So this is what it feels like to be at the top

"You're smart to recognize your situation."

Whitestone gave a cold smile and spoke. "William, knowing your limits is a virtue. Given the scale of this deal, even if you're getting just forty percent, do you really think your little Nocturnal Crescent guild can handle it? Why not let us, the Sterling Group, 'generously' lend a hand? Don't worry, we believe in harmony—peace brings prosperity. And we won't be too greedy or unreasonable..."

He paused for a moment before continuing in a tone that left no room for negotiation. "How about this, William? We'll take half of Nocturnal Crescent's share in the troop trade. That should be fair enough, right?"

The moment those words left his mouth, William's expression darkened completely.

His face turned pale, then flushed with anger—

A storm of emotions flickered across his features.

But he didn't dare to argue.

Meanwhile, Whitestone had already ended the call on his own.