The cool night air outside the Ridgeview Event Hall carried the hum of quiet conversations and farewells. The reunion had ended on a high note for Arnold, Clara, Catherine, Steven, and Benjamin, but the sense of camaraderie lingered.
"Arnold, don't stay away too long," Steven said, shaking his hand. "You've done more for Amber Ridge than anyone else could have, but it's always better when you're around."
Benjamin gave Arnold a grin, his gratitude evident. "You're basically family here. Amber Ridge will always have your back."
Clara smirked, folding her arms. "The guy who used to be the quiet genius in high school has turned into a real-life tycoon. Honestly, Arnold, it's hard to keep up with you."
Arnold chuckled. "Life has a way of changing things. But some things don't change—I'll always be here for Amber Ridge when you need me."
As they stood chatting, Luna approached Arnold with her usual composed demeanor, though the urgency in her voice was unmistakable.
"Sir, I've just received a call from your father. You need to head to Maryland immediately. Your grandfather has requested your presence. It's urgent and cannot be delayed."
Arnold's expression turned serious. "Understood."
Turning to Clara and Catherine, he said, "Change of plans. I need to go to Maryland. Looks like this night isn't over yet."
Catherine raised an eyebrow. "Maryland? Sounds intriguing."
Clara smiled. "We're coming with you. Who knows? Maybe we'll uncover more about the mysterious Arnold Sinclair."
Within the hour, a convoy of three sleek cars roared down the highway toward Maryland. Arnold drove the Aston Martin Valkyrie, its engine purring with authority as it led the way. Clara and Catherine followed in the Ferrari SF90, their excitement evident as they chatted and marveled at the smooth ride. Luna and Robert brought up the rear in a third vehicle, their vigilance ensuring the journey was uneventful.
The darkened highway gave way to the glittering cityscape of Maryland as the convoy approached its destination. Arnold couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. His grandfather, Hellium Sinclair, was not a man who summoned people without reason, and Arnold suspected this meeting would be pivotal.
The convoy entered a gated community, its vast estates shrouded in silence and grandeur. At the end of a winding driveway stood the Sinclair manor, an imposing Mediterranean-style structure that exuded timeless elegance. Its white stucco walls, terracotta roof, and sprawling gardens were a testament to the Sinclair family's legacy.
Clara stepped out of the Ferrari, her eyes wide as she took in the sight. "This place… it's incredible."
Catherine nodded in agreement, her voice awestruck. "Arnold, is there anything you don't have?"
Arnold smiled faintly. "It has its perks."
As they reached the grand entrance, Clara hesitated. "We should probably return the car…"
Arnold shook his head. "Keep it. Consider it yours. Besides, I may need your help again someday."
The women exchanged stunned glances, but before they could protest, Arnold turned and led Luna and Robert into the manor.
The manor's interior was a blend of modern luxury and old-world charm. The polished marble floors reflected the light of crystal chandeliers, and the walls were adorned with priceless artwork and ancestral portraits.
Arnold moved through the hallways with purpose, his mind already bracing for the conversation ahead. In the grand living room, three figures were seated: Victor Sinclair, Arnold's father; Eleanor Sinclair, his mother; and Hellium Sinclair, the patriarch of the Sinclair family.
Hellium was a commanding presence, his sharp eyes and upright posture exuding power and authority. Arnold remembered him from his childhood, though their interactions had always been formal.
"Arnold," Hellium said, his voice deep and resonant. "You're here."
Arnold bowed his head respectfully. "Grandpa. It's good to see you."
"Brut," Hellium said, waving a hand dismissively. "Enough with the pleasantries. Sit down. We have much to discuss."
Arnold took a seat, his expression serious as he met his grandfather's gaze.
"You've had a year to play around," Hellium began, his tone sharp but not unkind. "And you've done far more than I expected. You didn't just coast through your responsibilities—you took them head-on. Crimson Horizon, Lumé, Aurum Palace… even Pillarstone Developers and the Amber Ridge project. These aren't small accomplishments."
Arnold nodded humbly. "I couldn't tarnish the Sinclair name."
"Don't give me that nonsense about reputation," Hellium snapped. "You did it because you have the vision and the capability. You've proven that you can succeed even when the odds are stacked against you."
Victor leaned forward, his voice warm with pride. "The companies under your leadership speak highly of you, Arnold. That kind of respect is rare, and you've earned it."
Hellium's piercing gaze bore into Arnold. "But that's not why I called you here. It's time to prepare for the next step."
"There are three months until your graduation," Hellium said. "Once that's done, you'll have a choice. You can pursue a master's degree if you wish, or you can step fully into the world of business. If you choose the latter, I'm prepared to grant you control of the Sinclair holdings in New Jersey, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New York."
Arnold's eyes widened slightly. The territories Hellium mentioned were some of the most influential in the country, brimming with opportunities.
"You'll also receive $10 billion," Hellium continued. "Use it however you see fit. Build, invest, expand, or even indulge yourself—I don't care. But my advice is this: use it to grow stronger. The world we live in isn't forgiving. Power is the only way to survive."
Arnold nodded, his expression calm but resolute. "I'll make the most of it."
Hellium's tone shifted, becoming more solemn. "There's something else you need to understand, Arnold. The Sinclair family isn't just wealthy or powerful. We're part of something much bigger—something ancient."
Arnold frowned slightly. "What do you mean?"
Victor spoke, his voice steady. "The Sinclair family is one of the Five Great Ancient Families. Since ancient times, these families have controlled the world's economy, politics, and society. We are the forces behind the scenes, shaping history itself."
Hellium continued. "The other families are Osler, Hemsworth, Sokolov, and Thornbane. Each family has its own sphere of influence, its own secrets. Together, we've guided the course of civilization."
Hellium elaborated on the other families:
The Hemsworth Family: Scholars and intellectuals, their influence lies in education and research. They own prestigious universities and research facilities worldwide.
The Sokolov Family: Warriors and tacticians, their lineage fills the ranks of elite military forces and law enforcement. They also run dojos that teach ancient combat techniques.
The Osler Family: Medical experts, renowned for their hospitals, pharmaceuticals, and cutting-edge research in biotechnology.
The Thornbane Family: The most enigmatic of all, shrouded in mystery. Ancient records suggest they were once pirates who controlled the seas, but their current operations are unknown.
"We Sinclairs," Hellium said, "are the most balanced of them all. We excel in finance, technology, real estate, and beyond. But make no mistake—each family is a force to be reckoned with."
Hellium leaned forward, his sharp eyes locking onto Arnold's. "Your graduation marks the beginning of your real journey. I'll give you a copy of our family's secret martial art—Star Origin Art. It's an ancient technique that will strengthen both your body and mind."
Victor added, "You'll also have full access to the assets you've built on your own. Use them wisely."
Eleanor spoke softly, her gaze filled with warmth. "You've already made us proud, Arnold. But the road ahead won't be easy. Stay strong, and remember who you are."
Arnold met their gazes, his resolve hardening. "I won't let you down."
As the meeting ended, Arnold knew one thing for certain: his journey was just beginning.