Chapter 194 An Overwhelming Defeat

• "Hmm, it's not a scheme," Corey mused, his gaze fixed as he inhaled deeply from his cigarette. "It was more a matter of aligning forces with Miss Starry. She harbors a deep-seated loathing for the Starry Family, and I have my grievances with your lot. So, we exploited you to deal with the Starry Family, and in turn, we captured you. A perfect win-win scenario, wouldn't you agree?"
• The revelation nearly sent Esther into a fainting spell, her face contorted with rage. The truth hit her like a sledgehammer. All five generals, once considered her formidable assets, had been seized. She had clung to the illusion of control, only to find herself and her allies manipulated like puppets in Corey and Merrie's grand game.
• "Hahaha, it all makes sense now," Esther laughed, though the sound was hollow and edged with desolation. "You've outwitted us once again. Everything that followed the meeting was a meticulously crafted trap. You predicted we would capture Merrie, then used that very trade to lure us into your snare. You are truly merciless."