Chapter 160 Tempting Conditions
As Ethan gazed at the black-clad figure. His hand remained poised in the air without any movement, he appeared as steady as a mountain.
In terms of sheer strength, Ethan knew he was no match for him.
The stark contrast in their power made Ethan's heart race with fear.
If the figure decided to attack, Ethan would be in grave danger.
Suddenly, the figure in black asked, "Hey, do you want to go back to the Wilson family?"
Ethan's eyes widened in suspicion as he questioned, "What do you mean?
“I asked, do you want to go back to the Wilson family and take your place as the heir? If you're on board, I can guarantee a smooth transition with the Elder Council and other family members," declared the black-clad figure.
His voice was harsh, yet filled with arrogance and confidence, as if he believed he held the power to reign over the entire Wilson family.
"I don't understand, aren't you working for that old guy Brady Wilson?" Ethan's face began to show uncertainty.
I'm Elmer, the leader of the Shadow Gang. You should know about the ties between the Shadow Gang and the Wilson family.
While the Wilson family has always supported us, that doesn't mean I answer to the Elder Council. The Shadow Gang's loyalty lies solely with the head of the Wilson family.
If it weren't for your father's passing, the position of family head would still be in limbo, rightfully belonging to him.
Among the three brothers, only your father possessed the qualities needed for the role," Elmer explained in a hushed and serious tone.
Ethan's heart raced as he asked with a grim expression, "My father? Do you know how he died?”
"I’ll tell you as long as you agree to come back and be the heir of the Wilson family. I don't know much about your father's death, but I believe I can help with your investigation," Elmer continued, enticing Ethan with seemingly tempting conditions.
“So, you want me to return as the heir of the Wilson family and then be under your control? The leader of the Shadow Gang sure has it all figured out! If I were of no use, you'd probably have me eliminated while you stand by and watch," Ethan scoffed.
"Is that a no?" Elmer's tone carried a hint of annoyance.
"If I reject you, are you going to kill me?" Ethan mocked dismissively.
“I, Elmer, always keep my promises. I won't harm you today, but I can't guarantee the same for next time! Kid, you've really impressed me. In a short span, you've shown tremendous growth. You are undoubtedly the top choice for the Wilson family! Take your time to consider my offer before dismissing it," Elmer's intimidating presence suddenly softened, indicating he may not have any immediate plans to harm Ethan.
Ethan let out a sigh of relief but became more confused.
He wondered if Elmer really supported him to take over the Wilson family.
“If you ever attempt to harm me in the future, you'll regret it!" Ethan stated calmly, neither accepting nor rejecting Elmer's offer.
He shouldn't cut ties with such a formidable enemy until he was strong enough to defend himself, regardless of the other party's motives.
“Good! I admire your resolve, just like your father! We will cross paths again, kid!" The man in black chuckled heartily before vanishing into the nearby forest without a trace.
“Is he gone? Ethan, are you alright?" It was at that moment that Sarah snapped back to reality, rushing forward to ensure Ethan was unharmed.
Despite injuring his hand in the previous altercation, Ethan's quick use of the ZF knack and Moon Bead allowed him to swiftly recover. Currently, there were no visible signs of any injuries.
"No worries, it was my fault, I'm sorry!" Ethan shook his head and looked at Sarah apologetically.
At this moment, a light cough came from the nearby woods. Ethan's nerves, which had just relaxed, tensed up again. However, after seeing who it was, he immediately relaxed.
"Ethan, what are you doing here?" It was Francis.
Ethan had never sparred with Francis before, so he was unsure of his strength. However, he recognized that Francis was undoubtedly a formidable adversary.
“If I hadn't intervened, do you think Elmer would have spared you?" It was evident that Francis had been watching closely for some time. It appeared he knew the reason behind Elmer's decision to let Ethan go earlier. Because Francis had been secretly safeguarding him.
"Thank you, Francis!" Ethan expressed his gratitude to Francis.
"You don't have to thank me. But I'm curious, aren't you tempted by the offer Elmer just made? Investigating your father's death, uncovering the truth behind the car accident, and gaining control of the Wilson family all seem like compelling options!" Francis inquired with curiosity.
"Do you think I should agree, Francis? I can't trust any member of the Wilson family at the moment. If what he said is accurate, why didn't he support me when I was removed from my position in the Wilson family and expelled from the Cloud Group by Brady? He only sees me as a means to an end. I have no desire to be manipulated by anyone," Ethan responded casually.
" Your logical thinking shows that your problem-solving approach is very rational, and it reassures me that my decision was the right one. Elmer is more complex than he seems. While he appears to be a member of the Wilson family following their commands, there are some relationships that are beyond our comprehension," Francis explained with a smile.
"Francis , do you know something?" Ethan frowned. It was evident from Francis's comments that he was privy to information about Elmer and the Wilson family that Ethan was not aware of.
"I may not know everything, but I know something about everything. However, it's pointless to say more now. You must follow your own path based on your own beliefs. As you mature, you will naturally have new experiences. In reality, some people think the so-called Four Great Families are insignificant," Francis imparted with a cryptic expression.
"You sounded so mysterious. But I don’t get anything. Forget that I asked. I came today to ask you other things. I am glad you are here so I don’t have to go up," Ethan muttered in frustration, then asked Sarah get in the car so he could have a private conversation with Francis.
Sarah got into the car as she was asked although she was curious.
"Is it about ZF knack’s problem?" Francis asked with a smile.
"Yup. I feel like I am slow. At this rate, when will I be able to master it? How long will it take me to master it? The ZF technique has seven levels, and I haven't even mastered the first one!" Ethan expressed his frustration.
"You seem to have misunderstood the way to practice the ZF knack. The development of the ZF knack is closely tied to the study of medical arts. Focusing solely on the ZF knack may leave you lacking in certain areas. Just like Yin and Yang Qi must achieve a balance for your ZF knack to advance!" Francis cautioned earnestly.
"I see. It seems that I have been neglecting the medical arts during my practice. That must be the reason why I am so slow!" Ethan nodded.
"Let me check your current level of cultivation, Ethan," Francis said, placing his hand on Ethan's shoulder and sending a warm energy into his body.
Ethan's body suddenly emitted a breath that seemed to repel Francis's own breath.