Meanwhile…
"Aaaah… aaaah!"
Agonizing screams echoed inside a dimly lit room that resembled a prison cell.
A man sat strapped to an electric chair, battered and bruised, while merciless wires coiled around his body, charging him with painful currents.
A bulky, muscular man stood at the side, gripping a controller that sent the volts surging through the prisoner. He zapped him once more before dropping the device as the cell door creaked open.
Bright light spilled in from the passage as two men in black suits and shades entered, standing at attention.
Just then, a man entered behind them—dressed in a black suit with a half-unbuttoned shirt, his face concealed by a black-and-golden mask. A black whip, engraved with tulips on its holder, hung at his belt.
He walked in with commanding authority that suffocated the room.
The man in the electric chair shuddered in fear as the masked figure's looming presence overpowered his weak, battered body.
"Tsk…" the masked man snickered. "You look pitiful, my friend. Like a chicken being roasted alive on the grill." He paused, then began circling the prisoner slowly, like a predator studying its prey.
"It didn't have to come to this, you know. But alas… you just couldn't do the job right, could you?"
The man in the chair spat weakly, his voice hoarse with pain. "My… my liege… I didn't do anything… to her. My plan was flawless…" He gasped for breath. "We were going to shoot the dart with poison at the horse when she neared the finish line. There were safety pillows at the edges to break her fall if the horse threw her from the saddle. It… it was precise… I don't… I don't know who caused the accident before. I swear."
The masked man inhaled deeply, then exhaled with a loud sigh. Before crouching and facing the injured man square in the eyes. "But you still failed me anyway..." he whispered coldly before twisting his face in disgust.
He then stood up and turned to the two suited men. "Drag this piece of garbage out. Make him work in the labs."
The two nodded and moved toward the prisoner.
The man's eyes widened in horror. He knew exactly what "working in the labs" meant. A horrific fate few ever survived.
"Oh… please… please, no… no… please!" he cried as they untied him and began dragging him away. "No… no… no!!!"
His screams echoed down the hallway, fading into silence.
The masked man remained in the room with a bulky, muscular figure clad in a black overcoat that concealed his frame. Snake tattoos curled along the side of his bald head, his black eyes cold beneath pierced ears. A flat nose, plush lips, and thick black gloves completed his menacing look.
He looked every bit the villain.
"Did you find Viper?" asked the masked man.
"No, my liege," the bulky man replied in a deep, husky voice. "Reports say he was taken by the WFAB in Costa Rica. But my sources claim they don't have him. They say his car vanished into thin air—something even the WFAB cannot explain."
"Oh? Is that so?" the masked man asked.
"Yes, my liege," the bulky man confirmed.
"Mmm interesting" replied the masked man as he rubbed his fingers on the hilt of the whip. "Mmm… you also mentioned seeing a ghost, didn't you? What did you see?" He pressed.
The bulky man shifted uncomfortably before sighing. "I… I saw something at the old McCoy mansion, after investigating what you asked. I saw a man who looked like someone I once knew… Tap. Tap was shot dead by the WFAB when they caught him at Blake's mansion. But I swear I saw him that night.
It was raining, and he stood motionless in front of the mansion—hollow, lifeless, like a walking corpse. Then lightning struck him… I thought he was fried, but he was fine, unharmed, as if the lightning hadn't touched him. He turned and looked at me with eerie, glowing blue eyes.
The longer I stared, the colder I felt, as if my life was being iced away. Brrr…" He shuddered. "I tried to approach, but lightning flashed again—and he vanished into thin air."
The masked man went rigid at the explanation.
"So I was right…" he murmured under his breath. "The Chronalis is alive."
The masked man turned to the bulky figure. "Did you manage to get any news about the Black Tulip and Moon Rose?"
The bulky man shook his head. "No, my liege. Silver Snake is still sniffing at their trail. But I suspect he knows where they are—he just doesn't want to tell us."
"Mmm… no. He has no idea. Silver Snake doesn't have the balls to betray me—I made perfectly sure of that. We can deal with him later. I'm certain the Ogre will pick up their scent soon.
Right now, I want you to thoroughly investigate the accident at the derby. Someone dared to do the unimaginable—crossing me by trying to harm what's mine. And I want to know who it is. I want their pieces on my dinner table, grilled and marinated. Understand?"
"Yes, my liege," the bulky man replied.
Without waiting for a response, the masked man strode out of the room, leaving it in total silence.
The man waited until the Boss was out of sight before pulling out his phone and dialing a number.
"Hello."
"Tell the Dragonslayer he was right. The Boss is still hooked on that chick. Don't worry—I'll find the person responsible. But make another pig fall for it."
"Affirmative."
He smirked before cutting the call and pocketing the phone.
"Sorry, Boss," he whispered. "But this time, it's for your own good."
He moved to coil up the electric cables, dragging the chair into a corner, leaving the room in eerie silence.
.....
Meanwhile, two days later at Patricia's ranch…
The air was thick with pain and sorrow as a small group dressed in black gathered around a patch of daisies.
In silence, they watched Patricia, tears streaming down her face, as she scattered the ashes of her beloved horse, Liberty, across the field.
When the urn was empty, she closed it gently and placed it on the ground.
"Goodbye, Liberty," she whispered, her voice breaking. "I hope you find peace and happiness wherever you are now. I want you to know that I will always love you and remember you—my handsome, strong, and brave stallion. Say hi to Goldie for me. Tell her I'm sorry I couldn't protect you too. I hope she can forgive me. Rest in peace, my majestic white stallion."
Alisha stepped forward, wrapping her arms around Patricia from behind. "It's okay, Sis," she whispered softly. "Come on now… let's go home."
Patricia smiled weakly and nodded. Turning to the rest of the crowd, she managed a gentle smile. "Thank you."
Everyone hummed and nodded in quiet solidarity before Patricia gestured for them to walk back toward the house.
...
Later…
The air was lighter, filled with mixed feelings of joy and fading sorrow, as guests conversed and enjoyed pastries at the reception in Patricia's house.
Unlike the funeral, the crowd had grown—many had come to congratulate Patricia on her incredible and unexpected win at the derby.
"So… when is the crowning ceremony going to be held?" asked a man in a navy suit, standing near Patricia. She now wore a stunning black-and-gold figure-hugging dress that accentuated her curves. Her wavy black hair was neatly styled, and a glittering golden alice band adorned her crown.
Among the group was Mr. Saccoth, dressed in a white-and-black suit with a ribboned top hat covering his curly brown hair. His gloved hands gripped a black staff as he cleared his throat to reply.
"The crowning will take place in a week's time. It was meant to happen the day after Ms. Milton won the race, but given her tragedy, we've allowed her time to mourn before rejoicing."
"Mmm… of course," said the man in the navy suit. "Jethro was right—you truly raised the banner of our branch club higher. After eight years of failure, we're finally back at the big table. This is a reason to celebrate."
"Indeed! We thought all hope was lost, but you revived our spirits, Ms. Milton. Thank you. Now we stand a better chance of destroying those bloody VOCs. Pwee!" chimed another man in a cream-colored suit.
The group murmured in agreement, cursing the VOCs and praising Patricia.
Patricia smiled warmly. "Thank you, everyone. Thank you for your support. I truly thought I was going to be crushed out there… but I suppose championship racing really is in my blood. I performed better than expected."
"Better than expected?" a guest in a green suit chimed in. "Ms. Milton, you were incredible out there—better even than your father and anyone else. With you in our branch, we're destined for the big table for sure."
"Indeed! William and Rocksworth thought you were doomed to fail. I wonder how they're tasting defeat now. Rocksworth's chubby cheeks must have exploded by now," said the man in the navy suit, laughing as the others joined in.
"Well, that's their fault for being narcissistic bastards. They got what they deserved," Mr. Saccoth added sharply.
The group murmured in agreement.
"Say… where is Jethro? I haven't seen him since the marathon race. Is he that upset that Osborne won the title of regional derby council mayor instead of him? It was already set that he was doomed to fail. Osborne is a legend. Despite being related to the world's most powerful president, that old man has vigor—and he's loved by almost everyone," said the man in the cream-colored suit.
"Yes. Osborne is a legend of legends," Saccoth agreed. "He mentored your father, Patricia, and me. A man of untamed power and skill—an unmatched opponent. I also haven't heard from Jethro since the marathon. Hopefully the lad is fine. Knowing him, he's probably drowning his sorrows in a bottle of scotch."
The group chuckled.
"Of course. But since he's Ms. Milton's sponsor, we thought he'd at least be here," the man in the cream suit added.
"Well, he's probably waiting for the big crowning day to show off, like he always did. Typical Jethro—always loving the spotlight to pump his arrogant ego. I can't expect more from him," said the man in the navy suit.
Everyone hummed in agreement.
"But you are the lucky one, Philip—having Milton's golden charm. You're definitely heading for the big leagues. You must be proud," said the man in the green suit.
Philip turned to Patricia with warmth. "I am very proud indeed. And I know my good friend Simon would be even prouder of this moment. This child truly is a blessing."
Patricia felt tears sting her eyes. "Thank you, Uncle Philip. I am truly honored."
"Well, let's toast to future days of glory. To Ms. Milton—cheers!" declared the man in the navy suit.
"Cheers!" everyone echoed, raising their glasses in celebration.
Just then, Patricia noticed Alisha motioning her over.
"Mmm… excuse me," she murmured.
"Is everything okay?" Philip asked.
"Yes, everything is fine. I just need to discuss something with Alisha. I'll be right back." She turned to the group with a gentle smile. "Thank you all for the company. May I please be excused? Enjoy the party."
Setting her wine glass on the nearest table, Patricia walked toward Alisha.
"Yes, Ali, what's wrong?" she asked softly.
"We found out something. Come on," Alisha replied, leading Patricia toward the study.
When they entered the study, Davis, Zach, and Isaac were already inside.
"Hi, guys," Patricia greeted softly as Alisha closed the door.
"Were you followed?" Isaac asked, his voice frantic.
"What do you mean? Is everything okay?" Patricia's brow furrowed.
Everyone exchanged rigid looks. The atmosphere was heavy, frantic—something was wrong.
"Guys, what's going on? Please, tell me," Patricia pressed, her tone worried.
Alisha approached gently. "Patricia… don't freak out, okay? But we found out some things that will definitely change everything."
"What things? What is it?" Patricia asked, her voice trembling.
"Well, Sis…" Zach began carefully. "We just found out who was responsible for the accident that caused Liberty's demise."
Patricia sighed, almost dismissively. "That's it?"
Patricia exhaled and looked around at everyone.
"Oh, come on now. If you thought this news would make me blow up in fury or harm me, don't worry—I'm fine. Besides, we already know who the mastermind is. It's definitely that bloodthirsty monster, Montenegra. Don't worry—we'll make him and his minions pay. I swear, his time will come."
"Actually… no, Patricia," Zach said carefully. "The one responsible for the accident isn't Montenegra… or his minions this time."
Patricia arched a brow, confusion flickering across her face. "What do you mean? If not Montenegra, then who?"
A long silence filled the room.
"Answer me!" Patricia demanded, her voice sharp.
Alisha stepped forward, her tone heavy with sorrow. "It was Mr. Saccoth."
Patricia froze.
Her eyes widened in disbelief, as if she had misheard.
"What…" she whispered. "What did you just say?"
"Exactly as you heard, Sis," Zach said gravely. "Mr. Saccoth—Father's supposed best friend—is the one who tried to kill you on that track."
"What… what…" Patricia stammered.
She felt her ears ringing and her chest tightening as she looked at everyone in bewilderment. Their expressions said it all.
It was true.
The horrible thing she had just heard was true.
"No...no..it can't be..it just can't be..." she muttered.
Isaac took a deep breath before approaching her gently. "I'm sorry, Patricia. But its true. Congressman Philip Bedevere Saccoth is the one responsible for the accident. I couldn't believe it myself when Tess gave me results of the investigation. But he was the one who had access to Liberty other than you. And also it was traced that he...bought the psychorexia drug. Patricia...I'm sorry. We didn't want to tell you this soon but...."
Patricia raised her hand to silence him. She just couldn't take it anymore.
She felt as though burning coals were being poured into her chest, tightening until it was hard to breathe.
Why…
Why…
Her thoughts echoed, until finally she screamed aloud: "Why!!"
"For a very good reason, believe me."
A voice echoed through the room.
Everyone turned to see Congressman Saccoth standing in the doorway.
His expression stone cold. Something that they never witnessed on him before.
"You bastard! How dare you show your face!" Isaac roared, leaping toward Saccoth to strangle him.
But Philip raised a hand to stop him. "Calm down, lad. You won't get the answers you seek if you kill me now, will you?"
Isaac froze, chest heaving with rage, glaring from a distance.
Philip stepped into the room and closed the door behind him. He moved toward Patricia.
Isaac made to block him, but Davis held him back.
Patricia's eyes brimmed with disbelief and pain as Philip stood before her. She couldn't comprehend that the man she trusted most—the man she had come to see as a father—was the one responsible for her horrific tragedy.
She felt broken. Lost.
Why was life treating her so cruelly? Why did everyone she loved end up betraying her in the most painful ways? Why?
Her heart felt squeezed by unbearable pain. Yet she needed an answer.
She needed an answer.
She needed it now.
"Why…" she whispered, tears streaming down her cheeks.
Philip met her gaze, unflinching. "For the same reason you are still alive and breathing today—instead of dying on that track."
He stepped closer. "The same reason I committed the most cruel, unimaginable act of my life—sacrificing my best friend's child to prove it exists."
Patricia's eyes widened in disbelief. "What…? What did you want to prove existed..." she whispered.
Philip drew a deep breath, exhaling heavily. "A mystery. A cursed myth that history thought it had buried long ago the ancient world. An unquenchable obsession my family has chased for generations—searching, hunting, desperate to prove its existence. And all the while, it was right in front of me. Fooling me. Playing me."
He heaved as he moved closer, stopping just a breath away. Patricia flinched back in fear.
Philip's gaze locked onto hers with an intensity she had never felt before. Though he had tried to kill her, she sensed his fury wasn't truly aimed at her—it was aimed at something else. And she was right. His next words froze the blood in everyone's veins.
"You treated me like a fool. You knew I was searching, and you kept me running in circles. But you were here all along, weren't you… Chronalis!"
Patricia's eyes widened in shock. So did everyone else's.
Philip had just named her as the dreadful thing. He didn't flinch, didn't hesitate, as he stared directly at her.
The only word that rang in Patricia's mind—and in everyone else's—was:
WHAT!!!