Volume 6: The Flame of Vengeance
Synopsis: Jack has uncovered crucial evidence against Richard's criminal empire and begins meticulously planning his revenge. He not only intends to reclaim everything that was taken from him but also to send every betrayer and tormentor straight into hell.
Chapter 4: The Money Laundering Network
Under the Brooklyn Bridge, the abandoned warehouse loomed like a sleeping beast in the night. Its rusted metal door hung slightly open, revealing a dark, gaping entrance—an open maw waiting hungrily for its prey. Jack took a deep breath, tightened his grip on the iron bar in his hand, and stepped cautiously into the darkness.
The air was thick with decay—damp, cold, and unsettling. Rat-like squeaks echoed from unseen corners, adding an eerie edge to the atmosphere. Jack slowed his pace, scanning his surroundings carefully. Assured there was no immediate danger, he moved forward.
Inside, the space stretched wider than expected, supported by corroded steel beams that barely held up the sagging roof. A single bulb dangled from above, casting weak yellow light that flickered over the cracked floor.
A lone figure stood in the center of the room, back turned, unmoving—a silent statue cloaked in shadow. Dressed in a plain black coat and wearing a baseball cap, his face remained hidden beneath the brim.
"You must be Jack Morrison," the man said without turning, his voice low and raspy, as if it had crawled out from the depths of hell. "I see you still have the guts to come."
Jack narrowed his eyes, studying the stranger. Lean frame, sharp gaze, and an aura of danger radiated from him. "Who are you? Why did you bring me here?"
"That doesn't matter," the man replied coolly. He pulled out a USB drive and tossed it lightly in his hand. "What matters is this—it contains everything you need to know about Neptune International and Richard Carter's money laundering network."
Jack's breathing quickened. His eyes locked onto the small device, burning with desire. "What's the catch?" He knew better than to expect free gifts—there was always a price.
"Simple," the man said. "I want you to kill someone for me."
Jack's brows furrowed. Of all things, murder was what he least wanted to do. But he understood—taking down Richard would demand sacrifices. "Who?"
"A traitor." The man's voice darkened. "He betrayed me… and our organization. He deserves to die."
"I need time to think," Jack said. Killing wasn't something he could agree to lightly.
"You don't have time," the man snapped. "Richard Carter already has his eyes on you. He'll make his move soon. If you want to survive, you must decide now."
Jack fell silent. He knew the truth in those words. Richard wouldn't let him live. He had to act fast—to expose the crimes, to reclaim his life.
"Fine," Jack finally said. "Tell me who I need to eliminate."
A satisfied smirk crossed the man's lips. "Good. His name is Mark Li—one of Richard Carter's accountants. He holds key evidence in the laundering operation."
"Where is he now?" Jack asked.
"He's hiding in a car repair shop in Queens," the man replied. "I'll give you the exact address and a photo. Remember—make it clean. No traces left behind."
He handed Jack the USB drive and a printed photograph. "This is your payment. Once the job is done, I'll share more secrets about Richard Carter." Without another word, he turned and disappeared into the shadows.
Jack stood motionless, staring at the items in his hands. Conflict churned inside him—he had crossed a line, entered a world from which there was no return. But he had no choice. For vengeance. For survival. He would pay any cost.
He stepped outside into the biting wind, tucked the USB safely into his pocket, and clutched the photo tightly. His eyes hardened with resolve.
Meanwhile, in a luxurious Manhattan penthouse, Richard Carter stood before a panoramic window, gazing at the glittering city below.
In his hand, a glass of whiskey swirled slowly, reflecting the calculating gleam in his eyes.
"Jack Morrison," he murmured, "do you really believe you can defeat me? You're naïve. I will make you pay. I will make you regret ever being born."
He placed the glass down and picked up the phone. Dialing a number, he spoke with chilling calm. "Begin the operation. I want Jack Morrison erased from this world."
The next morning, Jack arrived at the auto repair shop in Queens. It was located on a remote street, surrounded by crumbling buildings and piles of trash.
He parked a short distance away and studied the premises. Workers in grease-stained uniforms bustled around—nothing seemed out of place.
Taking a breath, he approached the rusted metal door and pushed it open.
"Can I help you?" One of the mechanics, his face smeared with oil, stepped forward.
"I'm looking for Mark Li," Jack said.
The worker hesitated, a flicker of suspicion flashing in his eyes. "We don't have anyone by that name. You've got the wrong place."
Jack didn't respond. He pulled out the photo and handed it over. "Are you sure? This is Mark Li—Richard Carter's accountant."
The mechanic paled instantly. "I don't know anything. Just leave. Don't cause trouble."
Jack ignored him and walked further into the shop. He knew Mark Li was hiding here. He needed to find him—to complete the mission and unlock more secrets of Richard's laundering network.
Suddenly, a figure emerged from the shadows, blocking his path.
"Who are you? What do you want?" the man demanded warily.
Jack looked up. Before him stood a middle-aged man, eyes darting nervously, body trembling.
Jack recognized him immediately.
This was Mark Li.
"I've been looking for you," Jack said, his gaze sharp with intent.
Mark Li's face drained of color. He knew escape was impossible.
His fate had been sealed.