Chapter 3: Ch 3 : Stage
The Next Day...
"Boss, going alone is too dangerous. If word gets out that you're traveling without protection, hidden enemies could take advantage and attack," Drek said, his voice filled with concern.
"There's no need to worry, Drek. If you come with me, people will definitely recognize me. It's better I handle this alone and personally convince my idol," Don Victor replied calmly, stepping into his car.
"But... Boss, at least take someone for backup," Drek pressed, his worry evident as he tried to reason with him.
"Drek," Victor's voice turned cold, his piercing gaze locking on his subordinate. "Have you forgotten? This gang stands because of me. I built it with my own strength. Do you think I can't handle this on my own?"
"I... I'm sorry, Boss," Drek stammered, lowering his head in apology.
Without another word, Don Victor shut the car door and started the engine. As the car sped off toward City A, Drek stood silently, unable to shake the feeling of unease growing in his chest.
City A...
"Director Tames has finally decided to retire. Thank God! Now our films might have a chance to perform well in theaters," said a 55-year-old man, dressed sharply in a suit, lounging on a luxurious sofa.
Opposite him sat an 80-year-old man, frail and thin, yet exuding a quiet confidence that reflected a life of extraordinary achievements. This man was none other than the renowned Director Tames Kamron, whose legendary movie had once stunned the entire world.
"Hahaha... Director Jacob, don't embarrass me with such words," Tames replied with a humble smile. "It wasn't just my idea—it was the love and passion of the people that brought it to life. Unfortunately, this body of mine has reached its limit, and retirement is the only choice I have left."
"Hoho... There's no embarrassment in this, Director Tames. We are all proud of you. You created something that shocked the world and won the hearts of millions. Even when we try to replicate that magic, our films can't hold a candle to yours," Jacob said with a hint of admiration.
"You're too kind," Tames said modestly, a warm smile on his face, devoid of any arrogance.
"Have you announced your retirement news to the public yet?" Tarly asked, a hint of shock in his voice. The room was occupied by three men, seated comfortably, their conversation flowing naturally like close friends despite the difference in their ages.
Though Jacob and Tarly were also prominent figures in the industry, second only to Director Tames Kamron, their camaraderie blurred the lines of competition. If Tames Kamron's movies always ranked first, Jacob's and Tarly's creations constantly vied for the second and third spots. While they had never overtaken Tames, the rivalry had fostered mutual respect.
"No, I haven't shared it yet. I plan to announce it directly on stage," Tames Kamron said, a tinge of sorrow in his voice. Retirement wasn't something he wanted, but his body had reached its limits. Despite his unwavering will, he knew he couldn't continue and had reluctantly made peace with the decision.
"You're doing the right thing," Jacob replied with a heavy heart. "Still, it pains me to say that the world is losing a gem today."
Tames listened silently, his expression contemplative.
"Your last movie is releasing today, isn't it? How about the three of us watch it together?" Tarly suggested, attempting to lighten the somber mood.
"Of course, why not? We'll watch it after the award ceremony," Tames replied with a warm smile, his voice carrying a mix of pride and resignation.
Knock, knock.
"Sir, they're calling you to the stage," a bodyguard standing outside informed politely.
"Hmm... Okay," Tames said, gripping his walking stick as he rose to his feet. He moved toward the door with a measured pace, his frailty evident, while Jacob and Tarly followed closely behind.
Murmur...
The news reporters started discussing among themselves, trying to guess who in the entertainment industry was retiring. They had some suspicions, but nothing concrete.
"Hey, B News, have you gotten any updates on who's retiring?"
"No, we're just as confused as you are."
Sigh...
"It couldn't be... Great Director Tames Kamron, could it?"
"Maybe... but we'll know for sure in a little while."
Just then, a faint figure appeared on the stage, leaning on a walking stick—an elderly man.
"Oh my god... It's Director Tames Kamron!" one of the people in the crowd shouted.
"Yes, that's him!"
The spotlight fell on Kamron, revealing his face to the public. A microphone was set up in front of him, and eight bodyguards stood behind him.
"Hello everyone, how are you all? You must be surprised to see me here because I don't often make public appearances, but now, you might have guessed why I'm here. For those of you who haven't figured it out yet, I'm here to announce that I'm retiring from the industry."
"Fuck, this is huge news! Quickly, record every voice movement, cameraman!"
Chaos erupted among the reporters as everyone began to broadcast the news live, their faces filled with shock. No one had expected Director Tames Kamron to announce his retirement. In the industry, many people tend to talk around the main point before revealing the big news, but Director Tames made his announcement right at the start. The reporters, now nervous, began wondering if the footage was captured properly, if the camera angle was right, and if the live telecast was running smoothly without any issues.
Ring... ring...
"Hello?"
"Teras, the boss is coming alone. Stay on high alert. If you suspect anyone, shoot immediately without hesitation. I'll handle the rest," Drek ordered on the call to Teras, who was standing behind Director Tames on stage in a bodyguard's uniform.
Teras had delivered the news of Director Tames Kamron's retirement to his boss and had returned to City A last night, resuming his job. A few years ago, at the request of his boss, Teras became Director Tames' bodyguard, as Victor feared that someone might harm his idol. Therefore, Teras had been assigned to protect him.
"Yes, sir," Teras replied seriously. The five bodyguards around him were his men, and the remaining two had joined recently, a few months ago.
"Brother Teras, what happened?" asked a 25-year-old newly recruited bodyguard, turning to him.
"Ah... nothing," Teras replied, slightly irritated. In his mind, he thought," This newbie still has a lot to learn... he keeps asking about everything. I'll have to train him well for the future, so that when he joins my gang, he'll be more capable."
"Listen up, everyone. If you suspect anyone, shoot immediately without hesitation. This news will drive people crazy, and Director Tames Kamron's life will be in danger," Teras typed a coded message to the rest of the team. The message was clear: the boss is coming alone, and if anyone suspicious is seen near him, they are to be shot. The five experienced bodyguards understood the code, but the two new recruits were confused, making puzzled faces. After a few seconds, they understood the situation, and the message sank in: if anyone made suspicious movements near Director Tames, they should be shot without delay.
"Don't worry, Brother Teras, my sixth sense is very alert. If anyone comes too close to the Director, I'll shoot immediately," the newbie said confidently, his face showing a sense of pride as he was about to prove his abilities.
"What does this newbie think he understands from my code instructions? Ah... forget it, I need to focus on the boss right now," Teras muttered.
Sigh... "Alright, today I'll see the power of your sixth sense," Teras replied.
"Yeah, for sure," the newbie responded confidently, starting to heighten his alertness.
"Shit! Because of this traffic, I'm extremely late, and I've lost the chance to meet my idol privately," Don Victor said angrily after hearing the announcement of Director Tames Kamron's retirement over the speaker. He was now unable to back down. After making the announcement in front of everyone, he became firm in his decision. Victor's words no longer held any weight, and now he had only one option left — kidnapping.