Chapter 43: White Bird Organization’s Elders (Part 2)

"Who I choose to marry is none of your concern."

The cold, indifferent voice sent a chill through the room. Immediately, everyone shot up from their seats—except for Elliot, who was already standing.

In an instant, their casual banter disappeared, replaced by sharp professionalism. Song Mokun and An Xiuling had been serious from the start, so their expressions remained unchanged, but the others swiftly adjusted their demeanor.

"Greetings, Boss!" They spoke in unison.

Lillie walked toward her throne-like chair, settling into it gracefully. The rest followed suit, while Elliot stood by her side.

As the second-in-command of the White Bird Organization, Elliot held the highest position beneath Lillie herself. Known as the ruthless White Crow, his presence in the Underworld was rare—but not as elusive as White Bird's. No one outside the Elders even knew White Bird's true identity.

The Elders—Lan Wucheng, An Xiuling, Feng Chunhua, Cyrus, and Cyra—were expected to show respect, politeness, and absolute professionalism before him.

Well, that was the expectation. In reality, they saw Elliot as an older brother. And while they respected him, 'politeness' was... questionable.

Lillie's voice cut through the silence. "Report."

An Xiuling rose first. "Azure Tortoise has been unusually quiet. We infiltrated their headquarters with a mole, but so far, there's nothing suspicious. However, we'll keep monitoring them for the next few months."

Lillie nodded. An Xiuling returned to her seat as Song Mokun stepped forward.

"Our spies stationed near Vermillion Dragon's base uncovered unexpected intel," he reported, his expression darkening slightly.

Most people wouldn't notice the subtle shift in his demeanor, but the Elders and Lillie weren't 'most people.'

"Vermillion Dragon has been reaching out to their allies—particularly the Italian and Japanese mafias—to launch an attack on Black Tiger."

The air in the room grew heavy. Everyone's faces darkened. Lillie's gaze dropped slightly, sharp and calculating.

Hah. Who did they think they were? And more importantly—who did they think she was?

They wanted to target her closest ally? Then they would have to face her first.

"Elliot."

Elliot gave a curt nod, already understanding her intent. Without another word, he exited the room to contact Black Tiger.

Lillie turned back to the others. "Stay on high alert. Xiuling, have your people intensify surveillance on Azure Tortoise. Mokun, send the Elite Assassins to Vermillion Dragon. Cyrus, Cyra—you're going with them. Infiltrate their headquarters and find any evidence of the deal between the Italian and Japanese mafias."

"Oh, oh! What about me?" Lan Wucheng shot his hand up impatiently.

An Xiuling smacked it down with a scowl. "Be serious!" she hissed.

Lan Wucheng rubbed his stinging hand, pouting like a child.

Lillie merely raised her fingers slightly, signaling for them to stop bickering.

"Everything is already in place. The only thing left for you to do is sit down and stick to what you're good at."

A metaphorical arrow pierced through Lan Wucheng's heart.

Boss... I can't be that useless, right? Why can't you give me a cool mission like that ice block, Song Mokun?!

Lillie watched his devastated expression with mild amusement. She was only teasing—though it was also a consequence of his tendency to play too much with enemies.

"Hack into Vermillion Dragon and Azure Tortoise's systems," she ordered. "See if they've been in contact. Stay undetected."

Lan Wucheng's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Yes, Boss!"

"Also, find out what Vermillion Dragon and their allies are planning."

"On it!"

Lillie sighed inwardly. She could never truly ignore any of her people. Every member of White Bird Organization was valuable.

"Meeting adjourned."

With their orders set, the Elders saluted before dispersing to carry out their respective missions.