Ch. 2356..2360: The Secretly Rich Man Chapter 2356-2360
Chapter 2356
Gerald Crawford: The Secretly or invisible Rich Man Chapter 2356
Whatever the case was, the auction’s morning session soon ended and Gerald found himself walking out of the auction house with Aiden and Lucian…
Unbeknownst to the trio, however, a man wearing a suit was standing motionless in the middle of the leaving crowd, his eyes glued onto Gerald. Though several people scowled at him for blocking their way, the man paid them no heed. After a while, another man walked up to him, prompting the man to ask “…Is that Gerald?”
“ I believe so. Still, I’m baffled that he’s eligible to partake in the auction in the first place. Regardless, I have no clue who those two men by his side are…” replied the other man as he stared at Gerald’s back.
“Forget those two, our target is Gerald. To think that I’d be able to bump into him here, of all places… Even god is on my side!” said the man with an evil grin…
The man in question was none other than the grudgeful Will Crawford! As for the other man, he was Will’s confidant who went by Finch Crawford. Within the Crawford family, Finch was second only to Amare in terms of cultivation. Regardless, while Daryl was supposed to have attended the auction with Will, the old man fell sick, so Will brought his confidant along instead.
In truth, Will had initially been quite hesitant to attend the auction. However, now that he knew that Gerald was here, he couldn’t be happier. The fact that Daryl was so far away from him, only made things better. After all, no matter what he did here, that old man would never be able to find out now!
Even so, Will still knew he had to do things flawlessly. That way, if Daryl got suspicious and decided to make investigations of his own, he would remain clueless for life!
Regardless, upon seeing that Gerald had almost disappeared into the crowd, Finch hurriedly asked,“ When shall we do the deed, brother Will?”
“There’s no hurry. Let me do some investigating first,” replied Will who already felt that Gerald’s fate was sealed the second Will saw him on the island. It was only a matter of time before Gerald would finally die…!
Upon hearing that, Finch simply said, “ Understood.”
“Good. Now return and get some rest. I want you to start keeping an eye on Gerald once noon comes. We need to find out where he’s staying. Remember, the auction ends the day after tomorrow, so we’ll need to get rid of him within the next two days,” ordered Will as he rubbed his hands together, a sinister smirk on his face…
Still, even if Gerald had seen Will, he wouldn’t have recognized him. After all, he had never met the youth before! Whatever the case was, since Gerald found the morning session rather boring, Gerald decided to spend the rest of his afternoon in his room…
Throughout the afternoon, Gerald laid on his bed, thinking about Walter’s words. If Gerald agreed to save that man’s daughter, that would also mean that he had to be unfaithful to Mila.
While he certainly didn’t like the idea of doing so, Gerald remembered how serious Walter had been last night. Since he was currently deep in the
Zeman family’s territory, if he continued refusing to save Walter’s daughter, Gerald could very easily lose his life. With that in mind, regardless of what he chose to do, he would still receive the short end of
the stick…
Not wanting to overthink things, Gerald decided not to make a choice for the time being and simply see how things went first. He also needed to delay Walter as long as possible. Gerald, for one, believed that there had to be other ways to cure the cold poison… While this was happening, Will and Finch themselves were looking rather flustered…
Chapter 2357
Gerald Crawford: The Secretly or invisible Rich Man Chapter 2357
After all, they had been looking for Gerald—at the auction house—all afternoon to no avail. As a result, Will was anxious out of his mind. Had Gerald seen them and left the island in a hurry…? However, after giving it some thought, Will remembered that Gerald had never met him or Finch before. With that in mind, Gerald wouldn’t have had a reason to flee in the first place!
Understanding that, Will—who had now collected his thoughts again—scanned the area one final time to ensure that Gerald wasn’t there before whispering to Finch, “…Let’s search again later. If you manage to spot him, make sure to never let him out of your sight, understand?”
“…But… What if we’re discovered in the process?” asked Finch.
“Look, when else are we going to be able to get rid of him? Remember, though the patriarch said that he wanted to kill Gerald, he didn’t do the deed even when he received two clear chances to kill him before! What more, he’s only sent me to investigate that boy’s cultivation level! Never to kill! With that said, only a fool would continue believing Daryl’s words! Letting Gerald escape will only bring more trouble in the end!” scoffed Will with a snort, his hatred toward Gerald already beyond words.
Will, for one, knew that until Gerald was dead, he would remain uneasy. After all, even if he did attain the position as the patriarch’s successor, Daryl could easily replace him with Gerald if that old man really wanted to.
With that in mind, the sooner he got rid of Gerald, the better his chances of being able to retain his position as the patriarch’s successor. Gerald was literally the only thing in his way since Will knew for a
fact that nobody else in his family was as capable as he was. Then again, the majority of the Crawfords were already supporting him.
Will’s train of thought was cut short when Finch rather hesitantly asked, “…Um… can I ask a sensitive question, brother Will…?”
“Just say it!” grumbled the impatient Will, now thoroughly pissed after thinking so much about Gerald. Truth be told, he would’ve already exploded in rage if there weren’t other families present.
“…Well… What should we do if the patriarch finds out about all this…? After all, he’s already said that nobody’s allowed to meddle with this matter. With that said, if we’re found out, we’ll most definitely be punished…” muttered Finch, sounding rather worried.
After all, although Will was Daryl’s confidant and also the successor of the Crawford family, Finch still had to prioritize Daryl’s commands. It didn’t help that anyone who defied Daryl never met a good end. Finch, for one, had already witnessed a few of the punishments, and each of them was equally terrifying…
“As I’ve said, as long as we do the deed flawlessly and neither of us says a word about it, there’s no way he could know!” grumbled Will. Daryl was the last person he wanted to think of at the moment. After all, despite Daryl’s promise to make him the family’s successor, he still treated Gerald so well! It was truly enraging!
Honestly, he was now wishing for Daryl’s sudden death so that he could finally take his rightful place as the new patriarch! If that scenario came to be, then his first order would be to have Gerald killed at all costs! No longer would that boy cause him any more trouble in the future…!
“…But…” muttered Finch, clearly still worried. Doing all this perfectly was easier said than done. If they ended up getting found, they’d surely land in a world of trouble… It didn’t help that Gerald was the
patriarch’s biological grandson. What’s more, nobody could tell what the patriarch was thinking!
Regardless, Will simply retorted, “No buts. If you’re that scared, then feel free to leave now!”
Upon hearing that, Finch clenched his fists before eventually declaring, “…I’m not…! ” Pleased to hear that, Will then ordered, “Good. Now hurry off and remember to tell me where Gerald’s staying the second you find out.”
Chapter 2358
Gerald Crawford: The Secretly or invisible Rich Man Chapter 2358
Honestly, if Finch had chosen to return earlier, Will would’ve tried to kill him one way or another. After all, what good was a man who couldn’t even follow simple commands? What’s more, Finch already knew too much. If he didn’t get rid of him quickly, it could cause him problems later down the line.
Either way, after Finch left, Will heaved a deep sigh. He really needed to kill Gerald this time… No longer would that b*stard continue threatening his position…!
Fast forward to evening, a few Zeman clansmen went looking for Gerald again. Upon seeing him sitting alone in the living room, they were prompted to say, “Ah, there you are, Mr. Gerald. Our patriarch has invited you over for dinner.”
After nodding in response, Gerald got to his feet before following them out. Just as he was leaving his room, however, he bumped into Lucian and Aiden. After telling them he was heading out for a bit, Gerald then followed the Zemans downstairs.
Watching as Gerald walked off, Lucian was prompted to mutter, “I wonder if he knows any other people here…”
“I wonder as well. It’s been quite a while since I’ve last met him, so I’m not too sure of what connections he now has…” replied Aiden with a shrug.
“Whatever the case is, let’s just have a simple dinner. I’m sure chaos will ensue the second it gets dark enough outside…” muttered Lucian as he closed the door and windows, remembering that it was around this time when the two families had gotten into their fight the day before.
Regardless, just as Gerald was leaving the building—with the Zeman disciples—, he was seen by Finch who just so happened to be passing by on his way to dinner.
Finch himself had been searching all afternoon for Gerald to no avail. With that in mind, he was understandably tired, and he was planning to head straight to bed after his meal. Naturally, he immediately did a double-take when he saw Gerald.
Once he confirmed that it really was the boy, Finch quickly gave Will a call before reporting, “B- brother Will! I saw Gerald leaving a wooden building! He’s currently heading north with two other men!”
“Well, what are you waiting for? Hurry and catch up to him! If you lose him this time, don’ t you even dare think about returning to Yearning Island! ” growled Will, prompting Finch to helplessly hang up before starting to tail the trio…
Naturally, Gerald had no idea that he was being followed. After all, he was busy wondering what Walter would say to him tonight, and what he should do if Walter continued pursuing the matter regarding his daughter…
To Gerald’s surprise, however, the second Walter— who was sitting alone in the room—saw him, the middle -aged man instantly greeted, “Gerald! My good friend! Come, sit!”
Though Gerald knew that Walter was only being this friendly because he needed Gerald’s help, he couldn’t help but feel slightly embarrassed. After all, the middle-aged man sounded so genuine.
Regardless, Gerald quickly replied, “…Um… I really shouldn’t be eating here all the time…”
“Why shouldn’t you? You’ re our family’s savior! Honestly, feel free to stay here if you so wish!” declared Walter with a hearty laugh.
“…That… isn’t necessary…” muttered Gerald in a slightly helpless tone. The way Walter said it, it was almost as though Gerald had already agreed to help Mia expel her cold poison… Then again, there was
nothing he could do about it. After all, Walter’s cultivation was much higher than his. With that in mind, If Gerald straight out refused, then there was a chance that he wouldn’t even be able to leave this place…
Gerald’s train of thought was cut short when Walter patted his thigh before adding, “Speaking of which, if there are any auction items you want, just tell me! I’ll give it to you as a gift!”
Upon hearing that, Gerald instantly exclaimed,“ There really is no need for that…!”
If he accepted it, then he would have no way to back out of this…!
Despite Gerald’s refusal, Walter simply ignored the boy as he turned to look at the door before shouting, “Yaacob! Go get the auction item list for Gerald to have a look!”
Chapter 2359
Gerald Crawford: The Secretly or invisible Rich Man Chapter 2359
Shortly after, Walter received a small booklet from Yaacob. Following that, Walter handed it to Gerald before saying, “If you see anything you’re interested in, just say the word!”
“Again, I really don’t need anything! If I’m truly interested in something, I’ll bid for it myself!
Besides, obtaining auction items this way is clearly against the rules!” exclaimed Gerald as he waved his hands in refusal.
Rather than being angered, Walter simply crossed his arms with a laugh as he said, “ It’s good to see that you’re full of principle ! On a more serious note
… Have you given my daughter’s illness enough thought? Know that as long as you cure Mia’s cold poison, I promise to grant you any wish! ”
Before Gerald could even answer, Third elder rushed into the room while shouting, “Patriarch! Someone’s just attempted to barge in!”
Frowning slightly upon hearing that, Walter momentarily glanced at Gerald before asking,“ Hmm? Who would even dare to do such a thing? Could the person have stumbled upon this place by accident like Gerald?”
“Negative. While Gerald had only wandered close to the forcefield around Mount Nimbus, this man was different. He came here with a clear target in mind ” muttered Third elder as he shook his head. Had
that man simply stumbled across this place by mistake, Third elder would’ve just driven him away instead of reporting all this to the patriarch!
“Oh? Interesting… Since he’s daring enough to come here, I’d like to see who he is!” replied Walter as he burst out laughing. Turning to look at Gerald, he then added, “Care to join me, Gerald?”
After Gerald nodded, the duo then followed Third elder out. Soon enough, they arrived at the room where the intruder was being held…
Upon entering, the two were greeted by the sight of a man firmly tied to a chair with thick ropes, a number of disciples actively standing guard around him. Naturally, the intruder was none other than Finch!
Finch himself had no idea what this place was. He had simply gotten here after tailing Gerald and the Zeman disciples. Unfortunately for him, he got caught as he was trying to eavesdrop on Gerald’s conversation. Whatever the case was, upon looking up, Finch was immediately greeted by the sight of Gerald and Walter staring right at him!
Walking up to Finch, Walter then glared condescendingly at him before saying, “You’re younger than I expected. Tell me, should I call you brave or arrogant?”
“P-please sir… I accidentally stumbled into this place… With that said, please let me off…”
muttered Finch in a helpless tone. Had he known that this would happen, he wouldn’t have followed Gerald here…!
“Let you go? Tell me who you are first, as well as what you’re really after, then we talk. Also, the elder on guard told me that you came straight for this place, so only an idiot would believe that you ‘ accidentally’ stumbled all the way here, ” scoffed Walter as he gestured for his disciples to fall back.
“I—I… I really did just come across this place by accident…!” whimpered Finch who didn’t dare expose who he really was. After all, if he did, Gerald would definitely kill him…! Who knows, if he kept his mouth zipped, he could possibly get freed in the end…
“Make me repeat myself and you’ll be dead in a minute, ” snarled the increasingly impatient Walter as he immediately exuded immense murderous intent…!
Chapter 2360
Gerald Crawford: The Secretly or invisible Rich Man Chapter 2360
Upon hearing that, one of Walter’s disciples immediately took a step forward.
Now terrified out of his mind, Finch—who could sense how serious these people were about murdering him—immediately yelled, “W-wait…! ”
After gesturing for his disciple to stop, Walter then stared Finch straight in the eye before asking in a calm, but stern tone, “Again, I ask. Who are you, and who has your back? Why didn’t you just return to rest after today’s auction ended? Just so you know, my family’s the organizer of this auction! ”
Gulping in response, Finch glanced at Gerald before sighing. He had no choice but to state the truth… Shaking his head, Finch then explained, “I… I’m from the Crawford family… I came here to spy on Gerald…”
“…Oh? You’re a Crawford? Do you know him, Gerald?” asked Walter as he turned to look at the boy.
Gerald himself already had his fists clenched as he narrowed his eyes at Finch while growling, “The cultivating Crawford family, I presume?”
After seeing Finch nod, the confused Walter couldn’t help but ask, “…Hmm? What’s going on here? Is he not your family member?”
Momentarily remaining silent, Gerald eventually turned to face Walter before placing his palm against his fist as he requested, “…Before that, could you spare his life for now? Maybe keep him here in the meantime…?”
“That’s certainly arrangeable,” replied Walter, prompting both Gerald and Finch to heave sighs of relief…
After exiting the room, Walter—who could sense Gerald’s unease—signaled his disciples to leave them be for now. Following that, Walter took a slow stroll on the shore —behind his home —together with Gerald…
It was a brief silence later when Walter turned to look at Gerald—who was very obviously upset— before asking, “My friend, do you have any grudges against the cultivating Crawford family…?”
“…Well, there’s no point hiding all this anymore… You see, the cultivating Crawford family was established by my grandfather…” muttered Gerald, not wanting to keep it a secret anymore.
Gerald, for one, knew that Walter wouldn’t suddenly decide to kill him since he still possessed the Herculean Primordial Spirit. What more, Walter could very well end up helping him! However, should that happen, then he would truly have no choice but to copulate with Walter’s daughter…
Though he knew that, Finch’s sudden appearance had made Gerald’s mind more muddled than he’d like to admit…
“…I see. Then… Isn’t that man part of your family?” asked the confused Walter.
“Far from it,” replied Gerald with a long sigh before starting to explain all about Daryl. In the process, Gerald also admitted that he had only approached Mount Nimbus in the first place to learn about its secrets due to how similar it was—in terms of being able to disappear and reappear—to Yearning Island.
Throughout Gerald’s explanation, Walter kept nodding as his frown slowly deepened. To think that this young man had been carrying such heavy responsibility in the past few years…
By the time Gerald was done, Walter slipped his hands into his pockets before saying, “…Now I know the whole story… Yearning Island, was it? I truly believe that that island Coating atop the Northbay Sea functions the same as this one, as in, there’s a giant forcefield around it, thus allowing it to be invisible from the outside… With that said, I have reason to believe that your grandfather’s cultivation level is on par with mine. Still, I’ve never heard of the cultivating Crawfords before, so I can’t help you information- wise…”
“But… if you haven’t even heard of the cultivating Crawfords before, how did they get invited to the auction…?” asked Gerald.
“Well, just because I haven’t heard about them doesn’t mean that the same applies to the rest of my family. In case you weren’t aware, those on the island are just a small part of my family. With that said, I normally don’t care about the auction too much. I’m only here due to the fact that I was told that the bearer of the Herculean Primordial Spirit was here,” explained Walter with a smile as he looked at the vast ocean…
“I see…” replied Gerald as he nodded.
After lighting a cigarette and handing one to Gerald, Walter took a moment before saying.
Since Yearning Island is most probably surrounded by a forcefield like Greendrake Island, it won’t be
easy for you to get there… How’s this? I’ll inform my family’s elders to tell you all they know about the cultivating Crawfords.”
“I appreciate it. Still, there’s one other thing that I can’t quite understand,” muttered Gerald as he held onto his cigarette.
“That being?” asked Walter with a slightly raised brow.
“Well… since Yearning Island was already able to vanish at will thousands of years ago, does that mean that those from the Seadom tribe were cultivators…? Or perhaps they used some other method to make the island vanish…” muttered Gerald, a frown on his face.
“Unfortunately, I’m not too sure about that, ” replied Walter as he shook his head.
“Whatever the case is, my parents and sister are still being held hostage there… I won’t stop till I’ve saved them…!” growled Gerald as he clenched his fists tightly.
“…Once you find the island, tell me and I’ll lead some of my family’s seniors over to help you save your family. How’s that sound?” asked Walter as he placed a hand on Gerald’s shoulder.
“While I appreciate the kind offer, I wish to save my loved ones with my own strength. Besides, I don’t think it’s good to keep relying on others,” replied Gerald as he shook his head.
Admiring Gerald’s determination, Walter nodded as he asked, “I see. Speaking of which, what do you plan to do with the man we caught?”
“If possible, keep him here for now… I think he’s just a regular member of the cultivating Crawfords. With that said, another Crawford must have brought him here,” replied Gerald after taking in a deep breath.
“…Oh? So you’re saying that the spy is working for another person who wishes to harm you?” deduced Walter.
After watching Gerald nod in agreement, Walter then turned around as he said, “I see. Then I’ll make sure to force every last bit of information out of him, then. Also, as an elder, I have some advice for you… Though it’s good to be kind, being too kind all the time could eventually spell trouble…”
Bowing toward Walter, Gerald simply replied, “I appreciate the advice, Uncle Zeman. I know what to do.”
“Good to hear. Well, feel free to return to your room now. As promised, I’ll let Finch live for now. The second I find someone attempting to look for that man, however, I’ll be sure to immediately inform you,” said Walter as he tossed his cigarette butt into a stone pestle.
”Thank you, Uncle Zeman,” replied Gerald with a bow before turning to leave…