Bane's voice became cold and sharp. "Time may have passed, but my hatred for Cedric hasn't diminished one bit. If anything, I crave even more to see him suffer—so much that death would feel like mercy.

"When I came to Jayrodale, I made a vow to strip away everything he has, piece by piece, just like peeling off his skin layer by layer. I want him to regret ever crossing me."

Simon's eyes burned with shared hatred. "Then let's join forces, Mr. Eslinger. Together, we'll crush the Aickers. Cedric didn't give me what I wanted, and Francesca wouldn't accept me. Fine—I'll make sure their entire family is destroyed!"

Bane nodded approvingly. "You've got potential. You're not quite on my level, but you'll do. I'm at a point in Jayrodale where I need capable people, and your timing couldn't be better."

Simon clenched his teeth. "Then let's stop wasting time! Once I recover, we'll storm The Aickers and take them down."

"Idiot!" Bane barked. "Do you really think they won't be on high al