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

The news of the Black Hand's return spread like wildfire. Fear gripped the underworld, but in Joon's empire, there was only silence. Calculated silence.

In the heart of his skyscraper, Joon sat at the head of a long, obsidian table. Around him were his most trusted—Soo-ah, Hyun-soo, Kyung-tae, and Min-soo. The weight of the city rested on their shoulders, and they knew one thing for sure:

Hyun-soo exhaled, breaking the silence. "They never show their full strength unless they're certain of victory."

Kyung-tae smirked. "Then let's make them uncertain."

Joon leaned forward, his fingers tapping against the polished surface. "We take everything before they do."

Joon's eyes burned. "We shut down their entire network before they even get a chance to play their first move."

Joon moved like a ghost in the shadows. Over the next few nights, the Black Hand's hidden businesses—casinos, supply chains, secret stock investments—were wiped out one by one.

Seok-jin and his team painted over the Black Hand's symbols with Joon's insignia. The underworld woke up to a new reality—

The empire they feared was already collapsing.

Kyung-tae's voice crackled over the phone. "They just lost five major ports. Their smuggling routes are crippled."

Soo-ah grinned. "That was too easy."

But Joon didn't smile. This was just the beginning.

At midnight, a message arrived. A single black envelope, left on Joon's desk.

"Meet me at the Eclipse Hotel. One hour. Alone. – Hwa-young"

Soo-ah crossed her arms. "You're still going, aren't you?"

Joon stood, adjusting his cufflinks. "Of course."

The elevator ride to the rooftop felt like a descent into the abyss. When Joon stepped out, the city lights stretched endlessly before him.

And at the edge of the rooftop, Hwa-young waited.

She was dressed in black this time, a contrast to the blood-red of their last meeting. The wind carried her voice.

Joon stepped closer. "I don't play games."

She tilted her head. "Then why are you here?"

He smirked. "Because neither do you."

Silence. Then she sighed, stepping forward, her voice almost… amused.

Hwa-young's lips curled. "The man who once ruled this city. The man the Black Hand erased."

Joon felt a flicker of something—a whisper from the past.

But before he could ask, she placed a single silver key in his hand.

"A gift," she whispered. "For when you realize the truth."

Then she stepped back, smiling. "Don't die too soon, Joon."

And with that, she disappeared into the night.

Joon stared at the key. Something about it felt… familiar.

Back at his penthouse, he placed it on the table. It gleamed under the light, whispering of secrets long buried.

Soo-ah picked it up, frowning. "This insignia…"

Joon exhaled. "It belonged to someone important."

Joon's jaw tightened. "My father."

Outside, the city continued to hold its breath.

The war wasn't just about power anymore.

And Joon was ready to burn everything to find it.

Chapter 35 – The Game of Kings