Liam adjusted the cuff of his custom-fitted suit, the smooth fabric a stark contrast to the rough childhood he had endured. The invitation to the Opal Court lay in his inner pocket, but it was the diamond card that carried true power. The city was alive tonight, humming with anticipation as he stepped out of the luxury car Tielen had arranged.
The mansion before him was nothing short of a fortress—its towering iron gates flanked by men in crisp black suits, their earpieces buzzing with quiet commands. A long driveway led to the grand entrance, where valets attended to cars worth more than entire neighborhoods. Under the soft glow of golden chandeliers, the world's most influential figures gathered, each carrying a legacy built on power, deception, and wealth.
Liam strode forward, his sharp gaze catching the subtle glances thrown his way. He was an anomaly—too young to be part of their ranks, yet too composed to be dismissed.
"Invitation," a security officer stated, though his tone suggested he already knew who Liam was.
Liam didn't speak. He simply pulled out the diamond card and held it up. The guard's eyes widened slightly before he straightened, pressing a hidden button by the entrance. Without another word, the doors were opened for him.
Inside, the grandeur was overwhelming. Ornate columns stretched toward a ceiling painted with elaborate gold patterns. Crystal chandeliers bathed the ballroom in warm light, casting soft reflections on the polished marble floors. Waiters moved effortlessly through the crowd, carrying trays of champagne and delicate hors d'oeuvres. The guests, draped in designer suits and evening gowns, spoke in hushed tones—deals being made behind perfect smiles.
Liam knew this wasn't just a gathering—it was a battlefield, one fought with glances, words, and carefully placed betrayals.
A voice interrupted his thoughts. "Didn't expect to see a Montgomery here."
He turned to see a man around 45, sharp features carved with experience. Maximilian Cortland. His reputation preceded him—a strategist who had built his fortune through aggressive takeovers and silent eliminations. His calculating eyes studied Liam, searching for weaknesses.
Liam offered a polite smile. "The same could be said about a lot of people here."
Max smirked. "Fair enough." His gaze flickered to the card in Liam's pocket. "A Diamond Card… that explains the sudden interest in you."
Liam's grip tightened around his glass, but his expression remained neutral. "I assume that means people are watching."
Max chuckled. "Oh, they're watching, alright. Some with admiration, others with knives behind their backs."
Before Liam could respond, a woman's voice cut in. "Mr. Montgomery, it's a pleasure to finally meet you."
Turning, Liam found himself face to face with Seraphine Duval. At 38, she carried an air of effortless elegance, her dark emerald gown hugging her figure with precision. Her lips curved into a knowing smile, yet her gaze held a dangerous glint—one that spoke of ambition and control.
"I've heard a lot about you," she continued, swirling the wine in her glass. "You've been quite the topic of conversation lately."
Liam maintained his composure. "I hope it's been entertaining."
"Oh, more than that." She leaned in slightly, her perfume a subtle mix of jasmine and something darker, more intoxicating. "Some say you're here to claim what's yours. Others believe you'll be torn apart before you even get the chance."
Liam met her gaze, unwavering. "And what do you believe?"
Seraphine's smile deepened. "That depends on whether you're as dangerous as the rumors claim."
Before he could reply, the sound of a glass being tapped echoed through the ballroom. The crowd turned their attention to the elevated stage where an older gentleman stood, his presence commanding respect.
"Welcome," his voice carried through the room. "Tonight, we discuss the future."
Liam straightened, knowing that whatever happened next would set the course for everything to come.
Liam took a slow sip of his champagne, letting the bubbles fizz against his tongue while keeping his eyes locked on the stage. The man speaking was Vincent Lockwood, a name that carried weight in every industry from finance to underground dealings. His salt-and-pepper hair and measured gaze exuded authority—he was the kind of man who dictated power rather than chased it.
"Many of you know why we're here," Vincent continued, his deep voice steady. "The world is changing, and only those who adapt will remain standing."
A murmur rippled through the crowd. Deals were being tested, alliances questioned. Liam had studied this world from the shadows long before stepping into its light, and he knew the true battles were fought in moments like these—where words were sharper than knives, and silence spoke volumes.
Seraphine leaned closer, her breath warm against his ear. "This is where things get interesting," she whispered.
Liam didn't flinch. His expression remained unreadable, but inside, his mind was working at full speed. He wasn't here just to observe—he was here to take his first real step into a war that had been brewing for years.
Vincent continued, his gaze scanning the room. "Control is fragile, and tonight, we decide who holds the future."
Liam noticed how certain figures in the crowd exchanged glances—silent agreements, hidden fears. This wasn't just a gathering; it was the beginning of something bigger.
And then, Vincent's eyes landed on him.
Liam held his ground as the room's attention shifted toward him. He could feel the weight of a hundred gazes sizing him up, questioning his presence.
"You're young," Vincent said, a calculated pause following his words. "But so were the greats before they carved their names into history."
A slow smirk played on Liam's lips. "Then I suppose I'm in the right place."
The room reacted—a mixture of quiet amusement and intrigued silence. Vincent studied him for a moment longer before nodding.
"Very well." He gestured toward the main doors, where a man in a black suit entered, holding a velvet case. "Shall we begin?"
Liam knew this was it. The moment where the games truly started.
And he was ready.