Chapter 71
On the velvet bed, sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows, illuminating the luxurious dark-gold curtains adorned with lace, which had already been pulled back. The room was opulent, designed for the enjoyment of the wealthy, but it now stood as a silent testament to the actions of one man.
Bardi slowly opened his eyes, his body half-bathed in sunlight. His skin absorbed the energy, stirring his cells awake. It felt like mint touched by morning dew—cool, refreshing, and invigorating. The sensation triggered his nerve centers, jolting him fully awake.
Rising from the goose-down bed, he pulled his arm free from beneath the neck of the woman lying beside him. He moved to the floor-to-ceiling window, completely bare, and pushed it open. A rush of fresh air mixed with dew-laden mist washed over his skin, cool and soothing. It carried the crispness of a summer morning, refreshing his entire body.
This house was the best in the suicide slum, situated near the former underground exchange. It was a relic of the rich and noble, who, even when passing through such desolate areas, demanded luxurious comfort. But now, it belonged to Bardi.
He turned back to glance at the bed.
The woman lying there was no longer alive. Her body, marked with bruises, bore the evidence of his touch.
Bardi's touch, gentle to him, was unbearable to ordinary humans. Yet, he didn't have a penchant for torture or abuse.
Last night had been a celebration with all 675 members of Barmulodi to mark their complete unification of the suicide slum. The woman had been a female assassin, attempting to kill him during the festivities, targeting him in his most relaxed state. He had slapped her unconscious with a single motion, the thirteenth assassination attempt since he took control of the ghetto.
The only difference this time was that it had been a female killer, unlike the previous twelve.
Bardi had used her to test his control over his abilities.
A few days ago, he had triggered his heat vision for the first time. Since then, he had been experimenting with the energy stored within his cells, striving for greater precision and efficiency in its use.
Though he had gained some control, he still wasn't satisfied.
"Clark could have children in the comics," Bardi murmured to himself, frowning as he stared at the corpse on the bed. "That means he could control himself down to the smallest detail. This level of precision… terrifying."
Clark's ability to wield his power without harm—to lift a cup, drink coffee, or touch someone without breaking them, was a mastery Bardi hadn't yet achieved. Such control over one's body was deeply unnerving to Bardi.
Was this level of control a result of natural growth and potential?
Or was it a product of something else? Kryptonite to weaken his power, perhaps? Or the genetic codex, designed to help Kryptonians master their bodies?
"Or was he simply born with that level of control?"
Bardi sighed, his frown deepening.
Last night, he hadn't engaged in any intimate acts. Had he done so, he would have killed the woman outright.
The assassin had died for a different reason. She had been well-prepared, her lower body was equipped with poison needles intended to incapacitate him. However, her plan had backfired. Bardi's steel-like body had shattered the needles upon contact, driving them into her instead.
The poison coursed through her body rapidly, and although she bit down on an antidote capsule hidden between her teeth, the antidote was ineffective against the deep penetration of the needles.
She struggled violently, but Bardi paid her no mind. He simply went to sleep. She didn't last long, dying soon after.
The cause of death? The poison needles embedded too deeply in her body.
Bardi shook his head, dismissing the thought. Turning back to the open window, his gaze fixed on the distant skyline of the metropolis. His enhanced vision allowed him to see far beyond the slums, into the heart of the central city.
High-rise buildings stretched upward, their glass surfaces gleaming under the morning sun. The city was alive with activity, people bustling through the streets, vehicles flowing endlessly, a vibrant scene of life and prosperity.
Slowly, Bardi retracted his vision, bringing his perspective back to the room. It felt as if he were pulling back on a train, returning to the view of an ordinary man.
He lifted his head, letting the sunlight warm his face. A small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.
"The real conquest begins now," he said softly.
At the same time, he had already deployed people to Nevada, monitoring the Kents and their farm.
A service bell rang. Bardi had called for the body to be removed.
Moments later, a beautiful woman entered the room. She carried his breakfast, her movements graceful, her expression resentful. Her eyes were filled with unspoken words, her displeasure evident.
Her expression practically screamed: Why won't you touch me?
She was the boss of the Rose Blood gang, a powerful woman who had survived the chaos of the suicide slum. Known for protecting the prostitutes under her, she was ruthless, cunning, and highly perceptive.
Bardi ignored her pointed gaze as he calmly dressed himself, her resentment palpable as she watched his every movement. Once dressed, he sat at the table and began eating his breakfast.
Her tone was laced with charm as she spoke, curling a strand of hair around her finger.
"Do you really plan to leave for the central city of the metropolis without me?" she asked, her voice dripping with seduction. "You're full of desires, I can satisfy all of them. No matter the position… no matter the posture."
For a man who could provide protection to her sisters, there was no rejection in her heart, only a desire to be closer.
"Not yet. You'd be shot to death."
Bardi's tone was calm as he took a bite of bacon, his demeanor as casual as if he were discussing the weather.
The glamorous woman crossed her arms beneath her chest, emphasizing her ample figure, and retorted angrily, "I've never heard of anything like that. What kind of excuse is 'shot to death'? I understand if you think I'm dirty."
Her tone carried a trace of bitterness, and her mature face darkened slightly.
Bardi didn't respond immediately. He paused, the knife and fork in his hands stalling mid-movement.
He sighed inwardly and, for a fleeting moment, thought of Jenny.
She should… still be alive.
The room fell into a brief silence.
After a few moments, Bardi's lips curved into a small smile, breaking the quiet. "You don't want your sisters to live their whole lives as prostitutes, do you? When I go to the Metropolis, I'll be setting up several companies, and I need you to be an excellent publicist."
His words were practical, but the smile he added at the end seemed to lighten the atmosphere.
Finally, he tacked on another line, one that made the mature woman's face light up with a pleased, knowing expression.
"I do like a uniformed temptation."
The woman let out a small snort, her sultry voice filled with bemusement. "Men will always be men."
Her figure, full and alluring, was as tempting as a ripe peach, exuding a charm that was difficult to ignore.
Bardi smiled faintly, recognizing her ambition and capability. He knew this woman would excel in the role he planned for her.
Since his unification of the suicide slum, he had smiled more often. Whether it was while bursting someone's head with a casual grin, standing in the sunlight, or looking down at his subordinates worshipping him as if he were a god, his smiles always carried a peculiar edge.
After finishing his breakfast, the woman spoke again, her tone a touch more serious. "Lionel Luthor's son wants to see you."
Bardi raised an eyebrow. He had never actively sought out Lex Luthor, nor had he given him any reason to reach out. He hadn't even considered taking action to bring the man into his fold. For now, Lex Luthor's influence and potential held little importance to Bardi.
In terms of intellect, Bardi's awakened Kryptonian mind far surpassed anything Lex could offer. His ability to calculate, strategize, and understand complex systems left even a genius like Lex trailing several steps behind. Whether in science or combat, Bardi had access to an endless wealth of Kryptonian technology to learn and utilize.
Someday, when he perfected his genetic structure, eliminating its flaws, he would become even more powerful. Lex Luthor was simply no threat to him.
Picking up a cup of hot cocoa, Bardi took a slow sip. The bitter-sweet aroma of the chocolate flowed down his throat, and he let himself savor the flavor. The sensation lingered on his tongue, and he closed his eyes momentarily in quiet enjoyment.
"Call him in."
Chapter 72
Lex Luthor stood uneasily in front of the door. Over the past few days, he had observed the changes in the suicide ghetto, the rules that had been implemented and the brutal, domineering reputation that surrounded Bardi.
Lex believed the time had come to change his destiny.
He wouldn't stay in the suicide slum forever. He despised this place, loathed it to his core. Even though Bardi had improved conditions and brought order, Lex felt no goodwill toward him or the slum.
He clutched the tape recorder hidden in the pocket of his black sweater, took a deep breath to calm his nerves, and opened the door to walk in.
As soon as he entered, the sunlight streaming through the room illuminated Bardi's figure. Half bathed in light, the other half shrouded in shadow, Bardi seemed both divine and demonic. The contrast of light and darkness gave him an otherworldly presence that made Lex's body stiffen involuntarily.
This was a murderer, a tyrant—a man who could easily kill anyone without a second thought. Yet, in the same breath, he was revered as a god by the people of the suicide slum. Bardi had used the chaos of the slum to elevate himself, commanding worship and adulation from those who feared him.
Lex shut the door and walked toward the sofa opposite Bardi. However, he didn't dare sit down. He had seen what happened to a gang member who casually sat in Bardi's presence, he was thrown dozens of meters and died on the spot.
Bardi demanded discipline. In front of him, everyone had to abide by the rules.
Bardi was the sole arbiter of those rules, he alone had the right to establish them or break them. No one else was allowed to act outside his authority.
Lex stood stiffly, his posture rigid, like a child who had been caught misbehaving. His head hung slightly, but he still stubbornly met Bardi's gaze.
At only thirteen years old, Lex was still just a boy.
Bardi downed the last of his hot cocoa in one gulp, savoring the rich, bittersweet flavor that lingered on his tongue. Setting the cup down, he glanced at Lex.
"Is something wrong?" he asked, his tone indifferent.
Lex took a deep breath. His stiff body trembled slightly. He knew that if he angered Bardi, he could be killed on the spot.
But according to his observations and psychological analysis of Bardi's behavior, he estimated there was a 90% chance his gamble would succeed.
Lex had done extensive preparation. He had studied Bardi's movements, demeanor, and tendencies, believing he had a grasp of the man's mindset.
Steadying his nerves, Lex gritted his teeth and said, "I want to join Barmulodi."
"Sure."
Bardi's response was immediate, and his tone was calm and casual. He didn't even hesitate to agree.
Putting down the empty cup, Bardi looked at the young Lex Luthor with a faint smile.
Lex froze in place.
It was that easy?
He had prepared countless arguments, detailed plans, and backup strategies to prove his value. He had even devised long-term strategies for managing the slum, expanding Barmulodi's influence, and eventually invading the Metropolis. He had thought through every way to demonstrate his intelligence and worth.
Yet, before he could say a word of it, Bardi had agreed.
Lex's lips moved as if to ask why, but in the end, he held back. He had achieved his goal, there was no need to question it further.
This was how a smart person acted.
Bardi's eyes gleamed with faint admiration as he spoke again, answering Lex's unasked question.
"The tape recorder in your pocket contains recordings of Barmulodi meetings," Bardi said casually. "Specifically, the one where we discussed the suicide of the slum police chief. Of course, the police chief has already been burned to ashes. It also contains evidence of the murder of thirty-six others."
Lex's body stiffened, his pupils shrinking in shock.
He had been found out.
"This was your way of showing your cleverness," Bardi continued, smiling faintly. "I appreciate that. But in case you're wondering, the incriminating documents you sent to the post office two hours ago, those have already been intercepted as well."
Lex's breath caught in his throat. His hands trembled, sweat dripping from his brow. He lowered his gaze, not daring to meet Bardi's eyes.
"Your plan was simple," Bardi said, his tone light but pointed. "If Barmulodi didn't accept you, you'd take the evidence to the upper-class families in the Metropolis, using it as your ticket out of the slum. Clever, really."
Lex's body began to shake uncontrollably, fear rising like a tide in his chest.
"And let's not forget the contingency plan you prepared," Bardi added. "You had a friend carry another set of documents out of the slum in case something went wrong. Don't worry—your friend is alive and well."
Bardi stood, his tall figure looming as he stepped closer to Lex. His presence was overwhelming, a flood of pressure that suffocated the boy.
Lex's legs felt like they were about to give out as Bardi's shoes came into view. His breath quickened, and he dared not lift his head.
Then, a hand clapped gently on his shoulder.
Lex flinched as if he had been struck.
"Do you think I'm just a brute with strength and no understanding of technology?" Bardi asked, his tone low and calm. "Is that why you wanted an escape route? To latch onto the upper class and make a name for yourself in the Metropolis?"
Lex Luthor pursed his lips tightly, his fearful eyes betraying the thoughts churning in his mind. He was smart enough to know that brute strength alone couldn't compete with the high technology of the future. The path forward required more than physical power, it required foresight, strategy, and development.
Bardi suddenly gave Lex a light push on the back, his smile unsettling yet casual.
"Go back and pack up. Today we're heading to the central city of the Metropolis. From now on, you're a member of Bamulodi."
Lex nodded, his steps trembling as he walked out the door. His breaths were heavy, and a bitter smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.
Every shred of his supposed bravery and wisdom had been stripped away in that room. He had been left exposed, his mind shaken and his body trembling uncontrollably. Even now, his legs wobbled beneath him as he walked.
Exiting the luxurious building, Lex stepped into the sunlight. He tilted his head up, letting the sun's rays hit his face. The light felt almost piercing, stinging his eyes, but it grounded him.
The discouragement and fear began to fade, replaced by something new, a fragile determination.
He stepped forward, the heaviness in his chest lifting slightly with each step.
Fear or trembling, it ends today. I am no longer a part of this place.
I… I got out of here!
--
Bardi stood at the floor-to-ceiling window, watching Lex leave. From the balcony, he observed as the boy exited the building.
When Lex stepped into the sunlight, his posture changed slightly. He straightened his spine, lifted his head, and walked forward with newfound resolve.
"Lex Luthor," Bardi murmured to himself.
Don't let me down.
A faint smile curled his lips as he continued watching Lex disappear into the distance.
I look forward to the moment when you betray me.
With that thought, Bardi turned away and summoned Mike.
"I'll be leaving the suicide slum today," he said, his tone decisive. "The rest is up to you."
Mike stood straight, awaiting orders.
"You'll lead the operation to destroy the Gambino Mafia," Bardi continued. "No cooperation. Use the fastest means possible to erode their territory and eliminate their influence."
"I'll be heading to the Metropolis to meet with the intergang alliances. A hundred talks, all focused on a single question, whether they'll surrender or not."
He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in.
"As for the 'family,' don't worry about them. I'll deal with that myself. Your priority is recruiting mercenaries to secure the suicide slum."
Chapter 73
(1/3)
Metropolis.
This was a true metropolis, with blooming flowers, towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and crowds of people flowing like endless tides.
The energy of the lively crowd radiated warmth, infusing the entire city with vitality.
This was not just a city—it was the city. Vibrant, full of life, and one of the world's greatest urban marvels.
Even begging here had an air of dignity compared to the despair of the suicide slum. Of course, there were no beggars on the streets, only street performers with violins, guitars, or saxophones. They added charm to the urban landscape, standing beside empty cases waiting to be filled with appreciation.
This was a city of art and technology.
The people here were cultured, polite, and charming, each brimming with confidence and talent.
Their voices carried conviction and eloquence.
It was hard not to be drawn to such a place.
Bardi stood by the window, gazing at the bustling streets of Metropolis below. A faint smirk tugged at the corner of his lips as he found himself amused by the scene.
This city was starkly different from Gotham. Where Gotham was dark and oppressive, Metropolis was bright and lively. They were polar opposites, almost as if the world were constantly caught in a tug-of-war between justice and evil, light and darkness, order and chaos.
Narrowing his eyes slightly, Bardi shifted his gaze to the blue sky above.
Behind him, Lex was deep in negotiation with a rotund man who had a ruddy face and an air of wealth. The man, Noy, was discussing the sale of his company, Noy Biotech.
The day before, Bardi had brought Lex Luthor to Metropolis, a world away from the dirty, chaotic streets of the suicide slum. The contrast couldn't have been more striking. Every corner of Metropolis was clean, orderly, and infused with culture and liveliness.
For Lex, the transition had been overwhelming. At just thirteen, he had stepped out of the hellish slum and into a new world, a place full of opportunities and possibilities. It left him excited, wide-eyed, and utterly fascinated.
They were staying in the Galaxy, a five-star hotel that towered above its surroundings, one of the most luxurious buildings in the area. From their high vantage point, they could see the city in all its glory. The previous night, Lex had stood by the window, trembling with excitement as he gazed at the blurred rainbow lights of the city, the endless streams of car headlights, and the glittering constellations of urban life. His eyes shone with ambition, and his body seemed to vibrate with the sheer thrill of being in this place.
This, Lex had thought, was where people were meant to live.
Bardi had silently observed the boy, noting the fire in his eyes and the way he barely suppressed his trembling. That radiance of ambition, it was exactly what Bardi had hoped to see.
The corner of Bardi's mouth curved into a subtle smile.
At the table, Lex sat across from Noy, the expensive steak in front of him untouched. It wasn't that he wasn't hungry, it was simply that the task at hand consumed him entirely.
This was the first task Bardi had entrusted to him, a business negotiation. The night before, Bardi had handed Lex a set of documents with a simple directive: make the deal.
Lex had spent the entire night poring over the information, his adrenaline keeping him awake and alert despite the exhaustion.
Failure wasn't an option. He couldn't return to the slum. He couldn't allow himself to fail.
This negotiation was a test, one that could shape his future in Bardi's eyes. Lex was determined to prove himself.
Noy, meanwhile, looked visibly dissatisfied. Cutting into his steak with exaggerated slowness, he chewed without a word, his face impatient as he glanced at the boy sitting across from him.
Finally, Noy turned to Bardi, who was still standing by the window, his shadow stretching long in the sunlight.
"Mr. Bardi," Noy began, his tone tinged with disdain, "it seems you're not taking this acquisition seriously. Sending a boy to negotiate on your behalf? It doesn't inspire much confidence."
Bardi didn't turn around. He tilted his head back slightly, letting the sunlight warm his face as he spoke.
"The boy represents me. Whatever price he decides, higher or lower than what I'd consider acceptable—I'll honor it. The decision is his."
Noy's eyes lit up with greed.
A child negotiating? This would be easy.
Dabbing the corner of his mouth with a white napkin, Noy forced a smile and looked at Lex with thinly veiled condescension.
"Well, in that case, let's settle this. Twelve million… no, let's say fifteen million dollars. That's a fair deal! After all, Noy Biotech is a leading biotechnology company."
Lex's expression didn't waver. His gaze remained locked on Noy, sharp and unwavering.
"A leading biotechnology company?" Lex replied evenly. "That might have been true fifteen years ago. Now it's on the verge of bankruptcy and can't even pay its employees' salaries."
Noy's smile froze.
This boy… was far more difficult than he'd anticipated.
"Well, that's a bit exaggerated," Noy said, his voice faltering slightly. "The company's profits may have dipped, but we're far from struggling."
Lex didn't blink. "Eight million dollars."
The room seemed to tense at those words.
Lex had spent the day researching Noy Biotech, as well as Noy himself. The man was flashy, appearing in numerous magazines and news articles, but Lex had picked up on subtle hints that his financial situation was dire.
The lack of jewelry or expensive watches, a stark contrast to his public persona spoke volumes.
Lex knew Noy was desperate.
"I can't accept that," Noy said, flustered. "Eight million? That's absurd!"
Lex leaned forward slightly, his voice calm but firm. "Your company owes seven million dollars to the bank and in unpaid wages. Taking over your company means starting with a massive debt."
He paused, letting the words sink in.
"But if you're willing to fill that hole yourself, we wouldn't mind paying fifteen million to acquire it."
Noy's lips trembled. He had no money to fill such a gap.
"The equipment—" Noy began, grasping at straws.
Before he could finish, Lex interrupted.
"The most valuable genome sequencers, biological safety cabinets, and transgenic electrophoresis equipment have been sold off by you to pay your debts," said Lex.
Noy stared at him in shock. "How do you know?"
"It was just speculation," Lex replied calmly, "but now you've confirmed it."
Noy's expression grew grim. He had been an incompetent man from the start, squandering the family business his father had left him over the past decade. Lately, his gambling habit had spiraled out of control. Out of desperation, he had sold the company to clear his mounting debts.
Every word Lex spoke hit like a dagger to his heart. After a brief but tense standoff, Noy found himself completely outmaneuvered by Lex's pressure and persuasion. Ultimately, under the guise of "reluctant" kindness, Lex convinced Noy to sell the company for $9.5 million.
Noy finally exhaled in relief, knowing his debts were now cleared.
After the deal was sealed, Noy even developed a surprisingly favorable impression of Lex, going so far as to claim they had become friends.
Standing by the window, Bardi took a sip of vodka, a faint smile tugging at his lips.
"Lex Luthor. A smart man. Not bad at all."
--
At the headquarters of the Hundred—a luxurious nightclub—gangsters and criminal figures milled about. In this era, it was common for criminal organizations to use nightclubs as their bases of operation. These venues not only served as their lairs but also catered to the wealthy and influential, offering pleasures far beyond the imagination of ordinary people.
Eldridge Whale, head of the Whale family, had received an invitation earlier that day. The infamous Bardi from the Suicide Slum had invited him to the Galaxy Hotel at seven o'clock the following evening to discuss control of the Metropolis underworld.
Eldridge's son, Tobias Whale, stood beside him. A towering figure with massive hands and a body resembling a mountain, Tobias had a rough, menacing face and pale skin so unnaturally white it seemed corpse-like. Though his features might suggest a dead man, his sheer size and presence radiated power and intimidation.
Tobias was not an ordinary man. Born with albinism, he was fundamentally different, stronger and more dangerous than most people. To those who knew him, he was practically a supernatural being with terrifying physical power.
"Father, are we going?" Tobias asked, his deep voice laced with anticipation. "I've heard rumors about Bardi. They say his body is invulnerable, his strength is monstrous, he can leap forty meters in a single bound, and he's strong enough to kick a helicopter out of the sky." A fierce, predatory light gleamed in Tobias's eyes.
Eldridge snorted in disdain. "It's nothing but theatrics, a made-up story to build a false legend. But I won't let him encroach on our territory in the Suicide Slum. That's our domain, and he's not qualified to take food from my table."
"And yet, you're not going to the meeting?" Tobias's tone grew colder.
"Why bother?" Eldridge said dismissively, tossing the invitation into the trash.
Tobias's eyes narrowed as his breath became slow and deliberate. Without warning, his pale, oversized hand shot out, grabbing his father by the neck. Eldridge's face twisted in shock and terror as Tobias effortlessly snapped his neck with a single, brutal motion.
"Father," Tobias said coldly, watching the lifeless body fall to the floor. "You're outdated. You don't understand what true power means. But I've seen it."
He bent down and retrieved the crumpled invitation from the trash, his eyes burning with ambition.
--
Elsewhere, in a luxurious villa, Mannheim, the leader of the Intergang, sat in thought. Squinting at the invitation Bardi had sent, he couldn't help but feel uneasy. Several assassins he had hired to eliminate Bardi had vanished without a trace.
The rumors were troubling. It was said Bardi possessed extraordinary strength, and his body was impervious to bullets.
After deliberating, Mannheim made his decision. He would not attend the meeting himself. Instead, he would send his son as his representative.
--
In a dimly lit conference room, a long, dark red rectangular table dominated the space. Seated around it were the wealthy elite, aristocrats, tycoons, and influential figures. None of them had fortunes below $100 million, as such meager wealth would not grant entry into this exclusive circle.
Had any reporters managed to sneak into the room, they would have recognized the faces of these individuals from the pages of Metropolis Magazine, where they were often hailed as industry leaders and titans of power.
Discussions filled the air, a blend of arrogance and pragmatism:
"The Suicide Slum is still in chaos?"
"My antiques are waiting to be shipped."
"The smuggling operations need stable routes."
"We need to restore order there."
"We can't allow the Suicide Slum to stabilize, it would ruin our operations."
"Pressure the police and the government. Have them send in the military to deal with these criminals."
"The assassin organization failed again. Five elite killers dead, and they still couldn't take down Bardi."
"What a joke. How can they call themselves assassins?"
At the head of the table sat Vincent Edge, one of the most powerful men in the room. He tapped his fingers lightly on the table, instantly silencing the chatter.
"We're not a gang," Vincent said evenly. "This is just a playground for us. Don't take it too seriously."
He paused for effect before continuing, "Since everyone's attention is focused on the Suicide Slum, we shouldn't overextend ourselves. There's no need to waste resources or attract unnecessary trouble."
"These bugs aren't worth our time."
He glanced around the table, his voice cold and authoritative. "I'll contact the League of Assassins and have them take out Bardi. It'll serve as a warning. Let the chaos in the Suicide Slum sort itself out over time."
The assembled figures nodded in agreement. For them, patience was a virtue. As members of the upper class, they had no desire to dirty their hands with the insignificant worms below.
Chapter 74
(2/3)
After acquiring Noy Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Bardi made sweeping changes, starting with renaming the company to Universe Biotechnology Co., Ltd.
He cleared all of the company's debts and paid the employees' back wages in full, spending a total of $7 million in the process. Following this, he granted an interview to the Daily Planet, took out advertisements in its pages, and even bought airtime for commercials across TV networks.
Bardi then moved to acquire equipment from several biotechnology companies, including some older cell reactors, electrophysiology instruments, patch clamps, brain stereotaxic instruments, slicers, live animal imaging systems, culture mediums, immunodiagnostic tests, antibodies, neural detection machines, petri dishes, sterilization buckets for pipettes, refrigerated centrifuges, incubators, electrophoresis tanks, microplate readers, PCR equipment, liquid nitrogen containers, and DNA sequencing gene analyzers, a comprehensive list of both new and outdated biological lab tools.
Lastly, Bardi took Lex Luthor along to purchase an enormous quantity of computer components, using up all the money he had earned from his takeover of the Suicide Slum.
"We're down to $12,000," Lex said, his young face pale with disbelief. "From $23 million, you've burned through it all in one day, and we're still $5 million in debt! The company was mortgaged right after you bought it!"
Lex's voice trembled. He had never seen so much money before, let alone owed so much. Watching the funds vanish like water slipping through his fingers, he could barely breathe. Although he believed that Bardi must have a plan for all these purchases, he still found himself overwhelmed by anxiety.
For the first time, Lex who had grown up in poverty felt a deep, painful attachment to money.
Bardi paused and studied him, clearly surprised. The sight of this future magnate, who would one day wield unimaginable wealth, reduced to such a state was… quite amusing.
He laughed heartily. "What are you so afraid of? In one week, the entire Metropolis will know about Universe Biotechnology Co., Ltd. They'll know my name, Bardi Barmulodi. And they'll willingly throw their money at us."
Lex muttered, still uneasy, "But… the heart disease medication, the diabetes treatment, and even sildenafil haven't undergone clinical testing yet. It's too soon to rely on them."
Out of all diseases, diabetes was the most expensive to manage in the U.S., and more importantly, it was a chronic condition. Although Bardi could develop a complete cure, he had no intention of doing so. Instead, he planned to produce fast-acting drugs while releasing second and third-generation medications over time, ensuring sustained profits.
He wasn't here to save the world. The heart disease treatment might save lives, but the primary purpose of these future special medications, which he was releasing early, was to make a fortune and establish his reputation.
As for Sildenafil—commonly known as Viagra—Bardi intended to market it as his way of "caring" for the health of American men. Its effects would be bold, powerful, and fierce.
Grinning, Bardi grabbed Lex by the head, ruffled his hair roughly, and held his neck in a playful grip. Standing in the sunlight, he beamed.
"We won't fail."
His smile widened as the sun cast its rays on him.
The world would become far more interesting with his presence.
--
Bardi took Lex back to the Galaxy Hotel. As they walked in, Lex felt his heart sink. The last $12,000 was being used to host a dinner for two underworld bosses. Over the coming week, Lex couldn't shake the dread that he might end up surviving on scraps, just like in the Suicide Slum, where moldy sweet potatoes had been his staple diet.
Lex had dreamed of leaving that wretched place to live in luxury, to eat and drink well, and to become a wealthy man. Now, all he felt was bitterness. Life felt utterly unfair under Bardi's leadership.
What made it worse was Bardi's decision to book the most extravagant rooftop banquet hall in the hotel. Lex's head spun, he couldn't see how their remaining funds would even cover the deposit, let alone the full cost.
"Boss, we don't have enough money!" Lex stammered, handing over the $10,000 deposit with shaking hands.
He swore to himself that if he had to wash dishes to pay the bill, he'd run out of the hotel first.
The way Bardi threw money around was reckless, and Lex felt as if he'd been stretched beyond his limits.
"Relax," Bardi said, his lips curving into a confident smirk. "By the end of tonight, someone will join me, handing over everything they have. If I'm lucky, I'll walk away with both gangs under my control."
Lex froze. Did the boss actually have a plan?
--
That evening, from the upper floors of the Galaxy Hotel, one could see half of Metropolis illuminated in all its grandeur. Standing on the balcony, overlooking the city through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, one might feel as though they were gazing down upon the world, ready to conquer it.
It was an intoxicating sight, full of ambition and boundless possibilities.
Tobias Whale arrived, his heavy steps echoing like thunder. He was a colossus of a man, standing nearly two meters tall, with a body that seemed carved from stone. His pale skin gave him an eerie, corpse-like appearance, and his ferocious eyes burned with intensity. A group of black-suited men followed behind him, their presence radiating murderous intent. They looked as though they had just come from a battlefield.
There was little small talk. Tobias got straight to the point, his deep voice rumbling. "What do I get out of this?"
"Return to normalcy. Power. Invulnerable strength," Bardi replied evenly.
When Bardi had sent the invitation to Tobias's father, he had also included a letter meant specifically for Tobias.
Bardi had spent time analyzing every top gang leader in Metropolis, meticulously gathering information. He had a habit of standing by the window, basking in the sunlight as he organized his thoughts. Only after fully preparing did he act, striking at the decisive moment.
From Lex's perspective, Bardi always seemed full of confidence, like a man who had already foreseen every outcome. His confidence appeared unshakable, and failure seemed to be an impossibility. But the truth was, Bardi's meticulous planning was what enabled his success.
Whether buying lab equipment or advertising on TV, Bardi had managed to negotiate everything at prices far below market value.
Though Lex had watched in horror as Bardi burned through their funds, he couldn't deny the shrewdness of his actions. Even if they resold some of the purchases, the profit would be three or four times the original cost.
Tobias's breathing grew heavier. He craved strength, but above all, he craved power.
"If you refuse," Bardi said, his voice cold and sharp, "you won't survive for two months. In a month, I'll start clearing out the entire Metropolis. The underground world will have only one ruler—me."
"I know that last night, the Gambino Mafia was also destroyed by your 'Barmulodi," Tobias said, his expression heavy. His eyes flickered with thought before he silently stepped behind Bardi.
Unless he was prepared to leave Metropolis entirely, Tobias knew that as long as Bardi made a move, there would be no other outcome but death. He understood his position clearly and chose to surrender.
Metropolis was vast, and it needed people to manage it. By submitting early, he could remain a boss, albeit with an emperor above him. Once he had the power he sought, betrayal and rebellion could be planned later. Such matters were routine to him.
"From today onwards, you're my boss," Tobias said as he stood behind Bardi, already assuming the role of a subordinate.
The men Tobias had brought with him were stunned. It was unbelievable to see their leader, the man who had killed his own father and risen to power as one of the 100 key figures in the organization, now bowing to someone else so easily.
Their shock was palpable, but they felt only panic, unable to react in any meaningful way.
Bardi smiled, sitting casually at the dining table. Turning to Lex, he shrugged and spread his hands. "See? Now we have the money to pay the bill."
Lex held his breath, wide-eyed. They had just gained control over a major figure in Metropolis, a man who ruled over one-fifth of the city's underworld so easily?
Chapter 75
(3/3)
Bruno Mannheim entered through the banquet hall's main doors, his men filing in behind him. There were about ten of them, all in suits with pistols bulging at their waists.
He was tall, broad, and exuded a commanding presence, more arrogant than the average person. Of course, he was nowhere near as intimidating as Tobias, who resembled a monster. Bruno and Tobias had long been rivals, two powerful second-generation leaders of Metropolis's criminal underworld.
As he walked in, Bruno overheard the conversation between Bardi and Tobias. His eyes immediately landed on his old adversary, who was now standing behind Bardi, and he sneered. "Tobias, how far you've fallen. You're relying on the worms from the Suicide Slum now? Do you really think they'll help you clean up the mess you made by killing your own father last night?"
Tobias, standing behind Bardi, gave Bruno a cold glare. No one knew what Bardi had promised him in the letter, but it was evidently enough to make Tobias surrender his position as a boss and follow Bardi.
"They're relics of the past," Tobias replied, his voice dripping with disdain. "They can't keep up with the times. They're weak and pathetic. You should persuade your father to step down, or I can do it for you." His sneer was sharp and cruel.
Bruno Mannheim's full name was Bruno Ugly Mannheim, though he hated the middle name and rarely used it. Only Tobias enjoyed mocking him by deliberately including it, just to provoke him.
Bruno's eyes flashed dangerously, and his muscles tensed like a predator ready to strike. But then, he forced himself to calm down, squinting at Tobias as he let out a cold laugh. "A beaten dog barking, that's all you are. Your 100 sites? My Intergang will gladly 'manage' them for you."
Tobias's expression turned icy, and he opened his mouth to retort, but Bardi raised a hand to stop him. Tobias obediently fell silent, standing behind Bardi, now watching Bruno as if he were nothing more than a clown.
Bruno frowned. Tobias's submissive attitude unsettled him. What was the story behind this Bardi? To have Tobias, who had murdered his own father to take control of the Hundred submit so easily was more than a little unusual.
"Mr. Bruno Mannheim," Bardi said with a faint smile, pouring three glasses of wine. "I suggest you forget about that territory. The Hundred no longer exists. That area now belongs to me, Bardi Barmulodi."
He handed a glass to Tobias, clinking it against his before taking a sip. Then, gesturing with a smile, he invited Bruno to take a seat and join the meal.
Bruno didn't move, his expression cold and unyielding. "Bardi Barmulodi? Really? And why should I believe that you're anything more than some punk from the Suicide Slum who's built himself up as some 'invulnerable god'?"
Bardi paused mid-sip, realizing that Bruno still thought of him as an ordinary person, just someone who would fall to a bullet like anyone else.
It wasn't surprising.
After all, humans had never seen ghosts or gods. They didn't understand the depths of the world.
Smiling faintly, Bardi set down his glass. He walked over to Tobias, placed a hand on his back, and said with a grin, "Come with me." Then, with a light push, he directed Tobias forward.
Tobias's face shifted in surprise. At nearly 200 kilograms, with the size and build of two men, he was used to his immense weight making him immovable. But with just a gentle push from Bardi, he found himself being propelled forward involuntarily. What kind of strength was this?
Bardi pushed Tobias in front of Bruno, then placed a hand on Bruno's shoulder. He had intended to place a hand on both their shoulders, but Tobias was simply too large.
"What are you doing?" Bruno demanded, his body suddenly rigid. He instinctively tried to pull away but found himself unable to budge. Bardi's hand on his shoulder was like a steel clamp, holding him in place. Shock flickered in Bruno's eyes as he realized he couldn't break free.
"Stop!"
"Let go of Mr. Mannheim!"
Bruno's men immediately pulled their pistols, aiming them at Bardi, shouting in panic.
Unbothered, Bardi grabbed both Tobias and Bruno by their shoulders and began guiding them toward the balcony. He opened the floor-to-ceiling glass doors, revealing the stunning view of the vibrant Metropolis below.
The city's lights stretched endlessly in every direction, glowing like a sea of stars. Cars flowed through the streets in endless streams, and farther out, the lights of yachts and cruise ships twinkled on the dark waters near the harbor. The faint sound of music and revelry drifted in from the coastline.
A cool, salty breeze swept across the balcony, rustling the golden curtains on either side of the doors.
Bardi inhaled deeply, savoring the fresh sea air as the wind gently tousled his hair. He chuckled softly, clearly enjoying himself.
Bruno's voice broke the silence, deep and wary. "What are you planning?"
"We're 120 meters above the ground, about forty floors up," Bardi said with a grin, gesturing toward the edge of the balcony. "Let's jump together. I'll take you flying."
Bruno's face darkened, his expression grim.
Bardi laughed again, his hair whipping in the wind. "Well, I can't fly just yet," he admitted, almost teasingly. "But I'll take you to see the sea in Metropolis!"
Bruno's gaze locked onto Bardi, his face twisting into a ferocious scowl. "If you dare to jump, we'll die together," he growled.
Bruno was convinced Bardi was bluffing. No one in their right mind would leap from the 40th floor, 120 meters above the ground. To him, this was just another display of reckless bravado, the kind of madness he expected from someone who'd crawled out of the Suicide Slum.
But to bring him, Bruno Mannheim, into submission like this was impossible.
He was Bruno Mannheim, a leader in the Intergang. What hadn't he seen?
"You can't scare me!" he thought.
Tobias's pale, stern face tightened, his lips pursed. His eyes betrayed his fear as he asked, "Boss, will I die?"
"You won't," Bardi replied with a laugh.
Tobias took a deep breath, his face solemn as he declared, "Then I'll trust you, Boss."
"Alright then… let's go!"
"Haha…"
With a loud laugh, Bardi stepped forward, feeling the salty sea breeze against his face. He climbed onto the stone railing of the balcony, and with the two men beside him, leaped off into the high winds.
The moment his feet left the ground, Bruno's breath seized in his chest. His shocked face twisted into pure terror.
"What kind of insane stunt is this?!"
At 120 meters—forty stories—what would happen when they hit the ground? It was clear: they would be reduced to pulp.
Bruno's heart pounded like a drum. His limbs went rigid, his body paralyzed as raw fear overtook him. His mind went blank, unable to process anything.
Beside him, Tobias was no better. The two men held their breath, their eyes wide in horror. The wind lashed at their faces, sharp as knives. Tears streamed uncontrollably from their eyes, only to be blown away by the violent gusts.
The wind threatened to tear the skin from their faces. Their bloodshot eyes bulged as they watched the ground rushing toward them. The fluorescent streetlights, cars, pedestrians, and trees on both sides of the street grew larger and larger in their vision.
The fear was silent, all-consuming. It clutched their hearts and crushed their minds.
Their brains, deprived of oxygen by the panic, stopped functioning. All they could do was stare blankly at the rapidly approaching ground.
Behind them, Bardi's men—and Lex—were frozen in shock.
It had all happened so quickly that no one had been able to react.
They actually jumped!
Bardi's hand remained pressed firmly against the backs of the two men. A faint, invisible force field emanated from his palm, locking onto them and ensuring they stayed aligned during the fall.
This technique was something Bardi had developed after experimenting with the Kryptonian cells of the dead female assassin a few days earlier.
Every cell in the human body generates a tiny magnetic field. When the cells are sufficiently strengthened, these magnetic fields can connect throughout the body, forming a controllable force field.
This was why Kryptonians could fly, they could unify the force field around their bodies and control it as if gliding over water.
Bardi, however, wasn't quite there yet. While he couldn't fly, he had learned to manipulate a weak force field, making himself lighter, jumping higher and farther, and using the force field to carry others effortlessly.
As the two men plummeted, the world became a blur. There was no time for life-flashing-before-your-eyes moments. The fear of death was immediate and overpowering.
The wind roared around them, hammering their bodies and making it hard to breathe. The closer they came to the ground, the more everything below expanded in their vision—the cars, the trees, the glowing streetlights, and the marble pavement waiting to greet them.
Bardi's trench coat flapped wildly in the wind, the sound deafening alongside the rushing air.
"Hahaha!"
His laughter boomed over the howling wind as he glanced at the two men beside him, their expressions frozen in terror. Their stunned faces only made him laugh harder.
Then, the ground came rushing up to meet them.
Bardi's force field flared beneath his feet, pushing against the earth as though he were stepping on solid ground. It absorbed the force of the fall, allowing him to touch down lightly, his movements smooth and almost elegant.
With one arm, he guided Tobias and Bruno, their landing cushioned by his force field. It was as though they had glided along a U-shaped arc, rebounding into the air before descending gracefully.
"Boom!"
Though Bardi himself landed lightly, the impact of his force field left a massive crater in the marble pavement. Cracks spiderwebbed across the ground, and nearby cars shook violently from the shockwave. A fire hydrant burst open with a loud bang, sending a white plume of water shooting into the sky.
Nearby pedestrians screamed, startled and frightened by the sudden chaos.
...
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