THIRD PERSON'S POV
"The presidency of Mr. Salvador has been announced. While many celebrate, others, like the family of the former president, are contesting the transition," Jarvis announced, flipping the newspaper to the next page. "There's also rampant monopoly among tycoons, threatening more bankruptcies."
"Sugar has become scarce and exorbitantly priced. Many bakeries and confectioneries have shut down," Zeke added to Jarvis's report.
"Those tycoons are tipping the scales," Ice leaned forward, reaching for the papers in Jarvis's hand. "Mr. Hwang? The Chinese tycoon behind the sugar shortage?"
"Based on my sources, he struck a deal with sugar suppliers to monopolize the market, offering double the usual payment," Jarvis confirmed.
"The suppliers, unaware of the consequences, agreed to Mr. Hwang's terms. The inflated prices are crippling," Nathan interjected. "To restore supply, we'll need to outbid Hwang by more than triple."
After their recovery, the thirteen masks were finally restored to pristine condition, belying the recent chaos.
"Why negotiate when we can eliminate him?" Sky suggested.
"AGREE!" Jared stood up, enthusiastically supporting Sky's idea.
"Kill? Are we becoming like Demon?" Ice frowned. He disliked the notion of killing, mindful of the lives lost already. He didn't want others to endure what he had: the pain of losing loved ones.
"If we don't act, where will we find such a large sum of money?" Cyrus argued, aligning with the proposal to eliminate Hwang.
All eyes turned to Zeke.
"It doesn't matter the cost. Tomorrow, I'll negotiate with suppliers and exceed what Hwang is paying. If we don't intervene, poverty will consume the country," Zeke, the wealthiest among them, resolved to solve the crisis. Who else but fellow tycoons could challenge the likes of Hwang?
"Sky, any updates on Mr. Salvador? The former president's family seems persistent," Ice changed the subject. Knowing Salvador's origins assured them of his alliance.
"He's been secretive, but I think he's managing," Sky replied cautiously.
"Having him as president is advantageous. He's on our side," Joshua affirmed confidently.
The assumption that Salvador, Sky's father, supported their cause bolstered their confidence. Sky, though on the inside, wondered if his father concealed something from him. His sudden entry into politics hinted at coercion.
"Speaking of which, what's the situation in the city captured by the White Monarchy?" Kevin inquired. "My Underling reported hostages and armed forces surrounding the area."
"Plus, Demon's influence in the Underground is expanding," Joshua lamented.
As Demon's territory grew, the dominion of the four Rulers dwindled.
"Is she winning?"
"No, not yet," Ice responded to Stanley's query, rising to move to the sofa. Seating himself, he crossed his legs. "Next, we target Viper."
