When they returned home, neither of the women was present. Elaine was still out enjoying a game of cards, while Claire was still at work.

Charlie made his way back to his bedroom, carefully retrieving the lightning-struck wood from its box.

A powerful Reiki energy seemed to emanate from the wood.

Settling on the floor in a cross-legged position, Charlie placed the wood in his palm, closed his eyes, and focused on the mental techniques outlined in the Apocalyptic Book. He slowly inhaled the Reiki, drawing it into his body.

Upon opening his eyes, he noticed a sparkling rejuvenation; he could feel a significant shift in the aura within him.

Conversely, the Lightning Strike Dragon Blood Wood in his hand appeared somewhat dimmer.

Even though it had lost some of its Reiki, a potent thunderous energy still lingered, confirming that the wood was indeed a valuable treasure.

If he had any other magical items with him, he could potentially use them to create some basic magical artifacts.

By the time he left his room, darkness had settled in.

As he entered the living room, Elaine scoffed, “Oh, VIP, now that you’re feeling so full of yourself, you can’t even bother to cook dinner? You expect me to serve you?”

Charlie offered a wry smile and replied, “Sorry, Mom. I was exhausted and ended up falling asleep.”

“Oh, exhausted from your auction visit, or from framing Harold?” Elaine shot back, visibly irritated.

Charlie frowned in confusion, shaking his head. “I didn’t frame Harold. What are you talking about?”

Elaine erupted in anger, “Lady Wilson called me! It’s bad enough you’re embarrassing yourself, but now you’ve caused Harold to get kicked out of the venue! Grandma scolded me because of you! Can’t you just keep out of trouble for once?”

Claire chimed in, “Mom, I think Harold must have done something to get kicked out. This isn’t Charlie’s fault.”

“How is it not his fault?” Elaine slammed her fork and spoon down in frustration. “After Harold returned home, he complained that Charlie obtained the invitation card through shady means. The Treasure Pavilion found out and they were furious! As a Wilson family member, Harold was kicked out too! The president even declared that the Wilson family is unwelcome there! We’re in deep trouble!”

Jacob interjected, “Wait a minute! The invitation cards were completely legitimate. I suspect Harold caused some trouble himself and is blaming Charlie to avoid punishment…”

“You’re siding with the loser now? If it weren’t for your eagerness to attend that ridiculous auction, none of this would’ve happened!” Elaine glared at Jacob, who quickly turned his attention to his plate.

Elaine continued, her impatience growing, “He’s just a deadbeat; there’s no way he could have gotten the invitation. Now he’s crossed Harold too. I’m curious to see how he’ll deal with this…”

Before she could finish her thought, a knock echoed through the house, followed by a low voice asking, “Excuse me, is Mr. Wade home?”

Elaine’s expression shifted to one of anxiety as she glared at Charlie, exclaiming, “Oh no! It must be Lady Wilson! She’s sent someone to interrogate you! Look what you’ve done!”

“Let’s find out who it is,” Claire said, her tone serious as she stood up and walked toward the door.

The living room fell silent, like a church, as Elaine and Jacob stood nervously, contemplating how to handle the impending confrontation.

Meanwhile, Charlie wore a grim expression. If it truly was Lady Wilson who had come to cause trouble, he wouldn’t feel the need to show her any mercy!