Babel Novel
Chapter 3
Chapter 3
Chapter 3 The First Trial
Osborne's heart raced as he processed the Godfather's proposal.
In Rosmandi, no man could resist the allure of becoming a figure as powerful as the Godfather.
But surely, it couldn't be that straightforward.
The Godfather's empire was vast, spanning every industry in Rosmandi, making it a colossal commercial behemoth. His influence was equally formidable, commanding over a hundred thousand men with intricate networks of power and alliances.
Osborne doubted his ability to control such an empire.
If he were to inherit everything now, the Godfather's empire would likely collapse, and his influence would disintegrate.
Why would the Godfather make such a decision?
With a furrowed brow, Osborne asked, "Do you really think I'm capable?"
The Godfather smiled, "Child, you are calm and collected.
"But no, you're not ready, not by a long shot. To become my heir, you must prove yourself through a series of tests that will challenge your courage, wisdom, cunning, and charisma."
Osborne sighed, his suspicions confirmed.
The Godfather continued, "I will set ten trials for you. Each trial you complete will earn you a portion of my wealth and power. Once you've completed all ten, you will become the new Godfather.
"But be warned, these trials are perilous. Once you start, there's no turning back. If you fail, you will gain nothing and may even meet a terrible end."
Osborne frowned, contemplating the risks.
"Kid, if you prefer not to take such risks, I can give you one billion dollars in cash and send you to a safe place where you can live as a wealthy man." NôvelDrama.Org exclusive content.
"One billion dollars in cash?!" Osborne exclaimed, almost ready to accept immediately.
One billion dollars was enough for a lifetime of luxury.
Even a wealthy family like the Caldwells, boasting one billion dollars in assets, wouldn't have nearly that amount in liquid cash.
One billion dollars was a fortune beyond his wildest dreams.
Yet, compared to the Godfather's untold trillions of dollars, it was insignificant.
How could he settle for it when he had the chance to inherit everything from the Godfather?
He wanted to be the heir.
He wanted to become the new Godfather!
Although it was incredibly dangerous, Osborne knew that only by facing these trials could he make Ophelia regret her actions and earn the right to confront the Godfather himself, demanding to know why he had been abandoned.
"I want to be your heir!" Osborne declared with firm resolve.
"No matter how dangerous it gets or what it costs me, I'll pass your tests and prove myself!"
The godfather finally smiled, a hint of warmth in his eyes.
It was clear that if Osborne had chosen otherwise, he wouldn't have been acknowledged as family.
"Very well, you're even greedier than I imagined.
"Since you've chosen this path, you'll have to face the consequences alone. No special treatment from me. Everything you want must be earned through these trials.
"Power, wealth, influence, women, all of these are part of my trials. But even if you die during them, I won't save you. Are you sure you don't want to reconsider?
"Before greed lies the abyss."
Osborne shook his head without hesitation. "No need to reconsider! I've made my choice. Beyond ambition lies not just an abyss, but a whole new world! So, tell me, what's the first test?"
The godfather's eyes gleamed with approval. "Alright! The first test is simple. I want you to go to the Caldwell family and demand ten million dollars in cash as your divorce settlement."
"Ten million dollars?" Osborne exclaimed in surprise.
The godfather's expression turned icy. "I found you long ago, but you chose to live with the Caldwells, working like a slave. How could our family descendants be so humble?
"I only came to you today because you finally divorced. Remember, no one has the right to make you leave with nothing. So, you must go to the Caldwell family and claim what's rightfully yours.
"If you fail, you'll never inherit anything from me. I won't acknowledge you as my grandson. You'll be cast out forever," the Godfather said coldly.
Osborne took a deep breath.
The first test was already incredibly tough!
Given what Osborne knew about the Caldwell family, demanding a divorce settlement from them was as good as signing his death warrant.
But if he didn't go through with it, he'd lose any chance of earning the godfather's approval and becoming his heir.
Osborne's eyes narrowed with determination as he nodded firmly. "I'll make it happen!"
The godfather smiled knowingly, "Then go, show your guts and brains, prove you're worthy to inherit from me. Remember, a Augustine never suffers humiliation."
Osborne nodded again, glancing at the Godfather's image on the screen once more before stepping out and closing the car door.
He understood that failing the first trial meant the Godfather wouldn't consider him family at all.
With just one day to solve this challenge, he needed a solution, and fast.
Ten million dollars wasn't pocket change, even for the Caldwell family. They wouldn't hand it over, even if it meant his demise.
A commoner's life wasn't worth that much.
What could he possibly do?
Take on a wealthy family? That sounded like a death wish!
As Osborne paced down the street, ideas raced through his mind.
Suddenly, a general store caught his eye, sparking a wild idea.
Maybe this was his ticket to success.