Chapter 79 - Family Gathering

Chapter 79

Katarine and Ethan were finished with their preparation as the townspeople who gather near the farm were finally supernaturally manipulated by Monica's power. This was the first time she exhausted her power, creating false memories just to cover up her mistake in directly coming to Ethan's home and by past Katarine stating it was a necessary step in their plan to protect the town. However, the townspeople were left confused and disoriented, unsure of what had just transpired but feeling a sense of forgetting an important event that day as they all walked back to their homes as if nothing happened .

Monica was seen wiping the blood from her nose as Katarine went back out after half an hour.

She saw her coasin make an extra effort in correcting her mistake. Monica was still retaining her composure as Ethan's mother Rebecca was helping her. Monica explained that her nose bleed was because of the heat, knowing that Ethan's parents might not still be aware of or accustomed to people with awakened ability.

"Honey, you know that being a wealthy person has its drawbacks and annoying consequences. We have to be more discreet and not draw unnecessary attention to ourselves," she urged, reminding him that their every move was under constant observation.

Ethan knew well the weight of her words as he nodded thoughtfully.

"Especially in a place that has no idea who I am. Speculation is the hardest rumor to manage,"

He admitted, recalling how their lives had been riddled with social scandals in the past. Katarine, who once bravely embraced her unpredictability, acknowledged the stakes they were playing with.

"I love it when you call me Khat. You sound sexy,"

She replied, attempting to lighten the heaviness in the air. But the underlying truth remained: every mistake had a ripple effect, impacting not just their image but the lives of those working for them.

"Even powerful and well-known individuals have skeletons under their beds,"

She continued, her tone serious.

"Reporters are itching to dig these up and expose them. "

"We need to be more careful with our actions and the image we project to the public. Our reputation is at stake and peaceful life will be compromised"

"And every misstep could lead to serious consequences."

Ethan's mind raced back to the transformation Katarine underwent when she became president of the company—the cold and distant persona she had crafted to protect herself. "But now, I feel I can be myself again," she admitted with a hint of vulnerability, revealing how the burden of maintaining a façade had worn on her.

"I know that."

Ethan replied earnestly,

"You're still under the media's watchful eye. It's crucial to maintain a balance between authenticity and professionalism in the public eye."

As they stood there, the weight of their world pressing down, Katarine reminisced about her father's wise words, realizing just how intertwined love and fortune could be.

"But now, I feel I can be myself again. "

"I know that, Khat, you are still under the surveillance of the media."

"It's crucial to maintain a balance between authenticity and professionalism in the public eye." "Being aware of the media's scrutiny can help us navigate our actions more thoughtfully."

"My father was right."

"What do you mean by that, Ethan?"

"He told me I was lucky to have you as a girlfriend."

"I guess we both hit the jackpot in that department."

As soon as Katarine reached Monica she took out her own handkerchief and gave it to her cousin. Monica smiled and was about to say something when Katariine hugged her while she was sitting on a small wooden box.

Monica, worried about her cousin, who had been struggling recently, appreciated the gentle warmth Katarine offered as she presented a handkerchief to her.

"I know you've been going through a tough time," Katarine soothed, feeling the bond between them strengthen.

"I just want you to know I can be such a pain at times. Sorry, I'm trying to be more aware of your feelings and be more supportive."

As Monica's eyes welled up with tears, she hugged Katarine tightly, grateful for the affectionate reprieve amidst the chaos of their lives. In that poignant moment, they both realized that through the complexities of wealth, fame, and personal trials, it was these connections that truly mattered.

Monica soon smiled and thanked the company president, Katarine, before standing up with poise and elegance to deliver a concise report on the current situation at the main headquarters of the Siegert Corporation. Just a month removed from the harrowing supernatural swarm attack by flesh-eating spiders, the atmosphere in the boardroom was tense yet hopeful under Monica's steady gaze. She informed Katarine about the measures being taken in the aftermath of the incident and how the aftermath had rallied the family's strength. Not only had her father, Leonhardt Maier Siegert, taken decisive actions to ensure the corporation's stability, but he had also rallied his family members, who were known for their discretion and calculated approach to corporate affairs.

Monica elaborated on her father's siblings, each of whom played an integral role in the family's legacy. Adanir Maier Siegert, the second son, headed a construction company boasting a staggering net worth of $25 billion, embodying the ambition and industrious spirit of their lineage.

Following him was Isaiash Maier Siegert, the third son, whose global pharmaceutical enterprise soared to a remarkable $120 billion, providing crucial advancements in healthcare while seamlessly integrating ethics with profit.

Lastly, there was the youngest sibling Hywell Maier Siegert specializing in weapon manufacturing, contributing a net worth of $15 billion to the family's impressive portfolio. Together, they formed a formidable alliance; their combined acumen allowed them to flourish even amidst chaos.

At the helm was Leonhardt, the appointed Grand Patriarch after their grandfather's mysterious passing, wielding a 35 percent stake in the family's three main subsidiary corporations. Unlike the typical cutthroat nature often found in powerful families, Leonhardt's siblings displayed a commendable restraint, never allowing greed to taint their relationship with him. It was this unity under their shared vision that had transformed the Siegert name into a beacon of wealth and influence, solidifying their status as formidable players in both business and society.

The megacity of Eldridge itself, a testament to the family's legacy, thrived under their invisible hand. Once an expanse of untamed land, it blossomed into a bustling metropolis populated by over 25 million people. While the Siegert family preferred to influence rather than govern, their impact could be felt in every corner of the city. A tapestry of growth and potential, Eldridge encapsulated the dreams and aspirations of the astounding dynasty, which, despite their power, remained grounded and respected across all societal tiers. The looming presence of their legacy instilled both fear and respect in the voices of other influential families, ensuring the Siegert name would continue to reign supreme for generations to come.

Ethan and Katarine bid their goodbyes toward the farm house and promised to return. Ethan gave his mother a kiss and a hug, and soon he gave his father a firm handshake and also a hug. Katarine soon followed her fiance's action and also gave them both well-deserved goodbyes as they entered the private company helicopter and headed back toward the city.

After nearly two hours, they finally reach the megacity. Sadly, Katarine had to be separated from Ethan as she would now attend the emergency meeting with the family elders. At the top of the main head office, Secretary Sonia was waiting for them; the two were already brief with all the necessary information. Katarine gave Ethan a warm, loving kiss and went on their separate ways.

In the heart of Eldridge, where gleaming skyscrapers kissed the clouds and neon lights flickered like stars in an artificial sky, the boardroom of the Siegert Corporation was a crucible of power. It was here, beneath polished glass and brushed steel, that Monica Maier Siegert stood poised to address her family's empire.

A month had passed since the supernatural swarm attack by flesh-eating spiders had rattled their world—a macabre reminder of nature's unpredictable ferocity. The elegant room, with its panoramic views of the cityscape, served as a stark contrast to the chaos that had once engulfed them, and as Monica prepared to speak, she felt the weight of both her family's legacy and the burdens of leadership resting heavily on her shoulders.

Monica's gaze swept across the room, taking in her audience: Katarine, the company president with an iron will; her father Leonhardt, Grand Patriarch draped in authority; and her uncles Adanir and Isaiash, each a titan in his own right.

The atmosphere was thick with tension yet punctuated by a glimmer of hope that danced in Monica's steady demeanor. It was not just a board meeting; it was a moment of reckoning, a crossroads where decisions made could either guide them toward regeneration or plunge them back into uncertainty. Drawing in a deep breath, she began her address, her voice steady and strong, a beacon of resilience amidst the looming shadows.

"Thank you for your trust," she said, flashing a confident smile at Katarine. "Today marks not just our recovery but our resurgence." Each word she spoke was meticulously chosen to inspire confidence, as she outlined their response to chaos—a rallying cry for unity within their storied family. The aftermath of devastation had galvanized them into action rather than despair.

Under Leonhardt's steadfast leadership, the family had quickly strategized, forming a cohesive front to stabilize their corporation while nurturing the deep familial bonds that had long been their foundation. Unbeknownst to many, it was this strength, forged in the fires of adversity, that truly set them apart in a world fraught with unforeseen challenges.

The siblings played pivotal roles in this revival. Each one brought unique strengths to bear on their shared legacy: Adanir's booming construction empire reached skyward, reshaping the skyline with new towers; Isaiash's pharmaceutical innovations promised healing to countless lives; and Elara's defense manufacturing ensured their safety in the face of threats, both known and unknown.

Together, they formed an alliance that rivaled even the most formidable corporate entities, united under one vision yet diverse enough to adapt swiftly amidst turmoil. As Monica elaborated on their collaborative efforts, pride welled within her—a tapestry woven from threads of sacrifice, skill, and compassion that enveloped the corporation, and, in many ways, the community itself.

"The recent events have taught us invaluable lessons," Katarine continued, her voice reflecting her conviction. "We are not merely survivors—we are architects of our future."

It was a powerful message, underscoring their evolution from mere business magnates to guardians of the 25 million souls that thrived beneath Eldridge's shimmering skyline. Yet, amid the promise of hope, shadows lurked. The memory of their grandfather's mysterious passing still echoed hauntingly within these walls, a reminder of vulnerabilities that even wealth and power could not shield them from.

Leonhardt's influence as the custodian of their family's legacy was palpable as he wielded his substantial stake in three subsidiaries, each decision reverberating with the potential to shape their future. Despite their immense wealth—a beacon guiding them forward—the family was acutely aware of how fragile such legacies could be when tainted by greed or ambition unchecked.

It was under Leonhardt's guidance that they had cultivated values anchored in integrity, fostering an unyielding loyalty among them that transcended financial gain. As Monica concluded her report on strategies implemented post-attack, an atmosphere of cautious optimism began to build, thundering softly yet powerfully in the room as members processed the implications of her words.

A few family members wanted to confirm the residential building project was really that important, given the fact Katarine plans to reinforce the material and equip the place with enough protection but sell it at a low price to average income earning families .

They were reassured by Monica's explanation that the project aligned with their core values of community development and affordable housing, emphasizing the long-term benefits over short-term financial gains. Monica's commitment to integrity and loyalty to the family's values shone through in her strategic approach to the project, easing any doubts about its importance.

But they were not convinced with this, as the younger and newer family members were more concerned with the potential financial risks involved in such a large investment. They requested a detailed financial analysis to better understand the feasibility of the project before committing further.

Katarine, brow furrowed with concern, leaned forward and gave her reply,

"And what if we face another assault? These supernatural creatures have proven it can strike without warning."

"Dear cousin, are you implying that we spend millions just to save a few average working families and ruin our reputation ?"

The person who spoke was the youngest distant grandnephew of the family, Albert Siegert Thomson, known for his arrogance because of his somewhat blood connection toward the 4 main pillars of the main family Katarine raised an eyebrow at Albert's response, taken aback by his callousness towards the potential threat. She knew that his family connections often clouded his judgment, whose very presence felt like an intrusion into this tightly woven tapestry of inherited power. A distant relative who bore only echoes of true bloodline legacy, Albert was determined to make his mark amidst relatives who resented him for it.

"Director Albert Siegert Thomson , this is your first time attending the Siegert family meeting."

"Yes, this is my first time attending such a meeting."

He said suddenly, breaking the heavy silence that followed Katarine's plea. His voice carried both trepidation and resolve as he continued, "So I am exercising my authority to speak my mind if I see fit." The eyes of his family narrowed at him as though gauging whether he dared step beyond his boundaries.

"Authority?" Katarine smirked derisively.

"What do you know about authority? when you were born into obscurity!"

Director Albert Siegert Thomson stood tall, meeting their gazes with unwavering determination.

"I may have been born into obscurity, but I am here now,"

he declared, his voice steady and unwavering. His family exchanged uncertain glances, unsure of what to make of this sudden display of confidence.

"Obscurity doesn't dictate capability!" Albert shot back defiantly.

The room crackled with palpable energy; here was someone unafraid to challenge tradition—even if it meant standing alone against centuries-old beliefs about bloodlines and worthiness.

"You do know what your family is constantly doing against the main family?"

"five years ago your father made illegal dealings with a criminal syndicate to eliminate a political competitor that ended your mother life, and you were the one who was known to have covered this information to save your father ."

"The person who lost that life, was the only person that gave you this so called connection to us."

"So, Director Albert Siegert Thomson, you are standing here not because you have the right; this authority was given to you by your late mother, the person who truly held the Siegert blood line."

Albert's jaw clenched as he processed the accusations, his mind racing with the implications of his family's actions. The weight of their secrets threatened to crush him, but he refused to let it define him any longer.

He was the same age as Katarine , but like any other family member , these people were only connected by paper, as none of them truly inherited the Siegert true blood line.

Katarine has multiple relatives who were the same age as her; these people were born with the family out of necessity. Not knowing anything beyond the fact they somewhat have a small incling of the Siegert name written on their birth certificates, the young man named Albert Siegert Thomson is one of the new directors at the Siegert pharmaceutical company.

This was the first time he was allowed to attend such a meeting; most of them hated the fact that Katarine, who was the same age as them, gained more power and authority as soon as she turned twenty years old. These relatives of her were too ignorant of the fact they were all normal, unlike those who were born within the real bloodline.

The large conference room has been set up to accommodate more than a hundred people; these were specific people who were given acknowledgement from the current head Grand Patriarch, who was Katarine's father.

"And Director Albert Siegert Thomson, do not addres me as cousin; I am the president of the Siegert multi-industrial conglomerate company"

"We might be on the same age. "Please show me the respect I deserve as your superior," Katarine stated firmly, her tone leaving no room for argument. The other relatives shifted uncomfortably in their seats, realizing they were in the presence of a powerful and determined leader.

"This meeting among the other family heads is not about your personal relationships or titles, but about the future of every living being on this planet as a whole."

"We are investing in the future; these average people you refuse to acknowledge are the backbone of our success. Siegert will continue to innovate and grow while uplifting and protecting those who are around us."

"Your point has been made crystal clear," Katarine stated firmly, "and we will not waver in our commitment to progress and unity." The other family heads nodded in agreement, understanding the gravity of the situation and the importance of working together for the greater good.

"You were invited here, Director Albert Siegert Thomson. Was to hear the overall plan of the 4 main families, nothing more, nothing less."

Director Albert Siegert Thomson was taken aback by the firmness in Katarine's voice, realizing the seriousness of the situation. He reluctantly nodded in agreement and just bit his lip and remained silent, Director Albert Siegert Thomson not knowing he would soon come face-to-face with another ex-director and this person would open a path to where there was no turning back.

as one of the staff was a spy paid by the former ex director Callum Grant, the person that Katarine fired and replaced by supervisor Davis Martin.

"The news about the large number of attacks from these supernatural creatures has been increasing, and within a span of just a few weeks, hundreds of average people were left defenseless against these attacks."

Katarine made her point and went nobody dare to contracdic her; she induced the current Grand Patriarch, who was Leonhardt Maier Siegert.

" within the Siegert history, we were born with a dark prophecy and a quest that our blood line never forgot."

"This is the very reason why me and my three siblings started our respective corporations; and made them flourish beyond comprehension: to support our plan to return home to our true native land."

"My father, Grand Patriarch Rollos Siegert, came to the world with determination to trample his enemies and be rewarded beyond material possession. Among the family members who are here carrying the Siegert name, half of you will see what it truly means to have the blood line."

"Confirm your lienage. As a true Siegert, you can wield the power to control and maintain the elements."

The announcement echoed through the hall, leaving a palpable sense of confusion among the gathered family members. They exchanged puzzled glances, their minds racing as they contemplated the implications. Leonhardt Maier Siegert stood at the forefront, commanding attention as he directed his brother to present the assessment orb.

This orb, a colossal version of the one utilized by the knight association, shimmered ominously, hinting at the secrets it held within. As the atmosphere crackled with anticipation, each family member placed their hand on the orb, triggering a cascade of vibrant colors that illuminated the space.

The orb's glow revealed not just elemental affinities, be it fire, water, earth, or air, but also the rank and power level of each individual, heightening the suspense that clung to the air like a dense fog.

Amidst the collective awe, sixty out of eighty family members found themselves awakening to their latent powers, revealing a stark reality: they were all combat types. Leonhardt observed the unfolding drama with a measure of pride, his heart swelling as the family embraced their newfound abilities. However, not everyone shared their excitement. Many gain the rank of a leutenant knight with a rank of 15.

Among the remaining twenty, Director Albert Siegert Thomson felt the sting of discontent as he recognized his own status as a non-combatant. His ability to produce poison, while certainly unique, paled in comparison to the dazzling elemental affinities around him. Disheartened, he realized that his power was not only undervalued but was also a possible barrier to his aspirations for promotion

As the excitement simmered down, whispers swept through the crowd, an undercurrent of curiosity about the capabilities of Leonhardt and his brothers. Their enigmatic nature added an air of intrigue, as none of them divulged any hints about their true strength. They remained steadfast in their silence, maintaining an aura of mystery that only enhanced the allure of their powers. Meanwhile, Director Albert's frustration bubbled over, compelling him to fixate on Katarine, one of the awakened family members. He demanded she showcase her power and rank, desperate to gauge not only her abilities but also to understand the chasm that seemed to separate him from the rest of his family a chasm that felt wider than mere elemental affinities.

But amidst this celebration surged another tide—a wave darkened by discontent.

Director Albert Siegert Thomson watched in muted horror as figures around him transformed into embodiments of strength and valor while he remained untouched by such glory. He felt small beneath towering expectations and familial legacies etched into every fiber around him. His own unique ability to produce toxins seemed grotesque compared to the dazzling displays unfolding before him.

Albert clenched his fists at his sides until knuckles blanched white against flesh so full of bitterness he feared it might crack open and spill forth despair onto those who reveled beside him. Why should poison be scorned when wielding elemental fury?

His gaze drifted toward Katarine, a young woman whose laughter echoed through chambers still thick with tension from earlier revelations. She had always been spirited yet gentle; now she sparkled vibrantly under her newfound power, a radiant aura enveloping her as if she were born anew among gods.

"Show us your rank!" Albert barked suddenly, desperation lacing his tone as though he sought validation not just for himself but for something greater within reach yet always elusive.

Katarine blinked at him in surprise but quickly complied, summoning her abilities forth while shimmering light encased her limbs like armor forged from dreams unbroken by reality's weighty chains.

The glow intensified a red energy reflecting the raging storm in her soul and then settled upon her form: Fire ranked second only to Leonhardt himself! And her rank was the same rank of a knight commander who was rank 55.

Collective awe washed over them once more, but for Albert? A chasm opened wider than mere elements separating combatants from non-combatants; it gnawed at him insidiously deeper than any physical wound ever could have dared venture.

The assessment tool that they used was more accurate in assessing a person's ability and level of rank, so there was no denying the undeniable power and skill possessed by this fiery warrior. The realization of the vast difference in their capabilities left Albert feeling more isolated and vulnerable than ever before.

This financially indebted pave the way for the ex Director Callum Grant to lure her and become his spy within the main office, where she would gather information and report back to him in exchange for financial assistance. Despite the risks, she felt trapped in this cycle of debt and manipulation, unsure of how to break free.

This was her last task, and all her debt will finally vanish. The female attendant secretly poured water on an Albert Siegert Thomson glass and slipped a small paper with Callum Grant handwriting. A sinister smile was seen in Albert 's eyes as he picked up the glass and read the note, knowing that this was just the beginning of a dangerous game he was now going to be a part of.

The onslaught of these vile creatures, both literal and metaphorical, serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of our ecosystems and the threats posed to our survival. Yet, amid this chaos, a darker truth emerges: the insatiable greed that resides within man often overshadows their capacity for collective action and empathy. Individuals, consumed by the desire to amass wealth and power, may prioritize personal ambitions over the pressing needs of the planet, which is facing drastic changes that demand our immediate attention.

Despite the clear warnings from nature and the relentless march of uncertainty, many find solace in the familiar comforts of self-serving goals. This persistent clinging to egoistic desires blinds us to the larger picture, where collaborative efforts could yield solutions to the crises we face.

Instead, we witness a painful irony; as our environment deteriorates and invasive species threaten our biodiversity, we remain entrapped in a cycle of exploitation and consumption. The quest for personal gain often takes precedence over the well-being of our global community, reflecting a disheartening truth: when push comes to shove, the heart's inclination towards greed can overshadow the mind's call for responsibility.

In a world swirling with fear and unpredictability, nurturing the roots of our innate greed can lead to devastating consequences. As humanity stares into the abyss of uncertainty.