The Supreme Soldier in the City
Chapter 455 - 462: Passing By

Chapter 455: Chapter 462: Passing By

"That Joseph is really damn ruthless, even blowing up his own men!" Climbing up, David Bailey muttered and cursed, but he showed no sign of panic. For people like them, such dangers were trivial. Having danced on the razor’s edge of life and death for too long, even the most perilous situations had numbed them.

Martin Miller, however, let out a grunt and said, "Boss, I really embarrassed myself this time, almost putting the brothers in jeopardy."

James Brown smiled faintly and said, "But in the end, didn’t you figure it out?"

Martin shook his head and replied, "If you hadn’t given me that look at the last moment, I still wouldn’t have realized it. I was too careless on my own turf. Next time, I’ll be more vigilant. I can’t let my momentary negligence endanger the brothers."

James just patted Martin on the shoulder without saying much. Martin had always lived under his shadow. Now that Martin had responsibilities of his own—especially with James around—it was natural for him to feel somewhat constrained. This wasn’t due to a lack of ability but rather lingering hesitation. James was confident that Martin would soon grow into his role.

James had come this time to eliminate Joseph’s base in SSUP Country, intending to warn Joseph that if he dared come again, there would be no mercy. But now, it seemed that this approach wasn’t going to scare Joseph off. Joseph had deliberately set a trap here, signaling that the two of them would inevitably clash in a life-and-death struggle moving forward.

The sound of firetrucks and police cars drew closer and closer. The group quickly left, leaving the aftermath to others; they couldn’t be bothered to show up publicly.

Joseph was as cunning as a fox. As the leader of a terrorist organization, he was exceptionally calculating. Failing once, he had no intention of making another move against James in the short term. A man like James—missing one chance and striking again quickly would mean certain death.

So, Joseph promptly left YODC City and SSUP Country. Now that he was exposed, staying in SSUP Country under his identity was exceedingly dangerous. Although he bore a grudge against James, revenge wasn’t something that could be achieved overnight, so he wasn’t in a rush.

Moreover, he had deliberately left a fallback. By exposing his organization’s branch in SSUP Country, he was certain that James would come looking for him. If he could blow James to pieces this time, that would be ideal. And if not, Joseph still wanted James to understand that he would never give up so easily.

Back at his headquarters, Joseph’s subordinates hurriedly delivered news: their branch in SSUP Country had been discovered. Except for a few who weren’t present at the time, everyone else was wiped out.

Joseph had already known about this but kept it secret from others. He didn’t want anyone to know that this was a trap he had set, one that sacrificed his own men. If this operation had succeeded in killing James, the "Michael Hall," he would have revealed everything. But from the report, it was clear that James hadn’t been injured. Therefore, disclosing the truth now would be of no benefit to him.

Hearing the news, several senior members who were reporting to Joseph frowned deeply. Larry Brown, nicknamed "Richard Anderson," suddenly slapped the table and barked, "Saint, these damn SSUP People are unbearable! They’ve inflicted severe losses on our organization. Our first Saint was also killed by SSUP’s Michael Hall. I must go and kill that Michael Hall!"

Another senior member, Michael Morgan, nicknamed "Fox Master," said indifferently, "These people had been stationed in SSUP Country for a long time, costing us immense effort. It’s such a pity they’ve been destroyed by SSUP. However, our organization is currently short on talent, and large-scale terrorist activities aren’t advisable. I suggest we exercise restraint for now."

Larry Brown, known for his hot temper and unparalleled combat ability within the organization, glared and retorted, "Morgan, ever since our former Saint ascended, our reputation has plummeted. If we don’t stir up some major events soon, our organization will sink even further into irrelevance."

Michael Morgan tapped his long fingers on the table and said calmly, "Are you doubting the Saint’s abilities?"

Larry was taken aback and quickly said to Joseph, "Saint, I didn’t mean it that way. But I do hope the Saint will give me a chance. I want to fight Michael Hall, and I will kill him on the spot."

Joseph shook his head and said, "Larry, I admit that your skills are exceptional. When I encountered Michael Hall this time, I witnessed his immense power firsthand. Four Apostles confronting him still ended with his survival. Do you think you can handle four Apostles on your own?"

Larry burst out laughing and said, "Saint, maybe in the past, I wouldn’t have stood a chance. But lately, my abilities have surged. Four Apostles are no match for me now."

Joseph’s eyes sparkled. "That’s significant. If your strength truly has increased to that level, then you might indeed be ready for a showdown with Michael Hall."

"If the Saint doesn’t believe me, please test me with the Apostles," Larry said, laughing wildly with an arrogance that defied description.

Joseph shook his head again. "No. Even if you’re that capable, it’s not the right time. You won’t have a solo chance against Michael Hall. The moment you appear, SSUP police will track you. Seeking Michael Hall will require another opportunity."

"Saint, do you doubt my abilities?" Larry clenched his fists tightly, his eyes bulging with fury.

"It’s not about doubting you, but you must abide by the organization’s arrangements."

Larry gritted his teeth, took a deep breath, and said, "Saint, I’ll take my leave for now."

"Go ahead. Take some time to cool off. Impulsiveness won’t get things done."

After Larry left, Michael Morgan said, "Saint, Larry is still too impulsive. I worry he might defy you and act on his own."

Joseph sipped red wine, his expression calm and indifferent. He smiled slightly and said, "No need to worry. Just assign someone to monitor him. His abilities are growing, and he’s beginning to see me as insignificant. If he insists on going, let him suffer a setback at Michael Hall’s hands. That will humble him."

Michael Morgan looked worried. "I fear he might not survive if he goes to SSUP Country."

"People like Larry either learn to see reason and curb their impulsiveness, or... I’d rather sacrifice him." These words were ice-cold, brimming with chilling indifference. As the leader of the organization, Joseph was even more ruthless than his predecessor, characterized by his cold-blooded nature.

James Brown gathered a few comrades. Beyond targeting Joseph, he had tasked them with several secretive missions. Only those involved knew what they were; no one else had a clue.

After completing everything, James returned to YODC City. He had been away for about ten days, cutting all contact with everyone there. As his feet touched YODC City’s soil again, he felt an overwhelming sense of familiarity and warmth.

Still, at the airport entrance, James hesitated, unsure of where to go next.

Although the crisis was temporarily resolved and those around him were unlikely to be in immediate danger, this was merely a respite. Unless he eradicated his most dangerous enemies, he could never truly lead a normal life. Anyone close to him would inevitably be at risk.

By now, James had grown close to several people. If his enemies were serious about seeking revenge, they would likely already have gathered detailed information. Even if he distanced himself from Gina Lopez and the others, they would still be targeted. Avoiding them wouldn’t solve anything.

James hesitated primarily because he didn’t know Gina Lopez’s current thoughts. Additionally, he hadn’t yet dealt with the situation involving Emily Berns—the child was his, after all. And then there was Melody Yoody—she also had his child. How could he remain indifferent?

With all these issues swirling in his mind, James found himself completely unsure of where to go.

"Big Brother Brown!" A joyful cheer interrupted his thoughts. He turned to see Emily Jenkins running toward him, dragging her luggage behind her. Clad in a flight attendant uniform, wearing black high heels, her full chest bounced with every step. The sight was undeniably attention-grabbing.

"Don’t run. Be careful not to trip," James shouted quickly.

But he was too late. Emily stumbled, emitting a surprised cry as she fell to the side. James rushed forward like an arrow, extending his arm to catch her, pulling her into his embrace.

Instinctively, Emily clung tightly to James, her eyes shut firmly. After a moment, she let out a puzzled noise and said, "Why doesn’t it hurt?"

James couldn’t help but laugh. He helped her to her feet and said, "I told you to be careful."

Emily stuck out her tongue playfully and replied, "I was just so excited to see you!"

"Were you really that excited?" James asked, his face lighting up with a smile. Seeing Emily lifted his spirits immeasurably.

"Of course! You’re back! I can finally mooch off your cooking again. And... these past few days have been torture for me! Gina Lopez and Sister Sandra kept talking about you with such worried expressions, and I couldn’t say anything. It was unbearable!"

James could easily imagine how difficult this must have been for Emily. Smiling, he said, "Alright, I’m back now. You don’t have to feel that way anymore."

"Too bad I’m unlucky today. I have a flight assignment, so I can only stop by to grab a meal from Big Brother Brown. Oh no, it’s getting late. If I don’t go inside now, I’ll be late!" Emily said hurriedly, waving at James before dragging her luggage and rushing toward the airport.

"Hey, slow down!" James called out.

Emily turned around, stuck her tongue out at James playfully again, then slowed from a run to a brisk walk, heading inside the airport.

Just as James reached the airport entrance, he unexpectedly spotted Gina Lopez. The sight surprised him. Seeing Gina again filled him with indescribable excitement. She was his wife and, no matter what, the person closest to him now.

However, he kept his emotions hidden. Right now, he had no idea how Gina felt.

Gina was at the airport to send off an important client. She had just seen them through security and was about to head back to her company when she saw James. Overjoyed, she wanted to rush into his arms but stopped short when she noticed two men standing beside James. Clad in black suits, they didn’t seem ordinary at all.

This made Gina’s heart sink. She immediately recalled Lucy Campbell’s advice before leaving: that James was involved in something extraordinary and highly confidential, and she should not interfere. No matter how much she missed him now, Gina forced herself to hold back. She passed by James without so much as a glance, acting like a complete stranger.

James was crushed by Gina’s cold demeanor. He opened his mouth as if to speak but said nothing, watching helplessly as she walked away.