Chapter 2 - The Sky Shatters
The rhythmic thrum of rotors grew so violent that ripples formed across the surface of the estate's infinity pool. Powerful searchlights cut through the darkness, blinding Diego and Victoria as two massive black helicopters hovered directly above the manicured lawn. The immense downwash flattened the manicured hedges and sent outdoor patio chairs clattering across the marble floor.
"What is happening?!" Victoria screamed over the roar, clutching Diego's arm in panic. "Call security! Diego, call the guards right now!"
Diego fumbled with his smartphone, his fingers slick with pool spray, but the screen flickered out and died. "The signal is jammed! Everything is dead!"
A squad of heavily armored operatives in unmarked tactical gear fast-roped down onto the lawn with terrifying precision. Within seconds, the estate’s private security guards were subdued, disarmed, and forced face-down on the gravel without a single shot fired.
Through the chaos, a towering figure stepped out from the estate's main courtyard gates. Flanked by four men in tailored charcoal suits, an older gentleman walked with an effortless, regal authority. He wore a sharp black trench coat, silver hair combed back, and carried an antique cane capped in platinum. His jaw was set like carved granite, and his eyes burned with an icy fury that froze Diego where he stood.
"Arthur Sterling..." Diego whispered, his blood running cold. The name tasted like ash in his mouth.
Arthur Sterling was the elusive titan behind the Sterling Global Conglomerate—a man whose wealth could buy nations and whose influence operated far beyond the reach of the law.
Arthur didn’t spare Diego a glance. He walked straight toward Elena, kneeling unhesitatingly onto the puddle of cold water. He took off his heavy trench coat and gently wrapped it around her shivering shoulders.
"Forgive me, little bird," Arthur whispered, his voice trembling with rare, profound remorse. "Your father is twenty-five years late."
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Elena looked into the face of the most feared oligarch in the hemisphere, entirely stunned. "Father...?"
Arthur turned his gaze toward Diego, his expression hardening into pure venom. "Take my daughter and grandchild to the medical transport. As for these two... lock the gates. They have an appointment with ruin."
