Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 1840

Henry let out a dismissive snort and said with disdain, "Do you all really think my ambitions stop at replacing Jerome? No, you're dead wrong. I never cared about that Union Leader position. What I want is to defeat Jerome and eliminate the demons from my past!"

Back in the day, Henry, brash and overconfident, once challenged Jerome. As expected, he lost. Even now, with his martial strength nearing perfection and his power unmatched, Jerome remained the thorn in his side.

The others exchanged knowing glances, finally understanding what was really driving Henry.

Scarlett's eyes lit up with bold ambition, and she could not help asking, "Mr. Fischer, since you have no interest in the Union Leader seat… May I recommend myself for the position?"

Henry smirked. "Ms. Driscoll, did you forget you're a woman? I know you've always had a big appetite, Scarlett. You treat Mr. Driscoll Senior like he's already in your pocket. And you've always seen yourself as the queen bee over someone like Joe, a golden boy in his own right.

"Ambition's fine for a woman, but you need the strength to back it up. Forgive my bluntness, Ms. Driscoll, but you're simply not qualified to be Union Leader."

His words were razor-sharp and brutally direct.

Scarlett's face stiffened with frustration. "Maybe I'm not on your level yet, Mr. Fischer. But I've got the whole Driscoll family behind me. My martial strength is still growing, and I could one day break through to become a martial saint. Taking the top seat isn't impossible!"

Henry shook his head again. "Forget it. That role's out of your reach. Trust me… you're not built to handle that position."

Scarlett's pride snapped. "Why not? Can I at least know the reason?"

Henry sneered but did not respond. Before she could press further, the old woman from earlier suddenly struck out with her palm, aiming directly at Scarlett.

Scarlett jumped and shouted, "Madam Valencia, what the hell are you doing?"

Scarlett remained unharmed, but the couch beneath her shattered into pieces with a loud crack.

She stared in disbelief. "A force projection? You broke the furniture from a distance with a single palm! Madam Valencia, you've really reached martial saint level?"

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