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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 sunday, July 6, 2003, despite it being a sunday, the Eagle County incident continued to escalate, drawing nationwide attention.
Before the alleged illegal intrusion, Kobe's public image, largely shaped by sports media, was that of an introverted, quiet, basketball-loving 'good kid' from high school.
Delonte West, who once worked for the Lakers, praised Kobe's dedication to basketball:
"Every day is either training or playing. Kobe has devoted everything to basketball."
However, after this incident escalated, that persona completely shattered!
Kobe was not the 'good kid' people imagined.
He seemed no different from other Black stars, failing to control himself even after marriage.
Media reporters from across the United States rushed to Eagle County with their cameras, all eager to interview the Champion Guard.
However, after receiving legal assistance, Kobe had not accepted any interviews, nor had he responded to calls from the Lakers or his teammates.
On his lawyer's advice, Kobe remained silent, believing that the more he said, the more mistakes he would make.
Phil Jackson refused to comment, and the Lakers organization could only remain neutral at this time:
"Kobe did not inform the team about his decision to have surgery. We have not yet communicated with Kobe and are currently unclear about the specific details of the incident."
The truth of the matter no longer mattered; in the media's portrayal, Kobe's image as an illegal intruder had become deeply ingrained in people's minds.
ESPN's program almost dealt Kobe a heavy blow, but this weekend, these guys broke another big story:
"Shaquille O'Neal's wife, Shaunie, seems dissatisfied with her husband's past."
After winning the championship last year, Shaquille O'Neal proposed to Shaunie.
Los Angeles sports media even reported on the romantic scene at the time and extended their sincere best wishes!
Yet, less than a year later, the couple seemed to be experiencing relationship problems.
On sunday's ESPN program, a commentator confidently stated:
"Shaquille O'Neal is very angry now. He believes Kobe's lies have ruined his family!"
"He stated that he had sent text messages and called Kobe, but has not received a response so far. Shaquille O'Neal hopes Kobe Bryant can give him an explanation."
Not long ago, on TNT's program, Charles Barkley stated that he would no longer discuss the OK Combo.
However, less than half a month later, the boomerang hit him in the face.
The trio no longer discussed the Knicks' tactics or Lee's inhuman statistics.
The hype around the 2003 rookies also completely dissipated.
Now, the public just wanted to know if Kobe actually did it, and how O'Neal did it back then.
Kobe's fans did not believe their idol would illegally intrude.
While emailing threats to the accuser, they also dug up the Golden Club incident.
The rumor back then was that the Knicks collectively held a 'silver party,' with Steve Kaplan airlifting over a dozen beautiful women to serve the Knicks.
This incident had happened many years ago.
After Kobe's fans dug it up, they became exceptionally active on the internet, seemingly trying to change the subject:
"The Knicks had a collective silver party, and Clay-Lee must have participated too."
In short, if our idol suffers, your idol shouldn't expect to be fine either.
Everyone's done it anyway!
The young New York fans were overjoyed these past few days, experiencing the pleasure of online arguments.
Over the years, the New York Media had thoroughly investigated Lee's romantic life.
Everyone knew Lee had many blonde friends, but no girl had ever complained about it.
Even Jennifer Connelly, who found a new partner, joked in an interview:
"Lee is my good friend. We indeed had a wonderful experience, but we are both focused on our careers."
"My eldest son still really likes him! Every Christmas, he still sends gifts to Kai!"
Not only was Lee discussed, but because of Kobe's incident, a large number of fans dug up past instances of NBA stars 'working hard' off the court.
The 'Three Js' of Dallas almost came to blows when they became 'kindred spirits' back then, and Jason Kidd's romantic escapades now became the subject of fans' ridicule.
As for the old stories of Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan from earlier years, they were all unearthed.
As a witness to that era, fans wanted to know Charles Barkley's opinion through TNT's program, and perhaps get some more juicy gossip!
In the studio, before speaking, Kenny Smith fortified himself with several layers of caution before saying:
"I respect women, but I don't like some people elevating this issue to a racial level!"
"The court has not yet given a final verdict. We should remain skeptical, think independently, and trust our judicial system."
Extreme white groups began protesting in Eagle County with signs saying "Don't date Black men," attracting more and more onlookers who didn't care about the NBA.
Charles Barkley also had a headache.
He couldn't very well say on air that his old friends' stories were true.
Instead of his usual outspokenness, he said seriously:
"We all know that whenever players play on the road, they encounter certain invitations."
"It's not a big deal. As long as you're single and can maintain your physical condition, you can often enjoy that kind of life."
"Players face many temptations, and they naturally make mistakes, but I find it hard to believe Kobe would do such a thing."
"I don't want to comment now. As Kenny said, we should trust the law!"
Both of them said they trusted the law, but in reality, everyone understood that Kobe, who was officially indicted, would not go to jail.
Compared to the sensational O.J. Simpson murder trial, Kobe, also a famous athlete, made a minor mistake that would only require some money, and the fair judicial system would naturally give him justice!
The two co-hosts no longer spoke as freely as before, and Ernie Johnson really didn't want to discuss the topic, so he could only add:
"Kobe Bryant should hold a press conference in a few days, and then we can hear the full story from him."
"Everyone can be patient during this time, and we will also provide live reports."
The trio repeatedly tried to smooth things over on the show.
After recording, Charles Barkley sighed in a low voice:
"No matter the outcome, Kobe is completely finished. Sponsors will soon terminate their contracts with him, and Lakers players will likely not speak up for him."
"I wouldn't be surprised if Vanessa chose to divorce him at this point, and it will be difficult for him to regain the league's support."
Kenny Smith thought of the 2003 rookies entering the league, and then of Kobe's current predicament, and nodded in agreement:
"This is truly terrible. The case will likely drag on for a long time."
There was no surveillance in the hotel room, which gave the victim the upper hand.
Ernie Johnson said nothing more, but in his heart, he began to lament:
"No one can save you now!"
On the morning of the 6th, in South Palm Beach, Clay Lee, dressed in a black suit, attended Ken Griffin's wedding.
Most of those present today were investors and close friends of this hedge fund rising star, while relatively few family members from either side attended.
Anne Dias, a French-American woman, had originally hoped her grand wedding could be held in France, but some conflicts arose when they signed the prenuptial agreement.
The two sides had a bit of an unpleasant dispute, and in the end, Ken Griffin chose Palm Beach for the event.
Ivanka's ancestral estate was actually exceptionally luxurious, often hosting weddings.
This time, Ken Griffin booked the entire venue, and the service staff showed 120% enthusiasm.
In attendance, besides some partners and Wall Street figures, were also members of the Republican Party.
Ken Griffin might be their future money bag, so naturally, they had to take good care of him.
Under blue skies, white clouds, and green grass, the picturesque scenery witnessed the two newlyweds exchange rings.
After a loving kiss, everyone present cheered.
Lee applauded and cheered, and Daniel Ziff, beside him, suddenly chuckled and whispered,
"Griffin really wasn't blinded by love, otherwise, the two of them would definitely have a fight in the future!"
The richer the family background, the more painful a breakup would be.
Daniel, as the youngest son of the Ziff family, had seen such things many times.
Lee turned to look at him, noticed that his girlfriend wasn't with him, and also teased,
"I believe they have true love. Griffin often visits his girlfriend in New York, and he even contributed a lot to Dias's company."
Daniel, like Lee, also had a messy, bird's nest hairstyle today, which, with his disheveled hair, made him look even younger.
Subconsciously running a hand through his hair, Daniel made sure his two older brothers weren't around, then chuckled and said:
"Clay, there are many beautiful girls. We need a partner who can be tolerant of us. Dias isn't that kind of person. She's also very strong."
"Listen to me, have a few children with Ivanka in two years, so her stingy father won't make you pay membership fees anymore!"
When this topic came up, the two of them chuckled.
There was also a grand pool party that night, and Ivanka, dressed in a white gown, was busy directing the household staff and couldn't leave, so she naturally didn't know about Lee's "wicked" intentions.
It was almost noon when Lee saw Bobby and his friend Ivan.
Since making a fortune, Ivan had completely let loose after graduating from Connecticut Law School:
"The world is so big, I want to see it!"
He spent over three years traveling the world, seeing lions on the African savanna, witnessing penguins in Antarctica, playing with wild South American girls, and almost getting stuck as a live-in son-in-law with a Russian girl.
His past ideals had long been forgotten.
With money, he just wanted to live freely.
Working?
Absolutely impossible!
Noticing his friend's somewhat weathered face, Lee couldn't stop smiling.
He clapped him hard on the shoulder and teased,
"Why are you back, my good brother? Where are your beloved Natasha sisters? I thought you were staying in Ukraine."
Ivan, with his slicked-back hair, had lost the luster in his golden hair.
Past his prime at 30, his body was somewhat overdrawn.
Thinking of that ill-fated romance, he said helplessly,
"I'm hurt. They only liked my money. Now I just want to live a good life!"
Bobby shook his head, knowing that he was just out of money.
"Work hard in Fairfield County. Your boss should be retiring in a couple of years!"
"Jonathan Benedict is very prestigious. Given your shared alma mater and old friendship, if he can make you Assistant Chief Prosecutor, in a few more years, you might have a chance to become District Chief Prosecutor."
Hearing Lee's words, Ivan sighed again.
After half a year at home, working under this District Prosecutor through connections, he was only doing odd jobs every day, which wasn't the life he wanted.
Jonathan graduated from Yale University and Connecticut Law School.
Lee met this highly respected prosecutor through several alumni gatherings.
Ivan's father also graduated from Connecticut Law School, and it was through their combined efforts that they secured this job.
Axe Capital is in Greenwich, so Bobby had naturally dealt with this District Prosecutor as well.
Noticing that the two were no longer joking, he reminded them,
"In a few years, we can contribute to the District Prosecutor elections in Manhattan and Fairfield County. This can be arranged!"
Lee nodded with a smile.
Melinda, who had been strolling around, returned and deliberately feigned surprise, saying:
"God, Ivan, you look twenty years older than Clay. What on earth have you been through these past few years!"
After saying this, Milin, dressed in a white gown, hugged Lee, her laughter causing her chest to heave.
Her complexion had improved significantly after a few days of extra training, attracting a lot of attention.
Stroking his beard, Ivan no longer wanted to speak.
Lee's appearance hadn't changed at all in recent years.
Aside from his deliberately grown stubble, he still looked around 20 years old.
Kim was also startled to see Lee's friend.
He looked quite aged for 30.
Also wearing a white gown and with her blonde hair pinned up, her overall demeanor became somewhat serious.
Kim smiled and greeted:
"Masson, it's my first time meeting you. You're even more composed than Clay described."
Kim's speech was a bit fast, and her smile still had a touch of girlishness.
Ivan gave a bitter laugh.
Only he had gotten old.
Melinda was 3 years older than Lee, and according to information from Bobby, Kim was 5 years older than Lee.
"No need to hold back your laughter, we're all family. I really need to take care of myself."
Watching this once dashing man, who changed girlfriends every two weeks, transform into a weathered uncle, and recalling his friend's absurd experiences, Melinda couldn't stop laughing:
"Two Ukrainian girls made you like this? You should really ask Clay for advice!"
"..."
After the pool party in the evening, Lee was slightly tipsy, and this was one of his happiest days recently.
Since tomorrow was Monday, the days of continuous revelry ended, and the blonde bombshell still felt a bit nostalgic.
Looking at Lee lying on the big bed, Ivanka suddenly showed off her rope skills.
The slightly tipsy Lee realized his hands were tied and only then opened his eyes wide.
"Ha! I've wanted to do this for a long time!"
Encountering such a novel little trick, Lee naturally cooperated enthusiastically:
"My Queen!"
The first week of July ended, and NBA fans had completely forgotten about the free agency market.
As the Eagle County case escalated, everyone just wanted to gossip.
On the 9th, numerous media reporters cornered Vanessa.
Although she did not accept an interview, the pervasive reporters still dug up information:
Vanessa seemed to be pregnant!
After this news was released, no one sympathized with Kobe except for his fans.
Everyone began to righteously condemn Kobe's actions.
Everyone transformed into model gentlemen, judging the matter from a moral high ground.
Since Kobe had not replied to O'Neal's texts or calls, Shaquille O'Neal was now furious!
Shaquille O'Neal again distanced himself in an interview, even publicly calling for Kobe to clarify the facts to him:
"I cannot accept this slander. Perhaps your news isn't true, but right now I just want to hear an apology."
"We won championships together. I treated Kobe as my little brother, but he can't do this to me. If you've seen the news, call me!"
"I don't care about your messy affairs, but you shouldn't drag me into this!"
Media reporters could tell that Shaquille O'Neal was truly angry.
It wasn't his business to begin with, but now everyone was laughing at him.
ESPN recently began to sensationalize the Lakers' views on Kobe, heavily promoting the breakdown of O'Neal and Kobe's relationship.
On the 11th, some media even broke the news that Vanessa was planning to divorce Kobe, and she intended to leave the family with her daughter.
NBA players also voiced their opinions at this time, sharing their gossip with media reporters.
With only one championship, Kobe didn't have many honors.
The Clay Lee Recognition Award didn't count at this point.
Most players didn't show much respect for Kobe.
Instead, many felt he was just lucky to play in a big city and had teammates like Shaquille O'Neal and a Champion Coach like Phil Jackson.
Some players even began to anonymously express their schadenfreude, hoping Kobe would never recover.
In the second week of July, the impact of the Eagle County incident continued to expand, and Kobe had not yet made a public statement.
Media reporters wished they could move their cameras into Kobe's home for a reality show!
On the morning of July 16th, the New York Knicks all arrived in Los Angeles, preparing to attend the ESPY Awards that evening.
Mike D'Antoni has been frequently interviewed recently.
At the end of the month, Sports Illustrated will release a special edition on the New York Knicks, with a large group photo on the cover.
As the Champion Coach of 73 wins, Mike D'Antoni naturally had a significant portion of the interview.
However, upon arriving in Los Angeles, the coaching staff realized that Kobe Bryant was still the most popular person in the city.
Yesterday morning, Kobe finally accepted an interview, but he did not answer related questions, only issued a statement:.
"I will attend a press conference with Vanessa on the 18th, and I will answer all questions then."
After Kobe left this message, the media reporters were once again in an uproar.
They had waited half a month, and this juicy gossip was finally going to be revealed!
Many athletes attended the ESPY Awards this year.
Clay Lee arrived in Los Angeles and hadn't had time to greet others.
As soon as he appeared in the evening, he was surrounded by people at the Hollywood Theater.
The ESPY Awards wouldn't have so many reporters.
Clearly, everyone was waiting to hear the gossip the day after tomorrow, attending Kobe's press conference.
Unlike usual, there were many editors, writers, and senior reporters from the ESPY Academy present today.
Not only local Los Angeles media, but also senior media professionals from Associated Press, USA Today, Fox Sports, Washington Post, Miami Herald, Denver Post, and more were all present.
Steve Serby, a New York Post columnist familiar with Lee, asked without formality:.
"Lee, it's rumored that you also visited the Gold Club a long time ago. Is this news true?"
Lee, wearing a dark blue suit, looked at the New York Post staff and couldn't help but smile wryly.
This news was originally broken by them:.
"Yes, there's nothing to hide. Steve Kaplan was a loyal fan of the New York Knicks back then, so of course I visited the club."
Two years ago, the arrested Kaplan provided a long list of celebrities who had visited the Gold Club.
Not only Clay Lee, Michael Jordan and other NBA stars, but also socialites like Bill Gates had patronized it.
Woody Paige, a reporter from the Denver Post, wasn't interested in such outdated news.
He looked at Lee with anticipation and quickly asked:.
"Lee, have you been following the Eagle County incident? How would you comment on Kobe Bryant's actions?"
Already knowing these guys would ask such a question, Lee shrugged his shoulders and said seriously:.
"Let's hear Kobe's own answer the day after tomorrow."
"When I was studying at Connecticut Law School, some seniors told me something: justice is blind. The goddess of justice cannot see the criminal begging her, and the goddess will ultimately judge everything!"
"We should trust the judicial system. Time will ultimately provide the answer!"
Many reporters nodded in agreement.
In Europe and America, the statue of the goddess of justice is blindfolded, holding a scale in one hand and a long sword in the other.
This statue signifies that the goddess of justice will weigh evil with the scales and then deliver judgment to the offender!
Reliefs of the goddess of justice can often be seen in law schools and judicial institutions.
In America, many people like this saying, which also symbolizes that this country is highly governed by law!
Lee's diplomatic words were well-spoken, and since Kobe's press conference was the day after tomorrow, everyone stopped discussing the matter further.
At 9 PM that night, at the Hollywood Theater, host Jamie Fox opened the show with jokes as usual.
Although in Los Angeles, he mercilessly ridiculed Shaquille O'Neal, with the "missing person" joke being repeatedly mentioned.
Lee sat with the New York Knicks, and even though he was in a front-row seat, he could still hear people behind him gossiping about Kobe's alleged trespassing.
Lee was too lazy to comment on this matter.
Ultimately, basketball players speak with their performance.
As long as you win enough, time will also become the victor's friend, and negative news will always have a day to be whitewashed.
Although Lee's previous diplomatic words were extremely eloquent, in the legal profession, the goddess of justice has a different meaning:.
The goddess of justice indeed cannot see the criminal's pleading eyes, but as long as you have enough chips, feeling the weight on the scales and the crisp sound of coins dropping, the goddess will also lift her blindfold to look at you.
If you are a powerful figure, you can use the rules to grasp the goddess of justice by the neck.
Feeling the constricted throat, the goddess will also compromise for this.
At this awards ceremony, Clay Lee first won the NBA Best Player without suspense.
The 73-win New York Knicks won Best Team.
Mike D'Antoni won Coach of the Year (COY).
For the Best Male Athlete award, Clay Lee defeated Armstrong and once again lifted the trophy!
Although Kobe was still preparing for the press conference the day after tomorrow, he was leaning back on the sofa at this moment, staring blankly at the ESPY Awards ceremony.
He had fantasized many times about winning the championship, winning the FMVP, standing on the podium, holding the Best Male Athlete award, and receiving cheers from everyone present.
The cheers from the TV woke Kobe up.
Watching Lee lift the trophy, smiling and speaking eloquently, Kobe felt abandoned by the world.
Although Vanessa and his daughter were at home, they had rarely communicated these past few days.
"Thanks to those great predecessors, thanks to my opponents, it is you who made me who I am today!"
"."
Hearing Lee's voice from the TV again, Kobe could no longer suppress the grievance in his heart.
He grabbed the basketball beside him and silently shed tears:.
"Only basketball accompanies me."
.....
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