Darius' tone was calm, and he smiled. "I know my absence over the years has given everyone plenty of opportunities to show what they're made of. It's a good thing, and I don't want this sort of competition to stop. However, I hope everything we do is for the betterment of the Reid family."

He paused, then continued, "I believe you all understand what I mean. I've already experienced a number of unpleasant battles since my return to the Reid family…" Darius swept a cold gaze over the crowd and