The Cycle of Fate

Chapter 125: The Visitors

In the spa district, at 55 Chestnut Street, there stood a three-story gray-blue building with a garden, lawn, and stables.

In one corner, a band was playing soft melodies as the host of the evening, Bono Goodwill, held a glass of golden champagne, weaving through the various guests. He was discussing the aftermath of the chemical plant explosion, trying to distance himself from responsibility while aiming for a large payout from the insurance company.

At times, he conversed with the wives of government officials, at others, with his lawyer, or important figures involved in the matter.

He was like a born socialite, sharp-minded and energized in such gatherings. His deep blue, nearly black eyes, and thick brown mustache shimmered under the crystal chandeliers.

After spinning gracefully around an unimportant guest, Bono encountered Travis Everett, the superintendent of the Honest Market District.

Superintendent Everett, out of uniform, was dressed in a black suit with a blue bow tie, holding a glass of pale gold champagne.

"Superintendent Everett, you must protect me during these times," Bono Goodwill said with a smile. "Many people died in that explosion, and I fear their relatives might take drastic actions."

Everett adjusted his black-framed glasses and smiled. "This is the spa district. I have no control here. Besides, since I entered this street, I've noticed the frequency and intensity of police patrols are much higher than normal."

"And didn't you hire quite a few bodyguards yourself? What's there to worry about? The ones who died were just ordinary workers. They can't pose a threat to you, and besides, they don't even know where you live."

Everett half-joked, "But if those injured workers, unable to get compensation quickly, are forced to leave the hospital early, only to go home and wait for death—if they or their families find out you're still throwing parties, serving fine wine, and hiring a small symphony orchestra to entertain your guests, they just might lose their minds and drag you and your family into the abyss."

Bono Goodwill chuckled awkwardly. "The party has nothing to do with the compensation. I'm just following the law and waiting for the judgment. Superintendent Everett, if I return to the market district to handle matters, I hope you can assign a couple of officers to protect me."

Everett nodded lightly. "That's my duty, but I must remind you, several of my officers' families work at your chemical plant."

This was Everett pressuring Bono to speed up the compensation for his subordinates' families.

Bono Goodwill nodded silently, not too concerned.

The party continued into the early hours. Surrounded by lingering fragrances, Bono Goodwill hugged each of his three children before heading upstairs to the third floor.

As he loosened his tie, he entered the bedroom with his wife.

With a click, the gas wall lamp was lit, and Bono Goodwill's gaze froze.

Sitting in his favorite armchair was a man.

The man leaned forward slightly. Though seated, he exuded a dominating, oppressive presence.

He was dressed in a gray-blue worker's uniform, wearing a dark blue cap. His face was wrapped in layers of white bandages, leaving only his blue eyes and two nostrils exposed.

Bono Goodwill's heart jolted, and he was about to open his mouth to scream.

But before he could, a half-phantom crimson flame raven appeared behind the unexpected visitor, flying out in a flash, hitting Bono Goodwill right in the teeth.