Chapter 1196:
With Eshea’s defenses impenetrable, who else could Ares send — someone with the authority, status, and influence to negotiate directly with VS? Only Carter fit that role. The stakes extended far beyond the safety of his employer’s daughter. The outcome would ripple across the global arms market, shaping the future of the entire industry.
Frank, with no alternatives left, slumped forward. He told himself quietly that this was merely a business conflict. The strength drained from his body and he hit the floor.
News of Frank and Kristen’s disappearance — along with whispers implicating VS — reached Ares swiftly. Soon after, an encrypted line connected to Carter.
“I can’t do this,” Carter said, his voice heavy. “It’s a setup. VS is working with Eshea. Walking into this only plays into their hands.”
Ares replied calmly, “From what I know, VS answers to no one. He avoids politics. Kristen’s situation stems from old business grievances — nothing more.”
Carter stood firm. “The risk is too great.”
Ares let out a sharp laugh. “You think you understand VS better than I do? He stays out of Eshea’s affairs and couldn’t care less whether you’re a spy. He operates by his own code. We crossed a line, and now he’s settling the score. This is about us — not Eshea.”
Carter tried another angle. “Then send someone else.”
“Do you have any idea how tight the border security is right now?” Ares responded evenly. “No one but you can get through. You’re the only one I trust to negotiate with VS for Kristen’s release. Name his price — we’ll pay it.”
Kristen was his only child. Surrender was not an option.
Carter’s resistance, however, hinted at a growing independence — a desire to break free.
𝘛𝗁𝗲 𝗯e𝗌𝗍 𝗋е𝘢𝖽𝗂n𝗀 eх𝘱е𝗿𝗶е𝗻ce о𝗻 𝗀a𝘭n𝗼𝗏е𝘭ѕ.𝗰𝗼𝘮
“I hear your concerns, Carter,” Ares said, his words measured and deliberate over the secure channel. “The borders, Eshea’s watchful eyes, VS’s potential double game — I’m aware of all the dangers.” He paused, his voice turning cold. “But remember who put you where you are. Remember who you serve. If Kristen falls into Eshea’s hands, the reputation of Ares Global — my honor — will be shattered. This isn’t just about money. It strikes at the core of everything we’ve built.”
Carter’s pulse surged, his fingers clenching the device until his knuckles turned white. The threat was unmistakable.
“Sir, I’m not afraid to die,” Carter said carefully. “The problem is the complexity. VS’s cooperation with Eshea is real. If I show myself, my cover could blow instantly — years of deep-cover work, wasted. Ares Global would suffer massive losses here. Shouldn’t we consider other options?”
“Other options?” Ares cut in with a thin smile. “Carter, VS follows no rules but his own. I’ve never known him to fear anyone.” His voice dropped. “And let’s be honest — do you really believe you have a choice?”
A chill crept through Carter. “What do you mean?”
Ares spoke evenly, each word precise. “You think I’m unaware of your side ventures? The accounts in Sorevia, the Astralon Isles, those islands in Miraquay — I’ve noticed the activity. I don’t mind. I’m a generous man.”
Carter froze, his breath catching. Sweat dampened his clothes.
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