Chapter 1015

Elias could have chosen to side with Gerard. But with the Roe family already allied with Gerard, doing so would've been a major blow to his pride—and to the Carpenter family's reputation as the leading house among Tarthy's four most prestigious families. It would make them look weak and undermine their influence.

More importantly, there was no guarantee Gerard would even accept the offer. After all, their entire plan hinged on carving up the Carpenter family assets. If Elias tried to get a seat at that table, who would be left for them to exploit?

In any power play, someone has to be the sacrifice. The Carpenter family, with its vast resources and power, was the most profitable target. There was more than enough to go around.

Given Elias' pride and his long-standing feud with the Roes and Trevells, there was no way he'd lower himself to grovel before an alliance. Hence, it was better to join forces with the Lycans than to disgrace himself.

The Carpenters had deep roots in Tarthy City, including a strong influence in government and a wide network. If they could join forces with the mysterious, formidable Lycans, they wouldn't need to fear the Roes, the Trevells, or even Gerard.

Still, they needed another strong alliance to ensure nothing went wrong.

"Do you have anyone in mind?" Jack asked.

Elias replied, "The Gould family. They're one of the old powerhouses. Our families have been close for generations, and I have a strong relationship with Jett Gould, the current family head. I'm confident they'll back us."

With the Goulds on board, their strength would double overnight. The advantage would be immediate and undeniable.

"Perfect." Jack nodded, satisfied.

Time was of the essence. The very next day, Elias and Jack arranged a visit to the Gould residence to meet with Jett, the head of the Gould family.

Though still in his 30s, Jett had already proven himself a capable and decisive leader. He had taken over the sprawling Gould family enterprise, and in only a few years, doubled the family's wealth.

Under his leadership, the Gould family rose from the bottom of Tarthy's four great families to rival the Carpenters for second place, surpassing even the Roes. Even his father had stepped aside willingly, convinced of Jett's strength and vision.

That morning, Elias called Jack and sent a car to pick him up from the Lycan residence. The two then headed to the Gould residence together.

Perched halfway up a scenic mountain, the Gould residence was massive and grand. After passing through several layers of security, their motorcade finally arrived at the main gates.

Beyond the entrance was a vast courtyard lined with elegant buildings, towering sculptures, and perfectly trimmed lawns. It felt more like a castle than a private home.

Just as they were pulling in, they noticed another convoy of cars arriving. Jack caught sight of Patrick and Peter inside one of the vehicles. It was only a brief glance, but Jack guessed that Patrick had come for the same purpose of winning over the Gould family. And they had arrived first.

When Elias and Jack reached the entrance of the estate, Jett was already there waiting to greet them with a small group of attendants.

Jett gave off an immediate impression of poise and refinement. The gold-rimmed glasses on his face added to his scholarly demeanor, but also acted as a veil, hiding the sharp mind beneath.

Only the occasional flash of intensity

in his eyes betrayed the truth.

Behind his polished appearance was a man of ambition and calculation.

For someone not yet 30 to commandra family like the Gould's, there was no doubt Jett was the real deal.