Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 2652

Andrew turned around with a smile and said, "But aren't you and Mr. Avila old acquaintances? And from the way it looked, the two of you seemed pretty close."

Jerome shook his head and replied, "We are old acquaintances. Back when I was the leader of the Southern Martial Union, Milo went out of his way to curry favor with me. But to say we have a good relationship? That would be stretching the truth."

Jerome continued, "Most importantly, he's just an incompetent guy who can't be trusted with anything serious. And you're not here at the Advanced Medical Institute just to watch the chaos, are you?"

Andrew laughed loudly and said, "Mr. Thornton, have a seat. You really get me. I'm here for one thing only: to take the Institute's alchemists."

Jerome froze for a moment, then nodded in understanding. "I see. Andy, you've got quite an appetite there. Right now, the Advanced Medical Institute is clearly done for. If we're talking about what's actually valuable here, there are only two things.

"First, the seat as the director. Whoever controls that becomes a major power in the ancient sect world. Second, the manpower, specifically, the large number of mid-grade alchemists. You've got a sharp eye, I'll give you that."

Andrew nodded solemnly. "My goal here is to take away every alchemist I possibly can. But Mr. Thornton, you must know how difficult that's going to be. This isn't like buying merchandise where the highest bidder wins. As long as the Advanced Medical Institute still exists and hasn't completely collapsed, these alchemists won't be willing to leave their home.

He warned, "Koda is incredibly strong, standing at the peak of the martial saint level. Andy, that final step where you sideline or kill him is going to carry some serious risk."

Andrew's expression remained calm. "Three days. I just need three more days, and I'll be able to take down Koda single-handedly. Of course, if the situation changes, I'll need you to lend me a hand, and with Eric joining us, the three of us together, even God himself couldn't save Koda."

Jerome fell into silence. After a long pause, he stared intently at Andrew, studying him carefully before asking, "Has your combat power already reached the level to match that of a martial emperor?"