Chapter 30: The Number of the Car Plate

"Forget you, dead head! Bring the money tomorrow, old man, and I'll give you the painting! Look at how anxious you are!" Old Man Blake huffed, blowing his beard and glaring at Don. It seemed the two were used to joking like this.

"Alright, old man, I'll take my leave now," Ethan said with a polite nod.

"That's fine. Ruthie's third and fourth uncles will be here soon. Let them keep you company for a few drinks before you go!" Old Man Blake insisted, gripping Ethan's hand tightly.

Ethan chuckled and shook his head. "I really don't have time today. My friend is still waiting for me. How about this — another day. When I have some free time, I'll definitely come back and share a drink with your uncles."

Seeing that Ethan was determined to leave, Old Man Blake reluctantly agreed. He exchanged numbers with Ethan and, along with Ruthie, escorted him to the car. As the vehicle drove away, the two stood at the gate, excitement still lighting up their faces.

Meanwhile, things had been going smoothly for Henry at Golden Ring Corporation, especially with Han's help. The company now had over ten transport trucks, and Henry had even bought himself a million-dollar BMW. In his words, "Boss, I'm not squandering. I'm building the company's image!" After paying back the hundred million Ethan had invested, there was still seventy million left.

Ethan had received his car from Don a few days ago — a sleek ride, no doubt. But the license plate… that was another story. Don had gone all out, getting a plate with five sixes: 66666. According to the guys who delivered the car, securing that plate was almost as hard as getting the car itself. Don had to pull some serious strings to make it happen. "You can't get a plate like this with just money," they had said.

As if the flashy license plate wasn't enough, something even stranger happened. Xavier, the mysterious man Ethan had saved earlier, showed up again — this time at Ethan's home. Xavier was desperate to recruit Ethan into his organization. Ethan had no interest in getting involved, but Xavier played the emotional card. He spoke about the growing threat from enemy forces and the heavy sacrifices made every year.

Tears welled in Xavier's eyes as he pleaded. Ethan could see the sincerity, but he still hesitated. He wasn't the type to be tied down by rules or obligations.

Sensing Ethan's reluctance, Xavier quickly changed tactics. "Alright, how about this — you won't be a full member. Think of it as… an honorary title. You can live your life as usual, and we'll only call on you in special situations when we really need you."

After a long pause, Ethan finally nodded. "Fine. But only on my terms."

Xavier beamed. "Deal!" He pulled a sleek black booklet from his pocket and handed it over. Ethan opened it, eyes widening as he saw a majestic dragon emblazoned across the cover.

"Wait a minute… is this the Dragon Group?" Ethan asked, suspicion creeping into his voice.

Xavier just smiled. "Take a look inside."

When Ethan flipped the booklet open, his jaw dropped. It contained his photo and ID number — information he had never shared. "How the hell did you get this?!"

Xavier chuckled. "Come on, Ethan. We're not amateurs. We were prepared for this. Besides, we knew you'd come around eventually."

Ethan scowled. "You really wouldn't take no for an answer, huh?"

"Hahaha! Don't be so grumpy. Being part of the Dragon Group is the highest honor you could have. Less than a hundred people in the entire country hold this title! And as a 'half-crown prince,' you're not exactly a civilian anymore."

Ethan blinked. "What did you just call me? Half-crown prince? What kind of nonsense is that? My family has been mountain villagers for generations. You've got the wrong guy."

Xavier's smile stiffened. "Uh… slip of the tongue. Forget I said anything." He quickly changed the subject. "Anyway, let's go over the code phrases we use online."

Ethan narrowed his eyes but decided to let it slide. For now. He listened carefully as Xavier explained the secret codes, all the while feeling like he'd been roped into something far bigger than he'd bargained for.