Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren)

Andrew shook his head and mocked, "Christina, I swear, you're getting dumber by the day. But then again, this isn't surprising. Everyone from the Stevens family is the same—I've gotten used to it."

Aspen let out a cold laugh before turning toward the curtain with a respectful tone. "Master Shiloh, it's been a long time since we last met. But please be careful— both sides here are dangerous. One is the Wellers, a family with no morals, full of filth and deceit.

"The other is the Rhodes-and this Michael is a known arsonist. He's just as rotten as Harvey, nothing but trash."

She cast a frosty glare at Andrew, adding, "And as for Andrew, you must be especially wary of his smooth-talking ways-don't let him fool you.

"He's a manipulative fraud. In Jayrodale, he's infamous for being a gold-digger. First, he climbed his way up by leeching off Christina, then he latched onto Lauren Rhodes and Francesca Aicker like a parasite.

"In short, he's not only a scumbag, but he's also dangerously ambitious. Whatever reason he has for seeking you out-it can't be good."

Michael's face burned with rage. "Aspen, are you out of your damn mind? We're all here trying to invite Master Shiloh down the mountain-why the hell are you making this personal?"

Aspen scoffed. "Master Shiloh is someone I deeply respect. She was once an honored guest of the Stevens family back in Bridgefields, and now that she's residing in Jayrodale, I won't let scum like you deceive her!"

Andrew let out a laugh. "So all this nonsense was just to suck up to her? But Aspen, Master Shiloh is a woman of great wisdom-do you really think she won't see through your little act? Kissing up to her while stepping on us? You're underestimating her intelligence."

Aspen's expression twisted, clearly frustrated at being called out. She quickly turned back to the curtain. "Master Shiloh, I swear, I wasn't trying to put others down to elevate myself! Everything I said was the truth!"

Harvey snorted. "Master Shiloh, don't believe a word Aspen says-she's a compulsive liar. No, let me

rephrase every lie she told about et

me was nonsense. But when it comes to Andrew and Michael, have to admit, she was spot on. These two are absolute bastards!"

Michael immediately shot back, "Master Shiloh, here's the truth-the Wellers and the Stevens are the real scumbags here! Harvey is nothing but a depraved beast. And Aspen? Please she's no better. I heard she let Rodney Sanford from Madblade

Martial Academy feel badblade

over!" noveldrama

up all

Aspen's face turned red with fury as her darkest past was dragged into the open.

Christina quickly stepped in. "Aspen, calm down! We're here to invite Master Shiloh, not start a fight. Show some respect!"

Andrew found the entire situation ridiculous. Three different families, all pointing fingers at each other, exposing scandals, and tearing each other apart. It was nothing but a pack of rabid dogs biting at one another.

Meanwhile, behind the curtain, Shiloh remained completely silent, likely enjoying the spectacle. Finally, once the argument settled, a soft voice drifted from behind the veil.

She said, "I understand the reason for your visit. Holistic wellness and traditional medicine are sacred knowledge, passed down through generations. They are meant to bring health and wisdom to all people.

"Spreading this knowledge to the world has always been my dream. If you wish for me to join you, it's not impossible-but I must see a true display of sincerity.

"But if your only goal is to use me for personal gain, to chase profit and fame, then I'm afraid none of you will earn my support."