Chapter 96: All At Once

The silence in Rosemoon Pavilion was deafening. Even the low murmurs and watchful eyes that had followed Daniel and Lucas seemed to vanish, replaced by a stunned stillness.

Mateo put down his wine glass so gently that it barely made a sound. The amusement that had previously danced in his eyes was replaced by a chilling glint.

"Own a faction? Do you have any idea what you're asking for, DK? The underworld has its own rules, its own hierarchies. You don't just 'own' a faction. You earn it." He said, his voice deep.

"I understand. I'm prepared to earn it. I have the resources, the connections, and more importantly, the reason." Daniel said, his voice steady despite the tremor in his heart. "

He met Mateo's gaze head-on, his eyes reflecting a steely resolve.

Siren remained silent, but a flicker of curiosity played in her eyes. Clearly, even she was surprised by Daniel's brazen request.