Pudge caught the card midair, scanning it swiftly with his wristwatch. The transaction records flashed in front of him. After a moment's silence, he tucked the card away.
"This still doesn't explain your failure," he said flatly.
"Hey, come on, man. I thought we were sitting here as equals, playing nice," Director Aaron replied, a smile playing on his lips. But his words carried an undertone—Sure, you're the invincible God of Weapons, but here, I'm the Director. Not your servant, Dean Pudge.
Pudge's sharp eyes narrowed slightly, but he reined in his irritation. His next words were calmer, smoother.
"Then what happened to the remaining shares? I thought no one would pay any interest to that House."
"Right," Aaron replied with a faint smirk. "The way you tried to buy out House Drakon might have ignited a little spark—others suddenly found it worth investing in."
He took a sip of his tea, eyes never leaving Pudge's face.
