Chapter 286: Chapter 286 - Strategic Interview
Upon hearing Victor Green’s words, the female reporter’s face flushed bright red instantly.
I was inside the room, unsure whether to laugh or cry at the situation.
I gestured with my hand and said, "Allow her to enter."
The female reporter rushed into the room quickly, hurried up to me, and pleaded, "Would you accept my interview?"
I said with reluctance, "I’ve already given you an answer once. Do you expect me to repeat it?"
At these words, the female reporter dabbed at her eyes and feigned crying, "I fought so hard for this position, and if I fail to secure the interview, I’ll lose my job."
"How is that my concern?" I raised my eyebrows.
"Are you trying to guilt-trip me? Sorry, but I’m not bound by moral obligations."
The female reporter found herself at a loss for words, completely unsure how to respond.
"Mr. Raymond, I’m begging you, please assist me," the female reporter whispered softly.
"If you say yes, I’ll do whatever it takes!"
Before I could respond, Victor Green beside me narrowed his eyes and asked, "Is that so?"
The female reporter shot a glare at Victor Green and snapped, "You’re not the one I’m trying to interview. This doesn’t concern you!"
Following this outburst, she turned to me with a pitiful expression.
I rubbed my chin thoughtfully; I could see that the female reporter wouldn’t leave today without my consent.
However, I couldn’t reveal details about my confrontation with Master Brynlee.
Master Brynlee had intentionally held back his power, and I would certainly lose in a genuine battle.
After considering for a moment, I said, "I cannot discuss that topic with you."
"Oh, please say yes," the female reporter clutched my arm and shook it persistently.
I spoke seriously, "However, I can offer you one interview opportunity, with me choosing the subject matter."
"What?" The female reporter looked puzzled.
"But... my superiors specifically requested an interview about your showdown with Master Brynlee..." The female reporter said with some hesitation.
I chuckled, "Don’t worry, I’ll provide you with an interview worth having."
The female reporter didn’t fully grasp my meaning, but her eyes still sparkled with anticipation.
A thought struck me; a story involving the Johansson family and its implications would be far more valuable than a story about sparring with Master Brynlee.
So, driven by curiosity, the female reporter commenced her interview.
A video camera was positioned in the room, and she directed the microphone toward me.
"Should we begin?" I asked.
The female reporter nodded eagerly and said, "We’re already recording."
I cleared my throat toward the camera, then spoke deliberately, "I am Mason Raymond. Recently, I made an arrangement with Vance Johansson, the heir of the Johansson family."
At this revelation, the female reporter’s expression shifted slightly.
I went on, "He has persistently desired my wife and attempted to intimidate me using his family’s aristocratic influence. But through my continuous opposition, he ultimately met defeat."
"Simultaneously, Vance and I established our initial agreement."
"I’ll travel to Capital City within six months, ask for Miss Mabel Sean’s hand in marriage, and face Vance in open combat. Should I emerge victorious, he must abandon his pursuit of my wife, Mabel, and bow three times before me, addressing me as his grandfather."
These statements were never uttered by Vance. I fabricated them entirely.
Not only was the female reporter astonished, but even Victor Green nearby had his eyes wide with shock.
"What happens if you’re defeated?" the female reporter inquired.
I responded indifferently, "Defeat isn’t possible. I’ll eliminate Vance as easily as crushing an insect!"
I paused momentarily, then added, "Let’s also allow public oversight to ensure Vance doesn’t become frightened of losing and attempt to have me assassinated beforehand."
The interview concluded at this point.
The female reporter was thrilled!
"Mr. Raymond, this story is absolutely sensational!" The female reporter exclaimed with enthusiasm.
"Thank you tremendously! When I return with this, my supervisors will surely be pleased. I might even receive a promotion and salary increase!"
I smiled slightly, "Incidentally, as media professionals, you understand how to craft compelling headlines, correct?"
The female reporter looked bewildered and asked, "What do you mean?"
I stroked my chin and suggested, "The headline could read...this represents a clash between common people and aristocracy, and also a revolt against tyranny!"
"Whether victory or defeat awaits, everyone should watch closely."
After hearing my words, the female reporter couldn’t help but give a thumbs up, "Mr. Raymond, you’re truly brilliant! It’s such a waste that you’re not working as an editor!"
My proposed title effectively elevated my standing.
I positioned myself as a champion battling against aristocratic families, while casting the Johansson family as ruthless capitalists.
Having grown up in poverty, I understood clearly the depth of countless people’s resentment toward capital, which matched my own feelings.
Therefore, once this story aired, it would certainly capture widespread attention and possibly earn approval.
"Mr. Raymond, I’m unsure how to express my gratitude. Perhaps... I could buy you dinner?" the female reporter offered.
"Dinner isn’t necessary. It’s really nothing," I waved dismissively.
The female reporter considered this, then extended a business card to me, "How about this - if you ever visit River North, call me. I’ll properly thank you then!"
"What kind of thanks?" Victor Green approached and asked suggestively.
"Be quiet!" The female reporter glared at Victor Green.
Subsequently, the female reporter said goodbye to me and departed.
I examined the business card and discovered this female reporter’s name: Katie Nick.
"Mr. Raymond, if you’re not interested, might I pursue her?" Victor Green rubbed his hands together eagerly.
I rolled my eyes, "If you want to chase women, do it yourself. She’s not property to be handed over."
After saying this, I ignored Victor Green and headed upstairs.
I was confident that this news would definitely create a sensation throughout the martial arts community.
——
The following day.
Dimitri Brynlee came to my house early in the morning.
I was prepared with a vehicle, ready to depart.
"Mr. Raymond, what’s our destination?" Victor Green asked as we entered the car.
"River North, Bergerac Province," I stated.
Victor Green’s eyes widened and he spoke in a frightened tone, "Mr. Raymond, isn’t that old man, Dimitri, located in Bergerac Province? If we go there, would he spare us?"
"Plus, I’ve criticized him online - that old fool definitely won’t forgive me!" Victor muttered anxiously.
I glanced at Dimitri Brynlee with an entertained expression.
