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Dragon Emperor in Pokemon World.

The return of Itachi

I am Sasuke. Why should I defect from Konoha.

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***

On the morning of July 1, 2005, a large number of media gathered at Police Plaza in Lower Manhattan.

As the headquarters of the New York Police Department, it was exceptionally lively today to honor a heroic police officer.

The Police Headquarters auditorium was already full of officers, and Old Mike, the Police Commissioner, Raymond Kelly, dressed in a black suit, was chatting with Lee in a corner.

The commendation ceremony had not yet begun.

Their hero was still on the way.

The brave police officer was injured while pursuing a drug suspect in the Bronx, and the Violent Crime Division of the Southern District Federal Prosecutor’s Office was responsible for the related case at the time.

The drug suspect fled to Brownsville in southern Texas, and coincidentally, the Black police officer, Patrick Caprice, encountered him during his vacation.

A fierce gun battle erupted.

As the Black police officer, Patrick Caprice, emptied his clip, his left arm, abdomen, and chest were also injured.

If not for a bulletproof vest blocking a bullet, the Black police officer would likely have died on the spot.

Wexler, as the director of the Violent Crime Division, had always cooperated with the New York Police Department.

The previous failed arrest caused this accident, and to prevent the officers from feeling disheartened, she naturally had to express her regards.

“At that time, Caprice’s partner abandoned him and left. This incident caused a bad impression, but we all understand such a choice.”

“Every year, New York police officers die from gunshot wounds. This is not their responsibility.”

Commissioner Kelly, with a bald forehead, said this with a frown, the deep wrinkles on his face making him appear even older.

Wexler, beside him, was wearing a dark blue professional suit, with somewhat wide trousers covering her expanding waist.

She nodded in agreement, then made a promise:

“We have always tried our best to avoid such accidents. Caprice is a hero, and he will be compensated for the injuries he sustained.”

Lee, standing behind, was also in a black suit.

He watched the increasing number of police officers in the auditorium and whispered:

“My personal foundation will cover all of his medical expenses. Heroes should receive the best treatment, including his subsequent rehabilitation. The New York Police Department doesn’t need to worry either.”

“The bulletproof vest did a great job, Mr. Kelly. I will increase my support for the police department’s equipment.”

Although Lee had said these words several times, Raymond Kelly, still smiled when he heard them:

“Lee, our Patrol Services Bureau will thank you for your support. You are a true New Yorker!”

“…”

Lee secretly rolled his eyes.

Every year, he donated to the fire department and police department, but this money didn’t significantly improve the lives of grassroots personnel.

What made him feel relieved was that his own community was very safe, and he could always see the New York Police Department at night.

The Bronx has 12 precincts, and every time Wexler went there, she would receive some care.

Overall, the investment over the years was not in vain.

Around 9 o’clock, Wexler tidied her ponytail and quietly tugged at Lee.

Soon, cheers and thunderous applause erupted in the auditorium.

Patrick Caprice, in a police uniform, walked onto the stage with a slight limp.

The officers and media below cheered loudly.

Commissioner Kelly, first gave a moving speech, and then the Black police officer, Caprice, was sworn in as a detective in front of everyone.

“Staying calm under pressure, charging into gunfire, Caprice has shown us the heroic spirit of a New York police officer!”

“…”

The injured Caprice had tears in his eyes. Below the stage, his wife and four children were also sobbing.

The applause in the auditorium grew even more enthusiastic.

The officer was promoted, and Michael Osgood, the head of the Violent Crime Task Force, was also promoted to Deputy Inspector.

The White Deputy Inspector, with a slicked-back hairstyle, looked at the moving scene below and somewhat deliberately wiped the corners of his eyes.

Looking at Wexler, who was clapping continuously, Osgood said with some regret:

“Wexler, are you planning to leave the crime department in the future? We’ve cooperated very well these past few years.”

Wexler shook her head, looked at Lee, who was surrounded by four children below the stage, and said calmly:

“Prosecutor Charles has approved my application. In the future, I may handle more financial cases, which is what I’m good at.”

“My blessings to you. I heard it’s a boy?”

Osgood smiled and offered his blessings. Wexler chuckled and shook her head:

“Not sure yet. We don’t care about the gender.”

To fulfill the wishes of the hero’s family, Lee also specially came today to be a mascot.

Caprice’s wife was an ordinary, somewhat plump woman.

Besides being a bit loud, there was nothing special about her.

Facing the media reporters, the woman grabbed Lee and cried especially sadly, continuously expressing her gratitude.

Due to the police officers’ salary cuts in recent years, post-injury recovery would cost a large sum of money, which would completely drain a family’s savings.

“Thank you, Lee. We cannot express our gratitude enough. You saved our entire family.”

Lee could only hug the emotional family member to offer comfort.

Soon, the New York Media came forward to interview and take photos.

Two boys with curly hair were huge fans of Lee.

After the sadness passed, they hugged their idol and wouldn’t let go.

Soon, a New York Times reporter interviewed the two little ones:

“Your father is a hero of New York. We are proud of you. When you grow up, do you also want to become a glorious New York police officer?”

The somewhat chubby boy first looked up at Lee, then, facing the kneeling reporter, gathered his courage and said loudly:

“No, I want to play basketball. I want to become a big star like Lee, earn more money, and have more girlfriends.”

Lee, who was patting his head, could only give an awkward smile.

The woman almost died of anger because of her son.

She immediately gave the little chubby boy a slap on the back of his neck, making him purse his lips and fall silent.

The New York Times reporter almost laughed out loud.

They were old acquaintances with Lee.

Standing up straight, he immediately teased him in a low voice:

“Don’t worry, Lee, this news won’t appear in tomorrow’s newspaper, but you should also consider a proper girlfriend.”

The unlucky child received his mother’s righteous iron fist.

As more and more people gathered in the auditorium, Lee shrugged his shoulders and simply responded to the gloating crowd beside him:

“I don’t think everyone is interested in my private life. After all, I’m just an ordinary basketball player.”

“…”

Not far from the New York Police Department headquarters were the headquarters of several newspapers.

The commendation ceremony this morning was quickly reported by multiple media outlets.

Heroes being cared for, and children’s idols generously donating, are the kind of news ordinary citizens like to see.

Mark Bartelstein had reminded Lee that showing off wealth would lead to fan resentment.

If most fans knew that Lee bought Peninsula Manor in Greenwich in full, it’s estimated that many would unfollow him.

Basketball players can live well, but not too well.

Today was Friday, and with the upcoming July 4th Independence Day holiday, on the way home at noon, Lee hugged Wexler in the car and suggested:

“Do you want to go straight back to Greenwich? The air is better there.”

Wexler, who had taken off her jacket and was wearing a blue shirt, thought for a moment but shook her head and refused:

“Let’s stay in Manhattan. Aren’t you going to the Tarrytown Training Center these few days? It’s closer that way.”

Old Mike, who was driving in front, glanced at the rearview mirror and suggested in a deep voice:

“Recently, there have been more reporters taking photos. Going to Peninsula Manor is a better choice.”

Thanks to Scarlett strolling with her mother in Los Angeles with her pregnant belly, more onlookers began to pay attention to Lee’s private life.

Hugging the girl in his arms tightly, Lee felt this was not a big deal and obediently said:

“Then let’s stay in Manhattan. We’ll just change the chef these next few days.”

A new family member will arrive in October.

Wexler snuggled closer.

She was very much looking forward to her future life.

On the afternoon of the 1st, James Dolan, acting as interim General Manager, announced the official signing of the No. 30 Rookie, David Lee.

Perhaps because it was the first player he had been fully involved in selecting, the curly-haired owner invited many media to the Tarrytown Training Center to witness it.

David Lee, with his curly hair, was clearly startled, not understanding why the owner valued him so much.

Although he was a rich second-generation, this didn’t add to his basketball skills.

In fact, in the eyes of some teams, it was even a minus.

The holiday was approaching.

The New York Knicks’ training camp would begin next Wednesday.

From the 15th to the 19th, 19 players would travel together to Minneapolis for the Summer League.

At that time, the New York Knicks would play five games, against the Houston Rockets, Toronto Raptors, Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Timberwolves, respectively.

The media gathered at the Tarrytown Training Center, not only to witness David Lee but also to pay more attention to the news that Ron Artest would also play in the Summer League.

TNT believed that Ron Artest’s inclusion would make this year’s Summer League more interesting.

Many fans who enjoyed the drama were even betting online whether Ron Artest would still throw punches when provoked.

In the media room, David Lee was a bit nervous.

James Dolan almost praised him to the heavens:

“Don’t doubt my professional eye. When Kurt Thomas’s form declines, David will take on this responsibility.”

“New and old changing over, of course I know this, and this is also why I chose David. Our core is still young, and he can grow with the team.”

James Dolan, wearing a New York Knicks championship T-shirt, tried to make himself look more professional.

However, as soon as he finished speaking, a reporter quickly found fault and asked:

“We’re not sure about David Lee’s ability. Perhaps we can see his performance in the Summer League.”

“But what I want to ask is, does the New York Knicks have a bias?”

The New York Knicks were often complained about for being “too white,” not just the players, but even the cheerleaders received criticism.

Coupled with the fact that most of the management were also white, this was the reason for the New York Daily News reporter’s question.

Hearing that the other party was trying to accuse them again, James Dolan immediately said impatiently:

“We only focus on player ability. Who cares about racism?”

“If you think this is a bias, then who would be better than David at the 30th pick?”

David Lee couldn’t interject, so he could only smile politely, but his mind became increasingly confused, always feeling that he had received special treatment.

Fortunately, the New York Post reporter did not make things difficult for him afterwards, and kindly asked David Lee:

“David, joining the New York Knicks and about to play with Clay Lee, what are your expectations for your Rookie season?”

David Lee knew that he would most likely “ride the bench,” but when answering the question, he immediately turned into a “sycophant”:

“I’m very excited. Being able to play with the greatest player in history, this is a dream come true for me.”

“I will train hard and strive to get more playing time. The New York Knicks are the reigning champions, and I still have a lot to learn.”

“My goal for the new season is to get into the rotation. I will do my best to help the team!”

James Dolan seemed very satisfied with these words and immediately added:

“I see David Lee’s potential. Without a doubt, he will become Clay Lee’s helper.”

Facing the questioning gazes of many reporters, David Lee forced a smile on his face, feeling completely numb.

He was just a late-round pick, so how did he become the big boss’s favorite?

The New York Knicks’ 60th pick, Uros Slokar, would not be able to play in the NBA next season, and this Slovenian big man did not attract any attention.

On Saturday, July 2nd, the first weekend, the Los Angeles Times broke the news that Kobe Bryant was diligently training with Rookie Bynum and Von Wafer:

“At 7 AM, we saw a sweat-drenched Kobe Bryant at the Lakers’ training facility.”

“Without a doubt, Kobe Bryant has taken on the responsibility of a leader during the offseason, helping the team start their training camp early!”

“Kobe Bryant is very satisfied with this year’s draft and has promised fans that the Lakers will return to the Finals next season.”

Yahoo Sports also joined in, confirming that Kobe Bryant had fully recovered from his injury.

Lakers fans were naturally ecstatic to see such news.

Everyone loves a hardworking good kid!

Most teams would prepare for the Summer League, with training starting at the earliest next week, but Kobe Bryant had already been training for over a month.

This performance moved Los Angeles fans.

However, New Yorkers, who love to have fun, quickly made the West Coast crowd break down.

The comments under the related news made sports commentators burst into laughter:

“Offseason Champions—Los Angeles Lakers!”

“Offseason FMVP—Kobe Bryant.”

ESPN, as always, disliked Kobe Bryant, and on Sunday, they began to mock the training fanatic on their program:

“This is indeed good news for the Lakers. Perhaps they can save a salary. Kobe Bryant might consider working part-time as a trainer.”

“…”

Rookie Bynum and Wafer also had their difficulties.

Gaining attention was a good thing, but Kobe Bryant’s training regimen was overwhelming.

Caron Butler, who had been embroiled in trade rumors all season, was also training with Kobe Bryant, and they didn’t rest on Sunday.

Early in the morning, they arrived at the training ground and were immediately surrounded by the Los Angeles media.

With his name coming up in every trade rumor, Caron Butler heard the reporter ask again where he wanted to play and immediately said impatiently:

“I’m tired of these trade rumors. If I could choose, I’d want to play with Clay Lee!”

“We both came from the University of Connecticut, and Coach Calhoun’s basketball philosophy has always guided us. This is the best choice.”

“But business is business, and I don’t know where I’ll go in the future.”

Some reporters who had just walked from the parking lot in front of the Western Conference Finals heard these words and immediately asked curiously:

“Why not play with Kobe Bryant? This season you were the Lakers’ second-leading scorer, and next season you’ll have a talented big man like Bynum.”

Looking at the “Toyota Sports Center” logo, Caron Butler interrupted the other party:

“Kobe Bryant is excellent, and he loves basketball very much, but we all know that playing with Clay Lee offers a better chance to win a championship.”

“Stop asking these boring questions. In fact, I can’t decide my own future.”

“…”

After completing training in the afternoon, Kobe Bryant was somewhat tired.

The advantage of playing in Los Angeles was getting more attention, but sometimes it was also a disadvantage.

Before he even reached the parking lot, Kobe Bryant was surrounded by reporters, some of whom acted as mouthpieces, adding fuel to the fire as they repeated Caron Butler’s words.

“?”

Kobe Bryant’s heart burned with anger as he listened.

He had invited Butler to train with him to send a signal to management and also to look after his junior.

He never expected to be “betrayed” on the spot.

Kobe Bryant’s face darkened further, and he hastily ended the interview:

“I’ve won championships, and I know very well that a championship doesn’t mean everything.”

“I enjoy the process of leading the team and pursuing a championship with my teammates even more!”

“…”

Although the Lakers were eliminated early, most sports media still liked to report on related news.

Many people still hoped that the Lakers and the New York Knicks would meet again in the Finals, as the San Antonio Spurs’ popularity was simply too low.

Kobe Bryant tried to keep Caron Butler.

He was still satisfied with the team’s current roster.

Since the Players Union had not yet reached an agreement with the NBA, the free agency signing day would likely be set for the end of the month.

Currently in a freeze period, agents and general managers of various teams had already begun scouting players.

On Monday morning, July 4th, Independence Day, Lee also met a much thinner Grunfeld at his home on 82nd Street.

Since Bloomberg News broke the story, the matter had escalated, and the relevant administrative staff ultimately chose to sue the New York Knicks’ general manager.

The championship satisfied the fans, but onlookers and enthusiastic individuals would not let go of such hot news.

After newspapers reported that the two sides had failed to reach a settlement and that Grunfeld would likely be suspended, many people became agitated again.

Lee’s home had an achievement room for trophies, with small trophies like Weekly Best, Monthly Best, and individual leaders filling the cabinets.

Prominently displayed were seven golden grand trophies and numerous group photos.

Looking at these honors, Grunfeld sighed inwardly.

Looking at his haggard, bearded old partner who remained silent, Lee couldn’t help but comfort him:

“Perhaps there’s still a turn for the better…”

Grunfeld seemed to have heard too many words of comfort and turned around to interrupt:

“Even if a settlement is reached in the end, and James Dolan chooses to pay a large sum of money, my professional career is already over.”

“No one will hire me again. This is the NBA. Players can make mistakes, but a team won’t have a tainted manager.”

“Lee, have you received Kurt’s call? His agent seized the opportunity, and our boss agreed to a contract extension. He will sign another four-year contract.”

According to the earliest plan, 33-year-old Kurt Thomas would not get a big contract.

Grunfeld knew that after years of wear and tear, this veteran of great merit would most likely begin to decline.

Lee also knew that to maintain the team’s vitality and competitiveness, Kurt Thomas should be allowed to contribute to other teams.

However, thinking of the content of the call he received from this six-time champion veteran over the weekend, Lee couldn’t say “no”:

“I know this is most likely Kurt Thomas’s last big contract in his career, and it is indeed a reward he deserves.”

Unable to “clean out” the veterans as planned, Grunfeld felt some regret.

Looking at the glittering trophies, he whispered:

“High salaries and declining vitality will eventually crush a team.”

Lee naturally understood this.

As a group of role players renewed their contracts, completely locking up the salary cap, competitiveness would also decline:

“Getting a big contract is a good thing. As long as the team is willing to spend money, I have no reason to object.”

Even as the GOAT, he had to give back to his old brothers.

Kurt Thomas could say to everyone with a clear conscience:

“I have worked hard for the New York Knicks! I have bled for the New York Knicks!”

“…”

On tuesday, July 5th, the New York Knicks were the first to release news that they had reached a contract extension agreement with veteran player Kurt Thomas.

The New York Media unanimously praised James Dolan for spending money, and there were even column articles boasting:

“Perhaps we have all overlooked the Dolan Family’s excellent management level…”

…

By the way, don’t forget to throw power stones and leave a review to motivate me 🙂

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep