[32] Proposition

The Sea Wolves' operations were booming. Every day, fifty ships, big and small, passed through the perilous waters of the Devil's Choke under our protection. Our team had expanded massively, now boasting over a thousand skilled mercenaries. Despite the costs of maintaining such a large force, the profits were staggering.

One evening, as Elara and I reviewed the day's accounts in our office, she looked up from the ledger with a mixture of disbelief and excitement. "Do you realize how much we're making? Even after paying off the mercenaries, we're each pocketing a million gold every single day."

I leaned back in my chair, trying to wrap my head around the numbers. "A million gold... That's insane. We went from scraping by to... this."

Elara nodded, her eyes sparkling with a hint of pride. "And guess what? Ten gold is equivalent to one USD. We're not just making a fortune in the game; we're sitting on a real-world gold mine."

I whistled softly, the reality of our success hitting me. "So, we're talking about a hundred thousand dollars a day, each. That's... fuck, that's more money than I ever imagined."

She leaned forward, her expression serious. "We need to be smart about this, Wang. This kind of money can change everything – not just in the game, but in our real lives too. We've got to plan, invest, and maybe even think about life beyond 'Game of Kings.'"

I nodded, feeling a mix of exhilaration and a sense of responsibility. "You're right. This is bigger than just the game now. We've got to start thinking long-term, both in and out of 'Game of Kings.'"

Elara flipped through the ledger, her brows furrowed in thought. "We should start diversifying, maybe even set up some legitimate businesses in the game. Use our profits to build something lasting. And outside the game, well, we've got some serious financial planning to do."

"Yeah..." My mind trailed off at the possibilities.

***

The atmosphere was thick with tension as I entered Cassandra's private chambers. Her right-hand man had informed me she was waiting, and my apprehension grew with every step. The room was dimly lit, the only light emanating from a few strategically placed candles, casting shadows across Cassandra's face.

She sat regally, a glass of dark liquid in her hand. Noticing my hesitation, she offered me a drink, but I declined. "No, thank you. I prefer to keep a clear head."

Cassandra shrugged nonchalantly and downed the drink in one gulp. Setting the glass aside, she got straight to the point. "Our route is too successful. It's caught the envious eyes of the other Yonkos."

I leaned against a table, crossing my arms. "Getting them all on board would be a financial nightmare. It's not feasible, too many hands in the pot."

She nodded, her expression serious. "I'm less worried about sharing profits and more concerned about survival. They're planning a major attack against me. I can handle one, maybe two, but not all three."

I pondered for a moment before responding. "Then we don't let it come to that. We implement a divide and conquer strategy. Keep them at each other's throats instead of yours."

Cassandra's eye glinted with interest. "Go on."

"We spread rumors, misinformation. Pit them against each other. The Twins are already at odds; we just need to fan those flames. As for the others, we find their weak points, exploit their mistrust."

Cassandra leaned back, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "Clever. Keep my enemies busy fighting each other instead of me. But what's in it for you? Why help me to this extent?"

I met her gaze squarely. "Stability. Your territory is our primary route. If you go down, our operation takes a hit. It's in our best interest to keep you in power."

She nodded slowly, her expression unreadable. "Alright, we'll play it your way. But remember, I expect loyalty. You're useful, but don't ever make the mistake of thinking you're indispensable."

I didn't flinch at her warning. "Understood. We'll start working on the rumors. The Sea Wolves aren't just mercenaries; we're strategists. We'll keep you on top."

As I turned to leave, Cassandra's voice stopped me. "Wang, this game we're playing... it's dangerous. Don't forget that. You're playing with fire."

I paused, then replied without turning around, "I haven't forgotten. But sometimes, you need to play with fire to come out on top."

The meeting then taken an unexpected turn, the air in the room growing thick with tension as Cassandra's intentions became clear. Her foot casually brushed against my leg under the table, a deliberate and suggestive gesture.

Leaning forward, she made no effort to conceal her voluptuous figure, her low-cut attire showcasing her ample breasts. The dim candlelight cast a seductive glow over her features, her one visible eye holding a mischievous glint.

"So, tell me, do you have a girlfriend?" she asked, her voice low and husky.

I was taken aback by her forwardness, and my response came out more as a stutter. "No, no I don't."

She let out a soft chuckle, her foot continuing its slow, deliberate movements. "Interesting. I find you... quite cute. How about you become my boyfriend?"

Her proposition hit me like a ton of bricks. I hesitated, my mind racing. This was Cassandra, a powerful and dangerous player in 'Game of Kings.' The implications of her proposal were vast and potentially complicated.

Before I could formulate a response, she leaned in closer, closing the gap between us. In a swift, fluid motion, she pressed her lips against mine, engaging me in a deep, passionate kiss. Her boldness caught me completely off guard, my body freezing in surprise.

After a few intense seconds, she pulled away, leaving me flustered, my face burning with embarrassment. I struggled to regain my composure, my words tumbling out awkwardly. "I, uh, Cassandra, I mean, I don't think—"

She cut me off with a smirk, clearly amused by my discomfort. "Relax, it was just a kiss. But I meant what I said. Think about my offer."

Standing up, she gave me a final, lingering look. "You're dismissed for now. But remember, I get what I want. And right now, I want you."

As I stumbled out of her chambers, my mind was a whirlwind of confusion and disbelief.

Can't say I am uninterested...

Q: Would you date Cassandra?