Returning from the Council meeting with his new authorization in hand, Jhon felt a sense of accomplishment, though he was under no illusions. His opponents within the Apex Alliance had not been defeated; they had only retreated into the shadows, waiting for their next chance to disrupt his plans.
After the Council gathering, Marcus debriefed him in his office. "You outmaneuvered Lang, but he's not the type to let things go. We've had reports of activity in several of his subsidiaries—shifting assets, realigning partnerships. It looks like he's preparing for something."
Jhon leaned back in his chair, absorbing the information. "Let him prepare. We'll make our own moves to stay ahead. But let's be subtle about it. We can't afford to attract too much attention."
A Surprise Visit
