9 False Accusations

After going through a tough month, Rafael was finally able to relax and be comfortable sitting beside his father and sister in the living room. They were all taking pleasure in each other's company as they enjoyed the calmness of their peaceful surroundings.

"Hey, you seem to be in a good mood today," commented Karl as he sipped on his whiskey.

"Yeah Dad, things are alright for the moment," replied Rafael. "I just wish our family could have more harmony."

"It's up next," Karl munched on a sandwich made by Bianca as the family watched TV and laughed at a funny flick. They savored popcorn, spent quality time together - something Karl typically did during his leisure or Saturday evening downtime. As everyone was enjoying themselves, Karl's phone interrupted their moment of joy with Charlie calling from home in a distressed and somber tone speaking to the head of Marino household.

"Hey Karl, some top-notch business people got caught by the military tonight," Charlie informed on the phone.

Karl was surprised and couldn't comprehend why would anyone get arrested by them. "But that doesn't make any sense," queried Karl.

Charlie replied, "I am clueless about it too. They simply took them prisoner and transported to an extremely dangerous detention house."

With those words, he disconnected the call. "There is something fishy going on here," said a suspicious Karl while Jiena turned down TV volume to hear commotion outside their home before someone rang their doorbell. At this point, anticipating trouble ahead of time, he instructed his family sternly - "Whatever happens now keep your siblings close together!"

"Dad, is everything okay?" asked Jiena with a frown. "Oh no, don't worry honey. I was just messing around," replied Karl nonchalantly while flipping through the newspaper.

"Can you get the door then? It's probably just the mailman delivering something," said Karl gesturing towards the front door without looking up from his paper. Jiena made her way towards to open the door when suddenly she found herself surrounded by military personnel holding high caliber firearms that startled her to an immobile state. She watched in shock as they approached and demanded for Senator Marino. Rafael stepped forward next to her in confusion wondering what was happening until he too saw their surroundings were now protected by officials armed for warfare.

"Da-," tried Jiena but realized quickly that her father had disappeared somewhere out of sight. Without delay or hesitation, one platoon sergeant commanded them all strictly:

"Search every corner of this compound!" The soldiers immediately began rummaging fervently throughout each region of their home.

The military searched the house and surrounding area, but Karl managed to escape without leaving any clues. The platoon leader asked Jiena and Rafael if they knew where their father went, but they were unsure. The leader informed them that he was wanted for serious crimes before leaving to continue monitoring the house.

Jiena was really scared for the first time ever and she couldn't hide it. She was panting, sweating and inconsolable when her siblings saw her in this state. To calm herself down, Jiena called Uncle Dave who is an ally of her father.

"The military came here to arrest dad," Jiena told him with a trembling voice.

Dave tried to comfort her by saying "Just focus on taking care of your younger siblings while I try reaching out to your father."

"What's going on? Where are they taking him?" Asked Jiena suspiciously prompting more questions about why this was happening.

"He's avoiding getting arrested and Bernadette is on top of it," Dave said.

"Why?" Jiena asked. "No idea, just stay in touch," Dave replied before ending the call.

--------

That night was a total nightmare for the Marino Siblings. They were just chilling with their dad, but things went haywire when he suddenly became a wanted criminal! The next day, they had to go to school like everything's okay. But really, they were still in shock from what happened and Rafael didn't utter a word during class.

"Hey Rafael, heard your dad's in trouble with the law and managed to escape," one of their classmates said, "Looks like a lot of big shot people are getting arrested too - even some Supreme Court justices and senators!"

"I get it, no need to shout," said Rafael, looking stressed as he sat down. Kanna was by his side holding his hand and trying to calm him down.

"Don't worry babe," she reassured him, "Senator Marino is a decent human being."

Rafael couldn't wrap his head around why someone would do something like this to his dad. Suddenly Jude walked in the room and gave Rafael a stern look.

"You know why your father was arrested?" Jude asked casually, taking a sip of his soda. "He did some criminal stuff - the usual jueteng lord and gang lord gig. But hey, let's not forget he also had other businesses like syndicates and prostitution rings. He basically ran everything in our area."

Rafael stood up abruptly from his chair upon hearing those words against his father. He grabbed Jude by the collar, angry as hell, which caused their classmates to intervene before things got physical. "How could you say that about my dad?" Rafael yelled at him.

Jude just shrugged it off while keeping calm: "But it's true though, isn't it? Your old man is on par with mine when it comes to being a high-grade criminal."

Just then Jiena chimed in: "And who are you trying to kid here? Let me remind you that your family operates jueteng too! Not only that but there's even talk about how one guy died because of your dad's dealings."

"Well, come on now Jude," stuttered Jiena in disbelief. "That's not even close to being true."

She couldn't believe what she had just heard him say - it was completely insulting! In her anger, she swung at Jude with her bare hands and knocked him down while choking him before walking out of the classroom with Rafael.

---------------

The next morning, the Marino siblings sat impatiently waiting for news. They all gathered around the television in anticipation of hearing updates on their father's conversation with the President from the night before. As they watched, a breaking report interrupted their program: Senators Gustavo Ojeda and Charlie Ong had escaped prison early that morning alongside Mayor Teddy Boy Lagman and businessmen Augusto Fadel and Jack Wang. The Justices of Supreme Court were fortunately released; however, Karl Marino was still missing. At this news, confusion clouded over the siblings' thoughts as fear began to grip them tightly. The gravity of their father's actions became more evident than ever before - his life might be taken at any moment because he acted without abandon or caution.

"I found him," Riko whispered, eyes on the TV. Rafael and his siblings were surprised to see their mom there. They greeted her with hugs and kisses.

"Mom, when did you get here?" Jiena asked in confusion,

"Just this morning," Riko replied, eyeing their car. "Rafael, get the car ready."

"Where are we going?" Rafael questioned curiously. "To meet your dad," Riko said, exhaling deeply

"We wanna come too!" Bianca begged excitedly. "Go change first," nodded Riko as she headed towards their bodyguards.

-----

As Riko entered the Japanese restaurant, she felt a sense of tranquility. The warm lighting and minimalist decor provided an atmosphere that allowed her to unwind after a long day. Alone at the bar counter sat Riko while her kids chattered excitedly five meters away from her. Suddenly, as if on cue, two people approached her. "Mrs. Marino," said the lady with a wide smile plastered across her face,

"I am overjoyed to see you again." Riko was pleasantly surprised but did not show it outwardly; instead responded graciously saying, "Thank you so much for accommodating us Dave and Bernadette."

After exchanging pleasantries, all eyes turned towards Karl's absence. With furrowed brows Riko asked softly: "Where is Karl?" Suddenly in possession of an ominous letter through which they hoped would provide insight into his whereabouts - Bernadette handed it to reluctantly investigate further...

"Karl is currently secure, strategizing the retaliation plan," Bernadette replied with an assured tone. Dave added to the conversation, "It seems that a high-ranking government official has been orchestrating this arrest under permission from the president himself."

The group fell into puzzled silence before Riko spoke up again. "But what could be their motive behind such actions? Is it political gain or something more sinister?" she wondered aloud as everyone contemplated on the possible answers.

Bernadette took a deep breath before speaking. "Your husband is incredibly influential, Riko," she began slowly, choosing each word carefully. "Being a member of the Penthouse group comes with certain responsibilities and dangers, particularly when you're dealing with drug dealers or enemies that threaten your business interests."

David interjected to add more information. "Ever since the attempts on both your lives, Karl has been tirelessly tracking down those responsible for these heinous acts," he said gravely. "He's determined to uncover who's trying to harm him as well as you."

Riko looked puzzled and concerned all at once; confusion evident in her furrowed brow as she spoke up: "But why would the government want my husband arrested?"

"The answer lies in what Karl can do - his abilities pose a significant threat to officials involved in unsavory dealings like prostitution or drugs," Bernadette explained patiently.

Silence enveloped them briefly before Riko broke it hesitantly: "So... What are we supposed to do?"

"Now that the secret is out, it's your turn to play a role," Dave said. "You'll have to deal with the argumentative first lady while Bernadette and I tackle these government officials."

"But won't you need protection?" Riko stuttered in fear. "Don't worry about us, Riko," Dave replied confidently.

"We're politicians too. As warlords, we share the same bond with your husband and can protect ourselves. Your job now is to look after your kids and confront the First Lady." Bernadette chimed in reassuringly,

"Karl has already devised a plan of action." "I trust Karl's decision-making skills," concluded Riko before calling it an evening.

Dave and Karl share a bond that extends far beyond the superficiality of their political alliance. Their connection is rooted in years of shared experiences, trials and tribulations. As the mayor of a town near Sierra de Oro, Dave has always been there for Karl, never hesitating to lend his support when needed. Bernadette, on the other hand, holds an altogether different mantle as both politician and lawyer representing one of the most powerful families in the region - Marino Clan. Despite this responsibility weighing heavily upon her shoulders, Bernadette possesses a rare quality among lawyers: she's guided by reason instead of mere interests or material gains. Together these individuals represent not only their own triumphs but also each others', standing strong through thick and thin like true friends should.

------

After a night at the restaurant, Rafael went home with his step-mom and siblings. He hit the bed right away but got interrupted by a call from Kanna.

"What's up?" Rafael whispered to her on the phone.

"You skippin' school for seven days straight, dude," Kanna said worriedly.

"Nah...I'm just helping Mom out; Dad's gone MIA."

"I wish I was there to cheer ya up," sighed Kanna wistfully.

"I can't get you off my mind, girl."

"Ditto...missing your face & jokes like crazy!"

"And I miss your eyes & smile loads, babe."

"Let's kick it after this drama ends - just us two!" Rafael chuckled before agreeing: "For sure! You have my word!"

Kanna then muttered "Love ya", which made Rafael feel mushy inside.

"Aww honeybunch..love you too... anyway gotta sleep now!' he replied hastily as he ended their sweet conversation and dozed off to la-la land.

-------------------

The following day was really tense. It wasn't until 9 in the morning that all of the foreign chambers of commerce got together for a meeting. Rafael and his siblings were at their penthouse corporate building with their step-mother, closely watching the investor's press conference on TV and paying attention to every single word being said.

"Ma'am, you have an appointment with the First Lady at two this afternoon," Riko's secretary informed her.

"You're about to meet up with some big shot lady who is married to the most powerful man in our country," Laura jokingly said.

"I don't even want to know why she wants to see me," replied Riko nonchalantly while doing some light makeup on herself.

The meeting started a bit after nine in the morning. The heads of various foreign business groups gathered around one table and made a statement criticizing the government and president. "We, foreigners who took risks by investing here in this promising land called Philippines are worried about widespread corruption as well as unfair persecution of Senators Karl Marino, Charlie Ong, Gustavo Ojeda; Mayor Teddy Boy Lagman; Augusto Fadel and Jack Wang," said the leader of one group. "We're also concerned with Finance Department Secretary Jimmy Arias' extortion activities alongside Treasury Department Secretary Enrique Barreiro's misconducts... We urge these two to step down before investors lose confidence which can have negative impacts on this country's economy."

At precisely two o'clock in the afternoon, a sleek black car pulled up to the grand entrance of one of Penthouse Seven Building. Out stepped Philippines's revered first lady; her poised elegance was accentuated by her tasteful outfit and perfectly coiffed hair that seemed almost like a royal crown upon her head. After stepping inside, she proceeded towards the penthouse where awaited an emblematic portrait of Asia's most celebrated seven sages - a true symbol of wisdom and sagacity.

Riko Marino stood attentively at the door to greet this distinguished guest. The room radiated with sophisticated splendor as sunlight streamed through floor-to-ceiling windows casting warm rays onto surrounding walls adorned with priceless paintings.

"It is my honor to finally meet you," uttered Riko graciously whilst offering a cordial handshake. The esteemed visitor took seat opposite Riko, basking in awe at such luxurious decor worthy only for individuals highly invested in their craft or position within society.

"I must discuss something quite important." began the first lady "It pertains to your involvement regarding foreign chamber testimonies."

Not one inch out-of-place nor tonality off-kilter did Riko respond calmly: "Their statements were decided by consensus- not mine".

"Perhaps so", replied the First Lady slowly drinking tea from cup

"Okay, tell me this," replied Riko. "Why would your husband and his team want to detain and put an end to my spouse and his supporters?"

"Our goal is tranquility for this country. If we remove my hubby's enemies from the picture, our dream of a peaceful republic will come true," responded the first lady with intense determination in her eyes.

Riko chuckled to herself, taking a sip from her glass of wine as she listened to the First Lady speak. Despite their differences in education and background, both women had found themselves married to powerful men and honing their acting skills on the public stage.

But Riko couldn't help but question the logic behind using violence to silence political opponents. "Madam First Lady," she began, setting down her glass with a soft clink. "I may not have your degree in psychology, but I do know something about human behavior. And let me tell you - wiping out your enemies won't be as simple as it sounds." She leaned forward slightly in her chair, fixing the other woman with an intense gaze. "My husband will retire in six years' time too," she continued evenly. "And while he has no plans for further political office at present...well, who knows what might change if this sort of harassment continues? We all learned logic back in school - sometimes you need to play the long game.

"Mrs. Marino!" exclaimed the first lady with anger evident in her tone.

Riko quickly sprung up from her seat and shot a fierce glare at the first lady. "You and your husband started all this mess against my man. Don't you think it's just not right?"

"I mean, I could provide an option for you to leave for the Philippines without any trouble," suggested the First Lady as Karl's political colleagues stood by silently seething over what she said to Riko.

"For crying out loud! What a cold-hearted woman!" muttered Senator Deleganza under his breath while Riko turned away from the scene before her and gazed blankly at the skyline.

Retry

"You see, politics and showbiz are like apples and oranges. The issue is - you've taken on your show business persona and disregarded the fact that serving the public requires another approach," Riko remarked in a casual tone.

"You're a benevolent woman, but once politics gets hold of you, it changes who you fundamentally are." "I'll always bear this in mind," bellowed the first lady as she stormed out of her luxurious suite while Riko merely grinned before resuming his seat nonchalantly.

"Now what?" Senator Sonsona from Central Visayas inquired curiously.

"They just played their hand poorly," said Riko between puffs of smoke emanating from his freshly lit cigarette as he switched on the television set.

-------------------

Amidst the allegations made by the chamber of commerce, the wrongly accused secretaries decided to face media scrutiny and called for a press conference. Secretary Arias started his speech, delving deeper into what he believes is a bigger conspiracy at work.

"I believe that this is not just an isolated incident but rather a part of something more insidious orchestrated by dirty politicians like Karl Marino," he said sternly while maintaining eye contact with reporters. As expected in such heated situations, chaos ensued when an activist from the crowd interjected with their opinion challenging Arias' statement about Karl-Marino's intentions.

"You are wrong! You're somehow craving power as much as these people," retorted the agitated protester which further escalated tensions. The surroundings were tense but then out-of-the-blue arrived Charlie Ong, Gustavo Ojeda alongside Teddy Boy Lagman accompanied by none other than law enforcement officials. Recognizing each other quickly they exchanged marks before resuming fateful paths towards Barreiro- one secretary who was trying to assert authority over proceedings-" I request you arrest them immediately!" asserted Barriero loudly Mockingly grinning at him condescendingly, Ojeda stepped forward: "Actually sir…here's YOUR warrant" recalling fainting briefly how

Retry

Senator Marino towered over Secretary Arias, his expression hard and unyielding. The secretary begged for mercy, pleading that he was merely following orders. His desperate plea echoed through the empty hallway as he fell to his knees and clung to Karl's legs. Karl's eyes narrowed at this obedient display of submission. He felt no pity - only the lingering taste of fury towards those who sought to dismantle order in their otherwise peaceful capital city.

"Who gave you those orders?" Karl spoke sharply, every word piercing like a sword through air thick with tension.

"The Dragon Lord," replied Secretary Arias, his voice quivering with fear as Gustav quickly hurried over towards them both. Despite their fear-ridden expressions, neither Gustav nor Karl had heard of anyone named 'The Dragon Lord.'

"I haven't heard of him before," stated Gustav matter-of-factly whilst casting a curious glance towards Karl. Scoffing in disbelief at Secretary Arias' reference to such an unknown figurehead whom none but himself seems aware of; Karls furrowed brows lifted upwards upon reaching home whereupon lie welcome greetings from all three children - each one embracing him warmly while blessed Riko showered her warm fatherly snuggles amidst kisses gently placed on

--Chapter End--