The advisor gave a thin smile. Papers and charts were spread across the table — the new hierarchy of Crimson Eclipse was about to begin.
Advisor: "As you all know, Number One will be Loma — the head.
Number Two, Darok. His combat ability surpasses anyone in this room.
Number Three, Vamos — the second strongest here, and the one who went toe-to-toe with Darok.
Number Four, Sylven. He fought Kael — the fangs' boss — and stood his ground.
And Number Five, Ryn, who defeated Fang's fourth seat."
He looked around the table, waiting.
"Does everyone agree?"
Darok gave a calm nod.
Vamos tilted his head coldly.
Sylven (low voice): "Number Four… it's reasonable."
Ryn (smirking): "Number Five, huh? Guess I'll just climb my way up."
The advisor's smile widened.
Advisor: "Then it's settled. Now, to the bigger matter: the current situation. We hold Hoshin District and Seikou Heights. That means we command the largest territory right now. And the other gangs won't sit still — we should expect a war of influence and land sooner or later.
The question is — are we ready to protect our territories… or will we crumble like the Fangs?"
A silence hung over the room.
Loma clenched his fists beneath the table, eyes still faintly red.
Loma: "I understand. I'll protect what we've gained. Whatever it takes."
The advisor gave one last nod, his voice low and ominous.
Advisor: "Good. Then prepare yourselves. If Black Core makes their move… this city will burn."
---
[Scene shifts – Apex Predators hideout]
A man burst into the hall, lungs screaming for air.
Messenger (gasping): "Black Core… attacked our men… they took part of our land—made it theirs!"
The Apex boss leaned back, eyes sharp, a heavy sigh escaping him.
Boss: "Then let's attack the Core of Black Core."
The messenger stammered, pale.
Messenger: "B-But Boss… the Iron Fist and Black Core are allied. If we attack, Iron Fist will—"
The boss slammed his hand down, the table cracking beneath his palm.
Boss (coldly): "Enough. I don't fear alliances. If war is coming, then I'll choose the battleground. I'm going to meet the boss of the newly established Crimson Eclipse."
The room fell silent.