Chapter 282: Chapter 282 - Total Domination
Four major martial arts dynasties dominated Chuzzle: the Maryann Family, Meyer Family, Morris Family, and Barry Family.
These powerful clans maintained a facade of harmony while secretly waging brutal territorial wars behind closed doors.
Every smaller family in Chuzzle had to pay tribute to these titans regularly.
The annual herb harvests they collected were staggering.
——
My eyes turned icy as I whispered, "Time for you to settle your debts."
I lowered my gaze to the Divine Medicine clutched in my palm.
Rather than rushing into alchemy, I tucked the medicine into my bracelet since the refinement would demand considerable time.
Besides, I felt unsatisfied with my current power level.
High-grade Pills demanded substantial strength to create successfully.
So I decided to reach the Monastic Stage first, then use these herbs later.
Once I achieved that, I could attempt crafting a Divine Rank Pill.
——
The following morning arrived.
The Four Great Families gathered at the Schroeder estate before dawn.
Inside a garden pavilion, everyone sipped drinks and made small talk, appearing relaxed.
"Mr. Raymond, why did you summon us?" Curtis Maryann from the Maryann Family inquired.
Conrad Schroeder shook his head. "I have no idea."
"Hmph, earning the title King of Chuzzle at such a young age must feel nice." Someone from the Morris Family sneered mockingly.
Conrad shot him a look. "Mr. Raymond earned those credentials, and others gave him that title voluntarily."
——
I approached from the distance as they spoke.
When they spotted me, everyone rose and offered their greetings.
I gave a slight nod, accepting their courtesy.
I entered the pavilion, selected a chair, and settled down. Then I studied the faces before me.
"Mr. Raymond, how can we assist you?" Jaelen Watts from the Maryann Family asked.
I took a sip of water, surveyed everyone present, and cut straight to business. "I want your submission."
Shocked gasps rippled through the group!
Jaelen shot to his feet in fury. "Submit to you? Our Four Great Families have ruled Chuzzle for decades and never bowed to anyone!"
"Exactly, even when the Schroeder Family was at its peak, we never surrendered."
I glanced at them casually. "That’s because I wasn’t here yet. Now that I am, you will submit."
"Starting today, each of you will deliver a fifty-year-old herb to me monthly."
My commanding tone immediately sparked anger among the crowd.
Jaelen glared at me coldly. "Mr. Raymond, this is nothing but theft and extortion! How can you call this fair?"
I responded with indifference. "You’re absolutely right. But from what I understand, various martial arts families in Chuzzle also pay tribute to you annually, correct? Even herb merchants must sell to you at reduced prices. Aren’t you robbing them too?"
"That’s their obligation," Jaelen snorted.
Donnie Barry from the Barry Family added coolly, "It’s simply survival of the fittest. They’re weak, so they deserve to be exploited."
Hearing this, I couldn’t suppress a sneer. "Exactly, but in my view, what makes you any different?"
"You crush others, so I can crush you just the same."
At these words, all four could no longer contain themselves!
They pounded their fists on the table and roared angrily, "Mason Raymond, you’ve crossed the line! Though our Four Families aren’t top-tier, we won’t tolerate your insults!"
Jaelen said icily, "Apologies, but we reject your demand."
I stared at everyone coldly. "You think I’m negotiating with you? I’m giving you notice."
"Today, you have two options: submit or die right here."
Their expressions shifted dramatically, while Jaelen marched toward me shouting, "Mason Raymond, you’re going too far!"
I immediately swung my hand and struck Jaelen across the face!
With a sharp "crack," Jaelen flew backward, coughing up blood!
"You’ll agree whether you want to or not," I said coldly.
Seeing Jaelen’s crumpled form, the others’ faces darkened.
"Mr. Raymond, could you give us time to think this over?" Donnie Barry asked through gritted teeth.
"No." I remained absolutely uncompromising, offering them zero opportunities.
"Hah, Mason Raymond, do you realize our Morris Family was once a prestigious noble house in the River North Region?" Archie Morris suddenly spoke up.
"So?" I raised an eyebrow.
Archie said lightly, "Lainey Kessler from River North was a friend of our Morris Family, and my son Joel Morris was considered a prodigy equal to him!"
"Well, Lainey once begged for his life at my feet," I said indifferently.
Archie burst into laughter upon hearing this. "Ridiculous! Lainey is a genius from the River North Region—how could he possibly beg you for mercy?"
"I can confirm what Mr. Raymond said," Conrad Schroeder declared seriously.
Archie cursed, "Conrad, you’re just conspiring with this Mason—do you expect me to believe your lies?"
Conrad’s face turned frigid, and he suddenly lunged forward, seizing Archie’s throat!
"Who gave you permission to yell in my presence?" Conrad said coldly.
As he tightened his grip, Archie’s face flushed red!
"Conrad... I... go to hell!" Archie managed to force out these words through clenched teeth.
"Seeking death!" Conrad abruptly increased his pressure, and Archie’s neck snapped instantly!
Everyone present went pale with terror.
"I’m giving you one minute to decide," I said calmly.
After exchanging nervous glances, Jaelen gritted his teeth. "Mr. Raymond, I... I’m willing to submit!"
I nodded with satisfaction and asked, "What about the rest of you?"
The remaining members quickly agreed, "We’re willing to submit too!"
I nodded approvingly, rose slowly, and swept my gaze across them. "I won’t take your herbs for free."
After saying this, I reached out, revealing three Foundation Establishment Pills in my palm.
"This pill is called the Foundation Establishment Pill. After consuming it, your strength will increase by one minor stage." I flicked my fingers, sending the three pills into the others’ hands.
Upon receiving the pills, everyone bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Mr. Raymond!"
I glanced at them. "I expect you to deliver the herbs to me tomorrow."
After leaving these instructions, I prepared to depart.
"The King of Chuzzle certainly lives up to his domineering reputation."
At that moment, a voice drifted from nearby.
I turned around and saw an elderly man approaching slowly, hands clasped behind his back.
