Michael nodded nervously. "Thank goodness we weren't there when Tracia died. Running into that grandmaster would've been bad news. Still, it's unfortunate Lauren escaped, but at least we have the herbs. When she returns to Rhodes Corporation empty-handed, she'll have to answer for this failure!"

At this thought, a hint of a smile returned to Michael's gloomy face. However, Bane suddenly tensed and shouted, "Who's there? Show yourself, or you'll regret it!"

Michael spun around in terror, stuttering, "B-Bane, you don't think it's that grandmaster coming for us?"

A broad-shouldered man emerged from the shadows, and Michael immediately relaxed. "Oh, it's just you, Jerry. You scared me half to death!"

Jerry scoffed. "Mr. Rhodes, if you want to take over Rhodes Corporation, you need to show more backbone. Being spooked by every little noise makes you look like a coward."

Michael laughed. "Relax, Jerry, it's just us three here. Even if I'm scared out of my wits, no one else will kno