Andrew's POV
Jeffrey was once an Alpha, but due to his overly aggressive nature and constant challenges to stronger Alphas, he ultimately encountered me. After losing to me, he was brought into my family and assigned to manage the underground fight arena and gambling operations under my command. Here, he showcased his talents to the fullest, successfully establishing the largest underground fight arena and gambling center in North Yeo City.
Jeffrey’s base is hidden deep within the New Moon Mountains on the outskirts of North Yeo City. The entrance is heavily guarded, with access granted only through specific appointments and stringent identity verification. To ensure that no unwelcome guests disturb the proceedings, everyone who comes here must undergo thorough screening and confirmation. Ultimately, only two types of people are allowed in: the privileged members of the werewolf families in the audience and the outlaws and those yearning for a fortune in the octagonal cage.
Once inside, the venue is cleverly divided into two main areas: the indoor section and the outdoor arena.
The indoor area primarily hosts exhibition matches and gambling events. Its layout closely mimics a city’s official boxing arena, with orderly spectator seats, meticulously arranged premium seats, and private boxes designed to ensure the best viewing angles for the audience. The interior decor is luxurious yet imposing, with deep red carpets on the floor and walls adorned with the wolf clan’s emblems and trophies from various seasons. The octagonal cage is specially constructed, with chains and fences designed to withstand the claws and teeth of werewolves.
The outdoor arena is enclosed by sturdy mixed-metal fencing, high enough to prevent contestants from escaping. The surrounding spectator seats overlook a large, rugged field covered in rough rocks and dirt, resembling a primitive Roman gladiatorial arena. This area is where thrill-seekers and gamblers come to engage in wild, brutal battles.
After a day filled with stressful meetings, I felt exhausted. As the leader of the Bennett family, the pressure of managing business affairs had long left my nerves on edge. Especially during this sensitive period, beyond my physiological needs, the violence of the fight arena had become a way to release my stress. Whenever I needed to unwind, the intense bouts at the arena always managed to divert my attention, allowing me to watch the blend of ferocity and strength from the spectator seats.
That evening, I arrived at Jeffrey’s underground fight arena, stepping into the dark realm concealed by the mountains. My attention was quickly drawn to the fight in the octagonal cage. The venue was dimly lit, with only the cage in the center bathed in intense light. Inside this confined space, the tearing of claws and the collision of fists were filled with brutal violence. At this moment, one fighter was dominating his opponent with overwhelming force, and the crowd in the stands cheered wildly as if this victory had given them immense satisfaction.
Amidst the surrounding clamor, I heard a few people praising this fighter, suggesting that he might be a contender for the season's championship and recommending betting on his victories in the future. Despite these comments echoing in my ears, I was not impressed by the fighter’s performance. His punches were too slow, and his power was far from adequate, failing to stir any excitement in me. I muttered disdainfully, "Baby."
After the match, I approached Jeffrey’s office with the purpose of my visit in mind. Walking through the dimly lit corridors, I reached the heavy door of Jeffrey’s office and pushed it open.
"Hey, Jeffrey, business at the fight arena is booming lately," I said as I pulled out a chair and sat down, feeling the atmosphere of the office was much calmer compared to the violence of the arena.
"Hey, Andrew, good evening! Indeed, we've recently signed some explosive werewolf fighters, and tickets for their matches are in high demand!" Jeffrey greeted me with a cheerful smile, then walked over to the fridge and turned around to ask, "Would you like something to drink?"
"I’ll have a glass of red wine, thank you!" I replied, removing my suit jacket, feeling the need to relax a bit. Jeffrey handed me the wine glass, and I took a sip, savoring the wine’s aroma and smoothness, which slightly eased my irritation.
"Is there anyone fighting in the outdoor arena tonight?" I asked, my eyes showing a hint of anticipation. The outdoor matches were often more primal and intense, exactly the kind of battle I craved.
"Nobody’s fighting in the outdoor arena tonight. Why, do you want to see it?" Jeffrey asked with a hint of curiosity.
"That’s a pity. We had a quarterly earnings meeting for the group this afternoon, and the reports from some department heads made me angry. If only they could make things as easy as you do," I said, loosening my tie and unbuttoning the top button of my shirt, trying to calm myself. "This wine is really good. I want to spar; see if you can find someone to practice with me."
Jeffrey chuckled and said, "I don’t understand your group’s business, but if I were you, I’d just let the underperforming employees go. Haha! You’re the most formidable fighter in the Bennett family; it wouldn’t be easy to find someone who could spar with you. Fighting with you could be quite the ordeal."
"I appreciate your straightforwardness, but business matters are not as simple as fighting. To replace a pawn, you first need to train a backup pawn," I quickly finished the wine, removed my vest, and unbuttoned two more shirt buttons. "From now on, you might want to manage your business with more strategic methods. But for now, hurry up and find someone who can spar with me. I’m willing to pay extra for his training fee."
"If you want, you can check out the matches outside or warm up at the training area. I’ll ask David if he can come. He’s the most successful fighter of last season, the reigning champion, and he’s mainly training this quarter to prepare for a big comeback next season. If he can’t come, I’ll spar with you myself. How does that sound?" Jeffrey suggested after a moment of thought.
"I like your plan. Don’t let me down. The speed of the punches outside is too slow and boring. I’ll go warm up first," I said, feeling a surge of excitement and anticipation.
"Don’t reveal my identity to the opponent," I added.
"I understand. Our relationship is indeed quite discreet," Jeffrey responded with a smile.
About 30 minutes later, David appeared. He was a towering figure, with a muscular build and a prominent scar on his face—a mark of his combat glory.
"Hey, boss, I heard you’re offering a high price for a sparring partner?" David greeted me with a slightly cocky tone, clearly confident in his abilities.
Although David’s attitude was somewhat arrogant, what I needed was his performance in the ring, not his demeanor. "What kind of match can you handle? Indoor or outdoor?" I asked directly after warming up, feeling a surge of excitement.
David smiled and replied, "That depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a real challenge, we can go straight to the outdoor arena for the toughest fight. If you’re just looking to vent, we can do it in the indoor octagon or the training area. I can adjust my strategy according to your needs."
"I’m looking for a genuine challenge, an opponent who can make me go all out," I said, releasing my Alpha pheromones and assertively adding, "So, let’s head to the outdoor arena. Before we start, I want you to use your full strength. Don’t disappoint me."
David nodded, sensing the pressure I exerted, and his smile gradually faded, becoming more serious and focused. "Understood, boss. I’ll give it my all."
After we reached an agreement, David and I headed to the outdoor arena. The sky above was clear, and the moonlight filtered through the clouds, casting a silver glow.
We quickly entered the combat zone. David charged at me with immense force, his muscles bulging with every step, and each punch carried a suffocating power, causing the air around his fists to warp. I moved with the agility of a cheetah, evading David’s attacks with incredible speed. After assessing David’s movements, I began to counterattack. My fists struck him with force, but he easily dodged and swiftly retaliated. His punches quickened, striking my side with lightning speed, causing my body to rock violently, though I didn’t fall.
"Interesting! I’ll get serious now," I said to David, quickly regaining my balance and letting out a roar, tightening my muscles and feeling my strength intensify.
"Great, show me some real power!" David roared back, equally excited.
We both revealed our claws, and David gradually felt my increasing attack power. Each strike’s speed and strength intensified, leaving blurred traces in the air. Despite this, he did not retreat but fought back with growing fervor.
In a powerful attack, David’s claws slashed across my chest. Seizing the opportunity, I used my speed to deliver a strong punch to his abdomen, forcing him to stagger back a few steps. Taking advantage of his retreat, I employed the Bennett family’s signature technique—Wave-like Subtle Steps. David couldn’t keep up with my movements and only saw my afterimages as I struck him several times. He had no chance to stabilize himself and was eventually brought down.
I positioned my claws against his neck and said, "You lost."
David wiped the sweat from his forehead, looking up at me with respect and determination in his eyes. "Yes, I lost. Your strength is truly impressive!"
"Being able to push me to use my ultimate technique means you’re quite formidable yourself, David. My goal of venting my frustration has been achieved, and Jeffrey will take care of your payment," I said, standing up. I left him and stood up. He then stood up as well and I patted him on the shoulder to show my approval and appreciation.
“Thanks, boss,” David responded in a tone that was no longer flippant, but sincere, with respect and admiration in his eyes.
"Your strength is truly impressive. I hope you can maintain this state. You might win the championship again next season," I encouraged him.
David nodded, indicating that he would continue to work hard.
After it was all over, I drove back to the villa feeling content.