PART 61

After lunch, the four of them sat on the sofa and chatted. Mrs. Robert had freshly ground coffee on the root carving coffee table.

The host on the big-screen TV was reporting on the tragedy that had occurred the previous night.

The image he showed was a pattern of a 'blood clown' painted on the wall.

"How does it look? My work is beautiful, isn't it?"

Harley had a proud expression, like that of a primary school student who had helped an old lady cross the road and was now waiting for the teacher's praise.

Originally, she had wanted to paint a clown's face, but since the blood didn't solidify, the entire pattern was dripping with blood.

However, this made the clown's face even more terrifying.

Who was the artist behind this painting?

What did this painting symbolize?

These issues had become the focus of discussion between the police and the media.

Various analyses have been conducted regarding the blood clown painting found on the wall, with some speculating it to be a mere random graffiti by a mentally ill individual, while others believe it to be a provocation by the escaped prisoners towards the police. However, the majority seem to support the notion that it represents a criminal organization, with the escaped prisoners being members of said group. Despite this, the identity of the organization's leader and their objective remain unknown, leaving both the police and the media to engage in conjecture.

With no concrete evidence available, only speculation and guesswork can be employed to decipher the situation. It is likely that answers to these questions will only be revealed upon the capture of the escaped prisoners. After discussing the blood clown painting, the TV coverage switched to the scene.

In the Drug Enforcement Administration Headquarters office, Officer Steinfeld, dressed in a police uniform, sat at his desk while being interviewed by the media.

The Long Island Prison is under the jurisdiction of four departments. The prison director, Daniel, was killed by Jason, and the other two directors resigned. Only the Drug Enforcement Administration Director, Stanfield, remained in his position.

Naturally, he became the focus of the media interviews.

As always, he maintained a serious expression, stood upright, and criticized drug dealers as usual.

In the eyes of New York citizens, the Drug Enforcement Administration Director is much more appealing than other high-ranking police officials. He has demonstrated tangible political accomplishments and has not wasted taxpayers' money.

However, Jason and his accomplices found Steinfeld's serious expression comical.

The scene cuts back to the studio, where the host excitedly reports on the Drug Enforcement Administration's record from the previous night.

Hundreds of drug dealers were killed, several tons of marijuana were confiscated, and a Mexican drug lord was arrested and brought to justice. This dealt a severe blow to the underground marijuana network in New York.

Moreover, the Drug Enforcement Administration was able to locate Kingpin, the notorious gang leader who had been operating in New York for many years.

At the New York port terminal, they discovered 17 containers of illegal materials worth over one billion US dollars, once again setting a historical record.

Despite Kingpin's eventual death in a gang shootout, the Drug Enforcement Administration received recognition for their contributions, and the nation lauded their efforts.

Compared to other law enforcement agencies, the Drug Enforcement Administration has become known as a conscientious department serving the people.

Due to their accomplishments, the Drug Enforcement Administration had become a trusted and respected law enforcement agency among the public, and in recognition of their credit, the President decided to award Steinfeld the highest military Medal of Honor, which was a first for a law enforcement agency in the United States.

Shortly after, Jason received a call from Steinfeld, who was thrilled about the award and boasted about becoming the first inactive soldier in the country to receive the Medal of Honor.

Jason put the call on speaker, and the group listened to Steinfeld's excitement and pride. Franklin, however, spoke to the phone with envy and hatred, claiming that the President's award to Steinfeld was the greatest tragedy in the country. Steinfeld laughed and teased Franklin, leading to Franklin's angry curses.

John Wick and Stan were not familiar with each other, so John just smiled and said nothing.

Harley leaned over and said, "Hey Stan, when is the award ceremony? After you get the medal, can I borrow it for a few days it match my new outfit?"

Stan was frightened and didn't dare to speak. He knew that if he allowed someone to use the Medal of Honor as a fashion accessory, he would face severe consequences.

To change the subject, Stan asked Jason, "With Kingpin death, do you have any interest in becoming the new king of New York's underworld?"

Jason became serious and replied, "Of course, the illegal goods trade in New York generates billions of dollars in profits every year. I have been eyeing this opportunity for a long time. But with New York in a state of emergency, and even the army coming in to help the police, it won't be easy to make a move."

Stan replied, "True, but danger also brings opportunity. With me behind you, the opportunity is much greater than the risk."

"I have some news to share," Stan began. "This morning alone, over a dozen out-of-town gangs and thousands of gang members entered New York, all here to grab territory."

"Time is money. If we sit idly by, by the time the state of emergency in New York is lifted, the market's profits will have already been divided,"

Jason replied confidently. "As a gangster, strength is always key. They can divvy up the pie in New York as they please. And when they're done, I'll even bring the plate to them.

Harley and the others were thrilled by Jason's words, their faces flushed with excitement.

Stan admired Jason's decision and said, "I won't say more. Your decision may be the right one. Let's keep in touch, and I'll notify you as soon as there is any news."

"Great, just get busy preparing for the award ceremony," Jason said before hanging up the phone and walking slowly to the door.

The bright blue sky, fluffy clouds, and gentle breeze create a serene atmosphere. The tall, lush trees release fresh air, and the chirping of insects and birds fills the air. Cattle and sheep leisurely graze in the nearby pasture.

Since joining the gang, Jason's nerves have been on edge constantly. But if one's nerves are too tense, they can break. At that time, he was helpless and had to bear the pressure and difficulties alone to survive.

But now, things are different. The ranch's location is secure, and there's no immediate worry of being caught by the police. Jason wanted to take advantage of this moment to rest and enjoy the peaceful life with beautiful women.

"Let's go horseback riding!" Harley exclaimed, already dressed in a professional harness and dashing out of the villa with excitement.

As a criminal psychology scholar, Harley deals with a group of neurotic prisoners every day and can become weary after prolonged exposure. She too relishes in a relaxed and comfortable lifestyle.

"Sounds good," Jason replied, taking her hand and leading her towards the stables.