Chapter 60: Florida's Crime Boss

Joseph went to Florida not just to confront Cardiff about the past but also to understand what he had done to make Cardiff betray him. Was it something he had done wrong, or had Cardiff hated him from the beginning? This distinction would determine how Joseph would deal with Cardiff—either giving him a quick death or a slow, painful one. Azazel and the others soon arrived in Florida. They stood atop the tallest building, looking down at the city. Samael calmly called Joseph. "Boss, Florida is not what it used to be. It’s more dangerous than we anticipated." Joseph asked calmly, "Tell me what you know." "Cardiff is Mr. Pix’s brother-in-law. Cardiff controls the largest commercial center in Florida, while Pix is the kingpin of the entire underground network here! Together, they control Florida entirely. Pix was involved with mercenaries in the past and is quite skilled. He also has five powerful subordinates, each formidable in their own right, and his army consists of around a thousand men. Compared to San Francisco, Florida’s underground network is much larger and more dangerous." Joseph remained unfazed. "I see." Seeing Joseph's serious expression, Azazel asked, "Reaper, what should we do now? The enemy is strong; we need to plan carefully." After a moment of silence, Joseph said, "I must find out the truth from back then. Cardiff must pay for his betrayal." "But with our current manpower, taking on Pix and his forces will be extremely difficult," Azazel said with concern. Joseph’s eyes were resolute. "Don't worry. I have a plan. First, we need to investigate Pix and his operations to find their weaknesses. Remember, for me, none of this is insurmountable. Hatred can push my power to its limits." Everyone knew Joseph well and understood his capabilities. If Joseph said he could do it, they believed him. Azazel nodded. "Understood. We trust your judgment. We will support you fully." Joseph looked at the bustling city of Florida and silently vowed to make Cardiff and Pix pay for their sins. "Years ago, I treated Cardiff as a true brother, but now look at us. If it weren’t for his betrayal, I wouldn’t be in this position. I even helped him build his business center and gave him half the shares because I pitied him. And now look where we are!" Joseph's voice grew increasingly pained. "To me, he is a traitor who took advantage and betrayed me. This is a deep-seated hatred! If I don't avenge myself against Cardiff, I won’t be able to live as a man! And Pix? If he stands in my way, he will be dealt with just like Cardiff. I will not let them stop me!" Hearing his words, everyone agreed unanimously. Samael, however, couldn't help but voice his concern. "Boss, if we go through with this, the impact could be significant. It might be dangerous for us." Joseph was indifferent. "Are you doubting my abilities? For me, all of this is manageable because I know I will succeed if I set my mind to it." Samael naturally had no more objections after hearing this. However, Azazel remembered someone. "What about Sandy? Wouldn't this put her in a difficult position?" Sandy, the mayor of Florida, had been saved by Joseph and his team abroad. She had always said her life belonged to Joseph because of that. If Joseph’s quest for revenge made things difficult for her, the whole of Florida could be thrown into chaos. Joseph waved his hand. "Don't worry about Sandy. I’ll handle her. The priority is finding Cardiff's weakness and formulating a comprehensive plan. Also, you might not fully understand the situation in Florida. Pix’s power has surpassed that of Sandy and the authorities. I believe the FBI and local police have long wanted to act against Pix. If we strike, we will have the advantage. Sandy won't be troubled; instead, various factions in Florida might even assist us." Joseph confidently analyzed, "We can ally with these forces to combat Pix. But first, we need to gather more intelligence, understand Pix’s whereabouts, and his daily routines." Azazel nodded. "I will arrange for our men to investigate." Joseph's gaze turned cold. "This mission must succeed. Cardiff must pay for his betrayal." "Understood," Samael said, astonished by Joseph's clarity. "As expected, Reaper, your vision is far clearer than ours!"