Jackim_Ochieng

Joon, an ordinary high school student, unexpectedly inherits a fortune, transforming his life overnight. Initially celebrated, he soon faces mockery and betrayal from friends who envy his newfound wealth. As he strives to maintain his humility, a close friend's betrayal leads to personal and financial turmoil. Seeking solace and strength, Joon receives martial arts training, which empowers him to confront his past. As he travels through various cities, he navigates temptations of wealth and rebuilds his relationships, ultimately seeking revenge on those who wronged him. Through trials and growth, Joon learns that true success lies not in riches, but in integrity and personal connections.

RISE OF THE PHOENIX by Jackim ochieng

Joon sat in the back of his black Maybach, staring at the neon skyline. The city was alive, unaware that the war had already begun. Kyung-tae had returned. And he hadn't come alone.

"Seok-jin's men confirmed it," Soo-ah said from the passenger seat. "They took over one of our warehouses in Gangnam. He's making a statement."

Joon smirked, rolling the diamond ring between his fingers. "Then we make one louder."

Hyun-soo, seated beside him, adjusted his leather gloves. "We hit back tonight?"

Joon's eyes darkened. "No. We erase them tonight."

The car sped through the city, heading toward a war that had no rules.

At an abandoned shipyard near the Han River, Kyung-tae stood like a king in exile.

Around him, his men—former allies turned enemies—stood ready. "Joon thinks he owns this city," Kyung-tae muttered, lighting a cigarette. "But he forgot who helped him build it."

A man beside him, a former assassin named Dae-suk, smirked. "And now?"

Kyung-tae exhaled smoke. "Now we remind him that kings can be dethroned."

A sniper was already stationed, watching Joon's convoy approach.

The first bullet would be their declaration of war.

But Joon wasn't the type to walk into a trap.

Before Kyung-tae's sniper could pull the trigger, his radio crackled.

The sniper collapsed, a bullet through his skull. Joon had anticipated everything.

From the shadows, Hyun-soo led a silent assault, taking down Kyung-tae's men one by one.

Soo-ah had already infiltrated the shipyard's security, cutting off communications.

Kyung-tae turned, only to find Joon already pointing a gun at him.

Kyung-tae gritted his teeth. "You always were a step ahead."

Joon smiled coldly. "That's why I'm still standing. And why you're about to fall."

Before Kyung-tae could react, Joon pulled the trigger.

A single shot. Straight to the leg.

Kyung-tae collapsed. His men? Scattered.

Joon knelt beside him. "This is your only warning." His voice was ice. "Stay down, or I'll put you six feet under."

Kyung-tae gasped in pain, but he knew the truth. Joon never gave second warnings.

By morning, news spread across the underworld.

Kyung-tae's forces had vanished. Joon's power had grown. And the city? Still belonged to him.

Because somewhere in the shadows, a bigger enemy was watching.

And they weren't afraid to make the next move.

Chapter 33 – The Sound of War