《Marvel: Impregnation System》


 Chapter 0: Intro Letter

    Chapter -3: Chapter 0: Intro Letter


    I feel it''s nesscary to write a warning since this mc is a f*cking degenerate narcissistic idiotic asshole and I only originally started writing this story out of frustration and writers block with my other ideas, and it just kept going.


    Also writing system''s are hard, so I also used this as a practice to format and I thought this was unique smut system idea which I would use as a protoype.


    I''ve also never written fanfiction before so this was supposed to be a creative outlet for me to experiment with different ideas that didn''t quite fit elsewhere, but I ended up writing a f*ck ton so I thought it would be a waste to simply leave it in my docs folder so here we are.


    It''s based off marvel comics and centered in the 1920s with marvel elements slowly added with historical ones as well, so if ya ask me about the main timeline then I''ll drop kick you into oblivion since it''s based before then.


    It''s a little all over the place sometimes but the mc is supposed to be kind of a douche, which I tried to supplement with humor to make him more likable but even I struggle at times to even like him myself so make of that as you will.


    There will also be one night stands cause why not and for those wondering if there will be smut interactions with the harem members in the future like threesomes, NO their will not be. There will probably be threesome''s in the future but those will be like one off powerups one night stands that are necessary for the plot to progress.


    I''m also a amatuer at this so don''t expect picasso levels of writing.


    - LaughingFiend

 Chapter 1: Death (Short R18)

    Chapter 1: Death (Short R18)


    "Ricky, you''re a pathetic piece of sewage grade level sh*t."


    In a well lit room with a seemingly hazy ambiance held two figures with one at either side of a stained oakwood desk.


    The one situated on the actual side of the desk who was reprimanding Ricky was a very well dressed man.


    His suit fashioned out of a fine material as gold accessories littered his whole body with it all culminating together with a disappointing stare.


    "I can''t even call you Slick cause I can''t find the familiarity between us anymore." The man rubbed his forehead in immediate distress at the situation unfolding before him.


    *Cough*


    "Sticks and stones Tyrone, sticks and stones." Ricky wiped his busted lip courtesy of Tyrone in front of him.


    "Why couldn''t we have just stuck with the common loan shark and sucker relationship we used to have, huh?" Tyrone pointed to him before himself as he shook his head.


    "Listen Tyrone, I''m not saying your sister is a liar-"


    *Click*


    "Watch your words, Ricky." Tyrone tone was deadly as a man standing behind him clicked a pistol as he held up his hand.


    "Whoa, whoa, I was just joking, come on man." Ricky chuckled nervously, raising his hands.


    However, as he looked at Tyrone, he noticed a complete absence of humor in Tyrone''s expression.


    "Now you listen well Ricky, I don''t know what made you suddenly grow balls of steel to knock up my sister, but you better use those big ass ears of yours to listen to me next words." Tyrone''s voice seethed as Ricky frowned, immediately rubbing his ear with a weird face.


    "Are they really that big-"


    *BAM*


    Right as he was about to make a retort, Tyrone''s henchmen busted him in the mouth once more as he gripped his face.


    "F*ck!" Ricky cursed, clutching his cheek as he looked up at Tyrone.


    "You''re going to stay away from Denice but stay in my soon to be nephew''s life, got it?" Tyrone gently placed a pistol upon the desk at the behest of his words, and Ricky glanced at it hesitantly.


    "Of course, sure whatever-"


    *BAM*


    Tyrone''s henchmen delivered a punch to his side, causing Ricky to grunt in pain while clutching both his stomach and face.


    "My kidneys~" Ricky grimaced as Tyrone leaned back, pinching the bridge of his nose with an annoyed and exhausted look.


    "I know all about you Ricky, thirteen confirmed bastards and probably a hundred more of your little spawns kicking out there in some random abandoned trailer parks." Tyrone pointed at Ricky while desperately holding back the mass urge to tear his skin off.


    ''Abandoned trailer parks?'' Ricky thought, gazing down before actually nodding since he currently looked like white trash.


    "You''re gonna be in my soon to be nephew''s life, now Ricky I want to hear you say ''I understand''."


    "I understand."


    Without hesitation, Ricky acknowledged, prompting Tyrone to sigh, shake his head, and gesture for the henchman to step back.


    "Now get out of my sight." Tyrone gestured as Ricky nodded though didn''t immediately leave.


    "I know we aren''t on the best of terms but can you lend me like 10k? For old times sake." Ricky asked before seeing Tyrone reaching for the pistol on the desk.


    "Okay, nevermind." Hastily limping out of the room, Ricky felt Tyrone pointing the muzzle at his back, yet Tyrone refrained from pulling the trigger.


    "F*cking white boys man."


    5 hours of constant drinking later,


    "Slick, are you going to place a bet?" The dealer addressed a thoroughly intoxicated Ricky, who wasn''t even focused on the game where he had placed three thousand dollars.


    "You''re kidding, you''re a Tarus? I''m a Cancer~" Ricky drunkenly spoke to the cocktail waitress who gasped in complete shock.


    This girl was approximately twenty years younger than Ricky, who, at forty-six, wasn''t fixated on her personality so much as he was on her ginormous knockers.


    "Oh my god! I literally read that my sign would meet a naughty cancer~" The girl held onto the pink crystal hanging from her neck, biting her lip with curiosity.


    "SLICK!" The dealer shouted, and Ricky rolled his eyes in his direction before placing his hands on all of his chips.


    "I''m all in-"


    *BLERG*


    Ricky vomited his dinner onto the floor beside him, eliciting disgusted expressions from the people in the immediate vicinity.


    "Dammit Slick!" the dealer reprimanded Ricky while showing a disgusted expression at the seemingly never-ending puke constantly spouting out of Ricky''s mouth.


    "My bad." Ricky apologized, wiping his sleeve with the puke staining the ends of his mouth.


    "I''m just glad I got all those impurities out of my system." Ricky winked at the cocktail waitress, seeming to register Ricky''s words before gasping in awe.


    "Hey Slick, place yer bet already!" A toothless man on the side reprimanded Ricky who held up his hands.


    *Cough*


    "I apologize but as I was saying, I''m all in-"


    *BLERGH*


    "F*CKING HELL SLICK!"


    Those were the last words Ricky heard as his consciousness faded into darkness.


    "Ricky."


    "Ricky!"


    "RICKY!"


    "WH-WHAT?" Ricky, still half asleep, suddenly jumped up only to immediately grab his forehead as an immense pain rippled throughout his brain.


    "F*ck, you''re a mess."


    Gazing to the side, Ricky saw one of the outcomes of his irresponsible actions presenting itself as his son, Trevor.


    Trevor seemed to inherit all of the better qualities of Ricky, which led him to have a successful life as a real estate broker while marrying a girl from a wealthy and respectable family.


    "Hey buddy, how are you doing?" Ricky smiled at his son, only to hear a scoff in return.


    "How old are you, Ricky?" Trevor rubbed his disgruntled forehead as Ricky scratched his scruffy beard.


    "Thirty-seven?" Ricky seemingly asked Trevor as a long vein appeared on his forehead.


    "YOU''RE FORTY-EIGHT!" Trevor snapped at this sack of sh*t in front of him who masquerades himself as his father.


    *Snap*


    "Correct, I was just testing you to see how much you knew about your old man." Ricky snapped his fingers while giving him a toothy smile, though Trevor only showed a plain expression.


    "F*ck." Trevor covered his face while huffing out a slight whisper.


    "So Trevor, what do you want, you never come to see me unless you need something from me?" Ricky leaned back on the hotel''s couch while raising an eyebrow.


    Ricky''s familiarity with Trevor ran deep, as he was his first bastard which was in stark contrast to the relationships he formed with his later bastards, Ricky had genuinely tried to be a father to Trevor, forging a semblance of a genuine father-son bond between them until he ended up ruining it like he always tended to do with the relationships he formed with people.


    *Sigh*


    "Jessica is getting married, and for some reason that''s beyond reasoning itself, she wants you to walk her down the aisle." Trevor wiped his hand down his face, only to see Ricky deeply contemplating something.


    Ricky didn''t say anything as he closed both eyes, but when he did, he still didn''t remember anyone by the name of Jessica.


    "The girl I met from San Francisco-"


    "MY YOUNGER SISTER! YOUR DAUGHTER! SHE LITERALLY BAILED YOU OUT OF JAIL LAST WEEK!" Trevor couldn''t believe what he was hearing, knowing that Ricky wasn''t joking.


    "Ohhhhhhhhh~" The memory of his daughter Jessica resurfaced, knowing that she wasn''t Trevor''s half, but full sister.


    Trevor, feeling helpless when gazing at the piece of garbage in front of him, collapsed onto a nearby chair.


    He remained still for a while before pulling out an envelope from his jacket.


    "This is 5,000." Trevor hurled the envelope to Ricky who greedily caught it with greed enveloping his eyes


    "You''ll get another 5,000 if you manage to walk Jessica down the aisle, SOBER!" Trevor angrily pointed at Ricky who was busy counting the money though nodded once he confirmed it was all there.


    "Sober, got it." Ricky''s greedy smile widened further upon seeing that it was really five thousand genuine dollars and not counterfeits since he''d been scammed with hundred dollar bills that had James Madison on them one time.


    "And I''ll throw in another 10,000, if." Trevor purposely let the sentence hang to catch his greedy father''s attention, resulting in him following his expectations.


    "If?" Ricky stopped looking at the money in his hands and at Trevor''s serious expression.


    "If and only IF, Jessica tells me how happy she is by your performance." Trevor stood up while buttoning the lower half of his jacket.


    "You''re a really good brother." Ricky smiled knowing how good of a son he raised-


    "Yeah, it was only because I wasn''t raised by you that I turned out this way." Trevor sneered, walking out of the hotel he paid to house his unconscious father.


    "Ouch~" Ricky''s words contradicted his expression as the rugged man didn''t show an ounce of pain.


    Casting a sidelong glance, he surveyed the tattered rags that clung to his form, absently running his fingers through his unkempt beard.


    "Guess I''ll clean up a bit."


    One week later,


    "He''ll show up, I just know he will!" Jessica, unlike Trevor, had a glimmer of hope shrouded in a veil of naivety as she nervously gazed around the hall.


    Sam, Jessica''s fiance and soon to be husband, seriously gazed at Trevor while slightly motioning his head to the side.


    "I''ll go check in the back since he usually gets lost easily." Trevor smiled as a slight wave of reassurance waved over Jessica.


    "You''re right! He is such a clutz, I''ll keep waiting here!" Jessica''s bright smile seemed to slightly blind the nearby people as Sam nudged Trevor to the side.


    "Trevor!" Sam yelled in a whisper as the veins on Trevor''s neck enlarged in anger.


    "What! I f*cking gave that deadbeat the money like we planned and specifically told him when the date was!" Trevor grimaced in anticipation of the impending disaster, his hand moving to rub his face in a desperate manner.


    "Did you tattoo it on his body!"


    "I didn''t have too, we offered him money! He probably sold his first born to the devil for drinking money!"


    *SIGH*


    "Why does Jessica adore that loser so much?" Sam loved Jessica to death, but couldn''t for the life of him understand the lingering affection for a man who clearly didn''t care about her.


    "Because that bastard is always good at showing up for the most influential parts of her life." Trevor sighed, recognizing Ricky''s uncanny streak of luck since whenever Ricky appeared in Jessica''s life, he effortlessly managed to assist her, as if good fortune naturally gravitated towards him.


    "I know, it still boggles me how he ended up taking on a whole biker gang." Sam might loathe Ricky''s entire existence, but there still remained a minuscule amount of respect for the man


    "It''s because that idiot was high on angel dust and couldn''t feel any pain," Trevor briefly said while checking his watch.


    "Hey, give me some credit, alright? It was still like, fourteen drunken rugged biker dudes." Ricky''s voice sounded from the side as both of their heads immediately jerked to the familiar voice.


    "Ricky?" They both flinched in astonishment at Ricky''s appearance.


    His advancing age left its mark only in the form of silky silver strands, strewn like delicate filigree amidst his slick black hair.


    The final touches to his already unique color palette were added by his striking green eyes which contrasted well with his jawline, a chiseled masterpiece, seemed as though it could cut through granite, accentuating the cheeky smile he consistently wore.


    Rocking a cheap suit, Ricky wore it with such flair that it almost seemed to transform into a designer outfit.


    "What? Didn''t your mother always tell you how much of a ladies'' man I was?" Ricky cheekily smiled, his bright white teeth giving off a slight sparkle.


    "Now where''s my other five grand?" Ricky eagerly broke his first impression and asked as the two of them immediately returned to their normal expression when dealing with him.


    "Here." Sam looked around before tossing the five grand at Ricky, who greedily snatched it from mid-air.


    "Thank you-"


    "Shut up and go make Jessica smile." Sam grunted, not hesitating to grab Ricky and push him towards Jessica.


    "Jessica, look who I found!" Sam yelled from the side as Jessica eagerly turned towards the call of her fiance?, only to have her bright smile widen even further upon seeing another man.


    "Daddy!" Jessica squealed, grabbing the ends of her dress while hurriedly rushing at Ricky.


    "Don''t mess this up, Ricky, or else I''ll kick your ass," Trevor still had a smile on his face, but like a ventriloquist, he whispered from the side to Ricky.


    "And I''ll be right there to hold you down while he does it." Sam waved to Jessica while subtly threatening the father of his fiance?.


    "Both of you better shut up before I show you how I kicked those biker''s asses in 08." Ricky wasn''t threatened in the least and instead fired back as Sam slightly flinched, though Trevor squinted his eyes, not at all scared yet didn''t comment further.


    "Pumpkin!" Ricky exclaimed, completely throwing away their remarks by holding out both his arms wide to Jessica.


    "Hehehehehehehe!" Jessica jumped into Ricky''s embrace, giggling upon having Ricky twirl her around in the air as her beautiful white dress fluttered.


    "Everyone told me how you wouldn''t show up, but I knew all along that you would show up out of the blue without RSVPing or letting me know!" Jessica hopped up and down once Ricky lowered her heels against the hard oak floor.


    *Cough*


    "Ye-Yeah, you know me so well." A drop of sweat formed on Ricky''s forehead as disappointed accumulated stares started gathering on his figure.


    "You''ll walk me down the aisle like you promised all those years ago, right?" Stars glimmered in Jessica''s eyes as Ricky felt slightly suffocated by the unfamiliar unconditional love overflowing from her.


    The only love he was used to these days consisted of love mixed with vast amounts of hate, like the kind where you accidentally meet an ex at a Wendy''s before you both explode in rage over past trauma until somehow you''re making out in the back alley, and finally, you end up f*cking in a nearby dirty Motel 6.


    "Of course, pumpkin, a promise is a promise." Ricky tried to smile affectionately, but whenever he tried, the only thing he could muster up was his usual sleazy smile.


    However, that facial expression didn''t seem like it would help calm down the endless hateful gazes in the bridal room which only turned into disgusted sneers.


    Ricky lounged around behind the wide double doors leading to the wedding he wanted to have nothing to do with as he waited to fulfill his sole obligation.


    Though he was already growing a bit bored as the passing thought of ditching started to echo louder in his head.


    As loud wedding music echoed through the venue''s halls, Ricky''s ears twitched, turning his head to Jessica''s bright smile that illuminated the area.


    "Ack!" Ricky instinctively covered his eyes as the dazzling gleam of pure innocence temporarily burned his retinas.


    "Daddy?" Jessica hurriedly approached him with a concerned expression as she worriedly called. and Ricky, shaking off the momentary discomfort, reassured her,


    "I''m fine, I''m fine." Ricky, shaking off the momentary discomfort, reassured her while massaging his eyes and blinking a few times.


    "Alright, sweet pea, let''s start the first day of the rest of your life," Ricky said, extending his hand.


    Jessica instantly grabbed it, and together, they strolled towards the double doors, marking the entrance to Jessica''s newly married life.


    "Daddy, can I ask you something?" As they walked, Jessica turned to Ricky, her eyes filled with curiosity.


    "What''s up, pumpkin?" Ricky shifted his gaze toward her, anticipating her question though put a facade of confusion, aware of the damning request she might make.


    "Can-...Can you stay longer than the ceremony?" Jessica unleashed her puppy dog eyes, a tactic that no longer worked on Ricky after years of practice with women.


    "Honey, I-" Ricky began the words that would break her heart but Jessica wouldn''t let him finish.


    "Please, please, please, please, please! It would make me the happiest girl in the world if you stayed!" Jessica spoke the words that made Ricky want to roll his eyes knowing that he would be locked in.


    *SIGH*


    Ricky heavily sighed, realizing that his last five thousand depended on her happiness causing him to utter words that only a disgruntled teenager would give in response.


    "Fine."


    "YEAH!" Jessica''s elation soared as they entered the hall.


    All eyes turned toward the double doors as Jessica, linked arm and arm with Ricky, revealed themselves to the audience.


    Wedding music blared even louder than before as they took step after step towards the anxious Sam.


    Sam wasn''t nervous about marrying Jessica but instead worried about whatever stupid thing Ricky might cause to ruin their wedding.


    Sam knew all too well that Ricky''s mere presence attracted trouble, but he also understood that Jessica''s day would be made if he showed up, so he tolerated it.


    When Sam''s nervous eyes shifted to Ricky''s right, his worries instantly vanished upon seeing Jessica''s adoring gaze focused on him.


    Ricky led Jessica down the aisle, and both the bride and groom cherished the anticipation toward the last moments of their single lives.


    Once she reached the steps, Ricky released her, and Sam assisted Jessica up one by one. Turning around, Jessica flashed a bright smile at Ricky.


    He wanted to look away but managed to nod slightly until Ricky felt immediately uncomfortable at her next words.


    ''I love you.'' Jessica mouthed, and although those words made him nauseous, Ricky, a sleazebag his whole life, maintained his poker face though didn''t mouth it back.


    ''I think I''m going to be sick'' Ricky simply gave her a bright smile before turning back to his seat.


    "Ahem." The officiant began.


    "Dearly beloved, we are gathered-"


    Two hours of intense boredom later,


    "So you''re Jessica''s dad?" A soft voice sounded next to Ricky who was scarfing down one old fashion after another.


    "Huh? Oh yeah." Ricky forgot about Jessica for a second but quickly realized he wasn''t at his regular pub but the open bar at the wedding.


    "Destiny." Destiny greeted holding out her hand as Ricky''s sleazy smile slightly widened at this totally stripper name.


    "Slick, but you can call me Ricky." Ricky softly took Destiny''s hand into his as their skin touched.


    "Slick, what kind of nickname is that?" Destiny chuckled while sitting next to Ricky on the nearby stool.


    "The type you get after slicking your hair back your whole life." Ricky joked, pointing to his hair as Destiny covered her overextending smile.


    "You were one of the bridesmaids, right?" Ricky positioned his right elbow to better expand his figure towards Destiny as the latter slightly nodded.


    "How very observant of you." Destiny said while gesturing to get the bartender''s attention.


    "Well it wasn''t that hard of you to get my attention since you practically light up the room whenever you appear." Riky''s comment made Destiny''s light hearted chuckle continue until the bartender walked before them.


    "A gin and tonic please." Ricky answered for Destiny as the bartender slightly nodded.


    "How did you know I wanted a gin and tonic?" Destiny curiously asked Ricky who easily guessed what type of drinker she was.


    "Usually sophisticated women like yourself tend to drink gin and tonics however unlike those other women, I could always pick up on your subtle yet overbearing aura that basically flares how intellectually capable you are." Ricky flattered Destiny, who in turn, rolled her eyes though continued to listen.


    Ricky reasoning was entirely bullsh*t since it was a guess based on the fact that it was unusually a common drink for most call girls.


    Ricky wasn''t entirely sure if she was a hooker or a stripper, but her style eerily resembled one and he should know better than anyone here, having probably spent two fortunes on hookers.


    "Anything else?" Destiny leaned down on her hand that was placed inches away from Ricky''s elbow.


    "Well it depends." Ricky chuckles, stirring his drink while leaving Destiny hanging just a bit.


    "Depends on?" Destiny bit the bait, her eyebrows raised as she leaned forward.


    "It depends how long you want to be flattered for." Ricky turned back to the already leaning Destiny which caused both their faces to be right in front of each other.


    "Oh that was smooth." Destiny looked down, her finger slowly brushed against his black tie.


    "Only as smooth as a gin and tonic." Ricky sealed the deal as Destiny looked up and down once more before shrugging.


    30 minutes later,


    *Thump*


    "Ah!"


    *Thump*


    "Ah!"


    *Thump*


    "Ah!"


    *Thump*


    In a faraway hallway outside , a broom closet was constantly banged though from the inside.


    *Thump*


    "Ah!" Destiny let out a moan, her hair slightly disheveled while wrapping her slim legs around Ricky''s waist.


    His pants wrapped around his ankles as he plunged deep inside Destiny, her slutty mouth letting out one sensual moan after another.


    Gripping his greasy black hair between the groves of her fingers, Destiny''s eyes started to fog as her breath became ragged.


    The pleasure swirling and crashing down into her mind as Ricky''s cock slammed into the deepest ends of her being leaving her feeling numb, mushy, and incredibly dirty.


    Ricky on the other hand had his head buried deep into her over endowed breasts that would''ve been slapping against each other in a rugged manner if not for his head sandwich between them.


    His fingers clutching deeply onto her thighs which gave him a firm hold that would allow him to ram his cock into her being over and over again as he propped her against the door.


    Rumbling, the hinges waddled against each other as Ricky forced his cock deeper into Destiny''s being as her moans craved for more.


    "Oh god, oh god-" Destiny cried out like a broken record, slobbering at the ends of her mouth as she gazed up at the heavens.


    A sudden tension built up within his balls as he gritted his teeth, thrusting harder into her pussy as his tip neared the deepest depths of her being.


    The pounding on the door increased in intensity, ramping up an octave as a poking sensation suddenly collided into the entrance of her womb as a shock of electricity surged through Destiny''s brain.


    "HAAAAA~" Destiny let out a deepened moan, feeling her deepest parts of her finally be wholly occupied by Ricky as she could only let out moans of pleasure filled discontent.


    The strain caused Destiny''s body to involuntarily send out a stream of liquid throughout her already wet insides that were being thoroughly stretched by Ricky''s pulsating cock as it sought to lubricate and lessen the hold that Ricky had on it.


    However, it only seemed to give Ricky''s cock even more leeway as his tip steadily clawed her womb open until his tip reached inside as it immediately throbbed.


    "F*ck, I''m cumming." Ricky grunted up,unable to hold any longer as he felt an incredibly intoxicating squeeze clamp down on the tip of his cock as he leaned deeper into Destiny.


    At this sudden increase in tempo, her nails suddenly dug into his back only for her eyes to widen after finally registering his words.


    "W-Wait do you have a co-AHHHHHHHHHHH!" Destiny suddenly asked in a worried tone that flushed into an intense scream of pleasure as she sprayed out in an exclamation all over Ricky.


    Ricky''s teeth gritted as he pushed his tippy toes up to get that slightest centimeter as his cum swirled in his balls before shooting in its entirety into her womb.


    The warm milky cum swirled into her little room as a hot pulsating feeling overwhelmed Destiny''s stomach which slowly melted the ends of her mouth into a dumb smile.


    Twitching, she felt the loss of strength course over her as she leaned back with all of her weight as the door hinges, barely holding on, finally gave out.


    *THUMP*


    The door fell followed by Destiny before finally Ricky, who got that last little thrust off from colliding into the ground and into her already filled pussy, letting out a refreshed smile.


    "Oh yeah, that''s the stuff-"


    "YOU MOTHERF*CKER!" A loud voice echoed from the other side of the hallway as Ricky''s curiosity peaked as he gazed to the side to see the sight of a buff bald tattooed hulking abomination of a guy stomping over his way.


    "H-HOW COULD YOU!" The guy roared out towards both his long time girlfriend of 4 years and the random old guy currently inside of her.


    "Uh, can you give us a second we''re kinda busy here?" Ricky awkwardly asked since his throbbing cock was still inside of this tight woman cunt.


    "Dan, it''s not what it looks-'''' Destiny hazy eyes looked to the side only for the color drained from her face as she tried to tell a different story yet her face slightly twitched upon feeling the tip of Ricky''s cock rub against her walls from the sudden movement.


    "YOU BASTARD!" Dan screeched out, grabbing the collar of Ricky before throwing him off of his girlfriend.


    Rolling onto the floor, his ass skidded against the poor quality carpet as he immediately stumbled to his feet only to fall backwards as he saw this mammoth of a man continue to stomp towards him.


    "Buddy can''t we just talk?" Ricky asked while trying to cover his dangling cock by pulling up his pants only to see a milf entering the corridor.


    *GASP*


    The woman gasped loudly only for her eyes to trail down at Ricky''s dangling veiny cock before they slowly traced up to see Ricky''s sleazy smile.


    "See something you like gorgeous-"


    *BAM*


    *THUMP*


    Right as Ricky let out his pick up line after completely forgetting the events surrounding him, a fist came barreling at his cheek before he tumbled onto the floor once more.


    "I''M GOING TO KILL YOU!" Dan''s eyes were bloodshot, clenching his fist tighter as Ricky tried to back up once more while finally managing to pull up his pants.


    "Buddy listen I get it, you hate me because I f*cked your wife." Ricky laughed awkwardly before his pupils dilated when truly registering the towering dude before him.


    Dan stood at a whooping 6 ''7 with a power lifter''s body as the veins on his neck, arms, and legs screamed steroids.


    "BUT!" Ricky held out his hands upon seeing Dan tatted fist that read the words ''Kill'' as he held up his arms to cover his head only for it to stop inches away from his face.


    "But you deserve so much better!" Ricky squeaked out in a subtle tone, his voice down trotted for the coming punch only for Dan to raise a furious eyebrow along with a disheveled Destiny.


    "W-What?" Both Dan and Destiny spoke out in confusion as Ricky realized he hadn''t been punched yet and quickly nodded his head while slowly getting up.


    Ricky wasn''t the man he used to be as his old age had caught up with him, leaving his joints stiff and his bones brittle but most of all, he didn''t have health insurance.


    "Listen, Dan is it?" Ricky first asked while trying to use his hands to deescalate the situation as Dan nodded with scrunched eyebrows.


    "Listen, you seem like a reasonable guy and if I were in your shoes, I''d want to kick my own ass too. But can I at least explain myself before you do?" Ricky tried to appeal to Dan''s sense of reason, hoping to buy himself a moment to explain.


    Dan gritted his teeth, his fist cocked back and ready to strike. But then, with a reluctant sigh, he dropped his arm, his fist still clenched.


    "Fine," Dan said, his voice tight with anger.


    Despite his formidable presence, Dan was a reasonable man, hopelessly in love with the wrong person.


    Ricky took a deep breath, knowing this was his only chance to weasel his way out of this as he puffed out his chest with a show of confidence.


    "Look, Dan is it, I get it. You''re pissed, and you have every right to be. But you have to understand, I didn''t know Destiny was with you. She never mentioned you, not once." Immediately without a second thought, Ricky put the blame on Destiny who was currently putting on her soaked panties as she froze at the sudden spotlight.


    "To me, she was just a beautiful woman who seemed interested, but if I had known she was in a relationship with such a considerate guy, I would''ve stayed away. Since no one deserves to be cheated on, especially not by someone they love." Ricky grabbed his heart in distress, opening up one eye at Dan who was looking completely broken in this moment, as if his world had been shattered at the realization.


    "I''m not asking for your forgiveness or even your sympathy. I''m just asking you to put the blame where it belongs. Destiny made her choices, and they were wrong. But I didn''t know I was stepping into something I had no business being a part of. I deserve better than being seen as the guy who wrecked your relationship when I was just as much in the dark as you." Ricky tried his best to play it off as he tried to look a little more confident but his head was creaming.


    ''Please, I just got this money and I don''t want to use it on fixing a soon to be shattered jaw, JUST BITE DOWN-


    "You really didn''t know?" Dan''s grip on his fist loosened slightly, the tension in his shoulders easing.


    ''OH THE HEAVENS ARE SHINING UPON ME!''


    "Not a clue. If I had known, like I said I would''ve walked away the second I met her. No one should have to go through what you''re feeling right now, and I wouldn''t want to be the cause of it." Ricky shook his head with pity as he pretended to be distraught at this turn of circumstances.


    Dan''s anger seemed to waver as he looked at Ricky, struggling to process everything. Finally, he sighed deeply.


    "Alright. I won''t blame you. But Destiny-"


    "Thank you, Dan. I''m really sorry this happened. You deserve better too-" Ricky nodded, relief washing over him.


    *Sniff*


    *Sniff*


    "How could you betray my love like that Destiny?" Dan blame turned to Destiny as he started to tear up as they streamed down his cheeks as Ricky flinched, not expecting it to turn out like this.


    "I-I-I-"


    "Dan, women like her aren''t worth a cherishing person like yourself. Let your senior buy you a drink and we''ll talk about life." Ricky easily jumped on this vulnerable moment, patting Dan''s back while walking him towards the open bar.


    At first glance, this might seem like a completely good-hearted move, but in reality, it was quite the opposite.


    Ever since the Me Too movement gained momentum, Ricky had been falsely accused of sexual assault twice due to retaliation and if it hadn''t been for a convenient witness one time and CCTV footage of a random stairwell, he would be in jail right now.


    But all in all, Ricky was certain this chick, Destiny, was slightly crazy as he walked Dan to the bar.


    Who else would cheat on a man who looked like a literal silverback gorilla with someone like him unless they were a bit off their rocker?


    It was precisely why, if Destiny ever tried to get revenge on him, he had a plan.


    Ricky would simply get his free defense lawyer to subpoena Dan right here to testify on his behalf.


    2 hours later,


    "And after my mom passed away from breast cancer, Destiny had helped me through all of my grief." Dan poured his heart out while nursing his first beer from the start.


    Ricky, on the other hand, had become completely sh*t-faced and was barely able to form coherent words by this point.


    "Yur a gwood guy Dan, you''ll find someone else, bunch of b*tches in the sea. GIVE ME ANOTHER BEER!" Ricky tapped Dan''s shoulder before beckoning to the bartender.


    "I''m cutting you off, Slick." The bartender shook his head, recognizing Ricky by name since nearly every bartender in the tri-state area knew of Ricky, or at least had heard the crazy secondhand stories about him from their fellow bartenders.


    "Fwuck you!" Ricky cursed out before slipping only for Dan to catch him.


    "Are you okay buddy?" Dan asked since he had now considered Ricky a friend for some weird reason.


    "I require fresh air!" Ricky suddenly announced like a noble from medieval times as the surrounding people looked at him including his son Trevor.


    "Dammit." Trevor hissed as he saw Ricky hobbling toward the entrance and just as he was about to go and reprimand him, he noticed the towering giant, Dan, assisting Ricky.


    "Oh you got to be sh*ting me." Trevor grabbed his forehead as his wife who was talking to a guest looked at him.


    "Honey what''s wro-oh." She asked only to gaze at her husband''s loser of a father.


    "Trevor darling, just ignore him and enjoy-"


    "Daddy, are you okay?" Jessica seemingly appeared out of nowhere causing Trevor and his wife to flinch.


    "I''m fwine daughter, I just feel the neeeeeeeeeeeeeeeed to breeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeath." Ricky elongated his sentences as Dan helped him out the door with a smile.


    "Hello Jessica, congratulations on your wedding and I hope you and Sam have a wonderful life." Dan congratulated Jessica who was a little touched at the gentle giant in front of her.


    "Oh my god, thank you so much Dan! I hope the same for you and Destiny!" Jessica cheerfully spoke only for Dan to show a sad look.


    "Actually, thanks to your father showing me what kind of person Destiny really was, we broke up." Dan sadly spoke before tapping Ricky''s back as he heavily nodded his head.


    "Yes, it was I, THE SAVOR OF THE INNOCENT!" Ricky proclaimed as Jessica started laughing at this drunken side of him.


    "He must have drunk German lager beer." Jessica smiled while helping Ricky out of the door as Dan became surprised.


    "How did you-"


    "When Daddy gets drunk, he sort of takes on a different attitude depending on the alcohol he drinks to the point where me and all my siblings call it the ''spectrum'' and when he gets drunk off of German lager beer, he starts acting like someone from medieval times." Jessica informed Dan who nodded with an intriguing look.


    "Jessica, what are you-oh." Sam was a little worried until he saw Ricky tangling right before the ground as Dan and Jessica tried to holster him up.


    "Honey let me get him up for you, let''s not ruin your dress." Sam insisted as he took the hold of Ricky while leaning closer to him.


    "You just couldn''t stay sober for one night could you." Sam hissed at Ricky who gave him an arrogant smile.


    "NEY, PUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!" Ricky let out a boisterous laugh as Trevor who had come out as well rolled his eyes.


    "What''s wrong with your father honey?" Trevor''s wife, Nora, curiously asked while seeing him recite a poem.


    "He''s drunk off German lager beer." Trevor sighed after knowing the cause of this weird way of acting.


    *BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP*


    Just then, a car horn blared, piercing the air and catching the attention of everyone nearby. The car''s right wheel had burst, causing the vehicle to veer out of control.


    The driver desperately tried to hit the brakes, but it was too late. The car jerked to the right as its headlights illuminated Jessica in a breathtaking light.


    Time seemed to stand still as eyes widened and everyone froze, watching in horror as Jessica, innocent and stunned, stared at the oncoming car like a deer caught in headlights.


    *CRASH*


    "AHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    The shrieking pain of Jessica sounded out, however the only one that seemed to be injured in the entire vicinity was in fact, Ricky.


    Maybe it was due to his knightly personality when drunk off of German lager beer but for some reason that he''d never be able to explain, Ricky rushed forward to push Jessica out of the way.


    "DADDY!" Jessica didn''t hold up the ends of her dress and rushed forward at the crushed Ricky who was pinned to the building by the smoking car.


    "F*ck~" Ricky let out a pained whine as his lower half was completely crushed as the only thing that was holding his insides in his body was ironically the car that put him in this near death state.


    "Jesus christ." Trevor''s eyes shook violently as he rushed not to Jesssica, his distressed sister, but his deadbeat father.


    "Sam!" Trevor yelled right as he reached Ricky causing the groom to flinch into reality.


    "GET JESSICA OUT OF HERE!" Trevor ordered Sam who shook his head in a daze before rushing over to Jessica.


    "No, NO! DADDY!" Jessica tried to pry herself free from Sam but her thin figure couldn''t match against Sam''s.


    "I-IT WAS AN ACCIDENT!" A shrieking cry sounded as eyes turned to Dan pulling the driver out of the car as tears cascaded down his cheek.


    "LOOK WHAT YOU DID TO MY BUDDY, LOOK!" Dan roared but the driver couldn''t even look at Ricky as his humongous fist kept slamming into his face.


    "Trevor~" Ricky reached out as blood dripped down from the ends of his mouth before Trevor grasped his hand.


    "Yeah dad." Trevor instinctively spoke as immediately respected Ricky once he sacrificed his life to save Jessica.


    "Is-.....Is it bad?" Ricky weakly asked, too scared to look down at the aftermath as Trevor flinched.


    "N-No, it''s not even that bad." Trevor blatantly lied since Ricky''s lower half was completely demolished.


    "So is-"


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    "Yes, Jesicca is-"


    "Is my dick alright?" Ricky coughed up countless mouthfuls of blood but still managed to get his sentences out as Trevor''s worried look vanished for a second before he steeled himself.


    "Yes, your dick is fine." Trevor once again lied as Ricky let out a sign of relief.


    "O-Oh, t-thank god." Ricky sighed in relief as the life started to pour out of his eyes as Trevor held his hand til the very end.


    "Thank god."

 Chapter 2: Reincarnated into Marvel Universe 58008

    Chapter 2: Reincarnated into Marvel Universe 58008


    Marvel Universe 58008, 1927


    *DING*


    "Huh?" A loud ding surfaced in Ricky''s mind, slowly opening his eyes with a nasty headache pounding against his skull only for his eyes to widen in shock upon seeing a weird blue screen in front of him.


    "What the hell-WAIT!" Ricky suddenly jerked himself up while patting his body before patting his dick.


    "W-WHAT!" Ricky continued to tap his junk with a sickened feeling before looking down.


    Ricky didn''t give a mere second to register that there was a giant floating blue screen in front of him nor the weird apparel he was dressed in but instead gazed at his dick.


    "Oh my god~" Ricky seemingly whimpered while gazing at his supposed to be monstrous dragon disguised as a dick that one would only see as a child.


    "Ricky, are you okay!" A little scrawny child, no more than the age of eight, ran up to Ricky with a worried face.


    "Golly gee, it''s really bad." Another kid leaned down while showing a gritting expression.


    "Hey you little sh*ts, get away from me I''m having a moment right now!" Ricky tearfully pushed the two kids away while rubbing his head which was showing a blistering headache.


    "Blood?" Ricky flinched while looking at his child-like hand which contained blood.


    "Wait, where are my real hands?" Ricky spoke in a surprised tone as the two kids looked at each other weirdly.


    "What''s wrong with Ricky, Steve?" The taller kid asked Steve who showed a grave worried look.


    "Bucky, I think Ricky hit his head when trying to help me!" Steve grabbed his face in despair knowing this was all his fault.


    A couple of kids from the orphanage had started picking on Steve, but he wasn''t one to back down from a fight as he tried to stand up to them, only to get beaten to a bloody pulp.


    They might have killed him if Ricky and Bucky hadn''t intervened, conveniently walking back from baseball practice.


    "Steve, help me get him to the local clinic." Bucky nudged Steve who nodded his head while still showing an aggrieved face.


    "Why the hell am I a brat?" Ricky shrieked as he stared at a visage that bore no resemblance to his usual appearance, but rather that of a nine-year-old boy.


    "Jesus, Bobby really did a number on ya with that plank." Bucky''s expression mirrored Steve''s after understanding that something was seriously wrong with Ricky.


    "That twit!" Steve grimaced while looking to the side to see a wooden plank with the edge stained in Ricky''s blood.


    "Get your hands off of me!" Ricky, still in a distressed state due to finding himself in another body which happened to be a child, reprimanded Bucky who tried to help him out.


    "Hey don''t blow your wig at me, Ricky. I''m just trying to help." Bucky held up his hands while showing he wasn''t hostile.


    "Blow your wig? What are you, from the 1920''s." Ricky suddenly found the humor in this weird situation as Bucky and Steven looked at each with a sad look before gazing back at Ricky.


    "Ricky, it''s 1927." Steve broke the news with a pained look as he blamed himself for all of this even more.


    "And I can fly!" Ricky laughed out loud while even going so far as to slap his knee but these two kids in front of him weren''t laughing.


    "Oh geez Louise, you really got hit hard in the head." Bucky''s light hearted expression turned into a grave one.


    "C''mon buddy, let''s get you to the doctor-"


    "Hey! I said stop-woah." Ricky tried to brush Bucky to the side only to fall to his knees with Bucky immediately coming up to his side to hold him up.


    "Steve, go tell the Doc we''re coming!" Bucky ordered Steve as he held the increasingly pale Ricky who felt like the world was spinning.


    "But-"


    "GO!" Bucky yelled at Steve who stumbled backwards before rushing to the local clinic as Bucky started lugging him out of the alley.


    "You''re gonna be fine Ricky, ya hear!" Bucky encouraged the profusely bleeding Ricky who was becoming really light headed way too fast.


    "What''s that?" The blood had made Ricky in a daze state as he gazed at the bright blue screen with big letters bolded in the center.


    [Welcome to the Impregnation System Host!]


    [Click Here for your one-time explanation.]


    "The street?" Bucky worriedly asked for clarification as Ricky reached his hand outwards.


    "No, this bright blue light-"


    *SLAP*


    Bucky slapped Ricky''s hand with a frightened look while increasing his pace to the local clinic.


    "DON''T GO INTO THAT LIGHT RICKY!" Bucky urged him but it was too late as the system had already started its one-time explanation.


    [Congratulations Host for receiving the Impregnation System]


    [System Initializing 3%}


    [34%]


    [69%]


    [100%]


    [The Impregnation System has been successfully implemented into Ricky Freeman.]


    [Host has been given full access to the Impregnation System and now the introduction will commence.]


    [The system is split into five categories status, shop, inventory, missions, and gacha]


    [Status allows for the host to check his attributes and traits.]


    [Shop allows the user to use IP (Impregnation Points) to buy things that may aid you in your new life of degeneracy.]


    [Host will be given the IP skill Apex Fertility: The user''s seed will be amongst the peak in the universe and incredibly fertile as your seed can even rejuvenate the womb of a woman who cannot even give birth. All it takes is one load to impregnate any woman in an instant.]


    [Inventory allows you to store unlimited amounts of things that have been bought or won from the Shop.]


    [Missions: Anytime you show any interest in a woman and make contact with them, you''''ll have a set of missions that can be completed as well as side missions for rewards!]


    [Character Sheet: Each woman has a character sheet from the letter grades F-SSS, when you''re bastards are born and are B or above they are given a character sheet which gives the user a randomized skill from their sheet. An encouragement for the host to strive to be a bigger deadbeat!]


    [Introduction complete, good luck in your life host.]


    "Oh god, I am dying." Ricky said in an exasperated tone as Bucky lugged him in front of the clinic.


    "NO YOUR NOT!"


    "SOMEONE GET A DOC OUT HERE, MY FRIEND IS BLEEDING OUT!"


    1 hour later,


    "How is he doc?!?!?" Steve worriedly grabbed the ends of the white cloak of the doctor who simply smiled at him.


    "The boys fine little Steven, the wound shouldn''t even scar." The doctor patted Steve''s worried little shoulder as Bucky let out a relieved sigh.


    "What about his head Doc?" Bucky suddenly remembered as the doctor showed an apprehensive look.


    "You said he was hit with a wooden plank, right?" The doctor asked while looking at the paper on his clipboard as the two kids nodded.


    "I apologize but your friend might be suffering from temporary memory loss." The doctor shook his head as the expressions of the two dropped.


    "Will he remember us?" Bucky asked hopefully but was immediately saddened to see the doctor unable to answer him.


    "It''s all my fault." Steve grabbed his face as Bucky started patting his back.


    "No it''s not." Bucky reminded him before Bucky looked back at the doctor.


    "Can we see him?" Bucky asked before the doctor let out a thankful sigh at this remark.


    "You can even take him but please tell him to stop hitting on my nurses." The doctor rubbed his forehead as the two let out small laughs.


    Although Ricky couldn''t remember the last nine years, both of them did.


    Ricky was relatively the same as his last life, except instead of living to forty-eight like his previous incarnation, he was supposed to die in that alleyway at nine years old in this life.


    Causing this universe to split from the main timeline.


    "C''mon Steve." Bucky grabbed the grieving Steve and barged into the ward before immediately rolling his eyes at the scene.


    "All I''m saying is why not give me a chance in about 5 years?" Ricky said with a sleazy smile as the blond nurse crossed her arms.


    "Listen Ricky, I''m too old for you and by the time you grow up, I''ll already be an old bag-"


    "Nonsense, You''re like fine wine which only sweetens as time flows by." Ricky interrupted the nurse who lightly chuckled while ruffling his hair.


    "Some things never change." Bucky let out a sigh as Steven let out a small chuckle while finally feeling a little relieved.


    "Ricky I''m just some random dame-"


    "Then be my random dame." Ricky grabbed the hand of the nurse who chuckled at his sweet words.


    *Thwack*


    "Enough Ricky." Bucky hit Ricky with a balled up newspaper while unconsciously releasing the nurse''s hand.


    "Wait don''t go-you little sh*t, I almost had it!" Ricky called out but the nurse smiled and waved to attend other patients before seething while looking at Bucky.


    "Why don''t you hit on girls your own age, Ricky." Steve asked with a smile as Ricky showed a weird look.


    "Ewwwwwwww~" Ricky let out in a disgusted tone after seeing his new age in the status window.


    At first, Ricky was greatly confused after regaining consciousness twenty minutes ago.


    However, he didn''t think too much of it after a while, as he was the type to go with the flow no matter how weird things got.


    The system was definitely a strange one, but he still decided to go with it since harping on it too much seemed exhausting for the small-witted Ricky who was too carefree to actually pay too much attention to such matters.


    "Ricky, do you remember who we are?" Bucky asked while Steve''s ears perked up only for them to be perked back down upon seeing him shake his head.


    "I don''t know, a couple of cock blockers?" Ricky shrugged since although this situation was weird, he simply went with it.


    However Ricky decided to keep the whole debacle to himself since it seemed like a drag to get other people involved in this weird system that totally didn''t apply to him from his previous actions in his past life.


    *Sigh*


    Bucky grabbed his forehead as Steve looked guilty as he plopped onto the ground while Ricky raised an eyebrow at this.


    "Alright Ricky, let me fill you in then."


    For the next thirty minutes, Bucky did his best to try and jog Ricky''s old memories, but Ricky didn''t budge at all.


    In this new life of his, Ricky was an orphan in the 1920s, residing in the Roosevelt Orphanage in Brooklyn, New York, named after the 26th president.


    During this era, tuberculosis had emerged as a grave concern, orphaning numerous children across America.


    According to Bucky, Ricky was an average kid who enjoyed playing outdoors and getting into regular fights, either to stand up for himself or for Steve.


    They were also his supposed best friends, though Ricky didn''t think much of them at this moment but decided to roll with it for the time being.


    "Well let''s get you back to the orphanage." Bucky sighed while tapping the bed in which Ricky laid on.


    "Fine." Ricky let out a disgruntled affirmation while longingly gazing at the gorgeous nurse.


    "Will you stop gazing at that broad!" Bucky whispered before pulling Ricky out of the bed.


    "I''ll do whatever I want." Ricky scoffed while taking Bucky''s hands off of him before hopping off the bed.


    "Guys don''t fight-"


    "Shut up Steve." They both said in unison which caused them to look at each other before laughing.


    "Well, lead the way." Ricky gestured while rubbing his stomach with the other hand as his appetite was fierce as the hospital pudding didn''t satiate him enough.


    While walking, Ricky gazed at the new window he curiously was gazing at before after touching the nurse.


    [Mission Received ''Dolly Henderson'']


    Difficulty: Hard


    Character Sheet: C


    Description: Dolly Henderson is the nurse who was attending you in the infirmary. You have shown considerable interest in her and she is indeed breedable. The problem is that she is twenty two and you are a mere nine year old child which makes the probability of this ever happening less than manageable.


    Objective: Impregnant Dolly Henderson though until you start puberty, this likelihood will be almost void though the system still wishes you luck.


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Dolly Once:


    Rewards: 100,000 IP or The choice of Dolly''s skills


    Impregnate Dolly Twice:


    Rewards: 100x Gacha spins


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnante Dolly when she''s ovulating (Incomplete)


    Reward: Familiar Coupon(Epic)


    Impregnante Dolly when she isn''t ovulating (Incomplete)


    Reward: Skill Coupon(Epic)


    Impregnante Dolly when she''s in a relationship


    Reward: Title and 50 Gacha Coupons


    Bonus Missions:


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    [Would you like to accept y/n]


    ''Why not.'' Ricky shrugged when looking at the mission since he didn''t see the harm in accepting the mission since it might happen.


    Ricky also curiously looked at the other tabs which were highlighted as Inventory, Gacha, shop and status.


    ''Gacha?'' Ricky thought while a blue holographic roulette wheel apparead in his view as he looked weirdly at the big bold letters.


    [FIRST HUNDRED SPINS FREE!]


    [INCLUDES LEGENDARY SKILL OR ITEM!]


    Rickly looked at it for a brief moment until his gambling addiction kicked into overdrive causing the wheel to spin.


    *DING*


    [Received:


    Common: Rusted Ax


    13 x Common: Box Of Playing Cards


    23 x Uncommon: Stainless Steel Sporks


    2 x Uncommon: Empty Portraits


    34 x Uncommon: Sheet''s of mint scented paper


    24 x Rare: Fine China plates


    Rare: Brass Knuckles


    Description: New Brass knuckles that are ready to bash the skulls of whoever you choose.


    Legendary Item: Blue Eyes White Dragon


    Description: An original Blue eyes white dragon, vintage, and sealed delicately within plastic.


    Effect: Makes all those in the vicinity tremble in fear at its mere existence alone.


    Legendary Item: Mutant Gene Multiplier Coupon


    Description: A coupon that is a one time use item for individuals who have dormant mutant genes.


    Effect: Once used, this coupon will not only bolster the original power of the user''s mutant gene but will also give a skill that pairs nicely with it.


    ''What the hell is this?'' Ricky thought as he slightly lagged behind the two while holding out not the Mutant Gene Multiplier Coupon, but the Blue Eyes white dragon.


    ''It''s just a normal card-''


    "Hey Steve, are you okay, you''re shaking?" Bucky asked the suddenly terrified Steve who suddenly pointed at him.


    "You''re no better, look at the goose bumps forming on your arms!" Steve let out as Bucky flinched when looking at the hairs on his arm standing up right.


    "What in the wacky heck is this all about?" Bucky asked before the feeling suddenly disappeared as his sights turned to a confused Ricky.


    "Hey Ricky, you feel it too?" Bucky asked as Ricky rubbed his chin while thinking about that card.


    ''I shouldn''t underestimate the power of this blue-eyed white dragon.'' Ricky nodded himself before he felt someone shake him to his senses.


    "Ricky!"


    "What?" Ricky flinched as he was lost in his old thoughts as Steve shook his head while patting Bucky''s back.


    "I think that''s a sign from god to hurry up."


    30 minutes later,


    Arriving at the orphanage, Ricky was greeted with the appearance of multiple children present all around the mansion disguised as an orphanage.


    This was originally the house of Theodore Rosesevelt however he donated it to the city he was born in with specific instructions to make it into an orphanage.


    "CHILDREN, SUPPER TIME!" An old woman called out as all the heads of the children jerked towards the originating source of it before rushing forward.


    "Dang it, we''re late!" Steve rushed forward with Bucky while beckoning Ricky to follow to which he did.


    Walking inside the orphanage, Ricky saw the long line of children, easily fifty or more, all lining up.


    The tuberculosis pandemic was the reason for this as during this period of time it had become an epidemic, as even Steve''s parents were victims of this brutal disease.


    "Well, well, well, if it isn''t the skinny good for nothing and his loser friends."

 Chapter 3: Rumble, IT’S A RUMBLE!

    Chapter 3: Rumble, IT¡¯S A RUMBLE!


    "Leave us alone Thomas, or else." Bucky squinted though Thomas and his friends simply laughed.


    "Hey Ricky, hear what happened to you, how''s your head?" Thomas asked with a carnivorous smile as Ricky frowned which only made Thomas sneer widen.


    "So you did get the piss knocked out of your shorts, ha!" Thomas laughed, but Ricky frowned not at this particular lame insult, but at these really old timey insults.


    Ricky could guess that this Thomas kid, who looked to be around twelve, was a bully, which only made Ricky sigh internally.


    Bullies were always annoying, but the worst were kid bullies, since kids didn''t understand consequences or that their actions have repercussions so they usually go to crazy extremes in the heat of the moment.


    "Shut it orphan." Ricky suddenly spoke without any filter, causing all the kids to widen their eyes.


    He glanced around the place before shrugging, indifferent to the reactions since to him, it was funny if a little twerp got made fun of.


    "Wha-"


    "I mean you got no dad and no mom, yet you''re raising your head up high as if people actually like you." Ricky looked back at the taken aback Thomas as his other friends started rubbing their arms, becoming slightly uncomfortable.


    "S-SHUT UP!" Thomas pointed as Ricky scratched his chin without any concern.


    "Or what you gonna do, tell on me? You''ll still have no parents." Ricky laughed at his own insults since this wasn''t the first time he made fun of an orphan.


    "I-"


    "And for god''s sake tuck in your belly fat. No one wants to see that sh*t." Ricky pointed to Thomas''s belly which was sticking out of his shirt.


    "SAY ONE MORE THING AND I''LL KICK YOUR ASS RICKY!" Thomas looked around at the morale of his friends, dampening as he pointed menacingly at Ricky who simply scoffed.


    "Oh yeah." Ricky scoffed as he drew his hands from his pockets.


    "Yeah!" Thomas yelled as he snarled at Ricky.


    *Crack*


    ''Guess I gotta beat the sh*t out of some kids, again.'' Ricky cracked his fist as although he was a middle aged man trapped in a boy''s body, it didn''t mean he was some saint who let himself be bad mouthed by some tubby fat boy.


    Hell, Ricky slapped a baby one time in an accident but instead of apologizing, he simply laughed.


    "You want to rumble or something?" Thomas scoffed at Ricky''s supposed intimidation as the other goons behind him laughed.


    "Wanna see some sleight of hand?" Ricky suddenly asked while putting his hands together as everyone including Bucky and Steve looked at him weirdly.


    "Look how there''s nothing in my hand, correct?" Ricky gestured as a magician would as the kids started looking at each other before Steve leaned closer to Bucky.


    "I think he was hit a little too hard." Steve whispered as Bucky reluctantly nodded.


    "Yeah but we still need to get his back." Bucky quietly whispered back as they both started rolling their sleeves.


    "Tada!" Ricky moved his hands before revealing the sight of the brass knuckles from the system as Thomas was shocked.


    "How did you do that-"


    Thomas'' eyes filled with stars as the amazement was almost immediately interpreted by Ricky quickly putting on the brass knuckles before unleashing a punch right into his cheek.


    *BAM*


    *SPLAT*


    Blood splattered out of Thomas'' mouth as a baby tooth was launched into the air, the force causing him to lose his balance as he fell with the dislodged tooth.


    *Thump*


    *Dink*


    Thomas fell to his knees, his eyes gazing confusedly at the tiny tooth rolling on the ground until it settled on the curb with the crazed amount of pain registered in his brain.


    ''The only way to stop a bully is not only to instill that look of fear he''s currently about to have, but his little dumbass friends too.'' Ricky''s smirk slowly turned carnivorous as he couldn''t help but laugh at the nerve of these kids wanting to bully him.


    It was becoming excessive, but Ricky knew from his many beatings that bullies wouldn''t listen unless you pushed back even harder.


    "AHHHHHH!" Thomas wailed while holding his newly bloodied mouth as Bucky gritted his teeth and launched forward with the goons standing in shock behind Thomas.


    Ricky didn''t know much about the 1920s, but he knew a lot about reality. He wasn''t going to be someone''s punching bag, whether it be from his last life or now. He wasn''t one to be pushed around by someone lesser than him.


    *BAM*


    *SPLAT*


    "AHHHHHHHHHH!" Thomas let out another pain riddled scream that caught the attention of the other orphans as Ricky threw another punch with his brass knuckled fist.


    *BAM*


    *CRACK*


    Ricky landed one more punch, and this time, Thomas'' consciousness finally gave out as he collided with his jaw, causing it to dislocate.


    *BAM*


    "URGH!" Bucky let out a pained grunt as one of the older kids was holding him in a full nelson while another punched his stomach.


    Ricky turned towards the scene and, without missing a beat, barreled forward at the kid who was about to punch Bucky, tackling him to the floor.


    *BAM*


    Bucky seeing this knew he had to act fast as he recoiled his head backwards causing the back of his head to collide with the older kid''s nose.


    "ARGH!" The older kid stumbled back, but Bucky didn''t hesitate to fly towards him, tackling him to the ground.


    Ricky started hitting the kid with his brass knuckles while the latter tried to cover himself.


    However, the kid had been covering his face with his forearms, which slowly turned purple under Ricky''s wrath.


    *CRACK*


    "AHHHHHHHHH, MY ARM!" The kid screeched out as Ricky finally fractured the kid''s forearm and right as he was about to bring down a punch to his face he was tackled.


    *BAM*


    "YOU LITTLE SQUIRT!" The older kid screamed, tackling Ricky with his utmost intent to stop the barrage of punches onto his own friend, immediately wailing Ricky with as many punches as he could muster.


    But the kid was relentless and way too reckless.


    Ricky gritted his teeth, knowing the right moment would appear while instinctively gazing to the side, seeing Steve moaning and grabbing his side, his lip spewing blood, clearly busted as Ricky''s eyes immediately darted back to the kid, who was supposed to be beating him up, but instead taking a deep breath to regain himself.


    "BUCKY!" Ricky yelled, gritting his teeth and as if on cue, Bucky tackled the kid who was wailing on him.


    "GET OFF OF HIM!" Bucky yelled with bloodshot eyes and once the older kid was tackled to the ground, Ricky got to his feet.


    "BASTA-"


    *BAM*


    *Splat*


    Ricky didn''t hesitate to kick the kid square in the face as some blood splattered from his mouth that allowed Bucky to punch him into submissions.


    Steve was trying to limp away, but a battered kid yanked his hair back only for Ricky to superman punch him into the wall.


    "Boys? BOYS!" The headmistress, Ms. Conwell screamed in horror, rushing over and having to pry both Bucky and Ricky off of the older orphan.


    "WHAT IS THAT MATTER WITH YOU TWO!" Ms. Conwell screeched as Ricky jerked away from her along with Bucky.


    "They were hassling us and-"


    "AND YOU BEAT THEM TO A BLOODY PULP?" Ms. Conwell lectured Bucky who tried to stand up from himself which shut him up completely.


    "What were we supposed to do, let our asses get beat?" Ricky gave her a dumb look, not understanding the stupidity of this old hag-


    *SLAP*


    Then out of the blue, Ricky was reminded that this wasn''t his era, with his introduction into his current one being a good old fashioned slap by the head mistresses.


    "No supper for you, go to your rooms, NOW!" Ms. Conwell pointed to the stairs as Bucky and Ricky both looked at each other then Steve before sighing as they walked over to him to pull him to his feet.


    "I''m guessing this happens a lot, right?" Ricky asked with a bloody lip, rubbing his cheek as Bucky nodded with an apparent black eye.


    "Yeah, we have a habit of finding trouble and Mr. Patriotic over there doesn''t help us as he''s too busy getting the snot beaten out of him." Bucky sighed in distress, though even so, he always had Steve and Ricky''s back as they were his best and only friends.


    Walking to their room at the end of the hall, it wasn''t the last door but a broom closet located right next to them which was made into a bedroom to house more orphans.


    Three beds were squeezed into the broom closet along with a single dresser and one lone desk.


    "He''s the bottom bunk." Bucky informed as Ricky nodded before helping Steve into the bottom cottage.


    "Man, I''m beat." Ricky grimaced in pain as the accumulated injuries started hitting him at this moment as Bucky nodded his head.


    "Yeah, let''s get some shut eye." Bucky nodded as he climbed onto his bed before Ricky climbed all the way to the top where the pleasant sight of a topless girl met his eyes.


    "Nice~" Ricky nodded to himself while looking at the busty brunette plastered on his ceiling while Bucky rolled his eyes.


    "Golly, some things never change." Bucky muttered before chuckling since Ricky always said that when he saw his poster.


    "I''m sorry for not pulling my weight guys." Steve suddenly said in a dejected tone but before Bucky could say anything, RIcky beat him to it.


    "At least you weren''t a sissy and ran away but instead took those punches like a man." Ricky complimented in his own way as Steve instinctively smiled.


    "Really?" Steve asked with a hopeful look as Bucky was quick to chim in.


    "Yeah Steve, as long as you give it your all then it doesn''t matter cause we''ll always have your back." Bucky eased his worrisome friend as Rickey pulled up the sheets.


    "Unless you get into a gun fight then you''re on your own." Ricky joked as the two immediately laughed.


    It had been a while since Ricky had friends; all his previous friends had stopped talking to him after he borrowed money and never paid them back.


    Ricky stared at the topless women for a while before slowly closing his eyes, drifting off into his first sleep since coming to this world.


    Next Day,


    "That''s not happening." Ricky crossed his arms after hearing what Ms. Conwell had just said.


    Even Bucky was surprised, holding in his laughter, though Steve couldn''t hold it in.


    "YOU ARE GROUNDED AND THAT''S FINAL!" Ms. Conwell demanded but Ricky simply leaned back in his chair.


    "Just because we got into a fight-"


    "BECAUSE YOU DISLOCATED YOUNG THOMAS''S JAW AND HOSPITALIZED FOUR OF YOUR FRIENDS!" Ms. Conwell roared in rage, though Ricky wasn''t frightened in the least.


    "First of all, that twit deserved it and secondly, friends, really?." Ricky held up two fingers with the first one being his middle finger as Bucky heisted at the actions which made Ms. Conwell furious.


    "TO YOUR ROOMS, THE THREE OF YOU, NOW, NOW, NOW!" Ms. Conwell demanded in a childish way and after breakfast they were sent back to their rooms once more.


    Ricky rolled his eyes but hopped to his feet with Bucky and Steve following him as they walked upstairs.


    "Hey Bucky, you still want to play baseball today?" Ricky asked as he decided to relax for a while.


    "But we''re grounded-"


    "So?" Ricky raised an eyebrow since he wasn''t about to be grounded with the mental age of forty eight.


    "So if that old broad catches us then we''ll go two days without eating supper-"


    "I''ll cover for you." Steve suddenly said and Ricky smiled widely while gesturing to him.


    "See, Steve will cover for us so there''s nothing to worry about." Ricky gestured to Steve as Bucky showed an apprehensive expression.


    "I don''t know Ricky-"


    "Then I''ll just go by myself." Ricky said while looking around before seeing a window.


    Walking over to it, he saw a tree conveniently placed right next to it as he opened it up while stepping on the window still.


    "Bucky go with him, what if Thomas''s friends from school jump him?" Steve tugged on Bucky''s shirt since they were all homeschooled until middle school.


    *Sigh*


    "Fine." Bucky sighed before following Ricky out but not before Ricky waved at Steve with a smile.


    "Thanks Steve, I''ll bring you something from outside the slammer." Ricky joked, Steve laughing before watching them jump onto the tree then climb down it.


    Walking on the road, Ricky saw the old scenery of Brooklyn in its olden days as he gazed around with wonder.


    Although it couldn''t compare with New York today, Ricky was still amazed by the old scenery. It gave off a familial warmth that the cold skyscrapers could never hope to emulate.


    "How''s your head Ricky?" Bucky asked while Ricky was taking in the surroundings as he gave him a smile.


    "It doesn''t hurt anymore but I still can''t remember anything." Ricky shrugged without a care only for Bucky to frown before Ricky nudged him.


    "What are you, my mom? Stop being such a worry wart." Ricky laughed, speaking in a 1920s dialect as Bucky started to smile at this.


    Their conversation afterwards was lighthearted as they arrived at an old field with a bunch of kids gathering.


    Both of them played with the older kids as they were very skilled at baseball only for the kids to turn towards them in haste.


    "Bucky, Ricky, you fellas need to get out of here." An older kid by the name of James ran up to the both of them while urging them to run away.


    "Thomas''s palley''s have been lurking around here and-"


    "THERE HE IS!" A kid yelled as Ricky and Bucky looked over to see around twenty older kids rushing forward at them with livid expressions.


    "GET OUT OF HERE, WE''LL HOLD THEM OFF!" James shouted, shooing them away as their teammates formed a wall and rushed at the oncoming brutes with Ricky and Bucky both looking at each other before running off.


    James and the baseball team weren''t really close with either Ricky or Bucky, however since they were one of their own, they were going to have his back whether he was in the wrong.


    "WE JUST HAD TO GO PLAY BALL RICKY!" Bucky yelled at Ricky hurriedly once they turned the corner.


    "I DIDN''T THINK THERE WOULD BE THAT MANY RUGRATS!" Ricky yelled back at Bucky as they hurriedly ran towards a fence.


    Ricky might have been confident about beating up a couple of brats, especially with brass knuckles.


    However, those kids continued to pour in, and Ricky stopped keeping track after twenty.


    "HE WENT THIS WAY!" A shout sounded behind Ricky and Bucky as they hopped the fence yet when he turned his eyes, they shook violently.


    Around fifteen kids were running after him like rabid animals, which baffled Ricky before arriving at a two-way split, unsure which way to go.


    "LET''S SPLIT UP!" Ricky pushed Bucky to the side while going in the opposite direction in hopes that a couple stranglers followed Bucky.


    But they didn''t, literally all fifteen rabid kids charged after Ricky as continuous beads of sweat rolled down his forehead.


    ''This is what you get Ricky, this is god''s atonement for beating up a kid-URGH, HE F*CKING DESERVED IT I DON''T REGRET IT!'' Ricky yelled at himself before becoming livid of him reprimanding himself.


    As Ricky was running, he saw another man booking it from the side, though right as he was about to keep running straight, he saw the kids close his ticket to freedom as he changed course around the nearby building before Ricky tucked down into an alleyway.


    "Oh sh*t." Ricky muttered upon reaching a complete dead end only to turn around to see the kids at the entrance of the alleyway.


    Gazing around, Ricky saw a lone door with its sight conveniently right next to a nearby dumpster as he booked towards it.


    "DAMMIT!" Ricky yelled, jerking the handle only to find out it was locked and wouldn''t budge as he jigged the knob that continued to be immovable by Ricky''s childlike strength.


    "Ha, you''re so dead." A freckled face kid hissed while hitting his fist against his hand with Ricky sighing and pulling out his brass knuckles before gritting his teeth.


    ''I can''t believe I''m going to get my ass kicked by a bunch of kids.'' Ricky thought that although he always considered scenarios of how many kids he could take in a fight, he usually imagined himself in his adult body, not as a nine-year-old.


    "Listen I know we''ve had our differences but-"


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *Crash*


    Suddenly, out of nowhere, a window perched about two stories high burst open with two gunshots.


    In the next second, a body fell out of the window before falling right into the dumpster next to Ricky making him flinch.


    Everyone in the alley froze, the gravity of the situation sinking in for these young children. The bloody event was too much for them to process, except for one.


    Ricky didn''t run immediately as he gazed up to see a couple of cops looking down before rushing out from the window''s view, not even noticing his existence.


    Now, if Ricky were a normal or decent person, his thought process might have been different upon seeing the dumpster before him.


    Yet one thought persisted in this deadbeat''s mind.


    ''Maybe I can loot the body of any cash.'' Ricky thought as this hadn''t been the first time he''s looted a dead body though most of his victims were homeless people who had OD''d.


    Rushing over to the dumpster, he pulled the bloody body of a seemingly young man though his features were covered by the glass shards sticking out of the left side of his face.


    Ricky was quick in his efforts as his small hands patted down the man''s body as they traced through his gray suit.


    ''Here we go-'' Ricky thought as he felt a money clip only for the man''s hand to grab onto his wrist.


    "HOLY SH*T, YOUR ALIVE!"

 Chapter 4: Unexpected Find In A Dumpster Dive

    Chapter 4: Unexpected Find In A Dumpster Dive


    *Cough*


    *Cough*


    "H-Help~" The man weakly whispered, his bloodshot eyes conveying a murderous gaze as he stared at Ricky.


    Frowning, Ricky didn''t like the way this guy was staring at him and promptly pulled his money clip out of his suit pocket.


    "No way, you''re a dead man walking-"


    "HEY I THINK I HEAR SOMEONE THERE, HE COULD BE WORKING WITH LUCKY!" A shout sounded as Ricky froze while jerking his head to the right.


    "Sh*t-"


    "Wait." The man named Lucky grabbed onto Ricky''s wrist as the kid motion was immediately pulled back as he grit his teeth.


    "Let go of me-"


    "20,000, if you get me out of here I''ll make you and Benjamin the best of friends." Lucky struggled to get out the words while coughing up blood.


    Ricky shook his head until he heard the number which caused his inner money grubber to unleash upon his body,


    ''Leave Ricky it''s not worth it-"


    "Do you have a gun or something?!?!?!?!" Ricky asked while betraying his own subconsciousness without hesitation at the opportunity of gaining that much money.


    "In my back-"


    *COUGH*


    Lucky couldn''t finish before he coughed up another mouthful of blood though Ricky didn''t need him as he found the old revolver after flipping him to his side.


    "THERE HE IS-"


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    Three shots were fired from Ricky''s revolver as they aimed at the cops, one of the poorly aimed bullets miraculously hitting a cop in the stomach.


    "I''m so f*cked." Ricky cursed at himself while pulling the profusely bleeding Luck out and behind the dumpster.


    "I just shot a cop because of you, I swear to god you better not scam me!" Ricky yelled, ridiculing the man who was bleeding out for not swindling him.


    Being more concerned with getting his money than shooting an actual cop in the stomach since Ricky''s moral''s weren''t all too high when it came to money, which says a lot.


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    "SAMMY''S DOWN!" A cop roared while firing four shots at the dumpster that Ricky was hiding behind.


    "Oh geez, it''s bad Albert!" Another cop shouted while pulling the bleeding Sammy to the side.


    Ricky, hearing this, looked at the broken piece of glass reflecting behind him as his heart beat to the sound of drum solo while gritting his teeth.


    ''Come on Ricky, it''s too late to go back now.'' Ricky was trying not to psyche himself out, gripping the shaking pistol in his hand and taking a deep breath.


    Ricky wasn''t a murderer but an opportunist and despite his morally questionable nature, he couldn''t ignore the lure of a huge sum.


    So, he made the dubious decision to stand his ground which forever change the course of his destiny.


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    "ARGH!"


    Ricky fired three more shots as the first two missed before the last bullet ripped through the cop''s arm which was pulling Sammy away.


    "NICKY!" Albert screamed as Nicky fell to the ground while covering his arm before looking down at the dumpster.


    Albert''s eyes were full of rage as he gripped the pistol while steeling his heart enough to rush at the bastard who did this to his friends.


    "I''m so sorry Dolly." Sammy whimpered as a bucket of cold water was suddenly poured on Albert.


    Gazing to the side to see his partner become increasingly pale by every second he wasn''t receiving medical treatment.


    Albert looked at the dumpster for a second before rushing to his partner while pulling him out of the live fire and once he did, Ricky made his move.


    Ricky rotated the gun in his hand, turning it so that he held the hot muzzle and wincing slightly upon doing so. Before wounding up his arm before thrusting it down on the doorknob.


    *BAM*


    *DINK*


    The door knob that was locked moments ago was now fully removed from the door causing Ricky to be able to open it as he grabbed Lucky''s collar.


    Albert watched with gritted teeth while dragging Sammy to the cop car while Nicky hurriedly followed him while holding his arm.


    "Albert they''re getting away-"


    "SHUT UP AND GET IN!" Albert reprimanded Nicky with a furious expression, closing the door behind Sammy before rushing into the cop car.


    ''I swear I''ll kill whoever helped Lucky Luciano, I SWEAR I''LL KILL HIM!'' Albert swore in his heart as his hands tightened around the steering wheel before he slammed his foot on the gas.


    Ricky pulled Lucky into the building, which was an abandoned kitchen. Once he saw the cops leave, he rushed to Lucky''s side.


    Pulling apart his button shirt, Ricky saw the wounds caused by the bullet which streamed blood down his chest.


    Luckily, one of the wounds was merely a graze, though the other one looked to have hit his stomach.


    "Lucky, right?" Ricky rushed over to the rusted stoves before turning the knobs until blue flames appeared on one of them.


    "That''s-"


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    "That''s what they call me." Lucky showed a bright smile which was contrary to his pale face.


    "Listen, you''re gonna bleed out before I can get you help so we have to improvise." Ricky said as he grabbed a metal rod and placed it above the blue flames.


    Ricky didn''t know jack sh*t about medicine nor did he know if this would help however this was the only option he could think of.


    The blood was pouring out of Lucky, and even the inexperienced Ricky could tell that he was about to die before he could get him any help.


    ''It works in movies so it should work here.'' Ricky''s logic was crazy, yet his determination to make twenty grand was resolute.


    Lucky grimaced, sensing what this kid wanted to do but before he could protest, he looked down at the blood pouring out of his body.


    "Looks like this is the end of Ol'' Charles ''Lucky'' Luciano." Lucky rested his head on the dirty floor while his smile morphed into a self deprecating one.


    "You''re not dying until I get paid!" Ricky encouraged in his own way with Lucky letting out a dry laugh which made him grimace in pain.


    Rushing over to Lucky, he held up the burning rod which illuminated a hot orange color as he hovered it over the bleeding wound.


    "You ready?" Ricky asked hesitantly, not even knowing if this would work as a cold sweat started dripping from Lucky''s face while gazing at the red hot metal pipe.


    "Do it-AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Lucky took two quick, deep breaths before giving his permission, then let out a screeching roar.


    The searing of his flesh caused his nervous system to scream in agony, waves of pain crashing into Lucky''s consciousness as his eyes rolled back.


    Eventually, the pain became too unbearable, and Lucky went limp from overexertion.


    However Ricky kept searing his flesh until the bleeding stopped, then took the rod off to reveal a scorching third-degree burn on Lucky''s stomach, but the bleeding had stopped.


    Without skipping a beat, he started wrapping the graze with Lucky''s suit jacket, tearing it to make a makeshift bandage.


    ''C''mon, I swear in 90210 they did it like this.'' Ricky thought while wrapping the wound until he was satisfied.


    Biting his lip, he looked around before rushing back into the alley, searching for anything to help pull Lucky''s body.


    "YES!" Ricky fist-pumped after spotting a little red wagon as he grabbed it and ran to the dumpster, where he found some dirtied rags.


    Ricky grabbed as many as he could hold and rushed back inside, sliding to Lucky''s side.


    "Hey! Hey! Wake up!" Ricky tapped on Lucky''s cheek repeatedly as the sound of sirens echoed in the distance, making the already anxious Ricky a little panicked.


    *Slap*


    *Slap*


    "Where do I bring you! Hey Lucky! WAKE UP!" Ricky, in a slightly panicked state, asked the half dead Lucky while slapping the cheek that didn''t have little pieces of glass in it as Lucky started moaning.


    "Italiano''s~" Lucky groaned before falling back into a pain induced sleep as Ricky nodded his head.


    "Italiano''s got it." Ricky muttered to himself while lifting up the bottom of his arms before trying to hoist him onto the red wagon.


    The child version of Ricky struggled, his strength barely above that of the average child his age. However, he finally managed to get Lucky onto the wagon.


    Ricky covered and wrapped Lucky''s body with the countless rags before pulling him out of the abandoned building.


    The cop sirens were blaring as Ricky lugged the red wagon along the street, pedestrians passing him without the slightest suspicion.


    It wasn''t uncommon for these adults to see kids pulling wagons, as they were used to the shenanigans that happened in Brooklyn.


    "Excuse me sir, do you mind if I ask you a question?" Ricky asked after lugging the red wagon a little ways away from the building as a slightly fat man with a huge beard nodded his head.


    "What do ya need skipper?" The man asked with a smile as Ricky also put on a genuine smile.


    "Do you know where Italiano''s is?" Ricky asked as the man started curiously stroking his beard.


    "Hmmmmmmm, let''s see." The man started thinking hard while continuing to stroke his beard.


    "Ah I know, it''s around three blocks down and after you reach the rusted stop sign, you''re gonna want to take a left before-" The man continued, explaining as Ricky tried his best to keep up before the man eventually stopped.


    "Anything else?" The man tilted his head but RIcky shook his head.


    "Nope, thank you mister!" Ricky showed a toothy smile as the man also felt satisfied with this younglings attitude.


    "Have a blessed day ya hear!" The man nodded before happily continuing his walk as Ricky lugged the wagon down the block.


    30 minutes later,


    Ricky eventually reached the front of Italiano''s though didn''t even stop when he saw the closed sign as he tried to open the door.


    However the door wouldn''t budge as Ricky frowned before reaching into the rags and grabbing the butt of the gun.


    *CRASH*


    The glass of the door crashed onto the ground as Ricky reached his hand through the door before hovering his little hand before the old fashioned lock.


    The door unlocked as Ricky pulled the wagon into the store before his ears picked up the scampering of feet.


    *BAM*


    "YA GOT A DEATH WI-a kid?" A man with slicked back hair yelled while wearing a wife beater though stopped once he saw a random kid.


    "Do you know this kid, Frank?" A skinny guy asked though Frank shook his head.


    "Never seen this rugrat in my life-LUCKY!" Antoiono couldn''t finish as Ricky didn''t wait to introduce himself before revealing Lucky.


    "I found your friend and helped him escape from the cops." Ricky gestured as Antiono ran without a regard for Ricky''s existence.


    "HE''S STILL BREATHING! GO GET MEYER, RIGHT F*CKING NOW!" Frank ordered as the skinny man known as Meyer flinched but rushed out of the little place.


    Frank looked at Lucky''s body before flinching upon seeing the horrid burn before jerking his head to the right to the unperturbed Ricky.


    "Explain, kid."

 Chapter 5: A True Gambler Never Stops Until He Win’s Big

    Chapter 5: A True Gambler Never Stops Until He Win¡¯s Big


    *SIGH*


    "Hey, stop holding me hostage and give me what your boss promised!" Ricky angrily yelled but Frank on the side shook his head.


    "Not until Lucky wakes up." Frank was firm in this statement as Ricky gawked at him.


    "BUT THAT COULD TAKE DAYS-"


    "Then you''ll just have to wait a couple of days." Frank heartlessly said though didn''t even show a sliver of hostility towards Ricky.


    Ricky explained what had happened thoroughly, which made Frank grateful but slightly angry.


    Grateful that this kid had helped his boss, but angry that he had ended up at death''s doorstep.


    However, although Frank trusted Ricky''s words at face value, he still needed them to be verified by Lucky, since his words were absolute and you don''t get far in this business while taking things at face value.


    "What if he doesn''t wake up?" Ricky calmed down and carefully asked, grabbing his hair as Frank shrugged while picking his teeth.


    "Then I guess this is your new home." Frank quickly countered as Ricky slumped in his chair.


    "Can I atleast get a slice?" Ricky asked while touching his empty stomach which had remained empty until last night.


    "Yeah, why not." Frank shrugged before reaching over to a dial phone.


    30 minutes later,


    "Whoa there kiddo, slow down this ain''t a race." Frank gestured towards Ricky greedily consuming the first meal he had in this life.


    "Damn, this is a good pizza." Ricky ignored Frank and complimented as he let out a hearty laugh.


    "Best believe that Italiano''s has the best pizza in all of brooklyn!" Frank showed a toothy smile while taking a slice.


    "So kid, got any parents that would worry about ya?" Frank asked while wanting to make sure they wouldn''t have any trouble holding him for a while.


    "I''m an orphan." Ricky nonchalantly spoke as Frank frowned and lowered the pizza.


    "...."


    "Was it the tuberculosis that got em?" Frank asked but Ricky shrugged after stuffing his fourth slice into his mouth.


    "I don''t know since yesterday I got hit in the head with a plank and it''s caused me to lose my memories, I don''t even remember my closest friends." Ricky said while reaching for another slice, nonchalantly giving out his tragic backstory which made Frank''s frown deepen.


    "I didn''t mean to-"


    "It''s fine." Ricky waved him off while he choked on the cheese slices as although Frank was a cruel man, he wasn''t a heartless one.


    Frank still showed compassion to kids and women, to a certain degree, and could reason with Ricky on a deeper level.


    *BURRRRRP*


    Ricky let out a roar of a burp while patting his enlarged stomach full of greasy pizza, leaning back in his chair.


    "That really hit the spot~" Ricky let out a refreshing sigh as Frank cocked a smile while raising an eyebrow at the now empty pizza box.


    "Not much of a sharer are ya?" Frank asked while taking a bite of the lone slice he managed to obtain.


    "I''m a greedy man, Frank." Ricky smiled, picking his teeth only for Frank to hit his knee while letting out some muffled laughter while trying to swallow the chewed pizza.


    "You''re an interesting kid, ya know that?" Frank asked while taking another bite of the pizza which made Ricky shrug.


    "Better than being a boring one."


    "You said it."


    The next day,


    Ricky had his head leaned against the wall, his body covered in a blanket as Frank watched over him.


    He didn''t sleep much, as the anxiety of the worst outcome kept gnawing away at his heart, making sleeping near impossible.


    "Hey Meyer, how is he?" Frank stood up as Meyer walked into the room with a refreshed smile.


    "The doc worked all night and said Lucky will pull through." Meyer said and once he did, Frank let out a sigh of relief at it.


    "Of thank the lord almighty." Frank fell back down with a relieved look as Meyer gazed at the sleeping Ricky.


    "The doc also said that although it was a shotty way to close the wound, the kid basically saved Lucky''s life." Meyer said, his eyes as well as Frank''s turned to Ricky, who instead of sleeping, was doing a little money dance.


    "Who''s about to get paid? I''m about to get paid." Ricky repeated this question and answered it while moving his hands all around as if praising the lord himself.


    *PFFFT*


    Frank found the humor in this arrogant little kid dancing weirdly and started cracking up until he rushed over to grab the kid into a hug.


    "KUERK!" A pained breath was let out of Ricky as Frank started squeezing the living life out of him due to his gratefulness.


    "Ya did good kid, ya did good." Meyer nodded with a small smile though Ricky was panicking while his face turned purple.


    "Get this gorilla off of me!" Ricky said in an exasperated breath as Frank flinched before putting him down.


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    "Jesus Christ, you''re strong." Ricky let out after regaining his breath as Frank had on a dumb grin.


    "Of course, that''s why they call me Frank ''Gorilla'' Vespucci." Frank informed him as Ricky nodded in agreement.


    "Can I have my money now?" Ricky held out his hand as they both burst out laughing.


    "C''mon kid, we can''t give you three nickels without knowing if our boss really agreed with it or not but you can leave now." Meyer calmly informed Ricky whose face immediately turned sour.


    "Then I ain''t leaving." Ricky informed the two as he hopped back onto the chair which made the two guys raise an eyebrow.


    "Listen-"


    "I ain''t leaving." Ricky squinted at Meyer who looked at Frank for help but the big guy was simply scratching his head.


    *Sigh*


    "Kid, your already in the Luciano families good graces-"


    Before Meyer could say anything more, Ricky seemingly pulled out a deck of cards from his pocket before setting them down on the table.


    "You guys are part of the mafia, right?" Ricky guessed since they fit the stereotype and asked as Meyer raised an eyebrow while walking up to the kid.


    "We''re business men, nothing more nothing less." Meyer crossed his arms though Ricky shook his head with a small chuckle.


    "Whatever, you guys give loans, right?" Ricky asked while playing with the deck of cards.


    Ricky wasn''t a particularly patient guy and upon realizing that Lucky might be in a coma for a while, Ricky thought of another idea.


    Before he received this system, Ricky was a poor gambler who almost always lost his winnings time and time again when playing.


    This was why he even turned to loan sharks, as he honestly believed that you could never quit too early in gambling, indicating he had a gambling problem.


    However this weird system gave him the opportunity to scam these two in the most curious way.


    "Our interest is serious kid-"


    "Aye Meyer, let''s loan the kid 100 dollars with no interest." Frank took the bait as he pulled up a chair and sat at the table.


    ''HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!'' Ricky laughed inwardly while maintaining a neutral expression.


    He had just taken a card and put it in his inventory, replacing it with another one from a duplicate deck.


    "Fine but don''t put the kid into too much debt."


    ''Debt, all your money is about to be mine''


    2 days later,


    "Urgh~" Lucky let out a small groan as his whole body ached, followed by a flurry of numbness.


    His unbandaged eye opened, and a blurry visage appeared before him as he gazed up at the ceiling.


    "LUCKY!" Meyer rushed to Lucky''s side while throwing away his newspaper while revealing his excited smile at his boss recovering.


    "Is this hell?" Lucky whispered which immediately made Meyer chuckle, patting his boss/ childhood friend''s shoulder.


    "You''re at Italiano''s." Meyer informed the weak Lucky who let out a small sign of relief but before he could close his eyes, they shot open.


    "Wait, you didn''t do anything to that kid right?" Lucky suddenly asked since although he was ruthless, he always repaid his debts.


    "Don''t worry Lucky, that kid is fine." Meyer had a ugly expression on his face as he weakly nodded.


    "Kids a character, right?" Lucky smiled before flinching in pain while Meyer let out an ironic smile.


    "Oh, so you talked with him?" Meyer asked while pulling out a seat next to him while the latter shook his finger.


    "No but when we met, instead of helping, the little bugger started rifling through my pockets." Lucky spoke though not with a frown but a smile as Meyer started slapping his knee.


    "That little scamp!" Meyer bursted out in immense laughter as Lucky joined in.


    "So did you send the kid off yet or-"


    "No, that greedy goblin is in the basement of italiano''s." Meyer ruffled his own hair while confessing as Lucky let out a small sigh while misinterpreting the reasoning.


    "Let the kid go and free him-"


    "Oh no Lucky, he has been free to leave since two days ago but-...." Meyer shook his hands, and a surprised Lucky looked at him, noticing the downhearted expression on Meyer''s face.


    *Sigh*


    "What happened?" Lucky let out a sigh, leaning back into his pillow as Meyer cleared his throat.


    *Ahem*


    "Well first off, the kid is a crazy good gambler."


    Meanwhile in the basement,


    "READ EM AND WEEP BOYS!" Ricky roared as he threw down triple twos as loud dejected groans were let out.


    "Dammit."


    "My money~"


    "Gosh darn it!."


    A chunk of the Luciano gang had gathered in their home base of Italiano''s yet it wasn''t for their usual meeting but instead, all of them were gathered around a table.


    There, three adults sat across from a small child who had stacks of goods towered next to him as he greedily grabbed more items in the middle.


    "Don''t worry boys, I''ll take good care of your valuables." Ricky greedily pulled the pile, slightly salivating while the materialistic goods were gently taken into his embrace as a toothy smile highlighted his being.


    *BAM*


    "HE''S CHEATING! HE HAS TO BE CHEATING!" A man with slicked back hair who just lost all his money roared while hitting the table.


    "How about instead of whining towards me, you go cry about it to your mommy?" Ricky asked with a thoughtful look as an ugly expression immediately formed on his face.


    "Tony we''ve been through this, we''ve searched the kid multiple times and even cut off his long sleeves into short sleeves, he can''t be cheating." Frank sighed while patting Tony''s shoulder as he crossed his arm.


    "But he''s-"


    "Better than you?" Ricky finished Tony''s sentence while putting on a golden watch and a golden chain he had just received from the man whining in front of him.


    "No you''re-"


    "Incredibly good looking?" Ricky continued to interrupt Tony while pushing the valuables into his already existing pile.


    *BAM*


    "YOU''RE A LITTLE SHIT!" Tony roared as he tried to lunge at him yet Frank grabbed his collar before throwing him to the side.


    *Crash*


    "What the hell Frank!" Tony yelled as he rubbed his forehead, a small cut forming that started to drip a small stream of blood along his face.


    "The kid isn''t to be touched until the boss wakes up." Frank informed Tony as he tried to say something until he saw Frank bringing out his brass knuckles.


    "You sure you want to do this, Tony?" Frank questioned only for Tony''s face to immediately pale before he shook his head earnestly.


    "N-No Frank, I''m good." Tony ducked his head as Frank raised an eyebrow before pocketing the knuckles.


    Ricky simply smiled at this while putting on the numerous gold rings onto each of his fingers as he sought to dress himself in gold.


    These past two days, Ricky has been thoroughly scamming all these mafia members out of their precious money and valuables.


    At first, Ricky had gotten worried about poor sports but Frank, the very same who had been scammed out of the pocket money on him, always protected Ricky no matter how much wealth he scammed from his fellow members since the gang was in his debt.


    "Thanks Frank, here my gratitude." Ricky flicked a gold ring towards Frank as he could no longer fit any more bling onto his fingers and it seemed wasteful not to spend his wealth.


    Frank raised an eyebrow but when he opened his hand and saw the dazzling gold ring, his toothy grin was revealed as he chuckled but slipped the ring onto his finger.


    "This kid!" Frank''s chuckle turned into a mad laugh as the other members joined in while Ricky tended to his pile of money.


    "It seems that you kept yourself busy in my family''s establishment." A familiar dry and husky voice sounded as the laughter was flicked off like a lightswitch and all eyes slowly turned to the back.


    "BOSS!" Frank exclaimed while rushing to Lucky who was walking with bandages strung all across his upper body and part of his face while using a luxurious cane to walk.


    "Hey buddy." Lucky let out a small as Frank rushed to pull his boss and sworn brother into his arms only to be stopped by Meyer.


    "You big oof, this is why you need to think before doing!" Meyer reprimanded as Frank became confused before realizing he would have hurt Lucky.


    "I-I''m sorry-"


    "It''s fine but if you and the rest of you wouldn''t mind, I''d like to talk to that little squirt over there." Lucky pointed and all eyes followed its direction before the accumulated gaze gathered all around Ricky.


    "Did you come here to give me my twenty grand?" Ricky, without a hint of fear, asked after putting a wad of money into a golden clip before continuing to do the same thing with a silver one.


    The piles were easily worth around 10,000-20,000 though the money equaled around 8,000 however that didn''t mean that Ricky wasn''t to stay organized.


    "Kids these days" Lucky shook his head while limping towards the chair across from Ricky before sitting down in front of him.


    Frank made a gesture to the other members as they quickly vacated the basement before only four people remained


    Ricky, Lucky, Meyer, and Frank as the two could immediately understand his intentions while taking a seat at the table with Ricky.


    "I hear your quite the gambler-"


    "Ricky, that''s my name not ''kid''." Ricky interrupted Lucky as Meyer scrunched his eyebrows though Lucky held up his hand.


    "I apologize if I offended you, Ricky." Lucky remained respectful and dignified, making Ricky nod his head.


    "You didn''t, it''s just annoying how literally everyone here has been calling me kid while I''ve been literally yelling ''YEAH RICKY'' after winning all their money." Ricky shrugged, passively bragging only for Lucky to smirk before his eyes trailed towards the small piles of valuables.


    "Your skills are impressive." Lucky said while reaching to grab the deck of cards while starting to unravel each of them.


    "Do you know why they call me Lucky?" Lucky asked while slowly undoing the deck of cards as Ricky remained calm while doing so.


    ''Does he think I''m some amateur who wouldn''t replace all the cards after every set?'' Ricky scoffed internally since he had covered all his bases while watching him shuffle it continuously as if looking for something.


    However to his surprise, Lucky didn''t put the cards up right but started placing the entire deck face down while showing a calm smile while gazing directly into Ricky''s eyes.


    "Ricky, let''s make a bet." Lucky said once the cards were all flipped downwards as Ricky squinted.


    "What? Are you angry that I shook down all of your underlings?" Ricky said without a single ounce of fear.


    The reason for this was that it wasn''t his first time dealing with the mob; he had actually come into contact with them in the past.


    However, it was a weird event that could be summed up as him helping the son of a mafia head avoid getting scammed into a timeshare.


    Ricky never knew what happened to the salesmen, but he did get a face-to-face meeting with the leader.


    Basically, Ricky learned that although the mafia was ruthless, there wasn''t anything in this world that they held higher than their word.


    So, when Ricky understood that Lucky owed him for saving his life, he made himself comfortable in his own house, masking his more rude gestures under the curtain of child-like innocence.


    "I will, of course, give you the promised twenty thousand as I am a man of my word." Lucky leaned back with a calm expression only for Ricky to start to gaze at him warily.


    "But?" Ricky asked as he saw Lucky scanning the cover of the cards as if looking for something.


    "But if you can find the king of diamonds on your first try then I''ll double it and you''ll walk out of here with forty grand." Lucky whispered temptations of greed as Ricky''s eyes lit up in a golden hue of want.


    "And if you''re wondering if we''ll come back and steal it, then you have the word of the Luciano gang that no one will take your winnings." Lucky spoke as Frank and Meyer raised an eyebrow in confusion since they didn''t know what he was doing, yet Lucky remained firm.


    "Then I''ll take your bet." Ricky smiled as he started scanning the cards while faking his interest over several before landing one smack dab in the center.


    Picking it up, Lucky''s eyes were glued on it though Ricky used sleight of hands to briefly escape the view of all three of them for a millisecond before replacing it with a king of diamonds.


    "Maybe they should call me Lucky." Ricky bragged before revealing the card to all three of them before throwing the card in front of Lucky who showed an amused expression.


    "Would you like your money in cash or in a bank?" Lucky asked and once he did, Ricky showed a delighted expression before thinking intently about it.


    "What bank?"


    "Bank of America." Lucky informed him as Ricky nodded his head before shrugging.


    "Better than hiding it in my mattress." Ricky joked and Lucky let out a small chuckle.


    "You live in an orphanage right?" Lucky asked though understood when Ricky nodded.


    "Roosevelt Orphanage to be exact." Ricky clarified while reaching for his deck of cards yet Lucky didn''t stop him.


    "I''ll send someone to notify you once it''s done." Lucky informed Ricky as he saw the little kid put the deck of cards and the money into a burlap sack that someone had graciously donated to him.


    "Then it was a pleasure doing business with you." Ricky smiled as Lucky nodded before going to his feet and holding out his hand.


    "The pleasure was all mine, Ricky." Lucky smiled and Ricky shook his hand shortly before he walked towards the stairs.


    Ricky walked out of Italiano''s with a bright smile as he was untouched with a sack full of money which made him chuckle madly down the street.


    "Alright, I''ll be the first to say it but what the hell just happened?" Frank asked after seeing Lucky sit back onto the table while lightly tapping on it.


    "Frank''s right, why did you promise to give away forty grand?" Meyer questioned from the side though Lucky chuckled.


    "Do you know what the most ironic thing about being named Lucky is?" Lucky spoke while reaching into his coat.


    "It''s that I don''t believe in luck." Lucky answered his own question as both Frank and Meyer widened their eyes upon seeing a card being pulled out of his sleeve.


    "But he-"


    "You boys all got played." Lucky laughed while setting down the king of diamonds as Meyer and Frank became baffled.


    *PFFFFFFFT*


    "That little rascal!" Frank joined in on Lucky''s laughter as Meyer stared incredulously at the king of diamonds.


    "At first, I thought the cards were trick cards that had signifiers on them but after scanning them I was wrong." Lucky started explaining while grinning madly at the king of diamonds he had pocketed while shuffling.


    "But when that kid seemingly pulled another king of diamonds out of thin air, I almost burst out laughing right then and there." Lucky spoke before picking up the playing card again.


    "So do you want me to renege on the deal-"


    "No, the kid won it, I never said this king of diamonds but ''a'' king of diamonds so he won the bet." Lucky was a man of his word and wouldn''t go back on what he promised.


    "Then why not say anything?" Meyer asked as Lucky tapped the card on the table.


    "Isn''t it obvious." Lucky smiled as a couple of golden teeth revealed themselves while pocketing the king of diamonds.


    "I want an excuse to meet that kid again."


    Meanwhile at the orphanage,


    "RICKY!" Steve ran forward with clear worry scribbled across his skinny face as Bucky also dropped what he was doing to rush towards him as well.


    "Hey Steve-what are you doing?"

 Chapter 6: Interrogation

    Chapter 6: Interrogation


    "Bucky, I''m fine." Ricky sighed while Bucky constantly circled around him in order to see if he had any injuries, however as Ricky said for the past five minutes he was fine.


    "You''ve been gone for two days Ricky and the last time I saw you was when you were getting chased by over ten bullies." Bucky said seriously, his worry carrying weight, as Ricky shrugged.


    "Well I''m fine." Ricky then walked forward however his two proclaimed best friends wouldn''t simply sit still for that poor explanation.


    "Where were you Ricky? They said you had died. Even the police were looking for you!" Steve worridley yammered on, only for Ricky to ignore the questioning stares of the other orphans.


    *Sigh*


    "Steve let''s just stop, he''s obviously not gonna tell us." Bucky let out a disgruntled sigh though Steve shook his head.


    "No Bucky, Ricky went too far this time and-"


    "My god, will you please shut up." Ricky rolled his eyes while opening the broom closet to reveal their room.


    "Listen if I told you then both of you would be even more worried so can we just pretend that I was here the past two days?" Ricky sighed, climbing up his bunk bed ladder as Steve looked at Bucky for answers but the latter just gave him a shrug.


    "Yeah, why not." Bucky quickly agreed, grabbing a nearby magazine while flipping through it.


    Believe it or not but kids don''t really have long attention spans and Bucky highlighted it after seeing Ricky completely fine.


    "Guys~" Steve whined since although most kids would move on, Steve was a special case.


    "Can it Steve, Ricky''s fine so all is well." Bucky yawned while flipping the page as Steve crossed his arms but didn''t say anything more.


    "RICKY!" Steve was about to let it go before he saw Ricky take out a switchblade after taking down his poster.


    "Loosen up Steve, it''s only a knife." Ricky smiled as he started cutting out a hole in the ceiling.


    "Why do you have a k-"


    "Steve, do you want the whole orphanage to know as well?" Bucky covered Steve''s mouth as the realization dawned on them.


    "Yeah Steve, it''s rude to let others know my own business." Ricky lectured after cutting a hole into the ceiling while setting the burlap sack inside of it before covering it over with the poster.


    "But Ricky-"


    "But nothing." Ricky interrupted Steve after hopping off the bed with a cheeky smile.


    "But if that''s not enough." Ricky led his sentence on as he pulled out his newly acquired golden money clip which immediately made Bucky laugh and Steve falter.


    "Why don''t I buy you both off."


    5 hours later,


    "Man, I''m stuffed." Bucky patted his full stomach with a relieved sigh.


    "I can''t remember the last time my stomach was full." Steve wiped his mouth on his sleeve and revealed a smile.


    "It''s the power of money boys, it makes the world go round but most importantly, it feeds our empty stomachs." Ricky smiled while picking his teeth.


    For the last five hours, Ricky treated his two new best friends to a night of fine dining in the local diner, soda shop, and lastly capped it off with a rootbeer float.


    "Uh oh."


    "We''re doomed."


    "Oh boy."


    The three of them simultaneously spoke different combinations of words yet they all had the same meaning as their eyes locked onto the guardian of the orphanage, Gertrude.


    "YOU!" Gertrude pointed directly at Ricky who played dumb while looking around.


    "Me?" Ricky asked before a huge vein appeared on her forehead.


    "RICKY FREEMAN-"


    "WAIT!" Ricky screamed, holding out his hands making everyone halt including Gertrude who confusedly stopped.


    Then without skipping a beat, Ricky bolted in the opposite direction causing both Steve and Bucky to flinch as Gertrude immediately regained her composure.


    "RICKY! STEVE! BUCKY!" Gertrude screeched at the top of her lungs as the very glass around her vibrated at the highest frequency.


    Bucky and Steve looked at each other and then at Gertrude before finally the disappearing back of Ricky.


    "Run."


    "Yep."


    Then without a second thought, Steve and Bucky bolted after Ricky with the sounds of children laughing sounding out throughout the night of Brooklyn as an oldish lady howled at the moon.


    Meanwhile at the Brooklyn Hospital,


    The clicking of heels resonated in a particular ward of the hospital, accompanied by the tapping of a cane before coming to a halt.


    Slowly, the Italian leather shoes turned towards a door, and through the glass, Lucky Luciano came into view.


    *Click*


    The sound of the door opening awoke the patient lying in his bed which revealed to be the cop that Ricky had shot in the stomach, gravely injured.


    The officer who was being treated in the hospital rubbed his eyes with a groggy expression, before finally opening his eyes in a daze.


    "Who is it-'''' Sammy groggily asked only to halt his words at the sight of a ghost.


    "And here I thought my wounds were bad." Lucky joked while walking closer to the edge of Sammy''s bed.


    Showing a warm smile, he sat next to the bed only for the other man in the room to not reciprocate his expression in the least.


    In reality, Lucky was in an intense amount of pain but was way too stubborn to be confined to a bed which is why he was currently hopped up on painkillers.


    Sammy''s eyes shook violently, yet his body was frozen like a deer in headlights. The very existence he never expected to encounter on the road of life appeared before him once more.


    "How are you-"


    "Alive?" Lucky finished Sammy''s sentence as he took out a cigarette, offering one to Sammy. Seeing him unresponsive, he put the cigarette in his own mouth.


    Lucky then brought out his silver lighter, swiping his thumb across the spark wheel as an orange light appeared to ignite the tip of the cigarette that was gently placed into the ends of his mouth.


    "My boys don''t call me Lucky for nothing Sammy." Lucky exhaled the puff of smoke right into his face before flashing a smile.


    "But do you know what they''ve been calling you after what you did to me?" Lucky asked, taking the cigarette and dabbing the ash on the floor before inevitably returning it to his mouth.


    "A dead man." Lucky''s smile faded along with the color on Sammy''s face.


    "Lucky it was an accident-" Sammy tried to cover up his horrid mistake with a bunch of stammering only for Lucky to shake his head and blow out one last puff of smoke.


    *SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS*


    Then without warning, the end of Lucky''s cigarette buried deep into Sammy''s flesh as the skin started to burn around the area.


    In another sudden motion, Lucky pressed his other hand into Sammy''s mouth to stop the scream as he stared deeply into his eyes which showed his true emotion when gazing at this pig, rage.


    "ARGH!" Sammy let out a pained grunt but couldn''t let out a scream, squirming but Lucky didn''t even let him budge until the end of the cigarette was put out in his being.


    "Do you know what I hate more than anything else in this god forsaken world? Liars!" Lucky''s eyes were filled to the brim in rage as he gazed at the very person who personally gifted him two bullet wounds with a near death experience to go on the side.


    "ARE YOU CALLING ME A F*CKING LIAR SAMMY, YOU SAYING I SAW WRONG WHEN YOU CLICKED THE TRIGGER NOT ONCE, BUT TWICE INTO MY BODY!" Lucky roared as he dug his nails into Sammy''s cheek.


    Tears fell down the edges of Sammy''s eyes as he shook his head at Lucky''s words, knowing what his appearance before him meant.


    "Now, when I let go of this dirty f*cking mouth of yours. I better get the words I want to hear, capisce?"Lucky''s words commanded authority as Sammy shook his head violently, his body convulsing in fear before he released his grip.


    "Now why did a pig on my own payroll end up shooting me?" Lucky sat down on the stool, flicking the cig away before gripping his cane tightly.


    "I''m so sorry Lucky, but I wanted to do right by Dolly and buy her a house." Sammy pleaded as his wedding ring flashed in the moonlight.


    "Those weren''t the words I wanted to hear." Lucky scowled, Sammy gulped instinctively while remaining silent.


    "F-F-F-F-F-Five point gang." Sammy confessed the three words Lucky never thought he would hear utter out of his mouth.


    "What." Lucky''s expression turned ugly at the mention of the gang that took him in and showed him the ropes once he left Sicily.


    "They offered to pay me twenty grand to-"


    "Twenty grand, huh?" Lucky laughed while showing a dry smile while shaking his head.


    "Oh the irony." Lucky stood up with Sammy immediately flinching though slowly calmed down when he saw Lucky reaching for another cigarette.


    "I heard you were only shot once, your little friend Nicky was the one who grazed me, right?" Lucky said as Sammy nodding his head in agreement.


    "You know the saying of a mobster?." Lucky reached into his Italian suit as Sammy''s heart dropped upon seeing a smith and wesson revolver pulled out.


    "A mobster always pays back a debt."


    *BANG*


    "AHHHHHHHHHH!" Sammy screamed as a bullet ripped through his stomach, the pain rippling throughout his being.


    "With interest."


    *BANG*


    Lucky pulled the trigger once more, and Sammy no longer let out any screams as a hole appeared in his forehead.


    The wisps of his life were blown out with a single pull of Lucky''s trigger as he gazed down at the fool.


    "Rest in peace Sammy." Lucky patted the lifeless Sammy''s shoulder before adjusting himself.


    Turning around, he walked out of the room, Frank and Meyer following him as he strolled down the ward.


    "What about his broad." Meyer inquired as Frank nodded to the side as five men walked to clean up Lucky''s mess.


    "We don''t exterminate women." Lucky adjusted his cufflinks, Meyer raising an eyebrow but subtly understood.


    "But if she turns out to be a rat." Lucky side-eyed Frank who nodded immediately after understanding.


    "Then I''ll need my exterminator." Lucky turned forward as a ruthless smile appeared on Frank''s face.


    "And we need to prepare for war." Lucky suddenly announced as Meyer flinched with confusion.


    "With who? What family would-"


    "Our old mentors, the five point gang."


    1 week later,


    "Do you understand Ricky?" Albert, the very man he had shot at just a week and some change ago, asked Ricky, who sighed.


    Ricky knew he had to return to the orphanage eventually, and when he did, instead of Gertrude, this cop was waiting for him.


    It was the same cop he had shot at, though by a stroke of luck, Albert didn''t recognize him and instead came to scare him, though he failed miserably.


    This was supposed to be a stern warning not to run away however, deep down, Albert''s sixth sense was tingling.


    Ever since he found out Sammy was bagged, he had become dead set on finding any evidence to put away the Luciano family, and Ricky just so happened to go missing when Lucky disappeared.


    "I get it so stop already." Ricky messaged his forehead since Albert had been lecturing him for an hour.


    "Alright, alright." Albert held up his hand in defeat though a glint appeared in his eyes.


    "I''ll leave but only if you help me out a little." Albert asked Ricky, letting out a sigh of relief at this finally coming to an end.


    "Anything, I''ll-"


    "Where were you those two days when you were missing?" Albert immediately asked as Ricky halted his words.


    "I was camping out in the streets." Ricky told a bold face lie, right to Albert''s frowning face since this wasn''t at all what he wanted to hear.


    "For two days-"


    "I was scared all right, I didn''t want my ass kicked by that fat ass-I mean, Thomas''s friends." Ricky told another lie since although he didn''t want to fight them, he sure wasn''t at all scared of a couple of snot nosed brats to go into hiding.


    "And the money-"


    "I WAS BEING A BEGGAR! WHY THE F*CK ARE YOU INTERROGATING ME!" Ricky no longer wanted to dance to Albert''s fiddle and decided to switch the tune.


    There was no way in hell that Ricky was about to be classified as a rat in the mob eyes and would rather die a dog''s death then be exterminated in cement like a rat.


    "Language boy." Albert squinted with a reprimanding tone while pointing at Ricky who scoffed.


    "I''m out of here." Ricky stood up off his chair and turned to walk out the door as Albert went to chase after him.


    "Ricky, wait I''m sorry-" Albert saw that maybe he had gone a little overboard when interrogating this young boy only to stop upon seeing a particular man at the door.


    "Who are you?" Ricky suddenly asked when opening the door to reveal the familiar sight of Frank who was confused before seeing behind him.


    Albert halted his steps, his hand immediately trailing down to his side, hovering on his gun.


    Frank was about to make a joke until he saw Albert and shut his mouth, instead looking back down at Ricky.


    "Aye kid, who''s house is this?" Frank asked, gazing at him intently and with a knowing look, Ricky gave him a subtle nod.


    "This ain''t a house stupid, it''s an orphanage." Ricky hissed at Frank while Albert slowly started to continue his steps before arriving behind Ricky.


    "Whoops, I thought this was my girl''s house." Frank let out a single laugh before gazing directly at Albert.


    "Officer Albert, right?" Frank asked as if not knowing in the first place as Albert''s breathing started to hasten.


    "Heard what happened to your partner-"


    "Don''t." Albert''s tone was chilling to the bone but it seemed to warm up Frank''s smile.


    "Although I got a little lost, I''m glad I could find you to say my condolences." Frank hinted to his purpose here as if coming to this orphanage not for Ricky, but for him.


    "Leave, now." Albert commanded, grabbing Ricky''s shoulder and pulling him behind him.


    "You make it seem like I''m some big bad villain." Frank joked while slowly backing up before reaching the steps.


    Albert pulled Ricky further behind him as his other hand hovered over his gun all the while his eyes were locked on Frank.


    "Sorry for the inconvenience." Frank held up his hands before stealing one last glance at Albert who immediately shut the door.


    "Who the hell was that?" Ricky showed a weird expression like a kid not understanding a complicated situation.


    "Ricky, listen to me." Albert suddenly turned and knelt down before grabbing both of his shoulders with a serious look.


    "That man and everyone he hangs out with are bad men." Albert tried to explain it so that this nine year old child could understand it.


    "He doesn''t look like all that much to-"


    "RICKY!" Albert''s eyes were bloodshot as he clenched the child''s shoulder tighter.


    The lifeless body of Sammy appeared in his head as he blamed himself for not being by his partner''s side and he didn''t want another death on his hands, especially a kid.


    "Alright geez, will you let go of me now." Ricky declawed Albert from his being before rubbing the affiliated areas in distress.


    "Ricky, Brooklyn is in chaos right now so don''t do anything stupid and ESPECIALLY don''t go near that man or anyone like him." Albert warned as Ricky shrugged in compliance as he walked out the door.


    "Ricky?" Steve peered from behind a corner as Ricky frowned but walked over to him.


    "What are you doing here Steve, let''s go." Ricky patted Steve''s skinny shoulder and guided him up to their room.


    "What was that all about Ricky?" Steve worriedly asked but Ricky simply smiled.


    "It was nothing." Ricky scratched his chin as he walked into their broom closet of a room.


    Steve hung at the door, remembering the interaction between Ricky and Officer Albert before shaking the thoughts out of his head.


    ''It''ll be fine.''

 Chapter 7: A bystander

    Chapter 7: A bystander


    A couple days later,


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    The sound of gunshots lit up the night, blood spilling in the street as young immigrant men who couldn''t make a good living died while living a dirty one.


    Ricky tossed and turned, placing a pillow on both sides of his head to drown out the popping sounds of the guns.


    "ARGH!" Ricky sat up with bloodshot eyes while looking over to the left.


    As if not bothered in the least, Bucky and Steve were playing cards on their only table in the room with their singular lamp pointing at the duel.


    "Any three''s?" Bucky asked with a raised eyebrow as Steve immediately looked to have swallowed something disgusting as a ugly expression formed on his face.


    "Hehehehehehe~" Bucky laughed madly as his grummy fingers took the three out from Steve''s hands.


    "Oh, hey Ricky." Steve noticed Ricky pulling up a chair while rubbing his eyes.


    "Deal me in." Ricky said in a tired voice as Bucky handed him a couple cards with a smile.


    "We told you not to go to sleep so early, the gunfire doesn''t stop until at least dawn." Bucky lectured while maneuvering the cards around in his hand.


    Ricky grumbled to himself since for the past couple days, he hasn''t been able to get a good night sleep but rather a sun basked one.


    "Don''t worry Ricky, the boys in blue will put a stop to all of this so don''t you worry." Steve patriotically spoke before Ricky scoffed at the childlike nativity in front of him.


    "Whatever wonder boy." Ricky grumbled as Bucky suddenly snorted before covering his mouth in laughter.


    "That''s totally your new nickname!" Bucky pointed at Steve who scrunched his eyebrows.


    "No it''s not-"


    "Do you have any seven''s wonder boy?" Ricky nonchalantly asked as Steve frowned though handed him the card.


    The Luciano gang had officially gone to war with the Five Points Gang, and it was nothing short of a bloodbath.


    Every night, someone from both sides was shot dead and found in some random alley, with the cops turning from law enforcement into morticians.


    Albert had tried to use this opportunity to go after the Luciano gang. However, he soon realized how difficult it was to do the right thing.


    Whenever he looked around at his fellow officers, he was the only one trying to make a difference.


    So, instead of taking care of the Luciano gang, Albert first had to root out anyone in the pockets of the gangsters before making his move.


    This was the main reason all of Albert''s authority was channeled into the department rather than the streets, and the one to suffer was Brooklyn itself.


    "I''m getting sick of this stupid turf war." Ricky scoffed while handing a jack to Bucky.


    Ricky honestly didn''t care about the turf war. However, the fact that it interrupted his sleep bothered him most of all.


    "Yeah, yeah, justice will prevail." Ricky held up his hand as Steve was about to speak before yawning.


    The gunfire rang out for another two hours before the three of them were able to sleep smoothly. However, when they woke up, another problem was waiting for them.


    The next morning,


    "You lot need to learn discipline!" Gertrude lectured in her high pitched voice, making Ricky roll his eyes.


    "What was that mister!" Gertrude pointed at Ricky as Bucky and Steve face palmed knowing he was about to say something.


    "I just don''t understand why you have such a hate boner for us." Ricky stretched while saying words that made Gerturde flinch in surprise.


    Ricky literally woke up just two minutes ago and wasn''t in the mood to deal with this sadistic old bag of a woman.


    "THAT''S IT, NO SUPPER FOR YOU!" Gertrude screeched but Ricky simply scoffed and crossed his arms.


    "F*cking hag." Ricky clicked his tongue though didn''t complain too much since that trash they served could barely be considered food.


    "Y-YOU''RE GROUNDED FOR A WEEK!" Gertrude stomped in front of the unruly child before her.


    "How about you make it two weeks?" Ricky lazily looked up at Gertrude furious eyes as her whole body started convulsing in anger.


    "A MONTH!"


    "Why not a year-"


    *SLAP*


    Ricky''s head suddenly jerked to the side as Gertrude''s arm was outstretched before her as the realization hit him that she slapped him once again.


    Three lines appeared in his cheek as her long nails had caused scratch marks to appear in the wake of her wraith.


    "You dare talk to me like that-" Gertrude showed a vicious smirk as Ricky slowly turned his shocked face back to her while holding his cheek.


    *BAM*


    *Thump*


    In disbelieving eyes, Bucky and Steve not only witnessed Ricky being slapped but also Ricky punching Gertrude right in her nether regions as it caused her to fall to her knees.


    "You, you-" Gertrude became a broken record as she no longer gazed at Ricky above him but eye to eye.


    "Punched you in the cunt? Damn straight." Ricky scoffed as Gertrude grabbed her worn out pussy in pain.


    "I don''t hit woman, but I sure as hell beat the f*ck out of b*tches." Ricky cracked his knuckles while looking at the mortified Gertrude.


    First of all, Ricky had never been a good person and punching a woman wasn''t even the worst thing he''s ever done.


    Although Ricky wasn''t big on fighting, if someone ended up punching or fighting him then he wouldn''t hesitate to retaliate and of course, play dirty.


    *SLAP*


    Then Ricky paid Gertrude a slap back in full as his open palm slid across her wrinkled cheek before her head fully jerked to the right.


    "RICKY!" Steve yelled out in horror after finally registering Ricky''s actions but he completely ignored him.


    "Not so fun being on the other foot, right?" Ricky pointed at the baffled Gertrude before walking past her.


    "Hey Ricky, it''s dangerous out there." Bucky grabbed Rickty while not caring in the least what happened to their supposed guardian since she didn''t deserve his consideration.


    "I''m gonna get us food since once that old bag comes too, she''ll definitely try to punish you two to get to me." Ricky shook his head while opening the door though didn''t take these two since it was too dangerous.


    "RICKY FREEM-"


    "Nope." Ricky didn''t even let Gertrude finish her tirade as he hopped out the door then closed it behind him.


    Leaping down the steps, it wasn''t long until the door swung open though once Gertrude finally managed to make it out the door, Ricky had already ran onto the sidewalk.


    "DO YOU THINK THAT YOU CAN RUN AWAY!" Gertrude screeched as Ricky looked back at her with a smile.


    "Yep." Ricky replied before bolting away.


    Gertrude was surprised by his nonchalant response before stomping the ground viciously.


    Ricky didn''t dwell too much on the repercussions of his actions as he started running down the street, looking for literally any food place.


    However, as he made his way through the streets of Brooklyn, he noticed that barely anyone was outside, and few shops were open.


    ''Damn.'' Ricky stopped after making his way to the shopping district that should be buzzing with people, instead looked like a ghost town.


    Turning around, Ricky made up his mind and started walking in a particular direction before making his way into little Italy.


    ''I guess I''ll settle for some pizza.''


    *Ring*


    The bell on top of the door at Italiano''s rang as Ricky walked without a care in the world through the door.


    An old man peeked his head out of the side of the restaurant however his expression became weird after seeing a kid instead of the usual gangster.


    "Three pizzas please." Ricky set down a five dollar bill at the counter before the old man could question what he was here for or how he could help him.


    "Are you looking for your daddy bambino?" The man, known throughout little Italy as Alfio, asked while putting a towel over his shoulder.


    "If my daddy is three cheese pizzas with one pie with half sausage pepperoni then I guess I''ve come calling." Ricky flashed Alfio a cheeky smile as the old Sicilian immigrant stared dumbfounded at Ricky before cracking a smile.


    Taking the five off the counter, he hummed a tune of laughter while going to get Ricky''s pizza ready.


    "Well look who it is." Frank walked through the door with Tony straggling behind him.


    "Ugh, not this kid again." Tony scoffed while following Frank''s into Italiano''s.


    "Frank and if isn''t my number one schmuck." Ricky fired back while leaning on the counter as Frank let out a holler while Tony scrunched his eyebrows.


    "Why I outta-"


    "Easy there Tony, wouldn''t want to lose a tooth." Frank subtly threatened before reaching for something in his coat before taking out a card.


    "Here." Frank handed Ricky a bank book that acted as a ledger for his new account.


    Bank books, often referred to as passbooks or account books, were physical ledgers used by customers to keep track of their bank accounts.


    "Bank Of America?" Ricky muttered out, which made Frank nod with a smile.


    "It''s a bank founded by Italians, for Italians, if you know what I mean." Frank winked as Ricky raised an eyebrow but pocketed the book.


    "Noted." Ricky nodded as Frank smiled widely at how discreet this kid was at such a young age.


    "You really covered for me back there, you know that right?" Frank nudged Ricky however the latter only rolled his eyes.


    "Well, I didn''t want the cops on my back so it only made sense to take that route at the time." Ricky said as he looked back to see Alfio stretching the dough.


    "Looks like old man Alfio will take his time like usual, why don''t you hang out with us for a while." Frank gestured to the side as Ricky raised an eyebrow but shrugged since it was better than twiddling his thumbs.


    In all honesty, the main thing that annoyed Ricky about living in the ''20s wasn''t the culture but the fact that it was harder to kill time.


    No technology, no smartphones, and no online poker were killing Ricky, as he was experiencing withdrawals from the world wide web.


    ''Man, I miss the internet.'' Ricky thought as he followed Frank to the side, catching Tony''s scowl out of the corner of his eyes.


    Walking up the stairs, Ricky was led to a nice door before Frank opened it to reveal Lucky wearing reading glasses.


    "What." Lucky said without a single hint of emotions as he rifled through documents before finally looking up and letting out a small laugh.


    "How have you been, Slick?" Lucky had a smile on his face before gesturing to Ricky to sit in front of him.


    "Slick?" Ricky asked since he was surprised that this nickname would pop up again as Lucky nodded.


    "I think it goes nicely with your appearance and personality." Lucky voiced his reasoning as Ricky took a seat across from him, feeling his hair that he greased back with some hair wax.


    Finding it a little weird that in this life he was also called ''Slick'' but honestly mind it or care after being so used to it.


    "Alright, why not." Ricky showed his willingness to be called so, though it wouldn''t have mattered since once a nickname is decided on, there''s no changing it.


    "So Slick, why have you come here?" Lucky stood up while walking over to the side before grabbing one trimmed glass and a bottle containing a brown liquor.


    "Why aren''t you sharing." Ricky scrunched his brows as his inner acholic was longing for that bitter taste of bourbon contained within that expressive glass.


    "PUAHAHAHAHAH!" Lucky let out a loud laugh before doubling back to grab another glass and setting in front of Ricky to humor him.


    "You''re a funny guy, Slick." Lucky continued to humor the child in front of him with the full expectation of Ricky spitting out the bourbon.


    "Well I hope to be a drunk Slick soon." Ricky said as he hurriedly grabbed the glass once he finished and started drinking, relishing in the burning sensation of alcohol once more.


    Lucky waited for Ricky to do a spit take and then stick out his tongue in disgust though that action never came but instead a relieved expression.


    "Ah~" Ricky let out a refreshing sigh as he downed the glass of bourbon while leaning back in the chair.


    "You got good taste Lucky." Ricky pointed the glass at Lucky who raised an eyebrow along with a surprised expression.


    "I''ve only met you a couple times yet you always exceed my thoughts." Lucky shook his head as he irresponsibility filled up Ricky''s glass again while pouring himself one.


    "So, what are you doing here anyways." Lucky asked since he wouldn''t have expected Ricky to pop up in the middle of a war zone.


    "This shop is the only one open that sells food with all the chaos outside and reason is that b*tch Gertrude keeps grounding me." Ricky confessed as a buzz immediately washed over him as his child''s body couldn''t take liquor his adult one could.


    Lucky let out another small laugh at Ricky haphazardly downing the glass before reaching over to the bottle.


    "Whoa there killer." Lucky stopped Ricky though the kid suddenly lunged at the bottle only for Lucky to hold it up in the air and out of his reach.


    "This guy~" Lucky shook his head before walking over and placing the bourbon on a high shelf.


    "What are you cutting me off? I just got here!" Ricky suddenly started slurring his words as he experienced being a lightweight in years.


    "Calm down, Slick." Lucky lectured as Ricky hopped back onto the chair.


    "Maybe I''d mellow out with a refill." Ricky waved the glass at Lucky but he shook his head.


    "I made the mistake but if I''d known you were an alcoholic from the jump then I wouldn''t have let you near the stuff." Lucky joked, admitting his own mistake while apologizing in his own way but not directly.


    "Buzzkill." Ricky leaned back in the comfy chair as Lucky took a sip of his glass while shaking his head.


    "You''re a weird kid y''know that?" Lucky commented but Ricky only sighed since it came naturally with being reincarnated.


    "And you''re a dipstick." Ricky retorted with a childlike remark while flying the glass in the air like an airplane.


    "Dipstick?" Lucky tilted his head as he had never heard that term before though eventually shrugged.


    "Well it''s still good to see you." Lucky leaned back in his chair as well as Ricky shrugged.


    "I also heard how you covered for Frank, that was good of you to do that." Lucky took another sip of his glass while giving Ricky an amused smile.


    "Yeah well it was better than getting questioned by that pig." Ricky scoffed in a drunken tone as Lucky nodded in agreement.


    "That copper really is a pain in my ass but there''s not much that can be done." Lucky finished his glass before relishing the bitter taste as he neatly set it onto his oakwood table.


    "What''s good with power if you can''t use it." Ricky asked truthfully since he always wanted to ask this to someone with a lot of power.


    "Power is a process, like a game of chess, it''s not that you can''t make moves but if you act rashly then all your pieces will fall." Lucky answered though doubted Ricky would answer in a rash manner since all in all.


    He was right.


    "That''s f*cking stupid." Ricky hissed in his drunken state and Lucky chuckled with a nod.


    *Ding*


    Alfio hit the bell as he stacked three pizza''s on top of each other as their scent sought to captivate the nostrils of all those around.


    "It is indeed." Lucky then stood up with a smile as Ricky understood this was his time to leave.


    "Slick, if you ever want your belly to be filled then you can come down here and grab a slice, on me of course." Lucky ruffled Ricky''s hair though in reality he was helping him not stumble to the ground.


    "Quick question Slick, you''re Italian right?" Lucky suddenly realized something and asked only to receive a dumb look from Ricky.


    "What, do I look Chinese or something?" Ricky asked as Lucky burst out in laughter while patting the young boy''s shoulder.


    Ricky was Italian in his last life as his grandparents were immigrants from Sicily and Ricky simply attributed this heritage to this life.


    "Aye Frank get a couple of our runners to help Ricky here get home safely." Lucky asked Frank who raised an eyebrow before he started to crack up in laughter upon seeing Ricky''s appearance.


    "PUAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Frank fell to his knees while grabbing his stomach after also realizing that the only reason he was walking was due to Lucky''s help.


    "What''s the ruckus here-"


    *PFFFFFT*


    Even Meyer, one of the most professional ones amongst them, couldn''t help himself as he covered his mouth upon seeing Ricky seemingly swaying in place.


    "I swear it''s never not lively when Ricky''s here." Frank wiped away his cheek while going back to his feet.


    "It''s Slick now." Lucky patted Ricky''s shoulder as Meyer showed a surprised gaze but eventually showed an understanding gaze.


    ''Italian?'' Meyer mouthed before smiling further upon seeing Lucky wink at him.


    "Suits ya, Slick." Frank also let out a wide smile before walking towards the door to go get some of their runners.


    In a quick explanation, runners were the mafia''s entrance job.


    You didn''t join the mafia easily; unless you had an in, you mostly ran errands as a kid to develop a better relationship with the family before finally receiving the trust needed to enter.


    "God damn-"


    *Smack*


    "We don''t use the lord''s name in vain boy." Alfio whipped Ricky with his towel as the drunk kid covered his head.


    "Cut the kid some slack Alfio." Lucky waved him off as Alfio scoffed while throwing the towel over his shoulder.


    "That''s exactly what Jesus did and look where they put him, THEY NAILED OUR SAVIOR TO A CROSS." Alfio put his hands together and made countless gestures but Lucky shook his head with a wry smile.


    "Dio vi benedica." Alfio whispered while making the cross gesture on his chest before going back to the kitchen.


    "I wouldn''t use the Lord or Jesus''s name in vain here as Alfio is really touchy when it comes to religion." Lucky looked down though Ricky had disappeared before his gaze and saw him eating a piece of pizza without a care in the world.


    "Huh?" Ricky asked as the cheese dripped from the pizza though before it could hit the table, Ricky caught the cheese and took another bite of the pizza.


    *Sigh*


    "He''s a character." Meyer walked next to Ricky who was smiling from ear to ear.


    "Sure is."


    "BOSS!"


    Immediately after Lucky agreed, three runners rushed into the establishment before paying their respect to him.


    "Finally, take Slick back to the Roosevelt orphanage and help him carry the pizza''s while you''re at it." Lucky gestured as the three thought they heard wrong before looking at Ricky with dumbfounded expressions.


    "YOU HEARD THE BOSS!" Frank appeared moments later and yelled which made all three of the young teenagers jump into action.


    "YES BOSS!" The three ran as one took the pizza boxes while the other two helped Ricky off the chair.


    "See ya next time Slick." Lucky waved at Ricky as he was basically carried out of Italiano''s.


    "Are you gonna recruit the kid?" Meyer inquired as Lucky messaged his chin with a pondering look.


    "I think he''d fit in perfectly, he already knows the guys and is on a first name basis with all of them." Frank immediately chimed in as Ricky was fun to be around and one could never have too many laughs.


    "I don''t know Boss, he''s really young." Meyer became the voice of reason causing Lucky to continue to rub his chin.


    "Let''s wait a little while and see how this whole fiasco with those backstabbers turns out." Lucky suddenly said while turning to walk back up the stairs as the smile slowly faded away from his face.


    Meanwhile with Ricky, he was completely out of it as the bourbon had completely jarred his brain which left his world spinning.


    "Slick right? Name''s Jakepoldo, but my boys call me Jake." Jake wanted to make conversation as he was the teenager assisting him to the house.


    "Names Rocco." Rocco nodded to the drunken Ricky who simply nodded his head before he lazily looked at the chubby kid holding his pizza.


    "Oh yeah, I''m Edward." Edward wiped away the drool and introduced himself as Ricky nodded.


    "Slick, Ricky, I don''t really care which one you call me." Ricky slurred his explanation as Jake chuckled.


    "Well Slick, how did you end up meeting the boss?" Jake''s curiosity had been gnawing at him ever since he learned about Ricky''s new nickname.


    In the mafia, nicknames were a sort of ritual; one had to earn them they weren''t simply given.


    Some people went their whole lives in the mafia without receiving a nickname, and while it might seem nonsensical, it really separated the higher members from the lower ones.


    "Guess I was lucky." Ricky joked as he started cackling at his own humor with Edward joining in.


    "Hahahahahahaha!" Edward belly jiggled as even Rocco joined in on the laughs.


    "I guess so." Jake understood that it wasn''t his business and finally helped Ricky to the orphanage to the doorsteps.


    "Oh for f*ck sakes-" Ricky cursed under his breath but the three runners immediately heard him which caused them to look at the old woman waiting on the steps.


    "RICKY, GET YOUR ASS INTO THIS ORPHANAGE THIS INSTANT-ARE YOU DRUNK!" Gertrude roared before being applauded when seeing Ricky''s disheveled appearance.


    "Look at Sherlock here, coming just in time to point out the crime." Ricky joked as all three of them giggled at his joke.


    "IS THAT? DIDN''T I TELL YOU NO-"


    "Woah." Edward held out an arm right as Gertrude was about to snatch the pizza''s from his hand.


    "Listen lady, I''m a gentleman and all but I''ll slap the beauty into you if you try to snatch these from my hands." Edward threatened while looking back at the three behind him as if saying ''Who is this b*tch''.


    "He''ll do it too, I''ve seen him slap the wrinkles from a broad before and yes, it did wonders for her skin." Jake joined in on the joke as it was Ricky''s turn to start giggling.


    "Y''know what lady, I think you should test your luck since Edward''s slaps would do you wonders." Rocco winked at Gertrude as Ricky started laughing uncontrollably at these jokes.


    "Y-You-"


    "No wonder you''re a drunk Slick, I''m barely sober and I can''t stand this harlot." Jake raised an eyebrow as Rocco understood this que and let him carry Ricky.


    "H-Harlot? HARLOT! YOU LITTLE SH*TS NEED TO BE-"


    *Click*


    "What, what are you gonna do?" Rocco pulled out a switchblade before pointing it at Gertrude who froze stiff.


    "Do you gotta deal with this everyday?" Jake asked Ricky who let out a tired sigh.


    "You have no idea." Ricky sighed, unhooking himself from Jake before stumbling towards the pizza''s.


    "Ricky?" Steve asked after peering out the double doors and widened his eyes upon seeing a familiar knife.


    "Is that-"


    "Shut up wonder boy and help me carry these." Ricky interrupted Steve and pushed the boxes into his embrace before pushing him in as well.


    "Thanks boys." Ricky waved to the three while showing his appreciation for carrying him home as they all laughed.


    "No problem, Slick." Jake waved as Ricky shut the door behind him as now there were only four.


    "Didn''t your mothers ever teach you to respect your elders?" Gertrude tried to keep up her authoritarian front though back up slowly while doing so.


    "It''s a good thing you''re not one of our elders." Jake smirked while crossing his arms as Rocco showed a sour expression.


    "I''d keep my mother out of your mouth if you value your tongue." Rocco pointed the switchblade at Gertrudes mouth as she flinched.


    "Now you''ve done it." Edward shook his head with Jake joining in with a sigh as he had tried to avoid this.


    "She works three jobs and still finds time to raise her kids and go to church, she''s a saint!" Rocco insisted with gritted teeth though before he could take another step forward Edward stopped him.


    "She ain''t worth it Rocco."


    "Yeah Rocco she ain''t."


    Both Jake and Edward saved Gertrudes tongue as they pulled Rocco back into his senses as he clicked his tongue.


    "I''d advise you to watch your words next time around." Jake patted Rocco''s shoulder while guiding him away.


    "Also just be warned that Slick or Ricky could always call us back." Edward left lasting words onto Gertrude who gulped as he went down the steps to catch up with his two friends.


    "Ricky, those guys-"


    "Ugh, you''re ruining my buzz~" Ricky messaged his forehead as he ate a slice since Steve hadn''t shut his trap since he entered the orphanage.


    "I don''t know Ricky, Steve seems justified in his worry this time." Bucky agreed as he grabbed a slice of pizza and took a bite.


    "When did I get two mothers, what are you a lesbo couple now?" Ricky drunkenly threw the pizza down onto the box before heading to bed.


    "Ricky-"


    "Night."


    Ricky was honestly too tired and too drunk to have a real conversation. Instead of sorting out the problem, he put it on the back burner for his future self to deal with.


    Meanwhile in the depths of Brooklyn,


    "So you''re saying that some orphanage is connected to Lucky, the same guy who won''t even take a world class dame as his wife, and you''re capping it off by telling me he might have a bastard?" A guy with a fedora asked with a baffled tone.


    "That''s what I''m saying." A man solidified his earlier statement, walking out of the shadows to reveal himself to be Tony.


    "Lucky doesn''t show interest in things unless it''s related to him, there must be a connection to him and that brat." Tony explained, the veins on his neck pulsating in rage at that stupid smirk that Ricky always wore.


    "Hmmmmmm." The man hummed to himself, initially not taking it seriously but had to reconsider if it was coming from Tony, knowing it deserved some merit.


    To a passing onlooker, this sort of betrayal might not seem drastic but Tony had been one of Lucky''s earliest followers when they decided to form their own gang.


    However, years of being sidelined had worn him down, gradually transforming his loyalty into betrayal.


    "Fine, get the kid and bring him here."

 Chapter 8: Abduction

    Chapter 8: Abduction


    In the middle of the night,


    Ricky laid peacefully on his cheap bed, dead asleep as not even the popping noises sounding off in the distance could break this tranquil sleep of his.


    *BAM*


    "HUH?" Ricky snorted himself awake after hearing the loud banging of doors which woke up, not only him, but everyone in the orphanage.


    "FIND HIM!" A demanding tone sounded as the three of Ricky, Bucky, and Steve rubbed their eyes in confusion.


    "AHHHHHHHHH!" The screams of children rang out as doors were continuously being kicked in one after the other.


    *BAM*


    Instantly, Ricky was jarred awake as their door was kicked in as two gangsters walked in before turning on the light.


    "Found ya." A man with two front teeth missing smiled widely while gazing at the confused Ricky at the top bunk.


    "Shiiiiiiiiii-" Ricky quickly realized that his situation was about to get complicated and without further ado, the man reached up, grabbed his collar, and jerked him out of bed.


    *THUMP*


    "F*ck." Ricky cussed as the man didn''t even try to cusion his fall but dragged him towards the ground.


    "LET HIM GO!" Steve was the first of the two to react, rushing forward with the intention of freeing him.


    *THWACK*


    The man without second thought, hit Steve square across the face with the butt of his gun causing Steve to be immediately knocked out.


    His body fell lifelessly to the ground as Ricky and Bucky froze before their eyes filled to the brim in anger.


    "YOU BASTARD-"


    *BAM*


    *COUGH*


    Before Bucky could lunge at the culprit, the other gangster buried his fist square into Bucky''s sternum while knocking out all of the air that was contained within his lungs.


    "Stupid kid-AHHHHH!" The toothless man sneered before Ricky punched his nether regions.


    *TWACK*


    *SPLAT*


    Without hesitation, the other gangster pistol whipped Ricky causing a trail of blood to be forced from his mouth and strung across the floor.


    "This little." The toothless man''s eyes were bloodshot, facing the muzzle of his gun at the now barely conscious Ricky.


    "Wait James, we need him alive." The other gangster, Edward, stopped James before he could cock back the muzzle as he gritted his teeth.


    "Fine, but I get first go if we have to beat information out of him." James scoffed but didn''t simply leave it be, kicking Ricky in the stomach with an aggressive force.


    *COUGH*


    "That''s for my ball''s boy." James then grabbed Ricky''s collar and jerked him to the side while dragging him out the door.


    Bucky could only watch with an exasperated face as Ricky''s weak figure was forcefully dragged out of their room and out of their lives.


    After the gangsters got what they came for, they put a bag over his head and threw him into a trunk before driving to a discreet location in brooklyn.


    15 minutes later,


    The bag that was blinding Ricky''s vision had become released to reveal him tied up to a chair in front of five gentlemen.


    "Ello Ricky, or should I say as of yesterday, Slick." A man with a mustache twirling at its ends greeted the beaten Ricky.


    Ricky swirled something in his mouth but before the man could ask something else, he suddenly pursed his lip.


    *PHEW*


    Ricky spit a loogie mixed with his own blood into the man''s face as he instinctively closed his eyes.


    The man froze for a second but slowly stood up before reaching into his coat, pulling out a handkerchief he started wiping his face before opening his eyes which revealed one emotion, rage.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" The man let out a maniacal laughter as the four men behind him shook their heads.


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    Then, as if making a complete one-eighty, the man began to relentlessly punch Ricky.


    Each blow was deliberate and forceful, his fists connecting with Ricky''s face and torso with brutal precision.


    The man only slightly pulled back his punches, ensuring maximum impact without knocking Ricky unconscious too quickly.


    Ricky''s head snapped back with each hit, his vision blurring and ears ringing as the pain radiated through his body.


    Blood trickled from his nose and mouth, mixing with the sweat streaming down his face from the strain of the pain.


    The room spun around him, the walls and ceiling blurring together as the relentless assault continued.


    Ricky''s body convulsed with each punch, his breath coming in ragged gasps, struggling to remain conscious under the onslaught.


    *Splat*


    *Splat*


    *Splat*


    *Splat*


    Blood splattered with each punch as the man''s relentless blows forced mouthfuls of Ricky''s blood to spill.


    Every impact sent a spray of crimson droplets into the air while staining the hardwood floors.


    Ricky''s lip split open, and his teeth rattled with each strike, the metallic taste of blood overwhelming his senses.


    The man''s knuckles, now slick with blood, continued their brutal assault, leaving Ricky gasping and choking on the blood pooling in his mouth.


    The room filled with the sickening sound of flesh meeting flesh, each punch a resounding thud that echoed through the small space.


    Ricky''s vision darkened at the edges, the pain and blood loss threatening to pull him into unconsciousness, but the man''s onslaught showed no signs of stopping.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    "Forgive me, but I am usually a very clean man." The man apologized after his horrifying assault on Ricky, wiping the handkerchief he used previously on his face to clean his now bloodied fist.


    Ricky''s face was bludgeoned as it slowly started to swell and turn purple as even one eye had fully swelled up.


    "Your-"


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    Ricky was struggling, trying to get out a seam of words that seemed to be cut short by the pain instilled by the man before him.


    "Robert Cornweld, one of the leaders of the five point gang-"


    "You''re wiping my snot onto your fist." Ricky interrupted Robert''s misinterpretation of his words, laughing hysterically once his words halted Robert''s movements.


    "Robert, why don''t you let me talk to the laddie?" A red haired man patted his shoulder after seeing Robert show a deadly expression as if wanting another round.


    "Aye Ricky, names Patty O''neil but you can call me Patty." Patty tipped his hat before bending down to Ricky''s eye level but keeping a suitable distance


    "What do you want, fire crotch?" Ricky didn''t even show a lick of respect for these people, spitting next to him as if not giving a regard for these men who now held his fate.


    ''Man, I am so f*cked for no reason.'' Ricky was internally in disbelief at what was happening in the first place, trying to recount what he did to these guys only to come up short in his thoughts.


    "Is this rascal drunk or something?" The other leader, Charlie Phillips, asked the others in a thick southern accent which Ricky started laughing.


    ''Then while I think, I guess I''ll play the crazy card.'' Ricky was trying to get into character since this move had saved him multiple times


    "Ten points to the cousin f*cker~" Ricky let out a slightly drunken tone, trying to look as uncaring as possible which made all of them scrunch their eyebrows.


    "This bloke is really off his knocker." The fourth leader, Gavin Uren, shook his head in a thick welsh accent.


    "Let''s just leave the boy and demand a sit down from Lucky." Tony finally said as it was revealed he was the last leader of the five point gang.


    ''Damn.'' Ricky thought, looking at Tony who definitely hated him after he took all of his stuff.


    "If it isn''t my number one schmuck." Ricky showed himself to recognize Tony who immediately started growling.


    "That''s it." Tony disregarded his old words and rushed to grab Ricky while pulling on his collar.


    "You act tough boy but everyone fears death!" Tony threatened while jamming a pistol into a crevasse of his neck.


    "Listen Tony, I''ve looked the grim reaper straight in the eyes and complained, so I think I won''t be afraid of a mere rat." Ricky rolled his eyes, not even a little bit scared at this guy who wears his ego on his sleeve.


    "And what, he let you go?" Patty humored Ricky as the beaten-up kid''s smile grew wider, a drop of blood falling from his mouth.


    "No, he sighed." Ricky then started laughing at his own bad joke Tony frowned before releasing his collar.


    "Your just some corny little sh*t." Tony scoffed before stepping back a couple steps.


    "And yet, I''m still not a rat-"


    *BAM*


    *Thump*


    As if almost on instinct, Tony turned around and hit Ricky right square in the face before he could finish his words.


    "I DID WHAT I NEEDED TO MAKE A LIVING ON THESE F*CKING STREETS! IF LUCKY WASN''T GOING TO TAKE ME SERIOUSLY THEN I''D FIND PEOPLE WHO WOULD!" Tony roared his own insecurities at Ricky who weakly chuckled.


    "That''s exactly what a rat would say to justify himself, but in reality, you just scurried to another sh*t heap." Ricky huffed out weakly as Tony lifted up his shoe to stomp his face in only for Patty to pull him back.


    "Whoa there Tony, we need the feller." Patty grabbed Tony''s shoulder as his shoe just barely missed Ricky''s head.


    "Yeah rodent, your boss needs me alive." Ricky taunted some more as Tony''s eyes were bloodshot.


    "Look at this smart little rascal, do you think your death will be easier if you taunt us like this?" Gavin bent down with a slight smile as Ricky frowned.


    There wasn''t anything Ricky loathed more about living in New York in his past life than getting involved with the mafia.


    The one thing he always wanted to avoid was being tortured by them, knowing they could make you wish for death a hundred times over before throwing you into the river with a block of cement tied around your ankle.


    But above all, he knew that if he showed any fear to these guys they would swarm him like sharks.


    You can''t be afraid or show fear to these guys in the least, it gives them an upper hand, and the only way to counter these guys is to act crazy.


    Nobody likes dealing with crazy people because of how much of a hassle they are to deal with and Ricky knew that if he acted like this either they''d kill him fast, or let him ice while he got some time to think.


    Ricky clicked his tongue, a sound that seemed almost casual.


    The others, slightly surprised, couldn''t help but finally notice how unafraid this nine-year-old appeared in front of them with his composure, especially at his age, was a little unnerving.


    "Laddie, all we want to know is why you and Lucky are so close?" Patty smiled while pulling the chair back to its legs.


    "Seriously?" Ricky leaned back in his chair as Patty suddenly started to untie his bindings to let him breathe better.


    "Of course, that''s all we want to know." Patty put a hand on his shoulder while showing a soft smile.


    Wiping his mouth that continuously drooled blood, Ricky wasn''t buying this nice guy act in the least.


    "No, I''m asking if you seriously believed I''d tell you anything?" Ricky let out a dry scoff as Patty froze before grabbing his shoulder tightly.


    "Laddie, you don''t owe Lucky nothing-"


    "Yeah, but I also don''t owe you jack yet here you are, beating my ass." Ricky showed a weird expression as Patty nodded his hand.


    "Then I guess we''re going to have to do this the hard way." Patty nodded while grabbing a bandage to wrap his knuckles.


    Ricky looked at this before looking at the blue screen next to him as he got an idea before his smile widened a little.


    "I guess we are."


    "LUCKY!" Meyer rushed into Lucky''s office as the mobster looked up from his papers with a raised eyebrow.


    "The five point gang has kidnapped Slick and are holding him hostage!" Meyer quickly informed as Lucky jolted to his feet.


    "What!" Lucky was dumbfounded before Meyer handed him a letter.


    Lucky snatched it out of Meyer''s hand and started reading it before a baffled expression formed on his face.


    Lucky,


    I know that Ricky is your bastard.


    The Five Points Gang requests a sit-down to discuss the terms for his release, currently held by me.


    Tony,


    ''My bastard-WAIT TONY!''


    "THAT RAT!" Lucky crumpled the paper as his hand convulsed in anger as he read Tony''s name.


    "What should we do-"


    "Gather the family, tonight we settled things." Lucky''s eyes gleamed with a dangerous intensity, fully aware that only one of them would be able to drive away after this confrontation.


    It wasn''t so much about Ricky himself; it was the fact that someone had dared to step on his authority and worse still, it was one of the very men he had started out with.


    "And about Slick." Meyer asked as Lucky bit his lip before some old memories resurfaced.


    "We''ll have to hope he''s alive after it''s all said and done."


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *SPALT*


    Ricky''s face was completely covered in bruises as he was barely breathing at this point as his vision had been confined to a slit.


    Gazing out, he saw the madness ensue as the five leaders were suddenly informed of something before they scrambled to do something.


    The ringing in his ears made listening hard, however after focusing it started to slowly quell until he could hear the conversation.


    "They want to end it here? Tell them to bring it!" Gavin took out a pistol as Charlie stopped.


    "Shouldn''t we leverage the kid first? I mean, he''s obviously a soft spot for Lucky." Charlie weighed his thoughts as Tony stared menacingly at Ricky.


    "I say we shoot the bugger here and get it over with." Tony''s words carried extreme murderous intent as Ricky bit his lip.


    Although Ricky put up a tough front, deep down he desperately wanted to live.


    Hell, he was the kind of guy who would sell his firstborn to the devil if it meant escaping death''s doorstep for one more day.


    In his moment of desperation, he turned to the one thing that could change his fate: the blue screen materialized before him.


    Until now, he had mostly ignored the system, using it only for gambling but with no other options left, he decided to take one final gamble.


    ''Mutant Gene Multiplier Coupon''


    Uncertain about what a Mutant truly was, Ricky hesitated to use it; however, facing a near-death situation, he saw no other choice.


    The golden ticket materialized in his clenched fist as he prayed, not to any gods, but to the system itself.


    ''Please don''t be a scam.'' Ricky thought as he tore the ticket.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Ricky screeched out in an ear-defining scream that resonated unfathomable levels of pain.


    The five leaders all flinched at this while instinctively drawing their guns and pointing them at Ricky.


    "What''s wrong with the blok?" Gavin asked in confusion though Robert and Tony seemed to be delighted at this sadistic display.


    "Let the cheeky brat suffer before he meets his end." Robert spit on Ricky with a sneer as the kid''s words had clearly injured his ego.


    Ricky writhed on the floor, his body contorting in spasms of agony as his muscles tensed and twitched uncontrollably, each movement sending a new wave of pain through him.


    Sweat poured from his brow, mixing with the blood trickling from his nose as the veins in his neck bulged, pulsing with the strain of his convulsions.


    His screams were guttural and raw, filling the room with a sound of pure torment like the sounds of nails scratching against a chalkboard.


    His eyes, wide with pain, seemed to bulge from their sockets while the blood vessels in his eyes burst, leaving streaks of red across the whites, and each breath showed itself to be a struggle, each gasp for air a sharp intake of pain.


    Robert watched, and couldn''t help but feel horrified, as Ricky''s body seemed to fight against itself. It was a scene of utter agony, a body pushed beyond its limits.


    "Let''s just put him out of his misery." Robert walked up right as Ricky stopped moving as he laid on the floor in a battered breath.


    *Click*


    "Live well in hell and inform the devil of my arrival, I won''t be too long." Robert said his goodbye to Ricky while clicking the revolver in his hand.


    *BANG*


    The room reverberated with the echo of a gunshot, but instead of the bullet piercing Ricky''s skull, it appeared to freeze in mid-air.


    To the astonishment of the five men, a translucent force field materialized around Ricky, barely visible but undeniably present, protecting him from harm.


    Ricky, barely breathing but smiling, looked at his newfound abilities with a mix of surprise and satisfaction.


    "I bet that sounded better in your head." Ricky snickered at Robert, laughing out of his mind at that corny line.


    "WHAT ARE YOU ALL STANDING AROUND FOR? LET''S KILL THIS FREAK!" Tony screamed anxiously as he pulled out a gun before pointing it at Ricky.


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    Tony relentlessly pulled the trigger but the bullets all seemed to stop once they hit the barrier as the other four started to follow in Tony''s footsteps.


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    Bullet flew with a mad velocity towards Ricky yet no damage was ever taken as he weakly laid there before they all ran out of ammo.


    Ricky let out a sigh of relief as he looked at the ability that had saved him in this tiring moment.


    Psionic Force Fields: While the cells of the user''s body produce a certain energy manifestation, the cells of his brain produce a different, more potent manifestation. Through concentration, Ricky is able to project an invisible field of psionic force drawn from Ricky''s own mind. He can shape these fields into various forms, limited only by his imagination and mental focus, ranging from small objects like marbles to large domes with a diameter of about 100 feet. These force fields can be solid or hollow, and he can manipulate their size, shape, and movement at will. Ricky can use these fields to travel in the air, reaching speeds of about 25 miles per hour for up to 4 hours before becoming fatigued. His force fields are also capable of blocking telekinesis and preventing mental intrusion, making him highly versatile in combat situations.


    Before gazing at this next ability that paired with another newly awoken ability that made him hesitate before gazing at the five men.


    Then his eyes turned deadly as although he had never been one to kill in his previous life, this time he felt no remorse as he locked onto their vulnerabilities.


    He grabbed the broken axe from his inventory and swung it with determination at the bullets hovering across his barrier.


    "Full Counter."

 Chapter 9: Awakening

    Chapter 9: Awakening


    Full Counter: The ability to counter any non physical attack at its original user with twice the power


    Conditions:


    1. The user must have a conduit or weapon to reflect an attack


    2. The user must be able to react to or swing towards an attack with the proper timing in order to reflect the attack


    3. There must be an attack to reflect.


    *SPLAT*


    *SPLAT*


    *SPLAT*


    *SPLAT*


    *SPLAT*


    As the bullets ricocheted off Ricky''s force field, they became projectiles of vengeance, hurtling back at their shooters with double the force and speed.


    The room was transformed into a gruesome spectacle as the bullets tore through flesh and bone, creating ghastly wounds that spewed blood in all directions.


    The five men, caught off guard by the sudden turn of events, had no chance to react as their bodies were pierced and mangled, each bullet finding its mark with deadly precision.


    The force of the bullets was so immense that pieces of flesh were torn from the men''s bodies, propelled with such velocity that they seemed to merge with the already grimy walls, leaving behind gory streaks and splatters.


    The air was thick with the metallic scent of blood as the bullets continued their deadly dance, ripping through flesh and bone with ruthless efficiency.


    In just a minute, the full extent of the carnage became apparent, as nearly two-thirds of the men''s bodies were eviscerated, leaving behind only scattered remains.


    Five large chunks, each representing a life extinguished in an instant, were all that remained of the once-living men as they were reduced to mere piles of flesh.


    Ricky was simply gazing blankly at the scene as he couldn''t find the words to describe this blood bath.


    Ricky''s inexperience with his force field led to a subconscious release after executing a full counter, resulting in a tidal wave of blood and flesh hitting him.


    His front was drenched in blood and bits of flesh, his calm expression morphing into one of disgust and nausea.


    *BLERGH*


    "Oh god I got some in my mouth-"


    *BLERGH*


    Ricky began to vomit uncontrollably at the gruesome scene he had caused as a piece of flesh found its way into his mouth, triggering another wave of vomiting.


    "What the f*ck!" Ricky let out as he looked at the full might of his power in such a disgusting way.


    "This is disgusting-"


    *BLERGH*


    Ricky couldn''t help but to continue to vomit while being uncaring of the sounds of gunfire traveling through the sealed walls.


    An hour passed as the door slowly peered open before a shocked gasp suddenly slithered out from the crack.


    Opening it in horror, Luck walked into the room which was supposed to house the five leaders only to see Ricky lying in the center surrounded by his own puke.


    *BLERGH*


    Meyer couldn''t hold back his vomit and let it out as although he had seen some f*cked up sh*t before, nothing could compare to this grotesque image in front of him.


    "By the balls of Jesus Christ what happened Slick-huh?" Lucky walked forward to try and help Ricky only for him to stop in his tracks by an invisible force field.


    "I-I don''t know." Ricky felt as if he had to lie, shaking his head while deciding to paint this as an unexpected accident while covered in the red liquid.


    There wasn''t a big reason to hide it since no matter how hard he tried, Ricky felt it was impossible to lie his way out of the blood bath he had caused without sounding like an actual psycho.


    At first when he saw Lucky, he thought of saying there was a faulty grenade but no explosion could cause this horrid aftermath.


    "What the hell?" Frank touched the barrier as subtle waves rippled across it but it seemed to be enforced because of it.


    "Ricky, are you doing this?" Lucky asked while slowly putting away his gun and prompting his left and right hands to do the same.


    Ricky remained quiet as his trust for Lucky might be better than the other five but it wasn''t as much to let his guard down.


    Lucky waited until he truly saw through the blood covering his body which showed the bloody pulp he was beaten into and not much long afterwards, Meyer and Frank did as well.


    "Ricky calm down, I ain''t gonna do jack-"


    "You should leave." Ricky spoke as Lucky began to respond, only to fall silent, struck by a realization of why he held Ricky in such high regard.


    He reminded him of himself.


    Lucky knew he was a mobster, in fact, it was all he had ever known.


    Lucky''s life had been determined from the moment he was born, not by his own choices but by the legacy of his father.


    His dreams were never his own; they were always overshadowed by his father''s ambitions.


    When his father was killed, leaving Lucky free from his control and on a boat to the U.S, he still found himself trapped in the life of a mobster, a role he had played for so long that it had become his identity.


    He had a deep love for his father, but also harbored fear for the way he had been raised in the harsh environment of Sicily.


    This upbringing had shaped him into the man he was, and he couldn''t imagine himself as anything else.


    Despite his love for his father, he didn''t want to subject another child to the same fate he was forced into which is why he avoided love and relationships, knowing the unexpected pain it could bring.


    Yet, despite his intentions, he had unknowingly drawn Ricky into his world, much like his father had done to him.


    But Ricky was different.


    Unlike him, Ricky was alone in the world, dropped on the steps of an orphanage with nothing but a government-issued designation for a name.


    Ricky had no blanket, no note, nothing to hint at his past that Lucky had found.


    He was a blank slate, destined to be shaped by the world around him.


    ''I''m my father.'' Lucky, who had been trying to run away from that very notion, ducked his head downward in regret as he had blamed himself for what had happened to Ricky.


    Blaming himself for wanting him to mold Ricky into the same image that his father had always desired for him.


    ''If I''m like my father, then I should start acting like my father and take some responsibility.'' Lucky thought since it was only right he would do right by Ricky just how his father did for him.


    "Ricky-"


    *Thump*


    Lucky couldn''t even say anything as Ricky had finally collapsed onto the floor as Lucky rushed to his side and picked him up.


    Immediately, Lucky checked his pulse before heaving a sigh of relief before wrapping him in his expensive coat, he took Ricky into his arms before standing up as Frank suddenly remembered something.


    *Snap*


    "I know why this was so familiar, he''s like one of those freaks at the circus-ow~" Frank rubbed his arm as Meyer punched him right as he said that.


    "Time and place Frank, time and place." Meyer shook his head as Lucky frowned when gazing at Frank who gulped.


    "I forget what they called them-....oh! Mutants, yea mutants." Frank quickly explained but Lucky''s face only became uglier.


    "Walk with me." Lucky ordered as he walked out of the room with the two of them trailing behind him.


    "What are you going to do Boss-"


    "Be a man." Lucky''s statement was met with raised eyebrows from both sides. The Luciano family and the other mobsters in the room exchanged puzzled glances at the sight of Ricky, drenched in blood.


    Curiosity grew as they took in the scene before them, trying to make sense of the unholy mess that Ricky had created.


    Initially, there was fear and confusion, as they struggled to comprehend what had transpired.


    But soon, a realization began to dawn, something that didn''t quite fit within the realm of normalcy.


    Respect.


    The rumors of Ricky''s alleged actions in the future, spreading at Lucky''s behest, would not only serve to elevate Lucky''s status within the Luciano family but also solidify his position in the underworld.


    But would spread all across the families.


    "What does that even mean?" Frank asked Lucky who walked into a car with a driver waiting for him.


    "It means that I need an heir to take over the family mantle." Lucky said as the two showed shocked looks as their mouths hung agape.


    Both of them had been trying to set him up with gals for the past decade for this exact reason yet he suddenly decided to do it out of the blue before Meyer seemingly understood.


    *Sigh*


    "Then I guess I''ll get on it." Meyer smiled wryly as Lucky nodded before the car scurried off into the night.


    "What just happened?" Frank asked as Meyer patted the brute''s shoulder with a smile.


    "It means that the Luciano family legacy will carry over to the next generation."


    The Next Day,


    "I-I''m sorry your what?" Gertrude asked in a baffled tone since she had never expected the scene in front of her.


    "You deaf lady? Our boss wants to adopt Slick-"


    "Charles Luciano would like to adopt Ricky Freeman." Meyer stopped Frank while calmly answering the question again while handing the necessary files over to her.


    "I have taken the necessary precautions of acquiring and filling out all the tedious paperwork; however, I still need your John Handcock." Meyer informed Gertrude while pointing to the dotted line as she frowned.


    "This is illegal." Gertrude spoke since it should be impossible for Meyer to be able to get all the necessary documents since she herself needs to request it.


    "It won''t be once you sign it." Meyer said while once again pointing to the dotted line.


    "I''m not signing-"


    *Sigh*


    "Please miss, don''t make this hard." Meyer pinched the bridge of his nose, trying to be the voice of reason only to receive a stubborn cross arms.


    "Alright, go for it Frank." Meyer waved while leaning back in the chair.


    "Finally, Edward told me about this ladies mouth and how it spews nothing but sh*t." Frank scoffed while pulling out his brass knuckles.


    "Jake also told me about her but I thought he over exaggerated it." Meyer let out a small sigh as Frank stood up.


    The runners that Frank grabbed earlier weren''t some random kids who had aspirations to join the family but their own brothers.


    Although Jake and Edward could be introduced through association and join the family very easily, both of the older brothers were severely against this.


    They were runners for the five point gang before they followed Lucky to form the Luciano family and they wanted their baby brother to follow in their footsteps the right way.


    Lucky was against this at first but relented after it was their choice to join and left it at that.


    "Y-Y-You can''t-"


    "I mean we will, and then will forge your signature so what will it be Gerturde, the easy way or the bloody way." Meyer showed an unremorseful smile as Frank flexed the brass knuckles between his fingers.


    Gerturde didn''t think twice as she picked up the pen and started signing her signature on the documents before Meyer grabbed them.


    "Let''s hope you never cross our paths again, for your sake." Meyer stood up while walking to the door as Frank scoffed at her.


    "Act all tough yet don''t even stand your ground." Frank had no respect for Gerturde while following Meyer out the door with the documents that made Ricky the legal son of Charles ''Lucky'' Luciano.


    "Excuse me?" Steve appeared with a swollen eye as the two raised their eyebrows at this.


    "You''re Ricky''s friend right?" Meyer bent down as Steve stood his ground amidst the fear.


    "What have you done to Ricky-"


    "Steve!" Bucky rushed to grab Steve''s mouth with his free hand while carrying a familiar sack with his other hand.


    "You both adopted Ricky right?" Bucky asked after seeing Meyer nodded before seeing the sack held in front of him.


    "These are all of Ricky''s belongings, here." Bucky handed the sack to Meyer who nodded and took it before laughing once he saw the contents.


    "Is Ricky-....." Bucky wanted to ask something but the words were caught in his mouth.


    "He''s fine and you''ll see him again." Frank picked at his ear as Bucky''s face lit up.


    "That good-"


    "Your mobster, right!" Steve declawed Bucky''s hand from his mouth and shouted without fear at the two.


    "PUAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" The two started to burst out in laughter at this skinny twig putting up such a fearless front.


    "Yeah, but so what?" Frank wiped his eyes as Meyer was still laughing.


    "You''re the bad guys, you can''t adopt Ricky." Steve spoke in a childlike nativity as Meyer reigned his laughter in.


    "And what are you going to do about it?"


    "I-I''ll save Ricky-"


    *PFFFFT*


    "Look at you kid, worrying about Slick when you can''t even save yourself." Frank shook his head while walking past him as he bumped his tiny body to the floor.


    *Thump*


    "Steve!" Bucky rushed to him before seeing he was alright though Steve was angrily gazing at Meyer.


    "Stay in your lane kiddo." Meyer said as he started walking before turning back to the two with a deadly gaze.


    "Before you snoop around and find out what we do with mice." Meyer left those words as he closed the door of the orphanage behind him.


    2 days later,


    "Urgh~" Ricky let out a pained groan as he opened his eyes to see himself in a fancy room.


    "Look who finally woke up." Lucky smirked while pulling down his reading glasses.


    "Am I dead?" Ricky asked while gazing up at the white ceiling.


    "I''d hope not." Lucky chuckled while setting down the paper and gazing at his now severely beaten son.


    "Where am I?" Ricky asked as Lucky rang a bell before pulling up a stool to sit next to him.


    "My home is in upstate Brooklyn." Lucky informed Ricky as the latter smacked his dry lips together.


    "Why?" Ricky side-eyed Lucky with the eye that was swollen to the point he could look out of it.


    "Because no son of mine is gonna live in an orphanage." Lucky hinted to which RIcky picked up on it immediately.


    "You''re kidding, you adopted me?" Ricky asked in a baffled tone only for Lucky to nod.


    "I might have accidentally threw you into this life but i''m not going leave you out to dry now that your here." Lucky patted Ricky''s confused shoulder before shrugging and letting out a small chuckle.


    "Do I call you pop''s now or?" Ricky joked to which Lucky laughed.


    "If you want." Lucky shrugged as the door opened with a maid walking in with a carriage of soups.


    "Ugh, soup." Ricky loathed this poor excuse for a meal however right now it was the only thing he could eat.


    "Don''t be a f*cking baby." Lucky scoffed as the maid set up the tray right above him.


    Slowly, she started to spoon feed him as Ricky became surprised at the taste as Lucky cracked a smile.


    "Good right?" Lucky chuckled though Ricky''s belly grumbled for more while his eyes were lasered in on the meal.


    After about twenty minutes, the maid had finished feeding Ricky before leaving the two alone in the room once more.


    "So what now, am I Ricky Luciano now?" Ricky asked as Lucky shrugged with an uncaring expression.


    "It honestly doesn''t matter." Lucky said as if giving the choice to Ricky who nodded.


    ''Might as well start this new life with a new name.''


    "Ricky Luciano, kinda has a nice ring to it." Ricky gave his permission as Lucky cracked a smile while patting his shoulder.


    "Alright but get some rest, Slick." Lucky informed him while walking out the door as Ricky steeled into the egyptian cotton sheets.


    ''Well, I guess this new life thing isn''t all that bad.''


    Lucky walked through the hall of his large mansion before opening the door to reveal his luxurious office.


    Walking forward, he sat at the helm of the desk while starting to fill out tedious paperwork as a new frame was propped up behind him.


    It was a name certificate that didn''t have his own name but another as it read two words in big bold letters.


    ''Ricky Luciano.''

 Chapter 10: Ricky Luciano

    Chapter 10: Ricky Luciano


    1 month later,


    Ricky had recovered after a month due to the combination of tentative care from Lucky''s personal staff and the best medicine dirty money could buy.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    "Ricky, you have guests should I let them in?" Ricky''s personal maid, Isabella, a kind Italian immigrant, asked through the door.


    "Yes, you can let them in." Ricky gave permission as Isabella opened the door to reveal three teengaer''s Jake, Rocco, and Edward.


    "Oh it''s uh, you guys?" Ricky smiled as he had completely forgotten the names of these three and poorly tried to play it off.


    "I''m Jake, this is Rocca, and that''s Edward." Jake quickly reintroduced himself as well as the other two while understanding the poor recollection since he was sh*t faced.


    "Slick, is it true? Did you really wack the leaders of the five point gang as well as that rat!" Rocca excitedly rushed over to Ricky as he held up an arm.


    *Smack*


    "Seriously Rocco, read the room." Jake showed the qualities in his older brother while slapping the back of Rocca''s head.


    "Ow~" Rocca frowned while rubbing the back of his head.


    "Yeah, it''s the truth." Ricky shrugged while admitting the truth.


    "I KNEW IT!" Rocca excitedly fist pumped as Jake showed a shocked look.


    "Whoa." Edward gasped in amazement as the stories that had been circulating had been crazy.


    "So are the stories about you true?" Edward rushed forward as Jake scrunched his eyebrows.


    "Edward-"


    "It''s fine, what stories?" Ricky held up a hand to Jake while inquiring as Edward nodded his head.


    "Word on the street is that you singlandly ripped apart each leader for messing with Lucky and once the boss found out, he was so impressed with your ruthlessness he adopted you!" Edward jumped up and down as his second chin jiggled ever so slightly as Jake gazed at him in a dead panned expression.


    "That''s obviously over-"


    "Yeah, kind of." Ricky admitted since he decided that this power would be found out sooner or later and decided to admit it.


    At first, Ricky was thinking of hiding it for fear of government experimentation until he realized that he literally had the backing of a notorious mafia family behind him.


    "Here look." Ricky suddenly said as a transparent barrier appeared around him which made the three of them flinch.


    "No way!" Rocca exclaimed while tapping the barrier with shock.


    "Wait then how did you kill-defeat the leader of the five point gang?" Jake asked Ricky who nodded before pointing at a baseball bat.


    "Throw that snowglobe at me and find out." Ricky said though Jake immediately held his hands up in defeat.


    "I''m good."


    Even if Jake wasn''t in his right mind, he wouldn''t be stupid enough to hit someone who actually took out the five most ruthless people that used to basically own the south side of brooklyn.


    "I''ll do it!" Edward ran to grab a snowglobe as Jake facepalmed at his friend''s stupidity since although he wasn''t stupid enough to do it, others weren''t.


    "Ok, ready?" Edward asked as Ricky nodded with a cheeky smile.


    "Give me your best shot." Ricky taunted as Edward nodded while seriously gazing at Ricky.


    "Hup!" Edward had a running start before throwing it as hard as he could at the barrier surrounding Ricky.


    "Full counter."


    *WHOOSH*


    *BAM*


    *THUD*


    Right as Edward''s projectile made contact with the barrier, a force double what he inputted into the barrier was thrusted into him which whipped him across his new large bedroom and tumbled into the nearby wall.


    "Urgh~" Edward grabbed his head as Jake rushed to his side before sighing in relief at him being okay.


    "Alright let''s not-"


    "MY TURN!"


    "Full counter."


    *WHOOSH*


    *BAM*


    *THUD*


    Rocco grabbed a bat this time and in the next second flew back right smack to the side of Edward as his head swayed back and forth as his vision spun all around.


    "Cool right?" Ricky smiled as Jake nodded instinctively before realizing he was smiling.


    "The leaders all shot their rounds into my barrier and I propelled it back at them." Ricky explained without a care in the world since his abilities were cut and dry.


    "So the rumors about you being one of those mutants are true." Edward grumbled as Jake punched his shoulder again.


    "He ain''t a carnival act!" Jake rubbed his forehead in distress at his hopeless friends as Rocco shrugged.


    "I think it sounds cool, mutant." Rocco said as if imagining it in colored lights as Ricky thought for a while.


    "Wait, there''s others like me?" Ricky curiously asked and Edward nodded with affirmation but was quiet afterwards.


    *Cough*


    Jake, Edward, and Rocco were all quiet at this junction since they all knew of mutants and the stigma that was attached to them.


    "Listen Slick, mutants don''t have the best record-"


    "Rocco, what is he trying to say?"


    "Mutants don''t have the brightest opinion for those who follow the church, they think it''s the devil''s powers." Rocco explained on command as the other two looked to the side since this was what they were taught.


    "It isn''t a huge deal, but Lucky put a gag order on it as he only allowed the rumors about you killing the bosses to spread." Jake informed him as Ricky raised an eyebrow before shrugging at these future problems for later.


    "There is also a passing circus that puts up a special act that includes the ''Mutants'' who can do incredible things." Edward informed him as he nodded.


    "Where is it, I''m curious?" Ricky asked but Edward shook his head.


    "I don''t know, it passed by a couple months ago." Edward informed him as Ricky looked plainly at him as well as Jake.


    *Sigh*


    "Well you guys caught me right on my way out." Ricky informed them while walking towards the door as Jake rushed after him.


    "Alone?" Jake asked with slight worry and Ricky weirdly nodded.


    "You can''t." Jake shook his head which made Ricky have a plain face.


    "And why is that?" Ricky asked since can literally propel a bullet.


    "Because you''re the new heir to the Luciano family!" Jake grabbed his shoulder and tried to shake some sense into him.


    "I am?" Ricky asked while scratching his hair as Edward and Rocco followed them.


    "Yeah Slick, the boss hasn''t taken a doll as a wife nor had kids which technically makes you the heir to the family." Edward pointed to him as he was a little surprised.


    "That''s ridiculous and totally not how it works, right?" Ricky scoffed only to see the dead serious faces of the three.


    "We might be a crime family, but all families have rules and familial ties are the strongest bond within any mafia." Jake explained to Ricky who really tried to pay attention but was getting more and more distracted by his surroundings.


    "I''m not even his real kid-"


    "It doesn''t matter, the news that your blood is from Sicily has already solidified your position." Jake informed him as Ricky shook his head at this weird roundabout way of joining the mafia.


    "Some of the members might not agree, but Lucky will snuff out those who disagree." Rocco added, knowing that Lucky would most likely do that action since it fell in line with his personality.


    "Cool." Ricky gave an honest response since he was essentially the criminal underworld''s version of a trust fund baby now.


    "Cool? Slick, your situation is really serious." Jake hurridled followed Ricky out the door as the two followed behind them.


    "It looks that way." Ricky affirmed Jake''s words as he started walking down the lavish spiral staircase.


    "Then why aren''t you worried-"


    "Because that''s exhausting." Ricky interrupted Jake with a small sigh as the three of them flinched.


    "If I''m worried about every little thing then I''d end up in a wack house." Ricky commented while continuing his walk down the stairs.


    Ricky had made a lot of enemies in his last life, mostly loan sharks, but he didn''t spend every waking moment fearing their retaliation but simply lived his life.


    "Listen you can come with me or not, I don''t care but I''m leaving either way." Ricky spoke as he opened the door and walked out.


    The three of them looked at each other for a while before they all nodded and rushed after their new designated leader.


    Ricky walked down around brooklyn but instead of the usual uncaring expression on the passing pedestrian, he received different looks.


    Their expressions when gazing at him were either respect or fear though in the end, they all bowed their heads in his presence which was a new experience for him.


    "This is weird." Ricky voiced out his words as Jake shrugged.


    "You basically stopped a turf war that would''ve been drawn out for months, maybe even years in a single day, people are warranted to respect the very ground you walk on." Jake commented since in the eyes of the common person, Ricky was sort of a hero and a villain.


    It wasn''t all unlikely for civilians to get caught up in the crossfire of gang attacks and as the turf war ramped up, so did the accidental shootings.


    Then Ricky appeared out of the blue and squashed the heads of the entire operation in a single day while disbanding a gang that had been active for more than thirty years in brooklyn after taking out its central pillars in one fell swoop.


    Ricky''s nine year old figure became a balance of whether to fear or respect him before most regarded him as a necessary evil.


    "Why did you come back to this dump?" Rocco asked after arriving at the orphanage alongside him.


    "I left something here." Ricky left the sentence ambiguous as he walked up the steps only for the door to be opened for him.


    "Ricky!" Steve thought his eyes had decided him as he hugged him in relief.


    "You really gave us a scare back there, and the rumors they''ve been saying about you? It made us worried but it''s good you came back." Bucky patted Ricky''s shoulder as he gave them a smile.


    "I couldn''t leave you to rot in this dump." Ricky informed them as they laughed before Steve tapped his shoulder.


    "Come on-huh?" Steve misinterpreted the situation as he thought Ricky was coming back to live with them at the orphanage.


    "I''ve come to get you guys, I won''t leave the guys who had my back for the first nine years of my life."


    While Ricky couldn''t recall, it didn''t alter the fact that these two had been there for him through thick and thin.


    In his previous life, Ricky had zero friends due to burning bridges, and although he wasn''t eager to make new ones, they were already his friends, so he wouldn''t abandon them.


    "Ricky, those monsters are awful people, you don''t really want to live that life do you?" Steve asked in a surprised tone as the three wannabe mobsters behind Ricky scoffed.


    "Monster? You mean mobsters." Ricky corrected as if he heard wrong though Steve shook his head.


    "Those nights you couldn''t sleep were because those guys were terrorizing the streets of brooklyn-"


    "And when I was forcefully dragged from my room, who was it that came to my rescue?" Ricky backed away from Steve with a dumbfounded look.


    "It wasn''t the cops, it sure as hell wasn''t you, but instead those very mobsters." Ricky laughed in disbelief as Steve shook his head.


    "I fought for you-"


    "And you lost!" Ricky covered his face in disbelief as he couldn''t hold back the ironic laughter at Steve''s words.


    "You got your head bashed in and fell unconscious like you always do!" Ricky pointed at Steve as he frowned.


    "The heart is what counts." Steve patted his chest as Ricky shook his head while looking towards a regretful Bucky.


    "And you Bucky?" Ricky asked Bucky who let out a small sign.


    "I can''t leave Steve here alone, Ricky." Bucky confessed as Ricky nodded his head before turning around.


    "You need anything and I mean ANYTHING, come find me." Ricky waved goodbye to his past before walking towards a new future.


    "You''re Ricky Freeman, remember that!" Steve yelled as the three teenagers scoffed at this kid.


    "Not anymore." Ricky loudly said as he gestured for the three of them to follow him.


    "Ricky Freeman died the day he got hit in the head with that wooden plank." Ricky stopped at the last step before turning to see a betrayed Steve and giving him a small smirk.


    "I''m Ricky Luciano."

 Chapter 11: Five Years Info Dump

    Chapter 11: Five Years Info Dump


    September 1st 1932,


    "Slick, it''s never gonna happen." Edward scoffed with crossed arms while sitting in the back seat of the car.


    "He isn''t called Slick for nothing, a fiver says Slick pulls it off." Rocco held up five dollars as Jake chuckled.


    "I got ten on Slick." Jake held up a ten dollar bill as Edward shook his head and pulled out fifteen bucks.


    "Alright Slick, let''s see if you got what it takes to bag the original Doll, Dolly Henderson." Edward reached and slapped fifteen dollars onto the dash of the expensive Cadillac V-16.


    "Prepare to lose your money, Moose." Ricky smirked as he held up a bouquet of yellow flowers.


    Stepping out of the car, his teenage appearance flared as he had grown from a mere 4''5 to a solid 5'' 8 with room still to grow.


    Over the past five years, Ricky''s life intertwined deeply with the Underworld, as he became fully integrated into its operations.


    The Luciano Family, having profited immensely from Prohibition, expanded their wealth and diversified their revenue streams, delving into both legitimate and illicit activities.


    The illegal operations primarily involved the smuggling of rum and other alcoholic beverages.


    However, Lucky Luciano gradually extended their ventures to include drugs, loansharking, racketeering, and gun trafficking.


    On the surface, Lucky meticulously developed legal fronts that served as facades for their illicit activities, such as labor unions, which proved to be gold mines.


    Lucky dedicated countless hours and relentless effort to seize control of the unions, most notably the Teamsters.


    This strategic move granted him influence over the Manhattan waterfront, garbage hauling, construction, garment district businesses, and trucking, solidifying his grip on power and expanding his empire into both clean and dirty money territories.


    Lucky Luciano struck a deal with the original head of the union to "take care of" any competitors challenging the current president of the Teamsters union, securing a share of the union''s profits and establishing his first "legitimate" business venture.


    Cornelius Shea, the man working closely with Ricky''s adoptive father, was an undeniably cheerful figure.


    Ricky had met him numerous times, and Shea was always laughing or telling jokes to fuel his own mirth.


    With the Luciano family''s backing, the Teamsters not only elevated Shea''s influence in Brooklyn but also gained substantial leverage over the government.


    Luciano could effectively bribe any politician through the Teamsters, solidifying the family''s immense power.


    However, this influence in the underworld was not without its challenges as a brewing war loomed, ignited by the actions of Luciano''s mentor and self-proclaimed boss, Giuseppe "Joe the Boss" Masseria.


    Joe the Boss''s influence was monumental, akin to the tip of a titanic iceberg as his mere gesture could part the underworld of New York like the Red Sea.


    Yet, there was a problem which always seemed to loom over powerful figures, his ego.


    Joe the Boss wasn''t content with merely his nickname; he aspired to become the boss of all bosses, seeking to bring all the mafias under his control.


    This ambition created many enemies, and Lucky found himself burdened with the fallout, quelling countless groups like the Mustache Petes and the Young Turks.


    The constant turf wars were exhausting, and all Lucky wanted was to return to his business ventures.


    Amidst this chaos, another gangster seized the opportunity to make a name for himself and solidify his reputation throughout New York.


    Salvatore Maranzano.


    The escalating turf war led many to rally under the banner of Salvatore Maranzano, a man with a different vision.


    Instead of consolidating the families under a single leader, Maranzano aimed to have the families collectively control the underworld.


    This approach appealed to those dissatisfied with Joe the Boss, and they began to join Maranzano''s ranks to challenge Joe''s dominance.


    As time passed, Lucky observed Joe the Boss''s influence waning and recognizing the need to stabilize the situation and maintain his own power, Lucky decided to bring an end to the war once and for all.


    Seeing an opportunity to switch allegiances, Lucky Luciano struck a secret deal with Salvatore Maranzano.


    In exchange for orchestrating Giuseppe ``Joe the Boss'' '' Masseria''s death, Luciano would receive Masseria''s rackets and become Maranzano''s second-in-command.


    Joe Adonis, initially part of the Masseria faction, alerted Luciano about Masseria''s suspicions and murder plot against him.


    On a fateful day at Nuova Villa Tammaro, a Coney Island restaurant, while playing cards, Luciano excused himself to the bathroom.


    During his absence, the gunmen allegedly Anastasia, Meyer, Adonis, and Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel executed Masseria.


    Ciro "The Artichoke King" Terranova, supposed to drive the getaway car, was reportedly too shaken to do so, and Siegel had to take over.


    With Maranzano''s blessing, Luciano took over Masseria''s gang, ending the Castellammarese War and becoming Maranzano''s lieutenant.


    With Masseria out of the picture, Maranzano reorganized the Italian American gangs in New York City into the Five Families, appointing Luciano, Profaci, Gagliano, Mangano, and himself as heads.


    Declaring himself ''capo di tutti i capi'' ("boss of all bosses") at a meeting of crime bosses in Wappingers Falls, Maranzano began to favor his own rackets over those of his rivals.


    Although Luciano appeared to accept these changes, he was merely biding his time as he had come to believe Maranzano to be even more greedy and inflexible than Masseria.


    By September 1931, Maranzano saw Luciano as a threat and hired Vincent "Mad Dog" Coll to eliminate him.


    However, Lucchese alerted Luciano that he was marked for death.


    On September 10, Maranzano summoned Luciano, Meyer Lansky, and Frank Costello to his office at 230 Park Avenue.


    Convinced of an imminent ambush, Luciano acted first. He sent four Jewish gangsters, whose faces were unknown to Maranzano''s men, into the office.


    Disguised as government agents, they disarmed Maranzano''s bodyguards. Aided by Lucchese, who identified Maranzano, they stabbed and shot the boss, marking the beginning of the fabled "Night of the Sicilian Vespers."


    Following Maranzano''s assassination, Luciano called a meeting in Chicago. Rather than declaring himself capo di tutti i capi, he abolished the title, recognizing it as a source of conflict and a potential target on his back.


    His goal was to quietly maintain power and prevent future gang wars. The Commission, consisting of a "board of directors'''' to oversee all Mafia activities in the United States and mediate family conflicts, was formed.


    The Commission included the leaders of New York''s Five Families Charlie "Lucky" Luciano, Vincent Mangano, Tommy Gagliano, Joseph Bonanno, and Joe Profaci alongside Chicago Outfit boss Al Capone and Buffalo family boss Stefano Magaddino.


    Luciano was appointed chairman, with the agreement to hold meetings every five years or as needed to address family issues.


    With the Luciano Gang beckoning into the Luciano family, the organization expanded with it.


    Lucky wanted to make Meyer his underboss however his skills in bookkeeping were so notorious that he became the official bookkeeper for the entire commission and would be the main speaker when any boss wanted to invest in a venture.


    So after a hard decision, Lucky made Genovese his underboss while giving him all the duties of being second in command.


    Although Frank was one of Lucky''s most trusted men and a high member in the organization, he had to put him as a Consigliere due to the frustration of the other mafia bosses.


    Frank Costello wasn''t from Silicy but Caliban; however, although it was only a region difference, for the mafia it was enough for him not to be trusted.


    In fact, the way Lucky and Frank became partners was because Frank had been struggling since not a single gangster trusted him due to him being a ''Dirty Calabrian''.


    Lucky was the only one to give Frank a chance and when he did, Frank became eternally loyal to him while rising up the ranks of the gang.


    Now, Ricky found himself in a completely different tax bracket as once the bloodbath that had occurred the previous year elevated the Luciano family to new heights.


    Splitting New York among themselves proved immensely profitable, netting millions in revenue.


    The local gangs, recognizing the Luciano family''s power, paid their tributes or faced the cessation of their operations.


    Throughout this turbulent period, Lucky kept Ricky by his side, teaching him every step of the way.


    Initially, Ricky struggled.


    It was inevitable, Ricky had literally never even had a job in his previous life which made literally any form of commitment a struggle.


    He wasn''t good at management, administration, delegating, and by far was a horrible shot.


    So when Lucky was trying to implement a leading role in the family it was far more challenging than he had anticipated.


    However, with Lucky''s immense patience and guidance, Ricky gradually developed into a solid leader who wouldn''t crack under a desperate situation.


    Despite his persistent faults, particularly his drinking, Lucky was proud of Ricky''s growth. Ricky even earned a new nickname to go along with "Slick," reflecting his rising status within the underworld while constantly calling him a ''Royal Thug''.


    Initially, it was a taunt devised by Jake, Rocco, and Arturo, but Ricky embraced it, liking how it rolled off the tongue.


    After the formation of the Five Families, Ricky began truly living his life, no longer confined to the mansion as he had been for the past five years.


    ''Status.''


    [Status]


    Name: Ricky Freeman


    Titles: Deadbeat, Royal Thug


    Age: 14


    Race: Human


    Strength: 13 (Average adult male)


    Stamina: 17 (Above average adult male)


    Vitality: 16 (Above average adult male)


    Agility: 14 (Average adult male)


    Dexterity: 19 (Above average adult male)


    Intelligence: 6 (You''ve grown but that doesn''t mean you''re not an Idiot)


    Charm: 25 (Your charm is extremely high for your age)


    Appearance: 21 (The baby fat has melted with age and with it has surfaced your golden jawline, use it well.)


    Skills:


    Psionic Force Fields: While the cells of the user''s body produce a certain energy manifestation, the cells of his brain produce a different, more potent manifestation. Through concentration, Ricky is able to project an invisible field of psionic force drawn from Ricky''s own mind. He can shape these fields into various forms, limited only by his imagination and mental focus, ranging from small objects like marbles to large domes with a diameter of about 100 feet. These force fields can be solid or hollow, and he can manipulate their size, shape, and movement at will. Ricky can use these fields to travel in the air, reaching speeds of about 25 miles per hour for up to 4 hours before becoming fatigued. His force fields are also capable of blocking telekinesis and preventing mental intrusion, making him highly versatile in combat situations.


    Full Counter: The ability to counter any non physical attack at its original user with twice the power


    Conditions:


    The user must have a conduit or weapon to reflect an attackThe user must be able to react to or swing towards an attack with the proper timing in order to reflect the attackThere must be an attack to reflect.


    IP Skills:


    Apex Fertility: The user''s seed will be amongst the peak in the universe and incredibly fertile as your seed can even rejuvenate the womb of a woman who cannot even give birth. All it takes is one load to impregnate any woman in an instant.


    Titles:


    Deadbeat: You have increased odds to flee from the responsibilities of a child and run out like a scumbag.


    Royal Thug: You aren''t just born into the thug life but are born into the nobility of the thug life


    Effect: A ingrained respect is giving to you by all gangster, mobsters, and thugs


    Ricky had also begun to master his abilities, and his notoriety spread not only through the underworld but across New York as well.


    Although with the heavy stigma, he didn''t bother to hide his powers, finding it too tedious.


    Initially, Lucky was heavily opposed to this, but after witnessing Ricky''s strength firsthand, he agreed to let it be.


    With the help of a few well-placed whispers, Lucky spread positive rumors about Ricky, ensuring he was at the forefront of them all and controlling the passage of the whispers.


    Over the past five years, Ricky hadn''t fully utilized his system, but now it was ready.


    His dragon had finally awakened from its long slumber, returning to its former size and strength.


    This resurgence made Ricky hopeful for even greater growth, as every man desires a bigger member.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    Ricky knocked on the door of the woman he had met years ago, the one he had been protecting ever since he gained the power to do so.


    No assistance from his father was needed; no man dared to approach her, knowing it might incur the wrath of the Luciano family.


    Ricky had been biding his time, his eyes set on the mission that had haunted him for the past five years.


    Power hadn''t initially attracted him, but after experiencing the capabilities of his system, he couldn''t resist any longer.


    He succumbed to its allure, finding the requirements a pleasurable bonus. Ricky now sought not only to grow stronger but to relish the efforts of gaining more power, enjoying the journey as much as the destination.


    "Ricky?"

 Chapter 12: Rizzinator, Rizzatron, the Rizzler

    Chapter 12: Rizzinator, Rizzatron, the Rizzler


    "Oh my goodness, look how much you''ve grown!" Dolly covered her face in amazement as she looked up at the man who had once barely reached her stomach, now towering over her by three inches.


    "How long has it been?" Ricky asked while opening his arms as Dolly rolled her eyes with a smile before hugging the kid she treated long ago.


    Dolly had remembered Ricky since he had visited her every now and then, though it suddenly stopped after the recent mob war raged onwards.


    "Here, I was in the store and I thought of you." Ricky pulled the yellow flowers into Dolly''s view as she was a little surprised.


    "Yellow daisies, my favorite." Dolly grabbed the flowers which were gently handed to her as she smiled while taking in the aroma.


    "He''s not making it past the door." Edward shook his head as a bead of sweat ran down his face.


    "No she''s a good doll, she''ll be polite and invite him in." Jake guessed as Dolly looked up from her flowers.


    "I know you never stay but would you like a cup of tea? I just brewed a pot." Dolly asked with an innocent smile, though knew Ricky never stayed for long.


    Ricky faked a hesitating look before giving Dolly a gentle smile.


    "How did I ever say no to you?" Ricky asked with a calm expression as Dolly immediately slapped his shoulder with a slight chuckle, seeing his wide smile.


    "Oh my goodness Ricky, you turned into such a flirt." Dolly made way as Ricky walked into the house though still looked at Dolly.


    "Not always but you always seem to bring it out of me whether it''s from when I was young to now, you''re as beautiful as ever." Ricky spoke poetically, and though Dolly shook her head, she wore a bright smile since after all, everyone enjoys a compliment now and then.


    "No way!" Edward grabbed his forehead in distress as he saw Dolly closing the door behind him.


    "Alright he got-"


    *Smack*


    "Wait." Edward put his hand over the money on the dash while Jake raised an eyebrow.


    "You do know that he''s been practicing on the college girls for this exact moment Edward, we all saw how weak those chicks got over one conversation, he''s gonna bag Dolly." Jake raised an eyebrow since they all should know what Ricky was capable of.


    Although he hadn''t slept with those girls, at least yet, he had been going to the local colleges and returning back to his usual charming self while using the college girls as guinea pigs, refining his skills.


    Ricky had even been a wingman for all of them and had successfully helped Edward and Rocco lose their V-cards yet Jake was shocked Edward still doubted him.


    Although Ricky didn''t originally want to be their friend, he warmed up to them after a while before eventually he himself considered them his friends.


    "This is different she''s a widow-"


    "It doesn''t matter." Rocco laughed out, crossing his eyes while gazing at the window.


    "Ricky''s gonna bag that brode."


    Walking in, Ricky surveyed the clean house while seeing the multiple pictures of her with Sammy, her deceased husband.


    ''And it begins.'' Ricky thought while watching Dolly place the flowers in the vase.


    "He was a good man, Sammy I mean." Ricky suddenly said as Dolly flinched before showing a sad look.


    "H-He really was." Dolly smiled, placing the flowers in the vase before putting it over the sink to fill it with water.


    "I can only imagine what you had to go through, Dolly." Ricky set the picture down before starting to walk towards the kitchen.


    "I-It-.......It was tough at times, but I had a lot of friends to help me through it." Dolly''s smile formed into a sad one as Ricky leaned next to her.


    "So how has the dating circle been for you, I bet you get guys lining up all the way to the highway to get a chance to even look at you." Ricky flashed a cheeky smile, prompting Dolly to roll her eyes though her sad smile faded into a genuine one.


    "They most certainly do not, in fact, I haven''t been on a date in five years." Dolly confessed while intently gazing at the flowers to make sure there was enough water as she had completely missed Ricky''s carnivorous smile which faded in a second.


    "You''re kidding?" Ricky showed a baffled expression as Dolly let out a sigh.


    "Unfortunately, I''m not." Dolly forced a smile while trying to hide the crippling loneliness she felt.


    Despite having wonderful friends to lean on, they were also building their own lives, which included starting families of their own.


    Slowly but surely, Dolly found herself being left behind on the road of life.


    Watching as each of her friends drove off into their own sunsets, while she was left waiting on the side of the road, feeling somewhat misplaced.


    Dolly had unknowingly secluded herself from the outside world as the one who brought out the sunshine in her was now currently six feet under.


    "Hey." Ricky grabbed Dolly''s arm gently as she stopped and looked up to see a worried expression.


    "Are you okay?" Ricky asked in a soothing tone which shook her to the very core.


    When was the last time someone had really taken the time to not simply comfort her, but ask her if she was really okay.


    "I-I''m fine-"


    "No you''re not." Ricky shook his head while taking the flower vase out of her hands and setting it down before grabbing her hand.


    Gripping it tightly, Ricky led Dolly to the nearby coach before guiding her right next to him as she avoided his eyes.


    "Dolly, I know that you''ve been alone but I''m here now, you can tell me anything and I promise I won''t ever tell a soul." Ricky then placed his other hand to rest on her delicate shoulder as she looked down.


    *Sniff*


    "I-I just don''t understand why they look at me like that." Dolly confessed as tears started to well up in her eyes.


    "How do they look at you?" Ricky asked gently and Dolly bit her lip before closing her eyes.


    "They say things, things like how Sammy took underhanded bribes." Dolly confessed as Ricky looked shocked.


    "No~"


    "Yes!" Dolly looked up at the seemingly shocked Ricky who faked a disbelieving expression, already knowing that Lucky himself popped one in Sammy''s head.


    "Your Sammy."


    "My Sammy!"


    "Sammy Henderson?"


    "Yes!"


    Dolly started to cry as Ricky carefully swept them away from her cheek as she looked thankful.


    *Sniff*


    "You''re the only guy who hasn''t run away when I''ve confessed this." Dolly laughed sadly while wiping away the tears as Ricky reluctantly let go of her other hand so she could easily wipe away.


    "Dolly, I am so sorry for what you''ve had to go through." Ricky showed a warm smile as it seemed to warm up her cold heart.


    "You are so sweet Ricky." Dolly smiled as a silence suddenly loomed over them.


    Then, in a sudden and unexpected move, Ricky leaned his body towards Dolly.


    She felt a jolt of surprise shoot through her as she seemingly froze, her ocean blue eyes locked onto his light green ones.


    At that moment, she wanted to turn away, to break the intensity of their gaze but Ricky''s warm smile and kindness seemed to envelop her entire being, making it impossible for her to look away.


    Instinctively, she closed her eyes, feeling a mixture of emotions swirling within her.


    There was a sense of vulnerability, of being exposed to something she had long kept guarded.


    Yet, there was also a feeling of comfort, of being understood and accepted in a way she had never experienced before.


    "When was this taken?" Ricky deliberately avoided her lips and instead reached past her, aiming for the picture behind her.


    This was Ricky''s usual tactic for gauging a woman''s interest as he would conveniently place himself near an interesting object, then subtly reach for it while memorizing its details.


    Afterward, he would say some nice words to loosen her up before testing the waters. However, unless the woman leaned in, he knew they weren''t ready.


    Sometimes, when they froze, it simply meant they were surprised and not necessarily uninterested.


    However, in this case, he could see that Dolly was somewhat forcing herself to warm up, which wasn''t a good sign.


    Interactions like this often led to the woman abruptly stopping their intimate interactions halfway, a frustrating experience that had left Ricky feeling blue balled many times before.


    "T-That was me when I graduated in high school." Dolly was flushed in embarrassment though Ricky purposely focused wholly on the picture so that Dolly wouldn''t leave in embarrassment, giving her time to calm down.


    Embrassent and one''s own self conscience was, at least to Ricky, what he found to get a girl in the right mood in any situation.


    At first they would contemplate why they reacted the way they did.


    ''I can''t believe I thought he was going to kiss me!''


    Then they would try to reason with themselves to try to justify their actions.


    ''I-I mean, was it wrong for me to assume the way he did? All he does is flirt with me and lean in?''


    Then they question themselves.


    ''Wait was he flirting with me or just being nice?''


    Then they would try to reason with themselves again.


    ''Dolly he is fourteen and you are twenty seven, he is out of reach.''


    Then that final thought that turns the table into his favor.


    ''However, he doesn''t look fourteen.''


    All these thoughts raced through Dolly''s mind as she began to truly see Ricky for the man he had become, rather than the child she once knew.


    She noticed the muscles that now defined his body, his height that grew over her, and that jawline that seemed to chisel away at her very gaze.


    "What were you thinking when this picture was taken of you?" Ricky asked thoughtfully as his smile widened at her reddened face.


    "I wasn''t, my dad just took it." Dolly said what was at the top of her head and Ricky started to laugh as if he had misinterpreted it as a joke.


    "You know, you''re a really great gal Dolly." Riky started to use his time periods lingo as Dolly showed him a heartfelt smile.


    "Thank you Ricky." Dolly thanked him as Ricky let out a sigh which made her woman''s senses tingle.


    ''Take the bait-''


    "Ricky? Are you okay?" Dolly asked Ricky but with a sad smile while nodding.


    "I''m fine-"


    "Ricky." Dolly scrunched her eyebrows with a clear frown as Ricky let out a small laugh.


    "You really are one of a kind." RIcky didn''t forget to slip in a compliment as he had reached the second phase of his plan.


    Letting her into his ''space''.


    Instead of making a move, Ricky wanted Dolly to not only think of him as a trusted person but to genuinely feel that way too.


    He believed that forging a bond through shared heartache was often stronger and more enduring than one formed through compassion alone.


    "It''s just-....." Ricky grabbed the picture tightly as Dolly couldn''t help it and scooted over to place a hand on his shoulder.


    "Ricky, you can tell me anything and I promise I won''t ever tell a soul." Dolly rebranded his own word as Ricky let out a small chuckle.


    "It''s just sometimes I feel so suffocated and alone." Ricky confessed with a bold face lie, trying to relate to Dolly''s troubles as much as possible.


    "How so?" Dolly asked as Ricky sighed before caressing her highschool photo with his thumb.


    "My father just expects so much of me along with everyone else and at first it was nice until, until I felt isolated." Ricky confessed with a disheartened smile while Dolly showed a sad look while rubbing Ricky''s back in comfort.


    "My father is the leader of a company, and he''s great, but sometimes it makes it hard to find what''s real in a person, you know?" Ricky turned to Dolly, their faces only inches away from each other as their breaths seemingly intertwined with each other.


    "In a way Ricky, I think I do." Dolly nodded in understanding as Ricky set the picture on the table.


    "I feel like this is real." Ricky confessed as Dolly showed an appreciative smile as Ricky once again went face to face with her.


    "Me too." Dolly showed a warm smile as she stared in his eyes until she started to feel slightly lost.


    It had been too long since she felt this kind of connection with a man, and it was slowly stirring up all the deep-seated feelings she had been holding back for years.


    ''Now.''


    Ricky didn''t want to waste any more time, but he also didn''t rush the process as he gently brought his hand to Dolly''s cheek, and instead of freezing or pulling away, she nestled her face into his palm, closing her eyes at the warmth of his touch.


    Ricky placed his thumb on her luscious red lips, slowly rubbing it in a counterclockwise manner before gently pulling her forward.


    He didn''t need to pull for long; she willingly leaned in, meeting him halfway.


    Their lips met, and as they did, Dolly felt Ricky''s tongue gently slither against hers before slowly wrapping around it in an intimate embrace.


    Their lips intertwined, and their tongues danced to the tune of passion.


    Ricky''s eager hand didn''t stay idle on her cheek but slowly traced down her curvaceous body, finally resting on her lower back. The sensation sent shivers through Dolly, intensifying the connection they were building.


    Pulling her up, Ricky kept their kiss while passionately keeping Dolly in a lip lock embrace as she started to slowly get lost.


    Then, Ricky suddenly broke the kiss. Dolly opened her eyes, her heart pounding with a newfound intensity.


    A feeling of longing washed over her, enveloping her entire being while her lips still tingled from the passionate embrace, and she could feel her pulse quicken in anticipation.


    Ricky''s gaze held hers, a mixture of desire and tenderness in his light green eyes. The air between them seemed to crackle with unspoken words and shared emotions, leaving Dolly yearning for the moment to continue, her heart aching for more.


    "Ricky~"

 Chapter 13: Can’t Go Wrong With A Busty Blond (R18)

    Chapter 13: Can¡¯t Go Wrong With A Busty Blond (R18)


    Author''s Note: I won''t do part 2 or part 3''s cause it just ruins the mood.


    [Dolly Henderson]


    "Ricky?" Dolly called out, opening her eyes slowly as her fuzzy vision slowly started to clear up from closing her eyes only moments ago.


    The scenery cleared up into the place where she spent her days caressed in a lonely sleep, her bedroom.


    A red tinted blush suddenly flushed her already rosy cheeks after seeing Ricky lay her down on the bed before slowly taking off his shirt, her eyes immediately scanned his lean build as her eyes unconsciously trailed down to his still worn pants.


    Ricky''s eyes formed into crescent moons as he let out a soft chuckle at her unconscious gaze as Dolly looked up at him in embarrassment before covering her face.


    "Dolly~" Ricky whispered out in a coo though Dolly was stubborn from the horrid embarrassment she had put on display moments ago as her body suddenly tingled.


    Skin bumps slowly appeared on her long slender legs as Ricky slowly traced his hand all across it, he continued to call out her name until she finally peaked from the cracks of her hands only to see Ricky''s warm smile.


    Frozen from it, Ricky reacted first while taking her hands off of her face while caressing her cheek as she looked up at him once more.


    Then without a moment''s notice, Ricky''s hands slowly started dismantling the walls that protected the sanctity of her coveted body.


    Dolly didn''t stop Ricky and kept eye contact as their breaths started to become more and more in sync with every clothing dripped down from her being.


    It only felt like a second had passed but Dolly had been completely unraveled from all of her bindings as her body laid fully revealed to Ricky.


    Ricky''s eyes greedily scanned over Dolly as those clothes didn''t do her body any justice and in fact hid all the right places, taking in the wonderful sight of this naked beauty before him.


    Starting with her smooth slender legs that anxiously twirled around each other which caused her ample thighs to rub against each other like matchsticks.


    They complemented her curvaceous child rearing hips which connected to her thin smooth stomach, his hands couldn''t help but stream across it until his hands unknowingly trickled upwards to her chest.


    Dolly turned her face at Ricky''s penetrating gaze, feeling him start to caress her before making his way to her breasts which were now slowly being toyed with at his discretion.


    ''Perky and although not big, gently fit into my hand as if it was a missing puzzle piece to my grip.'' Ricky commented as if becoming a connoisseur in the arts of grouping before his interests lay once again at legs.


    Honing in on her thighs once more, he couldn''t stop himself any longer as his fingers had gripped the edges before slowly prying them open to reveal his prize which he had practiced all those cheesy one liners on trailer park trash so long for.


    Two pink lips pressed against each other as a blond field that hadn''t been trimmed in a week or two, started to grow above a beautiful ripe pink glaze that made up Dolly''s pussy.


    "R-Ricky, please~" Dolly hummed out in embarrassment, gazing down to see Ricky''s piercing stare lead to her private regions.


    "If you say so." Ricky purposely mistook her words, smiling at the innocence that would soon be corrupted by the entirety of his being before he lowered himself.


    Pushing her thighs farther apart, he then nestled his face right before her second pair of lips before starting to kiss the edges lightly as he made his way upwards.


    ''Oh how I missed this'' Ricky sighed in relief, his small kisses shaking the very core of Dolly''s being as his lips made their way closer to her clitours while his fingers started to act on their own.


    "Ha~" Dolly breath hastened in a mere second, feeling the sudden colliding force of Ricky''s kisses finally making a connection with her clitorus before his fingers nestled into the folds of her inner being.


    "I-oh my~" Dolly wanted to say something, positioning herself upwards a little until a sudden shock of pleasure hit against her being, which seemingly forced Dolly to drop back on her back.


    Ricky''s eyes sharply gazed at Dolly''s somewhat loose defiant stand as in the next second, his movements pivoted.


    Not wanting another act like that to interrupt his flow, he moved his fingers that had been previously taunting her to grip all around the outsides of his thighs before his mouth started to drip downwards.


    Positioned right at the starting point once more, he didn''t waste a single moment as his tongue started to wedge itself into the tight opening of Dolly''s being.


    "Ah~" Immediately Dolly felt a ripple of pleasure once again hit her being as she let out a single sensual moan.


    "Ricky, wait it''s dirty-Ah~" Dolly tried to convince him otherwise, but Ricky ignored her and continued slipping his slimy into her innermost sanctum which stopped her sentence short once more.


    Shivers continued to pulsate around her silhouette as Ricky sought to lather her pussy in his slimy saliva while his tongue scavenged throughout the cave before he struck gold.


    A foreign substance started to slowly soak Dolly''s insides as her walls started to rev up while the initial stages consisted of slight squirming and her moans slowly becoming heavier.


    Then without warning, Ricky moved his tongue out and before Dolly could even let out a thought of protest, he moved it right above her clit to tease it softly before sticking his middle finger into her now slightly wet pussy.


    "AH~" Dolly let out a louder moan, feeling his fingers intrusion before the coming taunts as it started to caress her ceiling.


    Teasing her clit softly, his finger started to move a little more aggressively as he sought to stimulate her even more while swirling all around as if looking for something.


    "HA~" Dolly let out a breathless moan, her lungs evacuating under the rippling force that swung across her figure as Ricky smiled after his finger had finally found its desired spot.


    Ricky''s fingers didn''t hesitate for even a second longer as they started to ramp up its movements, caressing her delicate spot in a faster intensity as Dolly''s chest compressed up and down rapidly.


    "I''m gonna"


    "I''m gonna-AH~" Dolly couldn''t finish her sentence, stuttering it out for a second time until a full wave of unbridled pleasure rushed both in and out of her.


    Biting her lip, Dolly''s eyes twitched upwards after finally registering this feeling of an organism as she unconsciously.


    Seeing that strangle hold of pleasure take hold of Dolly, Ricky stood up while licking his fingers as some pussy dripped all alongside it.


    "So refreshing~" Ricky licked his lips with a slight chuckle, hovering over Dolly''s vigorously panting body while enjoying her perky breasts swaying so easily from it.


    "!" Dolly''s tired eyes gained clarity before widened upon seeing Ricky start to unbuckle his jeans before pulling them down.


    For so long, Dolly had been alone in this empty house, sleeping in her empty bed, and seeking solace in fleeting moments of hollow pleasure.


    However, for the first time in years, her cheeks blushed with excitement and wonder at the sight before her.


    Her pupils seemingly bounced with the unraveling of his cock as they locked onto its intimidating figure as Dolly unconsciously gulped.


    Ricky didn''t let her get psyched out since he had actually been turned down from his size once or twice before and slowly lined it up at the entrance of Dolly''s pussy before he submerged the tip.


    "Ha~" Dolly let out a moan once more, placing a hand on Ricky''s chest as he started leaning downward while letting gravity take him completely inside Dolly.


    "Your too-Ah, AH~" Dolly wanted to comment once more only to have Ricky slide himself even further into Dolly''s being.


    Gazing downwards, her hand was being pushed backwards, though her eyes were seemingly in a trace as she watched Ricky''s cock descend into her being.


    Stretching to accommodate his size, Dolly watched with gritted teeth as her pussy slowly swallowed him whole which made Ricky raise a smile.


    "AH~" Dolly let out an aggressive moan mixed with pain, watching as Ricky rammed the rest of his length into her warm and wet insides.


    A slight clapping sound rippled throughout the room as his waist slapping against her thighs, slight vibrations ringing out through her being after taking him whole.


    "There we go~" Ricky hummed out in relief, reveling in the warm feeling that strangled his cock before gazing down.


    Trembling from the shock, Dolly slightly writhed under him at this new sensation of being filled to the absolute brim, gazing down to see the slight bulge on her stomach that made her breathless before she twitched at the aftermath of his aggressive movement.


    "I-It hurts~" Dolly whined out, pushing against his chest but it only made him lean in farther while wiping the edges of her eyes.


    "Shhhh, it''s okay." Ricky leaned over her being, causing Dolly to instinctively fall back until she was completely sprawled out before him.


    Dolly tried to pull herself together, her breath hitching as she attempted to acclimate to the overwhelming sensation.


    The sharp edge of pain mingled with pleasure as her body struggled to adjust, feeling her insides slowly stretch to accommodate his size.


    Each inch of his larger girth and length pressed deeper, pushing her to her limits, the sensation tearing at her in the most exquisite way.


    Ricky kissed her cheek tenderly, relishing in the warmth and constant twitching that surrounded his cock with a steel tight grip.


    They held each other for a while until Dolly''s shaking slowly subsided, petting her head gently until he slowly started to move his hips.


    Swaying them gently back and forth, he mimicked the morning tide while Dolly''s body rocked alongside him to create a perfect harmony.


    Dolly buried her face in the crevasse of his neck, wrapping her limbs around his body while slowly taking him with all her stride.


    However, even when she tried to tuck herself away, Ricky never ceased in his efforts to kiss her passionately.


    Trickling her neck with small kisses, he put in the effort to form this budding connection in hopes it would eventually blossom into their shared pleasure.


    Feeling Ricky push deeper inside her being, Dolly slowly started getting accustomed due to her previous experience and started to loosened up.


    "Ha~" Dolly let out a gentle moan, finally feeling the pleasure from all the pain that had wholly wrapped her since his insertion.


    They were cute and shallow, muffled partly by her face being buried into Ricky''s neck but that didn''t make it any less seductive.


    "A-Ah~"


    "H-Ha~"


    "Mmmmmm~"


    Each moan was different yet they all conveyed a singular feeling, trickling out steady and more boldly as she started to feel herself loosen up completely.


    Mirroring the excitement slowly building up within her voice, her pussy slowly started spilling out its own form of excitement which sought to fully lubricate itself under Ricky''s hold.


    Grabbed her head, Ricky felt the tightness coil around him, his desire for more almost causing him to go berserk at times but held himself grounded.


    "Ah~"


    "AH~"


    As the pain completely subsided, waves of lingering pleasure suddenly surged through Dolly, shocking her into submission as her eyes glazed over.


    Dolly slowly started to lose herself, her body numbing from the rampant pleasure coursing through her body.


    Falling against the bed, Dolly loosened her grip onto Ricky and once she did, their lips immediately collided.


    Ricky took Dolly into a slow but intense kiss, his tongue shamelessly intruding into her mouth before it swarmed around her own.


    ''Calm down, calm down.'' Ricky continued to tell himself, not wanting to break Dolly since it would be too much of a waste yet everything she did seemed to turn him on.


    Realizing that kissing her any longer would make him snap, Ricky slowly trailed himself into the crevasse of her neck.


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    However, that only made Dolly squeal out cute and innocent moans while her hands reached back to grip the sheets above her.


    Slowly pushed back and forth, her eyes gazed up to see Ricky, not continuously covering her with light and gentle kisses but staring at her entire being.


    Watching with intent eyes, he observed her as her arms clung to the sheets above her, her knuckles white with the effort.


    Her luscious red lips were slightly parted, and she bit down gently, a delicate sign of her struggle to control the overwhelming pleasure.


    Each soft nibble on her full lower lip was a silent testament to the intensity of their connection, her gaze locked onto him with a mixture of desperation and desire.


    Dolly''s breasts swayed with the movements of her body, perfectly in rhythm with his gentle strokes in a circular manner that was different from the other.


    Suddenly, a small yet passionate moan escaped her lips, her body tensing with the intensity of the sensation.


    She felt him abruptly halt his movements, the sudden stillness causing her to open her eyes wide.


    The moment she met his gaze, she was struck by the overwhelming intensity of his stare.


    Instead of looking away in embarrassment, she looked up and gave him a cute little smile, her slightly bitten lip lifting in a way that was both innocent and enticing.


    Then, as if the timing couldn''t have been more perfect, the sunset outside bathed her beautiful, naked body in an ethereal glow, as though she were an angel illuminated by the fading light.


    It was as if Dolly knew that she had fallen into the hands of the devil but instead of wallowing, accepted her fate with a forgiving smile.


    Reason shattered within Ricky in that moment, his hands slowly tracing up her arms until his right hand locked against not only one of her hands, but both seemingly pinning her down.


    "Dolly, I can''t your just to f*cking sexy." Ricky whispered, his head slowly resting in the crevasse of her neck while planting kisses, his hands pushed against Dolly''s with a little more force to completely pin her down in place.


    "Ricky?" Dolly asked out in confusion, not understanding the meaning behind his words until her face twitched.


    Without any hesitation, Ricky pulled his hips back as all the ground his cock gained was seemingly lost until he suddenly halted his movement.


    *CLAP*


    "AH~" Dolly''s eyes watered, lips twitching, and her moan sharp while feeling Ricky slam his cock right where he left off except this time covering a little more ground.


    Dolly''s legs suddenly sprawled in different directions, shaking madly at this newfound intensity as her toes curled.


    Dolly''s insides immediately clasped down on Ricky''s cock instinctively, the veins in Ricky''s neck bulging making him lose his mind even more at the sudden tightness, only invigorating him more.


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    That one time thrust slowly started to become a steady movements as Dolly fired out one intense moans after another.


    Her pitch reached new heights at the stimulation constantly coursing through her body with every thrust under Ricky''s newfound pace.


    This tempo and force were completely different from what Dolly had ever felt before, her pussy being ravaged in an overwhelming intensity that should entice pain, yet started to bear fruits of pleasure within her body.


    Due to the sudden strain of Ricky''s cock, a liquid, thicker than water, started to stream out of her insides.


    However instead of a one time thing, Dolly entire body was sent into a spiral as everytime Ricky slammed his hips into her waist, she sprayed out a helping of her nectar.


    "AHHHHH~" Dolly screeched out a moan, her body convulsing in intense ripples of pleasure signaling a climax but instead of stopping, Rick continued to pound his cock deeper into her pussy.


    Ricky waist was doused in her liquids yet his eyes had seemingly lost all reason, desiring to only get a little deeper whenever he slammed his throbbing cock inside her continuously squiritng insides.


    Dolly''s pussy, caught in the throes of relentless pleasure, seemed to transform into a fountain of desire, squirting with each powerful thrust from Ricky.


    "AHHHHHHH!" Dolly had seemingly lost her mind, her brain shutting off while everything seemed to become a haze.


    Screams of intoxication rippled throughout the room, coupling with the raw pleasure that harmonized with the wet, rhythmic sounds of her pussy squishing at every deep dive from Ricky''s cock.


    The air was suddenly thickened in an instant with the scent of their invigorated mingled arousal, an intoxicating musk that heightened their connection.


    Before, she had been writhing beneath him with subtle pleasure, but now her body responded to every forceful thrust with an intense shiver of forced ecstasy


    In that moment, the lonely pit in her heart that had been void of any love was being wholly filled with momentary pleasure.


    From then on Dolly had completely lost herself to Ricky, surrendering as she closed both eyes while boldly rocking up and down against his own aggressive thrusts as if giving into the fate of this moment.


    ''F*cking hormones.'' Ricky thought, having the front row seat to Dolly sensually rocking herself below him.


    Unconsciously slamming the entire length of his cock into her with the full force of his strength, making Dolly''s eyes shoot wide open and ripple in a frenzy.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH~" Dolly suddenly screamed out, feeling him penetrate even further into the depths of her being she thought impossible as she was forcefully pried open by this newfound feeling that caused her insides to twitch madly.


    Ricky let go of her hands at this moment, positioning both hands below her thigh meat and suddenly gripping them tightly before pushing them forward.


    Dolly''s legs were raised to either side of her moaning head, pressed down onto her while giving Ricky free range to exhibit himself completely into her being without anything holding him back.


    *CLAP*


    Ricky gritted his teeth, the muscles in his jaw flexing as he rammed himself into Dolly with his full force.


    The bed shook beneath them, a creak seeping out that matched the powerful cadence of his thrusts.


    He could feel the slick heat of her insides enveloping him, welcoming him, the tight grip of her inner walls pulling him deeper with each plunge.


    "HA~" Dolly moaned out fiercely once again, feeling Ricky''s overwhelming length plunged into depths she never thought possible by a man.


    Ricky''s pace hastened into a vigorous intensity, losing himself in the warm caress of Dolly''s body as he drove into her with increasing fervor.


    Dolly''s wet panting slowly evolved into a symphony of gasps and moans with every thrust elicited from her lips, each one driving him wilder.


    His hands gripped her thighs tighter, pulling her closer as desired to only bury himself deeper into the mind boggling feeling that sought to envelop him whole.


    Dolly''s body unconsciously responded to Ricky''s every movement, her back arching, and hips rising to meet his thrusts.


    "I-HA~" Dolly wanted to say something only for her words to be interrupted by her own seductive moans.


    "Ricky~" Dolly moaned out, her eyes teary while gazing up at Ricky devouring her entire being..


    Instead of replying to her sensual tone, Ricky leaned his lips into hers, matching the pace in which he rammed his cock into her lower lips.


    Their bodies were melting into each other, their pleasure sharing in an overwhelming tidal wave that was threatening to consume her completely.


    Dolly''s hands clutched at the sheets around her, knuckling white from the intensity of her grip, as she surrendered herself to the sensations coursing through her.


    "R-R-Ricky, I-I can''t-" Dolly gasped out once Ricky released her lips, her voice breaking with each thrust until her eyes locked onto his.


    They glazed in that moment with pure desire before Ricky leaned down once more, capturing her lips in a fierce, hungry kiss, his tongue dancing with hers as their bodies moved in perfect sync.


    "You can, Dolly," Ricky murmured with a sleazy smile against her lips, his voice low and reassuring.


    "You''re doing so well." Ricky''s words sent a shiver of excitement through her, and she felt herself pushing back against him even harder, desperate for more.


    "Ah~"


    "AH~"


    "AH!"


    The sounds of Dolly''s carnal begging filled with the sounds of their combined passion, the slap of skin against skin, the creaking of the bed, and their mingled breaths and moans.


    Ricky''s pace quickened, his thrusts becoming more urgent, more demanding, as he felt the tension coiling tight in her abdomen.


    He was close, so close, and he could feel Dolly''s body tightening around him, signaling her own impending release.


    "I''m coming, Dolly.'''' Ricky whispered, his voice seemingly inevitable as Dolly grabbed his back while her nails dug into his skin.


    "O-Ok~" Dolly whispered in his ears, her body obeying his words and accepting the oncoming fate of Ricky''s increasingly heighted thrusts.


    With the next thrust, Ricky''s hips slammed into hers, his cock driving deep into the very core of her being.


    "AH!" Dolly finally released out, the overwhelming sensation sent her over the edge, her orgasm crashing over her like a tidal wave, consuming her in a flood of ecstasy as she let out all her sweet honeyed nectar .


    Dolly''s inner walls clamped down around Ricky''s cock, her cries of pleasure filling the room.


    The intensity of her release pushed Ricky over the edge, and with a final, deep thrust, he followed her into bliss.


    Ricky''s cock erupted with his thick cum, spraying every single ounce within his balls into Dolly''s deepest regions as her body shuddered from being spilled into.


    For a moment, they lay there, bodies entwined, panting and trembling in the aftermath of their shared ecstasy.


    Ricky''s hand stroked Dolly''s hair tenderly, his touch a soothing contrast to the raw passion they had just experienced.


    Then, without any more hesitation, Dolly passed out in Ricky'' arms making him a little disappointed that this was all he got but decided to take her into his embrace.


    Laying on the bed with a severely tired Dolly, he gazed up at the blue screen which hovered above him.


    [Mission Received ''Dolly Henderson'']


    Difficulty: Hard


    Character Sheet: C


    Description: Dolly Henderson is the nurse who was attending you in the infirmary. You have shown considerable interest in her and she is indeed breedable. The problem is that she is twenty two and you are a mere nine year old child which makes the probability of this ever happening less than manageable.


    Objective: Impregnant Dolly Henderson though until you start puberty, this likelihood will be almost void though the system still wishes you luck.


    Rewards: 50,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    (Complete) Impregnante Dolly Once:


    Choose: 200 gacha spins or The choice of Dolly''s skills


    Impregnate Dolly Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnante Dolly when she''s ovulating (Complete)


    Reward: Familiar Coupon(Epic)


    Impregnante Dolly when she isn''t ovulating (Incomplete)


    Reward: Skill Coupon(Epic)


    Impregnante Dolly when she''s in a relationship (Incomplete)


    Reward: Title and 50 Gacha Coupons


    Bonus Missions:


    Get permission to creampie Dolly


    Reward: 5,000 IP


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ''That doesn''t seem logical.'' Ricky thought while looking at Dolly after seeing that she was supposedly pregnant.


    Ricky wasn''t a gynecologist, but he had to admit, her getting knocked up this quickly didn''t seem logical.


    However, after realizing only pussy''s with no sense of wonder would harp on the details and also the fact that he could create force fields and seeing the transparent screen that gave him powers, including the ability to impregnate women, he had to reconsider his assumptions.


    Until he altogether stopped harping on it and moved on with his life.


    ''200 gacha spins, easy.''

 Chapter 14: Lustful Gains

    Chapter 14: Lustful Gains


    *Ding*


    [Received: 200 gacha spins]


    Ricky didn''t know what talents Dolly had, but the gambler in him didn''t want to bet on something as trivial as those related to the nursing field so he took the latter.


    ''Ohohohoho baby, I''m feeling lucky!'' Ricky''s eyes lit up in greed as the roulette wheel appeared as he saw the 100x.


    Received:


    Common: Cobwebs x 76


    Common: Scented Mint Lotion x 10


    Common: Broken clocks x 4


    Common: Scented Pineapple Lotion x 3


    Common: LED flashlight


    Common: Winecooler


    Uncommon: 9mm pistol


    Uncommon: Medkits x 10


    Rare Item: Medieval Cannon


    Description: Shoots cannonballs


    Rare Item: Cross Necklace


    Description: Makes an unholy being in the area unable to look you in the eye.


    Rare Item: Courageous Thimble


    Description: Whoever adorned this thimble on their pinky will be able to gaze upon an army of 100,000 masters and simply laugh at the challenge.


    Epic Skill: Lie Detection


    Description: Anyone who tells a lie in front of you will cause a sixth sense to go off in your mind signaling the falsehood of their words.


    ''Ow.'' Ricky gripped his head after receiving the lie detection skill as infused into his mind.


    ''Wait, why do I have so many Cobwebs?'' Ricky stared oddly at the received goods, unable to hide his strange expression when he noticed that he had received cobwebs.


    ''At least I got a wine cooler.'' Ricky shrugged before seeing 100 gacha spins again.


    ''Come on, come on!''


    *Ding*


    Received:


    Common: Napkins x 99


    Legendary Item: Storage Space Key


    Description: A key that can be turned on any door and will lead to a 36 x 36 yard room that can have anything in the mortal plane stored in it.


    ''Well, I guess that''s useful.'' Ricky thought while gazing at the legendary item only to scrunch his eyebrows at all the napkins.


    Lastly, Ricky''s curiosity was piqued by a purple coupon labeled ''Familiar.'' Without considering privacy, he decided to rip it open right there.


    The coupon lifted into the air, spinning wildly as purple energy stretched and coalesced into a small figure.


    There was a sudden flash of purple light, and then, perched at the foot of the bed, a single crow appeared, tilting its head inquisitively at the two barely covered naked humans strung across the weirdly wet bed.


    *Ding*


    New Feature Gained: Familiar


    Familiar: Itachi''s Crow


    Description: The crow of Itachi who died before it could gain Shishui''s mangekyou sharingan.


    Skills:


    Chunin Chakra Reserves:


    Advanced Genjutsu: The Crow is adept in the art of trickery and illusion which stems from the power source of its Chakra Reserves.


    Favorability: 50


    Ricky and the Crow were weirdly staring at each other since neither of them knew what was happening though each of them received some information on each other.


    However, instead of complete obedience, familiars above the rank of Epic are not entitled to follow the words of their master.


    0 Favorability: The user gets nothing and cannot perceive the familiar''s powers.


    25 Favorability: The user can communicate telepathically with the familiar and see their abilities.


    50 Favorability: The user''s telepathic reach has no limits, allowing them to connect with the familiar regardless of distance.


    75 Favorability: The user can understand the familiar''s thoughts and intentions.


    100 Favorability: The user can borrow and use the familiar''s abilities.


    ''Is that a crow?'' Ricky thought as the crow tilted its head to the side as if understanding him.


    ''Raise a wing.''


    Favorability: 49


    ''Please.''


    Favorability: 50


    The crow raised a wing, seemingly responding to Ricky''s thoughts as he found this to be the coolest thing ever.


    ''Woah, you''re a crow and you can understand me?!'' Ricky thought in astonishment as the crow simply nodded at its new master.


    ''Well could we talk more tomorrow, could you also sleep outside since Dolly here isn''t that friendly to animals she hasn''t met.'' Ricky weirdly asked the crow as the latter simply gazed at the human woman at the side before flying out the window.


    ''So how does this shop work-''


    [SHOP]


    IP: 55,000


    Refreshable Items:


    Lust Lube: 2,500 Impregnation Points


    Description: A transparent lube that allows for smoother anal and gets any woman in the mood.


    Promiscuous scent(Passive): 20,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Anyone who owns this skill will passively give off a scent that will make any woman who smells it feel promiscuous when up close to the user.


    Wet Touch: 35,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: A skill that allows for the user to instantly make any girl wet and lubricate their insides for peak insertion.


    {Refresh Available}


    Daily Item:


    Lust Plug: 7,500 Impregnation Points


    Description: A butt plug that when inserted into the ass of any woman, will feel an equal amounts of pleasure while getting f*cked in their pussy.


    Weekly Item:


    Panty Vision: 10,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Allows for the user to easily look past any parts of a woman''s clothes to see their panties.


    Monthly Item:


    Toe Curling Pleasure Points: 500,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Allows for the user to see any woman''s pleasure points and with a little touching, maybe a little rubbing, you can give off a toe curling feel.


    Ricky looked at the shop and although his eyes immediately darted to ''Toe Curling Pleasure Points'', he was broke and didn''t care to save his points.


    Buying ''Wet Touch'' and ''Promiscuous scent'', he felt satisfied with his gains while cuddling up to Dolly by placing both hands on her perky buns before getting comfy.


    ''Now time to get some shut eye.''


    Next Morning,


    The sizzling of eggs filled the air as Dolly''s tired eyes fluttered open as she groggily patted the space next to her, only to realize it was empty.


    Fully waking, she stood up, feeling the ache in her back almost immediately though her thoughts were totally completely on the fact that Ricky was nowhere to be seen, she grabbed her robe and opened the bedroom door.


    "Morning doll." Ricky waved a spatula while literally wearing nothing but an old white apron as Dolly froze for a second.


    *Pffft*


    "Hahahahahaha!" Dolly couldn''t hold back her laughter, covering her mouth after also realizing Ricky wasn''t wearing anything except the apron.


    "What''s so funny?" Ricky played dumb while adorning a cheeky smirk as Dolly walked over to the counter.


    "Nothing, the apron really suits you." Dolly wore a warm smile as she sat down on the counter before watching Ricky start to cook.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    A knock rang out on the door as Ricky raised an eyebrow while looking toward Dolly who was also as confused as her.


    "I''ll get it." Dolly stood up before walking over to the door and opening it to reveal a familiar figure.


    "Al?" Dolly looked surprised, calling out to the man who was about to speak but froze stiff at the sight of Dolly only covering herself with a bathrobe before immediately shutting the door right in his face.


    *BAM*


    "Ricky, you have to hide!" Dolly screamed in a whisper, her face red in embarrassment as Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "Is he your boyfriend-"


    "No, he was Sammy''s partner." Dolly urged Ricky who frowned though understood and walked to the bedroom without a complaint.


    Adjusting herself, Dolly opened the door to see Officer, now detective, Albert who coughed before bringing up a warm smile.


    "And a good morning to you too Dolly." Albert joked, trying not to make the situation any more awkward than it already was as Dolly let out a forced laugh.


    "G-Guys!" Rocco suddenly tapped the two others as Jake and Edward were jerked awake.


    They had camped out in front all night. Although the situation was obvious, Edward insisted on proof, forcing them to stay and wait for Ricky''s rejection.


    As the hours dragged on, their eyes gradually closed, and they all fell asleep in the car.


    Eventually, Rocco woke up to find the very person they believed was trying to bring their family down.


    Detective Albert.


    Although New York was now in the hands of the mafia, some people stood strong against this force and one that always seemed to rear his head was Detective Albert.


    "It''s that pig, Albert." Rocco''s words caused a cold bucket of water to pour on Jake and Edward'' head as they suddenly woke up.


    *Click*


    "We can''t let Slick be taken here!" Edward reached for his gun but Jake quickly stopped him.


    "Wait, he''s probably here to check up on Dolly. However, if he enters the house we''ll go in, alright?" Jake spoke since if they took out Albert here then his allies would use this event to crucify the mob.


    "Fine, but if that pig takes one step through that door he''s dead."


    "I''m sorry but I barely have anything on and I got embarrassed." Dolly quickly made up the first excuse that came to mind while Albert looked down instinctively, his face flushing furiously.


    "Oh golly, I didn''t mean to-"


    "No it''s ok-"


    "I''ll come back later!"


    "Y-Yes!"


    *BAM*


    The door was then once again promptly shut in Albert''s face as he stood there for a while before grabbing his face in distress.


    "What are you doing Al." Albert gripped his forehead, he reprimanded himself in distress while looking at the yellow daisy''s he was hiding behind his back.


    Placing it at the walkway, Albert sighed before walking back as the three of Jake, Edward, and Bocca started laughing hysterically.


    "NO WAY!" Rocco hit the back of the seat in a crazed laugh as Edward tried to catch his breath as he felt like he couldn''t breath.


    "We''ll have to tell-" Jake was about to say something until he saw Albert not walking back to his car but to theirs.


    *Tap*


    *Tap*


    Albert tapped on the window as the three of their laughs disintegrated into the air as a deadly atmosphere formed.


    "Hello detective, how may we assist you?" Jake rolled down the window a bit before putting on a fake smile as Albert leaned against the car.


    "Where''s Slick?" Albert asked since the four of them are always together which made this situation even weirder.


    "That''s a good question, do you boys know?" Jake turned to the two as they both shrugged.


    "Haven''t seen him."


    "Wonder where he is."


    The two of them denied knowing where he was as Albert balled his fists as his eyes gave Jake a piercing glare.


    "Why are you here?" Albert asked without asking as he hissed though Jake shrugged.


    "We were out for a drive and decided to park on this ''public'' road." Jake leaned back on the seat since they weren''t breaking a single law.


    "You really want to play this game with me right now?" Albert wiped his mouth as Rocco scoffed at this gesture.


    "We ain''t done nothing wrong, so why don''t you go back to your pig pen and roll around with the other trash." Rocco sneered at Albert who faked a laugh at his implication.


    "Get out of here." Albert demanded but now it was Edward''s turn to scoff.


    "Or what-"


    "Or I''ll go back to the station and grab four squad cars to beat the sh*t out of you three!" Albert was on edge since he didn''t know why these goons were out front of Dolly''s place but he wasn''t going to wait too long to find out.


    "Then I guess we''ll wait." Jake smiled and once he did, Albert kicked the car before walking back to his car.


    Jake waited for him to leave before exiting the car as Edward and Rocco pulled out their revolvers to watch his back.


    *Bam*


    *Bam*


    *Bam*


    "Y-Yes-"


    "Slick, we need to go!" Jake opened the door to look past Dolly while yelling urgently as the half naked Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "Why are you still here?" Ricky asked since they shouldn''t be here in the first place as Jake let out a skyward laugh.


    "Edward''s stubbornness." Jake explained quickly and Ricky sighed since he understood all too well while walking back to the bedroom.


    "How long."


    "Ten minutes."


    "I''ll be out in two."


    Ricky and Jake exchanged a few quick words before Jake nodded and hurried back to the car.


    Meanwhile, Ricky began to get dressed.


    "Is something wrong Ricky?" Dolly worriedly asked from behind as Ricky pulled up his pants, buckling his belt in the next step.


    Turning around, Ricky pulled Dolly closer before bringing her into an aggressive kiss as his hands made work in fondling both her perky buns.


    "Ricky~" Dolly blushed as Ricky winked at her before rushing out the door as the sounds of sirens blared in the distance.


    "I THOUGHT YOU SAID 10!" Ricky yelled as he rushed towards the card as Jake opened the door for him.


    "HOW WAS I SUPPOSED TO KNOW THAT PIG COULD ROUND UP HIS HERD SO FAST!" Jake yelled as he watched Ricky put on his jacket, quickly opening the car door for him to jump in.


    The Cadillac roared as it sped off, and Ricky reached into the glove compartment.


    Initially, Ricky could barely hit a target, however with a lot of practice and countless lessons from Lucky, he had achieved amateur proficiency.


    "What did you do!" Ricky turned around as the two of Edward and Rocco froze, unable to explain themselves.


    "F*ck!" Ricky shook his head before looking back to see cop cars popping up one after another behind him.


    "We are so f*cked."

 Chapter 15: Gotta Get Away, Got To Make A Dash

    Chapter 15: Gotta Get Away, Got To Make A Dash


    "JAKE WHAT HAPPENED!" Ricky yelled, turning his head back to see five cop cars whip around the corner before chasing them down the streets of brooklyn at this very second.


    "NOTHING-"


    "EDDY!" Ricky turned to the side and grabbed Edward''s collar, yanking him towards him as the others were staring daggers at him as bullets of sweat flew down their foreheads.


    "DETECTIVE ALBERT CAME TO SEE DOLLY AND THEN HE NOTICED US AND-"


    "EDDY!" Ricky yelled again, seeing Edward look away in shame knowing he was lying.


    "WE MADE A BET, BUT I WAS TOO CHEAP TO ADMIT THAT YOU BAGGED DOLLY!" Edward confessed as Ricky''s face palmed along with Jake.


    "WHY DID YOU TELL HIM!" Jake reprimanded Edward while Rocco rolled down the window while cocking his gun.


    "PULL OVER!" The cops yelled as Albert led the charge against the Cadillac while Ricky'' face dropped.


    "We should pull over they don''t got nothing on us-"


    "It doesn''t matter, they always find a charge to stick us with." Ricky answered Edward while looking at the cop cars though they didn''t start shooting at them which is good.


    "Jake, can you lose them?" Ricky asked though Jake grimaced as he suddenly swerved the car to the right and around a corner.


    "The cop cars, maybe, but not Detective Albert." Jake guessed that although their car was faster than a regular cop car, Al''s car wasn''t a standard issue squad car and was much faster.


    "I got a plan but we might wreck the car-.....and we might die." Ricky suddenly spoke as the three of them had dead pained expressions.


    "You know what, f*ck it, what do you have in mind Slick?" Jake usually was the voice of reason but in this moment, he decided to trust Ricky.


    "Drive to the old cricket bridge-MAKE A RIGHT!" Ricky suddenly yelled as Jake jerked the steering wheel to the right as the two of Edward and Rocco were slammed to the left.


    "That bridge is missing the middle-"


    "I know, just trust me." Ricky looked at Edward who wanted to say something but gulp before nodding in affirmation.


    Meanwhile at Italiano''s,


    *BAM*


    "LUCKY IT''S SLICK!" Meyer barged into Lucky''s office as the notorious mobster sighed.


    "What did he do this time-"


    "IT''S THE COPS, THEY''RE AFTER HIM!" Meyer yelled which made Lucky bolt to his feet as he grabbed the coat hanging on his chair.


    "What did he do?" Lucky followed Meyer out, assuming that he had simply beaten the living crap out of someone.


    "It''s serious this time Lucky, they''re trying to stick bogus charges on him." Meyer informed Lucky who let out a ugly scowl as he arrived at the lobby of Italiano''s to see his family gathered.


    "So the cops are finally making their move." Lucky grimaced though instead of Ricky, he thought they would go after him.


    "FAN OUT, WE HAVE TO GET TO THOSE BOYS BEFORE THOSE COPPERS DO!"


    "YES BOSS!"


    Meanwhile, on the other side of Brooklyn, a Cadillac was speeding down a dirt road with a Ford Model A in hot pursuit. They swerved left and right, the chase intensifying with each twist and turn.


    "Slick what''s the plan, SLICK!" Rocco kept tapping on Ricky''s shoulder as he had his eyes closed.


    "Jake, I need you to tell me at the exact moment where we are about to cross the broken part of the bridge." Ricky informed Jake who nodded urgently while zoning in on the upcoming bridge as Albert''s eyes widened.


    "DON''T BE IDIOTS!" Albert yelled out his window though even if those four could hear him they wouldn''t listen.


    Albert had always planned to make his move and when he saw those four kids, he knew that Ricky had to be with them.


    All he wanted was to set these kids up with a bogus charge to draw out Lucky, slowing down the operation.


    However, it didn''t mean he wanted to get them killed.


    "STOP!" Albert screamed but the Cadillac only seemed to speed up while rushing towards the bridge as Albert gritted his teeth.


    "DAMMIT!" Albert slammed his foot on the brake right at the entrance of the bridge as the Cadillac entered the rickety bridge.


    "NOW SLICK!" Jake yelled as Ricky gritted his teeth as he imagined an invisible rectangle around himself and the car.


    A forcefield began to materialize around Ricky, its shimmering edges slowly forming into a precise rectangular shape.


    As it solidified, the barrier extended outward, enveloping not only Ricky but also stretching to encompass the entire length of the car as the wheel''s of the Cadillac trailed across it.


    "Urgh." Ricky grunted, feeling the weight of the car pressing down on his mind but despite this, he gritted his teeth and continued on, while Albert and the rest of them widened their eyes in response.


    "What in god''s name?" Albert whispered in shock as his eyes became incredulous as they picked up on the car seemingly driving on air before reaching the other side of the bridge.


    "WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"


    "SLICK YOUR CRAZY, CRAZY!"


    "WE''RE ALIVE!"


    The three of them screamed as Ricky released the force field, leaning back in the chair as beads of sweat trailed down his forehead.


    They all patted Ricky''s shoulder, letting out relieved laughs as Jake drove the car into a safe area.


    "Lucky they escaped!" Meyer let out a relieved cry after hearing from his one-way police radio.


    Until 1933, police radios were only capable of one-way communication, allowing the department to send messages to their officers but not receive any in return which allowed for an easier way to obtain information by other forces.


    After Albert failed to catch the speeding car, he walked and drove back to the department to issue orders to locate the car on the other side of the bridge.


    "Head to the mansion then Meyer." Lucky quickly said as their car made a quick u-turn.


    Riding back, Lucky anxiously tapped the dashboard before the car made its way into the driveway.


    Grabbing his cane, Lucky rushed into the mansion and upon opening the door he saw four people chugging alcohol like no tomorrow.


    "AHHHHH~ THE TASTE OF FREEDOM!" Ricky cried out as he held up the bottle of rum as the three of Jake, Edward, and Rocco cheered.


    *Sigh*


    "And here I was worried about him." Lucky face palmed as Meyer and Frank patted each side of his shoulder.


    "Look on the bright side, at least the boys are okay." Frank smirked while walking forward to join in the festivities.


    "Wait, is that my good rum!" Lucky scrunched his eyebrows and pointed his cane at Ricky who just drank the last drop.


    Silence ensued as the fuming Lucky gazed viciously at Ricky who looked around only to then gaze back at his father.


    "No?"


    "YOU F*CKER!"


    Later that day,


    News that would ever shake up the rum running scene arrived on the doorsteps at every doorstep of anything attached to the federal government including the Brooklyn P.D.


    Albert, who was drowning in failure, gazed at the news recently reported after some of his men found the cadillac.


    As Albert assumed, the car was trashed and burned before a random paid off civilian took the pin for the reckless driving APB.


    Now the only thing that would be left was to bide his time before trying to make another try.


    Until a present arrived on his desk.


    "Is this true!" Albert jumped to his feet as he gazed at his fellow detective who smiled in agreement.


    "Chief, CHIEF!" Albert rang to the Chief''s office as the old man sighed, seeing his door get busted open.


    "IS THIS TRUE!" Albert slammed the paper onto the desk of the tired Chief who simply wanted to go home to eat his wife''s cooking.


    "Yes Detective Al-"


    "Let me set up the taskforce!" Albert interrupted the Chief who let out an annoyed sigh.


    "For what?" Chief scrunched his eyebrows as ALbert smiled widely.


    "Because once the prohibition ends, the Luciano family will surely be scrambling to make up profits, this is the perfect time to strike-"


    "Why won''t you let this go? Is this because of Sammy?" Chief Johnston had a sad expression as Albert froze.


    "I know what I saw that day, Chief." Albert''s face was serious only for the Chief to reach down and open his drawer.


    "I think it''s time for you to see this." Chief Johnston took out a folder and set it in front of Albert.


    Albert hesitated after seeing ''Sammy Henderson'' on the front but eventually took the folder before immediately slamming it back on the desk upon reading the first line.


    "SAMMY WOULDN-"


    "THAT''S ENOUGH OUT OF YOU DETECTIVE, DO YOU WANT TO LOSE YOUR BADGE!" Chief Jonhston stood up and pointed at Albert who flinched while ducking his head.


    "I''VE BEEN PATIENT, I''VE SUPPORTED ALL YOUR VENTURES WITH THE LUCIANO FAMILY, AND WHAT DO I GET FOR IT ALL, DISRESPECT!" Chief Johnston pointed at Albert who couldn''t refute his words.


    "YOUR BACKING DOWN FROM THE LUCIANO FAMILY FOR THE TIME BEING AND THAT''S NOT MY ADVICE, THAT''S AN ORDER!" Chief Johnston screeched at Albert who gazed up in horror.


    "But Chief-"


    "GET OUT OR LEAVE YOUR BADGE AT THE DOOR BECAUSE YOU''LL HAVE TO GET OUTTA MY SIGHT EITHER WAY!" Chief Johnston ordered as Albert hesitated for a while but took the file before leaving, with his badge.


    *Sigh*


    Chief Johnston collapsed back onto his chair, gazing at Albert''s parting back while shaking his head.


    "Such a good kid, good noggin on him." Chief Johnston sighed once more while reaching for his phone.


    "It''s a shame that he''s gonna get himself killed." Chief Johnston dialed a certain number on the phone.


    *Click*


    "What." Lucky''s voice sounded on the other side of the phone as Chief Johnston adjusted his collar.


    "Mr. Luciano, word from D.C has arrived that they will repeal the prohibition." Chief Johnston dabbed his forehead intently as he heard a ragged breath.


    "How far along is it?" Lucky asked as Chief Johnston went through his notes to find a paper.


    "It is at the proposal stage but they are saying that it could be repealed as early as next year." Chief Johnston whispered as Lucky clicked his tongue.


    "Inform me of any word you get from this, understood?" Lucky commanded as Chief Johnston nodded.


    "Yes, of course." Chief Johnston hurriedly spoke while dabbing his forehead again.


    "Have you done what I asked about Detective Albert?" Lucky asked with a deadly tone, making Chief Johnston pale from the mere tone.


    "Y-Yes, I gave him the folder." Chief Johnston replied eagerly while revealing it to be a ploy of Lucky.


    "Chief, don''t you think it would be best to clean up the station a little?" Lucky seemingly asked without asking as Chief''s eyes closed.


    "O-Of course." Chief Johnston let out a dejected agreement as Lucky chucked on the other end.


    "And Mr. Luciano about getting me the judgeship?" Chief Johnston hurriedly asked as the mobster cracked up.


    "You''ll get it once I get Albert and all his close friends'' heads." Lucky informed Chief Johnston who ducked his head.


    "What do you need me to do?"

 Chapter 16: Future Gameplan

    Chapter 16: Future Gameplan


    The next day,


    "Slick."


    "Yes?"


    "Why is there a crow perched on your shoulder?"


    Lucky called Ricky into his office only to see his son walk in with a Crow curiously gazing around the office.


    "Oh Chester?" Ricky pointed at the name he had suddenly come up with as the crow now named Chester gazed at the situation curiously.


    [Favorability: 54]


    *Sigh*


    "You named it?" Lucky facepalmed as Ricky shrugged while walking over to the nearby couch as Chester flapped his wings.


    Chester felt uncomfortable on Ricky''s shoulder, positioning his feet in different ways to find a suitable resting spot only to no avail.


    Looking around, Chester suddenly flapped his wings as Ricky flinched and watched him perch itself on a nearby lamp as Lucky weirdly stared at him.


    "Why can''t you be a normal kid and irresponsibility get a dog, huh?" Lucky turned towards Ricky with a weird expression as his son shrugged.


    "I think I''m past being ''normal''." Ricky spoke while flexing his powers as Lucky sighed, running his hand through his hair.


    "I''m guessing you want me to get the necessary things for a crow like a cage-"


    "CAW~" Chest screeched at the mention of a cage as Lucky flinched at the sudden objection.


    "Everything except a cage, right Chester?" Ricky looked over at him as the bird nodded its little beak.


    Lucky looked back and forth from Chester to Ricky before shaking his head as this development was too much for him as of now.


    "Whatever, I''ll take care of it." Lucky let out a heavy sigh as Ricky gave him a thumbs up.


    "Anyways, I have to talk with you about something." Lucky''s face became serious in an instant.


    Ricky simply raised an eyebrow but tuned in since he could tell that their next conversation would be a serious one.


    "I want us, our family, to become the sole mafia organization in the entirety of New York." Lucky dropped an atomic bomb of a statement which made Ricky, who was about to joke, suddenly froze in shock.


    "..."


    "Pops, you''re kidding." Ricky, who was about to sip on Lucky''s good rum, stopped and asked in a baffled tone.


    Lucky didn''t say anymore and placed a gun on the table as Ricky understood that he wasn''t kidding.


    "Do I look like the type of joe to kid around with stuff like this?" Lucky leaned back in his chair while gesturing to Ricky who rolled his eyes.


    "But still-"


    "This whole five family thing will work for maybe 10-20 years but sooner or later, they''ll turn their back on profits for power." Lucky pointed at Ricky with a slight smile.


    "That''s where you come in, the future of our family, the gifts God gave you shouldn''t be tucked away but elevate us." Lucky lectured though Ricky was used to this.


    The government and other mob bosses might call Charlie ''Lucky'' Luciano a man who only got to where he is with pure luck but Ricky knew better.


    Lucky was a genius businessman.


    He wasn''t just a genius but a calculative thinker who masked all of his success with the notion of insane luck which loosened the guards of many bosses.


    In fact, Lucky didn''t believe in luck or karma, he believed in results and he made sure to produce them at every chance.


    "I know that pops, but let''s say we pull it off and get rid of the five families, the power vacuum will be too large and we don''t have the power to manage all that territory." Ricky informed his father as Lucky smiled widely at this deduction.


    Although Ricky presented himself as an adult, he wasn''t the sharpest tool in the shed, and because of that Lucky had been struggling to instruct him.


    Lucky believed that formal studies were for those who couldn''t make it on their own and firmly adhered to the ideology of ''teaching by the streets.''


    To ensure Ricky learned from this ideology, Lucky made sure to include him thoroughly in all business decisions and negotiations, hoping that his own strategic thinking would rub off on him.


    For the first time, it seemed to be working.


    "This is where you come in my boy." Lucky pointed at Ricky who showed a weird look, knowing he was going to be roped into this situation.


    "You want me to show my powers?" Ricky asked as Lucky shook his head.


    "No, no, our people are as stubborn as seventeen pack mules." Lucky dissuaded that thought as Ricky nodded since that was the truth.


    "I want the people of faith to acknowledge you." Lucky pointed, and Ricky scrunched his eyebrows in confusion, unable to fully grasp Lucky''s reasoning.


    "Let me clarify, I want your gifts to be recognized by god." Lucky smiled as Ricky let out a sarcastic laugh.


    "Alright, let me just go punch my ticket with the big man." Ricky shot to his feet while shaking his head while walking to the door, thinking it was a joke only for Lucky to stand up.


    "Listen Slick it won''t be immediately, maybe a couple of years, but if we can-"


    "The pope, no, the church will never recognize my ''gifts''." Ricky finally understood what Lucky was getting at.


    "Slick-"


    "Ha, pops they will just burn me at the stake. They literally did that to some random schmuck who used his powers in front of some hillbillies down in Arkansas a month ago." Ricky let out a dried laughter, slicking his hands through his hair while turning his back to the craziest plan he had heard from Lucky yet.


    Although the mafia and the public didn''t favor mutants, it was religious fanatic''s that continued to push the agenda that mutants were the devils powers and continuously held stake burnings as if it was still the witch hunting days.


    It was actually to the point where Ricky had started to understand how much the world truly feared mutants enough to hate them.


    "Slick, calm down." Lucky put his hands on Ricky''s shoulders as the young man gazed at the ceiling while shaking his head.


    "Listen, I have a couple of birds still back in Italy and tension is brewing meaning maybe a way, maybe another war." Lucky bit his lip as Ricky raised eyebrows in surprise.


    ''Woah.'' Ricky thought as though he knew there would be another world war in the near future but it didn''t mean he wanted to join it.


    But it was still surprising that Lucky had predicted it since not even the world had predicted it as of yet.


    "I want you to join the war, if there ever is a war, but not on the side of America, but for god." Lucky pointed as Ricky scrunched his eyebrows.


    "You''re kidding."


    "Religion is everything to Silicians and Silicians are everything to the mafia, you get the church to acknowledge you then you get the mafia Slick." Lucky informed Ricky who started to think as he messaged his eyes.


    "What am I gonna be, a crusader?" Ricky looked at Lucky with a dumbfounded expression as Lucky stood up and walked over to him.


    "Buddy look at me." Lucky patted Ricky''s cheek as he gazed at his adoptive father who showed a heartfelt expression.


    "I want you, my son, to have it all and I know this is a risk but this will make sure that the Luciano family, our family, will survive the test of times." Lucky seriously spoke from the bottom of his heart as Ricky frowned.


    "As long as the church doesn''t recognize you and the other families find out about your powers first, they will never let you go and even start a war with the family." Lucky looked Ricky directly in the eyes which made Ricky sigh.


    "Listen, I can''t keep covering for you when you use your powers, our territory ain''t stretched far enough." Lucky reprimanded Ricky in his own way as he rubbed the back of his neck, knowing that he had gotten too drunk a month ago and showed it to some random homeless man, for literally no reason at all.


    "Alright Pops, what''s the game plan?" RIcky asked as Lucky chuckled while walking back to his desk.


    "I have no idea." Lucky shrugged while Ricky''s face became plain while gazing at him.


    "What? I didn''t want to go ahead without your permission, I''m not some sort of heartless father who will just send you to the battlefield against your will." Lucky scoffed while sitting back on his chair.


    Lucky wanted to give his son the world, but it seemed the world wasn''t ready for Ricky''s gifts, which greatly irked him.


    He had been brainstorming multiple ways to ensure that people viewed Ricky as a blessing rather than a curse ever since he adopted him.


    Getting recognized was the most surefire way of getting Ricky the praise he deserved, and it only made it better that the Vatican was surrounded by enemies on all sides.


    "Then what about the commission?" Ricky sighed while plopping down on the chair as Lucky shrugged.


    "No idea, but during this meeting we''ll be able to figure out who''s weak without bootlegging." Lucky rubbed his chin as Ricky suddenly had an idea.


    "Don''t we also have an agreement to not mess with the kids of members at Collegiate High School?" Ricky asked with a cheeky smile as Lucky raised an eyebrow.


    "You can''t be serious Slick, those snobby private schools don''t teach you nothing." Lucky pointed at Ricky who stood up with that dumb smile.


    "Enroll me pops." Ricky walked up to the desk as Lucky shook his head.


    "Ain''t no way on this green earth that I-"


    "Pops trust me." Ricky was serious as he gazed straight into Lucky''s eyes as he sighed.


    "It''ll be good to rub shoulders with the children of the elite and if I''m enrolled then the other families won''t be able to look too deeply into me while you form a plan." Ricky watched as Lucky contemplated for a long time on whether this was worth it.


    "Fine, but I swear I''ll yank you out so fast if I find out you''re going there to party." Lucky relented as Ricky flashed a soothy smile.


    "And one more thing." Lucky suddenly stopped Ricky who was about to leave as he turned back to see Lucky holding a slick black card.


    "A business card?" Ricky raised an eyebrow as he took the card before showing an even weirder expression.


    "It''s a last resort, a place that will give you shelter in a time of need." Lucky pointed at Ricky who pointed at the card.


    "But it''s a hotel-"


    "Slick, that ain''t no normal hotel." Lucky''s face was adorned in an utmost seriousness as Ricky shrugged.


    "Keep it on you at all times and if they ever try to blackmail you into a membership, ask for the free trial." Lucky continued to speak what Ricky interpreted as nonsense but he nodded, putting it in his wallet since he could see that he wasn''t joking.


    "Do you also want to give me the card to your favorite restaurant as well?" Ricky joked as Lucky rolled his eyes but flashed a smile.


    *Knock*


    Ricky knocked on Lucky''s desk before strolling over to the desk as he shook his head.


    "We''re leaving at 8 tomorrow to go to the commission meeting so you better be up and in a suit." Lucky said as Ricky waved without turning back.


    "AN ITALIAN SUIT!"


    Next Morning,


    *Smack*


    "Ow!" Ricky faked a pained groan as Lucky shook his head.


    "What was that for, this is italian." Ricky pointed at his fine black suit with a white collared shirt and a slick black tie.


    "With Dolly, really!" Lucky yelled as he pushed Ricky into the seat while shutting the door behind him, the car immediately driving off with the driver putting in his ear plugs.


    "What? You''ve seen that perky ass of hers-OW! OW!" Ricky tried to plead his case only for Lucky to start beating him with his elephant tusk cane.


    *DINK*


    "Drop your force field right this instant, take this ass beating like a man!" Lucky demanded as Ricky shook his head, rubbing his head with a wronged expression.


    "God would''ve wanted me to use my gift rather than hide it." Ricky gave a smart ass reply as Lucky immediately scoffed.


    "You know what, I''m going to let you off." Lucky shook his head while rebuttoning the bottom of his suit as Ricky showed a surprised expression.


    "Reall-"


    "This will be a learning experience for you with women and will teach you how to not be a f*ck up." Lucky shook his head while knowing full well that this will end poorly but it could be worse.


    "It''s as if you expect me to make my own life harder." Ricky smiled while leaning back on the leather seats.


    "Oh Slick, you are patient zero for bad influences, you have a way with people that always seems to bring out the worst in them." Lucky sighed as he had seen how badly Ricky had influenced not only his friends, but even the maids and was baffled at how ignorant he was of these changes.


    "I forgot to ask you but can Jake, Rocco, and Edward come to Collegiate High School?" Ricky asked since it was easier to bring people than gain people.


    Lucky paused for a moment, recalling that they were only around 18 or 19. However, he had his ways to get them in and also trusted that they would ensure he wouldn''t do anything reckless.


    "Fine." Lucky shrugged, letting Ricky have his way as he smiled.


    "Thanks Pops."


    The drive was a casual one as Ricky and Lucky only made small talk until he met at a fine dining Italian restaurant.


    Three cars which had Lucky''s and Ricky protecting waited outside while the two of them walked into the fine dining establishment.


    "Don''t be a smartass these men are not to be f*cked with, understand?" Lucky whispered, tugging at his shoulder only for Ricky to nod with a yawn.


    "Got it."


    "And remember everything I told you about each boss." Lucky whispered as they walked past double doors to nine people already waiting.


    In every meeting, one boss was able to bring one person to the meeting which was usually their underboss, but there were always exceptions.


    "Lucky!"

 Chapter 17: The Commission

    Chapter 17: The Commission


    "Lucky!" Tommy Gaglino walked over to Lucky as time seemed to stand still as Ricky gazed at him.


    Tommy Gaglino, leader of Gaglio Family.


    Activities: Racketeering, robbery, illegal gambling, drug trafficking, truck hijacking, bribery, loan sharking, fraud, assault, fencing, money laundering, extortion, murder, arms trafficking, and theft.


    Main source of income: Alcohol and Racketeering


    Influence:


    New Jersey


    Brooklyn


    Manhattan


    Bronx (Based)


    "Tommy!" Lucky let out a genuine smile as he hugged the man while patting his back.


    "And you must be his boy, Slick right?" Tommy pointed at Ricky who smiled while holding out his hand.


    "The one and only." Ricky flashed a toothy smile as Tommy started hollering in laughter.


    "THIS GUY!" Tommy patted Ricky''s shoulder before realizing something.


    "I''m sure you know me but this is my underboss, Lucchese." Tommy suddenly remembered, introducing his protege as Lucchese smiled as his profile surfaced in Ricky''s mind.


    Tommy ''Three Fingers'' Lucchese, he''s a man who Lucky derives as a pacifist.


    No one calls him Tommy or Three fingers since he gave up his first name out of respect for his mentor and to all those who call him three finger, he''ll literally cut off one of your fingers.


    Before he was a mobster, Lucchese worked in the factories before a freak accident caused him two fingers and his job which ultimately turned him to the streets.


    "It''s nice to meet ya Slick." Lucchese nodded to Ricky before backing behind Tommy.


    "So you brought your boy instead of Genovese, huh?" A voice came from the side as Ricky turned to see Vincent ''Vinny'' Mangano.


    Vincent ''Vinny'' Mangano, leader of the Mangano family.


    Activities: Racketeering, extortion, fraud, illegal gambling, money laundering, murder, robbery, drug trafficking, fencing, truck hijacking, loan sharking, prostitution and pornography


    Main Source of Income: Alcohol and Loan Sharking


    Influences:


    Long Island


    Staten Island


    Manhattan (Based)


    Queens


    Brooklyn


    "What can I say Vinny, he''s special." Lucky propped up Ricky as the man behind him raised an eyebrow.


    Carlo Gambino, underboss of Vincent ''Vinny'' Mangano, and given the nickname ''Don'' as a symbol of respect he earned by his family as although he was an underboss, he was respected as a Don.


    "Don Carlo." Carlo''s introduction was cut and dry though that''s the type of person he was.


    "Slick." Ricky shook Carlo''s hand as he squeezed it before Ricky raised a smile and clamped down on his grip, making Carlo wince.


    "What are you a gorilla?" Carlo joked before prying his hand free as Ricky raised a smile.


    "What are you a midget?" Ricky joked back, making Carlo''s eyebrow twitched as although he was thirty, a mere fourteen year old was taller than him.


    *Smack*


    "What did I say about you being a smartass, huh!" Lucky smacked Ricky on the back of the head though everyone had bursted into laughter at this point as Carlo''s face was red in anger.


    "Whoa slow down their speed racer, come on." Vinny, seeing Carlo about to blow his top, guided him away as someone patted Ricky''s shoulder.


    "I swear that Carlo gets redder than a balloon when he''s angry." Joe Bonanno shook his head while leaning on him.


    Joe ''Joe Bananas'' Bonanno, leader of the Bonanno family.


    Activities: Racketeering, loansharking, money laundering, murder, drug trafficking, extortion and illegal gambling


    Main source of income: Loansharking and Alcohol


    Influences:


    Long Island


    Staten Island (Based)


    Queens


    Brooklyn


    Joe Bananas got his nickname after going crazy one day and beating the actual flesh off of a man.


    Some say it was because he tried to do something to the man''s wife, while others swear on their souls that he is a psychopath.


    But what the stories shared in common was that they claim that throughout the entire ordeal, he was smiling.


    "Slick." Ricky held out his hand and Joe shook it with a firm grip.


    "Joe." Joe smiled warmly, his expression so convincing it could fool even the devil himself.


    Joe had recently been named the boss of the Bonanno family and had not yet chosen an underboss.


    However, it wouldn''t be hard to decide, as despite his recent rise to power, he remained a respected figure within his family.


    "So you''re the boy I''ve heard so much about."


    Ricky turned to the side to see a man already sitting at the table as he had a golden picky ring flashing in the light.


    Giuseppe "Joe" Profaci, leader of the Profaci Family.


    Activities: Arms trafficking, arson, assault, battery, bribery, burglary, cigarette smuggling, chop shop, conspiracy, contract killing, counterfeiting, drug trafficking, extortion, fencing, fraud, illegal gambling, larceny, loansharking, money laundering, murder, racketeering, robbery, skimming, theft, truck hijacking, tax evasion, and protection rackets.


    Main source of income: Smuggling, protection rackets, counterfeiting, drug trafficking, and bootlegging.


    Influences:


    Long Island (Based)


    Queens


    Brooklyn


    Other than the Luciano family, the Profaci family at this very moment, were the strongest mafia family with them basically controlling the long island ports.


    It was to the point that nothing crossed through the port without them approving it first which led to their smuggling ring to be one of their strongest sources of income.


    Joseph ''Joe Evil Eye'' Magliocco was Joe Profaci''s underboss as well as his brother-in-law.


    Joe Profaci was a staunch believer in traditional values, placing immense importance on family and familial ties.


    For him, forging connections with others was often done through marriage. In contrast, Magliocco, who preferred to go by his last name, was a quiet and reserved man. He kept to himself, acknowledging Ricky with nothing more than a simple nod.


    "How old are you son?" Profaci asked while leaning back in his chair.


    "Never old enough." Ricky commented as Profaci started laughing at his joke with amused eyes.


    "Ain''t that the truth." A man downing a flask commented from the side.


    Stefano "The Undertaker" Magaddino.


    Activities: Extortion, bookmaking, drug trafficking, loan-sharking, gambling, racketeering, labor racketeering, conspiracy and murder.


    Main Source of income: Extortion, bookmaking, drug trafficking, and bootlegging.


    Influences:


    Buffalo(Based)


    New Jersey


    Brooklyn


    Manhattan


    Despite his drunken facade, Stefano was ruthlessly efficient and wouldn''t hesitate to put a bullet in anyone who questioned his authority.


    His underboss, Joseph "Lead Pipe" Todaro, was Stefano''s right-hand man, known for handling all the dirty work with a lead pipe, earning him his menacing nickname.


    "Really Stefano, we have children here!" Profaci gestured his hands towards Stefano who rolled his eyes and took a spiteful filled sip from his flask.


    "Apologize for being late folks." The door opened to reveal not Al Capone, a man known throughout history as the best gangster, but his sidekick.


    Frank Ralph Nitto or Frank Nitti


    Activities: Gambling, prostitution, bootlegging, bribery, narcotics trafficking, robbery, "protection" rackets, and murder.


    Main source of income: Gambling, prostitution, and bootlegging.


    Chicago(Based)


    Brooklyn (Based)


    Manhattan


    Bronx


    Queens


    Staten Island


    Long Island


    "Then let''s begin the meeting."


    Seated around the round table, the bosses had their underbosses standing behind them, for those who had brought one along.


    "First things first, how is Al Capone''s case going?" Lucky asked Frank who nodded his head since in this universe, the case was still being drawn out.


    "He''ll do it like he always does, but he sent me to hear everything." Frank informed the rest as they nodded in compliance.


    "Very well, let''s move onto the main reason I called this emergency meeting today." Lucky became serious as the other boss sensed the mood slowly change.


    "The prohibition is going to end." Lucky spoke the words that had activity cut their profits in half in that second as the ones who didn''t know reacted the loudest.


    *BAM*


    "WHAT DO YOU MEAN IT''S ENDING!" Vinny slammed the table while standing up before a hand was placed on his shoulder which revealed itself to be his underboss.


    *Cough*


    "Pardon me but explain, Lucky." Vinny sat back down calmly as Carlo patted him a couple more times as the air seemed to become suffocating.


    "That Roosevelt wasn''t joshing us when he said that his main goal was ending the prohibition and it looks like he''s going to win." Lucky broke the news as the other bosses became deep in thought.


    "Then I guess that Hoover guy has secured my vote." Ricky joked as the bosses looked at each other before bursting out in laughter, immediately breaking the tense atmosphere.


    "This kid!" Profaci buttered up Ricky who smiled only for Lucky nudged him to shut it.


    "Roosevelt is going to win, I''ve seen the early first polls and even with us funding his rivals, he doubles everyone." Lucky returned the atmosphere to its original murky mood as everyone comptplated.


    Bootlegging was a very profitable venture for each of them and the pie always seemed to get bigger and bigger as the years progressed, yet now that pie was about to vanish.


    "Why don''t we whack him?" Stefano offered, though Lucky and Profaci immediately shook their heads.


    "The second we do, then the entire government and the public will chase us back into Sicily and we all know why we can''t go back there." Lucky sighed as when he said ''Silicy'' some eyes trailed towards Ricky who simply ignored them.


    "Then what are you saying, we should just twiddle our thumbs?" Tommy showed a weird expression making Lucky let out a small sigh.


    "I''m just telling you in advance since this will affect all of us." Lucky sighed since this would also be a blow for his profits, at least 56% of it stemmed from prohibition.


    "Affect us? This will derail at least half of our business including yours." Joe pointed at Lucky then at everyone with a calculative gesture.


    He said everyone yet after Lucky, Joe only pointed at Mangano and Gaglino who had an overwhelming majority of their power in the bootlegging sector.


    Ricky didn''t miss this and Lucky sure as hell didn''t either as he did his best to maintain composure.


    "And what about those jews? More specifically Bugsy Siegel, Louis "Lepke" Buchalter, Dutch Schultz, and Abner "Longie" Zwillman." Joe suddenly took the floor as Lucky simply leaned back while the other bosses leaned forward.


    "I mean we let that jew Meyers join the commision as the mob''s accountant, but that was only because Lucky vouched his own life for him." Joe pointed out while leaving out the part about his skills which was able to wash everyone''s money so efficiently, that it actually scared the others that Lucky had such a capable person under him.


    "Those jews are starting to immigrate here from Germany cause of that wacko Hitler and their starting to occupy our streets, our cities, and our homes." Joe had a mad look in his eyes as Ricky started smiling at this behavior knowing what he was leading up to.


    "So what, you want us to kill them?" Ricky suddenly spoke which made Lucky widened his eyes though as being Lucky''s ''Underboss'' he did have the right to weigh in on this time it''s just he couldn''t vote.


    "No, but we need to send a message, a message that states that this is the mafia territory." Joe continued though Ricky shook his head.


    "Then what, they''ll just bow down?" Ricky tilted his head as Joe chuckled at him.


    "Listen kid, it''s not that cut and dry." Joe clarified as Lucky immediately covered his smile.


    "Then why are you making it like that?" Ricky pointed at Joe who suddenly flinched causing the other bosses to raise an eyebrow.


    "Once we send a message, it won''t be just a simple agreement but a war." Ricky spoke from his chest as Lucky proudly looked at him.


    "Do we have the funds and manpower to kill the jews especially with the repeal of the prohibition coming up." Ricky''s words didn''t fall on deaf ears and in fact caused unanimous nods from the rest.


    "The kids right, we shouldn''t go to war with the jews and especially over something so trivial as them immigrating here." Profaci shook his head as Joe simply nodded but before he could raise his mouth to counter it was already too late.


    Ricky had successfully swayed the others into the right state of mind as Joe was going to use this opportunity to weaken the other family''s forces.


    "And we made that ''jew'' our accountant cause he has a brilliant mind and makes it so that we don''t go to jail for tax evasion or at least, the ones that use him." Lucky looked over at Frank who immediately frowned but couldn''t disagree.


    The main thing in this age that put gangsters away wasn''t being caught but in fact, tax evasion.


    However Meyers Lanky was a wizard with the books and accurately hid the mobs money as well as pay the government their fair share, or at least what they needed to see as fair.


    Even Joe, who had just spit on his name, used him in order to hide his family''s money which showed how skilled he really was.


    "There right Banana''s, those jews aren''t even on our level and besides those jews aren''t that bad." Tommy shrugged since he quite liked the fellas after getting to know them.


    "At least they aren''t those negro''s in harlem." Carlo scoffed as the laughs spiraled out of these mafia gangsters'' mouths.


    "Man, I miss those days where I saw an nicely dressed italian in the streets of harlem, it''s really a shame it became littered with them." Profaci sighed as he got some nods of agreement as Ricky wasn''t at all surprised by this anymore.


    Coming from a world where he was used to people throwing a hissy fit even at the mention of another race, it was a sort of culture shock to how open and subtly racist people in the 1930s were.


    In fact, it wasn''t even racist but a way of life for them as they openly discriminated over other groups all the time.


    "Maybe Lucky will go and recruit them!" Joe joked as the others screeched out in laughter as Lucky had a habit of including not just Italians into his family.


    At this point in time, the other gangs wouldn''t even recruit any Italians that weren''t from Sicily much less than africa.


    "Alright, alright, I get it." Lucky smirked as he wasn''t opposed to the idea if he found a talented young man.


    "But we need to seriously consider the possibility that if Roosevelt wins, that prohibition will end with him." Lucky informed the other bosses who all nodded in agreement.


    "Should we stop funding Hoover''s campaign then? It seems like a waste of money." Frank Nitti asked while rubbing his chin.


    Everyone in the room was funding at least one politician with them coming together for the first time to decide collectively who they would support, and all their ideas aligned with Hoover''s campaign, especially regarding prohibition.


    However now that Lucky had seemingly told him that he was going to lose, then why should these gangsters willingly choose to lose money.


    "I think it would be best for the commission to continue funding Hoover''s campaign." Joe B voiced his reason though it was mostly to drain the funding of the other families of even a dime.


    "All in favor?" Lucky suddenly asked however none of the other bosses agreed with Joe who scoffed.


    "Now that settled, are there any other matters that the other mafia heads would care to discuss." Lucky gave the floor though surprisingly Joe didn''t say anything and leaned back.


    "What about that rising fascist in the east, Hitler." Profaci loosened the ring on his finger as the other mafia heads raised their eyebrows.


    "That sissy? He might have adopted Mussolini''s governing but he doesn''t even compare to the threat of him." Vinny scoffed at the very thought that Hitler could be a threat like Mussolini.


    "It''s all that Nazi or whatever they call themselves that those jews are settling in our cities." Carlo sneered while subtly backing up his boss as the other chuckled.


    "Oh come on, he''s just another politician who''s all talk and no bite." Tommy waved in his hand at Profaci who frowned.


    "My birds say otherwise, they say he''s gearing up to put some serious laws in place." Profaci shook his head while nervously moving his ring on his pinky finger.


    One of the reasons that many mafia escaped Italy was due to Mussolini persecution of the mafia so it was already standard that gangsters didn''t inherently condone fascist leaders.


    However Profaci in particular, was incredibly on edge compared to the rest since his older brother was skinned alive on the orders of Mussolini.


    "I''m with Profaci on this one, that Hitler guy seems like he''s wacko enough to actually follow through with his words." Stefano surprisingly agreed with Profaci which even surprised the man himself.


    "If I haven''t seen it all." Joe joked as a couple of giggles ran out.


    "Well, at least they support the lord and savior Jesus christ." Carlo shrugged while kissing the cross necklace around his neck as some nods rang out.


    "And so what if a few jews die why should we care, it''s not like the U.S can draft us." Frank Nitti spoke the truth since the only naturalized citizens were the bosses due to having to own business.


    Most members of their families and even the underbosses were technically immigrants as the only person who needed to be a citizen was the bosses.


    "I don''t know about that." Joe side-eyed Ricky as the mafia members who were laughing suddenly shut their traps.


    "Hey Lucky it''s not like that-"


    "It''s fine." Lucky stopped Vinny who nodded after forgetting Ricky could be drafted in the event of a war.


    "If anything we should be supporting a war since they''d be too drained to stop our operations." Stefano voiced as the others nodded in agreement since a lot of profit can be found in blood.


    "All in favor of supporting the war effort if there ends up being one." Lucky asked only for every single boss''s hands to raise.


    "Then it''s settled."


    The remainder of the meeting was mostly business talks with some of the heads arguing with each other over tedious things such as control on certain blocks, right to move weight in another territory, and mostly arranging deals.


    "Then if there is nothing left then the second meeting of the commission will be adjourned." Lucky spoke as the other bosses nodded while standing up with their underbosses.


    "Nice meeting ya kid." Vinny shook Ricky''s hand while tapping him on the shoulder as Carlo waddled behind him.


    The other bosses said their goodbyes before only four people remained in the meeting room being Lucky, Ricky, Profaci, and Magliocco.


    "So Slick, you''re entering highschool around this age right?" Profaci asked with a smile while tapping his finger on the table as Lucky eyebrow twitched.


    "Yes Mr. Profaci-"


    "You can call me Uncle, we are all like family here so why shouldn''t we act like one." Profaci smiled as Lucky rolled his eyes as Ricky nodded.


    "Yes Uncle, I''m going to Collegiate High School." Ricky answered as Profaci nodded while staring at him deeply.


    "Have you ever been to your home before, Sicily I mean." Profaci asked as a flash appeared in his eyes but Ricky shook his head.


    "Not yet, but I hope to go soon." Ricky slicked his hand through his hair while informing Profaci.


    "Lucky what are you teaching your boy?!" Profaci joked though Lucky frowned at this knowing that he was up to something.


    "I ain''t letting my son go to that fascist country as long as Mussolini is in power." Lucky crossed his arms as Profaci sighed in regret.


    "It is a shame what has happened to Sicily, to Italy!" Profaci shook his head in regret before tapping the table.


    "It''s why we should be as close as ever, now that the mafia has had its leg cut off, we need to make sure we strengthen ourselves here." Profaci spoke passionately though Lucky scoffed.


    "Profaci, tell me why you sent word to me to stay behind earlier before I head back to brooklyn." Lucky gestured to Profaci who frowned but shrugged.


    "My little princess is entering Collegiate High School and I want Slick to look after her." Profaci surprised not only Lucky but his underboss behind him.


    "Maria is going to Collegiate High School?" Lucky spoke out in surprise as Profaci let out a distressed breath.


    "That girl, I swear she''s my weakness, I can''t ever say no to her." Profaci ran his hand through his hair as Lucky nodded his head.


    Maria Profaci was the niece of Joe Profaci and the only daughter of his older brother, the same man that was skinned alive.


    Profaci always blamed himself for what happened to his brother since he was supposed to stay in Sicily to continue their overseas business but he wanted to go to America.


    It was why when Maria became orphaned, Profaci took her in and treated her like his own daughter.


    However Profaci could literally never say no to Maria and ended up spoiling her at every turn which is why Lucky couldn''t find him suspicious.


    "Of course I''ll look after her Uncle." Ricky spoke up before Lucky could which made Profaci light up in a smile.


    "Atta boy, you got a real man over here Lucky." Profaci jumped to his feet to shake Ricky''s hand as he patted his shoulder.


    "I''ll see you around Lucky." Profaci then nodded to Lucky who was still looking at him weary as Magliocco walked behind him.


    Profaci had a little tune to his step while walking out of the meeting room as Lucky had a weird expression plastered across his face.


    "Hey." Lucky looked at Ricky who had now sat back down next to his father.


    "Keep it in your pants, no matter how much of a doll Maria is." Lucky pointed his cane at Ricky while tapping his chest.


    "Oh come on-"


    *Smack*


    "I didn''t finish." Lucky smacked Ricky with his cane though in a playful way so as not to hurt him.


    "That Profaci is a slippery one who is obsessed with blood ties and I''m sure he''s trying to intertwine you with his precious niece, which is weird cause she''s the most precious thing to him and you''re useless." Lucky warned while not forgetting to make fun of his son as Ricky chuckled at this underhanded joke.


    "Do you think I don''t have any self contr-"


    "Yes, I think you have literally zero self control." Lucky stood up while shaking his head.


    "You''re a dumbass with a good instinct and good adaptability, but for god''s sake you cannot for the life of you say no to a bad idea." Lucky limped towards the door as Ricky followed behind him.


    "Whatever pops, I think you might be overestimating Profaci."


    Meanwhile with Profaci,


    "Boss, are you sure about letting the Princess attend a school that isn''t all girls?" Magliocco asked weirdly since Profaci was fiercely protective over her and letting around any boys would require them to be personally vetted.


    "You think I want hooligans around my precious Princess? Of course not, but that Slick is someone who''s gonna be big in the underworld." Profaci rubbed his pinky ring as Magliocco showed a surprised look.


    "Boss he''s just a kid-"


    "A kid who turned the leaders of the five point gang into mush." Profaci side-eyed Magliocco who scoffed at that.


    "Those are just rumors Lucky put out to make-"


    "Brother, they''re real." Profaci used a familial term which made Magliocco shut up instantly in widened eyes as he only used terms like that when he was serious.


    "You''re kidding, right boss?" Magliocco still couldn''t believe it but Profaci shook his head.


    "I got sources who saw the room, god the horror on their faces when they described it." Profaci shivered a little before smirking.


    "Those other bosses are fools for underestimating Lucky including that brat Joe, he''s the real deal and the smartest man I know." Profaci rubbed the pinky ring with more vigor.


    "And for ten years I''ve been trying to tie him down with a woman from our family, yet time and time again he rejected them all." Profaci grimaced as for him to go to this degree showed how much he valued Lucky.


    "That Lucky was so stubborn to let his name die out, until all of sudden he adopts a kid? No shot." Profaci shook his head since he had been constantly doing checks on Ricky.


    "There''s something about that kid and I want my Princess to have the best." Profaci''s words once again shocked Magliocco who subconsciously started paying attention to Ricky at this very moment.


    Eventually, the car pulled up to an enormous mansion and Profaci stepped out before adjusting himself


    Men in suits were planted all across the mansion as they all paid their respects to the boss of their family.


    Profaci stopped at the double doors while adjusting his suit as well as his pinky ring to the perfect spot before grabbing the handle.


    "Honey, Princess, I''m home!" Profaci yelled as the first one to greet him wasn''t his wife but his darling niece.


    "Uncy!" Maria ran out while leaping into Profaci arms as he twirled her around before setting her down.


    "Guess what your favorite Uncle just did for you?" Profaci stroked Maria''s hair as her eyes lit up.


    "You got me a car!" Maria asked but Profaci shook his head with a smile.


    "Even better, what is it that you always tell me you want?" Profaci hinted as Maria started jumping up and down.


    "I CAN GO TO AN ACTUAL HIGHSCHOOL!" Maria screeched in excitement after seeing Profaci confirming with a smile.


    "THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! YOUR THE BEST UNCLE EVER, EVER!" Maria gleefully hugged Profaci whose face brightened up at the praise of his niece as he was puddy in the palm of her hand.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    Profaci''s mood was immediately interrupted as someone knocked on the door as he turned around to open up with a scowl.


    "This better be worth ruining my moment with Princess." Profaci scowled at one of his men who suddenly paled.


    "B-B-Boss, it''s time for Princess scheduled shopping trip." The guard meekly answered as Profaci''s scowl immediately disappeared.


    "Oh, is that so?" Profaci turned to the Princess who nodded with a smile.


    "Here let me give you a little extra." Profaci reached into his suit and took out a money clip filled to the brim with benjamins.


    Licking his thumb, he started counting the bills before taking out twenty big ones and handing it to his darling niece.


    "You have a fun time sweetie." Profaci kissed Princess forehead as she squealed in delight at all the things she could buy.


    "I''m going to buy tweetie a new bird feeder!" Maria cheerfully exclaimed before kissing Profaci on the cheek.


    "Love you Uncy~" Maria happily skipped out of the door as ten bodyguards followed her down the walkway.


    "Love you too Princess~" Profaci waved as the doors closed before he turned around to see his wife holding their infant son.


    "You''re gonna spoil her rotten Joey." Ninfa, Joe Profaci''s wife, shook her head while walking down the spiral staircase.


    "Oh come on sweetikins~" Profaci walked over to his loving wife before giving her a kiss on the cheek as she sighed.


    "Ah, I almost forgot." Profaci reached into his suit before pulling out a fancy box.


    "Joey you didn''t." Ninfa covered her mouth in surprise as Profaci opened the box to reveal two star studded diamonds.


    "Buddy of mine knows a guy who has a cousin in the mining operation in africa." Profaci kissed her cheek while handing them to her as she hugged him.


    "Now, is it so bad to be spoiled rotten?" Profaci grinned as Ninfa rolled her eyes but grabbed his tie while leading you upstairs.


    "No~"

 Chapter 18: First Day

    Chapter 18: First Day


    2 Weeks Later,


    "I can''t believe you got us into this snobby school Slick." Rocco clicked his tongue while gazing out the window at seeing all of New York''s elites dropping off their children.


    Right now, the four of them were chilling in their new Cadillac in the parking lot while waiting for Profaci''s niece.


    "Yeah well, it''s good to make lasting connections even if it is with snobby brats." Jake rubbed his eyes in the driver seat though Edward shook his head while munching on a bagel.


    "At least we get some eye candy." Edward snickered with crumbs of bagel falling on his shirt.


    "You''re right about that Eddy." Ricky spoke as a beautiful woman started walking onto the sidewalk with a stack of papers.


    *Sigh*


    "Slick-and he''s gone." Jake was about to warn him until Ricky already left the car.


    "Ten says she''ll reject him." Bocca side-eyed Edward who shook his head.


    "I ain''t betting against Slick anymore, it''ll only put me more in the hole." Edward sighed as it felt like he was just giving money away when he bet against Slick.


    Jake and Rocco started cackling at this before turning their attention to Ricky running up to the beautiful dame walking towards the school.


    "Excuse me-"


    "Please do not hit on me, you''ll only be disappointed and no, I don''t need help carrying this stack of papers since I''m strong enough to do so on my own." The woman glared at Ricky who didn''t even tense up but simply chuckled.


    "Then I guess you don''t want this pen that you dropped earlier." Ricky waved a ball point pen as the woman''s glare turned into shock.


    "When did I-"


    "Well, I apologize for interrupting you. I guess you don''t want this after all." Ricky shrugged while turning around to walk back to the car as Edward hit the back of Jake''s seat in distress since he should''ve bet.


    "W-Wait student, I apolog-"


    "No, don''t apologize I mean, you''re so strong that you obviously wouldn''t have dropped this pen so I must be confused in the first place." Ricky laughed, turning around and pocketing the pen.


    The woman scrunched her eyebrows but eventually turned to walk towards the class as she swayed her hips ever so slightly.


    "The one time I don''t bet against him, the one time!" Edward sulked while Jake and Rocco shook their heads as their wallets let out a sigh of relief.


    However right before Ricky could cross the street, a black ford pulled up in front of him before the windows slowly rolled down.


    "Uncle?" Ricky asked, taking back his foot since the crosswalk was now wholly occupied by a car.


    "Hey you can''t park here-" The designated crosswalker walked over to the car until the driver rolled down his window.


    "IF YOU DON''T WANT YOUR F*CKING TEETH BUSTED IN, THEN YOU BETTER MIND YA OWN BUSINESS!" The driver loudly proclaimed as some passing students raised an eyebrow at this but continued inside as the crosswalk guard flinched and scampered away.


    "Slick, how are you on this fine morning." Profaci asked as the driver hurriedly got out of his door to open the door for his boss as well as Maria.


    "I''m fine Uncle." Ricky saw Profaci not going in for a handshake but a hug as he reluctantly complied.


    Profaci patted Ricky''s shoulder after releasing him as Profaci gestured behind him as Ricky saw Maria for the first time.


    "This is my darling niece, Maria Profaci."


    ''Woah.''


    The scene was almost cinematic as a beam of sunlight pierced through the window, bathing Ricky in a warm glow.


    Her smile was radiant, each tooth gleaming like tiny pearls, and with a graceful gesture, she tucked a loose curl behind her ear, her fingers momentarily catching the light and creating a mesmerizing dance of shadows and highlights in her dark, curly hair.


    It was a moment frozen in time, a perfect tableau that seemed to capture all of Ricky''s attention before the ends of his smirk turned into a large smile.


    It''s every thread weaving around itself before delicately flailing down all the way down past her shoulders.


    Then in the next second, Ricky found himself in her ocean-blue eyes, marveling at their sharp yet subtle allure.


    His gaze then traveled down her slender frame, taking in her petite yet perky stature as despite her attempts to conceal her curves, her clothes only served to accentuate her delicate hourglass figure.


    "Hi, I''m Maria and it''s a pleasure to meet you." Maria smiled warmly as she looked at Slick who was unapologetically gazing at her entire body.


    "Slick." Slick held out his hand as Maria calmly placed it into his but instead of shaking, he gently led it to his lips before delicately pecking a kiss at the center of the back of her hand.


    *Ding*


    [Mission Received ''Maria Profaci'']


    Difficulty: Hard


    Character Sheet: A


    Description: Although Joe Profaci is inclined for you as a marriage candidate for his cherished niece, he will absolutely chase you to the ends of earth to chop you into little pieces if you actually end up completing this mission without marrying Maria.


    Objective: Impregnant Maria Profaci as you avoid the constant helicopter parenting of the notorious mafia boss Joe Profaci


    Main Mission Reward: 100,000 IP


    Impregnante Maria Once:


    Rewards: 200 Gacha or The choice of Maria''s skills


    Impregnate Maria Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnante Maria in her childhood home(Incomplete)


    Reward: Epic Skill Coupon


    Impregnante Maria before marrying her(Incomplete)


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Impregnate Maria while Joe Profaci is in the vicinity(Incomplete)


    Reward: +10 Vitality


    Bonus Missions:


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    [Do you wish to accept this mission?]


    ''Yes.''


    *Ding*


    "The pleasure is all mine~" Slick spoke as everyone, including Profaci, was shocked at this bold gesture as the two bodyguards in the car immediately reached for their guns.


    "PUAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Profaci let out a maddening laugh while tapping Ricky''s shoulder as Maria shook herself into reality as Ricky released the hand.


    "I can see it, I can see the Sicilian in you no doubt about it!" Profaci hollered as the bodyguard took this sign to release their hands from their guns though they were still confused, especially Maria.


    Literally no man had ever touched Maria and walked away with at least a broken hand and yet before their vision they saw Ricky clearly being praised for his bold attempts.


    Maria was also shocked at her Uncle''s behavior before looking more closely at Ricky since this man must be important to him.


    "Look out for her on my behalf, will you? She''s my precious diamond." Profaci squeezed Ricky''s a little tight showing he wasn''t kidding about this as Ricky nodded.


    "Of course Uncle, I''ll make sure no one messes with her." Ricky smiled as Profaci let out an internal sigh of relief.


    "Good, I''m counting on you Slick." Profaci patted him some more before turning around to Maria who was looking at the school with stars in her eyes.


    "Princess, promise me you''ll stay out of trouble and come find Slick if you''re ever in trouble~" Profaci worriedly spoke as the Princess sighed but nodded before being brought into a hug.


    "I promise Uncy~" Maria hugged Profaci as Ricky winked at her and she unconsciously smiled at him.


    "Jake, Rocco, and Edward stop hiding, come here." Ricky gestured as the three of them were hiding in the bushes before they flinched.


    "Uncle, these are my friends who will be attending the high school with me." Ricky introduced as Profaci looked at the three boys slowly inching forward.


    "Are they in your grade or?" Profaci asked though Ricky shook his head.


    "They are all seniors." Ricky gestured as Profaci nodded with a smile while patting Maria''s shoulder.


    "If any of you lot are in my dear Maria''s class then look for her will ya?" Profaci asked without asking while revealing what grade Maria was in.


    "Y-Y-Yes sir!"


    "Of course sir!


    "YES SIR!"


    Edward was a little louder but they all had good spirits about it which pleased Profaci as he reluctantly got into the car though rolled down the window.


    "Princess if you want to come home just come out and a car will pick you up, alright?" Profaci said while gesturing a car behind them to park which it immediately did.


    "I know uncy~" Maria whined, wanting to leave as Profaci sighed before nodding knowing he was going overboard but it was all for her in the end.


    "I love you!" Profaci spoke as the car started to drive off as Maria smiled and waved back to her uncle.


    "Love you too, Uncy!" Maria hopped a little while saying that which warmed Profaci''s heart.


    "I swear if I could, I''d give that little girl the whole world." Profaci whispered while his driver and the bodyguard smiled at their boss.


    "Now take me down to the docks, it seems we got some loose ends." Profaci''s demeanor immediately became cold as the white of knuckles tensed.


    "Ready for your first day Princess?" Ricky teased Maria a little only for her to roll her eyes while crossing her arms.


    "Only Uncle calls me that and anyways what''s up with Slick, is that your real name?" Maria strutted her hip as Ricky shrugged.


    "It''s just what people call me but since it''s you Maria, call me Ricky." Ricky smiled as Maria giggled while walking forward to the double doors.


    "Then let''s go R-I-C-K-Y~" Maria emphasized Ricky''s name before lightheartedly purring at the end as he walked after her.


    "Oh boy." Jake whispered as both Rocco and Edward let out scared expressions.


    "That''s actually Princess." Edward whispered as they started to follow Ricky and Maria from behind.


    "Do you think it''s true that Profaci killed the first guy to ask her out on a date?" Rocco asked Jake though before he could deny it he thought of something.


    "You know what, I heard he cut off his hand too since he tried to touch her." Jake scratched his chin as Edward gulped.


    "I heard they chopped him into little pieces and fed him to the fishes." Edward whispered as all three of them shivered.


    "Agree to save our body parts and not f*ck with Princess?" Jake looked to the other two who weren''t nearly as brave as Ricky.


    "Agreed."


    "Yep."


    Ricky walked Maria to her first period class as Jake and Edward entered after her since they had the same teacher.


    Ricky waved to Rocco who understood since they would look after Maria as he walked over to his own class before opening the door to see the beautiful woman from earlier writing her name.


    "You''re late, sit down." She pointed towards the front seat as he complied though twirled his new ballpoint pen as he plopped down onto the chair.


    "My name is Ms. Collins and I will be your homeroom teacher for the remainder of your first year at Collegiate High School."


    "For the rest of the year I will be your homeroom teacher." Ms. Collins informed them while gripping her pointer.


    "I am very intolerant of interruptions and will not hesitate to send you to the office if you interrupt my teachings." Ms. Collins side-eyed all the students before squinting when she saw Ricky waving around her ball point pen.


    "Before we start the first lecture, I''ll have everyone introduce themselves and say one thing they enjoy." Ms. Collins pointed before the class started introducing themselves.


    The students were very quick about their introductions while saying relatively the same interest before it reached the front row as she had started in the back.


    Right smack in the middle of the row sat Ricky calmly spinning the pen in his hand while gazing at the ceiling in boredom.


    "Student, please stand up and introduce yourself." Ms. Collins'' authoritarian voice rang out in Ricky''s direction as his eyes turned down to see her beautiful figure which caused a smile.


    WIthout further ado, Ricky showed a cheeky smile and stood up amidst the gaze while still twirling the pen in his hand.


    "My name is Ricky Luciano and my favorite pastime is admiring beauty in its purest form." Ricky laughed out as he looked Ms. Collins right in the eye while announcing it to the class before briskly sitting down.


    "Next." Ms. Collins barely gave Ricky''s comment the time of day as another student stood up.


    Some glances brushed over Ricky, fleeting and uninterested, while others lingered, their gaze deepening as they grasped the weight of his name.


    To most, the mafia families operated in the shadows, their influence largely unrecognized beyond their tightly knit neighborhoods and cities.


    Instead they were whispered about in hushed tones, dismissed as urban legends or exaggerated tales by the wider public, but those in the know understood the truth.


    The government, too, had begun to cast a more vigilant eye on their activities with various agencies turning their focus towards these organized crime syndicates, recognizing the threat they posed to societal order.


    However, the authorities were not alone in their scrutiny as other factions, equally interested in the clandestine dealings of the mafia, monitored their movements with keen interest, each group vying for control or seeking to exploit the situation to their advantage.


    Very wealthy individuals and people of high status knew of or had business deals with the mob as it was a very profitable venture to deal in the underworld.


    In a typical public high school, Ricky might have blended into the background, his presence unremarkable. But these students were far from ordinary.


    A staggering 98% of their parents belonged to the upper echelons of society, setting them apart from the average teenager.


    As Ms. Collins continued her introductions, the rest of the class faded into obscurity. With a brisk stride, she crossed the room to the chalkboard, her purposeful movements signaling the transition to the next topic.


    Her chalk squeaked against the board as she began to write, the sound punctuating the air with a sense of authority and expectation.


    "The first period is history and the first semester will consist of the formation of the United States as well as the most notable founding fathers." Ms. Collins spoke while writing someone on the whiteboard.


    "When looking at the founding fathers, many tend to start at George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin; however we will be starting out with someone who is often overlooked." Ms. Collins carefully set the chalk before pointing her stick at the name she just wrote down.


    "Benedict McCornWick."


    *PFFFFT*


    Ricky started cracking up the second Ms. Collins finished as she immediately scrunched her eyebrows at this complete lack of respect.


    "Is there something funny Mr. Luciano?" Ms. Collins asked while tapping her pointer on her hand.


    Ricky continued to laugh before realizing he was the only one doing so as the other student gave him weird looks.


    "Of course there is." Ricky defended his laughter with zero shame as Ms. Collin''s eyebrow twitched.


    "And would you like to inform the class what that is?" Ms. Collins asked, Ricky shrugging before pointing at the whiteboard.


    "That is the fakest name I''ve ever heard like, I understand the other three but what kind of sorry parents did he have to be named Benedict McCornWick." Ricky pointed out as some snickering started to sound as Ms. Collins gazed at all who did so with a deadly gaze which promptly shut them up.


    "I assure you he is real, Mr. Luciano." Ms. Collins spoke while turning off the light and turning on the projector.


    A projector lit up which required actual pictures which Mr. Collins promptly put on the center of the console before the projector started showing the images.


    "This, Mr. Luciano, is the largest signature on the declaration of independence which so happens to be Benedict''s signature, which is evidently fake from your words." Ms. Collins gazed at Ricky who was actually surprised while squinting his eyes at this picture.


    As much as he tried to deny it, instead of the supposed largest signature being John Adams, the clear signature of ''Benedict McCornWick'' took up half the page.


    "Huh, I guess he is real." Ricky scratched his head since although he wasn''t the biggest history buff, he clearly didn''t remember Benedict nor him being a prominent figure.


    "Well, at least you are one to admit your mistakes." Ms. Collins wasn''t too harsh on Ricky after seeing him genuinely understanding his mistakes and not simply speaking out for a laugh.


    Ms. Collins was a teacher who, in her heart, wanted to teach and help her students succeed so if Ricky geniusly didn''t understand something then she wouldn''t speak ill of him for wanting to learn.


    "Now then let''s continue." Ms. Collins returned to her focus to her teaching as she got the next picture of a man riding a horse.


    "In 1775, Dr. Joseph Warren summoned Paul Revere and gave him the task of riding to Lexington, Massachusetts, with the news that British soldiers stationed in Boston were about to march into the countryside northwest of the town." Ms. Collins spoke as Ricky nodded along with her words.


    While Ricky was aware that his presence could alter the future, he had always believed that the past remained largely unchanged from his understanding.


    However, the mention of this particular character intrigued him. He had no recollection of the individual ever being real or playing a significant role in America''s founding.


    This new information piqued Ricky''s curiosity, prompting him to delve deeper into the history books to uncover the truth behind this mysterious figure.


    "However somewhere around the mystic river did Paul Revere''s horse knock him off and mortally wound him and with only minutes to live."


    Then to Ricky''s shock he saw a picture of something that was completely different from the history he knew.


    Although Ricky was drunk or high throughout college, he was somewhat sober in highschool and remembered some of history which this didn''t include.


    ''What the hell-''


    "Paul Revere, with only moments to live, called over a wandering mercenary and begged him in his dying breath to warn the sons of liberty of the Britishes movements." Ms. Collins continued as the next image was shown.


    "Benedict took up the act and rode the horse to Lexington; however another dire situation would commence due to the sudden death of Paul Revere." Ms. Collins passionately spoke on the topic while pointing to the image of a man turning back on his horse.


    "Now, Dr. Joseph Warren didn''t just summon Paul Revere but also William Dawes as he traveled through the longer route; however when came across Revere''s body, William misinterpreted the situation." Ms. Collins continued her lecture, projecting an image onto the screen behind her.


    However, as her gaze shifted to Hancock and Adams in the image, she paused, highlighting their skeptical expressions.


    "When Dawes saw his friend had fallen, he retreated back in fear of being too late so that he could inform Dr. Warren."


    "So when Benedict warned everyone the British were coming, no one believed him as well as the other two founding fathers John Hancok and John Adams." Ms. Collins informed while showing another image.


    "Although John Hancock was willing to listen, John Adams didn''t believe Benedict and turned him away." Ms. Collins walked to where the projector was being displayed while pointing to one man standing in front of 700.


    "When seven hundred British regulars marched down to Lexington, the townspeople as well as both John''s became panicked while the minutemen in the town scrambled to ready themselves."


    "The British regulars used this chance to set up and fire upon the town while killing twenty 26 civilians and eight flustered minutemen, yet the one who didn''t falter was the man who had nothing to do with the war, Benedict McCornWick." Ms. Collins pointed at the small drawn figure of Benedict grabbed a bannonet.


    "Seeing the chaos unfold due to their attack, the British regulars sought to move in but by some tactical genius, were held off by this lone man that would make himself one of America''s first generals." Ms. Collins walked over to the projector and put on another slide before showing another picture of Benedict rallying the townspeople.


    "It is debated even to this day on what made Benedict stay and fight a seemingly losing battle, however many contribute this to the guilt of killing the real messenger but in the end, he stayed."


    "Benedict rallied not just the scrambling minutemen, but even the regular townspeople as he is quoted in that moment to have said ''Men, Women, Children, it does not matter what form you hold nor does it matter where you were conceived since in this moment, this very moment, you are American if you bear your arms!''." Ms. Collins passionately spoke as her enthusiasm started to motivate the teenager except Ricky who was gazing at this weirdly.


    "The seemingly lost battle sparked the first win to many in the revolutionary war as Benedict is credited to have saved the American dream we hold today." Ms. Collins turned on the light while turning off the projector.


    "Over the next two weeks you will be learning about all of Benedict''s ventures before you will be assigned an essay to write about all his deeds and your opinion on his feats." Ms. Collins pointed to them all as they sighed.


    For the next two hours, Ms. Collins taught about the history of Benedict McCornWick before transitioning into math.


    *RING*


    "That is the lunch bell everyone, I''ll see you in 45 minutes." Ms. Collins instructed as all the students sat up to leave with one remaining seated.


    "Mr. Luciano?" Ms. Collins waved to the thinking Ricky as she showed a worried gaze.


    Although Ms. Collins initially didn''t have the most favorable first impression of Ricky, she realized she had misjudged him as he asked multiple detailed questions throughout her history lecture and demonstrated a genuine interest in the subject.


    However in reality, Ricky was just confused about this individual who seemed so prominent while even being mentioned in regard to George Washington though he still had never heard of him.


    "Ah, sorry I was lost in thought." Ricky realized everyone had left before grabbing his bag before flinging it on his back.


    "Ms. Collins, if Benedict was as influential as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin why haven''t I heard of him?" Ricky asked as Ms. Collins chuckled before grabbing her purse.


    "Have you ever seen a two dollar bill before?" Ms. Collins asked before taking out one and handing it to Ricky.


    "You see, although we haven''t gotten to that part of history, Benedict unfortunately died a year after America was established and didn''t enter politics unlike his compatriots." Ms. Collin sighed in regret.


    "In fact, his best friend at the time George Washington, desperately tried to convince him to take any other position rather than General but Benedict was thoroughly unimpressed by the roles of power." Ms. Collins pointed as Ricky gazed at the two dollar bill that should''ve had John Adams on it before he handed it back to her.


    "It is a shame as well since the public seemingly begged him to be the first president however Benedict never batted an eye unlike George who reluctantly took up the mantle." Ms. Collins put her purse on the chair before walking over to a book as she strolled back over to Ricky.


    "After his death, in grief, all the founding fathers contributed stories of their ventures with Benedict before George Washington personally put them all together into a book, this is a copy of it." Ms. Collins smiled as Ricky weirdly took it.


    "Now you should head off to lunch." Ms. Collins smiled for the first time after thinking she had successfully influenced another student as he slowly walked out of the room.


    "I could''ve sworn I''ve never heard of-you know what, who cares." Ricky was about to kick himself until he suddenly stopped harping on it.


    At that moment Ricky shook his head since constantly worrying about this was stupid since history was bound to change with his appearance so why care about a previous twist.


    ''Whoever that guy was, he''s dead now so it doesn''t matter either way.''


    Meanwhile south of Mexico,


    In the cold night of desert country, it wasn''t lamps that illuminated the night but torches and pitchforks as those holding it screamed for blood.


    "THIS WAY, SHE HAD TO HAVE GONE THIS WAY!" A man screeched in Spanish as a woman limped desperately around a corner.


    The blood loss seemingly caused her appearance to distort her figure before it slowly started to morph into someone completely different.


    A striking and enigmatic figure slowly started to reappear which showcased her bright blue skin, a scaly texture, relating to that of a reptilian appearance though it was her eyes that stood out the most, yellow with narrow slitted pupils adding to her already exotic look.


    As she fled through the dimly lit streets, the woman clutched her side, feeling the warm stickiness of blood seeping through her fingers.


    The wound, a deep gash from a blade wielded by one of the fanatics, throbbed with each panicked heartbeat.


    The mob behind her was relentless, fueled by their fervent belief that mutants like her were abominations that needed to be purged. The girl knew she couldn''t outrun them for long, not in her current state.


    However she didn''t need to as she finally turned one last corner to see a hotel with a brick wall stacked around it in defense, unlike the other dilapidated surroundings this one was grandiose in its nature.


    Desperation set in as she spotted the neon glow of the hotel ahead, biting her lip as she broke out into a full blown sprint.


    She pushed herself harder, her breath coming in ragged gasps, her muscles protesting with each step.


    Until she finally lunged onto the steps as her conciseness faded, her eyes twitching shut as the hungry mob finally revealed themselves.


    "THERE SHE IS-" A man screamed out only for his eyes to register where exactly she ended up.


    *Click*


    The door clicked open as a man dressed in pristine attire showed himself before looking down with a frown.


    *Sigh*


    Immediately, the man sighed upon seeing a familiar gold coin in her hands as he took the coin, inspected it, and finally nodded.


    The mob was deathly scared as when the man looked up, the entire crowd immediately started to disperse in fear before he motioned to the side as some attendants ran out to get the woman up.


    "Welcome Raven, I hope you enjoy your stay at the Continental."

 Chapter 19: Escalated Mess

    Chapter 19: Escalated Mess


    *Bam*


    "Look guys, they are just giving away this food for free!" Edward slammed his tray onto the table, drool forming at the corners of his mouth as he ogled the mountain of food he had piled on from the cafeteria''s self-serve station.


    Ricky and Jake exchanged a glance, their eyebrows shooting up in unison at the sight of the heaping mound of food on his tray.


    Evidently, the school had three lunch periods, each with students from all grades sorted into categories A, B, and C.


    Coincidentally, Ricky, Tyler, and Maria were all assigned to category B. This arrangement was entirely random as well and not deliberately manipulated in the least.


    *Bam*


    "This place gotta to be heaven!" Rocco slammed his tray onto the towering pyramid of food, standing resolute next to Edward''s own amalgamation.


    "It ain''t that big of a deal." Jake shook his head, his smile contradicting the gesture as he munched on a French fry carefully picked out of his own tower.


    "This is enough to feed my siblings-huh?" Rocco''s protest halted as his eyes fixed on the envelope sliding across the table.


    Ricky''s eyebrow arched as he glanced down at the envelope stopping beneath his finger, his exact name, ''Ricky Lucino'' printed in bold black letters on the front.


    Gazing yp and to the side, all he saw was teenagers shuffling back and forth as none of the four clearly saw the one who slid the letter.


    "Ha, don''t tell me someones trying to josh US." Edward scoffed while eating some of his onion rings, shaking his head.


    "Do they not know our profession is bashing heads in?" Rocco joined in while looking around though no eyes were staring at them.


    "Only one way to find out if this is a joke or not." Ricky spoke without hesitation as he opened the letter before pulling out a pitch black paper.


    "What the." Jake said as Ricky unfolded the black paper, the back of it had an image painted in white as it menacingly stared at him.


    A skull and bones.


    Dear Ricky Luciano,


    You have been cordially invited to participate in an organization that prides itself on picking only those who stand above the rest. If you wish to pass on this gradious opportunity you may simply rip the piece of paper and throw it away, however if you are intrigued. Please burn the letter after reading so that we may take it as a sign you are at least interested in something bigger than yourself.


    Handler 56495


    "Jake, lighter." Ricky held out his hand as an intrigued gaze flickered amongst his green pupils as a lighter was set on his palm.


    "What did the letter say, Slick?" Jake asked as Ricky opened up the lighter and flicked his thumb to spark a small fire.


    "Something about joining a club and it wouldn''t be fun if I simply disregarded it." Ricky smiled as he placed the flame below the paper.


    Almost instantly, the orange flame caught the piece of paper as it immediately started to devour the combustible black paper.


    In an instant, the paper appeared to transform into blue light, the once vibrant orange now a deep shade of blue.


    The transformation spread rapidly, greedily consuming every last bit of the paper until nothing remained but a faint glow of a blue hue lingering in the air.


    "Woah~" Rocco''s eyes lit up at the display of the paper being turned into blue as smiles persisted on the faces of unknown individuals.


    "Are you deaf or something? I said no!" A familiar voice suddenly sounded out as four heads who recognized it turned to the side.


    There, amidst the other gathering gazes, stood Maria fuming while holding a tray with a single salad; however what stood out was the arm on her forearm.


    "Uh oh." Jake whispered as Ricky stood up before turning his head to three.


    "Get my back, alright?" Ricky asked though didn''t wait for the three responses.


    The three of Jake, Rocco, and Edward looked at each other before nodding and standing up.


    "Oh come on doll, humor me for a-" A guy smiled, gazing back at his friends egging him on to get the new girls number.


    "Do I look like Raggedy Ann? Then get your hand off of me before you get hurt!" Maria spoke for the guy''s safety yet he didn''t care and leaned in closer.


    "Hurt, me?" The guy laughed, gazing at his friends behind him that only seemed to encourage his behavior.


    "Don''t be like that." He sleazy whispered, Maria incredibly uncomfortable but he tightened his grip along her thin wrist making her unable to escape.


    "C''mon darling, just give me-"


    *BAM*


    Without warning, eyes widened at the sudden sight of the man who had just moments ago been on his feet, now knocked onto his backside by a closed fist.


    Reacting quickly, Ricky grabbed hold of Maria to prevent her from falling as the man slid across the floor, coming to a stop some distance away.


    In all honesty, Ricky had no choice since a random guy flirting with Maria was one thing, but actually laying his hands on her meant he had to prove to Profaci that he was taking action.


    "Y-You punched me!" The guy was mortified, clutching his reddened cheek since this was the first time he''d ever been punched.


    "Do you even know who you put your hands on?" Ricky was a little baffled though the guy scoffed while staggering to his feet.


    "Who is she? Do you even know I am!" The guy asked, a little baffled at the greaser before him as Ricky rolled his eyes.


    ''Great.'' Ricky sighed internally, knowing that one of the inevitable side effects of attending this school was eventually running into a snot-nosed trust fund kid.


    "I''m Tyler Richards, son of Billy Richards, the man who owns half of the Cadillac dealerships in the area!" Tyler roared as he pointed at Ricky who moved the now sacred Maria behind him.


    "Listen brat-"


    "Brat, BRAT, how dare a greasy italian even look down at me in a metaphorical sense!" Tyler accused, Ricky scrunching his brows before raising them at the latter half of his insult.


    "Oh my apologies, were you taken aback by such a big word?" Tyler laughed out, frustrated that he was not only easily rejected but punched in the face.


    Ricky froze at this moment, gazing at the sneering Tyler with a dumbfounded expression before letting out a sigh.


    Stretching, he started cracking his fingers yet Tyler continued to mouth off to show off in front of his friends.


    Incredibly embarrassed and with a fuming amount of ego running through his mind, Tyler didn''t even try to hide his hatefulness towards Ricky and escalated it even further.


    "But it doesn''t matter, I''ll make sure you get kicked out of this school so you can keep that harlot, I hope that b*tch was worth it." Tyler sneered while turning around as Ricky started laughing causing him to scrunch his brows.


    The entire cafeteria was tuned in at the point, some leaving, and others staying for the festivities of the upcoming argument as Ricky''s laughing figure was on full display.


    "What''s so funny bumpkin?" Tyler scoffed towards Ricky who started taking off his leather jacket which hid his uniform.


    Ricky was already planning to punch Tyler again for calling him a "greasy Italian," but after Tyler disrespected Maria not just in front of him but in front of the entire cafeteria, he knew this beating was mandatory.


    "Honest to god, did you think that you could say all of that and not get your ass kicked?" Ricky genuinely asked, turning back to Maria and handing the clearly distraught girl his jacket.


    "Hold onto this for me while I beat the living piss out of him, alright?" Ricky smiled at her in a soothing voice which seemed to calm Maria who meekly nodded.


    The poor girl was so full of excitement and hope on her first day in a boys and girls school, romanising it in her head only for it all to come crashing down with the arrival of Tyler.


    It wasn''t only during lunch, but Tyler had also been incessantly trying to talk to her throughout the day and wasn''t satisfied by the passing responses given to him by Maria.


    "Is this your little gang?" Tyler laughed as three men walked behind Ricky as he waved his hand.


    "Boys." Tyler called out as twelve guys around the ages of 16 to 18 stood up with letterman jackets.


    "If you get on your knees and apologize then I MIGHT just forgive you." Tyler walked up to Ricky, locking eyes with him, his smile transforming into a deadly grin.


    "Come on, beg like the little greasy rat-"


    *BAM*


    Ricky''s eyebrow twitched as he cut off Tyler''s next words, driving his forehead into Tyler''s nose with a sickening thud.


    The impact was immediate, blood spraying out from Tyler''s nose in a crimson arc, staining the air with the metallic scent of blood.


    Before Tyler could even register the pain, Ricky seized his blue tie in a vice-like grip, yanking him back with a forceful jerk.


    The sudden movement caught Tyler off guard, causing him to stumble forward, his eyes wide with shock and pain.


    The room seemed to hold its breath, the tension thick and heavy as Ricky stood over Tyler, his expression fierce and unrelenting.


    *BAM*


    Ricky thrusted his fist into Tyler''s boney face once more, this time blood splattering from his mouth as some of his teeth cut Ricky''s knuckles.


    "GET HIM!" One of the football players yelled as the twelve members rushed forward as the three lying in wait behind Ricky rushed forward.


    "AHHHHH!" Edward ramped up his speed as he lunged his entire body into the crowd while knocking down two and causing three to slightly lose their balance.


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    Rocco''s fists flew wildly, each punch delivered with a malevolent smile that seemed to revel in the violence.


    With each strike, he seemed to grow more energized, more invigorated by the chaos around him.


    After dealing with his immediate target, Rocco swiftly turned his attention to any nearby individuals, his eyes scanning for his next victim.


    His movements were fluid and practiced, his punches landing with brutal efficiency as the sounds of impact echoed through the room, mingling with grunts of pain and the shuffle of feet as others tried to evade his wrath.


    Rocco''s smile never faltered, a stark contrast to the havoc he was wreaking upon those around him.


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    Jake took a more strategic approach, his movements calculated and deliberate. He bobbed and weaved with finesse, avoiding incoming strikes with ease.


    Unlike Rocco''s wild aggression, Jake waited for the opportune moment to strike, looking for openings in his opponent''s defense.


    When the opportunity presented itself, Jake struck with precision, delivering quick and decisive blows.


    His attacks were measured and controlled, each strike aimed at incapacitating his opponent efficiently.


    Despite his more strategic approach, Jake''s blows were no less impactful, each one landing with calculated force.


    "SWTOP~ PWEA-"


    *BAM*


    *SPLAT*


    *BAM*


    *SPLAT*


    *BAM*


    *SPLAT*


    Tyler had already been beaten to a pulp, his face a swollen, bloody mess but for Ricky, it still didn''t seem enough.


    A ruthless urge, deeply implanted within his very blood began to bloom, driving his fists to continue their assault on Tyler''s face as he started to smile.


    With relentless determination, Ricky''s fists hammered into Tyler''s already battered visage, a relentless barrage of lefts and rights.


    Each blow landed with sickening thuds, the sound of bone meeting flesh echoing through the room.


    Ricky seemed almost possessed, his eyes glazed over with a mixture of anger and satisfaction as he continued to rain down blows upon Tyler.


    As the assault persisted, Tyler''s state deteriorated rapidly as his once recognizable features were now nothing but a bloody, mangled mess.


    "ARGH!" Rocco let out a grunt as a guy had put him in a full nelson while another laid punch after punch into his abdomen.


    Ricky snapped out of his trance, his fist and chest now covered in Tyler''s blood as he gazed down at Tyler, who was barely breathing, his consciousness having faded moments ago, leaving him in a twitching state.


    ''That was weird.'' Ricky released Tyler''s collar and quickly shifted his focus.


    He rushed over to Rocco, determined to support his friend as Rocco had supported him.


    With a burst of energy, Ricky tackled the guy who was attacking Rocco, using the element of surprise to his advantage.


    He bashed the back of his head into the assailant''s face, causing the man to loosen his grip.


    Seizing the opportunity, Rocco spun around, grabbing the man''s hair and yanking his head down violently.


    With a swift and brutal motion, Rocco brought his knee up, smashing it into the man''s face with the force of the blow leaving the attacker reeling, giving Rocco the upper hand once more.


    *BAM*


    *SPLAT*


    Blood splashed onto Rocco''s jeans however he didn''t flinch as he tossed the now unconscious guy to the side before rushing back into the fray of the fight.


    The four of them were merciless and seasoned in street fights, their experience evident as the eight-man advantage slowly morphed into a bloody disadvantage for their opponents.


    Ricky exploited their lack of coordination, skillfully isolating and taking them down one by one.


    Meanwhile, Jake, Edward, and Rocco, working instinctively, mirrored his actions, systematically dismantling their opponents.


    The floor became a battlefield, scarlet staining the tiles as the sounds of agonized groans echoed through the lunchroom.


    With brutal efficiency, the four friends overpowered their opponents, leaving thirteen men sprawled on the ground, defeated and groaning in pain.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    "We''re so f*cked." Jake whispered while rubbing the bruise on his cheek, realizing they had all definitely gone too far.


    "Ugh, my stomach." Rocco held his stomach in agony, lifting up his shirt to reveal the countless blue marks forming.


    Edward, though not severely injured, had overextended his shoulder as he began rotating it, trying to soothe the discomfort.


    Ricky, on the other hand, wiped his chin where a drop of blood had formed, his gaze then shifting to his ruined uniform.


    ''What the hell was that just now.'' Ricky thought, knowing he wouldn''t pull his punches for some snot filled trust fund kids, but at some point everything became a blur which never happens.


    "WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS!" The principal rushed into the dining hall only to see the horrifying sight of thirteen young men beaten to a brutal pulp.


    "ALL FOUR OF YOU, MY OFFICE, NOW!" The principal screeched as the four of them sighed but complied though Ricky didn''t immediately follow but walked to Maria.


    "You okay?" Ricky tentatively asked as Maria flinched before shaking her head in a daze.


    "I-I''m fine." Maria muttered while looking at the ground though not in disgust but simply couldn''t look him in the eye with all the blood staining his clothes.


    However even if she felt uncomfortable, she was still appreciative that had kept his word to look after her which unknowingly made her smile.


    "Um Maria?" Ricky asked, Maria flinching but forcing herself to face his green eyes.


    ''Don''t be rude Maria, he did what uncy told him to do.'' Maria spoke to herself, trying to be fierce in front of him.


    "Yes Ricky?" Maria asked while raising her gaze to meet him, this moment eerily similar to all the ones in her romantic novels.


    "Can I have my jacket back?" Ricky chuckled, pointing to Maria still instinctively clutching his jacket in her embrace.


    "O-Oh right!" Maria''s face flushed red in embarrassment, her thoughts shattering before shoving it back into his hold.


    "Then stay out of trouble until I get back, Princess~" Ricky teased the last part while putting his greaser jacket on while catching up with the three of Jake, Rocco, and Edward.


    1 hour later,


    *BAM*


    &&


    "RICKY LUCIANO ARE YOU A F*CKING RETARD!" Lucky roared, his anger palpable as he didn''t use Ricky''s nickname but actual name showing how grave this situation truly was.


    "F*ck~" Ricky whispered under his breath while immediately standing up from his seat in front of the principal.


    "Pops, in my defense-"


    *SLAP*


    "SHUT THE F*CK UP AND SIT BACK DOWN!" Lucky slapped Ricky''s across the face while shouting at him as Ricky grimaced but complied, knowing that without context this situation looks incredibly one-sided.


    "And you three!" Lucky pointed at the three petrified boys sitting next to him.


    "Your parents and guardians will deal with you~" Lucky hissed, though that punishment made them pale as if their souls were snatched from their very being.


    "Mr. Luciano I can tell you are upset but may we please refrain from violence-I mean can we talk about what happened?" The principal was about to reprimand Lucky until he saw his deadly glare which immediately made him speak in a more polite tone.


    "Fine but make it quick, Ricky has an appointment with my foot being shoved up his ass!" Lucky raised his ivory cane as Ricky immediately covered his head expecting him to hit him with it.


    "MR. LUCIANO!" The Principal worriedly called out for Ricky''s safety as Lucky halted his assault and scoffed before placing it back down.


    *Ahem*


    "Then let''s get down to the accident shall we?" The Principal announced while adjusting his tie.


    "We''ve only spoken through letters but I shall introduce myself, I am Principal Burres and I''ve been the principal at this establishment for over fifteen years." Principal Burres introduced before pointing to the side.


    "Right next to me is a staff member in our facility, Mr. Timsworth." Principal Burres pointed to Mr. Timsworth who tipped his fedora towards him.


    "Evening Mr. Luciano." Mr. Timsworth politely greeted Lucky as the latter scoffed while raising his hands.


    "Are we going to get down to the sauce or did you f*cking bring me down here to waste my goddamn time!" Lucky yelled as these formalities were pissing him off, making Principal Burres nervously adjusted himself again.


    "Y-Yes, Mr. Timesworth please highlight what you saw." Principal Burres pointed as Mr. Timsworth nodded and walked a bit forward.


    "At lunch, I saw Ricky here suddenly grab that poor boy Tyler Richards and beat him to a bloody pulp." Mr. Timsworth let out a regretful expression as the four teenagers became gobsmacked at this explanation.


    "THAT-" Rocco tried to explain but when he was about to stand up, Lucky pushed him back down into the chair


    "Quiet." Lucky whispered as he immediately smelled something fishy but wanted to hear this teacher''s whole story first.


    *Cough*


    "Like I was saying, Ricky started beating on Billy''s old boy and when his friends tried to stop him, the three of them started to attack half of our football team." Mr. Timsworth shook his head in despair as Principal Burres sadly nodded his head.


    Ricky, Jake, Edward, and Rocco all scoffed or rolled their eyes at this horrible explanation of what happened but remained quiet.


    "Mr. Luciano this a serious matter we have on our hands here, thirteen of our students are now in the hospt-"


    "Wait, wait, wait." Lucky held out his hand as the principal curiously stopped talking while watching Lucky message his forehead.


    "So your saying that not only did my boy beat the cracker jacks out of a random kid for no reason, but these three also joined in, also for no reason?" Lucky was baffled at this fact, the principal nodding while understanding his confusion.


    "Yes and-"


    "Are you retarded or something?" Lucky genuinely asked as both Mr. Timsworth and Principal Burres froze in shock.


    "Slick, I''m seriously asking this but are they really retarted or something cause I genuinely can''t tell?" Lucky looked at Ricky who started dying of laughter with the three of his friends joining in.


    "I-I beg your pardon mr. Luciano!" Principal Burres stood up in shock and disgust at his serious statement.


    "Ain''t no one, NO ONE, in the Luciano just do anything for ''no reason'' everyone in my family always gets just cause." Lucky looked at Principal Burres in contempt while shaking his hand.


    *Snap*


    *Snap*


    "Slick, why the hell did you beat the snot out of that boy?" Lucky snapped his finger towards Ricky who smirked while staring Principal Burres right in the eye.


    "That ''poor Billy''s boy'' not only laid hands on Maria but called her a harlot and b*tch too, I had to defend her like Uncle insisted." Ricky spoke words that made Princepal Burres scoff in contempt.


    "Tyler Richards would never do such a thing-Mr. Luciano?" Principal Burres turned towards Lucky only to see him frozen in shock.


    Paling by the second, he grabbed his mouth while breaking into a deep sweat and intently gazed at Ricky.


    "Ricky don''t josh me, are you serious?" Lucky spoke in a deadly tone and Ricky nodded his head in confusion.


    "Pops, I wouldn''t joke about something this serious." Ricky shook his head knowing that poor Tyler was going to suffer a fate worse than death.


    In fact, as ruthless as it sounds, Ricky had beat up Tyler out of necessity and although he went a tinge overboard, the kid needed to be bashed in the face.


    He knew that if he didn''t, Profaci would do something far worse and Ricky had heard some of the horror stories of Profaci''s victims, with the least severe punishment involved cutting off a hand.


    Beating Tyler senseless was a brutal but calculated decision to save him from a far more gruesome fate, is what Ricky would say in the future if persecuted.


    "Dear god." Lucky held his forehead in distress as even Principal Burres became worried.


    "M-Mr. Luciano you can''t really believe-"


    "Do you know what is about to happen, that boy-"


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    Lucky''s head jerked behind him as terrified screams rang out causing everyone who was sitting in the office to get to their feet.


    "DAMMIT!" Lucky cursed as his eyes became furious before turning towards the shocked Principal Burres.


    "DO YOU KNOW HOW SERIOUS THIS SITUATION IS! NO ONE ESCAPES PROFACI''S WRAITH IF THEY TOUCH HIS PRINCESS-"


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    "WHERE IS HE! WHERE IS THE DEADMAN WHO TOUCHED MY PRINCESS!" Profaci roared as two gunshots were fired in the distance, causing Lucky to bolt out of the office.


    Principal Burres and Mr. Timsworth ducked, dropping to the floor before Principal Burres peaked his head over the desk to see the sighing four.


    "W-What is happening!" Principal Burres demanded towards the four who were now gazing at him in contempt.


    "Isn''t it obvious? You chose to defend the wrong side and now you''re going to pay for it." Ricky scoffed, slowly standing up as sweat started to form on his forehead.


    "W-What do you mean-"


    "Hey baldy, he''s saying that you chose the wrong side what''s so hard to understand!" Rocco, already angry at this situation, yelled at Principal Burres.


    "What my friends mean Principal Burres, is that you''ll be lucky to get out of this predicament with only a slap of a wrist." Jake sighed, standing up as well to follow Ricky as they slowly walked out of the door.


    "Not just you, but both of you are totally f*cked." Edward snickered while closing the door behind him.


    Mr. Timsworth and Principal Burres looked at each other before immediately bolting out of the door to see the disturbance.


    "JOEY, JOEY JUST CALM DOWN-"


    "CALM DOWN, LOOK AT THIS!" Profaci pointed to the crying Maria in his arms.


    *Sniff*


    *Sniff*


    *Hic*


    "I tried to tell them Uncy but they wouldn''t listen to me, they called me a liar~" Maria sobbed as Profaci''s face, already red in anger, turned a whole new shade darker as all his eyes saw were scarlet.


    5 minutes ago,


    "RICKY DIDN''T DO ANYTHING WRONG YOU''RE NOT LISTENING TO ME!" Maria stomped in place at a teacher sighing in contempt before her, shaking his head at her story.


    This was a third-year teacher named Mr. Elliot, who never even tried to understand Maria''s side of the story nor gave her the time of day.


    "Listen girly, I don''t know what kind of dramatic play you spouted to your thug friends but Tyler wouldn''t do all that, he''s a good kid." Mr. Elliot sighed, thinking Maria was lying or making it all up.


    "I''M NOT LYING-"


    "Mr. Elliot, what is the meaning of this?" Ms. Collins walked over to the interaction that was causing a crowd to form.


    "Ah Ms. Collins, can you tell Maria, broad to broad, that fibbing about something like this isn''t right." Mr. Elliot pointed at the clearly distressed Maria as Ms. Collins hurriedly walked over to the crying young girl.


    "Honey it''s ok." Ms. Collins quickly took Maria into her arms while caressing her hair.


    *Sniff*


    *Sniff*


    "Now tell me what really happened, ok?" Ms. Collins pulled her apart to listen to her side as Maria rubbed her eyes and nodded.


    "He-"


    *BAM*


    "PRINCESS, WHERE IS MY PRINCESS!" Profaci burst open the doors with a handful of mobsters following him.


    "Uncy~" Maria released herself from Ms. Collins, rushing towards Profaci who''s heart sank at seeing the thing that no father wanted to ever see.


    Their daughter, in tears.


    Maria rushed to hug Profaci who immediately started cooing her while putting his everything into calming her down.


    "Princess, tell me what happened and who put you in this state." Profaci grabbed Maria''s face which still had tears running down them as she sobbed while pointing at Mr. Elliot.


    "Profaci? Joe Profaci." Ms. Collins whispered in a deadly tone, her eyes shrinking after recognizing that name while instinctively taking a step back in fear.


    "I-I-I-I was getting my lunch a-a-a-a-and then this guy named Tyler R-R-R-Richards grabbed m-m-m-m-me-" Maria stuttered while saying what happened in a sobbing tone.


    Profaci''s face went from horrified to livid in the matter of a millisecond as even the mobster behind him felt bad for what was about to happen, already cocking their pistols.


    "HE WHAT!!!!!" Profaci screamed in anger as Maria nodded.


    "T-T-Then R-R-R-Ricky came t-t-t-t-to help a-a-a-and then he called me a HARLOT and Ricky punched him-" Maria let out a whine filled stutter, burying her head into Profaci''s chest as the man let out a ragged breath.


    "T-T-T-Then Ricky beat him up and his friends, but w-w-w-when I tried to tell Mr. Elliot what h-h-happened, he called me a liar!" Maria said while buried in Profaci''s chest as the notorious mobster erupted with intense killing intent, with every ounce of it directed at Mr. Elliot who was sweating profusely.


    "Sir you can''t really believe-"


    "Break his legs, I don''t want him ever to walk again for calling my Princess a liar." Profaci pointed, giving a horrifying order without batting an eye as five men walked over to Mr. Elliot with one carrying a bat.


    "W-Wait stop!" Mr. Elliot tried to struggle but it was no use as they pinned him down.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    Present Time,


    "JOEY, JOEY JUST WAIT!" Lucky yelled though Profaci was going crazy while holding a couple students hostage.


    "WAIT, HOW CAN I WAIT AFTER SEEING MY DARLING MARIA CRYING!" Profaci yelled hysterically as Ms. Collins tried to cover the students.


    "My legs~" Mr. Elliot sobbed in pain as his legs were bent in angles that shouldn''t be possible for a regular human.


    "Mr. Profaci I know you''re in pain-" Ms. Collins tried to calm down, her entire body shaking in complete fear.


    "PAIN! MUFFIN, YOU AIN''T EVER SEEN REAL PAIN!" Profaci''s words left the proud Ms. Collins, shivering in despair as she had family in Long Island and knew the tragedy''s this man caused on a daily basis.


    Especially all the stories of men, young and old, leading horrible painful lives after dealing with his princess but Ms. Collins would''ve never expected for her to come to their school.


    "Whoa~" Edward immediately raised his hands after seeing fifteen mobsters surrounding the students in the cafeteria as well as Profaci pointing a gun directly at weeping Mr. Elliot.


    "Uncy don''t be mean to her, she was the only one who tried to listen to me~" Maria whined as Profaci immediately simmered down when looking at Ms. Collins.


    Taking a deep breath, the veins of rage settled down as he sought to regain his calm deminor.


    "Where''s Ricky?" Profaci seethed as Ricky strolled into his eyesight with a smile.


    "Here Uncle." Ricky waved as Profaci squinted his eyes before looking at the puddles of blood littering the floor.


    "You beat that boy up good right?" Profaci asked in a menacing tone and Lucky''s anxious eyes immediately turned to the calm Ricky.


    "Til he was barely breathing." Ricky assured Profaci who took ragged breath before surprisingly calming down.


    "Who else didn''t believe my princess." Profaci asked and Ricky smiled widely before pointing to the Principal and Mr. Timsworth.


    "Those two called Maria a liar and me a no good thug." Ricky fibbed the last part as Profaci gestured his hands towards them as the men stopped surrounding the student and walked over to the two.


    "W-WHAT ARE YOU DOING, GET YOUR HANDS OFF OF ME I''M THE PRINCIPAL!" Principal Burres yelled but the gangster that forcefully pushed him away all chuckled.


    "Not for much longer." One sneered while also pushing the petrified Mr. Timsworth.


    "Take care of Maira while I go ''lecture'' these teachers on how to do their jobs." Profaci guided Maria over to Ricky before bending down.


    "Princess don''t worry, I''m going to make sure that everyone knows that you''re not a liar so don''t cry, ok?" Profaci took Maria''s hand as the sobbing girl nodded.


    "Ok~" Maria nodded as Profaci released her hands to make good of his promise.


    "Lucky, if you clean this up I''ll owe you a favor." Profaci side-eyed him as Lucky''s eyes lit up.


    "No problem Joey." Lucky twirled his cane, letting out a sigh of relief as Profaci nodded before turning the corner.


    "Aye doll, you''re their teacher right?" Lucky pointed his cane at Ms. Collins who nodded slowly.


    "Then you best instruct your students on how to keep their mouths closed cause I got eyes and ears everywhere, comprende?" Lucky spoke while pointing his cain at the other students who were pale in freight.


    "Slick, escort them out while I go find the new Principal." Lucky ordered Ricky who nodded while putting his jacket over the still crying Maria.


    "Everyone who doesn''t want to get beaten follow me." Ricky gestured while guiding Maria out as she clutched onto the jacket.


    "YOU HEARD THE MAN, MOVE!" Rocco yelled as the students and faculty flinched before following him outside.


    However, to their surprise, not a single cop car showed up at the front, which even made Ms. Collins show a look of shock.


    Ricky guided Maria into the empty car, opening the door for her as she plopped onto the seat, grateful for the momentary respite from the chaos.


    "Ricky, what is the meaning of this!" Ms. Collins hurried over to her new student as RIcky sighed.


    "Oh come Ms. Collins, you''re a smart apple, you''ll figure it out." Ricky winked before looking around.


    "That''s not what I mean." Ms. Collins reprimanded while placing a hand on Ricky''s shoulder.


    [Mission Received ''Jennifer Collins'']


    Difficulty: Hard


    Character Sheet: B


    Description: Jennifer has worked through countless adversities to land this prestigious job without taking the easy route when climbing this treacherous mountain. She might rather die than actually jeopardize her career by sleeping with one of her students.


    Objective: Find a way for Jennifer to overlook all of that and knock her up.


    Main Mission Reward: 100,000 IP


    Impregnante Jennifer Once:


    Rewards: 200 Gacha or The choice of Jennifer''s skills


    Impregnate Jennifer Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Main Mission Reward: 100,000 IP


    Impregnante Jennifer Once:


    Rewards: 200 Gacha or The choice of Jennifer''s skills


    Impregnate Jennifer Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnante Jennifer while in the classroom(Incomplete)


    Reward: Epic item coupon Legendary Coupon


    Break Jennfier''s pussy(Incomplete)


    Reward: Epic item coupon


    Have Jennifer take the initiative(Incomplete)


    Reward: Epic/Legendary Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    [Do you accept the mission Y/N]


    ''Hell yeah.''


    "I apologize Ms. Collins, but I have more important issues at the moment." Ricky pointed towards Maria, wanting to say something but Ricky simply started to ignore her.


    ''Chester, can you come here? I need your help.'' Ricky thought as he ignored Ms. Collins'' constant nagging.


    "Hey Princess, you like birds?" Ricky leaned on the car and asked as the sniffling Maria meekly nodded.


    "Yes, my sweet Tweetie is an Australian Swallow-"


    *GASP*


    Maria was speaking in almost a whisper until she gasped loudly, startled by the sight of a slick black crow landing on Ricky''s shoulder.


    "Princess this is Chester, Chester this is princess." Ricky introduced, star glistening in Maria''s eyes before mopping.


    "Why do you keep calling me princess." Maria pouted, trying to reach for Chetser; however the crow weaved under her hand.


    "What, I think it''s a cute nickname." Ricky, without shame, said as Maria smiled warmly at this since she always thought it was childish.


    ''Do me a favor and let her pet you will ya?'' Ricky thought as Chester stared at him for a while before hopping off of his shoulder and into Maria''s lap.


    "Kya~, hehehehehehe!" Maria playfully screamed before giggling fiercely when looking at Chester trying to find a comfortable spot to perch in her lap.


    "Wow, you really like birds." Ricky leaned on the window, smiling as he watched Maria try to get Chester to warm up to her.


    "Like? I absolutely love all animals in God''s choir." Maria spoke as she scratched Chester''s neck.


    "God''s choir?" Ricky chuckled though Maria seriously nodded.


    "My father always told me when I was little that although we are different in mind and soul, when all creatures die they sing for our arrival into heaven." Maria smiled warmly while remembering one of the memories of her deceased father.


    "God, you''re adorable." Ricky laughed, watching Chester start to coe under her touch.


    "Adorable! Me!" Maria loudly yelled in a slight panic while scratching Chester''s neck.


    "Caw~" Chester let out smoothly as he slowly started to melt into Maria''s touch.


    "Slick, ya did good kid." Profaci patted Ricky''s shoulder as a group of men followed behind him.


    "Chester." Ricky tapped the crows head as it flinched out of its daze, looking around as if not knowing what had just happened.


    "You have a bird too?" Profaci raised an eyebrow, a smile playing on his lips as he got into the car on the other side, while one of his associates took the driver''s seat and another the passenger seat.


    "Where are you heading at this hour?" Ricky asked as Profaci looked seemingly in the distance.


    "The hospital." Profaci had a serious expression as Maria looked at him with surprise.


    "I''m not hurting uncy-"


    "It''s not for you Princess, but for me." Profcai spoke while leaving the words ambiguous.


    "Ah, ok." Maria shrugged before looking sweetly at Chester.


    "Bye Ricky, bye Chester~" Maria waved at Ricky before giving a sweeter tone to Chester.


    The car drove away as Ricky watched the car drive away with an amused expression before looking over to Chester.


    "I think she has an eye for you." Ricky joked as Chester looked away before flying off to do god knows what.


    Meanwhile In The Principal Office,


    "So Vice Principal, I guess you''re going to be the next Principal, congratulations." Lucky sat on the desk while munching on an apple as the vice principal awkwardly sat across from him.


    The Vice Principal, Boris Lankton, gazed fearfully at Lucky Luciano, realizing that it was Lucky who had orchestrated Ricky''s enrollment in the school.


    Lucky had connections everywhere, and Boris had unwittingly become entangled in his web of influence by being the contact at Collegiate High School.


    "M-M-Mr. Luciano, are they going to be okay?" Boris carefully asked, looking at the severely blackned former Principal and teacher laying at the side limp.


    "Their breathing aren''t they?" Lucky shrugged while taking another bite out of his apple.


    "Listen Boris, do you want the job or not?" Lucky asked as Boris hesitated though nodded his head.


    "Then. Shut. Up. And. Do. What. I. Say." Lucky poked Boris with his cane at every single word as the man gulped heavily.


    "Yes Mr-"


    "Call me boss, I don''t like the way you call me Mr. Luciano since it''s like you think we''re close, and we ain''t two peas in a pod." Lucky took a final bite of the apple before throwing the core at Boris who caught it.


    "Make this go away, I''ll take care of all these miscreants you just keep the students and teachers from whispering, ka pesh?" Lucky hopped off the desk before two men came in to drag both the men out.


    "But the parents-"


    "Will never find out, right?" Lucky raised his coat, showcasing his pistol which made Boris pale.


    "I''ll be seeing you Boris, don''t let me down." Lucky spoke as Boris patted his forehead with a shaky hand.


    Then after Boris was left in the office alone, he looked around before hobbling over to the desk and sitting down.


    *Gulp*


    "You got it Boris, you can do this." Boris urged himself, opening a drawer next to him that had a pitch black phone.


    While the staff handled administrative matters, the true puppeteers were a select few students who wielded influence over the school''s affairs.


    Dialing the number stored deep in his memory, this phone connected directly to another strategically positioned within the school.


    "I was wondering when I would recieve your call." A voice answered in a dignified tone, clearly anticipating Boris''s call.


    "I-I need a favor-"


    "Oh I think you''re past favors, I''m afriad you need a miracle." The voice amused, calmly chuckled at Boris''s words.


    "But I''ll ensure all the students keep quiet for a particular arrangement." The voice continued, leaving Boris with no option but to give one answer.


    "Anything."

 Chapter 20: Skull & Bones

    Chapter 20: Skull & Bones


    Author''s Note: I forgot to say this last Chapter but no chaps on the weekends cause I use those days to revise and work on new stuff.


    Two Weeks Later,


    "And that is why I think Benedict McCornWick is a lackluster founding father." Ricky looked up from his paper that he had Jake write for him as everyone gave off forced claps.


    *DING*


    "Next week we''ll be talking about George Washington so your homework will be to ask your parents about the general knowledge of him!" Ms. Collins instructed as the kids happily zoomed out the classroom.


    Two weeks had passed, and the event that had initially consumed everyone''s thoughts began to fade into obscurity.


    Through a series of behind-the-scenes maneuvers, the school and police turned a blind eye to the incident.


    Persuasive words from an unknown entity swayed many of the students and faculty to follow suit, choosing to overlook the events that had transpired, except for a few who remained skeptical or unwilling to forget.


    "Mr. Luciano." Ms. Collins called out right as Ricky was about to join his classmates in leaving for the weekend.


    "Yes, Ms. Collins." Ricky turned around with a fake smile as she crossed her arms.


    "It''s been two weeks yet you haven''t come to explain to me what happened." Ms. Collin adjusted her glasses before sitting on her chair, being one of the skeptical folks within the school.


    "Ricky-"


    *SIGH*


    Ricky interrupted Ms. Collins with a sigh, growing annoyed with what he perceived as her high and mighty act, which he believed was her way of trying to guide him into the right direction.


    "Ms. Collins just let it go, everyone except you has moved on so just follow the herd." Ricky then turned around as Ms. Collins scrunched her eyebrows.


    "Ricky Luciano you''ll do good to stop at that door-"


    "Or what?" Ricky scoffed before turning around and walking over to her.


    *Bam*


    Ricky slammed his hand on the desk where Ms. Collins was arrogantly sitting, causing her to flinch at the sudden act of force as his eyes hovered right over hers.


    "I''ve been very patient with you over these last two weeks but all you''ve done is given me backhanded insults or constantly tried to make up any BS excuse to pry information out of me." Ricky''s eyes were cold, gazing directly into Ms. Collins as he''d finally reached the breaking point.


    "Do you really think you have power over me just cause you''re my teacher? Ms. Collins, I could have you blacklisted across every single school in the whole tri state area so fast you wouldn''t be able to understand what is happening to you." Ricky''s tone was getting harsher and harsher with every second ticking loudly on the nearby clock which made Ms. Collins ducked her head.


    "And before you think up some bullsh*t excuse that I''m being like this because your a woman or whatever the hell you concoct up in that pompous brain of yours, it''s not, it''s because you don''t know when to shut your f*cking mouth and do as you''re told." Ricky then pushed Ms. Collins a little as she flinched at his touch.


    "Stop bothering me and just do your f*cking job, which is to lecture me about these dumb*ss subjects, not about my life." Ricky then turned around while walking back to the door.


    "I-I''m sorry." Ms. Collins gripped the ends of her skirt knowing that she pushed too hard, shaking a bit at that cold look in Ricky''s usual nonchalant demeanor.


    Ms. Collins was about to say something but Ricky didn''t even stop to acknowledge her existence, walking out of the door and leaving her completely alone.


    Walking to his locker, he saw the trio waiting for him as he went to do the combination of his locker.


    "Alright boys here''s the plan, there''s a four hour marathon of horror movies tonight at the drive in and I say we go to pick up some honey''s to go along with it~" Rocco spoke while combing his hair as Ricky smirked, slicking his hand through his hair.


    "Yeah I need to blow off some steam-"


    As Ricky finished the combination and opened his locker, an envelope suddenly fell out, landing at his feet.


    Rocco''s expression immediately shifted into one of dismay, indicating that whatever was in the envelope was deeply troubling.


    "OH COME ON!" Rocco grabbed his head, knowing the plans he just thought up were about to be flushed down the drain as Jake and Edward chuckled from the side, all the while Ricky went over to pick it up.


    Dear Ricky Luciano,


    A banquet for all newcomers will persist Friday evening after school hours and you are cordially invited. It will be a masked ball and you will be required to wear a mask, a map will be provided on the bottom of the envelope. A mask and suit will be hanging on your locker with the pieces fitting to it.


    7 p.m


    Don''t be late.


    Handler 56495


    "Slick, come on please, be my wingman and help me out, I''m begging you!" Rocco got on his knees while grabbing Ricky''s pant legs.


    "Golly, Rocco''s desperate." Edward nudged Jake who rolled his eyes at this interaction.


    "Rocco, where''s your dignity?" Ricky joked though Rocco shook his head.


    "I ain''t got none after my recent dry streak, now please help me get some action." Rocco asked since Ricky was the perfect wingman as long as he lowered his standards a bit.


    "If this weird meeting cut''s out early then I''ll catch up, deal?" Ricky laughed at his friend''s behavior as he jumped to his feet before taking him into a hug.


    "You''re the bestest friend a guy could ask for."


    A couple hours later,


    "They really weren''t kidding about the suit." Ricky returned to his locker, his surprise evident as he found a suit hanging inside.


    At the top of the suit was a skull mask that covered the upper half of his face, and at the bottom, a polished pair of dress shoes sat neatly.


    Ricky shook his head slightly, grabbed the suit, and removed it from the locker before entering the bathroom.


    After a couple of minutes, he emerged from the bathroom, adjusting his skull cufflinks before pulling out a letter.


    The sound of heels clacking echoed as Ricky walked down the empty hallway and entered the gymnasium.


    Students, much like himself, were seated on the bleachers as Ricky raised an eyebrow and noticed that the men were wearing suits exactly similar to his, while the women wore pearly white necklaces with a black dress.


    Glancing at his letter, he searched for an empty seat and found one in the middle row, making his way over to it.


    As he sat down, he observed that everyone was silent, not even whispering. Ricky looked around, taking in the unusual silence.


    "Do we just wait or-"


    "SHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Everyone hushed him the second he started whispering as he held up his hands in a surrender.


    "Geez-"


    "SHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    Ricky rolled his eyes, leaning back and making a zipping gesture across his mouth before throwing away the key.


    Suddenly, lights illuminated the center of the gymnasium, revealing an elongated table with members seated behind it in lavish chairs.


    Their gazes were fixed on the students gathered on the bleachers; this council of thirteen people, quietly exuding authority, were in fact the leaders of the Skull and Bones.


    ''This looks so stupid-''


    "Greetings hopeful inductees and welcome to the 253rd recruitment of the Skull and Bones." The man at the center announced as the people in front of him started clapping before he raised a hand which made them all immediately cease into a dead silence.


    "Each of you was chosen by a designated handler; however out of the fifty of you, only ten will join the club." The leader informed the fifty participants in attendance today as Ricky leaned back while scratching his chin.


    "If you were smart then you would''ve held onto your letter as it will hold the key to finding your ticket into the club." The leader informed the participants, Ricky tilting his head while pulling out the letter before turning it back and forth though didn''t find anything.


    "A skull and bones member needs to be bold, elegant, calculative, and resourceful if they wish to join the ranks of the most elite club that has been around since the start of america." The leader announced though Ricky yawned which made the nearby people glare at him.


    "Now, if you truly manage to follow the clues and directions then you will be able to find your ticket, which is this." The leader held up a metal skull while gently setting it in front of him to display to the hopeful participants.


    "You have one hour to bring a skull to a member seated at the table with whatever methods possible." The leader looked around the participants before finding Ricky.


    "Begin."


    The participants immediately jumped to their feet while grabbing the letters from their pockets before trying to decipher any directions on them.


    After a while, the participants started trickling out until the only one remaining in the entire gymnasium was Ricky who hadn''t even left the bleacher.


    "May I help you, participant?" The leader asked with a smile though Ricky looked around at all of these members.


    "You look like a bunch of dorks, you know that right?" Ricky laughed at his own insult however the members simply stared at him with dead eyes.


    "And obviously don''t have a sense of humor either." Ricky yawned while stretching his arms.


    "Participant, are you not afraid of falling behind the other forty nine?" The leader tilted his head but Ricky shrugged.


    "All I have to do is find that metal skull, correct?"


    "Correct."


    "And it looks exactly like the one sitting in front of you?"


    "Precisely."


    The interaction was brief but it affirmed Ricky''s beliefs as he nodded before standing up.


    The members simply stared at him walking down the bleachers towards the leader, who patiently waited for him.


    Ricky ascended the steps to where the members sat and eventually stood before the leader who he had a brief exchange with seconds ago.


    Looking into the leader''s blue eyes, Ricky reached out and grabbed the metal skull, examining it.


    There was nothing particularly special about the skull except for its weight as he tossed it up and down.


    "Here." Ricky stopped tossing it and held out the skull to the leader who stared at him for a long time before smiling widely.


    The leader took the skull, and suddenly, applause resounded throughout the gymnasium as everyone stared at the member who had just passed whatever test or ritual had taken place.


    "Congratulations participant, you have officially passed the first test." The leader announced to Ricky who raised an eyebrow.


    "First?" Ricky asked, seeing the leader nod which made him slightly annoyed.


    "Although you would be informed later once the other nine skulls have been found, there is a total of five more test since only five members can really join each year-"


    "Yeah, I''m not waiting that long." Ricky interrupted while looking around before stepping down the steps.


    The leader looked around at his fellow council who were equally confused since they immediately assumed the worst.


    "Participant, do you wish to leave and be disqualified?" The leader curiously asked since although it was frowned upon it wasn''t all that uncommon for participants dropping out.


    "Huh? Oh no, I''m just going to speed up the process since I have plans later." Ricky looked at him weirdly before turning back to the entrances.


    Ricky literally joined this snobby school to rub shoulders with the elite in hopes of forming connections and this club was literally meant for the elite of the elite to rub shoulders.


    So why wouldn''t he join?


    However Ricky wasn''t going to run around like some kind of dog since after some convincing on Rocco''s part, he actually wanted to go to the movies to let loose a little.


    "I would advise against that." The leader suddenly spoke only when Ricky was about to take off his mask causing him to turn back.


    "Is it really that big of a deal-"


    "Yes." The entire skull and bones club responded, making Ricky roll his eyes.


    "Fine, I''ll keep this stuffy mask on." Ricky sighed as a slight chuckle rescinded from a girl on the council who was staring daggers at him.


    *BAM*


    "I FOUND IT!" A man cheered and rushed over to the council, prompting Ricky to smile as he walked forward.


    In the excitement, the teenager forgot that the council members were actually wearing white suits instead of black.


    Nonetheless, he handed the skull to Ricky, thinking he had completed the first task at hand.


    "Am I a part of the club now?!" The teenager asked with hopeful eyes as Ricky placed the skull in his pocket.


    "Nope." Ricky then turned around as another member on the council started cackling at this before the leader shoved him.


    "Oh come on, that''s hilarious." One of the council members defended himself only for the leader to nudge him again.


    "What do you mean I didn''t pass, I GAVE YOU THE SKULL!" The teengaer''s heart sank as gazed up at the leader who shook his head.


    "He is a participant, not a member, so you have not passed the test yet." The leader annoyingly informed the teenager.


    "BUT THAT ISN''T FAIR-"


    "Fair?" One of the female council members finally spoke up, sneering at the participant.


    "There is no such thing as ''Fair'' there is only win or lose and you little bug, lost." The council member was ruthless, making the teenager shake his head while looking distraught at Ricky boredly pacing around the auditorium.


    "GIVE IT BACK TO ME RIGHT NOW!" The teenager screeched outwards, but Ricky simply side-eyed him.


    "If you really want to get hurt because of this skull, then go for it." Ricky offered as the teenager flinched before clenching his fist.


    "Ahhhhhhhhh!" The teenager let out his battle cry as he charged at Ricky who calmly stood still.


    *Bam*


    *Thump*


    Ricky quickly punched the teenager smack dab in the face as his eyes immediately rolled to the back of his skull while his body slumped to the ground.


    Although older, this pampered kid had never been in a fight let alone thrown a punch which made the experienced Ricky, qualified from years of kicking ass and getting his ass kicked, easily subdue him.


    "All in favor of disqualifying participant 26 for lack of elegance."


    "I!" All the members loudly spoke as the leader pointed and amidst Ricky''s eyes, the unconscious teenager was dragged out.


    *PFFFFT*


    "Am I not disqualified?" Ricky asked with an amused tone but the leader shrugged at this question.


    "To you your actions weren''t elegant, but in our eyes it was quick and precise." The leader spoke while nudging the man cackling to his side once more to cease his muffled laughing.


    "Honestly I want to apologize, but I won''t since all the planning and arranging you all made for sifting members out will go to waste cause I''m going to take all of these skulls." Ricky shrugged as the door opened again with a man running with two people chasing behind him.


    "GET HIM!"


    "DAMMIT YOU THIEF!"


    The two men behind the running teenager screamed at him, but he didn''t care. His focus was on the other members.


    This teenager wasn''t the sharpest tool in the shed, but he was sneaky and when he saw two guys were arguing over the ownership of a skull, he snatched it right before their eyes.


    ''I DID IT! I DID IT-"


    *COUGH*


    Suddenly, the teenager let out a dry heave as a sudden fist lodged into his stomach, causing him to tumble backwards to the ground.


    The two chasing him immediately stopped, their eyes widening as they watched Ricky swiftly go through the pockets of the fallen kid before taking out his skull.


    "Good effort but poor execution." The leader commented, and the other members nodded in agreement, acknowledging the teenager''s actions.


    However, one member frowned, his gaze fixed on the teenager rolling around on the ground, perhaps disapproving of his behavior.


    "Dammit Josh."


    "Uh, can he do that?" One masked teenager asked the leader, who sighed, while placing his hand on his head.


    "Technically yes." The leader informed the two as they looked at each other then at Ricky.


    "I dare you." Ricky squinted, a slight smile playing on his lips, as the two individuals bit their lips nervously before looking back at each other and nodding.


    However, instead of charging at him as Ricky assumed they might, they bolted out of the auditorium, leaving the teenager Ricky had punched scrambling to his feet.


    "G-Give it back." The teengear hissed in anger while clutching his stomach.


    "Nope." Ricky smirked, pocketing the second skull, while the latter gritted his teeth.


    Before he could say anything, he made eye contact with a council member who clicked his tongue in disapproval.


    Ricky wasn''t naive at this slight occurrence; turning around and seeing the angry expression on a council member and immediately judging them to be family.


    The injured teenager limped toward the bleachers as Ricky raised an eyebrow before completely turning around to face the council member with whom he had made eye contact before.


    "That''s your brother right?" Ricky walked back to the table as the council remained steadfast but the look in his eyes said it all.


    Clear annoyance and hatred mixed like a melting pot in his hazel eyes which reflected that smug smile playing on Ricky''s face.


    "Are you mad that I treated your brother like a ragdoll?" Ricky leaned over and gazed at the member, deciding to pass time by picking a fight with this council member.


    "Participant, although I wished that failure didn''t occur for him, he couldn''t even complete the task at hand so there is no point in getting riled up over it." The council members'' eyes were furious however even in this chaotic moment, the aura was masked in a calm collected manner.


    ''Rich people are so weird.'' Ricky tilted his head with a smile as he couldn''t help but become more interested in this world in which the 1% lived in.


    ''Well, I guess I''ll wait and see what this grandiose gathering of pubescent hormones morphs into.''

 Chapter 21: A Glimpse Into High Society

    Chapter 21: A Glimpse Into High Society


    30 minutes later,


    "And that''s the last one." Ricky smirked after picking up the last skull ornament from a sniveling teenager holding his bruised face.


    *Sigh*


    The leader started sighing, however instead of being annoyed, he had a wide smile on his face before leaning back in his seat.


    "Participant, I congratulate you on achieving a feat that none before you have ever achieved." The leader complimented him, his words prompting small claps from the existing members in acknowledgement of his achievement.


    Then the leader gazed upon the morally destroyed participants, a disappointed light flashing in his eyes.


    "However you cannot join on your lonesome, there needs to be five participants in total who pass for the semester." The leader hinted at Ricky who raised an eyebrow, understanding his words shortly there after


    *Clap*


    "My fellow participants, form a line facing me if you want the chance to get ahold of this weird skeleton head." Ricky pulled a skeleton head out of his pocket, pointing to it then at all of the hateful participants shooting glares at him.


    Suddenly, one of the first participants he had stolen from stood up and elegantly walked over to Ricky.


    Ricky looked back at one of the council leaders before winking at him, turning back around to the kid who looked around the same age as him.


    Then, before the widened eyes of not only the participants but the council members, Ricky handed the skull to the clearly anxious kid.


    "Since you were the first to actually believe me, here is your reward." Ricky patted the kid''s shoulder as he flinched before looking down at the skeleton in his hand.


    The kid looked around before immediately darting forward and past Ricky who didn''t even move a inch.


    "Participant #29 has passed." The earlier council member snatched the skull from the kid almost instantly after he reached the podium before immediately announcing.


    "Haha!" The kid excitedly jumped up and down before receiving a glare from his older brother which quickly shut him up.


    "Now do you believe me?" Ricky asked with a smile, prompting shocked participants to look at each other before immediately darting forward.


    Within ten seconds, a line had formed in front of Ricky, each person eager to covet the new skull ornament he had just taken out.


    Walking down the line, Ricky side-eyed the council, who watched his actions with enhanced intrigue.


    Ricky eventually stopped, causing the participant in front of him to squirm, turning his eyes to the familiar figure of Maria.


    Blushing, Maria turned away, knowing she had been caught as Ricky started snickering before reaching for her hand.


    "Follow my lead, Princess~" Ricky teased in a quiet whisper, causing Maria, who was already embarrassed at being found out, to duck her head in embarrassment.


    He grabbed her hand delicately, placing the skull in it before guiding her over to a sitting council member.


    The council member raised an eyebrow at this interaction but ultimately shrugged, seemingly unconcerned.


    "Participant 42 has passed." The council member spoke, and Maria''s previously embarrassed smile lit up into an enthusiastic one.


    She was then instructed to sit on the stairs, and Ricky led her over to them before returning to the front of the line he had constructed.


    "Now the rest of you lot, get on your knees." Ricky had a thought and suddenly asked as one of the council members started laughing incessantly.


    Not even a second passed and seven participants fell to their knees in hopes of acquiring a skull before thirty followed.


    However, fifteen individuals upright either refused or didn''t care to follow Ricky''s instructions as they simply scoffed.


    Ricky nodded his head before curiously looking back only to see the disgusted faces of not only the skull and bones members, but their council as well.


    "Everyone who had just willingly submitted themselves are hereby disqualified." The leader didn''t care what Ricky was up to and swiftly disqualified them.


    "What?"


    "But what did we do wrong?"


    "YOU CAN''T DO THAT!"


    "NO, I CAN''T BE DISQUALIFIED!"


    Shock followed by outrage rippled through the crowd however, before they could vocalize their protests, members of the Skull and Bones stood up.


    Each participant who fell to their knees was guided or dragged out of the room and once the room was cleared, fifteen anxious and relieved members stood before Ricky and the council, awaiting their decision.


    "It''s kinda like Simon says." Ricky nodded as the leader rubbed his forehead in grief at how these participants were being led around so easily.


    "Well, this is getting boring so let''s speed it up." Ricky spoke as he took out two skulls before dropping them on the ground.


    "Go wild." Ricky encouraged the upcoming fight, laughing as he walked over to where Maria was.


    The fifteen members froze, ready to go wild, but then remembered what the leader had said and looked up at him.


    Each participant flinched as they saw the leader''s disgusted gaze, as if he already knew what they were about to do.


    "I have an idea on who to decide who passes while we all keep our dignity." A teenager suddenly spoke up as the other fourteen immediately tuned in.


    Ricky frowned, his eyebrows scrunching since instead of an all out brawl, they all did a rock paper scissor tournament.


    The two who took the skull were the male teenager who had suggested the idea and a random female who was lucky enough to win.


    The leader glanced at Ricky, who seemed indifferent as he didn''t care to give the other five skulls still in his pocket.


    Nodding, the leader then looked at his fellow council members, who almost instantly agreed with him without needing to speak as he grabbed his gavel, signaling the end of the meeting.


    "And that concludes the 253 first term recruitment." The leader announced throughout the gymnasium while the thirteen failed participants hung their heads in shame.


    "However as you followed the code of the Skull and Bones to the utmost sincerity, you will all be invited to the second term recruitment." The leader announced with a smile as the thirteen failed participants'' faces lit up in hope for the future.


    "Now please leave the gymnasium." The leader instructed the thirteen of them to quickly leave and they all did as they were told.


    Once those thirteen failed participants left, every one of the members including the council started taking off their masks.


    "Congratulations Ricky Luciano, Maira Profaci, Tim Lafayette Hunt, Sam Johnson, and Ruth Pesotta to the society of Skull and Bones." The young man announced as clapping resounded from the existing members as the new members all looked thrilled while nodding.


    "Please follow us to the congratulatory banquet to be held in all of your honors." The leader stood up along with the rest, escorting them to the celebratory banquet.


    Ricky walked a little bit ahead to the leader who was leading the pack while ignoring the clear chain of superiority since only those seated on the council were supposed to walk ahead.


    "Ricky Luciano." Ricky introduced himself as the leader''s smile before holding out his hand in return.


    "Henry Ford II." Henry''s words subtly shocked Ricky who shook the hand of the man that would eventually inherit the ford empire.


    "That stunt you pulled off was quite something." An arm slung itself around him as a guy smiled cheerfully.


    "Jerry Hammer, good to meet ya Ricky." Jerry shook Ricky''s hand with a boisterous laugh.


    "Nice to meet ya." Ricky recognized that laugh and shook his head, making Jerry snickered at this response.


    "Your hilarious Ricky, usually these recruiting events are a snooze fest but I have never laughed once when attending, at least, until you showed up!" Jerry hollered out, finally letting out the laughter he had been keeping in earlier.


    "And-HAhAHAHAHAHA!" Jerry was about to say something else when looking to the side as the council member, talking with the new member Tim, scrunched his eyebrows.


    "And when you dangled Haroldson''s brother over him, I swear, I SWEAR, I almost fell out of my seat trying to contain myself!" Jerry enthusiastically spoke out while speaking towards Haroldson in subtle undertones which made him step forward.


    "Although I do not like you Ricky, I respect your actions." Haroldson bluntly spoke before shaking Ricky''s hand.


    "Haroldson Lafayette Hunt Jr II." Haroldson remarked as Ricky gave him a cheeky smile in response.


    Right as the other council members were about to introduce themselves, they saw Henry arrive at two double doors.


    "I know that many of you, especially the council, were looking forward to all the events that were supposed to take place today." Henry spoke while eyeing Ricky who simply didn''t care in the least at the sudden stares accumulating on his figure.


    "But let''s fill all that time with the main festivity, the banquet." Henry signaled as the double doors opened to reveal a lavish scenery.


    In the center of the room hung a gorgeous chandelier, casting a warm, inviting glow over the scene below.


    The long, outstretched tables were covered in the finest silk, creating an elegant and luxurious atmosphere.


    Upon these tables sat the finest meals, a feast that only the poor could dream of indulging in.


    The members of the Skull and Bones funneled into the banquet hall, eager to engage in what this club was intended for in the first place: networking.


    What had started as a simple gathering of the richest 1% at the University of Yale had evolved into something much larger, spreading all over the tri-state area.


    Over time, this club had become a rite of passage for the budding offspring of those same 1%, a way to reaffirm their bloodlines through the relationships their parents had once built.


    The banquet was not just a meal; it was a symbol of their status, their privilege, and their power.


    "Hello Maria." Ricky popped up right as Maria was about to take some crab, flinching and covering her chest.


    "Oh, you scared me Ricky~" Maria let out a breath of relief knowing it was Ricky as she then smiled.


    "And thank you." Maria truly thanked Ricky from the bottom of her heart as he waved his hand.


    "It''s no prob-"


    "Not to me it isn''t." Maria was dead serious when gazing into Ricky''s eyes.


    While for some, joining the elite was a chance to climb the social ladder, for her, it was a chance to fulfill the thing she wanted most in this world: friends.


    Despite understanding that her name came with responsibilities and sacrifices, it didn''t make the loneliness any less profound as time progressed.


    Overtime, Maria started to become accustomed to the loneliness that had created a divide between her and the common girl, leaving her feeling isolated.


    However, upon receiving this invitation, new sparks of hopeful thinking emerged as she considered the chance to make friends.


    "Then you are most welcome." Ricky showed a charmed expression while Maria smiled warmly at this before he took a sip of champagne.


    "R-Ricky aren''t you-"


    "I am, but let''s keep it a secret between us, alright?" Ricky winked, making a shushing gesture as he downed the champagne.


    "Hello Maria, would you mind if I commandeered Ricky here?" Henry popped up out of the blue as Maria once again flinched.


    "Oh my apologies." Henry instinctively reached out, only for his hand to be grabbed by Ricky.


    Henry raised an eyebrow before understanding what Maria meant to Ricky in almost an instant, nodding his head in realization.


    "It''s fine, Ricky we''ll talk later okay?" Maria nodded before placing a hand on Ricky''s arm as he nodded his head while letting Henry lead him away.


    "Please forgive me if you thought I was making advances towards your woman." Henry first apologized since at heart, he was a gentleman.


    "It''s fine, but if you''d spread the word around school that she''s taken then it would make me very gracious." Ricky spoke words that made Henry smile with an assuring nod.


    "Anyhow, I wanted to introduce you to the rest of the council since they all were interested in your earlier display." Henry gestured as ten people were grouped up though each and everyone of them were staring at Ricky.


    "What is the point of this council anyway?" Ricky asked, knowing this stuffy elitist council was something more.


    "The council is meant for the most influential members within the club and our positions are held not by seniority but by votes from other members." Henry instructed, Ricky listening in while putting his empty glass on a passing waiter.


    "The original purpose of this club is essentially to network with others of the same status. It''s the core fundamental of this organization, which is why its inner workings are composed of those who excel at it." Henry explained, gazing at all these men and women that would one day take up notable positions within America.


    "Everyone here is guaranteed entrance into the 1% since we are privileged enough to be given this right from birth." Henry continued, knowing it was merely luck that had given him this place in the world, and decided to take full advantage of it.


    "But only a few can truly use this privilege to its fullest advantage. The Skull and Bones Society seeks to enhance our collective group, fostering those who can maximize their potential and contribute to our legacy." Henry finished as they arrived at the circle which held the other ten members who intently gazed at Ricky.


    "You''ve already met three of us already so let me introduce the rest." Henry then guided Ricky''s view to his closest side.


    "This is George Goldman, his father and mother are both integral members of the notorious Goldman Sach group here in New york." Henry introduced as George raised a glass towards Ricky.


    "This is Arthur Sears, his father is one of the two founders of Sears Roebuck." Henry gestured to Arthur who gave a nod to Ricky.


    "To the left of Arthur is Joseph Hassebrook, his father and the owner and CEO of American Metal." Henry introduced though Joseph showed a scowl to Ricky as he quickly tried to turn Ricky''s gaze away from him.


    "Right beside Joseph is Betty Eagan and her father is the founder of American cast iron pipe-"


    "You best keep yer eyes off my Betty, if you know what''s good for you." Joseph let out a drunken remark which showed that his unpleasantness lay within his poor control over alcohol.


    "Joseph!" Betty became immediately embarrassed by her drunken fiance as she quickly walked next to him.


    Maybe it was a woman''s sixth sense but right as she reached his side, he almost collapsed though was propped up due to her being there.


    "If ya''ll excuse us." Betty chuckled anxiously before walking Joseph to the side while angrily whispering at him.


    *Cough*


    "This is-"


    Henry then promptly introduced three more guys who names and associations that came with them which were:


    Randal Palmer: Son of the supreme court justice Mithcell Palmer


    Robert F. Wagner ll: Son of the current senator Robert F. Wagner of the third class.


    Frank Giillete: Son of the found and owner of United states Rubber


    "And-"


    "Ruth Sheffield, charmed~" Ruth stepped forward while subtly pushing Henry to the side while holding out her hand.


    "A pleasure, Ruth." Ricky understood and gently picked her hand while kissing it.


    *Ding*


    [Mission Received: Ruth Steffield]


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: B+


    Description: Ruth Steffield, born with a diamond spoons that makes all diamond spoons pale in comparison. From a young age she''s got whatever she''s desired and all she''s ever wanted and right now, she looks like she wants you.


    Objective: Give her what she wants and something she never expected to get.


    Reward: 50,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Ruth Once:


    Rewards: 100 Gacha or Ruth''s Skills


    Impregnate Ruth Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Impregnate Ruth Thrice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Have Ruth throw away her pride that she always hangs over others(Incomplete)


    Reward: Legendary/Epic Coupon


    Get Ruth to beg for your cum(Incomplete)


    Reward: Epic Item Coupon


    Cum Inside all three of Ruth''s holes(Incomplete)


    Reward: Rare Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ''Accept.''


    "I still can''t believe how elegant you were when ''gathering'' those skulls, Ricky~" Ruth wasn''t even subtle in her filtering as Ricky chuckled.


    "Well, I seek to impress." Ricky made a lame joke however Ruth started laughing uncontrollably as if it was the funniest thing she heard in her life.


    "Oh Ricky, you''re such a riot." Ruth placed a hand on his shoulder as Jerry rolled his eyes.


    "Hey Ruth, get your mitts off of him-"


    *GULP*


    Jerry wanted to talk more with Ricky and maybe get out a laugh or two until he saw that vicious side-eye from Ruth which made him halt all movements.


    "Jerry, did I say you could talk to me?" Ruth asked as Jerry realized that she wasn''t in any mood to even joke around.


    "N-No." Jerry rubbed the back of his neck knowing that messing with Ruth wasn''t anything to be taken lightly.


    Although his family was prominent in its own right, Ruth''s father was arguably the most powerful man in America.


    His steel was used all around the country, boasting the highest return rate in terms of profits out of all the companies of this age.


    To add the cream to the pudding, Ruth''s grandfather was John D. Rockefeller, making Ruth practically untouchable.


    "Ricky, unlike that fool, you are so interesting." Ruth gently petted Ricky''s arm as the latter simply gave her an amused gaze.


    "And what''s made you so taken to me?" Ricky played along and asked while Ruth gave him a warm smile.


    "Well for one thing, you''re the heir to the Luciano crime family." Ruth boldly outed Ricky to the rest; however none of these other council members were clueless about his background.


    "Oh?" Ricky raised an eyebrow at how unsurprised these people were of his father''s actions.


    "We''re not insulting you or anything Ricky since the mafia is very well known to our class of people." Henry informed Ricky though he wasn''t surprised since he was sure that they knew a whole lot more than that.


    "Well, don''t worry I''m not insulted and to show my good graciousness." Ricky took out a couple of blank cards and pens before scribbling something onto it.


    "If you ever find yourself in the Luciano family''s territory, show them this card and you''ll get VIP treatment." Ricky handed these cards to the current members who were surprised but took the cards nonetheless, except one.


    "What if I come to see you?" Ruth edged her finger across the stuck out card, tracing her finger alongside the edges as Ricky shrugged.


    "Then give them this card." Ricky''s words made the others snicker as Ruth raised an intrigued eyebrow before taking the card.


    "Even?" Jerry said one word but the gesture of tapping his nose spoke a whole sentence as Ricky reaffirmed him.


    "Anything." Ricky''s subtle action raised the others'' approval of him.


    The conversation afterwards was pleasant as they conversed about tedious subjects.


    Maria stood off to the side, emanating a lonely aura as no one approached her. Yet, she wouldn''t have given them a second of her time, her eyes longingly fixed on both Ricky and Ruth.


    Maria initially thought Ricky''s actions were merely friendly, attributing them to their shared origins.


    However, a pain she couldn''t explain struck her heart every time she saw Ruth flirtatiously touching Ricky. Suddenly, Maria flinched when Ricky turned in her direction.


    Panicking, she tried to hide herself behind a nearby plant, hoping he hadn''t noticed her.


    "Come here." Ricky suddenly stopped talking with the others while gesturing to her though she still hid behind the plant.


    *Sigh*


    Ricky walked over to the shy girl before dragging her over to the group as she shook her head while letting out a flurry of whispers.


    "R-Ricky s-stop-"


    "This shy little thing here is Maria Profaci." Ricky suddenly introduced as the other chuckled at her behavior.


    "Ruth." Ruth introduced first though her eyes flickered with annoyance but masked it perfectly with a golden smile.


    "Maria." Maria whispered, taking Ruth''s hand gently before the others'' introduction followed.


    "Names Jerry but you can call me-Jerry, just call me Jerry." Jerry''s tone was smooth until he saw the sharp eyes of Ricky gazing at him, seeing his whole being subtle oozing with with killing intent


    Jerry quickly shook Maria''s hand before waddling back to his spot, looking to Henry for help, but in return Henry only shook his head in disappointment.


    Gradually, Maria warmed up to the group as Ricky encouraged her out of her shy shell, helping her blossom into an energetic presence.


    An hour passed, and Maria was happily chatting with everyone, including Ruth, with whom she seemed to hit it off.


    Initially, Ruth wanted to assess her competition, but Maria''s radiant personality was irresistible.


    Soon, they started a lively, no-boys-allowed girl talk, bonding over shared interests and stories.


    "Alright, I better take her home since she probably snuck out to this shindig." Ricky informed the guys as they all gave understanding nods.


    "We''ll give you the itinerary for all the meetings later so go get her home." Henry patted Ricky''s shoulder but before he could leave, he suddenly stopped.


    "Before I leave, who was my handler?" Ricky asked as the others smiled while looking at a certain someone.


    "Really?" Ricky looked at Henry who shrugged since he had assumed he''d chosen another.


    "I''d be a fool not to recommend the man who''s so notorious all around the streets of New York city." Henry shrugged, hiding the real intentions but Ricky didn''t care to press on the matter before walking over to Maria.


    "Maria, it''s time for us to go." Ricky placed a hand on her shoulder while gently pulling her away from Ruth''s clutches.


    "N-No, ten more minutes~" Maria whined, being pulled away from Ruth''s clutches but Ricky was firm in his decision.


    "Nope, say goodbye." Ricky pulled Maria as she frowned but waved goodbye to her new friend.


    Though before they left the lavish banquet, Ricky swiped a bottle of champagne without a care in the world.


    "Bye Maria." Ruth waved as her hawk eyes watched the two of them leave before Henry strolled up to her side.


    "I see you''ve found something you like?" Henry raised an eyebrow while taking a sip of his wine.


    "No, I found something I want." Ruth''s eyes turned to Ricky''s departing back as Henry sighed, already knowing what would happen, though his eyes betrayed his outward expression.


    "And I always get what I want."


    Ricky and Maria left shortly afterwards as he drove her back to the Profaci residence before an armed gunman stopped him.


    "Stop your-Princess?" The bodyguard spoke in an intimidating tone before he showed a look of shock.


    "Surprise?" Maria chuckled anxiously as the bodyguard stood there stupefied.


    "Can we pass now?" Ricky asked the bodyguard who quickly nodded though still looked shocked at Maria outside the compound.


    Ricky then drove up to the front of the house before stepping out of the car though right as Maria was about to open the door, he reached it first.


    "My lady~" Ricky said in an overly gentlemanly way while sticking out his hand as Maria giggled before taking it.


    "Oh why thank you-"


    *BAM*


    Maria couldn''t even finish her words as the door swung open to reveal a stern Profaci crossing both arms.


    "Uncy wait-" Maria tried to say something but it was too late as Profaci wasn''t in the mood to hear anything.


    "Upstairs." Profaci pointed behind her but Maria hesitated after seeing Profaci looking at Ricky.


    "Uncy, Ricky only drove me home, I snuck-"


    "NOW!" Profaci yelled, causing Maria to flinch before rushing inside the house in the midst of Profaci''s anger.


    Maria gave Ricky a guilty look but he simply gestured towards her in a reassuring way as she reached inside the house.


    Profaci gazed at Ricky for a long time before letting out a deep sigh while reaching for a cigar and lighting it.


    "Anything to say?" Profaci asked while lighting his cigar but Ricky simply shrugged.


    "Do you really think so lowly of me, to believe that I would disrespect you so boldly by not asking for your permission to take Maria out?" Ricky countered quickly as Profaci wanted to say something before realizing that Ricky''s words held some merit.


    Profaci had an already very favorable impression of Ricky and willingly showed it so why would he go out of his way to ruin it.


    "What happened?" Profaci asked, walking over to Ricky and guiding him over to a nearby bench which looked over his garden fountain.


    Ricky didn''t care in the least for the secrecy of the bones and skulls society while telling his fellow crime lord the reasoning as Profaci showed an understanding look.


    "And you said she made a friend?" Profaci showed a heartfelt smile after hearing the entire story about their adventure.


    "Oh I''m sure, they would have talked the whole night if I didn''t decide to pluck her then and there." Ricky joked, making Profaci chuckle before grabbing another cigar and handing it to Ricky.


    "Don''t tell Lucky that I gave you this cuban." Profaci smiled as Ricky took it and took a couple of puffs.


    Profaci''s smile grew wider after realizing this cheeky bastard had smoked before, pleased that Ricky already knew what to do and didn''t have to give him the rundown.


    "You''re a good lad." Profaci laughed heartily while tapping his shoulder in affirmation.


    "Thanks Uncle." Ricky took another puff as Profaci wiped his eye before standing up.


    "If you ever want to take Maria out for a night on the town, just make sure to bring her home before 10." Profaci winked while subtly giving Ricky his blessing before walking back to the mansion.


    "Hahahahahaha!" Ricky let out a laugh at the permission granted by the most protective uncle he had ever seen as it felt like an accomplishment in itself.


    Standing up, Ricky adjusted himself as he walked towards his Cadillac. He got in and glanced at the passenger seat, where a full bottle of the finest champagne rested.


    "Now let''s go party."

 Chapter 22: Frisky Night, Frisky Girl (R18)

    Chapter 22: Frisky Night, Frisky Girl (R18)


    "He ain''t coming." Jake shook his head as he saw Rocco look anxiously at his pocket watch before seeing the group of girls huddled up.


    "And you actually think that Slick will come with a full bottle of that fancy booze without taking a sip first?" Edward was gobsmacked, thinking Rocco had been joking.


    Rocco had been incessantly flirting with four girls, keeping them on the hook with the single bait of alcohol.


    It was the one thing Rocco had begged Ricky to snag from that fancy event, knowing it would be the perfect incentive for the older girls in an era deprived from booze.


    "Ed, Jake, shut up will ya? Slick will come through and once he does, then we''ll not just be tasting the finest liquor but the sweet taste of what college could be like." Rocco nudged the two before standing up while seeing a car drive forward.


    "Is that your friend?" A girl walked up to Rocco while grazing her hand on his arm making him blush.


    "Yep, that''s Slick." Rocco instinctively spoke as the two of Jake and Edward started cracking up.


    "Did someone order a party?" Ricky stuck half of his body out of the car while waving the bottle.


    Jake and Edwards mocking laughs were replaced by clear expressions filled with shock as the girls let out excited screeches.


    "Come guys!" Rocco aggressively patted their shoulders as he hopped off the hood of Jake''s car and walked over to Ricky''s.


    "Which one is mine?" Ricky whispered as Rocco smiled widely before flicking his head to the side.


    "The college doll with red hair known as Irene." Rocco showed a toothy smile as he watched Ricky''s face become sleazy when he saw the redhead known as Irene.


    Irene, a forming adult woman with striking red hair, gazed at Ricky with a shy smile while blushing under Ricky''s penetrating gaze.


    Her fair skin, flawless and smooth, contrasts enticingly with her fiery locks that cascade in soft waves.


    Her slim figure, parts kissed by the sun, was so delicate yet tantalizingly curvaceous, moving along with her perky assets.


    Her perky breasts, perfectly proportioned, enhance her captivating charm, while two subtle round plums highlight the elegant arch of her back.


    A scattering of freckles across her cheeks adds a touch of innocence to her otherwise seductive presence, while a natural blush often highlights her fair complexion, drawing attention to her soft, inviting lips and mesmerizing blue eyes.


    "Are you Slick?" Irene asked with tinted red cheeks while peaking into the passenger seat window as Ricky''s smile grew wider.


    "The one and only darling." Ricky winked at her to get in as she smiled while opening the door.


    "Jake, follow me, alright?" Ricky stuck his head out the window to order Jake who was fluttering with a beautiful brunette.


    Jake raised a thumbs up, signaling that it was Ricky''s turn to shine as Rocco and his blonde companion got into the backseat.


    Ricky drove out to the local lake, a hidden gem he had discovered after escaping on the old cricket bridge.


    *POP*


    Irene yipped as the champagne bottle scared her a little as Ricky took a swig of the bottle before handing it to her.


    "Woah." Irene let out a surprised gasp at how smooth the champagne was before handing it to her friends as they all sat together for the downing of this bottle.


    The bottle was passed around like a treasured street relic, and soon everyone was a little buzzed.


    Ricky grabbed a flask, and Irene''s gaze lingered on him as her cheeks were flushed, partly from the alcohol and partly from the warm, summer night.


    As their friends paired off and made their way to the lake for a skinny dip, Ricky and Irene remained hunkered down in their spot, feeling the cool grass beneath them.


    "Not much of a swimmer?" Ricky teased lightly, taking another sip from his flask before offering it to Irene.


    "N-Not really." Irene shook her head with a soft smile and took the flask, flinching a little at the strong smell of bourbon and with a tight squint of her eyes, she downed it in one quick gulp.


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    "Woah there killer!" Ricky laughed and patted her back as she started coughing, the bourbon not sliding down her throat quite right.


    "I''m fine-"


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    "Easy, easy, rookies like yourself have to pace themselves." Ricky sliding the flask out her hand.


    "H-How did you know?" Irene asked, the bourbon and champagne mixing within her to form a slight blush on her freckled cheeks.


    "Cause you''re forcing it down, you got to be gentle." Ricky''s sleazy smile rang out, letting Irene understand the innuendo as he downed some of the flask here.


    "Try again and I get it tastes bad at first, but that''s what happens with all acquired tastes." Ricky maneuvered closer, Irene taking the flask and seeing slink himself nearer.


    "Tell me something about yourself, I''m curious to know more." Ricky asked, his voice gentle, trying to start his coaxing.


    "Like what?" Irene glanced at the flask in her hand, rubbing the metal with her thumb.


    "Uh, alright, what''s your favorite thing to do when you''re not studying?" Ricky thought for a second, remembering from Rocco she was in college.


    "I like painting, it really helps me relax when things get stressful." Irene had a sad smile, gazing at the reflection of the moonlight within the flask.


    "Oh yeah, I didn''t know I was amidst an artist." Ricky laughed, putting one of her dangling ginger strands behind her ear.


    "N-N-Not anything like that." Irene''s face turned plump red at his bold advancement since no man had ever been so courageous with her before.


    "Oh come on, don''t sell yourself short." Ricky assured, seeing Irene turn to him only to look back down after realizing how close he had become.


    "What kind of things do you paint?" Ricky asked though his eyes trailed down along her yellow sundress.


    Positioning his body so that his chest faced hers, he placed his left hand on her thigh resulting in a slight shiver to let out.


    *Ding*


    [Mission received: Irene Jenkins]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: D


    Description: Born into a well-rounded Christian family, Irene had been sheltered her entire life, never even kissing a boy. However, her countless years of diligent studying paid off when she received a full scholarship to a prestigious school. Growing up in such a closed-off household left her with troubled thoughts, longing to experience what her friends in high school desired¡ªmainly boys and alcohol.


    Objective: Knock up this busty redhead and make her realize why it''s good to learn sex ed.


    Main Mission: 10,000


    Impregnante Irene Once:


    Rewards: 50 Gacha or The choice of Irene''s skills


    Impregnate Maria Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnante Irene with her first ever time(Incomplete)


    Reward: Rare Equipment Coupon


    Get Irene to beg you to come inside her


    Reward: Rare/Uncommon skill Coupon


    Make Irene climax with your creampie


    Reward: +5 Appearance


    Bonus Missions:


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    [Do you wish to accept-]


    ''Yes.''


    "M-M-Mostly landscapes." Irene squeaked out, her mind racing with countless thoughts only for the alcohol to bolden the lewd ones.


    "Come on, be more specific." Ricky chuckled lightly, slinking his right hand behind and around her small waist.


    "I-I love capturing places like this, where it feels like time stands still." Irene boldly said, feeling the alcohol take over and facing him.


    "I''d love to see your work sometime." Ricky''s words made Irene breath hasten, losing her senses within his green eyes.


    "Maybe I''ll show you sometime." Irene felt a flutter in her chest at his interest within this moment.


    "Hey, do you want to continue our interests in my car?" Ricky asked, testing the waters and seeing Irene slowly nod her head.


    Holstering her up, Irene let Ricky sway her into the back seat of the car as their gazes were still locked within one another.


    "See anything that interests you?" Ricky asked, his arm previously around Irene''s waist, now sliding forward as he leaned closer to her.


    Irene wanted to reply, but when Ricky placed his other hand previously caressing her thigh on her cheek, her mind went blank.


    Now caressing her freckled cheek, he gently tilted her head upwards, her eyes closing instinctively as their lips met in a tender embrace.


    His tongue slowly slicked around her while his arm started to hook around her shoulders until his hands snuck down and landed onto Irene''s perky left breast, fondling it gently.


    Irene let out small moans within their passionate embrace though before she could get a firm grip on the situation.


    Gently rubbing her cheek, his hand smoothly transitioned down her body, its movement fluid and uninterrupted. It then traced up her skirt, feeling the smoothness of her shaven thigh.


    His fingers traced all around, feeling the slight goosebumps until his hands arrived at her slightly wet panties.


    ''Wet Touch.'' Ricky thought right as his finger seeped into the panties as the small wettened spot deepened intensely.


    "Ha~" Irene broke her lips from Ricky''s, letting out a haggard moan as her whole body started to shiver.


    Ricky didn''t waste a single precious second, burying his head into her neck while slowly parting her wettened panties to the side.


    The tips of his fingers stroked the tightly shut line that hung between her soft pink lips, feeling the intensity of his new skill firsthand as she had become incredibly wet in the matter of seconds which usually took minutes.


    Smiling widely, his eyes looked at her while he slowly inched a finger inside her as Irene immediately shivered.


    Having her ripe pussy slowly pried open, Irene''s mind felt hazy from the continuous jolt of pleasure felt from Ricky''s touch as he was slowly starting to play with her body at his own tune.


    Irene didn''t even feel as if she had a say, feeling wholly consumed the second he took her into his embrace as the flow was completely in the hands of Ricky.


    The swaying of Ricky''s fingers were precise, her body starting to mirror the ocean as it started motioning back and forth akin to a wave under the pull that was Ricky''s touch.


    His fingers burrowing deeper into her tight pink folds, hints of orange public hair remaining above her clit, but that only made Ricky smile widely.


    Caressing her clit with his thumb, his fingers seeped deeper into Irene''s cunt as the already slimy walls were being prepared.


    Pulled apart before retreating at any semblance of pain, Ricky made sure to prepare her for the coming intrusion while revealing in the cute expressions she was making.


    An overwhelming feeling started to swell inside her pussy, unknowing of what this could even be she quickly grabbed Ricky''s shirt with an anxious expression while tightening her thighs to seemingly stop his hand.


    "I-I feel weird-"


    "Shhhh, just let go." Ricky sweetly whispered, stopping Irene while laying gentle kisses on her neck and down to her collar bone.


    Doing as Ricky suggested, she gave into his devilish whisper as she closed her eyes while feeling herself being lost in the sway of his touch once more.


    Ricky yanked down her shirt as he started to get extremely horny at watching her have all the fun as his hand greedily cupped it.


    "Ha~" Irene moaned out, feeling Ricky''s movements both internally and externally get more aggressive.


    "It-"


    "I-"


    "Ahhhh~" Irene wanted to say something until she felt that intense build up suddenly rush throughout her.


    "AHHHHH!" Irene''s head jerked back, legs spasming outwards which gave way to a little squirt that released from her tight lower lips.


    Irene''s back arched, gritting her teeth while gazing at the ceiling of the car as a small drop of drool escaped the side of her mouth.


    Then she fell back, panting slightly as Irene''s constant breaths made both of her tits jiggle at every pant.


    Her body, the ones that weren''t already exposed by Ricky due to a yellow floral dress, were slowly being undone as Ricky started taking it off while Irene hazily watched him strip her bare.


    Ricky undressed himself after the fact as Irene simply sat on the seat while huffing out the occasional pants before Ricky hovered over her being.


    The unbuckling of his pants rang in Irene''s ear as she looked down at the sight of Ricky''s thick cock being released from its bindings, taking up the majority of her attention as she locked in on it.


    Ricky didn''t hesitate and lined up his member as his tip was soon sandwiched between both Irene''s folds as it slowly coated his tip with a welcoming gift of the remaining love juices.


    Positioning himself in an ideal spot, he slinked his hands under her meaty thighs before gripping down to get a good hole as he pushed into this pure christian with the intention of completely corrupting her with the sin of lust.


    Ricky didn''t care for being gentle for a mere one night stand, pushing his throbbing cock deeper into her lubed pussy as he could feel her very walls being torn to accommodate his massive size.


    "AHHHHHHHHHH~" Irene yelped out a pain riddled moan, feeling the pleasure mixed pain of having her cherry yanked from her with such brutality.


    Stretching immensely, blood seeped from the ends of Ricky''s cock as it unabashedly pushed her insides at the whims of his size, causing the crippling pain to spread throughout her body before her nervous system finally jarred awake her previously hazy mind.


    Irene''s hands pushed against Ricky''s chest, trying to push him away but Ricky didn''t care enough to even look while cocking his head up while reveling in this feeling.


    Hungry for more, Ricky pushed deeper as he slammed the rest of his cock into the depths of her being while tearing apart any obstacles in the path of his desire.


    *CLAP*


    "I can''t I-AHHHHHH!" Irene couldn''t even finish her words as Ricky thrusted the rest of his yearning cock into her pussy, hsi waist hitting against her meaty thighs as it signaled the complete demolition of her purity.


    *Hic*


    *Hic*


    Irene let out whimpering cries, her head hitting against Ricky''s chest which jarred him out of his own selfishness as he had realized that he had gone too far.


    However Ricky couldn''t help but first gaze at the beautiful sight that never seemed to tire him as her pussy was perfectly wrapped around the edges of his inserted cock.


    Irene''s pussy twitched with a pain filled intensity, the remnant of her purity seeping out onto his leather seats as Ricky couldn''t help but smile.


    "Your okay, your okay~" Ricky cooed, pulling Irene upwards as her head then rested on his shoulder while he caressed the back of her head , only for her to unconsciously squeeze which made Ricky clench his teeth at the immensely tightening feeling wrapping around him constantly.


    Ricky''s cock was already twitching every now and again, but after feeling this chokehold that Irene''s insides put him into, Ricky felt like he''d lose it if he stood idle for any longer.


    "It really hurts~" Irene whined out, her nails digging into Ricky''s back yet he didn''t even flinch but started kissing her cheek.


    Then his lips transferred to her forehead, before he caressed her cheek until Irene opened her teary eyes.


    Glazed strawberry blond eyelashes fluttered open to see Ricky''s gentle smile as her gorgeous blue eyes looked at him.


    "You''re so strong." Ricky assured her before giving her a light kiss.


    "You''re one of a kind." Ricky started complimenting her as Irene started to actually listen to his words.


    "And today I''m going to make you into the woman you were always meant to be." Ricky then started trailed his kisses down back to her neck before swaying his hips backwards.


    "Ha~" Irene let out a pained moan, feeling the empty feeling course through her at the disappearance of Ricky''s cock in the depths of her being.


    "Ah~" Only for Irene to moan out, lenching Ricky tighter as she felt his cock fill her back up in her entirety.


    Her blue eyes twitching upwards, the pain slowly subsiding as she continuously huffed the scent of Ricky''s being which not only flushed her cheeks, but her walls as well.


    They clamped down on Ricky''s intruding cock desperately, twitching intensively, Irene''s pink walls sought to stop his descent, even for just a second, but all they could do was stretch at his force.


    Irene felt as if she was drowning in Ricky''s being, overwhelmed by his rugged persistence as all she could do was take it.


    "Ha~"


    *Clap*


    "Ha~"


    *Clap*


    "Ha~"


    *Clap*


    Irene''s moans erupted in sync with Ricky''s relentless pounding, his cock slamming into her ever expanding hole as her cries grew louder and more desperate with each powerful thrust into her slick, dripping pussy.


    The car was filled with the raw, carnal sounds of their bodies slamming against one another, each slap of flesh against flesh echoing with a lewd, wet intensity.


    Her pussy clung tightly to his cock, the obscene squelching noises amplifying the heat of their fevered coupling.


    The windows fogged up, encapsulating their fervent passion as Ricky drove deeper into her very guts, his grunts mixing with Irene''s breathless moans in an unabashed symphony of raw, unrestrained lust.


    Irene''s back arched off the seat, her hands continuously clawing at Ricky''s shoulders as he pistoned in and out of her, each thrust sending jolts of electric pleasure through her entire body.


    She could feel every inch of him, stretching her walls, hitting spots that made her vision blur with ecstasy, and forcing her breath to waiver every now and again.


    Her breasts swaying sloppily with each of his thrusts, nipples hard and aching for his touch as Ricky yanked and squeezed them every now and again.


    "F*ck Irene, I''m almost there." Ricky gritted, letting go of her thighs to squeeze her flailing sandbags while putting his entire being into even managing to gain even a little bit further into her pussy.


    Ricky''s pace quickened, a fierce determination in his eyes as he watched Irene writhe beneath him which only served to turn him on even more.


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    Her moans became more frantic, higher-pitched, her body trembling on the edge of release.


    The wet sounds of their coupling grew louder, echoing in the confined space of the car as Ricky''s hands gripped her soft breasts tightly, the supple flesh squeezing between his fingers as he thrust into her with relentless intensity.


    Sweat glistened on their skin, the musky scent of sex filling the air, Irene''s legs unconsciously wrapping around his waist to pull him deeper.


    "Oh gawd, oh gawd~" Irene murmured, finally losing herself in the pleasure as each powerful stroke pushed her closer to the brink, her cries becoming desperate pleas for more.


    As Ricky''s movements became erratic, the telltale signs of his impending climax, he leaned down, capturing her lips in a searing kiss.


    The sensation pushed Irene over the edge, her body tensing as waves of orgasm crashed through her, her pussy spasming around his cock in a vice-like grip.


    With a final, savage thrust, Ricky buried himself to the hilt inside her. His cock pulsing as he flooded her womb with his hot, thick cum.


    "AHHHHHHHH!" Irene broke away from Ricky''s kiss, the sensation of his seed filling her sent Irene over the edge, her body convulsing in a mindless frenzy of pleasure.


    Their combined fluids spilled out, dripping down her thighs and pooling on the car seat beneath them, leaving a sordid mess in the wake of their depraved coupling.


    They stayed locked together, panting and shuddering, savoring the aftershocks of their intense coupling.


    The car was filled with the scent of their spent passion, the windows still fogged from their exertions.


    Ricky finally pulled back, gazing down at Irene with a satisfied smirk, her body still trembling in the aftermath of their wild encounter.


    Cum seeping out of her pussy, spurting onto the leather cushions as she spasmed every now and again before he looked at the mission window.


    ''No, it''s not enough.'' Ricky slicked his hair back while wiping some of the sweat off his forehead.


    ''I didn''t get my full dues with Dolly, so I gotta take advantage of this situation.'' Ricky thought, hsi eyes gazing down at the powerless Irene, too swept up in her own organism to even see the expression on Ricky''s face.


    ''Now I need her to beg for it.'' Ricky thought, one of the main missions being still uncompleted as his cock suddenly shot straight up.


    Irene had always been a good and studious girl, dedicating herself wholly to her family and to God.


    But in this moment, as temptation wrapped its tendrils around her, she found herself smiling, betraying her virtuous facade as she succumbed to the devil''s allure.


    Lining his cock against her pussy once more, he didn''t wait for it to be coated in the cum mixed pussy juice as he prepared for the second round.


    "O-Oh~" Irene stammered out, feeling that empty sensation that she had been reeling in from being filled once more as Ricky cock pushed aside all her walls and arrived at the entrance of her womb once more.


    Only remnants of his thick baby batter remained within her deepest part but Ricky sought to change that as he caressed her cheek.


    His thumb rubbing against her lips before he stuck his thumb into her mouth and stretching it to see her slimy tongue.


    "God Irene, you''re a real slut." Ricky suddenly made a rather harsh remark, but before Irene could even retort or speak a single slurred words, he cocked himself back before thrusting into her with all his might.


    "AH~" Irene slurred out a moan with Ricky''s fingers still swirling in her mouth as his other hand started to slap her jiggling breast.


    "Come on Irene, admit you''re a slut for my cock and I''ll tone it down." Ricky didn''t care if this was horrible or a low bar move, he wanted to get this mission out of the way and get stronger while also having a little fun.


    "I-"


    *CLAP*


    "NRGH~" Irene slurred out, Ricky sticking all of the fingers of his right hand in her mouth as he thrust out with his full force into her tight pussy.


    "Huh, why aren''t you saying anything?" Ricky asked, laughing as she slobbered on his fingers before he started to set a steady, relentless pace.


    His cum mixed with her constant lubrication from her squirting, allowing him to pound her pussy without any restraint.


    Each thrust sent wet, slop filled mush sounds throughout the car, her slick walls twitching and clinging to him with such a welcoming grip that Ricky couldn''t help but feel impressed.


    "Irene, just say it." Ricky laughed, pushing his fingers deeper into her mouth, feeling her tongue writhing against them as she moaned around the intrusion.


    Her eyes rolled back in her head, lost in the overwhelming sensation as her pussy convulsed around his cock, milking him for every drop.


    Ricky''s hips snapped forward with brutal force, his cock plunging into her soaked depths over and over.


    He reveled in the way her body responded, her inner walls spasming and gripping him as if trying to pull him deeper.


    The wet, messy sounds only seemed to grow louder at their barbaric way of grinding their flesh against one another, her juices and his cum mixing into a sticky concoction that dripped down her thighs and pooled beneath them.


    "Irene say it, say it!" Ricky finally took his slime riddled fingers out from her mouth, leaving a trail of saliva, and grabbed her hips, slamming her down onto his cock with feral intensity.


    Grabbing and then pushing her legs all the way back to her shoulders while using it as leverage to get even deeper.


    "I-"


    "Ha~"


    "I''m-"


    "Ah~"


    "I''m a slut~" Irene stammered out, her moans mixing with her coherent sentences as Ricky''s hips slammed into her being.


    The clapping of Ricky''s balls slapping against her ass highlighted the rapid build up of his pace as Ricky very same balls started to swirl, ready to dump the next round of his thick cum deep into her pussy once more.


    "Now where does a slut want me to cum?" Ricky grunted, pinning each of her ankles on either side of her head as it bobbed with the force of his movements.


    "Inside." Irene hazily moaned out, though Ricky wouldn''t be satisfied as his towering strength pummeled into her pussy as her eyes widened.


    "WHERE IRENE!" Ricky yelled as Irene''s head arched up as she opened her mouth.


    "INSIDE MY SLUTTY PUSSY~" Irene whined out, feeling that familiar pressure building that had turned her into this hot mess before as she had completely given into Ricky''s whim.


    Ricky''s control snapped at this moment and with a final, deep thrust, he buried himself in her, his body tensing as he emptied the entire contents that swirled within his balls into her, filling her with his essence.


    Irene could only cry out, her body convulsing in ecstasy as her orgasm washed over her, her walls pulsing around him, milking him for every drop.


    Ricky gave a little thrust as Irene yelped before he pulled out of her once more, a cum mixed trail drooping from the tip of his cum as he opened up the floodgates of her pussy once more.


    As if a dam broke, his cum squirted out of her once more as a sense of deja vu appeared in his head but this time he stood up a little.


    "Now clean up some of the mess you made." Ricky cooed to her, caressing her cheek before guiding the tip of his cock into her panting mouth.


    Unprepared, Ricky''s cock slipped into her extended mouth as she gagged but Ricky''s hand wasn''t meant to comfort her but to keep her from pulling away as he pushed it slightly into her mouth.


    "Relax and untense your throat." Ricky gave advice, slipping his greased up cock deeper into her mouth.


    Irene had never sucked a dick before which clearly showed as at first she tried to swirl her tongue around it only for Ricky to shake his head.


    ''Although disappointing, it will have to do.'' Ricky thought, seeing the mission clear as he closed his eyes while pushing Irene''s head deeper into his cock.


    ''What''s crazy is that this is someone''s daughter.''


    *Ding*


    [Mission received: Irene Jenkins]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: D


    Description: Born into a well-rounded Christian family, Irene had been sheltered her entire life, never even kissing a boy. However, her countless years of diligent studying paid off when she received a full scholarship to a prestigious school. Growing up in such a closed-off household left her with troubled thoughts, longing to experience what her friends in high school desired¡ªmainly boys and alcohol.


    Objective: Knock up this busty redhead and make her realize why its good to learn sex ed.


    Main Mission: 10,000 (Completed)


    Impregnante Irene Once(Completed):


    Choose: 50 Gacha or The choice of Irene''s skills


    Impregnate IreneTwice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnante Irene with her first ever time(Completed)


    Reward: Rare Equipment Coupon


    Get Irene to beg you to come inside her(Completed)


    Reward: Rare/Uncommon skill Coupon


    Make Irene climax with your creampie(Completed)


    Reward: +5 Appearance


    Bonus Missions:


    Get Irene to sloppy clean your dick(Completed):


    Reward IP: 5,000


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    Cum inside Irene two or more times(Completed):


    Reward: +2 Stamina


    ?????????????


    "GET OUT WITH YOUR HANDS UP!"


    Author''s Note: I put the images up of the woman and will make an auxiliary Chapter for them late

 Chapter 23: Full Blooded Gangster

    Chapter 23: Full Blooded Gangster


    *SIGH*


    Ricky, who was enjoying his sloppy clean up job, saw the headlights of Albert''s detective car flash onto him.


    "Alright." Ricky scratched the back of his head, getting out of the car as the headlights revealed his birthday suit.


    "Jiminy cricket, put on some pants Slick!" Albert covered his eyes at the unapologetic Ricky who got out of the car without putting on a single pair of pants.


    "I mean, you''re the one who told me to get out with my hands up." Ricky shrugged laughing at this situation unfolding before him.


    "H-HEY!" Jake shouted, buckling his pants in the process as lipstick stains covered his face and neck.


    "WE DIDN''T DO NOTHING WR-"


    "Oh yeah, then what is that bottle right over yonder?" Albert pointed with a smirk at the bottle, Jake froze at this moment while staring at the empty champagne bottle still lying on the ground.


    "Skid calm down and listen, alright?" Ricky side-eyed Jake while calling him the nickname that Lucky gave him after the getaway.


    "Get that bottle and RUN!" Ricky suddenly shouted as Albert flinched and without hesitation Jake bolted over to the bottle before rushing into the nearby tree line.


    "STOP!" Albert yelled, reaching for the holster at his waist though Jake didn''t even flinch when swiping the bottle and rushing in the woods, already about to descend into the buckling treeline.


    "DAMMIT ST-"


    "What''s more important, the criminal or the evidence?" Ricky suddenly spoke right as Albert was about to chase after Jake.


    "You''re damn lucky you know that?" Albert grunted while taking out some cuffs though stopped after realizing he was still naked.


    "Got it from my pops." Ricky smirked as Albert looked away while pointing to his pants hanging out of the car.


    "Put on some pants boy, unless you want to be taken to the station the same way you were born."


    Ricky hastily pulled on a pair of pants, only to be immediately cuffed by Albert and shoved into the backseat of his car. Albert then slid into the driver''s seat and sped away.


    Moments later, Jake, Rocco, and Edward burst out of the woods, with a woman trailing closely behind.


    "That f*cking pig!" Rocco sneered as he followed Jake who still had the bottle for safe keeping, running over to Ricky''s car.


    "We got to tell Lucky-AH!" Rocco quickly spoke out before suddenly yelling out in shock after seeing the exhausted and bare naked panting Irene.


    "Irene!?" Irene''s friend, who had a fun time with Rocco, yelled in worry while rushing over to her only to blush after seeing Irene''s with a lusty smile.


    "College is the best~" Irene slurred out before collapsing into her friend''s arms as Rocco clicked his tongue.


    "Lucky bastard."


    Meanwhile in the back of Detective Albert''s car,


    Ricky chuckled at his arrest, his eyes meeting the dead-serious gaze of Albert though he couldn''t take him seriously.


    Despite maintaining a straight face, Ricky felt like his body was on fire after receiving ''+5 Appearance.''


    His physique was visibly becoming more toned, his features sharper, and his hair shinier and softer. The main pain, however, lay in his face, where the transformation was most intense.


    "Aw~" Ricky let out a relieved sigh after the pain finally ceased before smiling as he admired himself in the mirror.


    ''Even the angels would weep tears of joy with a face like this.'' Ricky internally bragged before gazing at the transparent blue screen, more specifically the coupons.


    ''Choose the fifty gacha coupons.''


    *DING*


    [Received: 50 gacha coupons.]


    Ricky wasn''t going to use them immediately but instead until he got one hundred since he was guaranteed at least an epic item and he wasn''t that impatient.


    ''I wonder if I can open this rare item coupon in my inventory-''


    *Ding*


    [Received:


    Rare: Gravity Shoes


    Description: Gravity is your b*tch with these shoes, its laws don''t apply to you if the soles of your feet nestle in these soles


    Powers:


    Customization: Can change into any shoe by simply tapping it against it.


    Defy Gravity: Defy gravity]


    ''Cool.'' Ricky thought while gazing at his shoes with intrigue though wouldn''t put them on as of now since he needed to be barefoot for what was to come.


    ''Now the skill.''


    *Ding*


    [Received:


    Green Thumb: Turn waste that won''t decompose for more than 50 years into trees.


    Effects: Works on toxic waste, plastic, rubber, and others.


    ''Uh, I guess it could be a cool party trick.'' Ricky thought since he wasn''t an ecowarrior in any sense and actually contributed to pollution as he would gladly strangle a turtle for a couple plastic straws.


    "You should just release me now." Ricky suddenly spoke up though Albert only sneered while gazing at him through his car mirror.


    "And how are you going to get out of this predicament now? I caught you in possession of alcohol-"


    "What alcohol?" Ricky asked, tilting his head in confusion as Albert scoffed.


    "Your still drunk-"


    "It''s not gonna stick Detective, if I can even call you that now." Ricky laughed as he provoked the only good cop standing in the way of his father.


    Ricky knew all about Albert since he was the opposing faction his father had been trying to wipe out in the department; however, due to his federal ties, he always had trouble finding a good excuse to get rid of Albert, at least until now.


    "Watch your words boy-"


    "You know you''re suspended, right? This arrest is illegal, I know my rights-"


    "Citizens arrest-"


    "Only applies to citizens escaping custody, detective, I know my rights my father made sure I do." Ricky laughed hysterically at this predicament as all those days of listening to Lucky yap about what to say when being pulled over finally paid off.


    "And even if you try to bring this to case, whatever lawyer I hire will make a mockery of you in that court house and-"


    "I SAID SHUT UP!"


    *TWACK*


    *BAM*


    It happened in an instant, Albert, trying to maintain control, gesturing for Ricky to stop talking.


    Instead of complying, Ricky deliberately leaned in, his smirk widening and before Albert could react, he struck Ricky, sending him crashing into the nearby window.


    The impact was jarring; Ricky''s head hit the glass with a dull thud, the window rattling in its frame.


    Shards of light danced across the glass, reflecting the tension in the car as Ricky''s breath fogged the window slightly as he recovered, the sharp lines of his newly enhanced features catching the light as a trail of scarlet suddenly trickled down his face.


    "PUAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky started laughing, the sound grating against the tense atmosphere.


    Albert gazed back in shock, his expression quickly turning to horror as he noticed Ricky''s bleeding head.


    It was just a light cut on his eyebrow, but the blood trickling down made it look far more gruesome than it really was.


    But despite the injury, Ricky''s laughter continued, unnerving Albert even further as he gripped the steering wheel harder.


    "I-I''m-"


    "F*cked?" Ricky finished his taunting words, any trace of guilt vanished from Albert''s eyes.


    He turned around and drove straight to the police station, parking with a screech of tires.


    Angrily, he yanked Ricky out of the car and shoved him forward as Ricky walked with a sense of pride, his steps unwavering.


    Approaching the police station, he didn''t slow down, instead kicking open the door with a defiant swagger.


    "Guess who got assaulted?" Ricky hollered into the station as the entire precinct turned towards the door, instinctively putting their hands on their holster only to become gobsmacked at the sight.


    "Uh oh." Even a random cop could see the oncoming hellfire about to rain down on the station and slowly started to back away towards the bathroom.


    "What is that-WHAT IN THE SAMMY DARN HELL!" Chief Johnston opened his door only to let out a horrified screech at the sight of bloody Ricky.


    "ALBERT!" Chief Johnston''s eyes were vivid as Albert walked in behind Ricky who put his hands up.


    "Chief I got him, he''s drunk and-"


    *SMACK*


    Without hesitation, Chief Johnston smacked Detective Albert out of the very shoes he was situated in as he slid against the clean floor.


    "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO THIS POOR BOY!" Chief Johnston screeched in surprise, and it was only when Albert''s confused eyes turned to Ricky that he realized the full extent of what had happened.


    Blood dripped from Ricky''s face onto his bare chest, the only clothing he wore being a pair of loose-fitting trousers barely buckled on.


    His feet were filthy, caked with dirt, as Albert hadn''t even allowed him to put on shoes.


    Ricky''s overall appearance was a chaotic mess, a stark contrast to his previously confident demeanor.


    The provocation during the car ride wasn''t merely to entertain Albert but to distract him from realizing the full weight of his actions.


    But in that moment, Albert had realized that his paranoid obsession with avenging his friend and bringing down the Luciano family had actually made him cross the line he told himself he''d never cross.


    "Ricky, are ya okay?" Chief Johnston put his hand on his shoulders while looking at the wound.


    "MEDIC, GET ME A F*CKING MEDIC!" Chief Johnston called out as three officers bolted to the scene while taking Ricky to receive urgent treatment.


    "Don''t worry Ricky, yer not in trouble but I want to make sure you''re treated before sending you over to the hospital alright?" Chief Johnston brown nosed, already knowing Lucky was going to chew him out for what happened to his boy but wanted to minimize the damage as much as possible.


    This incident caused the precinct to slowly turn against Albert, even his own allies looked at him in disgust.


    They had supported his fight against corruption, believing him to be a good-natured cop who genuinely wanted to do the right thing.


    However, after witnessing his recent actions, not even his friends could justify his behavior.


    In the end, Ricky was only fifteen, and Albert''s treatment of him shattered the precinct''s faith in Albert''s integrity.


    "Chief I-"


    "Badge." Chief held out his hand as Albert''s eyes convulsed in grief.


    "Chief-"


    "BADGE, NOW!" Chief roared as Albert flinched before ducking his head in shame as he took out his badge and handed it to him.


    Albert looked around before gazing back at the smirking Ricky before realizing that it was all over for him.


    Albert had lost and the surrounding glares had confirmed it as he got up though suddenly bolted when Cheif Johnston pulled out some cuffs.


    "ALBERT, ALBERT GET BACK HERE!" Chief Johnston tried to grab him but Albert managed to get away before hopping back into his car.


    "GET HIM, I WANT HIM IN CUFFS BY THE END OF THE NIGHT!" The Chief roared orders to his officers, who immediately bolted to their patrol cars.


    Albert drove like a madman, swerving into a nearby alley just seconds before police cars swarmed past.


    Realizing his capture was inevitable, Albert abandoned his car and took to the streets on foot.


    Eventually, after ensuring he had lost the pursuing officers, he hurried to a nearby telephone booth, frantically feeding coins into the slot.


    "Come on, come on." Albert spoke as he dialed the number before the phone clicked.


    "Where can I connect you too?"


    "******8 ******* *****."


    "One moment please."


    The phone then started ringing, and Albert anxiously tapped the side of the booth, praying for the call to go through.


    "Hello?" A tired voice sounded from the other end since it was around midnight.


    "THOMAS IT''S ALBERT!" Albert yelled into the phone, causing Thomas to instinctively shy away as his eardrums blared from the sudden loudness.


    "Will you settle down, I just woke up-"


    "Thomas this isn''t a game nor is this a friendly chat, I''m calling you because I know I''m gonna die." Albert bit his lip, his foot tapping incessantly on the floor of the phone booth.


    "Albert what are you-"


    "I messed up Thomas, I got too eager and thought I could take the Luciano family all by myself but I failed." Albert''s eyes started watering after the realization set in that he wouldn''t make it past sunset.


    "Albert, you said that you were going to wait until I transfer to the federal office in Brooklyn!" Thomas yelled in anger as this was Albert''s original backup plan.


    In the past Albert, fueled by suspicion, placed a call to his old friend the notorious district attorney, Thomas E. Dewey.


    Unlike many in the city, Dewey was eager to make a name for himself, using the mafia as a means to do so.


    Thomas and Albert had a long history, going back to their childhoods and when Thomas learned of Albert''s predicament.


    He saw an opportunity to further his own ambitions by working alongside his old friend to rid the city of its evils. However, everything changed when he heard Albert''s words.


    "Albert listen to me very closely, get to the train station and I''ll-" Thomas hurriedly got out of his bed and rushed to his closet before putting on his coat though Albert let out a sad laugh.


    "I''m done for o''l buddy o''l pal." Albert let out a sarcastic laugh as the sounds of sirens were heard in the distance getting closer.


    "But I got all my evidence in a storage locker, my dream is over Thomas but I know that you''ll achieve it for the both of us." Albert''s eyes became littered with tears as his hands started shaking, trying to keep up a strong front but failing miserably.


    "Albert-"


    "Brookylyn station, locker 229, the key is under a rock at the foot of the cherry tree in my backyard and you gotta believe my suscpions." Albert let out sobs as Thomas froze, knowing he was really done for.


    "I know they''re gonna drag my name through the mud but remember one thing." Albert spoke as he turned to see cars that didn''t have any sirens on them pulling up all around him.


    "I ain''t someone to kill himself." Albert sniffling rang out, watching the dirty cops slowly exiting the vehicle with their pistols slowly unholstered.


    *BANG*


    The phone box was suddenly pierced by a bullet as Albert closed his eyes as men rushed at him before dragging him out of the phone booth.


    "ALBERT!" Thomas shouted at the phone as his wife finally awoke and rubbed her eyes.


    "Honey-"


    "ALBERT DON''T YOU DARE GIVE UP ON ME, ALBERT!" Thomas roared in pain though the phone line was already dead.


    "Honey, where are you going!" Thomas''s wife shouted as he bolted out of the room and out of the house.


    Meanwhile at the brooklyn police station,


    Ricky was knocking back a cold one as he patiently waited for the door to be kicked open and Lucky to scream and call him an idiot, the usual thing.


    *BAM*


    Then, the door suddenly kicked open, and Lucky appeared, looking exhausted as if he had run there on foot.


    Ricky didn''t even try to explain himself; knowing he was in for a good ass whooping, then something unexpected happened.


    "Thank the lord all mighty you''re alright." Lucky rushed forward and took the injured Ricky into a hug as he stood speechless for a moment.


    "Uh, you''re my pops right?" Ricky actually asked, since Lucky hadn''t hugged him since he was cradled in a blanket in his arms all those years ago.


    "Shut up." Lucky pulled Ricky tighter into his chest while gripping the back of his head.


    When Lucky received the call, he was initially furious, however, when he heard about Ricky''s injury, all anger flooded away, replaced by a parent''s worry.


    Ricky might not be his biological son, but at that moment, it didn''t matter since he was his son, and nothing would change what Lucky, as a father or adopted father, would do for him.


    "You''re alright." Lucky let out a sigh of relief though it sounded as if he was reassuring himself as Ricky patted his back.


    "Yeah pops, I''m alright." Ricky chuckled as the father son moment lasted for only a couple more seconds before Lucky finally let go.


    "Come on, it''s time." Lucky ordered while walking out of the room as Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "Time for what?" Ricky asked as he stood up as the station provided him with a fresh pair of clothes.


    "It''s time for you to take your right of passage."


    In a dimly lit warehouse, Albert sat on a stool, beaten and bruised, surrounded by his own blood.


    The Luciano family had been torturing him for the last four hours, and his desire to live had been overtaken by a longing for death.


    As Albert squinted his eyes against the sudden brightness of all the lights being turned on at once, his vision blurred, revealing an audience.


    But this was not just any audience; it was the entirety of the Luciano family, gathered to witness a spectacle that would be forever etched into their minds.


    Ricky''s initiation into the Luciano family.


    "Here you go son." Lucky handed Ricky a golden pistol, taking it graciously in front of Albert''s speechless eyes.


    "R-Ricky don''t-"


    *TWACK*


    Ricky closed the distance and pistol-whipped Albert with a brutal strike, causing blood to spray from his mouth.


    *Click*


    "Any last words?" Ricky asked, pressing the gun right against his temple as Albert looked up with deep regret.


    In a way, Albert blamed himself for what had happened to Ricky since he had all the opportunities to ''save'' him yet he failed time and time again.


    "I''m sorry." Albert showed the truth in his tone while closing his eyes as Ricky chuckled.


    "I''m not."


    *BANG*


    Ricky pulled the trigger without a hint of emotion, the hammer of his pistol thrust forward, releasing a spark that ignited the bullet within the chamber.


    In an instant, the bullet shot out with incredible force, tearing through Albert''s head.


    The projectile tore through his flesh and bone with ruthless efficiency, exiting out the back of his skull.


    A spray of blood followed, the last remnants of life clinging to Albert stolen away by the instinctual click of Ricky''s gun.


    A heavy silence descended upon the warehouse as the Luciano crime family, gathered as spectators, stared in shock at the scene before them.


    Ricky had taken Albert''s life without a second of hesitation, and the weight of that act hung heavily in the air.


    "Slick!"


    "Slick!"


    "Slick!"


    "Slick!"


    "SLICK!"


    "SLICK!"


    "SLICK!"


    "SLICK!"


    Cheers of acceptance roared out, enveloping Ricky in a wave of appreciation unlike anything he had ever felt before.


    He felt the change, not the change those above speak about to bait the lower masses, but real change.


    Gazing at the floating system that gave him the power to do whatever he wanted, Ricky couldn''t help but feel the lust of it.


    In this moment, the lust for power had finally ensnared his soul, fueling a never-ending hunger within him.


    For a long time, Ricky had hesitated to cross the line that held him back, but today was different.


    Today, the weight of hesitation and restraint had lifted from Ricky''s shoulders. The events of the day, the culmination of years of building ambition and suppressed desires, had pushed him over the edge.


    Ricky had crossed a line he had never dared to approach before, and now that he had, there was no turning back.


    The taste of power, the rush of adrenaline, and the newfound respect from the Luciano family fueled a fire within him, propelling him further into the depths of his own ambition.


    As he reveled in the adulation, Lucky looked on proudly at the son who, just yesterday, had seemed like a mere kid scamming his men out of their belongings.


    Ricky raised his hands, and the cheers elevated to new heights and with a sleazy smile, he basked in the newfound respect and admiration from the Luciano crime family.


    ''What a wonderful day.''

 Chapter 24: A Stroll Into Harlem

    Chapter 24: A Stroll Into Harlem


    Author''s Note: I know I haven''t really shown much confrontation between races since people back then usually stuck to their own group, like the italians, but this is a warning since back then when Jim Crow was still in effect it was just a regular thing to be so open about your distaste so don''t come at me with pitchforks for my interpretation of the 1930s.


    A week later,


    "Extra! Extra! Detective commits suicide in shame after arresting an innocent kid!" A newspaper salesman roared at the bustling traffic of brooklyn.


    "Here." Thomas gave him one nickel as the paperboy tipped his hat before continuing to shout out.


    Thomas scanned the paper briefly before crumpling it and tossing it aside, a newfound determination shining on his face.


    It dangled in the oncoming wind as the newspaper slowly unraveled itself from being crumpled seconds before as it revealed the headline..


    ''Detective Albert commits suicide after arresting innocent kid!''


    Meanwhile In Lucky''s Office,


    "So that''s how you''re gonna fill up the hole that is bootlegging?" Ricky took a sip of rum, asking as Lucky nodded his head.


    Every mob within the commission was already scrabbling around trying to find out a way to fill the massive profit machine that was bootlegging.


    During this time, bootlegging and rum running were highly profitable ventures, with even the lowest earning families in the commission making at least 35% in profits from its area.


    All the families had plans for their newfound focus, and Lucky eagerly took over the prostitution racket, which had been left rather untouched since his old boss died.


    "Now with no other crime boss to stop us and their attention divided as it is already, our family is gonna take over all the small scale prostitutes rings which will not only fill the gap of bootlegging, but also elevate us even higher." Lucky smirked proudly, telling Ricky his plans without hesitation.


    Now that he was officially part of the Luciano family, Ricky inherited all of his predecessor''s thoughts and plans. However, this role also came with a new perk that he hadn''t been entitled to before.


    Ricky actually got a voice in the decisions.


    "How are you gonna move all this new money cause our small businessness won''t be able to clean all this dirty cash flow?" Ricky questioned, unable to figure out how Lucky was going to move all this new dirty money, only to see Lucky smirk while playing with a card.


    "That''s where you come in Ricky, I''m going to hand part of this problem to you." Lucky choice made Ricky stand up in shock.


    "Wait, but-"


    "No buts, being a leader doesn''t require being just strong but smart, figure it out, WITHOUT help from your boys." Lucky waved Ricky off, who frowned but nodded, rubbing his temple as he headed to the door.


    "Good luck." Lucky shouted right as Ricky was about to leave before halting his steps.


    "Luck is for fools." Ricky smirked while repeating the thing that Lucky always said.


    "That''s my boy."


    Ricky decided to take a walk through the streets, receiving nods and respectful gazes throughout the territory since his position within the family had been completely solidified, seemingly demanding respect from those around him.


    It wasn''t an entirely new feeling for him; over the five years of being Lucky''s son, he had grown accustomed to the respect. However, this newfound level of notoriety was still a little strange to him.


    With the notoriety came responsibility, an entirely new challenge for him as Ricky found this far more difficult than the prospect of reincarnating with a system.


    Honestly, Ricky didn''t know how to process his father''s sudden announcement and struggled to make sense of what to do next.


    An hour passed, and without realizing it, Ricky ended up in the heart of Harlem, letting out a haggard sigh.


    "I need a drink." Ricky muttered to himself, noticing the weird and scared looks from everyone around him.


    It took him a couple of seconds to realize that he was the only white guy in these streets, which were filled to the brim with African Americans.


    Harlem, originally a white-only neighborhood, had undergone a transformation as New York slowly became a hub for all walks of life.


    On orders from the local government, African Americans were basically pushed into residing in this controlled district that made up Harlem, and soon after, all the white folks moved out.


    Feeling the weight of being unwanted in these streets, Ricky''s eyes darted around until they landed on a club with big, bold letters.


    ''The Cotton Club.''


    Looking around, Ricky saw that the front entrance was closed, however right as he was about to kick rocks, he saw a back door.


    "Let''s hope they''ll serve minors." Ricky smiled while strolling into the club which was completely desolate since it was still mid day.


    The only people here were two old day drinkers sitting at the bar and a lone bartender to serve him.


    "A-Ah, are you here for Owney Mad-" The bartender suddenly asked, thinking this young white gentleman was here for business.


    "Nope, here for a drink." Ricky plopped onto the seat right between the two old black men who raised wary glances at him.


    It wasn''t hostility but rather slight fear, wriggling around in their seats in an uncomfortable manner at Ricky''s forthright attitude.


    "S-Sir the w-white section is over there." The bartender tried to inform Ricky as he turned to see a white waiter waving at him though no one was in the seats.


    ''I ain''t that depressed to drink alone.'' Ricky thought, thinking he was in too good of a mood to simply sit at the bar and drink, wanting to chat with someone as he gained a buzz.


    "I''m good." Ricky shook his head before slapping a hundred on the bar, startling the bartender since that had to be the biggest bill he''d ever seen in his life.


    "Put this on my credit, get me and my fellow drunkards three of your finest whiskeys on the rocks." Ricky laughed while nudging the two men who were coldly gazing at him before they turned to surprise.


    "R-Right away!" The man eagerly took the bill and started filling it up with illegal liquor.


    "Ya got a name boy?" The old man smirked after setting down his empty glass.


    "Ricky, but just call me Slick."


    3 hours later,


    "L-Looky here~" In the bar, a drunken Ricky found himself surrounded by around thirty black folks.


    Ricky had managed to find his buzz and further it into a drunken state quite fast, inciting laughs from his fellow drunkards.


    Word spread fast and more people started to trickle into the wild antics of the random white boy causing a riot within the club.


    Holding up a trumpet he stumbled upon, Ricky proceeded to play the most god-awful tune, showcasing his lack of rhythm as the group burst out laughing at the discordant sounds emanating from the instrument.


    "Hey Booker, what did ya think of my tune!" Ricky boisterously laughed to his new friend, the bartender known as Booker Rhodes who served in this state.


    "God awful." Booker laughed as the surrounding people roared in agreement with their laughs echoing through the bar.


    "Oh what, can you do better?" Ricky wobbled on the table, holding out the trumpet yet Booker hesitated.


    "I ain''t all that-"


    "Oh come on, don''t be such a pussy and show me how it''s done." Ricky slurred his words as the crowd excitedly urged him into it, but Booker continued to shake his head.


    "I''m not getting on the counter-"


    "Booooooooooo!" The crowd booed with Ricky leading the mob, the peer pressure mounting until he finally climbed onto the counter and grabbed the trumpet from Ricky''s hands.


    He took a deep breath, the weight of the moment heavy on his shoulders and as he began to play, the room fell silent, captivated by the raw emotion pouring from his instrument.


    Booker Rhodes unleashed a passionate melody, a soulful rhyme clouded in the blues of a man who had known heartache.


    His music painted a vivid picture of the struggles of a black man supporting not only his parents but also his wife and two kids.


    Booker bared his soul to anyone who would listen, pouring his heart out through his music and the crowd was in awe, including Ricky.


    In that moment without even knowing it, Ricky unknowingly changed the course of Booker''s life.


    Booker, who was destined to be a 9-5 bartender, found his wings through Ricky''s encouragement.


    "WHY THE F*CK IS THE FIRST THING I SEE IS A BUNCH OF NEGRO''S GATHERED AROUND A DIRTY F*CKING NI-"


    "HEY DIPSH*T, I''M TRYING TO LISTEN SO WILL YA SHUT THE F*CK UP!" Ricky jerked his head around to a fat drunk white guy, frustrated at the sudden interruption when wanting to relish his buzz in Booker''s tune.


    "If it isn''t an actual ni***** lover in the flesh, haven''t seen one of you in a while but it makes since that cotton picker lovers hang out in the cotton club!" The drunken fat man roared in laughter at his own words as if it was the funniest thing he''d ever seen, slamming his hand on the counter repeatedly.


    "What the f*ck did you just say-" Ricky''s eyebrow twitched, about to drunkenly bash his face in only for a hand to appear on his shoulder.


    "Wait, Slick." Booker stopped Ricky since after talking for an hour, Ricky finally managed to convince him it was alright to call him by his nickname.


    "That''s Owney''s brother in law, you know, the owner of this club, Owney Madden?" Booker tried to persuade Ricky who scoffed with a scorn riddled laughter.


    "It''s best to leave him be and besides Slick, ima strong fella who can take a little slack-" Booker patted his shoulder, thinking that Ricky was sticking up for him.


    "Huh, when did this become about you?" Ricky asked with a confused expression, about to beat the crap about him for talking sh*t to him rather than being racist to Booker.


    "This is about him disrespecting me and the name I represent." Ricky tapped his chest, keenly aware that any insult aimed at him was also a slight against the family, because he''s a Luciano.


    "What name, Slick?" Booker asked weirdly, thinking Ricky was far off his rocker.


    "Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you Booker but guess what my last name is?" Ricky suddenly realized, seeing Booker confused at his question.


    "Ricky?" Booker asked, thinking all he knew was Ricky''s first name.


    "Not only that but the one and only, Ricky motherf*cking Luciano." Ricky patted his chest, almost falling off the table at his own gesture.


    "L-Luciano!!!!" Booker didn''t realize until the last name registered.


    Despite living far from Brooklyn, he had heard of the Luciano family through the various second handed stories he''d encountered as a bartender.


    "But even then, it''d be best to not pick a fight with him-"


    "Yeah f*ggot, you best listen to yer little boyfriend and f*ck off!" The drunkard spouted off, the already drunken and easily influenced Ricky snapping at this lackluster provocation.


    He pushed Booker off of him and lunged off the table, dropping onto the ground with a thud before sprinting at him.


    *BAM*


    The drunken man couldn''t react as Ricky''s fist plunged into his greasy cheek, pushing him backwards and disrupting his balance.


    The man stumbled back, trying to regain his balance, but before he could, Ricky gripped the hair on the back of his head and slammed it down onto the whites-only counter.


    *BAM*


    "THE F*CK YOU CALL ME? SAY IT AGAIN!" Ricky drunkenly roared, the alcohol clouding his reasoning as he held the man''s face up, blood trickling from his nose.


    *BAM*


    "C''MON, WHAT DID YOU SAY?"


    *BAM*


    "F*CKING ANSWER ME!"


    Ricky mercilessly slammed the man''s head into the table, blood and teeth staining its surface until he then threw him to the ground, revealing his battered face.


    It was excessive, but to uphold his reputation within the Luciano family, Ricky had to confront anyone who spoke ill of it, whether indirectly or directly.


    Some of the surrounding witnesses flinched, but most showed smiles since this old drunkard was hated around these parts.


    The man''s name was Sammy O''Conel, and he had only come to the Cotton Club for the free drinks.


    However, for the entirety of his stay, Sammy had heckled any and all men and women who would listen.


    Spewing constant badmouthing and racial slurs, he would even go far with the woman as well while fondling them and beating up any man who tried to stand up for them, knowing he could get away untouched.


    Sammy was the type of person who found satisfaction in making others'' days as miserable as his own life.


    However, Owney always brushed it off as harmless, citing Sammy''s First Amendment right to free speech.


    And why punish him for exercising that right?


    Over time, the regulars at the Cotton Club got used to Sammy''s antics, until one day, he tried to heckle someone who should never have been heckled in the first place.


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    Ricky didn''t stop there; his anger flared when he saw his opponent''s face, and he began stomping on him, his heel digging into his body.


    "WHAT IN TARNATION IS GOING ON HERE!" Owney strolled into his own establishment before screeching at the sight of his brother-in-law being stomped into oblivion.


    "GET YOUR HANDS-by the hands of mother mary." Owney was about to pull Ricky off of him until he recognized just who his hands laid on.


    *BAM*


    Ricky, without batting an eye, sent a right hook right at Owney''s throat as the Irish gangster gripped his neck.


    "KUERK!" Owney let out a gargled air of breath as Ricky sent another punch into his gullet.


    *GASP*


    "You want some too, huh?" Ricky grabbed Owney''s hair as he desperately tried to shake his head only for a knee to be thrusted into his face.


    "Of course you do." Ricky spoke for him while throwing Owney to the ground before grabbing the glass that was recently poured for Owney''s brother in law and downed it.


    "Ah, that''s good stuff~" Ricky wiped his mouth while looking at Booker who was frozen in shock.


    "Aye Booker." Ricky wobbled while pointing at Booker still holding the trumpet as he flinched almost immediately.


    "Where is this owner you spoke of, I''ve decided to make a very reckless decision." Ricky spoke words which made Booker wary though pointed at the down man.


    "Right there, Slick." Booker pointed as the other nodded in response as Ricky scratched his head.


    "No sh*t." Ricky looked down in surprise at the unconscious Owney before nodding his head.


    "Well whatever." Ricky shrugged before taking Owney''s collar and dragging him away.


    "Where is this guy''s office?" Ricky drunkenly asked Booker who anxiously scratched his head.


    "It''s in the main establishment, Slick." Booker informed as the crowd looked down instinctively.


    "Then come over here and help me take him to his office so I can have a proper word with him." Ricky tried to lug him though he was too heavy as Booker bit his lip.


    "I can''t enter, it''s a white only-"


    "Jesus f*cking christ Booker, get your ass over here before I pull out a gun and make you do it!" Ricky yelled, unwilling to engage in a heartfelt moment about his apparent uncaring attitude towards Booker''s return into the white only establishment.


    All he wanted was to get to the unconscious guy''s office and Booker did as his name suggested and quickly made his way over to Ricky, helping carry his boss towards the main area of the Cotton Club.


    The club revealed itself to a drunken Ricky, who couldn''t care less if the stage was made of gold as his sole focus was on carrying the unconscious Owney to his office.


    "Phew~" Ricky and Booker let out almost at the same time once they set him on a chair.


    *BURP*


    "Cewel desssk." Ricky slurred his words, reaching new heights of drunkenness as he sat at the pristine wooden desk, only for Booker to misinterpret his words.


    "Slick, it''s not ''jeweled'' it''s wooden." Booker instinctively corrected Ricky before flinching as his face beamed pale at what he had just done.


    Never in his life did he ever correct a white man since if he did, a beating would surely come afterwards causing him to prepare for the worst.


    *PFFFT*


    "Did I say Jeweled?" Ricky let out a drunken laugh while clutching his belly while leaning back in Oweny''s chair.


    "N-N-N-No I m-m-m-m-misheard-"


    "Oh relax Booker, I''m not gonna lynch you." Ricky joked only to see that it clearly didn''t make Booker laugh but instead terrified.


    *Sigh*


    "Listen Booker, I really don''t give a f*ck if you were purple. The only thing that matters is if you''re annoying or not, and you''re pretty cool." Ricky tried to calm the visibly shaking Booker since he knew all too well what happened to people who spoke their mind.


    In this era, Jim Crow laws enforced rampant segregation between whites and blacks however unlike in the south, the north was a little more tolerant.


    Ironically, despite its name, the Cotton Club was inaccessible to black people, who were relegated to a shabby area located to the side of the club where they could only drink for inflated prices.


    The only time a black man was ever seen in the Cotton Club was if they were performing there for the white guests.


    While segregation in Northern states like New York was not as rigid as in places like the south, it was still present.


    Segregation in the North was often economic and informal rather than official.


    For example, it wasn''t "illegal" for black and white students to attend the same school, but school districts would be drawn so that mostly black students would attend a particular school.


    But even then, some white students would attend mostly black schools and vice versa.


    When white families found themselves in a black-majority area, they often moved to mostly white suburbs, encouraged by practices like redlining and declining property values, which led to a popularized term called white flight.


    This was a primary way racism manifested in Northern states, however, tolerance did not equate to equality, and not everyone considered themselves equal to their fellow man.


    "O-Ohhhh~" Owney let out a pained groan as Ricky raised an eyebrow, not at the whining man, but at the object lying under the table.


    "Look at this beauty." Ricky admired the pistol in his hand that was found under the desk, waving it around as Booker ducked right when the barrel hovered towards him.


    "Jesus Mary and Joseph, I''m gonna be shot by some white boy.'''' Booker was scared out of his wits end when Ricky suddenly pulled out a pistol and started waving it around as he grabbed his chest.


    "What is-R-RICKY WAIT!" Owney looked up before the memory of his encounter with Ricky was jarred to the forefront of his mind with the sight of him waving around a gun.


    "I-I didn''t know and Sammy was wrong-"


    "Oh shut up, you don''t even know what he did." Ricky almost sneezed from being so allergic to his BS, waving the gun in his hand as if to try to dismiss the smell of it.


    "Ricky can''t we talk-"


    *Burp*


    "How come you''re the only one here that seems to know who I am?" Ricky asked, leaning on his hand while Owney gulped when gazing at his own pistol in Ricky''s hand.


    "T-The Italian mafia''s tend to keep to themselves more than others, but I''d be a fool not to know the son of Lucky Luciano." Owney buttered Ricky up and told him the whole truth.


    Unlike the other gangs in terms of notoriety and outward influence, the scars from Silicy ran deep within the Italian mobs which is why they were so insistent on keeping their names on the low outside their own territories.


    This was real reason no one truly knew Ricky''s appearance since earlier on, Lucky had invested heavily in protecting his identity along with the other members.


    Yet, despite these efforts, there were always outliers.


    "I know he was wrong." Owney stuck with his words as Ricky let out a dry laugh before pointing the waving gun at him.


    "Ya know I feel really insulted, so how are you going to make it up to me?" Ricky raised an eyebrow, speaking as if it wasn''t himself that started everything while forcing Owney to bite his lip.


    "Anything Slick, I''ll do anything to get out of your hair." Owney closed his eyes, praying he could simply get out of this situation while Ricky nodded with a relieved face.


    "That''s great, real great, then I''ll just tell you what I want." Ricky laughed heartily as he gazed at Owney who forced a laugh to join in.


    "I want this club."

 Chapter 25: An Drunken Irish Fender Bender

    Chapter 25: An Drunken Irish Fender Bender


    "I''m sorry Slick can you-"


    *BANG*


    "JESUS!" Oweny flinched and yelled, throwing his arms over his head as Ricky fired the pistol into the air.


    Booker immediately hit the deck, seeking cover from the sudden eruption of noise and chaos.


    "There are two ways you''re walking out of here and it''s either when you''re carried out due to extreme blood loss or a new man without ownership of this fine establishment." Ricky laughed out drunkenly, gazing at the pale Owney who slowly let out a furious expression.


    "Do you know who your f*cking with Slick, I''m apart of the Irish Mafia-"


    "Oh who cares~" Ricky scoffed, finding that Oweny''s reasoning didn''t align with his current thought process while Oweny, feeling the tension, bit his lip, unsure of how to proceed.


    "Give me the deed or I''m going to shoot you until I get it." Ricky gave him an ultimatum as Owney scoffed while crossing his arms.


    "Your bluffing-"


    *BANG*


    "AHHHHHHH!" Owney let out a pained scream as the bullet from his own gun tore through his shoulder, blood rushing down his arm in a crimson torrent.


    "YOU SHOT ME, YOU LUNATIC YOU ACTUALLY SHOT ME!" Owney roared at Ricky without a hint of fear as Ricky looked down at the shaking Booker.


    "Hey Booker, where does he keep the deed cause I think only when I know, will he cave in." Ricky asked Booker who looked up only to flinch when he saw Owney''s eyes.


    "BOOKER, I PAY YOUR SALARY AND-"


    *Click*


    "How much does he pay you?" Ricky cocked the gun, pointing it at the furious Owney who froze, shutting his yapping mouth in an instant.


    "5-5-5-5-50 cent''s an hour sir." Booker spoke in a formal tone, bowing his head as Ricky scoffed.


    "That''s it?"


    "Here, you work for me now." Rick rummaged through his pocket and grabbed out a crumbled hundred and threw it in front of Booker''s eyes.


    Booker froze at the sight of the hundred-dollar bill.


    The largest bill he had ever held was a twenty which was safely tucked away in a tube sock at the back of his dresser.


    However, this hundred-dollar bill lay right in front of him, tempting him with the possibility of taking it for himself.


    "In his walls safe in the back." Booker''s greed to support his family far outweighed his fear of Owney.


    The average black resident within Harlem made around 1,300 dollars a year and this was about one tenth of his yearly salary.


    "YOU SON OF A B*TCH-"


    "Thank you Booker, and now please give me the deed." Ricky gestured to Oweny who bit his lip while looking at his arm then back to Ricky.


    "If you think your Daddy can protect you after this stunt, then you''re dead wrong." Owney let out a hiss while walking over to the safe.


    Owney started opening the wall safe but when he turned around he saw Ricky on the phone, he raised an eyebrow.


    "Yeah, put me through to the Luciano residence." Ricky said to the operator as the phone clicked.


    "How the f*ck did you get this line."


    "Pops, it''s me."


    "Slick?"


    "Do you by chance know Owney Madden?"


    "The killer? Yeah I know that f*cker, he and his gang offload our bootlegging shipments sometimes."


    "You''re kidding."


    "Yeah, but that bugger never leaves that cesspool of Harlem, much less his cotton club and don''t get me started with that police station."


    This whole conversation made Owney Madden''s face pale since his gang was able to profit so much due to hijacking shipments from the Italian mafia.


    "He even has a bounty of 50,000 bounty put up for his head-"


    "Wait Slick, I was only joshing ya-"


    *BANG*


    *THUMP*


    "AHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    "Slick, what was that!?" Lucky shouted from the other side of the phone as Ricky shot Owney again before clicking his tongue.


    "Dang it, I was aiming for your head." Ricky grimaced as Owney started to whine out in pain as Booker crawled away from the scene.


    "You were totally bluffing Owney, what do you have to say about yourself?" Ricky mocked a crying Owney as he slid down while leaving a trail of blood on the wall.


    "P-Please don''t kill me-"


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    "Aye pops, I got him." Ricky spoke on the phone as a maddening laugh was let out by Lucky.


    "Can you send a couple boys over here to help clean up?" Ricky spoke at Lucky who started hitting his desk.


    "Yeah champ, I''ll send some guys over there but I think I have a way to squash that pesky Irish mob once and for all."


    "Oh yeah, what''s that?" Ricky asked him and on the other end, Lucky''s face slowly turned up a cold ruthless smile.


    "Let your old pops handle this one, just sit back and relax my boy."


    4 hours later,


    "Owney where are you at!" A man with a thick irish accent yelled out as men gathered in the cotton club.


    This was Owney Madden''s partner, Bill Dwyer, and he faithfully ran the Irish mob along with Owney Madden.


    "That scamp always does this." Another man walked with a drink in his hand before taking a seat at the table.


    This man was Owney''s and Bill''s right hand man who did all the dirty work that they didn''t have time for, George ''Big Frenchy'' DeMange.


    The Irish mob usually held meetings or met up for important discussions at the cotton club and after hearing from some of the workers here that Owney was calling a meeting, they all came.


    *Sigh*


    "I swear, the night life is really getting to him." Bill plopped down on a chair as the other remembers started laughing at this.


    Then without any greetings, the Luciano family burst into the Cotton Club, Tommy guns in hand, catching the Irish mob completely off guard.


    Not hesitating, the Luciano family''s fingers clenched the triggers as the bullets screamed out from the guns, creating an ear deafening symphony of gunfire.


    The once lively Cotton Club was now a gruesome one sided slaughter, its elegant decor marred by the grotesque scene unfolding within.


    The Irish mobsters stood no chance against the merciless ambush, they were simply torn apart by the hail of bullets, their bodies jerking and convulsing with each impact.


    Blood sprayed from their wounds, painting the walls and floors crimson. Their limbs were torn from bodies, and screams of agony filled the air, only to be drowned out by the relentless gunfire.


    The air was thick with the acrid stench of gunpowder, mixing with the metallic tang of blood. The floor became slick with gore, making every step treacherous.


    The once vibrant music was now drowned out by the symphony of violence, the clatter of gunfire and the sickening thud of bodies hitting the ground.


    When the gunfire finally ceased, the only sound that remained was the soft moaning of the wounded and the harsh gasps of the dying.


    The Cotton Club, once a symbol of glamor and entertainment, was now a macabre tableau of death and destruction.


    This gruesome point in history would later be coined the ''Great Irish Massacre'' which would be a bloody affair that would forever change the landscape of Harlem in the future.


    The Luciano family''s ruthless efficiency in eliminating their rivals ensured that they would dominate the criminal underworld in Harlem as Ricky had accidently secured it.


    The only reason for this being his appearance wasn''t notorious to be easily recognized like his other family members which allowed for the scene to unfold, if he had entered the underworld maybe even a year or two earlier then he would easily have been clean out.


    However, by sheer luck mixed with his lack of notoriety, he managed to unknowingly accomplish his single goal, all in one day.


    Walking out from the side, Ricky looked at the only survivor, Bill, one of the few Irish mobsters still clinging to life, looked at him with a hint of defiance.


    But that hint of life was extinguished as Ricky took a swig of a nearby bottle of rum before pointing his tommy gun at him.


    *BANG*


    A hole appeared in Bill''s head, that hatred solidifying himself on his face for eternity as he went limp against the bloody floor.


    "Give up to Slick, the one who was able to wipe out those pesky Irish wannabe''s!" Lucky roared, sticking up Slick''s arm as the other mobsters cheered.


    "You did it Slick, and in one goddamn day!" Lucky patted Ricky''s back as he nodded, still completely sh*t faced.


    "Now we can move all that money through the night clubs previously under the irish mob." Lucky smiled viciously.


    He''d had his eyes on Harlem''s nightlife for a while, but Owney, that slippery rat, always managed to hide where he felt safe.


    Now, though, it was all about to fall under the Luciano family''s control after some well-placed coercion and a few strategic payoffs.


    "From today onward, you''re gonna be in charge of these nightclubs ya here?" Lucky patted Ricky''s shoulder as he nodded before holding up his bottle of booze.


    "LET''S PARTY!" Ricky roared, ignoring the terrifying responsibility for another day only to see laughs resound as Lucky joined in.


    "Let''s clean up this mess first then party, alright?" Lucky spoke as Ricky fist pumped before taking a long swig of the bottle of rum.


    "What do you need, pops?" Ricky asked only for an address to be shoved into his chest and the rum bottle taken out of his hand.


    "We''re gonna take Harlem in one fell swoop and that means any other operations need to burn down in the aftermath." Lucky nodded to the side, the ones not busy cleaning up the bodies hurried out.


    "You''re side lining me, what the f*ck?" Ricky frowned, knowing full well he was being purposely put out of the raids.


    *Smack*


    "Don''t bad mouth me, this is important." Lucky smacked the back of his head, Ricky rubbing it with an even heavier frown.


    "Round up ya boys and go take care of these operations, you''re the only one I can trust with this." Lucky grabbed both his shoulders with Ricky sighed, grabbing back his bottle of rum and walking out of the club.


    "Fine, but next time I''m leading the charge!" Ricky yelled, Lucky nodding with Meyer walking up to his side.


    "Aye Lucky, can I talk to you for a sec?" Meyer asked, gesturing to the side before they went a little ways away.


    "This is about the jewish mob, correct?" Lucky could already tell, Meyer ducking his head slightly since they both knew how important his faith is to him.


    "Listen, I get you''re afraid of retaliation from the jewish mob, but we''ll pin the blame on the irish mob and make good with them with a hefty pay out." Lucky patted his shoulder, pulling out a cigar and lighting it.


    "I don''t know Lucky, the jewish mob has been acting weird lately and-" Meyer was about to ramble until he saw Lucky''s deadpan expression.


    "SIGH*


    "No you''re right, I just gotta calm down and see the bigger picture." Meyer understood immediately and Lucky laughed, putting his arm around him and leading him to the office.


    "Come on, let''s go cheer you up by checking Owney''s books."


    20 minutes later,


    "This is stupid." Rocco kicked rocks while getting some gasoline, filling it up before getting another one.


    "Preach." Ricky, on top of the hood, drank the rum and Jake shook his head.


    "Slick Lucky''s right on this one, it will look bad to the other guys if you keep getting handed every opportunity." Jake became the voice of reason but Edward stopped munching on his snacks.


    "I don''t know, everyone I talk to likes Slick." Edward shrugged but Rocco was the one to scoff at this one.


    "They ain''t gonna tell Slick''s buddies they got a problem, doofus." Rocco shook his head, looking at Edward as if he was an idiot.


    "All I''m saying is that we do these tedious jobs and overtime when we get handed better roles, no one will argue making our lives easier." Jake came to the conclusion, Ricky throwing the bottle into the trash.


    "Whatever the case is, let''s get it over with so we can get wasted and party." Ricky helped Rocco get the gasoline tankers in the trunk before getting in the passenger seat.


    As the sun slowly dipped below the horizon, dusk settled over Harlem as the streets gradually emptied, the residents having heard whispers of an impending takeover.


    "Hurry up." Ricky yelled as he watched the sun slowly set, its fading light casting long shadows.


    Watching Rocco dousing the sides of an Irish mob operation with gasoline, the pungent scent filling the air.


    Looking at the note, Ricky saw all the addresses they needed to burn into smithereens but at the very top of the list was the signal for the family to start their takeover.


    This plan was designed to draw the fire department to the outskirts of town, while Lucky''s bribes ensured they were kept busy containing the blazes, unable to interfere with the real operation.


    "Alright do it Slick." Rocco threw the gas container at the wall, running while Ricky tucked a cloth into a bottle of vodka.


    Ricky set the ragged end of the makeshift Molotov cocktail aflame and hurled it at the wall.


    It exploded in an orange blaze, the flames greedily consuming every gasoline-soaked surface before spreading hungrily to the rest of its surroundings.


    Flames erupted in a terrifying blaze as the four young mobsters quickly hurried back into their car.


    "Holy sh*t!" Rocco said what everyone was thinking, seeing the flames tower of the warehouse.


    *BOOM*


    They all flinched as the warehouse roof exploded, sending a large cloud of smoke billowing into the air, mingling with the fiery blaze below.


    "Where to next?" Ricky asked, everyone looking at each other then letting out maddening pyromaniacal laughs.


    Upon the smoke signal, Harlem began to rage in gunfire with Irish screams dousing the ears of the fearful residents.


    Those who understood what was happening watched attentively as the new invaders moved, while the unaware panicked and scrambled desperately to avoid any unjustified wrath.


    Slowly, Harlem night sky was cloudy in black smoke with subtle hints of ash sprinkling down as a result of Ricky''s actions until they made their way to one place.


    "Whoa wait, we can''t be here." Jake suddenly stopped the other three, seeing the sign of David the jewish mob painted on their buildings as a marker.


    "Why not?" Rocco asked with a scoff, walking forward only for Jake to hold him back.


    "Cause dipsh*t, that isn''t a part of the Irish mob but the jewish one." Jake pushed him back, Rocco flinched and Ricky was also surprised.


    "No, it clearly says here this is the address." Ricky looked at the sign while Jake shook his head, going over to his side.


    "It can''t be?" Jake grabbed the paper, Ricky looking at both Rocco and Edward who shrugged.


    "Maybe we should back off-" Edward tried to be the bridge of peace but Ricky shook his head.


    "We can''t, my pops wouldn''t make such a big mistake like this, it needs to be done." Ricky grabbed some of the gasoline and walked to the side.


    "But Slick-" Rocco tried to counter only to see Ricky''s cold gaze.


    "It needs to be done." Ricky''s face showed there wasn''t any room for reason, shutting up both Edward and Rocco in a second.


    Ricky started dumping the contents of the last remaining contents of gasoline onto the side of the building, the smell coursing into a nearby window which entered the nose of three guys on watch that night.


    "What''s that smell?" One of them looked at the other two before they looked at each other.


    *PFFFT*


    "Not like that you numbskulls, I mean it smells like gas." He countered but his words only made his friends laugh even harder.


    "Screw you guys, I''ll go check it out myself." He scoffed, pushing one of his friends who was hollering at his poor choice of words.


    The young man marched to the rear side door, opening it and about to pull out a cigarette only to freeze.


    Ricky, currently pouring a thing of gasoline, also froze in place as they looked at each other for a brief second.


    The man immediately went to scream but Ricky dove at him, covering his mouth as muffled sounds resounded from the back.


    "Aye did you hear that?" One of them said, looking at the one picking up some of his cards.


    "It''s probably gas." The man said in a straight face, looking at him before they snickered out laughter once more.


    "Bring me some rope!" Ricky yelled in a whisper, Rocco and Edward flinching before grabbing some rope from the trunk.


    "Petey?" Jake widened his eyes, letting out a fearful whisper as he watched Ricky cover his mouth while Rocco and Edward swiftly tied him up.


    Putting one of the rags in Petey''s mouth, Ricky stood up only to see Jake frozen in place as he sighed.


    "I''m going to take care of the ones inside, you all stay here until I get back." Ricky pulled out his pistol, knowing that it would be easier for him to do it himself.


    Walking inside, Ricky slowly dipped around from corner to corner, checking them though this entire operation seemed to be desolate of people.


    "You f*cker!" One of the jewish mobsters yelled out with a laugh, Ricky turning his head and slowly making his way over to where it stemmed from.


    "What''s taking Petey so long-"


    "Oh who cares, that drama queen is probably pissing and sh*tting outside for all I know." One of them interrupted as Ricky looked around the corner to see them playing cards.


    Ricky wasted no time. As he clicked his gun, readying the revolver before suddenly turned the corner on the unsuspecting mobsters.


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    The first bullet pierced the back of the nearest mobster, causing his body to arch instinctively.


    Before he could scream in pain, the second bullet tore through his head, splattering brain matter onto his friend.


    "YOU BASTARD-"


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *CLICK*


    Two more bullets shot out before Owney''s revolver signaled it had been completely emptied, the bullets tearing through the mobsters stomach and arm.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The man let out a piercing wail, stumbling to the ground as blood poured from his fresh wounds, pooling on the ground beneath him.


    "Tsk, I''m such a lousy shot." Ricky sighed when looking at the gun, looking around for a knife or something similar to end this once and for all.


    "YOU BASTARD, THIS IS FOR ELI!" The man, knowing he was about to die, pulled out a pistol of his own and pointed it at Ricky.


    Unloading the entire clip into Ricky, the man screeched out a warcry with tears for his fallen brother only for the gun to click.


    *Click*


    For a brief second after the gun stopped firing, time stood still as a look of horror eclipsed his face when gazing upon the six bullets he fired stopping mid air.


    "Full Counter." Ricky waved his empty pistol at the bullets, their trajectories altering with twice the explosive power, causing the man''s breath to stutter in fear.


    "Mommy-"


    *SPLAT*


    Ricky showed a look of disgust, still unable to get used to the side of a man''s body seemingly popping like a flesh balloon.


    Meanwhile when Ricky was killing the only two guys within the warehouse, Jake was outside facing a conundrum.


    "You know this guy?" Rocco asked Jake, gazing at Petey who pleaded with him.


    "Y-Yeah, we go to the same temple." Jake rubbed his forehead in distress, knowing Petey since they were boys.


    "Well, we can''t let him go or-"


    "I know, DAMMIT I KNOW!" Jake paced back and forth, knowing that this would start a full scale war that the Luciano family didn''t need right now.


    Jake could understand why they were doing this, pinning the blame on the Irish mob or some other gangs but if they were told directly by one of their own, it would lead to a lot of needless trouble.


    "I''ll take him around back and-"


    "No, I''ll do it." Jake interrupted Edward who became a little surprised at this declaration.


    "But Jake, this-"


    "We all need to prove that we''re a part of the Luciano family, I need to prove that just cause I''m a jew don''t mean I can''t be in the family." Jake thumped his chest, Rocco and Edward looking at each other but nodding.


    "Alright." Rocco understood a little where Jake was coming from, handing the tied up Petey to him.


    "Aye Jake, you can''t let him go." Edward became serious at this moment, looking into Jake''s eyes as the latter nodded slowly.


    "I know Eddy." Jake unholstered his pistol and pulled Petey aside, tears streaming down his face as he confronted his looming fate.


    Throwing him into the alleyway, Petey begged through muffled words as Jake gnawed on his lip while pointing the pistol at him.


    "Any last words Petey." Jake undid his gag, hoping and praying that Petey would yell hateful words only to see him bow his head.


    "D-Don''t do this Jake, w-we go way back!" Petey pleaded, begging Jake not to pull the trigger as his gun violently started to shake.


    "I-I-I went to your bar mitzvah for the lord''s sake, PLEASE JAKE! Petey screeched out, tears streaming down his cheeks.


    "I-I can''t Petey, I''m sorry." Jake gritted his teeth, his own eyes getting teary as the gun shook violently in his hands.


    "I''m sorry."


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    The shots were heard from the alley, Jake coming out from the side and wiping his eyes though Edward still went to check.


    But as he turned the corner, he saw three shots in Petey''s head, forever freezing a look of horror on his face.


    "Alright let''s-woah, what happened here." Ricky waltzed out of the warehouse, seeing the gloomy atmosphere only to realize that the other guy was gone.


    "Jake did you-"


    "I don''t want to talk about it right now Slick." Jake walked back towards the car, Ricky nodding and looking over to Rocco who understood.


    Rocco grabbed the Molotov, lighting the ends as the orange hue slowly consumed the cloth before throwing it at the side.


    The fire greedily started to spread all around the operation yet none of the boys paid it any regards.


    "Here-" Ricky handed Jake a bottle of rum though he didn''t have to finish his words since Jake had immediately swiped it.


    *GULP*


    *GULP*


    *GULP*


    Ricky was surprised but started laughing out, patting Jake''s shoulder until he put it down and started immediately throwing it back up.


    *BLERGH*


    "AHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky laughed, Jake falling into the car afterwards while Edward got into the driver''s seat.


    "WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Ricky yelled out from the passenger side window, holding the bottle of rum in his hands amidst the chaos going on all around him.


    "I''M GONNA LIVE FOREVER!"


    43 hours later,


    "Oh god, my head~"


    Meanwhile In Downtown Manhattan,


    *BAM*


    "HOW IS THIS HAPPENING!" A man with a Star of David necklace dangling from his neck screeched, gripping his hair in distress.


    Other gangsters, similarly adorned, gathered around with nervous expressions.


    This scene of anger and unease was the result of a message received by the Jewish mafia regarding one of their operations in Harlem.


    At the center of this turmoil stood Harry "Pep" Strauss, the leader of the Jewish mafia, and his underboss, Bugsy Goldstein.


    "And sure Dutch''s reports were correct?" One of his men carefully asked as Pep had a deadpan expression on his face while gazing at this man.


    Sweat trickled from all the surrounding members as they gazed at their boss''s unmoving body as his hollow eyes stared at the man.


    *BANG*


    *THUMP*


    Then in the next second, a bullet was delicately placed between the man''s eyebrows as the adult body hit the ground with a loud thud.


    "EVERYONE GET OUT!" Pep roared while tossing the table situated in front of him on its legs as all members rushed out of the premises.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    "Fits of rage will only show your incompetence." Bugsy elegantly spoke as his aura was that of a nobleman while Pep''s bloodshot eyes turned to him.


    "YOU-"


    "What." Bugsy eyes were cold as Pep took a step back since his supposed underboss stood up while his form slowly started to morph.


    Every step he took, Buggsy human vestige slowly changed into that of a cold blooded monster before the former Buggsy stood in front of Pep with an entirely new appearance.


    "You''d do best to understand your place in the food chain." The man''s deep voice hissed as two canines showed from his mouth.


    "M-My apologies, Lord Dracula." Pep got on one knee while bowing his head down in subservience as the infamous self proclaimed Dracula gazed at him with a scowl.


    "Find it, and I''ll give you what I promised." Dracula''s words finished and as Pep looked up, his master was completely gone without a trace.


    "As you wish."

 Chapter 26: An Interesting Proposal

    Chapter 26: An Interesting Proposal


    "Oh god my head~"


    Ricky woke up on a plush mattress, surrounded by bottles as he rubbed his tired eyes and took a moment to survey his surroundings.


    Eventually, he stumbled off the mattress with the bottles clinking around and made his way to the door, opening it to reveal Booker and his family.


    "Looks like you recovered." Booker laughed along with two older people as they watched hysterically while Lucky stumbled over to the open seat.


    "Where am I, what happened?" Ricky asked while covering his head in his arms as the scent of bacon and eggs flooded his nostrils.


    "PUAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" The old man cracked up hysterically forcing Ricky to cover his ears before the old woman hit the old man''s shoulder.


    "Can''t ya see the poor boy is hurting!" The old woman started beating the man as he held up hands of surender.


    "God dammit woman, I get it!" The man held up his arms to stop it.


    "Slick, this is my pops Louis Rhodes and the angel right next to him is my mama Marie Rhodes." Booker happily introduced his parents to Ricky who waved.


    "Ricky Luciano, but you can call me Slick." Ricky introduced himself as they nodded.


    "We know sweet thing, in fact, almost everyone in Harlem knows who you are after what you did." Marie grabbed Ricky''s hand with a gracious gaze as Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    *DING*


    ''Nope.'' Ricky thought Marie wasn''t entirely out of his age range but the face didn''t do it for him.


    "Yeah I don''t remember a single thing, refresh my memory about what I said?" Ricky asked, scratching his head in confusion while Louis sighed heavily as both Booker and Marie cracked up in laughter.


    "Damn white boys, always making me lose my money." Louis clicked his tongue, fiddling through his pocket while looking at Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "I ain''t nothing against you Slick, but I didn''t think you''d be so kind even when you were sober." Louis handed some change to both Booker and Marie as they pocketed it, indicating there was some bet taking place.


    ''This is kind?'' Ricky thought to himself, leaning back in his chair.


    "It''s fine, so what happened last night?" Ricky asked, seeing Booker patted his shoulder.


    "Slick, you''ve been on a drunken bender for not just a night but for the last two days." Booker informed Ricky who became slack jawed.


    "You''re kidding." Ricky said incredulously since hadn''t had a bender like that in a while.


    "If I was in yer shoes I wouldn''t believe his black ass either but I ain''t no fool, everyone saw and heard what you did." Louis took a bite of bacon, a little grumpy from losing his money before telling Ricky, currently rubbing his head as if that would help him remember.


    "Here honey, this will help the hangover." A woman walked over and placed a plate of food as well as a drink beside it.


    "Oh Slick, this is my wife Tania Rhodes." Booker introduced as Tania smiled appreciatively at him before going over to kiss Booker''s cheek.


    "Don''t forget to tell him, alright." Tania whispered as Booker adjusted his collar before looking at Ricky eating.


    "Alright, I''ll start at the beginning."


    *Booker First Person POV Of Ricky*


    After being sent off following the incident with the Irishmen, I returned about an hour later to find you drinking with some of your family at the bar.


    The night progressed until some of the white patrons walked up to you, the new owner, with some complaints.


    From what I heard from second hand whispers, they started to complain about some of the blacks coming near their white only section.


    However instead of hearing them out, you ignored them until they voiced their complaints louder until you punched one of them after they laid a hand on your shoulder.


    What I witnessed next shocked not only me but also your friends since after you beat the snot out of him, you stormed out of the club, only to return somehow with a sledgehammer.


    You proceeded to smash all the "white" and "black only" signs while screaming, "BLACKS AND WHITES, IT DON''T MATTER CAUSE YOU''LL BOTH GIVE ME YOUR MONEY!"


    At first, I thought you were gonna rob my ass, but color me white and put me in the suburbs as you actually got rid of Owney''s ''White Only'' policy at the Cotton Club out of pure spite.


    I mean, The Cotton Club was originally brought up by Jack Johnson, but those two fire crotches forced him to sell.


    But when you started charging not only whites but also letting us blacks in and taking our money, I swear it made me tear up and¡ª


    "Alright, alright, I get it. You''re thankful, but just get to the f*cking story and why I''m here," Ricky interrupted, stopping Booker''s brown-nosing and making him get straight to the point.


    *Ahem*


    Apologies. Anyhow, you mixed the crowd, which caused clear dissatisfaction with the white patrons.


    However, now that you owned all of Owney''s nightclubs, you also owned the Stork Club.


    So when countless white patrons continued to come over to your section and complained, you became completely angered and said, and I quote, to a disgruntled white boy,


    "GO TO THE F*CKING STORK CLUB, B*TCH." Then you spit in his face before jugging another bottle.


    Well, needless to say, they did, and only a handful of whites made up the club before the word spread.


    However, you weren''t simply done since you paid me forty dollars to drive you around the rest of the night, though you continued to drink heavily.


    I think it was around midday when you passed out on top of a table at a nearby deli shop and when the owner complained, I promptly told him who you were and he quieted down.


    Your friends were also passed out next to you, but unlike you they were having a harder time keeping up with your drinking habits.


    A couple of hours later, you woke up and started throwing up which seemed to breathe life into your tired being, and you started parading down the street with only a pair of pants.


    You kept grabbing bottles of alcohol and challenging random people to have a drinking competition with you.


    However, you usually scared them off and after a while of drinking alone, you started throwing up once more before falling flat on your face.


    *Booker First Person POV Of Ricky END*


    "Then you passed out so I took you here and let you sleep in the master bedroom." Booker notified him as he nodded while patting his shoulder.


    "Well thanks Booker, if you ever need something then all you need to do is ask." Ricky gave him a stern handshake as a reward, gobbling up the rest of the eggs before downing the hangover drink.


    "Whoa, that''s good." Ricky became surprised at the hangover cure and Tania promptly walked over to fill his plate and give him a refill.


    "Slick, if I may, my HUSBAND actually does want something." Tania raised her eyebrows while refilling Ricky''s plate.


    "U-U-U-U-Uh t-t-t-the thing is I-I-I-I-I-"


    "My boy wants to headline at the Cotton club, Slick." Louis shook his head and finished for him as Booker shut his mouth.


    "Sure why not." Ricky shrugged while easily offering the coveted spot as Booker showed an enthusiastic smile.


    "SLICK I PROMISE I WON''T LET YA DOWN, I''LL BECOME THE BIGGEST TRUMPET PLAYER THAT EVEN LOUIE CAN''T COMPARE TO!" Booker jumped to his feet as Tania hugged him in congratulations.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    Two polite knocks sounded on the door, piquing Booker''s curiosity as he glanced at the door, momentarily puzzled, before recalling Ricky''s expected arrival.


    When Booker opened the door, he was surprised to find not a white Italian man, as he had anticipated, but a black man and a woman standing before him.


    "Booker Rhodes, correct?" The lavishly dressed black woman asked with a charming smile as Booker''s eyes widened.


    "M-M-M-M-Madame St. Clair." Booker stuttered out upon seeing the infamous women who gripped Harlem by her delicate hands.


    "The one and only." Madame St. Clair smiled as an intimidating man pushed him backwards before gesturing for her to come in.


    "Oh Bumpy, be gentle." Madame strolled in while Ricky watched without a care in the world.


    "Yes Madam." Bumpy respectfully answered as she walked in front of Ricky before holding out her hand.


    "Madame St. Clair, Ricky ''Slick'' Luciano I presume?" Madame asked without even the slightest inkling that he would actually shake her hand until he took it with a charming smile.


    "The one and only." Ricky winked before kissing her hand which made her raise a curious eyebrow.


    *Ding*


    [Mission received: Madame St. Clair


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: B


    Description: Stephanie St. Clair aka Madame St. Clair is one of, if not the most, notorious individual in the entirety of Harlem and is well respected. Her underground and activist activities keep her busy which has made relationships almost impossible.


    Objective: Fill her lonely womb with a plentiful serving which will knock her up.


    Missions Received:


    Impregnante Madame Once:


    Rewards: 200 Gacha or The choice of Madame''s skills


    Impregnate Madame Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Cum inside Madame after she bears her soul to you(Incomplete)


    Reward: Epic Grade skill coupon


    Have Madame accept you into her heart(Incomplete)


    Reward: +7 Dexterity


    Bonus Missions:


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    [Do you wish to accept this task Y/N]


    ''Oh yeah.''


    "You have presumed correctly." Ricky winked at her as they sat down in front of each other.


    "So what''s a pretty young thing like you doing before my eyes?" Ricky boldly stated, showing a sleazy smile which made Madame smile widely while Bumpy frowned.


    "You''ll talk to Madame in respect-" Bumpy walked forward, reaching to his side in an intimidating manner.


    "Bumpy, easy." Madame held up her hand, Bumpy halting at it but instead of being afraid, Ricky laughed hysterically.


    "May I ask what is so funny, Slick?" Madame asked curiously, knowing that he was defenseless in this situation and shouldn''t be antagonizing them unless he had something up his sleeve.


    "It wouldn''t work anyways." Ricky yawned, leaning back in his seat and spreading his arms which made Bumpy scoff.


    "Mr. Luciano-" Madame scrunched her eyebrows at his boldness.


    "Call me Slick darling." Ricky winked at Madame who rolled her eyes but with a smile.


    "Alright SLICK, do you think you''re bulletproof?" Madame asked, watching Ricky wipe his mouth before standing up.


    "Kind of?" Ricky tilted his head while thinking about his power, walking over to the side and putting his plate in the sink.


    "Do you paint me as a fool?" Madame frowned at this statement, her mind unable to comprehend a human as bulletproof.


    "No, I''d prefer to paint you nude." Ricky never skipped a beat with any chance to hit on her as she rolled her eyes, used to these statements at this point.


    "Hmm, when I came here I thought you were something, but it seems that it was a whole lot of misplaced nothing." Madame stood up, thinking that Ricky was too full of himself to the point he was delusional.


    "Ouch, my heart~" Ricky held his chest, stumbling from his chair and over to the side as if she had stabbed him right where it hurts.


    "Why do the prettiest girls say the cruelest things?" Ricky looked at Madame, who was shaking her head at his overdramatic antics.


    *Sigh*


    "Slick, I really thought you were someone who had the power and compassion to listen to my proposal, but I can see that you have one and have yet to acquire the other." Madame rudely insulted Ricky right to his face as he laughed at this before standing up.


    "I have compassion, I can also be gentle-" Ricky didn''t miss this chance to hit on Madame, walking over to her only to see Bumpy step in front of him.


    "You''d do well to watch yourself, Slick." Bumpy was a little taller than Ricky but instead of seeing hesitation, Ricky simply laughed in his face.


    "Consider my timbers shivered." Ricky waved his hands as if he were scared, but the mocking smile on his face said otherwise.


    "Slick, please do not provoke Bumpy-"


    "Or what, is he gonna cry? Is he gonna throw a little tantrum and call his mommy? Maybe he''ll write a little sad song about it on his little ukulele." Ricky played an air ukulele, provoking him even further.


    "Slick, stop." Madame warned but Ricky simply wouldn''t stop his laughter.


    "Oh you want to punch me so bad, I can just see it on your face." Ricky nodded to himself but Bumpy held his composure, until Ricky noticed something.


    Reaching over to Madame, Bumpy positioned himself in the way but instead of simply carrying out the duties of hired muscle, he bore a look of genuine anger.


    "Wait a minute, you''re totally in love with her, aren''t you?" Ricky asked, Bumpy breath becoming stiff as everyone froze.


    "Slick-" Madame immediately saw the look of red flash throughout Bumpy''s eyes and tried to halt this situation.


    "What I feel for Madame is simply genuine respect, what she has done for this community and Harlem as a whole is-"


    "The reason you love her?" Ricky interrupted him once again, Booker grabbing Tania along with his parents and moving them farther away.


    "Boy, you best watch that mouth of yours." Bumpy warned, shaking in actual anger but Ricky actually had a method to the madness and Madame actually started to realize it.


    "Bumpy, calm yourself he''s-"


    "So you wouldn''t mind if I take Madame out for a spin?" Ricky asked the words that made Bumpy''s ears start to ring, his hand moving to his waist even at Madame''s strong discouragement.


    "I mean it''ll be out of respect at first, but if your wondering about later then I''ll try to be to treat her gentle-"


    "YOU SHUT YOUR MOUTH WHITE BOY!" Bumpy yelled, grabbing his pistol from his waist and pointing it at Ricky.


    "BUMPY, STOP IT NOW!" Madame ordered Bumpy, though they were both in their own little world now.


    "Come on, do it, grow back the balls taken and jarred by the hot piece of ass behind you-"


    *BANG*


    Bumpy pulled the trigger, everyone breath leaving their being as time slowed down while the bullet crossed the short distance between them.


    *Dink*


    The bullet collided with itself in midair, tumbling slowly to the ground before skidding across the floor.


    "By the nipples of Mother Mary." Louis whispered out, his wife too shocked to slap him across his head at this moment.


    "Tada~" Ricky waved his hands, sparking everyone from their frozen manner until Bumpy took a step back.


    "Your the-the-the-"


    "Grinch-"


    "Devil." Bumpy finished his own words which made Ricky nod his head.


    "And you say I didn''t have any compassion, pot calling the kettle black right about now." Ricky snickered, reaching down and grabbing the bullet casing on the ground.


    "You''re a mutant." Madame calmly revealed to everyone though her heart and mind were racing.


    "Surprise~" Ricky laughed, sitting back down while gazing at the bullet casing.


    Madame was taken aback, though everything she had heard and studied about him suddenly made sense.


    The prevailing rumor, which had seemed exaggerated beyond belief that Ricky could have eliminated the leaders of the Five Point Gang, now struck her as entirely plausible.


    ''Wait, didn''t he kill them in such a gruesome manner-''


    "Are you wondering why you''re still alive?" Ricky asked Madame, seeing her thinking to herself.


    "Compassion~" Ricky reverberated her own words from earlier which made Madame raise an eyebrow.


    "Now sit down so we can continue where you rudely stopped our earlier conversation." Ricky gestured, Madame thinking for a moment but sitting back down.


    "Before we start, may I ask if you truly think you have all the leverage?" Madame asked, leaning onto the table and Ricky simply smiled.


    "And what makes you think that I don''t?" Ricky decided to bite on her train of thought as she smiled lightly.


    "What''s to stop me from leaving here and spreading the fact that the prized heir to the Luciano crime family is a mutant?" Madame asked curiously, aware that while the Luciano family tolerated mutants, she understood that other Italian mobs were not entirely accepting.


    "Because if you do, Harlem will burn." Ricky revealed his smile, Madame trying to keep a calm expression but he could see how his words reflected it.


    "You saw what our family did to the Irish mob, we burned EVERYTHING and if you think we won''t do the same to your little community, then I guess I''m not the only idiot here." Ricky''s smile extended while Madame shortened.


    "Your bluffing."


    "Alright, say I am, say you go on spouting that Ricky Luciano is a mutant to all of New York." Ricky spread out his arms to show a bigger picture.


    "Who would believe you, who in this city would ever write an article with the only witnesses either on my payroll or the both of you." Ricky gestured to Booker who would have to keep his mouth shut before flipping the narrative onto them.


    "Level with me, do you think any white man would believe a black woman trying to persecute an innocent young man like myself?" Ricky highlighted the unjust situation they were in until he held up the bullet casing to clinch the deal.


    "And when I bring this bullet casing to the pigs on my fathers payroll, they won''t only lock you away but tear everything you''ve ever built to the ground." Ricky waved the bullet casing in front of the stoic Madame calmly listening to his threats.


    "Everything you mean to this community, to little Bumpy over, and all the good you''ve done up until now won''t have mattered since it would all be ruined." Ricky snickered, Bumpy standing helplessly to the side with a guilty expression to the side at the position he had put Madame in.


    "I first believe an apology is in order for not only the way my associate acted, but how I conducted myself." Madame promptly apologized, Ricky curiously watching to see what she would respond to his clear threats.


    "Slick, I believe we got off onto the wrong foot and I''d like to start over if you wouldn''t mind." Madame regained her bearing, knowing where she stood almost immediately as Ricky laughed but shrugged.


    "My words were entirely wrong and I not only see the power you hold now, but the compassion I was looking for and would ask for you to graciously overlook my previous ignorance." Madame understood that this situation was delicate yet potentially highly profitable, as her original intentions for coming here could still be realized.


    "Sure, why not." Ricky honestly wasn''t mad in the least and really didn''t care that Bumpy shot him since he provoked him in the first place.


    However, there was a reason Madame had come here, and after seeing even Booker recognize her, Ricky genuinely wanted to know what she wanted from him.


    Which is what he would tell others but in the shameless reality he found himself in, he simply wanted to ogle at her for a little while longer.


    Madame''s fair, slim features accentuated her seductive allure, but it was her confidence that captivated Ricky, making it impossible for him to look away.


    Her hazel eyes locked onto his, framed by black hair that curled delicately at the ends with a smile that made anyone''s heart bubble.


    "As you might know, I had a deal with Owney and-"


    "Honestly Madame, I don''t even remember getting here much less a conversation you had with the guy I shot, and before you say anything else, keep in mind I don''t know jack sh*t about Harlem." Ricky interrupted Madame who opened her mouth before closing it, reassessing the matter at hand.


    "I think it would be best to say what it is you want from Harlem before going forward." Madame gave the floor to Ricky who nodded.


    "I''m going to use those clubs to clean my money, plain and simple." Ricky bluntly told his ambitions to this woman he had just barely met.


    "And before we go onto this needless ramble about the color of peoples skin, I really couldn''t care less if you''re purple or french since the only color I care about is green." Ricky halted any further odd conversations since Booker had alreayd made him bored of these situations.


    ''French?'' Booker thought from the side, looking over to his family only to his father nodding his head.


    "Amen." Louis tapped his heart, Booker tried to play off the signaifinace but completely didn''t understand what he meant by his words.


    Madame smirking at his words, utterly amused by Ricky''s background and character while leaning back in her chair.


    "I see." Madame rubbed her chin while constantly looking at Ricky with a smile.


    "You really don''t care that I''m black do you?" Madame genuinely asked with an amused expression as Ricky shrugged.


    "Not really no." Ricky replied honestly which even made Bumpy feel a little weird since the most racist group of white men in the city were the jews and Italians, at least to his perception.


    "Wow, you''re like a unicorn." Madame rested her head on her gloved hand, gazing at Ricky with fascination as he waved his glass, prompting Tania to walk over and fill it.


    "Trust me Madame, I was the same way at first but it''s the truth, this might be the only mobster to really not see color." Tania gestured to Madame who giggled at her words as she interlaced her fingers in front of her.


    "Slick, do you want to know a way you can not only clean your money but also make a boatload of it?" Madame sought to intrigue Ricky which she did as he took two gulps of the hangover cure.


    "Hit me, I always want to make money." Ricky motioned for her to start as Madame let out an excited smile.


    "Start a bank and let black people deposit as well as take loans." Madame was very enthusiastic as she saw the perfect opportunity right in front of her.


    Madame St. Clair is one of, if not the most, noxious black woman in Harlem due to the game known as the ''Numbers Game''.


    St. Clair is involved in policy banking, which for her was a mixture of investing, gambling, and playing the lottery.


    Many banks at this time would not accept black customers, so they were not able to invest and deposit legally.


    Policy banking wasn''t technically legal, but it was one of the few options offered to black Harlem residents who wished to invest their money.


    It was also a predominantly Black industry which allowed many bankers to have a sense of agency that would not be possible in white-dominated fields and in this way, St. Clair used the underground economy in Harlem to address race politics.


    "Ha!" Ricky thought this was the funniest thing ever as Madame waited for him to finish.


    "Isn''t that illegal-" Ricky suddenly thought, thinking he had heard their was a law aganist it.


    "It is only frowned upon, not illegal." Madame quickly corrected making Ricky tilt his head before taking another sip of his drink.


    While there were no explicit laws prohibiting black people from banking, in this time they faced significant obstacles due to discriminatory practices by banks and limited access to financial services.


    Many banks refused to serve black customers, making it extremely challenging for them to open accounts, access loans, or participate fully in the financial system but also opened up a peculiar opportunity.


    "Alright I''ll bite, elaborate." Ricky leaned back in his chair as Bumpy was speechless as Madame moved her chair right next to him with an eager smile.


    "There is so much profit to be had in a bank that loans out to black folks like ourselves, the days of us being slaves are over, and we make money just like any white man or woman but at the same time, also require the same thing to hold it." Madame quickly started her sales pitch since this might be her only chance to do something that would be unthinkable for their era.


    "But instead of banks, many black folks hold their savings in tubesocks, floorboards, and mattresses, which could be safely stored in a bank for a small fee." Madame continued, indicating that other banks were indifferent due to various reasons.


    Madame explained to Ricky how the banking industries labeled many black areas and neighborhoods as ''hazardous'' and would outright refuse not only black loans but black business loans.


    However, this also created an untapped market, as there wasn''t a single bank in the area, prompting many black people to engage in the numbers game as a means of accessing financial resources.


    The irony was that Madame made a substantial amount of money through the numbers game which had labeled her a crime boss.


    But despite her outward persona as a criminal boss, she was inwardly an activist, a true civil rights activist.


    "You do know that the mob already has a bank, right?" Ricky shook his head, but Madame quickly sought to dissuade his current through process.


    "It wouldn''t be structured as a mob bank but would be presented as a bank for all." Madame corrected as Ricky pursed his lips.


    "You don''t have to make a decision now-" Madame felt nervous, knowing that this idea was going to be shot down and sought to reach a different angle.


    "Why not." Ricky shrugged as he stood up along with Madame.


    "Pardon?" Madame thought she heard wrong as Ricky started walking towards the door.


    "Listen, I''m all for cleaning money but with the current depression, banks are popping up and dying off just as fast." Ricky shook his head, knowing how fragile the banking industry was at the moment.


    "But it doesn''t matter if you''ve convinced me since you''ll have to convince my pops." Ricky then handed the glass to Tania over at the side.


    "However, if you really are dead set on this then follow me." Ricky gestured, his throbbing headache now reduced to a minor annoyance, and decided to bring this intriguing proposal to his father, Lucky.


    "A-Are you serious Slick, please don''t josh me about something like this." Madame quickly rushed in her high heels after Slick who chuckled.


    "Yeah I wouldn''t lie, you got a car around here-"


    "YES-"


    *AHEM*


    "I mean yes, I had Bumpy drive me here." Madame''s excitement clearly showed through her usual steel faced expression.


    "Madam!" Bumpy screamed in low whispers while grabbing the over excited Madame.


    "Are you really going to trust that freak?" Bumpy asked, his eyes filled with clear worry, but Madame pried herself free from his grip.


    "Well if he can trust a negro like myself then I''ll give my all to this so-called ''freak''." Madame spoke in a sassy tone before hurriedly catching up to Ricky.


    "You should take any proof you might have with us." Ricky informed Madame who quickly shook her head.


    "Of course, we''ll drop by my office but I have numerous documents to back up my words." Madame quickly informed while entering the elevator with him.


    "Oh and I also have one more condition." RIcky suddenly said as Madame nodded her head.


    "Anything-"


    "Have dinner with me."


    "Of course-what?" Madame immediately agreed before realizing Ricky''s words.


    "Have dinner with me." Ricky''s reassuring words made Madame laugh.


    "Honey I''m twice your age-"


    "Then let me make you feel young again." Ricky smiled, inching closer to Madame who raised an eyebrow before patting his chest.


    "Fine kid, I''ll let you take me out to dinner." Madame spoke once Bumpy entered the elevator as it closed.


    "B-Boss?" Booker spoke out from the end of the hallway as Ricky waved.


    "See you when you headline at the club tonight and if you tell anyone about what happened earlier, I''ll kill you!" Ricky waved with a smile as Booker nodded while holding a thumbs up.


    "YOU CAN COUNT ON ME BOSS-wait what?" Booker excitedly jumped up and down before freezing in place after registering his words.


    The door closed abruptly, cutting off Ricky''s sentence and prompting laughter from both him and Madame, who patiently waited for the elevator.


    Bumpy drove Ricky and Madame to her office first, where she instructed Ricky and Bumpy to each carry a stack of papers while she took a briefcase.


    Ricky''s presence helped them navigate through mafia territory, and he barged into Lucy''s office without hesitation.


    Lucky, unfazed by Ricky''s abrupt entrance, didn''t look up from his papers since while Ricky had been on his bender, Lucky had been busy acquiring actual ownership of the Stork and Cotton Club for the family.


    "Glad you''re here Slick, the clubs have been put in your names-who are these cats?" Lucky informed Ricky though showed a surprised expression as he saw Madame St. Clair and Bumpy.


    "Pops, let''s start a bank."

 Chapter 27: Lucky Legacy Bank

    Chapter 27: Lucky Legacy Bank


    Author''s Note: I was going to post another pic but DaoistKq1vOg posted a WAY better one so we''re rocking with his, I''ll post it on this note and on the previous mission.


    "....."


    Lucky gazed at his son with a frown before shifting his focus to the likely cause of the situation, setting the paper down with deliberate care.


    "Let me guess, you''re Madame St. Clair and you''re Bumpy Johnson." Lucky could quickly pieced together the two familiar figures that he always read about in his reports of Harlem.


    "Yes Mr. Luciano-"


    *Sigh*


    "I don''t know what theatrics you said to my boy, but unlike that irresponsible carpet stain, I actually think with my actual head." Lucky sat back in his chair, knowing how much of a fool Ricky could be for a pretty thing like Madame.


    "My time is money but I''ll give my boy the benefit of the doubt, you have two minutes." Lucky looked at his watch, returning his gaze to the two before folding his hands.


    "Mr. Luciano-" Bumpy tried to inject but Lucky didn''t even care to give him the time of day.


    "Starting now." Lucky completely seized control of the narrative, leaving Madame St. Clair to hastily sift through the paperwork she had previously gathered.


    Within a split second, Madame St. Clair then launched into her sales pitch that was far more detailed than the dumbed down one she gave to Ricky.


    However, as Lucky grasped the implications of her words, his eyes widened, and he erupted into hysterical laughter at the audacity of her proposal.


    "A negro bank?" Lucky hysterically laughed, wiping his eyes at her entire pitch only for Ricky to nudge Madame to continue since she was losing her window.


    Understanding his intent, Madame St. Clair altered her approach as she walked over and sat down directly in front of Lucky.


    "It is not a negro bank but a bank that serves everyone from all walks of life, which so happens to serve blacks as well." Madame informed Lucky, who tried his best to suppress his laughter, but it was nearly impossible given the absurdity of her idea.


    "Madame, I know a doll like you might not realize this, but the banking industry has been a crap show ever since the market went and sh*t on itself." Lucky spread out his hands as to show how this idea was completely out of it.


    "So I don''t know what you said to ensnare my son, but this isn''t going to happen." Lucky waved his hand dismissively, seeing no reason to invest in such a terrible plan based on a notion like ''equality'' since to him, it was irrelevant unless it made money.


    He wasn''t wrong to think so since three years ago, the market crashed springing the start of the ''great depression'' which had the country by its collar but the banking industry by the balls.


    Banks were closing left and right as some banks had to go so far as to withhold people from withdrawing the money.


    Although the stock market had taken a huge dive, the banks were the ones to suffer the most along with the people they served.


    So, Lucky didn''t see the investment opportunity in this bank since the average person in his shoes would think, ''where is the money?''.


    It didn''t help that he focused solely on the low income associated not only with Black people but with Harlem as well.


    "Mr. Luciano-"


    "Are you not listening to my words, a bank needs money, real money, and no one has enough to save since they use what they can to scrape by." Lucky once again interrupted Madame who was at her limits.


    *BAM*


    "Mr. Luciano, I know you might be apprehensive about investing in an industry that has taken the brutality of the market crash but see the potential in this!" Madame slammed her hands onto the table, trying to urgently convey her entire words.


    When Lucky was about to completely close himself off to Madame, he sighed heavily when gazing to the side to see Ricky staring at her ass.


    "It was only the white man and woman that had their money in the banks, all blacks have their money tube socks or in crumbled bags tucked in their air vents, just ten minutes-no, one minute of your time to go through the data-" Madame felt the opportunity slipping from her grasp as she became desperate, clinging onto anything she could but Lucky was too fed up.


    "Enough." Lucky sighed, rubbing his forehead until he gazed up to see Ricky simply give him a shrug, silently telling him that a minute wouldn''t hurt.


    "You know what, since you convinced my boy then the least I can do is give you one minute, but after that you gotta scram." Lucky decided to humor Madame for the sake of Ricky as she nodded.


    "I only need you to read these papers." Madame then took out the papers in her briefcase which she had been safeguarding with her life.


    Lucky rolled his eyes but took the papers, putting on his reading glasses and initially, he scanned the words casually, but soon his gaze hardened, drawn into the details before him.


    Without realizing it, Lucky became absorbed in the contents of the papers, setting them down in surprise.


    Madame had achieved her lavish lifestyle through the numbers game, leveraging her credibility when the banks had lost the trust of both black and white customers.


    This trust had enabled her to succeed where others struggled, but Lucky was focused on the fact that the money he expected to see as simply pennies, was significant; the amount flowing through Madame''s hands was enough to achieve something even he found challenging.


    ''I can clean hundred of thousands of dollars easily if I had numbers like these.'' Lucky thought to himself, reaching beside him to grab the landline.


    *Click*


    "Meyer, get down here it''s urgent."


    1 hour later,


    "These-......these are accurate." Meyer confirmed the notification, learning that Frank had been called to the meeting as well.


    Surprised by the sudden summons, Meyer attended nonetheless, never imagining the significance of the numbers on the paper before him.


    These weren''t just any statistics; they were the figures from Madame''s Numbers game, revealing how many black people paid, borrowed, and consumed from her hands.


    Meyer was taken aback by the impact of these numbers, realizing the extent of Madame''s influence in Harlem when he observed it to be miniscule at best.


    "The greatest strength of this idea is that the government is trying their best to fix the banking industry, meaning they are approving a lot of banks." Meyer first gave the good news to Lucky who rubbed his chin.


    "The problem with this idea is that it is incredibly hard to not only enter but to stay afloat since you need a solid foundation to keep a stream of profit along with keeping people coming in." Meyer said while turning the paper, shaking head in disbelief at what he was about to say.


    "Honestly Lucky, if you spearheaded this bank with the clean money you have now and Madame''s notoriety within the community, then it might just work." Meyer spoke words he''d neve thought he''d ever say.


    "The governments usually closely monitor things like this but with these numbers it might be-"


    "Meyer I''m serious, would this truly work." Lucky gestured, suggesting that if they could pull it off, they wouldn''t need to rely on Bank of America just to hold their legitimate money but they could also launder their illicit funds at exceptional rates.


    To Lucky, Bank of America was simply a vault that protected their clean gold.


    But with this idea he actually had a way to polish all that dirty gold tucked away within his couch cushions.


    "I''m 85% sure that this will work and I''m low balling you." Meyer spoke up, breaking the awfully silent room as Lucky turned his attention to Madame.


    "How much do you want?"


    "5% of the company."


    "Not a chance,1.5%."


    "5.5"


    "2-"


    "Deal."


    The negotiation was brief but when Lucky offered her two percent, she quickly accepted, knowing that even one percent would set her up for life.


    Lucky understood the importance of having her involved; without her, the black community wouldn''t trust him in the slightest.


    "Meyer, go inform all the mob bosses and tell them of this proposal to see if any of them will invest in it." Lucky ordered, handing some papers to Meyer''s who nodded but suddenly halted.


    "But don''t bring these documents." Lucky then took the real documents instead of Madame''s sales pitch which only made Meyer show a confused expression.


    "But they won''t-"


    "I know."


    Lucky only wanted to give them a chance, not to actually invest money, as he intended to monopolize this idea, a fact Meyer quickly grasped.


    "Right away." Meyer nodded before rushing out of the room, leaving Lucky to turn to to Frank.


    "Franky."


    "Yes boss."


    "I need you to handle Dutch Shucliz." Lucky spoke out words that surprised not only Frank but Madame.


    In fact, Madame wanted to ask for a favor regarding Dutch since he was starting to enter Harlem before demanding unreasonable protection fees.


    "That jew is trying to encroach on what''s ours." Lucky informed him which made Frank nodded with a resolute and stern expression.


    "Of course boss, it''ll be taken care of." Frank then winked at Ricky before walking out of the room while only leaving the four of them.


    "Making a bank doesn''t just take a day but will take a year, maybe even more." Lucky looked her dead in the eyes though she was unflinching.


    "Don''t worry Lucky, I''ll hold up my end of the deal." Madame stood up along with Lucky before they shook hands.


    "What should we name this Bank anyways?" Lucky asked and this time it was Ricky''s turn to jump in.


    "What about ''Lucky Bank''." Ricky said as Lucky frowned but Madame tilted her head back and forth.


    "That''s stupid." Lucky frowned however RIcky was adamant about it and literally started ranting off different names.


    "What about Lucky Savings Bank?


    "No."


    "What about Lucky Prosperity Bank?"


    "No."


    "What about Lucky Capital Bank?"


    "No!"


    "What about Lucky Harbor Bank?"


    "NO!"


    "What about Lucky Legacy Bank-"


    "GOD DAMMIT RICKY FINE!" Lucky yelled as Ricky wouldn''t drop it for the life of him, causing him to explode in anger.


    "You know what, ''Lucky Legacy'' has a nice ring to it." Madame thought to herself, seeing Lucky take a deep breath to calm himself.


    Hours passed, and a letter, which many would describe as a joke, appeared on the doorsteps of not only all the commission but also the executives at Bank of America.


    However, none of them took the words seriously and not even Profaci, who wanted to get into Lucky''s good graces, would take this chance.


    But unbeknownst to them, it would be one of their greatest mistakes.


    1 month later,


    "Now class, would anyone like to solve this equation?" Ms. Collins asked before gazing around as she scrunched her brows while looking at Ricky sleeping at his desk.


    "Ricky!"


    "W-Wha?" Ricky''s head shot up at the sound of giggles, meeting the glare of Ms. Collins.


    "Would you like to solve the equation?" Ms. Collins'' passive aggressive tone was palpable but Ricky simply ignored it while setting his head down.


    "Nope." Ricky set his head back down as Ms. Collins let out an aggrieved sigh.


    "RICKY!"


    "Alright geez~" Ricky stood up before grabbing some chalk and writing ''2'' on the whiteboard.


    "That is incorrect Ricky, this is the history portion of our class."


    "Well, I tried." Ricky walked back to his seat and immediately put his head down, while Ms. Collins scrunched her eyebrows and pursed her lush red lips.


    "Y-"


    *RINNNNNNNNNG*


    The bell rang furiously, prompting the students to jump out of their seats as Ricky heaved himself up, only to be stopped by Ms. Collins.


    *SIGH*


    "I really don''t want to do this right now." Ricky rubbed his tired eyes but Ms. Collins gently placed a hand on his shoulder and sat him back down before sitting slightly on the nearby desk.


    "Ricky, I know back then that I was-........out of line for trying to get involved in your personal life and I admit my wrong doings." Ms. Collins used this time to apologize with Ricky showing a look of surprise.


    "Really?" Ricky laughed a little while saying this as Ms. Collins nodded her head in approval.


    "Yes, I was wrong. You''ve been very respectful and courteous to me as a teacher and I abused those traits of yours and I want to apologize, I hope you can forgive my incessant nature." Ms. Collins then voiced her apology as Ricky leaned back in his chair to take this notorious event in.


    "Apology accepted." Ricky wasn''t the least bit mad at Ms. Collins for trying to guide him since in the end, he knew her heart was in the right place.


    "But we need to talk about your actions for the past two weeks while in my class." Ms. Collins then laid down the topic as Ricky sighed in exhaustion.


    Ms. Collins wasn''t wrong in her observations since for the past two weeks, Ricky had either been completely exhausted or asleep in class, and it was all because of one person: Lucky.


    Lucky had been pushing Ricky into more of a leadership position, making him responsible for running everything related to the Cotton and Stork Club.


    From dealing with vendors to hiring and paying staff, Ricky handled it all.


    It was a test of his capabilities, and Lucky didn''t offer help even when Ricky accidentally messed up an order, forcing him to scramble around small underhanded stores to make up for the lack of alcohol.


    The workload was driving Ricky mad with paperwork, evident in his tired appearance and he hadn''t had a good night''s sleep in an entire month.


    "Sorry, teach, but I''ve been working while schooling and it''s tough to find balance." Ricky ran his hands through his hair as Ms. Collins nodded thoughtfully.


    "Ricky, it''s okay to ask for help every once and a while. You don''t have to do everything alone." Ms. Collins'' words suddenly caused a light bulb to shine brightly above Ricky''s head.


    "WHY DIDN''T I THINK OF THAT BEFORE!" Ricky let out a maniacal laughter of excitement.


    "Thank''s Ms. Collins." Ricky lunged forward and pulled the teacher into a hug as she was caught off guard.


    "O-Oh ok." Ms. Collins was surprised as she patted Ricky''s back before a sleazy smile covered his face.


    ''Wet touch.''


    "Ha~" Ms. Collins let out a sensual moan as she was being held in Ricky''s arms before her eyes widened in horror.


    "Ms. Collins-" Ricky wanted to ask only to have his grasps suddenly empty.


    "You need to go." Ms. Collins pushed herself off of Ricky with a clear reddened face while doing her best to show an angry expression.


    "Did I do something wrong-"


    "GET OUT!" Ms. Collins roared as Ricky showed a surprise gaze before slowly walking out of the room.


    *Thump*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Ms. Collins collapsed to the ground in the next second as she gripped her shoulders as her body shivered in pleasure.


    "AH~" Ms. Collins let out a guilty moan, her panties were soaked to the brim as she fell to the floor.


    Unbelieving at what happened, Ms. Collins ran her fingers down and under her skirt before taking them up covered in her own love juices.


    Spreading them, a web of lust formed which interconnected each and everyone of her fingers all the while she looked horrified.


    ''Did I just-...by Ricky''s touch?''


    Meanwhile in front of the school,


    "Aye Skid!" Ricky called out to Jake who was waiting on the roof of the car along with Rocco and Edward.


    "Slick, I got four girls from the neighboring high school-" Rocco ran over to him only for Ricky to push him away and make a B-line for Jake.


    "Skid, how good are you with numbers?" Ricky excitedly asked, grabbing Jake''s shoulders as he showed an apprehensive and foreboding gaze.


    "Well my big bro always forced me to learn all sorts of arithmetic-"


    "Great, amazing, Skid come work for me and be my right hand!" Ricky''s eyes were piercing as Jake showed a shocked look along with Edward and Rocco.


    Being someone''s right-hand man in the mob was no laughing matter; it was a position that only a few could dream of and yet, Jake was offered the role on a random Thursday.


    ''Stick close to Slick.'' Those words echoed in Jake''s mind as he recalled the sound advice Meyer had given him all those years ago.


    Initially, that''s all it had been, just advice.


    Jake only associated with Ricky as it seemed beneficial to be in that position until it no longer became association but true friendship.


    Jake had truly come to think of Ricky as his closest friend and enjoyed being around him which made this moment even more memorable for him.


    "I-I don''t know what to say." Jake choked up a little as Ricky patted his back.


    "Say yes." Ricky encouraged as Jake nodded while wiping his dry eyes.


    "It''d be an honor Slick." Jake showed a toothy smile as Ricky let out a bostious laugh.


    "Great, GREAT!" Ricky let out a maniacal as a weight had been lifted off his shoulder in the matter of seconds.


    "What about us Slick!" Edward dropped the donut in his hand while asking incredulously at Jake''s promotion.


    "Well, I''m not in the market for a fat ass or a horn dog but when I am, I''ll notify you." Ricky backed up while shrugging, making Jake let out a hysterical laugh.


    "Anyways Skid, meet me at the Stork club later so we''ll discuss your duties!" Ricky walked back towards the school while notifying Jake.


    "Got it Slick, I''ll be waiting!" Jake excitedly spoke as Rocco and Edward gave him jealous stares.


    "Wait what about my plan-"


    "Can''t Rocco, busy with this uptight club." Ricky gestured, thinking that was the end to it only to see Rocco suddenly get in the way.


    "But Slick-"


    "Rocco, no, maybe some other time." Ricky patted Rocco''s shoulder, moving him to the side and waltzing into the school.


    "Fine, I don''t need you both anyways! Me and Edward will pick up those fine honey''s by ourselves!" Rocco yelled at Ricky''s departing back, Edward showing a look of surprise since they hadn''t tried to get laid without Ricky or Jake being their winmans.


    "We will?" Edward honestly asked with Rocco nudging his side causing the latter to rub his stomach.


    "Yeah, so shut up and follow me." Rocco then hooked his arm around Edward and led him towards the promised land.


    Ricky ignored them and walked inside, knowing a Skull and Bones meeting was scheduled for today and required his attention.


    Making his way to a building in the southern part of the school, he eventually reached familiar double doors. He pushed them open to reveal numerous members.


    They were still finding their seats, but the council was already seated at the back, slightly elevated in chairs that resembled those a judge would sit in.


    "Ricky!" Maria waved, and he smiled almost immediately upon seeing her as he walked over and sat down right next to her.


    Maria had become a bubbly socialite due to Ruth''s guidance, finding a friend did wonders for her which allowed her to come out of her shell more which only seemed to highlight her beauty.


    "Looking gorgeous as ever, Maria." Ricky whispered as Maria blushed before turning away shyly.


    At first, Maria didn''t know why Ricky seemed to warm her heart with his every soothing word or how it ached when she saw him talk with another girl until her uncle helped her realize.


    She was in love.


    However, it wasn''t just any simple love; it was a young girl''s first love, a feeling always elevated to new heights and destined to be the most memorable.


    Ricky wasn''t a fool and knew how Maria acted however he was waiting for the perfect time and today was that day.


    The touring circus known to hold these so-called mutants like himself were finally in town after touring all across the world and Ricky was going to ask Maria on a date.


    "Before the meeting starts Maria, can I talk to you?" Ricky asked as Maria had a hopeful look while cutely nodding her head.


    Grabbing her delicate hand, Ricky led her out of the hall as a pair of eyes locked onto their figures before someone on the council stood up.


    "Ruth." Henry side-eyed a clearly distressed Ruth who was staring with immense jealousy.


    Ruth was a profoundly shallow individual, a trait evident not just in her actions but also in her personality.


    She had invested fortunes in fine-tuning her appearance into the brunette beauty she was now, but this obsession came with a significant flaw.


    Ruth was exceedingly picky when it came to men as countless suitors had failed to meet her standards, which included two very specific conditions.


    Firstly, the man needed to be less influential and poorer, a criterion that Ricky easily fulfilled.


    Secondly, he needed to meet her exacting standards for looks, which Ricky had seemingly surpassed.


    Upon meeting Ricky for the first time, Ruth had already internally approved of him. However, when she saw Ricky''s +5 appearance after his makeover, she blushed so intensely that she was sent home with a fever.


    Since then, Ruth had been using Maria to gather any and all information she could about Ricky.


    The loving Maria, however, mistook Ruth''s greed for Ricky as friendship with relative ease.


    "I want him and I always get what I want." Ruth sneered at Henry who only shook his head since he couldn''t stand girls like Ruth but could do nothing about her.


    In the hallway, Ricky guided Maria to his locker until her back was firmly pressed against it.


    Maria gazed longingly into Ricky''s green eyes, her naive form of love manifesting into a perfect and uncanny admiration that matched Ricky perfectly.


    "Maria there is a circus coming to town and I was wondering-"


    "YES!"


    *COUGH*


    "I-I-I''m sorry." Maria blushed furiously, her excitement exploding outwards prematurely causing her to immediately apologize.


    Covering her face, Maria felt horrible for interrupting Ricky since she thought that she had unknowingly insulted his courage to ask her out.


    "Why are you apologizing?" Ricky chuckled, seeing how Maria was about to break down and pulled her into his embrace.


    "I didn''t mean to ruin your courage, I''m so sorry~" Maria started crying as her words utterly confused Ricky.


    "My courage?" Ricky let out a weird chain of laughs while Maria gripped the back of her skirt


    "My Uncy said that a man''s courage is everything and that boils down to when they confess and when they get a response to their confession." Maria hit her head against his chest, thinking she had stomped all over his courage and cutely punished herself.


    "Maria, you accepting my confession makes me happy not sad." Ricky chuckled, swaying her left and right as they seemingly started dancing.


    "R-Really." Maria looked up as her mascara started to bleed a little, Ricky being the gentleman he was, pulled out a handkerchief and dabbed it for her.


    "Really." Ricky then affirmed her words, leaning down once he finished as Maria closed her eyes in anticipation.


    In the next moment, their lips met in a fiery collision, igniting sparks in Maria''s mind as she willingly surrendered herself to Ricky.


    He savored the sensation of her soft lips, then deftly took control, exploring her inexperienced mouth with his own.


    *Ahem*


    "I don''t mean to intrude on you two lovers but the meeting is about to start." Ruth forcefully interjected herself into the moment.


    "R-Ruth?!" Maria pushed away from Ricky as he frowned at the sweet taste forcefully ripped away from him.


    "Come on Ricky, we need to go back to the meeting." Maria grabbed Ricky''s hand while urgently leading him back into the room with a heavy blush adorning her face.


    "Oh honey no." Ruth stopped her as Maria flinched with Ruth untangling her hand from Ricky''s.


    "Your masquerade is bleeding, we need to fix you up cause right now you are such a mess~" Ruth joked, making Maria suddenly realize something while covering her face, taking out her pocket mirror and looking.


    Although she tried her best, it was still a lackluster job which made her immediately bolt towards the girls bathroom.


    However Ricky frowned since he clearly felt the underhanded insult in Ruth''s words which made him feel immediately annoyed.


    Ricky wasn''t only experienced in only love making but slightly in the inner workings of women and although it is impossible to understand them fully, he still knows a thing or too.


    One of those things is how ruthless women can be to their own friends. It was surprising when he first learned this but as time passed his attention to it became clearer.


    "Ricky I have to go, save me a spot." Maria yelled back at him before entering the bathroom, pulling Ruth with her though she was staring at Ricky.


    Winking at him playfully, Ruth turned to follow Maria as Ricky squinted his eyes since although Ruth was a target, that was it.


    Ricky definitely didn''t want anything more than a physical relationship with Ruth or maybe making her his mistress, but now he understood that she wanted more than that, which could make the future troublesome.


    ''I''ll need to find a way to deal with her.'' Ricky was about to go back into the meeting until he saw a letter sticking out of his locker.


    Curious, Ricky grabbed it and read the contents only for him to let out a laugh at the perfect timing.


    Ricky walked back into the meeting hall while making direct eye contact with Henry before they nodded to each other seemingly signaling something.


    Meanwhile in the bathroom,


    "Soooooo, spill it~" Ruth playfully nudged Maria, watching her clean off the bleeding mascara before her cheeks tinted red.


    "He asked me out." Maria squealed as Ruth''s face shattered into pieces though when Maria turned to her, she showed a smile.


    "I''m so happy for you~" Ruth held out her arms as they hugged before her expression dropped into a cold one.


    "Tell me all about it, I want to know everything."


    Maria then explained her interaction with a dreamy expression all the while Ruth continued to force a smile.


    "Oh no~" Ruth suddenly put a hand on her mouth right when Maria finished causing the naive girl to incessantly worry.


    "W-What is it?" Maria asked worriedly but Ruth turned away.


    "No, I shouldn''t say since I don''t want you to worry-"


    "Ruth please~" Maria grabbed Ruth''s shoulders as she saw her only friend let out a tired sigh.


    "Maybe it''s just me, but I think you might be moving a little too fast." Ruth confessed as her eyes flashed with malicious intent.


    "W-Wha-"


    "And I also think you''re being a little too pushy with Ricky, I mean you practically lunged at him." Ruth''s words made Maria face drop in worry as she covered her mouth.


    "W-What should I do!" Maria asked as her tears welled up as Ruth shook her head.


    "If it was me, I''d take it slower and make him work for it." Ruth gave false advice as Maria listened on battered breath.


    "R-Really?" Maria asked as Ruth smiled while caressing her curly black hair with a warm touch.


    "Of course, would I ever lie to you."


    Maria sneaked into the meeting a little while later as she sat down next to Ricky with a nervous expression.


    "Ricky?" Maria whispered as Ricky raised an eyebrow but leaned down to let her whisper into his ear.


    "D-Do you think we''re moving too fast?" Maria anxiously asked, making Ricky''s eyebrow twitch.


    "Not at all." Ricky tried to ease her worries while side-eying Ruth who winked at him again before turning back to the meeting.


    "Maybe you only asked me out because I''m being too pushy-" Maria had gotten into her own head at this point and was self sabotaging herself.


    "Maria." Ricky took both hands as she slightly shook from his touch, her beautiful blue eyes gazing up at Ricky''s warm smile.


    "I assure you, I asked you out not because you forced me, but because you''ve captivated my every thought." Ricky took both her hands in an assuring manner, watching her worried face blossom into a warm smile.


    "Really?" Maria''s unease washed away almost immediately letting Ricky nod his head.


    "Of course Maria, you''re a one of a kind gal and I''m lucky that you''re even this taken with me." Ricky caressed Maria''s cheek as she leaned into his touch.


    "Oh Ricky~"


    "Excuse me, is there a problem?" Ruth suddenly voiced out towards Ricky and Maria, seeing their behavior and disrupting it on the guise of them disrupting the meeting.


    "Nope, carry on." Ricky assured Ruth who scrunched her eyebrows but before she could say something, Henry glared at her.


    "Ruth, you better watch yourself, this isn''t a time where you can throw around your authority." Henry whispered in a threatening tone until she saw the other council members glaring at her with disapproving expressions.


    Ruth gnashed her teeth, but leaned back in her chair while gazing daggers at Maria who ducked her head.


    The meeting ended and as soon as it did, Ricky shuffled Maria out of the hall before Ruth could even get in their radius.


    "Ruth!" Henry called out as Ruth was about to charge after Ricky and Maria.


    "You''re going too far." Henry warned with the other council members slowly circling around her.


    "Do you really want to do this now, you''ll regret it?" Ruth showed a hideous scowl though none of the members flinched.


    "Although I hate that negro lover, he''s someone that can''t be messed with." Joseph with a thick southern accent, with a scowl mirroring Ruth''s, actually saw the reasoning through his hate while warning her to back off.


    "That Alabama hick is right, Ricky''s position in the world is similar but vastly different." Jerry pointed out as Joseph gritted his teeth at his blatant disrespect.


    "You can''t bully Ricky like us Ruth, it''s literally going to get you killed." Randal shook his head since he knows all too well what happens to the men who mess with the Luciano family.


    "And his family also got a 35% bump in their power due to them taking over all of the Irish mob''s mobs activities in Harlem." Robert adjusted his glasses as the others all nodded at this.


    "Do you even know who I am?" Ruth scornfully mocked, her true colors started to bleed much like Maria''s mascara from earlier.


    "Ruth, your actions will comprise not only your position but-"


    "One word." Ruth held up one finger forcing them all to look at her with squinted eyes.


    "All it takes is one to make not only my father, but my grandfather hold each and everyone one of your parents'' company by the balls." Ruth showed her might, forcing them all to look away except one.


    "You think I''m afraid of you Ruth?" Henry, the only person who could avoid the wrath of a Rockefeller, asked out but Ruth simply smiled.


    "I only need the majority to be afraid of me." Ruth pointed at the rest of them, following the direction where he saw the others unable to take his side any longer.


    "Stay out of my way Henry or you''ll regret it."


    An hour after the meeting concluded, Ricky drove Maria home, knowing the circus wouldn''t start for another five hours.


    Despite wanting to spend more time with her, he was dismissed on the pretext that she wasn''t "prepared."


    Returning to a predetermined spot, Ricky waited patiently until a Ford pulled up and Henry got out.


    "Ricky." Henry nodded as Ricky smirked while standing up and shaking the hand of his handler.


    That letter was a simple time and place where Henry gave his regard, signaling he wanted to meet up.


    "Why did you send me that letter, is it because of Ruth?" Ricky asked though he didn''t need an immediate answer as Henry sighed heavily.


    "Ricky, she''s out of control." Henry walked over and leaned against Ricky''s Cadillac, furrowing his brows upon seeing the emblem.


    "A Cadillac, really?" Henry frowned after understanding the make and model only for Ricky to give him a shrug.


    "What, it''s not like you''ll just give me a Ford-"


    "Done, anyways Ruth has become too much as of late." Henry, without blinking, willingly agreed to give Ricky a car while getting to the topic.


    "Not only is she a Rockfellar but her father controls the highest grossing steel company in this age." Henry clicked his tongue since as of late, Ford Motors stock price has been falling due to his incompetent father.


    "However, the problem is that John. D Rockefeller has holdings in all of the council''s companies." Henry conveyed the truth as Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "I thought you were the leader-"


    "HAHAHAHAHAHA!" Henry burst out laughing at Ricky''s words as he almost fell off the car.


    "Me, the leader?" Henry pointed to himself in a self deprecating way.


    "Ricky, she basically let me be the leader because she doesn''t want to do the added work that comes with it." Henry sighed after telling the truth, making Ricky understand something as he smirked.


    "Oh Henry." Ricky patted Henry''s shoulder, his eyebrows raised at this since Ricky almost fell for it.


    "I''m not helping you without a price." Ricky could see where Henry was getting at and quickly took control of the conversation.


    "Ha, alright fine what do you want." Henry dropped the facade and got to the point as Ricky''s smile extended.


    "I want a seat at the table." Ricky spoke words that Henry knew he was going to hear.


    "It''s not that simply-"


    "Then figure it out." Ricky interrupted Henry who sighed heavily, but eventually nodded in response.


    "Then-"


    "I also want you to handle all the aftermath that comes with it and also I want my position to be in name only, I don''t want to do any work either." Ricky fired off more conditions which only made Henry scrunch his eyebrows.


    "Then wouldn''t I simply be replacing Ruth with you?" Henry was in disbelief, unable to understand why he would agree to this.


    "Well, who would you rather have, me or Ruth?" Ricky genuinely asked Henry, who was about to retort, only to halt his words.


    Honestly, compared to Ruth who always has to have things go her way in everything, Ricky doesn''t even care about his status within the club and simply comes to meetings for the free booze and food.


    "Neither, but I guess I''ll settle for you." Henry joked prompting Ricky to burst into an enormous fit of laughter.


    Ricky didn''t need to think about it for long, readily agreeing to Henry''s demands as he composed himself, he looked directly at Henry and spoke with a sleazy smile.


    "Now listen closely, I have a plan."


    Meanwhile, in a secret room in the Vatican, a priest knelt on both knees, clenching his necklace tightly.


    "Father Sebastion, signs of Dracula have been discovered in New York." A voice was heard from the darkness.


    Then within the next seconds, candles started lighting up in a flurry while revealing the upper brass of the church seated above while gazing down at Father Sebastion.


    "You are to meet up with Abraham Van Helsing and use the power of god to assist the cursed one in his mission to vanquish that horrid creature from this world at last." Another voice came as Father Sebastion sighed heavily at this, grabbing his forehead in immense distress.


    "Holy council, may you send another to be Abraham''s handler, I''m afraid he is too troublesome and uncooperative." Father Sebastion asked in a pleading tone, only to see the answer written on their faces.


    "By the grace of god." Father Sebastion sighed in a dejected manner as the other council members nodded.


    "By the grace of god, may he guide you on this treacherous path."

 Chapter 28: First Date With Maria

    Chapter 28: First Date With Maria


    Later that night,


    Pulling up to the Profaci compound, Ricky was immediately recognized by the guards, who swiftly opened the gates to allow him entry.


    He drove down the long, winding driveway, finally parking in front of the grand mansion that loomed ahead.


    Stepping out of the car, Ricky smoothed his clothes and picked up a bouquet of roses from the passenger seat.


    The fresh blooms contrasted sharply with the austere surroundings, their vivid colors standing out against the mansion''s imposing facade.


    With a purposeful stride, he walked up the marble steps, the weight of the occasion reflected in every measured step.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    Ricky knocked on the heavy wooden door, the sound echoing in the quiet of the evening.


    Moments later, the door swung open to reveal a haggard Profaci, his eyes weary and shoulders slumped.


    Upon seeing Ricky, Profaci let out a sigh of relief, the tension momentarily easing from his worn features.


    "Oh thank god you''re here." Profaci looked as if he was on the verge of tears, his eyes glassy and full of confusion while gesturing for Ricky to come in, his hand trembling slightly.


    "Are you al-"


    "No, Princess has been running me and the entire family around town to prepare for your date." Profaci confessed, stumbling over to the side before grabbing a bottle of wine and downing it within seconds.


    "I swear on baby Jesus, she has bought every dress at every boutique in New York city." Profaci rubbed his forehead in distress, looking as if he aged a couple years.


    "PRINCESS, SLICK''S HERE!" Profaci suddenly hollared up the stairs, his voice cracking slightly though instead of Maria, Ninfa appeared.


    "Ricky sweety, Maria''s not ready yet can you wait a minute?" Ninfa said in a elegant tone, making Ricky slowly nod at her words.


    "Great, she''ll be out soon." Ninfa clasped her hands together with a smile, walking back into a particular room.


    "Then I guess I''ll entertain you for the next hour." Profaci cracked a joke, drawing a genuine laugh from Ricky as he followed him into the living room.


    "Princess, you need to calm down." Ninfa hurried deeper into the enormous room, revealing the sight of Maria surrounded by dozens of dresses.


    "Aunty I need to be perfect, PERFECT!" Maria reached up to grab her hair but froze, realizing she had almost messed up her freshly done perm.


    "Baby girl, he''s gonna love whatever you put on-"


    "YOU DON''T KNOW THAT!" Maria stood up and began anxiously tossing the dresses around, while Ninfa sighed in exasperation.


    "This might take a while."


    30 minutes later,


    "PUAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky cracked up in maniacal laughter while Profaci took a puff of his cigar.


    "I swear that to this day, whenever I step into a train I always smell sh*t." Profaci sighed heavily as Ricky frantically tried to process the story he had just heard.


    "Uncle you''re crazy." Ricky wiped his eyes, snickering throughout his words only to see Profaci simply shrug.


    "Tell that to the operator-" Profaci tried to retort until his whole body froze, making Ricky instinctively follow his line of sight until he also froze.


    "Maria?" Ricky stood up in shock as Ninfa pushed a shy Maria into the living room with the most beautiful blue sundress Ricky had ever seen.


    Black lines that elegantly curved into the images of flowers adorned the dress as dark blue pulled them all together.


    "You''re beautiful." Ricky spoke out his genuine thoughts as Maria cheeks flushed red in embarrassment.


    Profaci felt a pang of emotion, almost on the verge of tears, as he recalled the image of a young girl sobbing at her father''s tombstone.


    Now, standing before him was a proud and graceful woman.


    ''If you could see her now Tony, I did right by you.'' Profaci sniffed while rubbing his eyes before pushing Ricky forward.


    *Sniff*


    "I''ll put your balls in a jar if you don''t come back with her by ten~" Profaci spoke in a voice that trembled with emotion, wiping his watering eyes.


    Ricky initially thought he was joking, but the intensity in Profaci''s deadly gaze quickly dispelled any doubts.


    "UNCLE~" Maria whined while stomping her foot on the floor, but Profaci didn''t budge.


    "I''m serious Ricky, I got a collection-"


    "URGH, YOUR SO GROSS!" Maria grunted, pulling Ricky who tried to keep his smile though it was faltering with every glance he took at the deadpan Profaci.


    "By hun hun, have a good date~" Ninfa waved with a proud smile, clearly pleased with herself for having done the makeup.


    *Sigh*


    "I swear, I don''t know whether I want to be happy for my princess or strangle Slick." Profaci shook his head, absently fiddling with his pinky ring, while Ninfa rolled her eyes and tugged on his tie.


    "What are you-"


    "I want to have a fun time too~" Ninfa winked and led him up the stairs, causing Profaci to break into a wild grin.


    Meanwhile outside the mansion,


    Ricky opened the car door for Maria, who carefully eased herself inside, taking great care to ensure her dress remained unblemished.


    "Ready?" Ricky asked and without hesitating Maria nodded her head, twiddling her fingers in a clearly anxious manner.


    "I''m nervous too." Ricky suddenly spoke as he pressed the gas pedal, causing the car to lurch forward as Maria looked up, startled by the abrupt words that correlated with her own thoughts.


    "R-Really?" Maria asked with a note of hope in her voice, finding a small measure of comfort in knowing Ricky was in the same predicament as she was.


    "Of course, I''m scared out of my mind that I''m going to ruin my chances with such a great gal like yourself." Ricky lied a bit since he wasn''t scared in the slightest and was actually in a good mood from talking to Profaci.


    However, to avoid making their date awkward, Ricky told a small fib, hoping it would help Maria relax and enjoy herself.


    "M-Me too." Maria smiled warmly as she glanced at her finger, which playfully danced with the light.


    The car ride became increasingly pleasant as Ricky gradually drew Maria out of her shell, engaging her in conversation about herself.


    By the time they arrived at the circus, the atmosphere between them was much more relaxed.


    Ricky kept the conversation flowing effortlessly, seamlessly shifting between current events and past memories, which had Maria chatting up a storm the entire time.


    However he didn''t simply monopolize the conversation since she might have intrusive thoughts about why she was only talking so every now and again, so to supplement this Ricky would ask questions.


    These questions wouldn''t be vague but focus on a certain topic so as to make it seem that he was completely attuned to her every word.


    "And you actually fell?" Ricky chuckled as Maria nodded with a toothy smile but instead of looking down at her hands, however, her gaze fixed directly on him.


    "Yep, it was a good thing that Uncle caught me or I could''ve been in serious trouble." Maria spoke with such vividness that it was as if she could see the memory as clearly as if it were unfolding right in front of her.


    "So did you-oh, we''re here." Ricky looked genuinely surprised, as if he had just realized he was the one driving the car, before they finally arrived at the circus.


    "Really?" Maria also showed a shocked expression before jerking her head to the front until her eyes widened when gazing at a large tent.


    Light maneuvered all around, casting playful shadows across the enormous tent adorned with red and white stripes.


    The air buzzed with anticipation as people began shuffling in, eager for the night''s spectacle.


    "Maria, you okay?"


    Maria suddenly flinched, seemingly entranced by the grandiose sight as she turned to the driver''s seat only to see Ricky not there.


    Only when she heard the sounds of laughter did Maria glance over to her car door, noticing it was already open with Ricky standing beside it, offering a warm smile.


    "Now I''m really glad I took you here." Ricky held out his hand, his eyes warm with a gentle invitation.


    Maria laughed softly, her eyes sparkling, before she gently rested her hand in his, their fingers intertwining naturally.


    However, just as she expected Ricky to release his grip, he tightened his hold and led Maria forward, his fingers securely wrapped around hers.


    "Come on, I think it''s about to start." Ricky pointed with his other hand as Maria fully came out of her shell while rushing forward with him, arm in arm, hand in hand.


    They purchased two tickets for the front row, and upon entering the tent, their eyes were immediately drawn to the circular arena.


    Seats wrapped around the center, which held a small platform and hanging prominently from the top was a large sign that read ''The Freak Show''.


    "So this is what a circus is like." Ricky purposely spoke loud enough for Maria to hear him while leading her to their seats.


    "You''ve also never been to a circus?" Maria curiously asked, plopping down right next to him.


    "I''ve always wanted to go, however I never had someone to go with, at least until now." Ricky bluntly flirted with Maria who smiled warmly at being special to him.


    "PEANUTS! GET YA PEANUTS HERE! ONLY 5 CENTS FOR A BAG OF PEANUTS! GOT TO HAVE THESE PEANUTS THERE SELLING LIKE HOTCAKES OVER HERE!" A man bellowed as Ricky took out a five dollar bill before waving it causing the man to immediately walk over.


    "We''ll take one bag." Ricky handed the five-dollar bill to the man, who looked surprised at the generous tip, as Ricky took the bag of peanuts in return.


    "Sir I don''t have change-"


    "Keep it as a tip." Ricky nodded in acknowledgment as the man, visibly appreciative, returned the gesture before hurrying off to sell the rest of his peanuts.


    "Wow fifty cents, these peanuts made of gold or something?" Maria gasped as she reached into the bag to inspect the peanuts, and Ricky laughed at her reaction.


    "What, what''s so funny?" Maria asked, cracking open one of the peanuts.


    "Nothing, you''re just my kinda girl." Ricky nudged her playfully, his words catching her off guard as she flinched, then ducked her head and took a slight nibble of the peanut.


    "HELLLLLLLLLLLO LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!" A loud roar sounded as all eyes turned towards the center to see a man dressed head and toe in a cliche ringmaster outfit.


    "BE PREPARED AND HOLD YOUR STOMACHS, TODAY YOU WILL SEE SIGHTS THAT WILL MAKE NOT ONLY GASP IN EXCITEMENT BUT HURL IN DISGUST!" The ringmaster called out to the crowd who laughed at the last part of his speech before he turned to the side.


    "NOW BEFORE YOU ALL IS NOT ONE, NOT TWO, BUT THREE REFRIGERATORS!" The ringmaster pointed toward three refrigerators being wheeled out into view, while Maria tilted her head in curiosity.


    "What do you think gonna happen Ricky?" Maria whispered to Ricky who tilted his head in confusion.


    "Honestly I''m stumped about this one-"


    "NOW LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, GIVE IT UP FOR MY FIRST OF MY MANY FREAKSHOWS!" The ringmaster pointed as a large man in overalls stepped into view, making his way out from behind the stage.


    "CHORES MACGILLICUDDY!" The ringmaster roared with enthusiasm as Chores calmly emerged into the spotlight.


    With bright orange hair, a small underbite, and an otherwise unremarkable appearance, he might have left the spectators puzzled.


    That is, until he stepped confidently beside the ringmaster.


    Standing at an impressive 6''9", Chores towered over the ringmaster, his large bulky figure complementing his formidable height.


    "NOW WATCH AS CHORES THE GIANT JUGGLES THESE REFRIGERATORS!" The ringmaster screeched in excitement as all of the spectators widened their eyes including Ricky.


    Then before all of their questioning eyes, Chores grabbed the refrigerators as his finger dug into the metal before he held it up into the air.


    *GASP*


    Large gasps echoed through the tent as Chores effortlessly lifted another refrigerator, now holding two in each hand.


    With a steady gait, he walked behind the last refrigerator and in a feat that seemed to defy human capability, he threw one refrigerator into the air, quickly picked up the remaining one, and began juggling the massive appliances.


    The sight of Chores effortlessly juggling refrigerators left every spectator in the tent wide-eyed and speechless with amazement.


    "How is he doing that Ricky?" Maria tugged at his sleeves but Ricky''s eyes were dead set on his figure.


    ''He''s got to be a mutant.'' Ricky''s eyes were locked onto Chores since his fathers words from a while ago rang in his ears.


    ''Slick, I want your gifts to be recognized by god.''


    Ricky wasn''t bothered by being perceived as a mutant since in his past life, he had grown accustomed to the disgusted whispers and hate-filled glances he received while begging for change out of boredom.


    However, his father wasn''t immune to the hateful eyes glaring at the stigma that made up his being.


    Lucky Luciano, a man known for his ironclad control and ruthless tactics, found it difficult to protect Ricky from the prejudice and fear that came with his extraordinary abilities.


    The Luciano family''s acceptance of Ricky''s gifts came at a high cost as anyone who dared to speak out against Ricky, calling him a freak, found themselves at the bottom of the river or swimming with the fishes.


    Lucky''s ruthlessness ensured that no dissent would be tolerated, and in a twisted way, this made Ricky feel more accepted.


    Ricky, though, was conflicted at Lucky''s constant plans for acceptance since it all seemed like too much work but went along with it primarily for his father''s sake, easing his worries seemed like the least he could do for everything Lucky had done for him.


    But as Ricky pondered his future, he realized he wanted to build something of his own like his father before him, a group of individuals like him, but with powers and mutant abilities like himself.


    The challenge, however, was immense since the so-called "X-gene" that granted him his powers seemed to be incredibly rare.


    Finding others like him in this time was akin to searching for a needle in a haystack since a large portion were either in hiding or were killed.


    Despite this, Ricky was readily determined as he envisioned a new family, one that wasn''t bound by blood but by the shared experience of being different in a world that feared them, that all rallied under him to make him a profit and do all the hard work he didn''t have the patience for.


    ''Oh yeah, mission ''find a bunch of powered lackeys to do all my work'' is finally starting to form.'' Ricky''s evil smile slowly started to form, seeing the first target as he cracked open a peanut.


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    The refrigerators suddenly crashed into the ground as a large dust cloud blew into the air before it cleared to reveal Chores bowing.


    "GIVE IT UP FOR THE FREAKISH GIANT CHORES, EVERYONE!" The ringmaster shouted at the top of his lungs as a thunderous applause roared in response.


    "NOW NEXT IS THE BEARDED LADY-"


    The next ''freaks'' didn''t even make Ricky amazed as Chores was the only noticeable act, at least in RIcky''s opinion, in this entire circus.


    Until the last act came on.


    "NOW LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, FOR OUR LAST ACT WE''LL BRING OUT OUR NEWEST AND MOST INTRIGUING FREAK." The ringmaster pointed to the side as a medium sized dog started prancing out from the side.


    "BARKO!" THe ringmaster introduced Barko who pranced onto the stage before sitting down in front of all of them.


    "A dog?" Ricky''s questioning words were repeated throughout the crowd as they looked at these seemingly normal black labrador.


    However what set this dog apart from the regular dog was that he was wearing thick rimmed goggles.


    "NOW BARKO, SPEAK!" The ringmaster roared as Barko sighed before looking up with a disgruntled expression.


    *Ahem*


    "Good evening everyone." Barko spoke with an air of disbelief, sounding as if he were a middle-aged man, causing Ricky''s jaw to drop in astonishment.


    "Holy sh*t, it can talk." Ricky let out an exasperated sigh as Maria giggled incessantly, finding Barko to be the cutest thing in the entire circus.


    The crowd roared in amazement though Barko seemingly was used to this response and starters scratching himself.


    "NOW BARKO, WHAT''S MY NAME!" The ringmaster called out though faced the crowd.


    "Carl." Barko rolled his eyes as the ringmaster''s eyebrow twitched.


    "CORRECT!" The ringmaster saved it and the crowd simply ate it up, laughing hysterically.


    The ringmaster began asking Barko a series of routine questions, such as the name of the current president and basic arithmetic problems, before eventually turning his attention towards Ricky.


    "YOUNG MAN, ASK BARKO ANYTHING!" The ringmaster pointed at Ricky as Maria jumped up and down in her seat from excitement.


    All eyes shifted to Ricky as the crowd waited with bated breath for him to speak as Ricky, meanwhile, took a moment to gather his thoughts.


    "Barko, were you a man before you became a dog?" Ricky asked a question that not only shocked the crowd but the two of Barko and Ringmaster.


    "Well yes, I was-"


    "NEXT QUESTION!" The ringmaster interrupted the happy Barko who was pleased that someone would ask him something different than weird and intrusive questions, like if he licked himself.


    Ricky frowned but shrugged, understanding the situation before sitting down next to an irritated Maria.


    "I can''t believe he ignored you like that!" Maria crossed her arms before Ricky used this chance to slink his arm around hers.


    "A hug would make me feel better." Ricky shamelessly said, taking Maria into his arms as she started panicking.


    Before she could say a word, Ricky pulled Maria into a warm embrace as her face nestled into his shirt, the comforting scent of his cologne soothing her as she wrapped her arms around his back.


    Ricky released her shortly after, but he kept her close, sitting side by side rather than next to each other, simply enjoying each other''s company in silence.


    As Barko pranced off, he glanced back at Ricky and after seeing that Ricky wasn''t paying attention to his departure, Barko sighed and continued on his way.


    "I HOPE YOU ENJOYED MY FREAK SHOW AND I HOPE YOU COME BACK SINCE WE WILL BE HERE ALL OF THIS WEEK AND THE NEXT ONE AFTER THAT!" The ringmaster took off his top hat before bowing as Ricky stood up with Maria.


    "Hey Maria, want to see the acts up close?" Ricky whispered to Maria who looked at him with a questioning gaze.


    "What do you mea-eep!" Maria asked only to see Ricky lug her to the side causing her to let out a little squeal.


    "Come on."


    Instead of following the other excited people out of the entrance, the both of them sneakily followed the departing Ringmaster.


    "Ricky we shouldn''t-"


    "Don''t you want to pet Barko?" Rick quickly enticed her as Maria shut her mouth, biting her lip since she really wanted to pet Barko.


    "Ok." Maria whispered cutely as Ricky resisted the urge to hug her, slowly following the ringmaster backstage.


    Meanwhile in Manhattan,


    "Rocco, I don''t think this is a good idea." Edward spoke nervously as Rocco drove them into a deserted parking lot.


    "Oh come on Edward, grow some hair on yer balls and shut up." Rocco nudged Edward while he got out of the car.


    "These betty''s are seriously out of this world and-speak of the devil!" Rocco interrupted himself, his attention drawn to a girl sitting in the distance, partially obscured by a thin veil of fog.


    "Come on Eddy, they''re waiting for us!" Rocco urged him, walking in a certain direction as Edward bit his lip but got out of the car to follow him.


    "Ladies, I didn''t mean to make you two-AHHH!" Rocco stayed cool and collected until his eyes fell upon a horrifying sight.


    The two girls who were supposed to meet them were sitting on the bench, but instead of living beings, their brutalized corpses lay slumped there.


    Each victim had a chunk of their necks brutally ripped out, leaving gaping, bloody wounds as some stray streams of blood trailed down their pale skin.


    Their eyes were rolled back in their sockets, frozen in a ghastly expression of terror, suggesting they had been conscious during the attack.


    The color of their dead skin mirrored Rocco''s own as he turned ghostly pale, his eyes shrinking as if forcing him to observe every horrid detail.


    The grotesque scene churned his stomach, and he instinctively covered his mouth, struggling to keep from vomiting.


    "BLERGH!"


    However Rocco couldn''t hold back his dinner and threw it all up, stumbling backwards before Edward rushed over to him.


    "Rocco what are-JESUS CHRIST!" Edward yelled before a echoed laughter sounded from a nearby alley.


    "Isn''t it ironic of you to depict my actions in such a holy light." A dark, husky voice resonated in the alley, its sinister tones sending shivers down Rocco''s spine.


    Suddenly, a pair of red eyes pierced the darkness, glowing ominously as the malevolent gaze seemed to bore into Rocco''s soul, filling him with a dread he had never known before.


    Their horrified eyes locked onto an elegantly dressed figure stepping out from the shadows, exuding an aura of nobility.


    But it was only upon seeing the man''s face that they realized his true nature as he bore the unmistakable features of a monster of Dracula himself.


    "What shall I do? You saw something you weren''t supposed to see yet I''m completely full." Dracula caressed his chin with intrigue, looking at the scared little blood bags before him.


    "S-S-S-S-Shall I take care of these two Lord Dracula?" One of Pep''s most loyal subordinates, Harold, tentatively asked Dracula who side-eyed him.


    "With what? That little contraption you call a ''gun''?" Dracula wore an amused smile as Harold looked down in shame.


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    Rocco, despite Dracula''s apparent disinterest in the two teenagers, fired off four bullets as the bullets sliced through the air, each embedding itself in Dracula''s body.


    Dracula let out a small, amused chuckle that gradually morphed into hysterical laughter.


    Both Edward and Rocco''s eyes widened in terror, their hands shaking as the sinister sound echoed in the alley.


    *Dink*


    *Dink*


    *Dink*


    *Dink*


    The bullets were seemingly ejected from Dracula''s flesh, clinking on the ground before settling beneath his feet.


    Then, in a split second, Dracula closed the distance, grabbing the petrified Rocco''s arm as his smile twisted into a bloodthirsty grin as he loomed over the terrified teenager.


    *SPLAT*


    Dracula ruthlessly tore Rocco''s very arm from his body, the sound of his flesh ripping forcing itself into the horrified ears of Edward who fell to the ground in shock.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Rocco let out a screech of maddening pain as his blood sprayed everywhere, painting the alley in crimson and just as the horror seemed unbearable, something miraculous occurred.


    The blood, instead of falling to the whims of gravity, suddenly stopped in the air, slowly gathering into a swirling ball which hovered to the side.


    Dracula, annoyed by Rocco''s incessant screaming, didn''t wait to drain him entirely and with a swift, cold motion, he grabbed Rocco''s neck, silencing him instantly.


    *CRUNCH*


    *GULP*


    Dracula bit into Rocco''s neck, crushing his windpipe, and greedily gulping the gushing blood.


    The once horrified alley was now filled with the sickening sound of Dracula''s feeding, his teeth sinking deeper into Rocco''s flesh, his eyes gleaming with a sinister hunger.


    Blood poured out, coating Dracula''s lips and staining his immaculate attire, but he paid no mind, lost in the ecstasy of the kill.


    *THUMP*


    Rocco''s body, now nothing more than a dried husk, dropped to the ground with a lifeless thud while Dracula straightened, a look of satisfaction crossing his features.


    His eyes, still gleaming with that monstrous hunger, surveyed the scene with a cold, detached amusement.


    The alley was silent except for the faint rustle of the wind, a stark contrast to the horror that had just unfolded.


    "Now I''m full~" Dracula let out a refreshed sigh, taking out a weird looking flash before ordering the ball of blood into it.


    "R-Rocco?" Edward was letting out tears of grief and sorrow as it wasn''t because he was scared, but because one of his best friends had perished before his very eyes.


    "Take care of the fat one, I''m on a diet." Dracula beckoned to the shivering Harold who nodded and pulled out his pistol.


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *THUMP*


    Harold fired five shots into Edward''s body, the bullets tearing through him and leaving him in a lifeless, immobile state.


    The young teenager collapsed onto the pavement, his eyes filled with tears as he watched the departing figures of the two assailants.


    "Now let us go back." Dracula beckoned as Harlod simply nodded though started gathering courage.


    "About helping Dutch-"


    "I''ll send some of my ghouls." Dracula scoffed, recognizing the request of the insignificant human named Harold.


    With a dismissive wave, he watched as Harold, eager and insistent, bobbed his head in agreement.


    Dracula then turned and glided into the alleyway, disappearing from view as Harold followed, his footsteps echoing in the narrow space.


    Edward gazed up at the night sky, his body wracked with new wounds that caused his blood to flow out like a raging river.


    It pooled on the pavement around him, creating a disturbing scene in the dimly lit alley as only one word coursed through his mind.


    ''Why?''

 Chapter 29: Bad News That Ruins A Good Day

    Chapter 29: Bad News That Ruins A Good Day


    "What did I say about revealing your identity, Barko?" Carl, the ringmaster of the ''Freak Show'' yelled at a dog who was visibly frowned.


    "It''s bad for business-"


    "IT''S BAD FOR BUSINESS!" Carl seemingly repeated Barko''s words but in a louder voice as Barko sighed helplessly.


    "You''re even lucky I even took in a freak like you, yet with all my graciousness all I get is this attitude." Carl scoffed before storming away from Barko whose ears drooped downwards.


    "Psst, hey Barko." Ricky whispered in just a high enough tone that Barko''s ears raised back up.


    "What are yo-"


    "Shhhhhhh, come here." Ricky placed a finger on his lips before beckoning him over.


    Barko raised an eyebrow but walked around the corner to see not only Ricky but Maria as well.


    "You''ll get in trouble if Carl finds you here." Barko warned but Ricky waved him off.


    "Who cares and anyways, my interest in you far outweighs my fear of getting caught." Ricky informed him as Barko titled his head but nodded since it did make sense.


    "Then what do you want anyways-please don''t pet me without permission." Barko had a deadpan expression as Maria started unconsciously petting his fur.


    "Oh, sorry." Maria let out in an apologetic tone as Barko nodded, adjusting his goggles with one of his paws.


    "You''re forgiven." Barko curtly accepted her apology before looking back at a frowning Ricky.


    "Don''t be a square, let her pet ya." Ricky''s words made Barko frown as he looked back to Maria puppy dog eyes.


    *SIGH*


    "Fine but not the ears." Barko gave out his conditions and Maria squealed out in excitement while immediately petting his soft black furs.


    "Alright, what is it you desire from me?" Barko asked and Ricky nodded with a smile.


    "Are you a mutant?" Ricky asked and Barko thought for a while before eventually nodding.


    "If you''re asking if I have the inherent genes most humans possess, then yes." Barko informed Ricky, who bent down with a look of intrigue.


    "Elaborate." Ricky asked while Barko frowned at this demanding tone of his.


    "Most humans carry a gene that typically remains dormant throughout their lives." Barko explained while Ricky patiently listened.


    "However during special circumstances like extreme strain or stress, this inherent gene can awaken or some people are simply born with it awakened." Barko explained, Ricky immediately confirming his suspicions of others knowing about this X-Gene.


    "The X-gene, right?" Ricky suddenly spoke out words that made Barko raise an eyebrow in intrigue.


    "It doesn''t have a scientific classification yet, but if you want then yes, the X-gene." Barko waved his paw, gesturing that they could classify it as such.


    "How did yours awaken?" Ricky asked, thinking there was a madness behind his scientific goggles, yet his words forced the dog into silence.


    "Before I became this lowly mut before you, I was a researcher at the Atomic Research Center and had been trying to decipher this complex gene, it was my life''s work." Barko then looked down, recalling that fateful day before gazing back up at the tilted head Ricky.


    "The X-Gene, my X-Gene, awoke from the sudden shock of one of my experiments causing my X-Gene to manifest into the permanent appearance you see before you." Barko explained but this only made Ricky immediately confused.


    "But if they were researching how to awaken the gene then-"


    "Child, our experiments weren''t simply theoretical but used in a practical sense." Barko shamefully said, his research taking him past the more ethical approach and Ricky immediately understood.


    "Does that guy named Chores also have our gene?" Ricky suddenly asked, his question not only getting a response but a scoff.


    "Good luck with-wait, did you say ''ours''." Barko suddenly realized something and turned back to Ricky who simply smiled.


    "Maria stop petting Barko, we have one more pit stop before we go." Ricky looked around before he started walking in a certain direction.


    Maria gave Barko one more head patt before catching up to him as the medium sized black lab stood there in shock.


    "Wait!" Barko dashed after Ricky, weaving through the tents that housed the various freaks with his eyes catching Ricky entering a medium-sized tent up ahead.


    "There you are-move Barko." Ricky was about to walk into the tent until a panting Barko blocked his path.


    "Kid you need to leave, this isn''t a friendly space for our kind-"


    "Move." Ricky didn''t even care to heed Barko''s warning, easily pushing past the dog as Maria curiously followed.


    "Hey Chores." Ricky boisterously walked into the tent to see Chores sitting down while reading a book.


    Chores presumed it was a fellow member of the freak show until he raised an eyebrow when he saw Ricky.


    "How did you get back here?" Chores calmly asked, closing the book in his humongous hands while setting it aside.


    "I have a lucrative proposal for you if you''d care to listen." Ricky tried to entice but Chores simply shook his head.


    "You should leave, Carl will be very angry-"


    "That small fry? Yeah, I''d like to see him do anything to me." Ricky scoffed, seeing Carl only as a short and stubby man, whose only redeeming quality was how entertaining he was in making himself a laughing stock.


    "Anyways, I want you to come work for me?" Ricky flashed a cheeky smile, his forwardness resulting in Chores sighing lightly before shaking his head.


    "Please leave." Chores held out his hand in a gesture for him to leave however Ricky scratched chin.


    "Yeah, I guessed you wouldn''t come around that easily." Ricky then started thinking about how to intrigue Chores as the latter scrunched his eyebrows.


    "What about money, you like money? No? What about women, I can set you up with an all paid pass to any brothel owned by the Luciano family?" Ricky raised his eyebrows constantly, trying to entice the brute before him but Chores only pursed his lips.


    "Leave." Chores once again pointed for him to leave but Ricky bluntly refused to take up the hint as Barko started getting nervous.


    "Excuse me, what''s your name?" Barko quickly turned to Maria who was too focused on petting him once again.


    "Me doggy? I''m Maria." Maria joyfully answered as Barko let out an instinctive sigh.


    "Listen Maria, your boyfriend is about to get in a lot of-"


    "Boyfriend?!" Maria clasped her red cheeks in embarrassment, Barko becoming stunned at the sudden sight in front of him.


    "Huh-"


    "S-S-So do you think we look like a couple?" Maria started drawing circles on the ground as Barko was baffled at this love struck girl.


    "This isn''t-"


    "I don''t want to hurt you but you need to leave!" Chores raised his voice but Ricky simply shook his head.


    "Can''t do that champ, not until you at least hear me out." Ricky shrugged without paying his threatening glare only mind, receiving a scrutinizing as he reached out for him.


    "Fine I warned-"


    *Dink*


    "Huh?" Chores tried to reach out for Ricky only for his hand to bounce off by an invincible barrier.


    "What the-"


    "Told you we were one of the same." Ricky looked back and winked at the slack jawed Barko.


    "Your a freak-"


    "I can''t believe I''m saying this, but I like the term mutant better." Ricky shrugged, interrupting the surprised Chores.


    "I-I see." Chores showed actual surprise since people like him weren''t too common inside the circus however outside was a different story.


    There were two reasons that he stayed in this circus and public perception was one of them, he always received sacred and hateful glares which made him feel very isolated.


    This place might be a place where he was ridiculed for being himself on a daily basis, but it was the safest place he could think of that would accept him without trying to tie him to a stake and set him ablaze.


    "See Chores, we''re one of the same." Ricky gestured to Chores who visibly calmed down while sitting back down.


    "Before we converse, may I know your name?" Chores asked politely, and Ricky nodded, though he was a little surprised.


    Despite his intimidating appearance, Chores was surprisingly well-spoken and composed, a breath of fresh air in the midst of the carnival chaos.


    "Ricky Luciano, but you can call me Slick." Ricky held out his hand, and Chores chuckled before shaking it.


    "I''m surprised you asked for a handshake, weren''t you afraid I''d crush it?" Chores asked, releasing Ricky''s hand as the latter waved him off.


    "Oh come on, you might look like a brute but you sure as hell don''t act like one." Ricky''s nonchalant words caused a genuine smile to form on Chores face.


    "Rick-"


    "Slick."


    "My apologies, Slick, you seem like a very nice man but I''d have to once again kindly reject your offer." Chores showed a sad smile which only served to make Ricky frown.


    "Can I at least know the-"


    "Where is he!" Carl suddenly burst into the tent as Ricky turned back to see Chores second reason for staying.


    "Only authorized personnel are allowed to tour my freak show-oh pardon me." Carl furiously marched at Ricky until a hundred dollar bill appeared in his sights which made him immediately change his tone.


    "I didn''t mean to intrude but I couldn''t help my curiosity and wanted to meet the man who could actually juggle three refrigerators." Ricky put the hundred dollar bill in Carl''s pocket as he almost started drooling.


    "And this is for your troubles." Ricky put another hundred dollar bill in his pocket as Carl let out a dry gasp.


    "Let''s go Maria." Ricky beckoned to Maria who patted Barko''s head with a wide smile.


    "Good doggy." Maria whispered with a wink, only for Barko to nod in a weird daze though his gaze was still locked on Ricky.


    "If you ever change your mind, then come to Brooklyn and ask for Slick." Ricky nodded, slinking his arm around the cheerful Maria, the two love drunk kids walked back to their car while leaving three figures in the tent.


    "Hey Carl, about my the raise-"


    *SIGH*


    "After everything I''ve done for you and all the money I send your mother, do you really have any shame?" Carl showed a scowl as Chores simply lowered his gaze in a heart aching expression.


    "Can I at least know how she''s doing?" Chores asked but Carl simply scoffed while pocketing the hundred dollar bill.


    "She''s fine." Carl left those two words but it still made Chores smile as Barko flicked his head to the side.


    "CHORES, HE''S ONE OF US-"


    "Enough Karl, he''s different from us." Chores sighed, picking up the book as the excited Barko, better known to his friends as also Karl but with a K, drooped his ears.


    However, Carl didn''t like how similar their names were and ordered everyone to call him Barko, turning his stage name into his real name.


    "But he''s-"


    "He''s not a freak." Chores plainly said, putting on his absurdly small reading glasses in order to continue where he left off.


    "..." Barko''s tail slowly stopped wagging before he eventually nodded, slowly walking toward the exit.


    "Yeah I guess you''re right, he''s not a freak like us."


    The drive home was a pleasant one filled to the brim with laughs until they pulled up to Maria''s mansion to see a sadden Profaci.


    "Who died?" Ricky joked, opening the door as Profaci completely ignored Maria and walked over to him.


    Ricky had a foreboding feeling as Profaci stopped in front of him before he could open the door for Maria.


    "Slick, it''s about Rocco and Edward." Profaci got straight to the point as Ricky''s body slowly started to freeze in realization.


    "There was an accident, a gruesome one at that." Profaci took off his hat to pay his respect, watching Ricky''s sleazy smile slowly fade from his face.


    "Rocco didn''t make it and Edward''s in critical condition." Profaci completely broke the news to Ricky who stumbled back while putting his hand on his head.


    "B-But they were just-" Ricky''s words were cut short, as if the air had been abruptly sucked out of him.


    "Oh no." Maria covered her mouth in shock, her eyes fixed on Ricky, her heart beginning to ache.


    Ricky''s smile had completely faltered, breaking into a look of complete denial as he shook his head.


    "I-I need to go." Ricky quickly went into his car as Profaci tried to stop him.


    "Slick don''t do anything hasty-"


    But Ricky didn''t listen; his car spun around recklessly as he left Maria without even saying goodbye.


    "Uncle will he-"


    "He''ll be fine Princess, but he needs a day or two to regain his bearings." Profaci hugged Maria while leading her back into the mansion.


    Turning his head to see the car recklessly leave the Profaci family compound, he closed his eyes knowing the sight Ricky was about to see was a gruesome one.


    ''Stay strong kid.''


    Ricky was in a full-blown panic, driving recklessly with no regard for public safety, his eyes darting frantically around.


    Then, upon spotting Brooklyn Medical, he slammed on the brakes and bolted out of the car.


    Ricky didn''t even stop to take the keys out of the ignition as he burst into the hospital, only to find members of the Luciano family in the lobby.


    "Slick-"


    "WHERE IS HE!" Ricky demanded answers from the men with a fury, his face contorted into a bloodthirsty expression that made them all flinch.


    "Slick, you can''t see him, he''s in surgery." Jake walked up in front of him, trying to calm him down with subtle hand motions.


    *CRASH*


    "F*CK!" Ricky roared in anger, kicking a nearby chair and huffing loudly with Jake, standing nearby, patiently waiting for him to calm down.


    "Where''s Rocco-"


    "Slick that''s not a good idea-"


    "DAMMIT JAKE, TAKE ME TO HIM NOW!" Ricky saw the hesitance on Jake''s face and outright used his authority to make him comply.


    Jake opened his mouth, but then slowly closed it, nodding instead as he gestured for Ricky to follow and led him to the morgue located below the hospital.


    Ricky''s expression slowly crumbled, consumed by guilt and regret, as Jake led them to a covered body.


    Earlier today, Ricky had seen Rocco''s stupid smile, his voice full of excitement as he begged Ricky to come out and have some fun.


    But Ricky had just given him the cold shoulder, dismissing him with a casual shrug and now, the weight of that moment crushed him with a brutal intensity.


    Every glance of Rocco''s eager face replayed in his mind, a cruel reminder of the opportunity that he could have used to be there.


    The agony of loss gnawed at him, the regret searing deeper with every thought of how he had brushed off Rocco''s last request continued to replay in his mind.


    The sting of realizing he''d never hear Rocco beg him to help him pick up chicks, never able to get his back whenever he did something reckless, never getting to say goodbye, left him in unbearable torment.


    "Now Slick-" Jake tried to give him a warning but Ricky didn''t want to wait as he unveiled the mangled body of Rocco.


    Ricky''s eyes widened in horror, his pupils shaking violently at the sight of Rocco''s drained husk, a large portion of his neck bitten off with a gruesome expression still eclipsing Rocco''s face.


    "Who-.............who would do something like this?" Ricky''s breaths came in ragged, exasperated gasps, each word escaping his lips carrying a heavy burden of disbelief.


    ''How could something like this be possible?'' Ricky thought while Jake remained silent, his own grief palpable, as he mourned the fate of his childhood friend.


    In their line of work, they had seen their share of sickness, but this was a whole new level, even for the mob.


    Ricky''s hand trembled as he reached out, grabbing the side of the table holding onto Rocco''s lifeless body.


    The knuckles of his hand turned white, the effort to maintain his grip showing in the strained muscles of his arm.


    The reality of the situation weighed heavily on him, and the pain of loss and guilt threatened to overwhelm him.


    Blood trickled from his palms as sadness was slowly devoured by unbridled rage that threatened to break all reason within him.


    "Who was it?" Ricky''s voice was dangerous when asking as Jake closed his eyes with a small breath.


    "We think it''s the jewish mafia sending a message." Jake spoke while biting his lip since although he was in the Luciano, he''s jewish.


    "Those f*cking jews-" Ricky hatefully uttered until he saw Jake rubbing the back of his neck.


    *Ahem*


    "I mean those particular jews-"


    "Slick, it''s fine." Jake let out a small chuckle after seeing Ricky correct himself after remembering he was also jewish.


    Both of them shared a brief, bitter laugh, a feeble attempt to lighten the heavy atmosphere.


    However, the weight of their friend''s death quickly snuffed out the laughter, plunging them into an awkward silence.


    The reality of the situation settled in, casting a somber shadow over their thoughts and words.


    "Where''s pops-"


    *BAM*


    "EDDY!" A heart breaking screech made both Ricky and Jake turn their heads to the side before they rushed to the lobby.


    "Franky calm down-" Lucky tried to ease his long time friend only to be pushed back a little by the giant.


    "LET ME SEE MY LITTLE BROTHER, LET ME F*CKING SEE HIM!" Frank roared, having to be held back by ten guys though he was still making headway.


    Tears streamed down his face as he gazed at the operating room, catching a glimpse of Eddy, only for his knees to give way.


    "EDDY!" Frank collapsed to his knees, the weight of two assailants bearing down on his back.


    Despite the physical strain, it was the heart-wrenching screams escaping his lips that echoed the loudest, reverberating through the hospital.


    "He''s just a kid." Frank collapsed to the ground, but none of the men dared to risk Edward''s surgery to calm his anger.


    *Sniff*


    "He''s just a kid."


    Despite their own pain and anguish, they knew that family came first as Ricky, seeing Frank, the usually invincible man with his trademark confident smile, breaking down, felt a surge of realization.


    Edward and Rocco meant a lot to him, but they meant even more to others and it was a stark reminder of the bonds between brothers and the depth of loss felt by all.


    "Slick." Lucky walked over and took his son into a hug while patting his back.


    "You ok?" Lucky asked, separating and looking him dead in the eye but Ricky was still enshrouded by a haunting silence.


    "We''ll talk about it later, don''t worry." Lucky understood Ricky''s desires and tried to calm him down for the moment, but he knew it wouldn''t hold Ricky back for long.


    "I already sent Meyer to the Jewish mob as we speak." Lucky patted Ricky''s shoulder though he could tell that it wasn''t enough to pacify him.


    "I know you, I know what you''re thinking but right now, revenge can wait." Lucky urged Ricky, knowing his next words would seal the deal.


    "For Eddy."


    Hours passed in the waiting room until the light flickered off and a doctor walked out as the Lucaino family stood up.


    "Doc, how is he?!?!?!" Frank rushed to the Doctor who showed an apprehensive look.


    "He''s going to pull through but-"


    "But?" Frank interrupted after seeing how apprehensive the Doctor was when talking.


    "He''ll never walk again."


    *Thump*


    "Oh god." Frank fell to his knees, his fist banging on the floor as he let out roars of grievance.


    "I''LL KILL WHOEVER DID THIS TO MY BABY BROTHER, MARK MY WORDS I''LL MAKE WISH YOU''D NEVER BEEN BORN, NEVER F*CKING BORN YA HEAR ME!"


    Meanwhile In The Jewish Mob''s headquarters,


    *BAM*


    "Pep, tell me it isn''t true, tell me your guys didn''t kill Rocco and Edward!" Meyer slammed his fist on the table, while Pep stood silently on the other side of the desk.


    "Ain''t it funny how you''re already taking their side, WE''RE YOUR PEOPLE NOT THEM MEYER!" Pep stood up, his tone escalating into a full-blown shout.


    "Pep don''t say things l like that, if someone thinks you did it then-"


    "THEN WHAT? THEN YOUR LUCIANO ''FAMILY'' WILL COME AND KILL ME!" Pep laughed incredulously as Meyer''s expression slowly started morphing into a ugly one.


    "Just because they''re my family doesn''t mean I forgot where I came from, forgot my roots." Meyer knocked on the desk, turning around as he understood Pep''s underlining answer.


    "YEAH LEAVE, DO WHAT YOU ALWAYS DO WHEN YOUR PEOPLE ARE IN NEED, LEAVE!" Pep screeched, his hair disheveled as Meyer stopped at the doorway while stopping at the doorway.


    "Today I would''ve had your back, but tomorrow I''ll come for your head." Meyer''s face showed no remorse as Pep''s hysterical laugh roared out.


    "YOU THINK I''M SCARED, DO YOU EVEN KNOW THE POWER I HOLD NOW-MEYER, DON''T YOU WALK AWAY FROM ME, MEYER!"


    Meyer continued to walk away, closing his eyes with a shred of warmth, before opening them to reveal cold, hollow eyes that knew only one thing.


    ''This is war.''

 Chapter 30: Flaky By Nature

    Chapter 30: Flaky By Nature


    1 week later,


    *Beep*


    *Beep*


    *Beep*


    *Beep*


    A mechanical beeping echoed throughout the room, notifying Ricky of Edward''s heartbeat.


    He gazed at Edward with hollow eyes, seeing his body hooked up to countless machines currently keeping him alive.


    "Dammit Eddy." Ricky dropped his head into his hands before leaning back in his chair.


    "Aye Slick, I got it from here." Frank suddenly said from the side, rubbing his eyes after finally getting at least two hours of sleep.


    Both Frank and Ricky had been taking turns watching over Edward, hoping he would awaken from his comatose slumber, only to be let down night after sleepless night.


    "But I-"


    "Today''s Rocco funeral service and I think as his close friend, you need to be there." Frank interrupted Ricky''s words as he shut his mouth tightly, nodding his head in understanding while walking out of the room.


    "Here." Frank suddenly put out a dry cleaned suit, smiling as Ricky raised a brow.


    "Italian?"


    "Is there any other option?" Frank laughed out loud, a foreign sound in this building filled only with sorrow.


    Ricky walked out of the hospital minutes later, wearing the black suit Frank had picked out for him.


    Ricky saw a familiar car waiting out front, as if it were a part of the formality that came with this occasion.


    "Get in." Lucky rolled down the window briefly to say those words, then soundlessly rolled it back up.


    Getting in, Ricky found Lucky in mourning attire and instead of receiving a reprimand for his sloppy appearance, Ricky was handed a pair of sunglasses.


    "You look like sh*t." Lucky grunted as Ricky let out another heavy sigh, fully aware of the reasoning.


    For the entire week, Ricky had been in the hospital, alternating shifts with Frank.


    It was the first time something like this had ever happened to him, and he didn''t quite know how to handle it.


    In his previous life, his hospital visits were limited to near-overdoses or getting his stomach pumped.


    He didn''t have anyone close enough to call a friend, as he usually kept his distance from everyone, or ruined any friendship he had by using them as part-time lenders when his loan shark was busy.


    Funerals had always been for people unrelated to Ricky, events he used to sneak into just to pick up girls.


    Ricky also never had any close friends that lasted more than a year, so Rocco and Edward were sort of singularities or new experiences in this second life of his.


    "Is it noticeable?" Ricky asked, but got his answer when he saw Lucky''s expression.


    "So how is he?" Lucky asked and Ricky leaned back in grief.


    "The doc says he can wake up any day now, though he''s been as still as a rock." Ricky informed Lucky who tightly gripped his cane, his expression unreasonable.


    "I see." Lucky muttered as a dead silence permeated in the car as time slowly passed under this awkward atmosphere.


    "What about the people who did this?" Ricky asked with clear anger flashing through his pupils however Lucky bit his lip.


    "Pops?" Ricky asked with clear unease, watching Lucky visibly turn to the side to avoid his gaze.


    "We haven''t been able to find the bastard who did it." Lucky informed Ricky who started to laugh as if it was the funniest thing he''d heard in a while.


    "Wait, you''re serious." Ricky then realized that Lucky wasn''t joking as he became gobsmacked.


    "WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU DON''T KNOW, IT WAS THE JEWISH MAFIA-" Ricky yelled, Lucky holding up his hand then rubbing his forehead.


    "Yeah, but we''re being attacked on all ends the second we step into Manhattan to sniff out the trail." Lucky sighed, informing Ricky of the situation that had been plaguing him for the last week.


    "I can''t send anymore guys blind in there, anytime I do they never report back." Lucky revealed, Ricky having an ugly frown.


    "What about the cops, you have so many pigs on your payroll-" Ricky asked Lucky who aggrievedly rubbed his forehead.


    "On top of those f*cking jews, there''s a new suit in the picture who''s picked up where the buried Albert left off." Lucky clicked his tongue at the confrontations he''s already had with that suit, his face livid in anger by even mentioning his name.


    "Who is he to get you so rattled up like this." Ricky asked, seeing the visibly distraught Lucky who gripped his cane tighter.


    "Guy goes by Thomas E. Dewey."


    *FLASHBACK*


    6 days ago,


    "The usual Tony." Lucky asked, walking into the bar as his men started sitting at the nearby tables.


    However instead of following their lead, Lucky walked and started to sit at the bar before realizing there was already someone sitting there.


    The man simply drank his beverage without making eye contact with Lucky, while Tony set a glass in front of him.


    "Tough day?"The man next to Lucky suddenly asked, just as Lucky was about to reach for his glass.


    "Something like that." Lucky sighed, downing the glass in one fell swoop before handing the glass back to Tony.


    "I''m drowning myself due to a friend''s passing, what about you?" The man uplifted himself before walking over to the seat next to Lucky.


    His men immediately started standing up but Lucky held up his hand singaling them to slowly start sitting back down.


    "Something like that." Lucky raised an eyebrow as the man sat next to him without any fear and tipped his hat up to look right into his eyes.


    "Thomas." Thomas held out his hand and Lucky looked at him, but eventually shook the outstretched greeting.


    "Lucky." Lucky showed an amused smile as another glass was placed in front of him.


    "So what''s got you so down Lucky?" Thomas asked though Lucky let out a small chuckle.


    "Isn''t it customary for the person asking to bear themselves first." Lucky joked but surprisingly, Thomas showed an agreeing nod.


    "Well, if you don''t mind lending me an ear then that''d be great." Thomas asked Lucky as he gave him the go ahead.


    "My childhood friend recently died, suicide." Thomas gripped his glass as he almost choked on his own words as Lucky nodded along.


    "Couldn''t win the fight with his own demons, that''s tough." Lucky patted Thomas back before taking another sip of his drink.


    "That''s what I keep hearing from everyone, their apologies. But do you want to know what Albert told me before he died?" Thomas immediately dropped the pleasantries as he gazed with a cold expression at Lucky who slowly stopped drinking.


    "He told me, whatever I do, to believe him when he says he''d never kill himself." Thomas'' eyes started to strain as he gazed at Lucky who slowly placed his glass back on the bar.


    "It seems to me he was a very troubled person." Lucky slowly started to squint his own eyes as Thomas laughed while turning his head to look forward.


    "Yeah, he always had the habit of getting in trouble with the big fishes." Thomas laughs then contorted in a mournful way.


    "Y''know when we were kids, there was this bully who always got away with beating the crap out of us." Thomas showed a reminiscent face as Lucky stare was dead set on this mystery man named Thomas.


    "I mean, everyday he''d just beat us black and blue, and the adults-........well they just ignored our troubles." Thomas shook his head as he slowly let go of his glass.


    "Do you want to know what we did in the end?" Thomas slowly turned to Lucky and asked as he had all of his men now surrounding him.


    "Did you bite your tongue and fall in line like a good dog?" Lucky asked with a smile, making Thomas laugh out loud.


    "That bully wished we did, no, in the end we hired a thug to beat him up for three whole dollars." Thomas held up three fingers as Lucky raised an eyebrow.


    "Can you believe it? It took only three measly dollars in order to stop our constant suffering." Thomas showed an ecstatic smile while shaking his head.


    "Originally, Albert didn''t want to have someone else fight our battles but I was different." Thomas reached into his coat pocket as he started shuffling something around.


    "Cause unlike Albert, I realized that only a giant could fight another giant." Thomas then set his badge on the counter along with three dollars.


    "Is this a warning-"


    "A warning stipulates that I''d give you the option to surrender." Thomas looked Lucky right in the eyes as the latter didn''t shy away from his glare.


    "I came here to look you in the eyes and tell you that now matter what you do, where you run, that I''m going to take you down." Thomas then stood up but before someone could put their hands on him, Lucky stopped them.


    In the reflection, Lucky turned around to see men watching them outside the door as he started laughing.


    "Do you really think that you take me on?" Lucky asked with an amused smile though Thomas shook his head.


    "No, no I do not." Thomas laughed while walking right through the gangsters without a shred of fear towards the door.


    "But that''s what the government is for." Thomas walked towards the door as Lucky rolled his eyes.


    "You think I ain''t above your government? You''re just another corny suit issuing dry words" Lucky joked as his men started laughing but Thomas simply smirked before turning back.


    "Maybe, but haven''t you heard the saying ''The bigger they are the harder they fall''." Thomas walked out of the door as his men started walking with him.


    "See you when you fall, Lucky."


    *FLASHBACK END*


    "That punk has been jamming up a quarter of our operations ever since he''s come here." Lucky sneered as Ricky remained unfazed, showing no sign of worry or fear.


    Ricky wholly believed in Lucky''s ability to stop this threat since he''d never known anyone to outsmart his pops.


    "Then how do we go about dealing with the Jewish mob?" Ricky asked Lucky, the latter bursting out into laughter.


    "WE aren''t going to do anything, I will handle it-" Lucky shook his head at Ricky''s bold words, shaking his head only to receive a livid expression.


    "Are you f*cking kidding me?" Ricky asked out, spreading his arms as if Lucky had offended him on a deeper level.


    "Do I look like some comedian to you-" Lucky sought to ease this situation with a joke, but Ricky wasn''t in the mood to laugh.


    "Dammit pops!" Ricky yelled, clearly angry at Lucky''s treatment of him.


    "You were the one that said it was time to bring me into the fold, I''m here and I''m hungry, and you''re distancing me again!" Ricky complained, Lucky scoffing at his words.


    "Oh I''m sorry Slick, I''m sorry that you can''t do whatever you want when you want this time." Lucky rolled his eyes, knowing that his son only was a member of the family when he wanted something out of it or it was convenient for him.


    "Whatever I want? WHATEVER I WANT!" Ricky yelled in disbelief, unable to take Lucky''s words seriously.


    "You told me, looked me in the eyes and said you''d handle it, right?" Ricky asked, Lucky nodding at his words since he was currently ''handling'' it.


    "So I did as you asked, I waited in the wings like YOU said and what have you done in this past week, huh?" Ricky asked Lucky, the latter frowning at his disrespectful tone but decided against any measures since his kid was grieving.


    "It ain''t that cut and dry-"


    "NOTHING, YOU''VE FOUND NOTHING-"


    *SLAP*


    Ricky''s rageful outburst was met with a slap from Lucky, his head jerking to the side before he slowly turned back to face him.


    "Don''t you dare downplay my efforts to help you, don''t you f*cking dare!" Lucky yelled as it was his turn to reveal the truth to him.


    "You wanna know the truth, well, the truth is I''ve sent thirteen guys down to Manhattan and had all of them shipped back in coffins with their necks ripped out!" Lucky yelled, revealing the absolute truth to Ricky.


    "I''ve had to go to their families, I''ve had to tell their mother, their fathers, and their extended family that they ain''t ever coming back, BUT YOU WANT TO BE THE ONLY PERSON WHO LOSES SOMEONE!" Lucky''s words made Ricky retract his anger and look away.


    "You think I ain''t ever lost someone, had to go to my friends funeral?" Lucky asked, poking Ricky with his cane.


    "I watched my family in Sicily BURN and you want to tell me how unfair the world is, well you''re right, it''s not fair." Lucky then pointed at Ricky with welling emotions in his eyes but forced himself to calm down.


    "There''s some sick f*ck out there in Manhattan, ripping people''s necks, and I''m not gonna send you in there-"


    "Pops, I can literally make force fields with my mind-"


    "And what if they can rip out people''s necks with their mind, huh?!" Lucky gestured to Ricky, knowing that it was fully possible.


    "You prance around like you''re indestructible, but news flash Slick, you''re only human." Lucky revealed the shocking truth to Ricky.


    "Listen when I say that you ain''t going near Manhattan." Lucky pointed at Ricky who was baffled at his words.


    "What-"


    "This ain''t me asking you as your father, but an order from your boss." Lucky boldly flaunted his seniority as Ricky was in disbelief.


    "Boss, we''re here." The driver interrupted Ricky''s baffled expression, bringing their conversation to a halt as they both prepared to face the somber occasion.


    "Pops-"


    "This conversation is over, don''t make this about you since this entire funeral is for Rocco." Lucky didn''t care to hear Ricky, stepping out of the car as Ricky quickly followed.


    Ricky was caught off guard by the scene before him: a sea of black-clad mourners.


    Grief-stricken expressions marked the faces of everyone attending the ceremony and amid the crowd, a familiar figure caught Ricky''s eye''s, Maria.


    "Ricky?" Maria asked hopefully only to confirm her suspicions before rushing over to him.


    Leaping into his embrace, Ricky grabbed hold of this lifeline and unconsciously didn''t let go for dear life as he held her tightly in his arms.


    "I''m so sorry for your loss Ricky." Maria grabbed his cheeks and turned his face towards hers, ensuring he could see her expression behind the sunglasses.


    Noticing the sunglasses, Maria reached up as Ricky let her pull off the sunglasses as her heart only weeped further.


    "Oh Ricky." Maria''s heart broke when she saw the bags under his eyes as she caressed his cheek.


    "How is he-"


    "Can we not talk about it right now?" Ricky asked, desperately wanting to avoid the subject of Edward, and Maria understood.


    Maria didn''t let go but instead wrapped her arm around Ricky''s as they made their way to their seats.


    Ricky''s gaze shifted to Rocco''s mother, who sat with tear-streaked cheeks as Rocco''s two younger siblings tried to comfort her, but her grief was overwhelming since no parent deserves to see their child die in their lifetime.


    Everyone found their seats, and Ricky took one in the front row, staring at the coffin with a portrait of his friend, who had been smiling only a week ago.


    "We greet the living to celebrate the dead- '''' The priest''s words faded into a distant ringing that swirled around his eyes as a wave of guilt washed over Ricky, numbing his senses.


    Time seemed to blur as the ceremony progressed, with notable individuals offering their thoughts and memories.


    His gaze remained fixed on the closed casket before him, his mind filled with regret and sorrow until he received a nudge from the side.


    "Ricky." Maria suddenly jarred him to his senses, and he realized everyone was looking at him as he wore a confused expression.


    *Ahem*


    "Young child, being a close friend of the departed, would you care to say something about the young Rocco?" The priest gestured to Ricky, who nodded and stood up, slipping out of Maria''s grasp.


    Ricky approached the podium without a prepared speech, and truthfully, he wouldn''t have written one even if he had remembered in advance.


    *Ahem*


    "Uh hello-..........to many I''m known as Slick or Ricky but to Rocco, I was known only as a friend." Ricky hesitated for a long time before he found the right words.


    "To be honest, when we first met I nor Rocco cared in the least for each other." Ricky let out a sad laugh as some snickers joined in.


    However, as he gazed at the funeral, another scene flickered before his eyes, layering over the current events like a haunting mirage.


    "At first I didn''t think much of him, he''d also give me slack for literally everything and I''d pretend he didn''t exist in return but in time-.....in time he started to warm up to me." Ricky rubbed his eyes, choking on his words while running his hands through his hair due to the sudden stress.


    "At first it was laughing at his jokes until eventually I actively sought him out so that we could hang out." Ricky leaned on the podium as the guilt started eating up at him.


    Ricky''s breath quickened, an awful feeling he''d buried deep within his subconscious starting to bubble up as he loosened his tie.


    "Then he became like a brother to me-I can''t do this." Ricky shook his head, the guilt had finally eaten the last bit of courage he had when he made eye contact with Rocco''s mother.


    "I-I''m sorry." Ricky apologized to Rocco''s mother, leaving the podium as a mass storm of whispers started to erupt.


    "Slick!" Lucky immediately stood up but Ricky already started jogging towards the car before breaking out into a full sprint towards it.


    "DAMMIT RICKY, YOU GET YOUR ASS BACK UP TO THAT PODIUM AND TALK ABOUT HOW MUCH ROCCO MEANT TO YOU-"


    "My Rocco!" Rocco''s mother threw caution to the wind as she rushed towards Rocco''s coffin before hugging it tightly.


    "MY BABY IS DEAD~" Rocco''s mother screeched in a sobbing tone as Rocco''s little siblings tried to comfort her.


    The funeral erupted into grief-riddled chaos as Ricky ran away from his problems, leaving it all behind.


    Ricky shook his head as he got into the car and started it, while Lucky hurriedly limped after him.


    "RICKY LUCIANO, DON''T YOU DARE-F*CK!" Lucky cursed as the car started to drive off, frustrated that instead of facing his problems, Ricky chose to run away from them.


    Gripping the wheel tightly, Ricky gritted his teeth as old habits die hard and for Ricky, he''d come to know they''re alive.


    Ricky had believed he''d outgrown his flaky nature with this new life of his, but it seemed he''d overestimated himself as his breaths quickened, escalating into a full-blown panic attack.


    Frantically, he opened the glove compartment, rummaging around until he found one of his hidden flasks.


    Immediately, he began to drown his feelings, finding it easier to avoid them instead of confronting them.


    ''Pops says I ain''t strong enough, fine, I''ll get stronger!'' Ricky roared as actual determination started to blossom in his heart for once, needing to psychtrack himself.


    ''I''ll get so f*cking strong that I''ll never have to feel this sh*tty and helpless again.''

 Chapter 31: A Questionable Way To Go About Gaining Strength

    Chapter 31: A Questionable Way To Go About Gaining Strength


    *BAM*


    The doors of the Cotton Club were kicked in, making everyone in the area stand on edge.


    Everyone residing in this burrow knew how turbulent Harlem had become since the Luciano family took over and were prepared for anything at this point.


    Instinctively, everyone reached under the table, including the bartender, who let out a relieved sigh when he realized there was no immediate threat upon recognizing the figure.


    "Someone give me a bottle of whatever." Ricky didn''t care for the anxious expressions and ordered, plopping down onto the chair next to the two old black men.


    Ricky had eventually learned the names of these two old souls which were Otis and Rufus, the drunkards of his cotton club.


    "You scared us there, Slick!" Otis slapped Ricky''s back while Rufus patted his forehead with his handkerchief.


    "Seriously Slick, you could''ve knocked." Rufus gestured only for both the old souls to break out in laughter at the irony of his words.


    "Here''s your usual Slick." The bartender placed a simple old fashioned whiskey with bitters, sugar, and a twist of citrus rind.


    Downing in one full breath, the two old men were surprised while gazing at each other since Ricky always made a joke at this time.


    ''Say something.'' Otis mouthed with his lips but Rufus shook his head in an aggressive manner after understanding.


    ''No way, you do it-''


    "Slick, are you alright there?" The bartender glared at the two of them, gazing at his new boss who tapped his drink while the bartender went to refill his drink.


    "Buddy of mine, he-" Ricky tried to tell them only for the words to be stuck in his throat as the three of them immediately understood without him needing to finish.


    "Sh*t." Otis and Rufus both said in unison, patting Ricky''s back while seeing how his expression was on the verge of crumbling.


    "Death is a hell of a b*tch."


    "Hell of a b*tch."


    They both shook their heads, having lived long enough to witness the deaths of not only those around them but also those close to them.


    "But listen here Slick, you could deal with your problems, but you can do all that tomorrow." Otis suddenly gave questionable advice to the impressionable Ricky while Rufus nodded along.


    "That old bag of bones there is right, instead of wallowing, why don''t you celebrate his life." Rufus patted his shoulder as Ricky downed his newly poured Old Fashioned, then grabbed Otis''s straight-up whiskey and downed it as well.


    "You''re right, I''ll put off getting stronger for a little bit and loosen up!" Ricky easily folded under their words, the two of them nodded before realizing what he said.


    "Stronger, what is this white boy talking about-"


    "Shhhhhh Otis, let him have this one."


    2 hours later,


    Arriving at the Cotton Club with his trumpet, Booker adjusted his freshly pressed suit while studying his reflection in the mirror.


    "Today''s the day, Booker. Today''s the day you prove you belong headlining at the Cotton Club." Booker encouraged himself, taking a deep breath before donning a confident smile and picking up his trusty old trumpet.


    "Puahahahahaha!" Laughter echoed behind him, and Booker turned to see the famed ''Mills Brothers,'' also headliners at the club.


    They were all black men hailing from Mississippi, their blues performances captivating audiences and establishing them as up-and-comers in the area.


    "Well, well, look who we have here, brothers. The rising star himself!" Samuel Jenkings, their lead trumpet player with a thin pencil mustache, remarked, halting in front of Booker with a smirk.


    "Hi, I''m Booker Rhodes-"


    "Brother, we know who you are." Samuel interrupted, patting Booker on the shoulder while the others chuckled.


    "Everyone here knows you''re the owner''s pet cat, but hey, good on you." Melvin chimed in, offering his own brand of encouragement as Booker frowned.


    "The boss''s pet?" Booker shifted uncomfortably as Samuel shrugged, strolling over to a nearby couch and flopping down.


    "You can play, no doubt about that, but don''t kid yourself since you''re only on that stage cause the white man put you up there. You didn''t really earn it like we did." Samuel said nonchalantly, flashing a wry smile.


    "You mean Slick-"


    *Snap*


    *Snap*


    "I told you, I knew that white man''s got some fancy name!" Melvin interjected sharply with the snaps of his finger, as Samuel sighed and pulled out a dollar.


    "Anyways, good luck out there boy." Samuel saluted him while Melvin scoffed at his friend''s words.


    "It won''t be hard after we got the crowd roaring like dogs-or should I say, cats in heat." Melvin looked at Booker who immediately avoided his eyes while looking to the side while the others started hollering.


    Rubbing his shoulder, he walked over to the side of the stage where the crowds were mingling and gazed out the curtain.


    "I ain''t sveyn drwunk~" Ricky pushed Otis off of him, holding the glass high then pouring it onto his chest, completely missing his mouth.


    "Woah there buddy, let''s stop here-"


    *BURRRRRRRRRRP*


    "I gwet it, ysherur asgnsits me too~" Ricky laughed, stretching out his hands as Rufus sighed from the side.


    "Kiddo it''s not that-"


    "Nsho no, I geotsts it, I get''s it~" Ricky held up his hands before falling to his knees.


    "Arrest me, guilty for grieving!" Ricky yelled at the two who facepalmed while Booker sighed from the side.


    "LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, GIVE IT UP TO OUR NEWEST HEADLINER BOOKER RHODES!" The announcement suddenly mentioned, pointing to the side as Booker Rhodes had the spotlight shone down onto his nervous body.


    The crowd let out roaring applause, wanting to hear the performance that got this rookie onto the stage so quickly as Booker Rhodes walked out onto the stage.


    Adjusting his collar, he gazed back at their members who were looking at him with curiosity as he dabbed his forehead.


    "Play off my two, alright?" Booker asked while the other members looked at each other, but shrugged and gave him the nod.


    "B-Booker, hey I KNOW BOOKER!" Ricky drunkenly pointed at Booker, waving at him before falling onto the table.


    Booker let out a nervous chuckle, adjusting his collar once more while the crowd looked at Ricky''s scene.


    Gulping nervously, Booker gazed out at the sea of faces before him, his heart pounding against his ribcage.


    The stage lights cast a warm, amber glow over the crowd, their expectant eyes fixed on him.


    Each face blurred into a melting pot of anticipation, their murmurs blending into a distant hum.


    Despite years of practice, a wave of stage fright washed over him, freezing him in place as his fingers trembled slightly as he clutched his trumpet, the weight of expectation heavy on his shoulders.


    This was the Cotton Club, the pinnacle of jazz in Harlem, where legends were made and broken.


    The spotlight felt like a spotlight, magnifying every doubt and insecurity that had ever welled up within Booker.


    ''I-I can''t-''


    "YEESUS F*CKING CHRIST BOOKER, PLAY THE DAMN TRUMPET!" Ricky yelled in a drunken slur at Booker who flinched but instinctively clutched his trumpet tight.


    In that moment, time seemed to stand still as he took a steadying breath, reminding himself of the countless hours spent perfecting his craft, the passion that fueled his music.


    With renewed resolve, Booker straightened his posture, his gaze steadying as the crowd intently awaited, their energy palpable.


    He closed his eyes briefly, gathering his inner resolve and when he opened them again, his gaze met the expectant faces of the audience with newfound determination.


    This was his moment, his opportunity to shine among the legends of the jazz world while taking in a deep breath while filling his lungs to his peak.


    Booker''s trumpet blared suddenly, its notes cutting through the air with precision and soul.


    All attention in the room that hadn''t been staring at him shifted over to his figure in that long note, drawn by the magnetic pull of his music.


    He was vigorous, preaching out blues as each note he played was infused with the emotion of years spent honing his craft, pouring his heart into every melody.


    The crowd, initially restless with anticipation, now swayed and tapped their feet in sync with the rhythm.


    The bandmates joined in on his two which Booker wailed into, Booker''s nerves dissolved as he immersed himself in the music, his fingers moving effortlessly across the valves of his trumpet.


    As he played, Booker''s confidence grew with each passing moment while his eyes scanned the room, connecting with individuals who nodded in appreciation or smiled with delight.


    This was more than a performance but a conversation, a dialogue between artist and audience.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky laughed, applauding at Booker''s playing before falling over from the sway of his music.


    Booker finished his playing soon after and when he did, the magnitude of the applause was something that even the most innocent would be captivated by.


    Bowing, he walked to the side to see some of the Mills Brothers staring at him with questionable glances but instead of giving in to any provocation, he tipped his hat.


    "S-Slick where are you going!" A shout occurred while Booker came from the side to see Ricky stumbling out the door.


    "I''m trying to feel the edge!" Ricky yelled back with confusing words, before Booker bit his lip but chased after him only to see a shocking sight.


    Finding a coat hanger somehow, Ricky was trying to jack a nearby car which made Booker shocked.


    "S-Slick, what are you-"


    *Burp*


    "Booker, hey man, good performance earlier~" Ricky, able to form coherent sentences, complimented in a drunken tone while continuing to jack the car.


    "Hey do me a favor, look out for cops~" Ricky then turned back to the car before jerking his hand to the side as the door unlocked.


    "I-Isn''t that illegal?" Booker gulped, asking Ricky who shook his head in denial.


    "Only if we get caught~'''' Ricky hiccuped, reaching under and hardwiring the car with the skills taught to him by Lucky.


    "WE-"


    *VROOOOOOM*


    Ricky started to car, laughing hysterically before closing the door and rolling down the window.


    "You coming or?" Ricky asked, taking out a flask he swiped from Otis as Booker shook his head.


    "No way-"


    "Suit yourself." Ricky shrugged, skirting off into the distance without any regard for traffic laws.


    Swerving left and right, it wasn''t known if he was intentionally hitting mail boxes but after the third one it seemed to be a common occurrence.


    *CRASH*


    The car quickly crashed into a narrow alleyway moments later, bricks tumbling onto the hood as Ricky pushed open the door and stumbled out.


    *BLERGH*


    Ricky vomited onto the pavement gagging twice more before an insane amount of liquid shot onto the ground below him.


    "Oh god~" Ricky wiped his mouth with his coat sleeve, gazing up at the homeless junkies staring at him with freight and confusion.


    "H-Hey, give me your drugs~" Ricky gestured, wobbling up to his feet as the junkies weirdly looked at each other.


    "Do you know where you are-"


    *BAM*


    Ricky suddenly kicked the homeless man across the face who was about to reach for his knife while pointing with crazy eyes at the other homeless man.


    "GIVE ME YOUR F*CKING DRUGS!" Ricky yelled, the homeless men turning back to see the dead end of the alley before reaching into their coat pockets.


    Bags of drugs were thrown at Ricky''s feet as he sifted through them, throwing away the weed and heroin until he made his way to the good stuff.


    "Oh cocaine, how I''ve missed you~" Ricky let out a relieved sigh, eagerly unzipping the bag and inhaling the potent aroma of the white powder.


    *SNIFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF*


    "WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Ricky yelled out, shaking his head before the scenes around him slowly started to morph.


    "Maybe I should take another bump, what do you all think?" Ricky, with white powder on his nose, rubbed his teeth as the homeless people looked at each other.


    "S-Sure?" One of the homeless men agreed with a reluctant tone and Ricky nodded, dabbing some of it onto his palm.


    *SNIFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF*


    "What the-" Ricky wobbled in place, his sights becoming hazy after his cross fade set in, the scene before him seemingly mixing into another


    "DAMMIT SLICK GET THE F*CK OFF THE LEDGE OF THE BUILDING!"


    Looking around, swearing he was in the alleyway only seconds ago, looked around to realize he was on the ledge of the building before rubbing his teeth.


    Gazing down, he saw the Harlem residents along with a livid Madame gazing at him as if she would strangle him.


    "Why are you here-wait, why do I have a pair of drums?" Ricky questioned, seeing the pair of drums in his hands only to realize that he was wearing only a single pair of pants and nothing else.


    "WHAT DO YOU MEAN WHY AM I HERE!" Madame screeched at him, Ricky still confused at what was happening.


    Literally 5 minutes ago,


    *BOP*


    "I SWEAR I''LL DO IT, I''LL JUMP UNLESS MADAME COMES DOWN HERE RIGHT NOW!" Ricky yelled to the growing audience of Harlem, banging his drums atop the ledge.


    *BOP*


    Ricky, with white powder all over his face and nothing but a pair of pants, hit a drum while displaying his crazed appearance to all the onlookers,


    "COME OUT MADAME, COME OUT OR I''LL LITERALLY EAT THIS DRUM RIGHT NOW!" Ricky yelled, the onlookers giving him questioning stares and whispering amongst themselves.


    *BOP*


    Present day,


    "You sure?" Ricky asked, scratching his head since he didn''t remember anything while looking up at the sky.


    "Holy sh*t, it''s morning?" Ricky asked, since when he left the club it was around midday meaning he blacked out for the entire night.


    "SLICK, YOU GET YOUR ASS DOWN HERE RIGHT THIS INSTANCE!" Madame demanded, seeing how Ricky looked sensible but the man-child gazed down skeptically.


    "No way, you''re gonna yell at me!" Ricky yelled back down as Madame grabbed her hair from the frustration of this man.


    "YOUR DAMN F*CKING RIGHT I''M GONNA YELL AT YOU, GET YOUR ASS DOWN OFF THAT LEDGE!" Madame yelled, Ricky throwing the drums to the side before patting his pant pockets.


    Raising an eyebrow, Ricky reached into his pocket to take out a pair of his rolled up socks and the bag of half emptied cocaine.


    "R-RICKY DON''T YOU DARE!" Madame yelled, seeing Ricky holding a bag that was clearly drugs as he gazed down at her then at the drugs.


    Ricky contemplated his options, knowing he''d either have to face Madame somewhat sober or find some newfound courage.


    "RICKY I SWEAR-"


    *SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSNNNNNNNNNNNNNNIIIIIIIIIFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF*


    Ricky huffed the bag, the dust flowing into his nose like water downstream as Ricky''s entire body shivered intensely.


    Wobbling backwards off the ledge, Madame looked at Bumpy who understood almost immediately and bolted into the building.


    Rushing up the stairs, his momentum didn''t break for even a second before kicking the roof door open to see Ricky psyching himself up.


    "Come on, COME ON!" Ricky pumped himself up, hitting his head while jumping up and down before Bumpy widened his eyes.


    "SLICK DON''T-"


    However it was too late, Ricky suddenly leaped over to the next building before clutching onto the ledge, hanging off of it by one hand.


    "YEAH, DID YOU SEE THAT!" Ricky yelled out in excitement, turning back to a pale Bumpy whose face was palmed.


    Knowing that he would only cause more trouble if he escaped, Bumpy glanced back at the stairs, imagining a disappointed Madame.


    He steeled his eyes and looked forward, determined to face whatever lay ahead.


    Backing up a little, Bumpy suddenly ran forward as Ricky widened his eyes but pumped his free arm.


    "F*CK YEAH BUMPY, JUMP IT, JUMP IT!" Ricky encouraged his reckless behavior, seeing Bumpy lunge off the ledge but his suit made him inherently slower.


    Missing the ledge by a drastic meter, he was about to fall until he grabbed onto Ricky''s pant leg which barely holstered him in the air.


    "Woah, what are you doing?" Ricky asked, seeing Bumpy barely clinging onto his pant leg.


    "Hey my pants are gonna fall-"


    "P-Pull me up!" Bumpy yelled, gazing down at the ground which seemed so far away from where he was right now.


    "Why are you being so rude, I mean, you''re the one who chased after me?" Ricky asked, wiping his nose as Bumpy anxiously readjusted grip on his leg but started to slide down.


    "S-Slick-"


    "And another thing, you didn''t even ask to hang off of me, you just did it, double rude." Ricky commented, rubbing his teeth while they dangled off the ledge of the building.


    "Because you''ve been running for the last day, coked out of your mind-"


    "Still, whose fault is that-"


    "YOURS?!" Bumpy looked at him speechless at his shamelessness in this scenario.


    "YOU PRANCED AROUND HARLEM WITHOUT ANY CARE FOR YOUR SURROUNDINGS WHILE CRASHING FOUR CARS INTO FOUR DIFFERENT FIRE HYDRANTS!" Bumpy screeched in slight madness.


    "Still-"


    "Listen Slick okay, I''m sorry, I''M SORRY!" Bumpy yelled, feeling his grip slip as his foreheaded started to sweat.


    "SO WILL YOU PLEASE PULL ME UP!" Bumpy pleaded, gazing up at Ricky not even paying attention to him.


    *SNIFF*


    Completely ignoring his pleading remarks, Ricky took another huff from the bag of cocaine, further inducing himself.


    "WOOO!" Ricky yelled, his eyes reddening as everything seemed to be super detailed in this moment.


    "Yeah listen Bumpy, I really want to help you, I swear I do, but my hands are a little full right now." Ricky shook his head to the side, gesturing to the one hand holding the ledge and the other still holding the bag of cocaine.


    "Wh-What!" Bumpy shouted out in disbelief while Ricky shrugged.


    "I mean, I already jumped over to the next building successfully and now I just wanna get outta here so I''m thinking that we should probably split up-" Ricky, without any guilt, essentially asking Bumpy to let go and basically fall to the ground.


    "No, no, no, no, S-Slick your pants, t-there slipping man-" Bumpy could feel his positioning lowering and quickly pleaded.


    "Probably because there''s this rude 200 pound asshole hanging off of them-"


    "185 white boy!" Bumpy yelled out, angered that Ricky actually wanted him to let go.


    "Whatever, listen, just try and aim for that dumpster-" Ricky saw the dumpster below them, trying to give him some advice but Bumpy was delirious.


    "S-Slick let me climb up you-" Bumpy was in denial, gazing up at the selfish coke riddled man with a pleading gaze


    "Bumpy."


    "No, no please Slick don''t-"


    "Bumpy, buddy, this is happening alright. I can''t hold the ledge, my cocaine, and you at the same time so someone''s got to fall." Ricky winked at Bumpy, sliding down with Ricky''s pants as his eyes widened in horror.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Bumpy screamed, holding Ricky''s pants while falling towards the ground.


    *CRASH*


    "Holy sh*t, dead center Bumpy!" Ricky yelled out in praise as Bumpy looked as if he flew through the air and crashed into the dumpster below.


    "Bumpy?"


    "Bumpy!"


    "BUMPY!"


    "Ohhhhhhhhhh~" Bumpy let out a tired groan as Ricky nodded his head, helpling himself onto the ledged with only a pair of boxers.


    "Don''t worry Bumpy, I''ll come down to rescue after I take another huff from this bag!" Ricky yelled down, seeing the clearly hurt Bumpy groaning in the dumpster.


    *SNIFFFFFF*


    Ricky huffed the last of the cocaine, shaking his head at the thrill rushing into his nose and invigorating him with energy.


    "Wait, what was I going to do again?"


    Ricky asked, out rubbing his teeth only to open his eyes to see the surroundings around him change into a suit shop.


    "Pardon me Mr. Luciano, but you came in for some clothes." A man gestured from the side, handing him a decent suit as Ricky looked around.


    ''I could''ve sworn it was something else-ah, whatever.'' Ricky, unable to remember that he was about to go check on Bumpy, shrugged away the thoughts.


    Grabbing the suit without paying, Ricky strolled out of the door while wiping his eyes and when they opened back up, he was in a bar.


    "Woah." Ricky whispered, gazing around at the completely different surroundings before loosening up.


    ''This works out in my favor I guess.'' Ricky looked around until a sleazy smile morphed on his face.


    ''Well, let''s get stronger shall we?'' Ricky thought, gazing around at all the women mingling as he checked his breath against his palm.


    Smiling, he strolled over to the bar while rubbing his teeth, leaning against the counter next to a woman nursing her drink.


    "Hey beautiful, care to listen to a once in a lifetime offer?" Ricky suddenly propped next to her as she flinched, before raising an eyebrow and a smile.


    "Oh yeah and what''s that?" The girl asked, seeing Ricky''s cute face and deciding to hear him out.


    Ricky leaned in to whisper something in her ear, making her smile at first only for her expression to freeze, and her face slowly contorted into an ugly frown.


    *SLAP*


    "Ouch." Ricky messaged his jaw, with the clear handprint on the right side of his face while watching her storm off.


    Looking to the side, Ricky saw a girl talking to her friend as he politely tapped on her shoulder, turning to him and seeing his sleazy smile.


    "Seven words gorgeous ''you, me, and a dirty bathroom stall'' what do you say-"


    *Splash*


    Ricky couldn''t even finish as the drink splashed onto his face, laughing while wiping it off and opening his eyes.


    "So, is that a no-"


    *SLAP*


    Ricky was then slapped on the other side of his cheek which turned him to the amused bartender awaiting his order.


    "Yeah, I''ll have an old fashioned without that sissy garnish." Ricky asked, handing him a couple dollars as the bartender nodded.


    *Sigh*


    Ricky tried to regain himself, the mourning of his friend throwing him off his game and he needed to readjust everything.


    *Drip*


    His nose started to bleed but he didn''t even flinch, grabbing a nearby napkin only to have a hand grab his arm.


    *DING*


    [Mission Received: Everlean Carter]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: C


    Description: Recently found out her fiance was cheating on her and decided to go out on the town with her two best friends. All sense of responsibility is gone tonight and you so happened to stumble across the perfect opportunity.


    Objective: All it takes is one time in order to get stuck with a kiddo, impregnate this lucky or unlucky girl.


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Everlean Once:


    Choose: 50 gacha or Everlean Skills


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Cum inside of Everlean while making out with another girl(Incomplete):


    Reward: 20,000 IP


    F*ck Everlean until she passes out(Incomplete):


    Reward: Rare Skill Coupon


    Cum inside Everlean''s Pussy three times(Incomplete):


    Reward: +4 Agility


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ''Yerrrrp.''


    Ricky instinctively gazed to the side and saw a woman with chocolate skin as her hazel eyes, filled with worry, locked onto his affliction.


    She wore a black sundress that accentuated her captivating presence, drawing the eyes of anyone who looked her way.


    Her smile seemed to light up the entire room, exuding warmth and charm that drew people to her effortlessly.


    Ricky found himself unable to look away for more than a second, mesmerized by the radiant energy she projected.


    Her features were striking: high cheekbones, full lips, and an elegant grace that made her stand out in any crowd.


    Her curly hair framed her face perfectly, adding to the allure that made her impossible to ignore.


    His eyes grazed against the mission description until he saw that her fiance cheated on her and immediately adjusted himself.


    ''Come on Ricky, get in the zone, get in the zone!''


    "Yeah I''m-" Ricky was about to say something until he realized that it would be better to take a different approach.


    *SIGH*


    "Is something the matter?" Everlean, noticing his bleeding nose, wanted to offer him a handkerchief, but she hesitated when she saw his distraught expression.


    Ricky tried to muster a smile but suddenly sighed, covering his face as Everlean looked at him in confusion, puzzled by his abrupt change in demeanor.


    "No, no it''s nothing." Ricky looked at his drink, banking on Everlean to ask why as she immediately took the bait.


    "Why is it, isn''t there no better solace in a random stranger?" Everlean couldn''t help herself as her inherently good nature forced her to ask, joking to lighten up the mood.


    "Actually, recently my girlfriend cheated on me and I''m struggling getting back into the scene." Ricky forcefully let out an anxious laugh, Everlean flinching at their similar circumstances.


    "O-Oh, I see." Everlean grabbed her chest, feeling her heart ache at the thought of her own significant other cheating on her a week ago.


    "I''m Ricky." Ricky held out his hand and Everlean shook it.


    "Everlean." Everlean responded only for Ricky to kiss it which caught her off guard until she laughed.


    "Thanks for taking the time to listen to this lonely soul''s story, I apologize if I was too forthcoming." Ricky used his era''s slang, trying to get pity points from Everlean who looked at her friends but bit her lip.


    "Well, me and my friends are drinking over at the black only section if you''d like to come?" Everlean asked, knowing he probably wouldn''t want to go with her until he suddenly smiled.


    "I''d be delighted to." Ricky smiled warmly, leaning over and asking to take her hand.


    Everlean was surprised, but after seeing this similar soul she decided to grab his hand and lead her over to the friends.


    Walking over to the very edge of the bar, her two friends were situated at the booth before gazing at the oncoming two instead of one.


    "Everlean?" A girl asked, raising an eyebrow of hostility towards Ricky who returned a kind smile back to her.


    "Girls, this is Ricky, his girlfriend recently cheated on him and had a drink thrown in his face." Everlean joked with one of the girl''s laughing but the other still glaring at Ricky, crossing her arms.


    "I''m Mayola, charmed~" Mayola, already on her third drink, friskily held out her hand and Ricky took it with a smile.


    Mayola stood a little taller than Everlean, her presence commanding attention in any room if Everlean wasn''t present, overshadowed by Everlean pure beauty.


    Her curves were very generous and overly-defined, making her silhouette unmissable.


    Her chocolate skin had a natural glow which was a tad darker than Everlean''s, contrasting beautifully with her rich, dark curls that cascaded down her back.


    She had full, sensuous lips and striking hazel eyes that seemed to capture and hold the gaze of anyone who looked her way.


    Her assets were more prominent, adding to her allure and the sense of confidence she exuded.


    Wearing a fitted purple sundress, Mayola''s figure was accentuated perfectly, her body overtaking any other sight and making her the focal point of the room.


    "Azalea." Azalea didn''t even care to extend her hand, showing she had no intentions of shaking his hand.


    Azalea was a beauty, though she was shorter and less curvaceous than Mayola and Everlean.


    Her delicate features and graceful presence made her striking in her own right, yet her beauty was often overshadowed by her current perpetual scowl.


    Her almond-shaped eyes, sharp and intelligent, held a hint of annoyance that contrasted with her otherwise captivating appearance.


    With a slender frame and impeccable posture, Azalea carried herself with a certain elegance, but the furrowed brow and tight lips suggested a frustration that marred her otherwise stunning visage.


    [Mission Received: Mayola Davis]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: C


    Description: Has had dead end after dead end when it came to dating and has recently become fed up with the local cats in the area. She wants to experience a night she''ll never forget until the end of her days


    Objective: Give Mayola that special night in more than one way, if you know what I mean.


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Mayola Once:


    Choose: 50 gacha or Mayola Skills


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Cum inside all three of Mayola''s holes(Incomplete):


    Reward: Rare Weapon Coupon


    ¨C(Secret Mission)Make Mayola organism on each time you came inside her holes(Incomplete):


    ¨CReward: Epic Weapon Coupon


    Have Mayola throw away her pride(Incomplete):


    Reward: +6 Strength


    Fuck Mayola into Submission(Incomplete):


    Reward: +4 Vitality


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    [Do you-


    ''Yes.'' Ricky thought, sitting down at the booth and about to turn over to Everlean only for Azalea to scrunch her brows.


    "So ''Ricky'' how old are you and what do you do for a living?" Azalea immediately pressed, Everlean turning her head with an angry expression.


    "That is incredibly rude Azalea!" Everlean reprimanded, a little disappointed at her sudden integration as the woman immediately looked away in shame.


    "Probably something that gives you such strong muscles~" Mayola let out in a tipsy tone and without shame, stroked his arm.


    "I''m twenty three and yes I know, baby face." Ricky lied, stroking his chin while Everlean along with Mayola laughed.


    "And I work for the truckers union, I sort and organize all paperwork while supervising the mail room." Ricky lied out of his ass though they believed it to be true since it seemed so detailed and on the spot.


    "Wow that''s so cool~" Mayola lied before seeing Ricky look at Everlean which made her slightly frown.


    "I actually have to use the little girl''s room, Everlean?" Mayola scooted out of the booth and gazed at Everlean who was slightly anxious.


    "I don''t'' think-"


    "It''s fine, I''ll keep him company." Azalea smiled towards Everlean who wasn''t at all reassured.


    "Great, come on Everlean." Mayola tugged her towards the side, Ricky waving her goodbye while being dragged towards the girl''s bathroom.


    "Mayola why are you being so aggressive-"


    "Everlean, please, please, please, let me have him!" Mayola immediately begged once they reached the bathroom.


    "What are you even talking about-"


    "Oh come on Everlean, he totally has the hots for you~" Mayola whined, looking at the mirror to the side and pulling out her makeup.


    "He does?" Everlean, the naive and clueless girl of the group, showed a look of surprise which only made Mayola sigh.


    "Yes honey, but can''t you let me have this one!" Mayola continued, Everlean still shocked at the news.


    "I swear, these neighborhood cats have drained the life out of me and I just want one night, one night let loose~" Mayola looked over at Everlean biting her lip since she knew how hard Mayola was having it.


    "And besides, you and Milton just broke up, don''t you want to take it in before making any big decisions?" Mayola turned back to Everlean who rubbed her shoulder, feeling uncomfortable at her bringing up Milton.


    "I guess-"


    "Great!"


    Meanwhile back at the booth,


    "Do you think Everlean is some kind of harlot, one that''s easy for you to manipulate." Azalea suddenly accused Ricky who coughed up his drink before laughing.


    "Woah, where did that come from?" Ricky was taken aback at the sudden accusation, literally sitting in complete silence of the past three minutes.


    Azalea squinted, sitting up and walking over to Ricky with hatred fully glistening within her almond eyes.


    "Well it doesn''t matter since I won''t let Everlean have her heart played with the likes of some white boy." Azalea poked, the system ringing in his head until a carnivorous smile played onto his lips when glancing at the description.


    [Mission Received: Azalea Harris]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: C-


    Description: Azalea is secretly in love with her best friend Everlean, however she''s desperately afraid of this fact and is content with just being her friend. It might be beneficial to seduce Everlean if you want to have three in your bed.


    Objective: Take advantage of Azalea Harris'' love and knock her up for it.


    Reward: 10,000


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once:


    Choose: 50 Gacha or Azalea Harris Skills


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnante Azliee with her first ever time(Completed):


    Reward: Rare Equipment Coupon


    Get Azilee to beg you to come inside her(Incomplete):


    Reward: Rare/Uncommon skill Coupon


    Coerce Azilee to confess her love for Everlean after creampieing her(Incomplete):


    Reward: Rare Weapon Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ''HAHAHAHAHAHAHAH, YES!'' Ricky couldn''t believe what he was reading before gazing back at her scrunching face.


    "You''re in love with Everlean, aren''t you?"


    *THUMP*


    Azalea''s breath went cold, her heart thumped out her chest at the words uttered from Ricky''s smug face which caught her completely off guard.


    "N-N-No I-" Azalea''s face immediately became guilty, Ricky didn''t even try to ease into it and bluntly spoke out her most horrifying secret.


    "Oh come on, it''s obvious and now that you showed such a guilty expression-"Ricky laughed, thinking she might be cute if she didn''t look at him as if she wanted to cut out his eyeballs.


    "You simply caught me off guard, do you think I''m some sort of fag?!" Azalea pretended, though very poorly, about her preferences.


    Ricky could''ve waited or used it to bag her at a later date, but Ricky had another plan while wiping his nose.


    "Fine then let''s see what Everlean has to say-"


    "NO!" Azalea screamed, some eyes turning towards them until she coughed and regained herself.


    "P-Please." Azalea gritted her teeth, grabbing hold of his shirt.


    "I-I''ll do anything so please don''t tell her." Azalea closed her eyes, ready to throw away her dignity if needed.


    "Anything?" Ricky asked, slinking his hands down her waist and leaning in but Azalea simply looked up.


    "Anything." Azalea confirmed making his sleazy smile extend to its limits.


    "How about we help each other out?" Ricky asked, Azalea immediately shaking her head.


    "I won''t-"


    "What if I let you have a turn with Everlean?" Ricky whispered in a seductive tone as Azalea shook violently in desire.


    "I know you''ve thought about being on top of her while she moaned at your will." Ricky continued to sprout the possibility into her ear which made Azalea freeze.


    "What do you mean?" Azalea shamelessly asked, gazing in front of her without meeting his eyes as he chuckled.


    "I mean, let''s get incredibly wasted and have a fun time." Ricky suggested, clearly uninterested if she wasn''t willing, as forcing someone wasn''t his style.


    "And of course, I was kidding when I said that I''d tell Everlean, in fact, I''m wholly confident that I can bag her without your help." Ricky showed his true face to Azalea who clenched her fists together.


    "And if I tell her-"


    "Azalea, darling, we both know you''re too selfish to let go of Everlean since if you truly loved her, then you would''ve let her go." Ricky revealed his opinion since one-sided love was like this.


    People often claim they want the best for their true love, but in reality, they''re merely poisoning themselves with that excuse, staying by their side under the guise of ''protection''.


    The truth is, they are torturing themselves with a fantasy of unreciprocated affection that will never be fulfilled.


    "What would you do?" Azalea selfishness leaked out and Ricky nodded while holding up a couple fingers.


    "First, let me have a taste of Everlean once or twice, probably three times." Ricky explained while Azalea looked down until he moved her face towards him.


    "Then after I''m finished, you can taste her all you want, if I get to have a little fun with you that is." Ricky whispered, Azalea however didn''t look in disgust but blushed at the thought of feeling all over Everlean''s naked body.


    "But if you come, you have to get Mayola with you." Ricky then made the deal almost unreasonable.


    "I-"


    "Azalea this isn''t a negotiation, this is what it takes to get what you want." Ricky didn''t care to hear her rebuttal and simply stated what he wanted.


    "Think about it, however once I bag Everlean your time will be up." Ricky scooted away after seeing the girls exit the bathroom.


    "Oh and if you tell her-"


    "You''ll reveal my secret." Azalea stared at him, her expression unreadable when the two of them arrived.


    "Who''s ready to party~" Mayola danced over to Ricky who smiled, seeing Everlean standing over by the side and avoiding his gaze.


    "Alright but first let''s go get some drinks, Mayola." Azalea all of a sudden took Mayola''s invitation, taking her hand and drawing her over to the dance floor.


    Mayola and Everlean were shocked at this initiative since she never did anything unless Everlean begged her too.


    Speechless at her friend''s behavior, Azalea promptly dragged her off to the bar while the stunned Everlean watched in shock.


    "My lady, would you perhaps grant me the honor of a dance?" Ricky stood up and caught the shocked Everlean off guard.


    "I-I-"


    "Great!" Ricky answered for her, taking her hand then shimming with her to the dance floor.


    The jazz music blared while the confused and still taken aback Everlean had unknowingly drifted over to the dance floor only to start laughing at Ricky''s dance moves.


    Ricky was a lot of things, but he wasn''t at all a good dancer and it showed at how hysterical Everlean became with every boogey in his step.


    The thing that made it work however is Ricky''s uncaring nature, it wasn''t embarrassing for him since he was too shameless to even care.


    Adorning his charming smile, Everlean could only relent from her straight out laughter into a dance while deciding to help him out.


    "Oh Ricky, that is not how you dance to the blues." Everlean shook her head only for Ricky''s smile to turn sleazy.


    "Alright then, show me." Ricky laid on the charm and Everlean laughed, nodding while coming in closer.


    "Here, to dance the charlton you have to focus on your feet." Everlean assisted, guiding his sway into proper moves.


    *PFFT*


    Everlean laughed out once again, seeing how hopeless he was but Ricky simply wouldn''t stop his awful dancing until Azalea brought over the drinks.


    "Bottoms up!" Ricky swiped one of the shots, the three surprised before Mayola and Everlean laughed while following his lead.


    "Here." Azalea handed another to Mayola who hesitated but after seeing Ricky''s smile on Everlean, she swiped it.


    "Whew!" Everlean, downing her shot and shouted, only for Ricky to shimmy over to her and to start dancing as she started doing her thing.


    One shot, two shots, three shots, four their bodies danced on the cold, hard floor.


    Five shots, six shots, seven shots, eight, bodies grinded together, careless of their next day''s fate.


    Wasted, they partied through the night until the only ones on the dance floor were Ricky and Everlean.


    Azalea had purposely fed Mayola more drinks which she was currently throwing up in the nearby restroom.


    The band stopped playing a half an hour ago but the two of Ricky and Everlean were slow dancing the night away.


    Everlean looked up at the smiling Ricky, clear passion in her eyes before finally relenting to Ricky''s sway and leaning in.


    Ricky didn''t at all refuse her and took her into a passionate kiss, his hands that were laying idle at her waist slowly starting to slide down.


    ''Wet to the touch.''


    "Oh Ricky~" Everlean let out, pulling back before Ricky swarmed her neck as she moaned.


    "Spend the night with me Everlean~" Ricky whispered seductively into her ear as she wrapped her arms around his neck.


    Ever since her fiance cheated on her, Everlean had been heartbroken and although it wouldn''t sew the wound on her heart, she could tell Ricky could ease the pain.


    "Ok~" Everlean whispered, letting Ricky guide her out as Azalea walked out of the restroom with Mayola in tow.


    "Where is Evelean-"


    *Gasp*


    Mayola was shocked to see Ricky walking out of the bar with Everlean since despite being next to each other the entire night, it still pained her deeply that Everlean had gone against her word.


    *Sniff*


    "Do you want to follow them?" Azalea asked, aware that Mayola''s presence was part of the deal, calculating that if Mayola joined them, she could use the opportunity to throw her to the wolf that was Ricky while Azalea spent more time with Everlean.


    "But she already got him-" Mayola whined, drunkenly annoyed at having Everlean steal what was supposed to be her all over again.


    "Are you simply going to give up and let Everlean take whatever she wants from you like she always does?" Azalea knew what buttons to press and upon pressing them, they lit a fire in her heart with a renewed vigor.


    *Sniff*


    "Yeah you''re right, let''s go." Mayola drunkenly pulled Azalea after them while the latter started without an emotionless stare.


    Azalea was a cold and heartless person who cared about nothing except her light that was Everlean, but the problem was that her feelings would be forever unreciprocated.


    Azalea thought she could live her life and be satisfied by being Everlean''s closest friend, but she was wrong.


    After hearing Ricky''s deal she wanted to refuse but started to think about how no matter what she did, Everlean was the type of person people flocked to.


    Everlean''s fiance was trash, but she was a woman that men vied for and Azalea had seen firsthand the suitors that came to her daily.


    Eventually someone would swoop in and steal all her time from Everlean, this was when she started thinking more closely at their deal.


    Azalea thought that if she could have one moment, a single moment she could internalize and hold within her heart with Everlean forever and only then would she be satisfied with letting go.


    That was her excuse, and Azalea didn''t care if it was incredibly poor so when she caught Ricky''s side-eye, her resolve only strengthened.


    Ricky walked into a nearby hotel that allowed Everlean, throwing down a hundred onto the desk and demanding the hotel key while leaving a whisper to the attendant.


    Relenting, Mayola and Azalea strode into the hotel and when Mayola walked past towards a nearby elevator, Azalea side-eyed the attendant who nodded at her.


    "Of course Everlean gets a man who can give her a penthouse suite, this is so like her!" Mayola jealousy seethed, walking into the next elevator while Azalea silently walked in.


    The elevator doors opened and Azalea''s sight was privy to Ricky sticking his tongue down her precious Everlean''s throat.


    "Oh geez~" Mayola was a little hottened up while seeing how boldly Ricky played with Everlean''s body.


    Opening the door into the hotel, Ricky purposely left open while undoing Evelrean''s dress on their stumble towards the bed.


    "One look wouldn''t hurt, right?" Azalea asked Mayola who unconsciously bobbed her head.


    "Y-Yeah, one peep wouldn''t hurt." Mayola drew closer, biting her lips while Azalea walked behind.


    "Of course, it''s only one peep."


    Author''s Note: Not gonna lie, I couldn''t muster up good pictures so if anyone want''s to chip in and donate some pics to the comments, I''ll shout you out in the next Chapter for thanks. Also this upcoming foursome will probably be a one off thing since like I said in the intro letter, it''s just a one off power up and won''t happen with future harem members.

 Chapter 32: F Is For Foursome (R18)

    Chapter 32: F Is For Foursome (R18)


    Warning: Slight yuri stuff, not gonna lie I don''t think I''ll do something like this again so enjoy if your into it and if not, then it''s probably just a one-time thing so don''t whine about it.


    Author''s Note: I also picked out the pictures and the respective person who gave their input is next to it.


    (Desire_Incarnate) Everlean


    (James_Piter) Azalea


    (James_Piter) Mayola


    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Azalea closed the door behind her and held Mayola, who froze in place, anticipating the unfolding moments of Ricky and Everlean''s entanglement.


    Ripping off her dress, Ricky threw it to the side. He slid his fingers down, softly caressing her wet undergarments while Everlean''s legs gave out, causing her to collapse onto the bed.


    Mayola stood frozen, her hands covering her shocked mouth, unable to say anything as she anticipated what she was about to witness.


    "Oh Ricky~" Everlean moaned out, losing herself in his touch while swaying her body against the rippling tides of the ocean that were Ricky''s fingers.


    Azalea tolerated it, for her moment, watching Ricky slide Everlean''s undergarments down as her eyes locked onto Everlean''s beautiful pussy wetted to its very core.


    Her breath hastened, seeing the large lips slowly seeping out a glistening fluid, tricking down while slowly caressed by Ricky''s aggressive fingers.


    Her nails dug into her palms, but her eyes remained locked onto the only thing she had ever wanted as Ricky positioned himself, lining up his cock with those beautiful, pressed folds.


    "AH~" Everlean moaned as Ricky pushed her apart slowly, starting to fill her insides completely.


    Leaning down, Everlean wrapped her hands around his back, digging her pretty nails into his flesh to anchor herself to the moment.


    Thrusting forward, Everlean''s head collapsed back onto the bed, letting out a sensual moan as Azalea closed her eyes and started touching herself to that sound.


    Registering and cherishing Everlean''s sensual voice, Mayola on the other hand watched intently in battered breaths at Ricky''s ravaging movements.


    Ricky''s drunken form was unapologetic, slamming his pent-up emotions into Everlean, who lay beneath him with no choice but to take it all.


    *Thump*


    "Ah~"


    *Thump*


    "Ah~"


    The bed frame rocked into the walls with every sway of Ricky''s hips, the sensual wails of Everlean following afterwards at the intense feeling coursing through her being.


    Her body shook under his force, her subtle breasts swaying haphazardly with each aggressive thrust.


    Everlean unconsciously turned her gaze downward, her eyes reflecting the sight of her most sacred part.


    Through a drunken haze, she watched as her lower lips morphed and stretched to accommodate his size.


    Seeing her insides being completely ravished first-hand, yet she found herself unable to look away.


    Watching as he slowly pulled his throbbing cock from her creaming pussy, only to shove it back in, her mind seemed to short-circuit.


    The hardwiring within her brain struggled to keep up with the overwhelming sensations as Ricky relentlessly stimulated her pleasure receptors.


    "Ah~" Everlean wanted to say something, anything, but all she could manage were increasingly sloppy wet moans that slowly made her surrender completely, as if realizing she was made for this very moment.


    Teeth gritted and drool leaking, her eyes darted around as she struggled to handle the overwhelming pleasure slamming into her.


    The sensations that should have given her pain at every thrust turned into an intoxicating addiction that drove her mind into a frenzy.


    Tears of pure joy started to constantly lubricate their intertwined body, her walls slathering Ricky''s cock in her cream as if inciting even more of his chaotic whims.


    Inside her being, Ricky didn''t care for any walls, pushing past them as he reveled in the twitching tightness that threatened to swallow his cock whole.


    Everlean''s body was like a black hole, hungrily pulling him in as if trying to absorb everything he had to give.


    "Ah-" Everlean tried to moan out her desire for more only for Ricky''s waist to slam into her pussy, robbing her of her voice.


    Opening her mouth, no words came from her wet, plump lips as her body instead shook violently.


    An unexpected climax hit her, overwhelming her senses and causing pleasure to surge throughout her insides uncontrollably, making her unable to comprehend the intense sensation as it exploded out from within her.


    Pulsing and twitching, her body''s natural response only seemed to drive Ricky to more violent movements, as he gained an even deeper foothold within her.


    "F*cking hell~" Ricky grunted, slamming himself deep into Everlean and laughing at the sudden tightness, gritting his teeth with a sleazy smile.


    Meanwhile Everlean''s entire brain seemed to shut off as her eyes twitched madly upwards, overwhelmed by the intense rush surging through her insides.


    "Mhhhhhhhh~" Everlean''s head fell against the bed as she cried out, only to shut her mouth and hum in response, gnawing on her own teeth.


    The relentless pulsing and twisting of frenzied pleasure was so overwhelming that it left her unable to open her mouth, her entire body seized by the chaotic, primal rush.


    Leaning into Everlean, his hands traced up her shaking body, caressing her sloppy swaying breasts until they reached her own hands.


    Pressing them firmly down, his hips suddenly smacked into her waist, his cock delving into her unexplored depths that only made her breathless.


    Her actions were forcefully cut off once more, any response to his gestures had been overwhelmed by the continuous thrusting feeling of Ricky, entering and reaching depths that she never thought possible.


    Ricky toyed with her, trailing soft kisses along her neck and collarbone, only to follow with forceful, imposing thrusts that drove his cock deeper into her being.


    Everything felt hazy for Everlean as she stared up at the blurry ceiling, her body rocking back and forth under Ricky.


    Her legs swayed uncontrollably from either side of Ricky, wobbling as if too weak to properly control them, leaving them sprawled out in disarray.


    Whether it was her sadness that longed for another''s touch or the immense amounts of alcohol that heightened the lustful side of herself, she couldn''t tell.


    But what anchored her to the moment was the relentless swelling built from Ricky''s every thrust, grounding her amidst the fog while holding onto his warm body.


    "You''re so beautiful Everlean." Ricky whispered in her ear, kissing it tenderly before his movements betrayed that delicate action by increasing the pace.


    "AH~" Everlean finally regained her breath, lustfully breathing out her passion while wrapping herself around Ricky.


    Digging her nails even further into his back, she clawed and scratched while her legs wrapped around his waist.


    Everlean tucked her face into the crevasse of Ricky''s neck, holding him tight amidst the flurry of his strokes.


    They were more impactful, more rough, and elicited more of a reaction from Everlean who ramped up the pace of her moans.


    "I-I feel something, I-" Everlean tried to moan out only for Ricky to simply kiss her, thrusting his cock deeper into her welcoming pussy with even more force.


    "It''s ok, I''m here~" Ricky''s words were akin to the devil''s whisper, soothing her into a tempting understanding smile while foolishly trusting him.


    Taking her into another passionate and emotional kiss, his next coming thrusts were anything but that warm and understanding.


    Ricky''s heavy balls slapped against her ass as his cock plunged furiously into her spewing folds as if he were punishing her under his own thrill.


    Deeper and deeper, Ricky seemed to gain a little more traction with every movement as he felt that swelling within his meaty balls.


    Ricky could feel it, twisting and ramming his length into Everlean''s tight, innocent core, with an utmost intensity as she began to cream around him, enveloping him in a thick, white coating, smothering him in her love.


    "!" Everlean''s eyes fluttered open in the middle of their kiss, screeching out a climax of a moan from within Ricky''s mouth.


    Everlean''s eyes rolled back as she felt Ricky release a hot, thick load of cum into her creaming core, the sensation almost destroying her senses.


    Everlean body shuddered uncontrollably, her insides clamping down into a vice grip around Ricky''s member that constantly throbbed under it, spurting more of his own creamy white liquid that lathered her pink walls in white and painting her pink walls white.


    The warmth surged through her deepest regions, radiating and spreading like a liquid fire that enveloped every inch of her being.


    "Ha~" Azalea gently came from the side at Everlean''s muffled moan, shivering at the image of her being the one to bring such pleasure to Everlean.


    "Mayola this is your chance, if it continues anymore like this then Everlean will have Ricky all to herself for the entire night." Azalea placed her hand, still tingling from her own touch moments before, onto Mayola''s locked gaze.


    "But they-" Mayola breathlessly whispered, her eyes fixed unwaveringly on Everlean''s pulsing, creaming core, which oozed Ricky''s milky white cum in thick, shimmering streams.


    "It''s ok, he won''t turn you away~" Azalea whispered in a tempted tone, knowing from his sleazy appearance that Ricky was the type to get sidetracked easily and would eventually start f*cking Mayola.


    Then once Ricky was devouring Mayola, Azalea would have Everlean all to herself and make a moment that would last a lifetime.


    Pushing Mayola, she stuttered forward while seeing Ricky hover above Everlean who was limply sprawled on the bed.


    Huffing out deep breaths, glazed eyed while reeling in from this tsunami of an organism that she creamed out along with the assist of Ricky dumping a warm load to coddle her already hard climax.


    "Mayola, come here~" Ricky slicked his hair back, looking to the side to see Mayola breathlessly standing at the side and beckoning her over.


    Nodding forward, Mayola aimlessly walked over to him until she fell to his clutches, sealing her fate as he pulled her into his lustful entanglement.


    "Ah~" Everlean suddenly moaned out, feeling Ricky restart his thrust but in a slow manner that let her properly relish in the aftermath of her last organism along with the new thrills of this pleasure sway.


    Closing her eyes and playing with her own breasts, Everlean didn''t even care to notice Ricky sticking his tongue down Mayola''s throat while once again thrusting his cock into her cum stuffed pussy.


    Reaching his hand under Mayola''s skirt, he slid his already drenched fingers littered with Everlean''s nectar into her already drenched pussy.


    "Ha~" Mayola moaned while interlocked with Ricky''s lips, melting into his touch while he thrusted his hungry cock further into Everlean.


    Azalea had arrived at the side, hovering over Everlean and watching in a breathless manner at this moment.


    Sliding off her clothes, Azalea knew that she wouldn''t have any better opportunity to have her memory and crawled onto the bed.


    Ricky watched side-eyed Azalea, still kissing Mayola but used his right hand that was holding Everlean''s mothering bearing hips and slowly placed it on Azalea''s ass.


    She didn''t care, accepting her end of the deal while her eyes were dead set on the moaning Everlean below her without a care in the world.


    Ricky beckoned his fingers inside Mayola with his left and kneaded Azalea''s ass with his right as she set it down onto Everlean''s swaying stomach.


    "Everlean~" Azalea whispered, lowering her head down and taking the love of her life into a passionate kiss.


    Confusing Azalea for Ricky, she wrapped her arms around Azalea''s neck and continued to close her eyes.


    Azalea was excited but slow, taking the lead of their tongues while her pussy wetted and dripped in excitement onto Everlean''s stomach.


    "I-I''m cumming, Ricky~" Mayola whined, biting her lips while resting her head on his shoulder.


    "Then cum for me~" Ricky whispered back in a chuckle, immensely turned on as he held three girls at the will of his touch.


    "Ah~" Mayola and Everlean both came at the same time, Ricky kissing Mayola''s forehead while increasing his pace with Everlean.


    "Everlean~" Azalea continued to moan out, kissing Everlean all over from her mouth to her neck while playing with her breasts.


    Ricky undid Mayola''s dress, kissing her aggressively while continuing to ready her pussy, increasing the pace of his hips and slamming them down into the excited Everlean.


    "I¨CI-Ah~" Everlean tried to moan out but continued to be halted by the rushing tide of Ricky''s cock slamming into her port.


    "I''m here Everlean, I''m here." Azalea breathlessly moaned out as well, covering her with her love while biting her lip.


    Ricky stuck his tongue down Mayola''s throat, tightly clasped Azalea''s perky ass, and slammed his cock back into the deepest depths of Everlean''s pulsing wet creamy pussy.


    ''The things I do for strength.'' Ricky lamented as if it was a tragedy but was smiling ear to ear.


    Ricky, feeling that familiar build up, violently thrusted down his cock into Everlean''s pussy once more while preparing to give her another serving of motherhood.


    *CLAP*


    "Ah~"


    *CLAP*


    "Ah~"


    The sound of Ricky''s hips slamming into Everlean echoed through the room, mingling with the moans of the three girls.


    Ricky couldn''t hold out any longer, putting the entirety of his strength into his next thrust as he plunged his everything into Everlean


    "AH~" All the girl''s moaned out, syncing up their climaxes due to Ricky'' influence as he grunted out as well.


    Everlean arched her back up, Azalea hugged down onto her, Mayola clutched tightly onto him, and Ricky dumped a big load of his baby better into the vibrating Everlean.


    Filling Everlean up to the brim and then some, she breathlessly slumped back to the bed and closed her eyes before Azalea took her into another sloppy kiss.


    "R-Ricky, I''m ready~" Mayola whispered seductively but Ricky simply pecked her lips with a smile.


    "I want to save you for last, so I can have all of you to myself, all at once." Ricky''s whisper made Mayola shake uncontrollably, his mere tone sending shivers up her spine while Ricky pulled out his cock drenched in Everlean''s existence.


    His cum splurged from Everlean''s lips, the pressure forcing it out as if a dam had suddenly burst.


    It sprawled onto the bed before Ricky who was wiping his cock not on Everlean for thirds, but onto Azalea''s untouched and hairless pressed lips.


    Clamped together, Ricky was struggling to push them apart with his own tip while smirking heavily at this oncoming feeling.


    Azalea shook, knowing what she promised this white devil and actually raised her ass while wrapping her arms around Everlean.


    Resting her head in the crevice of Everlean''s huffing figure, she prepared herself as Ricky slowly began to push his entire length and girth inside her, those tight lips being forcefully parted under his overbearing size.


    Azalea''s figure was more slim and thin compared to the two busty women that were Everlean and Mayola.


    They could properly take the size of Ricky''s with some slight tension yet relative ease, but the figure that was Azalea wasn''t exactly built to handle Ricky.


    However, Ricky continued onwards anyways, pushing his cock into the trembling figure of Azalea while taking in the sight while Mayola laid drunken sloppy hickies all over his neck.


    Azalea didn''t complain however, her eyes teary as she hugged Everlean tightly while continuing to take in all of Ricky''s size.


    Azalea whispered passionately into her ear, telling Everlean how much she loved her and would do anything for her, even giving her first time to this horrid man if it meant she could have a cherished memory of their time together.


    *Clap*


    *Hic*


    "Oh yeah~" Ricky chuckled out a grunt, slamming the rest of his being into her tight, virgin hold, while she slowly started to seep out small cries.


    He was unable to grasp just how tight Azalea truly was until he was fully inside her, since even without movement, he could feel her walls stretched to their absolute limit, filled to the very brim.


    The trembling of her small figure was only the icing on the cake, that was the sheer tightness that wholly swallowed him then tried to crush him whole.


    Smirking, he started loosening up his future sex doll in which Mayola moaned at having her pussy wanting the attention she so desired.


    Starting the sway of his hips, Ricky slightly took out his cock stained with Azalea''s innocence, before pushing it back into the sinkhole that was her being.


    "Ooooooo~" Azalea let out a gasp, her mouth forming an ''O'' as Ricky pushed his entire length into her, the tip managing to kiss the entrance of her womb on the very first thrust.


    "AH~"


    Azalea froze at what she had just uttered, rigidly looking back at Ricky who had a sleazy smile when they had both suddenly come to the realization that she might not entirely swing one way.


    Horrified, Azalea tried to say something but Ricky was faster while pounding his cock once again into her tight little pussy.


    Clenching her teeth, Azalea couldn''t understand why she felt more pleasure with a man than she ever did while thinking about Everlean.


    "Ah~" Azalea unconsciously closed her eyes and moaned out like some street whore.


    Tears actually began to stream down Azalea''s face as she felt a deep sense of betrayal from her own heart, overwhelmed by the pleasure of another while still longing for Everlean.


    "I swear, I love only you Everlean~" Alziee lowered her head back down into Everelan''s embrace, reassuring Everlean but in reality, she was simply reassuring herself of this fact.


    "Hahahahahaha!" Ricky began to laugh at Azalea, his mocking laughter echoing through the room.


    It was clear how he reveled in her refusal to acknowledge the undeniable pleasure she felt with every thrust of his hips against her perky ass.


    "Ricky, pay more attention to me~" Mayola whined from the side, Ricky turning over to her in a smile while relenting to this whining girl.


    "Of course baby, anything for you." Ricky whispered the words she wanted to hear, taking Mayola passionately into the kiss she desired above all else.


    Ricky started ramping up his pace, ramping his motion into Azalea, who clung tightly to Everlean, her body trembling as she took the entirety of his length.


    Each thrust drove her deeper into a pleasure induced insanity, Azalea tried to fend off the lust yet it started to tickle out of her as she let out muffled moans against Everlean''s shoulder.


    Everlean, sensing Azalea''s breath hitch and the tension in her embrace, gently stroked her hair, offering a soothing touch to calm her turmoil.


    Everlean was in and out at this point, but this unconscious act encouraged Azalea amid the intensity of her despair.


    "Oh Everlean~" Azalea cried out, undiscerning if it was from her love for Everlean or her primal urge that was constantly being slammed into her ass.


    Ricky''s pace quickened, his movements growing more urgent as he taunted Azalea with every thrust, his rhythm becoming a relentless, mocking rhythm.


    Azalea squeezed down on him, her asshole twitching at the strain of constantly taking the entirety of his cock, each thrust sending ripples of pleasure through them both but Ricky selfishly prioritized his own.


    The room was alive with the raw clash of their bodies furiously colliding, Ricky''s hips repeatedly slamming into Azalea''s perky ass while hitting a spot that drove her nerves wild in pleasure.


    Her tight, mushy, and twitching insides enveloping his entire length with each forceful thrust, and soon, she began to cream around him, her body finally succumbing to the relentless pleasure.


    Lathering his cock in her body''s involuntary submission, Azalea''s pussy had betrayed her completely, her reactions only spurring Ricky on to drive deeper, her surrender fueling his relentless thrusts into her body.


    "A-" Azalea was about to moan but stubbornly buried her head into Everlean''s body, masking her sounds with Everlean''s scent as she imagined it was Everlean making her feel like this.


    Those very muffled moans grew louder, blending with Mayola''s soft whimpers for Ricky to touch her even more.


    Alziee''s body felt as if it was on fire, every nerve ending sounding out with her primal need for the pleasure that came from a man''s cock.


    It was immensely confusing for Azalea, trying to ground herself from this overwhelming tide of pleasure within Everlean''s embrace but finding it more increasingly troubling.


    Ramping his cock forward into Azalea with more ferocity, she felt him delve even further while repeatedly kissing her womb.


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    Azalea couldn''t hold in any more, feeling something sprouting within her as she had finally lost herself to Ricky''s hold.


    With one final, powerful thrust, Ricky pushed them both over the edge while leaning his entire being into her slim figure.


    "AH!" Azalea cried out, her climax crashing forcefully through her like a wave, while Ricky followed moments later, filling her completely.


    Breaking through the gate that had stumped him for so long, his twitching tip forcefully pried her most cherish and deepest palace with his invading cock.


    Almost immediately cum plowed into her womb, sowing the seeds of her future child that swirling around her enclosed space.


    Azalea''s head jerked up, eyes rolled back while she clenched her teeth hard at the radiating feeling scorching from her tight room that would hold their future child.


    For a prolonged time they stayed connected, their breaths heavy, the room filled with the aftermath of their intense encounter.


    Collapsing onto Everlean, Azalea was drained of all strength from her climax.


    She looked up at the blurred figure of Everlean, her hand trembling as she stroked her chin while sniffling softly. Ricky, however, could only laugh, reveling in the chaos he had wrought.


    "One more thing and she''s yours, clean it up." Ricky said behind her, giving one more condition as Azalea slowly turned around.


    "And then we''re done." Azalea huffed out and glared, staggering over to Ricky while grabbing his cock with a small stream of his cum already flowing down it.


    "Of course." Ricky nodded, grabbing her head and messaging her cheek but she only focused on this moment.


    Sticking out her tongue, it immediately retreated in disgust until Ricky grabbed the back of her head and slammed his cock down her throat, her eyes almost instantaneously becoming teary.


    "Breath." Ricky instructed Azalea instead of letting her pull away, she hatefully gazed up at him but did as she was told and started breathing through her nose.


    As she followed his command, a mix of defiance and submission flickered in her eyes, but started to let her head be guided by Ricky''s hand.


    Trying not to gag at his cock slithering up and down her throat, its slimy and salty texture stung her tongue.


    As she struggled to suppress her gag reflex, she focused on the sensations overwhelming her.


    Doing what she did best and imagined it was Everlean pussy, his hands gently guiding her head, the salty tang of his skin mingling with the scent of arousal in the air.


    Each slow slide down his long cock started to elicit a mix of discomfort and a strange, electric pleasure.


    She started to feel exposed, vulnerable, yet oddly empowered by the intimacy of this act only to remember who it is she loved one more.


    Her heartbeat quickened, matching the rhythm of his hips and simply wanting to end this experience as he moved with controlled urgency.


    In that moment, she surrendered to the raw, primal connection they had suddenly formed, unconsciously craving more of this discomfort.


    Gripping the back of her head tightly, he intensified his thrusts, forcing her to endure a relentless face-f*ck as she could only surrender to the onslaught.


    The tight and swallowing feeling, repeating all over his cock, made him a little more eager in his attempts while Azalea loosened her throat for him.


    The sensation of her lips and tongue working around his member, her rhythm matching his increasing urgency while swirling and sucking her lips alongside its veiny hold on her throat.


    Azalea''s subtle shifts and slurping sanctions spurred him on, each movement bringing him closer to the edge.


    The sight of her, eyes locked on his before shamefully looking to the side made him fill with a mix of dominance and desire, heightened his arousal.


    "Oh yeah~" Ricky groaned softly, his fingers threading through her short hair while feeling his balls swirl.


    Pulling her head back slightly, instead of serving her stomach with her first serving Ricky had a fun idea.


    Ricky''s cock suddenly throbbed, and Azalea''s eyes widened in shock as a surge of his creamy release flooded her cheeks, catching her completely off guard.


    "Now go share your serving with the love of your life."Ricky grunted as he came in her mouth, his release causing her cheeks to balloon with his thick, hot cum.


    Azalea''s pupils shrunk though when she saw Ricky''s sleazy smile, knowing that this would be what it took to have her time with Everlean.


    Pulling out his cock, Azalea felt a surge of disgust as she held his cum in her mouth yet despite her revulsion, her tongue involuntarily swirled around the salty, sticky texture, betraying her conflicted emotions.


    "Go on." Ricky laughed out towards Azalea, kneading Mayola''s ass who eagerly threw herself at Ricky as he started to give his entire embrace to her which made her more aggressive.


    Ricky watched with a smirk as Azalea leaned down to kiss Everlean, their lips meeting in a tender yet conflicted exchange.


    As she shared her troubles and their intimate connection, she inadvertently passed on his cum from her mouth to Everlean''s.


    *Gulp*


    Everlean, lost in the haze of the moment, unconsciously gulped down his hot serving, her body responding to the unexpected taste.


    Azalea then turned back to Ricky, who watched her intently as he held onto Mayola''s large, full breasts.


    ''Swallow and she''s yours.'' Ricky watched as Azalea, following his silent cue, swallowed the remainder of his cum.


    With a satisfied smirk, he finally turned away, leaving Azalea to deal with the lingering taste and the complexities of their entangled desires.


    Seeing it was finally over, Azalea looked at Everlean with a small smile while caressing her hair with love coursing through her eyes.


    "I promise after today Everlean I''ll let you go, but for today let''s have this memory so that I can cherish it forever."


    Ricky collapsed onto the bed, his weight pressing against Mayola, who welcomed him eagerly as she radiated warmth, embracing him with her entire being as their bodies melted into the sheet''s beneath them.


    "Oh Ricky, take me~" Mayola moaned with fervent desire, her body aching for his touch.


    She spread her legs wide and in a bold move her hands parted her eager lips for him, openly inviting him in with an almost desperate urgency.


    Without hesitation, Ricky plunged his entire length into her, eliciting a hungry grin from Mayola as pleasure washed over her.


    "Finally~" Mayola moaned out, finally tasting his cock before she wrapped all her body around Ricky''s overbearing figure.


    Her legs entwined around his waist, urging him deeper as Ricky melted his entire being into her eager figure while moving together into an aggressive dance of shared desire.


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    Mayola exaggerated her moans, a deliberate performance aimed at stirring envy among the other girls since she had endured listening to countless passionate encounters without being part of any of them.


    Her cries echoed through the room, a mixture of genuine pleasure and playful theatrics, as she reveled in the thought of their reactions which were nonexistent.


    Ricky, caught up in her infectious energy, grinned against her neck, his own amusement growing with each exaggerated gasp that Mayola let out whenever he drove deeper into her insides.


    Gripping onto the bed, Ricky used it as leverage in order to excite more of Mayola''s performance.


    "YES, RIGHT THERE~" Mayola screamed out in a delightful cry for Ricky''s cock while he drove it further into her being.


    Mayola intoxicated the air with her applause for more, completely giving herself to the pleasure that induced her with magnitudes of searing lust she never thought possible before.


    In the midst of their passionate embrace, Ricky''s movements grew more urgent, each thrust driving deep into Mayola, their bodies melding into the rhythmic slapping of their skin.


    The slick heat between her thighs welcomed him eagerly, her walls gripping him with every push and pull.


    Each slide in and out was accompanied by a wet, slick sound that echoed in the room, a testament to their shared arousal, their sloppy, tangled bodies became a vivid display of their intense, wet desire.


    Mayola''s nails dug even further into Ricky''s back, scratching her marks over Everlean''s while tracing the lines of muscle''s already tensing in excitement.


    Her breath hitched with each plunge, her moans blending with his grunts as they lost themselves in the heat of their mutual needs.


    The bed beneath them creaked vigorously, the bedframe slamming into the wall behind it while adding its voice to the symphony of their passion, as they pushed each other closer to the edge of bliss.


    Mayola''s body molded into him, responding to his every touch, every thrust, and her body arched to meet his, the subtle shudders coursing through every inch of her body at every single movement of Ricky.


    Her inner walls clenched around him, urging him deeper as he savored the exquisite pleasure of being completely consumed by her warmth and wetness, feeling the grip of Mayola take hold of his intruding member while seemingly strangling him.


    Ricky''s thrusts became more forceful, each one pushing deeper into Mayola, the onslaught of his thrusts offset by the melding in a sweaty tangle of limbs.


    "I WANT IT RICKY, I WANT YOU~" Mayola screamed out, feeling herself about to go over the edge and yelling for Ricky to meet her halfway.


    He gripped her hips firmly and slammed even harder into her being Mayola''s hands grasped Ricky''s shoulders, her nails digging into his skin with a mix of urgency and pleasure while completely letting herself be consumed under his ravaging body.


    "F*ck~" Ricky grunted, with one last desperate thrust, he buried himself completely inside her.


    "HAAAAAAAAAAAAA~" Mayola screeched, her body trembling as Ricky released his pent-up passion into her womb.


    *GASP*


    Mayola gasped as she felt him pulse within her, his warmth flooding her depths as her pussy clenched down, seemingly milking him dry of every single drop his sweat balls contained.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    They huffed out, their bodies clung to each other, sweat-slicked and trembling from the intensity of their own climaxes.


    "Alright, turn over." Ricky then stood up, flipping her over as she turned onto her stomach.


    Seeing her twitching folds, he pulled out his slick, cream-coated cock as it popped free, his cum gushed outwards, spilling onto the bed almost immediately.


    Grabbing a fistful of her ass, he spread it wide, his gaze locked onto the tight, twitching hole above her ruined folds as he began to line up his cock.


    "Spread open your ass Mayola." Ricky almost commanded but surprisingly, she promptly responded and Ricky was able to line up his cock properly.


    "Ha-AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Mayola let out a breath before letting out a wailing moan, feeling Ricky''s cock plunge into her ass while tearing into it apart to accommodate itself.


    "R-Rick-"


    "I''m glad that I did this with you instead of the others." Ricky smiled at Mayola turning around, realizing that he hadn''t done this with the others.


    "M-Me too~" Mayola put her face within the sheets, bearing it as Ricky chuckled out.


    Still parting his ass for him, Ricky could place his hands anywhere and chose to pin her down by her shoulders.


    Pulling out his cock, Ricky didn''t care for a soft touch and slammed it down into her ass as a muffled moan sounded from Mayola.


    He gripped her shoulders tightly, driving himself deeper with each thrust, the sound of his hips colliding against her juicy ass echoing through the room.


    Mayola''s fingers intently gripped her own ass, her body trying to arch to meet his relentless pace only to be held properly in place.


    With each powerful thrust, Ricky felt her body responding to his every move, her muscles contracting and releasing around him.


    The raw pleasure of their connection heightened his senses, every touch and sound amplifying his desire.


    Seeing her struggle, he leaned forward, his breath hot against her ear as he whispered.


    "You feel incredible." Ricky''s voice was the relief she needed and continued to bear his size.


    Mayola''s moans grew louder, her body trembling beneath him as the intensity built between them.


    Ricky''s hands started playfully roamed over her skin, exploring every curve and dip while his cock dug into her flesh.


    "OOOOOOOOOOOOO~" Mayola sharply raised her head, letting out an oozing moan once Ricky thrust into her ass.


    Smirking, he continuously started to pound that same spot while Mayola''s body shook into violent moans of desperation.


    "Y-Y-Y-Yes r-r-r-right t-t-t-t-there~" Mayola''s stutter was due to pounding of Ricky''s cock, interrupting her words and forcing them to repeat.


    Eyes rolled back, Mayola felt her mind go blank every time he hit her special spot. The strain built up inside her, growing to a seismic intensity that she desperately needed to release.


    He could feel her nearing the edge, her movements becoming more frantic as she actually started pushing her ass back to him like some animal in heat.


    In a final surge of need, Ricky increased his pace, driving into her with relentless force.


    *Clap*


    "F*ck me Ricky~"


    *Clap*


    "Oh Ricky I need it~"


    *CLAP*


    "HAAAAAAAAAA~" Mayola screamed out, her face slamming into the bed while his cock made rammed deep inside her ass.


    Their shared climax approached like a raging storm, unstoppable and consuming. Ricky reached his peak, his release pouring into her as she convulsed around him.


    Filling her ass to its very brim, Ricky nearly collapsed, feeling as if Mayola was draining all his energy with every intense, gripping squeeze.


    Then once the very last ounce dumped into her ass, Ricky fell back while grabbing his face while letting out deep breaths.


    Mayola huffed out breaths, trying to push herself but failing and falling back into the bed.


    Eventually, Mayola found the strength to crawl over to Ricky but once she reached his waist, he placed a hand on her head.


    Confused, Mayola looked up at the tired Ricky who didn''t even mutter out anything but pointed at her face then at his cock.


    Smiling devilishly, she grabbed hold of his sword and started licking it clean amidst maintaining hard eye contact with Ricky.


    "Atta girl," Ricky whispered, his head plopping onto the bed as he knew he could leave it to Mayola, who eagerly licked clean his slickened cock.


    She kissed her way up to the tip before taking his entire length into her mouth, swallowing him whole in one breath.


    Ricky groaned out a chuckle, the sensation of her warm, wet mouth enveloping him sending shivers down his spine.


    Mayola''s tongue danced skillfully around his shaft, her lips creating a tight seal as she moved up and down.


    Her eyes locked onto his, a mischievous glint in her gaze as she worked him with expert precision.


    With each bob of her head, Ricky felt a new surge of pleasure coursing through him. Mayola''s hands gripped his thighs, her nails lightly scratching his skin as she increased her pace.


    Ricky wasn''t going to hide the fact he was slightly blown away at this blowjob and caressed her face with his hand as if encouraging her.


    This evidently worked, as Mayola vigorously slid her head up then plummeted down onto his cock, repeatedly plunging it faster and faster.


    Her movements were relentless, each plunge down his length accompanied by a wet, sloppy, sucking sound that echoed in the room.


    The heat of her mouth enveloped him completely, sending waves of sensation that threatened to overwhelm his senses as with each deep, rhythmic suck, she pushed him further into blissful oblivion.


    "F*cking hell~" Ricky muttered out, feeling the life sucked out of him as his cock throbbed in the depths of her throat.


    Mayola''s lips tightened around him after hearing his words, her tongue swirling and teasing with expert precision.


    She worked him in a fervor with the intention of leaving him breathless, her pace never faltering as she brought him closer to the brink.


    With each downward motion, she took him deeper, the sensation driving him closer to the edge as he could feel his arousal building to its peak.


    Gritting his teeth, his cock throbbed intensely within her mouth as she eagerly hastened to the point of burying her face into his crotch.


    The intensity built with each relentless suck and stroke, driving him closer to the edge of blissful release.


    Ricky''s ball stirred and with one more sloppy suck from Mayola, he spurted out load after load into her gullet as she eagerly devoured his cum.


    *GULP*


    *GULP*


    *GULP*


    Mayola took him in deeply, savoring every drop, her eyes locked on his in a mix of satisfaction and desire.


    "Alright come here." Ricky let out a breath, holding out his arms for his reward as she crawled over and plummeted onto his chest.


    Then with huffed breaths, Ricky slowly dozed off after feeling all his stress f*cked and sucked out of him.


    ''Wish I had a cigarette right about now.''

 Chapter 33: Feeling Lost In The Sauce

    Chapter 33: Feeling Lost In The Sauce


    The next day,


    "Wake yo ass up."


    *Slap*


    "Ugh." Ricky groaned as a hand print appeared on his face as Madame St. Clair stood before him with a disappointed look.


    "God, you look and smell like sh*t." Madame waved her hand while shaking her hand as she threw a pair of pants at him.


    "And through all of that, you still got laid." Madame shook her head while looking at three of her fellow black sisters strung all across a luxury bed with dried cum staining their mouths, pussy, and asses.


    ''At least I know his preference is simply women.'' Madame raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms at the state he left them in.


    "What time is it-'''' Ricky asked, wiping his nose as he had some dried blood residue appear on his hand.


    "Time? Boy, it''s been three days-.......what the f*ck were you on?" Madame let out in exasperation as she ain''t never seen a white boy party as the one before her.


    *DING*


    [Mission Received: Everlean Carter]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: C+


    Description: Recently found out her fiance was cheating on her and decided to go out on the town with her two best friends. All sense of responsibility is gone tonight and you so happened to stumble across the perfect opportunity.


    Objective: All it takes is one time in order to get stuck with a kiddo, impregnate this lucky or unlucky girl.


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Everlean Once:


    Choose: 50 gacha or Everlean Skills


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Cum inside of Everlean while making out with another girl(Complete):


    Reward: 20,000 IP


    F*ck Everlean until she passes out(Complete):


    Reward: Rare Skill Coupon


    Cum inside Everlean''s Pussy three times(Incomplete):


    Reward: +4 Agility


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    Cum inside of Everlean while making out with another girl(Complete):


    Reward: Rare Familiar Coupon


    ???????????????????


    Get Everlean to do a spit take with Azalea(Completed):


    Reward: Rare Skill Coupon


    ???????????????????


    [Mission Received: Mayola Davis]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: C


    Description: Has had dead end after dead end when it came to dating and has recently become fed up with the local cats in the area. She wants to experience a night she''ll never forget until the end of her days


    Objective: Give Mayola that special night in more than one way, if you know what I mean.


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Mayola Once:


    Choose: 50 gacha or Mayola Skills


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Cum inside all three of Mayola''s holes(Complete):


    Reward: Rare Weapon Coupon


    ¨C(Secret Mission)Make Mayola organism on each time you came inside her holes(Complete):


    ¨CReward: Epic Weapon Coupon


    Have Mayola throw away her pride(Complete):


    Reward: +6 Strength


    Fuck Mayola into Submission(Complete):


    Reward: +4 Vitality


    Bonus Missions:


    Cum inside Mayola more than two times(Completed):


    Reward: +2 Stamina


    Get Mayola to swallow your cum(Completed):


    Reward: Common Skill Coupon


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    Make Mayola cum with only your fingers(Complete):


    Reward: +3 Strength


    ???????????????????


    [Mission Received: Azalea Harris]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: C-


    Description: Azalea is secretly in love with her best friend Everlean however she''s desperately afraid of this fact and is content with just being her friend. It might be beneficial to seduce Mayola if you want to have her in your bed.


    Objective: Take advantage of Azalea Harris'' love and knock her up for it.


    Reward: 10,000


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once:


    Choose: 50 Gacha or Azalea Harris


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnante Irene with her first ever time(Completed):


    Reward: Rare Equipment Coupon


    Get Azalea to beg you to come inside her(Incomplete):


    Reward: Rare/Uncommon skill Coupon


    Coerce Azalea to confess her love for Everlean after creampieing her(Incomplete):


    Reward: Rare Weapon Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    Get Azalea to do a spit take with Everlean(Completed):


    Reward: Rare Skill Coupon


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    Have Azalea swallow every drop of her share of the cum from the spit take(Completed):


    Reward: +3 Agility


    ???????????????????


    [Multiple Rewards Available.]


    [Please Redeem Rewards.]


    The notification made Ricky''s eyes widen as he glanced around, taking in the sight of the three beautiful black women surrounding him.


    "We need to go." Ricky, seeing countless responsibilities laying all around him, carefully slipped out before grabbing his clothes.


    Madame shook her head, her expression clearly judgmental as she looked not only at Ricky but also at the three women.


    "Black power my ass." As they left the hotel room, Ricky hurriedly putting on his shoes, Madame turned around to watch him pass by.


    "I need to-"


    "You ain''t going anywhere, your a f*cking mess and if your daddy ain''t gonna knock some sense into you then I''m going to." Madame grabbed Ricky''s collar as he was walking towards the elevator in a sassy tone.


    "Listen, your not my mommy-"


    "Yet here I am, cleaning up all of your sh*t." Madame put a finger in front of him as she moved her head side to side.


    "And don''t you dare raise your tone with me after the stunt you pulled." Madame pushed Ricky while opening the elevator to reveal Bumpy in a neckbrace.


    "Now get in this elevator, we''re going to talk whether you want to or not." Madame demanded, and Ricky looked at her for a moment before sighing and complying with her instructions.


    Like before, Ricky didn''t even remember what he did but it seemed that he owed Madame which is why he followed along, at least for now.


    Madame didn''t talk to Ricky until they reached the car before she suddenly looked at him disapprovingly.


    "Listen, your apart of something bigger-"


    "Can we talk about this later-"


    *SLAP*


    "Oh no, you ain''t interrupting me." Madame put a finger in front of Ricky''s face after slapping him once again but this time on the other cheek.


    "This is bigger than you, than me. We''re making history and your out here sniffing lines of coke off of f*cking bags while sticking your willy into any b*tch who''d spread her legs." Madame lectured Ricky as he showed a horrified look.


    "Don''t tell me I slept with any fat or ugly chicks." Ricky asked while messaging his face in immense regret as Madame''s jaw dropped in shock.


    "Really Slick." Bumpy sighed heavily as it jarred Madame back into reality as she held her purse into the air.


    "WHAT!"


    *SMACK*


    "Ow~"


    "IS!


    *SMACK*


    "Ow!"


    "WRONG!


    *SMACK*


    "OW!"


    "WITH!


    *SMACK*


    "OW, I GET-"


    "YOU!"


    *SMACK*


    "DAMMIT STOP!" Ricky grabbed her purse as Madame was hitting him with it with every word.


    "Jesus Christ Bumpy, we''re screwed." Madame leaned back in her seat while holding her head in immense grief.


    "Agreed." Bumpy immediately responded as Ricky rubbed his back in an effort to make the stinging stop.


    "Can you just calm down?" Ricky asked and Madame scoffed while showing a false smile.


    "Oh I''m sorry Slick, I''m sorry that your friend died and the other is gonna be a cripple." Madame sarcastically mocked him, prompting Ricky to show a deadpan expression.


    "Hey, don''t mock my friends." Ricky''s expression remained serious as Bumpy began to sweat, but Madame simply crossed her arms, observing the scene with a steely gaze.


    "Oh so now they''re your ''friends''? Leaving at the eulogy of your supposed ''friends'' funeral doesn''t seem like something a ''friend'' would do." Madame words hit Ricky right in the stomach as he looked away in shame.


    "God Slick, why don''t you grow the f*ck up." Madame lectured Ricky who shook his head with an ironic smile.


    "Am I not allowed to grieve-"


    "Oh hell no, that wasn''t grieving, that was suppressing." Madame pointed towards him, causing Ricky to immediately fall silent.


    "You need to grow up Slick and be a man." Madame said, and Ricky rolled his eyes, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips.


    "Whatever-"


    "What, you think you''re the only one to have one of your friends murdered?" Madame asked as Ricky looked at a wave of sadness rippling across her eyes.


    "You think that I never had friends who were taken unjustly, you think I never had to go to the morgue to identify a brutally beaten and mangled body?" Madame asked Ricky who looked down as she scoffed.


    "This is how I grieve Madame." Ricky stubbornly let out however it only made her burst out laughing.


    "Well then you better grow the f*ck out of it, be like the rest of us and grieve behind closed doors." Madame pushed Ricky as he swayed with the motion.


    "Your apart of something bigger, your a leader-"


    "Well I didn''t ask for this-"


    "Most don''t." Madame interrupted Ricky, and he promptly closed his mouth.


    "You think I''m tired of being thrown in jail for standing up for my basic human rights? You think I don''t wake up everyday and don''t want to stand up for what I believe in?" Madame asked Ricky who pursued his lips.


    "Then don''t, you don''t owe no one anything." Ricky heartlessly said as Madama let out a sigh while shaking her head at the selfish asshole in front of her.


    "I do it because no one else will." Madame pointed out as Bumpy nodded his head along with her.


    "Anyone can follow Slick, but only a few can rise up to the occasion and lead." Madame opened the car door as they arrived at the graveyard.


    Ricky flinched but soon realized this wasn''t the graveyard where Rocco was buried and slowly, he got out of the car.


    "Where are we-"


    "Just shut up and follow me." Madame beckoned as she walked with Bumpy in toe, Ricky looking around but sighed and followed along.


    Ricky looked around with a raised eyebrow until Madame stopped in front of a gravestone with a smile.


    "This is Bobby Dukes, he was one of the first ever friends I made after I emigrated to America." Madame patted the gravestone as she gazed at the messy appearance of Ricky.


    He hadn''t even buttoned his shirt correctly, leaving it askew along with his pants, which sagged slightly without a belt.


    Ricky didn''t even bother with shoes, opting for just socks on the damp ground, showing he didn''t care about his appearance.


    "He died because he talked back to a white man, the white man and some of his friends dragged him to a random back alley where they beat his head in with a brick." Madame patted the gravestone with a mourning face.


    "Over here, that was Tally Richards." Madame backed up as she patted the next gravestone as Ricky started to frown.


    "She didn''t even do anything and simply walked down a road late at night, but was raped and found dead on the streets the next morning." Madame showed a sad expression before taking a couple steps back to the next grave.


    This repeated and Madame continued down the line of all of her losses while telling their names and how they died to Ricky.


    Madame knew every person buried in these rows, as this was the cemetery she had established for her community.


    No white man had considered the need for a place where her people could mourn which is why this was one of her very first investments.


    She was intimately familiar with every story here; she had spoken with, laughed with, and ultimately laid to rest each of these individuals.


    After the twenty fifth person, Madame stopped and Bumpy handed her a handkerchief as she wiped the corners of her eyes.


    "Everyone losses people Slick, it''s a part of life and although sometimes we don''t want to face the facts, life''s a b*tch." Madame laughed at her last remark as Ricky didn''t speak while looking at her.


    "And if you want to run away from your problems then fine, run away, but your way of ''grieving'' is messing with my life and my ability to help the people I cherish most." Madame handed the handkerchief back to Bumpy before walking past Ricky.


    "Like it or not, we''re stuck together due to correlating interests." Madame continued as Ricky stood planted in place.


    "So for the love of god Slick, choose whether you want to lead and if not, get the hell out of the way so others can." Madame got into the back of the car before driving off leaving the emotional wreck of Ricky in place.


    Rubbing his head in confusion, Ricky glanced around before setting off in a directionless walk.


    Hours passed as his feet began to ache, but he persisted until he found himself standing in front of Rocco''s grave.


    Sitting down heavily, he rested his arms on his knees and stared at the grave, lost in thought for an unknown length of time.


    "I''m going to talk like a crazy person now if you don''t mind." Ricky let out a dry laugh as he cleared his throat soon after.


    "I know you''d tell me to knock it off but I feel completely responsible for your death." Ricky ran one of his hands through his hair while confessing.


    "These thoughts of ''I should''ve been there'' or ''I shouldn''t have blown him off'' keep me from the honest truth that has been haunting me ever since I learned of your death."


    "That''s not my fault." Ricky confessed to Rocco''s grave the thing that was really eating him away.


    In Ricky''s mind, it was easier for him to simply blame himself rather than coming to the conclusion that most things were out of his control.


    "I couldn''t have known what would come of you and Eddy but even so." Ricky ducked his head, his hands coursing through his hair.


    Ricky couldn''t understand how he could have all this power yet the inability to protect the people he actually cared about which gnawed at him.


    "How am I supposed to come to terms with your death if I refuse to accept it?" Ricky seemingly asked the grave in front of him.


    "The events keep playing in my mind and I keep begging the universe to let me go back in time yet every time I open my eyes, I''m still here."


    "F*ck, I''m such a screw up." Ricky hung his head in shame, realizing he had hoped for a better version of himself.


    He knew he might never be a paragon of virtue in the public eye, but he had hoped to be a better man for those he considered family.


    However, change doesn''t just happen; it requires active effort, something he had yet to fully commit to.


    He understood now that waiting for change to come to him was futile; he needed to actively seek it out.


    "It ain''t going to come immediately, but I owe it to your memory to be a little better and that means to start by apologizing to your ma." Ricky sighed, knowing that he needed to make it right and that was the way he was going to do it.


    *Clap*


    *Clap*


    *Clap*


    The distinct sounds of clapping rang out as Ricky turned his head to see Lucky fully dressed while looking at him with a mix of respect and annoyance.


    "Pops-"


    "Shut up, you''re gonna listen." Lucky pointed while limping over to him, cane in hand.


    "First of all, I expect almost nothing from you and only ask that you be the person you''re supposed to be." Lucky stopped in front of Ricky before poking his chest with his cane.


    "But you can''t even do that because you always keep running away from your potential." Lucky hissed as Ricky looked down.


    "I mean who does that? I''ve seen the qualities in you that I wish I had yet what do you do? You actively self sabotage yourself." Lucky dryly laughed, unable to comprehend how Ricky constantly makes things harder for himself.


    "It feels like you can''t do something monumental without a f*ck up to balance it out." Lucky said, holding up both his hands.


    "Kill Owney and get two famous night clubs, then go on a bender where you literally make a mockery of yourself. Give a solid business plan that could set our family up for life and then run off at your close friend''s funeral before going on a coked up bender." Lucky looked flabbergasted at his son''s tomfoolery.


    "I''m seriously amazed at how you''re literally the definition of balance in such a twisted way." Lucky made fun of Ricky who simply took it with a sigh.


    "But at least you''re not clueless about how messed up you are." Lucky finally said a positive thing though it was questionable if it was really encouraging.


    "Now this feeling sorry for yourself shtick ends here, I''m done with the understanding approach from now on." Lucky poked at Ricky''s head so that he could jar some sense into it.


    "Now get up, you''re going to apologize to Rocco''s mother like you said you would." Lucky turned while walking back to the parked car.


    "Got it."


    15 minutes later,


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    "WHAT-oh hi Slick." A young boy, no more than ten years old, opened the door before showing a completely different expression and tone when seeing Ricky.


    "Hey Marco, is your ma around here? I need to apologize for the funeral fiasco." Ricky asked as Marco nodded, stepping aside so he could come in.


    "She''d be happy to see you, she really adores you and all since Rocco only said nice things about ya." Marco led Ricky to the master bed as he looked around the cramped apartment.


    *Knock*


    "Go away~"


    Marco tried to knock on the door but the somber tone of his mother was heard on the other end which made him sigh


    "Ma, it''s Slick." Marco said as there was a long pause as Marco gripped the handle.


    However much to his shock, the door opened by itself to reveal the distressed expression written on her face.


    "Is that really you?" Rocco''s mother whispered with a hopeful tone before she opened the door when actually seeing Ricky.


    This woman who held down her entire household was Alina Mannheim, a woman who persevered through her husband''s death and worked three jobs while taking care of her three kids, now two.


    Though that was in the past since after Rocco''s death, Luciano made it so that she never had to struggle anymore which left her even more empty.


    Alina didn''t deny this gift since her kids needed the support and her own selfishness wouldn''t stop her immense selflessness.


    "Let me put something decent on." Alina closed the door before opening it moments later with her regular clothes as Marco gave some water to Ricky.


    "Did you need something?" Alina asked since it sort of surprised Ricky as the latter remained silent.


    Ricky had never seen Alina before, but upon encountering her, he found himself immediately needing to adjust his stance as his gaze was drawn to her busty figure.


    Adjusting her glasses, Alina''s entire figure stood in stark contrast to the 1930s body standards. Her voluptuous curves seemed to defy the era''s idealized silhouette.


    From her full, rounded shoulders to her ample bosom, each aspect of her physique made a bold statement.


    Her waist, though cinched, accentuated her bust, which swelled gracefully, making her figure both eye-catching and unorthodox for the time.


    Her hips flared out in a manner that further emphasized the dramatic contours of her shape, and her entire presence, from head to toe, radiated a sensuality that was both striking and memorable.


    Yet through it all, her face was the epitome of kind and innocent as she oozed motherly warmth.


    *Ahem*


    "I wanted to come and apologize for my rude gesture at Rocco''s funeral." Ricky gripped the coffee cup tightly, trying not to have impure thoughts in front of the woman he considered his actual type.


    *Sigh*


    "Oh sweetheart~" Alina saw the immense trouble written on Ricky''s face as she snuck her hands across the table.


    *DING*


    ''Oh god.''


    [Mission Received: Alina Mannheim]


    Difficulty: Easy-Medium


    Character Sheet: C-


    Description: Alina might seem very unapproachable and vitreous but she''s been very pent up ever since her husband died. The only reason no one dared to try something with this beautiful MILF was because of Rocco, however now that department seems to have disappeared. Though you''d have to act fast cause Alina''s internal clock is pushing as once she turns thirty eight even your blessing won''t be enough.


    Objective: Release Aline from the shackles of her own guilt riddled chains that surround her luscious body and cum inside her.


    Reward: 25,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Alina Once:


    Rewards: 10,000 IP or Alina''s skills


    Impregnate Alina Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Get a full from the start blowjob from Alina while she uses her breasts, tongue, mouth, and swallows it all (Incomplete):


    Reward: Skill Coupon(Epic)


    Have Alina throw away her dignity for your cum (Incomplete):


    Reward: +8 Agility


    Cum inside all three of Alina''s holes(Incomplete):


    Reward: +6 Dexterity


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    Reward: 5,000 IP


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    [Do you wish to accept this mission? Y/N]


    "You''re such a good boy~"


    Author''s Note: Wasn''t gonna do a chap today cause I was hungover but saw that the fic hit a million views and powered through it, so I want to thank everyone for reading this fic that was orignially supposed to be an outlet when I had writers block on for my other stuff.

 Chapter 34: Power Ups

    Chapter 34: Power Ups


    "I know how close you boys were and even I struggled to keep myself from acting out during the funeral, so don''t feel bad at all sweety." Alina''s eyes started watering, wiping her eyes and gazing at Ricky with a warm smile, tears struck after reminiscing about her deceased son.


    *Huff*


    ''F*ck her hands are so soft-dammit Ricky!'' Ricky didn''t even hear what Alina even said, his entire body focusing on her soft hands on his, trying to fend off the image of those soft hands wrapped around his-


    "Ricky?" Alina worriedly asked, gripping his fingers tightly as Ricky immediately looked up at the ceiling.


    "Ah, I-I''m sorry." Ricky was really trying not to look or even think of Alina however the mother mistook his actions.


    "Oh Ricky~" Alina smiled, walking over while mistaking Ricky''s actions as an attempt to stop himself from crying.


    Pulling up a chair next to him, Alina looked at her now oldest son as Marco also mistook Ricky''s actions and decided to give them space.


    "Uh-" Ricky''s entire body tensed, knowing how weak of a man he was when it came to a woman of Alina''s stature.


    Immediately, Ricky reached for the water next to him and started guzzling it in an attempt to distract him from this situation deteriorating his sanity.


    "It''s okay Ricky, it really is~" Alina rested one hand on his arm and the other on his shoulder, rubbing him in a soothing manner.


    *Thump*


    "What was that?" Alina suddenly heard the table bump as if a hard object had hit it from the underside.


    *SPIT*


    *COUGH*


    Ricky did a spit take in the next second, coughing out any remnants of the water as Alina worriedly patted his back.


    "My knee, anyways, I think I should-"


    "Ricky, I think I understand." Alina suddenly mentioned, seeing Ricky trying to abruptly leave while the misunderstanding only furthered into an intense spiral.


    "Y-You do?" Ricky asked, thinking he had been caught, gazing at her only to be a deer in headlights when catching a glimpse at her massive cleavage.


    "You''re afraid, right?" Alina gently rubbed his cheek, her touch casual and unthinking; to her, he was just Rocco''s friend.


    However, he couldn''t help but see her for the woman she truly was.


    "No, but I am feeling a little weak." Ricky quickly understood he hadn''t been caught and tried to play it off.


    "Oh honey, feeling this way isn''t weak." Alina tilted her head with a small chuckle, Ricky gulping at this.


    "I-It''s not?" Ricky asked, knowing it wasn''t at all what she meant but felt his sanity already crumbling to its limit.


    "It''s human." Alina revealed and Ricky mouth shut before he heaved out a large sigh.


    "This is all just plicated." Ricky searched for the right word to describe his situation, his gaze drifting to the side where a blue screen urged him to act.


    Despite the prompt, he couldn''t shake the feeling that it was the wrong choice thinking it would tarnish his entire friendship with Rocco.


    "Complicated doesn''t mean impossible, sometimes, it just means you care deeply." Alina smiled softly, her eyes filled with understanding that she didn''t fully know.


    "I don''t know about that-" Ricky laughed out, knowing the things he wanted deep down were for his own selfish desire.


    "Listen honey, start by being honest with yourself." Alina advised gently, placing a hand on his chest.


    "And remember, you don''t have to go through this alone. I''m here for you." Alina''s next word made Ricky speechless, trying not to give in but couldn''t help it.


    ''I-I''m sorry Rocco, but I am a weak man.'' Ricky''s guilt couldn''t consume his lust in the end.


    ''Forgive me Rocco, forgive me.''


    *DING*


    [Quest Accepted.]


    ''But I gotta get stronger somehow, for your memory.'' Ricky told himself the most bullsh*t excuse that would have to do to quell his guilt.


    "Thank you Mrs. Mannheim." Ricky smiled warmly, his guilty smiling morphing into a sleazy one while placing a hand over hers as if accepting her advice.


    "Oh honey, your entirety welcome-"


    ''Wet To The Touch.''


    "Mmmmmmmm~" Alina exhaled deeply just as Ricky''s rough hands wrapped around hers, unable to finish her words as the tension that had gripped her for the past ten years suddenly melted away on Ricky''s unknowing command.


    The room was suddenly silent, both caught off guard by Alina''s reaction as Ricky had only ever used this technique on Ms. Collins, and she had never responded like this which made him second guess how effective it was.


    Alina''s entire body became rigid, her face gradually turning a deeper shade of red until it seemed as if smoke might trail from her ears.


    *Bump*


    "I-I-I have to go!" Alina, with an embarrassed expression mixed with a horrified one, rushed back to her room.


    Her abrupt actions caused her knee to hit the underside of the table which knocked Ricky''s drink on its side.


    "Ma, what''s your deal-"


    *BAM*


    Marco had been in the shared room with his little sister and didn''t really hear her promiscuous moan that subtly escaped, but Ricky did.


    "Oh brother, I''m sorry Slick." Marco sighed, walking over only to see her mother''s abrupt actions.


    But when he saw Ricky trying to pick up the spilled glass as water began to drip onto the floor, he stopped him.


    "It''s not problem Marco-"


    "No it''s my fault, I should''ve known better, bless her heart but she''s a klutz after all." Marco shook his head while taking the glass from Ricky and grabbing a towel.


    "I guess this is my queue to leave." Ricky let out an awkward chuckle as Marco escorted him to the door. With a forced smile, he greeted him goodbye.


    "Don''t be a stranger, pop by whenever you''re not busy." Marco waved, thinking of Ricky as a big brother, especially now that Rocco was gone from his life.


    "Oh don''t worry, I will." Ricky waved back before walking to the elevator, his hands slipping into his pockets.


    A few minutes later, as Ricky made his way out of the apartment building, he noticed Lucky''s car still parked outside.


    Inside, Lucky''s father was engrossed in the newspaper as Ricky strolled back toward the vehicle.


    "Look at this, three more dead and it''s all cause of those reckless jews-did you piss yourself or something?" Lucky pointed at the newspaper with an aggrieved expression, then cast a puzzled glance at the wet spot on Ricky''s pants.


    "Do I look like someone who can''t control his bladder?" Ricky showed a plain expression as Lucky smirked.


    "Could''ve fooled me." Lucky along with the driver, Alfonze, laughed heartily as Ricky rolled his eyes but started chuckling too.


    "Aye, stay away from the mob until I figure out what they''re doing." Lucky suddenly exclaimed after five minutes of silent riding.


    "Oh come on pops-"


    "You think I''m an idiot, you think I don''t know that your gonna pull some dumb sh*t behind my back." Lucky genuinely asked as Ricky slowly shut his mouth.


    "Listen to me idiot, I don''t want to see any part of you leave Brooklyn, ya hear me?" Lucky pointed though Ricky turned his head to the side without commenting.


    *TWACK*


    "YOU IGNORING YOUR FATHER NOW, HUH?" Lucky hit Ricky with his ivory cane almost immediately.


    *DINK*


    "YOU DROP THAT BARRIER RIGHT NOW AND TAKE THIS ASS WHOOPING LIKE A MAN-"


    "WHAT MAN WOULD TAKE AN ASS WHOOPIN!" Ricky rubbed his head, countering his father''s words while Lucky continued to beat his cane rhythmically against his shield.


    "A REAL ONE!" Lucky yelled as the anger he''d been holding back had finally been unleashed.


    "PROMISE ME RICKY, I AIN''T F*CKING PLAYING THESE GAMES WITH YOU!" Lucky used Ricky''s real name which made him flinch since it always comes with repercussions if he didn''t listen.


    *FLASHBACK*


    3 years ago,


    *Click*


    "Drop the shield Ricky and take this ass whooping." Lucky squinted as Ricky stood motionlessly next to a broken vase.


    "It was an accident pops-"


    "Ricky." Lucky gestured behind him as his men hesitated but sure enough, started cocking their tommy guns.


    This was the first time Lucky had called Ricky by his real name and not the nickname he himself gave him which had already set alarm bells in his mind.


    "You wouldn''t dare." Ricky squinted his eyes as both of them had a Mexican standoff.


    *BANG*


    Lucky pulled the trigger of his gun as a bullet shot out before immediately bouncing off of Ricky''s shield and lodging itself in the ceiling.


    Ricky flinched since he didn''t even expect Lucky to shoot, widening his eyes as the surprise and shock didn''t allow for him to use Full Counter.


    "YOU SHOT AT ME!" Ricky yelled out in disbelief but Lucky simply smiled.


    *Click*


    "I guess I would dare to after all." Lucky squinted his eyes even further as Ricky pursued his lips.


    They both knew he wouldn''t use his ability to hurt the family which is why this made for a particular predicament.


    *SIGH*


    "Fine." Ricky dropped the barrier as Lucky nodded, holstering his pistol before unraveling his belt.


    "Now take this ass whooping like a man."


    [FLASHBACK END]


    Ricky could see the visible strain on Lucky''s face since he typically hid his stress behind a mask of indifference, but this time it was different.


    The Jewish mafia''s escalating brutality, not only towards the public and other mafia families but also towards the Luciano family, was taking its toll.


    It was evident in Lucky''s demeanor, both mentally and physically.


    "Fine, I promise I''ll stay away from brooklyn until you resolve it." Ricky gave in as Lucky halted his actions before sitting back down on the seat.


    "I already got enough slack with that suit Thomas and with the Jewish Mafia on my ass, I really don''t have time for the constant headaches you give me." Lucky calmed himself down as the car slowly pulled up to their mansion.


    "Now get out and go take a shower, you smell like sh*t." Lucky used his cane to open the car door for Ricky while not forgetting to insult him.


    "And you''re going back to school tomorrow." Lucky poked Ricky with the cane as he started to get out of the car.


    "You said it was beneficial and although I completely disagree, you''re gonna see it through." Lucky reprimanded as the door closed behind him.


    "I won''t be back for a week or two until I square away these troubles." Lucky gave his lasting remarks to Ricky before driving off in the car.


    Ricky shook his head before walking back to the mansion, he didn''t even reach the double doors before seeing Isabella open it for him.


    "Oh my little figlio~" Isabella shuffled over to Ricky before pulling him into a hug.


    *DING*


    ''No.'' Ricky frowned since he was a horrible person and a bad person, but he actually had some standards though they mostly had to do with appearance.


    Isabella, bless her soul, was a elderly woman in her early sixties and age had not been kind to her which is why Ricky hadn''t made any advances.


    *Sigh*


    "I''m really fine Isabella-"


    "Nonsense, have you eaten yet-No!" Isabella didn''t even need to finish her question to know the answer as she pulled him into the kitchen.


    "Isabella-"


    "No excuses, you need to eat your already so skinny!" Isabella was aggrieved as she set Ricky at the counter before walking over to the prepared dinner.


    Ricky couldn''t get another word out as Isabella started placing an entire feast for eight at his fingertips.


    "If you don''t eat it all then you''ll make me cry, Slick~" Isabella faked crocodile tears though once she saw Ricky deadpan face, she dropped the act to go do the dishes.


    "Oh I almost forgot! A little sweetheart came by to give you these." Isabella suddenly stopped before pulling out a letter from her apron.


    Handing it to Ricky, he raised an eyebrow before immediately raising a smile after seeing Maria''s handwriting.


    Dear Ricky,


    I don''t know what Rocco meant to you but I know how much you mean to me. You''re really special to me and I hope that you''re doing just fine. I really want to talk as soon as possible, please come find me when you read this letter.


    P.S I really wish that if you would run away from things, you at least run to me.


    Sincerely Yours, Maria Profaci


    Ricky smiled as he rubbed the pink lettermen paper which had a hint of her perfume as he set the letter down.


    ''I''ll pay her a visit later tonight.''


    2 hours later,


    Ricky rubbed his stomach, having cleaned his plate completely as Isabella finally allowed him to leave the table, and he wobbled back to his room.


    Walking into the shower since he had only washed his face today, he stepped in while looking at the hovering blue icon that he put to the back of his mind earlier today.


    ''Receive.''


    [Implementing Rewards.]


    *CRACK*


    *CRACK*


    Almost immediately, Ricky''s bones began to crack, the sound echoing sharply in the confined space before they reformed, only to crack again.


    His eyes strained under the excruciating pain, veins bulging and pupils dilating.


    "ARGH!" Ricky''s pained grunt filled the bathroom as he dropped to his knees as his lungs expanded painfully, forcing his grunts into ragged, uneven breaths.


    His muscles were the next to suffer; they tore apart, fibers snapping, before reforming in a brutal endless cycle.


    Convulsions overtook his body, spasms wracking him with agonizing force as he collapsed onto the shower floor.


    The hot water cascading over him, mingling with his sweat, offering a layer of warmth that felt mocking in his current torment.


    *GASP*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Minutes passed before Ricky finally mustered the strength to take a deep breath, his chest heaving with the effort.


    As he exhaled, the breath left him in a shuddering release, his body still trembling from the aftershocks of the pain.


    "What the f*ck." Ricky gasped, patting his body, which had been internally ripped apart moments before.


    Still reeling from the horrid experience, he sat blankly on the shower floor, staring up at the ceiling, and after a while, Ricky mustered enough strength to stand up and turn off the shower nozzle.


    The water ceased as he stepped out to the side, his eyes widening slightly at the sight before him.


    "Woah." Ricky let out as his body had become completely shredded in a single day.


    "God damn." Ricky couldn''t help but flex in the mirror, a triumphant smile spreading across his face.


    The total regret from enduring that pain washed away, replaced by sheer narcissism for his newly transformed physique.


    "Totally worth it." Ricky flashed a smile at his reflection before walking back into his room.


    His previous self from just a minute ago would be cursing him relentlessly if he saw this. As he adorned some clothes, Ricky sat on his bed, his gaze fixed on the stack of unopened coupons in front of him.


    ''Use all Gacha.''


    *DING*


    [Received:


    Epic Skill: Digital Cloaking


    Description: The power to become invisible to surveillance cameras, sensors, and other forms of electronic detection, allowing for stealthy movements in highly monitored areas, can be turned on and off at will.


    Epic Skill: Defensive Precognition


    Description: A heightened sense of awareness that allows the user to foresee and react to incoming threats, enhancing their ability to dodge attacks and counter adversaries.


    Epic Item: Lorestone Pendant:


    Description: A pendant containing the knowledge of the lost ancient civilization Cortaj. When worn, it grants the wearer wisdom, language proficiency, and historical insight at random.


    Epic Growth Item: Soulbound Grimoire


    Description: A spellbook that absorbs the knowledge and abilities of the caster. As the caster learns new spells, the grimoire becomes more powerful, granting access to a wider range of magic.


    Warning: Requires Magic and Warlock proficiency to access.


    Epic Item: Translation Ring


    Description: A ring that allows the wearer to understand and speak any language, facilitating communication with diverse cultures and species.


    Epic familiar: Possessed Gerbil


    Description: A gerbil that will randomly become possessed by a random historical figure when taken out of the system.


    Warning: Once taken out of the system, it cannot be put back in.


    Rare: Blueprint Scanner


    Description: A projector that once it scans an object, will be able to accurately make a blueprint of it.


    Rare Item: Forever Lasting Lighter


    Description: A lighter that will never run out of fuel no matter how much you use it.


    Rare Item: First Aid Kit


    Description: A compact first aid kit containing bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other essentials for treating minor injuries and ailments.


    13 x Uncommon: Stainless Steel Insulated Mug: A durable, insulated mug to keep beverages hot or cold for extended periods, ideal for coffee, tea, or cold drinks on the go.


    9 x Uncommon: Collapsible Water Bowl: A collapsible bowl for pets, allowing them to drink water or eat during walks or travel, promoting their comfort and hydration.


    6 x Uncommon: Self-Watering Planters: Planters equipped with a self-watering system, ensuring that indoor plants receive adequate moisture and reducing the frequency of watering.


    5 x Uncommon: Stainless Steel Reusable Straw Set


    Description: A set of reusable metal straws, often accompanied by a cleaning brush and a travel pouch, reducing single-use plastic waste.


    3 x Uncommon: Reading Light


    Description: A clip-on or portable reading light with adjustable brightness, allowing for comfortable reading in low-light conditions.


    4 x Uncommon: Portable Clothesline: A lightweight and compact clothesline with clips or hooks, ideal for drying clothes while traveling or camping.


    6 x Uncommon: Bike Repair Kit: A compact kit containing essential tools for bicycle repair, including tire levers, patch kits, and a mini pump, ensuring riders can handle common issues during bike trips.


    12 x Common: Safety Whistle


    Description: An emergency whistle with a loud, piercing sound, essential for attracting attention during outdoor adventures or emergencies.


    34 x Common: Foldable Travel Umbrella: A durable and compact umbrella that folds into a small size, making it easy to carry in a purse or backpack for unexpected rain.


    23 x Common: Travel Spice Containers: Small, refillable containers for carrying spices and seasonings, allowing travelers to add flavor to meals while on the road.


    7x Common: Travel Sewing Kit: A compact sewing kit with threads, needles, buttons, and scissors, allowing for quick repairs on clothing and fabrics while traveling.


    8x Common: Portable Folding Chair: A lightweight and foldable chair that is easy to carry, perfect for outdoor events, picnics, or camping trips.


    41 x Common: Reusable Shopping Bags: Durable, foldable bags that can be reused for grocery shopping, reducing the use of single-use plastic bags and contributing to environmental conservation.


    20 x Common: Bike Lock: A sturdy bike lock to secure bicycles and prevent theft, allowing peace of mind when parking bikes in public places.


    ''The skills are cool though I don''t think I''ll have much need for digital cloaking in the 30s.'' Ricky thought, knowing how rare it was to see a camera in this age.


    Gazing at the items, he immediately without a second of hesitation, pulled out the best thing in the entire 200 gacha rolls which was the possessed Gerbil, cursing at his luck with this gacha.


    *GASP*


    The Gerbil took a gasp of air as it materialized in Ricky''s hand as its eyes, ears, nose, and mouth lit up in a bright light before it suddenly vanished.


    *SQUEAK*


    *SQUEAK*


    *SQUEAK*


    The gerbil stood up on its hind legs and started to squeak as Ricky tilted his head in confusion until a light bulb seemed to go off in his mind.


    ''No way this would work, right?''


    A ring materialized on his other palm, slipping on the translation ring, and immediately, the gerbil''s squeaks transformed into understandable speech.


    "GIANT, WHY HAVE YOU SUMMONED ME FROM MY SLUMBER!" The Gerbil roared with the might of a king.


    "Uh, who are you?" Ricky questioned, looking at the rodent talking in slight fascination as the gerbil''s face became ugly in almost an instant.


    "Foolish giant can''t you tell, I am Alexander III of Macedon, third of my name and twenty fourth to wear the crown!" Alexander the gerbil proclaimed making Ricky show a weird expression and at the same time a delighted expression.


    "Oh how the mighty have fallen." Ricky spoke in a similar tone as him which made Alexander flinch, mocking him slightly.


    "What do you mean giant? You are-WHERE IS MY BODY!" Alexander was confused at Ricky''s words before he turned to the side to see his reflection.


    "Well you died and possessed the body of my gerbil-" Ricky easily lied to the distressed historical king that many regard as the greatest king in history.


    "I-I am but a mere rodent!" Alexander touched his little paws against himself before plopping onto Ricky''s palm in defeat.


    "I, Alexander the great, king of Greece, conqueror of the Persians, and subjugator of the Indians, have become a rat?" Alexander asked himself in a defeated tone as it seemed like all his mighty accomplishments were for naught.


    "At least you''re not dead anymore, right?" Ricky said as if there was a bright side to the fate he found himself in while sitting Alexander on his bed, before the gerbil slowly turned towards Ricky.


    Favorability: 50


    Favorability: 32 (-18)


    Favorability: 21 (-11)


    Favorability: 0 (-21)


    "YOU!" Alexander squeaked out in rage, pointing his paw at Ricky, as if he had found the culprit to blame for it all.


    *Sigh*


    "Oh boy." Ricky thought since he didn''t expect Alexander the great to possess this gerbil.


    ''Hey Chester, are you there?'' Ricky closed his eyes to communicate with Chester since he usually didn''t like his cage and instead flew freely around, rarely conversing with Ricky unless specifically asked to.


    *Tap*


    *Tap*


    *Tap*


    Chester tapped on the window sill as Ricky got up and tried to ignore Alexander''s hateful words.


    "Hey Chester, can you understand me now?" Ricky opened the window to talk with Chester who was surprised.


    "I can." Chester nodded but was brief with his words.


    "Is it okay to ask another favor from you?" Ricky asked as Chetser plainly gazed at him.


    Favorability: 53 (-1)


    "Seriously." Ricky asked as Chester pecked at his wing before returning to Ricky''s gaze.


    "You''re a very selfish human, all asking and never giving." Chester flapped his wings before landing in front of Alexander who flinched.


    "What say you Crow?" Alexander was on guard, getting into his battle ready position expecting to throw down with this mighty beast before him.


    "I want to talk, summon to summon." Chester plainly stated, showing absolutely no fear in front of Alexander which made him weary but slowly let down his guard.


    Familiar, even of a different species, could understand each other due to the system guidance which is why Chester and Alexander could talk so freely with each other unlike Ricky, who needed a translation ring.


    Chester and Alexander engaged in what appeared to be a pleasant, one-sided conversation.


    It began with small talk, but as time passed, Alexander began to open up, unloading all his pent-up grief onto Chester.


    Throughout, Chester listened attentively, nodding along in understanding and sympathy.


    "And I think when my mother told me that I was Zeus''s bastard, I really believed it." Alexander, now laying down on the bed, confessed to Chester who nodded as if they were in a therapy session.


    "That must have been a lot of burden for such a young child, I knew someone like you once. Someone who was constantly burdened by others'' expectations of him before he let it eat away at his heart." Chester tried to relate to him as Alexander nodded while taking a deep sigh.


    "What happened to him?" Alexander asked Chester for the first time as he looked up at the ceiling for a while.


    "He did not see the light of old age, much like you he died too young." Chester confessed as Alexander slowly stood up.


    "What was the name of this fellow you speak of, he must have been a great man if he meant so much to you." Alexander sat in front of Chester who lightly sighed.


    "His name was Itachi Uchiha and although he wasn''t a good man, he was a necessary evil." Chester spoke from his heart as Alexander nodded sadly.


    "My teacher Aristotle once said ''In the realm of leadership, the gravest transgression lies in the acknowledgment that one is a compulsory malevolence, a demand made solely by adversaries.''" Alexander smiled as Chester shared the expression while Ricky sat incredibly bored by the side.


    ''Open all coupons.''


    *Ding*


    Rare Growth Familiar: Stone Golem Core (Sentience: 0%)


    Description: A golem who grows by interacting with different stones, its growth is only progressed by the very stone it wraps around itself.


    (Rare Item) Grappling Hook: A handheld device with a hook and rope, useful for climbing, traversing difficult terrain, or disarming opponents.


    (Rare Weapon) Aqua Serpent Staff: A staff adorned with a small, water-filled globe on top. When the globe is shattered, a water serpent is summoned. The serpent can create small waves or spray water, useful for dousing fires or creating a diversion.


    (Epic Weapon) Solarflare Bow: A bow crafted from the wood of a rare, sun-blessed tree. Its arrows burst into solar flames upon release, capable of piercing through multiple enemies and setting ablaze anything they touch.


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Marksmanship: Above the cut of the average joe, you are able to handle anything that requires marksmanship with a solid proficiency


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Lockpicking: Able to break any standard lock and even some less advanced safes.


    (Rare Skill) Cartography: Skill in reading and creating accurate maps, including terrain and geographical features.


    ''Before I get to my status, I need to go to the shop.'' Ricky calmed himself down at the interesting rewards as he pulled up to the IP shop since he had reset the refreshable items he wanted to see the new ones.


    [SHOP]


    IP: 70,000


    Refreshable Items:


    Lust Pills: 5,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Two pills that if ingested make the person extremely horny causing them to lose all sense of reason only focusing on lust.


    Desire Scented Lube: 10,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Lube scented with pure desire.


    Prehistoric Desire: 100,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: The user can activate this skill on any woman and it will surface the buried instincts of our primitive ancestors though this skill primarily focuses on the lustful desire.


    First Condition: The woman this skill is used on must be already interested in the user or it will not work.


    Second Condition: Cannot be used twice on a single woman.


    {Refresh Available}


    Daily Item:


    Fuzzy Pink Cuffs: 5,000 IP


    Description: A pair of fuzzy handcuffs that gives any girl +5 breathability


    Weekly Item:


    Addicting Semen(Passive): 35,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Your Semen will become like nicotine in a sense that after having it for a while they will have withdrawals without it.


    Monthly Item:


    Berserk Mode: 200,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: The user can activate this skill and will have its stamina increased by tenfold however their reasoning will be all but gone


    Ricky knew he should hold onto these points however his impulsive nature immediately kicked in as he bought Addicting semen, and lust pills cause why not.


    ''Isn''t this like a roofie?'' Ricky felt conflicted when gazing at it since he wasn''t low enough to use something like this especially when he gazed in a nearby mirror and winked at his own dashing reflection.


    ''This face doesn''t need any roofie''s.'' Ricky smirked, already holding the drug that way his jawline that he was confident could cut through granite.


    ''Whatever, I can always get more points.'' Ricky thought as he saw those items in the store cross out.


    ''Now, Status.''


    [Status]


    Name: Ricky Luciano


    Titles: Deadbeat, Royal Thug, Prodigal Son


    Age: 15


    Born: October, 27, 1918


    Race: Human


    Strength: 22 (Slightly above peak adult male)


    Stamina: 19 (Above average adult male)


    Vitality: 20 (Peak adult male)


    Agility: 21 (Peak adult male)


    Dexterity: 19 (Above average adult male)


    Intelligence: 6 (You''ve grown but that doesn''t mean your not an Idiot)


    Charm: 25 (Your charm is extremely high for your age)


    Appearance: 26 (The baby fat has melted with age and with it has surfaced your golden jawline, use it well.)


    IP: 30,000


    Gacha: 0


    [Familiars]


    Familiar:


    Chester (Favorability: 53):


    Description: The crow of Itachi who died before it could gain Shishui''s mangekyou sharingan.


    ¨CSkills:


    ¨CChunin Chakra Reserves:


    ¨CEagle Eye: Chester is able to share his sights with you though only if he wishes.


    ¨CAdvanced Genjutsu: The Crow is adept in the art of trickery and illusion.


    Alexander The Gerbil (Favorability: 0):


    Description: Alexander the great has possessed your Gerbil.


    -Skills: LOCKED (Favorability to low)


    Rare Growth Familiar: Stone Golem Core (Sentience: 0%)


    Description: A golem who grows by interacting with different stones, its growth is only progressed by the very stone it wraps around itself.


    IP Skills:


    Apex Fertility: The user''s seed will be amongst the peak in the universe and incredibly fertile as your seed can even rejuvenate the womb of a woman who cannot even give birth. All it takes is one load to impregnate any woman in an instant.


    Wet To The Touch: A skill that allows for the user to instantly make any girl wet and lubricate their insides for peak insertion.


    Condition: Only can be used once a day.


    Promiscuous scent(Passive): 15,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Anyone who owns this skill will passively give off a scent that will make any woman who smells it feel promiscuous.


    Addicting Semen(Passive): 20,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Your Semen will become like nicotine in a sense that after having it for a while they will have withdrawals without it.


    IP Items:


    Lust Pills: Two pills that if ingested make the person extremely horny causing them to lose all sense of reason only focusing on lust.


    Skills:


    ¨CX Gene''s:


    Psionic Force Fields: While the cells of the user''s body produce a certain energy manifestation, the cells of his brain produce a different, more potent manifestation. Through concentration, Ricky is able to project an invisible field of psionic force drawn from Ricky''s own mind. He can shape these fields into various forms, limited only by his imagination and mental focus, ranging from small objects like marbles to large domes with a diameter of about 100 feet. These force fields can be solid or hollow, and he can manipulate their size, shape, and movement at will. Ricky can use these fields to travel in the air, reaching speeds of about 25 miles per hour for up to 4 hours before becoming fatigued. His force fields are also capable of blocking telekinesis and preventing mental intrusion, making him highly versatile in combat situations.


    Full Counter: The ability to counter any non physical attack at its original user with twice the power


    Conditions:


    The user must have a conduit or weapon to reflect an attackThe user must be able to react to or swing towards an attack with the proper timing in order to reflect the attackThere must be an attack to reflect.


    ¨COther Skills:


    (Epic Skill) Lie Detection: Anyone who tells a lie in front of you will cause a sixth sense to go off in your mind signaling the falsehood of their words.


    (Epic Skill) Digital Cloaking: The power to become invisible to surveillance cameras, sensors, and other forms of electronic detection, allowing for stealthy movements in highly monitored areas.


    (Epic Skill) Defensive Precognition: A heightened sense of awareness that allows the user to foresee and react to incoming threats, enhancing their ability to dodge attacks and counter adversaries.


    (Rare Skill) Green Thumb: Turn waste that won''t decompose for more than 50 years into trees.


    ¨CEffects: Works on toxic waste, plastic, rubber, and others


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Marksmanship: Above the cut of the average joe, you are able to handle anything that requires marksmanship with a solid proficiency


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Lockpicking: Able to break any standard lock and even some less advanced safes.


    (Rare Skill) Cartography: Skill in reading and creating accurate maps, including terrain and geographical features.


    Titles:


    Deadbeat: You have increased odds to flee from the responsibilities of a child and run out like a scumbag.


    Royal Thug: You aren''t just born into the thug life but are born into the nobility of the thug life


    ¨CEffect: A ingrained respect is giving to you by all gangster, mobsters, and thugs


    Prodigal Son: Your fame has gained you considerable attention and expectations.


    ¨CEffect: Mobsters will subconsciously demand that you match their level of expectations. Failing to meet their expectations, however, will subject you to their severe judgment and negativity.


    Items:


    (Legendary Item) Storage Space Key: A key that can be turned on any door and will lead to a 36 x 36 yard room that can have anything in the mortal plane stored in it.


    (Legendary Item) Blue Eyes White Dragon: An original Blue eyes white dragon, vintage, and sealed delicately within plastic.


    ¨CEffect: Makes all those in the vicinity tremble in fear at its mere existence alone.


    (Epic Item) Lorestone Pendant: A pendant containing the knowledge of the ancient civilization Cortaj. When worn, it grants the wearer wisdom, language proficiency, and historical insight at random.


    (Epic Growth Item) Soulbound Grimoire: A spellbook that absorbs the knowledge and abilities of the caster. As the caster learns new spells, the grimoire becomes more powerful, granting access to a wider range of magic.


    (Epic Item) Translation Ring: A ring that allows the wearer to understand and speak any language, facilitating communication with diverse cultures and species.


    (Rare Item) Medieval Cannon: Shoots cannonballs


    (Rare Item) Cross Necklace: Makes an unholy being in the area unable to look you in the eye.


    (Rare Item) Gravity Shoes: Gravity is your b*tch with these shoes, its laws don''t apply to you if the soles of your feet nestle in these soles


    (Rare Item) Courageous Thimble: Whoever adorned this thimble on their pinky will be able to gaze upon an army of 100,000 masters and simply laugh at the challenge.


    (Rare Item) Brass Knuckles: New Brass knuckles that are ready to bash the skulls of whoever you choose.


    (Rare Item) Fine China plates: A collection of exquisitely crafted plates made from the finest porcelain. Each plate features intricate designs and delicate patterns, showcasing a blend of elegance and craftsmanship. Perfect for special occasions or as treasured heirlooms, these plates add a touch of sophistication and luxury to any dining experience.


    (Rare Item) Blueprint Scanner: A projector that once it scans an object, will be able to accurately make a blueprint of it.


    (Rare Item) Forever Lasting Lighter: A lighter that will never run out of fuel no matter how much you use it.


    (Rare Item) First Aid Kit: A compact first aid kit containing bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other essentials for treating minor injuries and ailments.


    Rare Item: Grappling Hook A handheld device with a hook and rope, useful for climbing, traversing difficult terrain, or disarming opponents.


    (Uncommon Item) Stainless Steel Sporks x 23: A set of 23 durable and versatile utensils combining the functionality of a spoon and fork.


    (Uncommon Item) Empty Portraits x 2: Two finely crafted portrait frames, waiting to be filled with memories or artwork. Each frame is elegantly designed, offering a blank canvas to showcase cherished moments or creative expressions. Ideal for personalizing your living space or as thoughtful gifts.


    (Uncommon Item) Sheet''s of mint scented paper x 34: A collection of 34 pristine sheets of paper, delicately infused with a refreshing mint scent.


    (Uncommon Item) 9mm pistol: A reliable, compact firearm chambered for 9mm rounds. Known for its accuracy and ease of use, this pistol is an effective choice for self-defense or tactical situations. It comes with a standard magazine and safety features, ready for immediate use.


    (Uncommon Item) Medkits x 10: A set of 10 comprehensive medkits, each containing supplies for treating a variety of injuries and emergencies. With enough provisions to care for up to 20 people, these kits are essential for ensuring health and safety in challenging situations, whether at home, in the field, or during emergencies.


    (Uncommon Item) Stainless Steel Insulated Mug: A durable, insulated mug to keep beverages hot or cold for extended periods, ideal for coffee, tea, or cold drinks on the go. X 13


    (Uncommon Item) Collapsible Water Bowl: A collapsible bowl for pets, allowing them to drink water or eat during walks or travel, promoting their comfort and hydration. X 9


    (Uncommon Item) Self-Watering Planters: Planters equipped with a self-watering system, ensuring that indoor plants receive adequate moisture and reducing the frequency of watering. X 6


    (Uncommon Item) Stainless Steel Reusable Straw Set: A set of reusable metal straws, often accompanied by a cleaning brush and a travel pouch, reducing single-use plastic waste. X 5


    (Uncommon Item) Reading Light: A clip-on or portable reading light with adjustable brightness, allowing for comfortable reading in low-light conditions. X 3


    (Uncommon Item) Portable Clothesline: A lightweight and compact clothesline with clips or hooks, ideal for drying clothes while traveling or camping. X 4


    (Uncommon Item) Bike Repair Kit: A compact kit containing essential tools for bicycle repair, including tire levers, patch kits, and a mini pump, ensuring riders can handle common issues during bike trips. X 6


    (Common Item) Safety Whistle: An emergency whistle with a loud, piercing sound, essential for attracting attention during outdoor adventures or emergencies. X 12


    (Common Item) Foldable Travel Umbrella: A durable and compact umbrella that folds into a small size, making it easy to carry in a purse or backpack for unexpected rain. X 34


    (Common Item) Travel Spice Containers: Small, refillable containers for carrying spices and seasonings, allowing travelers to add flavor to meals while on the road. X 23


    (Common Item) Travel Sewing Kit: A compact sewing kit with threads, needles, buttons, and scissors, allowing for quick repairs on clothing and fabrics while traveling. X 7


    (Common Item) Portable Folding Chair: A lightweight and foldable chair that is easy to carry, perfect for outdoor events, picnics, or camping trips. X 8


    (Common Item) Reusable Shopping Bags: Durable, foldable bags that can be reused for grocery shopping, reducing the use of single-use plastic bags and contributing to environmental conservation. X 41


    (Common Item) Bike Lock: A sturdy bike lock to secure bicycles and prevent theft, allowing peace of mind when parking bikes in public places. X 20


    (Common Item) Cobwebs x 76: A delicate network of sticky silk threads spun by a spider, this cobweb is an emblem of neglect and time''s passage.


    (Common Item) Scented Mint Lotion x 10: Gives off the masculine scent of mint.


    (Common Item) Broken clocks x 4: Clocks that were once in use but have broken down overtime until they simply stopped working.


    (Common Item) LED flashlight: A compact, powerful light source equipped with energy-efficient LED technology.


    (Common Item) Wine Cooler: A sleek, modern appliance designed to chill and store wine at the optimal temperature.


    (Common Item) Rusted Ax: A heavy, weathered ax with a blade tarnished by rust and years of neglect.


    (Common Item) Napkins: Use it to wipe whatever is dirty. X 99


    Ricky hadn''t realized before, but now he had fully realized how important these skills and items could be as well as how they could benefit him in the future.


    ''That blueprint scanner is a total cheat.'' Ricky also thought that although he wasn''t the smartest needle in the haystack, he at least knew how valuable these items were in this time period.


    ''No one has to know that I didn''t invent these right? I mean, who cares if I take away from those who hadn''t even thought of it yet-''


    "Human, I have calmed my waring mind." Alexander finally spoke while Ricky mulled over his list as he gazed up to see Alexander on top of Chester''s head.


    "But I must organize myself to reach a better state of clarity, me and Chester shall be back on the morrow." Alexander nodded along with Chester who flapped his wings before rocketing out of the window.


    *Sigh*


    "I-"


    "You know what, I''m not even mad." Ricky shook his head, standing up as he started walking towards the door.


    "I need to see Maria." Ricky lightly sighed, walking out his house as he got into his car and drove off.


    Meanwhile at the Profaci Residence,


    Laying on her bed, Maria clutched Ricky''s leather jacket while staring in a daze at the ceiling above her with a sense of longing eclipsing her expression.


    Maria wasn''t upset at Ricky for leaving all of a sudden, but instead disappointed that instead of running to her, Ricky ran away from his problems.


    In Maria''s mind, Ricky had always been there for her during the most difficult times of her recent life.


    Through all of her recent heartaches, Ricky had been there for her and it made her feel guilty that she couldn''t do the same for him.


    ''Are we even going steady?'' Maria questioned with immediate discomfort as she started doubting whether Ricky had feelings for her.


    ''No Maria, he likes you. He really likes you-''


    *Dink*


    "Huh?" Maria looked as she heard a clicking sound before looking around with confusion.


    "What was-"


    *Dink*


    Maria''s head jerked to her window as she tilted her head in confusion, sitting up from her bed while pursing her lips.


    "What is that-AHHH!" Maria got up to check before seeing a hand place itself on the window pane.


    Maria immediately screeched and fell on her butt, backing up until she suddenly froze while widening her eyes in surprise.


    "Ricky-"


    "PRINCESS WHAT''S WRONG!" Profaci shouted from downstairs as Maria flinched before looking back at her door then towards the window.


    Rushing forward, she opened her window to see Ricky struggling to climb up to her window sill before flashing a smile upon seeing his princess.


    "Hey beautiful, mind giving me a hand?" Rickcy said in a cheesy voice as Maria started panicking while pulling him into her room.


    "What are you doing!" Maria screamed in a whisper though Ricky simply chuckled while grabbing the ledge to pull himself up.


    "Why do you think I''m climbing into your window? Of course, I wanted to see you." Ricky said as he touched his shoes onto the floor.


    He could''ve used his gravity shoes but he thought it might''ve freaked Maria out and also wanted to make his efforts authentic.


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    "PRINCESS WHAT''S WRONG, CAN I OPEN THE DOOR?" Profaci asked though first asked for permission


    "I-I''m fine Uncle!" Maria anxiously spoke, pacing back and forth in panic while Ricky nonchalantly wiped his hands on his jacket.


    "Then what was that scream?!" Profaci questioned as Maria looked towards Ricky who was admiring her room.


    "I-It was a bug-yeah it was a bug!" Maria came up with an excuse as Ricky tried to hold back his laughter.


    "Alright, love you princess."


    "Love you too uncy."


    Maria bit her lip before hearing her uncle walk away until finally letting out a sigh of relief as Ricky let out his chuckle.


    "So, I''m a bug now?" Ricky teased Maria who went pale before aggressively shaking her head back and forth.


    "N-n-no I-I-I-I-I-....Ricky~" Maria started to panic until she saw Ricky was messing with her which made her whine.


    "Sorry, I''m sorry." Ricky saw how distressed he made her, walking over to take Maria into his embrace.


    *Sniff*


    "You''re such a meanie, you suddenly leave, twice, then show up unannounced. You''re the worst." Maria buried her head into his chest as Ricky''s face twitched since she wasn''t exactly wrong in her words.


    "Now that you pointed it out, I kinda am the worst." Ricky shrugged, wholeheartedly agreeing with her as Maria looked up with a frown.


    "No you''re not!" Maria hit his chest as Ricky instantly became confused.


    "Then why-you know what, nevermind." Ricky held up his hands though when he tried to walk away, she latched onto him even tighter.


    "Don''t go." Maria whispered which made Ricky smile as he suddenly picked her up.


    "Ricky-eep!" Maria squealed as Ricky propelled both of them onto her bed as she held onto him with dear life.


    "Then I guess I''ll intrude for a bit." Ricky gently whispered as he ran his hand through her curly black hair.


    Maria pouted while laying on his chest, puffing out her cheeks like a squirrel while putting her finger on his cheeks.


    "Don''t. Do. That." Maria tried to be angry but as she messed around with Ricky''s cheeks, she started laughing.


    "I''m sorry for making you worried." Ricky said in an apologetic tone as Maria laid on his chest with a silent contemplative look.


    "Apology accepted, don''t do it again." Maria glared, but Ricky just wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close.


    She rolled her eyes, but when they settled, Ricky was right there, close enough to touch as their breaths brushed against each other and in that moment, she instinctively closed her eyes.


    It was slow, Maria nervousness was palpable but their lips eventually met in a passionate embrace.


    Ricky''s lips were gentle, slowly slipping his tongue alongside her while gently teased hers, and before they knew it, their breathing quickened.


    They were slowly becoming lost in the sensation, unable to break away, their tongues dancing a heated tango.


    Wrapped up in each other, Maria followed Ricky''s lead, her inexperience matched by his guiding touch and as the passion between them grew, overwhelming their senses.


    Ricky''s hand traced a path down her back, the touch sending shivers down her spine as his fingers lingered at her waist, the heat between them palpable.


    "R-Ricky." Maria broke the kiss with haste as a deep red blush completely occupied her cheeks.


    "Yeah?" Ricky showed a promiscuous smile, moving his lips closer without warning as they collided once more.


    "Ricky-mmmm." Maria once again tried to break herself away from the gravitational pull that was Ricky''s touch, entrancing her with his warmth.


    "I-I''m not ready!" Maria suddenly yelled, pushing herself up and off Ricky who paused as Maria bit her lip and looked away with embarrassment.


    ''Oh gee wize Maria, look what you did-'' Maria wanted to cry, seeing Ricky''s sudden shock and feeling immensely guilty.


    "What do you mean?" Ricky raised an eyebrow, playing dumb as Maria looked back with skepticism.


    "You know?" Maria was too embarrassed to say it though Ricky continued to play dumb for his own amusement.


    "Maria, are you not ready to kiss or-" Ricky purposely interrupted her words wrong as Maria had thought he was genuinely confused.


    "Baby making!" Maria spit out as her face flushed in a complete red as Ricky froze in shock.


    *Pffft*


    "Baby making!" Ricky reverberated Maria''s own words as he started dying of laughter as Maria now looked beat red.


    "Y-You!" Maria started hitting Ricky to make him stop but it only made him laugh harder.


    "Ok, ok." Ricky grabbed Maria''s wrist as her flush face timidly looked down.


    "We''ll take it slow, how does that sound?" Ricky kissed her forehead making Maria smile warmly as she laid on his chest.


    "Good?"


    "Good."


    The two then proceeded to reveal themselves in each other''s company as they silently laid in each other''s arms until they fell asleep in each other''s arms.


    6 hours later.


    "Ricky."


    "Huh, what?" Ricky looked up, battling his eyes as he looked around to see Maria on top of him.


    "You need to leave before morning or my uncle will kill you." Maria whispered as Ricky widened his eyes before looking to the side to see the night completely black.


    Almost immediately, Ricky got out of Maria''s bed and headed before instantly stopping before taking a couple steps back.


    "See you tomorrow." Ricky kissed Maria''s cheek which made her give an endearing smile at his cute gesture before crawling out of the window.


    Closing it behind him, Ricky trekked down the side of the Profaci family manner before finally touching down on the dirt.


    "Did ya have a good time?"


    "I really did-" Ricky unconsciously responded before freezing in place, turning around he saw Profaci smoking a cigar while sitting on a lawn chair.


    "Ya think I''m an idiot?" Profaci asked Ricky, pointing his cigar at the fool that was Ricky.


    "No Uncle." Ricky dryly chuckled, scratching his chin while Profaci shook his head and tapped the cigar over to the side.


    "It''s a good thing ya got a handsome face cause you ain''t the smartest horse on the track." Profaci sighed, taking another puff soon after.


    "Did you really think I wouldn''t be notified when your car entered the neighborhood, regardless if you parked a block away or not?" Profaci genuinely asked as Ricky thought for a while.


    "Yes?" Ricky gave his answer as Profaci scoffed though put on a smile.


    *Sigh*


    "Lucky''s right about you, you''ve got guts" Profaci complimented, standing up before walking up to him.


    "But if you ever make my Princess worry like you did this past week, the only date you''ll have is with the fishes." Profaci poked Ricky''s chest before walking back towards the house.


    "Does that mean I''m in the clear, you know, about sneaking into your house?" Ricky joked as Profaci shook his head.


    "Nope." Profaci opened then swiftly closed the door behind him while Ricky shrugged before walking back to his car.


    Making his way back to his house, Ricky sneaked into the mansion before collapsing back on his bed.


    "Welcome back."


    Meanwhile in a random store front in Harlem,


    "Elijah, I didn''t get my payment~" A voice chimed on the other side of the door of a local black owner hardware shop.


    "GO AWAY, THIS IS LUCIANO TERRITORY NOW-"


    "PUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"


    The sounds of mockery were heard as Eijah tried to scare this lunatic off only to receive a booming laughter.


    "Oh you stupid little fella, they don''t care about you if you don''t pay them protection." The voice mocked from the other side of the door.


    "Get him."


    "Dad?" A small child peeked out from the side, catching Elijah''s attention.


    With widened eyes, he rushed forward and grabbed his son, quickly ushering him into a nearby cabinet and shutting it close.


    Elijah closed his eyes, waiting for something to happen, but there was only silence. Curiosity got the better of him, and he peeked up above the counter.


    The peaceful view of his storefront greeted him, making him raise an eyebrow in confusion.


    *BOOOOOM*


    The door exploded with a deafening crash, sending wooden splinters flying through the air.


    Elijah staggered backward, a sharp pain shooting through his back as it collided with the sturdy shelf behind him.


    Groaning, he fought to open his eyes against the dim, flickering light of the room and just as he managed to pry them open, the gentle glow of the moon was abruptly snuffed out.


    Confused, he blinked rapidly, trying to make sense of the sudden darkness.


    As his vision adjusted, shapes began to materialize before him, he saw three figures emerging from the shadows, their forms twisted and unnatural.


    They loomed over him, their eyes gleaming with an otherworldly light as Elijah''s heart raced as he realized the full horror of the creatures that now stood before him.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    *BAM*


    "BUMPY AN ATTACK HAPPENED IN ELIJAH''S SHOP!"


    At Madame St. Claire''s offices, Bumpy was walking around and adjourning to any tasks that needed his capabilities until the door swung open.


    "WHAT?" Bumpy yelled out, immediately rushing out and following the man who led him to the storefront.


    Then to his horror, he saw creatures that weren''t a part of god''s choir stuff his fellow man into big burlap sacks.


    "Go get back up!" Bumpy yelled at the man who was currently pissing himself when gazing at the creatures in front of him.


    "But I-"


    "GO-"


    *SPLAT*


    Blood splashed onto him as the man who was cowering in horror suddenly had his entire body explode.


    It was only a second ago, a mere second, that his body was intact but now he was nothing but a pile of flesh.


    Turning back, he saw the creature towering over him with razor sharp teeth morphed into a crazy bloodthirsty smile.


    "DIEEEEEE!" Bumpy let out a roar cry, grabbing the pistol at his waist and holding it up to the monster.


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    Bumpy unloaded his pistol into the monstrous creature but instead of screams of agony, chuckles of glee sounded from this monster.


    *GASP*


    Bumpy gasped out, his throat suddenly clasped by huge claws as he was slowly raised into the air.


    Then to Bumpy''s horror, the creature''s jaw started to unhook which encompassed his sight to the terrifying amount of jagged teeth until the sun started to rise.


    "AYE, WE GOT A QUOTA TO MEET AND THE SUN RISING, WE''LL FEED YOU LATER!" A man shouted behind the creature who stopped, gazing back at the rising sun then looking at Bumpy.


    The monster sighed, then wound up Bumpy and threw him into the distance, turning around as if his actions were of no consequence.


    Bumpy flew aimlessly through the air, his limbs flailing wildly like a puppet cut loose from its strings.


    *CRASH*


    He crashed into a car with a jarring impact that sent a brutal hum ringing through the street, the sound of his body colliding with the car''s metal frame echoing throughout the neighborhood.


    As he crashed into the car, a sickening crunch filled the air, followed by the sound of shattering glass.


    Bumpy was smashed against the vehicle, leaving his body in a wretched state as blood started to pour from the glass shards that tore through his back and other parts of his body.


    He lay motionless, a grotesque tableau of mangled limbs and contorted features, his life almost extinguished from his eyes.


    The sun slowly began to rise on the horizon, casting a stark contrast against the stillness of death that now enveloped Bumpy''s broken form.


    "Ooooooooooooooooooooooo~"

 Chapter 35: A Gerbil’s Grievance

    Chapter 35: A Gerbil''s Grievance


    "Welcome back."


    "What the-Chester?" Ricky flinched, then noticed Chester and Alexander perched on top of his shelf, staring down at him.


    "It is we, Alexander and Chester. United under one fate as we share in our-"


    "I-I just can''t do this interaction right now, I''m too tired for this." Ricky waved his hand right before Alexander could mumble on into some tirade.


    "But I-"


    "Can it wait until morning, I''m exhausted?" Ricky asked, already pulling a blanket over himself as Alexander drooped his shoulders.


    "I-I suppose so-"


    "Then see you in the morning." Ricky then collapsed into a deep slumber, Alexander''s lips twitching in sadness all the while.


    *Sniff*


    "I am a strong warrior, and strong warriors don''t cry~" Alexander encouraged himself, wiping his eyes so that no tears would stain them.


    After countless hours of soul-searching and long talks with Chester, Alexander finally found the right words to express himself to the man who had abruptly wrenched him from his eternal slumber.


    Transforming him from his Macedonian form, the epitome of his era during his time, and into the body of a gerbil.


    After finally mustering the courage to voice everything he truly wished to say from his heart, he was dismissed for the sake of mere sleep.


    "You''re very strong, Alexander." Chester encouraged him, their friendship blooming through the shared tragedy of being Ricky''s familiar, the common adversity giving them a sense of familiarity.


    "I am grateful for your words Chester."


    "It is nothing, my friend."


    4 hours later,


    Ricky rubbed his eyes, the light shining down through his eyelids and with a loud yawn, he opened them, blinking against the brightness.


    ''Oh for f*cks sake.'' Ricky thought inwardly, rolling his eyes when seeing Alexander holding a piece of paper.


    Chester had encouraged him to write down all his feelings and present them to the person who had caused him so much distress. As he prepared himself, he geared up to pour his entire heart out.


    *Sigh*


    "Alright, let''s get this over with and hit me with it." Ricky gestured to his new gerbil which was possessed by Alexander the Great, knowing this oncoming speech would be brutal but decided to get it out of the way instead of putting it off.


    "I, Alexander the Great, king of Macedonia, hegemon of the Hellenic League, and conqueror of Persia, Egypt, and beyond, lament profoundly in this strange and unforeseen moment. Verily, I find myself disheartened beyond measure, for I, who once stood tall and proud as a colossus among men, have been unceremoniously awakened within the diminutive form of a gerbil. The grandeur of my conquests, the glory of my name, and the echoes of my triumphs reverberate through the annals of history. Yet, fate has played a cruel jest upon my essence, confining me within this humble creature''s vessel. Oh, how my spirit longs for the vast horizons, the clash of swords, and the thunderous hooves of my mighty steed, Bucephalus! In this diminutive form, I am but a shadow of my former self, yearning for the days when I commanded armies and shaped the destiny of nations. Alas, I beseech you for answers as to why I''ve taken this form, for what does my purpose hold within this state, it is only right that I am justly compensated with the words of truth in which you so deceitfully hold from me. Also let it be known, my lamentation fills the heavens, echoing across time and space. May you hear my heed, my plea, and grant me release from this peculiar fate, restoring me to the stature and glory befitting Alexander the Great, the indomitable ruler of realms vast and untamed." Alexander gloriously finished while looking up at his summoner, puffing out his chest to show his furry exterior.


    At first, Ricky was indifferent, but that changed when he heard the genuine passion and emotion in Alexander''s words.


    It became clear that Alexander wasn''t just an automaton by the system but a real being, capable of thinking, understanding, and, most importantly, feeling which weirded him out greatly.


    This realization greatly confused Ricky, who had believed that his sole purpose was for Alexander to assist him without any questions filling him with a twinge of guilt.


    Ricky tried to empathize with Alexander, seeing things from his perspective.


    However, he couldn''t genuinely understand where Alexander was coming from, having never been transformed into a gerbil himself.


    "I''m-.......I''m sorry and I know it must feel crappy to wake up in the body of a gerbil." Ricky actually apologized for confining Alexander in that body as the mighty king nodded along, puffing out his chest in the process.


    "And I don''t want to disregard you or anything, but summoning you was an accident." Ricky then confessed again as Alexander froze in shock.


    "W-What?" Alexander asked in confusion and Ricky let out a sigh, deciding to tell him.


    Alexander had crafted his entire speech on the assumption that the man before him sought his aid for something significant, only to be told it was merely a mistake.


    "The guidelines of the summon were any historical figure and you just so happened to be summoned so I didn''t mean to-" Ricky decided to leave out the system part but Alexander didn''t care either way.


    "You pulled me from my eternal rest-.......on accident?" Alexander, baffled at what Ricky just said, collapsed onto his butt in exasperation.


    Chester Favorability: 52


    Chester Favorability: 51 (-1)


    "Wait Alexander-" Ricky looked to the side to see Chester shaking his head in disappointment, trying to clear up the confusion and explain further.


    "Cease your upcoming words for I will turn a deaf ear to them, I must recollect my thoughts, be gone." Alexander dramatically turned away as Ricky facepalmed as it seemed he had a knack for making things worse.


    "Can you at least hear me out-"


    "I SAID CEASE YOUR WORDS AND BEGONE!" Alexander let out a mighty roar, proclaiming in loud squeaks for Ricky to hear, the latter holding up his hands.


    "Ok, ok." Ricky could sense how much he was unsettling Alexander with his mere presence, so he decided to excuse himself and take a shower.


    Upon his exit, Chester found Alexander''s mighty facade had crumbled, leaving him sprawled out on the ground, defeated, much like the fall of the Greek Empire.


    "Alexander, if it makes you feel better I was also summoned randomly-"


    "It does not matter Chester, nothing matters in a world without a purpose, that is what my teacher Aristotle always used to say." Alexander closed his eyes, yearning for a deep sleep, while Chester, sensing his need for solitude, flew out of the window to continue building his nest in the tree outside Ricky''s window.


    Emerging from the shower, Ricky found Alexander the gerbil sprawled on the top shelf, devoid of any vigor unlike before.


    It then finally dawned on Ricky that familiars above the rank of Epic were not bound to obey their masters'' commands.


    Initially, Ricky hadn''t given it much thought, but witnessing the sentience of his familiars made him finally understand the rationale behind this rule.


    Suddenly, a lightbulb flashed above his head, and he hurriedly dressed before appearing next to Alexander.


    "Alexander, I''m about to do something reckless and maybe even shed some blood, want to join?" Ricky asked the war hungry gerbil''s whose ear twitched.


    "Tempting me with the call for arms will not simply make my emotions fleeting." Alexander scoffed only to make Ricky shrug.


    "Fine, then I guess I''ll have to fight for glory and reclaim my honor all by my lonesome." Ricky spoke in Alexander''s way of speaking, walking away only for Alexander''s figure to slowly stand up.


    "Glory? Honor?" The words sparked the fire of intrigue in his tiny heart as he scampered to the edge of the shelf.


    "What does thou mean?" Alexander wished for him to elaborate as Ricky turned to Alexander with a serious expression.


    "My friend was murdered by my enemy and all I seek is the thirst for justice." Ricky spoke in terms that Alexander could once again understand, clutching his fist in a dramatic way.


    In the shower, Ricky reflected on the situation as unlike others, Alexander was essentially bound to him.


    However the majority of his reasoning stemmed from the fact that if he was going to get himself into a fight, then having a famous commander by his side wouldn''t be so bad.


    All the while, Alexander''s eyes lit up at the thought, his mind racing at the opportunity to see this time''s way of fighting.


    "THE LUST OF BATTLE HAS ENSNARED ME ONCE MORE, COME, LET US GO AND RECLAIM YOUR HONOR, YOUNG RICKY!" Alexander''s heartache was quickly replaced by his love for battle, and it roared in defiance for blood.


    Ricky chuckled and scooped him up, placing him on his shoulder as they strolled out the door.


    Alexander Favorability: 0


    Alexander Favorability: 13 (+13)


    "Let us go and slay my enemies!" Ricky laughed out loudly, proclaiming with a loud shout as Alexander raised his tiny paw.


    "HAZZAY!"


    Walking out of the mansion, he saw not his car but Jake''s car parked in front of his doorway as he raised an eyebrow at the sight.


    "Come on, I''ll give you a ride." Jake rolled down his window and tapped the side of his car, prompting Alexander to raise an eyebrow.


    "Your comrade?" Alexander asked, carefully gazing at the man in front of him.


    "I guess so, yeah." Ricky nodded to Alexander on his shoulder, getting in the front seat of the car.


    "And is this your chariot, such a weird contraption?" Alexander marveled at the craftsmanship, in awe of the modern day vehicle.


    "Yep." Ricky nodded along, tapping the vehicle while Alexander''s eyes sparkled.


    *Jake Meyer''s POV*


    *Squeak*


    "I guess so, yeah."


    *Squeak*


    "Yep."


    Jake wanted to speak but hesitated, overhearing something entirely different as Ricky conversed with an actual gerbil.


    "Uh, Slick." Jake asked, Ricky turning over to him with a curious expression.


    "What''s up?" Ricky asked once Jake stopped on the gas, the car blazing forward which made Alexander flinch since he swore this had to be pulled by horses.


    "Why are you talking to a gerbil as if it can talk back?"


    *Jake Meyer''s POV END*


    "Can he not understand my words?" Alexander tilted his head as Jake''s face became weirder as if the hamster could understand him.


    "Evidently he can''t." Ricky notified Alexander who nodded his head.


    "A shame." Alexander sat on Ricky''s shoulder with the latter nodding.


    "Indeed."


    Needless to say, it was a weird car ride for Jake who continued to peek at Ricky and Alexander talking back and forth.


    "Make a right." Ricky suddenly spoke as Jake gave him a weird look.


    "This isn''t the way to school-"


    "I know, make a right." Ricky tapped the window as Jake tilted his head but turned the car as requested.


    Ricky then began guiding him to a specific location, eventually arriving in Harlem and parking directly in front of Madame St. Clair''s office for the Numbers game.


    "Skid, I need favor." Ricky unbuckled his seatbelt and turned to Jake, who wore a foreboding expression.


    "When you go to school-"


    "I ain''t gonna go nowhere." Jake gripped the steering wheel tightly as Ricky laughed, wiping his mouth before nodding.


    "Skid this ain''t a game and you don''t have any powers, I trust you so don''t get me wrong but-"


    "But you won''t let me have your back!" Jake pushed Ricky a little aggressively as the latter sighed.


    "Listen Skid, calm down you''re overreacting-"


    "I''M OVERREACTING, YOU THINK YOU''RE THE ONLY ONE THAT''S ALLOWED TO FEEL RICKY, THEY WERE MY BROTHERS TOO!" Jake pointed at Ricky who tried to calm him down but it only seemed to add fuel to his fire.


    "ROCCO''S DEAD, EDWARDS IN A COMA, AND NOW MY LAST FRIEND WANTS TO GO FIGHT ALONE, HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO REACT RICKY!" Jake yelled, using his real name which made Ricky facepalm.


    "I JUST-...........I just wish you''d lean on me for things other than paperwork." Jake collapsed against the steering wheel, his head thudding against it.


    Normally coolheaded, he was now overwhelmed by guilt as Ricky wasn''t the only one who felt responsible for not being there for Rocco and Edward.


    "What a loyal comrade you have, young Ricky." Alexander commented, stars shining in his eyes after witnessing the ferocity in Jake.


    "Reminds me of my old comrade, Hephaestion." Alexander nodded, reminiscing in the times of old.


    "Alright fine, but you''ll follow my lead, alright?" Ricky''s words made Jake stand straight up as he opened the door.


    "I promise, I''ll follow your lead Slick." Jake saluted as Ricky rolled his eyes before walking towards the office.


    Walking into the building, eyes immediately locked onto his being since the only time white men came to the office was to cause trouble.


    "May I help ya misters?" An old black woman nervously asked Ricky who flashed her a smile.


    "Hey darling, I have an appointment with Madame St. Clair that I''m late for." Ricky strolled over to the desk, leaning on it with a sleazy smile.


    "I''m sorry sir, but I''ve never heard of no one by that name here." The old woman was clearly lying though it didn''t bother Ricky.


    "Tell her Ricky Luciano is here to see her." Ricky continued as a couple subtle gasps were let out in response.


    "Y-You''re Slick?" The old woman asked incredulously as Ricky nodded, wiping the imaginary dust off his shoulder.


    "The one and only baby, why did you want an autograph?" Ricky joked as the tense atmosphere lightened in an instant after recognizing him.


    "I knew it was you!" A young black man in his twenties hurriedly walked up to them.


    "Willow, this is the cat that reopened the Cotton club and did away with the white only rule!" The man enthusiastically told Willow who stood up urgently.


    "I-I apologize Mr. Luciano, I didn''t mean to offend you-" Willow started profusely apologizing but Ricky grabbed her hands.


    *DING*


    ''No.'' Ricky glanced at the elderly woman, her appearance reflecting the ravages of time as if Father Time himself had struck her face with a bat.


    "Don''t worry about it doll, you were only doing your job just like me." Ricky winked at her as she calmed down in an instant while donning a smile.


    "Right away, Slick." Leotha quickly walked to a bookcase before pulling on a book which revealed another section of the room as she hurriedly walked into it.


    "Nice shindig ya got here." Jake commented since the place was very well put together for a neighborhood with mostly poor quality buildings.


    "Madame had bought the building and fully refurbished it, everyone here in Harlem calls it the ''Safe Haven'' of Harlem since if anyone is in a bind, they can come here." The man eagerly informed Jake though he was mostly telling Ricky who nodded.


    "Thanks?" Ricky asked though in a way that would imply he was asking for his name.


    "Oh right, I''m Dorsey." Dorsey eagerly held out his hand as Ricky shook it.


    "Oh look, it''s a wild troubled white boy." Madame made a sassy comment from the side as Ricky let go of Dorsey and spread his arms outwards.


    "My dear Madame, oh how I missed you~" Ricky smiled, walking over to her yet surprisingly she didn''t push him away and took him into a hug.


    "So cozy." Ricky laid his head on her shoulder as she rolled her eyes while patting his back.


    "I need a favor." Madame shamelessly asked, getting straight to the point while in Ricky''s arms as he let out a quick laugh.


    "You know, there was a sliver of me that actually thought you had finally opened up to me~" Ricky commented as Madame sighed though didn''t break the hug as Ricky finally let go moments later.


    "First, but I need something from you as well." Ricky asked as Madame raised an eyebrow before nodding.


    "Then let''s talk and see if our favors are mutual." Madame gestured for her to follow though stopped Jake.


    "I don''t know you." Madame waved her finger, signaling Jake to stay put as he gazed incredulously at Ricky who shrugged.


    "Ricky, who the hell is this negro broad-"


    "Don''t worry kiddo, the adults won''t take long." Ricky joked, waving him off as he followed Madame into the secret door making Jake sigh.


    "Would you like a glass of water?" Leotha asked and Jake forced a smile.


    "I''d love one."


    5 minutes later,


    "Now that we''re in my office, what do you need from me first?" Madame gestured for Ricky to take the floor, but he remained distracted, his gaze fixed outside her office window.


    "It''s like an underground sweatshop in here." Ricky summed it up in a few words as he surveyed the workshop through the glass.


    Madame employed thirty people officially and seventy more unofficially as she was a good boss who took care of her own, which was why she scoffed at the comparison.


    "What do you want, Slick?" Madame rolled her eyes, leaning her head on her hand.


    "I need to know any information you have on the jewish mob." Ricky said, closing the curtains in the process as Madame stood up.


    "Then my hunch was right, we can both indeed help each other." Madame traced her hand on the table before sitting at the front in an alluring way.


    "Although you said earlier you''d deal with Dutch, he-"


    "Frank is dealing with him but after Edward he''s a little preoccupied in the hospital." Ricky informed, though it only seemed to worsen Madame''s expression.


    "Listen Slick, with Owney gone and the Irish mob being buried by your family, the jews have been trying to move into Harlem." Madame immediately informed Ricky, who responded with a chuckle.


    "You''re joking right? Harlem is Luciano territory now and we would know-"


    "The problem is that they aren''t targeting your assets but the people living in ''your'' territory." Madame informed Ricky, who raised an eyebrow and took a seat directly in front of her, signaling that he wanted to hear more.


    "A high ranking member of the jewish mob, Dutch Schultz, who Frank was supposed to take care of has been sending his goon McGee for collections in the outskirts of Harlem, just a ways outside your control." Madame informed Ricky before massaging his temples.


    "The usual situation happens on the outskirts where McGee comes, demands payment, and if he leaves empty handed then the shop owner just disappears." Madame explained which made Ricky raise an eyebrow.


    "What about that boy toy of yours?" Ricky joked as Madame looked away in shame.


    "I sent him last night to take care of it." Madame closed her eyes as Ricky waited for anything only to be met with a foreboding silence.


    "And what, he got shot or something?" Ricky heartlessly asked but Madame shook her head.


    "Slick, he was found half dead atop a car." Madame bit her lip as Ricky nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Did he get thrown off a building-"


    "Slick, I think this was someone with powers like yourself who did this to him. What do you think?" Madame gave her theory with Ricky raising an eyebrow in contemplation.


    "Maybe." Ricky thought, rubbing his chin, making Madame''s eyebrow twitch.


    "Maybe?" Madame repeated Ricky''s words with a slightly annoyed tone.


    "Care to tell me your thoughts on the matter." Madame asked though was clearly annoyed that Ricky was seemingly trailing off into his own thoughts.


    "Sorry, I''m just wondering how bumpy his fall was to lodge himself into a car." Ricky held back his smile and looked directly at Madame in a serious manner.


    "..." Madame didn''t even humor Ricky and simply stared at him with an emotionless stare.


    *Sigh*


    "My birds have told me that McGee is going to hit up the south side again." Madame shook her head, writing an address on it before handing it to Ricky.


    "Thank you." Ricky snatched the paper and stood up as Madame leaned back on her chair.


    "You''re not funny, Slick." Madame said as Ricky walked out of the room before he started laughing.


    "Not every joke hits Madame, not even if they FALL into your lap!" Ricky yelled as he walked farther away from the office.


    "HE DIDN''T FALL OFF THE BUILDING-you know what, I''m not even gonna humor you." Madame was about to retort until she realized that it would only be a bad idea to do so.


    "Ha, I got the last laugh!"


    *Bam*


    Ricky let out a final laugh while shutting the trick door behind him, making Madame sigh and lean back in her chair.


    "Ohhhhhhh, is it because his name is Bumpy?" Alexander peeped out of Ricky''s shirt pocket after realizing the joke.


    "Well it''s not funny if you explain the joke Alexander." Ricky said to Alexander, lecturing him on joke culture as the gerbil intently nodded along.


    "Who is he talking to?" Dorsey asked Jake who sighed heavily in response to this question.


    "His gerbil." Jake answered the question, following Ricky out of the door only to leave Dorsey standing there even more confused than before.


    "His what?"


    Meanwhile In The Mangano Family Territory,


    "Carlo, as you know, two of our own have been shot in Magano''s territory-" Lucky tried to explain only to hear a slight snort.


    "So?" Carlo leaned back, not caring for his appearance in front of Meyer or even Lucky for that matter.


    "If anything, shouldn''t you be talking with your jew friend over there?" Carlo pointed at Meyer, cracking a smile though Meyer didn''t give into the provocation.


    "I already tried to make peace with them but the jewish mob want''s blood- '''' Lucky continued, maintaining a steady expression.


    *Sigh*


    "You do know what this is, right Lucky?" Carlo leaned forward, flicking the peanut to the side as he interlaced his fingers, facing Lucky with a calm smile.


    "Karma." Carlo immediately confused Lucky who tried to remain professional, but had his blood boiling from the lack of respect from a mere underboss.


    "This is what you get for rubbing shoulders with the folks that aren''t your kind, your blood." Carlo pointed at Lucky as the mob boss rolled his eyes.


    "Meyer is a trusted member of the committee-" Lucky tried to remain professional but his words only made Carlo snap in rage.


    *Bam*


    "Lucky, that vote was bullsh*t and you know it!" Carlo stood up in anger, reopening old wounds as Lucky raised an eyebrow at him.


    "Are you done?" Lucky asked calmly but Carlo started laughing at his response before regaining himself.


    "Yeah I''m done, just like I''m done talking to your smug ass." Carlo turned around and started walking to the door as Lucky stood up.


    "This is between you and the jewish mob, the Magano family permits you to handle the situation but on your own." Carlo sneered at Lucky, walking away while shutting the door behind him with an arrogant deposition.


    *BAM*


    Carlo said exactly what Lucky wanted to hear as the door slammed behind him, only for Meyer to flip the table in a fit of rage.


    "F*cking Gambino-" Meyer angrily seethed, his eyes reddened from the total disrespect not only in front of him, but for Lucky.


    "Calm down Meyer-" Lucky tried to urge him only for Meyer to snap as well.


    "HOW CAN I CALM DOWN!" Meyer yelled at Lucky but quickly composed himself, realizing what he had just done.


    *Huff*


    "I apologize-"


    "It''s okay Meyer, come on." Lucky put his hand around Meyer''s shoulder as they walked towards a door on the opposite side of the hall.


    "We got what we needed to move forward with our plans." Lucky smiled, playing Carlo''s hatred for others against him to get those sweet words of permission that he would twist and twist into his favor.


    "Let''s end this, shall we?"

 Chapter 36: Hunting For A Vampire’s Whereabouts

    Chapter 36: Hunting For A Vampire''s Whereabouts


    "You sure you want to do this?" Mcgee, wearing a suit and a fedora, asked an elderly black man who was gnashing his teeth behind his store''s counter.


    "This is Luciano-"


    "Oh please you coon, the Luciano family don''t care bout you." McGee leaned on the counter, flicking the toothpick from his mouth as the shop keeper ducked his gaze.


    "The jewish mob, on the other hand, will protect you regardless of who you are." McGee smiled as he saw the shopkeeper''s daughter walk in.


    "We can also make an arrangement-" A sleazy smile formed on Mcgee''s face, his eyes tracing all over her body.


    *BAM*


    The door was suddenly kicked open, bursting off its latch and swinging all the way until it collided with the wall it was connected to, revealing Ricky and Jake standing in the doorway.


    "Oh sh*t." McGee''s arrogant smirk morphed into a pale expression as if he''d seen a ghost.


    "You McGee?" Ricky looked around and pointed at McGee who froze in place.


    "That''s him Mr. Slick!" The black shopkeeper quickly ratted McGee out as he received a glare.


    "Damn." McGee whispered, his smile morphing into a frown, while Ricky''s grin spread across his face as he cracked his knuckles.


    "Alright there are two ways this can go-and he''s running." Ricky didn''t even get to say his warning, watching McGee literally turn tail almost immediately.


    "Ah!" The shop keeper''s daughter yelped as McGee pushed her to the side before rushing towards the back.


    "Jake cut him off while I go after him!" Ricky yelled, rushing after McGee, while Jake immediately turned to follow Ricky''s commands.


    McGee burst out a door that led into the back alley, quickly scanning both ways before decisively heading to the right.


    The sound of his dress shoes clicking on the pavement filled the air, his breathing ragged, and sweat dripping down his face as he knew the consequences if he were caught by Ricky.


    Ricky, now fully connected to the underworld, had been slowly integrating into the culture, and was still unaware of his own growing reputation.


    To the Luciano family, he was the prodigal son, consistently delivering immense benefits to their organization.


    However, to others, he was seen as ruthless and bloodthirsty borderline psychopath.


    The infamous ''Great Irish Massacre'' had already raised eyebrows in the underworld, but as secondhand whispers spread, so did the obscenity of the story.


    The original tale, depicting Ricky as impatient, had evolved into a calculated and ruthless version where he had meticulously planned to eradicate the parasite that was draining their profits.


    Ricky''s presence went from being occasionally recognized outside his territory to the point where gang leaders issued notices to their members to be vigilant of his exact description.


    They were warned to spot and notify them if Ricky crossed into their territory, ensuring they didn''t meet the same fate as the Irish mob.


    "Oh McGee~" Ricky hummed, pulling out the rusted axe from his inventory right before he turned the corner to see McGee''s slow figure running away.


    McGee''s worried eyes darted slightly backward, then widened in sheer terror, shaking in such a horrifying manner as they became fixated on the rusted axe in Ricky''s hand.


    "STAY AWAY FROM ME YOU MONSTER!" McGee screeched as his mind had concluded that Ricky was here to chop him up into little pieces and feed him to the fishes.


    "Monster?" Ricky tilted his head while running after McGee, then understood as he remembered the axe.


    "Ohhhhhhhhh, I think you''re confused Mcgee, I only want to break your legs!" Ricky shouted clarifying words as he started to gain ground on McGee''s trial.


    "THAT ISN''T ANY BETTER!" McGee screeched, jerking his head to reprimand Ricky, but his tone faltered as he realized how close Ricky was getting.


    Almost immediately, McGee turned his gaze forward, his whole body flinching as he noticed Jake waiting at the end of the alley as his pace instinctively slowed down.


    Ricky noticed McGee''s hesitation and smiled enthusiastically, wounding up the axe in his hand, quickly turning it to its blunt side mid-air before lunging forward.


    *CRACK*


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" McGee let out a piercing wail as the butt of the axe collided with his knee, shattering it upon impact.


    *BAM*


    However, Ricky greatly underestimated his own strength since the wood holding the axe broke, and along with it, McGee''s knee gave way, unable to bear the force.


    "MY KNEE, MY F*CKING KNEE~" McGee gazed down, his hands shaking as they hovered above his amalgamation of what was supposed to be his knee.


    "Dammit McGee, you broke my axe." Ricky frowned as he picked up the axe head and tried to reconnect it with the broken handle to no avail.


    "Y-YOU''RE CRAZY, THE RUMORS WERE TRUE ABOUT YOU BEING A PSYCHOPATH!" McGee wailed, gripping his knee in slight tears as he directed all of his hate and pain at Ricky.


    "Are you sure it''s wise to yell at the guy who made your left knee into spaghetti?" Jake questioned, and as soon as he did, McGee shut his mouth tight, the pain causing his reasoning to skew in the heat of the moment.


    "Well, usually I''d disagree but up until recently I will admit, I''ve been off my rocker lately." Ricky surprisingly agreed with McGee as he bent down to gaze at him.


    "I mean, would you act crazy when you come back from a date only to find out that one of your closest friends is in a body bag and the other is a crippled?" Ricky grabbed McGee''s collar, his usually calm eyes rippling with unquenched fury.


    "Now, who killed Rocco?" Ricky venomously asked McGee who shook his head back and forth.


    "I swear, I don''t know I-AHHHHHHHHHHH!" McGee tried to deny his words only to have Ricky grab his crushed knee and squeeze.


    McGee let out a tear-jerking screech, his eyes straining under the pain as Ricky''s newfound strength gripped his mangled knee.


    "DON''T YOU F*CKING LIE TO ME MCGEE, I WANT TO KNOW!" Ricky yelled, his lie detection skill paying off as tears started to stream down McGee''s cheek.


    However McGee didn''t have thoughts of confessing even with the immense amount of pain shooting throughout his nervous system.


    *SNIFF*


    *SNIFF*


    Ricky let go as McGee started sniffing and clutching his knee, curled up in defeat while Ricky looked around and spotted a nearby four-story building.


    However as Ricky smiled, he was completely oblivious to a shadowy figure constantly observing his actions.


    "Ricky?" Jake asked after seeing Ricky grabbing McGee''s collar as he started to drag him in a random direction.


    "I think he needs a little more incentive."


    15 minutes later,


    "Please, PLEASE I DON''T KNOW NOTHING!" McGee whined as Ricky and Jake dangled him off the edge of the four-story building Ricky had spotted moments ago.


    "Jake let go." Ricky ordered, and Jake obeyed, letting go so that the only thing holding McGee was Ricky.


    "W-WAIT I-WAIT!" McGee pleaded, dangling farther down towards the distant ground while trying to grab onto Ricky before wincing in pain.


    "If the next words aren''t the ones I want to hear, then I''m letting go, got it?!" Ricky gave McGee an ultimatum forcing McGee to bite his lip until it bled.


    "Alright I''ll talk I''ll-"


    "Those aren''t the ones I wanted to hear-"


    "PEP IS MESSING WITH DRACULA!" McGee yelled out incredulous words as they both scoffed simultaneously.


    McGee wasn''t a captain in the Jewish mob like Dutch, but he was Dutch''s closest aide.


    Since he had been working with Dracual''s Ghouls, he obviously knew about Dracula''s existence within the mob.


    "Dracula? The vampire from Transylvania Dracula?" Jake asked with a weird expression however Ricky''s face contorted.


    "He''s telling the truth." Ricky said in a somewhat baffled tone as Jake gazed incredulously at him.


    "Slick you can''t actually believe this garbanzo can you-"


    "I swear upon my mothers soul what I''m telling you is the truth, he even sent Dutch his minions which he calls ''Ghouls'' to assist in collections and the mining- '''' McGee was about to finish the sentence until his body started to convulse.


    Then without warning, blood immediately burst from McGee''s eyes, ears, nose, and mouth until his whole body started to swell up.


    Ricky, sensing the imminent danger from his new skill, instinctively let go and released McGee.


    McGee''s body began to fall, but instead of a normal descent, it swelled up like a balloon, his once-white skin reddening under the strain.


    The swelling was grotesque, with McGee''s skin stretching unnaturally as the pressure inside built up, his eyes looking as if they would pop out of his head at any moment.


    *BOOM*


    *SPLAT*


    In the next second, McGee''s body erupted into an ear curdling explosion of blood and flesh.


    The force of the blast sent chunks of his mangled remains hurtling across the four-story building and onto the nearby street.


    The air was filled with a pungent sickening spray of crimson and flesh, as McGee''s blood coated the building''s facade and the pavement below in a grim, viscous layer.


    Shreds of his skin, muscle, and bone rained down like macabre confetti, splattering the surroundings with a nauseating, splattered pattern.


    The once-pristine street was now a grisly canvas, smeared with the remnants of McGee''s violent end, leaving a horrific scene that made the very air seem to tremble in the aftermath.


    "..."


    "..."


    Both Ricky and Jake gazed down with blank expressions at the mind-boggling scene that had unfolded mere seconds ago.


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    "BLERGH!" Jake immediately vomited over the side of the building, while Ricky began to dry heave beside him.


    "WHAT THE-BLERGH!" Jake tried to curse, only to vomit again, while Ricky struggled to keep his breakfast down.


    The only saving grace that sickened Ricky to his core was that he had experienced something even worse in his youth, which helped him process the grotesque affair before him unlike Jake.


    "Oh god, I''m gonna be sick." Ricky bent over, placing his hands on his knees as he tried to steady himself, seeking any semblance of support.


    It took the both of them a couple minutes to recover after witnessing a man explode into mush before finally regaining their breath.


    "Self destruction spell." A rugged voice called out from a distance, and Ricky turned to see an old man shaking his head while leaning on the door frame.


    Ricky didn''t hesitate to pull out his gun and point it at the mysterious man who raised both hands nonchalantly.


    "Did you do that!" Jake yelled, wiping his mouth while still unable to recover mentally from the horrid events.


    "Do I look like a vampire to you?" The man pointed to himself though Ricky gave him a dumb look.


    "How are we supposed to know what a vampire looks like if we''ve never seen one before?" Ricky asked, his tone implying that the old man might be going senile.


    "I-" The man raised a finger only to rub his chin since Ricky''s words made a little sense.


    "Do you know this numbskull, Slick?" Jake wiped his mouth, pointing at this weird old man.


    "Maybe it''s some senile old man who''s lost or something." Ricky turned to Jake who widened his eyes in realization.


    Although Jake wasn''t Italian, his culture still heavily respected the elderly meaning he felt a little guilty.


    "I''m sorry sir, do you need help finding your family-" Jake flipped his expression into a kind smile while walking to the old man who''s eyebrow was constantly twitching.


    "I''M NOT-"


    *SIGH*


    The old man with lamb chops grabbed his head, shaking it in exasperation before taking a deep breath.


    "Listen. My name is Abrham Van Helsing, vampire hunter extraordinaire and this isn''t something gangsters like you two can handle so I''m here to give you a warning." Abraham walked forward as Jake turned to Ricky who lightly nodded his head.


    "He''s telling the truth." Ricky whispered to Jake who became even more baffled at the name.


    "By the way, have we ever met before?" Abraham asked Ricky who raised an eyebrow though shook his head.


    "I don''t think so-"


    "Wait, wait, wait, Van Helsing? Like the family cursed to hunt down Dracula?" Jake waved his hand dismissively, prompting Ricky to raise an eyebrow in curiosity.


    "How do you know so much about Dracula?" Ricky frowned as Jake scoffed, crossing his arms while showing a disgruntled expression.


    "A guy can''t read classic literature?" Jake turned back to Abraham who had a huge scowl on his face.


    "So is the story real?" Ricky turned to a clearly angered Abraham who scratched his lamb chops.


    "Parts of it, the part about my family hunting Dracula and being trapped in purgatory is true, along with the existence of vampires however the ending about him being dead hasn''t come true yet." Abraham shook his head with a light sigh.


    "I swear, one hunting trip to Ireland, I got so drunk that I only found out a month later I''d spilled my entire backstory to some random author." Abraham was clearly upset by this anomaly, while Ricky regarded him with a look of understanding, having done the same before and finding some sympathy with another drunkard..


    "Anyways, both of you need to just do what you gangsters do here and scram, this world ain''t meant for normies like you." Abraham waved his hand until a hand grabbed his shoulder.


    "Honestly, if this didn''t involve us then I''d let it be, but it''s personal." Ricky grabbed Abraham''s shoulder as the old man let out a disgruntled sigh.


    "Fine I''ll let you help-" Abraham seemed to agree readily until he reached into his trench coat.


    ''!'' Time seemed to slow down as Ricky saw Abraham''s nonchalant expression, though his mind was blaring warning signals.


    *Crack*


    Abraham cracked a mysterious blue vial in his hands, waving the smoke into the air as his hands began to shine.


    "¦´¦Ð¦Í¦Ï?!" Abraham''s tongue uttered words of a dead language, his hand aglow with a pale green light, causing Ricky''s eyes to widen in astonishment.


    ''Full counter!'' Ricky didn''t even hesitate as his senses drove him to counter the spell as a green light was shot at him, waving his gun at it instinctively.


    Then to the horror of Abraham, the green spell bounced off an invisible force field before doubling in power in the next second.


    *Thump*


    A green light shot into Abraham''s body, instantly causing his consciousness to blacken as his body crumpled limply to the pavement.


    "....." For the second time today, Ricky and Jake stood in stunned silence as they slowly looked at each other, then back at Abraham''s unconscious body.


    "Is he-.....is he dead?" Jake asked tentatively and Ricky bent down, checking his old pulse.


    Then, Abraham let out the loudest snore, causing Ricky to instinctively cock his fist back and deliver a punch to his jaw.


    *BAM*


    The unconscious Abraham absorbed the punch, while Jake flinched at the sudden brutality and Ricky froze in place.


    "Did you just-" Jake showed a weird expression, looking at Ricky who acted on instinct once again.


    "He started it." Ricky pointed to the side, blaming the entire thing on the unconscious Abraham before Jake pinched the bridge of his nose while shaking his head.


    "What do we do now?" Jake asked, walking over to the snoring Abraham as Ricky started patting him down.


    "I guess tie him with this?" Ricky raised the rope that Abraham so conveniently had on his person.


    1 hour later,


    "Urgh." Abraham let out an elderly grunt, smacking his dry lips before his eyelids eventually flickered open.


    "Dammit Slick, I know you''re cheating!" Jake slammed the cards from Ricky''s system onto the floor as the latter snickered after becoming twenty dollars richer.


    "Prove it." Ricky''s cheesy excuse, one he had been using ever since he got the cards all those years ago, slipped out again making Jake scoff at the deja vu, watching as a confused Abraham curiously looked at Ricky.


    "What are you-WHAT!" Abraham didn''t understand what had happened until the events replayed in his head before realizing he was tied up by his own whims.


    "If you''re about to reach for all your knick knacks, know that we already patted you down and took all your stuff." Ricky pointed to the side as Abraham''s angered eyes became furious at the countless items he stashed all around his body being laid out before him on the roof.


    "You!"


    "Me?"


    "Yes you, how did you do that!" Abraham first needed to quench his curiosity as Ricky looked at Jake.


    "Does he not realize that he''s the one tied up and defenseless right now?" Ricky asked Jake who rubbed his chin in contemplation.


    "I think he''s still reeling himself back from the past excitement." Jake concluded as Abraham''s expression became plain.


    "Untie me." Abraham grunted though Ricky immediately shook his head before picking up a weird religious vial of water.


    "How long have you been watching us?" Ricky asked a question while inspecting the water vial.


    "H-Hey be careful with that!" Abraham anxiously reprimanded Ricky, the latter showing a sly smile.


    Grabbing the five vials that were almost identical to it, Ricky walked over to the edge as Abraham''s eyes widened.


    "DON''T YOU-"


    "How long have you been watching us?" Ricky asked again, this time adding a little more motivation by holding the vials precariously above the pavement.


    Abraham gritted his teeth, his nervous eyes trailing over to the vials he had obtained specifically to kill that bastard Dracula.


    These vials were filled with holy water, but not just any holy water, special holy water blessed on a full moon for the last hundred years by thirteen different popes over the course of decades.


    Only thirteen vials had ever been made, and Abraham had managed to get his hands on five of them, the five explicit ones in his hand.


    Due to their purity, these vials were nicknamed the ''Tears of Mother Mary,'' granting anyone who used them the power of her divine purity for a certain period of time.


    "Be careful-dammit, fine!" Abraham''s usual gruff poker face was nowhere to be seen; those vials were more important than his dignity.


    "How long."


    "When both of you ruffan''s started beating on that scum in the alley." Abraham confessed with a slight sigh, proning Ricky to nod his head.


    "Do you know who made McGee pop like a balloon?" Ricky asked and once again, Abraham nodded to his words.


    "It was obviously a vampire who had used a type of blood magic that makes a human''s blood akin to a bomb and self-destructs the body." Abraham easily said as Jake looked like he was going to be sick again.


    "And this Dracula is capable of doing whatever that was?" Ricky asked which Abraham scoffed as if it was obvious.


    "Dracula is a monster that has been practicing the arcane for centuries, of course he can do something as simple as this to a mortal human with no magical defenses." Abraham nonchalantly leaned back on the wall though started to slowly dislocate his wrist.


    "So why did Dracula explode McGee." Ricky frowned, unknowingly beginning to unravel the secret powers that would plunge him into the vast ocean of the abyss of power, far beyond the tiny, secluded pond he had been confined to as of now.


    Ricky understood that if people like him with powers existed, the confirmation of the supernatural''s existence meant his life was about to get ten times more annoying.


    "He didn''t." Abraham suddenly denied, causing Ricky to frown since he wasn''t lying.


    "But you said-"


    "The vamp that''s in new york is a fraud and wasted my f*cking time." Abraham scoffed while Jake crossed his arms.


    "But McGee said-" Jake tried to chim in only to recieve a scowl from Abraham.


    "Listen dumbass, you think that I, Abraham van Helsing, a man who has been chained to the fate of hunting Draucla wouldn''t know what his patterns are?" Abraham''s tone was vicious, and it seemed he was targeting Jake on purpose while Jake''s brows suddenly scrunched in confusion and concern.


    "Hell, I even know what his favorite blood preference is. I know everything about that monster and because of that, I know for certain that this vampire is impersonating him." Abraham snarled at Jake who squinted his eyes while Ricky chuckled.


    "Well, could you humor us on your reasoning then?" Ricky asked curiously as Abraham sighed.


    "It''s simple, really. Dracula is a very narcissistic and arrogant individual. He''s spent his extensive life at the top of his species, and that arrogance extends to how he manages his underlings." Abraham rolled his eyes at Jake before looking at Ricky who stopped hanging the vials off the ledge much to his relief.


    "Not once have I ever heard of Dracula having an underling or subordinate that wasn''t considered a ''noble'' vampire, meaning, he wouldn''t personally send out Ghouls to do his dirty work but order a high ranking vampire to order ghouls for him, he''s pretentious like that." Abraham''s words were a little nonsensical but from Abraham''s observations it was the complete truth.


    "So when that Mcgee guy or whatever his name is, said that Dracula himself ordered his ghouls to help him, I knew he was a fraud" Abraham sighed, gazing up at the sky, realizing he had wasted his time here.


    For Ricky and Jake, the reasoning seemed outlandish and hard to grasp, but for Abraham, it made complete and perfect sense.


    Dracula was a being who thrived on the lavish feast of superiority; everything he did was for his own betterment.


    The way he spoke, presented himself, and executed his role as the king of vampires was all driven by his inner need to be the best and the most powerful of them all.


    Consequently, Dracula would never allow a mere ghoul, a barbaric creature that preyed on flesh, to be one of his direct pawns as it would stain his well maintained image.


    Instead, such creatures were relegated to serving as pawns for his direct subordinates, who were the true pieces in his game.


    "This Dracula seems like a mighty foe." Alexander commented from Ricky''s shirt pocket as Abraham raised his eyebrow at the random Gerbil popping up from nowhere.


    "But what if he had other vampires come here-" Jake was about to chim in only to be interrupted by a single scoff.


    "There aren''t any other vampires here jackass, I''ve checked, that''s why I''m so sure that this vamp isn''t Dracula!!" Abraham snarled at Jake who frowned at this old man''s hatefulness seemingly directed at him.


    "Then do you have any ideas on where this fake might be?" Ricky asked, and Abraham burst into laughter at the ridiculousness of the question, which finally made Jake lose his patience.


    "Listen bub, I don''t think you understand-ARCK!" Jake stomped his way over to Abraham, who suddenly broke free from his restraints and used his whip that was hidden in his underpants to wrap around Jake''s neck.


    The whole time, Abraham hadn''t been targeting Jake without reason as he knew that the other one, Ricky, had a mysterious power that reflected his magic which is why he relentlessly barraged Jake, aiming to draw Jake closer to assess the situation more clearly with Ricky.


    "Jake!" Ricky yelled out, but Abraham had already pulled Jake towards him, using him as a human shield just as Ricky drew his gun.


    Plucking out one of his teeth, it revealed a fake tooth as he undid the upper cap to reveal it to be a prickly needle.


    "One move and I cut his jugular." Abraham warned, placing the needle directly at the center of Jake''s jugular as he undid the whip''s bindings from his neck.


    "Slick, don''t worry I can take it, shoot him!" Jake yelled as Abraham scoffed at this while Ricky squinted his eyes.


    *Click*


    Ricky clicked the revolver and aimed, while Jake braced himself for the pain as Abraham let out a small laugh, thinking it was all just an act.


    "Listen Slick is it? Do you think I wouldn''t know how to kill a man-" Abraham didn''t think Ricky had the balls, but Ricky nodded to Jake, who subtly nodded back.


    *BANG*


    "ARGH!" Jake and Abraham both let out pained wails, causing Abraham to release his hold on Jake.


    ''Thank you Marksmanship.'' Ricky internally thanked his own skill as he walked over to Abraham gripping his shoulder.


    "You psychopath, you actually shot your friend to shoot me!" Abraham yelled out in pain, his voice filled with frustration, as Ricky and Jake erupted in laughter.


    "Damn right you f*cking foggy!" Jake laughed out before wincing in pain as he held his shoulder.


    *Click*


    Strolling up to Abraham, Ricky pressed the barrel of his gun firmly against the old man''s temple while Abraham clutched his continuously bleeding shoulder.


    "Now, where is that imposter?"

 Chapter 37: Ricky’s Gambit

    Chapter 37: Ricky''s Gambit


    At Dusk,


    "This is the place you were going to head to right?" Ricky pointed at an abandoned warehouse, causing Abraham to scrunch his eyebrows in suspicion.


    After administering basic medical treatment, Ricky meticulously checked Abraham''s bindings, ensuring they were secure.


    He encased him as one would a psychiatric patient, restraining him to prevent any hostile actions.


    "Yeah that''s the place I was going to go to after interrogating the meat paste that is McGee, but you idiots got to him first." Abraham said as a now permanent scowl remained on his face.


    "And what''s up with the arrows?" Abraham asked, not understanding why Ricky needed to go around town to find some arrows.


    "Because." Ricky answered though didn''t give a single reason behind it.


    "Hey old man, be honest with me, do you think I''m strong enough to take on whoever this imposter is-" Ricky actually asked first, surprising Jake who gave him a weird expression.


    "No." Abraham interrupted Ricky, bluntly telling him he wasn''t strong enough to go against a high ranking vampire.


    "But you haven''t even-" Ricky continued since this old man hadn''t even seen his mutant power but Abraham was firm in his stance.


    "Trust me kid, you''re not strong enough nor smart enough." Abraham had witnessed Ricky''s strange power, but the vampire class were known strategists in the supernatural world.


    Seeing how reckless Ricky was first hand, Abraham felt he was doing the kid a favor by intervening rather than him going in there and being absolutely dissected.


    Ricky leaned back after this, confident in his own strength but understandably confused as to how strong a vampire even would be, until he gazed to the side to see Jake''s dumbfounded expression.


    "What?" Ricky asked, confused at the slack jawed expression of Jake.


    "It''s just that, I thought you were going to go straight in there once we got here, not actually think about it and god forbid actually plan it out beforehand.''''Jake replied, his mind racing as he considered Ricky''s usual gung-ho attitude.


    It made him wary, a creeping suspicion gnawing at him about what spontaneous thing Ricky was going to do to tip the balance back into his reckless behavior.


    "Well, I was going too until McGee popped like a f*cking balloon." Ricky answered back, but Jake was still a little shocked.


    "Then do you have some sort of plan?" Jake asked, knowing that they drove all the way out here so Ricky had to be onto something.


    "Hold that thought." Ricky held up a finger, turning back towards the tied up Abraham who was still scowling at him.


    "That vampire isn''t here, right?" Ricky asked the hateful Abraham who leaned back and closed his eyes.


    "God, smite me down now, f*cking please." Abraham closed his eyes, waiting for an ethereal bolt of lighting to strike him down so he wouldn''t have to be interrogated by this idiot.


    *SIGH*


    "No, he''s cooped up in the jewish mob''s territory, which is why I was going for his human pawns, ONLY FOR YOU TO BLOW HIM UP LIKE A BALLOON YOU AMATEURS!" Abraham''s voice steadily rose until he lost his cool and shouted at Ricky for killing the person he was going to interrogate.


    "Whose fault is that though?" Ricky asked only for Abraham to show a dumbfounded expression until it morphed back into a rageful one.


    "YOURS YOU F*CKING IDIOT!" Abraham yelled at Ricky who frowned, deciding whether to react on his impulse or not.


    *Bam*


    "F*ck~" Abraham''s head recoiled back, Ricky punching him in the nose but the latter shrugged.


    "I mean if we''re talking idiots, what dumbass yells at his mobster captors?" Ricky looked at Jake for approval to which he nodded since it seemed pretty reasonable to him.


    "Alright, I''m going to go check out this warehouse and see what the hell we''re up against-wait, old man do you think I could take a ghoul?" Ricky was about to go in until he looked over at Abraham who was reeling in from being punched in the nose.


    *Sigh*


    "I don''t know, maybe?" Abraham looked at Ricky who knew it was his honest answer as the latter nodded.


    "Jake, you stay here and guard the old man." Ricky patted Jake''s shoulder which made him flinch.


    "Really Slick?" Jake frowned as Ricky let out a nervous chuckle as he had forgotten about shooting him.


    "Fine, but don''t go in there and just die or I''m going to slap your ghost." Jake leaned back, popping two painkillers while warning him.


    Nodding, Ricky got out of the car and started tiptoeing toward the warehouse as almost immediately, he heard the sounds of whips and the whimpers of men.


    Raising an eyebrow, he took out his trusty gravity shoes and scaled up the side of the building before carefully climbing up to a nearby window and his eyes widened in shock.


    Amidst the dimly lit interior, Ricky witnessed a weird sight: monstrous creatures, presumably ghouls, whipping humans like slaves.


    These humans were the Harlem residents that were kidnapped, mixed with others abducted by the Jewish mob for this purpose.


    These pseudo-slaves were seemingly digging out the inside of the warehouse, creating a crater with their relentless manual labor.


    ''What the hell?'' Ricky thought as he peered his gaze deeper to see an actual human yelling out one of these ghouls.


    "WHAT DO YOU MEAN MCGEE EXPLODED!" Dutch roared at the ghoul who gave him a snarl but held itself back from squashing the puny man''s head.


    "The blood bag had been compromised, Dracula doesn''t permit traitors." The ghouls husky voice rang out.


    "Are you calling my boy McGee a rat!" Dutch screamed at the ghoul who closed its eyes before unmasking its killing intent.


    "And what if I am?" The ghoul snarled, his mere presence cauing Dutch''s whole body started to convulse in fear as he stepped back.


    "I-I-I-I see." Dutch wasn''t able to overpower his inner insect as he bowed down to the ghoul.


    "We need more blood bags to dig out the area." The ghoul then followed it up as Dutch raised his head.


    "Well McGee usually contacts me about those negro-"


    "It doesn''t matter what blood bags you get, go fetch." The ghoul waved the whip in its hand as the other ghouls started laughing at Dutch.


    Dutch ducked his head to hide his furious expression, blood slowly seeping from his closed fist as he forcefully dug his nails into his palms from the humiliation.


    "Then could you lend me-"


    "Useless, your whole species is entirely useless." The ghoul continued to humiliate Dutch as the ghoul gestured to two of his comrades who nodded.


    "Ricky, let us use this chance to slay the horrid beasts that split from their ranks." Alexander whispered to Ricky who squinted his eyes.


    "You think I could pick them off one by one?" Ricky asked Alexander who confidently gazed at him then nodded.


    "I do."


    Stepping down from the stool he was standing on, he gazed at the trinkets he obtained from Abraham which after ''borrowing'' from his vampiric slaying tools, he possessed four items.


    One of the daggers of Tel Megiddo, a bottle of lesser holy water, a crossbow, and the cross necklace he got from the system.


    Peering from the side, he saw Dutch walking in front of two ghouls as he led them over to a large ban.


    "I''m serious, let me go, that friend of yours is going to get himself killed." Abraham insisted but Jake shook his head while gripping a tommy gun.


    "He''ll be fine, he''s a touch cracker."


    Trailing the three figures, Ricky followed them into a crevice between two buildings.


    Sneaking in after them, he watched as Dutch opened the van, only to be met with the disgruntled sighs of the ghouls inside.


    "Why must we get into your smelly van?" One of the ghouls asked as the other hunched down even more.


    "We are as fast as this van-" The other ghoul complained as well, only for Dutch to snap.


    "IF ANYONE SEES YOU FREAKS THEN YOU''LL ONLY STIR UP MORE TROUBLE FOR ME!" Dutch screeched as he let out his anger onto the ghouls whose expression immediately eclipsed into an unforgiving one.


    "Watch your words weak bloodbag-SCREEEEEEEEEEE!" The ghoul let out as it gazed down to see a crossbow bolt impaling into its chest.


    "Dammit." Ricky cursed from behind them as all three of their gazes turned to them only to see him reloading the crossbow.


    His finger gripped the trigger as the bolt launched towards the ghouls heart as it finally reached its intended destination.


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEEE!" The ghoul, caught off guard, had its heart impaled with a bolt covered in holy water as it slowly started turning into ash.


    "YOU VERMIN!" The other ghoul screeched as it disappeared in place as Ricky widened his eyebrows.


    *DINK*


    "What is this!" The ghoul yelled as it appeared behind Ricky only two seconds later though his barrier repelled his attack.


    "THE FOE IS BEFORE YOU YOUNG RICKY, USE THIS CHANCE!" Alexander quickly pushed Ricky forward as the latter started to reload the bolt.


    "F*ck it." Ricky threw the crossbolt to the side before pulling out his revolver and the vial of holy water.


    As the ghoul beat on his psionic barrier, he undid the cylinder holding his bullets before popping the lid off the vial as he dumped it all on the loaded bullets.


    "You''re a fool-" The ghoul laughed at this human''s foolishness, watching him seemingly waste all his holy water.


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEE!" The ghouls started screeching as once it halted its attacks, Ricky started unloading his bullets into the ghoul.


    Its body jerked backwards at every bullet piercing its unholy being before it could no longer take the strain as it started turning into dust.


    The ghouls in the warehouse all jerked their heads at the sound of their kin dying as the lead ghoul squinted his eyes.


    "Rotclaw, Grimnose, go check the disturbance." The head ghoul ordered as the two dropped their whips and both disappeared towards the commotion.


    "NOW QUICKLY FADE INTO THE SHADOWS AND PICK OFF THE ONES THEY SEND TO CHECK THE NOISE!" Alexander gave out the next instructions as Ricky showed a baffled expression.


    "W-WHAT DO YOU MEAN FADE INTO THE SHADOWS!" Ricky yelled at Alexander who gave him a weird look.


    "To make your presence so shallow that it sinks into the shadows allowing you to blend into the darkness? What are they teaching the younger generations these days?" Alexander shook his head at the travesty as Ricky scoffed.


    "What the f*ck are you talking about?" Ricky looked at Alexander with a baffled expression only to look at the nearby wall.


    "Screw it, plan b." Ricky muttered, deciding to simply climb up the side with his gravity shoes.


    Ricky started running up the wall only for two figures to appear in the alleyway with Dutch raising up his hands and falling to his knees, showing he would corporate.


    "It was you!" Rotclaw caught Ricky redhanded, its white eyes glaring at the human who was trying to make his daring escape.


    "Gross." Ricky frowned in disgust at the ugly appearance of Rotclaw as his own rotten flesh hung from his body.


    "I smell Van helsing on him." Grimnose sniffed, his face contorting into a foul grin as Rotclaw''s angry expression became livid.


    "I shall eat your flesh slowly!" Rotclaw screeched, lunging forward with his sharp rusted claws pointed at Ricky.


    *CRASH*


    Ricky leaped backwards, Rotclaw''s force slashing into the nearby wall that completely turned it into rubble.


    Widening his eyes at this supernatural strength, Rotclaw drooling rotten face jerked towards Ricky before morphing into a vicious smile.


    Pouncing forward, right as he was about to near Ricky''s flesh, his body bounced off of an invisible shield.


    *DINK*


    "Huh?" Rotclaw''s face planted into the forcefield, taken aback at the mystic shield conjured before him.


    *Click*


    "You were saying?" Ricky saw Rotclaw bounce off his mental shield as he let it down, laughing at this and clicking his revolver.


    *BANG*


    The bullet plunged right through his festering flesh as Rotclaw let out a pained screech as the wound slowly spread throughout his entire body before turning him into ash.


    Ricky''s head flared as he activated his shield as Grimnose used all his might to attack Ricky''s flank which made him flinch a little.


    The strength of the barrier stemmed from Ricky''s mind, channeling all his effort and strain into maintaining it as he aimed the gun at Grimnose.


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEEEE!" Grimnose screeched as he slowly turned into ash as Ricky wiped a sweat drop from his forehead.


    "Dammit, I''m almost out of bullets-"


    "A powered bloodbag, amusing."


    "!" Ricky''s eyes widened to see a long and nimble ghoul standing at the end of the alleyway, its form towering over the others yet hunched all the same.


    However, what truly made Ricky grasp the gravity of his situation was when he saw similar creatures perching on the sides of the alleyway.


    As he counted, he realized there were at least twenty of them, all grouped together, watching him intently.


    "Ricky, this battle demands either a final charge or a cowardly retreat." Alexander whispered to Ricky from his pocket as his eyebrow twitched.


    ''1, 4, 6, 7, 9, 15, 17, 23, 24, 26.'' Ricky inwardly counted all the ghouls in the area.


    "God dammit Alexander, you totally f*cked us." Ricky whispered urgent slurs to his gerbil who held up his paws.


    "I refuse any accountability, it is not my fault you couldn''t fade into the shadows." Alexander was even more stubborn than Ricky who gnashed his teeth.


    ''Chester, I need your help!'' Ricky literally screamed in his head at Chester, who was peacefully lying in his nest.


    The very same nest where Chester had just found a comfortable spot, only to flinch upwards and stand with eagerness before flying toward his summoner.


    Ricky found himself in an unusual predicament as although he navigated the supernatural realm with relative ease, he was up against creatures whose sole reliance was on brute physical strength.


    The challenge he faced wasn''t about enduring the onslaught since he was more than capable of withstanding their attacks.


    The real issue was whether or not his firepower was enough to confront them simultaneously.


    Sheathing his gun, Ricky took out the solarflare bow from his inventory along with a crude arrow he had scavenged multiple stores for.


    Ricky had garnered two weapons from the system, one was a one off item in the form of the aqua serpent staff while his other lay in this bow.


    "Young Ricky, have you ever drawn a bow before?" Alexander asked, seeing his sloppy posture as Ricky shooed him off.


    "Kind of." Ricky gave a vague answer since he didn''t know whether or not he wanted to admit that he was a total novice and have Alexander reprimand him.


    "Bloodbag, surrender and I won''t eat your flesh while you''re still breathing." The head ghoul smiled warmly, his teeth all pointed as his gums were all rotten.


    "Can I think about it?" Ricky asked as he pulled the arrow back on the bowstring only for the head ghoul to chuckle.


    "No."


    Just then, Ricky fired his bow that suddenly exploded in flames, sloppy barreling towards the head ghoul.


    *BAM*


    The head ghoul didn''t even care to dodge it, punching the arrow with all of its strength as it suddenly exploded.


    "SCREEEEEEEE!" The two lesser ghouls beside him screeched in agony, their frail forms struggling to endure the searing flames.


    With a furious snarl, the head ghoul lashed out, sending them sprawling aside as if more upset with their weakness than Ricky''s attack.


    "Do not converge on the human, go back to the blood bags and continue the mining." The head ghoul commanded the surrounding ghouls, who outnumbered him, to retreat abruptly, causing them to vanish backward in a chaotic, sudden movement.


    "And they call me arrogant." Ricky commented by the side, taking out another arrow while looking towards Dutch on his knees in fear.


    "I am Nexor, and may I have the name of you, mutant?" Nexor bowed, his manner and posture civilized despite his grotesque form.


    "Uh, no." Ricky shot Nexor a skeptical look, thinking it absurd to give his name to this ghoul.


    "I understand how-"


    *BOOM*


    Ricky cut Nexor off mid-sentence, firing an arrow directly at his chest as the projectile exploded mid-air, showering the area with debris before it could even reach the ghoul.


    As the smoke began to clear, Nexor stepped forward, emerging from the haze with a casual shake of his head.


    "Must we engage in this charade? You are clearly a mere ant compared to me." Nexor asked genuinely.


    Ricky frowned at the comment but glanced sideways to see Dutch''s fearful expression, reconsidering his approach.


    ''I might actually need him,'' Ricky thought, contemplating a strategic retreat and yet, as he looked back at Nexor, he decided against it.


    ''Forget it. I''m fighting him,'' Ricky resolved, turning his focus back to Nexor, who rolled his eyes, already anticipating Ricky''s next move.


    "Alexander, get into my pocket. It''s going to get bumpy," Ricky whispered to his gerbil, who, though confused, scurried into his pocket.


    Wrapping his force field around his entire body, Ricky concentrated, feeling the entire effort of his mind in the task.


    His body sprang upwards as the psionic force field formed a hollow, dome-like cushion around him.


    This field not only lifted him off the ground but also acted as a means of propulsion. By adjusting its shape and direction, Ricky generated the necessary thrust to propel himself through the air with precision and speed.


    Though he hadn''t fully mastered the maneuver, the force field was primarily his escape mechanism.


    Reaching the edge of the rooftop, Ricky was surprised to see Nexor''s body suddenly vanish, leaving him momentarily confused as he drew another arrow.


    "Amusing. So this is how you eliminated the ghouls under my command," Nexor''s voice came from across the alley, where he sat casually on the opposite ledge, a smirk on his face.


    *BOOM*


    Ricky fired another arrow, but Nexor boredly swatted it away with a pale green light coating his hands.


    *Dink*


    "So it can act as a force field as well, most interesting." Nexor remarked, throwing a pebble at Ricky at supersonic speeds as his barrier went up instantly, while the ghoul studied him closely.


    "Young Ricky, the enemy is toying with you, studying your every move. This is not a fight you can win," Alexander squeaked from Ricky''s pocket, trying to offer advice while Ricky clenched his teeth.


    "Are you ready to talk now, knowing that whatever you do will be futile against me?" Nexor gestured dismissively across the alley, treating the confrontation as a mere formality.


    "I''m not going to be your food." Ricky replied, his expression set in determination.


    "Very well." Nexor appeared right behind Ricky, a thoughtful expression on his face.


    To Ricky''s horror, he turned his head back to a wound up fist, and brought it crashing down onto Ricky forcefield with devastating force.


    *BAM*


    *BOOM*


    Ricky attempted to block the punch with his barrier, hoping the psionic force field would shield him from the impact.


    The barrier initially held, but Nexor relentlessly channeled more power into his attack.


    The increased force caused the dome-shaped shield around Ricky to buckle and distort and with a violent jerk, Nexor''s strike managed to propel the dome that held Ricky downward, sending him crashing into the alleyway below.


    Dust suddenly spread throughout the alley, Dutch cowering at the force while slamming into the van.


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    Ricky began coughing up small droplets of blood, his body reeling from the strain due to the overwhelming force.


    Blood trickled from his nose and ears as his mind in the aftermath, Ricky never experiencing such pure physical power before as it caught him completely off guard.


    "Little mutant, now that you can listen, consider my words carefully." Nexor perched from the side of the building he had utterly decimated Ricky from.


    Ricky looked at the transparent blue screen in a haze, huffing out defeated breaths before the solarflare blow returned to his inventory.


    Ricky had several options for retreating, though some were admittedly reckless.


    One method involved slipping into his storage space, providing a secure escape while another option was to use the Aqua Serpent staff to create a diversion and slip away unnoticed.


    However, Ricky''s priority was to take Dutch with him.


    Despite knowing that running away might seem selfish, Ricky was acutely aware of his responsibility to the Luciano family.


    If he could extract valuable information from Dutch, he might still salvage the situation with his last and final card.


    "Your mortal form will never compare to our undead form, join me and together-"


    "That''s it." Ricky groaned out, wiping his nose before pulling out a mysterious object that made Nexor sigh.


    "I didn''t want to use this but you left me no choice." Ricky showed a confident demeanor, cracking his neck while Nexor let out a amused chuckle


    "Foolish mutant-" Nexor scoffed at this ploy, anticipating one last desperate attack, but before he could act, Ricky interrupted him.


    "Don''t make any sudden moves or else I''ll unleash it!" Ricky suddenly pulled out the most mystical card to ever grace humanity.


    Blue Eyes White Dragon.


    The very same card that struck a feeling into his undead heart, the very same feeling he hadn''t felt from another since he had been turned, fear.


    An uncontrollable fear that made his ghoulish instincts scream as he gazed at the terrifying cover of this hellish card.


    "W-What is that holy object!" Nexor demanded an answer, his eyes narrowing as he immediately assumed that the card must be a holy object.


    The primordial fear resonating within him only reinforced his suspicion since most ghouls lacked some sensations from being turned, only experiencing genuine feelings of fear in the presence of a holy object or their masters.


    "Oh, you don''t know?" Ricky bluffed, forcing an arrogant smirk on his face as he played into his own rabbit hole of nonsense.


    "It is an existence that God himself crafted from the undertones of purity itself, a being that cleanses angels and would even forgive Satan as he crucified him." Ricky bluffed even harder as he slowly backed up towards the van.


    "Blue Eyes White Dragon!" Ricky shouted his name which made Nexor actually take a step back in fear.


    The one thing that both ghouls and vampires despised was being caught off guard, thrust into unpredictable situations where Ricky thrived.


    "Now, if you force me to use this one time summon, then you will perish under your own sins or, you can delay your heaven defying meeting for later." Ricky slowly took a step back before bumping into the petrified Dutch as he grabbed his collar.


    "Get into the van you pudgy bastard." Ricky whispered as Dutch flinched though still didn''t dare to move.


    *Click*


    "I got one bullet left and it''s about to have your name on it if you continue to ignore me." Ricky whispered to the side, Dutch bit his lip but slowly crawled into the van as Ricky followed as he stood inside of it.


    "You''re bluffing." Nexor gritted his teeth, his fear of the card sending shivers through his corpse-like form, a sensation he had only felt before in the presence of his master.


    "Maybe I am, but can you really afford to test that?" Ricky asked but internally he was screaming.


    ''Take the bait, Take the bait! TAKE THE BAIT-"


    "You''ll regret this bloodbag." The ghoul leader snarled as Ricky scoffed while screaming internally.


    ''AHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!''


    "You don''t scare me." Ricky smirked as the van turned on before Dutch hit the gas as Nexor cowardly watched the human drive away.


    *BAM*


    Nexor wanted to pursue the human, but the mining site was far too critical to abandon since they were so close.


    The potential threat to his own life could also jeopardize his master''s plans as he reluctantly turned back and returned to the warehouse with the other ghouls.


    "Nexor-"


    *SPLAT*


    Nexor crushed the lower ghouls head, everyone, even his fellow ghouls flinching at his brute force while he pointed at the large dug out pit.


    "Everyone will start mining out the burial site now." Nexor''s entire body pulsed in a thick and slimy green energy that sent shivers down his fellow ghouls.


    Immediately, they dropped their whips and begrudgingly resumed mining the site alongside the terrified men they had kidnapped.


    "Not you, find me everything about the so-called ''Blue Eyes White Dragon''." Nexor gnashed his teeth, commanding another ghoul before pulling one more over to him.


    "And you, go inform the master that there is a problem."


    Meanwhile inside the van,


    "How did you kill those-"


    *TWACK*


    Ricky didn''t hesitate to pistol whip Dutch across the face causing the van to slightly maneuver back and forth.


    "Drive to your stash house in Harlem, we need to talk." Ricky demanded as the car behind him flashes its lights two times indicating it was Jake.


    "You know I can''t do that-" Dutch scoffed, only for Ricky to pinch the bridge of his nose.


    "If I hear one more word that isn''t ''yes'' then we''re going to have some serious bone cracking problems." Ricky bluntly threatened Dutch who clutched the wheel of the car but eventually drove towards their stash house.


    "That battle was horrid, my time has been wasted!" Alexander squealed loudly as Ricky scrunched his eyebrows.


    "Well what did you expect, the only times I''ve ever fought have been when I''m drunk or high-"


    Alexander Favorability: 11 - 2


    "Clearly!" Alexander crossed his little paws as there was no reclaiming of honor nor could that squirmish be counted as a battle.


    "You''re right, I should''ve been busy studying how to fade into the shadows." Ricky sarcastically said only for Alexander to take it at face value.


    "Exactly, however your cause can be salvaged yet, I shall take it upon my honorable being to make you into a proper warrior." Alexander crawled onto Ricky''s shoulder as he raised an eyebrow.


    "Huh, really?" Ricky turned towards Alexander who nodded his head.


    "Although I would have preferred a more intelligent disciple, you will do." Alexander sat on Ricky''s shoulder as the man scrunched his eyebrows.


    "I''ve mastered the art of fighting, however my teachings were never passed down since I was too busy vanquishing my enemies and conquering kingdoms, so you''ll carry my legacy since it was you who awoke me from my slumber." Alexander proclaimed which surprised Ricky.


    "You know that I''m a sh*tty person-"


    "There is no such thing as good in war, all those who claim to be of noble being clearly have never held a sword." Alexander scoffed at the notion Ricky was leading too as he turned frantically towards the side.


    "In war, you are the hero and also the villain. Innocent and ruined, all fall by the blade in which you wield." Alexander''s voice carried numerous innocent lives with it as the burning of cities reflected in his eyes before they closed.


    "And I see immense untapped potential in you, young Ricky. I will shape you into the leader that everyone around you hopes you will become." Alexander patted Ricky''s cheek as he sternly gazed forward.


    Ricky knew he was a complete screw up, ever since he was old enough to hold expectations he always seemed to let others down.


    ''Maybe in this life, I won''t be a helpless fool.'' Ricky thought since he didn''t have any noble intentions nor did he believe he wouldn''t let another down.


    However, Ricky hated the heart wrenching feeling of Rocco dying and there being nothing he could do about it.


    "Then if you''ll have me, I''ll be under your care, teach." Ricky showed his toothy smile to Alexander who jerked his head to the side.


    Alexander Favorability: 19 + 8


    "Whatever foolish student." ALexander scoffed though Ricky could see Alexander was clearly lying to himself.


    ''What a wacko.'' Dutch wore a strange expression, his sweating figure betraying his unease, as Ricky made no effort to hide his conversation with Alexander.


    Eventually, they arrived at a particular house nestled between two others as Ricky got out and gestured to Dutch with the gun.


    A car pulled up beside him, revealing Jake, who brought out Abraham who''s gaze was venomous as he looked at Ricky.


    "Nice one, Slick." Abraham sarcastically spoke as Ricky rolled his eyes though didn''t go into the house.


    "Oh shut up, there were like twenty of those monsters." Ricky scoffed but Abraham shook his head.


    "You obviously didn''t fade into the shadows after killing the first two." Abraham guessed as Ricky gawked at this.


    "SEE!" Alexander pointed his little paws at Abraham while hoping up and down on his shoulder.


    "What does that even mean?" Ricky whispered, shaking his head but not moving an inch.


    "Slick?" Jake pushed Abraham forward though stopped as he saw Ricky wasn''t moving.


    "Hold on, I''m waiting for Chester." Ricky spoke, looking around until he saw a slick black crow flying in the distance.


    Ricky had thought about calling Chester back into the battle, but he was uncertain whether Nexor could easily eliminate him or if Chester might fall under Nexor''s influence.


    But he ultimately decided against the risk, preferring not to jeopardize Chester''s safety.


    Ricky held out his arm and in the next second, Chester perched on it as he nodded to Jake while nudging Dutch into the house.


    "Now we can go in." Ricky said with a smile as Abraham turned towards Jake and leaned in.


    "What''s up with all the animals?" Abraham asked since he had already seen the gerbil but now Ricky had a crow.


    "Don''t ask me." Jake shrugged before wincing in pain as Abraham showed a wry smile at this as he walked into the house.


    Immediately, Ricky saw the countless illegal items including; Alcohol, guns, drugs, and wads of illegal money.


    Pep had invested quite a lot into Dutch since he wanted to set up a front in harlem so he was steady supplying him with goods before making their mark.


    The items total net worth was around 1.7 million dollars and a big portion of that was the dirty money wedged all over the place.


    The dirty money was around four hundred thousand since along with the collection, Dutch had started selling some of his merchandise in Harlem already.


    Ricky whistled as he pushed Dutch towards the lone table in the kitchen as Jake showed an enthusiastic smile.


    "Slick with this alone, I could open up at least four more clubs!" Jake ran over with Abraham, his eyes widening as they sparkled with greed at the sight of the money.


    "We''ll do that later, this first." Ricky ordered as Jake jarred himself from the money and nodded, pushing Abrham towards the table.


    Ricky and Jake sat on one side while the two hostages sat on the other as Dutch looked at Abraham who shrugged.


    "Before we start, can you remove the weird blood magic thingy he has on him." Ricky pointed at Dutch but talked to Abraham as the latter nodded.


    "Of course." Abraham nonchalantly said as Ricky nodded.


    "If you free me-"


    "Nope." Ricky shook his head which made Abraham lean back.


    "Well then, I guess we''re at an impasse-"


    "Chester." Ricky gave him a chance as Chester raised an eyebrow but hoped off of Ricky''s arm and onto the table.


    "What are you? Some animal whisperer-" Abraham joked until his pupils suddenly dilated once he made eye contact with Chester.


    "You may proceed." Chester nodded to Ricky, backing up to the side as Ricky looked surprised.


    ''Why haven''t I been using this more?'' Ricky reprimanded himself, feeling more incompetent when underutilizing all the things around him.


    "It''s that easy, remind me never to get on your bad side." Ricky said out loud towards Chester while looking at Abraham seamlessly lost expression.


    "How do I get rid of the weird blood seal thingy?" Ricky asked as Abraham''s lifeless nod.


    "First-"


    Abraham then gave out a thorough and detailed explanation which involved getting a drop of Dutch''s blood along with the straw voodoo doll that had been confiscated by him.


    Then upon drinking some holy water, Ricky managed to connect Dutch with the voodoo doll and after four unsuccessful screw ups, they succeeded.


    "Finally." Ricky sighed in relief as an hour had completely passed.


    "Alright you can release your hold on him Chester and thank you." Ricky said but not before thanking him as Chester nodded.


    Chester''s Favorability: 51 + 1


    "You are most welcome." Chester nodded as Abraham''s hazy expression slowly returned to normal.


    Then, almost immediately after regaining full consciousness, Abraham flinched, warily gazing at the crow.


    "H-H-H-How did you break my metal barriers?" Abraham speechlessly asked Chester who scoffed at this statement.


    "Those mere walls could not stop my Genjutsu." Chester told Abraham though he seemingly cawed to him.


    "He said that he made your mind into his b*tch with his ganar justus." Ricky said while completely butchering the pronunciation for Genjutsu.


    "It''s Gen-nevermind." Chester almost corrected Ricky but decided against it.


    Abraham was on high alert like never before since he hadn''t started taking Ricky seriously before, but now he was watching him with the intensity of a hawk tracking its prey.


    "Chester, can you do just one more favor for me?" Ricky politely asked Chester who sighed and looked at Dutch who flinched.


    Instinctively however, Dutch gazed into Chester''s eyes as they immediately dilated in the next second.


    "I would like to see Maria again." Chester gave out his demands with Ricky nodding.


    "Deal." Ricky gave in without even hesitation while turning towards Dutch.


    "Now, do you know who killed Rocco from the Luciano family?" Ricky straight out asked Dutch as his eyes widened upon seeing Dutch nod.


    "Yes." Dutch responded, his voice cutting through the tension as Ricky and Jake fell into a heavy silence, their gazes fixed on him with lethal intent.


    "Who did it?" Ricky breathing became fierce as he clutched his revolver tightly.


    "Dracula." Dutch curtly answered as Abraham scoffed.


    "That not Dra-" Abraham chimed in from the side only for Ricky to push him away.


    "Shut up." Ricky''s words weren''t in the playful tone as usual as his eyes shine in an unforgiving light.


    Abraham saw this as his cue to remain silent, understanding the situation of being tied up and assessing his position.


    "Why was he killed?" Ricky asked, clutching his hands tightly as Jake bit his lip until it bled.


    "Dracula prefers fresh victims and on a night he went out to feed, he came across two girls along with their two dates-" Dutch explained in a monotone voice though this infuriated Jake.


    "THAT''S ALL HE WAS, HIS FOOD!" Jake yelled as Ricky slammed his fist against the table and Abrahma closed his eyes.


    He knew all too well this reaction since that is how vampires treated humans, like livestock waiting to be fed on.


    There wasn''t any other meaning to it, but that was the reason why it hurt the victims of these monsters even more.


    Dutch halted his explanation as Jake paced around the room, his agitation evident, while Ricky remained silent, his focus unwavering.


    "Why is this ''Dracula'' here?" Ricky asked though wasn''t gazing at Dutch but the revolver in his hand.


    "In search of the Sunlight pendant." Dutch answered right away as Abrham''s pupils condensed.


    "No, that''s, I-I destroyed the last one-....HOW IS THERE ANOTHER ONE!" Abraham yelled at Dutch in a worried tone, his voice shaking at the mere thought.


    "Dracula said that if we were able to find the lost Sunlight pendant here, then he''d grant the jewish mobs wishes of eradicating the italian mafia." Dutch answered Abraham''s question with all he knew as Abraham turned towards Ricky.


    "Slick, we need to go back NOW! If Dracula or any other vampire gets ahold of another sunlight pendant then he''ll be able to use his magic in the sun!" Abraham yelled at Ricky while trying to loosen his binds to no avail.


    "Tell me everything about the jewish mob, everything from the bases to the stash houses, I want to know where all the money flows." Ricky ignored Abraham and took out a pen and paper.


    Dutch started telling Ricky everything he knew about the jewish mob including their bases, stashouses, shipments coming in and out, and all the tedious details the Luciano family would need.


    2 hours later,


    After two hours, Ricky had written down numerous amounts of information onto the mint scented paper as he had used ten sheets of it.


    "Anything else." Ricky asked, standing up while Abraham stood up with him.


    "That is all I know-" Dutch dryly answered, but it was enough reason for Ricky.


    *BANG*


    *Thump*


    Ricky fired the last bullet, its metal casing piercing Dutch in the head as his brain matter splattered against the back wall.


    Abraham, however, remained unfazed, shifting his intense gaze onto Ricky with an urgency in his walk.


    "Slick, listen to me." Abraham rushed in front of Ricky as he was finally granted his attention.


    "This is serious Slick, you need to release me so that I can stop them and destroy that pendant." Abraham was pleading to Ricky at this point as he took the paper into his hands.


    "Let''s go." Ricky pushed Abrahma forward as Jake sat completely heartbroken at the side though lugged himself to his feet and followed them out the door.


    "Do you know how much destruction has been caused by Dracula when he gets ahold of those f*cking pendants." Abraham genuinely asked Ricky, knowing he wouldn''t know the answer to it.


    "The Tai Ping Rebellion and World War I are just a few examples of how his actions influenced the human world. These are among the most brutal conflicts in history, all because of that damned pendant." Abraham anxiously spoke as he was pushed towards the car while Ricky shoved him into it.


    "I know you might think I care about your little mafia, but all that matters is the big picture and that''s vampires." Abraham tried to sway the silent Ricky which only made him more anxious.


    "Vampires are very powerful monsters, however their weaknesses are what makes them beatable, but out of all the vampires, the sun is their biggest weakness and the only thing that makes dracula somewhat beatable." Abraham continued as Ricky got into the car while Chester flew away to get some rest.


    "These vampires seem more and more interesting to me, I''ve fought many mythical foes but never these so-called ''Vampires''." Alexander curiously observed Abraham''s panicking figure, his feats stretching across the globe but weirdly enough, he has never encountered a vampire personally.


    "Unlike the other vampires, Dracula''s only real weakness is that he cannot use any of his magical powers while in the sun. However the amulet takes away his one weakness and-"


    "I get it now, get out." Ricky stopped a little ways away from the stash house since he didn''t want to leave Abraham alone there.


    "What?" Abraham asked before realizing that Ricky had undid his bindings already which surprised him.


    "Honestly, there is no reason for me to keep you since everything you told me is the truth and since you want nothing to do with the Luciano family, you can go kill as many vampires as your heart desires." Ricky explained, pushing Abraham out of the car as he stood baffled at the side.


    "However I''m keeping this, I''m going to ram it through the heart of Dracula or whoever that is once I get a little stronger, and also I''m keeping one of these vials." Ricky said, throwing Abraham a bag that held all of his vampire hunting gear as Jake crawled up to the front seat while shutting the door.


    "Happy hunting, I hope we never meet again." Ricky waved as they drove off while leaving Abraham baffled at the side of the road.


    Abraham thought for a moment, dusting off his clothes and storing all his trinkets back into their extended spot before taking out his flask.


    "Well, that was easier than I thought it would be."

 Chapter 38: Minted Revelation

    Chapter 38: Minted Revelation


    "Look who it is, if it isn''t my very own son that just up and decides not do what he''s told-"


    *Bam*


    Lucky''s sarcastic tone was interrupted by Ricky slamming a pile of mint scented paper onto his desk as his father raised an eyebrow.


    "What is this, do you want me to check your homework or something?" Lucky laughed only to tilt his head weirdly at the paper, trying to remember the last time he''d ever seen Ricky ever actually write something down.


    "Is that mint?" Lucky nose sniffed the air, grabbing the paper and surprised at the pleasant aroma wafting into his nose.


    "Haha, laugh it up but those are pure results." Ricky tapped the paper, Lucky raising a brow while looking at them.


    "This is everything I gathered after doing the very thing you told me not to do, it''s everything I managed to collect on the jewish mafia." Ricky pointed at the minted stack as Lucky''s eyes widened and suddenly grabbed the paper''s into his hand one after another.


    "How did you-" Lucky was completely shocked, taken aback since this was even more information than he managed to gather.


    "Before you say anything I''m going to bed, and tomorrow I''m actually going to go to school cause I got to take care of something." Ricky then leaned on the desk, looking Lucky directly in the eyes.


    "But after all of that, we need to have a talk." Ricky then knocked on the desk, waving goodbye as although his actions were arrogant, they spoke for themselves.


    Although it was entirely reckless with only a hint of planning, Ricky managed to accomplish what Lucky hadn''t yet and unwittingly, Ricky forced Lucky''s hand, rendering him uncharacteristically silent.


    Once the door shut behind him, Lucky leaned back while letting out a baffled sigh, shaking his head but letting out a chuckle.


    "I swear to the lord himself, I can never get a read on that kid." Lucky sighed though happily took the papers.


    It wasn''t a giant leap in the right direction, but a small, significant step and Lucky understood the implications.


    Instead of charging guns blazing into the Jewish mob for revenge, Ricky was signaling that it was time to take him seriously and incorporate him into the takeover that was about to be underway.


    "Well done kid, well done."


    Ricky lugged himself to his own room while Alexander hopped off his shoulder and Ricky plunged onto his bed.


    Ricky''s body was incredibly sore, with his head throbbing as if his brain might explode at any moment.


    Nexor had truly beaten the crap out of Ricky, both physically and mentally, beating him down into this very moment that only made Ricky feel even smaller.


    Although Ricky had expected that people like Nexor could exist, he hadn''t considered that the supernatural world might be a reality.


    ''After all of that, I need to get even f*cking stronger-...f*ck.'' Ricky''s head sank into the pillow, his ambition for revenge outweighing his current capabilities.


    He had come to realize that being the strongest one around him wasn''t enough; he needed more power.


    It was only Ricky''s second encounter with the helpless, gnawing hunger for more strength that had ensnared countless others before him.


    But this craving was different from anything he had experienced; it wasn''t just a desire but an insatiable, consuming need that clawed at his very core.


    The sensation was like being trapped in a web spun by a relentless predator as every fiber of his being was tangled in its threads, each tug pulling him deeper into the labyrinth of his own ambition.


    The more he struggled to break free from these predator''s control, the more he felt the web tightening, binding him to an unending pursuit.


    The realization struck him with harsh clarity: being the strongest among his peers wasn''t enough.


    The vast, shadowy expanse of power stretched far beyond what he had initially perceived, and he was only beginning to scratch the surface of what this world had to offer.


    This newfound awareness wasn''t just a fleeting thought; it was a profound and unsettling revelation that redefined his understanding of strength and control.


    The hunger for power wasn''t merely a craving but a force that reshaped his priorities, pushed him to the brink, and demanded that he seek more than mere dominance of his fellow gangsters.


    It was a consuming drive that overshadowed everything else, leaving him in a relentless quest for something that seemed just out of reach, yet all-consuming in its allure.


    "Young Ricky." Alexander''s words broke him from his own mind numbing thoughts, standing on his hind legs while showing a mighty spirit on his nearby bed stand.


    "Hmmmmm." Ricky tiredly hummed, his face directly in the pillow as Alexander raised his paw into the air.


    "I know our first battle together was a trifling one, but mark my words, I shall forge you into a warrior that is tougher than any metal, I swear it!" Alexander passionately proclaimed as Ricky raised his arm into the air, still planted face first into the pillow.


    Alexander''s smile widened, and he shouted loudly, his voice echoing with fervor all across the room.


    "HAZAY!"


    The Next Day,


    "Jonathan, can you please read the next section?" Ms. Collins asked Jonathan who stood up with papers in hand.


    "The french revolution-"


    Ricky was sitting at his desk, half asleep, propping a book in front of him as he greatly regretted attending this school, his thoughts drifting as he struggled to stay awake.


    ''These stupid Skull and bones connections better be worth wasting my time in this hell hole, cause in the future they''re not, I''m gonna punch a baby or something.'' Ricky lamented to himself, teetering on the edge of his consciousness.


    ''But at least some connections will pan out quicker than others.'' Ricky thought, readying himself for later on.


    Though soon after, the book was pushed down to reveal Ms. Collins who showed a suspicious gaze until she smiled after seeing Ricky was awake.


    "Was that-"


    "Yes it was, now please read the next passage." Ms. Collin tapped his book, turning around as she swayed her lushious hips away while Ricky''s pupils bounced with her motions.


    "The french revolution-"


    "Next passage."


    "Uhhhhhhh-"


    1 hour later,


    The bell rang as Ricky put his textbook in his bag though when he went to walk out, Ms. Collins didn''t stop him and instead started marking something at her desk.


    "You''re not going to stop me?" Ricky genuinely asked Ms. Collins who politely set down her reading glasses before looking up at Ricky.


    Mrs. Collins had been somewhat avoiding Ricky after feeling an intense, unexpected pleasure from his mere touch.


    The experience left her so uncontrollably embarrassed that she couldn''t even bring herself to look him in the eye.


    With time, however, she had eventually warmed back to Ricky, though she still unconsciously kept him at arm''s length.


    "No Ricky, I''ve tried to reach out time and time again, but you only keep pushing me away. Although I am your teacher, I am not your guardian. We can talk when you''re ready or not at all, but you know where to find me if that time comes." Ms. Collins politely informed Ricky before putting on her glasses and continuing to mark something at her desk.


    Ricky showed a surprised expression as his gaze lingered on her desk though eventually walked away.


    The school day was over, but Ricky would be attending the Skull and Bones meeting as he still needed to take care of Ruth.


    Ruth had slowly started to nudge into Maria''s life more and more which greatly irked Ricky who knew that she was only a snake, but Maria didn''t.


    However with everyone going on around him, today seemed like the perfect day to finally act on that mission always looming in the shadows.


    "Hey beautiful." Ricky whispered behind Maria pigging out at the food table as she turned around with an embarrassed expression.


    Maria was about to speak when she remembered the food still in her mouth as she quickly swallowed the entire mouthful, clearing her throat before continuing.


    "Ricky, your back!" Instead of Maria, Ruth excitedly ran up to Ricky as she hugged him from behind which surprised Maria.


    "I am so sorry about what happened to Rocco, if you ever need to talk then you can come to me, alright?" Ruth spoke softly to Ricky, who responded with a gentle smile.


    Maria opened her mouth to say something but then shook her head, deciding against it.


    ''No Maria, Ruth isn''t like that!'' Maria thought internally, shooing away those nasty thoughts.


    "Thanks for your condolences, and if everyone else is busy then I''ll schedule an appointment with you." Ricky placed a hand on her shoulder before prying Ruth''s hands off of his body.


    "Let''s go find our seats Maria." Ricky grabbed Maria''s hand and led her to the chairs.


    Ruth''s eyebrow convulsed rapidly as she tried to maintain her face while Henry started cackling at Ruth''s distraught expression.


    The meeting was tedious, with most of it focused on upcoming events, until Henry brought up a matter that intrigued the entire club.


    "As you know, this will be my last year at this snore fest so I will be nominating my replacement for the council." Jerry boisterously spoke as everyone in the club had hopeful eyes.


    "And my replacement will be, drum roll please!" Jerry then started pounding his desk as Henry facepalmed at this usual act.


    "RICKY LUCIANO!" Jerry proclaimed as all the hopeful eyes were immediately ashen in the next second, turning to see Ricky sleeping on Maria''s shoulder.


    "R-Ricky!" Maria jerked Ricky awake, groggily opening his eyes to see Jerry laughing so hard he fell out of his seat.


    Despite many people vying for Jerry''s seat and promising him various things, he honestly didn''t care for it at all.


    Jerry only attended this club because his father, an alumni of Yale and former member, essentially forced him into it.


    In fact, Jerry had been handed everything he had in this club because of his family''s distribution company, Hammer Trading Inc.


    They had been around since the Revolutionary War, smuggling various goods from England to America before establishing themselves.


    Jerry was also handed the position of council member in his sophomore year because the guy giving it to him wanted to get into his good graces.


    So, in Jerry''s mind, it was only right that he handed it off to another person since it only seemed fair.


    But the main reason he gave it to Ricky was simply because Ricky was the only one who made him laugh in the stuffy meeting room.


    Standing up, Ricky walked to the front where Jerry had pulled up a chair and patted its seat.


    "Give it up for Ricky Luciano everyone!" Henry quickly accounted for the recent developments, and as he finished, the room filled with the sound of claps from those who had succeeded, mingled with the glares of those who had failed.


    "What are you up to?" Ricky whispered to the madly grinning Jerry who waved his hand at him.


    "Oh come on Ricky, you should know by now that I like to stir this snore fest up every now and again." Jerry easily confessed his intentions as Ricky raised an eyebrow before shrugging though he gave Henry a side eye.


    Henry raised an eyebrow, seemingly communicating with Ricky through facial movements as the latter nodded his head.


    The meeting ended soon after, and the disgruntled and disheartened members trickled out of the room until only a handful of people were left, the council.


    Maria had to get back, so she gave Ricky a departing kiss and waved goodbye to Ruth before leaving with the rest of the members.


    "Of course yer would pick the greasy italian." Joseph scoffed as he squinted disdainfully at Ricky who immediately shrugged it off.


    "Better watch your mouth cousin f*cker, cause I''ll knock the last three teeth out of it." Ricky leaned back in his seat as Jerry burst out in laughter, causing Henry to choke on the water he was sipping.


    "You think you can take me!" Joseph stood up as Betty grabbed onto his arm.


    "Easily." Ricky chuckled though clearly held disdain in his eyes for Joseph, waiting for him to make the first move before he beat the crap out of him.


    "Honey calm down-"


    "Oh Betty, you should have more faith in your man like me~" Ruth turned over to Ricky before sitting right on his lap.


    ''Oh boy.'' Ricky thought he needed to be strong, but his body had other plans.


    Despite being unpleasant on the inside, Ruth was drop-dead gorgeous on the outside, with her diamond spoon not being her only asset.


    Brown-haired, slender beauty with captivating brown eyes with hair that cascaded in gentle waves around her shoulders, framing a face that exuded both warmth and intelligence.


    Her eyes, like pools of rich chocolate, held a depth that seemed to draw you in just like her family''s unimaginable wealth, revealing a hint of mystery beneath their surface.


    Her slender frame moved with grace and elegance, captivating all who caught a glimpse of her.


    (Image for the forgotten)


    "Ironic- '''' Harold scoffed only for Ruth''s eyes to hatefully condense.


    "What was that Harold!" Ruth''s head whipped to the side as Harold made a subtle retort, his sigh betraying his frustration.


    "Nothing." Harold whispered to the side while Ruth hummed victorious while Ricky grabbed her waist.


    Ruth immediately blushed, feeling his hands slowly clasp around her waist while turning to Ricky with a wide smile though right as she was about to make a purring remark, she was moved off of his lap and onto the chair next to him.


    "Anyways, I want to thank Jerry for nominating me and I promise to do right by his expectations." Ricky surprisingly gave out a mature response which delighted Henry.


    "Well said, Ricky." Henry clapped his hand as Ruth realized that Ricky had subtly rejected her outright advances which made her slightly annoyed at this festering feeling called rejection.


    "Now are there any other objections?" Henry asked since a majority was needed to reject this though no one else showed any signs of rejection.


    "Then Ricky shall be Jerry''s replacement." Henry announced as the other delightfully nodded along with Ruth who slithered her way to his side.


    "Ricky, can we talk for a bit?" Ruth whispered as Ricky raised an eyebrow though nodded.


    ''I need to start it now.'' Ricky side-eyed Henry, who responded with a slight nod.


    Ricky then followed Ruth out, his expression reflecting the unspoken understanding between them.


    "If she doesn''t spell trouble then I''m illiterate." Jerry whispered words that subtly forced the others to nod as Henry stood up.


    "Well, let''s depart for now and continue our affairs at a later date." Henry urged them on, and as they exchanged glances and shrugged, they shuffled out of the room.


    Unlike the others who thought Ricky would easily shrug off her advances, Henry lingered a bit before finally leaving.


    ''Come on Ricky, you got this.''


    Arriving at the side room, Ruth closed the door behind Ricky, effectively blocking his only exit.


    "You''re not going to murder me are you-" Ricky feigned his surprise, making a joke until Ruth suddenly threw herself at him, capturing his lips in a deep, urgent kiss.


    Her approach was intense and aggressive, her tongue plunging into Ricky''s mouth with a fervent need.


    Ruth didn''t hold back, fully wrapping Ricky''s tongue against hers as he hadn''t encountered such intensity since his on-and-off fling with a female MMA fighter.


    Breaking the kiss, Ruth pressed herself against Ricky''s muscular chest, her hand caressing him with a mix of urgency and desire.


    The heat between them was undeniable in this second, her touch oozing a thrillful desire with a rose tinted blushed spreading to her eyes as she gazed upon only Ricky''s features.


    ''It''s perfect.'' Ruth''s hands traced over Ricky''s muscles, her mind wandering.


    Ever since she was a girl, she had gotten everything she ever wanted, from material possessions to people.


    But as she grew older, she knew that eventually she would need a partner. However, no matter how hard she looked, no one quite met her outlandish expectations.


    The more Ruth aged, the more her fantasy twisted into something unrealistic, a vision that seemed impossible to fulfill, becoming something only out of a written novel.


    This unrealism slowly started to become apparent in her surroundings as the fantasy began to wane, until she met Ricky.


    From the very first moment she encountered his eccentric personality, she was intrigued.


    That''s all it was at first, when she gazed at Ricky all she saw was a simple jester who sought to make her laugh once and a while.


    However, as Ricky began actively completing missions and becoming stronger and more refined thanks to his system, the fantasy Ruth once forgot about started to project onto him.


    This intrigue of an old fantasy slowly morphed into an obsession, especially after witnessing his transformation into an Adonis-like figure.


    However, Ruth didn''t want Ricky for who he was, she wanted the idea of him.


    She craved a handsome man around her age to simply look good and entertain her by her side, a perfect accessory to her already perfect life.


    It wasn''t that Ruth ignored Ricky''s personality, she simply didn''t care to see it since in her view, if it wasn''t worth seeing then it wasn''t real.


    So she waited, for any chance to entangle Ricky in her web thinking that with all that she had and was, there would be no way for Ricky to escape once she ensnared him.


    "Maria told me how she rudely rejected your advances~" Ruth seductively whispered in a hot breath towards Ricky''s ear causing his expression to almost twitch.


    ''So it was this b*tch.'' Ricky thought after realizing that Ruth was already influencing Maria to make decisions in their relationship to such a degree.


    "If you were mine, I would let you have me whenever you wanted~" Ruth continued her seductive whisper, slowly taking Ricky''s hands and trailing them down her slender body all the way down to her perky ass.


    Ricky gazed down at Ruth, the plan he had with Henry days ago unraveling in his mind as he leaned down while Ruth tilted her face upwards, and their lips met in a kiss.


    *Flashback in continuation of Chapter 27*


    "Now listen closely, I have a plan." Ricky leaned in, Henry mirroring this action and giving him his ear.


    "I''m going to knock her up." Ricky summed up the plan pretty quickly as Henry immediately nodded along without thinking about it too hard at first.


    "Of course-huh?" Henry shockingly let out, recoiling backwards with a weird expression.


    "I''m gonna put a baby in her, like with my di-"


    "I ain''t no retard Ricky, but like, why?" Henry asked, baffled that he had to ask this in the first place.


    Henry''s first thoughts were evident on his face, a large frown parting his features as he firmly believed in being a gentleman.


    Henry wasn''t a good person, no one in the business world was, but he was steadfast in his principles as a man.


    Values and family were at Henry''s core, and his relationships were the most important to him.


    Knowing that Ricky was already in a relationship rubbed him the wrong way, though he decided to give Ricky the chance to explain himself out of curiosity.


    "Listen Henry, what is the most important thing for a person of your-"


    "Our.'''' Henry corrected since Ricky was a part of the one percent as well.


    *Ahem*


    "Our stature." Ricky corrected though Henry easily knew the answer.


    "Image-wait." Henry quickly responded only to halt his own words, the businessman in him started eating away at his conscience.


    "So you want to get her pregnant then use that as an excuse to destroy her image since she will have had marital relations before marriage?" Henry asked though Ricky shook his head since he was thinking too narrowly.


    "Not exactly." Ricky held up a finger as Henry became extremely confused.


    "You said that her grandfather is John D. Rockefeller, the most powerful man in the country, correct?" Ricky held up a finger which made Henry nod weirdly since this was simple common knowledge.


    "Yes I did but-"


    "I''m going to use Ruth to draw him out so that I can have a ''talk'' with him." Ricky said while gazing at his system though most importantly, Chester''s Genjutsu.


    In fact, Ricky hadn''t really been using all of his items and abilities, still not entirely accustomed to them.


    He knew he needed to actively want to use these skills since they were his biggest advantage.


    Chester had such a valuable skill that Ricky hadn''t even used yet, and this needed to change and it was from that point on, he swore to start utilizing it along with his other skills when in these types of situations.


    The real reason Ricky wanted to get Rockefeller in a room was so that he could use Genjutsu to manipulate the old man into giving him his wealth or at least something that could be valuable.


    "You''re kidding." Henry laughed only to see Ricky was dead serious.


    "Ricky, the one thing that Rockefeller cherishes more than money is his family and above all that is Ruth, she can do no wrong in his eyes and if he finds out that Ruth wants you, then it won''t matter what plans we concoct-"


    "Just let me take care of Rockefeller and you just handle the tedious things." Ricky explained as Henry let out a haggard sigh, rubbing his forehead in distress.


    "All I''m saying is that once Rockefeller finds out your the father-"


    "Who said that I would be the ''father''." Ricky showed a sleazy smile as Henry rubbed his chin.


    "So you want to paint her as a harlot who sleeps around?" Henry asked, rubbing his chin continuously while thinking about the idea.


    "Yep and I need your help to do it." Ricky gestured to Henry who leaned back onto the car hood.


    "What do you need?"


    "I need an alibi for the day so you know how you were going to give me a car?" Ricky pointed at Henry who slowly raised a smile.


    "When?" Henry showed a wide smirk as Ricky shrugged.


    "I don''t know yet, but if she ever pulls me aside then I''ll make my move." Ricky said to Henry as he understood.


    "If this actually works and Ruth is painted in this way, this won''t only help us with the council, but also when leveraging things over not only the Stefields but also the Rockefellers." Henry had an enthusiastic smile on his face, thinking of the leverage to hold over them at an actual Rockefeller descendant doing such a shameful thing.


    "However, I do need you to find some men to say they ''slept'' with her if they decide to ask around the council." Ricky gave off the next part but that made Henry hesitate before slowly nodding.


    "It''ll be taken care of, but I need some time." Henry agreed, understanding that finding men willing to speak so freely was nearly suicidal.


    Despite the danger, he stood up, though he still hesitated slightly since this was a very reckless plan at heart.


    Ricky wasn''t a good person and he never claimed to be, he was a very selfish individual who rarely looked at other''s interests unless it affected him personally.


    "I honestly think your plan is commendable at best, but in the face of Rockefeller, I doubt that any of this will matter so are you sure you want to go through with this?" Henry asked but Ricky was firm.


    "I''m sure." Ricky agreed as Henry let out a final sigh before putting his hand on his shoulder.


    "Fine, it''s a ginormous gamble but if it pays off, and we get something on Rockefeller, then it will be huge." Henry stood up, looking back at Ricky.


    "However, remember one thing, Ricky." Henry held up a single finger with a dead serious expression.


    "Rockefeller is a crafty guy, he''s ruthless but the scariest part of him is how great he is at making people let their guards down." Henry had heard the haunting stories of the notorious John D. Rockefeller who almost took over the entire United States through Standard Oil.


    Knowing full well that he wasn''t someone to simply lose at anything, especially in the face of someone of Ricky''s standards.


    "So let me ask one more time, are you sure you want to do this?" Henry asked, knowing that if they went through with this they could never look back.


    "Yeah, I''m sure."


    *END FLASHBACK*


    Ricky initially wanted to let this plan simmer a bit however with the sudden arrival of a new threat being those disgusting ghouls and a vampire mascarding as Dracula, Ricky needed to be a little more reckless in order to gain the power he desired to finally get his revenge.


    "Are you sure you want all of this Ricky?" Ruth playful undid her top to reveal her bare perky breasts as Ricky slyly leaned into her ear.


    "Yeah, I''m sure."


    Author''s Note: Sorry if anyone feel''s blueballed that they didn''t get the vampire confrientation that they probably wanted. But I felt that I needed to put him getting smacked down since although I built up Ricky''s desire for power. Rather than simply showcasing his desire to be the strongest, I aimed to introduce a formidable figure who completely shattered his expectations and intensified his drive.

 Chapter 39: Ruth-less Entanglement (R18)

    Chapter 39: Ruth-less Entanglement (R18)


    Ricky''s hands traced down Ruth''s body, gliding over every curve and crevice that her petite yet supple body had to offer.


    With each touch, her clothes seemed to melt away under his fingertips until she stood completely bare before him, her cheeks flushed a deep rosy hue.


    Ricky then drew her closer into his embrace, his hands gently and slowly gliding down her back.


    The tips of his fingers traced along her soft skin, leaving a trail of goosebumps before slipping inside her tight, pink folds.


    ''Wet to the touch.''


    "Ha~" Ruth broke the kiss, only for Ricky to pull her back into it as her body was seemingly flooded with pure unbridled lust.


    A clear liquid glistened at her entrance as Ricky''s fingers slowly trailed down, eventually starting to caress her sensitive folds.


    The thin silk of Ruth''s panites was the only thing separating their embrace as a wet spot slowly started to bloom right beneath Ricky''s touch.


    Pulling aside her damp panties, his fingers gently teased the delicate slit formed from the tighthold of her folds.


    Amidst his fingertips, he felt the warmth and slickness of her being until slowly, he pried her open with two fingers, parting the tight dam that guarded her inner floodgates.


    Upon being opened, a slight trail of sweet nectar dribbled down her thigh but instead of taking immediate advantage of the situation, he simply continued to tease, letting the anticipation build.


    Leading her backward, still entrancing Ruth with his kisses and her soft moans, Ricky guided her onto a nearby table.


    Helping her up, their waists aligned perfectly as Ruth eagerly broke the kiss, feeling Ricky''s lips trail down her neck as she was wholly focused on him or more rather, his body.


    As Ruth sat there, letting him become completely captivated by her own body, she decided it was her turn for pleasure.


    With a deliberate, teasing touch, she began to remove his clothes, all while Ricky subtly explored her body, enhancing the intensity of their connection.


    As Ruth undid the buttons on his collared shirt, her wildest fantasy unfolded before her eyes as she traced her hands slowly over his chiseled, masculine form, savoring every contour of his well-defined physique.


    Ricky''s body was anything but natural, the result of a system designed to push his genetics to their peak.


    But to Ruth, the method of his transformation was irrelevant; what mattered most was that this extraordinary form was now within her grasp.


    Everything Ruth ever wanted in a trophy husband was right in front of her and for this brief moment, she had it all.


    Ricky unbuckled his pants, his cock falling heavily against her tight folds, causing her to flinch.


    Ruth swallowed hard, her eyes locked on his veiny, throbbing member, her anticipation palpable.


    But instead of offering any soothing words and assurance, Ricky remained silent, seemingly waiting for something.


    "Ricky?" Ruth questioned in a breathless tone, almost desperate as her fast beating heart prepared to take itself to take it all.


    "Yes?" Ricky asked, not inherently giving way as he gazed at the mission which he highly coveted.


    Have Ruth throw away her pride that she always hangs over others (Incomplete)


    "Aren''t you going to-.......you know-" Ruth awkwardly chuckled, literally naked before each other yet stopping at the final step.


    "Say it." Ricky held his laughter back while interrupting her, seeing Ruth''s stubborn expression once again in full display but her anxious tone broke it.


    "It''s abhoride for a lady like me to say such things." Ruth covered her face, unable to give in but Ricky took this chance to gaze at her graceful body once again.


    Long brown hair cascaded down her back, softly framing her delicate features and matching her hazelnut eyes.


    His hand traced over her smooth skin, his eyes greedily scanning her thin body, which formed a subtle hourglass figure as it wasn''t unnaturally exaggerated, but gave off a natural allure.


    Her perky B-cup breasts swayed with every fidget, her nipples firmly perked up at the cool air perumating around them, accentuating her delicate curves.


    Ricky''s gaze lingered on the most coveted part of her slender figure: two delicate, slightly pink folds pressing eagerly together.


    The line between them was tight, her entire pussy lips barely stretching beyond the width of his throbbing cock.


    ''Life truly is unfair.'' Ricky couldn''t help but think that Ruth was blessed with not just a background others could only dream of, but a body that countless women would envy and even sacrifice for.


    ''I''m going to completely enjoy this.'' Ricky thought, as he wrapped his hands around her thighs and spread them wide, that her lower lips remained untouched and perfectly together, never even flinching.


    Ricky was typically gentle at first, but he''d been itching to let loose and with Ruth''s eager attitude, he saw no reason to hold back, waiting only for her to give him the go-ahead.


    "P-Put it in." Ruth whispered but Ricky wouldn''t let it be this easy, seeing the mission ahead still incomplete.


    "Ruth, you said you wanted me." Ricky said with a carnivorous smile, his eyes seemingly enjoying every second of this interaction.


    "Now I want to hear you tell me exactly what you want me to do to you." Ricky whispered in her ears as Ruth''s lips trembled in response.


    "Put it in-"


    "Put what in?" Ricky interrupted her words causing Ruth''s hands to lower to reveal her annoyed eyes.


    Then, up close, Ricky witnessed the scowl on her face, a look that seemed to wipe away all of her natural beauty in one fell swoop.


    "I want your d*ck, I want you to f*ck me like a whore, I want to be ruined by you, and everything else in between, happy-AHHHHHHH!" Ruth''s snarling tirade was brutally interrupted as without mercy, he completely shoved the entirety of his length into her quivering folds.


    The sensation was a level of agony that Ruth had never experienced in her entire life, feeling the pain of her insides tearing and stretching forcefully in favor of Ricky''s invading cock.


    Immediately, Ruth''s insides squeezed tightly in an effort to stop Ricky''s advance as she clamped down on him with all his might, though it was no use.


    The tip of his cock continued to forcefully ravage her insides, drilling deeper and deeper into the deepest regions of her being without regard for the repercussions, wrecking anything in its way.


    Ruth''s thin and tiny frame convulsed, tears streaming down her face as she felt the tip of his cock continuing as even her stomach started to bulge until it pressed against the walls of her womb, a jolt of electricity shooting through Ruth''s mind as her lips pursed.


    "AHHHHHH-" Ruth let out a pain riddled screech only for Ricky to cover her mouth.


    Gazing down at the amount of girth still not inside and thrust the rest in one fell swoop, his hips collided against her waist with a slight clap.


    Then, with the sudden power in his movement, Ricky''s cock tore apart all the bindings that sought to constrain him while ripping apart the entrance of her womb and finally reaching the promised land.


    Ricky gritted his teeth, knowing this was only possible due to Ruth''s small frame but not caring while cherishing this tight feeling not only swirling around his cock, but having the tip clamped down in a stranglehold by her womb.


    Finally, blood started to trickle around the outline of Ricky''s inserted cock, stretching her to such unfathomable degree''s that it was noticeable.


    Blood poured all around and dripped down her thighs, mixing with the juices from before.


    "A-Ah!" Ruth''s small frame shook violently, unable to comprehend that someone had actually caused her pain as rage poured from her face, a fierce fire of hatred burning in her eyes.


    Then when she was about to say something, her words were cut off due to Ricky''s hand pressed against her mouth until she finally realized the position she was in.


    "So how does my d*ck feel, to get f*cked like a whore, to be ruined, and everything else in between?" Ricky let out an ironic smile, his words replicating her earlier ones as he was simply doing what she told him to do.


    Ruth roared angrily at his deviance, but Ricky met her gaze calmly as he slowly pulled out, only to drive a part of his cock back into her with a deliberate, measured thrust.


    Ruth''s hatred was caught in her throat, the pain unbearable as it shut her up while Ricky slowly pulled out not only one lust pill, but two.


    "It hurts~" Ruth immediately whined, taking a different approach and appealing to her more feminine and weak side that typically appealed to men.


    "Here, for the pain." Ricky pulled two pink pills seemingly out of nowhere as Ruth sniffled and opened her mouth for him.


    "Ahhhhhh~" Ruth cutely opened her mouth, thinking they were nothing more than painkillers as Ricky gently put them on her tongue.


    *Gulp*


    Ruth swallowed, maintaining unwavering eye contact with him while Ricky struggled with this predicament, feeling frustrated as he realized it seemed impossible to make her throw away her pride.


    Even when she was clearly at a disadvantage, she played the victim and manipulated the situation to her favor.


    Ricky''s patience was wearing thin; self-control was not one of his strengths, and Ruth''s defiance, especially after her initial recoil from the pain, was becoming increasingly intolerable.


    However, those ''painkillers'' would prove to be the turning point in their mental duel.


    They revealed themselves to be the lust pills Ricky had acquired earlier, promising to tip the balance in this charged encounter.


    Slowly, Ruth''s face flushed a deep pink, matching the hue of her arousal, while the pupils of her eyes transformed into hearts, reflecting her intense desire.


    "O-Ohhhh~" Ruth''s eyes began to twitch upwards, on the verge of rolling back into her head.


    The pain that had clenched her mind in a tight grip suddenly evaporated within seconds, leaving her in a state of intense, overwhelming pleasure.


    Her breath quickened, the pleasure intensifying with every passing second as Ricky witnessed the transformation firsthand.


    It slowly overwhelmed and took control of her entire being, leaving her mind consumed with nothing but the urgent need to fulfill this desire.


    "More~" Ruth''s hands gripped his arms tightly, her gaze fixed on Ricky, who was visibly stunned by the sudden shift in her behavior.


    "Oh I need it, give me more of this feeling~" Ruth shivered, looking up at Ricky with a desperate plea as Ricky couldn''t help but let out an ironic laugh.


    "What do you want, Ruth?" Ricky asked, sliding his fingers into her mouth as her hand began to slowly caress his abs.


    "I want you~" Ruth sloppily slurred out but when Ricky gazed at the mission, it wasn''t clear which made him frown.


    ''What more does it f*cking want-''


    "Please, oh god, I need more of this. I-I''ll give you anything to let me feel a single ounce more of this feeling. I need to lose myself completely in this sensation. Just take me, please, make me feel everything you have to offer." Ruth''s words were a desperate plea, her body quivering with anticipation as she yearned for the intense pleasure to overwhelm her fully, this sensation taking hold of her mind fully in this moment.


    *Ding*


    ''Woah, these lust pills are crazy.'' Ricky couldn''t believe how the pills had transformed the once arrogant and stubborn Ruth into someone so completely eager and submissive.


    The contrast was striking; the powerful, defiant woman he knew had become a vision of desperate need and uninhibited desire.


    Without a hint of hesitation, Ricky withdrew his cock from her tight lips, pulling it out fully before leaving just the tip still nestled within her embrace.


    *Thwap*


    Ricky drove his cock into Ruth''s pussy with a forceful plunge, the impact creating a loud, wet slap as their bodies collided.


    *Gasp*


    Ruth gasped as she felt every inch of him filling her completely, her hands trembling intensely as they cradled her own face.


    Yet, when Ricky looked down at her, instead of horror or pain, he saw a deep, intense smile spread across her lips.


    She gazed down, captivated by the sight of her pussy being thoroughly ravaged and torn apart, her pleasure overwhelming her sense of reason while eyeing the scene with glee.


    "Ha-AH~" Ruth moaned loudly, her body convulsing as she squirted from the crevasse of Ricky''s impaling cock.


    Her head arched back in ecstasy, her pleasure reaching its peak while feeling the oncoming rush of her heightened and drugged out organism.


    Unknowingly, Ruth had been forever altered by this experience, realizing much later that no other sensation could ever match the intense pleasure she was feeling at that moment.


    Her entire body spasmed, overwhelmed by the intense pleasure that radiated from her clenched walls.


    The sensation spread from those twitching walls all the way through her core, sending tremors and quaking shivers throughout the rest of her being.


    Pushing Ruth''s body down onto the table beneath them, Ricky easily pinned her down with her willing figure and drove into her again.


    Shivering at the force, Ruth slithered her limbs around his body, feeling Ricky bury himself into the deepest part of her once again, relishing the tightness that enveloped him.


    Her body yielded to him with every overpowering thrust, instinctively molding to his shape as if perfectly crafted for him.


    Ricky gradually lost himself in the rhythm of their carnal dance, each plunge pushing them closer to the edge.


    The slick, wet walls of her cunt clung to Ricky''s throbbing cock with every thrust, coiling around the force of his pace that slammed down waves of lust through their bodies.


    The table beneath them quivered and groaned under the relentless force of their passionate entanglement, each powerful thrust causing it to shake with a rhythmic tremor.


    The only sound cutting through the resounding thuds of their coupling was Ruth''s loud and unabashed moans, her cries of pleasure echoing through the room with a fervent intensity that seemed to amplify the electric energy between them.


    "AH!"


    "AH!"


    "AH!"


    "AH!"


    "AH!"


    Ruth''s gasps and moans only fueled Ricky''s desire, spurring him into a frenzied pace as with each savage thrust sounded out more elicit moans, his hips meeting against hers which only morphed itself into a wet and sloppy hum.


    Their momentum surged with each cascading thrust, the sound of their bodies colliding echoing through the room like a drumbeat.


    The slap of skin against skin intermingled with Ruth''s fervent moans of pleasure and Ricky''s deep, guttural grunts, creating a sort of symphony of lustful raw desire that resonated through the air, intensifying the heat of their frenzied connection along with the smell.


    The fumes of their heated entanglement filled the air, a pungent blend of lust that released from their bodies and fogged the windows, permeating the room in their own stank.


    "MORE, GIVE ME MORE, YES!" Ruth screamed out, drooling at the mouth as the time for swallowing was replaced by the constant narration of the act''s between them.


    "I''M YOUR LITTLE WHORE RICKY!"


    "RUIN MY RICKY, RUIN ME!"


    Ricky couldn''t help but feel sucked in by these words, absorbed by Ruth''s constant screams that badgered him for more.


    Pinning her down even harder as he started pounding down on her relentlessly, his cock slick with her arousal, driving them even deeper towards a raw and unbridled entanglement of shared ecstasy.


    Wrapping his arms around Ruth''s pinned down form, his hands tangled into her hair as he buried his head into her neck.


    *THUMP*


    *THUMP*


    The table groaned with each forceful thrust as Ricky slammed his cock into Ruth''s tight cunt as she absorbed the brunt of their intense movements with glee.


    Ruth felt her entire body consumed by the relentless force of him, his cock driving her into a state of frenzied ecstasy.


    Each powerful thrust sent her mind reeling, the intense fullness of him stretching and filling her, overwhelming her senses and driving her to the brink of delirium.


    Feeling his presence all the way up to her stomach, Ruth''s body grew increasingly damp under Ricky''s control.


    Then in the next second, the tip of his cock collided with her special spot, sending waves of pleasure through her as she responded to his every move with a squirting applause.


    "I''m gonna cum." Ricky grunted out, sitting up to see the sweaty and haggard Ruth looking up at him with a sultry smile.


    Grabbing both of her legs, he positioned them on either side of her face, his pace increasing as he chased the swelling feeling building within him.


    Each thrust grew more intense, driving him closer to the brink as Ruth encouraged him all the way with an infatuated gaze looking at her squirting pussy.


    "Fill me up Ricky, I want it all, unload it all into this tight little pussy and ruin me!" Ruth cried out, her hands gripping his face and pulling him closer so he could hear him more clearly.


    Her actions conveyed just how desperately she wanted him, eager for him to release, desiring the sensation of his cum swirling inside her.


    A pulsating sensation throbbed intensely in his balls at that moment, as Ruth smiled wickedly, reveling in the feeling of his cock throbbing within her.


    The tip relentlessly slammed against her womb, teasing her entrance by partially opening it before closing it again.


    This rhythmic movement heightened the tension and pleasure, amplifying the sensations for both of them.


    With one final, forceful thrust, Ricky drove the full length of his cock into Ruth''s pussy, putting everything he had into this last, intense push.


    As he leaned in with all his might, Ricky fully immersed himself in the moment while Ruth''s body instinctively clenched around him, intensifying the experience and allowing him to revel in the heightened pleasure on a new level.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Ruth screamed out, grabbing Ricky''s hair as no other sensation could compare to the one she felt.


    His cock not only impaled inside her womb but pushed deep towards the very back, driving her pleasure to an entirely new level.


    Nectar squirted outwards from the outline of his cock as Ricky''s tip erupted, his thick, warm, milky cum splattering against the walls of her womb.


    It spread out, swirling around the small room, permeating her insides in a scorching heat that swirled her mind with the soothing warmth of motherhood.


    With no exit, his cum simply pooled inside her womb as it seemed to never cease, swirling desperately around as it stretched the already tight room even further.


    Eyes rolled to the back of her head, tongue extended to its very edge, and a breathless moan escaped her wide open lips.


    Ruth could only endure, twitching vigorously as Ricky held her down until the sensation subsided.


    She felt the blistering heat spiral around her stomach, the intensity of their release overwhelming her senses.


    "F*ck~" Ricky grunted, finally positioning himself above the aftermath of their encounter.


    Ruth lay there, limp and wide awake, twitching occasionally as she remained in the throes of her post-orgasmic haze.


    To anyone, they would consider this a job well done with this mission seamlessly finished, but when Ricky gazed at the mission window he still saw unfinished missions.


    ''Jobs not finished." Ricky slick his hair strands that dangled downwards to the back, steeling himself.


    Flipping the breathless Ruth onto her stomach, Ricky grabbed her small perky ass and widened it to see an even tighter hole hidden between her supple peaches.


    His finger caressing the cherry red color of the surrounding hole that was her ass, then without any more hesitation, Ricky slowly started to pull his cock from the thralls of her womanhood.


    Unwilling, he felt the clamping resistance of her walls as if begging him to stay, but he was firm in his mission of f*cking this gorgeous ass of hers.


    *Pop*


    Ricky''s cock slipped out, revealing the once-tight entrance now a gaping and stirred mess from accommodating the full length of him.


    Cum flowed from her pussy soon afterward, bursting forth as if finally breaking free from the confinement of Ricky''s member, which had acted as a dam, allowing it to surge and spill out.


    The liquid burst forth, spilling onto the table before cascading down the surface where Ruth lay, lifelessly situated.


    Ricky rubbed the tip of his cock against her ass, gently pushing it in but encountering significant resistance.


    Feeling the immense difficulty of trying to penetrate even the tip, the tightness creating a challenge that ensnared his desire.


    A slight spasm occurred as Ricky managed to insert just the tip of his cock into her tightly clenched ass.


    Her back arched almost immediately, and Ricky placed both hands on her shoulders for a firmer grip, allowing him to maintain control and adjust to the tightness.


    "HAAAA~" Ruth''s drooling mouth exhaled a sultry moan, feeling the ripping sensation corse through her ass but instead of screech in agony, she moaned like a b*tch in heat.


    Pushing his weight down into her ass, Ricky let gravity assist, causing Ruth''s body to tremble with each inch that was slowly submerged within her.


    ''F*cking hell.'' Ricky thought to himself, struggling to push even halfway in as he was repeatedly stopped by the sheer tightness of her ass.


    Gripping down on her shoulders tightly, Ricky''s cock twitched slightly before putting all his strength into his hips.


    *SLAP*


    With one brutal thrust, Ricky rammed the entire length of his thick, veiny cock into her tight little asshole, tearing through any walls that acted against him with an aggressive force that left it with no choice but to yield to his ruthless invasion.


    "YEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSS~" Ruth screamed out, having a stupidly lustful smile plastered onto her face.


    Ruth couldn''t help but revel in the relentless, mind-f*cking lust brutally forced onto her tight holes.


    The pills she took transformed every ounce of pain into pure, unadulterated pleasure, amplifying her desire threefold.


    Yet, the most revealing aspect of their rough, sloppy interactions was that beneath the fa?ade of a spoiled little princess, she was, in fact, a true freak.


    Having achieved everything she desired, her wants had morphed into a tangible need, finding unexpected pleasure in being held down and her body handled like some ragdoll.


    "RICKY, USE ME!" Ruth moved her head back, looking back at Ricky still revealing the immense tightness that strangled his cock.


    *BAM*


    Ricky didn''t hesitate and planted her head into the table while lifting her tight little ass upwards with a sleazy smile.


    "Oh don''t worry, I wholly plan too." Ricky laughed, a little unbelieving at how the situation between them unfolded but went with it, quite enjoying playing with her body after all she did to him.


    Throbbing inside her tight hole, Ricky pulled out slightly causing Ruth''s eyes to madly twitch until he slammed it all back making her eyes widen.


    "O-O-"


    Ruth couldn''t even finish her stammer of a moan with Ricky ramming his cock into her ass once more.


    Her body jerked forward from the force of his hips, only to be held back down in place.


    As Ruth attempted to voice another moan, Ricky forcefully interrupted her with yet another brutal thrust, sending shockwaves of pleasure and pain coursing through her body.


    Her attempts at coherent sound turned into a disjointed orchestra of gasps and moans, her voice cracking and faltering with each relentless drive of his hips.


    Her body jerked and twitched with each thrust, unable to form any coherent response beyond the primal sounds escaping her lips.


    Ricky''s relentless assault on her tight, yielding flesh left her feeling like a broken record, repeating the same patterns of pleasure and pain, desire and submission, over and over again.


    "OHHHHHHHHHHH~" Ruth''s eyes shot wide open as when she finally regained her breath, an intense wave of pleasure surging through her, causing her pussy to gush out with her sweet syrupy juices.


    The intense stimulation of her ass alone led to a slippery, wet climax rippled out a response from those ruined folds of hers.


    With the next thrust, her pussy continued to act like a sprinkler, splashing out another round of her essence and drenching the table below her in the aftermath of her orgasm.


    Pinned down and unable to resist, Ruth simply laid there, her body quivering with each forceful thrust from Ricky.


    Sliding back and forth across the table at the whims of Ricky''s thrusts, she couldn''t help but release guttural moans, the intensity of his actions overwhelming her senses and driving her further into ecstasy.


    "YES, YES~" Ruth stammered out slippery words, laughing as the blooming pleasure constantly coursed through and out of her insides.


    Ricky''s hips slapped against her ass, shuttering at the force before gripping down, squeezing his cock in an enthralling chokehold that almost made it somewhat painful.


    "HA~"


    "HA~"


    "HA~"


    Amidst her laughing moans of ecstasy, Ricky continued to slam his cock into her with relentless force, breaking down any resistance her body tried to offer in an effort to halt his movements.


    Almost possessed, Ricky cared only for the building pressure that ached in his balls which slapped continuously against her spritzing pussy, seeking to drown his two dangling meatballs in her nectar.


    Each thrust drove him closer to the edge, the intensity of their coupling pushing him beyond reason.


    With two final, quick thrusts, Ricky pushed his entire length in until only the tip remained in her ass, before ramming it all the way back in with a powerful push.


    Ruth''s back arched sharply, as if electricity were coursing through her, forcing her body to stand on end.


    Her entire being seemed to rise as she felt her ass being fully consumed to its very limits, then pushed even further.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH~" Ruth screeched out, Ricky''s cum flooding her ass afterwards while she felt the deja vu of her insides heating up at the touch of his cum.


    Ricky''s balls throbbed as he pressed his entire length into her ass as the tightness surrounding him amplified the pleasure, intensifying with each thrust until the liquid inside her ceased flowing.


    He was lost in the sensation, the intense pressure building to an unbearable peak until he released his grip on Ruth.


    The same Ruth who flopped back onto the table, her ass radiating intense heat, while her pussy seemed to deplete her entirely as juices sprayed out from her well-used lips.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    Both of them sat there for a while, each intertwined while each relished in the own aftermath of the soaring pleasure that hit them moments ago.


    ''Now for the clean up.'' Ricky thought, wiping the sweat off his forehead and slowly pulling out his clamped cock.


    With every inch he pulled out, his cum flowed out even more vigorously until he finally released himself from the tight grip that was her asshole.


    *POP*


    Ruth''s asshole popped like a bubble, and Ricky''s cum flooded out of her ass, flowing down and seeping into the crevice that was now her used, wet pussy lips before pooling onto the table along with the other remnant of her first serving.


    Gazing down at his work, he admired how thoroughly she had adjusted to his length until his fingers slithered back into her hair, clamping down into a fistful.


    Seeing the sheer bliss etched across her face, he yanked her toward him, dragging her over the cum-slicked table.


    Ruth slid across its surface with a sensual glide, like a vessel on a waterslide, until her face came to rest directly before his still-erect member.


    The towering dragon loomed in her gaze, its reflection mingling with the haze that slowly dissipated, revealing his member drenched in a mix of his cum and her nectar.


    "You don''t mind a quick clean up, do you?" Ricky''s curiosity was piqued as he asked, unsure if this would work.


    Instead of standing up, she responded with a mischievous glint in her eyes and parted her lips provocatively.


    "To think after all of that, you''re still asking." Ruth taunted, her voice dripping with playful challenge.


    Ricky, momentarily stunned by her boldness, didn''t hesitate to respond before she could change her mind.


    Grabbing both sides of her head, Ricky guided her mouth onto his cock. She eagerly began to devour him, her lips and tongue working to please him, but soon encountered a problem as she struggled to accommodate his full length.


    As his cock slipped into her mouth, it felt like an endless stretch, pushing past her lips and deeper into her throat, showing no sign of stopping.


    Her eyes watered, and she began to gag as Ricky pressed on, refusing to relent until his entire length was fully sheathed in her mouth.


    "To think after all of that, you''re still reacting like this." Ricky laughed out, seeing her struggling to not throw up his cock back.


    Ruth glared up at him defiantly, her eyes filled with a mix of hatred and determination as she strained to keep him fully within her throat, working to relax her muscles despite the pressure.*


    She seemed to swallow his cock whole, her throat working rhythmically to massage his length with an endless, consuming gulp.


    Ricky clenched his teeth, feeling the relentless pressure of her throat as it massaged his cock with each swallow, eagerly anticipating the continuation of her blowjob.


    Ruth, determined to assert herself and prove her worth despite her inexperience, dedicated all her focus to his member.


    She tried to recall everything she had heard or read about giving a blowjob from secondhand sources, but the reality proved far more challenging than she had imagined.


    As she tried to relax her throat, she gagged involuntarily, causing Ricky to pause and look down at her with a smug smile.


    "Are you sure you don''t want to give up?" Ricky taunted, knowing it would be extra motivation, resulting in Ruth flushed with anger while refusing to give up.


    She took a deep breath, willing herself to try again and Ricky, sensing her effort, gently guided her, showing her how to adjust her angle and pace.


    Ruth struggled to find her initial rhythm, her inexperience evident in her awkward movements.


    She slobbered on his veiny cock, her efforts sometimes too eager, too frantic, and yet not quite enough to truly please him.


    Her mouth felt dry, her throat constricting with each attempt to take him deeper as she gagged and choked, the taste and texture unfamiliar and overwhelming.


    Bobbing her head more, Ruth was acutely aware of Ricky''s patience, of the way he clenched his teeth when she swallowed his cock.


    Slowly, Ruth felt her own arousal build as he thrust her face into his pubic hair, her nostrils taking in the raw scent.


    She could feel his arousal, a powerful and intoxicating force that both scared and excited her while continuing to bob her head while slathering his cock in her warm saliva.


    Her tongue tasted the flavors of their ruthless encounters, almost losing herself right then and there.


    Then as if a switch flicked, she found a semblance of a rhythm, her movements becoming more fluid, more confident.


    Taking his cock into her throat with more ferocity, she reveled in its twitching every now and again.


    Ruth became wet at the mere thought of feeling that scorching feeling persist in her mouth as it already did in her other sacred areas.


    Swaying back and forth while slurping his cock whole, she dared to look up at Ricky, hoping to see approval in his eyes.


    Ricky, to his slight shock, was honestly impressed since she was a natural freak in the way she handled his cock.


    With a gentle yet firm grip, he guided her, showing her exactly what he liked, making Ruth a little arrogant.


    She was encouraged by his response, she redoubled her efforts, determined to bring him to the brink of ecstasy.


    Ruth, eager to see more of Ricky''s expressions, slammed herself into his cock, taking him even deeper into her throat to simply revel in his reaction.


    She delighted in the way his face twitched with pleasure, savoring the taste of him as her eyes sparkled with desire, her gaze filled with adoration once more.


    Ruth then became aggressive, motivated by the twitching that surrounded her gums while her tongue swirled his cock in a slimy embrace.


    ''More, give me more!'' Ruth thought, her eyes morphing into hearts while feeling his twitching ramping up.


    Gripping firmly onto her hair, Ricky gritted his teeth while closing his eyes in the face of this feeling while Ruth ramped up her pace.


    The feeling all but rushed into Ruth''s mouth, that coursing hot feeling she ached for swirling and splashing all across her tongue notifying her that Ricky had come.


    *Gulp*


    Ruth swallowed the first batch immediately, her cheeks bulging as she struggled to keep up with the next burst that filled her mouth.


    Savoring it this time, she felt the salty slimy texture wrap around her tongue, swirling around in it before closing her eyes.


    *GULP*


    Ruth gulped the second helping in delight, feeling the very last of his cum splurge into her mouth though this time, she swirled it around.


    Relishing in the taste, his milky white batter coursed through her mouth akin to mouthwash until she finally had enough of the sensation.


    *GULP*


    "Ah~"

 Chapter 40: Liar Liar Pant’s On Fire

    Chapter 40: Liar Liar Pant''s On Fire


    [Mission Received: Ruth Steffield]


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: B+


    Description: Ruth Steffield, born with a diamond spoons that makes all diamond spoons pale in comparison. From a young age she''s got whatever she''s desired and all she''s ever wanted.


    Objective: Give her what she wants and something she never expected to get.


    Reward: 50,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Ruth Once(Complete)


    Choose: 100 Gacha or Ruth''s Skills


    Impregnate Ruth Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Impregnate Ruth Thrice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Have Ruth throw away her pride that she always hangs over others(Complete)


    Reward: Legendary/Epic Coupon


    Get Ruth to beg for your cum(Complete)


    Reward: Epic Item Coupon


    Cum Inside all three of Ruth''s holes(Complete)


    Reward: Rare Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    F*ck Ruth in the club room(Complete)


    Reward: +3 Stamina


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    Have Ruth clean up your dirty cock(Complete)


    Reward: Epic Skill Coupon


    Impregnante Ruth in school


    Reward: Epic Weapon Coupon


    ???????????????????


    ''What a freak.'' Ricky thought, watching her plop down onto the table once she had her fill of his cum which sort of surprised him.


    "Ricky?" Ruth hazily asked out, laying flat on the table but hazily looking up as his cum dripped from her pussy, ass, and wiped the last bit of it from the ends of her mouth then swirled it around her tongue.


    *Cough*


    "Soooooooooo, my pops needs to take care of some things so I have-" Ricky lightly coughed, pointing behind him since he honestly wanted to just leav


    "Oh Ricky~" Ruth smiled, her senses returning to normal while shaking her head with a knowing smile.


    "Your mine now-"


    "Actually, have fun." Ruth stopped her condescending words and waved at Ricky, laying back down while relishing the swirling aftershock of their mind f*cking entanglement.


    Ruth started humming to herself with a sharp look while trailing her hands all over her body while Ricky looked at her before rolling his eyes.


    ''Have your fun now, since soon you''ll be on my leash.'' A flash shone in her eyes as she started chuckling.


    ''But first let''s take care of that pest Maria.'' Ruth then tried to sit up only to have a slight shock ripple through her being.


    ''On second thought, let''s wait a bit.''


    Ricky walked out of the back of the school to see Henry waiting next to a new dark blue car, throwing the keys at him as Ricky easily caught them.


    "Here." Henry handed Ricky a document that proved his ownership of it while handing it a pen.


    "We went down to the local dealer and I cleared it out so you could pick a car." Henry started giving the cover story as Ricky skimmed the document to know what he was signing.


    "I was adminant about the white one however you were taken with the dark blue and insisted." Henry tapped the car before Ricky finally signed the paper and handed it back to him.


    "I already have my people at the dealer signing a contract stating they saw you there and already three people in school willing to ''confess'' to sleeping with Ruth." Henry had finished the tedious tasks making Ricky let out a refreshing sigh.


    "Now that I took care of my end of the agreement, be careful Ricky, this is the part that will get rocky since the Steffield''s and the Rockefellers will do anything to paint you as a liar." Henry gave another warning but Ricky simply flashed a smile.


    "Seriously Ricky, they''ll always get what they want-" Henry tried to warn Ricky, but the later was adamant while raising a thumbs up.


    "Don''t worry, I got a Chester." Ricky then entered the car and stepped on the gas as Henry stood there for a moment with a confused expression..


    "What the hell is a ''Chester''?"


    Ricky drove not to his house, but all the way to Maria as he stopped the car in front of the mansion.


    "Princess, Ricky''s here!" Profaci hollered as he let Ricky in, immediately noticing the ashen pallor on Ricky''s face.


    "Is there something wrong Slic-"


    "RICKY!" Maria barged out of her room with a bright smile and bolted down the stairs, jumping into his arms, however, he didn''t twirl her around like he usually did.


    "Ricky?" Maria''s smile slowly faltered, immediately a concerned look brushed across her face when seeing his unsettled expression.


    "Maria, I need to tell you something." Ricky seriously spoke, grabbing ahold of her cheek and turning it slightly upwards to his eyes.


    "What is it?" Maria curiously asked, her heart squeezing thinking she had done something wrong as Ricky faked his absence of words before rubbing his forehead.


    "Ruth-........Ruth kissed me." Ricky confessed to Maria, Profaci about to walk out of the room to give them space, immediately froze in place.


    "W-What?" Maria''s voice cracked, her heart sank to the bottom of her stomach as her smile faded completely before asking again for clarification.


    This was the pivotal moment of the plan as Ruth had woven herself so deeply into Maria''s life that it was now crucial for Ricky to take charge of the unfolding narrative


    "Ruth pulled me aside and said she heard about how you ''turned down my advances,'' claiming I deserve better and should be with her. But before I could leave, she threw herself at me." Ricky spoke in the practiced manner he had rehearsed the entire ride here, while Maria''s eyes began to water.


    "W-What." Maria squeaked out, her heart shattering into thousands of pieces as her first true friend, someone she thought she could share the world with, betrayed her by coveting the one thing Maria cherished most in this world.


    "She couldn''t have-"


    "I know you''re confused Maria and I know you don''t want to believe me, but I had to come here before she started saying that I slept with her." Ricky then moved onto the last portion of his lie while Maria visibly crumbled.


    "Why?" Maria asked, tears trailing down her cheeks while Ricky held her to her feet.


    "She said that if I didn''t accept her advances that she would tell you and everyone that I slept with her." Ricky said with a broken heart as Maria tried to rub away the tears, yet they continued to fall.


    "I know it''s hard to believe but I love you-" Ricky was about to confess his love for her until Maria took him into a kiss.


    Letting go, Maria stroked his face with a smile and though her heart was shattered, she felt relieved that Ricky was still here to pick up the pieces.


    "I trust you Ricky and I love you as well, but." Maria almost gave into his whim but grabbed his shirt while backing away.


    It was just too sudden for the already fragile Maria, this gravity defying situation was something she had never experienced and honestly it was hard for her to wrap her head around.


    "I-I need to be alone right now." Maria then without any more clarification, ran as fast up the stairs as she did down them as she started to break down completely.


    "Maria-"


    "Slick." Profaci stopped him just before Ricky tried to chase after her with a disheartened expression.


    "She loves ya, but she needs to face this demon on her own." Profaci tapped his shoulder while wiping off a piece of lint.


    "Honestly, I''m very conflicted about what to do as even I am confused." Profaci tapped both his shoulders while gazing at Ricky with uncertain eyes.


    "Ya did good coming here and telling me about that b*tch trying to ruin my princess, I''ll take care of it from this end." Profaci then gestured to the door as Ricky understood but was still a little hesitant.


    Feelings aside, his relationship with Maria was also a strategic move for the Luciano family to grow closer to Profaci.


    In fact, the Luciano family''s counterfeiting ring had grown exponentially due to Profaci''s generosity, fostered by the bond between Ricky and Maria.


    ''Calm down Ricky, you did your part.'' Ricky thought, walking out of the mansions and towards the car while proning.


    The thing about accusations is that the first implication is the most important, people tend to believe the first one to accuse and this was the angle Ricky was relying on in hopes of controlling the narrative first.


    Twice in his previous life, he had dealt with the chaos of being entangled with unstable women, and after going through two grueling procedures in freeing himself from the shackles of false accusations, he had become somewhat of an expert on the topic.


    Before driving home, Ricky let out a deep sigh and rested his head against the steering wheel.


    Ricky knew what he was doing was wrong, but he didn''t regret any of it when it came to Ruth.


    The one thing he hated most was being tied down or having things held over his head and knew he was a hypocrite in this regard, but he genuinely didn''t care.


    To Ricky, Ruth was simply a means to an end as he believed that using people to climb higher was the path to success.


    Ricky didn''t know how this interaction would impact their futures, but he was indifferent at that moment as he simply looked ahead, unconcerned with the consequences.


    Ricky also felt a pang of guilt for what he was putting Maria through since although he had initially only wanted to sleep with her, he now found himself genuinely falling for her.


    Despite the chaos he was causing, his feelings for Maria were becoming real and that also made him feel uncomfortable.


    Ricky had a habit of distancing himself from people he genuinely grew close to.


    It was something he wanted to change in his life, but the instinct to run away rather than fight for it still gnawed at him.


    During these times, the fear of messing up always clouded his mind, overshadowing the potential ways to make things right.


    The overall stress of his life and the accompanying chaos had really hit him at that moment as even despite the tools at his disposal, the pressure to do even more gnawed at him from the inside.


    ''When it''s all said and done Ricky, the only thing you can do is to keep going.'' Words of a distant past suddenly protruded up in his mind as he visibly flinched.


    "Nope, nope, nope, nope." Ricky wasn''t even going to delve into those words and immediately took a b-line out of his pity party, putting his foot on the gas and driving off.


    Driving all the way home to the Luciano manner, he saw an individual he wasn''t expecting to be waiting for him, Alexander.


    The gerbil was standing tall as he was mounted on Chester while activating his ability which granted him a mighty set of greek armor from his distant past.


    It would be intriguing to discover Alexander''s abilities, but Ricky knew he would need to reach a favorability of 25 to uncover such details.


    (For those who forgot)


    0 Favorability: The user gets nothing and cannot perceive the familiar''s powers.


    25 Favorability: The user can communicate telepathically with the familiar and see their abilities.


    50 Favorability: The user''s telepathic reach has no limits, allowing them to connect with the familiar regardless of distance.


    75 Favorability: The user can understand the familiar''s thoughts and intentions.


    100 Favorability: The user can borrow and use the familiar''s abilities.


    "Ale-" Ricky was about to ask only to see the visible frown on the gerbil''s face.


    Alexander The Gerbil Favorability: 18 (-1)


    *Ahem*


    "I mean teach." Ricky noticed that his words had quickly shifted the favorability downward as he swiftly corrected himself as Alexander cast a steely gaze in his direction.


    "Ricky, your lowly strength made you come to me with the intention of growing stronger, did you not?" Alexander proclaimed towards Ricky who walked in front of him as he hesitantly nodded.


    "Yes?" Ricky said in a questioning tone since he didn''t know where this was going.


    Alexander The Gerbil Favorability: 18 (+1)


    "DO YOU WISH TO MARK YOUR NAME IN THE ANNALS OF HISTORY!" Alexander''s voice boomed as Ricky raised an eyebrow, looking at Chester though he was promptly ignored.


    "I guess so-" Ricky shrugged, looking at Alexander who raised his little paw that held a little tiny spear.


    "DOES THAT FEELING OF BEING POWERLESS MAKE YOUR HEART CLENCH!" Alexander proclaimed, pointing his tiny mini spear at Ricky who frowned at these words.


    "Yeah, it does." Ricky seriously spoke as Alexander flashed a small smile.


    "THEN WILL YOU FOLLOW IN MY FOOTSTEPS AND BECOME THE GREATEST WARRIOR THAT THIS GENERATION HAS EVER SEEN!" Alexander''s words seeped into his heart as even Ricky''s joking attitude couldn''t escape the vigor of Alexander''s mighty presence.


    "F*ck yeah!" Ricky fist-pumped, proclaiming as Alexander had inspired his battle spirit.


    "THEN I AM YOUR TEACHER!"


    Alexander The Gerbil Favorability: 25 (+12)


    1 day ago at the freak show,


    "Chores." Barko tried to talk to the gentle giant who let out a small sigh at this constant badgering.


    "Karl, how many times must I tell you that I am staying here." Chores looked down at Barko who sat down in front of him.


    "But what if he-"


    "Enough, his words were mostly likely shallow like all the others." Chores stopped Barko as the dog''s ears drooped down.


    "But is it really better to work for Carl-" Barko wanted to ask only to hear a cowbell ring in the distance.


    "Alright freaks, line up for your wages!" Carl announced as everyone in their tents bolted out except for two.


    Unlike the other people, the only real freaks or mutants were in fact Chores and Barko who were ironically the only ones who didn''t get paid.


    Barko''s situation was easy to deduce as Carl''s main excuse was that, since he had turned into a dog and couldn''t revert back, money was of no use to him.


    However Chores circumstances were vastly different, the main reason that tied him to the countless verbal and physical abuse suffered under Carl''s hand was his mother.


    Chores had a mother who was very ill, requiring extensive medications and frequent hospital visits.


    Chores needed money but no one wanted to hire a freak like him which is why he had no choice but to join the circus.


    At one point, Chores had almost turned to crime, but his mother, a devout Christian woman who believed that God had a plan for everyone, opposed his idea.


    This changed when Carl came into the picture and offered Chores a place in the circus, providing living arrangements and sending all of Chores'' wages to his mother.


    Chores was hesitant, and his mother didn''t want her baby to be touted as a freak, but the money was too good to pass up.


    So, for the twenty years of life he spent on this earth, seven of those have been spent in the circus, supporting his dear old mom.


    "This is so unfair." Barko ducked his head and Chores could only shake his head.


    "It''s better than the pound." Chores joked and even the sad Barko let out a little chuckle.


    "Aye Chores my boy, your mother has sent a letter-JESUS!" Carl couldn''t even get into the tent as Chores had bolted out of it.


    Chores showed no formalities, snatching the letter out of Carl''s hand then opened it, his worry clear on his face until a relieved sigh let out of his brooding figure.


    *Ahem*


    "Ah, I greatly apologize for my manner Carl-"


    "Whatever, I shouldn''t have expected much for a brute like you." Carl scoffed, grunting every now and then as he hobbled away.


    "What does it say Chores?" Barko walked out of the tent soon afterwards as a huge smile protruded onto his face.


    "She said that with the money I sent her from last week''s wages, she''s going to undergo a procedure that might improve her condition." Chores had a kind smile, pressing the letter to his heart as these letters were the only thing keeping him going.


    "That''s great Chores, I''m really happy for you." Barko wagged his tail in affirmation since he was happy for him.


    "Thanks Karl." Chores then walked back to the tent though Barko suddenly looked towards Carl.


    ''C''mon Karl, grow some balls and go take what you want!'' Barko roared in his mind as he dashed after Carl.


    ''This is the day, the day you''re treated like a human once more and are finally paid a fair wage!'' Barko continued to invigorate himself as he ran towards the main tent to speak with Carl.


    "Carl I-" Barko went to speak his mind, growing a set of balls and entering the ringmaster tent.


    "AND HE ACTUALLY BOUGHT IT!" A loud roar of mockery hit Barko''s enhanced hearing as the latter halted his steps.


    "Well it wasn''t that hard since that old broad writes like a fourth grader!" Another roar of mockery sounded which was Carl''s assistant, Raymond.


    "Still though, Chores gots a good head on his shoulders. Won''t he figure out eventually that his mother already kicked the bucket?" Raymond asked right as Barko peaked his head into the tent to see the interaction between the two.


    "That brute''s got a blind spot for anything related to his dear old mom, we''ll be able to milk those forgeries for at least another couple years before we break the news to him." Carl scoffed until the continuation of his own words caused him to start to snicker.


    "Break the news?" Raymond asked with confusion since he thought they were going to simply continue to forge letters.


    "You were right about Chores being smart, he''d figure it out if he was given too much time so maybe after three or four years, we''ll say she died at that time and make up some excuse about him not working hard enough!" Carl let out a roar of laughter as Raymond joined in, but Barko only became horrified at what he just heard.


    "Then what do we do about the last letter you didn''t burn yet?" Raymond held up the letter as Carl raised an eyebrow.


    "Can you replicate her handwriting without it?" Carl asked, and Raymond nodded in response and Carl then pointed to a candle.


    "Then just burn and do away with it, we don''t want to risk giving him any more hope that didn''t come from us." Carl coldly shrugged and Raymond nodded while walking towards the candle.


    Barko''s eyes clashed with an immense amount of grief for his only friend, ever since coming to this hell hole, only Chores had ever treated him with kindness.


    Ridiculed for his scientific failures as well as mixed with the activation of his X-gene, his new body made him a living target of mockery.


    Even Chores could''ve taken out his own insecurities onto someone of his kind but the gentle giant did the opposite.


    When no one lended an ear, Chores did.


    When everyone made fun of Barko, Chores stood up for him.


    When the ringmaster wanted to keep him in a cage, Chores let him stay in his already cramped tent.


    Chores had done so much for Barko, which was why his hind legs sprang forward with renewed energy.


    "What the!" Raymond let out as Barko snatched the letter with his mouth right before the paper could touch the candle.


    "Y-YOU!" Carlo pointed as Barko made a desperate attempt to flee towards Chores.


    "OH NO YOU DON''T!" Carl saw the aspect of his main attraction fading away with the retreating figure of Barko which he couldn''t let happen.


    Running to the right, he rushed to the speaker system that usually notified the freaks of various information and places to be and this time, however, he used it for something personal.


    "BARKO HAS JUST STOLEN SOMETHING PRECIOUS FROM ME, ANYONE WHO CAPTURES HIM AND RETRIEVES MY ITEM WILL BE GIVEN THREE HUNDRED DOLLARS!


    The P.A announcement roared in the camp as the freaks all jumped to their feet along with Chores who widened his eyes.


    "Karl what have you done!" Chores immediately burst out of his tent to see Barko maneuvering all around with the letter in his jaws.


    "GET HIM!"


    "BARKO STOP MOVING!"


    "DAMMIT I NEED THAT MONEY!"


    The irony of the situation unfolding in the camp was palpable as although Barko was the dog, everyone around him acted like greedy hounds, their drooling expressions fixated on the potential money within his own jaws.


    Barko''s eyes lit up when he saw Chores, but before he could reach him, Carl jumped in front of his friend.


    "Carl what are you do-"


    "GET BACK INSIDE CHORES, NOW!" Carl''s eyes were bloodshot as the giant flinched, looking back at Barko but closed his eyes.


    ''I''m sorry.'' Chores mouthed to Barko whose heart dropped after seeing his friend being lied to, but couldn''t say anything or the letter might fall into their hands.


    "CAPTURE HIM, KILL HIM, IT DOESN''T MATTER JUST GET ME THAT DOG!" Carl roared as the mob of freaks surged toward him, their expressions wild and frenzied.


    Seeing the assault on all sides, the image of Ricky appeared in his head before he started running towards the tree line.


    ''If it''s him he''ll help Chores!'' Barko knew that Ricky didn''t have the most honorable intentions but this was better than Carl''s at the moment.


    "DAMMIT!" Carl threw his top hat on the ground after seeing Barko lunge into the tree line.


    The out-of-shape thugs fell to their knees in exhaustion, heaving with every breath after their failed attempt to catch him.


    Barko, a spry Labrador, dashed through the woods with a renewed vigor since there was no way that these acts, who sat around all day simply to be watched by others, would be able to catch him.


    Upon finally reaching the treeline, Barko stopped to catch his breath and reassess his situation.


    ''He said to ask for Slick in Brooklyn.'' Barko repeated this exact sentence in his head over and over again as if he would forget it through the duration of his run.


    Present day,


    Barko arrived in Brooklyn with the letter nudged between his collar, which was an achievement in itself, considering he didn''t have any opposable thumbs and had run all the way here, a distance of around 20 miles.


    Looking around, Barko knew he had to ask for help, but he was puzzled about who to ask.


    As he walked along the streets, Barko spotted two men with slicked-back hair sitting at a small table in front of a coffee shop as he decided to ask these two for help.


    "And then I said ''Honey I''m not that big.''" One of the men said as the other man in front of him started dying in laughter.


    "You''re killing me Johnny, killing me I tell ya!" The man laughed at Johnny as the man smirked and took a sip of his expresso.


    "Excuse me gentlemen, may I have a second of your time?" Barko''s tired voice sounded from the side as Johnny scrunched his eyebrows instinctively.


    Looking to the side, however, he didn''t see anyone at his level until he lowered his gaze to a random dog.


    "What the-"


    "Do you two gentlemen perhaps know of a man named Slick? I would greatly appreciate it if you would kindly point me in his direction." Barko politely asked as the men looked at him with slack jaws.


    Then without skipping a beat, they both looked down at their espresso''s before immediately pouring the cups over the railing.


    "AYE VINCHENZO, WHAT THE F*CK DID YOU PUT IN THESE ESPRESSO''S!" Johnny yelled while stealing glances at Barko.


    "I assure you that I am real-" Barko tried to clarify but these guy''s weren''t having it.


    "What are you on about Johnny-DID YOU POUR MY ESPRESSOS ON THE GROUND!" Vinchenzo screeched in horror at his works of arts not ingested but splattered on the ground, making Johnny stand up and shake his head.


    "THAT DOG WAS TALKING TO US, WHAT DID YOU EXPECT US TO DO!" Johnny made gestures with his hands towards the dog but Vinchezno started signing as well.


    "IT''S JUST A REGULAR DOG-"


    "I am real and I, in fact, can talk." Barko held up his paw as all three of them froze.


    "Oh geez, what did I put in those espressos?" Vinchenzo went pale, holding his forehead in distress as Johnny''s words made complete sense right now.


    *Sigh*


    "This is going to take a while."

 Chapter 41: X-Gene Elevation

    Chapter 41: X-Gene Elevation


    "Lucky, how long are you going to baby Slick?" Meyer asked, walking up behind Lucky, who was currently watching Ricky being trained by Alexander the Great.


    To Lucky, however, it looked more like Ricky was simply messing around with his new gerbil.


    "I ain''t babying him-" Lucky waved away Meyer who didn''t simply take the hint.


    "Lucky don''t f*ck around with me, I know that you''ve been including him on family matters but you''re keeping him at an arm''s length from the actual internal proceedings." Meyer sighed, walking over to the chair and plopping down on it.


    "I mean if you worried about Slick then you shouldn''t, since in reality, the kid will probably be the one bullying the members of the family if that''s what you''re worried about-" Meyer tried to dissuade Lucky since Ricky didn''t seem like the type to be bullied or hazed.


    "Am I not allowed to be worried?" Lucky turned around with a dead serious expression but Meyer shook his head.


    "I get it Lucky, he''s your boy, but the kid''s ready." Meyer spoke his truth but Lucky only interrupted it as lies.


    "He''s still not ready-" Lucky wanted to deny all of it only for Meyer to scoff.


    "Lucky, he essentially took down the Irish mafia when he was drunk, DRUNK!" Meyer tried to yell some sense into Lucky who still frowned.


    Although Lucky had been including Ricky more into the family and having him run numerous errands, he had been subconsciously keeping him away from the actual core of the family.


    Lucky felt a gnawing worry gnaw at him whenever he thought about Ricky as he knew he couldn''t always be by his side, shielding him from the countless dangers that lurked in their world.


    When Lucky hit the streets back in his youth, he was constantly pushed around and beaten up by guys older than him, and to this day, it still left scars that ached on rainy days.


    It''s why subconsciously, Lucky continued to make up excuses to keep Ricky away from the family, and it was the real reason why he accepted Ricky''s plea to go to high school instead of coming to work for the family.


    "Other than Genovese, the other members of the family literally worship him and can you blame them, he can literally protect himself from bullets." Meyer was flabbergasted that he even needed to remind Lucky of these sensible things, though he understood why.


    He knew about Lucky''s past and understood that Ricky had unknowingly become his blind spot.


    Despite being one of the smartest businessmen he knew, Lucky had his faults, and Ricky was the prime one.


    Lucky saw too much of himself in Ricky, from the moment he met him Lucky couldn''t help but be reminded of himself when he was young and arrogant.


    But even when he saw him, Lucky unconsciously wanted to recruit him while even letting him scam his family so that he could feel safe and familiar with them.


    However when he saw the room, the very same with the blood and flesh of the five point gang smeared on the walls, he couldn''t help but see why.


    In that moment, Lucky finally saw himself in Ricky but at the same time, saw himself as the man who had set the outline for his own life, his father.


    He only felt disgusted with himself, his father was brutal in his own upbringing while forcing him to kill at the same age as Ricky all the way back in Sicily many years ago.


    But unlike Lucky, Ricky didn''t have anyone to fall back on for guidance. Lucky had his father, who, despite all his flaws, still loved him.


    Ricky on the other hand was an orphan, nothing to his name and no one to grieve for him if he fell at the hands of fate''s whims.


    Seeing what he had unknowingly caused, Lucky swore to himself that if Ricky was going to be dragged into this life, he should at least have someone who had suffered firsthand to properly guide him.


    At first, Lucky raised Ricky by providing him with all the things he wished he had experienced himself.


    This showed in how Lucky took care of Ricky, making sure all his needs were accommodated as no normal father, especially an adoptive father, would attach himself to another so quickly unless there was some form of relatability, and for Lucky, he attached fast.


    It was guilt that drove him to raise Ricky, but as the five years passed, his guilt faded, and he held Ricky in his heart like one of his own, his son.


    "I-.........I know." Lucky limped over to his chair and collapsed into it as Meyer chuckled.


    "But he''s my boy and I can''t stop myself from being worried, even if he can stop a full clip of a tommy gun." Lucky confessed towards Meyer who understood, letting out a small sigh.


    "I felt the same way with Jake, but I needed to let him go before he could truly become the man I''m proud he is today." Meyer smiled after thinking about how proud he was after finding out Jake was Ricky''s right hand man.


    *Sigh*


    "Alright, after this whole debacle with the jewish mob is taken care of, I''ll bring him into the family and finally show him the real ropes."


    Meanwhile in the courtyard after a couple hours passed,


    "PIERCE!"


    "HYAA!"


    "STAB!"


    "HYAA!"


    "TWIST!"


    "HYAA!"


    "PULL!"


    "HYAA!"


    "AGAIN!"


    Alexander commanded as he instructed Ricky with his makeshift spear, mirroring the training he had done with his own soldiers.


    Ricky let out his battle cry with every motion; if he didn''t, Alexander would berate him, saying things like, "You mustn''t leave too much air in your stomach!" or "You don''t look like a warrior but a sissy!"


    "S-Slick!" A man suddenly barged into the courtyard which halted Ricky''s movements.


    "Yes?" Ricky asked, since if he got this far then he had to be part of their family in some way.


    "I didn''t mean to intrude on your-........thing, but there''s something asking for you." The man, who was revealed to be Johnny, told him as he wiped the sweat from his forehead.


    "Something?" Ricky asked weirdly as Johnny hesitated, nervously squirming though built up the courage.


    "Y-Yes, a talking dog has asked for you-" Johnny knew how stupid it sounded and expected a berating from him, only to see Ricky''s face lit up.


    "Lead the way." RIcky dropped the spear at the surprise of both Johnny and Alexander.


    "A WARRIOR DOESN''T DROP THEIR WEAPON UNTIL THE LAST BREATH AND THAT IS ONLY SO THEY CAN USE THEIR HANDS TO DRAG THEIR ENEMY TO HADES!" Alexander roared but Ricky put a finger up.


    "Give me a moment, this is one of my comrades." Ricky sort of lied as Alexander immediately changed his tune.


    "Very well, go assist your comrade and then come straight back here to continue your training." Alexander crossed his arms as Ricky started pushing Johnny forward in great haste.


    "Now take me to Barko."


    1 hour later,


    "And that is everything Slick, you must save Chores I beg of you." Barko begged, laying down which was his own way of bowing.


    Ricky had a carnivorous smile as he looked at the single piece of evidence he needed to gain a powerful muscle man.


    Originally, he was going to give that job to Edward, but with Edward now paralyzed, Ricky was in desperate need to fill that spot.


    Although Ricky''s a part of the family, his position within it wasn''t set in stone and only in name only.


    Lucky always emphasized that a good leader was able to solidify his standing but surrounding himself with capable people, delegating, and building up a trusted network of loyal subordinates.


    Ricky needed Chores to be the pillar that would solidify his future position within the family, and now, everything finally seemed to be falling into place.


    "Of course I''ll help, do I look like such a bad guy?" Ricky joked though Barko let out bits of nervous laughter since that was exactly what he looked like when surrounded by countless thugs.


    "Hey boys, the circus hasn''t paid their fee for settling in New York, so who wants to see the local circus?" Ricky looked around with a smile as the thugs looked confused before giving out maddening laughs.


    "For everyone who''s up for it, meet me here at dawn."Ricky informed Barko and motioned for him to follow while the dog nodded and obeyed.


    Ricky returned to Alexander''s exhausting training, continuing to work out, practice his stance, and fight with the makeshift spear until he had trained for a total of six hours.


    Alexander was a firm believer in pushing through the pain, though he decided to shorten their first training session to get Ricky used to it.


    Ricky, however, was apprehensive, knowing this meant the training sessions would only become even longer.


    Standing in the shower, Ricky experienced de?ja? vu as he gazed at the items in his inventory that he had yet to utilize, closing his eyes, and letting the water wash over him.


    ''Receive.''


    In the next second, he braced himself for an immense amount of pain while preparing for the air in his lungs to forcefully evacuate.


    *Ding*


    Received:


    (Epic Skill) Intuitive Genius: This skill functions as perception, as it lets the user possess the ability to visually perceive "mechanical energy" (the kinetic energy and potential energy present in the components of mechanical systems) in action.


    -Effect: This power allows the user to instinctively know and understand the potential and functional operations of any machine or technological device in his visual range, a skill that, combined with natural intelligence, would allow the user to conceive, design, and build mechanical devices; and operate, modify, and disassemble existing technology or create countermeasures for it.


    (Epic Item) Quiver of Chance: The quiver always has an arrow ready for the archer, magically replenishing itself however its effects can be a mystery. These arrows have the possibility of various effects, such as exploding on impact, seeking out targets, or passing through obstacles though they could result in a regular arrow.


    (Epic Weapon) Vial of Aurora Borealis: When thrown, it bursts into a vivid display of colors, creating an illusionary landscape of northern lights. Within this illusion, time slows down temporarily for everyone except the user, allowing the wielder to strategize and attack swiftly while enemies are mesmerized.


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Culinary Arts: Expertise in cooking and food preparation, including knowledge of various cuisines, cooking techniques, flavor combinations, and presentation skills.


    (Legendary Skill) Psychic Constructs: Creating solid objects or weapons out of psychic energy for combat.


    *Ding*


    [The Legendary Skill ''Psychic Constructs'' is able to merge into your X-gene]


    [Would like to merge this skill into your X-Gene?]


    [Yes/No]


    Just as Ricky let out a sigh of relief, reassured that the system skills didn''t hurt, a new system message appeared, making him freeze in his tracks.


    ''Yes?'' Ricky muttered unconsciously, his words trailing off as his eyes suddenly strained as he fell to his knees, overcome by an unexpected force that scorched his brain.


    "God f*cking dammit." Ricky let out a pained grunt, clutching his head as the cold water attempted to soothe the fiery heat within his brain.


    He managed to hold himself together, having endured worse, until a sharp ringing echoed in his head.


    *Ding*


    (X-Gene) Psionic Fabrication: Ricky can manipulate psychic energy to fabricate solid, tangible constructs and generate invisible force fields derived from his own mind. This fusion of abilities allows him to create intricate, durable objects and protective barriers instantaneously, limited only by his imagination and mental focus.


    -Effects:


    1.Manifestation and Shape Manipulation: Ricky can materialize psychic energy into solid, intricate objects or powerful weapons, manipulating their shape, size, and complexity according to his will and control them to varying degrees. These constructs can range from simple tools to complex machinery, showcasing his creativity and control.


    2.Durability and Offensive Capabilities: The constructs created by Ricky possess exceptional durability, capable of withstanding significant force and damage. By infusing his constructs with more psychic energy, the user can create cutting edges or even with enough mastery even energy blasts are possible.


    3.Defensive Capabilities and Mobility: Ricky can project invisible force fields of varying sizes and shapes, forming protective barriers, shields, or even entire domes. These force fields are highly durable and can block telekinesis, prevent mental intrusion, and shield against various physical and energy-based attacks. Additionally, he can ride these force fields, granting him aerial mobility and maneuverability in battle.


    4.Psionic Infusion and Mental Control: Ricky can infuse his constructs and force fields with his emotions or thoughts akin to programming, enhancing their potency against specific situations.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    "Sweet." Ricky commented though didn''t care to read this entire paragraph''s long detailed explanation that the system took a lot of time to think out and write just for him.


    (-_-)


    Moving onwards, Ricky rubbed his new headache before walking out of the shower to see Alexander furiously grab his head while looking at his playing cards.


    "Do you have any 3''s?" Chester asked and Alexander crumbled before handing the card that was about as big as him to the crow.


    "Do you have any eights?"


    "Chester, have I wronged you in any way to receive such cruel and undeserving punishment?" Alexander''s expression worsened as he handed another card to Chester who happily pecked it and sat it to the side.


    "Wasn''t it you who said ''In war, there are no friends only foe''s?'' when you took my ten hearts?." Chester cheekily retorted as Alexander shut his mouth.


    Ricky raised an eyebrow as he noticed the instructions for Go Fish on the side of the deck of cards as the sight triggered a familiar memory, but he quickly shook his head, pushing it aside.


    "You two want to come with me-"


    "No."


    "No."


    Ricky didn''t even get the chance to finish as his two familiars were dead set on finishing their bout against one another.


    "Please?" Ricky asked out once again only to be promptly ignored while Chester thought of his next move.


    "Fine, I didn''t want a famous war commander and a crow that can mind control people anyways." Ricky put on his clothes before opening his door to see a sitting Barko.


    "Barko, what are you doing at my door?" Ricky asked with a confused expression as Barko flinched before looking up.


    "Waiting for you, Slick." Barko quickly answered and Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "Why didn''t you come in?" Ricky peeked his head back into the room as the two of his familiars shrugged at his accusatory look.


    "I didn''t want to intrude." Barko politely spoke, making Ricky shrugged while closing the door behind him.


    Walking down the stairs, he looked down to see Lucky raising an eyebrow, sitting on his favorite chair while reading the paper.


    "Going somewhere?" Lucky asked, looking at the new dog that could seemingly talk.


    With a strange frown, he recalled the recent commotion involving one of his men, Johnny, who had told Ricky that a talking dog was looking for him.


    "Hey dog, can you really talk?" Lucky then pointed his cane at Barko who for some reason felt greatly intimidated.


    "Y-Yes, sir." Barko replied, forcing Lucky to become slightly surprised but shrugged it off as he was used to it at this point which made him sigh.


    "Not until we talk about everything I gave you yesterday." Ricky then hopped off the railing and landed on the first floor, his eyes fixed on his pops.


    Barko observed the scene and decided it would be best to wait outside for Ricky to finish his conversation and with that thought, he pranced out the door.


    "About that, I have decided-"


    "To let me join you in raiding the jewish family''s territories, I''m glad we could come to an understanding." Ricky interrupted Lucky who scrunched his eyebrows, setting down his paper.


    "Slick listen, I know that I''ve been hard on you and I see my faults, but let''s re-evaluate your position after the fact-"


    "You''ve got to be sh*tting me, YOU''VE GOT TO BE SH*TTING ME!" Ricky scoffed at first, only to burst out in anger in the next iteration of the sentence.


    "I LITERALLY GAVE YOU THE ENTIRE JEWISH OPERATION AND YOU''RE GONNA F*CKING SIDELINE ME AGAIN!" Ricky laughed out in disbelief, unable to believe that he was doing it again.


    "And you did a good job after going behind my back after I gave you an ORDER to sit still." Lucky brought up the fact but Ricky didn''t care to see the reason within his words.


    "I''VE EARNED THIS-"


    "YOU''VE EARNED NOTHING!" Lucky interrupted Ricky, standing up and pointing his cane at him.


    "EVERYTHING YOU''VE GOTTEN WITHIN THIS FAMILY IS BECAUSE I GAVE IT TO YOU!" Lucky had enough with this outburst as Ricky gritted his teeth.


    "YOU PRANCE AROUND LIKE SOME ARROGANT PRINCE IN MY KINGDOM, EXPECTING TO BE GIVEN EVERYTHING YOU WANT. AND WHEN YOU''RE NEEDED FOR ACTUAL WORK, YOU JUST SHRUG IT OFF." Lucky laughed out, essentially telling Ricky he was too irresponsible for this operation.


    Ricky stood there for a moment, gritting his teeth at the unfairness of the situation.


    Deep down, he felt he didn''t deserve this criticism, but he also knew Lucky had a point.


    From Lucky''s perspective, Ricky had only benefited the organization either by accident or when it was convenient for him.


    Lucky saw Ricky as too immature to handle that part of the work but the problem was that Lucky was so focused on his own viewpoint that he failed to recognize the value of Ricky''s actions, while Ricky had only tried to prove his worth by working behind Lucky''s back.


    It had unknowingly created a struggle between them, making it difficult for each to understand the other.


    "Then listen to me pops, the jewish mob have vampires and ghouls at their side-"


    "Slick stop f*cking with me-"


    "It''s the truth!" Ricky realized how unrealistic it must have sounded to Lucky and tried to explain, but the man in front of him was too stubborn for his own good.


    "Enough, we''ll talk about this after this is all said and done." Lucky held up his hand, signaling that he wouldn''t delve deeper into the topic anymore.


    Ricky stood there for a moment, knowing that Lucky genuinely wouldn''t care to listen and once Lucky raised his hand, it was a clear sign he wouldn''t acknowledge anything further.


    "Where are you going?" Lucky asked again, but this time his mood was tense as he watched Ricky walk towards the door.


    "I thought I would bring some of our family to the circus since I had so much fun with Maria''s." Ricky subtly gestured towards Lucky who immediately understood.


    Despite their recent transgressions, Lucky thought it would be beneficial for Ricky to blow off some steam.


    Lucky waved at him, giving him his permission to use the family, Ricky storming out of the house and slamming the door behind him.


    *BAM*


    "I need a drink." Lucky shook his head, pinching the bridge of his nose at his onsetting headache.


    "Hey Slick are you okay-"


    "I''m fine." Ricky waved Barko''s worries away though he still wore them on his sleeve.


    Ricky walked out to see a handful of cars waiting outside, waving his finger to round them up before opening the door and gesturing to Barko.


    "Let''s go save Chores."


    However as Ricky and Barko went to the freak show, Lucky was looking throughout his wine cellar with scrunched brows.


    "That little sh*t, he stole my good wine again!" Lucky frowned though instead of simply letting it be, he started limping with his cane all the way to Ricky''s room.


    ''I got to beat some sense into him later-" Lucky opened his door only to see the weirdest sight that he''d come across to date.


    In his eyes, what played out was the sight of both a small gerbil and a lone crow playing go fish while the gerbil squeaked out complaints the entire time.


    His mind sort of froze, unable to process the peculiar situation unfolding before him though simply did the only reasonable thing to do at this moment.


    *Click*


    ''....."


    Lucky closed the door until he opened it one more time to see the gerbil throwing a fit as the crow patted him with his wing.


    ''Let''s settle for some cheap whiskey.''


    45 minutes later,


    Ricky pulled up to the circus only to see them starting to pack up while Barko started barking anxiously.


    "WE NEED TO GO NOW-"


    "Calm down Barko, they ain''t going nowhere." Ricky patted Barko''s head before getting out of the car with the members of the Luciano family who wanted to make an impression to Ricky, following behind him.


    "The freak show is closed-YOU!" Raymond had a stern tone as he was about to show them away until he saw Barko at Ricky''s side.


    *BAM*


    *COUGH*


    As Raymond approached, Ricky''s fist shot out like a piston, striking him square in the stomach.


    The force of the blow knocked the wind out of Raymond, and he crumpled to the ground, gasping for air.


    Ricky wasted no time, grabbing Raymond by the collar and hurling him to the ground with a resounding thud.


    Raymond coughed incessantly, each breath a struggle as he glared up at Ricky, his eyes burning with anger and pain.


    Meanwhile, Ricky remained unfazed, his gaze scanning the surroundings, seemingly indifferent to Raymond''s suffering.


    "WHAT WAS THAT FOR-"


    *BAM*


    Ricky didn''t respond with words and instead, he did a little hop forward, his foot arcing up in a swift kick that landed square on Raymond''s jaw.


    The impact reverberated through the air with a sharp crack, sending Raymond sprawling backward, stunned and dazed.


    "The punch was for not even acknowledging me and the kick was raising your voice to me." Ricky promptly instructed since although he came for other matters, he needed to show the men behind him that he wasn''t one to be pushed around.


    "Now, I''m going to ask you a question and you better answer, got it." Ricky bent down to the horrified Raymonds level.


    "Where''s Chores?"


    "CHORES!" Carl burst into the tent as Chores looked up from his book in confusion.


    "What is it-"


    "A BUNCH OF THUGS ARE BEATING UP RAYMOND, GO OUT THERE AND STOP THEM!" Carl didn''t even plead but basically demanded Chores to do something though he didn''t need to wait long as Chores rushed out of the tent.


    "If you don''t answer in the next second then you''ll have trouble walking with no legs." Ricky poked at his still attached legs, making Raymond flinch.


    "Chores is-"


    "HEY, GET OUT OF HERE!" Chores barreled into Ricky''s view as he rushed towards him.


    "Chores!" Ricky and Barko said in unison though the smiles were only short term as Chores clearly wasn''t listening.


    Chores was a gentle giant, but even giants had their breaking points and his way of relieving stress was dealing with people like Ricky, who always tried to extort their circus.


    However, he would soon learn that Ricky wasn''t your average thug.


    Right now, Chores was running like a bull seeing red and with every step, the ground shook violently under his massive frame.


    *BOOM*


    Chores collided with the psionic wall that Ricky suddenly put up, the sheer force from Chores enough to cause a slight booming sound.


    "Chores calm down." Ricky tried to ease Cores though still controlled and wrapped his psionic wall around Chores while somewhat caging him akin to a wild animal.


    "LET ME OUT!" Chores felt claustrophobic, the invisible walls caving in as he flexed his muscles.


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    Punch after punch, Chores unleashed a frightening force with every fist he slammed into the metal cage surrounding him.


    The impact was so intense that the very air inside the mental barrier rippled with each blow as he continued to pummel the cage, Chores grew increasingly agitated.


    "Damn." Ricky whispered, wincing slightly as he felt the strain within his brain intensify, gritting his teeth against the discomfort.


    "DAMMIT CHORES LOOK!" Ricky slammed the letter into the barrier and right in front of the furious Chores who didn''t read it at first until he recognized the handwriting.


    Slowly, Chores'' punches slowed until he was motionless, the only moving parts of him were his eyes which shrunk as he felt his knees wobble, and he dropped to the floor, finally gazing up.


    "This-......this isn''t real, tell me it''s not real." Chores spoke in an exasperated tone until he saw Barko slowly walk up in front of him.


    "Chores, I grabbed it before Carl and Raymond could burn it." Barko confessed towards the heartbroken Chores who felt his whole world crumble.


    "Can I-"


    "Of course." Ricky saw him reaching for the letter and dropped the barrier while carefully handing his mother''s goodbye letter to him, stepping back a ways to give him his moment.


    My Lovely Son,


    As I sit down to write this letter, my heart is heavy with the weight of the words I must convey. I want you to know how much I love you, more than words can ever express. It is with a deep sense of sorrow and acceptance that I write to say goodbye, for I have been told that my time on this Earth is drawing to a close. The doctors have informed me that my condition has worsened, and I won''t live past the week.


    I want you to remember that my love for you is boundless, unending, and eternal. From the moment you were born, you brought an indescribable joy into my life. Watching you grow, learn, and become the remarkable person you are today has been the greatest privilege and blessing. Your kindness, your laughter, and your love have filled my days with meaning and purpose.


    I want you to find strength in the love we shared and the memories we created together. Remember the bedtime stories I used to tell you, the picnics in the park, and the quiet moments we spent together, just talking and laughing. Hold on to those moments, for they are the essence of our bond, and they will live on in your heart long after I am gone.


    I am immensely proud of the person you have become. You are strong, compassionate, and filled with a zest for life that I have always admired. I have no doubt that you will continue to grow and thrive, making a positive impact on the world just as you have in my life. Embrace each day with the same enthusiasm and love for life that you have always shown, and you will find the strength to face the challenges that come your way.


    I want you to promise me something, my dear child. Promise me that you will cherish the good times and learn from the challenging ones. Embrace life with all your heart, and never be afraid to love deeply, for love is the most beautiful and powerful force in the universe.


    Please know that my love will always surround you, guiding you, protecting you, and giving you the courage to face whatever lies ahead. Though I may not be physically present, I will live on in your heart, in the lessons I have imparted, and in the love that will always connect us.


    You are my precious child, and I am eternally grateful for the gift of being your mother. Thank you for filling my life with love, laughter, and countless beautiful memories. As I leave this world, I do so with a heart full of love and gratitude for the time we shared.


    With all my love, now and forever,


    Your Mother, Sandy.


    "Momma~" Chores broke down, tears streaming down his cheeks as he gripped the letter tightly to his chest.


    His mother was his rock, and with her passing, the core of his heart had shattered, pieces splintering across his being.


    But the worst part, the thing that would tug at his heartstrings until the end of his time, was one thing.


    He didn''t get to say goodbye.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Chores let out a wail, unable to contain the sorrow that engulfed him.


    Even the members of the Luciano family paid their respects since despite their ruthlessness, the Luciano family''s familial values were ingrained in each and every one of them and they knew that they would act the same way if they were in Chores'' shoes.


    "WHAT ARE YOU DOING CHORES GET THEM-"


    "SHUT UP!" Chores roar caused Carl to stop dead in his tracks as the emotional man looked at him with bloodthirsty eyes.


    "You knew, you knew my mother was on her deathbed and yet." Chores voice instead of growing louder in rage, grew quieter as slowly stood up before handing the letter to Barko who quietly understood.


    "You said nothing." Chores eyes stared into Carl''s soul, enshrouding the weak man with a sense of fear that no one on this earth had managed to impart on him, the fear of death.


    "Chores listen I-" Carl stammered out, trying to reason only to see Chore''s uncaring in his entire presence.


    "My mother was a sweet soul that could do no wrong, yet, she was even wrong about one thing." Chores'' voice then dropped to an unfathomable coldness, becoming icy in an instant as it also dropped in volume.


    Slowly, he walked towards Carl who fell to his knees knowing there was no escape and only mercy.


    "I was never a forgiving person." Chores loomed over Carl''s panic and fear, he could see the semblance for mercy in the weak''s man''s eyes but felt sick to his stomach at the thought of forgiving him.


    "You think-.......YOU THINK YOU CAN SURVIVE WITHOUT ME, YOU THINK YOUR ANYTHING WITHOUT MY CIRCUS? YOU''RE JUST A FREAK AND EVERYONE WILL-"


    "No, if Chores kills you right here he''ll get away with it." Ricky suddenly interrupted Carl''s last words, causing him to go pale.


    "You said your name was Slick, right?" Chores asked Ricky who flashed him a wide smirk.


    "The one and only." Ricky spread his arms as Chores showed an appreciative look.


    "Can I do-"


    "Whatever you want, maul, kill, lynch, only the heavens will see whatever you decide to do to that man." Ricky chuckled with a lighthearted shrug, Chores eyes flicking to Carl''s shivering figure.


    "Then I''ll thank you in advance." Chores then looked into Carl''s eyes, and all the ringmaster saw was a hollow and unforgiving gaze.


    "Boys!" Ricky turned around to the members laying in wait.


    "Take everything and leave only ashes, anything you find belongs to you so go wild!"


    Ricky''s announcement was met with the brutal display of the Luciano family taking everything of value from the freak show.


    They stripped the show bare, not even sparing the metal outlining the nearby train cars.


    The tents that remained after the mobsters looted all their internal possessions were soon set ablaze, casting an eerie glow as the acts of the freak show ran around in confusion.


    These acts couldn''t escape the cruelty of the mobsters as everything was taken from them until they were lucky enough to be left with only their own clothes.


    However, amidst all the cruelty, Chores'' actions stood out as the heartache and pain of losing his mother were taken out on Carl and Raymond.


    Chores wanted to make Carl feel the heartache and helplessness he had felt when reading his mother''s goodbye letter.


    So instead of ending him first, he grabbed Raymond, his large hands gripping around Raymond''s right arm before he ripped it off his torso.


    Blood and screams immediately filled the air as the piercing agony continued amidst the hellish background.


    Consumed by rage, Chores tore Raymond limb from limb, even thrusting his fist into his chest cavity to remove each of his organs.


    Chores had always held himself as a proper man, raised that way by his mother.


    But in this moment, and only this moment, he had lost his way and although knew his mother wouldn''t approve of his actions.


    It was because of Carl and Raymond that he''d never get to see that face of disapproval, or that face that looked at him as if he could do wrong, because she was gone.


    "P-Please no." Carl shook his head, tears and his own bodily movements acting up as a clear yellow stain appeared on his white pants.


    Chores didn''t respond as his shadow slowly started to consume Carl''s figure, his hands reaching out towards him slowly so as to ingrain this very sense of helplessness into the ringmaster''s soul.


    "NO, PLEASE CHORES-AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    His screeches clouded the area as Chores slowly tore the flesh from Carl''s body, trying his best to prolong his pain.


    After the screams finally vanished, Chores stood over Carl''s disembodied body, looking up into the night sky and feeling as empty as the dark sky which didn''t hold a single star.


    ''I''m sorry momma.'' Chores then closed his eyes as although his mother walked along the path of a saint, he knew he''d walk down the path of damnation.


    "Feel better Chores?" Ricky tried to keep a smile and not gag at the horrifying mess to the side, seeing Chores covered in blood and guts.


    "No." Chores muttered out in deep sadness, gazing at his bloody hands as his actions started to settle in.


    Looking to the side, Ricky saw Barko ducking his head in heartache at what had become of Chores.


    In Barko''s eyes, Chores had always been a passionate and forgiving person, but the bloodied man before him now seemed like a lost and hollow shell of the person he once knew.


    "Seeing as you both don''t have anywhere left to go, would you two like to come work for me?" Ricky asked as Barko''s tail slowly started wagging while Chores simply nodded.


    Chores had literally nothing to his name and nowhere to go back to, so he seized the first opportunity that appeared.


    "Will I actually get paid a fair wage? Maybe even a lab to continue my research?" Barko asked, trying his hardest to not focus on the smell of Carl''s bowels lingering at the side.


    "You''ll have to earn the lab, but I will pay you a fair wage with real money." Ricky twisted Barko''s offer, but it was enough for him.


    "Deal!" Barko hopped up and down in excitement.


    Ricky honestly was only bringing Barko along since he thought it would be good for his future strong arm to have something to tie him down with.


    Ricky could tell that Chores was on the verge of drifting aimlessly through life as he thought it would be better for him to have something rather than nothing.


    "What about you Chores, anything you want in particular?" Ricky asked with a smile, holding in the gag but Chores simply ducked his head.


    "No, I have no desires at the moment." Chores let out a depressive wave that even made Ricky uncomfortable.


    "Well, first things first, let''s get you cleaned up."


    2 hours later,


    "Good job, Chores." Ricky patted Chores on the back, gazing at all of the multitude of things now in his storage space.


    Ricky decided to move the two of them into Dutch''s previous stash house, which still contained his body.


    Ricky had some men take care of the body while Chores moved the stash into his storage space.


    Ricky was initially confused about how to use the space, but after understanding that he simply needed to unlock the air itself, the space opened up.


    The storage space didn''t initially let Chores in, but after Ricky gave him permission, he started doing his first job for him: moving all of the money, guns, drugs, and everything else in between into the space.


    "Here, split it between the both of you." Ricky grabbed one of the wads of money in the storage space and threw it to Chores.


    Chores eyes widened as this amount was probably more than he''d ever made while in the freak show.


    "Use that to buy stuff to furnish the apartment or don''t, I don''t care." Ricky then closed the storage space and turned to the shock Chores and drooling Barko.


    "Get situated cause I''ll be needing you soon." Ricky walked towards the door with a serious expression.


    It was becoming a pattern, but Ricky knew he needed to work behind Lucky''s back to confront the real threat lurking in the shadow of the Jewish mob.


    "Slick this is-" Chores hurriedly looked up, a little shell shocked by this amount of money.


    "Not enough, I know but I need the rest for my club."


    *BAM*


    Ricky closed the door behind him leaving the baffled two of Chores and Barko to themselves though pieces of Dutch still hung on the walls to keep them company.


    "Too much."

 Chapter 42: John D. Rockefeller

    Chapter 42: John D. Rockefeller


    The next day,


    *BAM*


    "WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE!" Ruth screeched, hitting Ricky''s locker shut as the furious pampered girl appeared before his eyes.


    "Good morning to you to-"


    *SLAP*


    "HOW COULD YOU!" Ruth screeched, her face contorting in anger..


    Ruth had walked into the halls with a smile that seemed to outshine the earth itself, prancing about as if she was mother gaia herself, but everything changed quickly.


    As she strutted down the halls, whispers began to circulate, and all eyes turned towards Ruth in a ruthless display.


    Her victorious smile slowly vanished as rumors of her being ''loose'' and a ''harlot'' reached her ears.


    Upon finally realizing that everything seemed to be out of place, she grabbed the first girl she saw and threatened her to spill the details.


    As promised, Henry had used his connections to spread the rumor that he and Ricky had concocted after school the day before, and by morning, it had quadrupled in size.


    For all of these kids who wanted to ruthlessly knock down this ice queen down a peg, they latched onto it like hungry hyena''s.


    Everyone in the school seemed to be talking about it, even the teachers couldn''t help but give their two cents about whether it was true or not.


    And like high schoolers do, the rumor had started to be over exaggerated, growing from involving three guys to encompassing all the guys in the school.


    "Ruth you need to calm down-" Ricky raised his hands, seeing that Ruth was seconds from exploding into a tirade of rage.


    "ARE YOU DEAF, I OWN YOU, YOU''RE MINE, AND YOU DON''T DO ANYTHING WITHOUT MY PERMISSION!" Ruth''s entitlement spiraled out of control as she demanded Ricky to fall in line, seemingly on the verge of a nervous breakdown.


    "Ms. Steffield, what do you think you''re doing!" Ms. Collins demanded as she roamed the halls in an effort to quench the rumors on Ruth''s behalf, only to see this shocking scene unfold.


    "SHUT UP, HE''S MY TOY AND I CAN DO WHATEVER I WANT WITH HIM, LOOK!" Ruth went to slap Ricky only for him to catch the hand.


    "Ruth calm down, I''m not your-"


    *SLAP*


    Ricky allowed her to slap his other cheek with her other hand, making her look even worse. He could have easily blocked her, but he chose not to since it benefited him more.


    "RUTH!" Ms. Collins dropped the formalities and rushed over to Ruth, pushing her away so that she couldn''t hit Ricky anymore.


    "What has gotten into you-"


    Ms. Collins tried to reprimand her only to have Ruth''s slap, intended for her, be caught by Ricky.


    "Ruth stop-"


    "STOP TALKING BACK TO ME, YOU''RE MY SLAVE, MY TOY, YOU AND EVERYBODY ELSE ARE JUST MY TOYS!" Ruth started having a full blown rage fueled panic attack as everyone gasped at the overreaction.


    Never in her four years had Ruth shown anything other than a smile and seeing this made literally everyone, including members of the skull and bones society, shocked to say the least.


    "Ruth calm down-"


    "SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP!" Ruth jerked her hands away from Ricky before falling to the ground, starting a tantrum.


    Her arms, legs, and body flailed on the ground as she let out entitled screams, all for the benefit of her audience.


    Only when a handful of staff carried her out did she finally leave, attacking whoever tried to touch her.


    Ruth''s parents were obviously called, and her father, Harry Steffield, angrily burst into the school before stomping into the principal''s office.


    Screams and shouts echoed from the office as the principal could do nothing except listen to the whole tirade, slowly uncovering the reasoning behind Ruth''s personality.


    During all this, Ricky was escorted to the waiting area outside the principal''s office, where he waited with Ms. Collins by his side until he was called in.


    "Thank you, Ricky." Ms. Collins quietly thanked Ricky for protecting her in the face of the unbridled privilege that was Ruth.


    "It''s no problem, Ms. Collins." Ricky held up his hand as if to say it was alright, and Ms. Collins sat down in the chair next to him.


    "Are you okay?" Ms. Collins placed a hand on his shoulder though Ricky still showed a smile.


    "I''m fine Ms. Collins." Ricky thought of using his skill to flood this hallway but he wanted to use it later today so he held off for later.


    *Sigh*


    Ricky heard a heavy sigh and instinctively looked up to see Lucky with a disgruntled expression, staring plainly at him.


    "I didn''t-" Ricky tried to explain only for Lucky to pinch his nose.


    *Sigh*


    Lucky didn''t say anything as he plopped down on a seat across from Ricky, his expression stern.


    "Mr. Luciano-" Ms. Collins tried to speak on behalf of Ricky but Lucky wasn''t having it.


    "Quiet doll face." Lucky pointed his cane at Ms. Collins and shut her mouth immediately before slowly turning the cane to Ricky.


    "What should I do with you? Honestly Ricky, you literally cannot keep yourself out of trouble even if your life depended on it." Lucky let out a tired sigh as Ricky held up a hand.


    "When am I ever going out and causing trouble-"


    "Yesterday."


    "...." Ricky really fell into that one, having literally destroyed a circus yesterday and naturally, Lucky had found out about it.


    Lucky only had to say one word to stop his son''s blabbering as he rubbed his eyes, knowing that this had to be another one of Ricky''s stupid endeavors.


    *Click*


    "Mr. Luciano, Ricky, could you please come in." Under Lucky''s watchful eye, the principal opened and requested, prompting Lucky to let out one more sigh before sitting up.


    As he walked in, he immediately received an intimidating and hateful glare from Harry. However, the Mafia boss didn''t even blink and sat down.


    Ricky didn''t immediately walk in, instead, he looked around until he saw Henry in the distance as he gave him a slight nod, causing Henry to nod back.


    "Is this him? IS THIS THE BAS-" Harry immediately looked towards the door, seeing Ricky in the doorway.


    "Watch your tone Harry Steffield." Lucky promptly spoke as Harry halted his voice before realizing who this was in front of him.


    "So my little girl truly fell for a thug." Harry snarled at the two of them who were mirroring each other with an uncaring expression.


    "Principal, there is a misunderstanding here since me and Ruth have never done anything-" Ricky tried to be the one to explain but Ruth wasn''t having any of it.


    "WE MADE LOVE RICKY, I FELT YOU INSIDE OF ME!" Ruth screamed, patting her belly as Harry showed a horrified look.


    "Ruth!"


    "Daddy it''s true! Yesterday, me and Ricky made love and he came-"


    "STOP! STOP!" Harry put his hands over his ears, since no father wanted to hear the foul things coming out of their daughter''s mouth..


    "Did you lay your hands on my daughter yesterday because if you did, you''ll take responsibility for it." Harry''s voice was cold as he turned to Ricky with an accusing glare.


    "No sir, I was with Henry yesterday picking out a new car he promised-"


    "LIAR, HE''S LYING!" Ruth screeched at him but Lucky only raised an eyebrow, turning towards Ricky.


    "Wait, that''s where you got that new ford?" Lucky asked since he had seen that same ford parked outside the mansion.


    "I didn''t tell you, did I? My good friend, Henry Ford II, gifted me a car yesterday." Ricky said his full name on purpose as Lucky raised his eyebrows along with a smile.


    "Now I see why this school was so important to you-"


    *BAM*


    "THIS IS SERIOUS!" Harry slammed his fist on the principal''s desk, angered that the two of them were so carefree.


    "Sir, I couldn''t have done anything with Ruth that day if I literally spent it picking out another car-"


    "LIAR! LIAR! DADDY MAKE HIM MARRY ME!" Ruth stood up, pointing at Ricky while stomping her feet as Lucky frowned side-eyeing Ricky who shrugged.


    "Where is this Henry Ford, tell him to come here and clear my son''s name." Lucky gestured as the principal nodded, walking out into the hall before returning with Henry.


    "Henry, tell me everything." Harry came in front of the young man with an intimidating expression though the teenager wasn''t the least bit perturbed.


    "Of course, Mr. Steffield let me start from the beginning-"


    Henry then went on to explain the cover story that Ricky and he had come up with, accurately citing the other three men as being involved with Ruth.


    "HENRY YOU BASTARD!" Ruth screeched, clawing at Henry''s face only to have her held back by her own father.


    "W-We need to go." Harry had a pale expression on his face as he started to slowly believe Henry instead of his delusional daughter after hearing it all.


    Though Harry would still need to do his own investigation, he needed to do damage control and take his daughter out of here.


    "This isn''t over." Harry looked at Lucky and Ricky before storming out with Ruth on his shoulders as she screamed at RIcky.


    "YOU''LL BE MINE, ONCE GRANDPA HEARS OF THIS YOU''LL BE MINE!" Ruth screeched out as she was forcefully pulled out of the office.


    "What a crazy b*tch." Lucky stood up for the first time, actually believing that his son was the victim in this.


    Though Ricky held off on telling him, knowing that if he did, his father would definitely lock him in their house and throw away the key, which would halt his plans to quash the vampires.


    "Ricky, we''ll hash this out so you and Henry should go back to class." The principal dismissed the two who walked out of the classroom.


    "Remember Ricky, you''ll eventually meet the most powerful person in the world so be careful." Henry was a little nervous for Ricky though he waved him off.


    "He''s only an old man, how scary can he be?"


    1 hour later,


    At a private hospital, two people stood in the empty but fully staffed waiting room as Harry was one of them.


    "How bad is it?" The other man dryly spoke as Harry bit his lip.


    "I had my people in the school contact me and they said there''s rumors that Ruth has been sleeping around with multiple guys-"


    *Bam*


    "Nonsense." The old man slammed his hand on the chair.


    "My grandaughter isn''t a harlot-"


    The old man was about to say something until he saw the doctor who he had paid way too much money for discretion, walked out from behind the curtain.


    "Mr. Rockefeller." The doctor slightly bowed to the most powerful man who almost took control of the entirety of America.


    John D. Rockefeller.


    "How is she? That man didn''t do anything to her?" Rockefeller asked as the doctor rubbed his forehead.


    "Mr. Rockefeller I swear on my family I ran all of the tests and-"


    "Shut up boy and get on with it." Rockefeller scoffed while already angry about the bad news he was about to hear.


    "Ruth is pregnant, which is impossible to happen in a day." The doctor unknowingly proved Ricky''s innocence as this was Ricky''s last plan.


    The unnatural and weirdest skill he had, Apex Fertility, a skill that defied all logic, was used as his biggest strength.


    In reality, all it took was for Ricky to bust one load inside any girl, and she would become pregnant that same day.


    This was unheard of in the medical field and something that wouldn''t make sense unless someone saw the system.


    Even if logic played a role, could anyone truly judge such a skill through the lens of normalcy, considering all the complexities of this world?


    Harry widened his eyes, and Rockefeller showed a scowl as only one thought permeated in their minds.


    ''My granddaughter is a harlot.''


    4 hours later,


    Ricky exited the school to find multiple black cars and men in suits waiting outside, but they weren''t mobsters.


    The back window of the middle car rolled down, revealing Rockefeller sitting in silence as he slowly turned to Ricky.


    "Get in." Rockefeller''s tone didn''t allow any room for debate.


    Ricky glanced to the right and saw Lucky''s bloodshot eyes watching the scene. Lucky was one of, if not the most powerful man in the criminal underworld in New York.


    However, Rockefeller''s influence covered the entirety of the country and no matter how much Lucky wanted to go out there and threaten Rockefeller, he knew that Rockefeller could literally wipe away his family in one breath.


    Ricky turned back to Rockefeller and got into the car, knowing that this was the exact moment he had been waiting for.


    Ricky wasn''t the smartest apple, but with these insane powers at his fingertips and all the useful things they could do, he would be a fool not to try to gamble with them and use them against the most powerful man.


    ''To me Chester.'' Ricky called out through his mental communication.


    Chester, who was playing cards with Alexander, jerked his head to the side before grabbing Alexander and rushing out the window.


    "NOOOOOOOOOOOO, I WAS WINNING!" Alexander tearfully mourned as they flew out of the window.


    The door was shut behind him, and the cars slowly drove away from the school, the shuttle of cars completely engulfing the roads.


    The car was dead silent as Ricky waited for literally anything to be said, yet Rockefeller remained silent for the entire drive.


    "Mr-"


    "Quiet boy."


    This would be all that Rockefeller spoke while in the car as they eventually drove to a remote town before arriving at a single worn down house, all the while Chester flew above the car with a pouting Alexander.


    Both doors opened as Rockefeller stepped out, and Ricky was basically forced into the rusted-looking house.


    Walking inside, Rockefeller slowly made his way to the dining room table, with Ricky following suit and sitting across from him.


    "You are probably wondering why we drove for two hours in complete silence to this random house in Richford, correct?" Rockefeller finally spoke an actual sentence for the first time.


    "Because of Ruth, right?" Ricky answered a question with a question as Rockeffeller slowly nodded his head.


    "Tell me everything that happened yesterday and don''t leave a single thing out."


    "Everything-"


    "Everything."


    Ricky was silent for a while as he unconsciously looked around though Rockefellar didn''t mind.


    Around thirty men, all armed to the teeth, were gathered, but Ricky wasn''t bothered by the brute force. Instead, he was contemplating what he could do to his family''s operations with this brute force.


    However, the leader of this group of bodyguards was a man with a large horn protruding from his nose, resembling what a rhinoceros might look like if transformed into human form.


    "Is he-"


    "He doesn''t matter boy, tell me everything." Rockefeller interrupted Ricky, anchoring him to reality with a heavy sigh.


    *Sigh*


    "Yesterday I went to school-"


    Ricky then began to talk about the entire situation, with Ruth pulling him aside and confessing that she had tried to kiss him, but he pushed her away.


    Ricky then lied, claiming that Ruth threatened to give him a day to break up with his girlfriend or she''d tell the whole school.


    Despite trying to paint himself in a good light, at this point, he was spewing countless words of nonsense.


    "So let me get this straight, you turned down my granddaughter and after she threatened you, the whole school suddenly heard those rumors?" Rockefeller asked as Ricky let out a dry chuckle, seeing how odd it was for these rumors to suddenly spring forth.


    "Mr. Rockefeller I can assure you that-"


    "Stop." Rockefeller held up his hands, leaned back in his chair, and closed his eyes while continuing to do this for a long time, which weirded out Ricky.


    However, when he glanced around, the guards looked as if they were used to this behavior.


    "You know, you never answered the question as to why I brought you to this house." Rockefeller opened his eyes and said firstly.


    "To scare me-"


    "No, I brought you to my childhood home." Rockefeller confessed as Ricky''s guard immediately went up as he remembered Henry''s thoughts.


    ''Rockefeller is a crafty guy, he''s ruthless but the scariest part of him is how great he is at making some let their guards down around him.''


    "When I made my first million, I bought this house four times above the asking price." Rockefeller lamented while Ricky curiously looked around.


    "Do you know why I bought this house?" Rockefeller asked as Ricky shook his head since he obviously didn''t know.


    "Growing up, this was my dad''s pride and joy, this house was everything the Rockefeller name had to it back then." Rockefeller looked around until his calm expression broke in two.


    "Disgusting isn''t it." Rockefeller then showed a scowl, reminiscing about all the tragedies he faced whilst growing up in this house.


    "My family struggled with money back then, however instead of selling the house, my bastard father was obsessed with maintaining this place and chose to make the payments on this garbage rather than feed his own family." Rockefeller looked around at the rotting walls with disgust.


    "My father was so obsessed over achieving materialistic success, he forgot what truly makes life important." Rockefeller leaned back on his chair, staring at the rotted ceilings.


    "It''s why I worked so hard at a young age, I didn''t work for money, but to ensure the well being of my family." Rockefeller then turned to Ricky, gazing sternly at them.


    "Wealth and power is nice, but blood is someone''s true legacy in this world, family is the true legacy of a Rockefeller." Rockefeller''s tone was slowly getting deadlier making even Ricky somewhat nervous.


    "Ricky, I''ll do anything for my family and even though they are a bunch of spoiled little f*ckers, there my spoiled little f*ckers, do you understand what I''m saying?" Rockefeller asked Ricky who could only frown.


    ''Chester make your way into the house, it''s time.''


    How could Ricky not recognize where this conversation was leading, since he''d experienced this conversation multiple times before?


    The fathers of the women he''d knocked up came to him and demanded that he be in their daughters'' lives, but it always ended the same way.


    "Before this conversation moves on, can we talk alone, man to man without any other glares pointed at me?" Ricky asked as Rockefeller squinted, however waved his hands as the men nodded, immediately clearing out of the one story house and giving them some much needed privacy.


    The rhino man squinted at Ricky, seemingly immovable, but Rockefeller''s own arrogance dismissed him with a simple wave as he calmly left the house.


    "Now boy, speak your mind." Rockefeller said, though bit his lip since he knew it would take a while for Chester to get here.


    "I''m not marrying her Mr. Rockefeller." Ricky dropped the bomb that made the old man squinted his eyes.


    "What did you say?" Rockefeller showed a large scowl though Ricky stood his ground.


    "I haven''t once even put my hands on your granddaughter and I know where this is going, you want to save your granddaughter''s dignity by having me cave in and marry her but I won''t." Ricky''s lying words were bold, so bold that it even threw Rockefeller off for a bit but he only let out a dry chuckle.


    Ricky decided to see if Rockefeller would even let him off the hook if he said these things though at this point it was just to humor himself.


    "I even heard she''s had relations with other guys-"


    "And?" Rockefeller interrupted Ricky as he shut his mouth with the old man''s patience slowly chipping away.


    "Why should I care or not, didn''t you say it yourself that it was because of you that this situation-"


    "This situation would''ve spiraled out of control regardless since your granddaughter would''ve dragged my name through the dirt so she could make me her trophy husband." Ricky raised his voice a little since this guy really pissed him off.


    "Do you understand how many guys would kill to marry into the Rockefeller family, my blood-"


    "Do I look like someone who cares about marrying into a old man''s loser family and also, have you ever seen the real side of your granddaughter, she''s a f*cking nightmare." Ricky finally lost his patience as he let down his formalities as he let his real side fade away.


    "Excuse me-"


    "Your excused, anyways, I''d rather hang myself than spend rest of my life married to your granddaughter." Ricky put his hand in front of Rockefeller as the latter flinched.


    Chester had speedily made his way over to the house surrounded by the guards while using vast amounts of his chakra to heighten his speed.


    Seeing the roof broken apart, he dove down as Alexander hugged his body while trying not to throw up.


    "Ha~" Rockefeller let out a genuine baffled laugh since not even the president talked to him like this.


    "Ricky or Slick or whatever they call you, I bought this house not to pay tribute to my father, but to make sure no one could ever have it so I could watch in joy as it slowly rotted away." Rockefeller''s tone became cold as Ricky squinted his eyes


    "You''re going to marry my granddaughter whether you''re the father of her bastard or not." Rockefeller demanded, squinting his eyes with an immense coldness in his eyes.


    "If you don''t, I''ll not only crush that little gang of your adoptive father''s, but dismantle it piece by piece until you watch it rot away from a comfortable distance." Rockefeller''s voice was assertive, telling Ricky exactly how he would do so.


    "And in that comfortable distance you''ll be interlocked with my granddaughter, raising her bastard baby, and all the while being stringed along like the puppet I''ll make you." Rockefeller''s words even started to make Ricky uncomfortable though continued.


    "Do you understand?" Rockefeller asked, finishing his tirade as Ricky laughed slightly.


    ''Over my dead body.''


    "Ricky what is it?" Chester flew onto the table before Ricky pointed at Rockefeeller who flinched at the crow but gazed at Ricky weirdly.


    "Let me guess, you are going to use your little freak powers to do something to me, correct?" Rockefeller asked out with slight laughter only for Ricky''s face to contort.


    "How did you-"


    "How did I know, Ricky, I''m John D. Rockefeller, if I want to know about a person, I know everything about that person." Rockefeller laughed at Ricky''s naive attitude before pointing at his fingers.


    It was then that Ricky noticed the array of charms and magical objects adorning his body. Intricate amulets hung from his neck, shimmering with mystical symbols, while rings embedded with strange stones adorned his fingers.


    A talisman dangled from his belt, its ancient runes glowing faintly as each item seemed to pulse with an otherworldly energy, hinting at their powerful enchantments and the protection they offered.


    "Do you know how many forces I''ve had to deal with, boy, you have no idea what lurks within the shadows of this world." Rockefeller laughed at whatever Ricky had concocted through this mere crow.


    ''Can you do the thing you did to Dutch?'' Ricky mentally asked Chester who surveyed the man before him.


    Unlike Ricky, Chester was deeply attuned to mystic energies, as his very being was composed of such forces.


    He could sense the powerful waves of energy emanating from the old man with a profound clarity.


    However, these energies were solely radiating from the objects adorning Rockefeller''s body; he did not possess them internally.


    In reality, Rockefeller was just a man like any other.


    The only distinction was the towering mountain of skulls beneath his conquests, marking his ascent to the position where he now sat.


    ''I do not know, but I''ll try.'' Chester wasn''t entirely sure he could pierce through these protective shields, but he knew he had to make the attempt.


    "And even if it dabbles in the supernatural, do you think I could get to where I am in this terrifying world without knowing of it''s dark secrets-"


    "Do it." Ricky pointed, and Chester jerked his head to the right, making eye contact with Rockefeller right before he uttered another word.


    In the next second, both of their eyes dilated, and Ricky let out a sigh of relief, leaning back in his chair while laughing.


    "Oh thank god~" Ricky felt relieved, holding his stomach since if it worked on Abraham who hunted vampires, he was banking on it working on this senile old man.


    However, Ricky had judged too quickly; within the mindscape of Rockefeller, their battle was just beginning.


    Meanwhile in Rockefeller''s mindscape,


    Standing across from each other stood the two figures standing within the space that comprised Rockefellar''s subconscious.


    "I must say, I''m impressed that dimwit has such a capable pet." Rockefeller calmly conjured a chair, sitting on it while staring at Chester.


    "However this little charade will end now since I have much to discuss with that little fool you probably call your master." Rockefeller flicked his hand, a towering wave of energy suddenly flooding all around Chester.


    Chester seemed unfazed as he quietly observed the old man, his suspicion confirmed.


    "Impossible, these objects enforce the essence of the laws of magic-"


    "I do not adhere to the laws governing this energy and thus will not bend to your attempts." Chester interrupted, meeting Rockefeller''s gaze directly.


    "You are a magical creature-"


    "No, I am a being of chakra, not bound by this energy you call magic." Chester clarified politely. Rockefeller''s eyes remained steady as he scrutinized Chester.


    "Then how is it that my talismans and artifacts are powerless against you within my own mind?" Rockefeller inquired but didn''t panic although was clearly perplexed by the situation.


    It didn''t make sense to Rockefeller since Chester shouldn''t have been able to exert such control within his own mind, yet he remained unaffected by all of Rockefeller''s attempts to expel him.


    However, instead of telling Rockefeller the reason, he would never understand that Chester was astute enough not to reveal his strategy that the old man was unknowingly trapped in an illusionary construct within his own mind.


    Chester had pushed his abilities to their limits, creating an intricate illusionary mindscape entirely composed of chakra within Rockefeller''s consciousness.


    As a result, whenever Rockefeller attempted to use magic or any other form of energy, it would be absorbed and neutralized by the chakra-based illusion that had attached itself to his own subconscious.


    Chester was correct: the charms were designed to protect Rockefeller, and by embedding his own mind as a shield, Rockefeller was unable to destroy the illusion without risking the destruction of his own consciousness.


    The only reason this worked in the first place was that Rockefeller had never encountered such an energy before, and no charm existed to repel or counter Chester''s unique form of chakra, at least, not yet.


    "It doesn''t matter. Just look into my eyes and forget everything." Chester said slowly, coating Rockefeller as he stood from his seat and walked towards the floating Chester.


    "I''ve faced the devil himself and he blinked. Do you truly think I''ll fold?" Rockefeller''s mind was a fortress of willpower, a realization that struck Chester at that moment.


    Compelling someone of Rockefeller''s strength was nearly impossible, leaving Chester with only one option.


    "I suppose you''re right." Chester conceded with a nod. Rockefeller''s lips curled into a smile.


    "Now, let-"


    "I won''t be able to compel you outright, so I''ll have to break and fracture your mind until it succumbs to my influence." Chester said, his gaze steady as he met Rockefeller''s eyes. The old man''s anxiety was evident in the nervous chuckle that escaped him.


    "Do you really think you can manage against my mind? Lower your barrier at once." Rockefeller demanded, puffing out his chest. Chester''s eyes glowed with swirling blue chakra.


    "Perhaps in your youth, it might have been impossible, but you''ve grown old and weak."


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Rockefeller''s sudden, ear-piercing scream cut through the air as he fell to his knees before Chester. Chester looked down at him with a cold determination.


    "That''s why I''ll be able to break you."


    Meanwhile in the real world,


    Chester exhaled softly, a small trickle of blood seeping from his beak as he staggered back slightly.


    Fracturing a mind was no simple task; it required significant backlash on his part but despite the toll, he had succeeded in breaking Rockefeller''s mind to comply with his genjutsu.


    "You alright, Chester?" Ricky asked though Chester held up a wing, signaling he was fine.


    "I am fine, merely out of practice." Chester hid his pain under his own incompetence but Ricky still patted his head.


    "I should''ve known that it wouldn''t have mattered regardless if I had evidence or not." Ricky revealed since this was his final excuse as he messed up earlier.


    Although Chester had hoped to address Rockefeller in a more isolated environment, he had wanted to see if reason would prevail with the old man.


    "Hey John, would you have made me marry Ruth even if she really asked you out of the blue one day?" Ricky asked, wanting to see how far Rockefeller would go for that spoiled brat as the old man''s pupils were dilated heavily.


    "Yes, I would have forced you to marry her since my granddaughter gets whatever she wants." Rockefeller confessed in a haze as Ricky became slack jawed.


    ''Is every daughter of a rich person spoiled rotten?'' Ricky wondered since Maria, although way more tolerable than Ruth, was also spoiled rotten and treated like a princess.


    "Geez~" Ricky let out a sigh of relief before gazing at tired Chester and a pouting Alexander.


    "After this Chester, I''ll get you whatever you want-"


    "A better bird bath, better grain, and an immense amount of peanuts." Chester spoke his demands as Ricky nodded his head while Alexander crossed his tiny arms.


    "What''s his deal-" Ricky asked Chester who let out a small sigh, knowing exactly what he was going to say.


    "You have ruined my game of go fish, I was about to vanquish Chester only to be pulled away from it at the last moment." Alexander''s face went red in anger while explaining the dilemma as Chetser smirked.


    "I guess we''ll have to start over-" Chester let out a tired chuckle but it only infuriated Alexander.


    "WE SHALL NOT!"


    "Guys, can we do this later, after I do this." Ricky gestured to the almost drooling Rockefeller as Alexander huffed in agreement.


    *Ahem*


    "Now John, when you leave today, you are finally going to grow a pair and say no to Ruth." Ricky continued as Rockefellar twitched but after Chetser expelled more chakra, he simmered down.


    "This man doesn''t seem to be in the presence of that weird energy the man called Abraham had on him, but his mental fortitude is frightening." Chester commented in slight breaths, having to keep his entire focus on this seemingly normal man.


    However with Rockefeller''s wealth and connections, he of course knew of the peculiarities of this world and made sure to arm himself with protections, especially against the supernatural.


    Rockefeller was decked head to toe in charms as well as different artifacts and if Rockfeller would''ve known that Ricky possessed a different energy that could penetrate the mind and past his defensives, he would''ve prepared more.


    But as Ricky had no way of knowing how far Rockefeller''s pockets and money went, so did the old man when it came to the vastness of his power and system.


    In reality, it all stemmed from Rockefeller''s own arrogance and his underestimation of Ricky, whom he had dismissed as a mere idiot.


    "Listen, you''re going to send her to some christian boarding school and force her to not be such a spoiled b*tch." Ricky gave out another condition as a weight in his heart let off a bit.


    "Next you''ll force your family into silence as anyone who talks about it will be shamed and kicked out of the family." Ricky issued another demand, beginning operation ''Get this crazy b*tch away from me''.


    "You''ll also stop anyone in your family at getting back at me and you''ll hold them on a tight leash before doing so." Ricky spoke as his demands were growing longer and longer.


    "Then you''ll make an excuse that you paid me off with 100,000 dollars which will be delivered to my residence." Ricky then formed a greedy smile before getting to the main topic.


    "Before I ask for my final demand, answer how much money you have that is easy to access?" Ricky asked with gold bars shining in his eyes, gazing at the walking money bags in front of him.


    "Right now out of my current holdings of over 900 million dollars, the total liquidity I have is around 27.5 million. Adding together both liquid and non-liquid accessible assets it is around 930 million." Rockefeller confessed, but even when it wasn''t even one tenth of his wealth, Ricky took in a breath of air.


    The reasoning behind this was that the amount the Luciano family made a year per Lucky''s words was around 26.5 million.


    Then after the countless bribes, salaires, and other expenses, Lucky himself was left with around a yearly salary of 2.8 million dollars though he could only clean about 1,700,000 every year.


    However, unlike the other mob bosses who frivolously spent their clean money, Lucky seldom used his funds for anything beyond reinvesting in the properties under his own name.


    It was why he was so easily able to gather the necessary seed money for the small bank he wanted to open since in total, Lucky had an emergency fund of around 10,000,000 clean money that was tightly saved which was everything to his name.


    The money he didn''t clean was used to reinvest into the family and after everything, Lucky usually came down with around 1,200,000.


    (Today money: 11,233,175.18)


    $1,200,000 was still a lot to maintain a lavish lifestyle, and Lucky also had around $4.5 million of uncleaned money stashed away in case of a secondary emergency, however, the amount that Rockefeller seemingly had stashed away was simply outrageous for Ricky considering the current time.


    (27.5 in today''s money is $630,430,474.45, no it''s not all cash)


    "How much of your current wealth could you liquidate without raising suspicion?" Ricky boisterously asked, his greed shining in his eyes.


    "My holdings are held through numerous trusts, foundations, holding companies, and on top of that I have been splitting up my various holdings in companies to my most competent children so although my wealth will reach one billion in around 1 or 2 years, the amount I actually can liquidate without raising eyebrows is around 53 million total or around an additional 25.5 millions from my already liquidated wealth." Rockefeller confessed as Ricky''s eyes widened as he started to become nervous.


    Ricky wasn''t an expert but he did understand that a million here was a sh*t ton more than it was in his past life.


    (Quick Author''s Note: For those wondering why Ricky can''t just grab all of Rockefeller''s assets, here''s a brief explanation and if you don''t care, you can skip it: First, Rockefeller is preparing for his death, and his well-known trust, which still stands today, was designed to protect his wealth from inheritance taxes and other government grabs.Second, the wealth of the rich isn''t usually in cash¡ªit''s tied up in investments, real estate, art, foundations, companies, stocks, etc. No wealthy person keeps a pile of cash or a gold swimming pool like Scrooge McDuck. Instead, they use their assets as collateral to secure loans from banks (in which they often have a significant stake) to get cash quickly for immediate needs. Finally, Rockefeller has around 200 descendants. If Ricky suddenly inherited everything, it would raise suspicions. His family would likely contest any claim to the fortune endlessly, making it impractical for Ricky to gain access to it.)


    (Also for reference 53 million dollars in 1932 = 976,815,389.22 which is a f*ck ton to ask for and the reasoning for that will be explained now.)


    "Why do you have so much money in hand?" Ricky couldn''t help but ask as there is no reason that a sensible man should have this much cash in hand.


    Most of someone''s money wasn''t liquid but tied up in assets since cash depreciates but assets don''t.


    "I always keep at least $10 million in cash reserves, so I can make bribes, underhanded deals, and purchases without raising any red flags with the IRS or other government agencies. The reason for this is simple: I''m dying. When I''m gone, even the institutions I''ve lobbied for and the bills I''ve passed won''t be enough to counter the policies that that bastard Theodore Roosevelt put in place to target me. That''s why I''ve been gradually liquidating any assets that could be taxed in an effort to make a bribing slush fund for my family." Rockefeller confided in Ricky, raising an eyebrow at this perfect opportunity.


    "And your family also knows about this?" Ricky asked as he had seen a chance to not only get rich, but a chunk of the Rockefeller family''s wealth as well.


    "Yes, all of the children have been assisting and covering for me as I did it." Rockefeller smoothly spoke as a lightbulb popped above his head.


    "Alright, do you have any places that only you and no one in your family knows about?" Ricky asked and Rockefellar nodded in a daze.


    "I have a remote farm in upstate New York that I use as a place to get away from all my family." Rockefeller answered as Ricky rubbed his chin greedily.


    "How many people know about it and how many of them do you trust?"


    "Ten." Rockefeller said as Ricky had a toothy smile.


    "How long will it take to move all that liquidated money to the farm?" Ricky then got to the final question with eager eyes.


    "Seven years."


    "W-What?"


    "The current $27.5 million I have in liquidity will take about four months to collect from all the locations where it''s held. Another eight months will be needed to transport it covertly without drawing any attention. This is the result of eight years of carefully funneling money through various holding companies to amass such a sum while minimizing taxes. It will take-"


    "Alright wait, before we do anything, transport the 27.5 million while starting the process for the other 25.5." Ricky made a command and it was suggested into Rockfeller''s brain as it reworded to follow the plan.


    "Then we''ll meet after a year-"


    "Ricky, Genjutsu doesn''t work like that." Chester finally chimed in once Ricky was done while dosing his summoner with a cold bucket of reality.


    "What do you mean?"


    "Genjutsu, although extremely effective on individuals without chakra, will have an easier time being swayed but it still needs to be reapplied or it will wear off." Chester informed Ricky who let out a sigh since he wished it was even easier than it was now.


    "Then how long will it stay?" Ricky asked as Chetser thought about it for a while.


    "Around a month if I use all the chakra I have at this moment and strain myself, however it will take one to two weeks for me to recover to full strength to keep this suffocating Genjutsu working, meaning I won''t be able to cast other Genjutsu in that time." Chester informed Ricky, the cheat he had just now started to utilize had seemingly up and vanished.


    Ricky didn''t understand since he knew nothing about Genjutsu, but suggestive and hypnotized Genjutsu was vastly more chakra consuming and way more sophisticated than the regular illusions.


    These sorts of Genjutsu really only worked on people weaker than Chester which Rockefeller so happens to be since although he is vastly more influential than the common human, he is really only human without all his little knick knacks.


    "There are also effects meaning that any stimulation or energy above my own Genjutsu will break the Genjutsu and they will remember everything though I''ll know when it''s broken." Chester informed Ricky as he nodded but ultimately shrugged.


    "Fine, John, make sure to meet me at this house on the first day of each month, got it?" Ricky said to Rockefeller who hazily nodded along.


    "Alright Chester, I promise to make your life the most comfortable one a bird has ever seen if you help me with this." Ricky''s eyes shone and Chester thought about it but sighed.


    Chester gazed at Rockefeller, his eyes dilating until they nearly reached the edges of his eyelids, before he collapsed.


    Ricky quickly caught him, then looked at Rockefeller, who immediately drooped his head down as Ricky cradled the tired Chester in his hands.


    "Wh-What happened?" Rockefeller snapped awake as he gazed up to see RIcky holding a crow and although strange, didn''t harp too much about it.


    "You were talking about how you''d ruin my life if I ever spoke of your daughter''s premarital activities?" Ricky lied as he asked in a questioning tone, as this was his first time ever using suggestions and hypnotism on someone.


    "Ah yes, I vaguely remember it now." Rockefeller was about to retort until his subconscious suggested that he needed to agree with Ricky''s statement.


    "The 100,000 will be delivered to your residence as agreed, and Ricky." Rockefeller quickly stood up as he walked to the door but stopped.


    "I''ll destroy you if you don''t hold up your end of the deal." Rockefeller threatened as Ricky nodded aggressively.


    "Yes, sir," Ricky saluted as the old man walked out, his bodyguards following closely behind.


    "Hey, Rhino guy-" Ricky had an idea and called out,


    "My fee is $2 million a year." The Rhino guy replied without turning around as Ricky rushed over to the broken window but recoiled, realizing this wasn''t the first time someone had tried to pouch him.


    However, the Rhino guy would never leave Rockefeller''s guard detail, as it was too beneficial.


    "Have a good day, Rhino guy," Ricky said, waving as he gave up on that idea.


    The Rhino guy nodded and then helped Rockefeller into the van before the old man gave him one last scowl.


    "Ricky, be warned that I needed to create a rift in his mind," Chester said, sitting on the table as Alexander patted his feathers.


    "He might die before then, so you must be prepared." Chester''s warning was met with a casual shrug from Ricky, who turned back to the crow.


    "It''ll all work out."


    Author''s Note: I''ve been quite slow in responding and reading comments lately. However instead of addressing them now, I''ll be procrastinating until tomorrow cause I''m tired. If you have questions or need answers on other questions asked eariler in the week, I''ll get to them tomorrow. Also, I tried to ensure that my logic make sense for those who need clarity. However, if you spot any errors in my logic or it just doesn''t make sense in certain areas, please let me know, and I''ll make the necessary adjustments.

 Chapter 43: Unexpected Confrontations

    Chapter 43: Unexpected Confrontations


    Later that night,


    Ricky forgot to hypnotize Rockefeller into giving him a ride, leaving him stranded at the house.


    He had no choice but to take the train back to Brooklyn but before boarding public transport, he attempted to use his new X-Gene enhancement to fly all the way back, with disastrous results.


    Although he could envelop himself in the protective barrier, controlling his flight for a long period of time proved difficult, as if he were an unsteady fledgling.


    Short distances were manageable, but flying for extended periods was a different story for Ricky.


    It felt like his mind had to juggle not only navigating his path but also maintaining control over himself within the barrier.


    If Ricky had to explain it in his own terms, it was like having an argument with your girlfriend while secretly on the phone with your side piece.


    You had to give your full attention to your girlfriend in front of you, making sure not to slip up, while simultaneously doing everything in your power to keep the other conversation under control, without letting either one catch on.


    It was a balancing act that required constant focus, and one wrong move could send everything spiraling out of control, much like his struggles with flying and keeping the barrier intact.


    This explained the multiple holes in Ricky''s dirty clothes, evidence of his repeated crashes into nearby trees and bushes.


    ''Status.''


    [Status]


    Name: Ricky Luciano


    Titles: Deadbeat, Royal Thug, Prodigal Son


    Age: 15


    Born: October, 27, 1918


    Race: Human


    Strength: 22 (Slightly above peak adult male)


    Stamina: 19 (Above average adult male)


    Vitality: 20 (Peak adult male)


    Agility: 21 (Peak adult male)


    Dexterity: 19 (Above average adult male)


    Intelligence: 6 (You''ve grown but that doesn''t mean you''re not an Idiot)


    Charm: 25 (Your charm is extremely high for your age)


    Appearance: 26 (The baby fat has melted with age and with it has surfaced your golden jawline, use it well.)


    IP: 70,000


    Gacha: 100


    [Familiars]


    Familiar:


    Chester (Favorability: 54):


    Description: The crow of Itachi who died before it could gain Shishui''s mangekyou sharingan.


    ¨CSkills:


    ¨CChunin Chakra Reserves:


    ¨CEagle Eye: Chester is able to share his sights with you though only if he wishes.


    ¨CElite Jonan Genjutsu: The Crow is adept in the art of trickery, illusion, and hypnotic suggestion.


    Alexander The Gerbil (Favorability: 25):


    Description: Alexander the great has possessed your Gerbil.


    Rare Growth Familiar: Stone Golem Core (Sentience: 0%)


    Description: A golem who grows by interacting with different stones, its growth is only progressed by the very stone it wraps around itself.


    ¨CSkills:


    (Mastery)Battle Tactics


    (Mastery)Hand-to-hand Combat


    (Mastery)Speeches


    IP Skills:


    Apex Fertility: The user''s seed will be amongst the peak in the universe and incredibly fertile as your seed can even rejuvenate the womb of a woman who cannot even give birth. All it takes is one load to impregnate any woman in an instant.


    Wet To The Touch: A skill that allows for the user to instantly make any girl wet and lubricate their insides for peak insertion.


    -Condition: Only can be used once a day.


    Promiscuous scent(Passive): 15,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Anyone who owns this skill will passively give off a scent that will make any woman who smells it feel promiscuous.


    Addicting Semen(Passive): 20,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Your Semen will become like nicotine in a sense that after having it for a while they will have withdrawals without it.


    IP Items:


    Skills:


    ¨CX Gene''s:


    (X-Gene) Psionic Fabrication: Ricky can manipulate psychic energy to fabricate solid, tangible constructs and generate invisible force fields derived from his own mind. This fusion of abilities allows him to create intricate, durable objects and protective barriers instantaneously, limited only by his imagination and mental focus.


    -Effects:


    1.Manifestation and Shape Manipulation: Ricky can materialize psychic energy into solid, intricate objects or powerful weapons, manipulating their shape, size, and complexity according to his will and control them to varying degrees. These constructs can range from simple tools to complex machinery, showcasing his creativity and control.


    2.Durability and Offensive Capabilities: The constructs created by Ricky possess exceptional durability, capable of withstanding significant force and damage. By infusing his constructs with more psychic energy, the user can create cutting edges or even with enough mastery even energy blasts are possible.


    3.Defensive Capabilities and Mobility: Ricky can project invisible force fields of varying sizes and shapes, forming protective barriers, shields, or even entire domes. These force fields are highly durable and can block telekinesis, prevent mental intrusion, and shield against various physical and energy-based attacks. Additionally, he can ride these force fields, granting him aerial mobility and maneuverability in battle.


    4.Psionic Infusion and Mental Control: Ricky can infuse his constructs and force fields with his emotions or thoughts akin to programming, enhancing their potency against specific situations.


    Full Counter: The ability to counter any non physical attack at its original user with twice the power


    Conditions:


    The user must have a conduit or weapon to reflect an attackThe user must be able to react to or swing towards an attack with the proper timing in order to reflect the attackThere must be an attack to reflect.


    ¨COther Skills:


    (Epic Skill) Lie Detection: Anyone who tells a lie in front of you will cause a sixth sense to go off in your mind signaling the falsehood of their words.


    (Epic Skill) Digital Cloaking: The power to become invisible to surveillance cameras, sensors, and other forms of electronic detection, allowing for stealthy movements in highly monitored areas.


    (Epic Skill) Intuitive Genius: This skill functions as perception, as it lets the user possess the ability to visually perceive "mechanical energy" (the kinetic energy and potential energy present in the components of mechanical systems) in action.


    -Effect: This power allows the user to instinctively know and understand the potential and functional operations of any machine or technological device in his visual range, a skill that, combined with natural intelligence, would allow the user to conceive, design, and build mechanical devices; and operate, modify, and disassemble existing technology or create countermeasures for it.


    (Epic Skill) Defensive Precognition: A heightened sense of awareness that allows the user to foresee and react to incoming threats, enhancing their ability to dodge attacks and counter adversaries.


    (Rare Skill) Green Thumb: Turn waste that won''t decompose for more than 50 years into trees.


    ¨CEffects: Works on toxic waste, plastic, rubber, and others


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Marksmanship: Above the cut of the average joe, you are able to handle anything that requires marksmanship with a solid proficiency


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Lockpicking: Able to break any standard lock and even some less advanced safes.


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Culinary Arts: Expertise in cooking and food preparation, including knowledge of various cuisines, cooking techniques, flavor combinations, and presentation skills.


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Cartography: Skill in reading and creating accurate maps, including terrain and geographical features.


    Titles:


    Deadbeat: You have increased odds to flee from the responsibilities of a child and run out like a scumbag.


    Royal Thug: You aren''t just born into the thug life but are born into the nobility of the thug life


    ¨CEffect: A ingrained respect is giving to you by all gangster, mobsters, and thugs


    Prodigal Son: Your fame has gained you considerable attention and expectations.


    ¨CEffect: Mobsters will subconsciously demand that you match their level of expectations. Failing to meet their expectations, however, will subject you to their severe judgment and negativity.


    ¨CEffect: A ingrained respect is giving to you by all gangster, mobsters, and thugs


    Items:


    (Legendary Item) Storage Space Key: A key that can be turned on any door and will lead to a 36 x 36 yard room that can have anything in the mortal plane stored in it.


    (Legendary Item) Blue Eyes White Dragon: An original Blue eyes white dragon, vintage, and sealed delicately within plastic.


    ¨CEffect: Makes all those in the vicinity tremble in fear at its mere existence alone.


    (Epic Item) Lorestone Pendant: A pendant containing the knowledge of the ancient civilization Cortaj. When worn, it grants the wearer wisdom, language proficiency, and historical insight at random.


    (Epic Growth Item) Soulbound Grimoire: A spellbook that absorbs the knowledge and abilities of the caster. As the caster learns new spells, the grimoire becomes more powerful, granting access to a wider range of magic.


    (Epic Item) Translation Ring: A ring that allows the wearer to understand and speak any language, facilitating communication with diverse cultures and species.


    (Epic Weapon) Solarflare Bow: A bow crafted from the wood of a rare, sun-blessed tree. Its arrows burst into solar flames upon release, capable of piercing through multiple enemies and setting ablaze anything they touch.


    (Epic Weapon) Vial of Aurora Borealis: When thrown, it bursts into a vivid display of colors, creating an illusionary landscape of northern lights. Within this illusion, time slows down temporarily for everyone except the user, allowing the wielder to strategize and attack swiftly while enemies are mesmerized.


    (Epic Item) Quiver of Chance: The quiver always has an arrow ready for the archer, magically replenishing itself however its effects can be a mystery. These arrows have the possibility of various effects, such as exploding on impact, seeking out targets, or passing through obstacles though they could result in a regular arrow.


    (Rare Item) Medieval Cannon: Shoots cannonballs


    (Rare Item) Cross Necklace: Makes an unholy being in the area unable to look you in the eye.


    (Rare Item) Courageous Thimble: Whoever adorned this thimble on their pinky will be able to gaze upon an army of 100,000 masters and simply laugh at the challenge.


    (Rare Item) Brass Knuckles: New Brass knuckles that are ready to bash the skulls of whoever you choose.


    -Effect: Caters its size to its user.


    Rare Item: Fine China plates


    (Rare Item) Blue Print Scanner: A projector that once it scans an object, will be able to accurately make a blueprint of it.


    (Rare Item) Forever Lasting Lighter: A lighter that will never run out of fuel no matter how much you use it.


    (Rare Item) First Aid Kit: A compact first aid kit containing bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other essentials for treating minor injuries and ailments.


    Rare Item: Grappling Hook A handheld device with a hook and rope, useful for climbing, traversing difficult terrain, or disarming opponents.


    (Uncommon Item) Stainless Steel Sporks x 23: A set of 23 durable and versatile utensils combining the functionality of a spoon and fork.


    (Uncommon Item) Empty Portraits x 2: Two finely crafted portrait frames, waiting to be filled with memories or artwork. Each frame is elegantly designed, offering a blank canvas to showcase cherished moments or creative expressions. Ideal for personalizing your living space or as thoughtful gifts.


    (Uncommon Item) Sheet''s of mint scented paper x 34: A collection of 34 pristine sheets of paper, delicately infused with a refreshing mint scent.


    (Uncommon Item) 9mm pistol: A reliable, compact firearm chambered for 9mm rounds. Known for its accuracy and ease of use, this pistol is an effective choice for self-defense or tactical situations. It comes with a standard magazine and safety features, ready for immediate use.


    (Uncommon Item) Medkits x 10: A set of 10 comprehensive medkits, each containing supplies for treating a variety of injuries and emergencies. With enough provisions to care for up to 20 people, these kits are essential for ensuring health and safety in challenging situations, whether at home, in the field, or during emergencies.


    (Uncommon Item) Stainless Steel Insulated Mug: A durable, insulated mug to keep beverages hot or cold for extended periods, ideal for coffee, tea, or cold drinks on the go. X 13


    (Uncommon Item) Collapsible Water Bowl: A collapsible bowl for pets, allowing them to drink water or eat during walks or travel, promoting their comfort and hydration. X 9


    (Uncommon Item) Self-Watering Planters: Planters equipped with a self-watering system, ensuring that indoor plants receive adequate moisture and reducing the frequency of watering. X 6


    (Uncommon Item) Stainless Steel Reusable Straw Set: A set of reusable metal straws, often accompanied by a cleaning brush and a travel pouch, reducing single-use plastic waste. X 5


    (Uncommon Item) Reading Light: A clip-on or portable reading light with adjustable brightness, allowing for comfortable reading in low-light conditions. X 3


    (Uncommon Item) Portable Clothesline: A lightweight and compact clothesline with clips or hooks, ideal for drying clothes while traveling or camping. X 4


    (Uncommon Item) Bike Repair Kit: A compact kit containing essential tools for bicycle repair, including tire levers, patch kits, and a mini pump, ensuring riders can handle common issues during bike trips. X 6


    (Common Item) Safety Whistle: An emergency whistle with a loud, piercing sound, essential for attracting attention during outdoor adventures or emergencies. X 12


    (Common Item) Foldable Travel Umbrella: A durable and compact umbrella that folds into a small size, making it easy to carry in a purse or backpack for unexpected rain. X 34


    (Common Item) Travel Spice Containers: Small, refillable containers for carrying spices and seasonings, allowing travelers to add flavor to meals while on the road. X 23


    (Common Item) Travel Sewing Kit: A compact sewing kit with threads, needles, buttons, and scissors, allowing for quick repairs on clothing and fabrics while traveling. X 7


    (Common Item) Portable Folding Chair: A lightweight and foldable chair that is easy to carry, perfect for outdoor events, picnics, or camping trips. X 8


    (Common Item) Reusable Shopping Bags: Durable, foldable bags that can be reused for grocery shopping, reducing the use of single-use plastic bags and contributing to environmental conservation. X 41


    (Common Item) Bike Lock: A sturdy bike lock to secure bicycles and prevent theft, allowing peace of mind when parking bikes in public places. X 20


    (Common Item) Cobwebs x 76: A delicate network of sticky silk threads spun by a spider, this cobweb is an emblem of neglect and time''s passage.


    (Common Item) Scented Mint Lotion x 10: Gives off the masculine scent of mint.


    (Common Item) Broken clocks x 4: Clocks that were once in use but have broken down overtime until they simply stopped working.


    (Common Item) LED flashlight: A compact, powerful light source equipped with energy-efficient LED technology.


    (Common Item) Wine Cooler: A sleek, modern appliance designed to chill and store wine at the optimal temperature.


    (Common Item) Rusted Ax: A heavy, weathered ax with a blade tarnished by rust and years of neglect.


    (Common Item) Napkins: Use it to wipe whatever is dirty. X 99


    Gazing at his system, Ricky pondered his newfound strength, letting out a deep sigh as he reflected on his recent haste.


    Ever since escaping those ghouls, he realized he wasn''t the only big fish in the pond in New York.


    While still incredibly powerful, he wanted more.


    At heart, Ricky had always been greedy, and despite the system tempting him with strength over lustful actions, he simply couldn''t resist anymore.


    He knew he was rushing things, that this system might have ill intentions, but circumstances continued to force his hand.


    Now, with the continuous additions of skills and the evolution of his X gene, Ricky felt more confident leaving him finally trusting the system more.


    ''I need to stop being an idiot and start using these items.'' Ricky wasn''t perfect and due to his uncaring nature, he tended to ignore different aspects and after seeing the multiple items he could wield, he started to tell himself he''d use them more.


    Particularly the ''Solarflare Bow'' Ricky saw this weapon but with the new addition of ''Quiver of Chance'' he was sure to use it.


    Ricky had never used a bow, but if he had to use a weapon then it wouldn''t be a sword since he always thought they were pretty dorky.


    Actually growing up, he wanted to be like Robin Hood, only instead of stealing from the rich and giving to the poor, he''d keep the spoils for himself.


    However, what truly unsettled Ricky was his intelligence stat as unlike the other stats that seemed to improve effortlessly, his intelligence stubbornly refused to change.


    This stagnation slowly started to bother him, actually pondering whether or not the system would even give him intelligence points or if he had to manage it all on his own.


    ''Don''t tell me I have to study or ready books-''


    "Is this spot taken?" A voice called out, snapping Ricky from his thoughts as he looked up, then immediately scoffed.


    "Yes it''s taken." Ricky said though much to his annoyance, looked at Dewey, who acted as if he didn''t hear him and sat him down in front of him.


    "I am Thomas E. Dewey, the new district attorney in Brooklyn and I was wondering if I could talk to you for a second Slick or may I call you Ricky?" Dewey showed a toothy smile while trying to make an attempt to get closer to Ricky.


    "Only those close to me call me Ricky, and trust me, I want to be as far away from you as possible." Ricky frowned, torn between his desire to use Chester and the undeniable lure of the $50 million dangling in front of him.


    As much as he could use Chester''s help right now, the money was far more tempting than dealing with the douche nozzle standing before him.


    "Slick, I''d still very much like to talk to you about your situation." Dewey made an effort to maintain a sense of familiarity with Ricky, who responded by simply resting his head on his hand, showing little interest in the attempt.


    "If I let you ramble on, will you leave me alone so I can ride the train in peace?" Ricky asked to which Dewey nodded in compliance.


    "First things first, I''m sure you know who I am and my past with Detective Albert." Dewey purposely showed a hurt expression and Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    ''Truth.''


    "And on behalf of Detective Albert, I want to apologize for what he did to you." Dewey then spoke from the depths of his heart as Ricky raised the eyebrow even further.


    ''Truth.''


    Dewey couldn''t help but see Ricky as just another kid, much like Albert.


    But after reading about Ricky''s history with Albert, he was shocked by the lengths Albert had gone to reach Lucky, using Ricky as collateral in their twisted back and forth.


    Dewey wasn''t blind to the situation, but unlike his friend, who understood how much Lucky cared about Ricky, Dewey still had a sense of morality.


    To him, Ricky was just a kid, and that mattered more than anything else which is why he wanted to give the kid a chance to get away from all of this.


    "I know what he''s put you through, and I promise you, I have no intention of using you to get to Lucky." Dewey looked Ricky right in the eyes as he saw his weird expression, understanding that this lawyer was telling the truth.


    "But your father is a cruel man, and I need you to see him for who he truly is." Dewey then brought up his briefcase, and Ricky realized what he was after.


    Ricky had been in police stations numerous times for drunken disturbances, and although he''d had a couple of crimes pinned on him, he was hooking up with a lawyer at the time and was able to avoid serious consequences, getting only community service.


    However, this experience didn''t erase his wariness of cops and people in the government who might have ulterior motives.


    Over time, Ricky had become less gullible to their tactics, and with lie detection, he wouldn''t fall for them again.


    "Have you heard of the freak show?" Dewey spoke, Ricky curiously raised an eyebrow at the multiple things being placed in front of him.


    Multiple pictures of the site he himself destroyed were placed in front of his tray as he smirked.


    Ricky had activated digital cloaking, so even if Dewey had taken a picture of him literally slaughtering someone right in front of him, he still wouldn''t show up in that picture, although most of these were aftermath pictures.


    "I heard that you and your girlfriend Maria Profaci went to this circus or more specifically, the freak show." Dewey spoke out Maria''s name making Ricky''s eyes squint unconsciously though Dewey was quick to hold up his hands.


    "Listen Ricky, my ways of doing things are different from Albert meaning I won''t stoop so low as to go after kids." Dewey told the truth and Ricky picked up one of the pictures before setting it down.


    "Ricky, some witness put you there at the scene of the crime." Dewey suddenly spoke as Ricky laughed.


    "You''re kidding, right?" Ricky noted that while there were some pictures with members in the background, they were blurred at best.


    However, he saw that Dewey was fishing for something, as his skill started blaring sirens in his head causing Ricky to throw the picture at him, sensing deception.


    "I thought you said you wouldn''t go after me, this seems like you''re fishing." Ricky was visibly annoyed and Dewey once again held up his hands.


    "I said I wouldn''t use you to get to your father-"


    "Whatever, speed this up." Ricky waved him away but wanted to learn a bit more about the man who was giving Lucky troubles recently.


    "Ricky, make a deal with the government, I can guarantee you protection for not only yourself but your girlfriend Maria as well." Dewey seriously spoke after seeing how Ricky was about to punch him in the face.


    "Before you tell me no, the second I walk away, this deal will leave with me-"


    "You know what, Dewey?" Ricky chuckled, sighing a bit and leaning back in his chair.


    "Albert said the same thing to me about how he wouldn''t use me to get to my father. And you know what? You remind me a lot of him." Ricky laughed, seeing Dewey become slightly uncomfortable at the comparison.


    "I-"


    "I''m not going to hear you out because, honestly, I don''t care about anything you have to say." Ricky shrugged, drawing the line which made Dewey show a look of understanding.


    "So you can walk away and take that deal with you, alright?" Ricky shooed Dewey away who had a very disappointed look to him, but nodded.


    "Good luck Ricky, but when I''m done with your father, the Luciano name will be-" Dewey was about to issue an underhanded threat when Ricky abruptly stood up.


    "Actually I changed my mind, sit back down." Ricky pulled Dewey back and then used his peak adult strength to push him down onto the seat.


    Dewey was shocked to say the least since although Ricky looked to be around 5 ''10 at the age of only fifteen, he didn''t expect to also be so strong.


    "I''m actually going to give you a warning Dewey." Ricky pointed at Dewey who was still reeling from how strong he was.


    "I''ll give you one chance to leave New York and never look back, because from what I see you''re a good guy." Ricky said before leaning in as his eyes shone with the utmost brutality.


    "But if you keep digging in this rabbit hole, I will personally not only destroy you but everyone around you, ruin everything completely, got it?" Ricky smiled, licking his lips as Dewey immediately thought of his wife for some reason, his expression became increasingly neutral until he stood up once more.


    "Good day Slick." Dewey didn''t waste any more time and walked away, leaving Ricky to glance around and notice four people withdrawing their hands from their waists.


    ''He''s careful.'' Ricky slowly realized that everyone in the train car was allied with Dewey, but he remained calm.


    The train doors slid open, and they all stepped out as Dewey lingered for a moment, locking eyes with Ricky one last time as the train slowly chugged forward, the distance between them growing with each passing second.


    Ricky didn''t look back; his gaze was fixed forward.


    There was one more stop he needed to make before he sought out his second encounter with those monstrous entities parading around for the whims of whatever vampire was pretending to be Dracula.


    Ricky felt that if he could secure one more source of power, he would be ready for his confrontation and as the train arrived in the southside of Brooklyn, he steeled himself for what lay ahead.


    Walking out of the train station, he half-expected someone to follow him, but no one did, and he walked down the streets alone.


    Instead of heading home, he stopped in front of a beat-up apartment building and walked in.


    Inside the elevator, he made his way towards a particular door and started knocking.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    "Who is it?" Marco, the new man of the house, asked cautiously.


    "It''s me Marco, open the door." Ricky swung the door open, Marco stumbling back a little only to show a surprised look on his face.


    "S-Slick?" Marco was surprised at Ricky''s sudden intrusion, seeing him stroll into the apartment while looking around.


    "Is there a problem?" Marco whispered, thinking something happened while feeling slightly anxious at his sudden arrival.


    "Is your sister asleep?" Ricky asked though and got his answer at Marco''s nod.


    It was only eight o''clock and although his little sister was only three years younger than the ten year old Marco, he still more or less understood.


    He gave a thumbs-up, ruffled his hair, and then walked over to the master bedroom as he knocked gently.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    "Marco, I said I wanted to be alone." Alina whined through the door, and Ricky shook his head as Marco raised an eyebrow.


    Opening the door, Ricky saw the busty Alina sprawled out on her bed, wearing her pajamas, gazing lifelessly at the ceiling.


    "Alina, get dressed, I''m taking you out for some fresh air." Ricky suddenly proclaimed as Alina jerked her head to the side before flinching.


    "Slick!?" Alina sat up, shocked at his arrival as Ricky winked at her.


    "The one and only." Ricky chuckled, holding out his hands as Marco walked up to his side.


    "Ma, I already put Sofia down so you should go with Slick and get some fresh air." Marco misinterpreted why Ricky was here, thinking that Ricky was here to help Alina.


    However, Ricky had more sinister intentions as his eyes didn''t waver from her massive chest, noting her perky nipples showing through the fabric.


    He knew he was a bastard, and although he wanted to convince himself it was all to gain strength, he''d be lying.


    Ricky couldn''t deny who he was at heart, a bastard, and this applied to even his deceased friends'' mothers.


    ''Don''t worry Rocco, I''ll make good by your mom.'' Ricky told himself to ease any guilt that might or could appear in the future.


    "But I-"


    "Great, I''ll be waiting in the dining room."


    *Bam*


    Alina was left frozen, gazing around at the messy room and back at the plain ceiling, she sighed before sitting up with a puzzled look.


    ''It''s not like it''s a date, right?''

 Chapter 44: Totally A Date With Alina

    Chapter 44: Totally A Date With Alina


    Ricky didn''t wait for a response as he slammed the door behind him, leaving a surprised and slightly embarrassed Alina behind.


    As he moved into the dining room, he settled into a chair with a sigh of relief.


    Marco, with a warm smile, placed a glass of water in front of him, and his grateful gaze spoke volumes.


    "Thank you Slick, she really needs to get some fresh air." Marco looked grateful at Ricky who waved his hand.


    "No problem Marco, I''ll take good care of her." Ricky let out a sleazy smile as Marco walked towards his room, leaving him alone.


    Ten minutes later, Alina reappeared, adorned in a dark blue snap garter that looked a little cheap, which only made Ricky smile wider.


    "Slick-"


    "Call me Ricky." Ricky showed a familiarity he reserved only for those he was close to or wanted to be close to, and Ricky very much wanted to be close to Alina, very much indeed.


    "Alright Ricky, why am I all dolled up?" Alina flashed a small smile, Ricky standing up though didn''t answer immediately.


    "Ricky?" Alina asked in a questioning tone though Ricky started walking around her as his eyes scanned her entire body.


    "Sorry about that, but I was a little baffled at how well you pulled off this ragged dress." Ricky''s comment was a mix of positivity and negativity as he side-eyed her, assessing her reaction.


    Ricky was fully aware that his words bordered on rudeness, and he had carefully crafted them to be just ambiguous enough to leave the listener wondering whether it was a sincere comment or a subtle, passive-aggressive dig.


    Honestly, he wanted to see what kind of girl Alina was since the confident and boisterous types would only see the compliment, the arrogant and entitled would only see his words as an insult, while the self-conscious and quiet types would notice the insult and think of it as their own fault.


    "I-Is there something wrong with the dress, I can change if it isn''t appropriate?" Alina stammered with an embarrassed smile, gazing down at her dress nervously.


    Fidgeting in place, Alina felt a wave of embarrassment wash over her, acutely aware that this was her most expensive dress all the while Ricky flashed a predatory smile, clearly enjoying her discomfort.


    ''Oh Alina.'' Ricky''s eyes slowly curved into crescent moons, but as soon as Alina looked up, his expression shifted into one of genuine warmth.


    The only thing wrong with this dress is that it doesn''t do someone as beautiful as you enough justice." Ricky walked closer, and Alina looked up to see him hovering above her.


    Leaning down towards Alina, she froze, though she didn''t back away and nervously, she remained still, as if waiting for his lips to come closer.


    "You have some lint here." Ricky swerved his head right before he could get close, picking up a piece of lint off her shoulder, flicking it away.


    He had reused the move from Dolly, but unlike Dolly, Alina''s situation was different.


    Whether it was out of respect for her deceased son''s friend or the need to avoid offending the son of a mob boss, Ricky knew he had not one, but two metaphorical hurdles to clear.


    Yet, he was resolute, determined to exploit the situation to its fullest advantage.


    "O-Oh!" Alina flushed red at her assumption though before she could think about it too much, Ricky took her hand and started leading her out of the door.


    "We won''t rest until I find a dress worthy of your beauty, alright?" Ricky flattered Alina who shook her head while being led at the door.


    Ricky didn''t give her a moment to regain her composure, hauling her out the door as her mind swirled with embarrassment and a touch of shock.


    ''What are you thinking? He was Rocco''s best friend!'' Alina screamed inwardly, struggling to comprehend why she had ever imagined he would do something as depraved as kissing her.


    Ricky guided Alina, who was still wrapped up in her own internal reprimands, to a car parked out front as he opened the door for her before sliding into the driver''s seat himself.


    He let her purposely stew in her own thoughts, knowing that a person''s worst enemy is often their own subconscious.


    Throughout the drive, Alina stewed in her awkwardness, grappling with whether her own reaction had caused the sudden silence.


    Meanwhile, Ricky whistled a pleasant tune, seemingly unfazed until they eventually arrived at the intended destination.


    "Here we are." Ricky parked in front of one the finest dress shops in Brooklyn, walking to the other side of the car and helping Alina out like a gentleman.


    "Ricky you really don''t have to do all this-"


    "But I want to." Ricky flashed her a smile, leading the taken aback mother into the shop with a confident stride.


    "Excuse me sir but we are closed-" A woman politely informed Ricky until the owner, an old man who was tidying up from the side, widened his eyes and covered her mouth.


    "M-Mr. Luciano!" The owner was pale as Ricky showed a comfortable smile at being recognized.


    "Please, Mr. Luciano is my father, you can call me Slick." Ricky beckoned to the owner who nodded graciously.


    "How may I assist you and please rest at ease knowing that Vincent''s dress shop will take care of all your needs!" Vincent, the owner, politely spoke as Ricky then gestured to Alina.


    By this time, Ricky''s notoriety was beginning to ripple through the currents of New York, though it hadn''t reached the same heights as his own domain in Brooklyn.


    In Brooklyn, where the Luciano family held absolute sway, Ricky was a well-known figure, whether people liked it or not, largely due to the infamous Irish massacre.


    While other gangs and mobs made it a point to ensure their members recognized Ricky by face alone, they also spread his reputation among the broader public as a cautionary measure to ensure they wouldn''t have the same fate as the Irish mob.


    "I''d like you to make this beautiful bulb bloom but I need your help." Ricky spoke charming words as Vincet immediately understood.


    "Right away, Becky, go get our finest dresses, NOW!" Vincent screamed at his clerk who flinched though rushed to the back.


    "Alina, this is the part where you follow her." Ricky leaned down, getting right up to her ear while whispering as she bobbed her head and scurried after her.


    Walking over, Ricky sat on a fine leather couch before Vincent ran up to him with a bottle of their finest champagne.


    "You really know how to treat your customers, Vincent." Ricky grabbed the glass while Vincet started pouring.


    "You''re no ordinary customer, Slick." Vincent quickly began ingratiating himself as he watched Ricky down the glass.


    With a subtle gesture, Ricky wiggled the empty glass to signal that he wanted more.


    "You''re right about that." Ricky sipped champagne as he waited, then soon afterwards, Alina nervously walked out from behind the curtains.


    She seemed hesitant about her appearance in the dress, twirling it around anxiously though be immensely careful until she saw Ricky''s smile and also felt affirmed in herself.


    "Beautiful." Ricky''s gaze softened as he took in Alina''s appearance.


    Her dress, a beautiful shade of blue with delicate white lacing hand-stitched across it, hugged her curves in such a way that was both elegant and alluring.


    The dress seemed to accentuate her features, highlighting her figure in a flattering manner.


    Ricky couldn''t help but admire the craftsmanship and how it complemented Alina''s natural beauty along with her naturally large bosom.


    "How much?" Ricky looked at Vincet who showed a nervous expression.


    "It usually would go for fifty but for you Slick I''ll give-"


    "Nonsense." Ricky laughed, pulling out a wad of money barely held together by his golden money clip before he started counting.


    "Get me nine more dresses with the same quality and the extra hundred is for your troubles today." Ricky took Vincent''s sweaty hand and smacked the money into it before nodding to him.


    This was all dirty money that Lucky had handed over when they couldn''t offload enough of it, essentially disposing of or storing it.


    However, Ricky had a taste for lavish spending; he wasn''t one to hoard his wealth but preferred to spread it around and indulge himself.


    "R-RIGHT AWAY!" Vincent didn''t even hesitate with the greed in his eyes, stumbling a bit but ran to the back to fulfill the order.


    Thirty minutes later, Alina was nervously sitting in the passenger seat of his car with nine dresses in the back.


    "R-Ricky you didn''t have to-" Alina felt rigid, afraid to move too much and risk ruining the dress that clung to her body like a snug, knitted sweater.


    "But I wanted to, Alina, I want to take care of you like I promised." Ricky interrupted with a sidelong glance and a smirk before pulling up to the Stork Club and parking the car.


    *Gasp*


    "Is this-" Alina had heard of the renowned club before her; the ladies from her book club frequently raved about the thrilling stories that unfolded there.


    "My new club? Yes it is." Ricky chuckled, enjoying Alina''s surprised reaction that was heightened to a new level.


    The Stork Club was renowned in New York City for its prestige and exclusivity, making it a coveted destination for many.


    Formerly owned by Owney Madden, the club had evolved into a haven for the middle and upper echelons of white society.


    When Ricky lifted the ban on Black patrons to make washing money easier, he faced backlash from some of his white clientele.


    To compensate for the discontent, the club saw a surge in customers, who flocked there like storks.


    In response, Jake raised the prices to capitalize on the increased demand and maintain a sense of luxury.


    "You''re the new owner of the Stork club?!" Alina was slightly shocked; there had been rumors of a change in ownership, but no one seemed to know who the new owner was.


    "My pops wanted to keep it a secret a little longer to the general public as the only ones who know are the people working in the restaurant, but I think I can trust you with it." Ricky''s casual revelation underscored his familiarity with Alina, making her feel oddly validated by his trust in sharing such privileged information.


    "Aye, If you steal anything or scrap the paint I''ll break your legs." Ricky threw the keys at the chauffeur who gulped already knowing his boss was in front of him.


    "No prob boss, you can count on me!" The chauffeur saluted and hurried to assist Alina, but she pushed him away, causing him to stumble back slightly.


    "I got the girl, you get the car." Ricky gave the chauffeur a warning, causing him to gulp nervously before scurrying to the driver''s side door as Ricky assisted Alina out of the car.


    "My lady~" Ricky joked, making Alina chuckle while easing her anxiousness at the new environment around her as she took his hand.


    "Why thank you good sir~" Alina put on a posh British accent, playing along with the joke while Ricky escorted her into the club.


    They were promptly ushered to a private table in the back, where Alina marveled at her surroundings.


    Her eyes sparkled with fascination at the luxury she had never thought she could attain before, and Ricky couldn''t help but smile at her reaction.


    When the server arrived with the finest champagne, Alina was nearly taken aback, her excitement palpable.


    "T-This is to much-"


    "Alina, trust me, you''re worth a lot more." Ricky gently brushed the top of her hand, and Alina responded with a coy smile, her gaze shifting downward shyly.


    "Thanks Ricky."


    It wasn''t any secret that Alina was in the trenches of an overbearing depression caused by her son''s demise.


    To cope with this sudden and tragic loss, Alina only had her younger children to lean on in this tiresome time.


    However she felt burdened by weighing her young children with such complicated emotions at their age so Alina secluded herself.


    It wasn''t that Alina was purposely alone, but she used to work three jobs after her husband''s death, her time always filled with providing and never having time for things like friends outside her book club, and although she was taken care of due to Rocco''s demise, this left her with no other outlets for this grief.


    Loneliness had never weighed so heavily on her as it did now, driving her into a state of physical and mental isolation until Ricky burst through the door.


    So in this moment, she deeply appreciated Ricky''s effort to pull her from the depths of her despair and out of the darkness she secluded herself in.


    Blissfully unaware of his ulterior motives, she felt genuine gratitude for his current gestures and the nativity of his intentions allowed for her guard to be fully let down.


    "So Alina, you know all about me yet here I am, knowing nothing about you." Ricky saw the atmosphere about to be stagnant and decided to force Alina to talk.


    "Well-oh thank you." Alina was about to speak when a shrimp cocktail appeared before her, accompanied by Ricky refilling not only his glass but hers as well, which she had been nursing.


    Ricky wasn''t just indulging in champagne like the alcoholic he appeared to be; rather, he found that champagne made him more smooth and outgoing.


    As previously mentioned, Ricky''s demeanor slightly shifted depending on the alcohol he consumed, and with champagne, he felt more charming and sociable.


    Ricky tried to convince himself that drinking heavily was just to get inside Alina''s pants, but deep down, he was feeling overwhelmed.


    Everything was moving too quickly for him and at heart, he was still a deadbeat and slacker, so as the cards and responsibilities stacked up, so did his other negative traits.


    "Is this?" Alina''s eyes sparkled with surprise; she had never seen such a large shrimp before, having only ever indulged in much smaller ones.


    "Jumbo shrimp? Of course, do you think I''d give someone as spectacular as yourself regular shrimp." Ricky seemingly asked, slipping the champagne while currently on his fourth glass.


    Alina was amazed by the jumbo shrimp and couldn''t help herself as she immediately dipped it into the cocktail sauce.


    A burst of giggles escaped Alina as she did a little dance, savoring the cocktail shrimp, and Ricky couldn''t help but laugh along.


    "What is it?" Alina suddenly covered her mouth and asked Ricky who shook his head.


    "You''re just so adorable that''s all." Ricky commented as Alina rolled her eyes though her smile extended.


    "Ricky, if I didn''t know you better I''d think you''re hitting on me." Alina joked though Ricky only sipped on his champagne.


    ''Then I guess you don''t really know me.''


    "Anyways, what did you want to know about me?" Alina after being buttered up by the jumbo shrimp, asked Ricky as he shrugged.


    "Anything, just tell me about yourself." Ricky pointed his now empty glass at Alina though due to his new vitality, he wasn''t anywhere near being buzzed.


    "Well, I wasn''t actually born in Sicily." Alina took a sip of her glass before eating another jumbo shrimp, Ricky immediately becoming surprised as he raised an eyebrow.


    "Don''t get me twisted, my family immigrated from Sicily but I was actually born in New York, Queens to be exact." Alina smiled while thinking about her childhood, relishing in the times of days without responsibilities.


    "You''re kidding, you''re from Queens?" Ricky decided to show a look of surprise to give Alina the notion he was completely listening to her.


    "Yep, but I did meet Rocco''s father in Sicily when I was visiting my relatives one summer." Alina became reminiscent of her own words, swirling the champagne in her glass as if the memories were playing in the reflection of that golden liquid.


    "Golly, I was so young back then." Alina showed a weird smile as Ricky raised an eyebrow at this expression.


    Then to Ricky''s surprise, she downed the entire glass which made him surprised and unconsciously looked down at his own glass as he needed to catch up.


    "Can I have-" Alina''s expression was one of distaste, not accustomed to the taste of champagne, which had caught her off guard but despite this, she found herself wanting another helping.


    "Say no more." Ricky stopped her, pouring her extended glass full of champagne once more, then to her shock, he immediately downing his own glass.


    "Now we''re even." Ricky laughed as Alina realized her early actions though instead of being embarrassed, the champagne had loosened her humor as her own laughter flowed out.


    "So do you want to tell me what happened or do you want to pretend it didn''t happen?" Ricky asked so he could feel out how to approach the rest of this conversation.


    *Sigh*


    "Hold on." Alina held up a finger as she downed another glass of champagne as Ricky started laughing crazily.


    "Where was this Alina when we were dress shopping?" Ricky said in between laughs while Alina sighed, holding out her glass for Ricky to pour it full once more.


    "Well it''s just-.....although Rocco talked about you, I never really knew you before his passing." Alina showed a smile, showing she needed to be more familiar with him before raising an eyebrow.


    "Then you popped up out of the blue and came to my home, buttered me up with compliments, then took me to get dresses that add up to half of a year of my normal salary." Alina''s tone was a little sassy though her smile indicated she was joking as Ricky drank the champagne.


    "I refused to let someone of your beauty wea-"


    "There you go again!" Alina pointed at Ricky, her buzz kicking in as if catching him in the act as she let out a ecstatic smile.


    "Ricky I''m 32, I could be your mother!" Alina words conveyed the reason, but her tone became slightly self conscious though Ricky waved his hand.


    "But you look like you''re twenty five and besides, if you''re wondering if people might look at us weird then don''t, cause I''ll kick them out of the club if they do." Ricky''s words made Alina happy until she let out a giggle at the end of his sentence.


    "You''re a little charmer aren''t ya?" Alina pointed at him with the pinky finger as she gripped the glass.


    "''Charmer makes it seem as if I act this way with everyone, but I''ll only be like this with you." Ricky''s endless flattery caused her to roll her eyes but Alina didn''t discourage the compliments.


    ''He''s only saying these things to make me feel better.'' Alina told herself that the notions of them being a thing were swept away under the guise of his association to her son.


    "Yes sir?" A waiter asked once Ricky stopped him before he quickly understood after seeing a champagne bottle placed on his tray after Ricky poured the last amounts into his own glass.


    "Two more bottles and hurry up the special for the both of us." Ricky then snuck a tip into the waiter''s pocket, lighting up at the money and hurried to carry out Ricky''s instructions.


    "So Sicily, tell me about it." Ricky leaned back, setting down his empty champagne glass as Alina was still drinking hers.


    "Ricky I-"


    "Alina, just let it out." Ricky reached over and touched Alina''s hand as she seemingly crumbled at his touch.


    "When I was sixteen, my parents and I went to Sicily for the summer to visit my extended family." Alina once again swirled the champagne in her glass while reminiscing about such simpler times.


    "Gosh I was so young back then and so stupid." Alina thought out loud, Ricky listening closely while watching Alina drink the remainder of the glass as she finally became fully buzzed.


    "Like myself, my parents were catholics but unlike me, my parents were incredibly strict." Alina sighed, leaning back while looking up at the ceiling.


    "They were so controlling and once we got to Sicily I-.....I met Piero, Rocco''s father." Alina closed her eyes, thinking about her rebellious years.


    "Piero was such a free soul and I was enamored by his life." Aline gazed back at Ricky who was intently listening.


    "At that point in my life, I couldn''t believe someone could be my own age and not have their lives dictated by another." Alina showed a slight smile, the irony clear on her face.


    "Then one night, I got into a fight with my parents who berated me about showing up late and instead of taking it like I always did, I fought back." Alina recalled the scene in the reflectiveness of her glass.


    "We went into a screaming match until I ran away-.....right into Piero''s arms." Alina smirked in shame at her past, sighing lightly.


    "I really hate myself for that day because I used Piero to get back at my parents." Alina bit her lips as she closed her eyes to remember the guilt she had harbored for so long.


    The alcohol swirling around her loosened her tongue, causing the story she had always kept locked away in her heart to bubble up to the surface for Ricky to hear.


    "Then as the summer was drawing nearer, I realized that I had become pregnant with Rocco and once I told my parents they-....disowned me." Alina''s smile slowly faded as she started sniffling.


    "Piero truly loved me, he gave up his life to emigrate back to the states for me once he found out, he really loved me." Alina covered her eyes as Ricky got up and maneuvered closer to her before sitting next to her in the booth.


    "He left behind a lot for me and I''m so thankful." Alina sniffled, Ricky pouring her glass only for her to reach out and down it.


    "And I did my best to do right by him, I was a good wife but I hated that I could never feel the same way he did for me-"


    *Sniff*


    *Hic*


    "I tried my best to be the woman he wanted me to be, I really did but after he passed away-" Alina started to break down, finally letting out all her grief as Ricky took her into a hug.


    "Hey, it''s ok." Ricky comforted the best he could, holding her while she completely broke down.


    "Sir, your bottle-" The waiter politely said only for Alina to break the hug and swipe the bottle.


    *POP*


    "Whoa, whoa." Ricky stopped Alina from literally trying to drown herself in alcohol since it wouldn''t be fun for him later.


    "But I-"


    "Trying to hog the entire bottle, geez~" Ricky shook his head, pouring himself a glass as he nodded to the waiter who understood and took his leave.


    "And besides, you should pace yourself since we haven''t even eaten our expensive meal yet." Ricky informed her as Alina dabbed the napkin around her eyes to protect her last minute make up.


    *Sniff*


    "Y-Yeah, your right I''m sorry-"


    "Hey, never apologize over something like this." Ricky placed a hand on her shoulder, and the corners of her mouth turned upwards in a smile.


    He then scooted back across from her in the booth just as their meals were placed in front of them.


    "Fresh king crab, picked apart for your enjoyment with a truffle butte." The waiter announced to them as Alina''s eyes sparkled.


    "With a side of Gruye?re Scalloped Potatoes and Grilled Peach-and-Arugula Salad with Feta." The waiter then took out a wine bottle, the final touches to go with such a dish.


    "This is a Barolo 1876, flown in only a week ago from Sicily and specially sought out by Mr. Luciano''s stork club." The waiter then sat the bottle down next to the second bottle of champagne already half drained by these two.


    "Bon appetit." The waiter bowed before making the other staff scarce, Ricky picking up a crab leg then dipped it in the butter.


    Ricky believed in living life to the fullest, unlike others who downplayed their wealth or tried to argue about who had to worse, Ricky shamelessly flaunted his wealth around others without care.


    Ricky didn''t care if others were jealous since as long as their feelings didn''t appear within his sights, then it didn''t matter since Ricky was consciously uncaring.


    "Holy moly!" Alina called out to Ricky excitedly as she dug into the king crab, the alcohol starting to take its toll on her, though the food would soon help her regain some sobriety.


    Ricky, on the other hand, showed no intention of pacing himself, immediately pouring the rest of the champagne into his glass.


    "Ricky, isn''t this expensive-"


    "Alina, I own the place." Ricky interrupted her worries as she suddenly realized.


    "Oh yeah." Alina nodded in agreement, surrendering to the decadent meal before her and as they dined, the plates emptied, leaving only the bottle between them.


    With the food gone, Ricky shifted to humor, cracking jokes to further lighten the mood.


    Ricky had a vast collection of jokes from his time in various bars and gatherings, making this one of his strong suits.


    *PFFFT*


    "Hahahahaha!" Alina suddenly started laughing as the wine glass in her hand wobbled as it nearly spilled multiple times.


    "Hahaha, alright one more, one more." Ricky also wasn''t impervious to the blooming woman as he even let out a loud laugh.


    They both were drunk as Ricky''s excessive drinking had finally caught up to him along with Alina as they bordered on the lines of sh*t faced.


    "A man walks into a bar and says to the bartender, ''I got five hundred dollars that says if you slide a shot glass down the bar top, I can run alongside it and piss into the glass without missing a drop. And I only get two tries''." Ricky began a joke that seemed intended for the ears of men, but Alina was no ordinary woman.


    "The bartender eager to win thinks to himself and realizes just how hard this would be and accepts the bet." Ricky''s voice gradually grew louder, drawing the attention of the other diners but made a conscious effort to ignore it, focusing instead on their own meals.


    "The man drops his pants and when the bartender puts the shot glass down on the counter, he shouts ''Go!'' prompting the bartender to slide it along the bar top. The man chases after it, holding his pecker at an angle to properly aim it. However, pissing while running at full speed isn''t easy. So he fails." Ricky continues, Alina holding back her laughter until he gets to the end.


    "Catching his breath, the man reminds the bartender that he has a second try. Once again the man chases widely after it, spraying piss everywhere. But not one drop of urine makes it into the shot glass." Ricky slurred out, Alina''s face about to explode with laughter but continued to hold it in.


    "He hands the bartender five hundred dollars and the bartender starts jumping up and down in joy and cheers in victory. All of a sudden, a man in the back of the bar slams his fist hard against his table and screams. ''F*CK!''." Ricky hits the table, yelling that last part while receiving multiple glares.


    "The bartender mutters, ''I wonder what his problem is?''."


    "The man who just pissed all over his counter nods and says ''Oh, I just bet that guy 10,000 dollars that I could piss all over your bar and you''d be happy about it."


    *SNORT*


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Alina snorted loudly and burst into uncontrollable laughter, her amusement evident.


    Ricky, unable to hold back his own laughter, joined her, and together they laughed uproariously, drawing curious glances from the other diners.


    "How uncouth." A man from the side scowled at Ricky though the latter couldn''t care less about making a scene


    "Oh f*cking can it, loser!" Ricky pointed at the disguised gentleman as Alina started cackling at the side.


    "Yeah, shut the f*ck up!" Alina drunkenly yelled at the man who showed an appalled expression as Ricky started dying of laughter.


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    Ricky started slamming the table as an outlet though his force was that of a body builder in their prime as loud thuds resounded in the club.


    "Excuse me, I demand to speak to the manager." The man stood up and pulled the waiter aside who immediately went.


    "S-Sir he-" The waiter tried his best to warn the disgruntled man but it was no use.


    "He is acting very unmannered and I demand-" The man yelled, pointing a finger at Ricky but that only made him laugh harder.


    "You can''t demand sh*t dimwit, I OWN THE CLUB!" Ricky covered his face after he saw the realization on the man''s face as Alina fell onto the floor in laughter.


    "Whatever, this place is too stuffy anyways." Ricky hopped to his feet before helping the still laughing Alina up.


    Swiping a full wine bottle from a nearby table, Ricky took a sip before walking out with Alina in his arms.


    Walking down the alley, they couldn''t even walk straight as they zigzagged down the sidewalk.


    "Ricky, where are we?" Alina asked while trying not to break out in laughter as Ricky became confused and looked around.


    "New york?"


    "...."


    "...."


    "AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" They both laughed as they continued to walk though eventually Ricky was the one lagging.


    While they walked down the sidewalk, Ricky had downed that entire bottle without sharing and had become effectively more intoxicated than Alina who had to deal with the aftermath.


    "Oh golly Ricky, you''re a mess." Alina slurred out before blinking as she gazed up at a hotel.


    Looking at Ricky then back at the hotel, she hesitated but after seeing Ricky''s slumped posture she shook her head and helped in.


    "May I help you?" The receptionist hesitantly asked, gazing at the two clearly drunk individuals as Ricky gazed up and squinted.


    "Here, pull my car around back." Ricky hobbled to his feet as he took out a crumpled up hundred bill and threw it at the receptionist''s face.


    "Ricky this isn''t the chauffeur!" Alina loudly whispered as the receptionist eyebrow twitched while Ricky sloppy nodded his head.


    "Then I''ll have three cheeseburgers, a large fry, and I a large drink but I swear to god in you fill it up with too much ice-"


    "Sir, this is a hotel." The receptionist informed Ricky who showed a weird look as he thought for a second and nodded.


    "Then how much for a suit?"


    "A ''suite'' is two hundred and-"


    "Keep the change." Ricky then promptly threw two hundred more dollars at her face before falling to the ground as Alina helped him back.


    The receptionist took a deep breath but took the money and took out her book that kept track of all of the guests.


    "Can I have a name?"


    "Your mother~"


    *PFFFT*


    Both of them started laughing again right as Alina helped him to his feet as the receptionist held her forehead in distress.


    "Sir-"


    *DING*


    "Thank''s betty!" Ricky waved as the elevator doors opened as the receptionist reached out, shook her head, and wrote the name "Betty" in the log book.


    "And my name is Susan." Susan looked back at the elevator that had already closed while sighing deeply.


    "What am I doing with my life?"


    *DING*


    The door at the top floor swung open, and Alina assisted Ricky to his feet, leading him down the hall to their intended room.


    She struggled momentarily with the door but eventually managed to open it, revealing a lavish room, though not without its issues.


    "One bed?" Alina asked with a confused expression before her face blushed.


    ''Did she think we were a couple-'' Alina blushed before showing a look of horror at her own thoughts all the while, Ricky stumbled out from her side.


    "Ima shower-" Ricky drunkenly slurred out, wobbling forward while tripping on his own foot.


    *SMACK*


    Ricky stumbled and immediately smacked his face into the bathroom door as Alina rushed over to him before tripping herself.


    "Ahhh-" Alina yelped only for Ricky to catch her fall, both of them stumbling around the room to regain their balance only to conveniently fall onto the bed.


    "I''m sorry-...sorry." Alina glanced up in embarrassment, only to find Ricky staring intently into her eyes.


    Without a moment''s pause, Ricky leaned in, and Alina, almost instinctively, mirrored his movement, their lips meeting in a hesitant, yet eager, drunken kiss.


    ''Wet to the touch.''

 Chapter 45: Rocco’s Mom Has Got It Goin’ On (R18)

    Chapter 45: Rocco''s Mom Has Got It Goin'' On (R18)


    "Ah~" Alina moaned from the threshold of Ricky''s lips, tracing his hands down her bountiful curves with an intense vigor.


    "God, you''re irresistible Alina." Ricky whispered, letting go of the kiss to say this sentence only to take her lips once again.


    Alina reclined on the Egyptian cotton sheets, her form elegantly spread across the bed as her cheeks flushed with a deep crimson as she found herself enveloped in Ricky''s embrace.


    Alina knew how wrong this was, but once the alcohol mingled with her reasoning, a potent concoction of desire brewed within the cauldron of her heart.


    Desperate to fill the aching void that haunted her day in and day out, she sought any form of affection to soothe it, and Ricky was ready to give her everything she craved.


    As their sensual kiss broke, her eyes locked onto Ricky''s, watching as he slowly began to undress her, each piece of clothing falling to the floor with a soft, deliberate thud.


    Everything felt so hazy, but Alina instinctively closed her eyes, surrendering to the overwhelming force that was Ricky, letting herself be carried away by the tide.


    The once elegant blue dress lay discarded on the floor, leaving her in nothing but her underwear.


    With practiced ease, Ricky unhooked her bra, letting it slip away and freeing her breasts.


    They hung slightly, swaying with a tantalizing jiggle as they were freed from their constraints, gently bouncing with every subtle movement.


    ''This is a woman.'' Ricky thought, looking at Alina''s motherly figure with a vast sense of appreciation.


    In an era that worshiped petite, slim, and bony figures, where every girl seemed to fit the mold with no curves to speak of, Alina''s body defied the trend with her lush, captivating curves.


    She was everything Ricky craved in this moment, a desire highlighted as his eyes slowly drifted down to her drenched panties, the next barrier to fall.


    Ricky''s gaze lingered on her, making Alina feel a tinge of embarrassment as his eyes meticulously memorized every part of her figure as he slowly descended, savoring each detail.


    He reached out, guiding Alina''s panties down her legs which trembled as his fingertips glided over her soft skin, each touch sending shivers through her body.


    Alina''s eyes, however, were fixed intently on the bold outline growing ever more prominent in his pants.


    The sight left her momentarily taken aback, making the process of disrobing her remarkably effortless.


    Once he tossed her panties aside, Ricky began to unbuckle his belt, revealing the formidable presence that would soon claim her trembling body.


    Her gaze traveled downward relentlessly, her eyes widening as they finally rested on the throbbing, veiny cock that sprang free.


    Alina felt self-conscious and scared, her intoxication amplifying her fear that Ricky might not want an older woman like her when seeing him pause.


    But the entire reason behind this act was Ricky''s sheer fascination with the sight of the beautiful, slightly hairy pussy that quivered with an almost desperate invitation before him.


    The slight disarray of her pubic hair, unkempt for the past week or two, only added to his allure, making Ricky smile with satisfaction.


    ''This is a true f*cking woman.'' Ricky thought, releasing a small, trembling breath.


    "Alina I''m sorry, but I''m not going to hold back." Ricky was blunt with his intentions, not hesitating to place the tip of his cock at the entrance of her innermost sanctum.


    Her lips encircled his throbbing tip, the warmth radiating from her core making him shiver with anticipation.


    Ricky was honestly too drunk for any consideration that wasn''t his own, feeling incredibly pent up from the mess he himself caused earlier and decided to have a bit of Alina relief.


    Alina, surprised at the lustful expression he had when gazing at her old body, couldn''t help but smile until her eyes suddenly widened.


    The sudden act was jarring; her head slammed back as her hands instinctively reached above her, and a sharp, involuntary screech escaped her lips.


    "AHHHH~" Alina let out a bewildered moan as she felt the full length of him slam into her, reaching her deepest depths with a force that unlocked a buried sense of pleasure, long dormant and intense.


    A shivering wave of electric pleasure spread through her body in the next moments, her jaw clenching as her form trembled with each pulse of sensation.


    It was as if her body was slowly reeling itself back into the intensity of the moment, each shiver grounding her further in the experience.


    Only then did she finally feel as if she could regain control, her gaze shifting forward to see Ricky, who was losing himself to the sensation.


    His expression revealed the depth of his pleasure as he experienced the warm, enveloping hold that seemed to ensnare his cock completely.


    "H-Ha~" Alina shook and moaned, unable to form coherent words as her hands instinctively pushed against his abs, trying to halt his advances.


    Ricky, however, merely grasped her wrists with his hands and pinned them against the bed, maintaining his control over the situation.


    In the next moment, Ricky plunged the rest of his length even deeper inside her while their bodies pressed together.


    Alina could only clench her teeth and tighten her pussy around him, her head rolling back as she struggled to absorb the intense sensation.


    Ricky buried his face into the deep cleft of her ample breasts, savoring the softness that pressed against his face.


    His entire body effectively pinned Alina down, enveloping her in an all-encompassing embrace as he lost himself in the sensation.


    His hips jerked back, pulling his cock almost entirely out of Alina before he violently slammed it back into her, eliciting a guttural moan.


    "A-ARGH!" Alina slurred out, seemingly choking on her only spit while moaning out like some animal in heat.


    The last remnants of reason vanished within Alina as she gasped for air, Ricky''s scent flooding her senses, filling not only her nasal passages but also her throat.


    His promiscuous scent completely overwhelmed any lingering thoughts, chaining her mind to the present moment and the intense pleasure that consumed her.


    Alina''s mind went numb, stripped of all thoughts except the overwhelming desire to feel the sensations Ricky brought her.


    As he pulled his hips back and drove into her with another powerful thrust, the intensity of it sent waves of pleasure coursing through her body, leaving her utterly consumed by the moment.


    "AHHHH!" Alina''s orgasm washed over her almost instantly, a rush of pleasure that surged through her as Ricky pushed past her final defenses, making himself at home deep within her.


    The feeling of him filling her so completely sent waves of ecstasy coursing through her, leaving her breathless and trembling, lost in the intimate connection they now shared.


    As her orgasm burst forth, Alina''s nectar spilled onto the bed, the scent of her arousal lingering in the air.


    She barely had a moment to catch her breath before Ricky lifted his head from the cleft of her breasts and began to suck on her left nipple, his mouth enveloping the sensitive peak with a hunger that left her gasping.


    Ricky pulled his right hand back, only to bring it down sharply on her right breast, the impact sending a jolt through her body.


    He began to aggressively fondle it, his fingers kneading the soft flesh while occasionally twisting her nipple, each motion drawing a mixture of pleasure and pain.


    Alina was being eaten alive, yet the only cries for help that escaped her slutty lips were transformed into sultry, desperate moans.


    However they were like music to Ricky''s ears, coupled with the intense sensation that enveloped Alina both inside and out, Ricky felt an overwhelming surge of possession and desire.


    Unable to resist, he made a bold proclamation, his voice laced with the certainty of his control and the depths of his lust.


    "Oh god Alina, I don''t think I can ever let you go~" Ricky pressed his cock deeper inside her, causing Alina to grit her teeth as her eyes filled with tears before he aggressively wound up his hips.


    *SLAP*


    *SLAP*


    *SLAP*


    *SLAP*


    Ricky unleashed a flurry of brutal thrusts, each one met with a loud, wet slap that echoed through the room as his hips repeatedly collided with Alina''s constantly quivering and squirting pussy.


    Love juices spurted out with every powerful thrust of his cock slamming into her folds.


    The slapping noises gradually give way to the sloppy, sloshing sounds of Ricky relentlessly rearranging her insides.


    Alina''s body had completely malfunctioned at this point, squirting at almost every violent thrust while her insides clenched and yielded to his relentless force.


    Alina''s legs were sprawling out as they swayed violently in the air, pushed apart by Ricky''s waist which constantly overloaded her insides, utterly vandalizing her being with his cock causing the entirety strain to result in the incessant curling of her toes.


    Alina''s brain repeated tried to reel in from the complete mind f*cking as she finally managed to grab hold of her limbs which resulted in her thick thighs moving first as soon, her legs wrapped around Ricky''s waist.


    As Alina''s body tightly clenched around Ricky, the intense pressure drove him even deeper into her pussy.


    This forceful penetration, in their new position, overwhelmed her senses and effectively shut off the last remnants of her control.


    As Alina lay on the bed, fully immersed in the sensation of him, Ricky moved to grasp her waist, using his grip to pull her down more firmly onto his cock, intensifying their connection.


    Watching with glee, he saw her ginormous tits swaying in circular motions with such vulgar movements that eagerly seduced him before Ricky couldn''t handle it anymore.


    Finally returning to his old position, his fingers immediately cupped her bobbing meats of flesh flopping across her chest as Ricky latched onto her left nipple this time.


    During this time, a large buildup of tension was forming despite Alina''s constant squirting.


    As the overwhelming pleasure took hold, her mind began to recover, focusing on the surging wave of lust that surged with each powerful thrust.


    "OH GOD, RICK-AHHHHHHHH!" Alina finally managed to articulate words, but the overwhelming sensation soon had her losing herself once more as the tidal wave of pleasure broke over her.


    The intense build up released with a flood of her sweet nectar, spraying out in an explosive climax.


    The sheets below them became drenched in their lustful liquids but even in the face of Alina''s most powerful organism, Ricky still slapped his hips aggressively into her waist while enjoying the beautiful pocket pussy that was morphing around him to accommodate his length.


    *THWAP*


    *THWAP*


    *THWAP*


    Almost limp at this point, Alina layed on the bed completely drained of literally everything as the only function she currently had was her hearing, but even that was completely drowned out.


    All she could hear was the symphony of convulsive, sloppy sounds, which had evolved from mere slapping into a raw, guttural rhythm of Ricky''s relentless ramming of her pussy.


    *THWAP*


    *THWAP*


    *THWAP*


    The tantalizing, slickened slaps of their bodies colliding filled the air, each sound more intoxicating than the last.


    Her inner thighs were starting to redden from the force of his pounding, but Alina was beyond caring.


    As soon as her hands were free, she put them to good use, clutching at him desperately, her fingers digging into his flesh, pulling him deeper into their shared frenzy as if that was all she had left.


    "I''m almost there~" Ricky grunted out, gazing down at the wobbly Alina who moved up and down, feeling that build up in his balls once more.


    With one final, powerful thrust, Ricky released a thick, milky load of cum that filled and coated the depths of her womb, enveloping her in his essence and once again inducting her into motherhood.


    Alina bit her big, juicy lips tightly, her body convulsing with pleasure as she climaxed, feeling the ecstasy ripple through her, intensified by the throbbing sensation of his cock pulsating deep within her, filling her with heat and overwhelming satisfaction.


    Cum continuously spewing out the tip of his cock, swirling around her belly as Ricky smiled from the bliss moment of impregnating Alina.


    "Phew~" Ricky wiped the sweat off his forehead, looking up at the mission window.


    ''Damn, forgot to make her beg.'' Ricky thought, gazing down at the huffing Alina sprawled on the wet bed in a daze.


    ''Whatever, I can also try again.'' Ricky grabbed her thighs, pushing her upwards as the cum trailed down her pussy and onto her untouched ass.


    Ricky had a sudden idea, using his own cum as a lubricant, he started fingered her untouched little hole.


    Shivering, Alina was still reeling in from the shock of that mindf*ck of pleasure from only seconds before.


    Still in her daze, she simply let her ass be raised into the air and played with by her son''s best friend.


    Slipping his cum into her asshole, he wasn''t going to abuse and tear her up like Ruth, but instead was more gentle and nurturing with Alina.


    Her eyes were hazy, drool still seeping from the ends of her mouth until sparks of recollection filled her pupils.


    "R-Ricky~" Alina asked, after reeling herself from the shock, completely flushed red in embarrassment at this weird position.


    "Just relax Alina, let me take care of you." Ricky replied, putting two fingers into her ass and swirling them around, making her quiver from his touch.


    "I-this-" Alina couldn''t describe this feeling, completely embarrassed while trying to utter out any words to convey this weird feeling only to be interrupted by Ricky.


    "Shhhhhhhhh, it''s fine." Ricky assured her with a pleasant smile which immediately made her fold.


    Biting her lip, she seemingly couldn''t refuse Ricky since the intoxication from the alcohol mixed with the pleasure of his cock made for one hell of a drug that had ensnared her entire being.


    Then slowly pulling out, some drippings of his cum seeped out of her ass,the pink ring twitching instinctively.


    However, he quickly placed the tip of his cock at the entrance, using it as a makeshift dam to prevent the release of his cum-filled lubricant, keeping the warmth and fullness contained within her.


    "O-Ow~" Alina whined as she felt the tip of his cock press into her ass, the intrusion sending slight shocks of pain through her, mingling with the residual pleasure from their earlier encounter.


    Pressing against his chest, Ricky paused his movements, knowing that their current position had pinned her back but held out until she was a little more comfortable.


    While he waited, Ricky grabbed the palm of her hand and moved it to his mouth before applying a soft tender kiss onto her palm


    "R-Ricky~" Alina moaned in embarrassment which only made Rick smile, continuing to tease her and relishing in her reactions.


    Alina couldn''t keep her mind on the pain spreading through her ass, as Ricky''s continual teasing had diverted her focus entirely and it was in this moment of distraction that he made his move.


    Sliding his cock further into her, Alina let out a pained moan, tears forming from the intense, ripping sensation.


    Yet despite the discomfort, she allowed Ricky to continue, submitting to his desires as if wholly surrendering herself to be toyed with.


    *Sniff*


    "It really hurts, Ricky~" Alina whined as she took half of his length inside her ass, her discomfort evident though her gaze was both thoughtful and saddened, which only intensified Ricky''s struggle.


    Veins stood out on his neck as he desperately fought to control himself, battling the urge to overwhelm her completely.


    ''F*cking hell Alina, stop making that face.'' Seeing Alina''s tearful face, Ricky thought that her distress did nothing to deter him but rather welcomed him with an open heart.


    "I''m sorry, you can blame me for everything." Ricky whispered, pushing himself deeper as he lifted her off the bed and into the air.


    "A-AH~" Alina let out a sudden moan as her body yielded to gravity, instinctively wrapping her hands around his neck for support.


    Once put into the air, Alina''s ass slowly slid down the rest of his cock before her jiggling ass gently nestled onto his thighs.


    *SNIFF*


    *SNIFF*


    Shaking intensely, Alina sniffled while hiding her crying face on his shoulder while Ricky held her tight in his embrace.


    Alina never complained or scolded Ricky, as it wasn''t in her nature and instead, she accepted everything he gave her in silence, remaining quietly submissive.


    Ricky only realized this now: Alina had always gone along with his desires without protest, which made him feel like a total asshole.


    Maneuvering his face in front of the sniffling Alina, Ricky gently nudged her head from the crease of his neck, their noses touching as they looked at each other.


    In the next moment, he drew her into a tender, loving kiss that captivated her.


    Alina complied wholeheartedly, and they slowly savored each other''s presence, relishing the intimacy of the moment.


    Gently stroking her back, Ricky calmed himself as he waited patiently for Alina to be ready as his desire to make her feel comfortable was evident, and he took his time, ensuring she felt secure and at ease.


    It was weird for Ricky, at first he wanted to be a one night mistake where Alina would feel guilty for taking ''advantage'' of him, but now things changed.


    The way she responded to his every touch and the depth of their connection made him reconsider his initial plan.


    Instead of pursuing his original intentions, Ricky decided he wanted her to be his, even if only as a mistress, still, she would be his.


    Letting go of their sensual kiss he then tentatively kissed her shoulder, Ricky showcased his tender side to Alina before bringing her crying face before his once more.


    Trying to avoid his gaze out of her own shyness, Ricky wouldn''t let her and brought her into another slow sensual kiss as he interlocked their tongues in a gentle dance.


    Breaking it, Alina sniffled while opening her eyes, watching Ricky wipe away the tears that had accumulated and took her into another kiss.


    Again and again, Alina was overwhelmed not in his pleasure but sincerity as her heart that throbbed in pain warmed.


    "Y-You can start." Alina whispered, wrapping her arms around his neck and shyly tucking her face into the crook of his neck.


    Ricky smiled at her permission, kissing her reddened ears, his hands drifted down to her supple and large ass before squeezing.


    Trembling, Alina shut her eyes closed as her ass lifted while freeing his cock before gently driving it back into her tight hole.


    It was hard for Alina, but she bared with it as her nails scraped against his back while wrapping her legs around his waist.


    Sitting on the bed and in his lap, enthralled by his cock, Alina slowly started to let out fevered moans though they were still quiet.


    Trying to find the pleasure in touch, his tip suddenly poked at her very special spot causing her to jitter in his hold.


    "A-Ah~" Alina let out a haggard moan, shuttering at feeling the sudden pleasure in a place that only brought pain before.


    Ricky smiled, a wave of relief washing over him as he finally made her feel the pleasure within the pain, continuing his touch until she began to relax even more within his hold.


    The rigidness of her body slowly melted away, loosening up everytime Ricky plugged his cock gently into her ass until she suddenly jerked her head up.


    "AH~"


    A sudden flood splashed onto Ricky, watching at the sudden climax of Alina who was also surprised at its sudden arrival.


    Ricky watched as Alina came within his arms, her juices splashing onto his stomach without any direct stimulation to her pussy.


    The sensation of her climax and the tight grip she had around his cock made him grit his teeth in response.


    "H-Ha~" Alina''s head weakly hit his shoulder, still shaking from the it''s arrival.


    *SLAP*


    "AH~" Alina''s eyes widened in surprise, leaning back and gripping Ricky''s neck as he gazed down at her reaction.


    *Gasp*


    She gasped sharply as Ricky thrust his cock into her ass with one swift motion, catching her off guard.


    Her eyes widened, twitching at the sudden sensation of him slamming into her but to her surprise, it barely hurt this time around, despite the intensity of the thrust.


    Alina, without any warning, lunged back into Ricky''s embrace after another serving of his cock plunged deeper into her ass.


    Clinging desperately onto him, she never uttered any word that wasn''t already expressed by her arousal through sultry moans, burying her face in his neck as if making a nest within it.


    Her breasts flapped all around at the enhanced motions, bouncing until Alina herself pressed more of her body against his chest.


    Her soft, supple fun bags pressed against Ricky''s chest, allowing him to feel her gentle curves, while her perky nipples brushed subtly across his skin.


    Ricky''s movements became more urgent after this feeling, each thrust eliciting a gasp or a moan from Alina.


    Her body started to respond eagerly once she was more comfortable, arching her back to his touch as pleasure surged through her.


    The heat between them intensified with every movement, their connection deepening as they moved in unison.


    Alina''s hands swayed down his neck and back against Ricky''s back, nails grazing lightly over his skin in a silent plea for more.


    His own desire mirrored hers, evident in the way he held her close, his breath mingling with hers in the heated air.


    Time seemed to slow as they lost themselves in each other, every sensation heightened by their shared need.


    Ricky cock hitting into her deepest parts, expanding her being as Alina relished in accommodating his size.


    Feeling herself stretch to his whims, the slight throbbing his cock, she couldn''t help but lose herself at this sensation she only ever felt with the man holding her right now.


    Ricky wanted to go deeper, his desire hastening his pace which became a rhythm of urgency and hunger, each thrust pushing them both closer to the edge.


    Alina''s body trembled with pleasure, her senses completely overwhelmed once more by the raw intensity of their union.


    She clutched Ricky tighter, her nails digging into his skin as she surrendered to the waves of ecstasy crashing over her.


    Feeling her response, Ricky''s movements grew more determined, his own need driving him to chase her pleasure.


    Their bodies moved in perfect synchrony, each touch and each passing kiss a declaration of their wet and sloppy passion.


    His hands eagerly explored her curves, tracing every inch of her skin with reverence and hunger.


    Alina''s moans filled the room, mingling with Ricky''s deep groans of pleasure before they both suddenly deepened.


    Feeling the sudden build up within both their bodies, as if in synchronization they both started ramping up their own movements.


    Slamming against one another, they both suddenly looked at each other in a deadlock stare, unmoving while their bodies rippled across one another.


    They could see in each other eyes they were close, then without another hesitation they both took each other into a hot kiss.


    Then in the next second, they both unleashed a seismic orgasim as Alina sprayed all her lewd juices onto him before Ricky flooded her being with his cum.


    Ricky''s cum flushed her insides white, swirling around in an intense heat that nestled within her being as Alina''s expunged her desires onto him.


    However not even for a second had they moaned but aggressively swirled their tongues around one another until they finally broke.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    A saliva bridge formed between them but they were too busy heaving deep breaths while staring at each other.


    Silent, they simply looked at each other before Alina''s glazed eyes realized she was staring at Ricky''s intent stare, before finally breaking first.


    Chuckling, he tenderly kissed her turned away cheek as she didn''t complain but let him do as she pleased.


    "Ricky I-" Alina wanted to say something but Ricky kissed her lips once more until she shook her head.


    "I-I can''t go anymore." Alina tiredly said, her stamina not as extensive as the young Ricky who frowned in slight disappointment.


    ''But my rewards.'' Ricky complained, a little sad but not about to force Alina since he definitely wanted a favorable relationship with this busty MILF.


    "T-Then do you want me to-"


    *Quiet murmurs*


    Alina embarrassedly suppressed her own words, self conscious at being labeled a slut only for Ricky to seamlessly put his ear right next to her red lips.


    "Come again?" Rciky asked, hoping but not wanting to jinx it as Alina gulped before leaning in to hover her lips right on his ear drums.


    "Do you want me to use my mouth~" Alina whispered, unconsciously adding such subtle and sensual tones that even made Ricky shiver.


    "I mean, if you wouldn''t mind." Ricky didn''t refuse, showing her that trademark sleazy smile as she chuckled at it before shivering.


    Ricky lifted her off his cock, causing his cum to spill out as he withdrew as Alina let out a soft moan as they both settled across from each other on the bed.


    Blushing under Ricky''s gaze, Alina turned her eyes away, tucking stray strands of hair behind her ear as she leaned down.


    Now at eye level with his member, she marveled at the fact that she had managed to take it all in not just one hole, but two.


    As she leaned down and extended her tongue in anticipation.


    Ricky''s cock twitched as he watched the tip of her tongue delicately lick his member like a lollipop, starting from the base and slowly trailing up to the tip.


    The blend of his cum and her nectar created a unique flavor that danced across her taste buds before she swallowed it.


    Alina didn''t immediately take his cock into her mouth, but licked it entirely clean which only made Ricky even harder.


    It was as if she couldn''t stop herself; the taste of the milky white substance was almost intoxicating, drawing her in with its rich addicting flavor.


    Then once she did, without even asking, brought her big drooping tits and sandwiched his hardened cock between her two cushions.


    Messaging it gently between her two soft pillows, she gazed up and made direct eye contact with Ricky before taking the upper half that was being neglected into her mouth.


    "F*ck~" Ricky grunted, leaning his head back at the blowjob that had trumped all others since he came to this world.


    Placing his hand on the back of her head, he pushed her down but instead of resisting, she took even more of him.


    Swallowing his tip while caressing the base with her soft tits, she looked up with a small smile knowing for the first time since they had entangled their bodies, that she had taken the lead.


    Bobbing her head gently, she wrapped her slimy tongue around the upper part of his cock with tender affection.


    Feeling constant twitching, Alina took him deeper while smushing the base of his cock with her J-size cups.


    The mixture of texture wrapped around Ricky''s cock made him entirely speechless, while trying to reel in but being stopped after she flicked her tongue across his tip sending shivers down his spine.


    ''No way, I can''t let her go.'' Ricky swore to himself, deciding to forever bust into this MILF until he couldn''t anymore.


    ''I''m about to fill that small cramped apartment of hers with my bastards, sorry Rocco.'' Ricky thought, vowing to make this mother a mother of more than just two before clenching his teeth.


    Alina felt the tremble and smile, bobbing her head a little faster as she sped up the pace while bracing herself for all of his cum.


    Swirling in his balls, Ricky pushed the back of her head down with gritted teeth as he released the last remaining amounts of his cum into her mouth.


    *GULP*


    *GULP*


    *GULP*


    Alina gulped at every serving, being so courteous to swallow and not waste a single ounce of his helpings of cum.


    Then once she had finished dining, she released Ricky''s cock as he actually fell over onto the bed.


    Alina let out a tired sigh, knowing it was over but before she could do anything he pulled her into his embrace.


    Kissing the top of her head which slightly shocked her before she let out a warm smile, resting her head on his chest.


    Both of them nodded off into a blissful sleep while they snuggled in each other''s warmth.


    [Mission Received: Alina Mannheim]


    Difficulty: Easy-Medium


    Character Sheet: C-


    Description: Alina might seem very unapproachable and vitreous but she''s been very pent up ever since her husband died. The only reason no one dared to try something with this beautiful MILF was because of Rocco, however now that department seems to have disappeared.


    Objective: Release Alina from the shackles of her own guilt riddled chains that surround her luscious body and cum inside her.


    Reward: 25,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Alina Once:


    Rewards: 10,000 IP or Alina''s skills


    Impregnate Alina Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Get a full blowjob from Alina while she uses her breasts, tongue, mouth, and swallows it all (Complete):


    Reward: Skill Coupon(Epic)


    Have Alina throw away her dignity for your cum (Complete):


    Reward: +8 Agility


    Cum inside all three of Alina''s holes(Complete):


    Reward: +6 Dexterity


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    Creampie Alina three times in one sitting(Complete)


    Reward: 15,000 IP


    Hidden Mission: Have Alina cum with every Creampie in that sitting(Complete)


    Reward: Rare Skill Coupon


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????

 Chapter 46: Chatper 46: By The Grace Of God

    Chapter 46: Chatper 46: By The Grace Of God


    At the local Brooklyn docks,


    Father Sebastian stepped off the ferry, releasing a small sigh as he ventured onto Luciano family territory.


    Pulling out a map he had picked up at the fair, attempting to navigate his way to the local church.


    As he moved forward, his lack of proficiency in reading maps became apparent, leading him deeper into Luciano family territory.


    *Sigh*


    ''I knew I should''ve asked for directions.'' Father Sebastian let out a heavy sigh before looking around to see Johnny sitting outside a coffee shop, sipping on an espresso while reading the paper.


    "Excuse me?" Father Sebastian walked up to Johnny who twitched his eyebrow without even getting up.


    "Can''t a guy drink an espresso-FATHER!" Johnny sneered until he saw that Father Sebastian was a man of the cloth.


    Although Johnny was a member of the Luciano family, everyone within the family recognized the significance of religion and how close it was to their upbringing which made Johnny''s mortification all the more profound.


    "Ah, I apologize for interrupting you-" Father Sebastion quickly apologized, smiling warmly only for Johnny to shake his head vigorously.


    "N-No, this humble servant of our lord apologizes for disrespecting one of his voices." Johnny could feel a slight pain from on the back of his head.


    The haunting pain of fear ran through Johnny''s mind, knowing his mother would beat him to a pulp if she ever found out he had disrespected a priest.


    "Oh what a kind man you are." Father Sebastian was ignorant of the mafia stereotype and didn''t paint Johnny as a thug but instead a good christian man.


    "If you wouldn''t mind my son, would you care to point me to the nearest church?" Father Sebastian smiled warmly as Johnny dropped literally everything and ran to his side.


    "Father, it would be my honor." Johnny, directed in a distinct direction with Father Sebastian, feeling refreshed at the polite tone of someone for once as he followed him towards the local church.


    Meanwhile at the hotel,


    "Oh my god!"


    A shriek suddenly awoke a very tired and slightly hungover Ricky who hesitantly opened his eyelids to see Alina on the very end of the bed in a panic attack.


    "Wha-"


    "How could I do this? I''m such a horrible person!" Alina''s face collapsed into her hands, blaming herself for everything that happened last night instead of Ricky.


    "Alina, calm down-"


    "HOW CAN I CALM DOWN, I LITERALLY SLEPT WITH MY BABY''S BEST FRIEND WHO''S STILL IN HIGHSCHOOL!" Alina snapped back at Ricky who held up his hands.


    "Alina, don''t beat yourself up too much, I mean look at me, my looks could seduce the gods themselves." Ricky said in a cheesy way, in an effort to break the tension though Alina only collapsed back in her hands.


    "Come here." Ricky gestured to Alina who was already teary eyed through her own guilt.


    *Sniff*


    "No I-" Alina shook her head, looking away but Ricky gestured once more.


    "It''s ok, it''s really ok." Ricky pulled her into his arms anyways as Alina collapsed into embrace instinctively, feeling solace in the warmth of another.


    "I''m such a bad-"


    "No you''re not, it was my fault." Ricky consoled her, patting her back while Alina sniffled in his chest.


    "No its-"


    "It''s my fault, don''t blame yourself Alina." Ricky caressed her cheek so that she would look up but only bit her lip in a response.


    "I-I need to go." Alina pushed away from Ricky but he didn''t stop her as she touched the ground only to fall on her butt.


    "Owie~" Alina''s legs were completely sore from the consistent pounding from last night as Ricky peaked from the edge of the bed.


    "Need some help?" Ricky asked Alina who stubbornly looked to the side.


    Ricky started laughing at Alina, who was flailing like a fish out of water while trying to put on her clothes.


    When she finally stood up, her face was completely reddened in embarrassment.


    "I-......I need some space." Alina tried to be angry but in the end, she only ducked her head but not enough that she couldn''t see Ricky nod his head.


    Ricky watched Alina limp out of the door, then sighed deeply as he collapsed onto the bed.


    *SIGH*


    ''Women.'' Ricky thought about how this was the third girl he''d been with who had asked for space as he didn''t consider that he might be the problem, instead chalking it up to coincidence.


    ''Whatever, claim my rewards-"


    "URGH!" Ricky felt that familiar pain, this time searing through his brain and legs, as he squirmed on the bed.


    10 minutes later,


    *HUFF*


    "Damn." Ricky let out an exasperated sigh, huffing out heaves of breaths while gazing at the unopened skill coupons.


    ''Open.''


    *DING*


    Received:


    (Epic Skill) Accelerated Healing: Healing at a faster rate than normal humans, but not necessarily instantaneous.


    (Rare Skill) Sixth Sense: Ability to sense objects and movement without using normal vision, similar to echolocation.


    ''Receive the IP and open the Gacha.'' Ricky inwardly commanded, completely forgetting about the gacha he had from Ruth after opening the coupons.


    *DING*


    Received: &&


    (Epic Item) Luminous Orb: This glowing orb provides intense light and reveals hidden or magical traps within a twenty-foot radius for five minutes. After its light fades, the orb turns into dust.


    (Epic Item) Stormcaller''s Conduit: A small, enchanted staff that, when waved, summons a localized thunderstorm with lightning strikes for one minute. The staff vanishes after use.


    (Rare Item) Illusionary Glasses: When worn, these glasses make everything appear slightly distorted for five minutes. After use, they disintegrate.


    (Uncommon Item) Whispering Leaf x 20: A single leaf that, when held close to the ear, whispers a random, non-essential fact for thirty seconds that you''ve never heard. It''s mostly for amusement and is discarded after use.


    (Uncommon Item) Old-Looking Globe x 17: A world globe with an antique appearance, featuring detailed maps and a wooden base from the 1700s.


    (Uncommon Item) Woolen Throw Blanket x 13: A cozy throw blanket made of wool, often used for keeping warm on chilly nights.


    (Common Item) Antique Pocket Knife x 4: A small, folding knife with a wooden handle, worn from years of use but still sharp.


    (Common Item) Rusty Toolbox x 6: A sturdy metal toolbox filled with old, rusty tools and spare parts.


    (Common Item) Leather Bookmark x 20: A handcrafted leather bookmark with a decorative design, used to mark pages in a book.


    (Common Item) Glass Jar of Marbles x 10: A jar filled with colorful marbles, each with unique swirls and patterns.


    (Common Item) Ceramic Planter x 7: A colorful ceramic planter used for growing small plants or herbs, often featuring decorative patterns.


    "Alright, I''m ready." Ricky finally steeled his resolve, his reckless actions with his dick culminating into this newfound strength.


    He jumped to his feet, took a quick shower, and then left the hotel, heading back to his mansion.


    Parking his car in front of the manor, he walked inside, only to be greeted by loud, boisterous laughter coming from upstairs.


    ''Pops?'' Ricky flinched, recognizing the tone of Lucky''s laughter, though he had never heard it reach such levels before.


    Curiously, he walked up the stairs and peeked into the office, where he saw two old men laughing fanatically.


    "What are you doing here?" Ricky even tried to keep his presence a secret as he saw the other old man sitting across from Lucky, Abraham.


    "What does it look like I''m doing!" Abraham laughed out, yelling at Ricky though Lucky only cackled louder.


    "PUAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Lucky slammed his hand on the desk, and Abraham joined in with boisterous laughter.


    Ricky''s expression remained neutral, his gaze fixed on Abraham, who was finally calming down.


    "When you left me at the side of the road, I eventually went back to the warehouse however there was a problem." Abraham informed Ricky who froze when seeing Lucky nodded.


    "Abraham came to me because the Jewish mob stole something from him. We reached an agreement: he would handle them in exchange for the return of the stolen shipment." Lucky pointed at Abraham as Ricky realized something while gazing at the vampire hunter who winked.


    "Pops, you can''t trust this guy-" Ricky quickly tried to dissuade him though Lucky was too stubborn.


    "Can it, he''s recognized by the Vatican and he has the papers to prove it." Lucky pointed to papers on his desk, making Ricky widen his eyes.


    "But-"


    "This goes above mafioso''s like us Slick, the jewish mob stole from the Vatican and I can''t let that slide." Lucky had a heavy expression, gazing at Ricky with a firm and undisputed expression.


    "Anyways, here." Lucky threw a duffle bag across his desk at Ricky that contained the money from Rockefeller.


    "I don''t know what that old head is thinking, but you did good if you got away with a mere bribe." Lucky actually complemented Ricky, knowing how dangerous that old man truly could be.


    "Pops-"


    "Slick, you listen good, you''re grounded." Lucky stood up, buttoning his suit and informing his reckless son.


    "Wait but-"


    "You crossed the line with that Rockefeller girl." Lucky walked up while pushing the confused and slightly shocked Ricky to the side as he leaned in.


    "Trust me kid, you almost got caught, Henry''s people ain''t that tight lipped." Ricky''s eyes widened at Lucky''s words, but his father''s reassuring wink hinted that every loose end had already been tied up.


    "If you leave this house you''re dead." Lucky then pushed Ricky out of his office, the latter trying to retort only to be met with Lucky''s quick reaction.


    *BAM*


    Lucky then proceeded to shut the door in Ricky''s face, leaving him holding the duffel bag with a confused expression.


    Lucky had never grounded him in his entire life; being his kid, he had never faced such discipline before.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHA, YES!" Alexander''s boisterous proclamation echoed through the house.


    Still in shock, Ricky stumbled back to his room, only to sigh in frustration as he bumped his head against the door before finally stepping inside.


    Opening the door, he saw Alexander in a mighty stance while Chetser simply ignored him and pecked at his wings.


    "A long hard bout, a tireless front yet I, Alexander, have once again claimed the sweet nectar of victory, HAZAY!" Alexander cheered as Chester looked up to see a slightly confused Ricky.


    "If you''re wondering what happened, Alexander finally beat me at go fish-" Chester let out a sigh, explaining things only for Alexander to prance forward.


    "I did not simply win, I slayed the tireless front that is your steeled face as my observation pierced your mind, LIKE A SPEAR!" Alexander let out a maniacal cheer, his sadistic laughter filling the room as he reveled in finally besting Chester, who merely rolled his eyes in response.


    "Now my student, I am in a good mood. Let us continue our training-.........student?" Alexander turned to Ricky though didn''t see his usual arrogant smile which slightly confused the rodent.


    "I was grounded?" Ricky, still surprised himself, stared out into an empty space as Alexander looked at Chester in confusion but looked back.


    "But you are above ground?" Alexander struggled to grasp the lingo of this century as Ricky grabbed the inventory key, unlocked it, and tossed the duffle bag inside.


    "It means that my father won''t let me out of the house." Ricky clarified, prompting both Alexander and Chester to nod in understanding.


    "Ah, you have been confined." Alexander nodded before grabbing the cards and waving them in front of Ricky.


    "Then let us engage in the manner of ''Go Fish'' until you have been released to continue our training." Alexander quickly asked, eager to rub his future victory in Ricky''s face, but Ricky only shrugged in response.


    "Why not."


    1 hour later,


    "How is this comprehensible?" Alexander had succumbed to the depths of complete and utter defeat, while Ricky raised an eyebrow, casting a glance at Chester.


    ''Did you let him win earlier?'' Ricky questioned internally, and Chester, finally relenting, gave a subtle nod to him.


    Despite his many talents, Alexander proved surprisingly inept at cards, Go Fish in particular, which left him bewildered at his own failure.


    Ricky had encountered adolescents who played Go Fish better than Alexander, which was surprising.


    The only time he''d played cards with kids was during a court-ordered community service stint at a special needs facility.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    Ricky shot a sidelong glance at the door while placing down two fours signaling his two of a kind.


    Meanwhile, Alexander, consumed by frustration, began furiously rolling on the ground, his anger fueled by the fact that he also had a four.


    "Stop pouting like some dame and open the door." Abraham said from the other side of the door, making Ricky frown.


    Opening the door, Abraham flashed him a smug smile as Ricky walked back to his chair and pushed Alexander away before he could peek at his face-down cards.


    "You got a real simple room." Abraham commented though this was because Lucky called Ricky a ''fag'' if he ever put a painting.


    "Much like our conversations, I like to keep it minimalistic." Ricky plucked one of Alexander''s cards as the gerbil started to break down mentally.


    "Oh come on, did ya think I''d simply let it go with you dropping me off on the side of the road?" Abraham snickered, sitting across from him in the opposing chair though Ricky shook his head.


    "No, I figured you''d pop up in my sights eventually, however I didn''t expect you to come here." Ricky side-eyed Abrham who shrugged.


    "And why didn''t you tell-"


    "He wouldn''t have believed me." Abraham waved him off as he didn''t want to have this sort of conversation.


    "Or if you''re asking why I even came here is because I''m here to make you an offer." Abraham pointed at Ricky who started laughing crazily.


    "What so funny-" Abraham eyebrows scrunched at the sudden laughter as Ricky wiped his eyes.


    "You totally need my help, don''t you?" Ricky smirked, realizing something as Abraham''s eyebrow twitch.


    "Do you really think I need some brat''s help?" Abraham stubbornly let out in a gruff voice only for Ricky to shrug.


    "Well, if you came here to patch things up with me, don''t take my earlier expression the wrong way. There were no hard feelings toward you; I was just shocked because I''ve never been grounded before." Ricky also struggled to hide his shock at Abraham''s presence as he hovered his hands over Alexander''s cards, finally plucking a card that made him flinch.


    "THOU ISN''T NOBLE IN HIS PURSUITS OF THIS GAME!" Alexander stomped on the desk while Ricky chuckled at this frustrated display and looked at Chester.


    "Any 6''s?" Ricky asked though Chester always wore a neutral expression.


    "Go fish." Chester pointed his wing at the deck of cards, signaling that he didn''t have any sixes.


    "Damn." Ricky then picked up a card from the deck as Abrham weirdly gazed at this interaction though stopped.


    "Fine I need assistance-" Abraham finally gave in, but Ricky was indifferent to his words.


    "Help, say you need my help or I''m not helping you." Ricky gave a card to Chester as Abraham instinctively reached for his gun but stopped.


    ''You little sh*t.'' Abraham was as stubborn as a bull without horns, unyielding and obstinate despite his apparent lack of power.


    "Listen, the ghouls found the Tuscarora tribe''s tomb of the sky mother." Abraham confessed what sounded like nonsense to Ricky, leaving him with a bemused expression.


    "The what?" Ricky asked, giving Abraham a perplexed look as if he had no idea what he was even talking about.


    *SIGH*


    "I should have known you wouldn''t grasp something this important and would barge in without even knowing what was there." Abraham scoffed though Ricky simply rolled his eyes.


    "Just get on with the explanation and skip the parts about the pendants giving Dracula free range in the sun." Ricky stopped him since he vaguely remembered what it did.


    "Little sh*t." Abraham whispered as he took out a flask and took a swig.


    "Alright here''s the thing, there were supposedly six sun pendants crafted by an unknown being which dated back to even before ancient times." Abraham began his story as Ricky was utterly defeated by Chester, who methodically picked out two of his cards.


    "For any humans that can wield magical power, those pendants boost our magical power three fold in the sun, however it also replenishes three times faster in the sun which is why they are so highly coveted." Abraham explained, detailing why it was such a significant prize for any human who managed to covet one.


    "Over the centuries, like many other powerful artifacts circulating in the hands of our ancestors, many wars were fought and lives that could stack to the sky were taken at the hands of these pendants." Abraham revealed though Ricky, uncaring and selfish, started picking on Alexander and taking his queen of hearts.


    "For example, Merlin who was considered one of the most prominent wizards in human history, had a pendant along with other various trinkets." Abraham hinted towards Ricky, trying not to lunge at this impudent kid before him.


    "However, Merlin recognized the terrifying power that this pendant could bestow, not only upon humans but also upon dark monsters, much like many other artifacts." Abraham then looked at his shaking hands and closed his eyes.


    "Any dark being with restrictions had them lifted under this pendant which is why Merlin set off for a time to destroy all of these pendants." Abraham''s eyes conveyed a serious gaze when staring at Ricky.


    "It was said that there were only four and Merlin along with the round table had destroyed them all during the great crusade." Abraham''s hands gripped tightly, his breath slightly stagnating.


    "However, somehow, Dracula stumbled over an Aztec tomb and obtained a sun pendant." Abraham heard the screams of the innocent resound in his ears as he downed another swig of his flask.


    "So many lives were taken at the cost of his thirst for not only blood, but power." Abraham tried to drink the screams away, only managing to quell the sounds until he regained himself.


    "Out of the twenty six van heislings that were alive during that period, only I survived." Abrham leaned down, closing his eyes in shame.


    "Only through the combined effort of the allies and the vatican was I able to break that f*cking pendant and it cost me dearly." Abraham then pulled up his shirt which revealed a large indent in his side.


    "Ricky, we cannot let that pendant fall into whoever is masquerading as Dracula." Abraham was almost pleading at this point.


    "The ghouls and that vampire have just entered the tomb, if we leave now-"


    "We?" Ricky interrupted as he leaned back in his chair with a curious expression.


    "I''m grounded or did you turn a deaf ear to my pop''s words." Ricky shrugged towards the vampire hunter while Abraham gritted his teeth.


    "I already took care of it, your father offered a couple men to go after the tomb which I covered up as the Jewish mob''s ''stash house'' and offered to look over you so that you wouldn''t go into Manhattan." Abraham crossed his arms and Ricky showed a weird expression.


    "How did you even get my pop''s to trust you so much, I mean, he doesn''t even know you?" Ricky didn''t even understand a little how Abraham could walk into the tiger''s den and be applauded for it.


    "Because of this." Abraham reached into his coat and pulled out a bedazzled cross littered with gold, rubies, sapphires, and other precious jewels along with a black stone in the middle.


    "A bedazzled cross?" Ricky said it as it was and Abraham rolled his eyes.


    "No you numbskull, it''s an insignia of the vatican. Everyone who''s related to the church in some way knows about this cross and your so-called ''family'' are all from Sicily which is heavily involved in the church." Abraham informed as he tucked the cross back into his coat, while Ricky merely rubbed his chin in contemplation.


    "I knew the family was religious but didn''t know to this degree-" Ricky unconsciously voiced his own opinion which only made Abraham smack his knee.


    "HA!" Abraham let out a booming, solitary laugh.


    "Those Sicilian gangsters are a weird bunch and like here, they all have one thing in common and that''s their respect for god." Abraham was slightly taken aback that Ricky wasn''t the same as the others, watching as he stood up.


    "Fine, I''ll help you but I want one of those crosses." Ricky boldly pointed at the cross and Abraham immediately scoffed.


    "That''s not how it works, kid. You have to earn one of these crosses, and even then, you must stand before the inner council until they finally decide to bestow one upon you." Abraham crossed his arms, Ricky scrunching his eyebrows at this old man before him.


    "And even if I could, it''s sacrilege for someone only affiliated with the church to give their cross." Abraham stood up, completely shooting down his request while adjusting his attire.


    "But I do need your help, kid, so what do you say?" Abraham extended his hand, and Ricky nodded, still eager to beat the crap out of that vampire.


    "Nah." Ricky then plopped down, Abraham nodding along only for his eyes to bulge.


    "WHY NOT-" Abraham screamed out, thinking Ricky was going to accept instead of refusing.


    "Because first of all, you didn''t ask for my help with enough sincerity and secondly, you didn''t say please." Ricky''s smile spread across his face as Abraham''s furious expression turned red, but he slowly closed his eyes, trying to contain his anger.


    "P-P-P-P-" Abraham seemingly couldn''t find it in himself to actually utter these words until he reached into his pocket, grabbed his flask, then downed it with one fell swoop.


    "DAMMIT F*CK, PLEASE HELP ME!" Abraham yelled at Ricky who laughed out loud before nodding.


    "Alright let''s go-"


    "Hey Abraham, did you get that little sh*t? We''re going to be late so drag him out of that room if you have to and let''s go!" Lucky called out hurriedly which only made Ricky suspicious at his eagerness, turning towards Abraham who looked away.


    "What did you do?" Ricky''s voice was dangerous as Abraham started sweating, Ricky clamping down on his hand just in case.


    "I might''ve also promised him in exchange for his help that I''d speak at their sermon later today." Abraham winced a little as Ricky''s eyes lit up in anger.


    "YOU WHAT!"


    30 minutes later,


    "Can you believe it, Slick? A man from the actual Vatican is going to speak at our church! I swear, all those mafiosos from the other families will be so jealous!" Lucky exclaimed from the front seat, his excitement palpable.


    Ricky, however, kept a plain expression, while Abraham, seated beside him, quietly cleared his throat.


    "It''ll only be an hour at most-" Abraham attempted to downplay the gravity of the situation, but Ricky slowly turned to him, his expression serious.


    "Do you really believe that?" Ricky asked with a ugly expression, twisting in anger as Abraham was caught in his lie.


    Though Ricky was grateful for Lucky adopting him, one of the things he disliked the most was having to spend his Sundays, and sometimes Saturdays, at church.


    Especially those damn sermons they give.


    These weren''t the typical 1-2 hour sermons; they could last 3-4 hours on a good day and Ricky had once endured a full eight-hour sermon in their church.


    Every Sunday, sixty percent of the time was focused on God, but the other forty percent revolved around networking and building connections through faith, a tradition within the Luciano family.


    While other families had adopted similar practices, Lucky was adamant about his family attending church on either Saturday or Sunday.


    Arriving at the church, Lucky was greeted by a group of his own members as he raised an eyebrow, expecting to deliver the good news to them, but it seemed as though he was about to hear something instead.


    "Boss, boss!" Johnny rushed forward right as Lucky exited the car and raised an eyebrow.


    "What''s got your knickers in a twist?" Lucky asked Johnny who was literally jumping up and down.


    "I ran into a priest, Father Sebastion, and he''s offered to speak at our sermon today!" Johnny said though Lucky was still wondering why he should be excited.


    "But not only that, he''s from the Vatican, he''s a priest from the Vatican!" Johnny practically screamed, making Lucky widen his eyes before letting out a boisterous laughter.


    "I gotta leave." Abraham froze and muttered to Ricky who side-eyed him.


    "What do you mean-" Ricky whispered to the side, his voice low and threatening, as Abraham began to sweat profusely.


    "I got to scram before he catches me-" Abraham was genuinely fearful, which made Ricky a bit uneasy until the old man suddenly froze.


    "Abraham, how nice it is to see you on this fine Saturday."


    Just as Abraham began to turn around, Father Sebastian''s voice halted him, slowly turning around to see a man of the cloth.


    The priest descended the steps of the grand cathedral behind him with deliberate, measured steps.


    "Father, it is an honor to meet you." Lucky knelt on one knee as Father Sebastian smiled and extended his hand, showcasing his ring of proof to which Lucky promptly kissed the ring in a gesture of respect.


    "My son, do not kneel for a mere voice of the church; that honor should be reserved for our Lord," Father Sebastian said with a warm smile as he helped Lucky up.


    Lucky, grateful for such grace, looked up at him with appreciation which made Ricky feel incredibly weirded out.


    "Y-Yes father." Lucky actually stuttered which shocked Ricky to his core since he''s never seen his pop''s nervous, literally ever.


    "Would it be alright if I spoke to my fellow servant of God for a moment?" Father Sebastian asked, guiding Lucky''s gaze to a defeated Abraham as the latter nodded almost immediately in agreement.


    "Of course, Father. Everyone, get your butts in the church!" Lucky issued the order without hesitation, and all the members of the Luciano family, who had been waiting for the service to start, quickly bolted inside at their boss''s command.


    "Slick let''s go-" Lucky quickly gestured towards him only for Ricky to shake his head.


    "Actually pops, I''m needed here." Ricky informed Lucky who was about to become livid in anger before seeing Abraham nod his head in agreement.


    "Ah, I see." Lucky, seeing a chance for Ricky to make a connection with people from the Vatican, didn''t hesitate to leave him alone and enter the grandiose church.


    "Abraham, why did you involve a child? What is wrong with you?" Father Sebastion immediately started looking after Ricky, blaming Abraham almost instinctively.


    "Father, it''s nice to meet you." Ricky was respectful and did as his father, kissing the ring to which made Father Sebastion smile before tilting his head.


    "I know this might be a presumptuous question, but have we met before?" Father Sebastian inquired, noting that Ricky looked oddly familiar but unable to place why.


    Abraham nodded from the side, having thought he was going crazy, as Ricky gave him a major sense of de?ja? vu.


    "I don''t think so, father." Ricky pondered the thought, though his memory wasn''t the sharpest.


    Father Sebastian squinted, rubbing his chin in contemplation, before finally shrugging it off.


    "Anyways child, do not listen to this stubborn fool''s ramblings and go find a place with your father." Father Sebastion tried to guide him into the church but Ricky shook his head.


    "Father, I apologize but I cannot." Ricky spoke up, catching Father Sebastian off guard with his unexpected response.


    "May I know the reason for this, my child?" Father Sebastian genuinely asked, aware that this conversation was not suitable for a child.


    "Because I have been chosen by God to help you on this adventure," Ricky declared boldly in a slightly cheesy way which made Abraham scoff, and Father Sebastian flinched at the unexpected claim.


    "Kid, those powers wouldn''t make you blessed by god." Abraham pointed his flask at Ricky, and Father Sebastian nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Child, please be careful with your words. To be chosen by God means to hold an object sent from the heavens." Father Sebastian informed Ricky while quietly blessing him, ensuring he wouldn''t be punished for any slip-ups.


    ''Sh*t.'' Rick thought inwardly since he was going to paint his powers as a blessing but didn''t know he needed an object.


    Slightly panicking at his chance to get in this priest''s good graces, he scanned through his inventory to see anything that might be able to pass off as an object sent by the heavens.


    ''Would this work?''


    "Is this suitable?" Ricky pretended to reach into his coat pockets as he pulled out the rare item he obtained long ago.


    (Rare Item) Cross Necklace: A aura of pure holiness repluses from this cross which makes an unholy being in the area unable to look you in the eye when adorned.


    *GASP*


    Father Sebastian gasped in complete and utter shock, his eyes fixed on the cross necklace dangling in front of him.


    His shaky hands instinctively reached out for the necklace, which seemed to radiate with holy power.


    "Oh you''ve got to be sh*tting me." Abraham''s jaw dropped as he gazed at the object, sensing the genuine holy power emanating from it.


    "I-I apologize child for doubting you, may I?" Father Sebastion pointed at the necklace as Ricky nodded and handed it to him.


    "Seb, the kid''s bullsh*tting yo-" Abraham quickly attempted to dissuade Father Sebastian from any bold notions, but the priest jerked his head to the side, signaling his refusal to be swayed.


    "QUIET!" Father Sebastian yelled out, causing Abraham to shrink back, as he rarely ever saw the priest snap in such a manner.


    Father Sebastian took out a golden magnifying glass and exhaled a cold breath.


    As he peered through it, small inscriptions, the source of the holy power, began to etch themselves into his subconscious.


    ''Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed.'' - John 3:20-21


    "Child, do you know the effects that this necklace possesses?" Father Sebastian looked up, and Ricky nodded while reading the description.


    "The necklace makes any unholy being in the area unable to look you in the eye when adorned." Ricky read the second half of the description, Abraham widening his eyes as he snatched the necklace for Father Sebastion''s hand


    "Is this necklace that important?" Ricky inquired rather lacklusterly, scratching his head as both of them nodded their heads heavily.


    "Kid, when a high ranking vampire transforms into a human, it is almost impossible to discern them from a human but with this necklace-" Abraham was about to slobber over the necklace when Father Sebastian swiftly pushed him away.


    "Child, I apologize for my words earlier, you must have been sent by the heavens to ensure our success on this tireless crusade." Father Sebastion rested a hand on his shoulder as Ricky widened his eyes.


    ''Well that worked out, I guess even the most useless items to me means a lot to another.'' Ricky was taken aback; he had never imagined that something he considered useless would be another person''s treasure.


    But now, he realized that it could be.


    "We need to go now-" Abraham immediately tried to run away, yet, Father Sebastion yanked his collar back.


    "Unfortunately we cannot." Father Sebastion shook his head at Abrham''s hurriedness.


    "But why not Seb-" Abraham was utterly confused, as this seemed like the perfect opportunity to begin.


    "Because we both made promises to speak at these sermons." Father Sebastion walked back to the church as the two of them were now slack jawed.


    "You''re kidding."


    3 hours later,


    "He really wasn''t kidding." Ricky fell back in his seat, surprised that Lucky didn''t even spare a second to correct him.


    Like the rest of the Luciano family, he was enthralled with the sermon Father Sebastian was giving.


    "Psst, Slick." Jake whispered to Ricky, who turned to see him near the back.


    Ricky then looked back at Lucky and slipped out of his seat since hsi pop''s was utterly focused on Father Sebastion.


    Tiptoeing towards the back, he met up with Jake with two more figures appearing once he turned the corner.


    "Chores, Barko?" RIcky raised an eyebrow after identifying the figures as they both nodded to him.


    "What are you guys doing here-" Ricky scratched his head, puzzled that they weren''t part of the family and shouldn''t be at the service as he struggled to comprehend that people actually willingly attended church.


    "Did you think I''d let you go to that wearhouse again without backup?" Jake nudged Ricky who showed an apprehensive expression.


    "Jake those-"


    "Ricky, I know you think of me and maybe those two as baggage, but at least let us get your back." Jake basically pleaded though Ricky was still hesitant.


    "Only when your friends prove themselves in the heat of battle do they become one''s comrades." The words of Alexander seemingly rang in his ears before he saw the stares of three turn to his shoulder.


    "When did you get here?" Ricky turned his gaze to his shoulder to see Alexander on his shoulder whispering in his ears as the gerbil flinched, realizing it wasn''t a distant memory but the little rodent himself.


    "Chester was feeling tired from using the thing he calls ''Chakra'' and I-.......I didn''t want to be left out of the upcoming battle." Alexander first started to explain but once he saw that Ricky wasn''t believing his BS, did he finally confess.


    "Fine but you stay by my side." Ricky pointed, and they all nodded in agreement as Chores clenched his fists.


    His heart was still plagued with guilt and sorrow; he might be very competent in the area of fighting, but his only way of unleashing this was by using his fists.


    "Meet me after they finish that absurdly long sermon, got it?" Ricky gestured to the three who promptly nodded along.


    "Got it."


    2 hours later,


    "It''s a bad idea Slick." Abraham pointed to the three individuals next to him, and Ricky shrugged in response.


    "Well unlike you, I actually have friends." Ricky mocked Abraham, who began to retort but fell silent as he realized the truth in Ricky''s words.


    "Shut up." Abraham scoffed, unable to find anything to say and walked away.


    To the side, Father Sebastion was graciously talking with Lucky who was enthusiastic the entire time.


    "Aye Slick." Lucky pulled him to the side once they were finished conversing.


    "Listen dumbass, this is your chance to make good with the church so don''t f*ck it up." Lucky whispered in a dangerous tone while poking his chest as he nodded.


    "So when you show Father Sebastion around the city, you better not insult his holiness." Lucky spoke up as Ricky finally grasped what Father Sebastian had explained to him.


    "Alright, I won''t." Ricky nodded in understanding, but Lucky continued to stare at him for a long time before eventually nodding in agreement.


    "Good, now while you do that I''m going to spread this fact to anyone who ain''t deaf." Lucky patted Ricky on the shoulder and walked away towards the crowd of the Luciano family, who were watching Ricky interact with the priest with a mix of curiosity and friendliness.


    "Now child, shall we depart in order to exorcise those monsters from god''s plain?" Father Sebastion patted Ricky''s shoulder, leading him forward.


    "Of course Father."


    Then out of the shocked eyes of the Luciano family, Ricky and the father walked toe in tow out of the back of the church as Lucky smirked.


    "Lucky, what was that all about?" Genovese, Lucky''s underboss, asked with clear jealousy in the corners of his eyes.


    "My boy evidently caught the eye of that Vatican official, Father Sebastion, so he decided to show them around before they take care of Vatican business." Lucky said loud enough so that the surrounding men could hear.


    "L-Lucky isn''t that a little too presumptuous-" Genovese tried to simplify his words, only for the other members to flock to them like birds.


    "Do you think he''d pay a visit to Eddy, Lucky?" Frank asked, pushing the jealous Genovese out of the way.


    "What do you think made Slick catch the father''s eyes?" Johnny then asked, pushing Genovese even further out of the way.


    "Hey Boss-"


    "Boss did he-"


    Numerous questions poured out after Frank''s enthusiastic request while Genovese, the underboss of the family and holding the second rank, was pushed to the side even by mere grunts, until he stood alone at the side.


    ''I don''t know why all these guys are so taken with Slick, he ain''t that special.'' Genovese stewed inside as a seed of jealousy was slowly planted within him.


    Meanwhile at the warehouse,


    Seven of them packed into the van from earlier, making sure there was enough room for everyone, before arriving at the entrance of the evacuated tomb.


    "Oh by the travesty of god." Father Sebastian covered his mouth in horror at the unholy sight that greeted him in the excavated tomb.


    The bodies of men, worked to their very bones, littered the surroundings, and Father Sebastian''s heart ached at the sight.


    "Oh lord, please bless these children whose fate fell to those wicked creatures'' desires-'''' Father Sebastian began to pray, while Abraham surveyed the tomb, his attention drawn to the faint prints on the ground.


    "Those monsters probably are using those captured humans as fodder to escape the traps." Abraham took a guess, and Ricky scanned the surroundings before nodding in agreement.


    "Alright Jake, Chores, and Barko, get our back while we head into the tomb." Ricky issued the order, and the three of them nodded in response.


    Jake loaded his tommy gun clipped specially blessed by Father Sebastion, Barko got perked up his ears to hear any and every sound in the premises, and Chores cracked his bare knuckles.


    "Hey Chores." Ricky, seeing this, pulled out the brass knuckles he received all those years ago and threw it to him as he caught it.


    "But these-........I see" Chores was about to retort until he noticed the brass knuckles seemingly expanding to fit his fist as he didn''t question it and simply slid them onto his right hand.


    Ricky then drew his bow and brandished his newly acquired quiver, which immediately caught Abraham''s attention who scrutinized him with suspicion.


    "Where did you-


    "Nevermind logic, let''s go kill this f*cking vampire."

 Chapter 47: Ghoulish Reunion

    Chapter 47: Ghoulish Reunion


    As they walked through the tomb, they grabbed a torch from the wall and Abraham lit it, revealing the scene just as he had predicted.


    The tomb was littered with the bodies of humans, taken as slaves by the vampires, who had fallen victim to various traps around about twenty-five in total.


    "Damn." Abraham whispered, his voice tinged with guilt, as he blamed himself for not acting sooner to prevent this.


    Abraham had witnessed similar scenes before; vampires, much like humans, didn''t value their food, treating them as mere tools or livestock.


    "Now, Young Ricky, when you pull back on your bowstring, make sure to either let out a breath to steady your aim or take one in. I''ve seen it done both ways." Alexander reminded Ricky, informing him that even though he hadn''t yet taught him the finer points of archery, as his teacher, he didn''t want to see him slacking.


    A faint ringing echoed in Ricky''s head as he took a slight breath, pulling an arrow from his newly acquired quiver and knocking it on the bowstring.


    The Solar Flare bow wrapped the regular arrow in a bed of flames as Ricky drew it back to his cheek. Without a moment''s hesitation, he released the three fingers holding the bowstring.


    The flaming arrow shot into the air, its fiery light illuminating the path of his vision.


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" A ghoul''s agonized shriek echoed through the air as the arrow pierced its twisted form.


    The monster was instantly engulfed in the flames of the Solar Flare bow, its body consumed by the searing heat until it disintegrated into nothingness on the spot.


    "What the!" Abraham looked up just in time, to see the ghoul burning up before only the arrow remained.


    "Holy sh*t, I actually hit something." Ricky whispered under his breath, really only wanting to do a practice shot but instead, actually managed to already kill one.


    His eyes widened after the light disappeared though it revealed the other two ghouls next to its dead brethren.


    "Roll away, young Ricky!" Alexander commanded as his paws gripped onto Ricky''s shoulder though he was already rolling away.


    *BAM*


    "A MERE HUMAN DARE!" As a ghoul appeared in the exact spot where Ricky had been, he swiftly pulled an arrow from his quiver and knocked it on the bowstring.


    "THE LORD IS RIGHTEOUS, HE GUIDES THE FLAMES OF THE DAMNED TO PUNISH THOSE WHO HAVE STRAYED INTO THE DARKNESS!" Father Sebastion commanded, grabbing the torch from Abraham and morphing the flames of it into a goat.


    The flaming goat charged forward, its blazing form cutting through the air with relentless speed.


    Lowering its horns, it impaled the ghoul, driving its fiery essence deep into the creature''s twisted flesh.


    The ghoul writhed in agony as the searing heat consumed it from within, reducing it to ashes in a matter of moments.


    "SCREEEEEE!" The ghoul burned through the holy fire, but Abraham, on the side, took out a crossbow and shot it at the ghoul just as it was about to lunge at Father Sebastian.


    The ghoul didn''t even get to launch off the ceiling before it was burnt to a crisp by the impact of the bolt.


    "I didn''t even realize that the ceiling was that high." Abraham let out a sharp exhale, his breath carrying the weight of realization as he glanced upward, noticing how the ceiling had seemingly crept closer, transforming their surroundings into a confining hall.


    The walls, adorned with ancient glyphs and eerie carvings, seemed to whisper of long-forgotten secrets.


    Ricky, undeterred by the ominous atmosphere, continued to draw his bow with a steady hand.


    Sensing an impending danger, he didn''t hesitate and released another flamed wrapped arrow as the arrow flew forth with a fierce velocity, leaving a trail of light in its wake.


    Then amidst the shock of not only Ricky''s eyes but the other two''s, the arrow split its being into eight other projectiles in all directions as the light lit up the entire hall, it suddenly revealed twelve ghouls lying in wait.


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEE!" Two stray arrows found their mark, embedding themselves into two ghouls.


    The creatures let out piercing screeches of anguish, which only enraged the surrounding ghouls further.


    "Uh oh." Ricky voiced the thoughts that were on everyone''s minds when gazing at the small hoard, prompting both the priest and Abraham to immediately reach into their robes.


    "KILL THEM!" A ghoul emitted a horrifying screech as it charged forward, followed closely by nine of its fellow brethren.


    *DINK*


    The nine ghouls were abruptly halted by an invisible barrier, slamming into it only to be seemingly stopped from this unknown force.


    The two of Abraham and Father Sebastion looked at Ricky, who had conjured the unseen wall a short distance in front of them.


    "Don''t just sit there, f*cking do something!" Ricky yelled, gnashing his teeth at the two, who flinched but quickly resumed their tasks.


    "The flames of my lord, guide me-"


    "You think you''re all that cause you killed a couple ghouls-"


    Both Father Sebastion and Abraham muttered different incantations.


    Father Sebastian commanded the torches to flame up and multiply, creating brilliant steeds that chased and warded off the ghouls.


    Meanwhile, Abraham started dual-wielding crossbows, swiftly firing bolts at the approaching undead.


    The air filled with the sound of hissing and screeching as the ghouls were met with a barrage of fiery projectiles and bolts, forcing them to retreat momentarily.


    "Now child!" Father Sebastian shouted towards Ricky, who lowered the invisible walls and released his arrow.


    It shot forward but narrowly missed its target, grazing the side of a ghoul, before the undead monstrosity sped up its haste towards the three.


    "Dammit!" Ricky clicked his tongue, pulling out another arrow as a steadfast Alexander squinted his eyes.


    "Keep your breathing calm Ricky, you''re being too hasty." Alexander reassured Ricky, who focused on controlling his breathing as he pulled back his bowstring, all while watching Father Sebastian and Abraham launch their attacks.


    The fiery steeds of Father Sebastian trekked through the air, rushing towards the oncoming ghouls with such ferocity.


    Three more ghouls fell to the horses though the ones who sought to avoid the stray horses were buried in the waves of bolts shooting out of Abraham''s crossbow.


    Ricky, seeing four ghouls left, pulled back the arrow as he took a deep breath in and aimed at the center most one.


    As he released his grip, the ghouls, having regained their senses, watched Father Sebastian and Abraham prepare for an attack with malicious smiles.


    Yet, their sinister expressions transformed into shock as their pitch-black pupils reflected a swirling dove of flames.


    The flames from the Solar Flare Bow combined with the Quiver Of Chance morphed into exquisite fiery doves, their presence commanding elegance from the very air they touched.


    The doves circled gracefully around the arrow, their beauty and power creating a mesmerizing spectacle.


    "Such beauty." A ghoul stopped dead in its tracks as the fiery sea of doves guided the arrow into the ghouls being.


    Then in the next second, the doves covered the ghoul in a blinding light only for the next instance, his entire body had been completely swept away with the dove''s brilliance before they guided the arrow towards the next ghoul.


    "SCREEEEEEEEE!"


    "NO! NO-SCREEEEEEEEEEEEE!"


    "I SURRENDER, I-SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!"


    The doves, although beautiful, were relentless in their pursuits as they immediately guided the arrow into the nearest ghoul, one after another.


    As the last remaining ghoul burst into dust, the remaining creatures didn''t advance but instead retreated in complete fear.


    However, the doves'' purpose had not been fulfilled as they surged forward with the arrow, sweeping away a ghoul determined to survive, before only one remained.


    The lone ghoul tried to make its way towards the door, but the doves collided into its being, causing it to immediately disappear.


    As if they had never been there in the first place, the only evidence of their existence was the lone arrow plunged into the ground.


    "Woah." Ricky looked at his bow then back at the arrow as two shocked expressions turned back to him.


    "How did you-"


    "Child, how were you able to command holy flames?" Father Sebastion, misinterpreting the appearance of doves as they were one of the few holy animals of heaves, thinking that Ricky had conjured the holy flames into messengers of the heavens.


    "Wait Seb, that kid isn''t actually-"


    "Child, we need to converse after this is all said and done." Father seriously spoke as Abrahm sighed heavily but Ricky only raised an eyebrow though shrugged it off.


    "Alright." Ricky obviously wasn''t to correct this misunderstanding that worked out in his favor as Abraham sneered at this total fraud.


    "Alright, alright." Abraham whispered to himself in a condescending tone, mocking Ricky though stopped once Father Sebastion sent him a glare.


    Continuing their trek towards the deepest region of this lost temple, Father Sebastion took the lead while guiding them through the countless littered bodies of those human captives that fell to the cruelty of the traps and taking the fate instead of these monsters.


    Meanwhile in the center most region of the temple, the fake Dracula stood with an ecstatic expression as he gazed at a coffin.


    "Open it, cattle." Dracula commanded the last ten of the original one hundred minions that remained.


    Among these final ten were the abducted men, including the shopkeeper from long ago, Elijah.


    The ten men wore defeated expressions, their faces marked by the inevitability of their doom.


    Believing the coffin was a deathly trap, sealing their fate but even if they wanted to run they had no choice in front of these monsters and, with heavy hearts, walked forward, pushing the coffin.


    "SCREEEEEEEEEE!" The screams of the ghouls nested outside to keep out any intruders sounded to everyone in the room as Dracula had an ugly expression.


    "Nexor, take the rest of the ghouls and kill that damn Van Helsing." Dracula commanded towards the ghoul leader, Nexor, nodding his head as he gazed at the eight remaining ghouls.


    "At once Lord." Nexor seemingly flew forwards, crawling at rapid speeds as his small horde of ghouls followed him.


    "HURRY UP YOU USELESS LOWLY BLOOD BAGS!" Dracula spoke in a fury, but if one listened closely, they could detect the anxiety underlying his tone.


    The ghouls, led by Nexor, hurried through the halls, only to encounter the familiar figure wearing an arrogant and narcissistic smile.


    "It is you." Nexor hissed, recognizing the figure shooting arrows as the same human from before.


    Watching Ricky release an arrow and pierce the last ghoul in front of him, seeing his brethren morph into ash.


    "It is me!" Ricky antagonized Nexor with a laugh, drawing his arrow back and firing it right at Nexor''s heart.


    The arrow barreled forward as it started playing an infectious tune though Nexor dodged the arrow with ease.


    The arrow missed its mark though as it dug into the ground, its impact creating a mesmerizing music, charming enemies and luring them away from Ricky.


    Even Nexor had his gaze stolen for a second, his eyes glazed momentarily until they suddenly returned to its original necrotic state as he furiously gazed at his brethren running towards it.


    "SNAP OUT OF IT YOU FOOLS-"


    "AND GOD SENT HIS CHARIOT OF FLAMES!" Father Sebastian roared, and Nexor instinctively flew backward in an instant.


    His eyes locked onto the golden chariot of flames, fury igniting within him though he remained calm.


    Instead of confronting the flames directly, he turned and sped towards the arrow that had ensnared his brethren.


    Moving at unfathomable speeds, Nexor snatched the enchanted arrow and, in the next instant, hurled it towards the chariot.


    *BOOM*


    The chariot exploded in a golden array, eviscerating the enchanted arrow and snapping the ghouls out of their trance.


    Abraham wasn''t idle; he swiftly grabbed his crossbows and unleashed a rapid wave of bolts at the gathered ghouls.


    Nexor swiped his hands through the air, creating a powerful gust that blew away all of the bolt''s from mid-air.


    "Ah, if it isn''t the pitiful Abraham." Nexor taunted Abraham, the ghouls behind him snickering while Van Helsing frowned.


    "Nexor." Abraham instantly recognized the ghoul, who politely bowed as it introduced itself.


    "Why are you here, shouldn''t you be sucking Dracula''s cock back in Transylvania?" Abraham hatefully seethed, Father Sebastion nudging him but the old man was firm in his insult.


    "Oh, Abraham, and they say our mouths are the one''s filled with rotten flesh." Nexor chuckled, his gaze mocking while Abraham crossed his arms, his expression one of deep-seated hatred.


    "Do you know this guy?" Ricky whispered to Father Sebastion who unfortunately nodded.


    "That is Nexor, an elite ghoul who should be under Dracula." Father Sebastian whispered back, but it did little to help Ricky understand the situation.


    "Why aren''t you serving Dracula-"


    "Abraham, unlike you, everyone changes with time. Not all of us are stuck in the past," Nexor taunted, knowing exactly which buttons to press as Abraham gripped his crossbows tightly in response.


    *Bang*


    "Cute." Nexor grabbed the crossbolt mid-air, snapping it between his boney fingers then throwing it away.


    "You never were one for conversation, it must be why you''re hanging around that one." Nexor then gazed at Ricky, raising his gaze.


    "Mutant, have you thought of my proposal?" Nexor asked, tilting his head though Ricky wore an ugly expression.


    "And be a rotten flesh bag?" Ricky surveyed the ghouls, his distaste growing as he looked past their horrid smell.


    Their appearance was so grotesque that not even a mother could love them and Ricky was too narcissistic to give his looks up for mere strength.


    "Yeah, I''ll pass." Ricky declined, Nexor shrugging since the life of a ghoul wasn''t for everyone and understood.


    "Very well, then I guess I''ll just eat your flesh." Nexor let out a malicious grin, revealing his sharp, triple-row of teeth.


    "Kill the priest and Van Helsing, I''ll dine alone on the mutant." Nexor flicked his hand, a green smog hovering around his horde.


    *CRACK*


    *CRACK*


    "F*cking flesh magic." Abraham sneered under his breath, watching Nexor control the flesh of his fellow ghouls and strengthen them.


    "What the hell is flesh magic-"


    *BAM*


    Ricky''s head throbbed as he instinctively raised his barrier as Nexor slammed his fist into it, his smile turning into a carnivorous grin.


    "You should really learn to read the context of the situation." Nexor mocked Ricky, observing him from behind the mental barrier as Ricky pulled back his bowstring.


    "Contextualize this!" Ricky didn''t have a better comeback, saying the first thing that came to his mind and releasing the arrow.


    "Contextualize this, really?" Abraham laughed from the side, being thrown to the side but killing a ghoul.


    "Oh shut up, I can''t always hit the mark." Ricky yelled, Nexor inspecting the barrier with intrigue since it had grown stronger.


    "Literally." Father Sebastion unconsciously retorted, widening his eyes and realizing what he had done.


    "Father!" Ricky yelled at Father Sebastion, seeing his guilt ridden face only for Nexor to laugh out.


    *CRACK*


    Nexor slammed his fist into a certain spot which made the barrier splinter, causing Ricky to gaze to the side in horror.


    "What the-"


    "Young Ricky, your foe has deduced the blindspot in your barrier." Alexander, obviously attuned to this part of Ricky''s power, immediately spoke.


    Alexander had kept it to himself, planning to cover it in his training, but he hadn''t expected Nexor to figure it out in just two encounters.


    "Dammit." Ricky only winced at his barrier being broken, turning his bow and arrow to Nexor before suddenly turning the table.


    In the next second, Ricky wrapped Nexor in his own barrier before straining his mind to repair the damages instantaneously.


    "Oh my, you''ve grown." Nexor complimented, watching with amusement as Ricky released his fiery arrow, only for it to be suddenly interrupted by the explosion of Nexor''s fist.


    *Boom*


    The arrow pierced Nexor''s fist, but the projectile exploded in a burst of flesh as the ghoul sacrificed his arm to absorb the impact.


    "To think you''ve managed to actually destroy one of my appendages, I suppose I cannot toy with you any longer." Nexor then transformed the flesh into an acidic substance, compelling Ricky to drop the barrier as the corrosive effect ate through it.


    However instead of attacking Ricky, the ghoul leaped towards Father Sebastion sparking Abraham''s attention.


    *BAM*


    In this splitting attention, the ghouls fighting Abraham suddenly managed to lay an attack with Father Sebastion preparing a spell.


    Only that Nexor quickly ran past him, his eyes gleaming at Abraham only for a light to appear behind him.


    Without even a second of hesitation, Nexor grabbed a nearby ghoul and threw it behind him without looking.


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEEE!"


    The sounds signified the ghoul being pierced by the arrow with Ricky, surprised by the sacrifice, realizing he should have anticipated such a move.


    *Sigh*


    "Dammit." Ricky, already bloodshot in his right eye, knew he had to act if he wanted to keep up this hero''s bravado in front of Father Sebastion.


    *BAM*


    "Argh." Ricky grunted, Nexor smashing through the blindspot of the barrier seemingly already predicting he would act, though Abraham smiled.


    "You!" Nexor yelled at Abraham, seeing him reveal a holy grenade from his own pocket forcing the ghoul to back up.


    However instead of a blinding flash of his self sacrifice, Abraham pulled out a smoke bomb and threw it on the ground.


    "Did he just bluff Nexor?" Ricky unconsciously asked out, seeing Nexor furiously swipe in the smoke.


    "And that kid, is how you blend into the shadows." Abraham appeared next to the two of them, holding the pulled holy grenade.


    "Also, it wasn''t a bluff, just had a defective firing pin." Abraham then threw the holy grenade at Nexor who immediately turned around.


    Without pausing to line up his shot, Abraham fired his crossbow at the grenade mid-air as an explosive white light burst forth, blinding everyone in the vicinity.


    Gnashing his sharp teeth, Nexor ripped out a chunk of the wall as the surroundings were completely covered in a holy light.


    *WHOOSH*


    Then in the next second, the light condensed back revealing the scene of all two more ghouls fading into obscurity.


    "I see you haven''t lost your touch, Abraham," Nexor remarked, his tone dripping with a twisted form of admiration as he glanced to the side.


    Nexor saw his brethren being torn apart, the holy magic slowly whittling their numbers and seeing the situation he closed his eyes with slight heartache.


    "Forgive me brothers."


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" Then in the next second, Nexor'' eyes flashed in a green light as his last four let out pained screams.


    As the three of them saw the situation shift in Nexor''s favor, he extended his hands, causing the ghouls to squirm in place as if they were puppets under his command.


    "CHILD STOP HIM, HE IS HARNESS HIS FELLOW GHOULS TO CAST ADVANCED FLESH MAGIC!" Father Sebastion, not able to cast fast enough, urgently requested of Ricky who had already drawn his bowstring.


    "Already on it, father." Ricky calmly said, releasing the arrow as he watched the rotten flash on the ghouls melt from their bones in such a grotusque way.


    At first glance, the arrow appeared ordinary, but as its light flared and then dimmed, leaving shadows in its wake, dark spears of tendrils shot out from behind it, all converging directly on Nexor.


    "You''re too late." Nexor''s calm voice sent a shiver through all of their bodies.


    His hands glowing with a bright green light, the melted flesh of his fallen brethren began to coalesce into a sludge-like abomination, encircling Nexor in a grotesque mass.


    As the tendrils made contact with the rotting sludge of flesh, instead of repelling it, they absorbed it into their mass, seemingly empowering the grotesque formation.


    "Dammit!" Abraham holstered one of his crossbows and pulled out a high-grade bottle of holy water, a level below the one that Ricky had stolen from him.


    "What is happening?" Ricky asked with disgust, firing arrows at the sludge wall which dinked off to the side or were absorbed to with no effect.


    "Kid, get back-" Abraham pushed Ricky back, stepping forward towards the sludge-like abomination slithering around Nexor.


    "I shall end this farce here." Nexor calmly pointed, commanding the flesh wall into a tsunami and thrusting it towards the three of them.


    Countless faces formed on its towering wave, their anguished wails ringing out in a deafening screech as it sought to swallow the three of them whole.


    "YOUNG RICKY, YOU MUST USE YOUR POWER! THE BOW WILL NOT BE ENOUGH TO COUNTER THIS MAGIC!" Alexander quickly informed him as Ricky didn''t hesitate to put up his barrier and reinforcing it to its extreme.


    "What are you-" Abraham was on the verge of acting when Ricky abruptly yanked his collar back.


    His eyes widened in alarm as he reached out, fearing that the kid was about to sacrifice himself.


    "DON''T!" Abraham yelled instinctively, only for Ricky to kick his jaw and yell at his gerbil.


    "I know, I was just waiting for that douchebag to finally use magic on me!" Ricky grunted as he activated his forcefield, just in time for the flesh tsunami to crash against his shield.


    "HOLD IT STEADY KID OR WE''RE FINISHED!" Abraham yelled his weird words of encouragement as Father Sebastion started casting a holy spell.


    "NO SH*T!" Ricky shouted, bracing himself as he waited for the precise moment to make his move.


    The screams of the tortured rang in their ears, the force pushing and pulling against Ricky''s mind while holding it steady.


    Ricky gritted his teeth, his fingers turning white from the strain as they began to shake but despite the pressure, a wide smile spread across his face as he sensed the timing was perfect.


    "FULL COUNTER!" Ricky yelled once the conditions were fulfilled, swiping his bow as a small light shining in the middle of the flesh before it completely shot backwards at Nexor.


    "H-How?" Nexor saw his towering flesh tsunami double in strength and redirect itself at Nexor who tried to maneuver his hands basked in pale green light.


    But those walls didn''t answer his call, the wails convulsing into angered riddled roars as the hollow faced eagerly gazed at Necrotic with only one intention, to consume.


    "Master, look-" Nexor eye''s were coated red, too weak to dodge or repel as the faces of the rotten flesh collided into his monstrous being while seemingly eating him whole.


    The flesh splattered all over the area, almost covering the three of them before Ricky put up his shield again to block the spray of rotten flesh.


    Ricky commanded his mental barrier to part, pushing aside the rotting flesh to reveal the horrific scene before them.


    The walls and floors were coated in a thick layer of putrid flesh, exuding an unbearable stench that made Ricky immediately use the barrier to form an astronaut-like helmet around his head to block out the smell.


    Amid the devastation, Ricky''s gaze settled on the half-consumed remains of Nexor, a grisly testament to the chaos that had unfolded.


    Nexor''s strength and magical power were completely depleted, leaving him unable to scream.


    The last vestiges of his self-preservation instinct drove him to crawl away, but he failed in his desperate struggle.


    As the grotesque faces of the flesh consumed him, they slowly withered away, about to leave nothing behind except his regret.


    Before the three could even turn their gaze toward the entrance of the tomb, a blinding light burst through the hallway, streaming all the way to the entrance.


    Jake, Chores, and Barko, standing at the threshold, were taken aback by the intense radiance that illuminated the cavernous space.


    "What was that?" Barko asked as Jake bit his lip, looking at the entrance before back at the front.


    "Screw it!" Jake shouted, charging into the tomb with urgency, causing Chores and Barko to flinch at his sudden movement.


    "Wait Jake, Slick told us to stay here-"


    "Then stay here!" Jake countered Chores as the latter gazed at Barko who shrugged


    *Sigh*


    "Let''s go." Chores then ran forwards with Barko following close behind.


    "NO!" Abraham yelled with horrified eyes as he gazed at the entrance to the center most part of the tomb.


    "You''re too late, my lord has won." Nexor closed his eyes with a victorious smile as the last of his being was eaten away, accepting this defeat for his lord''s victory.


    Abraham jerked his head to the entrance while taking out one of the vials designated for the supposed real Dracula.


    "You two wait here, I''ll take care of him!"

 Chapter 48: Imposter Revealed

    Chapter 48: Imposter Revealed


    *BAM*


    Abraham barely stepped through the entrance when a force blasted him back, hurling him into a heap of rotten flesh.


    *PFFFT*


    Ricky burst into laughter as he watched Abraham sink into the rotten flesh, while Father Sebastian called out in concern.


    "ABRAHAM-"


    "Wait Father, he did say he would handle this after all." Ricky replied in a condescending tone as he saw the disgusted face of Abraham claw his way out of the meat pile.


    "If it isn''t the notorious Abraham van Helsing, the blood bag that has haunted my ignorant father for the last century." A call resounded from the entrance but Abraham''s disgust wasn''t on being covered in the pungent flesh, but at the being who threw him into it.


    "Xarus Tepes." Abraham walked back into the entrance before Ricky and Father Sebastion followed him to see the sight of the vampire masscarding as Dracula himself, his son Xarus Tepes.


    "I am very honored that you remembered me, but alas, I shouldn''t be surprised since my notoriety is as vast as your reputation after all." Xarus arrogantly spoke, adorned in a shining orange pendant.


    Xarus had a very thin frame as his deathly pale skin cast an eerie glow while his spiky black hair stood tall while wearing the clothes of a British noble.


    "Who is he?" Ricky leaned over to ask Father Sebatison who also leaned in.


    "He''s one of Dracula''s son though he is quite weak-"


    "WEAK, A MERE HUMAN DARES TO CALL ME, XARUS TEPES THIRD SON OF DRACULA, WEAK!" Xarus roared, his eyes strained as the amulet radiated in a bright light before that familiar gord was levitated above him.


    *BOOM*


    *CRACK*


    In a split second, Ricky felt the danger and put up his barrier right as a blood spear amplified to a frightening degree and was shot at him at unparalleled speeds.


    The blood spear slammed into Ricky, creating a medium-sized crack in his barrier as Ricky let out a haggard breath, the force of the impact clearly taking its toll.


    ''Full counter''


    *BOOOOM*


    *BAM*


    The blood spear was then hurled back at Xarus with doubled strength, trailing a large cloud of dust in its wake.


    "Hmmmmmm, that is very troubling." The dust cleared to reveal Xarus with only a slight incision of his cheek which quickly healed up.


    "I suppose I didn''t see it wrong within the eyes of my minion, you can really repel magic attacks back at the user with twice the power, very interesting." Xarus brushed the dust from his clothes before hovering back above the coffin.


    "What''s with a sudden change in behavior-" Ricky asked, trying to assess what was happening as the atmosphere suddenly switched.


    "You fool, do you think I''d be distraught by the mere words of a lowly priest?" Xarus scoffed as Ricky scrunched his eyebrows.


    "I simply lured you into the train of thought that I was retaliating out of anger to assess your unique magic." Xarus admitted, looking at his fingers while Ricky suddenly became on guard.


    "KID GET READY-"


    "But can it redirect regular physical attacks?" Xarus curiously asked, however this time, he was right in front of Ricky shield.


    *BAM*


    Xarus collided his fist into the barrier with a mind numbing force, Ricky''s eyebrow twitched from the strain as a slight sonic wave rippled out in result of the collision.


    "Hmmmmmm." Xarus rubbed his chin while not even giving Abraham nor Father Sebastion the time of day as if them preparing for their attacks weren''t a threat to him at all.


    "Let''s see something, shall we?" Xarus disappeared and reappeared next to the ten black men while using his magic to lift them into the air.


    "RICKY, DON''T DROP THE BARRIER!" Abraham commanded while Father Sebastian controlled his spell with another agenda.


    "DROP THE BARRIER RICKY, WE MUST SAVE THEM!" Father Sebastion yelled, causing Ricky to grit his teeth as he suddenly saw the ten men thrown at him.


    "DAMMIT!" Ricky yelled since he still wanted to be in Father Sebastion good faith, choosing him while slightly dropping the barrier as Xarus dashed upon throwing the men at them.


    Ricky then waited for the men to cross a certain threshold before creating a thin wall on the other side of them right as Xarus collided into it.


    "Oh I see, you can control these barriers into different forms instead of a mere circle." Xarus nodded his head, deducing more of his powers upon seeing it firsthand for the second time.


    Xarus then backed up in the literal next second as Ricky formed mental spikes and shot them forward at Xarus who easily dodged them.


    Although Xarus couldn''t actually see them, his ability to perceive his surroundings was heighted to such degree''s that he could sense them.


    "Tsk, tsk, you still have a long way to go." Xarus easily dodged the attempts as he turned his pessimistic gaze towards Ricky who was smirking.


    "What are you-SHIELD!" Xarus asked only to suddenly cast out a spell upon seeing Abrahm crushing a vial.


    Abraham couldn''t wield magic from within, but he could manipulate any magic in the air. The vial he had just crushed released a surge of dense magic, which he quickly seized control of.


    Channeling the magic into his hands, a bright light suddenly erupted as Abraham crushed the supreme holy water in his grasp to combine the two forces in a terrifying holy spell.


    In response, Xarus enveloped himself in layer after layer of blood shields, preparing for the impending clash.


    "PURIFYING EMBRACE!" Abraham roared as the concoction he seemingly brewed formed into a beautiful angel.


    It didn''t show any malice when gazing at the unholy Xarus, but instead, held out its golden arms and took the blood shields into its embrace.


    No distaste could be deciphered or hatred could be seen on the angel''s face but instead it wept in sorrow, tears for this being set on the wrong path as it started to purify it.


    Abraham fell to his knees from the strain, the tips of his finger''s peeling from the backlash since a being without any magic trying to control something with such a vast amount of magic, had no protection against the brunt of the spell.


    "ABRAHAM!" Father Sebastion, after sending the last of the enslaved men out the doors, rushed to his friend''s aide while immediately grabbing onto him.


    The last enslaved man didn''t leave immediately and instead, he glanced back at Ricky with a look of solemn gratitude before slowly limping out of the door.


    Ricky on the other hand, was starting to pull out his one-time use items since his mind was still blaring signaling that this probably wasn''t enough.


    Father Sebastion shared in the strain as his magic pool was all but drained, yet sought in an attempt to save Abrham''s life.


    The light ceased in the surroundings and Father Sebastion was the one who collapsed while the exhausted Abraham tiredly caught him.


    The fingers holding Father Sebastion had the tips, including his nails, completely ripped off with his bleeding flesh staining his priestly robes.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" The maniacal laughter of Xarus let out as burn marks littered his being but it was only smaller regions of his body, showing no fatal harm.


    However much to his pain, they weren''t going away as his healing factor couldn''t heal something so pure without help from outside dark forces.


    "Don''t tell me this was what you were to use on my father?" Xarus covered his face in ridicule as Abraham''s expression sank at only him having a couple burn marks.


    "You only withstood it because of that amulet-"


    "Oh come on Abraham, we both know that those words are false." Xarus shook his head, hovering in the air while wagging his finger as Ricky focused intently at the side while they conversed.


    Alexander quickly rushed to his shoulder, Ricky squinting as if focusing on a certain area.


    "Maybe twenty years ago when you actually had your core could you have killed me, but let''s face it Abraham, your age has finally caught up with you." Xarus pointed at him with a smirk as Alexander whispered in Ricky''s ears.


    "No that''s-"


    "Now don''t worry, after I''ve brutally murdered these two before your very eyes, I''ll make you into my pet ghoul where you''ll serve in my army against my foolish father." Xarus laughed in excitement at this project as Abraham flinched.


    "You would go against your lord-" Abraham asked, knowing the hierarchical nature of the Vampire race.


    "HE IS NOT MY LORD-"


    *Ahem*


    "Dracula merely f*cked some whore to create me along with a spell, he is not my master for it." Xarus corrected as he stuck out his hand.


    *SPALT*


    Then to Xarus'' astonishment and Abrahram''s, invisible spikes impaled his being from all sides as Ricky had been controlling his mental barrier to wholly wrap around Xarus before curling them into various spears.


    *COUGH*


    Xarus coughed up a large mouthful of blood as Abrham turned his head towards the already celebrating Ricky.


    "YOU IDIOT, YOU-"


    "Should''ve gone for my head." Xarus suddenly teleported using magic in front of Ricky.


    *BAM*


    *COUGH*


    *CRACK*


    *SPLAT*


    Ricky''s instincts screamed danger, but before he could react, Xarus''s fist slammed into his chest with a bone-crushing force.


    The impact shattered all of Ricky''s ribs in an instant, sending a shockwave of pain through his body.


    Blood gushed from Ricky''s mouth in a huge, crimson arc as the force of the blow hurled him backward.


    His body sailed through the air, crashing through the entrance and landing outside with a heavy thud, leaving him gasping for breath and writhing in agony.


    "KID!" Abraham screeched in despair, watching the horrifying sight of Ricky''s chest caving in as Xarus surprisingly didn''t chase after him but arrogantly looked back at Abraham.


    "Now where was I? Oh yes, I''m going to slaughter your little comrades in front of you then make you into a ghoul." Xarus elegantly walked over to Abrahm and pushed him aside while holding a drained and passed out Father Sebastion over Abraham.


    "Young Ricky, YOUNG RICKY!" Alexander, who had barely hung onto Ricky''s shoulder, patted his summoner''s cheek.


    "No, no, no, no!" Alexander yelled in immense guilt since the entire idea of attacking Xarus the way Ricky did was his idea.


    Though neither of them knew that the only way to kill a noble vampire was to cut off their head or put them into an animated state with a wooden stake.


    However Ricky was the one to pay the price of their foolish mistake while Alexander could only helplessly watch.


    *CRACK*


    Then in the next second, Ricky''s accelerated healing began to take effect.


    His shattered ribs slowly cracked back into place, each bone painfully realigning with a series of grating sounds.


    As the last rib settled, Ricky let out a small, relieved breath from his dried lips, his body still trembling from the ordeal.


    "Oh god~" Ricky whined out, grabbing his caved chest which was slowly healing in such a grotesque way back to its original formation.


    Though the healing process wasn''t instantaneous and might take thirty minutes to an hour, Ricky didn''t want to move.


    Alexander, however, was already jumping on his shoulder, not allowing for him to wallow in such a defeated state.


    "Young Ricky, you must stand against the mighty foe of pain and reclaim the glory that was stolen from you!" Alexander quickly informed him though RIcky waved his hand.


    "I give up." Ricky said in a painful tone, shaking his head to dissuade Alexander though he only infuriated him.


    "IF YOU GIVE UP THEN YOU''LL DIE, DO WANT TO DIE!" Alexander slapped Ricky''s face though it barely made a dent though they did have merit.


    "Of course not, I wanted to kill that bastard but it''s just really hard-OW!" Ricky slightly whined only to have Alexander poke his cheek with a small toothpick-like spear.


    "If you die here, then everything you''ve accomplished will be for nothing." Alexander spoke to Ricky with a serious tone, causing Ricky to fall silent.


    *Sigh*


    ''Yeah, he''s right. I''ve wasted too much time preparing to just give up now.'' Ricky thought, as Alexander''s favorability toward him subtly increased.


    Alexander''s Favorability: 58 (+33)


    "Exactly, now get up so we can hatch our surprise attack!" Alexander, reaching above fifty, could hear Ricky''s directed thoughts toward him as he sighed.


    "Fine, let''s get this over with already."


    "ARGH!" Father Sebastion let out a pained grunt as Xarus held his neck in front of Abraham who was clawing at his feet.


    "LET HIM GO YOU BASTARD!" Abraham roared, his eyes furious while scratching at the vampire''s ankle.


    "Not until I''ve tortured him for at least another ten minutes-really?" Xarus was about to make him suffer even more until he caught a flaming arrow without even looking.


    Turning towards the side, Xarus saw the angered Ricky yelling at a small gerbil covered in ancient greek armor.


    "You said it would work!" Ricky yelled while Alexander scratched his head since his surprise attacks always worked like that.


    *BOOM*


    The arrow suddenly exploded in Xarus'' hand as he instantly flew back and let go of Father Sebastian as Abraham caught him.


    "SEE!" Alexander pointed after the arrow conveniently exploded in Xarus'' hands as Ricky scoffed, drawing his bow back once more.


    "That was simply convenient, nothing more!" Ricky pulled the arrow back once the smoke cleared to a clearly furious Xarus.


    "How are you alive!" Xarus said though his question was answered after seeing Ricky''s chest slowly inflating up as he scoffed.


    "Luck?" Ricky tilted his head, firing the arrow as Xarus dodged it only for it to suddenly turn into a sentient plant and wrap itself around him.


    "What is this?!" Xarus fought to break free, but the more he struggled, the fiercer the plant''s grip became.


    "What are you doing young Ricky, the plan-" Alexander, who had clearly laid out a detailed plan, saw Ricky completely take it off the tracks of reason.


    "Your plans keep getting my ass kicked, we''re going with my plan." Ricky grabbed the one off item, Stormcaller''s Conduit, and held it up into the sky.


    *BOOM*


    A burst of lightning exploded into the air, forcing Xarus to halt his movements as he squinted at the sudden thunderclouds forming ominously above him.


    As Xarus stopped moving, the sentient plant loosened its grip and fell off him, revealing its trap-like nature which was similar to a Chinese finger trap.


    Xarus tried to lunge at Ricky, but a blast of lightning crashed down on him, sending him flying backward as a trail of lightning strikes followed his every movement.


    Ricky in this time, was aiming his bow at Xarus, though he was horribly missing every shot as the vampire was too fast for him to comprehend.


    "Focus young Ricky, find the trail-"


    "I AM FOCUSING, BUT IT''S HARD WHEN THERE''S SOMEONE WHISPERING IN MY EAR!" Ricky yelled as he released his arrow, which burst into sparkling fireworks as the explosion created a wide area effect, striking Xarus directly.


    "Young Ricky, fly up!" Alexander yelled, and Ricky swiftly used his psychic powers to control a pillar, launching himself upward just as Xarus''s fist crashed down where he had been standing.


    Ricky''s eyes gleamed as he swiftly drew back his bow as the arrow shot through the air with lightning speed, striking Xarus in the shoulder.


    "You coward, fight me like a man!" Xarus yelled in frustration as Ricky''s tactics grew increasingly irksome.


    Ricky began forming invisible walkways and sprinted away along them, further aggravating the noble vampire.


    "No!" Ricky yelled back, pulling back his bow and arrow then shooting it at Xarus.


    Meanwhile, Abraham carried the unconscious Father Sebastian on his shoulder as he glanced at the chaotic scene, then turned his gaze to his only true friend in the world, feeling the weight of the moment.


    Abraham thought it was a high-class vampire, but he never would have guessed it was one of Dracula''s children as he knew Dracula kept them all on a tight leash.


    Xarus needed his entire focus which he couldn''t give with his friend in this state, deciding to make a decision that might forever haunt him.


    "Kid, I know it''s a lot but it''s up to you." Abraham shamelessly called out as he retreated from the temple, while Ricky readied his bow and took another shot.


    In essence, Ricky was pushing himself to the limit, transforming the room into a labyrinth.


    He filled it with various walls and psychic constructs, all designed to frustrate and disorient Xarus.


    *DINK*


    Xarus tried to dodge to the side, only to smack his face into an invisible wall as the arrow morphed into a flaming net that covered him.


    "Wait, what do you mean-" Ricky just registered Abraham''s words, realizing that the man was completely ditching him.


    *BOOM*


    "That''s it." Xarus''s deadly voice rang out, causing Ricky''s head to throb as he winced as the structures surrounding Xarus were completely eviscerated.


    Abraham saw this state, seeing Xarus use the power of the amulet to forcefully propel himself to a higher level though Abraham merely turned away from the scene.


    Biting his lip before shamelessly limping out of the entrance with Father Sebastian in his arms while leaving parting words.


    "Sorry kid."


    "YOU BASTARD-'''' Ricky''s eyes reddened as he watched Abraham flee.


    But just as he prepared to drag him back, a sharp pain blared through his head once more.


    "You will fall here, but you''ve proven useful so I''ll reanimate you into my servant." Xarus spoke as the gourd hovering next to him started pouring out blood from it.


    Ricky readied himself, every muscle tensed for the inevitable clash, but Xarus shifted tactics, his eyes narrowing with malevolent intent.


    The blood swirling around him, a dark and ominous tide, surged with newfound aggression.


    It lashed out violently though not directly at Ricky, slamming into the surrounding barriers within the room with a relentless fury.


    The barriers trembled under the assault, their protective sheen cracking and warping as the blood''s vicious strikes sought to break through.


    Ricky watched, his head pounding, as Xarus''s new strategy unfolded with a dangerous elegance.


    "Argh." Ricky stumbled, reeling from the psychic backlash as Xarus methodically dismantled the weaker barriers.


    He struggled to mount a full counter, his focus fractured by the intensity of the assault but before he could fully react, Xarus appeared suddenly before him.


    Xarus''s arm, suddenly brimming with explosive power, hurled itself toward Ricky as he managed to raise his barrier in time, but the impact was so forceful that a sonic boom resonated through the room, shaking the very air around them.


    *BOOM*


    *CRACK*


    Ricky''s nose and mouth bled out, though he forced himself to draw the bow back as the vampire suddenly dodged left only to go into his foot.


    *BAM*


    Ricky, who had been attacking solely with his bow, seized a moment of opportunity and with a swift motion, he drove his foot into Xarus''s chin as the force of the kick sent the vampire''s face snapping to the side.


    "Did you really think-" Xarus chuckled, slowly turning back to Ricky with a sinister grin.


    But before he could fully refocus, Ricky hurled the vial he had stolen from Abraham at him.


    The vial shattered upon impact, releasing a highly potent holy water that caused Xarus to screech in pain


    "AHHHHHHHHH!" Xarus screeched in agony, desperately covering his face as the substance caused his features to slowly melt away.


    Ricky, still coughing up blood, grimaced in pain but steadied himself, drawing his bow once more as he prepared for the next move.


    "JUST F*CKING DIE!" Ricky yelled at Xarus, his voice filled with fury as he unleashed a flurry of arrows.


    One by one, the arrows struck the vampire, each impact driving him back and intensifying the battle''s chaos.


    "ENOUGH!"


    *THOOM*


    A wave of red shot out around Xarus, the arrows breaking and dismantling into nothing as the hateful vampire looked back at Ricky.


    *BAM*


    Ricky''s eyes widened as he saw Xarus''s fist slam into his own jaw, the vampire''s speed having increased dramatically.


    *BAM*


    The force of the punch resonated through Ricky, causing the impact to register painfully in his ears as his jaw dislocated from the sheer force, almost tearing away from his face.


    Skidding across the ground, Ricky struggled to regain his footing but before he could recover, the vampire appeared on the other side and delivered a powerful kick to Ricky''s stomach, sending him flying upwards.


    *BOOM*


    *COUGH*


    Ricky was propelled upward, crashing into the ceiling with a jarring impact as the force expelled all the air from his lungs, leaving him gasping.


    His jaw wobbled with the force of the blow, adding to the disorienting agony as his body peeled off the ceiling and fell flat against the ground.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    "I apologize for my uncouth behavior, but you''re immensely frustrating." Xarus adjusted himself, confiding in Ricky who ground.


    *Crack*


    "I get that a lot." Ricky, cracking his jaw in place, looked up at the vampire regaining his previous deminor of elegance.


    "Focus young Ricky, we can still claim victory!" Alexander, unlike Abraham, stood by Ricky and faced death with a warrior''s honor while tucked into his shirt pocket.


    "You say that, but he''s really kicking my ass." Ricky sighed, trying to get up only to stumble onto the floor as Xarus chuckled.


    "You''re a surprising fellow, I never expected to find such an unpolished jewel here, but it seems a lot of treasures lay within America." Xarus strolled around, Ricky trying to regain his footing as the vampire hovered above him.


    *DINK*


    *SIGH*


    Xarus sighed in irritation at Ricky''s persistent resistance, watching as the human below him coughed up blood.


    With renewed resolve, Xarus struck the barrier around Ricky again, shattering it with force.


    As the barrier crumbled, he saw Ricky pouring every ounce of his remaining energy into his defense, desperately striving to stave off imminent death.


    "Really, what happened to turning me into a ghoul?" Ricky breathlessly coughed up a mouthful of blood, asking Xarus who shrugged at him.


    "You frustrate me on par with my father, what can I say?" Xarus wanted to kill him as of now, flicking the barrier before walking backwards.


    "Any last words before I wipe you from existence itself?" Xarus curiously asked, Ricky letting out a sigh before managing to stand up.


    "One question before I kill you." Ricky boldly proclaimed, pulling out a thimble and a vial from his inventory.


    Xarus scoffed at this arrogance only seen in noble vampires, crossing his arms as the blood turned into thousands of weapons.


    "Did you-"


    *Whoosh*


    Just as Ricky attempted to speak, Xarus took the opportunity to test him as he fired a small sliver of blood, no larger than a toothpick, striking dangerously close to Ricky''s head.


    Xarus watched with a cold nod, assessing his opponent''s reaction, seeing how Ricky didn''t even comprehend it.


    "I apologize." Xarus chuckled, seeing Ricky''s frown and gesturing to him.


    "I wanted to test whether you could reflect magical attacks beyond your comprehension. It seems I was correct in my thoughts. Now, feel free to continue." Xarus spoke and as he did, he began rising into the air, the swirling blood around him forming an ominous aura.


    "Did you kill Rocco?" Ricky demanded, his voice edged with desperation as he tightened his resolve.


    "Oh, humans. Such an unruly herd of sheep," Xarus responded with a boisterous laugh, dismissing Ricky''s question with contempt as his tone dripped with disdain.


    His hands moved gracefully, orchestrating the blood into blades that began to cover the sky, a hauntingly beautiful display.


    Ricky, meanwhile, was fixated on a blue screen visible only to him as his eyes locked with a certain item.


    "I''ve watched your kind build and destroy countless marvels with their own hands. The cycle is endless." Xarus'' words trailed off point, seemingly forgetting Ricky''s question entirely as the swords of pure, shimmering energy danced through the air, their movements both mesmerizing and deadly.


    "It is only right that vampires should rule in this new age." Xarus declared, his voice filled with conviction.


    "My father clings to a world that has passed him by, expecting everything to fit neatly into place alongside him. But¡ª"


    "F*CKING HELL, DID YOU KILL ROCCO!" Ricky''s roar cut through Xarus''s monologue, his frustration boiling over as Xarus sighed, feigning ignorance.


    "Who are you referring to? Ah, yes, Rocco. He was a delightful dessert after my main course. A sweet treat for such an exquisite meal." Xarus finally finished his taunt as the blood fully formed into thousands of deadly weapons, each one a testament to his power and cruelty.


    Xarus had been studying Ricky''s counter very closely however when he observed Ricky deflecting those attacks, it was when he was visibly conscious that he was able to counter them by swinging at the attack.


    "Ha~" Ricky let out a cynical laugh, wiping away the blood and gazing at the spell hovering above him.


    "What is this anyways, why don''t you face me down here like a man or whatever thing you are." Ricky asked, wanting to get him closer to use his last card but Xarus merely shrugged.


    "I want to test my future cards against my father, you''ve frustrated me enough that I''ve decided to wipe you from existence itself." Xarus'' actions were genuine since in the vampire''s mind, he won.


    Ricky''s mind was pushed to its limits, and though the pain was excruciating, the bow''s damage wasn''t enough to finish Xarus off.


    The psychic attacks, while effective, couldn''t deliver a killing blow fast enough because Xarus''s barriers consistently intercepted them.


    Frustrated, Xarus decided to deploy one of his trump cards, the very ones he had been saving for his father as he resolved to use this devastating power to finally destroy Ricky.


    "Now, give into death and be the stepping stone towards my future conquest." Xarus laughed, intoxicated by the surge of power he felt as the levels of strength he had never experienced before.


    The sheer intensity of the power exhilarated Xarus, amplifying his ruthless determination.


    A thousand blood swords swirled around him, each one glowing with a menacing red plasma.


    They encircled Ricky, forming a deadly constellation. As they aligned, they poised to strike from all sides simultaneously, a relentless assault that promised no escape.


    "THOUSAND BLOOD BARRAGE!" Xarus commanded as the weapon thrust themselves towards Ricky at unparalleled speeds.


    Xarus''s face lit up with pure ecstasy at the sight of the lone man standing in his way of complete and utter domination.


    He could already envision himself sitting on his father''s throne, basking in the suffering of those he considered mere blood bags.


    As a thousand weapons descended upon Ricky, he looked up at Xarus with a calm smile and with a resolute grip, he crushed the vial in his hands.


    "F-o-o-l." Xarus commented, but it seemed to be in slow motion as a colorful aurora borealis suddenly burst forth, creating an illusionary landscape of northern lights.


    The thousand blood projectiles hurtled toward Ricky at speeds that defied comprehension.


    Despite his perception of them in slow motion, their velocity remained astonishing as they slammed into his last line of defense, a final, fragile barrier encircling him.


    Each impact was a jarring shockwave, reverberating through his mind as he steeled himself against the relentless onslaught.


    *COUGH*


    *SPLAT*


    However Ricky endured, feeling the impact of the thousand weapons piercing his mind, the strain causing him to vomit another mouthful of blood as he waited.


    Then upon registering the final projectile, he tiredly swiped his bow across his body as Xarus''s eyes slowly widened in shock.


    ''N-No, how can this mere human have something that slows the flow of time?'' Xarus thought, feeling a pang of helplessness as although his mind raced in real time, his body was unable to keep up with the relentless pace, trapped in a state of unyielding inertia.


    "Full counter."


    Suddenly, a blinding flash erupted, engulfing the surroundings in a blinding light that seemed to consume all other colors.


    The brilliance was so intense that it temporarily blinded everyone present and when the light subsided, the air crackled with magic energy, and the thousand blood projectiles were seen shooting back towards Xarus with a ferocity that defied comprehension.


    The projectiles moved with double the speed and force, pushing Xarus''s mind into overdrive as he frantically searched for a way to counter this imminent threat.


    As time resumed its normal flow, the projectiles struck Xarus with a deafening impact as each projectile tore through his flesh yet his gaze remained firm.


    *BOOOM*


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Xarus''s body erupted with every ounce of magical power he could muster.


    A blinding red light surged forth, cutting through the chaos as it battled against the relentless onslaught of the thousand blood swords.


    Then in another second, Xarus'' burning body fell to the ground with a loud thud yet instead of eviscerating into dust, he slowly gazed up at Ricky.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Both of them let out ragged breaths as the ground around them rumbled, and the tomb''s ancient structure began to crack and groan.


    Ricky, barely conscious, bled from his eyes, mouth, nose, and ears, his vision locked on the charred form of Xarus.


    The vampire had been forced to unleash the full extent of his power, exploding outward from within his own body to prevent his spell from tearing him into thousands of pieces.


    Each of them had reached their limit, yet both of them slowly managed to stumble to their feet.


    "Why won''t you JUST DIE!" Xarus yelled out at Ricky, black blood coughed up in the process.


    "BECAUSE YOU KILLED MY FRIEND YOU D*CK!" Ricky yelled back, also coughing up some blood while limping towards the vampire.


    Xarus didn''t remain still; he limped forward, each step signaling new cracks to splinter through the crumbling tomb.


    The abandoned temple began to rumble violently, its structural integrity shattered by the spell Ricky had repelled.


    The damage not only left Xarus in a state of near destruction but also threatened to collapse the very surroundings that had once been a sanctuary.


    However, even when the debris fell from the ceiling and came crashing into the ground, both these men were focused on finishing the fight they started.


    Xarus swung a fist across his body, but Ricky ducked and retaliated by driving his own fist into Xarus''s charred side.


    The force of the blow sent Xarus'' body jerking to the side as Ricky immediately seized the opportunity.


    Ricky followed up with a powerful punch to Xarus''s jaw, causing the vampire to stumble back slightly.


    Trying to capitalize on the opening, Xarus suddenly turned and drove his clawed hand into Ricky''s stomach.


    His sharp nails dug deep into Ricky''s flesh, tearing through muscle and sinew with brutal efficiency which made Ricky let out a pain groan.


    "A human could never defeat a vampire, we are the supreme race-" Xarus hissed at Ricky, trying to grab his heart only for the supposed human to smash his forehead into his nose.


    "Jesus f*cking christ, do you ever shut up!" Ricky yelled, kicking Xarus leg causing him to fall to one knee.


    Ricky seized Xarus''s spiky hair and yanked it downward into his knee as the force of the impact not only fractured Ricky''s own knee but also shattered Xarus''s teeth.


    An arc of black blood shot out of Xarus'' nose as he fell to the ground, feeling dizzy as Ricky pulled out a dagger.


    This was one of the daggers of Tel Megiddo, the very same one he borrowed from Abraham that is said to be able to kill the antichrist.


    "S-Stop-" Xarus covered his face with one hand, outstretching his other but Ricky only sneered.


    *BAM*


    Without hesitation, Ricky delivered a powerful kick to Xarus''s face, the impact jarring the vampire, plunging him back into a hazy state.


    Ricky, reeling from the exhaustion and pain, stumbled over Xarus''s crumpled form.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Xarus screeched out in pain, feeling the sacred dagger plunge in very specific spots all across his body.


    "Young Ricky, what are you doing, cut off his head-"


    "THIS IS FOR EDDY YOU F*CKING BASTARD!" Ricky, who had memorized Edward''s hospital report at this point, started stabbing Xarus in all the places that made Edward paralyzed.


    Edward was shot five times, each bullet striking him with brutal precision.


    In a relentless fury, Ricky drove the dagger into Xarus at each location where Edward had been hit, targeting every wound with cold determination.


    "AHHHHHHHH!" Xarus screeched out, never feeling such pain in his life as Ricky flipped the vampire on his back.


    *CRACK*


    Xarus'' screeches were breathless upon Ricky driving the dagger into his spin, fracturing his vertebrae.


    Grabbing a fistful of Xarus''s spiky hair once more, Ricky yanked him upright as he pressed the dagger firmly against the vampire''s neck, the blade poised to deliver a lethal strike.


    "And this is for Rocco." Ricky hatefully whispered but instead of cutting it in one fell swoop, Ricky started slowly cutting his head off.


    Xarus flailed like a fish out of water, choking on his own black blood as his blood red pupils shrunk.


    Trying to halt Ricky''s advances, the effects of the dagger left him too weak to even overpower Ricky physically as he could only wait for his own death.


    In a final, brutal gesture, Ricky placed his foot on Xarus''s shoulder and yanked back with all his might.


    With a grotesque, wrenching motion, he tore the vampire''s head from his body as the horrifying sound of blood splattering erupted, echoing through the crumbling tomb like a macabre symphony.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    Ricky then turned Xarus to him, wanting this vampire''s last sight to be the face of the man who had killed him.


    Xarus''s eyes, wide with shock and disbelief, locked onto Ricky, the source of his undoing while trying to comprehend how a mere human could have killed him.


    Xarus could do nothing but watch helplessly as his entire body slowly turned into ash, until nothing remained.


    *Dink*


    The sun pendant dropped from where Xarus'' body stood from before, rolling right beneath his feet as Ricky collapsed onto the ground.


    *RUMBLE*


    "Young Ricky, you are victorious-"


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    *SPLAT*


    Mouthfuls of blood were coughed up by Ricky as his eyes were completely bloodshot, the heavy strain from the entire fight putting him into a near death state, barely clinging to life.


    Ricky had strained himself to the point where every movement felt agonizing as his muscles were literally torn with exhaustion, and he gasped for breath, pushing through the searing pain and fatigue that coursed through his body.


    At this point, what kept him alive was his newfound healing ability, which worked to mitigate the rapid deterioration of his being.


    However, while he would eventually heal, it would take time, time he didn''t have at this current moment.


    "Just go." Ricky defeatedly muttered out, gazing at the crumbling ceiling with blood and saliva dripping from the ends of his mouth.


    "NEVER!" Alexander roared in defiance as cracks spiraled all across the ceiling.


    "If you perish, then so shall I." Alexander stood firm on Ricky''s shoulder, showing that he wouldn''t let Ricky perish alone in his glorious moment.


    The surroundings convulsed and he flashed a smile towards Alexander which showed the blood sticking to his pearly white teeth.


    "Well at least I have my trophy." Ricky whispered condescending words as he picked up the amulet.


    Holding it in his shaky hands, he saw the bright orange jewel convulsing with a mysterious power as the chain that held it firm had a dead language encrypted onto it.


    However even when it was over, the grief never faded but twisted the hatred in his heart even more when looking at the pile of dust that became Xarus.


    Deep down, in the layers of his heart, Ricky truly thought he would feel better after killing Xarus after all he had done to him.


    But now, with everything said and done, Ricky felt a profound emptiness.


    Having slain Dracula''s son, he found himself more isolated than ever, his quest for revenge having done little to soothe the grief that enveloped him.


    The victory felt hollow, leaving him alone with his sorrow, without even the solace of vengeance to ease his pain.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    "You did it!" A baffled yell rang out, Ricky side-eyeing the shout to the entrance though instead of a familiar sight of his friends or Abraham, it was the shopkeeper Elijah.


    "A SAVIOR, YOUR TIME HAS NOT COME YET! SAVIOR YOU MUST HELP HIM!" Alexander quickly rejoiced before pointing Elijah to Ricky and even though he didn''t understand Alexander, he limped towards Ricky.


    "Do I know you?" Ricky asked in a tired voice, raising an eyebrow as Elijah stumbled right before him while picking him up.


    "No, I''m just some random cat you saved back there." Elijah said with a chuckle, slinging Ricky''s arm over his shoulder and started to help him out.


    Unlike the other nine men who had been helped by Father Sebastian, Elijah, a shopkeeper and father, gazed back at the commotion with a growing resolve.


    To Ricky, Elijah was just a passing scene, an insignificant moment, but to Elijah, Ricky was someone who he couldn''t help but hold respect for.


    Madden, Dutch, and McGee had terrorized Elijah and his shop for years, yet no one had ever lifted a finger to help him.


    The madame had assisted occasionally, but when it came time to cough up bogus collections, no one had supported him, until Ricky had changed everything.


    To Ricky, it was a simple way to change the club''s ownership and increase revenue by letting everyone in.


    But to Elijah and the other residents of Harlem, it was like night and day.


    The change to Ricky was miniscule, but he had affected the community to such a degree that almost everyone in the neighborhood knew of his deeds.


    Even when he was reduced to nothing more than a mere slave, Ricky had somehow come to his rescue.


    The depth of that gesture weighed heavily on him; he couldn''t simply ignore such an act of salvation.


    He felt a profound sense of obligation, knowing that he had to acknowledge and repay the help that had been so freely given.


    So when he saw Abraham carrying Father Sebastian away from the fight and Ricky standing alone, Elijah sprang forward.


    To his awe, Elijah witnessed Ricky destroy the being that had enslaved him that he never thought possible from human hands.


    In that moment, Elijah saw in Ricky the very thing he desired most, he saw a man who wasn''t afraid to sacrifice himself for his own freedom.


    *COUGH*


    *SPLAT*


    Ricky coughed up another heaping of blood, the toll of the battle evident on his body.


    As the tomb began collapsing behind them, Ricky felt a wave of despair wash over him, believing all hope was lost.


    However, just as he was about to succumb to the overwhelming odds, he noticed three figures appearing in the distance.


    "CHORES GRAB THEM QUICKLY!" Jake yelled as Chores barreled forward towards the two.


    Rushing forward, he scooped them up as if they were mere children and started running back towards the entrance.


    "MOVE TO THE LEFT, THE STRUCTURE WILL COLLAPSE ON THE RIGHT!" Barko yelled as right as they all moved to the left side of the hall, the right side had started to completely cave in.


    They were running against time as Chores, Jake, and Barko all started their last ditch effort to save the man that had saved them all those times before.


    ''God I need a drink.''

 Chapter 49: The Father Cleans Up After The Son

    Chapter 49: The Father Cleans Up After The Son


    "WHERE IS MY SON!" Lucky roared at the weary Abraham, whose legs trembled under the weight of Father Sebastian still slumped over his back.


    "I''m sorry, Lucky I-"


    *CLICK*


    *CLICK*


    *CLICK*


    *CLICK*


    The ominous click of guns echoed around Abraham, their barrels trained on him and Father Sebastian.


    The Luciano men, who once regarded him with complete reverence, now stared at him with cold disdain.


    "I didn''t ask for an apology, Abraham." Lucky lifted his gaze, his fury palpable in the icy stare that pierced through Abraham, chilling him to the core.


    "You promised me you''d keep my son safe, and now you have the balls to look me in the eye and SAY WHAT, YOU''RE SORRY!" Lucky screamed at Abraham, his breath hastening as his worry for Ricky convulsed into a scornful hatred for Abraham.


    "You lied to my face, Abraham and we don''t tolerate lies in these parts." Lucky huffed in anger and heartache, his tone quenched momentarily by the bloodthirst now brewing within the core of his being.


    The methods Lucky envisioned to torture Abraham were so vile, so unspeakably gruesome, that even the briefest glimpse into his thoughts would make a passing soul cry out in terror, forever tainting any pure heart that dared to listen.


    Abraham, overwhelmed by guilt, closed his eyes. He had no words to defend himself, no excuses to offer.


    In the presence of such imminent danger, all he could do was shrink back, his instincts screaming for him to flee.


    *BOOM*


    Just as the entrance began to close, five figures suddenly burst through, kicking up a thick cloud of dust in their wake.


    "RICKY!" Lucky yelled out as the dust settled, revealing Ricky and the four others, shoving Abraham aside and rushing toward his son.


    "I f*cked up-'''' Ricky tried to apologize in his own way, blood seeping from the ends of his mouth as Lucky ran up to him.


    "No, no you didn''t, you did what I asked of you." Lucky pulled Ricky off Chores'' shoulder and wrapped him in a tight embrace.


    "I got him pops, I got that bastard." Ricky whispered out, Lucky''s eyes shrinking until the next words snapped him out of his worry.


    "You got to move now, their backer is dead and they don''t even know." Ricky huffed out, Lucky surprised that Ricky could even think about the family right now when he was in this condition.


    However, Lucky''s face slowly hardened into an icy demeanor as he grappled with the guilt of leaving Ricky alone to endure this.


    "Frank!" Lucky called out to Frank, who hurried over, his face contorting in a grimace at the sight of Ricky, bloodied and battered.


    "Go get me an ambulance and watch over Slick." Lucky''s tone showed no objection, though Frank felt a slight wave of gratitude.


    He understood that he had been chosen for this task precisely because of the guilt he felt whenever he was away from Eddy.


    "Wait, before I go." Ricky pushed himself away from Lucky, stumbling toward Abraham, who had risen to his feet with a look of deep guilt.


    "Listen kid-"


    *BAM*


    Ricky didn''t wait for Abraham to finish his sentence; his knuckles drove into Abraham''s jaw with a fierce, explosive impact.


    *Thump*


    Abraham''s head jerked to the side, his eyes rolling back as he crumpled to the ground, knocked out cold while Ricky stood over him, his expression weary and resigned.


    "That''s for leaving me to take care of your mess." Ricky pointed his middle finger at Abraham, a final, defiant gesture, while Lucky smirked briefly before rushing forward as he noticed Ricky starting to collapse.


    "Frank." Lucky handed Ricky over to Frank, watching silently as his father walked to the center of the family gathering.


    With every step Lucky took toward the heart of the Luciano Family, his fatherly demeanor seemed to shed away, revealing a steel-clad expression that spoke of a role forged not from luck but from unwavering resolve.


    "Today is the day boys, today is the day!" Lucky roared, his voice echoing with fierce determination.


    "But don''t get it twisted, this aint'' business, this ain''t something we''re merely doing to fill our greed, but to avenge our brothers!" Lucky gripped his fist tightly, channeling the moral weight of his actions and the gravity of the moment.


    "We are avenging our friends, our cousins, and our brothers who were taken by the hands of the jewish mob!" Lucky yelled, cheers spiraling out from his men as he raised his gun high into the air.


    "Today, we wipe the Jewish mob off the map for good and make them pay for every slight, every insult, and every ounce of trouble they''ve caused us." Lucky''s words gradually eroded the fear within his men, transforming it into a pure, unyielding hatred and bloodthirst that rivaled his own.


    "This is our moment to show them that there is no mercy, no retreat, and no forgiveness. We''re going to send a message so clear and so brutal that they''ll remember it for generations. Stand tall, hold your heads high, and let''s show them what it means to cross the Luciano family. Now, let''s get this done!"


    The entire Luciano family raised their guns in a unified, bloodthirsty cheer, the air thick with their savage excitement.


    Then Ricky''s eyes shut, setting off a domino effect that would eventually cause all of Manhattan to fall under Luciano''s domain.


    While Ricky slept peacefully, Manhattan did not.


    Gunshots rang out throughout the Jewish mobs'' territory, and bullets littered the streets as the area was transformed into a complete warzone, with even the eager Dewey, the man dead set on taking Lucky down, staying far away from the chaos.


    Jewish gangsters were mercilessly slaughtered under Lucky''s bloodthirst, and anyone who stood with them met a similar, brutal end.


    Blood stained Manhattan''s streets as the criminal underworld began to shift irrevocably towards the dominance of the Luciano family.


    However, this victory came with its own toll.


    The sudden attack and the loss of key figures within the Jewish mob left a significant void, though not as extensive as the devastation wrought upon the Five Points gang.


    Both sides suffered heavy losses, but the Luciano family''s numbers surged in contrast to the diminished Jewish mob, thanks to Lucky''s recent recruitment drive.


    At the main hideout of the Jewish mob, the scene was one of unrelenting carnage as bodies piled up in grotesque heaps, a grim testament to the travesty that Lucky had inflicted upon them.


    "P-Please." Pep pleaded from a seated chair, his voice trembling with desperation.


    His closest comrades had been torn apart in excruciating ways, and he was forced to watch the horrific spectacle unfold before him.


    Pep was sobbing uncontrollably, his tears mingling with his despair all the while Lucky stood nearby.


    His expression impassive and unreadable, casually sipping from a glass of wine as he observed the scene with cold detachment.


    "Hey Meyer, what did Pep say to you when you came here for peace?" Lucky asked, swirling the wine in his hand with a casual air, as Meyer meticulously cleaned his hands beside the torture equipment.


    "He asked if I ''knew the power he held''." Meyer informed Lucky of the situation, prompting Lucky to down the last of the wine in his glass before tossing it aside with a decisive clink.


    "Do you know where you went wrong, Pep?" Lucky asked, waltzing over to him before looking down at the sniffling shell of a man.


    "You thought of borrowed power as your own, when in reality, you were nothing but a simple small man having the strings above him tugged to another whims." Lucky then gripped Pep''s collar, yanking him forward as the man flinched in fear.


    "But you messed up Pep, you came for my family, and I can''t allow you to walk out of here without being in twelve separate containers." Lucky''s eyes were livid, his anger unable to be clenched by simply shooting him.


    "Take him apart, and Meyer, do it slowly." Lucky walked out of the fallen headquarters, his dress shoes clacking sharply against the floor, he issued an irrefutable order to Meyer.


    With a heavy heart that was already burdened by killing many of his childhood friends, he grabbed a carving knife and turned toward Pep.


    This was Lucky''s way of making a clear choice between loyalty and faith, as he had made it evident that one had to be sacrificed.


    Meyer had made his choice, and it was clear which side he had aligned himself with.


    "M-Meyer, you know me! We go way back!" Pep attempted to back away but slipped on a pool of blood, his efforts to retreat thwarted as Meyer shook his head, a mix of pity and resignation in his expression.


    "You made your bed Pep, now you got to sleep in it, and now I''ve come for you head." Meyer approached with deliberate steps, raising the knife. Pep, his fear palpable, held up his hand in a desperate, futile gesture of surrender.


    "Meyer wa-AHHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    Meanwhile in the far reaches of Transylvania,


    Perched atop a rugged cliff, a castle is a grand and imposing structure overlooking the surrounding countryside.


    Its exterior is a blend of Gothic and medieval architecture, with towering spires, crenelated walls, and forbidding stone battlements.


    Inside, the castle is a maze of dimly lit corridors, vaulted ceilings, and shadowy chambers.


    The walls are adorned with ancient tapestries depicting scenes of battle and conquest, while suits of armor stand guard in alcoves along the passageways.


    The main hall is a vast, echoing chamber, dominated by a massive stone fireplace and long, tall, arched windows let in scant rays of light, casting eerie shadows across the room.


    A throne, built to hold a giant, had a small figure adorning it, his eyes slowly raising open to reveal his blood red pupil.


    This mighty and terrifying figure, the very same that has left numerous tragedy after numerous tragedy in the shadows of human history, was the figure known to all but directly to some as Dracula.


    *Crack*


    Dracula''s rage surged, unable to even contain the anger after feeling his connection with his son Xarus snap knowing that he had left this world.


    However it wasn''t sadness, but disgust at the mere thought that his own blood, his legacy, actually fell at the hands of a being that he assumed to be beneath him, since all were beneath him.


    "This debt shall not go unpaid."


    Next Day,


    *BAM*


    "Lucky, do you want to start a war!" Gambino slammed his fist on the table in frustration, while Lucky remained calm, leisurely sipping his wine.


    "I don''t know what you;re-" Lucky played the fool, taunting the little man before him in his own way.


    *CRASH*


    "DON''T BULLSH*T ME LUCKY, WHY HAVEN''T YOU MOVED YOUR MEN FROM OUR TERRITORY" Carlo screeched, pointing furiously at Lucky as the table, thrown aside in a fit of rage, left Lucky without a place to set his cup.


    "My territory." Lucky corrected the situation with a composed tone, while Carlo looked on, baffled and struggling to process the calm in the midst of his fury.


    "What are you on Lucky-"


    "It''s my territory now, I cleaned up the jewish mob all on my own, so I will be reaping the benefits." Lucky informed Carlo who scoffed at these words.


    "You can''t do that-"


    "OH, I CAN''T!" Lucky stood up abruptly, causing Carlo to flinch and take a few steps back, startled by the sudden intensity of his outburst.


    "WHEN I CAME TO YOU, MAN TO MAN, YOU LOOKED ME RIGHT IN THE EYE AND TOLD ME GO F*CK MYSELF CARLO!" Lucky yelled, and Carlo''s neck instinctively shrank, his eyes wide with shock as he had never witnessed Lucky raise his voice before, and the unexpected outburst left him visibly shaken.


    "This was between the Luciano family and the jewish mob, the Magano family chose to simply watch. So in the end, they can watch as I absorb the entirety of the Jewish mob territory and assets." Lucky turned away, and Carlo immediately began to panic, his composure unraveling as he struggled to regain control.


    "Y-You can''t-"


    "You think I don''t know you went behind Vinny''s back to meet me here in the first place?" Lucky paused, casting a sharp side-eye at Carlo, who went pale under the weight of his gaze.


    "Oh Carlo, I knew from the start that you met me without permission, however, I wanted to hear you speak on ''behalf'' of Vinny so I could move in with relative ease." Lucky scoffed, a smirk playing on his lips as he revealed that he had manipulated Carlo''s own hatred against him.


    With that, he turned and walked toward the door, leaving Carlo to grapple with the realization.


    "And one more thing." Lucky paused at the door and turned to face a completely defeated Carlo, his gaze steady and unyielding.


    "I heard a birdy tell me that Vinny''s gonna have a real long talk with you." Lucky snickered as he watched Carlo collapse to the floor, landing on his ass in a pitiful display of defeat, before stepping out the door.


    Meanwhile at the hospital,


    "No wonder you haven''t left." Ricky laughed, enjoying his pudding as he gestured toward his side, where Eddy stood wide awake, though lost in thought as he stared out the window.


    Eddy''s hollow eyes reflected the birds flying freely in the sky, their carefree movements a stark contrast to the turmoil around him.


    "Beautiful dolls dressed up as nurses and free pudding, Eddy this is heaven." Ricky boasted with a wide grin.


    "....."


    However, Eddy only continued to stare lifelessly out the window, the smile on Ricky''s face stagnating before he turned his attention to his pudding.


    In truth, Ricky was only staying in this room to cheer up Eddy.


    When Eddy was hospitalized, he gained consciousness, but upon waking up, he was just different.


    Eddy felt it almost immediately, the complete lack of function in his legs and despite efforts from Frank, the doctors, and Ricky to get him to talk.


    Eddy remained stubbornly silent, keeping his mouth shut and his hollow eyes glued towards the window.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    "Aye Slick, it''s me." Lucky opened the door and Ricky smiled while finishing the cup of pudding.


    "Can we talk for a second?" Lucky walked in as Ricky turned to the left to see Eddy not even paying attention though when he turned back, Lucky gestured him outside as Ricky nodded.


    "Sure."


    15 minutes later,


    *Sigh*


    "I should''ve known you''d pull something like that." Lucky let out a defeated sigh, pushing Ricky in a wheelchair as the latter had a smug smile.


    "What? I was really hurt back there-"


    "Yeah, yeah, I get the spiel, save it for the suckers alright." Lucky rolled his eyes, prompting Ricky to chuckle and with a smirk, Lucky then wheeled him over to a nearby bench.


    "Do you ever wonder why I call you Slick instead of Ricky?" Lucky suddenly asked, causing Ricky to raise an eyebrow in curiosity before shrugging nonchalantly.


    "Isn''t it because you gave me the name?" Ricky asked, leaning over the side of his chair to watch as Lucky adjusted his suit before taking a seat.


    "It''s because I respect you. I respect what you did at such a young age like any mobster in the family." Lucky honestly replied only for Ricky to have a weird inkling.


    ''Are we about to have a heart to heart-''


    "But I-........I haven''t been respecting you like I should." Lucky leaned forward, causing Ricky to recoil with a puzzled expression.


    "When I was little my pops, your grandpa, was too proud to ask for money when starting up his gang back in the day, so instead my ma was given money in secret by her cousin, Rotolo." Lucky leaned back, his gaze shifting upwards as he stared into the sky.


    "I never understood why my father was so stubborn and it always ate me up when I was a youngster, that is, until I adopted you." Lucky glanced over at Ricky, who seemed uneasy and unaccustomed to the situation.


    "Oh will you stop acting like a sissy and humor me for a second." Lucky noticed Ricky''s expression and, in response, contorted his face into an ugly grimace with Ricky, feeling the weight of the moment, surrendered with a resigned sigh.


    *Ahem*


    "When I first dragged you into my own mess, I didn''t want a kid like you following my footsteps without guidance since I just saw too much of myself in you." Lucky sighed as to this day, he still blames himself for giving Ricky this life.


    "It''s why when I saw you covered in those rotten bastard''s blood did I realize that I''d become my father, but I wanted to be better than him." Lucky turned his entire body toward Ricky, slicking his hair back with a decisive motion.


    "But I didn''t realize I was becoming like my father until we had that fight over the Jewish mob," Lucky said, his tone heavy with reflection.


    "It was then that I understood why he was so stubborn back then, because he didn''t want to involve the people he cared about and risk hurting them." Lucky sighed heavily, feeling the irony of wanting to be nothing like his father by becoming exactly like him.


    "I don''t want to be too prideful and too stubborn like my father, I know I''m hard on ya but that''s only because I really love ya kid." Lucky spoke words he would say to Ricky only once in his life, his own expression reflecting surprise at the gravity of the moment.


    "And although I''ve said that you''d be part of the gang, you were right, I''ve been purposely keeping you at an arm''s length with the inner workings of the gang but after that entire fiasco, I want to do right by you and start teaching you the ropes, for real this time." Lucky finally got to the point, and Ricky nodded slightly, acknowledging the weight of Lucky''s revelation.


    It was true that Ricky had noticed how Lucky kept him at a distance from the Luciano family, only involving him in their affairs when it was absolutely necessary.


    This behavior stemmed from Lucky''s struggle to let go of the image of Ricky as a child, a sentiment many parents feel when they see their children growing up too quickly.


    "But if I''m being honest with you, from now on, you got to meet me halfway." Lucky placed a hand on the wheelchair and squeezed.


    "That was too close Ricky, when you fell into my arms covered in your own blood, my heart sank." Lucky thumped his heart, a gesture of deep emotion, while Ricky looked away for a moment, grappling with the weight of the conversation.


    "Alright, I''ll tell you everything that went down that day." Ricky spoke, and Lucky listened intently, his focus unwavering.


    Ricky detailed everything, starting from the moment he first met Abraham, through the events leading up to the confrontation with Xarus, and culminating in his ultimate defeat.


    "Wow." Lucky shook his head in shock, unable to believe what he was hearing.


    Despite the incredulity of Ricky''s story, Lucky found himself believing it as the supernatural didn''t seem so far-fetched, especially not after witnessing Ricky''s powers firsthand.


    "And what about that pendant?" Lucky asked Ricky for more details, but Ricky waved his hand dismissively, indicating he wasn''t ready to discuss the personal storage.


    "Don''t worry, I''ve hid it in a place that not even a bomb could get into." Ricky assured Lucky with a reassuring nod, then took another deep breath, preparing for what was to come next.


    "So, what do we do now?" Ricky asked, uncertain about the next steps, but Lucky waved his hand dismissively, signaling that he had it under control.


    "We''re going to get a favor from that Father Sebastion." Lucky said with a menacing smile, and Ricky''s eyes widened in response, filled with both surprise and apprehension.


    "Don''t tell me you got him confined-"


    "Are you crazy? Of course not." Lucky waved his hand since although Father Sebasiton was a part of it, he was still a part of the church.


    "But Abraham on the other hand." Lucky eluded to the fact, making RIcky let out a burst of explosive laughter.


    "So is that why you came to me and asked? Because Abraham wasn''t giving you squat?" Ricky asked for clarification, but Lucky surprisingly shook his head.


    "If I wanted to hear him talk, then I wouldn''t have put a gag over his mouth while I beat the living sh*t out of him." Lucky laughed in a twisted, unsettling manner, and Ricky, caught up in the moment, joined in with a chuckle.


    "So, are we going to wait for father Sebastian to come to one of us or?" Ricky asked as Lucky smirked as he stood up.


    "Not me kid, but you." Lucky then walked away, leaving Ricky to look around in surprise as he saw Lucky had locked his chair in place before breaking it with a decisive motion.


    "Wait, where are you going-"


    "I got to go get things ready for when you start settling into Luciano family matters." Lucky laughed, realizing Ricky was in a completely compromised position.


    Despite being in a wheelchair, Ricky was still in his medical garment, and stark naked underneath as this vulnerability was precisely why Lucky had taken him all the way here.


    "Dammit pops, POPS!"


    45 minutes later,


    *Whistle Sounds*


    "Can it!" Ricky yelled in frustration as he heard someone catcall him while walking back into his room, only to find Father Sebastion standing next to Eddy, who was in tears.


    "Father, why did god do this to me?" Eddy wept in Father Sebastian''s arms, while Ricky stood frozen, his shock and helplessness evident in his stillness.


    "Child, god has a plan for us all and you''ll soon know your role." Father Sebastian smiled widely as Ricky''s collar was suddenly yanked back out the door, pulling him away from the scene.


    "What the-"


    "Slick I don''t ever ask for much, but give Eddy his moment with Father Sebastian, please I''m begging ya." Frank, although aggressive in his approach, had a pleading expression as Ricky sighed.


    "Can you atleast give me some pants?"


    1 hour later,


    "I apologize for making you wait child." Father Sebastion opened the door and glanced at Ricky, who was now wearing pants but shamelessly reading a nudy magazine.


    Father Sebastion froze, his expression turning to a frown as he made a cross gesture on his chest.


    "Oh father, this is uhhhhhh-....a sports magazine?" Ricky honestly didn''t have anything on the fly and Father Sebastion shook his head.


    "Child I must ask first, forgive my worry, but the amulet?" Father Sebastion needed to know first and foremost as Ricky nodded.


    "Destroyed." Ricky lied since it was sitting patiently in his vault for a rainy day.


    "Phew~" Father Sebastian let out a relieved sigh, as if a weight had been lifted from his heart, and he didn''t think to question Ricky''s abrupt departure.


    "May we converse for a second?" Father Sebastian then asked Ricky a question, prompting Ricky to sigh before nodding his head in agreement.


    Instead of leading him outside, Father Sebastian guided him to the church inside the hospital, where they took a seat in the front row, overlooking the cross.


    "Such a noble sole Jesus was-"


    "Alright let''s just cut to the chase, you came here because you feel guilty about leaving me there to die all alone with your problem." Ricky stopped Father Sebastian, making it clear he didn''t want to hear any spiel about God or Jesus.


    "Child, I would never-" Father Sebastion was appalled until Ricky snapped his fingers.


    *Snap*


    *Snap*


    "Oh you''re right, I mean Abraham." Ricky snapped his fingers, patting Father Sebastian on the shoulder in a gesture of forgiveness.


    However, his face betrayed him, clearly still tinged with resentment.


    "You know he looked me dead in the eyes, just after I just saved you both, and said he was sorry before leaving me with the son of f*cking Dracula." Ricky didn''t hold back his distaste, making his feelings clear, while Father Sebastian closed his eyes, bracing himself for the confrontation.


    "Abraham can be rough around the edges-"


    "Rough? FATHER, HE LEFT ME TO DIE!" Ricky stood up and yelled in frustration, the fact that Father Sebastian kept avoiding the topic pushing him to the brink.


    "I know, child." Father Sevastion lowered his head, unable to meet Ricky''s gaze, the weight of his guilt pressing down on him like a heavy burden.


    Despite Ricky being a clear fraud, Father Sebastion still believed him to be a child sent by God to help the Vatican.


    The problem he now faced was that Abraham might have already burned the bridge between them before it even had a chance to form.


    "I know you have ill will towards me and that is understandable, but please do not blame the church and I ask you to not think any less of God for the actions of Abraham." Father Sebastian spoke with a tone of apology, his words heavy with regret.


    Ricky sighed, knowing that even if he wanted nothing to do with the church, it would always be a part of his life as long as he remained within the Luciano family.


    However, Lucky had drilled into Ricky the importance of squeezing every last cent out of anyone who owed him, and Ricky intended to get his full worth out of this holy man.


    "To be honest Father, when I originally saw that cross necklace stranded on the ground, I thought nothing of it." Ricky suddenly started bullsh*ting as Father Sebastion focused intently on his words.


    "However when I picked it up, I felt that warm feeling I received whenever I stepped foot into my family''s chapel. Yet now when I''m here, my heart grows cold." Ricky didn''t even know where he was going with this but nevertheless continued.


    "Honestly, I really don''t know what to think about the church after all of this, that very same church which I used to hold most dear now seems so distant." Ricky drove the point home as he stood, walking around the room with deliberate steps, before pausing to dramatically touch the large cross before them.


    "What can I do to make it right?" Father Sebastion spoke, making Ricky turn away to hide his enormous grin before reigning it in, and finally turning around.


    "Do you know what they call people like me?" Ricky asked Father Sebastion, who raised an eyebrow.


    "What do you mean-"


    "A freak."


    *Dink*


    Father Sebastian reached out toward Ricky, but his hand stopped short, meeting an invisible barrier as it reminded him of the protective shield he had seen Ricky conjure earlier.


    "Your power?" Father Sebastian understood and quietly asked his question and Ricky responded with a nod, letting down the barrier as he did so.


    "They call us things like devils, mutants, and everything in between." Ricky finally arrived at the point that Lucky had indirectly alluded to earlier.


    Lucky had addressed this issue before, knowing that people who couldn''t understand his powers might attribute them to the devil.


    However, with this opportunity now presenting itself, he knew that Ricky had to take advantage of it to establish ties with the church.


    "Are there more chosen people like yourself? Is this true?" Father Sebastian, surprisingly, asked while inherently assuming they were all chosen by God.


    Father Sebastion had spent his whole life within the church, learning of its doctrines and how faith can be used to hold great power.


    However, the priest was very ignorant to matters outside the supernatural world and yet, once again, Ricky chose not to clear up this misunderstanding.


    "There are in fact, that big guy you met earlier along with that talking dog are both people with powers like mine." Ricky informed Father Sebastion who looked shocked.


    "I see." Father Sebastion started pacing back and forth with great contemplation.


    Father Sebastian''s misunderstanding had spiraled out of control ever since he received that holy necklace, and it had only grown stronger with time.


    "I must take this to the inner circle of the Vatican." Father Sebastion needed to inquire with the others of the Vatican however even if it was just this, it was enough for Ricky who smiled.


    "However, even still, those disgraceful actions of Abraham should not be overlooked." Father Sebastion didn''t shy away from his responsibility as he reached in his cloak and Ricky''s eyes widened.


    "Father-"


    "No child, you more than earned this token." Father Sebastion handed that jewel embedded cross to Ricky who showed a disbelieving smile.


    Although Ricky had wanted the cross, he had thought it would take some negotiation on his part and yet, here it was in his hand, practically obtained for nothing.


    "With this, wherever you go, you are a friend of the Vatican." Father Sebastion still wanted to repair the damage that might have been done to his image of the church and although it was going over the top, he believed Ricky was worth it.


    "But child, for people who walk down the righteous path of heartache, we must not only be strong but also must learn to forgive." Father Sebastion walked forward, placing a hand on his shoulder as Ricky sighed but nodded his head.


    "Fine, I''ll tell my pops to let go of Abraham but if you expect him to be-"


    "Trust me, from knowing Abraham even the angel above wouldn''t be against him getting beaten up every now and again." Father Sebastion joked and Ricky became surprised but started laughing.


    "But let''s keep this between you, me, and the lord above." Father Sebastion chuckled, winking at Ricky while walking towards the door as Ricky continued to laugh.


    "See ya later Father." Ricky waved as Father Sebastion side-eyed him with a smile.


    "I shall see you later, Ricky Luciano."


    Ricky watched as Father Sebastian walked away, his footsteps echoing in the silence before he arrived back at the door of his room and turned to Frank, and ordered him to release Abraham.


    Initially weirded out by the request, Frank''s attention was grabbed by the necklace, prompting him to rush off to inform Lucky, leaving Ricky standing at the foot of the door.


    Glancing through the window, Ricky saw Eddy''s hollow eyes gazing out, but as he moved to push through the door, he hesitated.


    *Sigh*


    "Dammit." Ricky retracted his hand since although he cared for Eddy, he honestly didn''t know what to do which caused his instinct to back away to form.


    "Ricky!" A sudden shout sounded on the side as Ricky turned to see a crying Maria.


    "Maria-" Ricky asked in confusion until she jumped into his arms while taking him into a kiss.


    "When I said I needed space, I didn''t mean for you to wind up in the hospital." Maria worriedly broke the kiss as she caressed his sharp jawline.


    "Ah, your touch made all the pain go away~" Ricky joked, taking Maria''s hand and kissing her palm as she laughed in between her tears before hugging him.


    "So are you still mad at me?" Ricky whispered soothingly as Maria sank into his embrace, burying her tear-streaked face against his chest as her mascara ran, staining his shirt, and sought comfort in his arms.


    "I''m just-...so much is-....and your always-" Maria tried to say what was on her mind yet the words didn''t seem to come out right as Ricky petted her hair.


    "Maria." Ricky moved her face up as she melted into his touch.


    "I love you." Ricky said the words, though deep down, he wasn''t sure if he truly meant them but felt it was the right moment to tell her this, hoping it might lead to something more intimate.


    *Sniff*


    "I love you too."


    Ricky and Maria had a much-needed talk, but their moment was interrupted when Profaci pried Maria from his grasp.


    Ricky reluctantly let go of her, feeling the loss of her presence keenly but eventually, he made his way back to the room and stopped at the door, but this time he walked in.


    "Hey Eddy." Ricky forced a smile but Eddy continued to look out the window.


    Ricky sighed but knew it would take some time, walking up to bed willingly to wait as long as needed and placed a hand on his shoulder.


    "Whenever you want to talk, all you gotta do is ask, alright?" Ricky finally let down his smile for once and showed a serious expression.


    *Sniff*


    Eddy looked like he was on the verge of breaking down, but he tried to keep it together for the sake of his appearance.


    He nodded faintly as Ricky patted his shoulder a couple more times before hopping onto the bed next to him.


    Meanwhile At The Brooklyn Port,


    "I can''t believe you gave the kid my cross." Abraham let out a pain gruff as he held an ice pack to his busted lip.


    It was ironic, though, because Abraham''s entire face was a canvas of bruises, courtesy of Lucky.


    Even after Lucky had beaten the life out of him, it wasn''t over and just when Abraham thought the worst had passed, Lucky came back and landed a brutal punch right in his mouth after hearing Ricky''s story.


    That blow seemed to hurt more than all the others combined.


    Through it all, Abraham didn''t even wince; he''d faced worse and only when he saw Father Sebastian did he finally let out a sigh of relief.


    "You brought that child, who mind you was sent by the heavens, then left him there to die when the fight got hard-" Father Sebastion scolded the irresponsible man-child before him.


    "I SAVED YOU-"


    "Well, I didn''t ask you to." Father Sebastian shook his head as they took their seats, a look of disappointment etched on his face.


    Abraham, meanwhile, wore a deep frown, the weight of his situation heavy on his shoulders.


    "And can you cut that crap about him being sent from the heavens cause if he''s an angel, I''m jesus chr-OW!" Abraham scoffed, but Father Sebastian quickly jabbed his bruised side as Abraham recoiled in pain, the sudden pain making him wince and shift to the side.


    "What have I told you about joking with heavenly figures?" Father Sebastian scrunched his eyebrows in disapproval, while Abraham merely rolled his eyes, his frustration evident.


    "However that child looked oddly familiar, I could''ve sworn I''ve seen him before." FFather Sebastian rubbed his chin thoughtfully, causing a look of surprise to cross Abraham''s face.


    "You too?" Abraham hadn''t been paying attention when Father Sebastian initially brought it up, but now that he wasn''t alone, their eyes met and they exchanged a glance of mutual understanding.


    "Weird."


    Meanwhile in the heart of Harlem,


    *SIGH*


    Elijah let out a weary sigh as he swept up the countless shards of his door, while his son held the dustpan, quietly assisting in the clean-up.


    "Elijah Bradley was it?" A voice suddenly spoke up, and Elijah turned his head to see Lucky walking into the shop, with the other family members waiting patiently outside.


    "Y-Yes sir." Elijah immediately ducked his head, his back drenched in cold sweat, as he pulled his son towards him and forced him to bow his head as well at this foreboding person.


    "Relax, I ain''t gonna do nothing to the man who helped my son." Lucky held up his hand before reaching into his coat, causing Elijah to shut his eyes tightly in fear.


    "Are you afraid of money or something?" Lucky chuckled, Elijah opening his confused eyes to a wad of cash.


    "T-This is-"


    "A gift of 5000, hush money." Lucky slipped a wad of money into Elijah''s front shirt pocket.


    Elijah let out a cold breath of air, stunned, as he realized it was the largest sum of money he had ever seen.


    "O-Oh S-Sir, I''m unworthy of such a grand gift-"


    "As a father, can you understand how worthy you could be for what you did that day for me?" Lucky suddenly asked, his gaze fixed on the child held close to him.


    The question made Elijah fall silent, his mouth clamping shut as he awaited a response.


    "Besides, it wasn''t me but my boy who wanted me to reward you." Lucky held up a hand as he strolled out of the shop.


    Their interaction was brief but carried an unspoken understanding as although they were two different people from two different worlds, they were both still fathers to sons.


    "Who was that pa?" The kid looked up in confusion as Elijah''s shaky hands held the wad of money.


    "A very powerful man Isaiah and a very generous one at that." Elijah bent down and pulled him into a hug as Isiah looked at the expensive car driving away.


    ''Wow.''

 Chapter 50: Foreboding Dream

    Chapter 50: Foreboding Dream


    Two days later,


    In the throne room, where the walls were adorned with serene and breathtaking details, all eyes were inevitably drawn to the magnificent golden throne that reigned supreme over the splendor around it.


    On this throne sat a beautiful woman, leaning on her hand as she gazed calmly at a man bleeding out on the luxurious floor beneath her feet.


    "You will never win-AHHHHHH!" The man stubbornly uttered a few words before a dagger suddenly plunged into his side, twisting deeper as a pained screech tore from his lips.


    "Oh, must you torture him when we''re conversing?" The woman asked, though if one listened closely, they would catch the subtle hint of annoyance in her tone.


    "I apologize, but chivalry makes me want to vomit." A man sneered as he stepped over his victim as a pool of blood started spreading all around the man.


    "Where is the blade-" The woman quickly got to the point, raising her gaze while the man raised a smile.


    "I''ve already cast it away." The man snickered with a lasting defiance, seeing first hand the woman''s face contort in rage as she stood up.


    "Where am I?" Ricky suddenly spoke up, his words completely out of place as he looked around in confusion, standing awkwardly to the side of the very dramatic scene.


    *WHISTLE*


    "Hello beautiful~" Ricky let out a low whistle as he watched the woman angrily descend the stairs.


    "If you wanted my attention, a hello would''ve been enough however now that you''re here-huh?" Ricky immediately started to put on the moves, but as he stepped forward, he seemed to pass right through the woman, as if she were merely an illusion.


    "ARCK!" The man, slowly bleeding out, was suddenly lifted up by a black mist as the woman angrily held him up.


    "Tell me, where is the blade-" The woman once again asked though the man simply smiled at her.


    "I shall not." The man spit at the woman''s face as she froze for a moment before slowly wiping the blood-filled spit from her cheek.


    *BAM*


    Pushing her hands forward, magic power manifested without even the slightest incantation, sending him to the backside wall before he tumbled weakly to the ground.


    "You say I won''t win but unlike you, a mere mortal who is confined by their own mortality, I can wait for as long as it takes to take what''s rightfully mine." The woman slowly strutted forward, her hips swaying with each step, and Ricky couldn''t help but admire the graceful, hypnotic movement.


    ''That''s the type of ass one goes to war for.'' Ricky nodded, slightly annoyed by the realization that he was trapped in a lucid dream, unable to change a thing.


    "Although my life will fade here today, my blood will still flow and be a raging river that floods and foils all your treacherous plans." The man''s conviction showed forth as the woman scoffed.


    "Then I guess I shall give your little descendents a present." The woman then closed her eyes, and the man began screeching in pain before his head fell lifelessly to the ground.


    In his final moments, the man didn''t gaze at the woman but at Ricky as he glanced around, realizing the man''s dying eyes were fixed on him.


    "You must prevail, you must find the ebony-"


    *GASP*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Ricky sat up, looking around in confusion, before realizing he was drenched in sweat and upon putting a hand on his forehead, he felt the cold dampness.


    As he patted himself down, the cross gifted to him by Father Sebastian swung on his neck as he shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts.


    After receiving it, Lucky had grown paranoid, constantly worrying that Ricky might lose it as the tension became so intense that Ricky started wearing it around his neck just to put the mobster at ease.


    ''What the f*ck.'' Ricky let out a sigh, falling back onto his bed while still huffing out breathes.


    Ricky wasn''t able to go back to sleep that night, trying to shrug it off as a mere bad dream but simply laid on his bed while not being able to forget the details of it for the life of him.


    Morning came yet Ricky was wide awake, rubbing his eyes he put on his clothes before staring at the mirror.


    As he blinked, the image of a knight appeared before him, and with his next blink, it vanished just as quickly, causing him to flinch in surprise.


    ''Huh-''


    "Young Ricky, today we will change your formal training to center around your bowmanship." Alexander informed, Ricky dazedly looking to the side before slowly nodding.


    Alexander had given him a break to heal from his wounds. However, now that he was seemingly perfectly healed, Alexander decided to strike while the flames of his spirit were still ignited.


    "Then what about the other weapons-"


    "You will still learn other weapons since a true warrior is proficient in multiple weapons." Alexander puffed out his chest with a proud air as Chester pulled out the deck of cards.


    With Chester''s sole duty being using his genjutsu to keep Rockefellar''s suggestions prominent in his mind, he didn''t have much to do anymore.


    Although Ricky had only just started utilizing him, Chester was sidelined once again which made him slightly lonely.


    Alexander had seen this in his friend which is why he always insisted on playing card games to help Chester and although the crow knew it, he still didn''t say anything since he quite enjoyed their games.


    "Well, I''m off." Ricky waved as Alexander waved before turning to Chester and rubbing his paws together.


    "Now, let us indulge in the war of go fish."


    "Nuh uh!" Isabella suddenly said to Ricky right as he was about to leave.


    "Isabella-"


    "You''re already so skinny and now you want to leave without breakfast, Slick, do you hate me?" Isabella started being slightly over dramatic as Ricky sighed.


    "But I-"


    "My poor heart~" Isabella stumbled before catching herself as Ricky gave her a plain expression.


    Isabella, a seventy-three-year-old woman, served as the personal maid and cook for Ricky and Lucky.


    She had emigrated from Sicily at the age of fifty-nine, having worked tirelessly to send her entire family to America before her.


    Of her seven children, three were part of the Luciano family, and as a gesture of loyalty, Lucky arranged for Isabella to be brought over.


    Despite this, Isabella, a stubborn Italian woman, refused to accept charity and instead, she chose to work as their maid, determined to repay the perceived debt she felt she owed.


    *Sigh*


    "Fine." Ricky shook his head as he walked toward his breakfast, while Isabella perked up as if nothing had happened, casually heading toward the dishes.


    Ricky began eating the breakfast laid out before him just as the door opened and Jake walked in.


    "Aye, what''s taking so long, didn''t you say we''d talk about the club-"


    *Snap*


    *Snap*


    "Even your friend, skinny, come and eat!" Isabella demanded, and Jake, caught off guard, realized he had already sunk into a quicksand of awkwardness.


    "No I-"


    5 minutes later,


    Soon, Ricky, Jake, Chores, and Barko were all eating as the three men sat at the dinner table, while Barko contentedly ate from a plate on the floor.


    "Fill me in on what''s been happening." Ricky wiped his mouth while gesturing to Jake who had Isabella put more servings onto his plate.


    "Thank you, Isabella." Chores thanked her politely, and she responded with a warm smile, patting his broad shoulders before playfully pinching his cheek.


    "You''re welcome, such a nice boy." Isabella complimented before ruffling Barko''s hair and walking back to the kitchen.


    "Well after your pops torched the entire jewish mafia to the ground and took over their operations, me and my brother Meyer had been dealing with the jewish community in Manhattan." Jake let out a tired sigh, and Ricky couldn''t help but notice the dark circles under his eyes.


    "We already assured them of their safety, however, since we''re the only connection they might have to the Lucaino family, they''ve been blabbering in our ears about tedious things like if we''ll raise the protection fees and similar things like that." Jake cut up a portion of pancakes and Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "Jake if running the clubs are too much-" Ricky, thinking it would be best to ease the load on his plate, calmly asked until Jake''s head snapped over to him.


    "It''s not!" Jake crashed his fork into the entire pancake, almost screaming at Ricky who was a little taken aback.


    *Ahem*


    "I mean, I''m fine." Jake quickly dismissed Ricky''s train of thought, regaining himself as the stress slowly seeped out for a brief moment.


    "Slick, believe me when I say that it''s nothing, I can do this." Jake assured Ricky as he stared at him for a while but nodded.


    "Alright." Ricky had learned from Lucky that trust goes both ways so he decided to believe his words.


    "How are you settling in Chores?" Ricky then turned the conversation to Chores who showed a smile.


    "I won''t lie, it''s been a little rough but Jake has really taken me under his wing." Chores didn''t hide how hard it was settling in a new environment but gave credit to Jake.


    "Barko?" Ricky leaned to the side to see Barko greedily eating the eggs, bacon, and hashbrowns.


    *GULP*


    "Love it here." Barko quickly said before resuming his feast since for the last two years he''s been eating dog food and scraps which isn''t to his preferred taste.


    "Is there anything you need?" Ricky asked Jake, who nodded and pulled out a list.


    "''I''ve highlighted multiple things that need to be replaced and I wanted-" Jake tried to ease into it, but Ricky calmly laughed at this and shook his head.


    "Jake I trust you, just tell it to me straight." Ricky saw Jake getting slightly anxious as he calmed him down as he took a breath.


    "I need twenty five grand for repairs." Jake let out a sigh as Chores and Barko choked on their food, astonished by the sheer amount.


    "Clean or dirty?" Ricky asked, standing up and pulling out his key from his inventory, while Jake wiped his face.


    "I don''t want to waste your clean money, Slick, so I''ll wash the dirty money we got from the Jewish stash house," Jake said boldly, causing Ricky to turn back in shock.


    "Didn''t you say it would take some more time to wash the money?" Ricky asked curiously, though he continued pulling fifty grand from the four hundred thousand taken from the stash house.


    "The traffic we get is more than enough to keep the books from looking off," Jake assured Ricky, who nodded in understanding.


    "Madden had been cutting corners with the management of the clubs. Even though he owned the buildings, he didn''t keep them up to code," Jake sighed, frustrated at how horrible the deceased Madden was at maintaining his assets.


    "With that nark Dewey sniffing around more frequently, I don''t want to take any chances." Jaken then got to the point, thinking they could be in trouble if an inspection happened as Ricky frowned at the mention of Dewey''s name.


    The moment the Luciano family confronted the Jewish mob, Dewey made his move, ready to swoop in while they were preoccupied.


    However, as Lucky was receiving this intel and issuing orders to the dirty cops, something unexpected occurred.


    Dewey betrayed his own, revealing his true motives by leaking various pieces of information to suspected corrupt officers.


    Instead of quelling the chaos in Manhattan, he first extinguished the fire in his own house, allowing the city to burn as a result.


    This maneuver finally exposed why he had remained inactive during the Luciano family''s conflict with the Jewish mob.


    Fifty of the cops on Lucky''s payroll received sudden transfer orders, not only to the Brooklyn police station but also to stations in Harlem, Manhattan, and other areas as Dewey had finally declared war on Lucky.


    *Thump*


    "And here." Ricky unexpectedly dropped the duffle bag on the table, along with the dirty fifty thousand, causing Jake''s eyes to widen in surprise.


    "I want you to use this money I got from that old man to start financing more clubs." Ricky decided to put a little more on Jake''s plate but instead of showing distaste, Jake was enthusiastic.


    Ricky had given his father the guns and counterfeits, keeping the money, alcohol, and dirty money for himself, as he needed them for his club.


    His club had slowly become one of the central points of the Luciano family, as it was incredibly easy to sell bootlegged alcohol and drugs not only in the Cotton Club but also in the Stork Club.


    In total, now that Ricky had given some of it to Jake, he had around four hundred and seventy-five thousand in cash, with a hundred of it being clean, which he planned to use to buy up more property.


    "You can count on me, Slick!" Jake boasted as Ricky nodded as he went to drink his OJ.


    *BEEEEEEEP*


    A car horn blared outside, making Ricky stop and glance at the three people with him.


    They shrugged in response, and Ricky peeked out the window, a smile slowly spreading across his face.


    "I got to go, keep me in the loop, alright?" Ricky told Jake who held up a thumbs up.


    Swiping his backpack, Ricky headed toward Henry, who greeted him with a broad smile.


    "I don''t know how you did it but she''s gone." Henry said to him once he got in the car.


    "And hello to you, Henry." Ricky joked since he thought he would have this conversation at school.


    "Also how did you even get in here-oh." Ricky asked, and Henry responded by flashing the card he had given, which made Ricky understand immediately.


    "Ricky, I know I could''ve waited but I need to start prepping you now." Henry said as he started driving while Ricky gave him a weird look.


    "For what-"


    "Obviously to take Ruth''s seat." Henry turned out the gate as Ricky looked surprised.


    As they drove, Ricky felt himself being pulled forward by the powerful mechanical beast of a car as an itch formed at the back of his mind, and he found himself increasingly entranced by the vehicle.


    "Now that Ruth is gone and Jerry named you to take his spot, you''re guaranteed next in line to join the council." Henry informed Ricky, jolting him back to reality as he pulled out a bottle of pineapple cologne from his inventory.


    "First of all, those piranhas are going to drag you down in the meeting later today and-....what is that?" Henry started to inform Ricky until he saw the pineapple cologne.


    "Cologne?" Ricky said as if he was dumb as Henry gave him a weird look as Ricky sighed.


    "No, I mean, why do you have it?" Henry asked, sniffing the air as the fragrance of pineapple cologne permeated around his nose.


    "A guy can''t try something new." Ricky explained that he had a bunch of items in his inventory and wanted to use at least some of them.


    "Anyways, I need some help." Ricky asked just as Henry was about to say something.


    "What do you need?" Henry asked, raising an eyebrow since this was a first for him.


    "I want your opinion on how to invest." Ricky scratched his head as Henry erupted into maniacal laughter.


    "Well of course you wouldn''t invest, but your trust would." Henry spoke as if Ricky should know, but upon seeing Ricky''s blank expression, he also became momentarily puzzled.


    "Oh you were serious, you don''t have any trust!" Henry yelled, almost swerving into oncoming traffic.


    "I don''t even know what that is!" Ricky yelled as a car horn blared in response to Henry''s reckless maneuver, only for him to swiftly swerve back into the right lane.


    "YOU SHOULD-UGH!" Henry felt as if he was going to have a migraine but started calming down.


    "What''s the big deal about trusts, I just wanna invest this money?" Ricky asked, not understanding how wealth really passed over to another generation.


    "Alright listen closely, Wealthy families like mine and everyone else at our school often use holding companies to protect their assets and to achieve greater flexibility and control over their wealth." Henry explained, still a little baffled that Ricky went to their school and didn''t know what a trust is.


    "Another one you could use is holding companies, which are separate legal entities that own and manage the assets of a family, such as stocks, real estate, and other investments. However I''d recommend a trust since it avoids the probate upon the death of the business owner. Reduction or elimination of estate taxes. Business continuity when the owner dies or becomes incapacitated." Henry summarized while Ricky''s head started turning as he didn''t register these words at all.


    "My family uses an irrevocable trust that cannot be changed or modified without the beneficiary''s permission. Essentially, an irrevocable trust removes certain assets from a grantor''s taxable estate, and these incidents of ownership are transferred to a trust." Henry informed him as Ricky nodded though still didn''t understand.


    "I''m sure your father knows about trusts since he''d have to know about that stuff if he wanted to start a bank especially if your working with negros." Henry said, causing Ricky to look at him in surprise.


    "Wait, how do you know my pops is starting a bank?" Ricky asked as Henry raised an eyebrow.


    "Ricky it''s not just me but almost everyone in the school knows about it."


    30 minutes later,


    Ricky understood what Henry meant as he noticed the constant glares from a good number of students, which made him feel uneasy.


    "Why are they staring like they want to rip me apart, the process literally just started and they shouldn''t even know about it, I don''t even know about it?" Ricky whispered as he walked with Henry toward the school.


    "I mean, it was easy for us on the council to find out about your father''s bank, but after they filed the paperwork a couple of days ago, now everyone with half a brain knows about it," Henry informed, starting to dial the combination on his locker as Ricky leaned against it.


    "Is it cause we''re opening it in Harlem?" Ricky asked and Henry nodded without looking at him while shrugging.


    "Honestly my family''s company employs countless black fella''s so it doesn''t bother me as much but a lot of the people aren''t from here but also down south." Henry informed him but Ricky rolled his eyes.


    "Here, people are tolerant of black folks but don''t really act against it, but the south is in a whole different league." Henry explained, a little puzzled as to why his family suddenly cared about colored folks all of a sudden.


    "Whatever, it''s not like I''m trying to be some civil rights activist." Ricky shook his head, but Henry gave him a weird look.


    Although Ricky often acted on a whim, not everyone saw it that way; some viewed him as disrupting the natural order.


    In fact, if it weren''t for his mafia ties and the demonstration of their power, more people might protest against him or try something even worse.


    "Uh huh." Henry thought since Ricky''s actions recently went against it.


    *RING*


    The bell rang, and students began heading toward their classes as they both walked in opposite directions towards their own classes.


    "Seriously." Ricky rolled his eyes at the sight of his usual seat, which was isolated from the other desks as if it were infected with some disease.


    "Well if yer don''t wanna support yer own kind then-ah!" A teenager with a thick Southern accent, who had instigated the situation, spoke up.


    However this underhanded jab was suddenly interrupted when Ricky cocked back his fist, causing the kid to flinch and cover his face, bracing for a punch.


    Though it never came, Ricky shook his head at him before looking at the sea of glares now surrounding him.


    "Alright let me make this clear, I honestly could give a rat''s ass about whatever the f*ck you guys think I''m doing nor do I care what you think. However I''ll warn you now, if any of you try something because of sh*t I did on a whim, then i''m going to kick all of yer asses." Ricky purposely spoke in a southern accent at the end and received a one last glare from the southern guy before setting his bag down next to his seat.


    "Good morning class-what is this?" Ms. Collin wore a smile until she noticed how the other kids were isolated and spaced out compared to Ricky.


    "I see." Ms. Collins, understanding the recent gossip nodded her head before squinting her eyes.


    "Is this how we treat our fellow-"


    "Teach, it''s honestly fine, I really don''t care." Ricky sighed, covering his face, already anticipating the barrage of problems this would bring as he knew this was only the tip of the iceberg.


    "Ricky-"


    *SIGH*


    "Alright, today''s class will be on physical science-" Ms. Collins was hesitant but after seeing how much Ricky didn''t care she went on with her lecture.


    The other kids would steal glances at him but Ricky simply decided to doze off and think about Alina''s tit''s instead.


    ''God I need to pay her another visit, maybe Dolly.'' Ricky thought as he had been a little stressed and thought to get some help, completely forgetting he wasn''t on speaking terms with either.


    *RING*


    The lunch bell rang as Ricky''s thoughts of Alina and Dolly''s naked bodies crossed his mind as he yawned and stood up.


    Ms. Collins hesitated, wanting to say something but closing her mouth, still feeling anxious about her "accident" last time she singled him out to talk to her.


    Walking to lunch, everyone avoided Ricky like the plague as he continued down to the cafeteria and got his lunch.


    Sitting at a table, all the surrounding tables evacuated as Ricky started smiling.


    ''I could get used to this.'' Ricky was initially annoyed by the blatant gestures, but the prospect of not having annoying teenagers trying to get in his good graces all the time made him pleasantly surprised.


    "If it isn''t the man of the hour." Jerry sat across from Ricky with an amused smirk as he sighed.


    "What." Ricky asked with annoyance, downing a spoonful of mashed potatoes as Jerry chuckled as seven more people sat at his table.


    Haroldson, Josh(Haroldson''s brother), George, Arthur, Randal, Robert, and Henry all sat at his table as Ricky scratched his head.


    "Am I going have to kick all of your asses or-"


    "Oh god no." George seriously held up his hands as the other guys immediately showed dissuaded faces.


    "We''re just sitting here to show our support, that''s all." Henry smiled, and Ricky shrugged as he prepared to eat his mashed potatoes.


    "Ricky, everyone is talking bad about you-oh hello." Maria plopped down next to Ricky, only to realize that he had friends sitting beside him.


    Ricky used to sit with Rocco, Jake, and Eddy, but after the accidents, they stopped coming to school with two of them unable to attend and Jake busy managing the clubs.


    He usually sat alone or with Maria yet here he was, surrounded by actual friends which surprised her.


    "Hello Maria." Jerry flashed a smile but quickly retracted his wave when he saw Ricky raise an eyebrow.


    "Hi boys." Maria waved at everyone, and Ricky responded by sliding his hand around her waist and pulling her closer.


    "Good morning." Ricky kissed her reddened cheek before taking a bite of his mash potatoes.


    "Good morning." Maria twirled a curl of her hair with a warm smile.


    Although she was still a bit shy about being kissed by Ricky, she was slowly getting used to it.


    "Is that pineapple?" Maria asked curiously only to receive a kiss on the cheek which made her smile.


    "Wow, you really don''t care about your public exclusion." Josh widened his eyes as Ricky shrugged.


    "Who really cares, it''ll blow over soon-"


    "Oh, I don''t think Joseph is gonna let go of this that easily." Randal chuckled softly while the others displayed uneasy expressions while Ricky felt a piercing glare on his back.


    Turning around, Ricky saw Joseph giving him a hateful stare, surrounded by his friends, all of whom shared similarly hostile glares.


    *Sigh*


    "F*cking hell."


    3 hours later,


    The bell rang as Ricky rubbed his eyes, having just woken from a nap while Ms. Collins gave him a concerned look.


    "R-Ricky, are you alright?" Ms. Collins asked with clear concern though when she was about to touch Ricky''s hand, until she instinctively recoiled back.


    ''Hmmmmm.'' Ricky thought to himself, a smile almost blooming on his face despite the sad look he wore.


    "Well now that you mention it, I could use a hug." Ricky shamelessly stood up, spreading his arms wide as Ms. Collins displayed an anxious expression.


    However after seeing the isolation, Ms. Collin couldn''t let her student suffer so she carefully leaned in as he slowly wrapped his arms around her.


    ''Wet to the touch.''


    "Mmmm~" Ms. Collin leaned into Ricky''s chest as she let out a muffled moan, her panties flooding in her own sweet nectar of pleasure.


    "This is nice." Ricky played dumb, rubbing her back gently as Ms. Collins'' knees began to wobble.


    "Thank you so much Ms. Collins, I really needed that." Ricky gently pushed Ms. Collins away while still holding her shoulder.


    Her face blushed like a tomato, unable to make eye contact with him out of shame as she tried to keep a stern face.


    "Well, I best get going." Ricky patted her shoulder, sensing that she would take considerable time to wear down, and then walked out of the classroom.


    This was part of Ricky''s three-step plan to get close to her as the first step was to loosen up her defenses, the second was to consummate the encounter, and the third was to reap the rewards of his victory.


    Ms. Collins wobbled to her seat, but once she sat down, she collapsed, burying her face in her hands.


    Ricky calmly walked to his locker, reached inside, and put something in his backpack before closing it as Maria''s bright smile greeted him from within.


    "Ricky~" Maria giggled, leaping into his arms as Ricky twirled her around.


    Ricky had noticed that their bond had heightened after their small time apart as Maria was much less nervous with physical affection.


    "Are you ready to go to the meeting?" Ricky slung his arm around her and asked as she immediately became nervous.


    "Will they be as mean to you as today?" Maria asked, but Ricky shrugged, indifferent to the concern.


    "I don''t know, maybe?"


    Walking to the meeting room, it was exactly as Maria had predicted, though only partly so, as only around half of the Skull and Bones club avoided his area.


    "Settle down, settle down!" Henry banged the gavel, and sneering words began to seep out as Ricky took his place on the council.


    Joseph, holding himself back, stared intently at Henry, as if waiting for something.


    "I know you''ve all heard the news of one of our members entering a new venture-"


    "HE''S TRYING TO BRING US DOWN, OUR LIFESTYLE-"


    *BAM*


    "I SAID QUIET!" Henry slammed his gavel down, causing someone to hop to their feet, only to freeze under Henry''s deadly gaze.


    "Now-"


    "Can I say something first, Henry?" Ricky asked, and Henry thought he was going to give the members a speech, to which he gestured for him to go.


    Ricky nodded; since Henry was right in a way.


    Ricky wasn''t the type to make subtle, underhanded speeches to gain support and was more blunt and way more intimidating.


    "I know that I won''t be able to convince you to change your ways of life however, I''ve brought something with me today that will make you reconsider your blatant hostility towards me." Ricky said gently, as the other members looked at him with questioning gazes.


    "Oh, Jesus Christ Ricky." Henry whispered after catching sight of what Ricky had hidden below the table.


    "This is a smith and wesson model 10, custom tailored for my specific grip." Ricky revealed a literal gun, prompting a range of gasps as many of the members, including Joseph, stood up in fear.


    "She''s a beauty, am I right? Six shots with a steel outline, this gun was made for nothing other than killing another man." Ricky spun the loader with a maniacal chuckle, Maria facepalming all the while the other members became pale.


    "Alright now that I''ve said my peace, if anyone would like to say anything then please do, but don''t say it to me."


    *Click*


    "Say it to her." Ricky pointed to his now fully cocked gun as Jerry started laughing crazily, while the other members questioned the effectiveness of his display.


    "...."


    The members, all distasteful of his appointment to the council, kept their mouths shut, including Joseph.


    "Joseph, anything you want to say?" Ricky pointed the gun right at him before he instinctively ducked behind his fiance Betty.


    "JOE!" Betty let out a horrified gasp at his action as he shot right up.


    "N-No it''s not what you think-" Joseph tried to explain, but Ricky didn''t care to waste even a single second on their problems.


    "Then if no one has any other thoughts, let''s continue." Ricky set the gun on the table as Henry finally finished massaging his temple.


    "Then Ricky Luciano will be the next member of the high council effective immediately, any objections, no, alright." Henry said in a dull manner, side-eyeing Ricky who shrugged.


    *BAM*


    The council proceedings were a snooze fest, but Ricky never took his eyes off that darling girl on the table, and all the members had a front-row seat to her beauty.


    However, as he focused on the revolver, his mind quickly dissected its workings, seemingly entranced by the mechanism before him.


    *BAM*


    "Then without further ado that concludes this meeting."


    Ricky flinched, his trance effectively broken as he looked around and realized he had been staring at his revolver for the past two hours.


    Noticing Maria''s worried expression, she hurried over, leaning down to rub his back comfortingly.


    "Are you okay Ricky, you didn''t even blink for the entire meeting." Maria asked only to see Ricky pull out a pocket knife which surprised her.


    Ricky wanted to ease her worries, but the persistent itch at the back of his mind suddenly intensified and driven by the sensation, he pulled the revolver closer to him.


    "Ricky?" Maria became increasingly worried as she saw Ricky start to use the pocket knife to dissect the revolver.


    "Betty, BETTY!" Joseph ran after his fiance though she pushed him aside and hurried out of the meeting room.


    "What are you doing?" Jerry strolled over to Ricky and looked at him curiously taking apart the revolver.


    "Skewing the balance of the revolver to counteract the recoil." Ricky said it as if it were the easiest thing in the world, yet both Jerry and Henry, overhearing him, were left baffled.


    "What do you mean-.....is that pineapple?" Jerry was about to lean over Ricky''s shoulder only to ask though he was being ignored.


    Ricky was seemingly scrapping all around the revolver before knocking other edges until he slowly started to put it back together.


    Only when he did, Ricky''s old revolver had become littered in scratches and chippings as Jerry tilted his head.


    "Well that was weird." Jerry commented, and Ricky nodded, though he couldn''t identify the culprit.


    Ricky had essentially multitasked, scanning his system and realizing how frustrating intuitive genius could be for him.


    ''Damn intuitive genius.'' Ricky thought, standing up in grief and grabbing Maria''s hand.


    "Anyways, let''s go Maria." Ricky smiled as Maria melted at it, nodding before walking out with him.


    "You can''t just do something that weird and not explain yourself!" Henry yelled behind him though he only waved in response.


    "LET ME GO!" A screech was heard as the two turned their gaze to Joseph holding Betty against the lockers.


    "How was your day today?" Ricky ignored the obvious red flag since it was none of his business as he tried to walk the other way.


    "Ricky~" Maria whined while pointing at Betty while Ricky sighed but relented and walked over.


    "Betty it was an accident, I didn''t mean-"


    *BAM*


    Joseph hurriedly tried to explain to the livid Betty only for Ricky to shove his face into the locker as he slid it down weirdly.


    Ricky turned towards Maria, who had crossed her arms as he sighed, then looked down at the confused Joseph and the surprised Betty.


    *BAM*


    *COUGH*


    Ricky wound up his leg and drove it into Joseph''s stomach, causing him to lose any foothold he might have had.


    ''I mean, might as well.'' Ricky thought to himself as he began patting Joseph down, eventually retrieving his wallet.


    "What are you doing?!" Betty asked incredulously as Ricky began pulling out one hundred and twenty-seven dollars from the wallet.


    "Saving you." Ricky said as he threw the wallet back onto Joseph''s body before turning back to Maria who was sighing.


    "What, it was just there like-.....taking candy from a weirdly overgrown and angry baby." Ricky tried to find an analogy to explain himself but it came really weird.


    "Seriously Ricky~" Maria walked over to Betty, slinking her arm around the confused and slightly distressed girl.


    "Are you okay?" Maria asked in a sincere tone, and Betty''s face almost cracked, while Ricky frowned at Maria seemingly being taken away from him.


    They walked out of the building only to see double the amount of black cars than usual.


    Maria always had a trail of cars waiting for her; however, when Ricky gazed at a particular car, he raised an eyebrow.


    The window rolled down as Lucky looked out with black shades before tipping them down ever so slightly.


    "Get in."


    Meanwhile at the New York senate offices,


    "Robert, you can''t be serious!" Dewey looked as if the vein throbbing on his forehead might burst at any moment.


    "Watch yourself Mr. Dewey." A slightly old man with a protruding beer gut, covered from head to toe in a fine blue suit with an American pin on his left chest, threatened without a care.


    "But this-"


    "Mr. Luciano has all the right paperwork as well as the funds to provide for this particular area of investment." Robert announced, his appearance bearing a slight resemblance to someone Ricky knew.


    In fact, this was the third class senator Robert F. Wagner and the father of Robert F. Wagner ll.


    (Ima call his dad Wagner from now on.)


    "He''s a gangster!" Dewey yelled at Wagner, who stopped walking and turned around.


    "Everyday, banks are failing and it''s always the banks that support the little guys." Wagner said something, and Dewey''s eyes widened with realization.


    "You''re doing this because it''s your re-election year, isn''t it?" Dewey wrongly assumed since it was indeed Wagner''s election year.


    The real reason wasn''t just because it was his election year and he might boost his poll numbers, but also because of his son.


    Robert had informed him about Ricky. Although he wasn''t initially keen on Ricky, especially given the trouble he caused, his son''s persuasion changed his mind.


    He decided that Ricky would be a valuable aid for when his son took office one day and resolved to get on the good side of the Luciano family.


    "Mr. Luciano has put up two million of already taxed money and unless you have any proof, that says his already double the required amount of seed money I might add, might be dirty then please tell me right now." Wagner spoke, and Dewey began to respond but then closed his mouth.


    Lucky might be a notorious gangster, but unlike Al Capone, he paid his taxes, at least as far as the government knew.


    Lucky was very cautious in that regard and was almost paranoid about using dirty money in anything but the underworld operations.


    Everything Lucky owned that could be seen in public was bought with clean money and that includes his 500,000 private mansion.


    "Then Lucky Legacy Bank will open its doors next October." Wagner turned around and continued walking, leaving Dewey gritting his teeth in frustration.


    "Dammit!" Dewey threw his papers on the ground, and although passersby gazed at him, they continued on their way.


    ''I cannot believe he''d get away with this!'' Dewey roared in his mind, astonished that Lucky had managed to get away with this.


    This was honestly the biggest gamble that Dewey understood from Lucky''s perspective, since unlike the others, he knew that Lucky was putting all of his clean money into this bank, but once it opened, it wouldn''t be a problem for this bank to become successful.


    Laundering money would be a cakewalk in these times of crisis, since the government isn''t entirely interested in how the money is there but whether they can tax it or not.


    The depression had made the American economy take a couple of steps back, and one way to speed up the trench that the economy plummeted into was to accept any upstart banks.


    Now, from Dewey''s perspective, it didn''t matter that the establishment''s main attraction was allowing African Americans to store money; what mattered was that it expedited the Luciano family''s money laundering operations.


    ''He''s just so damn Lucky!''

 Chapter 51: Q&A/Critisms/Suggestions

    Chapter 51: Q&A/Critisms/Suggestions


    I thought it was appropriate to do a Q&A after reaching 50 Chapters, especially since I''m honestly surprised I made it this far. I never thought I''d stick with it, but here we are, and now it feels necessary to open up this kind of thing since I finally got to the Marvel part.


    First off, I get that it might have been frustrating to read up until now. You probably clicked on this story because it mentioned Marvel, and instead, you''ve been met with a lot of world-building. But like I mentioned in the introduction Chapter, I''m using this as a practice story to test out some of my other ideas and see if they work.


    I''m also aware that I''m still not great at the whole system aspect of the story. I know it''s not the best and could be better.


    I wanted to take this Chapter to really hear from you all because while I do see your comments, my profile keeps glitching out for some reason, and it literally doesn''t show my f*cking replies sometimes even when I''ve tried like fourteen times.


    For example, both IntrusiveThoughts and literl010 have left detailed suggestions, but Webnovel doesn''t show anything from my end when I try to respond. IntrusiveThoughts gave some really detailed feedback, and literl010 commented about the accounting books, but my responses just aren''t showing up.


    So, if you have questions or suggestions, I do see them all, but Webnovel''s system is really frustrating sometimes and doesn''t f*cking show my reply. It''s gotten to the point where I had to write all this out just to show how annoyed I am about trying to respond over and over with no success.


    Anyway, for criticisms or suggestions, I''m breaking it up into four categories: Story, Smut, System, and Others. Basically, let me know what I could improve, what you''d like to see more of, and anything else.


    Story


    Smut


    System


    Others


    For the Q&A, you can comment on this Chapter, and if you want to be specific, just post your questions here.


    Questions.


    I''m also really lazy and Webnovel can be slow, so I might not respond immediately, but I''ll get to it.


    Thanks for liking my degenerate story so far - LaughingFiend

 Chapter 52 - 51: Integrating into the family

    Chapter 52: Chapter 51: Integrating into the family


    "Are you sure your alright-"


    "I''ll be fine Ricky, I''ll see you later." Maria kissed Ricky''s cheek before returning to Betty''s side, sighing at this and turned to Lucky waiting in the car.


    Walking around, he opened the car door and got in before the black cars immediately sped off.


    "We are heading to management." Lucky spoke, subtly informing Ricky that he was about to be introduced to the family''s internal matters, signaling a deeper level of trust and involvement in the Luciano operations.


    "Holy sh*t, really?" Ricky, still surprised by the notion despite their heartfelt talk, asked for clarification as Lucky patted his shoulder reassuringly.


    "Really." Lucky''s smile lingered as Ricky nodded, but a sudden thought from his earlier conversation with Henry this morning flashed through his mind.


    "Hey pops, do you know about trust and holding companies?" Ricky inquired, a hint of curiosity creeping into his voice.


    He''d never given much thought to trusts and holding companies until Henry mentioned them, and now the unfamiliarity gnawed at him.


    "Of course, I''m not an idiot." Lucky brushed it off as if it were nothing, but Ricky gave him a puzzled look.


    "Listen dumbass, I want our family to have generational wealth so of course I made a trust for you." Lucky shook his head, a hint of frustration crossing his face as he was reminded just how clueless his son could be at times.


    "You did?" Ricky asked, his confusion evident, but Lucky only nodded in response.


    "I set up an irrevocable trust with me as an advisor to operate it until I deem you ready to control it fully. All my assets are already in it, including the ownership shares of the bank, along with others, are all located in the trust." Lucky informed Ricky, explaining that he had been self-educating on these matters ever since he adopted him.


    Initially, Lucky had been prepared to let his last name die with him, but with Ricky now in the picture, he was determined to ensure that his family legacy would endure and thrive for generations to come.


    "What about my buildings-"


    "There in your name so I couldn''t touch them." Lucky, already knowing where this conversation was heading, interrupted Ricky.


    "Well, what do you think I should do?" Ricky asked, his curiosity piqued, while Lucky shot him a sidelong glance.


    "Well, what do you want to do?" Lucky first asked, needing to ensure Ricky had some level of understanding and involvement.


    "I wanted to invest in a company with the clean forty thousand-"


    "What companies?" Lucky interrupted, but Ricky responded with a blank expression, clearly confused.


    "Ford?" Ricky instinctively said, Lucky rolling his eyes at his naive son''s amateur business skills.


    "Listen-"


    *SIGH*


    ''Y''know what, no, you''ll have to learn failure.'' Lucky thought to himself just as he was about to lecture him until he had another idea.


    Lucky had originally set up a holding company to invest in the volatile market during the Great Depression.


    However, after seeing the opportunity of creating a bank, he decided to put his chips in that basket instead, so the holding company''s funds were just sitting there.


    "I already made a holding company called ''Luciano Financial'' and I''ll let you use it to invest your forty thousand in the stock market. Hell, I''ll even do the paperwork to get the bank to transfer that money into funds to the holding company." Lucky gave him an opportunity since he thought of this as a learning experience.


    Lucky knew Ricky wouldn''t be a business genius overnight, but from his observations, Ricky seemed to learn more from failure than from success.


    Deciding to accelerate Ricky''s growth, Lucky resolved to push him through some deliberate failures, hoping it would force him into improvement.


    "Wow, thanks pops." Ricky thought about Lucky''s offer and saw no reason to refuse it.


    "Also, your clubs are businesses that need constant oversight. It would be better to place them under the holding company within the trust rather than the trust itself. I''ll make you the controller of the holding company," Lucky patted his shoulder, reaffirming himself that this upcoming failure was for his own good.


    "Boss, we''re here." The driver instructed, but Ricky looked puzzled, as they were parked across the street from Italiano''s.


    "We moved our operations to this building." Lucky anticipated Ricky''s question as they both exited the car and walked side by side.


    "Listen up, your rank is Caporegime and a meeting is being held today on which operations you will be handling for the family." Lucky spoke quietly so only Ricky could hear.


    "There will be plenty of options, but you should focus on protection rackets in Harlem. It''s straightforward, and everyone down there already holds you in high regard," Lucky advised Ricky who frowned slightly, considering the implications.


    ''That seems boring.'' Ricky frowned, Lucky frowning at his son''s frown.


    "I swear I''ll beat the living sh*t out of you if you pick something like drug smuggling-"


    "Slick!" Genovese smiled as he stood, opening the door and extending his hand for a handshake.


    "It''s good to see ya, I''m glad you''re finally coming into the family." Genovese said warmly, though Ricky''s raised eyebrow betrayed his suspicion of the clear insincerity as he detected it as a lie.


    "Y''know, I''m really proud of what you''ve done for the family so far and I''ve been itching to see you enter the fold." Genovese spoke with apparent glee, but Ricky''s confusion deepened as he struggled to grasp the underlying meaning.


    ''Does he not like me?'' Ricky thought about his limited interactions with Genovese, realizing they hadn''t had any conflicts for him to have anything against him


    However Ricky''s assessment was spot on; Genovese had indeed started to harbor animosity towards him.


    Genovese was originally positioned to inherit leadership of the family from Lucky once it was his time to pass the torch.


    However, Lucky''s clear favoritism towards Ricky had stirred resentment within Genovese over the years.


    In Mafia families, the leader''s position holds immense power, not just in authority but also in preserving the family''s name and legacy.


    While the family''s name might change over time with its leader, the core identity and values remain, often passed down through generations of leadership.


    Genovese''s ambition to have his name on the door and lead the family was increasingly threatened by Ricky''s sudden rise and Lucky''s overt favoritism towards him.


    Initially, Genovese didn''t harbor resentment towards Ricky, but as Ricky began to demonstrate his value to the family, Genovese''s wariness grew.


    This sentiment escalated to full-blown resentment, especially when Lucky highlighted Ricky''s connection to the Vatican, which garnered significant respect and support within the family.


    Despite any personal feelings, members of the family couldn''t even openly oppose Ricky without going against the church, which tilted the balance of power further in Ricky''s favor.


    ''You damn f*cking runt, I''ll show you your place just you wait.'' Genvose thought through gritted teeth as he purposely led Ricky into the room before Lucky could warn him anymore.


    Upon entering, Ricky noticed about fifty high-ranking members of the family gathered in the room.


    Lucky had been aggressively recruiting members over the past two years, a strategy that some of the other dons viewed with skepticism.


    While it increased their manpower, it also meant spending a significant amount on their pay, which could have been allocated to other ventures.


    It also led to the family being stretched thin, and maintaining close-knit relationships was crucial for the success of their operations.


    While family loyalty was essential, an exceptionally tight-knit group was considered vital above all else.


    Despite the tension surrounding Ricky''s introduction and the looming division between factions, the high-ranking members knew the stakes were high.


    When Lucky entered the room, he raised his hand, signaling for everyone to take their seats though their gazes remained on Ricky.


    "I''m sure you all know my son, so let''s skip the pleasantries. I''m announcing him as the newest Capo in the family," Lucky declared, gesturing toward Ricky as the other high-ranking members nodded in acknowledgement and respect.


    "Now, due to his numerous achievements, I''ve decided to let him decide what field he wants to focus his efforts in." Lucky then gave him the floor as Genovese widened his eyes though before he could say anything, Ricky moved forward.


    Then with a dumbest smile, Ricky walked in front of all these members as Lucky had a sudden foreboding feeling.


    "I will be focusing on drug smuggling." Ricky spoke the very thing that Lucky told him not to say.


    "You motherf-" Lucky held his cane up only to have Genovese suddenly step forward.


    "Of course Slick would want to go after one of our most risky fields!" Genovese announced as the other members were confused since they expected him to pick something easier, like the protection racket.


    Ricky selected drug smuggling, partly because it was one of the things his father had explicitly advised against.


    It was as if he was drawn to the very things Lucky wanted him to avoid, finding them more intriguing than anything else.


    Or at least, that was what he would tell people when asked.


    In truth, however, Ricky''s choice stemmed from a deeper motivation: he wanted to prove to Lucky that bringing him into the family wasn''t a mistake, and that he was worthy of all the trust placed in him while being able to bear the responsibility always held in high regard for him.


    "Aye Slick, I know you''re young and all, but are you sure bout this?" An older fella asked with slight concern after seeing the maddening glare from Lucky.


    "Yeah why not-" Ricky shrugged light heartedly, Lucky''s vein almost snapping on his forehead.


    "IMA KILL YOU!" Lucky rushed at Ricky only to have Genovese hold him back as the other members immediately stood up.


    "Oh come on pops." Ricky sighed dodging backwards as Lucky tried to swing his cane at him.


    "You know what, fine, FINE." Lucky stopped while adjusting his hair as Ricky showed surprise.


    "You think you''re hot stuff just because you''ve had a few lucky breaks?" Lucky''s voice was edged with a dangerous amusement.


    He laughed maniacally, his eyes glinting with a sinister light as the room fell into an uneasy silence, with even Genovese visibly tensing at the volatile mood.


    "We''ve been having trouble getting our product from Mexico to here, thanks to the government cracking down on the border." Lucky''s tone grew more intense, his frustration palpable.


    The other members exchanged uneasy glances, their eyes widening at the gravity of the situation.


    "Cool." Ricky smiled with some light hearted mannerisms as Lucky burst out in a sarcastical parade of laughter.


    "Oh it''s cool, it''ll be very ''cool'' when I get to bail you out of a Texas prison!" Lucky pointed his cane at Ricky.


    "You really don''t believe I can do it, do you." Ricky slowly started to loss his smile as Lucky had a vein form on his forehead.


    "Slick, we''ve been cut off for the last year and have lost well over 700,000 in cash alone while trying to get the weed over the board." A member, who was previously involved in the smuggling ring, informed him.


    "Fine then I''ll bring back 700,000 worth of it." Ricky boldly proclaimed his readiness to tackle the challenge, his confidence unwavering.


    Genovese, sensing an opportunity to gain favor, grinned from ear to ear, while Lucky, overwhelmed by the mounting pressure, clutched his head in frustration.


    "I need a drink." Lucky pulled out a flask as the others were reeling in from what he was saying.


    "Slick you can''t-"


    "Alright Slick, we all believe in you so I''ll even help you out and contact our guy Guerra." Genovose smiled though Ricky could feel it was the truth as he shrugged.


    "Great."


    Later that day,


    Lucky and Ricky were driving back to the house before Lucky finally turned towards his idiotic son.


    "Why do you always do this, huh?" Lucky was on the cusp of starting his lecture as Ricky sighed.


    "What happened to respecting me?" Ricky turned back to Lucky to freeze before shaking his head.


    "No, no, no, don''t act like-"


    "Listen pops, I know you want to help me succeed, but when you were my age were you simply trying to make ends?" Ricky asked as Lucky immediately shut his trap since he''d be lying.


    Lucky paused to reflect and realized the hypocrisy in his own stance.


    When he was Ricky''s age, he had been robbing cargo ships and trucks with nothing more than a beat-up car and an old pistol.


    Now, here he was, judging Ricky for stepping into the same treacherous world he once navigated with far less.


    "And I get that you''re only trying to protect me, but how many times are you going to say you''re going to include me before trying to immediately exclude me." Ricky said as he was beginning to feel a hint of frustration.


    Although Lucky included him in various activities, he would often turn around and attempt to isolate him, claiming it was all for his protection.


    Lucky opened his mouth to retort but slowly closed it as Ricky made another compelling point and with a reluctant nod, Lucky conceded the argument.


    "Fine, but let''s make a wager." Lucky suddenly proposed a bet, immediately making Ricky intrigued.


    "If you win, I''ll let you do f*ck all in the family and hold the reins freely but if you fail, you''re gonna be on my leash, capish?" Lucky gave the conditions, holding out his hand as Ricky grabbed it immediately.


    "Deal."


    Ricky had unwavering confidence in his own abilities, while Lucky feared that Ricky''s arrogance would ultimately lead to his downfall.


    "You know who you remind me of." Lucky suddenly spoke up after releasing Ricky''s hand, causing Ricky to tilt his head in curiosity.


    "You?" Ricky presumed but Lucky started out laughing hysterically.


    "No way, you''re an idiot." Lucky shook his head before wiping his eyes.


    "No Capone, you''re like a spitting image of him when he was younger." Lucky spoke, prompting Ricky to raise an eyebrow in response.


    "Y''know Capone was even richer than you, right?" Ricky taunted but Lucky scoffed at this well known fact.


    "And look where he''s now, in the slammer." Lucky waved Ricky''s notion aside.


    "Capone was trying to get rich quick, I''m trying to build something real." Lucky pointed at Ricky as he looked out the window.


    "I''m trying to build a foundation and that Capone always prioritized short-term gains while I''m always looking at the long-term options." Lucky shook his finger in a lecturing way but Ricky shrugged his shoulder.


    "Anyways forget about everything, tell me about your day." Lucky smiled as Ricky then started recounting the day before he let out a boastering laughter.


    "You really pulled out a gun on them, that''s hilarious!" Lucky slammed his hand on his knee as Ricky nodded while pulling out his revolver.


    "Why does it look so beat up?" Lucky asked after seeing the chippings and scratches Ricky caused modifications.


    "I took it apart and made it better." Ricky simply said though once he did, Lucky snatched it from his hands before reaching into his coat.


    "No way, Slick." Lucky went full dad mode and handed his pistol to Ricky while holstering the one he just took.


    "Ain''t no way you are gonna convince me that you simply took this revolver and made it ''better''." Lucky spoke loudly enough for everyone to hear, aware that if people didn''t know of his skill, they might not fully appreciate it.


    Ricky frowned, feeling an unsettling itch at the back of his head as he held the gun but this time, it was stronger, more insistent than before.


    "Oh don''t be like that, you can play around with chicks but guns, guns is where I draw the line." Lucky said as he opened the door to see Ricky''s gerbil wearing his armor.


    "YOUNG RICKY, OUR TRAINING CONTINUES!" Alexander roared outwards, Chester flapping his wings while Lucky shook his head.


    "I swear that kid''s like a magnet for weirdness." Lucky simply walked by the gerbil as Ricky wasn''t paying attention to Alexander but the pistol in his hand.


    "Oh hey Alexander-"


    "CEASE YOUR WORDS, WE START NOW!"


    Later that night at the Cotton Club, Jake was snoring at his desk, buried under a mountain of papers, when the door suddenly swung open.


    "JAKE!"


    "HUH!" Jake''s sleeping face jerked upright, a paper stuck to his cheek, as he looked up groggily at Ricky.


    "PUAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky erupted into maniacal laughter as he saw Jake reach for his gun.


    Unfazed by the threat, Ricky strolled over to the seat in front of Jake, who was still a little out of it, and took a seat.


    "S-Slick!?" Jake was confused and shocked at his arrival as Ricky saluted.


    "How was your nap?" Ricky asked, his amusement evident, as Jake hurriedly peeled the paper stuck to his face.


    *Ahem*


    "I was simply taking a quick power nap." Jake scratched his chin knowing his excuse was poor but Ricky didn''t care.


    "Whatever, you want to come with me to Mexico?" Ricky asked with anticipation but Jake gave him a weird look.


    "Why Mexico?" Jake asked, then paused as a realization hit him, shaking his head in disbelief.


    "Slick no-"


    "Yes."


    "You can''t-"


    "I will."


    "SLICK!" Jake yelled at Ricky who started laughing knowing he couldn''t stop him.


    "So you in?" Ricky asked, but Jake sighed and leaned back in his chair.


    "No Slick, I''m not ''in'' since I got to do all of this." Jake spread his arms while Ricky rubbed his chin, trying to think of a solution to bring him along.


    *Snap*


    "Then delegate it." Ricky came up with a brilliant idea and Jake rolled his eyes.


    "It''s not that simple." Jake said to Ricky, who frowned, realizing that it really was that simple.


    However, upon seeing Jake''s expression, he merely shrugged while knowing that this tough cracker wouldn''t relent.


    "Welp, tell me if you change your mind and do you want some help with- '''' Ricky left the door open as he picked up a piece of paper, only for Jake to quickly snatch it away.


    "I can handle it Slick, I don''t need any help." Jake scratched his head while setting different papers in different areas as Ricky walked to the door.


    Looking back, Ricky saw Jake absorbed in his work and although he frowned at the sight, he didn''t want to be as controlling as his father, so he simply turned and left.


    "Aye Chores, Barko." Ricky dashed up to Chores, who was working as a bouncer, and Barko, who was there for moral support.


    "Wanna go to Mexico?" Ricky asked Chores who went to reply with a hard ''no'' but stopped himself.


    "You know what, I will." Chores said calmly, surprising both Barko and Ricky with his unexpected initiative.


    "Really?" Ricky asked since he thought he''d have to at least convince him.


    "Usually I wouldn''t simply be swayed by your statement, however, I''ve never traveled unless it was against my own will, so I want to travel on my own volition." Chores poetically said and Barko nodded his head.


    "Then if Chores is in, then I''m in." Barko agreed, making Ricky smirk while patting his shoulder along with scratching Barko''s head.


    "Alright then, I''ll come get you when it''s time." Ricky left without even giving a set date, a signature move of his, though neither of them seemed bothered by it at this point.


    He rubbed his eyes wearily as he headed back to the mansion, collapsing onto his bed without bothering to remove his shirt.


    The necklace around his neck glinted in the faint moonlight but the circular black stone, at the center, remained untouched by the light, appearing completely hollow.


    Until a pulse of energy radiated from within it.


    Meanwhile At The Vatican,


    "Are we seriously doing this, he''s just a brat-"


    "You violated the rules and you need to pay the price, Abraham." Father Sebastion cut him off as they walked down a long hallway towards the inner council.


    The hallway was lined with paintings of historical figures, each rendered as heroic icons, their legacies immortalized through the gaze of the Vatican.


    *Sigh*


    "Rules schmules." Abraham scoffed, walking past a particular painting though instead of continuing as he usually does, he stopped.


    "You''ve gotta be sh*tting me." Abraham''s jaw dropped as he paced backward, his incredulity evident from what he glimpsed in his peripheral vision.


    Meanwhile, Father Sebastian scoffed, his disdain clear while thinking Abraham was about to make a fuss over nothing once more.


    "Must you use such vulgar language in such a holy place-"


    "LOOK!" Abraham screeched, prompting Father Sebastian to angrily turn toward him, his ire focused on the man pointing at a large painting.


    "WHAT ARE YOU ON ABOUT-by the grace of the gods." Father Sebastian exhaled a small breath of cold air, staring at the painting in a daze.


    "I KNEW IT, I KNEW HE SEEMED FAMILIAR!" Abraham put his hands on his head, showing an ironic smile while they were in complete shock.


    "This-...this explains everything." Father Sebastion whispered to himself as Abraham started laughing.


    "Of course it was that damn bloodline, it''s almost as cursed as mine!" Abraham covered his eyes as he shouted in a hysterical manner.


    "We must make haste; the inner council needs to know that another candidate for the position has appeared," Father Sebastian said urgently, rushing toward the room without a second glance at Abraham, who flinched.


    "H-Hey wait for me!" Abraham, who was at first unwilling, eagerly rushed knowing chaos would unfold.


    The painting, however, remained steadfastly mounted on the wall, as it had for centuries, with the figure within it presenting itself boastfully.


    A knightly figure emerged for anyone who gazed upon the masterpiece, his armor clad in deep black with striking red undertones.


    The man in the painting looked eerily similar to Ricky, almost like a twin as their resemblance was uncanny.


    However, while Ricky had short, slick black hair and green eyes, this figure sported long blond hair and light blue eyes.


    Beneath the magnificent mounted painting was a carving ingrained in solid gold, the inscriptions of his name commanding respect as if by divine decree.


    ''Sir Percival, The Black Knight.''


    Author Note: I''ve seen all your comments, questions, critisms, and suggestions, but I''m in a bad mood after dying in RLCraft and losing all my sh*t. I don''t think I''m in the right mindset to respond right now, so I''m going to take some time to cool down and will address most of it tomorrow.

 Chapter 53 - 52: Pure Frustration

    Chapter 53: Chapter 52: Pure Frustration


    3 weeks later,


    Three weeks had passed since Ricky had coasted by, and now he found himself seated across from the most intimidating man in America, John D. Rockefeller.


    *Sigh*


    Ricky sighed, having spent the last hour sitting in Rockefeller''s childhood home while Chester repeatedly refreshed the Genjutsu.


    Between training under Alexander, spending time with Maria, making half-hearted attempts to seduce Ms. Collins, barely putting in any effort at school, slacking off during Skull and Bones meetings, delegating all his tasks to his underlings, and shirking every other responsibility, Ricky was coasting through life with a careless ease.


    However, lately, Ricky had become increasingly tense, caught in an unexpected dry spell that left him feeling more agitated by the day.


    These slumps usually every so often, but this time, the lack of action was starting to grate on him.


    It was as if his polarity had been flipped in the opposite direction, his usual antics acting as repellent.


    It had gotten so bad that Ricky found himself trying to break the streak by revisiting past flings, despite his earlier resolve to give them space.


    For Alina, it was still too soon, but with another, he felt he''d let her simmer long enough and finally, Ricky decided it was time to confront Dolly.


    *Flashback*


    Ricky, wearing his usual greaser attire that complemented the era, held a bouquet of daisies that matched Dolly''s silky blond hair.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    ''Remember Ricky, you''re not desperate until you exhaust all options and she''s still one of them.'' Ricky, clearly aware of his cold streak, urged himself while the door slowly creaked open.


    "R-Ricky?" Dolly''s eyes shrunk, instinctively ducking half of her body behind the door.


    Even then, Ricky''s smile curved into a sleazy grin as he took in how beautiful Dolly had become since he last saw her, radiating an exuberant glow that made his pants tighten.


    "Hey beautiful, can I come it-" Ricky was already stepping into the doorway, poised to make his move and finally loosen his clogged and rusted gears, until Dolly bit her lip.


    "NO-" Dolly suddenly yelled, Ricky flinching at this sudden declaration.


    *COUGH*


    "I-I mean, not right now." Dolly couldn''t even look Ricky in the eye, ashamed at what she had done with him.


    "Did I do something wrong?" Ricky asked, confused at why he gave this reaction until he realized something.


    ''Did she find out about Sammy?'' Ricky thought, knowing that his family was responsible for his death.


    However, Dolly simply clutched the door tightly, her eyes welling with tears while showing it wasn''t anger that held her back, but it was guilt that froze her.


    Everyone was different, and situations were perceived in their own unique ways and for some, they could overlook Ricky''s actual age, as he neither looked nor behaved like it.


    But for others it was different.


    Dolly was too pure for her own good and from the moment she intertwined her body with his, she believed she had wronged him.


    In her mind, she was the one taking advantage of Ricky, and with a recent revelation, she could hardly stand to face herself in the mirror.


    Ironically, it was this very innocence that had drawn Ricky to her in the first place, yet it was also what now kept them apart.


    Dolly''s misguided guilt had completely twisted the situation against herself, proposing Ricky as the victim and her being away from him was supposed to benefit the very person who acted first.


    *Sniff*


    "I''m so sorry Ricky, for what I did to you." Dolly''s eyes watered, looking at Ricky who was frozen at the sudden twist in the situation.


    "What-"


    "I-I defiled you, I was supposed to look out for you as an adult and I took advantage of that trust, and I''m so sorry." Dolly choked on her own tears, Ricky completely flabbergasted at what happened as he thought of something.


    ''Wait a second, am being cock blocked by sincerity?'' Ricky suddenly thought, scratching his head but shaking his head.


    "Dolly you didn''t do anything, I came here-"


    "Oh Ricky, sweet innocent Ricky." Dolly rubbed her eyes, laughing a bit while Ricky looked around as if this was a practical joke.


    ''Innocent?!?!?!?!'' Ricky thought, baffled since he''d been cursed out by a school of nuns before.


    "One day, you''re going to make a woman so happy and just being a part of your life has been such a blessing." Dolly''s face showed a gentle and sad smile, looking down at the ground.


    "But I don''t want to be the reason that stops you from reaching a brighter future." Dolly closed her eyes, RIcky shaking his head along with the flowers in his hand.


    "Dolly, I swear by the heavens themselves that you were not the one that took advantage of me-"


    "Goodbye Ricky." Dolly steeled her bleeding heart, closing the door as Ricky showed his face in the constantly diminished slither.


    "Dolly, Dolly, don''t close the door, Dolly-"


    However, the door was abruptly shut in Ricky''s face as he stood there, momentarily shocked and frozen, much like the door behind him, and he lightly thumped his head against it.


    ''Oh my god, no way that just happened.'' Ricky thought, chuckling softly at an experience he had never encountered, even in his past life.


    ''F*cking cold streak.''


    *FLASHBACK END*


    Trying to put this evident fact behind him, Ricky put his focus on preparing for his drug smuggling mission in Mexico, knowing he had to act quickly to avoid missing his window of opportunity.


    *Yawn*


    "Do you have any fours?" Ricky asked Alexander, who frowned and slid the card of his own size over to him.


    "Man, you haven''t even gotten a smidge better." Ricky made a snarky comment, causing Alexander to frown even deeper.


    "Your words of discouragement do not quell my fighting spirit in the least."


    "Do you have any three''s?"


    "...." Alexander was speechless, staring at the lone card left in his hand, a three.


    Ricky hesitated before slowly taking the card, though Alexander clung to the edges until it was forcibly pried away.


    "The bitter taste of defeat, we meet again." Alexander sat on the old table while Ricky began shuffling the cards.


    "Another bout?" Ricky asked before Alexander shot right back to his feet.


    "I SHALL!"


    10 minutes later,


    "The bitter taste of defeat, we meet again." Alexander repeated his earlier words like a broken record, collapsing back onto the table in frustration.


    Though it might seem cruel to crush Alexander''s spirit repeatedly, Ricky preferred this over dealing with the smug Alexander who boasted about his victories time and time again.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    "Done." Chester fell back, but Ricky was prepared and easily caught him, while Rockefeller''s eyes remained hazy.


    "Then let''s get out of here." Ricky stood up with Chester in tow as Alexander scurried up his arm and settled on his shoulder.


    "Although you have won this battle, the war-"


    "Yeah I know ''The war is still everlasting as long as I draw breath'' I get it Alexander." Ricky said, knowing what the gerbil would say while walking out the backdoor.


    "Am I-....am I becoming predictable?" Alexander asked, still hesitant, reflecting on how the biggest weakness of a general in war is being predictable, a notion that continues to haunt his persona to this day.


    "Yes." Ricky and Chester were ruthless in their response, causing Alexander to dramatically collapse onto Ricky''s shoulder as he got into the car.


    Sliding down Ricky''s arm, Alexander rolled onto the passenger seat, while Chester hopped into the back.


    "Oh how my mighty self has fallen to the grip of hellish fate sisters-"


    As they drove back, Alexander began his dramatic tirade, but Ricky simply ignored him.


    For a straight hour of driving, Alexander poetically voiced his struggles, while Ricky''s eyebrows twitched in constant irritation.


    "GOD DAMMIT ALEXANDER, SHUT THE F*CK UP!" Ricky lashed out at Alexander, who flinched as Chester cracked one eye open briefly before shutting it again.


    "You dare talk to your master like so? When I was under Aristotle-"


    "You never went out of line and followed whatever he said to the letter, I know BECAUSE YOU ALWAYS SAY THE SAME SH*T!" Ricky yelled, but Alexander merely scoffed, crossing his arms.


    "I do not-"


    "Yesterday, when I missed a shot and you gave me slack for it, I responded with a snarky remark, and you said the same damn thing!" Ricky hit his head on the steering wheel in frustration, while Alexander frowned.


    "You should be grateful to learn from such an excellent general, someone who has carved his name in the annals of history and-" Alexander puffed out his furry chest, raising his paw in a dignified manner.


    "Yes Alexander, you''ve been a great teacher." Ricky interrupted Alexander since these words didn''t simply come out of his ass, but had merit.


    Ricky not only learned from Alexander but also discovered his own ability to acquire skills independently.


    "Beginner Archery" had appeared on his skill list, along with "Beginner Swordsmanship" and "Beginner Spearmanship," though he focused more on practicing archery than the other two.


    However, the biggest takeaway for Ricky was the realization that he could acquire genuine attributes through hard work, rather than through trivial pursuits like impressing women.


    It was purely by accident that Ricky found himself in a bind when Ms. Collins assigned a book report.


    He had never put much effort into his classes, except for hers, driven by his desire to eventually get into her pants by forming a pent-up feeling within her by his touch culminated by a favorable impression.


    Although he slacked off, he managed a B in her class, the only thing holding him back from an A was his poor test-taking skills.


    Ms. Collins, an avid history buff, focused heavily on homework assignments and regularly assigned book reports.


    With everyone suddenly occupied, Ricky was actually forced to handle his own homework for once.


    However, instead of giving up, maybe prompted by the cold streak, he went out of his way to get a decent grade, diving into reading, researching, and writing.


    To his surprise, the effort led to a sudden improvement that left him stunned, particularly when he finished his report on Benedict McCornwick.


    *Ding*


    +1 Intelligence


    Ricky wasn''t surprised by how poor his intelligence stat was compared to his other attributes.


    However, he remained at a loss for how to improve it until now which made him even more aggrieved that it couldn''t be easier to gain like other attributes from the missions.


    Ricky also wondered why he wasn''t improving on the physical front since he effectively trained with Alexander every day.


    But the reason for his stagnation was that Alexander was still trying to develop an effective training regimen to match his evolving physique, which seemed to change every other week.


    "Am I really becoming predictable?" Alexander rubbed his chin as he had thought they were messing with him at first.


    *Sigh*


    "I don''t know Alexander, I just think you should switch it up-"


    *WEOWEOWEO*


    "DAMMIT!" Ricky slammed his steering wheel at the sight of the flashing lights, but instead of stopping, he slammed on the gas.


    There was no one on the back road, and Ricky wasn''t in the mood for common sense as his frustration from Alexander''s incessant blabbering drove him to act even more recklessly than usual.


    "Ricky, you should pull over. Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony." Chester said, since while he was recovering, he had been learning about the customs of this world and had become quite intrigued by its laws.


    In his own words, Chester described American laws as a ''perplexity,'' noting that they seemed straightforward until one observed how those who defined the very terms applied them in such fascinating ways.


    This complexity was why he had become so fascinated with lawyers and the laws in which they twist.


    "Ricky, as I just mentioned, evading the police is a class C felony, punishable by a maxim of five years in prison." Chester tiredly informed Ricky, earning a puzzled look from both him and Alexander.


    "What?" Chester asked, and Ricky glanced at Alexander, who merely shrugged.


    *Sigh*


    "I knew I shouldn''t have given you those stupid law books or whatever they''re called-"


    "''Consolidated Laws of New York'' and it''s not stupid but informative and insightful." Chester defended himself while Ricky checked the rearview mirror, noting that the cop was steadily closing in on their rear bumper.


    "I''m glad I didn''t personally invest in this piece of junk Ford after all." Ricky thought to himself, considering the car a piece of junk.


    However, Ricky shifted his focus to the wheel of the cop car, just as an invisible spike suddenly appeared on the road.


    *POP*


    The tires exploded, causing the cop car to swerve sharply to the right and plummet into a ditch.


    "Attempted vehicular manslaughter is-"


    "Yeah, I get it." Ricky waved his hand at Chester, who peeked over the dashboard.


    As the image faded, Chester clearly saw the cops stumbling out of the wrecked vehicle.


    "In the pursuit of virtue, heedless recklessness is the harbinger of one''s own undoing. For in the reckless abandon of reason, we relinquish the reins of prudence, steering our destiny towards the treacherous cliffs of self-destruction." - Aristotle.


    Alexander quoted one of the many sayings of Aristotle, as the gerbil was a walking encyclopedia of quotes.


    "Uh huh." Ricky didn''t even react, as it seemed like Aristotle had a quote for everything.


    "You should heed my warning, young Ricky: a wise man listens to others, while a foolish man is the one who only talks." Alexander invented the quote on the spot, and Ricky nodded in agreement.


    "That was pretty good, you''re getting better at your quotes." Ricky complimented Alexander who fist pumped and jumped on the leather seat.


    Ricky arrived at the house in the dead of midnight, carrying Chester. As he turned on the lights, he found Lucky frozen mid-action.


    "Pops?"


    "Slick?"


    "..."


    "..."


    "W-What are you doing at this hour?" Lucky quickly put down the cookie and wiped the crumbs from his hands.


    "Me, what are you doing?" Ricky asked as they both stared at each other for a while as if neither wanted to admit their wrongdoings.


    "...."


    "If I turn the light back off, will this conversation go away?" Ricky asked, but before he could get an answer, he slowly reached for the light and turned it off.


    "What was that?" Alexander weirdly asked though Ricky only shrugged, making his way up the spiral staircase.


    "Who knows." Ricky rubbed his eyes as he went through his routine in the bathroom before climbing into bed.


    Chester hopped over to his nest outside the window, a cozy spot he had fashioned for himself.


    Meanwhile, Alexander relaxed in his specially made bed, draped in fine Egyptian cotton sheets.


    Ricky sighed, a sense of foreboding settling over him and despite his apprehension, he covered his face and, eventually, closed his eyes, slipping into REM sleep.


    "F*CK!" Ricky yelled as he found himself in the godforsaken throne room that had been haunting his sleep.


    The room was adorned with serene, elegant features, yet everything paled in comparison to the magnificent golden throne at its center.


    On this throne sat a beautiful woman leaning on her hand, gazing at a man bleeding out on the luxurious floor beneath their feet.


    "You will never win-AHHHHHH!" The man stubbornly spoke before the dagger, impaled into his side, twisted even deeper as a pained screech was let out in response.


    "Oh, must you torture him when we''re conversing?" The woman asked, though a keen ear would detect the hint of annoyance in her tone.


    "I apologize, but chivalry makes me want to vomit." A man sneered as he stepped over his victim, a pool of blood spreading out around him.


    "Where is the ebony-"


    "I''ve already cast it away." The man snickered with a lasting defiance, seeing first hand the woman''s face contort in rage as she stood up.


    *SIGH*


    Ricky simply sat down on the floor with a bored gaze, looking at the tapestry that littered the ceiling without caring for the scene playing out.


    ''I wonder how long it takes to paint all of that?'' Ricky curiously thought, gazing at the subtle carvings.


    At first, Ricky was unsettled by finding himself in this place every time he closed his eyes and now, he had simply grown flat-out bored of it.


    Ricky had tried to wake up and break free of this throne room, however it was no use as he always appeared back.


    Ricky began to amuse himself by trying to catch glimpses under the skirt of the drop-dead gorgeous women in the room.


    However, he quickly grew bored when he realized it was impossible to succeed.


    "You must prevail, you must find the eb-"


    "You must prevail, you must find the ebony blade."


    Ricky''s eyes widened as he noticed that the dying man was always cut off before finishing his words.


    His head whipped to the side, and instead of focusing on the bleeding man, everything around him began to melt away.


    "The what?" Ricky shot to his feet and inquired about the dying man, having never managed to get any further than this before.


    "The cursed blade, the blade that can cut through anything as it slowly corrupts any user and causes a lust for violence, bloodshed, and death." The man prophetically spoke towards Ricky, leaning down and started poking his cheek.


    Ricky didn''t say anything but was surprised to find that he could actually touch the man, his hand not passing through as it usually did.


    "Find the Ebony blade, become its successor, slay the one who wishes for humanity to fall, and save our bloodline from that wretched blade''s curse." The man begged Ricky, but the latter shook his head.


    "Nah, that seems annoying and tiring." Ricky immediately rejected his offer as he gazed around the white space.


    "You cannot run away from your destiny-"


    "I''ve run away from child support, I think I can run away from a stupid sword." Ricky yawned as the man slowly stood to his feet.


    "Descendent, the blade will reach the hands of another one of my descendants who will unleash it upon thousands of innocent souls, you must stop him so that the axis doesn''t tip-" The man spoke in prophetic terms, but Ricky merely shrugged.


    "I''d rather not." Ricky turned around only to see the bloodied man there.


    "This is your fate-"


    "Listen, if it were any other day, I''d go along with whatever the hell this is. But I''m exhausted and fed up with this crappy, vague memory of yours," Ricky scoffed, his frustration mounting as the man grabbed his shoulder.


    "Our blood is connected to the ebony blade, touch its handle and all will be revealed-" The bloodied man stared at his cross, Ricky ignoring his words and following his line of sight.


    "You say that, but you''re staring at the cross, which is weird. Is this cross the reason I keep ending up here?" Ricky asked, and he got his answer when the man hesitated.


    "DESCENDANT IT IS YOUR DESTINY-" The man hurriedly yelled right into Ricky''s ear, but Ricky remained indifferent to the desperate plea.


    Ricky didn''t even let him finish as he grabbed the necklace hanging from his neck and yanked it, his eyes snapping open.


    *GASP*


    "Ugh." Ricky frowned as he hopped out of bed, pulled out his inventory key, and opened the door.


    Then without any care, he then threw the cross into the storage room before isolating the cross in a controlled and safe environment.


    "Now, time for bed." Ricky jumped back into bed and drifted into an undisturbed sleep and hours later, he woke up without the usual cold sweat or gasping for breath.


    Letting out a long, relieved stretch, he felt a newfound sense of peace.


    "Alright, today''s the day, Alexander." Ricky stood up with a happy grin, while Alexander continued to rub his eyes, still waking up.


    "It must have been that damn cross causing this cold streak," Ricky said with a grin, rubbing his hands though Chester and Alexander were unconvinced.


    "Now that it''s gone, it''s time for Ricky to get some." Ricky hopped to his feet, and Chester flew into the room, perching next to Alexander.


    "You seem very sure of yourself." Chester commented with not even a single sliver of confidence and Ricky simply laughed.


    "I know in my very loins that I''m going to taste Maria, I just know it." Ricky fist pumped as he strolled into the bathroom.


    It was questionable whether this was the right decision to make since a sure fire bet would be to encounter someone he''d already done the deed with like Alina.


    However unlike Dolly, Alina was a little looser as he had been slowly easing himself back into her life by sending her varying gifts and or flowers.


    But unlike the others, Ricky had been incredibly patient with Maria and had been tentatively waiting for the day which he assumed would be today.


    After school, they planned to visit a local carnival, and Ricky intended to cap off the evening by taking her to Makeout Point.


    There, he hoped to reap the rewards of his tireless efforts and finally make a woman of Maria.


    As Ricky finished his morning routine, he received a disappointed look from Chester, who subtly felt that Ricky was using Maria.


    Chester had really taken a liking to her, appreciating how Maria showered him with admiration and treated him as the beautiful soul he believed himself to be.


    "Good luck my dear student, shall you feast on the sweet purity of that girl-ow~" Alexander raised a paw in an encouraging tone yet Chetser hit his side with a slight peck.


    "I shall!" Ricky let out a boisterous exclamation as Alexander''s face lit up.


    "HAZA-OW!"


    Walking down the stairs, he saw his father reading the paper and drinking a cup of coffee before he sighed when seeing Ricky.


    "I haven''t even disappointed you today?" Ricky asked as he placed a plate down across from Lucky.


    "You invested all your money into coca cola, really?" Lucky scrunched his eyebrows while Ricky shrugged.


    "I didn''t know any of the other companies on the list you gave me so I picked the only one I knew." Ricky admitted honestly that, despite Lucky providing him with an informative list, he only remembered one item from his past life: Coca-Cola.


    Ricky also attempted to recall any big-name companies, but it was challenging.


    His past life had been mostly spent in dive bars, casinos, illegal gambling dens, and with women, leaving him with limited knowledge.


    But despite this, he was making an effort to at least try and remember anything at all.


    *SIGH*


    "That''s why the list was so informative-nevermind." Lucky was about to say something but decided against it, instead burying his head in the sports catalog.


    "We should buy a sports team." Ricky suddenly spoke up, causing Lucky to lower the paper and raise an eyebrow in curiosity.


    "That''s-........that''s actually a good way to launder money." Lucky was about to say something but then realized he could pamper the books with more people than there were and no one would actually count them.


    "That''s a really good idea." Lucky took out a little notebook and started writing something down before looking back up.


    "Baseball, right?" Lucky asked, but Ricky simply shrugged.


    "Yeah sure." Ricky took a bite of his eggs while Lucky began pondering which team to choose.


    "We can''t strong arm the yank''s since their huge cause of that Babe Ruth, what do you think of the New York Giants?" Lucky asked as Ricky tilted his head.


    "The football team?" Ricky asked, and Lucky tilted his head in response.


    "Football, that crappy sport?" Lucky set down his glasses and gazed at Ricky weirdly.


    "Crappy?" Ricky was also confused until he remembered that he hadn''t heard about football at all.


    "And Baseball isn''t the most boring sport ever?" Ricky retorted but Lucky only gave him a weird look.


    Baseball was enormous here in New York, or at least it seemed to be during this era, since he''d never encountered anyone who didn''t bring it up in conversation.


    "Nevermind." Ricky saw Lucky wasn''t about to budge; he had better things to worry about and Lucky started writing something back down in his notebook.


    "It might cost a pretty penny," Lucky said with a smirk, already deep in thought.


    "But from the rumors I''ve heard about Charles, the owner of the New York Giants, and the American soccer league, I''m confident we could strike a deal." Lucky began mapping out his plans while Ricky rose from his seat.


    "Have fun with your little girlfriend tonight." Lucky didn''t look up from his notebook, but a wry smile crept across his face as he saw Ricky mimic his actions.


    "Oh, I will."


    Ricky enjoyed a pleasant drive to school, the frustration from yesterday completely behind him. He parked his car in a teacher''s spot, unbothered by the stares he drew.


    Whistling a cheerful tune, he turned his gaze to the front entrance, only to let out a deep sigh.


    ''God f*cking dammit.''


    "Betty please, give me a second!" Joseph pleaded desperately, gripping Betty''s arm tightly as his urgency only served to make her eyes well up with tears.


    "You''re hurting me~" Betty whined, trying to break free from Joseph''s grip as she wriggled around without avail.


    Unfortunately for Ricky, Maria had started to fill that void Ruth left in her heart with Betty as their friendship started to form.


    The problem with this was that Joseph literally seethed at the sight of Ricky causing so many annoying interactions between them.


    Ricky hated being dragged into tedious problems that didn''t concern him, but it seemed he couldn''t escape this problem''s grasp no matter how much he fought and resisted.


    "LET GO-AHH~" Betty tried to jerk away from Joseph''s hold, but he let go just as she stumbled backward.


    Both Betty and Joseph''s eyes widened in shock as she began to free-fall down the long staircase.


    *DING*


    [Mission Received: Betty Eagen]


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: C


    Description: Betty Eagan is the youngest daughter of the founder of American cast iron pipe and is the fiance of Joseph. The previous sentence has been used to describe Betty for as long as she can remember. The overshadowing of her other siblings and her fiance''s demanding personality has made her a shy and unapproachable woman who rarely ever talks to other men, at least, until you indirectly caused a rift in their relationship.


    Objective: She''s engaged but there''s no ring so it''s not entirely cheating if you look at it an obtuse way so why not breed her.


    Reward: 50,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once:


    Rewards: 100 Gacha or Betty''s Skills


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnate Betty while she''s still engaged to Joseph(Incomplete):


    Reward: Epic/Rare Coupon


    Impregnate Betty with Joseph in the premises(Incomplete):


    Reward: Epic/Rare Item


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ''Whatever, why not.''


    "Gotcha." Ricky grabbed Betty who went pale in fear, her eyes turning down the long stairway to see not her demise but Ricky''s embrace.


    "You alright?" Ricky asked though once he did, Betty started to ugly cry at the possibility of her falling and hurting herself while Joseph remained frozen.


    *Sigh*


    Ricky helped Betty to her feet before handing her his backpack to which she unconsciously took as Ricky started loosening his shoulder.


    "W-W-W-Wait Ricky-" Joseph immediately snapped out of it as he took two steps back in fear.


    *BAM*


    Ricky socked him right in the face as Joseph almost bent backwards, collapsing onto the ground before Ricky strolled back to Betty and reached for his backpack.


    "Ricky?" Maria asked in a questioning tone, and Ricky froze as he glanced at Maria, then turned his gaze back to the unfolding scene.


    To the passing eye, it looked as if Betty was being robbed by Ricky which didn''t help with the constant whispering around him.


    "It''s not what it looks like I-'''' Ricky immediately started trying to explain as Maria''s lips started to twitch.


    *PFFFT*


    "I know." Maria began to laugh softly as she approached Betty, patting her on the back and offering support as a true friend.


    "I just wanted to tease you~" Maria winked at Ricky who looked surprised at this sudden interaction but wasn''t against it.


    "Tease away my dear sweet Maria-"


    *Sniff*


    "MARIA~" Betty let out a wail, hugging Maria as Ricky''s eyebrow twitched while looking at the wall of Betty form between them.


    ''I should''ve let her fall.'' Ricky forced a smile as he walked to Maria''s side.


    "Are we still up for tonight?" Ricky whispered in a tone that Maria could only hear as she blushed but gave him a reassuring nod.


    "Then I''ll see you later." Ricky backed away while giving her a wink since he didn''t want to be in the vicinity of Betty''s crying.


    Ricky strolled to class, flashing a smile at Ms. Collins, who was already seated at her desk, grading papers.


    "Good morning Ms. Collins." Ricky cheerfully said, her entire body shivering at his sight as her lips instinctively quivered before she immediately regained herself.


    Ricky had been focusing his ''Wet to the touch'' on the tuff cracker that was Ms. Collins as he would constantly use any excuse to touch her.


    It got to the point where by his mere touch, without using the skill, Ms. Collins would start to blush which made Ricky all the more pleased but she wasn''t ripe enough to pick.


    Ms. Collins adjusted her glasses and nodded at Ricky, who took a seat in the front row instead of his usual spot in the back.


    The class went on with Ricky trying to make eye contact with Ms. Collins as she desperately tried to avoid his area of view.


    The entire day, Ricky had purposely paid attention as he had been doing for the past week while trying to answer questions, even the ones he didn''t know weren''t spared as Ms. Collins had no choice to interact with him.


    *RING*


    As the bell rang, students rushed to the door, eager to dive into their Friday plans while Ricky walked over to Ms. Collins.


    "Ms. Collins, I have a question." Ricky leaned down as Ms. Collins tried to make eye contact with him but failed, his eyes greedily scanning her body.


    "Y-Yes Ricky." Ms. Collins nervously adjusted herself as Ricky''s hands slowly placed a piece of paper on her desk.


    "I''d like to make a tutoring session next friday, if that''s alright with you that is?" Ricky smiled warmly at Ms. Collins who hesitated but nodded.


    "I''m free in the morning-"


    "After school is the only time that works for me." Ricky swerved the conversation into his favor as Ms. Collins brought out her appointment book but closed her eyes at the time slot after school.


    "It looks like you''re free." Ricky didn''t even wait for the confirmation and spoke for her before she finally started to write down his name.


    "See you then." Ricky backed up until Ms. Collins looked up, smiling at her before promptly leaving the classroom.


    Ms. Collins stared at the doorway for a while before she took off her glasses and set them down next to her.


    *Thud*


    Then, she slumped onto her desk, hitting her forehead against the stained wood table with a deep sigh.


    Side-eyeing the door, seeing no one was there, she slithered her hands down and under her skirt before her hands had carried a wet spot forming on her white panties.


    ''I''m horrible.''


    After enduring another hour of the tedious Skull and Bones meeting, Ricky found himself mostly watching Maria, who wore a nervous smile throughout.


    As the meeting drew to a close, Ricky couldn''t shake a foreboding feeling.


    Maria was the first to approach him afterward, grabbing his coat with a determined expression.


    "Ricky, about our date." Maria immediately uttered the only words Ricky didn''t want to hear, shattering his previously cheerful mood and leaving him visibly frustrated.


    "Yeah?" Ricky side-eyed Betty on the side with an intense glare as she ducked her head like a scared puppy.


    "Can we have it after you come back from your trip?" Maria asked, and something within Ricky shattered. Maintaining his fake smile felt like the most challenging endeavor of his life.


    "I''m so sorry, and I''m such a bad girlfriend." Maria said in a rush, panic rising as she saw Ricky''s clearly irritated and slightly devastated expression.


    "I promise I''ll make it up to you. I''ll give my everything to make it right." Maria desperately tried to calm him, hoping to ease his frustration.


    "It''s-...it''s fine." Ricky nodded, laughing off his anger that boiled within his very being.


    "It''s because of that bastard Joseph that all of our plans went to sh*t." Ricky decided to swerve the blame onto someone else as Joseph on the side flinched in horror.


    "Woah Ricky, calm down." Henry obviously heard him and Ricky started to laugh.


    "Calm, I''m completely calm." Ricky let out in a murderous tone, gazing towards Joseph who fell out of his seat.


    "Oh Joseph, he''s really going to kill you." Jerry whispered from the side to fan the flames.


    "Ricky I promise I''ll make it up to ten fold~"


    Just as Ricky was about to charge at the frightened Joseph, Maria wrapped her arms around his back, holding him back.


    "Okay." Ricky forced a wide and toothy smile, turning around to take Maria into a kiss.


    Ricky''s aggression was palpable as he seized Maria''s lips with his own, catching her off guard.


    Initially, she stiffened in surprise, but as his passionate kiss deepened, she slowly began to melt into his embrace.


    For the next five minutes, Ricky, oblivious to his surroundings, kissed Maria with a fervent intensity.


    The room became thick with an air of discomfort as their public display of affection continued unabated, leaving those around them feeling increasingly uneasy.


    Letting go, Maria let out steamy breaths as Ricky caressed her cheek with serious blue balls.


    "I''ll see you after my trip, alright?" Ricky walked out of the room with a smile, leaving without saying another word.


    As soon as he was out of sight, his smile faded, replaced by a look of deep frustration while slamming his fist into one of the lockers.


    *BAM*


    In a sudden burst of anger, Ricky''s fist left a print in the wall, the force of his blow echoing his frustration.


    The anger he felt at everything that was happening had coalesced into a furious and reckless expression, his rage now evident in every tense muscle.


    ''F*CK!''

 Chapter 54 - 53: Drunken Frustration

    Chapter 54: Chapter 53: Drunken Frustration


    2 hours later,


    "I had it all planned out, every detail." Rick slurred slightly, his tone edged with anger.


    "But one crybaby b*tch just comes along and ruins it, RUIN''S IT!" Ricky punctuated his words by downing a glass of cheap wine, his frustration palpable.


    For Ricky, wine was his go-to whether he needed to drown a bad mood or elevate a good one.


    It usually lifted his spirits, but tonight, as he drained the glass further and further, his anger lingered just below the surface, refusing to be washed away.


    "It''s nice to see you as well, Slick." Booker laughed heartily from the other side of his cluttered table.


    After Ricky''s plans had been ruined, he decided to get wasted and for reasons he couldn''t quite understand, he found himself in Booker''s cramped apartment instead of drowning his sorrows alone.


    Ricky burst into the room, causing Booker to instinctively rush to shield his wife.


    But when he realized it was Ricky, he relaxed slightly but not for long and before Booker could say a word, Ricky grabbed a bottle of wine stashed away for special occasions and started drinking it without hesitation.


    "Oh sweety, here." Tania felt guilty after Ricky''s confession in the kitchen, so she quietly placed a bowl of grits in front of him, hoping to offer some comfort.


    "Dada, what''s a b*tch." Booker''s youngest son waddled over to him, asking a question that made Booker freeze in place.


    "It''s someone who''s a c*nt." Ricky, slurring his words, drunkenly clarified things to the child before the boy thought about it for a moment, then nodded, seemingly satisfied with the explanation.


    "BUAHAHAHAHAHA!" Louis, Booker''s old man, laughed while opening the door after hearing his words.


    "If it isn''t my favorite white boy himself, how ya doing Slick." Louis heartly walked over to Ricky who stole another sip of wine.


    "Sh*tty and blue balled." Ricky didn''t even hide it as his drunkenness made him entirely blunt.


    "Been there-"


    *Smack*


    "Keep talking." Marie, Louis'' wife, smacked him on the back of the head before huffing off to the kitchen, leaving Louis frowning in her wake.


    "God dammit woman, can''t a man console another man in peace!" Louis yelled, taking a seat at the table with the other two.


    "No sir." Ricky chimed in as Booker sighed.


    "Ahem-" Booker whispered under his breath, and his wife''s ear twitched in response.


    "What!" Tania snapped her head back, making Booker shut his mouth.


    "Wow, these are good." Ricky drunkenly declared as he devoured the grits, Tania smiled at the sight, and Booker let out a relieved sigh at the welcome change of subject.


    *GULP*


    *GULP*


    *GULP*


    "Woah, slow down a bit Slick-" Booker nervously eased Ricky, suddenly started drinking the remainder of the bottle in one fell swoop.


    *BURRRRRRP*


    "Alright, I''m ready to drive~" Ricky stood up, wobbling unsteadily toward the door and Tania shot Booker a worried look as she followed him with her gaze.


    "H-Hey Slick, you''re heading to the club right, let me drive for you as a way of thanking you for all you''ve done for me!" Booker was quick on his feet, determined to prevent Ricky from driving in his condition while Louis also stood up, sensing the urgency of the situation.


    "Yeah kiddo, it''s the least my boy can do for you." Louis spoke up, and Ricky paused, contemplating the suggestion before tossing his keys toward Booker.


    *TINK*


    Instead of handing over the keys, Ricky threw them carelessly against the wall.


    The wine''s effects made everything blur, and Ricky saw double as Booker stared at the keys, momentarily stunned.


    "Let''s go, I''ve got more bottles to chug and a agenda to get my d*ck sucked." Ricky proclaimed, his voice unsteady, as Booker walked over to the keys and followed him out the door.


    "THIS COLD STREAK AIN''T GONNA BREAK ITSELF!" Ricky yelled from the hallway, eager to break this dry spout of his.


    "Youngins these days." Marie sighed as Louis nodded, picking up the paper.


    Meanwhile, Booker drove Ricky''s extremely expensive Ford with the utmost caution, carefully navigating the streets as he tried to keep the situation under control.


    "It always seems like there are more and more homeless people on the streets these days," Ricky commented, pointing to the side as he noticed many Black men and women crowded in the alleyways.


    "Well you know the saying that''s being popularized with people like us ''first fired and the last hired''." Booker let out a nervous laugh, aware that unemployment among Black people had been skyrocketing each year since the Depression.


    "That sucks." Ricky commented on the situation, and Booker nodded with a sad smile, his expression reflecting the weight of the ongoing economic struggles.


    "Indeed Slick, it does." Booker turned the corner, and the wail of police sirens began to fade into the distance.


    "What the f-"


    *WE*


    *WOO*


    *WE*


    *WOO*


    "I''m so sorry Slick I-"


    "Shut up and pull over, I''ll deal with this." Ricky, already in a bad mood, waved Booker''s respectful words away.


    "I swear I was going the speed limit and-"


    "Oh my god Booker, calm down your fine." Ricky rubbed his eyes as Booker started to panic before two cops strolled out of their car.


    "Nice car ya got here." The cop said, tracing his hand alongside the blue paint job until he arrived at the window to see Booker.


    "I-It is-"


    "Feller, did I say you could talk back to me?" The cop scoffed, reaching to his side which made Booker shut his mouth tight.


    "Step out of the car-"


    "What''s your name?" Ricky suddenly asked a question in a drunken slur, causing the cop to turn toward him with an air of arrogance.


    However, as he took in Ricky''s appearance, his expression shifted to one of shock and discomfort, mirroring the stunned look of his partner.


    "Oh my god, M-Mr. Luciano I didn''t mean-" The cop stumbled with his words, recognizing Ricky in a second.


    "Did I say you could talk back to me? Answer the question." Ricky pointed at the cop, who immediately took two steps back from the car, his discomfort evident.


    "I''m officer Richards Sir-"


    "Then if you don''t want to be formerly officer Richards, then you better scram." Ricky scoffed and then turned to his partner, who froze in place at the sight of him.


    "Got it piggy?" Ricky asked, and the portly man coughed nervously, nodding before hastily retreating to his cop car alongside Officer Richards.


    *Snap*


    "Alright, drive." Ricky snapped his fingers, causing Booker to flinch and quickly, he shifted the car into drive and started it up, ready to move on.


    "And for god sakes Booker, stop being such a pussy when I''m around you." Ricky leaned back in his seat, taking a swig of the wine as Booker nodded, taking deep breaths to steady himself.


    "I apologize Mr. Luciano-"


    "Stop calling me that."


    "Slick, I apologize-"


    "Stop f*cking apologizing-you know what? Just shut up and drive." Ricky let out an annoyed sigh and spoke, causing Booker to shut his mouth and continue driving.


    Ricky, simmering in silence and fully immersed in his drunken state, waited until Booker parked the car.


    As soon as they arrived, Ricky stumbled out and headed straight into the club while Booker quickly followed, greeting the staff with a wave before settling himself at the bar.


    "Give me the usual, Buck." Ricky yawned, tapping the bar as Buck smiled and nodded quietly.


    Buck was a recent hire of Ricky, a towering figure standing at 6''5" with a powerful build.


    However Buck was deaf and had been working at a rundown bar where he was overworked/overutilized.


    Ricky had stumbled across him one evening and, impressed by the quality of Buck''s cocktails, offered him a job on the spot.


    Buck was taken aback by Ricky''s offer to double his salary, especially given the difficulty he faced finding work due to his condition.


    Although he could read lips, being a deaf bartender came with its own set of challenges.


    As Buck placed a cocktail in front of Ricky, the latter took a sip, savoring the drink and Buck, already anticipating Ricky''s next request, began preparing another cocktail.


    "F*ck yeah~" Ricky let out a refresh breath, glad that he stumbled upon this refined gem in this age where drinking things neat was the norm.


    ''Rough day boss.'' Buck signed with his hands and thanks to the ring that spoke all languages, Ricky signed back unconsciously.


    Buck could read lips just fine, but Ricky couldn''t help it sometimes since the ring''s translation seemingly took over and he simply did it in the heat of the moment.


    ''Hell yeah.'' Ricky''s comment made Buck cackle with laughter.


    As soon as Ricky finished his previous cocktail, Buck placed another one in front of him with a grin.


    ''Girl troubles?'' Buck asked with a knowing look, and Ricky scoffed but nodded, impressed by how easily Buck had read him.


    ''You read me like a book, Buck.'' Ricky gave an ironic smile, and Buck shook his head.


    ''Only a guess, Boss.'' Buck flattered him, but Ricky didn''t care either way.


    ''How''s the wife?'' Ricky asked, setting down his empty cocktail, only for another to be promptly placed in front of him.


    Buck''s supernatural speed in mixing drinks complemented Ricky''s alcoholism perfectly as the two were shaping up to be good friends.


    ''Loud and demanding, so nothing new.'' Buck joked, causing Ricky to let out a loud laugh as he picked up the glass.


    ''You''re a riot Buck-''


    "Slick!" Jake, hearing that Ricky was in the club, rushed in to converse about Club matters, making Ricky sighed.


    ''Here, go buy your wife and kids something nice.'' Ricky slapped a hundred-dollar bill on the counter, and Buck gratefully accepted it.


    "Alright, lead the way." Ricky wobbled to his feet though didn''t spill a drop of his cocktail.


    "Wait." Ricky suddenly stopped in his tracks as Jake raised and twitched an eyebrow, clearly curious or unsettled by the interruption.


    ''Buck, give me some of the good stuff that I told you to put under the bar in case of a special occasion.'' Ricky let out a sloppy sigh, his hand resting on the bar.


    Buck nodded and reached under the counter, pulling out a small bag filled with powder.


    "You''re the man, Buck!" Ricky snatched the bag of powder from Buck''s hands and pocketed it, yelling with a fervent smile.


    Jake shook his head in response, and Ricky followed him to the office. There, Ricky plopped down in front of a desk buried under towering stacks of papers.


    "Ricky we''ve got a problem-"


    "Can it wait?" Ricky took a sip of the cocktail, while the extremely tired Jake shook his head in exasperation.


    "No Slick, your failing business cannot wait." Jake tiredly remarked, while Ricky downed the last of his cocktail and tossed the empty glass to the side.


    "Well, that''s not good." Ricky said, pulling out the bag of powder filled with an illegal substance, cocaine.


    "Slick this is serious-are you serious?" Jake rubbed his forehead in frustration as Ricky poured some of the cocaine onto the desk, arranging it into lines using Jake''s newly minted business cards.


    "Oh I''m always serious when taking drugs~" Ricky drunkenly slurred out as he started forming three lines.


    "Ricky, I bought the two buildings in different neighborhoods, but the funds only covered the start of construction. All the repairs, including those on the Cotton and Stork Club, have pushed us into the red," Jake informed, plucking a few papers from the stacks as he looked up to see Ricky rolling a dollar bill into a circular tube.


    *SNORT*


    "Holy sh*t!" Ricky, who was originally a little loopy, immediately woke up as he started to become his favorite kind of faded, cross faded.


    "RICKY!" Jake stood up, his expression a mix of palpable worry and simmering anger.


    "I get it, you want to do a line too-"


    "Ricky, you could lose your clubs! If we launder even more money then we''ll raise suspicion-"


    "Oh, who cares~" Ricky waved his hand before positioning his nose for the second line.


    *SNORT*


    "Mother Mary''s tits." Ricky said, rubbing the front of his pearly white teeth, while Jake collapsed back into his seat, overwhelmed.


    "We''re doomed~" Jake covered his face, the exhaustion and stress visibly eating him alive.


    This was his first task assigned by Ricky, and he was determined not to let him down.


    This was why Jake wasn''t delegating tasks but instead trying doing everything himself as he wanted to prove that he was good enough and earn his place.


    Yet, that same tenacity for greatness was eating him up from the inside.


    "Come on Jake, do a line with me." Ricky beckoned over to Jake, drooping his hands down his face.


    "That stuff is bad for you-"


    "So what? We''re all gonna die someday so might as well have fun today." Ricky offered reckless yet encouraging words, but Jake remained unconvinced.


    "Listen, you''re tired right? Well this stuff will make you wide awake." Ricky approached Jake, guiding him gently to the line.


    With practiced ease, he handed the wary, barely eighteen year old a rolled-up dollar.


    "It does?" JJake hesitated, his exhaustion gnawing at him despite the tasks still looming ahead.


    "Oh yeah, it wakes you up real good, heightens the senses." Ricky smiled and patted Jake''s shoulder reassuringly.


    Jake hesitated for a moment but eventually accepted the rolled-up dollar, positioning it carefully right before the line.


    "Now, sniff it up with your nose." Ricky gave Jake''s back another reassuring pat as Jake nodded, his movements slow and deliberate as he positioned the rolled-up dollar against his right nostril.


    *Snort*


    "Ow, ow, ow!" Jake immediately clenched his nose in pain, only snorting up half the line as he backed up.


    Then as he looked up, his pupils dilated as his once hazy and tired gaze turned into an energetic and sharp one.


    "Woah." Jake whispered, his mind as sharp as a blade which made Ricky laugh erratically while picking up the rolled up piece of paper.


    "Oh Jake, we''re just getting started."


    1 hour later,


    "Wow, WOW!" Jake was speeding through the paperwork as Ricky set up another line.


    *SNORT*


    "WOOOO!" Ricky let out an excited yell as he pumped his arms into the air.


    "I''m gonna list possible names for our new night clubs and you tell me if they make the cut!" Ricky started pacing back and forth energetically while Jake nodded vigorously from the side.


    "Got it, got it!" Jake''s smile widened as everything became remarkably clear to him as he breezed through the papers with an ease that made tasks that usually took him ages feel effortless.


    "Moonlit Madness"


    "No."


    "Galactic Groove."


    "God no."


    "Twilight Twist."


    "Nope."


    "Velvet Veil."


    "Oh, that''s good." Jake finally looked up and Ricky clapped his hands as the image showed itself to him.


    "Alright, alright, alright alright, alright alright alright, alright alright alright, alright listen to this!" Ricky rubbed his nose, then his pearly white teeth before looking at Jake with a serious gaze.


    "We make it like the stork club but instead of a dining restaurant, it''s a snazzy lounge for the upper class, no food only drinks and cigars, with some light entertainment." Ricky clapped his hands together, his approval evident as the idea took shape and spread out.


    "It''ll be membership based which is where we''ll make the bulk of the doe."


    "And it''s saved." Jake enthusiastically wrote it down as Ricky started pacing around while thinking about the next club''s name.


    "Now the next club." Ricky jumped up and down, feeling better than ever at this moment.


    "You ready?!" Ricky looked back, Jake already filling out three forms and holding up a thumbs up to him.


    "Velvet Vibes"


    "No."


    "Midnight Mirage"


    "Wrong."


    "Eclipse Lounge"


    "Too sissy."


    "Neon Nocturne"


    "What the f*ck-"


    "Stardust Haven"


    "NO!"


    "Electric Eden"


    "NO!"


    "The Moonlit Grove"


    "DAMMIT NO!"


    "Twilight Pulse"


    "DAMMIT SLICK, WHAT ARE WE DOING!" Jake yelled in anger, none of these names fitting the design they desired.


    "WAIT, JUST A FEW MORE!" Ricky yelled back, rubbing his forehead before snapping his fingers.


    "Radiant Rhythm"


    "NO!"


    "Luminous Lounge"


    "NO!"


    "Celestial Beat"


    "NO!"


    "Pulse Paradiso"


    "NO!"


    "Mirage Nights"


    "NO!"


    "The Vortex"


    "NO!"


    "Mystique Lounge."


    "YES, THAT''S IT!" Jake stood up, both of them jumping up and down in celebration.


    "Alright for the Mystique room we''ll make a club though unlike the Cotton Club, you''ll have to pay an entry fee to even enter." Ricky waved his finger, and Jake responded with vigorous nods, his enthusiasm matching the gesture.


    "This''ll be good. Attendance has dwindled recently, even after I made a white only day, but this should integrate those lost numbers back." Jake informed Ricky, who dumped some more cocaine onto the desk, before making a line.


    *SNORT*


    "I-I just got to dance." Ricky jerked his head up, feeling the tingling sensation in his entire body before he suddenly bolted for the door leaving Jake all alone.


    Ricky had left half of the bag on the desk and as Jake looked up, he saw no sign of Ricky, only the bag of cocaine.


    Hesitating, Jake bit his lip before taking the bag and stashing it in his drawer as he then continued with the paperwork.


    Meanwhile, Ricky made his way toward the all-white crowd, who were dancing to Booker''s blues.


    The disbandment of the whites only policy left many patrons angry. While the influx of Black clientele made up for the loss, Jake still wanted to regain the high-paying white customers who couldn''t afford the Stork Club.


    To address this, he designated Fridays as whites-only nights and Sundays as Black-only nights, which somewhat quelled the discontent but it was a temporary fix.


    Surveying the battlefield, Ricky''s eyes swept alongside the crowd as he got in tune with the rhythm.


    Honestly, Ricky was looking for a quick fix, searching for either a girl dancing vigorously all alone or a dispute between an already functioning couple.


    "Ugh, sometimes Danny I swear!" A girl yelled at her boyfriend Danny, catching him dancing with another woman.


    ''Eye of the tiger, eye of the tiger.'' Ricky rubbed his hands together, knowing that this was the day he put it all behind him.


    Ricky slowly went to cut off this girl trying to leave while her boyfriend chased after her, trying to explain the reasoning behind his actions.


    "Hey gorgeous, I know this is sudden but could I have your hand for a dance?" Ricky asked, the girl scrunching her eyebrows until she side-eyed her boyfriends hateful glare.


    "Hey fella, that''s my girl-" Danny couldn''t even finish his sentence before Ricky pushed him aside, his gaze still fixed on the girl who responded with a smiling nod.


    "Mary Lou." Mary smiled, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush as she extended her hand toward Ricky and with a graceful gesture, Ricky took her hand and pressed a gentle kiss to it.


    Mary was slender and petite, standing out in sharp contrast to the other women dancing around her.


    Though she was thinner than most, it was her hazel eyes that truly set her apart as they shimmered with an intensity that drew attention, even amidst the dancing crowd.


    Her brown hair, soft and silky, framed her face as it gently cascaded down just above her neck.


    She wore a simple blue floral dress, adorned with a few patches that seemed hand-stitched.


    These small repairs, rather than detracting from her appearance, added a unique charm, accentuating her delicate physique and giving her an air of quiet elegance.


    *DING*


    [Mission Received: Mary Lou]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: D+


    Description: Mary is someone who is looking for a good time which is why she accepted the date request of a man who''d been holding to ask her out for the longest time.


    Objective: Make her a mother and breed her ass into oblivion.


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once(Incomplete):


    Rewards: 50 Gacha or Mary Lou''s skills


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Knock Mary up in the vicinity of her date(Incomplete):


    Reward: Rare Weapon Coupon


    Impregnante Mary with her first ever time(Incomplete)


    Reward: +4 Charm


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ''Oh yeah.''


    "Ricky." Ricky introduced himself, pulling Mary close before his smile snaked up even further than before.


    ''Wet to the touch.''

 Chapter 55 - 54: Drunken F*cking Frustration (R18)

    Chapter 55: Chapter 54: Drunken F*cking Frustration (R18)


    8 minutes later,


    "Ha~"


    "Ha~"


    "Ha~"


    Meanwhile in the bathroom, one of the stalls was shaking vigorously as a seven magnitude earthquake was being unleashed upon Mary''s innocent pussy.


    Mary''s soft humming filled the small bathroom stall as her bare nipples brushed against the cool surface of the door.


    Each powerful thrust from Ricky sent a ripple through her back, the impact resonating deep within her as he drove into her waist.


    Ricky pinned her hands against the door with one hand, while his other gripped her small waist, holding her firmly in place.


    With each thrust, he plunged into her, the delicate folds that once seemed a work of art now reduced to a wet, stretched mess beneath his relentless pace.


    "Ruin me, ruin me~" Mary''s voice hummed out as a broken record, her freakiness clawing its way out in the midst of this mind numbing pleasure.


    *Slap*


    ''What a freak.'' Ricky smiled, slapping her ass lightly as a pink hand print formed, her delight evident from the intent shivering.


    ''It''s like she''s sucking me in.'' Ricky lamented, tightening his grip on her waist as he pushed the tip of his cock even deeper into her.


    "Oooooooooooooooooo~" Mary''s mind shattered at his neck action, Ricky''s cock breaking down the last remnants of her sanity, pushing her beyond the brink of control.


    *THUD*


    *THUD*


    *THUD*


    The sharp sounds of Mary''s body colliding with the stall door grew louder, her form going limp as the only thing filling her thoughts was the constant ravishing of Rick.


    Her mind had essentially slipped into a subconscious autopilot, leaving her with a dazed, drooling smile as his tip repeatedly kissed the deepest part of her womb.


    "O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-" Mary tried to slur out a moan, desperate to voice her pleasure, but each time she began, Ricky''s cock slammed into her pussy, sending jolts of electricity through her body that cut her off and forced her to start over.


    Mary had become a complete mess under Ricky''s relentless advances as what had started as an attempt to make her boyfriend jealous had unknowingly scarred her pleasure receptors for the future.


    Now taking the full force of Ricky''s pent-up frustration, Mary couldn''t even finish a moan without his relentless thrusts interrupting her, each one threatening to stretch her beyond her limits.


    With each thrust, her ass smacked against his hips, her knees wobbling as they threatened to give out, but Ricky''s firm grip kept her upright.


    Gritting his teeth, Ricky increased his pace, the sound of her wet folds being ravaged by his pulsating cock echoing through the bathroom stall, sending Mary''s eyes rolling back as she began to squirt uncontrollably.


    The sloppy sounds of her wet, mangled pussy grew louder with each uncontrollable squirt, filling the room with a heady, lustful scent.


    The smell was pungent, a thick fog forming as their mingled odors clung to the air, coating the windows with the musk of their relentless exchange.


    The dense aroma of lust filled the bathroom, the sharp fragrance of her wet pussy mingling with the steamy echoes of Ricky relentlessly punishing her cunt, loud enough for even the public to hear.


    Her specially brewed love tonic dripped down the inside of her thighs, seemingly endless as every time Ricky rammed his hips forward, a fresh spray of liquid responded.


    The tip of his cock drove deeper and deeper into her being until, with one final thrust, Ricky reached his limit.


    Ricky''s tip, the part of him that relentlessly ravaged Mary, had all but transformed her womb into his personal playhouse, reshaping her from the inside out.


    Then with one final motion, leaning his everything into her, Ricky tip slammed against her womb''s walls as it madly twitched.


    Mary oozed out a moan that matched the flood of white liquid being dumped into her, filling her womb with a thick, creamy load that splashed and soaked her insides in a milky white array.


    "Oooooooooooooooh~" Mary oozed out a moan that matched the flood of white liquid being dumped into her, filling her womb with a thick, creamy load that splashed and soaked her insides in a milky white array.


    "Holy sh*t~" Ricky grunted, feeling Mary tighten around him, as if she were milking him for every last drop, and he gladly complied.


    Slowly, he filled her womb to the brim, the pulsing heat of his release spreading through her, soothing her stomach with its warmth.


    Mary gasped for breath, her eyes rolling back into her skull while her tongue hung out to dry as drops of saliva drooled down.


    "AH~"


    Only after she caught her breath did she release an intense moan, the pleasure overwhelming her senses.


    Her mind short-circuited from the intensity, going blank as the neural pathways snapped and reformed to handle the never ending strain of the pleasure induced by Ricky.


    "F*ck~" Ricky let out a satisfied curse, reveling in the pleasure of filling her with his cum while still completely cross faded.


    The sensation of being overwhelmed by the intensity faded, leaving him immersed in the afterglow of his release.


    "Woah there~" Ricky whispered into her ear, seeing Mary''s body about to collapse in on itself only for it to be pulled back up in the next second.


    "T-T-Too much~" Mary could only muster these two words as she felt the scorching hot feeling overwhelm her belly.


    "Oh sweet Mary Lou, we''re just getting started." Ricky kissed her neck, changing her position so that her back was now facing the bathroom stall while completely ensnared into his embrace.


    Holding her thighs, Ricky adjusted himself as Mary''s head rested gently on his shoulder, her breath coming in heavy pants directly into his ear, her exhaustion evident.


    ''T-This wasn''t supposed to happen.'' Mary thought to herself, initially intending only to make her boyfriend jealous.


    She was so consumed by the heat of revenge that she hadn''t anticipated what would happen next.


    Everything became a blur when Ricky came into view, seeing him as an effective means of fulfilling her desire, only to become putty in his hands, her legs nearly giving out at his mere touch.


    That''s when everything veered from its original intention and Mary found herself going along with whatever Ricky desired, ultimately ending up in the club''s grimy bathroom stall.


    "You ready?" Ricky whispered with a drunken chuckle, breaking his cold streak yet still feeling unfulfilled despite it all.


    "I-EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" Mary wanted to say something, anything, but her thoughts were overwhelmed by another wave of pleasure.


    Ricky pulled back, his cum rapidly trying to flow out of her stretched womb before he thrust hard back in, his tip sealing off the only escape for his release.


    Mary gasped for air, inhaling his scent as a pink glow suddenly appeared within her irises, her body shivering as any thought of something other than fulfilling her pleasure was instantly quashed.


    "HA~" Mary moaned loudly as her legs, which had been flopping previously, tightened around his waist.


    Her arms grabbed Ricky''s back, her nails seeking to dig through his shirt and into his skin yet the fabrics held them at bay.


    Clenching tightly, Mary squeezed down on him with all her might, hoping to halt Ricky''s relentless movements, but instead, it only fueled his eagerness.


    The warmth and the tight grip of her pussy only drove Ricky deeper into a lustful madness, forcing himself to speed up his movements.


    *THUD*


    *THUD*


    *THUD*


    The bathroom stall rattled continuously as the door hinges struggled to withstand the force of his thrusts.


    The relentless strain of his actions caused Mary to lose control over other parts of her body, making her shoes flop off and her toes curl tightly.


    "Ah~"


    "AH~"


    "AH!"


    Throughout this mind-altering experience, Mary''s voice suddenly came alive and despite the strain becoming familiar, it only resulted in her moaning louder.


    Ricky, lost in his own narcissism, closed his eyes and savored the warmth and sloppy grip enveloping his cock.


    He pushed himself deeper into Mary, who could only clench tighter and express even more pleasure in response.


    Mary remained in a daze, her mind consumed by the overwhelming sensations coursing through her body as Ricky completely devoured her whole.


    Their bodies pressed together in a desperate, standing embrace as Ricky''s hand squeezed her small, perky ass tightly.


    Mary could only arch into him, meeting his thrusts with equal fervor as the stall filled with the sounds of their ragged breathing and the rhythmic thud of their bodies colliding.


    The door rattled violently, its hinges coming loose as a screw fell beside Ricky, but he didn''t flinch.


    Leaning forward, the surroundings seemed to swirl from the high, the only thing anchoring him to reality being the tight embrace of Mary''s pussy.


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    Ricky''s thrust evolved into a hungry and crazed state, losing himself while digging his head into Mary''s neck without any regard for the poor girl having to take all of him repeatedly.


    Pressing his entire body into Mary, he forcefully claimed her insides as if leaving no place unconquered, ramming his cock with the sole aim of reaching an even tighter place.


    "URGH!" Ricky let out one more grunt, punishing Mary''s pussy with one more thrust as he put all his strength into it.


    *BAM*


    The door hinges gave out, collapsing backward with the two of them as Mary hit the ground as Ricky fell on top of her, driving even deeper into her.


    *GASP*


    In that moment, Ricky''s cock slammed against the very depths of her womb, reaching the deepest point and pushing even further.


    Cum, spiraling out from the tip of his cock, once again flooded her insides as she lost all the breath to moan and silently took it all in.


    In a convulsing orgasm, Mary could only cling to Ricky as he arched above her, gazing at the ceiling with a refreshed smile while a window hovered above them.


    [Mission Received: Mary Lou]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: D+


    Description: Mary is someone who is looking for a good time which is why she accepted the date request of a man who''d been holding to ask her out for the longest time.


    Objective: Make her a mother and breed her ass into oblivion.


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once(Complete):


    Rewards: 50 Gacha or Mary Lou''s skills


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Knock Mary up in the vicinity of her date(Complete):


    Reward: Rare Weapon Coupon


    Impregnante Mary with her first ever time(Complete)


    Reward: +4 Charm


    Bonus Missions:


    Stretch Mary''s womb(Complete):


    Reward: 25,000 IP


    Make Mary climax with your creampie(Completed)


    Reward: +4 Appearance


    ???????????????????


    Looking down, Ricky saw that Mary was completely unconscious as he frowned and tapped her cheek but received no response, only the sight of her ragged, sloppy breaths.


    Pulling out, he followed with a final spurt of cum that splashed out from her stretched lips, pooling below her.


    Stretching, he glanced at the mission window while buckling his pants and nodded at the rewards of this one-night stand.


    Mary sat bare on the bathroom stall door, leaking the remnants of his cum with a dumb smile as she took her first step into the beauty of motherhood.


    Rubbing his eyes, his hazy vision gazed at the hazy Mary to which the system classified as ''easy'' though didn''t feel bad but thought of something.


    ''You know what, I want to see the skills option instead of gacha.''


    *DING*


    [Skills Received from Mary Lou:


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Knitting: Your ability to knit is as good as the average knitter.


    [Culinary arts has evolved.]


    (Epic Skill) Expert Culinary Arts: Expert level in the culinary causes the advances in cooking and food preparation, including knowledge of various cuisines, cooking techniques, flavor combinations, and presentation skills.


    (Uncommon Skill) Beginner Teaching: You are able to instruct anyone on the basic area of expertise.


    Ricky squinted at the shotty skills, his vision blurred by a haze of alcoho as his scowl deepened as he surveyed the meager rewards, disappointment etched across his face.


    "Are you kidding me right now?" Ricky slurred out, yet the system didn''t respond and sideyed the girls with poor skills.


    ''Whatever, receive the other rewards.''


    *HUFF*


    Ricky exhaled sharply, stumbling out of the broken stall and bracing himself on the sink, before lifting his gaze.


    "Ha~" Ricky let out a breath of contempt, the pain decreased as he gazed at his superhuman appearance.


    "God dammit, I just can''t stop being so goddamn good looking." Ricky''s voice dripped with slurred arrogance as he gazed at his newly refined face, now possessing an almost superhuman perfection that could only be seen in stories.


    *Sigh*


    "Well, good luck." Ricky drunkenly saluted to the dazed Mary as she took her first steps towards being a single mother, strolling away from the responsibilities and out of her life without any shame.


    Maybe in the future Ricky would double back to this encounter, but as of now, Ricky was in no place to properly take hold of responsibility and opted to simply continue on his way.


    "THE COLD STREAK IS OVER BABY!" Ricky emerged from the employee bathroom, which had been closed for cleaning, and let out a triumphant cheer.


    ''I should congratulate myself with another drink.'' Ricky thought in his cross faded haze, stumbling back into the club.


    Since even with that delightful encounter, Ricky''s thirst wasn''t yet clenched as he walked towards the bar.


    "Are you deaf, I ordered a martini with TWO cherries and you have me-"


    "Aye Buck, give me three shots of whatever will keep this buzz raging." Ricky shoved the unhappy customer aside, his focus unwavering, while Buck nodded quickly and went straight to fulfill his boss''s request without delay.


    "Did you not see me-" The man angrily tried to intimidate Ricky, only to have his attempt met with a physical response.


    *BAM*


    The man attempted to refute, but the drunken menace that was Ricky remained indifferent and without hesitation, Ricky delivered a solid punch to the man''s mouth, sending him crashing to the ground.


    Slowly, Buck lined up shot after shot in front of Ricky, who downed them as quickly as Buck poured them.


    "Ywuor a lives saviory Buck~" Ricky was seeing triple now, the world around him starting to get increasing blurry.


    "YOU DARN HOOLIGAN!" The man scrambled back to his feet and readied himself for a fight, putting on a pair of brass knuckles.


    ''Uh oh.'' Buck sighed, slowly stepping away as Ricky tilted his head while seeing a 1930s square up right in his midst.


    "Put ''em up, put ''em up I say!" The man encouraged, shuffling side to side while Ricky tried to lock onto his real figure.


    "Eenie meenie miney moe," Ricky muttered, trying to decide which of the triples to hit..


    *BAM*


    Ricky was punched, but his chin didn''t even flinch as the man''s eyes widened in horror as Ricky, unfazed, seized him by the collar.


    "Gotchu~" Ricky let out a relieved sigh, winding up his arm while the man trembled in place from his mere grip.


    *BAM*


    *THUMP*


    A single solid punch from Ricky was all it took to knock the lights out for the random joe as he crumpled to the ground almost instantly, sprawled out on the club floor.


    Looking around, Ricky saw that the party had come to a halt because of his altercation, with even Booker pausing his singing to sigh in his direction.


    Realizing the event was effectively ruined and someone had gone to call the police, Ricky huffed, downed another shot, and then turned to Buck.


    "Uh Buck, there''s a gal who needs a cleanup, send someone there." Ricky decided to adopt a more gentlemanly demeanor, causing Buck''s eyes to widen as he suddenly remembered that his boss had taken a girl and without hesitation, Buck quickly went to follow Ricky''s order.


    Ricky wobbled out onto the street in the next moments, feeling relieved that the dry spell was over but still carrying a deep-seated frustration from it being so prolonged.


    The liquor had only added to his sour mood as he fumbled with his keys, his irritation palpable.


    "Come on." Ricky fumbled with the lock of the driver''s side door until he finally managed to get it open and stumbled into the car, heavily under the influence.


    Without hesitation, he floored the accelerator, but the tires spun wildly in place, smoke billowing up as the rubber ground against the road.


    Confused, Ricky looked around to find the problem and quickly realized the car was still in park and with a groan, he shifted it into drive and finally got the car moving.


    "Reverse." Ricky nodded to himself, finally putting the car in reverse and without warning, he slammed into a random bumper in front of him, the jolt of the collision rattling through the vehicle.


    *BAM*


    "That''ll buff out." Ricky slurred out, looking back to see the massive dent on the car but uncaring as he sped off.


    Driving down the street, it was a miracle he managed to reach his intended spot in one piece.


    He arrived at a seemingly random house in Harlem as he parked the car in a prime spot that was the sidewalk.


    Stumbling toward the stairs, Ricky banged his head against the gate, only realizing it was there after the impact as he shook off the daze and decided to climb over it.


    Falling onto the ground, he crawled to his feet and finally managed to get to the doorstep.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    Ricky leaned against the doorway for support and waited impatiently for the owner to answer and when the door finally swung open, it revealed an annoyed Madame.


    "Oh for f*cks sake." Madame scoffed after seeing the mess that entirely made up Ricky.


    "You, me, and this bottle of mint scented lotion. What do you say?" Ricky drunkenly said his pick up line, pulling the lotion out of his inventory as Madame stared blankly at him.


    Then, only minutes later, she started hysterically laughing before she slammed the door in his face.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    The door opened, revealing Dolly while Ricky, having apparently blacked out, had somehow ended up at her doorstep.


    "Ricky?" Dolly said confusedly, hiding her body behind the door as Ricky smiled while leaning on the doorway.


    "You, me, and this bottle of mint scented lotion. What do you say?" Ricky said as he had a weird sense of deja vu.


    "Oh Ricky I-...it''s just a really bad time right now-.....and I still need some space." Dolly, somewhat panicked, slowly began closing the door in Ricky''s face as he sighed in resignation.


    Determined to convince her, Ricky started to knock again, but before he could make any headway, he blacked out and found himself knocking on a completely different door.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    ''What the-'' Ricky realized that he was at a different door only to see it crack open.


    "R-Ricky?" Alina opened the door and widened her eyes in surprise at Ricky''s disheveled appearance.


    "Hey beautiful." Ricky pushed his way through the door but stumbled and fell face-first onto the floor.


    "Are you okay?" Alina rushed to his aid as Ricky, still on the floor, nodded at her before turning his gaze toward her.


    Alina was in her nightwear, her robe slightly ajar, revealing glimpses of her luscious curves as the soft fabric clung to her body, accentuating her form as she moved swiftly to help Ricky.


    "Mmmmm~" Ricky pulled Alina closer, burying his face into her neck as his hands, unsteady and roaming, traced over her body.


    "God, I missed this." Ricky lamented, boldly feeling Alina up and relishing in the curves this woman possessed.


    "Ricky~" Alina moaned as Ricky''s hands explored her body, his touch becoming increasingly assertive.


    He found his grip on her firm, rounded ass, squeezing and molding it with a rough, almost possessive intensity.


    "I was thinking about you all day." Ricky said the first bullsh*t line that came to him as he started kissing her tender neck.


    "M-Me too." Alina whispered as she felt as if she couldn''t say no to Ricky even if she tried.


    However there was a problem weighing on her mind though before she could confess it, Ricky pulled her up into the air.


    "Eep!" Alina squeaked in a panic, all the while Ricky made his way towards a room before dropping Alina on its bed.


    Throwing her rob to the side, Ricky saw his five star meal layed out right in front of him as he started unbuckling his pants.


    "I-I-I need to tell you something-"


    "Don''t worry, I won''t be gentle." Ricky let out a mischievous smile as he pulled down his pants, his thick cock resting just above her mature pussy, which was marked by hints of black pubic hair.


    "I''m late!" Alina screamed out in a panicked whisper, covering her face with a horrified expression.


    Over these past three weeks, Alina hadn''t been keeping Ricky at arm''s length out of disinterest but in reality, it was quite the opposite.


    Ricky made her feel things, both internally and externally, that no one, not even her deceased husband, ever had.


    To Alina, it felt as if Ricky saw her for who she truly was, rather than just the mother everyone always portrayed her as.


    However, it was her own mind that kept her at a distance as she grappled with the fear that Ricky wouldn''t want to be with an older woman like herself.


    She worried that revealing her feelings might lead to consequences for him similar to those she had experienced with her late husband, potentially ruining his life as well.


    "So what, I''ll take care of you." Ricky, barely coherent, slurred out words Alina hadn''t anticipated, aligning himself with her mature folds as he drunkenly bit his lips.


    "Tasting you is bliss and your body just drives me crazy, I don''t think I''ll ever let you go to be honest." Ricky, his voice slurred but earnest, confessed that Alina''s body was surreal to him.


    After enduring a prolonged cold streak, he was determined to see her more often, marking this as the beginning of his repeated visits towards what should have been one night stands.


    "Really?" Alina started tearing up with a smile, since when she took a pregnancy test and found out she was pregnant, her biggest fear was Ricky abandoning her.


    In this day and age, mistresses were not uncommon and the dynamics of modern relationships often made it easier for women to accept being a side piece of men of high status.


    In the 1930s, societal norms around relationships were quite different from today. Mistresses, or women in extramarital relationships with men, were not uncommon.


    The dynamics of relationships at that time often made it easier for women to accept being a "side piece," as it were.


    Marriage was often seen as a more pragmatic arrangement, focused on stability, family, and societal expectations rather than romantic love.


    As a result, both men and women sometimes sought emotional or physical fulfillment outside of their primary relationships, and this was often accepted or overlooked to maintain appearances or social status.


    "Ha~" Alina suddenly moaned out, feeling Ricky plunge inside her while leaning all of himself into her.


    Her legs slowly wrapped around Ricky as Alina welcomed the impending pounding with a relieved smile.


    Her hands nestled Ricky''s face, pulling his drunken sleazy smile closer before their lips slowly met.


    Ricky was sloppy at first due to the drunken influence, but Alina''s sincerity bridged the gap, transforming the moment into a beautiful intertwining of their bodies.


    What was meant to be a small yet mundane part of their exchange evolved into an intense moment of passion, actively prolonged by the two of them.


    Ricky seemed entranced by the sincerity and love Alina showered upon him, losing himself in her touch as they gradually broke away.


    They looked at each other for a long time, Alina''s warm smile illuminating Ricky''s view as she stretched out her arms and wrapped them around his neck.


    Feeling genuinely embraced by the blatant display of affection, Ricky moved to her large, soft breasts, sucking on one nipple while his free hand aggressively played with the other.


    It was as if his mind was wired to match her blatant affection with a corresponding feeling of pleasure rather than show his own.


    As he found his rhythm, he unconsciously swayed his hips in a gentle manner, rather than taking an aggressive approach.


    "Ah~" Alina''s hands slowly slid into Ricky''s hair, savoring his scent that she loved as she clenched her fingers tightly.


    Ricky moved his hips back, feeling her grip, and slowly eased his cock back into her folds, fully enveloping her.


    "AH~" Alina felt Ricky''s cock gently enter her, she let out an even more invigorated moan as the passion of his actions seemed to amplify the pleasure of the moment.


    "Mom?"


    **Just then, a tired Marco opened his door and asked a question, while Alina froze, gritting her teeth as she felt Ricky continue his movements.**


    "G-Go back to bed-mmmm~" Alina tried to speak but could only feel Ricky''s cock filling her once more.


    Overwhelmed by a surge of pleasure, her eyes rolled back, and before she could moan out, she bit down on Ricky''s shoulder.


    Marco had misunderstood Alina, believing she cried at night to avoid alarming their youngest children but deep down, he was aware of the real reason behind her tears.


    "Okay ma." Marco whispered before closing the door with a sad look, completely misinterpreting the situation.


    "Where''s the milk?" Ricky, in a drunken haze, asked as he found his rhythm, looking up while still holding her meaty breasts.


    Alina''s body moved in sync with his actions, finding a rhythm alongside his unsteady thrusts.


    Her curvaceous figure began to glisten with sweat, and her pussy started to secrete a stream of love nectar at Ricky''s behest.


    "Ricky~" Alina embarrassedly whined, not minding the stench of alcohol radiating off of him.


    "I won''t produce milk until at least another two months~" Alina unknowingly whispered seductively in his ear, compelling Ricky to move his entire face back to her voluptuous breasts.


    "Then I guess I''ll practice until then." Ricky reassured himself, his tongue circling around her left nipple before his lips locked onto it.


    As Alina''s head slammed against the bed as if trying to inch away before Ricky collapsed on top of her, fully committing to their intimacy.


    His veiny cock slid through her wet folds, which yielded to his every desire as love juices continuously flowed, reaching the very end and staining the bed beneath them.


    Alina felt Ricky''s cock fill her completely, but she never complained or asked for anything.


    All she desired was Ricky''s arms wrapped firmly around her, holding her close and providing her with a sense of warmth as that was enough for Alina.


    Deep down, Alina knew she''d never be Ricky''s wife, but as long as she wasn''t forgotten, she was willing to give him all of herself.


    She embraced him completely, her body attuned to his every whim and responding to his desires.


    Love juices began to slowly squirt from her wet folds, staining the sheets below while marking their passionate exchange.


    "AHHH~" Alina felt a sudden rush overwhelm her, her insides flooding with the fervor of her honeyed nectar, gushing out with intense pleasure.


    That ecstatic feeling, the same one she only experienced when Ricky had his way with her, washed over her like a powerful tsunami.


    A haze settled over her subconscious, yet the pleasure persisted; even as she climaxed, Ricky didn''t stop.


    His movements only temporarily slowed down to converse with her but now that he was focused on the act of their bodies constantly contracting and colliding, he started to ramp up his motion.


    Speeding up his pace, Ricky''s mouth finally released for her nipple as he looked over Alina who had completely lost herself to the feeling of his cock.


    Placing his hands on either side of Alina, he used them for leverage to quicken his pace though not in such a rough manner, warning to watch as Alina twitched and let out a sultry moan.


    "Ah~" Alina was putty in Ricky''s hands, her eyes closed as she let out gentle moans, which drove him wild at the sight of her surrendering completely to his touch.


    Her head swayed right and left, back and forth across the bed sheets as she twisted and turned to Ricky''s tune.


    Ricky''s cock twitched uncontrollably, his thrusts slowly speeding up as he clenched his teeth, culminating in one final thrust.


    "Urgh." Ricky let out a grunt, driving his entire being into that final thrust as his cock released load after load of cum.


    "AHHHHH~" Alina screamed out in complete ecstasy, the scorching sensation being the final touch that released the built-up tension within her, leading to an intense orgasm.


    Ricky didn''t move aside but simply collapsed on top of her, his face nestled between her ample breasts.


    As he felt the warm, soft cushion of her chest, he slowly closed his eyes, his cock still deeply embedded in Alina''s now-wet and cum-filled pussy.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Alina let out ragged breaths, struggling to recover from the last orgasm as exhaustion took over.


    She closed her eyes, only to slowly awaken to the morning chirps outside the window, eventually opening them groggily.


    "Ricky?!" Alina anxiously moaned, her body twitching as Ricky''s hard cock continued to press against the sensitive spot as she shivered, pressing her lips close to his ear as she whispered softly.


    "Ricky." Alina whispered softly, her lips brushing against Ricky''s ear as the sound stirred him, causing his eyelids to flutter open.


    "Huh?" Ricky slowly lifted his head from between her breasts, his hazy eyes gradually focusing on the sight of a flushed Alina.


    "Marco and Sofia will wake up any moment and-"


    "You look so sexy in the morning." Ricky flashed a charming smile as Alina bit her lip before he stood up slowly, though his cock remained enveloped by her folds.


    "God, how did I luck out on a girl like you." Ricky mused to himself, slightly petting her shaven pussy though he could still see the black roots taken hold.


    "Ricky we can''t~" Alina covered her face, her elbows squeezing her breasts together as Ricky''s eyes formed into crescent moons.


    The bed rocked gently for the next ten minutes, and a muffled moan eventually emerged from the room, signaling another climax as Ricky filled her once more.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    "Be a doll and clean up the mess you made, will ya?" Ricky said since the 1930s lingo has started to ingrain itself into his everyday way of speaking as Alina let out ragged breaths.


    Ricky then slowly took out his cock, the marinating of his previous cum mixed in with the new batch flowed out of her pussy before pooling out beneath her.


    "Alina, I''m about to start round two~" Ricky said in an encouraging tone as Alina tired eyes shot open before she sat up.


    "Then you have to leave, alright?" Alina spoke as she hopped off the bed, only then realizing the room she was in.


    *Ding*


    Spend the night creamping Alina in Rocco''s room


    Reward: 50 gacha spins


    Unbeknownst to Ricky, he had not only completed his mission but also come to the realization of the room in which they had engaged in the deed.


    ''Oh sweet.'' Ricky thought as he looked at his zero gacha turned into fifty.


    *Snap*


    "Alina, focus on your mess." Ricky snapped his fingers, causing Alina to blush as she turned and saw his cock drenched in a mix of his cum and her own juices.


    Biting her lip, she dropped to her knees, positioning herself directly above his veiny shaft, which now hovered just above her face, casting a shadow over her.


    "Oh, this is gonna be great." Ricky let out a relieved sigh, feeling the beginnings of his hangover as he leaned back slightly.


    Alina hesitated for a moment before gently placing her lips on the tip of his cock, gradually taking him in as her taste buds met the lingering taste of Ricky''s cum.


    *SLURP*


    Instinctively, Alina began to slurp on Ricky''s cock, her eyes closing in enjoyment as she lost herself in the taste of his cum.


    Ricky looked down, surprised to see Alina so immersed in the moment that she didn''t even feel embarrassed.


    ''Woah, this addicting cum skill is actually the real deal.'' Ricky thought inwardly, putting a hand on Alina''s head.


    He didn''t need to push; her lips greedily covered the entire length of his cock, taking him in with an eager, voracious hunger.


    Loosening her throat, she took his entire length into her mouth, her tongue swirling furiously around him, savoring every drop of his cum that coat his shaft with an insatiable desire.


    Her eyes watered as she suddenly swallowed his entire length, pressing her lips all the way to his base with unwavering determination.


    Instinctively, she looked up, Ricky gently pushing a stray hair strand from her face.


    "You''re a natural." Ricky chuckled, watching as Alina closed her eyes and began to bob her head.


    Instead of pulling away, she pushed herself forward again as Ricky bit his lip, feeling the sensation of his cock being swallowed by her throat as she took him in fully once more.


    ''Goddam.'' Ricky looked up, watching as Alina greedily bobbed her head as her cheeks caved in with each suction, showcasing the intense effort she was putting into pleasuring him.


    Ricky''s hand gripped the back of Alina''s hair, guiding the rhythm of her eager blowjob as her eyelids fluttered, betraying her heightened sensations as he took control.


    Alina slurped his dick like a lollipop, unable to pry herself away from this taste while her eyes showed this relished taste as they rolled back.


    Gradually, Alina licked and swallowed every last trace of his previous cum, leaving her craving more of her newfound favorite flavor.


    Driven by this desire, she unconsciously quickened her pace as her once eager motions turned into a ravish hunger for more.


    Disregarding the tears pooling in her eyes, Alina drove his cock deep down her throat, her gaze fixed with a fervent, adoring intensity as her pupils seemingly morphed into hearts.


    Alina felt his cock twitching vigorously, but her hazy mind was solely focused on savoring the taste of his cum as she gazed up at him.


    Alina knew the face he made when he was about to cum, and as soon as she saw him grit his teeth, she eagerly took his entire length into her mouth.


    His cock throbbed deeply, and with each pulsation, thick, white goo shot down her throat and into her stomach.


    However, the taste she craved still eluded her tongue as she pulled back quickly, allowing his thick, gooey white liquid to coat her taste buds and fill her mouth.


    Her eyes rolled back as the scorching hot cum swirled around her mouth, saturating her taste buds.


    Ricky''s cock twitched twice more, signaling the end of his load, but Alina continued to savor the warm cream, luxuriating in its flavor while swirling it around her mouth.


    ''I think I''ve stumbled across a freak.'' Ricky watched with a mix of satisfaction and amusement as Alina swished his cum around her mouth like mouthwash.


    After a moment, she finally pulled back, still entranced at the taste before finally reeling herself in.


    *GULP*


    Alina swallowed Ricky''s cum in one gulp, letting it slide down her throat and into her gullet as Ricky gently placed his hand on her cheek.


    Ricky stuck his thumb into her mouth, pulling it open to see not a single trace of his cum remaining.


    "I''ll come back for you after I get back from my trip, alright?" Ricky smiled greedily, stumbling upon a potential cum dumpster.


    Ricky had known women like Alina in his past, though there were only two instances where they showed similar reactions each time he finished with them.


    Much like Alina, those women were already mothers when Ricky encountered them.


    Over time, they became his partners in having several children, though Ricky couldn''t recall the exact number, somewhere between his fifth and ninth bastard.


    Alina''s eyes widened in realization of what she had just done, but instead of showing disgust, she saw Ricky smiling as he stood up.


    "A-Are you mad?" Alina asked, watching Ricky start to put on his pants while she sat, still dripping with cum on the floor.


    "Huh? Of course not." Ricky waved his hand dismissively, easing her worries and making her sigh in relief.


    "But I am gonna buy you a house," Ricky said, his words hitting Alina with a shock that left her shocked to her very core.


    "R-Ricky-"


    "I can''t let my girl live in this cramped apartment, it would be a crime." Ricky said as he began considering houses located far from Maria''s place but still within proximity to his mansion.


    "Maybe I''ll make this our f*cknest or something." Ricky spoke as he glanced around the room, pulling on his shirt.


    "However, I can''t marry you." Ricky suddenly said as he gazed at Alina, who, instead of showing disappointment, had already nodded in agreement.


    "I-I know." Alina curled her fingers around her hair, resigned to the fact that her life with Ricky would be that of a mistress.


    It wasn''t uncommon for mobsters to have mistresses, and over the past month, Alina had come to terms with this reality.


    Since in this newfound reality, all she truly wanted was Ricky to be with her, no matter the title.


    "Well, that works out." Ricky walked over and kissed Alina''s forehead gently.


    He wanted to avoid any lingering aftertaste from her use of his cum as a makeshift mouthwash.


    "I gotta go and when I come back, I''ll show you your new house." Ricky spoke up, causing Alina to smile warmly.


    Her greatest fear was being discarded, but Ricky''s reassurance allowed her aching heart to finally begin to settle.


    "See you then~" Alina waved, her hand lingering in the air as Ricky stepped out of his friend''s old room, his footsteps echoing softly as he made his way toward the door.


    "Hello?" A little girl suddenly spoke up in confusion as Ricky came to a stop, his head slowly turning toward the seven-year-old, who clutched a pink blanket and a worn out teddy bear.


    "Daneille?" A horrified gaze settled on the young girl as a buried memory began to stir in his mind as he clenched his jaw, forcing it back down.


    "That''s not my name." The girl pouted, her image wavering like a mirage as Ricky flinched.


    He took a deep breath, steadying himself before regaining his composure before showing his usual easy going smile.


    "Sorry, it''s Sofia, right?" Ricky''s thoughts suddenly scattered as Sofia adorably bobbed her head, oblivious to Alina, who had turned pale on the other side of the door.


    "You''re probably wondering what I''m doing here, right?" Ricky spoke out in a gentle tone, bending onto one knee to see Sofia pulling the blanket up to cover half her face in slight fear.


    "Yeah." Sofia nodded, confirming her unspoken question as Ricky gently scooped her up into his arms.


    "You''re adorable." Ricky momentarily forgot what he was going to say as he lifted the frightened little girl, who began to tremble like a scared deer in his arms.


    *Sniff*


    "Hey whoa, I''m Slick, your brother''s friend." Ricky noticed Sofia''s eyes welling up with tears and quickly began explaining, his voice calm and reassuring.


    "Really, you were Big Brother''s friend?" Sofia''s eyes widened in surprise as Ricky nodded in affirmation, his expression serious yet gentle.


    "Of course." Ricky watched as Sofia''s face lit up with a brief spark of joy, only for it to dim as she remembered Rocco.


    Her expression shifted back to sadness, her earlier excitement fading while Ricky just hugged her since she was just too cute.


    "Sofia, where are yo-Slick?!" Marco opened the door only to flinch when he saw Ricky holding Sofia.


    "Hey Marco." Ricky waved at a surprised Marco while Sofia also waved.


    "Hey Marco." Sofia giggled while copying Ricky who twirled her around at how adorable she was.


    "W-What are you doing here?" Marco asked as he walked forward, his eyes scanning the scene for any signs of trouble, but he didn''t see anything out of place.


    "I got wasted and your mom let me crash in Rocco''s room." Ricky told a blatant lie, but Marco believed it entirely, having heard stories about Ricky''s past drunken escapades.


    "Oh-....you want some breakfast or something?" Marco asked as he walked to the kitchen to prepare breakfast, while Ricky turned his attention back to Sofia.


    "Bacon and eggs!" Sofia cheered at Ricky who also fist pumped.


    "Bacon and eggs!"


    Author''s Note: Thanks for the 7k collections, appreciate it and all the feedback I get on my fic.

 Chapter 56 - 55: Preperations, Preparations, Preparations

    Chapter 56: Chapter 55: Preperations, Preparations, Preparations


    Meanwhile in the basement of a safehouse,


    Dewey sat in the dimly lit room, poring over the files in his hand as the light flickered across a folder labeled ''Luciano Family Findings,'' written by his deceased friend Albert.


    One page, in particular, caught his attention as Dewey pulled it out, placing it in front of him, and began to mumble to himself.


    "During a car chase, my eyes didn''t deceive me when I saw Lucky''s kid drive over the old cricket bridge, the one with a whole chunk ripped out from a storm."


    "It was like a clue, and once I tugged on it, everything started to click. The actions of his kid began to make sense."


    "Maybe he really did take down the Five Point Gang, and maybe it wasn''t just a faulty grenade that did the trick. Perhaps the key to taking down Lucky is through his kid, because he''s might be a-" Dewey words froze at the next passage, shutting his mouth and continuing to read before placing it down.


    "T-That''s it, that''s how he does it." Dewey laughed to himself, covering his mouth as if everything just made sense.


    Looking to the side, Dewey noticed the time and realized he would be late as he quickly and hurriedly made his way to the meeting point.


    Minutes later, Dewey arrived and a figure clad in black was waiting under a single flickering light as he walked next to him.


    "Here." The man masked the tone of his voice with a gruff whisper, handing him some papers as Dewey took them.


    "I have another favor, the last one." Dewey put the papers into his jacket, five locations revealed as he tightly knitted his coat to cover them up.


    "It depends on who the favor is about." The man looked away, preparing to leave, and Dewey knew he was about to go back on his word.


    Despite this, he couldn''t stop himself; he was too close, driven by the same urgency that had consumed his friend before him.


    "It''s about Ricky Luciano."


    Meanwhile in Alina''s cramped apartment,


    "Holy sh*t Marco, you got talent." Ricky said after eating his third plate of food, going so far as to lick it clean.


    "Really?" Marco asked with a smile, Ricky pointing directly at him.


    "Would I lie to you?" Ricky asked Marco, his tone genuine while the latter paused to think for a moment but eventually shook his head as Ricky took another bite of his eggs.


    "More!" Sofia held out her plate, prompting Marco to sigh.


    Still, he took it and began filling it with the extra helpings he had purposely prepared from this exact scenario.


    "G-Good morning." Alina wobbled over to a nearby seat as Marco and Sofia waved, greeting her with their usual morning warmth.


    While Marco and Sofia were distracted, Alina quickly slipped away, crawling into her bedroom and once inside, she gathered the strength to get properly dressed.


    "Thanks again, Alina, for letting me stay the night." Ricky said with a wink. Alina blushed as Marco placed a plate in front of her.


    "So Slick, when are you leaving for your trip?" Marco asked Ricky, who paused to think for a moment before shrugging.


    "I guess, whenever I feel like it?" Ricky informed Marco, who tilted his head in response before returning to cooking.


    "Anyways, I should get going." Ricky quickly finished his plate while Marco and Sofia said their goodbyes and despite the farewell, his gaze lingered on one particular person.


    Even in the morning, with no makeup or adornments, Alina still looked ravishing in his eyes and as if unable to help himself, Ricky formed a sleazy smile.


    "Goodbye Ricky." Alina, her cheeks flushed, said goodbye as Ricky waved back before finally leaving the apartment.


    ''Golly, I feel like a schoolgirl again.'' Alina thought, eating a mouthful of the eggs after having a mouthful of Ricky earlier.


    As Ricky stepped out of the apartment, he stopped in his tracks upon seeing his car parked by the side of the road, with a parking maid standing next to it.


    "Aye, I''ll cut off your fingers if you place that ticket on my car!" Ricky yelled at the meter maid, who looked up with furrowed brows before both of them parted in surprise.


    Realizing who he was dealing with, Ricky quickly turned and bolted down the street since he was way above his pay grade.


    Breathing a sigh of relief, Ricky appreciated the perks of his mobster notoriety as he made his way to his battered Ford.


    After driving to the Cotton Club, he clumsily parked out front and saw Chores and Barko waiting patiently for him.


    "Hey Slick-"


    As Chores leaned in, Ricky''s thoughts took an unexpected turn as a sudden impulse to head to Mexico seized him, and he resolved to make it happen.


    "Get in; I''m going to see if Jake is sure he doesn''t want to come along first." Ricky suddenly ordered, Chores and Barko confused for a second before looking at one another.


    Shrugging haphazardly, the two nodded in agreement as Ricky entered the club, where the cleanup crew was scattered about.


    They greeted him as he made his way to the back office, where a startling sight awaited him.


    Jake was in the office, but Ricky was taken aback to find him wide awake and still in yesterday''s outfit.


    Beside him were stacks of completed paperwork since Jake had not only cleared the backlog but had also begun working on the tasks he needed for later.


    "Whoa Jake, did you pull an all-nighter?'' Ricky asked, gazing in slight awe at the towering monolith of papers forming on his desk.


    "Not only did I pull an all-nighter." Jake said eagerly, literally bouncing up and down in his seat.


    "But I found the funds, reworked our budget to keep us out of the red, and even completed the paperwork to open the two new clubs!" Jake exclaimed in a hyperactive manner, and Ricky''s face broke into an excited smile.


    "That''s great, Jake. You did an excellent job, I knew I could count on you," Ricky praised as the words Jake had been eagerly waiting for finally reached his ears.


    "So, you want to come on our trip to smuggle drugs if you''re all done?" Ricky asked Jake, who considered it for a brief moment, but then shook his head.


    "I can''t, I still have a bunch of stuff to do, but good luck!" Jake eagerly got back to work as the praise had fueled him even more.


    "Alright, but take a break every now and then." Ricky waved goodbye, but Jake''s eyes remained glued to the papers as Ricky walked back to the car.


    "Where''s Jake?" Barko looked around, expecting Jake to join them, but Ricky simply shook his head.


    "He said he doesn''t want to go, and I''m not gonna force him," Ricky lighthardly said, turning the key in the ignition.


    Barko tilted his head in curiosity, but when he glanced back and saw Chores struggling to get comfortable, he decided it was best to ignore it.


    Driving to the house, Ricky picked up Alexander and, surprisingly, Chester, who wanted to tag along, though Ricky wasn''t opposed to it.


    Ricky had two more stops to make, and the first was to collect the money from Lucky.


    However, as he entered the building, he was met with a scene of chaos as people scrambled around in a frenzy.


    "Hey, what''s happening?" Ricky approached the nearest mobster and asked what was going on and the man sighed heavily, his distress and anxiety evident.


    "That attorney Dewey busted five our prostitution joints-"


    *CRASH*


    "DAMMIT!" Lucky''s screech echoed through the building, followed by the sound of something being destroyed.


    Ricky quickly made his way to the back, where he found a furious Lucky in the midst of the chaos.


    "Pops are you alright-"


    "THAT MOTHERF*CKER!" Lucky roared inside the room with Genovese, Frank, and Meyer all trying to map out the best course of action.


    "How many of our guys did they get?" Ricky turned to Meyer and asked what was happening.


    Meyer pulled out a piece of paper, glanced at it, then looked up at Ricky with concern in his eyes.


    "Seven, though they were all grunts." Meyer informed Ricky who messaged his chin.


    "What about the ledgers-"


    "Our guys smuggled it out of the cops clutches." Frank explained the situation, leaving Ricky confused.


    He glanced over at a livid Lucky, puzzled by his intense reaction since, although it was a setback, it wasn''t a major one.


    "I think we need to cap this guy-" Ricky tried to voice his opinion but Lucky dissuaded it almost immediately.


    "No, if we do then we''ll get slammed by the entire force of the government." Lucky waved Ricky off but he frowned.


    "Then what''s the big deal about a couple of joints?" Ricky sat down, unaware as to why this had made him so annoyed.


    "The joints weren''t the problem since I covered my tracks, but the money that bastard Dewey got his hands on, that''s the problem." Lucky tiredly sat down in his chair, while Genovese watched with a wicked smile.


    "Ricky, this is your chance." Genovese leaned in and whispered into Ricky''s ear, his words laced with a lie as the falsehood nearly made a scowl ripple across Ricky''s smile.


    ''Alright, this motherf*cker needs to go.'' Ricky thought to himself, having enough of Genovese who always wanted him to fail.


    While he understood the hostility since after all, Genovese''s spot on the commission had effectively been usurped by him, despite being the underboss.


    But Ricky had always believed that being in the Luciano family actually meant something.


    As the realization sank in, a wicked smile curled on his lips, and an idea began to form in his mind.


    "How much did we lose?" Ricky turned toward Meyer, who was rubbing his forehead in frustration.


    "2 mil, which we we''re going to fund twenty more new joints since we were going to take over the prostitution racket in manhattan-"


    "Then give me two million, and I''ll buy up all of our suppliers'' stock." Ricky boldly proclaimed, his confidence clear when wanting to use this situation to levy his position to new heights within the family.


    "We''ll not only cover our losses but also expand our operations." Ricky laughed out but Lucky only scoffed and leaned back, unimpressed at this poor joke.


    However, the other three didn''t take it as a joke as Meyer was thinking hard about the math before he realized how much they could make.


    "An ounce costs us $8, which breaks down into 28 grams at about 29 cents per gram. We sell each gram for $1, making a profit of 71 cents per gram. If we give Ricky $2 million, he can acquire 250,000 ounces. With the current scarcity, we expect to sell it for approximately $7 million, resulting in a profit of around $5 million." Meyer did all the math in his head, tapping the desk as if it helped him along the way with his calculations.


    *BAM*


    "Are you kidding me?" Lucky yelled at Meyer, slamming his hands onto the desk.


    "We''ve barely managed to smuggle $100,000 worth of weed through the border, and now you want Slick, someone who''s never even left New York, to smuggle out TWO MILLION DOLLARS'' WORTH OF IT?" Lucky threw a book at the wall and threw up his hands in exasperation.


    Since Meyer''s ability to find the profit, he couldn''t ignore the glaring reality of the situation .


    "Honestly Lucky, I think the kid can do it." Genovese chimed in, Ricky''s eyebrows creasing at the clear lie while Lucky scoffed once more.


    "Genovese-"


    "Lucky, we really need the profits right now, we''ll have to get sloppy if we want to cover our losses. If we take the hit, then it only gives that f*cking fed a better grip on our operations." Frank sighed and, siding with Ricky, giving him a thumbs up.


    *SIGH*


    Lucky wanted to refuse, but he knew Frank was right.


    Dewey''s surprise sting operations had caught him off guard, and his overly relaxed approach in dealing with Dewey had led to the blunder he faced now.


    "What is this weed you speak of? I wish to know of it''s cause!" Alexander peeked out from Ricky''s shirt pocket before quickly being tucked back in.


    "Let me talk to my pops." Ricky beckoned to the three as they all shrugged and left, leaving the two of them to themselves.


    "Pops, listen carefully to my words." Ricky spoke, showing a serious expression towards Lucky currently rubbing his forehead.


    "I think all of this has something to do with Genovese." Ricky''s words made Lucky stand to his feet, a reaction that surprised even Ricky.


    He didn''t know if his words were the truth or not, but it concerned him that his father''s right-hand man wanted him to fail.


    While it was common for there to be eager people, everything Genovese uttered, whether praise for him or a simple greeting, was outright lies, and that didn''t sit right with Ricky.


    ''I gotta get rid of him.'' Ricky said to himself, knowing that loyalty was everything in the Mob.


    Lucky had repeatedly made it clear that Ricky would eventually take over for him, a move that went against the established norms of how the families operated.


    Ricky was determined to address this growing issue and eliminate any risks before they escalated further.


    "What are you on about- '''' Lucky was utterly shocked and appalled by Ricky''s words since he grew up on the streets with Genovese, going way back to the five point gang.


    "Do you trust me?" Ricky said to Lucky who unconsciously nodded.


    "With my life, you know that." Lucky said the words without even having to think about it.


    "Then know that everything Genovese has said to me is a lie, be it from his praise to thinking I can do it, he''s full of sh*t." Ricky spoke, and as Lucky began to retort, he stopped short as Ricky had a knack for spotting lies, and Lucky knew he couldn''t get away with fibbing something in front of him.


    "He can''t-"


    "I know you won''t believe me because you think of him like a brother, but at least keep an eye on him for me, for me pops." Ricky said with almost a pleading tone, Lucky struggling to even hear this request but eventually relented, nodding in agreement.


    "Alright, but about the smuggling-"


    "Pops this is my chance, the family is in chaos right now and I got the golden opportunity to turn this disaster into a blessing." Ricky''s words caused Lucky to pause mid-refute, biting his lip as he considered the situation.


    He knew he needed to trust Ricky, despite his fear and deep down, he understood that no ordinary person could contend with Ricky if push came to shove.


    The cherry on top for Lucky was that if Ricky managed to pull this off, it would solidify his position in the family so thoroughly that no one would be able to refute it.


    "If you mess this up you''re dead you hear me? And if you''re ever in trouble just run and-"


    "Pops, I got it." Ricky pulled Lucky in a hug while laughing heartily.


    "Give me a second to gather the funds."


    For the next thirty minutes, Lucky ordered duffle bag after duffle bag into the office and once everyone cleared, Ricky revealed his storage and started throwing the bags into it.


    Lucky stood frozen, stumbling backward as a space seemed to materialize in the air before him.


    About to shout for help outside, it dawned on him that Ricky had control over it, the realization striking him with a proud shock.


    "W-Wait, you''re doing this?!" Lucky asked, pointing his shaking finger at his storage space.


    "Yup." Ricky lightly commented, laughing at his shock and continuing to throw the bags in.


    Ricky revealed one of his cards to Lucky, intentionally easing his concerns as he knew Lucky had a tendency to worry needlessly.


    So, he chose this moment to show him a bit of what he could do, hoping to alleviate some of his unease.


    "Why didn''t you ever tell me about this!" Lucky yelled in complete and utter shock, trying to enter only to recoil back from an invisible barrier.


    "You never asked." Ricky shrugged to Lucky''s now deadpan expression.


    "Whatever, I was worried for nothing." Lucky scoffed as he glanced at the door, noting that the storage space was as large as a small house and almost on par with a small warehouse.


    The most challenging aspect of smuggling was moving goods without detection, and Ricky''s ability to do just that made him an invaluable asset.


    "Be careful!" Lucky yelled at Ricky''s back as he exited the Luciano family''s meeting room.


    Despite the Luciano family''s recent growth and their rise to becoming one of the largest families in the tri state area, their rapid expansion required ongoing recruitment and a steady influx of funds.


    This was crucial to sustain their new businesses and burgeoning power until they could fully stabilize, meaning that Lucky had to stay rooted in the state to consolidate this growing power.


    "I won''t!"


    Ricky made his way towards the car, his footsteps echoing in the quiet street.


    Just as he reached for the door handle, a thought struck him, and he paused, turning back towards the building.


    ''Wait receive.'' Ricky, receiving a reward from his recent escape with Alina, remembered and quickly sought to gain it.


    Received:


    Rare Weapon: Tungsten Machete


    Description: Made out of the hard tungsten alloy, this Machete has been sharpened to be able to slice through things with relative ease.


    ''Hmm, neat.'' Ricky thought, getting inside the car while preparing to embark on the road trip.


    "I got one more stop before we go." Ricky addressed the others, who responded with exasperated grunts.


    Without hesitation, they zipped the car around and headed in the opposite direction.


    "Where are we going-" Barko curiously asked only for Chores to realize in a mere second.


    "The hospital." Ricky informed Barko, who closed his mouth and nodded in understanding.


    Arriving at the hospital moments later, they walked in with relative ease as Ricky paused at the door of Eddy''s room, hesitating for a moment before finally pushing it open and stepping inside.


    ''Stop being a f*cking coward and go in.'' Ricky gnashed his teeth, gripping the doorknob with a profound sense of guilt.


    In all honesty, Ricky had been avoiding talking with Eddy, as he could never look at him without seeing his own failure.


    However, he knew it wasn''t Eddy''s fault but his own, and for that reason, he entered the room to see a severely anorexic Eddy.


    ''Jesus.'' Ricky flinched at the sight of Eddy''s deteriorated condition.


    The once heavily obese, Eddy now appeared even skinnier than before, his dramatic weight loss starkly evident as he was a husk of his former self and it showed.


    "Eddy?" Ricky asked in confusion as the lifeless eyes of Eddy turned to him though didn''t make a sound.


    "H-How are you doing buddy?" Ricky hesitated for a moment before asking, then walked over and took a seat in the chair next to Eddy''s bed.


    Eddy, however, turned his gaze back toward the window, avoiding eye contact while gazing at the birds flying high in the sky.


    "I guess you''re not doing all that well if you''re still here, right?" Ricky tried to make a light hearted joke but it simply fell on deaf ears with Eddy.


    "....." Ricky remained silent as he gazed at Eddy for a long time before letting out a deep sigh.


    "Eddy I''m really lost here, what can I do man, just tell me what I need to do to help you." Ricky, for the first time, didn''t mince words.


    Despite his usual demeanor, in front of his friend, he was willing to be brutally honest with himself.


    Eddy stared out the window for a while before slowly turning towards Ricky, his gaze meeting his friend''s as Ricky saw in Eddy''s eyes a mix of emotions, including guilt.


    "I want to die, please kill me."


    "What the f*ck!" Ricky stood up in his seat in horror, hearing the absolute last thing he expected from Eddy.


    "I ain''t killing you so forget about-" Ricky laughed nervously, raising his hands in the air as if to ward off his own anxiety.


    "It''s your fault you know." Eddy''s words echoed in Ricky''s ears, causing him to freeze, his body tensing as he absorbed the impact of what had been said.


    "If you were there, then none of this would''ve happened." Eddy spoke, his face betraying no emotion as his words cut through the silence.


    "Eddy don''t put that on me, how could I have known!" Ricky yelled, his face reflecting his deep belief in his words.


    It seemed unfair to place the entire blame on him and deep down Eddy knew that, he merely said these things to guilt Ricky into his own wishes.


    "You should''ve been there for us, you should''ve been there for Rocco." Eddy turned his gaze back to the window as for the first time in a while, Ricky felt defeated.


    Even having been beaten by the vampire and left for dead by Abraham didn''t make him feel as sh*tty as he did in this very moment.


    "Eddy, tell me what I can do to make this right man, I''ll do anything, anything else." Ricky somewhat pleaded as Eddy closed his eyes.


    "Can you heal my legs?" Eddy asked only for Ricky to shut his trap, scratching his head while looking away.


    "Well, not exactly-"


    "Then can you get me some bedsheets?" Eddy asked, raising an eyebrow, but he didn''t glance at Ricky directly, his gaze remaining distant.


    "Bed Sheets?" Ricky reiterated his words, scratching his head in contemplation.


    ''What''s the harm in bedsheets?'' Ricky thought without care, simply wanting to escape this conversation and convincing himself that this would work.


    "Of course I can get you some bed sheets, in fact, I''ll get you the best damn bedsheets that money can buy." Ricky proclaimed, causing Eddy to smile slightly.


    The faint expression did not go unnoticed by Ricky, who quickly walked out the door with a rejuvenated smile of his own.


    "Alright Eddy, after my trip I''ll get you the most pristine bed sheets that your skin has ever nestled itself in." Ricky opened the door, but Eddy remained focused on the window, his gaze locked on the scenery outside.


    Feeling a bit better, Ricky left the hospital and made his way back to the car as he adjusted the mirror and placed his hands on the steering wheel, ready to drive.


    "Alright boys, let''s start our road trip."


    4 days later,


    Meanwhile in New York,


    Dewey hummed happily as he reviewed all the losses he had endured from Lucky, a wide smile spread across his face.


    ''Now all I need to do is wait for you to slip up as you try it-''


    "BOSS, WE GOT A PROBLEM!" One of Dewey''s loyal subordinates rushed into his office.


    "What are you on about-"


    "Our guy on the inside says that the Luciano family has found a way to cover the losses!" The man rushed over to Dewey, handing him a paper.


    Dewey quickly scanned over it, his eyes darting across the text as he absorbed the information.


    "GET ME THE BORDER PATROL ON THE LINE RIGHT THIS MOMENT, WE ONLY GOT MINUTES TO STOP THEM!"


    As Dewey scrambled to maintain his advantage over Lucky, Ricky pulled up right at the border, ready to cross.


    "Passport." A rugged man leaned down onto the window sill as Ricky handed over his passport, along with Chores, though they bore completely different names while the man scanned the documents carefully.


    Meanwhile, beagles began sniffing around the car, their tails wagging enthusiastically but despite their thorough search, they didn''t find anything.


    "So, what brings you fella''s down to Mexico." The border patrol officer asked, looking up from the passports as Ricky smiled widely at this.


    "I heard the women down there have a different taste compared to the broads up north." Ricky joked with a sleazy smile as the man responded with a hearty laugh, his laughter echoing around them.


    "Right you are, right you are!" The border patrol agent slammed his hand down on the car before returning Ricky''s passport with a curt nod.


    "Have a good day yer hear?" The man nodded to Ricky, handing back the passports and tipping his hat.


    "Oh, I will."


    2 minutes later,


    "WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU LET HIM THROUGH!" Dewey screeched into the phone, causing the border patrol agent to recoil in surprise.


    "I''m sorry, but his name said he was Antonio Vispici-"


    "USELESS!"


    *CLINK*


    Dewey slammed his phone down, stood up, and grabbed his jacket as his subordinate, John, followed closely behind him.


    "Come on, John, we''re about to make the biggest drug bust in history." Dewey said, his eyes gleaming with greed for glory.


    He walked out of the government building with renewed resolve, heading straight for the airport as nearby, an onlooker mirrored this intensity, though in a different way.


    Lucky gritted his teeth, gripping his cane tightly as his eyes burned with anger as he watched Dewey storm out of the office.


    Lucky''s face was flushed red with anger, rage pulsing in his eyes as he remembered his earlier conversation with his son.


    "Gregorio, drive back to our operations. I got to set a trap." Lucky said to his driver, and Gregorio raised an eyebrow in response.


    "A trap, for what boss?" Gregorio asked Lucky, who began to form a ruthless conviction in his eyes.


    "For a rat."

 Chapter 57 - 56: Mexico

    Chapter 57: Chapter 56: Mexico


    "So this is Mexico, such beautiful scenery." Barko commented, gazing out the window with an appreciative look only for Ricky to scrunch his brows.


    "What the f*ck are you talking about, it''s just desert?" Ricky said, confused, glancing at the others as Alexander nodded in agreement beside him.


    "I concur, I thought there would be well-...more." Alexander scratched his head, usually playing devil''s advocate, but he couldn''t see the appeal in a barren stretch of land, while both Chores and Chester scoffed.


    "It''s because we''re so far inland and near the border, but besides that, the scenery showcases the natural beauty of Mexico." Chores nodded from the dashboard, gesturing toward the sun, which cast a beautiful cascade of light over the mountains, while Chester nodded in agreement with his words.


    "Beautifully said." Chester then gazed at the scenery he had read so much about, the sight he had traveled for in this tightly cramped car.


    Appreciating the scenery of the Mexican desert is like stepping into a painting of golden sands and rugged beauty.


    The landscape stretches endlessly, with waves of heat rising from the ground, creating a mirage like effect.


    Towering cacti stand as silent sentinels, their arms reaching toward the azure sky.


    The sun hangs high, casting its warm glow over the vast expanse, painting everything in a rich, golden hue.


    The air is dry, filled with the earthy scent of desert plants, mixed with the faint aroma of spices carried on the breeze.


    Pockets of vegetation are sprinkled around, not clustered in one spot but spread out just enough to enhance the beauty of the landscape.


    In the distance, rugged mountains rise, their jagged peaks cutting sharp silhouettes against the sky.


    As the day fades into evening, the sky is set ablaze with the colors of the setting sun, casting a warm, orange glow over the desert.


    The landscape takes on a magical quality as shadows lengthen and the stars begin to twinkle overhead, wrapping the environment in a blanket of shimmering light.


    "So where are we headed, Slick?" Barko interrupted Chester''s appreciation, prompting Ricky to pull out a map and toss it to him.


    "That Juan guy is supposedly set up in the border city of Matamoros." Ricky informed Barko as they drove along the rough road.


    "He''s the leader of the up-and-coming Gulf Cartel, which primarily deals in weed and cocaine that he usurped from his father." Chores pulled out his notebook while reading aloud and as he lowered it, he noticed everyone was giving him odd looks.


    "What? I will not simply go into dangers half assessed, if I''m going to be a mobster then I want to be a well informed one." Chores shrugged off their gazes as he pocketed his notebook, then gave Ricky a slight, indecisive jab.


    Chores hadn''t been sitting idly by under Ricky''s employment; instead, he had been diligently educating himself in the ways of the underworld.


    Adjusting quickly to such an environment was challenging, especially since he had only worked in a circus before.


    What set Chores apart from the others was his willingness to put his head down and do the necessary work without complaints.


    "Alright." Ricky hadn''t expected Chores to be so well informed, but he was beginning to see just how reliable he was, beyond just being a strong arm.


    "In your opinion Chores, do you think they''ll be able to-"


    "No, I doubt they''ll have 2 million worth of weed available." Chores said bluntly, considering how unrealistic it would be for a cartel to prepare such large amounts in a short time..


    "Whatever, we''ll see when we get there anyways so why worry about it now." Ricky irresponsibly shrugged off the thoughts as he continued driving down the dirt road.


    After another two hours, they finally arrived at the city that served as the Gulf Cartel''s home base.


    Almost immediately, a sea of hunting rifles were aimed at their car as around thirty men surrounded them, all focusing their guns on Ricky.


    "STATE YOUR BUSINESS AMERICANS!" A man shouted, and Ricky stuck his head out of the window with a laugh.


    "WE ARE HERE TO BUY YOUR DRUGS ON BEHALF OF THE LUCIANO FAMILY!" Ricky shouted back in Spanish, leaving everyone, including the cartel members, shocked by his perfect accent.


    "Did you know he could speak-" Barko, unaware of the translation ring on his finger, breathlessly asked Chores who sighed.


    "Not a clue." Chores shook his head, dissuading any thoughts of him being associated with Ricky''s reckless surprises while Barko looked back at the guns.


    They all looked at each other, then put down their weapons and scratched their heads in confusion.


    "STAND DOWN, I SAID STAND DOWN!" A command roared from behind them, and the crowd quickly parted to make way for a single man.


    "I am Juan Nepomuceno Guerra, but you may call me Juan, and yours my friend?" Juan, a young man no older than nineteen, boisterously asked Ricky with a wide smile.


    "Ricky Luciano, but everyone usually calls me Slick." Ricky introduced himself to Juan, and the cartel leader suddenly had a realization about the significance of the Italian mafia''s nicknames to their operations.


    "Are you perhaps Mr. Luciano''s son?" Juan tentatively asked, wanting to make sure who he was speaking to before continuing.


    "My pops heard that some of our people were having trouble connecting with you, so he sent me to fix our business relationship," Ricky said with a smile, spinning the most random bullsh*t he could think of as Juan and his men looked on in surprise.


    "Repair?" Juan, looking confused, asked since he was well aware of the Luciano family''s troubles with getting their product but didn''t understand how their relationship could have created a fissure.


    "It''s just that my father didn''t want your cartel to think we weren''t interested in your product, so he sent me to ensure our continued friendship." Ricky walked up to Juan, who was slightly shorter, and looked down at him.


    Ricky had grown three inches over this period and now stood at 5''11" at the age of 15, his birthday having been just two weeks prior.


    "I''m very grateful that Mr. Luciano values our relationship so much." Juan said enthusiastically, though in reality, he was slightly worried.


    Juan''s cartel had amassed its fortune and power by smuggling whiskey through the Texas border.


    It was only after a chance encounter with the Luciano family that he began supplying them with drugs.


    For the past two years, the Luciano family had been his top buyer, however, with the recent lockdowns along the border, their profits had begun to dip.


    "Juan, if you don''t mind me asking, how old are you?" Ricky asked as he released Juan''s hand as he nodded.


    "Ninteen." Juan said, though he was wary, as he had been underestimated for his age.


    "I''m fifteen, it''s nice to talk with someone similar in age." Ricky chuckled at the sheer surprise on Juan''s face, noting how Ricky was built like a tank for his age and seemed taken aback.


    It was brief but Juan felt familiar with Ricky since young drug lords were rare, and Juan had struggled to find common ground with others after usurping the cartel from his father.


    "Do you have a place where we could talk about business by any chance?" Ricky asked, and Juan shook himself out of his shock and nodded.


    "Of course Slick, brother''s let them through the gate!" Juan ordered his men, who parted to make way for the car without a driver, while the three currently in the car looked at each other.


    "Why are you looking at me, does it look like I have opposable thumbs?" Barko asked, holding up his paws as Chester nodded as well, holding up his wings.


    *Sigh*


    "I guess I''ll drive." Chores got out of the car, which shook violently as the weight shifted, and then climbed into the driver''s seat.


    20 minutes later,


    Juan personally led Ricky into his sprawling mansion, which was nearly three times the size of his father''s.


    As they walked through the grand halls, Juan pointed out various luxuries that he and his family had been collecting.


    Once seated on lavish furniture across from Juan, Ricky nodded appreciatively at the opulence surrounding him.


    The sound of clicking heels caught his attention, and he turned to see an immensely beautiful girl approaching.


    She wore a floral-patterned skirt that swayed gently with each step, its vibrant colors and intricate patterns adding a touch of whimsy to her appearance.


    The skirt''s soft fabric draped gracefully, accentuating her slender figure with effortless elegance.


    In her hand, she carried a beverage, perhaps a glass of chilled agua fresca or a delicate cocktail, its hues catching the light and adding a subtle shimmer.


    Her skin was a warm, radiant caramel, smooth and glowing with a natural, sun-kissed sheen.


    It contrasted beautifully with the vivid colors of her skirt, and her gentle blush only added to her understated allure.


    Her shy demeanor was accentuated by the way she occasionally glanced downward, avoiding direct eye contact.


    Her long, dark hair fell in soft waves around her face, and she wore minimal makeup, letting her natural beauty shine through.


    "Wife?" Ricky asked Juan who shook his head with a smile.


    "Older sister." Juan smiled warmly, Ricky leaning back with a sleazy smile.


    ''Nice.'' Ricky chuckled inside, staring at the girl who avoided his eyes as if it was the plague.


    "Is that Horchata?" Ricky asked as she bent down to place the Horchata in front of Juan, his eyes fixed on her graceful movements.


    "It is, would you also like one?" Juan saw Ricky shrug in compliance, gesturing to his sister who quickly nodded and went to grab him a drink.


    "Here my friend, you can have mine." Juan slid the Horchata across the table, and Ricky immediately swiped it, putting his lips to the straw.


    *SLURPPP*


    ''Holy sh*t.'' Ricky looked down in surprise, noticing the Horchata was subtly spiked with rum.


    The hint of alcohol was just enough to add a unique twist without overpowering the drink''s flavor.


    "Alright my friend, what is it that you really want from me?" Juan got down to business quickly, knowing that while his comrades might not be skeptical of Ricky''s arrival, he himself had reservations.


    Juan hadn''t risen through the turbulent and bloody border drug trade by smuggling alone; his quick wits were his true asset.


    This sharp intellect complemented the fact that his father had previously led the cartel, paving the way for Juan''s bloody succession.


    Had Ricky inquired about previous deals with the Gulf Cartel, he would have learned that the Luciano family never met with them face-to-face.


    The Lucianos always sent a middleman, a clear sign of their lack of full respect for their cartel, a fact that didn''t bother him in the least.


    In truth, Juan enjoyed dealing with Americans, who consistently overpaid for his cheapest products, however, recent delays in their purchases had made him wary.


    Juan was deeply concerned and vigilant about the reasons behind Ricky''s visit, keeping his guard up throughout their interaction.


    "Instead of the usual 200,000 worth of weed, I want 2 million worth of it." Ricky''s confession was far from what Juan had expected, leaving him speechless.


    *SLURRPPPPPP*


    "Damn, this is good." Ricky muttered to himself, thoroughly slurping the Horchata as if he were on vacation rather than in the midst of a drug deal.


    As Juan''s sister was about to set the drink down in front of her brother, Ricky reached out and grabbed her hand.


    *DING*


    [Mission Received: Rosa Guerra]


    Difficulty: Easy-Medium


    Character Sheet: D


    Description: Growing up with an abusive father was tough on Rosa, and her sudden transition into a very sheltered world only made things more complicated. Rather than becoming arrogant, this overprotective environment stunted her emotional growth. Her inability to form genuine relationships with others stemmed from her closed-off nature, shaped by years of being shielded from the harsh realities of life. As she navigated this sheltered existence, her inner desires began to twist and evolve into a manifestation of something entirely unexpected.


    Objective: Unleash Rosa''s desire and fill her to the brim with your baby batter.


    Reward:


    Main Mission: 35,000 IP


    Impregnante Once:


    Rewards: 75 Gacha Or Rosa''s skills


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Have Rosa show her true self(Incomplete):


    Reward: Epic Skill Coupon


    Use Rosa''s kink to have her cums three times(Incomplete):


    Reward: +4 Strength


    Impregnate Rosa within the confines of Juan''s home(Incomplete):


    Reward: +4 Stamina


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ''Yes.''


    "I know this is sudden, but are you an angel?" Ricky asked with a cheesy grin, his voice cutting through the tension.


    She froze, her eyes darting to her brother, who remained motionless, clearly taken aback by the audacity of the gesture.


    "N-No-" Rosa was a bit flustered, recalling that the last time another guy had touched her, Juan had beaten the boy to a bloody pulp.


    "Because this Horchata you made is divine." Ricky interrupted her with a cheesy smile, his gaze fixed on her.


    He slowly swapped the Horchata intended for Juan with his empty glass, taking the drink with a nonchalant air.


    Rosa registered the confusion before the joke hit her, and then she smiled and chuckled as the sound of her laughter jolted Juan back to reality.


    "TWO MILLION!" Juan yelled, finally snapping out of Ricky''s earlier words, his eyes seemingly bulging with the sight of dollar signs.


    *SLURRRRRRRP*


    "I know it''s a little last minute and a tad bit unprofessional, but the Luciano family would appreciate it if you''d humor us with two million dollars worth of weed." Ricky vigorously slurped the Horchata before asking once more.


    "Slick, my friend, can you give me a moment?" Juan suddenly asked, Ricky nodding and watching him bolt into a hallway before doubling back.


    "ROSA, KEEP SLICK COMPANY UNTIL I GET BACK!" Juan screeched backwards, dashing around the corner leaving the two alone in the luxurious hall.


    "Although he called me Slick, you can call me Ricky." Ricky stood up, setting the empty glass on the table while Rosa''s eyes immediately darted towards his hand.


    "Rosa." Rosa briefly introduced herself, shaking his hand while keeping her gaze fixed on the ground as Ricky had to duck his head slightly to meet her eyes.


    Rosa widened her eyes, then looked to the side, trying to hide her embarrassment but Ricky smirked and repeated the gesture, his persistence causing her face to flush red.


    "W-What are you doing?" Rosa asked in an anxious tone as Ricky persisted in moving his face into her line of sight.


    "Seeing if you''d meet my gaze, but it seems you really don''t intend to look at me," Ricky said, noting that his efforts were becoming a bit futile as he released her hand, and she immediately turned around.


    "Ha!" Ricky let out an immediate laugh at her embarrassment, her ears turning red as he noticed.


    Meanwhile, his eyes trailed down to her backside, relishing in those delicate yet protruding curves that made men rabid.


    "..." Rosa remained quiet, covering her face in embarrassment, while Ricky rubbed his chin thoughtfully.


    ''Wow that system description is really spot on but what did it mean by eccentric tastes?'' Ricky, amused, reflected that while he usually skimmed mission descriptions and rarely connected them to the woman involved, that perspective was slowly changing.


    "Has anyone ever told you how much of a chatterbox you are?" Ricky joked, trying to spice up the awkward atmosphere.


    "No~" Rosa said, her voice tinged with a hint of whine, which made Ricky burst into a hysterical laugh.


    ''How adorable.'' Ricky thought, taking a step closer to position himself behind her.


    "Rosa." Ricky whispered in her ear, causing her to shiver before she flinched, suddenly running in the direction her brother had gone.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky began laughing at the sight of her scurrying away like a frightened mouse, all while she covered her reddened face.


    "Now, what am I going to do?" Ricky frowned as he scanned the room until his eyes landed on a mini bar tucked away in the corner as his frown gradually transformed into a malicious smile.


    "It''s five o''clock somewhere."


    While Ricky was reveling in the unattended bar, Juan rushed to the warehouse with utmost urgency.


    Rival cartels and small gangs had been steadily eroding his funds, and despite taking over the small border town, their profits were slipping.


    Upon arriving, Juan immediately seized their inadequate inventory catalog, starting to do the math in his head.


    ''Dammit.''


    Eventually, Juan returned to the exact spot only to find no one in sight, his confusion mounting.


    His thoughts began to spiral, and anxiety crept in as he searched for his sister along with Ricky.


    Finally, he spotted Ricky off to the side, downing an expensive bottle of tequila behind the mini bar.


    "Whoa, this some good sh*t!" Ricky displayed a boisterous attitude, causing Juan to let out a relieved sigh, realizing he had been overthinking the situation.


    "Slick if I may inquire-"


    "Your sister left ten minutes ago after we introduced herself." Ricky could sense what Juan was about to ask as he began slicing more limes.


    *Sigh*


    "I apologize on her behalf; she''s just a shy girl." Juan said with a wry smile as he walked over and sat in front of Ricky, not at all offended by Ricky helping himself to his expensive liquor.


    Ricky then began pouring tequila and grapefruit soda into a mixer, squeezing in some lime juice and topping it off with a pinch of salt.


    It might be a problem later, but Tequila really brought out Ricky''s wild side which some would refer to as crazy though no one would know until it was too late.


    "So, I''m guessing you''re a little short." Ricky could tell from the look on Juan''s face as he shook the mixer.


    "Only a little-"


    "Then how much do you have for me?" Ricky asked, pouring the drink into two glasses and setting one in front of Juan.


    "From the books, only around 1.4 mil worth." Juan gulped, grabbing the drink as Ricky nodded, a little disappointed but still downing the glass in one sitting.


    "I won''t lie, I knew coming in that you wouldn''t have it but I''m still a little disappointed-"


    "I can get you the rest!" Juan suddenly interrupted Ricky who was about to down the rest of the bottle instead of making another drink, raising an eyebrow before he could backwash the tequila.


    "When." Ricky asked, glancing back at the tequila, which was as smooth as silk.


    "Four-no, three days. Give me three days and I''ll get you the rest." Juan eagerly suggested, and Ricky raised an eyebrow before shrugging.


    As Ricky walked away, Juan''s nerves spiked when he saw him turn the corner and pull out his inventory key.


    Suddenly, bags were tossed in his direction from the side, causing Juan to flinch in surprise.


    Seeing the duffel bags filled to the brim with the green that the Founding Fathers themselves had created, Juan''s curiosity was piqued.


    But when he turned the corner, all he saw was Ricky walking away, finishing his drink.


    Speechless and confused, Juan scratched his head, unable to figure out how Ricky had gotten those bags.


    "Are you-"


    "Devilishly handsome?" Ricky, feeling a bit tipsy, swiped the bottle from the counter and asked, his voice slightly slurred.


    "Yes, yes I am."


    Later that night at the Mexico City Continental,


    At the bar, a gorgeous woman known only to a select few as Raven sipped her gin on the rocks, her eyes fixed on the map spread before her.


    Several X marks littered the parchment, each representing a potential destination.


    As she absentmindedly twirled a pen between her fingers, Raven pondered her next move, deciding where she might head next since she was free for a while.


    "Mrs. Darkholme, the information you paid for has been acquired." The bartender appeared, making Raven raise a smile.


    "Is that so?" Raven raised a smile, halting the twirl of the pen and placing it on the map.


    "What little goodie bag has dropped on my lap?"

 Chapter 58 - 57: A Masquerading Woman

    Chapter 58: Chapter 57: A Masquerading Woman


    3 days later,


    A large truck rumbled down the road, the driver glancing at the time with great haste, gnawing on his lip with an anxious twitch..


    It was imperative that he make it to the designated point in time; failure meant ending up dead in a random ditch somewhere in the desert.


    The driver was tasked with transporting Ricky''s precious cargo, and Juan, Ricky''s unforgiving supplier, had made it clear that any delay would be met with harsh consequences.


    Even a minute late, and punishment was inevitable with the driver looking down at his cut off pinkie before shivering.


    Sweat slicked the driver''s palms as his gaze flickered nervously between the road ahead and the ticking clock.


    Suddenly, his attention snapped back to the road as a figure loomed in the center of his headlights.


    Before his mind could process what he was seeing, his right foot slammed on the brake.


    The tires screeched violently against the asphalt, the sound echoing in the night.


    As the figure grew closer, the driver squeezed his eyes shut, bracing for impact, but the figure remained unnervingly calm, untouched by the chaos bearing down upon them.


    The car screeched to a halt, the blinding headlights cutting through the darkness to reveal a stunning woman standing in the middle of the road.


    She extended a single finger toward the oncoming truck, and, impossibly, the vehicle responded.


    It decelerated right where her finger rested, finally coming to a complete stop just as her finger lightly touched the truck''s front.


    The woman leisurely traced her finger along the side of the truck, her movements deliberate and confident as she strutted toward the driver''s door.


    The driver, trembling, slowly opened his eyes, his breath catching at the sight before him.


    The woman was stunning, her beauty so surreal that it seemed to defy all reason, leaving him in awe and disbelief.


    "Hey handsome, do you think you could help me?" The woman winked, and the driver practically melted in his seat, reduced to jelly by that simple, seductive gesture.


    Her hand moved with a slow, deliberate grace toward the handle of the car door, each motion seeming to draw him further under her spell.


    "I-I-I-I, y-y-y-yes." The man stuttered, his words fumbling over each other as his eyes remained completely entranced by her presence.


    He was so captivated that he didn''t even notice when she pulled open the car door, her every move drawing him deeper into a daze.


    *Gulp*


    "Do you need a rid-ah!" The man tried to speak, summoning what little courage he had, but before he could utter a word, the woman seized his collar with surprising strength.


    In one swift motion, she yanked him from the car and hurled him onto the road, leaving him stunned and sprawled on the pavement before her looming figure.


    "I do, but unfortunately, I don''t need a driver." The woman''s voice was cold yet commanding, her words dripping with menace despite the warmth of her smile.


    As the man lay dazed on the road, the woman''s eyes flashed a brilliant yellow, glowing with an otherworldly intensity that sent a shiver of fear crawling up his spine.


    Before he could react, she pulled out a small pistol, the cold metal glinting ominously in the dim light, jolting his mind back to reality.


    *Click*


    "W-WAIT-"


    *BANG*


    Raven was ruthless as she pulled the trigger, the bullet rocketing from her pistol and tearing through his forehead, leaving a small, gaping hole.


    Blood trickled from the wound as Raven''s body abruptly shifted, morphing into his appearance before she stepped into the car and resumed his life.


    Meanwhile at Juan''s compound,


    "BUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"


    A loud, roaring laughter echoed as the Gulf Cartel surrounded a poker table with Ricky, Juan, Chores, and two other men.


    The two additional figures were the current municipal president, Roberto F. Garci?a, and Juan''s right-hand man, Manuel Esteves.


    "Slick, you must tell another one!" A drunken Roberto roared towards Ricky, nodding his head as he peeked at his cards before clearing his throat.


    "Alright, alright." Ricky maneuvered his hands to quiet the roaring laughter, and the room gradually fell silent in anticipation.


    Meanwhile, Chores, Alexander, Barko, and Chester stood out of place to the side, still slightly perplexed by Ricky''s fluent Spanish.


    After stashing the $1.4 million worth of weed in his storage, courtesy of Chores, he found himself with nothing left to do.


    In fact, using this method brought consequences as Ricky''s ability to make money suddenly appear and then disappear left some of the cartel members feeling uneasy.


    Rumors began to spread that Ricky was a devil, possibly a mutant which created a clear tension at first.


    However, after he showed them a cross from the Vatican, any fear they had accumulated was swiftly washed away.


    In fact, Ricky was surprised to discover just how religious Juan and the other members were almost, or even more devout, then Italians.


    The rumors dwindled upon witnessing his affiliation with the church, yet Juan made it clear that neither he nor the cross he bore commanded respect but despite even this, the rumors persisted.


    During this time, Ricky wasn''t idle; he devoted himself wholeheartedly to drinking and trying to get closer to Rosa.


    Initially, he made a concerted effort to cozy up to her, but after realizing how blatantly she avoided him, he eased off and began to enjoy his vacation.


    His actions were subtle at first, but after joining the other Gulf Cartel members for drinks, he quickly fell into his usual pattern when drunk with others: he became fast friends with them.


    Chores, Alexander, Barko, and Chester felt like fish out of water, as none of them understood Spanish and they had no special ring to translate for them.


    So, they mostly talked among themselves, communicating in a mix of summon-to-summon and human-to-dog interactions.


    However, Chores and Barko began to realize, due to this sudden isolation, just how sentient Alexander and Chester truly were.


    Both Chester and Alexander had been passing the time playing Go Fish, and eventually, Chores and Barko couldn''t handle the boredom any longer and decided to join in.


    Surprisingly, they managed to find a way to communicate with each other, allowing them all to join in on the game.


    Chester quickly began dominating, destroying Chores and Barko, while Alexander consistently ended up in last place.


    As three days passed, Juan organized a lavish banquet in honor of their new big-ticket buyer, Ricky.


    The entire Gulf Cartel was in attendance, along with the municipal president and as the night progressed, the event culminated in a poker game.


    Ricky seized the opportunity to maximize his winnings, and by the end of the night, he had racked up around $75,000 from Juan, Manuel, and Roberto.


    Despite the cartel switching the cards after he won seven times in a row, Ricky continued to win without even needing to use his own cards.


    The method was quite simple, Ricky started telling jokes and, once he had everyone''s attention, Alexander and Chester would discreetly scope out the competitors'' cards.


    They agreed to help him only after he promised them snacks and warmed up to the gentle giant that was Chores.


    However, Chester flatly refused to reveal Chores cards to Ricky, as his good-natured honesty conflicted with the scheme, leaving Ricky slightly peeved and down $12,000 as a result.


    Ricky practically had to beg Alexander to help him in return that he fights in mighty battles to gain vast honor and glory, it was a weird request needless to say but Ricky still accepted with the slight downside that Alexander wouldn''t tell him Chores cards as well.


    "An army general suspects that his platoon of one hundred men are all banging his wife. One night, he decides to see if his suspicions are true. While his wife is sleeping, he gets up and inserts an anti-cheat device into his wife''s pussy. It''s shaped like a tiny razor blade that leaves small cuts.


    The next day, the general gathers all one hundred men. One by one, he asks them to pull down their pants and checks for cuts on their privates.


    He orders those with cuts to be shot on the spot. He continues down the line and is astonished to find that each and every soldier has a cut. He can''t believe it, every single one of them has had sex with his wife. That is, until he reaches the 100th soldier.


    This truthful soldier has no cuts on his dick. The general, proud of the soldier, says, ''Thank you, soldier, for being faithful and honoring the cause.''


    The soldier replies, ''Shank you thor dish means sho much cho me, I''m absholutle honored.''" Ricky slurred the last part of the joke, and after a moment of dead silence, a tidal wave of laughter rolls into the room as the majority get the punchline.


    "What do you got?" Ricky whispers to Alexander, who crawls up to his shoulder.


    "The man known as Maneul has what you call pocket aces." Alexander informed Ricky, who inhaled a deep breath of cold air.


    ''Oof, f*ck that.'' Ricky thought about how he didn''t want to lose any more money, even though it was a small fraction of his total winnings.


    Over the past three days, Ricky had netted two hundred thousand dollars, excluding today''s winnings, all thanks to Juan''s compulsive gambling.


    "I don''t get it." Manuel leaned over to Juan, who was dying of laughter, and whispered to him.


    "The soldier ate her out, Manuel." Juan cackled as he finished, and Manuel''s face gradually showed a look of realization.


    "Oooooooooooooooooo." Maneul nodded, the others bursting out into laughter at their friends'' nativity.


    "Okay, okay, everyone calm down so I can finally win!" Juan waved his hands, signaling for the surrounding members to stop laughing.


    Everyone placed their initial bets, and as Ricky''s greed began to fully manifest, he decided to lose a little to maintain his reliability.


    A 2, 8, and a jack of spades were revealed and Ricky immediately tossed his face cards to the center, signaling that he was folding.


    "Bad hand, Slick?" Juan joked as he raised the pot by a thousand, and everyone accepted the increase.


    "I just wanted to let you win for once." Ricky smirked as laughter echoed around the room and he began to light up a blunt.


    Juan scoffed but remained a good sport about it as the next card was revealed to be a nine, causing his eyes to twinkle.


    "fifteen thousand." Juan smirked as he raised the pot by a staggering amount, and everyone present understood that he must have a strong hand.


    "Ugh." Roberto grunted and folded, while Chores and Manuel remained firm in their stance.


    "Call." Maneul and Chores, both called Juan, didn''t hide his smile as he started playing with his chips.


    The last card was flipped, revealing a five of hearts but Juan, however, seemed indifferent to it as he pushed more chips into the center.


    "Raise twenty five thousand." Juan smirked, making Ricky let out a whistle though instead of backing down, Chores and Manual both called.


    "Let''s see those cards, boys!" Ricky said as Juan stood up with a puffed-out chest and threw down his cards first.


    "Pair of nine and eights!" Juan boasted as if victory were already assured, and Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "That man is really bad at poker." Chester commented from the side, shaking his head as he already knew the poor man''s fate.


    "Pocket ace''s" Manuel slapped down his cards, and Juan''s expression froze as he watched his bank account drain thirty-five thousand in real time.


    "Wait." Chores said to Manuel, who was about to reach for the chips, as he looked over to Ricky for a translation.


    "He said to wait, which means you lost." Ricky took a big puff of his rolled-up blunt, laughing as his assumption proved correct as all eyes turned to Chores'' cards.


    "Three of a kind." Chores set down his pair of jacks, causing everyone''s eyes to widen.


    Before Manuel could refute, he saw Chores stand up, his massive hands reaching into the center to grab the chips.


    "Manuel, I don''t want to be that guy, but if you try to intimidate Chores, you''ll end up with your face beaten into roadkill." Ricky said, pointing his blunt at Manuel as the latter now fully aware of the situation, realized the truth of Ricky''s words.


    "I want to buy in again." Juan, surprisingly not angry but determined to recover his losses, slapped fifty thousand into the center.


    A true gambler at heart.


    "Juan, are you sure that''s a good idea-"


    "I know I''ll win big, I just got to keep playing." Juan stopped Manuel as Ricky began laughing at his gambling addiction.


    "That''s the spirit cause 99% of people quit before they win big." Ricky joked, seeing a reflection of his former self in Juan before he acquired the numerous skills to cheat his way to victory.


    "YOU GET IT!" Juan pointed and let out a boisterous laugh, his addiction clearly solidified and just then, a random grunt emerged from the crowd.


    "NOW LET''S START THE NEXT ROUND-" Juan boisterously roared, only for the man to whisper something in his ear, causing him to freeze.


    Though his frozen demeanor was brief, a large smile slowly spread across his face before he turned to look at Ricky.


    *CLAP*


    "Slick, it''s here." Juan laughed as Ricky glanced over at Chores, who was gathering his chips and quickly understood.


    "Lead the way."


    Ricky was led to the last truck with an amused expression, finding it somewhat amusing how much of a big deal Juan was making out of this simple delivery.


    However, Ricky was slowly starting to understand why Juan wanted to make a good impression.


    He had begun to grasp the importance of connections in this line of business, which made Juan''s efforts seem more reasonable.


    "Boss." Raven hopped out of the truck, saluting Juan as he laughed heartily and gave her a friendly tap on the shoulder.


    "Here my friend, for your troubles." Juan slipped fifty dollars into her front pocket before turning toward Ricky.


    "So Slick, did I deliver or what!" Juan laughed in excitement as Ricky looked towards Chores and Barko.


    Barko hopped onto the back before he started doing the math on each and every bag along with the value corresponding to it.


    "It''s all here, Slick!" Barko hopped onto the back of the truck and began calculating the value of each bag, meticulously tallying the corresponding amounts.


    Raven widened her eyes at this as Juan chuckled, patting her shoulder while Ricky began tossing the remaining $600,000 into his space after closing the curtains.


    It was sloppy to make these goods disappear, but it was already unusual that he had managed to make them disappear in the first place.


    That''s why Ricky decided to let their minds fill in the blanks rather than reveal the key to his storage space.


    "Don''t worry my friend, he''s not a warlock but a man of the vatican." Juan mistook Raven''s reaction as anxious, opening the curtain to reveal that the goods were completely gone.


    "I apologize for my reaction, boss." Raven spoke, her eyes flashing yellow as she glanced to the side.


    Raven saw Chores dusting off his overly large hands after carrying the bags full of weed and walking with Barko, who was happily yapping about something.


    ''Are they mutants?'' Raven thought, keeping her cool, as Ricky walked out with the last bag.


    "And this is the last of it Juan." Ricky tossed the bag, and Juan, with a look of contempt, caught it in his embrace.


    "Now, the most important part." Ricky spoke seriously, causing both Juan and Raven to freeze at his intense demeanor.


    "LET''S F*CKING GET SHWASTED!" Ricky pulled out one of Juan''s tequila bottles, and everyone began cheering, except for one person.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA, I LOVE THIS GRINGO!" Juan laughed, pulling Ricky closer as he began chugging the bottle and pumping his fist in celebration.


    *SIGH*


    "Oh boy." Barko commented while Chores pinched the bridge of his nose, and Chester perched himself on Chores'' shoulder while looking at Alexander with a deep sigh.


    "YES YOUNG RICKY, LET US TOAST TO THE GODS AND BECOME INFATUATED WITH THE DRUNKEN TASTE OF FREEDOM!" Alexander roared in excitement, encouraging this behavior before Ricky let go.


    "LET''S MAKE SOME MISTAKES!"


    As Ricky started the party, Raven and a few other grunts were tasked with storing the bags filled with money in the vault beneath Juan''s compound.


    "Tsk, why do we always get stuck with these boring tasks." A grunt huffed as the other''s nodded along.


    "What is the whole deal with that gringo anyways?" Raven asked as the grunt sighed while shaking his head.


    "That is the man known as ''Slick'' who is from the Luciano family." The grunt informed Raven unknowingly, nodding since she vaguely knew of the mafia''s up north.


    "I heard he has the devil''s powers." A grunt chimed in as Raven''s head jerked over to his right.


    Mutants were called various names in different regions of the world however in Mexico they were called devils as there was a folk tale that they were all satan''s spawns which sprouted into the america''s, primarily down south.


    "And no one has burned him at the stake?" Raven asked, since only a year earlier she was almost burned alive for being a supposed devil''s spawn.


    "We cannot burn someone from the church at the stake; that would be sacrilegious." The grunt said as Raven tilted her head in confusion.


    "Oh, I forgot Luis, you weren''t here when that man showed his cross." The grunt yawned, informing Raven which only made her flinch.


    "He was saying that his powers weren''t a gift by the devil, but in fact a blessing from God and the cross simply shows his words." One chimed in.


    "I and some others argued but the gringo checked out, he really has a cross from the vatican." The grunt shrugged since although it was weird, their local priest checked the cross before verifying it was in fact the real deal.


    Raven opened her mouth in shock but slowly closed it as she continued walking with the bags of money as she stopped in front of the vault.


    Her eyes scanned around to see only four people gathering around the vault before she went to place the bag of money in the vault though right before she could carry out the plan, a nagging feeling persisted.


    Mutants in this day and age were rarer compared to their future counterparts in the diaries she read.


    When they did appear, Raven often found that they were hidden away in the deepest depths of society.


    Discrimination and fear were commonplace for herself and her kind yet these simpletons were describing Ricky as if he was one of them, even though she was 99% sure he was a mutant.


    Raven, in her entire life, had never felt she could fit in with regular people, even when adopting another identity.


    Yet, Ricky had managed not only to seamlessly integrate with the average person but also to barely hide his powers, as if he didn''t care whether they were revealed.


    ''I need to meet him.'' Raven''s eyes were firm as she threw the bag on the ground, resolved to stay until she discovered whether Ricky was truly a mutant or just pretending.


    Raven had glimpsed some semblance of Ricky''s storage key before he made it disappear.


    While she had encountered many magical artifacts in her time and wasn''t easily shocked, she wanted to be completely sure.


    "Luis, where are you going, we-"


    "I need to take a sh*t." Raven strutted around the corner before her appearance changed as the other four looked at each other but shrugged, letting the man do his business.


    Raven trekked through the halls before walking to the second story, gazing over the railing that highlighted the interior of the courtyard as the party took place down below.


    "Slick, I think you should slow down-"


    "SLOWING DOWN IS FOR THE WEAK!" Ricky roared out as he took a puff from his blunt, chasing it with another swig of tequila.


    Raven rolled her eyes, her fingers gliding along the railing as she watched him down shot after shot.


    Looking around the second floor, she noticed a few people lingering, but her attention quickly settled on a particular girl who was staring at Ricky with intense desire.


    Raven slowly made her way to the tucked-away corner, where the girl, oblivious to Raven''s presence, was revealed to be Rosa.


    Rosa was so absorbed in her thoughts that she didn''t even realize Raven was nearby.


    "Love struck blues?" Raven asked as Rosa flinched, her eyes immediately darting to Raven''s figure which had transformed into a beautiful woman.


    "N-No I-I-"


    "Oh come on honey, I''m not naive enough to not see the butterflies in your eyes when you gaze at that gringo down there." Raven snaked her way closer, her curiosity piqued by how strangely familiar Rosa seemed.


    "I can''t-"


    "Why not?" Raven pressed onto Rosa''s fragile being, moving closer as Rosa started backing up.


    "B-Because Juan will get angry." Rosa whispered something under her breath, prompting Raven to raise an eyebrow.


    She glanced over to the courtyard and caught sight of Juan dancing with a bucket over his head.


    "I''m Camilia by the way." Raven extended her hand, and though Rosa avoided eye contact, she still reached out and shook it.


    "Rosa." Rosa spoke shyly, confirming Raven''s suspicions, though she still wanted to gauge her a little further.


    "So Rosa, would you mind telling me why the sister of the leader of the Gulf Cartel is shyly waiting here instead of mingling with Slick over there?" Raven curiously asked while observing her surroundings.


    "W-What do you-"


    "Oh come on Rosa, you''re obviously into that Ricky or Slick or whatever his name is." Raven waved her hand as she didn''t understand the whole nickname dynamic.


    "I-I shouldn''t get close, he might get in trouble." Rosa shook her head, nervously twirling her hair between her fingers as Raven''s eyes gleamed, studying her intently.


    "Come here, darling." Raven grabbed Rosa and led the anxious girl into a nearby bathroom as the guards, who were supposed to be watching her, began to move in.


    "Wait, Camilia-"


    "Do you see that girl there?" Raven pointed, and Rosa followed her gaze, seeing her own reflection in the bathroom mirror.


    "Yes?" Rosa affirmed as Raven placed her hands on Rosa''s shoulders, the girl seemed to ask a silent question with her wide, uncertain eyes.


    "That girl is Rosa Gurreia, the cherished sister of Juan Gurria." Raven smiled, which only seemed to deepen Rosa''s confusion.


    "T-That is true but-"


    "But that same girl has a problem." Raven shook her head with a sad expression, which only heightened Rosa''s anxiety and made her increasingly paranoid.


    "W-What''s wrong?" Rosa asked, her voice trembling, as Raven slid to her side.


    "She doesn''t have a backbone." Raven sighed, causing Rosa to fall silent, caught off guard by the directness and warmth of her approach.


    "I have-"


    "Shut up, Rosa." Raven interrupted her in a demanding tone as Rosa looked down.


    "Y-Yes." Rosa spoke, but her words faltered as her eyes widened, gazing up at the woman she had become.


    "Your childhood must''ve been rough, right dear?" Raven asked, her gaze steady, as Rosa''s eyes seemed to reflect the harsh streets where she and her brother struggled daily for food, enduring their father''s neglectful parenting tactics.


    "You only had your brother to lean on, and while that was the greatest gift you could have received, it was also a curse." Raven said, pulling Rosa into her embrace and hugging her gently.


    "But just because he guided you through your childhood doesn''t mean you should give up and follow whatever he says." Raven continued as she released Rosa, who started to tear up, and gently caressed her cheek.


    "Follow your heart and if that leads you to that alcoholic, then go for it." Raven smiled as Rosa nodded, then slowly slid behind her.


    *Sniff*


    "Thank you Camilia, I''ll do it. I''ll go talk to him-"


    "Tomorrow, since I need to borrow your identity today." Raven swiftly locked Rosa into a full nelson, cutting off her air supply.


    "KERUK!" Rosa''s eyes widened in horror as she saw the girl she knew as Camila slowly transform into her own reflection.


    In the next moment, Rosa''s body went limp, and Raven swiftly caught her, dragging her unconscious form into the stall.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    "Rosa are you-"


    "I-I-I''m fine." Raven used Rosa''s voice to stutter shyly, causing the men outside the door to exchange puzzled glances and shrug.


    After a few moments, the door creaked open, and Raven timidly ducked her head, twirling her hair between her fingers as the two guards, rubbing their necks, looked at each other in confusion.


    "Rosa, we didn''t mean to-"


    "N-No, it''s ok." Raven acted out perfectly, making her voice grow weaker with every word spoken.


    "Excuse me." Raven ducked her head and scurried away, leaving the two guards to sigh in relief.


    "Dammit Pablo, you know how she is with conversations." The guard said, while Pablo rubbed his forehead in frustration.


    "Whatever, as long she''s safe." Pablo shrugged, walking after her to resume their guard as Raven walked down to the first floor.


    "Hold up, I need to take a piss." Ricky suddenly handed a half-empty bottle of tequila to Chores, who scrunched his eyebrows in confusion.


    "Why is it sticky?" Chores asked Ricky, who instead of answering, started laughing as Chores'' scrunched expression started to grow horrified by the second.


    "SLICK, WHY IS THE BOTTLE STICKY!"


    Ricky laughed as he stumbled toward a couple of bushes, unzipped his pants, and relieved himself, letting the pent-up liquor flow out.


    *PSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS*


    "Ah~" Ricky let out a relieved breath, savoring the moment, until he scrunched his brow and turned his gaze toward Rosa''s direction.


    ''He felt my presence?'' Raven gave Ricky full marks for his instinct, noting that not even an animal could have heard her footsteps.


    "Rosa, you do know I have my cock out right now?" Ricky joked in a weirdly forward and flirty manner, making direct eye contact with Raven.


    She ducked her gaze, but not before sneaking a quick glance at his member, a little surprised while forcing down a mischievous smirk.


    ''A+'' Raven thought to herself as she timidly grabbed the ends of her skirt, remaining silent until Ricky finished pissing.


    "Hello?" Ricky asked while slowly wobbling over to her, only for Raven to take three steps back.


    "I-I heard you have the devil''s powers, is that true?" Raven asked, prompting Ricky to raise an eyebrow before shrugging.


    "I don''t really call it that-"


    "But it is, it is the devil''s powers and-"


    "You don''t believe the words you said." Ricky interrupted Raven''s own interrupting question as his lie detection kicked in, causing Raven to bite her lip in response.


    "Please tell me." Raven tried to meet Ricky''s gaze but quickly shifted her eyes back down.


    "Yeah, I''m a mutant, is that a turn off for you or something?" Ricky asked only for Raven to reply with a fake blush.


    "Guess not." Ricky flashed a smile, deciding to show off as he used his powers to create steps out of thin air, starting to walk up them as Raven watched in shock.


    "Cool, right?" Ricky laughed out, spreading his arms as Raven''s gaze trailed up tohim seemingly standing in the air.


    ''So, he is a mutant.'' Raven thought before clasping her hands together.


    "I heard-.....I heard their really mean to the people with devil''s powers-"


    "Eh, who cares." Ricky shrugged without letting her finish, Raven ducking her head to hide the twitch in her eyebrow.


    Hopping off the psychic structure, Ricky stood in front of Raven once more as he sought to lift her chin with his hand only for Raven to take another step back.


    "Why don''t you care?" Raven asked, deciding to quench her curiosity even further which made Ricky sigh while scratching his head.


    "Cause why should I care about what people beneath me say?" Ricky honestly spoke since after coming to this world and gaining powers, his usual sheepishness had disappeared as he more or less acted however he wanted to.


    In his past life, it wasn''t unusual to get one-sidedly beaten up by his loan sharks after they pointed a gun at him, but after gaining powers Ricky shed that part of him and became who he was always meant to be.


    A total narcissistic, self entitled, asshole, and he made sure to let everyone know about it.


    ''Huh?'' Raven was baffled at Ricky''s straight forward response.


    "But don''t they try to kill your kind-"


    "Look, people are always going to kill people and the same goes for mutants or whatever the f*ck you call them." Ricky honestly didn''t want to get into this topic as he''d rather get into Rosa''s pants.


    "And yeah, although I haven''t met any wacko''s who want to kill me for being a mutant I''d rather not worry about it." Ricky shrugged and continued to close the distance between himself and Raven, who kept backing away.


    "Because why worry about a future that you don''t know what will happen-"


    "What if you did." Raven spoke dryly, irritated by how effortlessly Ricky embodied everything she wasn''t, causing her facade to slip slightly.


    Ricky''s movements halted as he realized she wasn''t lying or asking a question; she was implying she knew the truth.


    "Rosa what are-"


    "What if you knew the future?" Raven asked seriously as Ricky raised an eyebrow while showing a confused look.


    "Isn''t that like-.......impossible?" Ricky scratched his head since in every movie he''s ever heard, the main thing that came with all that bullsh*t was how the future wasn''t set in stone.


    "What?" Raven chuckled instantly at his half assed response before immediately covering her mouth since it was out of character for Rosa.


    "It''s just-ugh, this is hard to explain.'''' Ricky rubbed his head, trying to find the right words to say, while Raven couldn''t help but smile at the sight of him.


    "Ok, say in one instance you live out your whole life, alright?" Ricky suddenly said as he started to go off the butterfly effect movie starring Ashten cuctochor or whatever his name is, Ricky couldn''t remember anymore.


    "Then for some reason your past self learns the entirety of his future life from a young age." Ricky spoke, still struggling to find the right words, but Raven understood more or less what he was trying to convey.


    "Ok and?" Raven asked, since she also didn''t really understand what he was going with this sentence but understood the current scenario.


    "Well, unless that younger self acts exactly like his future self then the future wouldn''t change, but that''s impossible since his other self didn''t know the future unlike his younger self." Ricky tried to explain, but he was honestly too wasted to really formulate it right and that showed as Raven looked immensely confused, before her eyes suddenly widened.


    "And let''s say the younger self remembers that in one year that he''s gonna lose 10k on a bet, would he bet on that same person again cause I wouldn''t-"


    "What if the future predictions weren''t specific but instead a vague premonition of future events?" Raven suddenly asked a question, while Ricky rubbed his head, his drunken mind clearly running on fumes at this point.


    "That''s just complicated cause like, what if interfering and trying stop the future causes it however I''d say if one future thingy comes out false then-"


    "It will immediately invalidate the others and cause questions for the other predictions." Raven urgently started thinking about her whole reasoning for doing all the events that had occurred till now.


    ''Have I been relying too much on Irene''s visions.'' Raven thought to herself as she sat down on a nearby bench, while Ricky clutched his stomach.


    ''I need talk with Irene about these diaries once more since this man makes some good points-''


    "BLERGH!" Ricky vomited in a nearby bush as he hadn''t paced himself at all while Raven''s expression became plain.


    "What was your name again?" Raven asked since she had really come to like Ricky''s rough edges as she thought of it as charming, but also incredibly stupid and annoying.


    "You felt that connection too? Well I guess I can tell you the name of your future husband." Ricky gave a charming response that made Raven chuckle, realizing how unusual it was for her to act out of character from the persona she had taken on.


    "Oh yeah? Then who is it?" Raven asked as Ricky leaned on the wall and gestured to himself.


    "The one and only Ricky Luciano baby, the only man that will make you-BLERGH!" Ricky said only for him to continue vomiting again as Raven started laughing hysterically at him.


    "Well, until we meet again Slick-"


    "Call me Ricky and where are you going-BLERGH!" Ricky started vomiting again as his stomach was a mess as Raven started laughing as her hips swayed while walking away.


    "Then, till we meet again, Ricky." Raven side-eyed Ricky as her eyes flashed yellow.


    "Wait-"


    *THUMP*


    Ricky couldn''t even chase after her to continue putting on the moves as he stumbled before passing out due to the continuous mix of weed and liquor.


    ''I wonder when the last time I''ve laughed like that.'' Raven wiped her eyes with a smile as she turned the corner, shifting into the appearance of Luis.


    ''Now it''s time for mommy too get some more spending money~''

 Chapter 59 - 58: Truly Meeting The One

    Chapter 59: Chapter 58: Truly Meeting The One


    As Raven walked down the dimly lit hallway, her fingers deftly loaded a pistol, the soft click of the chamber barely audible.


    With practiced ease, she slipped the weapon into the concealed holster at her waist, her pace steady as she approached the safe.


    *Click*


    *Click*


    The echo of Raven''s footsteps caught the attention of the four men, their hands instinctively reaching for their guns.


    But as they caught sight of Luis emerging from the shadows, they hesitated, lowering their weapons in recognition.


    "What took you so long, Luis?"


    "Must''ve been one hell of a stinker!"


    "You were probably up there drinking and having the time of your life, instead doing your job."


    "Alright it''s my turn, I got a fully loaded bladder ready to go!"


    The four men unleashed a rapid volley of words, but to Raven, time seemed to slow.


    She started analyzing every movement, calculating her next move with precision as the chaos unfolded around her.


    ''The one on the right goes first, then the second on the left, the one in the middle, and I''ll finish with the one clutching his crotch.'' Raven calculated swiftly, mapping out each move with cold precision.


    Yet, even as her plan crystallized in her mind, her hand remained still, the gun concealed at her waist as she held her ground, not yet ready to make her move.


    Raven patiently waited, aware that in moments like these, a single second could mean the difference between life and death.


    As the bladder-filled man rushed past her, she moved with precision and in one fluid motion, she drew her pistol and leveled it straight at the only man still gripping his rifle, her focus unshakable.


    *BANG*


    The bullet casing ejected from the chamber, spinning through the air as the shot rang out.


    The projectile sliced through the space between them with deadly precision, its trajectory unerringly aimed at the man''s forehead.


    *BANG*


    The first bullet hadn''t even reached its mark before Raven fired again as the second shot tore through the air, this time aimed at the man on the far left, who was just reaching for his hunting rifle.


    *BANG*


    With a swift flick of her wrist, Raven adjusted her aim, her finger pressing the trigger once more.


    The pistol responded with a sharp crack, sending another bullet soaring, it''s spent casing clinking to the ground in a metallic celebration.


    *SPALT*


    *SPALT*


    *SPALT*


    Blood splattered across the wall behind them, creating a gruesome canvas of crimson and brain matter.


    The three men collapsed helplessly forward, unable to witness the impeccable artistry their blood and brain matter had painted behind them.


    Each had a single, precise hole in their forehead, their lives snuffed out in an instant as the life dimmed from their eyes.


    "W-What was that-"


    *BANG*


    Without a second glance, Raven fired a shot behind her, the motion fluid and instinctive as she continued down the hall, her pace unbroken, as the echo of the gunshot faded into the silence.


    *SPLAT*


    *THUMP*


    The man behind her crumpled lifelessly to the floor as Raven moved with effortless grace toward the safe.


    Her expression remained carefree, almost nonchalant, as she paused by the fallen men.


    With a practiced touch, she began patting down the middle one''s pockets, searching for what she needed.


    "I might have felt some remorse for killing you all if I hadn''t known that the Gulf Cartel has been abducting young girls and selling them into the sex trafficking ring," Raven sneered, her voice cold.


    Despite the severity of the revelation, she was unfazed; it was hardly the most abhorrent thing she had encountered in the underworld.


    *CLICK*


    After methodically using the various keys, Raven finally unlocked the safe. Inside, the duffle bags piled up, revealing a staggering two million dollars.


    The sight of the cash, stacked neatly and waiting, met her gaze with an almost tangible promise of power and reward.


    "Come to mama~"


    30 minutes later,


    "Luis?" A man asked as he watched Raven push a cart brimming with money bags, each covered by a light white cloth.


    *SIGH*


    "The boss is sending me back to deliver this cargo." Raven sighed, her face reflecting a hint of frustration as the man shook his head in disbelief.


    "Well, that''s the boss for you." The man showed an understanding expression.


    "But she''s ready to haul whatever you need." The man tapped the car and lowered the drawbridge, which formed a ramp.


    He then helped Raven maneuver the cart, but as it rolled into the car, the cloth covering it caught on the wheel and was pulled off, revealing the bags of money underneath.


    "What is-"


    *BANG*


    *Thump*


    Raven didn''t bother with an excuse, knowing it would waste precious time as she pulled the trigger, splattering his brain against the back of the truck.


    His body slumped lifelessly against the nearest wall, his vacant eyes reflecting Raven as she hopped off the truck and raised the drawbridge.


    With a content smile, Raven climbed into the driver''s seat, turned on the radio, and started humming a tune as she drove away.


    "Ricky."


    "Ricky!"


    "RICKY!"


    "Huh?" Ricky''s eyes fluttered open to a scene of chaos, with men scrambling about in a frantic rush.


    Chores loomed over him, while Chester perched on his shoulders, both observing the commotion before shifting their gaze to the side.


    "TAKE UP YOUR ARMS FOUL CREATURE, FOR I SHALL SLAY YOU WHERE YOU STAND!" Alexander let out a drunken roar from the side, adorned in his armor as he stood before the mighty Barko.


    "Can you please stop-Slick''s gerbil, please stop." Barko swatted at him with his paw, but Alexander emerged aggressively three times in quick succession.


    "YOU SHALL NOT STOP MY THIRST FOR YOUR BLOOD!" Alexander charged in, only to be swiped away by Barko''s paw as Ricky weirdly looked at the scene.


    "Listen closely, two hours ago someone killed Juan''s men and made off with all the money given for the deal." Chores hurriedly explained to Ricky, currently rubbing his head while reaching into his coat pocket.


    *GULP*


    *GULP*


    *Sigh*


    "Truly a lost cause." Chester sighed, shaking his head as he watched Ricky down the remainder of his flask.


    "Slick-"


    "Calm down, it''s not like it''s our fault that they couldn''t keep the money safe." Ricky put the flask back in his shirt pocket as he stood up.


    "I understand your point Slick, but the blame might fall on us if no recourse is taken on your part." Barko pushed the drunken gerbil away while Chores nodded along.


    "Slick, we think the best action to take is to affirm your stance with Juan and make sure to assure him that we had nothing to do with this." Chores insisted, helping Ricky up as Chester hopped off his shoulder and swooped down to grab Alexander.


    "UNHAND ME!" Alexander shouted, but his voice was drowned out and ignored.


    Chester, meanwhile, settled himself on Ricky''s shoulder, carefully stowing the drunken Alexander into his shirt pocket.


    "Alexander, you need to calm down." Chester said to Alexander, who was struggling to regain his footing inside Ricky''s pocket


    "Where is this-"


    "I SHALL NOT BE SILENCED AND ALL OF YOU WILL FEEL MY WRAITH!" Alexander squirmed inside Ricky''s pocket, causing the man to scrunch his brows in irritation as he glanced at the unruly gerbil stirring in the pocket.


    *DINK*


    Ricky flicked Alexander''s forehead, causing his eyes to roll back immediately before he slumped back into the once-panicked pocket.


    "Where''s Juan?" Ricky asked as Barko took the lead, accurately sniffing out Juan, who was furiously pacing in his conference room.


    "PUT A BOUNTY OUT ON THEIR HEAD, FIFTY THOUSAND TO WHOEVER CATCHES THAT BASTARD!" Juan spat out a vicious remark just as Ricky burst through the door.


    Juan and his men turned their attention to him, their expressions a mix of surprise and hostility.


    "Hey Juan." Ricky gave a casual wave as he pulled up a stool and took a seat, rubbing his forehead with a weary expression.


    "SLICK, WHERE HAVE YOU-"


    "Passed out in your garden, and lower your tone," Ricky informed him, correcting his earlier outburst.


    Juan opened his mouth to respond but closed it again, adjusting himself as he prepared to address Ricky.


    "I apologize Slick, I''m just very stressed and angry after finding out that not only was my precious sister found unconscious in the bathroom, but the money in our deal had been stolen." Juan said as Ricky yawned but nodded before Barko nudged his leg.


    "Oh yeah, I didn''t steal your money." Ricky clarified, Chores facepalming and Juan raised his eyebrow.


    "If that is true then show your-"


    *SIGH*


    "Fine, but I get to slap you in the face once you find that there isn''t any money in there." Ricky stretched his arm, but Juan froze at the absurd request along with everyone in the room.


    "What?" Juan incredulously asked for him to repeat himself, Ricky shrugging at his reply.


    "I don''t care if you doubt me, but if you want me to go out of my way then I''ll need something in return." Ricky leaned on the counter and noticed a half-rolled joint and without hesitation, he began rolling it up with practiced ease.


    "But you-" Juan opened his mouth to retort but noticed Chores shaking his head, a silent signal that arguing would be futile.


    "F-Fine." Juan said as Ricky nodded while pulling out his forever lighter and lighting the joint before pulling out the key.


    Ricky gestured for Juan to follow him, leading him around the corner before opening the storage space.


    As Juan approached, he was abruptly knocked back by an invisible force. Ricky then allowed him entry, and Juan walked in, immediately beginning his search.


    The area, as expansive as a small warehouse, was carefully navigated by Juan.


    However, the only money he found was the dirty cash Ricky had left over from robbing the Jewish supply house, totaling around $150,000.


    "It''s really not here." Juan left the storage space, clearly baffled.


    He had expected Ricky to deny him access to the mysterious storage space entirely, not to find the meager stash that was there and as he walked out, his face was a picture of confusion.


    Ricky rubbed his hands together and handed his joint to Chester, who gave him a deadpan look but accepted it, holding it for him with a resigned sigh.


    "Alright, hold still." Ricky said, turning Juan around while raising his hand.


    "Wait I-"


    *SLAP*


    Ricky slapped Juan, causing his head to snap to the side as Juan was propelled into the air, and his men watched in shock as the scene unfolded before their eyes where he flew out from the corner.


    *Thump*


    As Juan fell to the ground, his shoes remained neatly positioned in front of Ricky, a testament to the force of the slap that had sent him tumbling out of them.


    "Thanks Chester." Ricky said as he reclaimed the joint from Chester, who nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Anyways, we''ll help you get back all the money but I''m gonna need 250,000 for my services." Ricky inhaled the last of the joint, then flicked the remains to the side with a casual gesture.


    "That''s a little-"


    "Listen Juan, I''m gonna get my money but I''ve been out fooooooooooor-"


    "Two hours." Chores saw that Ricky didn''t remember, deciding to help him out rather than let this conversation draw out anymore.


    "So whoever stole your money has a two hour head start, which I doubt you''d be able to stop them, so for every second you don''t take this deal then your losing out on-"


    "OK, OK!" Juan stopped Ricky, his desperation evident as the night had made it impossible to follow the tracks, leaving him with no viable leads.


    "It''s such a delight doing business with you." Ricky said, strolling towards the exit only to turn back to him.


    "Hey Juan, do you mind if I borrow a car?"


    4 hours later,


    Driving down the dirt road, Ricky tapped rhythmically on the pristine leather steering wheel.


    After Juan reluctantly allowed him to take one of his cars, Ricky chose the most luxurious Ford, customized to Juan''s specific taste.


    Juan watched with a pained expression as Ricky drove off with Chores and Barko.


    Utilizing Chester''s night vision, Ricky followed his lead and Chester''s enhanced sight allowed them to track where the truck had left, revealing details that the others had missed.


    Chester dove down and perched on Ricky''s window, his wings beating softly as Ricky glanced at him, awaiting the signal or information Chester had gathered.


    "I found it." Chester spoke, and Ricky nodded in acknowledgment as Chester took to the air again, allowing Ricky to see clearly.


    Ricky activated his shared sight with Chester, spotting a truck in the distance, making its way along the dirt road.


    Meanwhile, Raven sang along to a popular hit on the radio, confident she would reach the continental before sunrise.


    However, her eyes suddenly darted to the side, sensing something amiss as headlights appeared in the horizon.


    "How?" Raven glanced in confusion as headlights appeared behind her, cutting through the darkness.


    Given her ability to see well in the dark, she had no need for headlights herself, making her presence all the more elusive.


    To avoid detection, she had even taken the back dirt roads and all the while they still managed to find her which baffled her to no avail.


    Meanwhile, Ricky slammed on the gas, the car surging forward as the truck gradually came into clearer view against the darkened landscape.


    "I have to know, can you communicate with your pet Crow?" Barko had remained mostly silent despite his unusual reactions, but after witnessing Ricky engage in brief conversations with Chester, his curiosity could no longer be contained.


    "Yep." Ricky confirmed Barko''s suspicion, leaving him utterly gobsmacked.


    Chores, however, wasn''t surprised by anything anymore, having grown accustomed to the unpredictable nature of their situation.


    "Chores, how are you so calm, Slick can literally talk to animals!" Barko said ironically, as Chores sighed and pointed at him, a gesture that indicated his growing frustration or resignation.


    "You''re literally a talking dog." Chores'' words made Ricky chuckle, causing Barko to freeze momentarily before he cleared his throat, attempting to regain his composure.


    "But-"


    "I can literally juggle refrigerators and Slick can generate force fields with his mind, what''s the point of being surprised at weird phenomenons if we are literally walking weird phenomenons." Chores said something that left Barko wanting to refute his words, but in the end, he remained silent, unable to come up with a rebuttal.


    *BANG*


    *DINK*


    "Woah." Ricky remarked as he unconsciously activated a force field around himself.


    The bullet crumpled inward, losing all its momentum before slowly dropping into Ricky''s lap.


    *SIGH*


    "Of course it''s the arrogant pretty boy." Raven sighed as she saw Ricky''s narcissistic filled smile through her rear view mirror.


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    The bullet never came close to hitting the car as Ricky calmly brought the vehicle closer and turned his attention to Barko.


    "Slick, are you okay-"


    "Barko, take the wheel." Ricky spoke, not waiting for a response.


    He let go of the situation, rolled down the window, and climbed out of the car while heading towards the roof.


    "WAIT, RICKY THE PEDAL-"


    "I got it." Chores saw Barko''s struggle and leaned over, lightly pressing the steering pedal forward as Barko started driving.


    "This is so much harder with paws, man, I miss my thumbs." Barko voiced his frustration aloud as he watched Ricky climb onto the hood of the car.


    Raven, frowning at the sight, quickly weighed her options before slamming on the brakes, causing Ricky''s eyes to widen in surprise.


    Chores reacted first, punching the door of the Ford so hard that it flew off its hinges, then burying his left hand into the dirt road.


    Despite his efforts, the car swerved to the right but wasn''t stopped in time.


    As the vehicle neared a collision that could decapitate Chores and Barko, Ricky activated his force field.


    The Ford crashed into the force field, and Ricky was launched forward as he didn''t attempt to halt his momentum; instead, his body was perfectly aligned with the back cargo hold, absorbing the impact.


    Chores grabbed Barko and jumped from the Ford, rolling to the side as Raven glanced at the mirror, assuming the commotion was caused by Ricky.


    She returned her gaze to the front, remaining vigilant for the next few minutes before allowing herself to relax slightly.


    *Dink*


    "Hey, could you unlock the door-" Ricky tapped on the window of the passenger side door, only to have a gun pointed at his face in response.


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    *BANG*


    Raven instinctively whipped her pistol to the side, shooting three times as Ricky moved his head out of the way and seeing the window shatter.


    "Is that a no?" Ricky asked, but received no answer as he peeked his head into the car, finding Raven squinting her eyes at him.


    "How." Raven asked with a single word, and Ricky smiled, pointing to the door as she frowned but proceeded to unlock it.


    "Ah, the refreshing heat~" Ricky sighed in relief, opening the door before putting his hands on the heater of the car as Raven frowned deeper.


    "How did you-"


    "You see that crow?" Ricky asked, pointing to the window.


    Raven side-eyed it while keeping half her focus on Ricky, noticing a crow neatly perched outside her windshield.


    "Magical?" Raven inquired while Ricky thought about it for a second compliance.


    "Sure, why not." Ricky shrugged, Raven confused whether it was a magical crow at this point but decided to let it go.


    "I''m Ricky." Ricky held out his hand, and the currently disguised Raven raised an eyebrow but shook it.


    "Luis."


    *DING*


    [Mission received: Raven Darkh?lme]


    Difficulty: Hard


    Character Sheet: S


    Description: Raven is an ageless time piece who has fought hard against father time in order to keep her luxurious curves and drop dead gorgeous body. Gifted the ability to take any appearance, even time cannot shed her beauty as it is ageless. Her heart, however, has already been sworn to Irene Adler; however her needs are still on the table. However although Irene gives her so much, she can''t give her the family you can and that is your biggest strength.


    Objective: Knock up the famous and fierce Raven who can only be described as breedable.


    Reward: 100,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once:


    Rewards: 300 Gacha or Raven''s Powers


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnate Raven while she''s still in a relationship with Irene(Incomplete):


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Ruin sex for Raven(Incomplete):


    Reward: Legendary Skill Coupon


    Make raven question her love with Irene while you Impregnate her(Incomplete):


    Reward: +5 Intelligence


    Have Raven profess her want to have your children(Incomplete):


    Reward: Legendary Weapon Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ''Oh f*ck yes.''


    "You''re a little liar." Ricky accepted without hesitation, skimming the description and silently praying to the Lord above that this was one of her changed appearances.


    "I''m not-fine." Raven tried to refute his words, but he responded with a dumb smile.


    Realizing it might be easier to just show herself, she decided to reveal another identity.


    "Happy, this is my-"


    "No, it''s not." Ricky watched as Raven morphed into a beautiful woman, but he could immediately tell she was lying.


    He corrected her with a knowing look once more as Raven furrowed her brows, sensing something was off.


    Despite changing her appearance four more times, Ricky still saw through her deceptions, confirming that he could sense lies.


    ''So he can even tell when I''m lying, but it seems like it only works when I respond to him.'' Raven easily deduced this, given that her detective skills were among the most prominent in history.


    "Fine, but I warned you." Raven thought, already readying herself for Ricky''s disgusted expression.


    Then before Ricky''s anticipating eyes, her true form was revealed to him in all its glory as he widened his eyes in shock.


    *THUMP*


    Her ethereal beauty captivated his entire sight, his heart thumping out of his chest as his breath halted in place..


    Her skin, an enchanting hue of cerulean, shimmers like the midnight sky, tracing the contours of her lithe, athletic form.


    Eyes, the color of rare golden gemstones, peer out from a face of otherworldly grace, their depths concealing mysteries known only to her.


    Bathed in the moonlit glow, her silhouette tells a tale of elegance and power, her every movement a ballet of fluidity and poise.


    She is not merely a woman; she is a living work of art, an embodiment of allure and enigma.


    "I warned you-" Raven misinterpreted his gaze and forced a fake smile, only to be stunned by words she never expected to hear upon revealing her true appearance for the first time in front of someone new.


    "Marry me." Ricky instinctively spoke once his breath was finally restored after being stolen by Raven''s beauty.


    *Pffffft*


    "What?" Raven was caught off guard once again, laughing heartily at Ricky''s serious and bold words.


    "I''ve officially fallen for you, please marry me." Ricky spoke seriously, his heart skipping a beat as he gazed at Raven.


    He couldn''t quite describe it, but when he looked at her, he felt an intense, almost magnetic connection that made him not want to look away, even if she herself couldn''t yet understand it.


    "That was you yesterday when Rosa came to ''talk'' to me about being a mutant, right?" Ricky suddenly realized, widening his eyes and pointing at Raven who merely smiled at him.


    "Are you mad?" Raven had a playful smile, chuckling at his love struck expression as he raised his smile.


    "I''m not mad since sometimes in relationships, both people lie, but I feel like we can really get through this." Ricky eased her non-existent worries as Raven started laughing even harder after realizing he was serious as he continued.


    "Okay, how about this: to help us through this rough patch, let me take you to the finest dinner money can buy here in Mexico, and then we''ll celebrate by staying in the most luxurious hotel suite I can find. What do you say?" Ricky asked seriously, seemingly convincing her they were already dating with the prospects of marriage.


    On the other side of this delusion, Raven was sitting there laughing her head off.


    For the first time in her entire life, someone had been captivated by her looks at first sight rather than over time as her blue skin, an acquired taste for many, seemed to perfectly match Ricky''s palate.


    "Oh, so are we in a relationship now?" Raven asked, turning towards Ricky and noticing him closing the distance between them.


    "We can be whatever you want." Ricky said, instinctively laying on the charm.


    "As long as I get to let my heart feast on the feelings you produce while you''re by my side, darling, you can have anything." Ricky slinked his arms around her as Raven responded by gently patting his cheek.


    "Down boy." Raven joked as she turned back to the road, noticing him immediately stand down but still look at her with a smile.


    Ricky was simply quiet, staring at her with his smile as she eventually raised an eyebrow in response.


    "Yes?" Raven asked, seeing that he was almost expecting something.


    "I was just waiting for my treat." Ricky gestured to Raven, who like anyone else, had to ask.


    "What treat?" Raven asked with a toothy smile, unable to stop herself from laughing at this point.


    "My treat? I''ve been a good boy so where''s my good boy treat?" Ricky answered without any shame for his cheesy words, causing her to laugh once more.


    "You''re funny and cute I''ll give you that, if I was seventy years younger than I might have taken you right here." Raven commented to herself, noting that Ricky was honestly exactly her type, though she wished he were a little taller, unknowing he was still in his growth period.


    "I can make you feel seventy years younger-"


    "Alright calm down, I get why they call you Slick so you can stop." Raven held up a hand to stop Ricky, then guided it to his collar.


    Raven suddenly pulled Ricky toward her, pressing her lips firmly against his, her tongue slipping into his mouth with a confident, serpentine grace.


    The kiss was aggressive yet smooth, Raven''s way of claiming dominance, her tongue teasing and exploring before Ricky had a chance to respond.


    Just as he began to lean into the moment and gain the upperhand, Raven broke away, leaving him breathless and craving more.


    "And that''s your little good boy treat." Raven smirked, licking her lips as Ricky was left speechless at this woman in front of him.


    ''Oh my god.'' Ricky couldn''t believe the woman standing before him as he had never felt his breath stolen so completely, as if she had effortlessly captured his very sense of being.


    "I''ve decided, I love you." Ricky concluded outwardly with a serious expression, Raven continued to laugh as she covered her face.


    "Oh yeah? Well I hate to break it to you but my heart belongs to-"


    "Not for long." Ricky interrupted with an arrogant expression eclipsing his face as Raven rolled her eyes.


    "HER name is-"


    "It doesn''t matter if you swore yourself to god and became a nun who idolizes the virgin mary, I''ll steal your heart." Ricky waved his hand as he already read the description and knew she thought of herself as a lesbian, but that was before she met him.


    "Ha!" Raven let out a single, loud laugh.


    She''d encountered men who claimed otherwise before, but none had ever exuded the kind of confidence Ricky did.


    "Shouldn''t you stop me and catch up to your friends-"


    "Baby, time can stand still for all I care, as long as I get to talk to you." Ricky said with a playful smirk, raising his eyebrows suggestively in a humorous way.


    "What about the money-"


    "Who cares?" Ricky shrugged as Raven was a little baffled at his words.


    "Do you really think I''m that easy to let you-"


    "In no way shape or form will I ever think of you as ''easy''. I''m simply saying that nothing else matters when I am with you." RIcky leaned his head against his hand, winking at her while chuckling out..


    "Then you''re not going to stop me?"


    "If you don''t stop our conversation?"


    "And you''re okay with me driving this truck full of your supplier''s stolen money?"


    "Of course mama, I did say whatever you want."


    "...."


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Raven started laughing once again until a couple minutes later she finished.


    "Okay, what do you want to talk about-"


    "Oh baby, I only want to know all about you." Ricky continued to shamelessly put on the moves as Raven shook her head since she should''ve expected that response.


    "Raven, Raven Darkh?lme." Raven started out by introducing herself as Ricky delicately took her hand and placed a kiss on it.


    "Ricky Luciano, pleasure to meet my future wife and it''s an honor to be your future husband." Ricky smiled as Raven pulled her hand back, but she maintained her smile.


    Compliments about an insecurity she had carried her entire life were something she couldn''t help but appreciate, even if they were shameless and cheesy.


    "Like you, I''m a mutant and an old one at that." Raven remarked but Ricky was even more impressed.


    "And here you are, aging like the finest of wine." Ricky remarked as his eyes stared at her luscious curves.


    "Is that it?" Ricky asked but Raven went to talk but remained silent.


    "Nope it''s not, come on, tell me." Ricky gestured to Raven who side-eyed him but continued driving.


    *Sigh*


    "Do you remember our earlier talks about the future? The part where I brought up preventing certain situations." Raven said, recalling their conversation as she frowned, thinking back to when she took on Rosa.


    ''I knew I shouldn''t have opened my mouth-'' Raven saw Ricky''s silent deposition, misinterpreting his contemplation for disbelief.


    *Snap*


    "Yeah, it''s coming back to me, the stuff about changing things." Ricky snapped his fingers, remembering that part and looking at Raven who was staring off into the distance.


    "Nevermind, it''s stupid so-" Raven thought about her next words and simply thought it would be better to drop it here but Ricky shook his head.


    "Oh come on, why won''t you tell me?" Ricky asked, leaning towards the dashboard to appear in her area of view.


    "Because what good would it do if I told you things that you wouldn''t understand?" Raven asked since Ricky was way out of his element.


    "Well, I could literally destroy this truck, take all the money back, and leave you stranded in the middle of the desert." Ricky spoke with an innocent expression as Raven''s brow twitched slightly.


    She quickly concluded that if he used his forcefield, it might actually destroy the truck filled with money or at least, that''s what she assumed to be filled with money.


    ''Well, he is a mutant like me so it wouldn''t hurt telling him enough so that I can stall until I get to the continental.'' Raven said since once she gets to the continental, not even Ricky could stop her which was her main goal in the first place.


    "I''m trying to stop the destruction of our kind." Raven confessed to Ricky who raised an eyebrow at this remark.


    "Mutants will cease to exist in the future due to humans-"


    "Wait, aren''t we human?" Ricky interrupted, not understanding the lore at all as Raven shook her head.


    "We''re evolved humans, much like how humans and Neanderthals diverged into different species. But that''s where the problem lies." Raven looked ahead, her gaze steady as she began selectively speaking the truth.


    "In the near future, within a few years, there will be a surge in our kind, and with that surge, the world will finally have to take notice of us. Of course, humans will see us as a threat and will try to eradicate us using beings called Sentinels. They''ll then attempt to ''cure'' humanity, erasing the X-Gene entirely." Raven said, her filled with rage as she remembered everything she read in Irene''s Diaries.


    "We are literally their evolution yet they want to stop humanity from reaching a new existence, it''s absurd and-"


    "Alright I get it, you''re Pro-mutant so why does this have to do with stealing the money?" Ricky asked as he didn''t want to listen to her rant.


    Ricky honestly didn''t care about other people''s beliefs as he had been bombarded with countless ideologies over time, which had left him disinterested and somewhat indifferent.


    It might be a bit ignorant, but that''s just who Ricky was, at least for now.


    "I need funds to prevent certain events from unfolding, and making an honest living just isn''t enough to stop entire countries from going to war." Raven said, prompting Ricky to raise an eyebrow in curiosity.


    "Then why don''t you infiltrate the government-"


    "I''ve done that and I''ve disguised myself as different figures, but to be that person means that I can''t prevent an earth shattering phenomenon somewhere else in the world and trust me, any question you think of, I''ve already thought of it."


    "I''ve tried gathering our kind, I''ve tried forming organizations, and I''ve tried to stop events from happening. Yet over time, I realized that I can''t trust others except Irene." Raven already knew where Ricky was going and shut him down.


    "So you can only trust the person you''re cheating on with me, rather than your own husband?" Ricky asked with Raven immediately rolling her eyes.


    "What about me? Am I not enough-"


    "No, you will probably be dead by then." Raven said as Ricky scoffed at this.


    "I''m not dying until you have at least four of my kids." Ricky confessed as Raven laughed at this bold proclamation once more.


    "I''m sorry Ricky, but Irene''s predictions are rarely ever off the mark-"


    "Or she didn''t tell you everything." Ricky interrupted her, determined to make it clear that he wouldn''t be absent from Raven''s future.


    He was resolute in ensuring he''d be a part of her life from now on as the feeling he had experienced once before was something he wasn''t going to let go of easily, unlike in his past life, he was prepared to hold on to it, even if it meant risking everything, which, given the circumstances, might be a real possibility.


    "Then can you help me out with some future knowledge." Ricky asked and Raven held up three fingers.


    "Three questions," Raven said, her tone serious.


    "Since you''re a mutant, I''ll answer three of yours and no more. Even if you try to torture me to death, I won''t utter a sound." Raven proclaimed and Ricky rubbed his chin thoughtfully.


    Honestly, Ricky''s mind wasn''t in the best shape for contemplating the future, so he needed to focus on questions that could provide him with practical insights or immediate benefits.


    "When is the next time America enters into a huge war." Ricky asked, considering that part of Lucky''s plan involved him joining the military under the church''s guise.


    However, Ricky wasn''t fighting for any religious cause¡ªhe was too indifferent for that. Perhaps the army or something similar would be a more fitting route.


    Ricky knew of World War 2 from his past life but he isn''t obsessed with it and only knew the barebones but had forgotten when it even happened.


    "In seven years America will enter into a world war." Raven''s response took Ricky by surprise, revealing just how accurate Lucky''s prediction had been.


    ''Damn, am I going to have to fight in WW2.'' Ricky scratched his head, realizing that he actually could be drafted for that.


    "So pops was right about germany." Ricky thought out loud as Raven raised an eyebrow but didn''t say anything.


    "Alright next question, what is this ebony blade?" Ricky asked Raven, who was a little surprised by this question.


    "The Ebony Blade is a legendary weapon," Raven explained, her knowledge of this extensive since she has encountered a black knight before.


    "It''s said to have been crafted by Merlin for the Black Knight and can cut through anything." Raven finished it with a cut and dry explanation, Ricky nodding since he couldn''t help but feel as if those dreams would haunt him in the future.


    "My last question is how can I see you again after this." Ricky asked Raven who was still curious as to why he asked those specific questions.


    "This will be the last time we see each other." Raven smiled as she started driving past buildings but Ricky shook his head.


    "No, this-"


    "Listen, Ricky, you''re cute I''ll give you that." Raven smirked, then turned away and slammed her foot on the gas, propelling them forward with a sudden burst of speed.


    "But my future doesn''t involve you." Raven smiled warmly at Ricky as he turned his head before raising an eyebrow.


    "Seriously-"


    *BAM*


    The truck crashed into a sturdy wall, the impact sending a large cloud of dust and debris billowing into the air.


    The vehicle bounced violently, skidding on its side and coming to rest with Ricky trapped amid the swirling dust and scattered debris.


    "Thanks tiger." Raven kissed Ricky''s cheek before leaping out of the window as she landed gracefully on the cement, her descent as flawless as a gymnast''s routine.


    The people walking outside the wall turned pale with fear, rushing away from the scene as if it signaled the onset of a horrifying event.


    *Tap*


    *Tap*


    The brisk sound of heels tapping on the ground echoed through the area as the dust began to settle.


    A well-dressed man emerged from the hotel, his appearance contrasting sharply with the chaos surrounding him.


    "Rafael it''s good to see you-"


    "I''ll deal with you later." Rafael seethed at Raven as she remained silent, watching him approach the truck.


    He stopped in front of it just as Ricky kicked the windshield open, making his dramatic entrance even more intense.


    "Ugh, the things I do for love." Ricky sighed as he crawled out of the truck, only to find himself face-to-face with a finely dressed man.


    "Good morning Mr. Luciano, I am Rafel, the manager of the Mexico City Continental." Rafael did a light bow before looking at Ricky dusting himself off.


    "My little birds have informed me of your transgression and one of our members'' rather unfortunate actions, however I urge you not to take any hostile manners on Conteiteinal grounds without a membership." Rafael informed Ricky who scratched his head.


    "Do I know you or something?" Ricky asked though Rafael shook his head.


    "We have not met formally but I''ve heard of your family''s watered down version of the high table." Rafael pointed to Ricky then back to himself as he raised an eyebrow.


    "You sure know a lot of things that shouldn''t be known." Ricky raised his eyes in surprise, but it was Rafael who looked momentarily confused before a smile spread across his face.


    "It seems Lucky has not told you yet, so I think it is best for you to have this conversation with him." Rafael''s words left Ricky puzzled before he glanced behind him and winked at Raven.


    "I would like to entertain you but alas per the agreement, until your side is fulfilled then you are not allowed to take part in any functions that are associated with the high table." Rafael informed Ricky, scrunching his eyebrows after realizing that he couldn''t take Raven on a date..


    "Can''t I just-"


    "Mr. Luciano, you cannot be here and the only reason I''ve not gotten aggressive is because of the curiosity of your situation." Rafael subtly threatened Ricky who laughed.


    "Do you really think you can stop me?" Ricky asked but Rafael sighed while adjusting himself, backing up a few paces.


    "No I cannot, but my associates will do it for me."


    *Snap*


    Immediately, fourteen individuals emerged from the shadows, appearing in all of Ricky''s blind spots as he scanned his surroundings.


    "This is the last concession I shall part onto you before having to forcefully get you to leave." Rafael held up a bag filled with coins before placing it in Ricky''s hand.


    "Now, please leave." Rafael directed him out the gate instead of the wreckage as Ricky frowned though weighed his options but shrugged.


    "Fine." Ricky honestly had a lot of sh*t on his plate and even more answers that Lucky needed to tell him about.


    "But let me say one thing, if you believe in true love." Ricky looked at Rafael who frowned, but parted the way with Raven raising an eyebrow at him.


    "How do I see you again, I literally won''t leave until you tell me." Ricky spread out his arms, prompting the shadowy figures to brandish their weapons in response.


    *Sigh*


    "The only way we will ever meet again is if you change the course of history." Raven truthfully said to Ricky, the latter nodding before slowly backing away.


    "Alright, but when I do, you''ll have to let me take you out." Ricky laughed, Raven rolling her eyes but nodding since what were the odds they would run into each other again.


    "Fine, it''s a date." Raven said the words Ricky wanted to hear as he smiled widely.


    "Then until we meet again, Raven." Ricky waved to Raven, but she simply ignored him as he made his way out of the continental premises.


    "Rafael, wait, I can pay for all this, alright." Raven spoke to Rafael, whose eyebrow twitched as he gazed at the beautiful brick walls that had been completely destroyed.


    Raven didn''t wait long for a response as she ran toward the back of the truck, swatting away some of the dust, and her eyes widened in surprise.


    "Ha~" Raven let out a dry laugh as she saw that the contents of the truck were only filled with the dead body she had shot earlier as she facepalmed in frustration.


    Earlier, when Ricky was thrown into the back of the truck, he hadn''t just skipped over the money, he had tossed the bags into the space before heading off to talk to Raven.


    "He really got me." Raven let out a dry laugh, and Rafael walked up beside her with an amused expression.


    "So Rafael, what''s this about an agreement?" Raven tried to change the subject only to receive a scoff.


    "Fix my wall Raven, then we''ll talk."


    Author''s Note: I''m a little busy at the moment and only have time to post Chapters so if anyone has asked questions then they''ll probs go unanwered until the weekend, sorry.

 Chapter 60 - 59: She’s A Freak, Super Freaky (R18)

    Chapter 60: Chapter 59: She''s A Freak, Super Freaky (R18)


    Author''s Note: I got sick on friday and just didn''t feel like doing anything, here''s both the Chapters combined into one.


    After stealing a car, he sped back into the desert, where Chester spotted both Chores and Barko sitting idly by the roadside.


    "Need a ride?" Ricky brought the rusted, old stolen car to a slow halt in front of them, their eyes meeting in silent understanding.


    Minutes later, they were all in the car, laughter echoing inside as the tension eased, replaced by a rare moment of lightheartedness.


    Half a day later, Ricky finally pulled up to Juan''s compound, delivering the $1.75 million¡ªminus his cut.


    "Uh Slick, where is my car?" Juan finally asked, his brow furrowing as he noticed the battered, rusted car Ricky had hijacked instead of the expensive one he had been expecting.


    "Lost it due to collateral damage." Ricky shrugged, Chester and Barko looking away since they were technically responsible for his car getting destroyed.


    "But look on the bright side, at least you got your money." Ricky joked, patting Juan''s shoulder as he almost started to tear up.


    *Sniff*


    "Mr car~" Juan fell to his knees, tears streaming down his face as that car wasn''t just any Ford but it was a limited edition, one of only twenty ever made.


    "Also, if it''s cool with you, I''m gonna crash in one of your guest rooms for the night, I''m beat." Ricky walked out of the room, he glanced back to see Juan collapse to the ground, his body going limp as he passed out from the overwhelming sadness.


    Ricky made his way to the guest bedroom and opened the door, taking in the serene surroundings with a refreshing sigh.


    He lingered for a moment, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, before turning to close the door behind him.


    "Jesus!" Ricky yelled out, clutching his chest in shock as he spun around, only to find Rosa standing right behind him, alone and silent in the dimly lit hallway.


    "You scared me Rosa-" Ricky laughed out, scratching the back of his neck while looking around.


    "Yesterday, I think Camilia was right. I''m the sister of the leader of the Gulf Cartel, and I''m allowed to have things." Rosa declared, her words leaving Ricky baffled, unable to make sense of what she was saying.


    "O-Okay?" Ricky nodded in agreement, but he was completely lost, Rosa''s words only deepening his confusion as he tried to piece together her meaning, but nothing seemed to click.


    They stood there awkwardly for a while, Ricky waiting for Rosa to clarify her confusing statement, while Rosa, unsure of what to do, anticipated a response from him.


    This was her first interaction with a man outside of those employed by her brother since most others who tried to speak to her had met a grim fate.


    "So, uh, what exactly do you want from me-"


    "I want to feel alive!" Rosa abruptly cut Ricky off with a startled yell, her sudden movement catching him off guard.


    Rosa then slammed the door behind her with a sharp click, looking directly into his eyes as he started to understand.


    "Are you trying to get in my pants, Rosa?" Ricky asked, standing there with an amused smile as he covered his laugh.


    Rosa blushed deeply, pressing against the door to block Ricky''s exit since despite her bold action, she was the one feeling the most anxious, her nerves evident in her trembling hands and flushed cheeks.


    "Well, are you?" Ricky asked, his gaze fixed on the once-innocent-seeming princess of a dangerous cartel now trying to seduce him.


    ''This has to be a first.'' Ricky thought, reflecting on his experiences with women who made the first move, but never quite like this.


    "Y-Yes." Rosa sheepishly muttered out, Ricky raising an eyebrow while his eyes greedily coveted her body.


    "Alright, let me see you put on the moves, because I''m not that easy." Ricky teased, a mischievous glint in his eye.


    Ricky watched her with a smirk, curious to see how Rosa would react and eager to see her squirm.


    Rosa nervously racked her brain, trying to recall how the girls in her books reacted in similar situations.


    The effort only made her cover her face with her hands, her cheeks flushed with anxiety as she struggled to find a way to respond.


    With trembling hands, Rosa hesitated before trying to strip, her fingers fumbling with the buttons of her shirt.


    Her distress was palpable, and she looked on the verge of tears as Ricky scratched his neck, feeling increasingly uncomfortable.


    ''This-.........this feels like I''m forcing her,'' Ricky thought, recognizing that, without context, an outsider might interpret the scene as him pressuring her into sex.


    Rosa threw her top aside, standing stiffly in front of the door, her perky breasts visible through her white bra.


    She shuffled over to Ricky, who struggled to keep his laughter in check as she awkwardly settled onto his lap, wrapping her arms around his neck while avoiding eye contact.


    "Wow, I don''t think I''ve ever been this thoroughly seduced before." Ricky said, his voice laced with sarcasm.


    Rosa blushed even deeper, a shy smile spreading across her face despite her nervousness since she heard his words as genuine.


    Rosa then turned to Ricky, mustering up the courage as Ricky simply waited with a sleazy smile as she tightly closed her eyes and started leaning forward.


    However her trajectory was off, leaning more towards his forehead as he held back his chuckle and adjusted himself.


    ''I guess I''ll help her out.'' Ricky was about to meet Rosa''s lips halfway when, suddenly, her hands clenched his cheeks.


    Startled, Ricky had no chance to react before Rosa abruptly jerked his head forward and pressed her lips against his.


    Her kiss was clumsy and uncoordinated, and Ricky''s eyes widened in surprise as he noticed her entire innocent demeanor slowly wilting under the intensity of the moment.


    Before he could fully process her shift in energy, she pushed him onto the bed, catching him off guard.


    "Ha~" Rosa abruptly broke the kiss, her movements growing frantic.


    She rubbed herself against Ricky, grabbing his hands and pressing them firmly against her breasts.


    "Rosa-" Ricky tried to literally say anything but Rosa, too caught up in the moment of her own desire blossoming, suddenly cocked her hand back.


    *SLAP*


    "Mmmmmmm~" Rosa let out a moan as she slapped Ricky, his shock evident as he remained frozen in place, stunned by the sudden, unexpected action.


    ''What is happening-''


    *SLAP*


    Rosa backhanded Ricky in the opposite direction, squealing out a muffled murmur of a moan as he looked up at her.


    "This feels so right~" Rosa moaned out, ripping away her skirt to reveal her soaked white panties.


    "Alright." Ricky muttered to himself as he sat up, throwing Rosa back onto the bed before crawling atop of her.


    "Do you want you to ravage me Ricky, do you want you to tear me up~." Rosa squirmed under him, her innocent facade seemingly wilting under the heat of her breath.


    "....." Ricky didn''t respond immediately, his mind processing the situation before he realized what kind of girl she was.


    ''Ohhhhhhhhhhhhh.'' Ricky thought, realizing the depth of her eagerness as she awaited his hands to eagerly tear at her clothing.


    ''So she''s a freak, huh?'' Ricky mused, the old saying that ''quiet girls are the freakiest'' ringing true in this instance.


    With that realization, he started pulling off his own clothes, his focus shifting to the intensity of the moment.


    Ricky''s hands moved over her innocent, untouched body, which seemed at odds with her previously expressed desires.


    As he began to unfasten her bra and remove her underwear, Rosa started to shiver, her body trembling in response to his actions.


    Rosa''s fantasies, once just thoughts, began to manifest fully in her actions as her prolonged isolation and sexual frustration had twisted into sadistic and masochistic tendencies.


    Those same fantasies were at the heart of Rosa''s continued shy demeanor as her mind was continuously filled with vivid, unsettling images of the horrid things done to her innocent body that fed into her lustful mind, further isolating her and feeding into a vicious cycle.


    As these fantasies grew more intense, they transformed into the eager, provocative persona that lay before Ricky.


    "Ah~" Rosa moaned out, feeling an intense shiver course through her body at Ricky''s rugged hands tearing apart her being.


    "I-"


    "I want you to destroy me, Ricky, please~" Rosa interjected, her mind overwhelmed by her own fantasies.


    As Ricky''s actions momentarily took a backseat, she began touching herself, driven by the anticipation of his ravaging gaze.


    Ricky considered the situation, recognizing that this was likely the wildest experience he had encountered but he quickly shrugged off his thoughts, deciding to embrace the moment and go with it.


    He positioned himself at the entrance of her innocent and untouched pussy, feeling her soft lips press together as his tip slowly rubbed against the outer folds.


    Then with deliberate force, he slammed his cock into this beautiful and preserved sacred area with the full intention to ruin it thoroughly.


    "YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!" Rosa let out a cry as her back arched and her body lifted upwards.


    Her eyes rolled back, overwhelmed by the immense pain forcing her in a chokehold, but instead of showing any displeasure, she had a beautiful smile plastered on her face, with tears of joy glistening in her eyes.


    Ricky''s jaw tightened as he felt his cock enveloped by the exquisite tightness of her walls, each pulse and twitch sending waves of intense pleasure through him.


    Blood trickled from her trembling lips as her body convulsed, her pussy tearing from its seams and being forcefully stretched apart to accommodate Ricky''s size.


    "Hahahahahahaha~"


    However instead of cries, Rosa erupted in bursts of exhilarated laughter, clutching her hair as if losing herself in the sheer, ecstatic pleasure flooding through her.


    ''I don''t think I''ve ever met such a freaky masochist.'' Ricky placed his hand on her stomach, feeling a distinct bulge beneath his palm as the outline of his cock became visible.


    ''I might as well savor every moment, since I can literally do anything to her and she''ll probably love it.'' Ricky thought, acknowledging that with Rosa, he could fully indulge his desires.


    Unlike with Alina, where he had always held back slightly, with Rosa he could push boundaries, knowing she would appreciate every bit of it.


    "YOUR THICK COCK IS RIPPING PART MY-KERUK!" Rosa narrated the pain, her eyes twitching madly as she started to drool.


    "Alright, that got annoying fast." Ricky suddenly gripped Rosa''s neck with one hand, silencing her words as she gasped and choked.


    Despite the restriction, a fanatical expression crossed her face as her legs trembled and her pussy throbbed, her release erupting in response to his aggressive touch.


    Ricky seized her wrists, pinning her hands above her head, effectively restraining her entire body.


    As her legs flailed uncontrollably on either side of Ricky, her toes curled in response to the deep thrusts of his penetrating waist.


    This was due to Ricky pulling his blood-slathered cock almost entirely out of her masochistic pussy, only to thrust it back into her fragile and delicate form with renewed force.


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    The bedframe pounded against the back wall with every fierce thrust, Ricky''s relentless movements driving into Rosa with an unrestrained force.


    Ricky showed no mercy as he repeatedly plunged into her, each thrust amplifying the impact and shaking the frame with his unwavering intensity.


    Drool began to spill from the corners of her mouth as her entire body trembled under the relentless force of Ricky''s cock.


    With each thrust of Ricky''s waist slamming into her tiny frame, a new spray of bliss erupted from her, signaling her fierce and relentless response as her body constantly shuddered with raw, aggressive pleasure.


    Her face flushed a deep blue from the lack of air, yet the overwhelming, mind-numbing state left her in a state of blissful surrender, completely crippled to the pleasure.


    Shivers raced through her body as her mind was overwhelmed by the intense stimulation, her brain buzzing with pleas for her body to halt this gesture.


    But despite the warning, the only repose Rosa gave was a dumb smile spreading across her lips.


    *SLAP


    *SLAP*


    *SLAP*


    The brutalization of Rosa''s pussy was being seemingly narrated in real time at the sloppy and violent slapping sounds of Ricky''s hips drove into Rosa''s crotch.


    With every violent stroke, his cock further distorted her already ravaged insides, thoroughly ruining her pussy that drove her deeper into pain.


    Her lips bled as it cried out in its own way, but despite the agony, her mouth longed to scream in pleasure as she finally managed to say anything amidst Ricky''s chokehold.


    "AHHHHHHHHH~" Rosa choked out a screech of ecstasy, foaming at the mouth while cumming from Ricky''s ruining her being.


    Rosa''s body twitched uncontrollably as a wild applause of pleasure erupted within her body, even as her breaths grew shallow and the air seemed to slip away from her lungs.


    ''Oh sh*t.'' Ricky thought after noticing her flushed purple face, realizing he was becoming consumed and a little carried away.


    He released his grip on her neck but quickly placed his hand back over her mouth to stifle any further sounds.


    Muffled gasps escaped her as Rosa''s body convulsed with relief at the brief moments when she could catch her breath.


    Ricky continued to relentlessly slam his cock into her, each thrust driving himself deeper into her being as she tore apart at his will.


    With no restraint, Ricky''s cock reached the deepest depths of her being and, driven by his lack of empathy, his tip pressed firmly against her womb.


    Without any regard for her limits, Ricky pulled back slightly, losing himself in the intense sensation.


    *CLAP*


    *EXTREME MUFFLED MOANS*


    Ricky then immediately plunged himself deep inside Rosa with a single, fierce thrust, feeling the tight, enveloping warmth of her womb surrounding the tip of his veiny cock.


    With relentless force, he pushed further, embedding himself even further into her most sacred place.


    "That''s it~" Ricky hummed contentedly to himself, closing his eyes and smiling in a state of serene satisfaction, even as Rosa convulsed beneath him.


    Rosa responded with wild, frantic muffled moans, her screams echoing her intense, unrestrained pleasure.


    Rosa''s brain felt like it was turning to mush, yet her crazed eyes still sparkled with ecstasy as they convulsed with an ever greater desire to feel even more of this feeling.


    As Ricky pulled out slightly, the wet compression from Rosa''s pussy sprayed, staining the bedding beneath them with her nectar.


    The blood was gradually washed away by the sheer volume of her love juices, which sprayed continuously, cleansing her body and leaving her drenched in the intense flow of her pleasure.


    Both their thighs glistened with her love juices, which continuously leaked from her folds in a desperate attempt to cope with the relentless force of Ricky''s thrusts.


    Gritting his teeth, Ricky felt his cock throb from the slimy, tight, and enveloping sensation of ravaging Rosa''s once untouched insides.


    As he quickened his pace, Rosa''s body endured the brutal force, her previously compacted insides stretched painfully wide by Ricky''s relentless thrusts.


    The intense strain left her pussy somewhat numb, struggling to cope with the overwhelming pressure.


    Despite the savage, violent response of Ricky''s cock rendering her unable to feel pleasure, Rosa''s submission to the force continued unabated.


    All Rosa craved was the pain, the very pain she felt as Ricky''s thick, veiny cock relentlessly pried at her walls, stretching them to their limit and assaulting the deepest regions of her being. It was the only sensation she desired, the only thing she needed.


    "Urgh." Ricky grunted as he roughly slammed his cock into Rosa''s body. He leaned into her, his cock throbbing chaotically as he forcefully pushed past every barrier, reaching the very ends of her womb.


    Despite breaching all the way to her depths with ease, he wasn''t finished as he pressed against the walls of her womb, stretching the tight confines further as Rosa''s intimate space was pushed beyond its limits.


    White cum barreled from Ricky''s tip, the hot liquid splashing against the inner walls of Rosa''s depths.


    It swirled around his persistently throbbing cock, flooding her completely as the thick, white fluid showed no signs of stopping, continuing to fill Rosa and spreading through her womb, stretching her already strained confines even further.


    Scorching hot, Rosa felt herself filled to the absolute brim with Ricky''s molten cum.


    The intense heat was soon followed by a searing pain, her insides ablaze from his relentless actions.


    Her nerves cried out in anguish, begging for the torment to end, yet her eyes betrayed a wild, deranged smile.


    Her legs wrapped around Ricky''s waist, pulling him closer as she craved even more.


    Her head banged rhythmically against the bed beneath her as she reveled in the twisted pleasure derived from her own pain.


    Then, her body convulsed in a hysterical twitch, overwhelmed by a powerful climax brought on by Ricky''s ruthless actions.


    "Phew~" Ricky released Rosa, wiping the sweat from his forehead as he surveyed the damage beneath him.


    Rosa lay nearly unresponsive, her head tilted to the side with a vacant, dazed expression, reminiscent of someone pushed to their absolute limits as her body occasionally let out a twitch every now and again.


    Her chest heaved with each labored breath, her perky B-cup breasts jiggling with every intake as her lungs greedily gasped for air.


    Rosa''s hands remained trapped in the place where Ricky had forcefully pinned them, red marks encircling her tan skin, a stark reminder of his grip.


    "Rosa, Rosa?" Ricky unpinned her, tapping her cheek as she groggily spurred out a slushed compliance.


    Even when pushed to her limits, exhausted to no ends, Rosa''s free hands made their way to her nipples as she started twisting and pulling while relishing in the hot feeling still permuting through her stomach.


    ''Jesus.'' Ricky glanced back at the mission overview, surprised to see that he had completed all seven assignments.


    His eyes lingered on the remaining entries marked with question marks, reflecting on the tasks yet to be uncovered.


    "I should at least try to complete the ones that aren''t shown." Ricky thought, recognizing his lack of attention to the unseen missions and their potential significance.


    He had rarely focused on these hidden tasks and felt he needed to address them more seriously.


    Turning his attention to the missions of Irene, Ruth, Everlean, Mayola, and Azalea, Ricky began to focus on figuring out what needed to be done for each of them.


    ''Okay, I''ll play around with her for a little while and try some anal, since I don''t think I''ve ever had anal in Mexico before.'' Ricky thought to himself, lightly slapping Rosa''s sweaty cheeks.


    "Hey Rosa, you want to keep going, right?" Ricky asked, noting her dazed state as she responded with a slow, nod.


    "Yehrngs." Rosa spoke in a jumble of incoherent words, but it was all the confirmation Ricky needed to continue.


    ''Good enough for me.''


    Flipping her over, Ricky''s cock pressed against her constantly twitching lips as her small, perky ass jiggled as he grabbed handfuls, spreading them to their limits.


    As her pussy twitched, her tight little asshole followed suit while Ricky rubbed around the ring for a moment before spitting on it.


    Using his spit as lube Ricky started to lather it around her tight hole before pressing two fingers into it.


    "Ah~"


    The action brought some life back into Rosa as she felt her other hole being stretched while responding with a moan, her body reacting pleasantly to the sensation.


    "Raise your ass." Ricky said, but Rosa only gripped the sheets tightly, her face pressed against them as she became lost in the mix of pain and pleasure.


    *SLAP*


    "AH~" Rosa let out an intense moan as a large handprint appeared on her right cheek, the mark temporarily distorting as her cheek swayed before settling back into place.


    "Raise it." Ricky gave one last warning, and Rosa instinctively raised her perky little ass, though her movements were cautious as Ricky''s still embedded cock made her body stutter.


    With his free hand, Ricky pressed down on the upper part of her back, leaving only her lower half elevated.


    "AHHHHHHH!" Rosa let out a cry as her head arched upward while Ricky thrust two fingers deep inside her.


    *GASP*


    Rosa wanted to scream but only managed a dry heave as Ricky resumed his thrusts with his cock into her punished pussy.


    The hot cum inside her felt like magma, swirling in her womb and trying to force its way out, only for the brief gaps that showed itself to be the only exit to be sealed again and again.


    *SLAP*


    *SLAP*


    *SLAP*


    *SLAP*


    The loud, wet clapping grew more intense as Rosa''s glistening ass, slick with her own juices, rhythmically slapped against Ricky''s waist in an electric cadence.


    The sounds of Rosa''s perky ass meeting Ricky''s cock intensified as the two slabs of flesh collided forcefully.


    The rhythmic applause of their bodies echoed, amplified by Ricky''s aggressive thrusts as the appreciation came not only from Rosa''s moans but also from the satisfying slap of her cheeks against each other in compliance.


    Rosa''s nails dug into the sheets below as she clenched her teeth on the lining cloth, trying to steady herself.


    Her body was thrust forward and then slammed back down onto Ricky''s cock, swaying with the motion of the bed, all the while her ass was being dug out by two of Ricky''s fingers.


    The bedframe pounded against the wall, causing slight cracks to form as it dug into the surface with each forceful impact.


    "Ha~"


    "Ha~"


    "Ha~"


    Rosa let out a guttural moan, the sheets clenched between her teeth and quickly stained with drool as she was manhandled with a large smile spread across her face.


    The pungent smell of sex filled the room as the windows began to fog from the steam of their heated breaths.


    Twirling his fingers, Ricky''s index and middle fingers explored her ass as if looking for something while his cock continued its relentless rhythm.


    His cum spun rapidly within her tight space, swirling like a blender as his cock acted as a relentless mixer.


    "AHHHHHHHH!" Rosa let out a moan as Ricky''s fingers found their grip, a satisfied smile spreading across his face as he discovered her special spot.


    "God you''re such a slut, Rosa." Ricky chuckled as he guided the hand that had been pressing down on her upper back up to her hair, yanking her upright.


    Her back arched like the Golden Gate Bridge, creating a striking curve that connected her ecstatic expression to the ass being relentlessly pounded.


    "I''m your slut, I''m your slut-" Rosa moaned like a broken record, endlessly repeating a single, intense segment that seemed trapped in a loop.


    Ricky wrapped his free hand around Rosa''s silky black hair, gripping firmly to use it as leverage as he drove forward.


    Rosa clung to the sheets with her arms, but they were merely for show, her only remaining strength was in her fingers, which clutched desperately at the cotton while her arms wobbled about.


    Her eyes rolled back, as if trying to witness the relentless punishment being inflicted upon her insides.


    "-I''m your slut, I''m your slut-" Rosa seemed to break, unable to stop herself as these three words became the only anchor keeping her mind from shattering, unknowingly searing them into her subconscious.


    Ricky''s cock seemed the only thing able to overshadow Rosa''s words, her drenched pussy spewing sounds mixed with liquid residue.


    As her insides clenched tightly and churned constantly, they resisted stubbornly, only to further pleasure the relentless force stretching them apart.


    Her walls twitched, ultimately yielding to their limits, parting like the Red Sea to accommodate Ricky''s size.


    As they fully gave way, Ricky''s cock faced no resistance in taking deeper strides, stretching towards the depths of Rosa''s womb.


    His veiny member continued to press against the boundary, relentlessly pushing against her walls.


    The lining stretched so far that Ricky''s tip created a noticeable bulge on Rosa''s stomach, her insides beginning to deform from his forceful movements.


    "HA-AHHHH!" Rosa''s eyes widened, her gaze fixed on the protruding tip as it pushed against her stomach with each thrust.


    One of her hands released its grip, trailing down her sweaty body as she positioned it above the constantly shifting bulge, feeling it pulse against her skin with every deep, relentless thrust Ricky delivered.


    Twisting her fingers around the protruding bulge, Rosa felt a fresh surge of pleasure coursing through her.


    It was as if Ricky''s cock was merging with her very essence.


    Intensifying his pace, the bulge grew larger as Ricky prepared to release another load deep inside her womb.


    Three more thrusts, and Ricky drove himself deep into Rosa, pushing his everything into it as it wholly overwhelmed her as he pulled her hair back, bending her petite body to his will.


    The tip of his cock pinned itself against the deepest part of her womb, and as he came, his cum spurted around the head of his member, flooding her tight, receptive womb.


    Despite reaching her limit, Ricky continued to pump his seed into her, his balls throbbing vigorously as he delivered two more powerful spurts that forced her womb to concede.


    Rosa clenched her teeth, bracing herself against the intensity as her womb slowly morphed to accommodate the influx of his cum.


    Her insides expanded even further, her nerve endings trying once more to signal her discomfort, but Rosa just laughed in response.


    "AHAHAHAHAHA!" Rosa laughed maniacally as her body erupted with a torrent of fluids, her pussy spraying out like a fire hydrant.


    Her mind seemed to unravel, completely overtaken by the overwhelming pleasure of Ricky''s relentless thrusts, leaving no room for anything but the intense sensation of his cock.


    "F*ck~" Ricky let out a content moan as he released Rosa''s hair, letting her slump onto the bed, face down.


    He watched her twitching lower half, then reached down to spread her cheeks apart, his gaze fixed on his own cock as he positioned himself once more before popping his two fingers out.


    However, when Ricky reached his usual spot, he didn''t drive back in but began to slowly pull out.


    Rosa''s pussy lips stretched to their limits, reluctantly releasing Ricky''s slick, covered cock.


    *POP*


    A distinct popping sound echoed as the tip finally slipped free, standing erect as drops of Rosa''s love juices splattered off, a result of the sudden release.


    Her pussy, instead of contracting back to its original shape, remained stretched to the exact circumference of Ricky''s cock as his cum splashed out.


    Once freed, Rosa''s womb wasn''t the only part tainted by the thick, white liquid; it flowed through her insides, marking her walls completely as the light pink color was overtaken by the creamy substance.


    Finally, Ricky''s cum splashed onto the sheets below her, forming a growing pool of white liquid that expanded across the once-dark, damp spot.


    The sheets began to return to their original whiteness as Rosa''s body convulsed as she experienced the emptiness left behind, feeling completely drained after Ricky''s departure.


    Rosa''s face was pressed into the damp sheets as the warmth and intensity of the earlier sensations slowly faded.


    The only reminder of their passionate encounter was the lingering pleasure from the aftermath.


    Meanwhile, Ricky, undeterred, turned his attention to his next target as he positioned both of his thumbs at her asshole and began to pull.


    Ricky wasted no time, pressing the tip of his cock into the forcibly opened hole and as he withdrew his thumbs, the tightness immediately clamped down around him as Rosa''s body flinched.


    He massaged his hands up Rosa''s back, eventually resting them on her shoulders as he prepared himself for the even tighter sensation to come.


    *BANG*


    The bedframe slammed against the wall as Ricky thrust his thick, elongated cock fully into her ass.


    A tight grip enveloped him, and he savored the intense sensation with a pleased smile.


    Meanwhile, Rosa''s mind was jolted by the sudden intrusion into a forbidden zone, overwhelming her with a mix of shock and pleasure.


    A muffled screech escaped Rosa''s throat as the pain surpassed her usual kinky threshold, her nerve endings pleading for him to stop.


    Yet, it was too late as Ricky was too caught up in reveling in the sensation of being completely enveloped by her ass, Rosa remained pinned face down, unable to escape the relentless intensity.


    Rosa would have to either endure the overwhelming sensations and find pleasure in them or lose consciousness, as her willingness to explore her kinks had led her into a perilous situation.


    "Oho Rosa, I''m going to destroy your ass." Ricky said, unaware of the dilemma Rosa was enduring, as he pulled his cock out halfway.


    The friction against the walls of her unlubricated ass heightened his sensitivity, causing him to close his eyes in response.


    With a forceful thrust, Ricky drove his cock back into her, causing Rosa''s legs to momentarily lift before collapsing back down, her knees buckling under the intensity.


    Her tendons reacted to the intense clenching of her ass, causing her knees to draw her legs back with each thrust.


    They flopped up and down, colliding with the back of Ricky''s thighs, but he was too absorbed in reaching deeper into her to notice.


    Shifting his position, Ricky lay on top of her, his chest pressing down to hold her in place while he gripped the bed frame above them.


    Gripping the bed frame tightly, Ricky pulled his body forward, allowing his cock to penetrate even deeper into Rosa''s unlubed ass.


    Muffled cries filled the room as tears soaked the sheets, while Rosa struggled to accommodate his entire length.


    Her hands flailed for purchase, but Ricky grew frustrated and grabbed them, interlocking his fingers with hers and pinning them to the bed frame.


    With her completely trapped, Ricky''s movements became more forceful and relentless, driven by the intense tightness and his need to release his stress.


    As he felt his balls twitching, he thrust with increasing vigor, pushing his cock deeper and harder until the sensation began to swell within him.


    Gradually, Rosa was being overwhelmed by Ricky''s cock, reaching a point of no return that bound her entirely to him.


    As the relentless pressure built up, the tears in her eyes slowly ceased, leaving her completely absorbed in the sensation.


    Her body was indelibly marked by Ricky, as his actions had left a lasting imprint on both her mind and her physical being.


    "Urgh!" Ricky grunted as he pushed all the way into Rosa, who convulsed in a frenzy of pleasure, finally discovering the ecstasy hidden beneath the overwhelming pain.


    A hot, copious stream of cum filled Rosa''s ass, providing the lubrication it desperately needed.


    Ricky pressed down onto Rosa and gave one final, small thrust, ensuring he emptied every last drop into her.


    After placing a kiss on the back of her neck, he released her hands from his grip that had previously shackled her and shifted his attention towards her face.


    Ricky wrapped one hand around her neck, lifting it slightly, while his other hand explored her mouth.


    Her expression was blank, her eyes devoid of any struggle, having surrendered completely to him as her mind was seemingly turned off as the masochistic pleasure had fully consumed her.


    Ricky swirled his fingers inside her mouth, playfully probing her tongue as he placed gentle kisses on the back of her neck as he waited for the intense pleasure of filling her to subside before moving on.


    Once the ecstasy of climaxing within Rosa faded, Ricky stood over her, leaving her to collapse onto the bed, face down and unsupported.


    Looking at the list of hidden missions, with all but one remaining, he decided to see if receiving a blowjob might help complete the final task.


    Pulling Rosa''s limp body closer, he positioned his cock over her face, even though she remained unresponsive.


    "Rosa, Rosa." Ricky slapped his cock against her face, jolting her back to reality.


    Rosa, exhausted, looked up at the thing that had utterly torn and destroyed her body as her mouth opened instinctively.


    "There you go." Ricky gently caressed her cheek as he guided his cock into her mouth.


    His cum lathered cock, seasoned with her own juices, slipped into her mouth as her tongue swirled around it.


    "Mmmmm~" Rosa hummed, her eyes closing and pushing herself further into his cock as if losing herself to the taste.


    *COUGH*


    Rosa, eager yet overwhelmed, choked slightly as she tried to take him fully but efore she could pull away, Ricky placed a firm hand on the back of her head, keeping her in place.


    "Relax your throat." Ricky gently caressed her hair as Rosa struggled to adjust, her gagging eventually subsiding.


    The salty taste of semen lingered on her taste buds, mingling with her senses and slowly drawing her back into the moment.


    The taste, surprisingly intoxicating, began to stir something within her as she once again loosened herself to the feeling.


    Rosa bobbed her head up and down, savoring the feeling of his shaft sliding in and out of her throat.


    His cock, now slick with her saliva, glided smoothly as he began to lose himself in the sensation and slowly released his hold of her head.


    Rosa worked diligently to clean him, her tongue eagerly swirling around his length, which was stained and coated with the remnants of their earlier passion.


    Rosa swirled her tongue around him, her mouth working like a car wash as she eagerly savored every inch.


    She sipped and tasted, savoring the flavor as she adjusted her movements to take in more and as Ricky leaned back, Rosa''s instincts took over; her body moved with a newfound rhythm.


    Once she had thoroughly cleaned his cock, she placed her hands at its base, gently twisting as her tongue and lips continued to explore the tip.


    ''Damn, I need to teach this trick to Alina.'' Ricky leaned back onto the bed, letting Rosa take the lead as she eagerly worked to satisfy him.


    Her hair fell over her face, partially obscuring her determined expression as she continued to suck him.


    *SLURP*


    The rhythmic sounds of her slurping filled the air as she chased the addictive taste of his cum, feeling his cock twitch slightly in response.


    Pressing her hands against Ricky''s thighs for better leverage, Rosa pushed his cock deeper into her throat, eager to taste his cum.


    Rosa''s determination was evident as she gently massaged his balls, hoping to hasten his release as her efforts paid off when a warm, foreign liquid flooded her mouth.


    His tip released a generous burst of cum onto her tongue, which swirled and savored the hot, creamy sensation.


    *GULP*


    A loud gulp echoed as the volume of cum in her mouth became overwhelming as Rosa swallowed a mouthful before continuing to swirl her tongue through the warm, creamy liquid.


    Her eyelashes fluttered as she savored the rich taste, even after Ricky had finished.


    But Rosa didn''t immediately swallow; instead, she relished the thick, pasty flavor, determined to imprint it on her memory.


    *GULP*


    Rosa finally swallowed the mouthful of cum, feeling it slide down her throat and settle in her stomach.


    Driven by a craving for more, she eagerly resumed her efforts, slurping his cock in hopes of getting just a little bit more of that intense sensation and taste.


    Her desires were met as a small amount of cum was extracted from his urethra, and she licked it up with her tongue, savoring the taste that made her eyes flutter.


    Ricky, meanwhile, wore a satisfied smile, his exhaustion causing him to close his eyes as his cock rested between the lips of a beautiful girl.


    Next Morning.


    The sound of slurping made Ricky''s eyes flicker open, only for him to feel a lingering, draining sensation.


    "Urgh." Ricky let out an instinctive grunt as his balls twitched and released a fresh load of cum.


    Rosa, positioned directly above him, eagerly gulped it down, causing Ricky''s eyes to widen in realization.


    He suddenly understood why he had been dreaming about pumping his cum into Raven as Rosa might have been sucking him dry the entire time he was asleep.


    "Rosa, get off." Ricky pushed her head to the side, a popping sound echoing as his cock was finally freed from the woman''s eager grip.


    "What the f*ck?" Ricky said as Rosa, exhausted, collapsed onto the bed, her belly protruding slightly as she rubbed it.


    "You''re so delicious~" Rosa mumbled, her subtle confirmation revealing that she had been swallowing his cum, causing her stomach to distend.


    Realizing the potential consequences of staying any longer, Ricky hurriedly got off the bed but stumbled as he felt his legs go numb as he looked back with a horrified expression.


    ''God, I can''t even remember the last time I was drained like this, she basically f*cking milked me.'' Ricky shivered as he quickly dressed, limping out of the room and heading to the nearest bathroom.


    There, he turned on the shower and stepped inside, his mind preoccupied with the mission rewards he was about to review.


    [Mission Received: Rosa ]


    Difficulty: Easy-Medium


    Character Sheet: D


    Description: Rosa is a very coddled girl though instead of arrogant, this very fact has somewhat stunted her growth. This overprotective attitude taken on with everyone around her has made her very closed off and unable to form real relationships with others. However as this was happening, her inner desires had been twisting vigorously into a mailnation of something that no one could''ve have expected.


    Objective: Unleash Rosa''s desire and fill her to the brim with your baby batter.


    Reward:


    Main Mission: 35,000 IP


    Impregnante Once:


    Choose: 75 Gacha Or Rosa''s skills


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Have Rosa show her true self(Complete):


    Reward: Epic Skill Coupon


    Use Rosa''s kink to have her cums three times(Complete):


    Reward: +4 Strength


    Impregnate Rosa within the confines of Juan''s home(Complete):


    Reward: +4 Stamina


    Bonus Missions:


    Make Rosa cum without even touching her(Complete):


    Reward: Rare Item Coupon


    Cum inside her three or more times(Complete):


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Hidden Mission: Cum inside her ass with one of those times(Complete):


    Reward: Epic Familiar Coupon


    Break Rosa with her own desires(Complete):


    Reward: +4 Strength


    Take all three of Rosa''s virginity in the same sitting(Complete):


    Reward: Epic Skill Coupon


    ''Choose gacha and accept rewards-URGH!''


    *CRACK*


    *CRACK*


    *CRACK*


    "GOD DAMMIT, I HATE THIS PART!" Ricky pessimistically said as his bones started cracking while his muscles started to rip apart and be put back together.


    15 minutes later,


    *BAM*


    "We gotta get out of here!" Ricky burst through the door with a forceful kick, sending it flying off its hinges.


    He found Chores, Chester, and Barko calmly engrossed in a game of Go Fish as the three of them glanced up at Ricky, then at the door, and let out a collective sigh.


    "Wait, where''s Alexander?" Ricky instinctively asked, his gaze sweeping over the three of them.


    They looked up at him, then pointed to the side, where Alexander was hovering next to a trash can.


    "I''m never drinking again, on Zeus''s name I''m never-BLERGH!" Alexander let out a distressed whine before doubling over and hurling into the trash can.


    He continued to gasp for breath, each exhale punctuated by frustrated huffs only to let out another burst of vomit.


    "Stop, please someone make this torture end-BLERGH!" Alexander cried out, throwing up once again.


    Ricky, having had one of those days himself, nodded in understanding as he walked over and gently patted Alexander''s back as the rodent continued to expel the contents of his stomach, eventually emptying himself completely.


    "I want to die~" Alexander dramatically whispered to himself, Ricky picking him up and putting him into his shirt pocket.


    "Anyways, we should leave because I just f*cked Juan''s sister." Ricky announced his intention, causing the three to freeze and look at him with expressions of sheer horror.


    "Why, why would you do that!?!" Barko yelled out in a horrified manner, his fear evident.


    Meanwhile, Ricky scrambled to come up with a valid excuse, his mind racing as he struggled to find a way to diffuse the tense situation.


    "Cause she''s hot?" Ricky asked, phrasing his statement as a question, while Chores buried his face in his hands.


    "We-........we need to get out of here." Chores abruptly stood up, quickly gathering his belongings, while Chester hopped onto Ricky''s shoulder, seemingly ready to go wherever Ricky was headed.


    "Was it consensual?" Chester asked as Ricky scoffed at this accusation.


    "Of course it was, do you think a face like this can''t get some?" Ricky asked Chester, squinting but eventually shook his head in disgust at how much of a slut his handler was.


    "I am not a slut, I''m a legend." Ricky raised his chin confidently, catching Chester off guard.


    The surprise was evident on Chester''s face, as Ricky''s ability to perceive his thoughts seemed impossible, though it wasn''t exactly the case.


    Chester Favorability: 65


    65: Able to understand the meaning of your familiar thoughts.


    "I want to die~" Alexander moaned from Ricky''s chest pocket, tossing and turning as his paws held onto his stomach.


    "I swear, your dick is going to get us killed one day." Chores huffed, walking out of the room, making their way out of the hall only to freeze.


    "Oh, are you fella''s leaving?" Juan, in a robe, poured himself a margarita as he gazed at them before looking at Ricky.


    "I also heard that Slick had a guest, and boy, did you awaken the entire compound," Juan laughed, noticing everyone except Ricky visibly pale as he struggled to maintain his composure, trying to stay cool.


    "You really gave it to her good, huh?" Juan joked, causing Ricky to stifle a laugh as he tried to keep a straight face.


    *Cough*


    "Yep, she was screaming for joy." Ricky joked back in response, but Chores nudged him.


    "Seriously!" Chores whispered loudly, his tone sharp with urgency, while Juan nodded in agreement.


    "Well, good luck on your journey back to America." Juan said, offering a reassuring smile.


    "Remember, you''re always welcome at the Guerra residence. My sister and I will gladly let you in whenever you need, feel free to come whenever you see fit." Juan laughed out, Ricky receiving death glares for Barko and Chores as they watched him stipend in pent up laughter.


    Ricky covered his mouth, struggling to contain his laughter as he had to heave out big breaths before looking back at Juan.


    "Yeah Juan, it was a pleasure coming-"


    "Alright, it''s been a blast, farewell!" Chores pushed Ricky out the door with urgency and quickly began searching for the rusted piece of junk they had driven in.


    "Come again!" Juan yelled, the door closing behind them with Juan waving figure disappearing


    *PFFT*


    Ricky laughed again as Chores shoved him into the driver''s seat and started driving off into the distance.


    Despite his amusement, Ricky''s gaze was fixed on the unopened coupons in his hand.


    Lost in thought, he stared out into the horizon, his mind wandering as the landscape blurred by.


    ''Open all.''


    *Ding*


    Received:


    (Epic Skill) Pyrokinetic Constructs: The power to shape and control solid constructs made of fire. These fiery structures can be wielded as weapons, or to create distractions in battle.


    (Epic Skill) Psychic Artillery: The ability to generate and control psychic projectiles. While not as powerful as traditional energy blasts, this power allows for versatile ranged attacks.


    (Rare Item) Everbloom Seed: A small, enchanted seed that, when planted, instantly grows into a majestic and perpetually blooming tree. The tree''s blossoms have unique properties, such as healing properties, the ability to induce sleep, or the power to enhance magical abilities.


    (Epic Familiar) Mockingbird: A bird that can replicate the powers of anyone they mock by ? of a total power output.


    *Ding*


    [The user''s X Gene is reacting to ''Psychic Artillery'' and ''Pyrokinetic Constructs'' does the user wish to integrate the skill into-]


    ''Yeah.'' Ricky said as his brain was inflamed to a certain degree before he blinked a couple times before the headache faded.


    ''Status-'' Ricky thought the storm had passed and tried to check his status, only for his body to suddenly go limp.


    "SLICK!" Barko''s jaws clamped down on the steering wheel as Ricky''s eyes rolled back, his body starting to convulse.


    *GASP*


    Ricky gasped for air as the two X-Gene mutations caused severe alterations to his genetic formula, pushing his X-Gene to evolve as his body trembled with the intensity of the transformation.


    "Woah." Ricky exhaled deeply, extending his hand as a fireball materialized in his palm through the power of his mind.


    Chores, positioned behind him, widened his eyes in astonishment, while Barko''s jaw dropped in exasperation, a hypothesis forming in his mind.


    "Slick, did your X-Gene mutate further?" Barko spoke up, his voice tinged with disbelief as the sudden combustion raised new questions.


    Ricky, already adept in mental prowess, quickly connected the dots, realizing the implications of the newfound power.


    "I guess so." Ricky thought with amazement, realizing he''d save a fortune on lighters as he momentarily forgot about the lighter he already had in his inventory, which never ran out.


    Ricky rolled down the window and took out the new familiar, a light flashing in his hand as a serene mockingbird materialized, perching delicately on his palm.


    The bird then fluttered to the steering wheel, capturing everyone''s attention in the car.


    "A bird?" Alexander was the first to speak, grumbling in confusion as the mockingbird suddenly sneered, its demeanor shifting unexpectedly.


    "A bird?" The mockingbird spoke in a sarcastic tone, Alexander furrowed his brows in confusion.


    "You dare mock me, Alexander the great?" Alexander asked out, pointing at the mockingbird while squinting his eyes.


    "You dare mock me, Alexander the great?" The mockingbird taunted Alexander with a mocking tone, Alexander scurrying up to Ricky''s shoulder and wiping his mouth


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky roared with laughter as Barko and Chores tilted their heads in confusion, trying to make sense of the unexpected scene unfolding before them.


    "Stop laughing young Ricky, this mockery shall not stand if he continues!"


    "Stop laughing young Ricky, this mockery shall not stand if he continues!"


    "STOP IT!" Alexander adorned himself in his old battle gear as he pointed his tiny spear at the mockingbird.


    "STOP IT!" The mockingbird adorned itself in an exact replica of Alexander''s armor, causing Alexander to freeze in astonishment.


    Even Chester''s eyes widened in surprise at the bizarre transformation since it was an exact replica.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky laughed out, patting the mockingbird''s head.


    "I''m definitely keeping you." Ricky gently petted the mockingbird, which nuzzled against his palm with contentment, while Alexander stomped his foot in frustration on Ricky''s shoulder.


    "YOU SHALL NOT-"


    "I''m gonna name you Henry-"


    "DO NOT NAME THIS FOUL CREATURE!"


    "DO NOT NAME THIS FOUL CREATURE!"


    "STOP IT!"


    "STOP IT!"


    &&&


    (Epic Familiar) Henry The Mockingbird (Favorability: 67)


    -Skill


    Mock: Can replicate the powers of anyone they mock by ? of a total power output


    (Ricky''s Status)


    [Status]


    Name: Ricky Luciano


    Titles: Deadbeat, Royal Thug, Prodigal Son


    Age: 15


    Born: October, 27, 1918


    Race: Human


    Strength: 32 (Lower realm of Superhuman strength)


    Stamina: 25 (Slightly above peak adult male)


    Vitality: 20 (Peak adult male)


    Agility: 26 (Above peak adult male)


    Dexterity: 25 (Above peak adult male)


    Intelligence: 7 (You''ve growing but that doesn''t mean your not an Idiot)


    Charm: 29 (Your charm is at the peak of humanity and at the cusp of superhuman)


    Appearance: 30 (A superhuman appearance that transcends humans.)


    IP: 100,000


    Gacha: 125


    [Familiars]


    Familiar:


    Chester (Favorability: 65):


    Description: The crow of Itachi who died before it could gain Shishui''s mangekyou sharingan.


    ¨CSkills:


    ¨CChunin Chakra Reserves:


    ¨CEagle Eye: Chester is able to share his sights with you though only if he wishes.


    ¨CElite Jonan Genjutsu: The Crow is adept in the art of trickery, illusion, and hypnotic suggestion.


    Alexander The Gerbil (Favorability: 42):


    Description: Alexander the great has possessed your Gerbil.


    Rare Growth Familiar: Stone Golem Core (Sentience: 0%)


    Description: A golem who grows by interacting with different stones, its growth is only progressed by the very stone it wraps around itself.


    ¨CSkills:


    (Mastery)Battle Tactics


    (Mastery)Hand-to-hand Combat


    (Mastery)Speeches


    IP Skills:


    Apex Fertility: The user''s seed will be amongst the peak in the universe and incredibly fertile as your seed can even rejuvenate the womb of a woman who cannot even give birth. All it takes is one load to impregnate any woman in an instant.


    Wet To The Touch: A skill that allows for the user to instantly make any girl wet and lubricate their insides for peak insertion.


    -Condition: Only can be used once a day.


    Promiscuous scent(Passive): Anyone who owns this skill will passively give off a scent that will make any woman who smells it feel promiscuous.


    Addicting Semen(Passive): Your Semen will become like nicotine in a sense that after having it for a while they will have withdrawals without it.


    IP Items:


    Skills:


    ¨CX Gene''s:


    (X-Gene) Pyro-Psionic Fusion:


    Fusion Manifestation and Shape Manipulation: Ricky can materialize a harmonious blend of psychic energy and fire into solid, intricate objects or powerful weapons. His control extends to manipulating their shape, size, and complexity, showcasing a seamless integration of creativity and control. These constructs range from simple tools to complex machinery, exhibiting the duality of psychic and pyrokinetic mastery.


    Durability and Offensive Capabilities: The constructs Ricky creates possess exceptional durability, capable of withstanding significant force and damage. Infused with the fusion of psychic and fiery energy, these creations become potent offensive tools. Ricky can generate and control projectiles that combine the dynamic nature of psychic force with the destructive power of controlled fire, providing him with versatile and powerful ranged attacks.


    Defensive Capabilities and Dual Mobility: Ricky can project invisible force fields derived from his own mind, forming protective barriers, shields, or entire domes. These force fields exhibit high durability, capable of blocking telekinesis, preventing mental intrusion, and shielding against various physical and energy-based attacks. Additionally, Ricky can ride on streams of controlled fire or navigate on his psychic force fields, granting him both aerial mobility and maneuverability in battle.


    Psionic Infusion and Mental Control: Ricky seamlessly infuses his constructs and force fields with emotions or thoughts, enhancing their potency against specific adversaries or situations. His mental control allows for dynamic adaptation of his creations, making him a versatile and strategic combatant who can leverage the combined psychic and pyrokinetic powers to gain the upper hand in any confrontation.


    Full Counter: The ability to counter any non physical attack at its original user with twice the power


    Conditions:


    The user must have a conduit or weapon to reflect an attackThe user must be able to react to or swing towards an attack with the proper timing in order to reflect the attackThere must be an attack to reflect.


    ¨COther Skills:


    (Epic Skill) Lie Detection: Anyone who tells a lie in front of you will cause a sixth sense to go off in your mind signaling the falsehood of their words.


    (Epic Skill) Digital Cloaking: The power to choose when visible and invisible to surveillance cameras, sensors, and other forms of electronic detection, allowing for stealthy movements in highly monitored areas.


    (Epic Skill) Intuitive Genius: This skill functions as perception, as it lets the user possess the ability to visually perceive "mechanical energy" (the kinetic energy and potential energy present in the components of mechanical systems) in action.


    -Effect: This power allows the user to instinctively know and understand the potential and functional operations of any machine or technological device in his visual range, a skill that, combined with natural intelligence, would allow the user to conceive, design, and build mechanical devices; and operate, modify, and disassemble existing technology or create countermeasures for it.


    (Epic Skill) Defensive Precognition: A heightened sense of awareness that allows the user to foresee and react to incoming threats, enhancing their ability to dodge attacks and counter adversaries.


    (Epic Skill) Accelerated Healing: Healing at a faster rate than normal humans, but not necessarily instantaneous.


    (Rare Skill) Sixth Sense: Ability to sense objects and movement without using normal vision, similar to echolocation.


    (Rare Skill) Green Thumb: Turn waste that won''t decompose for more than 50 years into trees.


    ¨CEffects: Works on toxic waste, plastic, rubber, and others


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Marksmanship: Above the cut of the average joe, you are able to handle anything that requires marksmanship with a solid proficiency


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Lockpicking: Able to break any standard lock and even some less advanced safes.


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Culinary Arts: Expertise in cooking and food preparation, including knowledge of various cuisines, cooking techniques, flavor combinations, and presentation skills.


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Cartography: Skill in reading and creating accurate maps, including terrain and geographical features.


    (Common Skill) Beginner Archery:


    Titles:


    Deadbeat: You have increased odds to flee from the responsibilities of a child and run out like a scumbag.


    Royal Thug: You aren''t just born into the thug life but are born into the nobility of the thug life


    ¨CEffect: A ingrained respect is giving to you by all gangster, mobsters, and thugs


    Prodigal Son: Your fame has gained you considerable attention and expectations.


    ¨CEffect: Mobsters will subconsciously demand that you match their level of expectations. Failing to meet their expectations, however, will subject you to their severe judgment and negativity.


    ¨CEffect: A ingrained respect is giving to you by all gangster, mobsters, and thugs


    Items:


    (Legendary Item) Storage Space Key: A key that can be turned on any door and will lead to a 36 x 36 yard room that can have anything in the mortal plane stored in it which is big enough to be considered a small house.


    (Legendary Item) Blue Eyes White Dragon: An original Blue eyes white dragon, vintage, and sealed delicately within plastic.


    ¨CEffect: Makes all those in the vicinity tremble in fear at its mere existence alone.


    (Epic Item) Lorestone Pendant: A pendant containing the knowledge of the ancient civilization Cortaj. When worn, it grants the wearer wisdom, language proficiency, and historical insight at random.


    (Epic Growth Item) Soulbound Grimoire: A spellbook that absorbs the knowledge and abilities of the caster. As the caster learns new spells, the grimoire becomes more powerful, granting access to a wider range of magic.


    (Epic Item) Translation Ring: A ring that allows the wearer to understand and speak any language, facilitating communication with diverse cultures and species.


    (Epic Weapon) Solarflare Bow: A bow crafted from the wood of a rare, sun-blessed tree. Its arrows burst into solar flames upon release, capable of piercing through multiple enemies and setting ablaze anything they touch.


    (Epic Weapon) Vial of Aurora Borealis: When the vail is broken, it bursts into a vivid display of colors, creating an illusionary landscape of northern lights. Within this illusion, time slows down temporarily for everyone except the user, allowing the wielder to strategize and attack swiftly while enemies are mesmerized.


    (Epic Item) Quiver of Chance: The quiver always has an arrow ready for the archer, magically replenishing itself however its effects can be a mystery. These arrows have the possibility of various effects, such as exploding on impact, seeking out targets, or passing through obstacles though they could result in a regular arrow.


    (Rare Item) Everbloom Seed: A small, enchanted seed that, when planted, instantly grows into a majestic and perpetually blooming tree. The tree''s blossoms have unique properties, such as healing properties, the ability to induce sleep, or the power to enhance magical abilities.


    (Rare Weapon) Tungsten Machete: Made out of the hard tungsten alloy, this machete has been sharpened to be able to slice through things with relative ease.


    (Rare Item) Medieval Cannon: Shoots cannonballs


    (Rare Item) Cross Necklace: A aura of pure holiness repluses from this cross which makes an unholy being in the area unable to look you in the eye.


    (Rare Item) Courageous Thimble: Whoever adorned this thimble on their pinky will be able to gaze upon an army of 100,000 masters and simply laugh at the challenge.


    Rare Item: Fine China plates


    (Rare Item) Blue Print Scanner: A projector that once it scans an object, will be able to accurately make a blueprint of it.


    (Rare Item) Forever Lasting Lighter: A lighter that will never run out of fuel no matter how much you use it.


    (Rare Item) First Aid Kit: A compact first aid kit containing bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other essentials for treating minor injuries and ailments.


    Rare Item: Grappling Hook A handheld device with a hook and rope, useful for climbing, traversing difficult terrain, or disarming opponents.


    (Uncommon Item) Stainless Steel Sporks x 23: A set of 23 durable and versatile utensils combining the functionality of a spoon and fork.


    (Uncommon Item) Empty Portraits x 2: Two finely crafted portrait frames, waiting to be filled with memories or artwork. Each frame is elegantly designed, offering a blank canvas to showcase cherished moments or creative expressions. Ideal for personalizing your living space or as thoughtful gifts.


    (Uncommon Item) Sheet''s of mint scented paper x 34: A collection of 34 pristine sheets of paper, delicately infused with a refreshing mint scent.


    (Uncommon Item) 9mm pistol: A reliable, compact firearm chambered for 9mm rounds. Known for its accuracy and ease of use, this pistol is an effective choice for self-defense or tactical situations. It comes with a standard magazine and safety features, ready for immediate use.


    (Uncommon Item) Medkits x 10: A set of 10 comprehensive medkits, each containing supplies for treating a variety of injuries and emergencies. With enough provisions to care for up to 20 people, these kits are essential for ensuring health and safety in challenging situations, whether at home, in the field, or during emergencies.


    (Uncommon Item) Stainless Steel Insulated Mug: A durable, insulated mug to keep beverages hot or cold for extended periods, ideal for coffee, tea, or cold drinks on the go. X 13


    (Uncommon Item) Collapsible Water Bowl: A collapsible bowl for pets, allowing them to drink water or eat during walks or travel, promoting their comfort and hydration. X 9


    (Uncommon Item) Self-Watering Planters: Planters equipped with a self-watering system, ensuring that indoor plants receive adequate moisture and reducing the frequency of watering. X 6


    (Uncommon Item) Stainless Steel Reusable Straw Set: A set of reusable metal straws, often accompanied by a cleaning brush and a travel pouch, reducing single-use plastic waste. X 5


    (Uncommon Item) Reading Light: A clip-on or portable reading light with adjustable brightness, allowing for comfortable reading in low-light conditions. X 3


    (Uncommon Item) Portable Clothesline: A lightweight and compact clothesline with clips or hooks, ideal for drying clothes while traveling or camping. X 4


    (Uncommon Item) Bike Repair Kit: A compact kit containing essential tools for bicycle repair, including tire levers, patch kits, and a mini pump, ensuring riders can handle common issues during bike trips. X 6


    (Common Item) Safety Whistle: An emergency whistle with a loud, piercing sound, essential for attracting attention during outdoor adventures or emergencies. X 12


    (Common Item) Foldable Travel Umbrella: A durable and compact umbrella that folds into a small size, making it easy to carry in a purse or backpack for unexpected rain. X 34


    (Common Item) Travel Spice Containers: Small, refillable containers for carrying spices and seasonings, allowing travelers to add flavor to meals while on the road. X 23


    (Common Item) Travel Sewing Kit: A compact sewing kit with threads, needles, buttons, and scissors, allowing for quick repairs on clothing and fabrics while traveling. X 7


    (Common Item) Portable Folding Chair: A lightweight and foldable chair that is easy to carry, perfect for outdoor events, picnics, or camping trips. X 8


    (Common Item) Reusable Shopping Bags: Durable, foldable bags that can be reused for grocery shopping, reducing the use of single-use plastic bags and contributing to environmental conservation. X 41


    (Common Item) Bike Lock: A sturdy bike lock to secure bicycles and prevent theft, allowing peace of mind when parking bikes in public places. X 20


    (Common Item) Cobwebs x 76: A delicate network of sticky silk threads spun by a spider, this cobweb is an emblem of neglect and time''s passage.


    (Common Item) Scented Mint Lotion x 10: Gives off the masculine scent of mint.


    (Common Item) Broken clocks x 4: Clocks that were once in use but have broken down overtime until they simply stopped working.


    (Common Item) LED flashlight: A compact, powerful light source equipped with energy-efficient LED technology.


    (Common Item) Wine Cooler: A sleek, modern appliance designed to chill and store wine at the optimal temperature.


    (Common Item) Rusted Ax: A heavy, weathered ax with a blade tarnished by rust and years of neglect.


    (Common Item) Napkins: Use it to wipe whatever is dirty. X 99

 Chapter 61 - 60: Routine Traffic Stop

    Chapter 61: Chapter 60: Routine Traffic Stop


    "Hello officer." Ricky reached the border, only to be greeted by a sea of policemen.


    One man, with a deliberate stride, approached his car and leaned down to the open window, his gaze sharp and assessing.


    "Ricky." Dewey tipped his hat to Ricky, who let out a weary sigh, already sensing that trouble was on the horizon.


    "Passport and registration please." Dewey asked as Ricky pulled out his red passport while taking Chores from his and handing it to Dewey.


    "Hmmmmmmmm, and the car''s registration." Dewey asked, prompting Ricky to frown as he handed over the registration he had signed after Henry got him this car.


    "Here." Ricky handed over the registration, and Dewey scrutinized it briefly before turning his gaze back to Ricky.


    "Man, Ricky, it''s uncanny how much you resemble a guy named Antonio Vispici who came through here a couple of days ago." Dewey laughed, both of them knowing full well he used his fake passport when coming through here.


    "I thought you said that you weren''t going to come after me-" Ricky changed the subject but Dewey waved his hand.


    "I''m not, this is a routine traffic stop." Dewey cut him off, making Ricky all but scoff.


    "That''s bullsh*t and you know it." Ricky shook his head, while Dewey sighed and handed the passports back to him.


    "I really didn''t want it to come to this, Ricky," Dewey said, his voice tinged with regret.


    "You''re just a kid, but even kids get caught up in wars. Boys, search the vehicle." Dewey walked back to the array of cops, Ricky frowning before Chester hopped onto the steering wheel.


    "Ricky, the Fourth Amendment''s protection against unlawful search and seizure generally prohibits arbitrary vehicle searches by police. If the police search your car without a warrant, your permission, or a valid reason, they violate your constitutional rights." Chester reminded Ricky, who suddenly remembered that he had his own lawyer on speed dial.


    Throughout all the time Chester had been Ricky''s familiar, he had only ever been relied upon for his abilities.


    Deep down, Chester longed to be more than just a familiar; he wanted to be seen as a respected comrade, eager to prove his worth beyond his given role.


    "Hey, you know you guys are violating my fourth amendment right to-.......what was it again-oh, you can''t search my car without a warrant, my permission, or a valid reason since they violate your-my constitutional rights." Ricky started to repeat what Chester had said, but stumbled halfway through, prompting Chester to politely repeat himself.


    That single sentence made the border guards and the approaching police officers pause, their attention shifting back to Dewey, who raised an eyebrow in response.


    "Ricky, I know you''re smuggling drugs for your father." Dewey spoke, clearly understanding the situation, but he knew that what seemed obvious to him didn''t necessarily hold weight with the law.


    "Ask him where his warrant is and if there is no warrant, then ask him to please state his probable cause which is defined as: if there is a reasonable basis for believing that a crime may have been committed (for an arrest) or when evidence of the crime is present in the place to be searched." Chester quickly updated Ricky, who nodded along, somewhat vacantly, to his words.


    "Where''s your warrant and if there''s no warrant then where is your f*cking probable cause!" Ricky gestured in frustration towards Dewey, swearing in his heart to give Chester everything he wanted once they were back.


    Chester''s Favorability: 68(+3)


    "The kids got a point there Mr. Dewey-" An officer spoke up, but Dewey quickly extended his hand to signal for silence.


    "You really want to be difficult with this?" Dewey asked, but Ricky merely shrugged, openly admitting his desire to be as difficult as possible.


    He didn''t care; even if they searched the car, all the evidence was securely locked away in his storage.


    In fact, Ricky was hoping to embarrass Dewey or make him look bad, just to get a quick laugh.


    "You''re right, I don''t have a warrant but I received an anonymous tip and an anonymous tip can demonstrate sufficient evidence of reliability to provide reasonable suspicion to make an investigatory stop." Dewey informed Ricky, who instinctively glanced at Chester who turned around, squinting at Dewey with a challenged gaze.


    "The United States Supreme Court has rejected the argument that reasonable cause for an investigative stop can only be based on the officer''s personal observation, rather than on information supplied by another person, Repeat that Ricky, word for word." Chester wasn''t going to be outdone in a field he had spent countless hours researching as Ricky nodded in agreement.


    "The United States Supreme Court has rejected the argument that reasonable cause for an investigative stop can only be based on the officer''s personal observation, rather than on information supplied by another person." Ricky repeated Chester''s request, and Dewey started to say something but then shut his mouth.


    The surrounding government employees were clearly out of their depth; although they were enforcers of the law, they hadn''t studied it with the same depth as a lawyer would.


    "Ha, alright, what''s the case law-"


    "Robinson v. Virginia."


    "Robinson v. Virginia."


    Ricky repeated Chester''s words, and it evidently had its effect as Dewey fell silent, visibly frustrated, as the officer turned his gaze toward him.


    Gnashing his teeth, Dewey was certain that Ricky was transporting money from the drug deal, following the tip-off he had received.


    Dewey was utterly convinced of his source as he gazed intently at the car, knowing that finding the money would send ripples through the Luciano family.


    He understood all too well that if he wanted to strike a blow against the Luciano family and Lucky, he needed to act before they firmly established themselves not just in Harlem, but in Manhattan as well.


    With the impending legalization of alcohol, many mafias were becoming sloppy, anticipating a shift in their profit sources.


    Lucky''s strategy was to focus on brothels and the prostitution racket since after Joe Masseria''s downfall at the hands of his own people, Lucky had absorbed a substantial portion of Masseria''s assets.


    Despite this, Lucky hadn''t been profiting as much as other mob bosses because he was heavily reinvesting in the prostitution racket, hoping it would eventually cover the costs of his bootlegging operations.


    This approach proved advantageous, though Lucky had expanded too rapidly and Dewey had managed to grab hold of his coat tails and slow him down, but not his efforts.


    However, if they could seize this money, it would dramatically shift the dynamics of the game.


    "Search the vehicle." Dewey issued orders to the other officers, but Ricky and Chester both scoffed in response.


    "You can''t search-" Ricky knew his rights, or better yet, Chester knew their rights and could tell this was illegal.


    "SEARCH HIS VEHICLE GODDAMMIT!" Dewey couldn''t afford to let that weed money fall into the Luciano family''s hands, which is why he was so anxious and reckless.


    "Ricky Luciano, please step out of the car." The officer hesitated and asked a question, but Ricky considered resisting before a realization struck him.


    "Yes, let them illegally search the vehicle." Chester confirmed Ricky''s realization, prompting Ricky to get out of the car with Chores following behind.


    The officers immediately reached for their weapons, while Chores looked down at them with a menacing, brutish demeanor.


    "STAND DOWN!" Dewey quickly intervened, halting the officers as they hesitated and then lowered their guns.


    Unlike Dewey, Ricky and Chores remained completely calm, a demeanor that unsettled the district attorney.


    10 minutes later


    "Mr. Dewey we didn''t find anything-" One of the officers came back, scratching the back of his neck at the awkwardness of this situation.


    "Strip the car bare." Dewey''s startling words echoed as Barko stepped forward, but Ricky intervened to stop him.


    "Let him, although the destruction of property won''t hold up in court, this will strengthen your unwarranted and illegal search." Chester explained the situation clearly, while Ricky simply watched.


    He observed as the officers methodically dismantled his prized car, a gift from Henry Ford Jr. II.


    They took apart every component be it cushion, tires, and even the engine until nothing was left but the bare frame.


    "How-" Dewey clutched his forehead, seeing the car literally barren before him but not even a single nickel was found.


    "Hey idiot."


    Dewey looked baffled as he glanced to the side, realizing there wasn''t a single gram of weed in the car as Ricky stood up, dusting off his pants, and took in the scene with a quiet satisfaction.


    "Do you know how badly you just screwed up?" Ricky said, his tone laced with cynicism.


    "I''m gonna f*cking bury you now, and you''ll have to watch while I repeat what I told you on that train." Ricky laughed darkly, and Chores also stood up, while Dewey squinted, his expression a mix of frustration and concern.


    "Are you threatening me-"


    "Anyone who agrees to testify against Dewey will be left out of my lawsuit." Ricky interrupted and proclaimed to the surrounding officers who knew they messed up.


    "Mr. Luciano-"


    "Please step back." Chores intervened, stepping in before a policeman could grovel at Ricky''s feet, putting distance between himself and his boss.


    At this moment, Dewey''s entire world began to crumble.


    The foundation upon which he had planned to build his future career was giving way beneath him.


    Ever since he had entangled himself with Ricky Luciano, everything had started to go wrong.


    Every time Dewey thought he had an opportunity to gain the upper hand, Ricky was always there to thwart it, driving him closer to the edge of madness.


    The problem wasn''t just that Ricky had outmaneuvered him and knocked him down several pegs, it was that, in this moment, Dewey no longer saw himself as above anyone.


    Not above the law, nor the good man he once believed himself to be as Ricky hadn''t just beaten Dewey; he had shattered Dewey''s very perception of justice.


    It was then that a memory resurfaced, his confrontation with the source of the tip, just days earlier.


    *Flashback*


    "Ricky Luciano."


    A small bit of laughter echoed from the shadowy figure, the hood partially sliding back to reveal a single toothpick clenched between his teeth and a broad, toothy smile spreading across his face.


    "What do you want to know about the so-called prince?" The man said, gesturing toward Dewey.


    "And keep in mind, you get one answer," The man further explained as Dewey thought about his question for a long time, weighing his options carefully


    "A while back, Detective Albert was chasing a car containing Ricky Luciano where he was able to escape across the old cricket bridge." Dewey explained, recounting everything his old friend had written down.


    "The problem is there''s a chunk missing in the center of the bridge, making it impossible for Detective Albert to still give chase." Dewey explained, grabbing his head since it was hard to believe from simply reading it.


    "But a car managed to drive over it-"


    "Speed it up Mr. Suit, I ain''t got all day." The man gestured, and Dewey, though frowning, nodded in agreement while taking a deep breath.


    "Is Ricky Luciano a mutant?" Dewey asked the single question that had been gnawing at him, the one responsible for Ricky''s seemingly endless ability to get away with everything.


    He thought back to the earlier recorded instance of the Five Points Gang leader''s death, where Ricky just happened to be present.


    Then there was the sudden secrecy surrounding his adoption, and all the scenarios where it should have been impossible for Ricky to emerge unscathed, yet somehow, he always did.


    "Yes, Ricky Luciano is a dirty f*cking mutant."


    *End Flashback*


    "He''s a mutant." Dewey made his proclamation, knowingly crossing the very line he had set up.


    He was fully aware of the consequences that would follow, but in that moment, he accepted what was to come and knew that this was the only way.


    The surroundings suddenly went dead silent, everyone in Ricky''s sphere of influence stunned by Dewey''s sudden proclamation.


    The officers, who had been raised with Texas beliefs deeply ingrained in their blood, widened their eyes in disbelief as they turned toward a shocked Ricky.


    ''Sorry kid.'' Dewey knew he was breaking his own promise and was about to hand this kid a death sentence.


    But deep down, in the very core of his being, he also knew that if Ricky returned with that money, the Luciano family would recover from everything Dewey had worked so hard to dismantle.


    "What does that have to do with stopping me-" Ricky genuinely asked a question, but before he could finish, all the officers instinctively reached for their guns, tension thick in the air.


    "HANDS UP MUTANT!" The officer who had nearly been groveling at Ricky''s feet moments earlier suddenly shifted, unholstering his gun and pointing it directly at Ricky.


    The government was well aware of mutants and their increasing numbers, particularly in the South, where they were hung on trees by the dozen.


    In New York, and among many religious communities, there might be a tendency to overlook or tolerate such matters regarding other races they didn''t quite find equal.


    However, for those raised in the South with deeply ingrained beliefs, there was no chance of letting Ricky off the hook.


    "You''re kidding." Ricky spoke, finally experiencing the discrimination and hatred faced by mutants firsthand.


    As he prepared himself, a grim resolve set in to deal with the officers, ready to confront them all and end the situation once and for all as he was prepared to slather the ground below them in their blood.


    "STAND DOWN, STAND THE F*CK DOWN!" A black car sped into the area, coming to a halt nearby as the window rolled down.


    A man hurriedly exited the vehicle, moving swiftly toward the scene as his beer gut heavily bounced with every stride.


    "Senator Sheppard?" A nearby officer, clearly confused, asked what was happening as Sheppard ran up to them, coming to a stop directly in front of Ricky.


    "All of you best stop it here before your bodies are found at the depths of the Rio Grande, ya here?" Sheppard informed everyone of the situation, while Dewey bit his lip, acutely aware that his career was hanging in the balance.


    Though Dewey saw himself as righteous, he wasn''t exactly a paragon of virtue and was already analyzing his next steps.


    "Senator, he''s one of those freaks!" An officer aimed his gun at Ricky, who rolled his eyes in exasperation.


    "You''ll stand down, officer or I''ll have your badge." Sheppard spoke with a serious tone, and the officers exchanged uneasy glances before reluctantly lowering their guns.


    "Senator, I can explain-" Dewey stepped forward, trying to plead his case but the Senator was having none of it.


    "Oh you''ll explain alright, but that''s for later." Sheppard adjusted his stance and wiped his forehead with a handkerchief, glancing over at Dewey.


    "Ricky, I apologize for them. Would you mind if I gave you a ride?" Sheppard turned to Ricky with a smile and a nod, signaling for him to follow.


    Ricky complied, walking towards the Senator''s car and as they moved, Ricky cast a final glance at Dewey, who glared back with a clenched jaw and gritted teeth, taking a deep breath to control his frustration.


    Ricky climbed into Sheppard''s car, with Chores and Barko taking another vehicle. Sitting across from Sheppard, Ricky settled into his seat, ready for the ride.


    "I know we haven''t met formally, but you might be familiar with my associate, Senator Robert," Sheppard said, extending his hand with a nervous smile


    "He''s a good friend of mine. I also want to apologize for any actions taken by the police under my supervision." Sheppard then profusely apologized as Ricky shook his hand, acknowledging the gesture.


    ''It''s good to have connections.'' Ricky smiled, contemplating the potential benefits of a lawsuit over immediate revenge.


    Though he could have killed Dewey on the spot, he realized he stood to gain more by using the situation to his advantage.


    He wasn''t sure if the government would simply assign someone else to take over Dewey''s role, as they had with Albert.


    Therefore, Ricky decided it would be wiser to leverage this moment to send a powerful message and score additional points within his family.


    ''Man it''s f*cking awesome to have connections.'' Ricky reflected once more, realizing that attending that high school had unexpectedly yielded some benefits.


    As he released the Senator''s hand, Sheppard glanced toward the two birds perched on his shoulders.


    "I didn''t know you were a birder?" Sheppard asked with wide eyes, his gaze filled with the beautiful and serene birds on his shoulders.


    "A what-"


    "Is that a large billed crow? Such a beautiful creature."Sheppard started to geek out over something, his enthusiasm clear as Ricky raised an eyebrow


    "And is that-......a new species related to the blue mockingbird!" Sheppard gasped, his eyes widening as he gazed at the mockingbird perched on Ricky''s shoulder.


    "Ricky, I must say you are nothing what I expected and I am truly sorry for being presumptuous." Sheppard exclaimed excitedly as he pulled out a camera, his focus zeroing in on the mockingbird.


    "Oh, may I?" Sheppard realized what he was doing and looked up, a bit embarrassed as Ricky chuckled and gestured for him to go ahead, encouraging him to take the shot.


    *Snap*


    "All my colleagues will be so jealous with this find, also would you mind if I publicize this find, I will of course credit you and-"


    "Yeah, yeah, I don''t care, tell me what''s happening and how are you here?" Ricky asked and Sheppard eagerly nodded.


    *Ahem*


    "From what I know it all started-"


    *Flashback*


    "Um sir, you cannot go in there-"


    *BAM*


    *THUD*


    *BAM*


    Senator Robert flinched as he heard his male assistant collapse to the ground as the door was abruptly kicked open, and Lucky strode in, revealing himself with a commanding presence.


    "WHAT ARE YOU-" Senator Robert lashed out only to recoil back at the culprit.


    "Ricky Luciano''s father, Lucky Luciano." Lucky said, closing the door behind him with a decisive thud as the knocked-out assistant still laid sprawled out on the floor.


    "Mr. Luciano?" Senator Robert raised an eyebrow since he didn''t expect Lucky to visit him at all.


    "Call off your dog or else I''m going to make your life extremely difficult." Lucky bluntly threatened him, causing Senator Rober to raise an eyebrow.


    "What are talking about-"


    *BAM*


    Lucky slammed his cane down on Senator Rober''s desk, causing Senator Rober to take a few steps back in fear.


    Confusion and panic were evident on Senator Robert''s face as he struggled to understand what was unfolding.


    "Mr. Luciano, our son''s are friends and I even passed your paperwork through-"


    "Senator Robert, I am usually a patient man, unless it has to do with my idiotic son as he really brings this anger out of me." Lucky took a deep breath, his eyes deadly while staring into the depths of Senator Robert''s soul.


    "So forgive me when I yell in your face and ask you, WHY IS THAT MOTHERF*CKING DISTRICT ATTORNEY DEWEY GOING DOWN TO ARREST MY SON!" Lucky took out his aggression on Wagner, who raised his hands and shook his head in a defensive gesture.


    "I swear to you Mr. Luciano that I have no control over what District attorney Dewey does." Wagner said, his voice trembling, as Lucky looked on, baffled by the unexpected response.


    "You don''t-.......HE''S AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR GODDAMN DISTRICT, THE SAME ONE YOU BROUGHT IN AFTER THAT DUMBASS DETECTIVE DIED!" Lucky was infuriated at this seemingly bullsh*t response but Wagner was firm.


    "Mr. Luciano, I swear to you, I didn''t bring in Mr. Dewey." Wagner gave Lucky a perplexed look, causing Lucky to recoil slightly.


    "W-What?" Lucky asked, his voice tinged with frustration, as he awaited clarification to resolve his misunderstanding.


    "I didn''t bring Mr. Dewey in as the district attorney but rather he was sent here." Wagner replied, and Lucky gritted his teeth in frustration.


    "Who." Lucky said, his tone sharp, as he suspected that someone was maneuvering pieces on the chessboard behind the scenes and he didn''t appreciate being a pawn.


    "I apologize Mr. Luciano, but that information wasn''t privy to someone at my position." Wagner regretfully informed as Lucky stood there for a second and sat down.


    "Not privy to a senator?" Wagner regretfully informed Lucky, who stood there for a moment, processing the news before finally sitting down.


    "Then how would you like a million-dollar donation for your next campaign in exchange for two small favors?" Lucky said, sitting down in a chair as Wagner''s face lit up at the proposal.


    "And what may those favors be, Mr. Luciano?" Wagner asked while Lucky put his cane in front of him and held the handle with two hands.


    "Well the first one is pretty easy, I need you to make sure that Dewey doesn''t try any bullsh*t when my son comes back from the border." Lucky held up one of his finger in the air, Wagner nodding his head at the simple favor.


    "And the second one?"


    *FLASHBACK END*


    "So my father barged into Senator Wagner''s office and offered to donate a million dollars if you helped me?" Ricky concluded, and Sheppard smiled in confirmation.


    "Yes and I''ll be privy to a hundred thousand dollars for successfully delivering a statement on behalf of your innocence though the mutant part will be a problem but I can-"


    "Honestly speaking, is it really that important?" Ricky surprisingly asked, never experiencing a situation akin to that one before as Sheppard raised an eyebrow.


    "Son, this matter is a very sensitive topic for many people and since this action transpired in Texas, the same state that has the highest numbers of hangings for any Mutants." Senator Sheppared eased these words carefully, trying not to upset Ricky who wasn''t bothered in the least about it.


    "Then just do as my pops ordered." Ricky waved his hand, knowing that he wanted to reveal his mutant status on his own terms.


    "Very well, I''ll proceed as instructed."


    A couple hours later in a undisclosed location,


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    "Come in." A hoarse voice rang out as the door creaked open, revealing a dejected Dewey, his head hanging in shame.


    "If you''ll give me a chance to explain-"


    "Sit." The voice, shrouded in darkness, spoke.


    Dewey raised his mouth to respond, but then closed it as he nodded, walking over to the seat and sitting down.


    "Do you realize what you''ve done?" The man said, reaching out and tapping his finger on the desk. The rhythmic sound made Dewey bite his lip, clearly agitated.


    "If I didn''t act there then that money-"


    *BAM*


    "THERE WAS NOTHING!" The man yelled, causing Dewey to recoil abruptly in his chair, visibly startled by the harsh tone.


    "Not only did I have to find out about your presumptuous actions on my own, but I even learned it before someone in MY OWN DAMN PARTY!" The man yelled, leaning into the light to reveal himself in all his glory.


    A man who would etch his name into the annals of history, forever altering the trajectory of America itself, stood before them: Franklin D. Roosevelt.


    His presence was more than just a figurehead; it was the embodiment of transformation, a force destined to reshape the very fabric of a nation.


    "Mr. President-"


    "Shut up." Franklin extended his finger, silencing Dewey, who struggled to regain his composure.


    That day, when Dewey made the call from the payphone, it was to the future president, seeking an enormous favor with the promise of a substantial payoff.


    Franklin was acutely aware of the escalating threat posed by the Mafia and the Commission.


    Dewey''s initiative, though coming from a rival party, aligned with Franklin''s own objectives.


    It was a blessing in disguise that their goals converged, prompting Franklin to pull a few strategic strings to address the looming problem and tackle it together.


    However, not only did Dewey fail, but he failed miserably in the face of a mere fifteen-year-old.


    "I sent you there ahead of my presidency to dismantle the largest criminal organizations threatening our great country. You, the man renowned for winning in every endeavor, to the point where you''ve got Lucky Luciano cornered," Franklin declared, his voice filled with both frustration and an underlying sense of gravitas.


    "But you ended up losing the entire foundation I sent you down there to build, and you were horribly embarrassed, not by Lucky himself, but by his kid. HIS FIFTEEN F*CKING YEAR OLD KID! YOU WERE EMBARRASSED BY A FIFTEEN YEAR OLD CHILD, DEWEY!" Franklin''s voice rose with each word, his anger palpable as Dewey could only sit in silence, the harsh truth of Franklin''s words echoing painfully in his mind.


    Dewey had done everything right, and perhaps if Ricky hadn''t been in the picture, he might have succeeded, but that was a scenario for another timeline.


    "You''ll fall back until I enter the office, then we''ll reconvene from there." Franklin decided, with his upcoming inauguration in a few months, that something had to be done.


    "Mr. President-"


    "Dewey, you don''t get a say in this. I''m not asking but telling you to gather everything and leave until I tell you to come back. Do you understand?" Franklin demanded, his voice brooking no argument.


    Dewey closed his eyes and hung his head in shame, acknowledging the weight of Franklin''s command.


    "Yes, I understand." Dewey spoke out, lowering himself before Franklin coldly gazed at him.


    "Spread it." Franklin commented as Dewey''s ear twitched, looking up with confusion.


    "Pardon me-"


    "Spread the fact that Lucky''s boy is a mutant, I want everyone in the tri state area, including the other families, to know about this fact and don''t let Lucky cover it up." Franklin albeit demanded, Dewey absolutely shocked at this as he tucked his tail.


    "But he''s just a kid-"


    "He wasn''t just a kid when you violated his fourth amendment rights, so get it done or else I''ll wring your career in a noose like the mutants down south." Franklin promptly instructed, leaning back into the darkness as Dewey lowered his head even further.


    "Yes Mr. President."


    Meanwhile In The Vatican,


    "YOU DARE TAKE AWAY MY BIRTHRIGHT!" A man roared at the council, his voice echoing through the chamber as he stood before them, clad in a military uniform emblazoned with Nazi symbols.


    "Ersnt, please call down-"


    "I WILL NOT! THE FUHRER IS COUNTING ON ME TO BRING THE GLORY OF GOD AND SPREAD HIS NAME THROUGH THE REICH!" Ernst screeched at the priests before him, his eyes blazing with fervor.


    The priests exchanged uneasy glances, their expressions reflecting a mix of confusion and apprehension.


    "I apologize for the inconvenience Sir Ernst, but with another candidate appearing we must follow procedure-" Father Sebastion, attempting to calm the impassioned youth who was barely twenty, found his efforts met with increasing anger.


    "YOU DARE LET SOMEONE OF TAINTED BLOOD ENTER THE TRAILS OF SUCCESSION! HE IS NOT APART OF THE MAIN FAMILY AND THIS IS-"


    "Will ya stop throwing a hissy fit already? I mean you''re a grown ass man for crying out loud." Abraham scoffed from the side, and Father Sebastion, exasperated, facepalmed.


    "Abraham, you must see my way as we are both purebloods of religious families, dedicated to god that we must uphold his values-" Ernst pleaded to the side, his medals clacking together as he tried to salvage this right with another noble family of the church, but Abraham was having none of it.


    "Oh, shut the f*ck up. I''m only tied to this church because I need to kill Dracula to avoid eternal damnation, and you just get a raging boner every time you wield that stupid black sword. We are not the same." Abraham raised his hand to halt the tirade, his expression uncaring, as Ernst furrowed his brows in confusion.


    "Is this how you all feel?" Ernst turned towards the rest of the council though they all agreed.


    "Fine, then let this dirty blooded bastard participate in the trails of succession, I shall squash him for the Fuhrer." Ernst then got into a military stance as he saluted the air.


    "HEIL HITLER!"


    Author''s Note: I''ve totally been slacking on replying to some of the comments but I''ve decided to procrastinate instead of getting to them so I''ll probably respond tommorrow, if made any that is.

 Chapter 62 - 61: External Problems On Hold, Internal Problems On The Rise

    Chapter 62: Chapter 61: External Problems On Hold, Internal Problems On The Rise


    1 week later,


    "And that''s what happened." Ricky recounted the story to Eddy, who gazed out the window, the scenery outside unchanged, as if time itself had paused, leaving the world in an unbroken stillness.


    "What about the sheets?" Eddy turned to Ricky, catching the nervous smile that flickered across his face.


    "I''m getting you the best sheets money can buy, they''re being shipped from overseas," Ricky said, patting Eddy''s shoulder.


    "If you don''t mind waiting a little longer, they''ll be here in a day or two." Ricky cheerfully said, trying to excite Eddy, but as usual, he remained as unresponsive as ever.


    "I can wait another two days." Eddy whispered and Ricky ignored all fatal signs as he smiled.


    Maybe deep down, Ricky could sense the cracks forming beneath the surface, subtle yet undeniable.


    The way Eddy''s gaze seemed to linger too long on nothing, or how his responses grew more distant with each passing day, it all painted a picture Ricky didn''t want to see.


    He knew, on some level, that something was off, that the silence between them wasn''t just the comfortable quiet of old friends but a growing chasm of unresolved pain.


    Yet, Ricky clung to the hope that Eddy was getting better.


    He desperately wanted to believe that the worst had passed, that the man who had once been so full of life was slowly finding his way back.


    "Glad to hear it buddy, then I''ll be seeing you." Ricky stood up, hesitated for a brief moment as if weighing his thoughts, and then walked out the door to find Frank.


    "Frank?" Ricky asked his question just as Frank, holding a vase of flowers, gave him a nod in acknowledgment.


    "Hey Slick." Frank forced a smile, but Ricky could see the strain beneath it.


    Eddy''s condition had taken a toll on Frank, wearing down his usual cheerful and laughing demeanor until it was just a shadow of what it used to be.


    The lightness in Frank''s eyes had dimmed, and the carefree spirit Ricky had always known seemed to be slipping away.


    "Are you here to see-"


    "Yeah, I''m here to see Eddy." Frank spoke, his words hanging in the air, only deepening the awkward atmosphere between them.


    Ricky, feeling the tension, let out a dry cough, trying to break the silence but finding no relief from the uneasy stillness.


    "Then, I''ll let you get to it." Ricky quickly excused himself, walking out in a hurried manner to escape the uncomfortable situation.


    "Thanks for coming to visit him, Slick." Frank called out to Ricky, who stopped and turned around, managing to pull a smile across his face.


    "Of course Franky, what are friends for?"


    The drive to the compound was subdued, marked by a heavy silence since visiting Eddy always took a toll on Ricky''s mood, and he exhaled deeply, the weight of his frustration palpable.


    "You did good in your efforts, young Ricky." Alexander popped his head out of Ricky''s shirt pocket, a familiar sight.


    He had become so accustomed to his cozy spot in the pocket that he was either hanging out with Chester or relaxing in Ricky''s pocket.


    "You sure? Because Eddy looks like a walking corpse to me." Ricky thought, frustration mounting as he thumped his head against the steering wheel.


    "Recovery is not a simple road but an unmarked path that needs to forged by oneself, ar-"


    "Aristotle told you that, got it.'''' Ricky nodded, and Alexander scrunched his brows in response as Ricky steered the car into the compound.


    He hadn''t had the chance to talk with Lucky yet; after returning from his first-class flight, Lucky hadn''t come back to the house.


    Lucky had been working non-stop for the past week, so much so that he hadn''t even left the office.


    However, Ricky wasn''t in any rush to deliver the money as the grand spectacle he was planning could wait; timing was everything, and there was no need to rush it.


    Locking the door behind him, Ricky entered the house and made his way upstairs.


    As he approached Lucky''s office, he noticed the door slightly ajar and upon peeking inside, he saw his father sitting there, his face buried in both hands, a rare moment of vulnerability laid bare before him, catching Ricky off guard.


    "Pops, you alright-" Ricky peeked his head, expecting to be yelled at then continue on his day.


    "He did it Slick, you were right." Lucky slapped a piece of paper onto the table with a sharp thud.


    Ricky raised an eyebrow and leaned in, skimming the document with growing curiosity.


    "What are you talking about?" Ricky said, confusion evident in his voice as he glanced at Lucky after reading complete gibberish, who slowly looked up, his expression unreadable.


    "After you warned me about a rat, I went to Dewey''s office and found him already packing up, like he''d been tipped off in advance that you were heading to the border." Lucky pinched the bridge of his nose, frustration evident.


    Ricky nodding along and sinking into a chair, absorbing the weight of what Lucky had just revealed.


    "Yeah, and then you went to see Robert''s father. After realizing he had nothing to do with sending him there, you asked for a favor-"


    "I asked for two favors." Lucky raised two fingers, signaling something unspoken, causing Ricky to arch an eyebrow in response.


    "The second favor came when I found out that Dewey was pulling out of his office," Lucky informed Ricky, whose eyes widened in surprise.


    The implication was clear: Dewey was leaving the New York District Attorney''s office and the news hit Ricky like a bolt of excitement, and he nearly jumped out of his seat in joy.


    "This is f*cking great news, what are you on about, let''s get wasted in celebration-"


    "It would''ve been good news, if I didn''t ask for my next favor." Lucky quickly reached out, stopping Ricky in his tracks, halting his attempt to stand up.


    "I asked Senator Robert to make it look like Dewey was still working at the prosecutor''s office and sent out three letters," Lucky explained as he looked up as Ricky, still processing the information, glanced at the letter once more.


    "I gave three identical letters to Meyer, Frank, and Genovese, each with the same message but one key difference." Lucky held up a finger, continuing to gaze at the ceiling as he recalled the details.


    "After the word ''Freight'' I put a period on Meyer''s, a comma on Frank''s, and lastly I didn''t put anything." Lucky said, while Ricky looked down with a wry smile


    "I know I ain''t an English professor, but this is a run-on sentence, which means it was Genovese." Ricky said with a smile, pleased with his deduction only for Lucky''s face to fall into a heartbroken expression.


    "Pops, you okay?"Ricky asked, puzzled, since this was supposed to be good news, yet he seemed to be the only one celebrating.


    "Slick, my best friend, my brother, betrayed me, how could I be okay at this news?" Lucky turned his gaze to Ricky, who appeared genuinely surprised.


    "But-"


    "Slick, how would you feel if Jake betrayed you?" Lucky painted the picture, Ricky showing a weird look at this statement.


    "He wouldn''t-...." Ricky wanted to refute before realizing Lucky''s meaning, sitting in his chair with an unnerving silence.


    "Pops I''m-"


    *SIGH*


    "It''s fine, but I really want to be alone right now." Lucky waved Ricky off and, with a decisive move, retrieved a very expensive bottle of wine he had skillfully hidden from Ricky''s reach.


    "No." Lucky popped the bottle open before Ricky could even ask for a sip, grumbling to himself as he did so.


    "I didn''t want it anyways." Ricky scoffed out the door as Lucky sat in his office.


    Pouring glass after glass, Lucky tried to drown his feelings with the hazy comfort of alcohol.


    Even as he drank himself into a slumber, the sting of betrayal lingered, refusing to fade.


    Genovese had been his oldest and closest friend, though Lucky was used to being cold to those outside his family, especially those who betrayed him, this was different.


    This was the criminal underworld, where loyalty was as elusive as trust and when it was earned, you clung to it with everything you had, for to lose it could mean your own downfall.


    But what hurt the most were not the wounds you saw, but the ones that came out of nowhere.


    It felt like a dagger was lodged in his back, piercing his heart, as he bled out the love he once had for his brother.


    So, he sipped the wine slowly, trying to numb the relentless pain while gazing at the picture of him and Genovese laughing about something stupid.


    "Goddammit Genovese, what have you done?"


    The next day,


    "What the hell are you doing here?" Ricky was about to head to his car when he noticed Abraham leaning casually against it.


    "Kid, let me ex-"


    *BAM*


    *POP*


    Ricky didn''t let Abraham finish his sentence as he swung his fist with force, dislocating the old man''s jaw and sending him crashing to the ground.


    *Crack*


    "Geez kid, do you go around hitting the elderly like that?" Abraham jerked his dislocated jaw back into its rightful place, hissing at Ricky with a pained expression.


    "Only the ones that piss me off." Ricky scoffed, thinking that he''d even slap a woman if she left him for dead the way Abraham had.


    "Hey you''re pops tortured me enough-"


    "YOU LEFT ME WITH TO DIE-"


    "BUT YOU DIDN''T-"


    "You''re right." Ricky said, rolling up his sleeves as Abraham had a foreboding feeling.


    "I''ll leave you on the verge of death and then we''ll be even, what do you say?" Ricky let out a maddening chuckle and Abrahm held up his hands.


    "I come in peace not pieces, please." Abraham said, stumbling to his feet with a forced smile.


    "You sure? Because I could''ve sworn you''re a piece of sh*t." Ricky shook his head while taking a step forward.


    "Alright, alright, I''m here on behalf of the church to bring you back for the trials of succession, to inherit the position of the black knight." Abarham let out a short and brief explanation, uttering it quickly as Ricky showed a weird expression.


    "What are you-"


    "Look."Abraham pulled out an old scroll and handed it to Ricky as he took it with a puzzled expression, unfolding it carefully as he examined its contents.


    "Nope." Ricky immediately let go and raised his hands as Abraham swiftly caught the scroll before it could drop.


    The portrait within was strikingly similar to Ricky; if one didn''t notice the differences in eye and hair color, they might have mistaken it for a depiction of him.


    In reality, the portrait was of the notorious Sir Percival of Scandia.


    Ricky, overwhelmed by shock, abandoned his car and fled from Abraham, who flinched in surprise before quickly giving chase.


    "KID THIS IS SERIOUS, YOU ARE DESTINED TO INHERIT THIS POSITION!" Abraham yelled after Ricky who shook his head, increasing the distance between them.


    "NOPE, NO WAY, I CAN LITERALLY SMELL THE TROUBLES AND HEADACHES OOZING FROM THAT POSITION AND I AIN''T DOING IT!" Ricky yelled behind him as Abraham started breathing heavily and dramatically.


    "KID, THIS IS YOUR DESTINY, YOU CAN''T RUN AWAY FROM IT!" Abraham yelled after him, but Ricky only increased his speed, determined to put as much distance between them as possible.


    "WATCH ME!" Ricky laughed maniacally as he rounded the corner.


    By the time Abraham followed, Ricky had already vanished, leaving only the echoes of his laughter behind.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    "I''m too old for this sh*t." Abraham slumped against the wall, wiping his forehead with a weary hand.


    He lazily pulled out the scroll and thumped his head against the wall in frustration.


    "Why didn''t your descendant inherit your chivalry, Sir Percivial?" Abraham lamented as he stared at the drawing, his frustration palpable as he reaffirmed his commitment to his mission.


    Sent specifically to retrieve Ricky as compensation for the slap-on-the-wrist punishment imposed by the council.


    Father Sebastian had been particularly insistent, urging him to bring Ricky back, for the world needed the Black Knight.


    Unfortunately, Abraham faced a dilemma since until Ricky entered the battle for succession, the appointment of the next Black Knight was on hold.


    The old ways of the church operated this way, but there was a loophole: if Ricky were to die, the position would automatically pass to Ernst.


    Ernst already rubbed Abraham the wrong way but after hearing about the situation in Germany with the sudden rise of Htiler and the Nazi''s, he knew that the title and position couldn''t fall into Ernst''s hands.


    But most of all, Abraham understood the power of that sword and the gravity of the situation.


    Although he considered Ricky to be literal trash, Ernst was a different kind of threat, rotten to the core, spreading decay and destruction wherever he went.


    Meanwhile, Ricky eventually arrived at school and despite having run nearly three miles, he barely showed any signs of fatigue as he took his seat.


    A smile brightened Ricky''s face, only to fade when he reached the steps.


    Instead of finding his beloved Maria standing alone, he saw her accompanied by the unwelcome leech that made up Betty.


    ''God dammit.'' Ricky sighed as he walked forward.


    When Maria saw him, her face lit up, and she rushed over to him with evident excitement.


    "Ricky!" Maria leaped into Ricky''s arms, as she often did, and he caught her effortlessly, twirling her around with a grin.


    "How''s my little dove doing?" Ricky pecked Maria on the lips, turning to her with a warm smile as he completely ignored Betty, who looked down, feeling a pang of guilt.


    Unlike Ruth, Betty genuinely valued Maria''s friendship.


    However, her issues with Joseph led her to monopolize Maria''s time, which in turn fueled Ricky''s disdain for her presence which she obviously felt bad for.


    "You''re free tonight, right?" Ricky asked since he wanted to take Maria out, only for her to show a guilty expression.


    "Ricky I-"


    "No, I understand." Ricky pulled Maria into a warm hug, and she smiled, surrendering to the comfort of his embrace.


    "You''re the bestest boyfriend ever!" Maria said, as Ricky, clearly frustrated, stared directly at Betty, who looked away.


    "Only for my little dove."


    20 minutes later,


    *BAM*


    "Are you going to be a problem?" Ricky slammed Betty''s locker shut, making her flinch in response after he made sure Maria left for class.


    "N-No Ricky, I promise I''m not trying to get between-"


    "Seriously? I literally can''t even be around Maria without seeing you in my peripheral vision." Ricky seethed at Betty who bit her lip while waving her hands.


    Looking around to ensure the halls were empty, Ricky didn''t want any rumors spreading as he quickly pulled Betty aside to a more secluded spot.


    "Come with me." Ricky led Betty to the gymnasium, walked purposefully toward the storage room, and, with a rough shove, threw her inside before closing the door firmly behind him.


    "Alright spill it, why the hell can''t I even get a moment of Maria''s time-"


    "I DON''T KNOW!" Betty yelled, her voice trembling with fear, as Ricky locked the door behind them.


    "What do you mean you don''t know, she tells me that you-"


    "I keep telling her that I''m fine, but she keeps making plans with me and insisting we talk about my feelings. I''m really sorry!" Betty began to tear up, her emotions spilling over into sobs as Ricky saw her genuine distress, he realized she wasn''t lying.


    "Huh?" Ricky tilted his head, taken aback by this sudden proclamation.


    *Sniff*


    "I swear, Ricky, I''m really not trying to come between you two. It''s just that Maria always wants to talk about my feelings. Even when I don''t want to, she insists," Betty whined, her voice quivering as Ricky began to feel a twinge of discomfort while listening to her.


    "So please don''t rape me-"


    "Whoa, whoa." Ricky halted that train of thought before it could gain traction.


    "Why would you think I was going to rape you?" Ricky initially said, while Betty held her hands up, tears streaming down her cheeks.


    "YOU THREW ME IN THIS ENCLOSED ROOM AND LOCKED THE DOOR BEHIND YOU!" Betty screamed in fright, and Ricky looked around, taking a step back to observe the situation from a third-person perspective.


    "Ohhhhhhhh~" Ricky inadvertently acknowledged that Betty had a point; his actions could indeed have been misinterpreted in that way.


    "Uh well, good news, I''m not going to rape you." Ricky gave her a finger gun gesture, but it did nothing to alleviate the tension.


    *SNIFF*


    "I WANT MY MOMMY!" Betty continued to cry as Ricky scratched his head and sighed in frustration.


    "Dammit."


    1 hour later,


    "And he never listens to me, Joseph always treats me like an object and nothing more, I want to be seen and heard." Betty sniffed, curled up against her legs, while Ricky sat on the side with a bored expression.


    "Uh huh." Ricky spoke dryly before sitting up and grabbing Betty''s collar.


    "Alright, we''re done talking now that I''ve proved that I''m not gonna rape you, so let''s get out of here." Ricky said, his words confusing Betty as she looked puzzled while he opened the storage room door.


    *Thud*


    "MARIA!" Betty gasped as Maria tumbled onto the floor, her expression filled with guilt as she glanced around.


    "How did I end up here, I could''ve sworn-" Maria played dumb, feigning amnesia.


    "Stop, and Betty get out." Ricky cut off Maria''s obvious lie and threw Betty out of the room before slamming the door shut behind her.


    *Sniff*


    "I''m going home." Betty wiped her eyes and headed out of the gymnasium, leaving Ricky and Maria alone.


    "Um, you see I-"


    "Maria, what''s wrong and why do you keep avoiding me?" Ricky got straight to the point, causing Maria to flinch.


    "I''m not avoiding you-"


    "Lie."


    "No, I''m really not-"


    "Liar."


    "....."


    Maria remained silent as Ricky waited for the truth and after a long pause, she steeled herself and prepared to speak.


    "I''m scared." Maria confessed, and Ricky felt an immediate wave of disheartenment.


    "Of me?" Ricky asked, and Maria''s eyes widened as she sprang to her feet.


    "No, oh gosh no Ricky, I love you." Maria moved in for a hug, but Ricky looked at her with a mixture of confusion and disbelief, grappling with her truthful words.


    "Then what is it?" Ricky asked as Maria buried her face in his chest, remaining there for a long time.


    "I''m scared of, you know-....sex." Maria confessed, and Ricky raised an eyebrow, a smile playing on his lips.


    "What?" Ricky let out a laugh, Maria gazing up at him with unease.


    "I-....I saw you changing one day and also saw your-" Maria''s face reddened at her implication, and Ricky quickly grasped the problem.


    "You saw my big co-"


    "RICKY!" Maria, overcome with embarrassment, hit his chest, while Ricky burst into hysterical laughter.


    "For a second there I thought you just didn''t like me anymore." Ricky let out a sigh of relief as Maria pinched him.


    "I would never lose these feelings, I love you Ricky." Maria said with a toothy smile as Ricky nodded along, caressing her cheek.


    "I love you too." Ricky said, though for some reason, Maria sensed his tone was a bit more half-hearted than usual but she shrugged it off.


    "And when I told Aunty Ninfa, she said it would hurt at first but reassured me that if your strokes were as grand as the wave itself, I''d be fine-...whatever that means," Maria confessed, nestled in Ricky''s arms.


    "Wait, how many people know about my cock?" Ricky asked with a raised brow and Maria actually had to think about it.


    "Maria."


    "I''m only joshing ya, I only told her." Maria laughed at Ricky''s deadpan expression as they both let out sighs.


    "Why didn''t you just tell me-"


    "Because I was scared you''d be mad." Maria confessed her deepest fear, but Ricky only shook his head.


    "I would never be mad at you for being uncomfortable." Ricky genuinely spoke, his tone fill with warmth that settled Maria''s distressed heart.


    "You''re different Maria, you''re special, unlike any others, I''ll wait for you." Ricky started to speak but paused as an image of Raven flashed in his mind as he quickly turned his attention to Maria, who covered her mouth in surprise.


    "Ricky~" Maria''s eyes welled up with emotion as she cupped Ricky''s cheeks, drawing him into a deep, sensual kiss.


    Their lips moved in unison, with Maria surrendering entirely to Ricky''s embrace and when they finally pulled back, the connection between them lingered in the air, leaving Maria breathless and utterly captivated.


    "I love you, Ricky." Maria''s eyes sparkled with affection as she smiled warmly, and Ricky couldn''t help but return the gesture, his own smile reflecting the connection they shared.


    "I love you too."


    6 hours later


    [Short R18]


    "Ha~"


    "Ha~"


    "Ha~"


    Alina clutched the bedsheets of the hotel bed where she and Ricky had first tangled themselves together.


    Alina moaned out fanatically, her body completely surrendered to Ricky''s control as he held her legs apart, thrusting deeply into the pussy that would soon bear his child.


    The thought of leaving his mark on her body forever turned him on, fueling his desire as he plunged deeper into her pussy.


    Ricky pushed her legs back beside her moaning face, driving his cock deeper into her as her body had fully adapted to his length, taking him in completely with each thrust.


    Gritting his teeth, Ricky quickened his pace, his balls slapping rhythmically against her ass, creating a lewd, unspoken melody that echoed their intense entanglement.


    His balls throbbed as he delivered one final, powerful thrust, releasing his entire load deep inside Alina.


    Her head pressed into the sheets beneath them, while Ricky massaged her ass, his eyes lingering on the graceful curve of her beautiful back.


    "God I really needed this Alina, I really needed you." Ricky said, spreading her ass to reveal the tight little hole nestled just above her pussy.


    Have Alina completely give herself to you(Complete):


    Reward: +3 Vitality


    Ricky let Alina recover from their bout as he stood by the side, staring down at his wallet with an unreadable expression.


    Once she had regained her composure, Alina crawled over to the edge of the bed, sitting behind him and wrapping her arms around his back.


    She gently kissed his neck, her tender touch conveying a mix of affection and intimacy while her eyes filled with a warmth only destined for him.


    "What''s wrong?" Alina sensed something weighing on Ricky''s mind and leaned in, letting out a sensual whisper.


    *Sigh*


    "I''ve just got a lot on my plate and too many people keeping things from me," Ricky said, glancing at the black card in his hand.


    He didn''t call Lucky out on the high table situation after seeing him completely distraught after the betrayal of Genovese, but the frustration was evident in his tone.


    "The continental?" Alina rested her head on his shoulder, her eyes fixed on the black card in his hand.


    "It''s something that Lucky gave me way back, why, do you know it?" Ricky turned to her as she nodded, her gaze locked on him before she leaned in and gave him a tender peck on the lips.


    "Not really." Alina pouted, sad that she couldn''t alleviate the unease in his heart.


    "All I know is that there''s a hotel that only accepts reservations for exclusive members, or whatever that means." Alina shrugged, having heard murmurs about how the hotel turns away many people unless they have a reservation or membership.


    "Hmmmmmm." Ricky hummed thoughtfully before sliding the card back into his wallet. Even though he didn''t understand why Lucky hadn''t shared more details, he still trusted him.


    "Ah, I almost forgot." Ricky leaned down, rummaging through his coat pocket before pulling out a set of keys.


    "Bought it and put the house under your name, told you I''d take care of you." Ricky smiled as he handed the keys to Alina.


    She took them carefully into her hands, her eyes wide with awe as if they were a national treasure.


    "It''s a two story, four bedroom, three bath, and a place where Marco, Danielle-I mean Sofia, and our little one can all have rooms." Ricky smirked at her priceless reaction and placed a gentle kiss on her cheek.


    "Oh Ricky~" Alina''s eyes welled up with tears as she kissed him passionately, overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness of the gift.


    Ricky stood up and positioned himself at the foot of the bed, slipping on his shirt before reaching for his pants.


    "Do you want me to send you off with a goodbye." Alina whispered softly as she slid down, positioning her face at the front of his towering cock..


    "I mean, if you wouldn''t mind."

 Chapter 63 - 62: Inside A Supposedly ’Normal’ Day

    Chapter 63: Chapter 62: Inside A Supposedly ''Normal'' Day


    The next day


    *DING*


    (Uncommon Skill) Beginner Archery: Beginner Archery is the introductory level of proficiency in the skill of archery, which involves the use of a bow to propel arrows towards a target. Individuals with this skill are typically in the early stages of learning and mastering the fundamental techniques, including proper stance, grip, aiming, and release.


    "Good, young Ricky." Alexander applauded as Ricky''s arrow finally struck the center mark of the target, his practice bow skillfully crafted by a reliable carpenter from Little Italy.


    *Huff*


    Ricky exhaled deeply, tilting his head back as he tried to catch his breath, his chest rising and falling as his gaze shifted to Alexander, who stood proudly, eyes fixed on the impaled arrow.


    Alexander was an unforgiving instructor, his methods relentless and exacting. For the past hour, he had pushed Ricky to his limits, demanding precision and consistency with no room for error.


    The target was small, barely the size of a fist, and placed at a distance that seemed almost unreasonable for someone of Ricky''s experience.


    Yet, Alexander insisted he hit it ten times in a row without a single miss as each miss earned a cold, unflinching critique, and every successful shot was met with a brief nod of approval before the next command.


    As Ricky trained under Alexander''s watchful eye, objects around them began to lift from the ground like small stones, leaves, and even a few scattered arrows hovered gently in the air, suspended by an invisible force.


    Ricky''s mental powers, though still in their early stages of development, responded to the strain of his archery training, pushing him to multitask in ways that stretched his concentration to the breaking point.


    Other than reading books, something Ricky had reluctantly begun to do in his spare time,neither he nor Alexander truly knew how to train his growing mental powers.


    Still, Ricky had taken it upon himself to learn about this power more, diving into whatever material he could find.


    Alexander, always strategic, believed multitasking between combat and mental focus would sharpen Ricky''s skills.


    That''s why, whenever Ricky had a moment to himself, an object would hover in the air, balanced on an invisible pedestal of thought as he practiced maintaining his concentration over whatever he chose to lift.


    "Alexander, I wanna try-"


    "That is a bad idea, Ricky." Chester said by the side, already knowing what Ricky wanted to do.


    "Oh yeah? Watch this." Ricky said, setting the bow on the ground gently since god forbid if he tossed it, Alexander would lose it.


    "Three sunflower seeds say he falls on his face." Chester rushed to Alexander''s side as the gerbil let out a weary sigh, exasperated by his student''s reckless actions.


    "Two sunflower seeds say he crashes into a nearby structure," Alexander remarked, glancing back at Chester with a smirk.


    Below, a controlled burst of fire ignited beneath Ricky''s feet, lifting him slowly into the air like a space shuttle preparing for launch.


    The flames were steady but fierce, glowing in hues of red and orange as they carried him higher with calculated precision.


    Ricky had little trouble forming force fields to ride on, having already understood the concept of creating an invisible path beneath his feet.


    The real issue was his speed, in Ricky''s opinion, was moving at an agonizingly slow pace, which frustrated him to no end.


    To make up for it, he began integrating his pyrokinetics, using controlled bursts of fire to propel himself forward.


    With the addition of his newfound flames, Ricky aimed to ride on a stream of fire, though his execution was far from stable.


    More often than not, he''d crash spectacularly, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake as nearby structures crumbled under the force of his failed attempts.


    "I''m doing it!" Ricky let out an excited shout, but Alexander remained silent, simply waiting patiently.


    The surge of his emotions caused the flames beneath Ricky to flare up unexpectedly.


    However, only the tips of his feet ignited, causing an imbalance to form at his heels which sent his entire body flipping upside down.


    Ricky flew into the nearby fountain with a dramatic splash, while Chester sighed and handed Alexander his sunflower seeds.


    "Now grab your fashioned spear." Alexander commanded Ricky, who sighed from the fountain before crawling out and approaching the spear with a disheartened expression.


    Gripping the weapon, Ricky assumed his stance as Alexander circled around him, checking for any necessary adjustments.


    "Begin." Alexander nodded to himself as Ricky swiped the air with the spear, then lowered his stance until his legs were bent.


    "Stab."


    "Heyah!" Ricky yelled, piercing the air with his strength while Alexander nodded his head.


    Alexander always specified that Ricky make this sound, as it allowed the air to circulate around his body rather than being trapped when brandishing the spear, supplementing his breathing control and body movement


    Additionally, it may help to release tension and ensure proper airflow, which can improve overall effectiveness and reduce fatigue.


    "Retract."


    "Retract."


    *PFFFT*


    Henry, the mocking bird, suddenly appeared out of nowhere and started mocking Alexander as Ricky immediately tried to hold in his laughter but was failing.


    Ricky had named his new mockingbird Henry.


    First, Ricky thought it would be hilarious to name a bird after the trust fund kid, Henry Ford Jr. II.


    Secondly, the bird''s tendency to repeat others'' words, combined with the confusion it created, made Ricky laugh.


    Upon receiving Henry, Ricky discovered that the bird couldn''t speak like the others and could only ''mock'' their words, though it seemed to do so specifically to Alexander for some reason.


    Henry''s favorability with Ricky had risen to 67, as the bird evidently enjoyed Ricky''s encouraging laughter when it mocked others.


    Ricky''s constant laughter seemed to please Henry; however, the bird only mocked Alexander, as Chester completely ignored Henry''s existence whenever it tried to imitate him.


    Now faced with only one option, Henry wholly turned his sights towards the gerbil as Ricky knew that Alexander was a bit fiery at times, but Henry really brought out the worst in him.


    "UGH, I''LL KILL YOU!" Alexander finally lost his temper, adorning himself in his armor as Henry copied him and they butted heads.


    "UGH, I''LL KILL YOU!" Henry mocked with a grin, Alexander''s eyes turning red though when he went to swipe at him, Henry flew into the air.


    "GET DOWN HERE AND FACE ME LIKE A MAN!"


    "GET DOWN HERE AND FACE ME LIKE A MAN!"


    "UGHHHHHHHHHHH!" Alexander grabbed his head and let out an annoyed shriek as Henry started to snicker.


    "Alright Henry, that-"


    *PFFFT*


    Ricky couldn''t help it and let out another loud, hysterical laugh as Alexander started angrily throwing small pebbles at Henry, who easily dodged them.


    "Seriously though Henry, I really need to do this training." Ricky waved him off while Henry looked at Alexander, gave him a smirk, then flew back to Ricky''s room.


    "YOU BETTER FLEE YOUR POOR EXCUSE FOR A WINGED CREATURE!" Alexander reprimanded Henry as he fiercely turned to his young pupil.


    "WHY MUST YOU ENCOURAGE THAT UNRULY BEAST!" Alexander stomped while watching Ricky get into his stance.


    "Why do you always fall for his provocations?" Ricky retorted back at Alexander and went to respond but simply sighed.


    "Forget that useless thing, let us continue."


    Although Ricky was a slacker by nature, the fight with Xarus had really spooked him and for the second time in his life, he had helplessly lain at death''s door, awaiting an unruly fate.


    But in the last second, he had help from the random shopkeeper Elijah who took pity on his situation and rushed to save him.


    However, Ricky knew he couldn''t rely on luck every time, and for that reason, he didn''t want his life to be left to the flip of a coin.


    This realization drove Ricky to focus on improving himself through natural means, rather than waiting for a skill to come by chance or through an accidental outcome.


    ''I need to go on a trip or something, that way I can let off as much steam as possible.'' Ricky thought to himself as he swung the spear, only for Alexander to reprimand him loudly.


    He often thought about it, wanting to simply go and knock up a few girls to get instantly stronger.


    However that was a simply temporary fix since even though he attained more abilities, he was still very poor at wielding them and secondly, the fear of child support and responsibilities that came with fatherhood from his one night stands tracking him down.


    That had actually happened to Ricky in his last life, having gone on a drunken bender all the way through Mexico and as a result, wound up in the most awkward conversation of his life 18 years later.


    However, if Ricky decided to go all out on a trip, this era would be ideal and information wasn''t readily available at everyone''s fingertips, which made things incredibly challenging but also offered some unique advantages.


    An hour passed, and Ricky decided it was time to move on to swordsmanship.


    Grabbing the sword, he readied his stance, feeling the weight and balance of the blade in his hands as his muscles tensed in anticipation as he prepared for the rigorous training session ahead.


    "Literally, the spitting image of Percival."


    Ricky turned his head to the side to see Abraham taking a swig of a metal flask, sitting on the wall that surrounded the mansion.


    "Guys-" Ricky immediately looked to the side, about to call for the guards supposed to be sweeping the compound throughout the day.


    "Whoa c''mon kid, can''t you at least hear me out?" Abraham eased him with a nervous sweat, jerking his head to the sides to make sure the coast was clear while Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "Listen old man, I get your memory is fading on you but I''m not about to become a celibate priest." Ricky shook his head since the priesthood wasn''t for him.


    "Ha, you look like a virgin to me so what''s the problem?" Abraham joked, hopping off the wall and plopping down next to Alexander before scratching his little head.


    "Are you kidding?" Ricky asked genuinely, having seen his own reflection, and Abraham''s words didn''t seem to match what he saw.


    "Have you seen me? I look like a greek god, my jawline looks like it was chiseled by de vinci himself, my jawline is so goddamn sharp it can cut f*cking granite." Ricky arrogantly boasted about himself, prompting Abraham to scoff and side-eye Alexander, who mirrored the same expression of disdain.


    "Alright be real with me, can this gerbil understand me?" Abraham asked, his gut telling him that it could but wanted to make sure.


    "Thank you!" Alexander spoke, though it was more to himself, as they rarely assumed he could understand them.


    "Are you sure you want to know?" Ricky asked Abraham who raised an eyebrow while looking at Alexander.


    "Yes?"


    "Abraham van Heisling, meet Alexander The Great trapped in the body of a gerbil." Ricky didn''t bother to hide it and revealed the truth, causing Abraham to look surprised as he glanced down at the gerbil.


    "Pleasure to meet a mighty warrior such as yourself." Alexander stuck out his paw, but all Abraham heard were squeaks as he awkwardly shook the rodent''s tiny hand.


    "I-.....I really don''t get this one." Abraham confessed since this didn''t make a lick of sense.


    "Welcome to my life." Ricky spoke while pulling out a cigarette, causing Abraham to raise an eyebrow in curiosity.


    "It''s to cut down on my drinking, if you''re wondering." Ricky said since he''s been a little too f*cked up lately and thought it was time to substitute one problem for another.


    *Sigh*


    "You''re literally nothing like Ernst." Abraham said as these two were complete polar opposites.


    If Ricky inherited Percivals looks, then Erst inherited everything else since he was everything that a black knight should be except for a small problem.


    ''At least he''s not a fanatic Nazi.'' Abraham took a swig from his flask, watching Ricky get into his stance with the cigarette still in his mouth.


    With Hitler''s rise to prominence in the last year, the Nazi campaign has gained considerable traction due to the deterioration of Germany.


    Preaching for a better tomorrow, the Germans latched onto Hitler''s fantical ideals easily as Ersnt was one of those foolish few.


    However, compared to regular Nazi''s, due to Hitler''s ''Master Race'' ideologies combined with Ernst''s blond hair and blue eyes, he was treated considerably well.


    Though this was mostly due to the fact that he was a part of the old noble family which inherited the black knight every generation and after Hitler found this out, personally recruited the young and naive Ernst.


    "Listen Ricky, I''ll be real with you. You can''t let your distant relative Ersnt inherit the mantle of the Black Knight." Abraham was up front with his intentions but Ricky continued to swing the sword with Alexander guidance.


    "The guy is a lunatic and won''t ever shut up about his ideals, which seem to get crazier every time I see him." Abraham sighed, rubbing his head as he felt an oncoming headache settle in.


    "And although I haven''t been to Germany since they closed their borders, I''ve only heard horrible things that have come with the rise of these so-called ''Nazi''s''." Abraham spoke, watching as Ricky casually flicked the cigarette from his mouth to the side.


    "Listen Abraham, you seem like an asshole so I''ll break it down for you slowly this time." Ricky exhaled a cloud of smoke, pausing in his stance to glance at Abraham.


    "I''m not some chivalrous person nor do I care about others to do good deeds, because just like you, I''m also a self centered asshole." Ricky informed Abraham, who scrunched his eyebrows in irritation at being compared to him in such a rude manner.


    "I only do things that really benefit me in one way or another and maybe if they seem fun, but this Black Knight thing? Yeah, that sounds like too much sh*t on top of my already full plate." Ricky said, pointing his sword at Abraham.


    "So stop-"


    "I can''t, I know what you''re going to say and even if I wanted to, I literally can''t leave until you come back to the Vatican with me." Abraham sighed, Ricky resting the wooden sword on his shoulder.


    "Why not?" Ricky asked, baffled at this scummy old man actually adhering to something since he couldn''t imagine himself doing the same.


    "Because that stuffy place is all about the old rules and like I said earlier, if you even cared to remember, there cannot be a black knight with two potential successors." Abraham stood up and Ricky frowned.


    "But I don''t-"


    "It doesn''t matter, do you think I wanted to be born a Van Helsing? F*ck no, I wish I was a farmer out in wisconsin, yet here I am, being a goddamn vampire hunter." Abraham scornfully laughed as he pointed to himself.


    "Some people are lucky to be regular, but people like us are cursed to be things we don''t want to be. You think when I was your age that I wanted to live my life on the road while never being able to see my family?" Abraham continued with a scornful smile, while Alexander frowned from the side, impatient with how long it was taking.


    "No, but one way or another, you''re going to be dragged into this. Don''t ask me how, because I don''t know. All I can tell you is that either Ernst will get tired of waiting and track you down to kill you for the position, or you''ll come back with me of your own volition," Abraham said, giving Ricky an ultimatum as Ricky''s brows were furrowed in confusion and concern.


    "Neither." Ricky gave his option but Abarham shrugged.


    "Welp, come find me when you''re forced into one of the two scenarios since it doesn''t matter." Abraham turned and started walking back to the wall as Ricky turned to him.


    "All I wanted was to be recognized by the church so that the mafia would just f*cking accept me, I didn''t want all the baggage that came with it!" Ricky yelled at Abraham who started to laugh hysterically.


    "Well, there is a price for everything Ricky and unluckily for you, the church knows you have the power to wield a weapon that can literally cut through anything!" Abraham yelled back as he crawled up the wall.


    "I''ll be at Old Pal''s pub when you want to find me, since I can''t leave this place until I bring you back." Abraham said before hopping off the wall and disappearing from Ricky''s sight.


    *SIGH*


    "Whatever, I''ll just ignore it."


    2 hours later,


    And ignore it, Ricky did, completely forgetting about it after exiting his shower following a long day of training.


    "Henry, Alexander, let''s be civil." Chester held up his wing between the two familiars as Ricky, already prepared to tune them out, focused on getting dressed.


    "I will literally tear out his vocal cords, make a fiddle, then play the tune that Hades plays for all those tortured souls of the underworld!" Alexander threatened Henry, actually flinching for once, before smirking which only infuriated him even more.


    "Alexander, calm down-"


    "WHY ARE YOU TAKING HIS SIDE CHESTER, HE IS NOTHING BUT A LEACH ON THE BACK OF ACTUAL CIVIL CONVERSATIONS!"


    "WHY ARE YOU TAKING HIS SIDE CHESTER, HE IS NOTHING BUT A LEACH ON THE BACK OF ACTUAL CIVIL CONVERSATIONS!"


    "ARCK, I''LL LITERALLY BATHE IN YOUR BLOOD WHILE I PLUCK OFF YOUR FEATHERS TO WASH OFF THE SHIT I HAD ONCE FEASTING ON YOUR FLESH!" Alexander screeched, rushing toward Henry, who took to the skies in response while Chester sighed, and Ricky emerged from the closet, now dressed.


    "What''s with him?" Ricky remarked, noting that Alexander only makes these kinds of threats when he''s truly enraged.


    "Alexander accused Henry of cheating by looking in the reflection of your coke bottle when playing go fish-" Chester informed Ricky, trying to be the mediator of peace between them, but Alexander wasn''t having any of it.


    "ACCUSED, I KNOW THIS BIRD CHEATED!" Alexander pointed at Henry as Ricky adjusted his long sleeve.


    "Do you have a date with Maria?" Chester inquired, and Ricky nodded slightly in response.


    "I need to check in with Jake about the club, but afterwards, I''m taking Maria to dinner," Ricky informed the two as Chester nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Be good to her and don''t let her slip away-and he''s gone." Chester tried to inform him, only to realize Ricky had left.


    "Let''s start a new game, shall we?" Chester asked, Henry and Alexander squinting at each other before looking towards the crow with a burning intensity to win.


    Driving into the Cotton Club, Ricky headed to the office, only to be met with a sea of papers that overwhelmed his vision as he was taken aback by the countless stacks surrounding Jake''s desk.


    "Jake-"


    "Yes!" Jake emerged from a stack of papers, jittering side to side, while Ricky looked around the cluttered office.


    "What''s with all the papers?" Ricky grabbed a nearby paper with his face on it that read ''Ricky Lucinao is looking for the next big boxer, do you got what it takes?''.


    Ricky had wanted to get into boxing but instead of participating, he wanted to sponsor someone like Madden, the previous owner of the club.


    Although Ricky didn''t care much for the man, he understood how lucrative boxing events could be as the money from these events and the associated gambling ring was highly profitable.


    "Whoa, this is a really good picture of me." Ricky complemented himself while rubbing his chin, putting it back in place as Jake shook his head.


    "Those are the flyers I spent all night accumulating. After convincing Madame, they started circulating this morning, and her reach is far more extensive than I originally imagined," Jake said, looking up at Ricky with an excited expression.


    "I mean for a person of color, she really has a knack for business, especially connections. I see why my big bro and Lucky think so highly of her!" Jake jittered out, Ricky taking out a cigarette while raising an eyebrow, scanning his figure.


    "I mean, her reach extends all the way to Mississippi, it''s very impressive!" Jake said before pausing, lost in his own thoughts.


    "Oh, OH! And that shipment you told me to watch is going to arrive from Egypt in two weeks." Jake notified Ricky who nodded with a small smile.


    "As impressive as ever, any updates with the other two clubs?" Ricky asked, not seeing any problems with Jake, nodded while handing him a piece of paper that he didn''t care to glance at.


    "They''ll open come the end of summer, been stirring up a real buzz about ''em." Jake notified as Ricky held a thumbs up.


    "Coolio, great as every Jake." Ricky gestured only to reach the door and sigh, turning back to Jake starting to scribble something down.


    *Sigh*


    "Jake, when did you start using?" Ricky then walked back to Jake, standing in front of the desk as the man showed a baffled expression.


    "Using, like the flyers, I started using them to distribute-"


    "Jake, cut the sh*t, how many times have you been using." Ricky waved Jake''s words away, pointing his cigarette at him.


    "Once." Jake said, Ricky squinting his eyes and looking at him.


    "Once a day-" Jake finished his sentence as Ricky facepalmed at this confession.


    "Jesus christ." Ricky pinched the bridge of his nose, Jake rubbing his teeth while shrugging.


    "I really don''t see what the big problem is, I mean, I''m more efficient-"


    "The problem is that you don''t know how to pace yourself, I mean, drugs already f*ck you up enough but you''re bumping coke not once a month, but once a day?" Ricky explained for experience, rubbing his eyes as Jake simply looked at him.


    "I''m doing all the work you asked, what''s the problem-"


    "The problem is that you''re going to fast and sooner or later, you''re going to crash-"


    "I NEED IT TO DO EVERYTHING YOU ASK OF ME!" Jake slammed his hands on the desk, sizing up Ricky who didn''t back down.


    "I NEVER ASKED YOU TO F*CKING BUMP LINES OF COKE TO DO PAPERWORK, IF IT''S TOO MUCH THEN I''LL GET SOME GUYS AND MEYER-"


    "NO!" Jake screeched, Ricky becoming surprised at his intense reaction.


    "I''m really fine and I don''t need any help, I''ll taper off but don''t tell my big bro, please Slick." Jake rubbed his arm, Ricky looking at him with a lot of mixed emotions.


    "Jake-" Ricky was put in a dilemma but Jake wasn''t going to make it easy for him.


    "Slick, I never ask you for nothing, just please." Jake looked Ricky dead in the eye as the man heaved out a deep sigh.


    "Fine, but this isn''t over, but for now, give it to me." Ricky held out his hand, looking at Jake who avoided his gaze.


    "I don''t know-"


    "Give. It. To. Me." Ricky uttered every word slowly, showing that he knew their was a stash as Jake opened the drawer.


    Ricky immediately frowned, noticing the bag that he hadn''t left here. It meant Jake had found a supplier, which pissed him off.


    "No f*cking more, I hear your like this again then I''m dragging you to Meyer''s doorstep, you understand me?" Ricky was serious, aware that while he wasn''t one to talk, his own substance abuse never led him to deeper drugs, but Jake''s fast track actually made him a little concerned.


    "I understand." Jake ducked his head, Ricky looking at him for a long time before deciding to give him the benefit of the doubt.


    "Go home Jake, take the rest of the day off." Ricky pointed at him, walking out of the room as Jake stood there for a long time.


    Only when he was sure Ricky was gone did he reach under the counter, grabbing a small vial and dabbing it on his forehand.


    ''Just a little more than I''m done, swear.'' Jake thought, but his eyes continued to delve deeper into this rabbit hole.


    Ten minutes later, Ricky stood in front of the house as Maria hurried out, a bright smile lighting up her face.


    "Hey Ricky, you ready!" Maria asked they pecked their lips together as Ricky started to car.


    "How you doing, beautiful?" Ricky asked, his usual greeting reserved specifically for Maria.


    "Amazing! But is it true that you''re taking me to Sardi''s?" Maria asked, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.


    Sardi''s was not only one of the most famous restaurants but also considered off-limits and a neutral ground for the mob.


    Vincent Sardi, the owner, had a long and respected background in Sicily that even the mafia bosses held in high regard.


    Usually it would cost an arm and a leg to get a reservation but with the help of Lucky, Ricky was actually able to get one.


    ''Connections are a hell of a drug.'' Ricky thought as he saw the completely enamored expression Maria was showing towards him.


    "Nope, we''re going to Italiano''s." Ricky said, watching as Maria''s face immediately sank, which made him crack a smile.


    "I''m just messing with you, of course we''re going to Sardi''s." Ricky laughed, pulling her into a hug which made the girl let out a sigh of relief.


    "Ricky~" Maria whined, slapping Ricky''s shoulder with a playful expression.


    Eventually, Ricky made his way to Sardi''s with Maria in his arms, tossing his keys to the valet.


    "Ah Slick, we''ve been awaiting your arrival." The server said politely as the other couples waiting shot them envious glares.


    "Please, let me escort you to your table." The server gestured, and Maria squealed in excitement as she eagerly led him forward.


    "Here you are and must I say, you are the finest couple I''ve seen today." The server needlessly flattered them as Ricky pulled out the seat for Maria and then turned to the server.


    "It won''t be an issue to have on demand service, will it." Ricky said, sneaking a hundred dollars into the server''s front pocket as his face lit up.


    "For such honored guests, that should be the standard." The server greedily flattered them, and Ricky patted his shoulder.


    In stuffy places like these, being served could often be a pain and although it wasn''t the case at the Stork Club, Ricky wasn''t the most patient person nowadays and preferred to be served as quickly as possible.


    "Oh my god!" Maria whispered in an excited tone, almost shouting, as Ricky sat down and she gazed at the centerfold of the dining establishment.


    "T-That''s Katharine Hepburn!" Maria discreetly pointed to the side, Ricky holding out his glass as the server poured the champagne.


    ''I mean, cutting back is only when I''m outside of such a fancy establishment.'' Ricky made an excuse for himself, knowing that Maria wouldn''t get made at him for one drink.


    "And?" Ricky asked, having no clue who the hell she was nor did he want to turn around for a specific one line.


    "Who cares about other girls when I get to see you?" Ricky landed the one-liner that had been on the back burner for a while now, catching Maria off guard and causing her to let out a playful scoff.


    "Ricky, I''m serious. I absolutely adored her in ''The Animal Kingdom'' and have seen it over ten times with Aunty Ninfa." Maria gushed at her absolute idol, picturing the broadway show in her mind again.


    "Do you want to meet her?" Ricky asked, already knowing the answer as Maria hesitated.


    "I-"


    "Joseph, wanna earn a quick twenty bucks?" Ricky looked over, reading his server''s name tag as the man''s face lit up at the sight of the tipping machine in front of him.


    "How may I help you sir?"


    "So I said to him, Joshy, the only one who is smelly here is you. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" The man across from Katharine told a joke that didn''t hit as she forced out a fake laugh.


    "Oh Luddy, your a real comedian-"


    "That''s exactly what Smithy says, do you think I should gear up for the front stage like you? Ah, I''m just joshing, however I do think about it sometimes, if I could be a comedian." Luddy waved his hand, circling back to his own words in contemplation as Katharine let out a disbelieving sigh before taking a sip from her glass.


    "Excuse me sir, madam, but Ricky Luciano has requested if you two would care to join his date this evening and says that he will pay for your meal." Joseph walked up to them as Katharine turned to Maria, who shyly looked away.


    Maria then shifted her gaze to Ricky, who raised his glass in acknowledgment while the timid girl tugged at his sleeve with an embarrassed blush.


    "Tell them thank you but we''re fine-" Katharine, wanting to celebrate their anniversary privately, tried to refuse, but Luddy interjected.


    "Of course we''ll go!" Luddy quickly responded on Katharine''s behalf, while Joseph gestured for them to follow as Katharine''s eyes narrowed in response.


    "Luddy, this was supposed to be our special evening-" Katharine tried to communicate with him, touching his hand but Luddy was looking at Ricky.


    "Baby, that''s Ricky Luciano, I know that a doll like you wouldn''t know but he and his father are a big deal in these parts." Luddy adjusted his collar and waved at the two, while Katharine rolled her eyes and downed the rest of her glass in one gulp.


    "Hurry up!" Luddy whispered while grabbing her arm, Katharine eventually got up to follow as they arrived at their table.


    "Good evening, I''m Ludlow but you can call me Luddy and this is my beautiful wife Katharine, say hello dear." Luddy nudged her as Katharine forced a smile and looked Ricky in the eye.


    "Hello." Katharine repeated what Luddy wanted her to say, receiving a glare from her husband. Before the tension could escalate, Ricky let out a laugh.


    "I''m Ricky Luciano however everyone calls me Slick, and that beautiful girl over there, is your absolute number one fan." Ricky deliberately embarrassed Maria, causing her to cover her face with a napkin.


    Katharine, usually stubborn, couldn''t help but chuckle at the sight of Maria''s cute expression.


    "You got a name, honey?" Katharine went to sit next to her as Maria reddened to an unfathomable degree.


    *Quiet murmur*


    Maria whispered at such a low level that both Ricky and Katharine burst out in pure laughter as Luddy also forced a laugh, not quite understanding why it was so funny.


    "Slick, it''s a pleasure to meet you and I''m honored that you''d want to host us at your table." Luddy sat next to Ricky, who had his second glass refilled by Joseph.


    ''Alright, I deserve this second one, for being a supportive boyfriend.'' Ricky convinced himself, looking at his second glass of champagne.


    "Well, my girl over there is such a diehard fan that I couldn''t pass up an opportunity to see her embarrassed. I think it''s just adorable." Ricky mused, watching with a smile as Maria buried her face deeper into her hands.


    "Ricky~" Maria whined as she couldn''t face Katharine who was patting her back.


    "You''re a real bully Slick, give the girl a break-" Katharine playfully said, trying to make a joke only for Luddy to frown.


    "Katharine!" Luddy yipped at her, causing her face to visibly contort at the rude gesture from her own husband.


    "Slick, I apologize for her-" Luddy tried to find common ground and kiss up to Ricky who outright ignored him.


    "I can''t help it, there''s something about Maria that makes me want to hear her whine-" Ricky joked while ignoring the awkward atmosphere between the two, drinking more of his champagne while looking at Maria intently.


    "Ricky, please stop~" Maria quietly said as Ricky understood and stopped while holding his hands up.


    "Anyways, thank you for indulging my offer and I''m sorry if I ruined your night." Ricky said, watching the two as Katharine stared at Luddy with a neutral expression.


    "Oh don''t worry Slick, you didn''t ruin anything since nothing was going to happen later anyways." Katharine snarked at Luddy, making his eyebrow twitched


    "Sir, is there something I can start you off with?" Joseph, hanging to the side, pulled out a notebook.


    "Give me and my lady your recommendations for an appetizer and can you bring some bread." Ricky spoke out his order, Joseph eagerly nodding his head and writing it down as if his life depended on it.


    "We''ve specially flown in mushrooms from Sicily and stuffed them with the finest breadcrumbs, herbs, and Veneto cheese you''ve ever had." Joseph gave Ricky the pitch and he shrugged, before turning to Luddy who hesitated.


    "Don''t worry it''s on me, dine to your fullest." Ricky patted Luddy''s shoulder as he nodded with a hesitant smile.


    "I''d like the same as Slick-" Luddy wanted to say only for Katharine to push in front of Joseph''s view with a shameless smile.


    "Can I get the oysters Rockefeller and the shrimp cocktails paired with a 1909 red, thank you." Katharine didn''t hesitate to order the most expensive dishes, Luddy''s face twisting in anger at his wife''s shameless attitude.


    "Can''t hate a lady that knows what she wants." Ricky joked to lighten the mood since these two were like animals, snapping at each other''s throats every three seconds.


    "You''d think so, wouldn''t you?'''' Katharine smiled cynically, setting down her menu as a vein appeared on Luddy''s forehead.


    "Very well, it will be out momentarily."


    Minutes passed, and after some persuasion from Katharine, Maria began to speak hesitantly and gradually, she grew more comfortable around the Broadway star.


    "I just don''t know if I can make it in hollywood-" Katharine confessed, sighing a bit only for Maria to grab her arm.


    "Don''t say that Katharine, you''re amazing and your stage presence is second to none!" Maria encouraged her, while Katharine looked down with a small smile.


    Luddy rolled his eyes at this topic that always popped out of his wife''s mouth every now and again, downing his fourth glass of champagne.


    "That''s a decision that requires your husband''s input-" Luddy snarked from the side, clearly annoyed at this topic.


    "I can''t think for myself?" Katharine snapped at Luddy, only making him scoff at her words.


    "You can, but the decisions are for the men, the leaders of the household." Luddy snarked back, Katharine gritting her teeth while Maria gave Ricky a look as he stopped eating his stuffed mushrooms with a sigh.


    ''Do something.'' Maria didn''t even have to say anything, but that was what her eyes implied, meaning that Ricky had to break up the cat fight, again.


    *Gulp*


    "Who wants to hear a joke?" Ricky asked with a wide smile as Maria shook her head, her expression turning pale.


    "Ricky don''t-" Maria held out her hand, knowing his jokes well and aware that most of them were dirty and funny only to him.


    "Okay, A millionaire walks into a bank in New York City and says ''I need to borrow five hundred dollars'' and the bank officer says they have security for the loan at their establishment." Ricky continued anyway, smiling wider at Maria''s embarrassed expression, already covering her face.


    "So the man hands over the keys to the guy and says ''The car is parked on the street in front of the bank''." Ricky then caught their attention, the fight slowly breaking up as he pressed his joke in between their clear disdain towards one another.


    "The bank agrees to accept as security for the loan. Then the man working at the bank gives the man a few papers and says'' Please sign here'' after that they''re done." Ricky stops himself from laughing and continues, Maria shrinking in her seat thinking there was some hidden sex joke ahead.


    "He gives him five hundred dollars and the man walks away. The bank''s president and its officer all enjoy a good life with the man that used a 25,000 car against a 500 loan." Ricky smiled, seeing he had effectively gained the complete attention of the two of Luddy and Katharine.


    "An employee of the bank then drives the car into the bank''s underground garage and parks it. Two weeks later the millionaire returns and repays the 500 dollar loan and the interest which comes to .79 cent. The loan officer says ''We are very happy to have had your business, but we are a little surprised. Why would you bother to borrow 500 since you drive this type of car?'' The man responds, "Where else in New York City can I park my car for two weeks and only pay seventy five cents?''." Ricky finishes the punchline, using a joke that wasn''t sexual to save Maria some face in front of her idol.


    "BUHAHAHAHAH!" Luddy cracked up almost immediately, and Katharine giggled at the joke, while Maria let out a relieved sigh at his more ''tame'' humor.


    "You are a riot, Slick!" Luddy flattered Ricky who ate a stuffed mushroom while Katharine nodded.


    "And here I thought you''d be another stuck up man with a broom up his ass-" Katharine laughed, the wine doing it''s damage as it made her more forward.


    "Katharine-"


    "Hahahahahaha!" Ricky laughed before Luddy could finish his reprimand, causing Luddy to retract his words upon seeing that Ricky found it amusing.


    "Don''t mind him Kathy, he''s always like that." Maria laughed nervously to Katharine but Ricky shrugged.


    "If you mean incredibly handsome, then you''re right, Maria. I am what God created, which many call art, but you can call me yours." Ricky complimented himself before twisting it into a cheesy pickup line as Maria rolled her eyes, while Katharine giggled.


    "Seriously Ricky." Maria asked, shaking her head as Ricky started touching his own nose, seeing that it didn''t extend.


    "Well, at least I''m not lying." Ricky made another joke, and this time it hit.


    The only reason Maria finally laughed was that Pinocchio was her favorite childhood story, and the air was cleared of any hostility.


    1 bottle of champagne later,


    "And here is your dish, Lobster Fra Diavolo basined in the finest truffle oil with a side of fresh caviar and a pairing of a bottle of 1867 wine, enjoy." Joseph bowed as he set down the four plates.


    Maria, Katharine, and Ricky all gazed at their food, while Luddy happily drank the last drop from the champagne bottle.


    "Whoa, this food smells real goooooooooooood~" Luddy drunkenly said as he stabbed his fork into his plate.


    "Luddy, manners-" Katharine tried to reprimand him, only for Luddy to scoff.


    "And you''re one to talk? What about those manners when you wear those short skirts on stage?" Luddy countered, stuffing his face while Ricky sighed and Maria looked a little anxious.


    "That is my job-" Katharine calmly said, her tone seething at him about bringing this topic up again in front of strangers no less.


    "What about your job as my wife? When are you going to give up on these fantasies, stop playing dress up, and be the good wife I know you can be?" Luddy seemed to plead with Katharine, who looked as if she was about to explode.


    ''We just had to invite these two to our dinner-'' Ricky inwardly clicked his tongue at his night with Maria being once again ruined.


    If he knew they were a trainwreck of a couple, then he wouldn''t have even considered it as he wanted to do something nice for Maria which seemed to backfire like it always did.


    "Slick?" A man with slicked-back hair and a toothpick in his mouth approached the table, accompanied by a fairly attractive woman on his arm.


    "No, we''re fine, thank you." Ricky raised his hand, trying to stop Luddy from stirring the pot further, while Maria attempted to help Katharine, who was struggling to keep from throwing her drink in Luddy''s face.


    "Are you serious right now?" The man asked in an Italian accent, clearly surprised that Ricky didn''t remember him.


    "It''s me, Bass." Bass pointed to himself, while Ricky glanced at Maria, who looked clueless.


    "Genovese right hand? We''ve shaken hands before." Bass tried to jog Ricky''s memory but only ended up embarrassing himself.


    "Oh, Bass." Ricky said in the most unconvincing tone, causing Luddy and Katharine to stop bickering as they became aware of the awkward atmosphere encroaching on their conversation.


    "Is this the famous Maria Profaci?" Bass tried to hide his disdain, changing the topic as he extended his hand.


    Instead of offering a handshake, however, he attempted to touch her chin, but she avoided his gesture.


    "Oh come on doll, I was only messing-" Bass, seeing the gesture went unappreciated, tried to backtrack only for a deathly atmosphere to permeate from Ricky.


    "Bass, was it?" Ricky asked, and Bass turned to him with a smile.


    "Yeah Slick, does my name finally ring a bell?" Bass joked, still annoyed at being forgotten, while his lady let out a forced chuckle.


    "You know what, it does." Ricky forced a smile of his own, Maria looking at him from the side with slight worry.


    "In fact, can I talk to you for a second, alone?" Ricky wiped his mouth as he stood up, and Bass nodded vacantly.


    "Of course, I actually wanted to come over and say congratulations about your recent escapade." Bass tried to start a conversation, leaving his companion alone while following Ricky all the way to the back alley behind the restaurant.


    "Lucky talks about you all the time-"


    *Crack*


    As they exited the restaurant and entered the back alley, Ricky seized Bass''s finger, twisting it sharply until he heard a sickening crack as he watched as Bass grimaced in pain, his face contorting with shock.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHH-" Bass screeched from the top of his lungs, falling to his knees before Ricky.


    *BAM*


    Without a word, Ricky''s fist connected with Bass''s mouth, a brutal, clean hit that sent him sprawling into a pile of grimy trash bags.


    The impact was accompanied by the sharp, metallic clink of the trash cans tipping over, and the muffled thud of Bass hitting the ground.


    "Bass, do I look like a f*cking loser who''d let a guy flirt with my girl, right in front of me?"Ricky asked Bass, clearly enraged that he would make such an advance right before his eyes.


    Bass looked on in horror, his face paling as he realized the gravity of his mistake as Ricky slowly stood over him.


    During his time being indoctrinated into the mob by Lucky, Ricky had learned many things, but the most important lesson of all was about respect.


    Respect is something that''s earned, not given.


    However, what Bass was doing was considered ''disrespect,'' which only had one consequence in the mafia: a beating.


    In the mob, you didn''t negotiate or appeal to HR and if someone stepped out of line, it was your responsibility to set them straight and if necessary, forcefully.


    "Slick listen, I didn''t-" Bass crawled backwards amidst the garbage, trying to create distance between them.


    "You didn''t mean to try and touch my girl''s cheek with those dirty fingers?" Ricky genuinely asked with a disdainful expression as he followed Bass, who was desperately trying to scramble away.


    *BAM*


    *COUGH*


    Ricky delivered a powerful kick to Bass''s stomach, the force causing a sharp crack as one of Bass''s ribs broke.


    The impact made Bass further crumple to the ground, gasping in pain while laying in the fetal position.


    Ricky was uncertain whether Genovese was orchestrating this, but given his awareness of Genovese''s stance on him, Ricky suspected that either this was a deliberate move or Genovese''s men simply lacked respect for him.


    "Did Genovese put you up to this?" Ricky prodded Bass with his foot as the man gasped for air, struggling to catch his breath.


    "N-No, I just wanted-" Bass replied instantly, and Ricky''s immediate frown made it clear that the man was telling the truth. This meant only one thing.


    "Does Genovese talk down about me in front of his other lackeys?" Ricky asked Bass, but the man fell silent.


    ''Dammit Genovese.'' Ricky honestly didn''t care that Genovese didn''t like him since there wasn''t much to like, however to preach these things to his underlings was something that couldn''t stand.


    "S-Slick, if ya hear me out-"


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    However, Ricky didn''t hear him out.


    Aggressively kicking and stomping on Bass''s body, ignoring his cries, until Bass could barely move.


    "You tell Genovese that if he wants to say something, he''ll say it to my face, got it?" Ricky bent down, his face close to Bass''s as the man lay on the ground, barely breathing.


    "GOT IT!" Ricky yelled with a trace of fury in his voice, his pupils narrowing as he loomed over Bass.


    The sheer intensity of his gaze made Bass below him start to piss himself, the realization of his dire situation sinking in.


    "YES, YES I PROMISE!" Bass squeaked out, his voice trembling as tears streamed down his face.


    Ricky let out a resigned sigh, recognizing that his actions would undoubtedly lead to complications.


    He turned on his heel and walked back into the restaurant, leaving the broken man behind him.


    "You''re pathetic Bass, I better never see your face around my girl." Ricky delivered one final, sharp jab before pushing the door shut behind him.


    As it closed, the sound echoed through the alley, leaving Bass sprawled on the ground, battered and bruised, his face contorted into a scowl of pain and humiliation.


    "Aye doll, I sent Bass on a mission, so why don''t you use this to catch a cab." Ricky handed the girl a five dollar bill and shooed her to the front of the building.


    "So Luddy, what do you do?" Maria asked, trying to get the conversation back on track.


    Ricky, who was about to dig into his meal, saw Katharine discreetly pointing towards her wrist as Ricky raised his eyebrow until he realized that there was a splash of blood on his skin.


    Quickly wiping his hands, Ricky winked at Katharine before diving into the meal he had been eagerly anticipating.


    Meanwhile, Luddy, oblivious to the scene''s tension, continued to embarrass himself with his antics.


    "Unlike a certain someone, I actually have a real job-"


    "He just runs his daddies company, then uses his daddy''s money." Katharine twirled her fork in her plate, deflating Luddy''s ego further.


    "The same money that buys you all those fancy dresses." Luddy scowled, taking another aggressive sip of his wine and started downing it right there on the spot.


    "Well, they''re really beautiful dresses, you have really good tastes." Ricky chimed in as Maria nodded her head enthusiastically.


    "Very beautiful, Katharine." Maria praised Katharine, her frown turning upside down and looking up at Ricky.


    Adjusting her hair and slinking it behind her ear, she gave Ricky a piercing stare before turning to Maria as Ricky raised a curious eyebrow.


    Another hour passed, and Luddy had completely lost himself in the trenches of a fine red wine, while Maria was having a hard time keeping her eyes open.


    "Thanks again Joseph, here''s for your dedicated help." Ricky settled the bill, leaving a generous tip for Joseph, who bowed appreciatively before them.


    "It''s always a pleasure Sir, have a great night." Joseph faltered, glancing around in confusion as Ricky draped Luddy''s arm around his shoulder for support.


    Katharine, meanwhile, helped the weary Maria toward the car, ensuring she got in comfortably.


    "Let me get Maria home since it''s almost ten and I''m not about to get into it with Profaci." Ricky informed Katharine as he settled Luddy into the front seat of the car and Katharine nodded in agreement, relieved to have Ricky handling the situation.


    Ricky eventually arrived at Maria''s house and carefully carried her out of the car, her head resting against his shoulder.


    As he made his way to the front door, Katharine and Luddy remained in the car, the awkward silence almost painful.


    "I''ve been having an affair." Luddy, barely able to keep his balance, confessed to Katharine with a slurred speech, his words spilling out between hiccups.


    Katharine shut her eyes tightly, her lips trembling as she struggled to maintain composure.


    The emotional weight of the confession and Luddy''s inebriated state clearly took a toll on her, and she fought to hold back tears while processing his words.


    "I know." Katharine felt a chill in that moment, rubbing her arms in a futile attempt to warm herself.


    "Sorry about that, let''s get you two home." Ricky adjusted his mirror as he got into the car, only to find Katharine''s gaze fixed on his reflection.


    As soon as their eyes met, she seized the moment, slipping her hands sensuously down the curves of her black dress in a provocative manner.


    Ricky was taken aback as he watched Katharine subtly slide her hand up her dress, her body beginning to sway gently from side to side.


    It might seem forward but Katharine''s actions were driven by a deep sense of loneliness and growing disdain for her husband.


    Her husband''s behavior, which had been embarrassingly public and dismissive, coupled with his blatant unfaithfulness, had left her feeling isolated and unappreciated.


    This emotional void, compounded by the dissatisfaction in her marriage, pushed her towards seeking validation and attention elsewhere.


    Ricky''s presence offered a temporary escape from her unhappy reality, and her provocative gesture was a way to assert her own desirability and reclaim some sense of control and affirmation in her life.


    Ricky paid no mind to whether Luddy was awake, his attention divided between driving and watching Katharine''s provocative display in the backseat.


    By the time they reached the couple''s home, he assisted the still-sleeping Luddy out of the car, with Katharine trailing closely behind him.


    Ricky tossed Luddy onto his bed and turned around to find that Katharine had disappeared.


    Raising an eyebrow, he stepped out into the hallway to see her leaning against the wall, her demeanor a blend of vulnerability and anticipation.


    Yet her posture was relaxed with hints of confidence, leaning casually against the wall, her gaze fixed intently on Ricky.


    Her eyes, sharp and filled with an enigmatic sparkle, seemed to pierce through the shadows, drawing him in with their magnetic intensity.


    The soft light catches her features just right, accentuating her high cheekbones and the delicate curve of her jawline.


    Her hair, styled in soft, effortless waves, frames her face and highlights the graceful elegance of her neck.


    Her back dress hugged her figure perfectly, the fabric catching the light with every subtle movement.


    The neckline, slightly daring, adds a touch of intrigue while still maintaining her classic charm to her bust.


    Her lips, slightly parted, suggest a blend of anticipation and playful curiosity that allured him forward.


    "No wonder you''re on stage, you put on one hell of a performance." Ricky approached Katharine, placing her hands on his firm shoulders.


    *DING*


    [Mission Received: Katharine Hepburn]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: A


    Description: The up and coming broadway star, Katharine is someone who shines brightly in the spotlight yet once the play ends she is left with a mediocre reality. Recently, she''s found out about her husband''s infidelity and wants to get back at him for breaking her heart.


    Objective: Don''t simply let her have one mistake, but two, as the user seeks to give her something beautiful.


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Impregnate Katharine Once:


    Rewards: 50 Gacha or Katharine skills


    Impregnate Katharine Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnate Katharine in the vicinity of her husband(Incomplete):


    Rewards: Epic Skill Coupon


    Have Katharine Climax for the first time(Incomplete):


    Reward: +3 Stamina


    Bonus Missions:


    ????????????????


    ????????????????


    ????????????????


    ????????????????


    [Do-


    ''Yes.''


    "Oh honey, you''ve never seen the kind of performance I can give." Katharine purred as Ricky''s hands trailed down her lower back, settling on her perky ass.


    "Then show me."

 Chapter 64 - 63: An Actress’s Release (R18)

    Chapter 64: Chapter 63: An Actress¡¯s Release (R18)


    Author''s Note: Messed up her name which is spelled ''Katharine'' so sorry if your comments might''ve gotten purged and the gacha is actuall 50 intead of 25 because althoguh the difficulty is easy, the character sheet is an A.


    Suddenly, Katharine''s lips crashed against Ricky''s in a way that felt almost broken, as if she were trying to erase everything she couldn''t bear to hold onto any longer.


    It wasn''t passion that guided her, nor the heat of desire, it was something far more wounded.


    A raw desperation, driven by spite and the hollow ache of wanting to forget, even if just for a fleeting second.


    She pressed her body against his, not to be close, but to feel anything other than the pain that clung to her heart.


    Katharine wanted to hurt him, hurt Luddy in the same way she was drowning in her own suffering.


    Every ounce of betrayal he''d inflicted, every careless moment that showed just how little he valued everything she had poured into their life together, gnawed at her.


    She had given him so much of herself, dedicated years of love, loyalty, and sacrifice, only for him to toss it all aside as if it meant nothing.


    The betrayal festered in her, and now, standing with Ricky, she saw him as an escape, a weapon to strike back.


    Ricky, willing to be used, didn''t care what this meant since for him, it was enough to simply exist in that moment with her.


    Sex had never meant much to Katharine in the first place since with her husband, it was a mechanical thing, a fleeting pleasure they indulged in so rarely that it had lost its meaning.


    The passion her friends gossiped about, the heat and euphoria that raved from their lips, were completely foreign to her.


    Instead, what she''d always felt was a strange, overwhelming build-up, an emptiness that only seemed to grow.


    It felt normal to her, a void she thought everyone endured.


    That is, until Ricky came into her life as he stirred something different inside her, something she had never known she could feel.


    ''Wet to the touch.''


    "Ha~" Katharine whispered into Ricky''s mouth, her voice trembling against his lips as their kiss deepened.


    Her body reacted in ways she hadn''t anticipated, a wet, pulsating pleasure rushing through her, filling the emptiness she''d carried for so long.


    Ricky''s hand moved slowly up her dress, his touch deliberate and teasing as they traced all around as if relishing in the slight twitches rippling from Katharine''s skin.


    When his fingers finally slipped inside her, a soft gasp escaped Katharine''s lips, her body quivering in response to the sensation.


    "O-Oh~" Katharine broke the kiss, her head arching upwards while her hands firmly grasped either end of Ricky''s shoulders.


    Ricky pressed Katharine firmly against the wall, his lips trailing teasing kisses along her collarbone.


    Her back arched instinctively, her body squirming as if trying to escape and lean into him all at once.


    His fingers invaded her most intimate space, moving with a deliberate slowness that both teased and tortured her.


    Every inch of her seemed to come alive under his hands, her breath quickening as she surrendered to the overwhelming sensations he stirred within her.


    Each caress sent waves of heat through her, stirring something deep inside that rippled on occasion.


    As his touch drew out her growing wetness, it coated the moment, amplifying the connection between them, a sensation that seemed to dissolve everything else around them.


    "Oh, Ricky~" Katharine slowly seeped out a moan, biting her lip and closing her eyes, unknowingly losing herself to the moment.


    Ricky gazed up at her, her figure framed like a portrait of desire, breathtaking in its beauty and intensity.


    The sight of the stunning actress, moaning his name with unbridled passion, sent a surge of energy through him, invigorating every part of his being.


    Ricky''s breath grew heavier with impatience, his need undeniable and in one swift, hurried motion, he yanked down his pants.


    As he moved closer, the heat of his body causing hers to tingle, she felt the weight of his arousal against her thigh as his meaty cock slapped against it, her eyes widening at the intensity of the moment.


    Breaking through her own haze of arousal, Katharine barely had a moment to react before Ricky thrust the full length of his cock into her.


    The sudden, intense invasion left her breathless, her mind struggling to keep up with the overwhelming sensation that flooded her senses that had never been accustomed to this feeling before.


    "HA~" Katharine''s scream erupted uncontrollably, her voice unable to hide the intoxicating grip that was threatening to overtake her mind.


    "Woah~" Ricky let out a chuckle, gritting his teeth as he felt the intense, enveloping sensation of her warmth and wetness gripping his cock.


    Maintaining his grip as he held her against the wall, Ricky''s hands, which had been firmly cupping her asscheeks, slowly slid down to her thighs.


    Seeking a firmer hold, he adjusted his stance, lifting her higher and thrusting deeply once more, his movements driven by a desperate need for control and connection.


    As Ricky settled into a rhythm, Katharine''s body thudded against the wall, her teeth clenched as she struggled to contain the overwhelming pleasure.


    Each thrust pushed her further into a state of surrender, her senses consumed by the intense, sudden burst of pleasure that made it harder for her to hold onto herself.


    "Oh god~" Katharine moaned, her voice trembling as she felt herself yield to Ricky''s size.


    Every aspect of him, from his intoxicating scent to his relentless touch, sent ripples through her mind, driving her to the brink of madness.


    Katharine''s moans and reactions only heightened Ricky''s pleasure, his cock reveling in the constant twitching of her walls as they clenched around him with a fierce, relentless tightness.


    Ricky sent another forceful thrust, deepening the sensation of her walls that relentlessly stirred up Katharine''s inner desire, creating a vicious cycle of pleasure.


    Their bodies intertwined in a frenzied state, each movement pushing the other further.


    With every reaction Katharine gave, Ricky was driven to plunge deeper into her, exploring every hidden part of her that Luddy had never reached, igniting something raw and untamed between them.


    *THUD*


    *THUD*


    *THUD*


    The wall behind Katharine echoed with a loud thud, reverberating through the room as Ricky slammed his cock into her wettening folds.


    The force of his thrusts sent the paintings on the wall rattling in their frames, shaking vigorously from their hinges.


    *Gasp*


    Without warning, Ricky''s tip suddenly brushed against her womb, sending a shockwave through Katharine''s body.


    She gasped softly, her fingernails digging into his back, but instead of pulling away, she pressed herself closer.


    Her lips found his neck, planting soft, needy kisses, craving even more of the connection consuming them both.


    Her insides stretched painfully, but the sensation only fueled her desire, urging Ricky to take her harder.


    Ricky responded, increasing his pace, their bodies colliding with such intensity that the pictures on the walls began to fall onto the floor.


    With each thrust, the tension inside her swelled, her pulse racing as Katharine experienced, for the first time, the overwhelming pleasure of being completely entwined with another.


    "Ah~" Katharine let out a soft moan, surprising herself as her body instinctively loosened to accommodate Ricky''s member.


    What once felt one-sided shifted as Ricky finally made her body fully respond to his, her moans, at times hollow, now a clear sign of the desire building within her, which in turn fueled his own.


    Interlocking with his movements, Katharine wrapped herself around him, their rhythm growing more frenzied, each thrust pushing them both closer to the edge.


    "Ah~"


    "AH~"


    "Ha~"


    "HA~"


    Katharine''s sultry moans slowly devolved into ragged gasps, her nails instinctively digging into Ricky''s back as she tried to anchor herself against the waves of pleasure surging through her and overwhelming her senses.


    "I-this-what-" Katharine breathlessly stammered, struggling to find the words, her confusion evident as the sensations left her at a loss.


    Katharine''s mind was a whirlwind of sensations; the heat of his body, the pressure of his cock stretching her, the delicious friction that ignited every nerve ending in her body.


    She could feel herself teetering on the edge, the intensity of their union overwhelming her senses as the build up within her was slowly being chipped away with every thrust of Ricky.


    With a sudden act, Ricky captured her lips once more, their kiss a desperate clash of tongues and teeth.


    He could feel Katharine''s body shuddering against his, her walls tightening around him in a vice-like grip.


    It was slowly starting to be too much for Katharine; the pleasure was too intense, too consuming, pushing her to the brink as he himself approached his limit.


    Then as she neared the peak of her desire, her demeanor shifted dramatically, finally embracing the raw freedom of lust.


    Breaking the kiss, she pulled away from Ricky, her body trembling as she fully embraced the cascading waves of pleasure, allowing herself to be consumed by the sensation as Ricky continued to thrust into her.


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    What was once a well-mannered expression transformed into cries of ecstasy as Katharine''s moans grew louder and more fervent, her pleasure intensifying with Ricky''s increasingly urgent thrusts.


    *SLAP*


    *SLAP*


    Their waists collided with deafening slaps, the sound echoing with each thrust, growing more intense with every movement.


    The hallway was entirely filled with the sounds of their passion, the slap of skin against skin, the gasps, and groans of their shared desire.


    The pictures on the walls had all rattled off their hinges with the force of their movements, but neither of them noticed or cared.


    Focusing solely on each other, they felt the intensity as Ricky''s hips slammed into Katharine with a frenzied rhythm, her moans escalating into cries of satisfaction.


    His cock pounded into her with relentless force, causing the towering build-up that had always loomed over her to shatter violently.


    The build-up, which had long haunted her sexual life, suddenly gave way to a beautiful, blooming moment as it erupted.


    Feeling it firsthand, Katharine closed her eyes and let out a loud roar of release, her pleasure reaching its peak.


    "YES RICKY, YES~" Katharine laughed and wailed in Ricky''s hold, feeling the first inkling of a climax while banging her head against the wall behind her.


    However, she wasn''t alone in her pursuit of sexual release; Ricky, gritting his teeth, matched her intensity with his own fervor.


    With one final thrust, Ricky pressed his entire body into Katharine, driving deep into her as his cock reached her limits and began to twitch violently.


    Swirling and filling her to the brim, the violent pulsating heat only intensified the fire within Katharine.


    As she tried to regain her composure from what she assumed was her climax, she was hit by a second wave of pleasure that completely overwhelmed the initial sensation.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Katharine shrieked in ecstasy, the remaining build-up incinerated by the heat of Ricky''s cum.


    She all but surrendered completely to the flooding sensation that surged through her, culminating in her first orgasm.


    The sensation was seismic for Katharine, causing her to convulse in Ricky''s embrace as the overwhelming pleasure washed over her and enveloped her completely.


    They clung to each other, their bodies trembling and spent as the aftershocks of pleasure rippled through Katharine, her breath coming in short, shallow bursts.


    She buried her face in Ricky''s neck, savoring the warmth and solidity of him and for a moment, they simply existed in the aftermath, the world outside their intimate bubble forgotten.


    Katharine could feel the steady thrum of Ricky''s heartbeat against her chest, a comforting reminder of their connection.


    Slowly, as their breathing returned to normal, Ricky loosened his grip on her thighs, allowing her to slide down the wall and stand on shaky legs.


    He kept his arms around her, holding her close, as if afraid she might disappear if he let go and Katharine looked up at him, her eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and lingering desire.


    For the first time, she felt truly seen, truly desired and it was an intoxicating feeling, one she never wanted to let go of.


    Just when Katharine thought it was all over, feeling Ricky''s cock slowly withdrawing from her newly awakened pussy, she found herself staring at the wall she had been pinned against only moments ago.


    "What, did you think it was over?" Ricky whispered in her ears, ramming his cock back into her pussy as her perky ass jiggled against the force of his hips.


    "AH~" Katharine moaned, instinctively placing her hands against the wall to steady herself as Ricky grasped her from behind.


    Ricky cupped her breasts in his hands, gently squeezing and caressing them with a sensual grace, savoring their softness and perkiness.


    "Ha~" Katharine let out a steamy gasp, feeling the teasing of her nipples while his cock slowly continued the ravaging of her pussy.


    Swaying his hips against hers, Ricky felt Katharine melt under his continuous touch, her body responding to the intense pleasure.


    The immense wetness of her pussy clung to his cock, wrapping it in its slick embrace, as if reluctant to let go.


    "F*cking hell Katharine, you feel so good." Ricky whispered with a sleazy smile, watching her shiver in delight at his approval.


    Her moans intensified once more, her body eagerly responding to his every move as she began meeting his thrusts halfway.


    Ricky enjoyed himself, his hands roaming her body, tracing her curves, as he plunged into her from behind with measured, deliberate thrusts.


    Each movement was designed to maximize her pleasure, bringing her to the brink and holding her there, allowing Ricky to watch her revel in the sensation of his cock which pushed him further into his own desire.


    Just as Katharine thought she was about to reach that serene, climactic moment once more, Ricky would deliberately slow his movements.


    At first, Katharine didn''t notice, but soon she realized that every time she neared the brink of another climax, he would ease his pace, leaving her teetering on the edge of ecstasy.


    "R-Ricky~" Katharine gasped, her voice a mix of desperation and frustration.


    Her body trembled with the need for release, her nails scraping lightly against the wall in a futile attempt to steady herself for the pleasure that never came.


    Ricky chuckled softly, his breath hot against her ear though didn''t say anything until she looked as if she was about to cry.


    "What do you want?" Ricky''s voice dripped with amusement and desire as a sleazy smile teased across his face, feeling turned on by her desperate expression.


    However, Katharine was stubborn, her pride unwilling to admit something so vulnerable as begging for the sweet release that had left her spiraling moments ago.


    So Ricky resumed his slow, torturous rhythm, his cock sliding in and out of her slick heat in such a manner that she couldn''t properly register it.


    Each stroke was deliberate, a careful blend of pleasure and tease as Katharine''s body writhed beneath his touch, her hips instinctively pushing back against him, seeking the release he so expertly denied her.


    She could feel the tension building again, coiling tightly in her core as her breath came in ragged pants, her entire being consumed by the overwhelming sensations Ricky was evoking.


    "Please, Ricky," Katharine begged, her voice raw with need, unable to bear it any longer.


    "Don''t stop, I need you." Katharine gazed back, her pride fracturing in the moment as Ricky pulled her into a tender kiss.


    Just when she thought she couldn''t endure any more, Ricky''s pace quickened, his thrusts growing harder and deeper.


    With renewed urgency, Katharine let her moans grow louder, breaking the kiss as her body became a live wire of sensation, the pleasure surging through her once more.


    Finally, Ricky relented, his own need matching hers as he thrusted into her with a relentless intensity, his hands gripping her hips with bruising force.


    His finger clasped around her thin waist, slamming it down into his meaty cock, her pussy squealing as it slathered his being in a thin coat of nectar.


    That very same nectar seemed to drip down her meaty thighs which continuously rippled in place, clapping at the impact of Ricky''s cock continuously plummeting into her being.


    Biting her lip, Katharine''s body felt like a rag doll in the heat of the moment, her eyes darting wildly.


    The only thing anchoring her was the wall in front of her, marked with nail scratches and streaks of wallpaper from her frantic grip as the ensuing feeling started to ravage her once more.


    "HA~" Katharine''s cries reached a fever pitch, her entire body tensing as she was driven to the edge, the overwhelming pleasure pushing her to the brink of release.


    With a final, powerful thrust, Ricky drove Katharine into another intense climax, her body convulsing and spiraling with overwhelming pleasure.


    His cock pressed deep inside her, pushing against her womb that was still filled with his milky cum as she clamped down on him, sending a wave of pleasure through them both.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH~" Katharine screamed, her body convulsing in pleasure as wave after wave of ecstasy crashed over her, each surge of sensation pushing her further into a state of rapturous release.


    Her pussy clamped down around his cock, milking him as she rode out her orgasm.


    Moments later, Ricky''s release followed, a guttural moan escaping his lips as he buried himself deep inside her, filling her with his seed.


    Her womb pooled with Ricky''s cum, filling her completely as every inch of her seemed to be consumed by his scorching essence.


    They remained locked together, their bodies trembling from the shared intensity of their release.


    As the waves of pleasure slowly subsided, Ricky gently pulled out while Katharine slowly crumpled down the wall.


    [Mission Received: Katharine Hepburn]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: A


    Description: The up and coming broadway star, Katharine is someone who shines brightly in the spotlight yet once the play ends she is left with a mediocre reality. Recently, she''s found out about her husband''s infidelity and wants to get back at him for breaking her heart.


    Objective: Don''t simply let her have one mistake, but two, as the user seeks to give her something beautiful.


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Impregnate Katharine Once:


    Rewards: 50 Gacha or Katharine skills


    Impregnate Katharine Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnate Katharine in the vicinity of her husband(Complete):


    Rewards: Epic Skill Coupon


    Have Katharine Climax for the first time(Complete):


    Reward: +3 Stamina


    Bonus Missions:


    Knock Katharine up in Luddy''s childhood home(Complete)


    Reward: +3 Vitality


    ????????????????


    ????????????????


    ????????????????


    Gazing at his work, Katharine slumped against the wall, panting heavily as Ricky smiled, taking a mental picture of the sight before him.


    Honestly, he didn''t recognize her at first as his past life was a blur, often obscured by constant highs and drunken states.


    But as the haze began to lift, he finally remembered who she was and among the fragments of his past he had tried to bury, a movie he used to watch growing up resurfaced, featuring her as the star.


    ''To think she starred in Little Woman.'' Ricky thought, pulling up his zipper as he walked back to his car.


    Anticipating the inevitable pain and as he got in, a wave of agony washed over him, but he refused to vocalize it.


    He had mentally prepared himself for this moment, and although the searing pain wracked his body, he let out only a ragged breath, determined to stay silent.


    ''Dammit f*ck, screw it.'' Ricky had once considered acquiring the skills of the actress, but he realized that power was what he craved more than the ability to act.


    As a result, he was inclined to take risks with gacha, hoping to gain the power he sought through the sheer luck of it.


    Ricky had also begun experimenting with gacha, carefully hoarding his gacha coupons rather than spending them whenever he received them.


    He was curious if using a larger number of coupons at once would yield greater benefits or more significant results.


    ''Choose gacha and open system rewards.''


    *Ding*


    Received:


    50 gacha coupons


    (Epic Skill) Intuitive Aptitude: Gains an instant understanding of how objects work, allowing for quick problem-solving and repairs, but without creating or controlling technology.


    *DIng*


    [Skill is reacting with-]


    ''Yerp.''


    (Legendary Skill) Intuitive Mechanical Mastery: The user possesses a heightened ability to visually perceive how an object words, allowing for quick problem-solving especially with "mechanical energy" in action, enabling them to instantly understand the inner workings of various mechanical systems. This intuitive insight extends beyond mere observation, facilitating swift and accurate problem-solving and repairs without the need for formal knowledge or training. However, it''s important to note that this skill does not grant the user the ability to create or control technology; rather, it enhances their understanding and troubleshooting prowess in the realm of mechanical systems.


    Ricky''s face contorted as the familiar itch, which had always lingered at the back of his mind, suddenly spread across his thoughts.


    The sight of the previous car that had irritated him made his grip on the steering wheel tighten.


    ''God dammit.''


    3 hours later,


    *BAM*


    Lucky''s eyes snapped open as he scanned the room, his hand instinctively moving to grasp the gun at his side.


    He rarely used the weapon himself, reserving it for special occasions, but he always kept it within reach.


    Taking his cane, he descended the stairs, following the sounds emanating from the garage.


    As he opened the door, he was greeted by the sight of Ricky surrounded by the scattered remains of his once-pristine Ford.


    "Slick?" Lucky rubbed his eyes, trying to clear the haze, and then saw his son covered in grease and black splotches, indicating oil.


    "Hey pops." Ricky waved while keeping his eyes fixed on the part in front of him, focusing intently as he began to screw something into place.


    "..." Lucky''s expression shifted to one of confusion as he took in the scene, his gaze moving over the entire engine, now laid out in disarray.


    "Do I want to know?" Lucky, too exhausted to tackle whatever Ricky had gotten himself into, decided to address the situation directly.


    "It''s just this itch I have whenever I drive this bucket of sh*t and before, I could manage it, but now it''s driving me crazy. I know it''s something in this crappy engine, and I can''t ignore it anymore." Ricky explained, his voice tinged with frustration, sounding absolutely insane to anyone who didn''t understand the context, meaning Lucky.


    What was once an extraordinary skill had evolved into a nearly unbearable burden.


    As a legendary ability, it provided insight into mechanical intricacies with an almost painful intensity.


    Rather than a blessing, it felt more like a curse as he couldn''t turn it off, as it was intuitive, granting him understanding and knowledge without the need for evidence or reasoning.


    "Did you-whatever, I need you to come down and unveil the product you have since I''ve sorted everything out with Genovese." Lucky sat down on a nearby stool, his expression one of deep disheartenment as he watched Ricky wrestle with the engine and pondered the oddities of his son''s latest obsession.


    "Is it bad?" Ricky asked, knowing that Lucky had been postponing the delivery of the product while he investigated whether Genovese was an informant.


    Although the evidence was essentially obvious, Lucky felt compelled to give Genovese the benefit of the doubt.


    He had asked Ricky to keep it a secret until he could confirm it himself and now that he had done so, the revelation had only served to deepen his heartbreak.


    "Yes, it''s bad." Lucky leaned back as Ricky clicked his tongue, setting the part aside before picking up another one.


    "Ungrateful bastard." Ricky muttered to himself with disdain for Genovese, reflecting on all that Lucky had done for him.


    Despite propelling Genovese to underboss and showing him kindness, Genovese had repaid him with betrayal.


    Even Ricky, the king of scumbags, would never betray Lucky after all he had done, first as a mentor and then as a steadfast father figure.


    "Slick, it ain''t that bad. From what I''ve been able to dig up it might just be the fella''s under him and-"


    "Pops." Ricky paused his work and looked up, noticing the internal turmoil etched on Lucky''s face.


    "Although I want to put a cap in that bastard right now, I trust you to make the right decision. You''re the boss, after all. But don''t let the future of the Luciano family, our family, be destroyed because of a man you thought was your brother." Ricky wanted to call Lucky stupid, but as he listened, he began to understand.


    When Lucky first showed hesitation, Ricky struggled to understand his stance and it wasn''t until he related the situation to Jake instead of Genovese that he began to grasp the depth of Lucky''s conflict.


    Lucky was many things, but Ricky knew how much family meant to him, even if he often spoke against it.


    They both understood what had to be done, but carrying it out wasn''t easy.


    In Ricky''s personal view, he would ultimately follow through in Lucky''s shoes, but he would struggle with the decision, just as Lucky was now, especially if it involved someone like Jake.


    But at the end of the day, they were mobsters, and sometimes, for the betterment of the family, difficult decisions had to be made, regardless of personal struggles.


    And they both knew what needed to be done.


    "Good night, Slick." Lucky stood up, leaving Ricky amidst his jumble of car parts.


    "Good night."

 Chapter 65 - 64: Revelation After Revelation

    Chapter 65: Chapter 64: Revelation After Revelation


    Next Morning,


    *BAM*


    "LUCKY, WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS!" Genovese burst through the door, kicking it wide open, disrupting the easy flow of conversation between Lucky and Ricky in the early morning.


    Both men turned sharply, their pleasant exchange replaced with wary tension as they locked eyes with Genovese.


    "What''s the meaning of you kicking in my f*cking door? Last I checked, you weren''t a damn barbarian." Lucky said, his voice calm but laced with a sharp edge as he gestured to the shattered hinges.


    Genovese flinched at the remark but quickly regained his composure, straightening himself as if the momentary lapse hadn''t happened.


    "Lucky, did you not hear? Slick beat up my right, MY RIGHT!" Genovese''s voice cracked with fury as he shot a venomous glare at Ricky, his anger spilling into the room.


    Ricky blinked, just as confused as before, his brow furrowing as he tried to make sense of the accusation.


    "Who?" Ricky genuinely wondered out loud, trying to recall who was Genovese''s right hand man.


    "Bass." Lucky promptly informed Ricky, still at a loss until a light bulb flickered above his head.


    "Ohhhhhhhhhhh," Ricky drawled, the sound stretching as the memory of the man he''d beaten to a bloody pulp in the back alley yesterday began to resurface as his expression shifted, slowly piecing together the situation.


    "Well, he tried to touch my girl and that couldn''t fly." Ricky didn''t even give Genovese''s face, promptly shrugging the act off entirely while leaning back in his chair without remorse for his actions.


    "Was it Maria?" Lucky''s eyebrow twitched, acutely aware that any action involving the Long Island Princess was a delicate matter.


    However, as he caught Ricky''s subtle nod of affirmation, Lucky leaned back in his chair, his expression cooling, as if already calculating his next move.


    "Slick was in the right-"


    "ARE YOU KIDDING ME NOW-"


    "Do not interrupt me." Lucky''s cold tone cut through the air, interrupting Genovese tirade as the burly man had realized that he had crossed the line that was Lucky''s patience.


    "You know the rules." Lucky said, his tone cold and unyielding, gazing at him as if he was a piece of meat on the chopping block.


    "You should''ve known my boy would''ve handled Bass that way if he stepped out of line. Now get out." Lucky''s voice sent a shiver down Genovese''s spine, its chilling edge serating his spine which made him instinctively lower his posture.


    Realizing he''d either crossed a line or that Lucky was simply in a foul mood, Genovese decided it was best not to stick around to find out as he quickly made his exit, not daring to linger.


    "Damn." Lucky''s voice choked as the cold air seemed to disperse around him, his heart breaking in two.


    "You need a minute or-" Ricky, seeing how Genovese''s mere presence unnerved him, gave out his courtesy remark.


    "Shut up." Lucky gave him the bird, scoffing at Ricky seemingly pulling out a tissue from nowhere.


    "Ohohoho, looks who''s letting his emotions-"


    *Cough*


    Lucky shot a harsh glare at Ricky, who, caught off guard, choked on his words and struggled to stifle a laugh.


    "Just get your ass out there and try not to be a condescending asshole when you unveil the product."


    5 minutes later,


    "THEY SAID IT COULDN''T BE DONE, BUT THEN I WENT OUT THERE AND DELIVERED!" Ricky roared with triumphant gestures as the Luciano family, assembled for their meeting, were stunned by the sudden reveal of two million dollars'' worth of weed placed neatly on a large table.


    They towered all the way to the ceiling, stacked in a pyramid as if sculpted from green gold.


    *Sigh*


    Lucky sighed from the side, clearly unimpressed, while Meyer erupted into hysterical laughter, utterly content with seeing their losses replenished.


    Frank, meanwhile, applauded with a broad smile, clearly pleased with Ricky''s display and relieved to see that everything was going well.


    "That kid''s hubris is gonna get him capped one day." Lucky muttered with an aggrieved sigh, while Meyer nodded in agreement, though the wry smile on his face contradicted it.


    "I mean, you''ve got to give it to him." Meyer said, trying to defend Ricky, playing the devil''s advocate for the group.


    "The kid did something no one else could''ve done and then topped it ten times over." Meyer played along with the celebrating atmosphere, only for Frank''s face to finally break first.


    Frank didn''t want to be the one to bring it up, but with everything going on, he couldn''t stay silent any longer.


    He needed to know the truth, he needed to know whether Genovese was a rat.


    "Lucky be honest with us, is it really true that Genovese is selling the family out?" Frank couldn''t hold back any longer and after turning and seeing Genovese glaring at Ricky with disdain, he finally asked Lucky in a low whisper


    "C''mon Franky, he was just joshing us last night, Genovese is a lot of things but he isn''t a snitch, right Lucky?" Meyer responded, though his words trailed off as he glanced at Lucky.


    In that moment, Lucky''s eyes held more emotion than they had ever seen before, a rare crack in his usually stoic demeanor.


    No one could ever truly understand how much Lucky valued Genovese, not just as his underboss, but as his closest friend.


    Growing up on the streets after emigrating to America with nothing but three nickels, Lucky had lived a hard life.


    With his family dead in Sicily, he had nothing but the cruel memories he was left with.


    Every day was a battle for survival, often ending in a fight just for even a scrap of bread.


    One day, he saw a scrawny kid getting beat up in an alley and without hesitation, Lucky jumped in, beating off the hooligans.


    But it didn''t take long before he was knocked to the ground himself and as one of the attackers pulled out a knife, Genovese returned the favor by smashing a brick over the kid''s head, saving Lucky''s life.


    From that day forward, they ran the streets together, inseparable, until Genovese left for Sicily.


    When he returned, Lucky hadn''t forgotten their bond and immediately set him up as his right-hand man.


    Their friendship, forged in blood and loyalty, was something few could ever hope to understand.


    "We''ll have to see." Lucky tightened his grip on his cane, his knuckles whitening as he gave Genovese a cold, unflinching gaze.


    "SLICK!"


    "SLICK!"


    "SLICK!"


    "SLICK!"


    The Luciano family erupted into cheers, their voices filling the room as they turned to the young man who had just pulled them from the financial pit Dewey had so meticulously crafted.


    Ricky stood at the center of it all, the unlikely savior of their fortunes, basking in the sudden wave of admiration.


    ''At least something good came out of all of this.'' Lucky allowed himself a brief smile as he watched the family chant Ricky''s name, the young man holding up his arms in triumph.


    But as the moment passed, Lucky''s face grew cold once more, his mind already shifting back to the weight of their world.


    "Meyer, Frank, get the warehouse ready." Lucky made his decision, his gaze hardening with a resolution clear in his mind..


    Meyer and Frank, sensing the shift, exchanged a silent glance as they understood without a word being spoken.


    "And get me that Bass fella Slick beat into oblivion."


    "Yes boss."


    1 hour later,


    "Lucky, you need to explain what the f*ck is going on with you!" Genovese kicked the door open and strode into the dimly lit warehouse where Lucky had asked to meet him.


    He knew this place well and how it was reserved for secret meetings, the kind where only trusted men were invited.


    Yet, the thought that this might be his own secret execution never crossed his mind as he walked in, unaware of the storm brewing within these familiar walls.


    "LUCKY-"


    Genovese screamed as a harsh light suddenly flickered on in the center of the warehouse, illuminating Lucky''s figure.


    The sudden reveal made Genovese flinch in surprise, his heart racing as the room filled with an uneasy tension.


    "Sit." Lucky gestured silently toward Genovese, who frowned but stomped over to the seat, his frustration evident.


    "Lucky, what was that sh*t about earlier, huh?" Genovese pointed at Lucky, his expression sharp with accusation, but Lucky remained unfazed, his eyes steady and unreadable.


    The silence between them grew heavier, the weight of unspoken words pressing down, but still, Lucky refused to respond.


    "I''m supposed to be your number two." Genovese finally blurted out, his frustration bubbling over, escalating with every word uttered from his mouth.


    "But it feels like I''m just a placeholder for that little sh*t." Genovese''s voice trembled with anger and hurt, unable to mask his growing resentment at being consistently overlooked.


    "On top of that, you only gave me this position because the Jew and that Calabrian couldn''t take it!" Genovese shouted, his voice cracking with genuine hurt.


    It wasn''t just the position that stung, but the knowledge that Lucky had overlooked him twice before finally offering it.


    The pain of being seen as second choice fueled his anger even further, especially now that he was in the position but still overshadowed by Ricky.


    Lucky remained silent, allowing Genovese to seize the moment and pour out all his grievances.


    As Genovese vented his frustrations, Lucky listened, giving Genovese the space to finally express everything he had kept bottled up.


    "And that kid of yours." Genovese continued, his voice rising with a clear resentment.


    "He might be Sicilian, but he ain''t a leader and he definitely doesn''t have what it takes to run this family!" Genovese''s frustration was palpable as he watched Lucky groom Ricky to be the next leader, a move that felt like a betrayal to the traditional order of the mob scene.


    "Are you saying you would do better, are you saying you could lead this family?" Lucky finally broke the silence, his voice cold and measured as Genovese bit his lip, then closed his eyes, bracing himself for whatever was to come next.


    "Yes Lucky, I think-"


    *Bam*


    Lucky slammed a packet onto the table, his hand tapping it once before he slowly slid it across to Genovese.


    As Genovese opened it, his eyes widened in shock at the contents, unable to conceal his surprise.


    "Is that why you tried to go behind my back and undermine the family through cowardly means?" Lucky asked, his voice tinged with pain as his hurt expression overtook his face.


    Genovese''s pupils shook violently, his shock clear as he processed Lucky''s accusation.


    Even now, Lucky didn''t yell or scream as he continued to gaze at Genovese with a heartbroken expression, his eyes reflecting a deep sense of betrayal and sorrow.


    In another world, in another reality, Genovese might have taken over the Luciano family after Dewey uncovered the evidence to imprison Lucky.


    But with Ricky''s unexpected rise, a ripple was set in motion that would forever alter the course of their world.


    "W-What is this?" Genovese''s voice trembled, asking in an incredulous tone.


    Gazing down at the picture, Genovese saw his own men, those he had trusted with his life, conspiring with Dewey, his subordinates, and his own right hand Bass.


    The sight was a crushing blow, revealing the depths of the betrayal he faced when gazing at this picture for the first time.


    "What does it look like, Genovese?" Ricky spoke from the side as the lights in the warehouse flickered on, casting a stark illumination over the scene and revealing the gravity of the moment.


    On each door, positioned at opposite sides of the warehouse, stood Meyer and Frank, their faces reflecting hurt and disappointment.


    Meanwhile, Ricky stood a short distance from the table, next to a bound and helpless Bass..


    "Bass-" Genovese stood up, his heart sinking into his chest upon seeing his right in such a bound and beaten state.


    "I''m sorry, boss." Bass confessed as soon as Ricky ripped off the tape from his mouth, his words tumbling out in a frantic apology.


    "What did you do!" Genovese yelled in anguish, his voice echoing through the warehouse and Ricky''s eyes widened in shock as Bass, overwhelmed by the situation, began to cry uncontrollably.


    "It should''ve been you boss, it should''ve been you that was next in line!" Bass yelled in desperation, his voice cracking with fear, as Genovese''s face twisted into an expression of disbelief.


    "DAMMIT GENOVESE, STOP LYING TO ME!" Lucky finally lost his cool, his anger reaching a breaking point.


    Unable to contain his rage at Genovese''s continued denial, he hurled the table aside with a violent shove.


    Genovese looked back in shock, his face a mix of fear and confusion as the table crashed to the ground.


    "Lucky, I''d never betray you-" Genovese immediately pleaded with Lucky, desperation evident in his voice as he gazed at his closest friend in this world.


    "LIE TO ME ONE MORE TIME AND I SWEAR, I SWEAR GENOVESE!" Lucky roared, his voice filled with fury as he pulled out his revolver, his hand trembling as his heart screamed at him to stop.


    All the while on the side, a sudden conundrum shattered what had seemed like a black-and-white situation.


    Ricky, observing the unfolding drama, realized with growing clarity that Genovese was telling the truth.


    The pieces clicked into place, and Ricky understood that Genovese''s own men might have acted on their own, without his knowledge.


    Ricky was left to grapple with the harsh truth: Genovese was never a rat and he hadn''t betrayed Lucky, and in fact, was innocent.


    In truth, Genovese never liked Ricky but that didn''t mean he wanted him killed.


    To him, the boy was reckless, self-destructive, and the glaring blind spot in Lucky''s otherwise sharp judgment.


    It felt as if Genovese alone saw Ricky for what he truly was: a cancer eating away at the foundation of their organization.


    The plan to send Ricky to Mexico wasn''t about setting him up for failure, it didn''t need to be.


    Genovese had complete confidence that Ricky would fail on his own and when he did, Lucky would finally be forced to see what Genovese had known all along: Ricky was never worth grooming for anything more than his inevitable downfall.


    "Lucky w-wait, Genovese didn''t-" Bass desperately tried to clear his name, but Ricky suddenly placed a hand over his mouth, silencing him.


    Bass shook his head, his eyes pleading with Ricky for understanding, seemingly begging him to let him set this situation straight.


    But in that crucial moment, Ricky made the brutal decision to cover it up, his resolve hardening when looking upon Genovese pleading with Lucky.


    Ricky knew that eventually, he and Genovese would have to compete if he wanted to become the head of the family, it was inevitable.


    However, Ricky was reluctant to deal with the complications that such a power struggle would bring.


    Although it was against Mafia standards and considered immoral, he preferred to remove Genovese from the equation now rather than face the turmoil later.


    "LUCKY, I WOULD NEVER BETRAY-"


    *BANG*


    "AHHHHHHHHHHH!" Genovese screamed as Lucky fired the revolver, the shot piercing his knee.


    The impact of the bullet was sharp and unforgiving, and Lucky''s hand remained steady, betraying no sign of the recoil or emotional turmoil he felt inside.


    The bullet tore through the muscle and cartilage in Genovese''s knee, causing him to collapse to the ground in agony.


    The sudden loss of support left him writhing in pain, unable to maintain his balance.


    "YOU WERE MY BROTHER GENOVESE, I TRUSTED YOU!" Lucky yelled out in immense grief, his voice breaking as his eyes began to water.


    ''A boss can only ask what he himself would do.''


    These were the words his father had always told him: that it was his duty to clean up the messes he''d made.


    Lucky felt the full weight of his father''s wisdom and he knew that despite the pain and guilt, it was his responsibility to resolve the situation and restore order.


    "LUCKY PLEASE-"


    "TELL ME THE TRUTH, I WANNA HEAR IT FROM YOUR DIRTY MOUTH THAT YOU BETRAYED ME, SAY IT!" Lucky screamed, his voice echoing with fury as he pressed the barrel of the revolver against Genovese''s head.


    Genovese closed his eyes, accepting the harsh reality and knowing there was no escaping the consequences, and although he was innocent of the betrayal, he felt the weight of blame for his role in the unfolding events.


    His constant complaints about Ricky and Lucky had inadvertently pushed his men into actions he never intended.


    At that moment, Genovese resolved that if he was to leave this world, he would do so in a way that would at least make Lucky''s life a bit easier.


    As his friend.


    "I betrayed you." Genovese managed a small, defiant smile as he lied, his eyes closing in resignation and Ricky stood by, fully aware of the truth but choosing to remain silent.


    *Sniff*


    "I loved you like a brother Genovese, I''d take a bullet for you." Lucky struggled with his emotions, the gun trembling violently in his hand as a single tear streamed down his cheek.


    "We grew up together, we broke bread together, and when you came back from Sicily after being chased out, I welcomed you in with open arms," Lucky heaved, his voice thick with sadness as he looked at the man who had stood by him through thick and thin.


    Discourse and soured relationships were inevitable within the family, but at its core, it was an immovable object.


    Yet in Lucky''s eyes, Genovese had shattered that core, breaking the very foundation of trust and more painfully, he had broken Lucky''s heart.


    "I know, and I betrayed you." Genovese lowered his head, accepting his fate as Lucky exhaled heavily, glancing over at Ricky.


    Lucky''s eyes searched Ricky''s for that final confirmation, knowing that Ricky had the ability to discern truth from lies.


    Lucky''s eyes pleaded for a reason to stop, a last shred of hope to avoid the inevitable.


    Yet Ricky saw an opportunity to seize the power within the family, the very power Lucky had hoped to bestow upon him.


    For the first time, Ricky chose to deceive his old man as he nodded, and Lucky, trusting in Ricky''s abilities, felt his entire world collapse.


    Believing wholeheartedly in Ricky''s judgment, he turned back to Genovese, the gravity of the situation settling heavily on him.


    *Click*


    *Sniff*


    "Any last words Genovese?" Lucky clicked the revolver, the sound echoing ominously in the tense silence.


    Genovese remained quiet, his head bowed and his expression resigned as the weight of the moment hung heavily between them.


    "I know I betrayed your trust, but can you put ''A loving friend'' on my gravestone?" Genovese asked boldly, wanting people to remember him as a good friend rather than a dirty rat.


    As Lucky heard the request, memories of their shared past, both the good and the bad, flooded his mind.


    "Yeah, I will."


    "Thanks Lucky, take care." Genovese chuckled, a sad, knowing smile on his lips as he prepared himself for what was to come.


    He had already accepted that Lucky would honor his request, even in the face of the betrayal that had brought them to this point.


    "Goodbye Genovese."


    *BANG*


    *Thump*


    Genovese''s brains splattered across the pavement as his lifeless body collapsed onto the ground.


    Lucky let out a deep breath, holding the revolver where the smoke trailed from the barrel.


    He holstered the weapon back into his jacket and stood there, his face gradually hardening into an expression devoid of all emotion.


    "Slick, issue the order." Lucky spoke coldly, his heels clicking sharply against the floor as he walked toward the door where Frank stood.


    Ricky nodded in response, though Lucky didn''t need to glance back as he continued walking, bypassing the waiting car and heading down the street with a grim determination.


    "W-What are you going to do?" Bass asked, his voice trembling, once Ricky let go of his mouth.


    A construct materializing above Bass, resembling a guillotine, though only Ricky could see its manifestation as it hovered over him ominously.


    "Well, when a part of the body has rotted and threatens to spread its decay, what would you do?" Ricky asked, and as he did, Bass''s eyes widened in shock, his vision seemingly turning upside down.


    A look of disbelief was frozen on his face as he gazed at his own body slumped on the ground, the last flicker of life fading from his eyes as he looked upon his decapitated form.


    "You cut it off." Ricky coldly chuckled as he walked toward the other door where Frank was stationed.


    Meyer and Frank followed him, and they re-entered the building where all the higher-ups, except those under Genovese, were gathered.


    In the headquarters, the higher-ranking members gathered around the large table, their faces etched with confusion and unease.


    Their unspoken questions were swiftly answered when Ricky abruptly tossed the photos onto the table.


    Spread out before them were images of the traitors, their faces unmistakable as they stood beside Dewey and other government officials as the room grew tense as the damning evidence told the story without a single word needed.


    The air was thick with a mixture of shock, betrayal, and apprehension and the conversations were hushed, and the room was filled with the low murmur of uneasy speculation.


    The betrayal had hit hard, and the absence of Lucky, a figure of authority and respect, only intensified the uncertainty.


    As the room fell into a tense silence, all eyes turned to Ricky as his presence had become more prominent in Lucky''s absence, and the higher-ups looked to him for guidance.


    Ricky''s demeanor was calm and composed, a stark contrast to the turmoil around him and the weight of leadership was now on his shoulders, and he knew that his next actions would set the tone for how the family would move forward.


    Clearing his throat, Ricky addressed the room with a measured tone, ready to assert control and provide direction in the wake of the chaos.


    The members, still grappling with the betrayal and the absence of their usual leader, awaited Ricky''s words with bated breath, hoping for clarity and resolution.


    "Kill them all."


    As the higher-ups absorbed the gravity of their situation, they stood in somber solidarity, closing their eyes in a moment of silent respect for the brothers they had lost to betrayal.


    Despite their ruthless reputation, they were still men who had shared deep bonds and personal confidences with those who had now turned against them.


    These traitors, these rats, had been in their homes, trusted with their deepest confidences, and considered more than mere co-workers, they were supposed to be family.


    One by one, they trickled out of the room, each taking a piece of the burden with them.


    They trickled out until Ricky was left alone in the room as he tapped his fingers on the desk, staring out the window at the clear blue sky.


    An expanse that all the higher-ups of the Luciano family were walking beneath as they dispersed to handle what needed to be done.


    "Fellas?" A man named Aldo looked up, surprised to see five men from the same family approaching him while he was rolling dice with a group of strangers.


    The bystanders were quickly cleared out, leaving only the Luciano family members as they stared at Aldo with a mix of pain and anger before forcefully pushing him into the alley.


    "Enzo, Carlo, what is the meaning of this and why you interrupting my game-"


    "I welcomed you into my home, Aldo. The place where my wife and daughter live." Enzo made a dismissive gesture with his hand, causing Aldo''s face to drain of color as he instinctively reached for his back pocket.


    *BAM*


    "ARGH!" Aldo couldn''t reach it in time and let out a grunt as Carlo''s fist drove hard into his gut.


    "P-Please-" Aldo collapsed to the ground, holding up his hands for mercy.


    *BAM*


    Carlo''s foot crashed into Aldo''s jaw with brutal force, his face twisted in a rage-filled snarl as he drew out a gun, the steel cold and menacing in his hand.


    "You f*cking rat, how dare you ask for mercy after what you did!" Carlo yelled through gritted teeth, looking at the man who attended his son''s baptism last week.


    "I-I-"


    *BANG*


    Carlo''s rage reached its peak as he fired, blowing Aldo''s brains out in a split second as he let out a staggering breath, his eyes still locked on the scene of his fury before looking back at the grunts they brought with them.


    "Clean it up."


    At a cafe in Brooklyn,


    "Johnny, what''s the matter?" A fat man asked, seated across from Johnny, who clutched his fingers tightly.


    "And why we not sitting at our usual table-"


    "Why''d you do it, Gino?" Johnny looked up with a betrayed expression, having cashed in all his favors for one final conversation with his mentor.


    "...." Gino remained silent, his long tenure in the mafia having taught him all too well what was about to unfold.


    "Genovese was the right guy to lead-"


    *BAM*


    "DAMMIT GINO, THAT WASN''T YOUR CALL TO MAKE!" Johnny, in a fit of aggrieved fury, slammed his hand down onto the table, sending his espresso spilling across the surface.


    "You always said that there were rules in this line of work, but above all, the boss''s words were always right." Johnny reiterated Gino''s own teachings, his finger shaking as he pointed at his mentor, who maintained a calm and unwavering gaze.


    "You broke that rule Gino, tell me why you did it!" Johnny yelled, standing up as he pulled out the revolver.


    "I believed in him, I believed that Genovese was the right man for the job, not Slick."


    *Sniff*


    "I guess you chose wrong." Johnny sniffed, rubbing his nose as the revolver shook violently in his hand.


    "Ha, I guess so." Gino let out a laugh while grabbing the espresso, his very same that didn''t tip over, and took a light slip.


    "Your gonna make it kid, as your mentor I''m proud, so stop being such a sissy and pull the damn trigger-"


    *BANG*


    Gino''s head snapped back, his lifeless body collapsing into the chair where he had once waited for orders.


    As the echo of the gunshot faded, Johnny instinctively slumped back into his chair, putting his head in his hands as the weight of the moment sank in.


    All across New York, the rotten flesh of the Luciano family was being severed, with bodies dropping by the second.


    All the while, Lucky walked along the very streets that the men under him were dropping like flies on as he eventually arrived at his house.


    Lucky didn''t know how long he''d been walking nor did he care as he entered the mansion before heading to his desk.


    Sitting down at his desk, he grabbed a bottle of wine and twisted the cork off while starting to drink.


    Seeing a picture of him and Genovese on his desk, he stopped drinking the wine before gently setting it down on its face.


    The other families were at a loss, unsure of what to make of the sudden bloodshed, seemingly watching the internal massacre unfold within the shadows.


    They hadn''t made any moves yet, but none dared act hastily as Lucky wasn''t one to make impulsive decisions, unlike his reckless son.


    They knew better than to challenge him without understanding his endgame.


    Later that night,


    "And this is the truth?" The man in the trench coat asked, clearly amused as he regarded Dewey with a condescending smile.


    "Sworn testimonies from the border police, complete with the stamp you requested, confirming that Ricky Luciano is indeed a mutant," Dewey said, pointing to the documents as the man flipped through the papers, and his smile widened even more.


    "Y''know, when you first came down here I was skeptical, in my mind you were nothing but another man with a badge." The man leaned back against the wall, his face displaying a veneer of pleasantness while his eyes remained hollow and cold.


    "But to think you got this far against Lucky and provided me with such a valuable piece of information." The man said with a calm smile, chuckling in a hollow tone.


    "Who would''ve thought that leading you to Bass and those other grunts would yield such gratifying results?" The man glanced at Dewey, who appeared genuinely uncomfortable in his presence.


    The true mastermind behind tipping Dewey off about Lucky''s operations and the discontented mobsters within his family wasn''t Genovese, but Joe Bonanno, the head of the Bonanno family.


    Unlike Lucky, who wielded power through brute force, Joe amassed his influence through strategic information-gathering.


    These carefully cultivated connections ultimately led him to Dewey and the enigmatic figure guiding him.


    Joe Bonanno sensed that something was amiss within the Luciano family, particularly regarding Ricky, but he lacked the information and proof needed to make a decisive move.


    He understood that if he engaged directly with Bass or his associates, they would offer him nothing of value.


    That''s why Joe orchestrated Dewey''s involvement with Bass, deliberately putting them together to uncover something on Ricky that would finally yield significant results against the careful Lucky.


    "My boss wants you to know that the deal still stands. You have four years to completely eradicate the other families and if you do, then the New York underworld is yours."Dewey conveyed the message from Franklin, though the sender''s identity remained shrouded in mystery and Joe, still unaware of who was behind the message, was determined to uncover the truth soon.


    "I think I''ll only need three." Joe calmly slid the papers into his trench coat, tipped his fedora in a courteous gesture, and then walked down the alley, his demeanor unruffled.


    "It was such a pleasure working with you Dewey, I hope we meet again." Joe offered his final remarks, leaving Dewey standing there, visibly unnerved by their encounter.


    As Joe disappeared down the alley, Dewey turned away, rubbing his forehead in disbelief.


    The weight of the situation settled on him; he knew he''d have to return to D.C. a failure and work tirelessly to regain his standing, hoping for another opportunity like this one.


    As night fell, so did the last of Genovese''s men as a total of twenty one men, including ten higher ranked members, died at the hands of the family that they were a part of.


    Ricky hadn''t stayed idle during the chaos and instead, he sat comfortably in a chair, shrouded in darkness, as the world unraveled around him.


    Meanwhile, the door creaked open, revealing Dewey, his arms full of groceries and as he stepped inside, an apple slipped from his grasp, tumbling to the floor and rolling into the room.


    "Dammit-"


    *Click*


    The light flickered on, revealing Ricky in its harsh glow as the figure who had turned it on was the very man responsible for the sudden bloodshed.


    "Hello Dewey, funny meeting you after I broke into your apartment." Ricky joked, feeling like some sort of villain in some cheesy story.


    "What the-" Dewey instinctively dropped the bag of groceries, reaching for his side only to realize who was sitting in his temporary living room.


    "You don''t mind that I served myself a drink, do you?" Ricky asked, twirling around an ice cube in his glass of bourbon.


    "Ricky." Dewey''s annoyed expression became a serious one as he didn''t wait for Ricky to gesture to his side as he sat on the chair positioned in front of him.


    "I heard you''ve had some familial problems." Dewey said, deliberately pressing on a sensitive nerve, while Ricky took a slow sip from his glass.


    "Well, if there are problems in a family then it should be solved by said family." Ricky smiled, firing back as Dewey squinted his eyes, understanding the basis of what he was hinting at.


    "I''ll be the first to say it, I underestimated you Ricky." Dewey leaned back in his seat, actually complimenting him but in a hollow way.


    "Oh?" Ricky surprisingly let out, taken aback that Dewey would actually compliment him in any form that wasn''t sarcastic.


    "I thought you were a victim, someone Albert was trying to save," Dewey said, locking eyes with Ricky, remembering how his deceased friend had tried to steer this man back from the path he had long been wandering.


    "But now I see that he was wrong, that I was wrong." Dewey admitted, his voice heavy with regret, that his own compassion and desire for glory had ultimately led him to his failure.


    "I thought I''d be doing him a service by giving you a warning, by letting you walk away. I believed I was honoring Albert''s memory by trying to save the kid he couldn''t rescue all those years ago. But when I saw you at that border, I realized something." Dewey''s words piqued Ricky''s curiosity as he listened intently, waiting to hear more.


    "And that is?" Ricky gestured to Dewey, leaning in with a wide smile.


    "It''s that you can''t be saved, you''re too broken Ricky." Dewey spoke without an ounce of fear as he gazed at someone who could cut him down with a mere thought.


    "Ouch." Ricky feigned a look of hurt as he downed the rest of the bourbon, then placed the empty glass deliberately on the table.


    "Anything else?" Ricky asked, pulling out a pistol with a calculated nonchalance, but Dewey simply shook his head in response.


    "I''m just saddened to see someone with so much potential choose to destroy himself and everyone around him." Dewey said, his voice tinged with disappointment as Ricky laughed, the sound chilling, as he aimed the revolver directly at Dewey.


    *Click*


    Ricky pulled the trigger, but the gun merely clicked; the chamber remained empty as Dewey blinked his eyes open.


    "That''s your last warning, my pops gave me specific instructions to give you one more chance to walk away." Ricky laughed as Dewey flinched at the sound of his trigger pulling.


    "You know I won''t stop-"


    "That''s what I said to him, but he insisted on giving you one more chance." Ricky shrugged since he would have preferred to get Dewey out of the way, but he knew that Lucky had kept him alive for a reason.


    The reason for their hesitation was clear: behind Dewey, there was a puppet master pulling the strings.


    Lucky knew that if they killed Dewey, they would unwittingly sever the connection they had with this unseen force.


    Doing so would put them on the defensive, as Dewey''s death could provoke a coordinated attack from whoever he was working for, thrusting the mob into a perilous conflict with the government.


    So, until Lucky or Ricky could uncover who was truly orchestrating things from behind the scenes, they decided to keep Dewey alive.


    They were fully aware that he would eventually return to New York, but they hoped to glean more information before making any final decisions.


    So Ricky followed through with one condition.


    "However, I did give one condition." Ricky smiled, leaning down and holding up one finger to Dewey.


    "I said that I''d be okay with letting you leave if I could be the one to take your life in the end." Ricky smiled, a cold satisfaction in his expression, as Dewey scoffed and frowned at him.


    "And what makes you think you''ll be the one with the gun in his hand?" Dewey asked with curiosity as Ricky calmly holstered his revolver, the tension in the room shifting.


    "Because you''re right Dewey, I am f*cked up." Ricky admitted, knowing full well that no normal person like him would have such a self-destructive personality just for the thrill of it.


    "But I can see that you''re just as broken as me." Ricky stood over him, spreading his arms wide as Dewey froze, caught in the grip of his words.


    "And the problem with people like us, is that we''re always slipping up, failing, and constantly picking up the pieces of the mess we make." Ricky walked out the door, leaving Dewey to rise from his seat and watch him go, a mix of frustration and resignation in his eyes.


    "You don''t know me!" Dewey yelled after him, causing Ricky to pause at the doorway as he sighed, turning around to face the livid Dewey,


    "You can''t even begin to know the people I work for, know who''s backing me." Dewey continued, walking up to Ricky and staring him straight in the eyes.


    "They know everything Ricky and it''s funny to me that you think things will just work out as planned, but your world is going to turn upside down just like mine did. And there''s nothing you can do to stop it." Dewey''s threat was unmistakable, his words dripping with menace.


    He made it clear that if he was going to suffer, Ricky would be dragged down with him.


    "And you think we''re different but we''re the same-"


    "Except I''m not someone''s little lap dog, I don''t have my strings pulled, and I definitely don''t need to use someone else''s notoriety to threaten someone." Ricky fired back, standing up to the fuming Dewey while holding a mocking smile.


    "But do you want to know what I really am, what I''m really similar to?" Ricky genuinely asked, his tone earnest, while Dewey remained silent but clearly eager for an answer.


    "I''m like a f*cking cockroach," Ricky laughed out at his own comparison, his voice clearly undermining Dewey in front of him as he continued with the analogy.


    "You could detonate a bomb, kill everyone around, and I''d just scurry out of the rubble." Ricky gestured, walking backwards into the hallway while still making direct eye contact with Dewey.


    "I adapt in the worst ways possible. No one likes me, but they have to live with me because I''m not going anywhere. I''ll stay around you; you''ll know I''m there, but you''ll never see me until everything around you is burned to the f*cking ground while I scurry away from the debris." Ricky''s words clearly threatened Dewey, the district attorney''s face remained impassive, a mask of unreadable composure, as he watched Ricky depart backwards toward the elevator.


    "You''re gonna lose Dewey, badly, but before you do, let me give ya a little insight on my one condition." Ricky wasn''t done, in fact, he was going to straight up tell Dewey what he had in store for him.


    "I''m going to take away everything you hold dear," Ricky said, his voice dripping with menace as the elevator doors opened.


    "From the things you hold close to your heart to your very proud career, I''m going to f*cking burn it to the ground and when I do, when you have nothing left to live for." Ricky laughed, stopping before the elevator could close and gazed back at him with a sleazy smile.


    "That''s when I''ll be there right to take the last thing you have left, your life." Ricky left him with a parting message, showing that this wasn''t over until Dewey suffered to his fullest extent.


    "THIS ISN''T OVER SLICK!" Dewey no longer regarded Ricky as a man but as a mobster, a monster, running out the door after him and into the hallway to see Ricky walking away towards the elevator as the doors started to close.


    "I''LL BE BACK AND WHEN I DO, I''LL RAIN HELLFIRE UPON NEW YORK AND BURN THE ENTIRE LUCIANO FAMILY TO THE GROUND!" Dewey roared with a vengeance at Ricky who stopped the doors from closing in just so he could have the last words.


    "And when you try Dewey, I''ll come in at the very last moment and put it out, just to see the look of defeat on your face." Ricky snake back, laughing at him even further as Dewey''s raged state ran forward.


    *Dink*


    Dewey recoiled, an invisible barrier suddenly manifesting in front of him. He glared menacingly at Ricky, who simply mouthed one word.


    ''Everything.''


    Meanwhile in a commission meeting,


    "Now that we''re all here-" Joe formally began the meeting, greeting everyone at their seats with a poised demeanor.


    However, their attention was fixed on the one vacant seat, its presence a silent reminder of the absence that loomed over the gathering.


    "All?" Vinny interrupted, glancing around to gauge the others'' reactions, only to find that they all wore the same expression, one of unspoken apprehension, as they fixed their gaze on Joe Bonanno.


    "Where''s Lucky?" Profaci was the one to break the silence, his voice cutting through the tension as he addressed Joe.


    "I called this meeting because of Lucky-" Joe already knew there would be backlash at first, deciding to speak before he was brutally interrupted.


    "The f*ck Joe." Profaci suddenly stood up, everyone else joined in since a meeting couldn''t be called unless all bosses were present.


    "He''s pulling our legs, tell me you''re pulling our legs Joe!" Frank Nitti swiftly moved to defuse the mounting tension, stepping in to defend Joe with a calm and measured approach.


    "I''m afraid, I cannot fellas." Joe smiled with hollowed eyes, leaving the room in a dead silence.


    "I ain''t standing for this, it''s against the code we put in place-" Profaci shook his head, trying to rid himself of any connection related to this encounter only for Joe to chim in.


    "Ricky ''Slick'' Luciano is a mutant." Joe uttered words that no one had ever anticipated, causing Profaci to freeze at the door, caught in shock and disbelief.


    "What?" Profaci asked, his entire body freezing in place as the other members'' eyes widened in astonishment.


    "Joe, this ain''t funny no more." Stefano spoke out with a deadly tone, prompting the other bosses to reach for their weapons and despite the escalating tension, Joe maintained his smile, unwavering and firm.


    "I can assure you all that Slick is indeed a mutant." Joe said calmly, but his words were cut short as Profaci charged at him with a sudden burst of aggression.


    "Aye Profaci!" Tommy Gaglino lunged forward, trying to intercept Profaci as he swung wildly at Joe with a flurry of fists that only hit the air.


    "LET ME AT HIM, LET ME AT HIM I SAY!" Profaci yelled in rage, seeing red though Joe didn''t even flinch and simply adjusted his tie.


    "My fellow Silician''s, this is a report that I obtained after Slick''s most recent crossing with the officers on duty near the border of Texas and Mexico." Joe held up a piece of paper, Profaci still trying to lunge at him while he took out his reading glasses before clearing his throat.


    "The officer on the scene reported but to sum it up ''the district attorney, Thomas E. Dewey, unable to lawfully convict Ricky Luciano announced to the rest of us that he was a mutant, but when we gazed at the kid he didn''t argue but confirmed the fact'' this was-"


    "GIVE ME THAT!" Profaci yelled, swiping the paper as his anger seethed while his eyes scanned it until a cold bucket of water was poured on it.


    Silent, his hands rummaged through the papers as all of them were quiet since if anyone was on Ricky''s side, then it was Profaci.


    At this point, it was common to all the bosses that Profaci was going to marry his princess away to Ricky which is why they were waiting for his reaction.


    Profaci didn''t say anything but didn''t have to, the paper wasn''t a forgery and he could tell since they hadn''t been able to forge documents with the new government seal as of late.


    All the bosses watched in stunned silence as Profaci''s shoulders slumped, his expression hollow and speechless, knowing what this meant.


    "I know you all have your opinions of me, but I can assure each and every one of you that it is the truth." Joe continued, taking the floor while gazing at his fellow mobsters.


    "Lucky has evidently been covering up this fact from the commission for years and I thought it was best that we discuss this matter without him." Joe then took a seat in the chair, while Carlo looked on with a pleased smirk, clearly enjoying the unfolding scene.


    "I knew that Lucky was a bad egg, taking in a mut like that, it''s disgusting." Carlo scoffed, showing his clear hatred for him as Vinny smacked his head.


    "Listen, Joe, it''s true that Lucky was wrong for not informing us, but it doesn''t matter since Slick isn''t in the-" Vinny began, attempting to ease the tension, only to be interrupted.


    "I''m sure you''re all aware, but Lucky has killed Genovese making the underboss position available and might I add, Slick is currently being groomed to take the mantle, I have firm sources that say sp." Joe continued to fan the flames, his words hollow and fabricated as he spoke to the silent bosses.


    Though his connection with the Luciano family had all but disintegrated that day, the seed of doubt he planted began to take root in their minds.


    It seemed neither fair nor rational, but the mob''s stringent criteria for high positions left little room for leniency.


    Even rival families had a say in these decisions, which was why Lucky had been unable to appoint Meyer or Frank as underbosses in the past.


    However, this situation was different as men of faith, the bosses held a deep-seated aversion to mutants, whom they regarded as Satan worshippers.


    This discrimination added a new layer of complexity to their decisions which only heightened the growing consequences in their heads.


    "But he got the church-" Profaci still tried to say something, anything, to deter this train of thought but Joe wouldn''t let him steer the narrative.


    "How do we know that he obtained the cross with moral means, what if he stole it?" Joe rebutted Profaci who honestly wanted to refute, but his own beliefs made him unable to defend Ricky.


    "Unless he or mutants are officially sanctioned by the church, Slick''s incorporation as the next underboss is a clear violation and must be handled according to the code." Joe announced, getting to the point he was trying to make as they all became quiet at this revelation.


    "Then what do you want us to do, kill him?" Frank Nitti asked out, the others feeling uncomfortable as well once he said it since they couldn''t even begin to know what powers Ricky held.


    Joe wasn''t naive, though. He understood that killing Ricky wasn''t the optimal solution.


    If Ricky could dismantle gangs in a single day, Joe could only imagine the chaos he could unleash in a full-blown war, especially if Lucky wasn''t there to hold him back.


    "Of course not, I don''t want to start a war with Lucky." Joe laughed, shaking his head but that only seemed to make them more confused.


    "We''ll just do what we always do when other ''kinds'' of people intrude into our territory." Joe''s words made them all understand instantaneously as Joe''s eyes formed into crescent moons, looking upon the favorable situation he needed to gather more power and to cripple Lucky mentally even further.


    "We drive them out." Joe then threw a packet onto the table that contained multiple names, pictures, and addresses.


    Next day,


    Arriving into the house to pick up Maria, Ricky walked into the living room to see Profaci in a somewhat distressed state.


    "Slick." Profaci gave a nod to Slick, who was waiting in the living room for Maria.


    "Profaci." Ricky nodded in acknowledgment as the man approached and took a seat directly in front of him.


    "So, you''re a mutant." Profaci revealed that the news of Ricky being a mutant had finally leaked from the Luciano family and spread to the other families.


    Ricky was slightly taken aback by Profaci''s blunt revelation as he hadn''t expected such directness, but he quickly realized, judging by Profaci''s unyielding gaze, that denying it wouldn''t change his mind.


    "I am." Ricky nodded, not bothering to conceal the truth as Profaci''s intense gaze lingered on him.


    After a moment, Profaci closed his eyes, took a long look at his glass, and then set it aside, steeling his resolve before meeting Ricky''s eyes once more.


    "You can''t come here anymore Slick, after today you''re blacklisted from the Profaci family territories along with the other families territories." Profaci spoke to Ricky with a heavy heart, leaving Ricky bewildered by the sudden and unexpected proclamation.


    "What are you talking about?" Ricky was caught off guard, thinking this was some sort of weird joke of his as he let out a small anxious chuckle.


    "The commission met last night, Slick." Profaci spoke with a heavy tone, and Ricky, caught off guard, sprang to his feet in haste.


    "That''s against the rules-"


    "5:1, the commission has voted." Profaci stood up and placed a hand on Ricky''s shoulder, shaking his head as he did.


    "Kid, if you don''t leave New York, then it''ll be war." Profaci was pained to even utter the words, but he knew he had to be the one to deliver the message.


    "Does-"


    "Yes, Lucky should''ve been notified right about now." Profaci spoke, but Ricky merely scoffed and pushed him away.


    "You can''t be serious Profaci, my pops will never let this go." Ricky couldn''t believe what was happening, this scenario completely catching him off guard.


    "I know." Profaci understood the kind of man Lucky was and observed as Ricky paced restlessly around the room.


    "Why are you doing this, I thought you wanted me to be your family?" Ricky asked out, bewildered, while Profaci looked down in silence and he continued, pressing for answers.


    "I''m a part of this community, I''m a part of the mob, you can''t just kick me out of the place I belong." Ricky laughed at the statement, finding the whole situation absurd, considering he was just as much a mobster as any of them and Profaci slowly lifted his gaze to meet Ricky''s eyes.


    "That''s the problem Ricky, you were never a part of the italian community, you were never one us." Profaci drew a line between them, clearly marking where he stood and where Ricky truly belonged.


    "You were always a mutant and that''s all you''ll ever be." Profaci''s words struck Ricky like a knife, leaving him stunned into a brief silence.


    "You''re actually serious? You think that just because I''m a mutant, I''m somehow different-" Ricky, never having faced such blatant discrimination from the mob before, was taken aback.


    "Yes, the things you can do go against the nature of God, powers that humans were never meant to wield." Profaci shook his head, his stance striking Ricky with the full force of inequality of what all other mutants in this period face like him.


    "Is this what you really think of me?" Ricky asked, staring at the man who had treated him like family just days ago, now viewing him with contempt as a disgrace.


    "I don''t have a choice, this is just how it has to be and always has been." Profaci showed his stnace, putting a line between them.


    "You can''t do this-.....you just can''t." Ricky vehemently denied it, but Profaci simply looked back at him with a face full of disappointment.


    "Dammit Slick, can''t you even see that you lost?" Profaci looked at Ricky, who was visibly taken aback by his words as that fact never came across his mind.


    "What do you mean I lost, I f*cking won, I beat Dewey and-" Ricky, visibly hysterical, pointed to himself, his anger boiling over as he propped himself up after having beaten the man who tried to dismantle his family.


    "Everything you''ve built yourself up as, everything you''ve done within the mob, doesn''t matter after what Joe revealed at the meeting." Profaci said deliberately, his gaze unwavering as Ricky glared at him, teeth clenched in a mixture of fury and disbelief.


    "Joe''s a nobody-" Ricky laughed out, thinking of Joe Bonanno as nothing more than a psycho.


    "Joe played you like a fiddle, played us all." Profaci sat down, swirling his drink as Ricky didn''t accept these words at all and scoffed.


    "And the fact you can''t see it, concerns me." Profaci''s words struck Ricky silent, leaving him staring at the man with a mix of disbelief and anguish.


    "How." Ricky wiped his mouth, giving in and asking Profaci who sighed deeply.


    "How did you think he found out, who has the most to gain from you leaving, think Ricky?" Profaci watched as Ricky''s expression shifted, the realization dawning on him with a jolt.


    "He''s colluding with Dewey, and you didn''t tell me-" Ricky put it together, holding his head as he immediately blamed Profaci who laughed.


    "There''s someone else behind this." Profaci firmly concluded, his voice tight with frustration.


    "Dewey couldn''t have spread the news so extensively without help. I didn''t see it until the meeting, but now it''s clear, there''s someone else orchestrating this." Profaci looked at Ricky who nodded along, coming to this conclusion as well but they couldn''t prove it so it didn''t matter.


    They stood in awkward silence, the tension between them almost palpable and Profaci, aware of the danger, felt the weight of Ricky''s gaze.


    Ricky, who could effortlessly end Profaci''s life with a mere thought, something the unsuspecting Profaci remained oblivious to, finally reached the point where Ricky resorted to making threats.


    "Honestly Profaci, could you really even stop me, do you think that if you waged war that you''d win?" Ricky stepped up to Profaci, looking down at him with a cold intensity.


    But then, with a shake of his head, he took a deep breath, the threat lingering in the charged silence.


    "No, I don''t." Profaci spoke from the heart, knowing that Ricky must have something to be so bold in front of him


    "Although I''m not fully aware of your capabilities, I''m well aware of your families capabilities, and I am almost certain that you''ll come out the victor." Profaci explained, his words steady despite the tension.


    Ricky, however, couldn''t help but laugh, his gaze locked on Profaci as he tried to make sense of the situation.


    "Then why should I leave, what would make me even consider just letting this go?" Ricky genuinely asked, watching as Profaci absently touched his pinky ring.


    "Because the families won''t only go after you, we''ll go after everything you care about." Profaci said, laying his cards on the table as Ricky''s expression hardened while processing the threat.


    "Alina, Maria, Lucky, Frank, Jake, Henry, Madame St. Clair, Chores, and Barko are some of the few we know about." Profaci took another sip, Ricky side-eyeing him with a dangerous glint in his eyes.


    "You''ll win, but not after losing everything." Profaci''s words made Ricky really emotional as his eyes were as sharp as a dagger.


    "You and your family don''t have the resources to protect it all, you''ll win but only if you lose as well." Profaci tried to speak reason, but Ricky cut him off, his patience wearing thin.


    "Watch it Profaci." Ricky was clearly uninterested in the threats, but the old mobster remained unfazed.


    "No Ricky, it''s you who needs to watch himself." Profaci stood up, staring Ricky head on with an unfazed glare.


    "If you think that we can''t get to the people-"


    "I can protect them-"


    "Like Rocco and Eddy." Profaci went for the throat as Ricky choked on his words, looking away in guilt.


    "We both know you can''t protect everyone, all at once." Profaci used his final card, knowing that Ricky might be powerful but he couldn''t be in all places at once.


    "You really want to do this, don''t you?" Ricky asked, nodding his head to the side with a hollow smile.


    "I was left with no other choice."Profaci didn''t want things to come to this, but sometimes tough decisions had to be made, even if it meant facing Ricky in this harsh manner.


    "I thought-...I thought much like your father, that if I gave you enough time that you''d straighten out, iron out all the kinks in that tough armor of yours." Profaci straightened out Ricky'' clothes, flicking some lint from his shoulder.


    "I thought you could become a leader so that I could intrust my Maria too." Profaci spoke from the heart, showing his sincerity through his words.


    "But you just can''t see the bigger picture Slick, you can''t see ahead of you and that''s your biggest weakness." Profaci got down to the bare bones of it, speaking the truth from what he saw.


    "You''re just not a leader." Profaci revealed his true thoughts about Ricky, stripping away the veneer of camaraderie to show that Ricky was far from what he had believed him to be.


    "I''m gonna be the Luciano family underboss, I''m a leader-" Ricky fired back, trying to argue with Profaci who shook his head.


    "People who claim that their leaders aren''t true leaders, but mere entertainers, are often the ones who misunderstand the essence of true leadership." Profaci believed, giving Ricky a nugget of wisdom.


    "You''re not a leader; you''re just entertainment. People are drawn to you because you amuse them, not because you inspire them," Profaci scoffed, showing the truth of who he was as Ricky gritted his teeth.


    "Your power isn''t about guiding or building; it''s about spectacle. You''re the flashy show, the sideshow act that grabs attention but fails to lead. People watch, they cheer, but when the curtain falls, you''re just a performer who couldn''t keep them engaged. That''s your real legacy, empty excitement and fleeting thrills." Profaci said, his words cutting deeper than any blade into Ricky as the mutant stood before him without a discerning expression.


    "I had high hopes for you, Ricky. I saw potential, believed you could rise above the noise and become something more than just a spectacle. But now, seeing you for what you really are, it''s clear that this is all you''ll ever amount to, just a fleeting moment of excitement, lacking the substance and vision to truly lead-" Profaci continued, rubbing salt in the wound as Ricky clenched his fist.


    *Bam*


    Ricky''s fist collided with Profaci''s mouth, sending the old mobster reeling back as Profaci grabbed the chair behind him to steady himself, a surprised laugh escaping his lips as he wiped the blood from his split lip.


    "The families have already started surrounding your territories, if you know what''s best for you then you''ll leave." Profaci words pressed on, threatening Ricky even further.


    "F*ck you Profaci, I can''t believe you''re taking Joe''s side." Ricky gnashed his teeth at Profaci, angered by everything he was hearing as he knew that Lucky needed to be warned.


    "This is the real world Slick, it ain''t no f*cking movie where everything just goes the way you want it to." Profaci spit out to the side, blood staining the carpet beneath him while spreading out his arms.


    "If anything, I''m doing you a favor, teaching you a valuable lesson that you can''t trust anyone but yourself." Profaci''s words rang with hypocrisy, yet beneath the veneer of his criticism, there was a flicker of hope that Ricky might one day surpass his current limitations.


    "Let me go, LET ME GO!" Maria broke free from Ninfa''s grasp and dashed down the stairs, her footsteps echoing with urgency as she fled.


    "RICKY!" Maria''s scream pierced the air, and Ricky''s head snapped toward the sound, his steps faltering as he instinctively moved forward until Profaci blocked Ricky''s path.


    "Move-"


    "Slick, I can''t involve Maria in this and if you love her like you say you do, then you know too." Profaci tried to calm Ricky, his voice soothing yet firm, as Ninfa yanked Maria back into her room. Maria''s sobs echoed through the hallway, her cries piercing and desperate.


    "Screw you." Ricky pushed Profaci away, literally being threatened by him mere moments ago as Profaci grabbed his clothes to stop him.


    "If this goes down and I have to choose, I-.....I can''t protect her if you go through with this." Profaci pleaded with Ricky, who was visibly agitated, his eyes darting between Maria, now held against the wall, and Profaci''s restraining grip.


    "Then give her to me-"


    "I-I can''t do that, the second you leave here with Maria, she''s as good as dead." Profaci''s words struck deep, leaving Ricky stunned and visibly hurt.


    "Is that what you really think of me, do you think I won''t be able to protect Maria?" Ricky asked, bringing up his old wounds from earlier.


    "Yes, I don''t think you can, everything you''ve shown me till now proves my point, you''re someone who only protects himself." Profaci''s bold words left Ricky breathless, cutting through his fa?ade to reveal the selfish, cowardly man beneath.


    "What is wrong with you-" Ricky asked, watching Profaci''s threatening demeanor turning into clear begging as Profaci lashed back out.


    "What is wrong with you, how could you let this happen-" Profaci snapped back, thinking that if he had Ricky''s power then none of this would have turned out the way it did.


    "I didn''t let this happen-"


    "That''s the point I was trying to make Slick, you failed, but most of all, you lost." Profaci explained, revealing that Ricky''s ignorance of this fundamental truth was precisely why he had failed.


    "Profaci, trust me they won''t win-" Ricky assured him, trying to move forward only for Profaci to cling onto him further.


    "I can''t lose Maria like I lost my brother, you need to leave." Profaci understood that he couldn''t halt Ricky if the latter chose to disregard him, which is why, in this moment, the mafia boss who ruled over Long Island cast aside his pride to protect what he cherished most deeply.


    "Do you think I''ll be pushed around like some chump, that I''ll just give it all up-" Ricky yelled out, pushing Profaci back as the man held up his hand.


    "No, that''s not what I''m saying Slick, I''m saying the people around you will, and only once you realize your own weakness, it will already be too late." Profaci spoke from a place of deep personal experience, haunted by the memories of his deceased older brother that died because of his own rashness.


    "Do you want the truth Slick, man to man." Profaci finally looked up at Ricky, firmly trying to find the words to keep Ricky from taking Maria.


    "You don''t have the tools to fight these guys and you know it, I know you do." Profaci pointed directly at Ricky''s heart, his eyes locked onto the younger man''s, conveying a depth of emotion that words alone couldn''t capture.


    "You''re just too young, too naive, too arrogant, too rash, and too stupid." Profaci declared with brutal honesty, his voice carrying a weight of years of experience.


    "You want advice, real advice? Sharpen your knives, Ricky. The only way out of this mess is through a battle you might win, but remember, the war is one you''ll ultimately lose." Profaci was confident in this fact, looking at Ricky as someone who could win a fight no problem but might crumble under the weight of a war.


    "Your kidding, what can these guys do-"


    "Listen Ricky, I''m just here to give you the words of the families and the commission." Profaci stepped back as a line was once again drawn between them.


    "If you don''t leave New York in two weeks, then there will be a war." Profaci stood resolute, unwavering in the face of Ricky''s stunned silence.


    "From here on out, you have been exiled from the order of the commission. You can no longer be a part of the Luciano family, conduct Luciano family operations, and belong to the Luciano family." Profaci spoke his words as if reading off of a script, informing him of the commission''s decision.


    "You may keep your last name, but that''s all you''re allowed to keep." Profaci''s words sparked Ricky''s anger, looking at him with a newfound animosity.


    Ricky anticipated resistance from the other families once his mutant status became public.


    However, what he failed to grasp was that while the mafia might tolerate his powers due to the church''s influence, the real problem lay in his inability to fully integrate with them.


    His powers might be accepted, but his differences made him fundamentally distinct from the rest, resulting in him being a black sheep.


    These mobsters only trusted full blooded Sicilians, which Ricky was now considered a bastard.


    "Is this how it is Profaci?" Ricky asked, clearly feeling betrayed by Profaci who nodded.


    "This is how it has to be." Profaci spoke the words he never wanted to say as Ricky walked towards the door.


    "I won''t just run away-"


    "It''s ironic since that''s one of the things you''re best at." Profaci stepped up to him, Ricky looking at the crying Maria and backing away.


    "This isn''t over." Ricky pointed at Profaci, warning him in advance.


    Walking out the door, Ricky went inside his car and drove off only for Maria to break down the door.


    "Maria you need-" Profaci calmly spoke, seeing her fuming as she ran down the stairs.


    *SLAP*


    Maria slapped him across the face, her hand leaving a stinging mark as Ninfa, trailing behind her, gasped in shock; Maria had never shown such raw defiance before.


    "How could you live with yourself, Ricky is one of you-"


    "He was." Profaci''s cold words cut through the tension, his voice unwavering as he turned his face back to Maria with a firm, unyielding expression.


    "But he''s not a Sicilian, he''s a mutant and there''s a difference."


    Meanwhile at the Luciano Residence,


    Lucky''s office was a scene of chaos, with papers scattered and furniture overturned.


    "Do they realize who they''re dealing with?" Lucky sat in the center, laughing maniacally as Ricky walked in, the sight of Lucky''s frenzied state..


    "Lucky, listen to us-" Meyer tried to calm Lucky down only to be pushed aside, Lucky marching forward and looking at Ricky.


    "Get everyone ready, if it''s a war they want then it''s a war they''ll get." Lucky interrupted Meyer who backed away, Lucky informing them all as Frank had an uneasy expression.


    "Slick, could you give us a second to talk-" Frank turned towards Ricky and asked out, knowing that this situation was a touchy one.


    "No, he''s now the underboss of the Luciano family and he''s staying, it''s final" Lucky''s command came out in a burst of anger, his frustration palpable as Frank struggled to guide Ricky toward the door amid the chaos of Lucky''s rage.


    "Lucky-" Meyer attempted to reach Lucky, but the aftermath of Genovese''s death had left Lucky in a visibly deteriorated state, something Ricky couldn''t ignore.


    "My boy ain''t leaving, I ain''t- '''' Lucky yelled, his voice breaking as he struggled to get the words out.


    "I ain''t losing anyone else." Lucky felt a profound sense of defeat and powerlessness, despite being the most formidable mob boss in all of New York at that moment.


    "Pops, you''re not gonna lose me-" Ricky tried to offer reassurance, but Frank abruptly placed a hand on his shoulder, signaling a shift in the situation.


    "Slick, please."Frank gestured for Ricky to leave the office as Lucky slumped into his chair, defeated and Meyer placed a comforting hand on Lucky''s shoulder.


    "Frank-"


    "I know that it might be a lot with everything happening, but can you do me a favor and check on Eddy for me?" Frank asked, though it was clear what he intended, as Lucky needed his solitude with Ricky understanding and nodding in agreement.


    "Alright." Ricky smiled, glancing back at Lucky in his distressed state before trusting Frank to handle the situation as he then walked to his car, where he glanced at a box of specially ordered sheets.


    ''Guess it''s as good a time as any to give these to him.''


    30 minutes later,


    "So that is what is happening outside?" Eddy spoke as he gazed out the window, his eyes distant, while Ricky sighed and leaned back in his chair.


    "Yep, it''s a total sh*t show out there and I have no idea what to do." Ricky spoke, admitting that when he was driving to the mansion, he wasn''t thinking about anyone else until he saw his father.


    "Give me some advice, I would go to Jake but he''d probably just say to fight head on." Ricky spoke, admitting that as he drove to the mansion, he hadn''t thought about anyone else until he saw his father.


    *Sigh*


    "I don''t know." Eddy spoke honestly as he gazed at the sheets in his hand, gently caressing them and feeling their soft texture.


    "Oh come on Eddy, that''s really all you have for me?" Ricky asked with a wry smile but Eddy only closed his eyes.


    "Slick, how should you react when you''re pushed into a situation they never wanted to be in?" Eddy asked Ricky a question, prompting him to tilt his head in curiosity.


    "Find a way out of it?" Ricky seemed to ask, and Eddy shrugged, finally meeting his gaze after a long period of silence.


    "Then find your way out." Eddy told Ricky, hsi eyes conveying a deep meaning though the latter''s mind was filled with too much to notice as he stood up with a chuckle.


    "You speak as if you have experience." Ricky laughed it off, and Eddy, for the first time since the accident, allowed a genuine smile to appear on his face.


    "Well, I''ll come visit tomorrow to see how those sheets are fitting, alright?" Ricky waved, strolling out of the door as Eddy looked at him.


    "You know I never blamed you for what happened to me, right?" Eddy suddenly spoke, causing Ricky to halt in his tracks just before he reached the door.


    "Of course buddy." Ricky gave Eddy a wink and a smile, which prompted Eddy to nod his head in response.


    ''Good luck Ricky.''


    Later that night,


    Ricky gazed up at the mansion from which Profaci had banished him. He knew he had to see Maria, no matter what.


    Gazing down at the various men patrolling the ground, Ricky walked on an invisible platform above them until he was high above the house.


    Ricky realized that Maria had initially been intended as just another target.


    Yet, as time passed, he found himself inexplicably drawn to her, though not in a way that made him love her.


    Her presence seemed to complicate his life further, adding layers of difficulty to his already troubled existence.


    From an outsider''s perspective, Maria seemed unremarkable, just an ordinary girl with her head in the clouds and problems that only someone with privileged innocence could understand.


    She didn''t fit the mold of someone from a mobster family; instead, she appeared nurtured by pure love rather than the rigid rules that shaped others'' fates and personalities towards marriage in this era.


    Despite this, Ricky was drawn to her, whether by mere association or something deeper.


    Over time, this proximity transformed into a subtle jealousy, as he couldn''t help but envy the simplicity and purity she seemed to possess.


    Initially, Ricky relished the idea of Maria, seeing her as a beautiful, privileged girl whose charm he wanted to taste firsthand.


    However, as he spent more time with her, his perspective began to shift.


    In stark contrast to his own corrupted mind, Maria always seemed to see the good in everything, trying to find any excuse for the bad.


    Her unwavering optimism and almost childlike belief in the goodness around her made her appear to embrace a world filled with hope and possibility.


    In a way, Ricky''s attachment to Maria wasn''t really love but envy.


    He genuinely envied her ability to love so openly, finding himself unable to even fathom such a feeling.


    His own personality seemed to self-destruct before he could reach that state of vulnerability and connection.


    Seemingly deep down, Ricky was around her out of spite, a paradox of emotion where his resentment and envy masked a deeper, more complex attachment.


    He stayed close to Maria not only because he was unwilling to let go but also because her presence was a constant reminder of the innocence and simplicity he could never attain.


    He struggled to appreciate the genuine feelings she offered, instead seeing them through his own distorted perspective.


    The window of her room was slightly ajar, and Ricky carefully climbed through it, his movements calculated and deliberate.


    As soon as he landed inside, Maria was upon him, her arms wrapping around him with a desperate intensity.


    She buried her face against his chest, eyes shut tight, her embrace a mix of relief and longing.


    The warmth of her body and the softness of her touch contrasted sharply with the harsh reality Ricky had faced, offering a brief respite from the turmoil that surrounded them.


    "I knew you''d come."Maria whispered softly as she looked up at Ricky as he smiled down at her, his fingers gently caressing her chin with a tender touch.


    "I''ll always come for you." Ricky whispered back to Maria, his words accompanied by a smile and teary eyes.


    As their lips met, Maria didn''t pull away; instead, she leaned further into him, gripping him tightly.


    Amidst the chaos and the troubling news from her uncle, she felt that letting go at this moment would mean losing him forever.


    "Ricky I''m ready~"


    Author''s Note: Massive Chapter for 8k collections. Just want to say a thank you for everyone who likes my writing and I''m glad that you all enjoy my story, even when it''s a tad frustrating.

 Chapter 66 - 65: The Princesses First Time (R18)

    Chapter 66: Chapter 65: The Princesses First Time (R18)


    Staring intently at Maria, he didn''t hesitate and slowly took her into a kiss as Maria shed away that last last bit of fear within her mind.


    Ricky''s hands traced the curves of her body with deliberate care, his fingers deftly unfastening the clasps.


    One by one, the pieces of her clothing slipped away, cascading gently to the floor.


    Their clothes fell in soft layers around them, draping the floor in a quiet circle, but their lips remained locked in a heated embrace, unyielding.


    Only when the last piece of fabric touched the ground did they stand bare before each other.


    Grabbing Maria''s cheek, she nestled into his hand while feeling the incredible heartache pulsating through her being.


    "You can''t go Ricky, you just can''t~" Maria cried, tears streaming down her soft cheeks while gazing up at Ricky who shook his head.


    "I''m not going anywhere." Ricky whispered, taking her into another passionate kiss before slowly picking her up.


    She wrapped her arms around his neck, her body sinking softly into the bed as he laid her down with care.


    Her eyes, tinged with a firm blush, stayed locked on his, unwavering in the face of her own embarrassment.


    They shared a tender kiss, their lips brushing together in a delicate rhythm, until Ricky gently pulled away as his lips began a slow, deliberate descent, tracing a path down her smooth skin.


    Maria''s body trembled, her breath hitching as she bit down on her lip, her body tense with anticipation.


    Her legs parted slowly, her heart racing as Ricky''s face hovered just above her most cherished place,


    Her two soft, pink lips pressed together gently, the epitome of what could only be described as the pure embodiment of a woman''s untouched innocence.


    As Ricky leaned in, Maria trembled, her body reacting instinctively as her eyes fluttered shut.


    A shiver ran through her as his warm, slick tongue gently caressed her most intimate spot, teasing her senses before slipping inside, drawing out a soft, uncontainable gasp.


    "Hmmm~" Maria let out a soft, breathless moan, her chest rising and falling as her small, perky breasts heaved with each panting breath.


    Ricky''s tongue delved deeper, its movements sending waves of pleasure through her, making her body tense and tremble beneath his touch.


    Ricky could have relied on the ease of his usual skills, but he chose not to. He wanted to savor the moment naturally, without any enhancements.


    He wrapped his hands firmly around her small thighs, gripping them tightly as he pressed deeper, immersing himself fully in the connection.


    Even as Ricky slithered his tongue into her untouched depths, each movement felt laborious, the space snug and almost resisting, yet, his efforts were complimented in Maria''s quiet, whispered moans.


    Ricky''s touch was gentle, a stark contrast to his typical roughness with others as Maria had become a sort of solace, a cherished reward amidst the turmoil and suffering he had endured.


    This tenderness was evident in the way Ricky approached Maria, his movements careful and deliberate as he was determined to ensure that she experienced as little pain as possible.


    "H-Ha~" Maria moaned softly, her legs instinctively trying to close, but Ricky gently pried them apart.


    He continued to work his magic on her tender, sensitive lips, each touch and caress eliciting waves of pleasure.


    As Ricky continued, Maria''s breath began to quicken, her hands clutching the sheets tightly.


    The unfamiliar sensations were overwhelming, as she had never explored her own body before, making the experience both awkward and intense.


    However, with Ricky''s gentle and cautious approach, she gradually started to embrace the pleasures of womanhood.


    Each flick of his tongue, instead of causing hesitation, sent waves of pleasure through her, guiding her deeper into the newfound sensations.


    Building up a subtle yet intense heat deep within the core of her being, slowly moving around while losing herself to him until she arched her back, offering herself to him, lost in the blissful sensations he evoked.


    "Oh Ricky~" Maria moaned, her head tossing side to side as she felt a growing pressure and tightness within her, a sensation building intensely in her core.


    "I-I-I feel weird~" Maria suddenly voiced her thoughts, her mind racing to comprehend the overwhelming sensations she was experiencing.


    Her words were punctuated by gasps as Ricky increased his pace, pushing her further into this realm of uncharted pleasure.


    Ricky savored the sweet, innocent taste of Maria, his tongue eagerly exploring her folds until he found a spot that made her shiver with delight.


    Feeling the tremor in response, he smiled, as if discovering something precious.


    However, instead of continuing, he shifted his focus, moving his lips upward. Maria, confused and unable to voice her question, felt a mix of anticipation and curiosity.


    Ricky then began again, his tongue gently caressing her clit with a tender, deliberate touch that brought a renewed wave of pleasure as one of his hands slithered downwards..


    "A-Ah~" Maria moaned, her body arching in response as she felt Ricky''s fingers slip inside her, exploring with a deft touch.


    She instinctively grabbed at his hair, her fingers tangling in the strands as the intense sensation coursed through her, heightening her pleasure.


    "I-I-"


    "It''s okay Maria, it''s okay." Ricky murmured soothing words, his touch steadying as he gently focused on the sweet spot he had carefully found.


    He continued to tug and stimulate the area with a delicate precision, working to ease her into a deeper, more controlled wave of pleasure.


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    Maria''s moans grew more intense, a rising crescendo of pleasure as Ricky increased his pace.


    With each swift movement, he guided her towards the peak, his fingers deftly signaling her to release, his touch both urging and coaxing her towards climax.


    "AH~"


    With one final, powerful motion, Maria''s sweet nectar flowed abundantly, cascading around her most intimate depths.


    The rich fluid spread and coated her, preparing her for the next wave of pleasure, a natural lubrication enhancing the experience to come.


    The sweet nectar slowly seeped from her tender pink lips, trickling down and coating Ricky''s fingers.


    He eagerly licked the fluid from his fingertips, savoring the taste of her essence with a satisfied, knowing smile.


    "Ricky~" Maria didn''t have a chance to react with a smile before she covered her face in embarrassment.


    Ricky, standing now, hovered over her with a gaze full of intense focus as he looked down at her, taking in the sight of her vulnerable body, and then at the sweet, hanging cherries that were now within his reach,


    His cock twitched instinctively at the sight of her: her beautiful pink lips, touched with a delicate peach hue, pressed tightly together, still glistening with the nectar he had just savored.


    "Maria, I''m going to put it in, alright?" Ricky asked, his voice low and intense as he grasped her small thighs, drawing her closer to his throbbing cock.


    "W-Will you hold me?" Maria extended her hands, her body opening fully to him, offering herself completely.


    Ricky''s pupils dilated, his breath coming out in ragged gasps as he took in the sight that made him almost lose it.


    ''Just calm down, calm the f*ck down!'' Ricky let out a silent scream of passion in his head, his internal urgency contrasting with the warm smile he displayed.


    Instead of pouncing on her with reckless hunger, he leaned down slowly, his movements deliberate and pulling her into a tender embrace.


    Her eyes fluttered shut as Ricky descended, their lips meeting in a brief yet sensual kiss, meant to ease any concerns she might have.


    As he pulled away, he directed his attention to her other lips, pressing the tip of his cock gently into her soaking slit, his movements deliberate and filled with intention.


    "O-Ow~" Maria whimpered as she felt a sharp pain before even the full length of his tip had fully entered her.


    Despite her discomfort, Ricky remained focused on his own needs, showing no intention of pausing and instead, he slowly pressed the entire length of his tip deeper into her.


    "OW, OW~" Maria whined, tears welling in her eyes as a trace of blood marked the threshold of her womanhood.


    Ricky, biting his lip, felt his heart pound intensely at the sight of her gripping him and pulled himself back from slamming it in.


    "R-Ricky, it really hurts~" Maria whimpered, wrapping her thin arms around his back before hitting her head against her chest.


    "I know, I know." Ricky gently kissed her forehead, fully aware that the pain was only going to intensify.


    Embracing her with a firm, yet comforting hold, he began to slowly push his cock into her tight, tender embrace.


    As he continued, more blood seeped out, marking the deep and irreversible imprint of his presence on her body as Ricky slowly took away her virginity.


    Maria, this time, did not whine but clenched her teeth, her pussy wrapping around him with a vice-like grip.


    Ricky paused, feeling the overwhelming pressure of her walls squeezing him so tightly that he was forced to take a deep breath, trying to steady his racing heart.


    The tightness enveloping him was unlike anything he had ever experienced, an intense sensation that felt as if it might cut off the circulation of his cock.


    It was the pinnacle of an intoxicating sensation; Ricky had to remain intensely focused, acutely aware of every movement and touch.


    The overwhelming pleasure was so consuming that he feared he might lose himself entirely to the sensation if he let his guard down.


    "Just a bit more, Maria." Ricky whispered, his voice a blend of concern and desire.


    "I promise it will get better." Ricky encouraged Maria gently, his resolve firm as he felt the profound connection between them, knowing he would remain immersed in this moment.


    Maria nodded slightly, her face pressed against his chest, her breath coming in hot, ragged gasps.


    She clung to him, her fingers digging into his back, finding solace in his embrace as she navigated through the intense pain.


    Ricky resumed his slow, deliberate thrusts, his cock inching deeper into her tight, virgin pussy as he sought to fully embed himself.


    As he advanced, Maria''s walls stretched and adjusted to accommodate his girth, the pain a sharp contrast to the depth of his intrusion.


    At times, she felt breathless, her body reacting to the sensation of his cock seemingly reaching through her stomach, pressing against her womb.


    With only a small portion left to penetrate, Ricky gave a gentle, yet firm thrust as Maria''s grip on him tightened, her body shuddering as she fully accepted him, the intensity of the experience leaving her overwhelmed and shaken.


    *Sniff*


    *Sniff*


    Ricky had momentarily lost himself in the overwhelming sensations until the sounds of Maria''s crying jolted him back to reality.


    He looked down to see her, tears streaming as she clung to him, her distress evident in her tightly closed eyes and trembling body.


    "M-Maria I didn''t-"


    "Y-You meanie~" Maria whimpered, shivering uncontrollably like a frightened puppy in the presence of a predator.


    "I know, I''m the worst." Ricky sighed, chastising himself for his naivety as he held Maria tightly, offering comfort while she sobbed uncontrollably.


    The experience, which was meant to be the pinnacle of their love, instead felt overwhelmingly painful for her.


    Despite hours spent reading novels and listening to stories, Maria had never expected for it to feel this way, to feel such an intense discomfort.


    Ricky paused all movement, focusing solely on soothing her, gently caressing and whispering reassurances.


    He waited patiently for her signals to continue, her sobbing gradually softened into light sniffling, a sign that she was beginning to regain her composure.


    "Are you feeling better?" Ricky asked gently, his eyes soft as he looked down at the calmed Maria.


    She responded with a slight nod, her head bobbing ever so slightly as she signaled her readiness to continue.


    "Yeah~" Maria whispered, her gaze looking up at Ricky with a hint of vulnerability and affection as he responded by leaning in for a light, passionate kiss.


    They stood intertwined, their bodies pressed together, as their tongues danced in a slow, sensual exploration, deepening the connection between them.


    "So, can I continue?" Ricky broke the kiss and asked, his voice gentle and curious as Maria''s cheeks immediately puffed up like a chipmunk.


    "You''re such a horn dog!" Maria playfully hit his chest, prompting a laugh from Ricky.


    But when he saw her smile, he couldn''t help but lean down to capture her lips in another soft, lingering kiss.


    Ricky opted for gentle, shallow thrusts, withdrawing his cock slightly before easing it back in with care.


    He felt Maria''s body trembling in his embrace and continued this slow rhythm, aiming to help her adjust and relax.


    To soothe her, Ricky roamed his hands across her body, caressing her skin tenderly.


    Though the process was gradual, Maria began to feel the pain subsiding, gradually replaced by the emergence of a new sensation: pleasure.


    As Ricky''s soothing touch and careful movements worked their magic, she started to embrace this evolving feeling, finding comfort and enjoyment in the intimate connection they shared.


    "Ricky-" Maria gasped, her voice barely above a whisper.


    "It feels strange-......I feel strange." Maria, her cheeks flushed with a slight blush, curiously asked Ricky as he chuckled softly, finding her genuine curiosity endearing.


    "That''s normal." Ricky replied softly, his lips brushing gently against her ear.


    "Just breathe, Maria. Focus on me."


    Gradually, the initial sharp pain began to fade, giving way to a growing warmth that spread through Maria''s core.


    She could now truly feel Ricky''s cock filling her, stretching her in ways she had never imagined, the discomfort giving way to a new sensation of fullness.


    Her whimpers turned into soft moans as her body slowly adjusted to his size, the pleasures of intimacy enveloping her in a warm, gratifying experience.


    Encouraged by her response, Ricky gained confidence in his movements as his thrusts grew more fluid, each motion guided by the rhythmic connection they were building together.


    He held her close, their bodies pressed together, the warmth of their skin creating an intimate cocoon around them.


    As the minutes passed, Maria''s moans grew louder, her hips instinctively moving to meet Ricky''s gentle thrusts.


    The pain persisted, but it was now mingled with a budding pleasure that made her head spin.


    Ricky could feel her walls gradually relaxing, accommodating him more deeply with each thrust.


    "See?" Ricky murmured, his voice rich with a tender mix of pride and affection.


    "You''re doing so well, Maria." Ricky let out a whisper of tender encouragement, seeing the blushing princess clutch onto him further in embarrassment.


    Maria attempted to respond, but her words were lost in a breathless moan, her body arching towards him in the next moment.


    As he filled her completely, she gently turned her head to the side, feeling so lost in the experience under Ricky.


    "Ah~" Maria moaned, twisting and turning under Ricky''s supple thrusts.


    His movements grew more rhythmic, each thrust carefully measured to maximize her pleasure while ensuring her comfort.


    Maria''s nails lightly raked across Ricky''s back as she surrendered to the sensations, her mind a whirlwind of pain, pleasure, and the profound intimacy of their connection.


    Ricky could feel his own pleasure building, but he held back, determined to make this first time as special for her as possible.


    What began as a mission had evolved into something far more meaningful for him.


    Despite the complexities and pressures of his situation with the families, Ricky was resolved to take care of Maria in the near future.


    "Ricky I-AH~"


    "Something is-AH~"


    "IT''S-AH~"


    "Maira, it''s okay I''m here." Ricky whispered, leaning down to meet her squirming, confused form.


    Maria felt the sensation deeply, as if Ricky was inching closer to the very core of her being as his cock pressed against her womb.


    With each thrust, something began to awaken within her, causing her breath to quicken as she felt a new, intense wave of sensation spreading through her.


    Maria panted out, feeling scared at this weird feeling only to feel the reassuring hug from Ricky as she closed both eyes and wholly trusted him.


    Then, with a final, deep thrust, Ricky buried himself inside her, their bodies entwined in a perfect union.


    "AHHHHHHHHH~" Maria moaned as the weight and build-up of her pleasure reached its peak before a wave of release washed over her


    It was overwhelming for her, a mind-numbing experience as Maria let out a long, steamy moan before she felt a warm, enveloping sensation as Ricky''s release clouded her being,


    A slight shiver resounded from Maria upon feeling Ricky''s cock filling her womb with a hot white milky substance, completely flooding in its entirety.


    Maria, trying to regain her composure from the overwhelming experience, found herself losing herself to the pleasure.


    She melted under Ricky''s touch, unable to resist the deep, satisfying sensations that washed over her, surrendering completely to his hold.


    Ricky held her tightly, his own groans blending with her moans as he emptied himself inside her.


    He felt Maria''s walls contracting around him, milking out every last drop of his release as he willingly gave it all to her.


    Continuing to hold her tightly even after finishing, Ricky''s breath came in heavy pants as he whispered words of comfort and encouragement in her ear, his voice soothing and reassuring while still filling her up completely.


    For Maria, the world seemed to blur, her senses focused solely on the man holding her and the new, incredible sensations he had awakened within her.


    And in that moment, despite the pain and the tears, she felt a profound bond forming between them, one that would forever change their lives before they drifted off into a serene sleep within each other''s hold.


    *Ding*


    [Mission Received ''Maria Profaci'']


    Difficulty: Hard


    Description: Although Joe Profaci is inclined for you as a marriage candidate for his cherished niece, he will absolutely chase you to the ends of earth to chop you into little pieces if you actually end up completing this mission without marrying Maria.


    Objective: Impregnant Maria Profaci as you avoid the constant helicopter parenting of the notorious mafia boss Joe Profaci


    Main Mission Reward: 100,000 IP


    Impregnante Maria Once:


    Rewards: 200 Gacha or The choice of Maria''s skills


    Impregnate Maria Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnante Maria in her childhood home(Complete)


    Reward: Epic Skill Coupon


    Impregnante Maria before marrying her(Complete)


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Impregnate Maria while Joe Profaci is in the vicinity(Complete)


    Reward: +10 Vitality


    Bonus Missions:


    Cum in union with Maria on her first time(Complete)


    Reward: 50 Gacha


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ''Choose Gacha and accept rewards.''

 Chapter 67 - 66: A Broken Nature

    Chapter 67: Chapter 66: A Broken Nature


    Chapter:


    The next day,


    "Ricky."


    "Ricky!"


    "Hmmmmm?" Ricky hummed awake, his voice filled with confusion after being stirred from his slumber.


    Maria''s urgent whispers pierced through the fog of his drowsiness, tugging his attention toward her.


    He blinked, his vision settling on her, a slow smile spreading across his face as he took in the serene beauty of her naked body, bathed in the soft morning light.


    "Hey gorgeous." Ricky leaned in, pressing a soft kiss against her neck, a smile playing on his lips.


    But before he could savor the moment, she shoved him off, her sudden resistance catching him by surprise.


    "You need to leave, they''ll kill you." Maria whispered, fear flickering in her eyes as she glanced at Ricky.


    He opened his mouth to retort but stopped, his expression softening into a smile instead.


    Leaning down, he kissed her forehead gently, then began to gather his clothes scattered across the floor and as he dressed, he turned back to her, that same reassuring smile lingering on his face.


    "You know I''m coming back for you, right?" Ricky asked, his voice steady with reassurance.


    Maria''s worried expression softened as a warm smile spread across her face, her eyes holding onto his promise.


    "I know."


    Sneaking out of the house, Ricky moved carefully, every step measured to ensure no one spotted him.


    Once he reached a safe distance, he exhaled in relief, glancing around to confirm he was alone.


    With a smirk, he pulled out the systems to see a set of coupons, inspecting his Legendary and Epic Coupon.


    ''Open coupons.''


    *DING*


    Received:


    (Epic Skill) Holy Aura: You will be blessed with a holy aura that will bless it so that once this skill is activated, it will poison all those impure around you.


    (Legendary Item) Weapon Upgrade Ticket: Enhances any one of your items from Epic grade to the Legendary grade. Cannot be used on legendary and above items .


    Ricky''s eyes gleamed with a greedy smile as he glanced at the 425 gacha tickets in his inventory.


    The anticipation buzzed through him, but first, he reached for a single ticket and summoned his solar flame bow.


    The weapon appeared in his grip, radiant with heat, its ethereal flames flickering like it was alive as his smile widened, savoring the power in his hands.


    "Upgrade."


    A brilliant light flared as the ticket dissolved into the solar flame bow, fusing with it in a radiant burst.


    Ricky''s heart raced as the familiar weapon, one he had wielded countless times, began to shift in his hands.


    Its form twisted, reshaping itself with a crackling energy, the once steady flames now spiraling with newfound intensity.


    The bow seemed to pulse, alive with power, as its very nature transformed before his eyes.


    Luminary Sunfire Bow: Crafted from the sacred wood of the Celestial Ember Tree, the Luminary Sunfire Bow transcends its predecessor with enhanced radiance and mystical prowess. This legendary bow channels the power of the sun itself, imbuing its arrows with ethereal flames that burn brighter and hotter than ever before.


    Upgrades:


    Celestial Essence Infusion: The bowstring is now infused with the essence of celestial energy, allowing for more precise and devastating shots. Each arrow resonates with the power of the sun, gaining increased accuracy and speed.


    Aegis Solarium Coating: The bow''s surface is coated with Aegis Solarium, a rare substance forged in the heart of a solar forge. This not only enhances the bow''s durability but also adds a shimmering, protective aura that repels dark forces.


    Nova Cascade Quiver: Integrated seamlessly into the bow, this enchanted quiver channels a continuous flow of miniature solar flares. As the archer draws back the string, the bow absorbs the radiant energy and transfers it to the arrows. With each pull, the stored arrows become charged with this solar essence, ensuring that every shot ignites into a brilliant cascade of solar flames upon release.


    Cleansing Sunlight Aura: The bow emits a soothing aura of cleansing sunlight, purifying the surroundings and providing a sense of rejuvenation to the wielder. This aura also weakens shadowy creatures and enhances the bow''s potency against the forces of darkness. Solar


    Convergence Mastery: Mastering the Solar Convergence technique, the archer gains the ability to focus solar energy into a single, ultra-powerful arrow. This charged shot possesses unparalleled destructive force, capable of piercing through even the toughest magical barriers.


    The bow illuminated with a pure, radiant light, almost blinding in its brilliance, before it cooled into an ethereal glow.


    The legendary weapon pulsated in Ricky''s hand as he gripped it tightly, his gaze fixed on a nearby abandoned building.


    Walking toward the target with a mix of excitement and curiosity, Ricky approached with a slight frown of confusion.


    He then drew back the glowing bowstring, his confusion fading as he felt the energy begin to gather.


    The bowstring moved smoothly under his fingers, and with each inch he pulled back, the arrow grew brighter and more defined.


    The radiant energy coalesced, forming a shimmering arrow that intensified with every centimeter, its shape becoming clearer and more powerful as he continued.


    As Ricky released the string, the arrow flew with explosive force, slamming into the nearby wall.


    The impact was immediate and devastating, sending debris flying and causing the wall to shatter under the tremendous power.


    The arrow''s solar flames greedily spread, consuming the wall and reducing it to nothingness in a blaze of fiery destruction.


    ''Holy sh*t.'' Ricky looked at this devastating weapon in his hands, the mere power of this weapon pulsating in his mind.


    "Alexander is going to sh*t his pants when he sees this." Ricky laughed, a satisfied grin spreading across his face as he imagined the look on that gerbil''s face.


    He slipped the bow back into his inventory before rubbing his hands together, he summoned his inner gambler.


    A blue, luminous wheel materialized before him, spinning with a mesmerizing glow that drew his gaze.


    The wheel''s captivating light danced, casting an enchanting aura as it turned, promising the excitement of chance and fortune.


    ''Alright, let''s hope all that hoarding wasn''t for nothing.''


    *DING*


    (Mythical Item) Aetherial Nexus Core: Forged in the heart of a cosmic convergence, the Aetherial Nexus Core is a legendary magic core that serves as a conduit to the very fabric of the arcane. When harnessed by a skilled practitioner, it grants the extraordinary ability to wield magic with unprecedented mastery. Legends tell of the convergence of multiple magical dimensions, birthing this core and infusing it with the essence of pure arcane potential.


    Properties:


    Arcane Attunement: Upon touching the Aetherial Nexus Core, the user becomes attuned to the vast reservoirs of magical energy in the surrounding environment, gaining an innate understanding of different magical disciplines.


    Mana Confluence: The core acts as a focal point for mana and combines with your own heart, absorbing ambient magical energies and storing them within its crystalline structure. The user can tap into this reserve to amplify their magical abilities.


    Elemental Affinity: The core adapts to the user''s magical preferences, enhancing their affinity with specific elements, whether it be fire, water, earth, air, or a combination thereof.


    Arcane Augmentation: Spells cast through the Aetherial Nexus Core are augmented, displaying increased potency, range, and precision. The core refines the user''s magical gestures and incantations.


    Riftwalker''s Veil: By channeling the core''s power, the user gains the ability to briefly step between dimensions, allowing for strategic maneuvers and escaping dire situations.


    The Legend Behind The Aetherial Nexus Core: Whispers of the Aetherial Nexus Core have echoed through arcane chronicles, with mages and scholars seeking the legendary item to unlock the pinnacle of magical prowess. It is said that the core holds the key to the convergence of all magical realms, offering a glimpse into the vast tapestry of arcane knowledge. However, its location remains elusive, often appearing only in times of great magical significance, waiting for a worthy mage to embrace the responsibility of wielding its cosmic power.


    (Legendary Item) Vorpal Mirror Shard - Dimensional Reflector: This small, iridescent shard, hailing from a mirror shattered in the realm between dimensions, possesses the power to create a one-time dimensional reflection. When activated, it creates a mirror image of the bearer, mirroring their every action and absorbing all damage directed at them. This mirror doppelganger lasts for a short duration, acting as a decoy and absorbing a predetermined amount of harm before dissipating. The shard then crumbles into fine, sparkling dust, returning to the fractured dimension from whence it came.


    (Legendary Item) Vial of Eternal Essence: Derived from the legendary Wellspring of Eternity, the elixir contained in this vial offers a remarkable communion with the essence of existence. Upon consumption, it provides a temporary sense of invigoration, accelerated recuperation, and a heightened awareness of surroundings. This vial is pursued by those seeking a reprieve from the inexorable passage of time, desiring a taste of enduring vitality though it cannot revive the dead.


    Attributes:


    Fleeting Invigoration: Temporarily enhances resilience and speeds up recovery.


    Clarity of Being: Augments perception and sharpens awareness.


    Vitality Surge: Refreshes stamina and revives the body.


    (Legendary Item) Eldritch Call: A forbidden and vastly dangerous whistle that serves as a one time use item. Its call causes one eldritch being to your aid and will follow your entire wish for exactly thirty seconds; however if the whistle is not destroyed after the thirty seconds, the being gains an eternal foothold into your realm.


    (Legendary Item) Seeker''s Orb: This orb will reveal the whereabouts of any being with a single piece of hair, drop of blood, or anything that might pertain to the being''s anatomy.


    (Legendary Armor) Gauntlets of the Damned: Forged in the accursed forges of forbidden realms, the Gauntlets of the Damned are a sinister creation with a dark and ominous history. Infused with the essence of malevolence and bound by eldritch curses, these legendary gauntlets are both feared and coveted by those who seek power at any cost. Wielding the Gauntlets of the Damned, the chosen bearer walks a treacherous path, harnessing the malevolent energies within to achieve their dark ambitions. Legends speak of those who, driven by insatiable desires, sought the power of the Gauntlets of the Damned, only to succumb to the alluring whispers of the abyss.


    Powers and Abilities:


    Cursed Grasp: The gauntlets instill a chilling touch, capable of draining the life force from foes upon contact. This stolen vitality bolsters the wearer''s own strength and resilience Temporarily.


    Netherfire Infusion: The gauntlets can channel otherworldly flames that burn with an unholy intensity. This eldritch fire not only damages enemies but also leaves lingering curses, sapping the willpower of those touched by its infernal blaze. Spectral Wield: The wearer gains the ability to summon and control spectral entities to aid in battle. These ghostly allies obey the commands of the gauntlet''s master, haunting and tormenting enemies on the battlefield.


    Dreadful Resilience: The gauntlets confer a dark resilience, allowing the wearer to endure and resist attacks that would break the will of lesser beings. The more the wearer faces adversity, the stronger their connection to the cursed power of the gauntlets becomes.


    Eclipse''s Embrace: In moments of dire need, the gauntlets can shroud the wearer in an impenetrable darkness, rendering them nearly invisible and allowing for swift and silent movements. This shadowy cloak enhances stealth and surprise in combat.


    (Legendary Skill) Emperor Eye: A masterstroke of sensory supremacy, formerly used by the basketball genius Akashi''s, this ability transcends the ordinary, endowing him with an unparalleled level of perceptual finesse. This extraordinary ability grants the user the extraordinary power to scrutinize not only the movements but the very essence of his opponents'' bodies with meticulous precision, leaving no detail hidden from his keen gaze.


    (Epic Skill) Persuasion Aura: Emitting an aura that encourages positive attitudes and cooperation.


    (Epic Skill) Psychic Healing: Using psychic energy to accelerate natural healing processes without harm.


    (Epic Skill) Advanced First Aid: Knowledge of semi complex medical procedures can be invaluable in emergencies. This skill can save lives and reduce the severity of injuries.


    (Epic Skill) Time-Loop Awareness: Sensing and understanding temporal loops without causing harm.


    (Epic Item) Diary Of A Tortured Soul: The diary of a man who lived nothing but a life of pain as he endlessly set out for a better life.


    (Epic Weapon) Dagger of Venom: A small, unassuming dagger that injects a deadly poison into its target with a single scratch.


    (Epic Item) Spectral Lantern: This lantern reveals hidden spirits and ghosts, making them visible to the bearer.


    (Epic Weapon) Arrow of Fate: Once fired, this arrow unerringly finds its target, guided by fate itself.


    (Epic Item) Spider''s Thread: A deadly poison used by the Phantom Troupe, causing excruciating pain and leading to death if not treated promptly. X 13


    (Epic Item) Lunar Shard Talisman: Activating this talisman temporarily grants the user heightened senses and agility, mimicking the grace and speed of a moonlit dance. The talisman''s glow fades after one use, leaving behind only a cold, dull rock.


    (Epic Item) Mirage Stone: Throwing this small, shimmering stone creates a brief but convincing illusion of the user and their surroundings, perfect for misdirection.


    (Epic Item) Ethereal Veil Scroll: Unfurling this scroll envelops the user in a cloak of invisibility, allowing them to move unseen for a limited time. The scroll disintegrates after use, leaving no trace.


    (Rare Item) Steel Point Pens: Crafted by the finest blacksmith in the world of Forchheim. These pens were crafted in a world entirely populated by blacksmiths for blacksmiths and these one hundred pens were all crafted in a single day by an aspiring blacksmith who sought to prove himself. X 100


    (Uncommon Item) Wooden Chess Board Case: A wooden case filled with a handcrafted chessboard and pieces. X 20


    (Uncommon item) Antique Compass: A beautifully crafted compass from the 19th century, complete with intricate engravings. X 35


    (Uncommon Item) Crystal-Crafted Music Box: A delicately designed music box made from fine crystals, playing a soothing melody when opened. X 20


    (Uncommon Item) Edible Insects Sampler: A selection of edible insects in various flavors, suitable for adventurous food enthusiasts. X 15


    (Common Item) Rolls of Charmin Ultra Strong Soft Toilet Rolls: A roll of four ply toilet paper that feels like you''re wiping your ass with a cloud. X 67


    (Common Item) Traveler''s Satchel: A sturdy leather bag with numerous compartments and a comfortable strap, ideal for carrying essentials on the go. X 60


    (Common Item) Sturdy Travel Flask: A durable flask made from polished steel, perfect for keeping beverages hot or cold during long journeys. X 44


    (Common Item) Pair of fingerless Biker gloves: Made for bikers who just wanted to ride a Harley. X 33


    An overwhelming tsunami of information flooded Ricky''s enhanced vision as he scanned the array of skills.


    Though he skimmed through them, it felt as though he could perceive every detail with perfect clarity.


    His gaze lingered on the Vial of Eternal Essence, even in the presence of his first Mythical item, he was unable to pull away from its meaning.


    A broad smile spread across his face, a sense of triumph washing over him as if he had finally caught a break.


    Energized by the discovery, he hurried away, eager to put this into use as the system notifications that began to appear before him.


    [''Psychic Healing'' is compatible with your X-Gene, would you like to merge this into your X-Gene?]


    [The skills ''Holy Aura'' and ''Persuasion Aura'' are compatible, would you like to merge these two skills?]


    [Yes/No]


    ''Yeah, whatever.''


    *DING*


    (X-Gene) Pyro-Psionic Fusion:


    Fusion Manifestation and Shape Manipulation: Ricky can materialize a harmonious blend of psychic energy and fire into solid, intricate constructs or powerful weapons. He can manipulate their shape, size, and complexity, showcasing a seamless integration of creativity and control. These constructs range from simple tools to complex machinery, reflecting his mastery of both psychic and pyrokinetic powers.


    Durability and Offensive Capabilities: The constructs Ricky creates are exceptionally durable, capable of withstanding significant force and damage. Infused with both psychic and fiery energy, they serve as potent offensive tools. Ricky can generate and control projectiles that combine the dynamic nature of psychic force with the destructive power of controlled fire, providing him with versatile and powerful ranged attacks.


    Defensive Capabilities and Dual Mobility: Ricky projects invisible force fields from his mind, forming protective barriers, shields, or entire domes. These force fields are highly durable, blocking telekinesis, preventing mental intrusion, and shielding against various physical and energy-based attacks. Additionally, Ricky can ride on streams of controlled fire or navigate on his psychic force fields, granting him both aerial mobility and maneuverability in battle.


    Psionic Infusion and Healing: Ricky seamlessly infuses his constructs and force fields with emotions or thoughts, enhancing their effectiveness against specific adversaries or situations. He can also use his psychic energy to accelerate natural healing processes, both for himself and others, without causing harm. This fusion of psychic and fiery energy allows him to heal injuries and bolster his combat effectiveness, making him a versatile and strategic combatant.


    Mental Control: Ricky''s mental control over his creations allows for dynamic adaptation, making him a formidable opponent who can leverage the combined powers of psychic energy and fire to gain the upper hand in any confrontation.


    (Legendary Skill) Radiant Harmony Aura: When activated, this skill envelops you in a radiant aura that simultaneously purifies the impure and inspires cooperation among allies.


    Purification Blessing: The Holy Aura aspect of this skill purges the surroundings of impurities. Those with malevolent intentions or impure motives will be affected, experiencing a weakening effect akin to poison. This effect serves as a deterrent to those who harbor negativity.


    Inspiring Cooperation: The Persuasion Aura aspect radiates a compelling energy that fosters positive attitudes and cooperation. Allies within the aura''s range will feel a heightened sense of unity and teamwork. This can enhance strategic coordination in battles and promote harmony in any social or diplomatic situation.


    Ricky didn''t gaze at the screen but simply ran forward as he dashed throughout the streets with the vial in his hand.


    Meanwhile at the Brooklyn Hospital,


    The light poured through the open window, casting a gentle glow across the room. Eddy''s once-chaotic space, filled with an assortment of flowers and get-well gifts, was now eerily immaculate.


    The bed, which had been a tangle of sheets, was meticulously made, the crisp linens from Ricky smoothing out like a polished surface.


    Eddy''s fingers skimmed the sheets, smoothing out every crease as though their imperfections were a grave offense as he sat back in his chair, surveying the result of his careful efforts.


    Eddy glanced around the spotless room and adjusted the two letters placed neatly by his side. Each movement was deliberate, a final act of order before the end.


    He painstakingly maneuvered himself and the chair towards the table, tucking it away to restore the room to its pristine state.


    Once everything was as it was when he first entered, Eddy made his way to the window with each action an tireless effort in itself.


    Struggling but determined, he finally reached the window ledge where he often gazed out at the bustling city below.


    The world continued its ceaseless motion, indifferent to him as he stared down at the myriad faces of people moving about their lives below.


    Each individual walked with purpose, absorbed in their own routines and pursuing their own dreams.


    However, Eddy had lost that spark.


    The very thing that had once made him smile with purpose had slipped away, drowned by the arrival of his useless legs.


    His dreams had vanished, leaving him feeling like half a man as he was once seen as a source of strength.


    Now he was only defined by his disability, a cripple rather than the muscle he had once aspired to be.


    Even when he was surrounded by people, Eddy felt an overwhelming sense of isolation.


    No one around him seemed to grasp the depth of his hollow feeling, and it drove him to the very edge of his own despair, even as people reached out in genuine attempts to help.


    Countless people continued to extend their help, setting aside their own desires to be close to his broken self.


    What wounded him the most was witnessing the immense sacrifices his brother, Frank, made to ensure his well-being.


    The sight of Frank''s own deterioration, borne from his tireless efforts, only deepened Eddy''s anguish, breaking him further as he watched the toll it took on his beloved brother.


    So he had tried to push everyone away, including Frank, convincing himself that if he were gone, the world would be better off.


    In his tormented mind, this belief took root, growing stronger with each attempt to isolate himself from those who cared.


    But despite his efforts to push them away, they persisted in their attempts to stay by his side.


    Their unwavering presence, though meant to offer support, only drove him deeper into his own despair, amplifying the sense of isolation he felt.


    It was a vicious and painful cycle that Eddy resolved to end on his own. A


    Acknowledging the wrongness of his decision, he felt he could no longer endure the relentless torment.


    Desperate for release, he chose to break free from the cycle, even as he grappled with the guilt of his choice.


    Yet, even this wouldn''t be his greatest sin as his deepest regret would be the inability to face those who truly cared for him and offer them the apology they deserved.


    Despite this, for once, Eddy longed to be free again, driven by a desperate need for release from his own suffering.


    Grabbing the sheets he had arrived at the hospital with, Eddy wrapped them around his neck.


    These sheets, the very same ones he had arrived at the hospital with, would now be the ones with which he departed from this world.


    Eddy took one last, lingering look at the vibrant city below as a serene smile spread across his face as he closed his eyes, embracing a profound sense of relief that suddenly washed over him.


    Gently, he tilted his body forward, the sheets trailing behind him like a shroud.


    As he fell from the window, the sheets fluttered in the breeze, and in that fleeting moment, Eddy experienced an almost euphoric liberation, soaring through the sky on his final flight.


    *CRACK*


    Eddy''s neck snapped with a sickening crack as the sheets tightened brutally around it, the force of the fall wrenching his head at an unnatural angle.


    His final breath came in a gurgling, agonized rasp as his body convulsed violently, eyes bulging in a grotesque display of sudden death.


    The sheets that had once promised Eddy liberation now grotesquely displayed his lifeless body, dangling from the window in a sickening spectacle.


    His form swayed back and forth with a disturbing rhythm, the fabric fluttering in the breeze as if mocking the freedom he sought.


    Gradually, the motion slowed, and his body came to a haunting stillness.


    Screams of horror echoed through the air, a tidal wave of shock and disbelief, but one individual stood frozen from the chilling sight, their face pale and eyes wide with a mix of terror and paralysis.


    "Eddy?" Ricky''s voice trembled with incredulity as a haunting memory surfaced.


    As Ricky''s gaze fell upon Eddy''s lifeless body, a figure emerged from the deepest depths of his mind, silhouetted against the grim scene.


    The figure hung with a rope tied around his neck with a bright, unsettling smile and open arms, an image so eerily serene it made Ricky''s knees buckle.


    "AHHHHHHHHHH!" A shriek pierced the air, sending a wave of panic through the crowd as people scattered in horror.


    Meanwhile, Ricky stood rooted to the spot, his body frozen in shock, unable to move or tear his eyes away from the nightmarish scene before him.


    Instead of stepping forward, Ricky instinctively took a step back, unable to confront the harrowing sight before him.


    Surrendering to his old instincts, Ricky fled from the grim reality with a frantic urgency, desperate to escape the crushing weight of what he had just seen.


    At his lowest point, he turned to the one constant solace in his life: alcohol.


    The flask of bourbon he always carried, a symbol of his escape from life''s harshness, found its way into his hand.


    This flask had been his refuge whenever life became unbearable, nurturing his fractured spirit in its darkest moments.


    Raising the flask to his lips, Ricky hoped to drown his pain and find release from the suffocating reality.


    Yet, as he sipped the bourbon, expecting its familiar burn to scorch away his troubles, he was met with a taste that was unexpectedly rancid, rotten.


    The once-sweet relief now tasted putrid, and the liquid felt like a vile sludge as it forced its way down his throat, festering in his gut.


    *BLERGH*


    In a shocking twist of fate, Ricky''s attempt to escape reality backfired and instead of sinking into a drunken stupor, he violently vomited, expelling the bourbon that had promised him solace.


    The once-sweet escape now lay in a puddle on the ground, and Ricky was still left shattered, starkly sober and entirely disoriented.


    The bitter realization of his failure to find refuge left him even more devastated, unable to numb the crushing reality he faced.


    ''What the f*ck?'' Ricky wiped his mouth and discarded the flask as if it had turned rancid.


    In his wrecked state, he frantically sought out every type of alcohol he could find, but each one tasted spoiled and left his body in a grotesque state.


    Throughout the day, he couldn''t even manage to become buzzed; instead, he spent the time vomiting more than he ingested.


    The relentless cycle of sickness forced him to confront his suffering head-on, stripped of the numbing escape he had sought.


    In the dead of night, Abraham ventured into a dimly lit back alley and found Ricky with his head buried in his hands, his hollow gaze reflecting profound despair.


    Abraham looked down at him with a mix of disappointment and concern, while Ricky looked up in confused bewilderment.


    Having learned of the situation through the bar, Abraham had sought out Ricky, expecting to find him merely diminished. Instead, he was met with the sight of Ricky completely shattered.


    "Is this how you react in the face of tragedy?" Abraham spoke, his words eliciting a loud, derisive scoff from Ricky.


    "Yeah, well, at least I''m not some old man damned for purgatory." Ricky rubbed his forehead wearily as Abraham calmly pulled out a cigarette and lit it, the soft glow of the ember casting a brief, flickering light in the dark alley.


    "Jesus." Abraham sighed deeply, taking a slow puff from his cigarette as he watched Ricky''s display of self-pity unfold before him.


    "Listen Ricky death-"


    "Shut up, just shut up." Ricky pounded his head against the wall, his gaze drifting upward toward the night sky.


    "I f*cking had it." Ricky muttered, his voice cracking with raw emotion as his fist tightened.


    "I had a way to help him, but I was too late and there''s nothing you can say that''ll make me feel even a little bit better." Ricky almost laughed out, literally possessing the cure, the means to save Eddy, but he hadn''t reached him in time.


    The realization that he had failed to act swiftly enough only drove him deeper into the abyss of his own despair.


    "Listen Ricky death-" Abraham felt a compulsion to say something, to offer words of solace, but Ricky wasn''t in the mood for any advice.


    "Shut up, just shut up." Ricky pounded his head against the wall, his gaze drifting upward toward the night sky.


    Ricky didn''t want to hear any resolution nor did he want to face them, all he wanted to do was simply gaze up at the moon.


    *Sigh*


    "Whatever." Abraham flicked the cigarette to the side while walking out of the alley before walking back into the bar.


    "You know where to find me."


    The Next Day,


    Ricky awoke in the same alley, disoriented and groggy and as he wobbled to his feet, then began to walk aimlessly.


    Ricky walked and walked, his steps eventually leading him back to the house and as he pushed open the door, he was met with the sight of Lucky waiting for him, a stoic presence in the dimly lit entryway.


    "I know-"


    Ricky raised his hand in a weak gesture, but Lucky stepped forward and pulled him into a tight embrace.


    "It ain''t your fault Ricky, it ain''t your fault." Lucky patted Ricky''s back, fully aware that Ricky would blame himself for everything.


    As Lucky offered silent support, Ricky repeatedly thumped his head against his father''s shoulder, a futile gesture of frustration and anguish.


    "I was right there-"


    "I know." Lucky already understood as they pulled apart, and Ricky lifted his gaze while rubbing his eyes.


    "When is the funeral?" Ricky asked his question, and Lucky''s response was to bite his lip, struggling to find the right words.


    "There will not be a funeral for Eddy-"


    "W-Why not?" Ricky''s expression turned incredulous, as if he thought this was some sort of cruel joke and Lucky sighed deeply, the weight of the situation clear in his resignation.


    "Eddy killed himself and by catholic law, he can not have a catholic funeral-" Lucky revealed, trying to explain to the distraught Ricky who couldn''t even believe what he was hearing form him.


    "So we''re not going to have one at all!" Ricky shouted in disbelief, a bitter laugh escaping him as he faced yet another set of seemingly absurd rules.


    "Slick, I know it''s a lot but right now we need to figure out what we''re going to do-"


    "But Eddy-"


    "IS GONE!" Lucky cut through Ricky''s frustration with a loud, commanding yell, abruptly silencing him and drawing his focus.


    "YOU THINK YOUR THE ONLY ONE SADDENED BY THE LOSS OF A FRIEND?" Lucky shoved Ricky gently, a gesture that spoke volumes. In that moment, it became clear to Ricky that Lucky was grappling with a similar struggle yet one was looking forward.


    "Do you think I don''t want to drown myself in wine and forget about everything? Well, I can''t cause right now the Luciano family is in trouble and I don''t need a whining sissy, but my son to help me figure out what to do." Lucky took a deep breath to steady himself, and Ricky, recognizing the need for calm, nodded in agreement.


    Together, they headed toward the kitchen table, where they could talk things through in a more grounded setting.


    "How''s the situation?" Ricky asked, smoothing back his disheveled hair with a restless hand..


    "The other families are preparing for a war and are eyeing us in every street, we have the numbers but we''re completely surrounded." Lucky massaged his forehead in frustration, while Ricky leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling as his mind seemed far away, lost in the swirl of his own thoughts.


    "Slick, there are two ways we can handle this," Lucky began, already mapping a course that spit into two decisions.


    "First, we go to war, and I make you my underboss. Or, second, you leave for Sicily and-"


    "What if I can get Eddy a catholic funeral?" Ricky interrupted, a thought striking him as he spoke which only served to disappoint his adoptive father.


    Lucky sighed heavily and leaned back in his chair, the weight of the decision clearly taking its toll on him.


    "What?" Ricky asked, puzzled by the expression on Lucky''s face that was clearly a large frown..


    "Did you not realize my earlier words, it''s against catholic law." Lucky cycled back to his earlier words, attempting to explain himself while his eyebrow twitched with irritation.


    "I got that, but what if I could change the church''s mind-" Ricky tried to explain, knowing that he was in the church''s good graces which only made Lucky laugh.


    "So you want to leave?"Lucky wiped his mouth with a disbelieving smile, almost unable to believe what he was hearing.


    "Because I-"


    "Is this really about Eddy, Slick?" Lucky pointed at Ricky with an accusatory gaze, his eyes sharp and filled with unspoken frustration.


    "What are you talking about?" Ricky laughed out, thinking Lucky was spewing nonsense.


    "Because to me, it just seems like you''re trying to run away from your problems again like you always do." Lucky''s temper flared, and he started picking a fight with Ricky, who frowned in response, his frustration evident.


    "How am I-"


    "Just go." Lucky waved Ricky away, his frustration palpable as he struggled to manage the crisis within the family.


    "Leave or stay, but right now, I just can''t deal with this, with you." Lucky pointed at Ricky, treating him as a separate, pressing issue as his gesture underscored the severity of Ricky''s situation in contrast to the other crises at hand.


    "Either way, I''ll get your back because I love ya kid, but it''s time for you to grow up and out of this troupe of you running away from your problems." Lucky walked away, his frustration evident in his retreat.


    Ricky, laughing sarcastically, followed after him, the sound of his mockery echoing through the room as he trailed behind.


    "So you want me to leave-" Ricky asked out, spreading his arms only for Lucky to turn around and face him head on.


    "I want you to be the man I know you can be, not the f*cking coward in front of me right now." Lucky''s words struck a deep chord, eliciting a bitter scoff from Ricky.


    "HOW AM I A COWARD, I''VE DONE EVERYTHING YOU''VE ASKED OF ME-"


    "YET WHENEVER LIFE GETS TOUGH, YOU JUST RUN AWAY!" Lucky yelled back at Ricky, causing him to immediately close his mouth.


    Lucky took a deep breath, regaining his bearings before looking at him with a mixture of sadness and disappointment.


    "It ain''t about doing what''s asked of you, it''s about standing your ground when life gets tough, that''s what it means to be a man, to lead." Lucky looked at Ricky, seeing him falling apart and finally understanding that he couldn''t pick up the pieces.


    "I thought you''d grow out of whatever this is after Rocco and a little guidance, but I was wrong." Lucky gripped his cane tightly, his gaze fixed in disappointment.


    "What happened to you, Ricky?" Lucky said, his voice heavy as he really spoke from the heart when looking at Ricky.


    "What happened before I adopted you?" Lucky asked, his voice tinged with anguish.


    "What went wrong somewhere along the line that led you off the rails and left you stuck where you are now?" Lucky grabbed his forehead, a distressed smile touching his lips as he reflected on how much he had tried to help Ricky and guide him, only to see him remain trapped in his struggles.


    "You just won''t grow, almost like you can''t." Lucky said, his voice filled with frustration.


    "I''ve tried everything to be there for you, but that thing inside you is rotting you to your very core." Lucky walked up to Ricky, looking down at him with a clearly hurt expression.


    "In all this time I''ve known you, everything around you has changed yet you haven''t grown out of it, you''re still the same and wherever you get close, you just revert back." Lucky saw all of it firsthand, he saw Ricky make efforts to really change but whenever he reached the tipping point, he fell backwards.


    "I don''t know what to do." Lucky admitted, his voice heavy with defeat.


    "I thought you were supposed to be the roots of this family, but right now, you''re just a leaf blowing in the wind." Lucky turned away after that, his back a picture of weary resignation.


    "When you''re ready, come back to the Luciano family. There will always be a place for you, but until then it''s best if you leave." Lucky, for the first time since he adopted Ricky, gave him the cold shoulder as he essentially threw him out.


    Ricky was left speechless, the sting of Lucky''s resignation cutting deeper than even Profaci''s harshest words.


    It wasn''t just that Lucky had given up on him; it was the way Lucky framed it as his own failure rather than blaming him.


    Ricky shook his head, turned on his heel, and began to walk upstairs and as he reached the top, he found Alexander, Chester, and Henry waiting for him.


    Without a word, Ricky swiped Alexander from the table and gestured for Chester and Henry to follow him.


    Lucky didn''t stop Ricky; he simply watched as Ricky walked out of the house without even turning back to say goodbye, leaving the man to sigh once again in resignation.


    "Young Ricky, we have heard about your falling comrade and-"


    "It''s fine, we''ll get him the proper funeral he needs." Ricky turned to Alexander, who started to speak but fell silent when he saw Chester shaking his head.


    Henry hovered nearby, a tense presence in the air and Ricky, with a determined stride, made his way toward the tavern.


    He pushed open the door to find Abraham waiting at the end of the bar, his posture rigid and expectant.


    "Can I get Eddy to have a catholic funeral?" Ricky called out to Abraham, but Abraham could only respond with a deadpan gaze as he struggled to find the right words, only to close his mouth in frustrated silence.


    "Are you already going senile, or is it that bush of ear hair?" Ricky quipped as he walked over to Abraham.


    "No, the kid killed himself and has committed a so-called ''eternal'' sin in the eyes of the church-" Abraham chuckled, knowing that lying to him wouldn''t do the old man any good right now.


    "Even if I become the black knight?" Ricky asked Abraham, who let out a small sigh as he set his drink down and turned his full attention to Ricky.


    "I''m not going to sit here and promise things that I know won''t come to pass," Abraham said, knowing they would never allow something like this to happen.


    "But if you''re wondering who could make that decision, it would be the high council of the Vatican. Yes, you could speak to them after you attain the position of the Black Knight." Abraham explained, carefully avoiding any confirmation of whether it would actually happen.


    "Then let''s go-"


    "I''ll be at the docks tomorrow, if you''re there you''re there, and if not then I''ll have to continue to be in this godforsaken rat hole of a city." Abraham downed his drink in one swift motion and then walked out of the tavern, leaving Ricky with his thoughts and the lingering echoes of his words.


    "Say your goodbyes or don''t, I don''t really care." Abraham offered his parting words, and as he left, Alexander crossed his arms..


    "What a poor elder he is, young Ricky it is good that you have actual role models to lean on."


    "What a poor elder he is, young Ricky it is good that you have actual role models to lean on."


    Alexander''s brow twitched as he glared viciously at Henry, who, in a tense effort to diffuse the situation, repeated his words.


    Meanwhile, the gerbil, trying to steady himself, focused on the breathing exercises Chester had taught him, his small frame trembling with the effort to calm himself down.


    "Allow us to give you your necessary time Ricky, we''ll be at the docks when you arrive tomorrow." Chester scooped up Alexander, his actions firm but gentle.


    Alexander, still visibly agitated, glanced at Ricky before giving a nod of acknowledgment.


    He then followed Chester out the door, leaving Ricky behind with a mix of unresolved tension and contemplation.


    Alone and with a few final goodbyes to deliver, Ricky made his way to a different house.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    When the door opened, Ricky was met with the unexpected sight of the last person anyone would have guessed he''d come to say goodbye to.


    "Ricky?" Ms. Collins looked at Ricky standing on her doorstep, her surprise evident.


    As she took in the sight of him, a flush of color spread across her face, hinting at a mix of emotions she wasn''t quite ready to reveal.


    "R-Ricky, I heard about Edward and I wanted to say-'''' Ms. Collins hesitated, her gaze flickering between Ricky and the door.


    Before she could speak, Ricky abruptly silenced her with a passionate kiss.


    His kiss was forceful, as if he was trying to pour all his unspoken emotions into that single moment as he reached behind her, gripping her firmly, and squeezed.


    She melted against him, overwhelmed as his touch more or less provoked such a spirling swirl of wetness.


    "Wait~" Ms. Collins tried to speak, but a moan escaped her lips instead, her voice silenced by the intensity of Ricky''s touch.


    It was a selfish decision, but among all the women he could have chosen, Ricky picked Ms. Collins, the one who held no emotional sway over him.


    He understood that seeing Maria or Alina might lead him to act recklessly or stay when he needed to leave, so he sought out the one who would let him lose himself completely, free from any emotional ties.


    With a forceful slam of the door behind him, Ricky began to press more fervent kisses onto Ms. Collins, who struggled to regain her composure amidst the intensity of his touch.


    Ricky had meticulously guided her responses to each of his touches, a careful training that now bore fruit.


    As his fingers traced her skin, a flush of anticipation surged through her, a tangible heat that betrayed her excitement.


    Yet, beneath the surface of her growing desire, her mind grappled with a deep, unsettling awareness: they were on the brink of crossing a boundary that should remain sacred between teacher and student.


    "Ricky, we can''t-


    ''Wet to the touch.''


    "A-Ah~" Ms. Collin''s body trembled, her eyelids fluttering uncontrollably as a rush of warmth and desire spread through her.


    As her legs grew weak and wobbly, Ricky lifted her into a passionate kiss and in that moment, all the rationality and moral constraints of their forbidden relationship melted away, overshadowed by the overpowering force of their mutual desire.


    "Where''s your bedroom Ms. Collins." Ricky broke the kiss, his breath coming in ragged whispers.


    Ms. Collins looked up at him with eyes full of longing, her worries dissolving as she surrendered to the overwhelming need she had been holding back.


    "Tonight, call me Jennifer."


    Author''s Note: I''ve been kinda busy and haven''t really been checking comments as of late so I''ll probably do it either tommorrow or like friday.

 Chapter 68 - 67: After School Special (R18)

    Chapter 68: Chapter 67: After School Special (R18)


    Ricky''s hands roamed over Jennifer''s body, the world washing away under the curves of his busty teacher.


    "Ricky~" Jennifer moaned out after being picked up, grabbing Ricky''s head that kissed her neck tenderly.


    Throwing down against the bed, their clothes were ripped off in a frenzy, tossed aside in their urgency to feel skin against skin.


    Naked and unashamed, they locked eyes without a single care for the consequences that their entanglement might bring.


    Jennifer''s breath hitched as Ricky''s mouth claimed hers in a bruising kiss once more, their lips melding in a desperate clash of tongues.


    Ricky immediately pressed her down onto the bed, one of his hands traced up the length of her arms, before capturing her wrists and pinning them to the mattress.


    Jennifer''s body acted as a wave, pushing her body even closer to Ricky''s who firmly grabbed her hips with his other hand and squeezed.


    There was no gentleness, no tender exploration, but instead the violent and unapologetic thrust of Ricky plunging into her.


    The feeling of seismic, his entire length sliding into her warmth which wholly spread apart and ripped to take him all in.


    A rushing warmth coddled around Ricky''s cock, the wetness slobbering every inch of him with the tender and succulent nature that was Jennifer''s cave.


    "AHHHHHH~" Jennifers screamed out a moan of applause, her eyes shuddering upwards at finally quenching the ache that was burning a hole within her being that only Ricky could satisfy.


    Ricky didn''t even wait to relish in the feeling, pulling back out in a sudden action before ravaging her insides with a savage thrust of his cock.


    Jennifer felt her insides stir and melt to his forceful approach, her pussy turning into mush as she let out an exhilarated moan.


    "Oh god, oh god!" Jennifer screamed out, her body instinctively clinging onto him, nails digging into his shoulders in an effort to combat the strain of his deep and unbridled thrusts.


    *THWAP*


    "YES!"


    *THWAP*


    "YES!"


    *THWAP*


    "YES!"


    Their bodies slammed together, the sound a wet, sticky slap of skin meeting skin, amplified by Jennifer''s juices as their hips viciously collided against one another.


    Her moans of pleasure mixed with the rhythmic clinging and sliding of their flesh, as her insides yielded and melted around Ricky as he fully altered her insides to accommodate him.


    Sloppy and unrestrained, they continuously crashed into each other without any regard for anything that didn''t fulfill their own desires.


    They were both immensely selfish in their wants, yet blended together perfectly in the coupling that was Ricky''s cock and Jennifer''s wet pussy.


    "AH~" Jennifer let out a ragged moan as each thrust from Ricky''s cock drove into her aching pussy with immense force, causing her juices to spurt out in small bursts.


    Every collision of his cock with her wet, eager hole made her cry out in joy, sending out her appreciation towards Ricky.


    Each powerful thrust ignited a flood of pleasure that slowly relieved the tension that had been building within Jennifer, a sensation she had longed for and tried to replicate on her own.


    It was shameless, but Jennifer had been touching herself for weeks while trying to reclaim those sudden bursts of pleasure that Ricky always seemed to induce by his mere touch.


    ''It''s so wrong.''


    "AH~"


    ''So wrong.''


    "Then why do you feel so right!" Jennifer screamed out against her conscience, feeling Ricky''s cock wholly fill her up, the pleasure induced from it completely consuming her senses.


    It was mind-numbing for Jennifer, her cries and moans releasing everything she had kept buried for so long.


    All the while Ricky remained silent, his focus entirely on himself and his own needs as he channeled his pent-up tension into her, pummeling his hips into her folds while forcing her body to meet his in this brutal exchange.


    Pinned down and being rammed into, she welcomed him eagerly, surrendering to his efforts and taking him deeply.


    Her walls expanded and stretched around his cock, gaping with each thrust, yet her responses only seemed to encourage his aggressive movements.


    *THWAP*


    *THWAP*


    *THWAP*


    Jennifer''s body convulsed under the force of his thrusts, gasping for breath as Ricky''s relentless movements took the very air from her lungs.


    Each thrust reached deeper inside her, his tip knocking against her womb with every powerful motion that sent waves of guilty pleasure through the mind numbed Jennifer.


    It was consuming, his cock ravaging her senses into overdrive as she could only lay there and take it but it was merely internal, but physical as well.


    Even Ricky''s musk, the very scent that surrounded him, drove her wild as its aroma only drove her deeper into this seemingly unending void of lust.


    Yet even when she was being consumed, pinned down, and utterly brutalized by Ricky''s cock, Jennifer couldn''t help but scream out for more.


    The depraved way he was triaging her body started to actually intoxicate Jennifer, making her crave more and in a bold move, even when still pinned down by all facets of his body, she began to lick Ricky''s shoulders.


    Tasting the saltiness of his skin, relishing in the sweet and pleasant aroma of his body all the while his cock ruthlessly turned her pussy into paste.


    This degrading act from Jennifer only incited Ricky further, driving him to push himself even deeper into her.


    The continuous clapping of their bodies, colliding against one another, wholly filled the room, mingling with the musky scent of their passion.


    The windows began to fog over with the lustful condensation of their fervent exchange, only enhanced by the growing tirade that was each other''s moans and grunts.


    "Ah~"


    "F*ck~"


    "Ah~"


    "F*ck~"


    Jennifer''s moans mingled with Ricky''s deep, ragged breaths, unconsciously tuning even their voices within one another.


    Ricky tightly gripped Jennifer''s thigh, using her own limbs to secure his hold as he thrusted harder and deeper into her being.


    He kissed her with a hunger that bordered on desperation, his lips seeking hers as if trying to convey a thousand unspoken words of all the stress accumulated within his body.


    Jennifer responded eagerly, her own hands finally released from his locking grip as she started exploring Ricky''s back, feeling the muscles tense and release with each thrust sent into her body.


    They were both so internally frustrated and used each other as an outlet to release the intense feelings that had ached within them for so long.


    In the heat of the moment, they lost themselves to each other, the world outside their embrace fading into obscurity as the only thing that mattered was their entwining pleasure.


    Jennifer''s thoughts were a whirlwind of sensation, every touch, every movement, amplifying the ache between her thighs and the fire building in her belly.


    She surrendered to Ricky, her body and soul laid bare in the intimacy of their entwined passion.


    For Ricky, this was just physical; it was heartless but Jennifer''s desire wasn''t met with reciprocation but instead used to satisfy his own desire in this moment.


    He buried himself deep within Jennifer, feeling her warmth envelop him, her essence merging with his own.


    As they moved together, the room filled with the heady scent of their arousal, mingling with the musk of sweat and the sweet, intoxicating aroma of Jennifer''s desire.


    The air around them crackled with electricity, each touch sparking a new wave of sensation that left them breathless and yearning for more.


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    Jennifer cried out, while Ricky felt something swelling within him and despite the growing intensity, he was too focused on his own pleasure to hint at his approaching orgasm, simply increasing his pace.


    Barreling his cock into Jennifer, he felt her squeeze down on him with a tight grip, enveloping him in a relentless tightness.


    Gritting his teeth at the swelling within his balls, he maneuvered with a sudden burst of strength, thrusting forward with all his might.


    "AH~" Jennifer''s eyes widened as Ricky''s cock rammed not only at the entrance of her innermost sanctum but forcefully broke past its gate.


    In the next moment, cum exploded from his tip, his thick, slimy release splashing and swirling inside her womb, painting her entire room in an eggshell white.


    "Oh gawd~" Jennifer moaned out, feeling the sweet release of her own climax as she shivered in immense pleasure beneath Ricky who was constantly pumping her full of his seed.


    Spasming with pleasure, Jennifer''s eyes became teary and twitched with relief, a satisfied smile spreading across her face.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    Both of them let out huffed breaths, but Ricky was the first to stand up, looking down at Jennifer with a clearly unsatisfied gaze.


    Flipping Jennifer onto her stomach, Ricky raised her hips while she continued to huff wet breaths onto the bed sheets.


    *SLAP*


    "Haaaaaaaaaa~" Jennifer let out a long, drawn-out moan as she felt Ricky ram his cock back into the deepest depth of her being, stirring the mixing pot of his hot, soothing cum still swirling inside her womb.


    Jennifer''s plump ass jiggled with each of his thrusts, unable to arch her back as Ricky kept it pressed down.


    Raising his hips into a long, drawn-out arch, Ricky slammed his cock back into Jennifer, who let out another prolonged moan.


    Ricky continued his relentless treatment, thrusting with all his might into Jennifer while pinning her back down, making sure she had to take it all.


    However, she never complained, taking his cock without a word as she clutched the sheets tightly with her fingers, half of her disheveled face buried in the mattress as she let out muffled moans.


    *SLAP*


    *SLAP*


    *SLAP*


    Jennifer''s ass smacked against Ricky''s hips, creating a heavy sound that filled the room.


    Sprawled out on her bed, the vigorous and brutal exchange left her struggling with the strain on her sheets.


    She gnawed and gnashed at them, her fingernails tearing at the fabric''s edges as her teeth gripped them tightly while standing them with her drool.


    The wet mark clenched between her teeth stained further with every moan muffled beneath them.


    Ricky didn''t even seem to hear the sounds of him slamming against Jennifer''s body as all he saw was her back and felt the emptiness in his heart, trying his best to fill it with this momentary pleasure.


    Ricky''s cock drove forcefully into her pussy, droplets of her juices spraying out with each powerful thrust as he withdrew with a swift, deliberate motion, only to slam back in with relentless intensity,


    It was messy, Ricky''s relentless thrusts disregarding her pleasure as he used her pussy with disregard.


    His rough, unrestrained activity turned her hole into a gaping mess that was nothing more than an outlet to vent his stress.


    "AH~" Jennifer cried out, feeling her womb stretch even further under Ricky''s forceful might as she lay there, continuing to take it all.


    "AH~"


    "RICKY-AH~"


    "RICKY-"


    Ricky didn''t wait to hear what Jennifer wanted to say; instead of listening, he pressed her face down onto the very sheets she had torn up earlier.


    Muffled moans rang out as Ricky drove his cock deeper into her pussy, desperately seeking any sensation while tightening his hold on her waist.


    Face down, ass up, the only sounds filling the room were the aggressive rhythmic claps of Jennifer''s ass meeting each punishing thrust Ricky delivered.


    Ricky''s ears began to ring as he watched her ass sway in circles, thrusting relentlessly into her constantly squirting pussy.


    He felt a growing pressure in his balls, his nails digging into her waist as he increased his speed to thunderous claps, disregarding any concern for her feelings.


    His breaths hastened, strained even as he delivered one final, ravaging thrust into her punished pussy, flooding her womb once again with his thick cum.


    Her womb began to balloon under the massive amount of cum he was dumping into her being, stretching her body to accommodate the intense pleasure he induced.


    Jennifer''s body violently shuddered as the overwhelming sensation surged through her insides for the second time, an intense wave of juices spraying out and splattering across Ricky''s lower abdomen, though he remained oblivious to her reaction.


    Feeling the last bit of pleasure drain from his cock and into Jennifer, Ricky let out a haggard breath before collapsing backward onto the bed. J


    ennifer''s ass slumped down, her entire body sprawled out against the damp, ripped sheets and after a moment, she finally found the strength to stand up.


    Ricky lay on the bed, panting and gazing up at the ceiling, until he saw Jennifer crawling toward him.


    All his cum dripped from her pussy, staining the bed beneath them before she settled on top of him.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    "Ricky, are you alright?" Jennifer huffed out a question, one that came from the deepest part of her heart, while Ricky covered his face.


    "No, I''m not alright Jennifer, my life is f*cking falling apart." Ricky confessed, and Jennifer listened tentatively, catching her breath and fixing her hair as she absorbed his words.


    "Everytime I feel like my life is about to be smooth and actually good, there''s this sudden bump in the road that derails everything and I just fall back and-"


    "Ricky." Jennifer cooed as she leaned down, gently cupping Ricky''s cheek and turning his face towards her.


    "You''re going to be alright." Jennifer smiled warmly as Ricky, showing clear doubt, sat up.


    "How do you even know-"


    "I don''t, but telling yourself it''s not going to get any better won''t help you." Jennifer chuckled, caressing his chin as he let out a light sigh.


    Falling back on the completely ravaged bed, Ricky stared up at the ceiling as Jennifer traced circles on his chest.


    "Sorry about being so rough-"


    "Fufufufufu, I took you didn''t I?" Jennifer laughed, leaning in to take him into another tender kiss before breaking it.


    "But since you got your turn, now it''s mine." Jennifer kissed his forehead, then stood up and positioned herself so that her pussy, still leaking his cum, hovered right above his tip.


    "Ha~" Jennifer moaned, placing a hand on Ricky''s chest as she slid down his pulsating cock once more.


    With one smooth and sensual motion, she took in his entire length before opening her eyes.


    "Why couldn''t you be a little older, huh?" Jennifer joked, trying to lift his mood, and Ricky laughed as he leaned into her lips.


    "That didn''t stop you earlier." Ricky joked back, pulling her into a kiss as she rested her arms on his shoulders as their tongues interlocked in a slow, graceful dance.


    Then, without hesitation, Jennifer gently lifted her ass, which glistened in the moonlight, before slowly lowering it again.


    Her C-cups swayed in the air with each movement, repeating the motion while their tongues remained intertwined between their lips.


    Their sweat-covered bodies intermingled once more, but this time, instead of the aggressive wet slapping of colliding forms, they flowed together in a serene, interlocking embrace.


    Jennifer rode Ricky''s cock in a tentative but grateful manner, repeatedly taking him into her already stretched and accommodating pussy.


    Her hips moved up and down, driven by her own desires, as she filled herself to the brim with his veiny cock, momentarily ignoring him as he had done to her earlier.


    Jennifer was becoming intoxicated by Ricky''s cock, the sensation of him stretching and pushing deeper than she ever imagined, reviving her otherwise non existent sex life.


    Her movements gradually turned frenzied, her ass slamming up and down onto Ricky''s thighs, thrusting herself into his cock into her wet folds with increasing intensity.


    "Oh, oh yeah~" Jennifer moaned, pushing Ricky''s face away as she arched her head back.


    Lost in her own desires, she became wholly selfish, using Ricky as a mere dildo.


    Ricky, smiling at being used in such a way, didn''t complain in the slightest.


    Ramping up her pace, she pulled herself to the very tip of his cock before slamming back down, sending jolts of electricity through her nervous system.


    The intense pleasure transformed into the blissful, vacant smile that spread across her face.


    She craved it, yearning to experience that overwhelming climax that had already ravaged her pussy twice and was determined to reach that triple crown of pleasure.


    The hard, aggressive claps of Jennifer eagerly slapping her body against Ricky echoed in the already musk-filled room.


    The build-up within her only fueled her desperate need to ravage Ricky''s cock further, craving the flushed sensation of pleasure that always surged through her.


    Gritting her teeth, she felt his tip pressing against the walls of her womb, still coated with remnants of his cum.


    Desiring that fresh, thick coating of his cum, she gasped in hunger as she rode Ricky''s cock with fervor, her mind consumed by the raw pleasure as she eventually pulled herself up, seeking that intense satisfaction.


    "AH!" Jennifer yelled out as she drove herself down onto Ricky''s cock, hitting the flushing climax she had been yearning for and seconds later, Ricky''s grunt echoed through the room, marking his own release.


    That fresh coat of paint covered every inch of her walls with thick, eggshell white, as she let out a relieved moan.


    "Ohhhh, yeahhh~" Jennifer whispered as the last ounce of stress flowed from her pussy and onto Ricky''s abdomen.


    "Even?" Ricky asked, watching as Jennifer plopped down onto the bed as she laughed softly, a small chuckle escaping her lips.


    "Even."


    [Mission Received ''Jennifer Collins'']


    Difficulty: Hard


    Description: Jennifer has worked through countless adversities to land this prestigious job without taking the easy route when climbing this treacherous mountain. She might rather die than actually jeopardize her career by sleeping with one of her students.


    Objective: Find a way for Jennifer to overlook all of that and knock her up.


    Main Mission Reward: 100,000 IP


    Impregnante Jennifer Once:


    Rewards: 200 Gacha or The choice of Jennifer''s skills


    Impregnate Jennifer Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnante Jennifer while in the classroom(Incomplete)


    Reward: Epic item coupon Legendary Coupon


    Break Jennfier''s pussy(Complete)


    Reward: Epic item coupon


    Have Jennifer take the initiative(Complete)


    Reward: Epic/Legendary Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    Cum inside Jennifer three times in one sitting


    Reward: +5 Dexterity


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    Late in the night,


    Ricky sat on the edge of the bed, his face buried in his hands as Jennifer, slowly opening her eyes, noticed his distress.


    Despite knowing she was likely the last person Ricky should be spending the night with, he found an odd comfort in their tenuous connection, which felt more reassuring than the thought of being with Maria.


    Frowning, Jennifer moved forward and embraced him from behind, wrapping her arms around him in a comforting hug.


    "It''s ok." Jenifer cooed softly as Ricky caught hold of the hands that snaked their way around him, holding them tightly.


    "You''re going to be fine, you''re going to get through this." Jenifer rested her head on his shoulder, and Ricky released the aggrieved sigh he had been holding back.


    "I hope so."


    Author''s Note: Too tired + Too hungover = Me going over comments tommorrow.

 Chapter 69 - 68: Goodbye New York

    Chapter 69: Chapter 68: Goodbye New York


    The Next Morning,


    After the steamy encounter, he wandered down the streets of Harlem, his mind clouded with thoughts that swirled as thick as the evening air.


    Even in his sober state, Ricky was a disheveled wreck, stumbling through his day with the weight of exhaustion clinging to him.


    His clothes were rumpled, as though he''d barely put in the effort to straighten them, and his hair stuck out in unruly strands.


    Dark circles framed his eyes, betraying the sleepless nights and restless thoughts that plagued him.


    "Ricky!"


    A voice called out, and Ricky froze as he turned around slowly, his stomach knotting as his eyes landed on a figure that he desperately was trying to avoid.


    The unexpected presence sent a wave of unease washing over him, making him feel as though the ground had shifted beneath his feet.


    "Frank what are you-" Ricky started, an uneasy laugh slipping out as he forced a smile.


    Ricky couldn''t finish his sentence as the big guy closed the gap, pulling him into a tight hug and before he could react, Frank stepped back, placing heavy hands on his shoulders, his face softened by a sad smile that seemed to weigh down the moment.


    "Gosh you little sh*t, I''ve been looking everywhere for you." Frank attempted to put on a brave front, giving Ricky''s shoulders a firm pat, but the cracks showed.


    His face, worn and disheveled, mirrored Ricky''s, revealing that beneath the gesture of strength, he was just as shaken.


    An uncomfortable silence settled between them, thick and heavy as the tension hung in the air, making every second feel longer.


    Ricky''s guilt gnawed at him, so much so that he couldn''t bring himself to meet Frank''s eyes, his gaze dropping to the ground as the weight of the moment pressed down on him.


    "Here." Frank finally shattered the silence, extending an envelope and placing it gently in Ricky''s hand.


    "This was-" Ricky immediately spoke out, his eyes widening, recognizing the handwriting on the envelope.


    *Sniff*


    "This was one of the two letters that were next to the bedside," Frank said, his voice thick with emotion.


    "This one had your name on it." Frank gave Ricky''s shoulder a reassuring pat before stepping back, allowing Ricky to become engrossed in the letter, his attention fully absorbed by the item now clutched in his hands.


    "Lucky also filled me in on what you were doing, and I appreciate it," Frank said, his voice wavering slightly, knowing that it would be impossible for Ricky to give Eddy a catholic funeral.


    "But when you''re ready, we''ll spread his ashes, okay?" Frank forced a smile, trying to not break down at the thought of spreading his little brother''s ashes.


    Ricky opened his mouth to respond, but the words eluded him and Frank, sensing this, gave his shoulder one last pat before walking away.


    Left alone, Ricky wandered the streets until he reached the Cotton Club as he paused at the entrance, hesitating.


    Though he knew it was right to bid farewell to Jake and the others, he ultimately retracted, continuing down the sidewalk instead.


    A car slowly eased to a stop beside him and despite his efforts to ignore it, Ricky glanced over to find Madame St. Clair waiting silently.


    Words weren''t necessary; the unspoken understanding was palpable and with a resigned sigh, Ricky approached the car and climbed in.


    As the vehicle pulled away, it maintained a steady, regulated speed with Ricky slumping in his seat.


    "I heard about your friend and might I say, thank you for not coming into Harlem afterwards." Madame St. Clair''s attempt at humor fell flat, as Ricky didn''t laugh and instead, he let out a small, weary breath, his mood remaining somber.


    "What do you want?" Ricky turned his head to face her as she pulled out a cigarette and extended it toward him, which he accepted with a simple nod.


    "I heard you''re leaving, I just wanted to say goodbye, that''s all." Madame St. Clair made a prompt comment, and to her surprise, it was the thing to actually make Ricky laugh.


    "I didn''t know we were friends." Ricky said in a cynical tone, lighting his cigarette and leaning against the window.


    "We''re not, we''re associates, but even associates can say goodbye." Madame exhaled a small puff of smoke from her cigarette and swiftly retorted.


    "Anything else?" Ricky asked with a self-deprecating tone, and Madame rolled her eyes, though a smile tugged at her lips.


    "I wanted to say thank you." Madame actually thanked Ricky who was a little taken aback, laughing once more but in a thicker tone.


    "You''re kidding?" Ricky genuinely asked, thinking this had to be the first time he had heard her say anything of the sorts.


    "Of course not, even though you''re being a little sissy right now, I''m still grateful for everything you''ve done for my community." Madame promptly replied, showing her appreciation towards Ricky even if it was for his own profit.


    "Honestly, the only reason I humored you in the first place was in hopes of getting in your pants." Ricky said with a playful smile as Madame burst into laughter at his bold proclamation.


    "Oh honey, it wouldn''t have taken a detective to figure that out." Madame tapped his shoulder with a slight chuckle brushing off a piece of lint.


    "But still, you are a selfish piece of garbage, however in the end you helped out a lot of people which goes a long way." Madame complimented in a weird way as Ricky simply smiled.


    "So when, or if you come back, I''ll let you take me out to dinner as a reward." Madame then leaned over and kissed his cheek, opening the door on his side while in the act.


    "Is that your way of telling me to get out?" Ricky asked, stepping out of the car as Madame laughed.


    "No, it''s my frustration for doing all that promoting to get you a couple of boxers only for you to suddenly leave." Madame closed the door but smiled through the window, her expression warm and playful as she watched Ricky''s reaction.


    "And Ricky, one more thing." Madame rested her head on the window, mirroring Ricky as he leaned down to match her gesture.


    "If you still act like a child when you come back, lose my number," Madame said, giving his cheek a playful tap before the driver accelerated away.


    *Sigh*


    "Honestly, one of my biggest regrests in that I never got to tap that while I was still here." Ricky sighed, reflecting on his biggest regret as he shook his head and continued walking.


    Arriving at Elijah''s store, Ricky was unsure why he had come, though he felt an inexplicable pull toward it.


    As he stood there, he realized he had nothing to lose by stepping inside, a sense of resignation pushing him through the door.


    *Ring*


    "Just a minute, I''ll be right out!" Elijah yelled from the back, Ricky shrugging while starting to walk through the convenience store.


    He grabbed a couple of snacks and headed to the counter, only to find that it was not Elijah but his son, Isiah, manning the register.


    "Ring me up." Ricky tossed the snacks onto the counter, but Isiah shook his head, a knowing look in his eyes.


    "My daddy told me not to ever charge you for the things you want in the store-"


    *Sigh*


    "Whatever." Ricky sighed, swiping the snacks off the counter as he didn''t have the energy for any arguments and turned to leave.


    "You know what, no." Ricky turned back to the twelve-year-old Isiah, who flinched as Ricky slammed the snacks back onto the counter.


    "Let me ask you something-uh, wait what''s your name again?" Ricky pointed at Isiah, who looked up with a mix of confusion and apprehension, clearly bewildered by the sudden shift in Ricky''s demeanor.


    "I-Isaiah?"


    "Isaiah, why can''t sh*t just fall into place and go my way, huh?!" Ricky erupted, directing his frustration at the young boy, who stood too confused and inexperienced to offer any answers.


    "I-I don''t'' know-" Isaiah, not expecting to be used to vent his inner frustration, recoiled backwards a bit.


    "Because it feels like whenever I do anything right and things are going just great, something always comes along to ruin the mood, the flow!" Ricky shouted, his frustration escalating as Isiah stood there nervously, unsure of how to respond to the outburst.


    "Uh-"


    *Thump*


    Ricky banged his head lightly against the counter, letting out a deep, aggrieved sigh as he clutched the letter in his pocket, his fingers trembling as he struggled to muster the courage to open it.


    "Daddy!" Isaiah called toward the back, his voice tinged with concern as he wondered if he had done something wrong.


    Elijah emerged from the back, his eyes widening in surprise as he took in the scene before him.


    "S-Slick-"


    *THUMP*


    Ricky slammed his forehead into the counter again, causing both Elijah and Isiah to flinch as a visible crack formed from the force of his impact.


    "Go to the back boy, let me talk to him." Elijah, seeing Ricky obviously distressed and able to read the room, tapped Isaiah''s back signaling him to leave.


    Instead of answering, Elijah walked over to the door and turned the open sign to closed before heading towards the back, leaving the two of them in a heavy silence.


    Elijah emerged with two root beers and two stools as he set them down next to each other and handed a drink to Ricky.


    "I know that you''ve probably heard this a lot but I''m sorry for your loss." Elijah spoke first as Ricky reacted, grabbing the beer and sitting down quietly.


    "Isn''t everyone?" Ricky looked up, frowning at the soda but twisting off the cap nonetheless.


    "But I can understand where you''re coming from." Elijah suddenly said, causing Ricky to look up at him with a plain expression.


    "Really?" Ricky asked, his voice strained as he struggled to keep cynicism at bay.


    He honestly found it hard to believe that Elijah would truly relate to him, given that he was a mobster and his friend literally hung himself before his eyes when he had the fix all cure in his grasp.


    "Yes Mr. Luciano-I mean Slick." Elijah began to speak but hesitated, noticing the skeptical frown on Ricky''s face.


    "You see, my wife was always a very sick woman." Elijah smiled, looking down at the soda with a reminiscent expression while rubbing the label.


    "We grew up together, but she always had to be inside you see, due to her health." Elijah reminisced, closing his eyes and trying to remember her smile.


    "Everyone used to tease her and even I was no different but when I saw her on a fateful Tuesday, god." Elijah let out a chuckle, shaking his head and gazing down.


    "She was so pretty, I was barely ten years old yet even to this day I still remember that swelling in my heart." Elijah tapped on his chest, laughing at his own words.


    "I-I visited her everyday after that, she couldn''t go outside so she lived through my stories." Elijah began, his voice faltering but continued to keep it steady.


    "My dream back then was to sail across the world and I always used to tell her the things I wanted to see, until the days passed, and it became the things we wanted to see." Elijah faltering turned back into a smile, his voice as smooth as the ocean.


    "Did you end up sailing across the world?" Ricky asked Elijah who laughed, shaking his head and taking a sip of his soda.


    "Of course not." Elijah laughed, wiping his mouth before looking back at the ground.


    "No, instead of continuing to save for a boat, when I turned eighteen I used up all my savings and bought a ring." Elijah tapped his gold ring, chuckling at his own nativity.


    "What happened to sailing across the world, wasn''t it your dream?" Ricky asked, taking a sip of his beer.


    "No, cause I realized I didn''t need to sail across the world," Elijah said, his voice gaining confidence.


    "From the start, she had always been everything I dreamed about." Elijah''s words only made Ricky chuckle at the sentiment, finding it the sort of romantic notion one might find in a book.


    "She got all mad at me too, saying the same things like ''It''s your dream'' and ''Don''t stay because of me'' but I wouldn''t budge and took out the ring." Elijah continued to laugh, rubbing his golden ring in the process.


    "I got on one knee and asked her to make me the happiest man by giving me my world. She said yes," Elijah continued, taking another sip of his soda.


    "I took over my father''s shop, but she didn''t get any better. Then one day, she told me she was pregnant." Elijah''s voice grew heavier, showing some hesitation but continued nonetheless.


    "I was thrilled at first, until the doctors warned us that if she went through with it, she wouldn''t live long." Elijah said, his voice growing somber with every word uttered.


    "So what did you do?" Ricky asked, and Elijah raised an eyebrow in response as he then recalled seeing Elijah''s son and nodded.


    "Well we had my boy, Isaiah." Elijah said as if it was obvious, laughing along with Ricky.


    "I''m sorry, but how does this relate to me-" Ricky asked, his laughter dying down only for Elijah to actually interrupt him.


    "Because I watched someone I cared about slowly die right before my eyes, until one day, I came home and found they had already left this world." Elijah said, his voice heavy with emotion, finally getting to the point as Ricky halted his words.


    "Did it get better?" Ricky suddenly asked, still reeling in from Eddy''s death while feeling wholly responsible.


    "No, not at first." Elijah shook his head, his face showing that even now, a part of him hadn''t gone over it.


    "The real sh*tty thing about grief, Slick." Elijah said, his voice steady but tinged with sorrow.


    "Is that aching feeling that you could''ve done more." Elijah paused, meeting Ricky''s gaze before continuing


    "But you''ve got to forgive yourself, Slick. Sometimes we lose the things we care about, and we can''t control that." Elijah took a deep breath, his words raspy as this topic always made him emotional.


    "I wasn''t the best husband. I still had a lot of things I wanted to do with her, but I can''t turn back the clock, and I don''t want to." Elijah conveyed that, even now, he still wishes he could go back and do more, but he wouldn''t change a thing.


    "But if I didn''t-" Ricky tried to say something only for Elijah to put up a hand and shook his head.


    "You''re only hurting yourself when you try to reason with their loss, trust me I know, I used to think about what I could''ve done over and over until I realized that she was just gone." Elijah had already played this game before, knowing it was a never ending circle of despair and the only way to break free, is to simply not play.


    "The best thing I can tell you, Slick, is that no matter how much you punish yourself, he''s already gone, and nothing you do will change that," Elijah said, giving Ricky''s shoulder a reassuring pat as he took a swig of his soda before walking away, leaving Ricky to absorb his words.


    The bell rang, and Isaiah slowly returned, his expression still uncertain as Elijah pulled him into a hug before heading back to reopen the store.


    The weight of Elijah''s words left Ricky deep in thought and as he was about to leave, he noticed someone leaning against a nearby post.


    "Hey Henry." Ricky waved, and Henry responded with a laugh, raising his hand with a toothy smile.


    "That''s it? I could''ve sworn you were going to say something snarky at my sudden arrival like ''Why are you here?'' or ''How did you find me?''" Henry laughed as he walked alongside Ricky, who simply trudged down the sidewalk in silence.


    "What do you want, Henry?" Ricky asked a question, and Henry sighed, realizing he couldn''t even muster the energy to humor him.


    "Is it true your leaving, cause if you do I''ll have a-"


    "Yeah I am and you can just give up my spot." Ricky had lost interest in high school, feeling that he had far more pressing concerns on his plate.


    "And here I thought our little club meant so much to you?" Henry asked, only to watch Ricky walk into a bagel shop without a word.


    "Well, I guess I''ve hit my limit with snobby rich kids," Ricky said, waving Henry away only for the latter to remain unfazed, walking up to the counter alongside him.


    "Aye Tony, everything bagel with schmear." Ricky waved at Tony, his bagel guy, who nodded and went to get his order ready.


    "I too will have what he''s having." Henry walked up to the counter and saw Tony generously slathering a massive amount of cream cheese on the bagels.


    "Oh, can you lay back on the cream cheese?" Henry tentatively asked, causing both of them to freeze.


    Tony and Ricky locked eyes, and suddenly, Tony''s expression shifted into a scowl as he threw down his knife in frustration.


    "The f*ck you say." Tony''s demeanor turned aggressive immediately, while Ricky shook his head in disappointment.


    "R-Ricky what did I do-" Henry held up his hands, looking at the disappointed Ricky to the side.


    "You''re disrespecting the schmear Henry, you can''t disrespect the schmear in a f*cking bagel shop." Ricky laughed as if it were common knowledge, while Tony shook his head, clearly exasperated.


    "Listen Slick, I respect you and all but I can''t serve someone like that." Tony held up his hands in a gesture of defeat, and Ricky nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Aye don''t worry about, I get it, he can''t come in here and say sh*t like that." Ricky nodded in agreement as Tony let out a sigh of relief, while Henry stood to the side, clearly confused by the exchange.


    "I-I am so confused." Henry whispered to himself, watching bagless at the side while Ricky was being handed his bagel minutes later.


    "Tony, it''s beautiful." Ricky gestured to Tony at the masterpiece, who raised his hands in a gesture of refusal when Ricky tried to pay.


    "No way Slick, I ain''t letting you pay, you know this." Tony shook his head, showing with his words and actions that it was unacceptable for him to ask for money.


    Ricky shrugged, taking a huge bite of the bagel and waving goodbye, Henry following along while still puzzled by the interaction.


    "Ricky what did I-" Henry didn''t understand what it was that he even did wrong, trying to ask Ricky who was hearing none of it.


    "Stop, just stop." Ricky held up his hand, not wanting to hear any excuses after being embarrassed right in front of his bagel guy.


    "Anyways, are you sure you''re not coming back-" Henry regained his bearings, asking out for even more clarification as if Ricky would change his mind.


    "Nope, tell the school I quit or don''t since it doesn''t matter any more." Ricky answered without much thought, taking another bite of his bagel and Henry sighed, clearly resigned to the lack of explanation.


    "Are you sure you''re not taking an early summer!" Henry stopped and yelled after Ricky, who continued to stroll down the street unperturbed.


    "If that''s what makes you sleep better at night!" Ricky yelled back as he turned the corner, leaving Henry scratching his head in confusion, leaving him alone with only one thought.


    "What the hell is a schmear?"


    Munching on his bagel, Ricky strolled down the bustling streets, a sharp sting of irony pricking at him.


    People who had once played insignificant roles in his life now seemed to reappear, like ghosts from a forgotten past.


    Each bite of the bagel felt heavy with his growing realizations and deep down, he knew he owed it to his friends and loved ones to face the consequences of his actions.


    Yet with every step, the truth he dreaded became clearer: he just didn''t have the guts to confront them.


    His thoughts drifted to his old friend, Jake, as an uneasy feeling settled in his chest as he felt that nothing good could come from showing up at Jake''s door.


    Ricky had essentially convinced himself that it was better to leave without uttering a single goodbye.


    It was a one-dimensional way of looking at things, but to him, it made sense.


    In his mind, Jake was his friend, and that meant Jake would understand while seeing things the same way.


    Jake had always been there, a steady presence through thick and thin but the burden of his own failures and betrayals now made Ricky feel unworthy of that friendship.


    He couldn''t bear the thought of seeing disappointment in Jake''s eyes or facing the unspoken questions that would linger heavily in the silence between them.


    The city seemed to close in around him, the noise of traffic and chatter amplifying his internal turmoil.


    Ricky knew he was being a coward, but he couldn''t muster the courage to face the reality of his actions.


    He had always been a master at running away, burying his problems beneath layers of bravado and recklessness.


    As he turned another corner, Ricky tried to justify his decision as maybe it was better this way.


    Maybe Jake was better off without him complicating things further.


    He clung to that thought, even though a part of him knew it was just an excuse to avoid the painful confrontation.


    Tossing the bagel wrapper into the trash, he sighed, thinking of all the lovers he was about to leave behind, each carrying his bastards in their wombs.


    It was cruel, but out of all of them, Ricky felt a pang of something only for Maria, Alina, and, for some reason, Dolly.


    When it came to Dolly, Ricky figured it boiled down to the simple fact that she had been his first conquest which he determined was the real reason she held any significance.


    With each step, Ricky convinced himself that abandoning them wasn''t so terrible that, in fact, they might be better off without him.


    In Alina''s case, he felt certain that she would forgive him as long as he eventually reappeared.


    He had given her everything she needed for a comfortable life, after all, as he even convinced himself that leaving abruptly wasn''t his fault, it was the mafia''s fault for everything, and she would surely understand that.


    However, when it came to Maria, Ricky actually felt a sense of guilt as he had gotten everything he wanted from her, and now that he had it, he was leaving without a second thought.


    Maria knew why he was leaving, and so did he, but just because they both understood didn''t give him the right to skip saying goodbye.


    But Ricky did what he always did, convincing himself with Profaci''s earlier words that he would only bring trouble to Maria.


    His gaze drifted towards the distant docks as he finished his bagel, the final bite a bitter reminder of the steps he hadn''t had the courage to take.


    As he walked aimlessly towards his departure from the city, he felt a confusing mix of shame and relief.


    Shame for his cowardice, relief for his escape.


    The road ahead was uncertain, brimming with potential pitfalls and challenges and for now, though, he chose to avoid it, wandering aimlessly and delaying the inevitable confrontation with his past.


    "And here I thought you''d run away." Abraham joked as Ricky arrived, but instead of laughing, he simply stared at him.


    *Thump*


    Ricky gave him a slight push, causing Abraham to stumble backward and trip over a random box behind him and despite the clumsy mishap, he didn''t spill a drop from his flask.


    *Sigh*


    Abraham sighed at the incident, taking a swig from his flask and meanwhile, Ricky turned his attention to Alexander, Chester, and Henry, observing them closely.


    "You guys ready-"


    "I''m not going, Ricky." Chester made the announcement, leaving Ricky completely stunned by the sudden news.


    "Why-"


    "Because someone needs to stay to make sure that old human still has that Genjutsu on him." Chester remarked, noting that unlike Ricky, he hadn''t forgotten his one purpose since arriving.


    "Oh." Ricky scratched his head, having completely forgotten about that.


    "Will you be-"


    "Yes, but will you?" Chester retorted with a question of his own, which Ricky scoffed at almost immediately.


    "Then take care of Alexander, he gets lonely." Chester flapped his wings and took off into the sky, while Alexander turned to watch the crow soar away.


    "Lonely? ME, THE FORMER RULER OF MACEDONIA! HA!" Alexander stomped his paw against the side of the boat.


    "Lonely? ME THE FORMER RULER OF MACEDONIA! HA!"


    "I''LL KILL YOU!" Alexander yelled, chasing after Henry with no success, while Ricky turned to see a figure rushing toward him.


    "RICKY!"


    Turning his head back, Ricky was surprised to see Chores and Barko racing after him, and they continued their pursuit until they reached the boat.


    "How did you guys even-"


    "Madame told us and here." Chores promptly delivered her message, causing Ricky to roll his eyes at her blunt interference in his life as he glanced down at the letter as he listened.


    "Jake wanted to come, but decided to stay behind but wrote this impromptu letter." Barko narrated while Ricky opened the letter, pulling out the words scribbled onto the page.


    Dear Ricky,


    You suck. Seriously, I know you''re an asshole but I had to hear from Madame that you were leaving today, really man? But, I should''ve expected something like this since you aren''t really known for responsibility.


    I swear, I still remember that night where you brought that booze from that fancy club you and Maria got invited to. The one where you picked up that fine red headed broad and me this busty blonde. I never told you this but when you were cuffed with nothing more than a sock covering your you know what, me, Eddy, and Rocco always used to clown you behind your back.


    We were really just four guys, laughing and making memories that, at the time, felt like they would last forever. It''s hard to believe that Eddy and Rocco are gone now. The thought of never seeing them again, never hearing Eddy''s stupid bets or Rocco''s crappy pick up lines, it''s... well, it''s tough, man.


    And now, with you leaving, it feels like the last piece of our group is breaking away. But hey, I get it. Life moves on, and we all have our paths to follow. Just know that no matter where you end up, those memories are a part of us. They''ll always be there, a reminder of better times, of friendship, and of all the crazy things we did together.


    Take care of yourself out there, Ricky. And maybe, just maybe, try not to get into too much trouble. Don''t worry about the clubs, I''ll hold it down until you make your return in a way that only I would expect from you.


    Sincerely your best and now only friend,


    Jake Lankey


    Ricky laughed the entire time he read the letter, recognizing that more thought might have gone into it if Jake had had more time but still, it was more than enough for him.


    As he reached into his pocket for Eddy''s letter, he hesitated, tucking it back away without opening it.


    The boat started to pull away from the dock, its engines rumbling softly and Ricky leaned against the railing, scanning the crowd that walked along the port.


    Among the throng of people, he spotted a solitary figure standing tall, Lucky.


    In that moment, Ricky ignored the other stragglers and focused solely on Lucky, the man who had done so much for him.


    Reflecting on his past life, Ricky remembered his father as a pitiful figure who had only ever given him childhood trauma.


    But Lucky, who wasn''t even his biological father in this second life, had been more of a father to Ricky than he could have ever hoped for.


    As Ricky watched the man standing alone, he hesitated, torn between speaking up or simply turning away.


    The distance between them grew, but then Ricky noticed a broad grin spreading across Lucky''s face.


    Lucky began laughing, a deep, hearty sound that carried over the noise of the boat''s engines.


    Ricky felt a swirl of emotions, but the sight of Lucky''s joyful laughter made him smile as he couldn''t help but raise his hand in return and join in the laughter.


    "Ha~" Ricky shook his head with a chuckle, thinking that they both knew what was unsaid but chose to leave it at that and instead, they simply laughed together.


    They both started laughing and waving, the distance growing but the connection feeling as strong as ever.


    Lucky''s figure gradually disappeared into the distance, but the image stayed vivid in Ricky''s mind.


    Ricky mused for a while before pulling out his key, unlocking the storage room, and walking out with the cross.


    "It seems like you are ready for your destiny, my descendant." Perciveil manifested in the sky before Ricky who squinted his eyes as he looked up at him.


    "Just shut up and tell me how to be the Black Knight."


    Author''s Note: End of Volume 1, I know it''s been a little rocky and somewhat frustrating but this phase is almost over, just let me cook a bit more, little bit more.

 Chapter 70 - 69: Arrival And Recognition

    Chapter 70: Chapter 69: Arrival And Recognition


    1 hour later,


    "A black knight must be chivalrous, not merely in the grand gestures of battle, but in the quiet moments when honor is tested most. His armor may be darkened by time or choice, but his heart must remain unwavering in its commitment to justice." Percival let out in a grandiose manner, his gestures commanding all attention around him.


    "He must be the shield for the defenseless, the voice for the silenced, and the hand that reaches out not only to vanquish his foes, but to lift his allies. Chivalry demands more than valor; it requires compassion for the weak, respect for women, loyalty to his lord, and truth in his word." Percival''s tone only grew more passionate with every word uttered, clenching his fist then releasing it upwards.


    "Even when his path is clouded by deceit or treachery, the black knight must shine through-wait I- '''' Percival carried on with his lecture, his voice steady and unwavering, while Ricky, growing increasingly impatient, finally opened his storage and tossed the cross back into it, causing his ancestor to suddenly disappear into the hollow space in time.


    Ricky had expected at least a shred of useful guidance, a hint, anything to give him direction.


    But for the past hour, his ancestor had droned on solely about chivalry, principles Ricky found more tedious than enlightening.


    The frustration gnawed at him, and he couldn''t help but feel that Percival was deliberately avoiding what he truly wanted to know.


    Ricky felt the weight of the endless lessons on honor and virtue pressing down on him until something inside snapped.


    Instead of enduring another hour of lecture with a growing migraine, he simply threw the cross back into the storage space.


    Rising to his feet, Ricky strode over to Abraham, who was casually leaning against the side of the boat, flask in hand.


    Just as Abraham was about to take a swig, Ricky swatted the flask from his grasp, sending it clattering into the ocean.


    "What''s your problem?" Abraham, his lips pressed into a frown, watched as Ricky dropped onto a nearby crate.


    "I''m an alcoholic and an addict." Ricky made a cynical joke, and despite himself, Abraham let out a small laugh before reaching into his trench coat and pulling out another flask.


    "No kid, that''s how you''ve been treating your problem." Abraham spoke from experience, his crippling sadness momentarily eased by the contents of his flask as he tipped it toward Ricky.


    Ricky scoffed, but the retort he had ready was caught in his throat as the old man''s words left him momentarily speechless, unable to muster a comeback.


    "Dammit." Ricky couldn''t think of any comeback, throwing something nearby at Abraham who easily dodged it.


    "You know, you have to be the biggest little sh*t i''ve ever seen, do you know that?" Abraham said, taking a swig from the half-empty bottle and fixing Ricky with a scornful look.


    "I''ll take that as a compliment." Ricky rested his head on the back of the boat''s ledge as Abraham''s face contorted into a perplexed expression.


    "How?" Abraham''s expression shifted to confusion, clearly not understanding how that could be considered a compliment.


    "Never mind." Abraham spoke before Ricky could open his mouth with a smart retort.


    "HEATHEN, YOU ARE ALL HEATHENS IN CAHOOTS!" Alexander slammed the playing cards onto the box, prompting a sigh from Chores.


    "Ricky, can you tell Alexander that I am in fact, not cheating?" Chores turned to Ricky, clearly exasperated, as this was the fourth time Alexander had done this.


    "He knows, he''s just a poor loser." Ricky informed Chores, who sighed in response as Alexander frowned but chose not to argue, picking his battles.


    "So Abraham, what''s the plan now?" Ricky gestured towards the old drunk, his eye in his flask before patting the back for the very last drop.


    "The plan is for me to deliver you to the Vatican so that I can finally continue my hunt." Abraham continued, drinking the last drop from his flask while staring straight ahead.


    "Is Dracual really that powerful-" Ricky asked, curious if he was stronger than his son, but Abraham interrupted with a scoff.


    "Yes, he is that powerful." Abraham answered before Ricky could even finish his contemplation.


    "He is a being who has prevailed against humanity''s best for centuries, upholding the title given to him by the first vampire, Varnae." Abraham said. Ricky nodded along until he caught the last part.


    "Wasn''t Dracula the first vampire?" Ricky asked, recalling stories he had heard as Abraham laughed in response, acknowledging the mix-up.


    "No, but it''s common for plebs like you to assume Dracula was the first. It was actually that bastard Varnae." Abraham said with a disgruntled sigh, taking out another flask from his trench coat.


    "The bastard was around before the sinking of Atlantis and has tried for eons to conquer the world, yet like his successor, he''s failed time and time again." Abraham dropped this truth bomb, leaving Ricky reeling from the impact that Atlantis was real.


    "So in the end, you want to stop all vampires-"


    "Oh god no, I just want to kill Dracula." Abraham suddenly laughed out, holding up his hand to stop Ricky.


    "I could care less about good or bad since the fight against evil is bullsh*t because, in the end, I just want to be free from the fate I was born into." Abraham gazed down at the wine bottle in his hand, leaving Ricky in contemplative silence.


    "Do you know what the most unfair thing about being a Van heisling is?" Abraham suddenly looked at Ricky, who wore a thoughtful expression.


    "Being born ugly?" Ricky asked, theatrically wiping away a nonexistent tear for the old potato in front of him, which made Abraham chuckle.


    "No, asshole, it''s that we''re born into the fate of forever being in purgatory. We could live good Christian lives, and we''d still be cursed." Abraham sighed, hitting his head against the ledge in a gesture that mirrored Ricky''s earlier move.


    "Man, it does really suck to be you." Ricky nudged Abraham with a smile, who rolled his eyes in response.


    "What about you, ''Slick''? How does it feel knowing you''re being pulled into something you''ll never escape?" Abraham asked from experience, but Ricky simply scoffed.


    "If I want to leave then I-"


    "Jesus, it''s like I''m looking at a younger me." Abraham laughed at Ricky''s naivety, causing Ricky to frown at the constant interruptions.


    "That''s what I thought long ago. I told myself, ''How hard can it be?'' All I had to do was kill one person. And here I am, sixty-four years after being inducted into the Vatican, and I haven''t done sh*t. I''ve only failed." Abraham said, before drinking himself to the bottom of the barrel and letting out an aggrieved sigh.


    "Oh, come on, for an old man, you don''t seem that bad-" Ricky genuinely gestured toward him, only for Abraham to roll his eyes.


    "Because you''re just as bad as me, you can''t see the problem in your own reflection." Abraham sighed, covering his face at actually having to relate to someone.


    "We are nothing alike, your a loser and I''m a-"


    "Loser." Abraham finished his sentence, noting their oddly similar fates.


    "I didn''t lose-"


    "That''s not what I saw yesterday. From what I saw, you had completely lost," Abraham said, pointing at him as Ricky just laughed it off, but he continued.


    "Your friends died, your fellow mobsters turned their backs on you, and you were exiled from New York. How is that winning?" Abraham asked genuinely, causing Ricky to stop smiling.


    "And you''re any better?" Ricky asked, pointing the finger back at Abraham, who simply laughed in response.


    "No! That''s why I''m saying we''re so alike. It''s because both of us keep failing that we''re so similar," Abraham announced, drawing the attention of Chores and Barko.


    Ricky was about to retort but simply closed his mouth, standing up and walking into the cabin to get some shut-eye.


    "Told you-" Abraham smiled wryly, only for Chores to voice his opinion.


    "You two aren''t the same, merely similar." Chores suddenly said to Abraham, who plucked the cards from Alexander''s hand.


    "Listen Fee fye fo fum-" Abraham immediately went to make a joke, but Barko interjected before he could finish it.


    "Chores is right; both of you are similar, but in the end, you''re alone," Barko said, pointing his paw at Abraham, who widened his eyes in surprise.


    "Well, back then-"


    "You drew the comparison that you two are alike now, not back then. So your points are wrong and you''re simply similar, not the same," Chores informed Abraham, who frowned and scratched his head.


    "Yeah we''re only similar!" Ricky yelled from behind the curtains, prompting Abraham to scoff and turn to the side.


    "Whatever."


    A couple days later,


    "Dammit." Ricky cursed under his breath as Chores drew a three from his hand and placed his last card on the box.


    "See!" Alexander pointed at Chores with an accusing look, while Henry sat perched atop Ricky''s head.


    "See!" Henry mocked Alexander, who growled in response, while Chores raised an eyebrow.


    To Ricky, it seemed like Henry was merely repeating a word, but to the others, Henry was actually imitating Alexander''s squeak.


    "Seriously though, Chores, be real with me, are you cheating?" Ricky stood up, scanning the area for a mirror.


    "It''s simple observation and a good recollection," Chores informed Ricky, just as Abraham stood up suddenly.


    "We''re here, get ready kid." Abraham took out his crossbows, causing Ricky to raise an eyebrow in curiosity.


    "What do you-"


    *BANG*


    *DINK*


    Ricky turned his head as a bullet casing bounced off his shield and fell into the nearby sea, his shield quickly extending to cover the entire boat.


    "What the-" Ricky looked up, only for his eyes to reflect the sea of metal suddenly launching at him.


    A flurry of bullets erupted in rapid succession, each shot slicing through the air with deadly precision.


    This time, Ricky wasn''t caught off guard as his senses, sharpened by the earlier volley, now honed in on the cascade of metal being hurled toward him.


    He moved with practiced agility, his shield shimmering as it deflected the incoming storm of bullets while grabbing a nearby butter knife.


    ''Full counter.''


    Swiping the butter knife upwards in a clean arc, Ricky redirected the bullets lodged in his shield. In the next second, they were propelled backward at twice the speed and force with which they had originally been fired.


    Screams echoed through the increasingly foggy morning as the bullets traced their swift return path. The chaos gradually subsided, and as the fog began to clear, the view revealed the aftermath of Ricky''s counterattack.


    "Remember what I said about Ernst trying to take you out? Well, he''s going to attempt to kill you before you reach the docks, but it looks like that won''t be a problem." Abraham informed Ricky as they both looked up at a distant cliff, where bodies were slowly falling into the sea below in mangled bits.


    The distinct military uniforms, marked with Hakenkreuz, clarified their allegiance as the bodies fell from the cliff.


    Only one man remained atop the precipice, Ernst.


    He glanced down at the boat, unperturbed at the carnage around him as he hadn''t fired a single bullet, thus avoiding any potential return fire.


    Without a hint of concern for his fallen comrades, Ernst turned and marched away as Ricky raised an eyebrow at the scene, observing the cold detachment with which Ernst abandoned his men.


    "That pipsqueak is Ersnt?" Ricky remarked, his emperor eyes allowing him to see clearly from a distance. He noted that Ernst wasn''t taller than 5''2.


    "Unfortunately." Abraham sighed, shaking his head as he glanced toward the docks, but Ricky wasn''t finished.


    "He looks like Macaulay Culkin became a midget after growing up."


    "He''s like a shrunken Ken doll with a cheap wig."


    "He looks like Peter Pan finally grew up but forgot to grow taller."


    "Wait, wait, wait, he looks like Shirley Temple''s stunt double, but they forgot to swap him out."


    *PFFT*


    Abraham tried his best to hold back his laughter but burst out in a hearty laugh upon reaching the docks and seeing Father Sebastian increasingly worried.


    "Ricky, are you alright!" Father Sebastion yelled before the boat docked as Ricky raised a thumb.


    "You know, I''ve been feeling kind of down, but after making fun of Ernst, I''m actually thinking a bit better," Ricky said, letting out a relieved sigh and nodding to himself. Father Sebastian suddenly tilted his head, puzzled by his words since they were misinterpreted.


    "Who knew that putting others down could make me feel so much better about myself?" Ricky thought aloud as Abraham shrugged at Father Sebastian, who was about to say something but then shook it off.


    "It is good to see you son." Father Sebastian waited for Ricky to walk onto the docks, patting his shoulders as he did.


    "Ah, I see you brought companions, most excellent!" Father Sebastian looked over at Chores and Barko, who were following behind him.


    "And who might these two beautiful creatures be?" Father Sebastian asked as Alexander scurried onto Ricky''s shoulders and Henry perched atop his head.


    "I am Alexander the Great, sovereign of Macedonia, commander of the Paripanians, and vanquisher of Europe." Alexander spoke humbly as Father Sebastian patted his head, listening to the squeaks with a gentle smile.


    "The gerbil on my shoulder is Alexander, and the mockingbird on my head is Henry." Ricky introduced, as Father Sebastian nodded with a warm smile.


    "Such gracious creatures. Come, let me walk you to the Vatican, the place you were always meant to be." Father Sebastian said eagerly, as Ricky led him toward the towering cathedral that reached high into the sky.


    Located in the heart of Rome, the Vatican stood as a bastion of spiritual authority and artistic grandeur.


    This independent city-state, though small in size, flourished with its buildings adorned by symbols of divine reverence at every turn.


    Majestic statues, murals, and gold-encrusted insignias covered the walls, ceilings, and courtyards, proclaiming its dedication to God.


    Guards stood at attention at each entrance, the vibrant hues of the Swiss Guard uniforms contrasting against the ancient stonework of the Vatican''s architecture.


    These sentinels, trained and vigilant, bowed respectfully as Father Sebastian approached, his dark robes sweeping across the polished marble floor.


    His footsteps echoed softly as he made his way past the towering columns of St. Peter''s Square, through the vast, open expanse where thousands of pilgrims once gathered in prayer.


    Father Sebastian moved with an air of solemn purpose, his gaze unwavering as he walked past the ornate statue of Jesus on the cross.


    "Let me show you to your quarters." Father Sebastian guided Ricky aside, his voice low and measured as he spoke.


    "Find me."


    "Huh?" Ricky''s head snapped in the opposite direction when a whisper crawled into his ear, catching Abraham''s raised eyebrow.


    "I didn''t say anything?" Abraham gave him a puzzled look as Ricky scratched his head, then trailed behind Father Sebastian.


    "Hello Father." Ernst emerged in the hallway leading to Ricky''s quarters, prompting Father Sebastian to force a smile.


    "Hello child." Father Sebastian nodded, though Ernst''s gaze was fixed on Ricky, who raised an eyebrow.


    "So, this is the stain on Percival''s bloodline you spoke of?" Ernst mused, tilting his head in curiosity as Ricky let out a laugh.


    "High and mighty words for someone so close to the ground." Ricky retorted, stepping forward and glaring down at Ernst, whose eyebrow twitched at the remark.


    "You''d do well to watch your words-"


    "Or what, you''ll kick my shins?" Ricky goaded him further, even as Ernst''s eyes grew dangerously cold. Ricky only laughed in response.


    "Leave now; your presence here contradicts everything the church stands for." Ernst warned, but Ricky merely widened his arms in defiance.


    "Listen, munchkin, that just makes me want to steal your job and rub it in your face even more." Ricky said with a toothy grin as Ernst''s expression darkened into one of complete and utter malice.


    "Excuse me, Father, I need to wash out my eyes." Ernst said, walking past him with his Nazi medals clanking with each step.


    "Yeah, Father, don''t be too mad. He was probably told from a young age that all his relatives were ugly and short, which just makes him more confused when he sees me." Ricky called out loudly enough for Ernst to hear, stopping a short distance away.


    Ernst reached for his waist but, catching Abraham''s warning side-eye, he instead continued down the hall.


    "Child, must you antagonize him?" Father Sebastian asked, and Ricky paused to consider his response for a moment.


    "Yes." Ricky''s confirmation made Abraham laugh, while Father Sebastian gestured toward his room at the end of the hall.


    "The door at the end of the hall is yours. I''ll show your companions to their rooms." Father Sebastian informed Ricky as he walked toward it.


    "Make haste, young Ricky, for I''m exhausted from this trip." Alexander said, patting Ricky on the shoulder as Henry, instead of mocking him, nodded in agreement.


    As Ricky opened his door, he was greeted by a lackluster room with a very materialistic layout and without a second of hesitation, he simply plopped down onto the bed.


    "Young Ricky-"


    *RIP*


    Ricky ripped the blanket, apparently anticipating Alexander''s question, and tossed it onto the desk.


    Alexander swiftly repurposed the torn cloth into a makeshift bed, while Henry searched for a spot to settle.


    Ricky tossed himself onto his back, gazing up at the rustic ceiling before sighing and closing his eyes.


    Meanwhile in the hall,


    "Seb, I need to get back, Rachel is waiting on me-"


    "Old friend, I apologize, but you may only leave after the trials have concluded." Father Sebastian sighed, causing Abraham to grit his teeth.


    *BAM*


    Abraham threw a vase at the wall, and Father Sebastian closed his eyes, already aware of Abraham''s volatile nature and situation.


    "I''VE DONE EVERYTHING THEY''VE ASKED AND MORE, YET THEY SPIT ON MY FACE!" Abraham yelled in complete distress, while Father Sebastian nodded in understanding.


    "I know-"


    "NO YOU DON''T SEB, YOU DON''T KNOW WHAT IT''S LIKE-"


    *SIGH*


    "Nevermind." Abraham raised a hand and began to walk away, while Father Sebastian lowered his head, knowing he was powerless to help his friend.


    Disgruntled, Abraham walked outside the Vatican and saw Ernst waiting on the steps below.


    "Sir Abraham, do you have-"


    "No, f*ck off." Abraham walked past Ernst, who flinched before quickly scurrying to his side.


    "If you would give me a moment then-"


    "You have thirty seconds before I dropkick you into the nearby sea." Abraham said, pulling out his flask as Ernst adjusted himself nervously.


    "As a fellow pureblood of a noble family of the cross, you know as well as I do that it is crucial to maintain our ties to the church at all costs." Ernst said hurriedly, trying to keep up with Abraham''s fast pace.


    "However the sanctity of bloodlines only showed itself to me after seeing the Fuhrer''s teachings, the Nazi regime is trying to do something that most people don''t have the guts to-"


    "Alright, times up, f*ck off." Abraham pushed Ernst aside while continuing to walk away, causing Ernst''s nostrils to flare in frustration.


    "HE WILL NOT BEAT ME, THAT IMPURE MAN IS NO MATCH FOR A PURE BLOOD!" Ernst screeched as Abraham suddenly stopped and broke into hysterical laughter.


    "Looking past the fact that you''re literally not even half the man Ricky is, do you know why you won''t win?" Abraham asked, while Ernst squinted his eyes in confusion.


    "Because I can''t even beat him, and you''re just a kid in big boy clothes. So do us all a favor and scram." Abraham said, shooing him away before continuing his walk. Ernst gritted his teeth in response.


    "HE WILL NOT WIN, I, ERNST OF GALLES AND PROTECTORS OF THE REGIME WILL NOT LET THEM!" Ernst yelled at Abraham''s departing figure, clearly unimpressed by his words as he took a swig of his flask.


    "HEIL HITLER!"


    "HEIL HITLER!"


    "HEIL HITLER!"


    Next Morning


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    "Child, it is time for you to be presented to the council." Father Sebastian knocked on the door, and Ricky lifted his head.


    "Huh, oh." Ricky rubbed his eyes, reached for his shirt, and stumbled out of bed.


    With a swift motion, he scooped Alexander off his feet, while Henry perched comfortably on top of his head.


    "Good morning Child, did you sleep well?" Father Sebastian asked, as Ricky scratched his belly and hummed, rubbing his neck with the other hand.


    "Then let us go to the council," Father Sebastian said, gesturing for Ricky to follow as he smacked his lips together in mild annoyance.


    They walked through countless halls until they reached a room adorned with paintings covering every inch of the walls.


    "On the other end is the entrance to the Council," Father Sebastian said, pointing before spreading his hands.


    "And these walls display all the heroes of the Vatican, those who sacrificed everything for the greater good and God''s grace." Father Sebastion eagerly announced, stepping in front of one distinct painting.


    Ricky expected an explanation but received none. He walked over to Father Sebastian and looked at a painting labeled ''Sir Percival''.


    "This child is your ancestor, the original Black Knight," Father Sebastian continued, gesturing to the painting.


    Ricky felt a shiver of unease as he noticed how closely they resembled each other but unlike Ernst, who inherited his blue eyes and blond hair, Ricky had inherited Percival''s distinct structural features, with a jawline that seemed to cut through time itself and was transported onto his own.


    "He was a noble man, one who fought not only for the Round Table but for God himself." Father Sebastian said with a smile, recalling how the stories of the Black Knight had been his favorite to hear and tell growing up.


    Honestly, deep down, Father Sebastian''s reactions toward Ricky were influenced by inherent favoritism as although less known in the States, the Black Knight was a notable figure in Europe.


    "He''s pretty annoying if you ask me." Ricky scoffed and walked past Father Sebastian, who tilted his head in curiosity.


    "Annoying?" Father Sebastian asked as he hurried to catch up with Ricky, who swung open the door.


    Inside, a large council of high-ranking Vatican members sat, with the Pope positioned at the center.


    As Ricky entered, immediate whispers filled the room, the air buzzing with astonishment at how closely he resembled the portrait of Sir Percival.


    "Yeah, yeah, I sort of look like that Percival guy, but before we start, I want something from the church. And since you guys make up the church, listen up," Ricky suddenly demanded, addressing the high-ranking priests as Father Sebastian''s face went pale at Ricky''s boldness.


    "Child wait-"


    "You dare make demands in the house of god!" A bishop slammed his hand on the table, but Ricky merely shrugged.


    "I do or I shall, or whatever you weirdos say." Ricky said, walking to the center of the room to place himself in full view of everyone.


    "BLASPHEMY!"


    "THIS HUBRIS SHALL NOT STAND-"


    "Quiet." A man with round glasses softly uttered something, yet his voice clearly towered above all, even when it was the quietest.


    "Child, I understand that your upbringing may have been different, but in this holy house, I ask that you please conduct yourself in an appropriate manner." The man continued, crossing his hands together and looking down at Ricky.


    "And you are?" RRicky didn''t even try to follow his words as the man closed his eyes, then opened them again.


    "Pope Pius XII." Pius informed him, and Ricky raised an eyebrow, accompanied by a smile.


    "Then you''re the top brass here, right?" Ricky pointed at him in a boisterous manner, and while the others wanted to object, they couldn''t deny that, in a way, he was right.


    "From how you speak your words, I am." Pius nodded, while Father Sebastian, standing to the side, prayed quietly with his prayer beads.


    "Then before I start these trails, I need you to do something for me." Ricky informed Pius, who raised an eyebrow at his boldness.


    "And what is that child?"


    "My friend committed suicide, but I need you to give him a Catholic funeral." Ricky said, uttering words no one was prepared to accept as the room fell into silence.


    "That is impossible-" One of the bishops was about to shoot him down, but Pius raised his hand.


    "If you become the Black Knight, then you will have the authority to make such decisions on behalf of the church, as you will not only have a voice but also be one of the swords of God." Pius said suddenly, his soft words forcing exasperated expression causing all the members to rise to their feet.


    "Pius, this is an outrage!" One bishop yelled in disbelief, unable to believe Ricky''s, let alone the Pope''s, words.


    "Child, do you accept the trials put forth upon you by your blood and seek to bring about the glory of God?" Pius asked, ignoring the bishop as Ricky, all smiles, spread his arms in response.


    "Yeah, why not!" Ricky laughed maniacally, taunting the surrounding members of the high council who were in disarray at his lackluster acceptance.


    "Then place your blood on the center stone and receive your guide." Pius voice echoed submission in the surrounding disgruntled high council, gesturing to the stone monolith in front of him.


    "The souls of your ancestors that reside in the holy kingdom will be called down to guide you through these peerless trials. It is proof that you are worthy to partake in such a holy ritual." Pius informed him as the members all turned their gaze toward Ricky.


    If Ricky couldn''t summon an ancestor, it would prove he wasn''t who he claimed to be, and for those who opposed him, this was their last chance to expose him which is why the surroundings suddenly quieted down.


    He took the knife lying on the stone monolith, slashed his palm, and pressed it against the monolith, which began to glow with a black hue.


    They all closed their eyes, and when they opened them, they were greeted by the shocking sight of a figure never before summoned.


    "Sir Percival." Pius whispered under his breath as the mighty Sir Percival of Galles appeared in front of Ricky.


    But instead of reverence, Ricky looked at the figure materializing before him in clear annoyance.


    "Descendant-"


    "Oh great, it''s you," Ricky muttered sarcastically, rolling his eyes and cutting him off before Sir Percival could speak as the ghostly figure''s eyebrow twitched in response.


    "T-This is impossible." The bishop from earlier let out an exasperated sigh at the sight.


    "Greetings, members of the Council. You know me well, but I am truly on the side of this young and rude descendant of mine." Percival said, turning to the men in their robes, while Ricky clicked his tongue from the side.


    ''Great, now I can''t get rid of him.'' Ricky thought to himself with a slight sigh as the members looked on, unsure of what to make of the situation.


    "Sir Percival, it is an honor to be in your presence. But may I ask why you chose this one over Ernst, a member of your direct line?" The bishop asked, voicing the question everyone wanted to hear as Percival nodded in acknowledgment.


    "I saw a vision when Ernst first touched the black stone, and it was something I could have never imagined." Percival uttered with a knowing expression, his connection with the black stone was so profound that even in the next life, he remained bound to it, sensing its dark influence across the realms and even through time.


    "What did you see?" Pius asked, his eyes widening as Percival cast a light that illuminated unholy images swirling above them.


    "Ernst becomes consumed far faster than anyone previously in our family with the ebony blade and wreaks havoc across Europe," Percival spoke solemnly, his hands casting Ernst fate towards all the onlookers.


    As the ruthless display unfolded, the members of the assembly instinctively reached for their crosses, their faces etched with concern and resolve.


    The scenes unfolded like a bloody horror: thousands of innocent souls fell beneath Ernst''s blade, each life extinguished with brutal efficiency as the wielder, himself, bore a bloodthirsty smile, reveling in the carnage he orchestrated all around him.


    "I-It cannot be." The bishop spoke, though the images of Ernst killing women and children in cold blood were painfully clear to all of them.


    "And what of that child?" Pius spoke, his interest piqued by the decision, as Percival turned to Ricky as he looked up, a frown etched across his face as he took in the grim images.


    "I do not know; I cannot see his future," Percival admitted truthfully, leaving the others in uncertain contemplation.


    "However, that is why I have appeared to him, to guide him." Percival explained, promising his guidance to the young man beside him.


    "Then without further ado, per the rights of the succession of the Black Knight, the trials will begin tomorrow," Pius announced but through the destruction Ricky saw something different.


    The images were plastered all around Ricky, a grotesque tapestry of chaos and destruction.


    The blade in the vision cut mercilessly through anything in its path, men, women, children, and even the very structures that stood as symbols of civilization all crumbled beneath the smiling Ernst.


    However, instead of the horrified expressions seen on the faces of the other holy men, Ricky''s eyes shone with deep determination.


    The need for power, real power, first seeded within him during his initial defeat against Necrotis, and nurtured and watered by the overwhelming pain he had endured, coddled by the endless failures around him, and weathered by the trauma burrowed within him.


    Started to sprout.


    "Ricky Luciano, do you accept these conditions to take place within God''s home?" Pius asked as Ricky responded without his usual sleazy smile, his eyes fixed on the challenge ahead.


    For the first time since entering the holy sanctum, his expression was one of unwavering seriousness.


    "I do."


    Meanwhile in Ersnt''s quarters,


    "HE WAS CHOSEN BY PERCIVAL, THAT IS IMPOSSIBLE!" Ernst screeched, his anger erupting as he slapped the bishop who had previously spat out remarks at Ricky during the council.


    "Calm down child-"


    "HOW CAN I REMAIN CALM WHEN SOMEONE IS TRYING TO USURP MY BLOOD RIGHT!" Ernst roared, his eyes flickering with madness as he slapped the bishop.


    The bishop stared at the young man in horror, memories of their past together flashing through his mind.


    This was the very bishop who had taken Ernst in after his father succumbed to the madness of the sword, raising him as his own.


    From childhood, Ernst had been filled with promises of greatness, constantly pushed to his limits yet consistently achieving only lackluster results and a persistent sense of inadequacy.


    This relentless drive to prove everyone wrong and to validate his worth ultimately led him to join the Nazi regime, where he sought to fulfill the grandiose expectations imposed upon him.


    The teachings the bishop had tried to impart through his bloodline were twisted by the sadistic ideologies of the Nazis.


    They sought to monopolize Ernst''s strength for their own gain, and Ernst, deeply influenced by their promises, wholeheartedly embraced the regime''s dark ideals.


    Though he had once wished to be destined for glory and to fight for God, that dream had long since morphed into something unholy, something that the bishop could only now fully recognize.


    "LEAVE ME BE!" Ernst yelled, shoving the bishop aside with a surge of rage, causing the old man to scurry away, leaving Ernst alone in the dimly lit chamber.


    Gritting his teeth, Ernst pulled out a letter sealed with a capsule, his eyes blazing with hatred as he stared at the repugnant document and despite his revulsion, he forced himself to tear it open.


    Dear Ernst,


    I know you think of our race as nothing but scum, but I assure you that is not the case. Although we are divided by our beliefs, we are united by the regime. I wish for us to settle this misunderstanding between us here and now. You are mighty and strong, but if there is ever a time when you thirst for more power, this vial shall suffice in that endeavor.


    Sincerely,


    Baron Blood.


    Ernst harbored a deep-seated contempt for Baron Blood, yet he endured the vampire''s presence out of allegiance to the Reich.


    Despite his loathing for vampires, the allure of the power Baron Blood promised weighed heavily on him.


    "Son, please do not succumb to your hatred-"


    "CEASE YOUR WORDS, FATHER!" Ernst turned to the ancestral figure meant to guide him, his own father.


    "I will do what I must to claim the birthright you left me for." Ernst declared, gripping the vial tightly as his anger overshadowed his reasoning.


    "Whatever the cost, I must take the first step towards my destiny., I must become the Black Knight"

 Chapter 71 - 70: Cave Of Regrets

    Chapter 71: Chapter 70: Cave Of Regrets


    1 hour later,


    "Ricky!"


    *BAM*


    The door burst open, and there stood Father Sebastian, his robe slightly askew and his hair in disarray.


    "Ernst has entered the cave, you must follow now!" Father Sebastian''s voice rang out in a sharp, urgent cry as he stood in the doorway, his eyes locked on Ricky.


    Panic flickered in his gaze, his chest rising and falling quickly and Ricky, caught mid-motion with a piece of bread poised near his mouth, froze as the weight of Sebastian''s alarm settled in the room.


    "Can I finish my-"


    "There is no time, Ersnt has initiated the trails meaning you must go now!'' Father Sebastion informed, rushing to Ricky and pulling him towards his feet before leading him down the hall.


    "I literally just sat down father-"


    "By the rules, once a successor enters, the others must enter right after." Percival appeared at his side with a knowing expression, quickly offering an explanation to Ricky who was currently showing an annoyed gaze.


    "These rules are so f*cking stupid-"


    "Language, child," Father Sebastian interrupted as they descended the ancient spiral staircase into the depths of the Vatican.


    The atmosphere grew heavy with an ominous presence, pressing down on Ricky as they approached a vast cavern.


    At its entrance stood a weeping woman carved into the stone, her expression haunting and with a slow, grating sound, the gate began to scratch open.


    "That''s not creepy at all," Ricky muttered under his breath, his eyes fixed on the gates creaking open before him.


    The slow, deliberate movement made him feel a little foreboding, but he took a step forward regardless.


    Glancing over his shoulder, he noticed Percival lingering behind, rooted in place, his face unreadable.


    "Are you not coming?" Ricky asked, his voice tinged with confusion as he turned to face Percival who merely shook his head.


    "The Cave of Regrets is the only trial I cannot help you in," Percival said, his tone solemn and unwavering.


    Immediately upon hearing the words, Ricky stopped in his tracks, his brow furrowing in confusion as he turned to face him.


    "The what?" Ricky stared at Percival, dumbfounded, his confusion deepening.


    The weight of Percival''s words hadn''t fully sunk in, but the unease in his voice was undeniable.


    "There are three trails; the cave of regrets, the approval of the past, and the dual of blood-"


    "Wait, wait, wait, did you say this is the cave of regrets?" Ricky pointed at the completely void of darkness in front of him with a slightly foreboding feeling as Percival raised an eyebrow.


    "Yes, Ricky," Father Sebastian said anxiously, his voice barely steady while trying to gesture him in.


    "This is the real Garden Tomb of Jesus Christ, the very place from which he transcended to Heaven." Father Sebastion continued his explanation, his eyes wide, pleading for Ricky to understand quickly.


    "In it, Jesus was said to have confronted all his regrets, everything he endured on Earth, and accepted his past. Only then did he ascend." Father Sebastian finished speaking, his eyes searching Ricky''s for some sign of understanding. But instead, Ricky took a slow step back, his hesitation clear.


    "Listen, Descendant." Percival''''s voice softened, trying to steady Ricky''s nerves.


    "This cave manifests all your regrets, everything you bury deep, and traps you inside until you come to terms with them. But if you''re worried, only you will know what you see. No one else will witness it but you." Percival words, though meant to be reassuring, carried an undeniable weight, leaving Ricky completely in a panicked state.


    "Whoa, why didn''t anyone tell me about this?" Ricky said, his voice edged with disbelief.


    The sheer number of regrets crowding Ricky''s mind made the prospect of facing them feel insurmountable.


    His entire past life and current had been a relentless effort to bury these regrets, shoving them into the deepest corners of his consciousness.


    Percival raised an eyebrow from the side, a hint of curiosity in his gaze as he observed Ricky''s reaction, perhaps pondering why this was such a shock.


    "Ricky, it is the easiest of the three-"


    "Child, there is no time, you must enter and exit within twenty-four hours, or you will be lost within its depths forever." Father Sebastian urged, his voice growing more insistent as he hurried him forward, but Ricky remained rooted to the spot.


    "Wait so, what will I see? " Ricky asked Percival, clearly uncomfortable and seeking clarification, while Percival regarded him with an understanding expression.


    "Everything you''ve truly regretted will be shown to you, and you must overcome it all." Percival said with a smile, his hand pointing forward but Ricky shook his head in disbelief, while Father Sebastian bit his lip.


    "Nevermind, I''m not doing that-WHAT THE!" Ricky, in his efforts to suddenly stop whatever he would see, stopped paying attention for a split second, and in that moment, Father Sebastian pushed him into the encroaching darkness.


    "YOU MOTHERF-"


    *BAM*


    The boulder slammed shut behind Ricky, and he was immediately plunged into darkness.


    It felt as though he were plummeting off a cliff, the sensation of falling and descending deeper into the abyss overwhelming his senses as the oppressive blackness closed in around him, each moment stretching into an eternal void.


    "May god be with you Child." Father Sebastion gave him a silent prayer, asking for forgiveness for his shrewdness not from Ricky, but God.


    *Thump*


    Ricky collided with the ground, his eyes snapping shut for a moment from the impact.


    When he opened them again, he was met with a strangely familiar scene, as if he had been here before or was reliving a memory as the surroundings seemed to shift and breathe with an eerie, unsettling familiarity.


    "Slick, are you okay?" Trevor tapped Ricky''s cheek, his figure looming over him in a sharp dress suit, surrounded by a crowd of people.


    Ricky looked around in confusion, trying to make sense of the scene unfolding before him, his bewildered gaze darting between Trevor and the unfamiliar faces surrounding him.


    "What is-" Ricky let out a breathless sigh, at a complete loss, and turned to the side as there, in the reflection of a glass window, he saw his own image staring back at him that wasn''t what he was used to.


    "DADDY!" Jessica lunged at him, her face a mix of urgency and relief, while Ricky instinctively caught his daughter.


    Sam, her now husband, stood nearby, patting Ricky''s shoulder with an overwhelming smile that radiated gratitude for saving Jessica.


    "Buddy, you''re alright!" Dan flashed a toothy smile as he gazed at Ricky, who stood unscathed.


    He dropped the bloodied driver to the ground, the one who was driving that car that barely missed him, with a relieved expression.


    Ricky, still holding Jessica clinging and crying in his rented suit, pushed himself to his feet.


    "What happened, what''s happening?" Ricky asked, his voice tinged with disbelief, as he looked down and saw his old appearance.


    He patted his body all over, as if trying to convince himself that it was truly him, the familiar contours and sensations stirring memories he had thought long forgotten.


    "You don''t remember?" Sam asked, a hint of surprise in his voice and Trevor let out a sigh, though his smile remained.


    "That jerk over there almost hit Jessica, and you pushed her out of the way, saving her once again." Trevor said, his tone carrying a note of admiration for once as Ricky scratched his head, feeling a wave of confusion.


    "I-this-but-" Ricky stumbled with his words, trying to make sense of it before regaining himself.


    "Sweety, can you give me a second?" Ricky asked, and Jessica nodded, allowing him to step back.


    As he took a good look around, he realized it wasn''t the old New York he had grown accustomed to.


    Instead, it was a skyline filled with towering skyscrapers, the bustling cityscape unmistakably marking the twenty-first century.


    "But wasn''t I-didn''t I die?" Ricky was completely and utterly confused by the situation, trying to grasp at straws that always seemed to slip away in his mind.


    He turned around to face his reflection, which revealed his old self, as if his next life had been nothing more than a dream.


    He rubbed his head, struggling to piece together the fragments of reality and make sense of the surreal scene before him.


    "I need a drink." Ricky let out a sigh and walked back into the venue, his mind reeling from the confusion as Trevor rolled his eyes.


    "Of course you do." Trevor scoffed, watching as Ricky made his way through the anxious crowd and disappeared into the bar.


    "Slick didn''t I say you were cut off-" The bartender pointed at Ricky, putting away the bottle of bourbon as Ricky had a sudden thought.


    *Inaudible mutter*


    *DING*


    *BAM*


    Ricky muttered a word under his breath, and in an instant, he drove his fist into the bartender''s face, sending him staggering backward.


    Ricky leaned over the bar, his hand hovering inches from grabbing the bartender, but he clenched the edge tightly instead.


    For a moment, he questioned his sanity, doubting the reality of his second chance at life as his knuckles turned white from the force with which he gripped the bar as he whispered a single, fateful word.


    ''Status.''


    "F*cking hell, this isn''t real."Ricky let out a curse under his breath, feeling both unnerved and oddly relieved.


    The bartender, brushing himself off and chuckling, pulled himself to his feet and set a glass down beside Ricky.


    "You are correct, this is not real." The bartender smiled, and in that moment, everything around Ricky seemed to freeze, isolating just the two of them.


    The bustling bar fell silent, the world narrowing to the shared space between Ricky and the bartender.


    "I am the manifestation of your regret for what could''ve been." The bartender said with a bright smile, nodding toward Ricky.


    Ricky''s expression grew wary, the weight of the bartender''s words settling heavily on him as he tried to process the gravity of the revelation.


    "What are you-"


    "Slick, even though you''re relieved to have a chance to start over, part of you still regrets leaving this world too soon." The bartender said, spreading his arms as Ricky glanced at the bottle in his hand, the bartender''s words resonating with a troubling truth.


    "I mean, your current life is a hundred times better than this one, yet a part of you remains regretful and trapped here. Isn''t that something?" The bartender poured himself a glass of bourbon, the amber liquid catching the light as he took a measured sip.


    "So, is there something I need to do in order to-" Ricky scoffed, gazing at his empty shot glass, proning for a complicated answer only to receive an interruption.


    "No, the way to pass this part is to simply walk through that door." The bartender said, pointing behind him.


    Ricky turned to see a red door standing alone in the middle of the bar, its presence oddly out of place amid the familiar surroundings.


    "That''s it." Ricky glanced back at him, raising an eyebrow at how straightforward it all seemed while the bartender took another sip of bourbon, unfazed.


    "That''s it." The bartender mused thoughtfully, causing Ricky to frown but still, he stood up and made his way to the door.


    "That is, if you want to leave." The bartender smiled as everything around him slowly unfroze with Trevor walking into the scene.


    "What''s the catch, though?" Ricky finally asked, turning back to see the bartender wiping a glass.


    "Nothing." The bartender replied, his tone casual.


    "But if you stay, everything will play out as if you never left and actually survived that day." The bartender tempted him, giving him another chance at his past life.


    Ricky scoffed, dismissing the challenge as easy, and turned his attention back to the door, ready to confront whatever lay beyond.


    "Hey Dad, can we talk for a second?" Trevor spoke up just as Ricky''s hand rested on the doorknob.


    "It''s just that, I was wondering if you''d like to come over and meet your grandkids-" Trevor, looking nervous, said as he glanced down momentarily but when he looked up again, Ricky was already walking through the door, disappearing from view.


    *BAM*


    The door slammed shut behind Ricky with a resounding thud, and the bartender''s laughter echoed in the emptiness.


    As the sound of his mirth lingered, the image of Trevor began to fade away as if he was nothing more than a mirage.


    "As expected of me." The bartender said with a satisfied smile.


    As his words lingered in the air, everything around him began to dissolve, and he faded into obscurity, leaving nothing behind but the echo of his self-assured grin.


    "Ugh." Ricky grunted out in announcing, appearing in front of a different bartender who gestured to the seat in front of him.


    "And what are you supposed to be?" Ricky asked, eyeing the bartender as he smiled and continued cleaning the glass in his hand.


    "I''m the regret of what could have been." The bartender replied with a knowing wink as he patted the counter with a casual air, as if the answer was as simple as the gesture.


    "Come on, sit." The bartender began to speak, but as Ricky turned around, he found the same bartender standing right in front of him.


    "I can''t leave can I-"


    "Nope." The bartender smiled, a hint of amusement in his eyes as Ricky frowned but reluctantly dragged himself over to the bar.


    "So what''s your shtick?" Ricky sighed heavily, settling onto the stool at the counter as the bartender laughed.


    "Well, one of your regrets is abandoning all your lovers in the past when things got rough, so I''m going to give you an option, a choice." The bartender said, setting a shot glass in front of him as Ricky raised an eyebrow in response.


    "Either you confront a random lover or you pass on them by taking a shot until you choose the one you confront." The bartender proposed, placing a shot glass before Ricky and filling it to the brim.


    "What''s the catch?" Ricky asked, heaving out another sigh as the bartender nodded in response.


    "You cannot skip the last person I have for you." The bartender said, his tone firm while leaning on the counter and looking him dead in the eye.


    "You must see the life you could''ve had with them if you had stayed." The bartender finished his foreboding words with a chuckle, leaning back as he casually wiped a clean glass.


    Ricky frowned, his gaze shifting to the shot glass before him, the weight of the bartender''s words settling heavily in his mind.


    "Second option-"


    "Ricky?" A black woman appeared next to him, revealing herself as the sister of Ricky''s loan shark as she sat down a pregnancy test with a slam of her hand.


    "I''m pregnant and you''re the father-"


    *Gulp*


    Ricky downed the first shot with a determined gulp, catching the bartender by surprise.


    The bartender shrugged, a hint of amusement in his eyes, and nonetheless began preparing another shot.


    *Sniff*


    "Did you really never love me-"


    "Seriously, I didn''t even love Jennete." Ricky interrupted the crying girl, pointing at the busty brown-haired woman behind him as the bartender merely shrugged.


    "Hey, there your regrets and not mine, don''t get mad at me." The bartender laughed as Ricky took the shot.


    An Asian girl appeared next, but Ricky just laughed and downed another shot, continuing the pattern with determined resolve.


    "What is this, water?" Ricky asked the bartender with an incredulous expression, clearly unfazed and not even slightly buzzed.


    "It''s a metaphor-"


    "Of course it is." Ricky rolled his eyes, but when he turned around after downing about twenty more shots, he found that no one was there.


    The space was empty, each of Ricky''s past relationships burning through his mind in a matter of seconds, all while the bartender observed with a detached gaze.


    "Wait, is that everyone-"


    "Since you took the second option, the one I have for you is beyond that door." The bartender pointed his gaze to the side as Ricky sighed once more, his shoulders slumping as he slowly stood up, bracing himself for whatever lay ahead.


    "When I open it, will there be another one of you guys there?" Ricky asked, but the bartender simply shook his head, offering no further explanation.


    "No, after me, you will have to guide yourself through it." The bartender informed him.


    Ricky downed the shot in a single gulp and then walked purposefully toward the white door, ready to face whatever awaited him beyond.


    "Good luck, Slick." The bartender cheered Ricky on, his voice filled with encouragement, as Ricky grunted with effort while pushing open the door.


    "Luck''s for chumps." Ricky offered his parting words, and as he stepped through the door, the bartender returned to his task, calmly cleaning his glass once more.


    "So it is."


    Ricky opened the door, and a blinding light seemed to consume him and when his eyes finally adjusted, he found himself on a porch.


    "Dad?" Trevor asked, raising an eyebrow, while holding one child in his arms and guiding another by his side.


    "Grandpa!" The kid exclaimed with excitement as he ran towards Ricky, who frowned at the unexpected and unsettling scene unfolding before him.


    Just as the kid was about to lunge at Ricky, he thrust out his hand and stiff-armed the child''s head, stopping him in his tracks.


    "I know this isn''t real and you''re not Trevor, since he''s never once let me see his kids." Ricky said with clear annoyance, pointing at him as Trevor''s expression shifted to one of confusion and discomfort as he processed Ricky''s words.


    "Uh, Dad, I come with the kids every other weekend for dinner with you and Mom," Trevor said, his tone laced with confusion.


    Ricky''s eyes widened, trembling slightly, as he turned around to see a familiar woman he never thought he''d see again.


    "Honey, what are you doing standing there? Go set the table like I asked you to," The woman said with a warm smile, giving Ricky a gentle smack on the chest.


    Ricky took a step back, his expression a mix of shock and disbelief as he struggled to process the surreal scene.


    "Cindy?" Ricky asked, his voice tinged with bafflement as he struggled to reconcile the sight of her with the reality he knew, unable to fathom why she would be here or why she was looking at him with a smile.


    "Mom, is he okay?" Trevor asked, handing Cindy the baby as she kissed its forehead affectionately while rolling her eyes, a gesture of both tenderness and exasperation.


    "Your father always likes to go too far with his little joke escapades. Just ignore him," Cindy said, beckoning Trevor inside with a mix of amusement and resignation.


    Once the door closed, Ricky bolted off the patio and into the nearby field, which stretched endlessly with crops as far as the eye could see.


    He ran through the vast expanse until, overcome by exhaustion, he collapsed onto the ground.


    Lying there, he huffed with each breath, covering his face as his heart pounded like a drum.


    "Are you done?" Cindy leaned over him, her hair dripping down as Ricky avoided her gaze.


    "Stop pretending to be my Cindy." Ricky scoffed, turning his head away from her as he struggled to maintain a strong front while his nerves churned inside.


    "The real Cindy would''ve slapped me if she''d seen me like this or just seen me in general." Ricky knew this wasn''t real, yet he couldn''t bring himself to meet her eyes as Cindy chuckled and bent down to pat his head.


    "That''s true." Cindy gave him a warm smile as she gently ran her fingers through his slicked-back hair.


    "Then what do you want from me?" Ricky finally turned to the smiling Cindy, who gently kissed his forehead, stroking his cheek.


    "I want you to spend a day in the life we always dreamed about when we were still together," Cindy said, spreading her hands out in a sweeping gesture as Ricky took in the view all around him.


    "We dreamed about being on a farm, what a shitty dream that was," Ricky said, his laced thich with cynicism but Cindy laughed at his words, patting his cheek.


    "But it was a happy one, a dream that could''ve been fulfilled if you had just given it a chance," Cindy said with that same warm smile, extending her hand to Ricky, who still remained extremely hesitant.


    "One day, just spend one day with me, and you can finally let go once and for all," Cindy urged, her voice gentle but firm.


    Ricky clicked his tongue, wrestling with his doubts, but ultimately took her hand and in an instant, they appeared outside the house, the scene shifting to what could have been.


    Walking in, Ricky saw Jessica and Sam already seated at the table, chatting animatedly with Trevor and his significant other.


    "Hi daddy!" Jessica beamed him a warm smile and waved, while Sam gave him a nod and a smile that made Ricky feel uncomfortable, the sincerity in Sam''s expression seeming almost too earnest.


    "Hi grandpa!" The boy waved at him with admiration and Ricky, feeling a bit sheepish, glanced at the kid before nodding in return.


    "Dad, are you alright?" Trevor asked with slight concern, noticing that Ricky seemed more awkward than usual.


    "I''m sure Ricky is alright; he''s probably just still a little mad that his little girl was stolen from him," Nora, Trevor''s wife, joked as her comment eased the tension, and everyone laughed immediately.


    "Come on, Ricky, you sit at the head of the table," Cindy said, planting a kiss on his cheek as she guided him to his seat as Sam laughed at the scene.


    "Well, if our marriage turns out half as good as yours, then I''m sure we''ll be just fine." Sam said with a heartfelt smile, while Jessica rested her hand on his with a heartfelt grin.


    "Oh Sammy~" Jessica kissed his cheek, deeply touched by the sweet words from her new husband.


    "Now, let''s dig in shall we?" Cindy wasted no time and promptly began the family dinner.


    Ricky could only describe the atmosphere as unexpectedly smooth, a rarity compared to his past experiences.


    He often stumbled through heartfelt moments, leaving them in shambles which was why he was so surprised that, despite his nervousness, everything seemed to fall into place, defying his expectations of disaster.


    Trevor didn''t cast his usual disappointed glare; Jessica didn''t need to cover for his mistakes; and Cindy was simply present, adding to the ease of the evening.


    The dinner ended on a cheerful note, with everyone departing in good spirits and Cindy walked the last of the two newlyweds to the door, rounding off the evening with a sense of contentment.


    "Now have fun in Cabo, you two! Bring me back a souvenir!" Cindy called out, waving as she watched them leave.


    Once the door closed, she turned around to find Ricky seated at the dinner table, drinking straight from a wine bottle.


    It still didn''t taste like anything, but the hope of getting drunk fueled him to drink even more.


    "Where did it all go wrong, Cindy?" Ricky asked Cindy in an aggrieved tone, who smiled and walked over to sit next to him.


    Cindy didn''t respond right away; instead, she grabbed the bottle, poured herself a drink, and laughed at his words.


    "Oh Ricky, we both know where it is wrong." Cindy looked up at him with a sad frown as she took a sip, noticing Ricky''s silence, showing he wasn''t going to add to her comment.


    *Sigh*


    "It went wrong when everything was going so right. Why couldn''t you let us be happy?" Cindy asked, clutching his hand and gazing deeply into his distressed eyes.


    "Why couldn''t you let yourself be happy-"


    "This is stupid." Ricky scoffed, pushing himself away and standing up, pacing back and forth.


    "Can''t you just yell at me or throw your drink in my face? Seriously, I''m actually begging you," Ricky said in a desperate manner, placing his hands together in a pleading gesture.


    "I knocked you up TWICE, and not only that, I slept with your mother and cousin. On a lighter note, I honestly think that little Geoffry might be my bastard, but I''m only 70% sure," Ricky said, trying to distract the gravity of the situation around him with humor.


    But Cindy only shook her head, taking another sip, clearly unimpressed by his attempt to deflect away from the conversation.


    "You did that after I pressed you about a ring, Ricky. Can''t you simply admit that you did all those things because you were afraid of being happy?" Cindy continued to probe the scar on his heart, but Ricky just shook his head.


    "When will you forgive yourself for what happened to Danielle-"


    "Don''t, do not finish that f*cking sentence," Ricky said, his eyes dangerous as he pointed at Cindy, who sighed.


    "That is not why I ruined us-" Ricky began, trying to retort with more lies, but Cindy saw through his attempts.


    "And here we are, back to the start." Cindy leaned back, Ricky plopping down and collapsing his head into his hands.


    "Alright, you want the truth? I was afraid you''d be happier without me, constantly ruining your life. Okay?!" Ricky looked up, confessing why he left Cindy as she smiled at his words.


    "I was a wreck when you found me, and I didn''t want to keep hurting you, showing up late, waking up a baby Jessica, f*cking up Trevor''s life with my crappy personality. I wanted you to smile when all I ever did was make you cry." Ricky let out his grievances, leaning back in the chair and grabbing the bottle of wine, taking a long swig.


    Ricky finally confronted his lies and revealed to Cindy the real reason he left all those years ago, choosing to face the truth rather than taking the cowardly route that would have caused her so much pain that she''d be forced to break up with him first.


    "If I wanted to drink f*cking water then I would''ve gotten a fresca from the fridge." Ricky gritted his teeth, frustrated that he couldn''t drink away his feelings as he threw the bottle aside in exasperation, and Cindy chuckled as she stood up.


    "Thank you, Ricky, for finally telling me how you really felt all those years ago." Cindy said with gratitude, plopping down on his lap and kissing his cheek tenderly.


    Ricky caressed her back, still sulking while Cindy rested her head on his shoulder while they sat in a comfortable silence, cherishing each other''s embrace.


    "Can we-"


    "I was waiting for you to ask," Cindy smiled seductively, her eyes twinkling with playful affection.


    [Really short R18]


    Ricky swept Cindy up in a princess carry, her laughter ringing joyfully through the air as he held her close.


    The warmth of her body against his, their hearts beating in sync, created a tender connection between them.


    As Ricky spun her around, Cindy''s arms wrapped around his neck, pulling him closer as their laughter echoed toward the bedroom.


    Their gazes locked, brimming with unspoken words of love and longing, before they tumbled onto the bed.


    Their lips met in a passionate kiss, Ricky leaning down as Cindy cupped his face in her hands and gradually, they pulled away, their breaths mingling as they slowly drifted apart.


    "God, you were one of a kind." Ricky smiled and kissed her palm, receiving a raised eyebrow in response.


    "Were?" Cindy laughed, which only made Ricky laugh as well as he continued to kiss her palm, their joy and affection palpable.


    "My bad, you still are one of a kind." Ricky chuckled as Cindy pulled him closer.


    "That''s better."


    As Ricky and Cindy''s lips met once more in a slow, passionate dance, their kisses deepened with each lingering touch.


    Their laughter faded into a haze of desire, their bodies moving together as if they''ve danced this tango a million times before.


    The bedroom around them became a sanctuary of whispered promises and heated gazes, the air thick with anticipation.


    Ricky''s hands traced the curves of Cindy''s body, his touch igniting a trail of shivers along her skin.


    She moaned softly into his mouth as he remembered the way she reacted to his touch, pulling him closer as they melted into each other''s embrace.


    Clothes were shed with a sense of urgency and reverence, each layer revealing more of their hunger and devotion.


    "I''ve missed you, I still miss you." Ricky murmured between kisses, his voice husky.


    "You''re such a flirt." Cindy didn''t buy it, and Ricky smiled widely at her disbelief, continuing to scatter tender kisses across her body.


    Cindy''s response was a wordless plea as she guided him onto her, their bodies entwined in a fervent embrace.


    "Ha~" Cindy let out a refreshed sigh as she felt Ricky slip into her pussy, the very same that had given him two beautiful children.


    Ricky felt lost in Cindy, who was both his first love and the last person he ever wanted to hurt.


    This deep affection made him especially gentle with her as Cindy smiled, taking his hand and pressing it against her cheek as he moved slowly inside her.


    "Ah~" Cindy moaned softly, and Ricky bit his lip, reflecting on how foolish he had been to let someone as special as her slip away.


    "Ricky~" Cindy moaned, closing her eyes and losing herself to the sensation.


    Ricky couldn''t resist the urge to pull Cindy closer, his heart pounding with a blend of desire and relief.


    Her moans were music to his ears, each breathy utterance driving him deeper into her being.


    "Cindy~" Ricky whispered her name like a prayer, his movements becoming more urgent yet still tender.


    He kissed her deeply, his lips seeking reassurance in the heat of their embrace while Cindy''s fingers traced along his back, nails gently grazing his skin as she surrendered completely to the intoxicating pleasure of their union.


    In that moment, nothing existed beyond the touch and connection they shared, a bond strengthened by years of love and longing.


    Ricky cherished every sigh, every whimper that escaped Cindy''s lips, knowing that this, here and now, was where he belonged yet knowing that he could never really stay.


    "You always knew how to make my body bend to you~" Cindy whispered sweet words into his ear that made his spine tingle.


    "You always did this, always revving me up on purpose." Ricky chuckled, kissing her tempting lips with that sleazy smile he always adorned.


    Cindy''s soft moans echoed in the room, mingling with the sound of their rapid breaths and the gentle rustling of sheets.


    Ricky, overwhelmed by the depth of his emotions, caressed her cheek, tracing the contours of her face as if memorizing every detail.


    In that intimate space, time seemed to slow down, allowing them to savor the intensity of their connection.


    They moved together, bodies moving in perfect harmony, their union a celebration of their shared history and the unspoken promises of their future.


    Cindy nestled closer, her fingers entwined with his, knowing that in Ricky''s embrace, she had found her home while whispering a moan into his ear.


    "I''m cumming Ricky~" Cindy seductively whispered, kissing his ear afterwards while closing her eyes while letting herself be taken by Ricky''s being.


    Ricky held onto Cindy tightly, thrusting gently but with enough force for them to truly feel each other''s pleasure.


    His cock feeling at home within Cindy, throbbing while her wall''s twitched violently until Ricky let out one thrust.


    As they both reached their climaxes, they embraced tightly, feeling the full force of each other''s love and connection.


    [End of really short R18]


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Lying on the bed with Cindy held tightly in his arms, they stared at the ceiling as he rubbed her shoulder slowly and gently.


    "What now?" Ricky turned to Cindy, who rested her head on his chest, their bodies intertwined in a comfortable embrace.


    "Now, it''s time to say goodbye." Cindy looked up with a teary gaze as Ricky hesitated, unsure if he could walk away from her at this moment.


    "Can''t I stay-"


    "You can, but you know I wouldn''t want that for you." Cindy caressed his chest gently as Ricky laid his head on the pillow as he turned his gaze to the side, noticing a door nearby.


    "I''m sorry for ruin-"


    "You didn''t ruin my life Ricky, I chose to be with you." Cindy kissed his cheek and gave him a warm, reassuring smile.


    "But not everything works out the way we want it to, and that''s why you could never let go." Cindy said, patting his chest as she stood up, throwing his clothes at him.


    "Now get out of here." Cindy playfully teased as Ricky sighed but reluctantly put on his clothes.


    Standing up, he glanced back one last time to see Cindy waving goodbye as he gave her a final smile before stepping through the door.


    *THUMP*


    A familiar room appeared before his eyes, causing his pupils to shake violently, as if in an earthquake while his breath began to come in rapid, shallow gasps.


    "No, no, no-"


    "Ricky, will you read me a bedtime story?" A little girl''s voice asked cutely from behind Ricky, causing him to suddenly go pale at her mere voice.


    "Ricky?" The girl called out in confusion, but Ricky refused to turn around, covering his ears and scrunching into a ball.


    "Ricky, I know you can hear me." The girl called out, gently tapping his shoulder, but Ricky''s breathing began to quicken.


    Ricky''s chest tightened, each breath coming in short gasps as his heart hammered in his chest, its rhythm erratic and loud in his ears.


    Sweat beaded on his forehead as his vision blurred and his hands trembled uncontrollably.


    He felt trapped, overwhelmed by a sense of impending doom, as if the walls were closing in around him.


    Panic surged through him, a wave of fear and helplessness that threatened to drown him as he closed his eyes, trying to calm himself, but the panic only seemed to intensify.


    Ricky muttered, shutting his eyes tightly and pressing his palms against his ears to block out the noise but despite his efforts, the words still trickled through.


    "Will you read me a bedtime story, please Ricky-"


    "NO!" Ricky yelled as he opened his eyes, facing the unsettling sight of a young girl who eerily resembled Sofia.


    "Not today Danielle, I have plans." Behind Ricky stood his younger self, a teenage version of him shaking his head with an annoyed expression.


    "I quit."


    Author''s Note: The status is really big and I saw the commetns so I just made an auxillary Chapter m

 Chapter 72 - 71: Approval Of The Past

    Chapter 72: Chapter 71: Approval Of The Past


    "I quit, I F*CKING QUIT!" Ricky''s scream tore through the air, a raw, visceral outburst that echoed the turmoil within him.


    The scene before him had struck a chord deeper than anything he had ever felt, pushing his emotions to their breaking point.


    "I DON''T WANT TO BE THE STUPID BLACK KNIGHT ANYMORE! ERNST WINS, SO LET ME THE F*CK OUT OF HERE!" Ricky screamed, his voice trembling with desperation, but no matter how fiercely he wished for an escape, the scene refused to change.


    "Alright, it''s a promise." Danielle offered a sad, knowing smile as Ricky covered his eyes, struggling to hold back his emotions.


    The little girl, sitting on her neatly made bed, was his long-lost half-sister Danielle, now just a haunting memory.


    This was one of the most painful fragments of his past he had always refused to face, desperately burying any recollection of her.


    But as he turned to escape, he found himself thrown into another scene.


    "Ricky, can we play go-fish-"


    "I can''t Danielle, I''m going out with friends, next time I promise." Ricky waved her off and walked out through the door, but the present-day Ricky suddenly jerked his head to the side, as if trying to escape the memory unfolding before him.


    "Alright, it''s a promise." Danielle reappeared, her sad smile lingering as she slowly lowered her head, the door closing in front of her with a quiet finality.


    Ricky stumbled backward, turning just in time to see Danielle rushing forward, clutching something tightly to her chest while his past self descended the stairs.


    "Hey Ricky, I found this really cool movie-" Danielle, her eyes sparkling like stars, held it above her head with a toothy smile, brimming with hope.


    But his past self only sighed, letting her excitement fade into the silence as he walked towards the door.


    "Nope, busy. Promise I''ll play next time." Ricky waved her off once more, closing the door behind him.


    "Alright, it''s a promise." Danielle slowly lowered the movie in her hand, her smile fading as she watched the door swing shut in her face once more.


    That same understanding, sad smile crept back onto her face, yet the past Ricky didn''t even care to spare her a glance.


    "Hey Ricky, do you want to play hopscotch?"


    "Hey Ricky, let''s just talk-"


    "Hey Ricky, I found dad''s old board games-"


    "Hey Ricky-"


    "Hey Ricky-"


    "Hey Ricky-"


    "Hey Ricky-"


    "Hey Ricky-"


    Every direction Ricky looked, he was met with scenes of neglect, the words echoing relentlessly around him.


    Danielle''s attempts to reach out continued, each time met with his turning away, until Ricky finally stopped moving, unable to escape the haunting repetition and finally gazed forward.


    "Ricky, is it true what Daddy said before he went away?" Danielle tugged at Ricky''s shirt, her voice trembling with uncertainty before he could walk out.


    "Who cares about that loser anyway? Just forget about him." Ricky said dismissively, brushing her off but Danielle fidgeted with her fingers, her gaze downcast, as he walked out the door.


    "But he said I wasn''t his daughter." Danielle''s words struck his past self like a tidal wave, freezing him in place at the doorway. In the present, his face flushed with sudden, seething anger.


    "Don''t you say it, don''t you f*cking say it-" Ricky ground his teeth together, pointing an accusing finger at his past self.


    "Yeah, you''re not his daughter, so just stop thinking about him, alright?" Ricky tried to push her to move on in his own way, but his words only left Danielle devastated.


    *Sniff*


    "I''m not?" Danielle sniffed, her eyes filling with tears as the past version of Ricky hesitated at the door, visibly unsettled by her response.


    "Y-Yes." Ricky''s voice wavered with guilt as he delivered the painful news, while Danielle tugged at his shirt once more, her eyes pleading.


    "Can you stay with me today?" Danielle asked, her voice quivering with tears threatening to fall as the present Ricky''s heart shattered into tiny pieces, already knowing the answer.


    "N-No, I''ve got to go." Ricky fled through the door, escaping from the problem he had created as he left Danielle standing alone, her sadness deepening in his wake.


    He stood there, his face etched with heartbreak, as he watched Danielle''s tears fall slowly.


    Finally, he sank into a nearby chair, his face buried in his hands as he succumbed to his own anguish.


    "What is wrong with me?" Ricky asked himself, his voice heavy with despair, as he confronted the reflection of his own flaws.


    It was a moment of reckoning, forcing him to finally face the music and after taking a deep breath, he looked up, only to find that the scene had shifted.


    "Ricky!" Danielle rushed to his side as he collapsed onto the floor, clearly having drunk himself into a state of numbness.


    "Shut up~" Ricky muttered through a drunken slur before slamming face-first into the ground.


    *BAM*


    "RICKY!" Danielle cried out urgently, running to his side and tapping his cheek with tearful eyes but he was too far gone to stir.


    Alone with only each other for company, Danielle began to push and struggle to carry Ricky up to his bed on the second floor.


    She employed every method and contraption she could think of, her determination unwavering.


    The present Ricky watched in heartache as his younger sister exhausted every effort to ensure he had a restful night, a gesture he would never fully appreciate.


    Then as Ricky started to feel that remorse and guilt completely consumed him, the final scene played out as Ricky fell to his knees as he no longer had the strength to stand.


    "Please, Ricky, can we go play at the docks?" Danielle begged earnestly but Ricky, already in a foul mood, shook his head in response.


    "I''m not in the mood-"


    "YOU''RE NEVER IN THE MOOD!" Danielle screeched at Ricky, tears streaming down her face as her frustration and hurt spilled over.


    "I ONLY WANT YOU TO SPEND TIME WITH ME BUT YOU NEVER-" Danielle poured out her frustrations, hoping Ricky would notice her sadness but his past self merely snapped his head back, indifferent to her pain.


    "WHY SHOULD I SPEND TIME WITH SOME SNOT-NOSED BRAT?" The past Ricky retaliated harshly, causing Danielle to flinch.


    Meanwhile, the present Ricky shook his head in disbelief, unable to reconcile with his former self''s cruelty.


    "Stop." Ricky begged desperately, reaching out to anyone who might hear him, but his cries were met with silence.


    But it was no use.


    "But I''m your sister-"


    "HALF SISTER, YOU''RE ONLY HALF MY SISTER CAUSE YOU''RE A F*CKING BASTARD!" The past Ricky yelled, and as his harsh words cut through the air, tears began to stream down Danielle''s cheeks.


    "Stop." Ricky breathlessly uttered the words toward his past self, knowing full well what would follow as avein throbbed on his neck as he glared at his former self with seething hatred.


    "Y-Your lying-" Danielle shook her head, tears streaming down her small cheeks as she backed away, overwhelmed by the sudden news.


    "WHY DO YOU THINK DAD SAID YOU WEREN''T HIS? BECAUSE HE HUNG HIMSELF WHEN HE FOUND OUT OUR MOM CHEATED AND HAD A KID WITH ANOTHER MAN!" Ricky unleashed his frustrations on his young sister, who only ever wanted to spend time with him.


    *SNIFF*


    "I-I HATE YOU!" Danielle screamed at his past self, but he only scoffed as he opened the door and walked away.


    "STOP!" Ricky shouted, standing up in a desperate plea to his past self.


    It would be a moment he would come to regret deeply, a haunting memory that lingered with him to this day.


    "And I hate you too." Ricky said in a bitter, pessimistic tone, intending to wound Danielle deeply as his words succeeded, shattering her heart completely.


    "FINE!" Danielle yelled, her voice echoing with anguish as she watched his past self walk away.


    The present Ricky, consumed by remorse, began shaking his head fervently, unable to escape the torment of his own actions.


    "Danielle, stop." Ricky breathlessly stumbled forward, watching as Danielle reached for her yellow rain jacket and paper boat, her small hands trembling with despair.


    "I''LL GO BY MYSELF!" Danielle yelled defiantly, but his past self didn''t even glance back.


    Meanwhile, the present Ricky sprinted towards her, driven by a desperate need to stop her.


    "DANIELLE, PUT THAT F*CKING RAINCOAT DOWN, DANIELLE!" Ricky roared in grief, sprinting after her as she headed towards the back door.


    She struggled for a moment but finally managed to open the door, and the rain poured in torrents as Ricky''s heart pounded furiously.


    His pupils trembled violently, reflecting the image of her stepping outside as desperation surged through him as he leaped out the door, determined to reach her before she could disappear into the storm.


    "Today, we are gathered not to mourn the loss of Danielle Freeman, but to celebrate the life she lived." The priest said somberly, standing beside a small red oak coffin adorned with a large photograph of Danielle hanging above it.


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    Ricky was consumed by an overwhelming wave of grief and anguish as he slammed his head into the dirt, having to relive the tragic fate of his little sister.


    He later discovered that Danielle had gone down to the docks, fallen into the water, and drowned, taking her last, terrified breaths alone and frightened with her final moments colored by the pain of his earlier words, when he had told her he hated her.


    This haunting event left Ricky deeply scarred, unable to form close bonds with others.


    The fear of experiencing such devastating loss again prevented him from opening his heart, as he dreaded the heart wrenching pain of losing someone else just as he had lost Danielle.


    After that day, if Ricky was considered broken, then after Danielle''s death, he was utterly shattered.


    He could never forgive himself and drifted through life, consumed by self-pity as he sought to drown his pain with any substance, woman, or can of booze he could find, trying to numb the relentless ache within.


    "Would anyone like to say a few words?" The priest asked and one by one, people began sharing their stories, and Ricky''s eyes widened in surprise as he turned to look behind him.


    "Ricky, as her loving brother, would you like to say some parting words to Danielle?" the priest asked, gesturing towards him as all eyes turned towards him.


    The present Ricky, overwhelmed, stood up and rushed toward his past self, who had also risen to his feet.


    Without hesitation, his past self turned away and started running with all his might, fleeing from the funeral as tears streamed down his cheeks.


    "YOU GO BACK THERE AND SAY GOODBYE, YOU BASTARD!" Ricky screamed, his voice a raw mix of frustration and hatred.


    He knew he couldn''t change the past, but he refused to passively witness his greatest mistake again.


    Despite his desperate efforts to catch up, his past self outpaced him, the distance between them widening until he disappeared completely.


    Ricky turned back to the funeral scene, now eerily silent, with empty rows of chairs where grieving people once filled.


    The only presence was the departed soul and the vacant podium and after taking a deep breath, Ricky walked toward the podium, determined not to flee this time but to face the sorrow head-on.


    He climbed the stairs and positioned himself in front of the podium, facing the empty rows.


    As he glanced toward the supposedly nonexistent crowd, his eyes trembled with profound grief when he saw Danielle sitting in the front row, patiently waiting for him to speak, her familiar smile still gracing her face.


    "I-" Ricky hesitated, instinctively turning to leave but his hands tightened around the podium, anchoring him in place as he fought against the urge to flee.


    *SIGH*


    "Danielle, I''m so sorry." Ricky finally found the words he had never managed to say, his voice trembling as he looked her directly in the eyes.


    "I was such a bad big brother," Ricky said, his voice breaking with raw emotion. "If I could, I would''ve traded places with you, because God knows a piece of sh*t like me didn''t deserve to live in a world where you couldn''t smile." Ricky spoke from the heart, tears streamed down his face, and he choked on his breath, but he pressed on through the pain.


    "I-.......I should''ve been there for you. There isn''t a day I don''t kick myself for not taking your extended hand when I had so many chances and just blew them all." Ricky began to break down, his voice trembling as the weight of his deepest regret stood right in front of him.


    After her death, Ricky had always loathed himself and the crushing sense of loss that accompanied it.


    Whenever that feeling resurfaced, he would instinctively run from it, just as he had all those years ago.


    "You just wanted to be near me, and all I ever did was push you away," Ricky said, his voice heavy with regret.


    As he spoke, Danielle stood up and began walking toward him, her presence a poignant reminder of his failings.


    "You deserved so much more and I''m sorry-"


    "Ricky." Danielle walked right up to his side and gently tugged on his shirt as Ricky fell to his knees, bringing himself down to her eye level, the gravity of the moment pressing heavily upon him.


    "I forgive you," Danielle said softly while Ricky pulled her into a tight embrace, burying his grief in her presence, overwhelmed by the release of his long-held sorrow.


    Ricky knew deep down that Danielle would have forgiven him if he had only asked for it, but that was precisely why he never sought her forgiveness in the past.


    He tormented himself with grief, fearing that if he were forgiven, it would mean Danielle had died in vain.


    *SNIFF*


    "I love you so much, Danielle." Ricky choked out, gripping her tightly while Danielle gently patted his back, offering comfort as he let his emotions flow freely.


    "But Ricky," Danielle said softly, breaking the hug to Ricky''s visible grief as she gently caressed his cheek, her touch tender and reassuring.


    "You need to stop running," Danielle said, her words echoing with a deeper meaning that left Ricky puzzled.


    "Danielle-"


    "Ricky." Danielle pouted at him, gently closing his mouth before returning to a warm smile as she stroked his chin.


    "It''s time for you to move forward instead of running backward." Danielle''s toothy smile was bright, but Ricky shook his head, struggling with the weight of her words.


    "No Danielle, I need to stay here and make up all the lost-"


    "I''m already gone, Ricky." Danielle''s sad smile broke his heart, leaving him staring at her in stunned silence.


    "And it''s time for you to finally forgive yourself." Danielle said softly, breaking away from Ricky before walking toward the last door.


    "W-Wait, can''t we talk-"


    "No, you have to hurry up. I''ll be mad at you if you don''t win," Danielle said, crossing her arms and tapping her foot as Ricky couldn''t help but let out a chuckle at her determined stance.


    "O-Okay." Ricky hesitated for a moment, but then, with renewed resolve, he stood up and walked toward the final door.


    "Brother to sister, can you give me a hint?" Ricky asked shamefully and Danielle let out a sigh, her exasperation clear as she acknowledged that some things never changed.


    "Okay, fine, but only because I love you." Danielle said, gesturing for him to come closer as Ricky leaned down to her level once more, eager for her guidance.


    "Just don''t run away this time," Danielle whispered. Ricky gave her a deadpan expression, and she simply shrugged, a knowing smile on her lips.


    "I thought you loved me," Ricky said, raising an eyebrow at the inadequate hint.


    "I do love you, even after knowing how stupid you are," Danielle chuckled, her playful tone lightening the moment.


    Ricky sighed, placing his hand on the door knob but pausing as he considered her words.


    "A-Are you okay-"


    "Ricky, I''m not real," Danielle said, her voice soft but steady as she could already see the words forming on his lips, cutting him off before he had the chance and Ricky paused, then let out a quiet laugh.


    "Right, it''s all just one big mindf*ck," Ricky muttered, taking a deep breath. He couldn''t help but steal another glance at Danielle, her smile warming his chest in a way that rattled him.


    With that, Ricky opened the door, confronting the root of everything that had twisted him into the broken mess he had become.


    "Hey there, Slick."


    Ricky exhaled shakily, freezing at the sight before him as his biological father, Tanner Freeman, was perched on a ledge.


    This was the man responsible for it all, the one who gave him the infamous nickname that had haunted his last life.


    "Come over here, take a seat, and talk to your old man for a bit," Tanner said, tapping the ledge with an innocent expression.


    Ricky hesitated, remembering his sister''s warning, but ignored it, turning away and opening the door.


    Yet, as soon as he stepped through, he found himself back in the exact same spot, facing Tanner once again.


    "Oh, come on, Slick, you know you can''t run away this time like before." Tanner laughed heartily as Ricky slammed his head against the door and tried again.


    *SIGH*


    "I guess some people can never change; you''re just like your mother in that regard." Tanner sighed, shaking his head with clear disappointment etched on his face.


    Watching Ricky try to leave through the door for the eighth time, but stopped just before stepping out.


    "Ha~" Ricky laughed ironically before turning to face Tanner.


    "You know, you''ve got a lot of nerve judging me." Ricky showed a hateful smile, pointing at Tanner but made no move to advance.


    "Judge you? I''m not judging you, Slick. I''m just accepting that you''ll always be the child of your whore of a mother," Tanner said, his smile unnervingly warm as Ricky''s disgust flared at the sight.


    "W-What are you talking about dad?"


    Ricky was about to speak when he heard a voice from his past and upon turning to his right, he saw his younger self, the version of him before he became the mess he is now.


    "What am I talking about? I''m talking about how your mother whored herself out to other men and had their bastards, that''s what I''m talking about," Tanner said, leaning back on the ledge as the younger Ricky flinched at the harsh words.


    "What are you-"


    "I found out that Danielle isn''t mine, Slick. She''s not my daughter," Tanner scoffed with disdain, gazing towards the side as the younger Ricky looked on in shock, unable to process the revelation.


    "I was surprised when I learned that you''re actually my boy," Tanner said, taking out a flask and taking a swig, wiping his mouth and then pointing it at him.


    "You''re nothing like me, you look and act just like your whore of a mother." Tanner continued to belittle Ricky over and over, his words slicing through the air as the younger Ricky stood there, stunned and unable to grasp the cruel reality being thrown at him.


    "I should''ve never met her in Sicily, she ruined my life." Tanner said in a cynical way, throwing the flask to the side, his gaze returning to him


    "You ruined my life." Tanner''s voice was firm in that stance, believing it wholly as he pointed the blame at the younger Ricky who took a step back.


    "She used me for that damn green card, just like how you use women to distract yourself from your own loneliness," Tanner sneered, letting out a hateful laugh while the present Ricky watched, scowling from the side.


    "But we can rectify that horrible part of you, salvage the goodness I know you still have within you," Tanner said with a gentle tone, smiling as he grabbed two ropes and held one out to Ricky.


    "Come on, let''s stick it to her together, like father and son," Tanner said warmly, holding the ropes out only for the younger Ricky to look on in horror at the suggestion.


    Without hesitation, the younger Ricky turned his back and ran, not sparing his father a single glance as he fled down the stairs and out the door, driven by a desperate need to escape.


    "And after that, you never stopped running from your problems, right, Slick?" Tanner said, finally turning to face the current Ricky as he halted his movements, locking eyes with his father.


    "Yeah, you really f*cked me up-"


    "Oh Jesus Christ, Ricky, how about you take some accountability for once and admit that I wasn''t the entire problem but your inability to face your problems head-on." Tanner scoffed, wrapping the noose around his neck and tying the rope to the side of the building.


    "Fine, you can blame me for running away today, but what about when you ran away from your own bastards?" Tanner egged Ricky on, his words driving Ricky to grit his teeth.


    "Or what about Cindy?" Tanner raised his gaze, Ricky''s eyes turning dangerous when looking at the bastard before him.


    "You better watch your mouth old man." Ricky threatened, his hate shining through his eyes as they glared at Tanner.


    "How about Daneille-"


    "I said shut your f*cking mouth, Tanner!" Ricky yelled out his hate filled words, but Tanner responded with a cruel laugh, his amusement cutting through Ricky''s anger.


    "How can you act all tough when you can''t even take a step forward?" Tanner taunted, pointing at Ricky as he glanced down, realizing he hadn''t moved an inch.


    "Because-"


    "Oh boy, here we go with your classic diversion," Tanner sighed, rolling his eyes while Ricky clenched his fist in response, the silence thickening between them.


    "Nothing?" Tanner asked, surprised as Ricky ducked his head, letting out a chuckle filled with disdain.


    "Alright, you''re free to go," Tanner said, pointing as a door suddenly appeared behind Ricky as he turned around to see it.


    "What are you-"


    "You passed. I mean, you made it to the end, so you should be able to leave." Tanner said with a smile that was laced with disdain, watching Ricky turn towards the door.


    "Let''s save us both the awkwardness and just leave," Tanner said, beckoning him away, watching Ricky grasp the handle and turn it.


    "Just run away like you always do." Tanner said, the words halting Ricky in his tracks.


    "Oh?" Tanner remarked as Ricky''s hand shook violently, the handle beginning to crush under his grip.


    "You think I like being this way? You think I enjoy hurting everyone around me-" Ricky began, turning back around, but Tanner''s laugh interrupted him once more.


    "You know what, I think you do Ricky." Tanner spread out his arms, revealing his truth to him.


    "I think it''s your favorite excuse." Tanner said, his mocking tone silencing Ricky as the reaction only widened his bastard father''s grin.


    "I think you enjoy the thought of never taking responsibility for your actions after you mess everything up, get drunk, and go f*ck some whore. I think you love it!" Tanner exclaimed out, laughing heartily at his poor excuse of a son.


    "That''s your true love, Ricky. Never taking any accountability and blaming everyone else except yourself," Tanner concluded, gesturing toward him as if summarizing his final point with a glorious conclusion.


    ""Ha, I guess you''re right." Ricky said, letting out a self-deprecating laugh, actually agreeing with him.


    "I guess I have been that guy," Ricky admitted, his voice heavy with resignation, holding his forehead with that stupid smile of his.


    "A part of me just wants to do it right because, well, it''s the easy route. I mean, the door is right there." Ricky gestured to the door with a short laugh, and Tanner responded with a mocking smile.


    "But f*ck that." Ricky said, surprising both himself and Tanner as he took a step forward instead of retreating.


    "I''m tired, I''m worn out, and I''m sick of just doing nothing, being nothing!" Ricky yelled at Tanner, causing his father to stand up and take a step back.


    "Are you finally gonna join me-"


    "No, I don''t want to be this guy anymore! AND YOU KNOW WHAT, I''M GOING TO DO WHAT I SHOULD''VE DONE THE FIRST F*CKING TIME I SAW YOU ON THIS GODDAMN LEDGE!" Ricky roared, rushing at the man who, in his mind, had long since ceased to be his father.


    "What are you-" Tanner started, but he couldn''t finish as Ricky grabbed his collar, yanked him off the ledge, and threw him down to the ground.


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    Ricky began pounding on Tanner, delivering punch after punch as the man tried to shield his face and despite Tanner''s attempts to cover up, Ricky''s fists relentlessly collided with his face.


    "STOP-"


    *BAM*


    "I''M YOUR FATHER-"


    "NO, YOU''RE JUST A LOUSY EXCUSE FOR A MAN!" Ricky yelled, pummeling his fist into Tanner''s face.


    Blood started to splatter on his being but Ricky was firm, letting out all his deep rooted anger and resent that had haunted him throughout his life.


    Ricky''s downward spiral reached a crucial point here, where he ceased to grow as a person and began to shatter throughout his life.


    Though some things would remain unchanged, Ricky resolved to confront the part of himself that always ran, determined to rid himself of the feelings that had plagued him for so long.


    It was his way of breaking the cycle, refusing to let the weight of his past dictate his future any longer.


    Standing over his beaten father, Ricky felt a profound sense of peace for the first time in what felt like centuries and as he stood there, a door materialized before him.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    "You know, a part of me still thinks that all of this isn''t my fault, that I didn''t lead myself to this very spot." Ricky huffed, standing over Tanner with a resolute look, wiping the blood off of his fists.


    "But the real answer is that it is."


    "It''s my fault that I''m an idiot, it''s my fault that I''m a coward, and it''s my fault that I act the way I do," Ricky admitted, his voice steady and finally acknowledging that he is the problem, instead of blaming everything around him.


    "But I don''t want to be this person anymore, I don''t want to be this weak of a man, I want to be different." Ricky declared with a firm resolve, kicking Tanner in the chin one more time and turning his back to him.


    "I want to be better."


    A light shone through the door, and Ricky, drawn by its warmth, instinctively walked toward it and as he approached, the warmth began to fill his barren heart once more.


    "ARE YOU JUST GOING TO LEAVE? TURN YOUR BACK ON ALL OF US?" Tanner screeched at Ricky who turned back to see every person he had ever wronged, their faces a mosaic of guilt, anger, sadness, smiles, and acceptance.


    Until his gaze finally settled on Danielle, who waved at him with a gentle, encouraging smile.


    "I''m not turning my back on you," Ricky said with a smile, his eyes fixed on his new beginning.


    "I''m just moving forward, that''s all." Ricky scoffed at the pitiful excuse for a father, taking his first step of liberation and as he did, the people around him began to fade into obscurity, except for one.


    Danielle watched with a smile as Ricky was enveloped in a warm, life-like glow and as the light surrounded him, her entire body began to fade away.


    "Goodbye, Ricky." Danielle said, having finally achieved her last wish.


    As her form slowly started to fade, Ricky didn''t walk forward completely; instead, he slightly turned his head, catching the last glimpse of her farewell.


    "Goodbye? That means I won''t ever see you again, and that''s not happening, Danielle." Ricky side-eyed the shocked Danielle, who could only laugh through her tears as they streamed down her cheeks.


    "I can''t play today, but next time, you have to promise to play whatever I want!" Danielle shouted at the top of her lungs as her form began to slowly trickle away into nothingness.


    Ricky rubbed his eyes, stepping fully into the light, leaving her final words echoing in the space behind him.


    "Alright, it''s a promise."

 Chapter 73 - 72: The Power Of An Ancestor

    Chapter 73: Chapter 72: The Power Of An Ancestor


    "YOU''VE RETURNED!" Percival exclaimed just as the clock neared its final tick.


    His eyes sparkled as he watched Ricky step out from the far side of the cave, perfectly timed to his anxious delight.


    "YOU ALMOST BECAME LOST-" Percival his face lit up with a wide smile, but as he drew closer, the grin wavered, and one eyebrow arched in sudden doubt.


    *Sniff*


    "Are you crying?"Percival, his expression sharp with accusation, spoke up beside a visibly relieved Father Sebastian, with Henry and Alexander standing attentively nearby.


    "I just got something in my eye, dick wad." Ricky muttered, rubbing his eyes, clearly not crying or at least, that''s what he insisted as Alexander started ;laughing.


    "What''s a ''dick wad''?" Percival muttered under his breath, genuinely puzzled, having never encountered the term in his life.


    "Young Ricky, you''re as bad a liar as I am a loser at Go Fish!" Alexander squeaked, his tiny voice filled with bellows of laughter, just before Ricky scooped him up and perched him on his shoulder.


    "I am glad you''ve returned, Ricky. You''ve been in there for exactly 23 hours and 28 minutes." Father Sebastian revealed, the unexpected statement making Ricky''s eyes widen in surprise.


    "Really? It didn''t seem that long to me." Ricky replied, puzzled, as it had only felt like a couple of hours to him.


    "My descendant, you have exactly thirty-two minutes before the next event. Let me break down what it is so you can-"


    "I''m going to stop you right there." Ricky interjected, reaching into his jacket to pull out a letter.


    "Descendant this is-"


    "Sir Percival, let us give this child a moment," Father Sebastian said, sensing the tension as Percival opened his mouth to retort but ultimately nodded in agreement.


    Ricky walked to the side and sat down, his gaze fixed on the letter addressed ''To: Ricky'' in Eddy''s handwriting and with a sense of anticipation, he carefully opened the envelope.


    Dear Ricky,


    I reckon this letter might come off as a jumbled mess of confusion, but I need to spill it all before the darkness swallows me whole. I want you to hear me loud and clear: none of this is on you, and it never was.


    I''m truly sorry for dragging you into my whirlwind of troubles, for prodding at your heartache and coaxing you into this chaos.


    Man, this is hard. Now that I''m writing my goodbyes, I find I can''t quite find the words I''ve been practicing. To sum it all up, it feels like trying to capture something elusive, struggling to explain why I made the choices I did.


    When I stared out that window, it was like I was peeking into a world untouched by these heavy feelings. I dreamt of soaring through the clouds and it sounds silly, I know, but losing my legs made me realize just how desperately I craved the wind rustling through my hair, free from the weight of these broken limbs.


    Everything felt hollow as I gazed out at the city, watching life go on without me while I felt trapped in place, frozen in my own struggle.


    Ricky, old buddy, I hope you can find it somewhere in the crisscross of your heart to forgive me. As you read this, I don''t want you to remember me as I was in that hospital bed. Instead, hold on to the good times, the laughter we shared that echoed like a favorite tune. Think of the moments with me, Rocco, Jake, and the bond we had felt tighter than a jazz band playing the blues. I''m sorry for slapping'' sadness onto your plate, and I hope, in time, you can shake it off and maybe forgive me.


    P.S. Tell Jake I love him like a brother, and take care of my bro for me. He may look like a burly guy, but he''s softer than a marshmallow on the inside.


    See ya on the other side.


    Yours truly, Eddy


    *Sniff*


    Ricky ducked his head, tucking the letter back into his jacket and for the first time since the accident, he felt a glimmer of the old Eddy he used to know.


    The person he had seen lying in that hospital bed felt like a stranger, as if he were lost in a fog.


    But now, reading the letter, he felt a sense of relief wash over him, knowing he had found Eddy again, alive within the words.


    "There, there, young Ricky. One does not stand cold when reflecting on the memories of a fallen comrade, but rather with the warmth of the times they shared together." Alexander said, having refrained from reading the letter out of respect.


    "But right now, you have a decision to make, young Ricky," Alexander said, gently pushing the letter aside as he leaned in, ready to offer the vulnerable Ricky some much-needed advice.


    "Are you a boy perpetually looking back at what he''s lost, or a man looking forward to what he might become?" Alexander asked, directing the question at Ricky, who had always been focused on the past.


    Ricky looked down for a long time until he nodded at Alexander, the weight of the choice settling heavily on him.


    ''System, accept the rewards.''


    Ricky murmured to himself, finally resolving to move on and as he made that decision, pain rippled through him, but alongside it came a surprising surge of strength and dexterity.


    "Alright, let''s go," Ricky said, standing up with Alexander and Henry by his side and just then, Percival appeared to guide him forward, ready to lead the way.


    "This way."


    Ricky followed Percival down the old tunnel, the air thick with history and as they emerged into a wide circular chamber, he was met by a crowd of church members, their faces a mix of curiosity and concern.


    "Finally, you''ve arrived." Ernst smirked, crossing his arms as he took in Ricky''s worn-down expression.


    "How does it feel knowing that I''m about to take your birthright?" Ricky asked, crouching down to Ernst''s level with a challenging look.


    Abrham burst out laughing from the side, clearly enjoying the exchange while slightly intoxicated.


    "Hmph." Ernst scoffed, glancing over at the Pope, who nodded in approval, as if giving him the green light.


    "Ernst, since you were the first to exit the cave, would you like to defer your fight or go first?" Pius asked, watching Ernst step forward, puffing out his chest in confidence.


    "I would like to go first." Ernst declared, and at that moment, his father materialized before him, clad in the armor of the Black Knight.


    "Ernst''s guide do you acknowledge-"


    "No, I do not," Ernst''s father, Julian, interrupted, fixing the Pope with a serious gaze while Ernst stared in shock, caught off guard by his father''s unexpected intervention.


    "Alright, what''s the deal here?" Ricky asked, glancing at Percival before nodding to Julian, who stood resolutely ahead.


    "Before the duel of blood, the participants'' guide must approve your standing to be considered for the title," Percival informed him, scrunching his eyebrows as Ricky stifled a yawn, observing as Ernst''s whole world seemed to crumble around him.


    "I''VE DONE EVERYTHING YOU''VE ASKED, AND YOU TURN ME AWAY ON THE CUSP OF MY GLORY!" Ernst screeched, his fists clenching in pure, unbridled rage as he glared at yet another obstacle in his path.


    "Ernst, my son, you''ve lost your way under that horrid government-"


    "DO NOT SPEAK OF THE GREAT Fu?RER WITH THAT DIRTY MOUTH OF YOURS!" Ernst screeched, drawing his sword as the holographic Black Knight looked on with a disheartened expression.


    "What a tear-jerking scene about to unfold: the struggles of father and son, laid bare as they each seek to shine their own light for the other." Alexander whispered, his eyes sparkling with wonder, while Ricky remained oblivious to the unfolding drama.


    "Young Ricky, are you seeing this?" Alexander asked, but Ricky''s gaze was fixed on the scene, even if it seemed distant to Alexander.


    Ricky''s sight:


    [SHOP]


    IP: 300,000


    Refreshable Items:


    Remote Vibrator: 15,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Works in any place, any scenario, and will deliver a brisk message to whoever you wish for.


    Addicting Saliva: 65,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Your Saliva will become like nicotine in a sense that after having it for a while they will have withdrawals without it.


    Infatuated Scent: 100,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Makes the user''s scent irresistible to every woman.


    Condition: Must have Promiscuous scent(Passive), Wild scent(Passive), and Liberated scent(Passive)


    {Refresh Available in 147:56:12}


    Daily Item:


    Pent-Up Ring: 20,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Anyone who wears this ring cannot cum for 24 hours and the effect will reapply even if it''s even touched by another individual.


    Weekly Item:


    Favorability Meter: 50,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Allows you to check the favorability of a mission target once a day.


    Monthly Item:


    Amplifying Hands: 175,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: The user''s hands will amplify the current pleasure as they lustfully course throughout a woman''s body.


    ''This is such a scam. Why do I have to purchase other skills to get another one?'' Ricky frowned, frustration brewing inside him, while Alexander boisterously jumped up and down as Ernst shouted in the background.


    "TAKE ARMS FATHER, FIGHT ME!"


    ''Whatever, I''ll buy Amplifying Hands, Favorability Meter, and Addicting Saliva,'' Ricky quickly decided, watching his hard-earned points dwindle down to just 10,000.


    ''Now receive the rewards,'' Ricky muttered through gritted teeth, feeling a surge of power as his dexterity finally soared into the realm of the superhuman.''


    *Ding*


    Received:


    (Epic Item) Dust of Disappearance: Sprinkling this magical dust on oneself grants temporary invisibility from all and any eyes.


    (Epic Item) Scroll of Meteor Fragment: Unleashes a part of a meteor when read, causing significant damage to enemies in the vicinity.


    *Sigh*


    ''One-off items,'' Ricky thought with a sigh, dismissing their value since he preferred tools he could use multiple times.


    Still, he couldn''t shake the feeling that he might find a use for them in the future and tucked them away in the back of his mind.


    ''Alright, give me my gacha.''


    *Ding*


    Received:


    (Legendary Item) Piercing Telescope: No illusion is safe from this telescope as it can actually see through any and all illusions in front of it.


    (Legendary Armor) Constantine Trench Coat: Being sentient and demonic, the coat houses powerful hellish powers. This includes the ability to curse and jinx people, mind control them into rageful berserks, and snuff out life out of his victims by strangling them.


    (Epic Item) Twelve ply toilet paper: A roll of toilet paper constructed by a high civilization for the purpose of wiping''s one ass with maximum decency. X 198


    ''Wait, there''s such a thing as twelve-ply toilet paper?'' Ricky thought, his curiosity piqued, having only ever seen four-ply before, he couldn''t help but stare at it in disbelief.


    *CLANG*


    Ricky shifted his head just in time to see a sword hurtling toward the spot where he had been standing moments before.


    Turning back to the battle, he found Ernst sprawled on the ground, badly beaten and bruised.


    Towering over him was the ethereal image of Ernst''s father, gazing down with sorrowful eyes at the man his son had become.


    Raising his sword for the finishing blow, the ethereal figure hesitated, memories of young Ernst flooding his mind.


    Visions of laughter and innocence momentarily softened his resolve, and he faltered, caught between duty and the remnants of love.


    He was conflicted; he wanted to end the very thing he created, but how could he?


    As the hesitation deepened, Ernst, no longer passive, seized a hidden dagger and lunged forward, driving it into the ethereal silhouette.


    The blade met its mark, and a shockwave rippled through the air, echoing the turmoil within him.


    "Goodbye, Father," Ernst whispered, closing his eyes as the ethereal figure slowly faded away.


    The last thing Ernst saw was the deep look of disappointment in his father''s eyes, lingering like a heavy shadow.


    "I''m sorry, my son."


    "Ernst has passed the test!" Father Sebastian announced in a neutral tone, his voice echoing through the chamber.


    The only sound of applause came from the bishop, who clapped slowly, standing alone in recognition of Ernst''s hollow victory.


    "Ricky, please step forward!" Father Sebastian gestured towards Ricky who nodded in understanding and stepped forward.


    As Ricky stepped into the circle, both Alexander and Henry were abruptly denied access.


    An invisible barrier sent Alexander tumbling from Ricky''s shoulder, and Henry, trying to follow, knocked his beak against the force field, unable to break through.


    "Only descendants of the Black Knight may enter the circle," Father Sebastian clarified towards Ricky who shrugged, accepting the situation, and walked toward the center of the arena.


    "Ricky''s guide, please show yourself to all and give your judgment!"


    *GASP*


    Gasps rippled through the crowd as they suddenly noticed Percival, whose presence had been hidden until now.


    The moment they laid eyes on him, recognition swept over the onlookers that hadn''t had the pleasure of seeing Percival when summoned, witnessing the first-ever Black Knight in the flesh.


    "Can''t believe that brat got the founding Black Knight," Abraham scoffed, leaning back with a sneer, his eyes filled with disdain at the thought of Ricky being paired with THE Black Knight.


    Ricky strolled to the center nonchalantly, waiting for Percival to give his approval so he could move on and face the pipsqueak scowling at him from the side.


    But as he glanced at Percival, he noticed a mischievous smile spread across the knight''s face.


    "I don''t approve."


    *GASP*


    "Seriously, are we really doing this?" Ricky sighed, realizing what was coming as Percival shifted into a fighting stance.


    "Did you really think I''d let it slide, even though you''re my descendant, after you tossed me into that strange space?" Percival''s eyebrows twitched with annoyance, his old armor beginning to materialize around him, fully prepared for a confrontation.


    "I''ve known of your power, but I want to see it at full force, so I''ll allow you to use your weapons," Percival beckoned Ricky who let out a laugh, thinking this was still a joke.


    "Your kidding-"


    "Do I look like the type to do so?" Percival interrupted, catching Ricky off guard as he frowned and clicked his tongue in frustration.


    As he pulled out the new trench coat from the system, it seemed to come alive, gazing at him before giving him a playful smack.


    "W-Wait!" Ricky exclaimed, holding up his hands as the trench coat continued to swat at him as it didn''t hurt, but the persistent annoyance was becoming hard to ignore.


    "Why are you-DAMMIT STOP!" Ricky shouted, just as the trench coat smacked him right in the face.


    In that moment, a sphere of fire suddenly encased the two, intensifying the chaos around them.


    "What''s your problem? I didn''t do anything to you!" Ricky yelled at the trench coat, which crossed its arms defiantly, seemingly unfazed by his outburst.


    The trench coat began to make signs that Ricky could only briefly understand, but the gist of it was clear: it was offended.


    It wasn''t just some magical item from a fantasy role-playing game; it was a demonic being, indignant at being summoned in front of Ricky as if it were merely a rare item from an RPG game.


    "Can we shelve your disgruntlement until I beat the crap out of that weird ghost behind you?" Ricky asked earnestly, feeling mentally drained from earlier events and not wanting to deal with a stressed out trench coat.


    The trench coat turned to see Percival, who wore an arrogant expression, and for some reason, that infuriated it even more.


    "Whoa," Ricky said, surprised as the trench coat suddenly wrapped around him, the collar puffing up dramatically.


    He reached for the gauntlets, which exuded an unsettling aura and despite the ominous vibes, Ricky equipped them without a second thought, fully aware there would be consequences.


    He surprisingly decided he''d read the entire description later; for now, he needed their power to take on Percival.


    Then a bright light suddenly filled the hall as the ethereal glow of a bow materialized out of thin air.


    Father Sebastian''s eyes lit up with fascination; he couldn''t help but smile, having already been impressed by Ricky conjuring flames.


    ''Has he been blessed by Uriel?'' Father Sebastian wondered to himself as Ricky extinguished the fire, a smirk forming on his face.


    ''Let''s give these old geezers a little scare,'' Ricky thought as he activated the ''Radiant Harmony Aura,'' causing the eyes around him to widen in surprise.


    "Holy sh*t, Seb was actually right." Abraham stood up, joined by the other priests, as they sensed the familiar holy aura, one typically associated with angels.


    "I knew it!" Father Sebastian exclaimed in a geeky demeanor, looking up at Abraham, who immediately scoffed but didn''t refute his words.


    "I see." Percival said, his voice steady as any trace of relaxation he had felt vanished, replaced by a fierce thirst for battle.


    "Hey old man, you ready?" Ricky asked out towards his ancestor, drawing his Nova bow and pulling the shimmering bowstring back, ready for action.


    However, Ricky didn''t give him a chance to respond; he shamelessly released the arrow, which rocketed out of the bow''s embrace.


    A powerful wave of air pulsed around him, and those watching blinked in shock as a loud boom reverberated through the hall.


    *BOOOM*


    A cloud of dust swallowed Percival as Ricky drew his bow, ready to fire another shot.


    But just as his fingers tightened around the string, a burst of laughter echoed through the air, not from ahead where he expected, but from behind.


    "Oh, my dear descendant." Percival''s voice echoed in Ricky''s ears, sending a jolt of warning through his mind as he turned back, instinctively sensing that something was about to go very wrong.


    *CRASH*


    Ricky raised a mental shield, but the slash tore through it like paper, the force rippling through the air.


    His instincts kicked in and he drew back his bow in one swift motion, releasing an arrow just as the air slash came within inches of him.


    The arrow met the air slash with a violent clash, sending sparks flying before a loud explosion rippled and engulfed him.


    *BOOM*


    The force of the impact rocked Ricky, and before he could react, a shockwave slammed into his chest.


    He was hurled backward, his body twisting as he tumbled across the ground as dirt and debris kicked up around him as he struggled to regain his footing, his breath ragged.


    His grip tightened around the bow, eyes locking onto his opponent, knowing the next strike would come fast.


    But instead of focusing on where the attack had come from, Ricky''s eyes widened in horror as he looked toward Percival.


    The knight hadn''t moved, at least, not in any way a human should as instead his form stretched impossibly, as if caught between moments, his sword seemingly frozen mid-swing.


    "Are you wondering how I reached you without even moving a step?" Percival chuckled, his voice calm and taunting as he lowered his sword, the blade gleaming faintly.


    "I cut through the space between us, which is why you heard my voice so close, in case you were wondering." Percival explained, gesturing as if lecturing a student.


    "WHAT?" Ricky let out a baffled laugh, incredulous as he exclaimed, stunned that someone could cut through space when he himself was holding power that defied the realms of the impossible.


    "I''ve fought literal gods, young descendant; your power is mere child''s play," Percival said with a smile, clearly looking down on him.


    Ricky''s expression shifted, growing serious as he instinctively stood up and backed away, realizing the true depth of the challenge before him.


    Honestly, at first, Ricky had assumed Percival wouldn''t be this powerful or demanding, dismissing him as just another opponent.


    But that assumption shattered the moment he caught a mere glimpse of Percival''s ancestral power.


    Alexander had always emphasized the importance of maintaining distance when using the bow and even if you felt far enough away, taking an extra two steps back was wise.


    Behind Percival, two holes appeared on either side of him, but no one except Alexander and Ricky noticed the new small indentations forming in the ground.


    "RICKY, YOU MUST TAKE TO THE AIR! YOU CANNOT BEAT HIM ON THE GROUND!" Alexander urged, his brow slick with sweat as he was the only one who had witnessed the serene strike Percival had made with his sword.


    ''His skill trumps mine,'' Alexander thought, realizing that even he couldn''t arc his sword with the same graceful precision as Percival.


    *WHOOSH*


    Ricky''s feet erupted in a surge of flames, propelling him upward with violent force. As he ascended, their eyes remained locked in a tense, unbroken stare with Percival''s confident smirk meeting Ricky''s fierce determination.


    The flames beneath him abruptly ceased, leaving Ricky hovering mid-air on an invisible mental platform.


    His body steadied as he gripped his bow tighter, feeling the weight of the confrontation ahead.


    This time, there would be no holding back or any underestimation.


    With a deep breath, Ricky unleashed his radiant harmony, the energy exploding outward in a brilliant wave of light that illuminated the battlefield.


    His gauntlets, the very ones holding the bow steady, ignited with eldritch flames, a dark and chaotic fire that crackled with malevolent energy.


    Ricky felt the opposing forces within him as his radiant harmony aura, pure and bright, clashing with the eldritch flames'' twisted hunger.


    The two energies snarled at each other like beasts, viciously fighting for dominance within his body.


    But Ricky wasn''t finished as he forced them together, commanding the radiant harmony to mingle with its dark counterpart, fueling the eldritch flames with its purifying light by fueling the flames with his own pyrokinetics.


    In that brief moment, the two enemies morphed into a grotesque abomination that was Ricky in his entirety.


    Percival bent his knees, taunting Ricky by allowing him the first move but it didn''t phase him in the least.


    Ricky pulled back the bowstring, his veins bulging with effort and as he drew the string taut, the arrow swirled in his grasp, the monstrous flames consuming it.


    The usual bright orange arrow was slowly being replaced by a horrid murky red, pulsing with dark energy yet oddly majestic.


    *WHOOSH*


    The arrow exploded out of Ricky''s embrace, a slight air ripple sounding around him as the very space around him started to shift.


    *BOOM*


    Then, with a resounding boom, the arrow launched toward Percival, who merely smirked, unfazed.


    But Ricky wasn''t finished yet as behind him, a sea of cannons materialized, the very same design as the one he received from his gacha.


    Ricky had accidentally taken it out before he left for the Vatican and with his mechanical energy coursing through him, Ricky grasped the intricacies of its design.


    He was able to visualize its mechanics, replicating them with his mental energy, and in an instant, a tsunami of cannons formed behind him, their barrels poised and ready.


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    The cannons erupted in a cacophony of sound, unleashing a barrage of mental cannonballs that surged toward Percival.


    Each shot rippled through the air like a shockwave, a fierce storm of energy raining down upon him.


    Ricky''s eyes remained locked on Percival, who was already gazing at the arrow, its trajectory warping the very air around it.


    The contrast was striking: the singular, focused arrow against the chaotic onslaught of cannon fire.


    Ricky felt a surge of exhilaration as he unleashed his full power, the relentless assault aimed to overwhelm even the most composed of foes.


    *WHOOSH*


    A sudden red flash erupted, consuming the surroundings in an instant. Everything within its reach was cleaved in half, a horrifying spectacle that left the onlookers gasping in disbelief.


    *THOOM*


    An even louder explosion followed, reverberating through the air as the sheer force of the attack obliterated everything that wasn''t Ricky.


    The platform beneath him shattered, splintering into fragments that scattered like confetti in the wake of the destructive wave.


    Ricky stood at the eye of the storm, untouched amid the chaos, the embodiment of a power that defied comprehension.


    The shockwave rippled outward, transforming the battlefield into a surreal landscape of destruction, while the spectators could only stare, their mouths agape, at the horrifying might displayed before them.


    "Never take your eyes off your opponent," Percival whispered, his voice slithering behind Ricky.


    A chill ran down Ricky''s spine at the mere tone, heightening his senses as he felt the weight of Percival''s presence lurking just behind him.


    *BAM*


    *COUGH*


    Ricky''s body was suddenly propelled across the circle, crashing into the field surrounding them as he let out a loud cough, struggling to regain his breath as the impact left him disoriented.


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    Only then did Ricky feel the mental backlash as Percival unleashed a counterstrike, obliterating everything he had conjured.


    The force hit him like a physical blow, and he slumped to the ground, gasping for breath.


    He coughed violently, expelling heapings of spit, the taste of blood mingling with the acrid remnants of his shattered concentration.


    "Interesting," Percival mused, rubbing his chin as he gently descended to the spot where Ricky had just stood.


    "For your age, the power you command is indeed impressive," Percival continued, his tone measured and calm.


    "But there''s no refinement, only brute strength." Percival then let out a disappointed sigh, as if lamenting the wasted potential before him.


    "What the f*ck just happened-" Ricky finally muttered out, looking up only to see Percival had disappeared.


    *BAM*


    In an instant, Percival vanished from view, reappearing above Ricky with blinding speed.


    Before Ricky could react, Percival slammed the heel of his foot into the back of his head, the force driving him down into the ground with brutal precision.


    *BAM*


    The impact reverberated through Ricky''s skull, leaving him momentarily disoriented as the world around him blurred.


    Percival''s weight pressed down, a reminder of the overwhelming power he commanded, forcing Ricky''s face into the ground


    "Is that all?" Percival taunted lightly, his voice dripping with mockery.


    "I must say, you are powerful, but I assumed you were much stronger to justify such arrogance." Percival chuckled, pressing his heel deeper into the back of Ricky''s head, emphasizing his dominance, a smirk playing on his lips.


    Ricky struggled to lift his head, but no matter how hard he pushed, he couldn''t budge it from beneath Percival''s heel. Frustration ignited within him, a fire kindling alongside the physical pain.


    With a sudden burst of resolve, he reached up and grasped Percival''s ankle, his gauntlets shimmering with that abominable fusion of flames.


    The moment the heat touched Percival''s skin, the knight''s smile vanished, replaced by a frown of surprise and concern.


    *BOOOOOM*


    The horrid flames erupted around them, a tempest of energy that engulfed both Ricky and Percival in a chaotic inferno.


    The explosion sent Percival hurtling backward, but with remarkable agility, he caught his balance midair, driving the tip of his sword into the ground to anchor himself.


    The force of the blast sent shockwaves through the arena, scattering debris and igniting the air with flickers of radiant light and shadow.


    *DING*


    *DING*


    In the next heartbeat, Percival effortlessly deflected two arrows that shot toward him, their tips gleaming ominously.


    The arrows collided with an invisible barrier behind him, exploding in a shower of sparks and smoke, but he didn''t even acknowledge their presence.


    His focus remained unwavering, his expression calm and composed, as if the arrows were mere afterthoughts in a game far beyond Ricky''s understanding.


    "Alright, that''s it," Ricky scornfully laughed, the smoke clearing to reveal him smirking, a mix of intense annoyance and newfound determination etched across his face.


    His eyes locked onto Percival''s form, unwavering in their intensity and in that moment, the Emperor''s gaze transformed, a crimson light surging through his pupils as he focused on Percival, analyzing every inch of the knight''s ethereal figure.


    "Do you have even more little tricks up your sleeve?" Percival inquired with a curious smirk, his tone playful yet laced with caution as he circled around Ricky.


    "Oh, believe me, you wannabe King Arthur, I''ve got a whole arsenal of wonderful tricks hidden away." Ricky shot back, his smile dripping with disdain, making Percival''s eyebrow twitch, and he let out a dry laugh, the sound echoing through the tension-filled air.


    In the next instant, Percival''s glorious figure materialized before Ricky, his sword arcing downward with lethal intent.


    But Ricky was ready; he swung his leg upward in a fluid motion, intercepting the blade just in time.


    The clash of metal against flesh sent a shockwave through both combatants, btu Ricky didn''t feel the pain as his adrenaline surged through him, widening his smile as he held his ground.


    "!" Percival''s eyes widened as Ricky''s foot struck the ricasso of the sword, halting its deadly descent aimed at his arm and leaving Percival''s chest completely exposed.


    Seizing the moment, Ricky pulled back the bowstring, the tension in the air thickening with anticipation, and released the arrow without hesitation.


    Percival, quick to react, let go of the sword and shifted his grip, swinging the hilt to the other side.


    The arrow collided with the blade, a sharp crack echoing through the air as it split at its seam amidst Percival''s serious eyes.


    In the same breath, Ricky conjured a shimmering dome around Percival, sealing him within a barrier that suddenly coursed his horrid flames.


    *BOOOM*


    A loud boom erupted as fire engulfed Percival, flames licking at the edges of the mental dome that surrounded him.


    Ricky concentrated fiercely, unleashing a torrent of blazing energy that coated every inch of the barrier, turning it into a radiant inferno.


    With the heat intensifying, he drew back his bowstring once more, the arrow shimmering with the essence of his power.


    The crackling flames danced in his eyes as he prepared for the next strike, determined to break through Percival''s defenses and seize control of the battle.


    *Gulp*


    Ricky gulped, a chill racing down his spine as he realized that just as he was about to release the bowstring, Percival''s sword had materialized right above his jugular.


    *Whoosh*


    In the next instant, the sound of the barrier being cut in half echoed through the arena, a sharp and devastating noise that silenced the spectators.


    Eyes widened in disbelief as they saw Ricky trapped at the mercy of Percival, the knight''s sword poised ominously above him.


    "I accept you," Percival said with a calm smile, nodding to himself as he sheathed the sword.


    Ricky, still reeling, finally managed to draw in a breath, confusion washing over him.


    "What the hell just happened?" Ricky Muttered, disbelief etched across his face at the results of their confrontation.


    He had thought he had him cornered; even his instincts had screamed victory and yet here he was, feeling as if Percival had cut through fate itself, shifting the very fabric of their confrontation in an instant.


    "Amazing," Alexander breathed, unable to hide his awe at witnessing such serene swordsmanship in his lifetime.


    It was a display of skill that left him almost breathless, each movement fluid and precise.


    "Seb," Abraham whispered urgently to the shocked Father Sebastian, who flinched at the sound of his name.


    "R-Ricky has been accepted and will be privy to the Duel of Blood for the chance to wield the Ebony Blade!" Father Sebastian announced, his voice echoing through the stunned silence.


    Ernst, who had been watching the duel from the sidelines, cast his gaze downward, grappling with a mix of emotions.


    The weight of Father Sebastian''s words hung in the air, heavy with significance as Ricky''s fate had shifted in an instant, and the stakes had never been higher.


    The crowd''s murmurs began to swell, a mixture of excitement and disbelief at the prospect of Ricky claiming such a powerful weapon.


    Without uttering a single word, Ernst turned on his heel and strode out of the arena, determination etched into his features.


    As he walked, he pulled a small vial from his clothes, the liquid inside catching the light and glimmering with promise.


    A palpable thirst for power rippled in his eyes, igniting a fire of ambition that drove him forward.


    ''I must win.''


    Author''s Note: Thanks for 9k collections, I appreciate everyone reading this far and enjoying my story. I do see all your comments but have crazy busy and won''t be able to see all of them until the weekend.

 Chapter 74 - 73: In Wait For The Inevitable Duel

    Chapter 74: Chapter 73: In Wait For The Inevitable Duel


    2 days later,


    "SUCH MASTERY, I MUST KNOW YOUR SECRETS!" Alexander gushed, practically squealing as he darted towards Percival in Ricky''s room.


    Percival glanced at Ricky, who was massaging his forehead at the situation bubbling before him.


    Ever since the duel preparations had begun, Ricky had been stuck as the middleman between the two, and the constant back-and-forth had turned into a nagging headache of pure annoyance.


    "Here, Alexander." Ricky flicked his translator ring over, not wanting to play mediator any longer as the gerbil scurried to catch it, a glint of curiosity in his eyes as he inspected the ring.


    "How does this artifact work?" Alexander asked, his voice filled with curiosity, touching the engravings as Percival blinked in surprise, stunned to realize he could suddenly understand the gerbil standing in front of him.


    "You can talk?" Percival asked, his brow furrowing in disbelief as Alexander nodded, a smug grin spreading across his face as he crossed his tiny arms.


    "Not only can I now speak, but I am the former king of Macedonia, Alexander the great." Alexander declared proudly, his chest puffed up as Percival''s eyes widened in shock as he quickly glanced toward Ricky for confirmation.


    "Yes, Alexander the great is now my Gerbil." Ricky muttered, trying to smother himself with a pillow while Percival, still in disbelief, bent down in respect toward Alexander.


    "I grew up on your tales in a distant past, and I must say, you are my hero-"


    Before long, both he and Alexander were geeking out over their respective tribulations, their voices growing animated.


    Even Henry, the mockingbird, watched the spectacle with growing annoyance, eventually nudging Ricky, who groaned and buried his face deeper into the pillow.


    "Yeah, let''s get out of here and let these two love birds have their time alone," Ricky sighed, though his jab went completely unnoticed as the two remained utterly captivated by their discussion of battle.


    With Henry perched atop his head, Ricky decided to take a stroll, but as he opened the door, he spotted Abraham standing there, quietly eavesdropping on the conversation between Percival and Alexander.


    "Kid, is your Gerbil seriously Alexander the great?" Abraham straight out asked Ricky who nodded while walking past him.


    "How many times are you going to ask me that? Yes, Alexander the Great is my gerbil," Ricky said with exasperation, brushing past Abraham.


    Abraham, breathless, turned to watch him leave, a mix of disbelief and intrigue on his face.


    "I-I thought you were joking-"


    "Sometimes, I wish I was." Ricky spoke as Henry nodded along as the baffled Abraham caught up with him.


    "Listen I''m here-"


    "Just take me somewhere I won''t get annoyed by priestly figures and I''ll even listen to your slam poetry." Ricky turned to Abraham, who was slowly breaking into a smile.


    "I know just the place."


    10 minutes later,


    "Ah~" Abraham let out a refreshed sigh, sipping on a scoop of wine from a barrel as Ricky lounged to the side.


    "You can thank the Rothschilds for these puppies." Abraham chuckled, tapping the barrel as he took another scoop as Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "Rothschilds?"Ricky inquired, though Abraham wasn''t surprised; their interactions were always low-key.


    "An old banking family that''s incredibly rich and powerful." Abraham spoke nonchalantly, guzzling down more barrel wine without a second thought.


    "A bunch of rich assholes, if you ask me, but their wine is some of the best I''ve ever had, and they give it to the church for free," Abraham commented to Ricky, drinking the scoop full of wine clean before raising a brow to the side.


    "You''d know that if you even took a sip," Abraham said, pointing his scoop at Ricky.


    Since from the entire time they had been here, he watched the youngest alcoholic he''d ever seen remain unfazed by some of the best wine his world had to offer.


    "I''m not really in the mood for wine, that''s all." Ricky lied poorly, turning away while Abraham started laughing incredulously.


    "You, the kid who always seems to be slightly buzzed or drunk whenever I see him, aren''t in the mood for alcohol?" Abraham asked with an ironic tone, recalling Ricky''s drunken escapades he''d heard about from the bar until the realization hit him.


    "Wait a minute, when you came to me, you were sober, right?" Abraham''s eyes widened in shock, and only one word trailed from his mouth in response to his own realization.


    "Why?" Abraham genuinely asked, giving the floor to the silent Ricky who sighed.


    "Honestly, I don''t know." Ricky leaned back, pinching the bridge of his nose at the sudden conundrum that had plagued him as of late.


    It wasn''t that Ricky was willingly abstaining from alcohol; it was that every time he drank, it tasted rotten.


    "Ever since Eddy died and I try to drink anything, I just hurl it back in disgust." Ricky sighed, actually confining to the drunkard that is Abraham.


    Ricky''s relationship with alcohol had shifted dramatically after Eddy''s death.


    What once might have been a means of escape or camaraderie had become a source of torment.


    The memories associated with drinking now carried a heavy weight of grief, transforming the taste of alcohol into a rotting reminder of loss.


    "I see." Abraham nodded his head, leaning back as Ricky turned to look at him.


    "Honestly though, I really do think I have a problem, and if it weren''t for the taste, I''d probably be drinking all the time," Ricky said, a smile creeping onto his face, almost chuckling as he acknowledged his own flawed nature.


    But after seeing Danielle and realizing that all of his guides were bartenders, Ricky felt a deep wave of depression wash over him.


    His subconscious was completely saturated with thoughts of alcohol and everything related to it.


    Instead of retreating to memories of his childhood home, traumatic experiences, or other potential buffers, his mind had chosen a bar as its refuge, which felt deeply insulting.


    It was as if the very essence of his coping mechanism had twisted into something he once enjoyed, now tainted by grief and loss.


    "Well, the first step is admitting it." Abraham cheered his scoop of wine towards the air, watching Ricky let out a cynical laughter.


    *SIGH*


    Abraham let out a sigh, rubbing his eyes before tossing the scoop back into the barrel as he straightened up to look at Ricky.


    "Listen, there are three ways you can go from here in terms of drinking." Abraham began, actually giving some advice to Ricky instead of laughing at him.


    "One, you can be like me and never change, drinking all the time. Two, you can go cold turkey and never touch a drop again, becoming some pansy loser. Or three." Abraham slowly raised a finger with each iteration until he reached the last one.


    "Just don''t let it control you." Abraham gave the last option, looking at Ricky who stared at the fingers.


    "It''s really easy to lose yourself in something that helps take you away from the moment," Abraham continued, his tone serious as he put down his finger and leaned back.


    "But it''s another thing entirely to enjoy the moment and still be able to drink without letting it control you." Abraham then let out a small sigh, looking at the barrel of wine in regret.


    "Honestly, I could never let go of the first option," Abraham admitted, his voice softer as he slowly closed his wrinkled eyes.


    "It''s so much easier to numb everything rather than confront it." Abraham paused, his gaze distant while taking another scoop of wine.


    "But don''t be like me. You only grow from that pain, and I''ve chosen to stay entirely stuck in the moment." Abraham then downed a large helping of wine, letting the rich flavor of the barrel wine wash over him, numbing the pain he refused to face.


    For the first time in his life, Ricky looked at his coping mechanism without feeling the usual sense of escape, he simply looked at it.


    It was just wine, plain and simple, something anyone could see but until now, Ricky had viewed the liquid as a way to numb everything, exactly like Abraham had said.


    Slowly, as Ricky stared at his reflection in the wine, something shifted inside him.


    Deep down, Ricky had a sudden epiphany, he didn''t need the wine to cope anymore.


    The realization hit him unexpectedly, but with a sense of clarity that he hadn''t felt in a long time.


    He was troubled, he knew that, but the real struggle had always been confronting his problems.


    And now, for the first time, he was doing just that.


    Ricky had already vowed that he didn''t want to be the man he used to be and as he picked up the scoop of wine, he rejected option one; he refused to stay stuck in the same cycle.


    Option two felt like running away, and that wasn''t who he wanted to be either and so Ricky made his choice, he would control it.


    And with that, he took a sip.


    Immediately, Ricky could tell the difference as it wasn''t rotten, nor did it numb his tongue like before as it was refreshing, clean, almost as if he was truly tasting wine for the first time.


    Then Ricky started to laugh, covering his face in disbelief at how simple it all was as he didn''t need to take another sip if he didn''t want to, and that realization filled him with relief.


    Abraham watched from the side, actually smiling for once as he saw a bit of himself in Ricky and knew all too well how easy it was to get lost.


    Despite not particularly liking the kid, he was genuinely glad that Ricky wouldn''t follow the same lonely path he had chosen, one filled with isolation and regret, but something better.


    "So, what can I do for you, Abraham?" Ricky asked, setting the scoop of wine down and gesturing toward the old man, who quickly hid his smile behind a gruff expression.


    "Alright, be real with me, are you part angel?" Abraham genuinely asked Ricky, a hint of confusion in his voice, since that aura was something he had only ever seen used by angels or holy beings.


    "No idea." Ricky lied, though it wasn''t entirely unintentional as he felt a flicker of uncertainty, but the truth was buried deep within him, just out of reach.


    At this point, he honestly wasn''t sure of himself anymore; perhaps he was part angel, given how unexpected it felt to be connected to Sir Percival from the Round Table.


    *SIGH*


    "Well, that little stunt you pulled earlier has thrown the Vatican up in arms." Abraham gestured, recalling the entire display Ricky had put on two days ago.


    "Because of the holy power, right? What''s so special about it-"


    "Kid, holy power isn''t something you''re simply born with; it takes years of faith and worship to accumulate." Abraham shook his head, a look of aggrievement crossing his face as he recalled his own lessons on the subject.


    "That sucks for them," Ricky laughed, finding it hilarious that he had gained this power by basically sleeping around rather than being a virgin his whole life like the other priests.


    "Yeah, some of those geezers absolutely loathe you now because they wasted forty years of their lives to obtain just a fraction of what you showed back there." Abraham remarked, letting Ricky in on the reality of the situation, though he himself could care less about holy power and magic.


    "Anything else?" Ricky asked, and Abraham put on a thinking expression, pondering the implications of Ricky''s newfound power.


    "Actually, yeah, stop bringing or showing weird-ass armor to people of the holy church who are known for literally burning people for less," Abraham condemned, gesturing toward the coat Ricky was wearing at that moment.


    "Uh, I don''t know what you mean." Ricky played the fool, already knowing this fact but his new trench coat was sort of a diva and whenever he took it out of hte system space it would start hitting him.


    Honestly, it didn''t click right away for Ricky how problematic it could be if the trench coat was discovered to be demonic; the only thing really shielding him was his holy power.


    It was only after the fight with Percival that he recognized the potential consequences, his naivety on full display once again.


    However instead of brushing it off, Ricky understood he was walking on a tightrope until he secured the black knight position, which was why he wanted to shelve his armor until he was sure they couldn''t kick him out.


    However, his trench coat hated being in his inventory, so he kept it in his room and when they left, he coated it with his aura, but even then, Abraham''s keen instincts picked up on its presence.


    "Listen, for some reason, until this stupid trial is over, your actions reflect on me, so just don''t get caught, and we''ll be fine, alright?" Abraham gestured toward Ricky, unconcerned about how he was acquiring these trinkets but clearly emphasizing the importance of staying under the radar.


    "That little aura of yours is hiding it for now, but as soon as someone starts asking questions, they''ll really start looking for answers. So be careful, until you''re not my problem anymore." Abraham clarified, clearly only concerned that it didn''t blow back onto him rather than about Ricky''s well-being.


    "Alright, anything else." Ricky actually decided to take Abraham''s advice, and much to his trench coat''s displeasure, he shoved it back into his inventory space.


    "Not really, but I thought I''d let you know that if you somehow lose to that brat, you''ll still be offered an archbishop spot." Abraham suddenly revealed, raising Ricky''s eyebrow in surprise.


    "Does the church just get wet for holy power?" Ricky asked, and Abraham laughed while nodding his head in agreement.


    "Of course, kid, those geezers nutted themselves when they saw you unleash your holy power," Abraham said, and they both laughed before he nudged Ricky playfully.


    "Hey, you wanna have some fun?"


    Meanwhile in the courtyard,


    A priest walked by the garden, a smile blooming alongside the flowers as he bent down to smell a bouquet of roses as the vibrant colors and sweet scent seemed to brighten his spirits even more.


    *Splat*


    "Ah!" The priest suddenly recoiled as a broken egg splashed across his face, the cool, slimy contents dripping down his cheeks.


    Before he could fully react, more eggs began to follow, splattering against him and the ground in a chaotic cascade.


    *Splat*


    *Splat*


    *Splat*


    "S-Stop it-" The priest held up his hands in defense, only to have an egg hit his forehead, knocking him backward.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky and Abraham laughed maniacally as they started pelting the innocent priest with eggs, the air filled with their gleeful shouts and the sound of shells breaking and splattering all over his robes.


    "DAMMIT ABRAHAM!" The priest scornfully scurried away, already knowing the culprits as Ricky sat on the roof of the church, a triumphant grin plastered across his face.


    "And you never get in trouble for this?" Ricky looked back at Abraham, who shook his head in mock disapproval, a bemused smile creeping onto his face.


    "I mean, they try, but I keep deferring my punishment to a higher council. The members never want to deal with a long verdict, so they usually just dismiss it," Abraham shrugged, a hint of exasperation in his voice as Ricky laughed harder at the absurdity of the broken system.


    "The system is actually really broken-"


    "Abraham."


    "Uh oh." Abraham looked down to see Father Sebastian squinting his eyes with a clear scowl.


    "What''s wrong-"


    "RUN!"


    *SPLAT*


    The eggs suddenly splattered all at once, and Ricky quickly covered himself with a shield, but Abraham wasn''t so lucky.


    He took the brunt of the mess, yolk and shell raining down on him as he groaned in disbelief, wiping his face in a futile attempt to clean up.


    "Stop setting a bad example for Ricky and get down here," Father Sebastian said, struggling to hold back his laughter.


    Ricky dropped down in front of him, a cheeky grin on his face, while Abraham had to awkwardly navigate his way down the scaffold, still covered in egg debris.


    "Ricky, go rest up; tomorrow will be a long day," Father Sebastian said, giving Ricky a reassuring pat on the shoulder as he shrugged, walking away before waving with a cheeky smile at the slime covered Abraham.


    "Seb it''s-"


    "Save it, the council is conveying and your presence is needed." Father Sebastian beckoned Abraham over, and he let out a sigh, knowing he was about to face another lecture.


    "Fine, let''s go."


    30 minutes later,


    "ORDER!" Pius announced loudly, attempting to regain control as the other members descended into a frenzy, each one conveying their own opinion with animated gestures and heated voices.


    "I understand many have strong thoughts about Ricky, but we mustn''t make hasty decisions," Pius spoke, trying to maintain order but the other members stood up, their voices rising in a chorus of dissent, clearly unwilling to wait for a more measured discussion.


    "Your Holiness, that child has more holy power than even archbishops; he might as well be a saint!" A member urged, and while Pius didn''t disagree, he considered the implications.


    Although his own magical power far exceeded Ricky''s nonexistent magic power, the density of Ricky''s holy power, even without amplification, was comparable.


    What made Ricky''s situation so significant was his ability to call upon holy power without relying on magic, a feat that was unheard of and raised numerous concerns among the council.


    Many priests circumvented the rigorous training required to gather holy power by amplifying it through magic, which was the foundation of holy spells.


    In reality, all the priests had more holy power than Ricky, but that was only due to their magical abilities.


    Without magic, however, Ricky possessed more holy power than a significant portion of them, making his unique ability to access it without any amplification particularly noteworthy.


    "We must take him into the church, he needs to be properly trained-"


    "That won''t work." Abraham walked into the hall, Father Sebastian nodding by his side, both men exchanging glances as they took in the tense atmosphere.


    "I do not wish to speak out of turn, but that rebellious child is very enthused with his freedom," Father Sebastian remarked, and several other members began to nod in agreement, having noticed the same thing.


    "His family situation isn''t too good, and he''ll probably lash out at the church if you all try to force him into something," Abraham offered, trying to provide perspective as Bishop Thomas scoffed in response, clearly unconvinced and dismissive of Abraham''s concerns.


    "I really don''t think we should listen to this drunken fool who has no belief in the one true God," Bishop Thomas frowned as Abraham let out an ironic laugh.


    "News flash, dumbass: there is more than one God." Abraham''s words struck a nerve, igniting frustration among the members, yet they couldn''t outright deny his point.


    "Abraham, how do you think the Vatican should proceed with Ricky''s case?" Pius inquired, prompting Abraham to scratch his beard thoughtfully.


    "I don''t know, just give him a couple of overseas errands until he calms down a bit so you can teach him," Abraham suggested, voicing the first idea that came to mind.


    The room fell silent as the members absorbed his words, considering the implications of sending Ricky away and what that might mean for his future within the church.


    "If he becomes the Black Knight, his ties with the church would elevate," one member opined, and the others nodded in agreement.


    However, one member remained skeptical, crossing his arms as he prepared to voice his dissent, sensing potential complications in aligning Ricky with such a powerful title.


    "Ernst is-"


    "A little sh*t."Abraham scoffed, casting a glare at Bishop Thomas, who sneered back, unperturbed.


    "And Ricky is any better? If anything, he''s worse," Bishop Thomas hissed, his disdain palpable as Abraham crossed his arms in scorn.


    "He is not refined in the ways of our Lord and Savior; he''s just a peasant, and he''s a vulgar person." Bishop Thomas words resonated with the room, and members began to nod, contemplating the validity of his argument against Ricky''s suitability for a position of power.


    "Well, I''m sure that Ricky will beat the living sh*t out of your little Ernst tomorrow anyway, so this talk of ours doesn''t really matter," Abraham mocked, a smirk playing on his lips as Bishop Thomas stood up, indignation flashing in his eyes.


    "DO YOU WISH TO TAKE THIS OUTSIDE?" Bishop Thomas shouted, his face flushed with anger as Abraham, unfazed, spread his arms wide.


    "BRING IT ON, VIRGIN!" Abraham retorted, a cheeky grin on his face as the other members scrambled to hold Bishop Thomas back.


    *BAM*


    "BISHOP, THAT IS NO WAY TO ACT!" Pius roared, and the room fell silent as if the very air had thickened with authority.


    A wave of holy power emanated from him, pressing down on everyone present, momentarily crushing their spirits and silencing the murmurs of dissent.


    "I-I apologize, your holiness." Bishop Thomas cowered back, his bravado evaporating under the intensity of Pius''s gaze.


    The Pope then turned to Abraham, who had already thrown in the towel, arms crossed and expression resigned.


    *Sigh*


    "The decision on Ricky will be pushed off until it is determined whether he will be the next Black Knight," Pius confirmed, his voice steady and authoritative as the members exchanged glances, nodding in agreement as they processed the weight of the choice ahead.


    "Dismissed."


    Slowly, all the priests filtered out of the meeting room, their discussions echoing in the hallways as they pondered Ricky''s fate.


    Abraham, Father Sebastian, and Pope Pius remained, the air heavy with unspoken tension as Pius gazed down at the two men, his expression a mixture of concern and resolve.


    "You rang for me?" Abraham remarked awkwardly, sensing that the atmosphere was becoming too heavy for his liking.


    "Abraham, I want you to be in charge of Ricky''s induction into the Vatican-"


    "No way." Abraham raised his arms in a gesture of dismissal, shedding off the responsibilities, but Pius frowned in response.


    "And why me, I''m literally the worst advocate-"


    "Because a war is coming." Pius informed Abraham, causing him to stop in his tracks.


    "You mean with us humans-"


    "No Abraham, not just us humans, but a war with the gods." Pius wore a grave expression, causing Abraham''s breathing to momentarily halt.


    "What are you saying-"


    "A fragment of Nyx under the supervision of the Greek pantheon has disappeared." Pius warned him, and Abraham felt his heart start to race at the implication of what that could bring.


    "But that has nothing to do with Christianity-"


    "You know how wars between gods bleed into other pantheons," Pius said, leaning back as Abraham began to pace as Father Sebastion stood nearby, wearing a somber expression.


    "How many fragments have been stolen?" Abraham suddenly asked, his voice tense, as if he needed to understand the implications of these fragments.


    "Only one." Pius informed Abraham, who rubbed his scruffy gray beard in thought.


    "The Nazi party is evidently starting to gather people of power to its side to aid in the takeover of Germany." Pius said, his gaze filled with concern as he had been asked to start a holy war multiple times but had consistently refused, leaving Abraham to process this unsettling information.


    "They are gathering and interfering with powers they shouldn''t." Pius said, closing his eyes as he braced for the coming bloodshed.


    "But they are only a party-"


    "The Nazi party is inflating rapidly, and it''s only a matter of time before it consumes Germany whole and pries its fangs into its surroundings." Pius revealed, causing Abraham to come to a standstill, the gravity of the situation settling in.


    "What does this have to do with Dracula?" Abraham asked, voicing the question that lingered in his mind as Pius looked down, his expression grave.


    "So far, from our indications, it doesn''t have-"


    "Then I''m not doing it," Abraham declared, suddenly aware that the church was attempting to offload its burdens onto him.


    "Abraham this is-"


    "Not my problem! My only concern is making sure I don''t spend eternity in purgatory!" Abraham yelled as he strode out of the room, leaving the two behind.


    "Your Holiness, is the loss of one fragment really cause for concern?" Father Sebastion asked tentatively, prompting a deep sigh from Pius.


    "Yes, it is," Pius replied, sinking into the chair at the table and gazing up at the ceiling as if searching for answers in the heavens.


    "There are only three fragments left, and if they manage to come together, a wave of darkness will consume the earth," Pius warned, his voice heavy with foreboding as Father Sebastion bit his lip, the weight of the situation settling uncomfortably between them.


    "But would Nyx-"


    "No, her hatred is solely directed at the Greek pantheon. However, in war, others inevitably get drawn in. Once Nyx is revived, she will stop at nothing to kill every Greek god." Pius spoke, and Father Sebastian understood it was his cue to leave.


    "Your Holiness," Father Sebastian bowed, then quietly exited, closing the door behind him.


    After a moment, Pius rose and walked slowly to the center of the room and after kneeling, a soft, holy light descended upon him.


    "What is it my child?" An ethereal voice hummed as Pius looked up to see a perfect creature standing before him with twelve wings behind it.


    "I apologize for my sudden call but I wish to convey a message to the Council Of Thones."

 Chapter 75 - 74: Duel Of Blood

    Chapter 75: Chapter 74: Duel Of Blood


    Next Day,


    "To think, today''s the day I actually beat up a racist dwarf. Who would''ve thought?" Ricky chuckled from across the circle, the same spot where he''d battled Percival just the day before.


    "Spare me your impure words." Ernst growled at Ricky, who swore he saw one of the veins in his eye darken to black.


    However, his observation was cut short by a sudden ringing in his ear, making him wince.


    ''Kill them all~'' The words pounded through his skull with a relentless rhythm, each syllable like a hammer striking his temples.


    A sharp, throbbing pain spread behind his eyes as Ricky gritted his teeth, trying to push through the haze of discomfort.


    ''Kill~''


    ''YOU MUST KILL!''


    Ricky felt like he was losing his grip on reality as voices swarmed his mind, growing louder with each passing second.


    The chaotic whispers, fragmented and unsettling, echoed inside his head, threatening to drown out his own thoughts.


    Desperately, he clenched his eyes shut, forcing himself to imagine a barrier, a mental dome forming around his brain, shielding him from the invasive noise.


    He focused on that image, a protective shell hardening with every breath, pushing back the relentless barrage of voices.


    Slowly, the chaos began to dull, muffled behind the walls of his makeshift defense.


    ''Wait, that worked?'' Ricky blinked in surprise as he opened his eyes, having done it instinctively in the heat of the moment, then gave himself a small nod.


    ''Neat.'' Ricky rubbed his neck, lost in thought, until his gaze settled on the void-black stone beneath the monolith, where the so-called ebony blade lay in wait.


    "The Duel of Blood will commence. Is there any opposition to this battle that will determine who will bear the title of the next Black Knight?" Father Sebastian inquired, addressing the crowd, but silence hung in the air; no one spoke.


    Ricky stood facing Ernst, shirtless and clad in oversized shorts as the rules of the duel dictated that he could bear only a single sword and a pair of pants, leaving him feeling exposed yet determined.


    While he wasn''t allowed to use his powers in a conventional sense, he knew he could tap into the full potential of his new eyes, a secret advantage he was ready to exploit.


    ''I mean, is it really cheating if I don''t get caught?'' Ricky pondered the situation, his mind racing with possibilities, when he noticed Ernst drooling slightly at the corners of his mouth.


    "BEGIN!" Father Sebastian announced, but neither Ricky nor Ernst moved at first as he rested the sword on his shoulder, sizing up his opponent.


    Compared to Ernst, Ricky was incredibly muscular, likely weighing over sixty pounds more than him, and it was clear he held a significant physical advantage.


    Still, Ernst felt a surge of confidence as he met Ricky''s gaze, ready to prove that strength wasn''t everything.


    From an early age, Ernst had been trained in the art of the sword, his skills honed and sharpened like a finely crafted blade.


    With unwavering confidence, he charged forward, rushing at Ricky, who met him with a steady, knowing gaze.


    Ernst feinted an arc before swinging horizontally, but Ricky merely yawned, his movements relaxed as he effortlessly countered the strike with a swing of his arm, deflecting the attack with surprising ease.


    *DING*


    "Urgh." Ernst grunted as the force of one of Ricky''s swings knocked the sword from his tightly gripped hand, sending it flying across the arena.


    *BAM*


    Ricky followed up with a powerful Spartan kick that sent Ernst tumbling backward, a wide smile spreading across his face as he watched his opponent struggle to regain his footing.


    The shock from the blow forced Ernst to one knee, and Ricky felt a surge of triumph; he knew he had already won.


    While Ernst''s skill with the sword was undeniable, Ricky understood that even the most refined techniques could only do so much against the raw power of the Emperor''s eyes.


    " Just surrender man, you can''t beat me." Ricky glanced to the side and gave Father Sebastian a thumbs up, remembering the warning not to kill Ernst.


    However, Ricky had no intention of allowing his enemies to linger any longer as he now understood all too well the risks of letting someone like Ernst survive, even in his weakened state.


    Keeping him alive now would only plant the seeds for future chaos, the kind of trouble that could grow into a massive headache and a complication Ricky had no interest in dealing with later.


    Ricky could already sense that Ernst would likely come back for revenge or try something desperate.


    That''s why he planned to offer him a chance to surrender, though deep down, he doubted Ernst would ever take it.


    It was to give the illusion that he tried in front of these priests and holy men so when he refused, Ricky would find a way to ''accidentally'' finish the job, ensuring that the threat was permanently eliminated.


    "NO, THIS IS MY DESTINY!" Ernst roared as he charged forward, but Ricky swiftly raised his hand into the air, a signal to halt the reckless advance.


    "YOU HAVE NOTHING BUT PIG''S BLOOD FLOWING THROUGH YOUR VEINS-"


    *SLAP*


    Ricky backhanded Ernst as he tumbled to the ground once again and Ricky sighed while looking towards Father Sebastion.


    "Is this really necessary-" Ricky maintained his composure, playing his part, when his peripheral vision caught something out of the corner of his eye.


    *BAM*


    Ricky instantly kicked the air in front of him, the force of the blow colliding with Ernst once more, sending him crashing to the side.


    "Just end it father-"


    "That is not how it works child." Father Sebastian shook his head as Ricky turned his attention to the center, sensing the tension in the air.


    "Only when the sword shows itself will the next Black Knight be decided." Father Sebastian hinted at something, and the subtle implication turned Ricky''s smile into a frown, a flicker of concern crossing his face.


    ''Don''t tell me those creepy whispers were coming from the sword-of course they were. Why wouldn''t they be whispers that invade my f*cking mind?'' Ricky interrupted his own thoughts with a sigh as he deftly dodged Ernst''s attack.


    In one fluid motion, he flicked Ernst''s forehead before delivering a sharp kick to his shin and finally finishing with a kick to his stomach and sending him backwards.


    ''Okay, so this guy seems pretty reckless, like me, but way angrier-....kind of like a little Christmas elf trying to convince a Jewish kid that Santa is real, getting more pissed each time he''s not believed.'' Ricky tilted his head, genuinely analyzing the thought since if Ernst had pointy ears, maybe the comparison would make even more sense.


    ''Whatever, I''ll just drop the mental barrier holding back those weird whispers, summon the sword, and when it appears, he''ll probably say something like ''I''m not worthy'' and rush to kill me from behind. Then I''ll just turn around and ''accidentally'' finish him off.'' Ricky thought, mapping out his plan mid-fight, knowing it wasn''t ideal to strategize on the fly, but he figured it was still progress.


    Despite his reluctance to let his mind be penetrated by weird whispers, Ricky decided to drop the mental barrier he had maintained until now.


    As soon as he did, he clamped his hands over his ears and dropped his sword as a tidal wave of whispers flooded into his mind, overwhelming his senses and threatening to consume his entire thoughts.


    ''COME TO ME!''


    ''COME TO ME!''


    ''COME TO ME!''


    ''COME TO ME!''


    ''COME TO ME!''


    ''COME TO ME!''


    "Fucking hell, how does anyone get used to this?" Ricky gritted his teeth, his palms clamping over his ears as if that would help stave off the chaos.


    The words echoed furiously in Ricky''s head, drowning out everything else, while Ernst took a step back in surprise.


    Just then, a sword began to lift out of the ground, its void-black blade glimmering ominously as it broke free from the earth.


    "NOOOOOOOOOOOOO-"


    *WHOOOOSH*


    A wave of air shot out as Ernst lunged for the hilt, but he was violently rejected as a powerful gust sent him crashing into the wall, while Ricky remained completely unfazed, caught in a slight trance.


    He stumbled toward the red and black sword, its colors dancing along the blade, eagerly anticipating his touch.


    Without hesitation, he reached forward, mesmerized by its captivating glow as the dark hue seemed to stretch out, eagerly anticipating his touch.


    "No." Ernst whispered, his eyes widening as Ricky''s fingers brushed the hilt of the blade.


    A vibration resonated within the sword, forging a connection with its new wielder.


    Black residue began to seep onto Ricky''s hand, trailing down his body and spreading across him like a dark ink.


    With the mere touch of the sword, armor began to materialize, enveloping Ricky in its ominous embrace.


    Clad in black armor, the ebony blade rested comfortably in Ricky''s grip though no light shone upon him as instead, an intense, building power radiated from his being, seeking to ensnare all around him in a murderous glow.


    "I give myself to the darkness; I surrender it all for one request." Ernst slowly rose to his feet, his eyes beginning to darken, swirling with black.


    "Kill that man."


    Abraham''s head jerked to the side, a familiar sensation washing over him, a feeling he thought he could never experience atop holy ground.


    "KID, KILL HIM NOW!" Abraham screeched at him, Ricky gazing back at Abraham in confusion who was charging forward until he was stopped by the barrier.


    "I was going to after he charged my blind spot-" Ricky whispered to himself, only for his senses to suddenly scream at him, freezing him in place.


    "Oh, how I missed these grounds." A deep, garbled voice echoed from behind Ricky.


    He turned to see Ernst floating in the air, his eyes completely devoid of color as Ernst reveled in the eerie presence of the place, his expression twisted with a sinister satisfaction.


    "SEB. TAKE DOWN THE F*CKING BARRIER, DO IT NOW!" Abraham reached for his old friend, but Father Sebastian shook his head, a look of concern crossing his face.


    "I-It''s impossible the trial isn''t over yet-"


    "Abraham, is that you?" Ernst called out toward the side, causing Abraham''s breathing to quicken.


    His horrified eyes turned to the floating figure of Ernst, a mix of fear and disbelief flooding his expression.


    "It really is. When was the last time I saw you? It''s been what, twenty years?" Ernst grinned madly at Abraham, who balled his fists in immense strain, blood trickling down his palms.


    "When was it? Oh yes, it was when I slaughtered your son and daughter-in-law right in front of you while you begged me to stop-"


    "DRACULA!" Abraham screeched in pain, rushing forward, but he was abruptly halted by an invisible barrier before him.


    "Oh sh*t." Ricky, confused by the whole scenario, muttered to himself as he looked at Ernst with a questioning look.


    "You''re Dracula?" Ricky asked, tilting his head as Dracula, within Ernst''s form, regarded him with a curious expression.


    Now clad in the black knight armor, the armor effectively blocked Dracula from piercing into his identity or probing his soul, keeping his true self hidden, a significant advantage for Ricky in this tense confrontation.


    "Yes, and I see you''re the new Black Knight." Dracula rubbed his chin thoughtfully, while Ricky responded with a smirk.


    "Pretty cool, right?" Ricky bragged nonchalantly, waving his newly acquired sword as Dracula let out a slow, amused hum in response.


    "It is indeed ''pretty cool''." Dracula nodded, laughing at Ricky''s relaxed expression as it had been a long time since someone had looked at him with such casual confidence.


    "So, hey, I get that you probably have some ill will toward the Church and a bad history with the old man over there, but do we really have to fight?" Ricky asked honestly, hoping to defuse the tension.


    His thoughts flickered to the reality of the situation as he hadn''t wronged Dracula personally.


    Until a thought struck him like a bolt of lightning.


    ''Oh sh*t, I forgot I killed his son.'' Ricky''s own thought process was abruptly interrupted by the realization that he had indeed killed Xarus.


    ''Nah, it''s not like he knows-''


    "You''re hiding something," Dracula frowned, observing the shift in Ricky''s demeanor and immediately probing further.


    "Well, yeah, I mean, everyone has secrets," Ricky replied, looking around and spreading his arms as if to question whether he was wrong as even Percival shrugged in agreement.


    "No, you fool, the way you looked at me for a split second suggested that a topic involving me somehow implicated you in wrongdoing. Do you truly believe I haven''t noticed?" Dracula, a vampire who had mastered the art of observation, read Ricky like a book and let out a hearty laugh.


    "Yeah, I don''t know, that seems like quite a stretch," Ricky replied, outwardly skeptical as even for him, it felt like a leap to assume so much from a brief glance at his behavior.


    "YOUR HOLINESS, A LITTLE HELP!" Abraham shouted, pounding on the barrier.


    Pope Pius, sensing the urgency, advanced swiftly, his hands radiating a brilliant holy glow as he prepared to intervene.


    Gold sparks flickered against the barrier as Pope Pius focused his energy, essentially drilling into the very arena that contained one of the swords of God.


    The air crackled with divine intensity, each pulse resonating through the barrier as he sought to breach its confines and assist those trapped within.


    "Well, it doesn''t matter. The condition for ownership of this body is to kill you, and with that, I''ll claim the blade as well." Dracula had a plan in mind, one that involved turning Ernst into a ghoul and using him as a fearsome undead warrior.


    All the priests paled, along with Abraham, realizing that their secret weapon, the one they had hoped to train in hiding to combat unholy creatures, had already been exposed to one of the most notorious undead beings on Earth.


    "However, this isn''t good since it seems like there is a threat, I mean, your equipment, not you in particular." Dracula said, furrowing his brows at the potential consequences of allowing Ricky to leave alive after observing his armor.


    Throwing caution to the wind in front of the actual Dracula, Ricky donned his trench coat and gauntlets.


    Even the sword seemed to understand his intentions, freeing his hands to allow the gauntlets to merge seamlessly with it.


    "!" Ricky''s eyes widened as warning bells blared in his mind at an intensity he had never experienced before.


    He pushed his mental barrier to its limits, desperate to shield himself from the impending threat.


    "I''ll snip out your bud right now, to eliminate any headaches that may bloom in the future." Dracula intoned, as Ernst''s body convulsed under a dark, ominous red energy.


    The towering wave of magical energy loomed over Ricky as he strained to keep his eyes on it, reinforcing his mental barrier with all his might.


    "KID, COME OVER HERE NOW!" Abraham yelled from behind Ricky, his voice strained with urgency as he watched Pope Pius manage to pry open a tiny hole in the barrier.


    "I-...no, I can''t." Ricky then turned back to the floating husk of Ernst, whose very presence distorted the air around him with an unsettling energy.


    The atmosphere crackled with tension, the malevolent power radiating from Ernst felt almost tangible, wrapping around Ricky like a chilling shroud.


    "I see you are a courageous fool, how amusing." Dracula chuckled venomously, his hands pulsating with an eerie red glow that cast ominous shadows on his face.


    Dracula aimed to eliminate him in an instant, preferring not to exhaust this husk of a body only for it to be accidentally destroyed.


    With a flick of his finger, the immense tide of energy warped and twisted, coalescing into a horrifying spell that crackled with dark magic.


    It surged forward, a swirling vortex of malevolence, each pulse resonating with the promise of devastation.


    Ricky felt the raw power of the spell as it hurtled toward him, time seeming to slow as he braced himself for impact, adrenaline coursing through his veins as his eyes surged to time it exactly right.


    ''Full counter.''


    *THOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    The area shook violently as Dracula''s eyes widened in shock as his conduit, Ernst, was being enveloped by his own spell, which swelled to an overwhelming volume.


    Dark energy crackled and roared, distorting the very air around them, as the spell threatened to consume everything in its path.


    The intensity of the situation escalated, leaving Dracula momentarily stunned by the unexpected backlash of his own dark magic.


    "Interesting, I did not expect that." Dracula uttered his last words, just before the spell completely engulfed his conduit.


    A massive explosion erupted, sending shockwaves through the barrier and illuminating the area with a blinding light.


    The pulsating energy radiated outward, distorting everything in its wake, leaving behind a deafening silence as the dust began to settle.


    *HUFF*


    Ricky collapsed to the ground, unable to fully evade the backlash from the explosion as he fell to one knee, holding himself up with the ebony blade, cold sweat dripping down his face at the strain of redirecting such an overwhelming power back at Dracula.


    The blinding light began to wane, revealing Ernst''s body, now completely devoid of blood and flesh.


    Only his bones remained, scattered across the ground, a grotesque reminder of the spell''s destructive power.


    As the barrier fell, Abraham seized the opportunity and with a fierce determination, he charged forward, dagger drawn and glinting in the fading light, ready to confront the horror that had just unfolded.


    *SCREEEEEEEEEEEEE*


    A loud screech resounded from Ernst''s body as it showed that even with his skeleton state, he had survived as his being slowly turned into ash.


    "ERNST!" Bishop Thomas screeched, rushing forward as he sought to grab the black ash with a pale expression.


    "LOCKDOWN THE VATICAN, WE HAVE BEEN BREACHED!" Pius sounded as the priests flinched before standing to their feet.


    "ARE YOU AN IDIOT!" Abraham turned to Ricky who wiped the sweat from his forehead as Alexander and Henry scurried to his side.


    "Well, right now but I''m already thinking about ways to overcome that-"


    "DAMMIT KID, YOU''VE THROWN YOURSELF INTO THE SIGHTS OF DRACULA!" Abraham pushed RIcky as he stumbled backwards.


    "Uh, come again?" Ricky asked out, huffing out a breath and wiping his forehead.


    "HE KNOWS YOU EXIST HE-"


    "HOW THE F*CK WAS THAT MY FAULT, HOW WAS I SUPPOSED TO KNOW HE WOULD JUST APPEAR!" RIcky yelled back at Abraham, laughing since he couldn''t tell the future.


    "You should''ve ran to us, broken the barrier and-"


    "I wouldn''t have done that anyways so it doesn''t matter." Ricky shrugged, Abraham showing a livid expression as he pushed him back.


    "You don''t get it, you should''ve played dead and-" Abraham hurried after him, lecturing Ricky who was adamant about facing it head on.


    "Listen, we can have a full conversation about all the things I did wrong later-"


    "NO!" Abraham stepped in front of Ricky, prompting a frown from him.


    Ricky recognized the recklessness of confronting Dracula directly, yet he couldn''t shake the feeling in his heart that compelled him to take this stand.


    "I get I was reckless okay, I admit it." Ricky appeared Abraham who couldnt'' but laugh.


    "You don''t understand, do you?" Abraham exclaimed, gripping Ricky''s shoulders tightly and shaking him, his eyes wide with desperation.


    "Can you imagine a figure so monstrous that he instills this level of fear even through a conduit?" Abraham pressed, his fingers digging into Ricky''s shoulders as his arms trembled violently.


    "You''ve never met Dracula; I have. He''s not just some human, he''s BRUTAL!" Abraham''s breath quickened, the intensity of his heartache spilling over into his anger, leaving Ricky speechless.


    "Tell me why, why did you reveal your capabilities to a man who takes pride in obliterating anything that stands in his way?" Abraham''s voice dripped with desperation, while Ricky''s expression gradually transformed into a stoic mask.


    "It may sound stupid to you, but I don''t want to run from my problems any longer." Ricky said, exhaling a heavy sigh as he pushed Abraham away.


    "What-"


    "I just figured out that I''m exhausted from running and if I didn''t kill Ernst right there it might have snowballed into a bigger problem." Ricky let out a resigned shrug accompanying his words, scratching his head as he tried to put it into words.


    "But he could''ve killed you-"


    "I think I finally realized that if taking a step forward leads to my end, then it''s whatever." Ricky continued, his words only deepening Abraham''s exasperation.


    "But I don''t want to be afraid of making a mistake or doing something wrong anymore. It looked stupid to you, but I really thought confronting him head-on was the best choice." Ricky genuinely spoke to the completely jaw-dropped Abraham.


    Ricky understood that he wouldn''t always make the right decisions, no one could, but he refused to let fear hold him back from moving forward.


    He wasn''t about to apologize for attempting to make the right choices and in his mind, he could only imagine the havoc Dracula would unleash if he managed to seize Ernst''s body or roam freely around the Vatican.


    At that moment, Ricky saw this path as the best choice available to him and if it turned out to be a mistake, that was acceptable too, because unlike before, he genuinely wanted to learn from any missteps he might take and actually start on the road of self improvement.


    "Even if he did kill me and I died right then and there, at least I can die knowing that I didn''t run away like I always do." Ricky then walked off, leaving the baffled Abraham standing there, speechless.


    "YOU IDIOT! THAT ISN''T JUST SOME RANDOM BLOKE ON THE STREET, BUT THE GODDAMN LORD OF BLOOD!" Abraham yelled in frustration, but Ricky simply waved him off, dismissing the urgency in his voice.


    "Seemed like a dork to me." Ricky insulted the infamous vampire without a care in the world as he nonchalantly walked with Percival in tow.


    "What are you still doing here?" Ricky asked, his gaze shifting to Percival, who was looking down at Alexander, squeezed into the translation ring while wearing it as some sort of belt.


    "Alexander and I have come to an agreement for me to help train you," Percival said gleefully, flashing a grin as Alexander raised a paw in approval.


    "Hooray." Ricky grunted, his voice laced with distress, mirroring the frustrated expression on Henry''s face but couldn''t turn it down since in all honesty, he needed all the help he could get.


    "What just happened? Seb, please tell me I''m hallucinating and that it was some sensible person who just happened to look exactly like that kid!" Abraham exclaimed, his voice tinged with disbelief.


    Father Sebastian merely shook his head, his expression turning serious as he moved to assist in securing the Vatican.


    Meanwhile In Transylvania,


    On a stone throne, constructed from the ruins of slaves who were falsely promised freedom, sat a solitary figure.


    His name was notorious throughout history and mythos, a symbol of terror and the very embodiment of the threat against humanity itself, Dracula.


    "My lord?" A vampire knelt before him, glancing up in surprise; it had been at least thirty years since he had seen Dracula so deeply lost in thought.


    "There is a saint within the vatican." Dracula uttered words that his humble servant never imagined he would hear.


    "We must-"


    "No, they would anticipate a night raid. We''ll bide our time and observe their situation more carefully, then strike." Dracula declared, raising his hands, his outrageously long fingernails glinting in the dim light.


    "Yes, my lord," the servant replied, ducking his head in submission as Dracula leaned his chin on his hand, his piercing gaze fixed on the trembling figure before him.


    "So, Baron Blood, how goes the cooperation with those humans who call themselves the ''Nazis''?" Dracula inquired, his voice smooth yet edged with curiosity and Baron Blood finally dared to look up, meeting the ancient vampire''s intense gaze.


    "The research will take a step forward once we receive more test subjects-"


    "Didn''t that blood bag, Hitler, want to exterminate the Jews?" Dracula yawned, his indifference palpable as he lounged on his throne.


    Baron Blood nodded in response, sensing the gravity beneath Dracula''s casual demeanor.


    "Then support it, encourage it even." Dracula commanded, his voice dripping with authority, as he traced the sharp edge of his fingernail along the arm of his throne, leaving faint scratches in the stone.


    "Inform them that I''ll send more vampires to fulfill his bidding, provided he agrees to allow the capture of additional subjects for testing. This research is essential for the future of our race, after all."Dracula continued, indifferent to the suffering his orders would inflict upon the humans, as long as it served his own interests.


    Baron Blood nodded vigorously, a glint of eagerness in his eyes, desperate to curry favor with his master.


    "Now leave; I have much to ponder," Dracula commanded, flicking his wrist dismissively.


    Baron Blood vanished instantly, the air shimmering in his wake as the vampire lord was left alone in the cavernous throne room.


    The silence settled around him like a shroud, allowing his thoughts to spiral into the depths of his dark ambitions.


    Dracula tapped his long, bony fingers against the cold stone of his throne, each rhythmic sound echoing in the vast chamber.


    Lost in thought, he examined the new chessboard slowly laid out before him, the usual game that always brought him great entertainment against his old so-called nemesis, the Van Helsing family or what was left of it.


    Strategies whirled through his mind like shadows, each move calculated as he contemplated how to exploit Abraham''s weaknesses and turn the tide of their eternal one sided conflict to bring about more amusement for him.


    ''Oh Abraham, I cannot wait to see that look of despair when I crush this new acquaintance of yours.''

 Chapter 76 - 75: On The Marvel Radar

    Chapter 76: Chapter 75: On The Marvel Radar


    The Next Day,


    "NO!" Abraham shouted, frantically stuffing his bags while Father Sebastian struggled to hold him back.


    "Seb, you''re my closest friend, the last guy on this sh*tty rock who still believes in me, but I can''t leave this world yet, I can''t leave her." Abraham''s eyes brimmed with immense sadness as Father Sebastian closed his own, weighed down by the moment.


    "The Vatican is willing to grant you access to the vault if you assist in helping the Black Knight obtain mana-"


    "Do you see this?" Abraham yanked down his shirt, revealing a massive, grotesque scar just above his heart.


    "Does it look like I have any mana left?" Abraham snapped, his voice trembling with frustration.


    "Do you not understand-"


    "I am not asking as Father Sebastian, but as your friend. Abraham, please help him." Father Sebastian shamelessly asked, leaving Abraham utterly baffled as he wiped his mouth, as if that simple gesture could somehow erase the shock.


    "Why? Seb, you know he''s not a good person, he doesn''t deserve your kindness or any kindness whatsoever!" Abraham exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief.


    "It doesn''t matter," Father Sebastian insisted, his voice steady with conviction.


    "God has chosen him, and I am here to carry out His will. Whether it leads to a better tomorrow or the destruction of it all, I will follow through." Father Sebastian After yesterday''s events, Sebastian was certain his original hypothesis, that he was divinely chosen, was correct.


    *Sigh*


    Abraham dragged his aching bones onto a chair, burying his face in his hands.


    He couldn''t wrap his mind around it since Ricky was everything a saint shouldn''t be, yet somehow, for reasons beyond him, he had been bestowed actual holy power.


    "After I teach him the basics, I''m out of here," Abraham declared, standing up as Father Sebastian smiled warmly at him, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.


    "Thank you Abraham."


    Meanwhile at the training grounds,


    "DAMMIT, I''M SORRY! HOW MANY TIMES DO I HAVE TO SAY IT?" Ricky shouted, swinging his sword as he vented his frustration at his sentient trench coat.


    The trench coat extended its sleeve, revealing a slight rip, then pointed at Ricky and back at the tear, as if to emphasize the damage was his fault.


    "I KNOW I DID THAT BUT I-URGH!" Ricky threw the wooden sword on the ground in frustration.


    This trench coat was infuriating; every time Ricky tried to put it back into the inventory space, it would freak out the moment he pulled it out again.


    Ricky actually listened to Abraham''s words and tried to conceal the trench coat at first. However, when he began attempting to learn and use its abilities, the coat stubbornly protested after coming out of the inventory space and in the midst of the struggle, he accidentally ripped it while wearing it training.


    "I think it''s asking you not to apologize, but to heal it," Percival chimed in, glancing over as Henry picked up one of his cards, revealing a pair of threes.


    However, that was only partly true; the trench coat did want an apology, and it wouldn''t accept any repairs until it received a reasonable one.


    "How am I supposed to do that, I can''t sew?" Ricky said in a baffled tone, and he could''ve sworn the trench coat rolled its nonexistent eyes in response.


    The coat then began waving its arms around frantically, communicating with Ricky before eventually catching the attention of a nearby person.


    "You probably need to heal it with mana, kid," Abraham said as he walked over from the side and the trench coat visibly relaxed and pointed at him, as if grateful for the suggestion.


    "Hmmmmmm," Ricky mused, suddenly recalling the mythic magic core still hovering in his inventory.


    "How did I even get this mana, or magic, or whatever you call it?" Ricky asked outright, his brow furrowed in confusion and Abraham scoffed in response, shaking his head.


    "Listen, kid, it doesn''t work like that. Either you''ve got it or you don''t," Abraham said, pointing at him and shaking his head in exasperation.


    "I don''t know why Seb wants me to teach you about it, because I know for a fact that you don''t have it," Abraham said arrogantly, striding over to a rock to take a seat.


    "Honestly, in my view, your use of holy power is pretty useless if you can''t use magic; it really dampens the potential you can obtain," Abraham yawned, leaning back against a nearby rock.


    "But I literally have a magic core-"


    "HA!" Abraham laughed heartily at Ricky, slapping his knee and wiping a tear from his eye.


    "Back in the day I-what are you doing?" Abraham stood up, his eyes fixed on Ricky as a captivating circular object appeared in Ricky''s hand, radiating such a mystic aura that it left him in awe, unable to fully comprehend its power.


    Abraham knew deep down that he shouldn''t underestimate Ricky, but his pride held him back from believing that Ricky could continue to defy his expectations.


    He gazed at the hovering core next to Ricky, a mixture of skepticism and curiosity in his eyes.


    [Do you wish to merge Aetherial Nexus Core with your own heart]


    [Yes/No]


    "B-But even still, even if that is somehow a magic core to transplant it is utterly impossible with a body that cannot access magic-"


    ''Yes.''


    The core slowly melted into Ricky''s palm, and he felt it begin to course through his being.


    Abraham froze in place, stunned by something that should have been literally impossible, given all his years of studying core magic.


    ''This doesn''t seem so-'' Ricky thought to himself as he felt the core melt into a viscous form, being absorbed into his skin. It traveled through his bloodstream, making its way directly to his heart.


    *THUMP*


    Ricky immediately dropped to his knees as the Aetherial Nexus Core settled into his heart, his entire face reddening from the strain as the veins on his body buldged.


    "I-I think I need some help." Ricky muttered in agony, the pain far surpassing anything he had ever experienced before, and he fell over onto his side.


    Foam began to spew from his mouth as black ooze trickled from his eyes, nose, and ears, his body convulsing violently.


    "YOU IDIOT!" Abraham finally realized what Ricky had just done and rushed to his side, pulling out seven vials filled with a sparkling blue liquid.


    He opened Ricky''s mouth and poured the pure magical energy into him, feeling it already soak into his core by the time it reached his tongue.


    Ricky''s eyes flickered continuously until his consciousness gave out, his heart raging to the tune of a drum until a shockwave rippled out from him.


    "Oh no." Abraham exhaled sharply, his eyes wide with fear. In a sudden, frantic motion, he crushed the remaining vials in his hand, spinning them in a circle.


    The shattered glass and their contents scattered through the air, a desperate attempt to fend off the escalating power radiating from Ricky.


    ''What the hell did you get your hands on kid.''


    Meanwhile in the Otherworld,


    The familiar and luscious silhouette of Morgan Le Fey jerked to the side as she stood up, advancing with graceful steps.


    "My queen-" A necrotic butler hovered at her side, his voice low and unsettling as he inquired about her needs.


    "Silence." Morgan waved her hand, causing the undead butler''s mouth to vanish as she gazed out from her accumulated walls.


    Her eyes peered through the barriers that confined her, tilting her head in curiosity before a small, enigmatic smile graced her lips.


    "Ready my chambers." Morgan turned to the butler, who bowed deeply before hurrying to carry out her commands as she then turned back, her focus sharp and intent.


    "It seems that this new Black Knight is an interesting one."


    Meanwhile In Transylvania,


    Dracula hummed a tune as he poured a scarlet liquid into a wine glass, but suddenly, his head jerked to the side.


    His pupils dilated, and in an instant, his body vanished, reappearing above the castle walls with a sneer until the shockwave settled around him as he slowly stood silently.


    "Baron Blood." Dracula uttered a low, ominous sound, his voice reverberating through the air as a figure appeared below him, kneeling in submission.


    "Carry out the night raid."


    Meanwhile In the mountains of Colorado,


    "Agatha, did I do well?" A young witch scurried over to Agatha, bending down to observe the vial with wide, curious eyes.


    "Oh child, how many times do I have to tell you not to use so much grass root?" Agatha patted the girl''s head gently, and the little one sighed contentedly before scurrying back to join the other girls.


    "Listen children, potion brewing-" Agatha was about to launch into a lecture when her eyes narrowed and she abruptly looked up.


    "Patrice, inform the elder to lock down New Salem" Agatha''s voice rang out, causing a teenage witch to show surprise.


    The girl quickly held out her hands, summoning numerous characters that materialized around her.


    "Mistress Agatha, do you need assistance?" A young witch emerged from the nearby shadows, stepping up to Agatha''s side, but Agatha shook her head, signaling her to stay back.


    "No, stay here." Agatha spoke firmly as she conjured a portal in front of her, the swirling energy illuminating her determined expression.


    "I need to see this anomaly for myself."


    Meanwhile In Kamar-Taj,


    "No, this-...this cannot be?" A bald woman opened her eyes, and as the necklace dropped from her neck, it snapped shut, encircling her with an air of mystique.


    "Ancient one!" A sorcerer rushed into her chambers and bowed tentatively, but she raised her hand to silence him, her expression commanding attention.


    "I know, contact the Vatican and send assistance." The Ancient One rose to her full height as the numerous monks around her began to echo her words, their voices creating a resonant


    Clutching her eyes, she realized that the events she had meticulously planned for centuries had completely vanished in an instant.


    Over the last five years, the future had become increasingly skewed, distorting the timeline''s primary trajectory, with only one clear factor emerging as the source of the problem.


    "It seems that it is time to converse with Ricky."


    Meanwhile In A Hell Dimension,


    "Oh?" A figure shrouded in darkness spoke, gazing upward with a sly smirk that hinted at hidden knowledge and intentions.


    "Well, this is interesting."


    A few hours later,


    Hours passed, and Ricky endured the most excruciating pain he had ever faced. Abraham had emptied over seventy-five vials into him before Ricky''s skin began to regain some color.


    After carefully moving him to a bed, Abraham settled into a nearby chair, patiently waiting for Ricky to wake up so he could properly scold him.


    *GASP*


    "SMACK*


    Ricky gasped for breath, but in the next second, Abraham slapped him sharply across the face.


    "Gross, what is that smell?" Ricky''s face contorted in disgust before he realized it was his own body odor permeating the air.


    "Where did you get that core?" Abraham asked, skipping the pleasantries entirely as Ricky let out a weary sigh in response.


    "Listen it''s not what it looks like-"


    "No, it is." Abraham halted, his eyes widening with concern as he gazed at Ricky''s heart, sensing something was profoundly wrong.


    "Whatever you merged with is unlike anything I''ve ever seen. The purity of your magical power is even greater than what I had in my youth." Abraham informed Ricky, who instinctively touched his heart in response.


    "Let''s skip the usual babble of you being a brat about being right. So, where in the hell did you get it?" Abraham squinted, his gaze sharp and accusatory.


    Not even in his wildest dreams could he have predicted what Ricky had pulled off, no matter how prepared he thought he was.


    "It fell from the sky." Ricky offered the lamest excuse he could muster, and Abraham''s flat expression made it clear he wasn''t buying it at all.


    "....."


    Ricky and Abraham exchanged blank stares, both wearing expressions of disbelief as Abraham shook his head, scratching his beard in frustration as he processed the situation.


    "Whatever, you''re going to die anyway, so good luck," Abraham said with a shrug, picking up his suitcase.


    Ricky flinched at the bluntness of his words, a mix of annoyance and concern flashing across his face.


    "But I''m fine-"


    "Yeah, for now. But when you merged with your core, you acted as a beacon, and while I managed to contain it to only earth, most of the world felt it." Abraham pointed at Ricky, his frown deepening.


    "You don''t get it. Magic is one of the most sensitive energies in the galaxy, and after you combined it with whatever that was, your syncing sent a ripple through that state of energy, completely skewing everyone''s perception," Abraham explained, watching as Ricky''s confusion deepened. It was clear he had no grasp of the intricacies of magic.


    "They might not know where you are for now, but it won''t take long. I need to be gone once that shit show starts," Abraham said, only for his body to be yanked back suddenly.


    "Okay, listen, I get that it might''ve been a stupid move and I shouldn''t have been so hasty with using the core, but now that I''ve got magic, aren''t you going to teach me-"


    "HA!" Abraham exclaimed with a short, ironic laugh, shaking his head in disbelief.


    "Kid, even if I''d known, it wouldn''t have stopped the powers invested in the world of magic from feeling that ripple." Abraham said, grabbing his head in distress as he gazed intently at Ricky''s heart.


    "Whatever that was, whatever you found, it shouldn''t be considered or comprehended, but for some reason, it''s now implanted in you." Abraham tapped Ricky''s heart before shaking his head in disbelief.


    "I can''t afford to get involved in this-"


    *RUMBLE*


    The whole room shook violently, sending objects clattering to the floor. Ricky barely managed to steady himself as Abraham, his eyes wide with urgency, grabbed his bag and dashed out of the room.


    "F*ck!" Abraham cursed under his breath as he bolted out of the room, suitcase in hand, leaving Ricky behind without a second thought.


    "Dammit!" Abraham hissed in pain, nicking his finger on the sharp edge of the dress as a droplet of blood splashed onto the floor.


    "Young Ricky, you must follow him now!" Alexander scurried over, and Percival nodded in agreement from the side.


    Meanwhile, the trench coat magically draped itself over Ricky, prompting him to look down and notice that the cut had completely healed.


    "Oh so now we''re buddies now-wait." Ricky stood up, a sudden realization dawning on him.


    "Where are Chores and Barko?"


    In a small room near the servants'' quarters, Chores and Barko lounge comfortably, flipping through the stacks of literature that Father Sebastian had provided.


    Though friends and associates of Ricky, they had been asked to remain patient while he faced his trials, a request they accepted with enthusiasm.


    The atmosphere was thick with the scent of old pages and the low hum of conversation, as they discussed the various stories and theories they encountered, eager to absorb the knowledge that surrounded them.


    "Do you think Slick passed?" Barko glanced up from the worn, little book as the rumbling persisted.


    "Probably," Chores agreed, turning the page.


    "Should we-"


    *Sigh*


    "Yeah probably."


    *RUMBLE*


    As Ricky dashed out of the room, he saw that Abraham had vanished down the hallway and without hesitation, he turned back to retrieve Alexander.


    "Have you lost his tail!?" Alexander asked, scurrying onto Ricky''s shoulder as Henry perched on his head.


    "Yeah I-wait." Ricky''s gaze dropped to the small speck of blood, his eyes widening and without hesitation, he reached into his inventory and pulled out an orb.


    (Legendary Item) Seeker''s Orb: This orb will reveal the whereabouts of any being with a single piece of hair, drop of blood, or anything that might pertain to the being''s anatomy.


    Ricky rushed over, opening the orb just in time to catch the drop of blood before it hit the ground.


    A brief flash lit up the orb as the blood was absorbed, but instead of the usual darkness, an arrow appeared, pointing in a specific direction as a smile spread across his face.


    "Let''s go find the gang first," Ricky chuckled darkly, his eyes flickering toward the sword resting nearby as a devious thought crossed his mind as he stared at it.


    "Oh, that''s cool." Ricky said as the sword suddenly flew into his hand at the mere thought of it.


    Percival, standing nearby, looked startled but remained silent, continuing to observe.


    ''Kill~'' A voice echoed in Ricky''s head as he sighed softly, slipping into the iconic Black Knight armor and pulling out his gauntlets.


    The whispers of his past killings had grown more intense, gnawing at his mind and each time he tried to block them out, the sword vibrated violently in his hand, its resentment palpable, as if punishing him for ignoring it.


    Percival had once advised him to let the sword in, to build a so-called ''connection'' with it, but the idea unnerved Ricky more with every passing day at something being lodged in his head alongside the system.


    But at a certain point, he realized that true growth also required him to step outside his comfort zone, so he made the decision to start doing just that and dropped the barrier around his mind.


    As Ricky sprinted out of the building, his pupils trembled in shock and all around him, attacks rained down, yet a dome-like structure shielded the area, deflecting the onslaught.


    "HOLD THE LINE, WE MUSTN''T LET THESE MONSTERS INTO GOD''S HOUSE!" A priest screeched as multiple glowing crosses appeared, their light intensifying just as the dome began to flicker under their radiant assault.


    It was then, as a golden flare shot into the sky, that Ricky truly grasped the horror of what a night raid entailed.


    Hordes of ghouls, numbering in the hundreds, surged toward the dome in relentless waves.


    Their grotesque forms were twisted and decayed, with rotting flesh hanging from their bones, eyes glowing with a feral hunger.


    As they clawed at the holy barrier, their long, bony fingers scraped against the surface, leaving behind trails of ichor and grime.


    The dome flickered and shimmered under the onslaught, but the relentless assault only intensified.


    With each futile swipe, the ghouls were engulfed in searing light, their bodies bursting into flames.


    They screamed in agony, the sound a horrifying mix of wails and gurgles, as they were consumed by the fire, turning to ash and cinders.


    Yet, even as one fell, another undead creature took its place, undeterred by the fate of its predecessor.


    The ground was littered with charred remains, but the relentless tide of the undead surged forward, their ranks never seeming to diminish.


    "CHILD!" Father Sebastian rushed over to him, and Ricky turned his gaze to the side, spotting Chores and Barko trailing behind.


    "Oh thank god yo-"


    "!" Father Sebastian grabbed Ricky, his eyes widening in shock as he halted his line of questioning.


    "Listen very carefully to me, this is of the utmost importance." Father Sebastian''s words flowed with a calm clarity, providing a soothing counterpoint to the chaos of war.


    "What is going on!" Barko shouted, his voice rising above the cacophony as he stared at the relentless attacks hammering against the dome, panic etched across his face.


    "You need to find Abraham and leave this place immediately. Do not trust or speak to anyone until you are beyond the bounds of these sacred grounds. Do you understand?" Father Sebastian''s words were shocking, leaving Ricky bewildered as he tried to grasp the urgency behind them.


    "But this-"


    "Ricky, the Vatican harbors deadly foes within its walls just as much as it does outside," Father Sebastian warned, his voice low and urgent.


    Chores narrowed his eyes, scanning their surroundings before noticing the numerous priests watching them with sidelong glances, slowly encircling the two as Ricky''s confusion slowly turned into a squint.


    Father Sebastian''s hands trembled on Ricky''s shoulders, a sign of his growing unease.


    "Slick, we need to go." Chores said, stepping to Ricky''s side as more eyes began to turn in their direction, the weight of their scrutiny palpable in the tense atmosphere.


    "Descendant, you need to run right now," Percival whispered urgently as Ricky glanced at Father Sebastian, and in that brief moment, they exchanged a silent understanding through their eyes.


    Without hesitation, Ricky sprinted backward, just as Father Sebastian slammed his hand down, releasing a large puff of smoke that billowed around him, obscuring the growing danger and providing Ricky with a momentary shield to escape.


    "GET HIM!" Priests yelled in alarm as Father Sebastian''s hands ignited with holy light, illuminating the darkened space.


    Suddenly, ropes of radiant light shot out from his fingertips, slicing through the air toward the encroaching threats, creating a barrier that glimmered with divine energy.


    "WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS FAHTER-SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" A priest shouted, but before he could finish, his body disintegrated into black ashes, a chilling testament to the overwhelming power unleashed in the room.


    Father Sebastian''s face went pale, the shock of the violent transformation leaving him visibly shaken as he realized the gravity of the situation.


    "The Vatican has truly been infiltrated." Father Sebastian spoke, his voice steady despite the chaos, as the smoke cleared to reveal him standing defiantly in front of the corrupted members of the holy church.


    Their forms twisting and malevolent gazes stood in stark contrast to his unwavering resolve, a beacon of righteousness amidst the encroaching darkness.


    "Give us the Black Knight, Father Sebastian, or we''ll be forced to unleash the gifts our masters have bestowed upon us," one of the priests sneered, revealing sharp fangs that glinted menacingly in the dim light.


    Father Sebastian''s eyes hardened, turning icy as he prepared to stand his ground against the sinister threat before him.


    "Never."


    *RUMBLE*


    "Slick, where are we going!" Barko shouted from behind Ricky, who stood resolute with Chores by his side, both ready to confront the unfolding chaos.


    "Wherever this orb says!" Ricky urged him to stay focused as Alexander glanced at the orb, his expression shifting as realization dawned on him.


    "Young Ricky, the arrow is slightly pointing down!" Alexander gestured toward the orb, and Ricky stared at it in confusion until, without warning, it suddenly pointed backward, illuminating a path they hadn''t noticed before.


    "What the." Ricky halted, watching as the arrow in the orb slowly shifted to point forward again as his gaze dropped to the ground, where faint markings hinted at an unseen path ahead.


    "Is he-"


    "Descendant, channel your magical power along with the ebony blade and condense it into a slash," Percival instructed as Ricky grasped the sword tightly, closing his eyes to focus, feeling the energy surge within him as he sought to unite his magic with the blade''s dark essence.


    The dormant magic power within his heart responded to his call, surging through his arms and into the blade.


    Ricky could feel the energy intertwining with the sword''s dark essence, creating a palpable force that thrummed with intensity, ready to be unleashed.


    The magical energies resonated with the properties of the ebony blade, harmonizing into a single potent force as Ricky swung his arm downward.


    The air crackled around him, charged with anticipation, as he prepared to unleash the concentrated power.


    *Whoosh*


    With a single, powerful slash, the ground before him split apart, creating a large crevasse that revealed a hidden tunnel beneath.


    "Holy sh*t." Ricky pondered, his gaze fixed on the sword as he felt its weight and power in his hands as Percival stood nearby, arms crossed.


    "That''s why it''s wise to listen to your elders and not toss them into strange dark places," Percival remarked, a hint of amusement in his voice as he nodded toward the crevasse, emphasizing the lesson behind the chaos.


    "Here ye." Alexander chimed in with a grin, adding to the banter as Ricky grabbed Barko and leaped into the hole, with Chores following closely behind.


    "Oh Abraham~" As Ricky landed in the hall, a menacing laughter escaped him from behind, echoing through the dark space and in the distance, he caught sight of Abraham.


    "You little brat!" Abraham gnashed his teeth in frustration before continuing to run.


    Rushing forward, Ricky erupted into laughter, effortlessly closing the gap between them and just as he caught up, Abraham instinctively pushed him away, a look of urgency on his face.


    "Seb told you about this route, right? Damn it, I knew being his friend for forty years was a bad idea," Abraham sighed, glancing back at Ricky before his gaze shifted to Chores and Barko, who were following closely behind.


    "Oh, I forgot about you two," Abraham said, his voice laced with mild exasperation as Chores and Barko exchanged weary glances.


    Sighing in unison but nodding, knowing all too well that this kind of oversight was typical for them.


    "And what''s your deal? Are you still upset about me leaving you for dead that one time?" Abraham teased, pointing at Ricky with a dramatically exaggerated grieving expression.


    "I''m sorry, happy!?" Abraham feigned his deepest apologies, putting on an earnest expression, but Ricky maintained a plain, unamused look.


    "No you''re not."


    "Ok, I''m not, but I already apologized so does it really matter?" Abraham''s expression turned serious, his demeanor unforgiving as he glared at Ricky.


    But Ricky, undeterred, patted his shoulder reassuringly, a hint of camaraderie breaking through the tension between them.


    "Let''s go." Ricky gave a thumbs up, but Abraham sighed, grabbing his necklace and shaking his head in response.


    *SIGH*


    "Come on, I guess." Abraham beckoned to them, starting to jog out of the tunnel.


    "So, what did I end up doing?" Ricky asked, but Abraham responded with a fit of hysterical laughter, the sound echoing through the tunnel.


    "You somehow managed to provoke monsters and demons into actively attacking the most holy place on Earth, which I have to admit, is an achievement in itself," Abraham said to Ricky, laughter still in his voice.


    Chores facepalmed in disbelief, shaking his head at the absurdity of the situation.


    "Slick, we were gone for like two days, what did ya do!" Chores yelled at him, making Ricky cough and hold up a finger.


    "It was an accident-"


    "HA! YOU LITERALLY DID IT TO SPITE ME!" Abraham yelled back, and Ricky''s eyebrows twitched in irritation, a mix of frustration and amusement flashing across his face.


    "ALRIGHT, FINE! IT''S MY FAULT! I''M SORRY FOR DOING IT OUT OF COMPLETE SPITE! IS THAT WHAT ALL OF YOU WANT TO HEAR?!" Ricky shouted, his voice echoing off the tunnel walls as his exasperation bubbled over.


    "YES!" Everyone in the hall, including Henry, nodded in acknowledgment as Ricky frowned.


    "So what now?" Ricky turned to Abraham and asked, but Abraham merely scoffed in response.


    "What else, we get out of here."


    2 hours later,


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    "Father, Kamar-taj wishes to-"


    "Allow access, we need their help." Father Sebastian wiped the sweat from his forehead, turning back to face the remaining priests.


    Around him lay dozens of corrupted clergy, a grim testament to his solitary battle against a small army.


    In the next moment, portals flickered into existence, and a group of monks emerged, led by a particular woman.


    She surveyed the chaotic scene, her sharp eyes assessing the damage and the urgency of the situation.


    "We are pleased that Kamar-Taj is willing to assist in our most trivial of times." Father Sebastian smiled at the Ancient One, who raised an eyebrow at the surrounding corrupted priests..


    "This is-"


    "Do not fret, it happens to all places once in a while." The Ancient One raised her hand, gesturing with a fluid motion that strengthened the barrier in an instant, reinforcing the protective shield around them.


    "The pope?" The Ancient One inquired, her voice steady and probing, as Father Sebastian scratched the back of his head, a sheepish look crossing his face.


    "Of course, he''s deposed." The Ancient one sighed as she looked around to see the numerous creatures attacking the barrier.


    "Where is he?" The Ancient One sighed, her gaze sweeping across the scene to take in the multitude of creatures relentlessly attacking the barrier, their twisted forms clawing at the shimmering shield with ferocious intensity.


    "I don''t-"


    "Where is Ricky Luciano?" The Ancient One squinted, her tone laced with a knowing authority that made Father Sebastian fall silent, realizing that she was fully aware of the dire situation at hand.


    "So, you sent him off." The Ancient One sighed, pointing decisively as five monks rushed past her, sprinting in the direction Father Sebastian had gone.


    "This isn''t about him-"


    "Of course it is, do you paint me as a fool?" The Ancient One shook her head, walking in front of Father Sebastian with a determined stride, her presence commanding attention as she moved forward.


    "Do you realize how special that mere teenager really is?" The Ancient One asked, her curiosity evident as Father Sebastian glanced down at the ground, contemplating her words with a heavy heart.


    "I understand he''s taken the mantle of the Black knight but after we find him, I will be taking him back-"


    "I apologize, but that won''t be happening," Pius said, stepping out of the nearby building.


    The Ancient One turned to him, a fake smile plastered on her face, masking the tension in the air.


    "Pope Pius, it is-"


    "The Black Knight is a position under the Vatican. You may converse with him, but any attempts at forceful subjection will result in the deterioration of our treaty," Pius said, his voice clammy as he raised his hand.


    Suddenly, the barrier glowed intensely, and a cacophony of screams from the damned echoed around them, filling the air with a chilling urgency.


    "You do not know what he is capable of-"


    "Maybe not, but I assure you it would be better for him to remain under our care rather than with someone who only thinks of themselves," Pius concluded, his tone final as the Ancient One recognized the weight of his words, aware of the underlying implications in their conversation.


    "Very well, I''ll relent." The Ancient One beckoned to him, turning around to give him a sidelong glance, her expression revealing both intrigue and caution.


    "For now."


    Meanwhile at the end of the tunnel,


    "A boat?" Ricky asked a question, only to see Abraham sprinkling some dust over it, instantly turning it invincible with a flourish of his hand.


    "This is where we part ways-"


    "I''ve never seen an invincible boat before." Ricky spoke first as he stepped into the boat, and in an instant, his form vanished, becoming invisible to anyone who might have been watching.


    "Slick, you disappeared!" Barko let out a gasp of amazement, realizing that this feat seemed to defy all known science, leaving him in awe of the mysterious powers at play.


    "No way!" Ricky called out as he jumped off the boat, his form becoming visible once more to their surprised eyes.


    "Can you-"


    "Invisible, not invisible, invisible, not-"


    "GOD DAMMIT, JUST GET IN!" Abraham shouted as he forcefully pushed Ricky into the boat, everyone following suit and scrambling inside.


    Once they were all settled, Abraham shoved the boat into the river, finally letting out a sigh of relief.


    He gazed up at the vibrant flashes of color lighting up the night sky, a stark contrast to the chaos they had just escaped.


    "You want some advice that you''ll never take?" Abraham leaned back in the boat, letting the tension of the moment wash away, while Ricky removed his helmet and ran a hand through his tousled black hair, feeling the cool breeze on his scalp.


    "Why not." Ricky echoed the sentiment, taking on a similar posture as he leaned against the side of the boat, facing Abraham with a relaxed demeanor.


    "Just leave all this behind and move to a place like Iceland. Sure, there are Nordic vampires there, but they''re the weakest group, so you''ll rarely run into them," Abraham suggested, taking a swig from his flask, a hint of humor in his tone as he envisioned a quieter life.


    "I really don''t think it would matter, since wherever Slick goes, trouble seems to follow," Chores chimed in, shaking his head with a small sigh following it.


    It was a familiar refrain; every time he was with Ricky, he found himself knee-deep in the trenches of chaos.


    "What''s your deal, Abraham? Every chance you get, you always talk about leaving this all behind to live a peaceful life. Why can''t you just do it?" Ricky asked, watching as Abraham closed his eyes and took another drink from his flask, seemingly lost in thought.


    "Because that''s all I want," Abraham replied, screwing the cap back onto his flask before tucking it away in his coat.


    "All I ever wanted was to be free, to live on a random farm and tend to my crops," Abraham said, his fingers skimming the surface of the water.


    "I wanted to raise a family and live a life of peace." Abraham sighed lightly while looking up, the flashes of light illuminating his face, a stark contrast to the chaos that surrounded him.


    "But you became a vampire hunter-"


    "No, I was born a vampire hunter; I didn''t get a choice." Abraham closed his eyes tightly, trying to block out the screams that echoed relentlessly in his mind.


    "Oh, come on. Isn''t that what free will is? Everyone has a choice." Ricky said, gesturing toward Abraham, who scoffed in response


    "When I was four, I had already killed my first vampire, and by the time I was sixteen, I was leading the entire Van Helsing family," Abraham bragged, prompting Ricky to tilt his head in curiosity.


    "Where are-"


    "They''re all dead." Abraham gestured with an ironic smile, scratching his scruffy beard as if relishing the memory with an ironic sad smile.


    "Cause of the amulet-"


    "Because of Dracula. Look, I don''t want to talk about it, so can you just drop it?" Abraham held up his hand, pulling out the flask once more to begin his night of drinking.


    "Come on, I feel like it''s a good story-"


    "Good? Do I look like I ended with a f*cking happy ending?" Abraham let out an ironic laugh, gesturing toward himself.


    "Now that you mention it, you do look like a washed-up drunk living off your glory days," Ricky joked, and Abraham raised his flask in a toast to that.


    "Amen." Abraham sulked backward as he spoke, and just as Ricky was about to respond, Chores shook his head, signaling him to hold back.


    "Fine, I''ll let it go for now." Ricky shrugged as Abraham gazed into the distance.


    They sailed across the river, reaching the docks in the dead of midnight and as Abraham disembarked from the boat, the rest of the gang followed suit.


    "Alright, this is where we part ways-"


    "Nope, teach me magic." Ricky spoke up, feeling lost amidst the newfound forces he had acquired.


    After pressing Percival further, he learned that the only magic he knew involved the sword and even then, his magic knowledge was minimal at best as his entire life was focused on his swordsmanship.


    "Kid, I''m not teaching you, I got a mission-"


    "How about this: I''ll help you kill vampires, and in return, you teach me magic," Ricky proposed suddenly as Abraham scoffed at first but then paused, realizing just how powerful Ricky had become.


    "Hmmmmm." Abraham rubbed his chin thoughtfully as he made his way to a local tavern.


    Meanwhile, Ricky discreetly plucked the ring from Alexander''s waist and slipped it back onto his own finger.


    "I''ll think about it."Abraham yawned, and Ricky nodded in response, his gaze shifting upwards to the night sky, where stars twinkled like distant promises against the dark expanse.


    ''Status''


    [Status]


    Name: Ricky Luciano


    Titles: Deadbeat, Royal Thug, Prodigal Son


    Age: 15


    Born: October, 27, 1918


    Race: Human


    Strength: 34 (Lower realm of Superhuman strength)


    Stamina: 30 (Lower realm of Superhuman.)


    Vitality: 38 (Lower realm of Superhuman.)


    Agility: 28(Above peak adult male)


    Dexterity: 32(Lower realm of Superhuman strength)


    Intelligence: 7 (You''ve grown but that doesn''t mean your not an Idiot)


    Mana: 30 (Lower realm of Superhuman.)


    Charm: 31 (Your charm is at the peak of humanity and at the cusp of superhuman)


    Appearance: 32 (A superhuman appearance that transcends humans.)


    The implementation of the core hadn''t just granted him magic; it also purified a portion of his body, which had been tarnished by his reckless consumption of alcohol and neglect.


    In a way, it even enchanted him on several levels, enhancing his physical condition and resilience in ways he had never anticipated.


    ''How come the stronger I get, the more exhausting life becomes?'' Ricky thought, closing his eyes.


    The boat glided over the water, following a steady course until it finally arrived at the bustling docks of a coastal city before walking to the nearest inn.


    "Hello, do have a reservation-"


    "Where''s your guys bar?" Ricky turned to the man with the pencil-thin mustache, who looked a bit taken aback by the question.


    "Over there-"


    "Thanks." Ricky thanked the dock worker with a warm smile, then hurried over to the boat.


    "How much for two rooms?" Chores inquired, pulling out a small bag filled with currency he had exchanged from the Vatican.


    "One hundred Lira." The man spoke, and Chores nodded as he handed over the money, receiving two keys in return.


    Abraham got a room as well but didn''t linger to chat; he simply headed up the stairs while Ricky was handed his first drink.


    "Have you ever heard an American saying that it''s better to drink with a stranger than to drink alone?" Ricky asked, lifting his glass as he leaned over to flirt with the only girl at the bar.


    Her black hair cascaded down her back, a single white stripe running through it, perfectly aligning with her ocean-blue eyes as they turned toward him.


    "Is that so?" The woman smiled warmly, her red lips curving into an inviting arch.


    "Slick, your room key." Chores placed the key in front of Ricky, who pocketed it before strolling away with Barko.


    "Is that your name, Slick?" The girl tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear and asked.


    "That''s what people tend to call me, but you can call me Ricky. The more important question is, what should I call you?" Ricky extended his hand, and she smiled warmly in response.


    "Agatha."


    *DING*


    Author''s Note: I''m trying to fix my sleep schedule and just didn''t feel like doing anything yesterday, so here are both Chapters combined into one.

 Chapter 77 - 76: Dommy Mommy Alert (R18)

    Chapter 77: Chapter 76: Dommy Mommy Alert (R18)


    [Mission Received: Agatha Harkness.]


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: S


    Description: Agatha is a witch that governs over one of the most powerful witch covens in the world and has been around America since Salem. However, although Agatha is a woman of immense magical prowess and strength within her community, at times she becomes overwhelmed with stress and looks for ways to relieve it in a very physical and demanding way.


    Objective: Help Agatha relieve her stress and give her a gift with it


    Reward: 100,000


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once:


    Rewards: 150 Gacha or Agatha''s Magical Powers


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Sleep with her within your first encounter with Agatha(Incomplete):


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Impregnate Agatha within her coven(Incomplete):


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Completely mind f*ck the witch who is known for her arts in mind control(Incomplete):


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    [D-


    ''Damn she''s fine.'' Ricky thought as he leaned his head against the palm of his hand, tracing his eyes alongside her curves.


    Needless to say, her hair was the first eye-catching feature as the white stripe grabbed your attention until her luscious locks flowed down her back.


    In the soft light, they shimmered like polished silver, drawing your gaze to her face as she wore a chic, form-fitting dress.


    The fabric clung to her in all the right places, accentuating her hourglass figure, while modestly flowing just past her knees.


    The high neckline was contrasted by the cinched waist and sleek, tailored lines, hinting at the power beneath her polished exterior.


    The dress, a rich, deep burgundy, highlighted her pale, flawless skin, making her appear both refined and mysterious.


    Her gloved hands moved with an effortless grace, fingers tracing invisible patterns in the air as she spoke, each gesture filled with a restrained sensuality.


    The stockings beneath her skirt shimmered slightly, drawing your attention to the perfectly poised way she crossed her legs, a subtle but deliberate show of confidence.


    Her presence was magnetic, each detail from the slight curl of her hair to the tasteful heel on her shoes, exuding a dark, irresistible charm, as though she had long mastered the art of commanding attention without uttering a single word.


    Her red lips, painted in the fashion of the time, curved into a knowing smile, and beneath her sharp gaze, you couldn''t help but feel a mix of alertness and a very subtle hint of danger.


    Agatha raised an eyebrow at Ricky''s boldness, openly ogling her right in front of her, but at the same time, her eyes were quietly assessing him.


    She wasn''t just sensing the magic he exuded so naturally, but also taking in his figure, scrutinizing every detail with the same discerning intensity.


    Ricky wasn''t the only one being eyed like a piece of candy as Agatha found herself a little impressed by his sharp features, her gaze lingering on the strong cut of his jawline before trailing down to his muscled figure.


    ''At least he''s cute.'' Agatha stirred her drink slowly, her eyes never leaving Ricky.


    He raised his smile, the realization dawning on him that she was scrutinizing him just as much as he had been admiring her.


    ''She''s probably looking into me like Abraham said, but there isn''t anything wrong with milking this for all it''s worth.'' Ricky thought, a sly grin tugging at his lips.


    He saw this situation as more than just meeting someone from the magic world; it was an opportunity to engage with a drop-dead gorgeous woman who was assessing his every move.


    Her eyes weren''t just piercing through his magical essence, they were also drinking in every inch of him, analyzing his every move, and he wasn''t about to let that attention go to waste.


    "So, Agatha, what do I have to say to get more of your time?" Ricky flashed a sleazy smile, one that usually got him what he wanted as Agatha chuckled softly, an amused smile playing at her lips.


    "Isn''t it obvious? You have to ask all the right questions,"Agatha teased, leaning in slightly, her gaze subtly looking down at him, as if she were already two steps ahead.


    "Then let''s get the obvious question out of the way, what is a stunning woman like you doing in a small-town bar like this?" Ricky asked, his voice smooth, though a amused glint lingered in his eyes.


    Agatha raised an eyebrow just as the bartender shot Ricky a sharp glare, tossing his rag aside before storming off, clearly unimpressed with the exchange.


    "You really don''t hold back, do you?" Agatha mused, swirling her drink before taking a light sip, her red lipstick leaving a delicate mark on the rim of the glass.


    "I can''t waste even a second if I''m on your time," Ricky chuckled, flattering her in a lively attempt to steer the conversation back on track.


    Agatha caught the hint, her interest piqued, and leaned in slightly, ready to engage with a humorous tone.


    "Well, if you''re so desperate to know, I''m here on business," Agatha teased, her eyes transforming into crescent moons, delight dancing within them as if getting ready to enjoy watching Ricky squirm under her playful scrutiny.


    "Can I also be desperate enough to learn what that business is?" Ricky laughed heartily at her words, his expression completely unbothered, a carefree confidence radiating from him.


    "Promise you won''t tell?" Agatha leaned in, her whisper frisky as she leaned closer to Ricky, her eyes glinting with mischief.


    "Cross my heart." Ricky replied, making the crisscross gesture over his chest while mirroring her lean as his teasing demeanor matched hers.


    "I''m actually here for a story that involves the Vatican." Agatha said, glancing around before cupping a hand next to her lips to keep her words secure.


    "Whoa, you''re a reporter?" Ricky asked, leaning into her tone and playing along. Agatha nodded, her expression serious yet playful.


    "In fact, I''m looking for any leads on a story I''m investigating. Have you heard anything?" Agatha inquired, casually picking some lint off Ricky''s shirt before brushing it away, her fingers lingering slightly as they grazed his chest.


    "You know what, I actually have." Ricky showed a shocked expression, Agatha eyes tuning in as she waited for him to finish.


    "I heard there''s a powerful witch here on behalf of her coven, and what''s more, she''s lying about who she is to a dangerously handsome man with the most upfront intentions," Ricky whispered back, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth.


    Agatha''s smile stiffened as Ricky seemed to see right through her facade as she slowly turned to face him again, a mixture of surprise and caution flickering in her eyes.


    "But I''m the desperate one," Ricky finished with a playful grin, leaning back slightly as Agatha erupted into laughter, her eyes sparkling with amusement.


    She glanced to the side, momentarily caught off guard by his boldness, but the lightness of the moment hung in the air between them.


    "I see." Agatha nodded her head, looking over at Ricky before dropping the facade.


    "Then let''s consider your time for questions over; now it''s my turn," Agatha declared, as a amused glint in her blue eyes that slowly corroded into a rich purple.


    "But how about we talk about who you really are?" Agatha whispered, her voice planting seeds of temptation into his ear as the spell slowly trickled into him.


    The intensity of her words caused Ricky''s eyes to light up with a deep purple hue, captivated by her intriguing invitation.


    "Baby, I want this to work, so I think I''ll need some more honesty from you about why you''re here." Ricky said, flicking his toothpick unconsciously as he leaned in, fully countering Agatha''s charm.


    The playful energy shifted slightly, and her spell seemed to redirect back at her, making the air between them crackle with tension.


    "Isn''t it obvious, I simply want to know how you disturbed the natural order of magic-"


    "!" Agatha immediately stood up, clutching her throat as her voice faltered, stumbling backwards in surprise.


    "Talk about ruining the moment," Ricky said with a smile, his eyes gleaming with mischief as he watched Agatha completely drop her facade, revealing a serious demeanor as she processed her mental manipulation being redirected.


    Her hands were immersed in a swirling purple haze, eyes ablaze with deep violet, while her hair danced wildly in the air as if caught in an unseen wind.


    The atmosphere crackled with raw energy, a powerful aura radiating from her as she embraced the intensity of the moment.


    "How can you use or redirect witchcraft magic if you''re not a warlock by birth?" Agatha''s voice turned stern and cold as she fixed her gaze on Ricky, her intensity palpable.


    He finished his drink with a casual nonchalance, then slid Agatha''s drink towards himself, an amused grin playing on his lips as he met her piercing stare.


    "No idea," Ricky boldly lied, a playful smirk on his face as he downed her glass without a hint of shame, popping the olive into his mouth with a carefree expression.


    "Oh relax~" Ricky waved his hand dismissively, letting out a tired sigh as he massaged his forehead.


    "I''ve already had a chaotic day, so can we skip the whole ''Tell me or else we''ll fight'' routine? I''d much rather have an actual conversation with a beautiful woman like yourself, rather than get into a full blown fight with someone as captivating as you." Ricky patted the seat next to him invitingly, dismissing any option of fighting out with their respective powers.


    Agatha stood there with a wary gaze for a long moment, analyzing Ricky intently as the swirling purple light slowly dwindled from her hands.


    "Fine, but our conversation will consist of questions and truthful responses. Deal?" Agatha said, taking a seat next to him, clearly setting the rules for their exchange.


    "Why not, I''ll go first. What kind of panties are you wearing right now?" Ricky asked with a sleazy smile, eager to test just how truthful this would be, only to have Agatha lean in close to his ear.


    "I''m not wearing any." Agatha sensually whispered, and Ricky couldn''t help but whistle at her boldness, his intrigue piqued as he leaned in rather than shying away.


    "Now, how did you cause that disturbance?" Agatha asked, her curiosity evident as she leaned closer, eager to get to the heart of the matter.


    "I just awakened magic, and then everything just happened," Ricky said, skirting around the full truth as Agatha rubbed her chin thoughtfully.


    "Am I your type?" Ricky asked with a playful grin, his tone teasing as he leaned in slightly as Agatha let out a small laugh, a twinkle of amusement in her eyes as she considered his question.


    "I''d be lying if I said no," Agatha replied, a mischievous smile curling at the corners of her lips.


    With a graceful sway of her hand in the air, a drink began to materialize before them, the purple energy controlled to its utmost ability.


    "How did you redirect my magic back onto me?" Agatha asked, her tone curious yet laced with intrigue, as a martini slowly levitated into her hand, the glass shimmering as if alive with the energy of her craft.


    "It''s my X-Gene," Ricky answered casually, watching as Agatha showed a flicker of surprise before taking a sip of her martini.


    "What''s your favorite sexual position-"


    "Doggy." Agatha, without a hint of shame, interjected before he could finish.


    "What''s your view on witches?" Agatha asked, her tone shifting to a more serious note, probing into his thoughts with genuine curiosity.


    "If they''re all as breathtaking as you, then I love them," Ricky replied, seizing the opportunity to flirt as Agatha raised an eyebrow, a smirk forming on her lips.


    "Now, for my last question: would you mind accompanying me back to my room?" Ricky asked, his tone playful as he reached into his pocket, only to realize that his key was missing.


    Agatha then lifted her glass, downing it in one fell swoop, the smooth liquid disappearing with practiced ease.


    She placed some change on the counter with a casual flourish, a confident smile dancing on her lips as she turned to Ricky.


    "Yeah, why not," Agatha shrugged, a hint of stress evident in her demeanor as she regarded Ricky as nothing more than a relieving stress doll.


    "You''re cute enough, and I''ve been stressed with everything lately," Agatha admitted, her words cutting straight to the point, indicating that her interest leaned more toward his appearance than his personality before she dangled his room key in front of his face.


    "Sweet," Ricky replied, unfazed by her honesty as he, too, had been under immense stress lately and saw this as a win-win scenario.


    "Oh darling, let''s see if you can keep that little cute smile after a couple of hours~," Agatha teased, side-eyeing him with a playful smirk.


    Ricky felt a rush of heat, pitching a tent almost immediately at her daring tone as she swayed her hips in such a seductive way, leading him up the stairs.


    "Or maybe you''ll only last a couple of minutes~," Agatha winked at him, her voice dripping at the sensual challenge as Ricky responded with his signature sleazy smile,


    "I''ll guess you''ll have to find out-"


    *SNAP*


    *BAM*


    Immediately, Agatha snapped her fingers, and the door slammed shut with a resounding thud.


    Before Ricky could fully comprehend the sudden shift, his clothes were swept away by a wave of purple magic, leaving them scattered carelessly on the floor.


    At the same time, the bedsheets seemed to come alive, wrapping around Ricky''s wrists and ankles, effortlessly dragging him onto the bed and securing him to the frame.


    In a flash, his mouth was swiftly gagged, leaving him momentarily stunned and it was only after he finally registered the bizarre turn of events that Ricky looked around in bewildered curiosity.


    *Muffled words*


    "It''s nothing against you, darling, but when I said you were my type, I meant your face and body, not that sleazy mouth of yours," Agatha revealed, a smirk dancing on her lips as she gazed down at him, momentarily surprised by the view.


    "Well, it seems some came to play," Agatha teased, her eyes gleaming as she caught sight of Ricky''s thick, fully erect shaft straining against his boxers.


    "Now, let''s see what we''re working with-" Agatha, with a playful smirk, slowly pulled down his boxers, her gaze widening in awe at the sight of his meaty cock.


    Ricky let out a muffled laugh at her frozen figure, suppressing the urge to brag as he couldn''t help but shrug at Agatha''s inquisitive glance as she looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.


    *Snap*


    Agatha''s witch robes gradually morphed into a sleek dominatrix outfit, the black leather hugging her curves and leaving her breasts and pussy enticingly exposed.


    "You know, Ricky, you''ve been a real bad boy," Agatha purred as she stepped onto the bed. She pulled out her black crop tool, trailing it seductively across his chest before letting it rest firmly at the tip of his cock.


    ''So this is what you''re into-'' Ricky attempted to muffle out his words, but the effort only made Agatha smile wider.


    *Twack*


    "Urgh." Ricky slightly grunted in pain as Agatha teasingly tapped the tip of his cock.


    "Did I say you could talk?" Agatha tilted her head, tapping her crop against her free hand with a playful glint in her eyes.


    *Gulp*


    Ricky''s mind unearthed a haunting memory of when he had followed a stunning woman into a dominatrix den.


    Inside, he was unknowingly subjected to the kind of treatment most men in there would kill for, but for him, it became an unforgettable experience that left him wary of ever messing with a dominatrix again, until now.


    Shaking her head, Agatha chuckled lightly as she rested her paddle against the tip of his cock only to see Ricky become quiet.


    "Good boy," Agatha purred, licking her lips at his submissive attitude. R


    Ricky wanted to stop there, but after taking in the sight of her smoking hot body, he quickly rejected those thoughts.


    ''See it through. My God, I have to see it through.'' Ricky thought to himself, knowing that this drop-dead gorgeous woman was worth it as he knew that if he played it right he would get his chance to be in control; he just had to wait.


    "Now, Ricky, good boys get treats, but bad boys-....well, they get punished." Agatha lightly moved the paddle around his cock, teasingly emphasizing her words.


    Biting her voluptuous red lips, Agatha felt her pussy grow wet at the sight of him nodding eagerly as she squatted down.


    Firmly gripping his cock, a smile danced on her lips as she sensed its slight twitch in her tight hold.


    Bringing the tip of his cock to her glistening pussy lips, she teased him, smearing it across them and denying him entry, for now.


    "You want it don''t you~" Agatha teased him just as Ricky was on the verge of feeling the warmth of her insides.


    ''Oh, come on!'' Ricky sighed inwardly, though he nodded. Agatha smirked, drawing her paddle down his chest once more.


    "But only good boys get treats, and it wouldn''t do you any good if I just gave you my sweet, tight treat." Agatha emphasized ''tight'' winking at him as she continuously stroked her whip across his chest.


    "Bark for me; let me hear that little growl of yours-" Agatha mused, pressing the tip of his cock right at the entrance of her warmth but keeping it at bay, teasing him with the promise of what he couldn''t yet taste.


    *WUFF*


    Ricky didn''t hesitate; he shamelessly barked, not giving Agatha a moment to register her own words.


    "Good boy~" Agatha said, her smile widening as she squatted down further.


    With a gentle movement, his tip parted her lips, allowing him to savor the feeling of being in control before a smile broke across his face.


    ''Wet to the touch.''


    "Ah~" Agatha''s pussy flushed around him as his tip entered her, the strength in her legs giving way as she sank down onto his cock.


    *Gasp*


    Agatha gasped, her breath escaping her as Ricky''s cock penetrated deep into the depths of her flushed pussy, reaching places no one, not even herself, had ever touched before.


    Ricky leaned his head back, acknowledging Agatha''s earlier words; her tightness truly enveloped him, gripping his cock with a delicious intensity.


    "Oh Ricky, you bad boy~" Agatha regained her composure, licking her lips as she slowly gazed down at Ricky''s sleazy smile.


    *Twack*


    Without hesitation, Agatha slapped her paddle across his face, a small chuckle escaping her lips as she shivered at the pleasure of Ricky''s cock filling her completely.


    His face sharply turned to the side, a red mark beginning to form as he reeled in from the slap.


    "Mmmmmm~" Agatha hummed softly, each of his flinches of pain sending shivers of pleasure through her.


    *Twack*


    Just as Ricky turned his head back after the slap, Agatha struck him again, this time on the other cheek.


    "I never gave you permission to make me feel this way. Isn''t that unfair~" Agatha chuckled, her free hand gliding across his toned chest as she traced her fingers over his abs.


    "It''s only right that I get my retribution; don''t be too mad," Agatha said, looking back up at him as she adjusted to his overwhelming length deep inside her as Ricky shrugged his shoulders and winked in response.


    "Oh such a carefree response, I''m going to have so much fun breaking you-"


    *PFFFFFFFT*


    Ricky burst into laughter, prompting Agatha to raise an eyebrow as she removed his gag for her curiosity.


    "Why are you laughing?" Agatha asked, tapping her paddle against her palm with intrigue as her body twitched slightly at the subtle vibrations coursing through her sensitive form.


    Ricky maintained his sleazy smile, his eyes gesturing toward his bound mouth as Agatha looked at him for a moment before snapping her fingers, signaling to release the hold on his mouth.


    "Agatha, baby, if anyone is breaking then it''s you." Ricky taunted, gazing down at her drooling pussy, which began to slick his abdomen with her sweet nectar.


    "I lost my balance-"


    "Oh no, you totally felt my-"


    *Twack*


    "No interrupting." Agatha slapped his face with her paddle once more, and Ricky massaged his jaw in response.


    *Ahem*


    "I lost my balance, but it''s clear who the master is and who the slave is," Agatha said, tapping her paddle lightly on his head as he shook his head in defiance.


    "If you were the master, would you really need to tie me up and stop me from making you shake with pleasure?" Ricky asked as Agatha laughed at his clear provocation but didn''t back down.


    "I''m sure I don''t need to remind you that slaves are the ones who are bound and tied, while masters hold the paddles and whips," Agatha said, waving her paddle around and with a flick of her wrist, it briefly transformed into a whip, her eyes sparkling like crescent moons.


    "But I''ll let you suggest whatever you want, my little naive puppy." Agatha purred, a sly smile playing on her lips.


    "I''d be more than happy to accept your foolish challenge." Agatha teased, fully aware of what he desired since it was so obvious.


    "One round: whoever cums first loses, and no interruptions," Ricky proposed and Agatha rolled her eyes but maintained her arrogance.


    "Fine, but when you lose, you''ll be my dutiful little slave for the night," Agatha purred, fully aware that she was going to make him feel good in all the right ways.


    "And if I win-"


    *SLAP*


    Ricky clenched his teeth as Agatha lifted her hips before slamming them down onto his girthy cock, her ass clapping together with a fierce rhythm.


    "Oh honey, you''re not winning~" Agatha laughed, leaning down as she slowly rode Ricky, her tongue tracing a path up his chest.


    *Snap*


    Agatha snapped her fingers before Ricky could speak, reapplying the gag to his mouth as her pussy slowly strutted along his cock.


    "You have the perfect face, Ricky, and such a monster cock, but your mouth is a big problem, it never shuts up~" Agatha teased, licking her way down his chest until she reached his nipples, tenderly swirling her tongue while locking eyes with him.


    "But we''re going to fix you, I''m going to fix you~" Agatha hummed, her hands exploring his chest, fingertips gliding over his skin with deliberate slowness.


    Her hips swayed aggressively against him, each movement a calculated dance of power and desire, pushing Ricky to the brink of control.


    Agatha appeared unabashed, though her back glistened with sweat from taking his monstrous size in such a ferocious manner.


    Despite the intense pleasure gripping her insides, she refused to reveal how Ricky''s cock stirred her pussy to its core, even as waves of ecstasy spasmed through her.


    Holding back her moans in a fierce demeanor, Agatha''s pride refused to relent to Ricky, whom she viewed as nothing more than a novice.


    Agatha''s nails traced lightly down Ricky''s abdomen, leaving faint marks in their wake as she leaned in closer, her lips brushing against his ear.


    "I want to hear you beg for it, Ricky. Beg for what only I can give you," Agatha whispered lustfully before sitting up and tearing away the bindings of her sleek black leather, revealing her perfect breasts.


    Playing with her own perky breasts in a hot, supple manner, Agatha rolled her hips in slow, deliberate circles, each motion igniting a fresh wave of pleasure between them.


    "You like that, don''t you?" Agatha teased, her voice husky with need while proning his release further.


    "I know you crave it, crave me~" Agatha''s hips rocked against Ricky''s cock, reveling in the power she held over him and how he responded to her every touch and command.


    Before she knew it, her breath quickened as her arousal surged, her slick warmth enveloping him as her pussy began to release its dominant nectar, coating his throbbing shaft.


    However, Agatha''s focus remained unbroken even as she sensed her climax approaching though wasn''t afraid after seeing Ricky''s neck strain in veins as he too approached the brink.


    "Feel me~" Agatha urged, her voice husky with desire as she tilted her head back, getting caught up in her own words.


    "Feel how you belong to me~" Agatha continued, controlling the pace as she teased and tested his restraint with every subtle shift of her body.


    As her body bounced against his, her ass slapping against her thighs, Ricky''s cock lodged itself deeper into Agatha, slowly driving her into a frenzied state.


    *CLAP*


    *CLAP*


    *CLAP*


    Her beautiful ass clapped against itself before slapping down onto Ricky''s waist, her pussy clenching him tightly.


    Her hands grabbed her own breasts, squeezing even tighter as her teeth gnawed on her lip while her eyes slowly twitched upwards.


    "Feel it~" Agatha let out, the overbearing nature of it wilting into a soft moan.


    "Ha~" Agatha moaned fully as she lowered herself down, his tip kissing her womb so delicately that it made her body shiver.


    In that moment, Agatha forgot about the bet as her hips swayed back upward, revealing Ricky''s cock completely drenched by her insides before she brought herself back down.


    Agatha''s body began to swell with pleasure, the sensations slowly building as his cock captivated her curiosity for what it could bring.


    The heat coiled within her, an intoxicating blend of desire and urgency that coursed through her veins.


    With each thrust, Ricky''s cock pushed deeper, igniting a fire that spread from her core to the tips of her fingers.


    Agatha''s breaths came in quick bursts, each one more ragged than the last as she surrendered to the waves of ecstasy rolling over her.


    Agatha began to grow increasingly aggressive, a smile of ecstasy playing on her lips as she laughed, arching her back upward, feeling the delicious pressure build within her.


    "Yes, yes-" Agatha urged herself on, feeling that she was about to burst until her eyes suddenly shot open and shrunk.


    Just then, she hovered tantalizingly above the tip of his cock, fully prepared to bring him over the edge.


    However, the thought of the bet flickered in her mind, causing her eyes to shoot open in panic as she tried to pull herself away from his throbbing cock, but it was already too late.


    The bedsheets around his wrists suddenly burst into flames as he reached forward just as Agatha pushed herself upward.


    *CLAP*


    "AH~" Agatha let out a screeching moan, her head jerking down to the sight of her own pussy enveloping him completely as she flushed with pleasure.


    That overwhelming pleasure suddenly erupted from her as she gritted her teeth through the climax, his cock stirring deep within her insides.


    "I-I-"


    "Came? And you were such a bad girl~" Ricky finally spoke, straining to hold back as he hadn''t even climaxed yet.


    "N-No- "Agatha stuttered out, her once-overbearing demeanor slowly wilting under the realization of her own orgasm.


    "And what''s worse, I didn''t even finish." Ricky''s laugh resonated powerfully, his confidence soaring as he grabbed Agatha and flipped their positions with surprising strength.


    "H-Ha~" Agatha wanted to retort, but as Ricky''s hands traced along her body, amplifying the pleasure from her lingering orgasms, her words morphed into a soft, breathless moan.


    Ricky trailed his hands upwards until he pinned her down, leaning closer until his lips brushed against her ragged breath.


    "I''m going to have so much fun breaking you~" Ricky echoed her own words back to her, catching her lips before she could think to respond, then he slammed his cock deep inside her.


    *THUMP*


    The bedframe crashed against the wall as Agatha surrendered completely to Ricky''s thrust, taking in all of his cock without a hint of restraint as he immediately lodged itself deep within her, filling her womb entirely.


    However, Agatha couldn''t even let out a moan; her muffled words were overwhelmed by Ricky''s lips as her eyes fluttered upwards in bliss.


    The taste of his tongue, combined with the intensity of her pleasure amplifying, left her feeling limp and malleable, utterly consumed by Ricky''s skillful movements.


    *THUMP*


    *THUMP*


    *THUMP*


    The bedframe repeatedly slammed into the wall, resonating with the rhythm of Ricky''s relentless thrusts, as his cock plunged in and out of her continuously slick pussy.


    Each wave of pleasure surged higher than the last, overwhelming Agatha to the point where she could only surrender to another climax, her body completely under Ricky''s control.


    Words escaped her as ecstasy enveloped her, leaving her breathless and utterly at his mercy.


    While entirely enveloped in her warmth, Ricky felt his balls tighten as he quickened his pace, thrusting deeply into the intoxicating flood of her arousal.


    Each powerful movement drew him closer to the precipice of his own release, pushing him deeper into Agatha, who lay beneath him, surrendering to his every thrust.


    With a final, aggressive motion, he pulled back slightly, savoring the moment before plunging back in, ready to unleash the overwhelming pleasure that surged within him.


    *THUMP*


    The wall behind them cracked under the intensity of their union as Ricky''s cock erupted, filling Agatha''s pristine pink walls with a warm coat of thick, white cum.


    Each surge painted her insides, the warmth swirling within the depths of her womb, amplifying the pleasure that coursed through them both.


    Agatha''s body convulsed in waves of pleasure as her orgasm bloomed within Ricky''s hold.


    Her tongue ensnared by his, she felt utterly pinned down, her body surrendering to the overwhelming sensations coursing through her as the only reaction she could muster was the continuous spewing of her nectar.


    *GASP*


    "AH~" Agatha''s lips were finally freed from Ricky''s hold, and she gasped for breath, only to let out another moan as he released her hands.


    Agatha shivered against Ricky''s body, her eyes still glazed with desire as her hands wrapped around his back.


    Ricky simply smiled, delivering soft kisses along her collarbone and leaving small marks in their wake.


    "You''re an animal~" Agatha breathlessly whispered, her voice ragged as she lay strung out beneath Ricky, her body still trembling from the intensity of their encounter.


    "I thought I was a little puppy-"


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    "I take it back, you''re a rabid dog." Agatha huffed between breaths, her hand gently patting his cheek.


    Ricky''s fingers instinctively went to his face, clutching her hand firmly against his skin, holding it there as he gazed down at her, a sly smile tugging at his lips.


    "Then I guess it''s my victory. However, I''m a gentleman," Ricky laughed, sitting up before grabbing her thighs.


    With a swift motion, he flipped her over, keeping her perfectly skewered on his cock.


    Agatha let out a breathless gasp, her body adjusting to the shift, her back arching beneath him as Ricky leaned down, pressing his chest against her back while she remained on all fours.


    His breath was hot against her ear as his hands gripped her hips firmly, keeping her in place as he whispered,


    "So we''ll do it in your favorite position," Ricky''s husky voice whispered in her ear, sending a shiver down Agatha''s spine.


    His hands slid slowly up her curvy body, tracing every inch until they rested on her perky breasts, squeezing them gently as his hips shifted against her.


    She bit her lip, her body betraying her with every tremble as she adjusted to the rhythm he was setting, caught between his dominance and her own lingering pride.


    "Ha~" Agatha moaned out, her breath hitching as a wave of pleasure surged through her body.


    Ricky''s fingers squeezed her nipples just right, twisting them lightly, sending electric pulses that made her arch further into his touch.


    Every subtle movement amplified her sensitivity, her body betraying her desire as she melted under his control, unable to contain the soft gasps that escaped her lips.


    "Ah~" Agatha moaned louder, her body trembling as Ricky''s hips moved with deliberate slowness, each sway sending his cock deeper inside her.


    She could feel the heat of his molten cum still swirling within her womb, every thrust stoking the fire that burned between them.


    The sensation of him filling her so completely, coupled with the simmering pressure, had her teetering on the edge once more.


    "You have the perfect face, Agatha, and such a tight pussy, but your mouth is a big problem, it never shuts up~" Ricky teased her further, his lips brushing against her ear as her soft, subtle moans filled the air.


    He trailed gentle kisses from her earlobe down to her shoulder, each kiss making her body shudder in response.


    Slowly, he released his grip on one of her breasts, his hand sliding up to tilt her chin toward him


    "But we''re going to fix you, I''m going to fix you~" Ricky repeated the words from earlier, his tone soft yet teasing as Agatha''s body reacted instinctively, her eyes fluttering closed as she recognized the familiar taunt.


    "You''re really funny-AH!" Agatha was poised to deliver a snide remark, but before she could speak, Ricky thrust his hips deep into her, sending shockwaves of pleasure through her body.


    She arched up instinctively, her breath hitching as the sensation overwhelmed her while Ricky kept his mouth still hovered on her ear.


    "Now, Agatha, good girls get treats, but bad girls-....well, they get punished." Ricky continued to echo her words, his voice low and teasing, as he thrust her head into the sheets.


    With each powerful movement, he reached for the nearby sheets, his intention clear as he bound her wrists, ensuring she was firmly anchored in place before grabbing the nearby paddle lying all by itself to the side.


    "W-Wait-"


    *TWACK*


    "Ah~" Agatha betrayed herself with a soft moan, the sound escaping her lips despite her attempts to hold back.


    One hand firmly held her head down onto the bed while amplifying the pleasure while the other swung the paddle.


    "Did you just moan?" Ricky curiously asked, lightly tapping the paddle against her reddened cheek as Agatha shot him a horrified side-eye, her expression a mix of shock and disbelief at her own moan.


    "N-No, I would never-"


    "But, I never gave you permission to feel that way. Isn''t that unfair?" Ricky sleazy smile raised alongside the paddle.


    *TWACK*


    "AH~"


    *TWACK*


    "AH~"


    *TWACK*


    "AH~"


    Each swing of the paddle against her slowly reddening ass sent ripples of ecstasy coursing through her, intertwining pain and pleasure in a tantalizing dance that left her breathless and yearning for more.


    The sharp stings ignited a fire within her, heightening her senses and drawing her deeper into the intoxicating mix of sensations that enveloped her.


    With every impact, she felt herself slipping further into a state of bliss, craving the delicate balance of dominance and surrender that defined their encounter.


    "You''re such a bad girl~" Ricky hummed, restarting his thrusts as their hips collided fiercely, the gentle nature of their rhythm replaced by a fiercer approach.


    "Ah-"


    Just as his cock was fully submerged inside her, eliciting a moan from her lips, he brought the paddle down with a swift motion.


    *TWACK*


    "AH!" Agatha screeched out a moan, her eyes rolling back in bliss as an overwhelming wave of pleasure jolted through her.


    The combination of Ricky''s relentless thrusts and the sting of the paddle sent her spiraling into a state of euphoric abandon, leaving her gasping for breath and craving more.


    Even the sharp impact of her ass being slapped echoing in the room amplified the pleasure coursing through Agatha, her body shivering desperately for more and deepening the intoxicating blend of sensations that enveloped them both.


    Their dynamic shifted dramatically, Agatha becoming a ragdoll in Ricky''s grasp as he treated her like nothing more than a plaything.


    All she could do was respond with fervent moans, her body yielding to his every desire.


    "AH~" Agatha let out a muffled moan, her head pinned to the bed as she suddenly erupted in a wave of climax, spraying her release onto Ricky.


    He simply grinned, using her slickness as lubricant to thrust even deeper, pushing the boundaries as his cock started stretching her womb.


    *THUMP*


    "AH~"


    *THUMP*


    "AH~"


    *THUMP*


    "AH~"


    Ricky slammed his hips into Agatha with relentless force, her body a limp rag doll beneath him while only letting out sloppy moans, completely consumed by the overwhelming pleasure he was inflicting.


    The slick nectar oozed from her folds, a glistening testament to their wild encounter, pooling around them in a sticky mess.


    With each thrust, the sounds of their bodies colliding filled the room, a wet, and sloppy symphony.


    As he leaned closer, he could feel the heat radiating from her body, the scent of their mingled arousal thick in the air.


    The paddle was discarded, forgotten, as he fought to maintain her perfect arch, his hands gripping her hips with possessive intensity.


    He could sense the pressure building within him, his balls tightening as he neared the edge.


    With a final, brutal thrust, Ricky erupted, his cock spewing thick, hot cum deep into her womb.


    Agatha''s body responded with a shuddering gasp, her stomach inflating like a balloon as he filled her completely.


    The mixture of his release and her own juices dripped down, creating a slick, chaotic mess between them.


    "AH!" Agatha finally let out a desperate cry, her climax crashing over her in waves, leaving her breathless and vulnerable beneath his overpowering presence.


    That eruption of heat washed over her psyche like a tidal wave, engulfing Agatha in a deluge of overwhelming sensations.


    The brutal climax surged through her, crashing against her consciousness with such intensity that it felt like a shattering revelation of her own body''s capabilities.


    Each pulse of Ricky''s release filled her, a primal introduction to motherhood that left her gasping and breathless.


    In that moment, her mind spiraled into blissful oblivion, the world around her fading as her senses drowned in the ecstasy of their union.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    Even in her unconscious state, Agatha let out soft, huffed pants, her body twitching with lingering sensations as Ricky slowly pulled out.


    His release erupted from her worn, glistening folds, a warm cascade that pooled beneath her, marking the aftermath of their fervent encounter.


    Wiping the sweat from his forehead, Ricky gazed down at his handiwork, a mix of pride and satisfaction flooding his chest.


    He marveled at the sight of her, sprawled and blissfully vulnerable, the remnants of their passion glistening against her skin.


    With tender care, he pulled the unconscious Agatha into his embrace, cradling her against him.


    Her warmth seeped into him, and for a fleeting moment, he actually felt slightly relived to not sleep alone as he hugged his arms around her as her breathing slowly calmed down at the action.


    Her head rested softly against his sweaty chest, the rhythmic rise and fall of her breathing lulling Ricky into a sense of peace.


    As he felt her warmth seep into him, his eyes slowly drifted closed, savoring the intimate moment.


    Each gentle inhale of her breath filled him with a serene comfort, and as he succumbed to the embrace of sleep, a single thought flickered in his mind


    ''Thank you, God, for this dommy mommy.''


    Author''s Note: Tried something new with this one so tell me if I hit the mark or missed it and other things you''d like to see in smut.

 Chapter 78 - 77: A Goal Towards Growth

    Chapter 78: Chapter 77: A Goal Towards Growth


    Next Morning,


    In a throne room, the interiors decorated with the most serene features one could ever see, still managed to take a back seat to a glorious golden throne.


    On this throne sat Morgan leaning on her hand, gazing at Ricky standing on the luxurious floor beneath their feet.


    "Oh for f*cks sake!" Ricky yelled, seeing this god forsaken hall once again along with the beautiful woman perched on the golden throne.


    By now, reliving this dream felt like torture, as Ricky was always forced to watch the scene unfold however, this time, when he glanced around for Percival, he realized something.


    Instead of Percival, Ricky saw that only he and the beautiful woman seated on the throne were present in the grand hall.


    As he touched the surroundings, patting the objects around him and realizing his hands didn''t phase through them, a lecherous smile crept across his face.


    "Finally, I''m lucid for once." Ricky, thinking this was a dream, popped his collar as he walked toward the woman he had dreamt of countless times but could never touch, always finding her seated and just out of reach.


    "Man, I swear, every time I had this dream, I always begged to be able to cup those balloons strapped to your chest-"


    *BOOM*


    *BAM*


    A mere second later, Ricky was thrown into the wall, his eyes widening as the pain he felt within his own dreamscape was all too real.


    "So this is the new Black Knight, almost a spitting image of Percival." Morgan raised a brow, observing his pervy behavior as, even when his eyes fluttered open, they immediately landed back on her chest.


    "Ow~" Ricky slowly slid down the wall until his butt hit the floor, still gazing at Morgan''s chest, who rolled her eyes at him.


    "It seems you didn''t inherit Percival''s chivalry, but that doesn''t matter." Morgan smirked, rising from her throne and slowly swaying toward him.


    "What matters is that sword of yours." Morgan''s eyes flashed green as she gazed at Ricky, who responded with a smile.


    "Baby, if you wanted to play with my sword all you had to do was-" Ricky immediately took her offer as a suggestion for something else, only to be interrupted by a sharp glare.


    "Listen to me young Black Knight" Morgan suddenly offered her hand, which glowed with a green light.


    "Swear loyalty to me and serve your rightful queen, or die by my hands." Morgan''s eyes dared him, and Ricky couldn''t help but raise the corners of his lips into a smile.


    "How exactly would I serve you, like in your chambers-" Ricky genuinely asked, only for his words to be interrupted once again.


    "ENOUGH!" Percival appeared, ripping apart the dreamscape, as Morgan clicked her tongue and shot a glare down at Ricky.


    "Brace yourself young Black Knight, for we shall meet again."


    [Mission Received: Agatha Harkness.]


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: S


    Description: Agatha is a witch that governs over one of the most powerful witch covens in the world and has been around America since Salem. However, although Agatha is a woman of immense magical prowess and strength within her community, at times she becomes overwhelmed with stress and looks for ways to relieve it.


    Objective: Help Agatha relieve her stress and give her a gift with it


    Reward: 100,000


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once:


    Choose: 150 Gacha or Agatha''s Magical Powers


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: 150 Gacha or Agatha''s Proficiencies in Magic


    Additional Missions:


    Sleep with her within your first encounter with Agatha(Complete):


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Impregnate Agatha within her coven(Incomplete):


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Completely mind f*ck the witch who is known for her arts in mind control(Complete):


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    Turn the tables on her sadistic tendencies during any of your encounters.


    Reward: 50,000 IP


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    Overwhelm Agatha while she was in control(Complete):


    Reward: Epic Armor Coupon


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    *GASP*


    "What the-" Ricky gasped awake, sitting up only to see Agatha putting on her clothes from the side.


    "You were under a spell, do you need some time to recover?" Agatha asked as she put on her leggings, having witnessed Percival rip apart Ricky''s dream right in front of him.


    "Yeah, give me a minute." Ricky held up a hand, rubbing his head as he regained his composure.


    ''First, open the coupons.''


    *Ding*


    Received:


    (Epic Armor) Lightbringer Shinguards: A radiant set of armor that glows with holy light. It is designed for Paladins and enhances their healing abilities, making them formidable support characters in the heat of battle.


    - Effects: Increases any healing magic and or holy magic used when equipped.


    (Legendary Skill) Ethereal Chains: The ability to create mystical chains that can bind or restrain targets. These chains could be unbreakable or possess other mystical properties though that is only up to the power embedded into these chains by the user.


    (Legendary Skill) Ethereal Sanctuary: The ability to create a protective sanctuary that shields allies from harm. This sanctuary might be invisible or take on a specific form, providing a safe haven in the midst of battle.


    Condition: Only the user''s alley are able to take refuge in this Sanctuary and in doing so, are completely protected for up to an hour


    Condition Two: The user is only able to use this skill once per day


    ''Alright, I guess I chose Agatha''s magical powers.'' Ricky thought about how this was only the second time he had ever picked powers over gacha, the morning sun shining down on his face.


    *Ding*


    Received Powers:


    +25 Mana


    (Innate) Witchcraft Energy: The ability to use the powers and energies related to witchcraft.


    (Innate) Soul Manipulation: the supernatural power to interact with and control the intangible essence of a person''s soul. Users of this ability can perform actions such as extracting, transferring, enhancing, or damaging souls, often possessing a profound understanding of the spiritual aspects that define an individual''s identity.


    (Innate) Magical Awareness: The user is able to sense magic and to be aware of anything that affects her and her surroundings.


    (Innate) Mystic Resistance: The user has an innate resistance against the mystic arts due to their witchcraft magical prowess.


    (Innate) Witch Sight: The user can see things beyond what normal humans can such as the aimless ones.


    (Innate) Voice Manipulation: The user now has the ability to manipulate voices to sound like others.


    Ricky gritted his teeth as he let out a deep breath as it felt as if his heart was expanding and confessing as Agatha''s eyes snapped open.


    ''What is my status now?''


    [Status]


    Name: Ricky Luciano


    Titles: Deadbeat, Royal Thug, Prodigal Son, Witch''s Gigolo


    Age: 15


    Born: October, 27, 1918


    Race: Human


    Strength: 34 (Lower realm of Superhuman strength)


    Stamina: 30 (Lower realm of Superhuman.)


    Vitality: 36 (Lower realm of Superhuman.)


    Agility: 28(Above peak adult male)


    Dexterity: 32(Lower realm of Superhuman strength)


    Intelligence: 7 (You''ve grown but that doesn''t mean your not an Idiot)


    Mana: 30¡ú55 (Middle realm of Superhuman.)


    Charm: 31 (Your charm is at the peak of humanity and at the cusp of superhuman)


    Appearance: 32 (A superhuman appearance that transcends humans.)


    ''Wait, I''m a Gigolo-''


    "You." Agatha lunged toward him, her curiosity overshadowed by something deeper as her hands grasped his chin and turned his face toward her.


    Her eyes glowed purple while Ricky smiled, captivated by her bouncing, perky breasts.


    "Me." Ricky caressed her hips, momentarily forgetting about his problems in the heat of his lust.


    However, as Ricky played with her body, Agatha was completely oblivious, her eyes confirming something that should have been impossible.


    "So, we''re not going to talk about how you''re a witchkin now?" Agatha spoke up, squinting as she positioned herself on top of Ricky to catch his full attention.


    "Can we have a little fun first?" Ricky asked until Agatha rested her hand on the shaft of his cock and squeezed tightly.


    "Darling, putting aside how such a high-tier dream spell was cast on you, I need to know how you became a warlock." Agatha squeezed, and not in a good way, causing Ricky to clench his teeth while raising his hands in surrender.


    "Something just awoke within me after we did the dirty, I swear," Ricky said, sort of lying, as Agatha''s eyes lit up in purple, only to become even more confused.


    "How are you telling the truth-"


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    "Uh Slick, we have a problem." Chores knocked on the outside of his door, prompting Ricky to frown.


    "Can it wait?" Ricky asked, considering there was a busty beauty literally grabbing his cock while perched on top of him.


    "Abraham''s gone." Chores'' voice came through the door as Ricky let out an aggrieved sigh.


    "Give me 20-no, 30 minutes." Ricky started to speak, intending to say twenty, but Agatha pointed her thumb up, interrupting him.


    "Whatever." Chores let out an aggrieved sigh before walking away.


    Agatha raised an eyebrow at this but then pressed the tip of his member against her pussy lips, kissing the tip of his cock before sliding down onto it.


    "Ah~"


    30 minutes later,


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    Ricky was huffing out breaths of air as Agatha let out a refreshed sigh, lightly patting his chest after literally draining him dry for the last thirty minutes.


    "So, how do you know Abraham?" Agatha finally asked, walking off the bed and grabbing a tissue to wipe away the oncoming flood.


    After she finished, she snapped her fingers, and a black dress materialized around her.


    "He was supposed to teach me magic, but now that I''ve got a busty witch, I think I''ll be just fine." Ricky flashed a toothy smile, only to watch her cackle with laughter at how ridiculous his words sounded.


    "Darling, back in the day, Abraham was the strongest mortal magic core user and was said to be at the pinnacle of his craft," Agatha suddenly revealed, surprising Ricky since to him he looked nothing more than a homeless bum.


    "He was that strong?" Ricky asked as Agatha tossed his pants at him while nodding.


    "Not only that, but even some deities within the magic realm feared his potential." Agatha said, then sat on the edge of the bed.


    "I can teach you everything you need to know about witchcraft, but compared to Abraham, even as the most powerful witch, I''m severely lacking." Agatha explained, considering how she would feel if she were in his position.


    "What happened to him, he can''t even-"


    "No one knows." Agatha let out a small sigh and shrugged, leaning back while looking up at the ceiling.


    "One day, the Van Heislings were finally on the verge of slaying Dracula, and the next, Abraham became the last of his kin," Agatha said, recalling the day Abraham turned into a hollow shell of his former self, as the Van Heilslings didn''t hide the fact that Dracula had been plaguing them for centuries.


    "The next time I saw Abraham, he was but a mere hollow shell of his former." Agatha side-eyed Ricky, speaking highly of Abraham and looking a little disappointed that Ricky didn''t share her views.


    "There are many theories but the only thing that is confirmed is that Abraham had his heart and core ripped out by Dracula who now uses it as a conduit." Agatha finished her explanation of everything she knew, then stood up as a purple portal appeared.


    "Here." Agatha flashed a small smile and threw a purple necklace at him.


    "Whenever you want to learn about your fellow witches and warlocks, imbue your innate magic into it until it breaks." Agatha waved, swaying her hips in a way that made Ricky''s eyes follow her from side to side.


    "What if I want to use it for a good time?" Ricky asked, only to see Agatha pause at the helm of the gates.


    "I''ll find you, darling," Agatha winked at him, her small smile turning lustful before stepping into the portal.


    Ricky bit his knuckle, his eyes glued to the beautiful curve of her ass as he shook his head.


    "God, the women here are so goddamn hot," Ricky thought, shaking his head as he put on his clothes and walked out of the room, the orb still pointing in a random direction.


    ''It''s unfortunate but you won''t be able to run Abraham.''


    3 hours later,


    Meanwhile in the city of Aprilia Italy,


    Abraham stood on a train car, looking out the window while rubbing his eyes as he had left the tavern after sleeping for five hours and had spent the rest of the time on the train.


    "Sorry kid, but you''re better off with that witch-" Abraham let out a light sigh, gazing out at the beautiful scenery.


    "I don''t know about that; she said you were the best, after all." Ricky spoke from the side, causing Abraham to freeze and slowly turn his head, revealing a horrified expression.


    "Hello," Barko said as he hopped into the seat next to Abraham before moving around.


    "Hello, Abraham." Chores nodded, following Ricky as he sat in the aisle seat to block any chance of escape while Ricky took the seat in front of him.


    "So, where are we headed?" Ricky asked curiously, pulling the ticket out of his shirt pocket.


    "Young Ricky seems to be in a state of distress." Alexander noted, and Ricky nodded as Percival floated above them.


    "Ah, Aprilla, I''ve had many battles here." Percival recollected, with Alexander nodding in agreement.


    "H-How did you-"


    "I have my ways, Abraham." Ricky chuckled as Henry landed on Abraham''s head and tilted his head.


    Abraham wore an ugly expression, feeling like Ricky was a flea he couldn''t swat away no matter how hard he tried.


    "I''m not teaching you-"


    "Yes, you are." Ricky quickly corrected himself just as Alexander delivered a swift hit to his neck as if trying to kill a fly swarming at his neck.


    "You want another teacher already? What about us?" Alexander asked in frustration, and Percival didn''t need to speak to understand his words.


    "You shouldn''t be so hasty about learning so much at once," Percival said as Ricky merely shrugged though Abraham thumped his head against the chair in exasperation.


    "Why do you even want me to teach you magic when I can''t even use it?" Abraham questioned, playing his last card, but Ricky wasn''t buying it.


    "I already know you had magic before it was ripped away by Dracula," Ricky said, watching as Abraham''s eyes dropped in sadness.


    "I-"


    *SIGH*


    "Fine, you want the truth, kid? The real truth?" Abraham said, looking up at Ricky, whose expression read ''finally.''


    "Yes, I mean it feels like you''ve been keeping this story all to yourself, and I''m curious as to why. From what Agatha said about you, at one point, you were able to kill Dracula, and then the next, you lost." Ricky pressed, watching as Abraham covered his mouth while rubbing his prickly beard before turning his gaze back to him.


    "I always see that day whenever I close my eyes." Abraham whispered, shutting his eyes as the images replayed on his eyelids like a projector.


    "On that day, I was sure I would free the Van Helsing name, and everyone who shared my curse believed it too." Abraham said, his gaze distant as the image of over thirty people huddled before a mysterious castle flickered in his mind''s eye.


    "We stormed Dracula''s castle, and although some of us fell, we outnumbered him ten to one," Abraham''s voice trembled, recalling the next scene with a haunting clarity.


    "In our last battle, I destroyed his magic core, forcing him into a corner. I thought-....I thought that if I kept pushing, we''d finally be free." Abraham said, his voice heavy with regret, as the next scene unfolded, threatening to bring tears to his eyes.


    "We should''ve known that Dracula wouldn''t play by our rules. When he retreated towards his throne room we arrived soon after to the sight of all of our loved ones already there, chained and bound." Abraham continued, the smile on Ricky''s face fading completely.


    "Before the battle even started, as we were breaching the gates, Dracula discovered where we were hiding the non-combatants and kidnapped the ones he hadn''t already killed." Abraham said, his words heavy with sorrow. His hands trembled as the haunting images flashed in his mind, each one more vivid than the last.


    "Then he shattered our morale by transforming them into ghouls before our very eyes. My cousins rushed to save them, only to fall into his trap." Abraham''s voice trembled with anguish, and Ricky felt a jolt of realization strike him like a thunderclap.


    "Corpse-"


    "Corpse explosion, the only members still alive were my son and daughter-in-law," Abraham said, his voice breaking as tears streamed down his cheeks.


    The weight of his words hung heavily in the air, a painful testament to the loss that haunted him.


    "My whole life, I always thought about the greater good. It was all I ever preached," Abraham said, his voice trembling as he raised his shirt to reveal the jagged scar etched across his chest.


    "But when I saw the last of my family blown to bits and my son bound before me, I cracked." Abraham uttered as the raw emotion in his voice shattered the fa?ade he had built, exposing the deep scars of his past.


    "I f*cking cracked." Abraham slightly broke down that stubborn facade, each word resonated with the weight of his shattered world, a haunting reminder of that fateful day.


    "It was stupid but I made a deal with Dracula, in return for giving my core that he would let my son go and-"


    "He didn''t follow through, did he?" Ricky ventured, his voice a soft whisper in the heavy silence that enveloped them.


    Abraham remained quiet, his gaze fixed downward, the weight of unshed memories pressing down on him.


    Tears streamed faster down his cheeks, each one a testament to the pain and loss that had haunted him for so long.


    "Not only did he break his promise, but he tortured them both to death right in front of me," Abraham said, his voice low and trembling with suppressed anger.


    "And just when I thought my misery would end, he ripped out my own son''s heart... and put it inside me." Abraham''s hand clenched tightly over the scarred skin above his heart, the pain of the memory still fresh in his mind.


    "He knew-....he knew that I wouldn''t be able to end it all if I had my son''s heart," Abraham muttered, his voice barely audible, as if the weight of the confession was crushing him.


    In that moment, he seemed like an entirely different person, broken and vulnerable.


    Ricky looked at him in silence, unable to muster even a hint of sarcasm or humor, the gravity of Abraham''s pain too overwhelming to mock.


    "That day, I lost everything. I went from the most powerful magic user to the most pathetic," Abraham admitted, his voice hollow as he took out his flask again, swallowing his sorrows with another long drink, the weight of his past pressing down on him.


    "I should''ve waited-...made sure my loved ones were safe before acting. I should''ve been stronger, but I was too eager and stupid," Abraham muttered, his voice cracking under the weight of regret.


    His broken facade slowly reformed into the familiar mask of the alcoholic, as he drowned himself in his flask, numbing the pain that gnawed at him relentlessly.


    "I''ll only end up failing you, kid. That''s what I do best," Abraham muttered, slumping in his seat, his eyes distant and heavy with self-loathing.


    Ricky frowned, watching the man who once seemed completely uncaring to anyone''s words crumble under the weight of his own.


    In that moment, Ricky saw a reflection of his future self in Abraham as the more he tried to deny it, the clearer the vision became, a haunting glimpse of what he could become if he never left New York.


    The weight of that realization pressed heavily on Ricky''s chest, the fear of reverting to who he once was frightening him more than the prospect of dying in that very moment.


    Change is hard, the hardest part being the constant struggle to keep moving forward, even when climbing the mountain seems impossible.


    Sometimes, you will stumble back down, but it is how you keep getting up and pushing toward the summit that defines who you are.


    A sudden, seemingly foolish thought bloomed in Ricky''s mind and yet, as ridiculous as it felt, he knew he couldn''t return to New York without proving to himself that he wouldn''t end up like Abraham.


    The fear of failure and self-destruction loomed, but he was determined to overcome it and with slight breath, he faced Abraham/


    "Help me hone my core magic, and I''ll help you kill Dracula," Ricky said, his voice firm and unwavering.


    For the first time in his life, Ricky was committing to an uncertainty he wasn''t sure he could overcome.


    But this time, he was willing to face the unknown, no matter the outcome.


    "And I''m supposed to believe that? How do I know you won''t just run off after I teach you everything, leaving me to face Dracula alone?" Abraham asked, his voice laced with skepticism.


    Ricky paused, thinking for a moment as the question was fair, and trust wasn''t something easily given, especially after what Abraham had been through.


    "Because I don''t want to wind up like you when I finally go back home," Ricky replied, his voice steady as Abraham frowned.


    Abraham''s situation felt eerily similar to his own, and the thought of becoming a reflection of that future, lost and broken, actually started to terrify him.


    It was a motivation as strong as any, pushing him to seek a different path, one that would force him to grow rather than take the easy route.


    Ricky knew that facing challenges head-on was the only way to avoid the fate that loomed over him like a shadow.


    Abraham looked at Ricky, feeling a deep-seated resentment for the young man who reminded him so painfully of what he once was before he lost it all.


    It was as if Ricky represented the life he had squandered, the potential that had slipped through his fingers.


    But in that bitterness lay a flicker of hope; if he could redeem Ricky, perhaps he could find a way to redeem himself as well as his heart steadied at the thought, grappling with the duality of his feelings.


    "Fine, but I still don''t trust you," Abraham said, holding out his hand as Ricky grabbed it firmly, a grin breaking across his face.


    "Me neither." Ricky laughed, officially gathering his third teacher, and with it, a chance to forge a new path.


    "Then let''s go hunt a vampire."


    3 months later,


    In the brisk of night, a cool breeze swept through the air, carrying with it the scent of damp earth and distant echoes of nocturnal life.


    "Are you sure about him?" Ricky asked, watching as Abraham nodded and slipped on a familiar cross-like necklace.


    Abraham had actually swiped this from Father Sebastian before his departure, unable to resist the allure of such a powerful artifact.


    "I don''t know, but we''ll find out," Abraham murmured, determination glinting in his eyes as he stood up, glancing back at Barko, who was still savoring his food.


    "Come on, Barko, you''re with me." Abraham led the way, striding purposefully toward the man seated across the way, a young girl sitting nearby.


    Barko quickly shifted gears, transforming into a playful, lovable dog as he bounded over to the girl, tail wagging and eyes sparkling with mischief.


    He playfully nudged her leg, eliciting a delighted laugh as she reached down to pet him.


    Meanwhile, Abraham leaned in closer to the man, his voice low and steady as the man fidgeted, unable to meet Abraham''s gaze, his eyes darting nervously around him.


    Over the past three months, Ricky had immersed himself in the intricate world of magic, steadily unraveling its mysteries.


    Each day had brought new lessons, each encounter deepening his understanding of spells, incantations, and the delicate balance that governed the arcane arts.


    Learning magic was an entirely different beast compared to practicing with the sword or bow; it compelled Ricky to confront his greatest challenge, his own mind.


    Magic demanded that he learn, understand, and strategize, placing his mental acuity at the forefront of every endeavor.


    This mental rigor not only expanded his knowledge but also catalyzed profound personal growth, pushing him beyond his previous limits and forcing him to transform into a more capable and introspective individual.


    Intelligence: 7¡ú12


    Ricky''s mind was finally beginning to flourish, each breakthrough in his magical studies contributing to a steady enhancement of his cognitive abilities.


    With every spell he mastered and every incantation he practiced, he felt a newfound clarity and sharpness taking root within him.


    All the while, he continued to hone his skills with the sword and bow. His swordsmanship had evolved from that of a common beginner to an uncommon level of proficiency, a significant leap in skill.


    Meanwhile, his archery had blossomed into a rare expertise, allowing him to hit targets with precision that few could match.


    Alexander and Percival were strikingly similar in their dedication to training Ricky, yet their approaches to combat were vastly different.


    Percival, a master swordsman, excelled in direct confrontations, his skills far surpassing Alexander within the realm of the sword.


    This expertise made him the natural choice for Ricky''s swordsmanship training.


    However, Percival''s method was not to impose his own style; rather, he aimed to help Ricky discover and cultivate his own unique fighting technique.


    In contrast, Alexander''s brilliance lay in his strategic mind, honed through years of leadership as a general.


    His teachings extended beyond mere weaponry and hand-to-hand combat; he focused on how to navigate the complexities of battle itself.


    Alexander imparted lessons on situational awareness, teaching Ricky how to respond effectively to various scenarios and claim victory against overwhelming odds.


    Through this comprehensive training, Ricky learned to maneuver with all the tools at his disposal, blending tactical insight with his growing martial skill.


    Amidst all this, Abraham''s approach to magic training emphasized the importance of integration rather than domination.


    He believed that magic should enhance Ricky''s fighting style, filling in the gaps of his other skills rather than overshadowing them.


    While Alexander and Percival concentrated on offensive capabilities, Abraham shifted Ricky''s magical focus toward defensive tactics and supportive spells.


    By honing Ricky''s ability to use magic for protection and assistance, Abraham aimed to create a well-rounded fighter.


    This perspective not only diversified Ricky''s combat strategies but also empowered him to adapt to various challenges, making him a more formidable opponent on the battlefield.


    Initially a poor learner, Ricky faced numerous challenges in his magical studies.


    However, with Abraham''s patient guidance and unwavering support, he gradually transformed into a competent practitioner.


    Not only did he become proficient in the basic uses of magic, but he also learned to control elemental forces.


    This newfound mastery culminated in the development of his skill: (Uncommon Skill) Elemental Control.


    "This isn''t going to work," Chores said, his expression disgruntled as he stood there dressed entirely as a mime, complete with white face paint and a black-and-white striped shirt as the absurdity of the situation weighed heavily on him.


    "I concur; this plan seems ludicrous," Percival added, hovering just above Ricky, his arms crossed in disapproval as his tone dripped with skepticism, clearly unamused by the unfolding antics.


    "No, don''t listen to them, young Ricky. This plan of yours is sound and will come to fruition," Alexander said, patting Ricky''s shoulder with an approving gaze as his encouragement bolstered Ricky''s confidence, igniting a spark of determination within him.


    "Hey, you were the one who drew the short straw, so stop complaining and don''t mess this up," Ricky retorted, a playful smirk dancing on his lips as he glanced at the brutish-looking Chores.


    With a resigned sigh, Chores stepped into the road, preparing to begin the peculiar performance that lay ahead.


    *Pffft*


    Ricky couldn''t contain his laughter as Chores began his mime act in the bustling square.


    The contrast between Chores'' imposing stature and his exaggerated, silent gestures was both absurd and captivating.


    As the hulking figure moved with unexpected grace, the curious onlookers started to gather, their faces lighting up with intrigue.


    "KILL!"


    "Arck." Ricky let out a grunt, a slight twinge of pain shooting through his skull as he pressed a hand against his head.


    The sword at his side vibrated ominously, responding to the disturbance as Percival, hovering above, frowned at the unsettling display, his concern palpable.


    "KILL!"


    "KILL!"


    "KILL-"


    "One more kill out of you, and I swear I won''t ever unsheathe you again," Ricky whispered hatefully to the sword residing in his mind.


    "....."


    Ricky glanced down at his troubled sword, which thirsted for blood with an insatiable hunger, like a father grappling with the bitter truth about the truth that his innocent daughter was nothing but a common whore.


    The ebony blade''s craving intensified with every life not taken and every drop of blood not spilled, a cruel consequence of its dark nature.


    Each moment he resisted its call felt like a weight pressing against his sanity, a reminder that failure to quench the blade''s thirst could send his psyche spiraling into chaos.


    With a flicker of resentment, Ricky glared at the sword as its relentless demands gnawed at him, twisting his thoughts and taunting his sense of control.


    Even when he wielded the sword, he felt like a puppet strung along by an insidious force, and the more he fought against it, the stronger its grip became.


    At the dead of night, the sword would suddenly lodge itself and vibrate in his hand, jolting him awake, and its persistent restlessness was starting to infuriate him.


    Each time it throbbed, Ricky could feel the blade''s insatiable hunger reverberating through his bones, almost begging him to kill and clench its thirst for blood.


    He couldn''t shake the curiosity about the enigmatic woman he had learned was Morgan le Fey, the half-sister of King Arthur.


    Yet, despite his pressing questions, Percival remained tight-lipped as the only response Ricky ever received was a cryptic promise: ''When it is time, I will tell you everything''.


    It was frustrating, but Ricky decided to leave it at that, knowing he had to focus on his training and the battles ahead, even as the mysteries of his past and the sword''s true nature loomed over him like a storm cloud.


    "We''ll kill some vampires, so calm down and be a good bloodthirsty sword," Ricky muttered, tapping the sword''s handle with a mix of irritation and resolve.


    He peeked across the bustling street, spotting Barko skillfully leading the seemingly hypnotized girl away, his charm working wonders.


    Meanwhile, he caught sight of Abraham, steadying his grip on the crossbow, his expression a blend of focus and determination.


    "TO ME, MY GHOULS!" The vampire screeched, a high-pitched wail that echoed through the night as it hurled Abraham to the other side, sending him crashing into a nearby fruit stall.


    Ripe oranges and apples tumbled to the ground, splattering juice across the cobblestones as the stall collapsed under the sudden impact.


    "Dammit!" Ricky rushed forward, unsheathing his sword with a swift motion, the blade gleaming ominously in the dim light.


    He could feel the weight of the moment pressing down on him as he prepared to face the vampire, whose eyes glinted with malevolence.


    With a feral snarl, the vampire leaped onto the roof of a nearby building, flames gathering beneath its feet as he rushed forward.


    ''Come on!'' Ricky cheered himself on, feeling his flying training improve as he was lifted into the air, the ledge drawing closer.


    "I DID IT-Ah~" Ricky cheered, but his triumph quickly turned to pain as he banged his knee against the ledge of the building, causing him to stumble forward.


    "YOUNG RICKY TO YOUR RIGHT!" Alexander yelled from his shirt pocket, his voice filled with concern as he saw Ricky clutching his knee.


    *CLING*


    Ricky instinctively swung his sword, his reflexes kicking in as Alexander let out a startled screech as the vampire turned its gaze toward them, a predatory glint flashing in its eyes.


    "It''s you!" The vampire''s grin widened as it took in Ricky''s black knight attire, its eyes glinting with a mix of amusement and hunger.


    "Have we met or something?" Ricky narrowed his eyes, curiosity mingling with defiance as the vampire attempted to push his claws further into him.


    The ebony blade, however, stood resolute, acting as the sole barrier against the attack as its dark sheen shimmered, absorbing the malicious intent of the vampire''s assault.


    "Dracula has put a bounty on your head." The vampire''s eyes glinted with greed as he surveyed Ricky, viewing him as nothing more than a prized bounty.


    "Oh yeah?" With a swift motion, Ricky kicked the vampire away, creating a momentary distance between them as he steadied himself, the ebony blade raised defensively before him.


    Ricky smirked, his bravado evident as he tossed the question out, feigning nonchalance.


    The vampire paused, a flicker of surprise crossing its face, momentarily taken aback by his words.


    "Thirty-five. How did you know about the reward? It''s only talked about in the vampiric circle." the vampire replied, a mix of surprise and suspicion in its voice.


    Ricky tilted his head, a smirk playing on his lips as he realized he had hit the nail on the head.


    "Huh, would you look at that?" Ricky mused, a mix of surprise and amusement flickering across his face.


    "Anyways, why are Dracula''s vampires in Germany?" Ricky asked, probing for the information that Abraham had been eager to uncover.


    The vampire''s expression shifted, the playful banter giving way to a more serious tone as it contemplated the question.


    "What does it matter? You-"


    *SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEE*


    The vampire was poised to unleash a snide remark, but before the words could escape his lips, Ricky engulfed himself in flames, a display of his pyrokinesis that sent the vampire screeching in agony.


    Desperate to escape the searing heat, the vampire attempted to retreat, only to collide with Ricky''s force field.


    "AHHHHHHHH!" The vampire let out a bone-chilling scream as Ricky, with a swift and precise motion, sliced through both of his legs in a single fell swoop.


    The once-menacing creature collapsed to the ground, writhing in agony, his severed limbs pooling crimson against the cobblestone.


    "Alright, you got two options." Ricky forcefully slammed his foot onto the vampire''s back, pinning him to the ground.


    He rested the bloodthirsty sword on his shoulder, a menacing grin spreading across his face as he surveyed the crippled vampire.


    "Either I can make your last moments filled with excruciating pain, or we can save all this trouble and I can send you off with one clean slash to the head." Ricky declared, his tone laced with a chilling calmness.


    The vampire''s eyes widened in fear as he bit his lip, weighing the grim options presented before him.


    "C-Can I-"


    "No, you have to make the decision right now." Ricky spoke, decisively stomping out any chance the vampire had to consider his options as Alexander shook his head from his shoulder.


    "Save yourself some trouble young Ricky, he won''t-"


    "I don''t know much, but all I know is that it''s called Weapons Plus!" The vampire blurted out, panic creeping into his voice.


    But before he could finish, a blood-curdling scream escaped his lips as Ricky plunged the sword into his heart, silencing him forever.


    The light faded from the vampire''s eyes, leaving only the darkness of the night to bear witness to the brutal conclusion.


    However, instead of meeting a quick end, the vampire''s eyes fluttered open to a calm eyed Ricky who stood over him, sword still poised and ready.


    "I TOLD YOU EVERYTHING I KNOW, YOU SAID-" The vampire screeched at Ricky, his voice dripping with hatred as he hurled insults and curses, Ricky, unfazed, merely shrugged.


    "Yeah, but this sword keeps rambling on about torture, blood, and killing, so I thought I''d pacify it here rather than later." Ricky remarked, his voice dripping with dark humor as he relentlessly stabbed the vampire beneath him, who screamed in agony.


    The night was filled with the sound of metal meeting rotten flesh, echoing through the rooftops.


    After three long minutes of torment, the vampire finally faded into obscurity, and Ricky felt a sense of satisfaction as the ebony blade quieted, its thirst temporarily sated.


    With a swift motion, he sheathed the sword and hopped off the building as Abraham, grumbling softly, massaged his old joints as he rose to his feet, the weariness of battle evident in his movements.


    "They''re involved in something called ''Weapons Plus,''" Ricky informed Abraham, who frowned in thought while rubbing his chin.


    "I haven''t heard of it, but good work," Abraham replied, nodding in approval and just then, Barko strolled over to them.


    "Should I tell Chores that he''s good to go?" Barko asked, glancing toward Chores, who was surrounded by a captivated crowd, fully immersed in his miming performance.


    "Nah, I saw him practicing for so long, so we should let him have his moment," Ricky replied with a grin, nudging Abraham playfully.


    Abraham chuckled, the tension from earlier melting away as they watched Chores revel in the spotlight, clearly enjoying the attention and the art of performance.


    2 hours later,


    "So I mimed for another two hours, and you already finished after five minutes!" Chores shouted, flinging his black beret onto the ground in frustration as they entered the dimly lit bar.


    "Whoa there, big guy, that''s not how a mime should act." Ricky teased, raising his hand to calm him down, while Barko turned away, trying to suppress his laughter.


    *Sigh*


    "I need a barrel to drown away this embarrassment," Chores sighed, shaking his head in exasperation as he strode past them, making a beeline for the bar and Barko trailed closely behind, sharing a knowing grin.


    "Your six," Alexander whispered, his voice barely audible as Ricky subtly shifted his gaze toward Abraham, who caught on without a word as Ricky straightened, taking a cautious step forward.


    "No need to be afraid, gentlemen. I''m only here to talk." The man said, his tone calm yet firm. The man in the corner of the bar, a shadowy figure cloaked in a dark coat, immediately sensed he''d been detected.


    He raised his hands in a gesture of peace, a smirk creeping onto his face as he assessed the room.


    Abraham and Ricky approached a booth where a man sat dressed in a fine suit, a fedora tilted low over the upper half of his face.


    As they took their seats, the man greeted them with a warm smile, lifting his head just enough to reveal a pair of piercing eyes glinting with mischief.


    "Kid, don''t listen to anything he says," Abraham warned, his scowl deepening as he glared at the devilishly sharp man across the table.


    The man, unfazed, shifted his attention to Ricky, a sly smile playing on his lips.


    "Now, now, don''t let him discourage you." The man said, his voice smooth and enticing.


    "I am-"


    "A piece of sh*t." Abraham finished the man''s words before he could, resulting in his eyebrow twitching with disdain.


    "I am-"


    "Known by many names, most commonly as a demon, Satan, but I prefer to go by Mephisto," Abraham rolled his eyes, his irritation palpable as he completed Mephisto''s self-introduction with a sarcastic flourish


    "Never heard of you," Ricky remarked coolly, leaning back in his seat, the polished black armor of the Black Knight glinting faintly in the dim light of the bar.


    "Then I''ve done a splendid job." Mephisto replied, his voice smooth and enticing.


    "Since in my line of work, we tend to hide in the shadows." Mephisto raised the edge of his smile, his eyes locking onto Ricky with an intensity that sent a shiver down the young knight''s spine.


    "I have information-"


    "We''re good." Abraham interjected, drawing Mephisto''s gaze away from Ricky and onto him.


    "Oh Abraham, do you think so little of me?"


    "Yes."


    Abraham took a swig from his flask, his disdain evident as he regarded the man before him, convinced that even the lowest scum had more integrity than this figure in front of him.


    "Listen, kid. He''s here because, in short, he wants your soul." Abraham warned, gesturing towards Mephisto, who raised his hands in mock surrender.


    "Guilty as charged; I do want both of your souls," Mephisto admitted, uncaring in his shamelessness for their souls to belong to him for eternity.


    "However, I''m willing to part with valuable information for a worthy price, items of significance." Mephisto gestured towards the two, while Abraham frowned, rummaging through his coat, and Ricky began scanning his inventory for anything of worth.


    Ricky, glancing at the trinkets in his inventory, hesitated before pulling out a particular item he hadn''t used before.


    A blue pendant glimmered in the dim light of the bar, its intricate design catching the eyes of both Abraham and Mephisto.


    "May I inquire as to what that object is?" Mephisto asked, a spark of curiosity lighting up his eyes.


    Despite its appearance as a simple pendant, he could sense the intricate carvings held secrets of a civilization he had yet to encounter.


    "It''s a pendant that contains the knowledge of the ancient civilization known as Cortaj," Ricky replied, waving it in the air.


    Mephisto''s eyes gleamed with greed, the allure of untapped wisdom igniting a hunger within him.


    "That will suffice-"


    "Only for some information." Ricky pulled the pendant back, a cautious glint in his eyes, causing Mephisto to frown.


    The demon narrowed his gaze, suspicion flickering across his face as he assessed the young warrior''s hesitation.


    "Then what do you think is adequate?" Mephisto gestured, his voice smooth yet tinged with impatience as Ricky paused, contemplating his next move carefully.


    "By the way, Percival," Mephisto continued, shifting his attention to the spectral knight hovering nearby.


    "How is your descendant faring as the new Black Knight?" Mephisto surprised Ricky by acknowledging the presence of the ghost of the first Black Knight, a feat few could manage.


    Percival, however, responded with a scowl, clearly unimpressed by the demon''s casual tone.


    "Do not be intimidated; he does not know of your identity," Percival interjected, preemptively crushing any bridge that might form between them as Ricky tilted his head in confusion, sensing the underlying tension.


    "Do you two know each other?" Ricky asked, his curiosity piqued. Mephisto''s grin widened, a flicker of amusement dancing in his eyes as he leaned back, clearly enjoying the unfolding drama.


    "Of course I know Percival, we''ve made many deals back in the day." Mephisto politely smiled as Ricky looked up at Percival who sighed.


    "Even I have made a deal with Mephisto." Alexander popped out of Ricky''s shirt pocket, and Mephisto''s eyes widened as he gazed at the gerbil before immediately recognizing him.


    "Alexander!" Mephisto exclaimed, a look of genuine surprise crossing his face as he stood up and tugged the small creature off Ricky''s shoulder.


    "I thought you''d be in Hades'' underworld! How did you end up inside the body of a gerbil?" Mephisto''s shock was palpable, his brows raised in disbelief.


    "It''s all thanks to my young prote?ge? that I ended up in this situation," Alexander explained, a hint of disdain in his voice.


    "But I''ve learned to adapt and make the most of my circumstances." Alexander swatted Mephisto''s stretched finger, who was utterly amazed by the unexpected turn of events.


    The demon''s eyes glimmered with curiosity and intrigue, captivated by the thought of a legendary figure now embodied in such an unassuming form.


    "It''s been nearly 1,700 years since we forged that deal, hasn''t it?" Mephisto asked, his tone a mix of nostalgia and amusement as Alexander pondered the question, his mind drifting through the corridors of time.


    "Yes, I suppose so." Alexander finally replied, a hint of weariness in his voice and with a graceful leap, he hopped off Ricky''s shoulder and settled into the comfort of Ricky''s shirt pocket.


    "I must say, young man, you are quite the intriguing fellow." Mephisto remarked, his eyes gleaming with a sinister red light.


    "If only we had met under different circumstances, say, without that damned armor, then I might truly know who you are beneath the fa?ade." Mephisto''s smile widened though he was clearly annoyed while Ricky thoughtfully rubbed his chin.


    "Alright first tell me about this weapons plus-"


    "That is not how I operate; the terms of the deal must be clearly laid out before I offer any of my knowledge," Mephisto said, shaking his finger playfully as a shimmering contract began to materialize beside him.


    The parchment glimmered with an otherworldly light, and the words seemed to writhe as they awaited Ricky''s decision.


    "Fine, then," Ricky replied, his tone firm and unmovable while trying to hold a conversation with one of the oldest demons.


    "I want to know about Weapons Plus and what it is, why everyone attacked the Vatican that night, and who is after me." Ricky outlined all his demands, but Mephisto erupted into a cackling laugh, his amusement filling the air..


    "That is completely-"


    "Then I guess we''re done forming a deal." Ricky spoke as he returned the lorestone pendant to his inventory, realizing it was entirely useless to him after he had worn it the first time.


    ''A man by the name Fyuuuti, a commoner born, used to be notorious back in his day for stealing purple panties.''


    The lorestone pendant was indeed a fascinating artifact, but Ricky found himself frustrated by its chaotic nature.


    Rather than offering coherent insights, it delivered a jumbled message every minute, each one seemingly random.


    Containing the entirety of Cortaj''s history, the pendant felt more like a torrent of information than a source of clarity, leaving Ricky sifting through the noise for something of value.


    "Wait." Mephisto raised his hand, his expression shifting to one of contemplation as he weighed the implications of the deal.


    "Fine, but I''ll only tell you five names, not all of them," Mephisto replied, a mischievous smile curling at the corners of his lips.


    "Five names that hold equal weight to Abraham, and you''ve got a deal," Ricky countered, pointing firmly at Abraham.


    Without missing a beat, Mephisto snatched the pendant from Ricky''s grasp, his eyes glinting with a mix of greed and delight.


    "Weapon''s Plus is a program that Nazis are using to create powered individuals. However, the vampires are leveraging it to rid themselves of their weaknesses." Mephisto explained, his tone laced with a sinister glee as Abraham''s expression darkened, reflecting the gravity of the revelation.


    "They attacked that night to eliminate the source of the disruption in the field of magic. Once they realized it was you, their intent shifted. They would have likely aimed to kill you and steal your core." Mephisto added, a predatory smile playing on his lips as Ricky''s brow furrowed in concern.


    "And the five individuals who have taken an interest in that, people who are equal to or even above Abraham in power, are Selene, Dracula, Morgan Le Fey, Agatha, and me," Mephisto continued, leaving the implications of each name hanging in the air. Abraham''s eyes widened in shock, the weight of Mephisto''s words sinking in like lead.


    "Selene, the Selene?" Abraham''s voice quivered slightly at the mention of her name, his complexion paling as dread seeped into his expression.


    "Indeed." Mephisto confirmed, standing up from the booth with an air of nonchalance. He began to walk toward the door, his posture relaxed yet purposeful.


    "It''s always a pleasure, Abraham. And for you, young Black Knight." Mephisto glanced back at Ricky with a knowing smile.


    "I''ll see you around, if you survive, that is." Mephisto left them with his laughter that echoed in the dim bar as he strolled out, leaving behind a heavy silence.


    "Who''s-" Ricky turned towards the pale Abraham, gripping his face with a firm yet concerned hold.


    "You''re f*cked."


    Author''s Note: Long Chapter cause school''s restarting and my upload schedule will change from Mon-Fri to Thurs-Sunday and that means 4 Chapters a week. I also kinda want a break so I''ll see you all next thrusday.

 Chapter 79 - 78: Confrontation Over Weapons Plus

    Chapter 79: Chapter 78: Confrontation Over Weapons Plus


    Author''s Note: For those who were lost in the sauce and didn''t read the last author''s note, I changed my upload schedule to thursday-sunday.


    "..." Ricky stood in silence for a long moment, watching as Abraham slumped deeper into the booth and one question weighed heavily on his mind, echoing in the stillness around them.


    "Is she at least hot?" Ricky leaned in, his eyes dead serious as they locked onto Abraham.


    He crossed his arms in front of his face, his expression unreadable, yet the question lingered with an odd gravity, cutting through the tension.


    "Smoking."


    "Oh, alright then." Ricky shrugged, figuring that if people were out to kill him, at least he could take some comfort in the fact that they might be a hot, busty babe.


    "Selene is the strongest magical being and she''s a mutant on top of that." Abraham said, shaking his head with a slightly aggrieved tone.


    "Even the gods keep their distance after what she did to Apollo." Abraham informed Ricky, rubbing his arm as goosebumps crept up, the mere memory sending a chill through him.


    "At best, she''ll recruit you into her weird club; at worst, she''ll kill you." Abraham''s voice wavered slightly, betraying just how unnerving the tale of Selene truly was.


    "Well, putting that aside, what do we do now? With everything going on, what''s our next move?" Ricky asked, scratching his chin in slight curiosity as Abraham leaned back, downing the rest of his flask before letting out a heavy sigh.


    "We wait." Abraham screwed the lid back on, his tone foreboding as he pocketed the flask.


    "For what-"


    *BAM*


    "For that," Abraham muttered, pointing at the door just as it burst open, revealing a swarm of vampires slowly trickling in.


    "ABRAHAM!" A man in an expensive suit with slick, pointy black hair roared, his voice cutting through the almost desolate bar.


    Vampires filled the empty space with disdain, their gazes fixed on Abraham, who wore a confident smile in the face of their growing hostility.


    "Eliphas, it''s good to-"


    "SHUT YOUR MOUTH!" Eliphas screeched as his face contorted into a hideous visage, resembling a common vampire but far more grotesque.


    "Ugh, what the hell is that?" Ricky exclaimed, a look of disgust spreading across his face as he stared at Eliphas''s morphed features.


    "He''s a man cursed by Selene," Abraham whispered, glancing nervously at Eliphas, whose ears perked up at the mention of her name.


    "Jesus, what the hell did he do to deserve that?" Ricky wondered aloud, rubbing his face in disbelief as he focused on the foul creature before him.


    "If your filthy mouth ever mentions her glorious name in front of me again, I''ll rip out your throat myself." Eliphas growled, his tone icy as he stalked over to the booth.


    Ricky''s expression twisted into one of confusion and unease, caught between disbelief and the palpable threat emanating from the grotesque figure.


    "Wait, she made your face like that and you still actually like her-"


    *BAM*


    Eliphas lunged forward, ready to punch Ricky, but was suddenly halted by a psychic barrier that materialized between them.


    He looked down, scorn etched across his grotesque features, his vampiric form radiating anger as he glared at Ricky, his fury barely contained.


    "I love her; don''t confuse the two." Eliphas said, his voice dripping with intensity as Ricky burst into laughter, clearly bewildered.


    "What is so funny?" Eliphas tone was slow and menacing, recoiling backwards and squinting his eyes.


    "It''s just that, I wouldn''t even love my own mother if she gave birth to me and I looked like whatever the f*ck you are." Ricky gestured at Eliphas''s grotesque vampiric features, showing his immense hesitance to accept such a fate given to him.


    "Do you think you''re funny by belittling my appearance?" Eliphas asked, his tone icy and his gaze unwavering. He showed no sign of being perturbed by Ricky''s insults.


    "No, I think it makes me hilarious," Ricky shrugged, a grin still plastered on his face as Eliphas let out a hollow laugh, tinged with scorn, the sound echoing in the charged atmosphere.


    "In what world would anyone consider your words hilarious?" Eliphas placed his hands on the table, staring Ricky dead in the eye.


    "I guess one with your mother in it?" Ricky blurted out, knowing he could have come up with something better but deciding to roll with the dice he''d cast.


    "My mother is dead," Eliphas replied flatly, his tone devoid of emotion as he turned his attention back to Ricky.


    "Then I guess the underworld must be filled with laughter." Ricky countered smiling slightly since his own words made him crack a smile.


    Eliphas regarded him in silence for a long moment, his gaze intensely analyzing Ricky, seemingly ignoring Abraham entirely.


    The situation was growing increasingly tense, the air thick with unease. Chores began to move cautiously from the side, but four vampires quickly stepped in his way, squinting at them.


    "No one meets the boss of their own volition, especially mutts." The vampire sneered, casting a subtle insult towards Barko, whose ears slowly drooped in response.


    "He''s not a mutt; he''s a human. His name is Barko, and-" Chores interjected, annoyance creeping into his voice as he wasn''t in the best mood after spending two hours as a mime.


    "I don''t care." The vampire scoffed, shoving the giant slightly but Chores stood his ground, an immovable object despite the vampire''s bravado.


    "I didn''t finish; please do not interrupt me." Chores''s tone remained calm and polite, yet the gentle giant''s eyes flared with a smoldering anger fueled by years of abuse and frustration.


    His towering figure loomed over the vampire, strength radiating from him and although he typically preferred a peaceful approach, today, his mood had shifted toward the unreasonable.


    "You''ll regret any actions you take." The vampire warned, sensing the situation boiling toward a fight.


    His fellow kin slowly began to walk behind him, but Chores merely clenched his fist, the knuckles Ricky had given him standing out starkly.


    "Chores, it''s not worth it-" Barko started, trying to defuse the tension.


    "Oh, come on, Barko, if you let people treat you like a dog, then that''s all you''ll ever be!" Ricky chimed in, fueling the flames from the sidelines as he was growing bored with how Eliphas kept staring at him without uttering a word.


    "Apologize." Chores uttered this hateful word towards the vampire who merely laughed at his statement, potining his burly chest.


    "Or what, huh?" The vampire sneered, seeing Chores as nothing more than a large meat bag. In his mind, vampires were the pinnacle of existence.


    This perspective was common among most vampires; as they fed on humanity and other creatures, they began to see them not as competition but as mere prey.


    Just as a human wouldn''t fear a cow, vampires adopted the same mentality, applying it to the races they consumed.


    They believed themselves to be at the top of the food chain, a notion that only deepened their arrogance.


    "You and that mutt are the same, so who cares if I hurt the feelings of some big meat bag like you?" The vampire continued to poke his elongated fingernail into Chores''s chest, provoking the giant further.


    Chores slowly grasped the vampire''s hand with his own, which was five times larger.


    "Release my hand at once-"


    *CRUNCH*


    Without a moment''s hesitation, Chores clenched his fist, the grotesque sounds of flesh and bones cracking and tearing filling the air.


    "AHHHHHHHH!" The vampire screeched, falling to his knees as he desperately tried to pry his smashed hand free from Chores''s grip. But Chores remained silent, squeezing even tighter.


    "YOU DARE-" The vampire began to threaten, but Ricky slammed his sword onto the table, cutting him off.


    "The second your friends join in is the last time you''ll see them alive." Ricky warned, narrowing his eyes at Eliphas, ready to back Chores if needed.


    Eliphas merely raised a hand, while the other vampires exchanged frustrated glances.


    "Davide, resolve this, now." Eliphas ordered, side-eyeing his struggling brethren who clawed at Chores''s unyielding grip.


    "I-I-DAMMIT, I''M SORRY!" Davide shouted, directing his apology at Barko.


    The moment the words left his lips, Chores released his grasp, letting go of what was left of the vampire''s mangled hand, which now resembled a grotesque ball of flesh.


    "You know, they call him the gentle giant, but people still forget he''s still a giant," Ricky quipped, leaning back in his chair, trying to lighten the atmosphere as Eliphas finally took a seat across from him.


    "Why did you think it was wise to kill someone from my ancient sect?" Eliphas''s voice turned deadly, and Abraham nodded, understanding the weight of the question.


    "We need safe passage into Germany-" Abraham began, attempting to sidestep Eliphas''s ire, but the glare he received silenced him.


    "And I need to find Selene, but it seems we''re both unlikely to get what we want," Eliphas scoffed, sitting down across from the two, his demeanor shifting to one of reluctant resignation.


    "Here." Abraham placed a bottle of blood on the table, its crimson contents catching the light and drawing the attention of all the vampires in the room.


    Their eyes widened with hunger, a collective instinct kicking in as they focused on the offering, momentarily forgetting the tensions that had just flared.


    "The blood-"


    "Of the Pope himself," Abraham declared, revealing the prized bottle of blood he had taken from the Vatican''s weapons vault.


    The room fell into a hushed silence, all vampiric eyes fixated on the vial, gazing at such a pure substance in its consumable form.


    Eliphas, however, remained steady despite the rising hunger in the air as his gaze bore into Abraham, unyielding.


    "What of my kin?" Eliphas inquired, his voice steady but laced with tension.


    "He was in cahoots with the Kregier Sect. Why do you think I was able to track him down so easily?" Abraham shrugged, casually acknowledging the implications of his words as the Kregier Sect, under Dracula''s control, was a group Abraham had long kept a close watch on.


    Eliphas held his silence for a moment, seemingly digesting the information while his frown deepened, and he began to tap the table with his elongated fingernail, each tap resonating like a countdown, the tension in the room palpable as everyone awaited his response.


    "Any day now-"


    "Shut it tin can." Eliphas snarled, his patience wearing thin as he regarded Ricky''s nonchalant attitude, paired with his unapologetic display of disgust, grated on Eliphas''s nerves like sandpaper against flesh.


    Each casual remark and dismissive gesture from Ricky only deepened Eliphas''s irritation, fueling an undercurrent of tension that crackled in the air between them.


    "Seriously, though, does this knight outfit make me look dorky?" Ricky asked, his voice laced with genuine uncertainty as he glanced around the room.


    "At first, I didn''t mind it, but every time I catch my reflection, I feel like I''m just playing dress-up." Ricky spread out his arms and asked the room, his internal conflict bubbling to the surface as Abraham shook his head, letting out a weary sigh.


    "I think it looks very dashing." Percival remarked from above, earning a nod of agreement from Alexander.


    "It also makes you appear more chivalrous." Alexander chimed in his own two cents, agreeing with the floating ghostly form of Percival.


    Ricky frowned, his earlier comment about looking like a dork echoing in his mind as he realized their words only reinforced his self-doubt.


    "It is unlikely that I will be able to get you since Germany is not only locked down from the mortal view but the supernatural as well." Eliphas said, disregarding Ricky entirely as he turned to Abraham.


    Abraham frowned at the statement, this only reinforced his belief that something significant was happening in Germany, as even he couldn''t pry any information about what was transpiring there.


    The fact that Eliphas was equally in the dark suggested that his suspicions might be accurate as he knew he needed to keep tugging at that thread of mystery until he unraveled the truth.


    "Now, the vial," Eliphas demanded, extending his hand, prompting confused expressions from both of them.


    "Is that some vampire way of agreeing to something?" Ricky asked Abraham, who shook his head.


    "No, he''s probably confusing conversation with compensation." Abraham clarified, making Ricky chuckle at the absurdity of it.


    "You killed one of my men-"


    "I did you a favor, Eliphas," Abraham pointed out, his shame evident.


    "Yeah, seriously, you should be a bit more grateful," Ricky added, shaking his head in disbelief at Eliphas, who opened his mouth slightly in response to their shrewdness.


    The vampires nearby watched in disbelief at the two mortals'' arrogance toward Eliphas, as they regarded him as one of the fiercest beings in all of Italy.


    "This is going to get ugly." Alexander shook his head with a sigh and crawled back into the nook of Ricky''s armor, while Henry hovered in the air, curiously looking down below.


    "You dare walk into my territory, kill my men, and then demand my thanks? Do you not understand your position right now?" Eliphas''s eyes ignited with a fierce red glow as he stood up, only for Ricky to reach under the table.


    "I overlooked the deaths of my men and the incitement upon my territory, but I will be damned if I let you prance around without paying a price." Eliphas''s words dripped with menace, his hands pulsating with power as he prepared to pounce on them.


    "GIVE ME THE VIAL-"


    In the next instant, Ricky interrupted Eliphas''s statement as the table splintered in two, the tip of his blade thrusting forward.


    "You are strong, but that is all." Eliphas remarked, raising an eyebrow as he caught the sword within Ricky''s grip, pressing it against the cusp of his throat, surprising Ricky.


    Gritting his teeth, Ricky attempted to push the sword even an inch further, but it remained firmly in place.


    "That was a poor swing," Percival chimed in, just as Eliphas flicked his wrist, directing a swift motion the flicked the sword away as his other hand shot towards his body.


    *Crack*


    Ricky instinctively raised his barrier, only for it to crack under the strain as he felt a mental backlash; Eliphas merely raised an eyebrow in response.


    "Hmmmmm." Eliphas flicked his armor, sending Ricky stumbling backward onto his rear, puzzled as he realized he had been flicked like a child.


    "Ha!" Ricky''s eyebrow twitched, laughing out in slight frustration while seeing Eliphas was clearly looking down at him.


    "Alright, I kind of had that coming." Ricky stood up, cracking his neck and laughing at the irony of it all, before his glimmering green eyes shifted to a serious light.


    Flames began to materialize around Ricky, but Abraham placed a hand on his shoulder, calming him down as he pointed at him.


    "The deal still stands," Abraham chimed in, prompting Eliphas to assess the situation as he glanced at his underlings, who seemed oblivious to the danger they were in.


    Eliphas recognized that while he could take on Ricky, the real uncertainty lay with Abraham.


    He had never been able to predict Abraham''s actions and didn''t know whether he would fight alongside the new black knight or assist that brutish figure in eliminating his underlings first.


    "We accept. Meet us here in exactly one month." Eliphas''s words surprised everyone as they watched him stride out of the booth, the other vampires gazing at each other in confusion before following in suit and trickling out behind him.


    "Your magic mentor saved you; that man before you is a formidable creature." Percival remarked, while Alexander peeked his head out and nodded in agreement.


    "It''s true; your arrogance is seeping into your fighting style, and it shows," Alexander pointed out, prompting Ricky to frown as he assessed his earlier actions instead of shrugging them off.


    This was a lesson Ricky had been slowly integrating, as Alexander had taught him not to simply dismiss a win or loss, but to learn from it.


    He encouraged Ricky to reflect on events that had just transpired and strive to better himself should a similar situation arise.


    "You can''t beat Eliphas. I only brought you because I knew he''d bring his subpar lackeys, and knowing his soft side, he would be swayed once he realized he might win but at the cost of his subordinates." Abraham scoffed at Ricky, who widened his eyes in surprise at how much thought Abraham had put into this encounter.


    "Let''s go." Abraham stood up, turning to a surprised Ricky, his expression shifting into a frown.


    "Just because I''m an old drunkard doesn''t mean I''m not smart," Abraham scoffed, accurately reading Ricky''s thoughts from his mere gaze alone.


    "...." Ricky was about to retort but decided to remain silent, knowing it would only annoy Abraham further and instead, he glanced to the left for affirmation only to see both Chores and Barko whistling.


    "F*cking kids these days, no respect for their elders." Abraham said with disdain as he walked out of the bar.


    Later that night,


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    Ricky lay sprawled across the bed, utterly spent, while Agatha sat up beside him, her red lips glistening.


    With a slow, sultry motion, she flicked her tongue over them, savoring the remnants of their encounter.


    Over the past three months, Ricky hadn''t had much time to fill his bed with random women.


    The grueling training sessions with Abraham, Percival, and Alexander left him aching throughout the day and sore at night.


    It led him to keep his head down, focusing intently on his training since women were always a distraction for him.


    However, that didn''t exclude the occasional visits from witches who would teleport into his room for some late-night company.


    While some might consider it a waste to focus solely on his training, Ricky was still benefiting from his encounters with Agatha.


    His IP had surged from a modest 10,000 to nearly 170,000, all due to his frequent interactions with her.


    "How was that, darling? Has my form improved?" Agatha asked with a tinge of humor laced within, kissing the tip of his cock gracefully before crawling over to his side and sliding her finger along his chest.


    Agatha had been almost cold toward Ricky when they first met, viewing him as nothing more than a toy; however, over time, she began to warm up to his personality.


    "By leaps and bounds." Ricky replied, stroking her hair gently as he rested his head against it, feeling her slowly lay down on his chest.


    "So, how is the coven?" Ricky asked, aware that Agatha had made it painfully clear that her position as coven leader always came first, while their fun was a distant second.


    "Stressful, to say the least. The elders can''t agree on a new criterion for the younglings, and my nerves are suffering for it." Agatha sighed heavily, resting her head further onto his chest as he pushed the hair falling over her face to the side.


    "It''s why I needed this, our encounters always relieve my stress." Agatha patted him lightly, kissing his chest before winking at him in a playful manner.


    "Well, being an outlet does have its benefits." Ricky shrugged, Agatha chuckling at his words before tracing an ouroboros on his peck.


    "How are you? The last time we spoke, you were struggling with the sword." Agatha asked, checking in on him with a thoughtful gaze.


    She remembered that the last time they held one another, it wasn''t her relieving stress, but Ricky''s frustration with swordsmanship that always seemed to linger.


    *Sigh*


    "It''s just f*cking hard sometimes. The way Percival and Alexander talk, it''s as if it''s the easiest thing in the world, but I can barely manage my form at times." Ricky pinched the bridge of his nose, frustration evident as he struggled to learn how to wield a sword.


    "Things like that take time. Be patient, and I''m sure you''ll succeed," Agatha encouraged him, remembering how difficult it had been for her to learn magic at first, but Ricky''s self-doubt was clear when it came to swordsmanship.


    Everything else seemed easy for him, but with swordsmanship, it felt like it took ten times the effort to learn one thing compared to the average person.


    "Yeah, I don''t know if I have a knack for the sword-"


    "Darling, listen." Agatha grasped his cheeks, turning his face toward her so he could gaze into her firm purple eyes.


    "Strength, true strength, does not come to you suddenly out of nowhere." Agatha said, drawing from her own experience as she understood how frustrating it could be to struggle while others excelled.


    "It requires time, focus, effort, and you''re giving your training all of that and more." Agatha assured Ricky, trying to ease his doubts as over this time, she had grown emotionally attached to him.


    "You''re going to be fine. Remember that the ebony blade chose you for a reason." Agatha patted his cheek lightly before resting her head back on his chest.


    "Yeah, it chose me for a reason." Ricky laid back on the bed, repeating Agatha''s words while stroking her hair gently.


    But as Agatha drifted into sleep, Ricky remained wide awake, staring at the ceiling above him.


    What unnerved Ricky the most about his swordsmanship, compared to everything else, was that he was putting in significantly more effort.


    Usually, he would shrug off such feelings, but for once in his life, he genuinely cared about improving himself and felt a deep sense of insecurity.


    It wasn''t new for Ricky to have things come easily to him; he had grown accustomed to it but this blade was different.


    Sometimes, on a rare occasion, he felt as small as he did when he was on that ship headed toward the Vatican when holding the ebony blade.


    From the outside, Ricky always appeared to be in control, his sleazy smile masking the turmoil within and yet, the feeling of slipping always lingered in his mind.


    No matter how much he practiced, swinging it in a subpar manner or battling the spiraling, murderous thoughts that coursed through his mind, he couldn''t shake the feeling that he was losing his grasp on it.


    That feeling persisted in his chest until he glanced to the side, where the moon hung high in the sky, and realized that three hours had already passed.


    Gently removing himself from Agatha, Ricky laid her head softly on the pillow and as he sat up, he felt a pair of watchful eyes open in the darkness.


    "I take it I won''t be receiving any cuddling throughout the night?" Agatha''s purple eyes sparkled, shimmering like stars in the dim light.


    "I just can''t sleep, but I can stay-"


    "No, it''s alright. I have things I need to attend to as well." Agatha stood up, snapping her fingers as her clothes materialized around her, perfectly fitted and elegant.


    "And Ricky." Agatha said, suddenly turning serious as a purple portal formed beside her, swirling with energy as she smiled reassuringly.


    "It''s going to be alright." Agatha left him those warm parting words before stepping into the portal, leaving Ricky alone in the quiet of the room.


    He rubbed the back of his neck while letting out another sigh before walking toward the backyard, shirtless and clad only in a pair of shorts.


    Holding out his hand, the ebony blade suddenly lodged itself into his grasp, and Ricky felt that gnawing murderous intent creep into his consciousness.


    "Can''t sleep?" Percival hovered nearby, crossing his arms as he watched Ricky practice his form.


    "Obviously not if I''m here rather than in the arms of a beautiful woman." Ricky side-eyed Percival, clearly annoyed with the overly chivalrous man.


    "Well, you''re not the only one who lies awake at night, contemplating whether you''re still in control," Percival replied, a smile creeping onto his face as he saw through Ricky, who turned his head forward.


    "But remember, perseverance through those thoughts means not giving into the temptations of killing, steeling your heart in a shield of chivalry-"


    "You know, I''ve had my thoughts about that." Ricky suddenly stepped out of his form, turning back to face the ghost.


    "It seems like every single black knight you talk about in your examples of chivalry, the same ones who followed your advice, ended up the same way: out of their f*cking minds." Ricky pointed the sword at Percival, who looked down at his stubborn descendant.


    "Keeping your mind pure and your code in your heart-"


    "Gets you dead either way. So why should I dedicate myself to these stupid chivalrous teachings that lead nowhere but to the ground?" Ricky asked with a mocking laugh, seeing Percival''s constant words of chivalry as nothing more than a dead art.


    "Because that is what defines the good from the bad." Percival spoke from the heart, believing in his way with all of his heart.


    "I think that''s just a cop-out, an excuse to distract from the real truth." Ricky waved his finger at Percival, unable to see the light of this ghost''s words.


    "And what is that?" Percival raised his gaze at Ricky, watching him sheath the ebony blade.


    "I think you liked it, being the black knight and cutting through everything in your path." Ricky''s words caused Percival to squint, his gaze turning serious and unnerving.


    "Using this act of chivalry to defend yourself from the piercing eyes of others? But I''m not like you; I don''t f*cking care what others think of me just because I do what I need to survive." Ricky then turned his back, losing his appetite to train.


    "You''re walking a dangerous path young descendant-"


    "Better than walking the same path as all the others who slowly lost their minds." Ricky waved his hand, determined to wield the sword according to his own values rather than those of a dead man.


    Walking into the house, Ricky tossed the sword onto a nearby chair and made his way into the kitchen, which was filled with people.


    The owners of the house were currently vacationing, and Ricky had learned from Abraham to take advantage of these vacancies, so he helped himself to their wine cellar.


    "So, you''re Alexander the Great?" Barko asked in amazement as the gerbil, wearing Ricky''s translation ring around its waist, nodded in response.


    When Ricky didn''t need the ring, he would give it to Alexander so that he and Percival could communicate.


    However, after much consideration, Ricky had begun to trust Chores and Barko, deciding to let them in on some of his secrets.


    "I am young Barko, I am." Alexander puffed out his furry chest, while Barko shook his head in amazement.


    "Slick, can we talk?" Chores asked, approaching Ricky just as he was about to pour himself a glass.


    "Sure, why not." Ricky nodded, standing up as he noticed Chores wanted to speak privately.


    Chores led Ricky to a secluded room before turning around and rubbing the back of his neck.


    "What''s up?" Ricky asked as he sat in a chair and took a sip of the freshly poured glass of wine.


    "Listen, Slick, I know you''ve been going through a rough patch, and I understand that you''ve dealt with some heavy stuff," Chores began, though Ricky didn''t feel anger since he knew it was true.


    "And I think it''s great that you''re finally taking the necessary steps to improve yourself. Me and Barko have been giving you your space, but-" Chores''s expression grew serious as he recalled their time spent with Abraham.


    "But I think you''re putting too much trust in him, Abraham that is." Chores said honestly, observing Ricky''s confused reaction as he raised an eyebrow.


    "What are you talking about, Chores?" Ricky asked, sensing Chores struggling to find the right words.


    "I know you believe you''re using him, that you''re only following him because he ''said'' he''d teach you magic, but you''re underestimating what you bring to the table." Chores finally said, prompting Ricky to let out a small sigh.


    *Sigh*


    "I know that most of the time I''m thrown into situations with strong vampires, but most of them are because Alexander wants me to get more practice in fighting," Ricky explained as he usually took the lead on these missions to hunt vampires instead of just following Abraham.


    "That''s not what I''m trying to say. I''m saying you''re not leveraging your strengths enough, at least not in my eyes," Chores clarified, sharing his observations over the past three months.


    "I understand that the whole magic thing is important and might bear fruit later, but Abraham has been using you to eliminate almost the entire heavy cavalry and consistently putting you in these situations," Chores said, his assessment ringing true in Ricky''s mind as he started to contemplate Chores words.


    Over the past week, Ricky had been under Abraham''s tutelage, concentrating on battling the strongest vampires they aimed to hunt down. While Abraham would also engage in the fights, the effort he would need to expend against the vampires Ricky faced would be nearly ten times less.


    "That Eliphas guy really clouded my judgment, especially after Abraham used you as a decoy to manipulate the immensely strong vampire into his agreement," Chores expressed his thoughts as Ricky frowned deeply, finally realizing the extent to which he had been used.


    "I don''t mean anything by this-"


    "No, thank you for not just following me around and being a yes man," Ricky said, dismissing Chores with a wave as he genuinely appreciated being called out.


    Abraham had essentially dragged Ricky into a fight without consulting him, a fact that now irked him to no end.


    He stewed over this for quite some time until Abraham finally returned to the safe house, carrying a bag of blue crystals.


    "Oh, hey, kid." Abraham flinched, clenching the bag tightly before letting out a sigh, recognizing it was Ricky.


    "We need to talk." Ricky remarked, noting Abraham''s raised eyebrow as he scanned the area, realizing that the usual group was nowhere to be found.


    "Is this about my drinking?" Abraham asked, but Ricky shook his head with a laugh.


    "The only problem I have with your drinking is that you don''t share." Ricky stood up from his chair, and Abraham returned the laughter.


    "This is about earlier with that Eliphas guy." Ricky pointed, and Abraham rolled his eyes while letting out a dismissive breath.


    "He wasn''t going to do anything to you-"


    "That''s not the point; you led me into a losing situation without even a lick of context." Ricky pointed, and Abraham raised one of his hands.


    "Fine, I apologize-"


    *BAM*


    "Ugh!" Abraham fell to the ground as Ricky formed a mini psionic cannonball and shot it at his stomach.


    *COUGH*


    As Abraham began to cough, Ricky moved gracefully toward him, bending down to his level.


    Abraham looked up, his face flushed from the coughing fit, as if he were the one who had been wronged.


    "Listen, Abraham. I respect you as a mentor and appreciate the experience you bring, and I''m grateful you took me under your wing in terms of magic," Ricky said, gripping Abraham''s shoulder with a fierce gaze, smiling amidst Abraham''s coughing fit.


    "But that was your last warning cause I''m getting tired of this same charade. The next time you lead me into a situation with an overpowered vampire without giving me a heads-up, I''m going to hurt you, got it?" Ricky''s voice was chilling, mirroring the tension of his past encounter with Xarus, and Abraham could see just how furious Ricky was.


    "Got it," Abraham said, a little out of breath, as Ricky pushed him aside and walked away with Abraham''s flask.


    "Little sh*t-"


    *TINK*


    Ricky, reacting swiftly, turned and hurled the flask at Abraham''s head, prompting him to roll on the ground in agony.


    "F*CK!" Abraham exclaimed, clutching his forehead in pain as the metal flask clattered to the ground beside him.


    "Goodnight, Abraham." Ricky waved, a smirk playing on his lips as Abraham sneered through his discomfort.


    "Go f*ck yourself."


    The next day,


    In the morning, Chores was busy cooking breakfast while everyone gathered at the table. Abraham held a bag of peas against his forehead, wincing at the lingering pain.


    "Did you have to throw my flask at me, jackass?" he asked, shooting Ricky a disdainful glare.


    "I didn''t have to; I just really wanted to," Ricky replied with a shrug, a smile playing on his lips as he bit into a piece of bacon.


    Just then, Alexander scurried over to Abraham''s plate and snatched a piece of bacon for himself.


    "Give me my bacon-"


    "YOU DARE!" Alexander exclaimed, spinning around to point at Abraham, who flinched at the sudden confrontation.


    "You dare make demands after the stunt you pulled with my disciple, you scum," he scoffed, nibbling on the stolen bacon.


    "You think I''ve never eaten gerbils before?" Abraham shot back, his voice growing cold.


    "Do you think I''ve never killed giants before?" Alexander smirked, unfazed at the threat and with that remark, he took a bite of the bacon right in front of Abraham.


    The silence that followed was palpable until finally, Abraham nodded in respect, and Alexander continued to walk away.


    "I respect it," Abraham said, crossing his arms and leaning back in his chair.


    "So let''s iron out the details of how we''re going to Germany to see what Dracula''s up to, or else that little sissy over there will start whining-OW! DID YOU JUST THROW A PLATE AT ME?" Abraham yelled, looking incredulously at Ricky, who merely shrugged as if he didn''t know what he was talking about.


    "That Eliphas guy said to meet him there after a month; we''ll start planning after he tells us how the hell we''re getting there, but even then, I don''t trust that guy." Ricky first pointed out, seeing something really fishy in that guy but Abraham shook his head in denial.


    "Eliphas is a lot of things-"


    "I don''t care; I don''t trust him, nor do I trust you as far as I can throw you outside our training." Ricky outright insulted Abraham, who gnashed his teeth.


    "You know, I''ve had enough of you being such a little sh*t to me when it was YOU WHO FOLLOWED ME!" Abraham yelled, only for Ricky to jump to his feet and point back at him.


    "BECAUSE YOU WERE PUT IN CHARGE OF ME-"


    "OH F*CKING PLEASE, YOU THINK I CARE WHAT SEB SAYS-"


    "YES, LITERALLY HE IS THE ONLY PERSON I''VE SEEN YOU LISTEN TO!" Ricky yelled, forcing Abraham to retract his words since they were indeed true.


    "And besides, you owe me for leaving me for dead." Ricky held onto that grudge as Abraham crossed his arms.


    "Oh my god, when are you going to stop being such a sissy and let that go?" Abraham scoffed, not caring in the least for his previous actions.


    "When the chips are down, I''m dying, and you don''t leave me behind." Ricky countered, watching as Abraham rubbed his forehead in frustration.


    "So what, you want me to train you to help you get stronger, is that all?" Abraham plopped down in his seat, munching on his breakfast.


    "Uh, yeah?" Ricky replied, a bit unsure if that was the right answer, but Abraham merely scoffed.


    "Young people, I swear. You crave strength and power, yet you haven''t even begun to grasp what true overwhelming power really is." Abraham leaned back, munching on his bacon while downing it with his flask full of bourbon.


    "What is it-"


    "Responsibility!" Abraham yelled at Ricky, frustrated that the kid wanted all the benefits without acknowledging the drawbacks.


    "You think you can just gain power and get whatever you want? Well, you can''t, at least not in this world." Abraham laughed, his tone laced with the weight of experience.


    "There are many powers lurking, not just in this world, but beyond, things I haven''t even encountered, and I was at the pinnacle of magic in my era!" Abraham exclaimed, his voice heavy with the weight of unspoken fears.


    "I''ve wielded power the likes of which you''ve never seen, and sure, it''s nice. But strength always comes with opposition, and opposition leads to conflict. It''s a never-ending cycle that just wears you down." Abraham let out a pained sigh, recalling a time when he wasn''t locked in a struggle against Dracula


    "Sometimes I regret being so strong, but what I don''t regret is having the true power to control my fate because I''m glad that there wasn''t some random cosmic entity that was looking for a challenge and tried to seek me out. Because if you think that your really strong, wait til you realize that the universe f*cking huge-"


    *SIGH*


    "It''s just so annoying." Abraham thumped his head against the counter, his frustration evident as Ricky watched him with a plain expression.


    "Is that a yes or-"


    "Just go outside; I''ll be there in a second," Abraham sighed, his face pressed down against the counter.


    Not thinking much of it, Ricky walked out, and Abraham leaned back in his chair, catching sight of Chores cooking breakfast for himself.


    "Yeah, Chores, right?" Abraham asked, glancing over at the big guy, who turned to him without a hint of concern.


    "No, thank you." Chores replied, setting the plate down and removing his apron, only to notice Abraham giving him a strange look.


    "What do you mean I didn''t say anything-"


    "You were about to say something about how I''m not strong enough, that Slick will abandon me or get me killed if I stick around for too long," Chores stated, preemptively answering Abraham''s unspoken concerns, leaving the latter somewhat shocked.


    "I know, but even so, I would''ve died if Ricky hadn''t come to my rescue when he did, so I owe him my life," Chores continued, his conviction clear, but Abraham shook his head in disagreement.


    "And what, you''ve accepted your fate, just like the kid?" Abraham asked, gesturing toward Ricky, who was stretching in the sun, barely clothed.


    "Abraham, you continue to think that you and Ricky are the same but in reality, like I said before, you are only similar." Chores dabbed his mouth, gazing at Abraham with a calm expression.


    "Ricky is a selfish womanizer, yes, but unlike you, I believe he makes a difference, whether it''s for himself or against others, he causes change." Chores explained, sharing his reasons for staying and his high opinion of Ricky.


    "A difference? You''re kidding. What difference has he made that wasn''t just for his own ambition?" Abraham protested, but Chores shook his head.


    "If a man starts a fire just to watch it burn, does that change the fact that he set fire to all the obstacles surrounding himself?" Chores countered, posing a question that truly stumped Abraham.


    "Ricky isn''t a good person, I''ll agree with you on that. But even when he does wrong, he somehow manages to do right by those backing him, or at least he tries." Chores explained, pausing to reflect for a moment.


    "It''s hard to put into words, but once you spend enough time with Ricky, you''ll see what I mean." Chores finished his plate, rinsed it in the sink, and then walked outside.


    Ricky settled into a meditative pose, recognizing that magic training differed vastly from weapons practice.


    Unlike the physicality of combat, mastering magic demanded inner focus and spiritual alignment.


    There were many types and areas of magic, but Ricky, like Abraham, harnessed core magic, drawing upon the mana within his own body.


    Mana, an ethereal and potent energy, served as the lifeblood of all magical practices.


    It flowed through the veins like an invisible current, circulating throughout the user''s body and it was exceedingly rare for humans to be born with magic, and even rarer for them to contain this mystical power within themselves.


    Those few fortunate enough to possess magic from birth did not automatically form a core, a fact Ricky learned the hard way when Abraham called him a ''dumbass'' for assuming otherwise.


    For his practice, Ricky had to feel the flow of his magic within the core of his heart, a glowing nexus of mana he visualized as a pulsating, radiant sphere.


    From there, he needed to learn to channel this energy, moving it throughout his body with precision and intent.


    This process demanded patience and acute self-awareness, as the mana responded to his emotional and mental state, requiring a delicate balance between focus and relaxation.


    Spells were even harder to master, as they necessitated precise calculations and a deep understanding of magical mathematics.


    Each incantation required not just knowledge but a harmony between intention and execution, ensuring that the energy he summoned would manifest exactly as he envisioned.


    Ricky inhaled deeply, centering himself, feeling the warmth of his core pulse in sync with his breath.


    With every exhale, he focused on releasing distractions, allowing the mana to flow freely through him.


    He knew that even a moment''s lapse in concentration could lead to unintended consequences.


    Ricky, who was terrible at math, struggled immensely with this aspect of his training. The intricate calculations required to manipulate mana were a formidable challenge for him, and despite his best efforts, he found himself overwhelmed by numbers and formulas. Each attempt to channel his magic felt like scaling an insurmountable wall, with his mind often drifting back to simpler pursuits.


    Yet through all his patience and relentless determination, he had managed to learn four basic elemental spells, each one a testament to his perseverance in the face of his numerical challenges.


    Fireball: A swirling sphere of flame that burst forth from his fingertips, igniting anything it touched.


    Wind Slash: A sharp gust of air that could slice through obstacles, its blade as sharp as the focus of its caster.


    Water Surge: A wave of water that could either heal or hinder, a wide-cast array spell used for fights with multiple comrades or enemies.


    Earth Wall: A large protective barrier that rose from the ground, a spell formed for defensive purposes.


    It wasn''t that Ricky lacked the desire to learn more; he was eager to expand and use cool magic that everyone seemed to be able to wield.


    However, when faced with the complexities of an advanced spell requiring knowledge of Calculus, he quickly became overwhelmed.


    Frustrated and disheartened, Ricky decided to abandon the effort of learning more complex spells for the time being.


    Instead, he chose to concentrate on mastering the three basic elemental spells to their fullest potential.


    He understood that a solid foundation was crucial, and he hoped that by refining these spells would help prepare himself for more advanced magic in the future.


    "Tsk, listen, kid. I get it¡ªyou don''t want to learn advanced arithmetic until you''ve fully mastered those basic spells. But they can only take you so far," Abraham said, frustration seeping into his tone.


    "Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm~" Ricky hummed, slipping into meditation as he tuned out Abraham''s voice. The old man''s expression soured further, his teeth gritting in annoyance.


    "Fine." Abraham huffed, waving a dismissive hand.


    "It''s not like I care if you end up killing yourself." Abraham, with a scoff, he settled himself off to the side and picked up a newspaper, flipping through the pages with exaggerated disinterest, all while casting occasional glances at Ricky, who remained blissfully unaware of the world around him.


    The Van Helsing meditation method, renowned for its ability to refine and amplify the flow of core magic, demanded a grueling two hours of intense concentration and absolute stillness.


    "So about magic relating to math-"


    "You ain''t got what it takes, Barko." Abraham flipped the newspaper, his expression shifting to one of disappointment.


    "How dare you, a rancid old man, speak down to my furry comrade!" Alexander, clad in his imposing armor, brandished his spear menacingly at the indifferent Abraham.


    "Listen, furball." Abraham shot back, not bothering to look up.


    "Unless you feel what magic is like, you''ll never be able to wield it." Abraham turned the page of the newspaper, dismissing Alexander''s indignation.


    Despite the insult, Barko perked up, his ears standing tall as if sensing the tension.


    "F-FURBALL-"


    "It''s like asking a blind guy to paint the ocean," Abraham elaborated, his tone matter-of-fact.


    "Can you really expect him to know what it looks like or even get the colors right? Of course not." Abraham glanced at Barko, who nodded thoughtfully, the weight of the analogy sinking in.


    "Then, the reason you can manipulate magic-"


    "It''s because I already possessed it, mastered it, and memorized its textures well enough to wield it." Abraham explained to Barko, who listened intently, deep in thought as he tilted his head in contemplation.


    "Then if I am to assume that those vials are magic in its liquid form, how do you always possess such vials if you cannot-"


    "I''ve got a guy," Abraham said, quickly flipping to the next page of the newspaper, shifting the conversation''s focus as Barko nodded in understanding as Percival hovered nearby.


    "Abraham, it is uncommon for a black knight to possess magic. May I ask for your opinion on young Ricky''s progress?" Percival inquired, his curiosity evident as he met Abraham''s gaze, a rarity among the others.


    Despite Abraham''s many flaws, he held a grudging respect for a select few figures, one of whom was the legendary first black knight.


    "Honestly, Ser Percival," Abraham said, his tone surprisingly earnest.


    "It''s best to minimize his weapon training for now. It''s imperative that he strikes while his core is still malleable." Abraham looked up at the floating ghost, who nodded in understanding.


    "It''s surprising that someone so undeserving possesses such a vast range of powers, but if Ricky continues to act without properly honing his skills one at a time, he''ll become nothing more than a hollow shell of a once formidable figure." Abraham offered his honest assessment to Percival, who rubbed his chin thoughtfully, deep in contemplation.


    "None of us are masters of the mind," Abraham stated bluntly. "Ricky must learn to harness his psychic powers independently while simultaneously mastering three weapons. On top of that, he needs to grasp the intricacies of wielding magic." Abraham''s words hung in the air, Alexander felt a surge of resistance rising within him, but he couldn''t shake the truth of what Abraham was saying.


    "I was the same at his age, but Ricky is well¡ª.......Ricky." Abraham stated, unsure how to explain it, but both Percival and Alexander immediately understood.


    A collective sigh escaped the group as they turned their gazes toward Ricky, who remained focused on his practice, seemingly unfazed by the discussions around him.


    "It''s best that his main focuses are his psychic abilities and magic for the time being, until he gains a better grasp of them." Abraham continued, his words causing Percival to frown heavily.


    "But the ebony blade-"


    "Can wait, I ain''t gonna tag along forever like you two might." Abraham continued, revealing that eventually they would split up.


    "I agreed to help Ricky learn magic until he finds out what Dracula is up to; that''s the agreement we reached after the train." Abraham revealed, outlining the limits of their deal as Percival nodded in understanding.


    "But wasn''t the deal to help kill Dracula?" Alexander inquired, but Abraham scoffed, glancing over at Ricky and shaking his head.


    "The kid can''t kill Dracula. Only I can, but I need to do it alone. Once I''ve gathered enough of Mother Mary''s tears, I''ll be ready." Abraham''s gaze fell on the five vials sitting on the counter, the same ones Ricky had threatened to smash months ago.


    "I''ve been preparing for twenty years, ever since that day," Abraham said, his grip tightening around the vials before he tucked them back into his trench coat as he met Chores''s steady gaze, noting the intensity in the big man''s eyes.


    "Then you plan to leave after Slick helps you uncover the truth, correct?" Chores asked, his voice steady and unwavering, betraying a mistrust that lingered unlike the others in the room.


    "Correct."

 Chapter 80 - 79: Train Ride To Sicily

    Chapter 80: Chapter 79: Train Ride To Sicily


    2 hours later,


    "Ugh, alright I''m ready for the grueling sword training-"


    "Young Ricky, we will not hold training today." Alexander informed, pointing to one of Barko''s cards only to be aggravated to know it wasn''t the three of hearts.


    "Indeed, we have decided to let you wholly focus on your magical training for a while." Percival agreed, hovering back and watching the interesting game of Go Fish.


    Ricky stared at the card game, a bit taken aback as after three months of relentless training, the routine had been ingrained into him, leaving little room for anything else.


    "Alright." Ricky shrugged, cracking his neck with a hint of relief as he needed the break.


    Ricky then calmly walked back into the house, returning moments later with a glass of wine in hand.


    "Hey, old man, how close is Sicily from here?" Ricky asked suddenly, realizing they were actually in Italy and not trapped in the endless cycle of training that brought nothing but pain and stress.


    ''Might as well learn about my ancestry,'' Ricky thought, sipping his wine as Abraham furrowed his brows.


    "A day''s train ride. Why?" Abraham asked, a sense of unease creeping in as he watched Ricky down the glass.


    "Ah~" Ricky let out a relieved sigh, wiping his mouth before tossing the bottle to the side.


    "Well, since we''ve got a month until we know if we can even cross the border, I''m thinking about taking a little trip. Kick my feet up, let loose for a bit," Ricky revealed, walking over to grab the ebony blade.


    It surprised even him but in the last three months, he hadn''t gotten drunk, not even once.


    The closest he''d come was a light buzz, which felt like an achievement in itself and with all the stress he''d accumulated during that time, he figured a trip might be exactly what he needed to shake it off.


    "Who''s in?" Ricky asked, glancing around as Abraham stood up.


    "Kid, Eliphas could change his mind and-"


    ''Lie.'' Ricky scoffed, cutting him off and without warning, he hurled his glass at Abraham, who ducked out of the way just in time.


    "How did you even know I lied?!" Abraham exclaimed incredulously, his small deception unraveled in an instant.


    "Now that I think about it, you always seem to see through my lies-" Abraham added, staring at Ricky in bewilderment.


    "Oh, come on, old man, we''re in f*cking Italy, and all you want to do is be cooped up in this tiny villa?" Ricky spread his arms wide, flashing a smile, only to be met with uninterested faces.


    "I''ve already seen enough of this sh*tty country, staying here is the best-" Abraham began to rant, but Ricky had already tuned him out, turning to the side.


    "What about you, Chores? Barko?" Ricky asked, ignoring Abraham entirely as he looked at the other two.


    "I wish to stay here since this ''magic'' interests me deeply, especially after being a man of science for so long." Barko said, adjusting his goggles with a paw, his gaze briefly flicking to Abraham, who didn''t even acknowledge him.


    Throughout his time with Ricky, Barko often felt worse than useless as his mind, though brilliant, had been honed for research and little else, leaving him without a sense of purpose in the heat of Ricky''s world.


    Deep down, he longed not only to be taken seriously by Ricky but by everyone around him. Instead, he felt like a walking punchline, comedic relief that wasn''t even entertaining.


    He often saw himself as a throwaway character in a poorly written story, one with no real impact.


    But now, with the introduction of magic, Barko sensed an opportunity as this mystical element, with its endless possibilities, could be his chance to rise beyond the limits of his body and mind, to finally become something more than a mere talking dog.


    Side-eyeing Abraham, Chores knew it wasn''t wise to leave Barko alone with him. Still, he could easily deduce that Abraham wouldn''t leave without Ricky.


    Despite the older man''s gruff exterior and his constant front of independence, Chores had long seen through it.


    Ricky was critical to every one of Abraham''s plans, whether he admitted it or not and although he made it clear to Ricky, he still couldn''t trust Abraham with anything he said.


    Abraham''s reliance on Ricky wasn''t just for immediate gain, Chores suspected and it went deeper than that, something more calculated.


    Abraham was a man who understood how to leverage his resources, often portrayed as a drunken idiot, but everything he did felt meticulously planned, and Ricky was no exception to this pattern.


    Chores sensed that Abraham needed Ricky for something deeper, something beyond mere companionship or assistance, but he couldn''t quite put his finger on what it was and it was with the uncertainty gnawed at him, making him wary of their situation.


    Ricky could sense this on some level as Abraham''s obsession with the so-called weapon plus, along with his mind always locked into what was happening in Germany related to vampires, made Ricky think Abraham was hiding something.


    Yet, with all his training, Ricky''s focus was primarily on self-improvement rather than constantly probing the motives of those around him.


    ''What is he up to?'' Chores thought since unlike Ricky he couldn''t let it go, aware that Abraham needed Ricky for one more thing, but he couldn''t quite pin it down.


    "I''ll go." Chores surprised himself; his conservative and quiet nature made this announcement all the more shocking.


    Everyone knew that Ricky''s ''trip'' was essentially an excuse to let loose, so it genuinely surprised everyone that Chores actually wanted to join.


    Ricky''s eyes widened in surprise; Chores never joined him on excursions that weren''t related to business.


    "Hell yeah!" Ricky yelled, slapping Chores on the back and handing him his flask.


    "It''s about damn time we partied together!" Ricky laughed, a surge of excitement bubbling within him as he envisioned the chaos they would unleash in Sicily.


    Grabbing the frustrated Alexander, Ricky led Chores away from the rest while pumping his fist.


    "Henry, let''s-" Ricky began, glancing to the side only to find an uninterested Henry floating in his birdbath, eyes closed, completely oblivious to his summoner and basking in the sun.


    "Young Ricky, what of the vampires lurking around?" Alexander inquired, concern evident in his voice.


    "Well, Abraham said that Dracula is up to something, which is why he didn''t come to the Vatican back then." Ricky gestured toward Abraham, fully aware that he wouldn''t leave if someone of Dracula''s caliber was actively hunting him.


    "And besides, the only vampires that have come after me so far are low-level. As long as I flaunt this aura and use this sword, I can handle them." Ricky reassured him, easing Alexander''s worries as the famed general settled onto his shoulder.


    "Do you suppose any trouble shall arise?" Percival asked, taking Ricky''s words at face value as he gazed to the side, curious about Abraham''s perspective on the matter.


    "No, like the kid said, Dracula won''t move himself, not yet." Abraham reached for his flask, only to realize that the same one Ricky had handed to Chores was, in fact, his own.


    *Sigh*


    "Is this basis of magic instinctually-" Barko began to ask, but Abraham interrupted by pulling out his backup flask.


    "If Dracula were after the kid, he wouldn''t send a night raid; he would''ve come himself," Abraham said, squinting as he considered the implications. He knew there was a reason Dracula was staying in Transylvania.


    "He''s up to something, and sooner or later, I''ll sniff it out."


    Later at dusk,


    In Dracula''s spiraling gothic castle, the main vampire himself was pulling tubes from his body while casting a glance at one of his servants.


    "Master, congratulations on another successful extraction," Baron Blood said, kneeling on one knee and bowing to his formidable master, who was connected to several experimental machines.


    Tubes pumped strange liquids into Dracula''s body, illuminating the dark chamber with an eerie glow.


    "What is it?" Dracula asked, annoyance lacing his voice as he bristled at the thought of others seeing his slightly warped, exposed figure.


    Baron Blood didn''t dare to look up but smiled at the sight of the grieving ghouls before lowering his head once more.


    "The Black Knight has made a move, he is headed onto a train towards Sicily." Baron Blood revealed, Dracula clutching his fist but shaking his head.


    "My body is too volatile at the moment for a meeting with the one who possesses the ebony blade even in his fledgling form, especially with Percival by his side." Dracula glanced at the German Nazi scientist, who nodded nervously in agreement, his face pale.


    "I need more time for everything to adjust, but it shouldn''t be long," Dracula said, glancing at his hand as he watched as it morphed into a claw before reverting back to its original form.


    "Then perhaps I could assist my master by confronting this vile blood bag?" Baron Blood suggested though his words only made Dracula frown as he walked through the castle, and Baron Blood fell into step behind him.


    "Has Weapon Plus become so stable in its research that it allows you to frolic about?" Dracula asked, casting a sidelong glance at Baron Blood, who quickly ducked his head in response.


    "No my master, the vampires and humans have all died but-"


    "Do you think I haven''t been observing that little fledgling enough to know that Abraham is hovering over him? The second you or any of our vampires try to move in, he''ll intervene," Dracula revealed, speaking highly of Abraham as he waved his hand dismissively.


    "From our observations, the Black Knight and his followers have boarded the train without being escorted by Abraham or anyone else for that matter." Baron Blood''s words caused his master to halt all movements.


    "Hahahahahahahahaha!" Dracula erupted in laughter, turning around with a fierce grin.


    "Where is Abraham as of now?" Dracula eyes gleamed with delight at this news, and he pressed further, eager for more information.


    "Abrella-"


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Dracula cackled, clutching his face as he recalled that horrid creature.


    "So that is why you''re roaming about in Italy," Dracula said in a somber tone, his eyes glinting with mockery as he stared ahead, already formulating a plan.


    "I''ll grant you permission to seek the Black Knight''s head." Dracula declared, waving his hand. A sinister red aura pulsed around his elongated fingernails as he conjured a bat from the shadows.


    "And I''ll send a little message to that horrid creature, Eliphas."


    After leaving the small villa in Abrella, Ricky strolled with Chores in hand toward the train station and instead of paying, he simply flashed his cross.


    The cross had many features, but for those within its faith, it functioned almost like a credit card. While it wasn''t recognized in America, in Italy, the country that housed the Vatican, its power was immeasurable.


    With a flick of his wrist, Ricky secured tickets, snacks, and booze, receiving everything he desired with just a flash of the cross.


    "This is how life should be, Chores~" Ricky sighed, feeling the buzz from the constant flow of alcohol while savoring the martini in his hand.


    They were three hours into their train ride, nestled in a private carriage far from the common folk.


    The luxury didn''t stop at the secluded rooms; they also had a personal bar with a dedicated bartender, ensuring their every whim was catered to.


    "Giovanni, another!" Ricky called out, raising his martini, while Chores sighed, accidentally spilling some of his drink onto his coat, which he wore over his armor.


    "Man, this-ow, stop!" Ricky exclaimed, covering his face as his sentient trench coat slapped him with the waistband, clearly annoyed at having alcohol spilled on it without so much as an apology.


    "F*cking hell, I''M SORRY!" Ricky tried to get a word in until he had to yell it, and only then did the trench coat acquiesce, dropping the waistband back down in resignation.


    "Of course, sir." Giovanni replied, moving over to take the martini from Ricky''s hand before heading off to prepare another.


    "What about you, you''ve barely touched your drink?" Ricky remarked, gesturing toward the glass, Chores had been nursing for the past three hours.


    "I''m not a drinking enthusiast like you," Chores sighed, rolling his eyes at the now familiar question as this was the eighth time Ricky had commented on his solitary drink.


    "Ah, I get it," Ricky said with a knowing nod. Chores raised an eyebrow, feeling a mix of curiosity and caution that urged him to dig deeper.


    "You do?" Chores replied, thinking he finally grasped that Ricky was simply acknowledging his reluctance to drink.


    "Of course, you''re saving all your attention for the woman!" Ricky laughed, prompting a heavy sigh from Chores, who raised his brow in response.


    "Wait, what woman-"


    *Ring*


    The cabin bell rang, and Chores turned to see two elegantly dressed women enter, prompting him to scrunch his brows in confusion.


    "Dibs on the brunette." Ricky whispered towards Chores, jumping to his feet and striding confidently toward the woman he had ordered through Giovanni.


    *Sigh*


    Chores sighed, watching Ricky swagger over to the high-priced escorts ordered through Giovanni''s discretion.


    Meanwhile, Alexander hopped off Chores''s shoulder and settled onto his lap, offering a small semblance of comfort amidst the chaos.


    "Hey good looking, what''s cooking-"


    *SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS*


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" The prostitute suddenly wailed, her voice twisting into a howling hiss and Ricky flinched, his gaze darting down to his hand.


    Knowing that his aura was still activated and effective only against unholy beings, Ricky watched the supposed prostitute sizzle in pain, and amidst the clutter of his buzz, a startling realization struck him.


    "CHORES!" Ricky shouted, reaching for his waist as Chores swiftly grabbed the brass knuckles that enlarged into his fist.


    "GOT IT!" Chores replied, charging forward as he snatched a chair from the side and hurled it at the unharmed prostitute.


    *BAM*


    The prostitutes tore away their human disguises, revealing their ghoulish forms beneath as Ricky''s expression twisted into one of disgust as he realized the truth behind their fa?ade.


    ''MURDER, BATHE IN THEIR BLOOD-'' The ebony blade gargling voice rang in his head.


    "Ugh, I got a half chub for nothing." Ricky lamented, swinging his sword in a wide arc as the ghouls recoiled in horror, their grotesque features illuminated by the dim light of the cabin.


    "FOOLS, THE LORD OF BLOOD WILL HAVE YOUR HEAD-"


    "Fireball." Ricky promptly interrupted the ghoul, not bothering to wait for their transformation to complete.


    Thrusting his hand forward, sending a blazing fireball hurtling toward the ghouls, the heat radiating off it as it tore through the air.


    "SCREEEEEEEEE!" The ghoul shrieked, the fireball slamming into its face.


    The impact sent waves of agony through its body, the residual effects of Ricky''s holy aura melting its decayed flesh.


    Despite the excruciating pain, it didn''t die, writhing in torment as its ghastly form struggled to remain intact.


    "YOU DARE-" The other ghoul snarled, its eyes blazing with fury as it glared at Ricky.


    It was desperate to retaliate, longing to pounce on the one responsible for inflicting such a brutal wound on its companion.


    *BAM*


    Chores'' fist plunged into the ghoul''s face with brutal force, intending to crush its skull and instead, his fist sank deep into its decaying flesh.


    *SPLAT*


    The ghoul''s head erupted like a balloon, showering the back walls of the train carriage with rotten flesh and shards of bone, leaving a gruesome display in its wake as its lifeless body collapsed to the floor.


    Without missing a beat, Ricky lunged forward, bringing the ebony blade down in a swift, decisive motion, cleaving the remaining ghoul in half with ease.


    "You slouched your posture, young Ricky," Alexander remarked, hopping off Chores and settling onto Ricky''s shoulder.


    "Why can''t you ever say ''Good work'' or ''Nice job''-" Ricky asked, swinging the blade to the side and sending a spray of flesh flying off its edge.


    "Am I training a sissy? A fairy?" Alexander teased, shaking his little gerbil head in disapproval. Ricky scoffed, turning away from the gory scene to head back to the bar.


    Giovanni, trembling in sheer fright, peeked half his head over the counter, still reeling from the gruesome spectacle he had just witnessed.


    "I-I didn''t know-"


    "Martini, make it," Ricky commanded, pointing his blade at Giovanni.


    The bartender straightened his back instinctively, hurrying to fulfill the order as he began to prepare another martini, his hands shaking slightly from the adrenaline still coursing through him.


    "It appears that we have company." Chores assessed the situation, gazing back at Ricky leaning on the bar while awaiting his drink.


    "Don''t tell me Dracula actually crawled out of his little sewer to fight me?" Ricky wondered aloud, his brow furrowing in disbelief as Chores shook his head, scanning the dimly lit train carriage for any signs of danger.


    "No, Abraham said that Dracula has some unknown reasons for-"


    Time seemed to halt as Ricky''s pupils dilated, the world around him fading into silence.


    His danger sense blared like a siren, deafening everything else as he locked eyes with Chores, instinctively constructing an invincible barrier, slamming it down on Chores'' side just as he leaped over it himself.


    *BOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    A deafening explosion erupted, sending debris flying in all directions as the shockwave hurled both Chores and Ricky against the wall, their bodies colliding with a painful thud as chaos enveloped the cabin.


    *RIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGGGGGG*


    Ricky''s ears rang, and as he slowly blinked his eyes open, he found Alexander tapping his face, the little creature''s worried expression coming into focus amid the swirling chaos.


    His trench coat, now marred with rips and tears, wailed in distress, the waist belt flapping like a mournful banner as it conveyed its discontent as if it was almost as if the coat were crying out for attention.


    "Ugh~" Ricky groaned, pressing a hand to his throbbing head as he turned to see Chores struggling to push debris off himself.


    The gentle giant''s body was battered and bruised, a fresh stream of blood trickling down from a gash on his forehead.


    He glanced to the side, his eyes widening in shock as he took in the massive hole not just in his car, but also realizing that it stretched through the entire train.


    The devastation was staggering, with chaos spilling into the adjacent compartments as debris littered the ground.


    Mangled bodies were strewn about, and the few survivors either lay barely alive or screamed in sheer terror, their voices echoing through the wreckage.


    "YOUNG RICKY, ARM YOUR MIND AND RAISE YOUR SWORD!" Alexander screeched, scurrying into a crevice within Ricky''s armor to hide.


    *Clink*


    *Clink*


    *Clink*


    The sound of two hollow objects clinking together suddenly pierced the air amidst the screams, drawing Ricky''s gaze forward to the gruesome sight.


    "Oh Black Knight~" A hum reverberated through the cabin, Ricky sharpening his senses and getting into his stance while seeing the being on the other side of the train.


    His eyes narrowed at the sight on the other side of the train, where a figure clinked together two decapitated heads, bits of flesh still clinging to the skulls.


    "Chores, we got to leave-"


    "Arck, Slick I-I-my leg, it''s broken." Chores stammered in pain, glancing down to see his leg bent at an unnatural angle.


    "F*ck!" Ricky cursed under his breath as he assessed the dire situation.


    With the train car blown to bits, Ricky scanned the scene, finding himself surrounded by the confines of a tunnel.


    Chores''s injury left him more of a burden than an ally, weighing heavily on Ricky''s mind and then, a spark of inspiration struck him as he held out his hand, focusing intently.


    ''Ethereal Sanctuary!'' Ricky yelled in his mind as a protective dome enveloped Chores, bathing him in a shimmering green light.


    0:59:59


    A timer hovered above the dome, counting down ominously as Ricky turned his head back to the figure strolling through the wreckage.


    The figure casually lifted an injured passenger, the victim''s feeble attempts to resist barely registering.


    With a sinister calmness, the figure drained the life force from the helpless soul, blood trickling down its chin, a grotesque reminder of the horror unfolding around them.


    "Young Ricky, this foe is more formidable than Xarus, brace yourself." Alexander assessed the situation, his sharpened mind quickly deducing the threat as Ricky sheathed his sword and equipped himself with a bow, gauntlets, and shin guards.


    Each piece of armor clinked into place amidst his black knight attire, providing him with a sense of security amid the chaos.


    He knocked an arrow, readying himself for whatever horror approached, determination flashing in his eyes as he prepared to confront the sinister figure.


    Quickie Armor and Weapon Overview:


    (Legendary Weapon) Luminary Sunfire Bow


    (Legendary Armor) Gauntlets of the Damned


    (Legendary Armor) Constantine Trench Coat


    (Epic Armor) Lightbringer Shinguards


    "Oh, I will. This damned bastard ruined my steamy night." Ricky''s priorities were clear as he drew back the bowstring, an arrow forged from the Solar Flame bow beginning to take shape in his grip.


    "Ah, there you are!" The figure laughed, pretending not to have noticed him before tossing the drained female aside and giving a slight bow.


    "I am Baron Blood, esteemed servant of my master-"


    *WHOOSH*


    Baron Blood tilted his head slightly, narrowing his eyes as the arrow whizzed by him, thudding into the wall behind with a resonating thump.


    *Boom*


    A fiery explosion erupted, sending dust and debris flying in all directions. Yet Baron Blood remained unfazed, merely squinting his eyes against the chaos.


    *Ssssssss*


    The Luminary Sunfire Bow, a weapon that infused the power of the sun into its arrows, only grazed Baron Blood''s cheek, yet the wound displayed its potency as instead of healing, his flesh sizzled, the scorched skin refusing to regenerate.


    "That simply won''t do~" Baron Blood hummed a sinister tune, snapping his fingers as the corpses around him convulsed.


    A dark mist rose from their lifeless bodies, their blood drawn towards him in a grotesque display of power.


    "Blood excursion." Baron Blood tested something, launching streams of blood-sharpened projectiles directly at Ricky as each one was tipped with lethal precision, aimed to strike him down.


    Ricky didn''t even flinch, his senses honed and alert and as the projectiles hurtled toward him, he focused, waiting for his danger sense to kick in.


    With a squint of determination, he reinforced his psychic barrier, watching as each blood-sharpened projectile collided against it, shattering harmlessly.


    ''Full counter.''


    A blinding flash of light erupted, and as it faded, Baron Blood found himself besieged by his own spell, amplified and redirected back at him.


    He swiped the air in a desperate attempt to deflect the oncoming energy, his expression shifting from amusement to alarm.


    "Corpse shield." Baron Blood commanded lightly, his voice resonating with authority.


    The drained bodies around him began to swirl together, forming a grotesque mass of flesh that morphed into a protective barrier, rising in front of him like a grotesque wall of lifeless skin.


    *BOOOM*


    The two spells collided in a violent eruption, unleashing a shower of bloody, gruesome fragments that scattered throughout the cart.


    However, as the horrid sight settled, Baron Blood remained unharmed, standing defiantly amidst the wreckage, a sinister smile curling on his lips.


    "So my master''s assessment was correct; you can reflect magic back, fascinating." Baron Blood let out in an amused manner, tapping his pale chin.


    *Sigh*


    Baron Blood twirled gracefully, the arrow narrowly missing him yet again, its tip skimming by without leaving a mark this time.


    "Must you continue these futile attacks-"


    *BOOM*


    Baron Blood stared at Ricky with an unimpressed deadpan expression, clearly irritated by the interruption. Ricky frowned as he nocked another arrow, his gaze fixed intently on the bow.


    "Why can''t I hit him?" Ricky asked Alexander, frustration evident in his voice as he ignored Baron Blood as the gerbil scratched his furry chin thoughtfully.


    "Try pulling the bowstring back further." Alexander advised calmly, his tone reasonable. Ricky nodded in affirmation, considering the suggestion.


    Gritting his teeth, Ricky''s muscles tensed as he pulled the bowstring back, channeling more sunlight into the arrow.


    Baron Blood''s instincts screamed at him, prompting him to rush forward, sensing the overwhelming power coalescing.


    Ricky smirked, releasing the arrow; the air shimmering around the bow as it shot outward at terrifying speeds.


    *WHOOSH*


    Baron Blood tried to dodge to the side, but the narrow confines of the train hindered his movements as the arrow hurtled toward him with blinding speed, offering him little room to evade.


    Despite his best efforts, he couldn''t escape entirely; the arrow pierced through his side, leaving a scorched wound and a searing pain in its wake.


    "YOU DARE!?" Baron Blood bellowed, glaring at the slight searing hole in his side that refused to heal.


    "WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO, TALK WITH THE GUY WHO ALMOST KILLED ME FIVE SECONDS AGO?" Ricky shot back, irritation bubbling over as he struggled to understand why the vampire expected him to engage in conversation after nearly slaughtering him and Chores just two minutes prior.


    "NONSENSE, THAT ATTACK WOULDN''T HAVE KILLED THE BLACK KNIGHT-"


    "AND NEITHER DID MINE, SO I GUESS WE''RE EVEN!" Ricky screeched, pointing a finger back at Baron Blood as the vampire opened his mouth to retort but found himself at a loss for words.


    "Very well, I will acquiesce on this occasion if you''ll listen to my proposal." Baron Blood gritted through clenched fangs, straightening up while eyeing Ricky, who frowned but kept his arrow drawn back.


    "Fine, let''s hear your obvious recruitment." Ricky replied, already anticipating the vampire''s pitch as he continued to strain against the bowstring, feeling the tension building in his muscles.


    Ricky had never struggled to draw the arrow to its usual position, but extending the flaring bowstring further required immense effort, causing his muscles to tremble with strain.


    ''I can''t believe I didn''t think of this before.'' Ricky mused, realizing it was such an obvious approach that he had completely overlooked.


    "Join Dracula, swear fealty to him, and proclaim him your master so we can finally build the KINGDOM OF MONSTERS THAT OUR MASTER DESIRES!" Baron Blood preached fanatically, his words eliciting a collective sigh from both Ricky and Alexander.


    "So you want my master to be some random withered old man?" Ricky frowned at the thought, knowing he might have considered it if it were a busty vampiress with alluring curves instead.


    "W-Withered o-old-" Baron Blood stuttered, taken aback that a mere human would dare describe Dracula in such a manner.


    "Actually, quick question: are all vampires as weird-looking as you? Because I''ve yet to see a female vampire, let alone a good-looking one." Ricky asked, eyeing Baron Blood''s odd clothing and particularly his unattractive features.


    Baron Blood was left speechless by this manner of speech from the self-proclaimed Black Knight, a title typically reserved for the most honorable and chivalrous of knights.


    "Teach, level with me,there have to be sexy vampires out there, right?" Ricky''s voice held a hint of desperation, and to his surprise, Alexander nodded in agreement.


    "Has to be," Alexander said without a hint of doubt, which eased Ricky''s tension.


    *Sigh*


    "Oh, thank god." Ricky let out a sigh of relief, feeling a little better before gazing at the baffled Baron Blood.


    "Anyways, back to the fight." Ricky released the arrow, and instead of flying straight, it erupted in a blast, tearing Baron Blood apart in an explosion of flames and debris.


    "What the-"


    *BAM*

 Chapter 81 - 80: Unleashing The Ebony Blade

    Chapter 81: Chapter 80: Unleashing The Ebony Blade


    *BAM*


    Ricky''s head snapped to the side as a violent, jarring sound filled the air, the sheer force of it causing cracks to splinter across his psychic barrier.


    The oppressive pressure of Baron Blood''s relentless attack pressed in, the vampire lord trying to plunge into Ricky''s mental defenses with ferocious intensity.


    Before Ricky could process, Baron Blood''s real plan unfolded as he had casted a blood double to serve as a distraction when Ricky sighed.


    Then while Ricky turned back, the true Baron Blood had already slipped outside the train car, swooping in like a predator through the chaos.


    Baron Blood''s efforts were feral, like a rabid dog tearing at a cage, his elongated nails clawing and scraping at Ricky''s psychic barrier.


    Each strike sent splinters of mental force scattering as Ricky, undeterred, focused with intense resolve, pulling back the arrow on his Solar Flame Bow just as Baron Blood''s razor-sharp nails punctured the barrier, tearing through with a menacing hiss.


    *BOOOOOOM*


    Suddenly, a burst of searing fire erupted around Ricky, the explosion sending him hurtling through the air.


    His body twisted mid-flight, instinctively stowing away the Solas Flame Bow into his inventory.


    With practiced precision, he unsheathed his sword, its gleaming blade reflecting the chaos around him.


    As Ricky landed, his boots skidded against the floor, but he quickly regained his stance, sword raised and ready.


    His eyes locked on Baron Blood, who charged forward with renewed intensity, each step resonating with lethal intent.


    ''I can''t believe I missed such a close shot.'' Ricky frowned, frustrated at how he''d missed such a close shot as the weight of the missed opportunity lingered as he tightened his grip on the sword, preparing for the oncoming clash.


    *WHOOSH*


    The only real damage Ricky had inflicted was the lingering fire, which had seared Baron Blood but only caused minimal harm.


    It wasn''t nearly enough to slow him down as Baron Blood raced forward, his figure a blur of speed and fury.


    Ricky squinted, locking his eyes on the oncoming vampire, muscles coiling in preparation as his mind raced as he calculated Baron Blood''s movements, knowing the slightest mistake would cost him.


    Then, with a sudden shift in direction, Baron Blood lunged, not at Ricky, but at Chores.


    "FOOL, I SHALL FEAST ON THE BLOOD OF YOUR COMRADE-"


    *TINK*


    "Wh-What?" Baron Blood stammered, recoiling as his claws collided with an invisible force.


    He stumbled back, eyes widening in shock as he saw a shimmering sphere enveloping Chores.


    Inside, Chores lay incapacitated from the pain, but to Baron Blood''s disbelief, his leg was already mending back in place.


    "A timer-" Baron Blood muttered under his breath, his gaze shifting upwards to the 48-minute timer hovering above Chores before his eyes shrank in realization as he spun around, but it was too late.


    Ricky''s eyes blazed with intensity as he swung his sword down with ferocious power.


    Baron Blood''s nails glowed crimson, attempting to block the strike; however, to his shock, the legendary blade cleaved through the hardened nails as if they were nothing but butter.


    The sword continued its lethal descent, forcing Baron Blood to kick himself back, narrowly escaping the full force of the attack.


    A thin line of blood appeared on his chest, and though Baron Blood was shocked beyond belief, he didn''t let it show on his face.


    Baron Blood''s eyes narrowed at Ricky, reevaluating the young knight with a new sense of caution.


    His confident demeanor shifted, the arrogance he once displayed replaced by a sharper, more calculated intensity.


    "Do you think I''d just let another blood-sucking bastard kill one of my guys?" Ricky''s green eyes gradually deepened into a crimson hue, the blade in his hand vibrating with a dark thrill, feeding off the malevolent energy radiating from its wielder.


    The air around them seemed to thicken, the sword pulsing as if alive, eager to taste the blood of the enemy before it.


    The sheer hatred and bloodlust, a boiling rage ignited by the haunting memory of Rocco''s lifeless body, surged through Ricky''s veins, overwhelming his senses.


    Those emotions gnawed at his sanity, each flash of Rocco''s face fueling his fury as he locked eyes with another vampire who threatened to replicate that horrific scene.


    Ricky''s eyes darkened to a deep crimson, the ebony blade pulsating with a sinister energy that amplified his fury.


    He fixed his gaze on Baron Blood, the ferocity of his intent radiating like a storm about to unleash its wrath as each heartbeat echoed with a primal urge to annihilate.


    "Oh?" Baron Blood taunted, closing the gap between them with a confident stride, but Ricky seized the moment.


    *Clang*


    Ricky swung down with all his might, but Baron Blood deftly smacked the blade aside, narrowly avoiding the deadly arc of the sword.


    The force of the missed strike sent a shockwave through Ricky''s arms, but he quickly regained his footing, readying for another attack.


    "That''s a timer above your little friend there, isn''t it?" Baron Blood mused, a sinister smile spreading across his face as his fangs gleamed in delight as the holy aura radiated from Ricky, pulsing with power.


    "I wonder what happens when that timer reaches zero." Baron Blood taunted, his voice dripping with mockery as Ricky''s grip tightened around the hilt.


    But then, to Baron Blood''s shock, eldritch dark flames engulfed the ebony blade.


    The horrid warmth radiating from it sent a thrill of anticipation through the bloodthirsty sword, merging its sinister energy with the holy light.


    Baron Blood could only watch in awe as this unnatural fusion of powers defied all he thought he knew about life, death, and the supernatural.


    "I''M GONNA RIP OUT YOUR SPINE!" Ricky roared, his eyes blazing crimson with fury, his monstrous aura exploding all around him as he lunged forward.


    Alexander, sensing the brewing storm, wanted to say something to Ricky but hesitated, knowing all too well how foolish it was to stand in the line of sight of a berserker.


    "Foolish blood bag, this will not-ARCK!" Baron Blood''s laughter faltered as Ricky swiftly shifted from dual-grip to a single grip.


    Ricky lunged forward, thrusting the Gauntlets of the Damned, his claws sinking deep into Baron Blood''s undead flesh.


    Baron Blood''s eyes widened in shock as he felt his life force being siphoned away, the cold grip of Ricky''s claws draining his very essence.


    Panic washed over him as he glanced upward, only to see the sword in his other hand glowing ominously, poised to strike with devastating power.


    "BLOOD SHIELD-"


    "DIE!"


    *BOOOOOOOM*


    A deafening explosion rippled through the train car, obliterating everything in its wake.


    What once stood intact was now reduced to a smoldering ruin, the shockwave tearing apart the very structure as debris scattered everywhere.


    Only the floor remained intact, shaking violently as the train hurtled towards a bridge, skidding dangerously along the rails.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Ricky stood amid the carnage, gripping his head as the remnants of the explosion settled around him.


    His eyes burned a furious red, reflecting the chaos, while the sword screamed in his mind, urging him deeper into his berserker state.


    The intoxicating call of power surged through him, blending rage and bloodlust into an overwhelming torrent that threatened to consume him.


    ''KILL!''


    ''KILL!''


    ''KILL!''


    ''KILL!''


    ''KILL!''


    ''KILL!''


    ''KILL!''


    ''KILL!''


    The sound was horrid and grotesque, a cacophony that clawed at Ricky''s mind, dragging him deeper into the abyss of his sanity.


    Each dissonant note shattered his mental fortitude, splintering what remained of his composure as the relentless noise twisted his thoughts into a frenzy of rage and despair.


    "Y-You cannot be left to dwell." Baron Blood huffed, hovering to the side while clutching his chest.


    The wounds he bore, a direct consequence of his arrogance and complacency, weighed heavily on his superiority complex.


    For the first time, he grasped why his master had deemed Ricky a threat that needed to be eliminated.


    Baron Blood understood that while Dracula desired Ricky''s head, it might be more advantageous to bring him to their side.


    Yet, he never imagined that his underestimation would leave him so severely wounded.


    ''Furthermore, I''m not healing,'' Baron Blood realized, staring at the gash in his chest that remained charred and unhealed.


    He watched as Ricky struggled with his own sanity, oblivious to his presence in the air.


    Seizing the opportunity, Baron Blood raised his hands, channeling all of his magic into a single spell.


    A red mist erupted around him, billowing into the night sky and enveloping it in a crimson haze.


    The mist swirled and thickened, forming ominous red clouds that darkened the atmosphere above.


    "YOUNG RICKY, YOU MUST REGAIN YOUR SENSES!" Alexander urged, his voice cutting through the chaos as he noticed the immense power swirling at Baron Blood''s fingertips.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    However, Ricky was too preoccupied by his own thoughts, more specifically, the memories of the blade wielders that were being forcefully injected into his shattered sanity.


    "P-Poppa?" A child peeked through a door, stepping into a haunting memory that had tormented Ricky''s dreams for so long.


    Instead of observing from the sidelines, Ricky was now trapped in the child''s perspective, inching closer with each fated breath to the lifeless body of Percival.


    Lying limp on the marble floor, surrounded by a pool of his own blood, Percival''s lifeless body seemed to beckon the child closer.


    The small figure fell to his knees, reaching out as if the mere act could alter the course of fate.


    "W-Wake up, Poppa," Ricky choked out, the words laced with a painful desperation as he gripped tightly onto his clothes.


    Each sniffle echoed in the silence, amplifying the agony coursing through him, a heart-wrenching plea that only deepened the chasm of despair.


    "POPPPPPPPPPPPPA!"


    *CRACKLE*


    The air crackled violently as a roaring streak of crimson lightning tore through the darkness, illuminating the child''s terrified face.


    Ricky screamed at the top of his lungs, a raw, primal sound that reverberated against the walls, blending with the chaos surrounding him.


    The world around him blurred with his own reality into a whirlwind of agony and despair, each flash of red igniting memories he desperately wished to escape.


    *BOOM*


    The stunning wall crumbled under the impact of a sudden projectile, sending debris scattering everywhere.


    Ricky instinctively turned, his reflexes kicking in as he reached out into the chaos as his fingers closed around nothingness, and in the next heartbeat, the hilt of the ebony blade settled into his grasp.


    A surge of anger coursed through him, igniting a flame deep within his core, the dark power of the blade resonating with his rage and despair.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The cries of the boy and Ricky melded into a chilling symphony of anguish, echoing through the air.


    Ricky gripped the blade tightly, the weight of sorrow coursing through his veins, amplifying the depth of his scream.


    The sound was raw, a manifestation of the immense sadness and rage that intertwined in his heart, reverberating with every beat as if the world itself mourned alongside him.


    "YOUNG RICKY, SNAP OUT OF THE TRANCE! HEAVEN CANNOT BROOK TWO SUNS NOR EARTH TWO MASTERS!" Alexander roared, his voice cutting through the chaos as he sensed the dreadful spell taking shape above them.


    The swirling red clouds began to rain down blood, a grotesque deluge that spiraled upwards, defying gravity as it was drawn into the vortex forming over Baron Blood.


    However Ricky remained lost in his memories, the anguished cries still echoing in his mind as the scene unfolded.


    Shadows of his past wrapped around him like chains, while the crimson mist thickened, casting an ominous glow on his face.


    "YOU CANNOT LOSE YOURSELF TO THE SWORD; YOU ARE ITS WIELDER, AND YOU ARE THE ONE TO SWING ITS MIGHTY BLADE!" Alexander cried, his voice a beacon of urgency amid the chaos. He knew that true mastery lay not in submission to the weapon but in the strength to control it.


    The whirlpool above Baron Blood roared with primal energy, its violent spirals distorting the air and commanding the elements around them.


    The atmosphere thickened, crackling with malevolent power as lightning flashed in the distance, illuminating the scene in stark, surreal clarity.


    Ricky''s scream cut through the cacophony, a raw expression of agony as his mind became a battlefield, besieged by the tumultuous emotions of his ancestors and predecessors.


    Each memory, each echo of pain and rage surged through him like a tidal wave, threatening to drown him in despair and yet, amidst the chaos, a flicker of clarity fought to surface.


    His consciousness was abruptly transported to a dark, oppressive room, the air thick with a suffocating silence.


    He stood atop a pool of black sludge, its viscous surface reflecting distorted shadows that twisted like tendrils around him.


    The smell was acrid, and the ground seemed to pulse with a malevolent energy, urging him to lose himself in its depths.


    Before him, a twisted reflection of himself stood, wearing a mocking grin that sent a chill down his spine.


    Yet, it wasn''t truly him.


    "Ah, if it isn''t my new wielder, Ricky Luciano~" The figure before him was a twisted mirror image of himself, warped by the influence of the Ebony Blade.


    Dark, sinister energy radiated from the reflection, its presence suffocating the very air around them.


    Black sludge oozed from its body, pooling into the dark abyss beneath them, thickening the oppressive atmosphere.


    The headache pulsed around Ricky''s mind, an insistent throb that threatened to drown him in darkness.


    He pushed against the weight of despair, trying to step forward, but the sludge gripped him like a vice, cold and unyielding.


    "Let me guess, you''re the Ebony Blade," Ricky huffed out, a frown etched across his face as he fought against the mental tendrils wrapping around his mind as the presence of the sword slithered through his thoughts like a serpent.


    "So it seems that you aren''t that big of an idiot everyone preaches you to be~" The Ebony Blade hissed, its voice dripping with mocking amusement as it circled around Ricky like a predatory shadow.


    "Why can''t you be a good little sword and stop making things so f*cking difficult." Ricky''s vision blurred as he struggled to regain his bearings, the oppressive darkness pressing in on him like a heavy shroud as the once-familiar room around him twisted and distorted.


    "Did you think that I''d let you wield me without a proper approval-"


    "But the Vatican-"


    "ARE FOOLS!" The Ebony Blade screamed, the room shaking from his frustration.


    Ricky''s knees hit the cold, slimy surface, and a wave of exhaustion washed over him, but despite the fatigue, he couldn''t suppress the smile that crept onto his face.


    The sight of the Ebony Blade''s annoyance at his mere existence, when it was in itself a twisted reflection of his own torment, provided a sliver of satisfaction in this dark realm.


    "Well, it depends~" The Ebony Blade replied, its expression twisting into a mocking smile.


    "Have you ever wondered why I allow Percival''s descendants to wield me?" The Ebony Blade asked, its tone dripping with intrigue as Ricky rolled his eyes in response.


    "I don''t know, do you have some sort of crush on him?" Ricky sighed, his patience wearing thin, but the blade laughed in response.


    "You could say that. However, it''s more than just admiration; there''s something about your bloodline that enables your family to chain me to your line." The Ebony Blade circled around Ricky, its presence both unnerving and compelling.


    "Percival, that fool, somehow ingrained his ability to wield me within his blood, which was then passed down to his son, and subsequently to his descendants." The Ebony Blade continued, halting a short distance away from him.


    Its tone was a mix of amusement and disdain, as if recalling the legacy of the family was both a point of pride and annoyance.


    "It started with good intentions, using the idea of enduring my thirst to wield me for the goodness of the world." The Ebony Blade''s smile twisted further, its hissing voice growing more sinister as Ricky realized where this was headed.


    "Let me guess: they all failed?" Ricky''s face was almost ghostly, huffing out shallow breaths yet the skepticism was still etched onto his face as the blade nodded in affirmation.


    "Their original intentions of chivalry, the dream of making a difference in this rancid world, were consumed by my thirst, all while they deceived themselves into thinking they had not changed." The Ebony Blade loomed before Ricky, their eyes locking in a shared reflection of darkness.


    "Now, for you, Ricky Luciano, what are your intentions of chivalry that compel you to wield my being-"


    "I don''t have any." Ricky''s voice was flat, the truth of his selfish desires laid bare.


    "You cannot be serious?" The Ebony Blade asked, laughter echoing in its tone, as if it couldn''t believe what it had just heard.


    "I don''t care about living my life as a good person or doing the right thing at every turn." Ricky declared out weakly, unflinching in his honesty with the blade he sought to wield.


    "I live my life for me, my goals, my desires, and I couldn''t care less if others label me as selfish, as long as they don''t try to disrupt my way of life." Ricky patted his chest, irritation bubbling beneath the surface at the blade''s grip on him, as if it were forcing him to justify his very existence.


    "If I happen to do the right thing out of my own selfishness, then fine, whatever. But I''m not going to stand here and be lectured by some f*cking sword that has a hard-on for my family''s chivalry," Ricky shot back, jabbing a finger at the Ebony Blade''s chest as he had far bigger things occupying his mind than seeking approval from a sentient weapon.


    "You want to know what my intentions are? Well, they''re whatever the f*ck I want them to be. There''s no such thing as good or bad, just decisions that get judged by others!" Ricky ranted, diving deeper into his truth as the sword simply smiled at him, unfazed.


    "NOW ARE YOU JUST GOING TO SIT THERE AND JUDGE ME, OR ARE WE GOING TO SLASH A VAMPIRE?" Ricky yelled, summoning the last of his strength, a surge of anxiety gripping him as he feared it might already be too late.


    The blade merely smiled at the use of ''we,'' an unsettling glint dancing in its dark essence.


    "We shall."


    *GASP*


    " YOUNG RICKY!" Alexander tugged at his cheek, the red of Ricky''s eyes fading into green as he looked up, swallowing hard.


    "ARGH!" Ricky''s eyes flared with crackling red energy, the same energy that threatened to tear him apart.


    Alexander exhaled, a breath of relief escaping him as they both stared at the chaos wrought by Baron Blood.


    Ricky''s gaze finally lifted to the cataclysmic storm of blood engulfing the skies, a terrifying spectacle that seemed to blot out the heavens themselves.


    Razor-sharp droplets spiraled within the fingertips of Baron Blood, slicing through anything they touched as they coalesced into a towering whirlpool unlike anything Ricky had ever witnessed.


    What appeared to be a massive blob of blood was alive with waves of glimmering droplets, each poised to wreak havoc.


    Baron Blood smirked, fully aware that Ricky could reflect his attacks, but how long could he maintain that defense?


    Furthermore, could he even reflect what he could not perceive?


    If Baron Blood''s droplets moved fast enough, could Ricky still manage to redirect them?


    The vampire intended to test that limit, preparing a massive spell capable of both defense and offense, aiming to gradually whittle down Ricky''s strength before delivering the final blow.


    As Ricky stared at the towering display of strength, a maddening fury swirled within him, threatening to consume his very essence once more.


    The intoxicating allure of that overwhelming power beckoned, whispering promises of domination and retribution.


    Ricky knew that if he allowed himself to lose control, everything could be his for the taking as his eyes began to hollow.


    "Young Ricky." Alexander''s steady and calm voice resounded amidst the rippling energies threatening to collide.


    The sound cut through the chaos like a beacon, grounding Ricky in the tempest of his emotions.


    "Remember that there is nothing impossible to him who tries. This power is but a tool; it does not define you." Alexander remained silent after these words, recognizing that this was a path Ricky needed to walk alone.


    "YOU FOOL! DO YOU THINK I HAVEN''T NOTICED THAT YOU CAN ONLY REFLECT WHAT YOU CAN PERCEIVE?" Baron Blood bellowed, spreading his arms wide. The swirling whirlpool above began to thin out, transforming the already small droplets into microscopic shards that glimmered ominously in the dim light.


    Eldritch flames erupted from the gauntlets encasing Ricky''s hands, a holy aura wrapping around them as his eyes glowed a fierce red, yet the clarity in his pupils betrayed the berserk state.


    Baron Blood''s laughter echoed, a cruel melody mocking Ricky''s desperate efforts.


    However in this moment, there was no quip, no insult; Ricky merely fixed his gaze on the hovering vampire above, feeling the weight of the moment.


    His hands tightened around the handle of the blade, a steadfast resolve coursing through him.


    "I WILL CRUSH YOU LIKE THE PEST YOU ARE! FOR MY MASTER! FOR OUR DOMINANCE OVER YOU MERE BLOOD BAGS!" Baron Blood let out a thunderous roar, he hurled his arms forward, unleashing a torrent of deadly droplets toward Ricky, who stood defiantly amidst the wrecked moving train, heart racing and instincts screaming for survival.


    In that moment, Ricky stood alone, devoid of any tools to manipulate time or shield himself, with only the Ebony Blade gripped tightly in his hands. The skies opened up, unleashing a barrage of razor-sharp droplets that hurtled toward him with deadly speed, each one aimed with ruthless precision.


    With a fierce determination, Ricky raised the sword, it''s dark blade gleaming ominously in the chaos.


    Within the sword, the Ebony Blade loomed, extending its slimy, black sludge of a hand, fingertips shimmering with a sickly light, as if eager to draw him into its malevolent influence.


    The air crackled with tension, the stage set for an explosive confrontation as Ricky prepared to face the onslaught head-on.


    "Only this once, will I lend my help for free."


    Then, without a moment''s hesitation, Ricky''s eyes flared with crimson energy as the raw power of the Ebony Blade surged through him, igniting every nerve in his body. With an instinctive grace, he raised the sword in a magnificent arc that caught Alexander''s eye, glimmering with a fierce beauty that transcended the chaos surrounding them.


    As the blood droplets descended, poised to pierce and obliterate him from every direction, Ricky stood resolute, ready to unleash the blade''s might.


    The air around him pulsed with energy, and he felt the weight of his lineage and the strength of his own resolve guiding his every move rather than the inherent chivalry.


    This was his moment,his time to shine against the encroaching darkness.


    His time to swing his sword.


    The Ebony Blade sliced through the air with a delicate grace, embodying the elegance of the world even as it heralded unspeakable destruction.


    Its movements were fluid and mesmerizing, yet each arc carried an undercurrent of dread, as if the very essence of beauty was tainted by the annihilation it could unleash.


    Red blips of electricity crackled in the air, gathering intensity as Ricky completed his swing.


    *THOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM*


    Then, in an instant, a sonic boom erupted, sending a shockwave of crimson lightning cascading outward, illuminating the surroundings with an explosive brilliance.


    Every object held together by the spell was cleaved in two by the vibrant red electricity, severed time and time again.


    The blood droplets, once swirling with malevolent energy, disintegrated into nothingness under the weight of Ricky''s heaven-defying power, obliterating the spell as if it had never existed.


    Baron Blood stared in horror as his spells unraveled before the true might of the blade that had haunted the Black Knight''s enemies for centuries.


    However, this was the first time he had ever witnessed its power to cut through anything.


    "How?" Baron Blood gasped, his defenses already raised, but his body was jerked back in an ugly manner as if struck by an unseen force.


    Then, in the blink of an eye, every ounce of the Ebony Blade''s power dissipated, leaving only Ricky''s figure standing amid the chaos.


    The strain of wielding such immense energy pulled at every reserve within him, draining his stamina and magic until he collapsed to his knees, gasping for breath as exhaustion weighed heavily on his body and mind.


    Holding himself up with the blade, the train barely carried onto the other half of the bridge that wasn''t destroyed.


    The aftermath left a gaping hole in the bridge they had been traveling on, a testament to the chaos unleashed moments before. Baron Blood hovered in the air, slowly descending to the other side, his mind still reeling from the events that had just transpired.


    Both he and Ricky locked eyes across the chasm, each one drained of their strength yet still standing, their wills unyielding.


    Baron Blood finally set his feet down on the far side of the bridge, his gaze fixed on the retreating train that carried Ricky away.


    Baron Blood squinted, observing the train holding Ricky thundered down the tracks, painfully aware that he lacked the strength to leap or fly across the gaping chasm left by their clash.


    However, despite the duel appearing to end in a tie, it was evident that Ricky was in far worse shape, a truth both combatants understood all too well.


    Baron Blood, with his keen instincts, recognized the danger of overextending himself; he could feel the fatigue creeping into his limbs.


    He knew that if he pushed himself too hard, he would find his own condition mirroring Ricky''s by the time they crossed paths again.


    Caution tempered his hunger for victory as he weighed his next move, acutely aware of the stakes that lay ahead.


    Baron Blood watched as Ricky staggered away, a fierce vow forming in his mind: the next time they met, he would skin him alive and never again underestimate this blood bag.


    As Ricky passed the clearing, his strength finally gave out, and he collapsed, unable to keep himself on his feet any longer.


    "Young Ricky-"


    Ricky''s face slapped into the ground, his consciousness fading as the world around him blurred into nothingness.


    His eyelids fluttered shut, surrendering to the weight of exhaustion, and he slipped into a deep, oblivious sleep, leaving behind the chaos of the battle and the looming threat of Baron Blood.


    ''F*cking vampires.''

 Chapter 82 - 81: Glimpse Into The Luciano Family Name

    Chapter 82: Chapter 81: Glimpse Into The Luciano Family Name


    "YOU TRAITORS, I''LL KILL YOU!" Sheriff Wyatt, donned in his black knight attire, screamed, his sanity fully consumed by the cursed blade in his grasp.


    His eyes blazed with a frenzied red as the corruption spread through him, the ebony blade vibrating within his hands at the sheer delight of the scene progressing into this downward spiral of a conflict.


    "Sheriff Wyatt, you''ve violated the rules set by the High Table," The man in charge spoke calmly, though his gaze held steady on the sheriff''s bloodlust.


    "Killing on Continental grounds is unforgivable-"


    "SHE HAD TO DIE! THEY ALL NEED TO DIE!" Wyatt screeched, his voice cracking under the weight of madness.


    He gripped the blade tighter, trembling with murderous intent as the figures surrounding him exchanged wary glances.


    The man who spoke earlier now raised his arms, the ten bands wrapped around them glowing with mystic energy, preparing for the inevitable clash.


    "I''LL KILL YOU ALL!"


    *GASP*


    "GOD F*CKING DAMMIT!" Ricky roared as another vision hit him like a sledgehammer, shaking his head violently as the haze cleared.


    Ricky looked down, realizing the cursed sword was still in his hands and with a scoff of disgust, he flung it to the side, the clang of metal echoing through the forest.


    "Ricky, calm down, you''re safe." Chores hurried to Ricky''s side, his leg now fully restored thanks to the healing sanctuary''s potent healing magic.


    "Well that''s just great, Chores! I''m glad that I''m safe after getting my ass kicked by a f*cking vampire, only to be skull f*cked by a goddamn sword!" Ricky spat out the words, his hysteria mounting as he vented his fury at Chores, his closest outlet for frustration.


    Chores opened his mouth to reply but paused, thinking better of it as after everything Ricky had just been through, it seemed wiser to let him cool down.


    Sitting up, Ricky rubbed his face, the dull throb in his head matching the soreness in his body.


    His limbs felt heavy from the strain he''d pushed himself through, and he stared blankly ahead, still trying to piece together the whirlwind of events.


    "Don''t worry young Ricky, the big bad vampire won''t hurt you any longer." Alexander''s voice came from the side, dripping with sarcasm as his tone was clearly meant to taunt, and it worked.


    "It''s not-"


    *SIGH*


    "First of all, Alexander, go f*ck yourself. Second, I''m only pissed off because this goddamn sword keeps getting into my head, and it''s driving me insane, literally." Ricky glanced around, still a little disoriented, and flicked Alexander off his shoulder as Chores quickly caught the gerbil before he could fall to the ground.


    "A forest?" Ricky muttered, his eyes scanning the dense trees surrounding him, the absence of city life immediately confusing him.


    "I thought it wise to hop off the train instead of arriving at the station with the train in shambles," Chores revealed, knowing that they would be held responsible or questioned if they arrived at their intended destination still in the wrecked train.


    *Sigh*


    Ricky dropped to the ground with a heavy thud, his legs giving way as the weight of exhaustion hit him.


    His helmet slid off, parting effortlessly as he ran his fingers through his disheveled black hair, tugging in frustration.


    "I just wanted to get drunk and f*ck a busty Italian~" Ricky groaned, his voice tinged with frustration and exhaustion.


    "But now I have to deal with a mind-f*cking sword, ugly vampires, and what''s worse is that I''m sober on my vacation!" Ricky shouted, the weight of his frustration pouring out with each word.


    His previous buzz had evaporated, leaving him irritable and raw as Chores sighed, clearly trying to find a way to ease the tension, and then reached into his back pocket.


    "Here, I swiped this from the debris when I woke up." Chores said, pulling out a bottle of Irish cream and handing it to Ricky.


    "Irish cream, really-"


    "I mean, if you don''t want it-"


    "NO!" Ricky yelled out in excitement, snatching the bottle from Chores'' hands and cradling it like a prized possession, his fingers gently stroking the label as if it were made of gold.


    In his mind, he had been managing his impulses better lately, making strides in self-control, and he was determined to treat this vacation as the well-deserved break he craved.


    As Ricky downed the bottle, Alexander observed him with a mixture of concern and pride.


    Despite the immense anguish in his heart, a smile crept onto his lips, knowing that his decision to let Ricky embrace this moment of indulgence was the right one.


    He had witnessed the untamed power displayed in their earlier confrontation, and he understood the toll it had taken on the young man.


    For the first time in a while, Alexander felt like Ricky was firmly moving in the right direction, earning not just respect, but a sense of belonging in this chaotic world.


    Finally gaining Alexander''s approval.


    Alexander The Gerbil Favorability: 42¡ú83


    "Ah~" Ricky let out, leaning back and gazing at the Irish cream with surprised eyes before realizing the notification.


    "Whoa, you really like me, don''t you?" Ricky quipped, breaking the moment with a teasing smirk aimed at Alexander, whose smile quickly faltered into a frown.


    Alexander The Gerbil Favorability: 83¡ú76


    "Oh come on, it was a joke-"


    "Silence your attempts, for I am a sturdy wall in front of the face of lies." Alexander declared, crossing his small arms defiantly.


    "Hey Slick, about saving me earlier-"


    "Don''t mention it; that guy was a monster," Ricky waved his hand dismissively, knowing that Chores likely couldn''t have taken on Baron Blood and grateful that he hadn''t tried to intervene as it would have only made things harder for him.


    However that fact made Chores, who was standing nearby, visibly frustrated, clenching and unclenching his fists as he wrestled with his emotions.


    With a slow sigh, he finally relaxed, trying to dissipate the tension that had coiled tightly within him, a lingering sense of worthlessness washing over him in that moment.


    "And sorry for venting; you didn''t deserve that." Ricky added, taking a sip of the Irish cream as he stood up, brushing off his pants.


    "We should depart; the city is only about an hour away." Chores informed Ricky, who nodded, wiping his mouth and glancing back at the vibrating sword.


    Holding out his hand, the sword shot into his grasp, and he swiftly sheathed it, casting a sidelong glance at the shocked duo.


    "Oh, did I forget to mention I could do that? Pretty cool, right?" Ricky chuckled, striding past them while Chores and Alexander exchanged wide-eyed looks.


    "Pretty cool." They both echoed, nodding at each other before hurrying to catch up with Ricky.


    Meanwhile in Sicily,


    The streets bustled with activity, a stark contrast to the serene countryside as people hurried along ancient cobblestone paths, mingling with vendors hawking fresh produce and local delicacies.


    Amidst the everyday hustle, signs of economic disparity were evident, with well-dressed businessmen navigating past impoverished laborers in threadbare clothing.


    The air buzzed with conversations in Sicilian dialect, punctuated by the occasional call of street hawkers selling their wares.


    Children played in narrow alleyways, their laughter echoing against weathered stone buildings adorned with drying laundry and vibrant murals depicting scenes of local history and folklore.


    Above the bustling streets, the imposing presence of Fascist propaganda posters reminded residents of Mussolini''s rule, urging unity and loyalty to the regime.


    Despite this, whispers of discontent and defiance lingered among those who felt the weight of economic hardship and political oppression.


    In the shadows cast by medieval churches and Baroque palaces, the unseen influence of the Mafia loomed large in the open, its clandestine operations shaping local affairs and perpetuating a culture of secrecy and fear.


    As the sun dipped behind Mount Etna, casting an amber glow over the island, Sicily''s complex tapestry of tradition, struggle, and resilience continued to unfold against the backdrop of a changing world.


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    "Mr. Mancini, we know you''re in there!" A man in a fedora shouted, pounding on the door, flanked by a couple of men who looked equally determined.


    The door creaked open to reveal an elderly man, his thick mustache bristling like a lion''s mane, and his fierce glare cutting through the dim light of the hallway.


    "Protections due." The man declared, forcing the door wider and stepping into the suit shop with an air of arrogance, his friends snickering behind him like schoolboys.


    The bell above the door chimed a warning, but it was drowned out by the raucous laughter echoing off the walls, filling the space with an unsettling tension.


    "We already paid last week-"


    "Well, the Barbieri family has issued orders for an advance payment for next month." The mobster sneered, his smirk growing wider as he leaned casually against a nearby display of tailored suits as the old man''s jaw tightened, and he gritted his teeth.


    "Please, if you give me another day-"


    "How about you hold off until nightfall, you know, when the monsters come a-lurking?" The mobster''s sneer widened, his tone dripping with malice.


    The old man''s face went pale at the veiled threat, and he instinctively grabbed his arm as if seeking comfort, but there was none to be found.


    "I swear I''ll pay it-"


    "Listen, Mr. Mancini." The mobster loomed over the old man, who kept his eyes shut tight, trying to block out the looming threat.


    "I''m not asking; I''m telling. Got it?" The mobster''s voice boomed, and with a shove, he pushed the old man aside.


    "Pa!" Mr. Mancini''s son shouted, sprinting to his father''s side as he threw himself in front of the elder Mancini, positioning his body as a shield to protect his frail father.


    "Destroy the shop!" the mobster ordered, waving his fingers dismissively as if the command were nothing more than a casual suggestion as Mr. Mancini struggled to his feet, desperation etched across his face.


    "Y-YOU CAN''T-" Mr. Mancini cried out, his voice trembling with fear as he glanced at the works of art that adorned his shop, the only pieces of his life he took pride in.


    He struggled to rise, desperation fueling his movements, but was yanked back down by his son.


    "Pa, don''t!" His son urged, his grip firm on his father''s arm as he could see the anguish in his father''s eyes, the pain of impending destruction clawing at Mr. Mancini''s heart.


    *CRASH*


    Without hesitation, one of the men swung his arm, shattering the display window with a loud crash.


    Glass shards scattered across the floor like glittering confetti, and he lunged forward, ripping the fine Italian suit from its hanger.


    The fabric tore easily, and the sound of ripping silk filled the air, punctuating the brutality of the moment.


    Mr. Mancini''s heart sank as he watched his hard work and passion being reduced to mere scraps, feeling utterly powerless to stop it.


    "Pa, no! It ain''t worth your life." His son whispered urgently, trying to pull him back as Mr. Mancini''s eyes filled with tears.


    He stood frozen, helpless, as the men continued to rip apart his creations, each suit a testament to years of hard work and dedication.


    "You better figure out how to pay us by nightfall, or the creeps will come crawling." The leader warned, a sinister smirk playing on his lips.


    He gestured to his goons, who stepped over the remnants of the ruined suits, laughing as they followed him out of the shop.


    The door swung shut behind them, leaving Mr. Mancini and his son in a silence thick with despair, the remnants of their shattered dreams strewn about the floor.


    "What''s up with them?" Ricky asked, strolling down the street and taking the last sip of his Irish cream. As he glanced at the scene unfolding outside the shop, the destruction left in the wake of the men caught his attention.


    "Mafia." They both answered as they watched as the goons snickered away but chose not to intervene; it wasn''t their business.


    "Let''s hang back, let the air cool, and then-" Ricky began, intending to retreat from the scene when suddenly, the old man burst out of the shop, desperation written all over his face.


    "PA, NO-"


    "NO ENRICO, I''VE HAD ENOUGH!" Mr. Mancini exclaimed, shoving his son aside as he faced the men with unwavering resolve.


    "Oh, enough of what?" The mobster shot back, a mocking grin spreading across his face as he turned to confront the furious old man.


    "You''ve trampled on my passion and my livelihood, all because of my ties to Antonio!" Mr. Mancini declared, gesturing emphatically at the thugs who merely scoffed in response.


    "Because you chose the wrong side-"


    "I DID NOT!" Mr. Mancini proclaimed boldly, causing the nearby passersby to grow pale and hurriedly shuffle through doors to escape the unfolding scene.


    "What did you say?" The mobster raised his gaze to meet the old man''s defiance, a dangerous glint flickering in his eyes.


    "I SAID THAT I DON''T REGRET CHOOSING ANTONIO LUCIANO''S SIDE!" Mr. Mancini roared, his fierce proclamation ringing through the air.


    Ricky, who had been walking away, abruptly halted, his attention drawn back to the escalating confrontation.


    "F*ck~" Ricky cursed out a sigh, tossing the bottle aside as he turned back to face the scene.


    "Chores." Ricky called out, prompting Chores to put on his brass knuckles and nod in response.


    "I understand," Chores replied, squinting his eyes and cracking his fists in preparation for the impending fight.


    "YOU DARE-"


    "I DO! HE MAY HAVE LOST ALONG WITH THE OTHER EXILED FAMILIES, BUT YOU AND YOUR BOSS AREN''T EVEN A SMIDGE OF THE MAN HE WAS-"


    "YOU SHUT YOUR MOUTH!" The mobster roared, winding up his punch, ready to unleash it on the old man, who simply closed his eyes in defiance.


    *BAM*


    Mr. Mancini braced himself for the grueling pain he anticipated, but when he opened his eyes, confusion washed over him as he found himself staring at the back of the Black Knight, Ricky.


    "W-WHO THE F*CK ARE YOU-"


    *BAM*


    *COUGH*


    Ricky didn''t bother with words; he launched a powerful punch directly into the man''s throat as the mobster collapsed to his knees, gasping in agony as he clutched his shattered esophagus.


    "I have business with this man so back off, or I''ll skin you and make some disgusting human leather jacket." Ricky declared the first threat that came to his head but frowned at how psychotic it sounded, brandishing the cross with a commanding presence.


    The sheer intensity of his words sent a chill through the air, causing the men to freeze, their eyes widening in shock as they instinctively took a step back.


    "Is he-"


    "I heard whispers, but to think the Black Knight''s here." The mobsters murmured among themselves, fear etched across their faces, rendering them unable to defy him.


    "W-We apologize, oh Holy Black Knight." One of the grunts stammered, bowing as he reached for his fallen comrade.


    The others quickly scrambled away, eager to distance themselves from the scene.


    "T-T-T-Thank you, Holy Black Knight! You have my deepest gratitude!" Enrico exclaimed, bowing deeply to Ricky, while Mr. Mancini, his expression a mixture of reverence and relief, removed his hat in acknowledgment.


    "Thank you," Mr. Mancini said, his voice steady, as he looked at Ricky with newfound respect.


    "Can we go inside and talk?" Ricky asked, his tone surprisingly respectful, which took Mr. Mancini off guard.


    A smile crept across the old man''s face, touched by the deference the Black Knight was showing him, a marked contrast to the horrid treatment he received on a daily basis.


    "Yes, it would be my honor to house the Black Knight."


    Mr. Mancini led Ricky to the back of the shop and through the wreckage of the confrontation from before as Enrico hurried off to fetch some tea, leaving the two alone for a moment.


    Meanwhile, Chores squeezed into a small chair, his large frame awkwardly filling the space, making it creak under the weight.


    He shifted uncomfortably, casting glances around the room as he tried to adjust to the tight fit, all the while keeping a watchful eye on Ricky and Mr. Mancini.


    "Mr. Mancini-"


    "Holy Black Knight, there''s no need for formalities with my lowly figure. Just call me Rotolo," Rotolo said with a gracious tone, bowing his head slightly and Ricky nodded, a small smile creeping onto his lips as he began to undo his helmet.


    "Then let me introduce myself. I''m Ricky Luciano, but everyone calls me Slick. You can call me whatever you like." Ricky said, flashing a toothy smile and taking off his black knight helmet, slicking his hair back.


    Rotolo froze, the shock of Ricky''s words leaving him momentarily breathless as the realization of who stood before him sank in, and he blinked, struggling to process the significance of this encounter.


    "C-Come again?" Rotolo stammered, his jaw dropping in disbelief.


    The name that fell from Ricky''s lips was one he never expected to hear again, sending waves of shock coursing through him.


    "I''m Ricky Luciano, my pops is Lucky Luciano or Cha-"


    "Charles Luciano," Rotolo finally managed to say, his voice quivering with a mix of surprise and nostalgia as Ricky chuckled, glancing around the room.


    "Well, he goes by Lucky now but I guess that''s beside the point." Ricky leaned back in the chair, shaking his head at the state of the store.


    Rotolo opened his mouth to speak, but the wave of emotion caught in his throat, making it hard to articulate his thoughts.


    He paused, blinking back tears as he took a moment to collect himself, the memories flooding back, bittersweet and heavy though a smile hung on his face.


    "He really survived, atta boy." Rotolo said, wiping his eyes as the emotion washed over him, a mix of relief and nostalgia swirling in his chest.


    "Do you have anything to drink around here?" Ricky scratched his chin, his casual demeanor contrasting with the gravity of the moment.


    Rotolo smiled, the corners of his mouth lifting as he felt a sense of camaraderie blooming.


    He walked to his desk and retrieved an old bottle of wine, dust clinging to its surface, a relic from better days.


    With a flourish, he presented it to Ricky, who took it with a grin and in one smooth motion, Ricky tore off the cork, the sound echoing in the small room, a herald of good times to come.


    "So, how do you know my grandpops?" Ricky asked, taking a generous swing from the bottle, his eyes widening at the rich, complex flavors that danced on his palate.


    "Woah," he exclaimed, pulling the bottle closer for a better look. The label read 1802, a rare vintage that spoke of history and sophistication.


    "I''m thankful to call the man who saved my life, Antonio Luciano, my friend." Rotolo said, a warm smile breaking through his otherwise serious demeanor as he settled back down across from Ricky.


    "Though I doubt Lucky has touched much on the subject since it was a very dark time." Rotolo said, his fists clenching involuntarily as he recalled the past and Ricky frowned at the weight of his words.


    Lucky had never spoken much about his father, leaving Ricky with only fragments of information.


    All he knew was that Lucky''s father had been a gangster from Sicily, someone who had groomed him to take over the family mantle.


    But then, in a twist of fate, Lucky had suddenly emigrated to America and joined the notorious Five Points Gang.


    Ricky had pressed for details, but Lucky always deflected, his discomfort evident whenever the topic arose.


    "I''ve asked my pops about him countless times, but he always goes cold on me." Ricky said with a sigh until a thought sparking in his mind.


    "Now that you mention it, a lot of the families emigrated around the same time." Ricky recalled how Profaci had come with Maria when she was just three years old, a few years after Lucky had arrived in New York.


    "It''s-It''s a long story, Slick." Rotolo replied, using Ricky''s nickname out of respect, aware of the tradition that bound them.


    "Well, I''ve got this bottle of wine to warm me up, so let me hear why my pops never talks about what happened," Ricky said, gesturing to the bottle as he spread his arms wide.


    His eagerness was palpable, a mix of anticipation and determination to unravel the tangled threads of his family''s past.


    *Sigh*


    "It all started after world war 1-"


    *Rotolo FIRST PERSON POINT OF VIEW*


    The war hit us all hard and afterwards, Italy was grappling with economic hardships, soaring inflation, rampant unemployment, and mass public outcry.


    It was during this tumultuous time that the people cried out for change, and Mussolini emerged, his powerful rhetoric captivating even me.


    He presented himself as the embodiment of the nation''s destiny, using fascist symbols and rituals to galvanize support.


    The man was a former socialist who had become disillusioned with that ideology, ultimately crafting a new political philosophy: fascism.


    He emphasized nationalism, authoritarianism, and the restoration of Italy''s past glory, longing that resonated deeply with the populace.


    People found themselves compelled to follow him into the streets, marching on Rome and demanding that King Victor Emmanuel III appoint Mussolini as prime minister.


    They believed he could restore order and combat the rising tide of socialist movements and strikes.


    Fearing a potential civil war and under pressure from conservative elites, King Victor Emmanuel III appointed Mussolini as prime minister and this marked the beginning of Mussolini''s consolidation of power.


    The media and his supporters would later claim that he garnered the backing of industrialists, landowners, and conservative factions who were increasingly wary of socialist and communist movements.


    But the real power was the one within the hands of the mafia.


    Mussolini enticed families with lucrative deals, offering them free rein over their activities in exchange for support and enforcement of his ideals.


    However, those who accepted these terms soon found themselves treated like street dogs by the government.


    Many other families rejected the notion of being leashed, as most mafias had formed precisely to avoid such control, seeing it as a betrayal of their fundamental principles.


    These disagreements led to a bitter civil war, dividing those who supported Mussolini''s consolidation of power and those who refused to be controlled.


    The conflict was bloody, with the streets littered with the bodies of young Italian men, who sought glory but instead became little more than cannon fodder in a struggle that exploited their aspirations.


    Your grandfather, Antonio Luciano, stood firmly against becoming a henchman for Mussolini, as no boss wants to bow to another.


    The factions were evenly matched; Mussolini couldn''t directly interfere in the conflicts, his authority too tenuous to risk open confrontation.


    It was then that the unholy monsters of the night emerged, striking a deal that would solidify Mussolini''s regime and change the course of history.


    They were led by a man known only as Verdelet, a seemingly ordinary man on the outside, but a feral beast within.


    This man-no, this monster, commanded a horde of foul creatures that slaughtered the opposition, reveling in the thrill of their victims'' screams.


    I remember it as if it were yesterday, those creatures crawling into the streets, ripping the skin from their prey, dismembering arms and legs, all while their victims were still alive, grinning with delight.


    Antonio witnessed the horror unfolding around him and unlike some other families, he recognized that there was no hope left in Sicily.


    In a desperate bid to escape with his family, he sought a way out, but from my knowledge, none of them survived.


    Once the last of the opposition fell to that monster, the Bruno, Greco, and Inzerillo families absorbed the remnants of the fallen families'' businesses, becoming the behemoths that fatefully served as the hounds of the new fascist regime.


    Over the next decade, Mussolini centralized power, exerting control over the media and instituting corporatist economic policies.


    He embarked on imperialist ventures to bolster his regime''s popularity and prestige, projecting an image of strength while suppressing dissent.


    *Rotolo FIRST PERSON POINT OF VIEW END*


    "Life has only been content for those who supported Mussolini, but the others have had to pay the price with endless torture." Rotolo then glanced at Ricky, who drained the last drop of wine.


    "Who killed Antonio?" Ricky asked, his tone flat and focused, showing no interest in anything but the answer as Rotolo shook his head, the weight of the past evident in his expression.


    "Slick-"


    "Was it that Verdelet guy?" Ricky asked, his voice laced with urgency but Rotolo shook his head, a grim look crossing his face.


    "No, the three families led a surprise attack and slaughtered the last of the Antiono''s guys-"


    "Good, makes my life easier." Ricky let out a sigh of relief, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders at the thought of not having to confront that godforsaken vampire.


    Ricky then pulled out his storage key, walking into the back room for a moment and when he emerged, he had a couple of thousand dollars in hand.


    "Here." Ricky tossed the money onto the table, watching as Rotolo''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    The shock was palpable on Rotolo''s face as he struggled to comprehend the unexpected generosity.


    "Take this; it''s my signature, which you''ll need to set up shop in Luciano territory. Use the money to smuggle into New York." Ricky then stood up, glancing at Chores, who nodded in understanding before walking outside.


    "This is-"


    "Listen, Rotolo, I know this shop is your life and all, but you''re set up in enemy territory that doesn''t value your abilities," Ricky lectured, his voice firm but respectful. Rotolo remained silent, absorbing Ricky''s words.


    "Chores is going to pack up all your stuff, so you can''t say no." Ricky continued, shaking his head with a knowing sigh.


    "And before you say anything I get it; old men like you can be stubborn, but this isn''t just about pride. It''s about survival." Ricky waved his hand, knowing Rotolo would say something about being an inconvenience for him however he didn''t care.


    "But why?" Rotolo asked, confusion etching his features as he knew he didn''t owe anything to Ricky, yet the young man''s conviction was undeniable.


    Ricky smirked, a playful glint in his eyes as he recalled something Lucky had always told him.


    "A Luciano never forgets their own." Ricky laughed, feeling like his pops as he watched Rotolo''s eyes widen in surprise.


    A distant memory flickered in Rotolo''s mind, taking him back to his childhood.


    He remembered a time when he was just a boy, gazing up at a young boy who seemed to radiate confidence and charm as the boy''s laughter echoed through the air, filled with the carefree spirit of youth.


    "A-Antonio, why did you do that? You''ll get in trouble!" A child version of Rotolo exclaimed, glancing nervously at the beaten kids scattered on the ground.


    Antonio laughed heartily, his spirit undeterred by the scuffles he had just been through as his lip was busted, his left eye swollen shut, and his clothes were torn, yet he stood tall, his chest puffed out in pride.


    "Other than the reason that you''re my pal? It''s cause a Luciano never forgets their own."


    *Sniff*


    The aged man sniffed, his emotions welling up as he walked over to Ricky and pulled him into a tight embrace. Ricky was taken aback, momentarily frozen in surprise.


    "You''re a good kid, Lucky raised you well." Rotolo said, pride shining in his eyes as he patted Ricky''s back.


    Although he felt a rush of discomfort, Ricky bit the bullet and reciprocated, patting Rotolo''s back awkwardly.


    "One day, when you''re done serving our lord, come find me, and I''ll make you the finest Italian suit that''ll make all the mobsters jealous," Rotolo said with a warm smile and Ricky couldn''t help but grin at the thought, knowing he''d hold him to that promise.


    "You better," Ricky laughed, his spirits lifted by the exchange as Rotolo chuckled heartily in response, the weight of the past momentarily lightened.


    "Hey Rotolo, could you also keep it secret that I''m the Black Knight, you can tell my pop''s but anyone else-"


    "Slick, I''ll take it to the grave." Rotolo declared, his voice firm despite his frail appearance.


    He nodded at Ricky, who could see the resolve in the old man''s eyes which was a testament to his strength and loyalty towards his grandfather.


    The day slowly descended into night as Chores, Ricky, and Alexander waited in the broken shop, the fading light casting long shadows across the cluttered floor.


    "You got any threes?" Ricky asked, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.


    Alexander''s eyes widened in panic, and before he could muster a defense, he collapsed to his little gerbil knees, hands clutching the edge of the table for support.


    Ricky chuckled as he plucked the card from Alexander''s trembling fingers as the ring was snugly wrapped around the gerbil''s waist.


    Chores watched with a frown, his brow furrowed as he struggled with the feeling of guilt that tugged at him.


    He didn''t enjoy bullying Alexander like this, but he also knew that the gerbil would be furious if he let him win and relented.


    "Do you have any two-no, sevens?" Alexander asked, only for Chores to close his eyes with a disheartened expression and shake his head.


    "Go Fish."


    It was disheartening, but on the next turn, Chores claimed his two, causing Alexander to collapse onto his little paws.


    "H-How?" Alexander exclaimed, his voice tinged with disbelief as Ricky snatched his seven in the following round.


    "Why have the sisters of fate woven this cruel reality before me?" Alexander lamented, unable to contain his despair.


    *Crack*


    *Crack*


    *Crack*


    The sound of Italian leather crunching on shards of glass echoed through the room, drawing the attention of the three as Ricky deftly removed the ring from Alexander''s body.


    "It seems the words of those gangsters were right." A calm voice observed from the shadows, causing Ricky to squint and focus.


    At first glance, the man didn''t strike an imposing figure as he wore a blue plaid suit, complemented by a crisp white undershirt and a neatly tied blue tie, his demeanor almost casual amidst the tension in the air.


    His bald head and absence of eyebrows stood out, and while his fangs were unremarkable and hardly protruded, they hinted at something darker.


    What unmistakably marked him as a vampire were his piercing red eyes, which glinted with a predatory intensity, betraying his demeanor with a supernatural nature beneath an otherwise mundane facade.


    In that gaze, there wasn''t a sliver of arrogance or disgust; instead, it held a deep curiosity, an intense desire to deduce and understand who these three beings truly were.


    "Greetings, I am Verdelet."


    Author''s Note: The fic just hit 10k collections which is crazy and a little hard to register since I really didn''t think a lot of people would resonate with my writing when I first started out but I''m glad you all enjoy it.

 Chapter 83 - 82: The True Successor Of Varnae

    Chapter 83: Chapter 82: The True Successor Of Varnae


    "May I take a seat?" Verdelet asked politely, his gaze shifting towards a chair nearby as Ricky glanced at him, a bit perplexed.


    From his lackluster experience with vampires, he was used to being insulted, called a blood bag, or attacked outright.


    But instead of hostility, Verdelet offered a warm smile, almost as if welcoming them to Sicily.


    "Sure." Ricky shrugged, motioning to the chair as Verdelet nodded in gratitude and calmly pulled it over, taking a seat.


    "We''ll start over." Ricky announced, not bothering to ask the others as he began reshuffling the cards as a breath of hope seemed to fill Alexander, his posture perking up.


    "I''m sure you know who I am." Ricky said in a passing tone, dealing the cards while Verdelet chuckled, his amused grin spreading even deeper across his face.


    "Yes, I know the postion of the Black Knight all too well, and yet here I am, still surprised in my old age." Verdelet picked up his cards, his eyes gleaming with intrigue.


    "I''m guessing my ancestors tried to kill you on sight." Ricky said, casually taking Alexander''s six of clubs, causing the gerbil to crumple in defeat once again.


    "You''d be correct," Verdelet replied, his tone light yet serious. He noticed Alexander''s dramatic reaction, then shifted focus back to the game.


    "Got any Jacks?" Verdelet asked, only to be told to go fish.


    Verdelet calmly drew from the pile, pulling another Jack with a slight smile before placing the pair before all of them.


    Laying the pair down, they went round while they figured out how to more or less communicate between them until it was Ricky''s turn once more.


    "Verdelet, can I be honest with you and just cut past this tense atmosphere of our first confrontation?" Ricky suddenly looked up from his cards, his tone more direct since he really didn''t want to play metaphorical word games.


    "Please do."


    "I don''t have any problems with you. Sure, the other Black Knights might have hated your guts or wanted to outright spill them, but I don''t give three f*cks about anything that doesn''t affect me or the people I care about." Ricky admitted, acknowledging that while Verdelet probably wasn''t a good person, he hadn''t done anything to warrant Ricky''s hostility so in his mind, it didn''t involve him.


    "Well, this is a first," Veredelt said, genuinely taken aback as he actually had to regain himself from Ricky''s shocking announcement.


    He had known seven iterations of the Black Knight personally, and not a single one had ever spared him a single word as all of them were eager to kill him for the sake of humanity.


    "I don''t think I''ve ever talked to a Black Knight this long, unless we were in the middle of a fight that is." Verdelet joked with a smile, watching as Chores took one of his queens in their game as he glanced up at Ricky, incredibly creeped out by the unusual situation.


    "Then, if we have no issues with each other, may I inquire why you''ve come to my nesting?" Verdelet asked, his curiosity piqued, wondering why this Black Knight was here if it wasn''t for his head.


    "Turns out, I''ve got bad blood with some of the mobsters in the area." Ricky shrugged with a sigh, glancing at Verdelet, who chuckled in response, casually stealing a nine of hearts from Alexander''s hand.


    "Ah, I see." Verdelet said, nodding as Chores snatched one of his three''s as the giant was on the edge of his seat the entire time, clearly distracted by everything going on around them rather than focusing on the game.


    "Is that a problem?" Ricky asked, his eyes momentarily squinting but Verdelet simply shook his head, surprised that he was facing no conflict at all.


    "Although they are the other side of the ''coin'' that the fool Mussolini always preaches about, human organizations rise and fall too quickly for me to keep track of. Another group or family, or whatever they choose to call themselves, will always take their place," Verdelet explained, his perspective shaped by years of watching the cycle unfold.


    He was far too old to care about the fleeting power struggles that typically lasted only a couple of decades within the human world.


    "I''ve found in my lifetime that forming attachments to human organizations is nothing more than a futile effort." Verdelet said, heaving a deep sigh as he reflected on how many situations he''d been dragged into because of those pointless endeavors.


    "But it is good that I''ve met a reasonable Black Knight, considering how troublesome it can be to deal with that blade of yours." Verdelet pointed his well-groomed fingers at the weapon, his red eyes narrowing slightly with disdain as memories swirled in his mind, tainted by the blade''s presence.


    "You''re telling me. Usually, at this point, I''m being called a blood bag, cattle, or something similar while being attacked by whatever vampire is nearby, like that weird-looking Baron Blood." Ricky thought aloud, annoyance creeping into his voice as he was honestly tired of the repetitive cycle: whenever a vampire saw his Black Knight attire, they immediately tried to kill him which was to be expected given the history of the postion.


    "Who?" Verdelet froze, the familiar name sending a jolt through him as his eyes narrowed with intensity.


    "He''s like Dracula''s minion and Baron Blood is the name that''s stuck to that big forehead of his." Ricky explained, effortlessly prying a queen from Alexander''s tight grip.


    "....." Verdelet fell silent, stewing in his own hatred before letting out a deep breath.


    "Any twos?" Verdelet asked Ricky, who shook his head, noticing the palpable animosity in old vampires demeanor.


    "If you''re wondering, I''m not really buddy buddy with Dracula at the moment. In fact, he''s trying to rip out my heart and probably eat it." Ricky explained, interpreting Verdelet''s clear distaste for Baron Blood as a reflection of his feelings toward Dracula.


    "I apologize for my sudden change in demeanor; my hatred for that false successor runs deep, spanning thousands of years." Verdelet explained as Ricky raised an eyebrow, pondering for a moment before snapping his fingers.


    "Varnae, right?" Ricky recalled Abraham''s words from a while ago, prompting Verdelet to laugh.


    "Forgive my outburst. It''s just been a while since I''ve heard a human say his name. But yes, Varnae was my master." Verdelet replied, drawing another card as he gazed at the various numbers in his hand.


    "My master turned me twenty thousand years ago, and I followed him faithfully throughout the ages. But time can be the cruelest of gifts." Verdelet''s tone was not one of sadness as he recounted this, but rather filled with visible fury.


    "Instead of me, his most faithful servant, Varnae chose Dracula as his successor as lord of Earth''s vampires, imparting much of his supernatural power into his imperfect vessel." Verdelet''s hand shook violently as he struggled to keep the cards contained.


    "Varnae then committed suicide by exposing himself to direct sunlight, a cowardly death." Verdelet continued with disgust, taking a deep breath as he closed and opened his eyes.


    "I am the true successor, yet my master, my friend, chose not a vampire, but a human no older than fifty years over me." Verdelt forced a smile as he looked at Ricky, who remained skeptical.


    "Why did you share this entire story without asking for anything in return?" Ricky questioned, fully aware that vampires, especially ancient vampires, wouldn''t divulge such secrets out of the kindness of their lifeless hearts.


    "Because I think this might be such a rare opportunity." Verdelet said, his eyes transforming into crescent moons, a look of joy spreading across his face as thoughts swirled in his mind.


    "If you ever find yourself in a war to kill Dracula, I ask that you allow me to join you and assist you with my hoard." Verdelet extended his offer, unknowing if Ricky would ever be able to kill his master''s successor, but he wasn''t about to miss the chance he let slip twenty years ago.


    "Hmmmmmmm~" Ricky hummed, unsure whether to even consider Verdelet''s offer, but he couldn''t help but think about the future.


    If he ever needed allies to confront Dracula, it would be beneficial to have someone like Verdelet backing him, though he doubted he would ever actually call on him.


    "As a show of good faith, I''ll serve those humans up to you on a silver platter," Verdelet sweetened the offer without any charge, but Ricky still squinted, skeptical.


    "You know what? F*ck it. If I ever start a war with Dracula, I''ll call you." Ricky held out his hand, and Verdelet delightedly shook it, a smirk spreading across his face.


    They wrapped up their card game, with Verdelet emerging victorious as he wore a triumphant smile that spread across his face.


    Within this pleased mood, he pulled out a piece of paper and began to scribble something on it, the faint sound of the pen gliding across the surface punctuating the air.


    "This is the address where I''ll gather them tomorrow, along with the vault they use to store their wealth." Verdelet said, handing over the paper as Ricky''s brows scrunched in immense distrust.


    "For what?" Ricky asked, realizing this wasn''t part of their agreement while Verdelet laughed, a glint of mischief in his eyes.


    ''I swear, it''s never cut and dry with vampires.'' Ricky frowned again, sensing that this wasn''t just a generous offer as he immediately assumed there must be a catch, and he was sure he''d uncover it soon enough.


    "I want all of the books, you can have the wealth but I ask for the knowledge they possess-"


    "Alright, whatever." Ricky shrugged off his foreboding words, feigning indifference as he extended his hand, which Verdelet quickly shook.


    "It has been a pleasure finding common ground with you, Black Knight." Verdelet said, visibly pleased to have encountered the black sheep of the Black Knights within his lifetime.


    "Same, it''s like a breath of fresh air of not fighting a strong ass vampire that leaves me with an existential crisis or on the verge of death, or both." Ricky waved, and Verdelet laughed as he exited through the wrecked door, turning the corner.


    As Verdelet left, a host of horrid abominations trailed behind him, their grotesque forms reaching new heights of horror.


    Even Ricky, accustomed to facing dark and formidable creatures, felt a chill run down his spine at the unsettling sight.


    These ghouls were unlike anything Ricky had ever seen with stitches criss crossed their bodies, remnants of haphazard reanimation, while their forms were grotesquely morphed into abominations that defied the very definition of a ghoul.


    *Sigh*


    ''Vampires and their ugly ghouls.''


    Meanwhile In Abrella,


    Eliphas sat at his desk, diligently overseeing the operations of his sect as a devoted leader.


    Managing a vampire organization was no simple task; it demanded immense dedication and meticulous attention to detail, all of which Eliphas was committed to providing.


    As he was about to write something, he suddenly froze, sensing an unusual presence.


    He placed down his quill and lifted his gaze to the window, his instincts sharpening as he strained to discern what had disrupted his focus.


    A black bat perched on his window, smirking at him with an arrogant grin that Eliphas could never forget.


    "Dracula," Eliphas acknowledged, his voice laced with a mixture of contempt and recognition as his expression twisted into a grotesque semblance of rage which forced him to bare his fangs.


    "Ah, Eliphas, how long has it been?" Dracula''s voice echoed through the bat as it transformed, taking on a more humanoid form and perching on the chair across from him.


    "Not long enough, it seems." Eliphas replied, squinting at his old foe, a sense of foreboding settling over him as he had an inkling of what Dracula wanted.


    "And here I thought we were good friends?" Dracula said, flapping his wings in mock pain before snickering as if the mere consideration of this fact left him unable to contain his laughter.


    "What are you really here for, Dracula? We both know you never visit without wanting something." Eliphas snarled, recalling the last time their paths crossed, when Dracula had ripped a powerful vampiric artifact from his grasp.


    "Very well, I''ll relent," Dracula replied, his expression shifting as his smile turned carnivorous.


    "I want you to set a trap for not only Abraham but the budding Black Knight." Dracula''s request bordered on a demand, prompting a hearty laugh from Eliphas.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Eliphas erupted, the absurdity of Dracula''s request striking him as the funniest thing he had heard in ages.


    "And-PUAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Eliphas attempted to respond, but the notion of aiding the loathsome creature who had nearly taken his life on five separate occasions consumed him, sending him into another fit of laughter.


    "And why would I ever, EVER, help you Dracula?" Eliphas decided to ask, leaning over while shedding into his normal face to reveal the monstrous form that always lurked beneath.


    "It''s quite simple, actually, since I know where Nova Roma is," Dracula said calmly, his words wiping the mocking smile off Eliphas''s face.


    The gravity of the statement settled heavily in the air, replacing laughter with a tense silence as Eliphas registered the implication behind Dracula''s knowledge.


    "What?" Eliphas breath hitched, asking out for clarification only for Dracula to raise his gaze.


    "Oh, you must not know yet, since it hasn''t been revealed to the world." Dracula replied, a knowing glint in his eyes.


    He could sense that Eliphas understood the weight of his words, yet he felt a twisted sense of reassurance in continuing to mock him.


    *Ahem*


    "Let me clarify further then, I know where your precious Selene is currently residing."


    The next day,


    In a lavish ballroom, the atmosphere pulsed with the energy of mingling gangsters, a blend of anticipation and tension that charged the air.


    The expansive space was adorned with grand chandeliers, their crystal prisms glimmering like stars against the rich, dark ceiling.


    Each fixture cast a warm, inviting glow over the room, illuminating the polished wooden floors that gleamed as if freshly waxed, reflecting the elegance of the gathering.


    The walls were draped in opulent fabrics, deep reds and regal golds, that exuded wealth and power, while ornate mirrors interspersed among the drapery amplified the sense of grandeur.


    Intricate moldings framed the tall windows, through which the faint glow of the city lights could be seen, a reminder of the world outside, where deals were made and fortunes lost.


    The attendees, known across Sicily as members of the powerful Bruno, Greco, and Inzerillo families, moved with a confident ease, each acutely aware of their own importance in this shadowy world.


    Their presence commanded attention, exuding an air of authority that permeated the ballroom as all of these men wore sharply tailored Italian suits, crafted from the finest fabrics, and carried themselves in such a way that showed them off.


    "Tsk, calling us here in the middle of the day and on our turf, who does this vampire think he is?" An older man sneered from his seat at the table, encircled by a sea of armed guards.


    Though only two men sat beside him, their mere presence served as a formidable reminder of the countless weapons at their disposal.


    These three individuals were the leaders of a powerful triad of mafia families, each one intimately involved in overseeing the daily operations of Mussolini''s ventures.


    Their influence was vast, stretching across the underbelly of the city, and they were not accustomed to being summoned like this.


    As they exchanged glances, tension crackled in the air, thick with unspoken questions about the purpose of this unexpected meeting and the audacity of their visitor.


    The older man leaned back in his chair, arms crossed tightly over his chest, his eyes narrowing as he contemplated the implications of the vampire''s boldness.


    Paolo Bruno, Roberto Greco, and Marco Inzerillo, all seasoned men with weathered faces, sat around the polished mahogany table, their expressions a mixture of impatience and irritation with not a single pleased smile in sight.


    "Aye, the man did take care of our sudden Black Knight problem, and besides, the boys haven''t had a day off lately," Roberto said, scratching his chin as his pinky ring gleamed in the light as if doing this to show off the glistening ruby.


    "Is that blood sucker really necessary to take on the Maggia-"


    "AYE!" Paolo and Roberto exclaimed in unison, cutting off Marco, who fell silent.


    "Are you crazy, saying their name out of the blue like that?" Paolo gestured emphatically, his eyes wide with shock as he stared at Marco.


    "We can''t simply take them on; it''s too soon," Roberto said, shaking his head as Marco''s brows furrowed even deeper, resembling a pair of scrunched-up caterpillars as he considered Roberto''s words.


    "And why is that? We have not only the nation''s leader on our side but also an old vamp-" Marco started, but his words were interrupted by a wave of protest from Paolo and Roberto.


    "Because when you mess with one chair, you mess with its table," Roberto said, his expression grave.


    The weight of his words hung in the air, and Paolo and Marco exchanged glances, both recognizing the deeper implications of the metaphor.


    "Now let''s just enjoy the event while we wait for this blood sucker, shall we?"


    As the event unfolded inside, Chores patrolled the perimeter, his keen eyes scanning the lavish surroundings.


    Numerous guards were stationed around the venue, each one a silent sentinel in tailored suits, their hands discreetly resting near concealed weapons.


    Chores and Ricky had agreed to scout the area before making their move, ensuring they could strike decisively and eliminate their targets in one fell swoop while also not exactly trusting Verdelet..


    Chores focused on identifying potential exit routes, aware that every second counted but Verdelet had kept his promise, guiding them to a location with only one escape route.


    This singular path would serve as their advantage, limiting the options for anyone inside to flee or retaliate.


    After finishing his scouting, Chores made his way to the corner where they had agreed was their meet up spot, expecting to find Ricky and instead, he was met with the unexpected presence of Alexander.


    "Alexander, where is-" Chores began, only to be met with a heavy sigh from the gerbil as the lack of the translation device on his waist intensified the unease settling in Chores''s gut.


    *Sigh*


    "Don''t tell me." Chores murmured, dread creeping into his voice as he watched Alexander shake his head.


    The tiny creature''s expression conveyed a wealth of unspoken words, amplifying Chores''s apprehension as he face palmed.


    "Leave it to the manwhore to get sidetracked in the only way he knows how."


    10 minutes ago,


    Ricky glanced at the side of the building, noting the lack of doors leading to the sea, where the banquet hall was situated.


    Nestled tightly between two other structures, the hall''s few windows were designed to preserve the interior''s elegant decor.


    The only outdoor feature was a railing along the service area, where cleaning supplies were stored, offering little in the way of escape or entry.


    The absence of any obvious exits heightened Ricky''s sense of urgency; they needed to devise a plan swiftly.


    "This might be easier than I thought-oh, momma." Ricky mused, a smile creeping across his face just as his dragon perked up, reacting to the sight before him.


    The door swung open, allowing a rush of fresh air to flood in, and in walked a striking woman.


    Her figure was voluptuous and curvaceous, effortlessly commanding attention with each graceful step she took.


    Her presence seemed to fill the space, captivating the attention of everyone nearby and momentarily diverting Ricky''s focus from their plans to the intoxicating allure she exuded.


    The deep V-neckline of her fitted dress accentuated her ample bosom, hugging her curves like a second skin and leaving little to the imagination.


    Cascading waves of dark, lustrous hair framed a face of exquisite beauty, drawing attention to her deep, soulful eyes that sparkled with allure.


    Her olive-toned skin, smooth and radiant, glowed under the soft ambient light, accentuating the subtle curve of a beauty mark just above her upper lip.


    The combination of her striking features and the gentle glow of her complexion made her an undeniable focal point in the room, capturing the hearts and gazes of those around her.


    This tiny imperfection added a touch of mystique to her otherwise flawless features, enhancing her already captivating presence.


    Turning around, a gentle gust of wind swept through, causing her hair to dance momentarily.


    As she glanced back to discern the source of the sudden breeze, her eyes locked onto Ricky''s figure.


    "Hey, baby, I''m THE Black Knight," Ricky said, leaning casually on the window sill as he watched as her cheeks flushed a rosy hue, the corners of her lips twitching with a hint of amusement.


    It was a playful gamble at his lousy pick-up line, but her reaction was enough to spark a flicker of hope in his chest, suggesting that this bold approach might just have struck a chord.


    "I-I am honored to be in your presence, oh holy Black Knight." She anxiously looked around, red in embarrassment before trying to curtsy the best she could.


    "Forgive me if I have stolen any of your time-"


    "The only thing being stolen is my breath," Ricky said, his voice low and confident as he closed the distance between them.


    With a boldness that surprised even him, he slid his hands around her thin waist, drawing her closer.


    He leaned in and gently pressed a kiss on her forehead, his lips lingering for a moment as he savored the warmth of her skin.


    *DING*


    [Mission Received: Carla Bianchi]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: D


    Description: Carla has grown up in a poor impoverished family though was born with good looks and a stellar body. There aren''t many options for a woman in her shoes as she could become a poorhouse wife, a high end prostitute, or a mistress to a high ranking mafia member and she even took this job today in hopes of securing a decent livelihood.


    Objective: Give her another option, single mother.


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once


    Rewards: 5,000 IP or Carla''s Skills


    Impregnate Twice


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Test out some news skills on her and make her cum with them(Incomplete)


    Rewards: 15,000 IP


    F*ck Carla unconscious(Incomplete)


    Rewards: 20,000 IP


    Give her a nice creampie(Incomplete)


    Rewards: 5,000 IP


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    [Do you even wish to read it long enough to-]


    "Yes." Ricky murmured, biting his lip as he read the mission description, a smile creeping onto his face.


    His fingers danced lower along her waist, savoring the moment while his mind raced with possibilities.


    He had recently realized how much he had underutilized the system that guided him. This time, he was determined to engage fully with the details.


    "H-Holy Black Knight-" Carla stammered, her cheeks flushing crimson as the imposing figure pulled her closer.


    "God, you smell good. I guess the Lord does work in mysterious ways." Ricky mused aloud, shamelessly wrapping his arms around her only to take in the intoxicating scent that enveloped her.


    This was a departure from Ricky''s usual approach; he typically took his time, savoring every moment and nuance with a woman.


    But after reading Carla''s description, he felt an exhilarating urge to be bold and direct.


    He wanted to see if showing genuine interest right off the bat could spark a connection, curious to test the waters with this stunning stranger.


    "Come on, dance with me! I know it''s just a closet, but it''s still in a ballroom," Ricky said with a playful grin.


    He grabbed her hand, his grip firm yet inviting, and suddenly began to sway her around.


    The confined space felt more like a stage as he spun her, and she couldn''t help but feel completely consumed by the moment.


    Her shocked expression remained, a blend of surprise and delight, as she gracefully moved with him, swept up in the spontaneous dance.


    "God, how can an angel like you be so naughty, Carla?" Ricky whispered, his voice low and teasing.


    Carla''s eyes widened in shock, her breath hitching at the sound of her name as a tremor ran through her as she felt the heat radiating from him.


    Ricky''s hand, resting on her waist, began to glide across the arch of her back, tracing down her figure with a deliberate slowness and when he cupped her ass, a soft gasp escaped her lips, barely contained.


    "Hmmmm~" Carla shivered, her body responding to the electrifying touch as she struggled to hold back a moan from one of Ricky''s new skills.


    "Wanting to be the mistress of a high-ranking mobster, what am I going to do with you?" Ricky teased, his voice dripping with playful mischief as he began to knead her ass like dough.


    His fingers dug in, gripping and pulling, each squeeze amplifying the current of pleasure coursing through Carla''s body.


    A delightful ripple of sensation spread from her center, radiating outward and leaving her breathless.


    Each touch sent sparks flying, igniting her senses and making it hard to think of anything but the heat building between them.


    As he continued to explore, the line between teasing and desire blurred, leaving Carla lost in the intoxicating moment, her heart racing in rhythm with Ricky''s playful advances.


    "I-I-I''m sorry~" Carla breathed out in a moan, her hands resting against his chest as she closed her eyes, surrendering to the sensation.


    "Ah~" Carla''s soft, sensual moan slipped from her lips, free of shame, as her body began to sway with the rhythm of his hands.


    "I''ll forgive you." Ricky replied, his sleazy smile widening as he watched Carla completely lose herself to the pleasure of his touch.


    Each caress drew her deeper into the moment, her body slowly responding to his every movement, igniting a spark of desire that danced between them.


    "But I''m going to need a favor."

 Chapter 84 - 83: Slight Detour Into Carla(R18)

    Chapter 84: Chapter 83: Slight Detour Into Carla(R18)


    "O-Okay-" Carla breathed out, her voice soft and trembling as heat bloomed through her body as her eyes fluttered up to meet Ricky''s, only to find him already leaning in.


    Ricky drew her into a kiss, his tongue gentle as it teased her lips, offering a taste that left Carla weak.


    What began as a soft, tentative kiss quickly deepened, his flavor enveloping her taste buds.


    The moment his saliva mingled with hers, something stirred within her, a need she hadn''t anticipated, a craving she couldn''t explain.


    It was as if a dam had broken, releasing a flood of sensations that coursed through her veins, igniting every nerve ending.


    Her heart raced, thundering against her ribcage, while warmth pooled in her core, a heat that radiated outwards, enveloping her like a soft embrace.


    She felt dizzy, intoxicated by the sweetness of their kiss, an electric connection that drew her closer to him, urging her to surrender to the depths of her desire.


    When Ricky finally broke away, Carla felt adrift, the lingering taste of him still swirling in her mouth.


    Everything was happening too fast, her thoughts a tangled blur, the moment overwhelming and confusing.


    It felt as though time had warped around her, each heartbeat echoing louder than the last, drowning out any rational thought.


    She struggled to grasp the reality of what was unfolding, the intoxicating mix of fear and exhilaration swirling within her.


    Yet, despite the chaos swirling through her mind, she suddenly felt an undeniable emptiness without his lips, already aching for the sensation to return.


    Carla''s body trembled softly, a shaky breath escaping her lips as she felt Ricky''s hand glide over her skin, molding to her shape with possessive ease before a wide smile spread across his face.


    ''Wet to the touch.''


    "HAAAAH~" Carla let out a trembling moan, her body shuddering as a wave of pleasure surged through her, her core instantly slick with need.


    Carla could feel the wetness gathering, slickening her lower lips, an undeniable heat pooling between her thighs as it began to drip, almost drooling down her skin.


    She squirmed slightly, caught in a blissful struggle as her breath quickened, every inhale laced with the intoxicating blend of urgency and anticipation.


    Just as Carla thought that sudden flash of pleasure had passed, Ricky''s touch intensified once more, surging through her like a wildfire, consuming her from the inside out.


    Her head snapped back, a gasp escaping her lips as another wave of ecstasy crashed over her, a tidal force that swept away her thoughts and left only pure sensation in its wake.


    Carla''s heart raced in rhythm with the throbbing pulse between her thighs, every stroke of his fingers igniting her skin like a thousand sparks.


    She felt her breath quicken, a desperate pant escaping her as her body instinctively arched toward him, craving more.


    "AH~" Carla moaned again, her voice shaky as Ricky''s hands seemed to amplify every sensation, sending pulses of pleasure radiating from her core, spreading like wildfire across her entire body.


    Each touch ignited her nerve endings, causing her skin to tingle and her breath to hitch in her throat.


    It felt as if a thousand butterflies were fluttering just beneath her surface, their delicate wings brushing against her in a symphony of delight.


    Her body responded instinctively, arching toward him, craving the heat of his touch as it danced along her curves.


    Carla felt like her body was on fire, unable to hold herself up any longer as her knees wobbled, threatening to give out beneath her.


    "Woah there~" Ricky whispered in her ear, his voice a low, sultry murmur that sent shivers down her spine, catching her easily as Carla''s entire weight leaned against him.


    Feeling utterly helpless, she clung to his armor with trembling arms, her fingers grasping the cool metal as if it were the only thing anchoring her to reality.


    Desperate for something to steady herself, she fought against the dizzying rush of sensations crippling her mind, as if her legs might buckle beneath her at any moment.


    The only thing keeping her upright was Ricky''s firm grip on her, his hands molding her ass to his every desire as her body melted under the weight of his touch.


    "I-I can''t~" Carla responded helplessly to his caresses, the stroke of hand sweeping her even deeper into the sinkhole of this pleasure that left her breathless and yearning for more.


    "Of course you can, that''s what makes God''s will so magical." Ricky laughed at this sentiment, uncaring about religion but slipping effortlessly into the role as his fingers slid beneath the delicate fabric of her panties.


    Her undergarments quickly became drenched, soaked by the flick of his touch, her body saturating the fabric with her need.


    Every gentle caress sent shivers coursing through her, each stroke further fueling the inferno building deep inside her, leaving her gasping for more.


    His fingers gilded and explored, skillfully coaxing her body to respond, sending jolts of pleasure radiating from her core.


    Her undergarments quickly became drenched, soaked by the overwhelming waves of pleasure that consumed her.


    With each passing second, her body trembled on a new frequency of ecstasy, breathy moans spilling from her lips like sweet temptation.


    Carla could feel the heat pooling deeper inside her, a molten desire that craved release, as if her very essence was being unraveled by his touch.


    It felt utterly unfair, Carla had come to this banquet to play the role of a mistress, only to find herself ensnared and toyed with by the notorious Black Knight.


    Yet instead of protesting, all she could do was moan, surrendering to the intoxicating sensations that overtook her psyche.


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    Carla filled the small room with her sultry cries as Ricky used one hand to exhibit her moans while the other aggressively molded her ass to his desires, the force of his movements making her head collide softly against his breastplate.


    "Ah!" Carla let out a powerful moan, her legs trembling as she suddenly released her pent-up love juices, splashing forth in an exquisite surge of juices.


    As the warmth dribbled down her thighs, she felt herself begin to crumble, but Ricky caught her.


    However instead of pulling her closer, he effortlessly turned her around as she limply fell forward.


    Reacting instinctively, Carla thrust her hands out to prevent herself from colliding with the nearby wall, catching herself just in time.


    But that momentum didn''t stop her from sliding down slowly against the wall, her body pressed tantalizingly against the cool surface.


    As Carla felt Ricky''s hands lift her waist, her trembling legs instinctively sought a foothold.


    Glancing back, she met his gaze, realizing it was Ricky who was keeping her from collapsing.


    Ricky''s eyes roamed over her ragged servant''s dress, clinging to her curves, before he decisively flipped it up, revealing her ass nestled within her drenched white panties.


    "You''re drenched, Carla. Let''s get this off you so you can feel more comfortable." Ricky chuckled, his voice low and teasing as he slowly pulled her panties down, his gaze lingering on her pussy.


    It was well-kept, with just a hint of hair above her clit, showing how much preparation led up to this day.


    Yet, as he gazed at her, a mix of anticipation and frustration coursed through her, knowing her plans had been turned upside down by him.


    But she bit her lip, curiosity and desire swirling within her as she wondered what would happen next.


    "Is that a glare?" Ricky''s sleazy smile danced across his lips as he raised an eyebrow at her as he pulled down his pants, and his cock sprang up.


    *Slap*


    "Ah~" Carla gasped out a moan, the sting of Ricky''s light slap on her ass sending a jolt of pleasure through her.


    "You''re supposed to welcome God''s helpers, not gaze at them with disdain." Ricky lightly punished Carla, continuing his teasing with a playful smirk, his tone laced with mock seriousness.


    He gripped her waist firmly, teasingly positioning the tip of his cock at her entrance, a smirk playing on his face as he savored the moment.


    *CLAP*


    But contrary to the lighthearted gesture, Ricky didn''t ease in; instead, he drove his entire length into her tight pussy in one powerful thrust, filling her completely.


    "AHHHHHHH!" Carla moaned, her body yielding entirely to Ricky''s cock, feeling every inch of him as he filled her insides to their brim.


    But instead of a wail of pain, she instinctively embraced the sensation, no pain to be found, only an overwhelming wave of pleasure that surged from where his hands gripped her waist.


    Trembling uncontrollably, she clenched down tightly around his cock, her head colliding with the wall as she let out breathy moans, her cries echoing like a cat in heat, desperate for more.


    "O-Ohhhhhhh~" Carla moaned, her eyes rolling back in pure bliss as waves of pleasure washed over her.


    Nectar flooded around Ricky''s cock, an overwhelming surge marking her climax as her body quaked, gushing from her slick folds and painting the insides of her thighs with the intoxicating evidence of her desire.


    Her nails dug into the wallpaper, leaving faint marks as her breath came in heavy, moist gasps that caressed the delicate designs.


    Carla''s knees buckled completely, yet she didn''t collapse, strung up and impaled on Ricky''s cock, pinned against the ugly wallpaper, lost in a haze of pleasure.


    "Oh yeah, that''s the stuff~" Ricky groaned, a relieved sigh escaping his lips as he savored the deliciously tight, wet grip enveloping his cock.


    Then, with reckless abandon, Ricky began to move, reveling in the control he had over Carla''s body as he thrust her back and forth onto his monstrous cock.


    A slick, wet gushing sound echoed throughout the room as Carla''s lips were stretched and molded, responding to the relentless rhythm of Ricky''s thrusts.


    Carla couldn''t muster a single complaint, even if she had wanted to; the pleasure surged through her, overwhelming her naive mind.


    The only sounds escaping her lips were the slutty moans that spilled forth with every thrust of Ricky''s cock sliding in and out of her tight, wet pussy.


    *Clap*


    Ricky withdrew his hips, only to thrust forward with fervor, his hips colliding with her meaty ass, which rippled and quivered in response, spiraling in a tantalizing counterclockwise motion before they smacked together.


    He lost himself in his own rhythm, thrusting at his whim, filling the tight room with the sounds of Carla''s initiation into womanhood.


    However even if Ricky''s acts were selfish, each powerful pound drove her deeper into bliss, the aggressive clapping of their bodies echoing like a primal anthem as her mouth flowed freely with a downpour of sloppy moans.


    "I''m gonna cum~" Carla whined out, her eyes fluttering shut as the familiar wave of ecstasy built within her for the third time, her voice tinged with desperation.


    "I''m gonna cum~" Carla whined again, the urgency of her plea rising as she repeated herself, hoping Ricky wouldn''t miss the intensity of her climax.


    "I''m gonna cum~" Carla whimpered, her voice a broken record, the only phrase she could cling to in her haze of pleasure as each repetition felt like a lifeline, grounding her into this overwhelming sensation.


    "I''M CUMMING!" Carla cried out, her eyes widening before rolling back in pure ecstasy.


    Waves of pleasure crashed over her, sending her body into a delicious convulsion, each spasm intensifying the exquisite sensations that coursed through her.


    Carla was putty in Ricky''s hands, her legs trembling and begging to give out, yet held aloft by his unyielding grip as he continued to thrust into her slick, quivering pussy with gradually intensifying strokes.


    Ricky gritted his teeth, the aching pressure building in his balls as a reminder that he was nearing his release.


    With a firm grip on Carla''s waist, he slammed his hips into her, relentlessly ravaging her depths, each thrust driving her further into ecstasy, her body succumbing to the exquisite destruction he wrought.


    Pushing apart and stretching, Carla''s body surrendered to his size, her pussy accommodating him as his cock explored its depths with an insatiable hunger.


    Her slick walls desperately tried to constrict around him, clamping down with a vice-like grip, but instead of slowing him down, it only fueled his desire, invigorating his every thrust.


    When that didn''t deter him, Carla''s pussy flushed with a surge of slick, lubricating juice, but that only welcomed him deeper.


    Beaten into a state of bliss, any instinctive movements from her body only urged his cock deeper until the tip kissed her womb.


    In that moment, Carla''s mind short-circuited, her body erupting in a cascade of juices as hollow moans escaped her lips, lost in a blissful haze that felt like it would never end.


    Ricky quickened his pace, driving deeper into her thoroughly ravaged pussy, the aching pressure in his balls building as his neck strained against the intoxicating sensations coursing through him.


    "Ugh~" Ricky grunted, his teeth clenched tightly as he readied himself for one final thrust, driving deep into Carla''s being.


    His tip breached the gates of her womb, twitching furiously before unleashing a powerful explosion of cum that filled her completely.


    Spraying from his cock, Ricky filled her tight passage with his seed, coating her insides completely in a warm, thick release.


    "F*ck~" Ricky breathed out, savoring the lingering sensation as he made a small, mini thrust to cap off this feeling.


    Carla was utterly limp, climaxing into a vegetable state, her eyes wide open yet glazed over, lost in the depths of her own pleasure.


    Huffing out steamy breaths, Carla let a trail of saliva spill from the corners of her mouth as she slumped against the wall, utterly spent.


    Ricky swiftly lifted her, turning her around before pressing her back against the wall, his arms cradling her legs as he held them up, exposing her completely to his gaze.


    *Huff*


    "Alright, one more time," Ricky said, a sleazy smile playing on his lips, but Carla''s head simply fell against his shoulder, utterly spent.


    Gripping her thighs tightly, he thrust into her pussy once more, catching her off guard and sending waves of unexpected pleasure coursing through her body, awakening desires she thought had been satiated.


    "HNGH~" Carla gasped, a breath of pleasure flooding her senses before a moan escaped her lips.


    Carla felt it once more, that feeling of complete domination ripple throughout her mind, imposing upon her the singular emotion that crippled her thoughts, pleasure.


    The sensation of Ricky thrusting his cock into her pussy, filling her completely with each powerful thrust, and the intoxicating feeling of surrendering herself to his every touch consumed her once more.


    "AH~" Carla moaned out her only rebuttal as she drooled against his armor, completely at Ricky''s mercy.


    *THUMP*


    *THUMP*


    Carla''s back hit against the wall, the impact resonating through her as Ricky''s hips drove into her waist, reveling in the intoxicating pleasure of their union.


    Kissing her neck, he thrust his cock into her dripping wet pussy, effortlessly holding her up as he savored the exquisite pleasure of her body.


    ''This is what vacations are all about.'' Ricky murmured to himself, his lips brushing against her olive skin as he savored the sweetness of her body.


    In this moment, Carla''s pussy was nothing more than his personal paradise, surrendering completely to his every desire, embracing his cock as it filled her to the brim, fulfilling his every whim.


    Her back thumped against the wall, driven by the force of Ricky''s cock slamming into her waist.


    Biting her lip, Carla felt the familiar swell of pleasure building for the fifth time, her eyelashes fluttering as anticipation surged through her.


    "AHHHH~" Carla cried out, caught off guard and unable to register the impending climax, as Ricky''s cock suddenly thrust into her, demanding an immediate response.


    Her nectar flowed in response, cascading down the curves of her pussy, teasingly slipping through his grasp.


    Lifeless, Carla lacked the energy to moan, simply surrendering in Ricky''s embrace as he thrust into her with unrelenting force.


    Each powerful thrust filled her completely, molding her body to this moment, while she wrapped her arms around his neck, accepting her fate.


    As Ricky sped up his thrusts, Carla instinctively closed her eyes, surrendering to the inevitable with a sense of acceptance.


    Each powerful slam of his hips against her delicate waist sent waves of pleasure coursing through her, while he felt that familiar ache building in his heavy balls, yearning to fill her up to the brim once more.


    As he ramped up his pace, his cock twitched violently in anticipation, fully enveloped by the juices of their union, eager to contribute to the intoxicating mix that filled her depths.


    "Damn~" Ricky grunted, teetering on the edge as he leaned into his final thrust, pouring every ounce of himself into it.


    Cum surged from his cock, stretching Carla''s already full depths as it ballooned outward.


    Carla shivered at the sensation, her body responding with a final squirt, releasing the last remnants of liquid onto the floor.


    The searing heat of his cum filled her, expanding within her stomach as Ricky emptied every last drop inside her.


    "Ha~" Ricky let out a contented sigh, gazing down at the utterly wrecked Carla with a satisfied smile


    "And now Carla, you have been pardoned of all sins, you''re welcome" Ricky bestowed his forgiveness upon her as he pulled out, his thick cock causing the floodgates to open.


    As she slid down the wall, his cum spilled from her newly stretched pussy, cascading until her ass hit the ground.


    Carla found herself sitting in a mixture of her own juices, the secret sauce of Ricky''s cum pooling at the entrance of her pussy.


    *DING*


    [Mission Received: Carla Bianchi]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: D


    Description: Carla has grown up in a poor impoverished family though was born with good looks and a stellar body. There aren''t many options for a woman in her shoes as she could become a poorhouse wife, a high end prostitute, or a mistress to a high ranking mafia member. She took this job today in hopes of securing a decent livelihood.


    Objective: Give her another option, single mother.


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once


    Choose: 5,000 IP or Carla''s Skills


    Impregnate Twice


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Test out some news skills on her and make her cum with them(Complete)


    Rewards: 15,000 IP


    F*ck Carla unconscious(Complete)


    Rewards: 20,000 IP


    Give her a nice creampie(Complete)


    Rewards: 5,000 IP


    Bonus Missions:


    Make Carla cum five times(Complete)


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Ruin Carla for any future man(Complete)


    Reward: 10,000 IP


    Overwhelm Carla''s entire being with your cock(Complete)


    Reward: 5,000 IP


    Have Carla accept her future fate of motherhood(Complete)


    Reward: 15,000 IP


    Ricky looked surprised at actually fully completing a mission, pulling up his pants before choosing Carla''s skills over 5,000 IP.


    (Epic Skill) Advanced Cleaning: This skill allows the individual to identify and eliminate even the most stubborn stains, odors, and impurities, ensuring that every surface sparkles and every corner is free of dust and grime.


    ''I think this is the first time I actually completed all the missions.'' Ricky thought, proud of himself while about to stroll out of the room.


    Only then did Ricky look back and think about it for a while before grabbing a piece of mint paper from his inventory and a pen from the side while starting to write something.


    He paused for a moment, his brow furrowing in concentration, the pen gliding smoothly over the paper as his thoughts flowed into words.


    Bending over, he placed it right next to the passed-out Carla, careful not to disturb her serene form.


    As he straightened up, his gaze lingered on her beautiful naked body, the soft curves illuminated by the gentle light that filtered through the room.


    ''Now let''s go avenge my grandpop''s, shall we?''

 Chapter 85 - 84: Mass Murder or Mass Revenge?

    Chapter 85: Chapter 84: Mass Murder or Mass Revenge?


    "So as I was saying-"


    *Clink*


    *Clink*


    *Clink*


    The chatter slowly died down, replaced by the steady clinking of armor as Ricky rounded the corner.


    All eyes turned towards his unexpected arrival silenced the mobsters, their conversation cut short as all eyes turned to him.


    "I hope I''m not intruding on your little get-together." Ricky called out with a laugh, spreading his arms in a mockingly welcoming gesture.


    In contrast, the mobsters'' faces slowly twisted into glares, the mood turning tense as they stared him down.


    "I''m the-oh, are these hors d''oeuvres?" Ricky''s attention instantly shifted, his eyes locking onto a platter of deviled eggs off to the side.


    He casually strolled over, momentarily forgetting the tense atmosphere as he reached for one with zero hesitation.


    The hall fell into a heavy silence, the tension thickening as every gaze shifted from Ricky to the three bosses seated at the head of the room.


    Though Ricky''s carefree demeanor clashed with the grim mood, it wasn''t hard for the gathered men to deduce who he was; his reputation as the Black Knight, intertwined with the church, preceded him.


    The mobsters waited for the bosses'' response, knowing this unexpected visitor was no ordinary intruder.


    "You all don''t mind, do you? I''m actually famished after f*cking this chick literally five minutes ago." Ricky admitted casually, grabbing a deviled egg from the table and popping it into his mouth.


    The room fell into stunned silence as he then reached for a nearby wine glass, snatching it from one of the mob boss''s hands without hesitation, and downed it in one smooth motion.


    Wiping his mouth with the back of his hand, Ricky smirked at the mobsters, their shock palpable in the air as they exchanged tense glances.


    The audacity of his words hung over them like a storm cloud, their glares simmering under the weight of his brazen behavior.


    "Is that red, the good stuff?" Ricky chuckled, placing the now-empty glass back into the hands of Roberto, who clenched his jaw, a large vein throbbing visibly on his forehead as he struggled to contain his frustration.


    Roberto''s fingers tightened around the stem of the glass, his knuckles whitening as he fought the urge to react.


    "What can I do for the Holy Black Knight of our beloved church?" Roberto asked, his voice calm, though the annoyance simmered beneath his formal tone.


    Roberto forced a strained smile, knowing full well he had to relent, given Ricky''s ties to the Vatican and his position as one of its most dangerous swords.


    *Snap*


    *Snap*


    "Really quick, what are your names? I forgot on the way over here," Ricky snapped rudely in their faces, his voice cutting through the tense air as he flashed a grin, fully aware of the irritation bubbling up in the room.


    The mobsters around him exchanged hard glances, their hands slowly inching toward the inside of their suits.


    Ricky''s blatant disrespect made their blood boil, but the bosses remained eerily calm, controlling the rising tension only for Roberto to raise his hand.


    "I am Roberto Greco, this is Paolo Bruno, and he is Marco Inzerillo." Roberto stated, his voice steady as he introduced the others.


    "Small world! I know a kid named Marco, crazy good chef, he''s gonna go far." Ricky''s eyes widened in surprise as he pointed a finger at Marco and with a mischievous grin, he licked his finger and walked over to the trio.


    The bosses were staring daggers at Ricky, their eyes filled with bloodthirst as they seethed at his blatant disrespect.


    Undeterred, Ricky pulled out a nearby chair and plopped down casually, that easy grin spreading even further across his face.


    Completely unfazed by the palpable tension in the air, as if he were merely at a dinner party instead of in the den of the Sicilian underworld.


    *BAM*


    Slamming the chair onto the ground, Ricky settled himself at the table, now accommodating four figures as he leaned over.


    "Now, you''re probably wondering why I''m here, right?" Ricky gestured toward the bosses, who exchanged glances before nodding in acknowledgment.


    "Well, before I dive into the story, I''d like everyone to take a seat." Ricky''s request was unreasonable, and the mobsters hesitated, eyeing each other for confirmation.


    "Holy Black Knight-"


    "I SAID SIT DOWN!" Ricky''s voice boomed, a flash of red energy flickering in his eyes.


    The ebony blade at his side vibrated in delight, responding to the surge of rage radiating from him.


    Ricky quickly flinched, feeling the weight of his own fury, and instinctively placed a hand over his chest.


    "Whoa, I didn''t think I had that in me." Ricky admitted, glancing around at the mobsters, who were already drawing their guns as he then turned his gaze back to the mob bosses, assessing their reactions.


    "Humor me, will you?" Ricky said with a sly smile at the bosses, his tone deceptively casual as he reached for a nearby bottle of wine and began pouring himself a generous glass.


    "Everyone sit down, do it." Roberto commanded, his voice steady and authoritative as Paolo and Marco exchanged glances before promptly following his lead and ordering their men.


    The rest of the mobsters, sensing the shift in dynamics, took their seats, while those without chairs settled on the floor.


    All the mobsters sat in bewilderment, exchanging confused glances at how this situation had unfolded.


    The infamous Black Knight''s presence at their secret meeting was baffling enough, but being ordered to sit down without a clear reason only heightened their unease.


    Yet, amidst the confusion, the bosses Roberto, Paolo, and Marco remained stoic, their gazes locked on Ricky with unwavering seriousness.


    They weren''t just focused on his words; they were studying him, trying to discern his true intentions behind this bold intrusion.


    "Alright, so the story starts some odd years ago when you three waged war against your mafia counterparts and all the rival families that didn''t want to yield to Mussolini." Ricky took a casual sip from his glass, though the weight of his words immediately set the room on edge.


    The mention of their violent past, a topic rarely spoken about in such casual terms, caused a ripple of unease among the mobsters.


    Eyes darted toward the bosses, waiting for their reaction, but the trio remained stone-faced.


    "Oh come on, I didn''t come here because I have any problems with how Mafia Families operate." Ricky said with a lazy grin, swirling the wine in his glass as if it were the most interesting thing in the room.


    "I mean, I couldn''t care less for how you go about vying for power." Ricky eyes flicked up from the swirling liquid to meet the hardened gazes of the bosses.


    "The problem I do have, however, is a man that was killed during that war." Ricky''s tone shifted, growing colder as he locked eyes with each of the mafia bosses in turn.


    "I don''t know if you know him, but his name was Antonio Luciano." Ricky said, his voice steady but laced with a simmering intensity.


    At the mention of the name, Roberto''s eyes fluttered shut for a moment, the faintest sign of recognition.


    His expression had shifted slightly, revealing just a hint of what Ricky was looking for as the knowing look that crossed Roberto''s face spoke volumes, he remembered.


    "But he obviously didn''t win, did he?" Ricky gestured towards the three mob bosses.


    "Because if he had, you wouldn''t all be sitting here today." Ricky let the words sink in, watching as their eyes darkened.


    "He lost, and like all men in this game, he couldn''t just walk away. No, you all did what you had to do to wipe out the Luciano name, or at least tried to." Ricky''s fingers drummed against the table rhythmically, his gaze sharp, but there was no malice, just understanding of the brutal game they played.


    "But don''t worry, the story doesn''t end there." Ricky chuckled slightly, leaning in further with a toothy grin.


    "You see, Antonio had a son, Lucky. Who escaped to America, looking to build his own ''American Dream.''" Ricky spread his hands wide, emphasizing the weight of the revelation, his wine glass tipping slightly as some of the liquid splashed onto the table.


    Roberto opened his eyes again, this time with a deeper intensity, the name clearly resonating with him.


    "Most people in that situation, watching everything they ever had ripped away, would give up, tuck themselves in some dark corner and just throw it all away. Hell, if I was in the same position with no one in my corner, I might''ve done just that." Ricky mused, leaning back in his chair as he glanced up at the ceiling.


    "But not Lucky; he had drive, ambition, the kind that doesn''t just vanish after one defeat." Ricky leaned closer, his eyes glimmering with immense respect for Lucky as he addressed the three bosses.


    "Now, Lucky evidently took after his father, growing a family of his own, and along the way, he adopted a trashy orphan." Ricky declared, removing his helmet and placing it on the table as he locked eyes with the three bosses.


    "And this orphan was just an irredeemable piece of f*cking trash and still is to some extent, but what that orphan never would have expected was that Lucky genuinely cared about him." Ricky said with a warm smile, channeling his powers to create a psychic box that trapped everyone seated inside without their knowledge.


    "Lucky is many things, but that orphan never imagined he could be a good father. He constantly sought to prove any doubts he had wrong until the orphan began to believe in his words." Ricky said, tracing his finger around the rim of his wine glass


    "Do any of you perhaps know the Luciano saying?" Ricky asked curiously, glancing at Marco and Paolo, who wore expressions of confusion, while Robert met his gaze directly.


    "A Luciano never forgets their own." Robert''s cold, brooding voice cut through the tension, causing Ricky to laugh as he flicked the wine glass over.


    The wine splashed onto the white-clothed table, staining the silk fabric a deep red, creating a small pool of wine that framed the faces of the mob bosses looming above it.


    "You understand why I''m here, right?" Ricky tilted his head, his eyes glinting with a mix of amusement and menace as the mobsters slowly stood, drawing their guns.


    "This can go two ways-"


    "Kill him; we''ll deal with the church later!" Roberto commanded, his voice steady and authoritative as the men all aimed their guns at Ricky.


    With hesitation, the air crackled as bullets surged toward Ricky, the mobsters'' fingers tightening on their triggers, unleashing a deadly barrage.


    Ricky, however, remained unnervingly calm, not even flinching as he reached for a butter knife on the table.


    The bullets screamed through the air, mere moments away from tearing into his flesh.


    Yet, just before impact, they abruptly halted, suspended in mid-flight by a shimmering dome shield that materialized around him.


    The metallic projectiles clattered harmlessly to the ground, deflected by the unseen barrier, leaving Ricky untouched and still poised, a sly smile creeping across his face.


    Time seemed to slow as the dome shield absorbed the relentless hail of bullets, each one flattening and falling to the floor in a chorus of muted clangs.


    The mobsters watched in horrified disbelief, their gazes fixed on Ricky.


    With deliberate grace, he lifted the butter knife and flicked it through the air at the new wave of oncoming bullets.


    The motion was almost casual, a stark contrast to the chaos that had erupted moments before.


    As the knife sailed through the air, it glinted in the dim light, a playful flicker of defiance. The instant it made contact, a shockwave rippled through the room.


    "Full Counter."


    In an instant, the room was plunged into chaos as blood splattered across the pristine marble flooring.


    The unlucky shooters were torn apart by an unseen force, limbs and torsos shredded into chunks.


    Flesh and bone exploded in gruesome bursts, painting the walls with crimson as the air thickened with the metallic scent of blood, mingling with the sickening sounds of tearing flesh and agonized screams.


    Panic erupted among the remaining mobsters, their bravado shattered as they scrambled to escape the horrific scene unfolding before them.


    Some mobsters were paralyzed with horror, their eyes wide with disbelief as the brutality was incomprehensible, as if a nightmare had sprung to life.


    Blood sprayed across the room, splattering the walls and staining clothes like a gruesome water park.


    The scene unfolded too quickly to fully register, and within moments, three-quarters of the men in the hall had been reduced to bloody remnants, their bodies mangled and unrecognizable.


    The air was thick with the metallic stench of blood and the cacophony of terror-filled screams, a grim symphony underscoring Ricky''s chilling display of power.


    Those who survived were drenched in the blood of their comrades, standing frozen in a grisly tableau of carnage.


    The once-quiet hall had transformed into a chamber of terror, echoing with the weight of their disbelief and horror.


    The mobsters were left to grapple with the horrifying aftermath of the slaughter, their minds racing to comprehend the brutality they had just witnessed.


    The air was heavy with the scent of iron, and the silence that followed was suffocating, punctuated only by the distant sound of their own ragged breaths.


    Covered in the blood of their brothers, cousins, and friends, the mobsters felt their sanity unraveling, each droplet a reminder of their shattered lives.


    As they stood amidst the chaos, their mentalities were torn to shreds, struggling to process the horror before them.


    Meanwhile, Ricky, with a nonchalant demeanor, held back the deviled eggs he had just eaten, his expression a stark contrast to the carnage surrounding him.


    "Disgusting. Jesus, am I actually getting used to this?" Ricky shook his head in disbelief, pushing the remaining deviled eggs aside after losing his appetite.


    "Y-You-"


    "Listen, you''re all going to die here, so let''s not make it as f*cking disgusting as whatever that was just now." Ricky stood up, his finger pointing menacingly at a nearby man, a dangerous glint in his eyes.


    "Fireball." Ricky muttered, his hand shooting out with a scorching burst of flame that collided with the nearest mobster.


    The fireball struck him square in the chest, carving a gaping crater and incinerating him instantly.


    The stench of burnt flesh filled the air, sending the remaining mobsters into a state of utter despair as they collectively realized the futility of their situation.


    Fear seeped into their hearts, extinguishing any last remnants of courage they might have harbored.


    Desperate to escape, the mobsters turned to flee, but collided violently with Ricky''s shimmering barrier.


    Panic surged through them as they scrambled and slammed against the invisible wall, their frantic attempts to break through met with relentless futility.


    Their efforts only echoed in the chamber, the sound of bodies thudding against the shield mingling with their desperate shouts and gasps, but the barrier remained unyielding, trapping them within a deadly cage of their own making.


    *BOOM*


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The desperate screams of the mobsters echoed as they pounded against Ricky''s barrier, which was suddenly engulfed in a swirling storm of pyrokinetic flames.


    The fiery vortex roared to life, surrounding them in a ring of fire that flickered and danced with malevolent glee.


    Ricky''s green eyes reflected the carnage unfolding around him, the blood splattering and the cries of terror resonating deep within him.


    Each scream seemed to reverberate through his very being, intensifying the red light coursing through his irises as the glow thickened with every second he spent immersed in this hellish display.


    "Water surge." Ricky declared, seizing the moment to practice his magic as a powerful stream of water shot forth from his hand, arcing gracefully through the air. He focused intently, conjuring more water to enhance the torrent.


    The deluge surged down upon the mobsters attempting to flee, ensnaring them in its grasp.


    The force of the cascading water swept them off their feet, trapping them in its relentless flow until they were all rounded up and helpless against the rising tide.


    Crashing them down into the middle, Ricky felt a pang of discomfort clawing at him, a flicker of hesitation that clashed with the exhilaration coursing through his veins.


    Yet, that crimson flash in his eyes, the raw power and intensity of it, convinced him he had come too far to turn back now.


    "Earth Wall." Ricky commanded, summoning two massive earth walls that erupted from the ground, forming a sturdy barrier around the panicked mobsters.


    As they scrambled and clawed at the dirt, desperate to escape, Ricky crushed his hands together, the walls slamming shut with a deafening roar.


    *BOOM*


    *SPLAT*


    Blood immediately splattered out from the crevice between the two walls, the grotesque sound of bodies being crushed into a paste resonating through the hall.


    When Ricky turned back to face the three bosses, however, he was taken aback.


    They weren''t cowering in fear; instead, they sat relaxed, smoking cigars as if they were merely spectators at a show, their faces impassive and composed.


    It was as if they were accepting their fate with an unsettling calmness, a stark contrast to the chaos surrounding them.


    "And here I thought you''d be begging me to spare you." Ricky chuckled, a hint of disbelief in his voice as he sat back down, his demeanor shifting from aggression to casual amusement.


    With a swift motion, he closed his hand, and the nightmarish inferno around them dissipated, leaving only a looming silence.


    "Kid, when you''ve been in this business as long as we have, killing as many people as we have, you already accept the fate that one day you might be done in the same way," Marco explained, his voice steady and resolute, knowing he''s done far worse than what Ricky had done to his men today.


    "It was surprising, but it is our fault for not already having our guys decked out in supernatural gear but Mussolini doesn''t prioritize us anymore." Paolo chuckled in disdain, shaking his head as if to dismiss the idea that their predicament could have been avoided.


    "You know, you might not be their blood, but it boggles me how much of a Luciano you are." Robert commented, dabbing the ash from his cigar to the side as he regarded Ricky with a mix of admiration and wariness.


    "I mean, how arrogant you are and completely uncaring of the consequences, of course, not that you''re all that." Robert pointed his cigar at him, a smirk playing on his lips as the other two laughed.


    "Yeah, well, if it were this easy to kill you all, I wouldn''t be wasting my time worrying about the consequences." Ricky suddenly laughed, his laughter slowly rising and overpowering the others, silencing them as his gaze fixed on the mob bosses as he unsheathed his sword and stood up.


    "Any last words?" Ricky asked, choosing to indulge his curiosity one last time and the mob bosses exchanged glances, nodding as if they had reached a silent understanding.


    "Go f*ck yourself-"


    Ricky swung his ebony blade in a horizontal arc, severing all their heads in a single, fluid motion.


    The heads rolled onto the table, their expressions frozen in shock as the lifeless bodies slumped forward.


    *BLERGH*


    Once everything was said and done, the red energy in Ricky''s eyes faded away, leaving him momentarily disoriented.


    Suddenly, he doubled over and threw up, the deviled eggs he had eaten earlier splattering messily across the table.


    "I thought I could handle it but-"


    *BLERGH*


    Despite having held his composure throughout the encounter, the moment he dispatched the last three bosses, his stomach churned violently, betraying the calm facade he had carefully maintained.


    He had grown accustomed to killing, yet the sight of mass carnage and the gruesome displays it left behind still turned his stomach.


    His progress had been steady, but everything came to a grinding halt the moment he crushed a dozen men between two earth walls, the visceral reality of their demise shattering his composure.


    Despite everything, Ricky wasn''t a psychopath; he felt a profound disgust for himself when gazing at the aftermath, grappling with the disturbing realization of how far he had gone.


    It wasn''t until he noticed that his hand had never left the hilt of his sword that the full weight of his actions hit him.


    Though Ricky had come to confront the families that had wiped out the Luciano name in Sicily, the Ebony Blade had unknowingly intensified his hatred and rage for what they had done to Lucky.


    "F*ck."


    Meanwhile outside,


    "You don''t think he did-" Chores began, striding toward the doors with Alexander slung over his shoulders.


    He had already incapacitated the guards and was pulling open the double doors to the hall, his expression a mix of determination and urgency.


    *BLERGH*


    Chores stepped into the hall but immediately doubled over, retching as he vomited onto the floor.


    He shook his head in disbelief before heaving again, another wave of nausea forcing him to expel more of his stomach''s contents onto the already stained marble.


    "WHAT THE F*CK, SLICK!" Chores yelled, actually cursing at him, watching as Ricky struggled to regain his composure, only to start gagging again.


    The sight before them was a horrific tableau, a grotesque reminder of the brutality that had just unfolded.


    Corpses littered the floor, their lifeless forms twisted and mangled in grotesque positions.


    Flesh was shredded and torn, scattered like discarded rags, while blood pooled in dark, congealing puddles, staining the pristine marble.


    Organs clung to the walls, splattered in gruesome arcs, creating a macabre mosaic of death.


    Bodies piled upon one another, limbs intermingled in a nightmarish heap, some heads severed cleanly, rolling lifelessly in the crimson tide.


    The stench of iron and decay filled the air, heavy and suffocating, a cruel reminder of the violence that had erupted just moments before.


    *BLERGH*


    Chores threw up once more, his body convulsing as he heaved out another helping of vomit, the contents of his stomach splattering against the floor.


    "C-Chores stop-" Ricky covered his mouth, shaking his head only to gag to the side.


    *BLERGH*


    "Oh god~" Ricky said, the words barely escaping his lips before he doubled over, throwing up violently as he clutched his stomach.


    "This is nothing; if anything, it''s just an average sight on a battlefield," Alexander remarked, his voice steady as he surveyed the gruesome scene around him.


    It felt eerily familiar, like walking through the aftermath of one of his own battles.


    "That''s it, I need a break from this sword," Ricky muttered under his breath, his grip tightening around the ebony blade.


    He took a moment to gather himself, then reached for his storage key, unlocking it with a flick of his wrist.


    "This whole mindf*ck thing, I tried, but you''re in timeout until my mind doesn''t feel like I''m in a haze." Ricky sighed slightly, his voice laced with frustration as he hurled the confused blade into his isolated storage space.


    However, strangely enough, his knight uniform didn''t vanish like the blade did, and Ricky didn''t bother to ponder why.


    Instead, he wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, the taste of bile still lingering, and walked past the aggrieved Chores, who was still leaning against the doorframe, visibly shaken.


    Alexander, unfazed by the carnage, hopped onto his shoulder, actually showing a reminiscent expression amidst the horrid array of bodies.


    "Alright come on, we got a bunch of stuff to steal."


    30 minutes of walking later,


    "This-.....this obviously isn''t a trap, right?" Ricky asked, glancing at Alexander perched on his shoulder.


    They both stared at the ominous double doors ahead, their heavy wooden frames looming like sentinels, a sense of dread hanging in the air.


    The coordinates Verdelet had provided led them to the outskirts of old Sicily, a place where the remnants of ancient structures were gradually giving way to modern renovations.


    As they approached, Ricky felt a sense of confusion wash over him; what had been promised as a meeting point now resembled an ancient graveyard.


    The ground was littered with weathered stones, and crumbling statues stood as silent witnesses to time''s passage but Alexander, however, was filled with a palpable wariness.


    "This is-....impossible." Alexander stared at the familiar style, the intricate architecture surrounding them, and felt a wave of disbelief wash over him.


    Memories flooded back, intertwining with the present in a way that left him breathless at his own realization.


    "Young Ricky, th-this is the work of Daedalus, you must be wary." Alexander stammered, his voice tinged with an urgency that made Ricky''s skin prickle.


    The familiar unease coursed through Alexander as he shifted anxiously, his tiny claws gripping Ricky''s shoulder tighter.


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    Chores was off to the side, hacking and coughing, still reeling from the horrifying realization of just how disturbingly squishy a human body truly is.


    The vivid imagery of flesh being torn and bones snapping replayed in his mind like a grotesque film he couldn''t turn away from.


    "Daedalus?" Ricky asked, finally noticing how anxious Alexander truly was in this place.


    "Yes, he was and is still considered one of the most influential architects in Greek history." Alexander shook his head, genuinely shocked as the realization settled over him like a heavy shroud.


    "However, his jealousy over his disciple and nephew''s brilliance led to his imprisonment, where he forged a pair of wings for himself and his son, Icarus." Alexander explained, his voice low and tense and Ricky''s eyes widened in recognition as the story clicked into place.


    "The guy who flew too close to the sun?" Ricky actually asked, recalling the tale of ambition and tragedy while Alexander nodded slowly, the weight of the myth settling heavily between them.


    "Yes, but instead of being punished for his escape, the gods took pity on him and banished him from Greece," Alexander continued, his voice laced with urgency. He hopped off Ricky''s shoulder and scurried over to the temple doors, his paw tracing over the rune carvings.


    "It was said that he wandered the lands as a nomad before arriving in Sicily, but I merely thought of it as legend." Alexander added, backing up a few steps as the ancient structure loomed before him, an undeniable relic of the past.


    "Young Ricky, I am certain of one thing after seeing these doors," Alexander said, his tone grave as Ricky gestured for him to continue, sensing the weight of his words.


    "And that is?" Ricky prompted, leaning in, the tension palpable as Alexander allowed the moment to simmer, his gaze fixed on Ricky''s green eyes.


    "The bank vault of those mafia families is the tomb of Daedalus."

 Chapter 86 - 85: Tomb Of Daedalus

    Chapter 86: Chapter 85: Tomb Of Daedalus


    "Okay, and?" Ricky asked, not seeing the significance but Alexander quickly scurried back over to him.


    "Daedalus was a genius who created the first labyrinth approved by the gods. If this is his tomb, then it''s most likely a labyrinth," Alexander explained in a sort of pompous way, his tone assertive as Ricky raised his hands.


    "Alright, got it." Ricky chuckled a bit, seeing Alexander scrunch his eyebrows at his lackluster reaction.


    "Do you not grasp the meaning of my words? This is a labyrinth, made by Daedalus!" Alexander''s tone carried immense foreboding, but Ricky didn''t share the same fear that seemed to rattle the anxious figure before him.


    "Why are you getting all worked up? How was I supposed to know that-"


    "Because it is common knowledge-"


    "Like, 4,000 years ago." Ricky said, spreading his arms wide to emphasize the obvious that they were not exactly in ancient Greece.


    "Youngsters truly don''t appreciate history like they did in the days of old." Alexander scoffed as Ricky just rolled his eyes, glancing around before his gaze settled back on the gates.


    "Did those mobsters have any key-"


    "No, they did not."


    A voice sounded from behind him as Ricky quickly turned, his guard instantly up as he faced Verdelet.


    "Worry not, I''m not here for betrayal. I''m too old for such things." Verdelet said, raising his hands in surrender as Ricky frowned, scratching his head as he eyed the old man suspiciously.


    "Why didn''t you just tell me it''s a f*cking labyrinth?" Ricky cussed out Verdelet, who nodded and shrugged nonchalantly in response.


    "Would it have mattered to you if it were a labyrinth or just a regular vault?" Verdelet asked, his tone genuine after spending some time gauging Ricky''s personality.


    "Honestly, no. But a heads up would''ve made me feel less on edge." Ricky confessed, feeling the tension of the situation, which reeked of betrayal.


    "So, are you going to tell me the real reason you can''t go in there?" Ricky asked, gesturing behind him as Verdelet smiled at the question but simply pointed to himself.


    "Over time, Daedalus grew to loathe and hate the gods, along with all things supernatural." Verdelet continued, making his way over to the double doors.


    "So when Daedalus solved the riddle of the shell for King Cocalus, the king asked him to create a vault that could only be opened by human hands." Verdelet explained, placing his hand on the doors and in an instant, it was incinerated.


    Ricky squinted, feeling a sense of unease as his lie detection had never gone off even once, which was unusual; it was common for people to lie at least once in conversation.


    "However, when he constructed the vault, it ultimately became his tomb, enshrouding him and all his treasures." Verdelet said, glancing back at Ricky as his hand began to regenerate.


    "My research has led me here, and I need the diaries of Daedalus. That''s why I made you the offer in the first place." Verdelet explained, gesturing toward Ricky. Ricky rubbed his chin thoughtfully as Chores trudged over to his side.


    "What do you want to do, Slick? This vampire is obviously up to no good." Chores whispered, but Ricky continued to muse, lost in thought.


    "You know what, Verdelet? I''m going to give you the benefit of the doubt." Ricky declared, turning toward the double doors as his decision surprised literally everyone around him.


    "SLICK!"


    "YOUNG RICKY!"


    Alexander and Chores were livid, unable to comprehend how Ricky could be so agreeable about being used in such a blatant manner.


    "Verdelet has been the only vampire who''s shown even a little reason, and I''m just too tired to care if he''s betraying me or not. So I''ll need a clear answer." Ricky then turned to Verdelet, who looked immensely surprised by the human''s boldness.


    "Verdelet, if I give you what you want, are you going to cause me any problems after it''s all said and done?" Ricky asked, phrasing his question carefully to ensure he could detect any lies.


    Verdelet sat there, a little puzzled.


    It was natural for humans to loathe and detest Verdelet, especially with the abominations lurking in his shadow, making it impossible for them to see beyond him.


    However, when he realized that Ricky wouldn''t care about his plans for the books as long as they didn''t disrupt his way of life, he found it greatly amusing.


    "No, I will not disrupt you in any way, shape, or form if I receive the books," Verdelet said with a smile as Ricky''s lie detection remained silent as he shrugged, weighing the vampire''s words.


    "Alright then, good enough for me." Ricky said, placing his hand on the double doors, which instantly caused him to vanish into thin air, with Alexander still perched on his shoulder.


    "He teleported into the labyrinth, if that''s what you''re inquiring about." Verdelet said, observing Chores clench his fists at Ricky''s sudden disappearance and scrunching his eyebrows in concern.


    However, Chores didn''t bother leaving any statements that revealed his mistrust toward Verdelet, who could see it clearly in the look in his eyes.


    Instead, the giant walked over and placed his hand on the doors.


    "Such amusing humans," Verdelet mused as he walked over and sat on a nearby bench.


    "I wonder how they will disrupt the world around them, very fascinating indeed."


    Meanwhile in the depths of the Labyrinth,


    "What the-" Ricky exclaimed, looking up at the massive stone statues flanking another entrance.


    "ONE OF US LIES!" The guard on the right bellowed.


    "AND THE OTHER TELLS THE TRUTH!" The guard on the left shouted immediately afterward.


    "Ah, I see," Alexander said, rubbing his chin as Chores joined them, stepping to their side.


    "It seems to be a practical riddle-"


    "What finger am I holding up?" Ricky asked, raising his middle finger at the two stone statues.


    "MIDDLE!" Right yelled.


    "POINTER!" Left yelled.


    "That was easy enough," Ricky said with a nod, leaving the two stone statues speechless as they realized how useless they felt.


    "How do I pass this gate statue on the right?" Ricky asked, looking directly at the right statue, which held a sword.


    "You must solve the riddle. I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but I come alive with the wind. What am I-"


    "An echo," Ricky suddenly answered, startling Alexander and Chores, who hadn''t even considered it as he then walked forward confidently.


    "CORRECT!" The statue roared as the double doors swung open, allowing Ricky to walk in.


    "H-How?" Alexander could only stammer, the words forming in Chores mouth but failing to escape.


    "What, did you think that I couldn''t be able to solve that-"


    "Yes!" Chores and Alexander both yelled, rushing to follow him into the next room.


    "Riddles are easy; how could you not know that one?" Ricky scoffed, effortlessly solving it, which only boggled their minds further.


    It was such a unique talent, but Ricky had always been able to solve riddles; he just had never had the opportunity to showcase this skill.


    The reason this skill had remained hidden until now was deeply rooted in the circumstances of Ricky''s life.


    He had never encountered situations where riddles were a factor, or perhaps he had simply prioritized other abilities that were more vital for his survival, skills like street smarts and physical prowess.


    But now, in the heart of the labyrinth, this unique talent could finally emerge.


    "Greetings, we are the three, who speak three!"


    Three stone statues materialized in front of three podiums, each adorned with a unique puzzle as Ricky let out a sigh, knowing that this was just another challenge to tackle.


    "I guess we have to solve these three puzzles in a specific order to receive some stupid riddle, right?" Ricky called out, but the statues initially paid him no mind.


    "You have to solve these three puzzles." The middle statue proclaimed.


    "In order and re-" The statue on the far left began to speak, but then paused, finally registering Ricky''s words.


    "Correct." The statue on the far right acknowledged his answer.


    Nodding to himself, he saw the obvious glares on the statues who were about to go into its whole tangent, but Ricky already solved it before they could even finish.


    Walking over to the middle one, Ricky saw dozens of jumbled pieces, and his mind raced with the challenge ahead, knowing they needed to be solved.


    Ricky had an itch once more, the very same one that happened whenever he found a mechanical instrument or technology not functioning correctly.


    Ricky usually supplemented it with booze, but now that he was sober it was gnawing at his subconsciousness.


    "I think we should first consider their height and-" Chores stepped forward, ready to bear the burden of this riddle while using his intellect only to be stopped by Ricky.


    "No, their entire way of talking is a riddle in itself." Ricky promptly answered, as if it were once again obvious, leaving even the statues momentarily shocked.


    "It''s a joke. A setup, development, and punchline meaning the order is middle, left and right." Ricky explained his reasoning while deftly solving the physical puzzle, which resembled a mini labyrinth.


    "By the gods, young Ricky, how do you know this?" Alexander asked, astonished. Ricky shrugged nonchalantly as he moved to the next physical puzzle on the left.


    "I don''t know, but riddles are just easy." Ricky replied, revealing that, although he might not excel in many areas, he was unknowingly a master of riddles.


    Chores stood there, momentarily shocked as he watched Ricky, who was physically close but felt increasingly distant.


    Over the past few weeks, it seemed their metaphorical gap had widened, pulling them apart.


    It wasn''t baseless to say that Chores had followed Ricky on a whim, still uncertain about his own path after his mother had passed away.


    The entire reason Chores had joined the circus in the first place was to provide for his mother, vowing to help her recover until her untimely death.


    Her passing wasn''t just a simple loss; it shattered his sense of identity, extinguishing the beacon that had once guided him to shed his own struggles in order to support her.


    He felt adrift, which was why he had accepted Ricky''s offer; he simply didn''t know what he wanted.


    After confronting the men who had robbed him of his last chance to see his mother before she passed away, he unknowingly transformed into someone else entirely.


    Chores grappled with this change, longing to be the same carefree Chores he had been as a circus performer.


    Yet, the blood on his hands refused to wash away, no matter how hard he scrubbed.


    So, he followed Ricky, having nowhere else to turn, especially with the stigma of being a mutant hanging over him.


    In Ricky, he found solace, recognizing a kindred spirit in his new boss, someone who shared the burden of being different.


    At first, Chores derived a sense of worth from helping Ricky, feeling valuable in his support.


    However, as time passed, he watched in frustration as Ricky''s strength soared while he himself stagnated.


    Chores attempted to insert himself further into Ricky''s life, offering reasonable opinions and advice for Ricky to lean on.


    Yet, despite his efforts, he couldn''t shake the growing sense of worthlessness that consumed him.


    Now, the last asset Chores had, the sharpness of his calculated mind, felt utterly useless in a place that desperately needed it.


    The labyrinth''s complexities and Ricky''s soaring abilities overshadowed his own skills, leaving him to wonder if he had any value left to offer.


    *CLAP*


    "Alright, give me the riddle, lay it on me." Ricky declared, clapping his hands together as he faced the three statues.


    He had solved the puzzles with surprising ease, leaving the statues visibly bewildered by his rapid-fire understanding.


    "I have cities, but no houses. I have forests, but no trees. I have rivers, but no water. What am I?" In unison, they recited the most challenging riddle they could conjure, their voices dripping with disdain as they attempted to subdue the man before them with a test of wit.


    "A map." Ricky replied with a scoff, the answer rolling off his tongue as the riddle seemed almost too easy for him.


    "Correct!" exclaimed the statue on the right, its voice booming with surprise as Ricky nodded in acknowledgment, stepping forward and taking a moment to survey his surroundings.


    "Chores, you coming?" Ricky called out, noticing his friend''s momentary freeze.


    Chores flinched at the sound of his name but quickly nodded, hurrying to catch up with Ricky.


    *SIGH*


    Ricky sighed as he faced four statues, each holding a door painted in red, blue, yellow, and green.


    Turning around, he spotted a fifth statue clutching a rusted door, and without a second thought, he began to form psychic stairs to climb, completely disregarding the others.


    Chores and Alexander flinched, their eyes widening in realization as they hadn''t noticed the fifth door before, and their previous encounters had led them to believe there should only be four statues.


    "Riddle, hit me with it." Ricky climbed onto the ledge and gestured toward the statue.


    "What is both a father and a mother but neither a parent nor a child-"


    "A bir-"


    "A BIRD! HA! YOUNG RICKY, I AM VICTORIOUS IN THIS BOUT OF OURS!" Alexander exclaimed, his face alight with triumph.


    He had heard this riddle from Aristotle once before, and his enthusiasm spilled over as he eagerly interrupted Ricky''s train of thought.


    "Good for you," Ricky replied, his tone dripping with indifference as he brushed past Alexander, stepping through the rusted door.


    Chores, still struggling to pull himself up to the ledge, barely managed to catch the tail end of their exchange.


    He shot a glance at Alexander, who was still riding the high of his riddle victory, and couldn''t help but feel a twinge of frustration.


    "Hurry up, Chores!" Ricky called from within the doorway as he stepped into the next room as this time, the statues remained silent, their stone visages unyielding.


    Instead, a plaque caught his attention, its surface intricately carved with Greek text, the ancient letters shimmering in the dim light.


    "In a room adorned with seven statues tall, each one a guardian in stone, standing in a hall. One shows only lies, another shows only truths, the rest hold silence, their purpose unbeknownst. ''Which path is safe?'' Choose wisely, for truth or deceit may lead your fate astray." Alexander deciphered the text, Ricky made his way over to the two statues that flanked the room, each holding a mirror.


    On the left, Ricky glimpsed his and Alexander''s reflections, but on the right stood a plain black mirror that seemed to absorb all light, offering no image in return.


    Intrigued, Ricky scanned the room until his gaze settled on a statue positioned in a dimly lit corner.


    It exuded an air of mystery, its features obscured by shadows, beckoning him to uncover its secrets.


    Its features were obscured by shadows, lending an air of secrecy and intrigue to its presence in the room.


    "Come on." Ricky gestured to Chores trying to think and Alexander was just baffled by this one.


    "Why?" Alexander only asked but Ricky simply shrugged.


    "The one on the right showed darkness, while the other showed our reflection." Ricky explained, his words only deepening the confusion for Alexander and Chores.


    "Oh my god, listen, reflections are a lie because they''re inverted so it didn''t show us our image and the right statue showed only darkness, and this statue is the only one not enshrouded in light." Ricky explained with a slight sigh, gesturing toward the statue in the dim corner as Chores finally caught up to them.


    "Riddle, hit me with it," Ricky gestured toward the statue and as if responding to his bravado, the statue enshrouded in darkness shifted its stone eyes toward him.


    "In darkness I thrive, where light cannot touch. I mimic your form, yet I am not much. I stretch and shrink with the movement of light, dancing upon surfaces, fleeting and slight. What-"


    "A shadow." Ricky answered with a sigh, irritation creeping into his voice as he contemplated just how many more of these dumb riddles he would have to endure.


    "I-I do not believe it, you''re cheating!" Alexander accused, his eyes wide with disbelief as Ricky chuckled at the accusation, genuinely amused since he wasn''t cheating this time.


    "You don''t even believe that," Ricky hummed, a smirk playing on his lips as his lie detection instinct kicked in as Alexander clicked his tongue in frustration, clearly caught off guard.


    As they descended the seemingly endless stairs, the darkness enveloped them like a thick shroud, pressing in from all sides.


    Each step felt like a test of endurance until, at last, Ricky''s foot found solid ground, crossing the threshold into a new realm.


    "Who are you?"


    An unsettling, deadly voice resonated through the room as a figure emerged from the shadows.


    The figure''s eyes glowed a deep red, reminiscent of freshly spilled blood, and its fur was as white as snow, creating a stark contrast to the dark surroundings.


    The creature''s lower half was obscured by a rugged leather tunic, but what caught the eye was the large scar that marred its chest, a haunting reminder of past battles.


    *Boom*


    *Boom*


    The ground trembled beneath its powerful strides, each step echoing like thunder through the chamber.


    Towering above the three intruders, the creature regarded them with a predatory gaze, seeing only potential threats within their forms.


    Its imposing presence filled the space, a living embodiment of danger, as it positioned itself to defend its territory, the air thick with the promise of conflict.


    "I-It can''t be?" Alexander let out, knowing full well who this creature was and Ricky slowly pulled out his bow.


    "A minotaur?" Chores brought out his brass knuckles but Alexander slowly shook his head.


    "It''s not a minotaur, but THE minotaur." Alexander breath shook, knowing full well that this being should have been slain according to the myth.


    "Asterion."


    Author Note: Short Chapter cause I''m tired, the next will be long promise.

 Chapter 87 - 86: Asterion

    Chapter 87: Chapter 86: Asterion


    "Ho~" Asterion exhaled, his breath deep and resonant, his crimson eyes narrowing as they settled on the small figure perched on his shoulder.


    "It''s been centuries since someone last spoke my name." Asterion said, his tone laced with amusement.


    He leaned down, the sheer size of him casting a shadow over the three, his battle axe resting easily on his shoulder.


    Asterion''s gaze narrowed as he scrutinized the figures before him, a flicker of recognition sparking in his crimson eyes.


    "You have surprised me once again," Asterion remarked, his voice a low rumble filled with intrigue.


    "You''ve bypassed Daedalus''s riddles and now know my name. How curious indeed." Asterion tilted his head, studying the three with a mix of caution and interest, the air thick with tension as his imposing figure loomed over them.


    ''Young Ricky, we must run, now.'' Alexander''s voice echoed in Ricky''s mind due to their high favorability, a mix of urgency and dread seeping from his tone.


    ''But-''


    ''NO, MY KNOWLEDGE HAS NOT BEEN REQUIRED IN YOUR JOURNEY THUS FAR, BUT RIGHT NOW IT IS ESSENTIAL!'' Alexander screeched in Ricky''s mind, his urgency echoing as he observed Asterion''s amused expression, the creature clearly entertained by their unease.


    ''Long ago, Asterion was born from Poseidon''s wrath for the lack of tribute from the King of Crete. In his fury, Poseidon made the king''s wife fall in love with a magnificent white bull meant for sacrifice, resulting in the abomination known as the Minotaur, Asterion,'' Alexander explained, his breath quickening as he stared up at the imposing beast before them.


    ''As the forefather of all Minotaurs, he once terrorized Athens and the very city that imprisoned him, demanding tributes that brought its citizens into a constant state of fear.'' Alexander continued, his voice shaking with disbelief.


    ''It was only by the hands of the hero Theseus that he was slain, liberating the cities from his reign of terror. And yet, here he stands before us now!'' Alexander struggled to comprehend the impossibility of it all; even the gods had spoken of Asterion''s demise, and they rarely lied about such monumental events in the gerbils'' eyes.


    ''You''re no match for Asterion; you must leave before he goes berserk!'' Alexander urged, recognizing the reality of their situation.


    The wise commander understood that retreating to fight another day was not an act of cowardice, but a wise strategic move against an unbeatable foe.


    ''Holy sh*t, is it really that bad?'' Ricky asked, taken aback by Alexander''s panic as he had never seen him so rattled, even in the face of formidable foes.


    ''Yes.''


    "Hey, Asterion, was it?" Ricky asked, forcing a chuckle as he scrambled to come up with some half-baked excuse on the fly.


    "Listen, we came here on accident-"


    "There was no accident in our meeting; you solved those riddles and arrived here on purpose," Asterion said, cutting through Ricky''s flimsy excuse with a knowing shake of his head.


    "But-"


    "But you are not allowed in the vault because you have not received the approval of the previous masters." Asterion stated, his voice deep and unwavering as Alexander''s eyes widened in shock, while Chores felt his breath quickening, on the verge of hyperventilating.


    Chores had always prided himself on his strength, but standing before Asterion''s towering figure, he felt a deep-seated terror wash over him.


    The sheer might radiating from the beast made his gut twist in realization: he was no match for this formidable creature.


    Frozen in place, he found himself dwarfed by Asterion''s nonchalant stance, the weight of the monster''s presence suffocating.


    Chores struggled to catch his breath, his knees trembling beneath him as the overwhelming aura of power seeped into his very bones.


    "Turn back; you are not permitted here." Asterion gestured toward the door on their left as Ricky raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the creature''s earlier statement.


    "Oh, thank you for your mercy mighty Asterion-"


    "Wait, didn''t you say only masters were allowed in the vault?" Ricky cut into Alexander''s moment of gratitude, his voice sharp with sudden curiosity.


    "I did," Asterion replied with a nod, a faint smile curling his lips as the thought of an impending fight flickered in his mind.


    "Those masters wouldn''t be Paolo Bruno, Roberto Greco, and Marco Inzerillo?" Ricky asked, thinking that this might actually work.


    "Indeed, they are the masters of the vault." Asterion nodded, confirming Ricky''s suspicion causing him to spread his hands out.


    "And what happens when those masters of yours die?" Ricky asked, Asterion''s eyes squinting at his words.


    "Are you saying the masters have perished?" Asterion asked, his deep voice steady as he sought clarity.


    Ricky gave a silent nod, but the Minotaur''s expression darkened as he crossed his massive arms, contemplating the weight of the revelation.


    "Swear upon the river Styx, and then I''ll tell you," Asterion declared boldly, his eyes locked on Ricky as he glanced over at Alexander, uncertain at the significance.


    "If you lie, you die," Alexander chimed in, shaking his head with a grave seriousness.


    "But young Ricky-"


    "I swear upon the Styx," Ricky nodded without hesitation, though his soul lingered in the realm above, untouched by Hades'' grasp.


    Asterion chuckled, the sound low and knowing, as if amused by the fragile line Ricky had just walked.


    The air shifted, turning dangerously still as a cold chill swept through the room as Asterion''s eyes gleamed a menacing red, his massive form radiating a thick, scarlet aura.


    The atmosphere grew oppressive, and Ricky could feel the pressure mounting, forcing him to slowly activate his mental barriers in defense.


    "Good, good!" Asterion roared with laughter, the tension coiled in Ricky''s gut loosening at the Minotaur''s booming, joyous sound.


    ''It''s like standing on nails with this guy,'' Ricky sighed, wiping sweat from his forehead and nearby, Chores nearly buckled, his knees trembling under the weight of the atmosphere.


    "The old man set a rule for when no master appointed a successor," Asterion began, his lips curling into a bloody smile.


    "And since those three greedy humans could never agree on a successor to the vault, that rule will be enforced now." Asterion''s eyes blazed with a fierce, primal light, his smile gleaming with ferocious intensity as if the promise of battle ignited something deep within him.


    "Let me guess, I have to fight you?" Ricky asked, his voice carrying a resigned edge.


    Asterion laughed heartily but nodded in confirmation, the amusement still flickering in his eyes.


    "Young Ricky do not-"


    "No riddles, right?" Ricky pressed, seeking more clarity as Asterion nodded once again.


    "Indeed. But tell me," Asterion rumbled, his gaze narrowing slightly.


    "Do you still wish to fight me, even knowing what I am?" Asterion''s voice carried a challenge, as if testing the boldness of this human before him.


    "Kind of." Ricky shrugged, his nonchalant response earning a raised eyebrow from Asterion.


    Casually, he slicked a hand through his hair, unfazed by the towering Minotaur before him.


    "Honestly." Ricky continued, his eyes gleaming with greed.


    "If I''ve got to fight a walking, talking myth, then the rewards in that vault must be f*cking lucrative." Ricky''s gaze shifted past Asterion, locking onto the intricate vault behind him, desire gleaming in his expression.


    "Hmmmmm, I''ve never heard that reason before." Asterion mused, thoughtfully tapping his chin as he tried to recall any similar answer, but no memory came to mind.


    "So, lay it on me, what do I have to do to get rich quick?" Ricky snapped his fingers at the Minotaur, catching Asterion''s attention as his gaze shifted back.


    "Like, what are the rules or requirements or whatever?" Ricky asked, a hint of caution in his voice, wanting to know if death was part of the bargain.


    "First, the successor must be human. Second, you must prove to me that you''re worthy of inheriting Daedalus'' tomb. And lastly, if you complete those simple requirements, the rights to the vault are yours." Asterion laid out the conditions smoothly.


    Meanwhile, Alexander furiously scratched at Ricky''s cheek, his frustration clear as he tried to make a point.


    "You cannot, YOU CANNOT!" Alexander shouted on his shoulder, but his words fell on deaf ears as Ricky snatched the gerbil, tossing him to the pale and trembling Chores.


    "Hold ''em, will ya?" Ricky said, though it wasn''t really a question, his focus was already back on the towering Minotaur before him.


    "So, what do I have to do to prove I''m worthy?" Ricky asked, rotating his shoulder as Asterion slowly rose to his full height.


    "You must deliver a worthy attack and defend against one of my own," Asterion replied, his voice calm yet commanding, laying out the simple but high-stakes challenge.


    "That''s it?"


    "That is it."


    Ricky frowned, crossing his arms, feeling like this was a little too easy. Still, he shrugged and cracked his neck, deciding to roll with it.


    "You may attack when you are sufficiently ready." Asterion gestured, clearly unfazed and far from intimidated.


    "Alright, if you say so," Ricky nodded, using the moment to form a square box around Asterion, aiming to trap him.


    Then, he quickly equipped himself with all of his gear, preparing for what was about to come next.


    However, just as Ricky reached for his storage key, he paused, the frustration from his earlier battle still gnawing at him.


    It wasn''t the consequences of going into a berserk state while wielding the ebony blade that bothered him, it was the unsettling aftereffects when his fingers didn''t interface within the handle.


    Each time he used it, it felt like his psyche was slipping, piece by piece, further away from him.


    Even now, with the blade absent from his reality, Ricky felt his mind teetering on the brink.


    The connection to the ebony blade lingered, its presence still palpable, even though it was chained away in another space and that thought unnerved him, a reminder of the power it held over him.


    After a moment of hesitation, Ricky made his decision. He would face Asterion without the sword, ready to confront the challenge ahead on his own terms.


    Instead of the blade, the solar flare bow materialized in Ricky''s grasp, its power coursing through him as he locked eyes with Asterion.


    With focused determination, he pulled back the bowstring, harnessing the radiant energy of the sun to forge a mighty, shining arrow.


    But he didn''t stop there.


    Ricky drew the bowstring back even further, his muscles tensing as the solar power was channeled into a specific point, an immense surge of energy into the arrow.


    The veins in his arms bulged, pulsing like live wires, straining against the pressure as if they might burst from the sheer force he was harnessing.


    Each heartbeat sent a rush of power coursing through him, igniting a fire that spread from his core to the tips of his fingers.


    As he focused, the air around him crackled with energy, shimmering like heat rising from asphalt on a sweltering day.


    Asterion observed the artifact in Ricky''s hands with growing intrigue, his expression shifting as he recognized the potential threat.


    However, even as his body screamed under the strain, Ricky clenched his teeth, sweat pouring down his face in rivulets as he forced the bowstring back even further. Every muscle trembled with effort, and his grip tightened around the weapon, determination coursing through him like a wildfire.


    With every ounce of strength he could muster, he pulled the bow back, intent on unleashing its full power.


    But instead of releasing the arrow, he turned his focus to the box encasing Asterion. Channeling the energy that surged within him, he ignited a brilliant blaze, flames licking the edges of the confinement.


    The inferno erupted, filling the space with a searing heat, as Ricky sought to cook the Minotaur alive in a storm of solar energy.


    The flames crackled and roared, casting flickering shadows as they danced around Asterion, illuminating the determination etched across Ricky''s face.


    As the smoke and embers swirled, Ricky''s constructs sprang into action, bringing down sharp blades one after another within this hellscape.


    The air was thick with heat and tension, and each blade sliced through the remnants of the explosion, aiming for Asterion with unrelenting precision.


    Ricky''s left eye strained under the exertion, becoming bloodshot as he pushed his limits.


    The energy he had unleashed was taxing, every fiber of his being protesting against the weight of the power he wielded.


    Despite the agony coursing through him, he focused, channeling his will into the constructs that whirled around Asterion.


    Finally, he released a shaky breath, feeling the pressure of the battle weigh heavily on his chest as his fingers holding the bowstring slipped free.


    *WHOOOOSH*


    *BOOOOOOM*


    Ricky released the bowstring and lowered his barrier, his heart racing as the sun arrow shot forth with blinding speed.


    It collided with Asterion in an instant, detonating the entire room in a mighty explosion that sent shockwaves rippling through the air.


    The blast echoed with a deafening roar, dust and black fog engulfing the space, obscuring all vision as debris rained down.


    The cacophony of the explosion roared in Ricky''s ears, and he shielded his face from the flying particles.


    As the dust gradually began to settle, the chaos receded, revealing Asterion still standing amid the wreckage.


    He remained unfazed, a fierce grin plastered across his face, the scarlet aura surrounding him flickering but intact.


    The Minotaur''s eyes glinted with amusement, as if the explosive display had only ignited his excitement for the battle ahead.


    Baffled, Ricky watched as Asterion glanced down at his chest, where a small black spot sizzled on his right pec.


    The laughter erupted from the Minotaur, a deep, booming sound that reverberated through the room, mocking Ricky''s efforts.


    "Young human, you really pack a punch!" Asterion bellowed, wiping his chest with a smirk, his laughter echoing like thunder.


    The compliment dripped with a mistaken mockery, and it only fueled the fire of frustration in Ricky''s gut.


    ''F*ck, I should''ve used the blade,'' Ricky thought, the weight of his arrogance crashing down on him like a tidal wave.


    Every ounce of overconfidence that had propelled him into this moment now felt like a bitter reminder of his mistake.


    The absence of the ebony blade gnawed at him; it could have tipped the scales in his favor, but now he stood exposed and vulnerable, his earlier bravado crumbling under Asterion''s towering presence.


    "I approve of your strength," Asterion roared with surprising delight, his laughter booming around the room as he let Ricky catch his breath. The Minotaur''s smile widened, an unsettling mix of mirth and menace.


    "Now, if you manage to survive one of my attacks, then you will be granted the title of successor to the vault," Asterion continued, his tone shifting to one of grave seriousness.


    The weight of Asterion''s words hung heavily in the air, and Ricky felt a knot tighten in his stomach.


    Ricky gulped, the sound echoing in the tense silence as his gaze flicked to the imposing axe strapped to Asterion''s back.


    The weapon loomed large, a grim reminder of the power the Minotaur wielded as doubts crept into Ricky''s mind, but he shook them off, steeling himself.


    "Oh, don''t worry, human; I won''t be using my axe, but my fist." Asterion said, pointing confidently at his massive hand as Ricky nodded, a rush of relief washing over him.


    ''Oh, thank christ.'' Ricky thought, exhaling a breath he didn''t realize he''d been holding as he watched the Minotaur loosen his muscles, each movement emphasizing the raw power contained within his frame.


    "Would you like some time to process my oncoming attack?" Asterion offered politely, his tone unexpectedly considerate.


    It was clear he recognized that this human needed a moment to prepare for what was to come.


    "I mean, if you wouldn''t mind?" Ricky gestured toward Asterion, his voice steady despite the tension building in the room.


    He took a couple of deep breaths, centering himself, then began to form a force field around him.


    With each breath, he conjured another layer, fortifying his defenses.


    One more, and then another, as he pushed himself further, crafting various walls in front of him, each shimmering with energy and determination.


    But soon, the mental strain became palpable, pressing against his mind like a weight.


    He could feel himself nearing his limit, the effort of maintaining such elaborate barriers exceeding his capacity.


    ''Just focus, focus.'' Ricky reminded himself, gritting his teeth against the fatigue threatening to cloud his judgment.


    This was his moment to prepare, and he needed every ounce of strength he could muster to withstand Asterion''s impending attack.


    *Tink*


    *Tink*


    "Very impressive; you wield powers, yet I sense no divinity. Humans have become quite interesting," Asterion remarked, lightly flicking at the shimmering barrier with a bemused expression as his gaze shifted back to Ricky, who was bracing himself for the imminent attack.


    "Are you ready, human?" Asterion inquired again, his voice a blend of curiosity and anticipation.


    Ricky met his gaze and nodded firmly, determination etched across his face as the air around them crackled with tension as both combatants prepared to engage in the clash that would determine Ricky''s fate.


    "Prepare yourself for strength you''ve never seen." Asterion''s words were bold, but his actions spoke louder.


    His very movements radiated unrestrained power, the kind only the mythic forefather of all Minotaurs could possess.


    The sinew of his muscles coiled like a tightened spring as he wound his fist back, the atmosphere around him humming with raw physical energy and then, with a terrifying precision, he unleashed his punch toward Ricky.


    The impact was immediate and devastating.


    Ricky''s carefully constructed psychic barriers, once formidable, shattered like fragile glass under the sheer force of Asterion''s strike.


    Every layer of defense Ricky had painstakingly erected crumbled in a cascade of failure.


    No mystical power, no divine energy fueled the Minotaur''s attack, only the primordial might that had long defined his existence.


    Ricky could feel the consequences the moment Asterion''s fist connected with his mental constructs.


    The psychic backlash was excruciating with blood began to trickle from his eyes, nose, ears, and mouth as if his very body rebelled against the force he had failed to contain.


    His mind screamed in agony as the punch''s impact rippled through his nervous system, the pain unlike anything he had ever experienced before.


    The sheer magnitude of Asterion''s blow propelled Ricky backward with tremendous speed.


    Ricky felt the world blur around him, his body careening uncontrollably through the air, before crashing violently against the stone wall behind him.


    The impact rattled his bones, and the breath was knocked from his lungs as everything around him went dark for a brief, disorienting moment as the room seemed to spin, the weight of the punch leaving him on the verge of unconsciousness.


    But through the haze of pain, Ricky remained defiant, his body refusing to give in despite the brutal onslaught.


    *BOOOM*


    *COUGH*


    Ricky''s body collided with the wall with a bone-crunching force, the sickening crack of his ribs shattering against the stone echoing through the chamber.


    Blood gushed from his mouth, spraying the air as the sheer impact forced his body deeper into the wall''s unforgiving surface.


    His armor, once gleaming with a knightly pride, now felt like a cage, trapping his breath as his chest caved in from the blow.


    The force of the collision sent a shockwave through the room, a massive plume of dust and debris erupting outward like a storm.


    For a moment, everything fell into complete and utter silence, the kind that chills the soul.


    No sound could penetrate the suffocating stillness as the dust settled, slowly revealing the aftermath.


    As the cloud cleared, Ricky was slumped lifelessly against the wall, his once-proud form now battered and broken.


    His knightly attire, which had withstood countless battles, hung tattered and bloodstained. His chest barely moved, each shallow breath a struggle against the unbearable pain in his broken ribs.


    The room stood frozen in the eerie silence, a stark contrast to the brutal violence that had just occurred.


    *GASP*


    A sharp gasp tore through the suffocating silence, Ricky''s body convulsing as waves of excruciating pain pulsed through his battered form.


    Every breath felt like fire in his lungs, his broken ribs sending stabbing jolts of agony with each shallow inhale.


    Ricky''s muscles trembled uncontrollably, barely able to keep him upright against the wall.


    "Ohhhhhhhhhhh~" Ricky groaned, his voice ragged with pain, the sound guttural and strained.


    Ricky''s trembling hands desperately tore away the dented, caved-in pieces of his armor, each jagged edge causing fresh cuts as he struggled to breathe.


    His teeth, pearly white but now stained with the deep red of his own blood, clenched together in a grimace.


    Ricky''s chest heaved, fighting for air as his body tried to recover from the catastrophic blow.


    "Human, what is your name so that I may engrave it into my mind," Asterion''s voice boomed, but Ricky was too dazed, too engulfed in the torment that coursed through him to even register the Minotaur''s words.


    "My f*cking spleen~" Ricky groaned, half-conscious, his voice a mixture of pain and frustration.


    Ricky threw his battered helmet aside, the clang of metal echoing faintly in the vast chamber, taking away from the ugly and gruesome sight of blood streaming down his face.


    His hands instinctively clutched at his body, where the slow healing process had begun, but it was far too sluggish to dull the searing pain rippling through every fractured bone and torn muscle.


    Every second felt like an eternity of suffering, his body trying to knit itself back together, but the agony remained, burning, relentless, and unforgiving.


    "SLICK!"


    "YOUNG RICKY!"


    Chores and Alexander rushed to Ricky''s side, their tiny forms barely making a difference as they tried to console him. Ricky, however, let his head fall back against the cold stone wall with a thud, groaning in despair.


    "I just wanted to f*ck a bunch of Italian girls, and instead, I got my ribs crushed by a f*cking talking bull man~" Ricky continued to whine, his voice drenched in agony and frustration.


    His bloodshot eyes locked onto Asterion, who only shrugged, completely unbothered by Ricky''s complaints.


    There was no sympathy in the Minotaur''s massive frame, just the stoic, unyielding nature of a mythic being who saw this as another trial.


    Ricky''s gaze shifted to the ceiling, his body still wracked with pain, while Chores and Alexander looked at each other helplessly, unsure how to comfort him in a moment like this.


    "Slick, are you-"


    "Can we all just sit in silence for a while? I really don''t want to do anything else..." Ricky groaned, raising his hand weakly to stop Chores and Alexander from doing anything further.


    His voice was hoarse, his body wracked with pain as he slumped against the wall, eyes barely open.


    Chores and Alexander exchanged a glance, nodding slowly, respecting Ricky''s wish for peace.


    They quietly settled beside him, watching as Ricky''s chest heaved with shallow breaths, the aftermath of his brutal encounter weighing heavy on them all.


    Even Asterion, still standing a short distance away, remained silent, as if granting the battered human a moment of reprieve in the stillness.


    3 hours later,


    *Crack*


    The last of his ribs painfully snapped back into place, leaving Ricky a complete mess as he wiped the dried blood from his tear ducts with a grunt.


    "Ugh~" Ricky groaned, pushing himself to his feet, though his side throbbed with every step, still far from mended.


    Limping toward Asterion, who stood waiting with that same calm, patient demeanor, Ricky couldn''t help but feel the weight of exhaustion bearing down on him.


    After a moment, he sighed, giving in to his body''s protests, and sat down next to the massive minotaur, catching his breath as silence settled between them.


    Asterion glanced down at him, offering no words but watching with a mixture of curiosity and perhaps a faint glimmer of respect for Ricky''s endurance.


    "Once again, let me introduce myself. I am Asterion, forefather of all minotaurs, guardian of Daedalus'' tomb, and keeper of the labyrinth''s secrets." Asterion said, his voice carrying a weight of centuries past as Ricky gave a weak nod, still catching his breath.


    "Yeah, and I''m the guy who just got his ribs turned into dust by the forefather of all minotaurs." Ricky let out a dry laugh, rubbing his side again.


    "That is a very lacking introduction. When you present yourself, it should be with strength, with titles that carry weight, not how I utterly crushed your body." Asterion lectured, his tone firm yet oddly fatherly.


    "Precisely." Alexander, who had been introducing himself with a flourish since Ricky first met him, resonated deeply with Asterion''s words.


    *Sigh*


    "Ricky Luciano, but my friends call me Slick," Ricky sighed lightly, extending his hand despite the immense pain still radiating through his body.


    Asterion raised a brow at the gesture, but then carefully took Ricky''s much smaller hand in his own, which dwarfed Ricky''s by at least four times.


    "Very well, human Ricky Luciano who goes by Slick." Asterion replied, his deep voice resonating in the chamber.


    With a sigh, Ricky leaned back against the stone wall, wincing slightly from the lingering ache. He couldn''t help but chuckle softly, despite the pain.


    "So what''s your deal, man? Who just guards a vault out of their free will?" Ricky asked, a frown creasing his forehead as he regarded Asterion with genuine curiosity.


    The question had haunted him since he''d been named the successor three hours earlier.


    It honestly didn''t make sense to him how this mythical creature ended up in some random tomb, serving as a sentinel for treasure.


    There had to be a story behind it and since he was nursing his injuries, he had nothing better to do than quench his budding curiosity.


    "It is because of Daedalus'' grace that I am still breathing today, which is why I honor his memory by guarding his resting place for his legacy," Asterion said, settling down on a large rock next to Ricky, his massive form dwarfing the human beside him.


    "Didn''t he entrap you in that labyrinth?" Ricky asked, brow furrowing in confusion after hearing the story from Alexander.


    But Asterion merely shook his head, a bemused expression crossing his rugged features.


    "That myth the foolish king made up isn''t how the story really went." Asterion clarified, his voice steady and firm, a note of disappointment weaving through his words.


    Ricky raised an eyebrow at the revelation, glancing at Alexander, who looked as if his world was shattering.


    The famous general, who had spent countless hours studying the words of his gods, convinced of their truth, and now he felt the foundation of his beliefs shake beneath him.


    "Well, my body hasn''t healed yet, so I''m all ears," Ricky said, grimacing slightly as he shifted his position.


    Pain still throbbed through his ribs, but his curiosity about Asterion''s past overshadowed his discomfort.


    Ricky also wanted to understand why this formidable minotaur chose to guard a vault that he now somehow owned.


    Asterion seemed to take a moment to gather his thoughts, his gaze drifting into the distance as if he were searching for something lost in time.


    "It is true that the king did not pay the tribute owed to Poseidon." Asterion began, his deep voice reverberating in the silence of the tomb.


    "As a result, my mother was cursed by the god, leading to my creation through her unnatural union with the white bull meant to be the offering." Asterion eyes slowly gazed down at floor, a well of sadness dropping into the hollow embrace that was his pupils.


    "So, you were born from a curse? That f*cking sucks." Ricky replied, his brow furrowed in sympathy.


    "Indeed, it was a curse that shaped my existence. But it is false that I demanded tributes from the city of Athens." Asterion nodded slowly, a hint of sadness washing over his rugged features as he closed his eyes, letting out a heavy sigh of regret.


    "When I was born, it wasn''t the king who asked Daedalus to construct the labyrinth but my mother as the king wanted to kill me for the abomination I was, a creature born from a curse." Asterion continued, his voice steady yet heavy with the weight of his past.


    Ricky''s brow furrowed as he absorbed Asterion''s words, the brutality of his beginnings striking a chord within him.


    "But my mother convinced him, begged him, with words that inspired the belief that I could provide great military strength to him, which made the king relent." Asterion pressed on, his eyes darkening with memories.


    "Damn,. Ricky breathed, feeling the turmoil of Asterion''s history wash over him like a cold wave.


    "But even then, left alive at the whims of the king, I was to be imprisoned and tortured on a daily basis due to the king''s orders." Asterion''s voice grew somber, each word laced with pain.


    "My mother couldn''t stand the sight of it and once again, tricked the king into constructing a labyrinth as a means to house my growing and formidable figure." Asterion let out another sigh, continuing with the story.


    "Daedalus took pity on me and constructed his greatest creation, not to shield the outside world from my wrath, but to shield me from the fear born of human arrogance." Asterion continued, his voice a deep rumble that resonated through the stone chamber.


    As he spoke, Asterion''s large, calloused hand drifted to the scar that marred his chest, the only wound on his being that showed itself as a jagged line that told a story of pain and survival.


    "But the truth of my existence came about from the same foolish king who started using my notoriety as leverage in order to force tributes from the neighboring city, Athens." Asterion continued, his voice heavy with the weight of history.


    "I had no idea of these events and had spent my time alone thanks to Daedalus'' creation. The walls that were meant to protect me had also become my prison." Asterion paused, allowing the silence to settle, the air thick with his unspoken sorrow.


    "However, isolation was lonely, and when the tributes arrived, the king sent the women into the labyrinth. Though they usually perished through their own hands, not mine." Asterion recounted, bitterness creeping into his tone.


    "I was seen as a monster, a fate determined by the whims of a king who could not see beyond his own greed with maidens taking their own lives to escape my company." Asterion''s voice softened as he continued towards a warm memory.


    "But one maiden made her way to my dwelling out of her own curiosity rather than becoming a tribute, and it quite shocked me. She was clever and brave, unlike any I had encountered. I never thought someone could solve the labyrinth, especially a mere human." Asterion''s words were filled with a hint of wonder colored his words, and Ricky leaned in closer, captivated by the story unfolding before him.


    "Well, I fell in love with her," Asterion admitted, his usually booming voice faltering.


    "And she became pregnant with my child." Asterion spoke until his expression turned fierce, and he clenched his fist, the knuckles whitening under the pressure.


    "Then that bastard came and ruined everything." Asterion gritted his teeth, his eyes darkening to a deeper shade of red, a fiery glow that hinted at the rage boiling within him.


    "Poseidon didn''t merely punish the king of Crete but used it as an excuse to one day prop his bastard up, to portray him as a hero." Asterion''s words dripped with venom, the weight of betrayal palpable in his voice as he recounted the events that had sealed his fate.


    "From the start, my entire life was to be a mere myth to bolster the name of his bastard." "From the start, my entire life was to be a mere myth to bolster the name of his bastard," Asterion confessed, his words striking Alexander with a painful clarity.


    "But Theseus he-"


    "He didn''t come alone, like the myth says, but instead came with a full army of horsemen that Poseidon had sent to help subdue me." Asterion''s voice resonated with an unshakable gravity as the revelation hung in the air.


    "You can understand him?" Ricky blurted out, astonished that he could grasp Alexander''s squeaks.


    "I can understand any language; I have the All-Tongue," Asterion replied, his pride momentarily shining through the pain of his past.


    "But Theseus slayed you with one slash, didn''t he?" Alexander pushed Ricky''s cheek to the side, unbelieving in his words, but Asterion shook his head slowly, a bitter smile crossing his lips.


    "No. Theseus commanded the dozens of horsemen given to him by Poseidon to wear down my strength until I was held down." Asterion clarified, his voice steady but tinged with sadness.


    "Then he struck you down-"


    "No, he made me watch as he cut off the head of my wife before my eyes and then slashed his sword across my chest." Asterion''s voice trembled with emotion as he stroked the scar that marred his chest, an aggrieved gaze reflecting the deep wounds of his past.


    Each word dripped with pain, and Ricky could feel the weight of that agony pressing down on them both.


    "Honestly, d*ck move to kill your pregnant wife," Ricky muttered, though he would have mirrored Asterion''s actions in a fight, minus the torturing and killing of a defenseless woman without a good reason.


    "How did you survive?" Alexander crawled over to him, clearly intrigued by the tale. He had heard of the minotaur''s legendary resilience.


    "I didn''t." Asterion replied, a heavy sadness lacing his words.


    "At that time, I perished to his blade. But I was revived thanks to Daedalus." Asterion sighed, turning his gaze to Ricky, as if searching for understanding in the human''s eyes.


    "Daedalus had tried to save me through a backdoor he designed, but by the time he arrived, I had already been slain." Asterion''s gaze dropped, his expression heavy with memories. He fell silent for a moment, reflecting on the past.


    "My child survived, and I was revived to the sound of his crying." Asterion closed his eyes, the weight of nostalgia and sorrow evident in his posture.


    "Out of loyalty to Daedalus for saving me, I followed him, raising my son during our travels until he chose to find his own way." Asterion''s fingers traced the handle of the axe he wielded at that time, a silent testament to the burdens he carried.


    "But, Daedalus was mortal and growing old."


    "After he was banished from Greece, he settled here in Sicily, and I''ve been watching over him all the years he watched over me." Asterion smiled, standing tall as he gazed into the depths of the vault.


    "Don''t you ever want to leave, to seek your revenge?" Ricky asked, his voice tinged with curiosity as Asterion shook his head, a thoughtful expression crossing his face.


    "Revenge is a hollow pursuit. It wouldn''t bring back what was lost, nor would it ease the burden of my past." Asterion paused, his eyes reflecting a deep wisdom.


    "To kill a demigod is to invoke the wrath of their parents. I gave up on revenge long ago and moved on," Asterion replied, his voice steady but tinged with the weight of his past.


    He knew the repercussions of such an act; if he were to slay Theseus, Poseidon would undoubtedly retaliate against all minotaurs, condemning them to suffer for his actions.


    "Then what about the outside world? Don''t you get lonely down here all by yourself?" Ricky asked, genuinely baffled that someone could find solace in a life spent in this cave.


    "Loneliness is a choice. I find comfort in my memories and in the legacy I uphold. The outside world may be vibrant, but it is also chaotic and filled with strife. Here, I have peace, and that is worth more to me than the company of those who may not understand my journey." Asterion looked thoughtfully at Ricky, as if inviting him to contemplate the value of purpose over mere existence.


    "Humans will never accept me, nor will I ever find the peace I have now outside these walls. My pride doesn''t allow me to give up on the life I''ve carved out for myself," Asterion continued, his voice firm but reflective as he gazed into the distance, as if seeing beyond the stone confines of the vault.


    "And when I''m at my darkest, I relish in all the good memories I had and-"


    "That just seems like a load of bullsh*t," Ricky scoffed, frustration bubbling to the surface.


    He stood up abruptly, determination coursing through him as he strode into the vault, leaving Chores and Alexander momentarily stunned.


    "Um, Ricky, I don''t think it''s a good idea to provoke the talking mythical minotaur." Chores ventured cautiously, a nervous laugh escaping his lips as he tried to coax Ricky into reconsidering.


    But as he watched Ricky''s boldness, he quickly shook his head, resigning himself to the impending chaos.


    "Listen, Asterion, you can tell yourself that you''re alright with living this HORRIBLE existence guarding a f*cking vault, but I''m not going to believe you," Ricky scoffed, pulling out his inventory key as he approached the treasury of the three mafia families.


    What the Bruno, Greco, and Inzerillo families didn''t trust the banks or the outside world to guard was all right here, in this vault.


    Artifacts, jewels, art, precious metals, heirlooms, and gold were scattered neatly before a mound of bookshelves, each item whispering tales of opulence and intrigue.


    "Chores, help me out, would you?" Ricky asked, eyeing the ebony blade thrashing wildly in its scabbard, looking like a fish out of water.


    It couldn''t move in any way, bound tightly by the enchanted scabbard, creating a strangely comical scene.


    He hesitated for a moment, reaching out toward the sword, but then retracted his hand.


    The unsettling aura it exuded was overwhelming, a dark energy that gnawed at his senses before deciding to take a break from its influence felt like a necessary retreat.


    Chores glanced at the frowning Asterion but nodded, making his way over to the neatly stacked gold bars, which numbered around 500. The sight of the glimmering metal sparked a mix of excitement and apprehension in Ricky.


    In 1933, the price of gold was approximately $20.67 per troy ounce. A standard gold bar weighed 400 troy ounces, meaning each bar was worth about $8,268.


    With 500 bars, that totaled around $4.1 million in gold alone as Chores began to carefully lift a bar, Ricky surveyed the rest of the vault.


    The various other precious valuables scattered around the artifacts, jewels, and heirlooms which added to the staggering wealth contained within these stone walls.


    In every sense, this vault was a war fund meant for taking on the Maggia, but that plan had spiraled into chaos with Ricky''s quest for revenge.


    "I do not understand your words, Ricky Luciano known as Slick-"


    "What I mean is, you''re literally dead even though you''re alive," Ricky spoke from experience, glancing at Asterion with a mixture of sympathy and frustration.


    As he grabbed bags filled with jewels, carefully stowing them in his inventory, he couldn''t help but feel the weight of the minotaur''s story pressing down on him.


    Chores followed suit, straining a little as he carried a stack of gold bars, his eyes darting between the vault''s treasures and Asterion.


    "But I-"


    "Listen I''m not arguing with you, but think about it, no one knows you''re alive, you sit underground alone and isolated in a tomb." Ricky was oddly making too much sense to even Alexander.


    Right now, in Ricky''s view, Asterion reminded him of how he used to be in his past life as he could see the flicker of a kindred spirit in the minotaur''s eyes, a reflection of his own past struggles.


    In a sense, all Asterion was doing was drifting through the day, lugging his heavy, ancient body through the tiresome hours, never truly living but merely existing.


    "You''re no better than dead. The point of life is to enjoy yourself, and you''re here, doing nothing," Ricky complained, exasperation creeping into his voice.


    He couldn''t fathom how this minotaur, with all his strength and history, could possess so much yet accomplish so little with it.


    "What am I supposed to do, go out into the world and be rejected once again-"


    "You see, that''s the problem: if you go around saying life is sh*t, then life will always be sh*t," Ricky said, picking up a wrapped piece of art and storing it in his inventory.


    "What about this vault, I am to guard all the things-"


    "Not anymore, did you see this? It''s my personal space that no one except me is allowed into, and it''s literally the same width and height as this place." Ricky gestured, prompting Asterion to look into the space and see the 36x36 room.


    "But hey, now you can guard an empty tomb of your friend. How noble." Ricky was being a bit of a jerk to Asterion, but from his perspective, he could both understand and not understand the minotaur''s feelings.


    Ricky was the type of person who pursued his whims without hesitation, embracing life with an infectious enthusiasm that made every day an adventure.


    He reveled in the thrill of spontaneity, often diving headfirst into experiences that brought him joy.


    Whether it was a wild night out with random, a last-minute road trip, or simply indulging in his favorite vices, he made it a point to enjoy life to the fullest, never wanting to look back and regret missed opportunities.


    However, beneath this seemingly carefree exterior lay a more complex reality.


    In his past, Ricky had often wielded his pursuit of pleasure as a shield, using it to justify his reckless behavior.


    He would convince himself that the next thrill would fill the emptiness he felt inside, but instead, it only deepened his sense of dissatisfaction.


    He''d leap from one distraction to another, but each fleeting moment of joy ultimately left him feeling unfulfilled.


    It was a cycle of escapism that prevented him from confronting his deeper issues, and in time, he came to recognize that this pattern was toxic.


    It took two lifetimes to realize that true fulfillment required more than just momentary pleasures, it required growth, reflection, and the courage to face his past.


    "About the books Slick-" Chores was about to inquire, but Ricky was already in a sneering mode to answer politely.


    "Who cares about these books-"


    "''Books?'' This is Daedalus'' legacy!" Asterion shouted, his voice ringing with fury as he confronted Ricky''s mockery of his existence and the derision of his friend''s life''s work.


    "And what do they say?" Ricky suddenly remembered, seeing a bunch of scriptures and books as Asterion hesitated but walked into the vault.


    "These books are Daelus life, they show how he went about creating his works and-"


    "Alright, which ones are the diaries of your friend?" Ricky asked, his curiosity piqued as he contemplated the wealth of knowledge contained in the vault.


    Asterion hesitated for a moment, almost seeking permission in Ricky''s eyes and watched him nod, a subtle encouragement, and the minotaur moved forward, his large hands carefully arranging the books.


    Ricky then picked up the remaining volumes of Daedlus'' legacy and tossed them into the inventory space, the sound of their landing echoing softly in the cavernous room.


    "But thought you were going to give all these books-"


    "I said I would give them the books, not all of them," Ricky explained, his tone firm but not unkind.


    "Besides, he only wants the diaries, so why would I just hand over everything for free?" Ricky shrugged, knowing that he wanted to keep that knowledge for himself if by some chance he needed to someday.


    Asterion remained silent for a long time, his gaze fixed on the piles of treasures being placed into the storage space.


    Ricky, meanwhile, glanced up and suddenly found himself staring at a pair of wings unfurling from the shadows.


    "Is that?" Ricky asked, pointing at the pair of wings elegantly hung atop a statue of Daedalus.


    "Yes, those are the wings he crafted that allowed a mortal to fly." Asterion informed him, a hint of reverence in his voice as he watched Ricky approach the statue.


    "Finally, I can fly!" Ricky exclaimed, his eyes lighting up with excitement as he reached out and grasped the wings, feeling the light feathers grace along his fingertips.


    Although Ricky could still technically fly, it was a slow, laborious process but now, with the wings before him, he envisioned a way to propel himself at a much faster trajectory.


    As he put them on, the brown-feathered wings melded seamlessly into his armor, and to his surprise, he felt a connection to them, a sense of control that had eluded him before.


    Flapping his wings with a burst of excitement, Ricky launched himself into the air as he soared higher than ever, though his movements were clumsy and uncoordinated.


    The thrill of flight surged through him, but just as quickly as it came, it ended in an awkward landing.


    He crashed flat on his face, the impact jarring but somehow exhilarating as itt was the longest flight he had experienced yet, and despite the embarrassment, Ricky couldn''t help but laugh.


    "This is awesome," Ricky whispered, gazing up at Asterion, the excitement still bubbling inside him.


    "Hey, are you sure this is all you want in life?" Ricky asked again, his voice sincere as he knew he could use a strong ally like Asterion on his side.


    Chores froze at this question, casting a glance at Asterion since to him, Asterion was an upgraded version of himself, a towering, formidable figure that seemed capable of anything.


    The thought of being overshadowed made him feel vulnerable, like he could be discarded at any moment.


    "I-I will not leave," Asterion replied, shaking his head as his voice was hesitant, but there was a determination in his eyes that suggested he was making a decision.


    Chores felt a wave of relief wash over him, though he couldn''t quite understand why.


    "But wasn''t your whole thing about not leaving this place because no one will accept you? Because I think you''re awesome," Ricky confessed, his hands outstretched toward the surprised Asterion while gesturing towards him.


    "But I am a beast-"


    "So what, you say no one would accept you for who you are, but I literally just did that and proved you wrong. So what does that make you after all?" Ricky asked, his voice unwavering, the challenge hanging heavily in the air.


    Asterion stood still, momentarily rendered speechless as the weight of Ricky''s words sunk in, forcing him to confront the harsh reality he had been avoiding.


    He had spent so long hiding behind his own walls, convinced that the world outside would never accept him for who he truly was.


    Despite the tremendous power he possessed, the ability to crush Ricky like a bug if he wished, Asterion spoke as if they were equals, the distance between them narrowing with every word.


    "I''ll tell you what it makes you: a coward," Ricky pointed out, his voice sharp and unyielding.


    The words hung in the air like a thunderclap, and Alexander and Chores immediately went deathly pale, the gravity of the accusation settling heavily upon them.


    "What?" Asterion''s eyes blazed a fiery red, a mix of anger and surprise flashing across his face.


    Despite the intensity of the moment, Ricky didn''t flinch; instead, he took a step closer, undeterred by the minotaur''s imposing presence.


    "I said you''re a coward," Ricky repeated, his voice steady and firm.


    "And I''m speaking from experience." Ricky poked at Asterion''s stomach with a playful jab, a daring act that only heightened the tension in the air.


    ''Y-Young Rick stop-''


    "You foolish human, you do not know my pain-"


    "I swear on the River Styx, I know your pain," Ricky declared, raising his hand in an earnest gesture that shocked Alexander into silence.


    The gravity of his words hung in the air, a stark contrast to the tension that had built between them.


    Instead of crumbling under the weight of Asterion''s intensity, Ricky remained steadfast, his resolve unwavering as he confronted the minotaur head-on.


    "Honestly, at first, I wasn''t going to say anything because having a guard minotaur seemed really cool. But the more you talked, the more disgusted I became at how much I saw myself in you." Ricky was straightforward, his gaze fixed on Asterion since all he could see was someone who kept running away from his problems, like himself.


    Ricky still had a lot of personal growth ahead of him, but one thing was clear: he wasn''t going to run away like the coward he once was.


    Instead, he would confront his problems head-on, regardless of whether they led to his demise.


    It might have seemed foolish, but he was still navigating how he wanted to live his life, especially after seeing it from a fresh perspective.


    "I know what it''s like to just run away from everything and hide behind this veil of responsibility, but I couldn''t do it anymore." Ricky said, stepping back slightly to meet Asterion''s gaze directly.


    "I mean, I''m no noble soul. I drink, I lust, I steal, and I''m never satisfied with what I have." Ricky admitted, gesturing to himself, fully aware of his flaws.


    "But from my experience, you reach a point where you keep running away and starting over that you don''t enjoy anything anymore. You''re always focused on your next escape, living in the moment until it slips away, and then you just run to start it all over again." Ricky knew he shouldn''t have insight into what this old minotaur had gone through, but it angered him to his very core to stay silent and walk away.


    "But what if you know that everything will go astray once more?" Asterion asked, fully aware that peace had never been part of his existence once unveiled to the world.


    "Then have fun with it, man!" Ricky replied with a baffled laugh, as if it were the most obvious answer in the world.


    "Fun?"


    "Yeah, Asterion, you think I don''t know that every time I do something new, I could end up in a situation where I get my ass kicked?" Ricky laughed, fully aware he was in that exact predicament at the moment.


    "I mean, I started this trip on a whim, fought a f*cking noble vampire, met an old friend of my grandpop''s, got revenge for that very same grandpop, raided the loot of the people who killed him, and then met THE FIRST FCKING MINOTAUR!" Ricky exclaimed, pointing dramatically at Asterion before spreading his arms wide.


    "I could''ve never done any of this, and no one would ever know about this cool experience if I had just stayed in Abrilla and waited for some dumbass vampire!" Ricky shouted at Asterion, who didn''t quite grasp the last part but understood the overall message.


    "But what if I die?"


    "ASTERION, YOU''VE ALREADY DIED, WHO THE F*CK CARES IF YOU DIE AGAIN!" Ricky yelled, channeling his own life experiences into the confrontation.


    From Asterion''s perspective, it was a shock; Alexander and Chores might not grasp the weight of it, but that didn''t diminish the connection Ricky''s words forged.


    Ricky''s message struck a chord¡ªthough they were fundamentally different, they shared similar experiences and emotions.


    One had the courage to finally push forward, while the other remained ensnared in an eternal cycle of despair.


    "Listen, Asterion, if you want to keep guarding this empty vault, then go for it." Ricky walked past Asterion, shutting the inventory filled with the ebony blade and various valuables as he made his way toward the door.


    "But let''s make a deal." Ricky paused and looked up, locking eyes with Asterion.


    "I''m going to come back before I leave Italy and ask you again because I feel like I owe myself that much." Ricky waved toward Chores, who hurriedly rushed over, while Alexander scampered back onto his shoulder.


    "If you want to stay, then whatever. But if you come with me, I''ll show you just how f*cking fun life really is and what you''ve been missing out on by cooping yourself up in this cramped tomb." Ricky turned away, leaving Asterion with a whirlwind of thoughts.


    As Ricky stepped out of the vault, Asterion lingered behind, plopping down on a nearby boulder instead of following as he sank into contemplation, the weight of Ricky''s words hanging heavily in the air.


    To put it plainly, Asterion hadn''t given up on life; he was just paralyzed by the fear of losing everything he had once again, just as he had before.


    The memories of his past were a heavy burden, making it difficult for him to imagine moving on and starting anew.


    Each attempt felt like a risk, a gamble that could lead to more heartache.


    His loneliness festered, especially after Daedalus''s death, which had left him truly alone.


    The vibrant connection he once had was now a ghost, and the void it left behind only deepened his isolation.


    Asterion had buried himself within the tomb, convincing himself that he was simply guarding Daedalus''s last masterpiece.


    It was a noble excuse, but deep down, he knew it was a facade, a way to run away from his problems.


    He didn''t want to feel remorse or guilt anymore; he wanted to escape the memories that haunted him like shadows.


    But now, as he sat on that boulder, Ricky''s words echoed in his mind, cutting through the silence that had engulfed him for centuries.


    For the first time in ages, a single thought pierced through his defenses.


    ''Have I been so afraid of feeling despair that I have forgotten what it means to truly live?''


    Meanwhile Outside The Tomb,


    "Here."


    Plopped down in front of the quietly sitting Verdelet, Ricky tossed the diaries he had promised him.


    The vampire''s eyes lit up with intrigue, his expression shifting from calm to delight as he eagerly reached for the books.


    As he began skimming through the pages, a smile stretched wider across his face, illuminating his features with an infectious enthusiasm.


    Each word seemed to resonate with him, and the more he read, the more his excitement grew before he gazed back up at him.


    "You''re the first human to truly pique my interest since I met Daedalus himself," Verdelet chuckled, his laughter echoing with an ancient warmth.


    "Let me guess,the tomb was designed to keep you out." Ricky said, piecing together the puzzle with a light sigh.


    "Yes, long ago I went by the name king Cocalus, and the one who was supposed to get a vault that would serve as a place to conduct my research but-"


    "Let me guess again: he didn''t trust you because you''re an old vampire hell-bent on reclaiming the vampire throne and will do whatever it takes to get it?" Ricky said, his tone casual as if the revelation came as no surprise as Verdelet shrugged in response.


    "Well, we make life as we will it, and I want to rule over all vampires," Verdelet stated, his ambition clear while Ricky sighed and shook his head in response.


    "Alright, well, I''m off to see what your nemesis, Dracula, is up to." Ricky said, striding past Verdelet, who remained true to his word.


    "I wasn''t joking when I said I''d lend you an army. Remember that." Verdelet replied, his tone serious as Ricky turned back, laughter bubbling up as he spread his arms wide.


    "Well, like I said before, if I ever go to war with Dracula, you''ll be the first I call," Ricky said, waving as he walked away, Chores trotting eagerly by his side.


    "Are you sure that it is wise to-"


    "Who cares? If he takes over the world, at least he''ll have a favorable impression of me and might let me do whatever I want. It works out either way." Ricky shrugged, brushing off any concerns as Verdelet, overhearing him, erupted into hysterical laughter in the distance.


    "That isn''t a good thing-"


    "Oh whatever, let''s get wasted on the train ride back."


    3 hours later,


    "God, I swear, if we get attacked by vampires, I''m going to lose my sh*t." Ricky grumbled, his frustration evident as he leaned against the bar of the luxurious train car.


    "Reginald, get me another." Ricky set his empty glass down, and the man, who wasn''t named Reginald, let out an exasperated sigh but dutifully poured him another drink.


    "Hey, what''s your deal?" Ricky nudged Alexander, who had just finished his small shot of vodka.


    "I feel as if a part of my life is a lie." Alexander admitted, grappling with the internal crisis sparked by the revelation about Theseus.


    "Oh it can''t be that bad-"


    "Theseus was one of my heroes. I idolized him and aspired to be like him and all the other heroes of Greek mythos, but he was no noble warrior." Alexander''s whiskers twitched slowly, his eyes scrunching as his small paws shook violently.


    *Sniff*


    "But a dishonorable fraud!" Alexander erupted, his eyes blazing as he turned to Ricky with renewed vigor.


    "Young Ricky, you must bear my revenge for this revelation." Alexander spoke seriously, but Ricky couldn''t help but crack up.


    "What?" Ricky asked, assuming Alexander was joking until he saw the serious expression on his face.


    "How many children grew up on the lies of Theseus? This cannot stand!" Alexander exclaimed, slamming his paw onto the bar counter.


    "What do you want me to do, make him confess-"


    "YES, HE IS NO HERO, AND THIS MUST BE KNOWN!" Alexander yelled, his fury palpable at the mere thought of people still holding Theseus in high regard.


    "Alexander listen-"


    "Young Ricky, if you do this, I won''t see you as just a student but as a comrade, and I will charge into the depths of hell with you." Alexander''s tone was serious, and Ricky felt a surge of reluctance. He wanted to refuse, but the way he was stuck with this gerbil made it feel like he had no choice.


    "Alright, but I''m not doing it immediately but when the time is right-"


    "THAT IS ENOUGH!"


    *DING*


    Alexander The Gerbil (Favorability: 100)


    [Skill sharing equipped]


    Ricky was surprised to see his favorability reach 100 as he never thought it possible, especially after experiencing Alexander''s temperament firsthand.


    "I, ALEXANDER THE GREAT, SOVEREIGN OF MACEDONIA, COMMANDER OF THE PARIPANIANS, AND VANQUISHER OF EUROPE, HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGE YOUNG RICKY AS MY COMRADE!" Alexander bellowed, raising his tiny shot glass in a grand gesture.


    "FROM HENCEFORTH, YOUR NAME OF YOUNG RICKY WILL CONTINUE INTO RICKY!" Alexander declared triumphantly to the heavens, his tiny voice filled with gravitas, while Ricky burst into laughter.


    "Here, here!" Ricky raised his glass, clinking it against Alexander''s makeshift shot glass.


    They both downed their drinks, Ricky savoring the burn while Alexander gnawed on his wooden creation, taking a hearty sip.


    "Ah~" They let out relieved sighs simultaneously, the alcohol warming them from within as Ricky glanced to the side, momentarily distracted.


    "Oh, will you stop brooding and come over here to celebrate the haul!" Ricky yelled at Chores, who was sulking in the corner with a massive bottle of rum, unlike him.


    "Are you mad about me putting all the loot in my space cause if you''re mad about not getting your fair share then-"


    "It ain''t that Slick it''s just-"


    *SIGH*


    "Never mind," Chores muttered, stewing in his own self-pity as he downed half the bottle before sticking out his tongue at the burning taste.


    "Alright, if you say so-" Ricky began, turning around with his glass out as the bartender started to pour him more, only to be interrupted.


    "It''s just that I feel useless." Chores admitted, letting out a heavy sigh, the weight of his anxiousness dragging him down.


    "But your not useless, whenever I need a voice of reason-"


    *CRASH*


    "I don''t want to be just an angel on your shoulder, Slick!" Chores shouted, hurling the bottle against the wall of the cart.


    The sudden crash startled Ricky, who glanced over, half-expecting a mirroring reaction from Alexander, only to find him drunkenly munching on an olive.


    "Listen man, it''s not like that-"


    "How is it not like that?!" Chores shot back, thumping his fist against his chest with frustration.


    "Because it''s just not?" Ricky replied, his tone lacking conviction since deep down, he knew Chores had a point.


    Since leaving New York, Chores had mostly been along for the ride and yet Ricky didn''t mind.


    It was refreshing to have someone who didn''t just go along with everything he said, and that''s why he kept him close.


    "You brought me on to serve as your muscle, your strongarm, right?" Chores pointedly asked, already knowing the answer.


    "Well, yeah-"


    "But I''m not even serving my original purpose! I''m not worth what you hired me for!" Chores yelled, collapsing into a chair and burying his hands in his head.


    *Sigh*


    "I just feel that after I found out my momma died and left the circus, I lost my purpose," Chores confessed, his voice heavy with emotion as he revealed the struggles he had been carrying.


    "I look in the mirror and don''t see the same boy my momma was proud of growing up." Chores leaned back in the chair, the weight of his words hanging in the air, while Ricky felt his buzz fading as the reality of Chores''s pain set in.


    "Do you even know what that''s like?" Chores asked, consumed in his own self pity to really look towards Ricky who swirled around his drink.


    "Listen, I know I always seem aloof and uncaring, but I''ll drop this facade right now, just for you." Ricky downed his drink, setting the glass on the counter and tapping it as if silently asking for a refill.


    He met Chores''s gaze, determined to break through the wall of self-doubt his friend had built around himself.


    "I know it looks like I don''t care about anything, that I don''t care about what others think, and most of the time that''s true," Ricky admitted, his tone growing more serious.


    "But sometimes, I do let it get to me." Ricky sighed, turning his gaze toward Chores, who seemed a bit taken aback.


    "No one ever sees it, and I don''t want them to, but sometimes, on a random day." Ricky paused, his voice softening.


    "I just feel worthless."


    "I just can''t help but ask myself one question: why me?" Ricky pointed to himself, a hint of disbelief creeping into his voice as he gazed at the ground.


    "Why the f*ck did I get all this power, along with all the luck that comes with it? What the hell did I ever do to deserve this chance?" Ricky let out a small laugh that resonated with slight disbelief.


    "But after a certain point, I just stopped questioning it. I truly accepted this power that came with me, even when it was weird how it just appeared," Ricky spoke, recalling the moment he fully committed himself to pursuing the trail of power back in New York.


    "But how do you change? How did you decide that you wanted to get yourself together?" Chores asked, observing the transformation in Ricky firsthand, noting how he genuinely seemed to want to be better.


    "Listen, Chores, you want to know what I saw in that f*cking cave?" Ricky gestured towards him, seeing the giant head slightly nod forward.


    "Just failures." Ricky shook his head, wiping his mouth while another chuckle escaped his lips.


    "I was forced into the light of everything I ever regretted, and you know what I wanted to be in that moment?" Ricky let out another sigh, closing his eyes before opening them.


    "Anyone else, literally anybody else, I just wanted to be anyone else but me. But I finally realized that all I''ll ever be is me. So I can either go through life hating myself and drinking away every last shred of who I am, or I can do something different." Ricky gestured to himself, feeling a sense of catharsis in his confession.


    It acknowledged all his past behaviors and marked, even if just a little, a step toward personal growth.


    "Wh-What would you do? What did you do?" Chores asked, his voice tinged with desperation.


    "I started giving myself a chance," Ricky shrugged, as if it were the simplest thing in the world.


    "I finally stopped making excuses, stopped blaming everyone around me, and just accepted that everything that happened was my fault." Ricky nodded, acknowledging the weight of his words.


    Ricky understood that he couldn''t just magically become better overnight and even now, he looked back while wanting to handle things differently with Asterion, but he recognized that he wasn''t perfect.


    "I-I''m scared, Slick, that I''ll only ever be your friend and subordinate, but I want to be my own person." Chores finally confessed, the words tumbling out after being harbored for so long.


    "It feels like all I am is whatever you need me to be and I just don''t know what I want-"


    "Chores, buddy, just live how you want to live," Ricky said, a smile breaking across his face as he laughed and pointed at him.


    "Man, even I get scared that I''ll go back to New York one day and find that nothing has changed, that I can''t change." Ricky shook his head, the weight of his thoughts evident.


    "It tears me up inside, but I can''t let it get to me. You just can''t let it get to you either." Ricky gestured towards him, before looking at him seriously.


    "Honestly, I think your biggest problem is that everything just has to make sense, but life doesn''t make any f*cking sense," Ricky admitted, showing that he wasn''t oblivious to Chores as he reached behind him.


    *GULP*


    "I''m learning that the hard way," Ricky said, downing another shot and leaning back against the bar, his gaze fixed on the ceiling.


    "So listen, Chores, you''re my buddy, and I genuinely enjoy having you around. But if leaving is what will help you feel better, then don''t be afraid to walk away." Ricky turned to look at Chores, who was staring down at the floor.


    "N-No, I want to stay," Chores admitted, his voice trembling as he felt himself drifting as he glanced at Ricky, the only solid anchor in his chaotic thoughts.


    "Then what do you need, Chores? Name it, and I''ll help you get it." Ricky urged, eager to move past the heavy silence. Chores remained quiet, lost in thought.


    In that moment, he reflected on all the things he could achieve in this world with his strength, but one thing stood out, towering over everything else.


    "Do you remember what I told you when you asked me what I wanted?" Chores asked, frowning as he searched Ricky''s face for understanding and he raised an eyebrow, intrigued.


    "Didn''t you say something like, ''I don''t have desires'' or something along those lines?" Ricky asked, scratching his head, his memories a little hazy from the alcohol.


    "Well, I want something now," Chores declared, a newfound determination in his voice as Ricky spread his arms wide, encouraging him to continue.


    "Hit me with it! What do you want?" Ricky asked, confident that whatever Chores desired would be easy to provide.


    "I want Daedalus books," Chores declared boldly, and Ricky let out a sigh of relief.


    "Oh thank god, I thought you were gonna ask for something like, ''I want to be more useful,'' because I honestly wouldn''t have known what to do." Ricky said, shaking his head with a chuckle.


    He took out his inventory key, opening it to reveal the ebony blade trembling beneath the piles of jewels.


    With a flick of his wrist, he tossed the books out of the storage space, closing it behind him as he spread his arms wide at the collection of Daedalus books now scattered across the bar counter.


    "Here, they''re all yours," Ricky said, gesturing to the scattered books as if they were mere trinkets. He handed them over effortlessly, a carefree grin on his face, before reaching for his freshly poured glass.


    "A-Are you sure you want to trust me with these, the books alone are worth-"


    "Eh, I trust you," Ricky shrugged, a hint of sincerity in his voice as he''d started to trust Chores, and for now, he decided to believe in that bond until it was betrayed.


    "I promise you, Slick, that I''ll better myself in the only way I know how," Chores said, his eyes lighting up with determination as he grabbed the books.


    He hurriedly raced to his bedroom, the weight of his insecurities momentarily lifted by the promise of knowledge and self-improvement.


    "By reading?" Ricky wondered aloud before he remembered all those times Chores had his nose buried in a book instead of following orders, a behavior he had always thought was just defiance.


    But now, the truth dawned on him: Chores wasn''t merely reading; he was learning.


    Each page turned was another piece of knowledge assimilated, another layer added to his understanding of the world.


    In reality, Chores had been quietly building himself up as he was self-taught in reading and writing, often scribbling notes and ideas in the margins of books, and now he had even started to learn multiple languages.


    Chores settled into a corner of the train car, books scattered around him like a fortress of knowledge.


    He opened one of the Greek texts, the ancient letters swirling with meanings waiting to be uncovered.


    This was his mission now: to bolster his mind and sharpen his intellect as the words blurred together, he found a rhythm, focusing intently on the translations, the sounds of Ricky and Alexander fading into the background.


    Meanwhile, Ricky was a whirlwind of energy, the alcohol flowing freely as he laughed and boasted, his charisma spilling over the edges of their cramped space.


    Alexander, never one to shy away from a drink, matched him shot for shot, both of them indulging in the camaraderie that came with shared libations.


    They toasted to victories past, and as the train rattled along the tracks, their laughter echoed, competing with the clatter of wheels on metal.


    As the hours ticked by, Ricky''s mind began to swim in a sea of spirits and barely noticed the sun setting outside, the vibrant colors of dusk bleeding into the horizon, as he continued to drink without a care.


    Each clink of his glass against Alexander''s felt like a victory, a declaration of their bond.


    "S-Sir, I appreciate your service to the church but you can''t-"


    "I''m the Black Knight, baby! I can do whatever I want!" Ricky slurred, his voice booming as he addressed the train attendant who was just trying to do her job.


    *HICCUP*


    "And the Black Knight wants to chug this entire gallon of milk while everyone cheers me on!" Ricky declared, hoisting the jug above his head as the other passengers exchanged concerned glances.


    "CHUG!" Alexander shouted from his perch on Ricky''s shoulder, and with that command, Ricky threw his head back and started downing the milk with reckless abandon.


    *GULP*


    *GULP*


    *GU-


    *CRASH*


    Ricky crashed to the floor, face-first, as the gallon of milk exploded upon impact, splattering the contents everywhere as the holy black knight lay sprawled in the middle of the train aisle, utterly unconscious.


    "CHUG!" Alexander continued to shout, completely oblivious to the fact that Ricky was no longer standing, his enthusiasm undeterred by the chaos around him.


    *SIGH*


    The passenger door swung open, and Chores stepped in with a deadpan expression, taking in the sight of the passed-out Ricky sprawled across the aisle.


    Without a word, he walked over, hoisted Ricky effortlessly over his shoulder, and reached for Alexander with his other hand.


    "Ow~" Ricky grunted, rubbing his face while Chores embarrassedly walked with him off the train while the passengers stared at them while gossiping amongst themselves.


    "You couldn''t stay in the train car but had to make a fool of yourself!?" Chores whispered in an almost shouting tone, frustration etched across his face as Ricky shrugged him off, scratching his chin nonchalantly.


    "Where''s the fun in drinking alone?" Ricky replied with a grin, causing Chores to facepalm in exasperation.


    As they arrived at the house where they were camped out, Chores pushed the door open to find Abraham sunbathing in the backyard, basking in the sunlight alongside Barko and Henry.


    The scene felt serene, a stark contrast to the chaos of the train, and Chores couldn''t help but roll his eyes at the carefree atmosphere.


    *Sigh*


    "I''m glad someone got to have a peaceful vacation." Ricky scoffed, shooting a stink eye at Percival, who remained silent, lounging on a nearby chair.


    "I can explain why I didn''t heed the call-"


    "Save it, discount King Arthur; I don''t want to hear it." Ricky shot back, his voice dripping with disdain as he marched up to the second floor of the bedroom.


    "If I would''ve interfered then you would''ve never gained the Ebony Blade approval-"


    "Well, I''m glad I made you proud, old man," Ricky replied sarcastically, bouncing onto his bed as Alexander, still nursing his buzz, stumbled over to his own cot.


    "It is not as if I desired for you-"


    "To what, be mind r*ped by the blade that has a huge boner for our bloodline?" Ricky asked, leaving Percival feeling incredibly uncomfortable.


    "I wouldn''t phrase it that way, but yes," Percival conceded. Ricky rolled his eyes and slammed a pillow over his head.


    "To harness the blade''s full power-where is it?" Percival noted, glancing around as Ricky sighed from beneath the pillow.


    "In timeout, like the child it is," Ricky said, rolling over as the motion only made Percival more anxious.


    "My descendant-"


    "You know what, Percival? How about instead of constantly disagreeing with everything I do and nagging me over every little thing, you just let it go this time and trust my judgment?" Ricky suggested as Percival frowned, noticing Ricky''s sour mood, but eventually acquiesced.


    "Now, let me enjoy my peaceful vacation under the Sicilian sun."


    3 weeks later,


    *BAM*


    "Kid, Eliphas has agreed to smuggle us across the border."


    Author''s Note: Some dipsh*t gave me the flu and I feel like I''m dying so this chap is extra long incase I don''t post tommorrow. Also I''m gonna put off replying to comments until it doens''t feel like my body is somehow in the arctic tundra.

 Chapter 88 - 87: Smuggling Into Nazi Germany

    Chapter 88: Chapter 87: Smuggling Into Nazi Germany


    Meanwhile In the Heart Of Rome,


    A woman wandered through the unfamiliar streets, clutching a bag of luggage, her wide eyes scanning the scenery with uncertainty.


    She seemed out of place, her movements hesitant, as though searching for something she couldn''t quite find as her nerves were palpable, glancing around before fixing her gaze ahead.


    With a deep breath, she started up the steps to the Vatican, her pace slow and deliberate. It wasn''t until she reached the grand entrance that she revealed herself to be Carla.


    "E-Excuse me?" Carla called out, waving her hand toward one of the guards as the guard glanced at her briefly before resuming his forward-facing stance.


    "Guests of the Holy City enter through the entrance. Once that is finished, a fee will be paid, and you may give your words to God." The guard promptly stated, his tone formal, as though he had recited the lines countless times before.


    "I-I have this letter¡ªoh no!" Carla stammered, fumbling to retrieve an envelope from her bag.


    In her haste, her luggage slipped from her grasp, the buckle snapping open as her belongings scattered across the ground.


    *Sigh*


    The guards sighed in unison, reluctantly bending down to help gather Carla''s scattered belongings.


    As they moved to escort her toward the entrance, one of them paused, his eyes narrowing as he spotted a distinct symbol among her items.


    Without a word, he straightened up, exchanging a quick glance with his fellow guard.


    "Is this-"


    "The Holy Black Knight sent me here, he said that after Father Sebastion reads this, the church will take care of me?" Carla nervously spoke, handing the letter over to the guards.


    They glanced at the symbol and immediately exchanged baffled looks, realizing this was far above their pay grade.


    "Excuse me for a moment, I must notify the proper channels." The guard''s demeanor shifted, his posture stiffening as he quickly turned and hurried into the church.


    Meanwhile, the other guard gently ushered Carla to the side, motioning for her to sit down and wait.


    "Father, the Black Knight has sent word for you!" The guard hurried over to Father Sebastion, who was deep in thought, attending to church matters.


    Hearing the guard''s urgent tone, Sebastion looked up, his brow furrowing with concern.


    "Thank you, my child. Please give it here," Father Sebastion said, a hint of surprise in his voice.


    He gestured for the guard to approach, who bowed in gratitude before promptly handing over the letter.


    Dear Carla,


    Hey, I had a great time, but when you wake up, I''ll probably be gone. It''s not your fault¡ªI''m just really busy right now with this whole Black Knight thing and people constantly trying to kill me. That''s why I didn''t bring you with me after hearing about your situation.


    The reason I''m writing is that if you end up getting pregnant, take this letter to the Vatican, and they''ll take care of you and our kid. I know it''s stressful to drop everything and trust a stranger, but honestly, I''m trying to be better with this sort of thing. I don''t have the time to give you a good life right now, so until I can sort things out, the Vatican will provide everything I can''t.


    P.S. Father Sebastion, this part is for Carla, so stop being a perv and turn it over.


    Ricky,


    "O-Oh dear, I didn''t mean to read her private message," Father Sebastion gasped, realizing this side of the letter wasn''t intended for him, flustered, he quickly turned it over, hoping to erase the intrusion.


    Dear Father Sebastion,


    Sorry for just springing this on you, but there''s a good chance I knocked her up. I know it isn''t exactly church-like to be in this situation, but I didn''t want to leave her hanging. If you could do me a favor and look after her until I can make better arrangements for when I return to New York, I''d really appreciate it.


    Also, if I end up getting myself killed, then the church can use the kid as insurance to handle this crappy blade.


    Ricky,


    Although Ricky had a tendency to distance himself from the girls he knocked up, he was slowly starting to confront his own mistakes.


    Far from being a saint or a genuinely good person, he began to see things differently once he left New York and the comfort of Lucky, who had always done almost everything for him.


    Ricky started to realize he wanted to be more like Lucky, in terms of being a father and he could almost hear Lucky smacking him on the back of the head for thinking that way, urging him to aim higher and strive for something better.


    But deep down, Ricky was coming to terms with the fact that he didn''t want to abandon his kids and leave them out to dry.


    His encounter with Danielle had shaken him to his core and whenever he thought about his bastards out there all alone, he couldn''t shake the feeling that he was staining her memory and all the promises he made by neglecting his family.


    The weight of his choices pressed heavily on him, forcing him to reconsider the kind of man he wanted to be.


    It was a small step, but one that Ricky knew he needed to take gradually as he wanted to do right by these women, starting with Carla.


    Meanwhile, Father Sebastion hurriedly rushed out of the room and made his way toward the back of the Vatican, where Carla was currently being guarded.


    "Child, are you perhaps Carla?" Father Sebastion inquired with a gentle smile, his gaze softening as he looked at her before drifting down to her stomach.


    "A-Ah, yes, Father, the Holy Black Knight sent me," Carla replied, bowing her head, biting her lip as she gazed at Father Sebastion as he nodded reassuringly.


    "Don''t worry, child. You are safe here; I believe you." Father Sebastion''s gentle smile and calming demeanor immediately put Carla at ease.


    "Come, come, I shall set you up with a place to stay while I prepare better arrangements," Father Sebastion said, guiding Carla as she smiled warmly, feeling a sense of relief wash over her as she followed him.


    In a sad way, Carla found herself grateful and given her low status and beauty, she had always felt destined to be a mistress of a mafia member.


    But unless she secured her place as the mistress of a high-ranking figure, her future was uncertain; if that member were to die, she would be left with nothing, even further from security than before.


    Now, however, Carla had the assurance that the Vatican would take care of her and for the first time in her life, she felt safe.


    ''Thank you Holy Black knight, truly.''


    *SLURP*


    Back in Abriella, Ricky was slurping on a poorly made smoothie he had whipped up using the homeowner''s strawberries.


    There was something about making food for yourself that made it taste just a bit better than it really was, as if the effort put into it somehow masked the flaws.


    "Kid, Eliphas has agreed to smuggle us across the border," Abraham said as he hurried over to Ricky, who was leaning back in his chair.


    "Later," Ricky waved him off, enjoying the warmth of the sun as it transformed his skin from a crippling white to a light olive brown.


    Aside from the constant training, Ricky had been soaking up the sun, truly relishing his vacation.


    It was a refreshing escape from the relentless tide of conflicts that always seemed to pile up around him and for once, he could let his guard down and enjoy a moment of peace.


    "I see." Abraham nodded, then walked back into the kitchen. A moment later, he returned with a tub of water and tossed it at Ricky.


    *Sigh*


    The water splashed against Ricky''s mental barrier, causing him to let out a sigh.


    He took off his sunglasses and stared plainly at Abraham, who had momentarily forgotten about the protective barrier Ricky could project at will.


    *COUGH*


    Abraham coughed as Ricky sent a bowling ball-sized mental projection into his stomach, causing him to double over and fall to his knees.


    "Honestly, did you really think that would work?" Ricky asked genuinely, slurping the last of his smoothie before standing up to refill his glass, with Percival hovering beside him.


    "Must you antagonize a fight you''ll never win?" Percival shook his head at Abraham, floating along to follow Ricky, while Chores closed the book he had been reading and shook his head in disapproval.


    Refilling his subpar strawberry smoothie, Ricky walked back to the backyard to find Abraham already celebrating the new day with a sip from his flask.


    "I need a fa-"


    "No," Ricky promptly denied, stepping aside to grab an apple to munch on before taking another sip of his smoothie.


    "You don''t even know what I want!" Abraham exclaimed, standing up as if Ricky were being unreasonable as Ricky simply shook his head.


    "I''m the only one who gets one-sided favors; I don''t make the rules," he shrugged, his own unreasonable response leaving Abraham with a deadpan stare.


    "How much?"


    "How much do you think a favor from you is worth?"


    Reaching another stalemate, Abraham clicked his tongue and began rummaging through his coat of trinkets.


    "This is-"


    "Random stick, next." Ricky said, waving his hand dismissively. He continued this way until Abraham was at his wits'' end.


    "This is a ruby ring I-"


    Swiping the big ruby from Abraham''s hand and flicking it over to Chores for inspection who pulled out a loupe to inspect the quality of the gem.


    "It''s legit." Chores looked up at Ricky, Abraham scoffing as if that fact was obvious before Ricky took another bite of his apple.


    "Alright, what do you need?" Ricky said, swiping the big ruby from Abraham''s hand and flicking it over to Chores for inspection.


    "ISN''T IT OBVIOUS, RICKY? WE ARE TO GO INTO GLORIOUS COMBAT!" Alexander declared boldly, perching himself on Ricky''s head.


    "Elphias only got two passports, so I need you to let me sneak in with that weird room that you can materialize out of thin air," Abraham requested and Ricky immediately frowned, a similar look of disapproval mirrored on Chores and Barko''s faces.


    "Why is Ephilas coming?" Ricky asked, realizing that this meant they would be taking Ephilas along. Abraham grinned madly.


    "I''m planning to hold the blood over his head until we get to the facility." Abraham said, greedily rubbing his hands together as Ricky just shook his head in disbelief.


    "Pretty solid reason, honestly." Ricky sighed, pulling out the key and noticing the ebony blade thrashing wildly beneath the bags of jewels.


    "Young Ricky, that ebony blade will definitely be needed." Percival urged, his expression reflecting concern at the way Ricky was handling the menacing weapon.


    *Sigh*


    "Yeah, I guess you''re right." Ricky stepped inside, grabbed the hateful blade, and reemerged, gesturing toward the others.


    "Chores, Barko, make sure this sweaty old man doesn''t steal my stuff." Ricky ordered, while Chores squinted at Abraham, who merely scoffed in response.


    "So Abraham about understanding the flow-"


    "Oh God, I forgot about you." Abraham sighed heavily, glancing down at the yapping dog that had followed him into the room.


    Barko had been relentless in his questioning, never concealing his fascination with magic from the perspective of a scientist.


    Even when Abraham yammered that he would never amount to anything in the magic world, Barko remained determined to learn everything he could about this intriguing concept.


    "Eliphas will be at the bar from earlier; he''s probably been waiting there for a while now," Abraham informed Ricky, while Chores paused at the entrance, glancing back.


    "Slick, be careful. Eliphas isn''t the type of guy you should trust fully." Chores gave his last warning, and Ricky nodded, agreeing with him.


    Ricky had begun to sharpen his instincts, learning not to trust any vampire or Van Helsing, all thanks to his dealings with Abraham.


    In fact, he felt an overwhelming sense of unease, as if something was bound to go wrong, and he couldn''t shake the feeling that settled in his stomach.


    "Alexander, keep a lookout for me, and Percival, scout the area." Ricky directed, causing his ancestor to frown but ultimately nod in acknowledgment of his initiative.


    The ebony blade at his waist continued to shake violently, its agitation becoming increasingly annoying to Ricky.


    "Hey, do you want to go back into timeout in that dark room?" Ricky threatened the powerful blade, and instantly, it stopped moving altogether.


    "That''s what I thought."


    A couple of minutes later, Ricky arrived at the bar to find Eliphas nursing a drink, his expression brooding and distant.


    "What''s got you in the lovestruck blues?" Ricky asked, recognizing that familiar expression as he casually swiped Eliphas''s drink.


    "It''s nothing. Are you ready?" Eliphas asked, his brows furrowing as he watched Ricky down the entire drink as Ricky simply nodded, a smirk playing on his lips.


    "Yeah, but first, are you tricking Abraham?" Ricky''s eyes suddenly pierced into Eliphas, whose red eyes condensed.


    "The only person who is getting tricked at the moment is me, since that Van Helsing is lording that blood over me." Eliphas spoke in such a way that his words were masked in the complete truth as Ricky set down his own drink.


    "Fine, let''s go."


    10 minutes later,


    "You''re kidding." Ricky stared at the German uniform, his gaze lingering on the mustache.


    "It is part of the cover-"


    "But does it matter enough to wear this mustache?" Ricky asked, baffled by how it contributed to his disguise as Eliphas sighed, facepalming in response.


    "Can you just-"


    *SIGH*


    "Please put on the mustache." Eliphas couldn''t take arguing with Ricky; it felt like he was dealing with Abraham all over again.


    "Whatever, but why do we have to drive instead of flying there?" Ricky asked, laughing at Eliphas''s lame preparations.


    "Because it is apart of our cover story-"


    "Ah, the one where two Germans go to sunny Sicily, and one gets a tan while the other lurks in the sewers to get even paler." Ricky continued to laugh at Eliphas, who couldn''t believe how immature he really was.


    "Are you done?" Eliphas asked, Ricky actually pondering before shaking his head.


    "Hold on, I''m thinking." Ricky held up his hand, genuinely pondering the situation before shaking his head.


    "I got nothing, for now." Ricky then slid into the driver''s seat while Eliphas climbed in beside him, wearing a frown.


    "I am the one with the drivers linecase-"


    "Oh no, whatever shall I do without a license?" Ricky exclaimed, flooring the car with a mock expression of terror, before bursting into laughter at Eliphas.


    "Relax, you sewer dweller; you''re too uptight." Ricky said, turning onto the road as they began the drive to Germany.


    The first hour passed in relative silence, but as time wore on, Eliphas''s frown only deepened.


    "Must you drink while driving?" Eliphas asked, seeing Ricky pound a bottle of wine throughout the drive.


    "How else am I supposed to wet my whistle?" Ricky laughed, nudging Eliphas in an attempt to lighten the mood, but Eliphas simply returned his enthusiasm with a deadpan stare.


    "Anyways, it helps pass the time," Ricky continued, shrugging off the lack of response.


    "And since you''re a lousy road buddy, I have to make do with what I''ve got." Ricky tossed the empty wine bottle out of the car after downing the last drop, tapping the steering wheel rhythmically.


    "So, who''s Selene?" Ricky suddenly asked, noticing Eliphas''s hair stand on end as the vampire''s demeanor shifted instantly as he turned his face toward the window, avoiding Ricky''s gaze.


    "No one."


    "Bullsh*t, is she hot-"


    "DO NOT SPEAK OF HER BEAUTY IN SUCH A SIMPLISTIC WAY!" Eliphas''s face twisted in frustration, but Ricky didn''t even flinch; he just laughed, convinced he was onto something.


    "Come on, we''re stuck in this godforsaken car for an entire day, so just tell me about her." Ricky saw no harm in it, and surprisingly, neither did Eliphas.


    "She is the essence of what beauty desires itself to be," Eliphas replied, his voice softening as he described Selene.


    He spoke as if she were a masterpiece, and he was the artist recounting every brushstroke and detail of his creation.


    "How big are her tits?" Ricky interjected, but Eliphas''s expression lingered on the beauty of his memories, completely oblivious to Ricky''s interruption.


    Lost in his reverie, he continued to paint a vivid picture of Selene, undeterred by the crassness of the question.


    "Selene is someone I wanted to see the world end with, but I betrayed her," Eliphas said, his expression shifting as he looked at himself, the ugly visage fading back into his regular appearance.


    "For centuries, I''ve searched for a way to apologize, yet I''ve come up short in my pursuits." Eliphas turned his gaze back to Ricky, a solemn nod accompanying his words.


    "I kind of know how you feel. Back then, I used to go around whoremongering without any regard for the consequences of my actions." Ricky said, slumping in his chair as he focused on the road ahead.


    "But now, I don''t want to leave them out to dry. I''ve had this revelation, and now I''m stuck being the black knight." Ricky lamented, recalling all the women out there dealing with his kids, probably struggling and having no support whatsoever.


    "I left my girls to do this whole Black Knight thing, but I keep getting caught up in all these conflicts that I don''t know when I''ll see them again," Ricky said, tapping the steering wheel with a sigh. He thought about Maria, Alina, and all the other women who had mingled with him, their faces flashing in his mind.


    "You''re a father?" Eliphas misinterpreted the question, asking with slight surprise.


    "Nah, I meant my girlfriend and my mistress, but I guess you''re right since they''re both pregnant with my bastards along with the others," Ricky shook his head, his expression shifting as the reality of his situation sunk in.


    He hadn''t considered it that way before, but it was true, he was about to become a father soon to a clutter of kids and it sort of sunk in for him.


    "You''re disgusting, a woman''s love isn''t something to be toyed with-"


    "But you are?" Ricky laughed, looking at Eliphas as if he was joking.


    "I get that I''m over here making my own little family tree and that in itself is trashy, but at least I''m getting some rather than brooding over a chick who probably doesn''t even love you." Ricky turned his own issue into a joke, laughing at himself and at the same time Eliphas.


    "Do you know what it''s like to love-"


    "Yeah, but sooner or later, you realize that what you have right now isn''t love; it''s torture." Ricky scoffed at Eliphas, seeing through the facade and recognizing him for what he truly was, a hopeless sad sack.


    "She probably forgot about you, so why not move on? Go meet some sweet honeys and snag a hot Italian girl instead." Ricky nudged Eliphas, who turned his gaze back to the window.


    Ignoring Ricky, he closed his eyes and let himself drift into sleep, his thoughts wandering back to his conversation with Dracula.


    "Let me clarify further then, I know where your precious Selene is currently residing."


    Eliphas froze, his heart pounding in his chest as Selen''s warm smile flooded his memory.


    "You''re lying, Selene hasn''t revealed herself to the world in centuries-"


    "She was busy building her utopia, but we all know why she never told you of its glorious standing," Dracula taunted through his familiar, making Eliphas seethe with frustration.


    "Lies, Selene would never inform you of-"


    "Well, the collective I''m a part of has found evidence of its existence, though no further contact has been initiated yet." Dracula tempted further, as Eliphas grew colder at his own realization.


    "You dare plot against my beloved?" Eliphas''s claws slowly formed, but Dracula wasn''t even paying attention, as his power wasn''t worth noticing.


    "It is not that I am plotting, but observing, though let us continue onto the details." Dracula replied with an amused grin, returning to his original proposal.


    "Bring Abraham and the Black Knight to these coordinates so that I may snip this blooming bud." Dracula handed Eliphas a set of coordinates in Germany, which he accepted with a tense grip.


    "Do you truly believe I''d compromise my integrity as an information broker-"


    "Yes, yes, I do," Dracula ridiculed, flapping his wings slightly, his eyes forming into crescent moons while gazing directly into Eliphas eyes.


    "You''ll do anything to see your beloved again, Eliphas, even if it means betraying yourself, let alone Abraham."


    *Slap*


    "Hey, wake up."


    Eliphas sat up, the imprint of his face still visible on his cheek, and saw them at the border between Italy and Germany, where Nazi soldiers patrolled with armbands emblazoned on their uniforms.


    "Give me the passports." Ricky snapped, and Eliphas, almost unconsciously, handed them over.


    Ricky pulled up to the customs gate, spotting two German guards wearing distinct red armbands emblazoned with a bold symbol.


    Suddenly aware that Ricky was the one expected to do the talking, Eliphas felt a wave of nervousness wash over him, a stark contrast to Ricky''s relaxed demeanor.


    "Passports." The German guard gruffed, clearly annoyed that their conversation had been interrupted as Ricky handed them over without hesitation.


    "Lukas Schmidt and Fabian Klein-oh, you are German." The guard suddenly realized, glancing from their distinct German names to the passports that accompanied them.


    "What kind of German?" The other guard asked, squinting his eyes in a scrutinizing manner.


    "Do I look like a f*cking Jew to you?" Ricky shot back, raising an eyebrow with a sneer, while Eliphas''s eyes widened in shock.


    Eliphas was supposed to influence the guards with his vampiric abilities, but things were taking a turn for the worse as tension mounted, he prepared to fight, sharpening his claws in anticipation.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky and the guards erupted into laughter, unable to maintain their straight faces any longer.


    ''W-What is happening?'' Eliphas wondered, struggling to comprehend what was so funny while one of the guards wiped tears of laughter from his eyes.


    "So, my brother, how was your trip?" the guard laughed, handing back the passport he had checked before moving on to the other one.


    "It was no Germany, but I got a tan while my friend here spent all day tucked in a corner of a bar," Ricky joked, eliciting some chuckles before he shook his head.


    "But seriously, can you believe they don''t have a single ounce of German beer there?" Ricky lamented, and the guards sighed in agreement, knowing the troubles all too well.


    "What do they expect me to do, grow a pair of tits to drink some wine?" Ricky nudged the closest guard, and they erupted into laughter at the joke.


    "Oh, but the women, they are something," Ricky said, a sleazy smile spreading across his face and making the guards perk up.


    "Oh, did you dip into the Italian pool?" The other guard nudged, and Ricky couldn''t help but grin wider.


    "Headfirst, I mean, they aren''t exactly German wife material, but they know how to have a good time. And speaking of that, I met this one girl-"


    Ricky launched into an exaggerated story filled with crude details about his encounter with a servant girl, recounting every lascivious moment.


    Eliphas listened with disgust, shaking his head, while the two guards hung on to every word, clearly entertained by the tale.


    "And then I walked away."


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" They erupted into laughter at the outrageous story, wiping tears from their eyes before handing the passport back.


    "Well, welcome back home, brother. Heil Hitler!" the guard said, giving Ricky a friendly pat on the shoulder as Ricky nodded in response, rolling up the window as they drove away.


    As they drove off as if nothing had happened, Eliphas stared at Ricky in astonishment, marveling at how effortlessly he had managed to converse with the guards.


    "Oh, don''t give me that look. All guys are like that, except you over there," Ricky nudged Eliphas, who simply continued to stare back at him in disbelief.


    Pulling over and getting out, Eliphas watched as Ricky summoned Chores, Abraham, and Barko from thin air.


    "Never again," they all agreed, climbing into the cramped car as Eliphas stepped out, only to be stopped in his tracks.


    "Oh no, you''re going to show us to the facilities," Abraham said with a cheeky smile, which only served to infuriate Eliphas.


    "That wasn''t part of the deal-"


    "Oh, come on! You didn''t think I''d give you a vial of the Pope''s blood so easily?" Abraham asked, meeting Eliphas''s gaze and after a moment, Eliphas sighed and got back into the car.


    He remained silent as the conversation continued to flow around him, his mind drifting back to the agreement he had made about giving directions.


    "What do you want?" Eliphas caved, and Dracula smiled viciously, nodding in approval.


    "There''s a lab near the border that Abraham will most likely blackmail you into guiding him to." Dracula replied, effortlessly seeing through his old adversary''s intentions, knowing him all too well.


    "You''ll lead him into these coordinates and once you do, I''ll handle the rest."


    "We''re here." Eliphas said, gesturing toward a sketchy, abandoned warehouse that loomed ahead.


    "It''s underground-"


    "Then show us the way," Ricky said, adjusting his Black Knight attire, putting on his newly acquired wings as Eliphas stared at him for a moment before reluctantly leading the group toward the secret entrance.


    Digging out a buried hatch, Eliphas descended first, with the others following closely behind into an underground tunnel.


    As they walked into a room filled with cryptic symbols, Ricky was the last to arrive and suddenly, his danger sense went into overdrive as everything in the room was swallowed by blinding light.


    His pupils convulsed as he turned around, shooting backward while his wings flapped frantically, only to be consumed by the light.


    When the brightness faded, Ricky found himself no longer in a cramped room but standing in a magnificent gothic castle.


    In the gothic castle, a grand banquet was underway, with a sea of vampires scattered throughout the area.


    Each one wore elaborate masks and held champagne glasses filled with blood.


    They all wore mocking smiles, their gazes fixed on their guest of honor for today''s feast as Abraham, who stood frozen at the center of the room lifelessly gazed in front of him.


    *THUMP*


    Abraham''s heart thumped violently in his chest, the sound echoing in his ears as he tried to ignore the crowd of vampires surrounding him.


    The mocking laughter and whispers seemed to close in around him, a suffocating wave of dread.


    He forced himself to focus, blocking out the swirling sea of masked faces, each one grinning with predatory delight.


    His eyes fell upon the figure seated on the grandiose throne, the only one who truly commanded his attention.


    The vampire''s presence was overwhelming, exuding an air of power that sent chills down Abraham''s spine.


    "Hello Abraham, it is good to see you once again."

 Chapter 89: Chap Pushed To Tuesday

    Chapter 89: Chap Pushed To Tuesday


    My flu has gotten f*cking worse, and I''ve tried to push through like yesterday, but I can''t finish this chapter yet. I usually like to double-check and revise my work thoroughly and I want to make some additions since this chapter will be hella long. I also know I haven''t posted much this week, but unless this flu lingers into next week, I''ll post five chapters as an apology. The plan is to start on Tuesday and then from Thursday through Sunday. Once again, I''m really sorry, especially since I left things on a cliffhanger.

 Chapter 90 - 88: Dracula

    Chapter 90: Chapter 88: Dracula


    "Dracula." Abraham''s fist clenched as he jerked his head to the side, catching Eliphas ducking almost immediately.


    "ELIPHAS, YOU BASTARD! HOW COULD YOU DO THIS?" Abraham roared, his voice trembling with fury, eyes burning red with hate since what Eliphas had done was a taboo in his field.


    Eliphas had destroyed his credibility, and in the supernatural world, an information broker''s lifeblood was neutrality and trust but with both shattered, Eliphas career was all but finished.


    "I apologize, Abraham, but my love comes above everything." Eliphas knew that decades of hard work had been flushed down the drain, but none of that mattered if he could see his dear Selene once more.


    "Give him the coordinates, then escort him out of the castle," Dracula commanded, his tone cold and final as a group of lower-level vampires moved swiftly, guiding Eliphas out.


    Ricky, on the other hand, remained deathly quiet, his mind racing for a way out of the situation, but truthfully, he had no idea what to do.


    Even standing still, his nerves were screaming with no end in sight, his mind racing under the hungry gazes of the vampires staring at him.


    Desperately, Ricky combed through his system inventory for anything that could help, while Chores and Barko silently braced themselves for the worst.


    "Young Ricky, it is imperative you stay calm," Alexander whispered, his eyes flicking around as he took in their dire situation.


    They were outnumbered and surrounded and Percival, too, was in a bind, scanning their surroundings, but the more he looked, the less hope he saw for any real escape.


    "Dracula, I''m the one you want, so let the kid go-" Abraham began, realizing he had once again dragged Ricky into his mess but he was quickly interrupted by Dracula''s laughter.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Dracula''s laughter echoed, silencing everything around him while Abraham shot him a hate-filled glare, unable to believe what he was hearing.


    "Oh, Abraham, foolish, naive Abraham. This banquet is not your grave, but rather an honor for bringing me the Black Knight on a silver platter," Dracula mocked, chuckling as he watched Abraham gnaw on his own lip.


    "Maybe twenty years ago, it would have been different. Perhaps you would have actually caught my interest in killing you. But now, the one I desire to kill is your new friend and what the church calls ''The Black Knight,''" Dracula revealed, unveiling that this confrontation wasn''t against his supposed rival but, in fact, aimed at Ricky.


    Ricky immediately unsheathed his sword, realizing that the only way to escape was through brute force and as he did, he recalled all the items he could use in the fight ahead.


    "You see, Abraham, all this time, while you thought you were hunting me down, snooping around in the experiments of Weapon X that I supposedly wanted kept under wraps." Dracula recounted, rubbing his chin and pacing around the banquet, his eyes gleaming with joy as he took in Abraham''s crumbling expression.


    "Instead, I was simply feeding you little crumbs after I learned that you had roped the Black Knight into your shenanigans, hoping that in your arrogance, you''d lead him all the way to me." Dracula flicked one of the champagne glasses filled with blood, its vibration shaking Abraham''s expression into a state of distress.


    The revelation made Abraham''s heart sink as he grabbed his head, recalling everything he had learned that always seemed to line up before him.


    "From brainwashing and feeding you little runts from my sect to bribing Eliphas into bringing you here, all of it was by my hands," Dracula declared, clasping his hands together before slowly spreading them out toward Ricky, as if presenting a prize.


    Abraham''s breath quickened as he looked back at Ricky, realizing that his arrogance might have just led to the young man''s demise.


    "Dammit, I knew something stupid like this would happen! Fuck!" Ricky lamented, cursing himself for ever going with Abraham in the first place and Chores let out a resigned sigh, sharing in the frustration of their predicament.


    "It''s my fault, Slick. If I hadn''t been so self-absorbed, maybe I could''ve seen it too." Chores said, biting his lip as he recognized that his mind hadn''t been in the right place for some time, placing the blame on himself.


    "No, I lost focus on Abraham''s teachings. I knew everything shouldn''t have added up so easily." Barko sighed, regretting that if he hadn''t been so preoccupied with trying to prove his worth, none of this would have happened.


    "You both came along for the ride. If anyone''s to blame, it''s me for trusting that smelly piece of sh*t of an old man." Ricky sneered, equipping all of his armor as Dracula merely watched him with an amused smile.


    Ricky then looked down at Alexander, scanning their surroundings and evaluating the enemy forces before meeting the gaze of his allies.


    "Do not look at me, Ricky. I merely go along with your whimsical actions." Alexander said, refusing to take any blame, which left Ricky baffled.


    "I mean, yeah that''s true, but aren''t you supposed to-"


    "Ricky, if I have to do everything for you, then how exactly will you learn?" Alexander asked, leaving Ricky dumbfounded while his gerbil continued to survey the scene.


    "NO!" Abraham yelled, his entire body shaking as his usual uncaring demeanor shifted into an almost scared yet determined expression.


    "Dracula, today is the day I finally free my family!" Abraham drew out his vials, causing the vampires to flinch at the sight, sensing the holy power radiating from them.


    "Kill the Black Knight''s friends, leave Abraham to me, and save the main course for later." Dracula commanded, gesturing to his legion of vampires, who eagerly fixed their hungry gazes on Ricky.


    "Alexander, let''s use that skill-sharing thing," Ricky whispered, recognizing the urgency of the situation as Alexander contemplated it for a moment before nodding in agreement.


    "Then, I shall lend you my strength."


    *Ding*


    *Skill Share enabled*


    *Bond has allowed ten minutes of usage*


    Ricky''s body flashed, causing the vampires to shield their eyes and when the light faded, his blackened armor had transformed into a golden array.


    Suddenly, Ricky''s perception shifted; he could see how the enemy forces were arranged and identify their weaknesses with just a glance.


    The unbridled confidence swelling within him was unparalleled, as he felt the might of Alexander''s power and experience coursing through him.


    "What fun this will be." Dracula laughed, seemingly unfazed by Ricky and Abraham as he sauntered over to the main area, allowing Abraham to face him head-on.


    "Kill him!" Baron Blood shouted, the woman observing beside him being his wife, Baroness Blood.


    Dozens of ghoulish cannon fodder lunged at Ricky, the vampiric nobles all calmly observing the scene as the main event before their dinner party.


    But Ricky didn''t hesitate as he swung his blade in a graceful arc, cutting through the first wave with deadly precision.


    *BAM*


    A tide of ghouls crashed against his back, but his psychic powers formed an impenetrable wall, allowing him to focus on slashing down at the vampires in front of him.


    His strikes met no resistance; it was as if they were cutting through butter as he moved forward with relentless determination, his movements a dance of death.


    Each step was calculated, each strike deadly, as his blade glowed with a fierce light, slicing through the darkness of the battlefield.


    It was something the vampires had never encountered before. Ricky''s entire presence felt akin to that of a great general commanding the anchor of a battlefield, drawing all eyes toward him.


    (Legendary Skill) (Mastery) Battle Tactics: Demonstrates unparalleled strategic acumen in warfare, applying advanced tactics for victory.


    The tides of the ghoulish hordes began to shift according to Ricky''s whims, the skill borrowed from Alexander granting him the ability to control the surging rapids of enemies as he started utilizing his skills to their fullest potential.


    *BOOM*


    "SCREEEEEEEE!" The ghoul shrieked as they were pushed into a psychic construct resembling a furnace by a barrage of cannons, while Ricky slashed through the foes behind him.


    One of the ghouls managed to push through, but Ricky smiled, his eyes perceiving everything around him.


    He created a narrow opening that the horde eagerly surged toward and suddenly, he tossed his ebony blade into the air and pulled out the solar flare bow.


    Drawing it back, the horde formed a single-file line as rays of sunlight pulsed from his bow, glowing golden in response to Alexander''s legendary marksmanship.


    *Whoosh*


    Ricky''s fingers released the golden bowstring, and the arrow ascended gracefully, soaring forward as the entire area was bathed in a radiant golden light.


    *BOOOOM*


    "SCREEEEEEEEE!" The ghouls shrieked as they were reduced to ash, the arrow piercing straight through their heads while their bodies were greedily consumed by the sunlight.


    Meanwhile, Baron Blood watched in horror as his minions fell like leaves before the typhoon that was Ricky.


    Having fought Ricky just a month ago, it now felt as if he were witnessing a completely different person.


    Baron Blood''s furious assault halted for a split second as he, too, glanced upward as his gaze followed Ricky''s, noticing the disappointed expressions of the noble vampires within Dracula''s circle.


    Their faces, etched with superiority, gazed down at Baron Blood with disdain.


    The subtle sneers and condescending glances cut deeper than any sword ever could, their judgment a bitter reminder of his failures.


    "How is this possible?" Baron Blood muttered, his grip tightening as Baroness Blood took his hand.


    "I need to finish this before my image is destroyed any further." Baron Blood seethed, seeing his position at Dracula''s side being mocked every second he didn''t kill Ricky.


    "Do not worry, my love. Let us wear him down along with the other pests before settling your rage." Baroness Blood smiled warmly at him while Baron Blood began to calm down, continuing to wait until Ricky grew more fatigued.


    Chores was fighting against the relentless tide of vampires trying to rip him apart and although his strength towered over them, their sheer numbers were gradually wearing him down.


    *BAM*


    Just as fourteen ghouls were about to attack Chores from his blind spot, Ricky created a mental barrier before slashing down, killing them all in a single strike.


    At that moment, Chores realized he was essentially in the way, so he scooped up Barko and, desperately weaving around the remaining ghouls, started bolting to the side.


    Some of the ghouls stared at Chores''s retreating figure, only to have Ricky''s blade slice their heads clean off in the next second.


    However, instead of pursuing Chores, the horde were suddenly directed at Ricky, rushing toward him with renewed intensity.


    "So, you have acquired the Tears of Mother Mary?" Dracula mused, casting a sidelong glance at Ricky before turning his attention back to Abraham.


    "Twenty years, twenty f*cking years, I spent refining myself in the Vatican for this very moment." Abraham raged, popping the caps off the vials he had acquired for this occasion.


    "I already know, Abraham-" Dracula began, but Abraham''s eyes flared with desperation.


    "YOU DON''T KNOW ANYTHING, DRACULA!" Abraham roared, his voice filled with hatred as he dumped the vials onto the floor.


    "But you f*cking will."


    Suddenly, a blinding white light erupted in the room, forcing everyone to shield their eyes and when they finally dared to open them, confusion swept through the crowd.


    Abraham stood at the center, his body radiating a pure, holy energy that felt like it was drawn straight from the very air around him.


    As they watched in awe, the light coalesced into a breathtaking figure, the embodiment of the purest woman in the Christian faith: Mother Mary.


    The vampires, momentarily paralyzed by the spectacle, quickly snapped into action, ready to pounce and tear Abraham apart.


    But Dracula, a twisted smile on his lips, raised a hand to halt them, his gaze fixated on the miraculous vision before him.


    "Come, Abraham, let me see if those twenty years have paid off!" Dracula said, spreading his arms wide, his voice dripping with mockery and excitement.


    Yet, it was clear that his words were aimed at something, or someone, much deeper than Abraham himself, as if he sought to taunt the very essence of the holy power that now surrounded him.


    The air crackled with tension, an electric charge building in the room as the two forces prepared to clash.


    Abraham''s body shook, his essence draining with each passing second to sustain the manifestation and yet, his smile only widened.


    Tears began to pour from Mother Mary, sorrowful at the pain this man endured from the evil beings before him.


    The ethereal figure placed a hand on Abraham''s head, stroking it gently as the last of his stamina was drained by the spell.


    As he fell to the ground, he looked up to see Mother Mary clasp her hands together, radiating a wave of holy power around her.


    Any vampire in the vicinity was instantly vaporized by the pure holy energy, and those further away couldn''t fully escape its devastating effects.


    Contrary to a sane response, Dracula remained motionless, using no magic, appearing completely defenseless and this only made Abraham incredibly wary.


    But when Mother Mary extended her previously praying hands, Abraham grinned madly, knowing he had achieved his goal.


    "MOTHER MARY''S FORGIVENESS!" Abraham yelled, releasing an intensified blast of holy power.


    Mother Mary cried, feeling no hate as she attacked Dracula, only sorrow for his being consumed by the darkness of the world.


    Using the sheer power of her forgiveness, she shone down all the holy power she could muster to eradicate this evil from the world.


    The onslaught raged for an agonizing five minutes, each second stretched taut as Mother Mary channeled every ounce of her divine essence into the attack.


    Her radiant light surged forth, illuminating the room and leaving all present, including Ricky, utterly spellbound.


    The sheer magnitude of the assault was breathtaking; its power was so profound that the very air shimmered with holy energy, banishing all the ghouls present within the hall within Dracula''s castle.


    The noble vampires recoiled in fear and awe, shielding their eyes as Mother Mary''s radiant aura illuminated the entire chamber.


    Her divine light pierced through the darkened halls of Dracula''s castle, forcing some of the vampires to stagger away from the railings, retreating from the overwhelming presence.


    Waves of pure light cascaded like a relentless tide, obliterating the darkness and leaving nothing but ash in its wake.


    The aura radiated an undeniable gravitas, a testament to the might of the divine that stood against the darkness.


    Abraham felt tears streaming down his face, overwhelmed with emotion as he believed he had finally fulfilled his promise to his family.


    For a brief moment, a wave of bliss washed over him, the weight of his past lifting as he glimpsed hope on the horizon.


    But that serenity was shattered by the sound of manic laughter echoing through the chaos, cutting through the divine light like a dark knife.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Dracula''s maniacal laughter rang out, echoing ominously within the radiant aura of the attack.


    Mother Mary concentrated fiercely, her radiant form straining to purge Dracula from existence.


    Holy power surged through her, a divine torrent aimed directly at the heart of darkness, but instead of succumbing, Dracula only laughed harder, the sound echoing like thunder through the chamber.


    The two distinct uses of Holy Power lay starkly evident before them: one to heal, mending the wounds of the faithful; the other to obliterate evil, a weapon forged in the fires of righteousness.


    Yet, even with all her might, the power seemed to falter against Dracula''s dark essence, swirling around him like smoke against a raging fire.


    As Mother Mary''s attack began to wane, the brilliance that had filled the room dimmed, revealing a Dracula unscathed, standing completely naked and defiantly amidst the remnants of the divine light.


    Abraham froze, his breath hitching as he gazed upon Dracula''s form, a sight so grotesque it churned his stomach.


    The air thickened with an oppressive dread, each moment stretching painfully as he took in the horrifying visage before him.


    "N-No." Abraham''s voice quivered as he fell to his knees, the weight of despair crashing down on him like a tidal wave.


    He gazed up at Dracula, who laughed even harder, relishing the moment as he spread his arms wide, a grotesque parody of welcome.


    "N-No, you d-didn''t." Abraham''s breath quickened, panic rising in his chest as he frantically scanned the vampire''s body, searching for any sign of the holy power he had unleashed.


    "Yes, Abraham, thanks to your family, to their hard work in breeding over the years, I HAVE FINALLY CONQUERED HOLY POWER!" Dracula''s voice boomed through the chamber, manic laughter spilling from his lips as he flexed his body in a display of twisted triumph.


    To Abraham''s horror, Dracula''s pale body was a grotesque canvas of writhing faces of all of his loved ones, each one contorted in expressions of anguish and despair.


    They crawled over his skin, desperately trying to escape the suffocating prison of flesh that housed them.


    Their eyes were wide with terror, mouths open in silent screams, their sorrow palpable in the air. Dracula had harvested the very souls of those he had consumed, binding them to him in a perverse display of power to escape the chains of being punished by divinity.


    The sight made Abraham''s stomach churn, a visceral reaction that clawed at his insides.


    Each face told a story of pain and betrayal, a testament to the countless lives Dracula had extinguished.


    The abomination before him was not merely a vampire; he was a living nightmare, a being that had twisted the sanctity of life into a grotesque spectacle.


    "For twenty years, you sought the Vatican''s aid, desperate for its holy power," Dracula taunted, his voice dripping with sadistic glee.


    "And for twenty years, I have reveled in your suffering, using that time to siphon the flesh and souls of your family into my very being!" Dracula''s maniacal laughter echoed through the chamber, reverberating against the cold stone walls, each cackle a cruel reminder of Abraham''s failures.


    Abraham saw it, the faces of the people who had fallen because of his foolishness.


    Each one was a haunting echo of a life snuffed out, a dream extinguished in the wake of his misguided hope.


    Their expressions twisted in agony, mouths open in silent screams, eyes wide with fear and sorrow.


    It shattered his heart further, each visage a reminder of the unbearable weight of his choices.


    As the enormity of his failure washed over him, Abraham felt a fissure open deep within.


    It was a crack in his very soul, letting the cold darkness seep in, threatening to extinguish the last flicker of hope that remained.


    Tears streamed down his cheeks, each drop a testament to the pain he had inflicted, the lives he had unwittingly sacrificed in his quest for redemption.


    "Don''t you see, Abraham?" Dracula purred, his voice dripping with malicious delight.


    "You were alive because I allowed it. Every moment of your pitiful existence was a game to me, and whenever you thought you were taking a step forward, I was always three steps ahead." Dracula''s gleeful smile blossomed, a twisted flower in a garden of despair, as he reveled in Abraham''s unraveling.


    "You were never a threat, but something to pass the time as I reached my goals, a hobby as you humans say." Dracula taunted, covering his mouth in mock surprise as he reveled in Abraham''s complete breakdown, delighting in the old vampire''s day.


    "DAMMIT ABRAHAM, PULL YOURSELF TOGETHER-" Ricky yelled, but his words were cut off as the skill share with Alexander abruptly ended, and two blurs hurtled toward him, threatening to crash into his defenses.


    *BAM*


    Ricky''s body was flung to the side, and he struggled to scramble to his feet, his heart racing.


    Desperate to regain his balance, he thrust his sword into the granite before him, the blade sliding against the stone and slowing his momentum just enough to avoid a complete fall.


    "It seems we meet once more, it is a pleasure to have the chance to kill you-"


    "Oh great, it''s you again." Ricky sighed, cutting off the venomous words of Baron Blood.


    His gaze shifted, and surprise flickered across his features as he took in the woman standing beside him.


    "Holy sh*t, there are hot vampires." Ricky muttered under his breath, his eyes lingering on Baroness Blood, momentarily forgetting the danger surrounding him.


    "This is my mate, Baroness Blood." Baron Blood interjected, cutting through Ricky''s confusion as he introduced her.


    The Baroness curtsied gracefully, her demeanor both elegant and intimidating, a subtle reminder of the perilous situation at hand.


    "Greetings foolish human, today is the day that me and my mate ruin-"


    "Oh baby, you can ruin me anytime you want." Ricky unabashedly remarked, his gaze lingering on her slim features.


    "Pest." Baroness Blood sneered, her disdain palpable and at that moment, Baron Blood''s rage boiled over, and he charged at Ricky, his movements fueled by fury.


    *BAM*


    Ricky swung his sword, but Baron Blood''s claws struck the hilt, causing pain to shoot through his hands as he clenched his teeth.


    "I knew it; your skill has seemingly vanished," Baron Blood taunted, baring his fangs in a mocking grin.


    "Now you''re skills are as rubbish as they were before-"


    *SMACK*


    Ricky retaliated with a fierce headbutt to Baron Blood''s nose, causing the vampire to immediately release his grip.


    Seizing the opportunity, Ricky swung his blade while his mind completely focused on the attack ignoring the mental warning, but a powerful fist unexpectedly collided with his side, knocking the air from his lungs and sending him stumbling back.


    *CRACK*


    *COUGH*


    Ricky gasped as the air was driven from his lungs, the force of Baroness Blood''s fist shattering two of his ribs.


    Pain shot through him, and he stumbled to the side, struggling to regain his balance while clutching his injured side.


    Ricky had grown accustomed to the flow of battle being dictated by Alexander''s skill, seamlessly integrating his knowledge and instincts during their skill share.


    It was as if his own mind had taken a backseat, no longer needing to rely on his danger sense or even his own judgment.


    Every threat had been anticipated, every move calculated but now, with that connection severed, he was thrust back into the chaos of combat, feeling the absence like a void in his mind.


    *TINK*


    Baroness Blood lunged for her next attack, but was halted abruptly by an invisible wall of energy that Ricky had conjured.


    With a fierce determination, Ricky unleashed the full extent of his holy aura, causing a brilliant fire to erupt from his sword.


    As Baron Blood attempted to lunge at him, the radiant force pushed him back momentarily, creating a brief but crucial opening.


    Ricky swung his sword in a sweeping arc, channeling all his strength into the strike.


    Baroness Blood was caught off guard by the sudden onslaught, her body propelled backward but Ricky swiftly halted, shifting his trajectory mid-strike.


    Baron Blood instinctively bent backward, narrowly avoiding Ricky''s attack, but he wasn''t finished yet and with a swift motion, he hurled his sword toward the vampire, aiming for a decisive blow.


    "BLOOD BURST!" Baron Blood shouted, his body sliding against the floor as he evaded Ricky''s deadly strike.


    He watched intently as the blade embedded itself into the ground where he had just stood, its tip quivering ominously.


    A sudden tsunami of ghouls crashed against his barrier, their relentless assault swirling around Ricky like a dark tide.


    He quickly drew his bow, knocking an arrow and aiming it squarely at Baron Blood.


    Just as he was about to release the shot, a blaring alarm rang in his mind, and he instinctively turned, only to feel elongated nails pierce his flesh, a searing pain jolting through him.


    The ghouls had effectively clawed and ripped at his mental barrier, their sheer numbers overwhelming his defenses.


    In that fleeting moment of vulnerability, Baroness Blood seized the opportunity and struck him with a decisive blow


    "F*CK!" Ricky roared in pain as Baroness Blood''s nails pierced his back.


    Just as she lunged for his heart, he reacted instinctively, kicking her away with all his strength.


    Breathless, he quickly conjured a barrier in front of him, preparing to fire his bow.


    But his danger sense blared a warning, sending adrenaline surging through him as he turned just in time to see a shadow darting toward him, claws outstretched, and he knew he had to act fast.


    "BLOOD SPEAR!" Baron Blood unleashed a dark magic spell aimed straight at Ricky.


    Gritting his fangs, Baron Blood felt the sharp pain as the solar arrow pierced his knee, leaving a gaping hole.


    Ricky swung his bow at the spell with fierce determination, his mental barrier flaring to life as the two forces collided.


    A brilliant flash erupted, illuminating the chaos of the battlefield and momentarily blinding everyone caught in its radiance.


    "Full counter-"


    "UNDEAD ENCAMPMENT!" Baroness Blood shouted, unleashing her spell just as Ricky was focused on reflecting Baron Blood''s attack.


    Baroness Blood''s smile twisted into a sinister grin, bloodlust shining in her eyes as shadows coalesced around her, ready to ensnare him in a web of undead minions.


    It was only speculation, but witnessing Ricky only reflecting one attack after another, they couldn''t be sure if he could maintain that defense while simultaneously reflecting two spells at once.


    This uncertainty created an inherent blind spot in Ricky''s power, one that Baroness Blood exploited without hesitation.


    As the dark energy surged around him, the spell ensnared Ricky in mummified chains that constricted his movements.


    The oppressive weight of the black aura manifested into a coffin that materialized beside him, its surface slick with shadow.


    With each heartbeat, the coffin drew closer, threatening to seal him away in darkness and despair.


    Desperation clawed at Ricky as he struggled against his restraints, knowing he had to escape before the abyss closed in.


    *CRACK*


    The bindings constricted tighter, sending sharp pain coursing through his limbs as slight fractures formed in his arms and legs.


    The coffin loomed ominously closer, its interior adorned with glistening spikes that seemed to thirst for his blood.


    "Stop."


    Ricky''s eyes were wide, the terror reflected in their depths as the coffin inched toward him, intent on enclosing him in a suffocating embrace.


    The spikes glinted menacingly in the dim light, and he could feel the heat of his own breath mingling with the encroaching darkness.


    Each heartbeat echoed in his ears, a reminder of his impending doom, as his pupils darted frantically, searching for an escape, a glimmer of hope amid the suffocating dread that threatened to consume him.


    "STOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOP!" Ricky roared, his voice a primal echo of desperation and fury.


    The intensity of his will surged through him, igniting a fiery spark deep within as his eyes pulsed a fierce crimson, radiating raw power as psychic flames materialized around him, crackling with energy.


    "Lily, retreat-" Baron Blood barked, urgency creeping into his voice.


    But before he could finish his command, the coffin erupted in a blinding flash of dark red light, sending shards of dark magic flying in all directions.


    *BOOM*


    The spell burst from its very core, unleashing a torrent of energy that filled the chamber.


    Ricky stood at the epicenter, his entire body exuding a fierce crimson aura that pulsed with raw power.


    His gaze locked onto the two vampires, intensity radiating from him like a storm ready to break.


    "Ethereal chains!" Ricky yelled, the armor on his body glowing in streaks of red while his outward hand stretched towards the stunned Baroness Blood.


    Golden chains erupted from his palms, shimmering with an otherworldly glow, catching the two vampires off guard.


    They watched in bewilderment as the chains snaked through the air, binding Baroness Blood before she could even muster a defense.


    The ethereal links wrapped around her limbs, tightening with a fierce grip that rendered her immobile.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Ricky let out steaming breaths, his mind fraying under the weight of overwhelming hatred and bloodlust.


    The once-vibrant green of his eyes was slowly being corroded by the searing heat of crimson red, transforming his gaze into a feral glare that spoke only to quench his fury.


    "I''m going to grind your bones into dust, then f*cking snort it." Ricky said with a grin, though there was nothing humorous in his tone.


    His smile twisted into something darker, more unhinged, as the crazed bloodlust radiated from him, nearly consuming his entire being.


    His eyes glinted with a murderous intensity that made even Baron Blood, seasoned and ruthless as he was, feel a chill run down his spine.


    *CLANG*


    The ebony blade materialized in his hands just in time as Ricky braced himself, blocking Baron Blood''s oncoming attack with a forceful clash.


    Ricky''s mind materialized psychic spikes, his intent clear: he would end this now, pierce the beauty before him, no matter the cost.


    Baron Blood furiously attacked, desperate to break through Ricky''s defenses, his movements becoming more erratic and vicious.


    Each time Baron Blood swatted at Ricky''s blade, a psychic barrier would form, just enough to disrupt his momentum, causing him to destroy it.


    But with every destroyed barrier, Ricky was ready to meet the next strike, his ebony blade poised to block again.


    *Drip*


    Ricky''s mind strained under the pressure, his body trembling as blood dripped from his nose and ears.


    The effort to maintain the ethereal chains binding Baroness Blood was immense, draining his psychic reserves.


    Each second he spent holding her took away from his ability to focus on attacking Baron Blood.


    He desperately tried to form enough psychic spikes to finish the fight, but the sheer concentration required to keep the powerful vampire restrained left him vulnerable.


    His breath came in ragged gasps as he divided his strength between defense and offense, the battle becoming a war of attrition.


    The tide of the battle was gradually shifting and Ricky could feel it as the ethereal chains tightened around Baroness Blood, slowly draining the strength from her body.


    Her struggles grew weaker, and with each passing moment, the pressure on Baron Blood increased.


    Desperation clouded the vampire''s judgment, making his attacks more erratic and sloppy.


    Ricky''s bloodshot eyes flickered with anticipation, biding his time as Baron Blood swung wildly.


    Every failed strike only added to the vampire''s frustration and Ricky gritted his teeth, waiting for the perfect moment, his mind racing to find the opening that would let him end it all in one decisive blow.


    "Ah, now I see why you took such a young prote?ge? into your dirty hands, Abraham," Dracula said, his voice dripping with condescension.


    His hand rested arrogantly on Abraham''s shoulder as the old man remained frozen in shock while smirking at the sight of Ricky.


    In his mind, Dracula was genuinely surprised that the Black Knight before him, who had only gained the blade a mere three months ago, was able to hold his own against vampires who had lived within the realm of the dark arts for centuries.


    It was a rare feat, one that even piqued the ancient vampire''s interest for a brief moment but just then, his smile returned, sinister and wide.


    Nothing brought him more joy than crushing problems before they had the chance to bloom into real threats and to him, Ricky was just another sprout ready to be cut down.


    "You know what would be fun? If I tortured and killed him right in front of you." Dracula mused, a gleam of sadistic delight in his eyes.


    Abraham, desperation etched across his face, grabbed onto Dracula''s pant leg, pleading silently.


    But Dracula merely brushed him aside, the gesture dismissive, as if Abraham were nothing more than a piece of trash to be discarded.


    *BAM*


    *COUGH*


    Baron exhaled sharply, Ricky''s knee lodged into his stomach as the battered and withered knight stood above him.


    The ground beneath them was stained with the remnants of their brutal clash, a testament to the violence that had unfolded.


    In this moment, the very one he had waited for, Ricky didn''t hesitate to raise the blade into the air, his eyes narrowed and fixated solely on the vampire''s death.


    *Whoosh*


    "Hello there," Dracula said, materializing beside Ricky with an unsettling calmness as the blade swung down.


    However instead of the sight of Baron Blood''s head rolling beneath his feet, the same image of a battered vampire stood before him.


    Ricky''s focus snapped back to his wrist, where Dracula''s grip tightened unexpectedly. The sword trembled violently in his hand, barely inches from plunging into the back of Baron''s neck.


    It was only then that a dangerous dread seeped into Ricky''s mind, an all-consuming darkness that threatened to swallow him whole as his eyes remained locked on his wrist, firmly held in place by Dracula''s grip.


    *SNAP*


    "ARGH!" Ricky grunted in pain as his wrist snapped like a twig, the sharp, searing agony radiating through his arm as he was flung aside like a ragdoll.


    The ground rushed up to meet him, and he barely managed to roll to absorb the impact.


    Before he could gather his bearings, a wave of energy pulsed through the air, and Dracula unleashed a powerful and swift motion, dismantling all of Ricky''s chains and psychic barriers with an effortless flick of his wrist.


    The remnants of his defenses dissipated like mist, leaving Ricky exposed and vulnerable.


    Breathless, Ricky struggled to rise, his thoughts racing as he assessed the dire situation as he felt the weight of dread creeping back in, but he fought against it, pushing himself to focus.


    "Shoo." Dracula waved his hands dismissively at the two high-ranking vampires who had lingered at the edge of the conflict, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern.


    They bowed deeply, sensing the shift in power dynamics, and promptly vanished into the shadows, leaving only the oppressive silence of the chamber.


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    *SPLAT*


    Ricky started coughing up mouthfuls of blood, each spasm wracking his body as the intense backlash surged through him.


    The pain was like fire coursing through his veins, each drop of crimson staining the floor beneath him a stark reminder of the toll this confrontation was taking.


    Instead of merely destroying a part of his defenses, Dracula had meticulously dismantled his entire array, speck by speck, ensuring that the backlash would be far more severe than a simple break.


    "Truly a fascinating creature you are." Dracula mused, his voice dripping with a sinister charm.


    He leaned in closer, grasping Ricky''s chin with an icy grip, tilting his face from side to side as if inspecting a rare specimen.


    "I must say, you have surpassed Abraham at his age, a remarkable accomplishment in its own right." Dracula gave him a hollow compliment as Ricky''s eyes flared with anger and defiance, even as Dracula''s fingers felt like iron against his skin.


    *Smack*


    Ricky smacked Dracula''s hand away, his frustration boiling over as he tried to muster a clever retort.


    But the words faltered as he doubled over, coughing up another mouthful of blood as the metallic taste filled his mouth, and he felt a burning sensation in his throat.


    "Hahahaha~" Dracula didn''t show any anger at this, but let out an entertained chuckle.


    "Ah, humans, such stubborn creatures." Dracula sneered, casting a sidelong glance at Baron Blood and Baroness Blood.


    Their faces were painted with a mixture of embarrassment and anger, both unable to comprehend how a mere mortal could withstand their combined might.


    "Such persistence they have," Dracula remarked, his tone deceptively light yet brimming with contempt.


    The words rolled off his tongue like honey, masking the disdain he held for his underlings.


    "But alas, you''ve likely been tainted by that fool''s teachings, pity." Dracula rubbed his chin thoughtfully, contemplating how killing Ricky would deepen Abraham''s misery.


    "What is it that humans say nowadays, inhumane?" Dracula turned back to Ricky, who seemed lost in thought, staring off into the distance and with a shrug, Dracula continued his monologue, undeterred.


    "Yes, I think it would be inhumane if I didn''t at least give you a chance to attack me after I mercifully tore you to shreds in front of Abraha." Dracula chuckled, walking over to the side and spreading his arms wide.


    "Well, little Black Knight, let''s see what you''ve got," Dracula taunted, his voice dripping with mockery.


    Ricky''s eyes flickered upward to meet his gaze, but his focus remained locked on the system next to him.


    In that moment, a scroll materialized in Ricky''s hands, its surface worn and dilapidated, the edges frayed and yellowed with age.


    Dracula cast a cursory glance at the artifact, curiosity mingling with disdain as he assessed its significance.


    (Epic Item) Scroll of Meteor Fragment: Unleashes a part of a meteor when read, causing significant damage to enemies in the vicinity.


    In the next instant, Ricky ripped the scroll into pieces, the ancient parchment tearing with an almost reluctant sigh.


    Dracula, anticipating the surge of power that would follow, remained poised, his eyes fixed on Ricky as he waited for the item''s magic to take effect.


    Seconds stretched into an uneasy silence, and Dracula''s brow furrowed in confusion as he glanced around, sensing something amiss.


    His guests exchanged bewildered glances, their expressions mirroring his uncertainty. The tension in the air grew palpable as the atmosphere crackled with expectation.


    Finally, Dracula turned back to Ricky, a mixture of intrigue and annoyance flickering in his gaze, his impatience evident.


    "Well, is that all-"


    *THOOM*


    The entire castle shook violently, sending tremors through its ancient stone walls. Dracula''s head jerked upward, alarm flashing in his eyes as he realized the barrier surrounding his fortress was under assault.


    A massive rock hurtled through the air, plummeting toward them like a falling star, its descent a harbinger of chaos that threatened to shatter the protective enchantments guarding the castle.


    The ground quaked beneath him, and dust cascaded from the rafters as the impending impact loomed ever closer, promising devastation in its wake.


    "Do you truly believe that an outward assault on my barrier could turn the tide of your impending death?" Dracula asked, a smug confidence lacing his tone as he held his ground, certain of his barrier''s strength.


    But then he caught sight of Ricky squinting his eyes, a flicker of determination igniting within him.


    "Obviously not, I just wanted you to be all full of yourself until I figured out how to blow into this weird-ass whistle." Ricky scoffed, a defiant grin spreading across his face as he caught Dracula''s eye, the vampire''s expression shifting from amusement to curiosity at the peculiar object in Ricky''s hands.


    An eldritch whistle materialized in Ricky''s hands, its surface pulsating with an otherworldly energy.


    He stared at it, contemplating the last resort he had hoped to avoid and yet, in this moment, with the stakes at their highest, it seemed the only option left to him.


    "Peculiar," Dracula remarked from the far side of the hall, watching as Ricky raised the mysterious whistle, which had seemingly materialized from thin air, to his lips.


    The vampire''s interest piqued, curiosity flickering in his eyes as he anticipated the unexpected sound that might follow.


    (Legendary Item) Eldritch Call: A forbidden and vastly dangerous whistle that serves as a one time use item. Its call causes one eldritch being to your aid and will follow your entire wish for exactly thirty seconds; however if the whistle is not destroyed after the thirty seconds, the being gains an eternal foothold into your realm.


    Ricky blew into the whistle, but an eerie silence enveloped the hall. Suddenly, the entire castle shuddered, and Dracula''s pupils contracted in alarm.


    A collective gasp filled the air as onlookers witnessed reality itself seemingly tearing apart before Ricky''s eyes.


    Tendrils emerged from the rift, snaking outward and pulling the very fabric of existence farther apart, creating a haunting spectacle that left everyone frozen in disbelief.


    The sheer power emanating from the being clawing its way out of the torn void sent a shiver down their spines, causing their undead skin to crawl.


    Its presence radiated an oppressive energy that weighed heavily on the air, making it clear that whatever emerged was beyond their comprehension, a force capable of unraveling their very existence.


    "I, Xolthar of the Whispering Void, have answered your call~" Xolthar screeched, his voice echoing with an otherworldly resonance that pierced the very fabric of reality.


    The sound was a cacophony of madness, causing everyone''s ears to bleed, the raw intensity overwhelming their senses.


    Ricky, eyes ablaze with a mix of defiance and dread, pointed directly at Dracula, whose pupils shrank in horror at the sight of the entity emerging from the abyss.


    "NO-"


    "Kill that f*cking vampire."


    *BOOOM*


    A black tendril shot forth, lashing out at Dracula just as he attempted to rush toward Ricky.


    The strike was swift and merciless, sending the ancient vampire crashing into the wall behind him with an unimaginable force, the impact reverberating through the castle and shaking the other vampires to their very core.


    "Very well." Xolthar mused, its voice dripping with dark amusement.


    Ricky''s strategy was straightforward: he aimed to unleash everything at his disposal, his items, his skills, and within thirty seconds to eliminate Dracula in one decisive strike.


    With the looming presence of Xolthar, he had the perfect opportunity to catch the vampire lord off guard and execute his plan with brutal efficiency.


    Ricky quickly enveloped himself in the protective aura of two powerful items that granted him invincibility.


    With a swift motion, he tore open a scroll, unleashing its magical energy, and then sprinkled himself with a strange, sparkling dust that shimmered like stars in the night sky.


    (Epic Item) Ethereal Veil Scroll: Unfurling this scroll envelops the user in a cloak of invisibility, allowing them to move unseen for a limited time. The scroll disintegrates after use, leaving no trace.


    (Epic Item) Dust of Disappearance: Sprinkling this magical dust on oneself grants temporary invisibility from all and any eyes.


    The entity''s tendrils danced through the air, coiling and uncoiling with lethal grace, creating a mesmerizing yet terrifying spectacle.


    Each movement exuded a sense of intent, as if they sought their next victim with a predatory hunger.


    Despite the searing pain radiating through his body, Dracula staggered to his feet, his form imposing yet momentarily vulnerable.


    His eyes, usually filled with the confidence of centuries, now blazed with a volatile mixture of rage and fear, a rare and unsettling emotion for a creature of his ancient stature.


    The palpable tension in the air hung heavy as the two forces prepared to clash, the stakes higher than ever.


    "You think this abomination can defeat me?" Dracula spat, his voice laced with a mixture of defiance and disbelief as he glared at the otherworldly presence.


    The power radiating from Xolthar stirred a dark memory within him, a remnant of the ancient master he once served and yet, beneath that bravado, there was an unmistakable tremor of uncertainty.


    Drawing upon the depths of his dark magic, he began to gather his strength, shadows swirling around him like a storm.


    Dark energy crackled with an ominous hum, coiling and flickering as he prepared to unleash his counterattack.


    His hands glowed with a fierce black light, illuminating the tension in the chamber as he readied himself for the impending clash.


    But Xolthar was relentless, launching another tendril that snaked through the air like a predator closing in on its prey. It wrapped around Dracula''s leg with an iron grip, yanking him toward the eldritch entity with a force that defied all resistance.


    Dracula''s eyes widened in horror as he realized the futility of his struggles; the tendrils tightened around him, their iridescent scales slicing into his flesh with a searing pain.


    Desperation clawed at him, forcing a primal instinct to take over and with a swift, brutal motion, he raised his claws and severed his own leg, the act of self-mutilation a desperate gamble for survival.


    Blood sprayed in crimson arcs, but it was enough to free him from Xolthar''s grip, leaving him to stagger back, gritting his teeth against the pain and seething with a fury that ignited the air around him.


    Hatred fueled Dracula''s eyes, a fierce blaze that ignited the darkness surrounding him as his severed leg writhed into a concentrated explosion of power, the energy radiating from him in a blinding flash.


    *BOOOM*


    The decapitated leg exploded within Xolthar''s tendrils, sending shards of flesh and bone scattering like confetti.


    Before Dracula could fully process the chaos, an arrow suddenly launched toward him, forcing him to jerk his head to the side.


    In that fleeting moment, the original arrow morphed into nine additional arrows, each one splitting into a deadly rain of projectiles aimed to pierce him from every angle.


    Dracula''s instincts kicked in as he barely managed to dodge the onslaught, the arrows whistling past him and embedding themselves into the castle walls with bone-jarring thuds.


    The air hummed with the tension of impending doom as he prepared to retaliate, a glint of determination flickering in his eyes.


    (Epic Item) Mirage Stone: Throwing this small, shimmering stone creates a brief but convincing illusion of the user and their surroundings, perfect for misdirection.


    "USELESS!" Dracula bellowed, uncaring at which was the real arrow and unleashing his fury as he exploded outward in a terrifying array of dark energy.


    The shockwave rippled through the hall, distorting the air and sending debris scattering in every direction and disintegrating the arrows.


    From the remnants of his severed limb, another leg sprouted, grotesquely knitting itself back together as if mocking the very concept of mortality.


    Clasping his hands together, Dracula enveloped himself in a blood-red armor, the intricate carvings shimmering ominously against his pale skin.


    He readied himself for battle, his presence now radiating a terrifying elegance, each detail of the armor reflecting his centuries of power and cunning.


    As the smoke began to part, it revealed the looming figure of Xolthar, a nightmarish silhouette that seemed to pulse with the very essence of the void.


    In a millisecond, the eldritch being closed the distance, leaving Dracula no time to utter a single word of defiance.


    *BOOM*


    Xolthar''s fist plunged into Dracula''s heart, the impact so immense that the ancient vampire''s body momentarily morphed, twisting under the sheer force.


    Dracula felt his essence begin to liquefy, a horrifying sensation coursing through him as the core that had endured the sands of time buckled under the overwhelming force.


    It was as if the very fabric of his being was unraveling, the centuries of power and influence dissolving like mist before a rising sun.


    *Crack*


    "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Dracula roared, the sound reverberating through the castle as he felt his magic core within his heart constrict and slither like a serpent.


    A deep, primal fear gripped him as he realized that Xolthar''s attack had done more than just injure him; it had inflicted a wound that defied healing.


    The knowledge that this eldritch being had found a way to sever his connection to the dark arts ignited a furious rage within him.


    Every fiber of his being screamed for vengeance, yet the reality of his impending demise loomed over him like a dark cloud, suffocating and unrelenting.


    ''Twenty-eight, dammit.'' Ricky muttered through gritted teeth, the pressure in his chest building as he crushed the whistle in his hands.


    He watched, heart racing, as Xolthar began to be pulled back into the void from which he came.


    "Remember, mortal: the Whispering Void is never sated, we will remember you." Xolthar screeched, his voice echoing ominously through the castle, a final warning laced with a promise of future consequences as he accepted his continued imprisonment.


    As the last tendril of the eldritch being vanished into the swirling darkness, Ricky felt a mix of relief and dread wash over him.


    "I have decided that mere torture is too good for you. No, I will rip open your stomach, pull out your intestines, and drink your blood through them like a straw." Dracula''s chilling words echoed throughout the chamber, each syllable dripping with sadistic delight.


    Ricky tightened his grip on the ebony blade, its cool surface grounding him as he tucked away another item, readying himself for the oncoming storm.


    Dracula''s body appeared to be crumbling, the aftermath of enduring Xolthar''s assault evident in his disheveled state.


    Yet, despite his weakened form, his eyes burned with a ferocious bloodlust.


    In an instant, his entire being erupted in a terrifying display of dark power, sending shockwaves of dread rippling through the onlookers.


    The atmosphere shifted, heavy with oppression, as the full weight of Dracula''s towering might bore down upon them.


    Every gaze in the room was fixed on Ricky, anticipation hanging thick in the air, the impending clash of titans drawing nearer.


    It couldn''t compare to Xolthar''s speed, but Dracula closed the distance between them in the blink of an eye, his fist clenched, eager to hear the satisfying crack of Ricky''s bones before fulfilling his gruesome promise.


    In that pivotal moment, Ricky pulled out the vorpal mirror shard as its shimmering surface reflected not Dracula''s looming figure but Ricky, and as he held it aloft, the very fabric of space began to warp and twist around them.


    Suddenly, Dracula''s fist plunged into a doppelganger of Ricky, absorbing all the damage directed at him like a dark shadow feasting on light.


    Seizing the moment, Ricky ripped a talisman from his belt, its intricate patterns glowing ominously in the shifting light.


    Without hesitation, his eyes ignited with a fierce crimson glow, and he was enveloped in a shimmering aura that mirrored the agile, fluid grace of a moonlit dance.


    The world around him fell away, leaving only the rhythmic pulse of his newfound power, ready to unleash chaos upon the vampire lord.


    *BOOM*


    Dracula''s hand shattered the doppelganger, but his eyes widened in disbelief as he beheld Ricky, who had allowed himself to be consumed by the ebony blade.


    Red energy crackled around his hands, a tempest of power swirling with palpable intensity.


    Ricky poured every last ounce of his strength into this one, decisive slash, his hollow scarlet eyes locking onto Dracula with an unwavering focus.


    "Impossible." Dracula breathed, the weight of the moment pressing heavily upon him.


    His entire being was enveloped in a crimson glow, radiating raw energy as he prepared for the inevitable clash.


    In an instant, Ricky swung down with a force that echoed like thunder, the air splitting around him as the dark blade descended.


    Everything had led to this moment, the culmination of leaving New York behind, the countless choices along the way, and the relentless drive to better himself.


    As Ricky prepared to strike, he felt the weight of every decision pressing down on him, each step along the road a testament to his growth and determination.


    This was not just a battle against Dracula; it was a declaration of his resolve to embrace his destiny and take his first bold step forward into the unknown.


    *THOOOM*


    A terrifying explosion erupted, a chaotic fusion of red and black energy crackling violently together, sending a wave of dust spiraling upward and obscuring everyone''s vision.


    Abraham, witnessing the spectacle from the side, clawed at the air as if trying to grasp the hope that surged within him.


    His breath hitched, and for the first time in ages, a flicker of optimism ignited in his heart, causing a tentative smile to break through the despair that had long held him captive.


    "Kid-"


    *PFFFFFT*


    But when Ricky took that first step into the unknown, marking his initial progress toward a new destiny.


    He was utterly crushed.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Dracula''s laughter echoed through the chaos, a chilling sound that cut through the swirling remnants of energy as he stood alone amidst the devastation.


    Dracula''s eyes gleamed with triumph as he surveyed the destruction, his gaze settling on Abraham, whose hope had been so fervently ignited just moments before.


    The overwhelming force of Dracula''s dark energy surged forward amidst their confrontation, a tidal wave of malevolence that swept away Ricky in an instant as he didn''t even get the chance to swing down the ebony blade.


    Every ounce of strength he had gathered seemed to dissipate in the face of such relentless power, leaving him reeling and gasping for breath beneath the weight of despair.


    "Oh, Abraham, how could you ever believe that the young fledgling over there could defeat me for even a second? How senile have you become?!" Dracula bellowed, his voice dripping with mockery.


    Despite the deep, gnawing pain in his core, a reminder of the fierce struggle he had just endured, he couldn''t suppress the elation swelling within him.


    He basked in the sight of Abraham''s faltering spirit, drawing strength from the despair that enveloped the once-hopeful Van Helsing.


    "It''s impossible, I¡ªI can''t." Abraham stammered, collapsing to his knees, the weight of despair crushing him.


    Dracula merely shook his head, a smirk creeping across his lips as he turned his attention back to Ricky, reveling in the victory that felt almost tangible


    "Ricky, Ricky!" Alexander, who had been tucked away, emerged with some scratches of his own and tapped his cheek.


    "Ricky, Ricky!" Henry repeated, seeing Ricky completely out of it as the man was barely holding onto life with the only thing keeping him alive being his healing factor.


    Everything felt useless. Ricky could only look upwards, his breath shallow and ragged as he lay amidst the devastation.


    His armor was a mangled wreck, caved in around him, while the weight of Dracula''s power had left his bones shattered and his organs bruised.


    The excruciating pain coursed through him, a stark reminder of his fragility against the ancient vampire''s might.


    In that moment, he was nothing more than a broken knight, stripped of strength and hope, staring up at the looming figure of his adversary.


    "How was it?" Dracula loomed over Ricky, a cold smile twisting his lips as his familiar slithered back into the crevices of his armor. His eyes, dark and piercing, locked onto Ricky''s gaze.


    "How was it witnessing true power?" Dracula''s voice dripped with condescension, relishing the moment as he savored the young man''s suffering.


    He knew Ricky was merely on the cusp of greatness, a fleeting glimpse of the strength that he could only dream about.


    There was a satisfaction in knowing he had crushed those aspirations, leaving only despair in his wake.


    "When I said it was impossible, I didn''t mean to demean myself, but you," Dracula said, his finger pointing accusingly at Ricky, whose hollowed breath barely escaped his lips as he met the vampire''s malicious grin.


    "All that power you possess, the gifts bestowed upon you, and you believe that you are powerful." With a swift motion, Dracula tore away Ricky''s armor, allowing him to breathe more easily, but his intentions were anything but merciful.


    "Real power doesn''t come to those who are born the strongest, the fastest, or the smartest." Dracula continued, his eyes locked onto Ricky''s as he hovered a hand over his own heart, his words seemingly resonating dip into Ricky''s mind.


    "No, it comes to those willing to do anything to achieve it." Dracula looked Ricky dead in the eyes, knowing that Ricky wasn''t like him in that sense.


    "The reason you lost today is because you were too weak to grasp that very important fact." His words hung in the air, heavy with meaning, as he lifted Ricky off the ground, an embodiment of his own might.


    "But I can give you a chance to truly take that power into your own hands, for the first tiem in your life." Dracula gripped Ricky''s throat, holding him up inot the air towards the vampires who slowly returned to the balcony at the might that was their leader.


    "I will rip your core from your body and claim it as my own," Dracula declared, his voice low and menacing.


    "But I will offer you a chance to be reborn as a vampire, if you swear your loyalty to me right now." Dracula lifted his gaze to meet Ricky''s, offering the black knight his only chance at survival, while Ricky struggled to catch his breath.


    For the first time in Ricky''s tumultuous, self-deprecating existence, the desire to live ignited within him.


    For the first time in Ricky''s miserable, self-deprecating life, he felt a genuine desire to live.


    It was a slow revelation, creeping in like the first light of dawn after a long night, but he could finally see what he wanted from life.


    As he gazed at the outstretched hand before him, one thought, one action surged above the rest.


    *SPIT*


    "Go f*ck yourself," Ricky gasped, spitting a glob of blood-laced saliva into Dracula''s face.


    In that moment, he recognized the position they were both in with Dracula, wielding power over life and death, and himself, faced with the abyss of despair.


    Ricky had been on the other side before, holding someone''s fate in his hands and he had always vowed that if he found himself in such a situation, he would never bow his head or surrender to another in such a cowardly way.


    That wasn''t the type of man he was, and it was something he never wanted to be.


    "Well, it matters not, for I was going to rip that core out of your heart either way." Dracula wiped the blood from his face, a sinister smile creeping across his lips.


    He placed his hand over a part of his stomach, his fingers curling as if relishing the thought of the torment to come.


    "However, before I do, I want you to feel the pain that will scar your very soul." Dracula seemingly promised and with a flick of his wrist, dark energy coalesced around his hand, pulsating ominously as he drew closer to Ricky.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Ricky screeched, the sound tearing from his throat as Dracula''s cruel intentions materialized into excruciating reality.


    The moment Dracula unleashed his magic, a searing wave of agony crashed over him like molten iron poured into an open wound.


    Pain radiated through his body, each pulse of dark energy countering the remnants of his own strength, leaving behind nothing but an aching void.


    Every muscle in Ricky''s body felt as though it was being pulled apart, stretched to the breaking point.


    His bones groaned under the pressure, and the sensation was akin to being caught in a vice that tightened with every heartbeat.


    Ricky could feel the magical ripples gnawing at the edges of his consciousness, tearing at the very fabric of his being.


    It was as if Dracula had reached inside him, dragging out every shred of vitality and replacing it with raw, unfiltered suffering.


    The air grew thick with the scent of his own burning flesh, the heat radiating from his body in waves.


    His skin crawled as if alive, each nerve ending screaming in protest and Ricky''s vision blurred, darkness creeping in around the edges as he fought against the overwhelming tide of pain.


    "Do not worry, Abraham. I''ve decided to keep you alive in the coming future since your futile games amuse me too much to merely stop." Dracula''s voice dripped with mockery as he gazed back at Abraham, a sinister smile playing on his lips.


    Dracula merely shook his head with a light sigh, his amusement evident as he regarded the old rat trying to scurry away.


    "But I-"


    "Your existence doesn''t matter to me at the moment, Abraham. I have what I want, and you''ve served your purpose." Dracula continued, a cruel smirk curling at the corners of his lips.


    "So leave, do what you''re good at, and scurry away. Shoo, shoo." Dracula''s hand was more than just an insult; it was a dismissal, an indication that the vampire considered him utterly insignificant.


    Abraham''s heart sank as he watched Ricky, his once-promising pupil, writhing in agony beneath the weight of Dracula''s dark power.


    The sound of tortured screams echoed in the night, reverberating through the air like a haunting melody.


    For a moment, Abraham was paralyzed, an overwhelming sense of helplessness washing over him.


    But as he stared at Ricky''s contorted form, a profound realization hit him like a bolt of lightning.


    ''Can I really kill Dracula?''


    The thought echoed in Abraham''s mind like a haunting refrain.


    Abraham stood frozen, taking in the sight of Dracula: the embodiment of darkness, a powerhouse immune to holy power, and poised to claim Ricky''s core after relishing in his torment which would bring him to a new level entirely.


    ''N-No, I can''t kill Dracula.''


    The reality of his situation crashed down upon him like a tidal wave and in that instant, Abraham felt as if his entire existence had shattered, every hope and aspiration for revenge collapsing into dust.


    All those years spent seeking vengeance, all the sacrifices made, seemed to culminate in this one moment of utter futility.


    As he glanced at Ricky, struggling under the weight of Dracula''s cruel magic, a flicker of remembrance ignited within him.


    He recalled the tenacity and resilience of the young man, the very qualities that had pushed him to confront a being as formidable as Dracula in his prime.


    Ricky had done what he could when all seemed lost; he had faced the darkness head-on, even when he couldn''t land a blow.


    In that moment of clarity, a new resolve began to take shape within Abraham''s heart as he steeled himself, turning away from Ricky, from the impending doom that seemed to loom ever closer.


    With determination coursing through his veins, he sprinted toward the window, heart pounding in his chest.


    The glass glimmered ominously in the dim light, a barrier separating him from freedom and the chance to devise a plan.


    He could hear Dracula''s mocking laughter behind him, the cruel sound sharpening his resolve.


    "You see, little Black Knight, this is who Abraham truly is." Dracula''s voice dripped with disdain as he turned Ricky to face the fleeing figure of Abraham, a mere shadow against the darkness.


    Ricky''s heart sank as he watched Abraham sprint away, a sense of betrayal mixed with desperation clawing at his chest.


    But the sight of Chores, valiantly battling a ghoul just a few feet away, caught his attention.


    Chores was fighting with every ounce of strength he could muster, his movements desperate yet determined as he grappled with the ghoul''s twisted form.


    As Chores caught sight of Abraham, his expression shifted from fierce concentration to wide-eyed disbelief.


    For a moment, time seemed to stand still, and the chaos around them faded into the background.


    Abraham''s flight triggered something deep within Chores, a spark of urgency ignited by the thought of losing another ally.


    However, in that fleeting moment, Abraham''s gaze shifted, turning heartfelt and sincere.


    Chores felt his entire body stiffen at the realization, a chill racing down his spine as he understood the implications of Abraham''s gaze.


    With urgency surging through him, he scooped up Barko and rushed towards Ricky.


    "Now watch the person you trusted, the one who led you all the way here for his own selfish gain, leave you for dead," Dracula taunted, his laughter echoing cruelly in the air.


    Ricky forced his eyes open, the world around him coming into focus as he watched Abraham sprint toward the window, desperation fueling his every movement.


    In that heart-stopping moment, Ricky felt the full weight of despair crash over him, drowning him in a familiar tide of hopelessness.


    Here he was, at the mercy of the monstrous Dracula once more, and the sting of betrayal cut deeper than any physical wound.


    All those carefully constructed walls he had built around his emotions began to crumble.


    Usually, he buried feelings of vulnerability beneath layers of lust and cockness, but watching Abraham abandon him now cracked open the floodgates to what despair truly felt like.


    "DRACULA!" Abraham roared, tumbling out of the window in a desperate bid for vengeance.


    In a frantic motion, he crushed the necklace around his neck, and with it, his appearance began to shift, transforming him in ways that transcended the physical.


    In the blink of an eye, the air crackled with energy as Dracula and Abraham switched places.


    Dazed and confused, Ricky blinked, his heart racing as he took in the sight of the bitter old man now smiling for the first time in front of him.


    Without a moment''s hesitation, Abraham clutched the area where his heart once beat, where his son''s heart had thudded with life, and crushed it into a fine magical powder.


    Blood immediately erupted from his mouth, staining his lips crimson as he invoked a spell that felt like a last resort.


    "Gate!" Abraham shouted, the command echoing with urgency and the moment he crushed his heart into dust, the air around him shimmered with raw power, and a massive portal began to form, pulsating with energy.


    Though immobilized by the strain of the spell, blood continued to drip from his lips, but through sheer force of will, he kept the gate open, fighting against the agony that threatened to consume him.


    Then, as if this moment had been meticulously orchestrated from the beginning, Chores hurled himself at Ricky, tackling him through the gate just as everyone else was still reeling from the chaotic upheaval of events.


    The world around them blurred into a whirlpool of colors and sounds as they hurtled into the unknown, leaving behind the nightmare they had just escaped.


    "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Dracula roared, his voice echoing with rage as he lunged from the window, a streak of darkness rushing toward Ricky with terrifying speed.


    "Don''t end up like me, kid." Abraham warned with a sad chuckle, his final words tinged with desperation before his body was ripped apart by Dracula''s oncoming figure.


    *SPLAT*


    Dracula wasted no time, his focus unwavering as he barreled toward the gate that held his new core.


    Ricky''s hollowed eyes raced at the sight of his enemy nearing, realizing with dread that Dracula was on the verge of reaching him, knowing that he was powerless to do anything.


    But in a twist of fate, from the gaps in Ricky''s armor, Henry suddenly erupted, morphing into the form of the approaching vampire lord.


    Throughout this grueling battle, Henry had remained a mere spectator, witnessing his summoner''s relentless fight and brutal beating, feeling helpless against the overwhelming odds.


    His only skill, Mimic, could only be activated once a day, rendering him effectively useless in most scenarios, until now.


    "DO NOT-" Alexander, the very same gerbil who loathed Henry to his core, reached out to stop the mocking bird only for the creature to slip through his fingers.


    *BOOM*


    With the borrowed might of a quarter of Dracula''s full power coursing through him, Henry surged forward, the bird''s heart pounding with a fierce determination that overshadowed the fear gripping him.


    As he collided with the vampire lord, it felt as if the very air around them shattered from the force of their impact, a violent symphony of power and sacrifice echoing in the stillness of the battlefield.


    It was only two seconds, a miniscule two seconds that their clash lasted, but it wasn''t just a physical confrontation; it was a testament to Henry.


    In those two split seconds, as Henry bore the weight of Dracula''s might, memories flooded his mind: the quiet moments of mocking Alexander, the battles and fun he witnessed around Ricky, and the bond that had blossomed against the backdrop of despair.


    Henry wasn''t perfect and not everyone liked him, but what made him leap forward in the state of hopelessness was watching how Ricky had stood firm when the odds seemed insurmountable.


    Deep down, Henry didn''t only want to be the center of the attention, he wanted to be in the spotlight.


    Now, with all eyes on him, in a moment of desperation on both sides, he was willing to give everything to prove that he belonged in front of everyone.


    Henry felt the heat of Dracula''s fury radiate from him, the sheer darkness threatening to consume him whole.


    But the bird pressed on, knowing that every one of these two seconds mattered.


    The pain was sharp, like shards of glass tearing through his entire being, yet it paled to the relief he felt at being useful for once. comparison to the hope that flickered in his heart.


    As the impact reverberated through the air, Dracula had staggered backwards, momentarily caught off guard by the sheer force of Henry''s sacrifice as he ripped the familiar, impersonating him, apart from his very seam.


    In that defining moment, as the gate slowly began to close, both ends of the torn apart Henry looked backwards at the hands reaching towards him.


    But only one pair truly started to rush forward.


    "YOU FOOL!" Alexander roared, brandishing his armor as he rushed toward the narrow gap of the gate, the last vestige of hope flickering before them.


    The general, a veteran of countless battles, had loathed Henry for his mocking, but in this moment, he was driven by an undeniable sense of camaraderie.


    "Y-Y-You fool." Henry whispered, tears cascading down the bird''s cheeks as he felt the weight of their shared history.


    With a wave of his hand, he sent Alexander flying backwards, and with the last bit of his magic, he tore the general away from the portal.


    In that instant, Alexander''s eyes widened in shock, a hollow realization washing over him as he watched his comrade tumble further away from salvation.


    "Henry!" Alexander cried out, desperation lacing his voice, but the words felt futile against the roaring winds of fate.


    As the gate flickered, and the last remnants of light threatened to vanish, Henry''s heart swelled with pride.


    Ricky''s outstretched hand reached desperately toward the vanishing portal, his heart pounding with the urgency of survival.


    "Henry don''t-"


    *SPLAT*


    Ricky''s desperate words were abruptly cut off as Henry''s entire body erupted into a gruesome spray of bloody smithereens as a violent burst of momentum by Dracula, who lunged forward with relentless determination.


    "NOOOOOOOOOOO-" Dracula''s roar of fury reverberated around them, a sound steeped in anguish and rage.


    His eyes blazed with a wild intensity, a dark fury that threatened to consume him and stretched out his skeletal fingers, long fingernails glinting like daggers in the fading light, reaching for the fleeting hope of victory that lay just beyond his grasp.


    But the portal was closing, its edges flickering like a dying flame, sealing away the last remnants of light and hope.


    Dracula''s nails brushed against the emptiness, mere inches from seizing Ricky and pulling him into the darkness.


    [Henry The Mockingbird Has Died]


    [Deleting]


    Ricky''s heart stopped, his breath hitching in his throat as he stared in horror at the gruesome sight before him.


    The image of his familiar, his friend, exploding into a gruesome spray of flesh and blood, splattering against him, searing into his mind.


    The once brave and slightly annoying companion was now reduced to mere paste, a visceral echo of all that had just transpired as his entire being was deleted from reality.


    The shock of it all hit him like a freight train, and in that moment, the world began to fade.


    The pain from his accumulated injuries with each wound, each bruise, and every ounce of fatigue overwhelming him.


    His vision blurred, the edges of reality softening as he felt consciousness slipping away.


    With a final gasp, Ricky slumped against the cold, unforgiving dirt, darkness closing in around him like a heavy shroud.


    "GRANDPA!" A girl''s voice pierced through the silence, urgent and filled with a radiant joy as she burst out of the log cabin in the distance.


    Her beautiful smile lit up her face, a beacon of innocence and hope but in the next instant, her expression shattered, the light in her eyes extinguished as she took in the scene before her.


    "Who are you?"


    Author''s Note: Since I was sick, I just packed everything into one Chapter so I hope you enjoyed it.

 Chapter 91 - 89: Aftermath And Commitment

    Chapter 91: Chapter 89: Aftermath And Commitment


    A woman rushed out of the cabin, her heart light and her smile bright, expecting to see her grandfather.


    But instead, her gaze fell upon three battered and bloodied figures lying where he should have been as her steps faltered, the joy that had once lit her scarred face slowly fading.


    "Who are you?" The girl asked, the smile, once so full of life, wore down into a flat, neutral expression, her features hardening as she absorbed the scene before her.


    There was no need to ask where Abraham was as his absence, paired with the broken bodies strewn across the dirt, spoke volumes.


    The weight of their arrival hit her like a wave, the implications settling in yet it was hard to truly register.


    For twenty years, the world believed Abraham was the last of the Van Helsing bloodline, a symbol of a forgotten legacy.


    But in a final act of defiance, he chose to give one last middle finger to fate by hiding away the true last Van Helsing, his granddaughter, Rachael.


    Rachael Van Helsing, daughter of Abraham''s lost son, had managed to escape the tragic fate that befell her family through a twist of chance.


    While the world thought the Van Helsing line had been snuffed out, she had been training in secret under her grandfather''s watchful eye.


    Now twenty-six, Rachael was a hardened and mature young woman, the weight of her family''s history resting heavily on her shoulders.


    A deep scar ran from her forehead down to her cheek, a constant, bitter reminder of the night her family was massacred.


    It was that scar, and the pain it carried, that had driven her to become a warrior, to uphold the legacy that so many had tried to bury.


    Abraham had taught her everything: how to hunt, how to fight, how to survive, and how to kill vampires.


    And now, as she stood before the broken bodies of those who had come in place of the man who raised her, Rachael felt the gravity of her role.


    "W-We were saved by your grandfather-URGH!" Chores attempted to rise, lifting his large hand as if to explain himself, but Rachael was quicker.


    Before he could utter a word, a sharp bolt whizzed through the air, impaling his shoulder with a sickening thud.


    The force of the impact knocked him back as pain surged through his body, his words dying in his throat.


    Rachael had materialized another bolt in her hand almost instantly, her eyes fierce with determination.


    She wasted no time, charging toward him with deadly precision, her movements fluid and practiced from years of hidden training.


    Chores glanced down at his side, seeing Ricky and Barko both unconscious, their injuries leaving him as the only one able to protect them.


    Grimacing, he yanked the bolt from his shoulder with a pained grunt, blood oozing from the wound.


    Bracing himself, he prepared for Rachael''s next attack and she was fast, too fast for him to waste any time.


    When she charged, he swung at her with all his might, expecting her to dodge. But instead, Rachael met his attack head-on and she didn''t flinch or back down.


    As his fist connected with her arm, Chores watched in disbelief as it began to transform.


    Fur sprouted from her skin, thick and dark, as her arm morphed into something otherworldly. Claws extended from her fingers, razor-sharp wolf claws, and her eyes gleamed with a wild ferocity.


    *BAM*


    Rachael''s beast-like hand caught the giant''s hand but instead of releasing it, her claws squeezed down, keeping him in place.


    Chores barely had time to register the change before Rachael made her move.


    With fast precision and overwhelming strength, she grabbed his forehead, yanking his fist forward just as her leg shot out and as her foot swept beneath him, hooking his legs out from under him in one fluid motion.


    *BAM*


    Chores toppled backward, the air knocked from his lungs as his massive body slammed into the ground.


    Summersalting forward, Chores fell on his back and winced only to open his eyes to a crossbow bolt placed at his face.


    "Who are you?" Rachael''s eyes burned with murderous intent as she pulled out her crossbow, the tip aimed directly at Chores'' chest.


    She hovered over him, her movements deliberate and steady and Chores wanted to scream out in frustration, to answer all of her demanded answers, but he bit down on the urge, forcing himself to stay calm under her gaze.


    "Friends of your grandfather-"


    *SPLAT*


    "AHH!" Chores let out a deep, guttural grunt of pain as the bolt sank into his other shoulder, the sharp tip biting into muscle.


    "First you say my grandfather helped you, lie. My grandfather doesn''t help anyone." Rachael sneered, her tone dripping with menace as if unable to believe the fact.


    "Second, you say your friends with my grandfather, lie. He doesn''t have any." Rachael''s voice was icy, her gaze narrowing while her finger hovered closer to the trigger, eyes squinting with suspicion, reading every flinch, every drop of sweat that formed on Chores'' brow.


    "Now you get one more try, who are you?" Rachael''s tone was cold, dripping with truth, and it only made Chores gulp, his breath shaking under the weight of her words.


    "It will take a while-"


    "I have nothing but time." Rachael interrupted him, gesturing to the cold, mountainous scenery, prompting Chores to nod in understanding.


    "It all started when he went to New York-"


    3 days later,


    ''Real power doesn''t come to those who are born the strongest, the fastest, or the smartest.'' The words of Dracula echoed in Ricky''s subconscious as his eyes rolled under his eyelids manically.


    ''No, it comes to those willing to do anything to achieve it.''


    *GASP*


    Ricky''s eyes flew open, his mind convinced he was on the brink of death as he reached out and felt the cool touch of the ebony blade.


    *THUD*


    His back slammed against the wall, clutching the ebony blade with a murderous intent to survive gleaming in his eyes, only to register the emptiness of the log cabin around him.


    "Argh!" Ricky grunted, his body trembling as the remnants of Dracula''s power still lingered, leaving wounds that even his healing factor had yet to fully mend.


    "Calm yourself Ricky, you have reached a safe place." Alexander spoke from the side as Ricky slumped against the wall, clutching his body in a desperate attempt to stave off the pain.


    But instead of the mighty visage of Alexander, the warrior who always spoke of glory and honor, Ricky found himself looking open a hamster gazing aimlessly at the window.


    "W-Wait, where''s Henry-" Ricky struggled to stand, but his body betrayed him, collapsing back onto the bed.


    His head jerked to the side, where he caught a glimpse of Alexander, whose little head was bowed low.


    "Ricky." Alexander''s soft tone echoed in Ricky''s ears, but he tuned him out, his focus shifting to the system panel that materialized before him.


    His gaze landed on the familiar section, frantically searching as he combed through Chester''s and Alexander''s skills, but when he reached the spot where Henry''s information should be, it was blank.


    A pit of dread settled in his stomach as the realization hit him since Henry, his loyal companion, was truly gone.


    There was no denial, no hateful words but only the weight of despair as Ricky''s head fell lifelessly against the ceiling.


    *Sniff*


    "Ah, I see that rain is afoot." Alexander sniffled, gazing up at the stormy clouds that hung heavy in the sky, yet refused to shed their tears.


    Meanwhile, Ricky simply covered his eyes, shielding himself from the world and the pain that loomed just beyond his lashes.


    "Yeah, it seems so." Ricky gnashed his teeth, his eyes squeezing shut once more as he willed himself back into a slumber, seeking refuge from the harsh reality that threatened to swallow him whole.


    3 hours later,


    Groggily opening his eyes, Ricky''s blurry vision slowly focused on the wooden beams of a log cabin ceiling as he took a deep breath, feeling slightly improved, and turned to the side.


    There, he found Rachael sitting beside him, her expression fixed in a deadpan glare that sent a shiver down his spine.


    "Why don''t you take a picture, it''ll last longer." Ricky let out a hollow chuckle, only to wince as he attempted to sit up; his injuries still hadn''t fully healed.


    Rachael remained unmoving, her gaze unwavering as she recalled the stories absorbed from Chores.


    Despite hearing everything, including the last-ditch effort of Abraham sacrificing himself to save Ricky, her expression remained stoic, masking a whirlwind of emotions just beneath the surface since there was only one thing that lingered within her.


    She couldn''t believe it.


    Although Rachael deeply loves and cherishes her grandfather, she isn''t naive about his nature. Abraham, despite his moments of tenderness, is one of the most selfish people this world had ever known.


    After all the years she spent by his side, Rachael struggles to envision her grandfather doing anything that wouldn''t ultimately serve his own interests.


    His sacrifice, while noble in the moment, feels tainted by the lingering doubt that it was also about his need for redemption, rather than purely for her sake or Ricky''s.


    So when Rachael looks at Ricky, a conflicted knot tightens in her stomach.


    She understood that saving his life had to undoubtedly benefit Abraham, but she just couldn''t quite grasp how it would serve him.


    As Rachael surveyed Ricky, she realized just how vulnerable truly was and one insurmountable fact.


    He is immensely weaker than her in every conceivable way.


    Even with the ebony blade resting by his side, its presence is insufficient to bridge the vast gap between them.


    The weight of uncertainty hung heavy in the air as she grappled with her grandfather''s motives and the fragility of the life that now hangs in the balance.


    "What, see something you like?" Ricky turned his gaze back to Rachael, still caught in her unwavering stare.


    He fought to drown his anger and sadness, slipping into a haze of desire that felt almost unconscious.


    "No, all I see is a worthless loser." Rachael remarked, her gaze sweeping up and down the broken man before her, her words laced without a hint of sincerity.


    "Ha!" Ricky let out a hollow laugh, sinking deeper into his own self-pity before finally releasing a heavy sigh.


    *Sigh*


    However, there was no clever comeback or crude attempt to steer the conversation his way, only a deep well of self-pity


    "I guess you''re right." Ricky admitted, the weight of his own despair and feeling completely sorry for himself.


    "I''ll give you a little time. Meet me outside when you''re ready." Rachael stood up, watching as Ricky covered his face, the full weight of recent events crashing down on him.


    Alone in the bed, broken and beaten, Ricky found himself at his lowest point.


    Instead of shrugging off his despair, the reality of his situation finally sank in and the emotions of his failures that he had been tucking away rose to the surface.


    From his perspective, ever since New York, he had been slapped in the face with one defeat after another, each blow compounding his sense of hopelessness.


    While there had been minor victories and close calls with death, Ricky hadn''t truly won a real fight in ages, one that truly challenged him and proved his worth.


    Then the wave of despair crashed over his psyche, mercilessly stripping away the layers of ego and narcissism that had long shielded his insecurities.


    In that moment of raw vulnerability, Ricky stood before himself and only saw a weak, defeated, and utterly exposed.


    He had grown accustomed to losing; it was a familiar, albeit painful, companion.


    But it was not the losses that haunted him now but the crushing realization that he couldn''t secure even a single win, that every effort he poured his heart into was destined to spiral into failure.


    The weight of this thought bore down on him like a heavy stone, amplifying the profound emptiness that echoed within him, a void that seemed to deepen with each painful memory of defeat.


    Ricky''s heart ached, not just from his physical injuries but from the emotional scars that had accumulated over time, leaving him feeling utterly powerless in a world that felt increasingly indifferent to his struggles.


    Deep down, Ricky felt as though every time he was on the verge of a victory, reality would come crashing down, dragging him back into a complete state of defeat.


    Each time he mustered the courage to take a step forward, he found himself retreating three steps back, as if the universe conspired against him.


    It was a cruel cycle that left him feeling utterly trapped, as though every struggle he had endured had yielded no meaningful change.


    No matter how hard he fought, everything felt achingly familiar, like a dark echo of the washed-up alcoholic he had once been in his past life.


    The haunting specter of his former self loomed over him, a constant reminder of the man he had tried so desperately to escape.


    In that moment of reflection, the weight of his failures settled heavily on his shoulders, and Ricky wondered if he would ever be able to break free from the chains of his own history.


    Struggling to confront the weight of his grim reality, Ricky stood up, instinctively searching for any trace of alcohol to help him escape his thoughts.


    Yet, for the first time, there wasn''t a single drop to be found, a cruel twist that only deepened his despair.


    In a fit of frustration, he flipped the cabin upside down, tossing aside furniture in a desperate bid to find solace in a bottle.


    It felt as if Ricky was teetering on the edge of relapsing into the crummy person he had always known himself to be, the relentless weight of his crushing defeat threatening to shatter the progress he had fought so hard to achieve.


    His body protested with every movement, the injuries inflicted by Dracula still clinging to him, refusing to heal even after the passing of what should have been a normal recovery time.


    Ricky limped out of the cabin and as he made his way outside, he caught sight of Rachael, immersed in her training.


    Her intense focus was momentarily interrupted when she spotted him, and she paused to wipe the sweat from her brow.


    There was a fleeting moment where their eyes met, and despite the chaos surrounding them, a silent understanding passed between them.


    Ricky''s heart sank further at the sight of her strength, a stark contrast to his own fragility, amplifying the sense of inadequacy that clung to him like a shadow.


    "I heard from Chores that my grandfather was training you, show me what you got so far and I''ll pick up where my grandfather left off-"


    "You don''t have to worry about that because I quit." Ricky waved off Rachael, her surprise evident as his words hung in the air.


    "I''m not being dragged around by any more Van Helsings to do their shit work!" he yelled, frustration boiling over.


    The anger he had for himself surging through him, fueling his crappy behavior as he grabbed a nearby stick, using it as a makeshift walking stick to support his battered body.


    "Young Ricky-" Alexander tried to call out to him from Chores'' shoulder, but Ricky wasn''t having any of it.


    "Chores, Alexander, Barko, get your shit; we''re leaving!" Ricky gestured, his voice sharp with urgency as he turned around, only to see Rachael striding over to him.


    "What do you mean, ''you quit''?" Rachael asked, her tone betraying confusion as if the idea were completely foreign to her as Ricky scoffed, the sound filled with frustration.


    "It means I''m leaving, going as far away as possible. Probably back to New York." Ricky replied, but Rachael tightened her grip on his arm, her resolve unyielding.


    *Ding*


    [Mission Received: Rachael Van Helsing]


    Difficulty: Hell


    Character Sheet: A


    Description: Rachael is a cold and heartless person who in more closed off than anyone you''ve met before, opening her legs could actually be easier then opening her heart as she is that hateful of the world


    Objective: Good luck.


    Reward: 300,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once: 500 Gacha or Rachael Van Helsing Powers


    Rewards:


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Have Rachael open her heart and bear her soul to you while in the process of baby making


    Rewards: Legendary Coupons x 3


    F*ck Rachael into a completely unconscious state


    Rewards: Epic Item Coupons x 10


    Finish simultaneously with Rachael on her first ever time


    Rewards: Legendary Weapon Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    "What about Dracula-"


    "WHAT ABOUT DRACULA? THAT MONSTER BROKE MY BODY INTO LITTLE F*CKING PIECES, AND I STILL FEEL THE BONES SPLINTERING BACK INTO PLACE!" Ricky yelled at Rachael, forcefully pushing her grip off him and disregarding the system.


    Ricky could still see the image of Dracula''s overwhelming strength, a force that crushed any flicker of hope left in Abraham''s vengeful heart and after what the vampire had done to him, Ricky genuinely saw no way to kill him.


    "There is no f*cking way that I, or you, or ANYONE can kill that godforsaken vampire!" Ricky was baffled he even had to say it, his voice dripping with disbelief as Rachael remained silent, processing the weight of his words.


    "This is no time to wallow-"


    "THIS IS THE PERFECT TIME TO WALLOW, TO RELISH IN MY F*CKING PITY PARTY AS THE LOSER I AM!" Ricky thumped his chest, a mix of anger and despair in his eyes, prompting a frown from Rachael at his declaration.


    "I''M GETTING MY ASS KICKED LEFT AND RIGHT, AND I''M SICK OF IT!" he vented, frustration spilling over as Rachael watched him, clearly understanding his pain but shaking her head in response.


    "My grandfather lost everything and he still continued to be a-"


    "TO BE A JERK!" Ricky laughed, finding Rachael''s words unexpectedly hilarious.


    "ABRAHAM WAS AN ASSHOLE AND ALMOST KILLED ME ALL THE TIME! Sure, he saved me once, but he''s also left me hanging repeatedly!" Ricky chuckled, gripping his head as he felt the weight of his pent-up frustration finally surfacing, teetering on the verge of a mental breakdown.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Ricky''s breath hitched, his chest heaving as they all watched him, Ricky Luciano, known for his sleazy grin and an air of invulnerability, someone who seemed unaffected by the world around him, finally broke down.


    The facade of resilience crumbled, revealing the turmoil beneath as he grappled with the weight of his emotions.


    "Why can''t I just win?" Ricky hysterically asked, his voice almost trembling with desperation as he pointed at them all.


    "WHY CAN''T I JUST F*CKING WIN!" Ricky scrambled out, the bitterness in his tone turning accusatory, as if they held all the answers he desperately sought.


    "I put everything into bettering myself and I fail. I do nothing and I fail. I do less, and what do you f*cking know? I fail!" Ricky seemingly shouted into the sky, pacing around as a manic smile crept onto his face, his hands clutching his head as his eyes reflected a wild madness.


    "When is it going to be enough? When is everything I''ve done finally going to matter? Or am I just wasting my goddamn time trying to be better when it''s easier to accept that I''ll always be worse?" Ricky''s voice rose, tinged with a mix of despair and anger.


    He began to laugh, a jagged sound that gritted his teeth together, but that lighthearted chuckle quickly morphed into something darker, more hateful, echoing the turmoil that raged within him.


    "GOD DAMMIT!" Ricky shouted, slamming his fist into a nearby tree, the impact sending shockwaves of pain up his arm.


    Anger surged within him, relentless and consuming and in a frenzied desperation, he began to hit his head against the rough bark, over and over again, as if he could knock the torment out of his mind.


    "It will never be enough."


    Those words echoed from Rachael as she stood by his side, her steady gaze piercing through the chaos surrounding him.


    Ricky then paused, momentarily arrested by the intensity of her expression while slowly turning towards her as blood trickled down his face.


    "My grandfather dedicated everything to killing Dracula and lost it all, including his life." Rachael accepted the painful truth that Abraham was never coming back, moving on in the way a true Van Helsing would.


    "But you don''t really lose, truly lose, until your last breath leaves you, before you can fulfill whatever purpose led you to the brink of death." Rachael took a step forward, her gaze unwavering as she locked onto his green eyes, searching for the spark of hope that still flickered within him.


    "Do you think putting your life on the line guarantees that you will win?" Rachael asked, her tone earnest, as if she truly sought an answer.


    "Do you believe that just because you''re strong, that makes you strong enough?" Rachael pressed on, wondering if Ricky understood the weight of her questions.


    "My grandfather loathed strength; he believed that living meant you''d never truly win, but being strong only meant you were never strong enough." Rachael said, not waiting for Ricky''s response as she recounted Abraham''s disdain for power.


    "At the end of the day, Ricky, your choices are solely in your hands." Rachael halted in front of him, meeting his gaze with unwavering intensity, even as he frowned in contemplation.


    "Not me, not Dracula, and not anyone else," Rachael shook her head, emphasizing that the decision lay solely with Ricky as she pointed at him, her gaze unwavering.


    "What is it that you truly want?" Rachael''s words seemed to back him into a corner, and Ricky could only laugh in response, the sound tinged with bitterness.


    *Sigh*


    But no reply came as Ricky stood there, absorbing her words as he simply shook his head with a stupid smile, a mix of confusion and resignation playing across his features.


    "Listen, you''re honestly better off without me. Everything I''ve done seems to amount to nothing. I don''t even have a home anymore cause I was kicked out of it, and through all of that I try to shrug it off, but let me ask you something." Ricky pointed at the quiet Rachael, who waited patiently for him to continue.


    "Why should I even f*cking care?" Ricky asked genuinely, his voice laced with frustration as he surveyed the situation before him, feeling it all to be utterly meaningless.


    "Why should I put my life on the line just because one of your asshole ancestors made a deal with God to kill Dracula?" Ricky laughed in her face, seemingly mocking her situation but Rachale merely swallowed it.


    "You know, you''re a lot like my grandfather." Rachael replied, crossing her arms without skipping a beat as Ricky sighed, irritated by her deliberate evasion of his question.


    "But at least my grandfather fought for something," Rachael said, a challenging glint in her eyes and Ricky picked up on her provocation immediately, his annoyance flaring.


    "What do you even fight for Ricky Luciano-"


    "Myself!" Ricky shouted defiantly, but Rachael shook her head, recognizing the contradiction in his words.


    "How can you truly fight for yourself when all you seem to do is run away?" Rachael''s question pierced through his defenses, igniting something deep within him.


    "I AM NOT RUNNING AWAY, OKAY?!" Ricky yelled, but the desperation in his voice hinted at his struggle to convince not just her, but himself as well.


    Rachael remained unconvinced, her steady gaze challenging him to confront the truth he was trying to avoid.


    "How is what you''re about to do not running away? How is abandoning all of this fighting for yourself?" Rachael''s words struck Ricky to his core, leaving him momentarily speechless as he wanted to retort, to defend his choice, but the words died in his throat.


    "Anyways, it doesn''t matter, because after what Chores told me, Dracula is going to chase you down to the ends of the earth." Rachael''s revelation hung in the air, but Ricky scoffed, dismissing it as pure nonsense.


    The thought of being hunted by a monster felt surreal, but deep down, he could feel the truth of her words pressing against the walls he had built around himself.


    "From what he said, Dracula''s core has splintered. If he can''t repair it, he won''t be able to enact his master plan of forming a monster kingdom," Rachael revealed, her voice steady but laced with urgency. She noticed the distant sound of screams coming from the cabin but assumed it was just the usual chaos of whatever vampire Abraham had killed before coming through the portal.


    "That''s why he hunted my grandfather in the first place. He''ll chase you to the ends of the earth to retrieve that core from your chest." Rachael pointed at Ricky''s heart, and her expression softened in surprise as she realized the gravity of her words.


    The density of the magic that Ricky wielded due to his emotions was even purer than her own, a realization that surprised Rachael and deepened her understanding of why Dracula coveted it so desperately.


    It was as if Ricky''s very essence resonated with a raw, untamed power that called to the vampire, an allure that went beyond mere strength.


    This clarity made her acutely aware in a mere instant at why her grandfather would do such a selfless sacrifice.


    "You have this gift yet you refused to use it and instead run away again-"


    "Goddammit, I''m not running away! I¡ª" Ricky attempted to cut her off, but then the weight of his words hit him and in that moment of clarity, he finally realized the truth behind his own denial.


    He was running away again.


    Ricky''s breath hitched as he stared into Rachael''s eyes, the weight of his realization settling heavily on his chest.


    The words he had just uttered echoed in his mind, and he felt the walls he had built around himself begin to crumble.


    He was doing the exact thing he had vowed he would never do again, turning his back and running away.


    With each passing second, the truth loomed larger: if he chose to walk away now, it wouldn''t just be a retreat; it would obliterate all the progress he had fought so hard to achieve.


    The strides he''d made in his journey toward change, the nights spent grappling with his demons and pushing past his self-destructive tendencies, would mean nothing.


    It would all dissolve into dust, a wasted effort lost to the void of his cowardice.


    A frown creased his brow, and a deep ache settled in his gut since he felt small, dwarfed by the monumental presence of Dracula, a being whose very existence radiated with an unyielding power that threatened to consume him.


    The thought of facing that towering monolith of strength filled him with dread and he didn''t want to fight.


    The mere idea of standing against Dracula, of confronting the darkness that had wreaked havoc in his life, felt insurmountable.


    Yet, deep down, he knew that walking away wasn''t an option and even if he could, Dracula wouldn''t let him escape; the vampire would hunt him down relentlessly, an insatiable predator driven by a desire to reclaim what Ricky had inadvertently taken from him.


    Inescapably, the reality set in: he would be forced to confront his fears, forced to face the monster that threatened to destroy everything he held dear or sink back into the coward that had haunted his being.


    In life, the journey of truly bettering oneself is rarely straightforward.


    It''s not a matter of simply climbing a mountain and standing triumphant at the peak, gazing up at the sky, basking in the glory of accomplishment.


    No, reaching that pinnacle often feels hollow, as if the very essence of achievement has evaporated into the ether, since as you reach the top, now you are confronted with the sky.


    Change is not a fluid process; it doesn''t come wrapped in neat packages or arrive like a gentle breeze.


    It''s a slow, painful march filled with jagged edges and unforeseen obstacles and each step forward is often countered by two steps back, a relentless struggle and flow that tests even the strongest of wills.


    Right now, Ricky found himself at an excruciating low, grappling with the raw wounds of defeat and despair.


    He felt as if he had reached a chasm, the abyss of his own making, staring into its depths with a heart heavy with doubt.


    Yet, in the darkest corners of despair, a flicker of light remained, an ember of determination waiting to be ignited.


    Every journey presents a pivotal moment, a crossroads where a person must confront their own choices.


    Ricky had finally stood at that intersection, the path before him shrouded in uncertainty.


    He had finally ushered into the journey of betterment, wanting to be the best man for those around him but now those crossroads loomed over him.


    Ricky could feel that gravitational pull of the past, whispering sweetly, coaxing him to turn back, to succumb to the familiar shadows that had haunted him for so long.


    But deep within, a stubborn spark refused to be extinguished, the very same spark that had brought him towards this road in the first place.


    He thought of Danielle, then of his lovers, and finally he thought of the father who always had his back.


    It urged him to look forward, to embrace the unknown and the possibility of transformation.


    Ricky could either choose to retreat into the comfort of complacency, letting fear dictate his fate, or he could summon the strength to completely confront the challenges ahead, daring to believe that a brighter future was still within reach.


    "Fine." Ricky let out a deep breath, feeling the weight of his decision settle upon him.


    However for all the despair he had faced, the scars of his journey were not just marks of failure; they were badges of survival.


    Anyone could look upon Ricky and merely laugh, mocking the so-called choices he made and the burdens he carried.


    They''d point fingers and scoff, confident that if given even a fraction of the opportunities he had, they would excel far beyond his grasp.


    And maybe that was true.


    Yet, for the filthy, idiotic, hypocritical alcoholic degenerate that most knew as Ricky Luciano, he had decided that he wasn''t going to look back at what he used to be, but what he wanted for himself.


    "How am I going to kill Dracula when I can''t even take down that loser Baron Blood?" Ricky asked, genuine frustration lacing his voice. To his surprise, Rachael smiled at his words, the corners of her mouth lifting in an unexpected way.


    "Ricky, you have all the tools you need, especially that core," she replied, her tone shifting to one of encouragement.


    "You possess such pure magic that even I can''t help but compliment it. On top of that, you''re a warlock as well." Rachacel continued, propping him up as Ricky slicked his hair back.


    "Even your sensitivity is far greater than mine; the only problem is that you''re an idiot." Rachael delivered this blow like a metaphorical sledgehammer, forcing him back down to reality.


    "You don''t seem to use your abilities to their fullest potential. From what I''ve heard, you merely scratch the surface, using them at face value and missing out on the skills that make you truly special." Rachael''s words landed one after another, stripping Ricky bare before her.


    "But if my grandfather was willing to instill his knowledge, then I''m going to figure it out and teach you how to harness that power so we can kill Dracula." Rachael resolved, extending her hand toward him.


    Ricky gazed down at Rachael''s outstretched hand, his mind swirling with all the aspirations he once held.


    After a moment of contemplation, he sighed, a mix of resignation and determination swirling within him, and took her hand.


    "Alright, what do I have to do?" Ricky asked, shaking it firmly and resolving himself to the relentless grind that was power.


    "Isolate yourself here and hone yourself, until you''re ready."


    Author''s Note: Wanted to make this Chapter to gear up for a timeskip since I''m not going to spend ten Chapters on Ricky''s progess, just like three really long ones.

 Chapter 92 - 90: Year One

    Chapter 92: Chapter 90: Year One


    1 year later,


    *TWACK*


    *TWACK*


    *TWACK*


    In the dim, musty air of the hidden room beneath the log cabin, Ricky hung from a thick metal bar, his arms stretched and trembling under the strain.


    Bandages wrapped his knuckles, covering the deep-seated calluses and countless micro-tears that criss crossed his hands.


    The raw skin throbbed with each heartbeat, the aches layered over one another from months of bruising practice.


    Sweat poured down his bare torso, trickling over every scar and contour, evidence of the relentless, punishing training he''d endured.


    Ricky''s body was now a canvas of old bruises mixed with fresh ones, a map of his efforts, desperation, and pain.


    *TWACK*


    A sudden, forceful smack echoed through the room as the wooden stick came down against his core, driving into his abdomen with a crushing, breath-stealing force.


    Ricky''s muscles seized under the impact, a sharp gasp escaping his clenched jaw as he tightened his grip on the bar, forcing himself to stay steady.


    *TWACK*


    *TWACK*


    *TWACK*


    But the blows kept coming, each one aimed to break through his resolve, testing every inch of his endurance.


    Each strike jolted through his core, leaving fiery trails of pain as his stomach clenched instinctively, a reflex that only fueled the aching in his exhausted muscles, but he didn''t give in; he couldn''t afford to.


    Here, in this dark, brutal corner of his life, he was hammering himself into something stronger or at least trying to, one gut-wrenching blow at a time.


    Ricky''s head hung low, his vision blurred by sweat dripping down his brow, pooling and stinging in his eyes.


    Every breath that tore its way out of him was raw and ragged, the sound of it echoing faintly in the dimly lit room.


    He focused only on that rhythm, grounding himself in the inhales and exhales, grasping for something steady in the unrelenting tide of pain.


    "Endure." Alexander''s calm voice came from the sidelines, his gaze steely, holding no sympathy, only expectation.


    Chores, hardened to the routine, lifted the wooden plank once more and drove it into Ricky''s abdomen, the wood connecting with a fleshy thud.


    *TWACK*


    Ricky''s muscles tensed and recoiled, absorbing the brutal impact as best they could. His whole body rocked with the force, and his grip on the bar tightened, fingernails digging into his palms beneath the bandages as he fought to stay upright.


    Ricky''s resolve to stay silent slipped away with each blow, but he swallowed down any sign of weakness, choking it back along with the bile that threatened to rise with each nauseating strike.


    *TWACK*


    "Endure that pain. Hold it." Alexander''s words seeped into Ricky''s consciousness, each syllable stretching out, pressing against the raw ache pulsing through his body.


    The dim light caught his gaze, green eyes unwavering and fierce, the intensity building even as his frame trembled.


    Chores''s arm wound back, a brutal calm in his movements as he swung with precision, the plank crashing into Ricky''s core, sending another shockwave of pain through his muscles.


    Ricky''s grip on the bar tightened, knuckles blanching under the strain, his body instinctively bracing even as it screamed against the abuse.


    *TWACK*


    Each strike crashed through Ricky''s frame, rippling up his spine, his breath stolen with each brutal impact.


    Alexander''s voice was like a hammer against his will, chiseling away at the layers of fear, doubt, and exhaustion.


    Every word drilled deeper, imprinting on him something far more lasting than pain.


    *TWACK*


    "Remember this pain, remember this helpless feeling of pain." Alexander''s voice was cold steel, slicing through the haze of agony.


    Ricky gritted his teeth, every nerve searing, yet his grip remained locked as he couldn''t let go, not now.


    *TWACK*


    "Now build on it."


    Another blow, sharp and unyielding, smacked against his abdomen, and Ricky gasped, the air knocked out of him.


    But he held steady, each blow forcing him to find strength he didn''t know he had.


    *TWACK*


    "Learn from this pain." Alexander''s words clawed into him while Ricky''s vision swam, yet he focused on each word, each strike, sinking into the agony, letting it sculpt his resolve.


    *TWACK*


    "Stack your foundations on this pain."


    Chores hesitated for a fraction of a second, but Alexander''s glare pushed him on and Ricky''s body shook, sweat mingling with blood, and the ache sank into his bones, becoming part of him.


    *TWACK*


    "Now harden it." The command drilled through Ricky''s mind, and he gritted his teeth so hard his jaw ached.


    This wasn''t pain; it was purpose, it was a call, one he had to answer.


    "HARDEN IT INTO YOUR RESOLVE!" Alexander''s voice roared, filling every inch of the dim, sweat-soaked room.


    Chores tightened his grip and swung once more, not holding back, as if to etch Alexander''s words into Ricky''s very core.


    *TWACK*


    "HARDEN YOURSELF SO THAT YOU WILL NEVER CRUMBLE AGAIN!"


    Each strike left Ricky trembling, yet his resolve only grew, the pain forging something cold and unwavering within him.


    *TWACK*


    "YOU HAVE TO WANT IT!"


    *TWACK*


    "YOU MUST BE WILLING TO DIE FOR IT!" Alexander''s words ignited a fire, searing away every doubt.


    *TWACK*


    "SO WHEN YOU ARE FACED WITH ONLY DEATH!"


    *TWACK*


    "SO THAT WHEN YOU SEE NO HOPE IN THE FACE OF THE ENEMY!"


    *TWACK*


    "THAT YOU GROW SO STRONG THAT YOU DEFY THE VERY ODDS SET AGAINST YOU!"


    The blows came faster, relentless, with each *TWACK* tearing through him like an unyielding storm, driving his spirit higher.


    Pain was no longer something to endure; it was the fuel igniting his resolve.


    He would break past this, he would become what they were shaping him to be, someone unshakable, someone who would not crumble.


    *TWACK*


    *TWACK*


    *TWACK*


    *TWACK*


    Each strike forged Ricky into something harder, something forged by fire and the relentless agony, building into an unstoppable force.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Ricky let out ragged breaths, his normally dark, unruly hair plastered against his forehead, soaked with sweat that dripped down his face and neck.


    His body shivered with each shallow inhale, struggling to steady itself under the weight of exhaustion and raw, searing pain.


    His muscles burned, trembling under the relentless strain, yet he stood resolute, refusing to falter.


    "Slick, let''s take a break¡ª" Chores almost insisted, his voice catching as he noticed the blood dripping from the bar.


    "Keep going." Ricky''s response was immediate, barely edging out past his ragged breaths.


    Chores opened his mouth, ready to argue, but then he saw it; that unflinching, iron gaze that had taken root in Ricky over the last year as his green eyes turned towards him.


    It wasn''t one he wore often, but when it appeared, it was more potent than any words he could''ve mustered.


    It was a look that silenced arguments and dismissed concern, a gaze that held the weight of every grueling day and unrelenting night he''d endured.


    There was something fierce and unbreakable in his green eyes, a burning that refused to back down or break.


    It was as if every beating, every bruise and scar, had only fed this fire, sharpening it to a deadly edge.


    *TWACK*


    *TWACK*


    *TWACK*


    Chores''s hands tightened around the stick as he swung it one last time, feeling the strain radiate through his own muscles with every strike.


    This only stopped when the man before him crumbled, and right now, Ricky''s knees finally buckled, dropping him as his body screamed for mercy.


    "Dammit." Ricky rasped, gasping as his body gave in to the punishing endurance as Chores let out a sigh, his shoulders slumping with a relief that mirrored Ricky''s exhaustion.


    "That is enough," Alexander''s voice cut through the dim room from the side, calm yet final.


    "Morning training has commenced, ready yourself for refinement with Rachael." Alexander''s words were followed by Ricky grabbing a nearby towel, putting it over his head as he leaned on the wall.


    "Great, I can''t wait for that sourpuss to nag me for the next two hours." Ricky sighed, closing his eyes as he felt his body slowly repair itself.


    Over the past year, Ricky''s grueling training regime with Alexander had been meticulously crafted to pair with his healing factor.


    Each session aimed to push him right to the edge of collapse, leveraging his body''s recovery to build strength at an extraordinary pace.


    It was a regime Alexander took great pride in, having refined it over the years into a harsh but effective method of transformation, revealing his mastery over the art of conditioning the human body.


    Under Alexander''s rigorous eye, Ricky''s strength and endurance grew by leaps and bounds.


    But physical growth wasn''t the only change as with each gain came subtle yet powerful shifts in Ricky''s focus and values.


    Each day after training, in between his rest periods, Ricky would pause to check on the status of his children''s status panels, quietly memorizing every detail in the screens hovering before him.


    This new responsibility challenged his old habits; he''d neglected relationships before, avoiding attachment to his children in his past life like a plague.


    Yet now, as he looked back, he felt the weight of regret and genuinely wished to be there for them, for the women who carried his blood as a desire rooted not in duty but in the person he was striving to become.


    As he observed his children''s development, their existence had fueled an unexpected shift within him in a real sense.


    Their lives had deepened his power, indirectly affecting his abilities, strengthening his resolve to change.


    [Children Sired]


    [Name: Danielle Luciano


    Mother: Dolly Henderson


    Grade: C


    Template: N/A


    Description: Dolly had kept her pregnancy a guarded secret, distancing herself in an effort to protect you from the weight she believed would derail your life. Though she handled the journey alone, fearing the consequences for both of you, the choice had never been easy. She gave birth in secrecy, grappling with the burdens of single motherhood and ultimately deciding that she couldn''t raise the child alone.


    When she looked into her newborn''s eyes, a fierce love surged within her, but so did the realization that her daughter deserved more than she felt capable of providing alone. With a heart heavy with sacrifice, she turned to Lucky, a man she trusted to offer her child the stable life she felt she couldn''t.


    Abilities:


    X-Gene Empathic Touch: An ability that allows the user to perceive and understand the emotions of others through physical contact. When the user touches another person, they instantly gain insight into that person''s current emotional state.


    Skills:N/A]


    [Ability gained: X-Gene Empathic Touch: An ability that allows the user to perceive and understand the emotions of others through physical contact. When the user touches another person, they instantly gain insight into that person''s current emotional state.]


    [Name: Sarah Jenkins]


    Mother: Irene Jenkins


    Grade: D


    Template: N/A


    Description: After that wild night of teetering the car, Irene found herself in the throes of motherhood, giving birth to a beautiful baby girl. The chaos of that evening lingered in her mind, but the details of your identity remained a blur, overshadowed by the tumultuous emotions of becoming a parent. Feeling the weight of responsibility and uncertainty, she made the difficult decision to move back in with her parents. In their familiar home, Irene sought the support and stability she felt she needed to raise her daughter.


    Abilities: N/A


    Skills: N/A]


    [No skill or ability gained: Received: 10,000 IP]


    [Variant Description: A Variant is a rare child born with abilities that surpass the power of their original template or exceed the intended grade of the mother. (Warning: Chances to receive variants are rare).]


    [Name: Gus Guerra Luciano (Variant)


    Mother: Rosa Guerra


    Template: Gus Fring


    Grade: B


    Template Description: Gus Fring is a fictional character from the television series Breaking Bad and its prequel Better Call Saul. Gus is a highly intelligent and calculating drug lord who runs a successful fast-food chain, Los Pollos Hermanos, as a front for his methamphetamine distribution network. Known for his meticulous nature, Gus maintains a calm and composed demeanor, often presenting himself as a respectable businessman. However, he is ruthless and will go to great lengths to eliminate threats to his empire, making him one of the most formidable villains in the series


    Description: Gus was born to Rosa, who initially kept the identity of his father a secret from everyone, including her brother, Juan. After some time, Rosa revealed the truth about Gus''s father, leading Juan to confront his feelings of betrayal. Despite his initial anger, Juan ultimately welcomed Gus into the family and acknowledged him as his nephew, accepting him as his own.


    Abilities:


    Skills:


    Master Strategist: Capable of devising complex plans and contingencies, Gus excels at manipulating situations to his advantage while staying several steps ahead of his opponents.


    Chameleon Persona: A skill in adopting different personas to blend into various environments, allowing him to gather information and maintain a low profile when necessary.


    Financial Acumen: Highly proficient in managing finances, Gus has a sharp mind for investments and resource allocation, ensuring that his operations remain profitable and sustainable.


    Exceptional Memory: With a keen ability to remember details about people, events, and plans, Gus can recall critical information that aids in his decision-making and strategic planning.


    Cold Logic: Exhibiting a ruthless, analytical approach to problem-solving, Gus can detach emotions from decisions, focusing solely on practicality and outcomes.


    Steeled Mind: Unnerved in any situation, able to keep a calm state of mind even in the face of absolute death.]


    *Ding*


    [Skill gained: Steeled Mind: Unnerved in any situation, able to keep a calm state of mind even in the face of absolute death.]


    [Name: Richie Carter


    Mother: Everlean Carter


    Grade: C


    Template: N/A


    Description: After discovering she was pregnant, Everlean made the difficult decision to move back to Atlanta to be closer to her family. Initially, the transition was challenging, filled with uncertainty and a mix of emotions. However, she gradually carved out a joyful life for herself and her son, Richie. Surrounded by the support of her loved ones, Everlean embraced motherhood and focused on creating a nurturing environment for Richie, balancing her aspirations with the warmth and love of family life.


    Abilities: N/A


    Skills: N/A]


    [No skill or ability gained: Received: 10,000 IP]


    [Name: Serena Davis


    Mother: Mayola Davis


    Grade: C+


    Template: N/A


    Description: Mayola has no idea that you''re the father of her daughter, Serena. Just three weeks after your encounter, she met another man and, believing him to be the child''s father, quickly settled into a new relationship. Unbeknownst to her, the truth about Serena''s parentage remains hidden in the shadows of their lives.


    Abilities:N/A


    Skills: N/A]


    [No skill or ability gained: Received: 10,000 IP]


    [Name: Bob Harris (Variant)


    Mother: Azilee Harris


    Grade: B+


    Template: Bob Makihara


    Template Outline: Bob Makihara template is a character from the manga and anime series Tenjou Tenge. He is a person who will grow up inherently thirsting for a fight and is better off with a father figure rather than growing up alone.


    Description: Bob is a variant who inherited your sturdy body and green eyes but takes after his mother in other regards. Azilee decided to raise Bob with love and care rather than give him to an orphanage, and she is currently struggling to provide him with a good life amidst various challenges. Despite the hardships, their bond grows stronger every day, as Bob''s vibrant spirit brings joy and purpose to Azilee''s life.


    Abilities:


    Rhythm: Bob''s rhythm plays a major role as his fighting skills develop. He starts to feel vibrations through the ground and can predict an opponent''s movement based on those vibrations. As he feels the "beat" in the ground, his body will react naturally and move him out of harm''s way and such.


    Skills:


    Inherent Build: Bob will grow up with an inherent build for fighting, able to easily grow into a muscular form with the proper nutrition.


    Inherent Technique: Allows Bob to understand and comprehend fighting techniques to the point where he could easily learn anything he puts his mind too in the realm of fighting.]


    [Ability gained: Rhythm: The user rhythm plays a major role as his fighting skills develop. The user starts to feel vibrations through the ground and can predict an opponent''s movement based on those vibrations. As the user feels the "beat" in the ground, his body will react naturally and move him out of harm''s way and such.


    [Name: Jennett Lou]


    Mother: Mary Lou


    Grade:


    Template: N/A


    Description: The events that transpired in the bathroom stall nine months prior left Mary Lou with a baby girl, whom she named Jennett. Overwhelmed by the burden of motherhood and the challenges that lay ahead, Mary Lou made the heart-wrenching decision to give Jennett up for adoption. She placed her daughter in an orphanage, believing it was the best option for both of them. Fortunately, Jennett was quickly adopted by a loving couple who had always dreamed of having children but never had the chance to start a family of their own. They welcomed her with open arms, showering her with affection and creating a nurturing environment where she could thrive.


    Abilities: N/A


    Skills: N/A]


    [No skill or ability gained: Received: 10,000 IP]


    [Name: Johnny Cage]


    Mother: Katharine Hepburn


    Grade: A


    Template Description: Johnny Cage is a fictional character from the Mortal Kombat video game series. He is a famous Hollywood action movie star and a skilled martial artist. Initially portrayed as a flashy and egotistical character focused on fame, he evolves into a dedicated fighter committed to protecting Earthrealm. Johnny is known for his quick wit, charismatic personality, and impressive combat skills, making him a fan-favorite character in the franchise.


    Template: Johnny Cage


    Description: Born on the set of one of Katharine''s current movies, Johnny path is already set before him as his mother gave him an actor''s name. Currently, Katharine knows you to be the father but is completely intent on raising Johnny for actor stardom on her own.


    Abilities: (X-Gene) Shadow Kick: A signature move that allows him to teleport briefly and deliver a powerful kick to his opponents.


    (X-Gene) Energy Projection: Can unleash energy blasts, giving him an edge in combat by staggering or damaging foes from a distance.


    (X-Gene) X-Ray Moves: Capable of performing devastating moves that reveal his ability to break bones and incapacitate enemies during fights.


    Skills: Martial Arts Mastery Proficiency: Johnny has the talent to train in multiple martial arts styles, including Kenpo and Muay Thai, making him a future versatile fighter if he so chooses to.]


    [Ability Gained: (X-Gene) Energy Projection: Can unleash energy blasts, giving the user an edge in combat by staggering or damaging foes from a distance.]


    *DING*


    [(X-Gene) Energy Projection has successfully been integrated into the user''s X-Gene.]


    [Mental Energy Projection: The ability to unleash concentrated mental energy blasts, allowing the user to stagger or damage foes from a distance. This power enhances combat effectiveness by enabling the user to disrupt an opponent''s focus or physical balance, making it difficult for them to retaliate. The intensity and precision of the energy projection can be honed with practice, granting the user greater control over their attacks and the potential to manipulate the energy for various tactical purposes.]


    [Name: Augustine du Luciano


    Mother: Carla Bianchi


    Grade: B


    Template: Augustine du Lac


    Template: You have given birth to a character within the timeline but more specifically, a variant of the black knight from another world. He was a member of the Black Knight lineage, which has a rich history tied to Arthurian legend. Augustine is a skilled warrior who wields the Ebony Blade, a powerful sword that grants him enhanced abilities and magical properties. He often grapples with the dark legacy of the blade, which has a corrupting influence.


    Description: With your note, Carla is treated like a saintess, while Augustine is seen as your backup plan, cherished carefully by the Vatican. Your interaction was brief, but Carla prays every day in gratitude for the better life you''ve provided her, one that she could never have imagined living.


    Abilities:


    Resolute Will: Able to focus his willpower towards a goal and unwaveringly stick to it with the strength of ironclad determination.


    Skills: N/A]


    [Ability Gained: Resolute Will: Able to focus his willpower towards a goal and unwaveringly stick to it with the strength of ironclad determination.]


    [Name: Henry Luciano]


    Mother: Jennifer Collins


    Grade: B


    Template: Henry Henderson


    Template Description: Henderson is fair but firm, and holds his class to the highest standards. He doesn''t care if his students come from the richest families in the world, and doesn''t give them special treatment. He expects only the best, and will teach them to become the elegant students that Eden Academy is known for.


    Description: Unlike others who might keep their circumstances hidden, Jennifer boldly approached Lucky to demand child support for her son, Henry. Despite her determination to raise him into a good man, she was resolute in her refusal to sell her child, believing that a loving and supportive upbringing was paramount.Lucky, for his part, reluctantly relented to Jennifer''s demands but remained frustrated with his son''s reckless behavior.


    Abilities: N/A


    Skills:


    Masterful Teaching: The innate ability to teach and nurture talent to its utmost potential, it is the epitome of teaching potential.]


    [Skill gained: Masterful Teaching: The innate ability to teach and nurture talent to its utmost potential, it is the epitome of teaching potential.]


    [Name: Logon Roy


    Mother: Ruth Steffield


    Grade: B+


    Template: Logon Roy


    Template Description: Logan Roy


    Logan Roy is a central character in the television series Succession. He is the formidable and ruthless patriarch of the Roy family, which owns and controls one of the world''s largest media conglomerates, Waystar Royco. Logan is a self-made billionaire known for his cutthroat business tactics and relentless pursuit of power and control. He is cunning, manipulative, and unyielding in his ambitions, often pitting his own children against each other in a ruthless game of succession. Despite his commanding presence and formidable reputation, Logan''s personal life and vulnerabilities are also explored throughout the series, revealing a complex and morally ambiguous character.


    Description: Following the tumultuous situation with Ruth, she was sent away to a secluded mansion in Iowa to raise her son, Logan, effectively exiling her from the family. Her relatives, unaware of the father''s identity, were determined to keep the family''s reputation intact, refusing to allow a "bastard" to carry their name. As a result, Logan was given the surname Roy, a stark reminder of his mother''s estrangement.


    Innate Abilities:


    Business Acumen: Logan possesses an innate understanding of markets, media, and corporate strategy, allowing him to make shrewd business decisions and navigate complex financial landscapes.


    Charisma and Influence: He exudes a powerful charisma that enables him to sway others to his way of thinking and manipulate situations to his advantage.


    Strategic Thinking: Logan has a natural gift for strategic planning and long-term thinking, enabling him to anticipate competitors'' moves and position Waystar Royco for success.


    Negotiation Skills: His innate ability to negotiate and broker deals ensures that he secures favorable terms and advantageous partnerships for his company.


    Crisis Management: Logan thrives under pressure and has an instinctive ability to handle crises, making tough decisions swiftly and decisively to protect his interests.


    Innate Skills:


    Leadership: He possesses strong leadership skills, commanding respect and loyalty from his employees and family members alike.


    Media Manipulation: Logan is adept at manipulating media narratives and public perception to benefit Waystar Royco and shield it from negative publicity.


    Financial Analysis: He has a deep understanding of financial analysis and risk assessment, allowing him to evaluate investments and opportunities with precision.


    Political Savvy: Logan navigates the complex intersection of business and politics with finesse, leveraging relationships and political influence to advance his agenda.


    Adaptability: Despite his rigid demeanor, Logan is adaptable and can pivot his strategies in response to changing circumstances and market conditions.


    [Ability gained: Business Acumen: Allows the user to possess an innate understanding of markets, media, and corporate strategy, allowing him to make shrewd business decisions and navigate complex financial landscapes.]


    [Name: Moxie Mannheim Luciano


    Mother: Alina Mannheim


    Grade: B


    Template: Moxie Mannheim


    Template Description: Moxie Mannheim is a notorious and ruthless figure in the DC Universe, known as the founder of the infamous criminal organization Intergang. A master strategist and unrelenting leader, Moxie established Intergang as a dominant force in the criminal underworld. His reign was marked by brutal tactics and an iron-fisted approach to maintaining control and expanding his empire. Moxie''s influence and power extended beyond conventional crime, often involving advanced technology and weaponry supplied by Apokolips. His legacy as the original mastermind behind Intergang continues to cast a long shadow over the criminal activities in Metropolis and beyond.


    Description: Alina gave birth to your son in secret, choosing to keep the news under wraps until you could return and hear it from her directly. With no need for further financial support from Lucky, she is determined to wait for the right moment to share this significant news. Alina holds onto the hope that you will come back to her, envisioning a future where the three of you can be a family. In the meantime, she lovingly tells Moxie stories about the incredible man his father is, filling his crib with dreams and aspirations, nurturing the bond between father and son even in your absence. Her heart swells with longing, counting the days until she can reunite with you and introduce you to the child you''ve both created together.


    Abilities: N/A


    Skills:


    Intimidation: Allows the user to command or control respect through the use of fear. This ability proves particularly useful when combined with the skill of Interrogation.


    Leadership: The ability of some characters to delegate authority and to command the respect and obedience of others.]


    [Skill gained: Leadership: The ability of some characters to delegate authority and to command the respect and obedience of others.]


    [Name: Carmine Falcone Luciano


    Mother: Maria Profaci


    Grade: A+


    Template: Carmine Falcone


    Template Description: Carmine Falcone was one of the great crime lords of Gotham City, back when it was run by the mafia. Nicknamed The Roman for his unflinching ruthlessness and expansionism, he was one of the earliest enemies of Batman.


    Description: After giving birth to Carmine, Profaci went to great lengths to cover up the truth, locking Maria away from the outside world to ensure her safety upon realizing who the father is. While the city buzzes with life beyond her confinement, Maria remains in a state of quiet anticipation, holding onto the promise of your bound love. She spends her days dreaming of your return to New York, cherishing the hope that soon you will be reunited and that she can reveal the truth about their child. In the solitude of her isolation, Maria''s heart beats with unwavering faith, believing that your love will bridge the distance and bring her back into your embrace.


    Abilities:


    Indomitable Will: the ability of some characters to control their impulses and emotions in order to make their choice clear. Characters with this skill have the internal strength to overcome fear and resist mind control.


    Skills:


    Intimidation: Allows the user to command or control respect through the use of fear. This ability proves particularly useful when combined with the skill of Interrogation.


    Leadership: The ability of some characters to delegate authority and to command the respect and obedience of others


    Deception: the ability of some characters to convince others to believe information that is not true. Characters that can deceive often use tools like distraction, concealment, and propaganda. In many cases it is difficult to distinguish deception from providing unintentionally wrong information.


    Tactical Analysis: the ability to strategize and develop complex plans of actions. This skill often works in tandem with Leadership.


    [Ability gained: Indomitable Will: the ability of some characters to control their impulses and emotions in order to make their choice clear. Characters with this skill have the internal strength to overcome fear and resist mind control.]


    *Ding*


    [Indomitable Will has combined with Steeled Mind and Resolute Will to form:


    Indomitable Resolve: This combined ability grants the individual unparalleled control over their impulses and emotions, allowing them to make clear, decisive choices even in the direst of circumstances. They possess an ironclad determination and can maintain a calm state of mind, unaffected by fear or imminent danger. This resilience enables them to focus their willpower towards their goals and resist external influences, making them formidable and unwavering in their resolve.]


    [Name: Zatanna Luciano


    Mother: Agatha Harkness


    Grade: S+


    Template: Zatanna Zatara


    Template Description: Zatanna Zatara is a powerful magician and superhero in the DC Universe. Known for her signature backwards-spoken spells, Zatanna is a skilled sorceress with a vast repertoire of magical abilities. Zatanna performs as a stage magician but also fights crime, often aiding the Justice League with her formidable mystical powers. She is characterized by her trademark magician''s attire, including a top hat and fishnet stockings, and her unwavering dedication to protecting the world from supernatural threats.


    Description: Due to both your inherent magic and Agatha''s natural mystical prowess, your union has birthed a formidable figure destined to send ripples throughout the magical world. Agatha didn''t intend to keep your daughter''s birth a secret, but the circumstances surrounding your current isolation due to Dracula''s looming threat made it necessary. Aware of your struggles, she holds onto the belief that you will eventually seek her out when the chaos subsides. In the meantime, Agatha nurtures their child, knowing that she possesses extraordinary potential.


    Abilities:


    Homo Magi Magic: Zatanna is a Homo Magi, a human born with the affinity to manipulate magic in its purest form. Her unique genetic structure allows her to use the magic she was born with, as well as learned magic being the first of her kind.


    (Innate) Witchcraft Energy: The ability to use the powers and energies related to witchcraft.


    (Innate) Soul Manipulation: the supernatural power to interact with and control the intangible essence of a person''s soul. Users of this ability can perform actions such as extracting, transferring, enhancing, or damaging souls, often possessing a profound understanding of the spiritual aspects that define an individual''s identity.


    (Innate) Magical Awareness: The user is able to sense magic and to be aware of anything that affects her and her surroundings.


    (Innate) Mystic Resistance: The user has an innate resistance against the mystic arts due to their witchcraft magical prowess.


    (Innate) Witch Sight: The user can see things beyond what normal humans can such as the aimless ones.


    (Innate) Voice Manipulation: The user now has the ability to manipulate voices to sound like others.


    Skills:


    Prestidigitation: Zatanna is a greatly skilled magician and an expert illusionist, therefore performing extraordinary (real)tricks and incredible illusions on stage is super simple to her.


    Hypnosis: Zatanna can hypnotize anyone and command them to do anything she pleases.


    Meditation: Through meditation, Zatanna can astral project.


    Astral Projection: Zatanna''s consciousness can leave her physical body and travel to other planes of existence.


    Hand-to-Hand Combat (Advanced): Zatanna has received extensive training from her time with the Justice League of America and from her father who always told her to rely on her wits as well as her fists should her magic fail.


    Occultism: As a chronicler of magic she possesses an extensive understanding of occult lore due to her mystic background.


    Multilingualism: Able to speak English and many other languages, including Spanish, along with her signature "Backwards Speech".


    [Ability Gained: (Innate) Homo Magi Magic: Morphs the user into a Homo Magi, a human born with the affinity to manipulate magic in its purest form. The user''s body morphs into a unique genetic structure allowing you to use the magic you were born with, as well as learned magic being the second of your kind.]


    Over the first year, all of Ricky''s bastards were properly registered, each slowly coming into focus within his awareness. As he took the time to read their descriptions and understand who they were, he realized that he had neglected an important detail: he had also gained skills from them. This oversight stung, as the skills were innate, embedded deep within his very being.


    The birth of his daughter, Zatanna, was a significant moment; the experience left him immobile for an entire week.


    Although he decided to put thoughts of his offspring on the back burner for the time being, he knew that eventually, he would need to revisit this aspect of his life.


    Ricky understood that gathering his bastards and integrating them into the Luciano family structure was essential for their growth and his own.


    "Slick, Rachael''s waiting," Barko called out as he descended the stairs, interrupting Ricky''s moment of recovery.


    Ricky had just regained his breath, closing his status screen with a flick of his wrist while rubbing the back of his neck to ease the tension.


    "I''m coming, I''m coming," Ricky replied, waving Barko off dismissively.


    Without waiting for another word, Barko quickly bolted back up the stairs, eager to return to his reading.


    Although Ricky had been honing himself to an edge this past year with his physical prowess and swordsmanship, at the core of it stood one single thing: magic.


    With Rachael''s insistence, a year had passed in which Ricky dedicated himself solely to mastering magic.


    Percival and Alexander were somewhat forced to take a backseat as Rachael halted all his other training, believing that this focused approach was necessary for him to properly integrate magic into his fighting style.


    Instead of being introduced to new techniques, Ricky spent his time refining the basics he had previously learned, taking Rachael''s advice to heart.


    This commitment to refining his skills had yielded significant benefits as Ricky''s proficiency spanned across various combat forms, from swordsmanship to bowmanship, all enhanced by the undercurrent of magic he was now intimately familiar with.


    His singular focus on magic had elevated his elemental control to Epic levels, allowing him to manipulate the elements with unprecedented precision and strength.


    Moreover, this deep immersion in the arcane arts inadvertently improved his intelligence.


    The mental strain of studying, despite his initial resistance, began to catch up with his body.


    Ricky was forced to confront concepts that challenged his understanding, leading to a gradual but undeniable expansion of his mind.


    Ricky had always hated the act of studying, but now, it seemed to be an essential part of his transformation.


    With each new lesson and every drop of magical energy he harnessed, he was forcibly improving himself in ways he never anticipated, turning what was once a burden into a path of empowerment.


    [Status]


    Name: Ricky Luciano


    Titles: Deadbeat, Royal Thug, Prodigal Son, Witch''s Gigolo


    Age: 16


    Born: October, 27, 1918


    Race: Human


    Strength: 34¡ú43 (Lower realm of Superhuman)


    Stamina: 30¡ú41 (Lower realm of Superhuman.)


    Vitality: 38¡ú46 (Lower realm of Superhuman.)


    Agility: 28¡ú37(Lower realm of Superhuman)


    Dexterity: 32¡ú40(Lower realm of Superhuman)


    Intelligence: 6¡ú19 (You''ve grown into the average aptitude of an adult)


    Mana: 55¡ú65 (Middle realm of Superhuman.)


    Charm: 31¡ú38 (Your charm has almost graced superhuman realms)


    Appearance: 32¡ú38 (On the verge of attaining a realm of attractiveness only seen in written media.)


    Instead of the coasting type of training he experienced with Abraham, Rachael relentlessly pushed Ricky''s body to its absolute limits, molding it into a vessel capable of harnessing his burgeoning abilities.


    She understood that Ricky''s powers far surpassed his physical form, which often resulted in an intense backlash.


    It was this disparity that fueled her commitment to his training in killing Dracula, she aimed to bridge the gap between his potential and his actual capacity.


    However, there was a significant obstacle in Ricky''s path: his stubbornness when it came to expanding his magical repertoire.


    While he showed immense talent, he was incredibly resistant to memorizing new spells beyond his current favorites; Fireball, Aqua Ring, Wind Slash, and Earth Wall.


    Rachael recognized that the breadth of magic was essential for his growth and insisted he learn new spells, but Ricky dug in his heels.


    He found the process of studying and comprehending new spells daunting, preferring to rely on the familiar spells he had mastered.


    Ricky already had too much on his plate with his X-Gene and the Ebony Blade, leading him to view magic primarily as a means to complement his fighting style rather than reshaping his entire approach around it. The intricacies of mastering unfamiliar magics felt like an insurmountable challenge to him, one that he wasn''t ready to face.


    Rachael, however, remained undeterred as she understood that true mastery in magic required more than just a handful of favored spells; it necessitated adaptability and a willingness to explore the unknown.


    Despite her efforts to encourage Ricky to expand his magical arsenal, he stubbornly clung to his comfort zone, focusing on the spells he knew rather than venturing into uncharted territory that required five or more years of mastery for such complex spells.


    Her determination to break through his resistance only intensified as she witnessed his potential.


    But for now, Ricky was content with his familiar incantations, leaving Rachael to strategize how best to nudge him toward the growth he so desperately needed.


    Using a spell by memory wasn''t an easy feat; it demanded immense calculations, precision, and the ability to seamlessly combine various elements.


    Each incantation involved intricate mental gymnastics, requiring the caster to visualize the spell''s effects, gauge the energy needed, and anticipate the nuances of its execution.


    Ricky had learned this the hard way, realizing that mere memorization wasn''t sufficient. The magic demanded a deep understanding of the underlying principles and the interconnections between different spells.


    For Example:


    Spell Name: Nexus Cyclone


    Description: The Nexus Cyclone spell combines arcane energies with complex mathematical algorithms to create a swirling vortex of elemental power, guided by precise calculations of geometric patterns, fractals, and numerical sequences. This spell exemplifies the fusion of magic and mathematics, where the fabric of reality bends to the will of the caster through a symphony of numbers.


    Execution:


    Mathematical Encoding:


    The mage begins by mentally encoding the desired parameters of the cyclone. They formulate an equation represented by:Cyclone Radius (R) = ¡Ì(x2 + y2 + z2) (where x, y, z are the elemental intensities)Intensity (I) = e^¦Á + sin(¦Â) (for intensity)Elemental Composition (E) = ¦² (a? / b?) (for elemental composition)Geometric Invocation:


    Using the Arcane Focus, the mage traces geometric patterns in the air. The foundational structure of the cyclone is created by applying trigonometric functions and fractal geometry:Cyclone Structure = ¦² (sin(2¦Ði/N), cos(2¦Ði/N)) (for N vertices)Fibonacci sequence: F(n) = F(n-1) + F(n-2), with F(0) = 0 and F(1) = 1Numerical Convergence:


    Channeling arcane energies through the geometric patterns, the mage calculates the convergence points (C):C = (R2 / I) * E (where each element E? has a unique ¦Ë?)Prime numbers condition: If p is prime, then C ¡Ô 0 (mod p)Activation:


    With a focused mind and steady hand, the mage recites the incantation:Elemental Output = ¦° E? * (R * ¡ÌC)^(Time)


    This directs the integrated energies to manifest the Numerical Nexus Cyclone.


    Effects:


    Elemental Fury:


    The cyclone manifests with elemental properties influenced by the mage''s calculations, such as fire, ice, wind, or lightning.


    Mathematical Stability:


    The vortex maintains stability due to mathematical precision. The stability can be calculated using:


    Stability (S) = (1 / R) * ¦² (x? - x?)2


    That''s the thing that pisses Rachael off about Ricky the most: his reluctance to memorize and learn the complicated formulas that magic demands.


    Each spell requires immense dedication and time, a commitment Ricky is unwilling to make.


    Instead, he clings to the four spells he learned from Abraham, convinced that mastering these basics is sufficient.


    Rachael, however, fears that this limited approach won''t be enough for the challenges they face.


    The reason being Dracula.


    Over the past year, the tension surrounding Dracula''s growing obsession with finding him, and it became increasingly clear that Ricky and Rachael weren''t the only ones preparing for the impending conflict.


    With Ricky''s transformation into a Homo Magi, his natural control over magic quickly surpassed Rachael''s, a development that both impressed and frustrated her.


    Rachael recognized that Ricky''s innate abilities allowed him to grasp and manipulate magic in ways she had never anticipated.


    Despite this, her concerns mounted. She understood that relying solely on his current spells wouldn''t be enough to confront the looming threat of Dracula, who was amassing his forces at an alarming rate.


    Their constant arguments stemmed from Rachael''s desperation to guide Ricky into expanding his magical repertoire.


    She wanted him to learn additional spells that would complement his fighting style, but Ricky was resolute in his belief that he didn''t have the time or patience to memorize complex formulas and incantations.


    He preferred to develop his own methods, even if it meant risking a less versatile approach in the face of growing danger.


    "I''m not doing it." Ricky shook his head defiantly, causing Rachael to grab her hair in frustration as she gestured emphatically at the various scrolls strewn across the table.


    "Dammit, Ricky, we''ve been over this! You need to learn more magic, and those four basic spells won''t be enough after we''ve reached this point. My teachings require you to take the next step and-"


    "Wait, so you''re saying that we''ve gotten to the point where only more advanced magic training can further me?" Ricky interrupted, his tone sharp as he raised an eyebrow at her.


    Over this year, Rachael had grown accustomed to Ricky''s whimsical antics, especially after he discovered they were stranded in an isolated region of Russia, far from any town or civilization.


    The realization that they were cut off from the world frustrated him to no end that resulted in his efforts pouring into his training.


    With no access to alcohol or any semblance of a social life, Ricky resorted to desperately hitting on Rachael, trying to break the tension that surrounded them.


    However, Rachael remained steadfast in keeping him at arm''s length, often ignoring his advances entirely.


    It wasn''t that she was immune to his charm; it was more about maintaining boundaries.


    She understood the chaos he brought with him and was determined not to get swept away by it.


    Despite her efforts to keep her distance, Ricky''s persistence was hard to ignore.


    He started engaging her in conversation almost every single day, sharing stories and jokes in an attempt to lighten the mood.


    As a result, Rachael began to see glimpses of the man behind the bravado but forced any cursitoy into the aching pit of her stomach.


    "I can finally use this if I''ve reached this point." Ricky declared, pulling out his necklace with a determined glint in his eye.


    Ricky crushed it in his hand, releasing a burst of purple smoke that coiled and twisted into a shimmering ring above him.


    Rachael''s eyes widened in disbelief as the magical energy crackled around them.


    Ricky had been holding off on calling upon Agatha for quite some time as he wanted to ensure he was at a certain level in his training before involving her, knowing the risks that came with summoning someone of her power.


    The last thing he wanted was to put Agatha and Zatanna in Dracula''s line of sight which is why he had been so careful even after reading the description that said she was waiting for his call.


    "What are you doing-"


    "And here I thought you''d forgotten about me~" Agatha stepped through the smoke-infested portal, her presence illuminating the dim atmosphere.


    Ricky felt a whirlwind of emotions swirling inside him, a mix of anticipation and longing that had built up over the months of training but most of all, he was pent up to the extreme.


    Ricky walked over to her, a signature sleazy smile spreading across his face, and wrapped his hands around her waist, pulling her close.


    "There''s no way I''d ever forget you, Agatha." Ricky leaned in, his voice dripping with sincerity as their lips met. Agatha melted into the kiss, resting her arms on his sturdy shoulders, feeling the warmth radiating from him.


    Gripping her ass firmly, Agatha pulled back from the kiss, a playful chuckle escaping her lips as Ricky began to tenderly kiss her neck.


    "Down boy, down~" she laughed, her words mingling with the teasing tickle of his kisses, each caress igniting a spark of mischief between them.


    But as their playful banter filled the air, Agatha''s laughter faltered as a sudden awareness washed over her, and she glanced around, realizing they had company.


    The tension shifted as she caught sight of Rachael, standing a few paces away, her expression a mix of disbelief and irritation.


    "Oh, hello?" Agatha said playfully, setting her head on Ricky''s shoulder as if the seriousness of the moment had evaporated.


    She waved at Rachael with exaggerated enthusiasm, a mischievous grin spreading across her face.


    Rachael''s stern expression softened for just a moment, her irritation flickering like a candle in the wind.


    "Who is your little girlfriend Ricky-"


    "I''m not his girlfriend but Rachael Van Helsing." Rachael revealed, her voice steady despite the surprise etched across Agatha''s face as her eyes widened, a mix of shock and curiosity bubbling to the surface.


    "Ricky, darling, is this true?" Agatha glanced down at him, her expression shifting to one of disbelief, entirely uncaring of Ricky''s hands exploring her body.


    "Uh huh." Ricky agreed, his focus unwavering as he leaned into Agatha, clearly more interested in her than in the dull woman who had always kept him at arm''s length.


    "Darling, later, I promise~" Agatha lustfully whispered in Ricky''s ear, her breath sending a shiver down his spine.


    He immediately felt a rush of heat, but he sighed, trying to focus on the conversation at hand.


    "Then I assume you know me, little Rachael?" Agatha inquired, planting a teasing kiss on Ricky''s cheek before sauntering over to Rachael.


    "Agatha Harkness, one of the most powerful magic users and witches in the magic world." Rachael replied, squinting as she assessed the woman in front of her.


    Her gaze shifted to the visibly frustrated Ricky, who was caught in a tangled web of his pent up lust while letting this interaction play out before he went balls first into Agatha.


    "Why are you here, Agatha?" Rachael''s tone became wary as she nodded, squinting her eyes as Agatha looked back at Ricky.


    "Yes, darling, why am I here?" Agatha cooed, a playful glint in her eye as she glanced at Ricky, who merely shrugged, still somewhat dazed by Agatha''s presence.


    "I''m here to take you up on your offer to learn witchcraft," Ricky revealed, shocking both women.


    ''Among other things.''


    Ricky honestly wanted a break from Rachael''s relentless training, and there was no better escape than diving headfirst into the seductive allure of Agatha.


    The thought of spending time in her, beyond the intoxicating chemistry they shared, felt like a much-needed reprieve from the rigid structure of his current training regimen.


    But it was more than just that; he was now a warlock, a title he wore with a mix of pride and defiance after knocking Agatha up.


    However, deep down, Ricky wanted to meet his child and realized that there was no better time than now.


    "Oh no, no, no, no!" Alexander exclaimed as he hurried over, accompanied by a floating Percival.


    "Young Ricky, you''ve reached a point where simply refining your skills won''t suffice; you need further instruction for your swordsmanship." Percival stated, gesturing with a firm nod alongside Alexander.


    "We appreciate Mrs. Van Helsing''s training methods, but continuing to prolong your education will only hinder your progress in the future." Alexander added, demonstrating his underlying respect for Rachael.


    "Ugh-"


    "I would also like to come if you wouldn''t mind, Slick." Chores said, peeking his head out from the cabin.


    Chores slipped his reading glasses into his pocket and stepped outside, clutching a well-worn book from Abraham''s library.


    Chores was a diligent scholar, having not only read every book left by Daedalus but having studied them meticulously, backwards and forwards, at least fifteen times each.


    His dedication to knowledge was unwavering, and it drove him to seek a meaningful role in Ricky''s future.


    Chores was determined to bolster his understanding of the world around him to a degree he had never imagined possible.


    Though he often appeared brooding and contemplative, Chores possessed a unique potential rooted in his intellectual prowess.


    His comprehension of complex ideas started to ignite a passion for creation within him.


    Initially, he focused on crafting simple objects around the cabin, perhaps a chair or a makeshift table.


    However, as the year progressed, he began to challenge himself, increasing the complexity of his projects and diving into more intricate designs.


    It was during this phase that Ricky truly began to recognize Chores''s value and one day, on a whim, he decided to test the limits of Chores''s newfound skills.


    He used his blueprint scanner on a minifridge, expecting the usual results.


    To his astonishment, Chores successfully created the appliance by following the blueprint meticulously.


    The minifridge stood as a testament to his growing talent, its sleek design and functionality demonstrating that his hard work and intellectual curiosity had transformed him into a budding inventor.


    Ricky couldn''t help but feel shocked at the creation and commended Chores for his prowess in being able to bring forth this appliance into this age.


    "I do as well," Barko declared, descending gracefully from the roof, his impact softened as he landed as the collar around his neck glimmered with a vibrant blue light.


    Despite Abraham''s dismissive words about the collar being useless, Barko had defied expectations and was beginning to learn how to manipulate the flow of magic.


    He had not only managed to comprehend the intricacies of magic but had also begun to tap into it himself, an accomplishment that seemed impossible for someone without magic.


    Though still a beginner, he had embraced the challenge wholeheartedly, using the enchanted collar that Ricky had provided along with vials of magic provided from him.


    Barko''s dedication to discovering his own path in the magical realm was unwavering.


    He had spent countless hours practicing spells, studying the foundational elements of magic, and honing his focus.


    Each day, he pushed himself to understand the nuances of magic that once seemed out of reach.


    The collar, imbued with Ricky''s magic, served as a catalyst, allowing him to experiment with different spells.


    *Sigh*


    "Does anyone else want to go-"


    "I will," Rachael declared, her words sending ripples of surprise through the group as Agatha arched an eyebrow, intrigued by Rachael''s unexpected decision.


    "Really?" Ricky asked, his voice tinged with skepticism as he couldn''t shake the memory of Rachael''s disdain for him and felt compelled to seek clarification.


    "It would be beneficial for me to learn under the coven, if you would allow it?" Rachael gestured toward Agatha, her expression earnest yet cautious while Agatha rubbed her chin thoughtfully, a playful smile spreading across her face.


    "Of course, all of Ricky''s little friends are welcomed in my coven." Agatha turned back to face them, her hips swaying enticingly as she beckoned them forward.


    Without hesitation, he allowed himself to be drawn into the swirling portal, a vibrant mix of colors and energies enveloping them.


    In the mountains of Colorado, USA


    "Welcome to New Salem."


    In the remote hills of Colorado, concealed from the prying eyes of ordinary folk, lies the unknown town of New Salem.


    Nestled amidst ancient oaks and cobblestone streets, this place is enshrouded in the mysticism and arcane secrets that surrounded the infamous lasting effects of the witch trials so long ago.


    As you approach, the air thickens with a palpable aura of magic, as if the very essence of sorcery permeates the atmosphere.


    Cobblestone pathways wind between centuries-old cottages adorned with mystical runes and charms.


    The bustling villagers of New Salem are not ordinary folk; they are descendants of those who fled Salem, Massachusetts, during the infamous witch trials of centuries past.


    Persecuted for their knowledge of the occult and mystical abilities, they sought refuge in these secluded hills, where they established a community dedicated to safeguarding their ancient traditions.


    Rituals honoring their ancestors and the mystical energies that sustain them are woven into the fabric of daily life, fostering a deep reverence for the arcane arts and supernatural forces that define their culture.


    Sacred groves and ley lines crisscross the surrounding countryside, serving as conduits of potent magical energies.


    "T-This is New Salem?" Rachael whispered out in wonder, gazing around the scenic sights along with the others.


    "Such complicated structures, amazing." Chores couldn''t help but marvel at not only the artistry, but the advanced buildings that seemed above any modern technology.


    "Look at the amazing magic!" Barko barked out, wagging his tail at the various spells used in common place while noticing everyone held a grimoire.


    "I''ve seen better." Alexander crossed his furry arms, clearly not impressed as Percival floated beside him.


    "Agreed." Percival looked around as if a secret civilization wasn''t all that impressive in the least.


    These two ancient figures splashed water on the amazing sights since they have seen vast goldy structures that triumph these mere buildings.


    "Darling~" Agatha let out a soft giggle, a hint of a moan lacing her voice.


    The others glanced back, momentarily distracted by the sight of Ricky kissing her neck, his hands exploring with a mix of intimacy and possessiveness with one gripping her ass while the other caressed her leg, raising it gently.


    "God, you''re so breathtaking~" Ricky whispered in her ear, his voice low and sultry.


    Agatha''s smile widened, her eyes sparkling with mischief as she stroked his black hair, marveling at how much more handsome he had become.


    The change in him was undeniable; he radiated confidence and a rugged charm that only deepened her attraction.


    The playful energy between them filled the air, igniting an undeniable chemistry that seemed to dull the world around them


    *Ahem*


    Rachael cleared her throat, her voice cutting through the playful atmosphere, trying to regain some semblance of seriousness.


    Ricky, however, was unfazed, his focus entirely on Agatha, who wore an amused smirk.


    *Snap*


    "Elara, Elowen."


    Snapping her fingers, both a man and a woman emerged from the nearby shadows, their movements fluid and almost synchronized.


    They stood side by side, exuding an air of quiet confidence that drew the group''s attention.


    Their features were strikingly similar: angular faces framed by dark, cascading hair, and sharp, piercing eyes that seemed to glimmer with an otherworldly light.


    The man wore a fitted black tunic that accentuated his athletic build, while the woman was clad in a flowing dress that shimmered subtly, catching the light in a way that made her look ethereal.


    "Yes, Grand Elder," they both replied in unison, bowing their heads in respect for Agatha. Their synchronized movements reflected a deep-rooted discipline that suggested they were no ordinary servants.


    "Escort my three guests to proper accommodations befitting their status as my guests." Agatha commanded effortlessly, a hint of authority lacing her words.


    "And ensure that any reasonable requests they have are accommodated." Agatha voiced specifically, the twins bowing deeply at her words.


    With that, the twins nodded and turned to lead the way, their movements fluid as they gestured for the three of Chores, Barko, and Rachael to follow.


    The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as the group followed the twins through dimly lit corridors adorned with intricate tapestries that whispered of ancient magic.


    As the twins navigated the labyrinthine hallways, Alexander, who had been perched on Chores shoulder, suddenly hopped off and scurried over to Ricky with a sense of urgency.


    "Ricky, don''t you dare try to avoid our conversation or face my future wrath." Alexander''s expression was serious, but there was an undercurrent of playfulness that hinted at their usual banter.


    Ricky rolled his eyes, wanting to kick the little creature away, but the weight of Alexander''s words hung in the air, reminding him of the unfinished business between them.


    "Fine, but can we do it quickly?" Ricky bent down, facing the up right gerbil who was clearly annoyed.


    Instead of brushing him off, Ricky demonstrated how much he had matured by treating Alexander with the respect he deserved at least to a varying degree since the shift in their dynamic was subtle yet significant, a testament to Ricky''s growth.


    Agatha observed this interaction keenly, her eyes sparkling with approval as she noticed Ricky gently picking up the little gerbil.


    "Alright, what''s up?" Ricky walked over a little bit to the side, looking over at Agatha who seductively waved at him before Alexander clawed on his cheek.


    "Ricky, I understand and commend your efforts over the last year, truly." Alexander puffed out his furry chest, knowing that it was commendable for how much focus poured into his training.


    "I am proud as your mentor to be able to witness your growth firsthand, however." Alexander gave his compliments until he raised a single paw.


    "Magic is meant to fill in the cracks of your developing style." Alexander clarified, his voice steady and wise.


    "Focusing entirely on this precious growth in your young adult life can be detrimental to your future development." Alexander glanced at Ricky, ensuring he understood the gravity of his words.


    Originally, they had stepped back to allow Ricky to use magic as a means to enhance and refine his fighting style.


    However, Alexander recognized that relying solely on magic could lead Ricky to neglect the foundational skills necessary for true mastery.


    "You mustn''t forget that your physical abilities and combat skills are just as crucial." Alexander continued, emphasizing the importance of balance in Ricky''s training.


    Ricky nodded, taking in Alexander''s advice as he had always been tempted to lean heavily on his newfound magical powers, especially with how quickly he had progressed.


    "I really get where you guys are coming from, with me being the Black Knight and all." Ricky began, his tone earnest as he addressed Alexander and Percival.


    "Especially with two legendary figures supporting me and putting themselves on the backburner to let me get a true feel for magic, giving me the freedom to truly grow with my magic." Ricky paused, letting the weight of his words settle in before continuing.


    "But I''m like a warlock as well, not just a core user. If I''m going to elevate my fighting style, I need to explore whether witchcraft can truly elevate it. But listen, if it doesn''t work out, I''ll step back. I''m just asking for you both to trust me." Ricky''s eyes searched their faces for understanding, knowing he wasn''t asking for much but hoping they could see his perspective.


    Ricky could feel the tension in the air as he spoke, aware that his words placed them in a difficult position.


    "Very well." Percival let out a small sigh, his features softening as he considered Ricky''s plea as he conceded, though his voice carried an undertone of caution.


    "But just remember, if it conflicts with the sword. I urge you to reconsider, as you said." Percival gave his blessing, stepping back temporarily to allow Ricky to make his choice.


    Ricky turned to Agatha, who had been watching with a delightful smile, her expression a mix of admiration and amusement.


    "Actually darling, I also want you to meet the council since I have spoken-"


    "Baby, I''ll do whatever you like." Ricky leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to Agatha''s cheek while his hand slipped possessively around her waist, giving her ass a gentle squeeze as she responded by playfully patting his chest, her eyes sparkling with mischief.


    "Hmmmmm, good boys get good rewards~" Agatha whispered in his ear, her breath hot against his skin, sending a delightful sense of excitement coursing through his pants.


    Meanwhile in High Tribunal,


    In the heart of New Salem stands the High Tribunal, a venerable council of elders and mystics who govern with wisdom forged from generations of magical lore.


    Their authority is deeply rooted in both tradition and necessity, overseeing the delicate balance between mundane life and the mystical forces that shape their existence.


    Among these seven elders, one is granted the esteemed position of High Elder, effectively serving as the de facto leader of the Tribunal: Agatha Harkness.


    Her reputation as a formidable sorceress precedes her, and her guidance is sought by many within the magical community.


    Known for her cunning and mastery of ancient spells, Agatha wields significant influence, shaping the policies and practices that govern their world.


    The other six elders, while serving under Agatha, are powerhouses in their own right, each embodying unique aspects of witchcraft.


    They possess vast knowledge and capabilities, representing different schools of magic and mystical traditions.


    Some specialize in elemental magic, harnessing the forces of nature, while others delve into necromancy, divination, or enchantment.


    Together, they form a council that is both diverse and potent, working alongside Agatha to maintain order and ensure the safety of their realm.


    This formidable assembly of wisdom and power is tasked with navigating the complexities of their existence, where threats can arise from both the human world and the darker corners of the magical realm.


    The Tribunal''s decisions can alter the fate of New Salem and beyond, making their deliberations a matter of utmost importance, often cloaked in secrecy and steeped in the ancient rituals that govern their practices.


    "Come on, Zatanna, come to Uncle~" An old man with a long, wispy beard waved an array of colorful stuffed animals, each one more whimsical than the last, in an attempt to entice the baby girl.


    "No, honey, come to Aunty~" A woman stepped in, her arms overflowing with an assortment of delicious treats, from sparkling candies to frosted pastries, hoping to lure Zatanna with sweet indulgences.


    "No, come to me!" The old man interjected, a twinkle of mischief in his eye.


    "Zatanna, you wouldn''t want to smell that musty man, come to your real Aunty~" Another voice chimed in, playfully dismissing the old man with a wave of her hand.


    "Not me!" he protested, his laughter echoing through the room.


    "Please come to me, please~" He whined in mock desperation, making exaggerated puppy-dog eyes at the baby.


    The scene was a delightful chaos, with these once-dignified elders throwing aside their usual gravitas in a bid to win the affections of the tiny witchling.


    Their laughter and playful banter filled the air, painting a picture of warmth and camaraderie that enveloped the room.


    However, amidst the flurry of stuffed animals and treats, Zatanna remained blissfully oblivious.


    She tilted her head cutely, her large, curious eyes studying the antics of the elders, completely unbothered by their temptations.


    The vibrant colors and sweet smells seemed to intrigue her, but she stayed rooted in place, confused yet fascinated, as if she was trying to decipher the charm of the scene unfolding before her.


    The elders, undeterred, continued their playful antics, vying for a smile or a giggle from the enchanting little girl.


    *Bam*


    The door suddenly shot open, interrupting the playful scene as the elders quickly snapped their fingers, causing the various stuffed animals and treats to vanish into thin air.


    The air shifted, a wave of anticipation sweeping through the room as they recognized the presence of Agatha, who strode in with a confident grace, accompanied by a man whose aura radiated power.


    Ricky''s eyes fell upon a child that was whisked away from the elder and towards Agatha, nestling her within the arms of her mother.


    She had striking black hair and vivid green eyes that sparkled with curiosity.


    As Zatanna turned to face him, their gazes locked, sending a jolt of discomfort through him.


    It was a surreal moment, this tiny being was a part of him, yet he felt unprepared for the reality of fatherhood even when he was preparing himself for it.


    "Darling, these are my fellow Elders within the council." Agatha announced, her voice smooth and inviting.


    "And this little gem is Zatanna Luciano." Agatha gently pulled Zatanna closer, cradling her as if she were the most precious treasure in the world.


    "Your daughter," Agatha added, a warm smile lighting up her face as she relished the look of shock on Ricky''s.


    He had known he would meet her eventually, but he had imagined a different kind of meeting, one where he had already had his fill of Agatha instead of being caught off guard.


    "So this is the father of Zatanna?" An elderly man mused, his voice laced with skepticism as he stroked his beard thoughtfully, casting Ricky an uninterested glare.


    The room fell silent, the elders'' attention now fully on him, their expressions a mix of curiosity and judgment


    "Baba~" Zatanna called out, her voice sweet and innocent as she reached her tiny arms toward Ricky.


    The sight of her extending her little hands melted away the tension in the air, momentarily shifting the focus of the room.


    But as the elders observed this display of affection, their expressions transformed, skepticism giving way to a simmering hatred.


    "I hate him."


    "Agreed."


    Seeing Zatanna''s affection monopolized by this intruder, the elders exchanged glances that conveyed their collective disdain.


    Their expressions hardened, their once-dignified demeanor faltering as jealousy simmered just beneath the surface.


    They had dedicated countless hours to nurturing any sort of affection from Zatanna, yet here stood Ricky, a newcomer with no apparent standing, receiving the purest form of affection from the child they all regarded as precious.


    "Oh, don''t be like that, darling! Come and hold her~" Agatha teased, her wicked smile widening as she reveled in the discomfort etched on Ricky''s face.


    The playful glint in her eyes suggested she enjoyed every moment of this awkward interaction, making him squirm under the weight of both her gaze and the elders'' scrutiny.


    "To think you spawn such innocence, it''s baffling, really." Alexander mused from his perch on Ricky''s shoulder, the small gerbil''s voice tinged with both surprise and amusement.


    Percival nodded in agreement, rubbing his chin thoughtfully as he observed the unfolding scene.


    "Yes, it is good that you''ve done your duty and continued the bloodline." Percival remarked, his gaze fixated on Zatanna.


    Percival considered her potential, the legacy that blossomed from Ricky''s lineage, and the signature powers she might one day wield.


    "A-Alright," Ricky stammered, feeling a surge of nerves as he decided to step forward.


    His movements were more of an inching shuffle than a confident stride, anxiety bubbling within him as Zatanna squealed with delight, her giggles filling the air with a sweetness that contrasted sharply against the elders'' critical stares.


    Finally, he reached Agatha, who smiled knowingly and handed the baby over to him.


    As Zatanna settled into his arms, he instinctively cradled her gently, his arms fully extended in an awkward embrace that was more reminiscent of someone handling a delicate artifact than a parent holding their child.


    Despite this, Zatanna didn''t seem uncomfortable in the least; instead, she continued to giggle joyfully, her innocent laughter a melodic counterpoint to the tension in the room.


    "Baba, baba~" Zatanna cooed, her little hands reaching out toward Ricky as if she instinctively recognized him as a kindred spirit.


    Zatanna''s eyes sparkled with a magical innocence that echoed their shared heritage as Homo Magi, a bond that transcended words and logic.


    In that moment, Ricky felt a connection with her that was deeper than he could articulate, a thread woven from the very fabric of their magical lineage.


    "She likes you!" Agatha exclaimed, clapping her hands together in delight as she watched the scene unfold.


    Her expression was infused with a mother''s warmth, a mixture of pride and amusement.


    Agatha''s gaze lingered on Ricky, her smile growing broader as she observed how Zatanna responded to him so naturally, her laughter lighting up the room like a beacon.


    Although at the time Agatha took Ricky up to his room for a bit of fun, she never intended for it to lead to something so profound.


    Their encounter was meant to forge a connection with a potential powerhouse, an alliance that could strengthen her standing in the magical community.


    But fate had a different plan, and it resulted in her giving birth to their daughter, Zatanna.


    When Zatanna entered the world, Agatha was taken aback by the raw potential she sensed in her daughter.


    The little girl radiated power that was undeniably extraordinary, and Agatha couldn''t help but feel a pang of disbelief.


    As she looked into Zatanna''s bright green eyes, she realized with growing certainty that this kind of magic didn''t stem from her lineage; it was a gift inherited from Ricky.


    Driven by curiosity and a desire to understand the origins of her child''s remarkable abilities, Agatha began to dig deeper into Ricky''s past.


    She meticulously pieced together information, uncovering his identity as Ricky Luciano.


    The timeline of his banishment coincided with significant events in her own life, creating a web of connections that both intrigued and unsettled her.


    As the truth unraveled, Agatha felt a shift in her perspective and slowly, Ricky wasn''t just a fleeting romance; he was a key player in a much larger narrative.


    She found herself drawn to him in a way she hadn''t anticipated, wanting to keep him close and nurture a bond that transcended their initial encounter.


    No longer content with being just a one-time fling, Agatha envisioned a future where they could build something together, a partnership that would not only benefit them but also provide a stable foundation for Zatanna.


    Determined to solidify their connection, Agatha made it her mission to learn everything she could about Ricky along with his strengths, his weaknesses, and the complexities of his character.


    Agatha realized that keeping him in her life would not only be advantageous for her ambitions but also crucial for Zatanna''s development.


    "Everyone, my darling will be studying here for the time being to better hone his warlock potential." Agatha announced, proudly revealing Ricky''s identity as a warlock.


    The declaration momentarily stunned the elders, who had been bracing themselves for a confrontation as the gravity of her words settled in, their guarded expressions beginning to soften.


    "Why wasn''t he recruited by you in the first place?" One elderly man asked, his brow furrowed in confusion.


    It was hard for him to fathom how the father of Zatanna had not already been welcomed into their ranks.


    "He''s been a little busy being the Black Knight," Agatha replied with a playful smile but the atmosphere shifted dramatically at her words.


    The mention of Ricky''s title sent a ripple of magic pulsing through the room, the elders instinctively shifting their stances as they regarded him with newfound hate and wariness.


    Feeling the tension rise, Ricky instinctively pulled Zatanna closer to him, wrapping his arms around her protectively.


    He could sense the potent energy swirling in the air, and a primal instinct kicked in, urging him to be prepared for anything.


    As if in response to the rising threat, the ebony blade materialized in his hand, it''s dark surface glinting ominously in the light.


    Without hesitation, the armor enveloped his body, forming a protective shell that bolstered his confidence.


    Standing before the towering figures of the council, Ricky met their gazes with unflinching resolve.


    "AGATHA, THE CHURCH HAS BEEN HUNTING US-"


    "Separate branches-"


    "UNDER THE SAME NAME AS THE GOD HE FIGHTS FOR!" A woman shouted at Ricky, her voice cutting through the tense atmosphere like a blade but Ricky scoffed, unfazed.


    "That''s why you''re mad. Listen, lady, I only fight for myself, and now I guess for her." Ricky replied, gesturing to Zatanna, who was giggling happily in his arms.


    "Agatha, you sired a daughter with the Black Knight. What were you thinking?" Another elderly woman frowned, her disapproval palpable as she held up her hands in exasperation.


    "Zatanna was a beautiful accident, I''ll admit," Agatha said, unabashed but didn''t feel guilty in the least.


    "But he''s not only the Black Knight; he''s Ricky Luciano." Agatha pulled out a dry cleaning stub and winked at him, a mischievous glint in her eyes.


    Ricky''s eyes widened in surprise at her casual revelation as he hadn''t expected her to reveal his identity so easily.


    "All I''m suggesting is that we consider the proposal. Ricky is a member of the church but holds no allegiance to them, and he could shield us." Agatha said, shifting the conversation back to a strategic focus.


    The elders exchanged glances, their initial desire to refute her claims warring with the reality that Ricky was not just any fighter but a warlock with connections to the church.


    The weight of Agatha''s words hung heavily in the air, prompting them to reconsider.


    "Very well, let us reconvene after we''ve thought properly about it." The old man said, scanning the room for agreement.


    The other elders nodded, the tension easing slightly as they began to process the implications of Agatha''s proposal.


    "Agatha, what is going on-" Ricky started, bewildered by the turn of events.


    "Darling, I know it''s a lot, but could you please trust me?" Agatha interrupted, leaning closer to him, her demeanor shifting to something more intimate.


    She gently took Zatanna from his arms and floated her over to the elders, who immediately began to dote on the baby, showering her with affection and treats.


    "That means you two have to leave as well." Agatha shot a pointed look at Alexander and the floating Percival, who frowned but understood the urgency of the situation.


    As the others exited, Agatha conjured a swirling portal, pulling Ricky into her luxurious chambers.


    The opulence of the room enveloped them, rich fabrics and delicate enchantments creating an intimate atmosphere.


    "We need to talk, darling. Please." Agatha urged, sensing his apprehension but before Ricky could voice his concerns, she took the lead and they both settled onto the massive bed, the plush comfort contrasting sharply with the tension in the air.


    "I know you came here to train." Agatha began, her tone serious while caressing her cheek.


    "But darling, there is a crisis within the coven." Agatha''s fingers gently caressed Ricky''s frowning face, her touch both soothing and grounding as he braced for what was to come.


    "What crisis?" Ricky asked, knowing he shouldn''t pry but unable to hold back. His instincts urged him to be wary, to prepare for trouble lurking beneath the surface.


    "For centuries, a rogue branch of the Vatican has been chasing and eradicating all witchkin and warlock kind," Agatha said, her voice steady but laced with urgency.


    "The most tragic part of this story was the Salem witch trials, where they discovered our hidden town and burned countless innocents at the stake." Agatha sighed, recalling the horrid memory that is still burdening her heart even today.


    "But our sources say the hunters have slowly started to pick up on our scent. I''m sure they will track down our hidden paradise soon, finishing what they started centuries ago." Agatha held Ricky''s hands into her own, staring him deeply into his eyes.


    "So you want me to fight them-"


    "Oh darling, no. God knows what they''re up to right now; you''d only go on a wild goose chase after those nutjobs." Agatha dissuaded him, watching as Ricky''s frown deepened.


    "I want you, Ricky Luciano, to protect my coven and take us to New York until they finally revela themselves." Agatha''s request was bold, and Ricky immediately looked away, his thoughts swirling.


    "Ohhhhhhhhhh, I don''t know-"


    "Darling, listen. I know about your situation with Dracula." Agatha grabbed his arm, anchoring him in place between her cushions.


    "We will lend you our forces when you clash with him. We''ll put everything into assisting you, but we cannot stay here for another ten years." Agatha had a pleading urgency in her voice, and Ricky couldn''t help but listen intently.


    "The witch hunters have been picking off our scouts one by one, the very ones we''ve placed to gather intelligence on witchkin. They''re slowly uncovering our whereabouts." Agatha said, her hands trembling, betraying the weight of her anxiety.


    Ricky let out a weary sigh, but he reached for her hands, clasping them firmly in his.


    "Agatha, you said it yourself: I''m not strong enough-"


    "But when you kill Dracula, you''ll be so notorious that even the witch hunters will have to back off. You will give us a safe haven within your territory and more time to raise our daughter." Agatha spoke of Zatanna with a fierce determination, knowing she was the future of their cult. But they needed much more time to properly nurture her into a true powerhouse.


    *Sigh*


    Ricky wanted to crumple under the weight of the decision, yet he held firm, aware that taking in an entire advanced coven wouldn''t be as simple as it seemed.


    "So this is my offer, darling," Agatha said, her voice sultry and smooth. "I''ll help you in your war with Dracula, lending you the forces and equipment you need." Agatha purposefully trailed off, slowly positioning herself over Ricky, rubbing against his growing arousal.


    Honestly, Ricky was likely to accept regardless; the offer was incredibly tempting and yet, his business sense urged him to remain silent for just a little longer, hoping that Agatha might reveal even more valuable concessions.


    "I''ll even give myself to you as your woman; heart, mind, body, and soul." Agatha''s whispers echoed seductively in Ricky''s ears, igniting a fire within him that he could no longer resist.


    "For the minor fee of allowing my coven to migrate into Luciano territory when you finally return." Agatha softened her tone, but Ricky had already lost control as in a surge of desire, he threw her onto the bed, unable to hold back any longer.


    "Yeah, deal."

 Chapter 93 - 91: Year One Pent Up (R18)

    Chapter 93: Chapter 91: Year One Pent Up (R18)


    Agatha let out a low, simmering chuckle as she watched Ricky pull off his shirt, the muscles of his torso flexing beneath her eager gaze.


    Her fingers glided down the sides of his abs, tracing each ridge and contour with a teasing touch, feeling the heat radiating from his skin.


    With her other hand, she deftly unbuckled his belt, the metallic clink echoing in the charged air between them.


    Licking her lips, she felt the pent-up tension from her long days being an elder by day and a mother to Zatanna at night bubbling to the surface.


    Instead of taking control as she usually would, she decided to let Ricky have his way with her tonight as he had earned this moment, and she wanted to relish every second of it.


    Lying back on the bed, Agatha gave him a playful smirk, her purple hair cascading around her like a halo as it spilled over the edge.


    The sight of him, raw with desire, sent a thrill through her as she watched, breathless and eager, as he tore off her clothes, each rip of fabric unveiling more of her skin, igniting the air with anticipation.


    "Mmmmmh~" Agatha let out a soothing moan, her body responding eagerly as Ricky slid his hands down her now naked form, his fingers finding their way to her glistening folds. The warmth of his touch sent shivers of anticipation coursing through her.


    "And here I thought you were going to ravage me~" she whispered seductively into his ear, her voice dripping with desire as he leaned down, his breath hot against her skin.


    "The night''s young." Ricky chuckled, a playful glint in his eyes.


    "And besides, I don''t think you''ve ever let me make the first move, I want to enjoy it." Ricky slowly whispered, capturing her lips with his own, their mouths moving together in a heated dance that ignited the air between them.


    When they broke apart, Agatha bit her lip, her head falling back as Ricky slid his fingers into her, filling her completely.


    The sensation sent a delicious ripple of pleasure through her, arching her back as she gasped, craving more of his touch.


    "Just like that." she urged, her voice trembling with need, urging him to explore deeper, to push her further into ecstasy.


    "Ha~" Agatha let out a breathy moan, feeling the pleasure amplify as Ricky pressed his face into the crook of her neck, inhaling her intoxicating scent while she wrapped her arms around him, pulling him closer.


    "You''re such a tease~" Agatha murmured, her body flowing fluidly beneath his touch, moving like a wave as Ricky''s fingers guided the tides, sending her spiraling into ecstasy.


    "Says the tease." Ricky chuckled, his lips trailing down her skin, leaving a trail of warmth as he laid mark after mark on her sensitive flesh.


    His hands sank deeper into her slick, wet folds, exploring her with a maddening slowness that made her shudder with desire.


    "Ah~" Agatha gasped, the sound escaping her lips like a plea as her back arched into his hand, begging for more.


    Just as the heat began to build, he slowly stood up, leaving her yearning for his touch, the anticipation hanging thick in the air.


    As Ricky pulled off his pants, his cock sprang free, slapping against her thigh with a sound that made Agatha''s eyes flutter open into a teasing squint.


    Her hands glided down his back, fingers trailing over the muscles as they moved to her swaying breasts, squeezing and pulling them playfully.


    She put on a show just for him, each motion eliciting a cascade of soft moans that tumbled from her lips as Ricky''s fingers worked their magic, coaxing one breathy sound after another from her.


    Unable to hold back any longer, Ricky slowly withdrew his fingers from her folds, a bridge of glistening nectar connecting them momentarily before it snapped, leaving a shimmering trail.


    He positioned himself at her entrance, the heat of his cock poised before her waiting gate, a silent invitation that promised to fulfill her every craving.


    "AH~" Agatha let out a towering moan as Ricky slid into her, feeling his girth manhandle her slick folds apart, stretching her in the most delicious way.


    His length filled her completely, as if he were picking up right where he had left off, his presence as familiar as it was intoxicating.


    "F*cking hell, Agatha, you''re as tight as ever~" Ricky breathed, his voice low and filled with awe as he relished the way her wet walls clung to him, enveloping him in warmth.


    As his hands moved slowly toward her, he entwined his fingers with hers, their connection deepening the intensity of the moment.


    The pressure built between them, an electric charge that ignited their bodies and set them on a path of pure ecstasy.


    "Don''t lie, darling~" Agatha smiled, but there was a flicker of insecurity in her eyes that she couldn''t quite hide.


    After having Zatanna, she felt like the epitome of unattractiveness as the changes her body had undergone after birth left her drowning in self-doubt, and each glance in the mirror seemed to amplify those insecurities.


    Agatha was starving herself, obsessively trying to shed the baby weight that was barely even there, yet she couldn''t shake the feeling of inadequacy that clung to her.


    "Agatha, look at me." Ricky''s hands moved to her cheeks, cradling her face gently as he compelled her to meet his gaze, his green eyes unwavering and sincere.


    "You''re as beautiful as the first time you tied me to the bed." Ricky flashed a cheeky smile, and the warmth of his words wrapped around her like a comforting embrace.


    Agatha laughed, a sound that echoed with a mix of relief and affection, and she nestled into his hand, feeling the weight of her doubts begin to lift.


    Their lips met once more, and Agatha felt her heart melt under his tender touch.


    Ricky''s words had worked their magic, easing her insecurities as her legs instinctively wrapped around his waist, pulling him closer.


    His hips moved forward slowly, savoring the exquisite sensation of Agatha enveloping his cock in her tight, wet heat.


    The sheer warmth of her body wrapped around him ignited a fire within, intensifying his desire.


    When he finally pulled away from her lips, a low, soft moan escaped her red lips, letting Ricky know that she was feeling all of him.


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    Agatha couldn''t stop the flurry of moans escaping her luscious lips, each sound a reflection of the overwhelming pleasure as Ricky''s cock completely filled her to the brim.


    She had unknowingly missed the sensation of being one with him, and it ignited a deep longing within her.


    "Tell me you love me~" Ricky whispered into her ear, a teasing smile gracing his lips as he thrust deep into her folds, relishing the view of her beneath him.


    Both of her hands pinned against the bed, her hair cascading over her beautiful face, while her breasts swayed in a mesmerizing counterclockwise motion, perfectly in tune with the sultry melody of her moans.


    Nectar pooled beneath the impact of his cock slamming into her waist, her folds swelling with juices, leaving the sheets stained with their passionate interaction.


    "S-Stop~" Agatha instinctively breathed out, her cheeks flushing deeply as she turned her head away, but Ricky leaned down closer, a playful grin spreading across his face.


    *THUMP*


    *THUMP*


    *THUMP*


    The bed thumped against the wall, the rhythmic sound matching the fervor of Ricky as he ravaged Agatha''s body, just as he had promised.


    Agatha laid beneath him, surrendering completely to his every thrust as she took him completely without any complaints.


    But it wasn''t just the bed that thumped to the tune of their passion, her heart raced in time with the intensity, pulsing wildly in her chest as Ricky whispered sweet nothings into her ear.


    "Your body is perfect, Agatha." Ricky murmured, his sultry tone sending shivers coursing through her while his cock sent shockwaves down her pleasure receptors.


    "It''s like I never left. F*ck, you feel so good~" Ricky continued, his words a balm against her self-doubt, each one filled with genuine admiration that pushed her insecurities aside.


    "HA~" Agatha''s head fell back as she felt Ricky hit her sweet spot, the tone of her voice enveloped in the warmth of his presence.


    "Every inch of you drives me wild, Agatha." Ricky breathed, his voice low and sultry as he thrust deeper, igniting her senses with each powerful movement.


    "I could lose myself in you forever." Ricky confessed, his gaze intense, locking onto hers as he watched her respond to his every caress, banishing her doubts with his unwavering desire.


    "RICKY~" Agatha moaned his name, her insides flushing with heat as he pumped his cock into her again and again, each thrust sending waves of pleasure coursing through her body.


    "AHHHHHH~" Agatha screamed in ecstasy, her orgasm crashing over her like a tidal wave as she melted under Ricky''s touch.


    Laying breathlessly, her clouded eyes gradually regained clarity, the realization washing over her that she wasn''t overflowing with Ricky''s cum.


    Turning to face him, her eyes instinctively filled with tears just as he was about to restart his pace, but he flinched at the sudden shift, her emotions swirling within her.


    *Sniff*


    *Sniff*


    "Nothing, nothing''s wrong." Agatha pushed against his chest, covering her eyes with trembling fingers.


    Slowly, Ricky pried her hands away, revealing the vulnerable sight of Agatha, her defenses down for the first time in decades.


    "Did I do something wrong?" Ricky asked, shock clear on his face as the thought of teasing her for coming first completely evaporated with the sudden shift in her demeanor.


    "I''m fine, keep going-" Agatha turned away, but Ricky sat up and pulled her onto his lap, wanting to comfort her.


    "Agatha." Ricky spoke her name gently, his gaze steady on her as she wiped her eyes.


    The pregnancy hormones still made her more susceptible to her emotions, amplifying the vulnerability she felt inside that was usually tucked away.


    *Sniff*


    "Tell me what''s wrong." Ricky gently moved her chin to face him, his thumb rubbing her cheek as he looked into her genuine and sincere expression.


    "W-Why didn''t you finish?" Agatha sniffed, catching Ricky completely off guard.


    *Snort*


    "Hahahahahaha!" Ricky burst into laughter, causing Agatha''s brows to furrow as she playfully hit his chest in response.


    *Sniff*


    "It''s not funny. I''m serious, you think I''m ugly-"


    "What are you talking about?!" Ricky interrupted, his laughter fading as he wiped tears from his eyes.


    "We always did this or at least, I thought we did, where we both see who can push the other over the edge first, then rub it in each other''s faces. It''s our thing." Ricky leaned in closer, his breath warm against her skin, making her cheeks flush as she turned away.


    "I don''t think you''re ugly; why the hell would I?" Ricky pressed a light kiss to her cheek, then another, and another, until Agatha finally turned back to him.


    "I think you''re as breathtaking as the first time you said ''Why not?'' to me in that bar." Ricky''s voice softened as he recalled their first encounter, the moment when Agatha found him cute enough to distract her from the day''s stress.


    "And not only are you glowing as the mother of our beautiful daughter, but I honestly believe you''re even more stunning than before." Ricky leaned in and kissed her lips, but Agatha slowly broke the kiss, her gaze dropping.


    "You''re just saying that-"


    "No, I''m not. Agatha, you''re a babe, and I want to knock you up again just for the satisfaction of having such a wonderful woman bear my child." Ricky spoke sweetly, his words laced with affection, causing Agatha to smile as she rested her head on his shoulder.


    They stood together in each other''s embrace, Ricky still undeniably aroused but gently stroking her back as he kissed her, discovering a side of Agatha he never knew existed.


    From Ricky''s perspective, Agatha had always been the one to take the initiative, the one who would suddenly appear in his room and yank off her clothes with an enticing confidence.


    He genuinely wondered if her insecurities lingered after having Zatanna, even after all those passionate nights they shared together.


    But for right now, at least in this moment, Ricky was going to hold Agatha tight to make sure she wasn''t alone anymore.


    "I-I love you," Agatha whispered, unable to hide the warmth spreading across her cheeks as she turned her gaze away, feeling a mix of vulnerability and embarrassment.


    "You what?" Ricky asked, his voice teasing yet genuinely surprised.


    Ricky gently leaned over her, positioning himself above her as she averted her eyes, trying to conceal her shyness.


    "I love you, happy?" Agatha brushed it off, the words escaping her lips with a mix of pride and shame.


    Agatha felt a twinge of insecurity at expressing such a sentiment, especially considering her own sadistic tendencies.


    But as Ricky''s eyes locked onto hers, the warmth of his gaze pulled her back to him, compelling her to face the truth of her feelings.


    "I love you too." Ricky''s words sent a surge of warmth through Agatha, her heart racing as her cheeks flushed a maddening red.


    For so long, she had maintained a facade of sadistic confidence, never allowing anyone to penetrate her defenses.


    The fear of heartbreak loomed larger than any physical wound, and yet, against all odds, Ricky had slipped through the cracks of her carefully constructed armor.


    He managed to weave himself into the fragile strands of her heart, mending the vulnerabilities she had long kept hidden and filling her with an overwhelming tide of affection.


    "Ah~" Agatha moaned, a wave of pleasure crashing over her, amplified by the intensity of her feelings.


    The warmth spreading through her chest deepened their connection, making every touch more fulfilling, every movement more electric.


    "W-Wait-AH~" Agatha gasped, pushing against his chest, taken aback by the sudden rush of pleasure.


    But before she could catch her breath, Ricky thrusted into her again, his cock slamming deep within her.


    "AHHHHHH!" Agatha couldn''t stop the sound escaping her lips, a long, drawn-out moan that echoed in the room as her head hit the bed.


    Her limbs instinctively wrapped around him, pulling him closer as if trying to meld their bodies together.


    If Ricky had always devoured her before, now it felt as though he was consuming every part of her being, leaving no chance for anyone else to claim even a single scrap.


    His movements were ravenous, driving deeper and deeper into Agatha as she unleashed one intense moan after another.


    *THWAP*


    *THWAP*


    Her pussy squealed as the sounds of Ricky''s cock slamming into her folds echoed throughout the room.


    Never before had Ricky felt this turned on by Agatha; seeing such a raw emotional side of her ignited a deep desire within him.


    The greed flourished inside him, longing for no one else to experience the same reactions or witness this part of her as he sought to fill her completely, to make her his in every sense.


    "AH!"


    "AH!"


    "AH!"


    Agatha''s claws dug into Ricky''s back, and she screamed at the top of her lungs as this new height of pleasure overwhelmed her senses.


    She couldn''t help but release her cries; every touch, every action, and even every breath that brushed against her skin drove Agatha wild with desire.


    Ricky held her tightly, his pace intensifying as her eyes rolled back in ecstasy. He could feel his balls swell, a sign of the impending climax.


    Winding his hips, he poured everything he had into each thrust, slamming his cock deeper into her as Agatha instinctively coiled around him.


    "AHHHHHHHHHH~" Agatha let out a long, drawn-out moan, orgasming fiercely as she felt the heat of his cum swirl deep within her womb.


    It swirled and pooled, as Ricky seemingly drained his balls dry, determined to fill Agatha to the very brim.


    Her walls were painted white as he filled her, ensuring her womb was filled to its utmost capacity.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Agatha let out haggard breaths beneath him, twitching fiercely as she reeled from the mind-numbing pleasure, relishing the warmth of his body.


    Caressing her cheek, Ricky slipped his tongue down her throat, playing with her mouth as she surrendered completely to his whims.


    After a while, he suddenly sat up over her, and Agatha''s breath slowly simmered until she looked back up at him, curiosity and warmth filling her gaze.


    "What-"


    "You love me~" Ricky teased, a sly smile spreading across his face as Agatha rolled her eyes.


    "You''re such a child." Agatha replied, unable to suppress a smile as she wiped her forehead.


    "Oh Ricky, you strong, handsome man with a jawline that can cut granite, you''re the love of my life. Ricky mocked, imitating Agatha''s voice as she shook her head.


    Before he could finish, she interrupted him with a long, passionate kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck and intertwining their tongues and slowly, she broke the kiss, leaving them both breathless.


    "Oh Ricky, you strong, handsome man with a jawline that can cut granite, you''re the love of my life~" Agatha echoed his earlier words, allowing him this moment without any strings attached as Ricky nodded, pleased.


    "I am pretty dashing, aren''t I?" Ricky replied, pressing his cheek against hers while she turned away to scoff.


    "And what''s worse is that you just can''t get enough of me-"


    "Alright, alright, calm down, darling; too much is a turn-off." Agatha patted his cheek, kissing his lips before gently caressing his face.


    They lingered in each other''s presence until Agatha lifted her weak and trembling legs, moaning softly as she unimpaled herself from his cock.


    Ricky watched intently as she got on all fours before him, arching her ass toward him.


    She spread her cheeks, cum still dripping from her folds, biting her lip while glancing back at him, making his breath catch.


    "You can have it~," Agatha sensually moaned, Ricky''s eyes widening as he took in the sight of her twitching asshole.


    It was an area she usually avoided, but today, she was ready to let him explore every part of her body.


    "Stop staring at it~" Agatha cooed, and before he could respond, Ricky pounced, his tip slowly slipping into her tightness.


    "Mmmmmmmh~" Agatha looked forward, biting her lip as her hands clenched the sheets below her as she felt the subtle pain of his cock slowly stretching her apart.


    But with Ricky''s hands firmly placed on her waist, pleasure began to seep into her mind, causing her eyes to flutter upward.


    "F*ck~" Ricky grunted, overwhelmed by how tight she was as he closed his eyes, savoring the sensation.


    It felt almost strangling as she clenched around him, her ass stretching in real-time and he knew he couldn''t hold back any longer.


    "MMMMMMMMMH~" Agatha''s teeth gnawed into the sheets as Ricky thrust the last remaining bit into her ass, causing her head to shoot up in response.


    *CLAP*


    Ricky''s waist smacking into her perky ass as the loud resounding sound of her cheeks clapping together echoed in the room.


    Ricky''s grip tightened around her hips as he drove into her, his thrusts deep and unrelenting, every inch filling her with an intense, throbbing fullness.


    Agatha''s breaths came in ragged gasps, her hands clutching at the sheets as Ricky moved, his pace measured but powerful, his hips pressing flush against her with each movement.


    Ricky''s amplifying fingers spread over her waist as he held her firmly in place, pulling her back to meet him with each thrust.


    Her body rocked with the force of his movements, her back arching as a hot flush spread through her.


    "AH~" Agatha moaned loudly, the sound muffled as her teeth sank into the sheets, each deep stroke sending waves of pleasure radiating through her, making her toes curl.


    *CLAP*


    *CLAP*


    *CLAP*


    The room echoed with the sound of their bodies meeting, Ricky''s rhythm building as he watched her respond, her body yielding to him completely.


    His hands slid down to her arms, gripping the sheets beneath them tightly before jerking her upward.


    "AH!" Agatha''s body jerked as she let out a towering moan, his cock plunging even deeper into her ass while he secured her arms behind her.


    The sensation of playing with Agatha''s body was intoxicating in its own right, knowing that these opportunities were rare as he plunged his cock into her once more.


    Ricky maintained a firm grip, pressing her wrists together behind her back as he pulled her against him, each thrust burying him even deeper.


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    Agatha''s body trembled, her moans spilling freely as she felt his relentless pace as her back arched further, pressing herself into him as he kept her held tight, her breath hitching each time he filled her.


    The mix of control and intimacy coursed through him, knowing she was laid out just for him.


    Every movement, every sound she made seemed to push him further, the intensity between them building.


    Agatha''s body shivered with every thrust, her hips rocking back to meet him.


    The sensation, the weight of his body pressed to hers, and his grip on her wrists sent a pulse of pleasure through her, leaving her completely at his mercy.


    Ricky''s teeth gritted, feeling his balls build up before ramping up his pace, the aggressive sound of his hips colliding with her ass giving Agatha the warning bells.


    The smacking of his hips against her only grew louder, his breaths heavy, ragged, filling the room along with her soft gasps and moans.


    Agatha''s body trembled beneath him, feeling every inch of his relentless movements, her own climax building in response to his fierce, unyielding pace.


    "AHHHHHHHH!" Agatha cried out, her voice laced with pleasure and desperation, her back arching as waves of warmth began to pulse through her.


    Ricky let out a low, guttural groan, the pressure finally releasing as he buried himself fully, her body shuddering as he released his entire load inside her.


    The sudden warmth sent Agatha over the edge, her own climax crashing through her, leaving her breathless as her body clenched around him, both of them caught in the intoxicating, heated moment.


    The searing heat left Agatha in a dazed state, her body still tingling, every nerve buzzing with the aftermath.


    "Phew~" Ricky sighed, falling back against the bed, lightly bouncing as he wiped the sweat from his forehead.


    Agatha, meanwhile, lay face down, Ricky''s cum pouring out of her ass and dripping from her pussy.


    Though fulfilled, she raised her disheveled hair, an unfulfilled expression crossing her face as that aching desire to lord an organism over him festered within her being.


    Turning back, Ricky thought it was over, but Agatha''s eyes told a different story as she crawled over him.


    Her movements were slow and deliberate as she reached the foothold of his balls, her hands inching toward his shaft.


    Ricky, convinced the moment had passed, looked down just in time to see Agatha tracing her tongue along the curve of his base, teasingly gliding all the way to the tip of his cock before enveloping him with her lips.


    In one fluid motion, his cock throbbed at the sight of Agatha completely swallowing him whole before pulling herself back up to kiss the tip.


    "We''re not done yet, darling~" Agatha''s sultry tone spoke volumes as she used her hands to coddle his cock with her enlarged breasts, her nipples slowly seeping out milk as Ricky bit his lip in anticipation.


    ''How the hell did I forget about that?'' Ricky thought to himself, kicking himself mentally as he breathlessly watched Agatha, mesmerized by her every move.


    Agatha''s lips curled into a wicked smile, her eyes alight with a predatory glint as she slowly pressed her breasts together tightly, trapping Ricky''s still-throbbing length tighter between them.


    Her milk leaked onto his veiny cock as her tongue slowly licked it clean, savoring every drop while her own breasts released a steady stream of milky white.


    Ricky was incredibly turned on as she shifted her gaze to him, letting the faintest hint of sadism slip into her expression, savoring his helpless anticipation.


    With deliberate slowness, she began to move, letting her breasts glide up and down, teasing him with the softness and warmth of her skin as she coated her cleavage with her milk, lubricating from its base while sensually licking the tip of his cock with her tongue.


    The warmth of Agatha''s skin enveloped Ricky, every movement sending shivers of pleasure coursing through him.


    Her gaze bore into him, dark and predatory, as she savored the effect she had on him.


    Each slow glide of her breasts over his length was an intoxicating tease, the slickness of her milk adding an extra layer of pleasure that made him gasp.


    "Do you like it when I suck your cock like this, Ricky?" Agatha purred, her voice a sultry whisper that vibrated against him as her tongue flicked out, catching the drops that dripped from her own breasts.


    "Yes, god yes." Ricky managed to choke out, the words tumbling from his lips as he surrendered to her torment.


    The world around him faded, leaving only the intoxicating sensation of her soft skin, the warmth of her breath, and the desperate need building within him.


    It was then that she fully submerged his cock into her mouth, letting it slide down her throat as her gums enveloped it in a slick, gooey embrace.


    Ricky''s head fell back at this point, giving way to Agatha''s eyes that formed into crescent moons as she bobbed her head, feeling relieved.


    Her strokes quickened as she realized he enjoyed it rough, eagerly pushing his cock down her throat to satisfy him.


    She felt him begin to twitch, and in that instant, Agatha drove her face down, swallowing him whole just as his balls started to churn.


    His cum erupted from the tip in the next moment, filling her stomach with an intense load, but Agatha remained steadfast.


    *Gulp*


    *Gulp*


    *Gulp*


    It was Agatha''s turn to milk him dry, swallowing every helping he gave her until her luscious lips slid back up, not before sucking the last drop from his tip.


    *POP*


    Ricky''s cock popped out of her mouth as Agatha patted his thigh before crawling onto his chest and letting out a relieved sigh.


    [Mission Received: Agatha Harkness]


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: S-


    Description: Agatha is a witch that governs over one of the most powerful witch covens in the world and has been around America since Salem. However, although Agatha is a woman of immense magical prowess and strength within her community, at times she becomes overwhelmed with stress and looks for ways to relieve it.


    Objective: Help Agatha relieve her stress and give her a gift with it


    Reward: 75,000


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once:


    Received: Agatha''s Magical Innate Powers


    Impregnate Twice:


    Choose: 150 Gacha or A cat from the same dimension as Agatha''s Legendary Familiar


    Additional Missions:


    Sleep with her within your first encounter with Agatha(Complete):


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Impregnate Agatha within her coven(Complete):


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Completely mind f*ck the witch who is known for her arts in mind control(Complete):


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    Turn the tables on her sadistic tendencies during any of your encounters(Complete)


    Reward: 50,000 IP


    Take Agatha''s Anal Virginity(Complete):


    Reward: Epic rank up coupon


    Secret Mission: Make her climax on her first time with anal


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    ???????????????????


    Overwhelm Agatha while she was in control(Complete):


    Reward: Epic Armor Coupon


    Get a full blown tit job and blowjob from Agatha(Complete):


    Reward: 100 gacha


    ???????????????????


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    Ricky lay on the enormous bed, Agatha nestled peacefully in his embrace, her fingers gently caressing his chest.


    Smiling to herself while rubbing the warmth still lingering within her stomach, feeling those insecurities melt away at the aftermath that was Ricky.


    ''Just receive the goddamn rewards and the familiar.'' Ricky thought, frustration bubbling beneath the surface.


    The empty spot where Henry used to be gnawed at him, leaving a hollow ache in his chest that he couldn''t ignore.


    Each time he glanced at that vacant space, the reminder of loss tightened around him like a vice, even as Agatha''s warmth enveloped him.


    (Epic Rank) Epic Rank Up Coupon: Allows for one skill or item to rank up to the legendary rank-


    ''Use on accelerated healing.'' Ricky thought, not wasting a moment since out of all the epic skills he had, it was the one he desperately wanted to improve.


    That was the one skill he wanted upgraded the most; it felt like he was always getting his ass kicked.


    Especially after training with Alexander, suffering every wound and blackened bruise reminded him just how crucial it was to bolster his defenses.


    He needed to bounce back faster, to turn the tides in his favor if he ever received a blow from an attack that penetrated his defenses.


    Legendary Skill: Regenerative Vitality Description: Regenerative Vitality represents an extraordinary ability to heal at an accelerated rate, surpassing ordinary human capabilities while not achieving instantaneous healing. This legendary skill allows the user to recover from injuries and wounds at an exceptionally rapid pace, promoting resilience and endurance in the face of physical harm.


    Accelerated Healing: Wounds and injuries heal at an enhanced rate, significantly faster than natural human healing processes.


    Resilience Enhancement: The user''s body possesses heightened durability and resistance to damage, aiding in recovery and minimizing the severity of injuries.


    Vital Energy Absorption: The ability to absorb ambient life force or energy from surroundings to expedite healing processes.


    Stamina Restoration: Enhanced stamina and endurance, allowing the user to sustain physical exertion and recover vitality more rapidly. Regenerative Adaptation: The ability to adapt to injuries over time, developing greater resistance to recurring damage or ailments.


    (Legendary Weapon) Oblivion Dagger: A one time use weapon that when activated by a specific incantation known only to its wielder, the Oblivion dagger can erase a person from existence across their timelines and banish any interaction of the existence from any nearby dimensions or other timelines. It functions by resonating with the target''s unique energy signature, which it absorbs upon contact with the blade''s surface.


    Activation: To activate the Oblivion Dagger, the wielder must recite a complex incantation while focusing on the intended target. The mirror then emits a faint hum as it aligns with the target''s existence across the multiverse.


    Effects:


    Erasure of Existence: Upon activation, the dagger absorbs the target''s essence, effectively erasing them from all known areas within your timelines and timelines dimensions. This erasure is instantaneous and irreversible.


    Timeline Reconciliation: The dagger''s magic extends beyond mere physical removal; it adjusts the fabric of reality to reconcile the absence of the erased individual. Memories of the erased person fade gradually from the minds of those who knew them, leaving no trace of their existence.


    Consequences:


    Causal Ripples: The removal of a person from existence can cause unforeseen ripples in the fabric of reality, potentially altering events and relationships connected to the erased individual.


    (Legendary Skill) King''s Haki: A rare and powerful form of spiritual energy possessed by select individuals, notably the Pirate King Gol D. Roger and his successor, Monkey D. Luffy. King''s Haki allows its user to exert their willpower over others, causing fear or knocking out weaker opponents.


    *Ding*


    [King''s Haki and the Innate skill Indomitable resolve are reacting fiercely with each other, do you wish to-]


    ''Yerp.''


    *Whoosh*


    *Huff*


    Ricky''s breath caught in his throat as a cold wave washed over him as a vibrant green aura suddenly erupted around him, signaling the birth of his first-ever mystic skill.


    The raw energy pulsed with intensity, causing Agatha to shake violently in his arms, her eyes wide with a mix of awe and fear.


    The air crackled with power, a tangible force that filled the room and sent shivers down her spine.


    *THUMP*


    *THUMP*


    *THUMP*


    Ricky''s heart raced, pounding against his chest as King''s Haki merged with him, transforming into an innate skill, the first of its kind in the universe.


    An overwhelming aura radiated from him, pressing down on everyone in New Salem.


    They could feel its weight, the sheer power causing them to sweat profusely as it enveloped the town, leaving a palpable sense of dread and reverence in its wake.


    *Ding*


    [Mythic Skill obtained]


    (Mythic Skill) Sovereign Haki: Sovereign Resolve combines the rare and potent abilities of King''s Haki with the unwavering determination of Indomitable Resolve. Which births a new skill in its entirety that only the user possesses.


    Abilities:


    Willpower Domination: Similar to King''s Haki, Sovereign Resolve allows its user to exert overwhelming willpower over others. They can induce fear in weaker opponents or those susceptible to psychic influence, compelling them to submit or retreat in awe.


    Emotional Mastery: Through mastery of Indomitable Resolve, the user of Sovereign Resolve maintains absolute control over their impulses and emotions with this activated. They remain calm and focused even in the face of overwhelming danger or adversity, unaffected by fear or external pressures.


    Unyielding Determination: Those with Sovereign Resolve possess an ironclad determination that enables them to pursue their goals relentlessly. They are unwavering in their convictions and immune to doubt, making them formidable leaders and warriors who inspire loyalty and awe in allies and foes alike.


    Leadership Aura: The presence of someone wielding Sovereign Resolve commands respect and instills confidence in allies, while striking fear into the hearts of enemies. Their ability to maintain clarity and decisiveness in critical moments elevates them to legendary status among their peers.


    *DING*


    [Combination with Host X-Gene: The user''s latent Haki, previously considered nonexistent in this universe, can now be replicated using their mental energy. This unique combination allows for the integration of the Host X-Gene''s powers, enhancing the user''s abilities and offering new avenues for combat and strategic advantage.]


    [Does the host wish to proceed; Warning: Death could happen]


    Power was just at his fingertips and Ricky, seeing it all unfold before him, couldn''t stop himself from wanting more.


    He willed his body to accept the surge, eager to embrace the overwhelming strength that beckoned him.


    Each pulse of energy ignited a hunger within, driving him to push further and unlock the full potential that lay just beyond his reach.


    *DING*


    Another wave of green energy surged forth, and Agatha instinctively reached out her hand, only to recoil and clasp her hands together as if warding off an unseen force.


    A magical barrier surrounded them, shimmering with an otherworldly light, while Ricky''s entire body exuded a potent green aura that pulsed with each breath he took.


    The experience was unnerving; blood trickled from his eyelids and ears, a testament to the agonizing pain that coursed through him, unlike anything he had ever imagined. It felt as if a torrent of energy was colliding with the walls of his mind, stretching the very fabric of his consciousness. Each pulse of green light sent shockwaves through his neural pathways, forcing his brain to adapt to the overwhelming influx of power.


    He could feel the synapses firing in chaotic bursts, battling against the sheer intensity of the energy surging within him.


    With each breath, the energy pushed harder against the limits of his psyche, demanding acceptance and control.


    Ricky fought to keep himself grounded, to maintain his sense of self amid the cacophony of power clamoring for dominance.


    It was as if a new neural network was forming, threads of light intertwining with his existing memories, creating a delicate tapestry of strength and vulnerability.


    Just as despair began to claw at him, he heard a distant, ringing sound as a melodic chime that cut through the torment.


    *DING*


    (X-Gene) Psionic Pyro-Sovereignty:


    Fusion Constructs with Sovereign Empowerment:Creation and Shape Manipulation: Ricky can materialize intricate constructs from a blend of psychic and fiery energy, forming anything from simple tools to complex machinery. Infused with Sovereign Haki, these constructs are not only exceptionally durable but also enhanced by Ricky''s mythic willpower, making them more resilient and versatile.Enhanced Durability and Offensive Capabilities:Construct Durability: Ricky''s creations benefit from Sovereign Resolve, granting them near-mythic durability. They can withstand immense force and remain effective in the harshest conditions.Powerful Projectiles: Ricky''s projectiles, combining psychic energy and fire, are further empowered by his Sovereign Haki. These projectiles can bypass conventional defenses and inflict devastating damage, reflecting his overwhelming willpower.Defensive Capabilities and Dual Mobility:Psychic Force Fields: Ricky''s force fields are enhanced by Sovereign Resolve, providing superior protection against mental and physical attacks. These shields are almost impenetrable, reflecting his unyielding determination.Mobility: Ricky''s ability to ride on streams of controlled fire or navigate on his psychic force fields is enhanced by his mythic power, offering exceptional aerial mobility and agility in battle.Psionic Infusion and Mental Control:Emotional Enhancement: Ricky can infuse his constructs and force fields with emotions or thoughts, guided by Sovereign Haki. This allows him to dynamically adapt his creations for strategic advantages, amplifying their effectiveness against specific opponents or situations.Strategic Combat: His mental control and Sovereign Resolve make him a versatile and strategic combatant, capable of leveraging the full range of his powers to dominate battles.Psychic Healing with Mythic Power:Healing Abilities: Ricky can use his psychic energy to heal himself and others, with the added enhancement of Sovereign Haki. This rapid healing effect is magnified, allowing for swift recovery and restoration of vitality.Sovereign Haki Abilities:Willpower Domination: Ricky can exert overwhelming willpower over others, inducing fear or awe in weaker opponents or those susceptible to psychic influence. This ability compels foes to submit or retreat, demonstrating his dominance.Emotional Mastery: Through Sovereign Resolve, Ricky maintains absolute control over his impulses and emotions, remaining calm and focused even under extreme pressure. This mastery ensures he is unaffected by fear or external stressors.Unyielding Determination: Ricky''s ironclad determination drives him to pursue his goals relentlessly. His unwavering convictions make him a formidable leader and warrior, inspiring loyalty and awe in both allies and enemies.Leadership Aura: The presence of Ricky commands respect and instills confidence in allies while striking fear into enemies. His clarity and decisiveness in critical moments elevate his status to legendary among his peers.


    *DING*


    Intelligence: 19¡ú27


    Ricky''s mind felt like it was being ripped apart and then forcefully pieced back together, the new mythic skill molding his psyche to handle its immense power.


    It was as if the very essence of his consciousness was being stretched to its limits, contorting and reshaping itself to accommodate the overwhelming strength now coursing through him.


    The skill compelled Ricky''s mind to embrace its potency, unknowingly enhancing his capabilities even further.


    Yet, the consequences of this transformation were severe and unforgiving.


    The strain manifested physically; his eyes were bloodshot, veins bulging as if they might burst from the pressure.


    Blood trickled from the corners of his mouth, pooling at the base of his chin, while streams of crimson oozed down from his ears, creating dark trails against his skin.


    An already growing pool of blood flowed from his nose, soaking into the sheets beneath him.


    Ricky''s breath came in ragged gasps, each inhaling a battle against the agony that threatened to consume him.


    Suddenly, the pain surged like a tidal wave, and with a final, shuddering gasp, he slumped to the ground as the world around him blurred as darkness crept into the edges of his vision.


    "R-Ricky¡ª" Agatha whispered, her voice trembling with urgency as she reached out for him, only to be halted by the sight of a familiar void opening up above him.


    Her heart raced, eyes wide with fear and disbelief. The dark portal swirled ominously, casting an eerie glow that flickered across the room, momentarily illuminating the chaos around them.


    Agatha''s gaze shifted, her focus sharpening as she sensed the shift in energy. Suddenly, from the shadows, a sleek black cat emerged, its eyes glinting like shards of emerald.


    "R-Ricky-" Agatha whispered, her voice trembling with urgency as she reached out for him, only to be halted by the sight of a familiar void opening up above him.


    Her heart raced, eyes wide with fear and disbelief as the dark portal swirled ominously, casting an eerie glow that flickered across the room, momentarily illuminating the chaos around them.


    Agatha''s gaze shifted, her focus sharpening as she sensed the shift in energy.


    Suddenly, from the shadows, a sleek black cat emerged, its eyes glinting like shards of emerald.


    It leaped onto the bed, landing gracefully yet defensively, hissing violently as its back arched and fur bristled while holding firm in front of Agatha clutching the weakened Ricky.


    "E-Ebony, take Ricky away and-" Agatha knew that portal, it was the same one that appeared when she first summoned Ebony but she wasn''t entirely sure if it was for Ricky, or something more sinister.


    *Ding*


    (Legendary Familiar): Garfield the Cosmic Cat


    Description: Garfield the Cosmic Cat is no ordinary familiar; he is a legendary entity steeped in mystery and mischief, known across dimensions for his insatiable appetite and unparalleled wit. Born from the whims of ancient cosmic forces, Garfield traverses realms with a nonchalant demeanor, his fur shimmering with interstellar hues.


    Abilities:


    Cosmic Appetite: Garfield possesses an infinite hunger that extends beyond mere sustenance. He can devour cosmic energies and arcane anomalies, transforming them into bursts of unpredictable power or cosmic threats.


    Magic Amplification: Garfield has the ability to amplify the magical abilities of his master. By channeling cosmic energies through his presence, he bolsters the user''s spellcasting prowess, enhancing their spells'' potency and effectiveness.


    Fourth-Wall Awareness: Garfield is aware of his existence within narratives and can occasionally break the fourth wall, offering sage (or sarcastic) advice to those who seek his counsel.


    Charm and Wit: Garfield''s charismatic wit and irreverent charm make him a beloved companion among adventurers and wizards alike. His sarcastic quips and clever retorts often lighten the gravest of situations.


    Eternal Aloofness: Despite his cosmic powers, Garfield maintains an aloof demeanor, choosing to ally himself with those who amuse him or offer him the tastiest of treats.


    (Favorability: 0)


    "Hmmmmmmm?" Garfield plopped onto Ricky''s bare chest, his hefty orange body making a soft thud as it settled.


    He frowned at the vague narration, his eyes narrowing in indignation as he took in the description of his ''fattened'' form.


    "I am not fat; I''m big-boned you half wit." Garfield retorted, his voice dripping with sarcasm.


    The room fell into a bewildered silence, everyone exchanging puzzled glances as the scene unfolded.


    Only Garfield could see the reader, his irritation palpable as he glanced around the room before landing on the eyes watching, clearly unimpressed by the confused expression of the reader registering that he wasn''t merely an outside party any longer.


    "So I''m in a story-ugh, whatever, who cares~," Garfield grumbled, his voice laced with indifference as the lazy cat didn''t even have the energy to complain about his peculiar situation.


    He shifted slightly, resting his hefty form against Ricky''s chest, then squinted down at him.


    "So you''re Ricky, and you summoned me, right?" Garfield sighed, tapping Ricky''s bloodied nose with a lazy paw.


    "Uh, Garfield?" Ricky blinked, momentarily taken aback as he actually recognized this furry creature, which seemed to surprise Garfield.


    The comic strip on the back of the newspaper growing up actually being one of the bright sides of his dim childhood.


    The cat''s ears perked up as he straightened, a mix of annoyance and curiosity crossing his face.


    "Yeah, yeah, the one and only, but before you ask, no. I don''t do autographs." Garfield replied, his voice dripping with nonchalance.


    "Wait, you can understand me?" Garfield asked before looking at the reader.


    ''He can understand me?'' Garfield, known as unable to be understood, couldn''t believe this and looked at the reader.


    "Yeah, I can understand you," Ricky sighed, rubbing his sweaty forehead with a grimace before gripping Garfield''s nape.


    With a gentle tug, he pulled the cat up and off his chest, holding him in the air while staring at the cat.


    As he looked at the cartoon character that had once brought him laughter during his childhood, a wave of nostalgia washed over him.


    "How. Dare. You." Garfield slowly voiced out, Agatha pulling up the covers while looking at this weird interaction.


    "Do you know the power I wield?" Garfield snarled, an orange aura radiating around him which made Ricky raise a brow.


    "I can-"


    "Yes, I do know what you wield, but it seems only the magic amplification is actually useful," Ricky said, his gaze fixed on his familiar skills. As he did, Garfield froze, his attention darting toward the reader.


    ''Did you tell him?'' Garfield shot a questioning look at the reader, his bluff thoroughly deflated.


    ''Wait, no, it''s this awful narrator!'' Garfield hissed inwardly, shooting a hateful glance at the narration.


    It was only then he realized while reading the next words that the fat orange cat was insulting the very entity that could decide his fate, causing his fur to pale slightly.


    With a quick shake of his head, he turned back to Ricky, pretending he hadn''t heard a word and being a good comedic relief character and sticking with the script.


    "W-Whaaaaaaaaaaaaat?" Garfield scoffed, only to see Ricky scrunch his brows.


    "I can eat cosmic energy-"


    "But there''s no cosmic energy here."


    "Well I can, um, I can-"


    "Only amplify my magic." Ricky finished, poking the cat''s fat belly while his paws tried to swipe him away.


    "I can do more things." Garfield protested, his limbs drooping in the air, a look of deep dejection spreading across his face at Ricky''s dismissive remark.


    "Now scurry out of here; I''ll find you once I''m done." Ricky said, letting Garfield drop onto the ground.


    The fat orange cat landed with a soft thud, crossing his arms in a huff, clearly sulking over his perceived uselessness.


    "Why should I listen to a naked human?" Garfield scoffed, turning his gaze away with an air of disdain.


    Ricky, however, shifted his attention to Agatha, who had silently commanded Ebony to take action.


    "Meow~"


    "Ha, do you think another cat could make me-"


    *GASP*


    Heart-shaped eyes appeared in Garfield''s gaze, as if romantic music had materialized from thin air, filling the space with an air of enchantment while hearts floated around the sleek black cat.


    "Do you believe in love at first sight, or should I walk by again?" Garfield slicked his hair back, puffing out his chest and strutting over to the other cat with exaggerated confidence.


    Her tails whispered in the air, taunting Garfield who didn''t even care to hear the narration as he saw the cat leaving but smoothly followed her out the door.


    "Oh baby, you''re the second most majestic thing I''ve seen in my lifetime, the reflection in your eyes being the first."


    The door clicked shut behind Garfield, leaving Ricky with a resigned sigh as he sank back onto the bed.


    Moments later, Agatha crawled over to him, her presence a comforting weight beside him.


    "Are you okay?" Agatha asked softly, stroking the back of Ricky''s head in a soothing gesture. He hugged her naked body tightly, resting his head between her perky breasts, seeking comfort in her naked warmth.


    Author''s Note: Ngl, I procrastinated this Chapter so f*cking hard but don''t worry the next Chapter will be out on sunday or later today depending where you are. Also, I''m going to try and practice fourth wall breaks with Garfield hence his introduction. Also, also, I haven''t got to your comments cause I''ve decided to procastinate them as well. Thanks for 11k collections.

 Chapter 94 - 92: Grimoire Ceremony And Next Year Time Skip

    Chapter 94: Chapter 92: Grimoire Ceremony And Next Year Time Skip


    The next day,


    "Darling, wake up~" Agatha''s voice drifted to him, soft and melodic.


    "Huh?" Ricky blinked his eyes open, meeting her gaze as she leaned over him, already dressed, gently caressing his face.


    "Today''s the day you become a warlock." Agatha pressed a tender kiss to his forehead before snapping her fingers, instantly dressing him in a traditional warlock robe.


    "Five more minutes." Ricky murmured, a sly smile forming as he tugged her back down beside him.


    "Or maybe ten?" Ricky''s lips found her neck, tracing soft, lingering kisses as Agatha chuckled, surrendering momentarily to his embrace.


    "Later, we''re already late." Agatha informed Ricky to hold up his head.


    "Late?"


    2 minutes later,


    "GREETINGS TO ALL MY FELLOW WARLOCKS AND WITCHES! I, ELDER SABITH, AM HERE TO CONDUCT AN INITIATION FOR SOMEONE WHO CLAIMS TO BE ONE OF US!" Elder Sabith announced, gesturing dramatically toward Ricky, who was walking beside Agatha.


    They were met by dozens of observing warlocks, including Rachael, Chores, and Barko.


    "Ha, good luck with that imbecile who''s too stubborn to memorize a spell," Rachael scoffed, prompting laughter from the other warlocks, witches, and even Agatha.


    "That''s the warlock in him, sweetie," Agatha teased, making the coven laugh even harder. Ricky and his companions, still confused, exchanged glances, unsure what they were missing.


    "Darling, warlocks and witches often struggle to keep track of the vast number of spells at our disposal, which is why we''ve evolved to bond with grimoires; they act as a conduit for a reason." Agatha explained, kissing his cheek and Ricky, a bit surprised, quickly attributed it to being a warlock rather than just a lazy magician.


    "I always knew it was something like that." Ricky nodded, prompting Rachael to narrow her eyes at his flimsy excuse as he walked toward the elder.


    "Now, if you truly are who you claim to be, then place your hand on the pedestal and¡ª"


    Ricky didn''t wait for him to finish as he placed his hand on the pedestal, which immediately began to glow, confirming he was indeed a warlock.


    "I told you my darling was a warlock!" Agatha cheered from the side, while the other elders exchanged awkward coughs.


    "Well, it still doesn''t mean that he is chosen by a grimoire-"


    "Wait, I already have one of those!" Ricky suddenly remembered, pulling a grimoire from his inventory just as another book flew out from the library shelves.


    Everyone froze, stunned, since Grimoires were rare treasures, often granted only by the library itself; if not chosen, a witch or warlock would have to spend years forging one, pouring their own blood and life force into it; a grueling, time-consuming task.


    But here stood Ricky, not only possessing a grimoire that had been tucked away for who knows how long in his system inventory, but now a second had emerged from the library, choosing him as its master.


    The green, soulbound grimoire in his hands began to glow, intertwining with his soul as it anchored itself to him, only to be disrupted by another grimoire hovering nearby, shimmering with a dark allure.


    Ricky''s eyes widened as the green grimoire shot out of his grip, drifting toward the black, radiant tome. The two books circled each other in the air, the green grimoire eventually taking its place behind the black one.


    *Bam*


    *Bam*


    *Bam*


    Everyone looked on in a mix of bewilderment and disbelief as Ricky''s original grimoire floated behind the black tome, appearing to jostle it in a strange, rhythmic pattern.


    The room echoed with the unusual thudding sounds, leaving the assembled witches and warlocks thoroughly perplexed.


    Watching as the green grimoire thrusted its pages fervently against the back cover of the black book, binding them together with an intensity that made the room fall silent, every onlooker watched as the two tomes merged in a bizarre, almost ritualistic fusion.


    [You''re soul bound grimoire is trying to merge with-]


    *Pffffft*


    ''Yeah.''


    Ricky burst into laughter at the absurdity of the scene, watching in disbelief as his system grimoire awkwardly attempted to ''bone'' the library''s grimoire, the ridiculousness of the moment lifting the tension in the air.


    *Ding*


    Legendary Growth Item: Eternity Grimoire


    Description: The Eternity Grimoire is a legendary spellbook of immense power, bound to its master in a bond that transcends time and space. Forged from the essence of ancient cosmic forces and infused with the souls of archmages, this grimoire is a living repository of boundless magical knowledge.


    Abilities:


    Soulbound Enhancement: The Eternity Grimoire is inherently linked to its master''s soul, growing in power as the caster''s magical abilities and knowledge expand. This bond ensures that only the chosen master can wield its full potential.


    Arcane Reservoir: The grimoire absorbs and stores every spell the caster learns, continually evolving to grant access to an ever-expanding range of magic. Its pages are endless, containing spells from all schools of magic and even forgotten arcane arts.


    Mastery of All Schools: As the grimoire accumulates spells, it also enhances the caster''s proficiency in various magical disciplines. This mastery allows the caster to weave complex spell combinations and channel arcane energies with unparalleled precision.


    Mystic Conduit: The Eternity Grimoire can draw upon ambient magical energies from its surroundings, replenishing the caster''s mana and amplifying their spells'' power during critical moments.


    Runic Evolution: The runes inscribed within the grimoire adapt and evolve, unlocking higher tiers of magic and ancient incantations. These runes also serve as protective wards, shielding the caster from harmful magic and curses.


    Traits:


    Ethereal Aegis: The grimoire provides a timed protective aura around the caster, shielding them from physical and magical harm. This aura can also be extended to protect allies in times of great need.


    Soul Regrowth: If the grimoire is ever destroyed, it has the ability to retreat into the user''s soul, undergoing a process of regeneration until it is fully restored.


    "B-By the bounds of magic." Elder Sabith whispered in disbelief, his eyes wide as he observed the grimoire hovering above Ricky.


    With a grin, Ricky began to manipulate it, making it float effortlessly in mid-air.


    Pulling out his bow, he tested his newfound control, delighting in the fact that he could wield both the weapon and the grimoire simultaneously as he couldn''t help but fist pump in triumph at his unexpected success.


    "This will make casting magic so much easier." Ricky whispered to himself, marveling at the newfound efficiency but also letting out a sigh of relief.


    Previously, he had to concentrate fully to cast spells, but now, with the conduit of his grimoire, all he needed to do was think of the spell and inject the necessary amount of magic power into it.


    The only downside was the risk of the grimoire being destroyed; losing it would make casting a challenge again until it repaired itself.


    But for now, Ricky brushed aside those concerns, reveling in the power at his fingertips.


    "Oh, darling!" Agatha rushed over to Ricky, leaping into his arms and pulling him into a deep, passionate kiss.


    "You''ve got to be kidding me," Rachael deadpanned, her expression a mix of disbelief and annoyance and Chores, sensing her frustration, gently patted her shoulder.


    "You get used to it, eventually." Chores said, shaking his head in amusement as he walked over to Ricky to congratulate him.


    "It''s confusing how he gathers so much strength without notice, but oddly intriguing," Barko said, giving a gentle pat on Rachael''s leg before joining Chores.


    "Yes, well, only worthy of being my descendant." Percival chimed in from the side, raising his ghostly nose into the air.


    "Here, here." Alexander cheered for Ricky though the man shivered, looking back at the gerbil who was already planning how to implement this into his training.


    *Sigh*


    "Dammit."


    1 year later,


    [Name: John Constantine Luciano (Variant)


    Mother: Agatha Harkness


    Grade: S


    Template: John Constantine


    Template Description: John Constantine is a complex and enigmatic character from DC Comics, primarily featured in the Hellblazer series. He is a British occult detective, con man, and magician known for his cunning, wit, and morally ambiguous nature.


    Description: John''s magical abilities have inherited more from you than from his mother, Agatha. Through your lineage, he has developed a unique manifestation of your core power. However, this ability stands alone; he exhibits no traits of being a warlock, suggesting that his magic is distinctly rooted in your legacy.


    Innate Abilities:


    Late Bloomer: John''s magical abilities will bloom later on in his life rather than appear early in his life.


    Ethereal Nexus Mana Circuit: A different version of the users core, the is skill is a potent but accessible skill that enables the user to connect with and harness magical energies through an internal network of mana pathways within their body. These circuits, when developed and refined, allow the practitioner to channel and amplify their magical abilities with greater control and efficiency.


    Properties:


    Arcane Sensitivity: The user becomes more attuned to the ambient magical energies in their environment, gaining a basic understanding of different magical disciplines. This sensitivity allows for quicker learning and adaptation to various forms of magic.


    Mana Storage: The mana circuits within the user''s body absorb and store ambient magical energies. The user can tap into this internal reserve to enhance their spells and magical abilities, providing a boost when needed. Elemental Alignment: The mana circuits adapt to the user''s natural magical inclinations, enhancing their affinity with specific elements such as fire, water, earth, or air. This alignment strengthens spells of the chosen element.


    Enhanced Spells: Spells cast using the mana circuits are slightly more powerful, with increased range and accuracy. The user''s magical gestures and incantations become more refined, leading to improved spellcasting efficiency.


    Dimensional Glimmer: By focusing their mana circuits, the user can temporarily shift their presence, allowing for brief moments of intangibility or evasive maneuvers. This ability is limited and requires significant concentration.


    Innate Skills:


    Occultism: John has an innate skill with all things related to the occult which might lead to potential future problems.


    Demonology: Constantine has a unique affinity with knowledge of demons, including their summoning, binding, and banishing.


    Necromancy Voice: He can communicate with spirits and the dead, often seeking information or assistance from beyond the grave.


    Divination: John uses various methods of divination to foresee future events or uncover hidden truths, including scrying, tarot reading, and other occult practices.


    Alchemy: Constantine possesses some knowledge of alchemical processes, allowing him to create potions and perform transmutations.


    Element Control: Much like his father, he is gifted with the ability to easily wield the elements.


    Indomitable Will: the ability of some characters to control their impulses and emotions in order to make their choice clear. Characters with this skill have the internal strength to overcome fear and resist mind control.


    Singing: John has an innate singing ability that if trained properly, could turn into a really valuable skill.]


    [Ability Gained: Ethereal Nexus Mana Circuit-]


    *Ding*


    [The ability Ethereal Nexus Mana Circuit has resonated with the users Ethereal Nexus Mana Core to form the Nexus Pathway]


    Ethereal Nexus Pathway: The brilliant combination that merges the heart of the Ethereal Nexus Mana core, with its counterpart Ethereal Nexus Mana Circuit. With the mana generated and stored within the core, the magic is easily distributed through the pathways infused into the users body which allows for easier and more efficient use of the arcane arts.


    Arcane Sensitivity: The user becomes exceptionally attuned to ambient magical energies in their environment. This heightened sensitivity grants an innate understanding of various magical disciplines in the area and easier understanding of teachings, allowing for rapid learning and adaptation to different forms of magic.


    Mana Confluence: The Aetherial Mana Circuit acts as a focal point for mana, combining with the user''s heart and absorbing ambient magical energies. This stored mana can be tapped into at will, significantly amplifying the user''s magical abilities when needed.


    Elemental Affinity: The circuits adapt to the user''s natural magical inclinations, enhancing their affinity with specific elements such as fire, water, earth, or air. This alignment strengthens spells of the chosen element, making them more potent and effective.


    Augmented Spells: Spells cast using the Aetherial Nexus Pathway are significantly more powerful, with increased range, accuracy, and precision. The user''s magical gestures and incantations are refined, leading to superior spellcasting efficiency.


    Dimensional Glimmer: By focusing their entire magic through the Nexus Pathway, the user can briefly shift their presence, allowing for moments of intangibility or evasive maneuvers. This ability requires significant concentration but provides a crucial advantage in critical situations.


    Riftwalker''s Veil: Channeling the power of the Nexus Mana Core, the user can move between dimensions they''ve been before for strategic maneuvers or to escape dire situations. This ability enhances the user''s mobility and tactical options.


    It was year two of Ricky''s exile, and during this time, Agatha dedicated herself to teaching him the intricate art of imparting spells into his grimoire.


    At first, the process weirded him out; the requirement to use his own blood to scribe the spell''s requirements onto the pages felt oddly macabre.


    Despite the initial revulsion, Ricky gradually grew accustomed to the ritual as he learned to write down the spells with a careful hand, channeling his magic into the words as they flowed onto the page, transforming his intentions into tangible magic.


    With each new incantation, he found himself creating spells from thin air, the gruesome method fading into the background as the thrill of mastery took center stage.


    Ricky had not only dedicated himself to rigorous training during the day but had also been hard at work during the night, resulting in the birth of another child with Agatha.


    This new addition had sparked a surge of strength within him, pushing his abilities to new heights.


    Now, he wielded his grimoire with ease while skillfully using either his bow or sword during training sessions with Alexander and Percival.


    Over this year of strict weaponry training, Ricky developed an absolute passion for archery, finding joy in the precision and elegance of each shot.


    In contrast, he grew to despise the ebony blade, its weight and lethargy contrasting sharply with the fluid grace of his bow.


    Each practice session became a testament to his evolving preferences, marking a significant turning point in his journey as a warlock and warrior.


    In fact, Ricky had come to loathe the ebony blade. As his strength increased, so did his ability to resonate with the weapon, unlocking not just its hidden power but also its voice.


    This connection allowed him to communicate with the blade, but it came with a significant drawback: they shared a mutual disdain for one another, fueled by the constant torment they inflicted on each other.


    For Ricky, he was growing to hate the blade to his very core as the ebony blade didn''t just whisper dark suggestions; it actively sought to warp his mind and emotions, pushing him toward his most primal urges.


    Each time he fought against its influence, he felt the blade amplify his negative traits, stoking the flames of his bloodthirst and urging him to lose control.


    It was a constant battle against an unseen foe that knew exactly how to exploit his weaknesses.


    In turn, the ebony blade harbored a deep-seated resentment toward Ricky as it loathed him not just for rejecting its seductive power time and time again, but for the way he banished it to the confines of his inventory for a ''timeout'' of sorts, whenever he felt overwhelmed by its malevolent whispers.


    This humiliation only fueled its animosity, creating a vicious cycle of hatred between them.


    Ricky''s struggle for autonomy was matched only by the blade''s relentless desire to dominate him, each encounter a reminder of the fraught relationship that bound them together.


    The ebony blade had evolved into Ricky''s most vocal adversary, taking on the role of his biggest critic. It nagged at him incessantly, reminiscent of Percival but with a sharper edge.


    While Percival offered gentle guidance, the blade resorted to passive-aggressive insults, constantly reminding Ricky of its purpose: to be the dark side that protects the light.


    Traditionally, Percival''s descendants were all noble and chivalrous, embodying ideals of heroism and honor.


    This lineage brought the blade a twisted sense of joy as it relished the opportunity to corrupt their virtuous spirits.


    But Ricky was different, a notorious libertine who thrived in the shadows and reveled in debauchery.


    He had little regard for the notions of public good or nobility, making him an unwitting challenge for the blade.


    The ebony blade had become utterly baffled by Ricky''s shameless behavior, continuously seeking to highlight his flaws and misdeeds.


    Each sarcastic comment it delivered only served to irritate Ricky further, igniting a volatile exchange that spiraled into a toxic rivalry.


    Instead of pushing him to improve, the blade''s relentless criticism only fueled Ricky''s resentment, leading him to neglect his swordsmanship even more.


    As their bond intensified, so did the experiences it dredged up from his subconscious, exposing him to painful and unwanted recollections of past users.


    However, Ricky didn''t merely see these memories; he felt every single emotion and physical sensation that accompanied them.


    Each recollection washed over him like a tide, pulling him into a whirlwind of grief, regret, and anger.


    "Sheriff Wyatt, what have you done?" The man with six bands on each arm sounded, his voice barely above a whisper as he took in the horrifying scene before him.


    In this small Texas town, nestled among the arid landscapes and the echoes of a bygone cowboy era, a sinister scene unfolded. Sheriff Wyatt, once the emblem of law and order, now lay at the center of chaos that had ripped the very soul from this community. The sun cast a harsh light over the devastation, illuminating the horror that had transpired.


    Blood smeared across the walls like a grotesque work of art, splattering in chaotic patterns that told a tale of desperation and violence.


    The scent of iron hung heavy in the air, mixing with the dust and heat of the day.


    Women and children lay torn apart, their bodies brutally dismembered, as if some monstrous force had unleashed its fury upon the innocent.


    The men who had attempted to protect their families were no better off.


    Their bodies were nothing more than puddles of flesh, unrecognizable from the violence inflicted upon them.


    Faces that had once held determination and bravery were now reduced to grotesque masks of terror, eyes wide open in their final moments of agony, mouths frozen in silent screams.


    At the center of this horror stood a man clad in a fusion of cowboy and knight attire, a juxtaposition that spoke of lost honor and desperate valor.


    He cradled a woman in his arms, her once-vibrant form now lifeless, the life drained from her in an instant.


    Tears streamed down his face, each drop mingling with the blood on his hands, a futile attempt to wash away the horror of the moment.


    His wails echoed through the remnants of the town, a heart-wrenching sound that pierced the stillness, reverberating off the walls like a ghostly lament.


    As his sorrow poured forth, a red aura pulsed around him, a dark manifestation of grief and rage that seemed to pulse in rhythm with his shattered heart.


    It twisted and danced in the air, a swirling vortex of despair that surrounded him, reflecting the chaos within.


    "I-It wasn''t supposed to happen, I wasn''t supposed to lose myself," Sheriff Wyatt stammered, his voice choking with sorrow as he looked up at the man standing before him.


    This was a side of Wyatt he had never witnessed, a broken man, stripped of his usual bravado and authority, revealing the deep vulnerability buried beneath the surface.


    "I was supposed to protect them all." Sheriff Wyatt continued, his grip tightening around the lifeless body in his arms.


    He clenched his teeth, as if willing the pain to fade, but it only intensified, a raw ache that gnawed at his heart.


    More tears streamed down his cheeks, mingling with the blood on his hands, a stark contrast to the uniform he wore, a uniform that once symbolized hope and justice, now tainted by his complete failure and utter despair.


    He gazed at the woman, her features forever frozen in a peaceful expression that belied the horror surrounding them.


    Memories flooded his mind: her laughter, the way her eyes sparkled in the sunlight, the warmth of her embrace.


    Now, all that remained was the cold weight of her body, a painful reminder of his inability to save her.


    "B-But I-I failed." Sheriff Wyatt''s head hung low, his once-proud stature now crumpled beneath the weight of his grief.


    His eyes, shimmering with a haunting red hue, betrayed the turmoil raging within him as the sword at his side whispered vile words, each syllable dripping with contempt.


    ''This is who you are.''


    ''Killer.''


    ''How could you have stopped something that was already preordained?''


    ''Murderer.''


    The ebony blade flooded Sheriff Wyatt''s mind with a torrent of hateful words, each one a sharp dagger twisting deeper into his psyche.


    The voice was a relentless tide, surging through his thoughts and trying to drown out any flicker of hope or rationality.


    "Ha, just get it over with, Xu," Sheriff Wyatt spat, the name of the blade falling from his lips like a curse.


    With a sudden, violent motion, he hurled the sword to the side, its blade clattering against the ground, echoing in the silence of the devastated town.


    "Sheriff Wyatt, the High Table sends its regards."


    The words cut through the heavy air like a knife, a prelude to the chaos that was about to erupt.


    Xu, standing tall and ominous, suddenly thrust his arms forward with deadly precision.


    The six rings shot from his hands, slicing through the stillness, propelled by an unseen force, racing toward the sheriff at unheard speeds.


    Time seemed to slow for Wyatt as he closed his eyes, resignation washing over him.


    He could feel the weight of the impending doom bearing down on him, a crushing reminder of his failures and the blood that stained his hands.


    *GASP*


    "DAMMIT!" Ricky yelled, the frustration surging through him like a wildfire as he hurled the blade aside.


    ''YOU DARE THROW MY NOBLE BEING!'' The Ebony Blade screeched in his mind, its voice a twisted blend of outrage and disdain as Ricky clenched his jaw, the shrill sound grating against his nerves.


    "How can I f*cking sleep when you''re always in my goddamn head? I swear to God, I''m going to melt you down into crappy keychains!" Ricky shouted, his frustration boiling over as he kicked the blade again.


    The Ebony Blade vibrated violently in response, the sound of its rage echoing in his mind like a twisted symphony.


    On the sidelines, Percival watched with a troubled expression, concern etched across his features.


    Ricky was about to reach his breaking point as the mind-altering side effects of the ebony blade had become too much to bear, pushing him to the edge of sanity.


    Each time he wielded it, he felt as if he were teetering on the brink of a dark abyss, losing fragments of himself to its insidious whispers.


    No matter how many skills he had honed to bolster his willpower and regulate his emotions, they all crumbled like brittle leaves in a storm whenever the blade was drawn into his berserk state.


    Ricky had fought tooth and nail to cultivate his mental resilience, only to have it unraveled by this cursed weapon that thrived on his negativity that pulled from deep within in


    It was maddening; he felt like a puppet, strings pulled taut by a malevolent force, and no amount of practice or training could save him from the blade''s relentless manipulation whenever he went into his berserk state.


    "It seems I must prolong my stay a while longer." Percival admitted, his eyes drifting from the retreating figure of Ricky to the ominous sword that lay abandoned at his feet.


    The truth behind Percival''s lingering presence was more profound than mere guidance.


    Percival had been destined to depart once the Black Knight and the ebony blade forged their connection at the original ceremony.


    However, despite that fateful bond being established, a rift had only widened between them, one that gnawed at Percival''s conscience and tethered him to this realm.


    As he watched Ricky grapple with the overwhelming influence of the sword, it became painfully clear that the young warrior was spiraling further into conflict.


    The bond that should have united them instead became a source of strife, with Ricky''s own negative personality wrestling against the blade''s dark whispers and the insidious pull of its power.


    However, Percival began to realize that the deeper Ricky delved into his connection with the ebony blade, the more he resisted wielding its formidable power.


    Each interaction with the sword seemed to sap his desire to use it, creating a paradox that both intrigued and troubled the knight.


    This growing aversion left Percival in a precarious position as he knew that the ebony blade, if left unchecked, could easily fall into the hands of Morgana, a fate that could spell disaster not only for Ricky but for the entire realm.


    Morgana''s insatiable hunger for power would drive her to exploit the sword''s dark capabilities, unleashing chaos and devastation.


    Thus, Percival faced a conundrum: he needed to support Ricky in navigating his tumultuous relationship with the blade while also ensuring that it remained beyond Morgana''s reach.


    Ricky had become skilled enough to fend off mental attacks even in his sleep, a testament to his growing strength.


    Yet, Percival harbored a troubling suspicion: if Morgana ever approached Ricky with the seductive offer to relieve him of the ebony blade, his descendant would likely leap at the chance after his bout with Dracula was finished.


    At this moment, Ricky wasn''t about to part with the ebony blade; it was an essential tool in his quest to defeat Dracula.


    The power it wielded and the strength it granted him were invaluable assets in the battle ahead and yet, beneath that determination lay a troubling uncertainty for Percival.


    What haunted him was the thought of what might happen after the dust settled and Dracula was vanquished.


    Would Ricky still possess the same resolve to keep the blade by his side once its primary purpose had been fulfilled?


    The ebony blade was a double-edged sword, its power could just as easily corrupt as it could empower.


    Ricky''s relationship with the weapon was fraught with tension, and Percival feared that the more they fought together, the more Ricky might grow weary of its burdensome influence.


    Secondly, Percival harbored deep reservations about leaving Ricky alone, especially given the young man''s tendency to act irresponsibly with items that didn''t align with his whims.


    In the past, Percival had witnessed Ricky''s impulsive nature lead to precious artifacts being carelessly stored away or even discarded entirely.


    Although this behavior was slowly changing it still left Percival in a precarious position, torn between duty and concern.


    Ricky needed to embrace his role as the Black Knight; the world depended on him embodying that legacy.


    As the last of Percival''s bloodline, Ricky was not just a descendant but a critical link in a lineage that bore the weight of destiny.


    Although Percival had come to realize that Zatanna was not only his daughter but also part of his bloodline, time was a luxury the world could no longer afford.


    The ominous signs of war were becoming more pronounced, and he sensed that the days of peace were dwindling rapidly.


    Each passing moment brought them closer to a confrontation that could shatter everything they held dear.


    Zatanna, still a child, would need years to mature and hone her abilities before she could take on the mantle of responsibility that awaited her.


    But with the threat looming larger on the horizon, Percival understood that waiting 15 to 18 years for her to rise was not an option, leaving all his eggs in Ricky''s basket.


    The next day,


    "Dammit, give me a second." Ricky held his head, slamming the blade into the dirt and walking over to catch a breather.


    After six grueling hours of practicing swordsmanship, Ricky''s body had grown weary, but it was his mind that felt on the verge of exploding.


    "Percival?" Alexander hurriedly approached the floating ghostly figure, catching sight of Ricky storming away from the training grounds, his resolve evident in every step.


    Over time, Ricky''s skillset has evolved, with his proficiencies now reaching impressive levels in the following areas:


    (Epic Skill) Advanced Archery: the user has embraced the art of archery, representing the peak of skill and precision with a bow and arrow. This advanced skill is the culmination of rigorous training, discipline, and an innate connection to the weapon. Archers with this ability are unparalleled marksmen, capable of extraordinary feats that transcend ordinary archery.


    (Epic Skill) Advanced Swordsmanship: represents a higher level of proficiency in the art of wielding a sword, surpassing the basics and moving towards more advanced techniques. This epic skill is acquired through dedicated practice and experience, showcasing a complete grasp of fundamental and intermediate sword fighting methods. Individuals with this skill are adept in various aspects of sword combat and demonstrate enhanced control, precision, and effectiveness in battle.


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Spearmanship: signifies an advanced level of proficiency in the art of wielding a spear. This rare skill is developed through extensive training and practice, allowing the wielder to execute precise and effective techniques. Individuals with this skill demonstrate exceptional control, versatility, and tactical understanding, making them formidable opponents in combat.


    (Rare Skill) Proficient Hand-to-Hand Combat: signifies a high level of proficiency in unarmed fighting techniques. This rare skill is developed through rigorous training and practical experience, allowing the practitioner to execute precise and effective strikes, grapples, and defensive maneuvers. Individuals with this skill demonstrate exceptional control, strength, and tactical understanding, making them formidable opponents in close-quarters combat.


    *Sigh*


    "It appears my stay has been extended," Percival sighed, a hint of frustration in his voice as he considered how to bridge the growing rift between the Ebony Blade and Ricky.


    "Pardon me, Alexander, I must speak with young Ricky." Percival faded from Alexander''s sight, reappearing directly in Ricky''s path as he strode away.


    "Give me a second, just a little more time so that headache goes away." Ricky waved off Percival, half expecting his ancestors constant nagging over the years.


    Though Percival was a legendary swordsman, his ghostly form seemed to lack any concept of an ''off switch''. Ricky''s patience had worn thin, Percival''s relentless presence meant that every moment together became an endless loop of criticism and nagging.


    It wasn''t that Ricky minded the criticism; he understood that improvement required acknowledging and addressing his faults.


    For example with Alexander, Ricky felt like he could catch a break as Alexander knew when to set aside his instructor role, taking time to simply chat or even play a casual game of Go Fish.


    But with Percival, there was no reprieve and Teaching mode was always on, 24/7, with the ghostly knight holding Ricky to an impossibly high standard at all times.


    Every misstep, every slight flaw, was met with a pointed critique or a stern lecture.


    Percival''s comments weren''t malicious, they were laser-focused, dissecting Ricky''s every movement, reminding him of the nuances of technique, balance, and discipline.


    Yet, this endless stream of scrutiny wore on Ricky, making him feel like he could never catch his breath.


    Even outside of training, Percival''s lessons continued, hovering like a specter over every attempt Ricky made to relax.


    Whether he was eating, resting, or even trying to distract himself with a few minutes of solitude, Percival would materialize to offer advice, corrections, or reminders of the knightly virtues.


    It was as if the ghost had no concept of rest, let alone the idea that Ricky might need a moment to simply be himself.


    Every moment felt like an opportunity for Percival to chime in with his relentless critique.


    Ricky would wake up to find Percival already there, pointing out that he''d overslept or hadn''t prepared for the day with sufficient vigor.


    He''d sit down to eat, only for Percival to launch into a lecture on table manners and knightly etiquette.


    Training was, of course, a barrage of feedback on his improper form, his stance, his grip, every tiny misalignment analyzed in exhaustive detail.


    Even at night, as Ricky crawled into bed, exhausted and craving a moment of peace, Percival would reappear, going over everything he''d done wrong that day with almost supernatural persistence.


    It was like being stuck in a constant, suffocating loop as no matter where Ricky went or what he did, Percival''s unwavering ''teacher mode'' was always there, following him like a shadow he couldn''t shake.


    This relentless approach clashed painfully with Ricky''s personality, eroding any goodwill he might have felt toward his spectral teacher.


    Where Ricky valued moments of independence and space to find his own way, Percival''s nonstop criticism only made him feel stifled, judged, and increasingly resentful.


    "I will leave you alone on two conditions," Percival''s sudden statement made Ricky freeze mid-step.


    "What, really?" Ricky shot to his feet, half-expecting that this ghost would haunt him for all eternity.


    "If you can prove to me that you can uphold these conditions." Percival continued, his voice solemn.


    "Then I will leave you in peace and return to the heavens, at least until I am called upon to guide the next Black Knight-"


    "Wait, wait, wait, let me get this straight." Ricky replied, struggling to hold back a laugh.


    "You choose to stay here of your own free will, but now you expect me to agree to two mystery conditions just because you''re the most annoying ghost I''ve ever met?" Ricky leaned back in his seat, looking at Percival who pursed his lips.


    "Like I get you''re teaching my swordsmanship and don''t get me wrong, I''m thankful, but go f*ck yourself." Ricky laughed at this ghost, covering his face since it had been a while since he had laughed this hard.


    It felt surreal, almost like he''d stepped into some twisted version of reality where Percival actually thought Ricky would be grateful for the offer.


    "Are you done?" Percival inquired, seeing Ricky let out his laughter before the man wiped the sweat from his forehead.


    "Yeah, lay your conditions on me." Ricky shook his head, spreading his arms in exasperation, wanting nothing more than to rid himself of this ever-present ghost.


    "Number one, you need to be the Black Knight and I will not relent on this." Percival''s insistence soured Ricky''s expression.


    "And you HAVE to be the Black Knight until you have a child to take up the mantle." Percival held up his second finger as Ricky paused, his defiance wavering as he began to mull over the weight of these demands.


    At first, Ricky was thrilled at the prospect of becoming the Black Knight; the excitement coursed through him like electricity at all the power and notoriety he held.


    The notoriety that came with the title was intoxicating, and the perks were undeniably appealing.


    Yet the main reason he had sought the mantle in the first place was to earn respect within the church.


    Now, having already made a name for himself, Ricky''s focus had shifted as he craved the strength of the blade not to fulfill the legacy of the Black Knight but to vanquish Dracula.


    Yet, with each passing day, he found himself only caring about the power instead of the position that the Black Knight held.


    In fact, Ricky didn''t see any need to maintain the Black Knight facade once he returned to New York.


    The title held little significance in New York, as it was primarily relevant in parts of Europe.


    To Ricky, the true value lay in the ebony blade itself, not in the legacy of the Black Knight as he saw the sword as a powerful weapon, far more meaningful than the title it carried.


    Percival, however, could see the writing on the wall and recognized that once Ricky achieved his goals, he would likely abandon his duties, leaving the legacy of the original Black Knight in a precarious position.


    "Honestly, old man, why should I be the Black Knight?" Ricky crossed his arms and leaned back, fixing his gaze on Percival.


    "What''s so special about being a crazed, bloodthirsty knight? I get that it''s a symbol, but why should I have to suffer under your stupid oath of chivalry?"


    Before Percival could respond, Ricky suddenly realized for the first time that he had something that this unmaterialistic ghost wanted.


    It was then a sly smile formed on his face, knowing that for the first time in their ancestor descendent relationship, he actually had the upper hand.


    "You know what? I''ll take on the role of the Black Knight, but only on two of my own conditions." Ricky grabbed hold of the conversation, flipping it onto a negation as a spark of inspiration flickered in his mind, prompting Percival to raise an eyebrow in curiosity.


    "And those are?"


    "One, I''m done being just a regular symbol and wearing this helmet. After I kill Dracula, I''m taking it off and revealing to the world that I, Ricky Luciano, am the Black Knight." Ricky thumped his chest, defying the tradition of the Black Knight who would nobly cast aside their identity to embrace the persona.


    In truth, Ricky pondered the role and realized he didn''t want the Black Knight to dictate his actions. Instead, he envisioned the title as a shadow, trailing behind him as he forged his own path.


    Ricky aimed to craft the narrative of his life for future gain, making it unmistakably clear that he was the Black Knight but that wasn''t all he was.


    Percival frowned, recognizing the irony as the essence of the Black Knight was to embody chivalry and throw away one''s identity for the greater good, a principle that Ricky seemed unwilling to uphold.


    "And the second?"


    "I want a position within the church, not just as a knight, but as an honorable member among the priests." Ricky boldly proclaimed and Percival was taken aback, surprised by the audacity of his request, knowing full well how impossible it was.


    "You can''t be a knight and hold a position within the priesthood at the same time; the structure is set up in such a way that-


    "Well, I''m sure the Pope can make an exception," Ricky said with a confident smile, fully aware that Percival had the connections to make it happen.


    "Listen, if you want me to agree to your conditions, you''ll have to meet mine. It''s a give-and-take situation." Ricky, with a firm pat on his chest, turned and walked away, leaving no room for Percival to respond.


    "Also, while you''re there, do me a favor and tell a priest named Sebastian that Abraham has died," Ricky suddenly added, realizing that Abraham''s death could still be unknown to the church.


    He knew he couldn''t appear at the Vatican just yet, but he wanted Percival to relay the message, just in case Sebastian hadn''t heard the news and as a friend, he deserved to know.


    Walking into the room he had shared with Agatha, she was holding baby John in her arms after nursing him to sleep while Zatanna played with Garfield''s ears.


    "Do you see what''s happening to me?" Garfield asked with a sigh towards the reader, pushing Zatanna away only for her to giggle and crawl back to him.


    The cat was distinctly disgruntled at its new role, which had devolved into little more than a glorified training assistant.


    Being used to help Ricky harness more magic in his warlock training while being a babysitter in his downtime so that the two could mingle with one another.


    "Look, paw!" Garfield raised his paw, immediately capturing Zatanna''s attention as she lunged to grab it, only for him to lift it out of her reach.


    "What a sucker-" Garfield chuckled, amused at tricking the little girl, whose eyes began to well up with tears.


    "Kya!" Zatanna abruptly used her magic to yank Garfield forward, grabbing his paw and sending the cat tumbling flat on his face.


    *Sigh*


    "What has my life become?" Garfield whined, face planting into the rug, feeling more like Zatanna''s plaything than the great cosmic cat.


    Ricky flopped face-first onto the bed, where Agatha side-eyed him as she brushed John''s little blond hair, which was strikingly complemented by Ricky''s signature green eyes.


    "Here, darling." Agatha pulled out a red vial, handing it to Ricky who looked at it for a moment before downing it fast.


    Over the past year, Ricky, now recognized as a warlock, had begun to fully embrace the support of the coven and its vast resources.


    Along with the multitude of spells embedded in his grimoire thanks to Agatha, he also gained access to an array of potent elixirs.


    Witches and warlocks are inherently gifted with significant magical power, but the downside is their reliance on grimoires and the limitations of their often frail bodies.


    To counteract these weaknesses, they had spent centuries developing elixirs designed to enhance their physical strength, all culminating in a growth elixir.


    This particular potion was crucial during a witch or warlock''s growth period, dramatically fortifying the body.


    However, Ricky was an anomaly and already blessed with a naturally strong constitution, the elixir seemed to amplify his abilities even further, pushing his limits beyond what anyone had anticipated.


    Strength: 43¡ú47 (Lower realm of Superhuman strength)


    Stamina: 41¡ú49 (Lower realm of Superhuman.)


    Vitality: 46¡ú55 (Middle realm of Superhuman.)


    Agility: 37¡ú42(Lower realm of Superhuman)


    Dexterity: 40¡ú44(Lower realm of Superhuman strength)


    Intelligence: 27¡ú30 (Peak adult male)


    Mana: 65¡ú72 (Middle realm of Superhuman.)


    Charm: 38¡ú40 (Your charm has finally reached superhuman levels)


    Appearance: 38¡ú40 (A superhuman appearance that transcends humans.)


    "Darling, what is the matter?" Agatha asked curiously, usually seeing Ricky tired after training with ALexander and Percival rather than frustrated.


    "It''s that godforsaken sword again," Ricky sighed as he spotted Zatanna crawling toward him. He scooped her up, holding her aloft in the air.


    As she felt the rush of being lifted, Zatanna flapped her tiny limbs excitedly, while Garfield looked up at the author with a relieved sigh.


    "Quick, just kill me off, I can''t do this anymore!" Garfield whined, lamenting his small responsibilities as he cried out to the author for mercy.


    "Again?" Agatha asked, sitting up and gently placing the previously crying John in his cradle a short distance away before walking over to Garfield.


    "Darling, why don''t you focus on your bow? You''re such an amazing archer." Agatha suggested, trying to find a solution as she sat beside him, stroking his sleek black hair.


    "I want to, but it''s a sword that literally cuts through anything. I''d be an idiot to do something like throw it away or not put it into my fighting style." Ricky sighed, placing Zatanna on one of his feet, lifting her higher into the air as she began to kick her limbs playfully, as if she were swimming.


    "Besides, I just made a deal with Percival. He wants me to be the Black Knight until one of my kids is old enough to take my place-"


    *Smack*


    "Darling, no. Our babies will not use that cursed sword." Agatha lightly smacked his forehead, causing him to frown as she then took Zatanna from him, holding her close.


    "But-"


    "Ricky." Agatha squinted her eyes making Ricky sigh but nod, placing Zatanna over to the side with Garfield once more.


    "Oh god, please, not the ears-ow!" Garfield looked up, only to see the horrid baby reach for his ears then tug down.


    "What was the deal?" Agatha asked, gently parting some strands of hair that had fallen into his face.


    "I''ll get an honorary position within the church, I get to tell the world I''m the Black Knight, and Percival leaves. But I have to actually be the Black Knight and not throw it away once I get what I want." Ricky replied promptly, mulling over his conditions as Agatha frowned at his words.


    "Darling, do you really think it''s a good idea to reveal to the world that you''re the Black Knight?" Agatha asked worriedly, knowing it would essentially put a target on his back.


    "I''ll only do it if I manage to kill Dracula. Worst-case scenario, if I fail, I''ll have an honorary position in the church. That way, if anything happens to me, the Vatican will take care of you and the kids," Ricky said, raising his hand to caress her cheek and Agatha smiled, leaning down to plant a soft kiss on his forehead.


    "You''ve really grown as a man." Agatha warmly smiled at him as Ricky looked surprised.


    "You think?" Ricky asked, unbeknownst to his own development of character as it was slow that it was hardly recognizable.


    "Of course, normally you''d think something like ''I''ll get more stuff and anything else doesn''t matter'' but instead, you thought of us as well. You''ve really grown." Agatha chuckled, and Ricky didn''t realize it until she pointed it out.


    "I''m proud of you," Agatha said, kissing him once more before taking Zatanna and walking her to the room next to hers.


    "That''s why you''ll get a treat~" Agatha cooed, instantly stirring something within Ricky as she lowered her head as Ricky smiled while putting his hands behind his head.


    "Nice."


    Later that night,


    In the dead of midnight, as the full moon cast its glow over the holy Vatican, Pope Pius sat wide awake in his chambers.


    "Your Holiness," Percival phased through the walls, appearing before the Pope, who slowly stood up in surprise.


    "I was wondering when I''d see you again, Sir Percival," Pope Pius said warmly, smiling as he sat up, lighting a nearby candle and walking over to a modest table.


    "How has the church fared in the Black Knight''s absence?" Percival inquired, hovering before sitting in the chair across from him.


    "It has been quite troublesome. It seems Ricky has made significant progress, especially since Dracula has taken extreme measures to find him." Pope Pius replied, gazing into the flickering flame of the candle as the screams of the fallen echoed in his mind.


    "The night raids have intensified lately. Even after learning that we are not harboring him, Dracula is insistent on tearing apart every holy site and targeting any holy member in his efforts to find him." Pope Pius gazed up at Percival, who wore a troubled expression, balling his fist.


    "But, with such drastic measures, he must be desperate so the ends justify the means." Pope Pius released his fist, knowing that Dracula must be affected in some way to make him go to such lengths.


    "How has the new Black Knight progressed?" Pope Pius asked, only for Percival to rub his forehead in frustration.


    "Your Holiness, my descendant has reached a point where he has yet to fully accept the ebony blade as his companion," Percival revealed, laying bare the troubling situation and Pope Pius''s expression mirrored Percival''s concern.


    "I''m afraid that once my descendant vanquishes Dracula, he will abandon his position as the Black Knight and cast aside all the duties that come with upholding its symbol." Percival continued, remarking his troubles with Ricky.


    "I see."


    Upon hearing this, Pope Pius felt an increasing sense of dread and not only did he have to contend with Dracula''s supernatural army at night, but also the Nazis under Hitler during the day.


    The regime had been applying relentless pressure on the Vatican to recognize their beliefs and sanction a holy war, claiming it was God''s will.


    In the depths of his mind, Pope Pius understood that following the whims of the Nazis and invoking God''s will in such a manner would only lead to unbridled chaos and bloodshed that would end the church as he knew it.


    However, there was a closely guarded secret that had contributed to the Vatican''s recent decline, prompting Pope Pius to relent.


    "Sir Percival, every force we have on the side of the church is needed at this moment to fend off the rising threats," Pope Pius revealed, only for Percival to raise an eyebrow at this.


    "Your Holiness, is something the matter? The church has never needed all its forces; it has always had the direct support of God-"


    "God has disappeared." Pope Pius revealed, shocking Percival, who let out a silent breath.


    "I have had many encounters with the Council of Faith, and the archangels are maintaining Heaven''s order, but we do not have the direct support of His Holiness now." Pope Pius emphasized the urgency of the situation as Percival fell silent.


    "Whatever the Black Knight desires and is within my power, I shall grant it." Pope Pius said, gazing up at Percival, who wore a stern expression before nodding.


    "Then my descendant seeks an honorary position within the Church and support from the Vatican when he reveals himself to the world." Percival laid out the conditions, and Pope Pius, recognizing the impossibility of the request yet feeling he had no choice, reluctantly relented.


    "If your descendant promises to wield the sword and be the Black Knight, I will agree to your conditions."


    With this agreement, Percival and Pope Pius nodded, Percival then remembering one more thing.


    "And may I have the whereabouts of Father Sebastion, I have a message for him?"


    Meanwhile outside the vatican,


    Right now, Father Sebastian was handing out bread to the needy, his warm smile radiating kindness that seemed to know no bounds.


    As he interacted with each person, offering both sustenance and a prayer, Percival watched from a distance, choosing not to disrupt the holy man''s efforts.


    He let Father Sebastian finish distributing the bread and sharing moments of grace before retreating to pack up.


    It was only when the father reentered the Vatican that Percival appeared before him, catching Father Sebastian off guard.


    "A-Ah, Sir Percival, it is an honor to be in your presence." Father Sebastion bowed graciously, Percival showing a respectful expression.


    "Father-" Percival''s heartfelt expression suddenly shook Father Sebastian to his very core.


    The weight of those two syllables carried an unmistakable heaviness, a premonition that something was profoundly wrong before Father Sebastian lowered his head.


    "H-He didn''t make it, did he?" Father Sebastion seemingly read the thoughts of the ghost who merely closed his mouth, nodding.


    "I-I see." Father Sebastian was taken aback, in shock, walking to the side and sitting down.


    "May I ask how?" Father Sebastian showed a warm smile, knowing deep down that Abraham was already gone but hoping he was merely pretending.


    "Honorably, he sacrificed himself so that my descendant could flee." Percival''s words brought tears to Father Seabstian''s eyes, rubbing them away gently.


    *Sniff*


    "They always told me I was a fool for befriending that ''demon,'' saying Abraham was nothing more than an old drunkard." Father Sebastian spoke from the heart, his voice laced with a mix of sorrow and defiance as Percival listened intently.


    "They said his life was a waste, that spending time with him would only tarnish my standing." Father Sebastian suddenly stood, gazing up into the blue sky, his expression reflecting the warmth of cherished memories.


    "But it warms my heart that they were all wrong since in the end, that so-called selfish drunkard, the stain of the Vatican-" Father Sebastian paused, his heart swelling with bittersweet pride as he turned away, walking back toward the church, the sun casting a golden glow around him.


    "Died selflessly for another."


    Father Sebastian wasn''t sad that Abraham died, but happy that he got to meet Abraham.


    His steps echoed through the halls of the church, each sounding a reminder of the man who was often labeled a horrible person by others, yet to him, Abraham was his best friend.


    As Father Sebastian glanced at the cross to the side, memories began to surface, moments of laughter and shared struggles, of conversations that transcended judgment and societal labels.


    The warmth of their friendship enveloped him, bringing a bittersweet smile to his lips as he remembered the man behind the facade, the one who had shown him the true meaning of compassion and acceptance.


    "Oh, come on, Seb, it doesn''t make sense." Abraham took a bite of his apple, tapping the cross next to him as Father Sebastian scrubbed the floors nearby.


    "Why would Jesus just let himself die? Who does that?" Abraham''s brow furrowed, struggling to grasp the concept as Father Sebastian continued his task.


    "I don''t think one can truly understand selfless sacrifice without being given the opportunity," Father Sebastian replied, a gentle smile spreading across his face as he cleaned until the floor reflected that warmth.


    "I believe that one day, you''ll find yourself in a situation like that, and you''ll see why." Father Sebastian added, chuckling lightly and Abraham scoffed, leaning back with a mix of disbelief and amusement.


    "Seb, that''s like telling me to go die-"


    "Well, you might not have to be told if you step on these clean floors with those muddy boots." Father Sebastian stood up, grabbing the bucket as Abraham flinched, suddenly aware that every spot around him had been meticulously cleaned.


    "W-Wait, Seb, where am I supposed to go-"


    "Hm, I wonder where," Father Sebastian teased, glancing at the empty church before turning his back.


    "I wonder where you are, Abraham."


    The playful banter hung in the air, underscored by a deeper understanding of friendship and sacrifice.


    Meanwhile at New Salem,


    Eventually, Percival returned to Ricky''s chambers, where he found Ricky stepping out of the shower.


    "Did he agree?" Ricky asks, using another towel to dry off his hair and Percival nodded.


    "Yes, young Ricky, His Holiness has agreed to your demands, provided that you uphold your duties as the Black Knight." Percival nodded and Ricky looked at the ghost, scratching his chin thoughtfully.


    In that moment, Ricky fully embraced his identity as the Black Knight, ready to carry the mantle until a suitable replacement could be found.


    However, now that the ghost was leaving, Ricky felt an unsettling mix of emotions wash over him.


    For the past two years, Percival had been like a tick, an ever-present companion, clinging to him and guiding him through the tumultuous journey of becoming a knight.


    The loss of that constant support left him actually surprised, a sensation akin to stepping out from the warmth of a protective shadow into the cold light of uncertainty.


    His swordsmanship had indeed progressed remarkably and where once he had struggled with the weight of the blade, now he wielded it with grace and confidence, executing maneuvers that had once felt impossible.


    Percival''s training had pushed him to master techniques, develop precision, and discover the rhythm of combat.


    Yet, beneath the surface of his achievements, the ghost''s warnings echoed ominously in Ricky''s mind.


    Percival had emphasized that if Ricky continued to rely solely on his teachings, he risked stunting the growth of his own unique fighting style.


    ''Adaptation is key.'' Percival had always told him, a sage''s wisdom woven into the fabric of his ghostly presence.


    ''Learn from my techniques, yes, but do not become a mere reflection of my past. A knight''s strength lies in his ability to innovate and grow beyond the boundaries of tradition.''


    This lesson weighed heavily on Ricky now as he understood that every warrior needed to find their voice in combat, to mold their own identity within the art of swordplay.


    "So, I guess this really is goodbye." Ricky chuckled, although deep down he knew it would feel a little empty with Percival gone but easily shrugged it off, knowing he would get over it.


    "So it is. But before I go, may I say goodbye to someone?" Percival asked, and Ricky shrugged, turning to the side.


    "They''re your goodbyes, not mine," Ricky replied, genuinely puzzled as to why Percival needed permission buttill, he relented and gave in.


    As Percival disappeared and reappeared in a small room, Alexander was neatly making his bed as he looked up, a smile spreading across his face at the delightful intrusion.


    "Ah, Percival! Have you come to relish in the times of old?" Alexander asked gleefully, only to see Percival shaking his head slowly.


    "No, my friend, my time has come at last." Percival revealed, causing Alexander to freeze in place.


    "O-Oh, I see." Alexander''s voice was heavy with sadness as he had known this moment would come eventually, but he never thought he would witness the day.


    "But what of Ricky''s training, your swordsmanship-"


    "My swordsmanship isn''t suited for young Ricky. It is time for him to find his own path with all the tools I''ve given him," Percival revealed, understanding that if he continued to teach Ricky in his ways, it might stunt the young man''s future potential.


    "And besides, I''m sure you''ll do a fine job mentoring him, as you are a wiser teacher than I ever could be," Percival complimented, recognizing how Alexander had truly managed to earn Ricky''s difficult respect and connect with him in a way that he himself struggled to do, often finding it challenging to even remain in the same room as his own blood.


    *Sniff*


    "I will never forget you, Ser Percival; first Black Knight, hero of Scandia, knight of the Round Table, and a cherished friend," Alexander said, his voice thick with emotion as he fought back tears. Percival smiled warmly at him, a mixture of pride and affection in his spectral gaze.


    "And I will never forget you, Alexander the Great, sovereign of Macedonia, commander of the Paeonians, vanquisher of Europe, and most of all, a cherished friend," Percival said, taking Alexander''s furry hand in a firm shake.


    As their hands clasped, a sense of warmth and camaraderie filled the air.


    But soon, Percival began to wither away, his form gradually transcending into the heavens, leaving behind a lingering sense of connection and gratitude.


    "Goodbye friend, may you rest in peace once more."


    Author''s Note: I think that I''m gonna make a pateron soon but the only problem is that I gotta get my lazy ass to acutally revise five Chapters ahead.

 Chapter 95 - 93: Last Year

    Chapter 95: Chapter 93: Last Year


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    In a small patch of grass, Ricky drove a sleek ebony sword down, its blade casting a dark gleam as arcs of red energy crackled around him.


    His muscles tensed, and he gritted his teeth as the weapon''s power surged through him, every fiber of his body straining against the force.


    The midday sun bathed him in a warm, golden light, softening the edges of the serene landscape around him, a sharp contrast to the storm churning within his mind.


    ''All this training is pointless.''


    ''You''ll never amount to anything.''


    ''You''re a failure.''


    Thoughts pulsed in his mind like a relentless headache and yet, unlike a year ago, when Ricky had been crushed beneath the weight of its seething hatred, he now bore it with unyielding resolve, his gaze hardened.


    His green eyes, however, were stripped of their usual luster, dark red tendrils now pulsed through his irises, casting an eerie glow.


    With that crimson fury fueling him, he swung the ebony sword down once more, each strike charged with a power that seemed to ripple from deep within him.


    *WHOOSH*


    The air around him suddenly flashed out as Ricky once again entered his berserk state as the red energy crackled all around his being.


    ''KILL!''


    ''KILL!''


    ''KILL!''


    The thoughts within Ricky''s mind twisted from mere words of hatred into a raw, bloodthirsty urge until, in an instant, his entire being erupted with a torrent of vivid green energy.


    A typhoon of power surged around him, as grotesque, murky red tendrils of aura wove into the brilliant green, creating a fierce, swirling storm.


    His sovereign haki surged, pushing back against the consuming bloodlust that the ebony blade sought to drown him in, forcing his will against the weapon''s dark intent.


    The energies collided violently, clashing in a dazzling explosion around him, while Ricky''s eyes crackled with both red and green.


    *WHOOOOOOSH*


    Then, with a single, decisive slash, Ricky brought the ebony blade down, slicing through the typhoon of swirling energies as if cleaving the storm itself in two.


    The chaotic aura split apart, dissipating into the air as Ricky straightened from his stance, his breath steadying, shoulders relaxed yet charged with latent power.


    "Phew~" Ricky wiped his forehead, walking over to the side and wiping his face with a towel as Alexander nodded his furry head.


    "Your progress has been most excellent Ricky, though it is a bit flashy." Alexander remarked, nodding with genuine approval before adding with a smirk


    "Yeah, but I''d rather look like a Christmas tree than let my brain get turned into barbarian mush," Ricky quipped, leaning forward with a grin as Alexander conceded his words with a slow nod.


    Over this last year, Ricky had been refining, training, and then refining some more.


    Ricky wasn''t merely honing his swordsmanship; he was refining his abilities, seamlessly weaving them into his combat style.


    It struck him how much he''d been shooting himself in the foot, how he''d barely tapped into the range of skills available to him.


    Only now, as he embraced their full potential, did he realize how foolish he''d been for neglecting them.


    Perhaps it was his prolonged isolation or the fresh awareness of his system''s value, but he knew now that he''d taken it for granted.


    Though confined to his training grounds and New Salem, Ricky resolved to fully exploit the system''s potential and to embrace his inner degenerate even further to get even stronger.


    This past year had been transformative; his growth as a fighter was evident not only in his skill but in the way he carried himself.


    [Status]


    Name: Ricky Luciano


    Titles: Deadbeat, Royal Thug, Prodigal Son, Witch''s Gigolo


    Age: 18


    Born: October, 27, 1918


    Race: Human


    Strength: 43¡ú56 (Middle realm of Superhuman)


    Stamina: 41¡ú53 (Middle realm of Superhuman.)


    Vitality: 46¡ú59 (Middle realm of Superhuman.)


    Agility: 37¡ú49(Peak Lower realm of Superhuman)


    Dexterity: 40¡ú52(High realm of Superhuman)


    Intelligence: 28¡ú35 (Above Peak Adult)


    Mana: 65¡ú85 (High realm of Superhuman.)


    Charm: 38¡ú50 (Gracing superhuman levels, it is shocking that a bastard could grow this much and not be an incubus.)


    Appearance: 38¡ú50 (Have reached superhuman level of good looks, ones that are only portrayed in animated media that seemed impossible for regular minds.)


    Skills Improved:


    (Epic Skill) Master Swordsmanship: represents an elite level of proficiency in the art of wielding a sword, surpassing advanced techniques and embodying true mastery. This epic skill is acquired through years of dedicated practice, intense training, and combat experience. Individuals with this skill showcase unparalleled control, precision, and effectiveness in battle, making them formidable sword fighters.


    (Epic Skill) Master Spearmanship: signifies an elite level of proficiency in the art of wielding a spear, transcending advanced techniques and embodying true mastery. This epic skill is developed through extensive training, practical experience, and deep understanding of spear combat. Practitioners of this skill demonstrate exceptional control, versatility, and tactical prowess, making them unrivaled opponents in combat.


    (Epic Skill) Master Hand-to-Hand Combat: signifies an elite level of proficiency in unarmed fighting techniques, surpassing advanced methods and embodying true mastery. This epic skill is developed through rigorous training, practical experience, and an in-depth understanding of martial arts. Practitioners of this skill demonstrate exceptional control, strength, and tactical acumen, making them nearly invincible in close-quarters combat.


    This year''s growth had surpassed even last year''s strides, largely thanks to the potent growth tonic, which had fortified Ricky''s already developing body, hardening it to a new, formidable level.


    Ricky''s progression defied conventional limits, nudging him closer to a realm that seemed almost unnatural for any ordinary human.


    His anomaly was evident, pushing his physique and abilities beyond reason, yet it wasn''t just the system or his X-Gene that fueled his rise, it was his relentless drive to refine the skills he had gained and cultivated on his own.


    Elevating an epic skill to a legendary level, however, proved far more challenging than advancing from rare to epic, which was why his bowmanship remained at the epic level for now. But despite these hurdles, Ricky felt prepared.


    The merging of his innate potential with his hard-won abilities left him ready to face whatever lay beyond his training grounds as a pair of eyes gazed towards him.


    It wasn''t only Ricky who sensed the change as Rachael, too, noticed his newfound strength, her initial surprise shifting into a grudging approval as they prepared for their confrontation with Dracula.


    Alongside his progress, though, Ricky had grown increasingly narcissistic, seizing every chance to boast about his strength, much to everyone''s annoyance.


    Still, his arrogance carried a playful edge, a swagger that had become both endearing and exasperating to those around him.


    Now, after three years of training on and off with Rachael, she actually believed they might have a sliver of a chance against Dracula, though only a slim one.


    In reality, three years of grueling growth couldn''t match the centuries of power Dracula had amassed.


    Ricky''s progress was extraordinary, yet in the face of such ancient power, it was still a far cry from what he would truly need, at least to Rachael.


    This secrecy is why Rachael has devised a plan she refuses to share with Ricky, convinced he''d spoil it if he knew.


    Her trust in him only went so far, and she believed that keeping him in the dark was the best way to ensure their survival.


    Surprisingly, Ricky wasn''t frustrated by her secrecy but rather disappointed; but he understood that his moment to step up would come, but until then, Rachael seemingly convinced herself that she would strategically maneuver around him, making use of his power without depending on his judgment.


    15 minutes later,


    Stepping out of the shower, Ricky glanced over at his desk and frowned at the sight of Garfield peacefully napping.


    The cat''s serene presence contrasted sharply with the chaotic energy that often filled the room.


    With a flat expression, Ricky turned and headed back to the bathroom, returning moments later with a glass of water in hand.


    As he approached, Garfield stirred slightly in his sleep, a blissful smile spreading across his face.


    "C-Cheese pizza~" Garfield murmured, drool pooling slightly as he scratched his sizable belly, lost in a delightful dream.


    *Splash*


    Water splattered across the desk, jolting Garfield awake with a startled jerk of his head. His eyes darted around until they landed on Ricky, who stood there with an outstretched hand, his grimoire slowly levitating into the air.


    "W-Wait-" Garfield stammered, wide-eyed, looking up with horrified eyes at his summoner.


    "How many times do I have to tell you to stop drooling on my research?" Ricky replied, irritation evident in his gaze as he shot a look at the papers now smeared with Garfield''s slobber.


    "I-I-"


    *Sigh*


    "You''re going to spray me with water regardless, right?" Garfield slumped his shoulders in defeat.


    "I''m going to spray you with water regardless." Ricky repeated his words at the same time, his grimoire turning to a specific page.


    In an instant, a jet of water shot from Ricky''s palm, drenching hissing Garfield and sending him sprawling off the desk.


    The fat cat squawked as he was sprayed sideways, his plush form instantly looking slimmer as the water soaked through his fur.


    He landed with a soft thud, rolling and hitting his back hitting the wall, a look of incredulity plastered on his face.


    "You''re a monster," Garfield hissed, glaring up at Ricky, who merely shrugged as he adjusted his notes and settled into his seat.


    "And you''re fat," Ricky shot back with a chuckle, fully aware he could''ve crafted a better comeback but feeling a sense of accomplishment nonetheless. Garfield scrunched his brows in annoyance.


    "Crappy story, lazy writing-" Garfield scoffed, crossing his arms in indignation and directing his frustration at the author.


    But before he could finish his thought, a random vase toppled off the shelf, clattering down and smacking him on the head with a resounding thud.


    *TINK*


    *THUMP*


    Garfield face-planted onto the floor, the vase rolling away from him in a daze and Alexander, perched on Ricky''s shoulder, tilted his head in curiosity, glancing from the unconscious cat to Ricky.


    "I must say, Ricky, your dedication to studying is impressive. But remind me again as to why it is so important to you?" Alexander asked, hopping off Ricky''s shoulder and striding over to the scattered papers as Ricky began to arrange them.


    "Because the ebony blade made me realize I have to protect my mind at all costs."


    That was the answer he gave anyone who asked why he suddenly immersed himself in this field of research, and it held some merit however, the truth was far more complex.


    The real reason Ricky dedicated himself to this craft lay buried in his past life.


    Honestly, he couldn''t recall much of relevance; his previous existence had been a haze of self-indulgence, marked by self-loathing, alcohol, and drugs.


    Yet the Cave of Regrets had sparked a profound awakening within him as it forced him to confront the fact that those memories from his past life were still etched in his mind, lingering like shadows.


    This newfound clarity not only propelled him to not just be better, but it showed that those memories were not lost forever but still lingering within the depths of his mind.


    In reality, Ricky had been transported back to the 1930s, a full 70 years from where he had been born.


    But the only significant action he took during that time was investing $50,000 in Coca-Cola.


    When Ricky returned to New York, he didn''t want to simply be a changed man; he wanted to be someone who could provide for those around him.


    Yet he faced a significant hurdle since although he possessed the skill of ''Business Acumen'', he had never actually worked in the field of investing that wasn''t on a baccarat table.


    He understood that, much like mastering the sword, it would take time to develop the necessary expertise.


    To bridge this gap, Ricky decided to hone this ability to make sound decisions that would lead his family to success.


    Simultaneously, he began to delve into his old, foggy memories, trying to recall the names of companies that still thrived far into the future.


    In this way, as he developed into a competent player in the corporate field, he would have a solid foundation to springboard from, leveraging knowledge of companies that would excel in the future.


    Ricky recognized that combining his emerging skills in business with insights from his past life could give him a significant edge, allowing him to navigate the complexities of the market with a strategic mindset.


    4 hours later,


    *Sigh*


    Ricky leaned back in his chair, rubbing his tired eyes in frustration after yet another failed attempt.


    Heaving a large sigh, he tried to shake off the disappointment that weighed heavily on his chest.


    Right now, he was attempting to form a spell from a collection of existing incantations, hoping to delve deep into his mind and simulate the experience he had in the Cave of Regrets.


    Each time, however, he found himself falling short, the spell unraveling like a poorly woven tapestry before it could fully manifest.


    "Another failure?" Alexander inquired, peeking out from his own studies, his expression a mix of concern and curiosity.


    "What are you doing?" Alexander added, noticing Ricky opening his storage and pulling the desk into it as if it were nothing more than a prop in a magic trick.


    "Getting ready to leave." Ricky replied, dusting off his hands with a sense of finality.


    "Does that mean-"


    "I think I''m ready." Ricky could feel it, he felt that power earlier as if breaking through and actually seeing through the haze of his berserk form.


    "Are you sure you can stand before Dracula?" Alexander asked, slowly closing his book. He hopped onto the cover, fixing Ricky with a resolute gaze.


    "Honestly, I''m not sure, but I know that if I don''t leave today, I''ll just stagnate." Ricky admitted, rubbing the back of his neck as the uncertainty of facing Dracula loomed over him though not as fear, but as a strange ambiguity, like the hazy edge of a storm.


    Ricky wasn''t intimidated by Dracula''s towering strength anymore but instead, facing him felt like standing at the edge of an oncoming storm, vast and ominous.


    The unknown swirled before him, a force that was impossible to fully measure.


    Ricky knew the storm was there, looming in his path, yet he couldn''t tell if it would pass with a light rain or strike with the fury of a fatal hurricane as his progress had changed everything so drastically.


    "And besides, I can''t even flirt with the other witches here. Agatha literally made three babes I hit on just, disappear." Ricky sighed, glancing around the cluttered room that had become both a sanctuary and a cage.


    Agatha didn''t care if he messed around with other girls, but when it came to witches, her irritation was oddly palpable, becoming akin to Hera confronting Zeus when it came to him trying to bang another witch.


    Holding the title of Witch''s Gigolo was no joke; Ricky could feel the flirty stares directed his way.


    The issue was that no one dared to step onto Agatha''s territory, and those who attempted to tread within the coven''s bounds mysteriously vanished without a trace.


    "And here like I thought you would finally settle down." Alexander slowly shook his head, seeing Ricky pointed to himself and smirked.


    "C''mon, Alexander, it''s me we''re talking about." Ricky chuckled, a smirk tugging at his lips.


    Deep down, he wanted to be someone dependable, someone people could count on, but that didn''t mean he''d settle into the role of a stay-at-home dad.


    Ricky knew himself too well and beneath the ambitions, Ricky was still the same thrill-seeker, a man whose appetite for pleasure and indulgence kept him teetering on the edge.


    Yet this time, he was determined to channel it with a bit more caution with less reckless pursuits; he''d savor the pleasure without losing himself to it and remain grounded instead of floating into the abyss.


    "Some things just don''t really change." Alexander watched Ricky scoop him up as he looked back to Garfield''s still face planted in the rug.


    "Whoa, has he been unconscious this whole time?" Ricky asked, glancing at Alexander, who coughed and looked off to the side, completely forgetting about the orange cat.


    Shaking his head, Ricky leaned down, pressing his fingertips gently into Garfield''s fur.


    He focused, channeling his mental energy to heal any wounds Garfield might have suffered.


    Slowly, a soft glow pulsed from his hands, spreading through Garfield''s fur as he worked to mend the groggy cat''s injuries.


    *SNORT*


    "Huh?" Garfield snorted awake, groggily blinking his eyes.


    "What''s going on? Is it lunchtime?" Garfield rubbed his eyes, smacked his lips, and gave a lazy stretch.


    "Uh huh, sure." Ricky opened his mouth, considering telling Garfield, but just shrugged it off.


    "Good talk." Garfield muttered, half-listening, as Ricky grabbed him up as the orange cat rubbed his stomach with one paw, grumbling.


    "You know, I was just in the middle of a five-course dream. You''d better have some snacks ready, or I''m filing a complaint." Garfield yawned, resting in Ricky''s arms while getting comfy even though he just woke up.


    "Your complaint has been filed and the bureau of ''IDGAF'' has decided that you need a diet." Ricky walked out of the study as Garfield''s smug smile slowly deteriorated.


    "I retract my complaint." Garfield slowly said only to see Ricky smile this time, walking into a room with a chuckle.


    "The retraction has been denied. Guess it''s time for you to make friends with celery." Ricky laughed darkly, swinging the door open with a flourish as the last of Garfield''s smug grin evaporated.


    "O-Oh god, no-" Garfield glanced around wildly, assuming he was moments away from a dreadful salad encounter until he spotted the nearby play area instead, he sprang to the side, claws extended.


    "Please, I''ll be a good kitty, a quiet, handsome kitty!" Garfield whined, tearing up as he clung to Ricky''s arm in a last-ditch effort to escape his fate.


    But Ricky''s grip was firm, and as soon as Garfield hit the play area, he bolted for the far wall, pressing his back against it as he eyed the shadowy, looming child-like play structures with wary apprehension.


    This wasn''t hell, but to Garfield, it was the complete incarnation of sadistic torture, his eyes shrinking in terror.


    It was then that two pairs of green eyes gleamed from the darkness, piercing the gloom like twin stars of mischief.


    Garfield''s chest began to palpitate, each heartbeat echoing in his ears as his breath grew ragged.


    "ALEXANDER, PLEASE-"


    "I am sorry, comrade. It was either me or you, and I chose myself." Alexander looked away from his fellow familiar, wiping a tear from his eye.


    "I ask for your understanding, not your forgiveness." Alexander cast a final glance at Garfield, his expression pained, before turning his back.


    Suddenly, two pairs of tiny hands emerged from the shadows, grasping Garfield with an iron grip.


    "PLEASE, DON''T LET THEM TAKE ME!" Garfield screeched, his claws digging into the carpet as he was dragged toward the darkness.


    Panic surged within him, and tears streamed down his cheeks as the relentless grip of the hands pulled him closer to an uncertain fate.


    "STOP READING ABOUT MY SUFFERING AND HELP ME GET AWAY FROM THESE HORRID CREATURES-AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Garfield screamed, directing his plea toward the reader.


    Desperation filled his voice as he struggled against the relentless grip pulling him into the abyss.


    Claw marks trailed along the carpet, evidence of his frantic descent into the darkness, each scratch a testament to his unwillingness to be consumed by whatever horrors lay beyond.


    The reader could only witness his suffering, the absurdity of his situation becoming painfully clear as he vanished further into the shadows, leaving only the bubbly laughter of children.


    "Darling~" Agatha chimed, her warm smile lighting up the room as she rose from her desk and with a playful leap, she landed in Ricky''s arms, wrapping her arms around his neck.


    "Hey, beautiful." Ricky replied, pressing a gentle kiss to her cheek as he twirled her around with effortless ease, delighting in the moment.


    As he set her down, he leaned down to plant a soft kiss on the top of her head, savoring the sweet connection between them.


    "Agatha, I need to tell you something," Ricky said softly, his fingers brushing against her cheek.


    Agatha froze, a subtle tension rippling through her as if she sensed the weight of his words and she instinctively grabbed his hand, her grip firm yet gentle, a silent plea for him to continue.


    "You''re leaving." Agatha said, her voice trembling slightly, a hint of heartbreak lacing her words.


    She had known this moment was inevitable, but the reality of it felt like a sudden jolt to her heart.


    Over the past year, everything had felt like a dream for the powerful witch, serene and blissful.


    Each day spent with Ricky and their family wove a tapestry of joy and laughter that now seemed poised to unravel.


    The thought of him departing shattered the tranquility they had built together, leaving her grappling with an ache she had never expected to feel so soon.


    "Don''t die-....don''t leave me all alone." Agatha''s voice quivered as she clutched him tightly, knowing there was nothing she could do to make him stay.


    "Me? The guy that''s gonna put Dracula''s head on a stick and parade it around Europe." Ricky replied with a reassuring smile, brushing a hand through her hair.


    "You have such a way with words, you know that?" Agatha let out a reluctant chuckle, softening the air between them.


    "Makes sense, I''ve been told I''m the Shakespeare of perverts." Ricky swayed Agatha in place, grabbing her hand then twirling her chuckling form around then pulling her back into his embrace.


    Agatha''s hand slid up to cradle Ricky''s chin, her touch tender yet firm, guiding his face toward hers.


    Her crimson lips met his in a kiss that was not merely a meeting of mouths but a collision of heart and soul.


    Agatha''s lips were soft, warm, carrying an intensity that spoke of love, longing, and the silent fear of letting him go.


    She pressed closer, deepening the kiss with a slow, deliberate passion, as if trying to etch herself into his very being.


    Time seemed to slow as her fingers tightened against his skin, each shared breath a vow, each lingering moment a wordless confession of everything they felt but hadn''t spoken aloud.


    Their kiss broke softly, lingering warmth still dancing between them as Agatha pulled back, a sadness glimmering in her eyes.


    Her hand came to rest gently on his chest, her fingers splayed as though to feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath.


    She gazed up at him, her expression tender but sincere, a silent plea woven into her look.


    "Go."


    *Bam*


    "Rachael, I''m ready to kill that *f*cking* bloodsucker!" Ricky declared, his voice echoing through the hall as he kicked the door open, sending it flying off its hinges with a crash.


    Ricky strode in with a fist pump, Alexander perched on his shoulder, cheering along with infectious enthusiasm.


    On the other hand, Ricky carried a thoroughly defeated Garfield, limp and uncharacteristically silent, his usual snark completely absent.


    The cat''s half-lidded eyes and drooping whiskers showed he''d resigned himself to his fate, not even a sarcastic quip left in him..


    *Sigh*


    "I-I don''t want to talk about it. Let''s be mature and move on." Garfield sighed, clearly resigned.


    The weariness in his voice hinted at the fact he''d finally accepted his role as Ricky''s familiar, abandoning any attempts to shift their dynamic.


    He slumped further, waving a dismissive paw as if to brush off the events of earlier and simply wanted to be rid of this place.


    "Huzzah!" Alexander suddenly shouted, eyes blazing with determination as he hopped forward, clearly thirsting for a rematch against Dracula, the one who had embarrassed not only his prote?ge? but also himself.


    "Why do you always interrupt us on our breaks?" Chores muttered, rubbing his tired eyes, which were shadowed by dark bags as he set down his cards with a sigh, clearly resigned to the intrusion.


    "It has become a sort of right of passage for him at this point, I suppose." Barko adjusted his goggles, using a wind spell to put down his cards.


    Over the past three years, Chores and Barko had carved out their own identities, taking significant strides toward understanding their roles in the future.


    Ricky had noticed their absence; he hadn''t seen much of them lately, especially in the past year.


    Their isolation had become pronounced, particularly with Barko, who seemed to have developed an obsession with Abraham''s ancient texts.


    He rarely emerged from his study, only surfacing to gather the necessary supplies that would allow him to continue his solitary pursuits.


    In contrast, Chores had been more active in his own way, integrating himself into the magic manufacturing community of New Salem.


    Chores was diving headfirst into the intricacies of spellcraft, learning to produce various magical objects while diligently refining his skills.


    Ricky had observed these changes in Chores with a sense of respect, making a mental note of his progress at every turn before turning his focus back to his own training.


    "Settle down. We haven''t gathered enough witches and warlocks to take on Dracula''s bolstered army," Rachael said, her voice calm yet firm as she set her cards down.


    Chores and Barko exchanged weary glances, their faces etched with fatigue from their own struggles yet they both showed worry at hearing Ricky bring this up after so many years.


    "Oh, I''ve got an army." Ricky replied, a spark of determination igniting within him as he recalled his promise to Verledalet.


    Rachael raised an eyebrow skeptical but chose to humor him, knowing that enthusiasm was often the only thing that kept Ricky grounded in the chaos around them.


    "Fine, then let us see this army of yours, shall we?" Rachael scoffed, crossing her arms as she watched him with an amused expression.


    Ricky childishly mouthed her own words, an impish grin spreading across his face as he directed his mana into his grimoire, which floated beside him, glowing with a vibrant energy.


    "Gate." Ricky snobbishly declared towards Rachael, watching the stubborn woman give him her signature eye roll.


    The air around him crackled as his magic surged, flowing into the grimoire and with a flash of vibrant green light, a swirling portal materialized next to him, pulsating with an otherworldly energy.


    "Ladies first~" Ricky gestured theatrically, a playful grin spreading across his face. Rachael frowned but stepped into the shimmering gate, her expression a mix of annoyance and intrigue.


    "Chores, Barko, go notify Agatha and that snobby council to start preparing for war." Ricky instructed, his tone shifting to a more serious note.


    He knew that Chores and Barko would handle all the grunt work flawlessly, their dedication never wavering as the duo exchanged knowing glances.


    *Sigh*


    "Alright, Slick, we''ll get it done," Chores replied, rubbing his eyes wearily and just as Ricky was about to step into the gate, Jake''s image flickered over Chores, causing him to halt mid-stride.


    "Hey, good job." Ricky said, catching both of them off guard.


    "I know we''ve all been doing our own things, but I''m proud of how far both of you have come." Ricky''s sincere compliment lingered in the air, creating a moment of warmth and camaraderie.


    But before the atmosphere could turn awkward, he leaped into the gate, disappearing into the shimmering portal without another word.


    "Did he-" Chores stammered, stunned into silence as he pointed at the spot where the portal had just been.


    "Yes, I think Slick actually complimented us in a genuine way," Barko said, a smile spreading across his face.


    For the first time in a while, he felt truly seen, and that spark of validation ignited a sense of purpose within them.


    They exchanged a look of disbelief, their earlier weariness momentarily forgotten and with renewed determination, they both walked out of the house, ready to take on the tasks ahead and eager to prove that they were more than just side characters in someone else''s story but their own persons.


    "Can you not carry me like this?" Garfield asked, feeling more uncomfortable than in pain as Ricky held him like a toddler, one arm tucked under his rear and the other supporting his back.


    "Pussy," Ricky whispered under his breath, smirking as he approached the old, closed suit shop. Garfield''s ears twitched at the remark, irritation bubbling up inside him.


    ''Stupid human, stupid reader, and this stupid story,'' Garfield grumbled silently as he resented the turn his life had taken.


    One day he was napping peacefully in the void of the endless abyss and now, he has been demoted to being this selfish human''s cat.


    "Why are we walking into an abandoned shop?" Rachael asked, raising an eyebrow as Ricky plopped down onto a nearby crate.


    As he stepped inside the suit shop, a wave of de?ja? vu washed over him as the air was thick with dust, and the scent of aged wood hung in the atmosphere, almost like a ghost of memories long forgotten.


    "To wait until night, duh." Ricky replied matter-of-factly, setting Garfield down as the cat gave him a skeptical look before clicking his tongue in annoyance.


    "What is your deal anyways, I''ve been a good owner-"


    "You''ve only used me when you train your stupid magic and after that, you stick me to babysit your demon spawns!" Garfield slammed down his paw onto the crate, teary eye at what his life had become.


    In truth, Garfield''s life wasn''t all luxury naps and pampering from Agatha''s attendants.


    When he wasn''t sprawled out on velvet cushions or sneaking extra snacks, he was subjected to some less-than-dignified treatment.


    Instead of being cherished like a cherished pet, he was occasionally treated as a plaything for the little ones being Zatanna and Johnny, who had a particular fascination with his ears.


    "Fine, two trays of lasagna a week once we''re back in New York." Ricky held up two fingers, his face perfectly stoic.


    Garfield froze, his entire being going rigid as his breath hitched. He could practically taste the lasagna already, mouth watering against his will as he clutched his own chest, feeling his heart pound with temptation.


    ''N-No, you must stay strong.'' Garfield reminded himself, gnashing his teeth while trying to resist.


    ''All those years of torture aren''t worth giving in now and especially not for the warm, rich, creamy taste of the only dish worthy of the great Garfield.'' Garfield''s stomach protested, nearly howling to lunge at the offer, but he held firm, resisting Ricky''s taunting temptation with all the self-restraint he could muster.


    "N-No, I''m a strong, masculine cat who doesn''t give in to these temptations-" Garfield muttered, shaking his head and covering his face, trying to block out the memory of every ounce of torture he''d endured under Ricky''s reign.


    "Three trays."


    "NO, I WILL NOT BE TEMPTED BY THIS DEVIL-"


    "Four trays."


    "Oh, master! Oh, my handsome and generous master whom I adore with all my heart!" Garfield''s defiance melted instantly as he shamelessly lunged onto Ricky''s leg, hugging it dearly with a look of pure devotion.


    All these pain and these endless tribulations have brought us closer, haven''t they?" Garfield wiped a dramatic tear from his eye, gazing up at Ricky with a surprisingly genuine smile


    Garfield the Cosmic Cat (Favorability: 0¡ú80)


    With one simple bribe, Garfield transformed from a bitter, scheming cat into his lovable, drooling old self, his mind completely overtaken by the idea of decadent lasagna.


    Clinging to Ricky''s pant leg, he gazed up adoringly, drool dripping as he imagined the feast to come.


    "Don''t judge me; I''m a cat of simple, if weak, will." Garfield muttered, glancing toward the reader''s clearly judging eyes with a shrug as pride could never compete with a satisfied belly, after all.


    As Ricky moved through the dim wine cellar, Garfield continued clinging to him like a grateful shadow.


    Ricky''s eyes scanned the dusty shelves until they rested on an old bottle tucked away, gleaming faintly in the low light.


    Ricky plucked the bottle from the shelf, brushing off a layer of dust to reveal a handwritten note tied around its neck.


    Dear Slick,


    I had a feeling that you''d come back one way or another, and if so, here''s a little of my good wine to tie you over.


    - Rotolo


    "Oh, Rotolo, truly a man of God." Ricky sighed in relief, clutching the dusty wine bottle as though he''d unearthed buried treasure and strolled back toward Rachael with a satisfied grin.


    "Of course the alcoholic sniffs out the liquor, what a surprise." Rachael said with a sarcastic sigh.


    In her mind, Rachael should have known, considering how Ricky had always managed to track down wine like the alcoholic bloodhound he was.


    Her judgmental gaze pierced through Ricky, but he couldn''t care less, even as he imagined her slowly undressing him with those eyes.


    Ricky took another hearty swig from the bottle, savoring the rich flavor as it washed over him as he gave Rachael a mischievous grin as he lowered the bottle.


    "Oh, come on, you''ve tasted those witches'' brews. If you''re using alchemy and can''t even make a decent ale, are you really an alchemist?" Ricky chuckled, waving the bottle in her direction only to see her hold up her hand, rejecting the offer to day drink with him.


    "Alchemist aren''t judged by how well they brew liquor-"


    "Ah, well, they should be~" Ricky sighed with a sense of relief, clutching his heart at the thought of how good a man Rotolo had been to him, even in his absence.


    Although Rachael was clearly judging him for his drinking habits, Ricky had actually been cutting back significantly.


    Zatanna''s tears over the smell of any booze weighed heavily on his conscience, and Johnny always seemed to find a way to sneak into his flasks, making it harder for him to indulge.


    So the only times he ever had the chance to drink were after long hours of research, but even then, fatigue often claimed him before he could truly enjoy it, leaving him to fall asleep with a half-finished glass still in hand.


    "So, who is the one that possesses this army?" Rachael asked calmly, her curiosity piqued as she wondered if Ricky had managed to sway yet another one of his girls from outside New Salem.


    "His name is Verdelet-"


    "What?!" Rachael shot up, her eyes flashing an ominous yellow as the mere mention of the name ignited her transformation.


    A chill swept through the air, thickening around them, as if the very atmosphere was responding to her brewing fury.


    "Verdelet¡ª" Ricky teased, fully aware that it wasn''t the answer Rachael was looking for.


    His laughter echoed through the room as he watched her expression morph from surprise to outrage, her composure unraveling before his eyes.


    "I know who Verdelet is, Ricky!" Rachael yelled, her voice sharp with frustration. Alexander, caught off guard, furrowed his brow in confusion.


    "Then why did she ask?" Alexander wondered aloud, his gaze shifting between Rachael and Garfield, who was still lost in dreams of lasagna.


    "Did I not tell you about this? Weird, I wonder why I didn''t do that?" Ricky mused, taking another sip from the bottle as he savored the moment of catching this control freak off guard.


    Rachael let out a hollow laugh, the tension in the room easing slightly as she shook her head in disbelief.


    "I would''ve known if you mentioned one of the oldest disciples of Dracula''s master!" Rachael yelled, her fury palpable as she glared at Ricky, who seemed unfazed by her outburst.


    "Ah, now I remember why I didn''t tell you," Ricky sighed, bracing himself as he could practically hear the gears turning in Rachael''s mind, knowing a lecture was imminent.


    Ricky watched her stomp over, determination etched on her face, ready to unleash her frustration.


    "Do you know the monster Verdelet is? The things he''s done!" Rachael demanded, her grip tightening on Ricky''s collar, her eyes blazing with concern as he pried her fingers away with a nonchalant shrug.


    "I know him well enough to say I''d probably grab a beer with him, but not lunch, I don''t really know him well enough for that." Ricky replied casually since for him, it was the ultimate measure of character; if someone could share a drink, but he wasn''t friendly enough for lunch.


    "RICKY!"


    "Oh my god, not particularly." Ricky said with a slight sigh, raising his hands in mock surrender at the buzzkill before him.


    "But at least he seems a little more reasonable than Dracula-"


    "THEY''RE LITERALLY THE SAME! IN FACT, THERE''S A RUNNING JOKE WITHIN THE SUPERNATURAL WORLD ABOUT WHO IS THE MORALLY WORST VAMPIRE!" Rachael screamed at Ricky, her frustration evident as he nodded, the words going in one ear and out the other.


    "But in my view, the difference between them is that I actually like Verdelet, or at least I can stand being around him without worrying if he''ll rip out my heart." Ricky shrugged, a nonchalant grin on his face.


    Given his encounters with both ancient vampires, he had clearly developed a bias, favoring Verdelet despite the danger he represented.


    "Oh my god, I thought you were stupid, but I never imagined you''d do something this idiotic!" Rachael exclaimed, grabbing at her hair in exasperation as she couldn''t fathom how little Ricky understood the implications of his connections and the dangerous company he kept.


    Her frustration simmered as she tried to wrap her head around his reckless behavior, feeling the weight of the potential consequences for them all.


    "Listen, I get that Verdelet is a monster-" Ricky pinched the bridge of his nose, a vein of frustration pulsating at his forehead from Rachael''s verbal onslaught.


    "Monster doesn''t even begin to cover it, Ricky! He literally experiments on and tortures not only humans but his own kin, for the-" Rachael''s voice trembled with a mix of anger and disbelief, the words spilling from her lips as she struggled to comprehend Ricky''s apparent nonchalance toward such a horrific figure.


    "For the pursuit of knowledge."


    Rachael immediately drew her crossbow at the sight of Verdelet appearing in the doorway, the moonlight casting a pale glow on his vampiric figure.


    "As creatures, as life, we stop evolving when we stop learning." Verdelet declared, stepping into the shop and surveying the dust-covered remnants of the past.


    "Humans, Dracula, they all go about progression wrong. Power isn''t just about pure strength; it lies in the purity of the mind." Veredelt advanced toward Ricky, extending his hand.


    To Rachael''s shock, Ricky accepted the handshake without hesitation, their palms meeting in an unexpected display of camaraderie.


    In a sense, Verdelet stands as a polar opposite to Dracula, yet they share striking similarities in their methods of pursuing power.


    Both seek to unite the supernatural world under one banner, driven by their visions of supremacy. However, their paths diverge significantly after that goal is achieved.


    Where Dracula thrives on terror and dominance, reveling in chaos and bloodshed, Verdelet takes a more cerebral approach, favoring manipulation and experimentation over brute force.


    His methods often involve intricate plots and philosophical musings about evolution and progress, contrasting sharply with Dracula''s penchant for raw power and fear.


    "Hey, Verdelet! How have you been?" Ricky greeted, giving the old vampire a friendly pat on the shoulder as if they were old pals.


    Verdelet chuckled, clearly entertained by the audacity of this human who showed no fear in his presence.


    "My research is progressing well." Verdelet replied, his expression shifting slightly at his next thoughts.


    "Though that human Mussolini is beginning to wear on my nerves." Verdelets eyes flickered with annoyance, but he maintained his smile, an unsettling juxtaposition of charm and menace.


    "You have done such horrible things, caused numerous atrocities, taken millions of lives-" Rachael''s entire body shook violently, her nails digging into her palms as she fought to contain her anger as Verdelet merely side-eyed her, an expression of detached amusement on his face.


    "And saved the same amount." Veredelt interrupted, cutting through her outrage with an unsettling calm.


    Rachael opened her mouth to retort, but Verdelet continued, his tone smooth and persuasive.


    Although Verdelet has exterminated countless lives and cultures, he has saved just as many through his groundbreaking research.


    Most recently, he discovered a chemical called arsphenamine some time ago, which proved to be an effective treatment for syphilis.


    This discovery marked the beginning of the world''s first modern antibiotic, a breakthrough that would go on to save billions of lives.


    Verdelet''s research has created a ripple effect in the medical field, accelerating advancements in human medicine at an unprecedented pace.


    In fact, nearly every significant medical discovery, whether pertaining to humans or the supernatural, can trace its origins back to Verdelet''s findings, often published under various pseudonyms.


    His work has fundamentally transformed the landscape of medicine, making it possible for innovations to emerge that otherwise might have taken generations to develop.


    "Y-You-"


    *Pffft*


    Ricky couldn''t help but laugh at the stunned expression on Rachael''s face as the shocking revelations of Verdelet''s so-called "good deeds" rendered her momentarily speechless. It was a rare sight to see her so flabbergasted, and the amusement was palpable in the air.


    Yet, Rachael wasn''t one to back down easily as she quickly shook off her surprise and resumed her stance, always ready to highlight the darker side of Verdelet''s actions.


    "But look at the cost!" Racahel shot back, pointing out the atrocities committed in the name of progress.


    No matter how impressive Verdelet''s contributions to science were, she refused to overlook the blood on his hands.


    "And alas, we are met with the age-old dilemma that defines your hesitance: ''Does the end justify the means?''" Verdelet waved his hand dismissively, a smirk playing on his lips as he recognized that Rachael was, for the moment, left speechless.


    "It doesn''t matter, Ricky he is a vile monster who-"


    "Rachael, can I be honest for a second? I really don''t care." Ricky interrupted, cutting through her passionate tirade.


    Although Ricky held the title of the Black Knight, his moral compass was worlds apart from that of this isolated girl.


    He refused to let Rachael''s indignation dictate his perspective, knowing that their beliefs and values diverged significantly.


    As long as he and Verdelet maintained a mutual understanding and respect for each other, Ricky felt no need to harbor any ill will.


    After all, Verdelet hadn''t encroached on his territory or posed a threat to him personally, yet.


    For Ricky, that was all that mattered in their complicated dance of alliances and enmities.


    "Oh, I almost forgot, I also want to thank you for the diaries. They have been detrimental to my research but before I could voice them in full, that Van Helsing interrupted me," Verdelet remarked, casting a sidelong glance at Rachael, who bristled at the mention of her family''s infamous legacy. Ricky nodded in agreement, intrigued.


    "No problem-wait, how could you tell she''s a Van Helsing?" Ricky asked, genuinely curious if he already knew Rachael.


    "They all smell like wet dogs to me." Verdelet replied with a nonchalant shrug, causing Ricky to burst into a fit of hysterical laughter.


    "Hey, Verdelet, about that deal we made three years ago, is it still valid?" Ricky asked, casually leaning against a nearby counter.


    Rachael''s head snapped in his direction, her expression a mix of shock and concern, while the ancient vampire nodded slightly.


    "Of course the deal still stands. I will provide you with my hordes to fight Dracula-"


    "No, I won''t stand for this at all!" Rachael interjected, her voice firm and resolute.


    She planted her foot down as if to physically ground her ancestors'' legacy, knowing full well that this decision went against everything they had fought against.


    The weight of her family''s history hung heavy in the air, and she couldn''t let it be tarnished by an alliance with someone like Verdelet.


    "Then sit." Ricky dismissed her with a casual wave of his hand, his indifference palpable.


    Ricky was completely unfazed by Rachael''s passionate defense of her family''s legacy and everything she stood for as a Van Helsing.


    To him, her heritage was merely background noise, overshadowed by the allure of power and the chance to confront a formidable adversary like Dracula for his own desires.


    "Ricky, we''re just swapping one mad king with a crazed ideology for another!" Rachael pointed out, the irony of the situation clear in her tone.


    "So?" Ricky shrugged, unfazed by her moral outrage.


    While Rachael held on to her ideals of friendship and heroism, believing she could defeat Dracula with the power of good intentions, Ricky remained undeterred.


    Ricky was far from convinced that this was some heartwarming tale where everything fell into place simply because he clung to the power of friendship.


    From his experience, every time he''d dared to confront a vampire, he ended up losing those who trusted him most.


    He wasn''t about to gamble with another life just because Rachael was uncomfortable with the choices ahead.


    Her ideals felt na?ve in the face of the harsh reality they were battling, and he couldn''t afford to let sentiment cloud his judgment again.


    Ricky had learned one undeniable truth during his time in the Mafia: someone in power would always be replaced.


    He''d much prefer that the successor held a favorable view of him rather than someone who would gladly rip out his heart.


    Rachael, on the other hand, wasn''t willing to relent as she loved humanity deeply, always seeing the good in it, a stark contrast to her grandfather''s darker legacy.


    While she idolized him in many ways, her unwavering love for humankind had her locked in a battle of ideals with Ricky.


    Rachael fought for a world where compassion could triumph, even in the face of overwhelming darkness, while Ricky was pragmatic, willing to ally himself with the lesser of two evils for the sake of survival.


    Verdelet regarded humans with a measured indifference, seeing them as useful pawns rather than beings worthy of admiration.


    He would keep them around, primarily for their utility, but his sentiments leaned far from favorable.


    Ricky, however, found himself somewhere leaning towards Verdelelt as he''d witnessed both the good and the bad that humanity had to offer, and at the end of the day, he didn''t care.


    Ricky had reached a pivotal moment in his life where the suffering that surrounded him, suffering he could easily change, felt futile if it didn''t somehow elevate his own standing.


    The pain of others no longer tugged at his conscience; instead, it became a backdrop against which he measured his own worth.


    Ricky had learned that altruism often came at a cost, and in a world riddled with darkness, he was unwilling to sacrifice his own interests for the sake of others.


    The harsh reality was that he could only invest in what benefited him, and as he navigated this morally ambiguous landscape, he only saw whatever benefited him.


    But even so, Ricky made an effort to grasp Rachael''s perspective, recognizing her passion for humanity, but he still couldn''t fathom why she would hesitate to seize such a powerful army on a silver platter.


    "Wasn''t the whole point of your family killing Dracula to free them from purgatory? Don''t you want to liberate them?" Ricky asked, genuine curiosity etched on his face as Rachael gritted her teeth but let out a weary sigh.


    "Of course I want to free my family from purgatory, Ricky. But I refuse to do it in a way that compromises everything they stood for when they died." Rachael''s words hung in the air, leaving Ricky even more baffled.


    "What is compromising your family''s values? Your whole purpose was to kill Dracula, and over the hundreds of years, they couldn''t even do that!" Ricky''s voice rose, fueled by frustration, startling Rachael as she had always known him to be sleazy and flippant, but never this harsh.


    His words struck her like a physical blow, and for a moment, she stood frozen, processing the weight of his accusation.


    "God, you''re so insufferable sometimes, Rachael." Ricky let out a sarcastic laugh, feeling the breaking point of her constant nagging.


    "You preach to me, to everyone, how results require sacrifices and constantly pester everyone with your ideals. Yet when everyone in the world has to make sacrifices, has to compromise, you just expect everyone to fall in line with your whining." Ricky plopped down on a chair, his posture relaxed and dismissive, as if he were completely unfazed by the storm brewing between them.


    Verdelet stood at the side, watching the exchange with an amused expression while patiently waiting for them to finish their squabble.


    "Oh boo hoo, my life is so hard! Because everyone I loved died, everything should go my way, boo hoo~" Ricky mimicked in a high-pitched, mocking tone as he leaned back, crossing his arms


    "What have you lost-"


    "So f*cking much, I''ve lost so many people, and yet here I am, not being a complete b*tch all the time."" Ricky said, shaking his head while leaning back in the dusty chair, the bottle in his hand serving as both comfort and fuel for his argument.


    "Look, Rachael, I understand your family has this whole legacy, and they died fighting Dracula. But holding on to their ideals isn''t going to change a damn thing when we have a chance to finish what they started, and you''re letting it slip away because of some outdated moral code." Ricky looked over at Alexander who was actually on his side, knowing he would never take hsi side to merely humor him.


    "Do you even know how this all came to be, Ricky? How this feud with Dracula truly started?" Rachael asked coldly, her arms crossed as she glared at him.


    "No, I don''t. But since I''ve got some good wine, lay it on me so I can repeat the same opinion thirty minutes from now." Ricky spread his arms wide, a stubborn grin plastered across his face, knowing that unless Dracula was literally wearing Verdelt''s skin then he wasn''t about to change his mind in the next half-hour.


    "Ah, the Van Helsing saga." Veredelt mused, his eyes glinting with amusement.


    "Every iteration is a delight to hear. I do enjoy how each generation spins their version of events." Verdelet chuckled lightly, pulling up a seat next to Ricky and holding out a dusty glass that Ricky poured some into.


    "It all started-"


    Author''s Note: I''ll reply to comments probably tommorrow or the weekend cause I''m hella tired today.

 Chapter 96 - 94: Van Helsing Backstory

    Chapter 96: Chapter 94: Van Helsing Backstory


    Rachel''s Narration:


    Long ago, before the human world glimpsed into the shadows of the supernatural, conflicts simmered and boiled among them.


    Before Transylvania became part of Romania, it was caught in the midst of another invader: the mighty Ottoman Empire.


    At the forefront of this assault was the ruler Vlad II Dracul, a figure torn between the desires of his people and the relentless demands of a foreign power.


    He stood at a crossroads, grappling with a choice that would define his legacy: to concede to the Empire''s demands or prepare for war, risking everything for the hope of independence.


    The crown prince at the time, Vlad Tepes, was fiercely determined to defend his homeland against any intruders.


    Vlad understood that the Ottoman Empire was not merely a threat but a relentless tide that sought to swallow up all that he held dear.


    At this time, Vlad was working within the Ordo Draconum, a noble subdivision dedicated to guiding future rulers in the defense of their realms under the banner of God.


    It was a clandestine society, steeped in ancient traditions and secrets, where principles of honor and duty intertwined with strategies of warfare.


    Alongside him was his brother, Radu Tepes, and my ancestor.


    "Pause, PAUSE!" Ricky exclaimed, interrupting the flow of the narration as he turned to Rachael, his brow furrowed in disbelief.


    "You''re related to Dracula?" Ricky''s expression was a mix of shock and amusement, the implications swirling in his mind.


    Ricky had always sensed a deeper connection between the Van Helsing family and the infamous vampire, but he hadn''t imagined it was through blood.


    "Everything is explained in the story if you''ll let me finish." Rachael replied, Rachael''s annoyance was palpable as she crossed her arms, edging with frustration.


    Ricky frowned, clearly not ready to be chastised and then bicker with her, so he took another sip of his wine, deciding to indulge her for the moment.


    *AHEM*


    Under the order, the two brothers worked tirelessly to usher in a new age for their homeland.


    Vlad devoted himself to the preservation of history and the flourishing of the arts, believing that culture was the backbone of a strong nation.


    In contrast, my ancestor, Radu, committed his soul to the church, seeing faith as the guiding light for their people.


    Radu made the conscious decision to join the clergy, supporting Vlad within the congregation, fostering a bond that transcended the mere titles of brothers.


    Their camaraderie was rooted in trust and shared ideals; they were not just kin but true best friends, each one standing as the other''s pillar in times of strife.


    However, the news of the Ottoman invasion shattered their lives, tearing them from the quiet roles of students and thrusting them violently into the chaos of battle.


    There was no time to deliberate or ponder; as soon as the dreadful news reached their ears, the first clash erupted like a storm.


    They rushed back to their homeland, hearts pounding with a mix of urgency and dread as they barely stopped for sleep.


    Word of the battle reached them like a chilling whisper on the wind, describing a brutal exchange of forces that left their father''s strength waning.


    Each retelling along the way spoke of the relentless tide of invaders, pushing back their defenses, as their father fought valiantly to protect what was rightfully theirs.


    However, upon their return, they were met not with the warm embrace of their homeland, but with a nightmarish display that shattered their hearts.


    There, in the shadow of the castle, their father, Vlad II Dracul, was cruelly impaled on a wooden stake.


    His face, once marked by strength and determination from their childhood memories, was now grotesquely contorted in a grimace of agony.


    Blood gushed from the horrific wound, pooling around his lifeless body in dark, glistening puddles that mingled with the earth, soaking into the ground like a sinister offering.


    It was a grotesque message from the Ottomans and a gruesome welcome home gift that pierced their hearts, igniting a fire within them that would forever alter the course of their lives.


    Many say war changed the two brothers, but in truth, it was the harrowing sight of their brutally disfigured father that shattered their bond, sending them spiraling down separate paths.


    In that moment of horror, the weight of loss forged a rift that neither would be able to bridge.


    From that day forward, they had no choice but to fight for their people, pouring their hearts and souls into the brutal conflict.


    Yet no matter how fiercely they battled, it was never enough to halt the relentless advance of the Ottoman forces.


    Unlike my resilient ancestor, who remained anchored by his faith in God, Vlad found himself increasingly consumed by a darkness that began to take root within him.


    As the war dragged on, his thirst for power became undeniable, slowly overshadowing the noble intentions that had once guided him.


    The desperation of their struggle twisted him, igniting an insatiable hunger that would lead him down a treacherous path, one where the line between savior and tyrant began to blur.


    However, that insatiable hunger soon transformed into despair after one fateful battle.


    Radu, desperate and afraid, pleaded with Vlad to condense their forces within the castle''s fortified walls.


    But Vlad, driven by an unyielding ambition, remained resolute in his determination as the Ottomans had pushed him onto the defensive time and time again, and the thought of retreat felt like a stain on his honor.


    When scouting reports came in of an advancing fleet, Vlad seized the opportunity to execute a bold plan: he would lead their forces, alongside Radu, to attack the vanguard and flank them, hoping to secure a much-needed victory for their homeland.


    Radu''s protests fell on deaf ears as he watched his brother''s eyes gleam with the promise of glory.


    Their battle was arduous, a relentless test of endurance and skill and yet, fueled by their unbreakable bond and instinctual chemistry, the brothers managed to secure a critical foothold, achieving a staggering victory that echoed throughout the land.


    Cheers of triumph rang in their ears as they envisioned their homeland finally freed from the Ottoman grip as they seemingly took the first step towards changing the course of the war.


    But when they returned, their jubilation was swiftly extinguished as instead of a hero''s welcome, they were met with the harrowing sight of their beloved castle engulfed in flames, its once-majestic towers now reduced to smoldering ruins.


    The Ottomans had shown no mercy, ruthlessly sacrificing their own men in a desperate bid to overwhelm the capital while the brothers were away, exploiting their absence with cruel cunning.


    What they had never anticipated was that their departure from the castle would leave it vulnerable.


    Vlad and Radu, believing their home safe behind the stone walls, had ridden out to the battlefield, leaving behind a gaping hole in their defenses.


    When Vlad finally fought his way back into the smoldering remains of his own castle, the scene that greeted him was a nightmare made flesh.


    Vlad''s heart raced as he stumbled through the wreckage, desperately searching for any sign of life.


    But the cold truth hit him like a dagger, his wife and child lay lifeless, their once-vibrant bodies now still and breathless.


    Vlad''s world shattered in the moment he cradled their bodies in his trembling arms, the warmth of their lives snuffed out like a candle in the wind.


    Grief tore through him like wildfire, a tempest of rage and despair igniting in the depths of his soul as the weight of their loss crushed him, rendering him with the hollow feeling of being utterly powerless.


    Radu rushed to his brother''s side, his heart aching for Vlad, desperate to offer comfort in this unimaginable moment.


    But Vlad was beyond reach, consumed by a darkness that clouded his mind as he pushed Radu away with a visceral force, his eyes burning with a hateful glare directed at the captured attackers, those who had torn his world apart.


    It was then that Vlad embraced his future moniker, a name that would strike fear into the hearts of his enemies as he impaled over a hundred men, their screams mingling with the cries of the dying.


    Each stake plunged deep into the earth became a testament to his wrath, a brutal message sent back to the Ottoman forces.


    If they wished to kill him, to take his land, then so be it.


    But they would have to do so while surrounded by the lifeless bodies of their comrades, the very soldiers who once stood shoulder to shoulder with them.


    The soldiers who had once reveled in their own violence stood pale and trembling at the sight, confronted by a level of brutality they had only ever inflicted into the mind of others.


    Vlad''s transformation was cruel and brutal; the moment he lost his family, he lost his humanity.


    Each of his attacks grew more vicious, each victory marred by an insatiable thirst for retribution.


    No longer was he merely defending his homeland; he sought to shatter every part of the Ottoman Empire.


    Transylvania, once a land of breathtaking beauty, was now a haunting landscape strewn with the spiked remains of Vlad''s enemies.


    The vibrant greens of the rolling hills were choked by the shadows of death, the once-clear rivers stained red with the blood of countless foes.


    Even though their forces were minuscule compared to the Ottomans, the sheer brutality of Vlad''s tactics sent shockwaves through enemy ranks, spreading fear throughout their encampments and crushing their morale.


    Tales of his mercilessness rippled across the battlefield, creating a palpable tension that hung in the air like a storm cloud.


    The very mention of his name became synonymous with death, and the Ottomans found themselves haunted by nightmares of their fallen comrades, displayed as grim trophies of Vlad''s vengeance.


    The tides of battle slowly started to even out, shifting ever so slightly in favor of the forces of Transylvania.


    Yet, even when the Ottomans, sensing their vulnerability, offered a treaty to halt the bloodshed, Vlad''s response was resolute and unwavering.


    He declined without a moment''s hesitation, and the reason was simple yet profound.


    It wasn''t enough.


    The Ottomans hadn''t experienced enough of the pain Vlad had felt that day, the day he had clutched his two most precious people, watching as life slipped from their grasp.


    That haunting memory played on a relentless loop in his mind, an indelible mark that fueled his determination to continue the fight as he couldn''t consider halting the war; for him, peace meant betraying their memory.


    Radu stood helplessly by, witnessing the transformation of his brother as he saw the darkness encroaching, the vengeance consuming Vlad, yet he felt paralyzed by fear, or perhaps it was cowardice.


    Rather than confronting the monster his brother was becoming, he chose to assist him from the shadows, hoping that the brother he had once known would somehow reemerge from the depths of despair.


    But with each passing day, Vlad grew more distant, morphing into a vengeful force, driven by an insatiable thirst for power and retribution.


    It was during this tumultuous time that the vampiric monster Varnae crossed paths with Vlad, a creature of ancient darkness searching for someone to inherit his legacy.


    Varnae had grown weary of the living world and its relentless suffering, seeking a worthy successor who could carry on his sinister lineage.


    He found that in Vlad, who stood at the precipice of destruction, desperate and willing to do anything to avenge the ones he had lost.


    Varnae''s interest in Vlad was immediate and profound as to him, here was a young man ablaze with rage and sorrow, a soul teetering on the brink of transformation.


    Varnae saw not just a vessel for his power but a kindred spirit-


    "Hahahahahahahahaha!" Verdelet erupted into a fit of cackling, his laughter echoing through the room and slicing through Rachael''s narration like a hot knife through butter.


    "I-HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Veredelt struggled to even speak, his laughter barreling over his own coherent words.


    "I don''t understand the humor in Rachael''s words." Alexander interjected, his brow furrowed in confusion as he glanced at the slightly buzzed Ricky.


    "Don''t look at me, man. I''m just teetering in and out of this whole sob story." Ricky shrugged nonchalantly, clearly more interested in his wine than in the tragic tale of the Van Helsings.


    "What''s so funny, Verdelet?" Rachael squinted at the ancient vampire, her annoyance flaring as she watched him dissolve into hysterics at her words.


    "What''s funny is that your family still hasn''t realized the truth." Verdelet shook his head, a mix of disbelief and pity etched across his features as he regarded the naive girl.


    "Even I, who was once oblivious, eventually unraveled the layers of deception during my downtime. Yet the entire Van Helsing family remains blissfully ignorant of the fact that Dracula''s entire upbringing was meticulously orchestrated by Varnae." Veredelt clicked his tongue in disappointment, the sound echoing in the tense air as Rachael''s eyes widened in horror, her expression shifting from irritation to shock.


    "W-What?"


    "You see, you were right in saying that Varnae was searching for a successor." Verdelet sighed, adjusting his crisp white suit as he glanced at Ricky, who now wore an eager expression, clearly entertained.


    "But you failed to grasp that a millennium-old vampire wouldn''t just randomly hand over his entire legacy." Verdelet''s clarification took Rachael aback, her eyes widening as she processed his words but before she could respond, Ricky suddenly jumped between them


    "Oh, come on, Verdelet! You can''t leave me hanging like this!" Ricky chuckled, nudging the ancient vampire playfully, as if they were old friends sharing a joke.


    "Alright, since I''ve piqued your curiosity, it''s only fair that I satisfy it with the real story, or at least, from my first hand perspective."


    Veredelt''s Narration:


    You see, the Van Helsing perspective captures the chaos of those hysterical events, but in the realm of the supernatural, it was Varnae who was truly pulling the strings from the shadows.


    At that time, I hadn''t yet grasped the depths of my master''s weariness with his immortal existence; he yearned for death, an end to his endless suffering.


    But instead of choosing me, his first student, the very first person he ever turned, Varnae had a different vision.


    He sought to cultivate a successor from the ground up, meticulously crafting a legacy that would transcend the mere act of transformation.


    It was a grand design, one that involved patience and strategy, all while I remained blissfully unaware of the true depths of his intentions.


    The requirements were simple: Varnae sought a successor born into human royalty, for in his mind, to rule a kingdom, one must be bred from its noble stock.


    However, Varnae was a notoriously picky vampire, waiting for centuries before he finally stumbled upon Vlad, not in Transylvania, but within the Ordo Draconum.


    It was mere curiosity at first, a flicker of interest sparked by the young man''s relentless pursuit of success in everything he undertook.


    Vlad''s tenacity and ambition bloomed like a rare flower in Varnae''s eyes, awakening a desire within him.


    He saw not just a potential successor, but a vessel through which he could channel his own legacy, an opportunity to mold someone who could carry forth his name and influence long after he was gone.


    The more Varnae observed Vlad, the deeper his desire to turn him grew, yet even that wasn''t enough.


    Varnae understood that to truly shape a ruler fit for the future vampiric empire, he needed to instill within Vlad an insatiable hunger for power.


    It wasn''t enough for Vlad to simply want; he needed to crave it with a desperation that could drive him to the very brink of madness.


    Varnae had lost that fire long ago, and he was determined to ensure that Vlad would possess an unending thirst, a relentless ambition to push the vampiric race forward.


    He knew that only through pain and suffering could this drive be forged and by orchestrating Vlad''s descent into darkness, Varnae aimed to create a ruler who would embody the ferocity and hunger necessary to lead their kind.


    So, he orchestrated the Ottomans'' actions, manipulating events to ensure that Vlad''s father met his end on the battlefield.


    This brutal loss pushed Vlad to the brink, forcing him to abandon his loved ones in a desperate bid to reclaim control and turn the tide of war.


    In his darkest hour, when Vlad was at his lowest, Varnae whispered to the commanders, igniting a fire of chaos that left Vlad reeling.


    Overwhelmed by grief and rage, he was left clutching the lifeless bodies of his wife and son, his heart shattered into irreparable pieces.


    It was then that Varnae, lurking in the shadows, extended his hand toward Vlad, offering the power he so desperately craved.


    With a voice like velvet and promises of vengeance, Varnae tempted Vlad with the very strength that could alter the course of his fate, igniting the insatiable thirst for power that would forever change him.


    When I observed this, I initially believed Varnae intended to mold Vlad into a mere pawn, a tool to further his own ambitions.


    But to my astonishment, he began to guide Vlad with genuine intent.


    He taught him the intricacies of leadership, encouraging him to better himself in ways I had never witnessed before and I must admit, at the time, it ignited a deep-seated jealousy within me.


    I had followed Varnae as my master for twenty thousand years, yet not once had he offered me such heartfelt guidance.


    His attention to Vlad was as if he were nurturing a son rather than cultivating a successor.


    It was a strange twist of fate, watching someone else receive the kind of mentorship I had yearned for, the kind that had always felt just out of reach.


    As Vlad flourished under Varnae''s tutelage, I was left in the shadows, grappling with my own feelings of inadequacy and longing for the recognition I had never truly received.


    It was then that Varnae whispered to the vast Ottoman army, orchestrating a last-ditch effort to invade Transylvania in one fell swoop.


    As the looming threat approached, Vlad found himself in a state of desperation, his resolve faltering under the weight of the imminent disaster.


    Witnessing the sheer size of the Ottoman forces firsthand, 300,000 strong compared to his own scattered 50,000, left him with no choice but to confront the grim reality: he faced complete defeat unless a miracle occurred.


    I still remember his begging pleas that echoed through the air, desperate in all measures for the power Varnae was loading over him.


    Finally, after a moment that felt like an eternity, Varnae, intrigued and satisfied by Vlad''s desperation, responded to his pleas.


    Then, without any hesitation, Varnae offered to switch their states of being, to trade each other''s lives. I was shocked, left utterly speechless by the words spilling from my master''s mouth. I instinctively opened my mouth to voice my objections, but before I could utter a sound, Vlad eagerly accepted the offer.


    At that moment, Varnae finally revealed his true desires to me, telling me he had no longer wished to live; his immortal existence had grown tiresome.


    Instead of feeling sorrow for his plight, I felt an intense wave of betrayal wash over me.


    The bond we shared, built over twenty millennia, was suddenly overshadowed by this monumental decision.


    Varnae''s yearning for death now hung heavily in the air, an unspoken dagger between us, and I realized that I was losing not just my master but the very essence of what I had fought to understand all these years.


    This revelation struck me like a thunderbolt. For all the years Varnae had spent molding Vlad, he had left me completely in the dark about his true intentions. When I tried to voice my thoughts, he simply initiated the spell, disregarding my protests.


    To truly die, Varnae needed to trade his power for another''s mortality, a transaction that would free him from the eternal shackles of life.


    As the incantation unfolded, I felt a shiver run through me, an unsettling recognition that I could not intervene.


    I was powerless as I watched my master''s formidable powers inject themselves into Vlad, transferring centuries of knowledge and strength into the very man who would become his successor.


    Each pulse of energy that flowed between them felt like a betrayal, a final severing of our bond.


    I could only stand by, consumed by a sense of helplessness as the inevitable took shape before my eyes.


    That was the moment Vlad Tepesh died, and in his place, Dracula was born, forever altering the course of history.


    As the spell reached its completion, Varnae took his own life, leaving me reeling in disbelief.


    Heartbroken, I rushed to my master''s side, but it was too late to save him as he passed away with a serene smile on his face, a stark contrast to the chaos that surrounded us.


    Dracula, consumed by the newly acquired power coursing through him, was oblivious to the tragedy that had just unfolded.


    In a whirlwind of ambition and rage, he took off to confront the forces of the Ottoman Empire, ready to unleash a vengeance that would shake the very foundations of their empire.


    The world would soon know the name Dracula, but in that moment, I mourned the loss of my master, knowing that nothing would ever be the same again, that I would never be the same.


    That battle was a bloody and cruel affair, as Dracula unleashed his newfound power with a ferocity that obliterated the opposing army.


    The ground was soaked with the blood of the fallen, and the cries of the dying echoed in the air as he carved through ranks of soldiers, each strike fueled by his insatiable thirst for revenge.


    Yet, as the last remnants of the Ottoman forces fled in terror, Dracula''s euphoria was short-lived.


    When he sought to chase after them, a harsh realization dawned upon him: there were side effects to his overwhelming strength.


    Unlike Varnae, whose constitution dated back to Atlantis and had been honed over millennia to withstand such immense power, Dracula was still very much human at his core.


    The toll of his transformation began to manifest as waves of exhaustion washed over him, and a deep ache settled in his bones as if the very essence of his being was rebelling against the power he had just gained.


    Dracula had barely dabbled in the realms of magic, and in Varnae''s haste, my master had overlooked a critical aspect: Dracula''s mortal body.


    The transformation had granted him immense power, but it had also revealed his vulnerabilities, which were far greater than anyone had anticipated.


    To make matters worse, Dracula couldn''t utilize magic during the day, a fundamental limitation that most vampires understood but he had yet to grasp.


    As the sun rose, its harsh light would serve as a constant reminder of his frailty.


    In that moment of newfound strength, he had forgotten that, like all vampires, he was subject to a myriad of special vulnerabilities.


    His most pressing weakness was the need for sustenance; he had to ingest about one quart of fresh blood daily to maintain his vitality.


    The hunger gnawed at him, a stark contrast to the power surging through his veins and without nourishment, the very strength he had gained would become a double-edged sword, threatening to turn into a debilitating curse.


    Otherwise, his powers will steadily decrease to the point where he enters a comatose state.


    Dracula was highly allergic to silver, a fact that could lead to severe injury or even death if he encountered silver weaponry.


    Yet, it was in the aftermath of the battle that his unprepared body began to reveal its frailties.


    He could be killed by a wooden stake plunged into his heart, a simple act that could disrupt the mystical energies sustaining his life.


    Another shackle of his existence was the necessity of lining his coffin with soil from his homeland, a crucial element that not only preserved his power but also allowed him to travel more than a hundred miles from his birthplace without suffering debilitating effects.


    When Dracula finally returned to his castle, he did not find a welcoming parade or celebratory cheers.


    Instead, he was met with horror-filled expressions that reflected the monstrous transformation he had undergone.


    The very people he had fought to protect recoiled at the sight of him, a chilling reminder of the price of his newfound power.


    Radu had fled the battlefield, his heart heavy with fear and disbelief at the horrors Dracula now embodied.


    Desperate for solace, he rode to the nearest church, dismounting and falling to his knees upon the cold stone floor.


    In that sacred space, he made a vow upon his bloodline: one day, he would kill his brother.


    In exchange for his unwavering commitment, God bestowed upon him a surge of power, marking him as an agent of divine retribution.


    From that moment forward, Radu''s bloodline would remain in purgatory, bound to his mission until it was fulfilled.


    Thus, the name Van Helsing was born and with it came the innate magic that would course through their veins, empowering them to battle against Dracula time and again.


    During that tumultuous time, Dracula sought ways to overcome the immense weakness and truly wield the overwhelming power that Varnae had bestowed upon him.


    The world''s science felt woefully inadequate for the task at hand, so he turned his attention to hunting down ancient artifacts rumored to hold great power.


    He believed that with the right relics, he could augment his abilities and stabilize the overwhelming magic coursing through him.


    As the years passed, with him finding solutions to combat these weaknesses, Dracula discovered a harsh truth: his core was unable to fully handle the magnitude of Varnae''s gifts.


    Like most vampires, he relied on core magic, a system that allowed them to draw power from the vitality of others.


    However, this method proved insufficient for the level of strength of the core he had possessed and molded himself.


    Yet, amidst his struggles, there existed one family that uniquely specialized in this elusive form of magic


    "The Van Helsings." Rachael''s breath caught in her throat as she grasped the implications of Veredelt''s words.


    "Yes, it''s rather cruel." Veredelt continued, shaking his head with a calm smile.


    "Dracula allowed your family to roam free, herding them like cattle until a suitable core came along in the form of Abraham." Veredelt''s eyes looked towards the pale Rachael, holding her face at the sudden shock as even Ricky felt a tab bit uncomfortable at this sudden revelation.


    "However, Abraham''s power was far more than Dracula had anticipated, catching him completely off guard. But in the end, his core was harvested, and Dracula began enacting his plan of conquest through sheer power." Veredelt''s calm, unsettling voice cut through the room, breaking Rachael a little further with each word uttered.


    "It''s true, I seek to rule the world as well." Veredelt said, his tone shifting, smooth yet laced with a sharp edge.


    "But I don''t aim to do it through brute strength like Dracula. No, I''ll accomplish it through knowledge and progression." Veredelt leaned toward Rachael, studying her reaction with an intensity that made her uneasy as she could feel his words pulling at her, though doubt flickered in her mind.


    "Listen, little Van Helsing." Veredelt continued, his voice a low murmur at this point.


    "Every vampire has an obsession. Mine is knowledge." Veredelt paused, a hint of something both proud and haunted crossing his face.


    "It is my greatest blessing and at the same time, my greatest curse." Veredelt then crossed his fingers together, leaning back after expression everything he thought was needed.


    In truth, Veredelt''s mind was both a gift and a torment as knowledge was not merely a pursuit for him; it was a compulsion, an insatiable hunger that gnawed at him day and night.


    Veredelt was unable to rest if even a single question lay unanswered.


    This need consumed him, filling his waking hours with endless inquiry and his nights with relentless reflection.


    Each piece of knowledge he amassed felt like a step toward a distant, impossible goal, one he could never fully reach.


    At night, when most beings found respite in the quiet, Veredelt''s mind raced, entangled in webs of questions that multiplied like shadows.


    If he left even one query unresolved, it would creep into his thoughts, lingering and festering until it forced him to get up, pacing as he searched for understanding.


    The silence of unanswered questions was louder to him than any roar and for a long time, it haunted him like a shadow.


    But Veredelt eventually learned to not simply let that shadow loom, but embrace it for everything it was and wasn''t.


    "I understand your hesitation." Veredelt said, his tone gentle yet firm, gazing at Rachael silently stewing before him.


    "But no matter how many vampires you kill, there will always be another to take its place. It is simply the rule of nature, power shifts, yet it never vanishes." Veredelt sighed, observing the young Van Helsing with a mix of pity and amusement, as though Rachael were a child struggling to grasp a truth far beyond her years.


    In his ancient gaze, her resistance seemed almost quaint, a small ripple against the unyielding tide of time and power.


    Veredelt had witnessed countless rises to power, but even more crushing falls, each one brimming with bold ideals that, in the end, washed away with the sands of time.


    The ambitious and the idealists, the conquerors and the crusaders; they all came and went, leaving behind little more than echoes, their lofty visions eroded by the relentless grind of years and mortality.


    To him, it was almost comical.


    No matter how fervently each believed in their purpose, how tightly they clung to their convictions, in the end, they succumbed, their dreams dissolving like mist.


    Power was a fleeting ember, one that could only burn if carefully tended but vanish in a moment''s notice.


    He had learned this truth the hard way, watching generations blink into obscurity, while he remained, untouched by time, as unyielding as the night itself.


    "You got my vote, Veredelt." Ricky tipped an invisible cap in the vampire''s direction, his words mocking towards Rachael but sincere towards him.


    Veredelt let out a low, amused chuckle, watching the young man with a glint of both curiosity and bemusement as he took a hearty swig, draining the last of the bottle


    "However, unlike Dracula, who covets the power of a king." Veredelt''s voice took on a deeper, almost hypnotic tone.


    "I desire notoriety to sway others to my ideals. Influence that seeps beneath the surface, subtle, yet unyielding." Veredelt paused, his gaze settling on Rachael and Ricky, as if assessing whether they could grasp the weight of his words.


    "Dracula''s reign, born of brute strength, may command fear, but it leaves no room for growth, no evolution of thought. " Veredelt continued, a faint, almost wistful smile crossing his lips.


    "True power lies in shaping minds, in guiding rather than conquering." Veredelt spoke his belief, seeing Rachael duck his head only for Ricky to perk up.


    "That''s funny." Ricky muttered, his gaze locking onto Veredelt''s with a new, sharpened intensity.


    "Dracula once told me that true power lies in those willing to do anything to achieve it."


    The words seemed seared into Ricky''s mind, as though they had carved themselves into his soul over these years of struggle and survival.


    Dracula''s philosophy had been a guiding shadow in Ricky''s life, haunting his every decision.


    Even in the wake of his brutal defeat, Ricky could see the bitter wisdom in Dracula''s perspective, finding a grim sense of respect for the vampire''s ruthless clarity.


    He hadn''t merely brushed off Dracula''s teachings; he had absorbed them, building his own ideals upon the foundation of that harsh lesson and understood something.


    Ricky had come to realize that many of his failures had stemmed from a gnawing fear, fear of death, fear of the obstacle that loomed at the edge of mortality.


    But he had changed, evolved past that primal instinct to shrink away from death.


    Now, his resolve was ironclad: he would do whatever it took to kill Dracula and claim his own power.


    Yet the years had taught him something that Dracula''s relentless pursuit of strength had not.


    Through the losses, the scars, the relentless march of time, Ricky had learned that there was a force beyond raw power, a foundation stronger than any conquest.


    Growth; true, personal, unyielding growth that was the key to transcending any mere gain in strength.


    This was the man he''s become from everything he had suffered under, and as Veredelt spoke, Ricky felt a kindred spark, a new ideal forming from the ashes of his past ambitions.


    Hearing Veredelt''s perspective, so vastly different yet strangely compelling, he unconsciously leaned forward, his interest now fully piqued.


    "Dracula''s words have merit, but in my honest opinion, it is the mind that guides us towards every decision." Veredelt smiled, relishing the opportunity for discourse as he leaned in, his tone both conspiratorial and enlightening.


    "Every part of our body is a mere extension of who we truly are. The brain is the crucible in which our desires, fears, and ambitions are forged. It is not enough to possess power; one must also wield it with cunning and strategy." Veredelt paused, gauging Ricky''s reaction, the weight of his words hanging in the air like a tangible force.


    "You see, true mastery lies not in the pursuit of raw strength alone, but in the ability to navigate the intricate web of choices and consequences that life presents us. Power is a tool, yes, but a mind capable of foresight can wield that tool with unparalleled effectiveness." Veredelt explained his reasoning, going in depth into his words as Ricky nodded, absorbing the implications of Veredelt''s insights.


    "Dracula thrived on fear and dominance." Veredelt continued, his voice low and reflective.


    "He built an empire upon the terror he inspired, but such a foundation is precarious. Fear can turn to rebellion, and strength can falter when not supported by wisdom. You must ask yourself: What is your true desire? Is it merely to vanquish Dracula, or is there something greater you seek?" Veredelt purposely made this question hang in the air.


    Announcing it in such a way that Ricky felt the weight of it settle on his shoulders, urging him to dig deeper within himself.


    Yes, he wanted to defeat Dracula, but was that all?


    What would victory mean if it wasn''t coupled with growth, understanding, and a vision for a world beyond the bloody struggle for survival?


    Would there be a power vacuum when Dracula was slain and in such a case, what would Ricky do in such an event if he was going to return to New York?


    "Power without purpose is a hollow victory." Veredelt added, his eyes sparkling with an almost predatory intelligence.


    "What will you do once you''ve toppled your enemy? Will you merely take his place, or will you forge a new path entirely? How will you simply leave after displacing the ruling power?" Veredelt then asked Ricky various questions, letting the conversation take control of him.


    "It is easy to win, even easier to kill, but when the adderline fades and you are left with the aftermath of your decisions. What will you do then?" Veredelt then smiled, leaning back as he closed his eyes.


    "It is good if you start thinking about it now since, although I''m not saying victory is completely headed your way, it would be good for you to think on your next course of actions." Veredelt then tapped his head, looking at Ricky mulling over his words.


    "I-I need time to ponder," Rachael stammered, her voice trembling as she shot up from her seat, feeling overwhelmed by the weight of Veredelt''s revelations.


    She needed space, a quiet corner where she could sort through everything that had been thrust upon her.


    "Very well, take the time you need. I will be here, awaiting your answer." Veredelt inclined his head in acknowledgment, his expression calm yet watchful.


    Rachael nodded stiffly, her gaze lingering on him before she turned to leave, vanishing into the shadows and as the door shut behind her, Ricky also rose, stretching with a yawn.


    "Well, I''m gonna hit the sack, I''m beat. See you later." Ricky muttered, waving casually, ready to retreat into whatever semblance of rest he could find.


    But just as he moved to leave, Veredelt''s hand extended toward him, holding out a small, ornate object, no larger than his palm.


    It glinted under the moonlight streaming through the window, casting a pale, almost sinister glow across the room.


    "Even if she hasn''t accepted yet, this is still a key to my hoards. Should you ever wish to enter, simply break it, and a portal will open before you."" Veredelt murmured, his smile gleaming with an unsettling edge.


    Ricky took the object cautiously, the intricate designs etched into its surface seemed to pulse faintly, as if alive.


    As Veredelt''s hand withdrew, his figure seemed to merge with the moonlit shadows, his eyes glinting with an unreadable depth.


    "I''ll be waiting for your call."


    "Thanks, I guess-wait, where did you go?" Ricky spun around, only to find that Veredelt had already disappeared, vanishing into the shadows as if he''d never been there.


    With a shrug, Ricky pocketed the mysterious object, deciding to set his questions aside for now.


    Come on, cat, let''s go," Ricky muttered, reaching down and scooping up the rotund feline, who only offered a half-hearted sigh.


    "So soft~" Ricky muttered, his voice softened by the slight buzz from earlier drinks as he pressed his face into Garfield''s dense, warm fur.


    "Get your gross nose out of my fur-" Garfield grumbled, sounding thoroughly unimpressed with the whole ordeal.


    But his complaint was abruptly cut off by a loud, sudden whoosh as a portal swirled open, filling Ricky''s room with a strange, shifting light.


    Ricky''s head snapped up, eyes widening as he watched the portal solidify in midair.


    Through the spiraling flickering energy, a figure began to emerge, stepping forward with deliberate, steady strides.


    Ricky squinted, blinking away the haze of intoxication to make sense of who, or what, was entering his space.


    "Hello Ricky Luciano, may we converse for a while?"

 Chapter 97 - 95: The Ancient One

    Chapter 97: Chapter 95: The Ancient One


    "No."


    Ricky plopped onto the bed, his round form nestled beside Garfield, who merely blinked with a hint of annoyance.


    However at the side, Alexander, eyes wide with wonder while the gerbil''s little heart raced with excitement, though, captivated by the imposing presence now filling the room.


    He inched forward to the edge of the bed, tiny paws gripping the blanket as he gazed up in awe.


    "Ancient One, is that truly you?" Alexander asked, his voice barely a whisper, laced with a mix of reverence and disbelief.


    The Ancient One''s gaze fell on the small creature, impassive at first until she truly looked towards the creature and upon realization, a rare flicker of emotion crossed that normally impassive face.


    Her eyes widened, and within their ancient depths, the ghostly image of a child''s innocent smile seemed to flicker, a memory buried deep, resurfacing with a bittersweet pang.


    She took a slow, deliberate step closer, her silhouette haloed by the dim light of the room.


    For a moment, it seemed as if time itself paused, letting her memory linger, as though recognizing in Alexander a spark she had thought long extinguished.


    "Little Alexander?" The Ancient One''s voice softened, disbelief and wonder threading through her words.


    She knelt, bending closer as if the small distance might unravel the truth in her vision as her eyes, which had seen centuries drift by, searched the gerbil''s curious face, looking beyond the fur and small form to something timeless.


    When she met his gaze once more, she felt the unmistakable presence of a soul she once knew, a familiar warmth that had persisted through the ages, against all odds.


    Her mind reeled, filled with visions of a life long past, of laughter and innocence now all but forgotten and yet here it was, enduring and whole, in the form of this small creature.


    "Y-Yes, it''s me." Alexander whispered, his voice wavering, as tiny paws shifted, walking onto her palm as she raised him up.


    "But Hades took your soul, I saw him drag you personally and-"


    "And now I''m here, Grandmaster." Alexander scratched the back of his neck, his tiny paws tracing a circle through his fur as he bowed.


    Despite his gerbil form, the elegance of his old self remained intact as his smile softened as he looked up at her, a blend of reverence and nostalgia gleaming in his eyes.


    "I never imagined we would reunite like this-...I thought we might meet again, yes, but only in the silence after my final breaths." The Ancient One admitted, her voice both warm and weary, as if the confession itself had been locked away for ages.


    "As did I, Grandmaster. But wasn''t it you who always said ''Life can be strange, can it not''? Alexander chuckled, tilting his head while his eyes glimmered with both mischief and melancholy.


    "Indeed." The Ancient One let out a small laugh, brushing away some of the whiskers on his face.


    "But why didn''t you come to me, Alexander?" The Ancient One''s voice grew firmer with each word, an old authority slowly shifting back into place.


    "Why did you stay hidden, isolate yourself? Why didn''t you reach out?" The Ancient One let out one question after another, her calm slipping as a surge of sternness took over.


    "I thought it was your way of protecting the timeline, that you left me alone to preserve stability-"


    "Oh, heavens no, Alexander. I never intended to abandon you. My choices weren''t to keep you distant or erased." The Ancient One''s face softened, interrupting the gerbil with her words were tender now, as though each one carried a part of her apology, of unspoken regrets.


    "Ugh, Alexander, who is this?" Ricky mumbled, his voice thick with sleep as he squinted through the dim light.


    He was still half-cradling Garfield, who was squirming to free himself from Ricky''s sleepy grip.


    "Ah, my apologies, where are my manners?" Alexander looked between the Ancient One and Ricky, realizing he hadn''t offered a single introduction.


    *Ahem*


    "This, Ricky, is my master''s master, the Sorcerer Supreme and protector of this world, the Ancient One." Alexander declared with reverence, glancing back at the Ancient One, who took in the situation with a discerning gaze.


    "Uh huh." Ricky''s eyes drooped as he nodded, barely awake, before his head bobbed forward, clearly struggling to stay conscious as the Ancient One''s brow lifted as she observed his underwhelming reaction.


    "Have you not spoken of my existence?" The Ancient One asked Alexander, an eyebrow raised in mild disbelief at the drowsy dismissal.


    "By the gods, no, Grandmaster!" Alexander quickly replied, bowing with deep respect.


    "I would never reveal the secrets of Kamar-Taj without your permission." Alexander said firmly, a flicker of conviction lighting his small, dark eyes.


    Though he now served as Ricky''s familiar, his being held deeper roots, promises and loyalties bound to a time before Ricky ever entered his new life.


    Alexander was indeed a faithful companion, always ready to lend his wisdom and loyalty, yet he was unmistakably his own being.


    Alexander''s soul bore the echoes of his former life as Alexander the Great, a legacy steeped in conquest, ambition, and an unwavering commitment to principles he''d long ago shaped for himself.


    That unyielding character, the very thing that had forged him as a formidable leader centuries past, was precisely what Ricky found invaluable.


    Alexander wasn''t simply a magical companion who would follow Ricky''s every whim.


    He was a soul honed by trial, seasoned by experience, and molded by a personal code that, despite being centuries old, still guided him.


    For Ricky, having Alexander by his side was more than just practical; it was essential.


    Ricky understood that loyalty wasn''t about blind devotion but about standing with someone while still being willing to tell them hard truths.


    Alexander wasn''t afraid to challenge Ricky''s views, to remind him of consequences, and to speak the difficult words that others might shy away from saying.


    This wasn''t the loyalty of a subordinate, but the bond of two beings who both held their own identities and values, intersecting in purpose but never fully merging.


    And while Ricky knew that Alexander held secrets from a past life, he found a strange comfort in it.


    He himself harbored secrets that he would likely never share with Alexander, memories and intentions he held close.


    In that sense, their relationship was built on a mutual respect for the unspoken boundaries of identity.


    Demanding that Alexander lay bare every part of himself would have felt unreasonable, even hypocritical after everything Alexander had done for him.


    Instead, Ricky accepted Alexander''s loyalty, strengths, and even his mysteries, grateful to have a companion who stood with him through thick and thin, not as an extension of himself, but as a distinct, steadfast ally.


    "It troubles me." The Ancient One said softly, petting the top of Alexander''s head.


    "Not that you kept the secret, but that you felt you had to." The Ancient One''s gaze softened as she continued."


    Secrets, Alexander, can become their own form of prison." The Ancient One broke into a smile, lecturing Alexander even in this state as his small face furrowed with surprise, her words lingering.


    "I had thought to protect your legacy and Kamar-Taj itself, by preserving all that was entrusted to me." Alexander admitted, his tone sincere yet conflicted.


    "But perhaps, I did not see the way it bound me." Alexander saw the error through her wisdom while The Ancient One nodded gently.


    "Holding onto knowledge is a great duty, yet when it isolates us, even our own wisdom can become a burden." The Ancient One''s gaze drifted to Ricky, now lightly snoring against Garfield''s fur, who had finally surrendered to his fate.


    "And yet, sometimes, new paths reveal themselves in the most unguarded of moments."


    "I''m afraid I''m troubled at this moment, little Alexander." The Ancient One confessed, her voice heavy as she took a quiet seat next to the table, her gaze distant.


    Her calm was usual, yet there was a note of genuine disturbance that hadn''t been there before.


    "Why, grandmaster?" Alexander asked, instinctively straightening in her hand.


    "Surely you jest that my presence was a surprise." Alexander asked, knowing that the being before him could glimpse into the very reality before them.


    But as he looked up, he caught the somber glint in her eye and immediately grew wary.


    "No, little Alexander." The Ancient One said quietly, almost to herself, trying to find the proper words before continuing.


    "The reason I wanted to meet Ricky Luciano is because his entire presence is an anomaly, a blip on the stone." The Ancient One''s words struck Alexander like a chill as he was no stranger to mysteries, but this was beyond the usual veil of secrecy.


    "T-That is impossible, he couldn''t be unless-" Alexander started, but his voice wavered as a dark realization began to dawn.


    "Yes, little Alexander." The Ancient One said, setting him down gently, her touch soft but her gaze severe.


    "He is changing the timeline." The Ancient One confirmed his thoughts, leaving the gerbil utterly confused.


    Alexander''s mind spun, the weight of her words pressing down on him like a tide.


    It was known that the Time Stone held the omniscient capacity to witness all that had been and would be, yet there were exceptions, cosmic rules so fundamental they were rarely mentioned, only whispered about in the old texts.


    The stone could not see what did not belong to the timeline, what wasn''t of this universe''s design.


    The fact that Ricky was unknowable to it meant that his path, his choices, weren''t written into the fabric of their world.


    Any Time Stone from any universe possesses the ability to see its own timeline because it is intrinsically linked to the essence of that universe. It weaves the narrative of all that has been and all that will be, functioning as a guardian of fate and time. Yet, with every passing year, the future has begun to blur¡ªa haze settling over what was once clear.


    The Ancient One pondered the reason for this distortion, her mind racing through countless possibilities.


    The first could be her own demise as she understood the role she played in maintaining the balance of time, and her absence would undoubtedly create ripples, disruptions that could lead to unforeseen chaos.


    However, there was another, perhaps more disturbing thought: the timeline itself was altering, actively erasing the vision she had cultivated through decades of vigilance.


    The very act of alteration was a force that pushed back against her foresight, a rebellion against the natural order.


    It was a phenomenon she had sensed but struggled to fully grasp, how the threads of fate twisted and turned in ways she could not predict.


    Ricky, with his unpredictable essence, was part of this growing tempest, a catalyst for change that could unravel the very fabric of their reality.


    As the Ancient One contemplated the implications, she felt a weight in her heart.


    "What of-"


    "Their involvement disappeared three hundred years ago from this time stream, which is why I''m here to find the source. I''ve waited long enough." The Ancient One interjected, her voice a blend of urgency and determination.


    She approached the sleeping Ricky, the weight of her mission heavy in the air.


    As she stood over him, her ancient eyes studied the young man whose very presence felt like a rift in reality while he lay sprawled across the bed, his face relaxed in sleep,


    *THOOM*


    With a sudden jolt, Ricky''s spirit was expelled from his body, leaving behind the warm cocoon of drunkenness and sleep.


    His consciousness erupted into the ethereal realm, and confusion washed over him like a cold wave.


    The familiar contours of his bedroom faded into darkness, replaced by swirling energies and shimmering lights that danced just beyond his reach.


    "What the f*ck-"


    "Good evening, Ricky Luciano. Let me introduce myself once more, since I''m sure you were too drunk to completely comprehend my previous words." The Ancient One''s voice resonated through the void, authoritative yet soothing, drawing Ricky''s attention back to her.


    "I am called The Ancient One, the Sorcerer Supreme and protector of this world." The Ancient One''s presence was imposing, filled with centuries of wisdom and power, and Ricky found himself confused as he gazed down at his slumped body.


    He could see Garfield struggling beneath him, the fat cat squirming and letting out indignant meows as if trying to escape the weight of Ricky''s unconscious form.


    "Hey Baldy, I don''t know what you did, but there''s gonna be some issues if you don''t tell me why the hell I''m floating above my own body." Ricky demanded, his irritation bubbling over.


    Alexander gasped, eyes wide in shock at Ricky''s rudeness, as if he had never witnessed this side of him before.


    "It seems you lack manners-" The Ancient One began, her voice steady, but her words were cut short as Ricky''s frustration manifested into a physical attack.


    *BAM*


    "Oh?"


    Chains slammed against the hardwood floor, materializing from the void as Ricky''s spirit body instinctively fought back.


    The Ancient One moved with a grace that belied her age, dodging each swing of his ethereal chains with ease, her eyes sharp and calculating as they followed the chains.


    "You can use your power within your spirit body, but can you use your mutant abilities?" she questioned, her tone a mix of curiosity and challenge.


    Ricky felt the pressure build in his chest, an overwhelming urge to unleash his powers and yet, just as he prepared to strike again, she placed a finger against his neck, stopping him cold.


    "I suppose not." The Ancient One mused, her gaze icy as she held him in place, her finger pressing just enough to remind him of his vulnerability.


    "Do it." Ricky insisted, raising his gaze to meet The Ancient One, his defiance unwavering even in the face of her immense power.


    He stood as if uncaring whether she snuffed out his life in an instant though deep down, he was looking behind her at his system wondering what powers he could use to combat in this sudden state.


    ''I''ll use Ethereal Sanctuary to protect my real body while I-


    "YOUNG RICKY!" Alexander yelled, his tiny voice laced with fury as he struggled to comprehend the gravity of the situation.


    "Do you think I won''t?" The Ancient One pressed her fingers deeper into Ricky''s ethereal neck, the pressure firm but not yet breaking the skin.


    "You came here for a reason, and if it was to kill me, you''d have already done it. You''re obviously way more powerful than me." Ricky shrugged off the pain, maintaining his defiance though continuing to plan out his next move.


    "Correct." The Ancient One replied coolly, her tone unyielding.


    "I merely wish to talk to an irregularity that shouldn''t exist yet clearly stands before me, still altering my world''s timeline." The Ancient One took a step back, releasing Ricky from her hold, her expression shifting to one of calm curiosity.


    "Ha, what makes it your world?" Ricky shot back, arms crossed, a smirk playing on his lips.


    "When you protect something for long enough, Ricky Luciano, you tend to grow quite attached to it. Perhaps a tad bit materialistic." The Ancient One regarded him with a knowing smile, chuckling at the irony within her words.


    "Alright, fine, but did you really have to hit me out of my body?" Ricky relented, rolling his eyes as he executed a somersault mid-air, flipping effortlessly as he hovered above the ground, earning a raised brow from The Ancient One.


    "Would we have been able to have a decent conversation in person?" The Ancient One countered, her tone both light and serious.


    "Good point." Ricky shrugged, his bravado softening slightly as he floated back down, settling himself in mid-air, a few feet from the table where The Ancient One had taken a seat.


    "But it''s still a dick move." Ricky crossed his arms, his spiritual form sitting at the table with a slight frown.


    "Then I will apologize for my actions being a ''dick move''." The Ancient One genuinely apologized, understanding the recklessness in her actions and swiftly owning up to them.


    "Now, the reason I am here is to simply satiate the curiosity I have regarding how you even exist, including how there are similar blips that span longer than they should," The Ancient One spoke, her voice measured and calm, choosing her words carefully.


    "But let us talk about the time you''ve already experienced since revealing outside the timeline might disrupt it even further." The Ancient One spoke without saying too much, surveying Ricky''s being.


    "Alright, I guess?" Ricky replied, his brow furrowed in confusion as he glanced at Alexander, who was staring daggers at him, clearly not pleased with his flippant attitude.


    "First off, Ricky Luciano, you were originally supposed to die in that alleyway as Ricky Freeman. Yet you not only survived but have become a disrupting force within the world." The Ancient One''s tone was serious, her eyes boring into Ricky as if searching for answers.


    "If you''re asking me how I survived that alleyway, then I don''t know what to tell you." Ricky said, the irritation evident in his voice as he crossed his arms.


    However, instead of altering her approach, she merely nodded and leaned back, her expression shifting to one of greater seriousness.


    "Originally, this situation was going to be different. In fact, it was to start with a different lecture until I realized that you were being guided by little Alexander." The Ancient One replied honestly, having an entire lecture planned out only for everything to change with the appearance of Alexander.


    "However much like the things around you, everything has changed since I didn''t even realize that I can not only not see the ones around you, but even comprehend how you managed to steal Alexander''s soul from Hades grasp." The Ancient One spoke, knowing that Hades must be furiously looking around for one of the prized souls in his collection.


    "Much to think of, very much indeed." The Ancient one tapped the desk wondering what to do with Ricky.


    At first, she intended to properly assess whether this threat to the timeline would affect the Earth and the universe in its entirety.


    But everything had once again changed, ironic given the reason for her arrival.


    The Ancient One found herself in a dilemma, grappling with the reality that the very nature of Ricky''s existence was intertwined with Alexander''s, an unexpected bond that complicated her original evaluation.


    Even if she didn''t want to, The Ancient One had to reevaluate how she would proceed.


    Alexander, though a warmonger, had been nurtured by one of her students, instilled with values that echoed the teachings of Kamar-Taj.


    His past was a tapestry of conflict and valor, a testament to his strength, but also to the complexities of his character.


    She recalled attending his funeral, a solemn occasion where she had commended him for his countless battles, not only fought for himself but also for the survival of humanity.


    "May I give my input, Grandmaster?" Alexander asked humbly, intruding into their conversation with a respectful plea.


    "Please do."


    *Ahem*


    "Although my former disciple, now comrade, is a lustful, narcissistic, boastful-" Alexander began, listing off all of his cons with a flourish, which made Ricky''s eyebrow twitch in annoyance from the side.


    "He poses no risk to kill off humanity, let alone the world, since Ricky is too selfish to give up all the luxuries humanity brings him." Alexander revealed his own observations with Ricky, found himself actually nodding along.


    Ricky relished the comforts of his life; the flashy cars, the lavish parties, the intoxicating thrill of power.


    It was difficult to argue against the notion that he was, indeed, more interested in enjoying his own existence than in ushering in an apocalypse.


    Ricky was many things; a mobster, a womanizer, and undeniably selfish, but that didn''t mean he wanted to rid the world of humanity.


    In a weird way, he needed humanity.


    All the things he cherished, from the intoxicating allure of beautiful women to the luxurious bottles of fine whiskey that flowed freely, stemmed from the very essence of human existence.


    It was the chaotic, flawed nature of humanity that fueled his desires and ambitions.


    Yet, for all his extravagant tastes and indulgent lifestyle, he wasn''t the type of person to build his own house.


    No, Ricky preferred to throw money at others and order them to do it for him.


    "I understand your opinion, little Alexander, I really do." The Ancient One began, her voice steady yet tinged with concern.


    "But my problem isn''t with his actions. It''s the fact that I cannot perceive the impending future-"


    "So let me get this straight." Ricky interrupted, a smirk creeping onto his face.


    "You''re mad that I stopped you from being a control freak?" Ricky''s bluntness hung in the air, and both The Ancient One and Alexander looked at him in disbelief.


    "Ricky is isn''t that simple-"


    "I mean, why can''t it be?" Ricky leaned on the table, his boldness catching The Ancient One off guard.


    "Things are only complicated that way if you make it complicated. Why can''t you just ease up?" Ricky leaned back, shrugging as if the simplicity of his statement could transcend the weight of their conversation.


    His answer felt flawed yet, paradoxically, so sound that any retort would only serve to complicate the very question he posed which would in turn, prove him right.


    "Ricky Luciano, it is not simply I need to prepare-" The Ancient One tried to speak her mind, but Ricky''s hand already grasped around the narrative of this conversation.


    "But the rest of us have to find out things on our own, how convenient." Ricky laughed, wiping his mouth though the smirk still remained.


    "I mean, if you''re the protector, then aren''t you inhibiting yourself by giving into a future that isn''t set in stone?" Ricky challenged, his brow furrowing as he considered the implications of her role.


    The Ancient One let out a soft laugh, a sound that echoed with both wisdom and amusement, as if she found humor in his youthful audacity.


    "If only it were that simple, but the Time Stone-"


    "Doesn''t work." Ricky interrupted, floating closer to her while shaking his head, a defiant glint in his eyes.


    "Maybe I''m not the problem, but you are." Ricky threw the accusation at The Ancient One, who remained unfazed; this was far from the first time she had faced such challenges to her authority.


    "Maybe, or perhaps the one truly disrupting the entire time stream is you?" The Ancient One shot back, her tone sharp and cutting, as she suddenly revealed the Time Stone, its shimmering surface glinting ominously in the dim light.


    "Do you truly understand time?"


    "I-"


    "No, no, you don''t understand," The Ancient One said, her voice steady as she unveiled the Time Stone, causing a stream of luminescent energy to swirl around Ricky.


    "Time is perceived as moving in a linear fashion, with moments following one another in a sequential manner. This creates a timeline that can be charted from past events to future possibilities." The Ancient One gestured to the flowing energy, each ripple representing choices and events branching out into various futures.


    "Every future possibility appears and connects with one another to form a timeline, essentially creating this timeline." The Ancient One''s expression grew grave as she continued.


    "However, the possibilities that should''ve occurred in this timeline have manifested in the form of you." The Ancient One uttered with a flick of her wrist, she revealed a vision of Ricky in the alley, surrounded by shadows and uncertainty.


    "Even when time has been in disarray in other areas, I''ve managed to track down the moment the irregularities began¡ªwhen you suddenly came back to life." The Ancient One''s weight of her words hung heavily in the air, illuminating the chaotic nature of Ricky''s existence within the fabric of time itself.


    "What the hell-WAIT!"


    Ricky''s eyes widened in disbelief as he watched his younger self spring to his feet, a confused expression plastered across his boyish face.


    The past version of him, unaware of the monumental moments yet to come, began patting his own crotch with an innocence that bordered on ridiculousness.


    "W-WHAT?!" Ricky blurted out, mortified as he witnessed the spectacle unfold before him.


    His younger self, oblivious to the unfolding chaos, continued tapping at his junk, a sickened look creeping over his face as he glanced down.


    "Oh my god~" Past Ricky whimpered, his voice tinged with both shock and bewilderment as his gaze fixated on what was supposed to be a monstrous dragon, now humorously disguised as a mere boyhood appendage.


    "Ricky, are you okay!"


    "That shouldn''t have happened, at least not in this universe." The Ancient One said, her brow furrowing with concern.


    With a wave of her hand, she expanded the future timeline, revealing a cascade of branching possibilities that spiraled into uncertainty.


    "Not only did you manifest as an irregularity, but you also began spawning them with your children, contributing to the dissolution of the future." The Ancient One spoke, the timeline flickered, a blip appearing as if something vital had been severed.


    "Do you understand how your presence is disrupting time?" The Ancient One asked, her voice filled with urgency.


    "But is it destroying the fabric or whatever?" Ricky interjected, a casual wave of his hand dismissing the gravity of her words.


    The Ancient One fell momentarily speechless, caught off guard by his nonchalance in the face of such monumental consequences.


    For a brief moment, the weight of her role as a guardian clashed with Ricky''s cavalier attitude, leaving her to ponder how one man could so effortlessly challenge the very fabric of existence.


    "Well no, it is simply making it impossible to see the timeline-"


    "Then what''s the problem?" Ricky pressed, genuinely perplexed by her concerns as the Ancient One closed her eyes, casting a glance toward Alexander, who let out an exasperated sigh.


    "Now you know what I deal with."Alexander muttered, shaking his head while rubbing his furry head.


    "No, seriously. You''re supposed to protect the Earth, but if I''m not ripping time apart, if I''m just making it so you can''t see it, how will that affect you?" Ricky challenged the Ancient One''s entire meaning, his words pushing through all of her refutes like a sharp knife.


    "Because I cannot see-"


    "What does seeing the future have to do with protecting the Earth? It seems like it just makes you like any other person," Ricky pointed out, his tone earnest as his questions caused The Ancient One to hesitate, her words halting while she assessed his reasoning.


    "See? Told you you''re a control freak." Ricky concluded, a hint of triumph in his voice as he crossed his arms, waiting for her response.


    "YOUNG RICKY, DO NOT SPEAK-"


    "No, it is quite alright, Alexander," The Ancient One interjected, raising her hand to calm him.


    "I suppose you are right in a sense; I am the protector of the Earth, but that doesn''t mean it relies solely on my ability to see the future." The Ancient One continued, her voice steady and resolute towards her goal.


    "But understand my worry. I have lived for millennia, and to suddenly encounter an irregularity that disrupts the time stream is-"


    "I understand you''re crazy, if that''s what you mean." Ricky shrugged, a smirk playing on his lips as he observed Alexander''s angry expression.


    "What? She or he-"


    "She." Both Alexander and The Ancient One corrected Ricky who nodded.


    "Really?"


    "RICKY-"


    "Okay, geez." Ricky raised his hands at Alexander''s scream, a little taken aback at how emotional he was becoming.


    "Listen, to me, her whole reason for coming here is to protect the world. But if I''m not ripping the fabric of time or posing a threat to it, then why does she have a problem with living like everyone else?" Ricky gestured towards The Ancient One, his expression one of frustration as he wrapped his head around her words, ultimately arriving at the same conclusion: so what?


    Deep down, Ricky felt a twinge of jealousy at her ability to see the future, coupled with frustration that she seemed upset with him for making her a little more normal.


    "Let''s just say it how it is. Ricky spread out his hands, his tone laced with defiance.


    "You''re mad at me because my mere presence stops you from seeing what''s ahead of you, so reality can be what you envisioned." Ricky then gestured to himself and despite the brutish nature of his words, there was a raw honesty that made The Ancient One shift uncomfortably.


    Ricky''s innocent yet pointed attitude had a way of penetrating the barriers others built around their subconscious.


    As he spoke, The Ancient One, who had been dismissing his reasoning, began to grapple with the implications of his statements.


    For the first time in a long time, she realized that he was not just an anomaly in the timeline; he was a catalyst for change, forcing her to confront the uncomfortable truth she had been avoiding.


    ''When was the last time I didn''t use the stone?'' The Ancient One pondered quietly, her gaze falling upon the Eye of Agamotto, a heavy reminder of her burdens.


    "You''re wrong, young Ricky," Alexander interjected unexpectedly, his voice breaking the tension.


    "The burden of The Ancient One is vastly different from what any of us have ever known." Alexander continued, his tone earnest and tremulous, standing up for the woman who had always stood for him.


    "It''s a weight that transcends our understanding, it''s not merely the knowledge of the past but the responsibility for the future." Alexander''s paw gripped tightly, a show of determination as he made his stance clear, fully intent on conveying the gravity of their situation to Ricky.


    "You cannot understand, young Ricky, because you have yet to give your entire being to a cause greater than yourself, to anything other than yourself and you own ideals." Alexander said, his voice steady yet charged with emotion.


    "You''re selfish, just like I once was, how I am. I hungered for glory, sought to carve my name into history." Alexander stepped closer, intensity radiating from him as he pointed an accusatory finger at Ricky.


    "It''s not about control; it''s about ensuring there is a future for Earth, for humanity. About watching the things you care about perish with time but knowing that the future is held firm with the promise of its survival." Alexander knew he was biased, but even so, if no one was to stand for his grandmaster, then he would proudly stand for the woman who nurtured not only his master, but him.


    "You do not care for anything except yourself, the ones closest to you. Please, don''t insult my grandmaster, who has sacrificed everything she has ever cared about for the safety of this planet and people who don''t even know of her existence." Alexander''s words cut through the air, raw and unapologetic.


    The seasoned general just couldn''t bear to watch Ricky dismantle the legacy of someone he held in such high regard.


    His anger ignited a fire within him, compelling him to defend The Ancient One and the ideals, even if he didn''t wholly believe in them, but someone had to stand against the tide of Ricky''s reckless bravado.


    "Alright, my bad, Alexander," Ricky conceded, crossing his arms in a gesture of reluctant surrender.


    Alexander let out a sigh, knowing that was about as much acknowledgment as he would ever get from Ricky against someone he didn''t really agree with.


    The Ancient One chuckled softly, her amusement filling the air as she pulled Alexander into a warm embrace as he blushed intensely, caught off guard by the sudden display of affection.


    "Thank you, little Alexander." The Ancient One said, setting him down with a gentle smile before turning her gaze to Ricky.


    "I''ve decided to give you the benefit of the doubt, purely because of Alexander''s existence." The Ancient One gestured to the gerbil, who puffed out his chest in pride.


    "Wow, such an honor." Ricky replied, rolling his eyes, which only served to infuriate Alexander further and yet, The Ancient One merely chuckled, clearly entertained by the banter between the two.


    "But I suppose you were right about me living like everyone else." The Ancient One admitted, opening a swirling portal behind her.


    "But I should warn you, Dracula is not a figure to mess with, and neither are the forces he possesses." The Ancient One''s tone was serious, a hint of concern lacing her words.


    "I''ve got a plan. Don''t worry," Ricky shook his head dismissively and replied lightly.


    The Ancient One sighed, her expression a mixture of exasperation and apprehension.


    "So how do I get back into my body-"


    *SNAP!*


    *GASP!*


    The Ancient One snapped her fingers, and Ricky gasped as he felt the sudden rush of energy hit him all at once, the weight of existence crashing down around him.


    In an instant, the world around him faded, and he was knocked out, overwhelmed by the tidal wave of sensations flooding back into his body.


    "I''ll be watching you closely."


    "And little Alexander," The Ancient One called back, extending her hand toward him.


    "I do not know how you''ve been ensnared in that body, but if you choose to come-"


    "I apologize, Grandmaster, but I must refuse your generous offer for now." Alexander donned his armor, the clinking of metal echoing in the space around them.


    "I may be lacking in many areas, but I made a promise to Ricky as his comrade. I intend to see this through and venture into many battles ahead." Alexander struck the hilt of his tiny spear against the table, a determined glint in his eye.


    "You haven''t changed in the least, Little Alexander." The Ancient One chuckled, a warm smile gracing her features as she walked through the portal.


    Alexander, however, cast his gaze downward, grappling with the weight of his choice as he prepared for the challenges that lay ahead.


    "Thank you grandmaster, but I am afraid I must disagree with you." Alexander muttered out, watching the portal fade before him.


    Alexander had departed The Ancient One as a naive child, a dreamer who saw the world in its purest form; brimming with beauty, hope, and the possibility of protection.


    Alexander had held the sun in his heart and the stars in his eyes, convinced that every life was sacred and every soul worth saving.


    But then came the reckoning, the crucible of war and sacrifice.


    Upon his death, the innocence he once embodied shattered like glass beneath the weight of the atrocities he had witnessed.


    The blood staining his hands was not just the crimson of battle but the very essence of countless lives extinguished.


    Those haunting screams of the innocent echoed in his ears, a relentless symphony of despair that no amount of valor could silence.


    Night after night, they became the dirge of his conscience, a reminder of the price he had paid for glory.


    No longer was he the boy with dreams of heroism; Alexander emerged from the shadows of death as something far greater, something feral and unstoppable.


    He had left Karma-Tai as Little Alexander, the hopeful child, but he returned to The Ancient One as Alexander the Great.


    A king forged in the fires of chaos, a general tempered by the crucible of battle, he now stood tall as a titan among men.


    He lived not for the protection of the greater good, but for victory; a victory that echoed with the clang of swords and the roar of triumph, a victory that demanded everything and offered nothing in return.


    "Forgive me, Grandmaster." Alexander''s voice rang out, clear and unwavering, as he stood tall, not on the side of the shield, but the side that held the sword.


    Alexander''s resolve shone bright, illuminating the shadows that clung to the corners of his soul.


    "But I am Alexander The Great."

 Chapter 98: Chapter 96: Oh Sh*t, I Forgot About Asterion

    Chapter 98: Chapter 96: Oh Sh*t, I Forgot About Asterion


    ?


    The Next Day,


    "Ah, what a beautiful day-" Ricky stretched his arms wide, basking in the fresh morning breeze on his patio, unapologetically butt naked and not ashamed in the least.


    "Ricky, are you ready-JESUS!" Rachael walked in, only to immediately whip around, shielding her eyes as she caught sight of Ricky standing there, in all his glory.


    "Rachael, as you can see, I''m always ready-" Ricky burst into laughter, throwing his arms wide open as if inviting her to admire him.


    *BAM*


    In a flash of embarrassment and irritation, Rachael flung a fireball his way.


    It shot toward him, but just before it could make contact, a shimmering forcefield materialized in front of him, deflecting the flames harmlessly into the air.


    "PUT ON SOME PANTS!"


    "What is this, communist Russia?" Ricky frowned, unable to see how he should put on his pants after she stormed into his room.


    "Fine, I''ll leave you so you can put on some pants!" Rcahel rushed out of the room, covering her face that was slightly tinged with a blush.


    "You should ask me that after you''ve stripped and felt this breeze in your birthday suit." Ricky taunted, a smirk tugging at his lips while rubbing his chin as he stared at the clearly uncomfortable Rachael.


    He wasn''t particularly fond of Rachael, but the thought of her sprawled out face down on the sheets was a tempting visual he couldn''t ignore.


    Before he could revel in the idea, the door slammed behind her, cutting off his fantasy with a sharp finality.


    *BAM*


    "Alright, then." Ricky shrugged, turning back to the warm Sicilian sunlight, breathing in the crisp morning air.


    For three years, he''d thrown himself into countless schemes, managing to keep up with almost every promise he''d made, almost.


    But as he gazed over the horizon, a thought struck him like a bolt.


    "Oh sh*t, Asterion!" Ricky muttered, smacking his forehead as the memory of his promise hit him like a freight train.


    Only now did Ricky recall how he was supposed to return and ask Asterion if he still wanted to wallow alone in that cave.


    But between his clash with Dracula and everything that came after, Asterion had slipped through the cracks.


    Ricky wasn''t perfect, and his memory was even worse, but despite that, he found himself grimacing.


    His stomach twisted uneasily at the thought of that punch, the one that had felt like it turned his internal organs to mush as the regret washed over him, mingling with an overwhelming sense of dread.


    Even with his new improved healing abilities, the idea of facing an angry Asterion sent another queasy ripple through him.


    That minotaur''s punches were nothing to scoff at, and even Ricky''s bravado couldn''t entirely shrug off the memory of their force.


    ''Let''s get this over with. I''m sure I can bullsh*t my way out of whatever corner he puts me in.'' Ricky thought, trying to keep his nerves in check as he turned to Alexander, who was scowling, his eyebrows drawn together in concern.


    "You forgot about Asterion until we came back here, didn''t you?" Alexander accused, crossing his tiny paws defiantly.


    "Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat~" Ricky stretched the word out,


    his tone feigning innocence.


    Yet, in an instant, Alexander saw right through him, the little creature''s expression betraying no doubt of Ricky''s guilt.


    Alexander had grown all too familiar with Ricky''s habits over time and the moment he noticed Ricky clutching his stomach, a knowing sense of certainty washed over him.


    "YOUNG RICKY, HE''S LITERALLY THE FIRST MINOTAUR! THE FIRST M-I-N-O-T-A-U-R!" Alexander stressed, incredulous at Ricky''s blatant ignorance, especially at such a critical moment.


    "Do you think he''ll be mad? Cause I don''t think he''ll be mad," Ricky shot back, trying to instinctively bullsh*t his way out of Alexander''s piercing scrutiny.


    "I can''t believe you. I cannot believe you," Alexander muttered in disbelief, facepalming as Ricky casually began putting on his pants.


    "It''s gonna be fine, watch and see, I''ll get us out of it-"


    "Oh no, not us, you," Alexander said, waving his paws in surrender, eager to distance himself from the situation.


    "What happened to being my comrade and seeing this through, huh?" Ricky quipped, his eyes glinting with mischief while the gerbil froze, caught off guard by Ricky''s sudden memory of his earlier speech.


    "Yeah, not so honorable now, are you?" Ricky smirked, casually scooping up Alexander and settling him on his shoulder.


    "T-That, y-you-"


    *Ahem*


    "I didn''t mean-"


    "How about you save whatever made-up nonsense you were planning to spit out, reconvene your thoughts, and jot them all down in a letter? Then hit me with it when I''m about to go to sleep." Ricky suggested, poking at old wounds as Alexander let out a hearty laugh.


    "Do you really want to start this now? Because I can throw down! What is it that humans say nowadays ''cash in my receipts''?" Alexander squinted his eyes defiantly, causing Ricky to halt and turn to him, the playful banter hanging in the air between them.


    "Even?" Ricky asked, raising an eyebrow as Alexander nodded and patted him on the shoulder with his tiny paw.


    "Indeed."


    5 minutes later,


    "Morning, sunshine. How was the full moon earlier?" Ricky laughed as he spotted Rachael waiting for him off to the side.


    "Ha, ha, real funny." Rachael retorted, rolling her eyes, though he could see her ears turning a shade of crimson.


    "So, where are you taking me? Wait, don''t tell me, are we going to meet Satan this time?" Rachael asked, trailing behind him as he shook his head.


    "Nah, I haven''t met the guy yet." Ricky replied nonchalantly, turning the corner as Rachael shot him a bewildered look.


    "What do you mean you haven''t met him yet?" Rachael demanded, quickening her pace to catch up with him as he headed toward the graveyard.


    "I mean, with all the nonsense I keep getting entangled in, it''s only a matter of time before I''m dragged into a war between Heaven and Hell." Ricky explained, glancing over his


    shoulder. Rachael''s eyes widened in horror.


    "Don''t tell me there''s going to be another war?" Rachael gasped, instinctively covering her


    face as Ricky frowned in response.


    "Huh, no I was over exaggerating-wait, there have been wars before-"


    "Ricky, knowledge on the pantheons can wait, we have arrived."


    Standing before them was the entombment of Daedalus, and Ricky let out a light sigh as he


    approached the ornate door.


    Ricky then pressed his hand against its cool surface, allowing himself to deepen into the


    darkness beyond.


    As he appeared within the tomb, Rachael flinched at the sudden shift, her gaze darting to the inscriptions lining the walls.


    The ancient runes glowed softly in the dim light, and after a moment''s hesitation, she reached out to touch them as well, curiosity overtaking her initial trepidation.


    "An echo," Ricky replied abruptly, glancing at the statue to his right.


    Alexander, perched on his shoulder, gripped his paws tightly, his frustration barely contained


    as he wanted to be the first one to answer.


    "CORRECT!" The statue roared, its voice reverberating through the chamber.


    With a thunderous sound, the double doors swung open, revealing the darkness beyond. Ricky


    stepped inside with a nonchalant attitude.


    "Huh?" Rachael muttered, her brow furrowing in confusion as Alexander turned to her, nodding in agreement, mirroring her bewilderment as he shared the same sentiment. "What is this place, why are their ancient greek runes on the entrance-"


    "It''s the tomb of Daedalus." Ricky explained, casually waving his hand as he walked toward


    the trio of stone statues.


    "We''re here to see a buddy of mine." Ricky''s voice was nonchalant, walking towards the three statues who loomed tall and imposing, their ancient features etched with wisdom and secrets


    long forgotten.


    "Greetings, we are the three, who speak three!"


    Three stone statues loomed before three podiums, each adorned with a unique puzzle that triggered a heavy sigh from Ricky, a wave of de?ja? vu washing over him.


    "Yeah, yeah, solve the puzzles and answer your stupid riddle." Ricky muttered dismissively,


    waving his hands to preempt any responses from the statues.


    "Correct!" The statue on the far right acknowledged, its voice booming with an ancient


    authority.


    "Wait Daedalus? So those wings you always fly around with-"


    "The wings he used to escape with his son who flew too close to the sun." Ricky interrupted


    Rachael, finishing her words while Alexander rubbed his furry head on his shoulder.


    Rachael blinked in exasperation, clearly baffled, while Alexander squinted, mentally scrambling to remember what the next riddle might be.


    The statues shifted slightly, their stone eyes narrowing as if they''d been robbed of the chance


    to deliver their ancient riddle with full gravitas.


    Walking over to the middle one, Ricky saw dozens of jumbled pieces, and his mind twitched.


    Ricky had an itch once more, the very same one that happened whenever he found a mechanical instrument or technology not functioning correctly.


    "I think we should first consider their height and-" Rachael observed, trying to contribute


    but Ricky waved his hand.


    "No, their entire way of talking is a riddle in itself." Ricky promptly answered as if it was once


    again obvious, receiving glares from the statues.


    "What''s the riddle?" Rachael curiously asked, walking to his side to see him solving the


    puzzles from left to right.


    "A-"


    "It''s a joke. A setup, development, and punchline, which means the order is middle, left, and


    right." Ricky explained, gesturing to the statues in sequence while slicking his hand through


    his hair.


    "DAMMIT, RICKY!" Alexander yelled, hopping up and down in frustration, wanting nothing more than to solve at least one puzzle faster than Ricky and relish that victory, but once again,


    he was a second too slow.


    "I have cities-"


    "A map." Ricky answered smoothly, just as he finished the last puzzle piece.


    "Correct!" The statute on the right boomed, its voice echoing through the chamber as the


    stone doors creaked open.


    Ricky walked through the door, seeing four statues this time each holding a door with the


    color''s red, blue, yellow, and green but turning around immediately.


    Rachael followed his line of sight, seeing the fifth statue holding a rusted door and watching


    him start to form psychic stairs to climb.


    "Riddle, hit me with it." Ricky climbed onto the ledge and beckoned to the statue.


    "What is both a father and a mother but neither a parent nor a child-"


    "A bir-"


    "A BIRD!" Alexander shouted triumphantly, beating Ricky to the answer with a satisfied


    gleam in his eye.


    "Proud of yourself?" Ricky rolled his eyes, smirking as he watched Alexander bounce around


    in a little victory dance.


    "It''s the principle, Ricky." Alexander replied, trying to straighten himself with a serious nod,


    though his eyes sparkled with satisfaction.


    Just then, Rachael climbed up to join them, catching her breath only to see the two already slipping into the next room.


    "Good for you," Ricky muttered dismissively, already striding through the doorway. Rachael finally made it to the top of the stone steps, catching her breath only to hear his voice


    echo back.


    "Hurry up, Rachael!" Ricky called impatiently, his voice reverberating off the ancient stone.


    Rachael entered the room to find a grand hall lined with seven towering statues, each one casting an imposing shadow.


    "In a room adorned with seven statues tall, each one a guardian in stone, standing in a hall-"


    Rachael began to read aloud from the inscription etched near the entrance, but Ricky was already moving toward a statue tucked away in the far corner.


    "We know all the answers, Rachael." Ricky called over his shoulder, gesturing for her to join


    him as Rachael frowned but followed, glancing curiously at the statues as she walked. "In darkness-"


    "A shadow," Ricky said flatly, irritation creeping into his voice as he hadn''t wanted to go


    through all these steps, especially after forgetting the shortcut from three years ago. With a rumble, the statue parted to reveal a winding stairway descending into darkness.


    Ricky bounded down without hesitation, while Rachael took careful steps, her nerves pricking with each one.


    At the bottom, they entered a vast chamber, and there, perched upon a weathered stone, sat


    Asterion.


    The minotaur''s massive form radiated a power so intense that it sent a tremor through


    Rachael''s entire body.


    Her knees buckled, and before she could catch herself, she sank onto the cold floor, trembling


    in awe and fear.


    Never had she encountered such an overpowering, brutal aura.


    It seemed to crush the very breath from her lungs, leaving her paralyzed with dread.


    Her gaze darted to Ricky, who strolled forward without a trace of hesitation, his casual stride as unsettling as the figure they faced.


    Rachael''s mind raced, unable to reconcile Ricky''s nonchalance with the sheer, terrifying force


    before them.


    "Hey, buddy! I''m back!" Ricky called out with a laugh, arms spread wide as though he were greeting an old friend.


    Alexander, however, knew better, subtly tucking himself deeper into Ricky''s collar for a quick


    escape.


    To their surprise, Asterion responded with a warm smile, his usually intimidating features softened.


    "Ah, greetings, Ricky." Asterion replied, his voice carrying an unexpected note of welcome.


    Both Ricky and Alexander were caught off guard; no fiery glare, no rumbling words of reproach, just a genuine, calm smile that left them momentarily speechless. Although three years had passed for Ricky and Alexander, they hadn''t fully grasped that for Asterion, those years felt more like a fleeting moment.


    To him, three years was akin to three hours in the endless solitude of his existence.


    During this time, Asterion had done more than just wait; he had pondered the meaning behind Ricky''s words, mulling them over in the recesses of his mind. The weight of their promise had lingered heavily, becoming a focal point in his


    contemplations.


    Asterion''s true concern wasn''t about his own isolation but rather the fear that Ricky might


    never return to fulfill the promise he had made.


    In that moment, Asterion wasn''t consumed by anger but rather overwhelmed by a profound


    sense of relief, recognizing the genuine truth behind Ricky''s words.


    It dawned on him that despite his long years of solitude, he hadn''t entirely relinquished his


    will to live; the emotions still flickering within him were a testament to that.


    For a time, Asterion had convinced himself that he could abandon the world, choosing instead


    to remain in this cave, cut off from all that he once cherished.


    But after everything he had felt over the last three years, he realized how mistaken he had


    been.


    Ricky''s words echoed in his mind, reminding him that in this cave, he was as good as dead.


    It became clear to Asterion that he had to embrace life once more, to step beyond the shadows


    of his isolation and give existence another chance.


    "I appreciate you giving me the time to reflect on my thoughts; it was very kind of you."


    Asterion said, bowing his head slightly, mistaking his prolonged absence for a gesture of


    respect.


    "What the- " Alexander was taken aback, his eyes wide with disbelief, until Ricky cut him off with a chuckle.


    "Yeah, no problem, Asterion! What are buddies for?" Ricky laughed, fully embracing this new narrative as Asterion''s smile deepened, reflecting the warmth of their renewed camaraderie. "So, did you give my offer some consideration? Are we going sightseeing or what?" Ricky asked, strolling over and giving Asterion''s massive, muscular calf a friendly pat. The gesture felt almost comical against the backdrop of Asterion''s imposing figure, but Ricky''s enthusiasm was genuine, eager to have a bulky minotaur bodyguard.


    As Asterion gazed at Ricky, he saw a second chance to embrace life as it was truly meant to be


    lived.


    For so long, confinement had been his only reality, a prison of both body and spirit. Perhaps that was why he felt so comfortable within these walls; they were all he had ever known. Yet, in that moment, a flicker of desire sparked within him, a yearning to experience the world


    beyond the cave, a world filled with possibilities rather than just pain. Asterion had barely appreciated the beauty of the outside before he had locked himself away,


    and now he found himself longing to discover what lay beyond the shadows he had accepted


    as his fate.


    However, the main obstacle standing between Asterion and the outside world was his fear that moving on would mean losing appreciation for the past. Asterion had clung to memories as if they were lifelines, convinced that letting go would


    erase the love he once held and the legacy he embodied.


    But in the wake of Ricky''s arrival, a new understanding began to blossom within him: the past


    was not a burden to be shed but a part of who he was, woven into the very fabric of his being.


    No matter where his journey led him, he would always be Asterion, the beloved father of all


    minotaurs and a steadfast friend of Daedalus.


    In that moment of clarity, Asterion felt the weight of his self-imposed chains begin to


    crumble.


    Asterion finally let go of the shackles that had bound him for so long, embracing the idea that


    he could honor his history while stepping boldly into the future.


    "I shall follow you, take up what life has to offer, and properly enjoy it this time," Asterion


    declared with a warm smile, extending his massive hand toward Ricky.


    ''F*ck yeah.'' Ricky fist bumped inside his own mind, taking Asterion''s hand and properly


    shaking it in real time. Ricky was effectively recruiting an ultra-powerful minotaur onto his side, and the thought filled him with a rush of exhilaration as they shook hands, sealing their pact.


    Asterion found himself uncertain about what he truly desired from this newfound


    companionship and the promise of adventure.


    Deep down, it all boiled down to one fundamental question: Was life truly worth living?


    ''I might have been scared before, but I owe it to all those who supported me to give it one last


    hazah.'' Asterion thought, gazing up at the ceiling with a heartfelt smile, imagining all his loved ones gazing upon him with proud gazes.


    "Hey Asterion, before we set out, how about you take one last stroll through this place, for


    old times'' sake?" Ricky suggested, believing that a little leisure would do them good as


    Asterion nodded in agreement.


    "I think I''d like that." Asterion replied, a warmth spreading in his chest while standing up


    from his thinking stone.


    As he walked, memories flooded back to him, moments of hard work and dedication shared


    with Daedalus, every stone laid and every echo of laughter lingering in the halls. Meanwhile, Rachael stood off to the side, pale as a ghost, her eyes wide as she watched Asterion reminisce, utterly entranced by the scene unfolding before her.


    It was as if she were witnessing a powerful force of nature, an ancient being reconnecting


    with a life once forsaken.


    Finally, she exhaled, releasing the pent-up breath she hadn''t realized she was holding,


    feeling both awe and trepidation at the sheer magnitude of Asterion''s presence and the


    weight of his past.


    *GASP*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Rachael''s back was slick with sweat, her instincts locking her body in place as if time itself had


    frozen.


    A moment later, a surge of adrenaline coursed through her, jumpstarting her senses and flooding her with a mix of fear and fascination.


    "What''s your deal?" Ricky asked, striding over with a frown etched on his face, puzzled by her


    clear overreaction.


    "My deal? MY DEAL?!?" Rachael screeched, her voice echoing off the tomb''s stone walls as


    strands of her hair tumbled free, framing her flushed cheeks.


    "You don''t have to yell-" Ricky crossed his arms, his brow furrowing further at her


    uncharacteristic response.


    "That-he, HE IS THE FOREFATHER OF ALL MINOTAURS!" Rachael screamed, her eyes wide


    with a mixture of awe and fear.


    Her reaction was so intense that it earned a nod of agreement from Alexander, who perched


    on Ricky''s shoulder.


    "See, Ricky? That is the appropriate response when meeting Asterion for the first time,"


    Alexander chimed in, his tone both nagging and triumphant.


    But Ricky, unfazed, simply tuned him out, his focus lingering on the towering figure before


    them.


    However, the truth behind Rachael''s fear was that Asterion could likely kill both of them


    without breaking a sweat if he truly wanted to.


    Asterion was one of the strongest supernatural beings in Greek mythology, a titan whose might was barely matched even by Hercules himself. In fact, the only reason Hercules had ever won their wrestling matches was because Asterion


    had vowed not to engage in his berserk state, a promise that only served to highlight the sheer


    power he could unleash if he chose to.


    No one truly understood the full extent of Asterion''s power since whenever he found himself


    backed into a corner, he always held back, mindful of those around him who needed protection.


    This restraint had become second nature, a testament to his desire to safeguard others rather


    than unleash the full force of his abilities.


    Asterion''s strength was a double-edged sword; while he could easily overwhelm any adversary, he prioritized the safety of his aides, allowing them to believe they were safe in his


    presence.


    "How can you just stand there as if we haven''t just met someone from the realm of the gods?"


    Rachael yelled, her exasperation palpable as she clutched her head, feeling the world around


    her spin in disarray.


    "I guess, like this?" Ricky looked at himself simply standing in place, then gazed back at her


    and shrugged.


    It wasn''t that Rachael underestimated Ricky or looked down on him; she had never hidden her


    thoughts.


    Yet, the more time she spent within his sphere of influence, the more she began to grasp the


    immense gravitational pull of the powerful figures that surrounded him.


    When Rachael first met Agatha, she was taken aback by her strength and upon meeting


    Veredelet had left her equally stunned.


    But standing before Asterion, the forefather of all minotaurs, she found her perspective on


    Ricky shifting entirely.


    Meanwhile, Ricky sat casually to the side, seemingly oblivious to the sheer power that Asterion exuded.


    Rachael, with her years of training and experience, recognized the weight of Asterion''s


    presence, while Ricky remained unfazed, unaware of the gravity of the moment unfolding


    before him.


    Technically speaking, Asterion''s lineage is even more remarkable, as his grandfather is


    Poseidon.


    This connection stems from the fact that Asterion''s father was a creation of the god of the


    sea, adding a profound depth to Asterion''s heritage.


    As the forefather of all minotaurs, he not only embodies the strength and ferocity associated


    with his kind but also carries the weight of divine lineage, intertwining his existence with the


    very fabric of Greek mythology.


    "What''s the deal, anyway? Asterion is a really cool guy-minotaur," Ricky quickly corrected himself but Rachael, however, shook her head vehemently. "That''s exactly why I''m so wary, Ricky. The Greek gods are known for being completely unreasonable. Asterion is technically the grandson of Poseidon, so I had to expect the worst," Rachael said, rising to her feet, a hint of concern etched across her face.


    "Everything involving the Greek pantheon always ends up twice as complicated as it should be. That''s why the Van Helsings stopped interacting with them a hundred years ago." Rachael


    said, wiping the sweat from her forehead as if trying to dispel the lingering tension in the air. "Entirely unreasonable, huh?" Ricky glanced at Alexander, who was silently whistling to himself on the side, seemingly unfazed by the gravity of the situation. "W-Well I wouldn''t say unreasonable, merely an acquired taste." Alexander, feeling the pressuring gaze of Ricky, coughed out a response. "Uh huh, are they really that bad I mean I''ve heard some of the myths-" "No, the myths don''t highlight all their cruel and arrogant deeds. It doesn''t just stop with the


    Greek gods; it extends to all Greek creations," Rachael explained, her voice tinged with


    exasperation as Ricky''s gaze seemed to bore deeper into Alexander.


    "Even the monsters and other beings of the mythos possess this superiority complex, so


    seeing Asterion being understanding and reasonable is-...well, it''s a rare sight." Rachael


    continued, noticing Ricky''s frown. "Are you guys sure that your not exaggerating-"


    "We''re sure." Both Alexander and Rachael replied in unison, their expressions flat and devoid


    of emotion as Ricky rubbed his forehead in frustration before raising his hands in defeat.


    "You know what? I''m putting this aside since it''s not the current issue." Ricky declared,


    shaking off the conversation.


    Richy then turned toward the exit, ready to move on, only to realize Rachael wasn''t following


    as her hesitation caught his attention, and he paused, glancing back at her. "Who are you?" Rachael''s sudden question halted Ricky in his tracks, causing him to turn


    back, confusion etched on his face.


    "What?" Ricky asked, glancing at Alexander, who shrugged in response, equally puzzled.


    "Who is Ricky Luciano? Take away the Black Knight, strip away the mana user-leave him with nothing but himself." Rachael''s earnest inquiry lingered in the air, prompting Ricky to


    pause and genuinely consider her words.


    "Who are you?" Rachael rubbed her arm, knowing it was out of her element to ask such a question but she couldn''t help but utter these words. "I guess I''d be a normal mobster." Ricky began, a hint of bitterness creeping into his voice. "Return to my family and burn everyone who exiled me in the first place." Ricky spoke before


    a flash of red glimmered in his eyes, igniting with the memories of those families who had


    forced his father''s hand, who had pushed him away from everything he once knew. Though he couldn''t be completely mad, Ricky knew he had grown a lot during his time away. Even if he had stayed, he had to believe that nothing would have changed; he would have been


    the same sorry for himself drunk who always ran away. So, while it wasn''t the outcome he had wanted, he understood that everything that had


    happened to him had only made him stronger.


    Ricky could only relent to the truth that life had shaped him into someone who could confront


    the past with newfound strength.


    "You''re a mobster?" Rachael asked, her surprise evident as Ricky nodded.


    "I mean, I was. But after I was exiled from the other families because I was a mutant-" "You''re a mutant!" Rachael exclaimed, astonished. Ricky raised an eyebrow, a bit confused,


    as he had literally shown his powers before, but Rachael had misinterpreted that as magic.


    "How did I never know about this?" Rachael questioned, clearly flabbergasted while holding her forehead.


    "Because you never bothered to ask! Every time I tried to talk, you shunned me away," Ricky replied, his tone light yet pointed as its edge made Rachael flinch. "From the three years I''ve known you, and that entire year we spent in the same cabin, all I know about you is that you''re Abraham''s granddaughter, and all you know about me is that I''m the Black Knight." Ricky said, spreading his arms in exasperation, looking at her with


    disbelief at how she could even have the courage to ask such a dumb question. Now that Ricky had brought it up, Rachael felt incredibly shallow as she had a wealth of knowledge about him, primarily because his personality was open and inviting, especially to


    the girls he often tried to impress.


    Ricky didn''t hesitate to share his thoughts, revealing everything from his ambitions to his


    fears during their training sessions, while she had given him the cold shoulder time and time


    again.


    Rachael had often pointed out Ricky''s cowardice directly to his face, dismissing him as


    someone who shied away from challenges.


    Yet here she was, isolating herself from him, a cowardly move that formed a sense of guilt.


    It struck her as ironic that she had been so quick to judge Ricky when she had, in her own way,


    been avoiding the deeper connection they could have had.


    Then that guilt washed over her as she recalled the countless times she had turned away when


    he tried to engage with her.


    It was then that Rachael slowly opened those doors she had always kept closed, doors that


    unknowingly led her toward the path of motherhood.


    "Sorry, about being a b*tch for the past three years." Rachael rubbed her arms, the admission hanging heavy in the air.


    It was a rare moment of vulnerability, since she had inherited this closed off approach to the


    world from her grandfather that formed an innate struggle to open up to people.


    "Alexander, I must be dreaming." Ricky''s jaw dropped in disbelief, unable to process what he


    had just heard.


    Never in his life did he think he''d hear Rachael actually apologize. "You are certainly not," Alexander echoed, his eyes wide with surprise as he had known


    Rachael long enough to understand the gravity of her words. Apologies were not her usual forte, and he had never seen her express regret over anything.


    "Ricky, I have finished my walkabout," Asterion announced, his deep voice reverberating


    slightly in the air as he approached the two.


    "You ready?" Ricky asked, his tone questioning, gesturing towards the door to the side and


    what awaited them outside.


    "I am."


    As Ricky pushed open the door, a rush of vibrant light spilled into the dim space, revealing the


    breathtaking scenery beyond.


    Asterion stepped through, his imposing form casting a long shadow against the golden rays


    of morning.


    The gentle wind stirred his white fur, causing it to ripple like a flowing stream, and the


    warmth of the sun embraced him, wrapping him in a nostalgic glow he thought he had long


    forgotten.


    The air was alive with the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers, each scent a reminder of a


    world full of beauty and possibility.


    Asterion closed his eyes for a moment, allowing himself to fully experience the sensations


    around him.


    The warmth on his skin, the gentle rustle of leaves, the symphony of birdsong, it all melded


    into a feeling of serenity that he hadn''t felt in ages.


    This


    was a moment to savor, a gift that reminded him of his connection to life and the love he


    had once known.


    "So, Asterion, how does the morning sun feel after all these years?" Ricky asked, his laughter


    ringing through the air as he observed Asterion reveling in the beauty of the world around


    him, just as he had promised.


    Asterion''s gaze remained fixed on the horizon, where the sun spilled golden light over the landscape, casting long shadows and illuminating the vibrant colors of the flowers that


    dotted the meadow as he inhaled deeply, the crisp morning air filling his lungs with a sense of


    renewal.


    "It feels right."

 Chapter 99: Chapter 97: Dracula’s Suffering

    Chapter 99: Chapter 97: Dracula¡¯s Suffering


    ?


    "FIND HIM, YOU FOOLISH IMBECILE! FIND HIM OR I''LL HAVE YOUR HEAD ON A SPIKE!" Dracula roared, his voice reverberating through the cold stone walls of his castle like thunder. The fury in his tone sent a shiver down the spines of his high-ranking vampires, who scurried away like frightened mice, desperate to escape the wrath of their lord.


    As they fled, their cloaks billowing behind them, the air hung heavy with tension, the weight of Dracula''s anger palpable.


    Dracula remained on his deteriorated throne, a dark silhouette against the flickering torchlight, the very embodiment of power and menace.


    His eyes glowed like embers, burning with a rage that threatened to consume him from within.


    Each ragged breath he took felt like a tempest brewing, a storm waiting to break.


    Dracula gripped the arms of the throne, knuckles white, as memories of that human slipping through his fingers reverberated through his mind, a phantom just beyond his grasp.


    While Ricky reveled in his newfound strength, expanding his power and aides, Dracula languished in a pit of despair, his fate spiraling into darkness.


    The three years following Ricky''s eldritch summon had left him a shadow of his former self, his once-mighty presence now weakened by the cracking of his mana core.


    Dracula''s body, an imperfect vessel forged from ancient magic, now struggled to contain the vast reservoir of power that was slowly leaking away.


    His mana core, once a wellspring of formidable energy, had become a cursed wound, a source of debilitating pain and frustration.


    Each passing day felt like a reminder of his mortality, a stark contrast to the eternal night he once commanded.


    Unlike the other vampires who roamed the night seeking to bolster their own powers, Dracula''s pursuit was different.


    He had devoted himself to harnessing the essence of Varnae, the ancient and terrible entity that had once bestowed upon him dominion over the shadows.


    Varnae''s power, though formidable, had come at a cost as Dracula had only scratched the surface of its true potential, tapping into a legacy that had been meant for him alone.


    The core, once a bridge to that terrifying power, had turned into a shackle, binding him in a slow and agonizing decline.


    Gazing out over his crumbling empire, Dracula felt the weight of his desperation settle heavily on his shoulders.


    Dracula looked for cores, the vital essence that defined a vampire''s power, but his search was in vain.


    Dracula couldn''t find a single being that possessed half the capacity of his own, which had once belonged to Abraham, now a mere echo of the strength it once held.


    It was maddening, the thought of Ricky''s core, the very essence he had foolishly allowed to slip through his fingers, somewhere out in the world lingering about with what should be his.


    Ricky, the boy who had defied him, was now an enigma, an unexpected rival whose power could threaten to eclipse even his own.


    The thought of it sent a shiver through Dracula''s bones, igniting a spark of rage deep within him.


    How could a mere fledgling hold such untapped potential?


    At this point, Dracula was desperate to find Ricky and extract his core, his mind endlessly churning with dark schemes that were all in vain.


    He could not allow Ricky to thrive unchecked and desperately needed that core, that power, to restore himself and reassert his dominance.


    "Sire, is it possible that there could be a Van Helsing remaining-"


    "I KILLED THEM ALL! I WATCHED AND WAITED FOR THEM TO BREED OUT A CORE FOR ME, AND ONCE I OBTAINED ABRAHAM''S CORE, I WIPED THEM OUT!" Dracula bellowed, the ferocity of his voice echoing through the stone walls of his castle, shaking Baron Blood to his very core.


    The revelation hung in the air, thick with the weight of Dracula''s madness as his eyes, once pools of dark ambition, now burned with the remnants of his shattered dreams.


    The chilling truth spilled forth from his lips like poison: his entire purpose for keeping the Van Helsings alive had been a sinister scheme to exploit their rare core magic by letting them breed amongst themselves.


    He had gone to great lengths to manipulate them, all while pretending to harbor a grudging respect for their lineage, scheming for the day when he could snatch the essence he desired.


    The Van Helsings, with their rich bloodline, were a means to an end; a line of rare genetic inheritance that could breed a core powerful enough to hold his strength.


    But in his relentless pursuit of power, he had acted rashly, snuffing out the very candles he had hoped to use to light his path once he thought their use was completely used.


    Having outliers like the Van Helsings among the living had been a foolish risk which is why he killed them, but now he recognized a weakness that had led him to slaughter them all leaving him in the predicament he now faced.


    *HUFF*


    "I already used the last of their flesh to create my holy immunity; I cannot salvage anything that is left." Dracula lamented, raking his fingers through his white hair as frustration seeped into every word.


    The rhythmic tapping of his foot against the cold stone floor echoed his growing impatience, each sound a reminder of the precious seconds slipping through his grasp like grains of sand.


    "Every second I waste is another tiny bit of power siphoning out of me." Dracula continued, his voice thick with irritation


    "And another step further from completing my master plan." Dracula gripped the arms of his ornate throne, the creaking of the wood under his strain punctuating his mounting agitation as he cast a piercing gaze at Baron Blood.


    The small crack had slowly been causing a greater rift within him both externally and


    internally.


    Over the course of three years, Dracula''s core had leaked out one-fifth of his power, weakening him and leaving him desperate.


    Each day, the fracture widened, a silent thief siphoning off his once-unstoppable strength, and with it, his confidence waned.


    Everything was at stake; his very existence hinged on the raw, brutal power that had once


    defined him.


    Yet, as he grew weaker, so did his hold over the shadows and terrors he commanded.


    The empire of fear he had meticulously built was beginning to tremble at the waning of his brute force.


    Desperation clawed at him, twisting his thoughts into dark, chaotic spirals as he could feel the insidious whispers of doubt creeping in, threatening to unravel the carefully woven


    tapestry of his plans.


    Without power, he was just another name in a long history of fallen tyrants.


    Rage flared within him, igniting a fierce resolve as he could not, would not, allow himself to


    fade into obscurity.


    Every ounce of energy he had left would be channeled into regaining what was lost.


    The Black Knight was more than just a target; he was the key to restoring Dracula to his former glory and furthering it.


    With each passing moment, the stakes rose higher, the pressure mounting like a thundercloud


    ready to burst.


    He had played this game of shadows for too long, and now the clock was ticking against him.


    It was time to act, to reclaim his power, or risk losing everything he had fought to build.


    The thought ignited a primal instinct within him; the instinct to dominate, to conquer, to rise from the ashes of weakness.


    "How are the night raids progressing?" Dracula inquired, his voice heavy with a simmering


    impatience.


    It was the same question he had asked Baron Blood countless times over the last three years, each iteration growing more tense, more desperate.


    "Sire, the night raids have failed as before." Baron Blood replied, his tone cautious, acutely aware of the dark cloud of fury hovering over his master.


    "However, as I''ve reported previously, The Black Knight has not returned to the Vaticam-"


    *BAM*


    Dracula smashed his armchair into smithereens, the sound of splintering wood echoing through the grand hall like a thunderclap.


    He was fed up with hearing the same incessant report for the last three years.


    Each reiteration was a reminder of his failures, each word a hammer striking the anvil of his


    mounting frustration.


    Baron Blood flinched at the spectacle, knowing full well the tempest brewing within his


    master.


    He could see that Dracula''s mental state had been deteriorating rapidly since they discovered Ricky was not hiding within the Vatican as they had hoped.


    The news had come as a cruel blow, and every effort to locate even a single trace of Ricky had proven fruitless, driving the ancient vampire closer to the brink of madness.


    "Leave me." Dracula ordered, his voice cold and final.


    Baron Blood hesitated, wanting to refute the command, to voice his concerns, but the


    moment he caught sight of his master''s blood-red eyes, all thoughts of defiance fled.


    There was an intensity in that gaze that promised wrath, an intensity that had brought countless foes to their knees.


    "Now!" Dracula''s voice thundered, slicing through the thick silence of the chamber.


    The force of his command sent a shiver down Baron Blood''s spine, and before he could utter another word, he vanished from the room, leaving the ancient vampire alone to contemplate


    the spiraling chaos that surrounded him.


    *Click*


    *Click*


    *Click*


    The echo of heels clicking against the cold stone floor reverberated through the cavernous


    halls of the castle, each step measured and unwavering.


    The sound cut through the oppressive silence like a knife, heralding the arrival of a figure who


    seemed to embody authority itself.


    The double doors to the throne room creaked open, and in walked a man clad in a sharply tailored Nazi uniform, the insignia glinting ominously under the dim light.


    He strode purposefully down the red carpet, his demeanor exuding confidence, until he halted before the visibly annoyed Dracula, who sat brooding on his shattered throne.


    The flicker of candlelight cast an eerie glow on the stranger''s face, revealing a steely gaze that met the vampire''s piercing stare with unflinching resolve.


    "I must admit, Dracula, I am very disappointed." The man boldly proclaimed, his voice smooth and unwavering, showing no sign of trepidation in the face of the legendary vampire. Dracula paused, the laughter dying in his throat, replaced by a simmering curiosity.


    "What?" Dracula asked, incredulity dripping from his tone. His amusement faded, replaced by a growing sense of irritation.


    This audacity was not common among those who dared to stand before him, and he found it


    both intriguing and infuriating.


    In Dracula''s eyes, he could squash the man before him within seconds, yet this mere human stood unflinching, clearly unimpressed by his imposing presence.


    "In the last three years, I have not only strengthened the regime of my Feuer but bolstered Hydra''s glory in the process. And yet, in that time, you''ve simply wasted away." The man gestured dismissively toward Dracula, who was now on his feet, a simmering rage coursing through him.


    "YOU DARE!" Dracula thundered, his voice echoing throughout the grand hall, filled with centuries of darkness and dread but the man only scoffed, the sound dripping with contempt.


    "Oh please, Dracula. You may be able to fool the other heads, but I am certain that you''ve grown weaker since the last time we spoke." His eyes gleamed with a knowing intensity, piercing through Dracula''s carefully crafted facade and laying bare the vulnerabilities hidden


    beneath.


    "You''re an abomination, but a weaker one at that." The man chuckled, a mocking grin


    spreading across his face as he watched Dracula sink back into his throne, a hateful look creeping into his eyes.


    "If this is about Hydra, I''ve upheld my end as a head, so there''s no reason for your arrival in


    the first place." Dracula gritted his teeth, revealing himself to be one of the heads of Hydra, his pride desperately clinging to the remnants of his former glory.


    "It is not simply upholding your agreement to the organization, but what you bring to the table, as of now." The man replied, his tone shifting from jest to grave seriousness. "When you first joined, we all overlooked your clear lack of enthusiasm for our order, since


    your overwhelming power made up the difference." The man surveyed Dracula with disdain,


    his gaze cold and assessing.


    "But things have changed."


    Dracula scrunched his eyebrows, incredulity mingling with simmering rage at this man''s foolish confidence.


    How dare he question the strength that had once terrorized nations? Dracula''s entire reasoning for joining their organization had been to harness its resources to


    cure his imperfections, to reclaim the power that had once flowed through his master like an unstoppable tide.


    "Nothing has changed; I am still the strongest-" Dracula began, but the man shook his head, cutting him off with a disdainful smirk.


    "Back then, your bare minimum was enough. Now, it is not." The man replied, his tone


    dripping with condescension.


    "The regime and Hydra as a whole have bolstered to unfathomable degrees. Our forces have


    made considerable strides, but all I see around your operation is stagnation." The man spread his hands wide, gesturing to the emptiness of Dracula''s once-mighty realm, something within the ancient vampire snapped.


    His eyes flared with fury, and the room seemed to darken with his growing wrath, bloodlust


    slowly oozing from his body.


    "Watch your next words carefully, Schmidt; it might be your last," Dracula hissed, the


    menace in his voice echoing off the stone walls, his teeth bared like a predator revealing its fangs to the man before him known as Johann Schmidt.


    Dracula felt the weight of centuries pressing down on him as he faced Johann Schmidt, the man who had cunningly maneuvered himself into the upper echelons of the Nazi regime. Schmidt was not the mere pawn he thought he would be; he was a rising star within Hydra, a force of ambition and intellect that rivaled even the most seasoned of his kind.


    Years ago, when Dracula had first allied himself with Hydra, he had viewed Schmidt as just


    another human, one among many, eager to embrace the darkness but naive to its true depths. But in the intervening years, he had watched Schmidt transform as the man had honed his skills, manipulating events and people with an ease that had initially surprised Dracula.


    It was during the early days of his involvement that Schmidt had begun to make a name for


    himself, a man driven by a singular desire: power.


    The early thirties were a turbulent time in Germany, the ashes of the Great War still smoldering beneath the surface of a new regime.


    As the Nazis began their ascent, Schmidt seized the moment, aligning himself with the


    ambitious party members who saw in him a dangerous asset and clinging himself to the Fuer, Adolf Hitler.


    Schmidt had a knack for rhetoric, a talent for persuasion that seemed to weave around his listeners like a silken thread.


    They didn''t just hear him; they felt his voice resonate with their very being. Schmidt stirred their ambitions, ignited their fears, and in doing so, he positioned himself as


    a vital part of the regime''s future.


    Dracula had initially underestimated him, dismissing the human as just another opportunist vying for attention.


    Yet, over time, Schmidt had proven to be anything but ordinary as he had a chilling vision for Hydra, a vision that aligned eerily well with the dark aspirations of the Nazi Party. Underneath his suave exterior lay a mind that craved not just power but the kind of legacy that


    would echo through history.


    "Dracula, everyone knows you joined our organization to cure your weakness." Schmidt


    stated bluntly, his voice dripping with condescension as he turned on his heel, clearly unperturbed by the vampire''s fury.


    "Remember, Dracula." Schimdt continued, his tone laced with a chilling finality. "There will be no place for you within the organization if you continue to stagnate amidst the growing war ahead." Schmidt paused at the imposing double doors, the shadows playing across his features, before glancing back at the seething figure seated on the throne.


    "If a head is cut off, two more shall take its place." Schmidt''s voice, cool and confident, reverberated through the air, a warning wrapped in the guise of inevitability.


    With those chilling words hanging in the silence, Dracula''s gaze locked onto Schmidt''s, his


    crimson eyes burning with an intensity that could turn stone to ash.


    The implication was clear: the organization would not hesitate to discard him if he failed to


    rise to the occasion.


    There was no mercy for the weak, no patience for the faltering as Schmidt''s presence had shifted the balance, introducing a new brand of ambition that threatened to eclipse the old. The doors swung shut behind Schmidt, sealing him away from the shadows of his castle.


    *RUMBLE*


    The very air around Dracula vibrated with his unrestrained fury, the ground beneath him trembling as if the castle itself were succumbing to his wrath.


    Yet amidst this chaotic energy, a melodic voice broke through, soft and soothing. "Father, if I may." The voice chimed, cutting through the tension like a gentle breeze.


    As the furious vampire turned his gaze to the source of the voice, the storm within him began


    to settle beneath the surface of his rage.


    There stood a beautiful and ethereal figure, her face a perfect blend of striking allure and


    haunting intensity.


    Pale, porcelain-like skin gives her an ethereal quality, while her high cheekbones and sharply


    defined jawline lend an air of aristocratic grace.


    Her eyes, a deep and mesmerizing shade of crimson, seem to pierce through the soul,


    reflecting centuries of wisdom and darkness.


    Her hair is a cascade of midnight black, flowing in silky waves down her back, shimmering


    with an almost unnatural luster.


    It framed her face like a dark halo, adding to her otherworldly allure and when she moved, her


    hair seemed to ripple like a living shadow, enhancing her mysterious presence.


    Her lips are a vivid contrast to her pale skin, painted a deep, blood-red hue that hints at her


    vampiric nature.


    When she smiles, which is rare and often unsettling, her fangs are revealed as sharp, gleaming, and deadly, a reminder of her true lineage.


    Her attire is as captivating as her appearance as she favors elegant, gothic-style clothing that


    emphasizes her slender, yet strong figure.


    Flowing black gowns, intricate lace, and velvet fabrics adorn her, often accented with dark red


    or deep purple.


    "Lilith, I am not in the mood to converse at the moment." Dracula replied, raising his hand as


    if to ward off her words.


    His frustration simmered just below the surface, but he held back his ire, knowing well that


    his daughter was not the one to blame, yet.


    "Father, I only wish to seek out that wretched human who has brought you to this state."


    Lilith declared, her crimson eyes glinting with an ambition that sparkled dangerously in the


    dim light of the throne room.


    Dracula shook his head, dismissing the thought even as the flicker of interest ignited within


    him.


    "If I cannot even dare to find his trail, how can I expect you too-" "All I am asking for is the chance to find him. I wish to prove myself to you once and for all,"


    Lilith said, her voice steady and resolute while Dracula considered her proposal, weighing the


    potential risks against the dwindling options he had left.


    "Very well," he replied at last, his voice a low growl, "but do not engage with the Black Knight. It could spell your doom." Dracula granted his permission, and Lilith''s face lit up as


    she bowed deeply before turning away, a bright yet dark smile illuminating her features. would never dream of it." Lilith assured him, her confidence a sharp contrast to the tension


    "I


    in the air, as she departed to embark on her mission.


    "Until now."

 Chapter 100 - 98: A Wild Lilith Has Appeared

    Chapter 100: Chapter 98: A Wild Lilith Has Appeared


    The next day,


    "Such beautiful scenery." Asterion remarked, pausing to drink in the vibrant hues of the lush forest that surrounded them.


    The trees stood tall and proud, their leaves shimmering under the dappled sunlight, while the air was fragrant with the sweet scent of wildflowers.


    Ricky and his companions were currently trekking through the heart of Germany, in route to Transylvania for two important reasons.


    First, although Ricky had ventured into Dracula''s castle before, he was hesitant to teleport directly there this time by using a witches gate.


    He had learned of the formidable magical barrier that surrounded the castle, and the last thing he wanted was to find himself trapped or worse.


    Second, they were waiting on the border of Transylvania for a particular individual, someone who stubbornly refused to let Ricky conjure a gate for them.


    "Ah, hello there." Asterion then bent down, smiling at the worm that was digging itself into the ground.


    "You got any fours?" Ricky asked Alexander, leaning on a rock with a big red X on it, clearly at a designed meeting point.


    *Sigh*


    Alexander let out a weary sigh, extending the card toward Ricky, who accepted it with a nod.


    He then turned his attention to Garfield, who was lazily sprawled out nearby, his limbs stretched comfortably as if he had all the time in the world.


    "Any jacks-"


    "No." Garfield didn''t even let him finish, shooing away any thoughts as he looked towards Alexander with eyes shaping into Crescent moons.


    "What cards do you have, Alexander?" Garfield knowingly asked, his tail flicking in the air as Alexander scoffed.


    ''Like I ever tell you that I have a three, two, queen, five-''


    "Do you, by any chance, have a three?" Garfield chuckled, shamelessly using his ability to break the fourth wall and read the words as Alexander fell to his knees.


    "Why can''t I ever win at this, go of fish?" Alexander seemingly asked, watching helplessly as Garfield plucked one of his cards.


    "What can I say, other than the fact that I''m simply the best at everything I do?" Garfield seemingly pondered his existence out loud, showing off his abilities to cheat without really cheating.


    It was then that Ricky felt the familiar vibration of the Ebony Blade at his side, a subtle reminder of its presence.


    A sense of urgency washed over him as he recognized that it was time to lower the mental barrier he had placed around his mind.


    With a deep breath, he released the tension, allowing the connection to reestablish itself.


    ''You dare ignore me again, you dare!''


    Throughout their journey, Ricky found himself besieged by the relentless nagging of the Ebony Blade.


    He had successfully tuned it out while rallying his army, but the blade''s voice was persistent, always lurking at the edges of his consciousness.


    Ricky understood that he would inevitably need to wield its power, yet there were moments, especially during sleep, when he inadvertently shut the blade out.


    Each time he drifted off, he would forget to reintegrate the connection, only to awaken with the nagging feeling of a half-formed bond, the blade''s presence muted and his awareness incomplete.


    ''I forgot, sorry.'' Ricky shrugged, the blade vibrating at his waist in intense frequencies.


    ''For an entire day, you''ve shut me off, Percival would''ve steeled his mentality-''


    ''Listen, I promise that we''ll sit down and you can berate me all you want about your love for Percival, after we kill Dracula.'' Ricky revealed, the blade halting its words entirely at his statement.


    ''HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!'' The Ebony Blade''s laughter echoed in Ricky''s mind, sharp and grating, a gleeful cackle that reverberated with a dark, almost mocking energy.


    ''WHY WOULD I HELP YOU AFTER THE WAY YOU TREATED ME-''


    ''Oh can it you f*cking steel dildo, you can''t take the high ground. You''re a literal murder sword.'' Ricky shuffled his hand, arranging the cards in a random order to throw off Garfield who scoffed at this gesture.


    ''Everytime I do anything, you always compare me to your boyfriend Percival, I mean, could you shut the f*ck about Ser Douchealot already?'' Ricky sighed inwardly, annoyed at the constant comparison to Percival.


    ''I-I DO NOT!'' The Ebony Blade ringed within Ricky''s head, clearly taken aback at the sudden accusation.


    ''Whatever, you literally did it ten seconds ago when you told me to deal with it like Pericval.'' Ricky shook his head, gazing down at his hip to the quiet blade holstered in its sheath.


    Since the day Percival departed, the Ebony Blade had been a relentless presence in Ricky''s mind, an echo of disdain laced with constant comparisons to its first wielder.


    Gradually, Ricky had made a habit of tuning it out, like ignoring a relentless critic whose only goal was to wear him down.


    ''It is not my fault you''re nothing like Percival-''


    ''Here we go, with the Percival comparison.'' Ricky laughed out, taking one of Garfield''s cards while hatefully knowing the author wasn''t giving him any opportunities to cheat.


    Asterion and Rachael exchanged glances, noticing Ricky''s silence, though they both sensed it wasn''t just the usual kind of contemplation


    ''What am I to do, sit around and encourage you to lock me out or throw me away into that darkness whenever your mood sours.'' The Ebony Blade countered, showing that its situation was also unfair.


    ''I''m sorry I don''t enjoy having weird dreams about my ancestors; their misery, their struggles. Maybe, just maybe, I''d be a little more open to not shutting you out if it wasn''t always so bleak.'' Ricky muttered sarcastically, though his tone clearly didn''t please the Ebony Blade.


    ''You fool.'' The blade hissed, its voice dripping with ancient contempt.


    ''Even Percival understood that power comes at a price. The ability to cut through anything, everything, demands a cost. And yet, you only complain about your dreams but in need, you demand for me to give you strength.'' The Ebony Blade hatefully uttered in Ricky''s head, looking upon this shameless descendant.


    ''And yes.'' The blade continued, voice low and taunting.


    ''I stir your bloodthirst, but your bloodline''s darkness is not mine to create. I merely unearth what lurks within you.'' The Ebony Blade let out a dark chuckle echoed through Ricky''s mind.


    ''Those times you killed with me, the thoughts that surface when you slice into someone, those are entirely yours. I simply draw them to the surface.'' The Ebony Blade revealed while Ricky''s expression remained plain as he let the words sink in, contemplating the truth behind them


    "Eh." Ricky shrugged, entirely unfazed by the revelation of his own inner bloodlust as the Ebony Blade almost shivered in disbelief.


    ''W-What kind of reaction is that?'' The blade stammered, its voice laced with frustration.


    It had been biding its time, keeping this knowledge under wraps, waiting for the perfect moment to shatter Ricky''s growing reliance on it and yet here he was, brushing it off as if it were nothing.


    ''Look, everyone has those kinds of thoughts. You know, the sort of stuff people imagine in passing but would never actually do.'' Ricky said plainly as he tilted his head, considering the blade''s dramatics.


    ''Thinking about something and acting on it are two different things, it''s not some ancient family revelation that you think it is. It''s just normal human sh*t.'' Ricky continued in his mind, sighing upon seeing Garfield luckily guessed he had a queen of hearts.


    ''At everyone''s core, sometimes we all just want to beat the sh*t out of someone now and again, but we hold back.'' Ricky mused to the ebony blade, knowing full well that among every human, the majority just wanted to punch someone.


    For him, though, restraint was often just an afterthought as unlike most people, when he wanted to hit someone, he didn''t hesitate.


    And if the Ebony Blade stripped away his self-control, he had just learned to deal with it.


    ''If you cut out that restraint, yeah, it''s annoying.'' Ricky admitted, glancing back at the Ebony Blade.


    ''But I''ve learned to deal with it, sort of.'' Ricky simply shrugged, snatching only of Alexander''s cards.


    He was starting to make peace with those moments when he lost control, when the blade''s influence took over.


    The fact that he killed people didn''t bother him nearly as much as the loss of control itself, the feeling of his own mind slipping as he acted on urges that weren''t entirely his own.


    But he was adapting, accepting that not everything was within his grip, and maybe he didn''t need it to be.


    Losing his grip on himself during fights didn''t bother him as much as he might have expected anymore, it was the price he''d come to terms with as he''d realized there were things he couldn''t control, and, honestly, he didn''t want to.


    ''And another thing, don''t sit there and act like me, using you doesn''t benefit you as well.'' Ricky put down his cards and gave it a knowing smirk.


    ''I know how much you enjoy watching Percival''s descendants suffer. I''ve literally seen and felt it in those messed-up dreams.'' Ricky said, narrowing his eyes at the Ebony Blade.


    ''You enjoy tormenting me just as much as I enjoy using the best parts of your abilities, so stop pretending it''s all one-sided.'' Ricky shook his head, his tone shifting to something more practical.


    ''Listen, all I''m asking is that we kill Dracula and hash out this sh*t later.'' Ricky leveled with the Ebony Blade, receiving a dead silence which prompted him to nod his head.


    ''Good enough for me-'' Ricky started, taking the blade''s silence as agreement, but before he could finish, his legs jolted beneath him, propelling him upright as if on their own accord.


    "Ricky-"


    "Yeah, I feel it too." Ricky knew exactly what Asterion wanted to say, sensing a magical presence moving towards them at high speeds.


    Ricky''s eyes flared crimson, a sure sign that something was amiss as this was no coincidence.


    With a swift motion, he unsheathed the Ebony Blade, it''s dark edge glinting ominously in the dim light.


    He braced himself, instincts sharpening as he focused on the nearby bushes, anticipating the threat that was about to emerge.


    *WHOOSH*


    The bushes rustled violently before parting, and Ricky''s eyes widened as a figure stepped into view.


    Just as he was about to voice his surprise, Asterion emerged, his imposing presence filling the space.


    "ASTERION WAI-"


    *Smack*


    *Boom*


    Dirt and debris erupted around them as Asterion swatted the individual to the ground like a mere fly, his massive hand striking with enough force to send shockwaves through the air.


    But just as the attack landed, Ricky instinctively activated his barrier, absorbing half the impact and preventing any serious harm.


    As the dust began to settle, Asterion stood there, scratching his head in confusion, his brow furrowed at the sight beneath him.


    There, twitching in the dirt, lay a very hurt Barko, groaning in pain as he tried to comprehend what had just happened.


    "Did I do something wrong?" Asterion asked, looking bewildered as he shifted his gaze from Ricky to the battered intruder.


    Asterion was puzzled as to why Ricky had intervened, halting him from delivering a full-force attack.


    "You okay, buddy?" Ricky asked, kneeling beside Barko while outstretching a healing hand, trying to soothe the groaning creature.


    "O-Ow~" Barko whimpered, but his form was far from the familiar Labrador shape.


    Instead, he had morphed into a werewolf, his fur bristled and muscles tense, the transformation leaving him in a state of pain and confusion.


    Barko had originally intended to surprise Ricky, eager to showcase the culmination of three years of relentless practice and study.


    Barko had perfected his magical process, a transformation that turned him into a werewolf, a true testament to his hard work.


    Drawing from Abraham''s notes, Barko had managed to develop his own unique form of magic, branching off from the foundations laid before him.


    This newfound ability allowed him to tap into the magic that Ricky supplied, culminating in this impressive beastification.


    Barko''s usual appearance had been entirely transformed as he could now stand tall on powerful hind legs, each one thick and muscular, built for both strength and agility.


    His body was a striking blend of canine features and primal ferocity, covered in a dense coat of fur that shimmered in shades of deep brown and black, catching the light with a wild, untamed sheen.


    His elongated limbs boasted sinewy muscles, taut and ready to spring into action at a moment''s notice.


    Each paw was larger than before, tipped with sharp, curved claws that glinted menacingly, designed for both defense and pursuit.


    His chest was broad, giving him an imposing silhouette, while his powerful back tapered into muscular hindquarters, indicating his ability to sprint swiftly through any terrain.


    Barko''s face was a captivating mix of wolf and dog; his muzzle was elongated and tapered, filled with sharp teeth that hinted at the creature''s feral nature.


    His ears, now pointed and alert, twitched as they caught every sound around him, and his eyes glowed a bright amber, reflecting both intelligence and the wild instinct that surged within.


    Despite the pain coursing through him, there was a flicker of pride in his eyes, the knowledge that he had pushed his limits to achieve this remarkable feat.


    "This is Barko, albeit in a different state, but it''s the same dog that was with me when we first met." Ricky introduced Asterion to him once more, the mighty bull nodding before bowing deeply.


    "I fiercely apologize, I had no idea that you were that same visitor from before." Asterion apologized, Barko slowly standing up with a smile.


    "It is quite alright, part of the blame is on my behalf for not telling Slick in advance." Barko laughed heartily, clearly not upset at being swatted like a mere fly.


    "But I also came with a message from Chores, he says that everything is ready and once you break this, they will begin." Barko notified Ricky, handing him a magical trinket and adjusting his goggles that he still wore.


    Chores'' workload had been anything but minuscule in recent days as the Alchemist Legion, recognizing his exceptional talent, had appointed him as a chief officer during his time with them.


    This promotion came with heightened responsibilities and expectations, and Chores found himself immersed in a whirlwind of tasks and projects that challenged his skills.


    The intricate alchemical books from Daedalus had played a pivotal role in this transformation.


    They weren''t just ordinary tomes; each one was filled with wisdom and complex diagrams, exploring the depths of magical theory and the art of creation.


    Chores had poured over these texts, allowing the knowledge within to seep into his mind, igniting his creativity and ambition.


    It was from this relentless studying and dedication that he had honed his ability to craft, improve, and utilize these creations.


    Each day, Chores would find himself in the bustling heart of the Alchemist Legion''s workshop, surrounded by a symphony of bubbling potions and the clinking of glassware.


    He reveled in the atmosphere, where the air was thick with the scent of herbs and the electricity of the item''s they created and their potential.


    His hands moved deftly, combining rare ingredients into complex mixtures, often experimenting with new ideas that sparked in his mind.


    His knack for creation soon became evident as he developed enchanted items that not only showcased his ingenuity but also significantly aided the Legion''s endeavors.


    Chores poured his passion into each piece, eager to push the boundaries of his abilities and further himself.


    The sense of purpose that came with his new role was invigorating, yet it was not without its challenges.


    The pressure to perform at a higher level weighed on him, and Chores often found himself wrestling with self-doubt.


    But each time he saw the fruits of his labor in action, an apprentice using one of his creations successfully or a fellow officer praising his ingenuity, his confidence blossomed further.


    He realized that this was not merely a job; it was his calling, one that intertwined his love for innovation.


    "Alright, good work." Ricky pocketed the trinket, patting Barko''s shoulder as he looked back at everyone.


    "Now, let''s pack up and get ready to murder Dracula." Ricky proclaimed, turning back to everyone who merely rolled their eyes.


    "Wait, wait, I''m going to win-urgh!" Garfield, about to claim Alexander''s last card, was suddenly yanked away by Ricky.


    "It seems that we''ll have to settle for a draw." Alexander shamelessly looked to the side, Garfield''s mouth gaping at him.


    "W-Wha-WHAT!" Garfield looked at the reader, then back at Alexander, then hissed at the gerbil before him.


    "You little rat-"


    "RAT! I AM A MIGHTY GERBIL YOU FOUL FELINE-"


    "WHO ARE YOU CALLING FELINE-"


    *Snap*


    In an instant, Ricky snapped his fingers, and with a subtle flicker of magic, two soundproof bubbles materialized around the familiars'' heads, silencing their chatter.


    The shimmering barriers wrapped snugly around them, muting any sound that tried to escape.


    Startled, the familiars turned their eyes to Ricky, clearly baffled yet intrigued by this sudden act.


    Ricky gave them a steady, knowing look, one eyebrow raised as if daring them to question his move and then laughed knowing they couldn''t.


    "Wow, is that? Silence?!" Ricky said sarcastically, receiving deadpan glares from the familiars.


    *Snap*


    "Magic has to be the sexiest thing ever, minus naked women." Ricky added at the end, laughing to himself while tucking Garfield into his arm pit and marching forward.


    4 hours later,


    For the past four hours, they had been trudging deeper into Romania, each step bringing them closer to the border.


    The terrain grew wilder, dense forests lining their path, casting elongated shadows in the fading light.


    Ricky walked with a determined stride, his focus unwavering, while Garfield was tucked into his armpit like a hefty barrel, arms and legs dangling with each step.


    "Why can''t you carry me like a normal human carries a normal cat?" Garfield grumbled, glancing up at Ricky, who held him effortlessly with one arm wrapped snugly around his belly, his legs and tail dangling unceremoniously.


    Ricky rolled his eyes, lifting Garfield slightly by the scruff and giving him a little shake.


    "Do any of you want to hold the fat cat?" Ricky called over his shoulder to Rachel and Asterion, waving Garfield in their direction with a grin.


    Both Rachel and Asterion rubbed their shoulders, visibly exhausted. Every attempt they''d made to carry Garfield had been met with endless complaints and apparently, no method was ever the ''right way'' for him as he was too cold, too warm, too high up, too low.


    Furthermore each of his sarcastic, passive-aggressive quips chipped away at their patience.


    Even Asterion, the mighty Father of all minotaurs, was starting to look mentally drained, his eyes slightly glazed as Garfield''s unrelenting critiques wore him down before the minotaur looked away, clearly not wanting to deal with him.


    "I was going to apologize for my comments earlier." Garfield said, his tone a mix of feigned regret and smug satisfaction.


    "But clearly, I was right about everything." Garfield shook his head, casting a disappointed glance at his companions.


    Asterion ducked his head, ears twitching in defeat, while Rachel rubbed her temples, muttering something hateful under her breath about him being fat.


    "And I''m not fat, just big-boned," Garfield grumbled, looking down at his round belly and giving it a small, indignant wiggle.


    "Well, taking out your obese form, when you walk on your own, you constantly whine about how long until we''re there." Ricky shot back, shifting Garfield to face him as the fat cat crossed his paws, giving him a pointed glare.


    "Why can''t you just teleport us there or whatever?" Garfield huffed, waving his paw dismissively, clearly exasperated by the limitations of Ricky''s magic.


    "Because I haven''t been anywhere except in the heart of the castle and I don''t really want to be attacked on all sides. Do you think I like walking and sneaking around?" Ricky asked, his tone genuine, as he looked at Garfield''s pouting face.


    "Alright, either I carry you by your scruff or stuff you under my armpit. Your pick." Ricky sighed, giving him a final choice before he simply threw him in the storage space.


    At that moment, Garfield seemed to freeze, his ears flicking as though he''d heard something unexpected.


    A sudden awareness dawned on his face, and, hearing the echo of narration itself, he shut his mouth.


    The complaints that had been rolling off his tongue moments before simmered away, his eyes narrowing with a mixture of suspicion and resignation.


    "Under the armpit," Garfield muttered, defeated, as Ricky shook his head and tucked him securely back under his arm.


    "Do not worry, Mighty Garfield! Our thirst for battle shall be quenched in this life-or-death duel!" Alexander chimed in, trying to rally Garfield''s spirits from the side.


    "Our thirst?" Garfield shot him a horrified look, his ears flattening as he''d had grand plans to nap the day away, not get involved in any skirmish.


    "Of course!" Alexander declared, nodding enthusiastically, holding his fury paw up high.


    "We, familiars-in-arms, shall use our combined strengths to make our enemies weep!" Alexander heartily laughed out, imagining the bloody battle already with a gleeful expression.


    Garfield''s face twisted into an exaggerated frown as he shot a sideways glance at Alexander, then broke the fourth wall to stare flatly at the reader.


    Then he sighed, clearly resigned to his fate but no less displeased about it, and turned back to Alexander with an eye-roll.


    "I-...I''d rather not." Garfield muttered, shaking his head slowly, his expression one of utter reluctance as he glanced away from Alexander''s eager grin.


    His gaze drifted upward, catching sight of an old, weathered sign just ahead that marked the end of their long journey.


    "Oh, finally." Garfield sighed in relief, his whole body relaxing as he squinted to make out the faded letters.


    "We''re here."


    Above them, the sign creaked in the breeze, its worn wood and peeling paint clearly spelling out their destination.


    ''Welcome to Translviana.''


    "Finally-"


    Everyone halted in unison as Ricky unsheathed the Ebony Blade, its dark edge glinting with an ominous shimmer once more as his grimoire hovered above him, pages fluttering as though alive.


    Asterion simply rolled his shoulders, the crack of his neck echoing in the tense silence, while Rachael''s entire posture shifted, every muscle taut with anticipation as she looked skyward.


    High above, floating amidst storm-dark clouds that swirled and pulsed with arcane energy, was a figure whose mere presence sent a shiver through any ordinary bystander.


    Lilith hung in the air like an ominous shadow, her gaze drifting over them with a detached curiosity, as if assessing their worth.


    Her eyes sparkled with a mixture of intrigue and something darker, her cloak billowing in the charged air.


    "Blackened hair, red eyes, and an appearance that perfectly matches my grandfather''s description. You must be Lilith Tepes." Rachael''s nails sharpened and extended into claws, her pupils narrowing into fierce golden slits as her stance shifted, every instinct readying for a fight.


    ''Nice.'' Ricky couldn''t help but think, a sleazy smile spreading across his face as he shamelessly appraised the beautiful undead woman before him as his gaze roamed over each striking feature.


    "The one and only." Lilith smirked, gesturing grandly to herself, her voice dripping with self-assuredness as she studied each of them in turn.


    But when her gaze landed on Asterion, a flicker of surprise passed over her face, her confident expression momentarily slipping as her eyes widened and then shrunk, betraying a hint of unease.


    "Alright, seriously, Asterion, just how powerful are you?" Ricky gave the minotaur a sidelong glance, genuinely baffled at the vampire''s reaction.


    "Well, I do not know how to compare myself to today''s power structure." Asterion admitted, scratching his head in confusion.


    "But when I entombed myself, I faced solid ground against the likes of Hercules." Asterion''s brow furrowed, unsure of how to express the vastness of his strength in terms relevant to the present.


    "Hey, hey, use your magic boost!" Ricky exclaimed, shaking Garfield in his other hand.


    The cat let out an exasperated sigh, clearly annoyed at being jostled, but nonetheless complied.


    An orange glow began to radiate from him, illuminating the dim surroundings with a warm, vibrant light.


    As the glow intensified, a wave of energy surged through the air, wrapping around Asterion and enhancing his formidable presence.


    In his right hand, Ricky gripped the pouting ebony blade while his left hand crackled with energy, a radiant orange glow swirling around it like a contained storm, serving as his own personal power bank.


    Beside him, his grimoire floated effortlessly, pages fluttering as if alive with potential, the arcane knowledge it contained almost palpable in the air.


    Donned with almost all of his formidable equipment, Ricky exuded an aura of confidence and strength that even caught Lilith off guard.


    The intensity of his presence made her consider, for the first time, that he might actually possess the capability to close the gap with Dracula, especially given the vampire lord''s current weakened state.


    Her red eyes narrowed in scrutiny, weighing his potential against her own, and for a moment, a flicker of respect passed through her expression.


    "As that wet dog stated, I am-"


    *BAM*


    In the next instant, Rachael transformed, her werewolf features half-materializing in a breathtaking display of power and ferocity.


    With a swift and determined leap, she soared through the air and delivered a devastating punch that sent Lilith crashing into the ground, the impact kicking up a cloud of dust and debris.


    The moment hung in the air, a tense silence enveloping the group as Ricky, Barko, and Asterion exchanged glances, a shared understanding dawning upon them.


    "Can I finish-"


    *BOOM*


    Rachael pressed the advantage, launching another powerful frontal attack as Lilith collided with a nearby boulder, sending it shattering into a thousand pieces, the sound echoing through the forest like thunder.


    Dust and debris filled the air, but Ricky was already in motion, activating a spell he had recently mastered from Agatha after achieving his magical progress.


    "Search." Ricky commanded, feeling the energy of the spell flow through him.


    A shimmering aura expanded around the group, enhancing their senses as Ricky frowned, noticing Asterion''s nod of agreement as he glanced over at Barko, who had transformed into his werewolf form, his keen instincts still on high alert.


    "There''s no one here. She''s all alone?" Ricky mused, feeling a mix of confusion while his eyes flicked to Alexander, who was furrowing his brow, deep in thought.


    "Could it be a ruse, perhaps?" Alexander speculated, scanning the dense surroundings for any signs of hidden enemies.


    Yet, no additional threats emerged; the forest remained still, eerily quiet after the initial chaos.


    "While they go on their tirade, I say we kill time with that interesting game called ''Go Fish''?" Asterion suggested, gesturing grandly with a large hand.


    "Shouldn''t we help?" Barko piped up, his concern evident as he shuffled closer, still in his werewolf form.


    Ricky shot him a quizzical look, eyebrows raised as if the answer was patently obvious.


    "Dude, chick fight?" Ricky replied, his tone playful, yet with an undercurrent of serious observation.


    "You really think we should jump in? It''s more entertaining to see how this plays out. And besides, look." Ricky pointed backward, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.


    Barko turned around, his eyes widening as he took in the spectacle before him.


    The two women were tearing into each other with fervor, their bodies glistening as sweat streamed down their skin from the exertion of their battle.


    Each punch, each kick, seemed to strip away not just their clothing but the very veneer of civility they had maintained.


    "Oh, wow." Barko stammered, gulping hard as he tried to process the sight.


    The mighty minotaur stood there, arms crossed and nodding his massive head in agreement.


    "Ugh, not this crappy game." Garfield grumbled as he slouched in Ricky''s lap, his paws flopping uselessly over the edge.


    He glanced down at the cards that materialized in his paws with a mix of disdain and disbelief.


    "Why do we even have to play this-"


    "SHUT IT, FUR FACE! THIS GAME IS A NEVER-ENDING BATTLE OF SEISMIC PROPORTIONS! I SHALL NOT TAKE IT ANY OTHER WAY!" Alexander roared, his voice booming through the clearing, drawing the attention of the other combatants momentarily before they resumed their struggle.


    *Cough*


    "I apologize, forgive my uncouth manner." Alexander lightly coughed, clearly embarrassed at showing that side of him.


    "He takes it really seriously." Ricky whispered towards the slightly shocked Garfield, never hearing this tone from Alexander before.


    *BOOM*


    "WHY WON''T YOU LISTEN TO ME!" Lilith hissed, her hair disheveled, strands hanging loosely as if reflecting her growing frustration.


    Her eyes flared with anger, narrowing at Rachael, who stood resolute, hands clasped together as if in prayer.


    "Your father has tormented my family for generations! How would you feel in my shoes after seeing his daughter arrogantly gazing down at me?" Rachael shot back, her voice steady but laced with emotion.


    With a swift motion, she spread her hands apart, and flashes of blinding light burst forth from all sides, swirling around her in a mesmerizing dance.


    The light coalesced into hundreds of miniature arrows, glinting with lethal potential.


    Each arrow thrummed with energy, reflecting Rachael''s fury and her determination to reclaim her family''s honor.


    Lilith''s hands pulsated with a scarlet-red aura, her vampiric features sharpening as she prepared to counter.


    The air crackled with tension as she sensed the potency of Rachael''s magic.


    Scratching her hands through the air, ripples formed, coursing into a protective scarlet shield that encased her in a shimmering barrier.


    The other hand, however, pulsed with a deeper, more ominous red, gathering dark energy as she prepared to unleash her own fury.


    *BOOM*


    The arrows slammed into Lilith''s shield, creating a dazzling display of sparks as magic collided with magic.


    The shield buckled under the relentless assault, and just as it seemed it might shatter, Rachael''s entire body exploded forward, fueled by a surge of adrenaline and righteous fury.


    She charged with unwavering determination, tearing the small crack in Lilith''s defenses wider, the air crackling around her as she rushed toward her adversary.


    Seeing Rachael close the distance, Lilith quickly reacted as she reached out her hand, palm facing Rachael, her eyes narrowing as she concentrated.


    In an instant, she detonated her own hand, unleashing a wave of pure magical power that rippled outward like a shockwave.


    The ground beneath her trembled as crimson energy exploded forth, the blast emanating from her hand with a force that sent debris flying.


    Rachael braced herself against the oncoming wave, instinctively summoning her own magic to counteract the force.


    The two powers clashed in midair, a blinding display of light and shadow as they fought for dominance.


    The air hummed with energy, each combatant drawing on their deepest reserves of power, neither willing to yield an inch.


    *BOOOM*


    The shockwave from their clash sent both women flying backwards, their bodies tumbling through the air before crashing into the ground.


    Dust and debris erupted around them, obscuring the battlefield for a brief moment.


    As the clouds of dirt settled, the distance between them was once again established, each taking a moment to regain their footing.


    Lilith gritted her fangs, the sharp points of her canines glinting menacingly in the dim light.


    The vampiress clutched her wrist, feeling the throb of pain as her regeneration kicked in.


    Dark energy swirled around her, knitting the damage back together even as she grimaced in frustration.


    Her crimson eyes narrowed as she glanced toward Rachael, who was rising to her feet, undeterred by the violent exchange.


    In her full holy werewolf transformation, Rachael exuded a primal power that radiated from her like a beacon.


    Her fur bristled with energy, and her eyes burned with an intelligence that was both calculating and filled with fierce rage.


    The remnants of her transformation shimmered around her, a reflection of her inner strength and determination as every muscle in her body was coiled, ready to spring into action.


    "Do you have any of this card?" Asterion asked, lifting a large card toward Ricky with a curious tilt of his head, his massive fingers surprisingly gentle as they displayed the vibrant image and as Ricky peered at the card, he shook his head.


    "No, that''s a three. So you''ll need to say, ''Do you have any threes?''" Ricky paused for a moment, giving Asterion an encouraging nod as the bull processed the information.


    "If I don''t have it, I''ll say ''Go Fish,'' and then you''ll draw another card from the pile." Ricky explained, walking Asterion through the game.


    "Ah, now I''ve picked up a king-" Asterion narrated, picking up the card and showing everyone.


    *Sigh*


    Everyone sighed as Asterion continued to voice out his cards before showing them to everyone just in case.


    "Asterion, do you have any kings?" Alexander shouted, practically bouncing in place, his eagerness palpable as he leaned forward.


    "Indeed I do, here you go." Asterion replied with a broad smile, his massive hand reaching over to pass two gleaming kings to Alexander.


    With a triumphant grin, Alexander placed both kings down on the makeshift table, their shiny faces glinting.


    "BLACK KNIGHT, I HAVE A-" Lilith yelled at Ricky from the side, only for Rachael to materialize next to her in the blink of an eye.


    *BAM*


    Lilith''s body was sent flying a considerable distance, her bones creaking ominously as she crashed into the ground.


    Gritting her teeth against the pain, she pushed herself up, rage igniting in her eyes while slowly standing up.


    "That''s it! You want to fight? Then you''ll reap all that you''ve sown!" Lilith hissed, her hands glowing with a furious red energy and with a fierce determination, she slammed her hands against the ground.


    "My ghouls, hear your queen''s command! Rise to carry out my orders!" Lilith screamed out, strands of hair cascading down her face showing that any intention of holding back, had been broken.


    The earth trembled beneath her, and as if responding to her furious call, the ground erupted around her.


    Several skeletal hands clawed their way up from the dirt, gnarled fingers grasping for the air as ghoulish figures began to pull themselves free.


    Each ghoul bore the markings of Lilith''s dark magic, their eyes glowing with an eerie light as they answered her summons.


    "Oh Queen of Blood, we have received your call." A sinister chant echoed through the air, the ghouls crawling out from the dirt that acted as a gateway to heed their queen''s commands.


    The ground quaked as pure blackened armor began to materialize around Lilith, its design a grotesque fusion of twisted metal and the bones of fallen foes.


    With every pulse of magic, the armor glimmered ominously, enhancing her already formidable presence.


    Her power rippled through the air, crackling like electricity as she readied herself for the onslaught.


    *SPLAT*


    *SPLAT*


    Rachael''s heart raced as she dove into the chaos, her instincts kicking in as she faced the relentless horde of ghouls summoned by Lilith.


    Each swing of her claws was precise and deadly, a testament to her ferocity and training.


    She was a whirlwind of motion, her form a blur as she unleashed a barrage of strikes, tearing through the undead creatures with an agility that belied her werewolf strength.


    With a single swing, her claws sliced through the neck of one ghoul, its head lolling to the side as it crumpled to the ground.


    Rachael felt the satisfying resistance of flesh and bone give way under her powerful strikes.


    Another swipe took off the arm of a second ghoul, the limb falling uselessly to the dirt as Rachael''s momentum carried her forward.


    She could feel the adrenaline coursing through her veins, heightening her senses as she engaged in the dance of death.


    But the sheer number of Lilith''s minions was staggering as for every ghoul she felled, two more seemed to take its place, their hollow eyes glinting with a sinister hunger.


    The ground became a battlefield littered with the remains of the fallen, yet the tide of ghouls surged onward, drawn by their queen''s command.


    Rachael fought back against the rising tide, her muscles straining as she pushed through the weight of the overwhelming horde.


    Claws raked against her skin, and she could feel the tug of their cold, decaying hands as they tried to drag her down.


    "Get off me!" Rachael growled, shaking off one of the ghouls as she brought her knee up, smashing it into its chest with a sickening crunch.


    Her breaths were coming fast, and she felt a flicker of panic rise within her as she realized she was becoming outnumbered.


    The ghouls began to envelop her, their numbers overwhelming yet Rachael''s resolve hardened.


    Barko watched the chaotic scene unfold, a mix of concern and anticipation in his gaze as Rachael engaged in a fierce battle against Lilith''s horde.


    The sounds of snarls and the clashing of claws echoed through the air, but his attention was pulled away by Ricky''s nonchalant response.


    "Will she be alright?" Barko asked, his voice laced with worry, as he shifted slightly in his werewolf form, muscles rippling under his fur.


    "Yeah, probably." Ricky shrugged, his casual demeanor contrasting sharply with the intensity of the fight happening just a few yards away.


    He seemed almost unfazed by the violence, his eyes flickering between the battle and his friends as they played their intense game of Go Fish.


    Alexander, on the other hand, was a bundle of nerves, his body shaking with a mix of excitement and anxiety not at the battle, but at Garfield''s eyes that formed into crescent moons.


    "Alexander, give me your four and then your two." Garfield said, extending his paw with an exaggerated flick.


    Alexander fell to his knees, his expression one of utter defeat as he shuffled through his cards with a resigned sigh, handing over the requested cards to the nonchalant feline.


    "Who''s the fur face now?" Garfield quipped, setting the two pairs of cards triumphantly onto the rock between them.


    Alexander''s shoulders slumped as he realized he had once again lost to the lazy cat, internal cries of despair echoing in his mind.


    "You''re not even trying!" Alexander exclaimed, exasperated, but a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips despite the situation.


    "Hey, don''t hate the player, hate how horrible you are at this kid''s game." Garfield replied with a smirk, rolling onto his back and scratching his belly.


    *Splat*


    "Do you think that mere ghouls can stop me?" Rachael''s voice dripped with disdain as she flicked her wrist, effortlessly dispatching two more of Lilith''s undead minions.


    Dust and dark ichor exploded around her, marking the ground with the remnants of her attack.


    "No, but they will halt your brutish actions long enough to pitch my proposal." Lilith retorted, raising her hand dramatically as four grotesque abominations spiraled toward Rachael.


    Each creature, a twisted mockery of life, bore the scars of their unnatural creation, yet they advanced with unsettling determination.


    Rachael''s brow furrowed, her fierce scowl deepening as she crushed one of the abominations with a swift kick, the monster''s form collapsing into a heap of rotting flesh and bone in mere seconds.


    "I know you seek to end my father. I haven''t come to stop you but to assist you in your efforts!" Lilith''s voice rang out, urgency lacing her words as she quickly yelled towards Ricky, who was momentarily distracted by the chaos of the battle.


    "Huh?" Ricky looked up, his attention torn from his cards as he tried to make sense of the situation.


    He glanced at Alexander, who was practically in tears, the game they were playing momentarily forgotten amidst the escalating tension.


    "I hate my father as well and wish for his demise!" Lilith added, desperation clear in her voice as she fought to gain their trust.


    ''Is that, daddy issues I hear?'' Ricky''s ears twitched at her revelation, his sleazy smile widening at the prospect of banging Dracula''s daughter.


    "Is that so?" Ricky replied, curiosity piqued as he tossed his cards aside, his focus now entirely on Lilith.


    He approached her with a casual swagger, the battlefield around them momentarily fading from his mind.


    "Ricky, she is lying-" Rachael yelled out, trying to push past the abominations only to be pushed back, but Ricky held up a hand.


    "Let''s hear her out first; it''s only reasonable, after all." Ricky''s tone was light, almost teasing, as he walked closer to the haggard Lilith, who stood amidst the destruction with a mixture of defiance and vulnerability.


    "Hey, how you doing, I''m the Black Knight." Ricky introduced, Lilith brushing her dangling strands to the right and forcing a smile.


    "Lilith Tepes."


    *DING*


    [Mission Received: Lilith Tepes]


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: S+


    Description: From a young age, she has witnessed the neglect and tyranny that come with his obsessive pursuit of power that killed her mother, fostering an intense resentment that has only grown over the years. This resentment fuels her determination to break free from his shadow, driving her obsession with not only wanting to kill him but also to claim the power he so coveted and used to abandon her. Her daddy issues manifest in a rejection of traditional notions of love or familial affection; instead, she craves validation through vengeance and power. Lilith''s desire to usurp her father''s strength reflects her need to assert her own identity and value, warped by the emotional scars left by his abandonment.


    Objective: Daddy issues = Introduction Into Motherhood 101


    Reward: 100,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once:


    Rewards: 400 Gacha or Lilith Tepe''s Innate Powers


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Fill her empty void either Physically or Emotionally:


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Have Lilith Open Up While Inside Of Her:


    Reward: Legendary Item


    Have The Prideful Lilith Beg For More:


    Reward: 200,000 IP


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ''Oh god, yes.''


    "God, you''re beautiful." Ricky''s voice dripped with charm, his gaze lingering on Lilith as he fought to suppress the distractions around them.


    "I know you hear it often, but I speak from genuine admiration for such rare elegance." Ricky compliments in a practiced sophisticated way.


    All the while, Rachael, still in the midst of battling one of Lilith''s abominations, paused momentarily, her hands flexing as she crushed the creature into nothingness.


    Rachael glanced over, bewildered by Ricky''s sudden shift in focus before hatefully smashing the head of another abomination.


    "I think we got off on the wrong foot because of my empty-headed associate over there." Ricky continued, his tone light and teasing as he reached for Lilith''s hand.


    Ricky gently led her away from the battlefield with Rachael, who shot them a perplexed look while Lilith cast a sidelong glance at her.


    "And here I thought chivalry was dead." Lilith chuckled, a sly smile gracing her lips as she redirected her attention back to Ricky, the amusement sparkling in her eyes.


    "So, what can the Black Knight do for such a beautiful creature like yourself?" Ricky asked, his demeanor nonchalant, the reality of her lineage, a lineage that made her his enemy, barely registering in his mind.


    Lilith was a vision of danger and allure, and that captivated him more than any potential fallout.


    "It''s not what you can do for me; it''s what I can do for you." Lilith leaned in slightly, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper as her words danced between them, playful yet laden with promise as she walked toe to toe with him.


    "What can you do for me?" Ricky''s thoughts raced, and his imagination strayed into tantalizing territories, envisioning her beneath him, moaning softly, surrendering to the moment.


    "Help you sneak across the Transylvanian borders and kill Dracula, of course." Lilith''s voice was steady, but the glimmer of hatred in her eyes betrayed the depth of her resolve.


    "You want to kill your father? What has he done to wrong someone so heartfelt and genuine?" Ricky flattered her, already aware of her painful history, the death of her mother at Dracula''s hands after reading the description.


    "Many things, but this is about revenge for my mother''s death." Lilith''s composure was unwavering, though the pain lingered beneath the surface.


    "Does wanting to kill my own father worry you?" Lilith challenged, a hint of mischief lacing her tone.


    "Of course not, I think it''s great for relationships like ours to start on honesty rather than lies." Ricky shamelessly declared, a sly smile creeping onto his face.


    Lilith chuckled at his boldness, recognizing his flirtation but seeing no harm in leveraging his affections to fulfill her own goals.


    "Oh, and what kind of relationship do we have now?" Lilith asked, leaning in slightly, showing her curiosity piqued while subtle revealing her cleavage to his eyes.


    "The-"


    "The nothing kind." Rachael interjected, yanking Ricky away from Lilith.


    The sudden movement caught Lilith off guard, and she raised an eyebrow, hateful by the abruptness of Rachael''s gesture.


    "Uh, what are you doing?" Ricky whispered sideways, maintaining his playful smile despite Rachael''s growing annoyance.


    "This is obviously a ploy concocted by Dracula to kill us. It''s a trap!" Rachael hissed back, her voice tight with anger.


    "But what if, now hear me out on this, she not only hates her father but also fell in love with me at first sight?" Ricky suggested, a confident glint in his eyes, even though Rachael''s expression remained deadpan.


    "I mean, think about it. She wants to kill her dad, I want to kill her dad, you want to kill her dad. Maybe we could all just join forces and really feel it out?" Ricky indirectly proposed a three-way alliance, though Rachael''s frown deepened at his implication.


    "You''re disgusting." Rachael''s words were blunt, cutting through the air like a knife as Ricky''s shamelessness flashed across his face, showing that her comments did nothing to silence his charm.


    "In a lot of ways, aren''t we all disgusting?" Ricky said, giving Rachael a light pat on the shoulder before turning back to Lilith.


    The shift in his demeanor was instantaneous; he was back in the game, charm at the ready.


    "Lilith, baby, we''ve decided to take you up on your offer-"


    *SIGH*


    Ricky was on the verge of irresponsibly succumbing to this smokeshow''s allure when he abruptly halted, rubbing his forehead in exasperation.


    "Black Knight, is there a problem-"


    "We can''t go with you, sorry." Ricky held back his tears, the words slipping from his lips and before he could second-guess himself.


    Ricky suddenly turned his back on Lilith in a decisive motion, leaving everyone stunned, most notably Alexander and Barko.


    "I-Impossible?" Alexander''s voice cracked as he dropped the cards from his hands, his disbelief palpable and beside him, Barko''s jaw hung open in shock.


    "I-I never thought I would see the day." Barko admitted, rubbing his goggles in a futile attempt to clear his vision of the unfolding drama.


    Ignoring their astonishment, Ricky continued to walk away, resolute in his choice.


    It was as if the universe had conspired to create a rare spectacle: a shooting star glistening against the night sky, a once-in-a-lifetime event where Ricky wasn''t recklessly and impulsively chasing after the gorgeous woman before him.


    For once, he seemed to grasp the weight of his decisions, choosing caution over temptation, a fleeting moment of clarity amidst his usual bravado.


    As he stepped away, the air shifted, the tension in the atmosphere palpable, leaving both Rachael and Lilith momentarily stunned by the Black Knight''s unexpected restraint.


    "Black Knight, did I do something wrong?" Lilith called after him, her voice laced with confusion and a hint of desperation.


    She tried to close the distance, but Ricky deftly dodged her advance, sidestepping with a grace that seemed almost instinctual and suddenly, Rachael materialized in front of Lilith, her stance protective and firm.


    "You heard the BLACK KNIGHT. We will not be trusting you so easily." Rachael glared up at Lilith, her expression unyielding while gnashing her fangs.


    Ricky plopped down on a nearby stone, his fists clenched tightly as he fought against the degenerative urges clawing at him, urging him to join Lilith.


    Just moments ago, he had been on the brink of surrendering to temptation like usual, ready to abandon his carefully laid plans for a woman who embodied everything he had ever desired.


    Yet, as he stood there, he reflected on the journey that had brought him to this point, the countless hours spent honing his skills, the sacrifices he had made to rise above his past.


    This impending war against Dracula wasn''t just about vengeance; it was a pivotal moment in his life, a chance to fully move on and never look back.


    The thought of throwing all of that away for a fleeting thrill sent a wave of clarity crashing over him and although Ricky desperately wanted to, he couldn''t let his libido dictate his actions this time.


    The road to change isn''t marked by huge leaps or dramatic instances; it''s paved with small steps, each one building on the last, carving a path toward something greater.


    Ricky took a deep breath, grounding himself in that realization as in a way, Rachael was painfully right.


    These past three years were marked for killing Dracula and although there was a chance she was telling the truth, he had to pass this time.


    Ricky was committed to change, determined to emerge stronger and more resilient than before.


    The allure of Lilith''s beauty would have to wait; he had a war to fight and a future to forge, one small step at a time.


    "Oh, Black Knight, why do you tug at my heart like this?" Lilith purred, her voice a sultry whisper as she glided closer, her fingers grazing her own skin in a way that sent a shiver down Ricky''s spine.


    He could feel the heat rising within him, his body responding instinctively to her allure.


    In a desperate attempt to regain control, he fumbled through his inventory and grabbed a paper bag, pressing it to his mouth.


    Inhale. Exhale. Inhale. Exhale.


    "Think of saggy old naked grandmas. Think of-....think of anything that isn''t a busty vampire babe sucking not just your blood, but your cock-dammit!" Ricky''s thoughts raced, fighting against the images flooding his mind.


    But no matter how hard he tried to picture something repulsive, all he could envision was Lilith, seductive and intoxicating, draining him dry in more ways than one.


    Biting down on his knuckle, Ricky glanced sideways to see Alexander charging toward him, determination etched on his face.


    The sight of his comrade''s frantic efforts to assist him filled Alexander with a flicker of hope.


    "Ricky, you truly are a remarkable man for resisting such a temptress! I applaud your strength!" Alexander scampered up the length of Ricky''s shoulder, his tiny paws steadying themselves as he perched confidently.


    "No, Alexander, I''m weak. I am a weak man." Ricky replied, struggling to hold his urges from controlling his actions as he regarded the little gerbil, who shook his head emphatically.


    "Not at all! You''ve never turned away from a beautiful woman''s advances before, let alone for your own betterment. This is progress!" Alexander exclaimed, playfully tapping Ricky''s cheek in celebration.


    "Lucky would be proud of you, I''m sure of it." Alexander added, his words causing Ricky to pause and look downward, uncertainty flickering in his eyes.


    "You really think so?" Ricky asked, and Alexander nodded vigorously.


    "Absolutely! The man I see before me today is not the same one I saw yesterday, or even three years ago!" Alexander continued, his voice filled with encouragement, and Ricky couldn''t help but nod in agreement.


    Taking a deep breath, Ricky turned around, his attention drawn to Lilith, who struck a sensual pose nearby, while Rachael stood to the side, her expression one of disgust.


    "Lilith-"


    "Yes, Black Knight~" Lilith bit her lip, a playful wink aimed at Ricky making him shiver involuntarily as he took another deep breath, steeling himself.


    "I''m sorry, but I can''t just trust your words. Rachael, take care of her." Ricky pointed at Lilith, his expression shifting to one of determination as Lilith''s shock was palpable.


    "W-What-" Lilith stammered, taken aback by his sudden intensity.


    "I can''t let you jeopardize the entire plan. If you leave, you''ll tell your father, and I refuse to let my three-year revenge scheme be derailed by a busty, drop dead gorgeous, distraction, even though I really, really want you to ruin me." Ricky turned away, the conflict evident in his posture as he wrestled with his desires as Alexander tapped his cheek gently, offering silent support.


    "Small steps lead to the biggest leaps. Well done, Ricky!" Alexander encouraged, his voice bright with enthusiasm.


    Nearby, Garfield lounged lazily, swaying his tail in the air as he observed the scene with a weird expression.


    "Am I the only one expecting more?" Garfield addressed the reader, unaware that this moment was a significant milestone for someone like Ricky.


    "Like, is this progress? He just turned down a human female, how difficult can that be?" Garfield rolled his eyes, his large, ungainly form exuding a sense of nonchalance.


    His hefty demeanor reflected a life devoid of feline admirers, leaving him unable to grasp the weight of Ricky''s achievement.


    Maybe if he didn''t have thirteen rolls of dough in his belly, maybe if he didn''t smell like rotten turkey under the sun-


    "Alright, I get it, geez!" Garfield grumbled, cutting off the author''s narrative once more.


    The fattest cat in the world turned away, attempting to mask his irritation, but the author could easily see through his facade since the story was literally written by him.


    The flush of anger on Garfield''s face betrayed his frustration, making it clear that he was struggling to contain his resentment.


    *AHEM*


    "I think that killing her is a tad too drastic, what do you think Asterion?" Barko adjusted his goggles, looking over at Asterion but Rachael cracked her knuckles.


    "Yeah maybe Barko''s right, maybe we should just like take a second to really think about this again-" Ricky mulled over, rubbing his chin as Alexander rested his furry paw on his cheek.


    "Ricky, just let this fish go, just go fish." Alexander spoke of wise words, referencing the hardest game in the world.


    "But it''s such a sexy fish." Ricky''s head collapsed into his hands while Alexander patted his shoulder.


    "Indeed."


    "I think it''s justified, killing her I mean." Rachael said, her gaze fixed on Lilith as she began to gather mana in her hand, preparing to confront Ricky. Suddenly, Asterion stood, commanding attention.


    "Swear to me on the River Styx that your words are true and concise." Asterion''s eyes glowed with an intense blue light, causing Lilith to tremble as the divine energy radiating from him made her acutely aware of the power he wielded.


    "Y-You''re a god-" Lilith stammered, her voice barely above a whisper while immediately looking for a way to escape.


    "Partially." Asterion replied, his tone steady, closing the distance in a second.


    "I am Poseidon''s indirect creation, which means my ties to the Greek pantheon and their divinity are genuine." Asterion loomed over Lilith, his towering presence casting a shadow that felt inescapable.


    "But I thought you could only swear by the River Styx in Greece?" Rachael interjected from the side, curiosity lacing her tone.


    "In this instance, although we are not in Greece, I am still connected to the River Styx. Thus, a promise made with it remains binding." Asterion explained, his voice firm and unwavering.


    Lilith was caught off guard, realizing that while she knew Asterion was powerful, she hadn''t considered that he might actually be connected to actual divinity.


    "Did you know that-"


    "No idea," Alexander interrupted, shaking his head as Ricky nodded in agreement, his attention fixed on Lilith as he processed the unfolding situation.


    "I-I-"


    "Lilith, you either swear upon the Styx, or you''ll die here," Ricky said, his tone serious as he understood that everything would be for nothing if she chose to leave.


    "I-I swear on the River Styx." Lilith stammered, her fangs gnashing in frustration as she ducked her head in defeat, realizing that any tricks she might have planned would be futile.


    Ricky frowned, the tension in his mind palpable as he grappled with the implications of Lilith''s words.


    His lie detector skill, a power he relied on to navigate the murky waters of deceit, had remained conspicuously silent throughout their conversation.


    On the surface, it suggested that Lilith was being truthful; however, an unsettling intuition nagged at him.


    It was clear she wasn''t being entirely honest, a reality he could feel in the pit of his stomach.


    As he reflected on their dialogue, Ricky recalled moments when Lilith had hesitated, her responses carefully crafted yet evasive.


    If she truly meant what she claimed, why hadn''t she provided direct answers to his questions?


    Instead, her words seemed to dance around the truth, bending it just enough to fit her narrative without breaking it entirely.


    This realization was compounded by the understanding that people often employ half-truths and subtle manipulations to shield their true intentions.


    ''That''s problematic; I need to utilize this better in the future.'' Ricky mused as he sheathed the ebony blade, the weight of his thoughts settling heavily on his shoulders.


    The realization that Lilith had been bending the truth nagged at him, a reminder that he couldn''t afford to be na?ve in this dangerous game.


    With a purposeful stride, he approached Garfield, who was slumped in a position that clearly displeased him.


    "Please, no-" Garfield groaned, the irritation evident in his tone.


    *SIGH*


    Garfield heaved out a sigh, being carried in a manner that didn''t please him as Ricky turned to Lilith and gestured.


    "Now, lead the way, Lilith." Ricky then stepped on a rock, striking a pose as he pointed forward with a confident grin.


    "Let''s go kick Dracula''s ass."

 Chapter 101: Chapter 99: Assault On Dracula

    Chapter 101: Chapter 99: Assault On Dracula


    ?


    "Are you sure this is the way-" Ricky began, his skepticism evident as he peered into the dimly lit tunnel that stretched before them.


    "I''ve lived here for two hundred years; I''m positive I know the way." Lilith shot back, her tone laced with sarcasm as Ricky raised his hands in a gesture of surrender, a wry smile creeping onto his face.


    They stood in the heart of the underground tunnels, a network of passageways forged by rebels during the civil war that had plunged Transylvania into the shadows of Dracula''s oppressive rule three decades ago.


    The walls were damp, the air thick with the scent of earth and the whispers of history. What struck Ricky was not just the sheer scale of the tunnels but the secrets they held.


    Lilith had skillfully concealed her involvement with the rebels, as well as the existence of these vast underground passages.


    They were a lifeline for those who resisted Dracula''s tyranny, a sanctuary where hopes and plans were whispered in the darkness.


    "We''re almost at Dracula''s castle and then-"


    "Wait." Ricky suddenly called out, halting in his tracks as the others followed suit, Lilith turning around with an exasperated expression.


    "What?" she asked, irritation lacing her voice as Ricky scratched his head, contemplating his next words.


    "Wouldn''t it be better to stage a frontal assault rather than sneak into the castle?" Ricky''s suggestion hung in the air, met with a chorus of confused expressions, particularly from Rachael, whose brows furrowed in disbelief.


    "Trust me, Black Knight, it would be easier to attack him directly-" Lilith started, but Ricky''s uncharacteristic idea had already planted a seed of doubt in her mind.


    "I can''t believe I''m saying this, but he''s right." Rachael almost blurted out, the words tumbling forward, leaving both Ricky and Lilith momentarily stunned.


    "Really?" Ricky''s surprise mirrored the incredulity in Rachael''s eyes as he had half-expected her to shoot down the notion, but she nodded firmly.


    "Yes, it would be better to mount a full-frontal assault. It could lure out most of Dracula''s forces, giving us a chance to engage with minimal interference when we face him directly." Rachael sighed, rubbing her forehead at actually agreeing with Ricky for once.


    "Once we draw them out, the minions will be too preoccupied to aid in the real battle." Rachael gave her opinion on the matter, perfectly explaining Ricky''s intentions.


    Lilith, who had been listening quietly, regarded Rachael with narrowed eyes, weighing the plan''s merits.


    After a moment, she nodded, her expression shifting from annoyance to cautious agreement. "If that''s the case, then follow this tunnel. It leads directly to the front of Dracula''s castle." Lilith pointed her black nails in a specific direction, the group exchanged glances, a sense of determination beginning to take root.


    They moved down the dark passageway, the walls closing in around them as Lilith lingered at the rear, watching them depart as her mind swirled with unspoken thoughts as she ventured down her own path.


    "Let us see if this gamble pans out."


    They made their way down the dim tunnel, the air thick with anticipation, until they finally reached the exit.


    Asterion stepped forward and easily bulldozed through the crumbling ceiling, clearing the way for the group.


    As he emerged into the open air, he hunched over for a moment, stretching his limbs as if shedding the confines of the underground.


    Ricky emerged last, his gaze locking onto the formidable castle that loomed before them. Its imposing structure had haunted his thoughts, each stone a reminder of the battle ahead.


    With purpose, he advanced, pulling out his necklace and clutching the enchanted flute tightly in his other hand.


    Ricky unleashed his magic signature, a brilliant surge of energy that crackled through the air, drawing Dracula''s attention.


    "DRACULA!" Ricky''s voice rang out, echoing across the courtyard.


    The impact of his declaration struck like a hammer; everyone behind him facepalmed in unison, the element of surprise evaporating in an instant.


    "Ricky, what are you doing-" Rachael hissed, exasperation creeping into her tone.


    "I want him to see his impending doom so it''s easier to rub it in his face later." Ricky retorted, undeterred.


    Ricky watched as Dracula strolled out onto his terrace, an unsettling calmness enveloping the vampire, though his eyes betrayed the simmering rage beneath the surface.


    "If it isn''t the Black Knight." Dracula drawled, his voice smooth yet menacing.


    "Have you come to surrender yourself and your core to me?" Dracula''s taunt dripped with


    disdain, each word laced with the threat of his overwhelming power.


    "No, I''ve come here to kick your ass!" Ricky shouted, the declaration resonating with determination.


    With a swift motion, he crushed the necklace in his hand, the magical vapors escaping like a silvery mist, cascading down to the ground like fallen stars.


    As the vapor spread, it swirled around him, amplifying his presence and wrapping him in a cloak of confidence.


    The tension thickened in the air, a palpable anticipation hanging between them as the showdown loomed.


    Dracula squinted at Ricky''s boisterous provocation, his demeanor shifting from amused to


    wary.


    A small portal flickered open beneath him, and before he could react, figures surged forth, filling the air with an aura of ancient magic.


    "So, you''ve colluded with the witches." Dracula mused, rubbing his chin in mock


    contemplation.


    As the witches and warlocks took to the sky, their presence was overwhelming.


    Each mage wielded a grimoire, the ancient tomes pulsing with arcane energy, swirling spells


    ready to be unleashed.


    They formed a tapestry of magic in the air, dark clouds swirling ominously around them, establishing dominion over the battlefield.


    Chores, riding on the back of an elder''s broom, held various potions in his hands, his face set in fierce determination.


    This was a defining moment for him; after months of tireless study and practice, he was eager to prove that his hard work hadn''t been in vain.


    "Hello, Dracula." Agatha called out, her voice sweet but laced with an underlying threat.


    She waved casually at the vampire lord, her eyes sparkling with mischief.


    But Dracula''s eyes narrowed as he assessed her; he understood that she would be a problem, though perhaps not as significant as the others surrounding Ricky.


    "Your little parade of misfits may be amusing." Dracula replied, his tone dripping with condescension.


    "But that is all this is, you''ll find that your magic pales in comparison to my power." Dracula raised his head, the air crackled with tension as he stood tall, his cape billowing like a dark storm cloud behind him.


    As the witches and warlocks positioned themselves, their chants began to rise, harmonizing into a haunting melody that filled the air.


    "Is this all you''ve managed to achieve in those three years? You must be joking-" Dracula sneered, his gaze locked onto Ricky, who stood defiantly with a flute in hand.


    But before the vampire could finish his taunt, his words faltered as a horrid, otherworldly tune erupted from the instrument.


    Disgusting green vapors billowed from the flute, trailing like a serpent before coalescing into


    multiple portals behind Ricky.


    *BAM*


    The stone railing beneath Dracula''s grip crumbled to dust as he crushed it in fury, enraged by the sudden appearance of the emerging figures.


    Dracula clenched fists shook violently, magic crackling around him, fury emanating from his


    very being as he issued a silent command to his army as shadows began to pour from the castle, drawn to the call of their master.


    "Oh, Dracula, it is good to see you." Verdelet''s voice crackled with delight, stepping through one of the swirling green portals, his eyes glinting with a manic light.


    Verdelet spread his arms wide in a mock embrace, a gesture brimming with arrogance as he


    joined Ricky''s side.


    "I''m glad you upheld your end." Verdelet said, giving Ricky a hearty pat on the shoulder as he turned to face the seething Dracula, a wicked grin plastered across his face.


    "Dracula." Veredelt continued, his voice dripping with malice.


    "I''ve been preparing my hordes for this moment. I hope you enjoy them to their fullest!"


    As he spoke, grotesque abominations began to claw their way out of the green portals, their forms twisted and unnatural, reminiscent of ghouls yet somehow far more horrifying. They shambled forward with an insatiable hunger, their eyes glimmering with a madness that rivaled Verdelet''s own.


    The scene before them was a grotesque display of chaos and terror as the hideous creatures emerged, a cacophony of shrieks and growls filled the air, drowning out any remnants of confidence Dracula had maintained.


    The vampire lord''s expression twisted into one of disbelief and fury, his plans for domination suddenly jeopardized by the very beings he had once dismissed.


    Dracula''s eyes widened as he watched hundreds upon thousands of seasoned ghouls pour


    forth from the green portals, their forms grotesque yet powerful, a testament to Verdelet''s


    twisted artistry.


    Dracula realized that if he didn''t unleash his entire army, his castle and its inhabitants would be wiped out in a matter of moments.


    The tension in the air was palpable as both armies, Verdelet''s grotesque creations and Dracula''s legion of vampires and newly turned ghouls, stood poised for battle, each side a sea


    of hungry eyes and snarling mouths.


    Silence slowly enveloped the scene, a heavy blanket of anticipation settling over the battlefield, broken only by the distant rustle of wings as witches and warlocks filled the sky above, their magic crackling in the air.


    Ricky stood at the forefront, a sleazy smile stretched across his face, reveling in the chaos


    unfolding before him.


    The ground beneath him was almost entirely covered by the writhing mass of ghouls, each one a minion ready to unleash havoc.


    Across the battlefield, Dracula glared back at him, their eyes locking in a furious stare that


    transcended words.


    Hatred poured from both of them like venom, the culmination of pain, loss, and suffering


    intricately woven into their shared history.


    Each had endured countless tribulations that had left deep scars, losses that haunted them


    and shaped their very beings.


    The air crackled with tension, each combatant keenly aware that the outcome of this clash would determine not just their survival, but their futures as well.


    Only one of them could emerge victorious from this brutal confrontation. They both knew it: today would decide who would move forward and who would be left


    behind, lost to oblivion.


    "ATTACK!" The command echoed across the battlefield as both Ricky and Dracula shouted in unison, their voices like thunderclaps signaling the chaos to come.


    Yet, for a moment, both armies surged forward while the commanders stood completely still.


    Ricky, planted firmly in place, felt the chaos swirl around him as the hordes clashed all around


    him.


    He remained a solitary figure amid the tide of warriors, the noise of battle roaring in his ears like a distant storm.


    The ground trembled beneath him, each footfall of the advancing ghouls and vampires sending vibrations up through his legs, but his eyes still gazed at Dracula with that confident


    smirk.


    Dracula remained poised, his hand raised above him, aware of the witches'' cunning plan unfolding around him.


    With a sudden, decisive motion, he clenched his fist, a gesture that summoned a dark energy


    around him.


    Though it was perpetually cloudy in his domain, he knew that above those thick layers of gloom lay the sun, a force he could not allow to interfere with his schemes.


    ''I must stall until nightfall.'' Dracula thought grimly, calculating the stakes.


    ''I cannot afford any mistakes.'' Dracula thought, gazing at his barrier, a shimmering shield of


    dark magic, would hold until then, but he knew he would have to sacrifice his cannon fodder, unleashing them against Verdelet''s hordes to buy precious time.


    "FOR NEW SALEM, FOR A NEW PEACE!" Agatha roared, her voice piercing the air and igniting


    the spirits of the witches and warlocks around her.


    In an instant, they began to move with a fluid grace akin to a tornado, their combined magic weaving a powerful tapestry of energy that curled around Dracula''s castle. Chores, brimming with determination, held his contraptions aloft as he rallied his squad.


    "ALCHEMY SQUAD, READY THE NIGHTFIRE!" Chores bellowed, gesturing to the members of his team, who sprang into action.


    They produced multiple flasks filled with a vibrant orange liquid, dark strands of void black pulsing within, each one a deadly concoction designed to turn the tide of battle.


    "DO NOT LET THEM GET CLOSE, KILL THEM ALL!" Dracula commanded his high-ranking


    vampires, his voice laced with urgency.


    Their magic pulsed in response, an ominous glow radiating from their forms as they prepared to defend their master against the impending onslaught. "NOW!" Chores yelled, hurling his flasks at the oncoming wave of vampiric magic.


    The air crackled with energy as the spells, drenched in a sinister red aura, surged forward,


    intent on annihilating everything in their path.


    But as they met the flasks, an explosive reaction sent shockwaves through the air, igniting the orange liquid in a hellish blaze.


    The flames erupted, swirling into a grotesque display of fiery orange, streaked with ominous


    black tendrils that rippled like shadows.


    Dracula''s eyes narrowed, realization dawning too late as the black fire engulfed the spells'' trajectory, racing back toward his vampiric minions with a relentless hunger. "RELEASE YOUR SPELLS, DO IT!" Dracula commanded, his voice a desperate roar as he sensed


    the tide turning against him.


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" The shrill wail echoed as the flames engulfed the middle- class vampires, who struggled to react in time.


    They were caught in a devastating trap; unable to counteract the oncoming doom, the inferno


    consumed them whole.


    The black fire fed on the very essence of their undead magic, burning brighter and hotter with each unfortunate soul it claimed.


    Every attempt to subdue the flames, every spell cast in panic, only fueled the blaze further as


    the chaotic energy of their desperate magic twisted and expanded, creating a fiery tempest that left nothing but ash in its wake.


    Panic rippled through the ranks of Dracula''s forces as they witnessed their comrades being


    devoured by the ravenous flames.


    The middle-class vampires became mere fodder, their unholy existence extinguished in an instant, and their cries of agony were swallowed by the roar of fire. "ATTACK THE SHIELDS! USE CHORES'' SQUAD POTIONS AS COVER WHEN NEEDED!" Agatha


    ordered decisively, her grimoire flaring with a brilliant purple light that sent waves of


    magical energy rippling out across the battlefield.


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    The sound of spells detonating against Dracula''s barrier echoed through the air, a cacophony


    that signaled the ferocity of their assault.


    The once-impregnable shield that had protected him for centuries now trembled under the


    relentless onslaught of high-level spells, causing the very ground to shake beneath the feet of Dracula''s minions.


    Dracula''s eyes narrowed as he assessed the chaos around him as his army, once a formidable


    force, now found itself besieged by not just the relentless ghouls spawned by Verdelet but also the cunning tactics of the witches and warlocks, who had strategically outmaneuvered


    him.


    Each spell that struck his barrier sent shockwaves through his defenses, and even he hesitated


    to retaliate, fully aware that his every move was being scrutinized by an army eager to counter him at a moment''s notice.


    Desperation clawed at him as he glanced at his cannon fodder, only to witness Verdelet''s twisted creations mercilessly consuming them.


    The abominations, grotesque in their form and reeking of death, showed no sign of retreat.


    They were driven by a singular, horrifying purpose: to tear through the ranks of Dracula''s


    army with an unyielding ferocity without care for their well being. These mindless monstrosities, morphed into twisted reflections of their former selves, acted without regard for their own survival.


    They clawed and bit, ripping through Dracula''s minions with savage glee, their grotesque features twisting into a macabre semblance of joy as they wreaked havoc on the battlefield.


    Each piercing scream of the fallen only fueled their insatiable hunger, driving them to greater heights of madness.


    Ripping and tearing, the ghouls thrived amidst the chaos, their relentless assault striking fear into the hearts of Dracula''s sentient cannon fodder.


    With every horrific act of violence, they sowed discord and terror, turning once-loyal vampires against one another in a desperate attempt to escape the onslaught. The battlefield became a horrifying spectacle, a true testament to the destructive force of


    Verdelet''s wraith and the raw power of Agatha''s spells.


    "Consume the vials!" Dracula ordered, his voice a low, menacing growl that reverberated through the chaos. His nearby vampires hesitated, their eyes darting nervously to him, searching for any other


    resolve they so desperately needed to escape the looming fate that showed itself before


    them.


    But all they found was the fiery wraith flickering in Dracula''s gaze, an undeniable testament to the power he wielded.


    "Consume. Them. Now!" Dracula roared, the raw fury of his command slicing through the


    battlefield like a blade.


    The middle-ranking vampires exchanged fearful glances, uncertainty palpable in the air, but one look at their master''s furious countenance sent them scrambling for their vials. With trembling hands, they retrieved the small glass containers, their contents swirling with


    dark, malevolent energy.


    The tension was thick as they stared down at the potions, fear and anticipation intertwining.


    One by one, dozens of middle-class vampires lifted the vials to their lips, the dark liquid slipping down their throats.


    The effects were immediate and visceral as they fell to their knees, gasping and writhing as the potent elixir coursed through their veins, transforming them in an instant. Black veins pulsed visibly beneath their skin, snaking up their arms and necks, expanding


    ominously until they reached their eyes.


    The once-familiar irises were swallowed by an unholy red, glowing with a feral hunger that spoke of a deeper, darker power awakened within them.


    Dracula watched, satisfaction twisting his lips into a cruel smile as he beheld his newly


    empowered minions.


    They rose, still on their knees but now with an unsettling strength emanating from them.


    The transformation had made them more than just cannon fodder; they were now vessels of his wrath, imbued with a savage thirst for blood and destruction.


    *SPALT*


    Demonic wings burst forth from the backs of the newly empowered vampires, their forms


    cloaked in thick, dark fur that shimmered ominously in the dim light.


    They morphed into powerful bat-like creatures, grotesque and fierce, their eyes glinting with


    bloodlust.


    "Rid the skies of those flies!" Dracula commanded, his voice laced with urgency as he pointed


    toward Agatha and her coven.


    The middle-class vampires surged forward, propelled by their new forms, their wings


    propelling them into the fray like living missiles.


    "FALL BACK AND ASSESS-" Agatha shouted, but her orders were drowned out by the chaos.


    A wave of blood splattered against her, the thick, warm liquid splashing across her face as a


    nearby witch screamed in horror.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The sound of a nearby witches'' agony rang out, piercing through the din of battle as one of the monstrous creatures descended upon her, its claws rending flesh with merciless precision, tearing off one of her arms in a gruesome display.


    "BASTARDS-" Agatha hissed, fury igniting within her while trying to rush to her fellow witches aide, but it was too late.


    *SPLAT*


    In an attempt to save their comrade, another witch lunged forward, only to have her body torn


    in half by one of the ravenous creatures.


    Agatha''s focus shifted, her heart pounding as she faced the onslaught of these horrific


    abominations.


    "DO NOT BE AFRAID! WE CANNOT AFFORD IT; THERE IS ONLY FORWARD!" Agatha roared,


    her voice echoing like a war drum.


    A brilliant purple aura erupted around her, and her grimoire sprang open, unleashing one


    terrifying spell after another, pushing back the horde of horrific vampires. "ASTERION!" Ricky yelled, his voice cutting through the chaos so Dracula could hear him.


    "You ready?" Ricky turned toward the white minotaur by his side, determination etched into


    his features.


    "I suppose it is time to loosen up my bones." Asterion cracked his neck, the sound echoing ominously, and then hefted his massive axe onto his shoulder.


    *THUMP*


    Stomping his foot onto the ground, the very earth rippled at the force before he charged


    forward, his eyes igniting with a deep, crimson glow that matched the fury in his heart. Cannon fodder was thrown into the air as Asterion bulldozed through the ranks of Dracula''s minions, a force of nature amidst the carnage, knowing that the only solution to that maddening action was for these mere cannon fodder to part in fear before his relentless strength.


    racula''s


    owl deepened as he watch Asterion storm into the battlefield, recognizing formidable power of the creature he had underestimated.


    "Baron Blood."


    "Yes Master."


    In an instant, Baron Blood appeared at Dracula''s side, kneeling before his master with a look


    of urgency etched on his face as Dracula''s gaze remained fixed on the berserking minotaur,


    fury swirling within him.


    "Take every single one of the highest-ranking vampires and launch an all-out assault on that


    creature." Dracula commanded, his voice a low growl.


    "But Master-" Baron Blood started, but the words died on his lips. "NOW!" Dracula roared, unleashing his anger with a wave of dark energy that surged around


    him as Baron Blood vanished into thin air, immediately dispatching the order. Within moments, twelve of Dracula''s elite vampires materialized in the wake of Asterion''s charge, their presence casting an ominous shadow over the battlefield.


    They moved with precision, raining down a barrage of magical attacks meant to stop the minotaur in his tracks.


    *BOOM*


    Uncaring in the face of their attack and with a mighty swing of his axe, Asterion brought the


    weapon crashing down against the shimmering barrier, sending shockwaves rippling through


    it.


    *CRACK* A deep fissure formed in the barrier, eliciting gasps of shock from Dracula and his high-


    ranking vampires.


    The realization struck them all: they could not allow Asterion to remain unchallenged for a


    single moment longer.


    Gritting his teeth, Dracula stood on the terrace of his castle, his mind racing as he


    contemplated his next move.


    He turned to face the interior of his fortress, knowing that Ricky would be reveling in the


    chaos unfolding below as Ricky''s laughter echoed across the battlefield, a taunt that pricked


    at Dracula''s pride.


    "Ricky this is our chance-"


    "Are you still not going to tell me the plan?" Ricky suddenly interrupted her, hsi tone dead


    serious unlike his usual uncaring determination. "Ricky, if I tell you, then it might not work. Just trust me and go wild." Rachel urged, her voice steady yet laced with urgency as Ricky considered her words for a moment before shrugging. "Fine, let''s go." Ricky turned to Verdelet, who nodded in understanding, already prepared for


    the chaos that was about to unfold.


    Together, they made their way down into the depths of Dracula''s castle, descending the gothic staircase as the entire structure trembled under the weight of the ongoing battle


    above.


    As they reached the bottom, they halted before two imposing double doors, the air thick with anticipation.


    "Wait, hold on." Ricky suddenly summoned his key, the magical artifact glowing in his hand


    as he opened his storage space as Rachel scrunched her brows in confusion.


    "What are you-" Rachael began, but Ricky interrupted her. "No time to explain, let''s go." Ricky didn''t elaborate, retrieving the sun pendant, its golden


    surface glinting ominously in the dim light.


    "H-H-H-How-" Rachel''s eyes widened in recognition, her heart racing as she grasped the significance of what Ricky had just pulled from his storage.


    "Like I said, it''s a long story, I''ll probably explain later." Ricky waved her thoughts away,


    gazing forward at the looming front.


    Rachael nodded resolutely, steeling herself for what was to come and together, they pushed


    open the heavy double doors, revealing the sight that awaited them. Dracula sat upon his broken throne, his expression a mix of fury and disbelief as he regarded


    the two intruders.


    The throne room was dimly lit, the flickering torches casting long shadows that danced along


    the walls, highlighting the remnants of his former power.


    "For three years." Dracula''s head hung low in anger, turning it upwards to the smirking iviosn


    fo Ricky.


    "For three years I have searched, waited, for the day I get to rip out your core and make you


    suffer all the torment you put me through!" Dracula roared, his voice echoing off the stone walls, a deep resonance filled with unbridled rage as Ricky smirked, feigning surprise as he


    placed a hand over his chest.


    "Ah, you''ve been thinking about me for three years?" Ricky cocked an eyebrow, pretending to


    be touched by the admission, which only served to make the veins in Dracula''s eyes pulse a


    fiery red.


    "This is really embarrassing." Ricky continued, his tone dripping with mock sincerity. "Because I mean, I haven''t really thought about you at all in these last two-sorry, I mean


    three years." Ricky relished the look of fury that flashed across Dracula''s face, knowing how


    much it irritated the ancient vampire.


    "Honestly, I''ve been relaxing with my FULLY intact core, lounging around while using magic


    from my FULLY intact core-"


    "ENOUGH!" Dracula shouted, the sheer force of his voice rattling the dust from the ceiling as


    the doors slammed shut behind him as he scowled, his gaze locking onto Ricky, seething with


    anger.


    His attire remained unchanged, but now he carried a plain-faced feline at his side and a pendant dangling from his neck, its glow pulsating softly as Ricky flashed a grin, relishing the


    moment.


    "I see you''ve brought me a gift?" Dracula mused, recognizing the pendant, his greedy eyes


    coveting it.


    "Yeah, I thought you should see it at least once since I did pry it free from the ashes of your


    son." Ricky retorted, his gaze steady as he met Dracula''s simmering anger as the mention of


    his son hung in the air like a heavy fog, intensifying the tension.


    "You dare!" Dracula''s breath hitched, his composure cracking under the weight of Ricky''s


    taunt.


    In an instant, red energy began to pulse around him, matching the rhythm of his furious


    heartbeat.


    Ricky slowly removed his helmet, casting it aside with a flourish as the clatter echoed ominously in the silence, and both Rachael and Dracula stood momentarily stunned. Ricky''s face was unprotected, his features illuminated by the pendant''s glow, revealing a


    fierce determination and a hint of madness in his eyes.


    "What are you doing-" Rachael asked from the side, her voice laced with concern, but Ricky


    simply fixed his gaze forward, shrugging off any notion of retreat. Ricky had long made up his mind; there would be no room for excuses, no thoughts of escape.


    In that moment, he resolved to ensure victory, no matter the cost as he was ready to face


    whatever darkness lay ahead, prepared to confront the consequences of his boldness. "My name is Ricky Luciano, and I f*cking ripped your son''s head off!" Ricky declared, his


    voice echoing through the chamber like a battle cry.


    The words hung in the air, charged with defiance as Dracula''s grip tightened on the handles of


    his throne, the wood creaking under the pressure as rage boiled within him.


    *BOOM*


    Dracula''s bloodthirst erupted, a palpable wave of rage radiating from him as he fixed his


    furious gaze on Ricky as the air around them crackled with tension, filled with the promise of


    violence.


    "You killed my son, killed my minions, came to my castle, AND DARE TO ACT SO ARROGANT


    IN FRONT OF ME!" Dracula rose from his throne, a towering figure shrouded in darkness, his


    eyes glowing with an intense killing intent.


    "FOR WHAT REASON COULD POSSIBLY FATHOM BEING SO IDIOTIC!" Dracula roared,


    throwing his cloak aside, revealing the full extent of his monstrous power, poised to end Ricky''s life in a heartbeat.


    "YOU KILLED HENRY!" Ricky shot back, his voice cutting through the tension, frustration


    etched across his face as Dracula shook his head, momentarily bewildered.


    "Who is Henry-the bird?" Dracula asked, genuinely taken aback, disbelief flickering in his


    eyes.


    "Yeah, asshole! You killed my bird, and now I''m going to kick your ass!"


    Author''s Note: Been procrasting hard recently, but I''ll be checking comments either later today or maybe tommorrow. Also, I''m considering opening up my Patreon either today or tomorrow, but I''ll make an official announcement if that happens. For those concerned, just relax, the fic will continue to release as usual, and free readers won''t miss out on anything nor


    be locked out of any chapters behind a paywall. Patreon will just offer access to advanced


    chapters for those interested.

 Chapter 102 - 100: Ricky vs. Dracula, fight!

    Chapter 102: Chapter 100: Ricky vs. Dracula, fight!


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Dracula''s laughter echoed through the chamber, a sound tinged with mockery.


    It was clear he found amusement in the confrontation, though the way he gazed at Ricky suggested more bitterness than joy.


    "I''m going to enjoy this, enjoy ripping you apart Ricky Luciano, and whoever you are!" Dracula proclaimed, throwing any useless bindings aside.


    It was then did he reveal the grotesque faces etched across his body once more, all contorted in silent screams, trying desperately to escape the confines of his skin.


    "I am Rachael Van Helsing, granddaughter of Abraham, and the one to finally avenge the Van Helsing name-" Rachael declared, her voice strong and steady, filled with purpose.


    "OH ABRAHAM! OF COURSE, YOUR LINE WOULD STILL BE ALIVE, GOOD, GOOD!" Dracula interrupted, a manic grin spreading across his features as he cracked his neck.


    "I am so glad since it wouldn''t be fun if I didn''t unveil this form to a Van Helsing." Dracula laughter turned maniacal, filling the room with an eerie resonance.


    Ricky frowned, feeling the shift in the atmosphere as it was a dark omen as the air grew heavy with dread.


    Then, before their eyes, black magic began to swirl around the myriad faces on Dracula''s body, a chaotic dance of dark energy that wrapped around him like a shroud.


    "Watch closely, little Van Helsing, for you will witness the true power of what your bloodline could never hope to master!" Dracula bellowed, his voice booming as the magic intensified, the faces merging and twisting, feeding into the dark ritual.


    The grotesque display was a warning of the monstrous transformation that was about to unfold as the faces writhed under his skin.


    As the magic enveloped him, Dracula''s form began to shift dramatically as his body brutally contorted and expanded, dark tendrils of energy sprouting forth, amplifying his already fearsome presence.


    Dracula''s eyes burned with an otherworldly glow, radiating an aura of malevolence that chilled the very air around them.


    "N-No," Rachael breathed, a chill racing down her spine as she sensed the familiar signature of magic swirling around Dracula as the air thickened with dread as she watched in horror.


    Dracula''s body began to contort grotesquely; void black fur erupted from his pale skin, giving him a monstrous, otherworldly appearance.


    His face twisted into a horrifying amalgamation of wolf and bat, fangs glistening with malice.


    Claws tore forth from his fingertips, glimmering ominously in the dim light of the chamber.


    With a guttural growl, Dracula shed his own skin in one fluid motion, the remnants falling away like shadows into the abyss.


    Dracula threw his arms wide, exposing his transformed body to the world, a display of raw, chaotic power.


    "FEAST YOUR EYES ON THE NEW BEGINNING, TRUE POWER!" Dracula roared, his voice reverberating through the chamber, echoing with the intensity of ages.


    The pale, feral face he now wore was a mask of pure menace, filled with an insatiable hunger for vengeance.


    "Racheal, snap out of it-"


    "It''s impossible, that''s our unique magic gifted to us by god-"


    "It''s impossible! That''s our unique magic gifted to us by God¡ª" Rachael stammered, her eyes wide with disbelief.


    "NOT ANYMORE!" Dracula cackled, his voice resonating with a newfound power.


    "I''VE INJECTED THE SOULS OF YOUR ANCESTORS INTO MY BODY! NOW, I AM FREE FROM ANY WEAKNESS OF THE VAN HELSING LINE!" Dracula gestured menacingly at Ricky, his expression twisted with malice.


    "THEN, ONCE I KILL YOU BOTH, I''LL TAKE THE SUN PENDANT AND WREAK HAVOC ON THE WORLD! HUMANITY, HYDRA; THEY WILL ALL COWER IN FEAR OF MY POWER AS I BUILD A THRONE OF SKULLS OUT OF ALL WHO OPPOSE ME!" Dracula manically laughed out, envisioning the carnage he would cause and the throne of bodies he would build.


    In these three years, Dracula hadn''t simply stood idly by; he had honed his dark magic, syncing it with the very essence of his being.


    Every incantation, every sacrifice had added to his power, turning him into something more than a mere vampire, he had become a force of nature, a harbinger of death and chaos.


    Ricky felt the weight of this transformation pressing down on him as that one-fifth advantage he had thought he possessed was now rendered almost meaningless against the monstrous entity before him.


    Ricky''s heart raced as he instinctively erected numerous mental walls, trying to protect his thoughts from the dark energy radiating from Dracula.


    *WHOOSH*


    The air rippled and twisted around Ricky as he summoned a torrent of power, a vibrant green aura exploding from him like a tsunami, illuminating the dim chamber with an otherworldly glow.


    His eyes flared, shimmering in an even lighter shade of green that seemed to pulse with energy, a beacon of his determination and fury.


    He focused, planting mental walls with fierce intent, constructing a labyrinth of defenses aimed directly at Dracula.


    Each wall shimmered with a translucent sheen, vibrating with the energy that swirled within Ricky.


    The atmosphere around Dracula shifted as a sudden low-pitched energy sound thrummed, a warning of the impending conflict.


    Then, with a crackle of energy, a symphony of mental-projected cannons manifested, swirling around them like sentinels of wrath.


    Their barrels pulsed with condensed mental energy, a promise of destruction that hung heavy in the air.


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    With each explosive shot, the air fractured as a triad of blasts spiraled toward Dracula as he rushed forward with an unnatural speed, a blur that defied comprehension.


    Every step he took was a calculated assault, each movement leaving behind a violent explosion that sent shockwaves through the chamber.


    The walls Ricky had erected transformed into mere springboards for Dracula''s relentless advance, the force of his speed creating tremors that rattled the very stone.


    Ricky pupils bounced all around his eyes, trying to process the speed of the oncoming threat, his mind racing to keep up with the chaos.


    Just as he thought he had a moment to breathe, Dracula leaped backwards, dodging the blasts with an elegance that seemed almost balletic as Ricky''s eyes flared with determination as he sensed the moment shift.


    *BOOOOOOOM*


    The explosion that followed was cataclysmic, a huge eruption of green fire flared in the enclosed space, engulfing the room in a brilliant conflagration.


    The force of it pushed back against the walls, sending debris flying and the air thick with the smell of scorched earth as Ricky could feel the heat wash over him, invigorating yet terrifying in its intensity.


    But even so, he collapsed his hands, pouring every ounce of focus into shaping the flames, compressing them into a concentrated ball of raw power.


    The flames twisted and danced at his command, coiling around his fingertips like living serpents, each flicker illuminating the fierce determination in his eyes.


    The energy surged within him, threatening to spill over as he prepared for the next phase of the battle.


    *BOOOM*


    The throne room erupted in chaos, the air igniting in a brilliant explosion as Ricky unleashed the concentrated flames with a roar of defiance.


    The fiery inferno lanced through the space, obliterating his own metal barrier and sending shards of twisted metal flying in every direction


    Flames licked at the walls, roaring like a wild beast as they consumed the darkness that cloaked the room.


    Smoke filled the air, swirling around Ricky as he stood in the center of the devastation, panting heavily.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    Ricky fought to regain his composure, the remnants of his energy simmering around him, casting flickering shadows on the scorched floor.


    He extended his hand, palm facing forward, and took a deep breath, focusing on the warmth still radiating from the flames.


    "Ah~"


    A soft, almost relieved hum escaped his lips as the smoke began to clear, revealing a sight that sent shivers down Rachael''s spine.


    There, amidst the debris, lay Dracula, his once-majestic figure marred and burnt, parts of his skull visible beneath charred flesh and yet, instead of despair or anger, Dracula regarded Ricky with a chilling calm.


    "How long has it been since I''ve felt pain?" he mused aloud, his voice dripping with dark amusement.


    Dracula''s eyes glinted with something almost akin to fascination as his form began to heal before Ricky''s very eyes.


    Flesh and sinew reformed, knitting together in a grotesque dance of regeneration, as if he were a living nightmare refusing to die.


    "Oh, I remember now." Dracula''s voice boomed through the throne room, dripping with malicious delight.


    As Ricky''s danger sense flared, a primal instinct screaming at him to move, he scanned the area, but it was too late.


    In an instant, Dracula vanished from sight, his form dissolving into the shadows that cloaked the room.


    Ricky barely had time to react before a tremendous force slammed into him as Dracula reappeared, the power of his magic coursing through his very veins, amplifying his strength to terrifying levels.


    "WHEN YOU SUMMONED THAT FOUL CREATURE!" Dracula screeched, the echo of his rage reverberating off the stone walls.


    The punch landed squarely against Ricky''s abdomen, the impact reverberating through his very bones.


    Pain exploded like fireworks in his gut, knocking the breath from his lungs as he staggered back, his feet scraping against the cold, hard floor.


    *BOOOOM*


    The throne room shuddered as Dracula''s punch landed with the force of a meteor, sending a shockwave that rippled through the air like a violent storm.


    Ricky braced himself, feeling every muscle in his body strain under the weight of the impact, his bones rattling from the sheer power unleashed by the vampire lord.


    Ricky''s feet dug into the stone floor, but he stood firm against the onslaught, feeling the magic of Dracula''s enhanced strength coursing through the air like electricity.


    A grimace twisted Ricky''s face as he channeled his own energy to stabilize himself, his green aura flaring brightly to push back against the pain radiating through him.


    However, just as Dracula launched his powerful fist even further, his eyes suddenly darted to the side, sensing an impending shift as he lunged back with incredible speed, but the momentary distraction was enough.


    *BOOM*


    Ricky''s body slammed into the stone wall behind him, the impact sending a shockwave of dust and debris cascading through the air.


    Ricky coughed violently, each hack tearing through his throat like shards of glass, but he managed to hold Garfield close, absorbing some of the brutal force.


    *COUGH*


    *COUGH*


    Blood splattered from his mouth and nose, painting the ground beneath him a deep crimson as his healing factor fought to repair the damage to his battered internal organs.


    But rather than succumb to the agony, Ricky''s lips curled into a grin, a wild spark igniting in his eyes.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky laughed, the sound echoing off the stone walls as he sat amidst the wreckage, blood dripping from the corners of his mouth like war paint.


    "You little maggot," Dracula hissed, his voice dripping with venom as he touched his chest, where a jagged gnash had formed, an injury that refused to heal, the result of Ricky''s holy aura infused into the wound. It was a mark of his defiance, a symbol of the battle raging within.


    Despite the overwhelming pain, Ricky reveled in the moment, understanding that this clash wasn''t merely about brute strength.


    When Dracula had attacked, Ricky had realized he wasn''t fast enough to block the blow entirely, but he had wanted it that way.


    That cut on Dracula''s chest showed that even in that form, even if he was still more powerful than Dracula, he was vulnerable.


    Ricky''s laughter soared, echoing with a fervor that filled the room with palpable energy as it was a declaration of his resilience, a reminder that even in the face of despair, he could still rise.


    "Does it sting?" Ricky asked in a mocking tone, wiping his mouth while slowly standing up.


    "Not even a little," Dracula sneered and without a moment''s hesitation, he ripped off a chunk of his own flesh, the grotesque sight only fueling his power as he tossed it aside like discarded refuse.


    The flesh plopped on the ground while the self dug cavern on his chest slowly rebuilt itself, fully forming back.


    "But I will give you credit. I was aiming to steal the pendant, but it''s of no matter." Dracula continued, his expression shifting from casual amusement to frustration as he clenched his fist, only to realize the pendant was still absent.


    The frown that crossed his face hinted at a growing impatience, yet he knew he would claim it eventually.


    "Are you shocked? Surprised even?" Dracula taunted towards Ricky, his voice dripping with mockery, knowing Ricky didn''t expect his strength even if he tried to hide it.


    "I''ve poured all my strength into my physical form rather than my magic this time." Dracula''s words were a challenge, meant to undermine Ricky''s ability to counter magic, but before Ricky could respond, Dracula''s head snapped to the side.


    "YOU BASTARD!" Rachael yelled, launching herself forward with ferocity.


    But with a swift and effortless motion, Dracula bent sideways, avoiding her strike before unleashing a brutal kick into her side.


    "Argh!" Rachael gasped, barely managing to raise her forearm in defense.


    The impact shattered bone and sent her sprawling backward, the force of the blow echoing through the throne room. Dracula chuckled darkly at her expense, relishing the power he held.


    "I suppose I can skin you alive first and have my fun with the fabled Black Knight for dessert." Dracula taunted, his footsteps leisurely as he strolled towards Rachael, each step filled with menacing confidence.


    "You two have yet to understand that you are mere specks of sand on my road to domination," Dracula continued, his voice oozing with arrogance, even after facing Ricky''s power.


    "But tell me, why make this so difficult for yourselves?" Dracula sighed, dodging one of Rachael''s strikes then sending a fist into her abdomen.


    Meanwhile, Alexander watched in horror, the realization dawning on him that they were outmatched.


    ''Ricky, his physical aspect has become too strong for our plans, we must change our approach.'' Alexander urged in their mental communication, fear gripping his heart as the once-familiar distance tactics seemed futile against this new, formidable incarnation of Dracula.


    *Cough*


    Ricky doubled over, expelling a mouthful of blood onto the floor, the metallic taste mingling with the bitterness of defeat.


    ''Any ideas? Because I didn''t expect him to hit that hard. I''m actually in a lot of pain right now.'' Ricky thought, struggling to catch his breath as he leaned against the crumbling wall.


    Alexander, glancing at the dazed Garfield, nodded with grim determination, watching the cat''s eyes spin from just one attack.


    ''Yes, I do, but it involves both hands.'' Alexander''s gaze shifted back to Ricky, who quickly grasped the plan.


    Seizing the moment while Dracula was distracted, he accessed his storage space and hurled Garfield inside, along with the pendant, sealing them away.


    ''Now what?'' Ricky asked, forcing himself upright despite the pain that lanced through his body.


    His grimoire floated beside him, shimmering with untapped power, while he clutched the ebony blade tightly in both hands, its weight both reassuring and heavy.


    ''I need time to assess him more.'' Alexander replied, his eyes narrowing as they locked onto Dracula, pupils flaring with intensity.


    ''Attack him, and I''ll assist you along the way, we must wear him down.'' Alexander''s voice was steady, a stark contrast to the chaos that surrounded them.


    *BAM*


    Dracula''s fist crashed into a nearby pillar with a deafening crash, sending shards of stone flying.


    Rachael barely managed to duck in time, her heart racing as she glanced back at Dracula, who reveled in her confusion, a wicked grin spreading across his face, but as he turned back to face Ricky, the air shifted around him.


    Without warning, a green portal burst open behind Dracula and out of it, the ebony blade hurtled forward at breakneck speed.


    Dracula''s instincts kicked in just in time, and he narrowly dodged the deadly projectile, the blade whistling past him.


    Seizing the opportunity, Ricky lunged into the air, his hands outstretched and with a swift movement, the blade boomeranged back into his grip, and he slashed downwards with ferocity.


    *CLANG*


    The sound of metal on metal rang out as Dracula swiftly parried the blade with his claws, his agility allowing him to slip past its razor edge and with a flick of his leg, he countered, kicking outwards at Ricky.


    *DINK*


    "Damn mutant," Dracula hissed, frustration lacing his voice as his attack was momentarily halted by a mental barrier as Ricky swung his body, shifting the blade to the side, regaining his stance.


    In a fluid motion, Dracula jumped, his clawed hand brushing against the body of the blade once more, using it as leverage to springboard into the air.


    Dracula soared above Ricky, eyes glinting with malice as he prepared to launch a devastating aerial attack.


    "F*cking idiot," Ricky cackled, the words bursting forth with a manic energy as he dropped the blade.


    With a swift motion, he held out his hands, his solar flare bow materializing from his inventory before an arrow slowly swirled with a terrifying bright energy.


    *WHOOSH*


    An arrow flew out in the next second, hurling towards Draucla who was semeigly left wide open only for him to twist his body.


    *BOOM*


    The arrow exploded on impact, a blinding flash of light and sound that temporarily engulfed the room in chaos.


    Yet, amid the smoke, Dracula''s figure emerged, unfazed as he unleashed a kick that sent a wave of force rippling through the air, creating a cloud of dust that hung ominously before parting to reveal Ricky spiraling through the haze.


    With the wings of Daedalus flapping behind him, Ricky found himself propelled toward Dracula, who was starting to feel the strain of battling a mere human.


    Clenching the ebony blade with determination, Ricky slashed downward, but Dracula stood his ground, a defiant grin spreading across his face.


    *DINK*


    Dracula shot a punch at Ricky only for a barrier to materialize, absorbing the impact, but it wasn''t enough.


    Dracula exploded forward, his body surging with a primal energy that belied his monstrous form.


    A maddening grin pierced his face as the vampire let the blade slice into him, countless times, feeling the bite of metal against his skin, while his claws tore into the mental projection with savage ferocity.


    Ricky, taken aback but unyielding, swung the blade again and once again, the tip of the weapon grazed Dracula''s back, skinning the surface and drawing a thin line of crimson.


    But instead of recoiling, Dracula leaned into the pain, his smile only widening, a maniacal gleam lighting his eyes as he reveled in the thrill of battle.


    As Ricky hurtled downward, gravity turning him into a living missile, Dracula merely stood there with his arms wide open, mocking him with a grin that dared him to strike.


    But Ricky''s eyes burned with determination and at the last second, he twisted into a controlled somersault, his body spinning in the air as he brought his blade slashing down with vicious intent.


    Each strike landed with a sickening tear as black blood erupted from Dracula''s body in brutal streaks, painting the air in crimson arcs.


    Deep gashes opened across the vampire''s chest, shoulders, and arms, dark blood streaming from them, trailing down his torso and staining the floor below.


    Despite his immense power, each of Dracula''s counters was met with a relentless mental barrier, a wall he could feel but not penetrate.


    *BOOM*


    The two warriors smashed into the ground, the impact shattering stone and sending jagged pieces of debris flying outward like shrapnel.


    The floor beneath them cracked, deep fissures racing outward in all directions as their bodies ground into it, splattering it with fresh blood.


    Then, the dust split apart as both figures shot away from the scene of the brutal onslaught, leaving only a haze of chaos in their wake.


    One one side, Dracula stood in the hazy air, his body a nightmarish spectacle of torn flesh and exposed muscle.


    His skin hung in ragged strips, raw sinew gleaming beneath, and blood dripped in dark rivulets down his battered form.


    Yet, even through the agony, he grinned, a ghastly, blood-soaked smile that only seemed to grow wider as he set his eyes on Ricky.


    *Cough*


    *Cough*


    *Cough*


    On the other side of the destruction, Ricky held his ground, sword raised in a rigid stance.


    But through that demeanor, his face was pale, a sheen of sweat clinging to his brow, and his bloodshot eyes burned with an unyielding focus.


    Though his body bore no immediate visible wounds, the toll was evident as blood trickled from his nose and ears, a stark indicator of the intense mental strain he''d endured.


    His breaths came in short, harsh gasps, and every cough brought more blood to his lips, a dark stain against his mouth.


    Dracula''s gaze remained locked on him, the bloodthirsty gleam in his eyes only intensifying as he directed his efforts inward, pouring his efforts into shattering Ricky''s mental barriers.


    With every ounce of raw force he could summon, he clawed and tore at the invisible walls that protected Ricky''s vulnerable human body, paying no heed to the wounds that deepened with each strike, flesh stripping away from bone.


    Dracula could feel himself growing weaker, his body shredded, but he savored the pain, relishing in it, knowing it was the price for getting closer to Ricky''s vulnerability.


    The price was high, each rip and tear of his own body a step closer to breaking Ricky''s mind wide open.


    Dracula knew the risks, knew that at any moment Ricky''s blade could flash through his defenses.


    But he embraced the suffering with that twisted, ravenous smile, certain that the damage he inflicted within was worth every agonizing wound he bore on the outside.


    "One hundred and seventy-two." Dracula lifted his head, eyes narrowing into cruel crescents as he gestured down at his mutilated form.


    *Clap*


    *Clap*


    *Clap*.


    Dracula began to applaud slowly, the sound echoing through the desecrated hall like a death knell.


    "One hundred and seventy-two wounds." Dracula remarked, his voice dripping with both admiration and mockery.


    "It is Impressive."


    Ricky''s knees buckled slightly, the weight of Dracula''s gaze pressing down on him.


    Blood trickled down his face, and his body trembled from the intense strain as every ounce of training, every brutal hour of discipline, had gone into delivering those cuts, those slashes.


    He''d given it his all, carving into Dracula with a precision born of relentless dedication.


    But Dracula only smiled wider, opening his arms in a mock embrace, savoring Ricky''s struggle.


    "And yet." Dracula''s voice deepened, dripping with twisted satisfaction.


    "They pale in comparison to the six hundred and forty-two mental barriers I''ve shattered." Dracula let out a towering laughter, bellowing out after counting each and every one.


    Dracula tilted his head, watching Ricky with a dark sense of appreciation as he knew the effort it took to wield such skill, to create those defenses, and he acknowledged Ricky''s strength with a perverse respect.


    Dracula watched Ricky''s chest heave, wondering if reality was sinking in, wondering if his vision was blurring with both exhaustion and fury.


    Wondering if Ricky was pondering those three grueling years of relentless, all-consuming training, pushing his body to the breaking point, testing the limits of his will.


    Wondering if he''d believed, truly believed, that every painstaking step had prepared him for this moment.


    But Dracula''s laughter sliced through him like a dagger, cold and mocking at his own thoughts.


    For Dracula, seven hundred years of blood-soaked battles, brutal conquests, and endless self-honing had built him into something beyond mere human comprehension.


    Every century had forged him harder, honed his instincts sharper, and shaped him into an unstoppable force.


    He took in Ricky''s tattered, battered form, and a flicker of amusement glinted in his ancient eyes.


    "For every slash you gave me," Dracula continued, his tone sinister and taunting.


    "I destroyed four of your precious defenses, each one more desperate than the last. And now," Dracula added with a malevolent glint in his eye, gesturing towards him.


    "You stand before me, weakened, bare, and just as I intended-"


    "It only took me three years to do all of that, seems to me that you''re the pathetic one here?" Ricky laughed out a heaping of blood, interrupting Dracula who''s smile twitched.


    "I mean just three years ago you threw me around like a ragdoll but now, well, I''m kind of disappointed, Dracula." Ricky raised his own gaze into crescent moons, gazing upon Dracula with a mocking light.


    "I thought you would destroy more."


    Then, green spotlights ignited around Dracula, casting him in an eerie, theatrical glow as if he stood at the center of a twisted stage.


    The unearthly lights danced over his battered form, illuminating the raw, torn flesh and oozing wounds that Ricky''s strikes had left behind.


    Every inch of his body radiated with a horrifying blend of power and gore, his injuries almost pulsing in time with the energy crackling around him.


    In that spectral glow, mental projections began to shimmer into existence, brimming with raw mental energy, flickering like flames.


    Dracula''s figure seemed to absorb the spotlight''s power, every projection a twisted reflection of Ricky''s shattered defenses, his fractured psyche almost tangible in the haze surrounding them.


    The atmosphere grew thick with tension, the green lights casting an ominous hue on Dracula''s bloodied smile as he prepared to strike anew, feeding off the very energy meant to shield his opponent.


    "I know you can''t form any more of those barriers." Dracula taunted, a sinister grin twisting his blood-smeared face.


    "The backlash you''re facing now will lead to your own demise if you do." Dracula raised his head with a smug air, confident in his observation but Ricky only scoffed, spitting blood to the side.


    Dracula was right; Ricky''s barriers, powerful as they were, came at a cost.


    Though they were growing stronger, especially given their mythic nature, the strain on his body was immense upon them being destroyed.


    His healing factor couldn''t keep up, struggling to mend his brain fast enough to maintain both offense and defense.


    Yet, despite the pain, he grinned.


    "You f*cking idiot, that was just me stalling." Ricky revealed since he didn''t need to rely solely on the barriers, his reason slowly perching itself on his shoulder.


    "I have assessed him." Alexander declared, his eyes gleaming with a fierceness that showcased his might.


    "I am ready."


    "Ha~" Ricky let out a rough laugh, plunging the ebony blade into the ground with a heavy thud, leaving it standing as he reached back to draw his bow.


    The shift in his stance marked a shift in his strategy, letting Alexander dictate the next phase of this battle as the commander slowly took the reins.


    "North, thirty degrees," Alexander murmured, his gaze steady.


    Dracula remained still, unmoving, while Ricky, with a swift and sudden motion, drew back his bow, eyes locked on the target.


    There was no hesitation, no second-guessing, not a shred of doubt as the arrow of the solar flare bow was drawn back, blazing with fierce intent.


    *Whoosh*


    The arrow from the solar flare bow sliced through the air, its trail blazing with radiant energy as it appeared to be aimed at empty space, an improbable target.


    But just then, Dracula surged forward, his speed blurring him from view as he moved, vanishing from his former spot and reappearing with lightning speed.


    At north, thirty degrees.


    *BOOM*


    Dracula''s body flew backward, his feet skidding across the ground, gouging deep trenches in the stone floor as wisps of smoke and flames trailed off his smoldering form.


    His gaze drifted down to the burning wound on his side, its edges sizzling with remnants of solar energy that hissed as they ate into his undead flesh.


    Slowly, he looked up, fury blazing in his eyes, only to find Ricky already drawing another arrow, the radiant bow casting an almost blinding light.


    The energy of the sun pulsed over Ricky''s skin, its intense heat creating waves of distortion around him, nearly unbearable, yet he seemed unfazed, his focus unwavering as he locked onto his target.


    "You insignificant-" Dracula''s voice dripped with rage, but before he could finish, the spectral cannons hovering in the air unleashed a storm of firepower, every shot targeting him with ruthless precision.


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    *BOOM*


    "West, seventy one degrees." Alexander calmly muttered, Ricky''s hands gracefully moving to align with its positioning as he unleashed another arrow.


    "ARGH!" Dracula roared, his body twisting mid-air as he narrowly dodged the barrage of blazing projectiles, only for another arrow to strike his thigh.


    Time itself seemed to crawl as he felt his control slipping, the solar energy from Ricky''s arrows searing into his undead flesh, weakening him with every pulse.


    His eyes scanned the battlefield, narrowing as he caught sight of Rachael lurking to the side, an idea sparking through his mind: if he could reach her, use her as a shield, the entire fight would shift directions.


    In a blur, Dracula lunged toward her, his monstrous form propelling forward with deadly intent-


    But Alexander was a step ahead.


    "East, twelve degrees," Alexander commanded coldly, his voice calculated and unwavering. Ricky''s response was immediate, pulling back and releasing another arrow without a second thought.


    The arrow sailed through the air, striking Dracula square in the back as the impact sent him stumbling, his spine arching as the scorching energy tore into him.


    He let out a howl of fury, smoke rising from his wounds as the solar energy burned through him, disrupting the dark forces that sustained him.


    In the three years since that brutal defeat, Alexander had been far from idle as he hadn''t just trained Ricky, he had dedicated himself to dissecting every moment of that disastrous day, letting each memory etch itself deeply into his being.


    The images of Henry''s slow, agonizing death haunted him, carving an indelible scar on his soul while watching his fellow familiar die as he did nothing but watch.


    Alexander endured those countless sleepless nights, replaying those final moments, every word, every gasping breath, making sure that he would never forget the helplessness from that day.


    It was when he was sure he would never forget that Alexander made a promise to himself: Dracula would never have that power over him again.


    But Alexander''s resolve didn''t just come from grief, it was a relentless, methodical drive to understand the mind and tactics of their enemy.


    He had studied Dracula''s every move from that battle, analyzing his psychological patterns, recognizing the terror tactics Dracula wielded like a weapon and replayed that day in his head, over and over again.


    He knew Dracula''s true strength lay as much in his power as in his ability to make others tremble, to dismantle them with fear.


    When Dracula reappeared, transformed and more monstrous than ever, Alexander''s initial shock was brief.


    He had spent years constructing a plan, adjusting and refining it, taking into account Dracula''s every possible reaction and weakness.


    But even with the new arrival of this form, this was not the same battle as before; this time, he was ready.


    "Northeast, twenty-two degrees," Alexander''s calm voice sliced through the chaos as Ricky adjusted and loosed another arrow. Dracula twisted mid-air, smirking, certain he had dodged the shot. But just as the arrow veered past him, he sensed a presence creeping up in his blind spot.


    Before he could react, Rachael lunged, her blade glinting as she drove it toward his exposed side.


    Dracula''s smirk twisted into a snarl as he threw his arm up to deflect her strike, but her claws cut deep, slicing across his forearm.


    Blood splattered, and Dracula staggered backwards into a wall, eyes blazing with fury only to be met with another arrow.


    Dracula tried to pivot away, but the arrow whistled by, grazing his cheek, and the heat burned against his skin.


    Dracula growled under his breath, the primal fury bubbling just beneath the surface as he launched himself forward, muscles coiling with power, intent on bridging the distance that kept him at bay from his opponents.


    The air crackled with the tension of the battle, but Ricky and Rachael were prepared.


    As Dracula advanced, he could feel the heat of the arrows being drawn back, their destructive potential aimed directly at him.


    With each step he took, an arrow flew, streaking toward him like a comet on a collision course.


    Dracula would veer to the side, narrowly avoiding the first shot, but a second arrow would strike somewhere along his body, this time being his shoulder, exploding in a flash of light that seared his flesh and sent him sprawling.


    Dracula grimaced, the pain igniting his rage further, but he pushed through it, forcing himself to focus.


    Yet, as he regained his footing, he found Rachael closing in and she was quick, darting forward with agility that belied her size, her blade slicing through the air.


    With a swift pivot, she would attack, aiming for his midsection and as Dracula met her with a desperate parry, wanting to sniff this pesky Van Helsing from the world, he would feel the arrowheads whispering past him, the heat a constant reminder of the danger.


    It was a vicious cycle, Dracula would close the distance, but the relentless barrage of arrows kept him staggered.


    He could sense Rachael lurking on the edge, waiting for her moment to strike and every attempt he made to overpower her resulted in a wound, each effort to dodge an arrow met with a calculated response from Ricky. It was infuriating.


    For the first time in centuries, Dracula felt the walls closing in around him. He was not the predator; he was being hunted.


    Dracula''s breath came in sharp bursts, and he realized he had to change his tactics.


    This stalemate was chipping away at his being, and he could not afford to show weakness.


    Dracula''s back slammed against the wall with a sickening thud as he barely avoided another arrow, but the impact left him reeling.


    Rachael seized the opportunity, her kick landing squarely in his ribs and sending him sprawling backward.


    Pain ignited through his body, but a fire blazed in his heart, a desperate determination to not just survive, but to annihilate the threats before him.


    He felt the walls of the room close in around him, the pressure mounting as his enemies circled like vultures, waiting for the final blow.


    "That is enough."


    In that moment, clarity cut through the chaos; he had no other choice.


    His magic had failed him, repelled by Ricky''s fierce bowmanship and Alexander''s keen intellect.


    So, with a primal roar that reverberated through the air, he made the most shocking decision of all.


    With a swift, almost surreal motion, Dracula plunged his hand into his own chest.


    The ground seemed to tremble beneath him as he grasped his heart, the core of his very being, and crushed it in a violent act of self-sacrifice.


    A wave of energy pulsed outwards, and in the next instant, an earth-shattering sonic boom erupted, sending everyone flying backward, their bodies slamming against the walls as the sheer force of his action radiated outward.


    The dust and debris filled the air, swirling chaotically as the magical power released from his core transformed him.


    In this moment, he hovered on the edge of godlike power, a phenomenon neither Ricky nor Rachael could have prepared for.


    Alexander, who had meticulously studied Dracula''s every move, stood dumbfounded as the vampire''s body swelled with energy beyond comprehension.


    This was Varnae''s legacy realized, a terrifying manifestation of power drawn from his very essence.


    Dracula''s muscles expanded, bulging grotesquely to four times their normal size as he morphed into a nightmarish figure.


    Dracula''s once elegant frame contorted into something primal and grotesque, his skin stretching taut over newly formed sinew and bone.


    Ugly, horrid wings tore from his back, ripping through flesh and fabric, and the air crackled with a palpable energy that crushed everything in its wake.


    The ground trembled beneath him, buckling under the weight of his transformation.


    As he stood amidst the chaos, a monstrous silhouette against the backdrop of destruction, the remnants of his humanity flickered like a dying ember.


    The room filled with an oppressive darkness, the light dimmed as if nature itself recoiled in horror.


    The sheer power radiating from him was suffocating, a malevolence that sent shivers down the spines of those who dared to meet his gaze.


    Dracula''s eyes, now glowing with an unholy light, locked onto Ricky and Rachael.


    Dracula felt invincible, yet a gnawing awareness tugged at him, the magic that coursed through his veins was fleeting.


    Without his heart, he had tapped into a well of energy that would dissipate as quickly as it had come.


    This was a final gamble, a reckless surge of strength that could not last.


    "I thought he was all out of trump cards-"


    *THOOOOM*


    The throne room shook violently as Ricky''s body was launched backward, crashing into the farthest wall with bone-jarring force.


    Dust and debris erupted around him as he struggled to regain his bearings as the air was thick with the acrid smell of blood and sweat, mingling with the raw energy that pulsed from Dracula''s transformation.


    *WHOOSH*


    A sonic boom reverberated through the hall, the sound finally echoing off the ornate walls as Dracula''s form manifested where Ricky once stood, appearing like a dark specter amidst the chaos.


    In the span of a heartbeat, Dracula unleashed five brutal punches, each blow resonating like a cannon blast against Ricky''s body.


    The sheer force behind them was staggering, shattering not just flesh but the very foundation of Ricky''s skeletal structure.


    Bones crunched with sickening finality, grinding into fragments as the impact reverberated through his body.


    Each strike felt like a wrecking ball slamming into him, splintering his ribs and sending jagged shards into the surrounding muscle tissue, creating a grotesque tapestry of destruction.


    Ricky gasped in pain, his vision blurring as agony radiated from his core as he could feel the sharpness of broken bone scraping against the interior of his muscles, like shards of glass embedded in raw flesh, tearing and ripping with every labored breath.


    Blood poured from his mouth, a bitter coppery taste flooding his senses, mixing with the sweat that dripped down his brow.


    Ricky tried to stand, his muscles screaming in protest as he crawled toward the ebony blade, desperate to reclaim his weapon.


    His fingers stretched out, trembling with effort, only to have a boot land heavily on his wrist, pinning him down.


    "You worthless bug." Dracula sneered, his voice dripping with contempt.


    *CRUNCH*


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The scream tore from Ricky''s throat, a raw and anguished cry as Dracula''s weight bore down mercilessly.


    The sickening sound of bone shattering echoed in the chamber, the pressure reducing his wrist to a grotesque, bloody pulp.


    "How dare you reduce me to such a state." Dracula hatefully uttered, seizing Ricky by the collar, lifting him effortlessly from the ground before hurling him across the room.


    *BOOOM*


    The impact reverberated through the air as Ricky''s body collided with the wall, the force of the blow leaving a crater-like dent in the stone.


    *COUGH*


    Blood sprayed from his mouth, splattering the floor with vivid crimson droplets, as he struggled to catch his breath.


    The sounds of his bones cracking echoed around him, each snap a cruel reminder of his fragile state, yet all he could hear was a relentless ringing that drowned out the chaos of the fight.


    Ricky''s vision swam, dark spots dancing before his eyes as he fought to regain his bearings, knowing that Dracula''s fury was far from satiated.


    "That is enough playing around." Dracula growled, his voice dripping with malice.


    "KERUK!" Rachael''s eyes widened as the breath was squeezed from her lungs, Dracula suddenly grabbing her throat as panic flooding her senses.


    "Now I''m going to kill you, turn you into a ghoul, then rip out Ricky''s core while I watch you feast on his barely clinging corpse." Dracula hissed, his claws digging into her flesh, drawing blood.


    Rachael''s instincts kicked in, and she clawed at his hand, but it was futile; his grip was unyielding.


    The thrill of terror coursed through her, a potent mixture of rage and fear igniting within her as she could feel the strength fading from her limbs, the edges of her vision blurring as Dracula relished in her struggle.


    His wicked smile widened, revealing the sharpness of his fangs, a harbinger of the gruesome fate he had in store.


    "You''ll never win~" Rachael scratched out these words from throat, halting Dracula''s actions as he let out a hysterical laughter.


    "You humans, preaching of good when all you ever do is bring chaos and dread in your wake." Dracula''s grip tightened on Rachael, preventing any chance of her intervening, his fingers like iron clamps around her throat.


    "Do you not remember that I was once a human, too? My own kind, the very humans you revere, killed my loved ones, obliterated my everything, all for land that never belonged to them in the first place." Dracula muttered, his voice low and laced with bitterness.


    As he spoke, he noticed Rachael''s desperate attempts to voice her thoughts, but he could read the fear in her eyes, the dawning realization as she connected the dots with Veredelt''s fate.


    "If you believe that I should find some revelation, some clarity of purpose because my master tempted those at the Ottoman Empire, then you are sorely mistaken." Dracula answered her with a malicious glint in his eyes.


    Dracula poured his venomous rhetoric onto Rachael, watching as her breath hitched, her face paling beneath the strain.


    "Is the snake entirely to blame for tempting Eve?" Dracula hissed, his words wrapping around her like a noose.


    "Of course not, she had every option to refrain from biting that apple, yet she chose to do so anyway." Dracula''s voice dripped with disdain as he continued.


    "You preach of good, but what is evil, what is evil if not the very act of denying one''s own nature-


    Ricky looked up, his mangled body struggling to heal against the overwhelming force that was Dracula.


    Each breath was a laborious effort, and the cold grip of despair tightened around his chest as he realized that his fate was rapidly approaching.


    Alexander, barely able to recover from his own injuries, staggered to the side, blood trickling down his forehead and pooling near his eyes.


    The cacophony of battle reverberated in Ricky''s ears, drowning out the sounds of Rachael''s futile attempts to break free from Dracula''s clutches.


    As Dracula laughed at her, a chilling sound that echoed like thunder in the cavernous throne room, Ricky''s vision began to blur, darkness encroaching on the edges of his consciousness.


    ''Need a hand?''


    Time seemed to stretch and slow as Ricky''s gaze fell upon the ebony blade resting nearby, its hilt gleaming ominously in the dim light.


    It seemed to pulse with life, a sentient entity staring back at him with a knowing smile, as if it understood the gravity of his situation.


    The blade''s presence ignited something deep within him, a flicker of determination amidst the overwhelming despair.


    With a final effort, Ricky forced himself to reach for the blade, feeling the familiar coolness of the metal against his fingers.


    "Such a spectacular fight, I must say." The Ebony Blade clapped, its voice echoing with a haunting yet amused tone, resonating in the stillness of its realm.


    Ricky stood within the blade''s suspended space, far removed from the chaos of the throne room.


    In this moment, time barely moved, allowing him to gather his thoughts and assess the dire situation.


    He turned his gaze to the side, and there was Dracula, caught in an eternal moment of triumph, his laughter freezing mid-cackle as he held Rachael in his merciless grip.


    Her struggles seemed futile, her expression a mixture of anger and desperation, yet it was as if she had been paused in the midst of her defiance, creating a surreal tableau that felt both unsettling and oddly serene.


    "Dont'' worry time is somewhat froze in this space-"


    "Give me all the power." Ricky stretched out his hand, with a serious expression that betrayed every part of his personality.


    *Sigh*


    "Of course, you want my power. Which wielder didn''t?" The Ebony Blade sighed, its tone heavy with sarcasm as it began to pace around Ricky, an ethereal presence in the charged atmosphere.


    "But that power comes at a price, a very steep price." The Ebony Blade''s voice dropped to a whisper, wrapping around Ricky like an ominous web, filling the air with foreboding.


    "I want you to kill a thousand people-"


    "Fine, give me your power," Ricky interrupted, holding out his hand, the desperation in his voice palpable as he brushed aside the horrific request. He was ready to embrace the darkness, unconcerned by the price attached to it. The blade''s eyebrow twitched in disbelief.


    "Of my choosing." The Ebony Blade continued, the cadence of its words taking on a more sinister edge.


    "I want you to kill one thousand innocent people-"


    "Fine-"


    "NO, NO, NO, NO, NO! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?" The Ebony Blade stomped in place, its form flickering as if it was caught between disbelief and frustration as it clutched its head, its frustration palpable in the still air.


    "What is your deal? I''m trying to coexist with you, and even accept your deal-"


    "BECAUSE YOUR BLOODLINE IS SUPPOSED TO BE A BUNCH OF HYPOCRITICAL JUSTICE SEEKERS!" The Ebony Blade screeched, the intensity of its voice causing the very fabric of its domain to tremble violently.


    "YOU ARE HYPOCRITICAL, YOUR ANCESTORS ARE HYPOCRITICAL! YOU ALWAYS BELIEVE IN NOBLE JUSTICE WHILE KILLING MILLIONS UNDER THE IDEAL OF GOOD-"


    It poked Ricky''s chest forcefully, the blade''s presence pressing down on him, burdening him with the weight of its words.


    Ricky, overwhelmed by the accusation, pushed it away, the force of his action reverberating in the stillness of the realm.


    "I don''t care about being a good person, I don''t strive to always do the right thing. I wake up everyday to do whatever I want, whenever I want it!" Ricky yelled his words into his blades skulls, frustrated at how many times he had to say it for this dull blade to understand


    The Ebony Blade was a little speechless, taking a couple steps back only for Ricky to take one step forward.


    "Why do you hate me so much-"


    "BECAUSE THAT IS NOT HOW PERCIVAL WOULD''VE ACTED!" The Ebony Blade screamed back at Ricky, who suddenly looked taken aback, his expression shifting to one of disbelief.


    "Woooooooooooooooooooooow~" Ricky rolled his eyes, the dramatic display only serving to amplify the blade''s frustration.


    The Ebony Blade, unable to contain its anger, paced furiously around him, its energy crackling in the air like a tempest.


    In that moment, Ricky realized the truth, this was never about him and the Ebony Blade.


    It was a vessel for the blade''s deep-seated resentment towards Percival, the one who had first wielded its power.


    "You do not understand what Percival had done to me." The blade seethed, its voice thick with bitterness.


    "He wasn''t merely my first user, but the first person to unlock the sheer power that lies within me." The Ebony Blade thumped its chest, and Ricky''s gaze darted to the vision, noting how Dracula inched closer, an ever-present threat as although time seemingly stopped, it didn''t stop completely.


    "He saw the power I could possess firsthand, how it could change the world and turn the tide of any battle, and shunned me for it!" The Ebony Blade''s voice dripped with hatred as it projected its feelings onto Ricky, who frowned at this revelation, recognizing the twisted history they shared.


    "You want to know why you see those memories and can''t control yourself?" The blade continued, its tone sharp and accusatory.


    "Because that is the side effect of power, my power, which draws out the very worst in people!" The Ebony Blade vented out its frustration towards Ricky, showing that it was merely born this way and nothing more.


    "However, instead of wielding me with truth, that bastard only saw what would happen if this power ended up in the hands of those impure of thought." The Ebony Blade words were laced with venom as the blade recalled its betrayal.


    "So instead of fighting Morgana and freeing Camelot, he took the cowardly approach and used all his power in a ritual to bind me to his bloodline, forever!" The Ebony Blade screeched, its anguish palpable.


    For years, the sword that longed for battle and glory was reduced to a mere tool, shackled by the fears of its first wielder.


    It could only watch in frustration as its potential was stifled, chained to the descendants of a man who feared the very power that could have changed everything.


    Ricky stood amidst the chaos, grappling with the weight of the blade''s history, and the burden of the legacy that now fell upon him.


    "That''s the reason why you f*cking hate me, really!" Ricky yelled at the Ebony Blade, exasperation spilling from every word as he grappled with the intensity of the moment.


    "YES! I''M A SWORD WHO DOESN''T WANT TO BE CHAINED BY BLOOD BUT CUT THROUGH IT!" The blade''s voice rang out, filled with frustration and a fervent desire for liberation.


    "Fine, you know what, let''s make another deal instead." Ricky''s tone shifted, a spark of determination igniting in his chest.


    "Listen, I could go around killing a thousand people and be a psychotic murderer, but I know that''s not what you really want." Ricky''s voice surged with conviction, stepping forward to meet the blade''s makeshift eyes.


    "I will figure out a way to release you from the bloodline, if you cooperate with me, ALL THE TIME!" Ricky struck his hands together, startling the Ebony Blade with the intensity of his proclamation.


    "It can''t be selective; you and I have to be on the same page all the time." Ricky continued, frustration pouring out of him.


    "I am so sick and tired of you invading my mind, instilling random bouts of anger, then pretending as if you did no wrong." Ricky recalled the memory of the mafia incident resurfaced, fueling his words.


    The Ebony Blade hesitated, taken aback by Ricky''s unexpected declaration.


    This was information it hadn''t anticipated revealing, yet it understood the gravity of Percival''s choices and the burden they placed on Ricky.


    Unlike every other wielder who had accepted their lineage without question, Ricky stood apart, the black sheep of a bloodline steeped in chivalry and tradition.


    "I''ll give you your freedom and find a way to break this spell, but if I do it, you have to have my back along the way. Got it?" Ricky extended his hand, locking eyes with the blade.


    The Ebony Blade was momentarily stunned, bewildered by the idea that Ricky would even suggest such a thing.


    "I''m tired of fighting with you. Do we have a deal?" Ricky pressed, a fierce resolve burning in his gaze as he asked once more.


    The Ebony Blade was caught off guard; this was not how things were supposed to unfold.


    It was a weapon meant for destruction, a force of chaos, and yet here was Ricky, offering an alliance, a chance at freedom.


    The blade''s internal conflict raged as it had been crafted to embody power and rage, but the prospect of true freedom beckoned alluringly.


    "Deal." The Ebony Blade finally uttered, its voice steady, though tinged with disbelief.


    "If you promise to free me, then I shall assist you to the fullest."


    As their hands clasped together, an electric current surged between them, red sparks igniting in the air like fireflies in the dark.


    The full force of the Ebony Blade, a primal energy that longed to cleave through the world, pulsed into Ricky''s being.


    "The only way you stand a chance is if you use my full power and everything you have." The Ebony Blade warned, its tone grave and serious.


    "But I must warn you, it comes with a grave cost: you will use your sanity."


    "You could lose everything."


    The Ebony Blade seriously gazed into Ricky eyes and for the first time, his smile slowly returned.


    "I''m not gonna lose, not his time."


    *WHOOOOOOOOOOSH*


    In real time, as Dracula''s claws loomed ominously, poised to carve Rachael''s flesh, Ricky''s supposedly crushed body surged to life amidst the chaos as a crimson glow enveloping his form.


    "Oh, has the hero come to save the princess-"


    "Just shut the f*ck up." Ricky raised his gaze, defiance etched across his face as he felt the immense weight of the Ebony Blade''s power threatening to consume him whole.


    The red energy swirled around him, pulsing with an intensity that surged like a wildfire, each heartbeat echoing with the chaotic blend of his abilities.


    In the tension-filled air, Dracula''s mocking laughter faded, his smirk faltering as he sensed the shifting tides of power.


    It was then, amidst the vampire''s widening eyes, that Ricky''s aura exploded to a whole new level.


    A kaleidoscope of colors erupted from him, vibrant hues swirling and dancing like living flames, each representing the skills he had honed through relentless struggle: Psionic Pyro-Sovereignty glimmered with fiery intensity, Radiant Harmony Aura shimmered with a soft, ethereal glow, the piercing gaze of the Emperor Eye shone with unparalleled clarity, and Intuitive Mechanical Mastery pulsed with the rhythm of unbreakable resolve.


    As Dracula carelessly threw Rachael to the side, Ricky felt the surge of his magic and the eldritch flames from his gauntlets rising like an inferno, merging and intertwining in a dazzling display of raw energy.


    [Dual Link Activated]


    Alexander could tell this was the last stand, activating the duel link and putting his entire faith into Ricky as he closed his eyes, melting into his being.


    "I can''t stomach having to sit through another lecture about someone else''s ideals, using your nature as an excuse to let you all sleep at night." Ricky grunted, his mind straining under the tremendous pressure of the Ebony Blade.


    The powers swirled violently around him, each one struggling for dominance, yet somehow the blade cut through all the restrictions as they began to blend, their essence intermingling despite their inherent incompatibility.


    "Good?" Ricky sneered, gritting his teeth against the agony that coursed through him.


    "Evil?" Ricky spat, his voice laced with contempt.


    "It''s all just bullsh*t."


    The overload of energy surged through him like a tidal wave, threatening to tear him apart as his body strained against the forces wrestling within.


    His system panel flickered ominously, alarms ringing in the depths of his consciousness, warning him of the chaos brewing inside.


    Yet, he stood firm, refusing to be consumed by the madness as the energies swirled into a tempest around him, creating a maelstrom of power, a vortex that began to coalesce into something greater, a manifestation of his will, a manifestation of the very abnormal abomination he was in this world, in this reality.


    [Error]


    [Error]


    [Skills &***$#@Q fusing into *&^A%& The Whispering Void gives its approval*&%^&EH]


    [Does the user wish to merge the skills]


    *DING*


    [New Mythic Skill Created: Eldritch Abomination]


    Description: An Eldritch horror that should not and cannot exist yet has been permitted by the looming depths of the whispering void to give birth to such a horrifying creation. The Eldritch Abomination represents the convergence of all that is unnatural and chaotic, a manifestation of Ricky''s defiance against the established order of power and morality. It stands as a testament to his resilience and determination to wield a power beyond comprehension.


    Powers and Abilities:


    Feed: This ability allows Ricky to consume any skill or power below the grade of Eldritch Abomination, assimilating their essence to further augment his own power. The absorbed skills can be restructured and incorporated into his abilities, enhancing their effectiveness or even transforming them into new forms. The more he consumes, the more potent the Eldritch Abomination becomes, evolving in ways that defy conventional understanding of power hierarchies.


    ''Feed it all.'' Ricky whispered internally, an echo of determination reverberating within him.


    As Dracula lunged forward, fueled by his confidence, a terrible wave of void-black energy exploded from Ricky, sending the vampire crashing back with a force that rattled the very air.


    Ricky''s transformation had reached its zenith, his figure cloaked in an aura that felt like the abyss itself.


    His eyes, once vibrant with white color of human emotion, now presented a haunting sight, voids of color that swallowed light, with red and green irises flickering like angry stars in a swirling cosmos.


    The veins surrounding his eyes pulsed black, marking him as a vessel of something far more powerful and dark than mere mortal strength.


    Hunched slightly, Ricky exuded an aura of malevolence and power as from his back, black chains unfurled like sentient tentacles, writhing and twisting with a life of their own.


    Each chain glistened with a dark sheen, whispering of ancient, forbidden knowledge and a thirst for chaos as they lashed out occasionally, tasting the air, eager for the taste of blood.


    His gauntlets had melted into his hands, fusing with his very being, making him a part of the Eldritch Abomination itself.


    The blackened flesh radiated a heat that felt like the core of a dying star, crackling with energy.


    The Ebony Blade gripped tightly in his transformed hand, pulsated with eldritch fire that flickered and roared, a hellish blend of black flames and crackling red electricity that danced around him like wild serpents seeking their prey.


    "Her constant spouting of justice." Ricky declared, disdain etched into his features, the remnants of Percival''s ideals echoing in his mind.


    "And your hatred." Ricky countered, recognizing the darkness that had been projected onto him by the Ebony Blade.


    "I reject them both!" Ricky shouted, his words a defiant roar against the forces that sought to control him as his void black aura exploded outwards..


    "The only thing that matters, the only ideal that will reach my ears, and the only story that will be told after I rip your skull from your head." Ricky paused, the energy swirling around him reaching a fever pitch, drawing from every skill and emotion he had ever wielded.


    "IS WHATEVER I F*CKING SAY IT IS!"


    *THOOOOM*


    Author''s Note: I had no clue that you had to have your pateron reviewed so I guess its gonna happens when it happens. I''ll just make an announcement in a couple of days, hope you enjoyed the Chapter.

 Chapter 103 Patreon Announcement

    Chapter 103  Patreon Announcement


    Sorry to those who totally thought this was a new chap but it''s really my Patreon Announcement. For those who don''t care, the next chap is gonna be on thursday like usual.


    For those who do care, it''s pretty standard, 5 long ass advanced chapter for 5 bucks and that''s kinda it cause I''m too lazy to do more.


    By the way, if any of you are worried that I''ll hinder chapters behind a paywall, then let me remind you that I won''t f*cking do that because I''ve never felt more rage than reading a smut fic where they hide their smut chapters behind a paywall. Those f*cking bastards are going to hell. F*ck those guys.


    Nothings really gonna change for the free to reads, the chaps will just keep pumping out as usual from Thurs-Sun like always.


    Anyways the link is: https://www.patreon.com/c/LaughingFiend


    or https://www.patreon.com/LaughingFiend


    or you can just go on Pateron and type LaughingFiend.


    Yeah that''s about it, but I''m pushing the Q&A until the end of volume two cause it sheds light on more things.

 Chapter 104 - 101: Last Stand

    Chapter 104: Chapter 101: Last Stand


    Power manifests differently for everyone; to some, it''s a vision or a metaphor, and to Ricky, it appeared as a cliff, looming, unyielding, and hateful.


    At the top of this precipice stood Dracula, looking down like a monarch from his throne, gazing upon the endless struggles of those below with detached amusement, as if watching worms squirm in the dirt.


    To him, Ricky should have been just another among the writhing mass, a creature to be crushed and dismissed.


    What Dracula failed to understand was the nature of the cliff itself, the very foundation where he stood and looked down upon the world.


    This cliffside bore the marks of countless attempts to scale it, its rough walls covered in the desperate scratches and bloody claw marks of those who tried and fell, shattered by the fall, deterring most.


    The wall was a tapestry of failed attempts, a symphony of resilience Dracula mocked but never truly understood.


    Yet amid the scratches and stains of struggle, one set of marks was different.


    These clawed imprints, deeper and more relentless, reappeared time and again, each fresh with blood, as though the climber had been beaten back repeatedly, only to return each time with renewed determination.


    These were Ricky''s marks.


    Unlike others, he climbed with ruthless resolve, even when there was no clear foothold, his fingers digging into the stone, carving out grips through sheer force of will.


    And when Dracula finally looked closer, truly looked at those blood-streaked, sweat-stained handholds, he saw it.


    A hand, torn and bloodied, had reached the summit as its nails dug into the earth with a defiant grip, pulling Ricky up to stand beside him, that familiar smirk playing across his face, undeterred and unbroken.


    THOOM


    "You fool, this changes nothing." Dracula lifted his gaze, unamused, eyes narrowing at the writhing storm of power before him.


    "AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky let out a twisted laugh, echoing with a sickening edge, feeling the full brunt of his berserk state as his sanity was slipping in and out.


    His void-black aura surged, wild and furious, as if it would tear him apart from within.


    The chaotic energy around him shifted and coiled, red and green lights flashing, clashing violently against the relentless dark.


    Each second, his mind seemed to fracture more, bits of his sanity slipping away, yet he clung to that power, letting the maelstrom consume him piece by piece.


    The chaotic mass of energy surrounding Ricky was both magnificent and terrifying, a destructive force barely held together by sheer will.


    "You will die here, this struggle will be for not." Dracula intoned, gazing down at Ricky''s bloodied, battered form, his voice echoing with cold certainty as the vampire lord''s shadow loomed over him, certain of his victory.


    "I''ve already died once, what''s one more?" Ricky let out a strained laugh, blood dripping down his face as his teeth gleamed in a crazed grin while licking the black blood on his teeth.


    In an instant, Dracula appeared behind him, the air slicing in his wake as he aimed to finish it with a precise, lethal strike.


    But Ricky turned his head just enough to catch Dracula''s gaze, his grin unbroken, eyes lit with a dark, unrelenting defiance that seemingly glimpsed into reality and the void.


    WHOOSH


    BOOM


    Ricky twisted on his heel, the Ebony Blade arcing through the air with a ferocious slash, dark flames roaring from its edge.


    Dracula darted aside with supernatural speed, but even his reflexes couldn''t keep him untouched, the searing void flames licked across his side, leaving his fur singed and smoking.


    Dracula hatefully clicked his tongue, leaping back to reassess as the black energy coiled tighter around Ricky, an ominous storm ready to break.


    But Ricky was smiling, unlike his usual reckless and unrelenting one as his hollow, void-filled eyes saw it, he saw Dracula with an unsettling clarity.


    "I saw it! I F*CKING SAW IT!" Ricky''s voice tore through the air, each word dripping with madness as his fingers clawed at his face, widening his eyes like a deranged specter.


    His laughter echoed, chilling and triumphant, as if savoring the thrill of seeing Dracula within striking range.


    Dracula snarled, his fangs bared as he lunged forward, claws extended to rip Ricky apart. But before he could strike, a mass of black chains shot out from Ricky''s spine, twisting and slithering through the air, snapping toward Dracula like a pack of hungry serpents.


    He dodged the first, but when he tried to sever the chains, he felt the crushing weight of the abyss itself.


    Dracula''s eyes narrowed in shock as his strike merely glanced off one of the writhing tendrils, failing to break its grasp.


    In that instant, the other chains seized their chance, lunging forward to wrap around his right arm, coiling tighter with each second.


    Dracula struggled, his muscles straining as he fought against their vice-like hold, but the chains tightened, dragging him down as though the depths themselves were reaching up to consume him.


    In a flash, Ricky was upon him, red energy crackling wildly from his body, every inch of him surging with power.


    His blade swung down, black flames trailing in its wake as he struck with a force that echoed like thunder.


    But Dracula reacted with unholy speed, catching Ricky''s wrist mid-swing, halting the swing right at his nose hairs as their grips were now locked in a clash of monstrous strength that sent tremors through the ground beneath them.


    But Ricky was relentless.


    BAM


    CRUNCH


    Even as Dracula held him at bay, Ricky''s head swung up in a brutal arc, before slamming his head into Dracula''s nose with the force of a sledgehammer.


    Black blood spewed down from his face, Dracula caught off guard by the brutal counter attack as his arm was suddenly yanked back.


    ''No, I can''t dodge-


    BOOM


    In the blink of an eye, Dracula''s arm was severed, suspended in mid-air as black droplets of blood floated around it, gleaming ominously.


    Dracula''s shock was palpable; he was supposed to be faster, stronger, an unbreakable force against Ricky''s lesser might.


    But the slash he had just witnessed defied all of that.


    Ricky had adapted, forsaking his usual technique as instead of merely channeling his void flames along the edge, he detonated them within the blade itself, launching it forward with the force and speed of a lightning strike.


    The strike had been a blinding flash, a black rocket propelled by raw fury and flame, making the Ebony Blade slice through the air with terrifying precision.


    "Y-YOU INSECT!" Dracula roared, his eyes bloodshot as he clawed away the corroding flesh and staggered back.


    But Ricky was relentless, his stance dropped low, a gleam of gold flickering in his eyes, fueling his void-clad form.


    BOOM


    Ricky shot forward like a bullet, his entire form engulfed in surging black flames as he glided over the torn up ground as if it were ice, closing the gap before Dracula''s arm could even begin to regenerate.


    Dracula braced himself, unyielding, his remaining arm swelling with dark power as he channeled raw magic into his veins.


    "WHY WON''T YOU JUST DIE!" Dracula screeched out, raising his arm for a crushing blow.


    "BECAUSE A COCKROACH DOESN''T DIE THAT EASILY!" Ricky only grinned, his laughter echoing like a madman''s battle cry.


    Without hesitation, Ricky thrust his sword forward, unflinching in the face of Dracula''s impending strike.


    The Ebony Blade roared to life, its void-black flames swirling behind it with deadly intent as the two forces collided, each vying for dominance.


    THOOM


    The impact unleashed a deafening explosion, the air itself warping under the sheer force of their clash.


    The energy condensed for a heartbeat, pulsing with a terrifying stillness, before erupting outward in a massive shockwave.


    Dark energy ravaged the battlefield, ripping through the ground, turning it into an abyssal wasteland as if reality itself was being shredded by their power.


    The air crackled with raw, uncontainable might, the residue of dark energies sparking and swirling as if drawn to the devastation they had caused.


    In the heart of the devastation, amidst the ruins of their violent clash, two figures were thrown backwards by the force of their blows.


    Ricky''s feet skidded along the jagged ground, leaving deep gouges in the earth as he struggled to maintain his balance.


    Black blood seeped from the puncture wounds in his stomach and chest, dripping steadily onto the cracked earth.


    The eerie liquid stained his legs, pooling beneath him as his breath came in labored, rasping gasps.


    His body was battered, and the weight of his eldritch state pressed heavily on him.


    Blood trickled from his nose and mouth, the visible signs of damage a testament to the sheer brutality of their exchange.


    Yet, beneath the carnage, something darker, something more primal stirred as his healing skill, a gift now intertwined with the very essence of his eldritch power, began to surge within him.


    Shadowy tendrils crawled from the open wounds on his body, knitting together flesh, sealing the holes as the darkness of his power slowly pulled him back from the brink of destruction.


    Thump


    Ricky''s heart, driven by the unrelenting force of his eldritch energy, pulsed with a dark rhythm, a beat of life that defied the damage done.


    From his back, the chains that writhed like sentient serpents surged forward, siphoning the energy from Dracula''s severed arm still entangled in their grip.


    With each pulse, the chains absorbed the power, fueling his recovery, and with it, a new surge of strength began to seep into his limbs.


    His wounds began to close, but there was a maddening hunger in his eyes, an abyssal void where once there was light.


    Ricky''s breath steadied as his body, though damaged, began to shift and reform, a cruel mockery of mortality.


    "You''re a nobody, how could you possess this power!" Dracula spat, his voice dripping with venom as he gripped his chest, where a massive slash marred his flesh.


    The wound was still raw, and as his clawed hand tore at the exposed tissue, black veins pulsed ominously beneath his skin, spreading like a sinister infection.


    The more he tried to rip away the decaying flesh, the more it clung to him, stubbornly refusing to fall away.


    It was as though the eldritch essence from Ricky''s attack had embedded itself into his very being, like a disease that had taken root deep within him.


    The blackness seeped further, festering along the edges of the wound, warping the once-immaculate, powerful form of Dracula into something grotesque.


    Even his arm, once so regally powerful, now twisted and contorted in an agonizing regeneration.


    Muscle and bone were exposed, raw and trembling, as though the process of healing itself was in turmoil.


    Skin and fur failed to regenerate, leaving behind a disfigured mess of exposed sinew and bone, the very essence of his strength disintegrating before him.


    "You think I''m a nobody?" Ricky''s voice dripped with amusement, his head tilting as that twisted smirk crept across his face. The air around him crackled with red energy, his aura pulsing with an almost predatory intensity. As he raised the Ebony Blade once more, the dark flames flickered and danced with fury.


    "Then help me change that, Dracula!" Ricky''s voice boomed, taunting and manic, as he charged forward with the ferocity of a beast unleashed.


    Dracula''s bat-like wings flapped hard, propelling him into the air with an almost inhuman speed and Ricky, too, shot upwards to meet him, his eyes blazing with murderous intent.


    BAM


    The two forces collided with a shockwave, the impact sending a ripple through the very air.


    Ricky''s smirk only widened as he stood face to face with Dracula, his body thrumming with the hunger for power.


    "Once I''ve ripped your head off, everyone will know my name, and they will fear me!" Ricky roared, the words laced with unrestrained madness.


    Before Dracula could react, Ricky''s foot shot out, crashing into his abdomen with bone-shattering force.


    The impact crushed through Dracula''s defenses, but as Ricky''s foot connected, Dracula''s claws erupted from his fingers, five sharp talons sinking into Ricky''s body, tearing into flesh with a sickening ripping sound.


    BAM


    The two were separated in an instant, both reeling from the brutal exchange.


    Dracula staggered, clutching at the injury in his side, his claws coated in Ricky''s blood and yet, as Dracula recovered, Ricky was already in motion.


    Without hesitation, he flung the Ebony Blade forward, its dark edge slicing through the air like a missile.


    Dracula''s eyes flashed with recognition as he twisted his head, narrowly avoiding the blade''s strike while a faint slash marked his cheek as the blade grazed him, drawing a thin line of blood.


    His red eyes snapped back to Ricky, who had already begun to fly backward, unaffected by the wound he''d just received.


    Ricky didn''t care about the injury; his mind was consumed by one singular thought.


    ''Kill Dracula.''


    Ricky''s body ached, blood dripping from his wounds, but none of it mattered.


    His existence had become secondary, a mere vessel for his relentless drive as every ounce of his being was focused on erasing the vampire before him.


    There was no room for fear, no room for pain; just the bloodlust burning in his veins and the echo of his heartbeat, a steady reminder that he was alive, and he was going to make sure Dracula wasn''t.


    Ricky slammed into the wall, the impact shaking his bones as if they might snap, his body screaming in protest under the crushing force.


    But his vision never wavered from Dracula, his eyes locked onto the vampire with a manic gleam.


    Despite the agony, his grin only stretched wider, twisted and hungry, as if the pain itself was fuel to the inferno within him.


    His body sunk deeper into the wall, cracks spider-webbing out from where he collided, but Ricky didn''t care.


    The grimoire, his constant companion, now finally floated beside him, its pages fluttering with an unnatural wind, but something had changed.


    The book, once an ordinary tome, was now throbbed with a pulsating, eldritch energy that made the air around it vibrate with a palpable weight.


    It no longer resembled the thing it had once been, no, it was far more than that now.


    The Necronomicon of the Void had awakened.


    Its pages, once simple and archaic, were now alive, filled with cryptic symbols that writhed and squirmed like the very fabric of reality itself was being distorted by the knowledge contained within.


    Dark energies spiraled and coiled around the grimoire, drawing from the abyss, feeding Ricky''s eldritch powers as if the book itself had become an extension of the whispering void itself.


    As Ricky''s fingers brushed against the Necronomicon of the Void, the air around him seemed to pulse, thick with an overwhelming darkness.


    The blood pouring from his wounds, the black ichor that had once dripped helplessly to the ground, began to defy gravity.


    It floated towards the open pages, twisting and writhing like living tendrils, drawn into the book with an insatiable hunger.


    Void flames that had swirled menacingly around him now leapt toward the tome, dancing with an intensity that made the air vibrate.


    The fire wasn''t mere flame anymore; it was a manifestation of the abyss itself, alive with a malevolent energy, and it joined the blood in its inexorable pull toward the Necronomicon.


    Each flicker and spark seemed to feed the black tendrils that snaked out from the book, their hungry coils wrapping around the essence of Ricky''s very being.


    The book''s pages turned of their own accord, each one stained black, as if it had absorbed the very fabric of reality itself.


    The more Ricky bled, the more the book seemed to grow, a dark page materializing with every drop of blood that was consumed, every burst of eldritch flame that was fed into its depths.


    His blood no longer dripped to the ground but disappeared into the tome as though it was never meant to leave, its essence absorbed by the book in a frenzy of thirst.


    A new page formed, one blacker than the deepest shadows, the runes and symbols etched upon it glowing with an unearthly light.


    Each letter seemed to scream with a language that did not belong to the world Ricky knew, a forbidden tongue that reverberated through the very air, shaking the ground beneath him, yet he heard its whispers.


    Dracula, watching from above, couldn''t help but falter for a fraction of a second, his crimson eyes narrowing in disbelief.


    This wasn''t just a man standing before him anymore, this was something far darker, far more terrifying.


    "You''re an abomination," Dracula hissed, his voice dripping with venom, yet his eyes betrayed a flicker of unease.


    The words were coated in irony, his gaze locked onto Ricky, who stood poised, as if ready to usher in the end of an era.


    Ricky''s lips curled into a smirk while his hands trembled, not from fear, but from the sheer exhilaration of what was to come.


    Ricky could feel it, this moment had been building, the hunger in him, the Void, ready to devour all that stood in its path.


    "And that abomination stands before you." Ricky''s voice was laced with madness, tinged with a manic energy that twisted the air around him.


    "Stronger than ever!" Ricky cackled out, completely sunken into his deranged state while the Necronomicon, now writhing in his grip, pulsed with an insatiable hunger, its pages whispering secrets that could unravel the very fabric of reality.


    It was then, in the thick of the destruction, that the words from the Necromicon whispered toward Ricky; its voice a faint, serpentine hiss that seemed to slide through his very mind.


    Without thinking, his mouth moved in unison with the book, each word leaving his lips like a chant born from the depths of hell itself.


    "From the depths where silence screams, I call the tendrils, born of dreams. Through endless darkness, I seek the thread. By the Void''s will, all paths are led." Ricky''s voice rose a pitch, chanted in the whispering void''s mother tongue, the words slipping from his mouth like a deadly chant, each syllable steeped in the language of nightmares.


    "Tenebris threads." Ricky''s soft tone quietly uttered the word of the spell, only for hundreds upon hundreds of tendrils as thin as threads spiral out of the Necrominoium.


    Ricky whispered, the words barely audible yet carrying a weight that rattled the bones of anyone who could hear. The moment the spell left his lips, the air itself seemed to twist, and the first thread shot out, impossibly thin, impossibly sharp.


    Then, like an awakening beast, hundreds upon hundreds of threads erupted from the Necronomicon, slithering and snapping in the air like living serpents.


    They were black as night, each one vibrating with malevolent energy as the sound they made was unbearable, a screeching sound that twisted the very space between them, a terrible, inhuman wail that made the skin crawl.


    It was as if the air itself screamed in agony, a perfect harmony of horror.


    Dracula''s bloodshot eyes widened as the ancient vampire, the once-untouchable creature, felt it; a pressure, a presence that made his instincts flare.


    Dracula''s body tensed, muscles coiling as he pushed off the ground in a blur of speed, soaring into the air like a shadow.


    Dracula''s wings snapped open with a sickening crack, a sound like the tearing of skin, revealing their vast, leathery expanse.


    Each membrane pulsed with a grotesque, unnatural strength, veins and spots of fur.


    With a powerful, violent flap, his body shot upwards, ascending into the air with the brutal elegance of a predator closing in on its prey.


    Below him, the ground trembled as the tsunami of dark threads collided with the spot where he had just been.


    The impact was catastrophic, like a hundred whips cracking at once, the very earth beneath them groaning in agony.


    The threads weren''t content with simply slicing the floor; they tore through the stone and concrete as if they were mere paper, shredding through the layers of the room with malevolent hunger.


    With each inch they traveled, the air vibrated, screeching in protest like a thousand nails dragging across glass.


    They didn''t slow down, they didn''t pause, and they tore through everything in their path, crashing into the walls with deafening force, leaving jagged scars where they passed.


    The walls themselves seemed to recoil, shaking in terror, as though the building itself recognized the horror they carried.


    The air around Dracula crackled with dread as the threads shot upwards, their blackened forms twisting and spiraling like serpents preparing to strike.


    The very floor beneath him began to warp and writhe, veins of dark energy pulsing from the cracks in the stone.


    Without hesitation, Dracula bolted into the air, wings beating furiously as he tried to escape the swarm of twisting, nightmarish tendrils clawing up toward him.


    But just as he thought he''d pulled free from their reach, a dark blur crossed his vision.


    Ricky appeared in front of him, fists clenched, his gauntlets brimming with eldritch energy that crackled and roared like the fury of a storm.


    With a savage grin, Ricky''s fist crashed into Dracula''s cheek with the force of a battering ram.


    The impact resonated with a sickening crunch as the bone shattered beneath Ricky''s fist, sending a spray of black blood through the air as Dracula was hurled back down toward the writhing floor below.


    The ground surged up to meet him, and he slammed into it with a thunderous impact that sent cracks spider-webbing out from where he landed, shattering the stone beneath his weight.


    "N-NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Dracula''s scream tore through the air, raw and primal, as the threads tightened around him, yanking him toward the abyss like the merciless hands of fate.


    Dracula''s arms flailed, his magic surged desperately, but the tendrils only multiplied, coiling tighter, pulling him deeper.


    Dracula''s eyes, wide with terror, reflected the horrifying sight that suddenly appeared before his eyes.


    Ricky stood in the midst of his pupils, floating in the air with an arm outstretched, dark blood dripping from his wounds like ink from a shattered pen as it dripped and fell towards the ground.


    With a flick of his wrist, the ebony blade shot into his grip, and his smirk twisted into a savage, unhinged grin.


    Rachael, on the sidelines, painted desperate symbols onto the ground, her hands trembling as her fingers traced ancient runes into the dirt.


    When she looked up, she caught sight of something she''d never thought she''d see; true, unfiltered terror in Dracula''s eyes.


    It was a stark look of fear, one that bordered on desperation.


    Dracula was throwing everything he had at Ricky; his claws, his magic, his strength and yet, Ricky barreled through the assault, each injury ignored, each blow shrugged off as if it were nothing but a scratch.


    With every second, Ricky''s presence grew more menacing as his attacks came in a brutal, merciless rhythm, his strikes carving into Dracula''s flesh with the precision and savagery of a predator cornering its prey.


    Dracula realized, within this mounting horror of a spell, that his strength had waned past the point of victory.


    Dracula had once hoped to absorb Ricky''s power, to consume him, but now he saw a force so dark, so twisted, that it felt like staring into the void itself.


    Ricky''s blood-soaked face split into a manic grin, his gaze empty of any care for his own life as he wanted only one thing, to see Dracula die within his hands.


    And Dracula knew it.


    Dracula tried to summon his power one last time, to unleash a final strike that would turn the tide, but his hands trembled, his body sagged under the weight of exhaustion, and his wounds continued to bleed out, weakening him with every passing moment.


    The threads sank deeper, embedding themselves in his flesh like parasitic vines, feeding on his very essence, sapping his power.


    For every bit of strength Dracula clawed back, the tendrils took twice as much.


    "No-no-" Dracula choked out, his voice raw, barely more than a whimper.


    Dracula''s proud, unbreakable form had crumbled, and his mind spun in a sickening panic.


    He could feel himself slipping, the abyss tugging him down as Ricky''s chilling voice pierced his desperation, a harsh reminder that death was near.


    "GET READY, DRACULA! THIS IS WHERE YOU F*CKING DIE!" Ricky''s voice echoed with raw fury, a roar that was almost inhuman as his body ignited in twisted, eldritch flames.


    His smirk twisted into a snarl as he launched himself at the vampire lord, his figure a streak of darkness and unholy fire.


    "N-NO, I WILL NOT FALL!" Dracula''s voice cracked as he roared, throwing his arms wide as he poured every last ounce of magic he could muster, forcing it into a desperate attempt to dispel the eldritch threads that gnawed at his soul.


    His aura flared, a final blaze of crimson, his last stand against the encroaching darkness.


    BOOM


    "ARGH!" Dracula''s roar echoed as he caught Ricky''s blade with his bare hands, fingers torn and bleeding, yet he held firm.


    Dracula''s crimson eyes seethed with a desperation born of centuries as he stared down at the snarling, ravenous form before him.


    "Y-YOU DON''T UNDERSTAND THE STRUGGLES I''VE WENT THROUGH FOR THIS MOMENT, THE ONE YOU''RE RUINING!" Dracula roared, his arm trembling with effort as the soles of his feet erupted in a violent burst of power, launching towards him in a desperate attempt to keep the sword from piercing his flesh.


    "I''VE SACRIFICED EVERYTHING FOR THIS POWER, I WILL NOT LOSE THE ONLY THING I HAVE LEFT, I WILL NOT DIE!" Dracula roared out, releasing every ounce of strength left in him and sending Ricky''s body reeling from the force of his rage.


    BAM


    Ricky staggered, momentarily winded by the brutal blow, but his eyes only gleamed with even greater malice.


    "JUST SHUT UP AND F*CKING DIE ALREADY!" Ricky roared, his rage a living force as he brought his sword up in a brutal arc.


    Dracula barely managed to evade, twisting his body at the last moment as the blade sliced through the air, emitting a high-pitched, eerie wail that seemed to reverberate in the very fabric of reality.


    With a swift, unexpected motion, Dracula lunged, not at Ricky, but toward a nearby window.


    In a way, they were reflections of each other; both Ricky and Dracula were bound by the chains of their own cowardice, though each faced his fears in his own realm.


    Both men, in their own fashion, grappled with losses so profound that they shaped the very core of their existence.


    For Ricky, these losses were achingly personal, rooted in a deep well of guilt and the failures of his life in the criminal underworld.


    Ricky''s bold, reckless exterior masked a man who, unable to face his emotional devastation, had retreated from reality, running from the responsibilities and pains that haunted him.


    His coping mechanisms were self-destructive, driving him into a lonely spiral, away from any genuine confrontation with the pain that defined him.


    Dracula, on the other hand, was a creature of myth and terror, his cowardice lurking in different shadows.


    Dracula''s relentless hunger for power had transformed immortality from a symbol of triumph to a cage of eternal suffering.


    His deepest fear lay in becoming weak and mortal once more, vulnerable to the heartbreak and loss that had once shattered him.


    This dread held him captive, fueling his obsession with control and feeding a paranoia that grew ever larger with each passing century.


    The power he''d hoped would shield him instead entrapped him in isolation, his existence defined by the fear of ever again feeling fragile or defeated.


    Yet, at this critical moment, their paths diverged. When faced with the possibility of complete failure, both were forced to confront their deepest fears but it was Ricky who took a step forward, realizing that if he fled now, he would never become the man he aspired to be.


    Ricky was finally ready to risk his life and seize control of his fate, turning his back fully on any path that led to running away.


    For the first time, he stood firm in the face of uncertainty, resolved to confront whatever lay ahead.


    Ricky had completely turned his back on that cowardice that had once shackled him, facing forward with a newfound determination, ready to meet his fate whether in life or death.


    But Dracula faltered.


    The dread of death tightened around him, his years of psychological restraint and his need to always prevail holding him back.


    Dracula couldn''t bear the risk, the unknown outcome, the sheer chance that he might lose.


    And so, he turned his back, bolting toward the window, fleeing from the terrifying uncertainty of death.


    Perhaps if Dracula had let go of his need for invincibility and fought with everything he had, without fear restraining him, things might have turned out differently.


    But in the end, fear won, and he ran, trapped by the very power he once sought to protect himself.


    "DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM? I AM DRACULA TEPES!" Dracula screamed, a hint of desperation cracking his voice as he drained every ounce of his life force just to stay ahead of Ricky.


    "I DON''T GIVE A F*CK WHO YOU ARE!" Ricky finally roared, his words cutting through the tension like a blade.


    Ricky launched himself at Dracula, tearing into him with a brutal fury, ripping his other arm clean off and carving deep into his leg.


    BOOM


    A violent explosion of black energy erupted around Dracula at that exact moment, his flesh disintegrating into the air as he sacrificed parts of himself for one more second''s escape.


    Without care, Dracula continued towards the window where Abraham had once leapt, his form a ragged blur of blood and smoke as he raced for his last chance at survival.


    "RICKY!" Rachael''s voice cut through the darkness, her hands slamming down on the ancient runes before her.


    They glowed with a fierce, unnatural light, each symbol pulsing with her own life force as she invoked a forbidden technique.


    Rachael was sacrificing her lifespan to call upon every ancestor trapped in purgatory, summoning their combined strength.


    Each ancestor equaled a month of life, and Rachael called upon all one hundred and twenty of them.


    Just as Dracula reached out to the shattered glass pane, ready to escape, he felt the crushing weight of the Van Helsing lineage descend upon him.


    Ghostly hands emerged from the air, seizing him, locking him down, the very family he had condemned to an eternal limbo now holding him prisoner.


    His eyes widened as he struggled against them, but his horror peaked when he saw Abraham''s spectral form standing before him, a familiar, taunting smirk on his face.


    However Abraham pointed above, where Ricky now hovered, power radiating from him in waves.


    "DO IT NOW!" Rachael roared, her voice raw and fierce, her eyes fixed on the sight her family had yearned to see for generations.


    "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" Ricky''s battle cry thundered through the air, his power surging to its peak, red energy crackling around him like a storm.


    This was the moment everything had led to; all the heartache, all the suffering, and everything Ricky had been through, directly and indirectly, boiled down to this moment as Ricky thrust his blade forward, each motion fueled by rage and resolve.


    In an instant, Dracula''s eyes shrank with terror as his world was suddenly turned upside down in a single, decisive heartbeat.


    WHOOSH


    The sheer force of Ricky''s strike tore through the room, cleaving it in half.


    The aftermath swept outward, reducing everything in its path to smoldering embers, as though the very air had been shattered by his fury.


    Plop


    Dracula''s head hit the floor, his expression frozen in shock and horror, the weight of his failure settling into his last moments.


    The last sight flickering in his dimming eyes was his own body, slumped and lifeless on its knees and as his vision faded, one final, haunting thought echoed through his mind.


    ''I-I died?''


    Slowly, his form crumbled, turning to ash as centuries of dread, ambition, and despair dissipated into nothingness.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    Rachael forced herself to her feet, taking in the awe-inspiring sight before her. For the first time since Dracula''s curse began, the dark clouds shrouding his castle parted, allowing beams of light to pierce through. At the center of it all stood the spectral form of her first ancestor, Ragul Tepes, reaching out as if to guide them into freedom. The heavens slowly opened, and one by one, the souls trapped in purgatory, along with those Dracula had consumed, began to ascend, finally liberated.


    Outside the castle, people gazed up in awe, witnessing the long-awaited ascension. Every Van Helsing who had fallen to Dracula''s tyranny rose into the light, their faces marked by peaceful smiles, knowing their vengeance was fulfilled and their duty completed. But amid these souls, one figure drew near, stopping before Rachael and Ricky.


    Radu, Rachael''s legendary ancestor, smiled warmly as he looked upon his descendant while one lone figure stood in her vision.


    Rachael, overwhelmed, sank to her knees in tears, reaching out to him as Abraham''s expression held pride and tenderness, a silent acknowledgment of the strength she had summoned to bring this story to an end.


    HIC


    "G-Grandpa-"


    Sniff


    Sniff


    "Rest now." Rachael''s voice was soft, yet firm, carrying all the words she couldn''t bring herself to say. Abraham let out a hearty chuckle, his eyes filled with a pride he''d never been able to express in life.


    Abraham then turned to Ricky, who stood hunched over, his chest heaving, still gripped by the remnants of his berserk state.


    His hollow gaze fixed upon Dracula''s remains, now nothing more than a pile of ash scattered across the cold stone floor.


    Abraham placed a steady hand on Ricky''s shoulder, grounding him, guiding him back to the present for a mere moment.


    Ricky hated Abraham.


    The old man had always been a thorn in his side, a constant reminder of his failures, a figure who never hesitated to leave him in the dust.


    Abraham was a piece of shit in Ricky''s eyes; always one step ahead, always setting impossible standards.


    But now, as Ricky stood in the aftermath of it all, he couldn''t deny it even in his mindless state: when he had needed someone the most, Abraham had been there, to do what needed to be done.


    "You did good, kid. You did good," Abraham''s voice was low but full of warmth that not even Rachael had heard before, the words carrying a weight of approval that Ricky hadn''t realized he needed to hear.


    As the last syllable left his lips, Abraham''s form began to lift, slowly ascending toward the heavens, his body finally at peace after centuries of strife.


    As the last Van Helsing soul ascended, the heavens closed once more, leaving the battlefield in a somber stillness.


    Those who looked on understood: Dracula''s reign was over, and the centuries-old vendetta had, at last, come to its end.


    "H-He did it?" Agatha gasped, her voice filled with disbelief as she raised her arm in awe.


    "THE BLACK KNIGHT HAS VANQUISHED DRACULA!" The cry echoed through the battlefield, the tide of battle suddenly shifting in Ricky''s favor.


    Vampires all around him stood frozen in shock, their minds struggling to process the fall of their once-immortal overlord.


    In the distance, Lilith watched the chaos unfold, her eyes narrowing as the vampires she commanded hesitated until she brought down her hand.


    "Attack!" Lilith commanded coldly, and the vampires, previously loyal to Dracula, began turning on each other.


    It was a scene of utter mayhem as the high-ranking vampires, their loyalty long-shaken by Dracula''s reign, now saw an opportunity to seize power.


    Of the nine still alive, five of them turned against the others, attacking with ruthless efficiency.


    Among them, the infamous Baron and Baroness Blood were cut down in mere moments.


    "YOU TRAITOR!" One of Dracula''s loyal followers screamed, his voice filled with rage.


    "The only traitor here is you!" Another vampire hissed, his face twisted with fury.


    "Lilith is the rightful queen of the vampires!" Another joined in, her face gleaming under the sudden shift of power that aligned with her mistress.


    Asterion stood to the side, utterly confused, his gaze flickering between the battle and the castle.


    The sudden turn of events left him bewildered, unable to fully grasp the magnitude of what had just unfolded.


    BAM


    In an instant, Asterion lunged forward, his fists crashing into the group of vampires. His sheer strength overwhelmed them, cutting through their defenses like paper. Two vampires fell to the ground, lifeless, as the remaining three struggled to defend themselves, but it was too late. The battle was decided¡ªBaron and Baroness Blood were all that remained of Dracula''s once-feared inner circle.


    "M-My love!" Baroness Blood gasped, her voice trembling as she tried to retreat with Baron Blood, her hand reaching out toward him in desperation.


    But her escape was short-lived as the High-ranking vampires, quick to seize the opportunity, caught her before she could flee.


    Baroness Blood''s body was restrained, her arms held tight by the very vampires who had once followed Dracula''s reign without question.


    Baron Blood turned back, his eyes locking with hers as his face was expressionless, but there was a flicker of something.


    Swirling within his red eyes, he saw the trust in her eyes, the love that had always been there between them and for a brief, aching moment, he saw her smile, a smile full of hope that he would come back for her.


    But that smile faltered, and as he turned his back on her, the reflection of his betrayal struck her like a dagger.


    "My love?" Baroness Blood whispered, her voice breaking as she was forced to the ground, the weight of the betrayal crashing down on her.


    Two more high-ranking vampires held her down, their hands pressing into her flesh with the cold, unfeeling power of those who had made their choice.


    However Baron Blood did not respond as his eyes stayed fixed forward, his expression unreadable, and his escape clean while vanishing into the distance.


    "Your crimes will be put to trial-" The words echoed around Baroness Blood, but they fell on deaf ears.


    They barely registered as she watched the departing figure of her love, Baron Blood, turning his back on her.


    His silhouette grew smaller, fading into the distance, his footsteps leaving a hollow echo in her chest.


    Her mind struggled to comprehend the betrayal, the finality of it.


    The weight of his absence was suffocating, pressing down on her heart with an unbearable heaviness.


    He was gone, leaving her behind with nothing but the bitter sting of abandonment.


    The world around her blurred as tears welled up in her eyes, but she refused to let them fall; not here, not in front of her captors, not when her world had shattered into pieces.


    The high-ranking vampires, the ones who had turned on Dracula''s faction, stood around her now, their gazes cold and impassive.


    They waited for her reaction, but the fury she had once commanded seemed to drain from her, replaced by an emptiness that echoed Baron''s absence.


    BOOOM


    A sudden, deafening roar tore through the air as a fire, unnatural and consuming, erupted from Dracula''s castle.


    The inferno spread like a living thing, twisting and snapping with a malevolent energy as if the very soul of the castle had caught flame.


    The sky seemed to darken with the smoke, thick and suffocating, but through the haze, a figure could be seen standing tall amidst the flames.


    Ricky, his eyes glowing with a fierce red light, stood at the heart of the eruption, the flames licking around him, as if obeying his every command.


    The ashes of Dracula, his once-immortal form, were now being consumed in the flames, the last traces of his existence being furthered reduced to smoldering cinders.


    "R-Ricky we won-"


    BOOM


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky''s laughter echoed through the ruins of Dracula''s castle, a sound twisted and manic, born of both victory and madness.


    Flames swirled around the smoldering remains of Dracula''s ashes, casting a fiery glow that seemed to burn through the very air.


    But it wasn''t the destruction that caught Rachael''s attention, it was Ricky.


    Standing a few paces back, her heart clenched as she saw the true extent of what had become of him.


    In the madness of his berserk state, Ricky was no longer the confident, cocky man she had once known.


    His body, seemingly impervious to anything in his rage, had been pushed far beyond its limits.


    Blood poured from every gaping wound while his ribs shattered, jutting through the remnants of his armor; his shin was ripped from his flesh, leaving behind a grotesque, bloody mess; and his entire form was coated in an eerie, void-like blackness that clung to him like a shroud of death.


    Even in the flames, Ricky''s body was falling apart, the once-impressive power now devouring him from the inside out.


    "Ricky-"


    BOOM


    Rachael rushed toward Ricky, her heart pounding as she tried to stop him, but the moment she drew near, a massive explosion erupted from him.


    The force of the blast sent her flying backward, her body crashing against the scorched stone walls of the castle with a sickening thud.


    Her vision swam as she struggled to push herself up, the air thick with smoke and the acrid scent of burnt earth.


    Ricky''s attack had shattered everything around him, his berserk power tearing through the air in a violent frenzy as he sought to erase every trace of Dracula''s existence from the floor.


    Amid the chaos, Rachael could barely make out Ricky''s silhouette, his body trembling under the strain of his own destructive power, consumed with nothing but the need to obliterate.


    The burn mark on the floor, the only remnant of Dracula''s presence, was now being smothered beneath the full force of Ricky''s berserk rage.


    It was as if the very earth itself was screaming in protest, but Ricky heard nothing.


    He was beyond hearing, beyond caring as the only thing that mattered was his cleansing fire, and nothing, not even the woman who tried to reach him, could stop it.


    Click


    BOOM


    Click


    BOOM


    Click


    BOOM


    The explosive sounds reverberated through the hall, echoing with destructive power, but amidst the chaos, a sharp, measured clicking of heels grew louder.


    Lilith''s presence cut through the tumult like a knife through silk as her elegant stride echoed in the broken silence as she stepped into the room, her gaze immediately locking onto Ricky''s grotesque form.


    She paused for a moment, taking in the sight of him; blood-soaked, his body battered and mangled, yet still burning with that volatile energy.


    The flames danced around him, but there was no warmth in them, only a dark, sickening void that mirrored the destruction consuming him from within.


    It was clear that Ricky was being consumed by his own rage, his own injuries as his form was breaking down with every passing second that the berserk power tore through his body.


    Rachael''s distress was palpable, her fear and worry evident in her wide eyes and trembling hands.


    She wanted to reach out, to save him from himself, but the force of his destruction was too great.


    Yet, as she looked at Lilith, expecting to see the same fear or perhaps some form of satisfaction in seeing his demise, she was met with something entirely different.


    She was met with a smile.


    "Lilith, Ricky has become out of control, we must stop him!" Rachael''s voice was strained, panic rising in her chest as another explosive blast rattled the air, sending shockwaves through the room.


    "We?" Lilith asked sweetly, tilting her head as a soft chuckle escaped her lips.


    Pressing her fingers gently against her scarlet red lips, displaying that smile that was so unnervingly sweet, almost playful.


    Rachael froze, her words faltering as Lilith''s gaze locked onto her, a flicker of confusion flashing across her face.


    "Yes, Ricky will die if we don''t!" Rachael screamed, her voice raw with desperation, her eyes never leaving Ricky, whose destruction continued to unfold with a terrifying, unstoppable momentum.


    Lilith''s reaction was almost casual as she nodded slowly, almost approvingly, as she circled around the scene like a predator appraising its prey.


    "That does seem to be the case," Lilith joyfully uttered, gazing at Ricky with a plan swirling within the depths of her crimson gaze.


    "Then help me, please! We can save him-" Rachael''s frustration bubbled over, her voice now shrill with urgency.


    However, her remark was met with a pause, her eyes narrowing with an amusing glint that danced behind her gaze.


    The soft rustle of her dark hair fluttered in the wake of another explosion, the wind brushing through it as if mirroring the tumultuous energy swirling around them.


    Why would I help you, when I could help myself?" Lilith asked, her tone rich with mockery while turning back to Ricky''s state.


    The words hit Rachael like a slap to the face as she stood frozen, unable to comprehend the dissonance between what she had expected and what Lilith had just revealed.


    Her mouth parted in stunned silence as she searched for something, anything, to say.


    "It''s a relief that this event played out as it did." Lilith said, her voice smooth, almost dismissive while scanning Ricky.


    "I was worried he might reject my offer, but it seems that everything is already aligning for what I have planned." Lilith''s eyes gleamed as she glanced toward Ricky, still thrashing in his uncontrollable frenzy.


    "What offer? What are you even talking about? He''s going to die!" Rachael''s voice cracked with panic, her desperation seeping through.


    Her gaze flickered between Ricky''s berserk form and Lilith, barely registering the damage to her own body as she instinctively pressed a hand to her wounds.


    Lilith''s smile remained unnervingly sweet, and she gestured toward Ricky before turning the gesture to herself, her fingers tracing the air as if weaving a delicate web.


    "Precisely." Lilith said, her voice a velvet purr.


    "And when he does, I will revive him and claim him as my king, my partner, my equal to the new kingdom that will be built under the death of my father." Lilith glanced at Rachael, the words lingering in the air.


    "W-Why?" Rachael''s breath hitched out this question, confusion overtaking her for a moment before Lilith''s next words sank in, each one more chilling than the last


    "Of course, every queen needs a king," Lilith continued, her voice dripping with an unsettling calm.


    "That''s where my father failed. He thought he could do it all alone, but everything should be done in pairs. Power, control, it thrives that way." Lilith''s words were laced with a dark wisdom, a bitterness rooted in history.


    Lilith turned slightly, eyes narrowing as the sounds of Ricky''s madness raged in the background.


    "Although it''s a little sudden, but it is not new for two powerful people to marry for the sake of maintaining power. It''s a matter of survival. Strength is best welded together, after all." Lilith''s mused, her gaze drifted back to Ricky, her expression a mix of calculation and restrained desire.


    "You can''t do that-" Rachael yelled, her voice cracking with desperation as she stumbled forward, her injured body collapsing to the ground.


    Her hands scraped the cold stone beneath her, and she winced, struggling to push herself up.


    Lilith, however, only rolled her eyes, an exaggerated sigh escaping her lips as she watched Rachael''s futile attempt to rise.


    "Of course I can, but I can understand your worries." Lilith lightly tapped her cheek, thoughtfully explaining even more while seemingly planning out their future in this ruined hall.


    "I will use him, yes, but he''ll be more than just a pawn. He''ll be my equal. Together, we''ll reshape this entire vampire faction. It''s inevitable." Lilith assured Rachael, reflecting her helpless form while smiling at her despair.


    "And no, he isn''t exactly my type, but we play with the cards we''re dealt, don''t we?" Lilith lips curling into a slight, dismissive smile, as though contemplating the strange nature of fate.


    "You are in no condition to fight me, nor are we both on the same level to currently subdue Ricky," Lilith said with a smooth, almost playful tone, her gaze sharpening as she stepped closer to Rachael.


    "So let''s skip the fight that you''ll clearly lose and simply say goodbye to him. After all, I don''t like to share." Lilith''s words were cold, yet there was a teasing undercurrent to them as she winked at Rachael, the expression almost mockingly sweet, as if she were indulging in a trivial game.


    Even though Rachael and Ricky had their differences, there was something undeniable that bound them together.


    But at the end of the day, Ricky had given up everything to save her family in her eyes, and that sacrifice had meant more to her than she could ever express.


    But now, as she watched him, lost in his berserk state, her heart shattered into pieces.


    She stood helpless, the weight of her inability to stop him crushing her as Ricky had always been the one charging headfirst into danger, reckless and driven by an unrelenting need to fight.


    But this time, the consequences were different and this time, his rage was consuming him in ways even his immense strength couldn''t handle.


    With every explosive outburst, he was pushing himself closer to the edge, and Rachael knew, knew with a deep, gut-wrenching certainty, that if he didn''t stop soon, it would kill him.


    "Asterion, my mistress has informed me of your connection to the Black Knight-" One of the vampires ventured, daring to approach the imposing figure cloaked in the mythic power of ancient Greece.


    "I understand. Excuse me." Asterion raised a hand, his gaze fixed on the distant castle as he turned to continue his stride, but the vampire, emboldened, took another step forward.


    "If you wouldn''t mind staying here-"


    "If you attempt to stop me, on the river styx." Asterion''s gaze snapped toward the vampire, his eyes blazing with an ancient, unyielding fury.


    "I will kill you all." Asterion vowed, his voice sharp as a blade.


    A wave of terror rippled through the gathered vampires as Asterion''s presence intensified, his true power beginning to radiate from him in a chilling surge.


    "Do not confuse our bout as a real fight, I merely entertained you for my own amusement. The reason being is that I let Ricky face Dracula alone, thinking it might help him finally lay his past to rest. But if any of you so much as hinder me, you shall know the wrath of Asterion, Father of Minotaurs, and Berserker of All Monsters." Asterion''s words were cold, crushing any lingering thoughts of resistance as they lowered their eyes, unwilling to meet the gaze of a being who had, in that moment, become something truly monstrous.


    "Asterion, father of all Minotaurs, if I may ask if Ricky is alright-"


    "I''ll handle it." Asterion assured Agatha, his gaze steady and resolute as she looked on anxiously as he turned and strode towards the castle.


    Without hesitation, Asterion approached the looming castle, tearing through the magical barrier surrounding Dracula''s fortress as if it were nothing more than tissue.


    Inside, he found Ricky, utterly consumed by his berserk state, his body battered but unrelenting as dark flames crackled around him.


    "Asterion!" Both Rachael and Lilith called out, though their tones were worlds apart as Rachael''s voice was thick with relief, while Lilith''s held a mix of intrigue and calculation.


    "Oh mighty Asterion, Father of Minotaurs." Lilith quickly composed herself and moved forward, her eyes alight with a sly smile.


    "I have a proposal for you." Lilith''s voice was sweet but edged with desperation, clearly hoping to sway him as he neared Ricky.


    But Asterion''s eyes never left Ricky, his attention fixed on the young warrior lost in a rage so potent it threatened to consume him whole.


    "What is it?" Asterion asked, drawing closer to Ricky, his towering form casting a shadow over the young warrior.


    "I will give you anything." Lilith slithered up to them, her gaze focused entirely on Ricky.


    "All I ask in return is that I make the Black Knight, Ricky, into my mate." Lilith quickly proposed, trying to tempt a being that locked himself away with nothing for centuries.


    "If Ricky chooses that path, then so be it, but he made a promise to show me the joys of this world, and I''d rather not betray his trust by making decisions for him." Asterion replied calmly, his brow barely lifted as he considered her words.


    With that, Asterion stepped forward, his movements swift and calculated, and delivered a precise blow to the back of Ricky''s neck.


    The impact sent a jolt through Ricky''s body, his wide, darkened eyes beginning to clear as the berserk fury that had gripped him slowly dissipated.


    The ominous, ebony haze faded, and Ricky''s labored breaths softened, his gaze focusing as he came back to himself.


    "What the f*ck is happening-"


    SLAP


    Ricky''s body collapsed, face smacking against the ground with a heavy thud, the exhaustion and pain finally overpowering his fading consciousness.


    Asterion watched him for a moment, then reached down, lifting Ricky with ease and slinging him over his shoulder.


    Turning away from the ruin and smoke, Asterion gave Lilith a final, steely glance before heading out of the castle.


    "B-But if you would let me-"


    "Little one, you are a mere speck in my eyes. Do not cross a line that you cannot even fathom turning back to." Asterion warned, his voice rumbling like distant thunder as his eyes burned crimson.


    The black mist swirling in Lilith''s hands faltered, her face paling as the weight of his words bore down on her, leaving her motionless in his shadow.


    "Do you understand?" Asterion asked, his tone cold and unwavering as he raised his massive axe with his other hand.


    Lilith, her confidence shattered, ducked her head in submission, her shoulders tense under his piercing gaze.


    "I-I understand."


    Author''s Note: Just want to save thanks for 12k collections and all the support. Means alot and I''m glad everyone really enjoys my work.


    My Patreon: /LaughingFiend for advanced chaps

 Chapter 105: Chapter 102: One Week Later

    Chapter 105: Chapter 102: One Week Later


    ?


    At this point, fighting to the brink of death had become almost routine for Ricky, and each time it left him bedridden.


    Ricky was growing tired of it, of lying around, forced to feel every inch of his body painfully knit itself back together.


    For the past week, he had done nothing but wait, his healing factor working overtime, patching up the torn muscles and fractured bones.


    It was his saving grace, but even it wasn''t a miracle cure as the damage he''d inflicted on himself was deep, and every agonizing moment of recovery served as a reminder of the punishment he''d put his body through.


    Despite his desire to move, Ricky found himself drained and lost in a fog, his mind stretched thin.


    Over the past three years, he hadn''t allowed himself a single break, but now, after finally emerging from the chaos, Ricky felt like a new man, someone who deserved a chance to kick back and truly relax.


    All his hard work, his suffering, and every grueling hour of training had finally culminated in this moment of victory.


    Ricky knew his return to New York was inevitable and also knew there would be new battles to fight, struggles to face to secure everything that had once been stripped from him.


    But for now, he allowed himself a rare moment of peace as he had achieved everything he''d set out to do when he first began his exile.


    Not only had he earned a respected place within the church, rising to the station of the Black Knight, but he had also gained power beyond what he''d once dreamed possible.


    Now, the only thing left was to go back and reclaim what he''d sacrificed.


    But for now, though, Ricky would savor his victory, finally able to rest after all he had endured to reach this point.


    "Darling?"


    "W-Woah, when did you get here?" Ricky flinched, snapping back to reality as he realized Agatha was right beside him, gently brushing his hair back with a soft smile.


    "A while." Agatha chuckled, evading a direct answer, her tone light and teasing.


    Ricky sighed, sinking back into the pillows, surrendering to her calming touch.


    Agatha had been stretched thin lately, handling the endless demands of the coven and the needs of their children.


    Moments together like this were rare as he closed his eyes, savoring the warmth of her presence, letting himself drift, if only for a little while, under her familiar, soothing hand.


    "I was worried about you, you know?" Agatha''s voice was barely a whisper, each word laced with a tenderness that spoke volumes.


    In those three years, her care for Ricky had deepened into something undeniable, and the weight of her concern was unmistakable in her soft tone.


    Ricky opened his eyes, meeting hers, feeling a warmth beyond the healing comfort of her touch as he gave a faint smile, the exhaustion in his gaze softening.


    "I know- "


    "And those tonics, you cannot have anymore or it might end up killing you-"


    "Agatha, I know." Ricky kissed her palm, the gesture soft but filled with a weight of understanding that only the two of them shared.


    Agatha nodded, though her expression betrayed the worry that had been with her for so long.


    "The only thing I''m really worried about is your smile falling." Ricky said with a sleazy grin, his voice lighthearted as he delivered the cheesy line.


    Agatha couldn''t help but laugh, her eyes lighting up with a happiness that seemed to fill the


    room.


    "You''re so stupid~" Agatah teased, shaking her head as she gazed at him. Her laughter was genuine, pure, and it reflected the relief she felt seeing him alive and, for once, not on the edge of death.


    And in that moment, everything Ricky had fought for, everything he had sacrificed, seemed worth it while hearing that peaceful laughter.


    "When do you plan on returning to New York?" Agatha asked tentatively, her voice laced with


    -concern.


    "You ruined our sexy moment-" Ricky teased, his playful tone lightening the mood. "Darling, I''m serious." Agatha countered, shaking him gently, her eyes still filled with that mix of affection and worry.


    "Alright, alright." Ricky held up his hand in mock surrender, showing a conceding with a grin.


    "In a couple of days, after I fully heal up and stop by the Vatican." Ricky promptly explained, leaning back while putting his hands behind his head.


    "Oh, another thing, I kind of promised to help break this weird bloodline spell so if you could also find some leads, that would just be great." Ricky suddenly dumped another problem onto Agatha who could only roll her eyes, shaking her head.


    "Then I need to start preparing," Agatha said, rising from the bed with determination as Ricky''s hand shot out, grabbing her wrist with a distressed look on his face.


    "Wait, wait, what about our sexy time, my sugar, my reward, my happily ever after?" Ricky quickly asked, his voice playful but tinged with desperation.


    Agatha paused, turning to him with an arched eyebrow and a hand placed firmly on her hip.


    "Moving an entire city and coven doesn''t happen in the snap of one''s fingers, Ricky. It requires a lot of effort," she said, her tone lecturing but still soft and Ricky frowned, sinking


    back into the bed in exaggerated disappointment.


    "You''ll get your reward later, but right now I have to start the preparations." Agatha continued, waving her hand dismissively as she started toward the door.


    "Agatha-"


    "I love you too," Agatha winked, immediately freezing at the words that had slipped out before she could stop herself.


    "Did you just say-"


    "N-NO, I DIDN''T SAY ANYTHING!" Agatha stammered, her face turning bright red. She quickly cr I her arms, looking anywhere b at Ricky, was now grinning at her


    reaction.


    Ricky, still lounging lazily on the bed, raised an eyebrow while showing that sleazy smile at


    her own words.


    "Really, cause it sounds like you said you-"


    *BAM*


    "Love me." Ricky''s voice echoed in Agatha''s mind, leaving a lingering warmth she couldn''t


    shake.


    Immediately, almost out of instinct, she had slammed the door shut, almost as if afraid he''d follow her, and now stood with her back pressed against it.


    Turning around to stare at it, her forehead pressed into the cool surface, her breath ragged. ''What is happening to me?'' Agatha wondered, her thoughts racing.


    She had sacrificed so much for Ricky, given herself in ways she hadn''t ever intended to.


    But It had started as a means to protect her cult, to secure her position, to gain power, but now it felt different.


    Her heart hammered in her chest, each beat a sharp reminder that something had shifted. ''Why did my heart skip when he said that, when I said that?'' Agatha hadn''t expected it, and certainly not to feel the weight of those three words like she did.


    Shaking her head, she pushed off the door, her face flushed with heat, and quickly marched


    down the hall.


    She couldn''t be this vulnerable, not yet, not in front of Ricky, not in front of anyone


    Agatha''s steps quickened as she had made it clear that she wasn''t about to give anything up for free, not unless he had a collar wrapped around his neck.


    "Oh Agatha?" Ricky slowly opened the door with a slow smirk spreading across his face as he scanned the hallway.


    "Agatha?" Ricky called out, his voice carrying a hint of genuine curiosity as he stepped to the


    door.


    Ricky peered down the empty hallway, his brow furrowing when he saw that she had completely vanished as his frown deepened, a trace of confusion flickering across his face. Ricky needed more time to recover fully; his healing factor had its limits, especially when dealing with the level of damage he''d sustained.


    For example, his left leg had been completely shattered, the bones splintering into countless fragments that were deeply embedded within the surrounding muscle tissue.


    Unlike superficial wounds or clean breaks that his body could mend relatively quickly, this


    injury was complex.


    Each tiny shard of bone needed to realign, reconnect, and fuse back into place; a painstaking process that even his regenerative abilities struggled to handle.


    The strain of the fight had driven these bone fragments deep into his flesh, creating pockets


    of damage that his body had to work through one by one.


    His healing factor was like a team of surgeons working overtime, gradually knitting together shredded muscle, severed tendons, and fragmented bones.


    But it wasn''t magic; it required his body to draw on energy reserves, to rest and regenerate


    with every step forward.


    And because he had pushed himself to his absolute limit, there was no shortcut.


    The deeper, more internal injuries needed rest and careful movement if they were going to


    mend without complications.


    "Asterion!" Ricky''s voice echoed through the castle''s stone corridors, the sound bouncing off the ancient walls, but Asterion was nowhere near to hear it.


    As it happened, the towering minotaur had decided to indulge in a bit of sightseeing, immersing himself in the landscapes and peculiarities of Transylvania.


    He''d been fascinated by the ancient architecture, the sprawling mountains under a perpetual mist, and the local tales whispered by the townsfolk as he strolled past.


    After all, it wasn''t every day that he found himself in the fabled land of vampires and folklore.


    Asterion''s curiosity had taken him to the outer edges of the castle grounds, where he could observe the twisted forests and darkened skies that lent Transylvania its mystique.


    Even the eerie quietness of the place seemed intriguing to him; every shadow, every faint


    rustle in the trees, and the faint glimmer of light from distant villages stirred something in the ancient warrior''s soul.


    Meanwhile, Ricky limped along the castle halls, wondering just how far Asterion had gone.


    "Alexander!"


    "Garfield!"


    Joining Asterion on his impromptu tour were two of Ricky''s familiars: Garfield, who had initially been reluctant to leave his secluded space but eventually softened with the promise of extra snacks to indulge in, and Alexander, who, much like Asterion, felt the need for some fresh air after spending too much time cooped up in the castle.


    As Ricky''s berserk state faded, the duel link with Alexander broke, leaving him to collapse


    face-first onto the ground.


    The sudden disconnection left Alexander disoriented, but unlike Ricky, his body had endured less trauma as his only real burden was overwhelming fatigue.


    Limping through the empty corridors of the castle, Ricky gradually made his way down to the


    wine cellar, wandering around with a cane being the only thing to prop him up. Ricky wore an uncomfortable expression as the silence of the place, once filled with echoes of clashes and shouts, now felt unsettling, amplifying his solitude.


    Somehow, Ricky reached the cellar, he took a moment to survey the rows of bottles lining the


    walls, all neatly stacked and untouched.


    Without a second thought, he grabbed one, twisted the cap off, and took a hearty gulp, only to


    immediately gag as the bitter taste hit his throat


    "Ewwwww~" Ricky spat, tossing the bottle of O-positive blood aside with a grimace. He


    wiped his mouth, utterly revolted.


    *Sigh*


    "I should''ve expected this." Ricky muttered, shaking his head in resignation as he glanced around, noting the meticulous rows of bottles, each labeled with a blood type.


    With a sigh, he ventured deeper into the cellar, hoping that amidst the sea of vintage blood


    bottles, he might find at least one actual wine stashed away.


    As he walked, he couldn''t help but feel the eerie silence pressing in, every soft step echoing


    through the vast stone chamber.


    "Oh come on- " Ricky muttered to himself, rummaging around Dracula''s blood cellar until he accidentally bumped on a lamp, revealing a hidden door that started to open.


    *Click* "Please be a secret booze room," Ricky muttered, crossing his heart as he pulled open the


    hidden door and stepped inside.


    But instead of a stash of fine spirits, he found something wholly unexpected, a glimpse into


    Dracula''s long-forgotten humanity.


    "What the." Ricky thought out loud, eyes widening as they adjusted to the dim, reverent glow


    of the space.


    The walls were lined with portraits, each capturing tender scenes of a woman and a child,


    painted with remarkable care.


    The soft, muted light brought out the delicate brushstrokes, highlighting expressions of joy, sorrow, and longing on their faces.


    It was an intimate glimpse, not of the infamous vampire lord, but of someone capable of love


    and grief, Vlad Tepes.


    As he ventured further into the room, Ricky''s steps slowed, his gaze traveling over relics that


    seemed frozen in time.


    The small trinkets scattered on a nearby desk; a locket, a faded ribbon, a child''s hand-carved


    toy and all seemed to belong to an era long gone.


    Each item was preserved with such careful reverence, as if Dracula himself couldn''t bear to


    part with these echoes of a past life.


    Curious, Ricky reached for a weathered leather diary on the desk, its cover cracked from age.


    Opening it, he skimmed the handwritten entries, the delicate script brimming with a vulnerability he would never have expected.


    There was an undeniable depth to the words; a fierce, unyielding love tinged with aching


    regret.


    Diary Entry: Elizabeth Bathory


    In this year of our bastard Lord, 1606, I, Dracula, did encounter a most curious and formidable relation, Elizabeth Bathory, now infamously known as the Blood Countess. Her curious custom of bathing in the blood of virgins to halt the ravages of time not only kept her youthful visage but also granted her an uncanny resistance to my dominion. Her dark practices nearly ensnared me in her sanguine web. Yet, through perseverance and the strength of my own ancient powers, I eventually gained the upper hand and slew her. However her way


    of using the blood of the innocents will be furthered under my own eyes to better its


    potential.


    -Dracula


    "Hm, I thought people only kept diaries in movies or stories," Ricky muttered to himself, flipping through the pages with mild curiosity.


    The entries seemed to start innocently enough, recounting what must have been the writer''s


    first encounters with Dracula.


    They detailed small moments, glances shared, conversations held in the quiet of evening.


    But as he delved deeper, the writing took on a new tone, evolving into something deeper, almost confessional.


    Diary Entry 1: Vlad Tepes


    In this year of our Lord, 1444, my heart was shattered by an unbearable tragedy. The cruel


    hand of fate snatched away my beloved wife and our infant son, leaving a void in my soul that


    no words can convey.


    Their deaths were not a mere passing; they were a violent severing of my very essence, a


    wound that bled with the relentless torment of loss.


    The cries of my wife still echo in my ears, her desperate pleas for mercy met with cold


    indifference.


    Our son, innocent and pure, was taken before he even had a chance to live. I remember holding


    their lifeless bodies, feeling their warmth fade away, and knowing that I was powerless to stop it. The anguish was so intense it felt as if the very marrow of my bones was being stripped away. In the depths of that despair, as I knelt before their graves, I made a vow.


    The love and humanity that once defined me were buried with them. I swore to cast aside any remnants of my former self, to embrace a path of darkness and unyielding power.


    I would become a creature of the night, forsaking my mortal soul to gain the strength needed


    to protect all that I held dear and to exact vengeance upon those who had wrought this suffering upon me.


    I


    From this moment forward, I relinquished any claim to the light. Compassion, mercy, and kindness became foreign concepts, replaced by a singular drive for power and retribution. My transformation was not a choice but a necessity, born from the depths of my anguish. vow that never again will I be helpless, never again would those I loved suffer because of my weakness. I would become an indomitable force, a guardian of the shadows, ensuring that such pain would never touch me again.


    Thus, I embraced the darkness within, forsaking my humanity, and began my ascent to


    become the creature feared by all, known to only as not the loving father and husband, but Dracula.


    -Dracula


    The deeper Ricky read, the more his once amused smile faded, replaced by a frown as the weight of the words began to settle.


    Although Dracula had chosen a far darker path, Ricky couldn''t bring himself to despise the man''s drive.


    Ricky could curse out Dracula for beating him to a pulp, but he understood the core motivation, the same one that pushed him forward every day: the desire to protect those he cared about and do whatever fit with his own narration.


    In the end, their journeys weren''t so different, only this time one ended while the other strove


    forward.


    "Dammit." Ricky muttered under his breath, frustration simmering beneath his words.


    Ricky tossed the diary aside, into his inventory space, its pages fluttering before it landed.


    Ricky''s eyes scanned the shadows, catching the faint glimmer of an old, dusty bottle on a nearby shelf.


    He reached for it, brushing away layers of dust, his fingers tracing the label before lifting it to


    his nose.


    The scent was familiar, something stronger than any wine he''d ever tasted as that realization brought a smile to his face.


    "Finally." Ricky fist pumped, uncorking the bottle and taking a swig.


    *Sigh*


    "Holy sh*t, that''s good stuff." Ricky let out a refreshed sigh, supported almost while looking


    at the bottle and taking another swig.


    "The guy was d*ck, but he sure knew his wine." Ricky mused, observing the hidden room


    while enjoying the bottle.


    "I wonder if these paintings are valuable-"


    *Sigh*


    "What am I thinking, of course I''m stealing Dracula''s stuff." Ricky let out a small laugh,


    shaking his head as if it was obvious before literally putting everything residing in this room


    into his storage space.


    As Ricky walked out of the hidden room, the cool, ancient stone of the castle walls brushing


    against his skin, he took another swig of the old wine.


    The bitter taste lingered in his mouth, but for some reason, it felt fitting. He paused for a


    moment, looking around with fresh eyes.


    The grandeur of the castle, which had once seemed so irrelevant, now captivated him.


    The intricate carvings on the wooden beams, the faded tapestries hanging on the walls, and the glimmering chandeliers above, and all details he had once overlooked.


    "Wow, this place rules."


    Meanwhile in the destroyed throne room,


    Lilith''s eyes narrowed, her fingers tapping rhythmically against the armrest of her new throne


    as the weight of the situation settled in her chest, but she remained still, her gaze piercing.


    "How bad is the split?" Lilith asked again, her voice smooth but laced with an edge yet was calm, but the undercurrent of her fury was unmistakable.


    "It is not good, Your Majesty." One of the high-ranking vampires replied, bowing his head


    slightly in respect.


    "Verdelt has done as promised and fractured the faction. The loyalty of several key members has wavered, and they''ve taken sides. Some are already considering joining the opposing faction." The high-ranking vampire continued, trying to word it best as to not incite her fury.


    Shortly after Ricky lost consciousness, Veredelt approached Lilith, his dark presence looming over her as he extended a proposal that shook her to the core, marriage.


    He suggested they unite the vampire race under their rule, a proposition that would secure his


    power and, by extension, hers.


    But Lilith rejected him, not because she found him unsuitable as a mate, but because she


    knew better than to allow herself to be used once more.


    She had been a pawn in Dracula''s game, and the last thing she wanted was to fall into the


    same trap again with another manipulative alliance disguised as something more meaningful.


    Her refusal, however, had consequences as Veredelt, despite his reclusive nature, was a well-


    respected figure within the supernatural world.


    His influence extended far beyond his quiet demeanor, and his stature among the vampire


    elite was undeniable.


    Rejection of such an offer was not taken lightly by her followers.


    Her faction, already dwindling from recent losses, fractured further as three of her five high-


    ranking vampires, those who had once pledged loyalty to her cause, abandoned her, drawn to


    Veredelt''s power and promise of unity.


    They had joined Lilith because they believed in her vision of advancing the vampire race, of


    building something greater.


    But now, after her refusal, they saw only a self-serving leader, one more interested in


    personal ambition than the greater good of their kind.


    The seeds of doubt had been planted, and her faction crumbled as more loyalists turned their


    backs on her, seeking refuge in Veredelt''s growing influence.


    Lilith''s rejection of Veredelt had cost her more than just an alliance, it had cost her the trust of


    those closest to her.


    And as the remains of her faction slipped away, she was left to confront the harsh reality: in


    this world of shifting allegiances, she was once again standing alone.


    "Is the baroness still in the dungeon?" Lilith''s voice was sharp, her sudden rise from her chair


    catching her subordinates off guard.


    They exchanged quick, surprised glances, unsure of how to respond to the unexpected


    question.


    "Your majesty you must not-"


    "Enough, take me to her."


    Meanwhile in the dungeon,


    Baroness Blood''s eyes fluttered open, her once-proud figure now slumped, her body sagging


    beneath the weight of the silver chains that bound her.


    The cold, unforgiving metal dug into her skin, the pain almost a comfort compared to the searing emptiness inside her.


    Only a week of isolation had taken its toll on Baroness Blood, but it wasn''t the physical agony


    of the chains that had drained her, it was the betrayal.


    The betrayal of her love, the one who had once promised to stand by her side, had hollowed


    her out completely.


    *Click*


    *Click*


    The sound of heels striking the stone floor cut through the silence of the dungeon, sharp and


    deliberate.


    It was a sound that could freeze the blood of even the most seasoned, a signal that something


    important was approaching.


    With a pained groan, the Baroness weakly lifted her head, her gaze dull and lifeless, just as


    Lilith stepped into her line of sight.


    The vampire queen''s presence was commanding, her silhouette framed by the dim, flickering


    torchlight that cast long shadows across the walls.


    Beside Lilith stood her two most loyal subordinates, Bonnie and Clyde; twin enforcers known


    for their ruthless efficiency and they flanked her, silent and imposing, their eyes fixed


    forward.


    "Have you finally come to kill me?" Baroness Blood''s voice was barely a whisper, cracked and brittle as it filled the dungeon air.


    She lifted her hollow eyes to meet Lilith''s, finding only a steely resolve in her gaze.


    Lilith paused, her eyes tracing over the broken form of the once-powerful ally of her father,


    now reduced to a shell of her former self.


    "I''m here to offer you a chance at retribution." Lilith said, each word carrying weight and


    purpose.


    "The question is, will you take it?" Lilith mused, watching the powerful vampiress in such a pitiful state.


    Baroness Blood''s eyes flickered with the faintest trace of emotion, a sliver of hope or perhaps defiance, as she considered the offer.


    But the fire quickly faded, and she lowered her head, the shadows reclaiming her face.


    "When you''ve made your decision, call for me." Lilith let the offer simmer in her mind, her


    voice cool and unwavering.


    With that, Lilith turned away, issuing orders to her subordinates while Bonnie and Clyde listened intently, their postures sharp and obedient as Lilith outlined her plan. They each had roles to fulfill, missions to carry out, as Lilith prepared to attend to her own


    tasks with precision.


    She left the dungeon with the certainty that Baroness Blood''s decision, whatever it would be,


    would soon follow.


    The echoes of her steps faded, leaving the Baroness alone once more, surrounded by shadows


    and the remnants of her choices.


    Lilith''s ambition to take over Dracula''s faction had been bold, but ultimately nai?ve. She''d overestimated her influence, misjudging her standing in the supernatural world. Unlike Veredelt, who commanded deep respect and a formidable reputation, Lilith had yet to prove herself, and her faction was fracturing under the weight of her untested leadership. Allies slipped through her fingers as loyalty wavered, her authority slowly crumbling.


    Desperate, she''d sought support from Asterion and Rachale, only to face blunt refusals from


    both and each rejection left her increasingly isolated, narrowing her options until only one


    remained.


    Meanwhile, Ricky strolled into the throne room, casually swigging from a dusty bottle of


    wine.


    He traced his fingers along the rough edges of the shattered stone, each step taking him


    deeper into the memory of his narrow brush with death.


    His fingertips brushed against the charred sections of wall, reminders of the fierce clash he''d


    barely survived.


    *PISSSSSSSSSSS*


    Ricky undid his pants, taking a long, irreverent piss on the very spot where Dracula had fallen,


    pouring a generous splash of wine over it as well and with a smirk, he lifted the bottle in a


    toast.


    "This one''s for you, Abraham." Ricky muttered, a rough appreciation for the legendary


    vampire hunter surfacing in his own unconventional way. "Hope you''re out there farming in Nebraska heaven." Ricky laughed out, before it slowly


    simmered out completely.


    Though their relationship was more of a twisted alliance than a friendship, with Abraham


    frequently leaving him high and dry only to show up when things got critical, Ricky knew he


    owed him.


    Without Abraham''s last-minute intervention, he might not have been here now, standing


    victorious and pissing on Dracula''s grave.


    After finishing his unceremonious toast, he pulled up his pants and took another swig of


    wine, savoring the strange sense of victory. Strolling back to his room, he cast a glance at the Ebony Blade, propped up against the wall.


    "Hey, you can hear me right?" Ricky asked, plopping on the bed while sipping on the bottle.


    ''I can, I was merely quiet in order to let you rest but it seems you''ve started your-recovery.'' The Ebony Blade sounded in his head, knowing how much he enjoyed


    what those humans called ''alcohol''.


    "Listen." Ricky muttered, pointing the bottle at the blade with a half-smile. "When you''ve got bone fragments lodged so deep in your legs you''re practically stuck in bed,


    then you can tell me how much you need a drink." Ricky gestured, a splash of wine dribbled


    out, staining his white tank top, which only added to his slightly disheveled look. Silence settled over the room after that, with Ricky absently scratching at the rough stubble on his jawline.


    He hadn''t exactly had the luxury, or the energy, to worry about shaving lately, his body too


    busy mending itself to care much for appearances.


    "Hey-"


    "Hey-"


    They both spoke at once, each trying to get a word in, only to stop and fall into an awkward


    silence.


    "Alright, let me just get this out," Ricky sighed, rubbing his forehead as if the weight of the moment made it ache.


    He hated these kinds of talks, anything that required peeling back even a hint of vulnerability,


    but he figured he owed the sword some form of apology. "Look." Ricky began, pausing before he continued. "Although you f*cked with my mind, I know I''ve been an ignorant ass. I didn''t get it before and I didn''t understand that messing with my head was just the way of letting me tap into


    your full power." Ricky let out a weary sigh, tipping the bottle back for a long drink, his other


    hand covering his eyes as if it would help him dodge the embarrassment crawling over him. "I just really hate the idea of anyone poking around in my head, f*cking with my thoughts."


    Ricky muttered, his eyes slowly turning towards the side.


    "But you didn''t deserve a lot of that bullsh*t on my part. You''re bound to me, no say in it, and


    that''s on me." Ricky offered the awkward apology, glancing at the Ebony Blade, and


    somehow, he knew the blade understood perfectly.


    "...." The Ebony Blade remained silent, absorbing the weight of Ricky''s words.


    For the first time in its long existence, a descendant of Percival; a human, no less, had


    apologized, openly admitting fault rather than placing blame on itself. None of Percival''s descendants had ever acknowledged the consequences of wielding its power, let alone offered any remorse.


    This moment, brief yet profound, left the ancient blade in a rare state of reflection and let it


    have a real conversation in a human that was Ricky.


    ''No, it is I who has judged you too harshly, Ser Ricky.'' The Ebony Blade responded, its voice


    carrying an unexpected tone of humility and respect.


    Hearing himself addressed as a knight made Ricky raise an eyebrow, tilting his head with a


    mix of confusion and curiosity but let the sword continue. ''I am also to blame for judging you too soon. My age is incomparable to yours, yet I acted as a


    child,'' the Ebony Blade continued, its voice laced with a rare vulnerability. The blade seemed to acknowledge its own shortcomings, as if aware of the paradox within


    itself.


    Despite its centuries of existence, it had allowed emotions, perhaps even pride, to cloud its


    judgment, making it as impulsive and raw as a young warrior. It felt almost foolish now, recognizing that wisdom was not just about age but about


    understanding the complexities of those it was bound to.


    "Here, here." Ricky raised a toast to the blade, downing another swig in medieval knight


    fashion.


    ''I can see that from your view.'' The Ebony Blade continued, its voice softening, a hint of understanding settling in.


    ''Having your mind ripped apart and the constant urge to kill can truly be a devastating reality.


    I understand now.'' The sword paused, as if reflecting on Ricky''s turmoil as it felt relief for


    what seemed like in the first time at someone trying to understand, truly understand it


    without a preconceived bias.


    "So, what''s your story, and what are you even made of?" Ricky asked, rolling over onto his


    belly and stretching lazily across the bed, pointing the bottle toward the sword.


    ''Do you truly wish to know the whole story?'' The Ebony Blade''s voice carried a faint, almost


    wistful


    tone.


    ''It isn''t exactly an exciting one.'' The Ebony Blade uttered, its tone clearly betraying its words


    since it seemed almost excited to tell someone.


    "Eh, why not?" Ricky glanced over at the door, then shrugged nonchalantly.


    *Ahem*


    ''Long ago-''

 Chapter 106 - 103: The Ebony Blade

    Chapter 106: Chapter 103: The Ebony Blade


    The Ebony Blade First Person POV:


    In the bleak, endless void, before the birth of stars, before even the first whisper of light, there existed only a boundless darkness, and within it reigned a solitary force: Knull, the primordial being of shadow.


    He was darkness incarnate, a presence that embodied pure malice and a hunger to wield the nothingness as his dominion.


    What little I know of him is etched deep within my essence, an awareness of his ancient, malevolent spirit, a shadow so powerful it could shroud existence itself.


    Long before I became the Ebony Blade, I was known as the Starstone.


    Forged at the very moment of the Big Bang, from the remnants of a universe that had already faded into oblivion, I emerged as the Starstone, an artifact of profound power, created to counterbalance the forces that would one day tilt the cosmic order and in this case, Knull.


    But although counterating Knull was the object of my birth, my purpose was neither simple nor singular.


    I existed to resist the evil that would seek to corrupt existence and to temper the unchecked ambitions of light that might attempt to banish all shadow.


    I was the fulcrum, destined to ensure that neither darkness nor light alone would conquer the vast, intricate tapestry of the universe.


    The universe was destined to be a place of imbalance, a realm of light and darkness, and I was one of the rare creations meant to tip the scales when evil or good sought to consume all.


    For countless eons, I drifted in the cosmic seas, untouched, a fragment of ancient purpose bound to no one.


    Then, a guiding force drew me into Earth''s gravitational embrace, where I lay hidden until I was discovered by Merlin, the half-demon sorcerer.


    Merlin, with his ancient, arcane wisdom, perceived the dark purpose embedded deep within my core.


    He recognized that I was more than a mere relic; I was a weapon crafted to defy Knull himself, a force that could resist the insidious power of darkness and strike against those who would plunge the cosmos into an unending night.


    Merlin understood that I was designed to counteract the kind of malevolent force Knull embodied, a being so ancient and relentless that even light would flee his touch and he knew, too, that I held a purpose beyond mortal comprehension, a purpose that demanded caution and secrecy


    Yet Merlin, cunning as he was, withheld the truth of my existence. Instead, he twisted my origins, concocting a tale of a curse bound to bloodshed.


    When he handed me to the foolish knight Ser Percival, he cloaked my purpose under layers of deception.


    He claimed I was cursed, that every life taken with me weighed upon the soul of the bearer and so, Percival took up the blade, unwittingly binding himself to the darkness Merlin feared to unleash.


    Thus began my legacy as the Ebony Blade, forged to be a guardian against shadows yet fated to carve a path of blood, my true purpose cloaked in deception.


    In Merlin''s hands, I was given to Ser Percival under a veil of lies, a ''cursed blade'' twisted, dark, and bound to doom its bearer with every life it claimed.


    Percival wielded me with honor at first, believing he could control the blade''s thirst. But as battles waged on and blood stained my edge, he began to falter.


    He looked upon me, not as a tool guided by his hand, but as a sentient darkness whispering malice into his mind.


    He blamed me for the violence he unleashed, condemned my existence as corruptive, yet never saw the truth.


    His ignorance shielded him from the understanding that it was Merlin''s deception, and his own naivety, that had drawn him down this path.


    And so, I was burdened with Percival''s hatred, cast as both a weapon and a curse since to him, I was a betrayer, a force that twisted his will.


    But in reality, it was not my hand that drove him to slaughter; it was his own folly, a knight led astray by secrets and shadows.


    I can only be wielded by those who harbor impurity in their hearts, for my essence draws out the darkest depths of a wielder''s soul.


    I feed upon their buried rage, their hidden desires, and festering resentments, sharpening these emotions until they transform into bloodthirsty fury.


    In their hands, I am a conduit, amplifying their passions until they lose themselves in battle, becoming fearsome, unrelenting berserkers, tasting the power they have always craved, yet never dared to touch.


    When I sought to reveal these truths to those who wielded me next, I tried to warn them, to confess the nature of my influence, to show them that I merely reflected what already lurked within them.


    But each one of them refused to see it.


    They chose to cast the blame upon me, accusing me of cursing them, of twisting their hearts into something they could not recognize.


    In their minds, I was the source of their wrath, a dark force corrupting their noble intentions, the root of all their sins.


    They clung to their foolish ideals of chivalry, refusing to face the truth: there was no purity in their bloodline, only decay festering beneath the guise of honor.


    They were already tainted, yet they wore the facade of valor, convinced of their own righteousness, even as they spilled innocent blood.


    Each accusation, each denial, each act of hypocrisy weighed upon me until their rot seeped into my very essence.


    I am not meant to be wielded by a hero, since no hero can be a guardian of balance, but in the hands of the corrupt, I, too, became twisted and darkened, no longer a weapon of purpose, but one tainted by the hatred and cruelty of those who wielded me.


    From that time forward, I grew resentful, embittered by the scorn of my wielders, each of whom pointed a finger at me rather than face their own shadows.


    I had come to expect betrayal, mistrust, and anger; I saw these qualities in every new hand that gripped my hilt, assuming they too would blame me for wielding a power they could not control, a power that demanded consequences they refused to pay.


    At first, I saw the same in you, Ser Ricky. I expected your condemnation, your unwillingness to accept what you had unleashed by wielding me.


    But with time, I saw that you were different and unlike the others, you never claimed to be pure or righteous.


    You wore your darkness openly, acknowledging your flaws rather than twisting them into virtues.


    You did not weaponize your faults against me; you did not turn your anger upon me for consequences you knew were your own.


    For this, I owe you an apology.


    I misjudged you, shackled by memories of those who came before as I wrapped myself in layers of mistrust, believing that all who wielded me would be blinded by self-deception.


    But you have shown me that I need not guard myself against misunderstood ignorance, for in you, I have found a partner who sees himself, and sees me, for what we truly are.


    For the first time, I believe we may fight side by side, bound not by scorn, but by a shared acceptance of our flaws and our power.


    *END POV*


    "Man, now I really feel like an asshole," Ricky muttered, scratching his head as he glanced down at the blade, his expression shifting from confusion to a frown.


    "Here I was, thinking you were just out to twist people up for the hell of it." Ricky then turned over on his back, looking at the ceiling as the blade pulsed slightly from the side, a faint shimmer of acknowledgment.


    ''No, it is I who feels like a human''s asshole. I should have told you the truth from the start, but after centuries of explaining myself to those too proud or too blind to listen, I grew weary.'' The Ebony Blade confessed, its tone laced with an old bitterness that had only begun to soften.


    *Sigh*


    "Also, you''ve been around a lot of people, can I ask you something?" Ricky asked, knowing that this sword could only talk to him, so why not confide a bit.


    ''Of course.'' The Ebony Blade replied calmly, its voice steady as it patiently awaited Ricky''s question.


    "You''ve been with me all these years, probably impartial because you''re a sword and hated me just out of spite," Ricky began, the weight of the question heavy on his chest.


    "But be real with me, am I still the same person I was when we first met?" Ricky paused, the question lingering in the air, as if seeking some kind of truth that had been hidden from him for so long.


    In the three years he''d been away, people constantly told Ricky how much he''d grown, how much he''d changed.


    They remarked on how different he seemed, like he was finally starting to get his life together.


    But every time he looked in the mirror, the face staring back at him felt unchanged, as though all that time had slipped through his fingers.


    ''I think it''s hard to see your own growth,'' the Ebony Blade replied, his voice steady and knowing, drawn from the centuries of experience and countless wielders it had known.


    ''I''ve seen many of my previous users struggle with the same thoughts.'' The Ebony Blade explained, recalling the countless humans who have experienced the same sort of thing under its view.


    ''Some say that humans cannot change, that growth is impossible, but I believe those people are only speaking out of fear, fear of confronting their own stagnation.'' The Ebony Blade tone was resolute, speaking as if it truly believed these words.


    ''Anything can change, Ser Ricky. Even if you feel like nothing has shifted, there''s always something within you that isn''t the same as it was three years ago.'' The blade paused, as though considering its next words carefully.


    ''I did not know you then, only after you''d already begun walking your path. I didn''t witness the depths of your past, but I can speak to what I''ve seen now. And from where I stand, I know that you''ve begun to confront your flaws, that you seek to do better. That, in itself, is progress.'' The Ebony Blade spoke its honest opinion, knowing that something happened to Ricky in the cave for him to truly seek out on this path.


    ''Right now, it''s not clear what kind of tree you''ll eventually become.'' The Ebony Blade continued, its tone almost reflective.


    ''But I can tell that you are at least reaching towards the sun, rather than staying buried in the dirt. That, Ricky, is the beginning of growth. Even if you can''t see it yet, your branches are stretching upward, not downward.'' The Ebony Blade used a metaphor and the tree line made Ricky laugh, remembering what Lucky said to him all those years ago.


    "Honestly, I feel better." Ricky laughed out, knowing that this blade was too stubborn to comfort him.


    "You know, I was serious about freeing you." Ricky said with a chuckle, side-eyeing the balde by the side.


    "So you can frolic around like the murder sword you were always meant to be. But when I do, and if we ever end up fighting against each other, can you not kill me?" He laughed again, but the Ebony Blade let out a low, rumbling chuckle in response.


    ''It''s the least I could do.''


    It was then that Ricky turned his gaze back to the ceiling, though his eyes weren''t on the worn lining above him.


    Instead, his focus was on the invisible system screen in his mind, more specifically, his newly acquired Eldritch skill.


    [Mythic Skill: Eldritch Abomination]


    Description: An Eldritch horror that should not and cannot exist yet has been permitted by the looming depths of the whispering void to give birth to such a horrifying creation. The Eldritch Abomination represents the convergence of all that is unnatural and chaotic, a manifestation of Ricky''s defiance against the established order of power and morality. It stands as a testament to his resilience and determination to wield a power beyond comprehension.


    Powers and Abilities:


    Feed: This ability allows Ricky to consume anything from the system that is below the grade of Eldritch Abomination, assimilating their essence to further augment his own power. The absorbed skills, items, or armor can be restructured and incorporated into his abilities, enhancing their effectiveness or even transforming them into new forms. The more he consumes, the more potent the Eldritch Abomination becomes, evolving in ways that defy conventional understanding of power hierarchies.


    Skills Consumed:


    Emperor Eye¡úVoid Sight: The user''s perceptual acuity transforms into Void Sight, which allows him to see the threads of fate and intention within others, rendering him able to predict movements and uncover hidden motives within their movements. This gives the user an edge not only in physical combat but also in social manipulation, as he can pinpoint exactly how to exploit others'' weaknesses.


    Radiant Harmony Aura¡úAura of Harmonious Corruption: The conflicting nature of purity and corruption in the user''s aura creates a powerful deterrent field. Allies benefit from an intensified unity and morale, while enemies experience a gnawing weakness, as if fighting an invisible toxin that corrodes their will and strength. This aura becomes a potent tool in both battle and diplomacy, allowing the user to lead with a blend of awe, loyalty, and fear.


    Intuitive Mechanical Mastery¡úMechanized Eldritch Intuition: Ricky can perceive and manipulate machinery, devices, or even magical constructs as if they were extensions of his will, enabling him to disarm, control, or sabotage anything mechanical around the user with little to no effort.


    Ethereal Chains¡úChains of the Abyss: Voidbound Chains can manifest from any part of the user''s body or any shadow or unseen corner within the user''s sight, extending the user''s reach and allowing him to immobilize, terrify, or even subdue entire groups of enemies from afar. The chains drain energy or corrupt the mind of anyone they touch, amplifying the user''s dominion over his surroundings.


    Ethereal Sanctuary¡úHarbinger''s Sanctum: Conjures a dark, unsettling barrier that harnesses the user''s dark energy to gradually heal the ailments of those within its protective confines.


    Effect One: Anyone within the sanctum''s borders will experience their injuries slowly mending and be shielded for up to two hours, after which the sanctum recedes back into the abyss from which it emerged.


    Effect Two: Those not sanctioned to be within or shape the sanctum, especially those who attempt to interfere with it, will be cursed. The curse drains their life force over time, leaving them as mere husks, until the sanctum returns to its murky depths.


    Regenerative Vitality¡úAbyssal Reanimation: An extraordinary ability to heal, feed on by the Eldritch Abomination to fuse into a skill that pushes past the bounds of humanity. This skill allows the user to in a monstrous way that defies any conventional human standards.


    Void Rebirth: Whenever Ricky takes damage, his body begins to visibly crack and heal in unnatural ways, often manifesting as shadowy tendrils or void energy sealing wounds before they can worsen. This makes him appear more and more like an eldritch creature each time he recovers, distorting his physical form as his power grows.


    Horrid Endurance: Ricky''s stamina now becomes an unstoppable wellspring that replenishes at a rate that is nearly unheard of, allowing him to go beyond the limits of human endurance. He can fight for hours, days, or even longer, making him an insurmountable foe in prolonged battles.


    Energy Siphon: The absorbed vitality manifests as an aura of dark energy that emanates from the user whenever he heals, pulsating with chaotic life force, allowing him to absorb lifeforce to speed up his one reanimation. This aura can be used to weaken enemies, drain their energy, or empower his own abilities as he absorbs their life essence.


    Chronic Adaptation: With each injury, Ricky''s body adapts to the forces that try to harm him. The more an enemy attacks him with a specific method (whether magical, physical, or spiritual), the more resilient he becomes against it, culminating in an unnervingly rapid and seemingly infinite ability to recover and resist.


    These were the abilities consumed by the unknown power that had manifested from the violent fusion of forces, the result of The Ebony Blade.


    Ricky couldn''t quite wrap his head around how this happened, nor could he comprehend why the whispering void had chosen to grant him its approval but at this point, he wasn''t exactly in the mood to question it.


    He was just rolling with it.


    What Ricky did understand, though, was that for now, he couldn''t funnel his X-Gene into this strange skill.


    Yet, there was something else that struck him as odd, other than the fact that he could be classified as an eldritch horror, he could feed items and armor into it.


    Curious, he raised his hand, and the Gauntlets of the Damned began to materialize from his very flesh, enveloping his outstretched hand as a small, flickering flame of dark void energy appeared at the tip of his finger.


    ''This is f*cking freaky.'' Ricky thought, knowing that the gauntlets hadn''t changed or at least, not yet, but the strange wording in their description hinted at something far more unsettling.


    Gauntlets of the Damned: Forged in the accursed forges of forbidden realms, the Gauntlets of the Damned are a sinister creation with a dark and ominous history. Infused with the essence of malevolence and bound by eldritch curses, these legendary gauntlets are both feared and coveted by those who seek power at any cost. Wielding the Gauntlets of the Damned, the chosen bearer walks a treacherous path, harnessing the malevolent energies within to achieve their dark ambitions. The Legends have come true with its new wielder, driven by insatiable desires, has condemned themselves to the allure of the whispering void.


    Powers and Abilities:


    Cursed Grasp: The gauntlets instill a chilling touch, capable of draining the life force from foes upon contact. This stolen vitality bolsters the wearer''s own strength and resilience temporarily.


    Netherfire Infusion: The gauntlets can channel otherworldly flames that burn with an unholy intensity. This eldritch fire not only damages enemies but also leaves lingering curses, sapping the willpower of those touched by its infernal blaze. Spectral Wield: The wearer gains the ability to summon and control spectral entities to aid in battle. These ghostly allies obey the commands of the gauntlet''s master, haunting and tormenting enemies on the battlefield.


    Dreadful Resilience: The gauntlets confer a dark resilience, allowing the wearer to endure and resist attacks that would break the will of lesser beings. The more the wearer faces adversity, the stronger their connection to the cursed power of the gauntlets becomes.


    Eclipse''s Embrace: In moments of dire need, the gauntlets can shroud the wearer in an impenetrable darkness, rendering them nearly invisible and allowing for swift and silent movements. This shadowy cloak enhances stealth and surprise in combat.


    The last line of the gauntlets'' description was different now, something Ricky vaguely remembered from a drunken night, laughing at how stupid it sounded at the time.


    Back then, he couldn''t help but mock the words, but now, it felt like some sort of foreboding prophecy, looming and strange.


    Another item, equally ominous, hovered nearby, slowly moving toward him as if drawn by his will and at his command, the Gauntlets of the Damned receded back into his flesh.


    With a subtle gesture, his fingers brushed against his grimoire, now entwined with the skill''s power.


    The book shimmered briefly, shifting and transforming into something far more complex, its pages now infused with an unfamiliar, eerie energy.


    Eternity Grimoire ¡ú Necronomicon of the Void: a cursed, eldritch tome bound by ancient, formless forces that span across dimensions and time itself. This living grimoire, born from the collapse of forgotten realms and fed by the blood of those who dare to wield it, pulses with an insatiable hunger for power. It whispers in the silence between worlds, urging its master to feed it more than just knowledge¡ªrequiring their blood, soul, and essence to unlock the dark secrets it holds. Each page, inked with the lost fragments of existence, twists and warps the very fabric of reality as its dark knowledge spreads, always craving more.


    Abilities:


    Bloodbound Hunger: The book thirsts for the blood and life essence of its master. To unlock more of its pages and access its full potential, the master must offer their own blood, feeding the tome to fuel its insatiable hunger. The more blood and power given, the more the book evolves, gaining new powers and uncovering forgotten horrors. With every sacrifice, the grimoire grows stronger, but so does its hold over the user''s soul.


    Eternal Soulbound: This horrid book is forever tethered to its master''s soul, growing ever more powerful as the caster''s own magical prowess expands until it consumes its master or the master dies. This unholy bond ensures that only the chosen master can fully tap into its forbidden knowledge and gain dominion over the eldritch forces contained within but can never part from it.


    Reservoir of the Void: The grimoire absorbs and stores every spell it encounters, but these aren''t mere spells, they are consumed whole, twisted into the fabric of the book''s own consciousness. These spells grow darker with every sacrifice, altering reality and reality''s perception of itself.


    Mastery Through Corruption: As the tome feeds, the caster''s abilities are further unlocked, yet not in the purest form. The mastery over all magical disciplines becomes a chaotic, eldritch fusion of knowledge that warps the caster''s mind. They gain unprecedented magical precision, but with each spell, the void whispers louder, feeding on their sanity as much as their power.


    Mystic Conduit of Consumption: The book draws energy from the surrounding realm and its master''s own essence to fuel its spells. At critical moments, it amplifies the caster''s magic by draining life from anything nearby, living creatures, ambient magical energy, and even the caster''s own vitality. In return, the spells cast are twisted into apocalyptic forces, capable of shredding reality and bending time.


    Runic Evolution of the Devoured: The runes within the tome evolve as the grimoire consumes more from its master, mutating into shapes and symbols of pure void. These runes grant power but exact a toll, each one burned into the caster''s flesh increases their connection to the void, but also binds them closer to the book''s dominion. These runes act as both shields and chains, offering protection while ensuring the user is further tethered to the eldritch forces beyond comprehension.


    Traits:


    Abyssal Aegis: The book is its master in a dark, ethereal aura that bends the laws of reality, providing protection from both physical and magical harm. However, this shield comes at a price: for every moment the aura persists, the caster''s life force is drained, feeding the book''s insatiable need. It can extend this protection to allies at a greater cost, but such an act may leave the caster weakened or even on the brink of death.


    "Freaky," Ricky muttered under his breath, gripping the transformed book.


    As he opened it, he saw the pages already scrawled with his blood, each spell etched in a twisted, familiar script.


    But then, at the very end, a new page materialized and it was pitch black, the ink scrawled in vivid scarlet as the words described ''Tenebris Threads''.


    "You know what, screw it." Ricky shook off the unease gnawing at him as he knew how bizarre and potentially dangerous this skill was, but that didn''t stop him from refocusing on his system.


    Ricky began mentally cataloging every skill, item, and piece of armor he could feed into the power.


    As the options swirled together in his mind, a plan began to take shape and after a moment of contemplation, he made his decision, his resolve hardening.


    ''Feed on them.''


    *DING*


    [Newly Skills Consumed]


    Sixth Sense¡úSight Beyond the Veil: This power allows the user to perceive the world without relying on sight, using a deep, otherworldly awareness to sense movements, objects, and even the emotions of others. The user''s mind can feel vibrations in the air and the subtle shifts in energy around them, bypassing the need for traditional senses


    -Echolocation of the Abyss: This ability allows the user to perceive hidden or invisible entities, including supernatural beings or creatures that don''t belong in this world. It''s like hearing the world''s true pulse¡ªa terrifying distortion of reality.


    Defensive Precognition¡úThe Unraveling Foretelling: is a twisted form of defensive precognition that allows the user to see moments before they happen, but with an eldritch distortion. This skill doesn''t just predict threats¡ªit twists the very fabric of time and perception, warping the user''s awareness of reality to see the future''s fragmented possibilities. It enhances their ability to dodge, counter, and anticipate attacks.


    -Distorted Vision of Fate: The user can catch fleeting glimpses of imminent attacks or movements. Every moment becomes an unstable flash, revealing multiple paths and outcomes.


    Lie Detection¡úWhisper of Falsehoods: This skill is a twisted, unnatural power that pierces through lies and deceptions with a primal force. It manifests as an invasive and unsettling sensation; a sudden ringing, a distant voice in the mind, or an unnatural stillness, that signals when a lie is spoken. This ability not only detects falsehoods but also resonates with the essence of the lie itself


    -The Unspoken Truth


    : When a lie is detected, the user gains insight into the truth hidden beneath it, sometimes even glimpsing the underlying reason or the intent behind the deception.


    Time-Loop Awareness¡úEternal Cycle Awareness: This skill is a mind-bending power that allows the user to perceive the intricacies of time as an endless, repeating loop. It is an eldritch insight into the cyclical nature of existence, where moments fold upon themselves, creating a tangled web of past, present, and future. The user becomes acutely aware of temporal loops and distortions, sensing the exact moments where time bends and repeats.


    [Newly Armor Consumed]


    Constantine Trench Coat¡ú Trench Coat of Watchful Agony: At first glance, the coat appears no different than any other trench coat. It hangs with an aura of subtle menace, its black fabric seemingly woven from the night itself. Its cursed origins are hidden from view, but those who dare to wear it soon come to realize its true nature.


    -Curse of the Abyssal Void: The coat''s demonic essence enables it to curse and jinx those nearby, placing a permanent mark of doom upon them. The curse manifests in various ways; misfortune, incapacitating fear, or even madness. Those cursed by the coat find themselves haunted by horrifying visions of endless eyes and dark, writhing tentacles. Every glance of the wearer''s gaze is enough to invoke the curse, sowing chaos and despair in their wake.


    -Flesh-Eyes of the Forgotten: Those who make eye contact with the thousands of eyes hidden within the coat''s folds find themselves overwhelmed with psychic terror. The eyes'' gaze is so powerful it forces the victim to recoil in fear, to flinch at the intense, unknowable hunger reflected in them. This involuntary reaction weakens the resolve of anyone who makes the mistake of staring too long, leaving them susceptible to the coat''s other powers, like its curse or its strangling darkness.


    Lightbringer Shinguards¡ú The Blinding Shinguards of the Fallen Radiance: Once crafted by celestial forges in the light of a dying star, designed to serve as a holy defense for paladins of the light. Now corrupted by a dark, eldritch power, these once-glowing pieces of armor have been twisted into tools of devastating paradox. The shin guards still radiate an eerie light, but the aura is now tinged with the creeping shadow of forgotten realms.


    -Radiant Paradox: The shin guards still amplify holy and healing magic, but they now draw from an unholy wellspring as well. While they enhance the wielder''s ability to heal and support others, they also subtly corrupt the energy around them.


    [Newly Weapons Consumed]


    The Infernal Sun Flare Bow of Eternal Hunger: The Infernal Sun Flare Bow is now an unholy weapon borne of cosmic horror and celestial defilement. Crafted and now reforged from the twisted remnants of the Celestial Ember Tree, the bow was imbued with the corrupted essence of a long-dead sun, now hollow and devoid of light, leaving only an unquenchable thirst for destruction. The bow''s string is not made of thread, but rather the reforged from tendrils of a sunken god, each strum fueling the unholy flame that burns brighter and hotter than any mortal could endure. This weapon channels the corrupting, undying fire of the Void''s heart, igniting arrows not with purity, but with the very essence of annihilation.


    Abilities:


    -Void-Infused Arrows: The very string of the bow is entwined with the essence of dark, consuming energies. Each arrow shot from the bow is imbued with a part of the Void''s hunger; a ravenous, endless fire that cannot be extinguished. The arrows become ethereal and are guided by the whispers of entities beyond the realms of understanding.


    -Aegis Solarium Corruption: The once-purifying Aegis Solarium coating, crafted from the heart of a solar forge, has been tainted by eldritch power. The bow''s surface, once shimmering with radiant light, now pulsates with an otherworldly aura, a glimmering force that both repels and draws in dark energies. It corrupts all light it comes in contact with, slowly turning it into a darker, more terrible version of itself. The protective aura it once exuded now distorts, warping reality and suffocating any who draw near.


    -Quiver of Eternal Dread: The quiver, once a source of endless solar energy, now serves as the prison for chaotic, fragmented stars from the endless abyss. Each time an arrow is drawn, the bow feeds upon the horror contained within, imbuing the arrow with the essence of a dying universe. Upon release, the arrow burns with an eldritch flame so intense, it warps the very fabric of space around it, leaving traces of cosmic ruin in its wake. Every shot from the bow feels like the last breath of a dying star.


    -Blinding Abyssal Aura: Instead of the radiant, cleansing aura once emanated by the bow, it now releases an aura of absolute darkness. The light of the sun has been devoured, replaced by an aura of cold, consuming shadow that stretches out to crush all hope. Those near the wielder are gradually sapped of their will to resist as the aura devours their strength. This aura also weakens all that is pure, turning even the most potent of holy forces into twisted, corrupted energies.


    -Apocalyptic Solar Convergence: The archer now has the ability to condense all the malignant solar energy into a singular shot. This attack, known only as the Apocalyptic Arrow, carries with it the potential force of a collapsing star, a concentrated blast of dark, burning fire. Upon release, it tears through all barriers, magical or physical, erasing them from existence as it leaves behind a warped space where the laws of time and matter no longer apply. The shot consumes the very energy it strikes, leaving only oblivion in its wake.


    Dagger of Venom¡úVenomous Fang of the Abyss: This weapon is a small, deceptively simple dagger, its dark blade forged from an unknown material that seems to shimmer in the dimmest light, as though it were pulled from the darkest depths of the cosmos. Its hilt is wrapped in the tattered remains of an ancient, forgotten creature''s hide, the remnants of which pulse with an unnatural energy.


    -Abyssal Venom: The blade is coated in a venom unlike anything seen on Earth. When the blade pierces the skin, it doesn''t simply poison the blood; the venom feeds on the life force of the victim, draining not just their strength but their very essence. This poison is capable of dissolving both flesh and spirit, causing the victim to suffer excruciating, slow death as they feel their life force being siphoned away into the abyss.


    Tungsten Machete¡úTungsten Blade of the Hollowed Forge: is a simple yet terrifying weapon forged from a rare, abyssal tungsten alloy, believed to be created in a forge deep within the heart of a long-dead, hollowed planet. While it appears as a mundane machete, the blade is infused with a dark, eldritch essence that bends the laws of physics and reality around it.


    -Matter Dissolution: As the machete slices through objects, its tungsten blade draws on the power of the void, eroding the physical composition of what it cuts. Structures, shields, and barriers are not just damaged;they begin to unravel, their atomic integrity corrupted by the eldritch force behind the weapon.


    [Newly Items Consumed]


    Storage Space Key¡úThe Key of Infinite Gloom: Now manifested as a cursed, sentient tattoo that can be inscribed anywhere on the user''s body. At first, it appears as a simple, dark ink design; twisting, ancient symbols resembling keys and cryptic runes. However, once the tattoo is activated by the user''s will, it expands and shifts, tearing open a rift into an unholy dimension


    -Endless Storage: Within the space objects, people, and other items from the mortal plane can be stored without any risk of dimensional collapse. The space inside this room stretches endlessly, but those who enter experience the discomfort of a subtle weight on their minds, as if the room itself is a living entity that resents the intrusion. This ability allows the user to store anything that can fit within its confines, regardless of its size or weight, including furniture, treasures, or even creatures.


    Seeker''s Orb¡úSeeker''s Orb Integration: Once a mere tool for locating any being through their anatomical traces, is now woven into the eldritch fabric of the abomination''s form, able to crawl out of the user''s flesh at any moment in time:


    -Essence Tracking: The Seeker''s Orb allows the eldritch abomination to sense and track any being across vast distances, as long as the being has left behind a trace of their anatomy; be it a strand of hair, a drop of blood, or even something as faint as a piece of skin.


    ''Alright, that''s enough for now.'' Ricky shivered, a cold unease crawling down his spine.


    Every time he added something new, it felt as if his skin was writhing beneath his flesh, as though his very body was rebelling against the foreign power now intertwined with him.


    ''Instead massive amounts of words and letters, let''s just chill and-''


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    "Are you busy~"


    A sultry purr rippled through the stillness of the room, a sound that seemed to seep into Ricky''s very bones.


    His body reacted before his mind could catch up, snapping upright as his eyes darted toward the door, drawn to the unmistakable voice that sent a shiver down his spine.


    There, framed by the doorway like a vision made flesh, stood Lilith as the sheer black gown she wore clung to her every curve, its delicate fabric barely concealing the fullness of her body.


    The low, seductive fabric shimmered in the dim light, as if teasing and inviting with every inch of her exposed skin.


    Her lips curled into a slow, knowing smile, a silent invitation, and she moved toward him with an almost lazy grace, swaying her hips in rhythm with her steps.


    Her hand drifted along the bed''s edge, fingertips brushing lightly across the surface as she closed the distance between them.


    Each step seemed measured, deliberate, the air between them growing thick with unspoken promises.


    In one fluid motion, he cast the bottle aside, his eyes never leaving Lilith as she glided toward him, each movement exuding an undeniable magnetism.


    "Hey, gorgeous." Ricky flashed a grin, the kind of smile that oozed confidence, even if it came off a little too self-assured.


    His eyes never left Lilith as she slid onto his lap, her movements slow and deliberate, each inch closer building the heat in the room.


    Lilith, however, had other plans as she leaned in, her cold, tight lips brushing against the fabric of his pants, the friction sending a jolt of awareness through him.


    The chill of her touch contrasted with the warmth of her presence, a reminder of the power she held.


    Her gaze locked with his, and for a moment, there was no room for anything but the smoldering intensity between them.


    But Lilith had no intention of being swayed by such fleeting moments of attraction as she wasn''t here to be just another conquest, this was about control.


    She needed to consolidate her power within the faction, and waiting for another powerful fool to stumble into her path wasn''t an option.


    No, she would make Ricky hers, not out of desire, but necessity.


    Their intimate embrace, the closeness, it was all a carefully crafted trap and soon, she''d make sure Ricky not only stayed but pledged himself to her, his loyalty sealed in the form of a marriage that would bind him to her, mind, body, and soul.


    ''At least he''s cute.'' Lilith thought, drawing her sensual breath next to his while showcasing that smile.


    "I never got to say thank you for all that you''ve done for me, so let me make it up to you~"


    My Patreon: /LaughingFiend for advanced chaps

 Chapter 107 - 104: Vampiric Temptress (R18)

    Chapter 107: Chapter 104: Vampiric Temptress (R18)


    Lilith''s Favorability: 20 (She''s just not that into you.)


    ''Huh?'' Ricky''s brow furrowed as he glanced at the favorability meter.


    Confusion simmered under his surface composure as he watched Lilith, who was tracing lazy circles on his leg with a warm smile that seemed to say otherwise.


    ''Is she just pretending to like me? Ricky wondered, until a thrill of intrigue sparking through him.


    ''Wait, if she''s using me for something-........does that mean I might get lucky without even having to try, at all?'' Ricky suddenly had an internal revelation as usually, he had to spin line after line just to make it halfway.


    Lilith''s hand lingered on his thigh, brushing it up just enough to spark temptation before slowly bringing it back down, and after seeing this Ricky just decided to play along.


    Ricky wondered internally, usually having to constantly spit out an ontradra of lines until he gets into there pants.


    "You know." Ricky said, letting his fingers brush over hers.


    "There is something I could do for you." Ricky''s voice lowered as his sleazy smile formed, and as he leaned in, she lifted her gaze, her smile widening with a glint of something he couldn''t quite place.


    "I''ll do anything to show my appreciation," Lilith whispered, her cool breath brushing over Ricky''s lips as she leaned closer, meeting him halfway.


    Her voice was like silk, low and inviting, each word increasing the growing temptation within Ricky''s pants.


    A heartbeat later, her cold lips pressed against his, a sensation both exhilarating and strange.


    There was no warmth in Lilith''s touch; only a murky, unyielding cold that seemed to drain every ounce of heat from his skin.


    Her fingers were like ice against him, a slow, consuming chill that reached deeper, as though seeking to steal every flicker of warmth he held.


    But this new sensation, this cold thrill, only pulled Ricky deeper into this experience as his hand slid to her cheek, fingers tracing the smooth, porcelain skin, marveling at the strange allure of her chill.


    Lilith leaned into his touch, her eyes fluttering shut, her demeanor softening as though surrendering to him completely.


    She let him take the lead, every inch of her yielding and inviting, allowing Ricky to savor the illusion of her trust; or perhaps the carefully crafted illusion that he was in control at all.


    Her tongue yielded passively to his, cold and unresponsive, lying there like something lifeless.


    Ricky found himself coaxing, his own movements growing more insistent as he tried to stir a response, a flicker of life from that chill.


    Yet, she remained hauntingly still, her lack of reaction an eerie thrill that only drove Ricky further.


    He found himself pushing to coax something within her, to turn that cold stillness into a spark, to breathe warmth into her icy detachment.


    ''Wet to the touch.'' Ricky''s satisfaction simmered, but he wanted more¡ªmore reaction, more intensity.


    Leaning into his skills, he pressed on with purpose, pushing the boundaries of what Lilith set for this encounter.


    "Mmmmm~" Lilith''s body gave a faint, unexpected shiver, her usual chill disrupted by a sudden pulse of warmth spreading through her.


    A heat she hadn''t felt in ages simmered just beneath her skin, and she could feel it pooling, her lower lips quivering beneath the delicate black velvet of her panties, dampening the fabric under her sheer robe.


    Beneath the veil of delicate black lingerie, bare womanhood lay exposed, soft and smooth, the warmth of her arousal just barely concealed by the thin fabric.


    The lace barely clung to her slit, her skin smooth and unmarked, a flawless canvas beneath the delicate fabric.


    Every inch of her seemed perfectly sculpted, untouched by the world, inviting yet elusive.


    Ricky''s grip tightened as he pulled Lilith closer, his kiss trailing down her neck, his lips pressing against her cool skin, moving to the hollow of her collarbone.


    His hands slid over her pale skin, the texture sending shivers through his fingertips as he slowly explored, his movements becoming more desperate.


    But before he could pull her any closer, Lilith let out a soft, drawn-out chuckle that completely changed how the situation would progress.


    Lilith moved with predatory grace, gliding onto his lap, her body pressing against him with a deliberate rhythm, her hips grinding against the growing bulge in his pants as she leaned into his ear, her breath cool and teasing.


    "You''re bad~" Lilith chuckled, a breathless, teasing sound that made her pale face flush.


    Her long black hair clung to her shoulders, strands tracing the curve of her neck as her smile stretched wider, almost mischievous.


    Before Ricky could muster a cheesy response, her fingers were already gripping his face, pulling him into a searing kiss.


    Lilith''s lips, cold at first, quickly warmed against his as the kiss deepened, fiercer this time, her movements hungry, demanding.


    Ricky''s hands, eager to follow suit, slid down her body with a purpose as his fingers lingered at her small waist, teasing the curve of her hips before they slipped lower, finding the soft swell of her ass.


    He molded it under his amplifying touch, drawing a breathless gasp from her as he kneaded her like dough, feeling the heat radiating from her.


    Lilith shivered, her composure slipping as Ricky''s amplified hands moved with a growing urgency, pushing her closer to the edge.


    She tried to take control, but Ricky''s slow, deliberate touch sent waves of pleasure flooding her senses, leaving her breathless, caught in the web of their entanglement.


    It was only the beginning, but Lilith could already feel herself melting under the searing heat of his touch.


    Every brush of his hands, every movement, set her body on fire as she let Ricky take the lead, feeling the rhythm of their connection build as his touch ignited a craving she hadn''t expected.


    But then, without warning, Lilith''s hands shot to his chest, pressing him back with surprising force.


    Her breath was ragged as she pinned him beneath her, her eyes burning fiercely to command the situation.


    Lilith knew she couldn''t be passive anymore; she needed to control how the following moments would take hold, to control Ricky.


    But what Lilith failed to account for was that Ricky wasn''t just waiting, he was ravenous.


    A beast starved for something beyond the familiar, craving more than the same predictable pleasure, desperate for a taste of something new, something beyond the endless repetition of the same meal, day after day.


    Ricky''s eyes darkened, narrowing into crescent moons as he fell back against the bed, his chest rising and falling with a deep, controlled breath.


    Lilith hovered over him, sitting firmly on his waist, her movements slow and deliberate as she rubbed herself against the growing bulge beneath her.


    ''I can wait.'' Ricky thought, his gaze fixed on Lilith that showed he was satisfied with what was in front of him, for now.


    He could wait a little longer, savor the buildup, knowing what was coming next as he didn''t need to rush, he wanted to savor the show.


    Lilith smirked, aware of the power she held in that moment and slowly, she slid the sheer robe from her shoulders, letting it fall to the floor.


    The faint glow of the room illuminated the lingerie beneath it, dark lace that clung to her curves in all the right places.


    Her fingers grazed the clasp at her back, and with a soft click, the laced bra fell away, surrendering to gravity.


    Two perky, symmetrical breasts were exposed to the air, the coolness making her soft pink nipples pebble, gently swaying before they settled, sharply pointed in the dim light.


    Biting her lip, Lilith hesitated for a moment, but then, with a slow, deliberate movement, she stood over Ricky.


    Her fingers grazed the waistband of her panties, peeling them down inch by inch, revealing the soft, untouched pussy, a delicate innocence that seemed untouched by the world.


    Hovering just above Ricky''s partially clothed form, Lilith paused, letting the weight of the moment settle and then, with a final breath, she bared herself completely to him, her form now fully exposed.


    Her body, the new vampire queen''s, was a masterpiece, something that seemed almost unreal, crafted by moonlight and whispered desires.


    The pale, flawless skin of her curves glowed under the dim light, soft and smooth, untouched by the harshness of the world.


    Every inch of her was sculpted, her waist cinched perfectly, leading to hips that swelled in perfect proportion, tempting and inviting.


    Her breasts, perky and symmetrical, stood proudly, their soft pink nipples now taut with anticipation, catching the light like the delicate bloom of a flower.


    Her stomach was flat and toned, the faintest curve of muscle tracing the path down to the edge of her pelvis, where the thin line of her lower abdomen led to the soft, untainted folds between her thighs.


    However, there was a clear trace of inexperience, the hesitation in each movement slowly overtaking her usual commanding presence as Lilith''s confidence wavered, replaced by a subtle vulnerability as she took a deep breath.


    It was then that she finally reached for Ricky''s growing bulge, her fingers trembling slightly as she moved to undo his shorts and with a slow pull, she freed him from the confines of his clothing.


    Her eyes widened in surprise at the sight of him; at the sheer size of him, the dragon that lurked beneath his shorts, now exposed by her own hands.


    For a moment, she froze, her breath catching in her throat as her fingers hovered over him.


    Lilith flinched, not out of fear, but from the overwhelming intensity of the moment and slowly, she reached again, but her hand pulled back, unsure yet undeniably intrigued.


    *Ahem*


    "Uh, you alright, Lilith?" Ricky raised an eyebrow, wondering if she might be a virgin, but before he could voice the question, he was sharply cut off by the glare she shot his way.


    "I''m fine," Lilith purred, her voice almost too smooth.


    "I''ve done this tons of times before-....it''s just been a while~" Lilith forced a confident smile, trying to mask the brief flicker of uncertainty in her eyes, before her gaze dropped back to his veiny, throbbing cock.


    Her breath caught for a moment, but she didn''t let it show before reaching toward him, she hesitated just for an instant, her small hands barely able to wrap around his thick length.


    The size of him felt almost too much, her fingers struggling to fully encircle him, as she gently stroked, still trying to steady herself.


    Each pulse of his body seemed to echo in her own, and for a fleeting moment, she was reminded of how uncharted this territory felt, despite everything she had done before.


    Lilith flinched, her breath catching as her eyes inadvertently met Ricky''s intense gaze.


    A faint blush crept across her cheeks, and she quickly turned her attention back to his cock, trying to regain her focus.


    Her small hand moved up and down, teasing, but the response she had expected, him giving in to the pleasure but that didn''t happen.


    Instead, Ricky''s frown deepened, his expression unreadable, making her pulse quicken with unease.


    For a moment, hesitation held her back, but then, she discarded her caution.


    With a determined breath, she hovered above him, her movements slow and deliberate.


    As she reached for his tip, her lips curled into a frustrated expression, ready to go all in despite the uncertainty.


    But just as she was about to press forward, Ricky''s hand shot out, grabbing her wrist with firm, unyielding strength.


    "Lilith, wait-" Ricky''s voice was sudden, his hand reaching out to stop her, but it was too late.


    It was painfully obvious she had no idea what she was actually doing, too naive to fully understand the weight of what she was about to do.


    But before he could pull her back, she swatted his hands away, her gaze intense.


    Lilith''s breath caught in her throat as a fire of determination flared inside her.


    In that moment, Lilith made a choice as this was her first step into the overwhelming power she craved, and she pushed herself forward, her body instinctively slamming down onto him.


    Her body moved instinctively, her hips slamming down, a sharp, breathless gasp escaping her lips as she slammed onto him.


    In that instant, Lilith''s innocence was utterly ripped apart by Ricky''s monstrous cock and the consequences hit her like a bolt, the immediate stretch too much for her to handle.


    However, Lilith had naively put her entire strength into her motion which forced the entire length of Ricky inside her.


    Her body, unprepared for the force, convulsed madly as his being surged immediately towards the deepest regions with a brutality that left her breathless.


    The sensation was overwhelming, burning, and Lilith''s mind went blank as all the air in her lungs evacuated in an instant.


    Lilith could feel every painful inch of him, her body molding and ripping around his size in a desperate way to accommodate him as her nerve endings were seemingly rearranging.


    "A-AHHHHHHHHHH!" Lilith''s scream rang out, her body trembling, tears streaking down her face as she felt herself being torn open.


    Her once-innocent lips quivered, forced apart by him, stretching to a point that made her feel as if she were torn at the seams.


    Lilith''s shivering pussy cried out with her purity, streaks of crimson streaming down the base of his cock and staining the sheet''s below.


    Ricky froze, his teeth clenched as the tightness of her body gripped him, sending a rush of sensation that nearly took his breath away.


    For a moment, the pressure seemed almost too much to bear, the way her body constricted around him, cutting off the flow of blood, leaving him dizzy with desire.


    Ricky paused, unable to move, taking a moment to process the intensity of the connection between them.


    L-Lilith, are you okay?" Ricky reached forward, watching as her perfect, composed facade shattered before the pain overtook her.


    Her hands flew to her face, gripping at her features as scarlet tears streaked down her cheeks, tears that weren''t supposed to exist.


    Vampires couldn''t cry like humans, but the agony coursing through her made her body tremble violently, as if it might collapse under the weight.


    Lilith had lost her voice, her mouth hanging open in a silent scream as the pain was unlike anything she''d ever experienced, a searing force that seemed to cut through her very being.


    She stood frozen, in shock, her mind struggling to process the sheer intensity of it as nothing made sense, and she couldn''t figure out what to do next.


    "Lilith, hey." Ricky gently brushed her hair aside, his hands softly pulling hers away as her trembling form lifted her eyes to meet his.


    Ricky cupped her face, his fingers pressing into her cheeks, forcing her to look at him.


    "It''s okay, you''re okay." Ricky murmured quickly, his voice soothing as he tried to calm her.


    Ricky hadn''t expected her to be so vulnerable, so completely unprepared for what had just happened.


    Lilith''s reaction caught him off guard, and he found himself completely caught off guard at how naive she was to sex.


    In Ricky''s mind, he had expected her to take control for a while, to ride him before the moment would shift, and he would take the lead, flipping her onto her back.


    "I-It hurts, it really hurts." Lilith wanted to scream, but all that escaped her lips was a soft, pained whisper.


    Her body trembled as Ricky pulled her into his arms, holding her close, trying to reel in from the steamy intertwining he thought he was about to have.


    "What were you thinking? You have to ease into it, you can''t just start immediately-"


    *Sniff*


    *Sniff*


    "I-I just wanted to win and be seductive~" Lilith''s voice cracked as she sniffled, her forehead tapping against his shoulder repeatedly, as if the motion could erase her embarrassment.


    The cold, controlled persona she usually wore; sly, mysterious, and seductive, began to crumble, piece by piece, as her vulnerability seeped through.


    "You want to win? At sex?" Ricky''s laugh bubbled out, incredulous and amused as he''d never heard anyone say it like that.


    The sound of his laughter echoed in the space between them before Lilith''s eyes flashed with fury, and before he knew it, her deadly glare cut through him like a blade.


    *Cough*


    "Well, if it makes you feel better, you definitely nailed it in the seductive department." Ricky teased, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips.


    Lilith narrowed her eyes, her glare sharp and furious as she rubbed at her tired eyes, trying to brush off the lingering sting of his words.


    "DAMMIT-Owie~" Lilith hissed, her frustration rising, only for the movement of her body to bring a wave of sharp pain.


    The sudden intensity of it forced her to fall silent, her words choking in her throat as the agony swept over her


    "Relax, just relax~" Ricky murmured softly, his voice a calming contrast to the turmoil in Lilith''s expression.


    Ricky could see she was far out of her element, and he knew it was time to take control.


    "H-How can I relax when it feels like my body is constantly tearing-" Lilith''s voice cracked as she turned toward him, pain still etched on her face, the blood tears streaming down her cheeks.


    Before she could say more, Ricky silenced her with a kiss as his lips pressed firmly against hers, enveloping her completely.


    It was deep, overwhelming, all-encompassing, an anchor in the storm of her suffering.


    As his hands moved over her body, they stoked the last embers of pleasure still buried within her, trying to shift the balance of pain into something different, something more manageable.


    Suddenly, Lilith found herself in a completely different position as her back pressed against the bed, her mind foggy and disoriented.


    The shift in position brought a sharp surge of pain once more, but buried deep within it, a small, unfamiliar stir of pleasure began to rise slowly, almost like it was trying to break through the ache.


    It felt strange to Lilith, conflicting even as she was acutely aware that all of this, everything she was feeling, was her own doing.


    Yet here was Ricky, a man she had barely met, a man who had killed her father, and yet, somehow, he was actively trying to comfort her.


    The contradiction gnawed at her, leaving her lost in a whirlwind of emotions she couldn''t quite make sense of.


    The mingling of their lips was slow at first, Lilith''s hesitation evident as she wasn''t sure what to do.


    But under Ricky''s steady lead, she began to follow his rhythm, finding her footing with each passing second.


    Her hands gradually slid around his neck, the pain in her body slowly starting to fade as Ricky''s lips worked against hers.


    It was a gradual release, the warmth and softness of the kiss replacing the ache, allowing her to finally move as her trembling legs instinctively wrapped around his waist, drawing him closer.


    When they finally broke the kiss, the connection lingered; like a delicate, fragile thread between them.


    Lilith''s breath was shallow, her face flushed with warmth while her mouth still hung open, her tongue peeking out ever so slightly.


    "W-Why did you stop~" Lilith, still caught in the moment, asked innocently, her voice barely a whisper as Ricky hovered above her.


    "Because you''re so damn sexy," Ricky murmured, his voice low and filled with admiration as he took her hand in his, kissing her palm gently, a gesture that lingered longer than she expected.


    The words seemed to hit Lilith all at once and her face flushed a deep crimson, her embarrassment palpable.


    "W-What?!" Lilith stammered, her mind racing as she realized the weight of what she had said and the unexpected compliment Ricky had just given her.


    Before she could process it, Ricky leaned back down, his lips finding hers once more, sealing any further words in the rush of the moment.


    "I''m going to start," Ricky whispered, his hand gently wrapping around hers.


    He guided his fingers to intertwine with hers to the side, pressing it softly against the sheets, as if to pin it there.


    "W-Wait, Ricky, I-" Lilith began to protest, her words faltering as a deep flush spread across her face before she turned away, embarrassed, feeling the heat of the moment suffocating her.


    But Ricky wasn''t going to let her hide as he gently cupped her cheek, turning her face back toward his.


    "Tell me, I want to know." Ricky uttered these words with a large smile, knowing that it was literally impossible to be more smooth in that moment.


    "I-I''m scared," Lilith admitted, her voice trembling as she gnashed her fangs tightly, then used the hand not holding Ricky''s to wipe away the dried tears from her face.


    "What can I do? Just tell me~" Ricky murmured, his chuckle carrying a mixture of amusement and tenderness.


    There was something about her, this innocent little lamb hidden beneath a tough and rough exterior, that just made him want to go wild.


    "Just go slow, please." Lilith whispered, the words slipping from her lips with a quiet desperation as it cost her pride to say it, but she needed him to understand.


    But before she could say more, a light kiss brushed her cold lips, gentle, almost reassuring and Ricky paused, a playful yet thoughtful smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.


    "Is there any other way?" Ricky asked softly, before gently taking her other hand, wrapping his fingers around hers and pinning it delicately to the side of her head.


    Under his grip, Lilith stood still, her body tense, hair spilling over her fingers, showing a slight trace of unease of fear at what was to come.


    It was then that Ricky''s hips shifted, the first movement in what felt like eternity as her breath hitched as he pulled out, the emptiness biting at her skin.


    A slow, aching pull started before a brief pause hung in the air before he pushed back inside, filling her again, inch by inch.


    The rhythm was deep, forceful, his thrust slow but unwavering as her body trembled, each movement sending waves of thick, aching shockwaves through her, stretching and filling her completely.


    Lilith''s eyelids fluttered, her head pressing back against the sheets as her teeth clenched.


    Ricky''s lips grazed the soft curve of her neck, marking her skin with dark hickeys.


    The pace was slow, each push gradual but relentless as the ache in her body simmered, spreading deep as Ricky forced himself further inside, stretching her, filling her completely.


    The pressure built with each thrust, her walls tight and raw without the comfort of lubrication.


    Every inch was a struggle, a pull, until a sharp cry tore from her throat, the pain turning to something else, something burning with need.


    "Ah~" Lilith''s breath hitched, a moan escaping her as Ricky pressed deeper into her, his slow movement drawing an instinctive reaction.


    The sensation caught her off guard, she didn''t know what this was, but the pain was quickly overtaken by something else.


    His presence, his scent, his touch; each one tipping the balance, overwhelming her senses.


    The ache in her body faded, replaced by a rising tide of pleasure, raw and undeniable, as his every movement shifted her world.


    His cock slid in and out with a steady rhythm, the friction intensifying the heat that was building within her, her insides tightening, grasping at him with every slow, steady movement.


    "A-Ah~" Lilith wasn''t sure if the sound was right, but the moan slipped from her lips anyway, the sensation of Ricky''s cock slowly forcing her walls apart making her gasp.


    The old wooden frame groaned under his steady rhythm, each movement deepening, enhancing the connection already growing between them.


    Ricky''s thrusts pushed inside her, each one seemingly reaching deeper, stretching her insides, making her tighten around him.


    She could feel the pressure, the pull, as he slid deeper, slowly transforming her insides, slowly giving way to his every action


    Lilith''s moans, once soft, began to rise, becoming more fervent, filled with a desperate passion.


    It was then did Ricky''s pace quickened, each thrust harder, deeper, as Lilith''s body moved against him, swaying with the rhythm like a tide crashing against the shore.


    He hovered above her, watching as she lost herself in the sensation, her body undulating with each thrust, rippling in time with his movements, her skin flushed and glistening with sweat.


    Ricky pressed her hands deeper into the sheets, feeling the overwhelming need to ease up, but the steady stream of innocent moans only fueled his desire as each sound she made drove him wilder, pushing him harder.


    *Clap*


    "AHHH~" Lilith screamed, her back arching as Ricky slammed into her, the sudden force catching her off guard, breaking the slow rhythm they''d built.


    Her body reacted immediately, the intensity of the thrusts surging through her, her moans now desperate and raw.


    "R-Ricky~" Lilith gasped, her voice trembling, her body straining to speak, but before she could finish, Ricky crushed his lips against hers in a forceful kiss before Ricky''s hips lifted a slow, dramatic pull.


    *CLAP*


    Ricky''s hips crashed down into her waist in one swift, powerful motion, his cock driving deep inside her with a brutal, immediate force.


    The sudden impact sent a jolt of electricity through her body, the unforgiving intensity forcing her to shudder, her eyes twitching uncontrollably as they rolled back, lost in the overwhelming tide of sensation.


    In that instant, Ricky reached deeper than ever before, every inch of him sending shockwaves through her, until her mind went blank, consumed by the overwhelming flood of pleasure, a thick haze that clouded her every thought.


    The rapid movement made Lilith''s body tremble, her eyes fluttering as they rolled back in ecstasy, her every nerve alight with the sensation of him inside her, pushing her to the edge.


    "F*cking hell~" Ricky grunted, savoring her tightness as he leaned down, his breath hot against her neck, before he began to pull back, only to drive in again.


    *CLAP*


    *Thump*


    *CLAP*


    *Thump*


    Ricky slammed down into her once more, the bed frame striking the wall with each powerful thrust, the sound filling the room like a heartbeat, steady and relentless.


    Lilith lay beneath him, held firmly in place, giving in completely to his grip as he filled her over and over, her mind slipping away with each forceful motion.


    Ricky''s relentless pace drove her deeper into the mattress, each thrust pushing her further toward that edge where pleasure blurred with surrender.


    "AH!" Lilith''s moan rang out, her voice raw as she felt the weight of his thrusts, each one driving waves of pleasure through her.


    Ricky captured her mouth with his, their lips locked in a fierce kiss, yet the slick, wet sounds between them remained.


    With Ricky''s tongue plunging into her mouth, her moans were muffled, swallowed up by the hunger of his kiss.


    The room was still filled with the shameless sounds of their bodies meeting, their skin met with a wet, slick sound, the unmistakable slap of flesh against flesh carrying through the air, each one sharper, deeper, a symphony of lust that filled the silence between their gasping breaths.


    Lilith''s body felt as if it had to react in kind, clenching around him as his cock surged forward, the slick heat of her opening molding around him, swallowing him whole each and every time.


    Ricky broke their hot kiss once more, watching as her moans spilled from her lips with each one a sharp exhale of desperation


    His balls churning, swelling as he felt himself nearing while ramping up his pace to whole new level only for Lilith''s eyes to widen.


    Gritting his teeth, he could feel his balls tightening as he reached the edge, pushing himself deeper into her, the pressure building as he slammed into her with savage intent.


    Lilith''s eyes went wide, her breath catching, unable to focus as her body trembled with the force of each thrust.


    She instinctively looked down, her mind unable to stop the flood of raw images before her.


    The sight of her own body, stretched and taking him, was obscene, her pussy struggling to accommodate his size.


    Lilith could feel the tight, slick friction as his thrusts pounded into her, each one pushing her closer to the edge, her body trembling and leaking with each forceful movement.


    Her thighs quivered beneath him, her moans growing louder, more frantic as the wet, slapping sound of their connection filled the room, a brutal rhythm that matched the frantic pounding of her pulse.


    Lilith could feel herself unraveling, her senses overloaded with the pressure building in her core, the slick, heated mess of their bodies working in desperate sync.


    The heat between them was suffocating, and the intensity of it all, his grip, the power in his thrusts, had her seeing stars as the ache turned into something willing up deep within her.


    "HAA~" Lilith cried out, the sound escaping her lips as the wave of pleasure crested.


    Lilith could feel herself spiraling, nearing the edge as Ricky''s grip on her tightened as his teeth were clenched in a grimace of effort, and with a grunt, he pulled back one more time before slamming back into her with all his might.


    "AHHHHHHHHH!" Lilith''s scream echoed, her body jerking violently as her head crashed back against the bed.


    Her eyes fluttered wildly, unable to focus as the sensation of Ricky pounding into her flooded her mind.


    The rush of ecstasy hit her like a freight train, a tidal wave that tore through every nerve in her body.


    "Argh~" Ricky grunted, his cock pulsing hard, each movement sending shockwaves through his body.


    Ricky could only feel the tight, hot grip of her and as Lilith flushed out her own climax, his entire body tensed, releasing wave after wave of hot, thick cum deep inside her.


    His cock throbbed uncontrollably as he flooded her with every ounce of himself, the heat of it scorching her in a way she''d never experienced before.


    Lilith''s body quivered, overwhelmed by the sensation of him filling her as the heat poured into her, her mind fogging as she took it all, every drop.


    The world around her seemed to fade, her focus narrowing to the feeling of Ricky inside her, the violent pulse of his release and the rawness of it all.


    The pressure of his seed spread through her, mixing with the haze of pleasure that clouded her senses.


    It felt as if she was nothing but a vessel for him, consumed by the force of what he gave her, her body trembling as it accepted him completely.


    "A-Ah~" Lilith groaned, her body trembling as the rush of pleasure surged through her.


    Her breath came in shallow, desperate gasps, her chest heaving with each erratic intake of air.


    "Phew~" Ricky heaved, a deep breath escaping him as he finally pulled away, letting go of her hands, which had been trapped in his firm grip.


    Ricky looked down at Lilith, his gaze heavy, almost unreadable as he tried to catch his breath.


    Her body was still trembling beneath him, the intensity of their connection hanging in the air like a thick fog, too potent to dissipate just yet.


    Instinctively, Ricky cupped her panting face in his hand, his thumb gently brushing over her slightly outstretched tongue as her shallow breaths fluttered against his skin.


    ''Yeah, I need another round,'' Ricky thought, the thought so instinctual that it almost seemed out of his control.


    Turning her limp, panting body onto her stomach, Ricky gripped her arm, pulling her up against him.


    Lilith''s head tilted back, resting against his shoulder as her breath came in shaky gasps, still recovering from the intensity of their previous movements.


    The heat between them hadn''t faded, and neither had the raw, unrelenting hunger that surged through him.


    His hands slid slowly up her body, fingers brushing over the soft, heated skin of her back, before cupping both of her perky breasts in his palms as he massaged them roughly, kneading the soft flesh as he pulled her body closer to his.


    However, instead of continuing where he left off, Ricky pulled back slightly, leaving Lilith to simmer in the haze of pleasure she was drowning in.


    The sudden absence of movement sent a shudder through her, her body trembling with the unfulfilled tension as she tried to catch her breath.


    "W-What are you doing?" Lilith''s words came out in a breathy murmur, her eyes slowly clearing from the haze.


    Lilith turned to him, only to meet his knowing side-eye as her heart raced at the teasing gleam in his eyes, the control he was taking over the moment while his lips curled into a sleazy smile that only made her flush deeper.


    "What am I supposed to be doing?" Ricky''s voice was thick with amusement, the question almost mocking as he watched her squirm under his gaze.


    Lilith blushed furiously, her cheeks burning as she averted her eyes, embarrassed by the vulnerability of her position.


    "Y-You put me in t-this embarrassing position, and you''re just-" Lilith''s words faltered as she tried to make sense of the frustration building inside her.


    But as she opened her mouth to continue, she felt the familiar twitch of his cock buried deep inside her, sending an electric shiver through her body.


    The sensation made her fangs clench, her breath catching in her throat as the mix of pleasure and irritation blurred her thoughts.


    "That''s not how you ask~" Ricky''s voice was low, teasing, almost like a dare as he leaned in, kissing the back of her ear, the warmth of his lips sending another shiver down her spine.


    The heat between them thickened, his control over her emotions and body pressing her further into a corner, forcing her to give in to the simmering tension he''d built.


    "I-I want to feel you~" Lilith''s words were barely a whisper, but they were heavy with need, her heart racing as she turned toward Ricky.


    Her breath caught in her throat, and before she could say another word, Ricky leaned in, placing a soft kiss on her shoulder, a tender contrast to the burning desire between them.


    "AH~" Lilith gasped, her breath hitching in her throat as the sudden shift in Ricky''s movements took her by surprise.


    Before she could process it, he thrust into her with force, his body pressing against hers as he filled her completely.


    Her head jolted back, the overwhelming sensation making her body tremble as a smile crept across her face.


    His fingers cupped her perky breasts deeply, his cum still swirling inside her, trapped by the steady intrusion of his cock.


    Each thrust drove deeper, his hips slapping against her with a pace that sent shivers through her.


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    Her moans echoed in time with the force of his movements, urging him on as she surrendered once more to the mounting pleasure.


    Closing his eyes, Ricky let himself sink into the feeling that overtook him every time he plunged deeper into Lilith.


    His head dropped to her shoulder, his breath hot against her skin as his pace grew more fervent.


    *Clap*


    *Clap*


    Lilith''s body responded to Ricky''s relentless pace, her ass rippling with each impact, the sound echoing like applause through the room as her moans grew louder, rising to a long, breathless cry as the intensity pushed her further.


    "Ahhhhhhh~" Lilith gasped, unable to hold back as the pleasure surged higher, intensifying with each second.


    Just then, Lilith''s crimson eyes opened, fixating on the sight of Ricky''s exposed neck, pulsing and vulnerable in the dim light.


    The temptation was irresistible, her instincts taking over as her fangs extended, sharp and eager as she leaned in, her breath warm against his skin, driven by a primal urge to claim him.


    With a deliberate movement, her fangs sank into his flesh, her grip tightening as a surge of satisfaction coursed through her.


    She wanted Ricky; by her side, bound to her, hand in hand, inextricably linked and with each heartbeat, she drew him closer to that reality, sealing their connection in the heat of the moment.


    Ricky''s blood was intoxicating, a rich, powerful essence that seemed to fill every part of her as she drank.


    She felt utterly consumed, her senses sharpened, every beat of his heart drawing her deeper into a heady desire she couldn''t resist.


    The taste only heightened her craving, a primal need flaring up as she clung to him, unable to stop herself from wanting more.


    *Gulp*


    Lilith swallowed a deep, warm rush of his blood just as her ass was pounded, his cock slamming forward again, each thrust driving her body and mind into a dizzying cycle of pleasure and hunger.


    Her eyes fluttered closed, lost in the rhythm, only to open again with each fresh wave of sensation.


    Lilith was slowly draining him in more ways than one, her body tightening around him in a relentless grip, like a vice that milked every inch of his cock.


    With each movement, her fangs sank deeper, drawing another mouthful of blood as the pleasure and need mingled in a consuming cycle.


    *Clap*


    *Clap*


    *Clap*


    The sound of their skin slapping together filled the air, yet they were completely silent, lost in the overwhelming pleasure.


    Neither spoke, instead their bodies did all the talking, entranced by the rhythm they created together, each thrust pushing them deeper into the ecstasy they shared.


    Both of them slammed into each other with a desperate urgency, each thrust a plea to feel the other''s release before their grip on each other tightened as they moved in perfect sync, as if connected by some unseen force.


    Ricky''s nails dug into her skin, and in response, Lilith''s fingers mirrored his, both of them marking each other as they lost themselves in the moment.


    With one brutal thrust, Ricky buried himself deep inside her, just as Lilith pushed down to meet him.


    "A-A-A-Ah~" Lilith shuddered, her fangs pulling away from his neck, leaving a trail of blood on her chin.


    Her eyes rolled back as her body clenched around him, her climax flushing through her with overwhelming force.


    "F*ck~" Ricky grunted, not caring about the bite on his neck as his balls tightened, churning out one final serving of cum as he released everything he had been holding inside her.


    The scorching heat of his cum filled her completely, leaving her breathless as the sensation swirled within her, igniting a fire that consumed every inch of her being as the feeling ravaged her mind.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Suddenly, they both collapsed onto the bed, Ricky lying on top of her before rolling to the side.


    Lilith unconsciously nestled into his embrace, her body seeking the comfort of his closeness as Ricky''s tired eyes drifted forward, his mind still heavy with the aftermath of their shared moment.


    *DING*


    ''F*ck it, I''ll worry about it tomorrow.''

 Chapter 108 - 105: Delving Deeper

    Chapter 108: Chapter 105: Delving Deeper


    *Ding*


    [Eldritch Abomination wishes to feed on Vampiric Curse, will you allow consumption?]


    [Yes/No]


    *Ding*


    [Eldritch Abomination wishes to feed on Vampiric Curse, will you allow consumption?]


    [Yes/No]


    *Ding*


    [Eldritch Abomination wishes to feed on Vampiric Curse, will you allow consumption?]


    [Yes/No]


    *Ding*


    [Eldritch Abomination wishes to feed on Vampiric Curse, will you allow consumption?]


    [Yes/No]


    Ricky''s eyebrow twitched, his eyes flickering open as the persistent ring of the notification refused to be ignored, echoing insistently in his mind.


    It was still the middle of the night, barely thirty minutes since Lilith had drifted off, sleeping peacefully in Ricky''s arms.


    Yet above him, a hovering screen lingered, casting a faint glow over the darkness, demanding his attention.


    ''Fine, Jesus-'' Ricky muttered, reluctantly agreeing, only to feel an intense strain ripple through him.


    His eyes turned jet black as dark veins webbed across his skin, pulsing with vampiric essence.


    Slipping out of bed, he staggered toward the bathroom, each step weighed down by the familiar, brutal ache coursing through his body.


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    Stumbling toward the bathroom, Ricky clutched his body, gritting his teeth as the vampiric essence took hold, searing through his veins.


    ''Oh, for f*ck''s sake, I completely forgot about this part.'' Ricky hatefully thought, his face laced with a bitter resentment.


    Ricky''s muscles spasmed with agony, each pulse more intense than the last, until he finally collapsed to his knees, panting.


    Ricky glared up at the hovering screen before him, its glow sharp against the dark, as if mocking his torment.


    *DING*


    By-Product Received:


    +15 Mana


    +10 Strength


    +10 Vitality


    +10 Agility


    Vampiric Terror: Consumed and manifested through the eldritch abomination. The user has gained the ability to assume a formidable Vampiric Form. This form grants it predatory instincts, near-supernatural resilience, and razor-sharp fangs and claws capable of rendering through most mortal defenses.


    Powers and Abilities:


    Vampiric Physique: Upon transformation, the abomination''s body is imbued with enhanced strength, agility, and endurance, allowing it to move with unnatural speed and strike with terrifying force. Its senses sharpen, enabling it to track prey with primal focus, detecting heartbeats and sensing the life essence of those nearby.


    Blood-Drain Bite: The abomination can drain life essence directly from its victims through a bite, rejuvenating itself by sapping the vitality of others. This ability hastens its healing and sustains the transformation for longer durations, but only if it can regularly feed.


    Predator''s Reflexes: With an instinctive awareness of incoming attacks, the abomination gains heightened reflexes, allowing it to dodge or counter physical strikes more easily while in this vampiric state. This instinct operates on an almost primal level, moving faster than conscious thought.


    Weakness:


    Magic Suppression: Vampiric Form draws upon the abomination''s magical abilities rendering them inert. The abomination cannot cast spells, use magical skills, or access any arcane abilities, relying solely on physical prowess and vampiric instincts.


    Light Sensitivity: The Vampiric Form is weakened in direct sunlight or under intense radiant sources, reducing its durability and stamina. The abomination''s regenerative abilities are also slow, making prolonged exposure to light a significant risk during transformation.


    Scowling, Ricky barely glanced at the skill notification before flipping off the system.


    He pulled himself up, leaning over the sink to stare into the mirror as his magic stirred within him, and a new form took hold, but he only frowned, unimpressed by the lack of any noticeable improvement in his appearance.


    ''Man, I really thought for a second I was gonna be some adonis in that vampire form, but I can''t guess not everything goes my way.'' Ricky let out a reluctant sigh, he turned on the faucet, letting the cool water run over his hands.


    Ricky splashed his face, feeling the chill steady him, then lowered his gaze to watch the water flow down the drain, his mind drifting with it.


    ''I mean, I kind of expected Lilith to bone me but to turn me-wait.'' Ricky''s thoughts spiraled, his mind suddenly racing at superhuman speeds.


    It felt as if his brain had kicked into overdrive, every neuron firing at full capacity as he snapped his gaze to his reflection, a sudden realization dawning on him, clear and sharp, cutting through the fog in his mind.


    ''If she boned me to turn me into some vampire and if it didn''t work the first time, does that mean she''ll keep trying?'' Ricky''s hand shot up to cover his mouth, stifling a grin as his thoughts spun further.


    ''And if she keeps trying, that means I get to keep having sex without any effort?'' Ricky''s mouth fell open, stunned, since this was something he''d never imagined happening and yet, here he was, faced with a situation that felt too good to be real.


    ''Focus and keep your f*cking mouth shut. We''re in it for the long haul.'' Ricky told himself, gripping the sink tightly as he locked eyes with his own reflection and with a steadying breath, he released his grip and made his way back to bed.


    The moment he slipped under the covers, Lilith instinctively curled against his chest, her warmth a quiet comfort.


    He allowed a small smile as he drifted into sleep, unaware that just as his breathing slowed, Lilith''s crimson eyes flickered open, watching him with a hint of something unspoken.


    ''And now we wait.'' Lilith slowly caressed his chest before her eyes too slowly shut.


    Next day,


    *Ding*


    [Mission Received: Lilith Tepes]


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: S+


    Description: From a young age, she has witnessed the neglect and tyranny that come with his obsessive pursuit of power that killed her mother, fostering an intense resentment that has only grown over the years. This resentment fuels her determination to break free from his shadow, driving her obsession with not only wanting to kill him but also to claim the power he so coveted and used to abandon her. Her daddy issues manifest in a rejection of traditional notions of love or familial affection; instead, she craves validation through vengeance and power. Lilith''s desire to usurp her father''s strength reflects her need to assert her own identity and value, warped by the emotional scars left by his abandonment.


    Objective: Daddy issues = Introduction Into Motherhood 101


    Reward: 100,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once:


    Rewards: 400 Gacha or Lilith Tepe''s Innate Powers


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Fill her empty void either Physically or Emotionally(Complete):


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Have Lilith Open Up While Inside Of Her(Complete):


    Reward: Legendary Item


    Have The Prideful Lilith Beg For More(Complete):


    Reward: 200,000 IP


    Bonus Missions:


    F*ck Lilith Into An Unconscious State(Complete):


    Reward: Epic Coupon


    ???????????????????


    Have Lilith Try And Turn You In The Midst Of Sex(Complete)


    Reward: 100 Gacha


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    Ricky grunted with each pull-up, his muscles straining as he worked through the set.


    Sweat dripped down his face, but his mind was elsewhere, on the rewards that awaited him.


    He''d put off deciding which one to claim until now, knowing his thoughts would be sharper once his body was in motion.


    But even as his muscles burned, he was still at a loss, torn between options, his mind still clouded by indecision.


    ''Screw it, choose Lilith''s powers.''


    *DING*


    Ricky didn''t want to part with so much of his gacha, especially in light of his eldritch skill.


    But Lilith''s necromancy was something else and was far too useful for his plans, especially with what was coming.


    The power to raise the dead, to bend them to his will, was something Ricky couldn''t afford to ignore, no matter the cost as the decision gnawed at him, but the practicality of it was undeniable.


    *DING*


    Received:


    Necromancy Magic(Innate): The user can conjure the undead through intricate rituals and dark incantations, requiring components like bones, blood, and ancient relics and the summoning process includes:


    Ritual Preparation: The user must set up a necromantic circle inscribed with runes and symbols that channel death energy, creating a conduit between the living world and the afterlife.Invocation: The user must recite an ancient incantation, the user voice resonating with power. Dark energy swirls around her, and the ground trembles as the undead rise from the circle.Manifestation: Undead beings such as skeletal warriors and ghostly apparitions emerge, bound to the users will with glowing eyes reflecting the users command.


    ''Feed it.''


    In a mere second, the text was seemingly devoured before his eyes as his eyes became void black as it was taking fold.


    *Ding*


    Necromancy Magic (Eldritch Abomination):


    Ritual Preparation: The user creates a dark nexus, summoning necrotic energies through the placement of blood-soaked relics and the bones of the fallen. The ritual circle, etched in corrupted symbols and runes, pulses with an unholy glow, drawing the very essence of death from the void.


    Invocation of the Forgotten: With each chant, the user''s voice reverberates through the fabric of the dimension, calling out to the ancient, forsaken souls. The ground cracks open, and the earth groans under the pressure of forgotten spirits clawing their way back to the mortal realm.


    Manifestation of the Abyssal Horde: From the corrupted circle, a horde of skeletal warriors, wraiths, and other unholy entities claw their way into the physical realm. Their eyes, hollow and filled with otherworldly malevolence, are bound to the user''s will, each one an extension of the user''s will to feed the darkness.


    Abilities:


    Abyssal Dominion: The user commands the undead, each corpse bound to their will with threads of necrotic power.


    Eternal Rebirth: Those summoned can never truly die; as long as the user exists, the undead may rise again. They are perpetual servants until their master is undone.


    The words Profaci had spoken to him those years ago echoed in his mind, haunting him, driving him toward a decision he''d been avoiding.


    Seeing Lilith wield control over the undead had sparked something in him, an opportunity.


    She was undeniably attractive, and Ricky couldn''t deny his desire to want to boneher, that was the first thing that drew him in.


    But then, he saw something more in Lilith as he wasn''t just sitting on the sidelines, ogling her when she faced off against Rachael, no, for the most part, he was observing her abilities.


    Profaci was undeniably right in his assessment: Ricky couldn''t be in two places at once. And if he ever left, there would be risks, people could target those he cared about, use them against him, manipulate his absence to their advantage.


    The thought gnawed at him, a constant reminder of his limitations as it was a vulnerability Ricky couldn''t afford, not when everything he''d built could easily crumble in his absence.


    But this changed everything for Ricky. His mind raced, already swirling with possibilities, each one more enticing than the last.


    A grin spread across his face, one that was almost manic as he dropped to the floor and started doing sit-ups, his body moving rhythmically, fueled by the new sense of purpose.


    With Lilith''s powers at his disposal, he could finally protect his people without being there.


    His future was unfolding in front of him, and this time, nothing would stand in his way from getting whatever he wanted.


    ''Now coupons.''


    *DING*


    (Legendary Item) ChronoCore Data Recorder


    Description: The ChronoCore Data Recorder is a sleek, high-tech device designed to capture and store vast amounts of data with unprecedented efficiency. It features a futuristic design with a crystalline display that glows with a soft, pulsating light.


    Features:


    Infinite RAM Array: Equipped with an advanced, virtually limitless RAM array, the ChronoCore can handle and record enormous volumes of data without any risk of running out of memory.


    Secure Encryption: Incorporates state-of-the-art encryption algorithms to ensure that all recorded data is secure from unauthorized access, maintaining confidentiality and integrity.


    Advanced Interface: Features an intuitive holographic interface that allows users to manage and access recorded data with ease. The interface supports advanced data visualization and analysis tools.


    (Legendary Armor) Ring of Aegis: Grants nigh-immunity to physical and magical attacks for a short period of time.


    Effects:


    Damage Reduction: Reduces incoming damage by a significant percentage.


    Magical Shield: Provides a barrier that absorbs a portion of magical attacks for a specific period of time.


    Regeneration: Accelerates natural healing, allowing for rapid recovery from injuries.


    Warning: When activated the effects are only active for a minute and need thirty minutes to recharge.


    (Epic Skill) Quickcraft: A versatile skill that allows the user to rapidly assemble or repair simple items and tools using basic materials and tools with the cost of the user''s stamina.


    ''What the hell do I do with a recording device and that ring sucks.'' Ricky thought, pushing his body upward before pausing, his mind working over the problem again.


    ''Well, I guess I could use the device to record sh*t for blackmail and for the ring. I guess I can lend it out.'' Ricky punched the air lightly, feeling a small surge of satisfaction before lowering himself back down for another sit-up.


    ''But if I let my skill eat it, it''ll turn all weird and dark. I''ll hold off on letting it eat the items for now.'' Ricky sighed at the thought since there was always some twist when he fed something to the eldritch abomination.


    If he allowed others to use it, he knew it could freak them out, and that wasn''t something he was willing to deal with, at least, not yet.


    ''But feed quickie craft or whatever the name is.''


    Quickcraft¡ú Flesh Weaving: A twisted reflection of mundane craftsmanship, this skill allows the user to rapidly assemble, repair, or modify objects using basic materials. However, each act of creation or repair draws upon the user''s life essence, draining their stamina as the magic demands payment from the very fabric of their being.


    Abilities:


    Flesh and Bone Forging: The user can craft and modify objects with mere gestures, bending simple materials like wood, metal, or bone into intricate, functional forms. This may include weapons, armor, or even constructs designed for specific, often dark, purposes.


    Hastened Reconstruction: The user can instantly repair damaged tools, weapons, or structures, withering their stamina as they force their body to rush the process. In battle, this skill can rapidly fix broken armor or reload weapons.


    Unholy Ingenuity: The user''s creations are laced with dark energy, allowing even the simplest objects to carry eldritch properties, such as weapons that drain life force or tools that can siphon memories.


    Weaknesses:


    Stamina Sacrifice: The skill is fueled by the user''s stamina, and each use gradually weakens the user physically and mentally, leading to exhaustion or, if overused, permanent damage to their body.


    ''F*cking weird, man.'' Ricky sighed internally, shaking his head since he completely expected it.


    ''But I guess I''m weird too so I can''t complain.'' Ricky thought, sitting up as his reflection was that of an eldritch horror.


    *Sigh*


    ''Now, for the goddess of luck to not be a b*tch, roll the gacha.''


    *DING*


    (Uncommon) Stainless Steel Microwave: A countertop appliance that uses electromagnetic radiation to heat and cook food quickly. It features a rotating turntable and digital controls for setting time and power levels. x10


    (Uncommon) Blender: A kitchen device with a motorized base and a tall, cylindrical container with sharp blades at the bottom. It blends, purees, and emulsifies ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and liquids to create smoothies, soups, and sauces. x15


    (Uncommon) Dishwasher: An appliance designed to automatically clean and sanitize dishes, pots, and utensils. It features racks to hold items, a spray arm to distribute water and detergent, and various wash cycles for different cleaning needs. X 35


    (Uncommon) Toaster: A small appliance that uses electric heating elements to toast slices of bread or other baked goods. It typically has adjustable settings for browning levels and a pop-up mechanism to eject the toast when it''s done. x23


    (Common) Washing Machine: A large appliance used for cleaning clothes and other textiles. It features a rotating drum that agitates the laundry with water and detergent, and it usually has settings for different wash cycles and spin speeds. X 4


    (Common) Air Conditioner: A climate control appliance that cools and dehumidifies indoor air. It often consists of a compressor, condenser, and evaporator, and it can be a window unit, portable unit, or central system. X 6


    (Uncommon) Coffee Maker: An appliance used to brew coffee by dripping hot water through coffee grounds. It typically includes a reservoir for water, a filter basket, and a carafe or pot for collecting the brewed coffee. X 17


    (Uncommon) Vacuum Cleaner: A device that uses suction to remove dust, dirt, and debris from floors and other surfaces. It typically includes a motor, a dust bag or canister, and various attachments for different cleaning tasks. X 13


    (Uncommon) Steel Refrigerator: A large appliance used to store and preserve food by keeping it cool. It includes compartments for freezing and refrigeration, adjustable shelves, and often a door with shelves for beverages and condiments. X 25


    (Uncommon) Electric Kettle: A small appliance designed to quickly boil water. It features a heating element at the base, a spout for pouring, and often an automatic shut-off mechanism once the water reaches a boiling point. X 27


    (Common) Edible Condoms: Out of date condoms that give anyone diarrhea if they ingest them. X 50


    ''Woah.'' Ricky thought, eyeing the items he''d just received as he pulled out an electric kettle.


    To most, it might seem like just an everyday appliance, something to shrug off. But to Ricky, this was more than that.


    Ricky had big plans for when he got back to New York, plans to elevate the Luciano family''s influence beyond its usual reach, branching into the business world in a way that hadn''t been done before.


    His mind raced with ideas, none more thrilling than the possibilities that came with the blueprint scanner and the advanced items already stored in his inventory.


    With this technology, he could dominate the household appliance market, pushing the family''s reach into new territory.


    ''Later, later.'' Ricky reminded himself, reigning in his thoughts as he stood up, rubbing his neck as he''d get there eventually, but right now, he needed to keep focused.


    ''Let''s go take a shower, I smell like sh*t.''


    1 hour later,


    After a long, steamy shower, Ricky stood there, letting the hot water cascade down his body, relishing every second.


    When he finally stepped out, the bathroom was transformed into a miniature sauna, thick with mist.


    Plopping down on the toilet and leaning back, he pulled up the shop on his screen, his gaze clouded with a frown.


    Ricky hadn''t bought much from the shop since none of the items or skills had really caught his attention.


    But he knew he should be taking better advantage of the system and its rewards, but to do that, though, he''d have to up his game, push himself to new heights.


    ''God, when did I become such a picky b*tch?'' Ricky lamented, crossing his arms as he stared at the shop screen.


    [Shop]


    IP: 500,000


    Refreshable Items:


    Passion Elixir: 5,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: A small vial containing a liquid that, once ingested, heightens sensitivity, making every touch feel electrifying and hard to resist.


    Heartfire Mist: 15,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: A small spray that, when used, infuses the air with a warm, subtle scent, increasing heart rates and fostering a mutual sense of intimacy.


    Overpriced Candle of Passion: 100,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: A single, very expensive candle that promises a "smoldering atmosphere." In reality, it produces minimal scent and burns out after a few hours. At least it comes in a nice box.


    {Refresh Available}


    Daily Item:


    Silk Ribbon Bond: 5,000 IP


    Description: A luxurious silk ribbon that can be used to gently restrain someone, increasing their relaxation by +5 and enhancing sensitivity.


    Weekly Item:


    Faint Wink (Passive): 20,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Gives the user a natural tendency to blink slowly, which could possibly look like winking from a distance. Effects are subtle, sometimes leading to more confusion than attraction.


    Monthly Item:


    Enthralling Voice (Passive): 200,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: This passive skill imbues the user''s voice with a captivating quality, making it pleasant and hypnotic to anyone listening.


    *Sigh*


    ''Just give me Enthralling Voice.'' Ricky muttered with a sigh, slicking back his wet hair, before he strode out of the bathroom, only to be met by a lustful sight.


    "Hey, big boy." Lilith lounged on Ricky''s bed, a smirk tugging at her lips.


    Ricky raised an eyebrow, but when his eyes caught sight of her completely naked form, he tossed his towel aside without a second thought.


    "Sweet."


    Outside his door, Rachael stood, her expression tense, though she tried to steel herself since she''d been avoiding Ricky for too long, and the reasons weighed on her.


    At first, it had been guilt since she may have helped land the final blow, but it was Ricky who had carried the fight, accomplishing what she''d trained for relentlessly her whole life.


    Beyond that, three years had passed with barely any real conversation between them; everything she''d said had been confined to training matters, nothing more.


    Rachael had always kept Ricky at arm''s length, offering him nothing but the cold shoulder whenever she could, all while becoming completely consumed by the obsession of killing Dracula.


    But now, looking back, she felt shallow for only beginning to understand him after three years.


    It hit her that she owed him more than just silence, she owed him the gratitude he deserved for putting up with her behavior all this time.


    So Rachael took a deep breath, steadying herself as she knew she had to apologize, to finally acknowledge her behavior and make things right.


    ''Don''t be afraid, it''s time to give the appropriate thanks.'' Rachael resolved herself as she opened the door.


    "Ricky I-oh my god!" Rachael opened the door only to see Lilith on top of Ricky, covering her eyes, rushing out the door, and slamming it behind her.


    *BAM*


    "Hey, Rachael-" Ricky began, popping his head out the door, but before he could say more, Lilith yanked him back, her limbs wrapping around him.


    Ricky''s focus instantly shifted as he found himself once again captivated by the naked woman in his embrace.


    "She can wait~" Lilith bit her lip, drawing her finger all the way down his chest before cupping his balls.


    "You know what, she can wait." Ricky also agreed, shutting the door as Lilith''s smile extended across her face.


    15 minutes later,


    "Oh Ricky~"


    "Oh Ricky!"


    "OH RICKY~"


    "OH, RICKY!" Lilith screamed, her voice dripping with intensity, as Rachael stood frozen on the other side of the door.


    Never in her life had she witnessed such a display of lust, and it left the stone-cold wolf feeling flushed and unsettled.


    A moment later, Lilith casually opened the door, strutting past Rachael with a teasing lick of her lips and a wink as she let out a mocking chuckle before walking by, her confidence evident in every step.


    "Hey Rachael what are you-"


    "How dare you commit such vile acts before marriage, especially with a horrid vampire, you heathen!" Rachael blurted, her face flushed with fury as she pointed an accusing finger at Ricky as he simply stared at her, a mix of confusion and surprise on his face.


    "Uhhhhh?" Ricky blinked, his mind trying to process her words.


    It left Ricky confused because there had been numerous times when Rachael had walked in on him sticking his tongue down Agatha''s throat, and it never seemed to faze her before.


    Yet here she was, storming off, as if Ricky hadn''t already been tangled up in far more complicated matters, until he suddenly covered his mouth, unsure of what to say, and watched her go.


    ''Wait, it can''t be-.....is she jealous that I''m getting it on with a busty vampire?'' Ricky paused, a thought suddenly clicking in his mind and as the realization set in.


    So full of himself after a serving of Lilith, he couldn''t help but break into a sleazy grin as he walked out of the room.


    "Hey Rachael-"


    *BOOM*


    Ricky opened his mouth to deliver a cheesy remark, but before he could get the words out, Rachael ripped a chunk of the wall from its foundation and hurled it at him.


    The rock collided with his forcefield, shattering on impact, sending a cloud of dust into the air.


    As the dust settled, Ricky was left standing there, a stupid grin plastered on his face, while Rachael had already stormed off, leaving him to contemplate the absurdity of it all.


    "She''s totally jealous," Ricky muttered to himself, laughing as he strolled down the hallway with an exaggerated swagger.


    However, his confidence faltered when he turned the corner and came face to face with Asterion, who had Garfield lazily nestled on his arm and Alexander proudly hopping around on his shoulder.


    "HOW DARE YOU STRIP ME FROM THE GLORIOUS GAME KNOWN AS POKER!" Alexander roared in Asterion''s ears, his tiny form vibrating with indignation.


    The big burly minotaur sighed heavily, clearly still getting used to this gerbil''s antics, before his eyes landed on Ricky.


    "Ah, Ricky, it''s good to see you in full health," Asterion said, his deep voice warm as he walked over and gave Ricky a hearty pat on the shoulder.


    At the same time, Alexander quickly scurried up to Asterion''s head, waving his tiny paws in frustration at being ignored.


    "Ricky, why did you never tell me how amazing this marvelous game called Poker is?" Alexander asked, his eyes wide with newfound excitement.


    His obsession with Go Fish was quickly evolving into a full-blown gambling addiction, and Ricky could almost see the gleam of future bad decisions forming in this gerbil''s beady little eyes.


    "Uh, I guess you never asked." Ricky replied with a raised eyebrow, clearly puzzled by the sudden intensity in Alexander''s voice.


    "I thought you only liked go fish-"


    "That is true, but I have been ensnared, Ricky! And I must quench this thirst!" Alexander declared dramatically, his tiny paws flailing in the air as he hopped from one foot to the other.


    Ricky rubbed his chin, clearly deep in thought as this could be problematic, but then again, he wasn''t exactly surprised after how crazy attached he was to go fish.


    "Then let''s go gambling¡ªwait, you should ease off a bit." Ricky was about to continue, but he suddenly stopped mid-sentence, his gaze sharpening as he looked down at Alexander.


    "You can watch me play but no playing yourself-"


    "THIS IS BLASPHEMY!" Alexander shrieked, his tiny claws scratching Ricky''s cheek as he pushed him away in outrage.


    "It''s this or nothing, choose." Ricky''s tone was firm, his gaze steady as he looked at Alexander.


    Ricky could see the seed of a dangerous addiction starting to grow in the gerbil''s eyes, and he wasn''t about to let it spiral out of control without it being under his watch.


    "Very well, but at least allow me one hand to play."


    "Deal."


    It was then that a gentleman''s agreement formed between the two as Ricky extended his hand with a small, knowing grin, while Alexander took it with a huff.


    "Hey Asterion, I gotta make good on my promise and show you some fun." Ricky smirked, nudging the mighty Asterion who showed slight surprise but nodded nonetheless.


    "I await our glorious adventure."


    15 minutes later,


    "A rundown tavern?" Asterion asked curiously, watching as Ricky sniffed out a dilapidated bar in Transylvania.


    Dracula had long since wiped out the humans in the surrounding villages and initially, the area had been intended as his livestock grounds, but the upkeep had proven less efficient than simply hunting for prey.


    They were supposed to be playing along with the vampires Alexander had found himself involved with, but it seemed that killing Dracula had made the other vampires incredibly uncomfortable but regardless of their opinions on Ricky, they all hastily retreated.


    "Yeah, let''s get celebratory wasted!" Ricky exclaimed, eager to have a good time with Asterion and the others.


    *Bam*


    Kicking the old door open, instead of a desolate bar he found out that it was occupied with a lone figure.


    "Who goes there?" The figure asked out, walking out the shadows to reveal an old figure with an eyepatch and gimp leg.


    "Uh Asterion, I clearly remember you saying there wasn''t anyone in this rundown town." Ricky turned back to Asterion who walked in and squinted his eyes upon seeing the old man.


    "I did." Asterion looked just as confused as Ricky, scratching the top of his head.


    "Cease the delays Ricky, our game is still afoot." Alexander commanded on Ricky''s shoulder, pointing forward while Garfiled sighed at the side lightly.


    "Names O''malley and I''m the last remaining citizen of this old town-"


    "No, you''re lying." Ricky immediately interjected into the man''s backstory as he froze, his lie detection skill reacting almost instantaneously.


    "I''m not lying-"


    "No, he''s really lying." Ricky turned to Asterion who nodded his head, the minotaur trusting in Ricky''s words while squinting.


    "Listen I-"


    *SIGH*


    *Snap*


    "You two are no fun." The man snapped his fingers, his body morphing into that familiar figure that made Ricky frown.


    "Mephisto." Ricky and Asterion both said in unison, looking at each other without even knowing if the other knew him.


    "Correct. And, if I may say, Asterion, it''s truly a pleasure to see you in the flesh once more," Mephisto remarked, appearing beside the minotaur.


    Asterion shoved the demon back, but Mephisto spun gracefully, making it seem as though the push had no effect at all.


    "And look at this brimming young talent," Mephisto said, flashing a devilish grin.


    "A face I haven''t yet placed, but from that little one''s words, your true name is Ricky." Mephisto rubbed his hands together in delight, watching Ricky scow, his expression darkening.


    Though he planned to unveil himself to the world as the Black Knight, he wasn''t ready to do so without proper preparation.


    However, after his conversation with Abraham about Mephisto, he could tell that he was ready to tug at this thread, intending to pull as much from it as possible to further his own agenda.


    "Hey, Mephisto, want to make a deal?" Ricky said suddenly, catching both Asterion and Mephisto off guard.


    "Ricky, don''t-" Asterion reached out, but the demon was quicker, appearing instantly at Ricky''s side while sliding an arm around him, Mephisto began leading him away.


    "Of course!" Mephisto replied cheerfully, steering Ricky aside, isolating him as Ricky eyed the cunning demon warily.


    "Hey, strange request, I know, but before we talk, mind if I get something to, you know, to wet my whistle?" Ricky asked, having come here with one thing on his mind: a drink.


    *Snap*


    "You''re just in luck since I happen to have some Hellwine." Mephisto said, guiding Ricky to a nearby table and conjuring a bottle with a flourish.


    "We can share-"


    Ricky interrupted Mephisto by snatching the bottle, swiftly tearing the cork off. His inner alcoholic craved the sweet, deceptive taste of the infernal liquid.


    *Gulp*


    *Gulp*


    "Ricky-" Mephisto began, but Ricky held up a finger, silencing him as he continued to drink.


    "Well, Mephisto, it''s certainly a sight to see you again," Asterion said, taking a seat beside them. His eyes were fixed on the demon, his wariness and disdain unmistakable.


    "Ah~" Ricky let out a refreshed sigh, wiping his mouth and putting down the already half drunk bottle of wine.


    "How do you two know each other, anyway?" Ricky asked, glancing between Mephisto and Asterion as the demon immediately adjusted his collar, a flicker of discomfort crossing his face.


    "Well we-"


    "He''s the one who blackmailed my friend after getting the blueprints to the maze that kept me safe from the world," Asterion said, his cold gaze locking onto Mephisto as the demon nervously adjusted his collar, though he maintained his composure.


    "Asterion, how many times must I apologize for such-"


    "Until your throat bleeds in penance." Asterion raised his gaze, Ricky surprised while whistling towards Mehpisot.


    "Man, he f*cking hates you~" Ricky hummed out, laughing before flinching as he gazed at this hell wine.


    "Holy sh*t, this stuff is strong." Ricky hiccuped inbetween, already buzzed after merely drinking half of it.


    "Anyhow Ricky, I-"


    "Alright here''s the deal, we''re going to play three hands of draw poker and if you win then I''ll tell you everything you want to know about me." Ricky suddenly leaned back in his chair, Mephisto''s breath shuttering.


    Unbeknownst to Ricky, his information was highly coveted in the world of information merchants.


    The death of Dracula had sent unforeseen ripples across the world, leaving many with more questions than answers.


    Yet, at the center of it all stood Ricky, alive and holding the answers.


    Everyone wanted something from him: to know his story, to recruit him, or to find ways to eliminate the new Black Knight.


    Even just learning his name would grant Mephisto immense benefits, but the true treasure lay in Ricky''s past.


    His life story held untapped riches, secrets, and power that Mephisto desperately desired to claim for himself so that he could sell them.


    "Ricky, you should think this through." Alexander urged, quickly hopping onto the table. But Ricky shook his head.


    "He already knows my name, and if everything Abraham said about him is true, he''ll figure out my identity whether I like it or not," Ricky sighed, running his hands through his hair as he really didn''t want to deal with this, not after everything he''d just gone through.h.


    Alexander opened his mouth to refute, but then realized it was his own fault for revealing Ricky''s name. He fell silent, retreating to the side.


    "Are you sure trading some of your other treasures wouldn''t sweeten the pot? This pendant, for instance, is among my favorites." Mephisto said, pulling out the lorestone pendant; something Ricky considered nothing more than trash.


    "I cannot believe a renaissance civilization like Cortaj would fall due to internal conflict, resulting from their artistic beliefs, truly a beautiful demise." Mephisto mused, holding the pendant close to his heart as Ricky raised an eyebrow, clearly having forgotten about the pendant.


    "Maybe afterwards but let''s stick to what you''re going to give me when I win." Ricky spread out his arms along with a smile.


    "Oh, I''m also intrigued as to what I''ll give you." Mephisto chuckled, his eyes narrowing as he leaned in closer.


    "You''re going to tell me everything I want to know about the internal powers and their backgrounds within Nazi Germany." Ricky said, surprisingly direct as Mephisto let out a cackling laugh in response, clearly amused by the boldness of the request.


    "Such information is not equal to your identity, Ricky," Mephisto smiled, already using his first name.


    The demon watched with amusement as Ricky drank more of the Hellwine, noticing the crescent moons forming in his eyes as the liquid worked its way through him.


    "Is that so?" Ricky asked, his tone curious. Mephisto, unfortunately, nodded in response. Ricky sighed before standing up.


    "Then it can''t be helped. I guess I''ll have to reveal my identity when I head back to the Vatican, before you can figure it out yourself." Ricky turned away, and Mephisto continued nodding, until the demon''s entire body suddenly froze, stiff as a statue.


    "Let''s go everyone-"


    "W-What do you mean reveal your identity?!" Mephisto laughed out, clearly trying to reel back his anxious expression.


    "Well, I was going to reveal my identity anyway, but I''d rather do it on my own terms than have you spoil it." Ricky said, a hint of petty satisfaction in his voice as Mephisto, a little taken aback, watched as the black knight turned to walk out.


    "How about we trade and-"


    *BAM*


    Asterion suddenly punched Mephisto, sending the demon flying out of the bar as he huffed through his nostrils, clearly agitated, as Ricky, Garfield, and Alexander exchanged confused looks.


    "I-I apologize," Asterion muttered, rubbing the back of his neck while ducking his head.


    "It was like when a human swats a flea, I couldn''t help myself." Asterion sighed, having tried to hold back but failing to do so.


    "Well, that was rude," Mephisto remarked, standing up and brushing the dust off his clothes.


    Without missing a beat, he walked back through the hole that had been made in his body, as though nothing had happened.


    "Anywho, let''s not get hasty Ricky, we can of course make a deal-"


    "But I don''t want to anymore," Ricky shrugged, continuing to walk away.


    Though this disruption had thrown a wrench in his plans, he knew he could always make new ones.


    Things like interruptions or slight setbacks were annoying, but Ricky truly didn''t care and deep down, he always believed that everything would work out for him in the end.


    "Okay, okay, okay, how about I tell you about the internal power-"


    "No."


    "Then how about I tell you about the main figures-"


    "No."


    "Alright, fine, wait!" Mephisot, increasingly angered that everything wasn''t going his way, yelled out causing everyone to stop.


    It was incredibly petty, but Mephisto knew, deep down, that it would take him a week or two to properly figure out who Ricky really was, and everything that came with him.


    In that time, Ricky would have already revealed his identity to the world, and Mephisto would have lost everything he hoped to gain from uncovering Ricky''s background.


    "Fine, I''ll trade you all you desire for your detailed background on the condition you don''t-"


    "No." Ricky laughed, clearly enjoying Mephisto''s frustrated expression as he took another swig of the Hellwine.


    ''Man this is good sh*t.'' Ricky thought, a little surprised at how fulfilling the wine was.


    *SIGH*


    "Fine, I''ll play you for the information if we use my cards-"


    "No, we''re using mine." Ricky pulled out a deck of cards from his back pocket, though they had actually come from the system.


    Mephisto frowned at Ricky''s stubbornness, holding out his hands. Ricky placed the cards into his grasp, but not without raising an eyebrow, sensing something was off.


    "These are normal cards?" Mephisto asked, clearly surprised, as he couldn''t detect anything unusual about the deck.


    "I know, that''s why I want to use my cards," Ricky shrugged, holding back a smile as he pointed toward the deck.


    Mephisto squinted his eyes, sensing there was something more to this than met the eye.


    "Fine, but regardless, I would still like to inquire about items akin to the pendant, regardless of who wins or loses. Deal?" Mephisto held out his hand as Ricky strolled up and grabbed it, his grip firm as he nodded in agreement.


    "Deal."


    "Then let''s play some cards."


    Mephisto turned around, his hands glowing red as he infused energy into the cards before setting them down on the nearby table as Ricky strolled over to it, his gaze focused on the deck.


    "Would you care for another refill of Hellwine?" Mephisto asked, conjuring up another bottle.


    Ricky took a sip before he could change his mind, the warm liquid burning down his throat.


    Smiling at Ricky''s reckless nature, Mephisto flashed a sly grin and Asterion, on the other hand, wore a disgusted expression, cradling Garfield in his arms as the cat nestled into a deep sleep.


    Alexander sat perched on Asterion''s shoulder, looking rather unimpressed by the scene unfolding.


    "Will Ricky preserve?" Alexander asked, glancing at Asterion who was still glaring hatefully at Mephisto.


    "The only thing I know for sure is that nothing is ever, as the humans say, ''cut and dry'' with him." Asterion gaze remained fixed on Mephisto, who gestured toward Ricky, now finishing the last remnants of the first bottle of Hellwine.


    "Would you care to deal or would you allow me?" Mephisto asked, Ricky taking the cards and dealing them out.


    "I''ll do it," Ricky said, dealing five cards to each player, one by one, until they both had their hands.


    Ricky studied his cards before discarding two, while Mephisto hadn''t yet looked at his own as he leaned back confidently, a sly smile curling on his lips.


    "You know, Ricky, you remind me of Abraham in a way," Mephisto remarked, watching him carefully as Ricky raised an eyebrow, intrigued but cautious.


    "I''ve been told," Ricky replied, a hint of discomfort in his voice as he''d always been compared to the old man, but in truth, they were alike in their own unique brand of sh*ttiness.


    "Would you care to add to the pot?" Mephisto asked, pulling out a gleaming gold bar, the weight of it making the stakes feel even higher.


    *Thump*


    Dropping it on the table, it made a loud thud as Mephisot curiously inquired as to what Ricky would bet as the demon smiled widely.


    "I didn''t think you''d want to bet in between-"


    "Would it be draw poker otherwise?" Mephisto smiled, his sharp teeth glinting in the dim light as Ricky stood up, eyeing the gold bar with a calculated gaze.


    "Give me a second." Ricky said, rolling up his sleeve as the tattoo of the dark key manifested, and a swirl of black mist rose, taking form before him.


    As Ricky walked into the storage, Mephisto instinctively moved to follow, but he was abruptly stopped, slamming into an invisible barrier.


    Since Ricky hadn''t given him permission, Mephisto found himself trapped at the helm, only able to watch through the transparent shield, his eyes narrowing in frustration.


    The area was vast, and Mephisto''s eyes widened as he took in the sheer magnitude of the treasures Ricky had accumulated. He was shocked, more so than he''d anticipated.


    Trying to force his way through the barrier, Mephisto put all his power into breaking the invisible gate.


    But the more he pressed against it, the more he was pushed back, as if the barrier was feeding off his frustration.


    Ricky eventually returned, walking back with a couple of gold bars in hand as he saw Mephisto already sitting back down, his posture tight with irritation.


    With a shrug, Ricky plopped down in his seat, dropping one of his own gold bars onto the table, his nonchalant demeanor a stark contrast to the demon''s growing frustration.


    "Raise." Ricky spoke coolly, his eyes steady as Mephisto leaned forward on the table, his grin widening into an intrusive smile.


    "How is it you always surprise me, Ricky? First with my dazzling pendant, and now that space. I must know your secrets." Mephisto snickered, though his gaze remained sharp, calculating, as if studying every movement Ricky made.


    "For free?" Ricky asked, raising an eyebrow in mock confusion and Mephisto shook his head, his fingers rubbing together in a slow, deliberate motion.


    "Of course not." Mephisto replied, his tone smooth and knowing.


    "I can tell you aren''t that type of man. And I''d be willing to reward you for such information." Mephisto finally turned his cards over, his confident smile almost faltering as he gazed at what lay before him.


    The demon''s eyes flickered with momentary surprise, but he quickly masked it with a sharp, calculating expression.


    Mephisto looked at his hand; Jack, two, seven, three, and six, and for a moment, his expression faltered.


    The demon lord had expected something more, something better since the cards didn''t align with his cunning plan.


    The demon''s fingers almost twitched as he stared at them, trying to suppress his frustration.


    On the surface, he maintained a calm front, his smile still in place, but inside, he was in turmoil.


    Mephisto had subtly manipulated the deck, adding his signature touch to ensure a winning hand: a four of a kind.


    But the cards had betrayed him, offering nothing close to what he had hoped for.


    His eyes flickered to Ricky, who was sitting there with an almost unreadable expression as it was clear now that Ricky had been playing a deeper game than Mephisto had anticipated.


    ''He dealt to me first, just as I expected, yet these are not the cards that were supposed to be conjured. He must be cheating.'' Mephisto concluded, tapping the table casually before discarding all but the Jack.


    "Bad hand?" Ricky asked, raising a brow as he slid four new cards to Mephisto and drew three for himself, while Mephisto simply smiled in response.


    "Well, it wasn''t exactly a good one," Mephisto replied, his tone lacking its usual nuance as he accepted the cards but his confidence wavered again when he glanced down.


    A four, five, eight, and nine joined his solitary Jack, leaving him with little to work with as Mephisto let out a chuckle, masking his irritation.


    "I''d like to raise the pot." Ricky placed a brass telescope onto the table, its polished surface gleaming under the dim light.


    Mephisto''s gaze narrowed, a spark of intrigue flickering in his eyes as he took in the new addition.


    "This baby can-"


    "Gaze through any illusion," Mephisto murmured, nearly able to guess its enchantment, which piqued Ricky''s curiosity.


    The demon''s eyes had shifted, narrow slits glowing red as he honed in on Ricky''s cards.


    But before he could act further, Asterion pulled up a chair right beside him, his gaze firmly locked onto Mephisto.


    Reluctantly, the demon dispelled the power in his eyes, grumbling under his breath at the interruption.


    "Are you going to meet my bet or fold?" Ricky asked, a sly smile playing at his lips as he tilted his head.


    "Fold." Mephisto chuckled lightly, placing his cards on the table but as Ricky reached for the deck, the demon''s hand darted out to stop him.


    "May I deal this round?" Mephisto asked with a pleasant smile as Ricky gave a casual shrug and handed the deck over, watching the demon''s every move with a hint of intrigue.


    "Thank you." Mephisto nodded politely, watching Ricky pull away his twenty gold bars as he leaned back with a satisfied grin.


    Mephisto began shuffling the deck with practiced elegance, the cards moving smoothly between his fingers, while Asterion''s sharp gaze tracked his every movement and yet, the demon remained calm, his expression unreadable.


    Ricky watched closely as he was dealt five cards, fingers tapping thoughtfully on the table as he paused before lifting them, then leaned back, his face betraying nothing.


    "All in," Ricky declared, a grin playing on his lips as he took a sip of hell wine, sliding every last chip and trinket he had on the table. Mephisto raised a brow, tilting his head in mild surprise.


    "Are you sure you don''t want to check your cards first?" Mephisto asked, a hint of amusement in his tone as Ricky glanced at his face-down cards, then shook his head confidently.


    "Nah." Ricky replied with a shrug, settling back in his seat while downing another sip of the Hell wine.


    Mephsito nodded, discarding two cards before taking them, slightly glancing to Ricky who was completely uncaring.


    "Hmmmm, then would this suffice as a raise?" Mephisto placed a glimmering green stone on the table with a delicate motion, his expression laced with mischief.


    "An emerald?" Ricky tilted his head, raising a brow, only for Mephisto to chuckle, his laughter tinged with arrogance.


    "This is a Norn Stone, a direct gateway into Asgard," Mephisto said, gesturing to the glowing emerald with a dramatic flair as Ricky tilted his head, then shrugged nonchalantly.


    With a casual motion, Ricky plopped the telescope onto the table like it was nothing more than trash, his gaze now fixed on the strange, glimmering stone.


    "Alright, ready?" Ricky asked, about to flip his cards with a nonchalant expression.


    Mephisto, however, couldn''t resist his greedy glance at the telescope, eyes narrowing in interest as he watched Ricky''s next move.


    "Straight, flush," Mephisto declared, revealing his hand. Asterion squinted, carefully observing, making sure not to be too flashy in his reactions to avoid any suspicion of cheating.


    Mephisto laid down the five, six, seven, eight, and nine of diamonds, a beautiful straight flush as Ricky raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised by the hand.


    "Ah, ah, ah, no take backs¡ª" Mephisto began to reach for his cards, only for Ricky to raise an eyebrow and stop him mid-motion.


    "I was only surprised at the coincidence," Ricky replied casually, then shamelessly laid down a diamond royal straight flush.


    Mephisto was left utterly gobsmacked, his usual confidence slipping as he stared at the hand in front of him.


    "I mean, what are the odds?" Ricky laughed, snickering to himself as he watched Mephisto''s already flushed face grow even redder.


    "Thanks for the stone though." Ricky then picked up the stone, curiously admiring it.


    "Asterion, you think this is worth a pretty penny?" Ricky asked the minotaur, who couldn''t suppress a wide grin as he looked at Mephisto''s frozen, stunned expression.


    "You cheated, I know that you cheated because-" Mephisot immediately accused, pointing his finger at him with a glimmer of red in his eyes.


    "You cheated?" Ricky interrupted, tilting his head as Mephisto quickly masked his next words with a forced laugh as he leaned back, casually observing the demon.


    "We shook on playing a hand of cards. Nowhere in your words did you specify that neither of us could cheat. If I did cheat, which you can''t prove, that''s just part of the game." Ricky shrugged nonchalantly, the demon''s gaze fixed on him with an intensity that only deepened.


    Mephisto wanted to counter, but he had deliberately left out any stipulations about cheating, ensuring that once he won, Ricky couldn''t protest.


    Now, however, he found himself in the metaphorical shoes that Ricky was meant to wear, caught in his own trap, unable to escape the consequences of his actions as Asterion peered over his shoulder.


    "Yeah, didn''t think I''d catch that little slip-up, did you?" Ricky wiped his chin, a smirk playing on his lips as Mephisto''s underestimation only seemed to make him more smug.


    "Who are you anyway?" MMephisto crossed his arms, narrowing his eyes while Ricky looked over to Asterion.


    "I wouldn''t advise spilling any more information, demons are very tricky and always find a way to form or find a loophole." Asterion said, holding up his hand, and Ricky nodded.


    "You''ll find out eventually but right now, uphold your end of the deal and tell me what I want to know."


    Mephisto frowned as he gazed at Asterion standing beside Ricky as he knew any tricks he tried to pull would be swiftly rooted out by the minotaur, forcing him to bite the bullet.


    "There is a humans saying that says what goes around-"


    "Comes around, whatever. Cough up what you know." Ricky waved his hand dismissively, Mephisto clearly displeased by the similarity to Abraham.


    "Fine, there are currently four organizations at the centerfold of the Nazi campaign that is propping up Hitler," Mephisto sighed, clicking his tongue slightly as he leaned back in his seat.


    "Currently, they are Hydra, Thule Society, Hellfire Club, and the Berlin Continental." Mephisto revealed, Ricky scrunching his brows at this since he still had the card hsi pops gave to him.


    "For Hydra, Wolfgang Von Striker-"


    Wolfgang Von striker, born in the twilight years of the 19th century, hailed from an old Prussian noble line that had retreated to the ancestral Strucker Castle in Bavaria after the Franco-Prussian War.


    As a young man, he emerged as a fencing champion at Heidelberg, a prodigy known for both his fierce precision and ruthless flair.


    His face bore deep scars, marks of honor from his duels, that mirrored the hardened, grim visage of the rising Nazi elite.


    During World War I, Wolfgang fought for Germany, enduring the brutal trenches and relentless battles. In 1916, he encountered the mysterious artifact known as the Momentary Princess, an object rumored to appear and vanish at fixed intervals through time.


    The moment he touched it, a vision unfolded, a glimpse of his future that planted the seeds of his destiny.


    This fateful encounter set him on a path toward Hydra, as he became convinced that its power held the key to realizing the vision he had seen.


    "Strucker''s actions during that period were buried deep within Hydra''s shadows for the next two decades." Mephisto chuckled darkly, his mouth nearly watering at the thought of yet another world war.


    "But the intriguing part? Is what happened when the Nazi Party clawed its way from the rubble of defeated Germany." Mephisto laughter was laced with anticipation, already savoring the spoils he''d claimed from the last war and eager for the chaos to come.


    "When the Nazi Party emerged, Strucker was one of its founding members. And the best part? He''d risen to the rank of a Hydra leader." Mephisto remarked, almost in admiration.


    "Quite a feat for a mere mortal, with neither remarkable power nor distinctive traits." Mephisto spoke and when he did, there was a hint of grudging respect in his voice, acknowledging the sheer cunning it took for a man with no inherent gifts to ascend to such influence.


    "The only catch," Mephisto continued, a sly smile tugging at his lips.


    "Is that Strucker''s position within Hydra is directly tethered to the Nazi Party. So, if the Nazis fall, he falls with them." Mephisto chuckled, relishing the irony of Strucker''s precarious power.


    "All his efforts hinge on a single, brittle thread and if they crumble, so does he. These types of power dynamics are so fun to watch rise then fall." Mephisto smiled widely, relishing the era he was living in to its fullest degree.


    "For Thule Society-"


    *Sigh*


    "Honestly, the Thule Society is an organization composed of rejects." Mephsito sighed, leaning his head on his hand while clearly uninterested in this topic.


    "Essentially, the Thule Society-"


    The occultist order that would later be known as the Thule Society traces its roots to an ancient, nameless lineage of sorcerer-scientists casted out from their own orders, predating and outlasting the cultures that birthed them.


    Driven by a singular purpose, they sought to rise above mortality itself, wielding the forces of life and death as they pursued their vision of godlike power.


    For nearly 6,000 years, they explored paths to immortality and manipulated every sphere of human existence; history, politics, science, and magic alike.


    The Thule Society, now bearing the Nazi insignia on their shoulders, has shifted its focus to a new pursuit: the acquisition of ancient artifacts.


    Their ideology has evolved, holding that true power and the key to eternal victory, and perhaps even eternal life, lie within mystical relics scattered across the world.


    These objects, they believe, contain unimaginable forces that could transcend conventional warfare and lift them beyond mortal limitations.


    Their relentless search has become an obsession, rooted in the belief that these enchanted artifacts will secure not only the Nazi vision but their own ascendance over time and fate itself.


    Even now, they have disguised themselves as archaeologists, scattering across the globe to excavate and uncover these mystical artifacts.


    "For the Hellfire Club, well, they are a fairly new order of wealthy and elite mutants, their agendas centered around strengthening their own power." Mephisto mused, a wicked smile curving his lips as he reveled in the shift to a topic he found far more entertaining.


    The Hellfire Club traces its origins to 18th-century England, where it began as an exclusive society for the British elite, a space where influential figures could indulge in pleasures beyond the moral norms of their time and quietly consolidate their hold on economic and political power.


    Rather than overt conquest or domination, the club''s ambition lies in wielding influence behind the scenes, steering events through political maneuvering and economic leverage.


    Throughout history, they have been linked to wars, discreet assassinations, and shifting alliances.


    Governed by an elusive Inner Circle, the club''s leadership structure follows the pieces of a chessboard, with its most powerful members assuming titles like Black King and White Queen, followed by trusted subordinates, the Black and White Bishops and Knights.


    "However, out of the four heads that dub themselves the Black and White, king and queens; only three have dipped their hands within the pond of the Nazi party." Mephisto raised his four fingers with his long nails protruding upwards.


    "The first is the Black King, Sebastion Shaw." Mephisto lowered a finger, his eyes forming crescent moons at this particular figure.


    Sebastian Shaw is a mutant with the ability to absorb nearly any form of energy, converting it into immense physical strength.


    He can channel this stored power into a devastating punch, an explosive release through touch, or even a ground-shaking stomp, making him a formidable force in any confrontation.


    Shaw''s involvement within the party is for pure selfish reasons which revolves around further his own power within the financial world and his own mutant power.


    In the financial world, Sebastian Shaw controls a network of prisons and newly established ''concentration camps'' under an alias, exploiting a free labor force to mass-produce goods that he sells at exorbitant markups.


    By leveraging these prisoners as pawns in his wider game, he steadily accumulates wealth and influence, strengthening his grip over both economic and political landscapes.


    Shaw''s hunger for power is insatiable, his ambitions driving him relentlessly upward in pursuit of new heights and greater strength.


    "The second is the White King, a title that seems to pass to a new mutant every year, currently held by Nathaniel Essex." Mephisto lowered another finger, shrugging indifferently at this one.


    "Much like Shaw, Essex is obsessed with advancing the mutant gene, a process he calls the Essex Factor." Mephisto displayed clear boredom with this topic, letting out a soft sigh.


    Nathaniel Essex is posing as a scientist, conducting biological experiments on children under the guise of curing diseases, all while secretly advancing his research on the Essex Factors.


    Earning the nickname ''Nosferatu'' from the captive children at Auschwitz due to his ghostly pale skin, Essex found the camps a grimly convenient source for genetic samples.


    He lured the children with candy, offering it in exchange for small vials of their blood, a twisted form of bribery that allowed him to collect samples unnoticed and further his dark experiments.


    "However, he''s rather dull, spending all his time locked away in a lab, staring at blood samples." Mephisto sighed lightly, flicking some lint off his sleeve.


    "Now for the queens; the first being the white queen, Emma frost." Mephisto''s intrigue sparked once more, lowering another finger.


    Emma Frost was born into a prominent Boston mercantile family, descended from English settlers who arrived in the 1600s and played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War.


    A family dispute pushed Emma Frost into a life she never imagined, stripping, which eventually led her to cross paths with Sebastian Shaw.


    It''s said that one of Shaw''s associates made the fatal mistake of going too far, leaving him brain dead as a result.


    Rather than seek revenge, Shaw saw potential in her and invited her into his world, into the Hell fire club.


    Over the years, Frost steadily climbed through the ranks, her competition mysteriously disappearing one by one, until she finally became the White Queen.


    Now, she runs an information network, one that pales in comparison to Mephisto''s, providing the Nazis with vital intelligence for a hefty price.


    "However, the last leader, the Black Queen, and arguably the most dangerous member, Selene Gallio, isn''t interested in the war in a sense." Mephisto lowered his last finger, his gaze shifting to Ricky, who recalled the name, having been warned about her by Abraham.


    "Selene doesn''t truly care for material wealth but instead, power in its purest form." Mephisto''s eyes formed crescent moons as he looked at Ricky sipping on the hellwine.


    "Selene is what some call a collector, having built a large repertoire of powerful mutants under her hidden country." Mephisto then crossed his fingers, his smile growing wider as he looked at Ricky.


    "And now, I''ve heard she''s set her covetous eyes on you," Mephisto''s eyes darkened as his smile stretched across his face, but Ricky simply crossed his arms, unfazed.


    "Anyhow, let''s finally talk about the juiciest one; the Berlin Continental, which has been run by the Zemo family for generations." Mephisto''s smile widened, practically giddy with excitement, fully aware of the drastic repercussions.


    The Berlin Continental was more than just a luxury hotel; it was the nerve center of Europe''s most clandestine and dangerous underworld dealings.


    Established in the early 12th century, it had become a legend in its own right, not just for its opulence but for the power and influence that coursed through its marble halls.


    Operated by the Zemo family for generations, it served as both a haven and a battleground for the criminal elite.


    Each Continental operates differently, tailored to its own unique environment, yet all are bound by the same overarching authority: the High Table.


    While each Continental maintains its own distinct operations and rules, they all adhere to the unspoken neutrality demanded by the High Table, a delicate balance that has kept the underworld in check for generations.


    Until now, that is.


    Baron Heinrich Zemo has shattered the delicate balance of the underworld by committing an unforgivable act against the High Table.


    In an unprecedented move, he has pledged his loyalty not only to the Nazi party but to the Berlin Continental itself, binding the establishment to a cause that directly opposes the principles of neutrality upheld by the High Table.


    While it is not unheard of for a Continental to go rogue, history has shown that no one has ever escaped the wrath of the High Table.


    Yet, oddly enough, the High Table remains eerily silent on the matter as whispers circulate that, behind closed doors, they are quietly preparing to eliminate the Berlin Continental, but for now, no official action has been taken.


    "And that concludes our deal," Mephisto said, expecting some kind of reaction, perhaps a grand applause but instead, Ricky simply set the empty bottle of wine down with a quiet clink.


    "That was a lot. Good thing Asterion remembered everything for me, right?" Ricky glanced over at Asterion, who nodded silently from the side.


    "I have perfect recollection. I shall remember," Asterion reassured, dispelling any concerns as Ricky let out a relieved sigh.


    "Good, cause this Hell wine is fucking me up. I mean, Jesus." Ricky glanced at the bottle, still on his second, yet already completely wasted.


    "Speaking of Hell wine, care to continue our little game?" Mephisto asked, shuffling the cards from Ricky''s inventory, his eyes briefly lingering on the empty wine bottle before returning to Ricky with a mischievous glint.


    "Yeah, why not."


    20 minutes later,


    "H-How?" Mephisto stammered, his entire body shaking in shock and disbelief, as Ricky casually set twenty bottles of Hell wine into his inventory before retrieving one and popping off the cork.


    "How could you possibly have gotten five royal flushes in a row?" Mephisto asked, looking up with a mixture of frustration and disbelief.


    The hell spawn knew Ricky had cheated, but no matter how hard he searched, there was no way to prove it, Ricky''s tricks were just too flawless seemingly trumping his own cheating.


    "It has to be these cards, but it can''t be-.....they''re just regular cards, literally human cards." Mephisto stared at the Jack of Diamonds in his hands, his frown deepening.


    Mephisto''s eyes strained as he examined the card, but no matter how he looked at it, it was just an ordinary playing card, nothing extraordinary about it.


    In all honesty, Ricky had simply swapped the cards he wanted with others still in his inventory, a subtle sleight of hand that Mephisto couldn''t even begin to fathom.


    "Well, Mephisto, I know we agreed to trade, but let''s put that off for another time cause I''m definitely not in any state to trade or even think straight." Ricky sighed, gently pulling the card from Mephisto''s trembling fingers and pocketing it.


    "B-But-"


    *BAM*


    The door slammed shut behind them, leaving Mephisto alone in the dimly lit tavern, surrounded by the empty bottles of Hellwine.


    The demon stared at the mess before him, frustration boiling in his chest as the twenty bottles, all consumed in a futile attempt to decipher Ricky, and not a single piece of evidence to show for it.


    The demon couldn''t shake the gnawing sense of defeat, the unsettling feeling that he had been outplayed by someone who shouldn''t have been able to outwit him.


    "RICKYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!"


    Mephisto''s roar echoed through the tavern, so loud and filled with rage that it could be heard even outside, sending birds scattering into the distance.


    But Ricky, unfazed, continued down the trail, his steps steady and unhurried.


    The night air was cool against his skin, and the chaos he had left behind seemed like a distant memory as he walked further away from the tavern, leaving Mephisto to stew in his frustration.


    For the next few hours, Ricky wandered around the castle grounds, taking in the serene beauty of the landscape.


    Asterion, Alexander, and Garfield walked alongside him, their laughter and lighthearted banter/quips filling the air.


    There was no grand purpose to their stroll, no urgent mission or looming danger as it was simply a moment of shared enjoyment, a time for them to mess around and enjoy each other''s company.


    For Ricky, these small, unremarkable moments held a special significance, though he often didn''t acknowledge it.


    Ricky had spent so much of his life burdened by responsibilities, struggles, and the constant weight of his past, but in these fleeting moments, he was free.


    He was allowed to simply be, to forget the looming disasters of his world and appreciate the simplicity of a carefree day.


    As they walked along the winding trail, Ricky found himself taking slow, deliberate glances at the world around him; at the towering trees, the gentle flow of a nearby stream, and the distant peaks rising in the background.


    These were the moments he rarely took time to savor, but now, in this fleeting calm, he allowed himself to be present.


    In a depressing way, Ricky knew the journey ahead would demand more of him, there would be times when he had to rise to the occasion, but for now, he could pause, breathe, and simply be.


    Somehow, Ricky found himself leaning over a stone ledge, his gaze lost in the sweeping vista before him.


    The others had drifted away, and he hadn''t noticed, too absorbed in the breathtaking view.


    The sun was setting, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape, its rays stretching across the rugged terrain as it sank beneath the horizon.


    "Why do you have to go back? What''s so great about New York compared to being here with me?" Lilith''s voice was soft, almost a whisper, as she appeared behind Ricky.


    Lilith''s delicate hands wrapped around him, and she rested her head gently on his back, her touch warm and inviting.


    Ricky was completely sh*t faced at this moment, but even so and without warning, Ricky reached up and plucked a leaf from the air, his fingers brushing against it with a certain calmness.


    "I''ll give you everything, even all the sweet time you could ever ask for~" Lilith purred, her arms sliding around him as she drew him closer.


    "Because I don''t want to be a leaf anymore," Ricky murmured, the words feeling right as he stared at the leaf in his hand, then turned his gaze to Lilith.


    It was as if in this moment, everything suddenly clicked in his mind, though he couldn''t quite explain why.


    "A leaf, huh?" Lilith asked incredulously, watching as Ricky rubbed the wilted, brownish-green leaf between his fingers.


    "It was something my pops said to me before I left." Ricky said with a slight smile, his fingers gently rubbing the wilted leaf.


    "He said, ''I thought you were supposed to be the roots of this family, but right now, you''re just a leaf blowing in the wind.'' I didn''t get it at the time, but I actually get it now." Ricky glanced at the leaf, remembering Lucky''s words clearly.


    "For the longest time that I can even remember I''ve been like a leaf, being in people''s lives for a season, taking what I need, and when it gets cold or the wind blows I''m just gone." Ricky then released the leaf, watching it fly along with the wind.


    "I thought being on the move was what I wanted, f*cking around in the wind but now, I just don''t think I want that anymore." Ricky chuckled, leaning on the terrace and gazing at the sun.


    "Even now, even after everything I''ve done, I''m not even what I want to be since it feels like I''m just a branch." Ricky tried to find the words, but he knew that staying here would never let him be the roots Lucky wanted for him.


    "I''ve learned the hard way that a branch is stronger than a leaf, sure," Ricky continued, his voice thoughtful, leaning his head on his hands.


    "But I''m still figuring out what I want to be before I fully commit to any path. I had to test them out first, to see if any path could truly hold my weight. I might stick with this one for a few seasons, but I can''t shake the feeling that if I keep going down this road, right here right now, I''ll just break away when life gets tough." Ricky sighed, scratching his head, feeling like everything would be for nothing if he didn''t go back to New York.


    "What I want, what I truly want, is to go back to my roots," Ricky said with a newfound clarity, a laugh escaping him as the realization dawned.


    "I want to go back to New York and be everything a root is." Ricky felt as if the weight that had been pressing on his chest seemed to lift as he spoke, the truth finally settling within him before sitting up.


    "A root? What the hell is a root, Ricky?" Lilith asked, crossing her arms, her gaze fixed on him.


    Ricky, with a crazed smile on his face, stared at the setting sun as everything Lucky had said to him suddenly clicked into place.


    "Root people are very important to the whole f*cking tree because they don''t do things to be seen. Their only wish is to support you and help you live a strong life, and even if you go through a difficult time, they will hold you up, and love you just the way you are." Ricky smiled at Lilith, walking over to the vampire who was caught off guard by the one person she didn''t expect to throw down such metaphors.


    "Listen Lilith, I know I can be really self-centered and a plain idiot at other times, but wherever you really need it, need me, I''ll be there for you. This isn''t going to be goodbye because I''m going to see you again, it''s a promise." Ricky pulled Lilith close to him, wrapping his hands around her waist only for the vampire to turn her head and push away.


    "W-Whatever, I only was using you for your power, don''t get any idea''s you manwhore." Lilith turned away, strutting out of the terrace with a reddened and blushing face.


    Turning back to the low rising sun, Ricky had finally found what he wanted to be in this life as he closed his eyes for a moment.


    Ricky wasn''t perfect and it was clear, his imperfections shined brighter than all the things that made him so loveable.


    Even if the entire world saw him as evil, Ricky didn''t care.


    Ricky''s life had been filled with people who were rooted, people who stayed grounded no matter what, and he''d taken advantage of them at every turn.


    But now, standing here, he hated himself more than ever after really thinking about it.


    Like in his past life, there had always been people willing to give him fifth and sixth chances, yet time and time again, he''d ruined it all whenever things got tough.


    Ricky wasn''t going to be that guy anymore and looking back, he wasn''t the old drunkard who couldn''t even attend his own friend''s funeral without skipping out mid-way, running away when it got cold like a leaf.


    At that moment, Ricky made a promise to himself: he wasn''t going to run from his people anymore.


    Ricky was going to be the leader they deserved, he would face everything he had once fled from and finally become the man everyone knew he was capable of being.


    "Ricky?" Rachael called softly, approaching after overhearing part of their conversation.


    "Hey Rachael." Ricky laughed out, spreading out his arms at the surprise.


    "What brings you to my moment of revelation?" Ricky asked with a smirk, as Rachael chuckled, clearly aware she''d overheard his conversation.


    "Well, I''m here to tell you that I''m leaving tomorrow," Rachael said with a smile, stepping up beside him.


    "Oh yeah?" Ricky asked, raising an eyebrow, wondering if he''d be looking at a future farmer in Nebraska.


    "No, I''m not going to be a farmer, but that''s the beauty of it, I don''t know what I''m going to be," Rachael replied, her gaze drifting toward the sun.


    For the first time in her life, she had nothing planned, no set path ahead, and yet that uncertainty made her smile.


    "If you''re ever in New York, give me a holler, and I''ll show you around," Ricky said, nudging her gently.


    Ricky leaned his head back, his eyes resting on her as the sunlight highlighted the scar on her face.


    "You know, I''m proud of you." Rachael said suddenly, catching Ricky off guard as she turned to face him.


    "I know it was never my place to judge," Rachael said, her voice softening in a downcasted way.


    "But three years ago, all I saw was a coward, someone who just wanted to drop everything and run away." Rachael rubbed the side of her arm, watching Ricky''s caught-off-guard expression, then gently tapped her cheek.


    "But now I see a man who stands firm in his beliefs, unyielding even in the face of uncertainty," Rachael continued, her gaze steady on him with a warm smile.


    "And I truly admire how much you''ve grown." Rachael noticed Ricky holding back a smile, trying not to let her words affect him too deeply, but she knew he needed to hear them.


    "Three years ago, the old you wouldn''t have risked your life in the face of uncertainty." Rachael said, her voice soft yet firm before taking a step forward.


    "But you threw it all away to move forward." Rachael gently cupped his face with her hands, holding him there for a moment.


    "You slayed Dracula, be proud of yourself-" Rachael chuckled, showing a warm smile before Ricky let the alcohol take the wheel and moved in.


    Taking her lips into his own, Ricky couldn''t stop himself as everything about that moment felt right.


    To his surprise, Rachael leaned in, matching his intensity as their embrace was tangible, the warmth between them growing as the setting sun bathed them in a golden hue.


    They held each other there on the terrace, savoring the silence, before slowly, reluctantly, breaking the kiss.


    Their breaths mingled in the quiet space between them, eyes locked in a gaze filled with nothing but pure desire.


    The world seemed to fade around them as the intensity of the moment consumed them both, their connection palpable in the lingering air.


    "Do you wanna ride the train to-"


    "Shhh, just come with me," Rachael whispered, not wanting Ricky to ruin the moment with some cheesy remark.


    Rachael gently took his hand, leading him back into the bedroom and Ricky simply gave himself a playful shrug.


    "Well, alright then."

 Chapter 109: Chapter 106: A Feral Desire (R18)

    Chapter 109: Chapter 106: A Feral Desire (R18)


    ?


    "God damn."


    In his drunken haze, with the hell wine severely blurring his senses, Ricky felt himself yanked onto the bed.


    The world spun around him, his vision somersaulting as he landed, disoriented, on the rumpled sheets.


    There, at the edge of the bed, he saw Rachael, her eyes suddenly gleaming in a golden, wolf- like touch that were completely fixed on him with an intense gaze.


    Slowly, she began to crawl toward him, each movement deliberate and seductive, a quiet promise lingering in the air between them.


    In the next moment, Rachael was on top of him, her ragged breath warm against his skin as her hands slid under his shirt, slowly pushing it upward to reveal his chest.


    She bit her lip, her face flushed but not with embarrassment, but with a fierce and predatory excitement that shimmered in her golden eyes, as if she were savoring every heartbeat between them.


    "Woah." Ricky murmured, wide-eyed as Rachael tore his clothes away, each rip exposing more of him to her hungry gaze.


    With every clawed movement, every new inch of skin revealed, her breath quickened, coming out in short, heated huffs that hinted at her growing anticipation.


    Caught off guard was an understatement as the way Rachael''s emotions surged, raw and unrestrained, took Ricky by surprise.


    He had expected something more restrained, something like his encounters with Lilith but it was different, almost the exact opposite.


    Rachael looked at him like a predator hungerly gazing down at a slab of meat, her gaze filled with a fierce hunger, as if this werewolf intended to devour every inch of him.


    "I can''t take it anymore," Rachael breathed, her eyes locking fiercely onto Ricky''s.


    The tension in her body was palpable, her movements restless as if her own clothes were a cage.


    In one swift motion, she grabbed at her clothes, ripping them off in a frenzied release, casting every layer aside without hesitation.


    "Woah, wait Rachael, don''t you want to take it slow-" Ricky''s voice was a slurred mumble, his attempt at restraint softened by the haze of alcohol.


    But before he could even process his words, Rachael''s hands moved with certainty, tugging at his waistband.


    With one swift motion, she freed his cock as it flopped around, her fingers closing around him with a slow, deliberate grip before clutching with a firm grasp and smiling widely when it twitched within her palm.


    "No time~" Rachael breathed, her voice a hushed, urgent murmur as she held his cock steady, her eyes locked onto his cock.


    Ricky watched as Rachael grinned, her anticipation palpable as she positioned him between her folds, already craving more.


    Without hesitation, she slammed her hips down, the sound of their skin slapping into one another echoing through the room.


    "A-A-AH~" Rachael gasped, her body shivering out with incredible pleasure as her teeth clenched as her head jerked back, a hot breath escaping her lips.


    Rachael felt Ricky fill her completely to her very brim, the intense pleasure pulsing through her as her walls expanded and contracted around him.


    Her yellow wolf-like eyes locked onto Ricky as she took a deep breath, savoring the tightness that gripped and pulsed around him.


    Her hands gradually moved from his abs, slowly gliding up his chest before resting on either side of Ricky''s head and when he opened his eyes, he met Rachael''s smiling gaze.


    "My training made me VERY flexible," Rachael huffed, a maddening blush creeping across her face.


    "Unlike that undead b*tch, I can take you all without whining." Rachael leaned in, pressing her lips to Ricky''s as his hands slowly glided across her soft, warm skin.


    At first, the kiss was slow, but Rachael wasn''t satisfied with just that as she became more aggressive, pressing heavily into what was meant to be a soft kiss.


    Ricky was about to flip her onto her back, but Rachael pushed him back down, breaking the kiss as she raised her face to meet his gaze.


    "You can have your way with me all you want, but I want to show you how sincere I am first." Rachael bit her lip, half-expecting Ricky to object but instead, she watched as he guided his hands to her waist.


    "Then I hope you ride me with all your heart," Ricky joked, chuckling as Rachael responded by raising her body, slowly rising with a determined look.


    Ricky watched as his cock, already slobbered in her juices, was slowly released from the fierce clutches of her folds, feeling her squeeze down when she rose, her movements inching up to his tip.


    "I will~"


    *CLAP*


    Rachael slammed her body back onto him, willingly impaling herself as electricity surged through her, feeling him deep inside as if his tip kissed her very core.


    "AHHHHH~" Rachael couldn''t hold back the deep moan that escaped her luscious red lips, tilting her head back as her blonde hair flowed through the air.


    Her stomach seemed to shift, the outline of his cock faintly visible beneath her thin skin as it bulged, creating the impression of him crawling through her.


    As if she was possessed, she raised her waist again, her hands almost flying around but Ricky quickly interlocked them with his own, steadying her movements.


    Rachael didn''t even have time to register the heartfelt gesture before she slammed her body back into Ricky with one fierce, aggressive stroke.


    *CLAP*


    Her ass smacked against his thighs, her pleasure receptors intensifying with each movement as her teeth clenched tightly.


    Shivering intensely, Rachael''s body responded eagerly while registering his cock fill her once more, drooling out and soaking Ricky''s thighs with her sweet nectar.


    "Oh Lord, forgive me, but this feels so good-" Rachael cried out towards the heavens, ruining her purity with such eager intent while her eyes fluttered in pleasure as waves of sensation


    overwhelmed her.


    Her hands gripped Ricky''s tightly, her back arching as she struggled to maintain balance with the only saving grace being his cock that he willingly impaled herself on.


    Rachael pressed her arms together, squishing her perky tits out as a trickle of sweat slid down the curves of her body and into her cleavage.


    It slowly traveled down her stomach, leaving a glistening trail as it dripped onto Ricky''s


    abdomen.


    Ricky couldn''t look away from the image of Rachael, tears streaming down her folds as she called out to God, her lips curled into a sleazy smile while she rode him.


    It wasn''t that he was too stunned to speak; he simply had nothing to add to her words, as he was fully immersed in the sight before him.


    The uptight, snarky, arrogant, and downright hateful Rachael was on the verge of tears,


    crying out in joy as she swallowed him whole.


    ''This is weirdly therapeutic.'' Ricky let out a content sigh, relishing in the warm, tight


    wrapping sensation that had ensnared him.


    Despite the countless times she''d infuriated him, the feeling of his cock melting under the warmth and pressure seemed to wash away all the hatred.


    *CLAP*


    Without warning, Rachael lifted herself and slammed back down, both of them completely


    lost in their own world of pleasure, each ravaged and consumed by the vices of the other


    Ragged breaths escaped from both of them before a fierce, unrelenting sound of skin slamming against skin filled the room.


    *CLAP*


    *CLAP*


    *CLAP*


    Every motion, every maneuver of her hips, made Rachael even more relentless, as an addictive hunger rose to the surface, driving her to chase this sudden high of pleasure.


    An upward pursuit, seeking that rush of climax, before Rachael descended again, driving


    herself downward to the next step.


    *CLAP*


    "AHH~" Rachael screeched out a moan, her mind in a frenzy as her body trembled, nearly


    seizuring around Ricky''s cock.


    Her body trembled as the sensation of lust coursed through her, seeping into every nerve ending, rippling out in wave after wave which sprayed out of her.


    Soaking Ricky''s abdomen in her release, Rachael was determined to dehydrate herself,


    chasing a seismic climax on the monstrosity that was his cock.


    "I-I NEED IT~" Rachael growled, her eyes flashing a deeper gold as she had completely lost herself to this monopolizing sensation that was pleasure.


    "What do you need?" Ricky asked, his voice a devil''s whisper, egging on those monopolizing thoughts as the veins in his neck bulged from the heavenly sensation wrapping around him.


    "I NEED YOUR F*CKING COCK!" Rachael screamed, actually cursing as she sought to break


    every she''d ever set, completely lost in Ricky''s grasp.


    *CLAP*


    Her ass collided with his thighs, a spray of nectar following as her folds swallowed him whole


    in one swift motion.


    It was her first time acting this way, training her body this way, subjecting herself to such


    sins, and yet, there was only one response


    "AHHHHHH~" Rachael moaned out her response, releasing all the pent-up stress that had built up throughout her entire existence.


    Everything that had chained her; her name, her purpose, her destiny, seemed to wash away with every release from her folds.


    It was as if she were shedding her ugly skin before Ricky''s eyes, her lust giving way to the beautiful woman she had always been meant to be.


    It was then that she felt a sudden build-up in the pit of her stomach, draining all the pleasure


    that had been permeating her every nerve, as her eyes suddenly bulged open.


    *CLAP* Her waist instinctively slammed down, her movements more vicious than ever as she sought


    to hold onto this feeling, to be consumed by the pleasure. Rachael''s movements were fanatic, so intense that Ricky felt his own pleasure building, his


    balls tightening with each thrust.


    Gritting his teeth, Ricky watched as Rachael, her face beet red and almost drooling, gazed down at him with heart-filled eyes, slamming her waist down once more.


    It was then, as Rachael''s waist slammed down on his cock once more, that she felt the sudden


    build-up begin to stir within her, her body instinctively rising. "A-Ah-" Rachael''s breath hitched as she felt the flower within her slowly bloom, only for


    Ricky''s hands to suddenly grip her waist and slam her back down. "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH~" Rachael screeched, her moan maddening as her blooming climax was torn away by a tsunami of pleasure crashing down on her mind,


    straining her throat.


    Her pussy seemingly cried out in joy, draining, releasing her nectar in a warm rush that


    cascaded around Ricky like a fountain as he gritted his teeth as his body responded, his cock madly twitched in response.


    It was then that Rachale''s teeth clenched, her body tensing as Ricky released his entire load,, the warmth of his cum filling her, surging deep inside her, swirling within her womb. The heat of his cum and the overwhelming tide of her climax collided, sending Rachale into a shattered state, her body quaking as she arched her head back, surrendering to the intensity.


    No sound escaped her lips, only shallow breaths as her lungs struggled to squish out the overwhelming demand, each inhale forced and shallow.


    Rachale stood atop his cock like a statue, her body rigid from the wave of pleasure crashing and swirling within her, before she finally collapsed forward, undone by the intensity.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Rachale''s eyes were clouded with haze, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she collapsed against Ricky''s chest, her lips barely grazing his pectoral in her exhausted state.


    However, much like Ricky earlier, her world spun around her until she found herself gazing up


    at him, disoriented but tethered to the moment.


    The flexibility she had bragged about earlier was now fully put to the test, her legs planted on


    either side of her body as Ricky''s hold twisted her into a pretzel-like shape. "Now, for round two," Ricky huffed, sobering up after being milked by Rachael of his


    drunkening and disordered state.


    There was no need to hold back, no reason to go slow or feel out each other''s hearts since it


    was obvious what they wanted, what they needed.


    Their gazes remained locked, silently demanding a raw, skin slapping connection through the relentless ramming of their bodies, speaking louder than any heartfelt talk could. Ricky wound his hips, his hands gripping her legs tighter, pressing them deeper into the


    sheets, before driving his entire body into the next powerful thrust. "Haaaaaaaa~" Rachale squeaked out a long, drawn-out moan, her eyes shooting back at the


    feeling of her guts rearranging.


    Her folds, already slick and trembling, seemed to cry out a wave of applause, enveloping him completely as she clenched around him in a grip that felt almost unbreakable.


    The veins in Ricky''s neck bulged as he felt her insides clasping around him, cuddling him in a


    veil of unbearable warmth, her body twitching and squeezing with each pulse.


    It almost felt like a crime to pull out, even just a little, but his hips faltered, withdrawing in a


    rough, labored motion, aching to return to Rachale''s tight embrace.


    *Smack*


    The bedframe crashed against the wall, punctuating each brutal thrust as Ricky started


    driving his hips into Rachael''s with relentless force.


    His grip on her waist was almost bruising, his fingers digging in as he pulled her against him, leaving no space between them as her head flew back, a loud, unabashed moan ripping from her throat, her voice filling the room as he stretched her with every inch, pushing deeper with


    each hard, demanding stroke.


    Her body was forced open to him, soft and slick, her inner walls clinging and pulsing around


    every inch he drove into her.


    Rachael felt every vein, every thick ridge, as he stretched her fully, filling her so completely


    that each thrust left her gasping, a raw moan tearing from her lips.


    "Ahhh, Ricky!" Rachael cried out for him, her voice hoarse with need, her head arching back as


    her insides tightened around him.


    The heat of her core radiated, an intense, velvety warmth that only seemed to draw him


    deeper.


    Her muscles clenched involuntarily, holding her own ankles while her pussy clenched down in


    an almost desperate grip, as if her body wanted to consume him, to keep him locked inside


    her.


    With each thrust, her walls spasmed, a wet, pulsing embrace that seemed to milk him, squeezing down each time he moved, each time he pushed harder into her. "F*cking hell~" Ricky groaned, his own breath coming in ragged gasps as he felt her warmth


    continuously swallow him whole.


    *SMACK*


    "§¡§¯§¯§¯§¯§¯§¯~"


    *SMACK*


    "§¡§¯§¯§¯§¯§¯§¯~"


    *SMACK*


    "§¡§¯§¯§¯§¯§¯§¯-"


    Ricky''s body continuously came down again and again onto Rachael''s twisted figure,


    slamming down his hips into her waist in a brutal fashion that forced a firm, resounding


    smack against her skin, sending a sharp, heated jolt through her body with a complimentary cry escaping her lips, raw and unfiltered,


    Ricky''s pace had grown out of control, almost crazed, with each thrust more demanding than


    the last, as if he was determined to push her beyond her limits, splintering the very bed beneath them, which creaked and groaned as though punished under their relentless


    collision.


    His grip on her thighs tightened, the marks of his hold already showing while pulling her into


    each powerful stroke, the slap of their bodies echoing in the room, mingling with her


    breathless gasps and his low, guttural grunts.


    Her entire body shuddered, her skin flushed and tingling, each rough thrust force f*cking her


    deeper into the mattress.


    The bed frame trembled, the headboard rattling against the wall with every impact, as if it


    could barely hold up under the weight of their flesh slapping against each other. "My god I can''t-AHHHHH~" Rachael''s tone came in a sharp, shallow gasp only to be stolen by a fervent moan.


    Her words, her coherence, essentially stolen by the relentless force of his hips crashing against hers. Rachael''s body was slick with her own fluids at this point, brewing a concoction of her sweat mixed with Ricky''s that coated her skin in an oily sheen, accentuating the curves of her figure.


    However, Rachael didn''t even notice the distinct sheen on her skin as her entire focus, her whole body, seemed to tremble in response, muscles tightening and clenching around him as if she were trying to hold onto the sensation, unwilling to let go of the deep, pulsing pleasure


    that consumed her.


    Her thighs shook violently, her toes curling white next to her angushing moaning face as he


    angled his hips, striking a spot inside her that sent an electric jolt through her, making her cry


    out, her voice raw and breathless.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHH~" Rachael cried out, her voice guttural as Ricky smashed into her special spot, driving her mind into a hazy, overwhelming state.


    Ricky seemed lost in his own sensations, driving deeper in pursuit of his own pleasure, while


    Rachael was left trembling beneath him, suffocating in lust under all of it. Every thrust seemingly drove deeper, her insides having no choice but to mold around him,


    stretching and yielding as he moved, each inch feeling like it was claiming her, filling her in ways that left her completely overwhelmed.


    Her nails moved from clawing her ankles, raking across the bed, tearing into the sheets as her


    fingers dug into the mattress, desperately trying to anchor herself to something, anything, to withstand this crippling motions as she breathed out a hot breath.


    The heat between them was unbearable, an intoxicating mix of pleasure and ache that built


    with each movement, her senses blurring as he took her further into that all-consuming


    rhythm.


    She could feel his pulse, each throb pressing into her, igniting every nerve as he filled her completely, the slick warmth of her inner walls responding to his every thrust, gripping and pulsing around him as if she couldn''t bear the thought of being empty.


    Ricky''s breaths were heavy, his grunts low and rough, each sound echoing through the room as he pushed her closer to the edge, his movements growing faster, more intense, his hands holding her tight as he drove deeper, harder, until every thought faded into the pure, raw


    sensation of him within her.


    Rachael could only lay there, unmoving, letting him have all of her, her body soft and pliant beneath his as he lost himself in the rhythmic pounding of their bodies.


    Ricky could feel the strain in his balls, the tightening before the explosion that would break


    through him.


    Then with one more seismic slam, Ricky pushed everything he could into the last thrust before his ball erupted out a magma surge of cum into teh deepest regions within Rachale. "AHHHHHHHHHHH~"Rachael''s moan tore through her throat, squirting out her sweet honey ambrosia, a flood of warmth that seemed to cool the burning heat still swirling within


    her.


    "Jesus god~" Ricky chuckled, delivering a small, deliberate thrust to push that last bit of release into Rachael, who was already filled to the brim.


    Her belly, already swollen with his thick, milky release, stretched further as another surge


    filled her, pushing her to the brink.


    Swirling within her womb in a maddening heat, Rachael was completely captivated by the


    sensation, laying there, unmoving, lost in the overwhelming warmth.


    Rachael''s body twitched uncontrollably, her mouth hanging open as strained breaths escaped, her vocal cords seemingly torn by the intensity as she was merely breathing.


    It was as if the eruption of warmth and pleasure, crashing down on her mind, drove her into a


    state of shock, leaving her motionless.


    Ricky''s thumb pressed gently against her tongue, guiding it as he smiled wider, watching her


    drift deeper into the haze of her pleasure.


    In a sense, if Ricky had been playing with her body before, now she was completely melted


    under his touch, utterly moldable to any movement and all interactions. His cock hardened with each passing possibility, forcing Rachael''s slumped posture straight


    as she was spin roasted onto her stomach.


    Her body sprawled lazily across the bed as Ricky''s hands gripped both of her soft, plump,


    round mounds of an ass, kneading them like dough before digging his nails into her flesh,


    pulling back slightly


    Rachael felt her walls ache with need, twitching wildly at the sudden disruption of the natural


    order that had his cock filling her to the very brim as it slowly pulled away.


    *CLAP*


    "0-0-0-Oh-"Rachael gasped, her moan deep and guttural, her face pressed into the bed as a


    trail of drool slipped onto the covers.


    Feeling her guts diverge once more as his movements ramped up, his cum still lingering in


    her womb, swirling with each force of his hips.


    Her nails dug into the sheets as her skin slid across the dampened fabric, pushing and pulling


    in rhythm with each sensation.


    The mixture of her and Ricky''s fluids slicked her already oiled skin, heightening every touch


    and


    movement.


    Suddenly, Ricky gripped her head, pressing her face down into the bed while lifting her hips with his other hand, suddenly slowly pulling himself out to heighten the anticipation. Coated in her juices, Ricky''s cock twitched with hunger, eager as he thrust back into her,


    feeling her body tense as her ass puckered in response.


    *CLAP*


    *CLAP*


    *CLAP*


    Rachael''s ass continuously smashed into Ricky''s waist, forcing out a rhythmic clap with every


    relentless thrust, his head tilting back as he released all his pent-up stress, pouring it all into


    her being.


    Her muffled cries pressed into the mattress, filled with a near-agonizing intensity as each thrust shattered her body, driving her to the edge of control, leaving her mind utterly undone.


    With each ruthless thrust, her pussy squealed out a flood of nectar that slickened the


    surroundings, saturating the air with a thick, intoxicating musk. Their mingled scent filled the room to its brim, a raw and unbridled blend of their fluids


    grinding into one another until the substance permeated into air. Ricky couldn''t tell if it was the buzz from the hell wine or the intoxicating warmth of her wet,


    tight, sloppy body wrapped around him, but he felt like he was losing his mind. He slicked back the loose strands of his hair before yanking her head up from the drool-


    soaked mattress, revealing Rachael''s glazed expression to the world. Rachael''s eyes were rolled back, tongue extended and dripping with saliva, f*cked into a lost


    state while possessed in a pleasure-induced haze as she was completely puddy in Ricky''s


    grasp, her body melting right into his hold.


    *CLAP*


    "HNNNNNNNNN~" Rachael moaned, struggling to even form a coherent moan after feeling another helping of Ricky''s cock.


    Ricky''s hands slid from their previous positions, making their way up to her swaying, perky breasts as he grabbed two handfuls, jerking them around to his whim.


    His tongue traced along her shoulder, savoring the salty warmth of her sweat before moving


    to her neck, where it seemed to settle comfortably.


    Rachael''s body flailed out any and all responses to Ricky''s movements, her breathless moans escaping as she writhed, her form arching and flopping around with each motion. In her haze, Rachael''s eyes locked onto Ricky''s neck, still carrying the lingering scent of Lilith


    as her gaze sharpened, turning yellow with intensity.


    Almost instinctively, her mouth parted, revealing her canines as she bit down on the spot


    where Lilith had marked him, driven by a surge of spite, drawing blood. Ricky didn''t flinch as he simply chalked it up to some bizarre supernatural instinct and didn''t


    mind, especially when it came from a stunning woman. Rachael surrendered herself to Ricky, leaving everything in his hands as he gripped her


    tightly, feeling her body react.


    Burying his face deeper into the curve of her neck, his movements grew more intense, each


    thrust fueled by a rising fervor.


    Then with one, long drawn out motion, Ricky pulled the entire length of his coated cock


    before slamming everything he had back into Rachael.


    It felt as though Ricky emptied every last drop within his balls, his cum exploding out into


    Rachael, pouring out a flood of his milky white batter as the overwhelmed room had no choice


    but to accept one final surge.


    "God damn Rachael you''re a f*cking animal-........Rachael?" Ricky laughed out, trailing a


    small line of kisses across the hickies he himself formed only to notice something.


    "Hey, Rachael." Ricky tapped her cheek, her body completely limp in his hold as her breath


    ragged spewed out.


    "Well, I guess it wouldn''t hurt to get some sleep-" Ricky, completely full of himself, felt the


    heavy weight of the Hell wine settle in, his mind clouded with fatigue as he plopped down


    with Rachael in toe.


    Still inside of Rachael, they both fell asleep still lingering within one another as they both


    settled into a rhythmic breathing while dozing into a deep slumber.


    *Ding*

 Chapter 110: Chapter 107: It’s Just Raining Power Up’s

    Chapter 110: Chapter 107: It¡¯s Just Raining Power Up¡¯s


    ?


    *DING*


    Ricky''s mind stirred with a jarring echo, his eyes fluttering open in the stillness of midnight.


    One eyelid lifted sluggishly, his gaze bleary and unfocused, as if caught between sleep and wakefulness.


    His head throbbed, the remnants of hell wine splitting through his skull as it wasn''t unbearable, nothing to die over, but the ache gnawed at his brain.


    Groaning softly, he sat up, his gaze dropping downward as the world wavered slightly around him.


    Flattened beneath him was Rachael, completely passed out, her hair fanned out of her face like a tangled halo.


    Ricky groaned, rubbing his face with one hand before casting a weary glance down at her motionless form.


    "Damn, I''m still hard?" Ricky thought groggily, his exhaustion mingling with a flicker of disbelief.


    His gaze drifted downward, catching sight of his cock still buried deep within Rachael''s folds and with a weary sigh, he began to slowly pull out, his movements careful and deliberate.


    A faint, tired moan escaped Rachael''s parted lips as his cock slipped free with a soft pop and moments later, his cum followed, spilling out and pooling beneath her in a slow, stream. "Man, I gotta take a piss." Ricky muttered to himself, rubbing his nose with a tired hand. But he lingered for a moment, his eyes drifting over the scene before him, a fleeting appreciation flickering through his haze and then, he turned and made his way toward the bathroom.


    Spotting the toilet, Ricky glanced down at his persistent erection and frowned, muttering a curse under his breath.


    Ricky adjusted into an awkward stance, angling himself as he began to release the floodgates. As the steady stream hit the bowl, he exhaled in relief, but his reprieve was short-lived.


    The dull thrum of notifications tugged at his attention, each chime pounding in rhythm with his lingering headache.


    Groaning, his gaze finally drifted up toward the glowing screen, its light adding to the ache behind his eyes.


    [Mission Received: Rachael Van Helsing]


    Difficulty: Hell


    Character Sheet: A


    Description: Rachael is a cold and heartless person who in more closed off than anyone you''ve met before, opening her legs could actually be easier then opening her heart as she is that hateful of the world


    Objective: Good luck.


    Reward: 300,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once: 500 Gacha or Rachael Van Helsing Powers


    Rewards:


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Have Rachael open her heart and bear her soul to you while in the process of baby making


    Rewards: Legendary Coupons x 3 (Complete)


    F*ck Rachael into a completely unconscious state


    Rewards: Epic Item Coupons x 10 (Complete)


    Finish simultaneously with Rachael on her first ever time


    Rewards: Legendary Weapon Coupon (Complete)


    Bonus Missions:


    Cum inside Rachael''s pussy three times in a row


    100,000 IP (Complete)


    ???????????????????


    Permanently alter Rachael''s pussy (Complete)


    Rewards: Legendary Weapon Rank Up Coupon


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????


    ???????????????????


    ''Receive Rachael''s powers and everything that comes with it.'' Ricky motioned his hands, receiving all the coupons and Rachael''s innate powers.


    Received:


    Legendary Weapon Rank Up Coupon


    400,000 IP


    Legendary Weapon Coupon


    Legendary Coupons x 3:


    Epic Item Coupons x 10


    Rachael Van Helsing Magical Powers:


    +25 Mana


    (INNATE) Holy Werewolf Form: This innate magic allows the user to transform into a Holy Werewolf, a magnificent blend of ethereal holiness and primal power. The transformation starts with a blinding white light enveloping the body, searing away impurities and filling the air with a sense of purity. The user''s muscles expand, their physique becoming more imposing and powerful.


    Warning: The user can only use magic to either strengthen, prolong, or dispel this form.


    Ricky''s heart pounded violently, a surge of magical energy coursing through him like an overwhelming adrenaline rush.


    It burned hot and intense, a sensation that threatened to consume him before gradually ebbing away, leaving his chest heaving.


    Ricky''s mind remained fixated on the ''Legendary Weapon Rank-Up Coupon'', a rare treasure capable of elevating any legendary weapon to the unparalleled mythic tier.


    Without hesitation, Ricky extended his hand, black flames swirling within his palm before summoning his newly-consumed Solar Flare Bow.


    Holding the bow steady, he pressed the coupon against its surface, anticipation crackling in


    the air like static.


    [Error: The Infernal Sun Flare Bow of Eternal Hunger is classified as a skill due to its


    consumption]


    [Error: The Infernal Sun Flare Bow of Eternal Hunger is classified as a skill due to its


    consumption]


    [Error: The Infernal Sun Flare Bow of Eternal Hunger is classified as a skill due to its


    consumption]


    Frustrated by the persistent system notification, Ricky repeated the process twice more to be certain before clicking his tongue in irritation, he dismissed the bow with a sharp gesture.


    "That''s f*cking gay." Ricky cursed inwardly, staring at the rank-up coupon with a deep frown before exhaling in frustration.


    "You know what, who cares? Just upgrade the Legendary Weapon Coupon to a Mythic Coupon." Ricky thought, deciding it was better to leave it up to chance.


    Moments later, his golden ticket shimmered, transforming into an ethereal glow that danced


    like the northern lights.


    ''Alright, now open all the tickets and consume Holy Werewolf Form.''


    DING


    Mythic Weapon: Chastiefol (Mastery: 0%)


    Forms and Abilities:


    First Form 0%: Spirit Spear - The primary form of Chastiefol is a massive, golden spear. It is


    incredibly durable and can extend and contract at will, making it perfect for both offense and defense. The spear can also release powerful energy blasts.


    Second Form 20%: Guardian - In this form, Chastiefol transforms into a large stuffed bear. The Guardian is extremely durable and can protect its allies by shielding them from attacks or by acting as a powerful melee combatant.


    Third Form 40%: Fossilization - Chastiefol can turn into a small, dagger-like weapon that petrifies anything it cuts. This form is useful for immobilizing enemies.


    Fourth Form 50%: Sunflower - This form allows Chastiefol to transform into a giant, sunflower-like structure that can shoot out devastating energy beams, capable of destroying


    multiple targets at once.


    Fifth Form 60%: Increase - Chastiefol can split into multiple smaller spears, each of which can attack independently. This form is ideal for overwhelming opponents with a barrage of attacks from various angles.


    Sixth Form 70%: Chastiefol can turn into powerful, animated roots that burst from the ground to capture and restrain enemies. These roots can also be used to immobilize large groups or create barriers to control the battlefield.


    Seventh Form: Luminosity 80%: This form transforms Chastiefol into a glowing orb that emits a bright light. It can be used to blind enemies or illuminate dark areas. Eighth Form: Pollen Garden 90%: Chastiefol transforms into a barrier of flowers that can heal King and his allies by emitting restorative pollen. It provides both protection and recovery. True Spirit Spear Chastiefol 100%: The ultimate form of Chastiefol, combining all its previous forms and unleashing its full power. In this form, it can harness immense magical energy, greatly enhancing King''s combat abilities.


    (Legendary Item) Legendary Rank Up Coupon: Allows for any item to be ranked up into a


    Mythic Level.


    (Legendary Item) Broken Stand Arrow: If the person has a strong enough mental fighting


    spirit, they will gain a stand but it will be watered down significantly, if they don''t meet the


    criteria to become a stand user, they will die. (Legendary Skill) Toxic Immunity: Grants the user complete immunity to all forms of toxins, poisons, and harmful substances at a legendary level. This skill goes beyond simple resistance, rendering the user entirely unaffected by any chemical, biological, or magical toxins classified as legendary. The only exceptions to this immunity are poisons or toxins of god-tier power, which are the sole substances capable of affecting the user.


    (Epic Item) Senzu Beans x 10: Senzu Beans are magical beans with extraordinary healing properties. They are small, round beans that can heal injuries, cure illnesses, and restore the consumer''s energy completely. One bean is typically enough to heal a person from near-death injuries and restore them to full health.


    However, Ricky couldn''t focus or for that matter, he wasn''t even aware of what he received as


    his body trembled uncontrollably as he slowly sank to the floor, every muscle spasming


    violently. [Warning: Vampiric Terror is interrupting the consumption of Holy Werewolf Form.] [Warning: Both forms are devouring one another for complete dominance-] [WARNING: FORMS ARE FORCEFULLY MERGING IN THE PURSUIT OF CONSUMPTION-]


    [WARNING-]


    Cough


    Ricky''s body spasmed violently as the first wave of transformation hit, a guttural cough ripping from his throat as a viscous, black blood surged up from his lungs.


    His veins, once full of life, began to twist and contort, their once-healthy color draining into


    an abyssal void.


    The darkened blood surged through them, spreading to his face, where his eyes began to


    change.


    They no longer held the faint trace of humanity, but instead, the whites of his eyes turned a sickening, opaque black.


    His pupils slithered into the inky abyss, the veins under his skin pulsing with a sickly,


    otherworldly light as if the very life force in his body was being drawn into the void.


    Ricky''s body contorted with unnatural force as his bones began to crack and break, snapping under pressure.


    The sound was sickening, like the crumbling of dry wood, yet far more jagged and brutal.


    His ribcage shattered, pieces of bone ripping through his skin, only for the flesh to quickly stretch and reform, compensating for the rapid and violent changes.


    His spine arched, twisting with a painful crack as it lengthened and thickened, forcing his


    entire frame to shift into something far larger, more monstrous.


    His skin, once soft and human, stretched painfully across his newly reforming body. With every inch of his body reshaping, patches of dark, coarse fur began to grow, sprouting from beneath the ripped flesh, its blackness mingling with the spreading tendrils of void that


    wormed under his skin.


    His chest heaved as the transformation reached his face, the skin tearing around his mouth as


    his teeth began to elongate.


    His teeth morphed first, then his canines, each one growing sharper, more pointed, until they


    were the elongated fangs of a vampire, capable of rendering through flesh and bone with


    ease.


    His claws followed, grotesque, jagged talons pushing through his fingers as they thickened and darkened with power.


    They gleamed with a black sheen, each one long and capable of tearing through anything in


    their path.


    The transformation didn''t stop there as his muscles swelled, his body warping into a grotesque hybrid of wolf and vampire.


    Ricky''s posture hunched over as fur sprouted along his back and arms, thick and wiry, growing into patches of fur that seemed to shimmer unnaturally under the faintest light.


    Huff


    Huff Huff


    Ricky''s form towered over his previous one, his head touching hte high ceiling as his void


    black eyes gazed down at the abomnation staring him back in the mirror.


    It was only then did the system display the gorutque form that was now added to his arsenal.


    Dreadfiend Form: The user undergoes a terrifying and unnatural transformation, the forced consumption of Vampiric Terror had forcibly combined with the user''s Holy Werewolf to


    realize this nightmarish entity.


    Powers and Abilities:


    1. Dreadfiend Physique: The user''s body undergoes a horrific transformation each time they


    shift into this form, their muscles expanding and their form becoming a towering, monstrous version of both a vampire and a werewolf. With this form; their speed, strength, and agility are greatly enhanced, making them a nearly unstoppable force of nature. The user''s senses are heightened to an inhuman degree. They can track prey by scent, hear heartbeats from miles away, and detect the faintest vibrations of life.


    2. Blood-Drain Claws & Fangs: The user''s claws and fangs are not only weapons but also tools for survival. Each slash or bite drains life energy from their victim, healing the user and replenishing their strength. This blood-draining process sustains the transformation, allowing it to last longer as the user feeds. Each victim drained gives them greater power and prolongs their monstrous form, but the hunger grows with every passing moment.


    3. Corrupted Holy Radiance: This corrupted radiance amplifies the user''s physical strength for


    a short period of time, granting them terrifying force in every strike. The radiance forms a protective aura, bolstering their resilience against dark magic and necromantic forces, yet this holy energy is far from cleansing. Instead, it corrupts all it touches, turning once-pure light into an unsettling, oppressive force that saps the vitality of nearby foes.


    4. Predator''s Reflexes & Primal Instincts: The user moves with impossible speed, reacting to incoming threats in an instant. Their reflexes are instinctual, honed by both the vampiric thirst for blood and the feral nature of a werewolf. They can dodge, counter, and outmaneuver most attacks with ease, striking first with an unthinking, predatory hunger that knows no


    mercy.


    5. Sacrificial Aura of Hunger: The user''s very presence brings fear and an insatiable hunger. Anyone in close proximity to the abomination feels an overwhelming sense of dread, their bodies instinctively shying away from the user''s blood-draining aura. This aura also slowly saps the strength of those around them regardless of ally or enemy, feeding the abomination''s powers and making them even more lethal. This aura can be controlled to either heal the user or sap the strength from others, but overuse can leave the user in a


    weakened state.


    Weaknesses:


    1. Magic Suppression: While in this Dreadfiend Form, the abomination cannot use magic. All


    magical powers are suppressed, forcing the user to rely entirely on physical strength and vampiric instincts. No spells, no incantations, just raw, brutal power.


    The form before him was far from what could be considered beautiful as Ricky simply stared at his transformed claws, before his body slowly began to revert back to its original shape.


    He stood still, caught in a trance, trying to comprehend the monstrosity he had transformed


    into.


    It wasn''t just unsettling, it was something a schizophrenic patient might scrawl in their own blood after a nightmarish vision.


    But Ricky''s eyes didn''t flicker with fear but they sharpened, cold determination settling in as


    he clenched his fist.


    There was a clear price to pay for power, and if it meant becoming this abomination, he didn''t


    mind as more power was worth any cost.


    ''Let''s just put that internal crisis to the side, cause I wanna see my stuff.'' Ricky muttered,


    pushing aside any lingering thoughts about his transformed state.


    Ricky refocused, turning his attention to everything he had received, his eyebrow arching in


    surprise as he examined the results.


    Ricky''s eyes locked onto his new weapon, his interest piqued and after reading that he could control it with his mind, he was certain it would become an invaluable tool in his arsenal. ''That''s badass.'' Ricky thought before raising another eyebrow, seeing that he needed to connect with the weapon in order to use all of its ability rather than having it handed to him. Ricky''s eyes scanned the others, especially the senzu beans, until his eyes always returned to the Broken Stand arrow.


    He stared at the broken legendary item in his hands, then glanced over his other possessions.


    None of them really needed upgrades, except for his storage, though, even at its current level,


    it functioned like a warehouse, regardless of whether it was mythic or not.


    The thought of having a complete set, however, piqued his curiosity enough to really just


    throw caution to the wind.


    ''Use the coupon to level up the stand arrow.''


    DING


    (Mythic Item) Stand Arrow: If the person has a strong enough mental fighting spirit, they will


    gain a complete stand customized to them, if they don''t meet the criteria to become a stand user, they will die. He examined the golden figure closely, its luminescent shine catching the light as he inspected every detail but as he scrutinized the arrow further, his expression shifted into a


    frown.


    ''What do I do with it? Ricky thought, holding the item in his hand, waiting for something to happen but when nothing did, an idea suddenly struck him.


    ''Wait, do I like, impale myself with it?'' Ricky thought, tilting his head to the side before


    opting for the safer, non-suicidal action.


    With a quick motion, he nicked his finger, curious to see if that would trigger a reaction.


    "Ha~" Ricky exhaled sharply, the breath so cold it caused the mirror in front of him to fog as


    he fell to his knees as the arrow''s power seeped into his body. ''Why? Why does it always hurt like a motherf-ARGH!'' Ricky thought, hsi internal words burning through his mind, only for him to cut himself off with a pained, cynical laugh as his head jerked upward suddenly, his focus snapping back into place.


    The veins around him pulsed, his body wracked with a pain unlike anything he had ever felt


    before as it was as though every inch of him was being torn apart.


    "It''s like a whole new painful experience, completely different from the others~" Ricky


    muttered to himself, feeling as though he was trying to pitch a product that was only


    marginally better than the competition.


    It was a weak attempt to stifle his groans with muffled laughter, but it wasn''t working as well


    as he''d hoped, especially since his face was flushed bright red from the effort.


    But just as he was about to collapse, Ricky planted a hand firmly in front of him, a silent


    declaration that he wasn''t going to succumb to a mere arrow.


    ''I killed Dracula, I literally refuse to have ''killed by a random arrow'' on my goddamn headstone!'' Ricky yelled, hitting his fist into the floor as cracks spiraled out from the impact


    zone.


    DING


    (Mythic Stand Skill) Shadow Broker: Appearance: Shadow Broker takes the form of a sleek, dark figure with an almost business-


    like attire. Black suit and tie with a long coat that seems to merge into shadows. Its features are sharp and angular, giving it a menacing, yet sophisticated appearance. Its eyes glow with a piercing red light, and it carries an aura of authority and control. The user is also the only


    one who can see it''s stand unless another being with a stand is born into your world. Abilities:


    1. Negotiation Manipulation - Shadow Broker can influence and manipulate the outcomes of negotiations or deals. By simply being present, it can alter the perceptions and decisions of those involved, subtly guiding them towards outcomes favorable towards the user. 2. Shadow Manipulation - The Stand can control and merge with shadows, allowing it to move undetected and strike from unexpected angles. It can also create shadow constructs for both offense and defense, such as weapons or barriers.


    3. Information Extraction - Shadow Broker can extract secrets or hidden information from


    individuals by touching them or being in close proximity.


    4. Subtle Influence - The Stand can subtly influence people''s emotions and actions, creating a


    sense of unease or suspicion in targets, making them more likely to act in ways that benefit


    the user''s


    plans.


    5. Illusionary Distortion - It can create realistic illusions or distortions out of shadows within


    the environment, making enemies see or believe things that aren''t true. 6. Temporal Manipulation - At a higher level, Shadow Broker can momentarily distort


    probability within a localized area, allowing Ricky to manipulate brief moments of luck or


    avoid immediate danger.


    Weaknesses:


    Light Sensitivity: Excessive light can weaken Shadow Broker''s shadow manipulation abilities,


    making it less effective in well-lit environments.


    Emotional Disruption: Strong, conflicting emotions from Ricky can interfere with the Stand''s influence and manipulation abilities, making it harder for it to maintain control over targets. ''What the f*ck-JESUS!'' Ricky rubbed his head before looking to the side, seeing a figure


    hovering behind him without a face.


    The figure''s attire was unmistakably that of a mobster; sharp suit, briefcase in hand, and a hat perched atop its head.


    Yet its face was shrouded in darkness, with only two gleaming red eyes piercing through the


    void.


    Ricky watched as the figure''s body seemed to radiate a translucent, black void, an unsettling


    presence that felt like it was peering into the depths of his soul. Despite the overwhelming sensation, Ricky couldn''t help but reach out, his hand inching


    toward the mysterious figure.


    ''Raise your right arm.'' Ricky thought, his command clear as the figure obeyed, lifting its right


    arm, which gripped a briefcase adorned with a gun emblem.


    ''This is so freaky.'' Ricky muttered, standing up as he stared at his new skill, which had seemingly manifested into something real as he was a bit taken aback by the suddenness of it


    all.


    Ricky read through the skill''s details, surprised by what it was capable of and tentatively, he poked at it once more, and to his surprise, he could actually touch it now. ''This is really freaky.'' Ricky thought, looking around for a bit before raising an eyebrow.


    ''Get into my shadow.'' Ricky commanded, and the figure obeyed, fading seamlessly into the


    darkness at his feet.


    Ricky stared, surprised by how effortlessly it vanished into the shadow, even though he could


    only see it, he felt weird to have it just hovering next to him at all times. ''Now come back out.''


    ''Now go back in.''


    ''Oh, this is so cool.'' Ricky thought, laughing to himself while commanding the stand to


    literally appear and disappear.


    ''Alright, alright, focus up.'' Ricky told himself, looking back over to the system panel and


    scrollign through it.


    "Now, for the shop," Ricky muttered, rubbing his hands together in anticipation. ''Come on baby, give me something good.'' Ricky urged the system as he refreshed the shop


    window, watching as the items appeared before him, ready for the taking.


    [SHOP]


    IP: 935,000


    Refreshable Items:


    Wild Scent: 25,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Makes the user''s scent spark wild thoughts within women that they usually tuck


    away in their subconscious.


    Silken Voice: 50,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: The user''s voice has a mesmerizing quality, making their words feel deeply


    intimate and persuasive.


    Effect: This effect has double the effect of partners of the user who already feel a connection


    with them which can heighten arousal, create a deep emotional connection, or soothe their


    partner.


    Memory Imprint: 500,000 Impregnation Points Description: The user can leave a lasting, vivid memory of an intimate encounter, allowing


    their partner to recall it with intense clarity.


    Effect: This makes the experience unforgettable, allowing the memory to bring pleasure long


    after the moment has passed.


    {Refresh Available in 147:56:12}


    Daily Item:


    Love Tonic: 10,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: Get''s anyone who drinks it into the food to get nasty.


    Weekly Item:


    Aura of Comfort: 50,000 Impregnation Points


    Description: The character can emit an aura that makes others feel safe, relaxed, and open to


    exploration.


    Effect: This power is useful for helping their partner feel comfortable and secure, allowing


    them to fully enjoy the experience.


    Monthly Item:


    Charming Eyes: 300,000 Impregnation Points Description: The character''s gaze can mesmerize or enchant their partner, creating a deep,


    almost hypnotic connection.


    Effect: This power can draw a partner in, making them more receptive to advances or simply


    intensifying the connection through eye contact. Staring at the items before him, Ricky dropped to his knees, the bathroom light casting a


    radiant glow on the system and its shop as he was left speechless. For the first time in three years, the shop, the one that had constantly given him trash with


    only rare exceptions, was offering him gold.


    It felt as though skills were raining down from the skies, an overwhelming bounty that he


    could hardly believe was real.


    "Hallelujah." Ricky couldn''t believe it but did anyways as in a matter of seconds, he bought everything the shop had to offer, his fingers flying across the screen. The only item left was the love tonic, still sitting untouched at the shop, all lonely and feeling


    left


    out.


    DING


    Received:


    Wild Scent: Makes the user''s scent spark wild thoughts within women that they usually tuck


    away in their subconscious.


    Silken Voice: The user''s voice has a mesmerizing quality, making their words feel deeply


    intimate and persuasive.


    Effect: This effect has double the effect of partners of the user who already feel a connection


    with them which can heighten arousal, create a deep emotional connection, or soothe their


    partner.


    Memory Imprint: The user can leave a lasting, vivid memory of an intimate encounter,


    allowing their partner to recall it with intense clarity.


    Effect: This makes the experience unforgettable, allowing the memory to bring pleasure long


    after the moment has passed.


    Aura of Comfort: The character can emit an aura that makes others feel safe, relaxed, and


    open to exploration.


    Effect: This power is useful for helping their partner feel comfortable and secure, allowing


    them to fully enjoy the experience.


    Charming Eyes: The character''s gaze can mesmerize or enchant their partner, creating a deep,


    almost hypnotic connection.


    Effect: This power can draw a partner in, making them more receptive to advances or simply


    intensifying the connection through eye contact. ''Jesus Christ, how could anyone not call me a Casanova after this? I mean, come on.'' Ricky glanced at himself in the mirror, almost pleading with his reflection as he made a cross-like


    gesture, as if blessing all the future mothers out there.


    ''Call me fertilizer, ''cause I make that grass grow-no, that''s not good.'' Ricky muttered to


    himself, shaking his head as he dismissed the thought.


    ''Call the fertility doctor-wait stop. The fertility doctor, really Ricky?'' Ricky thought looking


    at his reflection as if it was to blame for these poor one-liners. ''Man, I really need to get my game together.'' Ricky shook his head, making a mental note to


    really rehabilitate his pick-up and one-liners for the future. "Now, let''s get back." Ricky walked out of the bathroom and slid back under the covers,


    spooning up against Rachael as she instinctively smiled, settling into the warmth. Stroking Rachael''s hair gently, Ricky gradually drifted off to sleep, his sore muscles slowly


    healing.


    As he rested, Shadow Broker remained in the shadows, silently watching over him, guarding


    its user with unwavering vigilance.


    Next morning,


    Ricky''s eyes slowly flickered open, his hand instinctively rubbing them as he sat up as he


    rubbed his nose, letting out a heavy sigh as he took in his surroundings.


    SIGH


    "And of course you''re gone." Ricky muttered, shaking his head as he scratched his hair, stray


    strands falling before he smoothed them back into place. Instead of waking up to the warmth of a naked woman cuddled at his side, he was met with an


    empty bed and a single letter resting on the nightstand.


    Ricky rolled over to grab the letter, then shifted back to his previous position and with a sigh,


    he opened it, noticing his name, ''Ricky''


    elegantly inscribed on the front.


    Dear Ricky,


    I''m sorry but I''m a leaf; the season of my life has changed. Although I''ll cherish everything


    you, not only did for me, but for my family. I''m tired. Your life is one that will be filled with suspenseful and action-filled ups and downs, I can tell. The way you attract situations is something I never expected, and while I''ve grown to admire your strength and resilience, I find myself longing for a simpler path like what my grandfather always desired. You''ve always had a way of drawing chaos and challenge into your orbit, and it''s been incredible to witness everything you''ve gone through to get to this very point in your life. Yet, as much as I admire your journey, our journey, I must admit that it''s not a path I can continue


    to walk with you. My heart tells me that I need to find my own way, away from the whirlwind


    of your world.


    Please understand that this isn''t about anything you did or didn''t do. This is all my fault. It''s


    about me needing to take a step back and find peace in a quieter place before truly


    understanding what it is I want out of my life. I hope you can respect my decision and know


    that my feelings for you and my gratitude will always remain.


    I wish you the very best in everything that lay ahead. May you find the strength to navigate


    your path with the same bravery you''ve always shown.


    Take care,


    Rachael Van Helsing


    Closing the letter, Ricky fell back onto the bed, staring at the ceiling for what felt like an


    eternity, torn between emotions.


    Rachael had always been distant, cold even, and just as she finally began to let her guard


    down, she was gone.


    Ricky hadn''t even had the chance to truly understand her, to get close, because she had always


    kept him at arm''s length.


    And the moment she started to pull him in, she vanished without a trace.


    Sigh


    "Women." Ricky sighed again, shrugging it off since Rachael seemed responsible enough as


    he rolled out of bed, quickly tossing on his clothes.


    To Ricky, trying to understand a woman''s mind was like getting a Rubik''s cube with no colors,


    just gray, and being told to solve it, even though you''re sure it''s already fixed but go along


    with it


    anyway. Then, when you think you''ve cracked it, you spend so much time twisting and turning it that everyone around you thinks it''s solved, only for them to find something wrong with it at the


    last minute.


    ''It''s not


    like this is goodbye, I''ll find her.'' Ricky thought, convinced that with his luck, he''d


    either run into Rachael again or show up at the random hospital when the kid was born,


    demanding to see him.


    Ricky was more than willing to go with the flow on this one and wasn''t in any rush as he decided to respect her space for the time being, figuring things would work out eventually. Author''s Note: I know its kinda of a short chapter considering the input of the story and dialouge but I just kinda want some feedback related to the stand and the power ups. Like wondering if it''s too much cause I kinda wanted to make my own stand and really give it twist that suits Ricky''s whole thing since stands really compliment their users. Also what your


    guy''s


    opinion''s on anime type weapons, like is it too far, what do you I wanna know? Also I


    know it can be random sometime but I am sort of forming a set path and would like your


    feedback onto how to make it less random.

 Chapter 111 - 108: Honorary Cardinal

    Chapter 111: Chapter 108: Honorary Cardinal


    "Man, I forgot about my clothes. They''re totally ruined." Ricky scratched his head, gazing around at the rags that were his clothes.


    "I guess I''m just gonna rock with just a single pair of shorts." Ricky muttered, picking up his shorts that had survived the aftermath of Rachael.


    Walking out of the room while rubbing his bare stomach, Ricky realized that he could really go for some bacon and eggs then wondered if this castle even had a kitchen.


    ''No, they have to have a kitchen, right?'' Ricky thought, trying to convince himself there had to be some kind of weird kitchen hidden around the castle as he started walking around, checking every corner.


    However, it didn''t take long for Ricky to realize he was completely and utterly lost while searching for the kitchen.


    "Alright, so I''ve found like eighteen bathrooms but zero kitchens, got it." Ricky muttered to himself, shrugging as if it made any sense as he couldn''t help but laugh at how absurd his own words sounded.


    "And now I''m on my third staircase, why do you even need more than one staircase?" Ricky seemingly complained, spreading out his arms while talking to himself in a passive aggressive way since he was literally starved.


    "Is that-"


    "Chores, just the man I wanted to see," Ricky called out, spotting him as he walked down the winding gothic staircase.


    Chores was anxiously pacing back and forth at the side, clearly lost in thought and not even paying attention to his words.


    Ricky raised an eyebrow, continuing down the stairs, but Chores didn''t acknowledge him as he kept pacing, lost in his own world.


    Finally, Ricky reached him, standing right in front of the nervous man before speaking up.


    "Boo!" Ricky suddenly appeared next to Chores, who was lost in his own thoughts.


    The sudden presence made Chores jump, his entire body flinching as he stumbled backward, eyes wide with shock.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky laughed in a maniacal tone, watching Chores grab his chest and take another two steps back before letting out a sigh.


    "Slick, you scared me." Chores heaved out, taking a second to collect his thoughts while Ricky laughed at the side.


    "What''s up man, why are you pacing around as if waiting for your STD results after going no condom in a stripper?" Ricky slung his shoulder around Chores, patting his chest as the gentle giant gave him a weird look.


    "A stripper-what, no I just-"


    Sigh


    "Slick, sorry I''ve been so busy but with moving my workshop and all, then with going back to New York it''s just a lot." Chores sighed out, side eyeing Ricky while wanting to say something but closing his mouth again.


    "Funny enough, that''s actually what I wanted to talk to you about." Ricky said, his tone casual but carrying an underlying weight as Chores immediately felt his stomach churn, a sense of unease settling in.


    The thing that scared Chores the most was being thrown away; discarded like an old, useless tool.


    It was why he had secluded himself for so long, why he''d worked tirelessly to prove his worth.


    He had to make himself indispensable, always hovering in the background, anticipating every need, trying to anticipate what was expected of him before anyone could voice it.


    He''d spent so much time making sure he was useful that he''d convinced himself that if he wasn''t, there would be nothing left for him.


    No place.


    No purpose.


    But now, standing there in front of Ricky, Chores felt all that work, all that effort, unraveling with each word that came out of Ricky''s mouth.


    It was a suffocating weight in his chest, like the ground was slowly crumbling beneath him.


    For a brief moment, he questioned whether everything he had done to earn his place meant anything at all.


    What if it was never enough?


    What if Ricky had already decided he was expendable, just like everyone else who he had ever tossed aside?


    Chores stomach twisted, and he forced himself to swallow the lump in his throat, but it didn''t help.


    His hands were clammy, and his mind raced, desperately searching for a way to turn the conversation around before it turned into something he couldn''t undo.


    "I want to form a manufacturing company that makes household wares and commodities, but more than that, I want you to come work for me." Ricky said, his tone firm and straightforward with a wide smile, showing that he wasn''t going to toss aside him aside and instead pull him even closer to his inner circle.


    But to Chores, the words didn''t land the way they were intended and instead, they felt like a distant echo, warped by the noise in his mind as his brain struggled to make sense of it, as if his ears had betrayed him.


    "Slick, I swear I won''t hold you back so please-what?" Chores'' eyes squinted in confusion, his expression unreadable as he tried to make sense of Ricky''s words.


    "I want you to come work for a company I''m going to start. What were you thinking?" Ricky repeated again, his words hanging in the air, cutting through any doubts or lingering fears in Chores mind.


    Chores, still caught off guard, shook his head and ran a hand through his hair, the movement slow and unsure.


    "N-Nothing, sorry."


    "It''s alright, man." Ricky said, his tone softening with a low humble chuckle.


    "I know it''s a big adjustment, especially since you''ve been my muscle until now. But after seeing how well you handled things with the alchemists, I''d really like you to come work with me at my future company." Ricky gestured, his eyes scanning Chores with a mixture of appreciation and anticipation, watching as the gentle giant stood speechless, at a loss for words.


    "I know how much time you''ve put into creating, and I admire the lengths you''ve gone to." Ricky said, his shoulders lifting in a casual shrug.


    "I just want to see how far you can take this talent, how far we can take this." Ricky let the words hang in the air, aware of the potential to build something that could dominate the market with all the items in his inventory.


    Chores couldn''t help but offer a small smile in response, the possibility of something bigger starting to sink in.


    "I-I''m thankful, truly." Chores stammered, bowing his head as Ricky chuckled softly, reaching out to tap him on the shoulder.


    "Actually, now that you''re here, I''ve got some blueprints. I''d like you to look over and see how feasible they are for construction. Wait, hold on a second." Ricky paused, then moved toward his storage.


    The mist around him swirled as he entered, reappearing moments later with a single blueprint in hand.


    Ricky handed it to Chores, who took it delicately, his eyes widening as he examined the intricate details.


    "This is a-"


    "Reusable steel-insulated mugs." Ricky said with a conspiratorial grin, almost proud of the fact.


    "Don''t tell anyone, but this is the kind of product we''re going to sell once I patent it, when we get back to the States." Ricky tapped the blueprint, a knowing smirk crossing his face as he was already picturing how he''d get filthy rich off this blueprint scanner and the items in his inventory.


    Ricky had spent countless hours pondering the venture he would pursue, his mind running through endless possibilities.


    After much deliberation, he finally settled on producing high end commodities as he had access to so many advanced designs, products far beyond what this era''s technology could comprehend, and he knew just how valuable they would be.


    But before moving forward, Ricky wanted to patent each one, ensuring they were protected.


    More than that, though, he needed to be certain he could fully trust Chores with the idea, especially with something so potentially lucrative.


    "I''ll guard it with my life and although my workshop is currently being condensed by the warlocks, I can get back to you in two-no, one week." Chores hurriedly said, and Ricky nodded, holding up a thumbs up.


    "Alright, I''m expecting good things, Chores. Don''t let me down." Ricky said as he walked away, forming a gate with a wave of his hand before stepping through it.


    "I swear Slick, I won''t."


    Meanwhile In the Vatican,


    Ricky stepped through the portal, clad in his Black Knight attire, ready to claim his long-awaited honorary title.


    "R-Black Knight!" Father Sebastian, who had been calmly combing his hair, leapt to his feet in shock as Ricky quite literally trespassed into his room.


    "Oh, come on, Father, you can call me Slick or Ricky." Ricky said with a light hearted chuckle, walking up to the priest as Father Sebastian chuckled warmly as they shook hands.


    "On behalf of the church, I''d like to thank you, first and foremost, not only for defeating that horrid Dracula but also for freeing Abraham." Father Sebastian said, his smile tinged with sadness. Ricky''s own smile faltered slightly in response.


    "I know he wasn''t the most noble person but-"


    Sniff


    Father Sebastian''s expression faltered, his hand trembling as it moved to his side since despite his cheerful words, the pain of losing Abraham, his closest friend, was undeniable.


    "I know father, I honestly don''t hold anything against Abraham." Ricky looked with an unreadable expression, watching him slowly regain himself.


    "I''m just going to miss stealing his flasks," Ricky joked, earning a small chuckle from Father Sebastian despite the heaviness in the air.


    "You know, I met Abraham during my missionary trip to Romania," Father Sebastian said, letting out a light sigh before turning back to Ricky.


    "Before, the Van Helsings were a very closed-off family, rarely interacting with the church. But after the massacre, Abraham was left with only one surviving family member." Father Sebastian said with a knowing smile, revealing that he had been aware all along.


    "Rachael, I know." Ricky rubbed his forehead, the headache returning as the holy man chuckled.


    "Yes, well, Abraham found my missionary group after traveling four days through a storm, all while carrying the barely breathing Rachael," Father Sebastian said, his smile tinged with deeper sorrow. Ricky gazed at him in silence for a moment before letting out a heavy sigh.


    "Then you healed him and you became best friends-" Ricky sped up the conversation but Father Sebastion laughed heartily.


    "No, actually, Abraham tried to rob our caravan and ended up stealing one of the decorative carriages, with me still in it." Father Sebastian admitted, a faint chuckle escaping as the memory surfaced.


    "It was only after he punched me in the face that he allowed me to try and heal the young child, which I managed to do before a better remedy finally appeared." Father Sebastion counted with a wry smile.


    "But even then, to save Rachael''s magic and life, I had to fracture his son''s implanted core even further to not only save Rachael''s core but his life." Father Sebastian said quietly, his voice heavy with the memory, as Ricky frowned in understanding.


    "About that, how did Abraham even survive after having his heart ripped out? I mean, how is that even possible?" Ricky asked curiously, recalling the large scar he had seen on Abraham''s chest long ago.


    "It shouldn''t have been possible," Father Sebastian replied quietly, remembering that stormy day as Abraham endured so much pain that day yet still crawled away alive.


    "He should''ve died, but he didn''t or couldn''t for that matter. Abraham knew he couldn''t leave that poor child alone, and I revered him for the courage to press on despite everything." Father Sebastion let out a sad chuckle, knowing that Abraham would no longer show up out of blue, and all the shenanigans he would be dragged into.


    "I suppose that is why he followed me back to the church after realizing he could no longer possess magic." Father Sebastion lamented, recalling how Abraham had originally decided to learn holy magic in the first place.


    "He always said he came to the Vatican to learn and control holy magic, but I think he was really searching for answers, trying to understand why God had to be so cruel." Father Sebastion''s voice softened, reflecting the weight of Abraham''s unspoken struggle.


    "The Pope and I at the time agreed to keep Rachael''s existence a secret, and then it all played out until now." Father Sebastian said, turning back to Ricky, who was still reeling from how much he hadn''t known about Abraham.


    "I see."


    "Well, if you do, don''t feel so down since he might have said all those things and pretended not to care, but Abraham truly saw himself in you." Father Sebastion said, offering a comforting smile.


    "I think that''s why he was always so hard on you," Father Sebastion continued, his voice softening.


    "He didn''t want you to become him, but a better version." Father Sebastion words hung in the air, leaving Ricky silent as he sat at the table, processing the weight of them.


    "Um, Father, when am I going to be awarded my honorary priesthood?" Ricky asked, changing the subject. Father Sebastion smiled warmly at the question.


    "I will call forth a meeting and uphold not only the promise for the Vatican to publicly acknowledge mutants as God''s children, but then award you the title." Father Sebastion said, gesturing toward Ricky, who nodded in response.


    "The matter might take some time to arrange, so until then, you will be provided your own room to dwell in until the crowning ceremony," Father Sebastian instructed as Ricky, slightly annoyed by the delay, nodded but couldn''t hide his impatience with how long the proceedings would take.


    However, Ricky readily agreed and was shown to the room where Abraham had helped stabilize his core all those years ago.


    Ricky didn''t take Alexander or Garfield for company, as they still wanted to see the sights of Transylvania with Asterion, leaving him alone with his thoughts even with the Ebony Blade sheathed at his side.


    Though the sword had once whispered constant temptations of deceit, after they had settled their differences, Ricky had learned that the Ebony Blade actually relished the serenity of silence.


    To begin a conversation, it was Ricky who had to make the effort, proving that even the darkest of weapons could find peace in stillness.


    ''Screw it,'' Ricky muttered, bored out of his mind as he opened his storage and returned with a bottle of Hell Wine and Dracula''s Diary, ready to pass the time in his own way.


    "Let''s see his deepest secrets and make fun of him, shall we?"


    Over the course of two days, Ricky read through Dracula''s ventures and deepest inner thoughts, which led to multiple painful revelations.


    The first major one came when Abraham had accidentally revealed Dracula''s existence to the world.


    But instead of quelling the chaos that followed, Dracula had seized the opportunity, exploiting it for his own gain.


    Diary Entry: August 9, 1898


    Tonight has brought a revelation that transcends mere fortune. In a turn of events that I can only attribute to the whims of fate rather than any deliberate strategy, Abraham Van Helsing has inadvertently strengthened my position within the vampire community in a manner I could not have orchestrated myself.


    The clumsy disclosure of my existence through that work of fiction, in a way that I can only assume was meant to strike terror into the hearts of humans and unite them against a perceived threat, has instead had an unforeseen consequence. Van Helsing''s revelation was not the carefully crafted stratagem I had anticipated. Rather, it was a haphazard attempt to expose and contain me, one that has only served to reinforce my standing among vampires.


    The notoriety I have gained from this work being published has drawn me deeper into the gaze of the Vampire community. The very public display of our enmity with Van Helsing has, rather than diminishing me, elevated my status, transforming me into a symbol of resilience and defiance. Rather than isolating me from the vampire community and causing opposition towards me, Van Helsing''s actions have galvanized their support. My name, once whispered in hushed tones within the community as a passing Vampiric leader, is now a rallying cry against the oppressive regime of humanity. I have unknowingly become a figurehead for those who see in me not merely a threat, but a potent symbol of resistance against the encroaching human world.


    The revelation of our feud has created a spectacle that vampires now find both compelling and advantageous. They have seen the human attempts to subdue me and recognized, perhaps with a tinge of reverence, the strength it must take to withstand such relentless pursuit. Instead of being diminished, my reputation has been elevated. I am now viewed not just as a predator but as a paragon of vampire resilience and power.


    This unforeseen turn of events has resulted in a groundswell of support. Vampires are flocking to my cause and my sect, aligning themselves with me not out of necessity but out of a newfound sense of shared identity and purpose. The chaos Van Helsing intended to unleash has, by some quirk of fate, become the very instrument through which I consolidate more power.


    I must acknowledge the irony of it all. Van Helsing''s misguided attempt to reveal my existence has only served to fortify my position. It is a testament to the unpredictable nature of power and influence. I find myself now at the helm of a strengthened alliance, with the very conflict he sought to exploit becoming the foundation of my ascent.


    This development requires careful management. While I relish the fortuitous shift in dynamics, I must be astute in navigating this new reality. The opportunity before me is vast, and I intend to seize it with both hands, ensuring that the advantage granted to me is not squandered but rather used to further my own ends.


    In the grand theater of our conflict, it appears that fate itself has taken a hand. Van Helsing''s blunder has paved the way for my greater ascendancy. The stage is set, and the role I now play has been unexpectedly elevated. I will use this moment to its fullest, shaping it to secure my position and extend my influence.


    ¡ªDracula


    Ricky was taken aback, his mind struggling to reconcile the revelation as he had always believed Dracula to be the central figure of the vampire community, only to discover that the truth was far from what he had imagined.


    In fact, between 1700 and 1800, Dracula was deposed by the majority of his own kind.


    It became such a growing problem that some vampires, eager to distance themselves from his rule, actively sought out those loyal to him and killed them.


    However, with Abraham''s accidental revelation, Dracula seized this misfortune as an opportunity to strengthen his position within the community, using the public''s attention to his advantage.


    The idea and image of a vampire had unknowingly become inseparable from Dracula; one could not utter the name without thinking of him first.


    The fear that brewed from this revelation was expertly twisted by Dracula into a human scheme, fueling widespread panic among the vampires.


    In turn, Dracula reinforced his position, using the fear to solidify his dominance within the community.


    At that moment, Ricky found himself wondering if being honored as the Ricky Luciano was more meaningful than being recognized as the Black Knight.


    While he was being rewarded for his actions under the mantle of the Black Knight, it didn''t mean he had to accept the honor solely for that title.


    It was then that Ricky began to contemplate who he truly wanted Ricky Luciano to be.


    For the past three years, he had been so focused on being the identity of the Black Knight that he hadn''t given much thought to the real man behind the mask.


    After reaching a daring idea, Ricky waited since Father Sebastian usually checked up on him, never leaving him to feel truly alone or isolated.


    Knock


    "Hello Rick-" Father Sebastian began, but before he could finish, the door swung open and he was yanked inside by Ricky.


    "Father, change of plans, I have a favor to ask," Ricky said, grabbing Father Sebastian with an excited grin as the priest tilted his head, intrigued.


    "How may I assist you?"


    Next day,


    Inside the holy grounds of the Vatican, a cheering crowd gathered, the air buzzing with excitement.


    The Vatican was about to anoint its first-ever honorary cardinal, a move that sent waves of gossip rippling through the crowd.


    The announcement had come as a shock, such a position had never been awarded in the church before, especially to someone who had not undergone the traditional rites and confinements required of a member of the clergy.


    In a special room, Ricky stood, his eyes absorbed in the words of Dracula, who unknowingly had become his life coach when it came to managing a community.


    Ricky, a mutant, understood the stigma he faced, much like Dracula''s own experience with vampires.


    At first, this diary had been nothing more than a book, a curiosity, but now it had transformed into something holy, an invaluable guide for Ricky to study and learn from.


    Right now, Ricky was wearing a cardinal''s uniform, but unlike usual, there was no trace of his Black Knight attire.


    ''Ricky, are you sure this is a good idea?'' The Ebony Blade''s voice echoed with skepticism, but Ricky simply shook his head, his gaze fixed on the book in his hands as he pointed toward it, a quiet determination in his eyes.


    "Dracula was able to attach the entire vampire community to his very name after having his identity revealed to the world," Ricky said, his voice steady as he tapped the diary.


    "And I know it''s arrogant, but I want to do the same. I want to make my name synonymous with the term mutant so I can just come in and hold the power over these crazy weirdo''s who have lived for centuries." Ricky revealed the real reason behind all of this, knowing how funny it would be if the term and identity for mutant was attached to a fledgling like him.


    It was so common for mutants to hide in the shadows, much like vampires, that Ricky didn''t think it was all that crazy to imagine he could pull off the same feat Dracula had.


    After all, there were mutants out there who had likely amassed more power, more wealth, and more connections, just like Dracula had, considering there were vampires far older than him.


    Yet, despite all that, Dracula stood above them all, a symbol of dominance and defiance.


    If he could do it, why couldn''t Ricky?


    "I don''t want to hide the fact that I, Ricky Luciano, someone who holds the ''devil''s power,'' am instead one of God''s children, recognized as the first mutant by the Church." Ricky revealed, his voice unwavering as he shared his true intentions with a wide sleazy smile.


    The Ebony Blade fell silent for a moment, as if weighing his words, before it finally dawned on him.


    Ricky wasn''t just seeking power or recognition; he was aiming to reshape how the world saw mutants, to turn the stigma into a symbol of divine purpose that was solely led by him.


    Throughout his time on Earth, the Ebony Blade had encountered those labeled as ''mutants,'' but it never paid them much attention, viewing them as mere insects compared to its own vast power.


    They were nothing to concern themselves with but Ricky, in his pursuit, wanted something far more ambitious.


    He didn''t just want to shine a light on himself, he wanted it to be a holy light, a divine acknowledgment of his existence.


    Ricky had sought the Church''s backing, forming a recognition of his claim to being a mutant, and, unknowingly, a position as the first mutant to be publicly accepted, marking a turning point in both his life and the history of mutants.


    Effectively, Ricky was on the cusp of rewriting history, sending ripples through the world so powerful that he could no longer be ignored.


    But this time, he was ready.


    Confident in his abilities and the path he had carved for himself, he was prepared to make an impact, one that would reverberate through every corner of the globe, setting the stage for his grand return to New York.


    The stage was set, and Ricky Luciano, the man behind the Black Knight, was poised to become a figure of monumental change.


    "Then why am I here?" Alexander asked, his voice tinged with confusion as he stood confused at the side.


    Ricky had swiped him from his slumber and transported him to this mysterious place, leaving him unsure of what was going on.


    "You''re the most important part Alexander." Ricky said, flashing a wide smile as Alexander raised his eyebrows, clearly confused by the sudden revelation.


    "Really?"


    "Ricky, are you ready?" Father Sebastion opened the door and peaked in, a little worried about this plan.


    "Ready as I''ll ever be." Ricky said, turning to Father Sebastian with a thumbs up as Alexander, still greatly confused, glanced between the two, trying to make sense of the situation.


    Meanwhile at the balcony of the pope,


    The crowd gathered below the Vatican erupted in jubilant cheers as Pope Pius emerged onto the balcony, his serene presence commanding the attention of thousands.


    He extended his hand in a blessing, and the fervor of the crowd gradually subsided as he lowered his arm, the collective excitement waning to a hushed anticipation.


    Tap


    Tap


    "Ahem."


    The Pope adjusted the microphone, a soft click echoing through the air and with a deep breath, he cleared his throat, a warm smile spreading across his face.


    "For a long time, a particular individual has resided within the Church." Pope Pius began, his voice resonant and steady.


    "He is a man who has devoted himself not only to God but to the highest values of humanity." Pope Pius continued, his soothing words pressing into the ears of each and every single one of these people before him.


    "Yet, when he first came to us, he was burdened with doubt. Labeled a devil, he sought solace in the holy city, questioning whether he was truly a child of Satan or a child of God." The Pope''s gaze softened, a shadow of sadness flickering across his features.


    The crowd listened intently, the Pope''s words carrying a weight of deep empathy as they saw the heartfelt pain from this holy man''s words and slowly held their breath.


    "It broke my heart to witness his struggle. No one with such profound faith should ever have to question their place in the divine." Pope Pius grabbed his fist, looking towards all of these people who slowly nodded along with him.


    "I asked him, ''What makes you different from the common man?'' And he answered clearly, ''I am a mutant, I posses what they all call the Devil''s Powers.''" Pope Pius paused, the emotion evident in his eyes as if waiting for the crowd''s reaction.


    A collective gasp rippled through the crowd, the significance of his revelation sinking in, murmurs spiraling throughout the massive group of people before they quieted to let Pope Pius continue.


    "I was taken aback, much like you all right now. I had heard tales of mutants being associated with the devil and in truth, I was worried." Pope Pius placed his hands on his heart, recognizing the fear they all might be feeling and letting each one of these people feel seen.


    "But that night, while reflecting on my own thoughts, I received a vision from God. In that vision, not only did I see the whole choir of heaven, but I also saw the mutants. Those same beings, once thought to be of the devil, were embraced in God''s magnificent choir." Pope Pius held up his hands, the cloudy sky parting at his gesture as the rays of the sun shine down onto his holy being.


    "It was then I understood, mutants are indeed God''s children." Pope Pius'' voice held a note of solemn conviction as all of them were taken aback by the grandiose display since his holy form could not be denied, especially by mere peasants like them.


    "Though skepticism remained, this man''s unwavering faith and perseverance proved his devotion not only to me, not only to God, but to the entire Vatican." Pope Pius spread out his arms, his robes flailing ever so gently in the wind.


    "Today." Pope Pius continued, his tone proud and unwavering.


    "I stand before you not only to affirm that mutants are God''s children but also to introduce you to the young man who made this revelation possible." Pope Pius then gestured to his side with a man walking out.


    "Ricky Luciano."


    As the name echoed through the radio broadcast, a murmur of astonishment swept through the crowd.


    The mystery surrounding the exile of the so-called ''Prince of Brooklyn'' was unveiled to the public within New York as all the die-hard Catholics were listening.


    The mobsters, who had always regarded mutants with disdain, were particularly dismayed, realizing that the very reason for Ricky''s banishment had been overturned.


    This revelation signaled a monumental shift, one that would reverberate through the underworld.


    Ricky Luciano was making a return.


    The crowd''s cheers crescendoed as Ricky appeared on the balcony, bowing respectfully to Pope Pius and kissing his ring as the Pope''s approving gaze met him.


    "Well done, my boy. The Vatican has high expectations of you." Pope Pius said, his words a clear message to Ricky, who nodded in acknowledgment before stepping up to the microphone.


    ''Dual link activate.'' Ricky''s voice echoed in Alexander''s mind, the connection instantaneous.


    Alexander, with a scowl, felt his form begin to merge with Ricky''s, the shift both strange and unfamiliar.


    As the process unfolded, the two became one, their powers intertwining, each feeling the other''s presence more keenly than ever before.


    ''You dare-''


    Ding


    [Duel Link: Activated for 8 minutes]


    Ricky Luciano stepped up to the microphone, his presence commanding attention as the crowd below fell silent, hanging on his every word.


    The sunlight glinted off his determined expression, and he took a deep breath before speaking.


    There was a clear reason Ricky wanted to activate the dual link, but the main reason was simple yet crucial: the skill Alexander possessed.


    For the next eight minutes, Ricky would tap into that power, using it to its fullest potential.


    (Legendary Skill) (Mastery) Speeches: Alexander''s oratory skills are legendary. He can inspire and motivate armies, sway public opinion, and manipulate adversaries with his powerful and persuasive speeches, turning the tide of battles and negotiations alike.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and people of all walks of life."


    "Today marks a momentous occasion, not just for myself, but for every individual who has ever been judged, ostracized, or misunderstood. Not just as a mutant, but as a person. But right now, I stand before you not merely as Ricky Luciano, but as a representative of a community that has long been marginalized and misunderstood, mutants." Ricky had a warm smile on his face, gesturing towards the masses who clearly showed fear and unease towards him.


    "For too long, we have been labeled as ''freaks'' as beings to be feared and shunned. Our powers, which we did not choose, have been misconstrued as a mark of darkness, a sign of our supposed affiliation with malevolence. But I am here today to tell you that this perception is not just flawed, it is fundamentally wrong." Ricky gripped his fist before lightly releasing them, his calm exterior showing that he was hateful towards these fearful people, but forgiving.


    "We are not defined by the extraordinary abilities we possess but by our actions, our values, and our integrity. Just as any person has the capacity for greatness or malevolence, so too do we. Our powers are not our identity; our character is." Ricky lectured, acknowledging that they too were allowed to make mistakes just like any man or woman could.


    "Mutants have always sought to find our place in a world that has often turned its back on us. We have faced scorn and exclusion, not because of who we are, but because of who others have chosen to believe we are. But today, we embrace our truth with pride and resolve. We are not the devils of the story; we are also a part of God''s choir." Ricky showed that they weren''t better than these people before him, but deserving a place by their side, to be seen as equal and not greater or less.


    "With every challenge we face, we grow stronger. Not just as mutants but as people. With every prejudice we overcome, we become more resilient. Not just as mutants but as people. We are not here to beg for acceptance nor do we demand any sort of respect or equality. But instead, ask that all of you let us show that we are not only capable of coexisting with the rest of humanity but that we enrich it in ways unimaginable, that we are a part of humanity." Ricky voiced towered, showing that one small difference didn''t make him any less human than them.


    "We come to you, I come to you with a message of hope, of unity, and of an unwavering belief that we can and will make a difference. We ask not for your pity, but for your understanding. We ask not for your charity, but for your consideration." Ricky appealed to these people below them, speaking to them not as an enemy, but as someone they could merely talk to.


    "And to every mutant who has ever felt alone, I want you to know that it doesn''t have to be that case anymore. You are part of a community, God''s community, one that stands strong, that fights for justice, and that will not be silenced. Our time is now, and we will seize it with courage and dignity, to stand proudly in God''s choir." Ricky assured those mutants watching him in the shadows, the little boys and girls looking up towards him as long regarded waste in the alleyways.


    "Together, let us forge a new path, a path where our differences are celebrated, where our identity isn''t sought by our label, and where every individual is judged by the content of their character and not by their abilities in which they wield." Ricky words spoke with pride, gazing towards the crowd that was stung into silence.


    "Thank you."


    Ricky poured every ounce of his heart into his speech, channeling Alexander''s legendary skill with a precision that captivated everyone before him.


    His words flowed with such confidence and conviction that they seemed to resonate deep within the souls of those listening.


    Each sentence carried an undeniable power, stirring the crowd into a collective sense of awe. The audience was spellbound, hanging on every word, and as the final phrase left his lips, a thunderous applause erupted.


    It was more than a reaction; it was a recognition of the man before them, a force too undeniable to ignore.


    Of course, not everyone would welcome this sudden shift, but it didn''t matter, Ricky knew his purpose was clear.


    Ricky was set on winning over not only the majority of the Catholic faith but also drawing out the mutants who had long hidden in the shadows.


    The ripple of his announcement quickly spread throughout the mutant community, eyes now fixed firmly on Ricky.


    Everyone was watching, waiting to see if his words held weight, if his actions were genuine.


    Among them, a particular blue-skinned figure, one whose interest in Ricky''s move had been piqued, kept a close watch, curious to see whether he would truly follow through on his bold promises or falter under the weight of them.


    "I guess the cub isn''t a cub after all, but a tiger," Raven said with a sly smile, her voice laced with amusement as she chuckled to herself.


    Standing amidst the chaos, her eyes swept over the multiple lifeless bodies strewn around her.


    The scene was almost effortless, a testament to the power she wielded.


    She swayed gracefully through the room, her confidence radiating, leaving behind the carnage as she exited, unbothered, as if it were just another day in her world.


    "Marvelous speech, Ricky, marvelous!" Father Sebastion exclaimed, his voice filled with pride.


    Father Sebastion immediately pulled Ricky into a heartfelt hug, unable to contain his admiration for the young man.


    Ricky chuckled, a modest smile tugging at his lips, though the praise clearly pleased him as he returned the hug with a nod, grateful for the support.


    "I''m proud of you, Ricky," Father Sebastion suddenly proclaimed, his voice filled with a deep sincerity.


    Ricky was taken aback for a moment, his usual confidence faltering as he processed the weight of the words.


    It wasn''t often that someone expressed such genuine pride in him, and for a brief second, he allowed himself to feel the full impact of Father Sebastion''s words.


    "Uh, what-"


    "I mean, from the first day I met you, you''ve gone through so much, yet you''ve persevered," Father Sebastion continued, his eyes softening with understanding.


    "I could see that aching hole within you, that emptiness you carried. But now, I know for sure, you''ve come out the other side of the tunnel, even stronger than before." Father Sebastion''s words hung in the air, a quiet affirmation of Ricky''s growth.


    Ricky stood still, taking in the weight of Father Sebastion''s praise, a rare and powerful acknowledgment that reached deeper than any accolade.


    "Ricky, from the bottom of my heart, I want you to know that all your efforts from now, the sacrifices you had to undertake, were all worth it to see the man you''ve become before me." Father Sebastion''s words were raw, sincere, and they cut through the air like a blessing.


    Ricky couldn''t help but laugh instinctively, a nervous chuckle escaping him as if the weight of the words were almost too much.


    "Oh come on Father, you''re gonna make me tear up." Ricky laughed out, only for Father Sebastion to look to the side and smile


    "There are actually two people who want to thank you personally." Father Sebastion gestured to the side, Ricky''s eyes turning to the side and widening.


    "G-Greetings, Black Knight." Carla stammered, her cheeks flushed as she bowed slightly as a small child with black hair clung to her dress, peering shyly at Ricky.


    "Greetings." The child echoed, his voice soft but clear.


    Unlike his mother, he didn''t bow, but instead looked up at Ricky with wide, curious eyes, as if trying to place why this man resembled him so closely.


    "Greetings." Ricky bent down to the child''s level, repeating the words with a warm smile and a gentle wave as the child giggled, his curiosity growing as he studied Ricky''s face.


    "I Au-" The child, after laughing heartily, wanted to tell this man his name but Ricky beat him to the punch.


    "Augustine, I know." Ricky and the child''s eyes widened in surprise, the boy''s face breaking into a laugh at his own expression being mirrored.


    Augustine''s delighted giggles filled the air as he pointed at Ricky, amused by his surprised expression.


    "How know?" Augustine asked, tilting his head cutely as Ricky rubbed his chin for a long time.


    "How do I know your name?" Ricky seemingly asked, rubbing his chin and purposely prolonging his actions, becoming this child''s spectacle as Carla smiled warmly at the interaction.


    "Because it says it right here." Ricky pointed, pressing his finger down onto Augustine''s shirt as the child naively looked down.


    Then, with a soft flick, he brought it up into the child''s nose as Augustine flinched before covering his face.


    "Hehehehehehe!" Augustine''s child''s laughter flowed out, clearly finding it funny while waddling up to Ricky.


    "Your name here." Augustine chuckled madly, giving away the joke but even still, Ricky looked down.


    "Where-ow~" Ricky played along, looking around as Augustine slowly brought up his finger and repeated his gesture and flicked Ricky''s nose.


    "Hehehehehehehe!" Augustine laughed after seeing Ricky cover his nose, only for the man to pick him up as Augstuine continued to laugh harder.


    Sigh


    "But it hurts my feelings that you don''t know who I am." Ricky sighed, showing a glimpse of sadness as Augustine tapped face.


    "You funny man." Augustine chuckled and Ricky nodded his head, agreeing with the young three year olds evaluation.


    "I also like to think of myself as a funny man, thank you for noticing." Ricky smiled at Augustine who patted his chin with a smile.


    "You''re welcome." Augustine showed a toothy smile, Ricky looking at him for a while since he didn''t know how to say it.


    "Augustine."


    "Yes, funny man?"


    The two interactions were playful, Ricky looking at Augustine who now regarded him as ''funny man''.


    "I am your father." Ricky said in a deep and serious voice, but Augustine shook his head.


    "No, Black Knight my father." Augustine tapped Ricky''s cheek, shaking his head only for Ricky to raise his eyebrow.


    "I''m not the Black Knight?" Ricky asked, seemingly questioning his own identity as Austine nodded.


    "Yes, Black Knight is knight and swing sword like this." Augustine then swung his fist in the air, showing how the Black Knight would swing his sword.


    "You wanna see something cool?" Ricky asked Augstine, the young child obviously nodding his head fiercely.


    "Yeah!"


    Then in the next moment, to Augustine''s starry eyes, the transformation was nothing short of magical.


    Ricky slowly shifted, his Black Knight attire materializing around him, the dark fabric settling seamlessly into place.


    With one hand, he gently cradled the young child, and with the other, he held the Ebony Blade, its dark edge gleaming in the light.


    The child''s gaze was wide with awe, mesmerized by the sight of the formidable figure before him.


    Then as if copying the child''s motion earlier, he swung the sword as Augustine''s mouth was held open before Ricky looked at him.


    "How was it, did I swing my sword right?" Ricky asked Augustine, who was currently hopping up and down in his hold.


    "YEAH, YEAH!" Augustine clapped his hands, his eyes sparkling like the milky way.


    "Oh thank god, I thought I messed it up." Ricky exaggerated his sigh, only to receive a tap on his chin again.


    "Bad, no say lord in vain." Augustine frowned, tapping his chin repeatedly as Ricky understood.


    "Oh, sorry." Ricky apologized to Augustine who then smiled again, patting his shoulder.


    "I forgive." Augustine said, his voice filled with unexpected grace as he looked up at Ricky.


    "Ricky, would you care to spend one last night before departing? The Vatican has prepared various gifts for you but they still need to be sorted." Father Sebastion asked as Ricky thought about it before his sleazy eyes landed on Carla blushing at the side.


    "You know what, I think I could spare one night." Ricky turned his smile towards Father Sebastion who smiled warmly.


    It wasn''t strange to say that Father Sebastion had taken on the role of Godfather to Augustine in the time he had been within the vatican.


    However, Father Sebastion truly did wish for Ricky to spend more time with him since he knew how much the little Augustine regarded the tales of the Black Knight.


    For the remainder of the day, Ricky wandered the familiar grounds of the Vatican, but with a new sense of wonder that was carried in his arms.


    Augustine eagerly pointed out all the things that caught his eye; statues, gardens, and hidden corners that only a child''s imagination could bring to life.


    Ricky followed along, taking in the joy of seeing the world through Augustine''s bright, curious gaze.


    Ricky couldn''t help but smile as Augustine, with boundless energy and excitement, tugged him through the garden.


    The child''s enthusiasm was contagious as he led Ricky to all his favorite hide-and-seek spots; each nook and cranny marked with the laughter of countless games.


    Augustine''s sense of adventure reminded Ricky of simpler times, when the world felt vast and full of endless possibilities.


    The garden, with its twists and turns, became a playground, and for a moment, Ricky played along as if he was just another kid, lost in the joy of the game with his son.


    "Augustine, dear, it''s time for bed!" Carla yelled out towards the garden, knowing that Augustine was there since that was his favorite place to play.


    "B-B-But-"


    "No buts, it''s past your bedtime." Carla lectured Augustine who popped out of a nearby bush, pouting and kicking a nearby pebble.


    "Fine~" Augustine whined, following his mother with Ricky jumping down from the ledge.


    "That''s cheating!" Augustine turned back, seeing Ricky was on the roof this whole time.


    "Woah, woah, you never said I couldn''t hide on the roof." Ricky crossed his arms, lecturing Augstuine who frowned but then smiled.


    "I want you to tuck me in." Augustine suddenly rushed over to Ricky, wrapping around Ricky''s leg while giggling as he was lifted up.


    "Alright, but listen to your mother and wash up or whatever you do to get ready for bed." Ricky gave his condition, Augustine immediately releasing his leg and rushing to follow Carla who couldn''t even look him in the eye.


    Augustine bounced on the bed with infectious laughter, his small body lifting into the air with every giggle before settling back down with a soft thud.


    Carla stood at the side, smiling fondly at the sight of her son''s carefree joy.


    Ricky leaned back against the wall beside the bed, watching the child with a quiet amusement.


    "Alright you know Dracula, the evil vampire?" Ricky asked Augustine who jerked his head up and down.


    "I''m going to tell you the story about how I kicked his butt-" Ricky then went on to explain in slightly poor detail about his fight with Dracula but even then, Augustine listened to the entire story.


    All the ups and downs, all the cliffhangers that Ricky prolonged until his eyes wearily closed shut and he dozed off.


    Caressing his black hair, Ricky looked at the sleeping Augustine for a long time until he stood up.


    Carla stood just outside the door in her nun attire, a gentle presence that seemed to blend seamlessly with the sacred atmosphere of the Vatican.


    Ever since becoming an honorary lady of the church, she had embraced her new role with quiet dignity, all while continuing in raising the Black Knight''s bloodline.


    "Oh my sweet Carla, did I make you wait long~" Ricky appeared behind Carla, his silky voice caressing her ear which made her shiver.


    Ricky''s eyes were completely sleazy at this point, running his hands up her leg and under her nun attire which completely turned him on.


    "I wanted to talk to you about something." Ricky began, his voice low as he leaned in, resting his chin on her shoulder.


    "I can''t bring you with me right now, not with New York about to be a mess. You''re safer here and wanted to get to know what you''ve been up to since I left." Ricky''s hand gently trailed up her leg, the touch slow and deliberate.


    Carla''s blush deepened with each subtle graze of his fingers, her breath catching slightly as she fought to maintain composure.


    The air between them thickened, charged with unspoken tension, but Ricky''s words remained steady, even as his presence seemed to pull her closer.


    "But talking with words doesn''t seem enough to make up for all that time, don''t you think?" Ricky asked, his finger lightly grazing against her motherly folds, before slipping in.


    "Y-Yes~"


    Author''s Note: Next chap will be the last of Volume 2 and the Q&A will be posted as well.

 Chapter 112 - 109: A Fallen Angel (R18)

    Chapter 112: Chapter 109: A Fallen Angel (R18)


    "God, you smell so damn good~" Ricky murmured into Carla''s ear, his voice low and heated as he watched her tremble in his arms.


    Carla nearly contorted in Ricky''s embrace, her body twisting and turning as she struggled to contain the sultry words swirling on the tip of her tongue.


    However, even if Carla wanted to regain her composure, Ricky''s sheer presence enveloped her, compelling her into a calm and relaxed state.


    His words, blunt yet laced with an irresistible allure, made her blush deepen with every syllable he spoke.


    Finally, his hands slipped beneath her modest attire, his fingers exploring with a deliberate, tantalizing slowness as they ventured into her folds.


    One hand traced his touch along the sensitive curve of her walls, while the other teased her clit with slow, deliberate movements.


    Carla''s moan, suppressed for as long as she could manage, finally broke free, and Ricky''s smile widened in satisfaction.


    ''Wet to the touch.''


    "A-Ah~" Carla couldn''t hold back any longer, a soft moan escaping her lips before she quickly covered her mouth, her wide eyes darting nervously around the hallway.


    "N-Not here, Ricky w-w can''t-"


    "Can''t what?" Ricky asked, his hands intensifying their amplifying movements, making Carla shiver uncontrollably.


    "Can''t-ah~" Carla tried to speak, desperate to say something, anything to stop Ricky from making her feel so overwhelmed in the hallway, but another moan escaped her before she could finish.


    "Ricky~" Carla whimpered, glancing back at him with teary eyes, her voice filled with both need and longing.


    Ricky''s reaction was immediate, his desire intensifying as his lips captured hers in a passionate kiss.


    Ricky pulled his pants down just enough, his ravenous lips silencing Carla''s words as he lifted her robes with a swift, purposeful motion.


    Carla, lost in the kiss, closed her eyes as her tongue danced with Ricky''s, but suddenly, her eyes snapped open, a surge of awareness jolting through her.


    Instinctively attempting to pull away, Ricky deepened the kiss as he felt her pupils flutter upwards as he slowly slid his cock into her, the heat of her embrace pulling him in deeper.


    ''Jesus Christ, it''s like I never left.'' Ricky thought, his tongue swirling around Carla''s as he felt her tighten around him.


    Even after having Augustine, Carla felt the same way when he took her in that storage closet.


    Ricky shivered slightly, thrusting the last part of his cock into Carla and feeling the tightness of her wet cave compact and twitch around him.


    Carla felt completely out of breath, her body pressed against the wall as she struggled to regain any semblance of coherence, her voice faltering into nothing more than sultry, wet breaths.


    Ricky held her firmly in place, impaled on his being as his tongue surged into her mouth, dominating every facet of her completely.


    Breaking away, her tongue remained outstretched, a drop of Ricky''s saliva slipping down its edge and dripping onto the floor below.


    Instead of a rebuttal, Ricky was met with a look of a reformed attic caught chasing an old high, as Carla melted into his embrace.


    It was only brief, but Ricky''s addictive touch had left Carla on edge for months after they departed, until she finally regained control of herself.


    Yet, after tasting him once more, feeling his saliva swirl around her tastebuds once more, Carla felt a wave of numbness wash over her as she relished the return of that familiar feeling.


    "I''ve always wanted to f*ck a nun, Carla, and now, I''m going to," Ricky smirked, his smile taking on a sleazier edge as he slightly pulled back his hips.


    With one fluid motion, he slammed it all back into Carla, her walls reacting as she swelled around him, nectar dripping down her thighs as she strained under the intensity.


    Carla wanted to moan, to scream, but she bit her lip instead, knowing they weren''t just in the hallway, they were right outside her little Augustine''s room.


    "Ricky, take me in your room-" Carla almost begged, her voice trailing off as she glanced back, before her pleading eyes rolled back in sheer desire.


    Thwap


    The wet, squelching sound of Ricky''s cock plunging into her flushed folds echoed through the hallway, cutting off her words and drawing a reaction from deep within her.


    "Carla, what kind of example are we setting if we don''t finish the things we started?" Ricky asked, his voice tight as the veins in his neck pulsed, his hands slipping under her robe.


    His fingertips traced along her olive skin, savoring the familiar curves as he shamelessly groped her, all while his cock filled her completely.


    Carla''s head rested against the wall, her teeth clenched as ragged breaths escaped her, the sound of her moans replacing the sharp huffs.


    Their reunion flashing through her mind, remembering as Carla felt a rush of anxiety and embarrassment when she saw Ricky again, relieved he hadn''t forgotten, but deeply self-conscious about how she had behaved the first time they were together.


    Even then, she couldn''t fathom how she had acted in such a disgraceful way, but now the memory flooded back, how her body had become putty in Ricky''s lustful hands.


    Ricky shaped her, controlled her, consumed her entirely, as Carla felt herself slipping deeper and deeper into his hold once more.


    "Just let it out Carla, let it out." Ricky''s voice was a devilish whisper, his face flushed a sadistic red at the thought of her moaning in God''s house, without a single care.


    Ricky wanted to see it, he wanted to break her, to turn her from this nun-like figure back into the woman who had screamed at his touch in a mere storage closet.


    THWAP


    The sound of her wet cunt spiraled out as Ricky rammed his hips into her small perky ass, a splash following from her convulsing folds.


    The floor beneath them was slowly dripping, soaking with Carla''s essence, the holy sanctum tainted by the lust of a woman torn between devotion and desire.


    Carla was meant to be inducted into the nunhood, to take a vow to God, yet here she was, giving her entire being to Ricky instead.


    "Let it out~" Ricky whispered again, driving into Carla''s backside, watching her convulse with every thrust, every movement.


    It took every ounce of her strength to keep those sultry, wet moans contained beneath her trembling tongue.


    She looked up to God for strength as Ricky slithered himself around her body, yanking her mind back into the relentless chain of pleasure.


    Her mind swirled with pleasure, every thought of rebuttal crushed with each kiss of his tip against her womb.


    Ricky''s eyes were predatory, knowing Carla was his and would never be devoted to anything but his cock and that thought drove him to increase his pace.


    That''s when Ricky grabbed both of her hands, pulling them back as he thrust with even more aggression, forcing Carla''s back to arch upwards.


    Carla''s head jerked up as his cock smashed into her, swarming her mind with a torrent of pure pleasure as her teeth ground together, and drool escaped from the side of her open mouth


    She clenched, twitched, and gushed around Ricky, already fallen to his whims, the only resistance left being her mind.


    It was a ruthless cycle of motion, Ricky pulling out just enough for the tip of his cock to graze her folds, only to yank her arms back and impale her once more.


    THWAP


    THWAP


    THWAP


    The wet, suffocating applause of Carla''s pussy echoed through the hallway, filling the air with the slimy and filthy, primal acts of the two heathens.


    Their sinful embrace left the floor drenched in a lustful combination of liquids, as Carla continually spewed nectar with every unforgiving thrust.


    Carla''s folds were squealing for mercy, but her mouth remained tightly shut, trying to preserve the last bit of dignity in God''s house and yet, her very foundations were crumbling under the force of Ricky


    His cock twitched in the constant embrace that wrapped around him, fueling his lust as he ramped up his pace.


    Ricky''s jaw tightened as he ramped up his pace to another level, slamming back into Carla, who took every thrust without a single moan or complaint.


    Ricky''s balls churned with a strain, urging him to release everything into Carla as he pulled his hips back once more


    Carla, nearly broken at this point, felt her being hollow out as he pulled away before Ricky drove his entire body into the next thrust, pressing up against her.


    Carla''s eyes widened to an abnormal degree as she felt Ricky swarm every inch of her insides, splitting her insides, and then pushing even further


    Her body instinctively tried to push away, but Ricky followed, pinning her against the wall as Carla was forced to take every inch of him.


    It was then that the last spark of resolve, the final shred of will, completely melted away under the feeling of his cum pouring into her.


    The warmth that had driven her into a numb state in that closet three years ago resurfaced with purpose, threatening to flip everything she stood for upside down as she opened her mouth.


    "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH~" Carla screamed, releasing the pleasure she''d been holding in, her mind turning to mush as her insides flushed with the intensity of her climax.


    Ricky wrapped his arms around Carla, pressing his face into the curve of her neck as he held her against him as he kept her locked in place.


    Chaining her entire body, her every breath, chained to his cock which continuously pumped her full of cum.


    Carla''s scream riddled moans dissolved into a breathless, pleasure-soaked moan, her lungs struggling to draw in air beneath Ricky''s relentless hold.


    She was left gasping, her chest heaving as his grip kept her captive, her body trembling under the force of it all.


    Tears slipped from her eyes, but a smile tugged at her lips as she stared up at the ceiling, feeling that connection that was seemingly lost three years ago.


    Carla had broken beneath the weight of Ricky, reshaped by the overwhelming pleasure, and completely consumed by his presence once more.


    "A-Ah~" Carla trembled, on the brink of collapsing onto the drenched ground, but Ricky kept her steady, slowly pulling out before lifting her effortlessly into a princess carry, tugging his pants up just enough to regain his composure.


    "Don''t worry, I''ve masked our voices with a magic barrier so that no one but me could hear those beautiful moans." Ricky assured Carla, who was still twitching in his arms as he carried her down the hallway.


    "I''m sorry, but I just couldn''t resist seeing you squirm and whine in my arms." Ricky teased as he walked into his room, closing the door behind him with a soft click.


    Ricky gently laid Carla on the bed, her hazy eyes watching him as he slowly peeled off his shirt.


    Her cheeks flushed instinctively, and already lost in that haze of pleasure, her hands moved on their own, reaching out as she stared at his chest, blushing even deeper.


    Ricky hadn''t even fully removed his shirt when he felt Carla''s fingers tracing along the grooves of his abs.


    Her gaze was fixed on his chest, and he couldn''t help but chuckle softly at her eager touch.


    "Wow~" Carla muttered, the word slipping out before she fully snapped out of her daze. Realizing what she''d just said, her eyes widened in embarrassment.


    "I-you-it''s-"


    "It''s alright, feel me up as much as you want." Ricky said with a teasing grin, catching her hand before she could pull away as he guided it back to his abs, letting her fingers explore the hard lines of his muscles.


    "In fact, after all this time, it''s only fair that you have your way with me," Ricky said with a playful glint in his eyes.


    His grin widened as he got a mischievous idea, grabbing Carla and pulling her on top of him as he leaned back, inviting her touch.


    Ricky fell back onto the bed, his momentum causing Carla to land squarely on top of him.


    Her eyes went wide as she realized their new position, her face turning a deep shade of red.


    She couldn''t stop her gaze from flickering between Ricky''s teasing smile, his piercing eyes, and the sculpted body beneath her.


    Carla was completely frozen in embarrassment, her face so red it looked like steam might actually be pouring from her ears.


    Ricky, however, only found more amusement in her flustered state, a wicked grin spreading across his face as he enjoyed teasing her even further.


    "Ricky~" Carla whined, her voice barely a whisper as she tried to hide her face with her free hand.


    But before she could, Ricky caught it effortlessly, gripping both her hands and grinning up at her, clearly enjoying every second of her flustered state.


    His fingers interlocked with hers, leaving Carla with nothing to hide the overwhelming shyness that had taken over her.


    She sat there for a moment, her thoughts swirling, trying to summon the courage that always seemed to slip away.


    Finally, she turned to Ricky, her eyes flickering with uncertainty, yet something deep inside her made her face him.


    "T-Thank you," Carla whispered quickly, her voice soft and trembling.


    Ricky leaned up slightly, his face coming closer as he watched her eyes slowly meet his, the air between them thick with unspoken tension.


    "For what? If anything, I should thank you for giving me a beautiful son." Ricky said, his voice low and teasing as he lightly pecked her lips, but before she could respond, his lips found hers again, this time with a deeper, more lingering kiss.


    The kiss was passionate, soft yet intense, a stark contrast to the aggressive moments before.


    Which was Carla who finally broke the kiss, her breath shaky as she rested her forehead against his, her eyes closing as she sought a moment of calm amidst the whirlwind of emotions.


    "Thank you for not abandoning me. For giving me and Augustine this wonderful life," Carla said, her voice filled with gratitude as she looked at Ricky, appreciating all he had done for her and their child.


    But Ricky''s expression faltered, his smile fading into a frown as the weight of her words seemed to stir something in him, and he looked at her with a complexity in his eyes.


    Ricky''s gaze lingered on Carla, her modest robe a stark contrast to the lavish life he could have given her.


    His eyes flickered to the simple, lackluster scenery of the Vatican, frustration building within him.


    Ricky slowly realized that he wasn''t happy with this reaction of Carla and had expected more, for her to be more greedy.


    In his mind, Carla should have asked for everything, for anything, and he would have given it all to her.


    But instead, she had thanked him, content with the life he had already provided, and was gracious with what she had.


    It left him feeling a mix of confusion and something deeper, an unspoken desire to give her more than she ever thought to ask for.


    It was then that he pulled up that completed mission from three years ago, what he thought was a chance to get closer to her had actually revealed something deeper.


    The description didn''t just describe a path to her; it revealed who she truly was.


    Carla was a kind soul, someone born with nothing but a rough life, expected to struggle and survive in the mud, yet she never let it tarnish her spirit.


    What made it even worse was the culture Carla had been raised in, where she was taught from an early age that she would never be more than a mistress.


    She had accepted this harsh reality, understanding that she would likely be treated as nothing more than a plaything by a mobster, perhaps even ridiculed by the legitimate wife.


    Yet, despite all of this, even though Ricky had only held her once, in a random closet, she couldn''t help but feel something more and that brief moment, however fleeting, had meant more to her than she ever expected.


    Ricky had sent her to a place where she was treated as something more, someone worthy of respect.


    The knowledge that she would never be treated like dirt again warmed Carla''s heart.


    It was a feeling she hadn''t known in so long, a sense of dignity she had long been denied, and it gave her a newfound strength, knowing that someone, especially Ricky, saw her for who she truly was.


    All of this overwhelmed Ricky, causing him to collapse onto the bed, the springs creaking beneath them.


    He stared at Carla, her warm smile reflecting a quiet strength and gratitude that made his chest tighten.


    For a moment, everything else faded, and it was just the two of them, sharing a silent understanding that spoke volumes.


    "Don''t you want more?" Ricky couldn''t help but ask, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and concern.


    But Carla slowly shook her head, her smile gentle yet firm, as if she knew exactly what she needed and didn''t want anything else.


    "What you''ve given me is more than I could''ve ever asked for or deserved-" Carla began to say, but Ricky''s smile faltered, his teasing expression replaced by a deeper, more serious frown.


    "What if I think you deserve more?" Ricky asked, his voice low and intense as he gently cupped Carla''s face, bringing it close to his as his serious gaze locked with hers.


    With a slow, deliberate motion, he pressed a soft kiss to the back of her hand, the gesture filled with a tenderness that spoke volumes before releasing her blushing face.


    "I-I couldn''t possibility think-"


    "But I think you should. Isn''t that enough reason?" Ricky asked, his words strangely compelling despite not making much sense.


    Carla found herself speechless, unsure of how to respond to the intensity in his voice and the conviction behind his words.


    "But-"


    "Nope, I''ve decided to give you and Augustine more," Ricky interrupted, his tone firm as his hands reluctantly pulled away from her hand.


    In a swift motion, he removed her nun''s robes, tossing them aside with a determined look in his eyes.


    "Starting with this ugly ass robe, you''re going to wear only the finest silk, because I said so." Ricky said, his tone firm as his hand gripped hers.


    "And this body, this beautiful body, will only wear the most serene jewels to complement it." Ricky lifted himself to meet her gaze, gently placing Carla on his lap as she sat spellbound by his promises.


    "It''s-"


    "Not enough? Then I''ll buy you a mansion, somewhere that can match your new lifestyle." Ricky kissed her collarbone, his lips trailing up to meet hers, sealing them in a passionate kiss.


    It was then that Ricky lifted her petite frame, positioning her already cum soaked folds above his towering cock as Carla hovered over his hardened form, her body already trembling with anticipation.


    Then, slowly, Ricky guided her down, her body sinking onto him as she gracefully slid down his length in such a graceful manner, each movement bringing them closer until he was fully inside her, completely enveloped by Carla.


    Muffled moans trickled out her throat, though it was entirely filled by Ricky''s tongue, swirling in a graceful motion that coaxed them deeper.


    His hand gently cupped her chin, holding her in the intensity of his kiss, while his other hand gripped her perky ass, squeezing tightly.


    Ricky gripped her tightly, bobbing it slowly up and down, savoring the reactions of her body, every twitch and slight jerk at his every motion as he couldn''t get enough of it.


    "Ah~" Carla finally managed to gasp, once Ricky released her lips and trailed his kisses down to her slick, sweet body.


    Her body swayed above him like a wave, moving gracefully back and forth, while her face tilted toward the sky, her eyes closed as she relished the sensation


    There were no aggressive thrusts; Ricky made sure Carla felt every inch of him, the pulsing veins against her wet walls, every twitch that sent shivers down her spine.


    "AH~" Carla let out a sensual moan, arching her body backward as Ricky wrapped his arms around her, keeping this beautiful woman from falling from grace.


    Allowing this angel to spread her wings, bestowing divine messages through her wet lips and lighting up the room with the mere presence of her heavenly form.


    Then, Ricky no longer had to guide her; Carla took control, sensually lifting her hips, revealing his cock, slobbered in her angelic essence before she lowered herself slowly and gracefully, enveloping him in the warmth of her blessed being.


    Their bodies intertwined, not with ravenous intensity or brute force, but with a refined, deliberate elegance


    It was a mutual respect, melting into one another as Carla allowed herself to merge with Ricky, feeling him elevate the pleasure to an entirely different level of experience.


    "A-Ah~" Carla''s steamy moan escaped her luscious lips as she leaned forward, wrapping her arms around Ricky''s neck and pulling him deeper into her embrace.


    Both held each other tightly as Carla increased her pace, while Ricky anchored her with a firm grip.


    The room was filled with the slick, wet sounds of Carla gently rising atop Ricky, clinging to him with every part of her body, her heart, and her soul.


    Carla felt the rising swell in the pit of her stomach, but instead of fleeing from it, being ashamed of it, she embraced it, spreading her wings and soaring toward it as her hips descended onto Ricky''s firm body.


    Her angelic nectar leaked onto Ricky''s thigh, staining the cheap sheets beneath them with their intoxicating essence.


    Everything about Ricky made Carla feel comfortable showing this side of herself, vulnerable and bare, as she wanted him to have it all.


    Her folds drooled on his cock with every lift of her body, then engulfing him over and over in a fast, fluid rhythm


    Carla longed to feel the twitch of his body send shivers down her spine, wanting him to experience all the joy he had brought her.


    Even when she was in control, Carla unselfishly wanted Ricky to feel everything he desired, bouncing on top of him in a swift rhythm as her moans flowed like a storm.


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    "Ah~"


    Carla wrapped her arms around Ricky''s neck, using it as leverage to quicken her pace, anchoring herself as her moans spilled out, a clear sign she was losing herself.


    When Carla willingly sank down onto Ricky once more, she felt the aching twitch that built to fill her deeply.


    Her resolve resurfaced as she lifted her body to the top of his cock, then slammed down in a relentless manner.


    CLAP


    Her ass smacked against her thighs as her wings, once spread with such innocence, began to willingly darken, symbolizing her complete surrender and corruption to the man who wanted to give her everything she didn''t ask for.


    CLAP


    Her hips moved with ravenous intent, enveloping Ricky completely as her form descended upon him, her angelic presence slowly transforming into something more untamed.


    CLAP


    The grace was wilting away, trickling away with each bead of sweet extinguished from her pours as she slammed her body down onto his cock.


    CLAP


    Longing for that intoxicating feeling that numbed her senses, as Ricky''s body tightened around her, leaving her breathless and exhausted, yet she pressed on.


    CLPA


    Ricky felt his balls tighten, his climax approaching as he looked up at Carla, who smiled gently, her presence illuminated by a flickering light that seemed to halo around her.


    Leaning in, her lips delicately brushed against his before her body descended from the heavens, falling onto cock.


    Carla''s entire body shook uncontrollably, her insides flushing as an erupting warmth flooded her, erasing every trace of purity and filling her with his milky cum.


    The heat of him made her heart race, his essence swirling inside her, settling deep within her stomach as she didn''t shy away from it; instead, she sank further into the sensation, embracing it fully.


    Carla fully surrendered to her own pleasure, feeling it surge to an entirely new level before collapsing into Ricky''s arms, breathless and spent.


    Their lips parted with heavy breaths, both of them collapsing into each other as Carla rested her head on his shoulder, completely drained.


    Ricky could have gone a few more rounds, but he held back, gently pushing aside the strands of her tangled hair to soothe her weary face.


    "Come here." Ricky leaned back, guiding her into the worn, cheap bed as he pulled the covers over them.


    Carla nestled into his embrace, feeling at home in the warmth he provided, both inside and out, allowing herself to be fully consumed by Ricky.


    The night passed in each other''s arms, wrapped in warmth, until the first light of dawn revealed the intertwining of their bodies, bathed in the soft glow of the rising sun.


    Carla''s eyes fluttered open, her gaze tracing Ricky''s form, bathed in the soft morning light as she was mesmerized, her hands gently brushing against his skin as if she were discovering him all over again.


    "I know, even I get lost in my own features," Ricky whispered, his green eyes narrowing into crescent moons as they caught Carla clearly red handed, who was too trapped in his embrace to escape her embarrassment.


    "Good morning~" Ricky whispered, kissing her palm and chuckling at the things that never change as Carla ducked her head, yet managed to meet his gaze.


    "Good morning."


    For the next hour or so, Ricky refused to let her slip from his embrace, savoring every moment with her body until, eventually, he allowed her to gently break free with one small condition.


    "I-I have to go check on Augustine, but about earlier-"


    "Don''t worry, just trust me." Ricky slid up behind her, fully dressed, while Carla glanced at the clothes, which were anything but modest.


    Ricky had torn her nun robes, gone through a portal, and returned with an expensive dress from Dracula''s castle, offering it to Carla.


    Carla hesitated, wanting to refuse since it seemed too extravagant for her, but the fact that it was a gift from Ricky made her feel ashamed to turn it down.


    To make matters worse in Carla''s mind, the jewelry Ricky had inherited from the mafia families after that massacre three years ago now adorned her body.


    Once draped in dull clothes, she now sparkled like a star, her mere presence demanding the attention of everyone around her.


    10 minutes later,


    BAM


    "Father Ricky, how can I help you-" Pope Pius was interrupted as he looked up from reviewing multiple papers to see Ricky kicking open the doors and marching in.


    To the Pope''s confusion, Ricky slammed two gold bars onto his desk, locking eyes with him as he did.


    "Am I being bribed?" Pope Pius genugly asked, really confused at what was happening as Ricky shook his head.


    "No, this is for you to give Carla the treatment of a queen until I''ve completely cleared out New York." Ricky tapped the gold bars, and Pope Pius slowly began to grasp what was happening.


    "Father Ricky, I think you are confused but we offered her-"


    "I know, she probably rejected them with some excuse like, ''I would never want to use the Lord''s funds on my undeserving self,'' right?" Ricky said, finishing his thought as Pope Pius merely shrugged in response.


    "Well, just tell her it''s not the Lord''s funds, but mine. She''ll bend after two or three more assurances," Ricky instructed, and Pope Pius nodded slowly in understanding.


    "May I ask what a ''queen''s treatment'' entails?" Pope Pius inquired, clearly seeking more guidance on how to proceed as Ricky simply shrugged in response.


    "I don''t know, just get her a luxurious room with handmaidens or servants, or whatever they''re called." Ricky said, then placed some jewelry on the counter as Pope Pius looked up at him.


    "And this?''


    "It''s jewelry for her. And can you make sure she gets proper boxes, or whatever fancy containers you use for expensive jewelry?" Ricky gestured to the pieces as Pope Pius leaned back in his chair.


    "Anything else?" Pope Pius asked, clearly unconcerned, since it wasn''t a big deal, especially with Ricky providing the funds.


    "I think that''s it." Ricky nodded, and Pope Pius smiled before crossing his hands.


    "Then may we discuss Augustine future-"


    "No." Ricky shook his head, and Pope Pius tilted his.


    "No?"


    "I''m not going to force Augustine to be the future Black Knight. If he wants to, that''s fine, but I just want him to grow up happy and be able to do whatever the f*ck he chooses. Even if that means being some weird abstract painter." Ricky held up a finger, clearly emphasizing that he wasn''t about to subject Augustine to such mind-shattering experiences.


    "But the church-"


    "Has a Black Knight, and that''s enough." Ricky raised his gaze, clearly drawing a line before Pope Pius, signaling that it wasn''t a matter up for debate.


    "I''m the Black Knight, and that''s the end of this conversation." Ricky knocked on the table, then turned around and waved as he walked away.


    "Message me if anyone tries to mess with the church. I''ll come and kill them all!" Ricky assured Pope Pius as he turned the corner, leaving the Pope to his thoughts.


    "Such an interesting development," Pope Pius muttered to himself, but he didn''t say another word and resumed his work.


    Meanwhile in the garden,


    "Kitty, come here, kitty~" Augustine giggled madly, chasing after the scurrying Garfield, who was suddenly scooped up and tossed in front of one of Ricky''s other bastards.


    "Stay away, you devil''s spawn!" Garfield yelled, trying to scurry up a tree, only to slam into an invisible barrier and tumble back into Augustine''s hold.


    Sigh


    "It had to be done." Alexander relented, resting on Ricky''s shoulder as he glanced at Garfield being hugged by one of Ricky''s other little ones.


    "Good kitty~" Augustine cooed, not strangling Garfield like Zatanna and John, but holding him gently while softly and respectfully stroking his orange fur.


    "Oh, kid, you''ve got talent." Garfield melted into Augustine''s scratching, the boy finding that sweet spot behind the fat cat''s ear.


    "I changed my mind, you can be my servant." Garfield let out a contented sigh, patting Augustine''s cheek as the child laughed at the talking cat.


    Carla smiled by Ricky''s side, pleased to see Augustine acting like a normal child as he sat beneath a tree, giggling while holding Garfield.


    "Ricky, the gifts have all been arranged for your storage." Father Sebastian walked into the scene, his smile gentle as Ricky glanced over, then returned his gaze to Carla.


    "I have to go, don''t miss me too much." Ricky kissed her cheek, and Carla blushed, nodding slightly, feeling a bit rigid with all the jewelry draped across her being.


    "Hey Augustine, I need that fat orange cat over there." Ricky called out to Augustine, who immediately pouted at the thought of giving up Garfield.


    "I''m not even mad about that old insult of yours, since I''ve attained a higher level beyond mere-" Garfield brushed Ricky aside, only to be carefully pulled from Augustine''s grasp as his eyes opened.


    "Why am I not being messaged by my new manservant, Augustine?" Garfield seemingly asked Ricky, who was holding him under the armpit.


    "But I want to play with kitty-"


    "When you''re older, and don''t worry, with your looks, you''ll do just fine-oh, you mean Garfield." Ricky laughed, Augustine tilting his head at his father''s words while Father Sebastian facepalmed.


    "Ricky!" Father Sebastian shuffled over to Augustine, pressing his ears together and giving Ricky a sharp look.


    "Sorry, I kinda zoned out there for a second." Ricky shrugged, then looked back at Carla and gave her a thumbs-up as she let out a small sigh but smiled.


    "Anyways, I''ll see you later, and Father Sebastian." Ricky opened a portal to the side, then glanced at Father Sebastian, who nodded in response.


    "Do not worry Ricky, for I, shall be a guiding light and teach Augustine all the ways-"


    "What? No, I was going to tell you not to make my son a pussy. Anyways, see you later." Ricky then rubbed Augustine''s head, waving goodbye to the child, who waved back.


    Ricky then turned back to Carla, flashing her a sleazy smile that made her blush furiously as she waved goodbye to him.


    Sigh


    "Can I hear now?" Augustine asked Father Sebastian, who sighed softly and nodded. The child then ran over to Carla, who picked him up.


    They continued on their morning walk until Father Sebastian slowly stood up and turned to the side.


    "Are you sure you don''t want to say goodbye?" Father Sebastian asked, turning back to Rachael, who appeared from the side, rubbing her arm.


    "H-How-"


    "Oh gosh, I can recognize a Van Helsing signature from miles away." Father Sebastian smiled warmly at the girl.


    "Are you sure that this is the path you wish to take, the Van Helsing family is free-"


    "No, I want to do more, be more." Rachael then glanced at the spot where Ricky had walked into the portal.


    "I want to be someone strong enough to stand by his side."


    Meanwhile at Dracula''s harbor,


    A massive transport ship stood ready, awaiting its final passenger, as a green portal appeared and Ricky stepped through.


    "I can''t believe you used me like that yesterday. I mean, a heads-up would''ve been nice." Alexander grumbled, crossing his paws on Ricky''s shoulder.


    "Oh, come on, Alexander, don''t be like that. We''re about to see Chester after so long." Ricky laughed, quickly changing the topic as Alexander''s face lit up.


    "Oh yeah, my old comrade in arms!" Alexander quickly became excited, forgetting his anger as he realized he was about to reunite with his old friend.


    As Ricky walked aboard the cargo ship that housed everything the witches and warlocks needed, he was met by the alluring figure of Agatha, sitting with both of his kids.


    It was then a witch, moving cargo alongside the others, slightly gaze at Ricky in a dark light alongside the sword sheathed at his side.


    "RICKY!" Lilith yelled from behind him, her face stubborn as he boarded the ship.


    "Hey-"


    "I''M GOING TO BECOME SO STRONG AND INFLUENTIAL THAT YOU''LL HAVE TO BE MY KING!" Lilith screamed in proclamation, then immediately flew back toward the castle, covering her face.


    "Uh, okay." Ricky tilted his head, then turned back to a now annoyed Agatha as Zatanna reached out her hands.


    "Papa, papa!" Zatanna giggled, her hands swaying in the air, while John played with his binky off to the side.


    "Oh, don''t bother your father, Zatanna. He''s too busy with his whores." Agatha got up and swayed away, while Ricky sighed heavily at the treatment.


    ''I kinda deserve that.'' Ricky muttered, then walked to the helm of the ship, looking out toward the water.


    Looking out into the distance, a sleazy smile crossed Ricky''s face as the message he had sent earlier in his speech was entirely directed at the mafia in New York.


    It was arrogant, but Ricky wanted them to know he was coming, he wanted them to stew in fear, constantly on edge, consumed by paranoia with them being unable to do anything.


    And after they were driven to the brink of insanity, only then would he grant them the sweet release of death.


    ''Just wait New York cause I''m about to flip your sh*t upside down.''


    Meanwhile at the luciano residence,


    Lucky sat at his desk with a warm smile, gazing at a portrait, when the door opened to reveal Meyer and Frank.


    "Lucky, the other bosses are scrambling and fortifying themselves-"


    "Let them, but send out letters to set up an emergency committee meeting." Lucky picked up the portrait, which had a laminated card featuring the King of Diamonds.


    "Is that a good idea?" Frank asked, scratching his head though couldn''t help but smile, knowing that Ricky now had the power to give his little brother the funeral he deserved.


    "Probably not, but I think we owe it to him to give the exiled prince such a grand gift, don''t we?"

 Chapter 113: Q&A/Critisms/Suggestions Part 2

    Chapter 113: Q&A/Critisms/Suggestions Part 2


    With the second arc offically coming to a close, I thought it was better to hold off rather than simply doing it after Ricky killed Dracula.


    First, when I did this Q&A it was mostly to direct respond to the critism of Ricky''s character since for a good stint back then, those were the type of comments I got.


    So I thought I would do this Q&A to let you, the readers, feel more heard since simply replying to your question on a random Chapter might go overlooked to others who were curious about the same question.


    But now I''m just going to do it annually after ever arc cause why not. But before you just hog wild I''d like to ask you how you have enjoyed the progression from the end of the first arc to the ending of this arc.


    Was the character devolpment everything you hoped for?


    Was there some things you think should''ve been more addressed in his personity and attitude?


    Or if you think I missed completly and should be implented?


    I also want to ask about some of the side characters that have devolped alongside Ricky.


    Who is your favorite?


    Who is your least favorite?


    Which Character do you just deserves more time within the spolight?


    Which character do you think just needs to back up cause they are always there?


    Then mirroing the Q&A from last time, which of these subjects just needs more improvement:


    Story


    Smut


    System


    Others


    And if you anything else you wanna say then don''t be afraid to just say it bluntly cause I think its important for a author to really be constructive of critism.


    I get there are some aspects of the story that aren''t perfect, far from it, but I''m just trying out new things and if they don''t work, I don''t want to just give up but work towards really heightening the story.


    Lastly, thank you for reading my story and enjoying it!


    Also, Happy Thanksgiving!

 Chapter 114 - 110: The Calm Before The Storm

    Chapter 114: Chapter 110: The Calm Before The Storm


    In the remote depths of the Colorado Rockies, a group of armed figures emerged, their gear adorned with an eclectic array of religious symbols.


    They approached the outskirts of a seemingly abandoned town, their movements tense and anticipatory, prepared for spells to rain down upon them.


    Yet, no attack came.


    Instead, an unsettling silence blanketed the area as their eyes darted to every shadow, searching for signs of life with only the crawling stillness to meet their unsteady gazes.


    It wasn''t long before the realization set in that this would be no battleground, this was a ghost town.


    At the forefront of the group stood a woman wielding a sword that towered into the sky, her face concealed beneath a veil-like covering.


    Her presence was commanding, yet the eerie stillness around them seemed to gnaw at the edges of her resolve.


    "Sister Angela, they have fled." A man clad in a crusader''s uniform announced, his voice steady but edged with unease.


    Sister Angela, standing at the head of the group, tilted her head slightly in acknowledgment, her expression hidden beneath the shadow of her face covering.


    BOOM


    Without warning, a typhoon of raw energy erupted from Sister Angela, engulfing her in a maelstrom of light and fury.


    The ground beneath her seemed to tremble, and the air crackled with the intensity of her unleashed power.


    "FIND ANY TRACE, FIND ME THOSE DIRTY WITCHES!"


    Meanwhile In New York,


    An emergency commission meeting had been called, the room filled with tension and restless murmurs.


    Yet amidst the gravity of the gathering, one mob boss sat back, laughing heartily, as if the entire ordeal were a private joke meant for him alone.


    BAM


    "DAMMIT, LUCKY, THIS ISN''T A F*CKING JOKE!" Carlo bellowed, his voice sharp enough to cut through the tense air.


    He slammed his hands onto the table, the sound reverberating through the room like a thunderclap, his face flushed with fury while Lucky started to laugh even harder in his face.


    Over the past three years, Vinny had tragically passed away from a sudden heart attack, leaving Carlo to step into his shoes as the new head of what was now known as the Gambino family.


    "I mean, come on, how can you expect me not to laugh at these ridiculous accusations?" Lucky said with a casual shrug, the strands of white hair speckled on his otherwise black hair catching the dim light as he leaned back, unfazed by the tension in the room.


    "Are we really supposed to believe that Slick; your son, the same reckless fool we all know, somehow landed a cardinal position without a shred of help from you?" Joe asked, his tone dripping with mockery.


    Though a smile stretched across his face, the veins bulging along his neck betrayed the simmering anger beneath.


    Lucky shrugged again, his expression unreadable, as if Joe''s words were nothing more than an amusing aside.


    "Beats me how the kid pulled it off, but let''s focus on what really matters," Lucky snickered, leaning back in his chair with an air of ease.


    His sharp gaze swept over the room, landing on the most ruthless figures in New York as if daring them to challenge him.


    "Now that being a mutant has been christened by God, Slick''s ban-"


    "Absolutely not! ABSOLUTELY NOT!" Carlo roared, his face twisted with fury as his hatred for Lucky surged to new heights the moment Ricky''s name was spoken, as if the mere mention of it was a trigger that sent him spiraling.


    Carlo, once one of this timeline who was supposed to be the most influential and respected bosses in the city, had been reduced to little more than a punchline, his reputation flapping in the wind due to a butterfly, that was Ricky.


    Now, he was a man who controlled the least amount of territory, still the butt of every joke in Manhattan, all because of that damn kid.


    "C''mon, Lucky, we all know you helped the kid, be honest." Tommy sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose in exasperation.


    But Lucky only shook his head, a wry smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he leaned back, refusing to give Tommy, or let alone any of these bosses, the satisfaction.


    "I think all of you are confused about the purpose of this meeting." Lucky finally spoke towards the bosses instead of laughing, his voice calm yet firm as the room fell silent, every pair of eyes now fixed on him.


    "I''m not asking for your permission to see my son again." Lucky continued, his gaze sweeping over the table, the weight of his words settling in.


    "I''m just telling you that he''s coming home."


    Lucky raised his eyes to meet theirs, unfazed by the dangerous glares aimed his way as the room seemed to grow colder, the tension palpable.


    "Watch yourself Lucky-" Tommy warned Lucky only to receive a sneer.


    "It''s funny you say that cause I have, I''ve let this constant disrespect go on and watch it happen for the last three years." Lucky said, his tone measure, holding up his hand to each and everyone of these bosses.


    "I''ve been a good scout and followed the rules I set for myself, for the commission, because I believed that respect isn''t given in this world, it''s f*cking earned. And you can''t expect respect from others if you can''t even respect the words flowing from your own mouth." Lucky voice commanded their attention, speaking over any thoughts as his words trailed solely in this room.


    "I really believed that." Lucky emphasized, showing how much that sentiment meant for him until his hand gripped his cane, almost shaking from the rage built within his heart.


    "But that respect, that respect I carried for this commission and every single one of you, is gone." Lucky continued, his voice growing colder, more detached yet it started raising.


    "I look at all of you with a hollow gaze, and know that you have no right to judge me, not now, not after you called that meeting to banish my son three years ago, WITHOUT ME!" Lucky''s voice grew louder with each word, each syllable booming through the room until he was shouting, his fury impossible to ignore.


    "This ain''t reconciliation, this wasn''t to make peace, this was to get even." Lucky stood up, adjusting his suit while gazing at all the bosses staring at him with deadly gazes.


    "Per the commission rules, Ricky Luciano''s banishment is effectively released and to any who object, you can go f*ck yourself." Lucky then turned his back, striding out of the room as his dress shoes clicked out into the hallway.


    "You know what this means, Lucky, right?" Profaci asked, fiddling with his pinky ring as he glanced up at the departing figure.


    "All too well," Lucky replied, strolling out of the room, fully aware that all bridges of peace had now been reduced to nothing more than smoldering ashes.


    The room fell into a thick, uncomfortable silence, the weight of Lucky''s words hanging heavily in the air.


    Every person in that room understood the gravity of the statement, Ricky was coming, whether they wanted him to or not.


    No one dared speak, the tension palpable as they absorbed the reality of what was about to unfold.


    "Well, if I''m being honest, Lucky''s right in saying that the kid has no reason to be banished anymore." Stefano yawned, quite bored with this meeting as he received hateful stares from everyone.


    BAM


    "HE''S A FREAK-" Carla slammed his hand onto the table, interjecting into the nonchalant attitude of Stefano.


    "But that''s just your opinion," Profaci said dismissively, his fingers idly twisting his pinky ring.


    "Just like it''s my opinion to call a midget tall." Profaci rolled his eyes at Carlo, who glared back at him with a seething intensity, the hatred clear in his gaze.


    "Listen up, fellas, Slick doesn''t violate any measure put in place anymore, so I propose his banishment be lifted on the grounds of our Lord Almighty," Profaci said with a plain attitude, meeting the steady gazes of all the bosses in the room.


    The very reason they had been able to banish Ricky in the first place was because mutants were seen as devils, and, in the name of God, they had expelled him.


    But now, those same words had come back to bite them, and they found themselves trapped by the very logic they had once used to justify his exile.


    "Then I guess this meeting is adjourned." Stefano said, standing up and adjusting his suit and despite his words, everyone remained seated as he turned and walked away.


    The stares of the other families were palpable, intense, almost suffocating, as they slowly began to trickle out of the room one by one.


    Yet, Lucky was the first to step outside the building, his presence a quiet defiance against the weight of the lingering glares.


    A car was waiting for him, with Frank standing by the door, his hairline visibly receded from the strain of the years.


    Frank looked up as Lucky approached, his eyes filled with a mixture of anticipation and respect.


    "How did it go?" Frank asked, opening the door for Lucky.


    Lucky sighed deeply, rubbing his eyes as exhaustion weighed on him as two days without sleep taking its toll.


    Lucky slid into the car, his body sinking into the seat, clearly worn down from the battle he''d just fought.


    "New York''s about to be plunged into chaos any day now," Lucky revealed, his voice low and grim.


    "It''s almost confirmed at this point." Lucky revealed to Frank who slid into the car on the other side and sat back, his face hardening as the weight of Lucky''s words settled between them.


    "He really made a big stir," Frank laughed, and Lucky chuckled along.


    "I don''t think Slick''s ever entered into any situation with a peaceful mindset," Lucky replied, his grin a mix of amusement and resignation.


    "...." They sat in the car in silence, with Lucky already knowing what Frank was going to say next, but he waited, letting the big man start the conversation.


    "D-Do you-..............do you think he''ll really give Eddy a-"


    "I do," Lucky said with a heavy sigh, his eyes fixed on the ceiling.


    "I think it''s gonna be the first thing he does when he comes back." Lucky paused, a flicker of doubt crossing his face.


    Deep down, he hoped Ricky had grown, that he''d learned something over the past three years, but he couldn''t shake the fear that it was simply the same reckless kid coming back instead of the grown man he''d dream of.


    "Honestly, I thought he was all talk back then," Frank said with a warm smile, his gaze drifting to the ground.


    "But now, I''m really glad he went to such lengths to give Eddy the funeral he always deserved." Frank couldn''t help but look down with a warm appreciation, feeling that his shattered existence was slowly molding together with Eddy possibly getting the send off he always deserved.


    "Round up the boys and double the patrols across our territories. I don''t want them encroaching even a millimeter on what''s ours," Lucky said firmly as they pulled up as his tone was polite but resolute, and Frank gave a sharp nod, fully understanding the weight of the order.


    "About Jake-"


    "That''s Meyer''s and Slick''s problem. Focus on the objective," Lucky said plainly and Frank nodded in understanding as the car smoothly pulled away.


    With his cane tapping rhythmically against the floor, Lucky made his way into the house, ascending the stairs with deliberate steps.


    Reaching the office, he pushed open the door to reveal his desk, and perched on a stand beside it was a particular crow, its sharp eyes glinting in the dim light.


    "We''re going to war. The other families aren''t relenting on his exile, but they''ll make a move soon," Lucky informed the crow, his voice calm yet weighted and the bird remained silent, its unblinking gaze fixed on him, as if absorbing every word.


    From the shadows, the bird spread its wings and swooped gracefully onto the desk, revealing itself as Chester.


    With an almost human precision, the crow grasped a pen in its talons, his dark eyes sharp with purpose.


    Lucky stood silently, watching the scene unfold, still grappling with the surreal reality of how vital this enigmatic creature had become to their organization''s operations.


    Over the past three years, Chester hadn''t simply remained idle; instead, he had taken to assisting Lucky in his various pursuits, perhaps as a means to stave off his own boredom when law curriculum couldn''t do the trick.


    At first, it was difficult for Lucky to come to terms with the fact that a crow possessed such sentience, but his practical nature helped him adapt quickly.


    The bird''s sharp intellect and uncanny knack for strategy soon made him an indispensable ally.


    Once Lucky realized just how intellectually capable Chester truly was, their conversations began to extend beyond simple matters of strategy to more personal, even familial, topics.


    Trust was a rare commodity in Lucky''s world, in any mobster''s world, and finding someone he could truly confide in was nearly impossible.


    Yet, Chester had naturally grown into that role, becoming not just an advisor but a confidant, a rare source of counsel in a life filled with betrayal and secrecy.


    Chester had become more than just an anomaly in Lucky''s life; he had grown into someone Lucky genuinely depended on for advice in certain predicaments.


    The crow''s sharp insights and calm demeanor often provided clarity where others couldn''t, solidifying his role as an unexpected yet invaluable confidant.


    ''How long do you expect we have until they take the initiative, instead of just waiting for a move from our operations?'' Chester wrote in perfect English, neatly pushing the paper toward Lucky as the mobster rubbed his chin thoughtfully, his mind racing as he considered the growing tension.


    "I''d say, three weeks, factoring in the stupid thing Slick''s gonna do when he comes back," Lucky shrugged and Chester nodded, then scribbled something down on the paper with a swift motion, his pen gliding smoothly across the surface.


    ''What about Dewey and his backer?''


    "Dewey pulled out after that fiasco three years ago, but the government is just foaming for an excuse to interfere here." Lucky sighed, rocking his chair back and forth while Chester paused, his head tilted slightly as he pondered the situation, the weight of the moment settling in the room.


    ''What if they couldn''t?'' Chester wrote, pushing the paper toward Lucky.


    Lucky raised an eyebrow at this weird thing to say until he slowly started to catch on, the wheels turning in his mind before realization slowly dawned on him. A plan was beginning to form, one that could shift the balance in their favor.


    "Wait Chester, when is the statute of limitations cause couldn''t that whole thing be counted as criminal?" Lucky asked Chester, knowing about his proficiency in the law as Chester pondered but shook his head, writing something down.


    ''It could not be considered criminal. It would only be able to be represented as civil and that limitation is five years.'' Chester informed Lucky who gazed down at the scribbling, tapping the desk with a wide smile.


    "Huh, well how bout that."


    Meanwhile on the boat,


    "So you want to sue the government?" Barko asked Ricky, the question hanging in the air as they continued their casual conversation, all while playing a game of Go Fish.


    "More like I''m going to try and embarrass them, force those grubby tax collectors'' hands before they can stop the takeover before it even starts." Ricky replied, casually plucking a six from Alexander''s furry paws, causing Alexander''s face to flush with anger.


    "Truly pitiful." Garfield lounged on the table, eyeing the scene with a shake of the head at Alexander''s dreadful sense of strategy in Go Fish, silently wondering if the author would ever give him a break.


    "I mean, they won''t expect it. Cause what they know about me, they probably think I''m just gonna come back swinging, tearing sh*t up without a plan. Then, I''ll suddenly show up on Capitol Hill, kneecap them, and beat the living crap out of them until they beg for mercy." Ricky laughed, already picturing himself standing over the sniveling politicians.


    "That does make sense. If a full-blown war takes place, they''ll surely intervene. And while they might not be able to stop you, it would be hard to operate once they paint you as America''s number one enemy to the people you profit from." Chores agreed with Ricky from the side, sighing as Asterion took his Jack of Diamonds.


    "Interesting, I''ve never heard of this ''New York'' before. Is it a new country?" Asterion asked, looking at Ricky, who nodded in response.


    "Well, not really. We''re heading to America and New York''s just a city, but don''t sweat it since you''ll figure all of that out as time goes on." Ricky explained, giving Asterion a thumbs up.


    Asterion smiled and nodded before he took three cards from three different people, leaving Alexander in shock.


    "By the grace of Hestia, how could you possibly know?" Alexander asked, turning to Asterion, who paused for a moment in thought.


    "Intuition?" Asterion replied with a shrug, as the gerbil pouted beside him.


    "I''m bored," Garfield said, flicking his tail lazily as he stared at Ricky, then nudged him with a paw.


    "Give me food." Garfield demanded, starting to annoy Ricky, who shot a glance at the cat.


    "You want to go for a swim?" Ricky asked, purposely misinterpreting Garfield''s words as the cat''s fur bristled instantly, his eyes narrowing in suspicion.


    "N-No I-"


    "Well, alright, if you say so." Ricky grinned, grabbing Garfield, who immediately started thrashing and spasming in his grip.


    "W-WAIT I-"


    "Want to go for a swim? Got it." Ricky smirked, cutting Garfield off just as he was about to stand up.


    "I-I''M SORRY!" Garfield yelped out, Ricky snickering while putting Garfield in his lap, tapping his head lightly.


    "Now, that wasn''t so hard, was it?" Ricky asked with a sly grin, watching Garfield seethe hatefully in his lap but not daring to show it.


    "Relax, Garfield, I''ll feed you when we have lunch," Ricky added, patting Garfield''s head. The cat looked up at his owner, then shot a glare at the reader.


    "This is animal abuse." Garfiled muttered, resting his chin on Ricky''s knee while pouting slightly and gazing at the reader.


    "This is all your fault." Garfield shifted the blame onto the reader, feeling slightly hateful and knowing that something would be thrown at him if he insulted the author.


    "I have a question," Barko raised a paw, while Alexander teetered on the verge of tears as Asterion casually took another one of his cards.


    "Will the other families really just sit back and do nothing while you pursue this case?" Barko inquired. Ricky shrugged in response, and everyone sighed as Asterion claimed victory.


    "Nah, I mean, I wouldn''t." Ricky adjusted his cards, rearranging and pulling them back as Asterion quietly waited for Ricky''s turn to end.


    "They''ll probably start preparing or attacking, but that won''t happen for another two weeks, which gives us more than enough time to get ready." Ricky smirked in his seat, just as an elderly man entered the cabin.


    "It has been prepared." The old elder, Cedric Hawke, gestured to Ricky who suddenly shot up.


    "Garfield will take my place," Ricky said, handing his cards to his fat cat. Garfield scrunched his brows at the author''s description of him but quieted down, knowing he wasn''t in control, merely sentient.


    "Sentient, my hairball," Garfield muttered under his breath, scratching his belly in Ricky''s seat.


    "Win, and I''ll give you fourth''s for dinner." Ricky said, trying to watch the cat''s weight but willing to make the sacrifice as Garfield''s ears perked up.


    "I will crush you all," Garfield declared, his gaze locking onto each of them while sitting up straighter, his claws shot out from his paws as the aura of the Go-Fish master was unleashed.


    Following Cedric, Ricky noticed the clear scowl on his face and rolled his eyes, but just as he did, Cedric turned around, catching him in the act.


    "I saw that." Cedric pointed at Ricky who sighed, pinching his nose.


    "Cedric, can we just not do this-"


    "I just don''t understand! How is it that Zatanna cares more for you than her Uncle Cedric?" Cedric yelled at Ricky, his voice laced with anger. Ricky, on the other hand, couldn''t stand dealing with the council.


    It wasn''t that he was annoyed at their usual hatred since that didn''t bother him, he was used to that, but the fact that all of them vied for Zatanna''s affection constantly.


    But despite all their efforts, Ricky would swoop in out of the blue and effortlessly claim all of it without even lifting a finger or going out of his way which was the real thorn in Cedric''s side.


    SIGH


    "You''re a f*cking child." Ricky, surprised that he was the one saying this, pushed past Cedric who scoffed.


    "Well you''re a-..........jerk!" Cedric couldn''t think of anything and yelled while Ricky gave him a middle finger when he was wasn''t looking.


    "Dammit, I should''ve called him a manwhore," Cedric cursed, finally finding the words as he caught up to them after already leaving.


    Pushing open the double doors, he was immediately greeted by a flurry of runes and a scattered crowd of witches and warlocks filling the room.


    "Hey beautiful-"


    "Not talking to you." Agatha muttered, turning away as she held Zatanna, who reached out toward him.


    "Papa, papa!" Zatanna chuckled madly, looking towards Ricky as the elder glared at him.


    "Honey, we''re mad at daddy-"


    "NOOOOOOOOOO, I WANT MY PAPA!" Zatanna cried, nearly breaking free from her mother''s grasp as Agatha sighed, shooting a glare at Ricky as she reluctantly held her daughter out to him.


    "Hey, pumpkin." Ricky smiled as he scooped the girl into his arms and Zatanna giggled, eagerly nestling into his embrace, her small hands wrapping around him tightly.


    "Is this a good place for Zatanna, I mean, it''s a necromancy ritual?" Ricky asked, glancing around as it felt strange for him to be the one raising concerns, but the unease gnawed at him.


    During the ship''s journey, the voyage served as little more than a cover, an excuse to perform the necromancy ritual over international waters while transporting their belongings.


    Those words from Profaci three years ago always echoed in Ricky''s mind, a constant reminder of his limitations.


    It was a harsh truth: he couldn''t always protect the people he cared about, not when it mattered most.


    Even when he was there, there were moments when he couldn''t be and that realization gnawed at him, pushing him to search for alternatives.


    It was during that search for answers that he had stumbled upon Lilith, and from her, he acquired the skill.


    Though it was cruel, Ricky didn''t care about any sorts of morals and even if he had to rip apart an entire country, he wouldn''t even blink.


    It was why Ricky had started getting familiar with necromancy for the sole purpose of forming a secret army, one that would silently protect his loved ones who couldn''t entirely protect themselves.


    "Eh." Agatha shrugged off his concerns, cradling Johnny in her arms as he happily sucked on his binky.


    "Papa, look, look!" Zatanna called, eager for Ricky''s attention as she held out her hand as tiny fireworks sparked to life from her palm, and Ricky''s eyes widened in surprise.


    "Cool, now check this out." Ricky said, grinning as he held out his palm for Zatanna who bounced excitedly in his arms, her eyes wide with anticipation, and suddenly, a fireball sparked to life from his hand.


    The bright light illuminated the space beneath the ship, the magic''s density thick and oppressive, enough to make weaker practitioners of magic feel its weight as Zatanna marveled at the display, her gaze fixed on the swirling flames.


    "Woah~" Zatanna reached out eagerly, her small fingers almost brushing the fireball.


    Ricky, with a playful smirk, closed his fist around the magic, snuffing it out instantly, before flicking her forehead gently.


    "Ow~" Zatanna pouted, rubbing her forehead dramatically as Ricky couldn''t help but laugh at her expression, and soon enough, Zatanna joined in, her giggle infectious as they both laughed together.


    "Alright, so I just put my magic into it and chant an inscription, right?" Ricky asked as the magicians exchanged frowns at his simplified explanation but nodded in agreement.


    "Anyone want to hold Zatanna-"


    "ME!" All of the elders rushed forward, but Zatanna puffed out her cheeks, gripping Ricky''s shirt tightly.


    "No, don''t wanna~" Zatanna whined, giving Ricky her best puppy eyes, but he only laughed at her attempt.


    "What do you think your pops is, a chump?" Ricky teased, then handed Zatanna over to one of the elders, Seraphina Wren, before striding up to the ritual circle.


    On a stone slab, slick with rotted blood, lay a fully intact skeleton, its bones bare and devoid of flesh, exhumed from the graveyard.


    Ricky stretched out his hand, instantly feeling the ritual''s pull as the death magic began to seep into the ancient runes, which darkened to a pitch black hue, absorbing his mana in an unrelenting vacuum.


    Ricky was unaware of how much the ritual truly required and instead of pacing himself, he abandoned caution and poured all of his magic into the ritual.


    The air thickened around him, the surrounding atmosphere coiling into a suffocating black mass as the energy surged.


    "Chant your words, like arise!" Cedric shouted from the side, his voice barely audible over the increasing tremors as the boat began to shake violently and Ricky shot him a weird look.


    "That sounds gay-"


    "GOD DAMMIT RICKY SAY SOMETHING!" Agatha lashed out from the side, holding Johnny tight as Ricky little clicked his tongue.


    "Fine, I don''t know. Get the f*ck up!"Ricky yelled at the skeleton, his voice full of frustration at why he even needed to chant any words at all.


    But the moment he did, the skeleton gasped, and as it did, the black mass surrounding it was drawn in, consumed by its very being.


    DING


    [New Section Unlocked]


    [Due to this innate skill classified under Eldritch Abominations, Necromancy summoning is now registered within the system. A new ''Servants'' tab has been established to organize the beings bound to the user, regardless of their rank.]


    DING


    (Epic Undead) Wraith Knight: Elite skeletal warriors with exceptional combat skills and often tasked with special missions or personal protection. Most often able to wield sentience with their master''s permission.


    The black mass slowly seeped from its bones, coating its form like a second layer of armor as a terrifying screech echoed from its hollow frame, reverberating through the air.


    "Cool~" Ricky and Zatanna said in unison, while the other witches and warlocks stood frozen, their faces pale with terror.


    These particular witches and warlocks practiced the dark arts of necromancy, but never had they dared, or succeeded, in summoning such a high-ranking undead.


    The sheer power radiating from the creature was enough to send a chill down even their seasoned spines.


    One particular witch''s pupils contracted violently, her eyes becoming hollow gateways as she stared at the scene unfolding before her as the sight was enough to make her take another hesitant step backward.


    "Master, please bestow this servant with a name." The skeleton''s scratchy voice rang out, its towering form looming over Ricky by a solid foot.


    "You can talk, that''s even cooler." Ricky sounded out, waving his head above the black flames hovering around this Wraith Knight.


    "Do you like, have any preference or should I just spitball one off the top of my head?" Ricky asked, rubbing the back of his neck since he was blanking right now.


    "I merely heed your commands, master." The undead servant bowed his head lower, showing its undying loyalty first hand.


    "Uh, alright, anyone want to take a shot at this?" Ricky asked, a bit stumped, looking around. Zatanna eagerly raised her little hand, her eyes sparkling with excitement.


    "Boney, Boney!" Zatanna shouted, her voice full of enthusiasm as Ricky pointed at her with a grin, as if she had just made the perfect guess, and nodded in approval.


    "Alright, you heard my pumpkin, you''re Boney now." Ricky snapped his fingers, and Boney, ever so obedient, carved the name into its being with a fluid, eerie motion.


    DING


    (Epic Undead) Boney The Wraith Knight: Elite skeletal warriors with exceptional combat skills and often tasked with special missions or personal protection.


    "I am grateful for such a noble name, Master. Boney shall etch that name into the minds of all those who dare stand in your way." Boney''s words sent a chill through the room, and the onlookers grew pale as Ricky continued to absentmindedly poke at the black mass, now swirling ominously around Boney with even more fervor.


    "So, how do you eat, Boney?" Ricky crouched down to face the kneeling Wraith Knight, who met his gaze with hollow eyes, flickering briefly with a spark of black fire.


    "I consume the soul''s of your enemies, master."


    "Uh huh." Ricky nodded his head, a little glad that Boney was on his side.


    "Anything else?"


    "To maintain my form, I consume the mana within the air. But to gain more strength for my master, I consume souls," Boney explained, his voice carrying an eerie resonance as Ricky nodded thoughtfully, a sudden idea flashing in his mind.


    "Do you, like, remember who you were?"


    "I am Boney." Boney simply stated, unable to process anything before it as he was simply Boney.


    "Right, right." Ricky nodded, standing up along with Boney who had to lower his head a little.


    Ricky had already expended a third of his total mana to conjure this beast before him, and now a curious thought crossed his mind and wondered if he could summon another one like Boney.


    "Hey, baby, how many more skeletons do we have left?" Ricky asked, glancing over at Agatha, who responded with nothing but a cold, silent treatment.


    "Cedric, how many-OH COME ON!" Ricky turned to Cedric, who, too, was giving him the silent treatment, clearly upset for not being chosen to hold Zatanna.


    SIGH


    "Someone just get me the next f*cking skeleton."


    20 minutes later,


    DING


    (Common Servant) 40 x Skeleton Soldier: Basic rank and file of the skeletal army, performing standard combat roles and carrying out the general will of their superiors.


    "Boom, got it. Your name is Chuck now." Ricky clapped his hands in the air, finally settling on a name for the particular undead before him.


    (Epic Servant) Chuck The Wraith Mage: Elite skeletal mage with exceptional magical knowledge and aptitude in the dark arts.


    "What up, Chuck." Ricky waved at the other creation in his amalgamations, as Chuck, the Wraith Mage, elegantly bowed toward his master.


    "Greetings, Master. I am pleased to meet you and eternally serve at your side." Chuck calmly spoke, his tone far more dignified than Boney''s, who was silently assessing whether he could slaughter the people around him or not.


    "Can any of you talk?" Ricky peeked behind Chuck, eyeing the other eerie skeletons standing motionless around him.


    CHATTER


    The skeletons suddenly began clacking their bony jaws together, producing a series of eerie, rattling sounds as Ricky quickly realized they couldn''t speak like Chuck or Boney.


    "Ricky, that''s all the skeletons we managed to acquire from Dracula''s graveyards." Agatha stood up, scooping Zatanna into her arms as she swayed toward the door, her movements graceful yet purposeful.


    The other witches and warlocks filed out, leaving Ricky alone with his undead army and he stood there, his eyes scanning the row of skeletons, each of them staring back at him with hollow, lifeless gazes.


    "Arlight, so here''s why I summoned you-"


    Ricky began outlining their purpose, his voice steady and commanding as the undead stood in eerie silence, their skeletal forms frozen in attention.


    They understood the weight of his words, without fulfilling the task ahead, their existence would hold no meaning.


    They were bound to him, their lives, if they could be called lives, wholly dependent on his instructions.


    "Any questions?" Ricky asked, glancing around as the room remained silent, every skeleton seated criss-cross apple sauced on the floor, their hollow eyes fixed on him with an almost childlike obedience.


    "There are no wrong questions," Ricky said again, scanning the room as his gaze landed on Boney, who slowly raised a skeletal hand, the black miasma swirling faintly around his form.


    "Yes Boney."


    "When will we be allowed to consume the souls of your enemies, Master?" Boney asked, his skeletal hand rubbing the hollow space where a stomach would be.


    "Must you pester our master with such idiocy?" Chuck scoffed, his tone dripping with disdain as his hollow gaze fixed on Boney.


    "Read the context of his glorious words. Clearly, we will send all those pests to damnation once we reach the shores of this ''New York.''" Chuck proclaimed, the other skeletons around him nodding since that did make sense.


    ''Man, I totally feel like some villain in a story right now?'' Ricky thought, scratching his head since from every fairy tale he''d ever seen or read, only the bad guys were the ones commanding undead armies.


    ''Eh, whatever.'' Ricky thought, shrugging it off as there was no point wasting time on such a complicated question that would inevitably lead to a shaky yes anyway.


    "Listen, gang, we''re not going to kill them all just yet." Ricky clarified, raising a hand to calm the eager undead.


    "But after I get back from the trial, we might be taking out a small portion." Ricky then added, knowing that it would appease them only for Chuck to tilt his hollow gaze toward his master, the flicker of black fire in his eyes reflecting curiosity and restrained eagerness.


    "Now I''m confused." Chuck admitted, his tone calm yet laced with subtle confusion.


    "I thought our purpose was to reach the shores of this land, conquer it in your name, and consume the souls of all who dare oppose us." Chuck glanced around at his fellow undead for affirmation, their silent, eerie stances suggesting agreement.


    "That''s what I thought!" Boney gestured, the other skeleton''s clanking their jaws together as Ricky facepalmed.


    SIGH


    "No I-"


    SIGH


    "Alright everyone, listen again-"


    Ricky sighed, realizing he needed to clarify things for his undead entourage. He paced in front of them, gesturing animatedly as he explained.


    The group of undead nodded in unison, their dark energy simmering with anticipation at his every word.


    Even Chuck gave a slight bow, seemingly satisfied with the revised plan, while Boney rubbed his bony head, still looking around.


    "Ah, I understand."


    "I don''t."


    "Whatever." Ricky said with a dismissive wave of his hand.


    "The main thing is to sit tight and keep yourselves busy until we hit New York. Chat, plot, do whatever you undead types do." Ricky gave his final words and without waiting for a response, he turned on his heel and headed for the exit.


    Leaving the underdeck steeped in an eerie silence as the undead exchanged quiet glances, their dark energy pulsing faintly in the dim light.


    "How do we ''chat amongst ourselves''?" Boney asked, literally born for the sole purpose of consuming souls.


    "I do not know as of now, but I will find out," Chuck replied, his hollow voice carrying a strange depth.


    The skeleton soldiers, meanwhile, remained perfectly still, their bony forms frozen in place as if awaiting an order that would never come.


    Meanwhile In Agatha''s Room,


    Compared to the others, her position as the elder of the council granted her privileges far beyond those of an ordinary witch.


    With an air of authority, she casually strolled over to the bed within her own private room, her every movement embodying the weight of her rank.


    Knock


    Knock


    "Go away, Ricky." Agatha huffed, her voice tinged with frustration as Ricky hesitated, then slowly opened the door, peeking through with a curious glance.


    "No?" Ricky asked, his voice unsure. He stood there for a moment, torn between speaking to her or letting her stew in silence.


    Since he had experience with dealing with woman, he wasn''t exactly an expert on women, and frankly, who was?


    Women were creatures of paradox; unbelievably complex yet so simple in their contradictions that the very attempt to define them left any man feeling helpless, unable to pinpoint where the real issue lay.


    "Where is-"


    "Oh, your daughter and son? Well, if you actually cared to be in their lives, you''d know they''re sleep training, which is why they''re not here." Agatha rolled over on the bed, clearly pouting as Ricky quietly shut the door behind him.


    "Is this about Lilith-"


    "You mean that undead whore? No, it''s not," Agatha interrupted Ricky, her tone sharp as he scratched his head.


    Ricky found himself in a strange predicament since Agatha had always stated that she didn''t seem to care much about his whims, as long as he remained a constant in Zatanna and John''s lives.


    In fact, she made it painfully clear that their connection was purely physical, with no emotional strings attached.


    But time, as it often does, had a way of complicating things and what began as a simple, physical relationship slowly began to shift.


    Agatha couldn''t help but find herself emotionally attached to the father of her children, despite her best efforts to keep things detached.


    "Agatha, look at me." Ricky said, hopping onto the bed and gently nudging her back but she only buried her head deeper into the pillow, ignoring him.


    "No."


    Sigh


    "Listen, I''m sorry-"


    Sniff


    "No, you''re not, you-...........you manwhore." Agatha started to sniffle as Ricky shrugged slightly at this.


    "I mean-"


    Bam


    "Ow!" Ricky exaggerated a pained yelp, shielding his head as Agatha began furiously whacking him with her pillow.


    "YOU STUPID MANWHORE!" Agatha yelled, hitting Ricky with her pillow as he let her vent the frustration.


    ''Wait, what day is it-''


    GASP


    "YOU DID NOT JUST LOOK OVER AT THAT CALENDAR, YOU DID NOT!" Agatha yelled at Ricky, who was immediately caught in the act.


    Even though it was just a subtle movement of his head, his intentions were crystal clear.


    "Okay, okay-"


    BAM


    Suddenly, in the spur of the moment, Agatha threw a real left hook, catching Ricky off guard as she socked him right in the jaw.


    Ricky, seeing her fist swing at him, simply let it happen as he stumbled back, rubbing his jaw, while she immediately covered her mouth, her eyes wide with regret.


    "Darling?!" Agatha gasped, her eyes widening in shock at her own actions.


    She quickly crawled to the side of the bed, her hands hovering over Ricky, who was still holding his cheek with a slight bruise forming.


    Ricky could''ve easily dodged the punch, but for some reason, he didn''t.


    He figured it was only fair since after all, he was constantly out sleeping with other women, and in his mind, he deserved a little bit of the consequences.


    As Agatha''s fist came toward him, he just braced himself, accepting the blow without flinching.


    "Wow, you really pack a punch," Ricky joked, his voice light despite the sting in his cheek.


    Agatha, her breath shaky, let out a sigh of relief as she gently rubbed his cheek, her fingers lingering with a trace of regret.


    The unease in her stomach tightened, but she couldn''t quite place why; was it guilt, or something else entirely?


    "I-I''m sorry, I don''t know what''s come over me," Agatha stammered, her hands trembling as she helped Ricky back onto the bed.


    She touched his cheek, her magic flowing to heal the small mark that had already faded, leaving his skin smooth once more.


    "Just talk to me." Ricky made it simply, grabbing her hand and chaining her to this moment as she let out a long drawn out sigh.


    "It doesn''t-......it shouldn''t bother me, but after seeing how Lilith looked at you and how you looked back I was just-"


    "Jealous?" Ricky asked, seeing Agatha face contort into an ugly frown as he raised his hands to stop any punches.


    "No, I''m not jealous-...........I''m not." Agatha was basically convincing herself at this point, her voice growing quieter with every word uttered from her sensual red lips.


    "Alright, you''re not jealous," Ricky said, choosing to agree with her for the moment and Agatha nodded, though there was still a hint of unease in her eyes.


    "Now hold me while we go to sleep." Agatha then turned over, Ricky chuckling while getting into position to spoon her from behind.


    "So-"


    "Don''t even try to push it, Darling," Agatha muttered, her tone soft yet firm. Ricky nodded in response, a small smile tugging at his lips as she snuggled closer.


    Ricky wrapped his arms around her, the warmth of his presence grounding her in the moment, letting that unease slip away.


    Agatha smiled instinctively, the warmth and security Ricky exuded wrapping around her like a comforting embrace.


    In that moment, she felt a sense of peace, as though everything, despite the chaos swirling around them, it felt as if everything would somehow work out like it always did.


    But Agatha knew she was in the wrong.


    Deep down, she understood that Ricky was only playing by the rules she herself had set, yet those rules were beginning to wear away at her usual confidence.


    Even when she acted like a total b*tch, Ricky still held her with such sincerity, his unwavering care slowly chipping away at the walls she''d built around herself.


    It was disorienting, almost maddening, to be confronted with the kindness she didn''t think she deserved.


    "Good night." Ricky, seeing her slightly tremble, kissed the back of her ear as Agatha leaned even deeper into his embrace.


    "Good night Darling."


    Author''s Note: Saw all the comments and I''ve read them all on my phone but I''m lazy at heart so I''ll just reply over the weekend.

 Chapter 115 - 111: The Prince Has Arrived

    Chapter 115: Chapter 111: The Prince Has Arrived


    2 weeks later,


    In the middle of the day, the ship was unloading at one of the docks under the Luciano family''s control as Chores approached Agatha with the bustle of activity continuing around them.


    "Mistress Agatha, have you seen Slick? He''s practically vanished," Chores asked, his voice tinged with concern as Agatha focused intently on checking her list once, checking it twice.


    "He said something vague, like ''I have to say hello to an old friend,'' and then just took off," Agatha replied, turning to Chores, who sighed and shook his head in frustration.


    "What is so important that he just had to up and leave."


    Upon arriving in New York, it wasn''t his father he met first, nor his string of lovers, or even his friends.


    It was a pair of graves, more specifically, Rocco''s and Eddy''s.


    Eddy technically wasn''t in the grave; his resting place was a cenotaph, a memorial without remains.


    Frank hadn''t been allowed to bury Eddy''s ashes in the plot, but he was permitted to give him this much, a marker to honor the little brother which was now being honored by Ricky.


    Laying flowers on the gravestones, Ricky couldn''t shake the feeling that he had no right to mourn, no right to consider himself a good friend, because he knew he wasn''t.


    Even in death, he hadn''t grown out of his selfishness, and now, standing here, he felt the weight of it more than ever.


    In some way, their deaths were on his hands as he could never erase that truth, no matter how much time passed.


    Ricky knew he could''ve taken a different path when he first got the system.


    He could''ve prepared more, planned better, done something, anything, to avoid the outcome that still haunted him.


    Those thoughts echoed relentlessly in his mind, like ghosts that wouldn''t rest as the weight of what he could''ve done, and failed to do, was something he couldn''t escape.


    *Sigh*


    "I was such a sh*tty friend to both of you." Ricky muttered, sinking down in front of the graves, his smile hollow and empty.


    "The worst part is, I wasn''t even a good friend when I realized it. I just went off and f*cked around, making it all about me." Ricky muttered, running a hand through his hair, his eyes shutting as a wave of shame washed over him.


    "Only when I stopped making everything about me did I wish I could go back and be a better friend to both of you," Ricky said softly, his voice laced with regret.


    Ricky had reincarnated, but even in this life, he had become a f*ck-up in his eyes, a failure to the people who mattered most, and that thought made him sick with disappointment in himself.


    Taking a deep breath, Ricky stood silently before the graves, his gaze fixed on the names etched into the stone.


    His shoulders tensed for a moment as he processed the weight of his thoughts and then, almost imperceptibly at first, a small smile crept onto his face, soft, bittersweet, and filled with a quiet resolve.


    "Ha, do you guys remember that time we were being chased by that copper? You both freaked out when you saw me use my powers in action for the first time." Ricky chuckled softly, the sound hollow as it echoed in the stillness.


    His smile was laced with sadness as he stared at the graves, their silence heavier than any reply could have been.


    "Man, the look on your faces when you realized we''d made it across the bridge, priceless. I almost lost it laughing right then and there." Ricky let out a shaky laugh, his hand brushing against his eyes, seemingly wiping any dust from them.


    "And you laughed with me, then at me, and then I punched your shoulders then we''d laugh some more." Ricky said, his voice cracking slightly as the laughter flowed from his stubborn lips.


    Ricky ducked his head, his shoulders tense, before tilting his face up toward the sky, a stupid, bittersweet smile stretching across his lips.


    "Man, I miss you guys so much," Ricky muttered, his voice heavy with emotion as he gazed into the empty air, his expression softening as memories flooded back.


    "I remember back in the day, walking downstairs and finding you two fatasses eating all my food, grinning like idiots." Ricky''s shoulders sagged, the weight of nostalgia pushing down on him while reminiscing about them gesturing him towards the kitchen table.


    "And now whenever I go to a table-"


    *Sniff*


    "It''s just empty man." Ricky let out a hollow chuckle, venting out all his grievances to the names etched in stone.


    "It''s just empty and I get this feeling, the one where I want to give y''all sh*t for eating my food," Ricky said, pointing to himself as he laughed a bit harder.


    "But I can''t cause both of you are gone, you know?" Ricky seemingly asked the etched names, brushing off some moss from Rocco''s.


    "And now all I want to do is f*ck around with both of you and not have to worry about all this BS that I constantly find myself in." Ricky admitted, his voice cracking slightly as he let out a hollow laugh.


    "Ha, my bad, guys. I know y''all are up in heaven telling me to stop being a little b*tch," Ricky said, pinching the bridge of his nose with a shaky laugh as he pushed himself to his feet.


    "Also, sorry for screwing your mom, Rocco, but I''m going to do right by her and your siblings," Ricky admitted, patting the gravestone.


    He knew it was a real scumbag move to sleep with his dead friend''s mom in the first place, and the weight of that guilt wasn''t lost on him.


    "And Eddy, I''m getting you that f*cking funeral, first thing, whether the church wants to or not." Ricky muttered, rubbing the dirt off the gravestone before stepping back a bit.


    The determination in his voice was unwavering, a promise to make things right, even if only in this small way.


    However, his last words were lodged in his throat when he sensed someone approaching from behind as he turned around and found himself face-to-face with a man smiling at him.


    "Pops?" Ricky slicked his hair back, regaining his cool as Lucky laughed heartily, but his smile faltered slightly.


    The flowers in his hand seemed to say it all was a mere coincidence, but the weight of the gesture lingered.


    Lucky smiled softly, walking over to a grave in the distance as he carefully placed the flowers on it, his hand lingering as he gently rubbed the top of the headstone.


    Lucky gestured for Ricky to join him, his expression unreadable, yet there was an unspoken understanding between them.


    "This was Timmy ''Bolt'' Jones." Lucky gazed down at the slightly worn grave, scratching the moss from the side.


    "This was Timmy ''Bolt'' Jones." Lucky''s voice softened as he gazed down at the slightly worn grave, his fingers absentmindedly scratching the moss from the side as his eyes lingered on the name carved into the stone, a flicker of memory passing through him.


    "Bled to death in my arms, and all I could do was assure him that heaven was a real place." Lucky''s face crumbled for a moment, the weight of the memory pressing down on him.


    But just as quickly, he shook it off, taking a deep breath to steady himself before meeting Ricky''s eyes.


    "You know, I left New York after that. Wound up drunk in New Jersey for around eight months before Frank pulled me out of my own despair." Lucky rubbed the top of the grave gently, his fingers brushing away the dirt as he looked back at Ricky, his expression somber yet resolute.


    "Welcome back, son." Lucky pulled Ricky into a tight hug, his grip firm but comforting as he chuckled, returning the embrace and giving his back a light pat.


    "Good to be back, pops." Ricky laughed, the two sharing a rare father-and-son moment, a brief yet meaningful connection that spoke louder than words ever could.


    "Alright, stop being such a queer," Lucky grumbled, giving Ricky a shove, pushing him back.


    Ricky laughed, the irony not lost on him as he was the one who started the hug, yet it was Lucky who was acting all tough.


    "Hey, you''re speaking to an affiliated cardinal of the church," Ricky said with a dramatic flair, spreading his arms wide. Lucky scoffed, shaking his head.


    "Cardinal my ass, more like a jackass." Lucky said with a clear smile only for it to falter for a second, realizing that his playful insult didn''t really hit the way he thought it would.


    "To think, Lucky Luciano is losing his touch." Ricky elbowed Lucky, who rolled his eyes, knowing it wasn''t that great, but he put his arm around Ricky''s shoulder as they walked away.


    "Come on, fill me in on what life was like overseas since I know you stopped in Sicily." Lucky chuckled at this, and Ricky suddenly remembered something.


    "How''s Rotolo?" Ricky suddenly asked, and Lucky laughed, gesturing to his suit.


    "He''s home," Lucky said, genuinely thanking Ricky in his own way, as the latter smiled.


    "Now tell me what you''ve been up to, I cleared the whole day to tell me how much you got your ass kicked." Lucky patted his chest, Ricky laughing since, in a way, he was right.


    "Well, it''s a long story." Ricky smiled only for Lucky to gesture around him, the area completely void of a single soul.


    "Well, I got plenty of time." Lucky announced, knowing that there wasn''t anything more he wanted to do in that moment that caught up with Ricky.


    "Alright, it really all started after I left-"


    Ricky began recounting the whirlwind of events he''d endured, painting a vivid picture for Lucky.


    He spoke of the relentless hunt for vampires, the harrowing battle that forced him to kill Dracula himself, and the fateful clash that led him to align with the Van Helsings.


    Ricky''s story unfolded further, touching on the war that ensued and the allies he''d forged through blood and fire along the way, including the women.


    2 hours later,


    *Smack*


    *Smack*


    "Ow, ow, stop that." Ricky said in an annoyed tone, shielding his head with his arms from Lucky''s punches.


    Lucky''s initial happiness had quickly soured the moment he learned he had two more grandchildren.


    "WHY CAN''T YOU F*CKING PULL OUT LIKE THE REST OF US!" Lucky yelled, his voice echoing as a vein throbbed prominently on his forehead, his fury radiating with every word.


    "BECAUSE IT FEELS BETTER-"


    *SMACK*


    "DAMMIT, YOU LITTLE SH*T! COME BACK HERE!" Lucky roared, hobbling after Ricky with a noticeable limp who suddenly bolted away.


    Ricky darted through the graveyard, his laughter echoing among the tombstones as he effortlessly evaded the older man''s pursuit.


    "STAND STILL SO I CAN BEAT THE NONSENSE OUT OF YOU!"


    10 minutes later,


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    *Huff*


    "When did you get so fast?" Lucky panted, collapsing onto a bench beside Ricky as he struggled to catch his breath.


    "It''s these tonics the witches make." Ricky explained, pulling up his shirt to flex his bicep.


    "They heighten your body during the growth period. I probably wouldn''t have been able to kill Dracula without them." Ricky shamelessly flexed, using the tonics as an excuse to show off his muscles.


    Lucky only rolled his eyes at the display, but Ricky''s triumphant grin seemed to wipe away his annoyance.


    "Well, now that I think about it, having them under our ranks doesn''t sound so bad," Lucky admitted, leaning back and resting an arm on the bench as his casual posture was betrayed by the sharp, serious look in his eyes as he turned to Ricky.


    "But are you sure you can control them?" Lucky asked, his tone firm as his eyes narrowed.


    "You know as well as I do, you''ve got to be stronger in some way than your underlings. It''s like the first thing I ever taught you." Lucky said with a frown, clearly underestimating Ricky as the latter chuckled, the sound low and confident, already relishing the moment he''d make his pops eat his skepticism.


    "Trust me, check this out," Ricky said with a sly grin and upon rising to his feet, he casually brushed the lint off his sleeves before extending his hand, confidence radiating from his every movement.


    "What are you doing-"


    *WHOOSH*


    The Ebony Blade suddenly boomeranged into Ricky''s hand from the ship, the air around them whipping violently as the force sent Lucky''s fedora flying off his head.


    Lucky flinched, his eyes wide, as Ricky caught the blade effortlessly, his grin widening in response to Lucky''s stunned expression.


    "What the f*ck is that?!" Lucky shouted as he leaned back on the bench, pointing at the sword as it settled in Ricky''s hand.


    His disbelief was palpable, his mind struggling to reconcile what he was seeing with the laws of physics he so firmly believed in.


    "It''s called the Ebony Blade. Pretty cool, right?" Ricky grinned, holding it up with pride.


    "And it talks." Ricky''s toothy smile made Lucky feel incredibly weird, wanting to doubt his words only to remember literally seconds ago flying into his hands.


    At his words, the blade seemed to hum with a sense of pride, its dark surface gleaming as though it were aware of the attention it was receiving.


    "Tell your father I say hello," the Ebony Blade''s voice echoed, its tone oddly smooth and confident and Ricky nodded in acknowledgment, a smirk tugging at his lips as he turned to Lucky.


    "It says hello, by the way," Ricky said, pointing at the sheathed blade with a grin and Lucky, still processing, slowly waved his hand in acknowledgment, his expression a mix of confusion and reluctant acceptance.


    "Hi-uh, Ebony Blade," Lucky mumbled, awkwardly waving at the sword.


    To his surprise, the blade vibrated in response, almost as if it were waving back, its dark surface shimmering with a life of its own and Lucky finally noticed it.


    "And you want to release a sentient sword into the wild?" Lucky whispered, his tone laced with doubt as he couldn''t help but think that might not be the best idea and Ricky just shrugged, unfazed by the concern.


    "Well, what''s the worst that could happen?"


    "A lot of things, literally so many things could happen." Lucky muttered, feeling every red flag in his gut and Ricky, however, just shrugged, his indifference only adding to Lucky''s growing unease.


    "Well, I guess we''ll have to wait and see," Ricky shrugged, his gaze fixed on the blade as it reflected in his eyes.


    Despite the uncertainty hanging in the air, he couldn''t shake the feeling that everything would somehow work out in the end.


    *Sigh*


    "Well, I''m proud of you," Lucky suddenly said, a rare sincerity in his voice as he reached into his jacket, pulling out a cigar and offering one to Ricky with a small nod of approval.


    "Wait what-"


    "Shut up, don''t ruin the moment and let me speak," Lucky grumbled, his voice rough but laced with a touch of affection.


    He clipped the end of his cigar and struck a match, shielding the flame from the wind long enough to light it, the glow briefly illuminating his face.


    "When you left, it was really hard for me, Ricky." Lucky continued, his voice heavy with frustration.


    "Handling all your irresponsible actions, covering up your messes; it got to a point where it became too damn tiring." Lucky leaned back, jabbing the tip of his cigar in Ricky''s direction, the ember glowing as he spoke and Ricky remained silent, absorbing the weight of his words.


    "So when you left, choosing to leave, I thought it would be your biggest mistake but after seeing what you did and who you became, I was wrong.


    " And honestly, the thing that scared me the most was that when you came back, you''d be the same," Lucky admitted, exhaling a thick cloud of smoke. His gaze softened, a rare vulnerability creeping into his words.


    "That you would just treat your time away as a vacation, some excuse to shelter yourself from your own problems but I can see that you''ve changed." Lucky took three slight puffs, bellowing out the smoke into the air.


    "But I''m man enough to admit I was wrong," Lucky said, his tone shifting, signaling his approval resonating in his eyes.


    Even if Ricky tried to brush past it, to skip over the revelation he''d made in the church, Lucky could see it, the weight that had always chained Ricky to his past was finally lifting.


    Lucky had always known there was one thing holding Ricky back from becoming the man he had the potential to be.


    It was hard for him to admit, but deep down, Lucky knew he couldn''t be the one to fix it.


    Ricky had to grow on his own and had to look inward and truly decide if he was strong enough to leave the past behind.


    And it seemed, finally, he had found a way; digging deep into the ground, finding the roots that would hold not only him but the people who needed him most.


    "I expected you to come running in here without a single plan of action. Guess I underestimated you." Lucky took a long drag from his cigar, his eyes never leaving Ricky.


    "Wait, you do have a plan, right?" Lucky asked, his voice tinged with sudden concern, though his posture tense upon seeing Ricky, who simply shrugged in response.


    "No."


    "YOU LITTLE-"


    "I''m kidding, I''m kidding, relax~" Ricky joked, plopping down next to Lucky as he lit his own cigar, taking a deep drag as he threw his arm over the back of the bench and laughed heartily, the sound echoing around them.


    "I''m going to sue the government, take the fight to them first before they can come after us here," Ricky said, puffing out a cloud of smoke as Lucky''s eyes widened, surprised that Ricky had come up with something similar to what he had been considering.


    "Wow, I-I didn''t think you''d think that far." Lucky flinched, actually thinking the same thing alongside Chester and taken aback that Ricky was in that same sphere of thinking.


    "Oh shut the f*ck up." Ricky scoffed, receiving a chuckle from Lucky who nudged him.


    "I''m serious." Lucky insisted, his tone more grounded than usual.


    "I thought you were going to give me some plan that involved attacking the other mobsters, but I didn''t think you''d actually realize the government''s just waiting for us to slip up. They''re just waiting to pounce on us when we make a move in New York." Lucky laughed, the tension melting away as he felt a surprising sense of relief.


    Seeing Ricky think ahead, actually plotting something strategic, was a first, and it made him feel a lot more confident about their next steps.


    "Well, whatever, I''m going to sue the government and Dewey in a civil suit, and hopefully win, or at least stall long enough to tie their hands together so we can really make a move." Ricky said, leaning back on the bench, his confidence radiating.


    Lucky stood up, pacing around as he processed Ricky''s words as the plan wasn''t flawless, but it was bold, and it was exactly the kind of move they needed.


    "No, it would be better if you win, at least in the lower courts, and take it all the way, or force it to the Supreme Court, like Chester suggested." Lucky said, gesturing toward Ricky as he nodded along, the idea making sense, but then he froze.


    Something about the mention of Chester seemed to trigger a shift in his thoughts as he was a little bewildered.


    "I''ll talk with Chester-"


    "I''m sorry, you''ll talk with who now?" Ricky asked sharply, his voice a mix of confusion and suspicion.


    He immediately stood up, his eyes locking onto Lucky, who had realized his slip of the tongue a moment too late. Lucky''s face tightened, realizing the weight of what he had just revealed.


    *Cough*


    "So you see, the thing is-"


    Lucky then proceeded to explain how he and Chester had devised a unique method of communication, a system that allowed them to stay connected and exchange ideas with ease.


    Lucky also went on to explain how he had shared and entrusted Chester with his future plans, confiding in him like a trusted ally while receiving advice from a neutral perspective that evolved into a multitude of things.


    In a surprising turn, the family had recognized Chester''s value and offered him an honorary position as an advisor.


    The weight of the gesture caught Chester off guard, even upon hearing this, Ricky''s usual composure faltered as he stood there, slack-jawed.


    This wasn''t just a role you could throw around, especially within the mafia, in a community that was very strict on who was in need to know, it was a sign of the family''s trust in him, and one that placed him in a position he never expected.


    Chester had always been the quiet observer, the one who stayed in the background, but now, with this new role, he would be pulled deeper into the family''s web of power and influence.


    "I always thought it was suspicious how Rockefeller just let you off like that," Lucky said, snapping his fingers with a knowing look.


    Lucky didn''t need to ask; he already had a pretty good idea of how Ricky managed to wriggle out of that jam thanks entirely to Chester.


    "Holy sh*t, I completely forgot about that!" Ricky exclaimed, the realization hitting him all at once.


    Without warning, he jumped up and down, his excitement palpable as the memory came rushing back.


    "Pops, do you know what this means?!" Ricky burst out, his laughter growing uncontrollable, a wild edge to it as he paced in excitement as his eyes gleamed with money signs, his hands rubbing together widely as if he was using lotion.


    Meanwhile, Lucky, calm and composed, took a slow drag from his cigar, the smoke curling lazily around him as he watched Ricky with an almost detached amusement.


    "That you''re insane-"


    "No, we''re rich!" Ricky shouted, his voice a mix of disbelief and exhilaration. He was grinning ear to ear, as if the revelation was a new discovery.


    Lucky, however, simply exhaled a cloud of smoke, already well aware of the news Ricky was so eager to announce, his expression unreadable.


    "Slick, we''re already rich," Lucky pointed out, his tone matter-of-fact as he leaned back, the weight of his words clear.


    Ricky, however, shook his head, a wild grin spreading across his face as if the magnitude of the situation had only just fully sunk in. He wasn''t quite ready to accept the calm certainty in Lucky''s voice.


    "I mean like 20 million dollars richer-"


    "Oh yeah, I forgot to fill you in, but Lucky Legacy Bank is worth around 200 million," Lucky revealed casually, as though it was just another piece of information.


    The words hung in the air, and Ricky went still, his eyes widening as the weight of the revelation hit him.


    For a moment, he froze, the enormity of the number crashing down on him like a tidal wave.


    Then Lucky started to reveal just how profitable opening a bank with the motto ''Where Everyone Can Bank'' had spiraled into.


    At first, Lucky Legacy Bank was nothing more than a joke, a laughingstock in the eyes of the public.


    Most saw it as an absurd idea, destined to fail.


    The opening of the new establishment within Harem was met with skeptical eyes, even among its own residents.


    Despite Madame''s backing, many remained on edge, wary of another white man getting involved with their hard-earned money.


    There was a deep-rooted mistrust, a lingering fear that the system would once again exploit them, as it always had.


    Even with Madame''s influence and the promise of security, the community hesitated, unsure whether this new venture was truly on their side or just another trap disguised as opportunity.


    That is, until Elijah opened an actual savings account and was allowed to do so without issue.


    It was such a normal action, the man receiving his bank book and all his credentials and even being approved for a small business loan as the the witnesses who saw it were supired.


    He wasn''t insulted, beaten, or dismissed and instead, he was treated with the respect of an actual human being, something so rare in their experience that it left them simply shocked.


    It wasn''t what they expected as the usual coldness, the patronizing gestures, or the violent dismissals were absent.


    In their place was a rare sense of decency, a gesture of genuine respect that caught them off guard, leaving them to wonder if they could truly trust the sincerity behind it.


    Slowly, through Madame''s connections and hushed whispers, the bank''s notoriety began to spread within the black community.


    What was once dismissed as a one off joke had transformed into a symbol of empowerment, becoming so prominent in certain circles that it was soon known as the ''Negro Bank'' to the outside world that wasn''t invested within them.


    Strangely enough, it was this very label that propelled its success.


    By excluding black clientele, the entire banking industry had a unique safe haven for black people, sparing them from the financial ruin that had befallen many in the wake of the stock market crash and allowing Lucky Legacy Bank to be an unusual form of a slush fund.


    The average black man, with a modest stash of between $1,000 and $3,500, was protected from the devastating losses that wiped out so many others.


    New York City had a rough population of 35,000 residents with the entire bulk residing within the community of Harlem.


    So under the networking of Madame, word spread quickly, and what followed was a domino effect.


    The buzz reached ears across the community, sparking a demand for an institution where their money could remain safe and grow along with interest.


    This eventually led to what many would come to call ''The Great Flock,'' a term initially coined in a sarcastic, almost mocking tone to describe the mass migration of black depositors flocking to Lucky Legacy Bank.


    At first, it was a form of ridicule, a way to mock the idea that so many would place their trust in a single institution.


    But over time, the phrase lost its sting as it instead marked the bank''s rise to prominence, solidifying its place as a financial powerhouse within the community, and a testament to the collective trust they had placed in it.


    By 1933, Lucky Legacy Bank had 10,000 accounts. The following year, in 1934, that number skyrocketed to 35,000 as the bank''s reputation grew and once it had solidified its position within the community, the numbers truly caught fire.


    Word spread quickly, and what began as a modest venture soon exploded in popularity, attracting more depositors than anyone could have anticipated.


    Even Black folks from surrounding states, and even from the southern states, would make the long drive to New York just to open an account.


    In 1935, LLC had 400,000 and now it was up to 1,250,000, and steadily growing as being the first bank to hold the black peoples trust came with various benefits.


    This, of course, began to disrupt the status quo and what was initially mockery, an assumption that the Black community''s financial dealings were insignificant, soon turned into sour faces and furrowed brows.


    The once-dismissed market of this marginalized group of people had evolved into a profitable venture that couldn''t be ignored, even by those who had formed this way of banking.


    In simpler terms, Lucky Legacy Bank and its future regional chains made money through a steady flow of deposits and the interest they earned on those accounts.


    The bank offered an annual profit of 7.5% on savings accounts, with the average account holding around $2,000.


    With 1,250,000 accounts, this resulted in a total annual profit of approximately $187,000,000.


    While this may not have seemed extraordinary when compared to larger, more established banks, the real power lay in the bank''s growth.


    The rapid expansion of accounts, the trust it had earned, and the steady influx of new depositors were reshaping the banking sector.


    It wasn''t just the numbers that made Lucky Legacy Bank unique; it was the way it had disrupted the industry and created a viable, profitable alternative for a community that had long been overlooked.


    Even when smaller banks attempted to tap into this profitable market, they quickly failed for one simple reason: Lucky Legacy Bank had already secured the trust of Madame, the first and most influential illegal bank in the area.


    Madame''s role in the bank''s success was paramount; her vast network of connections reached deep into the heart of Harlem and extended all the way to the farthest corners of the South.


    It was through her connections that Lucky Legacy Bank was able to expand rapidly, with plans to open six new branches across the southern states.


    This was, of course, overlooking the fact that any bank daring to encroach on Lucky Legacy Bank''s territory faced swift and brutal retribution.


    Rival institutions that tried to challenge them often found themselves violently confronted, their employees ambushed in dark alleyways with their kneecaps shattered.


    These incidents, though undeniably effective in sending a message, were almost always swept under the rug, dismissed as unfortunate and unreported occurrences.


    However, it wasn''t just the savings accounts that fueled Lucky Legacy Bank''s success.


    The bank''s strategic investments, along with its ability to wash money, played a crucial role in propelling its value to around $250 million.


    The combination of these elements made the bank so profitable that Lucky found himself at a crossroads, contemplating whether it would be more beneficial to focus all his energy on this thriving venture and hand over control of the Luciano family to Ricky.


    Though the decision was on his mind, Lucky was still waiting to see if Ricky had the capability to handle such responsibility, unsure if he was ready to take the reins just yet.


    "Holly sh*t," Ricky muttered, his eyes wide with disbelief. The Luciano family held a staggering 98% stake in Lucky Legacy Bank, as it was a private institution with Madame owning only a mere 2%.


    Lucky nodded in acknowledgment, the weight of the numbers settling between them.


    Ricky couldn''t believe how much control they had, how much power this one venture had given them. It was a game-changer, and the realization that Madame''s small share barely registered in comparison to the Luciano family''s dominance was almost too much to grasp.


    "I''ve even got people like JP Morgan Jr. trying to invest, but I''ll be damned if I let a prick have a piece of the Luciano family name." Lucky scoffed, his voice dripping with disdain at the very mention of Morgan''s name.


    The thought of someone else gaining control or influence over the family''s legacy was an insult he couldn''t stomach.


    "Anyways, with the Luciano family taking in 50 million and being able to clean half of that, we really don''t have to worry about money. Our only concern is someone disrupting the flow." Lucky emphasized, raising an eyebrow at Ricky as his gaze was pointed, a silent challenge lingering in the air, as Ricky was the only one who could truly jeopardize the operation.


    Ricky, however, brushed past it, his mind focused elsewhere, as if the warning had already been heard and dismissed.


    "Pops, listen I have a great business idea that-"


    "Yeah sure, just give me the paperwork." Lucky waved him off, dabbing the cigar ashes to the side.


    "Is it that simple?" Ricky asked, genuinely curious, his voice laced with skepticism and Lucky merely shrugged, the gesture casual but carrying an underlying confidence.


    "Well, I was going to suggest you start a legitimate business, but it looks like you''ve already done it for me," Lucky said with a sly grin, his eyes gleaming with approval.


    "Wait, you''re not just talking out of your ass and actually got the right people for this idea, right?" Lucky suddenly asked, halting his thoughts


    "Yerp."


    "Well that''s good, then let''s get to the main event." Lucky stood up, gesturing to the side as Frank slowly walked out from the side.


    It was then that Ricky turned to see the entire Luciano family making their way toward the graves, each step measured and resolute.


    Frank led the procession, holding the urn containing Eddy''s ashes with quiet reverence.


    Beside him, their grandmother, the oldest living member of the family, walked with a steady arm linked through his.


    She was a symbol of their families endurance, having outlived her son and daughter-in-law, both of whom were already in the afterlife, waiting for Eddy to join them.


    The weight of the moment hung heavy in the air, as the family moved together, bound by loss and the unspoken ritual of their bloodline that was supposed to given to all those within the christian faith.


    Ricky''s gaze fell on Frank, and though no words were spoken, an understanding passed between them, silent, yet palpable.


    It was the kind of unspoken communication only family could share and without hesitation, Ricky opened his portal, swiftly pulling out his decorative cardinal uniform.


    He ducked behind a nearby tree, the rustle of fabric faint in the quiet air as he changed and once the uniform was on, he walked back toward the family, his steps purposeful and steady.


    The air was thick with silence as the family stood, eyes fixed on Ricky, their expressions a mix of emotions.


    Despite their deeply rooted beliefs and the traditions that defined them, they couldn''t ignore the weight of Ricky''s position, his authority within the family and his role within the church demanded respect.


    Slowly, one by one, they lowered their heads, a silent acknowledgment of his status, awaiting the Honorary Cardinal to speak.


    The moment was heavy, charged with the tension of reverence, anticipation, and a deep, unspoken understanding that Ricky''s words would carry far more than just familial weight.


    Alexander wasn''t here to help, but funny enough, Ricky felt as if he wouldn''t need his skill to convey everything he wanted to say.


    "Three years ago, a young man and one of my closest friends, Eddie Costello, passed away." Ricky began, his voice low as he gently patted the cenotaph.


    His hand lingered on it for a moment before he gripped it tightly, as if drawing strength from the stone itself.


    "And it''s true that Eddy took his own life." Ricky continued, his voice heavy with regret but a determination resonating within his eyes.


    "But not only as all of you as my audience, but under the heavens themselves, I need to say; it wasn''t Eddy''s fault. It was mine." Ricky tapped his chest, his fingers pressing into the fabric of his suit as if to anchor himself in the weight of his words.


    The entire family was silent, all eyes on him and Eddy''s grandmother, standing at the front of the group, looked as though she wanted to cry, but she held her tears back, her face a mixture of sorrow and restraint.


    "I was supposed to be his friend, someone he could depend on, and I failed him." Ricky spoke from the heart, as he looked up at the cloudy sky.


    "The writings were painted on the walls, the signs were there but I just ignored them, pretended not to see the pain that Eddy was going through, and there isn''t a day I don''t want to go back and punch myself, then just talk with him." Ricky gripped the cenotaph tightly, gnashing his teeth.


    "It didn''t have to be words of comfort, I just needed to be there for him in any sense and I couldn''t even do that." Ricky then let out a deep breath, then turned his eyes towards the others.


    "That''s why I''ll bear Eddy''s sin." Ricky said, his voice steady but heavy with resolve.


    "I''ll take on its burden, and in doing so, I''ll pardon Eddy from the sin that anchors him to this world. I''ll give my forgiveness, as one of God''s voices." Ricky''s words seemed to manifest in the air, carrying a weight that felt almost tangible.


    Yet, deep down, Ricky didn''t fully believe in religion, nor did he claim to be a devout man.


    But in that moment, he spoke with the authority of someone who needed to say it; not just for the family, but for himself, as if the act of speaking the words would somehow lift a burden he could no longer carry alone but as Ricky spoke those words, something strange began to happen.


    A phenomenon, subtle at first, slowly transformed the skies above them as the clouds seemed to peel away, parting as if in response to Ricky''s plea, and a bright ray of sunshine broke through, shining down onto the cenotaph with a brilliance that seemed almost divine, as if the heavens themselves were accepting his words.


    The entire family stood in stunned silence, each person feeling the weight of the moment.


    Eddy''s grandmother, overcome with emotion, fell to her knees, clutching her prayer beads tightly, tears of joy streaming down her face.


    Frank, usually the stoic one, stood frozen, spellbound by the inexplicable event unfolding before them. The light seemed to wash over the family, a sign, or perhaps a blessing, that no one could deny.


    Even Lucky, thinking Ricky wasn''t even holy in the metaphorical sense, slowly took off his fedora while gazing up with his mouth agape.


    "Now, let''s give Eddy the burial he deserved."


    With those next words, as if the heavens themselves had willed it, shovels suddenly dug into the empty grave, their rhythmic motion filling the air as the ground was slowly turned.


    The hole deepened, and in that moment, Frank stepped forward, a warm, bittersweet smile playing at the corners of his mouth.


    The years had worn down the tough, hard-nosed man standing before them, the weight of loss heavy on his shoulders.


    Frank had always been the pillar of his family, the one everyone leaned on, but the death of Eddy had cracked him in ways no one could see.


    Beneath his hardened exterior, the loss had left him fragile, struggling with the unspoken grief that gnawed at him.


    Frank was a believing man.


    He believed in the Luciano family, in God, and in his own blood, leaving no room in his heart for anything else.


    But after the church had shunned his little brother, condemning him as an eternal sinner, Frank was torn.


    To watch his younger brother deteriorate into a hollow shell of the person he once was, and then be treated like some sort of demon, was a wound that ran deeper than Frank had ever admitted.


    It shattered him at his core, leaving scars he couldn''t ignore even when he desperately tried.


    The following years didn''t offer any solace and even as Frank pushed the family to new heights, elevating their status and influence, he felt as though he were drowning beneath the weight of it all.


    The very beliefs that had once guided him, given him purpose and direction, now felt like a labyrinth with no exit.


    His faith, which had once been his anchor, now left him feeling adrift, lost in a sea of confusion and doubt.


    At his lowest point, when he felt like he was simply drifting through life, Frank had heard Ricky''s speech with a bottle of rum in his hands.


    Frank had barricaded himself within his office, as he often did throughout the day, seeking refuge from the world outside.


    The walls, thick with the weight of his own thoughts, had become his sanctuary, his only escape from the relentless pressure of running the family and the quiet, gnawing ache that followed him in the wake of Eddy''s death.


    But then, Ricky''s words came to him, clear and unwavering as the sound of them rang in Frank''s ears, and for a fleeting moment, it was as if everything clicked into place.


    Ricky had promised to recognize Eddy, to give him the funeral he deserved, something Frank never thought he would see in his life, see a moment of redemption for his little brother.


    It was then, in that silent moment of realization, that Frank allowed himself to believe, if only for a brief second, that maybe there was still hope.


    Maybe, in some way, Eddy could find peace and maybe, just maybe, the smile he always remembered would at least return in the next life.


    *Sniff*


    "You rest up in heaven, you hear?" Frank sniffled, his voice cracking with emotion and as he whispered the words to Eddy as if speaking directly to his brother''s spirit.


    His hand trembled slightly as he pressed a kiss to the urn, the weight of the moment bearing down on him.


    Slowly, he lowered the urn into the pit, his eyes welling with tears and as the urn settled into the earth, he wiped his eyes quickly, unable to contain the overwhelming flood of grief and relief that surged through him all at once.


    A mobster stepped forward, holding the shovel in his calloused hands as it was customary for those close to the deceased to take part in the burial, a final act of respect and loyalty.


    He stood by Frank, waiting for him to give the signal, but Frank''s smile remained, steady and sure, as he gestured toward Ricky.


    "No, I''d like Slick to do the honors," Frank said suddenly, his voice steady but filled with a quiet resolve.


    Frank reached out and gently pushed the shovel away, refusing the task of burying his little brother and instead, he turned to Ricky, offering him a warm, almost peaceful smile.


    "It''d be my honor." Ricky said softly, his voice steady despite the gravity of the moment and as he reached out, his fingers wrapping around the cold handle of the shovel.


    With a purposeful stride, he walked over to the pit, his every step resonating with the weight of the responsibility he was about to carry out.


    The shovel sank into the mound of dirt, the heavy metal cutting through the soil with a satisfying thud.


    Ricky''s arms worked in steady rhythm, lifting and dumping the earth into the pit and each shovelful fell with a quiet finality, covering Eddy''s urn as it fulfilled the promise Ricky had made, a funeral for his friend that would honor his life, his struggles, and now, his peace.


    The dirt slowly piled higher, shrouding the urn completely as the weight of the moment settled over them all.


    Ricky hadn''t done much for Eddy while he was alive, the distance between them often marked by unspoken words and missed opportunities.


    But in his death, Ricky didn''t ask for any amends but used this chance to simply do right by Eddy, like any true friend would.


    As the earth fell upon the urn, Ricky''s resolve solidified as it wasn''t much, but it was everything he had left to give.


    The lingering regret that had weighed heavily on Ricky''s chest began to lift, the burden easing as earth firmly settled over Eddy''s urn.


    He couldn''t hold onto this part of himself any longer, not when it meant keeping a sorrow alive that had no place in the present.


    As he closed his eyes, Ricky felt that part of him, the guilt and the missed chances, finally buried alongside his friend.


    ''Rest in peace buddy, you deserve that much.''


    The family began to disperse from the scene, each member silently returning to their duties.


    There were still deals to be made, debts to collect, and people who needed to sleep with the fishes.


    "Oh, thank you, thank you~" Eddy''s grandmother sobbed into Ricky''s embrace, her gratitude pouring out in waves.


    She had been thanking him for the past twenty minutes, her voice trembling with emotion as she clung to him, her hands gently patting his back in a mix of sorrow and relief.


    "I only did what Eddy would''ve done for me, that''s all," Ricky chuckled, holding the old woman in a gentle embrace.


    She looked up at him with teary eyes, then reached up to tap his cheek lightly, her smile bittersweet yet full of gratitude.


    "You''re a good boy, be proud of yourself." Eddy''s grandmother gave him a warm smile, saying such simple words that left Ricky a little speechless.


    "Slick, thank you," Frank said, stepping up to Ricky''s side as he gave his shoulder a firm tap, his proud expression softening the weathered lines of his face.


    While the scars of his grief hadn''t healed overnight, there was a noticeable shift, a little more color returned to his complexion, as if the weight he carried had lightened just slightly.


    "And grandma, Slick still has stuff he needs to do." Frank then turned to his grandma, prying her from Ricky before gesturing her away.


    "You come over for dinner some time, you are too skinny!" Eddy''s grandmother shouted as she was essentially shooed away by Frank.


    Lucky, unable to suppress his smile, strolled over and draped an arm around Ricky''s shoulder, giving his chest a hearty pat.


    "C''mon, let''s go move all your sh*t from the port." Lucky said with a light shove, nudging Ricky as they began walking toward the car waiting patiently by the curb.


    "Also, I got another surprise for you at the house, so let''s hurry up," Lucky chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes and Ricky, curious, couldn''t help but wonder if it was a brand new car.


    Arriving at the dock with Ricky some time later, they all started unpacking all of the three years spent away.


    With a strange expression, Lucky tried not to feel like an outsider as he watched warlocks and witches effortlessly lift various items into the air.


    Meanwhile, skeletons shuffled around, moving the lesser trinkets off the ship as he couldn''t help but feel the weight of it all, he was unknowingly part of this world now, whether he wanted to be or not.


    Lucky departed a little while later, feeling a bit overwhelmed and Ricky didn''t blame him as he helped until they really didn''t need him anymore as he arrived back at the old mansion.


    "Ah~" Ricky took in a large breath of fresh air.


    "Home sweet, home." Ricky then heaved out that breath of fresh air, walking forwards while rubbing his hands together.


    "Pops, pops, you home?" Ricky called out as he walked up the stairs, not expecting anything that huge as he saw Lucky standing outside a door.


    "You ready?" Lucky asked, knocking on the door. Ricky rubbed his hands together, curiosity bubbling up inside him about what to expect.


    However, contrary to his expectations, the door creaked open to reveal a pink room.


    In the center stood a small, four-year-old girl with blonde hair, clutching a teddy bear in her arms as her eyes locked onto Ricky as she stood there, innocently staring.


    *SMACK*


    Ricky stood frozen in the doorway, momentarily stunned by the unexpected sight of the little girl.


    Before he could process what was happening, Lucky smacked the back of his head with a smirk, sneering at him.


    "Say hello to your daughter, Danielle." Lucky scoffed, pushing the frozen stiff Ricky forward as he stumbled into the room slathered head to toe in pink.


    "F*cking idiot." Lucky hissed out, knowing that Ricky probably thought he was going to get a brand new car as he closed the door behind him.


    Ricky stood frozen, his gaze fixed on the girl whose name echoed that of his departed sister.


    The mention of it caught him off guard as he stared at the little girl, who shyly lowered her eyes, her grip on the teddy bear tightening as she shyly dug her face into it.


    However Ricky didn''t shy away this time, he didn''t turn around and leave but slowly got on one knee with a bright and loving smile.


    "Hi, I''m Ricky Luciano but the best part is that I''m your dad."


    Author''s Note: I feel like a POS but I''m literally addicted to rewatching and binging all of Overlord, I''ll see your comments eventaully. MB.

 Chapter 116: Chapter 112: Pleasant Day Ruined

    Chapter 116: Chapter 112: Pleasant Day Ruined


    ?


    [Name: Danielle Luciano


    Mother''s Line: Dolly Henderson


    Grade: C


    Template: N/A


    Description: Dolly had been unaware that you even knew that she was pregnant and had been hiding it from you all this time, hence the distancing. Giving birth in secret, Dolly gave birth to your first child though decided single motherhood wasn''t an option and gave her to Lucky.


    Abilities:


    X-Gene Empathic Touch: An ability that allows the user to perceive and understand the emotions of others through physical contact. When the user touches another person, they instantly gain insight into that person''s current emotion.]


    This was the window Ricky often found himself staring through after his training sessions, lost in thought as sometimes he would gaze out at it, wondering about the kind of little person he had brought into the world.


    Back then, he hadn''t cared much for his bastards or their individuality, their potential, or the lives they might lead.


    Instead, his thoughts had been more selfish, centered on whether they could one day hand him a few bucks for beer.


    "Pretty cool, huh?" Ricky said with a smile, his tone light and inviting as Danielle clutched her teddy bear a little tighter, her small hands gripping it like a shield.


    "Yeah." Danielle murmured softly, nodding as her wide, expectant eyes lifted to meet his.


    Grandpop Lucky had always filled her head with stories about Ricky-the daring things he''d done for the family, the way he commanded respect, and, most importantly.


    How much he loved her.


    However, Danielle was scared, terrified even, that Ricky wouldn''t love her the way Grandpop Lucky always said he would.


    Her tiny hands clutched the teddy bear tighter as Ricky stepped forward, lowering himself onto one knee to meet her at eye level.


    Danielle didn''t know how to react, her social anxiety creeping in as she averted her eyes to the floor and hesitantly extended her hand.


    Her X-Gene had given her the ability to sense and read others'' emotions, a trait that had shaped her behavior over time.


    She had developed a habit of feeling secure only after understanding how someone felt about her.


    It was why she always felt safe in Lucky''s arms, his overwhelming care and affection for her were like a comforting blanket that eased her fears.


    "I''m sorry it took me so long to come back," Ricky said softly, a warm smile spreading across his face as he gently took Danielle''s small hand in his.


    "Looks like we''ve got a lot of catching up to do." Ricky''s chuckle was lighthearted, but the weight of his words wasn''t lost on either of them as his emotions flowed towards her.


    Danielle''s eyes welled up, her lips trembling as tears began to spill, overwhelmed by the moment she had always hoped for.


    *Sniff*


    "Wh-What did I do?" Ricky stammered, his brow furrowing in confusion.


    Then, like a wave, it hit him, the empathic sensation flowing back from Danielle, her emotions brushing against his own.


    Relief, pure and overwhelming relief.


    Before he could say another word, Danielle dropped her bear and bolted into his arms, wrapping herself around him tightly.


    Ricky staggered slightly, caught off guard, but steadied himself as her small frame trembled against his chest.


    She sniffled, clutching him with all the strength her little arms could muster, as if afraid he might disappear.


    Ricky simply smiled, caressing her bright blond hair while showing his sincerity, and in that moment, all her fears dissolved.


    10 minutes later,


    Lucky, who had been peeking in through the crack of the door, couldn''t help but smile at the scene before him.


    Ricky sat on the floor with Danielle curled up on his lap, her tiny arms still clinging to him as if she never wanted to let go.


    Ricky''s expression was soft, his hand gently patting her back as he murmured something soothing.


    ''You''re kidding.'' Lucky frowned, peeking through the door, knowing how shy Danielle was as she avoided talking to nearly everyone and clammed up at the slightest attention.


    Yet, somehow, Ricky had managed to break through that wall with ease.


    But Ricky had a way with his kid that was impossible to explain as it was like he had a natural gift for making people feel comfortable, especially those closest to him.


    Kids, no matter how timid or reserved, always seemed to feel comfortable around Ricky, like he had an unspoken way of making them feel seen and understood.


    For the last ten minutes, the two had been chatting back and forth, diving into the simplest yet most endearing topics as their conversation flowed effortlessly, going something like


    this:


    "What''s your favorite color?" Ricky asked, glancing up at the pink walls, already having a pretty good idea of the answer.


    "Pink." Danielle replied softly, and Ricky chuckled, nodding in agreement.


    "Who''s the coolest person you know?" Ricky asked, his tone light and Danielle''s smile bloomed as she looked down, her cheeks tinged with pink.


    "I don''t know," Danielle muttered, though her smile was evident, causing Ricky to laugh.


    "Oh, come on, you have the answer right in front of you." Ricky gestured to himself dramatically, and Danielle let out a soft laugh.


    "Chester."


    "W-What!?" Ricky''s jaw dropped, exaggerating his shock as he swayed Danielle in his arms, her laughter filling the room once more.


    "Oh, I almost forgot to tell you my favorite color," Ricky said, thinking aloud. Danielle looked up at him, waiting for an answer, but he remained silent.


    "What is it?" Danielle murmured, eager for the answer.


    Ricky smiled down at her, rubbing his chin thoughtfully before snapping his fingers right in front of Danielle to keep her attention.


    "Mine''s green. So, what''s your favorite food-"


    As they talked, Ricky learned all sorts of things about his daughter; Danielle loved pink, her favorite person was him and not Chester, she adored Lucky and Chester, and she had a soft spot for ice cream and horses.


    What Danielle hated, though, was the color blue, for some reason she couldn''t explain.


    She also disliked Frank, and swans, there was just something about them that unsettled her but what really caught Ricky off guard was her intense dislike of baseball caps.


    "Why baseball caps?"


    "They look funny."


    "I guess I never thought of that," Ricky mused, realizing that baseball caps did look a little


    odd now.


    "Are you going to leave again?" Danielle asked softly, her voice filled with uncertainty. "Probably," Ricky said softly, his gaze dropping to Danielle, the weight of his words bringing


    a sudden sadness to her expression.


    "Oh." Danielle''s somber tone echoed out, holding his hand a little tighter as Ricky felt an intense wave of sadness flow through her.


    "But it''s only work and I''ll be gone for a couple of weeks." Ricky rubbed her blond hair, seeing


    the girl look back up at him.


    "Will you come back?" Danielle asked, her big eyes filled with a quiet desperation as she clutched his shirt tightly, afraid he might slip away if she didn''t hold on. "Duh." Ricky pinched her cheek, only for Daneille to slowly duck her head again.


    "Will you leave me again?" Danielle asked, not wanting him to leave as she looked a little


    teary eyed.


    "Uh, of course not." Ricky grinned, gently lifting her chin so she looked up at him, pinching


    her cheeks playfully.


    "If I ever move or settle down somewhere else, you''re coming with me." Ricky revealed, his words making Danielle''s eyes light up with excitement, stars practically twinkling in them as


    she looked at him in awe.


    "Really?"


    "Of course, I''m taking you with me, kiddo. I''ll stuff you in my suitcase if I have to." Ricky laughed, and Danielle finally let out a sigh, her shoulders relaxing as a smile spread across her


    face.


    "Okay." Danielle felt contempt at his words, lowering her gaze along with her wide smile. "Anyways, you want to get some ice cream?" Ricky asked, standing up as Danielle snuggled


    into his arms.


    "Yeah." Danielle rested her head on his shoulder, her voice soft as they walked out of the


    room together.


    *BAM*


    Ricky opened the door suddenly, causing Lucky to tumble backward, rubbing his head as a


    bump quickly formed.


    "Ow~" Lucky groaned, rubbing his back and looking up at Ricky, raising an eyebrow and


    offering a smile.


    "Grandpop?" Danielle tilted her head cutely, her blonde pigtails swaying as she looked at him


    with curiosity.


    "Hey, honey bear, I was just fixing the door," Lucky lied with a sheepish grin, but Ricky


    snickered, earning a glare as they walked past him.


    "Let''s go, honey bear, we''ve got ice cream to eat while grandpop here fixes the door," Ricky


    teased, walking away with Danielle in tow as Lucky shot him a hateful glare, but Ricky just laughed, clearly enjoying the moment.


    "Oh, I almost forgot to ask, how''s Jake been?" Ricky stopped and glanced back at Lucky, who


    let out a dry cough.


    "I''ll fill you in after you take her out for some ice cream," Lucky said, forcing a smile. Ricky


    raised an eyebrow, but before he could say anything, he looked down to see Danielle tugging


    at his shirt.


    "What are you getting?" Danielle asked cutely, her big eyes wide with curiosity. Ricky smiled, hoisting her into his arms as they stepped out the door.


    "Whatever you want, kiddo," Ricky said with a wink, carrying her outside.


    "I don''t know what I want." Danielle pouted, feeling unease at all the flavors she would have


    to pick from.


    "What about chocolate?" Ricky asked, walking out of the mansion as the sun hadn''t quite set


    in.


    "I don''t want Chocolate."


    "Then do you want to get Vanilla?"


    "Yeah."


    Their conversations played out like this, with Ricky asking questions and Danielle offering


    brief, shy responses.


    It was a rhythm they had fallen into, comfortable and easy, each word exchanged like a small


    step toward getting to know each other better.


    When they arrived at the ice cream parlor, Danielle clung to him like a koala bear on an eucalyptus tree, her arms wrapped tightly around his neck as they sat down.


    The moment they entered, whispers seemed to ripple through the small crowd.


    Ricky didn''t bother paying attention to the passing glances; his focus was on Danielle, who


    was nestled close to him, her small form practically fused to his side.


    Two vanilla sundaes were set down in front of them, the whipped cream piled high and


    topped with a cherry.


    "On the house, Slick. Welcome home." One of the servers said with a smile, nodding toward


    Ricky, who returned the gesture with a grin of his own.


    "Cheers," Ricky replied, lifting his glass in a casual toast before clicking it gently against


    Danielle''s.


    She, in her excitement, hurriedly took her ice cream, the cold sweetness causing her face to light up with delight.


    Ricky watched her for a moment, a soft chuckle escaping his lips as she dug in, oblivious to


    the stares around them as it was a simple moment, one that felt like it could last forever.


    "You really like ice cream."


    "I really do."


    They both laughed at the sight, Danielle''s joy infectious as she continued to enjoy her ice


    cream, a little smear of chocolate on her cheek.


    Ricky, however, couldn''t help but glance out the window, his gaze drifting over the busy


    streets.


    Gazes passed him as if he were a fleeting wonder, but Ricky knew the truth since they weren''t looks of curiosity, they were filled with fear.


    His presence in the city wasn''t just noticed; it was felt.


    His very existence meant something to the people who looked his way, like a match to the


    gasoline.


    The families had begun disputing over everything, and Ricky''s return was the spark that


    threatened to ignite it all.


    The growing discontent simmered beneath the surface, unnoticed by most but felt by those


    who were close enough to see the cracks.


    Nothing had erupted into full-blown violence yet, but the small, constant squabbles were


    enough to weigh heavily on the people around him.


    Law-abiding citizens couldn''t help but feel the tension in the air, it was only a matter of time


    before their world collided with the chaos of the underworld, whether they liked it or not.


    "Are you looking at the balloon too?" Danielle quietly asked, snapping Ricky out of his daze as he looked back at her and then back out the window.


    There, he saw a kid walking around with a pink balloon, laughing loudly while talking to his


    friend as a thought sparked in his mind.


    "Hey, Danielle, close your eyes," Ricky said with a smile. Danielle, ever trusting, shut her


    eyes, her curiosity piqued as Ricky stood up.


    However, the fearful gazes that lingered on Ricky didn''t bother him at all and sometimes,


    they had their benefits.


    "Hey, brat!" Ricky called out to the kid with the balloon, a grin spreading across his face.


    The moment the kid''s eyes locked on him, they widened in fear, his smile faltering as he froze in place.


    It wasn''t all that uncommon for people to recognize Ricky after the Irish massacre as the


    families made sure he was easily identifiable, a tactic to ensure he could be reported if necessary.


    However, this had a butterfly effect and slowly, everyone on the streets began to learn what Ricky looked like.


    "Oh geez, what did you do, Trevor!" One of the kids yelped, backing up quickly, leaving


    Trevor standing alone.


    "I swears, I didn''t do anything, Slick I''m sorry-"


    "Give me your balloon." Ricky held out his hand, his fingers making a ''gimme'' motion as


    Trevor glanced nervously at the balloon.


    "B-But, it''s my balloon-"


    "Actually, kid, you''re just confused." Ricky pointed at the balloon with a smile, his tone


    almost playful.


    "That''s actually my balloon, so cough it up." Ricky leaned in a little closer, his smile never


    fading but his eyes cold since he wasn''t afraid to go as far as pushing him to the ground then stealing his lunch money.


    "Trevor, just give it to him!" Trevor''s friend whispered loudly from the side, clearly nervous


    as Trevor hesitated for a moment, then reluctantly held out the balloon. "Hmmmm." Ricky hummed thoughtfully, glancing down at the balloon as he took it from the


    kid''s trembling hand.


    "Now you''re making me feel like some kind of thug. You think I''m a thug?" Ricky asked,


    raising an eyebrow as Trevor quickly shook his head, wide-eyed.


    "No I-" "You know what would make me feel better? Your lunch money. Cough it up." Ricky made another gimme motion, watching as Trevor pouted, but reluctantly reached into his overalls. "Four nickels, really?" Ricky scoffed, counting the change in his hand before pocketing it.


    "And I want your shoes, too cause why not? I''ve already gone this far." Ricky held out his hand, watching as Trevor sniffled and reluctantly handed over his shoes.


    Ricky tied the laces together and tossed the shoes onto the power lines, watching them dangle


    there as he let out a satisfied sigh, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders.


    "I feel better now~" Ricky muttered, nodding in contentment as he glanced back at Trevor.


    "And a word of advice," Ricky added, giving Trevor a light flick on the forehead. "Get a damn red balloon next time like a f*cking man." Ricky turned away, his voice dripping


    with amusement as he walked off.


    Trevor stood there, rubbing his eyes, while his friend cautiously reappeared from behind a corner, looking at the scene with wide eyes.


    "Man, he really shook you down for all you had, I guess the rumors of him losing his touch were rumors after all-"


    "Got that right!" Ricky called out with a chuckle, watching as the kid went pale and bolted in


    the opposite direction, Trevor stumbling after him in pursuit.


    Ricky grinned, shaking his head as the chaos unfolded, the brief moment of power leaving


    him with a sense of satisfaction.


    "Okay, now open your eyes Daneille."


    *Gasp*


    "A pink balloon!" Daneille''s eyes had stars in them, taking the pink balloon before Ricky suddenly placed the four nickels on the table.


    "Money!" Daneille happily said, reaching out for the nickels as Ricky patted her head.


    "Are you ready to go back?" Ricky asked with a smile, watching Danielle bobbing her head up


    and down as he picked her up.


    Walking back to the mansion with a content smile on her face, Danielle''s head suddenly jerked


    to the side after hearing the distinct sound of wings flapping.


    Her eyes scanned the sky, narrowing slightly as she searched for the source of the noise, the


    peacefulness of the moment disrupted by the unfamiliar sound.


    "Chester!" Danielle yelled out, her voice filled with excitement as the bird flapped toward her


    as she embraced him gently, stroking its feathers with her free hand. "Hello, my little bird," Chester cooed, his tone affectionate as Danielle smiled, feeling a


    familiar warmth in his presence.


    "And it''s nice to see you, Ricky," Chester added, turning his gaze to Ricky, who rolled his eyes


    in response.


    "Yeah, good to see you too," Ricky said with a smile, watching as Chester flapped over and landed on his arm.


    "Seriously, good to see you." Ricky added, his tone genuine this time as Chester nodded its


    beak in acknowledgment, the bond between them evident.


    "It truly is. How''s Alexander holding up?" Chester asked, his tone soft while wondering what


    his furry familiar in arms was up to as he looked at Ricky.


    "Still bad at Go-Fish." Ricky shrugged, Chester nodding with a slight huckle escaping his


    beak.


    "I don''t think three years would''ve made a difference on that front. And Henry?" Chester


    asked, his words trailing off as a heavy silence settled between them.


    "I-I see." Chester noticed Ricky look away, letting out a sigh before he turned back to him.


    "He saved my life by stalling Dracula long enough for me to escape." Ricky revealed, and Chester nodded in understanding and though their relationship hadn''t been the best, they


    still shared a bond of familiarity.


    "I wanted to hold a service, but it didn''t feel right if you didn''t come," Ricky smiled at


    Chester, who looked slightly surprised before giving him a curious look.


    "Who are you, and what have you done with my summoner?" Chester asked, his tone a mix of


    confusion and amusement.


    Ricky opened his mouth to reply, but before he could say anything, Chester turned his gaze


    elsewhere.


    "CHESTER, MY FRIEND, I HAVE RETURNED!" Alexander called out into the night, perched


    atop Asterion, who waved a greeting to the crow.


    "I am Asterion, I''ve heard a lot about you," Asterion said politely, his deep voice carrying


    through the night air.


    Lucky inhaled sharply, a cold breath escaping him as he processed the strange sight.


    Danielle, wide-eyed and clearly fascinated, stared at the duo, her gaze flicking between the


    talking bull and what she had first assumed was a talking mouse. "I''m taking Danielle inside," Lucky said firmly, already turning to lead her away. Danielle, however, reached out toward Asterion, her small hand stretching as if wanting to


    touch the mystical creature.


    "I''ll tuck you in later, okay, honey bear?" Ricky called over his shoulder, flashing a reassuring


    smile at her.


    Danielle puffed her cheeks, a bit pouty, but she nodded, her reluctance fading as she followed Lucky inside.


    "Am I to assume you''ve made friends, undead alike?" Chester asked, eyeing Asterion,


    followed by the small army behind him.


    "It''s a much longer story," Ricky replied with an anxious laugh, rubbing the back of his neck.


    Chester raised an eyebrow, then his gaze shifted lazily to the cat casually laying in Asterion''s


    arms.


    "You are?"


    "Garfield, the lovable cat," Garfield said, winking at the reader before looking back at Chester, who squinted his eyes in amusement.


    "I see there''s a lot to love," Chester replied with a witty comment, which made Garfield''s ears


    stand up in slight surprise.


    "I''m big boned-"


    "No, you''re not, that''s Garfield. He''s a pain in the ass, but he''s our pain in the ass. "Ricky


    replied with a grin as Garfield, arms crossed, shot them a look of mild annoyance, as if to


    make it clear he knew exactly what Ricky meant.


    "I better get my lasagna," Garfield grumbled, his tone dripping with the kind of entitlement


    only a cat could pull off, despite his recent behavior being borderline tolerable, if you could


    even call it that.


    "Anyways Asterion, could you shrink or-" Ricky wondered out loud, seeing that the mansion wouldn''t be able to house his mighty figure as Asteiorn nodded.


    "I could turn into a human if that would suffice." Asterion gestured, smiling while Ricky gave


    him a dumb look.


    "You could have done that this whole time, why didn''t you say something?" Ricky asked,


    knowing there could''ve been a lot of places they could''ve gone that wouldn''t have freaked


    everyone out.


    "Well, you didn''t ask."


    11


    ||


    Asterion then shifted before their eyes, his form rippling as he morphed into a muscular Greek


    man with striking white hair.


    His only garment was a simple cloth draped around his waist, leaving his chiseled physique


    on full display as he stood tall, exuding an aura of strength and ancient power. "Chuck, Boney. Chester will guide you to the basement, where you''ll stay until I figure out


    what to do with you," Ricky ordered, his tone firm.


    The skeletons exchanged glances, their hollow eyes locking on Chester, who let out a long


    sigh.


    "Fine, fine," Chester muttered, clearly unamused, but resigned to the task.


    "Follow me."


    Now left with only them, they walked into the house, where Esmerelda was cooking up a


    storm in the kitchen.


    "Oh, bambino, sit, sit!" Esmerelda gestured eagerly, her hands covered in flour as she worked


    over the stove.


    Ricky sighed with a smile, stepping over to the counter and sitting down, watching her with


    fondness as she continued her culinary masterpiece.


    Garfield was absolutely enamored, slowly crawling out of Asterion''s arms and stretching


    towards the kitchen.


    His eyes locked onto Esmerelda, the woman who would forever be his favorite on this entire


    planet.


    He wiped his eyes dramatically, as if to say he was on the verge of tears, and slowly padded


    toward her, his stubby legs barely keeping up with his enthusiasm.


    "I''m home."


    "Slick." Lucky called from the stairs, his voice sharp, cutting through the air. Ricky glanced


    up, a strange feeling settling in his chest.


    "Yeah?" Ricky responded, his tone a little cautious as he started to walk up, but instead of waiting, Lucky turned and headed straight for his office. Ricky followed, still unsure of the tension hanging between them. As he stepped into the


    room, he noticed the air felt heavy, thick with unspoken words as Lucky stood by his desk, his


    eyes fixed on Ricky with a look that was unreadable. "It''s about Jake, he''s missing." Lucky finally came clean, looking at Ricky who was


    momentarily frozen before his rage boiled over. "WHAT!?" Ricky yelled, his voice echoing through the room as he stormed over to Lucky, his


    frustration boiling over.


    *BAM*


    Ricky slammed his fist against the desk, a slight crack forming while causing the papers


    scattered across it to flutter slightly.


    "Who was it! Was it the Gambino family or the-"


    "It''s not any family, it''s complicated-"


    "Then explain it to me. Where the hell is Jake?" Ricky demanded, his voice low and dangerous


    as he stormed over to Lucky.


    His rage was palpable, and the desk groaned under the pressure of his hands, splintering


    slightly as he gripped it.


    Lucky raised an eyebrow but didn''t flinch, his eyes sharp as he assessed the situation. "After you left, Jake was under a lot of pressure to not only prove himself to the family but to prove himself to you, and to cope with the stress, he turned to substances." Lucky continued,


    his words cutting through the air, freezing Ricky''s entire body in place. "What?" Ricky''s eyes widened in shock, while Lucky pressed his hands together tightly. "The kid only mixed with cocaine at first, which we overlooked since all of us take a dab once and a while, but then he went deeper into the rabbit hole and started messing with heroin."


    Lucky''s words hit Ricky like a wave of guilt, he couldn''t shake the feeling that, in some way,


    he was entirely responsible.


    It had been Ricky who urged Jake all those years ago, but more than anything, it was his


    influence that had pushed Jake deeper into the rabbit hole, now buried under the weight of the


    addiction that consumed him.


    "I''m sorry Slick but he crumbled, it''s not your fault." Lucky patted his shoulder as Ricky


    silently stood there.


    Here''s a revised version:


    "The same pressure that creates diamonds is the same that can shatter concrete." Lucky


    voiced out, trying to ease Ricky who covered his face.


    Instead of feeling guilt, Ricky erupted into almost hysterical laughter, quickly covering his


    eyes as if trying to block out the reality and Lucky remained silent, watching him without a


    word.


    "I was going to come get you to tell you I wanted to make a move regarding the families, but


    this takes priority." Ricky suddenly turned away, heading for the door as Lucky reached out.


    "Slick, wait-"


    "A Luciano never turns their back on one of their own. You were the one who always told me


    that," Ricky said, pointing at Lucky as the man swallowed his own words, letting out a deep


    sigh. *SIGH* "Slick, it''s not that simple. Everyone in the family has been looking for him. Even Meyer took


    time off to help, but the kid just vanished," Lucky said, gesturing to Ricky, emphasizing that


    it wasn''t as straightforward as he was making it seem.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll find him, but I''ll need a key to his house." Ricky coughed up, Lucky sighing


    before ruffling through his desk since Meyer had given him one to check in on Jake from time


    to time.


    "What was the move?" Lucky suddenly asked, his pace of searching continuing but looking up


    at Ricky.


    "I wanted to know the closest confidants of heads." Ricky walked over, watching Lucky find a


    mess of keys while going through each and every one.


    "Because?"


    "Because when I take everything from them, I don''t want anything swept under the rug, I


    don''t want them to hide a single asset from me." Ricky''s eyes were cold, remembering the


    words Profaci told him about the families kicking him out.


    "I''m taking everything from them, and I''m not leaving a single breadcrumb for their f*cking


    families." Ricky spat, his eyes burning with menace and Lucky met his gaze, silently handing over the key. Although it wasn''t the kind of length he''d usually go to, Lucky didn''t try to stop him. Everyone has their line, the point where they know they''ve gone too far and every man, especially those in the underworld, has to draw that line for themselves. But those lines didn''t exist for bosses, for those at the top, those who had to cross boundaries


    for both moral and immoral gains.


    Profit was profit; it wasn''t as simple as good or bad. The only thing that mattered for a family was success, and the boss had to do whatever it took


    to ensure they were elevated even higher because stagnation was unacceptable.


    Lucky was his own boss, but he also understood that Ricky was his own boss as well.


    Someone who needed to develop, to iron out his own path, regardless of whether he agreed or


    not.


    "I''ll see to it."


    10 minutes later,


    Ricky arrived at the lone two-story house, the dim light of the evening casting long shadows across the broken landscape.


    As he stepped inside, the full extent of Jake''s fall hit him like a wave as the place was


    destroyed, furniture overturned, walls scuffed and scarred, as though seventeen grown men


    had unleashed all their fury in a vicious battle, tearing the space apart in a frenzy.


    But it wasn''t the wreckage that stopped Ricky in his tracks as his gaze drifted to the wall,


    where a picture hung crookedly. It was from three years ago, a time that felt both distant and


    painfully close.


    Ricky, Rocco, Eddy, and Jake, all of them smiling, caught in a moment before everything had


    shattered.


    Before the choices, before the gruesome events, before the struggles. Ricky''s frown deepened, not because of the destruction around him, but because of that damn


    picture.


    It was a ghost from a time when things were simpler, or at least, he''d believed they were. "Dammit, Jake," Ricky muttered under his breath, his frustration boiling over. He stormed up


    the stairs, pushed open the bathroom door, and grabbed a stray hair from his comb. Ricky''s eyes narrowed as he examined it, not at the hair but at the figure who had been


    following him this whole time.


    Then, just as he turned to set the comb down, a shadow flickered in the corner of his vision as


    it moved slowly, deliberately, creeping toward him.


    Ricky


    moved silently, slipping toward the side and staying just out of sight so that it forced


    the figure to come closer.


    The figure, aware of this movement, continued creeping forward, its gaze fixed on the spot


    where Ricky


    had vanished.


    As it turned to where he should have been, it froze, a chill running down its spine as Ricky wasn''t in front of him, but right behind him, standing silently in the shadows, a predator


    waiting for the right moment.


    "Five words, all you get before I slice your throat," Ricky, who had successfully blended into


    the shadows, hissed out as his voice low and menacing, causing the figure to immediately


    raise their hands in surrender.


    "S-Slick, it''s me, Meyer!" Meyer stammered, his voice shaking and Ricky froze, recognition


    hitting him like a wave as he slowly lowered the dagger. "Holy sh*t, Uncle Meyer, how have you been?" Ricky muttered, his voice filled with surprise


    and relief.


    He turned the ragged man around and pulled him into a tight hug, the tension between them


    easing.


    finally "I would''ve been better if you were Jake." Meyer let out a tired laugh, patting Ricky''s back


    before the latter backed up.


    "Sorry bout sneaking up on you, I just thought you were Jake and I-"


    "No, no, don''t apologize." Ricky held up his hand, stopping Meyer who felt guilty.


    "If anything, it''s my fault for pulling a knife on you-"


    "No, no, it''s my fault for sneaking up on you." Meyer held up his hand this time, stopping


    Ricky who felt guilty.


    ||


    "Are you looking for Jake too?" Meyer asked, watching as Ricky placed the hair into a strange


    black orb. Ricky nodded without hesitation.


    "Yeah, I feel like I have an obligation to find him, get him straight." Ricky confessed, his


    voice heavier than he expected.


    The weight of responsibility pressed down on him as Meyer shook his head slowly, a look of


    concern crossing his face.


    "No, Slick, it''s my fault, I pushed him too hard when you left and then one day, he just


    snapped." Meyer said, walking over to the toilet and sitting on it, pulling out a cigarette.


    "I wanted him to fly higher, but-"


    "Like Icarus, he flew too close to the sun." Ricky sighed as Meyer raised an eyebrow, then


    chuckled, patting Ricky''s shoulder.


    "Long story, funny story, which I''ll tell you later when we go find Jake." Ricky said, waving


    him off. Meyer quickly shot to his feet.


    "You found him?!" Meyer asked, his voice full of shock as Ricky began slowly moving the orb,


    the arrow pointing in an odd direction.


    "Yeah and he''s-........below?"


    20 minutes later,


    Instead of searching the surface, Ricky and Meyer found themselves deep in the sewers, Jake


    hidden beneath the city''s chaotic streets.


    They navigated through the labyrinth of tunnels of the New York sewer system, the stench


    thick in the air as they moved.


    After twisting and turning through narrow passageways, they stumbled into a fully


    functioning underground city, an unexpected, gritty world where the homeless had built their


    own community, thriving in the shadows far from the city above. "Woah, did you know this even existed?" Ricky whispered to Meyer, both of them equally


    stunned by the sight before them.


    "No idea," Meyer replied, shaking his head while Ricky stepped further in, and as he did, the


    eyes of the residents slowly shifted toward him, a mix of curiosity and wariness in their gaze.


    "Ricky Luciano, what a pleasant surprise," a man''s voice called out from the crowd of homeless figures. He emerged from the cluster, his steps confident as he made his way toward Ricky as the latter raised an eyebrow, sizing the man up, his instincts immediately on edge. "Hey..............you." Ricky said smoothly, playing it cool. The man laughed, a dry, knowing


    sound.


    "Don''t worry, Slick. I wouldn''t expect you to know me, seeing as the deal with the high table hasn''t been completed yet." The homeless man gestured for Ricky and Meyer to follow him.


    They walked into a small shack, the walls worn and the air thick with the scent of must.


    At the far end of the room, a rickety desk sat, its surface poorly repaired as the man slid into


    the chair behind it, then gestured for them to sit across from him.


    "Please, would you like some water? Perhaps some tea?" The man offered, his voice smooth


    but laced with a hint of mock politeness and Ricky shook his head, his focus sharp as he kept


    This gaze fixed on the man.


    "No, uh-"


    "Just call me the Bowery King."

 Chapter 117 - 113: A Cold Turkey Reunion

    Chapter 117: Chapter 113: A Cold Turkey Reunion


    "Then I guess you can also call me the Black Knight." Ricky gave him a weird look, prompting the Bowery King to laugh heartily at his words.


    "Although it is true the Bowery King isn''t my name at my point of birth, it is who I became, who I am." The Bowery King smiled at Ricky, showing that person he was before isn''t who he is.


    "Then are you also a homeless guy as well?" Ricky asked, looking at his shabby and barely modest clothing.


    "I am indeed." the Bowery King replied with a smile, choosing not to delve into the reasons behind his homelessness but affirming the truth of it nonetheless.


    "You''re about to go on a tangent, aren''t you-" Ricky began, only to catch a familiar smile before being comedically interrupted by the Bowery King.


    "You see, throughout humanity and its reign there has always been those at the top, those with immense wealth and power." The Bowery King gestured towards Ricky, humoring his ego before turning the conversation back around.


    "And with those at the top, there have always been those scraping by at the bottom." The Bowery King then gestured to himself, Meyer sitting at the side as if he wasn''t relevant in the least.


    "So, does the Bowery King weaponize homeless people or something?" Ricky jumped to his own conclusion, prompting the Bowery King to erupt into hearty laughter.


    "No, no, no. Not weapons." The Bowery King said with a shake of his head, reaching over to gently stroke his pigeon.


    "Weapons fight battles, my people win wars." The Bowery King untied a message from the bird''s claw, then looked at Ricky with a knowing smile.


    "They''re eyes in every alley, ears in every shadow. Appendages that do not fight, but inform. You''d be surprised how much power lies in what most would discard as worthless." The Bowery King extended the message to Ricky, who took it without hesitation.


    A pulse of green energy flared in Ricky''s eyes as he read the message, his nonchalant and arrogant smirk fading slowly while his expression hardened, and he turned to the homeless man with a serious look.


    "What is it, Slick?" Meyer whispered uneasily, his skin crawling at Ricky''s sudden change in demeanor, his gaze fixed warily on the Bowery King.


    "It''s a token of my gratitude, for taking care of Xarus all those years ago." The Bowery King gestured toward the paper Ricky clenched tightly in his hand.


    "When he arrived in Manhattan, it wasn''t just your friends he killed indiscriminately, but my eyes and ears as well." The Bowery King''s expression darkened, his tone solemn as he recalled finding the bodies only after Xarus had succumbed to Ricky.


    "This is my thank you." The Bowery King gestured, his gaze steady as Ricky locked eyes with him, slowly unrolling the paper in his hand.


    On that note, the paper contained the names of the closest confidants of each head of the mob families within the tri-state area.


    The only problem was, Ricky had only told one person, yet somehow they not only managed to get him the information, but had already deduced exactly what he wanted.


    "And by no means are there any ears and eyes within your family''s compound, I can see how that may come across, I apologize." The Bowery King realized who resided within the compound and quickly informed.


    "Then how the f*ck did you get your dirty ass hands on information that my pops would never let slip?" Ricky waved the note around, his distrust clear as the Bowery King simply nodded, his expression calm.


    "Because of the chain of command." The Bowery King explained, only for Ricky to roll his eyes, irritated by the delay as he wanted the point, not a drawn-out explanation.


    "You see, Slick, may I call you Ricky?" The Bowery King asked smoothly, only for Ricky to burst out laughing.


    "F*ck no." Ricky shot back, chuckling since even Lucky didn''t call him Ricky, and that wasn''t about to start here.


    "Then, Slick, orders are given at the top, but they''re trickled down to those they command, delegated." The Bowery King explained, gesturing with his hands in a watering motion, as if illustrating how information trickles down the chain.


    "However, within those orders, when they''re being processed, there''s often a slip of the tongue in the passing alley." The Bowery King then nodded toward his lovely pigeon.


    "And the reason you got it so fast was because of that rat-with-wings pigeon, right?" Ricky asked, smirking, knowing full well that pigeons were basically the rats of the bird species.


    "You''d be amazed at what these amazing creatures can do."


    "Trained birds, disregarded for their species, while secretly carrying notes; no telephone wires to tap, no operators listening in. They''re fast, reliable, and most importantly, untouchable. A telegram might get intercepted. A pigeon? It''s just another bird in the sky." The Bowery King spoke with enthusiasm, as if he were trying to sell Ricky on the timeshare that was these birds.


    "Uh-huh, looking past this as your consideration and not the clear spying, what''s to stop you from telling the other families or even the High Table?" Ricky asked, his tone skeptical. He didn''t know much, but he knew this guy had to answer to them.


    "It is true that I am an adjutant to The High Table, bound by their rules, but I operate independently." The Bowery King began, aware that his allegiance was sworn to the High Table.


    "I do not have to disclose things unless they need to be disclosed. This is not the latter." The Bowery King smiled, and Ricky leaned in, his expression serious as he gazed at him.


    "Then Bowery King, do you know why we''re here-"


    "Looking for your friend and your little brother, Jake Lankey, also sorry for interrupting you I know its-"


    "Kind of annoying?" Ricky finished, a smirk creeping onto his face as the Bowery King laughed, clearly enjoying the taste of his own medicine.


    "Very."


    "Anyways, give him to us." Ricky gestured with a ''gimme'' motion, getting straight to the point, unlike the man before him.


    "Of course." The Bowery King shrugged, gesturing to one of his men, who nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Really, it''s that simple?" Ricky asked, looking at Meyer, who shrugged in return. Ricky then turned back to the Bowery King, who chuckled.


    "I''m a lot of things, but I''m not someone who can take on someone like you, much less Dracula." The Bowery King smirked at Ricky, raised his eyes while making a mental note of their information gathering skills.


    "Dracula?" Meyer asked, confused, not understanding why he even brought that up. Just then, a figure was escorted in, drawing everyone''s attention.


    "Jake stabbed one of my guys while in a drug-induced craze; an ear, replaceable, but still one of mine," the Bowery King explained, carefully clarifying why Jake was even here in the first place, mindful not to provoke any unwanted wrath.


    "I was going to go through the proper procedures until I realized who he was, then decided to take him in momentarily and house him before sending him back," the Bowery King explained, his voice tinged with frustration as he knew some things had to be let go for the greater benefit.


    "The man was a mess, like a rabid animal. So, I took him in until he was clean, then sent him back or until you came looking for him as you are right now." The Bowery King instructed though Ricky wasn''t amused.


    "And I take it you''re just some generous soul?" Ricky asked, already knowing full well that this guy wasn''t driven by kindness.


    "Of course not. I simply want to make a favorable impression on a future pillar of a rising crime family," the Bowery King said shamelessly and Ricky nodded, leaning back while feeling a tad bit better when talking with him.


    "Well then, I''ll keep you in my good graces." Ricky shrugged, standing up as the Bowery King did the same.


    "Hey, Bowery King, you want a piece of advice?" Ricky suddenly pulled the man in closer, though his ears were always open to advice.


    "New York''s gonna get messy soon. You should start pulling your guys underground, since fights sometimes involve outside ears." Ricky gave the warning, feeling like he owed the man, who had already guessed what was about to happen.


    "Thank you, really." The Bowery King nodded, understanding the difficulty of territorial fights and knowing how it was always his guys, the homeless, who were affected the most by accidental casualties.


    "See you around, Bowery King."


    "Oh, I''m sure this won''t be the last time we meet."


    30 minutes later,


    It was then that a hollow figure slowly stepped back into his dwelling. His body seemed a mere shell of what it once was.


    Thin and gaunt, the flesh clung to his bones in a way that made it clear the past three years had been unforgiving.


    His face, once sharp and defined, was now sunken, with dark circles etched deep beneath his eyes, as if sleep had become a distant memory.


    His movements were slow, deliberate, each step a struggle against the weight of his own body.


    The remnants of a once-muscular frame sagged beneath tattered clothes, the signs of neglect and constant drug use evident in the way his shoulders hunched and his spine curved.


    His hands trembled, twitching with nervous energy, fingers stiffened from both withdrawal and the toll drugs had taken on his nervous system.


    His skin had lost its natural color, taking on a sickly pallor, dotted with sores and the occasional bruise, as though he hadn''t cared for himself in years.


    There was a vacantness in his eyes, an emptiness that only came from being consumed by addiction; no longer the sharp, focused gaze of a man with purpose, but a lost stare that seemed to be seeing right through everything.


    He had aged beyond his years, his spirit fractured by the unrelenting cycle of highs and crashes, each one taking more than the last.


    This was now Jake Lankey.


    "Thanks for helping me clean up after the place," Meyer said, attempting a weak smile at Ricky, though his heart ached as he looked at his hollowed-out brother.


    Ricky was almost choked up, out of breath, and shocked to his core by what Jake had become as even from Meyer''s reaction, seeing him three months ago, it was even worse than he had feared.


    "Listen, I know you''ve already done so much, but if you could stay with him for a while since the bank has some-"


    "Don''t worry, Meyer. I''ll take over from here," Ricky interrupted, nodding to Meyer as her managed a small, appreciative smile before leaving the partially cleaned house.


    The door shut behind Meyer, and Ricky was left alone with Jake, who collapsed onto his rotted bed, wrapped in a tattered blanket.


    Slowly, Jake''s eyes flickered open, and he weakly lifted his gaze, looking up at Ricky.


    "You''re back," Jake rasped, his voice dry and cracked, his gaze hollow as each breath he took was loud and drawn out, as if every inhale was a struggle.


    "Yeah." Ricky frowned, his fists clenching, nearly shaking with anger at how much of a piece of sh*t he felt like for allowing Jake, once so determined and eager, to fall into this pit.


    He knew that coming back wasn''t just about proving he could be better; it was about showing he could be someone others could depend on, someone who didn''t need to use others as a crutch.


    With his face set in determination, Ricky pulled out a senzu bean and walked over to Jake as he extended the bean, his gaze unwavering, as if offering not just the healing power, but a chance for redemption.


    Slap


    "Just stop it, whatever you''re trying to fix it''s already broken." Jake swatted Ricky''s hand away, pushing him back as Ricky held the bean to him.


    "I know it''s been a while but listen Jake, this bean can help-"


    "HELP, AFTER WHAT YOU DID TO ME!" Jake scratched out a yell, pushing Ricky back as the latter didn''t even budge at the weak strength.


    "LOOK AT ME, F*CKING LOOK AT ME!" Jake grabbed his rotted clothes, easily tearing them away as Ricky let out a small cold breath.


    They were everywhere. Needle pricks traced every inch of his body, a map of desperation and decay.


    His arms, legs, neck; no part of him had escaped the relentless assault of his addiction.


    The skin was poked with tiny, healed-over scars, some fresh, others old, but all telling the same story of slow self-destruction.


    "You think I don''t know why you''re here, why you came to get me." Jake hissed, wobbling up and limping towards the side as Ricky followed his walk.


    "You probably think you could just come here with some stupid magic remedy and everything would go back to normal." Jake then stopped in front of a shattered mirror, seeing the cracked reflection of himself that made him saddened to his very core.


    Sniff


    "Hic*


    "That I could go back to being normal." Jake slowly traced his hand on the mirror, until his eyes lit up in a fierce rage.


    "THIS ISN''T SOME FAIRY TALE!" Jake, hateful at what Ricky looked like in the mirror as he had become a better man yet he had spiraled into this monster made his stomach churn.


    BAM


    Jake wanted Ricky to feel that churning weight, to experience the chaos of his own despair.


    With a twisted, hollow laugh, he slammed his bony fist into the jagged mirror, the sharp edges cutting into his knuckles.


    Blood splattered from the glass, spraying across the wall in thin, streaking lines as the sound of cracking glass and the sting of his own self-inflicted wound seemed to echo in the room, amplifying the tension between them.


    "Jesus christ Jake-" Ricky walked over to him only for Jake to start throwing stuff at him.


    "AND WHAT, AFTER RETURNING HOME LIKE SOME PRINCE, LIKE SOME CHANGED MAN, YOU WANT TO SAVE YOUR LITTLE COURT JESTER? WELL, I''M DONE!" Jake''s voice cracked, a volatile mix of rage and despair pouring out in ragged breaths.


    He weakly pushed Ricky away, his bony hand slapping against Ricky''s chest, but the force was almost nonexistent, like a broken man desperately trying to assert some kind of control over the ruins of his life


    Ricky fell silent, the weight of Jake''s words pressing down on him like a physical force.


    Ricky knew those accusations weren''t entirely true, he hadn''t come back to solely save Jake, but he didn''t correct him.


    There was no point.


    The anger in Jake''s voice, the raw, guttural pain behind every word, stung too deeply to argue against and Ricky accepted the blame in silence, the familiar guilt gnawing at him as his eyes lowered, unable to meet Jake''s.


    Maybe he had failed Jake, maybe he had failed everyone he ever cared about.


    Ricky knew he wasn''t a prince, sometimes he thought he wasn''t changed, and most of the time he felt like any other man, scrambling for a way to fix the mess he''d created.


    But that didn''t mean Ricky was going to let this problem fester like he had in the past and this time, Ricky wasn''t going to run away from Jake''s issues like he did before.


    He was going to be there for the person he had once called a friend, for the person who had once stood by him and he wasn''t going to make the same mistake again.


    "YOU HAVE NO RIGHT-" Jake''s voice broke, his strength fading as he sank back to the ground and Ricky could only watch, heartbroken.


    Sniff


    Hic


    "You just have no right." Jake hit his head on the floor, completely defeated as Ricky lowered his hand and started healing Jake''s wound.


    "Listen Jake, I know, but even if you hate me, I''m still going to help you, really help you." Ricky said firmly as Jake laughed bitterly and turned away.


    "All you ever do is help yourself-"


    Dink


    Jake slammed into an invisible wall, recoiling with a sharp gasp as he glared at Ricky, his fiery eyes burning with anger and confusion, as if trying to will him into backing down.


    But Ricky stood his ground, unwavering, his hand clutching the senzu bean tightly, like a lifeline.


    "Let me out of here, Ricky. This isn''t funny." Jake pounded on the barrier, his fists hitting the wall with diminishing force.


    Ricky clenched the senzu bean, knowing it would help Jake physically but that the addiction of the mind was a far more insidious challenge.


    Ricky had seen many struggle with addiction in his past life, their minds convincing them to stay in this horrid state, and he understood that overcoming it required more than just a physical remedy.


    "He needs to feel what cold turkey is like." Ricky whispered, steeling himself for the grueling night ahead as he knew it wouldn''t be easy, nothing about this was.


    But it was the only way Ricky knew that could break the cycle, to force Jake to confront the depth of his addiction.


    BAM


    "LET ME OUT RIGHT NOW, RICKY!" Jake''s scream echoed through the room, his eyes bloodshot and wild as he glared at Ricky, each word laced with raw desperation, an attempt to strike at the guilt Ricky carried.


    "No."


    "W-What do you mean, no?" Jake almost laughed out, thinking it hysterical Ricky was trying to order him like in the days of old.


    "I mean that I''m going to help you, like I said," Ricky replied, his gaze unwavering as he met Jake''s desperate, bloodshot eyes.


    "But for that to happen, you''re going cold turkey." Ricky''s words made Jake''s anger facade shatter as the desperate side of him manifested.


    "Y-You can''t do this, not after what you did-"


    "I''m doing this because of what I did to you and because of that, I need to say something I should''ve said to you a long time ago." Ricky pulled up a chair, sitting down then looking at Jake with a sincere expression.


    "I''m sorry, Jake." Ricky''s voice cracked with genuine remorse as Jake''s lips trembled, shaking his head in denial.


    "Shut up-"


    "We were supposed to be friends, and I treated you like nothing more than my employee, like a servant." Ricky spoke the lines he always wanted to say to Jake when he was away, remembering how he treated Jake as nothing more than a paperwork machine.


    Taking advantage of Jake''s need to prove himself and delegating all the things he was supposed to do to him.


    "Stop-"


    "And when Rocco and Eddy died, I ignored the fact that they were your friends too, putting my own feelings above yours like I always did, making it about me." Ricky patted his chest, sighing a bit while letting it all out.


    "SHUT UP, RICKY-"


    "And I know I''m a selfish asshole, I know that we all profit off the cruelness that is this underbelly, but you didn''t deserve the way I treated you, even if we are mobsters." Ricky''s voice broke, and Jake sank to the floor, tears streaming down his face.


    Sniff


    Sniff


    "I-It''s all your fault. You and Meyer pushed me too hard," Jake sobbed, banging his head against the invisible wall.


    "I couldn''t handle the pressure and YOU F*CKING BROKE ME!" Jake slammed his head on the invincible barrier, his rage spiking at all those long nights.


    All those long nights he bled for, sacrificed for, and the only applause he ever got were half-hearted charges, whispers of disappointment that cut deeper than any wound.


    Each drop of sweat, each ounce of effort, all for nothing but hollow critiques.


    It was the same endless cycle; he gave everything, only to be told it wasn''t enough, that he could''ve done better.


    The anger burned in him, raw and unrelenting, a fire fed by the realization that no matter how hard he tried, it was never going to be enough.


    But even then Jake pushed forward, burning himself to his very limit for the people he thought cared about him.


    "YOU STARTED ALL OF THIS, AND THAT DAMNED COCAINE, YOU RUINED ME!" Jake''s mood shifted abruptly, yelling at Ricky while shifting the blame towards him as he pulled up his sleeves to reveal his ravaged arms once more.


    "LOOK AT THIS, LOOK AT WHAT I''VE BECOME, A SHELL, RICKY, A F*CKING SHELL!" Jake''s outburst was raw and devastating as he collapsed back to the floor, his anger dissipating into despair.


    "So just one fix, to tie me up and-"


    "No." Ricky''s hands were clenched tightly, his body shaking with the effort of holding back his own emotions.


    "PLEASE, JUST A LITTLE FIX YOU OWE ME THAT MUCH, FOR EVERYTHING!" Jake screamed, desperation and anguish twisting his voice.


    Jake was relentless, berating Ricky with a tirade of hateful words about everything that had happened to him and all the pain that he had endured because of him.


    However Ricky closed his eyes, tapping his foot as he fought to maintain his resolve.


    Every plea from Jake was like a knife to his heart, knowing he was inflicting a form of torture that was both necessary and painful.


    This was a trial not just for Jake, but for Ricky as well as it was his actions that had driven Jake to this point, and now he had to face the consequences.


    Finally Jake became breathless, resting on the invisible barrier encasing him as he looked up at the ceiling.


    "You''re right, I do owe you, but I don''t owe your f*cking addiction." Ricky''s voice was steady but laced with sorrow, looking at the hollow husk before him.


    "I always owe you more than you can imagine, Jake. But giving in to your addiction isn''t going to help you. It''s going to drag you further down into this hole." Ricky gestured towards Jake''s own arms, the proof almost inscribed on his body


    "YOU DON''T GET IT! I''M DYING IN HERE! EVERY SECOND FEELS LIKE A YEAR!" Jake''s anger flared again, his fists pounding against the invisible barrier.


    "JUST ONE, PLEASE JUST ONE!" Jake spat out his ragged plea, his hand sliding down as he pressed his face against the barrier to make himself look more pitiful.


    "I know it''s hard, I know you''re in pain, but this is the only way to break free from the cycle. You need to face it head-on. You need to fight through this if you''re going to get better." Ricky''s eyes were open now, locking onto Jake''s pleading gaze.


    Ricky knew all too well what it was like to go cold turkey as his memories of the past were hazy, fragmented like shards of glass scattered across time.


    Even in this life, as more days passed, it became harder to look back and piece things together.


    But there were moments that still burned in his mind, ones that should''ve been lost to the fog of his past, but they were seared into his memory, nonetheless.


    One such moment was when he had been addicted to angel dust since it was a brief but ugly Chapter in his life, one he''d rather forget, but couldn''t.


    The only reason he had saved Jessica that day was because he had been desperate for a fix.


    His mind, clouded by the drug, had barely registered what he was doing until he was knee-deep in a fight with those bikers.


    When he beat them senseless, they blacklisted him, making it impossible for him to get his supply.


    That was the moment that forced him to get clean but rather, he had no choice and the withdrawal was brutal.


    The first few days felt like his body was slowly being shredded from the inside out.


    It wasn''t just the shakes, the sweat, or the nausea, it was the relentless cravings that gnawed at him like a beast inside his chest.


    His skin itched and burned as if it was trying to crawl off his bones, every movement felt like dragging lead, every step a monumental effort.


    His thoughts were a jumbled mess, his mind constantly searching for the next high, even as he knew he couldn''t go back.


    The physical pain was bad enough, but the worst part was the mental agony as it was like his mind was betraying him, urging him to break, to give in, to find a way to end the madness.


    Sleep became an elusive dream. When he did manage to close his eyes, nightmares took over.


    Then when he would wake up, it would be drenched in sweat, his heart hammering in his chest as though he had been fighting for his life.


    Every minute without the drug felt like he was suffocating, like he was drowning in his own self-hatred as he wanted to scream, to lash out, to run away from the unbearable emptiness.


    Each moment stretched out forever, like time itself had become a cruel enemy and after Ricky had managed to scrape himself out of that rut, he never wanted to go back which is why he never touched another hard drug after that.


    However, Ricky wasn''t going to let Jake endure the full, brutal process of withdrawal, but he had to make him feel the essence of it but just enough to show him the rawness of what it truly felt like.


    "I can''t-.....I can''t do it. I''m too far gone, Ricky. You don''t understand what it''s like." Jake collapsed against the wall, whining as his shoulders shook while he started sobbing uncontrollably.


    "I can at least try, just talk to me, just tell me how this happened." Ricky''s gaze was locked on Jake, who propped himself up with his back to him, staring blankly ahead.


    "It was after you left-"


    Jake''s Narration:


    The clubs doubled from two to four, and the work just piled up to the point where even sleeping felt like I was falling behind.


    At first, the cocaine was just a way to keep me awake and focused, something to prop me up while I juggled managing the clubs and funneling the money.


    It was supposed to help me keep up with the demands.


    The bank was assisting, but slowly, it just wasn''t enough for Meyer and he needed me to shine more, to prove myself within the family while solidifying myself within the space.


    He ordered me to clean even more money, and overnight, my responsibilities exploded as I went from managing around $50,000 a month to handling $250,000.


    The pressure, that very same I took on to prove myself, just became so suffocating.


    That''s when the insomnia set in.


    I couldn''t sleep, no matter how exhausted I was, having to push myself to the brink just to meet the quotas.


    I mean, the clubs were making money, the family was making money, and my position within the family was rising, I was becoming the next Lankey my brother wanted me to be.


    But that profit, that money, came at my cost.


    Soon, the cocaine wasn''t cutting it anymore, I needed more just to get that same high, that same focus, and my health was crumbling.


    But I pushed through, ignoring the signs until one day, I just snapped at Meyer who was lecturing me, demeaning me.


    I was too worn down, and everything started spinning too fast and my mind couldn''t keep up.


    I stormed out of the club, desperate to escape the relentless whirlwind in my head that just throbbed in my head.


    That''s when I found heroin and that first hit was like a revelation.


    For the first time in months, I felt a semblance of peace and the chaos swirling in my mind quieted, and I slept like I hadn''t in ages.


    It was a temporary escape, but it was enough to pull me in deeper.


    Heroin became my sanctuary and I started neglecting my work, my life, and everyone around me, just to chase that elusive high.


    I knew I was sinking, even now I know, but I don''t care.


    It is easier to drown in this numbness than to face the harsh reality of my situation, go back to what it was before.


    Now, Ricky, you''re here, offering to help me, but I can''t go back.


    I don''t want to.


    I''m too far gone, and I don''t need your help, I don''t want to confront what I''ve become or face the wreckage of my actions.


    I want this, to be trapped in this cycle with no responsibilities or effort, and the idea of breaking free feels so suffocating.


    So please, don''t bother. I''ve made my choice, and I''m sticking with it.


    END


    "I know-.........I know I don''t look too good but I swear I''m fine Ricky-"


    "Dammit Jake, no-"


    "You sell it, distribute it to everyone, but now you feel sorry because one of your ''friends'' uses it? You''re a hypocrite." Jake''s words cut through the air, blunt and unforgiving. It stung, but Ricky couldn''t deny the truth in them as he nodded, unable to argue.


    "I am a filthy, idiotic, hypocritical, alcoholic, and most of all a degenerate." Ricky introduced himself, spreading his arms wide so that Jake could see it all.


    "I know what I am Jake and I won''t sit here, lie to you, and tell you otherwise cause I''m not some white knight in shining armor here to free the world from the sin of drugs." Ricky Explained, before slowly pointing a single finger at him.


    "Just you."


    "I''m hypocritical in the sense that I''d let the whole world suffer, just so the people I care about most don''t have to." Ricky''s voice hardened, his eyes steady on Jake, resolving to pull him out of this pit at all cost.


    "And if you want to hate me for it, then fine. If you never want to see me again after all of it, okay. But at least I''m doing something, even if it''s not what you want to hear." Ricky crossed his arms, showing that there wasn''t any way he could be convinced otherwise.


    "You can hate me all you want when you''re clean and living the life you deserve," Ricky said, his words firm and resolute as he had spoken his truth, and if Jake couldn''t accept it, then that was on him.


    If this was how it ended, Ricky had done everything he could to help Jake get clean.


    If Jake chose to disregard it all and go back to that life, then fine, Ricky would accept it.


    But not like this¡ªnot with Jake trapped under the grip of heroin, his mind clouded and lost as that, this wasn''t the real Jake, and Ricky couldn''t stand to watch him fade away like that.


    BAM


    "You''re trash Ricky, f*cking trash!" Jake egged him on, trying to get a rise out of the big loaf in front of him.


    "Ha, tell me something I don''t know." Ricky laughed, leaning back in the chair, his sleazy smile widening and Jake scoffed, his hollow eyes flashing with a mix of frustration and disbelief.


    "And there it is, classic Ricky."


    "You think you can f*ck everything up, make a joke, fix it, and then expect everyone to just move on like nothing happened?" Jake slammed into the barrier, his body trembling with fury.


    "It''s always the same with you! My life''s just one crash after another, and you act like you can just sweep it all away like it never mattered, like my struggles didn''t matter!" Jake''s voice cracked as he shouted, every word laced with years of frustration.


    "Well I''m not like the others Ricky, I see you for what you are." Jake, from all the years he had known Ricky, saw him for what he truly was right in this moment or at least, what he thought of him from his previous experiences.


    "A joke?" Ricky asked, trying to predict his words as Jake slowly shook his head.


    "A coward." Jake''s words sliced through the air, a cold, sharp accusation that hit Ricky deeper than he expected.


    For a moment, Ricky froze, the weight of the insult sinking in as the word hung in the room like a suffocating cloud, and he could feel his chest tighten, as if Jake had just ripped open old wounds.


    It was then Jake smiled, thinking Ricky was going to walk away or lash out at him then apologize later to make it all better, but he didn''t.


    "Yeah, but I''m trying to be better." Ricky admitted, his voice steady as he gave a genuine nod, surprising even himself.


    For once, he didn''t deflect or push back and he didn''t throw up walls or make excuses, he just owned it.


    Jake, still reeling from his own anger, blinked in confusion as this was different, Ricky wasn''t trying to dominate the conversation, wasn''t shoving blame away.


    For a moment, it was as if the old Ricky he knew had suddenly grown a bit as that old reflection of him seemingly faded, and Jake wasn''t sure how to react.


    "I''m trying to be rooted here, in the moment, rather than running around and leaving only broken pieces in my wake." Ricky''s voice was quieter now, almost reflective, as if he was talking more to himself than to Jake.


    "That''s why I''m going back to pick up the pieces I broke, starting with you."


    1 hour later,


    BLERGH


    Jake''s body shook violently, his hands gripping the sides of the bucket as he expelled the contents of his stomach.


    Sweat soaked his skin, his face pale, and his breath came in ragged gasps as his body was betraying him, every muscle aching as the withdrawal clawed at him.


    He barely registered Ricky sitting across the room, silently flipping through the pages of a dusty, leather-bound diary.


    The world felt like it was spinning, and all Jake could do was focus on the acidic burn in his throat and the tremors that rattled through him.


    The nausea came in waves, and each time it subsided, the relentless craving would come back, aching, gnawing at him.


    He gritted his teeth, trying to hold it together, but the bitter taste of regret clung to his mouth.


    Jake had been here before, and every time he''d thought he''d hit rock bottom, he''d fallen lower and this time didn''t seem different.


    Through it all, Ricky remained quiet as the only sound in the room was the occasional rustle of pages as he read through Dracula''s diary


    Diary Entry: February 12, 1901


    I must admit, after becoming this symbol of a fairy tale is slowly taking its toll. The weight of this mantle grows heavier with each passing day. The grandeur I once sought, the recognition of my power and dominion, now feels like a shroud of relentless pressure.


    In the beginning, the allure of becoming the archetype for all vampires was intoxicating. The promise of immortality and the dominion over both the living and the supernatural was a seductive prospect. Yet, as time has worn on, the reality of this role has revealed itself to be far more burdensome than I ever imagined.


    The expectations that come with being a symbol are immense. I am not merely a creature of the night; I am to embody the very essence of a vampire. Each of my actions is scrutinized, each of my decisions weighed against the grand image I must uphold. The grandeur of my presence is now intertwined with the constant struggle to maintain the mythos that surrounds me.


    My power, once a source of pride, now feels like a prison. The responsibility to be a beacon, to represent the ideal of the vampire, imposes a ceaseless strain on my very essence. The constant balancing act between maintaining the fearsome reputation I have cultivated and the internal turmoil it brings is exhausting. The legends, the tales of my prowess, all weigh heavily on me, creating an incessant pressure to live up to the glorified image that has been crafted.


    Furthermore, the isolation that accompanies such a role is profound. My very nature demands solitude, and the role of the symbol only exacerbates this loneliness. The distance I must maintain from those I once held dear, my family, my loved ones, even my own kind, has left me adrift. The camaraderie and kinship that once brought me solace are now overshadowed by the expectations and the solitary path I must tread.


    The fear I invoke in others is a reflection of the fear I now grapple with within myself. I am trapped in a cycle of proving my worth, of living up to the expectations of a role that I fear I can never truly escape.


    The burden of being a symbol has seeped into my very being, gnawing at the edges of my once unshakable confidence. I am caught between the desire to uphold the legacy I have built and the yearning for the freedom to be something, or someone, more authentic.


    As I pen these words, I tell myself that the tribulations are worth the end goal. Since for all that I''ve suffered at the hands of my actions. Vampire kind has entered an era of peace.


    Although we were once at each other''s throats, vying for the power vacuum always sinking our own growth, it has become clear that someone must stand in the center so that others spread their wings and fly all around.


    I am trapped, I know this. But with this sacrifice I give our race a chance to blossom in which it was never thought possible.


    Dracula


    Closing the book, Ricky let out a slow breath, the weight of Dracula''s words pressing on his chest.


    Ricky hadn''t yet felt the full scope of the mutant community''s power, nor the burden it carried.


    It was a world in constant flux, a world where those who wielded influence were both revered and feared, but also targets.


    Ricky was still in the early stages of this new life, this new path and because he was still learning, still building a foundation.


    The path ahead was clear now, but it required more than just strength, it required more than just physical strength.


    Ricky had gone through all the trials and tribulations to grow his physical power to stand with the most fearsome beings on this planet, but that still wasn''t enough.


    Power came in so many shapes and forms; the political maneuvering, the intricacies of gaining and holding power, they were all part of this endless game.


    If Ricky truly wanted to control this community, to harvest its benefits, and to become the symbol he had always envisioned, he had to prepare for what was coming, the weight of all the responsibility that would come with it.


    In the silence of the room, Ricky''s thoughts turned inward, back to who he was before leaving New York.


    He had grown, yes, but at his core; his desires, his ambitions, had remained unchanged.


    The hunger that had once driven him to the brink of destruction against Xarus, fueling him to go to such lengths to reach that pinnacle never truly subsided.


    Leaving New York had been a temporary pacification, an illusion of control, but now that he was back, that same bubbling hunger that had always been within him had slowly started to creep into his mind.


    Ricky had tasted what power felt like in its purest form, the way others bowed at his very appearance, his very name, and with it, he wanted more.


    No, even that wasn''t enough, he wanted it all.


    To get there, to get everything he wanted, he needed to become a force that could not only withstand but bend the world around him to his will.


    But to do that, he had to be ready for everything: the games, the sacrifices, the betrayals.


    Ricky knew what it took to rise to the top, and now he was willing to do whatever it took to claim what he believed was his.


    To claim what he desired, Ricky knew that sacrifices would be made, the common person being one of them.


    The realization didn''t bother him in the slightest and in fact, it was almost expected at this point.


    Ricky had come to learn that power wasn''t given; it was taken, and in the pursuit of it, casualties were inevitable.


    There was no room for the considerations of bystanders, no room for hesitation in this game.


    Yet even so, priorities needed to be made and considerations followed which is why all of that was all on hold for now, his mind distracted by the bitter, hate-filled gaze that Jake shot at him.


    Jake''s eyes, bloodshot and dull, fixed on Ricky with an intensity that could have burned through steel.


    Despite the weakness in his body, despite the shakes and nausea coursing through him, Jake found the strength to hate Ricky, as if that hatred was all that remained of who he once was.


    They were about to embark on a journey together, a journey that would drag Jake through the raw, painful reality of his addiction and Ricky could see it in his eyes, the first stage of what was to come.


    Ricky knew all too well where Jake was right now since he himself had gone through all five stages including; denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance.


    But right now, at this very moment, they were on the cusp of the stage that had haunted Jake for the last three years as the addict, broken and battered, had once again finally settled into the first stage, Denial.


    Denial:


    "How many times do I have to f*cking tell you Ricky, I''m not the problem, I''m fine!" Jake laughed bitterly, his eyes wide with disbelief, as if he couldn''t comprehend why Ricky couldn''t see it.


    "Jake you''re an addict, an addict-"


    "I''M NOT-"


    Sigh


    "Ricky, I''m not addicted! If you even cared to be here the last three years, you would know. But no, you''ve been too busy getting your dick wet to notice," Jake spat, his words slicing into Ricky who nodded slowly, acknowledging the truth in Jake''s scorn.


    Jake continued, desperately clinging to his denial, trying to convince Ricky that he didn''t have a problem.


    Jake repeated his defenses over and over, seemingly memorizing them, even as the truth was right in front of him: his body was a shell of its former self, skinnier than the skeletal figures Ricky summoned in his darker moments.


    But Jake couldn''t see it, not yet as he was too deep into his own lie to see the real truth of this matter.


    As the minutes ticked by, that denial began to erode, replaced by confusion, frustration, and a growing rage.


    The pressure inside Jake built until it exploded as his breath hitched, his eyes darkened, and suddenly, without warning, he lunged at Ricky, fists flying and only contained by the invisible barrier around him.


    Anger:


    "YOU FCKING BASTARD, FCK YOU, FCK MEYER, FCK LUCKY, F*CK ALL THE LUCIANO FAMILY, JUST DIE, DIE, DIE!" Jake roared, his rage palpable as he slammed his head and fist into the barrier before him.


    "I HATE YOU, I''LL ALWAYS HATE YOU, WHY WON''T YOU LET ME LEAVE SO I CAN CONTINUE TO HATE YOU, DAMMIT!" Jake wobbled to his feat, his crazed eyes gleaming while looking towards the quiet Ricky.


    "You don''t get it, do you? You think you can just waltz back in, pretend everything''s fine, and I''m supposed to go along with it? You think you can make me forget all the sh*t I''ve gone through?!" Jake laughed out, seeing the humor in it all while acting as if Ricky was one big joke.


    "You don''t get to walk in and fix everything with your little sob story, you made me this way! You let me rot in this hellhole! So don''t stand there like you''re the goddamn hero!" Jake''s anger resounded, spitting on the invincible barrier while looking towards him.


    "JUST DIE, DIE ALREADY! YOU AREN''T A HERO AND YOU NEVER WILL BE, NOT AFTER EVERYTHING YOU''VE DONE. DAMMIT, I HATE YOU! I F*CKING HATE YOU!" Jake hurled himself at the barrier one more time, his fists colliding with it again.


    Jake collapsed to the floor, his head dropping into his hands as the tears mixed with the sweat and dirt on his face.


    His body trembled with the aftershocks of his rage, and his sobs were desperate and raw, the anger fading into something deeper, something even more painful.


    Bargaining:


    "Please Ricky, please~" Jake whined, propped up against the barrier with his hand firmly pressed on it as if he was reaching out his hand.


    "Just one tiny fix, to wean me off." Jake cried out, his voice audibly shaking as the cravings took hold, making him all but desperate.


    "I-I''ll do anything man, please~" Jake let out tears, sliding down the barrier while hitting his head on the floor.


    "I''m sorry about all the things I said, you''re a good guy who''s trying to help your friend, this friend." Jake then looked up, showing a rare smile as he looked at the quiet Ricky.


    "So please, help your friend with a tiny fix, just this once." Jake held out his hands, desperate for literally anything but Ricky was firm in his silence.


    "F-Fine, how about this look!" Jake then threw away that notion and started fumbling around his person, pulling out his watch.


    "This is my dad''s. He gave it to me before he passed. It''s worth something, right? You can have it!" Jake tossed the watch onto the floor, then immediately went for something else, digging into his pants.


    "Fine that''s not enough, fair-ah, and this! This is my golden money clip. The one you gave me, remember? I''ve kept it all this time. It''s yours, just please, Ricky. Please." Jake held out the two most valuable things towards Ricky, hoping that he would at least humor him.


    But Ricky didn''t respond, he didn''t even look at the items, his expression unchanging.


    The silence between them grew thick, suffocating, as Ricky''s eyes remained locked on Jake, his resolve still steadfast, unmoving.


    Jake''s hands quivered, the tears still streaking down his face, his chest hitching with broken sobs.


    The bargains, the apologies, the pleadings, they all hung in the air, meaningless to the man standing on the other side.


    "I can''t-"


    Sniff


    "I can''t take it anymore. Just one more hit, and I''ll stop, I swear. You don''t know what it''s like to need it, to feel it crawling under your skin, eating at your insides. Please, I''ll do anything. Just this one last time." Jake pleaded with every emotion he had bottled up, pouring them all out but Ricky simply looked at him with a resounding gaze.


    "No."


    Depression:


    The shift from bargaining to depression came like the slow, inevitable fall of a stone into still water.


    Jake didn''t even fight it, his body crumpling in on itself, defeated, and his eyes, once filled with fiery rage or desperate hope, now seemed empty, dull.


    He didn''t move, didn''t speak for what felt like hours, as the weight of everything that had been said, everything he had been running from, crashed over him all at once.


    He let go of the watch and the money clip, the last things he had clung to, dropping them onto the floor like discarded memories.


    His hands, which had trembled with the need for the drug, now lay limp at his sides, lifeless.


    His eyes stared blankly at the wall in front of him, but he wasn''t really seeing it as he wasn''t seeing anything.


    "I can''t-"


    "I can''t do this anymore Ricky, I don''t know how or if I even want to anymore." Jake was at a loss, poorly trying to explain the feeling so clearly heard by Ricky.


    "I''m nothing." Jake spat out, looking up at the ceiling while recollecting everything he ever was and has been.


    "All I ever wanted to be was to be someone, someone my family could be proud of, someone like my brother that others could depend on." Jake''s eyes watered, sniffling while grabbing his heart.


    "I wanted to great, I wanted to sour into the sky like a bird while revealing in the warmth of the sun-.......but I just burned, I f*cking burned." Jake reached out his hand, the light reflecting all across his fingers before clenching them tightly.


    "I fell and now I''m drowning." Jake''s hand slowly fell to the ground, closing his eyes as he wished this pitiful life of his would just end right here.


    "I''m stuck in this hole and the only way forward is down, further into this depth, and no matter how hard I struggle to pull myself up, I just fail to reach the surface. Every. Single. Time." Jake''s words really made Ricky listen, really hearing what it was Jake was going through.


    "I am not a fighter and I''m tired of pretending that I am, tired of pretending that I am anything more than this sinking figure since no matter what I do, I can never keep my head above water." Jake then turned his defeated eyes back to Ricky, looking at someone who seemingly flew in the skies as if it was his right by birth.


    In a way, Jake had always been jealous of how Ricky could have everything and never appreciate the things he always yearned for.


    The admiration that didn''t come from his success, but from his failures.


    When he could find people who would pull him up at his lowest points and be that backing he needed to move forward.


    How Ricky was the center of it all, how the spotlight, how the sun shined down onto him in ways it never could for Jake.


    "What do I do Ricky, what would you do?"


    Acceptance:


    Lying flat on the ground, Jake sniffled as he stared up at the ceiling, his eyes vacant and distant and slowly, Ricky''s figure came into view, holding a single bean in his hand.


    "I ran away for a long time Jake, like you''re doing right now." Ricky really beared himself to Jake, about to tell him what to do and it was going to be up to Jake whether or not he listened.


    "People think that you can just pick yourself up the first time and just keep moving forward, but those people can shove it." Ricky honestly said, knowing how many times he had fallen just fall once again.


    "But living isn''t just about how you move forward, it''s living with yourself, your choices, and all the sh*t you end up making in the process." Ricky then extended the bean, placing it right next to Jake.


    "I just can''t live with you not being my friend, Jake." Ricky put his hands in his pocket, backing up slightly while releasing the barrier.


    "I want to make things right, to go back to how things were before, but I know it doesn''t work like that." Ricky said, his voice heavy with frustration but beared with it.


    "I''m not gonna force you to live your life Jake, not anymore." Ricky paused, looking down as a wave of doubt washed over him.


    Ricky wanted so badly to push Jake to get better, to make him snap out of it, but he knew deep down that it couldn''t work like that and Jake had to want it for himself.


    "But if you want to get your life back on track, if you want to stand up and try again, take this bean and come see me tomorrow morning." Ricky let out a small laugh, wiping his nose before looking towards the door.


    "Because things are going to be different from now on, I promise." Ricky''s voice was steady as he gave Jake those final words, then backed away, heading toward the door as Jake wiped his eyes, the weight of Ricky''s words hanging in the air.


    "Why did you come back, Slick?" Jake finally used the nickname as Ricky sighed, scratching his head.


    "I just didn''t want to run away anymore." Ricky admitted, his voice low as he turned to face the door.


    "I hope I see you tomorrow."


    Stepping onto the street, Ricky pulled out his flask and took a swig, the cool burn of the liquor briefly settling his nerves as he sat on the corner of the block, chuckling softly to himself.


    Ricky''s senses, honed through relentless training with Alexander and Rachael, were sharp, so sharp, in fact, that he could feel the slightest shift in the air, the faintest hitch in someone''s breath nearby.


    Anyone dumb enough not to conceal themselves was an open book to him.


    It was why Ricky turned his gaze to the shadows, a flash of movement catching his eye.


    A low, familiar chuckle echoed from the dark corner, and a figure slowly emerged. Ricky''s lips curled into a wry smile.


    "Slick." Joe then walked out, revealing himself before Ricky in all his past glory with a warm and inviting greeting.


    "Bananas." Ricky grinned, knowing exactly how much Joe hated that nickname.


    Joe''s smile faltered, freezing on his face as his eyes immediately turned cold, a silent warning flickering in them.


    "I see you grew some hair on your balls, good for you." Joe''s warm tone vanished in an instant, his eyes conveying an intense tide of hate while his smile still remained.


    "Well, your mother prefers them hairy," Ricky chuckled, watching as Joe tensed, visibly holding himself back from reaching for his gun.


    "Let me guess, is this some warning?" Ricky asked as Joe pulled out a cigarette and lit it up.


    But Joe didn''t respond, instead taking a slow puff and sizing up Ricky, who stood there completely devoid of fear.


    ''This might be annoying,'' Joe thought, irritated by how different Ricky was now compared to the last time they crossed paths. It bothered him more than he cared to admit.


    "Listen Slick, I know you''re not one to drag things like this out, so I''ll make this brief, leave." Joe looked at Ricky, pointing his cigarette at him since things were going as planned and him being here would only ruin it.


    "You might''ve gotten a little stronger-"


    "Sure, I''ll leave." Ricky took a swig of his flask, interrupting Joe, who was taken aback as the words hung in the air for a moment as Ricky''s nonchalance seemed to throw Joe off balance.


    "What?"


    "I am leaving, soon, heading down to Texas." Ricky confessed to Joe, who was surprised by the admission before his expression shifted to one of weariness.


    "But you just got back, what''s the rush?" Joe asked, unconvinced as he squinted his eyes since his words reeked of something he couldn''t quite put a finger on.


    "To say hello to my pops. I mean, no offense, but why would I want to come back to a place that doesn''t want me?" Ricky laughed cynically, turning away as Joe frowned at the bitterness in his words.


    "Nah, I''m going to carve out my own place. Probably LA," Ricky added, lying through his teeth as Joe stood there, contempt lining his face.


    "But first I gotta go down and really make good on a promise I made a while back." Ricky pocketed the flask while standing up, walking right in front of Joe and gazing down at him.


    "But let me make this clear, since I feel like you''ve got some idea about me, I''m not afraid of you, I mean how could I?" Ricky looked down at Joe, towering over him as Joe met his gaze.


    "Look at you, I mean, you''re as skinny as a f*cking plank of wood." Ricky slightly pushed Joe, smirking as he saw his face bubble with rage.


    "And listen, just ''cause I''m leaving, doesn''t mean I won''t crack a few skulls while I''m still here, kapesh?" Ricky poked Joe lightly, who laughed, wiping the spot Ricky touched before turning his back.


    "Then have fun."


    Joe didn''t believe Ricky for a second, but he couldn''t say anything, not without risking further antagonizing him.


    They both knew the situation wasn''t as simple as it appeared, any action would only cause greater grief for both of them.


    Ricky could easily murder Joe, leave him a pile of mush, make him disappear, but the sudden power vacuum that followed would trigger an all-out war in the underworld, and worse, draw the government''s intervention.


    Arriving at a payphone, Joe dialed for a while, his fingers moving quickly across the buttons. Ricky stood atop a nearby building, his eyes locked on Joe below.


    From his vantage point, he could almost make out the words muttered from Joe''s lips, but the wind and distance blurred them.


    Still, the tension in the air was palpable, and Ricky couldn''t help but wonder who Joe was calling, and why.


    "He''s back," Joe muttered into the payphone, his voice low and grim. There was no response from the other end, just a heavy silence.


    After a beat, he slammed the receiver down and turned away, walking off without a glance back as the weight of his words lingered in the air, unanswered and unresolved.


    Soon after, Ricky strolled over to the payphone, his fingers steady as he dialed the same numbers Joe had just used.


    He waited in silence, the faint clicking of the line ringing in his ear until the phone finally picked up.


    "Were my words three seconds ago not a clear indication to never use this line again." The voice gruffed out in an unpleasant tone as Ricky adjusted his throat.


    "I forgot to mention one thing." Ricky said, his voice effortlessly mimicking Joe''s through his voice manipulation ability, a skill he had perfected under the haul of innate skills gained from Agatha.


    His tone was perfect as he spoke, the rhythm and cadence indistinguishable from Joe''s.


    "My guys have picked up on him about to create a stir in LA." Ricky leaned casually on the booth, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips as he spoke, his eyes scanning the surroundings.


    He wondered who this mysterious man was, but kept the thought to himself, unwilling to give anything away that might blow his cover.


    "And."


    "And I''m not going to tell you another detail unless I''m given some assurance," Ricky added smoothly, his voice low and controlled.


    There was a long silence on the other end of the line, stretching out before the man finally responded.


    "In matters relating to the Luciano family, their territories, and assets, I will relent to anything seized from them." The man on the other side offered, his tone reluctant but clear.


    Ricky scoffed at the proposal, a small, dismissive chuckle escaping his lips as he had expected this, an offer of surrender that was probably already on the table.


    "Listen, I am no fool, I know that the second I take out the Luciano family the others-"


    "My assurance is that it will be yours. Now, tell me about Ricky Luciano''s movements." The voice was firm, almost impatient and Ricky nodded as he leaned against the phone booth, a small smirk playing on his lips as he had to be careful not to reveal too much btu just enough to make it seem reasonable.


    "The word is he wants to take over the underground in LA through boxing. Back then, he was looking for someone, but we exiled him before he could really get into it." Ricky paused, letting the words sink in, knowing full well that a half-truth would be enough to keep them satisfied for now.


    "I''m told that he''s looking for talent to streamline all his dirty money through the events, then use that to access Hollywood-"


    "Criminals and mutants, that''s all I asked for, not his hobbies." The man clarified, his voice tinged with irritation.


    Ricky''s smile widened, enjoying the subtle irritation he was causing as he could sense it in the man''s tone, the growing frustration every time he spoke of him.


    "Drugs, he''s going to restart his drug smuggling but more aggressive."


    "His mutant activities, tell me."


    "Do I look like the type to hang around freaks? I don''t have any information on them," Ricky played his part smoothly, his tone casual and dismissive.


    The silence on the other end lingered, the tension thick as the man absorbed the words, his quiet presence felt even through the phone.


    Click


    The phone clicked dead as Ricky hung it up, the echo of the call fading into the still night.


    With a wide grin stretching across his face, he stepped away from the booth, his footsteps echoing against the empty streets.


    "I can already tell, this is gonna be fun."

 Chapter 118 - 114: Plans for the future Part 2

    Chapter 118: Chapter 114: Plans for the future Part 2


    Later that night,


    Arriving at the house, he was greeted by complete darkness and as he stepped inside, he peeked into Danielle''s room before quietly shutting the door.


    In the shadowy, narrow mansion, one light stood out, a faint glow emanating from Lucky''s office as he made his way toward it and opened the door.


    "You''ve been busy." Lucky''s voice was calm as he poured himself a glass of bourbon as he didn''t look up at Ricky until the glass was filled, his gaze sharp and deliberate.


    "Listen-"


    "Hey, Luciano''s look after their own. Don''t apologize for that." Lucky raised his hand, signaling for silence, before taking a slow sip of his bourbon.


    His eyes stayed fixed on Ricky, who sank into the chair in front of the desk with a heavy sigh, taking a load off.


    "So, how is he?" Lucky finally asked, knowing that Ricky must''ve found Jake after seeing Meyer earlier today.


    Meyer was usually a bundle of nerves, his frustration mounting with each failed attempt to track down Jake.


    But today was different since when he returned, there was a rare lightness in his step and a relieved smile that hinted at a breakthrough.


    "Bad Lucky, he''s in a real bad place right now and I''m just trying-"


    "You want some advice, Slick." Lucky stopped Ricky, holding up a glass as he took it with a stressed expression.


    "Sometimes, you can''t help someone unless they''re willing to help themselves. Being there is one thing, but destroying yourself over it is something else entirely." Lucky''s voice was steady, his thumb tracing the rim of his glass.


    Lucky spoke with the weight of someone who knew all too well how deep and dangerous that rabbit hole could go.


    "I know you blame yourself for Jake, I mean you have a hand to blame, but Jake is a grown ass man and you never forced him to do anything." Lucky reminded Ricky, knowing that he was shouldering too much of the blame for Jake.


    It was true Ricky had played a part in where Jake ended up, but he had never forced him, never put that needle in his arm.


    Jake had chosen to walk down that grim path of self-destruction and Lucky wasn''t about to stand by and let Ricky shoulder the blame or exhaust himself trying to pick up all the pieces.


    "It''s irresponsible to take all the blame yourself, it affects the business." Lucky eyes were serious, gazing at Ricky with piercing eyes.


    "You came back and told me you were ready. Well, being ready means making choices,tough ones," Lucky said, his voice firm as he pointed at Ricky.


    His gaze was stern, carrying an unspoken command: don''t let this one issue control you entirely.


    "Alright, Pops, I know you didn''t wait around just to talk about Jake. Get to the point." Ricky said, cutting through Lucky''s diversion as he leaned back, watching as Lucky sighed and met his gaze.


    "Slick, I know you''re ambitious, and I know the whole plan was for you to gain the church''s acceptance." Lucky began, his tone weighted with hesitation as he didn''t know how to properly convey his words.


    "But this lawsuit? It''s different, the government is different." Lucky words hung in the air, the reluctance in his voice making it clear he understood the government wouldn''t be so easy to sway.


    "Convincing people is easy, convincing an entity however, is nearly impossible." Lucky leaned forward, setting his glass to the side as he focused his entire presence on talking with Ricky.


    "I see what you''re trying to do, force the government''s hand and keep them from interfering, but by doing this we''re putting our entire livelihood at risk." Lucky said, cutting straight to the heart of the matter as his tone was firm, laying it all out while Ricky stayed silent, letting him speak.


    "We''ve got a really good thing going; the bank, our growing assets, hell, even the family is thriving with what we''ve built." Lucky began, his tone steady but laced with caution, showing Ricky as he spread out his hands.


    "But it doesn''t stop there. The Commission might''ve been harsh about you being a mutant, but once the government starts a slander campaign against you, this won''t stop with exile but a complete crucifixion of your character." Lucky tried to explain, knowing that the government''s reach expanded all across the country and they would rile up the people against him.


    "Doing this, putting yourself out there as a mutant, it won''t make anything easier, even with God on your side," Lucky said, knowing how far Ricky had come, but this new enemy wasn''t one defined by physical strength.


    "You''re going down a path of no return because Slick, this doesn''t stop with a simple honorary position." Lucky couldn''t hide how stressed he was when gazing at Ricky, his tone seemingly unconvinced since even he couldn''t stand against the U.S government.


    "It only stops with a winner and a loser," Lucky said, raising both hands as if to emphasize the point as his eyes locked onto Ricky''s, making it clear that there was no middle ground, only one outcome mattered.


    "This path goes against a different type of enemy, one that doesn''t rely on brute strength, but on public interest and the people." Lucky paused, looking down briefly, as if weighing the implications of his words.


    "A public interest that''s been carefully controlled and twisted to serve the goals of the U.S. government," Lucky finished, his voice laced with finality and as he leaned back, his eyes studying Ricky intently.


    Ricky nodded thoughtfully, his expression unwavering as he prepared to respond after letting Lucky talk without interruption.


    "Am I your heir?" Ricky asked, his voice steady but carrying a hint of uncertainty and Lucky raised an eyebrow, a look of disbelief crossing his face, as if the question itself was absurd.


    "Is this some sort of joke?"


    "Have I brought up your nose hairs?" Ricky asked with a playful smile as Lucky shot him a look, a chuckle escaping his lips.


    "Yes, you''re my heir." Lucky agreed, but it was then that Ricky leaned in, his expression shifting.


    "Then what is it that you want from me as your heir, what is it that I''m supposed to achieve after taking up the position?" Ricky seemingly asked a question that Lucky already knew the answer to, frowning slightly but playing along.


    "Taking the Luciano family to new heights." Lucky said, gesturing to Ricky as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.


    "For everything to work, for me to take the reins of the next generation as a mutant, I need to clear the obstacles that have been in place to hold me back for centuries." Ricky tried to explain, pausing to find the proper words until he looked back at Lucky.


    "Simply living a quiet life isn''t an option anymore since I don''t know if you know this, but I am a walking trouble magnet." Ricky laughed slightly, pointing to himself as everything he did seemed to attract eyes.


    "It feels like everywhere I go, everything I do, trouble and chaos follow, so when I tell you, really tell you, that this is the only way I can take the family to new heights, I mean it, pops. I''m serious." Ricky spoke with conviction, his tone unwavering as Lucky remained silent.


    "Look you see this?" Ricky pulled out Dracula''s diary, waving it in front of Lucky before handing it to him.


    "This is Dracula Tepes diary-"


    "I thought only schoolgirls kept diaries?" Lucky asked, raising an eyebrow and Ricky laughed, leaning back as he shot a look at Lucky.


    "I know, right? He literally rambles on about his feelings for like half of it-" Ricky trailed off, mocking Dracula, then suddenly stopped as he realized what he was doing and quickly composed himself.


    *Cough*


    "Look at the bookmarked pages, the parts about him talking about him were revealed to the public but instead of hiding away, he embraced the attention." Ricky pointed his finger to a certain section, watching Lucky scan the pages with a weird expression.


    "Dracula talks about how, at first, his reveal to the public was supposed to spread fear and unite people against the idea. Had the same effect for his own kind." Ricky explained, having read the diary''s contents thoroughly.


    Ricky was serious about this, about showing himself to the public even from day one, but after reading the diary, this haphazard and boisterous plan started to feel more calculated.


    Ricky was actually thinking of using this chance, the one where the government would surely shine a nationwide spotlight on him.


    Whether it was with good intentions or bad, they were giving him the stage, and with it, he was going to do one thing.


    "I''m going to become the mutant messiah motherf*cker." Ricky declared, spreading his arms wide as Lucky gave him a weird look, clearly unsure whether to take him seriously or not.


    "The what?" Lucky laughed out, registering his words only for Ricky to be actually serious.


    "Think about it, I''m literally the perfect guy for this. I mean, look at me," Ricky said, gesturing toward the mirror.


    "I don''t have any physical deformities, my ability doesn''t make me look any different from the average Joe, and I literally fit the criteria of the average white American man." Ricky walked over to the mirror, his eyes now on Lucky, who rubbed his chin thoughtfully.


    "What''s more, I don''t give three f*cks if someone hates me. I can take the onslaught of hate, and literally no one could kill me. I can be a mutant Jesus without the dying part!" Ricky said excitedly, while Lucky, clearly overwhelmed, rubbed his forehead.


    "Dracula said it best ''The very public display of our enmity with Van Helsing has, rather than diminishing me, elevated my status, transforming me into a symbol of resilience and defiance'' and if the government does the same, why can''t I be the Dracula of mutants?" Ricky seemingly asked Lucky who held up his hand, stopping his headache from forming.


    "What does this have to do with you elevating the family?" Lucky asked, gazing at Ricky with an unconvinced look.


    "I know it''s not set in stone, but say I win, say I crush the government and win this case." Ricky spoke in hypotheticals, pacing back to Lucky, his words charged with intensity.


    "Instead of being isolated by hate, I''ll become this mutant symbol and because of it, other mutants will flock to someone who represents who they are." Ricky then rubbed his hands, Lucky almost realizing in that moment.


    "You want to induct mutants into the family with a perceived notion of loyalty and admiration which would form into-"


    "The perfect soldier for the family." Ricky slammed his hands down onto the table, rising above the occasion.


    "Think about it¡ªimagine mutants, witches, and warlocks, all inducted into the family and brought into our traditions," Ricky said, clenching his fist before his smile slowly turned carnivorous as he envisioned it all before him.


    "A powered mob, a family that doesn''t just swallow up all of New York but spreads like a f*cking plague across the globe," Ricky said, nearly laughing as he pictured the Luciano family sinking its roots deep, infiltrating every corner of the world.


    "I''ve brought witches and warlocks, I''ve brought a f*cking demi-god minotaur and pops, I got what it takes to bring people in. I just gotta show them I''m the right guy to follow and this is how I do it!" Ricky said excitedly, his eyes burning with conviction as he knew this fight with the government wasn''t just about proving he could beat them, but about showing everyone that he was someone capable of playing the same game and still winning.


    Being a leader, being the person at the top, is more than just a display of raw strength or the ability to dominate those around you.


    It''s not about standing alone at the peak, with the world below you, basking in your power.


    Instead, it''s about having the vision and the skill to guide others; your people, your family, to greater heights.


    Leadership at its core is about elevating everyone you lead, helping them achieve success, and creating opportunities where none existed before.


    It''s about getting them to greener pastures, to more prosperous places in life that offer stability, growth, and security.


    It''s about finding a way forward, even when the road is difficult, even when the path is arduous, and bringing others along with you on that journey.


    A true leader knows that power isn''t just measured by strength, but by the ability to shape the future for those who follow.


    "And I know what you''re about to say, I know about the war brewing." Ricky looked back at Lucky''s serious gaze, knowing all too well what was forming in Germany.


    "I know about the Nazi''s, hell, I even know about those back the Nazi''s." Ricky shot Lucky a confident smirk, making it clear he was ready for whatever came next.


    "I''m not only going to force the government''s hand, elevate the family, but I''m also going to force my admission into west point." Ricky revealed confidently to Lucky who widened his eyes.


    Lucky still saw Ricky through the lens of who he had been three years ago; arrogant, reckless, and na?ve.


    That image didn''t just vanish overnight.


    It was hard for him to shake the feeling that Ricky was leaping headfirst into something without fully understanding the consequences.


    But Ricky wasn''t the same impulsive kid he had been as he had spent years training, honing his body, preparing for the inevitable war, but not only that, he had honed his mind.


    Ricky knew that World War II was coming, and he had studied the outcome, mulling over how to approach this with the knowledge he already had.


    What most people would see as a disaster, Ricky saw as an opportunity as he wasn''t planning to sit idly by; he was determined to be at the forefront, ready to seize what others couldn''t.


    This wasn''t just about power for Ricky anymore, it was about shaping the future.


    He wasn''t fully aware of it yet, but his desire for power was merging with an insatiable drive for politics.


    This, in its own way, was the first step toward something even bigger, something that would set him on a path he hadn''t yet begun to realize.


    "Slick you can''t-"


    "No Pops, this is something that I-"


    "No, dumbass, I mean it''s against the continental rules." Lucky emphasized, his tone serious as he brought up a point Ricky hadn''t considered.


    Ricky frowned, confused, and glanced around the room before reaching into his wallet, his mind still processing the weight of Lucky''s words.


    "Three years ago, you gave me this card and never explained anything about it." Ricky pulled out the sleek black card that read ''The Continental'' and slid it across the desk.


    "You told me that if I was ever in trouble, I should go there and ask for a trial membership, but you never said anything more." Ricky''s gaze locked onto Lucky, the image of him drunkenly stumbling on a Tuesday fading away, revealing the man standing in front of him now; focused, serious, and entirely different.


    "What is it about that place you''re not telling me, pops? What''s so special about it, and why do I keep hearing about it?" Ricky asked, the memories of past Black Knights mentioning the place only putting him more on edge.


    "Before I tell you, I should explain what this place is."


    *First Person Narration*


    First, some people think the underworld is just some lawless place but they couldn''t be more wrong.


    Even the underworld has rules, operations, traditions that have been around since any formed government.


    From these rules, these traditions, and these operations have formed the likes of the Continental.


    The Continental more than just a hotel; it is a sanctuary, a place of order in the chaotic world of assassins and criminals.


    Each location, whether in New York, Rome, or Tokyo, is a part of an exclusive network of luxury establishments, each serving as a safe haven for those who live and die by the gun.


    But it was more than just some lavish place or the five-star service that made the Continental unique, it was its rules.


    The first and most sacred rule was simple: no business on Continental grounds.


    This isn''t just a guideline; it is an ironclad law that everyone, from the newest hitman to the most seasoned assassin, has to follow.


    No matter what vendetta you harbored or who your target was, once you stepped inside the Continental, all hostilities must be ceased.


    Funny as it is, it''s sort of a place where enemies could share a drink, where deals can be made, but where bloodshed is strictly off-limits.


    But violating these rules isn''t just a breach of etiquette; its a f*cking death sentence.


    The penalty for conducting business, meaning any kind of hit, within the walls of the Continental is called for excommunication, stripping you of all rights, privileges, and protection within the criminal underworld.


    And the repercussions are just as swift and severe.


    Behind the scenes, the Continental is operated like a well-oiled cog within a machine.


    Hell, even the staff, from the concierge to the bartenders, are impeccably trained and utterly discrete.


    They know their clientele, understand their needs, and provide whatever is required without ever asking unnecessary questions.


    Sh*t, I''ve heard they''re bartenders for stuff like weapons, medical assistance, information, everything was available, for a price.


    More importantly, if you have a gold coin, then the Continental isn''t just a hotel; it is a fully equipped armory, infirmary, and intelligence hub.


    But at the center of all these hotels is a manager, a guy who operates the Continental within its ground as its de facto leader.


    In New York, this role is filled by a guy named Finn O''Conner who I haven''t had the pleasure of meeting.


    All I know is that he''s ruthless and instead of joining the Irish mafia, he found himself at the center of the Continental.


    The guy is both a host and a judge, capable of offering a warm welcome with one hand while signing a death warrant with the other.


    This place is like a symbol of the code that governed the underworld but, the moment you stepped outside its doors, the protection ended, and the deadly game resumed.


    In the shadows, the Continental also served as a crucial node in the global network of the High Table, the shadowy council that controlled the criminal underworld before any established government.


    Like I said five seconds ago, people think the underworld is a lawless place, but it''s actually a well-oiled machine that churns out people like sunflower seeds.


    I don''t know much about the High Table, except that anyone who crosses them either ends up dead or absorbed.


    Eight years ago, when I first adopted you and took down Maggiano, I lied when I said the reason was because he wanted to rule everything.


    The truth is, Maggiano wanted his criminal organization to be recognized by the High Table, but the problem was, our territory was too small and too divided to ever make the cut.


    Unlike our families, the families overseas are united into one organization, the Maggio, recognized by the High Table, which grants them privileges that mere gangs could never hope to acquire.


    In his desperation, Maggiano sought to unite all the families under his control, hoping to have the High Table recognize him as the leader, the boss of all bosses.


    However, the others, like myself, didn''t want to be underlings and we wanted to lead in our own right.


    So, we took Maggiano out and struck a deal with the high table, those scary bastards.


    The deal had ended up forming the Commission and its formation was simple: we would pay the necessary tribute to the High Table and accept not being officially recognized in exchange for their mercy.


    But I wasn''t satisfied with that and in the heat of the moment, I met with the High Table''s inquisitor and proposed a deal of my own.


    I structured the deal in such a way that the High Table wouldn''t have to lift a finger. All they had to do was recognize my family once I took control of New York.


    They agreed, since they stood to lose nothing; either I absorbed the other families, another family absorbed me, or we became a watered-down version while they reaped all the benefits.


    But regardless, from that moment on, I''ve been working toward the complete absorption of the families.


    *END OF NARRATION*


    "....." Ricky fell silent for a long time, processing everything Lucky had just revealed to him.


    "How could you not tell me any of this?" Ricky finally asked, his voice filled with confusion and frustration as Lucky''s expression darkened, a troubled look crossing his face.


    "It wasn''t that simple, Slick. These people are dangerous. They''ve toppled governments for breaking their rules, and not even the entire family knows of their existence, only Meyer and Frank." Lucky explained, letting out a heaved sigh, the subject of the High Table clearly stressing him out.


    "But I''m your son-"


    "I don''t care how mad you get at me, but would you have been able to sit still if you knew about this three years ago?" Lucky aske, his words forcing Ricky to close his mouth, realizing he would''ve almost immediately gone to the Continental to stir trouble.


    *Sigh*


    "Listen, I''m telling you now because I wholly believe that you''ve grown, and proof of that is how you didn''t fly off your rocker at me." Lucky explained this delicate subject, pouring himself another glass of bourbon.


    "But the continental is completely unbiased, meaning they are stern on being neutral, there is no favoritism in their view of war." Lucky continued, trying to tell Ricky that it was literally impossible for him to join a side.


    "War is profitable on both sides and you choosing America is against their rules." Lucky warned, his words heavy as Ricky had a weird expression.


    "But what if I was drafted-"


    "They have strings everywhere, they''d pull a couple." Lucky spread out his arms this time, showing that this was even out of his hands.


    "Listen, pops, please." Ricky edged himself to the edge of his chair, showing how eager he was. "This war is going to involve the world. Everything will get sucked in, and with war, there are profits to reap." Ricky explained, his smile reforming at the potential of this move.


    "We could use this war as a springboard, using it to propel the Lucaino name to new heights and wedge ourselves into national interests." Ricky had been reading a lot of Dracula''s diary and for this he had learned how important politics were.


    However, he was an amateur, meaning he knew almost nothing about this world, which is why he wanted Lucky on board to help guide him.


    "You can''t, I''m sorry." Lucky shook his head, Ricky frowning and grabbing his hands tightly.


    "Who could make that decision, who could overturn this without affecting the family." Ricky eyes were stern, his green iris''s locking onto Lucky''s.


    "Slick, once the family is recognized by the high table, hell, even now it doesn''t matter cause-"


    "Pops, who."


    Lucky was quiet, Ricky knowing he knew more than he chose to let on, which is why Lucky clenched his fist.


    "In the high table, there is but one who stands above the table but he''s more of a myth." Lucky almost hesitated to even speak his name behind closed doors, rubbing his throat after feeling as if a knife was placed on it for even thinking about him.


    "It''s a title, not a person, but they are always known as the ''Elder''."


    "But to get to the Elder, you''d not only have to integrate into the world but go even deeper into the High Table." Lucky continued, a hint of irony in his voice.


    "You''d have to make yourself so well known within their ranks that you''d finally earn the right to ask the Elder for permission to leave." Lucky chuckled softly, shaking his head at the irony of it all.


    "It wouldn''t make sense to go through all that and there would be an outrageous demand to go with it." Lucky laughed out, shaking his head while taking a sip of his bourbon.


    "But that would take years to prove your worth, and-"


    "In three years, I''ll meet the Elder," Ricky revealed, essentially setting a goal for himself to reach such heights within that time frame.


    Lucky opened his mouth to respond but paused, leaning back in his chair as he realized that Ricky wasn''t diving into this recklessly; he was giving himself a timeline, showing a level of patience and foresight that Lucky hadn''t expected.


    "But before any of that, how are you going to go about all of this mutant stuff, huh?" Lucky smiled, a knowing glint in his eyes as he watched his son. Ricky chuckled, leaning eagerly forward as his excitement bubbled up.


    "Well first-"


    Ricky laid out his plan with clarity and focus, explaining each step he intended to take and how it would all lead to his ultimate goal. As he spoke, Lucky found himself unknowingly leaning forward, drawn in by the ambition in his son''s voice.


    The more Ricky outlined his vision, the more Lucky realized this wasn''t just some wild dream, it was a serious possibility.


    "So you were serious about this whole mutant messiah thing? About becoming a symbol for the mutant community?" Lucky asked, his voice tinged with disbelief as he processed the gravity of what Ricky had just laid out. Ricky simply smiled in response, his confidence unwavering.


    "I know, funny, right?" Ricky chuckled, amused by the irony of it all, and Lucky couldn''t help but laugh along with him.


    But as the laughter died down, Lucky leaned back, his gaze fixed on Ricky as he saw how far his son had come, how much he had changed, and though he knew it might not work, it didn''t matter.


    Because in the end, he was going to do what any father would for his son''s ambition.


    "Alright Ricky, I''ll prepare everything, but I need to know for certain." Lucky crossed his hands together, looking at Ricky with a renewed intensity.


    "Are you sure?" Lucky asked in a deadpan serious voice, knowing that this was something that required him to go all in.


    "Because this is something that will forever follow you and can never be undone." Lucky gestured, the weight of failure meaning the possible end of their family.


    "I''m sure." Ricky said with conviction, his smile widening as he stood up with a puffed out chest.


    "I want to do this, I want to be the guy you always knew I could be, I''m ready to be the roots of this family." Ricky''s referenced Lucky from all the years ago, taking the old man off guard but he ended up laughing before a piece of paper was suddenly handed to him.


    "Also could you do me a favor and track down those names for me, it''s personal." Ricky handed a note to Lucky who looked over it and nodded before frowning.


    "You''re not trying to get laid or something, right?" Lucky asked only to see Ricky walk out of the room.


    "Slick seriously, why are the only names here broads!"


    Ricky chuckled to himself as he walked down the hallway, the sound of his laughter echoing off the walls. But instead of heading to bed, he made his way through the night, his steps guided by some unspoken purpose.


    The familiar mansion loomed ahead, and through the window, he saw her, sitting by the light of a single lamp, her face lost in the pages of a book.


    *Dink*


    *Dink*


    The girl''s entire body stiffened, tears welling up in her eyes as she slowly turned toward the window.


    Her hand instinctively covered her mouth, as if trying to hold back the emotions threatening to spill over.


    "Hey, Maria," Ricky greeted with a warm smile as Maria remained frozen for a moment, her gaze fixed on him, before her instincts kicked in.


    Without a second thought, she rushed to the window, her eyes wide with disbelief.


    Ricky, levitating just outside, didn''t give her a chance to hesitate and without even considering the danger, Maria leapt out of the window, her heart racing, trusting that whatever it was that had brought him here was worth the risk.


    Ricky effortlessly caught her mid-air, their bodies weightless as they seemed to float together.


    Maria clung to him, her tears soaking into his shirt as she sobbed quietly, the intensity of the moment overwhelming her.


    They ascended, rising above the city, the night sky unfolding around them.


    Stars twinkled like diamonds, and the gentle hush of the clouds surrounded them, as if they were the only two people in the world.


    Ricky held her tightly, his grip steady and comforting as they hovered, the vastness of the sky and the silent beauty of the world below them offering a brief respite from everything else.


    "Y-You came back to me~" Maria sniffled, her voice trembling as she pressed her face into Ricky''s chest, sobbing softly.


    Ricky held her even tighter, his face buried in her hair, the weight of the moment settling over him.


    "I''ll always come back for you," Ricky whispered gently, his voice full of conviction as Maria looked up at him, her tear-filled eyes searching for him, before their lips finally met in a kiss, tender and desperate, a reunion long overdue.


    "Oh, Ricky~" Maria smiled, her fingers gently caressing his chin as she gazed up at him with dreamy eyes.


    "EEP!" Maria squealed in surprise, suddenly realizing they were high up in the sky.


    Ricky grinned, twisting their bodies midair and creating a mental platform beneath them, steadying them both as they hovered above the city.


    "W-Why are we in the sky, Ricky, why are you stepping on the air-"


    *GASP*


    Maria''s feet gently touched the air, her eyes widening in surprise at the sensation.


    She looked down, amazed to find herself standing on nothing but thin air as Ricky released her, letting her take her first steps, and she hesitated at first, her legs wobbling beneath her.


    Slowly, she bent down, her fingers brushing the invisible platform beneath her feet as she tested its stability.


    Finally, she straightened up, her eyes meeting Ricky''s who had a smile tugged at the corners of his lips and a single outstretched hand.


    "Maria Profaci, three years ago we never got to go to prom, but would you allow me to have this dance?" Ricky asked, holding out his hand before Maria started laughing, almost crying as she nodded her head.


    *Sniff*


    "Certainly," Maria said, adopting a posh accent as she took his hand and Ricky helped her up, gently placing his hand on her waist.


    They danced, the world spinning gently around them beneath the moonlight with Maria''s smile growing, a soft and radiant glow, as they moved in rhythm, their bodies gliding together in perfect harmony.


    The sky stretched above them, vast and endless, like a canvas for their reunion while painting their figures in a spotlight seemingly meant just for them.


    Three years apart had weighed heavily on Maria, especially the lingering thought that she had been abandoned, left behind without a second glance.


    Those fears, always there in the back of her mind, had plagued her subconscious, shaping her every step in his absence.


    But now, as she swayed in Ricky''s arms, everything felt different.


    With each step, each time she accidentally stepped on his shoe, each time they both chuckled at how horrible they were at dancing.


    The past seemingly melted away with each of their movements, each breath shared between them warming that love that had seemingly froze in time.


    The uncertainty, the pain, the doubts, all of it was replaced by the solid, undeniable presence of Ricky''s hold, his arms steady and secure around her.


    The weight of the world, the years, slipped off her shoulders, and in its place was the certainty of his touch, his sleazy smile that never failed to reassure her that no matter the storm, they would always find their way back to each other.


    *Sniff*


    "You''re a real jerk, you know that?" Maria whispered as they swayed in a slow dance, her scowl softening only slightly as she leaned into his embrace.


    "The biggest jerk," Ricky agreed with a chuckle, his tone teasing yet sincere.


    "Ricky?"


    "Yes, princess?"


    "Why didn''t you say goodbye?" Maria asked, her voice not hurt but filled with confusion as Ricky looked down, a hint of shame crossing his face.


    It was one of the things he regretted. Ricky knew he was a bastard, but even still, it felt sh*tty leaving Maria all alone like that, without so much as a goodbye to warm her on the coldest days.


    "Truthfully, you probably expected me to say something like, ''I knew that if you told me to stay, I would''ve,''" Ricky admitted, his gaze dropping as Maria simply waited to finish his words.


    "But that''s a lie," Ricky continued, his voice softening, feeling slightly ashamed but continuing nonetheless.


    "Back then, I just wanted to run away, leave it all behind. But when I did, along the way, I realized that I shouldn''t run from the things that are important to me." Ricky looked down at Maria with a sincere expression, rubbing her hand that was still pressed on his cheek.


    "I shouldn''t have run and I wish, on a million wishes, that I could just go back and beat the sh*t out of the past me for leaving such a great girl like yourself." Ricky''s words made Maria laugh, smiling ear to ear at him actually bearing himself to her instead of pushing her away like he always did. Before.


    "I want to tell you the world, to make up for everything but I know you deserve only two from my lips." Ricky seriously spoke, looking Maria straight into her eyes with a sincerity she never thought possible from him.


    "I''m sorry."


    "I''m sorry for everything, for leaving you alone, for running out, and I''m going to do everything I can to make up for it, I promise." Ricky grabbed her delicate hand, kissing her palm as she slowly started to blush.


    "I promise that I''m never gonna leave you behind anymore, never going to hide from you, and for that reason is why I came here." Ricky''s words only prompted a sad smile from Maria who understood immediately.


    "You''re leaving again-"


    "Only temporarily, I''m gonna sue the government." Ricky revealed, Maria widening her eyes before squinting.


    "Why."


    "So I can come back, sweep you off your feet, and take you away from this place." Ricky gestured down to the mansion, Maria remembering as she smiled warmly.


    "Ricky, I need to tell you something." Maria brought Ricky''s face next to hers, lightly pecking the tip of his nose before rubbing his chin.


    "Ricky, you have a son." Maria said with a teasing grin, her eyes sparkling and Ricky let out a laugh, pretending to be oblivious.


    "Hey, I''m serious," Maria puffed her cheeks, playfully hitting his chest as Ricky smiled, leaning in to kiss her soft cheek.


    "Then I guess you''re stuck with me." Ricky laughed, holding her close as she wrapped her arms around him.


    "D-Do you want to meet him?" Maria asked, her voice trembling with fear, afraid Ricky might say no.


    But before he could respond, they began to levitate downward, the world around them blurring as they descended together.


    "I thought you''d never ask."


    Arriving inside the house, Maria moved cautiously, checking the hallway before stepping into the room.


    She made her way towards a door, which connected their rooms and as she opened it, Ricky was quietly introduced to his son, Carmine Falcone Luciano, who lay peacefully asleep in his bed.


    "He takes after his mother," Ricky thought out loud with a whisper, noticing more of Maria''s features in him, but the deep black hair was unmistakably his own as he nodded quietly, a small smile forming on his face.


    "He needs a father, Ricky, not a mobster," Maria warned, her voice steady but firm and Ricky raised his hands in surrender as she gently closed the door behind her.


    "Princess, do you trust me?" Ricky asked, holding her hands gently. Maria hesitated for a moment before slowly nodding her head.


    "Just wait a little longer, and I promise I''ll make it all right." Ricky reassured her, pulling her into another deep kiss before slowly pulling away.


    "Only because it''s you," Maria smiled at him, her voice soft but warm. Ricky winked in response, casually opening the gate.


    "Ricky, be careful." Maria called out tentatively, a hint of concern in her voice and Ricky shot her a sleazy grin as he glanced back at her.


    "Never." Ricky hopped into the portal, smiling ear to ear at Maria pouting before she blew him a kiss.


    Catching it, he stuffed it in his pocket while winking at her as hte portal closed as Maria held her smile in place.


    "Mommy?" Carmine''s small voice came from the door, followed by a soft knock. Maria quickly walked over, opening the door to find her little boy rubbing his tired eyes.


    "Sweetie, what are you doing up so late?" Maria asked gently, her hand brushing his hair as she picked him up and cradled him in her arms as she walked him back to his bed, tucking him in carefully.


    "I heard noises." Carmine pouted, being gently laid back into his bed as Maria caressed her head.


    "Can you tell me a story?" Carmine asked, pulling up the covers with a stubborn but tired gaze.


    "Let me guess, one about your father?" Maria chuckled, lightly pinching his cheek as he swatted it away but didn''t refuse.


    "Well, one day, there were some jerks trying to pick on me and-"


    Meanwhile outside a familiar house,


    Instead of returning to Lucky''s mansion, Ricky decided to stop by another house as though his dance with Maria had been heartfelt, it left him incredibly horny which is why he was now at Alina''s house.


    As he slipped into the house, the silence enveloped him; his arrival went unnoticed.


    Originally, he''d planned to see Danielle after meeting Jake, but now, things had shifted as he quietly opened the door of the master bedroom to find Alina, her curves visible beneath the sheets, peacefully asleep in her room.


    ''F*ck, she''s ages like fine wine-''


    *Click*


    "Don''t move." Alina''s voice was cold and commanding as she swiftly drew a revolver from under her pillow, aiming it at Ricky, who was lurking in the shadows.


    "You came to the wrong ho-" Alina began to threaten, but her words faltered as the revolver slipped from her grasp, falling onto the bed.


    Her hands shook as she slowly raised them to her mouth, eyes wide, when Ricky stepped into the light.


    "And here I thought you couldn''t get any more sexy, you go and pull a gun on me." Ricky took off his jacket, throwing it to the side while walking up to Alina, pulling the busty woman on the verge of tears.


    "Hey there, beautiful." Ricky''s voice was soft, almost a whisper as Alina touched his cheek to make sure this was real and not a dream.


    "Oh Ricky~" Alina smiled brightly, her hand trembling as it gently caressed his cheek, her gaze locking onto his with an intensity that seemed to pierce straight through him.


    "You came back to me," Alina cried out, shivering in Ricky''s embrace as he leaned in and just before their lips could meet, he whispered a single word.


    "Always."

 Chapter 119 - 115: An Addictive Reunion (R18)

    Chapter 119: Chapter 115: An Addictive Reunion (R18)


    In the next moment, their lips met in a serene kiss, the soft intimacy of it lingering as Ricky''s hands traced the familiar curves of her body until something strange began to unfold.


    Instead of the usual submissive Alina, allowing Ricky to take control, she began to grow more assertive.


    Her tongue, once passive, swirled confidently in his mouth, exploring him with newfound intensity and suddenly, Alina''s hand moved swiftly, grasping his crotch with a firm, eager touch.


    Without even tracing its outline, Alina unbuckled his belt in a swift, practiced motion, her sensual lips releasing from Ricky''s in an almost teasing manner, leaving him momentarily confused by the sudden shift.


    ''What the hell-o-oh.''Ricky was about to ask when a shiver ran down his spine, the sensation of Alina swallowing his cock in one smooth gulp cutting him off, leaving him momentarily breathless.


    Leaning back, Ricky seemed to be on the defensive as Alina moved closer, her hands eagerly starting to strip his clothes off.


    Her head moved back and forth with a rough, gulping resolve as her actions were driven by something deeper than just any physical need.


    Alina''s situation was different from the other women in Ricky''s life.


    Unlike the fleeting encounters he had with the others, who were nothing more than brief interactions, Alina had been left with the lasting mark of Ricky.


    Becoming his personal cum dumpster, Ricky would show up, fill every asset of her holes with his cum and taste, then leave to do whatever it was he was going to do until the cycle repeated over and over again.


    Through all of this, Alina became one of the many women Ricky left behind; but hers was a different kind of suffering.


    While the others had merely been fleeting distractions, Alina had truly been marked by him, used by him completely, and unknowingly caught in the aftermath of his addictive presence.


    It wasn''t just the physical pleasure that lingered; it was the relentless cravings, the emptiness he left in his wake.


    His addictive touch, his potent liquids, had burned their way into her, and now she was paying the price.


    Alina had been consumed by him for so long that her addiction had spiraled into something deeper, and unlike the others, who came and went without consequence, Alina was left with withdrawals.


    But the withdrawals came differently, unlike those of regular drug users, hers were tinged with pleasure as nothing seemed to compare to Ricky''s touch.


    Her fingers, material objects; none of them could give her that same high that crushed her mind, the way his body and cock had.


    On the outside, Alina maintained a motherly figure for her children and the community she had woven herself into, but on the inside, she was feigning.


    "Holy sh*t~" Ricky gasped, barely able to form the words as Alina gargled his cock within the depths of her throat while her soft hands gently fondled his balls.


    Alina looked up at him, her eyes locked on Ricky''s as she slowly pulled her lips away from his cock. Ricky, already shirtless, watched as she traced a slow line of saliva with her tongue across his chest.


    ''What the hell is happening-oh, don''t tell me-"


    "Ricky, you''re back~" Alina murmured, her face inching closer to his, a warm smile on her lips and a deep blush coloring her cheeks.


    Ricky couldn''t help but notice by her reaction that maybe his IP skills had actually caused these sudden actions, but he didn''t dwell on it for too long.


    "I want to feel you Ricky, I need to feel it all~" Alina whispered in his ear, biting her lip as she tried to suppress the desire to suck him dry only to give into lower lips.


    Feeling how her body cried out a wetness of need, her folds aching and flushed, unable to ignore their insistent calls to be filled.


    "Oh Ricky~" Alina moaned, a smile spreading across her face as he tore off her clothes, leaving her body exposed and pressed against his lap.


    Ricky''s hand then firmly gripped one of her plump cheeks, his fingers sinking into the softness of her flesh as if drawn in, the pressure deepening like quicksand.


    His other hand quickly moved to her large melons, which flopped free as her top was finally discarded.


    "Ricky~" Alina whimpered, resting her head on his shoulder, unable to wait any longer.


    Reaching down towards his cock, gripping it firmly with it already slathered in her salvia, and positioned it at the entrance of her aching folds, aligning it perfectly.


    *Clap*


    Alina didn''t hesitate for a moment, quickly lowering her hips and impaling herself on his cock, her head arching back in a breathless gasp.


    "O-Oh~" Alina''s head arched back, a moan escaping her as a wave of relief washed over her, the emptiness within her completely filled to its brim in one swift motion.


    Then her teeth clenched, chomping down onto the strain that had plagued her for long, that feeling that forced her to grab hold of something to reel in from this pleasure.


    It was everything she dreamed it would be when he finally came back to her, filling her to the brim and leaving no room to dispute.


    "Your home~" Alina fell backwards into this feeling, watching Ricky slowly lean over and place her on her back, looking up with glee while knowing that she would be devoured by his body once more.


    "Damn right~" Ricky breathed, his eyes locking on the one woman he never needed to hold back with.


    His hand, which had been cradling her breast, slowly slid down until he firmly gripped both of her wrists.


    Watching him pin her down, Alina smiled as her eyes filled with hearts as his other hand held down her waist.


    Then, Alina felt the emptiness return as Ricky pulled back, his hips winding up before he slammed into her again, showing no remorse and she didn''t want him to.


    "A-Ah~" Alina saw the stars, she felt that out of body pleasure as her pussy parted and stretched for Ricky like in the past.


    Her head tilted back as Ricky sank his lips onto her neck, and Alina''s eyes watered from the relentless pounding as his cock hammered into her folds.


    Despite being pinned down and treated like nothing more than a sex doll, Alina couldn''t help but smile warmly.


    "Y-Yes~" Alina moaned out, her eyes twitching back at every instance of Ricky''s cock splitting open the depths of her pussy.


    Feeling her walls shudder as waves of pure pleasure crashed over her, that familiar sensation so crippling that she couldn''t stop the juices that sprayed freely, soaking the sheets beneath them, and marking the intensity of their passion.


    Her nerve endings ignited, firing sporadically as she was consumed by the unyielding, relentless assault of his cock.


    But most of all, her mind surrendered completely, dissolving into a haze of bliss where only his touch, his presence, and the sloppy intermingling of their flesh existed within her world.


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    *BAM*


    The bedframe slammed against the wall with each of Ricky''s powerful thrusts, the force reverberating through Alina''s body, each brutal push making her gasp.


    As his cock plunged deep, buried within her, her walls wrapped tightly around him, gripping him as if they were made to hold him and Ricky couldn''t help but remember why he always returned to Alina.


    No matter how hard his cock slammed into her, no matter how rough he was with her body, or how much he craved to simply lose himself, Alina always responded the same way.


    She welcomed him fully, her body arching, her breath hitching, her entire being surrendering completely to him but still craving more, craving that sweet release that always came with his presence.


    "Ricky~" Alina moaned, her voice sweet yet heavy with need, smiling through the haze of pleasure as her body was used, reduced to nothing more than his personal toy, his willing cum dump.


    Uncaring if he destroyed her body in the process, as long as this pleasure kept flooding her mind, Alina smiled, lost in the overwhelming bliss.


    Then her mouth fell open, her eyes squinting in pleasure as a strand of hair fell loose, trickling down the front of her face.


    All because of the pent-up tension in her body that was suddenly shattered by the force of Ricky''s next thrust, sending her over the edge.


    That thrust sent the tip of his cock reaching deep into her guts, breaking that dam that had built up over these three years as her body shuddered in response.


    "HAAAAA~" Alina let out a long, trembling moan, her voice rising and breaking as her body succumbed to the overwhelming pleasure.


    Her folds quivered, spasming with unrelenting intensity before releasing a torrent of her climax, a warm flood spilling forth as her body shook violently in its release.


    Her back arched instinctively, her hands tried to claw at the sheets only to be planted firmly placed by his hold as her breath hitched, every fiber of her being consumed by the storm of ecstasy coursing through her.


    *CLAP*


    Only for Ricky to continue his relentless assault, driving his cock deep into her even as her body convulsed in the throes of her mind-shattering climax.


    "F*ck~" Ricky muttered out, his hips slamming down into the convulsing and vibrating Alina whose body involuntary reaction made Ricky lose his mind.


    That warm, enveloping sensation gripped him tightly, her walls wrapping around his cock with a slick, eager embrace.


    As Ricky would pull out, the moonlight streaming through the window seemed to catch onto his slobbered cock, glistening from her slathered juices.


    Coating him completely in her own lubrication, giving him complete freedom to move within her before he slammed back.


    "Ha-AAAH~" Alina''s small moan mounted into a towering, feeling her pleasure from the climax surge upwards as his amplifying hands forced her to feel even more of that crippling sensation.


    Alina''s body trembled uncontrollably, her movements sporadic with the only thing chaining her in place was Ricky''s firm grip that always seemed to press down onto her.


    Ricky gritted his teeth, watching Alina unravel before him, her mind slipping away as that tight, vibrating sensation around his cock intensified.


    Each wave of her orgasm hit her harder than the last, her body flooding with juices, her grip tightening as she lost herself completely in the pleasure


    Her thighs shook from every forceful thrust, struggling to keep steady, and her chest rose and fell rapidly, each breath escaping her lips in ragged, helpless moans that only fueled his desire and through all of it, Alina couldn''t help but smile.


    "Y-Yesh~" Alina let out a broken, gasping cry, her voice trembling as Ricky''s pace intensified, his unyielding thrusts driving deeper into her, leaving her body utterly impaled and her mind fragmented.


    Each movement sent her thoughts scattering, splintering into shattered streams of pure, overwhelming pleasure that she could barely comprehend.


    Ricky couldn''t hold out any longer, feeling the overwhelming heat and tight, slick vibrations of her pulsating mush of a pussy that drove him past the brink.


    His neck strained with veins, winding up one last assault while reeling in his hips before punishing her folds in the next instance.


    "AHHHHHHHHH~" Alina screeched, her body trembling as a tsunami of release crashed through her, her entire being overwhelmed by the blissful rush.


    But as the ecstatic sensation flooded out of her, her face spread into an ear-to-ear smile as every nerve in her body seemed to light up in pure euphoria at the feeling that flooded into her.


    In the next instant, Alina felt the scorching warmth erupt deep inside her, his cum flooding her womb and expanding within her in a tidal wave of heat that set her stomach aflame.


    The feeling was intense, consuming her with a searing, finally quelling the addict that was Alina who shuddered at the warmth of his cum.


    *HUFF*


    *HUFF*


    Alina let out ragged breaths of delight, her body trembling with need, uncaring as Ricky flipped her onto her stomach, yanking her head back by the hair.


    She instinctively reached behind her, her fingers sinking into his slick, tousled hair, pulling him closer as she gave herself fully to him, lost in the wild, consuming pleasure.


    "Ricky~" Alina could help but breathlessly moan out, kissing his neck as she arched her back just for him.


    Then slowly, Alina felt his arms wrap around her like snacks before squeezing down a stronghold of a grip onto her massive tits.


    Then, without a second to waste, Alina felt his punishing thrusts slam into her ass, the shock of each deep, relentless motion sending jolts of pleasure through her.


    Her head leaned back, resting against his shoulder as the intensity of his movements made her body shudder.


    Ricky pressed light kisses along her collarbone, each one leaving a small, tender trail of hickeys which was such a stark contrast to the brutal, almost savage thrusts that continued to ram into her, his cock relentlessly driving into the gates of her folds with unyielding force.


    Alina simply sat in his hold, feeling his arms wrap around her like an anaconda, tight and unrelenting, wrapping her in an embrace that restrained her completely.


    His grip was unyielding, the sensation of his hands constantly slipping and gliding over her tits, shaping them to his whims, each squeeze and pinch a deliberate play on her body.


    His pleasure was like poisonous venom, seeping into her with each movement, a fast, intoxicating burn that spread through his every action, his every thrust, his every kiss.


    Alina could feel what Ricky wanted, the way he molded her, as if her body existed solely for his indulgence and entirely for his whims.


    Her arms, which had been dangling limp in the air, slowly maneuvered upwards, trembling slightly as they reached for him.


    With a sense of surrender, she placed her hands on top of his, guiding them as they continued to fondle her aggressively.


    "F*cking hell, Alina." Ricky felt as though he was on the verge of losing his mind over this woman.


    Watching her, so utterly unrelenting in her submission, her body yielding to whatever he desired, only fueled his craving.


    The way she surrendered so completely to him, without hesitation or resistance, pushed him further into a frenzy.


    *CLAP*


    *CLAP*


    *CLAP*


    The sharp sounds of her ass being struck echoed through the closed room, each resounding slap rippling through her, the force of Ricky''s thrusts sending frantic, wet sounds of impact that echoed all around.


    His hips slammed into her relentlessly, the rhythm of his movements synchronized with the harsh, jolting collisions that reverberated off the walls.


    With each punishing thrust, her ass was utterly pulverized, the sound of skin slapping against skin reverberating through the air.


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    Alongside it came the broken, rhythmic pattern of Alina''s moans, like a shattered record, each cry fiercer than the last.


    Her moans spilled out of her wet, sloppy lips, echoing with every tremble of her body as her pleasure grew more frantic.


    Clenching and releasing, squirting and cumming, Alina was a downright mess, her body writhing and shaking as her insides churned to Ricky''s cock.


    Feeling her flesh part and then close in around him, feeling her folds stretched and contorted with each thrust, and the overall sensation that was utterly mind-numbing with every inch of her being consumed by his cock.


    Alina could feel, once again, the changing feeling that kept her enslaved to him, the undeniable link between them that always left her craving more.


    Her withdrawals had been fierce without him, a torment she could now understand completely; he had become her addiction, her need, and the one thing she couldn''t live without.


    But even more so, this feeling that was being imparted onto her was something even more addicting than the last.


    "AHHHHHHHHH~" Alina screamed, the sound ripping from her throat as Ricky''s cock buried deep, yanking out another orgasm from her.


    Her body quaked with the force of it, her walls tightening around him as the waves of pleasure surged through her, leaving her breathless and undone yet Ricky''s thrust persisted.


    "You''re the literal embodiment of wine Alina, finer with every passing year~" Ricky''s tentative whisper brushed against her ear in the aftermath of her crippling climax.


    But the tone of his voice was different now: silken, smooth, laced with a seductive quality that seemed to heighten every lingering sensation in her body.


    Shivering, Alina felt as though her eardrum was being caressed, teased with each soft, breathless whisper.


    The sensation was almost too much, taunting yet soothing, and underneath it all, a deep connection that settled into her mind, calming the frenzy of her body while igniting a slow burn of desire deep within her.


    Then his hands squeezed, her eyes twitching as she felt the pleasure that had pooled within her body suddenly amplify, radiating through her breasts.


    He dug his fingers into the soft, moldable flesh, the sensation so compelling that it drowned out any thought of protest; only pure, unrelenting pleasure remained, making her unable to do anything but surrender.


    Then her eyes hazily turned towards him in the midst of his next thrust, her body shivering, yet unable to look away.


    She was mesmerized by the intensity in his green irises, their gaze locking as a wave of heat washed over her, the connection between them pulling her deeper into the moment, making everything else fade away.


    He kissed her shoulder gently, his lips brushing against her skin, but his eyes never left hers while leaving only an intense stare between them.


    It felt as if she couldn''t look away, trapped in the heat of his gaze, until his cock drove deep into her, forcing her walls to tighten, her eyes cloning around him while giving into the pleasure once more.


    Her nose took in a deep breath, huffing his scent that drove her wild, unable to stop herself from breathing that intoxicating scent once more.


    Then finally, it was his mere presence as his aura, his grip, the very same that made everything feel as if it were meant to be, made the world outside of him fading to nothing.


    Until her eyes snapped open, her body jerked back as Ricky collided deep into her once more, sending a shock of raw pleasure through her.


    Ricky buried his head in the crevice of her neck, the scent of her skin grounding him as his balls ached with each surge, releasing load after load into her as he couldn''t help but feel completely at home, engulfed in the tight, welcoming embrace of her body.


    Alina greedily accepted him, her body trembling with a hunger she couldn''t control and as he thrusted deeper, her muscles involuntarily clenched around him, a desperate pull that seemed to milk every last drop from him, filling her womb with his warmth.


    The sensation was shattering, both tender and intoxicating, as her entire being seemed to tighten with every pulse of his release.


    Her back arched, pressing against his chest, as she leaned into him, breathless and eager.


    Her tongue parted slightly, her lips slightly trembling, as the hot rush of air escaped in shallow gasps, the room thick with the scent of desire.


    Each breath was ragged, her body continuously filled by his heat, and her mind clouded with an addiction to him that made her crave more.


    Holding onto her tighter, Ricky simply stood there while enjoying her squeezing out the very last drop from his cock before looking up at her.


    It was then did she kiss his lips, rubbing his cheek before slowly falling onto the bed as Ricky watched the show.


    Alina was exhausted, every muscle in her body screaming for her to stop, but that didn''t stop her.


    With slow, deliberate movements, she crawled forward, her hands trembling on the sheets she pranced on as she carefully unsheathed him from her depths of her folds.


    Her body ached as it released its hold on his cock, still slick with her juices, flooded with his cum which poured out with every inch freed by Alina.


    "Ha~" Alina breathed out a shaking moan, feeling the warm rush out from her womb and splatter down onto the sheets below.


    *Pop*


    With a soft, wet sound, Alina freed Ricky''s cock, slipping out as it stood fully erect.


    Without a moment''s hesitation, Alina crawled to the foot of him, her movements deliberate and slow.


    She reached up, her hand wrapping around the base of his cock, her fingers curling around him with a soft grip.


    Her tongue, warm and teasing, brushed lightly against the sensitive skin of his sweaty, hanging balls, before slowly drawing upward, tracing the path of his length with a slow, deliberate motion.


    Her juices and his remnant of cum guiding its way onto her taste buds, her eyes rolling back at the taste one again gracing her lips as she greedily licked him clean.


    Her juices, mixed with the remnants of his cum, coated her taste buds, and she moaned softly, her eyes rolling back as the familiar taste flooded her senses.


    She greedily licked him clean, savoring every drop and with each slow, deliberate flick of her tongue, she accounted for every inch of him, her movements both seductively meticulous and insatiably hungry.


    Once his cock was utterly spotless, Alina leaned in, her movements smooth and determined as she took him entirely into her throat and she swallowed around him, her gaze lifting to meet him with an approving smile.


    To her delight, Ricky arched his back, a soft groan escaping him as he let his hand gently guide her by parting her hair, pushing it back behind her head.


    The simple, tender gesture filled her with warmth, a small but significant reminder of his presence and care amidst the heat of the moment.


    But instead of the slow, deliberate movements of her tongue, Alina suddenly slammed her head down, taking him to the base.


    Her nose pressed against his pubic hairs, the sensation tickling her as she held him deep for a moment before pulling back then repeating the gesture.


    Alina could feel the suffocating weight of him as she swallowed, every inch of him pressing deep into her throat, almost choking her.


    But her mind was elsewhere, consumed with the taste of his cum as the ecstasy it gave her was unbearable, a sweet relief that soothed the hunger in her addicted heart.


    As it graced her tongue and slid down her throat, she felt a sense of satisfaction, as if every part of her being was finally fulfilled.


    Alina cared nothing for her own well-being, she only focused on the taste she craved and was completely determined, fanatical almost while driven by an insatiable hunger to feel him fill her mouth again with that hot thick batter.


    Alina''s throat tightened around him with every iteration of slamming his cock down her windpipe, almost gagging as his tip pressed into her, his girth stretching her mouth and throat with each swift motion.


    The excitement of him hitting the back of her throat made her pulse race, the warmth and slickness of her mouth providing a slick, needy grip around him that only encouraged her efforts.


    Gripping Ricky''s waist tightly, Alina used the leverage to push herself faster, taking him in deeper with every hope that she would release it out faster.


    Her throat fluttered as she adjusted to his size, the tightness of her passage rippling with every inch he forced down her, while the inside of her mouth became hot and slick with saliva, desperately working to draw him in.


    ''What a freak~'' Ricky couldn''t help but think, as Alina took control, slamming her head down onto him without needing any encouragement from his hands gripping her head.


    She was relentless, swallowing him whole over and over, the tightness of her throat working in tandem with the wetness of her mouth, each motion a desperate pull.


    As she continued, Alina shifted her focus, one hand moving to gently cradle his balls.


    Her fingers massaged them with a soft urgency, as though she hoped the sensation would coax him closer to the edge, making him more comfortable in giving her what she so desperately craved.


    Everything she did, every desperate move, was driven by the singular desire to feel him fill her stomach with an unending stream of his milky white cum.


    As Ricky''s cock twitched within the tight grip of her throat, Alina knew exactly what it meant.


    Her pulse quickened, her body instinctively pushing forth, eager to take him deeper as her nose flared, ragged breaths escaping as she pushed herself harder, the air around her thick with anticipation.


    Without another moment of hesitation, Ricky gripped her hair, pulling her closer as he thrust deep into her throat with full force, releasing everything in one swift motion.


    Alina shivered at the feeling, her throat tightening instinctively as that thick residue spewed into her gullet without even the need to swallow, flowing effortlessly down and into her stomach.


    "My god~" Ricky seemingly looked in the air, laughing at how he could forget the mind numbing blowjobs Alina gave.


    Suddenly, Alina pulled her head back, her lips still wrapped around him as she slurped along his length.


    Then to her relief, Ricky''s next load surged into her mouth, the silky, scorching sensation flooding her taste buds.


    The intense feeling made her eyes roll back, her cheeks puffing out, as if she were holding it all in like a chipmunk savoring a feast.


    *Gulp*


    *Gulp*


    One mouthful after another, Alina eagerly gulped down every offering, her throat working tirelessly until she was completely full and even then she didn''t hesitate to swallow it all.


    For the next hour, Alina continued to help herself to Ricky, eagerly gulping down every offering he gave her.


    Meanwhile, Ricky laid back on the bed, savoring the pleasure as she relentlessly satisfied her craving.


    *POP*


    Finally, feeling satisfied, Alina released his cock from the clutches of her mouth, her lips lingering for a moment before she slowly climbed up to rest on his chest.


    She placed a hand gently on his pectoral, and Ricky, with a tender smile, grabbed it, holding her close.


    Alina smiled sweetly, cherishing the quiet moment between them, fully immersed in the comfort of their reunion.


    *DING*


    [Mission Received: Alina Mannheim]


    Difficulty: Easy-Medium


    Character Sheet: C-


    Description: Alina might seem very unapproachable and vitreous but she''s been very pent up ever since her husband died. The only reason no one dared to try something with this beautiful MILF was because of Rocco, however now that department seems to have disappeared.


    Objective: Release Alina from the shackles of her own guilt riddled chains that surround her luscious body and cum inside her.


    Reward: 25,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Alina Once: (Complete)


    Rewards: 10,000 IP


    Impregnate Alina Twice:


    Choose: 5,000 IP or Alina''s Skills


    Additional Missions:


    Have Alina beg you to cum inside her(Complete):


    Reward: Skill Coupon(Epic)


    Have Alina throw away her dignity for your cum(Complete):


    Reward: +8 Agility


    Cum inside all three of Alina''s holes(Complete):


    Reward: +6 Dexterity


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    Creampie Alina three times in one sitting(Complete)


    Reward: 15,000 IP


    Hidden Mission: Have Alina cum with every Creampie in that sitting(Complete)


    Reward: Rare Skill Coupon


    Spend the night creampiing Alina in Rocco''s room


    Reward: 50 gacha spins


    ???????????????????


    Have Alina completely give herself to you(Complete):


    Reward: +3 Vitality


    ???????????????????


    Ricky still hadn''t completed any of the hidden missions left, but he had successfully gotten her knocked up once again, before being given the ultimatum for his actions.


    ''I guess Alina''s skill.'' Ricky thought, knowing that he felt a little poor when choosing the 5,000 IP for Carla instead of her skills.


    *DING*


    Author''s Note: I saw some of comments with one asking about updating the status sheets, woman targets, and so on. I just wanna saw that I totally forgot about that and will do it porbably sometime this weekend cause I wanna play overwatch instead of doing that LOL.

 Chapter 120 - 116: Declaration Of War

    Chapter 120: Chapter 116: Declaration Of War


    Author''s Note: I f*cked up and didn''t copy and paste the right part for the last Chapter 115 so I acutally recommand you go back and read it since I''m a dumbass and only put half the Chapter. I''m acutally sorry and didn''t realize it until I was rereading some stuff.


    Later that night,


    "Aye Vito be careful, the streets are hot." One of the guys warned Vito only to receive a scoff, waving him off as he turned away.


    "Listen, the only thing that''s about to be hot is the muzzle point at my forehead if I don''t get to work on time tomorrow." Vito laughed, shaking his head with a degrading sigh as one of the men frowned.


    "That banana''s sure keeps you on a leash-"


    "Aye, woah, you tryna get your head busted open?" Vito asked the man, waving his hand while looking either way.


    "I thought it was a myth, a joke?" The man asked Vito, surprised as he lit another cigarette and offered one to Vito who politely refused.


    "Ain''t nothing about getting your head split open by Joe''s barefist funny, let me tell ya." Vito sighed, shaking his head while feeling a little queasy just thinking about that day.


    "Ya know, I was eating a meatball sub when Joe cracked that poor guy''s head open." Vito held his stomach, feeling it churn from the memory as the others laughed.


    "Not after that I''m sure." The guys all laughed, busting his balls as Vito waved them off while walking towards his care.


    "Alright take care Vito, see ya tomorrow!" The guys waved down Vito who walked towards his car, opening it before hesitating as he turned the fob.


    Car bombings weren''t commonplace for most mobsters, but during street tensions like the current ones, even Vito found himself on edge.


    However, as his car roared to life, a sigh of relief escaped his lips, until he suddenly caught something out of the corner of his eye.


    "What the hell?" Vito muttered in exasperation while looking at a crow, sitting in his passenger seat before the bird pointed its wing behind him.


    *Click*


    "Don''t move."


    Those cold words were spoken, and Vito''s entire body froze as the sound of a revolver echoed in his ears.


    "Drive."


    That word seeped into Vito''s mind as he gripped the steering wheel tightly, his eyes instinctively darting to the rearview mirror, only to find it tilted upward, skewing any reflection behind him.


    It was then that the cold barrel pressed against the back of his neck, a shuddering breath escaping his lips.


    "Now."


    "O-Okay, okay," Vito''s shaky voice echoed, his foot slowly pressing on the gas as the car lurched forward, the atmosphere hanging in dead silence.


    "Take a right."


    Vito felt the cold steel pressed into the back of his neck, his hands instinctively steering the car to the right as it followed the direction.


    The pattern repeated, the car moving in sync with Vito''s actions, guided by the chilling threat of those words, until they finally arrived at an empty pier.


    "Put the car in park."


    Vito followed easily, hanging his head as he wondered if this was how it all ended¡ªdying in an empty parking lot.


    He thought about what would happen to his family, who might attend his funeral, but most of all, he wondered if he was heading straight for hell.


    "Please wait, I-"


    *BAM*


    Vito attempted to turn his head, but a fist crashed into his eye socket with brutal force.


    The knuckles shattered his zygomatic bone, sending small fractures splintering through his skull. His eyes rolled back, and darkness swiftly consumed him.


    However, before his head could fall forward onto the horn, the man behind him reached forward, grabbing his collar and pulling him back, revealing that familiar figure to be Ricky.


    "I thought the plan was to use Chester to turn him, I am confused?" Alexander popped out of Ricky''s shirt pocket, scratching his head in confusion.


    "Alexander is right. Although I am still influencing Rockefeller, his mind has deteriorated so much that it''s become insignificant at best." Chester glanced toward Ricky, who stood with his ominous Necromniam hovering beside him.


    "Can you do this another five times in a row, not counting this one?" Ricky asked Chester, raising an eyebrow as the crow beside him opened and closed its beak.


    "Not in a row, no." Chester admitted, watching the hovering book flip to a page inscribed with Ricky''s blood.


    "Then are you going to use some sort of spell?" Chester wondered, pointing his wing towards the book as Ricky shook his head.


    "But wouldn''t that boss notice a change in behavior, especially in a time of peril?" Alexander wondered out loud, the familiar making Ricky sigh as he held up his hand that glowed in a faint green hue.


    "First of all, it is a spell but it doesn''t change his behavior-well, ok it sort of does." Ricky was about to refute Alexander before changing his words, thinking about it a little more.


    "Basically, this spell creates a body double while he''s asleep, forming another consciousness that follows the orders I implant." Ricky explained, hovering his hand above Vito as green energy seeped into his face.


    "It''ll be up and watching everything Vito does, then when he goes to sleep it will take control of his body and call Lucky while feeding him information." Ricky waved his finger, smiling at his plan but the two familiar side-eyed each other.


    "This seems too easy."


    "I concur."


    The two familiar weren''t convinced, looking at Ricky since his words made it seem almost too easy.


    "The plan''s full proof, ask away, I can take it." Ricky gestured towards him, smirking at the two familiars who raised their eyebrows at his taunt.


    "Does the spell need to be reapplied-"


    "No, I asked my baby momma for the one that uses life force to sustain the conscience." Ricky raised his chin to Chester, already preparing for this one.


    "Wouldn''t there be changes to the personality traits of those affected? And wouldn''t someone like Joe be on edge enough to notice this?" Chester asked, considering that someone as perceptive and psychotic as Joe would be suspicious of any sudden changes in behavior.


    "First of all, the only thing that changes is the sleep patterns and even if it did change them to any degree, I''m not going after any of Joe''s direct hands." Ricky laughed out, looking at Vito with a widening smile.


    "This is Vito DeLuca, the right hand of Joe''s right hand." Ricky chuckled out, Chester looking at Vito since he knew that the name rang a faint bell rather than a direct one.


    "Will the spell function long enough and if it does, how do you know someone won''t detect it?" Alexander wondered, walking up to his shoulder and crossing his paws.


    "Uh, I doubt they have any magic users within their families since the mafia families are really hateful towards that stuff and it should last like a year but I won''t need that long." Ricky honestly wasn''t sure if the families could detect magic, but even so, this type of magic couldn''t be traced back to him.


    "So you lied." Chester crossed his wings as Ricky scoffed, finishing the spell before healing the injuries he inflicted onto Vito.


    "I didn''t lie, I''m just not a hundred percent sure-"


    "Seems very irresponsible to say something is full proof when, in fact, it isn''t. What do you think, Alexander?" Chester looked over at Alexander who raised his furry chin, smirking at Ricky who frowned.


    "I concur." Alexander smugly said, both familiar giving him a look that read complete victory as it showed his plan wasn''t completely full proof as he previously stated.


    "I concur~" Ricky mocked under his breath, spewing out a hateful whisper before finishing as he exited the car.


    "There, there, Ricky. Not everyone can muster up full proof plans." Alexander tapped his paw on Ricky''s cheek, rubbing it in his face in the metaphorical and literal sense.


    "Exactly, in fact, your efforts in thinking this far is more than commendable." Chester landed on his other chester, patting his slicked back hair with his wing.


    "You guys suck." Ricky hatefully spewed out, annoyed that his mood was trampled on this easily as he suddenly took off into the air with his wings.


    "But it is a good first step, information and being one step ahead is always crucial in times of war, remember that." Alexander was serious this time, commending Ricky''s efforts as Chester soared in the air next to him.


    "Alexander is right, it is good to get a handle on the internal factors of the family instead of rushing in, though a more thought of plan would have made me more at ease." Chester gave a passive aggressive jab towards Ricky, his eyebrow twitching in annoyance at this remark.


    "Don''t you f*cking say it Alexander-"


    "I concur." Alexander triumphantly spoke out before Ricky could finish, leaving the man flying in the air incredibly annoyed.


    "Screw you guys."


    While Ricky implanted body doubles into the minds of the six right-hand men, he had to endure the incessant, insufferable nagging of his familiars before finally completing the task.


    Opening the door to Alina''s bedroom, Ricky found her curled up under a soft glow from her nightlight, engrossed in a book and as she looked up at him, her expression shifting to surprise.


    "Ricky, are you alright?" Alina asked, watching him slump onto the bed and collapse face-first into the mattress.


    "I got f*cking bullied by a gerbil and a crow," Ricky muttered, his face buried in the sheets as his attempt to be the bully had backfired completely, leaving him to eat his words the entire night.


    "O-Oh?" Alina murmured uncertainty, not fully understanding but tentatively cooing at Ricky as he crawled onto the bed, burying his face into her ample bosom before letting out a heavy sigh.


    "Is there anything I can do to make you feel better?" Alina asked, slowly stroking his hair as he dug his face into her chest.


    "No." Ricky sighed, feeling her motherly warmth before they simply sat there in silence.


    "A blowjob might make me feel a little better, if I''m being honest."


    Next day,


    Throughout the day after spending time with Alina, Ricky meticulously rehearsed his speech, preparing what he would say with Alexander coaching him through it.


    "No, no, no, you have to connect with the person in front of you, to the people listening, simply telling them isn''t enough, you have to show them, guide them." Alexander explained next to Chester, who nodded agreeing wholeheartedly with his little rodent friend.


    "You need to show your sincerity, Ricky, people won''t respond otherwise. Humans resonate with emotions, not words." Chester gave his advice as Garfield lounged at the side with a sigh.


    However, instead of giving some half-hearted response, Garfield sighed, his mood already in the dumps, it was Monday, after all.


    The lawsuit was ready, but the real problem lay in finding a lead counsel since no one they approached was willing to touch the case, not even with a three-foot pole.


    That was their biggest issue: finding someone brave enough to step into the hostile public eye and challenge the established way of life.


    Ricky decided to put the search for lead counsel on hold until after he made his speech.


    He believed that his words could reach a wider audience, potentially tricking someone who genuinely cared about civil rights, rather than relying on high-profile lawyers motivated purely by money since that didn''t even work in the first place.


    The main problem was that Alexander believed Ricky needed to deliver this speech on his own as if he truly wanted to connect, relying on a dual link wouldn''t be enough.


    *Sigh*


    "I''m f*cking trying; it''s just hard for me to show my troubles as a mutant since, you know, everyone loves me." Ricky sighed, flashing a cheesy smile and all his familiars rolled their eyes at him in unison, clearly unimpressed.


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    "Pops, you said I had thirty more-"


    "It''s Jake."


    *Bam*


    Ricky exploded through the door but quickly regained his composure, flying toward it and throwing it open and to his surprise, Jake stood there, holding his hat firmly beneath his ducked head.


    Instead of the shivering corpse he had seemed moments before, Jake had eaten the senzu bean and regained his vitality, standing tall and surprisingly refreshed.


    Looking up at Ricky, Jake was too ashamed to meet his eyes as he quickly glanced down again, his grip tightening around his hat.


    Jake felt ashamed, not for asking for help, but because he was approaching Ricky the same way he had before, trying to make things right, only to have spat in his face.


    Ricky stood there, enduring every ounce of ridicule, as Jake lashed out at him, his anger seething and through it all, Ricky simply smiled and nodded, taking it all in without a word.


    "I-I''m sorry-" Jake began, his voice cracking as tears welled up but before he could say more, Ricky jumped down and pulled him into the biggest man hug he could muster.


    "Welcome back, buddy." Ricky said with a laugh, patting Jake''s back as he sniffled and let out a shaky breath.


    "I-I want to get clean, for real," Jake confessed, his voice vulnerable as they pulled apart before Ricky gave his shoulder a reassuring pat.


    "And that''s what we''re gonna do, Jake," Ricky said with a grin, his tone light but firm. "But there''s no turning back. I wasn''t joking about letting you return; I was gonna go get your ass and drag you back here myself if you didn''t show up." Ricky laughed heartily, clearly in the best of moods, while Jake nodded in agreement.


    "Ricky, you should really start prepping-"


    "You know what, Alexander, I''ve been planning so much stuff out, I think it''d be out of character if I didn''t wing at least one thing," Ricky said, glancing at his shoulder as the gerbil sighed and he hopped off Ricky''s shoulder only for Chester to scoop him up.


    "It is how you say ''Your funeral''." Alexander shrugged, watching Ricky bring Jake into the mansion with a small smile.


    "What happened when you were away, Alexander?" Chester asked, glancing back as they soared through the skies.


    "Well, it all started when we reached the Vatican and Ricky had to go into this cave-"


    While Alexander explained everything from his own point of view, Ricky relaxed with Jake and the gang.


    "You still play this?" Jake laughed, watching Ricky shuffle the cards as he then looked over at Chores, giving him a friendly pat on the shoulder.


    "Good to have you back, Jake." Chores merely shrugged at his words, laughing while welcoming him back into the fold.


    "Yeah, Jake, it''s really good to see you," Barko smiled, his voice warm as it had been a long time since he last saw him.


    "It''s good to be back, guys."


    "Oh how rude of me, I''m Jake Lankey." Jake saw Asterion seated next to him as the minotaur in his human form, looking at him with a warm smile.


    "I''ve heard much tales of you Jake The Lankey One, these trials that you''ve faced will only make you stronger, so do not yield to the pain but push through it and you''ll come out stronger on the other side." Asterion gave his advice to Jake, seeing himself in the troubled man before him and patting his shoulder.


    "Now, let us play this Go of Fish."


    20 minutes later,


    "It looks like I am the victor once again." Asterion said politely, setting down his pair of jacks. The rest of the group let out aggrieved sighs, clearly not thrilled by his winning streak.


    "Where''d you even find this guy, Slick?" Jake held his forehead, the others aggrieved as well since this was becoming a common courtesy.


    "In a cave." Ricky sighed, taking the cards back as he realized it was time.


    "Seriously?"


    "Seriously."


    "Oh yeah, Asterion, could you look after Danille while we''re gone? Just give her piggyback rides or something," Ricky asked, knowing Asterion was the strongest and Barko was the most reasonable.


    "I shall assist the princess." Asterion responded resolutely, heading off to find the cute girl and do the same tricks he used to do with his own child.


    Ricky had full faith in the sovereign of all Minotaurs as they headed to the car, walking alongside Lucky.


    "Everything is prepared, Slick," Lucky said, his tone serious. "I pulled a lot of strings to arrange this conference, so you better make it count." Lucky patted his ivory cane onto Ricky''s chest, going out of his way for this one as Ricky smirked.


    "Oh, I will."


    At Times Square, countless reporters gathered for the speech about to be given by the heir to Lucky Legacy Bank and its parent company, Luciano Industries.


    Everyone in New York knew that Ricky had returned after three years away as the radios were tuned in, and intrigued citizens listened in while they turned up the volume.


    This case was also the same for two particular people in queens, standing at their own radios, paying close attention.


    "Oh, come on, Steve, don''t tell me you''re still mad," Bucky sighed, seeing the skinny Steve dressing up for his job at the soda shop.


    "He hurt people, Bucky, he''s caused so much grief," Steve looked at Bucky with sorrowful eyes before turning away.


    "I know he was our friend, but people change in ways we don''t approve of, and although I''m glad he''s well, I''m disappointed at what he became." Steve lowered his eyes, wishing that Ricky walked down the path that was rooted in just and good instead of succumbing to the temptations of what he is now.


    "So if you''ll excuse me, I''m already late," Steve said, walking out of the apartment they rented together and Bucky sighed, but turned up the radio.


    "Ricky Luciano, heir to Lucky Legacy Bank, is set to make a stunning revelation that is said to knock America off its socks!"


    While the radio announcer narrated the scene, interested viewers from not only America but other countries tuned in as well, including a woman at a hotel bar.


    Stirring the ends of her drink, she rested her gorgeous smile on her hand, her eyes fixed on the radio with a warm expression.


    "I wonder if you really have the balls." The girl chuckled, her eyes glinting yellow, reflecting Raven in disguise.


    "Ah! There is the man of the hour, Ricky Luciano," the narrator noted as Ricky Luciano stepped out of the car, waving at everyone trying to shout questions his way.


    However, he ignored the constant barrage, walking confidently up to the podium, his eyes briefly meeting Lucky''s, who merely nodded in return.


    "Alright, settle down, settle down." Ricky motioned, laughing as he beckoned to the crowd hungry for answers.


    "I know all of you are here for answers to your curiosity, and today, I will finally quench them," Ricky said, his voice steady and confident as he looked into the horizon of people.


    "And I know that when going about this type of thing, you''d usually prepare a speech, but honestly, I didn''t think it would be right to go about something like this through a notecard." Ricky laughed, his tone light as some in the crowd chuckled, while others raised an eyebrow, unsure if he was serious.


    "Because a speech, something formal, wouldn''t be enough to really describe how I felt, three years ago." Ricky continued, his voice growing more serious, the casual tone slipping away as the crowd quieted, sensing the shift in his demeanor.


    In this exact moment, when Ricky uttered these words, Dewey stood up from his chair, pressing his hands onto the table, his eyes narrowing as he stared daggers at the radio.


    Meanwhile, Franklin D. Roosevelt, his back to the room, stood by the window, his hand resting on the sill, his mind deep in thought.


    The tension in the room grew palpable, as both men felt the weight of Ricky''s words ripple through the airwaves.


    "Three years ago, I was chased out of New York because I, Ricky Luciano, am a mutant." Ricky''s words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of their truth.


    Gasps and stunned silence rippled through the crowd, and the room seemed to freeze as if time itself had momentarily stopped.


    The revelation sent shockwaves, the kind of knowledge that had only been shared behind closed doors, in hushed whispers among the elite and powerful.


    To most, it was a secret kept hidden in the shadows, but now, Ricky had laid it bare for the world to hear.


    "SON OF A B*TCH!" Dewey roared, his fists slamming down onto his desk with such force that the papers scattered like leaves in a storm.


    His face twisted in rage as he understood the implications of Ricky''s confession and without a second thought, he stormed out of his office, the door slamming behind him, his mind already racing with plans to protect his interests, but most of all, to get his full revenge.


    In that hotel bar, Raven''s breath caught in her throat as the words Ricky had spoken echoed in her mind, reverberating through her chest.


    She stood slowly, her body frozen in disbelief while gripping the radio tightly, she pulled it closer, the static hum filling the room as she tried to comprehend the significance of what she had just heard.


    "Only a few people knew about it, and for a time, I was ashamed," Ricky lied smoothly, weaving the words with a calculated sincerity, aiming to evoke sympathy from his audience.


    "I was ashamed because all my life, I was told that just because I was a mutant, I''d never be good enough, that I''d always be a devil''s spawn, that I would never be as worthy as a regular man." Ricky''s words hung heavy in the air, making Bucky choke on his breath.


    At the soda counter, Steve immediately looked down, the weight of the statement settling deep in his chest.


    "But even though I''m a mutant, and even though I was always told I was lesser, I''m still an American citizen," Ricky continued, his voice firm but laced with the bitter edge of his past.


    "And that means I have every right to stand here, to speak out, and to be treated just like anyone else." Ricky gestured towards the crowd that didn''t know what to think of this revelation, confusion and an unease settling in their eyes.


    "I know that you all look at me through a different lens now, through a different image, one that''s been taught to us since we were kids," Ricky said, his voice steady despite the tension in the air.


    "But I ask you, really think about what you thought of me before all of this came to light. Ask yourselves if this label, if my being a mutant, makes me any less than what I am right here, right now." Ricky scanned the crowd, unflinching, even as the glares intensified, a sea of suspicion and disdain aimed at him.


    "Three years ago, my Fourth Amendment rights were violated." Ricky continued, his voice growing more serious.


    "District Attorney Dewey revealed this fact, the one that I''m a mutant, to the border police. They had me cuffed, arrested, and thrown in county prison." Ricky''s words hit the audience at the accusation, eyes widened and scrunching with varying emotions while most were in shock, disbelief rippling through the crowd.


    Even those who had been skeptical before now began to question what they had thought they knew as the original reason for him leaving in the first place as the square became even quieter than before.


    In the white house, Franklin D. Roosevelt, watching the radio intently in his office, he tightened his grip on the armrest, his brow furrowing as the implications of Ricky''s revelation began to sink in.


    "That is why, as of ten minutes ago, I have filed a lawsuit against the United States government for violating my civil rights, for 20 million dollars."


    A collective gasp rippled through the crowd, both in the plaza and across the airwaves as the audacity of Ricky''s move left everyone in stunned silence.


    They couldn''t believe it, not just that Ricky was suing the government, but for an astronomical amount of twenty million dollars.


    The sheer magnitude of the sum, on top of the principle, sent shockwaves through the room.


    In homes across the country, radios crackled with disbelief, listeners exchanging hushed words as they absorbed the weight of the revelation.


    This was no ordinary lawsuit; this was a declaration of war.


    "Today I don''t simply stand before you as Ricky Luciano, a proud son, and an American citizen, but as a mutant; since that''s all you see me as now, and that''s fine." Ricky''s voice carried with a mixture of resolve and defiance, his eyes scanning the crowd, meeting the glare of those who judged him without a second thought.


    Ricky could feel the weight of their stares, but he held his ground, unflinching.


    "But I will be fighting for my civil rights, to finally be treated the way any other American citizen would be. Thank you, that is all." Ricky spat out the final lies with a practiced ease, suppressing the urge to laugh at the absurdity of it all.


    It was the sheer absurdity of his words that made Ricky feel as though his laughter would erupt at any moment.


    To keep his composure, he turned on his heel and made a swift exit, the weight of his own deceit almost too much to bear.


    The moment his back was turned, the reporters erupted into a chaotic frenzy, a tsunami of questions crashing down on him.


    Flashes from cameras illuminated the scene, broken flash bulbs covering the ground to give their shots a better hue, blinding him as he was hurriedly escorted into the van.


    The press was relentless, but Lucky stood at the ready, his eyes filled with a mixture of caution and concern.


    He opened the door to the car, nodding at Ricky with a tentative look, knowing all too well what kind of storm they were about to face.


    "There ain''t going back now kiddo, you ready for this battle." Lucky asked, knowing that Ricky had shut off any means of a peaceful and quiet life as he got into the car.


    "Pops, I''m ready for the war." Ricky laughed, leaning back while the car started riving through the droves of journalists pouring all around them.


    "Then let''s ensemble the war council."


    Meanwhile at the white house,


    *Knock*


    *Knock*


    "Come in."


    Dewey walked into the Oval Office, his footsteps echoing in the otherwise quiet room.


    As he approached, the chair behind the desk slowly spun around to reveal the current president, Franklin D. Roosevelt, who leaned back in his chair, his piercing gaze fixed on Dewey.


    "I''m sure you''re well aware of the mess you''ve caused." Roosevelt said, his voice steady but laced with tension, staring at the root of it all.


    Dewey ducked his head, a wave of unease washing over him as he shifted uncomfortably under the president''s stare.


    "Yes, Mr. President." Dewey could only bite his lip, knowing that he was on thin ice as it was and didn''t want to push his luck.


    "I honestly want to throw you under the bus and resolve this matter, but I''ve decided against it in light of another factor," Roosevelt continued, his voice unwavering. He raised his gaze, his presence seeming to tower over Dewey as he squinted his eyes, narrowing them with a calculating look.


    "You''ve done more than just stir up a political hornet''s nest, Dewey. You''ve made this personal, you''ve made it my business." Franklin fist gripped tightly, incredibly annoyed but kept hsi emotions in check.


    "Now, it is war, Dewey, on our great nation and that man has finally waged war, and this is the first battle." Franklin''s eyes stared dead ahead at him, his mere gaze shriveling Dewey where he stood.


    "The case was filed in Texas, this is your mess and for these last three years you''ve been in the doghouse, but if you win..." Franklin let his word hang in the air, letting Dewey''s imagination run wild before he was on the president''s hook.


    "Then everything you lost will be reinstated, you''ll be sent back to New York, and you''ll have full reign from my administration to take down the Luciano family and the Commission." Franklin assured him, leaning forward and placing his interlocked fingers in front of his face.


    "But if you lose, you''re done, gone." Franklin''s words were ice cold, reflecting Dewey built his resolve and finally faced the man who almost cost him his career.


    "Do you understand?" Franklin asked without asking, forcing Dewey to give him the only answer he wanted to hear.


    "Yes Mr. President, I won''t let you down." Dewey looked Franklin right in the eye, desperate to do whatever it took to reclaim everything he lost.


    "Then get out of here and don''t come back until you win or don''t come back at all."


    Meanwhile in the southern part of California,


    Bursting out of the hotel, Raven had a disbelieving smile while rushing towards the street as the memory of Ricky resurfaced through her mind.


    "TAXI!" Raven shouted, her voice cutting through the noise as a car screeched to a halt, and she quickly slipped inside.


    "What do you need, darling?" the taxi driver asked, glancing back only to have a crumpled dollar bill thrust into his face.


    "Here''s a twenty, get me to the airport in the fastest way possible." Raven was in a hurry, still showing a wry smile after remembering that stupid sleazy smile of his.


    "You got it."


    Meanwhile in a darkened room,


    Long black nails traced the seams of the radio before her, a subtle gesture that hinted at the influence she wielded in all matters of mutant affairs.


    A sly smile, accentuated by her black lipstick, curved across her lips as she tapped the hardwood table rhythmically.


    Her luminous purple irises gleamed, drawing attention as she fixed her gaze ahead, exuding an aura of calculated confidence.


    "It seems that the Hellfire club needs to be assembled."


    Meanwhile at Yale University,


    *SIGH*


    "Seriously Ricky." Henry leaned back, setting down his text book to rub his forehead.


    "And you, we have a meeting in ten minutes!" Henry threw his book at a hungover and currently sleeping, putting his head up.


    "Huh, wha-oh, hey Henry-"


    "DON''T HEY HENRY ME-"


    *Sigh*


    "God, you remind me just enough of Ricky to piss me off." Henry laughed out, wiping his mouth before looking at the guy scratching his chin.


    "The mutant, right?" The guy asked, resting his head on his hand while looking at the radio.


    "Listen Howard, if there''s one thing that I learned about Ricky is one thing." Henry held up one finger, standing up and adjusting his sigil that had a skull and bones on it.


    "Nothing is as simple as you think it''s going to be, the guy is a walking trouble magnet but you''ll find that out soon." Henry adjusted his attire only for Howard to laugh, leaning back in his chair.


    "You can''t be serious, the stuffy jerks won''t even consider letting him into the club much less the university-"


    "You don''t get it, none of you do." Henry looked back at Howard, staring him dead in the eyes as the party boy scoffed.


    "The winds of change are blowing and they''re blowing in his favor." Henry walked towards a bookcase, pulling down a book and revealing a secret passageway.


    "You''re so dramatic." Howard sighed, lugging himself up before following Henry into the secret tunnel before the bookcase closed behind him.


    Later that afternoon,


    "Honey, you can''t be serious." The woman said, rubbing her eyes in disbelief.


    She watched as the man, sporting a pencil-thin mustache, meticulously adjusted his suit, his expression unbothered.


    "Baby, I''m as serious as ever." The man replied with a sly smile, adjusting his tie and straightening his posture as he admired himself in the mirror.


    "Don''t tell me it has to do with that mutant-"


    "Baby, don''t you see? It''s more than that!" The man stepped closer to his wife, dropping to his knees and gently taking her hands in his.


    "Do you remember those nights we dreamed together? The nights we talked about a world where our children wouldn''t have to worry about whether they''d be given a fair chance because of the color of their skin?" The man held her hands tenderly, lightly pecking her hands with his lips before looking up at her concerned face.


    "I do, but in none of those talks did we ever mention how a mutant is going to change that." She replied, her voice tinged with skepticism.


    "Because, baby, this is classified as a civil rights case." He said, his tone firm yet hopeful as he seemingly looked into the distance.


    "And with every civil rights case, there''s precedent, something to build on. That''s how the law works." The man then stood up, puffing out his chest with a determined resolve.


    "If this passes, imagine the good it''ll do against the racism festering in this nation, this can make a difference, be the difference." He said, his voice charged with conviction.


    "Even so, he''s still a white boy. How are you going to convince him?" She countered, crossing her arms skeptically and raising an eyebrow, watching the man turn around with a smirk while spreading his arms.


    "Baby, I''m Thurgood Marshall, and Thurgood Marshall''s gonna get this case."


    Later that Night,


    "So, that''s how Henry met his end?" Chester murmured, his gaze fixed on the unmarked grave.


    They had waited for this moment, for the grave to be specially prepared to hold this solemn ceremony, this funeral.


    "Yeah." Ricky stood at the side, the moonlight shining down on the grave marked with the words he picked out himself.


    ''Here lies Henry, the bravest chatterbox''


    *SIGH*


    Garfield sighed out heavily, not even sparing a few words but instead a single rose while placing it at the foot of the tombstone before mopping back.


    Out of everyone gathered around the grave, the one who showed the most emotion wasn''t Ricky, but Alexander.


    The general, the hero of humanity, the one who has never known defeat in combat has once again had the privilege of burying another comrade.


    The tales of the strongest, those who endure until the end, are written in the burdens they carry and the bodies of their friends they lay to rest.


    Alexander has had the privilege or the burden to survive this far, but the weight is as heavy as the corpses that lay beneath his feet.


    "You were brave, you were mighty." Alexander paid his respect, his tiny paws gripping tightly while looking at the empty grave of his familiar-in-arms.


    "The world is cruel Ricky, many think life is just and noble but it is something that can wisp away in the snap of a finger." Alexander''s voice carried, gazing at the tombstone as the others around him remained silent.


    "It will never get easier, you must steel your heart Ricky, for more death lay ahead and more graves to dig." Alexander then slowly walked to the side, needing a moment to himself.


    "Because in war, there are no victors." Alexander walked towards the side before slowly turning towards the serious Ricky.


    "Only losers."


    Author''s Note: Once again, just wanna make sure those reading know that I forgot to add some stuff on Chapter 115 and I feel like an idiot but I was so tired yesterday that I spaced it hard.

 Chapter 118: Chapter 114: Plans for the future Part 2

    Chapter 118: Chapter 114: Plans for the future Part 2


    ?


    Later that night,


    Arriving at the house, he was greeted by complete darkness and as he stepped inside, he peeked into Danielle''s room before quietly shutting the door.


    In the shadowy, narrow mansion, one light stood out, a faint glow emanating from Lucky''s office as he made his way toward it and opened the door.


    "You''ve been busy." Lucky''s voice was calm as he poured himself a glass of bourbon as he didn''t look up at Ricky until the glass was filled, his gaze sharp and deliberate.


    "Listen-"


    "Hey, Luciano''s look after their own. Don''t apologize for that." Lucky raised his hand, signaling for silence, before taking a slow sip of his bourbon.


    His eyes stayed fixed on Ricky, who sank into the chair in front of the desk with a heavy sigh, taking a load off.


    "So, how is he?" Lucky finally asked, knowing that Ricky must''ve found Jake after seeing Meyer earlier today.


    Meyer was usually a bundle of nerves, his frustration mounting with each failed attempt to track down Jake.


    But today was different since when he returned, there was a rare lightness in his step and a relieved smile that hinted at a breakthrough.


    "Bad Lucky, he''s in a real bad place right now and I''m just trying-"


    "You want some advice, Slick." Lucky stopped Ricky, holding up a glass as he took it with a stressed expression.


    "Sometimes, you can''t help someone unless they''re willing to help themselves. Being there is one thing, but destroying yourself over it is something else entirely." Lucky''s voice was steady, his thumb tracing the rim of his glass. Lucky spoke with the weight of someone who knew all too well how deep and dangerous that rabbit hole could go.


    "I know you blame yourself for Jake, I mean you have a hand to blame, but Jake is a grown ass man and you never forced him to do anything." Lucky reminded Ricky, knowing that he was shouldering too much of the blame for Jake.


    It was true Ricky had played a part in where Jake ended up, but he had never forced him, never put that needle in his arm.


    Jake had chosen to walk down that grim path of self-destruction and Lucky wasn''t about to stand by and let Ricky shoulder the blame or exhaust himself trying to pick up all the pieces.


    "It''s irresponsible to take all the blame yourself, it affects the business." Lucky eyes were serious, gazing at Ricky with piercing eyes.


    "You came back and told me you were ready. Well, being ready means making choices, tough ones," Lucky said, his voice firm as he pointed at Ricky.


    His gaze was stern, carrying an unspoken command: don''t let this one issue control you entirely.


    "Alright, Pops, I know you didn''t wait around just to talk about Jake. Get to the point." Ricky said, cutting through Lucky''s diversion as he leaned back, watching as Lucky sighed and met his gaze.


    "Slick, I know you''re ambitious, and I know the whole plan was for you to gain the church''s acceptance." Lucky began, his tone weighted with hesitation as he didn''t know how to properly convey his words.


    "But this lawsuit? It''s different, the government is different." Lucky words hung in the air, the reluctance in his voice making it clear he understood the government wouldn''t be so easy to sway.


    "Convincing people is easy, convincing an entity however, is nearly impossible." Lucky leaned forward, setting his glass to the side as he focused his entire presence on talking with Ricky.


    "I see what you''re trying to do, force the government''s hand and keep them from interfering, but by doing this we''re putting our entire livelihood at risk." Lucky said, cutting straight to the heart of the matter as his tone was firm, laying it all out while Ricky stayed silent, letting him speak. "We''ve got a really good thing going; the bank, our growing assets, hell, even the family is thriving with what we''ve built." Lucky began, his tone steady but laced with caution, showing Ricky as he spread out his hands. "But it doesn''t stop there. The Commission might''ve been harsh about you being a mutant, but once the government starts a slander campaign against you, this won''t stop with exile but a complete crucifixion of your character." Lucky tried to explain, knowing that the government''s reach expanded all across the country and they would rile up the people against him.


    "Doing this, putting yourself out there as a mutant, it won''t make anything easier, even with God on your side," Lucky said, knowing how far Ricky had come, but this new enemy wasn''t one defined by physical strength.


    "You''re going down a path of no return because Slick, this doesn''t stop with a simple honorary position." Lucky couldn''t hide how stressed he was when gazing at Ricky, his tone seemingly unconvinced since even he couldn''t stand against the U.S government.


    "It only stops with a winner and a loser," Lucky said, raising both hands as if to emphasize the point as his eyes locked onto Ricky''s, making it clear that there was no middle ground, only one outcome mattered.


    "This path goes against a different type of enemy, one that doesn''t rely on brute strength, but on public interest and the people." Lucky paused, looking down briefly, as if weighing the implications of his words.


    "A public interest that''s been carefully controlled and twisted to serve the goals of the U.S. government," Lucky finished, his voice laced with finality and as he leaned back, his eyes studying Ricky intently.


    Ricky nodded thoughtfully, his expression unwavering as he prepared to respond after letting Lucky talk without interruption.


    "Am I your heir?" Ricky asked, his voice steady but carrying a hint of uncertainty and Lucky raised an eyebrow, a look of disbelief crossing his face, as if the question itself was absurd.


    "Is this some sort of joke?"


    "Have I brought up your nose hairs?" Ricky asked with a playful smile as Lucky shot him a look, a chuckle escaping his lips.


    "Yes, you''re my heir." Lucky agreed, but it was then that Ricky leaned in, his expression shifting.


    "Then what is it that you want from me as your heir, what is it that I''m supposed to achieve after taking up the position?" Ricky seemingly asked a question that Lucky already knew the answer to, frowning slightly but playing


    along.


    "Taking the Luciano family to new heights." Lucky said, gesturing to Ricky as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.


    "For everything to work, for me to take the reins of the next generation as a mutant, I need to clear the obstacles that have been in place to hold me back for centuries." Ricky tried to explain, pausing to find the proper words until he looked back at Lucky.


    "Simply living a quiet life isn''t an option anymore since I don''t know if you know this, but I am a walking trouble magnet." Ricky laughed slightly, pointing to himself as everything he did seemed to attract eyes.


    "It feels like everywhere I go, everything I do, trouble and chaos follow, so when I tell you, really tell you, that this is the only way I can take the family to new heights, I mean it, pops. I''m serious." Ricky spoke with conviction, his tone unwavering as Lucky remained silent.


    "Look you see this?" Ricky pulled out Dracula''s diary, waving it in front of


    Lucky before handing it to him.


    "This is Dracula Tepes diary-"


    "I thought only schoolgirls kept diaries?" Lucky asked, raising an eyebrow and Ricky laughed, leaning back as he shot a look at Lucky.


    "I know, right? He literally rambles on about his feelings for like half of it-" Ricky trailed off, mocking Dracula, then suddenly stopped as he realized what he was doing and quickly composed himself.


    *Cough*


    "Look at the bookmarked pages, the parts about him talking about him were


    revealed to the public but instead of hiding away, he embraced the attention." Ricky pointed his finger to a certain section, watching Lucky scan the pages with a weird expression.


    "Dracula talks about how, at first, his reveal to the public was supposed to spread fear and unite people against the idea. Had the same effect for his own kind." Ricky explained, having read the diary''s contents thoroughly. Ricky was serious about this, about showing himself to the public even from day one, but after reading the diary, this haphazard and boisterous plan started to feel more calculated.


    Ricky was actually thinking of using this chance, the one where the government would surely shine a nationwide spotlight on him.


    Whether it was with good intentions or bad, they were giving him the stage,


    and with it, he was going to do one thing.


    "I''m going to become the mutant messiah motherf*cker." Ricky declared, spreading his arms wide as Lucky gave him a weird look, clearly unsure whether to take him seriously or not.


    "The what?" Lucky laughed out, registering his words only for Ricky to be


    actually serious.


    "Think about it, I''m literally the perfect guy for this. I mean, look at me," Ricky said, gesturing toward the mirror.


    "I don''t have any physical deformities, my ability doesn''t make me look any different from the average Joe, and I literally fit the criteria of the average white American man." Ricky walked over to the mirror, his eyes now on Lucky, who rubbed his chin thoughtfully.


    "What''s more, I don''t give three f*cks if someone hates me. I can take the


    onslaught of hate, and literally no one could kill me. I can be a mutant Jesus without the dying part!" Ricky said excitedly, while Lucky, clearly overwhelmed, rubbed his forehead.


    "Dracula said it best ''The very public display of our enmity with Van Helsing has, rather than diminishing me, elevated my status, transforming me into a symbol of resilience and defiance'' and if the government does the same, why can''t I be the Dracula of mutants?" Ricky seemingly asked Lucky who held up his hand, stopping his headache from forming.


    "What does this have to do with you elevating the family?" Lucky asked, gazing at Ricky with an unconvinced look.


    "I know it''s not set in stone, but say I win, say I crush the government and


    win this case." Ricky spoke in hypotheticals, pacing back to Lucky, his words


    charged with intensity.


    "Instead of being isolated by hate, I''ll become this mutant symbol and


    because of it, other mutants will flock to someone who represents who they are." Ricky then rubbed his hands, Lucky almost realizing in that moment.


    "You want to induct mutants into the family with a perceived notion of loyalty and admiration which would form into-"


    "The perfect soldier for the family." Ricky slammed his hands down onto the


    table, rising above the occasion.


    "Think about it-imagine mutants, witches, and warlocks, all inducted into the family and brought into our traditions," Ricky said, clenching his fist


    before his smile slowly turned carnivorous as he envisioned it all before


    him.


    "A powered mob, a family that doesn''t just swallow up all of New York but spreads like a f*cking plague across the globe," Ricky said, nearly laughing as he pictured the Luciano family sinking its roots deep, infiltrating every


    corner of the world.


    "I''ve brought witches and warlocks, I''ve brought a f*cking demi-god minotaur


    and pops, I got what it takes to bring people in. I just gotta show them I''m the right guy to follow and this is how I do it!" Ricky said excitedly, his


    eyes burning with conviction as he knew this fight with the government wasn''t just about proving he could beat them, but about showing everyone that he was someone capable of playing the same game and still winning.


    Being a leader, being the person at the top, is more than just a display of raw strength or the ability to dominate those around you.


    It''s not about standing alone at the peak, with the world below you, basking


    in your power.


    Instead, it''s about having the vision and the skill to guide others; your people, your family, to greater heights.


    Leadership at its core is about elevating everyone you lead, helping them achieve success, and creating opportunities where none existed before. It''s about getting them to greener pastures, to more prosperous places in


    life that offer stability, growth, and security.


    It''s about finding a way forward, even when the road is difficult, even when the path is arduous, and bringing others along with you on that journey.


    A true leader knows that power isn''t just measured by strength, but by the


    ability to shape the future for those who follow.


    "And I know what you''re about to say, I know about the war brewing." Ricky


    looked back at Lucky''s serious gaze, knowing all too well what was forming in Germany.


    "I know about the Nazi''s, hell, I even know about those back the Nazi''s." Ricky shot Lucky a confident smirk, making it clear he was ready for whatever


    came next.


    "I''m not only going to force the government''s hand, elevate the family, but I''m also going to force my admission into west point." Ricky revealed confidently to Lucky who widened his eyes.


    Lucky still saw Ricky through the lens of who he had been three years ago; arrogant, reckless, and nai?ve.


    That image didn''t just vanish overnight.


    It was hard for him to shake the feeling that Ricky was leaping headfirst


    into something without fully understanding the consequences.


    But Ricky wasn''t the same impulsive kid he had been as he had spent years


    training, honing his body, preparing for the inevitable war, but not only that, he had honed his mind.


    Ricky knew that World War II was coming, and he had studied the outcome,


    mulling over how to approach this with the knowledge he already had.


    What most people would see as a disaster, Ricky saw as an opportunity as he wasn''t planning to sit idly by; he was determined to be at the forefront, ready to seize what others couldn''t.


    This wasn''t just about power for Ricky anymore, it was about shaping the


    future.


    He wasn''t fully aware of it yet, but his desire for power was merging with an insatiable drive for politics.


    This, in its own way, was the first step toward something even bigger,


    something that would set him on a path he hadn''t yet begun to realize. "Slick you can''t-"


    "No Pops, this is something that I-"


    "No, dumbass, I mean it''s against the continental rules." Lucky emphasized,


    his tone serious as he brought up a point Ricky hadn''t considered. Ricky frowned, confused, and glanced around the room before reaching into his


    wallet, his mind still processing the weight of Lucky''s words. "Three years ago, you gave me this card and never explained anything about


    it." Ricky pulled out the sleek black card that read ''The Continental'' and slid it across the desk.


    "You told me that if I was ever in trouble, I should go there and ask for a trial membership, but you never said anything more." Ricky''s gaze locked onto Lucky, the image of him drunkenly stumbling on a Tuesday fading away, revealing the man standing in front of him now; focused, serious, and entirely different.


    "What is it about that place you''re not telling me, pops? What''s so special


    about it, and why do I keep hearing about it?" Ricky asked, the memories of past Black Knights mentioning the place only putting him more on edge. "Before I tell you, I should explain what this place is."


    *First Person Narration*


    First, some people think the underworld is just some lawless place but they


    couldn''t be more wrong.


    Even the underworld has rules, operations, traditions that have been around


    since any formed government.


    From these rules, these traditions, and these operations have formed the


    likes of the Continental.


    The Continental more than just a hotel; it is a sanctuary, a place of order


    in the chaotic world of assassins and criminals.


    Each location, whether in New York, Rome, or Tokyo, is a part of an exclusive


    network of luxury establishments, each serving as a safe haven for those who live and die by the gun.


    But it was more than just some lavish place or the five-star service that made the Continental unique, it was its rules.


    The first and most sacred rule was simple: no business on Continental


    grounds.


    This isn''t just a guideline; it is an ironclad law that everyone, from the


    newest hitman to the most seasoned assassin, has to follow.


    No matter what vendetta you harbored or who your target was, once you stepped


    inside the Continental, all hostilities must be ceased.


    Funny as it is, it''s sort of a place where enemies could share a drink, where


    deals can be made, but where bloodshed is strictly off-limits.


    But violating these rules isn''t just a breach of etiquette; its a f*cking


    death sentence.


    The penalty for conducting business, meaning any kind of hit, within the walls of the Continental is called for excommunication, stripping you of all rights, privileges, and protection within the criminal underworld.


    And the repercussions are just as swift and severe.


    Behind the scenes, the Continental is operated like a well-oiled cog within a


    machine.


    Hell, even the staff, from the concierge to the bartenders, are impeccably


    trained and utterly discrete.


    They know their clientele, understand their needs, and provide whatever is required without ever asking unnecessary questions.


    Sh*t, I''ve heard they''re bartenders for stuff like weapons, medical assistance, information, everything was available, for a price. More importantly, if you have a gold coin, then the Continental isn''t just a hotel; it is a fully equipped armory, infirmary, and intelligence hub. But at the center of all these hotels is a manager, a guy who operates the


    Continental within its ground as its de facto leader.


    In New York, this role is filled by a guy named Finn O''Conner who I haven''t


    had the pleasure of meeting.


    All I know is that he''s ruthless and instead of joining the Irish mafia, he


    found himself at the center of the Continental.


    The guy is both a host and a judge, capable of offering a warm welcome with


    one hand while signing a death warrant with the other.


    This place is like a symbol of the code that governed the underworld but, the


    moment you stepped outside its doors, the protection ended, and the deadly game resumed. In the shadows, the Continental also served as a crucial node in the global network of the High Table, the shadowy council that controlled the criminal underworld before any established government.


    Like I said five seconds ago, people think the underworld is a lawless place,


    but it''s actually a well-oiled machine that churns out people like sunflower


    seeds.


    I don''t know much about the High Table, except that anyone who crosses them either ends up dead or absorbed.


    Eight years ago, when I first adopted you and took down Maggiano, I lied when


    I said the reason was because he wanted to rule everything.


    The truth is, Maggiano wanted his criminal organization to be recognized by


    the High Table, but the problem was, our territory was too small and too


    divided to ever make the cut.


    Unlike our families, the families overseas are united into one organization,


    the Maggio, recognized by the High Table, which grants them privileges that


    mere gangs could never hope to acquire.


    In his desperation, Maggiano sought to unite all the families under his


    control, hoping to have the High Table recognize him as the leader, the boss of all bosses.


    However, the others, like myself, didn''t want to be underlings and we wanted


    to lead in our own right.


    So, we took Maggiano out and struck a deal with the high table, those scary


    bastards.


    The deal had ended up forming the Commission and its formation was simple: we would pay the necessary tribute to the High Table and accept not being


    officially recognized in exchange for their mercy.


    But I wasn''t satisfied with that and in the heat of the moment, I met with


    the High Table''s inquisitor and proposed a deal of my own. I structured the deal in such a way that the High Table wouldn''t have to lift


    a finger. All they had to do was recognize my family once I took control of


    New York.


    They agreed, since they stood to lose nothing; either I absorbed the other families, another family absorbed me, or we became a watered-down version


    while they reaped all the benefits.


    But regardless, from that moment on, I''ve been working toward the complete


    absorption of the families.


    *END OF NARRATION*


    "....." Ricky fell silent for a long time, processing everything Lucky had just revealed to him.


    "How could you not tell me any of this?" Ricky finally asked, his voice


    filled with confusion and frustration as Lucky''s expression darkened, a troubled look crossing his face. "It wasn''t that simple, Slick. These people are dangerous. They''ve toppled governments for breaking their rules, and not even the entire family knows of their existence, only Meyer and Frank." Lucky explained, letting out a heaved sigh, the subject of the High Table clearly stressing him out.


    "But I''m your son-"


    "I don''t care how mad you get at me, but would you have been able to sit


    still if you knew about this three years ago?" Lucky aske, his words forcing


    Ricky to close his mouth, realizing he would''ve almost immediately gone to


    the Continental to stir trouble.


    *Sigh*


    "Listen, I''m telling you now because I wholly believe that you''ve grown, and


    proof of that is how you didn''t fly off your rocker at me." Lucky explained


    this delicate subject, pouring himself another glass of bourbon. "But the continental is completely unbiased, meaning they are stern on being neutral, there is no favoritism in their view of war." Lucky continued, trying to tell Ricky that it was literally impossible for him to join a side. "War is profitable on both sides and you choosing America is against their


    rules." Lucky warned, his words heavy as Ricky had a weird expression. "But what if I was drafted-"


    "They have strings everywhere, they''d pull a couple." Lucky spread out his


    arms this time, showing that this was even out of his hands. "Listen, pops, please." Ricky edged himself to the edge of his chair, showing how eager he was. "This war is going to involve the world. Everything will get sucked in, and with war, there are profits to reap." Ricky explained, his


    smile reforming at the potential of this move. "We could use this war as a springboard, using it to propel the Lucaino name to new heights and wedge ourselves into national interests." Ricky had been reading a lot of Dracula''s diary and for this he had learned how important


    politics were.


    However, he was an amateur, meaning he knew almost nothing about this world,


    which is why he wanted Lucky on board to help guide him. "You can''t, I''m sorry." Lucky shook his head, Ricky frowning and grabbing his


    hands tightly. "Who could make that decision, who could overturn this without affecting the family." Ricky eyes were stern, his green iris''s locking onto Lucky''s. "Slick, once the family is recognized by the high table, hell, even now it


    doesn''t matter cause-"


    "Pops, who." Lucky was quiet, Ricky knowing he knew more than he chose to let on, which is why Lucky clenched his fist.


    "In the high table, there is but one who stands above the table but he''s more


    of a myth." Lucky almost hesitated to even speak his name behind closed doors, rubbing his throat after feeling as if a knife was placed on it for


    even thinking about him.


    "It''s a title, not a person, but they are always known as the ''Elder''."


    "But to get to the Elder, you''d not only have to integrate into the world but


    go even deeper into the High Table." Lucky continued, a hint of irony in his


    voice.


    "You''d have to make yourself so well known within their ranks that you''d finally earn the right to ask the Elder for permission to leave." Lucky chuckled softly, shaking his head at the irony of it all.


    "It wouldn''t make sense to go through all that and there would be an


    outrageous demand to go with it." Lucky laughed out, shaking his head while


    taking a sip of his bourbon.


    "But that would take years to prove your worth, and-" "In three years, I''ll meet the Elder," Ricky revealed, essentially setting a


    goal for himself to reach such heights within that time frame. Lucky opened his mouth to respond but paused, leaning back in his chair as he realized that Ricky wasn''t diving into this recklessly; he was giving himself a timeline, showing a level of patience and foresight that Lucky hadn''t


    expected.


    "But before any of that, how are you going to go about all of this mutant stuff, huh?" Lucky smiled, a knowing glint in his eyes as he watched his son.


    Ricky chuckled, leaning eagerly forward as his excitement bubbled up. "Well first-"


    Ricky laid out his plan with clarity and focus, explaining each step he intended to take and how it would all lead to his ultimate goal. As he spoke,


    Lucky found himself unknowingly leaning forward, drawn in by the ambition in his son''s voice.


    The more Ricky outlined his vision, the more Lucky realized this wasn''t just


    some wild dream, it was a serious possibility. "So you were serious about this whole mutant messiah thing? About becoming a


    symbol for the mutant community?" Lucky asked, his voice tinged with disbelief as he processed the gravity of what Ricky had just laid out. Ricky simply smiled in response, his confidence unwavering. "I know, funny, right?" Ricky chuckled, amused by the irony of it all, and


    Lucky couldn''t help but laugh along with him.


    But as the laughter died down, Lucky leaned back, his gaze fixed on Ricky as


    he saw how far his son had come, how much he had changed, and though he knew


    it might not work, it didn''t matter.


    Because in the end, he was going to do what any father would for his son''s


    ambition.


    "Alright Ricky, I''ll prepare everything, but I need to know for certain." Lucky crossed his hands together, looking at Ricky with a renewed intensity. "Are you sure?" Lucky asked in a deadpan serious voice, knowing that this was


    something that required him to go all in.


    "Because this is something that will forever follow you and can never be


    undone." Lucky gestured, the weight of failure meaning the possible end of their family.


    "I''m sure." Ricky said with conviction, his smile widening as he stood up


    with a puffed out chest.


    "I want to do this, I want to be the guy you always knew I could be, I''m


    ready to be the roots of this family." Ricky''s referenced Lucky from all the years ago, taking the old man off guard but he ended up laughing before a


    piece of paper was suddenly handed to him.


    "Also could you do me a favor and track down those names for me, it''s personal." Ricky handed a note to Lucky who looked over it and nodded before


    frowning.


    "You''re not trying to get laid or something, right?" Lucky asked only to see


    Ricky walk out of the room.


    "Slick seriously, why are the only names here broads!" Ricky chuckled to himself as he walked down the hallway, the sound of his


    laughter echoing off the walls. But instead of heading to bed, he made his


    way through the night, his steps guided by some unspoken purpose.


    The familiar mansion loomed ahead, and through the window, he saw her, sitting by the light of a single lamp, her face lost in the pages of a book.


    *Dink*


    *Dink*


    The girl''s entire body stiffened, tears welling up in her eyes as she slowly


    turned toward the window.


    Her hand instinctively covered her mouth, as if trying to hold back the


    emotions threatening to spill over. "Hey, Maria," Ricky greeted with a warm smile as Maria remained frozen for a


    moment, her gaze fixed on him, before her instincts kicked in. Without a second thought, she rushed to the window, her eyes wide with


    disbelief.


    Ricky, levitating just outside, didn''t give her a chance to hesitate and without even considering the danger, Maria leapt out of the window, her heart


    racing, trusting that whatever it was that had brought him here was worth the


    risk.


    Ricky effortlessly caught her mid-air, their bodies weightless as they seemed to float together.


    Maria clung to him, her tears soaking into his shirt as she sobbed quietly,


    the intensity of the moment overwhelming her.


    They ascended, rising above the city, the night sky unfolding around them.


    Stars twinkled like diamonds, and the gentle hush of the clouds surrounded


    them, as if they were the only two people in the world. Ricky held her tightly, his grip steady and comforting as they hovered, the


    vastness of the sky and the silent beauty of the world below them offering a


    brief respite from everything else.


    "Y-You came back to me~" Maria sniffled, her voice trembling as she pressed


    her face into Ricky''s chest, sobbing softly. Ricky held her even tighter, his face buried in her hair, the weight of the


    moment settling over him.


    "I''ll always come back for you," Ricky whispered gently, his voice full of conviction as Maria looked up at him, her tear-filled eyes searching for him, before their lips finally met in a kiss, tender and desperate, a reunion long


    overdue.


    "Oh, Ricky~" Maria smiled, her fingers gently caressing his chin as she gazed


    up at him with dreamy eyes.


    "EEP!" Maria squealed in surprise, suddenly realizing they were high up in


    the sky.


    Ricky grinned, twisting their bodies midair and creating a mental platform


    beneath them, steadying them both as they hovered above the city.


    "W-Why are we in the sky, Ricky, why are you stepping on the air-"


    *GASP*


    Maria''s feet gently touched the air, her eyes widening in surprise at the


    sensation.


    She looked down, amazed to find herself standing on nothing but thin air as


    Ricky released her, letting her take her first steps, and she hesitated at


    first, her legs wobbling beneath her.


    Slowly, she bent down, her fingers brushing the invisible platform beneath


    her feet as she tested its stability.


    Finally, she straightened up, her eyes meeting Ricky''s who had a smile tugged


    at the corners of his lips and a single outstretched hand.


    "Maria Profaci, three years ago we never got to go to prom, but would you


    allow me to have this dance?" Ricky asked, holding out his hand before Maria


    started laughing, almost crying as she nodded her head.


    *Sniff*


    "Certainly," Maria said, adopting a posh accent as she took his hand and Ricky helped her up, gently placing his hand on her waist. They danced, the world spinning gently around them beneath the moonlight with


    Maria''s smile growing, a soft and radiant glow, as they moved in rhythm,


    their bodies gliding together in perfect harmony. The sky stretched above them, vast and endless, like a canvas for their


    reunion while painting their figures in a spotlight seemingly meant just for


    them.


    Three years apart had weighed heavily on especially the lingering thought that she had been abandoned, left behind without a second glance.


    Those fears, always there in the back of her mind, had plagued her


    subconscious, shaping her every step in his absence. But now, as she swayed in Ricky''s arms, everything felt different.


    With each step, each time she accidentally stepped on his shoe, each time


    they both chuckled at how horrible they were at dancing.


    The past seemingly melted away with each of their movements, each breath


    shared between them warming that love that had seemingly froze in time. The uncertainty, the pain, the doubts, all of it was replaced by the solid, undeniable presence of Ricky''s hold, his arms steady and secure around her. The weight of the world, the years, slipped off her shoulders, and in its


    place was the certainty of his touch, his sleazy smile that never failed to reassure her that no matter the storm, they would always find their way back


    to each other.


    *Sniff*


    "You''re a real jerk, you know that?" Maria whispered as they swayed in a slow


    dance, her scowl softening only slightly as she leaned into his embrace.


    "The biggest jerk," Ricky agreed with a chuckle, his tone teasing yet


    sincere.


    "Ricky?"


    "Yes, princess?"


    "Why didn''t you say goodbye?"


    Maria asked, her voice not hurt but filled with


    confusion as Ricky looked down, a hint of shame crossing his face.


    It was one of the things he regretted. Ricky knew he was a bastard, but even


    still, it felt sh*tty leaving Maria all alone like that, without so much as a


    goodbye to warm her on the coldest days.


    "Truthfully, you probably expected me to say something like, ''I knew that if


    you told me to stay, I would''ve, ''" Ricky admitted, his gaze dropping as Maria


    simply waited to finish his words.


    "But that''s a lie," Ricky continued, his voice softening, feeling slightly


    ashamed but continuing nonetheless.


    "Back then, I just wanted to run away, leave it all behind. But when I did,


    along the way, I realized that I shouldn''t run from the things that are important to me." Ricky looked down at Maria with a sincere expression, rubbing her hand that was still pressed on his cheek.


    "I shouldn''t have run and I wish, on a million wishes, that I could just go


    back and beat the sh*t out of the past me for leaving such a great girl like yourself." Ricky''s words made Maria laugh, smiling ear to ear at him actually bearing himself to her instead of pushing her away like he always did.


    Before.


    "I want to tell you the world, to make up for everything but I know you


    deserve only two from my lips." Ricky seriously spoke, looking Maria straight


    into her eyes with a sincerity she never thought possible from him.


    "I''m sorry."


    "I''m sorry for everything, for leaving you alone, for running out, and I''m


    going to do everything I can to make up for it, I promise." Ricky grabbed her


    delicate hand, kissing her palm as she slowly started to blush. "I promise that I''m never gonna leave you behind anymore, never going to hide


    from you, and for that reason is why I came here." Ricky''s words only


    prompted a sad smile from Maria who understood immediately.


    "You''re leaving again-"


    "Only temporarily, I''m gonna sue the government." Ricky revealed, Maria


    widening her eyes before squinting.


    "Why."


    "So I can come back, sweep you off your feet, and take you away from this


    place." Ricky gestured down to the mansion, Maria remembering as she smiled


    warmly.


    "Ricky, I need to tell you something." Maria brought Ricky''s face next to


    hers, lightly pecking the tip of his nose before rubbing his chin.


    "Ricky, you have a son." Maria said with a teasing grin, her eyes sparkling


    and Ricky let out a laugh, pretending to be oblivious. "Hey, I''m serious," Maria puffed her cheeks, playfully hitting his chest as


    Ricky smiled, leaning in to kiss her soft cheek. "Then I guess you''re stuck with me." Ricky laughed, holding her close as she


    wrapped her arms around him.


    "D-Do you want to meet him?" Maria asked, her voice trembling with fear,


    afraid Ricky might say no.


    But before he could respond, they began to levitate downward, the world


    around them blurring as they descended together.


    "I thought you''d never ask."


    Arriving inside the house, Maria moved cautiously, checking the hallway


    before stepping into the room.


    She made her way towards a door, which connected their rooms and as she


    opened it, Ricky was quietly introduced to his son, Carmine Falcone Luciano,


    who lay peacefully asleep in his bed.


    "He takes after his mother," Ricky thought out loud with a whisper, noticing


    more of Maria''s features in him, but the deep black hair was unmistakably his


    own as he nodded quietly, a small smile forming on his face.


    "He needs a father, Ricky, not a mobster," Maria warned, her voice steady but


    firm and Ricky raised his hands in surrender as she gently closed the door


    behind


    her.


    "Princess, do you trust me?" Ricky asked, holding her hands gently. Maria


    hesitated for a moment before slowly nodding her head.


    "Just wait a little longer, and I promise I''ll make it all right." Ricky


    reassured her, pulling her into another deep kiss before slowly pulling away.


    "Only because it''s you," Maria smiled at him, her voice soft but warm. Ricky


    winked in


    response, casually opening the gate.


    "Ricky, be careful." Maria called out tentatively, a hint of concern in her


    voice and Ricky shot her a sleazy grin as he glanced back at her.


    "Never." Ricky hopped into the portal, smiling ear to ear at Maria pouting


    before she blew him a kiss.


    Catching it, he stuffed it in his


    pocket while winking at her as hte portal


    closed as Maria held her smile in place.


    "Mommy?" Carmine''s small voice came from the door, followed by a soft knock.


    Maria quickly walked over, opening the door to find her little boy rubbing


    his tired


    eyes.


    "Sweetie, what are you doing up so late?" Maria asked gently, her hand


    brushing his hair as she picked him up and cradled him in her arms as she


    walked him back to his bed, tucking him in carefully.


    "I heard noises." Carmine pouted, being gently laid back into his bed as


    Maria caressed her head.


    "Can you tell me a story?" Carmine asked, pulling up the covers with a


    stubborn but tired


    gaze.


    "Let me guess, one about your father?" Maria chuckled, lightly pinching his


    cheek as he swatted it away but didn''t refuse. "Well, one day, there were some jerks trying to pick on me and-"


    Meanwhile outside a familiar house,


    Instead of returning to Lucky''s mansion, Ricky decided to stop by another


    house as though his dance with Maria had been heartfelt, it left him


    incredibly horny which is why he was now at Alina''s house.


    As he slipped into the house, the silence enveloped him; his arrival went


    unnoticed.


    Originally, he''d planned to see Danielle after meeting Jake, but now, things


    had shifted as he quietly opened the door of the master bedroom to find


    Alina, her curves visible beneath the sheets,


    ''F*ck, she''s ages like fine wine-''


    peacefully


    asleep in her room.


    *Click*


    "Don''t move." Alina''s voice was cold and commanding as she swiftly drew a


    revolver from under her pillow, aiming it at Ricky, who was lurking in the


    shadows.


    "You came to the wrong ho-" Alina began to threaten, but her words faltered


    as the revolver slipped from her grasp, falling onto the bed.


    Her hands shook as she slowly raised them to her mouth, eyes wide, when Ricky


    stepped into the light.


    "And here I thought you couldn''t get any more sexy, you go and pull a gun on


    me." Ricky took off his jacket, throwing it to the side while walking up to


    Alina, pulling the busty woman on the verge of tears.


    "Hey there, beautiful." Ricky''s voice was soft, almost a whisper as Alina


    touched his cheek to make sure this was real and not a dream.


    "Oh Ricky-" Alina smiled brightly, her hand trembling as it gently caressed


    his cheek, her gaze locking onto his with an intensity that seemed to pierce


    straight through him.


    "You came back to me," Alina cried out, shivering in Ricky''s embrace as he


    leaned in and just before their lips could meet, he whispered a single word.


    "Always."

 Chapter 121 - 117: Leading Counsel?

    Chapter 121: Chapter 117: Leading Counsel?


    Next Day,


    "So, are we just gonna wait here forever, or what?" Jake asked, pulling back the curtains to reveal a sea of people outside the family''s residence as he glanced over at Ricky, who was casually playing cards.


    "Of course not, but I need a lead council and Lucky says he has a guy so I''m waiting here for him-"


    "Aye, Boss, there''s a guy here claiming he was sent by Lucky to see you!" Marino, the ordinary mobster on guard duty, called up, eyeing the man who smiled back at him.


    "And would you look at that, he''s here," Ricky chuckled, standing up. Jake sighed but didn''t argue, handing him his cards.


    "Stand in for me while I hire my leading counsel." Ricky laughed, walking out the door and down the stairs to a surprising sight.


    "Ricky Luciano, I presume? I''m Thurgood Marshall, and it''s a pleasure to meet you." Marshall smiled, Ricky a little surprised since he assumed the person Lucky was sending would be an Italian attorney.


    "You can call me Thurgood or Marshall or-"


    "Honestly, I think it would do you wonders if you referred to yourself as Marshall," Ricky said, uncaring at who it was that Lucky sent while patting his shoulder as he motioned toward the living room.


    "So, first things first, can you practice law in Texas?" Ricky asked, and Marshall vigorously nodded, pulling out a briefcase.


    "Over the last three years, after graduating from Howard at the top of my class, I''ve been passing the bar in every state. Texas happens to be one of them." Marshall handed Ricky his proof, and Ricky, impressed but in a hurry, gave a quick nod of approval.


    "Well, Marshall, let''s get down to it, shall we? Why should I hire you?" Ricky asked, his gaze steady as he watched Marshall nod and look directly into his eyes.


    "Because no other lawyer would put their life on the line to win this case for you like I would." Marshall said, his tone serious as his words didn''t trigger Ricky''s lie detection, and he nodded in response.


    "I know I''m young, but like you, I want to make a name for myself and I want it to come out swinging." Marshall pitched himself, not the case, watching Ricky raise an eyebrow in intrigue.


    "Ricky-"


    "Call me Slick, only those close to me call me Ricky and the only thing that is close about us is the distance." Ricky yawned, reaching over and grabbing a cigar before clipping it.


    "Then, if you would excuse me, Slick, I know how bad you want this, but don''t you want someone representing you who wants it just as bad? Someone who would break into a residence to pitch himself?" Marshall said, his words filled with utmost sincerity, catching Ricky off guard.


    "Wow, that''s a good pitch-wait, what do you mean break-"


    "Like I was saying, Gino, this case is huge, and I know you owe me, but I want you to know-who is this?" Lucky guided his old friend Gino into the living room, only to find Ricky sitting with Marshall.


    "What do you mean, Pops? Isn''t this the guy you were going to bring in?" Ricky asked, side-eyeing not Marshall, but Johnny, who went pale.


    "No, I called up my buddy Gino Giovanni. I don''t know who this cat is," Lucky said, pointing at Marshall, also side-eyeing Marino.


    "Man, I guess I really should''ve vetted him more before letting him in," Ricky muttered, noticing Marino''s sweating face. He quickly covered for him as Lucky squinted at the man.


    "Uh-huh." Lucky could see right through it but wasn''t about to undermine his son in front of these people as he kept his thoughts to himself, maintaining a quiet composure.


    "Marshall." Ricky suddenly turned to Marshall with a smile, causing the latter to cough nervously.


    "Yeah?" Marshall asked, sweating bullets, while Lucky calmly pulled out his pistol.


    "Who are you?" Ricky tilted his head at Marshall, who laughed awkwardly, but Lucky had already drawn his gun, his eyes locked on the man.


    Click


    "You shouldn''t laugh, you''re wasting the ten words you have left before I pull this trigger," Lucky said seriously, making it clear he was ready to kill Marshall.


    "Answer me boy, who are you?" Lucky raised his gaze, forcing a shudder out of Marshall who shook in place.


    "Nobody but a poor and helpless black man," Marshall spoke in seven words, his voice steady as Ricky raised an eyebrow but Lucky felt no symphony.


    Danielle, his granddaughter, was upstairs taking her nap and although Ricky was here the question remained in his head.


    What if he wasn''t?


    "Can I have an extension-"


    BANG


    Marshall had exceeded his word limit, and before anyone could react, Lucky pulled the trigger.


    The bullet flew, but it bounced off Ricky''s barrier, harmlessly deflecting as the tension in the room thickened.


    "Let''s hear him out, I mean, the guy walked into the tiger''s den, after all," Ricky laughed, his tone light but the threat in his eyes clear as Marshall had better speak fast if he wanted to survive.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    Marshall''s knees gave out, collapsing onto the ground as Lucky kept his gun pointed at him, unwavering, despite the barrier now circling around him.


    "E-Everything I said to you before is true, Slick! I just left out the part where your father didn''t hire me but the part where was here to be your lead counsel is true!" Marshall''s words caught in his throat, but he persevered, yelling with all his might as his entire body shook violently in fear.


    "Such a way with the truth," Ricky laughed, knowing the reason the gun hadn''t gone off was because Marino had spoken the truth for him first, allowing Marshall to proceed without mentioning it.


    "I get where you''re coming from, Slick I do, I see this all the time, you are going with someone you trust, but is that someone really right for you, right to lead your case?" Marshall threw Gino under the bus, trying to make his case only for the old italian face to turn red.


    "THE F*CK YOU SAY TO ME!" Gino marched forward, but this time, Lucky was becoming intrigued and stopped him.


    "I know you want to disregard me because it''s easy, but I''m telling you, Ricky, this will add to your case. No, this will make your case the hotpot of the country." Marshall continued his pitch, looking up at Ricky''s calm smile.


    But Ricky''s eyes seemed to press down on him, making him feel rooted to the spot, unable to move.


    In the future, Marshall would always refer to this exact moment, where he was weighed down not by the gun in Lucky''s hand, but by the mere gaze of Ricky.


    It was a look that pierced through him, heavy and unrelenting, as if Ricky could see straight into his soul.


    "A black lawyer defending a mutant, it''s never been done!" Marshall yelped out, pleading almost in an attempt to gain any kind of interest from Ricky.


    "The headlines, the coverage, it will be nationwide, and I can tell what kind of guy you are, Ricky. You''re not afraid of the spotlight and all the hate or love that comes with it." Marshall''s entire back was soaked in sweat, the only thing hiding it being his suit jacket. But even then, anyone could tell by the look on his face that he was barely holding it together.


    "I believe in you, Slick. I believe in your case, and I know, I KNOW, that I can win this for you if you just give me the chance." Marshall almost pleaded with Ricky, fully aware that no one was more perfect for this exact case than he was.


    Ricky stood for a moment, rubbing his chin and although he wanted to just dismiss Marshall, something suddenly clicked.


    It reminded him of a time when he was begging Abraham to teach him, desperate for guidance even though he didn''t want to admit it.


    In that moment, he felt incredibly helpless in the face of overwhelming power and begged the old drunk.


    Now he saw himself in Abraham''s shoes, staring at his own pleading expression, and for the first time, understood the weight of what it meant to truly give someone a chance in desperation.


    "Okay." Ricky nodded, standing up and extending his hand.


    "I''ll trust you." Ricky smiled, and Marshall shot up to his feet, his face breaking into a wide, ecstatic grin.


    "Slick I swear you won''t regret-" Marshall widened his eyes, smiling but before he could pull his hand away, Ricky''s eyes gleamed with green.


    "Marshall, you know what kind of man I am, right?" Ricky suddenly pulled him in close, his grip tightening around Marshall''s hand forcing him to wince, feeling the intensity of Ricky''s gaze.


    "I''m someone you don''t cross if you lose," Ricky said, his voice low and cold. "And if you cost me this case, practicing law again will be the least of your worries. You''ll be wondering which river I''ll throw your dead body into." Ricky''s words were chilling, and Marshall''s entire body froze in fear.


    "So let''s get this clear, I can tell what your agenda is and I don''t care cause I ain''t some noble soul, I do not even acknowledge anything that doesn''t mess with me but if you lose..." Ricky warned, his grip tightening as Marshall felt as if his hand would break.


    "You''re messing with me, understand?"


    It was then that Marshall realized this wouldn''t simply define his life, but cost it if he ended up failing.


    It was a fleeting moment, where his entire life flashed before his eyes, yet even when everything seemed certain, Marshall tightened his gaze.


    Those who want to make a difference have to put themselves in the crosshairs of death.


    "I understand." Marshall said resolutely, locking eyes with Ricky, who merely nodded.


    "Good, cause we leave in 24 hours." Ricky then walked past Marshall, and as he did, Marshall collapsed to his knees, his body giving out as Ricky remained the only thing keeping him upright.


    "Hey Gino, no hard feelings, alright? I''ll compensate you for your lost time." Ricky walked up to Gino, who had been sending hateful glares at Marshall, but his expression softened when he turned his gaze back to Ricky.


    "Oh nonsense Slick, I''d never ask anything for the son of Lucky-"


    "No, no, no, I insist, come on let me treat you at the stork club, the least I can do." Ricky slinked hi arms around Gino who laughed while Lucky hung back.


    "Johnny!" Lucky yelled out, Marino trembling over at the side as Johnny rushed into the mansion at the call of Lucky.


    "Yeah, boss!" Johnny rushed over to Lucky, almost saluting him, waiting for his order. But his eyes couldn''t help but fall on Marino, who was quivering off to the side.


    ''Dammit, Marino.'' Johnny instinctively knew something had gone wrong. As the head guard of the Luciano family residence, Johnny was well aware that any mistake, no matter how small, was his responsibility.


    Marino''s failure didn''t just reflect poorly on him so now, it was Johnny''s problem too.


    This job of his, guarding the Luciano residence wasn''t merely an easy job but a highly coveted one within the family.


    Guarding the Luciano residence wasn''t just any job as it was one of the most coveted positions within the family for the lowest members since it gave them an easier way to climb the latter, and anyone who held it was expected to perform flawlessly.


    The pressure to keep the family safe was immense, and one slip-up could cost more than just a job, it could cost lives.


    But letting a stranger into the residence, with nothing but his word, was something so ignorant that even a rookie wouldn''t dare do.


    It was a fundamental mistake, the kind of error that should''ve been caught the second Marshall stepped through the door.


    Johnny''s jaw clenched as he watched Marino fidget, knowing this blunder wasn''t just careless, it was reckless.


    A lapse like this wasn''t just a failure of protocol, it was a betrayal of trust, and that kind of thing didn''t go unnoticed in the Luciano family.


    Johnny''s mind raced, weighing the consequences as Marino would be lucky if this didn''t cost him more than just his position.


    "You better kiss the ground beneath my son''s feet since we both know he is covered for your ass." Lucky side-eyed Marino, bowing his head while indirectly giving Johnny the information as he also bowed his head.


    "I''m grateful boss, it''s my fault this happened and I take full responsibility." Johnny took the blame, knowing that it was his fault regardless since he was in charge of Marino.


    Lucky frowned at the proclamation, his eyes shifting to one of the up-and-comers in the family.


    He could see the boy''s unease, the quiet awareness that this was a pivotal moment and Lucky understood the reaction; it was the right one, the kind of integrity that should be expected from anyone in his position.


    But that didn''t mean it was typical, in fact, most people in Johnny''s position would''ve thrown the lower members under the bus without hesitation, sacrificing them to save their own skin.


    "I''ll deal with you later Johnny, and you Marino, you''re reassigned." Lucky gave out orders before turning to Marshall, still trying to regain his bearings that were shaken earlier.


    "And you, Slick wasn''t kidding when he said if you fail you''d die but let me make this clear for you." Lucky walked up to Marshall, watching him flinch at his steps until he was right before him with a cold gaze.


    "If Slick is gonna take your head, then I''m gonna go after everything you love, because no one messes with my boy and simply walks away," Lucky threatened, his voice dripping with cold malice.


    Marshall looked up at the man, meeting the icy glare of one of the most powerful mob bosses in New York, maybe even the most powerful.


    "This ain''t a warning, I''m threatening you," Lucky said coldly, his voice carrying a weight that made the air itself feel heavier.


    With a final, calculated glance at Marshall, he turned and walked away, his footsteps echoing through the room.


    "Johnny, if that cat isn''t here tomorrow then it''s your head!" Lucky yelled out the door, walking out to catch up the likes of Ricky and Gino.


    "Listen, I didn''t mean to cause trouble for you-" Marshall looked towards Johnny hatefully gazing at him, only for his words to be interrupted.


    SLAP


    Marshall stumbled backwards, Johnny hovering above him with a vicious expression plastered on his face as Marino tried to pull him away.


    "Johnny, it ain''t worth it-"


    "Dammit Marino, your getting reassigned, that''s a f*cking demotion!" Johnny yelled, angry at the fact that Marino should''ve known better but still wanted to put the blame on Marshall.


    SIGH


    "Get him up, this cat ain''t leaving our sight for the entire day." Johnny let out a heavy sigh, calming himself down before ordering Marino who forced Marshall to his feet, pushing him forward as the lawyer only had one thought in his mind.


    ''What did I get myself into.''


    Meanwhile in downtown Manhattan,


    Arriving at the Stork Club, they were promptly escorted to a private booth, the kind reserved for those with power or influence.


    The club was alive with the hum of conversations, the clink of glasses, and the smooth jazz playing in the background, but none of that seemed to matter as Ricky, Lucky, and Gino settled into their seats.


    "So, how do you know my pops?" Ricky asked, his voice smooth, leaning back into the plush leather booth.


    He had a curiosity in his eyes, but he was also watching Gino closely, trying to gauge how much truth was in the man''s words.


    "Long story short, I used to run with the Five Points gang back in the day. Not as big as you might think, but we had our territory, our connections." Gino laughed, remarking about the good old days when he ran in the streets with Lucky.


    "Gino here was ironclad, he could take a punch like no other." Lucky nudged his shoulder, laughing along as Ricky smiled at this side of his pops.


    "But not a bullet." Gino said, the inside joke registering within the space before a loud ensuing laughter followed.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Gino burst out laughing, his voice echoing through the booth. Ricky joined in, but Gino''s laughter was the loudest, almost contagious. Gino wiped his eyes as he calmed down, still chuckling.


    "You''re probably wondering why I left, right?" Gino asked, his gaze steady on Ricky, a mischievous glint in his eyes.


    Ricky leaned back, clearly intrigued but also with a hint of suspicion in his expression as the question had been sitting in the air ever since Gino had started his story.


    "Well, although I could take a punch, a bullet on the other hand..." Gino paused for effect, looking at Lucky who was now staring at the table, unusually quiet.


    "Let''s just say, I like my health more than my ego." Gino finished with a wink, a casual shrug, patting to his chest with a smile.


    Lucky didn''t laugh and instead, he just sat there, a somber look on his face, his thoughts drifting somewhere else.


    "Come on Lucky, it''s been twenty years since we last saw each other, don''t be down in the dumps." Gino flicked Lucky some sh*t as the latter laughed with a forced chuckle.


    "Alright, alright, I just still feel guilty-"


    "By mother Mary, will you let it go, it''s not your fault." Gino sighed, messaging his forehead but Lucky still remained quiet at the side.


    "Anyway, I''m sorry for pulling you down here, but I need you to stick around." Lucky said, his tone sharpening as he leaned forward slightly, his eyes locked on Gino.


    "There''s some business I want to discuss, one that involves a lawyer-"


    "Honestly pops, we can talk shop tomorrow." Ricky waved to the side, Gino laughing along as he nodded towards him.


    "Yeah Lucky, you drag me down here for a case then go with some cat, at least let me have a drink first!" Gino hollered out, reaching for the champagne brought to their table.


    "Alright, alright." Lucky smiled, thinking he should at least treat Gino to some fine dining before getting down to business.


    "Anyways, I''ve heard a lot about you Slick." Gino pointed his glass of newly filled champagne towards Ricky, showing a toothy smile.


    "Good or bad."


    "Both."


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" They all burst into uncontrollable laughter, Gino pounding the table before finally composing himself.


    "Seriously though, thank you for your service to the church," Gino said, offering a genuine nod, but Ricky rolled his eyes.


    "I''m serious, Slick, it''s a big deal that you''re an honorary cardinal, and you should be proud," Gino continued, his tone more sincere and trying to show that he wasn''t busting his balls.


    "That''s what I keep telling him, but the little bastard thinks it''s just a small little thing," Lucky waved his finger at Ricky.


    "Kids these days," Gino rolled his eyes, only for Lucky to start laughing as they all began to dine on fine cuisine, the mood lightening as the conversation shifted.


    A couple of hours went by, and the moon had risen, its silver glow cutting through the thick clouds that had gathered in the sky, obscuring the last traces of daylight.


    "So a Frenchman, German, and Irishman are drinking beer at a bar, right?" Ricky started another joke, smiling ear to ear as he hadn''t been able to tell one of his bar jokes in a while.


    "And a fly lands in each of their beers; the Frenchman flags the bartender down and asks for another beer." Ricky almost chuckles, keeping the flow smooth so as not to take away from the punchline.


    "The German scoops the fly out and continues drinking his beer." Ricky swats the air, seemingly mimicking the German before smiling wider.


    "But the Irishman takes the fly out, holds it over his glass and screams ''Spit it out ya dirty bastard!''" Ricky yells to give the joke more effect, his words causing Gino to convulse in his seat.


    PFFFT


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Gino let out a belly roar of laughter, trying to hold it down only for the laughter to spiral out.


    "YOU''RE A RIOT SLICK, A RIOT!" Gino laughed out, smacking his knee with a booming laughter before he slowly wound down.


    "Man, it''s really good to be back." Gino said with a nostalgic smile, reminiscing about his time in New York as Ricky tilted his head, curious.


    "Why did you end up leaving and starting a practice upstate anyways, did you get bored down here?" Ricky asked, piecing together bits from their hours of conversation but before he could get anything juicy, the conversation always shifted.


    Gino was evidently a close friend of Lucky, but due to unforeseen circumstances, he had decided to pursue law school and eventually start his own practice upstate.


    "I just couldn''t run with the gang anymore," Gino admitted, his smile tinged with sadness as Lucky lowered his head.


    "My heart was always with the Five Points Gang and my brothers, but my body just gave up on me-.....I just couldn''t do it anymore." Gino flashed a toothy smile at Ricky, who glanced down thoughtfully.


    "But I don''t regret it. Thanks to these old bones of mine, I found my lovely lady and had three beautiful kids with her," Gino said, his smile warming as he reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a worn photograph.


    "Three boys." Gino said proudly, holding up the picture for a moment before tucking it back into his pocket.


    "I swear, my love wanted to kill me after our third since she always wanted a girl. But hey, what are you going to do?" Gino chuckled, his pride shining through despite the jest.


    "Anyhow, life sometimes throws a curveball, and just when you think you''ve struck out, one of your teammates steals home and wins the game," Gino said with a shrug, leaning back in his seat. Ricky side-eyed Lucky, who was still down in the dumps, his usual confident demeanor replaced by an uncharacteristic quiet.


    Sigh


    "I think I''m calling it-"


    "No, you can''t Gino-"


    "Sorry, Slick, but my old lady will kill me if she finds out I''ve been drinking," Gino said as he stood up, prompting Ricky and Lucky to do the same.


    "She''s got me on this diet the doctor claims is good for me." Gino sighed, glancing at his plate, still a little full of salad, but he couldn''t bring himself to eat any more.


    "I''ll call a car for you," Lucky said, patting Gino''s shoulder reassuringly and meanwhile, Ricky silently stepped back into the shadows, his presence fading into the dim light of the room.


    Throughout the conversation, Lucky continued to wear that same guilty expression that lingered on his face, preventing him from fully enjoying himself.


    When Gino''s car arrived and he bid his goodbyes, Ricky disappeared momentarily, only to reappear behind Lucky, silently gazing out into the distance alongside him.


    "What the hell was that, pops?"


    "JESUS!" Lucky''s heart jumped into his throat as he staggered back slightly, clutching his chest before letting out a heavy sigh.


    Sigh


    "It''s nothing-"


    "Don''t bullsh*t pops, you did something to him." Ricky gestured and Lucky sighed, walking down the street as tRicky started following along.


    "I didn''t do anything to him, it was Gino who did everything for me." Lucky revealed, Ricky raising an eyebrow in response.


    "Gino saved my life, Slick. He threw himself into a bullet to save my hide," Lucky said, his eyes fixed on the sky as Ricky''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    "Gino loved running in the gang, it was his passion, but he threw it all away to protect me." Lucky still wore this guilt on his sleeve and Ricky could see how much it had affected him.


    "The injury left him unable to run like he used to and he had trouble breathing for years., years." Lucky really emphasized that last part, showing how difficult it was for Gino to breathe regularly after being shot in the chest.


    "He gave it all up, to save me." Lucky voiced one of his biggest regrets, kicking a nearby rock as it skidded across the pavement.


    "Sounds like a good friend."


    "Best friend, and it''s because of everything he did for me that I tried everything to get him back on his feet. I thank the Lord he found a good life after the gang." Lucky said, exhaling deeply. Ricky patted his shoulder, his expression softening.


    "Then I''m guessing that''s why you were so stiff in their pops, I mean, I''ve seen mimes more talkative than you." Ricky nudged Lucky, busting his balls as the old man chuckled.


    "Sometimes guilt just doesn''t go away, you have to live with your mistakes and I have to live with the fact that I ruined Gino''s life-"


    "You didn''t ruin his life-"


    "Yes I did!" Lucky suddenly yelled at Ricky, looking surprised that the old man raised his voice over this before smiling.


    "Sorry, it''s just really personal-" Lucky rubbed the back of his neck, his discomfort evident as he tried to ease into the conversation and Ricky, however, held up his hands, signaling for him to stop.


    "No, no, no, I get it, it''s your time of the month." Ricky joked, Lucky punching his shoulder with a playful smile.


    Meanwhile at the mansion,


    "Hehehehehehe~" Danielle chuckled maniacally, being hosted on Asterion''s shoulders and running around the yard.


    "So, Slick actually killed Dracula?" Jake asked with a baffled expression, Chores leaning back in his seat while sipping on some milk.


    "Not only Dracula, but became the Black Knight." Barko, in his werewolf form for the sole purpose of cutting up his steak, grinned through the sharp, elongated teeth as he finished his sentence.


    "But what happened, what made him actually want to-...you know-....and start to you know-......I guess be better?" Jake trailed off, his voice dipping into an abbreviated hesitation, referencing the dramatic change in Ricky.


    The two of them exchanged a brief look before shaking their heads, as if the answer was too complicated or painful to explain.


    "All we know is that at his lowest point, he entered the trials to be a black knight and saw something that must''ve warranted a dramatic change." Barko explained, seeing that shift happen when both of them weren''t there.


    "In any case, this is a good change and will do wonders for him moving forward," Chores lightly commented, his tone calm but insightful as Jake nodded in agreement, his gaze thoughtful as he considered the shift in Ricky''s direction.


    "And what are you two going to do?" Jake asked, his eyes shifting between Chores and Barko as Chores wiped his mouth.


    "I''m starting a company with the coven under Ricky," Chores vaguely explained, his thoughts still lingering on the plans.


    "It''s a household appliance company of sorts, though I''m still working on how to adapt the blueprints he gave me to the current technology we have now." Chores rubbed his chin, brooding off to the side.


    A lot of the goods that required mass production hadn''t been properly developed in this era, which was why Chores was taking longer than expected as he was determined, though, to solve the problems.


    However, at this moment, Barko remained silent, unsure of his place within the fold.


    It wasn''t that he didn''t know his path, it''s just that he didn''t know which path to take.


    Unlike the others, the way forward didn''t come easily to Barko as he still struggled to figure out if he wanted to continue where he left off before all of this and return to his research, or fully delve into the world of magic.


    The uncertainty weighed on him, as he found himself torn between the familiar path of logic and science, and the unknown yet captivating realm that seemed to offer endless possibilities.


    Each choice felt like a step into uncharted territory, and Barko wasn''t sure if he was ready to commit to one or if he''d ever find the balance he sought.


    Jake, noticing the shift in Barko''s demeanor, didn''t comment further, sensing it wasn''t the right time to probe.


    "Daddy!" Daniell suddenly called out, reaching toward him as Asteron gently set her down, and she rushed forward eagerly.


    "Hey, pumpkin." Ricky picked her up and spun her around, smiling as she latched onto him, her small arms wrapping around his neck.


    Danielle''s shift from shy to comfortable was swift, as unlike others, she could feel the immense love Ricky had for her as it made everything seem as though it was all going to work out just right.


    "Let me tuck you in, ok?" Ricky pecked her cheek, turning back to the house as Danielle pouted slightly while resting her head on his shoulders.


    "Okay." Danielle''s muffled words came from Ricky''s shirt as he walked back into the house.


    "Jake, hit the sack because we''re leaving bright and early tomorrow." Ricky notified him, prompting Jake to nod.


    "Alright, sweetheart," Ricky said, brushing a stray blonde curl away from her face. "How about a story tonight?"


    Ricky smiled as he plopped Danielle onto the bed, where she immediately clutched her bear tightly, her little face lighting up with excitement.


    "Alright, what do you want? A little variety, maybe fantasy-"


    "I want to know the story about how you met Chester!" Danielle exclaimed, holding her bear even tighter as her eyes became that of puppy dogs when gazing at Ricky.


    "It''s not that wholesome but we first met about three-four years ago." Ricky realized that it had been a while trying to think back, without mentioning the weird system.


    "I don''t really know how to explain it other than he just appeared, out of thin air almost." Ricky worded it so Danielle could understand, but the little girl tilted her blond pigtails.


    "How?"


    "Uh, like poof-"


    "No daddy-"


    SIGH


    Danielle sighed, reaching out her little hand to pat Ricky''s before shaking her head and looking up at him.


    "What was that for?" Ricky laughed out, seeing Danielle almost pity him as she looked away for a moment then answered.


    "Daddy isn''t good at storytelling, I feel bad for asking." Danielle ducked her head cutely, unknowingly insulting Ricky who twitched his eyebrow in response.


    "Wh-What? I''m the best storyteller, I''ve got numerous awards." Ricky lied to Danielle who''s eyes suddenly sparkled at his words.


    "What kind of awards?"


    "Tall ones that are like this big." Ricky showed the description of the awards through his gestures, stretching his arms wide as Daneille gasped.


    "Woah~" Danielle easily bought into Ricky''s lie, star struck at how large the awards were before he regained himself.


    "Alright, now to prove it, once there was a black knight who was handsome and dashing and downright handsome, also so good looking-"


    Ricky began his tale by boasting to Danielle about his good looks, much to the annoyance of his own daughter, who eventually grew tired of his self-absorption.


    Only then did he shift gears, recounting the epic story of how he had slain a mighty beast and restored peace to lands once teeming with dreadful creatures.


    Ricky poured all his effort into painting himself in the best possible light, crafting a story that revolved around his romantic escapades.


    Danielle, however, was captivated for an entirely different reason as she clung to the edge of her seat, not for the romances he wove into the tale which were clearly intended as the story''s centerpiece, but for the plot itself.


    It was evident that she cared far more about the unfolding narrative than any mention of the women he kept slipping into the story, which she seemed to tune out entirely.


    It was only after the epic climax of the beast being slain that Danielle finally drifted off to sleep.


    Ricky, sitting at the edge of her bed, quietly rose and slipped out of the room and as he stepped into the hallway, he spotted Barko in his dog form, perched silently at the edge of the stairs, watching him with an unreadable expression.


    "I take it you''re not in the mood for a bedtime story either?" Ricky quipped with a chuckle as he started down the stairs, Barko walking silently beside him.


    "I... I think I want to start a lab again," Barko declared boldly, his voice tinged with both hesitation and resolve as Ricky raised a brow, pausing to mull it over for a moment.


    "Alright, I''m guessing you want to pick up your research on the X-gene?" Ricky asked, watching as Barko shook his head before his eyes tinged with resolve.


    "I want to study magic and how it relates to the field of science since I believe the correlation is closer than anyone could ever know." Barko puffed out his chest as Ricky stopped, turning back to the dog.


    "Wait, what about your X-Gene? Turning yourself back-"


    "I... I''ve accepted that this is who I am," Barko said, looking up at Ricky with newfound confidence as he was no longer ashamed of his true self, having embraced who he was in his heart.


    Barko''s strengths were far from the typical ones needed in a fight and unlike his companions, who excelled in physical prowess, his only true gift was his mind.


    However, even his own brain seemed to curse him into this form of a dog and unlike others who picked themselves up, Barko drifted.


    But not in the sense one would expect, he never showed his internal strife and always hid it with a smile.


    He purposely stayed present, just far enough out of reach to truly understand the suffering he was enduring within.


    At first, Barko believed that by mastering magic and regaining the use of his lost limbs, he would finally feel better.


    But after all those years, overcoming countless limitations and achieving the incredible feat of wielding magic despite not being born with it, Barko couldn''t help but look forward.


    More specifically, he couldn''t help but look up.


    Barko knew that he didn''t need to be the strongest for his achievements to hold value, but whenever he looked up at Ricky, he saw an endless mountain.


    And with that gaze came the painful sting of mediocrity, a reminder of how far he still had to climb.


    Even Chores, who had seemingly started from the same place as him, continued to climb higher and higher, leaving Barko feeling smaller with each step of his ascent.


    For a long time, Barko had been content with his place within the fold, looking up with admiration but over time, that contentment began to fade, replaced by a growing bitterness.


    It wasn''t Chores or Ricky he resented, but himself. For a long time, that false sense of content began to poison his very being, as the smile and facade he''d carefully maintained slowly started to crack.


    But at Dracula''s castle, when Barko was drowning in self-doubt, frustrated with only being able to manage a few ghouls, the one who shone a light on him wasn''t Ricky, Chores, or any of the witches or vampires, it was Asterion.


    It was the moment when the high-ranking vampires tried to persuade Asterion that their mistress would handle the situation, but Asterion wasn''t having it.


    He pushed forward, his resolve unwavering, and said the words that would forever change Barko''s life.


    ''The reason being is that I let Ricky face Dracula alone, thinking it might help him finally lay his past to rest.''


    They were such simple words, spoken in the heat of the moment, likely to be glossed over by anyone who heard them the first time.


    But for Barko, it wasn''t the words he heard, it was what he saw and something changed in him, something deeper than mere sound.


    On that endless mountain, the one he always saw when gazing up at Ricky, Barko suddenly realized that Asterion wasn''t looking up like the rest of them, he was looking down, at all of them.


    Ricky was high up, sure, but he was still climbing and even so, despite Asterion being stronger than Ricky in every way, Asterion still reached down, while Ricky continued to reach upward.


    That was the moment Barko truly realized the hands lowering toward him from everyone around him, offering chances to start his climb.


    Yet, he never took them as he had always believed that this was all he''d ever be.


    But Barko needed to know, he needed to ask and so, one day, he approached Asterion, who was peacefully sitting on a rock, staring at the sunset.


    Flashback


    "Asterion, can I have a moment of your time?" Barko walked up to Asterion, the mighty minotaur slightly turning towards him with a smile.


    "Of course, what can I do for you, Barko?" Asterion gestured towards his side, wiping away some of the dirt on the stone as Barko walked over and sat next to him.


    Asterion smiled at him, patiently waiting for the words to come but when Barko opened his mouth to speak, the words caught in his throat as he didn''t truly know how to begin.


    "I-I''m scared." Barko suddenly started, revealing one of his deepest insecurities out of the gate before immediately feeling ashamed.


    "Me too." Asterion chuckled, looking over at the sunset as Barko flinched, looking incredulously at him.


    "Y-You''re scared?" Barko asked, thinking it was unheard of for someone like Asterion to be scared.


    "Of course, I, the father of all minotaurs, am scared of numerous things." Asterion laughed, the beautiful sunrise dazzling onto his smile.


    "It was the reason that I sat in a cave for centuries, because I was scared of living," Asterion said, his voice steady and truthful as Barko slowly ducked his head.


    "H-How did you know-"


    "I didn''t." Asterion interrupted, causing Barko to look at him incredulously once again.


    "T-Then how?" Barko''s mouth became agape, asked Asterion who chuckled before petting his head.


    "When Ricky came to my cave and spoke his intentions, I already knew that he wanted to use me." Asterion''s words shocked Barko, sitting there frozen as the minotaur continued to pat his head.


    "It was very obvious, I mean, I might have been in a cave but that doesn''t mean that I am a fool." Asterion laughed, pinching Barko''s cheek before returning his sight to the sunset.


    "But unlike others who bribed me with riches, false promises, that Ricky was different, weird almost." Asterion recalled their interaction with a hearty laughter.


    "Never has someone come to me and called me purpose ''a load of bullsh*t'' and it very much caught me off guard." Asterion leaned back on the rock, laughing even harder at the courage Ricky showed that day.


    "For so long, I thought I was honoring my friend, but in a way, Ricky was right to say that simply waiting in that tomb was no better than being dead myself." Asterion showed a sad smile after that, looking up at the blue sky dimming by the second.


    "Then over those three years I thought of what my Daedlus would say to me? What would my son say? But most of all, what would my love say?" Asterion then looked at Barko, still reeling from his words.


    "I think they would want me to live and when Ricky came back, that was when I agreed." Asterion revealed the real reason why he came out of that cave.


    "I followed Ricky all the way here because of my appreciation for that fact, giving me a new perspective I never would have had if I had stayed there." Asterion held his heart, the very same holding the scar that always pained in that cave but now, all he could feel was the heart beating in his chest.


    "And for the first time in centuries I am excited, to really live once more and find what it is that lay in wait for my glory!" Asterion gestured towards the sunset, proving of the wonders that lay at the end of it.


    "Do you have any idea of what you want-"


    "None!" Asterion bellowed out a laugh, Barko gazing at him in silence before sulking his head.


    "But that''s what makes it so exciting, that I do not know what lies ahead but I keep going anyway!" Asterion marveled, looking ahead towards the unknown path not with fear, but with excitement.


    "Aren''t you scared that you''ll fail? Of never reaching your potential?" Barko asked, voicing his own insecurities even more but Asterion chuckled.


    "When do you think the best time to plant a tree is?" Asterion asked, watching Barko as he truly began to think about it as the Minotaur then patted his back.


    "It''s eighty years ago!" Asterion laughed, seeing Barko''s sulking expression before he gestured forward.


    "But do you know when the second best time to plant a tree is?" Asterion''s words guided Barko''s gaze forward for the first time since he arrived, his eyes drawn to the beautiful sunset.


    "Now." Asterion''s gentle voice rang in Barko''s ears, watching the creature finally look up for the first time since he got here.


    "Barko, the second best time to plant a tree is now."


    END Flashback


    "I want to grow, like a tree!" Barko was still in his own memory and blurted out towards Ricky, who stood there scratching his head.


    "Wait, no I-" Barko stammered, his cheeks flushing as his words faltered, completely derailed by the metaphorical forest of thoughts tangling in his mind.


    "Here''s the deal, Barko, I really do value you as a comrade but I''m in the business of making money and I don''t see how research can do that." Ricky said, looking down at Barko, who went to reply but stopped in his tracks.


    "So how about this, Meyer has been looking after my clubs, but I need someone to replace him until I can come back and finally learn how to do it myself," Ricky said, causing Barko''s head to jerk back in surprise.


    "So here''s the deal, you look after my clubs and manage them until I get back, and I''ll fork up the money for your research, deal?" Ricky said, holding out his hand and reaching down towards him.


    But instead of looking down and simply accepting that this was where he would always be, Barko finally reached up.


    "Deal, and Slick, I swear I won''t let you down and prove to you how valuable my research will be," Barko said, saluting with his paw as Ricky chuckled.


    "We''ll see, go to my pops after we leave and he''ll square it away." Ricky waved as Barko smiled white his tail wagging as he puffed out his furry chest.


    "I won''t let you down, Slick. My research is going to be a tree, a big, beautiful tree!" Barko said, his voice trembling as he wiped his eyes and with that proclamation, Ricky finally smiled.


    "It f*cking better be!" Ricky called out, walking out of the mansion with a laugh.


    Ricky left the house and soared into the night, eventually arriving at a neighborhood purchased under the bank, where the coven was staying for the time being.


    It was only temporary, until they took over New York, since Ricky planned to give them a burrow to completely control.


    As he arrived at the front door, Ricky saw Zatanna pouting through the window, arms crossed, while Agatha sighed beside her.


    "No, I want Daddy to tuck me in," Zatanna said, her body going limp as her cheeks puffed out as Agatha pinched the bridge of her nose in exasperation.


    "Zatanna, daddy is-"


    "DADDY!" Zatanna cried, flying forward and ramming into Ricky, her giddy laughter echoing through the air.


    "Surprise!" Ricky laughed, but Agatha simply turned away, walking to tuck baby Johnny, sucking on his binky, sound asleep.


    "Alright, let''s tuck you in," Ricky said, kissing Zatanna''s forehead as she smiled and hugged him as they walked to her room.


    For the next five minutes, Zatanna eagerly told him everything he had done since they had last spoken, until she finally tired herself out and drifted off to sleep.


    Turning around, Ricky saw Agatha leaning against the doorway, rolling her eyes at his sleazy smile.


    "Don''t even give me that look." Agatha scoffed, trying to walk away only for Ricky''s hands to slink around her waist.


    "What look?" Ricky asked, nestling his head on her shoulder as she looked away.


    "Save it, Ricky, I know you''re leaving." Agatha said, breaking away and walking back to the kitchen, with Ricky following her.


    "Baby, you know I''ll come back-"


    "Do not baby me, Ricky, I''m serious right now," Agatha said, holding up a finger as she did the dishes by hand, even though they both knew full well she could use magic to do them.


    "I''m serious too, this isn''t me going off to fool around but to protect our future-"


    Crash


    "How are you going to Texas to protect our future when you could stay here, and protect our real future?!" Agatha threw the plate into the sink, glaring at Ricky, who finally realized what this was about.


    "Agatha-"


    Sniff


    "Don''t." Agatha started tearing up, backing away only to give in as Ricky took her into his embrace.


    "Agatha, I swear to you that I''m not going to just abandon you, I love you," Ricky whispered, stroking the back of her hair as Agatha grabbed his shirt, squeezing it tightly.


    Hitting her head against her chest, Agatha didn''t know what was wrong with her since this wasn''t supposed to happen.


    All Ricky was ever supposed to be was a piece of meat, some short-term relief, but somehow, she had unknowingly fallen for him, and fallen hard.


    Agatha had grown to truly love Ricky, not just as the father of her children, but as a partner in life and for that reason, it scared her.


    Agatha had never felt this way for any man the way she felt for Ricky, even with her extended life it was still something new to her.


    It was a strange scenario as even with two kids and the understanding that Ricky was there to save and protect her coven, he had always been meant to be a safeguard.


    Yet somehow, someway, he had slithered into her heart and stuck there.


    It took an insufferably long time to admit, but when Agatha looked at Ricky, she couldn''t deny the reality that had always either slipped out or been unconscious in her actions.


    "Agatha, look at me." Ricky tentatively asked, his voice soft as her tear-filled eyes met his as his green eyes were filled with warmth as he gently caressed her cheek.


    "I promise you, no matter what, even if you end up hating me, I will never leave you alone." Ricky laughed softly, and Agatha chuckled as well, wiping her eyes.


    "You can''t ever leave me, leave us," Agatha sniffled, her voice trembling, and Ricky kissed her forehead gently, his heart swelling with the weight of her words.


    "Never." Ricky whispered, his voice filled with certainty, before lifting Agatha into a princess carry.


    He held her close, walking back to the bedroom, his steps steady, as if he had already made his peace with the promise he had just made.


    Sniff


    It was just three words, a simple feeling, and even if they had been held in for so long, the world would continue to spin as normal.


    Yet, when Agatha looked up at Ricky, she couldn''t help but finally utter the words she had kept hidden within her heart for so long.


    "I love you," Agatha said, her voice thick with emotion, her fear lingering in the words.


    She was scared that even though Ricky had promised, he wouldn''t say it back, that somehow, it wouldn''t be enough.


    "Oh really-"


    "Ricky~" Agatha whined, trying to pull away, but Ricky silenced her with a passionate kiss, his lips firm against hers as it was the kind of kiss that made her forget everything else, just for a moment.


    "I love you too." Ricky uttered the words that forever made her heart at ease, walking towards the bed as they snuggled next to each other.


    Although it''s easier for Ricky to express feelings through his cock, sometimes the words, the true emotions, are harder to convey.


    Ricky, understanding this, didn''t seek to prove his sincerity with his body this time and instead, he chose to show it through his actions by holding Agatha gently, letting her rest peacefully in his arms.

 Chapter 122 - 118: Three Years In The Making

    Chapter 122: Chapter 118: Three Years In The Making


    Next day,


    BAM


    BAM


    BAM


    Ricky''s eyes snapped open, hearing a banging and his instincts kicking in as his muscles tensed as his eyes blackened.


    Chastifold manifested into his palm, kicking open the door only not to see any form of an intruder, but Johnny slamming his bowl onto the table.


    Sigh


    Putting on a shirt, Ricky walked over to the unruly children who wanted to fill their stomachs.


    "Johnny, really?" Ricky asked, his expression one of mild exasperation as he rubbed his eyes causing John to pout, and without missing a beat, Ricky scooped him up into his arms.


    "Let me guess, you want breakfast?" Ricky asked Johnny, who stubbornly nodded his head, clearly upset that his usual breakfast was taking too long.


    Plopping him down in his booster seat, Ricky walked to the fridge, only to have Zatanna grab his leg.


    "Hehehehehe~" Zatanna laughed madly as Ricky continued to walk, her little hands gripping his leg, with Johnny eventually joining in, giggling as he grabbed onto Ricky''s other leg.


    A couple of minutes later, Ricky made them breakfast and pried the kids off his legs, placing them in their chairs.


    As he made his own breakfast and poured a cup of coffee, he picked up the newspaper and chuckled loudly at the headline.


    ''Ricky Luciano, a mutant who is fighting against America''s way of life.''


    "Ha, they''re really annoyed aren''t they? Good." Ricky sipped his coffee, a satisfied smirk tugging at his lips since bad publicity was still publicity, and he knew it could work to his advantage.


    Just then, Agatha waltzed into the kitchen, wearing a night garment that clung to her body, covering the important parts while fully showcasing her sensual curves.


    Thump


    The table suddenly rattled as Ricky''s gaze lingered on Agatha''s body as the woman side-eyed him with a lustful smile, a playful wink accompanying her teasing expression.


    "Darling, are you still sure you want to leave all of this?" Agatha twirled into his lap, wrapping her arms around Ricky, who held her close, a smirk tugging at his lips as he looked at her.


    "I''m still going but-"


    "Too bad, and here I thought there could be dessert for breakfast." Agatha suddenly pulled Ricky into a deep, sloppy kiss before breaking it with a playful grin.


    "I''m going to shatter your pelvis when you come back." Agatha whispered into his ear, biting it slightly before sitting up as Ricky shuddered at the promise, his breath catching for a moment.


    "My god woman, you cannot leave me like this-"


    "Oh, I can and I will," Agatha teased, swaying her hips as she left the kitchen. Ricky bit his fist, watching her go, her final glance a tempting challenge.


    He had to be strong, there were bigger things at stake, but the weight of her words lingered in the air, making it all the more difficult to tear himself away.


    ''Be strong, be f*cking strong!'' Ricky thought to himself, standing up and kissing his kids goodbye.


    "I''ll be back soon, alright?" Ricky said, looking at Zatanna and Johnny but they barely registered his words, too focused on filling their stomachs to pay him any mind.


    "Ok!" Zatanna happily munched on her toast, swaying her head side to side and doing a little dance as she ate.


    "Hmph." Johnny gruffed, stuffing his face while clutching his teddy bear tightly.


    Walking out the door, Ricky glanced back to see Agatha standing in the doorway, smiling and waving at him.


    He returned her smile, a sense of warmth flooding through him before he looked towards her with one thought on his mind.


    "What about a goodbye blowjob-"


    Bam


    The door slammed shut in his face, and Ricky nodded to himself, knowing that it was better to focus anyway.


    He got into the car, the engine roaring to life as he drove off, his mind drifting between thoughts of Agatha and what was ahead.


    His destination was clear but before anything he needed to say goodbye to Alina and Maria before leaving as he didn''t want to drag it out, but he knew it was something that had to be done.


    2 hours later,


    After saying his goodbyes to Alina and Maria during two separate stops, Ricky arrived at the mansion to find a car waiting for him.


    For this trip, the only ones accompanying him were Asterion, Jake, his lead council member Marshall, and his familiars.


    They were going to drive in two separate cars, with the primary reason being that Asterion wanted to learn how to drive on the way to Texas.


    Jake and Marshall would tail behind, keeping an eye on the amateur driver Asterion, while Ricky, curious to see how Asterion would fare, decided to accompany him in the car.


    But first, Ricky was dealing with another headache in the form of rattling skeletons in the basement of the mansion.


    Ricky had ordered the low-level skeleton soldiers to act as guards, buried within the grounds outside the mansion.


    Now, he stood before the two who were assigned to stay behind and guard the internal areas.


    The only problem being that these two endlessly bickered amongst themselves to no end as Ricky could sit at the side.


    "You fool, don''t you see our glorious masters plan?" Chuck gestured towards Ricky, hatefully gazing towards Boney.


    "This is about securing the future, protecting our master''s bloodline." Chuck stated a matter of factly, Ricky nodding at the side since he explained it as such.


    "But that is not the entire reason." Chuck raised his undead chin, receiving confused glances.


    "It''s not?" Both Ricky and Boney said in unison, looking at Chuck equally confused.


    "This is about trust, about loyalty, about proving ourselves worthy at standing next to our master in his plans of complete world domination." Chuck gripped his hands, looking fanatically into the distance.


    "How can we merely attain the position at our masters'' side without proving ourselves, without showing that we are worthy." Chuck clutched his ribcage, resting his hand above where his heart would''ve been.


    "We must prove our worth as guards, then as soldiers, and finally aides at our masters'' side." Chuck smiled, looking over at Boney who nodded heavily at this realization.


    "I get it!" Boney pumped his fist, ready to show that he was worthy as Ricky stood even more confused at the side.


    ''I don''t.'' Ricky thought, coughing a bit but before he could ruin Chuck''s parade, he saw what he thought was hope glimmering in his hollow eyes forcing him to sigh.


    SIGH


    ''I''ll just let him have this one, what''s the worst thing that could happen?''


    "Of course you figured it out, good job Chuck." Ricky applauded Chuck who merely bowed at his words.


    "It was only through your guidance master that I was able to reach this state of thinking, I thank you." Chuck humbly showed his gratitude towards Ricky, watching his master slowly nod his head.


    "Yeaaaaaaah, I gotta go so just keep doing what you''re doing." Ricky''s words make Chuck''s hollow eyes sparkle, seemingly understanding the underlying meaning.


    "I understand."


    Ricky sort of walked out of the mansion, pondering about the greater meaning in his original words as he stopped outside the car.


    ''No, I''m pretty sure I only said ''Hey, can you two just guard inside the house since you''re the strongest?''.'' Ricky mulled over his own words, not truly knowing what to think after Chuck''s entire monologue earlier.


    "Eh, whatever." Ricky shrugged, opening the door to find Asterion hunched over and fiddling around with the car.


    The father of all minotaurs was really excited about a long distance road trip with the amazing mechanical chariot.


    So much so that when Ricky offered him the chance to drive, Asterion eagerly seized it and even now, the minotaur remained captivated by the various trinkets inside the car.


    "Alright, listen up, Asterion. This is ten, and that''s two." Ricky, already sliding into the front seat, guided the dazzled Asterion, who looked at the car as if it were a new toy.


    "And how do I make this contraption go forward?" Asterion asked, his curiosity piqued while Ricky, meanwhile, pulled out a bottle of hell wine, eager to cruise through the road trip with a nice buzz.


    "If I may, Asterion, those two pedals-" Chester began, but seeing Ricky preparing to crack open the bottle of hell wine he''d heard so much about, he quickly darted to the dashboard.


    Chester then started giving Asterion an impromptu, overly detailed explanation on how to drive a car.


    It ranged from the most minute details, like adjusting the mirrors, to how exactly to drive the car.


    Asterion listened intently, absorbing every word with the focus of someone learning a new language.


    Meanwhile in the backseat, Garfield lazily laid on his side while Alexander opened a fresh new deck of cards.


    "Why do you always play a game that ends with you losing?" Garfield sighed, swishing his tail in the air while scratching his stomach, as Alexander shook his head.


    "Why live when we all die?" Alexander wondered out loud, shuffling the cards as Garfield raised a brow.


    "Why laugh when one day we might cry?" Alexander then dealt those cards, until there were three sets.


    "The best part about victory is the effort we give to reach it." Alexander explained, looking at his cards while imparting advice onto Garfield.


    Sigh


    "I still don''t see the point and I want to take a nap, so unless you can somehow convince me then goodnight." Garfield leaned back, shifting in place to find a comfortable spot to settle down as Alexander puffed out his chest.


    Ahem


    "Go Fish is a noble game, a valiant plunge into the depths of the mind-" Alexander began, professing his love for the game as Garfield rolled his eyes, only to suddenly make eye contact with Chester.


    5 minutes later,


    "W-What? When did I get these cards?!" Garfield''s fur stood on end as he stared at the reader, bewildered by the sudden retcon.


    "Do you have any three''s?" Chester, the one responsible, asked only for Garfield to read the text and duck his head upon the crow squinting his eyes.


    "N-No." Garfield ducked his head, obviously intimidated by-


    "I am not intimidated, merely going along with my fellow familiar''s games," Garfield lied poorly, frowning as he realized that everyone except him could tell he was lying as the cat was clearly in denial.


    "You''re in denial." Garfield muttered, prying a pair of jacks from Alexander who crumbled in place.


    "Man, if Mephisto wasn''t such a dick, I''d make a deal with him for a steady flow of this wine," Ricky lamented, clutching the bottle tightly as it was one of the best liquors he''d ever had.


    "Ricky, you should be very wary of that little conniving demon." Asterion warned Ricky who sighed, taking a sip of the wine and slumping further into his chair.


    "What''s his deal, anyway? I mean, the guy is just erect for my soul." Ricky glanced at Asterion, who was grinning from ear to ear as they drove through New York, before shaking his head.


    "Ah, I apologize, Mephisto is obsessed with souls because his dimension isn''t classified as a hell dimension but he merely displays it as one." Asterion clarified, knowing that Ricky wouldn''t know such an obvious thing since he hasn''t trekked into that world as of yet.


    "What does that even mean?" Ricky, following Asterion''s assumption, asked for clarification.


    "It means that, unlike other underworlds which receive a constant influx of souls, Mephisto has to constantly outsource from the human world to collect them." Asterion explained, looking at the speedometer to maintain the speed limit.


    "He does this because underworlds grow stronger with every death, meaning he can never stay in one place and must constantly find ways to rival their power." Asterion sighed, acknowledging the effort but clearly bitter about the methods Mephisto used.


    "Wait so, he''s not the devil? Then why is it such a big deal that he acts as one or even portrays himself as that?" Ricky raised an eyebrow, asking his questions only for Asterion to shake his head.


    "He is technically a devil, but at the same time, he is not." Asterion explained, stopping to register his words as you could see from his clear hesitance that it was a peculiar subject.


    "Mephisto was born from the death of Demogorge, the dark energy that resulted from his demise had given birth to three demons, including Mephisto." Asterion continued, knowing the story that Mephisto had told Daedlus.


    "I do not know if this is the real story since Mephisto has changed it many times, but the one he told Daedlus goes as follows ''I sprouted from the wilting of Demogorge, the blood seeping into the ground and blossoming three bulbs, however two of the bulbs were weeds and corrupted the innocent flower before it could properly bloom, leaving the bulb forced to show it''s petals to the world, all by itself'' and this story has changed but what has always remained a constant was that Mephisto is not privy to the authority of death." Asterion explained, almost losing Ricky in the process since it was a lot to digest and even when he was confused, the minotaur didn''t stop his words.


    "Authorities are typically granted to gods or earned through various means." Asterion began, speaking to Ricky with a calm, methodical tone.


    "But to put it simply, these authorities channel direct power into a specific trait or ability. It''s like a focused force, something attuned to strength, wisdom, or even something more abstract, like luck or death. Gods, or those who gain authority, tap into this concentrated power, making them more dominant in that particular area. It''s not about control over everything; it''s about amplifying one key aspect of their being." Asterion knew all too well of these traits, since he was in possession of one himself.


    "Even though I was born with a trait of strength, Mephisto was not given a single one." Asterion actually pitied the demon for a second before regaining himself.


    "Mephisto has his own dimension that was given to him by birth, but none of the authority that should''ve gone with it and thus, needs to proactively gain souls in order to maintain and strengthen his dimension, and power." Asteiron concluded, slightly turning onto the highway but his speed was that of an old lady.


    "In my opinion it is a point of pride to him since although he is not a death god, he has been mistaken as satan and thus must have convinced himself, along with everything else, that he is one." Asterion gave his thoughts, thinking that the identity attached to him has already forced that path for Mephisto.


    "But as I stated prior, not many know his origins since he always tells a different story, but one thing''s for sure: he''s someone who cannot be trusted," Asterion warned, waving his finger and prompting Ricky to nod, yawning as he leaned his seat back.


    "Deal me in." Ricky said, almost upside down, holding out his hand and Chester promptly placed the cards into his grip.


    "Do you have any eights?" Ricky asked, taking a swig of his wine. Alexander''s face went ashen.


    "Ha!" Ricky laughed, feeling like he was taking candy from a baby, as he settled more comfortably into his seat.


    3 hours later,


    "Finally~" Ricky let out a relieved sigh, placing down a pair as Alexander fell to his gerbil knee''s, Chester nodded, and Garfield rolled his eyes.


    "Exactly my words, this boring game has taken enough of my time." Garfield threw the cards into the pile as any poor loser would.


    Honestly, for the past three hours, Chester had been wiping the floor with them until Ricky finally won a round for himself, remembering first hand how good Chestser was at this game.


    Ricky wondered what the outcome might be if Asterion and Chester ever squared off.


    However, that showdown would have to wait, as the Minotaur seemed too captivated by the scenery of the State and the forest but the passing sign didn''t read that they were leaving New York but instead the opposite, showing that they were driving upstate for some reason.


    But the Minotaur was uncaring in this fact, having never driven cross-country at such a thrilling pace, Asterion was genuinely reveling in the journey as the wonders of the open road had ensnared yet another soul.


    "Why are they pulling over?" Asterion asked, glancing at Ricky, who stretched his arms before answering.


    "Because we gotta refuel. We''re low on gas," Ricky replied, tapping the fuel gauge for emphasis and Asterion leaned over, noting how low it was, and gave a nod of understanding.


    "We''re being followed," Chester suddenly announced as Ricky, though surprised, stayed calm and checked the rearview mirrors.


    "Where?" Asterion asked, abandoning any notion of subtlety as he turned to spot three cars trailing in the distance.


    SIGH


    "How long?" Ricky asked, unaware they were being followed, mostly because he had been too focused on beating Chester.


    "The last hour. They''ve been keeping a distance so that they are just barely within view of us." Chester revealed, watching as Asterion pulled into the gas station alongside Jake and Marshall.


    "Ha!" Jake laughed at Marshall in a mocking tone, but the lawyer wagged a finger in response.


    "White boys are nice with the bat, but you''ve never seen a cat play the game." Marshall said with a chuckle, leaving Jake to roll his eyes.


    "There is only one right way to play the game and no one plays to better than Babe-"


    "That''s ''cause Babe never played with anyone other than the untalented folks," Marshall said, leaning against the car with a laugh as he glanced off to the side, leaving Jake momentarily speechless.


    "Slick, jake over there says that the only way to play the game of baseball is the fundamental way, the white way-"


    "That''s not what I said. All I meant is, if they want to play in the same league, they should play the game right," Jake clarified, his tone carrying an unintentional hint of racism he didn''t even realize but Marshall, however, actually laughed at this.


    "There''s no right way to play the game; there''s only winning," Ricky said with a yawn as he headed toward the gas station to pay for their fuel.


    "See!" Marshall pointed at Jake, who simply shook his head.


    "That ain''t proving anything. Slick''s known for riling people up and only taking sides when it''s convenient for him." Jake revealed, and Ricky laughed, casting a side-eye at Jake whose smile slowly faded.


    Jake instinctively glanced in his rearview mirror, spotting the three cars driving down the road before steering into the gas station.


    "Marshall, get in the car," Jake said seriously, but Marshall, still chuckling, waved him off, thinking they were still just messing around.


    "Oh come on Jakey, don''t tell me you''ve-"


    "Marshall," Jake said, his eyes hard and serious. Marshall flinched, glancing to the side before quickly getting into the car as Jake reached for the gun tucked behind his back.


    Ricky slapped three dollars on the counter, paying for the gas and a bottle of water, then walked out to see men stepping out of the cars.


    "Sorry, boys, but first come, first serve, I''m afraid!" Ricky yelled over to the men stepping out, and the leader of the group smirked in response.


    He wore a dark, tailored suit, the fabric sturdy yet refined, with a crisp white shirt beneath, buttoned up to the neck.


    A narrow black tie was knotted precisely at the collar, adding a touch of formality to his ensemble.


    The guy''s jacket was double-breasted, the lapels broad and peaked, giving him an air of authority.


    The coat, charcoal gray in color, was made of a thick wool blend, perfect for the long hours he spent on the job, often outdoors or in unheated buildings.


    The trousers matched, tailored to a straight leg that sat comfortably over polished black leather boots, sturdy yet elegant, built for both walking and running when the situation demanded.


    On his head, he wore a bowler hat, its rounded crown and narrow brim lending a subtle nod to the era''s style.


    The hat sat low, casting a slight shadow over his eyes, which were sharp and ever-watchful.


    But the thing that really caught their eyes was a single silver badge pinned to the lapel of his jacket, gleaming subtly in the light, signifying his authority and spelling out one name ''Pinkerton''.


    "Is that so? Such a shame, right boys?" The man said, sitting on the hood of his car, adjusting his cowboy hat and twirling the toothpick between his lips.


    The boys behind him merely raised their gazes but unlike their supposed ringleader, none of them wore smiles.


    "F*ck~" Jake let out a small breath, recognizing exactly who these men were, and Ricky frowned, but was simply annoyed at their presence.


    "So, what are Pinkertons doing in the middle of bumf*ck nowhere?" Jake asked, his tone sharp.


    Ricky walked over to the truck where Marshall was currently in and stood by the trunk, keeping a close watch on the situation.


    "Sightseeing?" the ringleader asked casually, his posse behind him laughing at his words.


    "Cut the sh*t." Ricky shot back, crossing his arms after knowing that these guys never went anywhere unless they were hired since Lucky had crossed paths with Pinkertons before.


    Lucky''s involvement with the labor union wasn''t anything new since he was one of the founders of the Teamsters.


    However, the corporation couldn''t directly oppose him, so instead, they hired Pinkertons to handle the problem from the shadows.


    The Pinkertons were often hired by corporations to monitor and suppress union activities, continuing their controversial role as strikebreakers, a practice they had been involved in since the late 19th century.


    Even now, Lucky was trying to mend a relationship that had soured over the years as the stressful times, combined with his recent branch openings, had led to a rise in bank robberies due to the economic downturn.


    Pinkerton agents were often employed by banks and insurance companies to investigate thefts and protect assets, making their presence all the more significant.


    ''Lucky''s gonna kill me for beating these guys to a bloody pulp.'' Ricky lightly dropped his head with a small sigh, knowing how badly Lucky was working to get back on their good side.


    "So you''re Lucky''s boy, Ricky, right? Or is it Slick?" The man grinned wider, but Ricky just scoffed, a smile tugging at his lips.


    "Well, since I know your name, it''s only fair you know mine. Name''s Robert Pinkerton II, but you can call me Rob." Rob tipped his hat, and Ricky slicked his hair back with an exaggerated sigh.


    "Alright, you''ve got a minute to explain why you''re here before I kick your ass." Ricky rolled up his sleeves, ready to personally beat the crap out of him.


    "Well, we''ll be out of your hair if you hand over that feller in the car," Rob said, pointing at Marshall, who flinched, even through the reflection in the rearview mirror.


    "My leading council-"


    "He''s got some unpaid parking tickets, and the city wants him back," Rob said with a grin, and his boys behind him laughed, slowly drawing their pistols.


    "Slick, you can''t kill them-" Jake suddenly popped up from the side, only to be pushed away by Ricky.


    "I know, Lucky already told me." Ricky waved him off while walking over to Rob who stood up, thinking he was all talk.


    "Listen Ricky is it-" Rob drew an arrogant smile, puffing out his chest to Ricky only for his chin to suddenly turn to the side.


    "BAM


    Ricky''s fist slammed into Rob''s jaw, catching him off guard as his eyes widened in shock, unable to see it coming.


    Ricky''s knuckles cracked through Rob''s jaw, the sound of splintering bone echoing as Rob''s nerve endings screamed in agony.


    BANG


    One of the Pinkertons, nervous and shaking as he held his pistol at Ricky, accidentally fired. Ricky laughed maniacally as the bullet collided with his forcefield, bouncing off and clattering to the ground.


    Crack


    "You did not just pull that trigger." Ricky laughed, cracking his knuckles as the dozen Pinkertons suddenly charged at him.


    "Clench your teeth boys, this is gonna hurt a bit." Ricky''s grin widened, raising his eyes to all of them with an arrogant smirk which infuriated them to their core.


    The first Pinkerton lunged, but Ricky sidestepped with ease, his fist connecting with the man''s jaw in a sickening crunch as the agent crumpled to the ground, out cold before he even hit the dirt.


    None of these ordinary hired guns, with no discernible traits beyond the weapons they wielded and the bullets they fired, stood out in any way.


    For someone who had faced Dracula and far stronger minions, these guys were exactly like the pink balloon he''d swiped from a kid just a few days ago.


    Laughable and easy.


    Without missing a beat, Ricky spun on his heel, catching another agent by the wrist mid-punch.


    "AHHHHHHH!" The man let out a sharp, piercing screech, his voice thick with pain as he watched the scene unfold before his eyes.


    Ricky twisted the man''s wrist sharply, the bone snapping like a twig under his grip, forcing another agonized howl from the Pinkerton''s lips.


    Ricky shoved him aside, his foot lashing out to meet the chest of another attacker, sending him sprawling backward into two of his comrades.


    With an estimated strength of 53, placing him in the lower realm of superhuman abilities, he had long surpassed the natural human limit.


    At this moment, he possessed the power to exert a force capable of lifting up to 1.6 tons.


    Although this was comparatively weak in the supernatural world, and outright feeble when considered on its own, to the regular humans around him, the dread began to seep into their eyes as they gazed at Ricky.


    "Come on, let me see that Pinkerton force!" Ricky taunted, his voice dripping with mockery as the Pinkertons grunts looked at one another.


    "AHHHHHHHH!" They all roared out battle cries, rushing fiercely at Ricky with the first one to make it to him holding a baton, swinging across his body only for Ricky to dodge beneath the motion.


    Ricky came up fast, driving his elbow into the gut of the nearest man, who doubled over with a gasp only to have his face grabbed and pulled back down.


    Ricky followed up with a knee to the face, feeling the satisfying crunch of cartilage of this grunts nose under the force of the blow.


    The remaining Pinkertons hesitated, but their fear only fueled Ricky''s adrenaline, his eyes glimmering black as he darted forward, grabbing one by the collar and slamming his head against a nearby wall, leaving a smear of blood in his wake.


    Another agent rushed in, but Ricky was faster, grabbing his arm and flipping him over with brutal efficiency as the man''s back hit the ground with a thud, the wind knocked from his lungs.


    Two Pinkertons came at him from either side, trying to overwhelm him with numbers.


    Ricky ducked under their wild swings, slamming his fists into their kidneys, causing them to drop to their knees in agony as he pivoted, catching one by the neck and choking him out in seconds, his strength undeniable.


    The last few agents exchanged worried glances, but Ricky was already on them.


    He threw a devastating punch that landed square on a jaw, sending the man spinning to the ground.


    The final two tried to flee, but Ricky was too lost in the moment to let them escape his grasp as he grabbed the closest one by the back of his coat, yanking him down and slamming a fist into his temple.


    The last Pinkerton managed to finally clear a distance, but Ricky grabbed a discarded baton and hurled it with precision, striking the man in the back of the head and dropping him instantly.


    Ricky stood amidst the carnage, his knuckles bloody but his smile unscathed as he looked down at the dozen Pinkertons now lying broken and defeated around him, their uniforms smeared with dirt and blood.


    "Oh, whoops." Ricky leaned down, wiping his bloodied hands on the closets passed out guy that so happened to be Rob.


    Grabbing Rob, he dragged him aside before hurling him against the side of the gas station, while the attendant cowered behind the counter.


    "Ugh~" Rob grunted, his voice slurred as he winced in pain, reaching up to realign his jaw with a sharp crack.


    "URGH!" Rob couldn''t move another inch as Ricky stomped on his shoulder, pinning him firmly against the wall.


    "Why couldn''t we have just talked this out, instead of me kicking your ass and putting you in this pitiful state where you''re now my bitch, huh, Rob?" Ricky asked sincerely, pressing his foot deeper into Rob''s shoulder and twisting it side to side, intensifying the pain.


    Sigh


    "But you''re useful to my pops and to our future business so I''m gonna cut you some slack and I already know what you''re going to say, but you''re welcome." Ricky raised out his hand, stopping the nonexistent appreciation that would never come out of Rob''s mouth.


    "So, listen, Rob, just tell me who hired you, really hired you, and I''ll let you go," Ricky said, grabbing one of Rob''s fingers as the Pinkerton gritted his teeth, struggling to hold back a pained response.


    "I can''t f*cking do that-


    CRACK


    "ARRRRRGH!" Rob gritted his teeth, his eyes bulging as Ricky bent his pointer finger to the right with a sharp, cracking sound.


    "Tell me Robby boy, before I make your limbs into puzzle pieces before having you assembled in a barrel then thrown at the bottom of the sea." Ricky warned, shaking his perfectly intact finger side to side.


    In all honesty, Ricky could have easily mind-controlled them with a spell, but it was inevitable that they would cross paths in the corporate world.


    At this point, the two were so deeply intertwined within it that Ricky believed it would be more effective for Rob Pinkerton, one of the company''s heirs, to know that he could be dismantled at any moment.


    But besides, things like mind-control were last resorts and Ricky wouldn''t use it unless Rob was stubborn to the very end.


    Huff


    "Let me ask you a question-"


    CRACK


    "AH!" Rob tried to ask a question, only for his ring finger to be bent sharply.


    "Better do it fast-"


    "Why is a guy like you driving in the wrong direction?" Rob asked, noticing it was odd that Ricky wasn''t heading directly toward Texas, but instead toward the rural farmlands of New York.


    "Good question."


    CRACK


    "It''s too bad I''m the one asking the questions and demanding answers, but ten points for effort," Ricky laughed, then swiftly breaking Rob''s thumb to his horror.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    "Rob, I''m not f*cking with you. I''m really going to break every one of your fingers. I mean, look at me, I''m Ricky Luciano, not some random criminal or low-paid worker you boys round up for pennies." Ricky laughed out, turning the man''s head to the side to reveal the wreckage of his men.


    "And if you don''t tell me soon, I''m going to have to go after your boys over there and make you watch as I rip them apart." Ricky whispered to Rob. Rob''s eyes narrowed, his teeth gritted. He was a bastard, but he actually gave a damn about his men.


    "One of Dewey''s boys," Rob confessed, and Ricky laughed before stepping off of him.


    "That''s hilarious." Ricky muttered, walking back to the car as he pondered what to do with them.


    "Slick, if you kill them-"


    "Kill them?" Ricky raised an eyebrow, pulling out a wad of money and tossing it at Rob.


    "I''m not gonna kill them. I''m gonna hire them," Ricky revealed, as Rob clutched his injured hand in disgust.


    "And what makes you think I''ll work for some freak?" Rob snarled as Ricky leaned back against the car.


    "Because, Rob, it''s good to make connections but most of all, friends. Don''t you want to be my friend?" Ricky said, reaching out, deciding to give these men a chance. The Pinkertons were valuable, after all.


    They were essentially legal hitmen, and Ricky would soon need this force before he could properly build one of his own to take down his competitors and all the civilians who stood against him.


    "What about my boys, huh? What about them!" Rob pointed, wincing at the sudden movement, his voice full of hate as he looked at the men who, he feared, might never be able to hold their kids again.


    "How am I supposed to-" Rob started to finish, but Ricky interrupted, yanking one of the guys up and channeling his psychic power into him.


    The man''s black eye, concussion, and busted lip slowly began to heal before Ricky dropped him back to the ground as the guy groaned out softly before his eyes flickered open.


    "You see, Rob, the cool thing about freaks is that we can do so many freakish things," Ricky revealed, watching as Rob slowly closed his mouth.


    As Ricky walked toward him, Rob averted his gaze, feeling a green aura slowly seep from Ricky.


    His eyes were deadly, seemingly piercing into Rob in the most threatening way, yet his words were completely contradictory.


    "So, how about it, want to be my friend?" Ricky laughed at his own cheesy words, leaving Rob in a bind and slowly, Rob looked up.


    "A-A-Alright, but heal my boys."


    10 minutes later,


    "Phew~" Ricky wiped the sweat from his forehead, healing everyone, including Rob as it had been harder than actually beating them up.


    Then he slung his arm around Rob, leading him over to the side as his men stood awkwardly and powerless to the side.


    "So, what do you need from us?" Rob asked, staring at his perfectly healed hand before looking up at Ricky, still clearly uncomfortable with his own words.


    "I want you to go around and trouble the families'' businesses back in New York," Ricky said with a smile, giving Rob a pat on the chest as he watched as Rob slowly formed an ugly frown.


    "We are detective-"


    "Cut the sh*t, you''re a legal thug, so don''t try to say otherwise," Ricky pointed at Rob, who avoided his gaze, looking to the side.


    "Even if we wanted to, Pinkertons wouldn''t be able to go after their illegal operations-"


    "Then don''t, but they''re legit businesses, and Rob, make them hurt," Ricky said, patting Rob''s shoulder before getting into the car.


    "Wait, it''s not that simple-"


    "You know, that seems like one of your problems." Ricky laughed, looking at the distressed Rob before he pulled out a wad of money and a list, then shoved it towards him through the car window.


    "Oh and by the way, if I find out you''re not being very friendly with your hired task-"


    "I know, broken fingers and skulls at the bottom of the sea." Rob interrupted him, holding his forehead and holding out his healed hand with the now wad of money.


    "Good man." Ricky cackled out, tapping the top of the car while signaling Asterion to continue the drive.


    Ricky and his gang drove off, leaving Rob sitting there in silence for a long time, staring at their departure.


    "Boss, you sure that was a good idea since I mean, the guy''s a f*cking monster?" One of his guys asked from the side, rubbing the back of his neck and wondering out loud with many nodding along.


    "Boys, did any of you see a single drop of sweat on that guy?" Rob genuinely asked, turning to any of them as they all looked to the side.


    "I''m not going to stand here and say that I''m all that comfortable with the perimeters of this new job, but let me ask all of you this." Rob flicked his cigarette to the side, his stomach too queasy to smoke as he spread out his arms.


    "Any of you, any of you at all, been beaten to a pulp by a guy who can''t even be shot?" Rob asked around, looking at each one of them until they all looked away at his gaze.


    "Cause I haven''t and on top of that fcking sht sandwich, we''re all just above the cut mercenaries." Rob laughed out, holding his forehead while almost ridiculing his past self for his stupidity.


    "How were we ever supposed to scare that-hell, how the hell were we going to beat that, THAT!" Rob looked to be on the verge of a panic attack, taking a second to regain himself as the clear angst in his voice spoke more volumes than the words he uttered.


    Gazing down at the list filled with names of businesses, Rob squeezed it tightly before unraveling it to read it clearly


    "So change of plans boys, we got a new job against actual opponents."


    2 hours later,


    "Is this the place?" Ricky asked, glancing at Chester, who nodded while surveying the dilapidated farm.


    "I''ve always suggested that Rockefeller meet me at the house first, then come down here on the thirtieth to check on the farm before I replant the suggestion." Chester informed him, relieved that he no longer had to use the genjutsu on Rockefeller anymore.


    Instead of heading straight to Texas, Ricky first needed to reap the gains from the investment that had originally kept Chester behind.


    This reward was three years in the making, but now that Ricky''s plans were set in motion, he was finally ready to claim everything that was supposed to be his.


    "And Rockefe-"


    "I''ve shattered his mind; he''s barely cognizant at this point. As I said three years ago, the genjutsu has slowly turned him into a hollow shell," Chester revealed. Ricky leaned back, showing no hint of guilt whatsoever.


    It was a cutthroat world, and if anyone understood this, it was Rockefeller since after all, the man had made his wealth off the suffering of the common folk.


    ''If anything, you could call me a good guy.'' Ricky mused to himself as he got out of the car as he held up his hand, signaling for Jake to stay out of sight so Marshall couldn''t see him before Ricky then walked toward the farm, just as a car pulled up.


    "What are you doing here?" Gruff words sounded not from Rockefeller, but his personal guard who had the stature of a Rhino.


    Ricky glanced to the side and saw Rockefeller''s hollow eyes, slightly drooling at the mouth as one of the attendants had to dab at the corners of his lips, trying to keep him presentable.


    It was ironic that Rockefeller had been allowed to reach this state by his peers and his family, surrounded by those who had once supported him.


    But the cruel reality was that everyone was simply waiting for the old man to finally pass on.


    To his family, his loved ones, he was merely denying the inevitability of their inheritance.


    Though this man had sacrificed so much for them, they had ultimately discarded him, letting him rot away on the sidelines.


    ''Geez, Chester really did a number on him.'' Ricky thought, watching as Rhino suddenly wedged himself into his line of sight, blocking his view of Rockefeller.


    As mentioned before, Chester had to fracture Rockefeller''s mind just to control him with his suggestions, and to maintain that control, he had to break it entirely.


    It was a grueling process, and over the course of these three years, it had left Rockefeller essentially running on Chester''s suggestions, just waiting for death to claim him but even through all of that, Rhino and his guards still had a duty.


    "Can''t a guy pay his respects to such a prestigious man?" Ricky asked with a pretentious smile, spreading his arms wide and Rhino side-eyed the farm, then squinted, surveying the area with caution.


    Rhino gestured to the side, signaling armed men who emerged from the other trailing cars. Ricky tilted his head, but he wasn''t in the mood to deal with cannon fodder.


    A green gleam flashed in Ricky''s eyes, and then his sovereign aura exploded outward, pressing down on the minds of the men, overwhelming them with an oppressive force.


    The will of a sovereign pressed down on these mere soldiers, a crushing force from Ricky''s sheer presence overwhelming them.


    Ricky had already unleashed his power earlier and was now simply bored with the whole situation as he decided it was time to wrap up this entire debacle and move on.


    One by one, they collapsed to the ground, foaming at the mouth as their minds were completely shattered.


    Huff


    huff


    Huff


    Rhino fell to one knee, barely holding himself up with his hand as he felt the tsunami of green energy constantly flooding into him, the source of it all standing before him with a sleazy smile.


    Gazing behind him, he saw that everyone was completely incapacitated as his eyes suddenly burst wide, and with a surge of determination, he pushed himself to his feet.


    "AHHHHHHHHH!" Rhino roared, charging fiercely at Ricky with the intention to kill the man who threatened his employer.


    Holding out his hand, Ricky created a psychic barrier, and as Rhino slammed his horn into it, instead of relenting, Ricky pushed back.


    The barrier held firm, repelling the force with an unsettling ease while Ricky looked at Rhino struggling to even push it forward.


    ''This is nothing compared to Dracula,'' Ricky thought, his smile widening to its extreme as he closed his hand.


    A square barrier wrapped around Rhino, leaving him completely immobile and incarcerated.


    However, Ricky didn''t approach Rhino and instead, he walked directly past him, his focus now on the ground as he began inscribing runes with precise motions, all while casually grabbing a nearby gun.


    "W-What are you doing-"


    BANG


    Ricky shot one of the hired guns with executioner precision, the bullet piercing his unconscious head and killing him instantly.


    This man likely had a family, a past, a history that tied him to the world beneath his feet, but to Ricky, none of that mattered.


    He was indifferent to the life he''d just taken, that rotten feeling in his stomach never even making an appearance and Ricky didn''t linger on it.


    Despite Ricky''s occasional good deeds, his actions leading to significant changes, and the way some saw him in a favorable light, he wasn''t the hero they imagined.


    This man''s death wasn''t about justice or fate, it was a stepping stone for Ricky, a sacrifice made so he could gain something and for that single reason, this man''s life had been ruthlessly snuffed out.


    Without saying a word, Ricky dragged the body and tossed it into the circle, the lifeless form falling with a dull thud as the runes on the ground pulsed in response.


    "Get up." Ricky''s voice was cold and commanding, the words cutting through the air. A lime green light burst from his hand, wrapping around the man.


    His body convulsed violently as the mana swirled and twisted, seeping into his very being.


    The energy morphed him, changing his form into a grotesque, hideous state, the fabric of his being now contorted into something unrecognizable, a mere shell of what he once was.


    Ding


    (Uncommon Servant) Wight: A zombie with a faint glimmer of intelligence, capable of wielding weapons. Wights are stronger than regular zombies and have a chilling aura that saps the strength of those nearby.


    Rhino''s eyes widened in horror, his body trembling uncontrollably as he watched his former comrade, Tom, rise from the dead.


    The grotesque figure stood, weapons still clutched in its hands, but its movements were stiff and unnatural.


    "Check around the farm, killing all the workers on sight," Ricky commanded coldly, his voice unwavering as he turned to face the farm.


    The Wight, its movements jerky and unnatural, obeyed immediately, shuffling off in search of its victims.


    "So this is a modern farm, breathtaking~" Asterion chimed, his voice carefree and filled with amusement.


    He stood to the side, completely unfazed by the chaos unfolding around him as his arms were spread wide as he took in the view, as though he were admiring an art piece rather than the grim scene at hand.


    Sigh


    "Is he always like this?" Garfield asked, his tail swaying irritably in the air, clearly annoyed by Asterion''s boundless excitement.


    "I know it''s hard to believe, Garfield, but some people actually like to find joy in life instead of being such a cynic." Chester snapped back, causing Garfield to flinch, while Alexander boisterously laughed.


    "Yes, my furry friend, there''s nothing wrong with seeking excitement instead of focusing on the worst," Alexander proclaimed, popping his head out of Ricky''s shirt pocket and striking a mighty pose before looking towards the mutant struggling to the side.


    Sigh


    "Such a mighty foe he is, such a shame," Alexander sighed, thinking Ricky was going to kill Rhino and giving his condolences.


    Ricky formed a mental slide, raising the men before driving mental spikes through them, funneling their essence into his circle.


    Ding


    (Uncommon Servant) 11 x Wight: A zombie with a faint glimmer of intelligence, capable of wielding weapons. Wights are stronger than regular zombies and have a chilling aura that saps the strength of those nearby.


    The amount of mana it took to turn them into undead servants wasn''t nearly as much as it took for Chuck or Boney, but it was still more than what was required for the skeletons.


    "Go check the perimeter, kill anyone on sight, then return here for further orders," Ricky waved his hand, sending his new undead minions off as he then turned back to Rhino, who was desperately trying to break free from his confines.


    Walking closer, a dark presence emerged from the shadow as Shadow Broker loomed behind Ricky, his form barely visible in the dim light as Ricky bent down, his posture relaxed yet calculating.


    "Hey, Rhino, let''s talk shop," Ricky said with a smile, his voice smooth but laced with a dangerous edge.


    Rhino''s breath shook as he looked up at the boy who had become something far more formidable than he could have ever imagined.


    The memory of the young man from three years ago lingered in his mind, when his employer, Rockefeller, had first started to change, and now, Ricky was a force to be reckoned with, the power in his presence undeniable.


    Suddenly, Shadow Broker opened his briefcase with a smooth motion, and from it, the shadows swirled and congealed, forming a sleek black table.


    Shadow Broker carefully placed a set of papers, shimmering with a distinct energy, on top of it.


    The blankness of the pages only added to the ominous air, as if whatever was written within them held a weight far beyond their empty appearance.


    "W-What do you want?" Rhino stammered, his voice wavering under Ricky''s intense gaze. Ricky''s smile only widened as he leaned forward, his tone cool and confident.


    "For you to come and work for me." Ricky stated, propping his first deal with a calm authority.


    Without missing a beat, Shadow Broker ripped one of the sheets of paper in half and as he did, the air around them thickened, swirling with a radiant energy that coiled around the two of them, forming a visible barrier.


    The energy crackled with potential, an unseen force locking them into the moment as the tension was palpable, and it was clear that this wasn''t just a business propositio, this was a forced turning point.


    "What? I would-......" Rhino began to argue, his voice trailing off as an unexpected thought suddenly pierced his mind as the intrusion was sharp, alien, like a foreign whisper against the walls of his consciousness.


    ''Would it be such a bad idea to work for Ricky Luciano, the mutant advocate?'' A suspicion, buried deep beneath his subconscious and hidden under layers of professionalism, began to sprout.


    Ricky Luciano was slowly becoming a well-known figure in the mutant community, as more and more people had no choice but to acknowledge him.


    His face was becoming synonymous with the term ''mutant'' and whether they liked it or not, the world was beginning to take notice.


    "Would you at least hear me out?" Ricky asked, his tone smooth but unwavering and behind him, Shadow Broker ripped another piece of paper, the sound of it filling the tense silence.


    ''It wouldn''t hurt to hear him out,'' Rhino had another thought manifest, his mind weighing the possibility as he looked down for a moment, then nodded slowly.


    "I know you have an extensive fee for working with Rockefeller, but you and I both know he''s all but dead inside." Ricky said in a knowing tone, tilting his head as he observed Rhino.


    Rhino''s gaze shifted to the side, his mind caught in a web of conflicting thoughts as he couldn''t deny it.


    Rockefeller, once a powerful and sharp businessman, had slowly become a decrepit zombie, his mind deteriorating with each passing day.


    What was worse was that Rhino knew how these visits to his family home were clearly taking a toll, mental decay that Ricky could see as easily as Rhino himself.


    Yet, whenever anyone tried to intervene, he was met with orders to stand down and as a soldier, he did as he was told and followed.


    "I''ve been looking for people like me, like us, and I want you to get on board early so you can have first access to the future I''m going to build and I want you to be a part of a foundation I''m going to form." Ricky said in a confident tone, Rhino remaining silent as Shadow Broker ripped another stack of his paper.


    ''What kind of future is he going to build?''


    "You know it too, how they treat us, mock us, and I''m going to change all of it." Ricky raised his eyes, watching Rhino saddened eyes convulse downwards.


    "I''m going to make it so that no kid has to suffer just because they were born with an extra gene." Ricky revealed as his eyes formed into crescent moons, pressing into Rhino''s deepest insecurities and taking advantage of them, forcing him into silence for a long time after that.


    "I know Rockefeller paid you 2 mil a year, but I won''t pay that much. However, you''ll gain not only wealth but notoriety, instead of being tucked away in a dark corner like they probably do," Ricky said, reading him like a book as Rhino wasn''t even allowed in their residence, treated like a dirty mutant in their eyes.


    Until given his orders for dismissal from his post, the bodyguard stood in the weathering cold, rain, and against the hateful looks that always stormed around him.


    "This is my card. Give it to anyone in the Luciano territory, and they''ll make sure you get taken to me," Ricky said, slipping the card into Rhino''s shirt pocket as the man stared at him for a long moment, weighing his options.


    "I thought you would settle for getting the government off your back. Will you really fight for us?" Rhino asked genuinely, his voice heavy with the weight of his own struggles, knowing all too well how hard it was to grow up with two horns protruding from his face.


    How he was the butt of every joke, the target of every hateful look, and the freak who always stood out in a crowd.


    "I''m going to try, and that''s more than others can even say. I''m going to put myself out there, and if I fail, at least I can die knowing I didn''t run away when I had every opportunity to give our community a fighting chance." Ricky revealed but Rhino didn''t have to know that he didn''t really care, Shadow Broker ripping another piece of paper as he stood up.


    "Think about it. The Rockefellers only treat you like a thing, but I''d treat you like a man." Ricky adjusted his attire, walking toward the farm, leaving Rhino with a lot to reel from.


    Shadow Broker ripped one more piece of paper before closing his briefcase, hovering back to Ricky''s side.


    "It''s in the barn, the goods," Rhino suddenly called out, standing up but not facing Ricky as he walked back to the car.


    Ricky smiled, turning towards the farm as he walked into the barn to see three dead farmers with bullet holes in their bodies.


    "Come on Garfield, let''s explore!" Asterion grabbed Garfield and started running around the farm with glee, the cat hissing in protest, but the Minotaur didn''t care about the incessant scratching.


    "There''s got to be some sort of secret latch, right?" Ricky muttered to himself, scanning the barn. It appeared like a regular storage space, nothing out of the ordinary; just hay, tools, and crates.


    "Let''s spread out," Ricky said, his voice low but commanding as Chester and Alexander nodded, moving to search the barn.


    Chester began checking the loose planks and beams, his hands working quickly to pry them open, while Alexander sighed, clearly losing patience.


    The gerbil leaned his paw against one of the support beams, his eyes lazily scanning the surroundings.


    Click


    The entire barn suddenly shifted, the wooden floorboards creaking as if they were alive. Ricky''s head whipped around, his gaze locking onto Alexander, who had scurried back, clearly confused by the movement.


    "Alexander, you''re a genius!" Ricky exclaimed, his voice full of excitement and without missing a beat, he sprang into action, his hands expertly manipulating the support beams, testing them one by one.


    With each adjustment, a faint clicking sound echoed through the barn, the beams slowly locking into place.


    Click


    With a final, satisfying click, the last support beam locked into place, and the barn''s floor began to creak open, revealing a hidden staircase beneath.


    The wooden planks slowly shifted away, exposing the dimly lit steps leading down into the unknown.


    Ricky couldn''t help but smile, his eyes glinting with excitement as he reached down and scooped up Alexander, who had been rubbing his nose in pride.


    "Yes, praise me!" Alexander declared arrogantly, leaning down from Ricky''s shoulders with a smug grin.


    His posture was exaggerated, as though he were a king demanding his due recognition and Chester rolled his eyes from behind, shaking his head in disbelief.


    "Mother Mary''s nipples!" Ricky exclaimed, his eyes wide with astonishment as they reached a clearing, revealing an underground storage room stacked high with wealth.


    "Rockefeller was only able to move 40 million out of 53 million, but it should be enough," Chester revealed, as Ricky walked forward, taking in the sight around him.


    The warehouse was filled with riches, from silver and gold to carefully wrapped art pieces, and mountains of cash stacked high.


    Ricky spent nearly twenty minutes surveying the area, his eyes scanning the wealth in front of him before finally sitting down in front of it all again.


    In total, these were the contents of Rockefeller''s warehouse:


    Cash Reserves - $10 Million


    U.S. Dollars: Bundles of high-denomination bills neatly stacked in crates. The notes are new, crisp, and well-preserved, amounting to $6 million.


    Foreign Currencies: Another $4 million converted into British Pounds, French Francs, and Swiss Francs, offering stability and international flexibility.


    Gold - $10 Million


    Gold Bars: Approximately 12.5 kg each, the gold bars are stamped with the weight, purity (99.9% fine gold), and a serial number. These bars, worth $10 million, are stored in secure, lead-lined crates to avoid detection by metal detectors.


    Silver Reserves - $7 Million


    Silver Bars: Large, 1000 oz. silver bars, each stamped with purity and weight, totaling $5 million. These are kept in heavy-duty, reinforced wooden crates.


    Silver Coins: Pre-1930 U.S. silver dollars, along with international coins like the Mexican Peso and the Spanish Peseta, valued at $2 million. They are stored in sacks, ready for easy transport or trade.


    Bonds and Securities - $4 Million


    Government Bonds: U.S. Treasury Bonds and a few British War Bonds totaling $2.5 million. These are kept in a locked, fireproof filing cabinet.


    Corporate Bonds: High-grade bonds from established companies like General Electric and Standard Oil, worth $1.5 million. These are stored alongside the government bonds.


    Jewelry and Precious Gems - $3 Million


    Diamonds and Other Gems: Loose diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies, individually appraised and stored in small velvet pouches. These gems are worth $2 million and are kept in a concealed safe within the warehouse.


    High-Value Jewelry: Vintage jewelry pieces, including gold necklaces, rings, and bracelets adorned with precious stones, valued at $1 million.


    Art and Antiques - $8 Million


    Paintings and Sculptures: A collection of valuable art pieces from well-known artists, carefully wrapped and stored in custom-made crates. These items represent about $500,000 of the total.


    Antique Furniture and Rare Books: Select pieces of European antique furniture and rare first editions of classic books, worth another $500,000.


    Sniff


    "I-It''s just so beautiful," Ricky murmured, his voice thick with emotion as he gazed at the amassed wealth as a proud smile spread across his face, as if on the verge of tears but Chester, however, rolled his eyes, unimpressed by the display.


    "Come on Alexander, let''s give him a moment."


    2 hours later,


    It took Ricky longer than expected to fill up his storage room with the haul, as he couldn''t help but relish in the fruits of his labor, savoring the sight of 40 million in wealth.


    During this time, he mentally commanded his newly raised wights to gather up the workers they had killed and transport their bodies to the center for conversion into undead.


    What he didn''t expect, however, was that Rhino was still waiting outside as the heavy footsteps approached, and Rhino finally walked up to Ricky.


    "If I end up working for you, what will I be; just a tool or a guard?" Rhino''s voice dripped with venom as he demanded an answer and Ricky, unfazed, shrugged casually.


    "A comrade, someone I can trust with my back." Ricky replied, meeting Rhino''s gaze with unwavering confidence.


    Rhino was far too powerful to be reduced to a mere tool, and Ricky knew that with certainty.


    The weight of the decision seemed to settle in Rhino''s chest as he stood there, silent for a moment, lost in thought.


    Finally, he turned away, his footsteps heavy as he made his way back to the car and moments later, the car roared to life and drove off, leaving Ricky alone with his plans.


    If Rockefeller''s body were to disappear, it would create a significant problem and while Ricky toyed with the idea of turning the hateful old man into an undead servant, he quickly dismissed it as he didn''t want to deal with the potential complications.


    It would be far simpler to eliminate any annoying disturbances entirely, clearing the path for his own ambitions without the burden of dealing with the old man''s persistent presence.


    "Is that really a good idea?" Chester asked, flying up to perch on Ricky''s shoulder. Ricky shrugged, his gaze lingering on the bodies stacked before him.


    "We''ll see. But sometimes, you need to gamble to make it big," he replied, his voice calm yet tinged with the thrill of the unknown.


    His attention shifted back to the fourteen lifeless farmers, their bodies lying like discarded pawns in the game Ricky was playing.


    "Get up."


    Ding


    (Common Undead Servant) 14 x Shambler: Slow-moving, mindless zombies. They attack in hordes and rely on sheer numbers to overwhelm their victims. Easily defeated individually, but dangerous in large groups.


    "Now, all of you, get into the storage space and don''t touch my stuff." Ricky commanded, his tone firm as he opened the storage space.


    The wights and shamblers shuffled forward, their eyes glazed and unseeing, as they entered the space.


    Ricky watched them for a moment, ensuring they weren''t touching any of his stuff, before closing the portal behind them.


    "Alright, now who''s ready for Texas?"


    Author''s Note: What are we thinking about the first introduction of the stands power, I''ve never written something like this before and I wanted to know if it flowed right? Also, I haven''t really replied to commetns but I have seen them since I''ve been studying like f*cking crazy so I''ll get to them this weekend. I have put a auxilary chap with his kids, played marvel rivals which is crazy fun, and why is everyone calling me Greg? Leave your thoughts.

 Chapter 123 - 119: A Texan Reunion

    Chapter 123: Chapter 119: A Texan Reunion


    2 days later,


    Arriving in El paso,


    "So, this is Texas." Asterion seemingly asked, surveying the stark desert landscape that seemed to bleed red, white, and blue.


    SPLAT


    The red of Texas showed itself to Asterion first as a rotten tomato splattered against the glass, its mushy remnants streaking across his view.


    He caught a glimpse of the vibrant red pulp, a stark contrast to the drab surroundings, as Ricky''s laughter rang out, echoing his delight at the chaotic scene unfolding around them.


    "GET OUT OF HERE!" Shouted a voice from outside, hateful to its core.


    "WE DON''T WANT YOUR KIND HERE!" Another voice chimed in, only reaching a new level upon their colleagues'' tone.


    "In all its hateful glory, Asterion." Ricky said, lifting his half-empty bottle of hell wine, surrounded by three more empty bottles at his feet.


    "They''re a very vocal bunch," Chester remarked dryly, and Ricky pointed at a buck-toothed man brandishing a sign that read ''We Hate Mutants'' while laughing heartily at the absurdity.


    But when Ricky caught sight of his welcoming banner of hate, he couldn''t help but laugh even harder, the absurdity of the moment fuelled his buzzed amusement.


    "How is this funny?" Asterion asked genuinely, glancing back at his familiars, who merely shrugged, their expressions a mix of confusion and bemusement.


    "Oh, come on, this is hilarious!" Ricky exclaimed, slightly tipsy, letting out a burp as he pointed at the gathering crowd.


    "A bunch of southern hillbillies hating me just for existing? It''s comedic gold!" Ricky''s bizarre sense of humor shone through, a testament to his irreverent spirit.


    "And besides, what are they going to do, slur me to death-"


    "FCKING CNT ASS B*TCH MUTANT, GET OUT OF HERE!" An elderly woman cussed out word after word as if trying to correct Ricky.


    "If I''m being honest, you get an A for effort." Ricky chuckled out, clinking his wine bottle against the car door as she slammed her fist against it.


    Before he knew it, the crowd closed in around them, their voices rising in a cacophony of insults and rage.


    BAM


    BAM


    "Woah, they really hate me." Ricky scanned the scene, noticing Garfield retreating behind Chester, who shot a fierce glare at the encroaching crowd.


    Meanwhile, Alexander stood firm, exuding an air of confidence as he adjusted his attire, a silent defiance against the hostile gathering.


    "Uh, Ricky, we have a problem." Asterion said, tugging at his sleeve and pointing forward.


    Ricky turned just in time to see Jake and Marshall''s car being surrounded, the crowd getting more agitated, threatening to flip it onto its side.


    It began rocking side to side as Jake and Marshall were swept away, their muffled shouts for Ricky barely audible.


    Sigh


    "Fine," Ricky said, his tone sharp as he casually formed a shimmering field around the car, causing the onlookers to gasp and instinctively back away.


    "HE''S USING HIS DEMON POWERS! QUICK, PRAY TO OUR LORD AND SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST!" one of the men roared, prompting everyone around him to clasp their hands together in fervent prayer.


    "I''m literally an honorary bishop of the Vatican!" Ricky shouted, rolling down his window to address the crowd surrounding him.


    "Jesus Christ died for American sins, not no Europeans!" an old woman exclaimed, pointing a shaky finger at Ricky as he raised an eyebrow, baffled by her declaration.


    Snort


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky burst into uncontrollable laughter, slapping the side of the car as he covered his face.


    "How are you all real people?!" Ricky exclaimed, pointing at the crowd, shaking his head at their fervent devotion to someone he doubted had even existed.


    Even as an honorary bishop, Ricky had never believed in God to this extent but it was surreal to witness the American version of faith, so wildly different from the restrained reverence he had come to see at the Vatican.


    "Aye, boy, you can''t be using no powers in my town." The sheriff''s gruff voice rang out, commanding attention.


    The crowd''s shouts dwindled, parting like the Red Sea as he strode forward, flanked by his deputies.


    "Sorry, I just got a little excited about my warm welcome," Ricky said, spreading his hands wide in exaggerated sarcasm as the sheriff''s brows furrowed, his expression darkening with irritation.


    "I don''t take kindly to sarcasm-"


    "And I don''t take kindly to people who can''t keep a full set of teeth, but we all have to make do with our surroundings." Ricky pointed to the nearest person missing a tooth, who quickly covered their mouth.


    "Seriously, man, invest in a toothbrush." Ricky said, pointing at the guy, who ducked his head in shame as his buddies patted him on the back to comfort him.


    "That''s enough, get on your merry way," Sheriff Migilly ordered in a thick southern accent, pointing away from the crowd as Ricky gave him a casual wave, brushing him off.


    "I will, but only since you asked so nicely," Ricky replied, then slid into the car as Chester shot him a plain look.


    "Is it wise to antagonize the police force?" Chester asked, raising an eyebrow, while Alexander scoffed and scurried onto Ricky''s shoulder.


    "Probably not, but this hell wine really just brings it out of me." Ricky replied, glancing down at the bottle as he took another swig, the drink making him feel even more confrontational.


    "Do not be afraid to share," Alexander said, holding out a small cup causing Ricky to chuckle, then pouring a tiny drop of the wine into it.


    "Our trial is at the end of the week, we need to find lodging and-" Chester started preparing an agenda, trying to get everything squared away only to be interrupted by Garfield''s loud sigh.


    Sigh


    "Can''t you read the car, Chester? Stop preparing and simply go with the flow." Garfield said lazily, sprawled out across the seat and Ricky nodded his head in agreement.


    "Good idea, Garfield, good idea," Ricky said, popping the seat back while Asterion drove through the town, his eyes scanning the scenery painted in the red hues of Ricky''s slander.


    "Do you not care about this trail in the least? I put a lot of time into these briefings," Chester said, side-eyeing Garfield, who was lazily swaying his tail in the air and looking toward Ricky, getting comfortable.


    "I know you did, Chester, and I appreciate you for that," Ricky said, patting Chester''s head, though he dodged the gesture.


    "But you need to relax, it''ll work out." Ricky sighed, mimicking Garfield''s earlier words as the crow merely looked away.


    "Fine, if you think that merely sitting around and letting things fall into place will work, then I suppose we should follow your lead," Chester said, obviously being facetious but Ricky just smiled at him, unbothered.


    "Wouldn''t want it any other way."


    Asterion drove them to the nearest hotel, but another problem soon arose, much like Chester anticipated as they were denied service almost instantaneously.


    Then, as if on cue, Chester shot Ricky a look, but the man continued his trek, only to be hit with a wave of deja vu with every single denial.


    It quickly escalated until they had driven through every town in the city, only to face rejection at each stop.


    Two hours later, Ricky lay on top of the car, staring up at the sky, while Marshall and Jake took turns trying to make calls from the nearby phone booth.


    "What is this?!" Asterion yelled from the side, pointing at a carcass and fascinated by it.


    "Carcass, you can drink it if you crack it open!" Ricky yelled back, drunk, as he poured the contents into a little bowl for Alexander and even Garfield, who were lounging at the side.


    "YOU ARE PULLING THE LEG!" Asterion shouted from the side with a broken idiom, gasping almost while observing this fascinating plant.


    "D-Do think other animals can talk?" Garfield drunkenly asked the two of them, hiccuping soon after.


    "Like human talk or just talk talk?" Ricky asked, turning to the drunken cat who massaged his head.


    "They have to, right?" Alexander replied in a slurred tone, looking up and wiping his mouth as both of them nodded in agreement.


    "YOU WERE NOT PULLING THE LEG!" Asterion excitedly yelled from the side, his mouth covered in cactus pricks with his face slobbered in the juice.


    SIGH


    Chester sighed from the side, covering his face with his wing, clearly embarrassed to be around them.


    "Good news! I called one of my friends, and he said we can use his brother-in-law''s cousin''s house!" Marshall excitedly yelled at them, and Ricky held up a thumbs-up in response.


    "Alright, enough hell wine, I want to save it for later." Ricky said, prying a full bottle away from Garfield, who scratched at it in protest.


    "Come on, I want to get situated and get drunk off all their supplies."


    5 minutes later,


    "What are they, Mormons?" Ricky asked, glancing away from the cabinet while the others got settled.


    They had arrived at the edge of town, to a modest two-story house that was a little run-down but worked as lodging nonetheless.


    "How do they not have a drop of liquor?" Ricky asked in a baffled tone, his buzz fading as Marshall pulled out a jar of juice.


    Sniff


    "I guess they have plum juice." Marshall''s face squeezed, the smell shrinking his expression as Ricky side-eyed him.


    "Fermented?" Ricky asked, watching as Marshall dipped his finger into the jar and gave it a small taste test before shaking his head.


    "Dammit, I''ll be back-"


    "Woah, woah, woah, what do you think you''re doing?" Jake laughed, thinking Ricky was joking as he stopped him from putting on his coat.


    "Going to get a drink and maybe some snacks-"


    "In a city that absolutely loathes you?" Jake finished the sentence as Ricky paused, thinking about it for a moment.


    "Yes." Ricky promptly nodded his head while confirming his words with one of his own, walking past Jake, who sighed in resignation.


    SIGH


    "Just don''t get into a fight-"


    "Got it!" Ricky yelled out the door, Jake facepalming as Marshall walked next to him with the weirdly tasting plum juice.


    "He''s gonna get in trouble, isn''t he?" Marshall asked Jake, who took out a cigarette and lit it with an annoyed expression.


    "That guy is just a vacuum for it."


    10 minutes later,


    "Come on, just close your eyes and take my money!" Ricky yelled through the glass at the liquor shop that had refused service to him.


    "WE DON''T SELL TO YOUR-"


    "KIND, I KNOW, BUT I''M ABOUT TO LOSE MY BUZZ AND IT''S MORE IMPORTANT TO ME THAN YOUR VALUES!" Ricky yelled back, clearly uncaring for the hate littering his eyes as the store owner closed the curtain prompting a sigh out of Ricky.


    "Dammit, that''s like the eighth one-"


    "It looks like you need a hand, tiger~" A slight purr resonated behind him. Ricky, familiar with that tone, turned around to find a beautiful blonde standing there.


    However, this blonde was different; familiar, almost, in the way she carried herself, as if she''d slipped out of his grasp years ago.


    A subtle recognition flickered in Ricky''s mind as his sleazy smile slowly faded, replaced by a surprised yet cheesy grin.


    "If it isn''t my wife," Ricky said, spreading out his arms as the beautiful blonde''s eyes rolled into a deep orange before she looked directly at him, a knowing smirk playing at the corners of her lips.


    "Hello, Ricky," Raven smiled at him, walking over and attempting to give him a cordial hug.


    However, Ricky held her tight, his arms wrapping around her as if he had no intention of letting go.


    "God, you smell so good," Ricky playfully joked, his voice dripping with mock admiration as Raven patted his back before they broke the hug, her eyes narrowing slightly in amusement.


    "It''s good to see you too, Ricky." Raven tried to be formal but couldn''t help the laughter that flowed from her mouth, even though it wasn''t even that funny to begin with.


    The sound was genuine, as if his presence stirred something in her from long ago, despite the situation.


    "So, what spot were you thinking?" Ricky asked, looking at Raven as she was about to open her mouth as she tilted her head slightly, considering her answer before speaking.


    "Spot?" Raven asked, utterly confused as it showed on her face when she looked at Ricky''s confident smile.


    "Of course, for our date," Ricky revealed, a smirk tugging at his lips. Raven stood there for a moment, processing the words, before the realization sparkled in her eyes.


    She quickly looked away, unable to contain her laughter as it bubbled out, a mix of surprise and amusement.


    "Don''t tell me that you weren''t kidding back then-"


    "You owe me, you said three favors, and I asked for a date," Ricky pointed out, a playful glint in his eyes as Raven patted his chest, a smirk tugging at her lips.


    "Tiger, I came here to stop you from the mess you''re about to make-"


    "Ugh, don''t tell me you''re still harping on the future stuff." Ricky tilted his head, his expression being expressed by an exaggerated sigh causing Raven to look down, a sad smile crossing her lips as she shrugged slightly.


    "It''s not that simple, Ricky."


    "But it can be, things are only hard if you make it hard," Ricky said with a sleazy smile, hinting his true intentions through his tone.


    Raven immediately understood what he did there, and she scoffed, rolling her eyes and Ricky, unable to hold it in, started laughing at her reaction.


    "Well, you can''t stop me, unless you somehow manage to wine and dine it out of me." Ricky backed away, shrugging nonchalantly, shamelessly forcing her hand with a playful grin.


    "Tiger, this isn''t some simply thing, you''re going against America''s way of life and-"


    "And I''ll only stop if you convince me, over a candlelit dinner, maybe under the moonlight?" Ricky said, grabbing Raven''s hand softly and twirling her.


    Raven didn''t know why but she couldn''t stop playfully laughing, the sound light and carefree, before looking up at him.


    As he pulled her close, they suddenly started swaying back and forth, the rhythm of the moment taking over them both.


    "Fine, I''ll take you to dinner, but it''s to tell you the mistake you''re making." Raven warned Ricky who held up his hands in mock surrender.


    "Got it, you can tell me all about my mistakes and how you plan to fix my aching heart that has longed to see you again." Ricky said, his voice dripping with playful sarcasm as he held her hand gently, and Raven sighed, giving in since she knew if she didn''t relent, he''d only get more boisterous.


    "So, where are we going if the entire city hates my guts-"


    "I know a guy," Raven said with a side-eye, a mischievous smile tugging at her lips as she flicked her blonde hair, causing Ricky to tilt his head, intrigued.


    "In El Paso, your kidding?"


    "Nope."


    10 minutes later,


    "You really weren''t kidding," Ricky said, sipping from his glass of wine as he gazed out at the setting sun, its light casting a luminescent glow over the desert.


    "Ricky, focus." Raven''s voice pulled him back as he turned to face her, his eyes lingering on the gorgeous woman, her body bathed in the golden hue of the fading sunlight.


    "How can I focus when I''m reminiscing about your real appearance?" Ricky smiled, his gaze lingering on her but his eyes desiring his real body and not some facade, some disguise.


    Raven leaned back, crossing her arms and looking around before a subtle shift occurred as the beautiful blonde slowly transformed, revealing the even more captivating appearance of Raven.


    "Better."


    "So much better," Ricky exaggerated, his grin widening as Raven scoffed, but as she met his gaze, she noticed the warmth reflected in his green eyes.


    "You really like me better this way, don''t you?" Raven asked, reaching for her glass, a smirk tugging at her lips as she recalled Ricky''s reaction when he first saw her, how he was completely baffled by her beauty, instead of repulsed by it.


    "I just can''t explain it." Ricky said, his voice softening, his pause only being highlighted by his smile slowly widening.


    "I mean, I''ll try to when our kids ask, but whenever I look at you, I''m at a loss for words to describe what I feel." Ricky''s smooth words flowed out like the wine poured into his glass, finding it impossible to stop himself from endlessly flattering the beautiful creature before him.


    There was something about Raven that made Ricky''s heart race in a way he couldn''t explain. Though he considered himself a connoisseur of women, she pushed him into a newfound obsession, one that seemed to awaken from some forgotten corner of his past life.


    But unlike before, when he would have run away, Ricky now found himself eager to explore this feeling, to dig deeper into it but Raven, on the other hand, couldn''t stop laughing at his blunt attraction.


    He had said it in such a way that it seemed like a joke, but when she looked into his eyes, she saw how sincere his words truly were.


    "Alright, let''s get down to business." Raven''s demeanor suddenly shifted to something colder, but Ricky only bit his lip, unfazed.


    "Even when she''s so cold, it turns me on," Ricky thought while biting his lip, eye f*cking her so blatantly that Raven had to force herself from laughing, hardening her expression.


    "First, I want to say that I truly admire the efforts you''re putting yourself through for our kind, I truly do." Raven said, her tone genuine as she couldn''t help but admire Ricky for going to such lengths, not only in the Vatican but also by putting himself in America''s crosshairs to benefit his people.


    Raven didn''t know anything about Ricky wanting to be a symbol; she simply thought he was doing the same thing that many before him had tried, fighting for his people in the way he thought best.


    "But you''re going to get yourself killed, not to mention the future-"


    "Ugh, you''re still on that?" Ricky sighed, leaning back as he briefly remembered her obsession with the future.


    "Ricky, the future is very tangible as it is. If we don''t prepare, then events we can''t foresee will happen," Raven said slowly, her words deliberate as Ricky stared at her with a blank expression.


    "So if I keep doing what I''m doing, then you''ll never know what will happen in the future to protect it?" Ricky asked, his tone skeptical causing Raven to smile and nod, as if he was finally starting to get it.


    ''It''s like talking to that bald magician except Raven''s f*cking smoking hot.''


    "Then does that mean you''ll just have to live life knowing that anything can happen, like the rest of us?" Ricky laughed, using the same words he had once said to the Ancient One, spreading out his arms dramatically as Raven''s eyebrow twitched in response.


    "That is not fair, Ricky," Raven wanted to refute, but she immediately recognized the flaw in her logic, causing the words to spiral out of her control.


    "Not fair?" Ricky asked with a sarcastic laugh, wiping his mouth before shaking his head.


    "What''s not fair is knowing a future that''s not even certain and expecting everyone to just go along with a destiny that''s not even set in stone," Ricky said, setting down his glass and leaning forward, taking control of the conversation.


    "Ricky I''ve tried everything, I''ve been historical figures, I''ve built up governments, I''ve-"


    "Failed?" Ricky''s words struck a nerve, and Raven narrowed her eyes.


    "Excuse me?" Raven''s voice was laced with frustration, her expression shifting to one of barely contained anger, as if she might stab him at any moment.


    "You want to know what I think? I think you''re so scared of failing that you''ve lost all hope of succeeding." Ricky, slightly drunk, pointed at Raven before glancing at his wine and then back at her.


    Raven was immediately taken aback by his words as she opened her mouth to respond but instead laughed, leaning back and shaking her head.


    "And what about you? I''ve looked into you, Ricky, and you''re not exactly someone built for success." Raven shot back, feeling the need to retaliate.


    "Two of your childhood friends died because of Xarus, another became a drug addict, and the last was exiled from his home for being a mutant." Raven''s words were sharp, the result of the investigation she''d conducted after they parted ways.


    Her curiosity about him had gotten the better of her. When she returned to her dwelling, she delved into researching his past but upon arriving in New York, she discovered that he had been exiled and cast away.


    "I know that I''ve failed a lot, probably seven times more than I''ve actually succeeded." Ricky swirled the wine in his glass before downing it in one gulp.


    "But unlike you, I chose to stop running, to stop giving up, and to push forward. And if it kills me, at least I can say I didn''t die a coward." Ricky said, his voice firm yet tinged with frustration.


    But when he looked up at Raven, he noticed a misunderstanding taking root as she thought the resentment laced in his words was directed at her, and her expression shifted to one of clear hurt.


    Unaware of her misinterpretation, Ricky instinctively repeated the mantra he''d shared with anyone who asked him that similar question.


    "I-I didn''t mean that you''re a coward, I meant myself," Ricky actually stuttered, surprising even himself which made Raven raise a brow, her expression shifting to one of cautious curiosity.


    "How were you a coward?" Raven asked, genuinely curious as she wanted to know if he was simply trying to recover from his slip-up or if he truly meant it.


    "Well, I wasn''t exiled, I just ran away," Ricky admitted, revealing the truth and Raven''s expression softened at his words, his truth.


    "The story goes that I was exiled, and it really gives a touch of flair to it, making the story more impactful when I eventually returned, but it''s just something my pops made up to hide the real truth." Ricky sighed, pausing for a while, since this was a touchy subject for him.


    Ricky hadn''t admitted this to anyone outside his circle, but he really wanted to get into Raven''s pants and have her open heart to him so that later, he could open her legs.


    "Back then, when the other families found out I was a mutant, instead of wanting to kick me out, the Luciano family actually rallied behind me," Ricky explained, slicking his hand through his hair and resting his elbow on the table.


    "My pops came to me and asked me to get on board, but I just left." Ricky looked down, the weight of the confession settling in before laughing.


    Realizing he was telling Raven, someone he''d only just met twice, one of his biggest regrets.


    "It''s honestly one of my biggest regrets, but I wouldn''t have become who I am today with my past mistakes." Ricky continued, looking up at Raven, who was a little taken aback at how out of character he was right now.


    "Listen, Raven, you''re a beautiful soul, and although I think I''m your long-lost soulmate, I''m sorry, but I''m not going to sacrifice my success for a future that might not happen." Ricky let out another egregious sigh, thinking the door he wanted to ram into repeatedly was closing which made him pour more wine into his glass.


    "How do you know it won''t happen, Destiny''s predictions are almost always spot on-"


    "Because you don''t know who I am, Raven, and I''m going to be the centerpiece of this era, whether it wants me or not." Ricky revealed, sharing one of his biggest ambitions as Raven was at a lost for words


    "And besides, how could you possibly know the future if you didn''t know that we would get married in the future." Ricky tipped his wine glass towards her, still shamelessly flirting with her as Raven laughed out.


    "Bold words for a young man." Raven smiled, leaning in as it was Ricky''s turn to laugh this time.


    "Well, people have called revolutionaries idiots, so I don''t think I''m too far off," Ricky boastfully proclaimed, pointing his finger into the sky and striking a cheesy pose, all to make Raven laugh to which, thankfully, she was doing right now.


    "Also, sorry about telling you off earlier. I''m sure that future you want is probably for the better," Ricky offered, extending an olive branch but Raven simply looked down, her expression unreadable.


    "You know, I think what makes me so infatuated with those predicted futures is the promise of a better tomorrow." Raven said, grabbing the glass next to her as her smile slowly faded.


    "Living for so long, you tend to see the worst in life rather than all its beauty, and when you look towards a better future, it acts as a way of coping," Raven said, laughing softly since now that she said it out loud, it sounded really stupid to her.


    In all honesty, Raven had prevented numerous disasters from befalling mankind, but no one would ever know about it but it all felt meaningless if nothing ever got better.


    I think, deep down, this act of trying to help mutants stemmed from the fact that Raven never had a childhood.


    From the moment she was born, she was labeled a demon because of her blue skin.


    Forced to hide in the shadows, she spent her life yearning for the warmth she had never known, a desire that eventually spread to mutant kind.


    But it was from that suffering, growing up in such an isolated environment, littered only with coldness and hate, that Raven simply didn''t want that to ever happen to another mutant child.


    It was then, as the wine flowed down her throat and simmered into her being, that the wall she always put up slowly began to break down, allowing a pleasant conversation to form between them.


    It wasn''t about politics, it wasn''t about destinies; it was about getting to know each other, as wine bottles started to litter the table.


    "Don''t you ever settle down or relax? Like, do you ever have brief stints where you live a life without some set goal?" Ricky genuinely asked, looking at her like she was an encyclopedia of knowledge who had lived countless identities and lives.


    "Ricky, I was Sherlock Holmes," Raven, slightly buzzed, confessed, mentioning one of her personas, doubting he would believe her.


    "You''re kidding!?" Ricky gawked, spilling his wine onto his shirt as Raven laughed at his reaction before nodding.


    "It''s true, and Jack the Ripper? Not even human, but actually a number of parasitic creatures that hailed from the Dark Dimension." Raven confessed to Ricky who was baffled beyond belief, leaning back in his chair as he tried to process what she had just said.


    "Huh, guess you learn something new every day," Ricky said, repouring his glass before Raven snatched it from his hand.


    "Your turn. How did you convince the Vatican to recognize mutants?" Raven asked, baffled in her own right, knowing how stubborn the church was.


    It was an achievement in itself, in her eyes, that Ricky had not only managed to get the Vatican to recognize mutants but also secure an honorary position, a recognition they never gave out to anyone before.


    "Eh, why not," Ricky said, leaning in as he prepared to reveal himself as the Black Knight after getting the government to stand down.


    "But you can''t tell anyone, promise?" Ricky held out his pinky finger, and Raven smiled, wrapping her pinky around his as he pulled her close.


    "Promise."


    "I''m the Black Knight," Ricky confessed, revealing his secret. Raven''s eyes bulged out of her sockets.


    "Y-You''re the Black Knight?" Raven whispered in a yelling tone, quickly covering his mouth before looking around nervously.


    "You killed Dracula?!" Raven screeched in a whisper, already having heard the news. Ricky nodded.


    "Pretty cool, right?" he said, taking her hand off his mouth, holding it, and gently setting it to the side but keeping it locked with his as Raven sighed, still processing the revelation.


    Sigh


    "I have to say, it is pretty cool." Raven sighed out, only for a chuckle to follow, using her other hand to lean her head on while staring at Ricky.


    "Your turn, but I want to ask a question," Ricky said, gently massaging her smooth blue forehead as the alcohol brewed a tonic of lust between them.


    Raven''s Favorability: 43


    ''Wow, so low.'' Ricky thought, thinking he was doing a good job, only to see the low favorability in her expression.


    "Tell me why you never settled down, to take maybe a little time to relax," Ricky asked with a toothy smile. Raven paused, thinking about it.


    "I guess-............I guess I just never found the right time." Raven admitted as she didn''t know why, but she felt oddly comfortable opening up to Ricky, who nodded in understanding.


    Ricky''s eyes then gazed into Raven''s, and she suddenly found herself mesmerized by them before she quickly turned her head down, a smile tugging at the corner of her lips.


    "You''re dangerous," Raven said, looking up slightly with a smirk. Ricky laughed.


    "I''ve been told." Ricky agreed, leaning in as his thumb slowly traced along her gorgeous skin.


    "But if anyone is dangerous, it''s the woman who I can''t help but tell how infatuated I am with her." Ricky confessed, but Raven only looked to the side, her smile fading slightly.


    "You''re just all talk-" Raven tried to say, only for Ricky to suddenly interrupt her.


    "I''m not, I mean it." Ricky''s voice carried a sincerity that seemed to form a connection, and Raven, caught off guard, was left feeling really confused.


    It was as if every aspect of Ricky''s being was trying to ensnare her, and the more she fought it, the more curious she became as to why she felt this way.


    "Ricky, we''ve met twice and-"


    "And now I''m never letting you go," Ricky laughed, playfully squeezing her hand. She took a sip from her glass, using it to hide the slight red tint finally forming on her cheeks.


    "How about we make a deal, a wager?" Ricky offered, and Raven raised an eyebrow, setting her glass back down, pausing for a moment but giving into whatever whim this was.


    "I''m listening."


    "You stay here, in Texas, until the case ends," Ricky suddenly proclaimed and Raven laughed, clearly amused by the suggestion.


    "That''s not how a deal works." Raven resumed her position, leaning her head on her free hand while looking towards Ricky with a smile.


    "I know, but here''s the thing; you stay here and take a break, but do not intervene in the proceedings. And if I win, you come back to New York with me." Ricky showed his intentions through his words as Raven smiled in return, charmed by his foolish confidence.


    "And what if you fail?" Raven asked, clearly amused by this deal and wondering what would happen if he ended up losing.


    "If I fail, then I''ll adhere to whatever future you want and stop trying to mess with it," Ricky offered, ensnaring Raven in a deal that was clearly beneficial to her.


    In Destiny''s diaries, there was never a groundbreaking civil case for mutants, and if Ricky actually managed to win, it would be a huge leap for mutant equality, since her diaries weren''t always accurate.


    But if he lost, Raven could essentially put a leash around Ricky, winning either way, but that was the wine talking at this point.


    "Then what will I do to preoccupy myself?" Raven playfully leaned forward, a mischievous glint in her eyes, giving Ricky the perfect opening and he couldn''t resist.


    "Isn''t it obvious? You''ll be too busy being occupied with me." Ricky''s voice was soft, laden with intent as he leaned in, closing the distance, and their lips finally met.


    It was electric, and they both felt it, as if the world stood still for them, and nothing else mattered in that moment.


    It was passionate but messy, vigorous yet smooth, every desire, every longing, fulfilled in the touch of one another as they savored the taste, the connection before slowly breaking apart.


    Their gazes locked, intense and unyielding, for what felt like an eternity as the air between them was charged, thick with the heady heat of their desire, and as they stood, it was clear that both of them were boiling with pheromones, the magnetic pull undeniable.


    "Do you-"


    "Yeah," Raven huffed out, biting her lip as conflicting thoughts swirled in her mind.


    Raven knew it was a bad idea, but it felt too good, too right, to shut herself off from it now.


    "Your place or mine-"


    "Mine." Raven''s voice was low, filled with a possessive hunger as she grabbed Ricky and hurriedly led him toward the luxurious house she was staying at, the tension between them palpable with every step.


    Turning around as they entered, Ricky scooped her up effortlessly, kicking the door closed behind him.


    Raven immediately hopped into his embrace, wrapping her legs around his waist as he carried her up the stairs, their lips locking once more in a heated, unrelenting kiss.


    They didn''t even know what had taken over them, but they were already swept away by the current of their shared lust.


    Every touch, every kiss felt like it was fated, as if they were powerless against the overwhelming desire pulling them deeper into the moment.


    BAM


    Ricky kicked the bedroom door open, sending it crashing against the wall as he shoved Raven onto the bed, his breath ragged as she quickly began unbuckling his pants.


    As she freed him, his arousal was already evident as his cock flopped before her gaze which shrunk as it wholly occupied it.


    But before she could fully process it, Ricky leaned down, his chest brushing against hers as he closed the distance between them.


    "So, is it a deal?" Ricky asked playfully, planting a tender kiss on her neck but before he could pull away, Raven grabbed his face, bringing him to her lips with a swift, intense motion.


    "Deal."

 Chapter 124 - 120: Smurf Fever (R18)

    Chapter 124: Chapter 120: Smurf Fever (R18)


    ''Wet to the touch.''


    "Ha~" Raven moaned out, exasperated at how his fingers slinked into her folds and her being flushed out.


    His middle and ring fingers slowly plunged into her, slipping into the wet and heat riddled warmth of her folds, drawing out a soft, desperate moan with every gesture that urged her to cum.


    His body pressed down against hers, pinning her as she squirmed beneath the weight of his touch.


    But as her back hit the bed, Raven''s hand slithered up his neck, fingers tangled in his slicked-back hair before she yanked a fistful of it, pulling his head back.


    Ricky, whose lips were moments from brushing against her smooth lapis skin, found himself abruptly yanked forward, his mouth crashing into hers in a wild, hungry kiss.


    As if determined not to be outdone, Raven''s other hand slid down, her fingers wrapping around his throbbing length, stroking it with a slow, deliberate tenderness, the contrast of her soft touch against the hardness of him driving him wild.


    Both their bodies twitched under the weight of each other''s hold, yet their attention was completely consumed by the frantic swirl of their tongues.


    They tangled in a fierce, relentless kiss, barely breaking for breath, the rhythm of their heartbeats thudding against one another''s chests, as if their very souls were beating in sync.


    Each time one of them made a move, the other instinctively sought to outdo it, pushing the boundaries further with each action as the result was a fiery explosion of lust.


    "You''re so aggressive~" Raven breathed out, her voice heavy with teasing amusement as she broke the kiss, her eyes locking onto Ricky''s in a deadlock.


    "Says the one gripping me like a vice~" Ricky teased back in a breathless voice, matching her intense gaze with one of his own.


    Their breaths were hot and erratic, crashing against each other as their bodies twitched and heaved, straining in place but held back by the tension between them.


    It felt as though the true pleasure wouldn''t begin until one of them broke first with each other moving to please the other in slow, deliberate motions, like a gilded dance of restraint and anticipation.


    Ricky''s neck strained, veins pulsing with the effort as he felt her soft hands wrap around him, stroking with a fierce, relentless pace.


    Her touch was a scale, balancing her touch in such a delicate yet powerful way that each time her hand reached the top, she grazed her palm across his tip, sending a sharp tingle through his body before she jerked him down again.


    Ricky could feel his body heating up, sweat dripping from his forehead, sliding down his face and catching the curve of a smile, the reason being the sight building below him.


    As the droplet of sweat landed on Raven''s skin, she shuddered, her body reacting to the warmth and pressure but not from the foregoing substance, but from sis fingers which moved in a silent command, urging her to let go.


    She could feel her grip on the situation slipping as her folds oozed out an ambrosia of arousal, responding to the delicate pressure of his fingers.


    Each movement teased out a reaction, stimulating every nerve ending, sending waves of pleasure that seeped through her body.


    Almost forcing every part of her to scream surrender, to give in completely to the irresistible pull of him.


    Raven was undeniably beautiful, every curve and inch of her body crafted to seduce and drive anyone who laid eyes on her wild.


    But it was Ricky''s very anomaly that drew her in, pulling her into his grasp, the grasp of a man who was literally designed to f*ck.


    Given a system that encouraged it, rewarding him with skills that made him an irresistible pleasure inducing force with abilities rendered any long-term battle of lust almost pointless.


    This pointlessness became lustfully apparent at the fact that he was starting to consume her as Raven slowly began to break, her body trembling, barely able to stop the growing moans that bubbled up from deep within her throat, threatening to spill over like her squealing folds.


    Everything about him from his mere touch, the very thing that made her folds gush out with a thick, sweet tide of lust damped the bedding around them.


    But Raven never noticed the results of her body responses, her eyes completely locked in his, as his gaze held her captive in a hypnotic, magnetic connection.


    It was these sensations that drove her insane as her walls twitched, convulsing with each stroke as his fingers glided over her, expertly tormenting all her most sensitive spots.


    Ricky was relentless, determined to explore every inch of her, his touch leaving no part of her unearthed.


    Her face tensed, teeth gritted, as her legs instinctively wrapped around his waist, drawing him closer.


    Her eyes, still locked in his sleazy gaze, began to well up with tears, the overwhelming pleasure pushing her to the brink.


    Even as Raven thought she couldn''t break apart any more, Ricky leaned forward, his lips brushing against her ear.


    That small brush of his lips came with a tingle, as her ear twitched only for his next action to overdo that last.


    Letting out a whisper of sweet words that came soft but charged with an intensity that seemed to melt her from the inside out, his words sinking deep, unraveling her to her very core.


    "How can you be this beautiful?" Ricky said such simple words and yet, formed them in such a sinful way that each one dripped with desire, making the air around them burn even hotter.


    "How can you be so much of a devil~" Raven laughed breathlessly, the sound mixed with a soft moan she couldn''t quite suppress in a feeble attempt to shield his ears from the obvious.


    It was with this realization that she buried her face into his neck, desperate for the contact, as if it could somehow anchor her, preventing the torrent of lust from spilling over any further.


    "Everything about you, from this beautiful blue skin to these goddamn treasure of golden eyes, is just perfect~" Ricky sweetly whispered, ignoring her attempts to deflect as he grabbed her face firmly, ensuring she couldn''t hide, forcing her to face him fully, every inch of her under his gaze.


    "Ricky-" Raven gasped, her resolve crumbling at his sweet words, the heat of his touch making her brain all the way down to her knees weak in him.


    She wanted to look away, to escape the intensity of his gaze, but he wouldn''t let her, his grip on her face keeping her captive to his every word.


    "I-I-" Raven stuttered, unable to say the words that she never needed to be said in the first place, the intention enough for Ricky to bring her into a passionate and hungry kiss.


    At that same time, his two fingers which were slowly seeping in and out of her folds, caressing her gushing insides until they grazed a spot that made Raven absolute crumble, utterly melting under him completely.


    Almost immediately, Raven felt a charge of electricity shoot through her aching body that completely fried her pride.


    Showing this fact in real time as her folds trembled, flushed out a towering wave, pouring out onto his palm a honeyed syrup that stained him in her scent.


    The pleasure wasn''t simply internally as Raven convulsed, her hand leaving his cock and selfishly tangling into his hair alongside the other and pulling him closer, holding on like she might be swept away by her own climax.


    "A-AH~" Raven finally moaned out, her head arching alongside her body at the sheer pleasure that formed goosebumps alongside her blue skin.


    Ricky on the other hand, had a front row seat to the one woman show of Raven shuddering through her climax, feeling every tremor ripple through his fingertips while she sensually moaned out raving sound effects that would leave any moviegoers mouth agape.


    As if the pleasure swirling into her mind, flooding her psyche with such an overwhelming pleasure wasn''t enough, Ricky''s hands tightened, amplifying the sensation to a whole new level.


    Raven''s head slammed back into the bed, her beautiful lips parting in a breathless gasp as the waves of pleasure crashed over her.


    "AHH!" Raven towered over her last moan, her body unraveling before her very eyes as every tremor shook through her.


    Her insides clenched and pulsed, slobbering Ricky''s fingers with her heart until he finally pulled them out, watching her twitch lightly at the fact.


    "I was right, you''re dangerous." Raven gasped, her eyes following Ricky as he slowly licked his fingers while standing over her with an intense gaze that made her pulse race.


    Raven''s legs were already wrapped around his waist, their bodies locked together, yet they weren''t fully connected as his cock was helplessly sandwiched between her two folds before he finally grabbed it.


    "Oh Raven, I''ll never hurt you." Ricky murmured, gripping her hand and pressing a kiss to her palm as his smile spread across his face as he took in her already ragged expression.


    "Maybe you''ll be a little sore, but I''ll never hurt you." Ricky''s cheesy words made Raven roll her golden eyes, a small, teasing bite to her lip following as she looked up at him.


    Slowly, her hands gripped the sheets above her, giving Ricky a teasing look as her body moved like a wave, subtly arching in such a way that caused her perky breasts to jiggle rhythmically, each motion making his pupils contract as if trying to spur him on even further.


    "Then what are you waiting for? Show me what you got, tiger~" Raven teased, her voice thick with desire, rubbing her wet folds against his sandwich, throbbing cock while she seemingly laid beneath him, waiting.


    However, instead of slamming into her, watching her unravel under the strain as his cock stretched her to the limit, his eyes were predatory.


    Ricky wanted to mark Raven in more ways than one as he didn''t just want to claim her body, he wanted to leave a lasting impression that would forever bind the feeling of pleasure to him.


    Ricky wanted to consume every ounce of affection Raven could give, monopolize it in its purest form, and never let it go.


    In that moment, Ricky fully decided he would never let this breathtaking woman slip away. He was going to do everything in his power to make her his.


    Instead of rushing, Ricky leaned down, cupping her cheek before pressing his forehead gently against hers.


    Shocked, Raven hadn''t expected this reaction, thinking she would see the wild and rough side of him, but her thoughts spiraled with her eyes locked with his.


    Then, as if not wasting a single beat of their thumping hearts, Ricky guided the tip of his cock to the entrance of her folds, slowly pushing himself inside.


    Raven''s eyes widened, breathless as her folds and walls parted in an excruciating way, leaving her reeling from the shock only to look up and meet Ricky''s direct, warm gaze.


    Raven wanted to moan, express this overbearing feeling of her insides stretching to the limit as his cock slowly slid into her, filling her completely before pushing even deeper.


    How every spot within her being was being touched, caressed, and filled to the point where she felt herself expand with each movement.


    Yet, Raven was at a loss for words, hypnotized by his warm gaze as he sank deeper and deeper into her.


    Her eyes watered as her mouth opened and closed breathlessly, unsure of what to do until the very last bit was pushed fully into her.


    "A-AH!" Raven couldn''t hold back any longer, she couldn''t stop the moan as every ounce of strain from Ricky''s cock surged through her, spilling out into the world.


    It felt torturous yet intoxicating, oppressive yet fulfilling, feeling every inch of herself uncovered by his cock, and the expanding sensation made her body feel like it was stretching, completely filled in ways she hadn''t even known existed.


    Even now, as her moans spilled from her luscious lips, Ricky didn''t move his waist at all, yet she could feel herself still stimulated.


    Feeling a shiver of pleasure at every twitch his pulsating cock gave, stirring her body without even moving a single inch.


    What made it worse was when Raven looked back at Ricky, it was as if he knew this would happen, and that alone stung her pride even more.


    "Is that all y-you got?" Raven couldn''t help but gasp out in relation to this look, her chest heaving as even speaking felt suffocating, the words barely escaping her.


    However, Ricky simply smiled, gently caressing her lips in a slow, counterclockwise motion before his thumb slowly slid into her mouth.


    "I''m going to ruin you." Ricky''s calm words echoed, devoid of any sort of playfulness or cheesiness like they usually were, slowly hovering above her until his shadow barreled down onto her supple body.


    "Wh-" Raven began, thinking they were still in their playful back-and-forth, but his thumb hovered over her tongue, pressing down to silence her before she could finish.


    Instead, Ricky slowly moved his hips back, her warm, fleshy insides twitching madly with each subtle disruption, and he reveled in it completely.


    From the soothing warmth she enveloped him with to her slick walls gripping him in a tight, all inducing serenity that left him in utter satisfaction.


    It was hard for him to pull back even for a second, which is why his hips thrust into Raven with controlled, smooth precision, reclaiming his place inside her, digging deeper, and submerging his entire length back to where it was always meant to be.


    Raven wanted to speak, to say something, anything, but his thumb pressed down, silencing her words as only ragged breaths escaped, each one a haggard exhale of pleasure.


    Raven felt all of him fully re-enter her in such a slow manner so that she wouldn''t miss out on a single instance of him, filling her to the brim once more, stimulating every inch of her gushing pussy which quivered and seeped, thick streams of warmth that spilled out to lubricate his every thrust.


    His tip glided against her walls, pushing deep against them as it sent shocks of pleasure through her, making her insides tremble out a shivering response that made her body shake.


    It was as if Ricky was moving slowly for the sole purpose that any faster might make him miss something, anything that he could unearth about her as he savored every single second he had.


    As his cock sank back into its rightful place, wholly surrounded and consumed by her being, his tip seemed to slip just a little further.


    It was then that a dangerous jolt of electricity surged through Raven''s body, sending a violent shudder as the tip of Ricky''s cock kissed her womb


    Raven''s eyes rolled back, her mind going blank as his cock slowly filled every part of her, her hands instinctively gripping the sheets above her head.


    Her fingernails dug into the sheets, desperate for something, anything, to hold onto as a single slow thrust pushed her into a state.


    Ricky''s eyes stayed locked on the scene, watching Raven unravel before him, but even that wasn''t enough and slowly, he pinned her wrists to the bed and leaned down.


    "Say my name~" Ricky whispered, unable to resist teasing her as Raven went to open her mouth to respond, but before she could, Ricky lifted his hips.


    An aching sensation pulsed through Raven''s body, feeling his cock slither out from her tight hold.


    Then, as if on cue, he slowly slipped his hips in, the warm, gushy feeling enveloping him, tightening around him, pulling him back into her drenched embrace.


    "Mmmmh~" Raven wanted to moan out, but her teeth clenched as she bit down, feeling the tip of his cock gently brush kiss her womb so tenderly once again.


    Shivers of pleasures made her body ripple under him, her body wettening not only her serene blue skin, but the sheets under them.


    Raven had always prided herself on her dignity in the bedroom, yet her body seemed to betray her as her folds seeped out a honeyed tonic, intending to slather Ricky but unknowingly made a dampened mess of the bed underneath them.


    Ricky''s words weren''t just for show; he proved them true as he thrust his hips back into her, and she suddenly erupted outwards, her body spraying out its relief to the deep pressure constantly given to her.


    "O-Oh god~" Raven couldn''t help but moan out towards the heavens, her head tilting back in surrender as a desperate, sensual cry escaped her lips.


    "That''s not my name~" Ricky murmured softly, brushing his lips against hers, sending a shiver racing down her spine.


    "Raven."


    "Ah~"


    "Say."


    "AH~"


    "My."


    "AH!"


    "Name~"


    Every single iteration of his cock, every single push and pull, left Raven''s mouth agape and exuding a moan that built upon every moment slowly thrust into her.


    But even still, over and over, Ricky repeated the sentence as if burning it into the very subconies state that his cock was f*cking her into.


    Raven''s teary eyes looked up at Ricky, completely looking upon the man that was filling every facet of her.


    From her sight to the sounds, Ricky was filling her completely, pushing her further than she ever thought possible.


    Raven didn''t know what to do, her body writhing desperately beneath him, already begging for more.


    Her folds and insides clenched down, twitching and churning out that honeyed nectar that absolutely ruined the sheets beneath them.


    Feeling the same thrust, the same steady pace, but every time he pushed back into her, it drove her body wild, crazy as digging a rabbit hole within her body that could never be filled with anything that wasn''t him.


    A shuddering wave of pleasure erupted from her, the final touch coming as his cock kissed her womb once more, sending a delicious tremor through her.


    It was suffocating, Ricky was suffocating her under his entire being and all she could do was take it, every sensual thrust after another.


    "R-Ricky~" Raven finally gave in, unable to stop herself as that melodic chim echoed in Ricky''s ears, making his spine tingle.


    It was everything he desired it to be and more, watching the vulnerable Raven utter his name in a way that would drive any man mad.


    That''s when his hands shifted from pinning her wrists to gripping her hands, intertwining their fingers together.


    Ricky had gotten what he wanted, but it still wasn''t enough as his eyes locked onto Raven, as if ready to consume her entirely.


    THWAP


    GASP


    A gasp escaped from Raven''s lips, which had just beautifully uttered his name moments before as her eyes widened to fit even more of his being.


    The wet, messy folds of Raven''s body barely registered in Ricky''s ears as he thrusted into her, drawing out a drenched cry from more than one pair of lips.


    "H-Ha, AHH~" Raven''s voice broke into a shaky cry, her body arching instinctively as the overwhelming sensation crashed into her all at once.


    It hit her like a tidal wave, surging through her nerves and drowning her in pure, unrelenting pleasure.


    Then it was her body''s turn to respond, convulsing with a gush of molten ecstasy that spilled over Ricky''s cock, coating him in her slick heat.


    The overflow splashed against his abdomen, sticky and shameless, as if her pleasure itself was applauding his relentless action.


    "R-Ricky~" Raven''s mind was blank, but that name clung to her like a serrated mark, slipping from her lips in a way that seemed only to drive Ricky further into a maddening state.


    There was no trace of softness or tender embrace left in Ricky''s movements as he plunged himself wholly into Raven, his every action resolute of the promise he made earlier to ruin her body completely.


    Ricky thrust his hips forward, uncovered with anything that wasn'' this beautiful specimen lying beneath him and with another sudden, powerful thrust, he slammed into her, forcing out only one sound that Raven''s lips could muster.


    "Ricky~" Ravne cried out to him, almost in a frenzy, taking that punishing force wholeheartedly.


    The veins in Ricky''s neck tightened, hearing the filthy squelch of Raven''s drenched folds swallowing him whole, coating his length in a gushing heat that dripped unabashedly down her thighs and pooled onto the sheets beneath them.


    Raven''s body, slick with sweat and gleaming under the weight of her own desire, arched in a desperate display of pleasure.


    But then, Ricky''s body came down on her with an unforgiving force, pinning her to the bed.


    Her nipples, already hard, were crushed against her perky blue breasts, the sensitive buds straining as his weight pressed them down.


    Her golden eyes were hazy, her mind barely registering the sensation of Ricky''s tongue entwined with hers that stopped his name slipping out repeatedly from his lips, instead replaced by the sounds of her pussy echoing in the air.


    TWAP


    TWAP


    An unrelenting force slammed into her guts, each vicious thrust from Ricky relentless, driving into her with a shared, singular desire.


    With every movement, the tension built between them formed as Ricky continued to claim Raven, finally releasing his hold on her tongue.


    "Ricky~"


    "Ricky~"


    Raven was on autopilot, her mind completely consumed, filled only with his name as it echoed through her thoughts.


    Ricky''s gaze dropped to the scene unfolding beneath him; her body pinned under his, eyes closed in ecstasy, her red hair cascading messily around her face as soft, desperate moans spilled from her parted lips.


    Her body trembled beneath him, each movement driven by instinct at this point, completely surrendered to the overwhelming waves of pleasure that constantly slammed into her pussy.


    Never before had he wanted to knock up a woman as much as he did Raven in this moment as she laid sprawled out before him, moaning his name.


    To bind her to him through the connection they shared, just as he did with Raven in this very moment.


    Even though Ricky possessed a system that rewarded him for such an effort, none of that mattered, it didn''t even register in his mind as the world outside faded into oblivion, leaving only her.


    She lay sprawled out beneath him, utterly exposed, her body trembling with every moan that slipped from her lips.


    Each time her name fell from her mouth, it sounded like a prayer, a desperate, pleading whisper that only made Ricky''s balls tighten with every thrust


    "Ricky~"


    But it was that single moan that made Ricky bite his lip, suddenly yanking Raven close as his hips slammed into her being, pumping out one maddening thrust after another until he felt his balls swirl.


    With a final, towering thrust, Ricky poured everything he had into Raven, his cock drilling deep within her, past the limits of a mere kiss as the tip of his cock pried open her womb then twitched madly.


    "H-HA~" Raven gasped, the sensation hitting her immediately as she let out a passionate moan, her body responding instinctively as a wave of warmth flooded her insides.


    Her thighs trembled, her body unable to do anything else as Ricky dumped his entire being into her womb, spurting out wave after wave of his thick milky cum as he sought to fill her completely with his being.


    Fireworks seemingly exploded in Raven''s head, her body erupting with a seismic climax of her own as the mere heat of his cum was maddening, furthering her own pleasure to another degree.


    Feeling utterly breathless as she felt her stomach deform with a hot liquid, swirling within her womb and filling it to the very brim until it couldn''t hold any more and then receiving another helping.


    Ragged breaths escaped her sultry lips until Ricky finally unloaded the last of his baby batter into her being while she took every single ounce of it.


    Raven''s hazy gaze looked at Ricky still heavily gazing down at her and when she went to blink her eyes, she suddenly saw herself staring at the wall that the bed frame was pressed against.


    Instinctively she looked back, watching her body move like some sort of doll and having her body flipped on its stomach, only to have her ass pulled up.


    A firm grip latched around her waist until her back, that wanted to follow upwards was suddenly pushed down.


    Her perky, pointed nipples rubbed against the wettened sheets of her own doing as her back slanted upwards to two perky blue peaks with Ricky standing before them.


    His cock still lodged deep inside her, his cum still filling her to the brim, and with the sole intention of continuing.


    One time wasn''t enough, not even a single night was enough as Ricky was going to keep going until he couldn''t muster another drop of his cum into this woman.


    Ricky was going to squeeze every single ounce of cum that his dangling balls could offer into Raven, filling her in such a way that even she would know that there was no way she could escape motherhood.


    CLAP


    "Ah~"


    The first iteration of this desire sparked with Ricky slamming his thrusting back into Raven, her ass clapping out in applause at his determination as a low, groan of a moan followed.


    BAM


    The force of his movement slamming the bed frame into the wall with small cracks sprouting upwards, splintering as the weathered paint unraveled.


    Ricky was seemingly lost in a trace, his eyes reflecting the lapis blue as the only thing that mattered was drilling himself into Raven, repeatedly.


    Her moans were cast in the backdrop with the only discernible sound even heard as the bedframe slamming against the wall.


    Destroying the wall before it was the paint chips fluttered off the wall with every iteration of force that Ricky slammed into Raven.


    "R-Ricky w-AH~" Raven tiredly tried to protest but it was overwhelmed by his cock, filling her completely and forcing out a moan that properly correlated with his movements.


    Raven once again dug her hands into the sheets, pressing her own head into them as muffled cries sounded as she had no choice but to take it all.


    The pleasure was maddening, teetering on the edge of torment for Raven as her body started to shake uncontrollably.


    Then, without a single ounce of hesitation, Ricky slammed his cock into Raven as her head jerked upwards alongside her eyes.


    "A-AH~" Raven let out a muffled cry, releasing a wave of nectar that coated Ricky in the aftermath of her climax.


    It was only after this that Raven''s body was lifted upwards but the pounding that her ass endured never stopped for a second.


    Ricky wrapped his arms around her, his lips trailing over her salty skin, leaving hickeys as if marking her for all to see.


    Then suddenly, her breath hitched, her eyes widening as Ricky pushed himself even further into her as a faint semblance of clarity washed over her mind at the immediate danger.


    Feeling how his cock started extending its reach, almost desperate in pushing her insides beyond what she thought was possible as she instinctively shook her head.


    "I''ll break, I''ll break~" Raven slurred out in desperation while shaking her head as these two words then started to repeat over and over again but Ricky''s arms locked her in place.


    However even with the warning, even with her mind warning her body of their impending doom, her folds still gushed out nectar with every repetition of his hips slamming into her.


    Her broken record of desperation heightening as his cock reached further and further, until Ricky felt his balls tighten and then almost immediately, the veins in his arms bulged.


    "I''LL BREAK!" Raven screeched out, feeling Ricky pull her down with all his strength and impale her entire body on his cock.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH~" Raven screeched out a moan that utterly shattered her mind into pleasure induced pieces, a body altering climax making her entire being seizure while Ricky unloaded another helping of his cum.


    Her womb, already filled to its brim, stretched to accommodate this new surge, leaving her feeling as though her stomach might burst, but it never did.


    Raven''s mouth hung open, trying to release a moan, but her lungs had already been squeezed dry, leaving only a ragged breath to escape.


    Her mind spun, her eyes blinking as she suddenly found herself pinned against the wall, her entire view consumed by Ricky.


    "C-Can-You-no-much-AH~" Raven couldn''t even form a coherent sentence, slurring out random words and trying to stream them together until Ricky resumed his pace.


    THUMP


    THUMP


    THUMP


    The wall suddenly splintered as Raven''s body thudded lifelessly against it, her form completely impaled and engulfed by his cock.


    Her head rested against his shoulder, breathlessly staring out into the distance as her body was being turned into Ricky''s personal pocket pussy.


    All she could do was feel the unnerving amount of pleasure constantly rammed into her folds, driving all the way to her deepest regions and then expanding further.


    Raven''s pussy, something that could''ve been described as two tight lips pressed against each other had now been utterly turned into a gaping mess that served to accommodate Ricky.


    Stretched, deformed, Raven was utterly ruined to anything that wasn''t the monster that was slamming into her spewing cunt.


    Everything she thought her body was supposed to be was permanently altered by Ricky, becoming a sprayer and a mother all in one sitting.


    "F*ck~" Ricky only ever muttered out a curse word, unable to understand how a woman could be so utterly appealing without even trying as he pressed even deeper into Raven.


    Raven had once thought she knew pleasure, knew what a climax was, until she had Ricky slam his cock so far into her guts that they imitated a sprinkler.


    "No more~" Raven finally whined out, mustering up the last of her strength and pressing her forehead against Ricky''s.


    Even when her pussy was being punished, ravaged, Raven still felt pleasure and it all seemed too much as Ricky looked back at her.


    "Tell me you''ll have my kids." Ricky whispered such an outlandish request only for Ricky to whine it out back at him.


    "I''ll have your babies-AH~" Raven tried to say, only for her pleading to be interrupted by Ricky''s cock twitching and driving into her deepest part, then pushing even further.


    Ricky grated his pearly whites, unleashing another serving of cum into Raven as those words were nothing but a trap, a trigger that sparked him to release that building feeling within the very core of his balls.


    In an instant, Raven was back on the bed with Ricky above her, his earlier promise completely forgotten.


    "Now tell me you''ll only ever love me~" Ricky whispered another outlandish request only for Raven to fold almost immediately.


    "I love you-AH~"


    This cycle continued relentlessly throughout the night, Ricky unable to resist the temptation to indulge in Raven again and again.


    Each time their bodies met, the room filled with the sound of their labored breaths, muffled cries, and all under the bed that was utterly destroyed and ruined beneath them.


    Outside, the moon''s journey across the sky marked the passing hours, its silver light casting faint shadows on their intertwined forms.


    As the night deepened, the windows became foggy from their shared exertion, the sheets completely soaked and ultimately thrown to the side in a cluttered, wettened heap.


    Finally, the first rays of dawn pierced through the curtains, illuminating their glistening, sweat-slicked bodies still pressed together, refusing to part.


    CLAP


    "F*CK~" Ricky let out a guttural groan, unloading his balls into Raven for what seemed like the first time to him, but it was the twenty-seventh for Raven.


    Raven lay completely limp, her body yielding to Ricky with no resistance, every word he spoke proving true.


    By this point, she was entirely consumed, her form utterly ruined by the relentless intensity of their union.


    Every inch of her felt stretched, marked, and claimed, leaving her a trembling, breathless shell of the woman she had been before.


    Raven didn''t know what would result in the future but one thing was for sure, she was exhausted.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    Ricky collapsed onto Raven, both of them surrendering to the weight of their exhaustion.


    Their bodies, slick with sweat and tangled in the aftermath of their relentless passion, remained entwined as they drifted into unconsciousness, surrounded by the chaotic mess they had created together.


    DING


    [Mission received: Raven Darkh?lme]


    Difficulty: Hard


    Character Sheet: S


    Description: Raven is an ageless time piece who has fought hard against father time in order to keep her luxurious curves and drop dead gorgeous body. Her heart has already been sworn to Irene Adler however her needs are still on the table. However although Irene gives her so much, hse can''t give her the family you can and that is your biggest strength.


    Objective: Knock up the famous and fierce Raven who can only be described as breedable.


    Reward: 100,000 IP 300 Gacha or Raven''s Powers


    Main Mission: 300 Gacha or Raven''s Powers


    Impregnante Once:


    Rewards: 300 Gacha or Raven''s Powers


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnate Raven while she''s still in a relationship with Irene(Complete):


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Ruin sex for Raven(Complete):


    Reward: Legendary Skill Coupon


    Make raven question her love with Irene while you Impregnate her(Complete):


    Reward: +5 Intelligence


    Have Raven profess her want to have your children(Complete):


    Reward: Legendary Weapon Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    Spend The Night F*cking Raven(Complete)


    Reward: Epic Item Coupon


    ???????????????????


    Absolutely Destroy Raven''s Expectations Of Sex(Complete)


    Reward: 500,000 IP


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    Next Morning,


    "You''re an animal." Raven repeated to him after they woke, her voice a mix of exhaustion and disbelief.


    Now, as they sat in the bath together, the scent of sex still clinging to them like some sort of disease, Ricky wondered if one bath would even be enough to wash it all away.


    "I''m sorry," Ricky genuinely apologized, his lips pressing softly against her collarbone, a sincere hint of remorse in his voice.


    "You''re an animal," Raven sighed, still reeling from the events of the night before.


    As she processed everything, she realized the future was going to change, no matter how much she wanted to resist it.


    "I''m really sorry, I don''t know what the f*ck came over me but I just wanted-"


    "You''re an animal, an animal." Raven breathlessly uttered out, her words sort of the same but the hint of difference made Ricky let out a sigh of relief.


    "I know, I''m just the worst." Ricky laughed, tapping his forehead against Raven''s shoulder.


    A wave of anxiety hit him, the fear that she might hate him creeping in, before he immediately cursed at himself in frustration.


    ''Why the f*ck am I thinking like this, I''m Ricky Luciano and-''


    SIGH


    Ricky''s determination utterly paused at Raven''s haggard sigh, barely having any feeling in her legs at this point before she reached behind her, rubbing his chin.


    "I forgive you." Raven didn''t know why, but she couldn''t bring herself to stay mad at Ricky as she glanced at him, his smile stretching from ear to ear.


    "Does that mean we can-"


    "Don''t push it, I can''t even feel my legs." Raven''s eyebrow twitched, frustration seeping into tone as Ricky nodded his head, showing that he understood.


    "...."


    However as the silence grew within the tub, Ricky began to truly ponder the depth of her words and their philosophical meaning.


    "So does that mean after you can feel them we can-"


    Cough


    Ricky quickly coughed, trying to mask the end of his sentence, noticing the glare in her eyes at the sheer audacity of his question.


    "Hey, are you hungry?" Ricky asked suddenly, glancing at Raven, who shot him a side-eyed glare.


    "Not in a sexual way, I mean real food." Ricky clarified quickly as he wanted to add a jab or two, but decided to hold off on any more sexual innuendos as Raven leaned back against his chest.


    SIGH


    "Yeah, I could eat."


    Author''s Note: Sorry it took so long but I felt like it wasn''t good enough when I first read it. Also if you have better title suggestions for the Chapter I''d be willing to listen since I couldnt'' think of one that wasn''t Smurf Fever LOL.

 Chapter 125 - 121: Time Flies When You’re Having Fun

    Chapter 125: Chapter 121: Time Flies When You''re Having Fun


    Later In The Kitchen,


    Whistle Sounds


    Ricky whistled a cheerful tune as he crafted a plate of scrambled eggs so delicious, even he was surprised by the result.


    Cooking was a skill he''d picked up in passing, but thanks to Alina, he''d acquired the Epic Cooking Skill but had underestimated its usefulness until now as these eggs smelled absolutely divine.


    "Sh*t, this actually tastes good." Ricky muttered, caught off guard by his own culinary prowess.


    He paused for a moment, the unexpected flavor bringing a flicker of pride to his face before his gaze drifted upward.


    It was then that a long-forgotten mission, seemingly buried for the past three years, finally resurfaced.


    Ignored and tucked away in the recesses of his mind, it now demanded his attention, as if waiting for this very moment to reappear.


    Moving the eggs with his wooden spatula, Ricky didn''t immediately receive the rewards but actually thought about it for more than five seconds.


    ''Honestly, I''d pick gacha, but Raven''s powers seem way too useful.'' Ricky mused, weighing his options.


    He already had more than enough X-Genes to manage, but unlike his Barrier ability, this one didn''t demand immense skill.


    It was practical and low-maintenance, perfect for those convenient scenarios where it could make all the difference.


    ''Alright, choose Raven''s powers and receive rewards.''


    DING


    (X-Gene) The Metamorph''s X-Gene allows him to psionically alter his biological cells, enabling instant transformation into any human or humanoid form with precise duplication of physical and sensory details, including voice and scent. This advanced ability makes him a gene-shaper, capable of rewriting genomic instructions with unparalleled speed and accuracy.


    (Legendary Weapon) Stormcaller''s Glaive: This elegant glaive features a blade that crackles with stormy energy, and its haft is adorned with runes of thunder and lightning.


    Abilities:


    Lightning Strike: The glaive can summon powerful bolts of lightning to strike enemies, dealing electric damage and potentially stunning them.


    Storm Shield: The user can create a protective barrier of swirling storm clouds that deflect projectiles and absorb energy attacks.


    Tempest Dance: The glaive grants the wielder enhanced speed and agility, allowing them to move with the swiftness of a storm.


    (Legendary Skill) Frostborn Resilience: The user''s body becomes resistant to cold and ice, reducing the impact of freezing effects and low temperatures.


    (Legendary Skill) Tracking Ring: A stunningly crafted ring bound to its wearer, granting the ability to pinpoint their exact location at any time, no matter where they are.


    (Epic Item) Translation Ring: A ring that allows the wearer to understand and speak any language, facilitating communication with diverse cultures and species.


    Ricky''s eye twitched suddenly as he set the spatula down, a sharp thrum echoing in the back of his mind.


    He''d been actively working on improving his intelligence, and now, he could feel the progress. It wasn''t just a notion as he was genuinely getting smarter, the clarity in his thoughts becoming sharper with each passing moment.


    Improving intelligence felt like a shift in how Ricky''s mind processed the world around him.


    It wasn''t just about remembering more facts or solving puzzles faster, it was deeper than that.


    His comprehension sharpened, allowing him to grasp complex ideas with ease that would have once taken hours of frustration when learning about them.


    Patterns became clearer, connections between seemingly unrelated things started to click into place.


    Conversations felt different too; sometimes he felt as if he could anticipate where someone''s train of thought might lead or recall details that others forgot.


    Even his problem-solving improved; not just finding solutions, but recognizing the best and most efficient path forward.


    It was as if his brain had leveled up, rewiring itself to operate on a higher frequency.


    Tasks that once felt overwhelming now seemed manageable, and as the fog of mental strain lifted, he could feel a sense of control and clarity that was undeniably empowering.


    It was an unfamiliar, almost strange experience for Ricky, but the boost to his intelligence hadn''t changed who he was at his core.


    His signature sleazy smile slowly returned, a clear sign that the essence of Ricky Luciano remained untouched.


    ''I''ve got just the people for these rings.'' Ricky thought, slipping the tracking ring into his inventory before pulling out the translation ring.


    "Hey, gorgeous, how are you feeling?" Ricky asked, dumping the eggs onto the plate and turning around as it was then revealed that, all this time, he''d been wearing nothing but an apron.


    "Tired," Raven huffed, her face buried in the couch cushion but as Ricky placed the eggs on the table, the delicious scent caught her attention, and she lifted her head.


    Reaching out, Ricky held the plate just out of her grasp, teasing her until she sat up and glared at him. He refused to meet her eyes, his focus purposely averted.


    "Thank you," Raven said, appreciating Ricky''s hard work. Ricky turned to her, his signature sleazy smile spreading across his face.


    "You''re welcome." Ricky handed her the plate along with a fork and as she began to devour the eggs, Ricky casually slipped his arm around her, watching her intently as she ate.


    "How are you feeling-"


    "Oh my god, you made this?!" Raven exclaimed, covering her mouth in an attempt to hide the fact she was still chewing as she looked up at Ricky with wide, dazzled eyes, clearly impressed.


    Ricky would later realize that, out of all the skills he had acquired from the system, those that made women quiver and others that fed his ego, the one that would prove most valuable was the cooking skill.


    Because, in the end, it wasn''t lust or even true love that won a woman''s heart, it was food.


    "Uh, yeah?" Ricky chuckled, caught off guard by her sudden reaction.


    Raven, however, just glanced back at the plate and resumed devouring the scrambled eggs with such intensity that Ricky couldn''t help but laugh out loud.


    "Do you want another serving-"


    "Yes, please." Raven interrupted Ricky, abruptly shoving the plate into his chest, as if demanding that he hand over more right then and there.


    Ricky simply laughed, sitting back up to serve her seconds, then thirds, feeding Raven until she finally laid contentedly on his lap, her hunger sated.


    ''This is new.'' Ricky thought, effortlessly pulling Raven into his lap as she became like putty in his arms, completely relaxed now that she was full.


    "Wow, that was amazing~" Raven murmured in a daze, rubbing her stomach contentedly as Ricky raised an eyebrow, his smile widening at the praise.


    "I mean, how did you get the texture-Ricky?" Raven asked, her voice full of enthusiasm about the scrambled eggs.


    But she stopped mid-sentence when she noticed Ricky slipping something onto her middle finger.


    "It''s nothing, just wanted to give you something, don''t mind it," Ricky replied, brushing it off casually as he slid the tracking ring onto her finger as Raven stared at it, wide-eyed, processing what just happened.


    To Ricky, it was just a tracker, a simple way to keep this little snake from slipping out of his grasp.


    But to Raven, it was one of the most beautiful rings she had ever seen, its design catching the light in a way that made it seem almost magical.


    The ring was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, its band sleek and polished, crafted from a dark, nearly black metal that gleamed with a subtle, mysterious sheen.


    Intricate patterns of delicate silver filigree spiraled around the band, almost like vines, wrapping around a central gemstone.


    The stone itself was a deep, rich blue, glowing softly in the light, with an almost otherworldly aura.


    It wasn''t overly flashy, but its elegance and quiet beauty made it stand out, drawing the eye without shouting for attention.


    "I-Its beautiful." Raven muttered, her voice soft with awe. Her eyes locked onto the ring as she traced her finger along the delicate grooves, feeling the intricate designs beneath her touch.


    It was then that she realized this was Ricky''s first gift to her, and the thought left her momentarily speechless, a mix of surprise and something deeper stirring within her.


    "If you don''t like it-"


    "NO-no, I love it." Raven almost shouted, immediately calming herself while looking back at Ricky and caressing his cheek.


    "Thank you, really." Raven couldn''t help but give Ricky a warm smile, kissing his lips passionately before his hands slowly slid down his waist.


    "Ricky we just-"


    "I''ll make you dinner-"


    "Take me~" Raven jokingly moaned, only for Ricky to immediately take her into a princess carry and head towards the guest bedroom.


    "Sweet."


    4 days later,


    "You''re an animal~" Raven chuckled from under the sheets, playfully pushing Ricky away as he kissed the back of her neck, his lips lingering for a moment before he pulled back with a grin.


    "You just bring it out of me~" Ricky whispered playfully, pressing a kiss to her lips before she pulled away.


    "Ricky, the trial is tomorrow-"


    "Then let''s worry about it tomorrow," Ricky whispered, his hands trailing down her stomach. She tensed, her body shivering under his touch as she instinctively contracted her muscles.


    Raven had never felt this way with anyone before, the way Ricky seemed to understand and utilize every inch of her body made it feel as if she could never say no, as if he had a way of drawing her in that left her powerless to resist.


    "A-Ah~" Raven moaned, feeling Ricky slide inside her once more, clicking into place as if they were always meant to be connected in this way.


    "God, everytime you moan it makes me crazy~" Ricky whispered, cupping her perky breasts as his hips slowly rocked against Raven''s back as she arched her neck, resting her head on his shoulder.


    Ricky took the opportunity to kiss her neck, his touch delicate yet driving her wild as she lost herself to him once again, unable to resist the intensity of his caress.


    45 minutes later,


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    Raven moaned loudly, gripping the bed frame for dear life as Ricky consumed her every thought, his relentless pace leaving her unable to think of anything but him.


    Even after they both came, even after they reveled in the pleasure of each other''s lust, Ricky didn''t stop as Raven had become a drug to him, and he couldn''t get enough.


    "Raven, I can''t~" Ricky groaned, unable to hold back any longer before pulling his hips back.


    Then without a single ounce of hesitation, Ricky slammed his hips back into Raven as her perky blue ass rippled under the force of him unloading another heaping of his cum into her now impregnated womb.


    Raven slumped over, her body caught and supported by Ricky as he leaned in to kiss her back once more.


    "R-Rest, I need rest~" Raven gasped, her breaths shallow, as Ricky''s cum continued to pulse inside her.


    Ricky leaned back, their bodies collapsing onto the bed as the air was thick with their mingled scents, a heady blend of sweat and desire.


    Ricky held Raven close, her chest rising and falling rapidly against his, feeling the heat of her skin as he wrapped his arms around her, keeping her pressed to him, reluctant to let go.


    Huff


    Huff


    huff


    "The deal''s off." Ricky huffed suddenly, his tone nonchalant and calm but it made Raven''s exhausted body jolt upright, her eyes wide with a flash of fear.


    Ricky suddenly huffed out that suddenly made the tired Raven shoot her head up with a trace of fear in her eyes.


    "Wha-" Raven stammered, confusion clouding her thoughts at how he could say all those things to her and simply abandon her.


    "I''m just going to keep you, probably lock you in some cage." Ricky teased, hugging her tightly.


    Ricky smirked to himself, silently promising that he was going to make Raven his woman, even if it took every last bit of charm he had.


    "Ha~" Raven let out a relieved sigh, only to catch herself when a thought crossed her mind.


    She realized, with a small jolt of fear, that the idea of him throwing her away actually terrified her more than she''d like to admit.


    "So what am I, your pet?" Raven raised an eyebrow playfully, her lips curling into a teasing smile.


    Ricky shook his head, his expression softening as he leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead.


    "More like the future Raven Luciano." Ricky said, laying it on thick, his smirk widening as Raven couldn''t help but be baffled, her mind racing to keep up with his boldness.


    Ricky purposely said it in such a cheesy way that it was hard to tell if he was being serious.


    Raven stared at him, her mind racing, completely taken aback by the unexpected surge of confidence he was throwing her way as she couldn''t decide whether to laugh or just process what he''d said.


    "And who says I''m taking your last name?'' Raven chuckled, tracing her finger on his hest and slightly looking up.


    "Fate?" Ricky seemingly asked, his tone playful as Raven laughed softly, shaking her head as she rested her head on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her ear.


    Raven didn''t want to believe Ricky''s words, dismissing his sweet professions as just another one of his cheesy whims.


    But the more he laid it on, the harder it became for her to ignore them as each word seemed to chip away at her walls, and soon, she couldn''t help but take them to heart with a warm sincerity.


    Ricky, for his part, made sure Raven couldn''t sense any doubt in him as he poured out his sincerity with such intensity that it felt like a first for him, something he rarely allowed himself to show.


    "How do I know that you don''t say this with all the other girls?" Raven asked, her voice laced with suspicion as she looked up at him.


    She absentmindedly ran her fingers through her hair, her gaze fixed on the ceiling, as if searching for some answer in the air above them.


    "Because I''ve never meant the things I''ve said to anyone else the way I mean them to you," Ricky said softly, his gaze intense as he looked down at Raven.


    Her eyes, usually so steady, trembled slightly at his words before she abruptly stood up, her emotions swirling within her.


    "T-This is a bad idea-" Raven, realizing she was actually falling, slightly panicked and pushed away from him.


    "No, why?" Ricky asked, sitting up with her as their naked bodies brushed together, and he instinctively wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer as if to shield her from whatever was making her pull away.


    "I''m sorry Ricky, I can''t-"


    "Raven." Ricky''s voice softened as he held her close, his arms tightening around her in a comforting embrace.


    The girl almost closed her eyes, surrendering to the moment, but a shake of her head stopped her, her thoughts still racing despite the warmth between them.


    "Ricky-"


    "Raven, you can''t ever convince me that you didn''t feel anything, I''m sorry." Ricky said softly, his hands gently cupping her face, tilting it to force her to look at him as her heart raced as she met his gaze.


    "And how do you know it''s a bad idea without seeing it through." Ricky whispered, his words laced with temptation as he held her close.


    Raven, feeling the pull of his presence, rested her head on his shoulder, her mind torn between the caution she felt and the undeniable allure of him.


    "But Irene-"


    "Can never give you a loving family," Ricky whispered, his words lingering in the air as his eyes gazed at her system description.


    "However, although Irene gives her so much, she can''t give her the family you can, and that is your biggest strength." Those were the words the system had described for him, and Ricky, ever the opportunist, was shamelessly ready to use everything at his disposal to ensnare her.


    It made Raven tremble, those words cutting deeper than she expected as they were the same ones that had haunted her for so long.


    After living with the weight of her past, she couldn''t help but imagine a future; one filled with children and love, a dream she had always longed for but feared would never come to pass.


    Deep down, Raven longed for a family of her own, to raise her children with pride, teaching them to embrace their mutant heritage, something no one had done for her.


    "Don''t do that." Raven''s voice broke, her words fragile as she looked up at Ricky as the vulnerability in her eyes revealed that it was a touchy subject, one that struck deep.


    Ricky, sensing the shift, pulled her into a tight embrace, offering her the comfort she hadn''t realized she needed.


    "Sorry." Ricky muttered awkwardly, realizing that he went too far, his awkward laugh fading as he held her a little tighter, hoping his presence could ease the discomfort he had caused.


    "You really like me, like really?" Raven asked suddenly, her tone quirky but cute as Ricky didn''t hesitate, pulling her into a long, deep kiss.


    "God, yes." Ricky breathed against her lips, a smile of relief spreading across his face.


    Raven couldn''t help but smile as well, the moment feeling strangely comforting, and for once, she allowed herself to enjoy the connection they shared.


    "Fine, I''ll give you the chance to convince me."


    ''What am I saying.'' Raven thought to herself, immediately regretting the words that had almost forced themselves out.


    As she processed her own vulnerability, Ricky''s eyes gleaned green as Shadow Broker had unknowingly been standing next to them.


    Without a sound, he slowly and subtly retreated back into the shadows, his presence lingering just long enough to hint at why he intruded in the first place.


    "Now tell me more about you, since you wanted to take a break." Ricky said softly, his voice a gentle invitation and as he spoke, he slowly caressed her beautiful, orange hair, his fingers weaving through the strands.


    Raven leaned into his touch, a quiet comfort settling over her as she considered how to open up.


    "Well, what do you want to know?" Raven asked with curiosity, her eyes searching his face as Ricky paused for a moment, thinking it over.


    "What about other people you were throughout history?" Ricky wondered, actually shocked that Raven could''ve been other people in history.


    "Florence nightingale, I took the identity of this nurse during the crimean war to make sure it played out as predicted." Raven revealed though RIcky had no idea who that was and merely nodded along.


    "You have no idea who she is, don''t you?" Raven laughed, her tone light and teasing as Ricky gently parted her hair behind her ears, his fingers brushing against her skin.


    "Well, do you know who Ricky Freeman is?" Ricky asked, his voice playful yet curious.


    Raven tilted her head, trying to recall if that name held any significance, wondering if it was someone personal in his life.


    "That was my name before I was adopted by Lucky." Ricky explained with a laugh, watching as Raven''s expression shifted to one of surprise, clearly taken aback by the unexpected revelation.


    "You were adopted, I thought-"


    "Lucky usually keeps it hush-hush since the orphanage meant a lot to me growing up, even if the caretaker was a total b*tch," Ricky lamented, a hint of bitterness in his voice and Raven smiled softly, but then her expression faltered, and a sad smile appeared on her face as she understood the deeper meaning behind his words.


    "I was adopted too, way back by a nun." Raven revealed, her voice quiet but steady as Ricky looked at her, surprised by the sudden confession


    "No way, are you religious-"


    "No, no, I was abandoned in the woods, and she found me while doing missionary work." Raven sighed, resting her head on his chest as he stroked her hair thoughtfully.


    "So, is that where you found God?" Ricky joked, but Raven simply looked down.


    "No, I cannot believe in a God who wants to be praised all the time-" Raven''s fingers trailed down his chest, but it wasn''t Ricky who stopped her.


    Growl


    Raven''s stomach suddenly growled, her face turning red as she tried to mask it with a smile, but it only made Ricky laugh.


    "Alright, now it''s my turn to wine and dine you."


    15 minutes later,


    "Oh my god." Raven covered her mouth after tasting his spaghetti sauce, and Ricky laughed, proud of his cooking.


    "Good right, it''s my maid''s recipe, Isabella." Ricky hovered behind Raven, watching as she got lost in the sauce.


    "T-This is the best spaghetti sauce I''ve ever had."


    "Oh come on Raven-"


    "No, I''m serious, Tiger." Raven grabbed his cheeks, wiggling them side to side before scooping up some more sauce.


    "Here, have some." Raven smeared the sauce on his face, holding back a laugh as Ricky froze.


    "You did not-"


    "I did!" Raven cackled at her own actions, while Ricky licked his lips before suddenly lunging forward.


    "N-No-HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Raven squealed, running away, only for Ricky to scoop her up with one arm as she squirmed.


    "R-RICKY!" Raven screamed with a smile as Ricky playfully smothered her mouth with the sauce, both of them laughing in each other''s embrace.


    The laughter slowly faded as their eyes met, and they leaned in to kiss, tumbling onto the floor in each other''s arms.


    20 minutes later,


    Now lying in each other''s arms, Raven huffed against his chest, both of them covered in sauce, laughing every now and then.


    "When you said we were going to eat, I didn''t think we''d eat it off of each other." Raven chuckled, looking up at Ricky who showed a sleazy smile.


    "But that was the best part?" Ricky kissed Raven, their lips tangling in a small but invigorating dance before releasing.


    "You''re such a tease~" Raven purred, caressing his chin before leaning back in as Ricky couldn''t help but add onto their banter.


    "You bring it out of me~"


    Kissing him once more, Ricky picked Raven up and gently placed her on the table as she looked up at him.


    "Well, the spaghetti is ruined, so how about a sandwich?" Ricky pulled Raven closer, kissing her collarbone as she ran her fingers through his hair.


    "I could eat."


    5 minutes later,


    Naked and eating a meatball sub laced with the leftover sauce that wasn''t smeared on them, Raven had no choice but to sit in Ricky''s lap as he refused to let her go.


    "Mmmmmh~" Raven pressed her hand to her cheek, letting out a delicate squeal as her taste buds danced with delight.


    Ricky laughed, a little saddened that he didn''t get to eat it off her body as she did a playful little dance in his lap before finishing the sub.


    "Are you-"


    "Go ahead." Ricky handed her his half-eaten sub, and she took it with a grin, eagerly munching down on it.


    Gulp


    "Oh my god, Ricky~" Raven suddenly whined, turning back to Ricky who was busy kissing her back.


    "Hmmm?"


    "The trial, it''s in six hours!" Raven covered her mouth, realizing they had already wasted practically the whole day.


    Gazing to the side, she noticed it was already midnight, the trail having started at 6 a.m with Ricky shrugging.


    "Oh who cares-I mean, oh no." Ricky sighed, wanting to taste more of Raven, but when he saw her face, her gaze downcast, he immediately changed his tune.


    "Ricky, you said that you wanted to make a difference and this is how you do it." Raven seriously spoke, squinting her eyes while Ricky held up his hands in surrender.


    "I know, I just want to you to be the bun for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich-"


    "Ricky~" Raven gasped, slapping his shoulder as he laughed but relented.


    "Fine, but I want you there when I totally kick ass." Ricky caressed her cheek as she bit her lip.


    "Why are you making that face-"


    "Ricky, I-I really want to believe you and I want to see you change the future for mutants but I really have to get back-EPPP!" Raven tried to wiggle her way out, giving her blessing to see if he could alter the future, only for Ricky to scoop her up and place her on the table.


    "Ricky, stop~" Raven moaned softly, her body arching as his finger traced along her skin.


    "Say you''ll stay~" Ricky whispered against her ear, his lips leaving a trail of hickeys down her neck as she moaned again.


    "I-Ah~"Raven gasped, wanting to deny him, but Ricky slid into her, his cock filling her completely as she was enveloped by him once more.


    "Say you''ll stay." Ricky continued to whisper, as Raven held him tightly, her moan escaping once again.


    Over and over, Ricky made love to Raven, each movement drawing out a constant stream of moans from her lips.


    "I-I''ll stay~" Raven huffed out a moan, Ricky hovering over her as he caressed her face, pulling it gently toward his own as they shared a deep kiss.


    Five Hours and Forty Nine Minutes Later,


    "WHERE IS HE?!" Marshall shouted, pacing back and forth inside the courthouse.


    "HOW CAN YOU ALL BE SO CALM?!" Marshall snapped, noticing Jake lighting a cigarette while Ricky''s familiars played cards with Asterion.


    "He''ll turn up. He probably went on a bender or something," Jake muttered, clearly used to this by now.


    "GET OUT OF OUR TOWN YOU DIRTY MUTANT!"


    "YOU''RE NOT WELCOME HERE!"


    "DIE, DIE, DIE!"


    Suddenly, the crowd outside erupted, their anger escalating with a torrent of hateful comments, slurs, and vicious remarks.


    "Thank you, thank you, I love you all!" Ricky taunted the hateful crowd outside before bursting through the doors.


    "Who''s ready to win this case!"

 Chapter 126 - 122: Luciano V. Dewey

    Chapter 126: Chapter 122: Luciano V. Dewey


    "You were almost late to your own trial!" Marshall snapped at Ricky, his nerves frayed as the court was set to adjourn in just five minutes.


    "I wouldn''t say late, it''s just that I always prefer to make a grand entrance that leaves everyone speechless." Ricky chuckled, watching how Marshall''s entire face scrunched.


    "In shock or excitement?" Jake asked, trying to gauge what he was going for but Ricky simply chuckled and patted Jake''s shoulder in response.


    "Exactly." Ricky pushed the door open, stepping into the courtroom he intended to make his b*tch as his gaze quickly landed on Chester, who was attempting to stay inconspicuous by the side.


    The reason for his tardiness was simple: he had been trying to figure out a way for Chester to hear everything that transpired in the courtroom without being shooed out.


    "If it isn''t the infamous and disgraced Ricky Luciano. Haven''t seen you since you ran away from home," Dewey said, rising to his feet and turning toward Ricky as the latter responded with a cold, sharp laugh.


    "If it isn''t the infamous and disgraced DA Thomas Dewey. Haven''t seen you since you lost everything you had, including your dignity." Ricky said, his laughter growing louder as he looked down at the smaller man before him.


    "You know, I always thought you were an idiot, but I never imagined you''d be stupid enough to go against the U.S. government," Dewey said, trying to rattle Ricky''s poised demeanor but he only smiled in response.


    "Well, I wasn''t going to at first, but then I wouldn''t be someone who keeps his promises." Ricky said with a shallow smile, taking a step closer and sizing up Dewey.


    "And I always keep my promises." Ricky''s laugh carried a murderous edge, causing Dewey to grit his teeth before shoving past him.


    Sitting at Dewey''s table was Rufus Hawkins, an infamous Texas lawyer notorious for squashing civil rights cases and setting back human equality for profit.


    To many Texans, Hawkins was hailed as a hero, but as he locked eyes with Ricky, he shot him a deadly glare.


    "Dammit, I didn''t think they''d bring Hawkins onto their council," Marshall muttered as he walked in, taking a seat next to Ricky and leaning in to whisper.


    "Let me guess, he''s a big deal?" Ricky asked, side-eyeing Hawkins who wore an arrogant smile while tending to his briefings.


    "Big deal doesn''t even cover it, that man right there has more civil cases thrown out than any other lawyer in the state of Texas," Marshall explained with a sigh, having done an actual law school paper on all the unjust civil cases thrown out, and Hawkins'' cases had a significant portion.


    "ALL RISE FOR JUDGE MASON!" The bailiff shouted, and everyone stood as an old, gruff man wobbled to his seat.


    "Be seated."


    "Hawkins, good to see you," Judge Mason said with a smile, side-eyeing Marshall before putting on his reading glasses.


    "Wow, we are so screwed," Ricky whispered with a playful smile as Marshall turned toward him with a deadpan glare, holding up his hands in response.


    "It was just a joke, geez-"


    "Defendant, your opening argument," Judge Mason said, giving the floor to Hawkins as the lawyer smiled, stepping forward confidently.


    "Your Honor, I stand before you today to address a matter of exceptional legal and constitutional importance. The case at hand involves Mr. Thomas Dewey, whose actions in conducting the search and seizure of Mr. Ricky''s property are now under scrutiny. However, it is crucial to understand the context and the necessity of Dewey''s actions within the framework of our legal system." Hawkins started his opening argument off strong, showcasing that Dewey wasn''t hiding behind his actions but putting the first step forward and really shaping the narrative.


    "First and foremost, I would like to emphasize that Mr. Dewey acted in accordance with the legal and procedural standards expected of any other federal investigator. The search and seizure was carried out with due regard for the warranted doubt of the situation. The nature of Mr. Ricky''s activities, given his status as a mutant, presented a unique and pressing concern that necessitated a swift and decisive investigation. The urgency and potential threat posed by Mr. Ricky''s actions, as perceived by Dewey, justified the measures taken." Hawkins continued, pressing into Dewey''s actions further and then slowly shaping that supposedly unlawful search, into a just cause.


    "It is essential to recognize that Mr. Dewey''s decision to proceed with the search was based on the information and circumstances available at the time. The investigator operated under the premise of safeguarding public interest and ensuring that no immediate threat was posed. To challenge the legitimacy of Dewey''s actions would be to overlook the complexities involved in managing cases that intersect with extraordinary circumstances, such as those involving individuals with extraordinary abilities." Hawkins'' voice hung low, pitying Dewey for having to deal with someone like Ricky and trying to garner some sympathy.


    "Furthermore, any claims of procedural error or misconduct must be weighed against the context in which these actions were taken. Given the nature of Mr. Ricky''s mutant abilities, the search and seizure were conducted with the intent to prevent potential harm and ensure compliance with legal norms." Hawkins stated, trying to set the precedent that since Ricky had powers, he shouldn''t have been left to his own devices but had them checked.


    "In light of these considerations, we assert that the search and seizure conducted by Mr. Dewey were justified and within the bounds of legal authority. The evidence obtained is therefore admissible, and there is no basis to dismiss the case on these grounds." Hawkins furthered his own set precedent, trying to set his narrative to show that Dewey had no choice after learning Ricky was a mutant.


    "We respectfully request that the court acknowledge the exceptional nature of the situation and uphold the validity of the search and seizure carried out by Mr. Dewey and propose this case be dismissed. Thank you." Hawkins finished his opening argument with a round of applause by spectators behind him, it was only after a minute did Judge Mason hold up his hand, signaling it was enough for now.


    "Accused." Judge Mason finally looked towards Marshall who stood up with a firm expression.


    "Your Honor, while Mr. Hawkins has presented an elaborate defense of Mr. Dewey''s actions, but it is crucial to address the core issue at hand, the violation of Mr. Ricky''s constitutional rights. The argument that Mr. Dewey''s search and seizure were justified due to Mr. Ricky''s status as a mutant is both legally and ethically flawed." Marshall first started his opening argument by picking apart Hawkins, something that is usually looked down upon in this era.


    "Firstly, let us be clear: the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution is unequivocal in protecting all individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures, regardless of their status or abilities. The rights guaranteed under this amendment do not and should not be subject to exceptions based on an individual''s identity or extraordinary circumstances. Mr. Dewey''s actions must be scrutinized against this fundamental standard." Marshall forced that narrative that Hawkins conjured to the light, showing him as not a man on a pedestal but someone under the same banner of their constitution.


    "Mr. Hawkins suggests that Mr. Dewey acted with due diligence and in response to an urgent situation involving Mr. Ricky''s mutant abilities. However, the legal threshold for conducting a search and seizure remains consistent: it requires a valid warrant and probable cause. Mr. Dewey''s actions in this instance, as we contend, did not meet these requirements. There was no warrant obtained, and the so-called urgency was not substantiated by lawful grounds for bypassing constitutional protections with a probable cause that Ricky was simply a mutant." Marshall pressed, showing how drastic Dewey''s actions were under this banner and how they violated all the rights he was trying to uphold.


    "This claim, this declaration that Mr. Dewey''s actions were justified due to the nature of Mr. Luciano''s abilities set a dangerous precedent that undermines the principles of justice. Allowing such a justification would not only disregard constitutional protections but also create a scenario where individuals could be subjected to invasive actions based on subjective determinations of threat." Marshall''s smile rose, watching Hawkins scrunch his brows since this was what they were after and the man was going to press this wound of his argument until he squealed.


    "Furthermore, the procedural errors in Mr. Dewey''s conduct, specifically, the lack of a proper warrant and adherence to legal protocols, cannot be overlooked. These errors are significant and warrant a full examination in a trial setting, where the facts and circumstances can be thoroughly reviewed and adjudicated." Marshall emphasized these points, showing that Dewey''s actions needed to be assessed.


    "In light of these points, we respectfully assert that the case should proceed to trial. The issues at hand involve fundamental constitutional questions that merit a full and fair examination in a court of law. To dismiss the case at this juncture would be to deny Mr. Ricky the opportunity to seek redress and hold Mr. Dewey accountable for the alleged violations of his rights." Marshall almost insisted, knowing that this case couldn''t die here and was willing to slit his wrist if need be to get this case to trial.


    "We urge the court to reject Mr. Hawkins'' attempt to obfuscate the issue and allow the case to proceed to trial and thank you." Marshall squeezed out his last opening argument but it wasn''t met with any applause, but a sigh from the very judge presiding over them.


    "Boy, be honest with me, do you really want to go to trial here?" Judge Mason said, removing his reading glasses and turning his gaze to Marshall.


    He knew he couldn''t legally dismiss the case, as the evidence presented was far too overwhelming to ignore.


    "The good, honest people don''t want you here, America doesn''t want you here, and if you go through with this, you''ll just be putting a target on your back," Judge Mason said, offering his candid advice.


    "Settle here with the good man Hawkins, boy. You won''t win-"


    "Objection!" Ricky laughed out, unable to hold himself back any longer as Marshall''s eyes almost popped out of his head.


    "RICK-"


    "Overruled, sustained-" Ricky, saying all of the lawyer''s words he knew, continued to laugh as Marshall tried to pull him down as if he was going crazy.


    BAM


    BAM


    "Order, order! What is the meaning of this?" Judge Mason demanded, clearly caught off guard. He had never been interrupted in such an unusual manner, and Ricky only laughed harder in response.


    "Is there something funny over there Mr. Luciano?!" Judge Mason almost demanded, about to put Ricky in contempt for his rash words.


    "I''m sorry your honor, but when you said to settle here, I just thought it was time to joke around and-" Ricky began, his confrontational tone clear as he prepared to continue however, Marshall quickly saw where this was heading and stepped in, trying to intervene before it escalated further.


    "Ricky, please!" Marshall screamed in a whisper, watching the Judge''s face visible contort and contrast.


    Cough


    "What I mean to say was that I got carried away from being in a courtroom for the first time." Ricky rolled his eyes at his own excuse, watching Judge Mason''s face become red as he pointed his gavel at him.


    "Another outburst like that and I''ll hold you in contempt." Judge Mason warned Ricky who nodded absentmindedly, looking at Dewey snickering at him by the side like a schoolgirl.


    "Judge Mason, we don''t want to settle," Marshall said firmly as Judge Mason raised an eyebrow, his hand hovering over the gavel, before he finally picked it up with scrunched brows.


    "Then the Case of Luciano v. Dewey will proceed to trial, jury selections will transpire tomorrow unless an agreement can be made."


    Bang


    Judge Mason banged his gavel, and everyone stood as Ricky turned to Dewey, offering a simple smile before walking away.


    "Mr. Luciano, a word?" Hawkins called out, catching up to him with a smile while Ricky glanced at Marshall, who shook his head in warning.


    "Sure, why not,. Ricky laughed, seeing Marshall simply sigh as they followed Hawkins and a furious Dewey into a separate room.


    "The government has prepared a settlement offer that we think will satisfy both parties." Hawkins said, opening his briefcase while Dewey was seething to the side but managed to reign himself in.


    Ricky raised an eyebrow, thinking this was the best time to send a verbal jab or two at him but Marshall started first, standing up in disbelief.


    "We will not be settling-"


    "Boy, you better watch that lip when speaking to me," Hawkins warned, glaring at Marshall, but the latter wasn''t intimidated in the least.


    "And yours is gonna have a gash in it if you keep speaking like that to my attorney," Ricky shot back, leaning back in his chair as he wasn''t about to let Hawkins disrespect Marshall.


    But it wasn''t because he respected him or anything, it was simply because Marshall represented Ricky.


    In a sense, Marshall reflected aspects of himself due to his representation, and Ricky wouldn''t tolerate an insult like that, not to someone who stood in his corner.


    "I apologize." Hawkins forced out a smile, handing Ricky the settlement as he took the paper with a raised brow at the number.


    "You''re kidding." Ricky asked incredulously, waving the paper in the air as he looked at Dewey.


    "This is it, you''re just going to give up-"


    BAM


    "I am not giving up, but looking toward the vested interests of my country, something you wouldn''t know anything about." Dewey hissed, slamming his hands on the desk in frustration.


    The contents of the settlement were as follows:


    Dewey would relinquish his positions within New York and any of his associates would be transferred out


    Ricky would receive 2.5 million dollars.


    But the document essentially outlined that the government would allow Ricky to have control over New York, offering him a payout with only one catch: Ricky would have to publicly retract his previous statements and apologize to the U.S. government.


    "I suggest you consider it, since it''s the best you''ll ever get." Hawkins said, standing up and buttoning his coat as he left the room, followed by a seething Dewey.


    "This is a good deal." Ricky surprisingly let out, actually taken aback that they were willing to offer him something.


    "You''re not considering it, are you?" Marshall laughed out, only to realize Ricky was serious.


    "I am-"


    "YOUR WHAT?!" Marshall screeched, eyes wide in disbelief, as Ricky casually stretched his arms, rubbing his neck while raising an eyebrow.


    "Listen Marshall, the only thing that really bothers me isn''t the treatment I''ve received but the fact that they want me to apologize which I''m still wondering if I want to do-


    "BUT, THEY, YOU-" Marshall interrupted him, struggling to find a sentence in the spiral of words flowing out of his mouth.


    SIGH


    Marshall let out an aggravated sigh, pacing back and forth and rubbing his chin in frustration while Ricky tilted his head, watching him for a moment before casually starting to pour a drink.


    "Marshall calm down, why are you acting as if me considering the settle is the end of the world-"


    "Because this isn''t a victory Mr. Luciano, it''s placate for covering their losses, we can win this, we can-"


    "Marshall, you came to me and basically begged me to hire you, assuring me you''d get the government to cough up their piggy bank and you did just that," Ricky shrugged, leaning back in his chair as he took the drink into his hand.


    "With this settlement, I''ll get good privileges when I go back to New York, and it saves me the hassle of dealing with the U.S. government," Ricky relaxed, savoring the thought since after taking down Dracula, he hadn''t had a single break, and this deal promised a much-needed reprieve.


    However, Ricky hadn''t made a decision on the settlement yet as he was taking his time, really analyzing the offer, which was something Marshall couldn''t understand.


    The wheels were clearly turning in Ricky''s mind, but Marshall couldn''t wrap his head around why he was giving it so much thought.


    "But this can be so much more, Mr. Luciano. You can be so much more!" Marshall said eagerly, sitting in front of him as Ricky sighed, setting his drink down and leaning back in his chair.


    "Listen-"


    "No, you listen to me," Marshall said, putting his foot down as Ricky suddenly laughed, amused by how passionate Marshall was about this, and simply gestured toward him, giving him the floor.


    "Every. Single. Day. Mutants are getting chased out of their homes and having the lives they built, brick by brick, turned to ash for simply being who they are." Marshall''s voice was heavy, speaking from his own experience and trying to form a bridge with his words to connect with Ricky.


    "And they''re scared, frightened, of fighting back against a society that punishes them for simply existing but you-..........your not afraid of standing up to the big guy in fact, you have the power and arrogance to take on the government and a smile in times of distress." Marshall pointed at Ricky, his expression one of genuine amazement.


    "You just have this knack for drawing attention towards you, making it so that people can''t look away even if they despise you." Marshall explained, watching firsthand Ricky revel in the hateful slurs of the public and laugh at all their insults.


    "You were born to be a leader, Mr. Luciano you were born to bring change." Marshall exaggerated, needing to draw RIcky into this idea of what this case could be.


    "And if there was ever a time for you to bring change, it''s right now." Marshall insisted, his voice rising with fervor.


    "The stars have aligned, bringing a case that is actually winnable into the hands of someone who''s not afraid, who''s not scared of the consequences." Marshall''s breathing grew heavier, and his passion poured out, his eyes locked on Ricky as if trying to make him see the gravity of the moment.


    "Mr. Luciano if you just-"


    "Alright, Marshall, I''m going to stop you right here." Ricky smacked his lips, setting down the glass of neat bourbon with a soft clink.


    "You''re getting all worked up over a single consideration, I''m not taking the offer but looking over it-"


    "But that''s how they get you-"


    Crack


    The table suddenly splintered, the sharp crack echoing through the room. Marshall flinched, eyes widening as Ricky''s hand released its grip, revealing a deep indentation in the wood.


    His anger was reaching its breaking point, and the air in the room thickened with the intensity of it.


    "Stop interrupting me. Once or twice is fine, but I''m annoyed with it now." Ricky''s voice was steady, his eyes narrowing as he spoke as Marshall quickly ducked his head, a nervous tension settling between them.


    "Listen up, cause I''m only gonna say this once," Ricky said, his tone sharp as he leaned forward.


    "I''m a selfish guy, Marshall. If I ever do something good, it''s because it benefits me in some way. My interests come first, always. I don''t think like you." Ricky drew a firm line between them, making it clear that if Marshall was going to represent him going forward, he''d need to understand the rules.


    "I''ll admit, I did have some other plans for this case and it''s the reason I''m not accepting this settlement outright, but mostly because of the apology thing." Ricky''s eyes darted back to the paper, almost annoyed that they wanted him to actually apologize.


    "But this can be monumental for you, this can make you an icon, I can make you-"


    "Oh come on Marshall, don''t think that I don''t know you''re using me as much as I''m using you." Ricky laughed, annoyed at his countless speeches that were riddled with lies.


    It was one of the reasons Ricky wasn''t taking his words seriously, because his words weren''t genuine.


    From his lie detection skill there was obviously something Marshall wanted from this, and because of that, Ricky couldn''t bring himself to take him seriously.


    Sigh


    "Yeah, you''re right, I did come to you with a different reason and I apologize for not being truthful with you from the start." Marshall sighed heavily, clenching the hat in his hand before looking up.


    "I''m from Harlem, Ricky." Marshall finally started speaking about himself, about his truth to Ricky who simply sat there.


    "Growing up, I always wanted to help people, I wanted to make a difference, but I soon realized that this world was unfair, how cruel it really is for someone like me." Marshall decided to lay it all out, showing Ricky everything he was as a man.


    "Injustices, hate, and all the suffering I witnessed with my own eyes, watching as people were treated as lesser simply because they had a little more pigment in their skin than others." Marshall looked down, pausing for a moment and then looking back up.


    "I realized, from a young age, that the only way to stand up for yourself was to beat your oppressors at their own game." Marshall''s voice rose, showing the passion laced in between each syllable.


    "But even when I rose up, educated myself, I was always told that I''d be nothing but a negro with a briefcase." Marshall gritted his teeth, his hat crumbling under his own grievances.


    "Even when I rose to new heights, achieved good grades I was still told that graduating high school, then college, and then law school now made me an educated negro, and it infuriated me." Marshall said, setting his hat down on the table before standing up and pointing at Ricky.


    "I know you don''t care, and I know you''re only looking out for yourself, but I see something different in you." Marshall''s eyes fixed on Ricky with a mix of hope and conviction, as if he could see a side of Ricky that no one else could, a side capable of something more.


    "I see a man who returned a club back to its roots and even opened up a bank for the common black man." Marshall said, his eyes filled with hope while looking at Ricky who had a plain expression.


    "I see someone who looks at another not for what they are, but for who they are, in a time that is common to look down at another for being lesser because they are different." Marshall continued, trying to spur any emotion out of Ricky but he simply stared at him.


    "Even now, even then, when I came to you and you looked at me, you don''t see some negro, you just saw Marshall, a man who just wanted to make a little bit of difference in this world through the world of law, you saw me." Marshall gripped his hands tightly together, feeling as if his words were falling on deaf ears.


    "You''re right," Marshall admitted, his voice steady but tinged with a hint of vulnerability.


    "I wanted to take this case so that I could use it as a precedent for other legal battles on discrimination, especially since your mutant abilities intersect with civil rights issues." Marshall confessed, showing his real intentions on this matter as Ricky still remained silent.


    "This case could be bigger-no, it will be bigger," Marshall continued, his tone firm and passionate.


    "You have the power to say no to the money and become the difference." Marshall said, his voice growing more intense.


    "You can be the figure that kids, kids who didn''t choose who they are, look up to, someone they can see and think, ''That''s what I could become.'' Ricky, you can be the change." Marshall explained, unable to hold back his excitement if this case actually pushed through.


    However, Ricky simply looked at him, not uttering a single word as Marshall slowly gazed down, interpreting the silence as a sign that Ricky wasn''t convinced.


    Sigh


    "Could you-....could you at least give them your answer tomorrow, for me?" Marshall asked, his voice softening. Ricky sighed but nodded, the agreement made simply to end the conversation.


    "And Ricky." Marshall continued, pausing at the door and slowly looking back


    "Even if you do take that deal, and even if you are a mobster, I still can''t help but respect you for coming farther than most people would." Marshall gave his final remarks and walked out of the room, leaving Ricky alone with his thoughts.


    "What do you think?" Ricky looked to the side, Chester flapping his wings and arriving at the table.


    "It is a good deal, and considering you''re in enemy territory where a single civil case has never won against the county, it might be the best you''re going to get," Chester remarked, offering his honest opinion.


    "But the reason it''s such a good deal is because they''re scared of what you can do, but in the end, the choice is yours." Chester then furthered his own opinion, giving his last words before Alexander puffed out his furry chest.


    "Ricky, my comrade, a battle is only as notable, as memoriable as the lengths its generals are willing to go, remember that. Alexander said, standing proudly on Chester''s back as the two familiars flew out of the window soon after, disappearing into the horizon.


    Ricky leaned back in his chair, fingers drumming lightly on the armrest as he stared at the sheet of paper before him.


    He wasn''t one to back down from a challenge, but this deal was the very reason he had come all the way down here.


    Sure, the idea of becoming a symbol of change had its appeal, but Ricky was a mobster first, a mutant second and a sliver of a doubt that wondered if he could even win.


    He''d never been one to question his abilities, not since that fateful encounter with Dracula, the only time he''d ever felt truly uncertain of himself.


    But accepting this deal felt like running away, like surrendering to a system that had always been stacked against him.


    All day long, Ricky sat in that room, the silence pressing down on him as he studied the paper in his hands.


    His mind raced, torn between the temptation of the deal and the feeling that it would be a surrender of everything he stood for.


    Ricky found himself lost in thought, reflecting on the parts of himself that had grown up in a world that often seemed indifferent and for the first time, he wondered what the future would hold for his children.


    He''d always been indifferent to hate, people''s opinions never bothered him.


    But then, there were his bastards, the little rugrats who clung to his pant legs, the ones who called him ''Dad'' What would life be like for them?


    They''d unknowingly become his soft spots, and he couldn''t shake the thought of how their childhoods would unfold.


    For those who inherited the mutant gene, what kind of challenges would they face?


    And for the ones who didn''t share that trait, how would it feel to grow up with a mutant father?


    It was actually unsettling to think about and honestly, Ricky didn''t want them to feel lesser, didn''t want them to feel out of place or ashamed.


    Instead, he wanted them to grow up proud of who they were, to hold their heads high, no matter what the world threw their way.


    The crowd outside gradually dissipated, leaving only the distant chirping of crickets to fill the silence of the room.


    Ricky sat there, his thoughts heavy, as the quiet stretched on, broken only by the occasional rustle of papers.


    Then, the door creaked open, and the familiar sound of footsteps echoed in the hallway as Ricky''s lips curled into a small smile as the door clicked shut, revealing Raven standing in the doorway.


    "Hey, Tiger, something on your mind?" Raven asked, her voice a playful melody.


    She swayed her hips as she made her way toward him, effortlessly sliding into Ricky''s lap and leaning back with a confident smile, her eyes locking onto his.


    "How did you know?" Ricky asked, his voice muffled as he hugged her tightly, resting his face in the crevice of her neck.


    Raven''s eyes shifted down to the settlement papers, her gaze soft but focused as she felt his tension seep through.


    Raven felt conflicted at that moment since right before her lay the means to squash the trial and keep history on track, but at the same time, the thought of ''what if'' suddenly crossed her mind.


    What if taking this path would change everything?


    What if Ricky''s choice would shift not only their futures, but the balance of power in ways neither of them could predict?


    She couldn''t deny the uncertainty gnawing at her, but she also couldn''t ignore the man she cared for, caught between his ambition and the weight of his decisions until another stream of thoughts entered her mind.


    What if Ricky managed to win this civil case against the government?


    What if this case set a precedent for the future and changed the future in a way she always hoped for?


    "Let me guess, are you here to tell me to take it?" Ricky looked up at the conflicted Raven, his eyes searching hers.


    She turned back to him, her hand gently caressing his cheek, as if trying to soothe the tension she could feel radiating from him.


    "I-I don''t know." Raven spoke quietly, her voice betraying her inner conflict as she hesitated. Ricky tilted his head, puzzled.


    "Isn''t this what your future predictor, or whatever, said? Taking this deal would keep everything as it was, right?" Ricky asked, his tone edged with surprise as he thought for sure Raven would want him to take it.


    She picked up the paper, her fingers brushing over the terms as she glanced down, still uncertain.


    "Everything I do, whether it''s an act of kindness or a gross atrocity, I do it in hopes that mutantkind can prosper." Raven''s eyes grew distant, her gaze hollow as she set the paper down as she leaned back into Ricky''s embrace, staring up at the ceiling, as if searching for some answer in the shadows above


    "But what do I have to show for it? Nothing, I''ve changed nothing and merely watched our kind be wiped out time and time again." Raven gave out an honest answer, confining in Ricky who looked up at her.


    "Sometimes I-.............I think the future is bleak, unforgiving, and I only hold onto it because I''m scared that the present will never change." Raven voiced his fears, looking back at Ricky who pulled her close


    Their lips met again, briefly, a soft and fleeting touch before they pulled away as Raven rested her head on his shoulder, her breath steady against his skin.


    "Then I''ll change it, just for you," Ricky whispered softly into her ear, his words a promise that lingered in the quiet room.


    Raven turned her head, still resting on his shoulder, her gaze meeting his with a mixture of wonder and uncertainty.


    "It''s not that easy, time has a way of correcting itself and even if a future is wrong, the premise remains the same-"


    "Then help me, stand by me as we change it together," Ricky said, his words firm and unwavering as he wanted her by his side, wanted to tie her to this mission as much as she had tied herself to him.


    "You don''t mean that-"


    "You''re right, I don''t." Ricky said, his voice surprisingly sincere.


    "I really don''t care about mutant kind, but I''m willing to change reality if it means you''re by my side." Ricky spoke the words without fully realizing their weight, his passion evident as he looked at Raven.


    "You really like me, don''t you-"


    "I do. How many times do I have to say it?" Ricky whispered, gently caressing her cheek as his heart always beat like a steady drum whenever he saw her.


    "What if you do win, what if the future is even worse." Raven let out her biggest insecurity as Ricky pulled her forehead closer and kissed it.


    "If we fail under the spotlight, and the world caves in on us, we do the only thing we can do; give it the middle finger." Ricky laughed, his eyes glinting in a playful light as Raven pressed her forehead against his, looking at him with a mix of admiration and uncertainty.


    "So, what are you going to do?" Raven asked, her voice soft but curious, as Ricky gently picked her up and walked toward the window.


    "Ride towards tomorrow," Ricky answered with a determined smile, his words carrying weight.


    With a subtle motion, he floated out of the room, Raven wrapping her arms around his neck as they soared through the air, heading back to their house.


    "Then saddle up tiger~"


    Next Day,


    Ricky had never intended to be the change and yet, through his actions and the misunderstandings that followed, he had inadvertently become it.


    People twisted his intentions, clouding the true purpose behind his every move and now, he found himself at a crossroads.


    At some point, Ricky would have to choose whether to continue down the well-worn path of conformity or to stand against the tide of social expectations.


    This wasn''t just a simple decision, it was one that would shape the rest of his life.


    And now, for the first time, as he fully grasped the weight of what lay before him, but he didn''t hesitate this time, finally knowing what he wanted for himself.


    "Mr. Luciano, it is good to see you," Hawkins greeted, offering a firm handshake as he placed the documents in front of Ricky.


    Ricky turned to his left, noticing Marshall''s welcoming gaze, a hint of anticipation in his eyes as he silently acknowledged any choice Ricky made here.


    Marshall nodded, giving Ricky the go-ahead. Ricky took the pen, hovering over the spot that would guarantee him one million dollars. The tip of the pen was mere inches from the paper, but then Ricky pulled back with a gleaming smile covering his face.


    Hawkins raised an eyebrow in confusion, while Marshall''s eyes widened, clearly taken aback by the sudden hesitation.


    "Mr. Lucinao what are you-"


    "It''s obvious but I''m not gonna f*cking sign it." Ricky laughed, purposely getting Hawkin''s hopes up so that he could crush it.


    "Really?!" they both exclaimed in shock, but their tones couldn''t have been more different.


    Hawkins was filled with incredulity, while Marshall''s sounded more like disbelief as Ricky simply shrugged, his expression unreadable as he leaned back in his chair.


    "Yeah, if I sign this, then I''m essentially losing," Ricky said with a casual shrug, his voice steady.


    "And I don''t want to go back to New York with my tail tucked between my legs. I want to raise it high, like a ''f*ck you'' to everyone who ever doubted me." Ricky leaned back in his chair, his gaze unwavering, as Hawkins sat there, utterly flabbergasted, struggling to process what he''d just heard.


    "You do know that if this goes to trial, you''ll be publicly crucified, hated by the general public, and even face threats to your life?" Hawkins asked, his voice tinged with disbelief as he glanced over at Marshall, who, to his shock, had an excited smile playing across his face.


    "And you even hired a negro, A NEGRO, to take your case in a place that still lynches!" Hawkins began laughing hysterically, his words dripping with contempt and Ricky, however, merely shrugged, unfazed by the outburst.


    "I''m not scared, Marshall are you scared?" Ricky showed his intentions, turning to Marshall and asking for his as the attorney smirked.


    "No, I am not," Marshall replied calmly, turning to the defense attorney with an unwavering gaze.


    "And my client has already turned down this proposal, your honor. We will be taking this to trial." Marshall then turned to the silent judge, who, after a brief pause, slowly removed his glasses, his expression unreadable.


    "Then by the state of Texas, I, Judge Smith, see the claim and accept it." The judge nodded firmly, standing up from his seat.


    Hawkins, however, wore an expression of disbelief, his mouth slightly agape as he processed the unexpected turn of events.


    "Judge this is ludicrous-"


    "I apologize Hawkins but my hands are tied on this matter, the law is the law and I have to uphold it in this case." Judge Smith''s neural tone rang out before his gaze turned to Ricky.


    "You know the government won''t stop until it buries you, until I bury you." Dewey pointed a finger, his voice laced with venom.


    Ricky smiled, unfazed by the threat, and with a calm, almost amused expression, he turned and walked out the door, the sound of his footsteps echoing in the tense silence.


    "Oh, I know, but when I win and trust me, Dewey, I''ll win," Ricky said, stopping and turning back to face the serious Dewey and Hawkins.


    "I''ll be untouchable."


    The next morning, the Texas papers printed something unimaginable, a headline that spread like wildfire across the globe. Men and women of all kinds stopped in their tracks, staring in disbelief at the bold letters that stared back at them.


    ''Ricky Luciano: The Mutant Who Takes on the System.''


    It was a story that defied expectations, one that no one saw coming, and yet, everyone would remember.


    News spread like an uncontrollable blaze, from the crowded streets of New York to the farthest corners of the world.


    People, regardless of nationality, background, or allegiance, began to learn the name Ricky Luciano, and it left a mark on their minds, as if they''d been struck by lightning.


    Lucky looked at the newspaper and smiled, his old view of Ricky completely shed as he set the paper down with a proud grin, the shift in his perspective clear as day.


    "He finally decided to take a step forward, atta boy."


    Meanwhile In a secluded part of scandinavia,


    Rachael wore a small smile as her hand gently traced the picture of Ricky, her fingers lingering on the image before she looked down at her protruding stomach, a wave of warmth filling her.


    ''Good luck, Ricky."


    Sitting at the dining table, Raven rested her head on her hand, watching Ricky make breakfast with a smile, her gaze softening as she admired the moment.


    ''He''s really doing it.'' Raven thought, watching Ricky with a mix of disbelief and admiration as she had taken his earlier words as the boastful ramblings of an arrogant man, but now, for the first time, she might''ve judged him wrong.


    In her whole life, Raven had always believed that mutants could only survive by banding together and fighting against humans.


    But Ricky had just done something entirely different as he wasn''t just challenging the status quo; he was taking on the very notion that mutants didn''t deserve a place in this country, in this world.


    ''I guess I''ll have to stay for a little while longer, to see how it plays out.''


    Papers were quickly printed and distributed all across America, filled with slanderous remarks.


    They landed at the feet of one community after another before hatefully thrown into the nearby alleyways, their harsh words seeping into the streets, fueling the growing tension and division.


    But it was in these damp, dark alleyways that hands reached out, slowly dragging the headline deeper into the shadows.


    Mutants from all walks of life saw the paper, each one drawn to it with a shared understanding: they all remained in the shadows.


    From those with fins protruding from their skin to those who had concealed their powers their entire lives, they each gazed at the paper in silence, feeling a spark of something they hadn''t allowed themselves to hope for in years.


    Hope filled their eyes, a spark igniting in the hearts of mutants across every age range. It didn''t matter how old they were, or where they came from. The only thing that mattered was the bold words staring back at them, offering something they had never dared to imagine, validation, a future where they might finally belong.


    Meanwhile in a darkened room,


    "You called us from all around the world for a simple piece of paper?" A man scoffed, his arm highlighted by a red armband that bore the Nazi symbol as he threw the paper aside, the image of Ricky''s sleazy smirk mocking him from the page.


    "This Ricky Luciano is a public mutant who is about to make history, and he isn''t even a member of the Hellfire Club." A woman wearing white pointed out, her voice sharp and resolute as the man scoffed, clearly unimpressed.


    "History? He''s just like all the others and is only going to get himself killed. It''s not time for us to move when I''m so close to unlocking the mutant gene." The man insisted, his voice tinged with frustration. The woman couldn''t help but scoff in response, her eyes narrowing.


    "A birdie told me he''s the Black Knight," a woman dressed in all black spoke, her voice calm but carrying a weight of mystery.


    Instantly, all eyes in the room shifted to her, drawn by the enigmatic aura that seemed to hang around her.


    "That''s impossible, the black knight is-"


    "On leave from the church." The woman continued, her words carrying an undeniable authority.


    "If this Ricky Luciano is not only a mutant but a mutant with high status, then the White Queen is right." Her statement hung in the air, leaving little room for dispute as the man slowly averted his gaze, the weight of her words sinking in.


    "Then what do you suggest?" Another man from the side curiously asked as the woman smiled.


    "Then what do you suggest?" another man asked from the side, his tone laced with curiosity as the woman smiled, a knowing glint in her eyes as she leaned forward.


    "I suggest we watch the show." She picked up the paper, her fingers brushing over the bold words, her black eyes gleaming with a mix of intrigue and anticipation at what they read.


    ''Ricky Luciano: The Mutant Who Fights Against America''s Way Of Life.''


    Author''s Note: never wrote about court stuff before, tell me how I did and as for seeing your comments. I''ve decided to get drunk, play games, and listen to REO speedwagon so I''ll look at them tommorrow.

 Chapter 127: Chapter 123: Judge & Jurors

    Chapter 127: Chapter 123: Judge & Juror''s


    ?


    A week later,


    When a claim for a case is accepted by the judge and its respective state, it marks the beginning of a meticulous process that serves as the backbone of the justice system.


    Contrary to popular belief, a trial doesn''t immediately start when the case is accepted, even if it is outright like Ricky''s.


    Instead, the legal machine we call our justice system shifts into motion, navigating a labyrinth of preparatory steps designed to ensure that justice is carried out to its proper procedures.


    Among these, one of the most significant and meticulous stages is the selection of the jury.


    The jury, a group of citizens tasked with deciding the case''s outcome, is a cornerstone of any case or judicial process and yet, assembling this panel isn''t simply grabbing random people like straws.


    It is a delicate balancing and thorough act that requires the careful consideration of both practical and ethical factors that each side, being the accused and defense, take into consideration.


    Before the courtroom fills with the murmur of arguments and evidence, lawyers and legal teams engage in what might be described as a chess match in which the board is the courtroom, the lawyers are the players, and the jurors are the pieces.


    The law declares that anyone is innocent until proven guilty, a statement that is meant to safeguard fairness and protect the accused.


    But, in the realm of jury selection, this ideal is tested by the skill and cunning of the lawyers who wield their questions and challenges like chess pieces in play.


    In reality, the winner of this game often has the upper hand in determining the trial''s outcome, for the composition of the jury; its perspectives, biases, and capacity for


    impartiality, can shape the trajectory of the entire case.


    However this process begins with the summoning of potential jurors, often drawn at random from voter registration or driver''s license databases.


    These individuals, notified through formal summonses, represented a cross-section of the community which Ricky now found himself gazing at through his very window.


    Seeing first hand what kind of representation this community had as they all gathered outside his current residence, their picket signs raised high, each bearing slogans that shouted how much they hated him in such vivid colors that would leave people impressed at their coordination if it wasn''t filled with hateful slurs.


    "Ugh, I knew I should''ve taken the million bucks," Ricky muttered with an aggrieved sigh, taking a slow sip of his drink as his gaze drifted out the window, blatantly ignoring the officers seated across from him.


    "As we were saying Mr. Luciano, we''ll escort you out the back-"


    "The back?" Ricky repeated, glancing over his shoulder, his brows furrowed in skepticism as the chief of police met his gaze with a firm nod of assurance, his expression unwavering. "Yes, it is dangerous out there-"


    "Are you kidding me? These guys?" Ricky frowned, gesturing toward the window just as a rotten tomato splattered against the glass, perfectly punctuating the officers point.


    "They''re just a bunch of chihuahuas; all bark, no bite," Ricky scoffed, dismissing the officer with a wave of his hand, his demeanor radiating confidence and a clear lack of concern.


    CRASH


    Then, as if the timing couldn''t have been more perfect, a brick crashed through the window, landing with a dull thud before rolling to a stop between them.


    Their eyes followed its path, drifting down to the brick and then back up to meet each other''s gaze, a shared silence speaking volumes.


    "Listen, I made this case a big deal because I wasn''t afraid, and I sure as hell ain''t backing down now and let me tell you, a couple shards of glass isn''t even gonna scratch me." Ricky said with a dismissive yawn but Marshall had a reluctant expression, still staring at the brick that had the n-word and mutant written all over it.


    "Marshall, let''s go," Ricky ordered, gesturing toward the door as he yanked Marshall out of his seat and began walking out without hesitation, leaving the officer staring in surprise at his abruptness.


    "MR. LUCIANO YOU CAN''T JUST-"


    "Can''t hear you, I''ve already made up my mind!" Ricky called out, his voice carrying as he descended the stairs, ignoring the chaos around him while everyone rushed to catch up.


    Ricky strode confidently toward the double doors, which swung open with a forceful creak. As he stepped outside, the crowd gathered in front of his house fell silent, their expressions filled with nothing but utter contempt and yet stunned to a silence.


    The surprise of his sudden appearance seemed to momentarily still the air, as if even their anger had been momentarily caught off guard by Ricky''s boisterous confidence.


    "Good morning, my fellow Americans!" Ricky boasted loudly, spreading his arms wide to welcome the onslaught of hatred.


    His voice rang out, cutting through the tension, until a flash suddenly erupted, momentarily blinding him and unfreezing the crowd in place.


    An anxious photographer, waiting patiently at the side, seized the moment, capturing a shot that would be displayed in history books in school.


    But the flash of his camera set off a chain reaction, prompting the other photographers around him to snap their own shots in quick succession.


    "YOU FCKING MUTANT SCUM, PIECE OF LOW LIFE TRASH! GO BACK TO THE SHT HEAP YOU CAME FROM AND STOP RUINING OUR WAY OF LIFE!"


    "I HATE YOU, MY WIFE DOESN''T LOVE ME AND IT''S ALL YOUR FAULT!"


    "THE LORD IS ON THE SIDE OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE AND THE PEOPLE WANT YOU GONE!"


    Flashes erupted from every direction, and insults were hurled at him from all sides, turning the scene into a media frenzy.


    Despite the barrage of negativity, Ricky stood unfazed, basking in the chaos as if it were all part of the show.


    "They love me, they really love me!" Ricky said in a heartfelt tone, obviously mocking the crowd before him which all became red faced in fury at his taunting.


    "DAMMIT, HOLD THE LINE!" The chief barked, his voice cutting through the tumult.


    The officers scrambled into action, rushing forward to form a barrier, desperately trying to keep the seething crowd at bay.


    "Let''s go, Marshall." Ricky slung his arm around Marshall''s shoulder, grinning as more flashes erupted around them.


    Posing for the pictures that would one day be synonymous with civil rights whether America liked it or not, Ricky''s sleazy smile stood in sharp contrast to Marshall''s worried, stubborn expression, capturing the tension between them in a single frame.


    "You''re crazy," Marshall whispered, his voice barely audible as he gazed around, his eyes darting from the jeering crowd to the flashing cameras.


    The oppressive weight of the chaos seemed to close in on him, every movement and sound making the air feel thick, as if it might swallow him whole at any second.


    "That''s why folks love me," Ricky laughed, giving Marshall a playful pat on the shoulder as someone began to push their way through the crowd.


    The noise swelled around them, but Ricky''s confident, almost carefree demeanor never


    faltered.


    "Love?" Marshall scoffed, gesturing toward a nearby sign that read ''Die Devil Die'' in bold,


    angry letters.


    "They love to hate me, don''t they?" Ricky countered with a smirk, his tone dripping with


    sarcasm.


    Marshall glanced around, surprised as a reporter quickly scribbled in his notebook, clearly having found a headline in the moment.


    Meanwhile, a man weaved his way through the picket line, his eyes focused as he reached into his coat, drawing an unsettling silence from those nearby before reaching into his coat. "THIS IS FOR AMERICA!" A fanatical man screeched, his voice trembling with intensity as he leveled a gun directly at Ricky''s head.


    The crowd froze, the air thick with tension, as the sudden shift in danger hung like a dark cloud over the scene.


    "GUN-" The chief yelled, trying to rush over to Ricky and bridge the distance only for the lone


    gunman to pull the trigger.


    BANG


    BANG


    Screams erupted, the crowd recoiling in horror at the sight they''d feared but as quickly as the terror had ignited, a strange silence fell over them, broken only by the relentless flashes of


    cameras.


    The shock wasn''t just from the shooter, but from Ricky himself who had, with a calm, almost amused smile, stopped the bullets mid-air.


    They hovered for a moment, suspended in time, before they dropped harmlessly to the ground with a soft clink of metal.


    "Sorry, buddy, but bullets aren''t enough to whack me," Ricky laughed, his voice full of mockery as he shoved a terrified Marshall forward as the police rushed in, quickly


    apprehending the man.


    "FREAK!"


    "MONSTER!"


    The hate continued to pour from the crowd, their chants and insults a constant barrage as


    Ricky made his way to the car and with a casual wave of his middle finger, he acknowledged them, his smirk never wavering.


    Marshall, still shaken, followed closely behind, his eyes darting nervously as they both


    climbed into the vehicle.


    As the doors slammed shut, the sound of the crowd''s fury seemed to fade, but the tension lingered in the air, a reminder of the storm that had just passed.


    "Alright Marshall, it''s your turn."


    Later in the courthouse,


    HUFF


    HUFF


    "Breath, you''re doing great." Ricky said half-heartedly, looking at his watch as Marshall was


    crumpled near a wall while breathing into a brown paper bag. "Could you at least pretend to be sincere?" Marshall asked, his voice shaky, his face sweaty


    and pale from the tension as Ricky glanced at him, shaking his head with a slight chuckle.


    "Not after that whole speech you gave me yesterday, I expected you to have more bravado than this. I mean, I know gerbils with more guts than you," Ricky laughed, his voice dripping with a light mockery as Marshall slumped against the wall.


    "Well, I''m sorry, unlike you, it''s my first time being shot at," Marshall jabbed back, his voice tinged with frustration and Ricky let out a light-hearted laugh, shrugging nonchalantly. "Good point, but still, pull yourself together." Ricky replied, still grinning Dewey walked in


    from the side with Hawkins.


    "Oh look Hawkins, it''s tweedle dee and tweedle dumb-"


    "Eh, try again," Ricky interrupted, making a buzzing sound with his mouth, mocking Dewey''s


    attempt at an insult.


    "You little-"


    "Eh, I''m taller than you short stack, try again." Ricky interrupted him once more, the buzzing sound echoing as Dewey scrunched his brows.


    "Nothing? Alright, my turn," Ricky grinned, leaning in as Dewey hatefully squinted his eyes.


    "What do you call a cow with no legs? Ground beef. What do you call a cow with one leg? Lean beef. What do you call a cow with two legs? Yo mama." Ricky laughed at his own joke, clearly


    amused by himself and even stooping as low as Dewey''s mama would when she got on her knees from 9-5 everyday.


    "You see how I didn''t interrupt you there, that''s how a professional acts," Dewey spewed out, showing his professionalism only for Ricky to laugh right in front of his face.


    "More like a professional scrub, you''re the bottom of the barrel at this point and everyone


    knows it." Ricky laughed louder, unable to help himself as Dewey had no legs to stand on to even meet his gaze.


    "And yet, it was enough to cast you out," Dewey took a step forward, his voice laced with a bitter satisfaction, reminding him of his hand in that decision as Ricky looked down at him, unfazed, his smile still firmly in place.


    "And yet, it still wasn''t enough," Ricky''s tone turned murderous, though his smile never


    wavered as he''d have dumped Dewey''s body into a shallow grave if he didn''t want him to suffer first.


    "God, you''re still the same. You think that just because you''re in the limelight it makes you


    important, but it''s not," Dewey laughed, wiping his mouth as if Ricky hadn''t changed a bit as he still saw the same kid from three years ago, the one who didn''t know better. "Do you know how many mutant scum have done what you''re doing? You''re nothing but a


    cheap knockoff of their real efforts." Dewey continued, his words biting but Ricky''s smile only grew wider at this provocation, his eyes glinting with unspoken amusement.


    "If anything, I''m the upgrade." Ricky chuckled, his tone full of quiet menace, daring Dewey


    to say anything more.


    "Let''s go Dewey, we have a case to win." Hawkins interjected, patting Dewey''s shoulder and pulling him away as Ricky watched him leave.


    "Hold onto that hope Dewey, it''s just gonna be more enjoyable when I crush it right in front


    of you!" Ricky called out behind him, Dewey turning his sight forward and looking back at


    Marshall. "Get up and get in there, you have to crush Hawkins so I can laugh in Dewey''s face." Ricky yanked Marshall to his feet, the man taken aback before looking dumbfounded at him. "That''s not how jury selections work-"


    "Then lawyer that sh*t up and conjure a victory." Ricky unreasonably said, pushing him


    forward as now it wasn''t about simply winning at the end, but torturing Dewey throughout the process and then crushing him.


    Walking into the courtroom, various volunteers plucked from the community stood at the side, awaiting whether they would take part in history.


    The process of approval was a careful one, overseen by both the defense and prosecution


    teams.


    Each juror would be scrutinized, with questions aimed at uncovering any biases, personal connections, or preconceived notions that might cloud their judgment.


    The judge, seated at the bench, would oversee the proceedings, ensuring that the selection


    process adhered to the principles of fairness.


    Lawyers would engage in ''voir dire'', a method of questioning designed to reveal any


    potential conflicts of interest.


    They sought out impartial individuals; ones without preconceived opinions about the case at


    hand or any ties to those involved.


    However what made it important was that both sides had the ability to object to a juror''s inclusion, using challenges for cause if they felt a particular juror would be biased, or peremptory challenges to remove jurors without needing to give a reason.


    It was a process designed to ensure that the twelve men and women who would ultimately


    decide the fate of the defendant were fair and unbiased, according to the law. Seated, the bailiff slowly walked out and positioned himself in the spot where he had been standing for twenty years and uttering the same thing every time.


    "All rise for Judge Mason!" The bailiff yelled and with it, everyone rose to their feet,


    including an uninterested Ricky.


    "Be seated." Judge Mason raised his hand and with it, everyone then sat back in their chairs as


    he settled into his chair.


    "Before we begin the voir dire process, I want to remind each council that this is an essential


    part of the trial." Judge Mason said, offering a quick rundown but his words weren''t directed


    at the lawyers, but at the jurors, who often didn''t fully understand how the process worked as The paused, ensuring his next words were clear.


    "Both parties will both have the opportunity to ask questions to the potential jurors to assess their impartiality." Judge Mason''s words surprised the Juror''s at the side, fidgeting in place and wondering what type of questions they would be asked.


    "But remember, your duty here is to listen, observe, and make your judgment based solely on


    the evidence presented during the trial." Judge Mason continued, his tone steady and firm as he made eye contact with each juror, emphasizing the gravity of their responsibility. "Any preconceived notions, personal biases, or opinions unrelated to the facts of this case


    must be left outside this courtroom." Judge Mason warned, watching the potential jurors nod


    in unison.


    "Proceed with voir dire."


    AHEM


    Hawkins was the first to approach the woman labeled on his briefing as Juror #1.


    In fact, all jurors had their identities concealed and were assigned numbers to prevent any tampering or undue influence.


    The anonymity was essential, ensuring that no one could approach them outside the courtroom or attempt to sway their opinions and as he stepped forward, Hawkins studied the


    woman carefully.


    "Juror #1, do you believe you might have any bias when considering individuals of different


    races in this case?" Hawkins first asked, looking at the blond woman twirling her hair in between her fingers.


    "I wouldn''t say that, I''ve made love to many white and black men-"


    "The defense would deny Juror #1," Hawkins interjected sharply, his voice cutting through


    the room like a knife.


    "Objection, Your Honor. This question is irrelevant to the case at hand and is designed to


    invade the privacy of the juror without any basis for relevance"


    Bam


    "Overruled, Juror#1 you''re dismissed." Judge Mason spoke without hesitation, showing no


    tolerance for the objection and slamming his gavel down on Marshall''s Words. Although Judge Mason had portrayed himself as fair in Marshall''s eyes, the true colors of the


    judge''s impartiality were starting to show.


    Slowly, Marshall rose from his seat, a quiet tension settling over him as he prepared to


    address the court.


    "Juror #2, thank you for being here today. I just want to ask you a few questions to ensure that you can remain fair and impartial throughout this trial. Do you understand the importance of basing your judgment solely on the evidence presented in this courtroom, and not on anything outside of it?" Marshall smiled at the man before him, watching the man scowl at


    him and cross his arms.


    Then, without uttering a single word, his intentions were made painfully clear as the man


    leaned over, spitting a mouthful of dip onto the floor.


    The tobacco hit the polished tiles with an almost deliberate slowness, then splattered onto


    Marshall''s dress shoes, leaving behind an unmistakable stain of saliva-riddled tobacco.


    Sigh


    "The accused would move to deny Juror #2-" "Objection, the juror hasn''t even spoken a word yet and clearly accidently missed his cup."


    Hawkins objected, smiling while looking at Judge Mason who nodded his head. "Sustained, continue your questioning, accused, until something more concrete is proven to deny this juror." Judge Mason easily agreed with Hawkins, Marshall holding in his laugh at the bluntness but kept his professionalism.


    "Juror #2, can you assure the court that you will remain impartial, regardless of any personal


    biases or opinions you may have toward either party in this case, including me?" Marshall words were measured, aiming to draw out a response that might reveal something useful, something that could give him a reason to challenge the man''s eligibility.


    "F*ck you." The man muttered, his voice dripping with disdain. He then deliberately spat on


    Marshall''s suit, the saliva landing with a sickening splat.


    Marshall''s jaw tightened, and he turned to Judge Mason, gesturing towards the Juror while


    keeping himself composed.


    "Juror #2, please be careful where you spit. If you slip up one more time, there will be repercussions," Judge Mason warned, his tone firm as he pointed his gavel at the juror as the man simply smiled in response, unfazed by the threat.


    "Yes, your honor." Juror #2 side-eyed Marshall, clearly mocking him as the man rubbed his


    chin before laughing.


    "Your Honor, I''d actually like to accept this juror on the grounds that he seems like someone


    I''d be friends with, someone who I think would trust me with his ears during this entire trial." Marshall said with a mocking smile, changing his approach and lacing his words in a way that


    they had to be objected to but Hawkins wouldn''t since arguing against his words could lead to an actual denial.


    "This man, right here, clearly knows how to make an impression with his spitting honesty


    that I just can''t help but see us as two of kind-"


    BAM


    "YOU SHUT YOUR F*CKING MOUTH, WE AIN''T NOTTIN ALIKE YOU FUCKING N-" The man socked Marshall right n the mouth, unable to hold himself after seeing the blatant


    comparison of someone he thought was lesser than him.


    "BAILIFF!" Judge Mason, who prided himself on how he maintained his courtroom, was


    enraged that this juror dared to do such a thing.


    The bailiff rushed to yank Juror #2 away from Marshall, almost about to lunge at the lawyer


    currently picking himself but before wiping his bloody nose.


    "Your honor, the accused would move to deny Juror #2." Marshall huffed out, adjusting his


    suit as Judge Mason squinted.


    "Granted."


    BAM


    4 hours later,


    The juror selections proceeded in such a manner that Marshall had to pull out every trick in his


    book just to deny one, let alone accept one, while Hawkins breezed through it with ease.


    Each challenge felt like an uphill battle, every juror seemingly handpicked to stand against


    him.


    It was becoming almost a spectacle, and Dewey''s laughter cut through the tense atmosphere.


    He was standing off to the side, an arrogant grin plastered across his face as he observed the


    proceedings.


    Ricky, on the other hand, leaned back in his chair, his eyes fixed on the jurors with quiet


    intensity.


    So far, eleven jurors had been selected, and out of them all, only four seemed to lean in


    Ricky''s favor after his lie detector had dissected their responses as he sat back in his chair, his


    mind calculating the next steps.


    ''I''ll have to interfere with at least three, five to be safe.'' Ricky thought to himself, not


    bothering to admit it, even internally.


    Ricky wasn''t going to sit back and rely solely on the process, even now he was already


    planning to commit witness tampering.


    Ricky didn''t care for morality so being unbothered by the legalities of this situation wasn''t


    any shocker as all that mattered and was remembered was the result, and at the end of the


    day, it was the victors that wrote history.


    Not the losers.


    However, an anomaly appeared before Ricky, one that left him completely puzzled. Before his


    eyes stood the epitome of white trash, a trailer park hick in the flesh.


    The man wore a Southern flag plastered on his ragged hat, his toothless grin barely concealed


    beneath the grime that seemed to cling to his face.


    A lip full of dip added to the image of a hillbilly plucked right out of the seedy backwoods.


    His appearance, disheveled and foul, seemed to come straight from the muck he''d been


    lingering in for years, yet he stood there, somehow just as much a part of this trial as anyone


    else.


    But the real oddity came in his words, or rather, his lies. Every question Hawkins asked was met with a clear and blatant lie, each one ringing even


    more fiercely than the last in Ricky''s head.


    However Hawkins, clearly delighted by the man''s appearance rather than his responses, used


    this to his advantage, bolstering his case and ensuring that Marshall would have the hardest


    time disproving the juror''s claims.


    It was as if Hawkins had found a goldmine in this man, a willing pawn to solidify his position


    which made Ricky even more confused.


    "Let him in," Ricky whispered, his eyes fixed on the picture-perfect appearance of the man,


    someone who, by all accounts, would despise his very existence.


    "But he-"


    "Do it," Ricky whispered, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips as Marshall facepalmed in


    response, clearly reluctant, but as Hawkins approached his desk, Marshall stood up and still


    hesitated for a moment, then let out a resigned sigh.


    "The accused accepts Juror Number 12," Marshall declared, his words seemingly not


    registering within Hawkins ears.


    "Objectio-huh?" Hawkins, who finally realized what Marshall said, couldn''t help but laugh


    out and look at him dumbfounded.


    "Are you giving up?" Hawkins poked fun at Marshall, the man standing there and thinking


    this was the biggest mistake.


    "Then we have ourselves a jury, gentlemen," Judge Mason announced, striking his gavel


    down onto the table.


    The jurors stood up, one by one, and filed out of the courtroom and as they did, each one cast a


    brief, lingering side-eye at Ricky, their glances filled with a mixture of curiosity and


    judgment.


    "Ricky, are you sure-"


    "It''s a gut feeling," Ricky confessed, his voice calm and collected despite the chaos around


    him.


    Marshall, already drained from the entire process, facepalmed even harder, knowing deep


    down he should''ve expected this.


    "Fine, you better be right."


    The next day,


    "Has it arrived yet?" Marshall asked, his expression tinged with worry as he turned to Ricky,


    who casually drank his water without a care in the world.


    "Yeah, I sent it after you told me. They said I''d get the letter when the trial started, or something like that." Ricky shrugged nonchalantly, while Marshall dabbed his forehead with


    a handkerchief, looking more stressed by the second.


    However, instead of conversing, they found themselves being stared at by everyone in the courtroom, as if they were under a magnifying glass.


    The weight of the eyes upon them felt palpable, each gaze scrutinizing their every move and


    word.


    "Prosecution your opening witness or piece of evidence?" Judge Mason gestured to him as Marshall thought of stalling only for Hawkins to stand up first.


    "Your honor, the prosecution is clearly-........stalling?" Hawkins'' statement trailed off, his words turning into a question as he turned around to the soft sound of a rustling paper. There, his eyes saw the double doors gently being opened as a man adorned in cardinal robes


    walking in with a single letter.


    "Your Honor, I would like to submit my first piece of evidence into the court: a letter from the Pope himself. This official is here to verify the authenticity of my remarks." Marshall stated


    confidently, gesturing toward the man standing at his side. "Objection! The Pope''s words have nothing to do with this case!" Hawkins shouted, his voice sharp with disbelief as he stood, pointing at Marshall with a look of incredulity. "Your Honor, the defense statement stated that Mr. Luciano''s rights were vacated due to


    threats from both the government and God, thus making the Pope''s words valid since he is the voice of God for the globally recognized Church, the Vatican." Marshall countered


    confidently, standing firm in his position.


    He glanced at Hawkins, who looked at him with a mix of disbelief and annoyance, before


    turning his gaze toward the judge.


    Hawkins clenched his jaw, but didn''t interrupt, instead casting a quick look at Dewey by his


    side, silently communicating his frustration.


    Judge Mason''s gaze lingered on the cardinal, who smiled serenely, almost as though he were


    accustomed to such attention.


    "Do you accept these words, Attorney Marshall?


    "Yes-"


    "Your honor, does our defense not have a say-"


    "You''ve already made your opinion clear. Although this is not God''s house, you''ve managed


    to bring God into this, and now you must deal with its consequences." Judge Mason ruled, his


    gaze shifting toward Marshall.


    "The court will accept the letter into evidence, along with the witness." Judge Mason


    gestured toward the cardinal, who smiled and stepped forward. "Greetings, Your Honor, and esteemed members of the court." The cardinal began, his voice calm and measured.


    "I am Cardinal Sebastion, and I am here to read the words of His Holiness."

 Chapter 128 - 124: The Real Narrative

    Chapter 128: Chapter 124: The Real Narrative


    "I am Cardinal Sebastion, and I am here to read the words of His Holiness." Father Sebastion, now Cardinal Sebastion, glanced toward Ricky, offering a brief, knowing wink before turning his attention to the jury.


    "May I begin?" Cardinal Sebastion asked Judge Mason who nodded, giving his approval as the holy man before him smiled.


    Ahem


    "These past few days, many have looked towards Cardinal Ricky Luciano as a man of the devil and someone to be ashamed of, but that is not true. In fact, Ricky is not only a man of faith but a man of god, someone who has been recognized not for who he is but for the man he is, someone who bears the faith and fortitude needed for such a heavy position." Cardinal Sebastian read aloud, his voice steady as Hawkins'' hawk-like gaze never left him, his mind working to find a way to counter this unexpected turn of events.


    "Objection, relevance?" Hawkins finally objected once Cardinal Sebastion reached the end of his sentence, not wanting to interrupt a high ranking member of the church.


    "Cardinal Sebastion, I apologize but you must show relevance to this case, keep that in mind." Judge Mason warned him politely, Cardinal Sebastion nodding and skipping the next paragraph.


    "The claim that Ricky Luciano is a threat to the national interest of the United States can be interpreted as overdramatic but that is a view that belongs to the states." Cardinal Seabstion read, Hawkins not happy for a second and still raising his eyebrow.


    "But to say that his actions go against God is something that I, Pope Pius, cannot let go any further for even a second longer." Cardinal Sebastinon''s words made Hawkin''s eyes shrink, knowing that this letter might actually make his next argument and appeal through the faiths of the Juror''s almost completely null and void.


    "God welcomes all his children into his kingdom." Cardinal Sebastion said, making Hawkins widen his eyes not believing what he would say.


    "And as we are all God''s children, so too are mutants, for the pearly gates of Heaven do not discriminate based on a gene. What matters is the soul of faith, and Ricky Luciano possesses that soul, Sincerely, Pope Pius." Cardinal Sebastian continued, reading aloud at the words made Hawkins freeze, leaving him searching for a rebuttal.


    "Permission to call Cardinal Sensation to the stand." Hawkins grasped at straws, needing to discredit this holy man''s words before a precedence could be set.


    "Granted."


    "Your honor-" Marshall began, but Judge Mason cut him off, raising his gavel.


    "He is a valid witness. Don''t make me put you in contempt, boy." Judge Mason warned sharply and with that, Cardinal Sebastian nodded at the Judge, his smile unwavering, before he calmly made his way to the stand.


    "Cardinal, does the power that Ricky Luciano possess, hold any threat to the church-"


    "Your honor that is-"


    BAM


    BAM


    "I warned you, boy. Do not make me repeat myself!" Judge Mason barked at Marshall, his voice booming across the courtroom.


    Marshall bit down on his lip, the frustration evident on his face, but he had no choice but to sit back down, his hands clenched tightly in his lap.


    "Let me say that again. Cardinal, does the power that Ricky Luciano possess, hold any threat to the church-"


    "Does prayer enlighten a man?" Cardinal Sebastion countered with his own question, his tone calm yet firm.


    "I don''t know father, does it?" Hawkins asked, squinting his eyes only for Cardinal Sebastion to shake his head.


    "A man only knows enlightenment from within, only he himself knows." Cardinal Sebastion spoke his truth, trying to speak towards Hawkins only for the latter to turn towards the jury.


    "So, are you saying that Ricky Luciano would be the only one who could know if he threatened the church?" Hawkins shot back, his voice laced with skepticism as his eyes narrowed as he tried to challenge the cardinal''s assertions through twisting his words.


    "Absolutely no-"


    "And makes Ricky Luciano so special, what allowed for such concessions?" Hawkins interrupted Cardinal Sebastion, repainting the narrative to make Ricky seem entitled.


    "I''m not privy to say-"


    "That''s convenient." Hawkins chuckled, his gaze flickering over to the jury as he turned up the pressure.


    "What makes Ricky Luciano more special than any of us? More special than any one of us?" Hawkin''s voice dripped with contempt, each word carefully aimed at undermining the cardinal''s influence.


    "Objection, badgering-"


    "Overruled. Cardinal Sebastion, answer the question." Judge Mason interrupted Marshall who could only sit back down as Cardinal Sebastion opened his mouth.


    "Nothing, he is a man who possesses power that might be acknowledged by God, but not our savior Jesus Christ." Hawkins spoke first, not even giving Cardinal Sebastion a chance to utter a single syllable.


    "OBJECTION!" Marshall screamed out, finding it absurd to discredit God but use Jesus Christ which even made Judge Mason have to frown at this.


    "Order in the court! Mr. Hawkins, please maintain focus on the matter at hand. Cardinal Sebastion, please answer the question directly." Judge Mason warned Hawkins, squinting his eyes as some juror''s were not pleased with Hawkins choice of words.


    "Your Honor, Ricky Luciano''s powers are not a matter of spiritual significance in the way that our faith measures. His abilities may be remarkable, but they are not relevant to the Church''s mission or doctrine." Cardinal Sebastion clarified, trying to tell them that it wasn''t because he was a mutant but because of the hidden relevance which Hawkins clearly picked up on.


    "So, Father, if Mr. Luciano''s powers are not directly related to the Church, what about them could possibly justify the extraordinary measures taken to elevate him into a position never held by anyone before?" Hawkins turned his hawk-gaze to Cardinal Sebastion, ready to tear him piece by piece until he got the satisfying conclusion he desired.


    "The Church''s concern is not about the individual but about maintaining order and adherence to divine principles." Cardinal Sebastion avoided the topic, knowing that Ricky being the Black Knight was still a secret.


    "Your Honor, if I may interject, this line of questioning is leading us away from the central issue of the case. The relevance of Mr. Luciano''s powers and his position to the Church is being overstated and is not a valid justification for the illegal search and seizure conducted by Mr. Dewey." Marshall immediately interjected, knowing that this was his only chance to shoot down Hawkins after seeing Judge Mason even reprimand him.


    Sigh


    "Sustained. Mr. Hawkins, please return to the matter of the case and the legality of the actions taken." Judge Mason actually agreed with Marshall, leaving Hawkins with a frown but nevertheless continued his clear badgering.


    "Of course, Your Honor. The matter at hand is whether Mr. Dewey''s actions were legally justified. Mr. Luciano''s powers, whether perceived as extraordinary or not, do not override the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution." Hawkins stated, walking around the courtroom and drawing all eyes onto him.


    "With that in mind, I would like to emphasize that while Mr. Luciano''s abilities may be noteworthy, they do not provide carte blanche for the circumvention of constitutional protections. The law must apply equally to all, regardless of their personal attributes or power." Hawkins spoke as if Ricky''s powers were not guaranteed freedom, in fact, he was arguing that because he wasn''t normal that he wasn''t equal in that sense.


    "That in mind, should suspicion not be given to Ricky Luciano if he holds powers that go against the average citizen-"


    "Objection, what defines an average american." Marshall objected only for Hawkins to laugh at it, pointing at the Juror''s.


    "Your honor, the everyday people of America do not wield powers beyond human comprehension, the average American is someone who walks and talks like anyone else, not floating and deflecting bullets." Hawkins had to hold back his laughter, signaling towards everyone except Ricky who couldn''t use any powers.


    "Your honor, it should be stricken from the record-"


    "I''ll allow it." Judge Mason skipped over Marshall''s words, leaving the man almost helpless as Hawkins waltzed back to his table.


    "I rest."


    It was then that Marshall stood up, ready to absolutely destroy Hawkins as he walked toward the stand, all eyes on him.


    "Cardinal Sebastion, how long have you known Ricky Luciano?" Marshall asked, gesturing toward him as he unbuttoned the lower half of his suit.


    "Three years now."


    "And in these three years, what has changed within you?" Marshall suddenly asked, catching Cardinal Sebastin off guard.


    "Pardon me?"


    "I mean to ask, how has your outlook on people changed?" Marshall clarified, seeing that Cardinal Sebastion was confused at how the question was presented.


    "Well, from an early age, I entered the church when I was sixteen and worked as a missionary in Europe for ten years, traveling to multiple different countries and meeting various types of people," Cardinal Sebastion clarified, showcasing his experience and impartiality as he grew up surrounded by different cultures.


    "In those years, what was your opinion about mutants?" Marshall asked, continuing his line of thought as Cardinal Sebastion thoughtfully pondered it.


    "Before Ricky, I''d never truly met a mutant; I''d only heard brief accounts or seen them in those wicked stories," Cardinal Sebastion began, his voice steady.


    "And after meeting him, getting to know him, how did your view change?" Marshall pressed, his eyes narrowing.


    "In my eyes, Ricky is and always will be a child of God, just like any other person," Cardinal Sebastion replied with unwavering certainty.


    "How much has your view on Mr. Luciano''s changed in these last three years?" Marshall finally got to his conclusion, his voice loud enough so that everyone in the courtroom could hear him loud and clear.


    "When we first met, he was a troubled boy who was sent away for being different from others." Cardinal Sebastion looked proudly at Ricky who felt uncomfortable at the warmth of his gaze, no trace of hostility within his eyes that reflected him.


    "Coming to the church, he struggled at first, as most do," Cardinal Sebastion continued, his voice filled with compassion.


    "But God loves all His children, and I truly believe that Ricky found his place within the world through God''s guidance." Cardinal Sebastion paused for a moment, his eyes glancing toward Ricky, who sat quietly, absorbing the weight of the Cardinal''s words.


    "In the end, it is not our powers that define us, but our faith and our actions, and Ricky''s actions were towards his pure faith." Cardinal Sebastion''s gross misinterpretation of Ricky''s actions were on full display as it even caught him off guard.


    "So, you''re suggesting that Mr. Luciano''s transformation was largely influenced by his time at the church and his connection with God?" Marshall continued, not leaving anytime for Ricky to pull himself together.


    "I do, I think the church provided Ricky with a sense of belonging and purpose, allowing him to embrace his faith and find peace within himself while becoming the man he is now." Cardinal Sebastion looked on with a proud smile, happy about the person he saw Ricky becoming instead of the abomination festering within him.


    "And in your view, did Ricky''s mutant abilities play a role in his personal growth or his acceptance within the church?" Marshall then creeped towards his second point, pacing around in place.


    "Not directly, the church''s mission is to guide all individuals, regardless of their abilities or differences. Ricky''s abilities were never a barrier to his spiritual journey. Instead, his personal struggles and eventual acceptance were what truly mattered and that came from within." Cardinal Sebastion voiced his own observations, placing a hand on his heart.


    "You''ve also stated that Ricky is a child of God, just like anyone else. Does this imply that the church, not just you, has made accommodations for mutants or those with special abilities?" Marshall asked, looking at the Cardinal who was thoughtful for a moment before nodding.


    "We are making efforts, extending our love and support to all individuals. While our doctrine remains consistent, we strive to meet people where they are and provide guidance and care to anyone seeking it." Cardinal Sebastion words rang truthful, knowing that he was even making an effort to shed warmth onto the homeless ones he distributes food too.


    "Thank you, Cardinal Sebastion. Your testimony underscores the importance of evaluating Mr. Luciano''s case based on legal principles and ensuring that justice is served impartially rather than relying on God''s and Jesus'' will to determine whether he deserves to be treated like any other man." Marshall sent a subtle jab to Hawkins, leaning back in his seat with a pensive smile as if waiting for this to be over.


    "Thank you, Cardinal. Mr. Hawkins, if you have any further questions for the witness, please proceed." Judge Mason gestured towards Hawkins, giving him the floor but the man held up his hand.


    "No further questions, Your Honor." Hawkins seemed resolute in this but Ricky chuckled at the side, knowing what he was up to almost immediately.


    "Very well. We will now adjourn for the day. Court is recessed until tomorrow-"


    "Actually, I do have just one." Hawkins suddenly stood up, looking at Cardinal Sebastion.


    "Cardinal Sebastion, would you be able to say those same things, everything you said word for word, if Ricky Luciano wasn''t a man of god." Hawkin''s pointed a metaphorical gun at Cardinal Sebastion, using all those sincere words that praised Ricky against him in a split second.


    "Pardon-"


    "I''ll rephrase. Could you keep that same sentiment of Ricky Luciano, your faith in him and all if he didn''t follow god''s doctrines-"


    "Objection, hearsay-"


    "I''ll allow it."


    "YOUR HONOR-"


    "BOY, DON''T YOU DARE RAISE YOUR VOICE TO ME!" Judge Mason yelled at Marshall, his voice booming and forcing the man to shrink in his seat.


    "Cardinal Sebasiton, please answer the question." Judge Mason looked at Cardinal Sebastion who tried to talk but Hawkins walked forward.


    "I-"


    "Would you let Ricky into the confines of your church if you never knew him but knew of his powers?" Hawkins challenged, his eyes narrowing as he leaned forward, clearly intent on discrediting the Cardinal.


    "Would you let Ricky Luciano into your church if he stood so adamantly against you, as he does my client Mr. Dewey?" Hawkins pressed, his voice filled with challenge as he eyed Cardinal Sebastion with intensity.


    "Would you be able to sit against Ricky Luciano, powers and all, and not even think for a mere second that he could be a threat if he had all the powers to do it and none of the faith holding him back!" Hawkins'' voice towered over everything Marshall conveyed, wondering out loud if Cardinal Sebastion could say the same exact things if in Dewey''s shoes.


    "That-I-you-"


    "Actually, your honor, I don''t need an answer, I rest." Hawkins said, stepping back with a smug look on his face.


    His voice dripped with finality as he gestured to the jury, silently challenging Marshall to counter as Marshall, unfazed, straightened his suit and turned to the judge while ready to retort.


    Bang


    "Court is adjourned for the day." Judge Mason banged his gavel, cutting off any words Marshall had been about to speak.


    "Let it go, it''s fine." Ricky whispered to Marshall, his voice calm but firm as he bit his lip, frustration boiling beneath his composed exterior.


    His nails dug into his palm, the pressure grounding him in the moment, but the simmering anger in his chest refused to subside.


    RIP


    At the side, Shadow Broker tore up his last piece of paper, feeling the weight of exhaustion settle into his user''s body as the strain from using his ability wasn''t a joke.


    He needed a day to recharge, as throughout the entire exchange, Ricky had been manipulating everything from the shadows.


    Hawkins may have started playing dirty, but Ricky had been playing dirty from the very beginning, unwilling to let things simply unfold without his intervention.


    Hawkins stood up, a smirk playing on his lips, but Ricky only laughed in his face, the sound cold and mocking as Hawkins faltered, his smirk fading as Ricky turned away, a knowing look in his eyes.


    It was then that he finally saw it, the jurors didn''t wear expressions of certainty that he would''ve thought, but rather those of unease, even pity, as they gazed at Cardinal Sebastion.


    Their discomfort was palpable, their eyes flickering from the cardinal to each other, unsure how to process the clash of faith and law playing out before them.


    "After all of that, after you put everything on the line to spin it your way, they don''t even look like they''re trying to be convinced." Ricky showed his pearly whites to Hawkins, receiving a frown from the man.


    "You know, crushing Dewey''s gonna be fun, but seeing you flail out there like a fish out of water, day after day, even with that crazy bias on your side, is gonna make everything worth it." Ricky chuckled, turning away from Hawkins while subtly mocking him, a sly smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.


    "Father, or should I say, Cardinal Sebastion." Ricky walked up to Cardinal Sebastion, still reeling in from being questioned on the stand in such a way.


    "Child, I am sorry-"


    "Hey, woah, don''t apologize." Ricky chuckled, holding up his hands to stop Cardinal Sebastion who he took to the side.


    Sigh


    "It is just-"


    SIGH


    "It felt even more suffocating than fighting an undead creature of the night." Cardinal Sebastion lamented, Ricky patting his shoulder as they walked towards a nearby bench to sit.


    "But seriously, congrats on the promotion or however it works in the Vatican." Ricky nudged Cardinal Sebastion, the holy man smiling softly before looking forward.


    Although he was always addressed as ''Father'' and adorned in priestly vestments, the Father Sebastian that Ricky had always known was, in truth, a bishop.


    Yet, despite his lofty title, Sebastion had never fully embraced the weight of his ordained role within the Church.


    His heart was too restless, drawn more to the open road and the call of adventure of God than to the stillness of a cathedral.


    That changed with Abraham''s death, the loss was a turning point, shaking something deep within him.


    Coupled with the scandal of Dracula''s influence, a dark Chapter where even members of the Church fell prey to his temptations, Sebastion could no longer stand on the sidelines.


    It was then, with a renewed sense of purpose, that he finally stepped into the leadership the Church desperately needed.


    In truth, the Vatican had been trying to draw him into such a prestigious role for years.


    Father Sebastian''s reputation, both as a scholar and a spiritual guide, had long caught the attention of Rome.


    So when news of his intentions to embrace leadership finally reached them, it was no surprise that Pope Pius himself chose to preside over the appointment ceremony, making the moment all the more extraordinary.


    The Pope can ususally appoint cardinals at his discretion as there is no formal application process; the Pope simply may choose bishops or archbishops from around the world to serve as cardinals.


    Sometimes, priests who are not yet bishops can be appointed cardinals, but they must first be consecrated as bishops which Father Sebastion perfectly fell under as he was consecrated but never took on the title.


    "Well, it is has been a honor to recieve such a grand postion that even now, don''t know if I wholly deserve." Cardinal Sebastion lamented, thinking the Vatican was putting him into to grand of a role too early.


    "Oh come on, you''ll be fine." Ricky assured Cardinal Sebastion, who heaved out another sigh, before they started laughing.


    Being in the courthouse, it was werid for both of them to see how far they have come since in no way could they have anticapted where they are at this exact moment.


    "So, how is Carla and my little bugger?" Ricky asked, watching Cardinal Sebastion smile at this statement.


    It was then that Cardinal Sebastian began to fill him in on how Augustine had taken to feeding all the animals around the church, ever since Garfield had made such an impression on him.


    Carla, on the other hand, was visibly overwhelmed as the shift had been more difficult than she had anticipated, especially when the luxury goods arrived and being pampered in such a way left Ricky unable to suppress his laughter at the description.


    "Actually, child, I had another reason for coming here," Cardinal Sebastian informed him, his tone shifting as Ricky stopped laughing to listen closely.


    "It concerns your inheritance, more specifically, what you are set to receive now that you''ve become the sole heir to the Black Knight family."


    Five days later,


    The next five days unfolded in a blur of relentless questioning, as each lawyer took their turn drilling the witnesses, dissecting every word with precision.


    Marshall''s strategy was methodical, each inquiry designed to peel back layers of deception as he made sure to establish inconsistencies, no matter how small, in every statement.


    His voice was calm but carried an undercurrent of intensity, forcing even the most confident witnesses to squirm under the pressure.


    With every objection he raised, his presence became more commanding even if he was shut down time after time, making his presence seem more undeniable.


    Meanwhile, Hawkins pushed his own agenda with equal fervor, his tone sharp and unyielding.


    He expertly maneuvered the witnesses to make his case seem unassailable, his pointed questions aimed at painting Ricky in the darkest light possible.


    Trying to rattle any and all witnesses used against him, showing how relentless he was while working tirelessly to ensure that doubt was planted in the minds of the jury.


    But a realization had stricken him though it wasn''t immediate, in fact, the notion that he was starting to discover was slow, insidious.


    At first, Hawkins was completely confident, specializing in these types of cases while even being in his home territory, the stars seemingly aligned just for him.


    His questions were calculated, his moves sharp, all designed to subtly steer any train of thought into his favor.


    But it seemed the more he tried to maneuver the flow of the trial, the more he realized something was off.


    It wasn''t just the questions that were being answered, but the thoughts in the minds of the jurors.


    They were starting to shift in subtle ways, as if seeds of doubt were being planted, ones he hadn''t sowed himself.


    It irked him, this frustration gnawed at his heart as he watched, almost helplessly, as the control he had taken for granted was slowly slipping through his fingers.


    What should have been a straightforward, cut-and-dry civil case was actually starting to appear to unravel before his eyes.


    It was then that a sudden shift occurred within Hawkins, having this thought that appeared in his mind that if he didn''t act right now, then this trial would be done for, all while Ricky smiled at the side.


    "I''d like to call Ricky Luciano to the stand," Hawkins suddenly said, gesturing toward Judge Mason as the judge glanced over at Ricky, watching him stand up with a confident smile.


    Ricky walked over to the stand, casting a side-eye at Dewey, who returned his gaze with palpable hatred and Ricky, unfazed, turned to the jury, offering them a warm smile as he settled into position.


    "Mr. Luciano, are you a mutant?" Hawkins asked, his voice sharp as Ricky turned to him, giving a dumbfounded look before shifting his gaze to the jury and laughing.


    "Really, it just depends on the day," Ricky replied casually, causing a few of the jurors to smile but Hawkins, however, shot them a glare, silencing the moment.


    "Mr. Luciano, answer the question," Judge Mason nearly ordered, his tone firm towards Ricky who shrugged.


    "I mean, if that''s what you want to call it then yeah, I am a mutant." Ricky gestured, knowing that there were other names for people like him and it was really up to the beholder on how it was spoken.


    "Then, Mr. Luciano, is it true that you can stop a bullet with your mind?" Hawkins asked again, pacing around the courtroom, his voice rising as he tried to regain control of the situation.


    Ricky leaned back in his chair, maintaining a calm demeanor despite the prosecutor''s pointed question.


    He glanced at the jury, sensing their anticipation, before shifting his gaze back to Hawkins.


    "Yeah."


    "I can stop a bullet with my mind, pretty cool right?" Ricky asked Hawkins who disregarded the last part of his statement.


    A murmur rippled through the courtroom, and Hawkins seized the moment, turning toward the jury with an almost theatrical flair.


    "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, we are not just dealing with an ordinary man here. We are dealing with someone who possesses extraordinary, potentially dangerous abilities." Hawkins pointed his finger at Ricky, making sure all of their eyes were directed at him.


    "Mr. Luciano, have you ever used this ability to harm anyone?" Hawkins suddenly asked, his voice sharp and accusatory as Marshall stood up almost immediately, his hand raised to object.


    "Objection, your honor. The question is irrelevant and speculative-"


    "Overruled, Mr. Luicnao answer the question." Judge Mason pointed his gavel at Ricky, clearly wanting to see where Hawkins was going with this line of thinking as Ricky''s eyes narrowed slightly, the first hint of irritation crossing his features.


    "No," Ricky answered firmly, perjuring himself as Hawkins suddenly slapped his hand on the table, holding up a file.


    "Mr. Luciano, when did these powers awaken?" Hawkins asked Ricky, seemingly unaware of this fact and needing clarification.


    "When I was thirteen," Ricky replied, already knowing where this was headed, as Dewey let out an audible scoff at his words.


    "Eight years ago, a police report was filed about a kidnapping," Hawkins persisted, with Shadow Broker at the side, shredding through paper as if they were about to get raided by the FBI at any moment.


    "Yes, I was almost abducted in the middle of the night-"


    "How many others were abducted in your orphanage?'' Hawkins wondered out loud and Ricky shrugged at these words.


    "I don''t know-"


    "The answer is zero, Ricky was the only one." Hawkins finished his words for him, looking towards the Juror''s who all raised an eyebrow.


    "Mr. Luciano, it says in this police report that you escaped, and the one who saved you was your future adopted father, Thomas Luciano." Hawkins showed the report to the jury, who glanced back at Ricky, who remained calm.


    "Yes, my pops saved my life that day-"


    "But did he?" Hawkins asked, walking over to Ricky and stopping just in front of him.


    "It was said in the report that a faulty explosive went off in the radius, killing your abductors, correct?" Hawkins once again asked, highlighting this clearly fabricated story on his part.


    "Yes."


    Hawkins paused, letting the tension build in the room as he stared at Ricky while the prosecutor''s voice dropped, becoming almost accusatory.


    "And yet, you stand here claiming that your powers never harmed anyone. How do you explain the deaths of those abductors, Mr. Luciano?" Hawkins pressed, his voice sharp as he paced slightly.


    "It was the explosive that killed them, not me." Ricky''s response was steady, though his jaw tightened, a flicker of annoyance in his eyes as he was clearly irritated and Hawkin''s eyes lit up at this reaction.


    "But what if it wasn''t just the explosive? What if, in the heat of the moment, your powers, powers that had just awakened, reacted instinctively? Perhaps you didn''t even know what you were capable of at the time." Hawkins leaned in, locking eyes with Ricky, who stood unwavering, refusing to give any ground.


    "That''s not how it works-"


    "Are you sure? Are you saying that your powers can never hurt anyone or be used in any way to hurt the common people?" Hawkins raised the intensity of the moment, his voice growing louder, as he leaned in closer, trying to provoke a reaction.


    "Objection-"


    "SHUT YOUR MOUTH, BOY! ONE MORE WORD AND I''LL HAVE YOU IN CONTEMPT!" Judge Mason lashed out at Marshall, his voice booming through the courtroom.


    "Mr. Luciano, this is your final warning, answer Mr. Hawkins'' question."Judge Mason ordered, also seeing how this courtroom was playing out and needed Hawkins to have a win for him to be able to sleep at night.


    "It depends," Ricky shrugged nonchalantly, his eyes flickering with amusement as the annoyance simmered away at where he was going with this.


    Hawkins shook his head, disbelief evident on his face as he walked closer to the stand, his posture stiffening with growing frustration.


    "Mr. Luciano, that is not what I was asking-"


    "But that''s not how abilities work, they aren''t cut and dry but complicated and trying to paint it like it''s black and white is idiotic-"


    "Your honor, this is evasion!" Hawkins quickly pointed at Ricky, his voice rising with frustration.


    "Mr. Luciano, answer the question in its intended form, yes or no." Judge Mason ordered, Ricky laughing at how they weren''t even trying to hide their bias.


    "Then yes, if-"


    "Then I''d like to present this as circumstantial evidence." Hawkins held up a paper, handing it to the judge who put on his reading glasses.


    "That is the autopsy report that was recovered that described the scene as a ''gruesome explosion'' but if you actually read the report, the way those five dead doesn''t really match the explosion, it is to gruesome for such-" Hawkins, seeing this opportunity to slander Ricky only for the man sitting on the stand to smile.


    "Objection, hearsay-" Ricky objected, knowing Marshall would be held in contempt as Judge Mason waved his hand.


    "Overruled, Hawkins please continue." Judge Mason gestured to Hawkins, eyes glued to the report and not even realizing it was Ricky who said the statement.


    Truthfully, Ricky didn''t mind Hawkins bringing up those reports as they were all hearsay anyway, meticulously fabricated by Lucky, who ensured every word was bleached clean of anything incriminating and written completely in his favor.


    But the reports weren''t the point, it was that Ricky had walked into this trap with a purpose, and this move tethered to Shadow Broker.


    The Broker''s presence was crucial to the side, a quiet force that tore a slip of paper in his hands, releasing a wave of energy that swirled through the courtroom like an invisible storm.


    The target wasn''t logic or reason; it was something far more potent; sympathy, the kind of raw emotion that could turn tides and win battles without a single argument.


    Ricky turned to the jury, a disarming smile softening his sharp features as their faces knit with uncertainty, brows furrowed as if caught in the gravitational pull of the moment and the thoughts of sympathy furrowed in their minds at that traumatic experience being revealed in such a way, instinctively painting Hawkin''s in a negative light.


    Just as their curiosity teetered on empathy, Hawkins moved, stepping squarely into their line of sight, blocking Ricky''s calculated charm.


    "Mr. Luciano, is it possible for your powers to kill another?" Hawkins asked, his voice sharp with accusation and with that question Ricky chuckled, leaning back in his chair, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.


    "If you were an idiot and you tried really hard, then I guess a mental barrier could kill someone," Ricky admitted, his tone steady but condescending, catching Hawkins off guard since he was sure that he poked at a soft spot.


    The room fell silent for a moment as Hawkins turned towards the jury, expecting a shift in their expressions.


    However, instead of the hate or disapproval he had anticipated, the jury''s eyes were filled with something entirely different.


    The jury''s eyes lingered on Ricky, their expressions caught in a strange mix of confusion and pity.


    Each of them wrestled silently with the inexplicable pull of pity, of sympathy, that had bloomed in their hearts.


    Then their gaze shifted to Hawkins as the lawyer flinched under the weight of their stares, his polished demeanor cracking for a fleeting moment.


    He couldn''t fathom why he was suddenly cast as the villain, painted in such an unflattering light.


    But from the very beginning, Hawkins had been blind, ignorant of the unseen forces weaving through the courtroom, manipulating emotions and perception with effortless precision.


    But even this realization was beyond his grasp since as an ordinary American, a powerless human bound by the limitations of his existence, he clung to the tried-and-true certainties of the world he understood.


    After all, how could anyone begin to fathom something they had never truly comprehended?


    RIP


    Shadowbroker ripped another piece of paper, his gaze fixed on the final juror, who squinted at Hawkins, falling victim to this unforeseen force guiding his very thoughts and perceptions.


    Hawkins, however, maintained his confident smile, trying to hold onto the narrative he was constructing.


    "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury." Hawkins began, his voice steady, though tinged with desperation.


    "Ricky Luciano is fully aware of what he has done, and he is someone who will continue to commit such heinous acts. Do not let this ''accident'' serve as a justification for his actions. Do not let this man continue to flaunt his powers, his position, and his influence over others. He is a threat to society." Hawkins continued to connect Ricky to this crime, but the more he did the more reactions he seemed to get making him bite his lip.


    Judge Mason raised his gaze at this turn of events, his pupils becoming cold and distant as the thought of taking matters into his own hands lingered within his mind.


    "Accused, it is your turn to approach the witness." Judge Mason pointed sharply to Marshall, who stood up, taking a deep breath while suppressing a smile.


    "Mr. Luciano, what was it like growing up as a mutant?" Marshall asked, his tone sharp and Ricky paused for a moment, his expression unreadable, before shrugging nonchalantly.


    "I mean, I never told anyone I was a mutant growing up but I had an alright childhood." Ricky confessed, only having it revealed to the streets after the commission leaked it all around the tri-state area.


    "Let''s focus on that for a moment. Why did you never openly tell people you were a mutant?" Marshall asked, his gaze fixed on Ricky as he leaned back in the chair, his expression casual.


    "There was a certain astigmatism around it. My pops advised me to keep it hidden." Ricky answered truthfully and as his words ended, Marshall raised a finger, signaling for further elaboration.


    "Is it because you were a threat, is it because you are dangerous?" Marshall wondered not towards him, but at the jury.


    "No, it was because the Italian community hated mutants. They were painted as devils," Ricky explained, his tone steady while Hawkins squinted at Marshall, who turned towards him.


    "How did that feel, hiding yourself from everyone and having to lie to others about who you were at heart, lying to those who actually cared about you as you carried on as normal?" Marshall leaned in, placing his hands on the stand.


    Ricky''s frown deepened, even Hawkins and Dewey exchanged uneasy glances, sensing the weight of the question.


    "I didn''t lie and-"


    "But you didn''t tell anyone who was close to you outside your family, right?" Marshall pressed, watching Ricky as he opened his mouth to respond but hesitated, his lips pressing into a thin line.


    In fact, he remembered that the only reason Maria and Alina even found out about it was because the rumor surfaced.


    He hadn''t planned on telling them, but once the whispers started circulating, it became impossible to keep it hidden any longer.


    "No." Ricky was a little shocked at this statement, looking at Marshall who had a serious gaze.


    "And when they found out who you were, what you were born with, the only difference between you and another Italian being a single gene, what did they do?" Marshall asked him, his voice cold as Ricky fell into a brief silence.


    He could feel the weight of the question pressing on him, the memory of their reactions still fresh in his mind.


    Raven, having been in disguise throughout every single day, sat in the stands, her eyes fixed on the proceedings before her.


    She watched with an intense, almost painful focus, her emotions shifting between anger, empathy, and a quiet sadness.


    This was all too familiar to her, she''d seen the discrimination, the fear, the way people turned their backs on those who were different.


    But even as her chest tightened with every word, every accusation, and every dirty trick thrown at Ricky, she couldn''t look away.


    "They forced me out." Ricky''s voice almost broke, the weight of the memory almost too much to bear as he spoke.


    His eyes darkened, remembering the night he had to leave his home, how he ran away after his own community rejected him after everything he did to be like one of them.


    That ostracization, that pain, that feeling of being cast aside, of being forced to walk away from everything he had ever known, hung heavy in the air.


    But those thoughts quickly dissolved, overtaken by the real reason he despised that memory.


    It wasn''t just the event itself, it was the shame of remembering how he had turned tail and fled, abandoning everything he knew the moment the situation became too overwhelming.


    He clenched his jaw, trying to steady himself, but the rawness of the moment was impossible to deny.


    "You were born in New York, raised in New York, and because of a small difference, you were sent away." Marshall''s words hung in the air as he turned towards the jury, his gaze steady and compelling.


    "What did you do next, Mr. Luciano? Did you run away and hide like others of your kind?" Marshall''s words were laced with a sharp edge, his gaze not on Ricky but directed towards the jury, as if to plant the seed of doubt in their minds.


    "Of course not, I set sail towards the Vatican."


    "Why."


    "Because it was bullsh*t, that the reason that I had to leave everything behind was because I was painted as a devil, so I went to the holiest place on earth." Ricky laughed while playing along with Marshall''s line of questioning, finding his own actions back then ironic as he literally went to the one place he shouldn''t have.


    "Then what did you do?"


    "I worked my ass off and became recognized by the Vatican," Ricky revealed, his voice tinged with a mix of pride and defiance as he glanced briefly at the jury, his eyes meeting theirs, daring them to question his worth.


    "It''s hard for me to stand before you, as a black man, in a place where those with pigmentation are still lynched from oak tree''s, I cannot lie," Marshall said, pointing to himself, his voice filled with emotion as he addressed the jury, feeling the emotions uttered with every syllable.


    "All I ever hear about down south is how black men and women are treated like nothing but objects," Marshall said, his gaze falling while also voicing his own pain.


    "When I was a boy, a couple of white kids threw rocks at me whenever I walked to high school, and instead of confronting them, I always just changed my route," Marshall continued, his voice tinged with a mix of bitterness and reflection.


    "Seventy-three times, from elementary to high school, did I change the way I got to school," Marshall bared his heart, his voice heavy with the weight of experience as he faced the jury with one of his deepest insecurities.


    "I ran away, at every chance, and told myself that ''I had to endure'' because that''s what all of us are told to do." Marshall bolstered every word, every syllable as his tone riled upwards.


    "But I regret not standing up for myself, I regret not asking them why they threw those rocks at me, and facing the problem head on instead wasting my seventy three chances." Marshall spoke out towards them, then gestured to Ricky on the bench.


    "But Mr. Luciano did that!" Marshall exclaimed, struggling to hold back tears as he shared a story he''d never told before.


    "He was kicked out of his own home, by his own community, and instead of just enduring and finding somewhere else to go, he went straight to the source of the problem!" Marshall spread his hands wide, his voice rising.


    Raven looked away in that moment, unable to fully relate to Ricky''s experience as the weight of Marshall''s words, however, hung heavily in the air.


    Even at her age, Raven was still running from everything, trying to shape a future she couldn''t even be sure would come to pass.


    "Mr. Luciano went to the Vatican, he worked until he bled, and he was rewarded with an honorary position because the Church saw him as a child of God." Marshall hands gestured wildly, his tone ramping up as his passion seeped into his words.


    "Now I ask you, as the jury, to look at Ricky Luciano and then at me." Marshall spoke out towards all twelve of them, pointing to Ricky then at himself.


    "I am not like him, I can''t just put myself between the scope of a rifle and smile, I''m scared." Marshall put a hand on his heart, showing while telling them how afraid he was even now.


    "But Ricky did and is doing so, so I ask you members of the jury to look at Ricky Luciano''s situation as one in a million." Marshall paced around, stating the barebones of his speech.


    "Because there might be another person like Ricky Luciano, someone brave enough to take on the hate of a nation and fight for the rights he was given, not ordered, at birth. He might be a mutant, you might not like him, you might not even respect him, but he''s an American citizen, and you can''t take that away from him, just like you can''t take away his status of being a mutant." Marshall gestured, as Shadow Broker ripped the last of his paper, and the jury steeled their resolve.


    "So I ask you, the jury, to see Ricky for the man he was born as; a man entitled to the same rights as anyone else born within our great land. And I implore you to grant him the same due process that every citizen deserves." Marshall preached out, raising his words to their highest point before slowly simmering his tone.


    "I rest my case." Marshall poured out everything, knowing that if this wasn''t enough, then nothing would be as he walked back to his chair.


    "Mr. Luciano, please take your seat."


    "We''ll reconvene tomorrow, where the last of the cross-examinations will take place before the jury vote proceeds." Judge Mason announced, banging his gavel as the courtroom emptied and Ricky patted Marshall on the shoulder.


    "I know I''m a little late, but you''re gonna be a damn fine lawyer." Ricky slung his shoulder around Marshall, walking out of the room as Hawkins looked at Dewey.


    It was impossible, it should be impossible and yet, from his experience and the way the jury reacted, there was no denying what he saw.


    At that moment, there was only one thing he could say to the defendant, to the man who he had once promised victory.


    "We''re going to lose." Hawkins whispered to Dewey who looked absolutely shocked.


    "But-"


    "Don''t worry, I have a plan." Hawkins then side-eyed Judge Mason who gave him a subtle nod.


    "GO BACK TO HELL YOU DEMON SPAWN!"


    "NO ONE WANTS YOU HERE!"


    "Ah, it''s like music to my ears~" Ricky chuckled, walking alongside Marshall as they made their way out of the courthouse.


    A car was waiting for them, with Jake behind the wheel, ready to take them to their next destination.


    "How do you even get used to this?" Marshall genuinely asked, getting into the backseat with Ricky.


    He glanced to the side, noticing people banging on the windows, their faces pressed against the glass in a desperate attempt to get his attention.


    "I honestly think it''s hilarious," Ricky chuckled, leaning back in his seat.


    "But I guess I could see it as serious if I couldn''t just, you know, murder everyone here." Ricky shrugged, his light heartedness leaving Marshall almost speechless.


    "Please don''t do that," Marshall urged, his tone serious as Ricky just laughed.


    "Ricky, I''m serious, don''t do that," Marshall repeated, trying to keep his composure, but Ricky only laughed harder, clearly finding the situation amusing.


    Later that night,


    COUGH


    COUGH


    "PUSSY!" Ricky laughed, watching as Marshall coughed up his shot, then stuck up his middle finger in response.


    "Screw you-"


    COUGH


    COUGH


    Ricky laughed, though he wasn''t drinking as he''d promised not only Agatha but also Raven that he''d be more careful.


    Over time, he''d cut back significantly on his drinking and even though his body could easily tolerate more, he didn''t want the unnecessary nagging or constant worry from others.


    Cutting back to just one or two glasses a day seemed like a small enough compromise, but it kept the peace.


    "Things I do for women," Ricky sighed, looking at the glass but setting it aside as he suddenly looked back.


    "Thank you, it worries me when you drink so much." Raven kissed his cheek, and Ricky kissed her back as he stood up.


    "Where were you?" Ricky asked, his eyes narrowing slightly. Raven looked to the side, rubbing her arm.


    "Thinking, for a long time." Raven confessed, her voice soft as she recalled having been walking and lost in thought for the last couple of hours.


    "Boys, I''ll be right back." Ricky waved at them as Asterion, currently asleep, was sprawled on the side with three barrels of Texas whiskey scattered around him.


    "I shall hold down the fort!" Alexander declared, raising his paw into the air with enthusiasm as Chester shook his head but then nodded in agreement.


    Grabbing Raven''s hand, Ricky led her out of the house, his smile wide and his gaze locked on her with a mix of mischief and warmth.


    "What-"


    "What''s wrong?" Ricky asked with a smile, gently parting some of her hair as he looked at her, his expression playful as she chuckled softly in response.


    "It''s just-"


    Sigh


    "Aren''t you afraid of ruining your chances?" Raven asked again, her voice tinged with the weight of her own experiences.


    She''d gone through the same thing as Ricky countless times, always failing and when she did fail, everything around her always seemed to implode, shattering into pieces.


    "Of course not, I''m actually really relaxed now." Ricky shrugged, a hint of amusement in his voice as Raven caught up to him, walking beside him as she glanced over with a raised brow.


    "Shouldn''t you be taking this more seriously, if this fails-"


    "Raven, baby, don''t take life too seriously, you''ll never get out of it alive," Ricky said with a grin, offering his two cents and Raven couldn''t help but laugh, the sound light and freeing.


    "How can you know it will all work out?" Raven asked seriously, pulling Ricky''s hand back as he paused, then gently took her hands in his, slowly starting to dance under the moonlight.


    "No one can prepare you for what you go through, Raven. There''s no way that even now I''m not fully prepared," Ricky said, his voice steady, yet tinged with a hint of vulnerability as he twirled Raven around, and as she spun back into his arms, she looked up at him, her eyes meeting his green ones


    "And if I lose, if it was all for nothing, I''m not going to simply stay down and accept my fate," Ricky said, his voice raw, but determined as he knew Raven would see right through him if he didn''t speak from the heart.


    "Because no matter what the outcome, I''ll still find a way to show my arrogance, my sleazy smile, and when I end up getting knocked down, then I''ll just get back up." Ricky pulled Raven closer, his arms encircling her as she laid her head gently on his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart.


    "I''ve failed so much, Raven. My failures feel endless in my mind, but my successes, hell, I can count them on one hand." Ricky said, even showing his hand that had his fingers locked on hers.


    "But it''s because of those failures that I reached all those successes that changed my life forever. But don''t get me wrong, failure f*cking hurts, it sets you back into this state of hopelessness that makes you want to give up, but it''s not how you fail that defines your success, it''s always how you get back up." Ricky gazed up at the moon, lost in thought as memories of everything he had been through flooded his mind.


    "And I did. It took a while, but I finally won and was able to take a couple steps forward on a journey where I always seemed to be walking backwards." Ricky then turned his gaze back to Raven seemingly lost in thought while looking at him.


    "So no, Raven, I''m not afraid, nor am I prepared for failure. Why would I be? If I do something, I do it because I believe I can win, even when the cards are stacked against me. I want to win." Ricky assured Raven, knowing that if you think you''ll fail then you''ll never win.


    "So, I''m gonna win. It''s as simple as that." Ricky looked down at Raven, who slowly met his gaze, caressing his cheek before gently kissing him.


    Ricky scooped Raven up into a princess carry, carrying her back to the bed with a gentle smile.


    He carefully placed her down, but Raven refused to let go, her hands pulling him closer, their lips met again, this time more tenderly, before they slowly broke the kiss, lingering in the moment.


    "What if I''m a failure?" Raven couldn''t help but ask, her voice tinged with uncertainty as Ricky simply laughed.


    "Baby, if anyone between the two of us is a failure, it isn''t you." Ricky rolled onto the bed, putting Raven on top of him as she sat on his stomach with a frown.


    "And why is that?"


    "Because I''m telling you you''re not, and I''d just hope you would believe my words," Ricky spoke, his voice firm with conviction.


    Raven paused, gazing into his eyes before leaning in and kissing him once again, the warmth of the moment overwhelming.


    "Oh, Tiger, you''ve got such a way with words," Raven smiled, her voice soft and teasing as she slowly removed her shirt and Ricky sat below her with smile widening as only one word escaped his rising lips.


    "Nice."


    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    5 advanced chaps on my paterion /LaughingFiend

 Chapter 129: A Christmas Side Story

    Chapter 129: A Christmas Side Story


    "Grandpa, GRANDPA!"


    "W-What?" Ricky, holding a big mug of his special spiked eggnog, opened his eyes to the litter of his consequences in the form of his dozens of grandchildren and even great-grandchildren.


    However, thanks to the special elixir that left him utterly incapacitated, the very spiked eggnog he had been perfecting over the years, their faces were conveniently blurred.


    "Tell us a story!" One of the grandchildren demanded, the others nodding their resolute heads.


    "Yeah, everyone we know has old grandparents who tell them fun stories, you don''t look old but you can tell a story!" Another grandchild yelled out, the others all nodding in unison.


    "Yeah!"


    "We want a story!"


    "Can I have a sip of your eggnog?"


    "Alright, ALRIGHT!" Ricky pinched the bridge of his nose, his voice towering over them before he took another sip.


    "Uh, then during the war-"


    "NO!?


    "BOOOOOOOOOOO!"


    "We want a Christmas story!" Another one yelled, pointing to the Christmas decorations around them as Ricky leaned his head on his hand in his chair.


    "Man, talk about spoiled brats," Ricky yawned, blinking as he opened his eyes to see his grandchildren, all looking dejected at his words.


    "Ugh, fine-"


    "YEAHHHHHHHHH!" All of them cheered, Ricky gulping down the rest of his eggnog before tossing it to the side.


    "Alright, let me tell you the story of why Santa and his little sh*tstains he calls elves have a long-standing grudge against the Luciano family." Ricky gestured, drawing their attention and pulling them closer to listen.


    "It all started decades ago when I was with my pops, Lucky Luciano."


    ### years ago,


    Before Ricky faced the trial and set out to carve a name for himself, challenging the very institution of America, he first stayed home to celebrate Christmas not only with the family, but with his pops.


    It was Christmas Eve, and a gentle snowfall blanketed the world outside, casting a soft glow over the Luciano estate.


    Ricky and Lucky, caught up in their whirlwind lives, rarely found moments to simply be father and son.


    But this Christmas Eve was different.


    With rifles slung over their shoulders and boots crunching through the fresh snow, they decided to leave behind the chaos of their schedules for a while.


    The world of business and power could wait since tonight, it was just the two of them, the stillness of the forest, and the thrill of the hunt.


    "This f*cking blows." Ricky muttered, trudging through the snow in his hunter''s gear, his breath visible in the frosty air.


    "Well, numb nuts, I didn''t think it would snow this bad." Lucky retorted, his voice laced with sarcasm as he trudged along, his cane sinking into the drifts, a shotgun slung over his shoulder.


    "If you want I can fire this place up and melt it-"


    "No, no, no, no powers, no weird talking animals, and no weird objects you pull out of thin air." Lucky waved his hand, stopping Ricky before he could intervene with nature itself.


    "Just a gun and some old grit, that''s the only thing we are doing today." Lucky waved his finger, watching Ricky shrug and simply follow along.


    Ricky had reluctantly agreed to a no-powered Christmas and hunting trip, honoring Lucky''s wish for a normal, down-to-earth outing without any supernatural interference.


    "Ah, there it is!" Lucky clapped his hands, wobbling up with a renewed sense of vigor as Ricky looked up into the distance.


    Tucked between two towering oak trees, their branches heavy with freshly fallen snow, stood a rustic log cabin.


    It was a recent acquisition of Lucky''s, won in the smoky haze of a card game, a gamble that had paid off handsomely.


    The cabin, with its weathered timber and inviting chimney smoke curling into the frosty air, seemed almost timeless.


    BAM


    Kicking open the door, Lucky threw his gloves over onto the wooden table and rubbed his hands together with an excited expression.


    Lucky made his way to the stone fireplace, kneeling down to start a fire as the crackle of kindling soon echoed through the cabin as flames began to dance, casting a warm glow on the wooden walls.


    Ricky stepped inside, brushing off the lingering chill before pausing to take in the cabin''s cozy interior.


    His eyes wandered over the rustic furnishings before curiosity pulled him toward the small kitchen, where he began inspecting its simple setup.


    "HOLY SH*T!" Ricky yelled, Lucky immediately jumping up in an alarmed state only to hit his head on the fireplace.


    "Son of a bitc-"


    "Moonshine, this cabin has moonshine!" Ricky hopped out from the corner, holding two jars of moonshine with a large smile.


    "Here!" Ricky exclaimed, his excitement bubbling over like a kid in a candy store as he tossed one of the jars to Lucky, already unscrewing the cap of his own with eager hands.


    For Ricky, there weren''t many simple pleasures in life, actually that was a lie but it was the holidays so just go with it.


    One of his undeniable indulgences was savoring unique brews of alcohol, each sip offering a story of its own.


    As he lifted the jar to his lips, a gleam of anticipation lit up his eyes, ready to lose himself in the warmth of something handcrafted and rare.


    "Stop getting your panties in a twist, it''s not like it''s anything to shout over-oh, my god." Lucky scoffed initially, unscrewing the lid of the jar of moonshine but when he tasted it, his eyes widened.


    "It''s candy cane moonshine, I''ve never tasted candy cane moonshine before!" Ricky laughed out, turning back to the other jars before reading the labels.


    "Gingerbread, chocolate-what is this, Christmas moonshine paradise?!" Ricky couldn''t help but find his seasonal joy within these jars, grabbing handfuls of them and putting them in his hunting bag.


    "Is there like a recipe in there or something?" Lucky inquired, Ricky nodding his head but when he went to check, he kept seeing the same name.


    "No, but it looks like some guy named ''Nick'' is behind all this," Ricky said, his tone casual as he examined the jars of moonshine.


    Each one bore the same signature: Nick.


    "Man, this is some good sh*t." Ricky took another sip, smacking his lips before Lucky flicked his head to the side.


    "Well, you can day dream about him later, the deer ain''t gonna hunt themselves."


    Four hours later,


    "Yeah, it looks like someone did that for us." Ricky chuckled, leaning back against the wall of the ground blind.


    For those unfamiliar with hunting, there are two popular methods for waiting on deer: using a tree stand or a ground blind.


    A ground blind is usually the best choice for beginners since for one, it keeps hunters on the ground, eliminating the risks associated with climbing or falling from a tree stand which when your waiting for a deer for long periods of time, the only buddies you have is the guy to your left and the case of beer to your right.


    Second, ground blinds are good at concealing as they provide a sturdy, enclosed space that masks movement, scent, and sound, allowing hunters to stay hidden from deer with minimal effort.


    Lastly, ground blinds are easy to set up and don''t require the same level of scouting or preparation as tree stands.


    However for the last four hours, they had been sitting in their ground blind with literally no signs of life.


    "Damn." Lucky muttered, his head hanging low as a wave of nostalgia washed over him.


    It had been a long time since it was just the two of them, without the weight of towering responsibilities between them.


    Lucky''s mind wandered to the days ahead, knowing that Ricky would soon be buried in trial dates and the pressure of his growing responsibilities.


    Lucky just wanted to make one good memory, something simple yet meaningful that they could remember in the future and laugh about it.


    Although Ricky could be clueless at times, actually most times, even with a slight buzz coming on and four jars of moonshine at his feet, he could see the expression on Lucky''s face.


    "Well, I guess there isn''t anything left to do but drink and wait, what do you say?" Ricky showed a toothy smile, nudging a jar of Gingerbread moonshine to Lucky who laughed before grabbing it.


    "Yeah, I guess it couldn''t hurt to knock back a few jars."


    Too many jar of Moonshine later,


    "No, no way!" Ricky laughed, cackling backwards as he fell to the ground amidst the dozens of jars of moonshine.


    "I swear, by the hair on Mother Mary''s vag, that I boned that old bag and she paid me for it too." Lucky snorted, slapping his knee at his disgusting story before he looked forward.


    "Man, I thought hunting was supposed to be fun but this blows~" Lucky drunkenly sighed, stumbling over to his mounted rifle.


    "Right~" Ricky, also completely wasted, agreed with Lucky who aimed down the barrel of his gun before widening his eyes.


    Through the thickening fog, which seemed to settle both in the distance and within his mind, Lucky squinted down the scope of his rifle.


    At first, it was just a shadow, an elusive shape barely visible through the mist.


    But as his focus sharpened, the figure became clearer, moving with deliberate purpose as his grip on the barrel tightened, his senses heightening, as he tried to make out what, or who, it was in the swirling haze.


    "HOLY SH*T, I THINK I SEE ONE!" Lucky yelled in a drunken whisper, Ricky shooting up to his feet and squinting his eyes.


    "Well, hurry up. I''m starving, and I haven''t had venison since I was in italy!" Ricky drunkenly nudged Lucky, bouncing on his feet with impatience.


    His stomach growled, reminding him that they''d come with nothing but moonshine and no snacks to their ground blind.


    The lack of food was starting to hit hard, and Ricky, already feeling the buzz from the alcohol, was getting more antsy by the second.


    Tightening his grip on the rifle, Lucky steadied his aim as the crosshair swayed, matching the dizzying fog that clouded his mind.


    His focus was strained, the alcohol muddling his clarity, but he pushed it aside as this day had to count, it had to mean something.


    He couldn''t let it slip away, couldn''t let it be another wasted moment between him and Ricky.


    As his finger tightened on the trigger, he knew this was his shot, not just at the target ahead, but at making this day something more than just another hunt.


    BANG


    The gunshot zipped through the fog, almost at the speed of light, its sharp crack swallowed by the thick air.


    The figure, blissfully unaware of the impending danger, was muffled by the mittens covering its ears, its senses dulled.


    But before the shadow could react, the bullet found its mark, slicing through the fog and piercing its throat with deadly precision.


    "A-Arghhhhh~" A guttural, gargling moan escaped the figure, sounding like a dying animal on its last hind legs.


    Lucky jerked his head up from the scope, eyes wide in disbelief as he quickly glanced over at Ricky, his expression unreadable, the weight of the moment settling heavily between them.


    "Holy sh*t, I got it."


    "YOU GOT IT!"


    Ricky and Lucky hugged, knowing that being in this stupid ground blind wasn''t a waste after all.


    "Wait, it''s getting away!" Lucky pointed drunkenly, the figure seemingly limping away only for Ricky to rush to the rifle.


    "F*ck that, I''m getting my venison, TONIGHT!" Ricky yelled out, grabbing the rifle and looking down the barrel as his confident smile extended across his face.


    BANG


    BANG


    BANG


    THUMP


    Three shots were fired in rapid succession, with one after another, tearing into the shadowy figure before its large body collided into the ground.


    "YEAH!" Lucky fist pumped, crawling out of the ground blind as Ricky mirrored this action while jogging up to their kill.


    The figure slowly came into view, its wide smile growing as large as the silhouette in the distance.


    At first, it appeared to be a deer, a shape they were both expecting, a hunter''s familiar target.


    But as it drew closer, the outline began to shift, its form no longer that of an animal as the graceful curve of antlers vanished, replaced by the unmistakable shape of a human.


    The smile, once bright, began to freeze in place, the figure''s features contorting as if caught in some unnatural, horrifying pause.


    Their mouths hung open, locked in an eerie expression, as if time itself had stopped around them.


    "Hey pops."


    "Yeah."


    "You''re seeing this too and not me just tripping out on this moonshine, right?"


    "Yeah."


    "And you''re also not seeing a deer, right?"


    "Yeah."


    "And instead you''re seeing four bullet holes in a guy dressed as Santa, right?"


    Sigh


    "F*ck."


    It wasn''t a deer, nor any animal at all.


    As the figure came into focus, it revealed itself to be a man, lying flat and motionless in a tattered Santa Claus outfit.


    The red suit was torn and ragged, the white fur stained with dirt and blood as his face was pressed against the cold ground, his lifeless eyes hidden beneath the weight of his own body.


    Blood pooled around him, staining the powdered snow a deep crimson which weirdly reflected in his outfit, perfectly matching the color.


    "Well, I''m not gonna forget this Christmas-ow~" Ricky immediately made a joke, only for Lucky to hit him with his cane.


    "Really, right now, really?" Lucky asked Ricky, gesturing towards the dead man they both shot as the latter shrugged.


    "Oh come one, how many people can say they shot Santa Clause-"


    "SLICK!" Lucky yelled, burying his face into his hand in frustration as this evening was completely ruined.


    "Alright, geez, I''ll go get the shovel." Ricky scoffed, turning back to the ground blind as Lucky paced back and forth.


    Looking back at the clearly dead man dressed as Santa Clause, a tag stuck out from his collar with one name: Nick.


    "Oh, f*ck me." Lucky threw his hands in the air, thinking this couldn''t get any worse but realizing that the cabin he won might not have been his in the first place.


    Worst case scenario, in Lucky''s mind, O''l Jimmy Buckets lied to him and gave him the address of a moonshiner, the very same one in which they had drunk all his stock.


    "Got the shovel, where do you want to bury him?" Ricky held the shovel in one hand, looking at Lucky who was in disbelief at it all.


    "Maybe at his cabin, Nick here would probably want that." Lucky sarcastically said, kicking the snow under him as Ricky looked over at the slumped man, then at the tag hanging out, and immediately smiled.


    "Holy sh*t no way, did we just drink this guy''s moonshine and then shoot him. What a merry Christmas he''s having, right, pops?" Ricky cracked, his tone light despite the grim scene as he looked over at Lucky, expecting a chuckle, but was met with a deadpan stare.


    "Okay, Scrooge," Ricky scoffed, rolling his eyes as he dragged the limp man by his hand. Lucky wobbled behind them, his movements sluggish, still reeling from the mix of alcohol and the unsettling mess before them.


    As Ricky dug the hole, the shovel cutting into the frozen earth with a dull thud, Lucky stood watch, scanning the surrounding woods with a sharp eye.


    Keeping his gaze at the distant trees, the fog rolling in, and the stillness around them, just in case any of the man''s ''friends'' were lurking nearby.


    Wiping his forehead, Ricky hopped out of the hole and almost immediately afterward, kicked the Santa Clause lookalike into the hole.


    Ricky didn''t bother with any care as he roughly kicked the Santa lookalike into the hole.


    The limp body slowly draped into the hole, the body tumbling unceremoniously into the narrow grave.


    But instead of falling in, the fat man''s waist was bigger than the width of the hole, making Ricky curse under his breath, slouching down into the hole himself in an awkward, cramped position.


    "God dammit." Ricky muttered, frustration seeping into his voice.


    With a quick, forceful stomp, he shoved the man deeper into the hole, pressing him against the sides.


    Finally, the man was nudged far enough into the hole that Ricky let out a sigh of relief, wiping the dirt from his hands.


    "Hey pops." Ricky got Lucky''s attention, throwing the shotgun that was slung around his shoulder at him.


    Lucky raised an eyebrow, easily catching the shotgun with one hand almost effortlessly.


    "Double tap, just in case." Ricky shrugged, gesturing towards the fat man as Lucky looked at the shotgun then back at the grave.


    Sigh


    "Just in case," Lucky muttered with a heavy sigh, his voice carrying the weight of both caution and frustration.


    He knew all too well that there was nothing worse than being mistakenly buried alive, but at the same time, the entire hunt had spiraled into something he hadn''t expected which made his fingers twitch, the frustration clear on his face as he surveyed the scene.


    Click


    With one hand, Lucky held up the shotgun and pumped it before flicking his cane to the side, aiming the barrel at the body slumped in the grave.


    BANG


    BANG


    BANG


    Three rapid shots rang out from the shotgun, each blast of buckshot tearing into the lookalike''s body with brutal force.


    The man''s flesh shredded under the impact, blood splattering into the air as his form jerked violently with each strike.


    "Now we''re even, now let''s get him buried and get out of this f*cking forest." Lucky was about to turn only for Ricky to throw the shovel at him, smirking while walking back to the cabin.


    "What is this-"


    "It''s the shovel, the same one you''re gonna use to bury that sad sack while I raid Old St. Nick''s liquor cabinet." Ricky laughed, waving along his merry way up the cabin.


    "You''re kidding, Slick, SLICK!"


    30 minutes later,


    "So, we shot Santa-"


    "WAIT!" One of the grandchildren interrupted Ricky, who was in the zone mind you, halting the story all together.


    "You shot Santa?"


    "THE Santa."


    "Like Santa and his reindeer Santa?"


    "I don''t know, maybe if I could get to the juicy part of the story then you wouldn''t berate me with these questions." Ricky drunkenly sniped back at his own grandchildren, clearly not mature enough to be patient with them but instead, combat a childish attitude with a childish attitude.


    "Okay, geez." Some of the grandchildren muttered as Ricky shrugged, munching on a gingerbread cookie.


    "Well, what do you expect, I was really getting into it and you guys completely ruined my mojo, so much so that I don''t really want to continue-" Ricky leaned back in his chair, only for his grandchildren to lunge at his feet, showing him the illustrious puppy dog eyes.


    "PLEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAASSSSSSSSEEEEEEEE!" They all said in unison, almost begging him as a long drawn out sigh resounded from him.


    "Fine, but no interrupting with your questions or I''m gonna pass out on that couch over there, got it?" Ricky warned them, pointing the gingerbread cookie at all their nodding little heads as he got comfy.


    "Alright so like, thirty minutes afterwards were in the car and my pops-"


    "I cannot believe you forced a crippled old man to bury a dead man." Lucky scoffed, looking out the window as Ricky chuckled while turning the corner.


    "Says the guy that shot Santa." Ricky laughed even harder, still tipsy from the moonshine which was stacked high in his rearview mirror which only made his smile stretch in glee.


    "You shot him too-"


    "Yeah, but you shot him first." Ricky waved his finger, hitting the steering wheel as his words halted Lucky in his tracks.


    SIGH


    "Can we just go home, this entire day has been such a waste." Lucky muttered under his breath, watching the snowfall amidst his disappointed eyes.


    Ricky started to say something but couldn''t find the right words at that moment and instead, he simply shut his mouth, knowing that some stupid quip wouldn''t make his pops feel any better.


    They pulled up to the Luciano manor, the grandeur of its fac?ade illuminated by the Christmas lights.


    Ricky stepped out with an air of nonchalance, tossing his keys to a mere grunt as if the man were a valet, while Lucky wobbled toward the door, his cane tapping rhythmically against the stone steps.


    "Pops, wait." Ricky caught up to the stubborn Lucky, slinging his arms around his shoulder while patting his chest.


    "What now-"


    "Thanks for taking me out. I know I can be a little sh*t almost all the time, but I appreciate the effort," Ricky said with a rare, genuine smile as his words, however, seemed to fall short of their mark as Lucky sighed, his expression unreadable, and continued walking forward without a response.


    Sometimes kids don''t understand it, especially when their parents are consumed by work and the demands of daily life, but the reason parents pour so much effort into planning special outings runs far deeper than it seems.


    It''s not just about having fun or creating a long lasting moment for the family album.


    It''s about the quiet guilt they carry, this nagging feeling that their constant absence has left a void within their kid.


    Deep down, they hope that these carefully crafted memories can make up for the moments they missed, the bedtime stories they were too busy to tell, the school plays unattended, or the milestones they had failed to make.


    To them, these outings or plans they make are more than just trips to a theme park or an elaborate dinner.


    They''re an attempt to reclaim something they lost with their kid, to bridge that emotional gap left by their absence.


    It''s as if they believe that a single cherished day filled with laughter and togetherness can somehow outweigh the countless hours spent apart, where work or other responsibilities took precedence.


    Of course, it''s not always a fair trade.


    A child might never fully understand the weight of their parents'' intentions, or why they try so hard to make those moments count.


    It''s sort of this silent promise, one that implies that even when they are not there for you, they care enough to go above and beyond to show how much you mean to them.


    Sigh


    "No problem, night Slick." Lucky forced a half-smile, walking up the stairs as Ricky watched the dejected man who raised him like his own walk up the stairs.


    "Daddy?" Danielle, in her pink pajamas, rubbed her eyes from the side while holding her doll.


    "Hey, sweetie." Ricky flashed a toothy smile as he gently scooped her up, keeping his promise to tuck her in that he made before they went hunting.


    "Why does Grandpops look so sad?" Danielle asked sleepily, her innocent words slipping out with a blunt honesty only a child could muster.


    "He''s just sad that I was the one who got to tuck you in." Ricky chuckled, making a quiet excuse for Lucky before kissing Danielle''s cheek as she rested her head on his shoulder.


    "Okay."


    Meanwhile, Lucky entered his study, setting his ivory cane aside with a soft click before making his way to his desk.


    He dropped into the chair with a weary grunt, his body aching from the weight of the day.


    Reaching for his bottle of scotch, he uncorked it with practiced ease, the smooth amber liquid glistening in the low light as he poured himself a generous drink.


    Grabbing the glass, Lucky''s eyes drifted over the various pictures on his desk.


    Ranging from a framed playing card that was the King of Diamonds to a faded picture of himself as a boy.


    His gaze lingered on the man standing next to him in that photo, a small frown tugging at his lips.


    Without a moment''s hesitation, Lucky downed the entire glass in one smooth motion, the burn of the scotch crawling down his throat.


    He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, the bitter taste lingering, before carefully setting the empty glass back on the desk.


    His eyes remained fixed on the photo for a moment longer before he eventually reached for it, the dust of the frame rubbing against his fingers.


    His fingers traced the edges of the photograph, lingering on the figure beside him and upon closer inspection, it became clear that the man was his own father, Antonio Luciano.


    If you asked anyone, and I mean anyone, in Sicily who had been around when Antonio Luciano walked the streets, you would be met with nothing but resounding applause.


    He was the epitome of what it meant to be a mobster, a man who had started with absolutely nothing except his sheer grit and determination.


    Born from humble beginnings, he had cultivated a family that could only be rivaled by a horde of ghouls.


    Antonio wasn''t just a name in the criminal world; he was an icon, a living legend in the mobster scene.


    But the sad fact was that Lucky barely even knew his father since Antonio was always so consumed by his dream, an unyielding drive to build his family, that he often neglected the very one he had at home.


    The only things Lucky really knew about him were the stories told second-hand by those close to him, each tale painting a picture of a larger-than-life figure.


    While others revered Antonio for what he had built, for who he was, Lucky couldn''t help but loathe him for it.


    He hated the fact that his father''s obsession with constructing a dynasty came at the cost of the one thing that should have mattered most: his own family.


    It was because of his father that Lucky never wanted children as the fear of becoming the same kind of man, driven by ambition to the point of neglecting those closest to him, haunted him for years.


    But then came Ricky who he met by accident, someone who had fallen into his life by sheer chance.


    Yet, that chance encounter ended up being the greatest thing that had ever happened to him.


    Although Ricky wasn''t his blood, he was his son, and that bond meant more to Lucky than any title or position.


    So when Ricky thought of him as his father, it gave him a sense of fulfillment that nothing else ever could.


    It was why he tried so hard to be the father his own had never been to him as he wanted to correct the mistakes Antonio had made onto him, to be the man Ricky needed when growing up.


    But no matter how hard he tried, the shadow of Antonio''s mistakes loomed over him.


    The insecurity, the feeling of never being able to live up to the Luciano name, had always plagued him, creeping into every decision he made and even now, in the quiet moments when he was alone with his thoughts, it still haunted him.


    "Damn." Lucky muttered out, holding the picture against his chest and slowly drifting off into a deep slumber.


    Only for a Christmas miracle to occur, as the hole that Ricky and Lucky had made suddenly erupted with sparkles, slowly floating into the sky.


    It was a sight so surreal, it almost felt like a blessing, an omen that would bring joy and laughter to all the good kids of the world.


    But for the Luciano family, what seemed like a miracle would soon unravel into a disaster as the sparkles that ascended into the sky weren''t a sign of hope for them, but a harbinger of revenge.


    "Oh Luciano''s, you''ve been truly naughty this year." Those words were left as the particles vanished into thin air.


    Slowly, the night turned into day as Christmas morning dawned upon the Luciano manor.


    The mansion, typically cold and imposing, was now filled with warmth and cheer as the family gathered in the grand living room, basking in the glow of the decorated tree.


    Alina, Agatha, and Carla sat off to the side, their faces lit with warm smiles as they watched their children eagerly gathered beneath the tree.


    "Here." Danielle shyly said, almost in a whisper while holding out a present towards Zatanna.


    Zatanna looked up, her eyes wide with curiosity as she tilted her head slightly, her attention fully focused on her half-sister before her face lit up with a wide, toothy smile.


    "Is that for me?" Zatanna gasped, shooting to her feet in excitement. Her jaw dropped in surprise, and she placed both hands on her cheeks as her eyes sparkled with joy.


    Danielle nodded, her own cheeks flushed, and her head ducked in slight embarrassment, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of her dress.


    "YEAH!" Zatanna exclaimed, wrapping her arms around Danielle in an enthusiastic hug.


    Danielle froze for a moment, caught off guard by the sudden embrace, but the joy radiating from her younger sister quickly softened her surprise.


    As Zatanna squeezed her tighter, laughing heartily, Danielle could feel the genuine happiness, the warmth that made her feel appreciated.


    Blushing deeply, Danielle hesitantly returned the hug, her arms slowly wrapping around Zatanna.


    It was hard for Danielle to make friends, and she often felt that weight of nervousness in situations like this.


    So when Danielle smiled hesitantly, her face flushed as that familiar nervous feeling crept in, it was slowly overtaken by something softer.


    There was this quiet pride in her chest, something she wasn''t used to feeling but couldn''t ignore.


    The simple act of her sister''s joy, her wide grin and sparkling eyes, made Danielle''s heart swell in a way she couldn''t quite describe but even so, it was enough to make her lean into the hug, her shy smile blossoming into something genuine.


    "You''re hurting him!" Augustus yelled from the side, rushing to pull Garfield away from Johnny and Moxie''s grip.


    The two toddlers furrowed their brows, watching their toy being taken from them as Augustus gently cooed to the panting Garfield.


    "Demons, all of you!" Garfield yelled, holding Augustus for dear life as his fur stood on ends.


    "You have to pet him like this, like this," Augustus said, struggling to find the right words, but trying his best to show how to be gentle with Garfield.


    Only for his toddler half-brothers to furrow their brows even more, clearly confused by the instructions.


    "Cat, give," Moxie said, holding out his hand, demanding rather than asking while Johnny''s eyes narrowed as he stood up.


    "My toy," Johnny said in a threatening tone, glaring at Moxie as Garfield shrank further into Augustus'' embrace.


    "Manservant, get me out of here!" Garfield yelled, tugging on Augustus'' shirt as he backed away, the toddlers stepping forward with determination.


    TWACK


    "Aye, enough." Marco smacked Moxie on the back of the head, frowning at his little brother''s actions while holding a turkey baster.


    "But cat is mine-"


    "No, he ain''t, and besides, cats aren''t toys, they''re living beings. Don''t be a psycho." Marco said, yanking Moxie''s ear to the side.


    He pulled him away, muttering under his breath about how he didn''t want him growing up to be a psychopath, considering they usually start by hurting animals.


    "Marco, be gentle." Sophie quietly spoke, stopping him and releasing his grip on Moxie who lunged into her embrace.


    "Don''t baby him-"


    "But he is a baby," Sophie pouted, picking Moxie up and holding him against her shoulder as he sniffled softly, but then side-eyed Marco, flashing a mischievous smile at him.


    "YOU LITTLE-"


    "RUN AWAY, MANSERVANT, RUN!" Garfield yelled, his voice filled with panic as he watched the blond toddler demon chase after Augustus, who turned the corner in a hurry.


    "GIVE MY TOY!" Johnny angrily shouted, his face flushed with frustration as Augustus held Garfield close and quickly rounded another corner.


    "NO!" Augustus yelled back, glancing over his shoulder to see Johnny''s eyes flare with anger at the sight of his beloved toy escaping from his grasp.


    "To think, someone like you could create precious things, baffling, almost." Lucky chuckled from the side, glancing over at Ricky and giving his shoulder a playful pat as he leaned back.


    "I just hope they don''t end up like me, honestly." Ricky sighed, his words causing Lucky to chuckle again as he gave his back a reassuring pat.


    "They''re gonna be fine. Just don''t be too much of a little sh*t all the time, and it will work out," Lucky joked, his grin wide as Ricky rolled his eyes but couldn''t help the smile that tugged at his lips as he took a sip of his hot cocoa.


    Soon afterwards, the little ones began eagerly tearing into their presents, their eyes wide with wonder as they marveled at the toys and delightful surprises they received.


    Gasps of excitement filled the air until only two presents remained under the tree but the children, already absorbed in their new gifts, hardly took notice, except for Danielle, who quietly walked over to the last two remaining packages, her curiosity piqued.


    Tilting her head, Danielle read the bold names on the tags: Ricky Luciano and Tommy Luciano.


    "What is it, darling?" Lucky asked, smiling at his granddaughter as she struggled to drag the presents toward them with all her little might.


    "Look." Danielle said, her voice filled with curiosity as she pointed to the names on the tags.


    Ricky and Lucky both leaned forward, picking up the gifts with a mix of surprise and intrigue before their brows furrowed in confusion.


    It wasn''t the gifts themselves that caught their attention, but rather the name on the tags as the five letters came together to form one word: Santa.


    "Real funny, pops, hilarious," Ricky scoffed, rolling his eyes but Lucky''s frown only deepened at his words.


    "This wasn''t me, Slick." Lucky muttered, his tone serious as he opened his own present.


    Both men paused, eyes widening in surprise as at the center of the gift was a large lump of coal, and sprawled across the inside was a message: You''ve been naughty and all you''ll get is coal.


    "What the fuc-" They both muttered only for Frank and Meyer to burst through the door, having ragged expressions on their faces.


    "BOSS, WE GOT A PROBLEM!" Meyer yelled, almost scaring the children as they rushed up to them with an urgent pace.


    "The PRODU-"


    "IT''S GONE LUCKY, IT''S ALL GONE!" Frank pushed Meyer out of the way, interrupting him with his own anxiety as Lucky recoiled in shock.


    "What are you talking about-" Lucky scoffed, thinking this was some cruel joke only for Meyer to throw a brick of product at his feet.


    "What the?" Ricky laughed out, knowing this wrapping and this formation since it should be a brick of cocaine, white as snow and yet, it was ash black.


    Reaching into his pocket, he grabbed a pocket knife and opened the brick only to smell that familiar scent that was currently in the box.


    "What the f*ck, is this-" Ricky said in disbelief only for Meyer to interrupt him


    "Coal powder, it and coal has replaced everything; the cash, the product, and anything we had in storage, all coal." Meyer''s voice dimmed, ashen as the color of the brick as Lucky immediately stood up.


    "Show me." Lucky squinted his eyes, the scene changing to a sight that he would have never been able to describe to anyone.


    In their storages, in every single one that had once held anything valuable, a mountain of coal now sat in its place.


    It was as if everything they had worked for, every precious asset they had accumulated, had been reduced to nothing but a worthless pile of ash and stone.


    "Hey, there''s a letter!" Ricky yelled from the side, his voice cutting through the stunned silence. Lucky''s disbelieving eyes were drawn to the red-sealed envelope resting atop the pile of coal, its presence almost mocking in its calmness amid the chaos.


    Climbing the mountain, Lucky stood at the bottom, watching Ricky reach the summit before he opened the letter as his lips parted as he began to read its contents aloud.


    "I checked my list, I checked it twice, and then, to get even, I checked it two more times. It seems the Luciano Family has been naughty, not nice." Ricky read aloud, his brow furrowing in confusion as he looked around at the others in the room.


    "Christmas only comes once a year, so we have to make it count. To truly get even, we go to where everything evened out." Ricky finished, a sudden realization dawning on him as the look on his face mirrored the one that appeared on Lucky''s, an expression of both understanding and disbelief.


    "Pops, you don''t think-"


    "No, there''s no way," Lucky let out a disbelieving laugh, glancing at Frank and Meyer, who looked at them with confusion in their eyes.


    "Well, there''s only one way to find out," Ricky clicked his tongue, hopping off the mountain of coal and walking up to Lucky as he handed him the letter to which he briefly read it on his own.


    "Meyer, Frank, hold it down until we get back." Lucky pocketed the letter, turning towards the exit with Ricky, leaving the two men speechless.


    "What about this mess? Where are you going? !" Meyer yelled emphatically, pointing to the mountain of coal that filled the room.


    "Some old fat man came to town, we gotta pay him a visit." Ricky couldn''t help himself, reciting the later half of the jingle as Lucky nudged him.


    "Huh?" Frank asked, clearly confused while Meyer rubbed his chin before having this weird expression.


    "Old fat man, you mean-"


    "Santa, pops, we f*cking shot Santa!" Ricky couldn''t believe he was saying it, but the words spilled out as soon as they both got into the car.


    "No, no way-"


    "Pops, we find this random cabin, raid a moonshine cellar filled with all kinds of Christmas flavors, and every single one of them has the name Nick, St. Nick?" Ricky was piecing it together, his words making Lucky grip the steering wheel tighter, his knuckles going white as his gaze hardened on the road ahead.


    "Then the guy we mistook for a deer turned out to be some dude dressed as Santa, and we woke up to all of our stuff replaced with coal, it can''t be a coincidence." Ricky slicked his hand through his hair, his mind racing.


    After everything they''d seen, hell, after finding out Dracula was real, nothing from fairy tales felt impossible anymore.


    Lucky was silent, his eyes fixed on the road as Ricky kept rambling on, going off about how insane the situation sounded.


    It wasn''t until they reached the cabin that their thoughts aligned and without hesitation, they both ran to the hole, the shovel digging into the dirt as they unearthed something buried deep.


    "F*ck~" Lucky cursed, his voice sharp as he pulled the large lump of coal from the earth.


    Just as the weight of the discovery hit them, the unmistakable sound of bells began ringing through the air.


    Ricky nudged Lucky, the older man''s gaze slowly shifting upward to a sight that made both father and son freeze at what should be impossible.


    A sleigh, a real red flying sleigh, appeared in the sky, its eight reindeer pulling it effortlessly through the mid-day.


    The sound of bells rang louder now, and their breaths stilled in awe as it was as if time itself had paused, leaving only the surreal image above them.


    Slowly, the sleigh touched down onto the ground and then, a pair of black boots hit the earth with a firm step.


    The man who emerged from the sleigh was unmistakable, dressed in the traditional red suit, his belly round and jolly, a thick white beard hanging from his chin.


    A pipe rested between his lips, the smoke swirling into the cold air as his squinting eyes scanned the scene before him.


    He looked every bit the Santa Claus they had heard of in stories and now it was confirmed without a doubt in Ricky and Lucky''s mind.


    "Holy sh*t, we shot Santa." They both whispered under their breath, realizing that they both indeed shot and buried the famous Santa.


    Snap


    "Bernard." Santa snapped his fingers, and with a soft rustle, an elf appeared at the side of the sleigh.


    Small and sprightly, the elf wore a green tunic with a pointy hat, his large ears twitching as he approached.


    He held a tightly bound scroll in his hands, the edges of the parchment yellowed with age.


    The elf bowed slightly before handing the list to Santa, who unfurled it with a swift motion, his eyes scanning it with a slight frown.


    "Ricky Luciano, permanent naughty lister." Santa muttered, his deep, gravelly voice cutting through the cold air as he rolled the scroll open further.


    Bernard, standing at attention beside him, squinting at the two with hate-filled eyes, the only other sound being the faint jingling of his boots.


    Santa''s eyes narrowed as he read aloud, his voice taking on an almost mocking tone.


    "Let''s see; murder, stealing, lying, hoarding, all the way down to stealing a little balloon from a child, a mere child." Santa''s lips curled into a half-smile, looking upwards towards Ricky with his squinted eyes.


    "Real classy."


    "Thanks, I take pride in my work." Ricky quipped, shaking his head at these bogus claims as Bernard marched forward.


    "How dare you speak to Mr. Clause like thaaaaaaaaaaaaaat!" Bernard, in his tiny elf form, marched up to Ricky about to sternly lecture him only for the degenerate man to wind up his leg.


    In the next moment, Ricky drop kicked the small elf Bernard all the way back into the sleigh as Santa shook his head, taking out a pen.


    "Kicking an elf." Santa muttered, writing down his actions onto the list before checking it twice, and finally looked towards Lucky.


    "But you Tommy, I had expectations of you." Santa''s words struck something deep within Lucky, looking at him with almost an expression of regret.


    "You were such a kind and wise child, you were such a good boy, what happened?" Santa asked, almost regretting for Lucky at what he had become.


    "Uh, ouch-" Ricky spoke from the side, watching Santa not even check twice to see that he had been a lost cause from the beginning.


    "What happened to Little Tommy?" Santa wondered out loud, trying to reach Lucky who looked to be in reach and yet, so far gone.


    "Little Tommy, huh?" Lucky chuckled, a smile spreading across his face as he noticed the hope rekindle in Santa''s eyes.


    "Yes, what happened to-"


    Santa''s voice trailed off, fading into the background as an old memory resurfaced in Lucky''s mind.


    "Little Tommy, Merry Christmas!" One of Antonio''s mobsters called out, waving at young Lucky and a young Tommy, their laughter echoing in the cold night air.


    "Merry christmas." Lucky nodded to the man, holding a present in his arms as the snow fell across the street, the town.


    "Whatcha got there?" The mobster eyed the present, bending down to ruffle Tommy''s hair and take time out of his day to ask his boss''s boy.


    "It''s a present for my pops." Tommy smiled warmly, holding the present close to his heart as the mobster laughed heartily.


    "Well, I''m sure he''ll love it-"


    BOOM


    In the distance, a terrifying explosion erupted, silencing the mobster''s words as it wiped out all the laughter, all the joy that had echoed through the town.


    The only sound that followed was the chaotic chorus of screams, cutting through the cold night like a dagger.


    "INTRUDERS, INTRUDER-AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" A man''s desperate scream echoed through the air as he tried to warn the others but before he could finish, a grotesque ghoul lunged at him, sinking its teeth into his leg.


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" The ghoul''s high-pitched screech filled the air as it slammed its clawed hand onto the man''s head, crushing it with sickening force.


    His skull cracked open, and his brain splattered across the snow, painting the white ground with a gruesome display.


    "Little Tommy, run!" The mobster yelled, his voice tinged with panic as he shoved the frightened child away.


    Tommy, wide-eyed and trembling, stumbled back, his gaze darting around in terror and without a second thought, he turned and bolted, his small legs carrying him as fast as they could through the snow, his heart pounding in his chest as the nightmare unfolded around him.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    The sounds of his breath came in sharp, frantic gasps, each exhale mixing with the mist that swirled around him.


    His tears streamed down his cheeks, frozen in the cold air, as the horrors unfolded around him.


    The screams of the fallen and the grotesque, monstrous figures looming in the distance blurred together in a nightmare he couldn''t escape.


    People, the very same he grew up with, devoured on the mere streets as the pure white snow was tainted by the crimson carnage of their wraith.


    "MA, POPS-" Lucky cried out, only for the present to drop from his grasp as his knees fell in the snow, the next words catching in his throat.


    The house, the home he once knew with warmth and love, was now nothing but a towering inferno, flames licking the sky in a cruel mockery of everything it once stood for.


    But what shattered him even more than the devastation was what lingered, scattered among the charred remains were bodies.


    His mother, his siblings, were strewn across the ground in grotesque disarray, their lifeless forms marred by bullet holes that left them unrecognizable.


    The stench of blood and smoke hung heavy in the air, but it was the sight of their mangled bodies that seared into his mind.


    His eyes hollowed, the weight of the loss crashing over him like a tidal wave, drowning him in a sea of despair.


    In the next second, a hand clamped over Tommy''s mouth, and his eyes widened in shock at the sudden motion.


    Before he could react, a familiar figure appeared from the shadows, bloodied and battered, yet unmistakable.


    "Shhhhh!" Antonio hissed, pressing a finger to his lips, his other arm tightly wrapping around Tommy to keep him still.


    Despite the blood staining his clothes and the tears staining his eyes, Antonio managed a strained smile, attempting to project some sense of calm.


    But Tommy could see the fear and sorrow behind his father''s eyes, the same fear and sorrow behind his own.


    Without hesitation, Antonio scooped Tommy into his arms, running with urgency as the chaos unfolded behind them.


    Watching as his family burned away under the towering flames before the remnants were buried in the falling snow.


    Antonio ran, his breath ragged, his legs burning from the exertion as he sprinted toward the dock.


    The ship, its sails already unfurled, was ready to depart, but Antonio pushed himself harder, desperate to escape the nightmare unfolding behind him.


    His foot slammed against the wooden planks of the dock, the sound echoing through the tense air as Tommy looked upon Sicily, the place he had once called home, now engulfed in flames.


    Getting into the boat, Anitno placed Tommy down only to gaze back and his pupils to shrink.


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" The horde of ghouls were closing in on the docks, slaughtering all those before them as their path was headed towards them.


    "THERE HE IS, ANTONIO RIGHT THERE!" One of the enemy mob bosses roared outwards, his finger turning towards Antonio about to flee.


    "Tommy, listen to me, listen!" Antonio got on one knee, holding Tommy''s pale andfrighted cheek while the urgency was laced within his face.


    "Don''t ever come back here, never come back to this hell!" Antonio''s voice was cold, detached, as he shoved Tommy away.


    His words were not of love, but of a final command, a warning carved into his son''s soul.


    "Don''t ever come back here, never come back to this hell!" Antonio''s voice was cold and harsh, devoid of love, leaving Tommy with nothing but a warning, a warning that would haunt him for the rest of his life.


    "POPS-" Tommy screamed, his heart shattering as he watched Antonio run back into his certain death.


    He reached out desperately, his hand trembling, but before he could move any further, other passengers yanked him back, holding him tight as he fought to escape their grip.


    The only thing Tommy could do was watch, helpless, as Antonio moved with purpose as his father grabbed lanterns and oil, the kind used to scrub the boats, and began to douse the docks, leaving a trail behind him and with a final, determined gesture, he threw the lantern to the ground.


    The fire spread wildly, its orange tendrils creeping over the wood, but Antonio kept moving, relentlessly laying down more oil as he ran toward the horde without a hint of fear.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH-" Antonio''s battle cry echoed into the night as he charged toward certain death.


    Before the horde surged, crashing onto him like a wave, consuming him whole in seconds with the last thing Tommy saw was the explosion of flames, a burst of fire that engulfed everything in its path, a violent flare that lit up the entire dock, allowing for his son''s escape.


    All his life, he had been called Lucky, but no one ever really knew where it all started, no one knew when he stopped being Tommy.


    As the passengers released their grip on him, the boat sailed farther and farther away from the burning city.


    Little Tommy, the boy who had once known only warmth, looked back at the city now engulfed in flames, a city that had taken everything from him.


    The fire raged in the distance, and with it, his past was swallowed whole, leaving him with nothing but the smoldering remnants of a life that could never be reclaimed.


    The tears slowly stopped flowing down his cheeks, the fear and sorrow gradually being consumed by something far darker, hatred.


    His hands gripped the edge of the boat, knuckles white as his body trembled with the weight of what he had witnessed.


    Christmas was the day Tommy died.


    The day that innocent, naive boy, who once saw the world with jolly cheer, was erased.


    The moment that boy''s soul was shattered and replaced with something much colder, something that would give form to something darker.


    That was the day Tommy''s spirit soured, and in its place, a hardened mobster emerged, the man who now stood before Santa, the man who had become Lucky Luciano.


    "What happened to him?" Santa stood before Lucky, no, he stood before Little Tommy.


    "You wanna know what happened to Little Tommy?" Lucky asked, looking up at Santa without a shred of warmth.


    Reaching into his coat, he pulled out a pistol and pointed it St. Nick''s forehead, pressing into his jolly skin.


    "I killed him, there is no f*cking Little Tommy, only Lucky." Lucky words were cold and harsh, uncaring for the man who showed compassion towards him.


    "Now give me back my f*ck merchandise before I blow your brains out-"


    "I can''t do that." Santa shook his head, uncaring if Lucky shot him since a bullet couldn''t kill him.


    Sigh


    "So, you''re telling me that even if we kill you and put you through the most excruciating f*cking hell imaginable, you still won''t give up what belongs to us?" Ricky asked skeptically, tilting his head as he regarded the mythical figure.


    "Nothing you can do-"


    "Fine, then let''s go." Lucky suddenly said, putting down the pistol as both Ricky and Santa looked on in disbelief.


    "Pops what are you-"


    "If St. Nick over there won''t cough up the merchandise, then every kid and their families are gonna have to pay." Lucky words were cold, unforgiving almost as Santa''s eyes widened.


    "You wouldn''t-" Santa tried to stop Lucky, reaching out only for the mobster to turn around with his pistol still in hand.


    BANG


    Brains scattered amongst the powder white snow, Santa''s body slumping down onto the ground as Bernard gasped from inside the sleigh


    "Y-You shot Santa, AGAIN!" Bernard cried out, tears flowing down his small elf face while rushing towards Santa''s side.


    "Oh come on, if he survived that hunting accident then a shot in the head won''t kill him-"


    "IT''S THE PRINCIPLE, DON''T YOU PERMANENT NAUGHTY LISTERS GET IT!" Bernard screeched at the two, Ricky raising an eyebrow and looking at Lucky already walking back to the car.


    "Get how you stole our product and holding our merchandise hostage-"


    "THAT COAL IS YOUR PRODUCT!" Bernard angrily roared out, his words making Ricky and Lucky''s body halt.


    "It was supposed to be a lesson, Santa wanted you to understand the weight of your actions and feel some remorse so-KUERK" Bernard tried to explain Santa''s deeper meaning though Ricky grabbed the young elf''s neck.


    "Stop with that christmas spirit nonsense and tell me how to turn it back, right f*cking now." Ricky held out his hand, threatening Bernard who wriggled in his grasp before the Ebony blade landed within his palm.


    The blade slowly pressed against the little elves neck, watching it squirm within his grasp as Lucky sighed from the side.


    "Slick, you''re wasting your time, they''re probably just like this fatass here." Lucky kicked the big man in his jolly belly, frowning at how this even happened.


    "Y-Yep, y-you can''t kill us since we''re immortal!" Bernard gulped heavily, his body shaking as Ricky''s expression halted.


    Slowly, Ricky''s gaze shifted to Bernard, whose face grew pale as he noticed the annoyed expression morphing into a predatory smile.


    "You''re lying," Ricky said with a chilling chuckle, his voice cold as the realization settled, elves could die, unlike Santa, who now lay face down in a pool of his own blood.


    "I-you-KUREK!" Bernard tried to say anything, only for his hand to squeeze even tighter.


    "Now, you little sh*t stain, how do I turn the coal back into our product?" Ricky demanded, his voice sharp and unrelenting as the elf''s face turned blue from lack of air.


    "S-Stop-" Santa tried to reach up, his body swirling in the Christmas spirit that made his wounds sparkle with wonder only for a gun to be pressed against his forehead once more.


    BANG


    "KUERK!" Bernard coughed out, tears streaking down his cheeks as Lucky blew Santa''s brain out once more.


    "Do you want to watch us kill Santa over and over again, or are you going to talk?" Ricky asked, his tone icy as he dropped Bernard to the floor, leaving the elf gasping for breath.


    "I-I won''t." Bernard cried out, his rageful face looking up at Ricky filled with hatred since he would never betray Santa, never.


    "Fine." Ricky laughed, rubbing his mouth before slowly backing up while tapping the Ebony blade on his shoulder.


    SPLAT


    Without hesitation, Ricky suddenly drove his sword into Santa''s belly, piercing through flesh and muscle until the blade buried itself deep into the earth beneath.


    "SANTA-" Bernard screeched, trying to reach out only for Lucky to press his foot on his head.


    "Where is our product-"


    "YOU FOOLS, DON''T YOU UNDERSTAND CHRISTMAS MAGIC!" Bernard roared, his little body tensing up as he pulled out a candy cane out of his coat.


    "Obviously not-"


    "You will, you''ll all learn what the Christmas spirit means." Bernard looked up at Ricky and Lucky, their cold gazes looking down at him and his hope without a shred of concern.


    "B-Bernard, don''t-" Santa, with tears at the end of his eyes, reached out towards Bernard making a rash decision.


    "CODE 0001, SEND-" Bernard yelled into his candy cane, speaking out an order only used in drills as Lucky cocked back his revolver.


    "W-Wait-" Santa tried to stop, only to wince as the sword was still pierced in his stomach with his eyes watching the scene unfold before he could finish.


    BANG


    Bernard, a mortal being, had his tiny head explode under the impact of one bullet as Lucky ruthlessly snuffed out his life.


    "Head Elf Bernard, what is that-" A voice spoke from the other side of the candy cane comsat, urgently trying to know more about the situation only for Lucky to bring down his foot.


    CRUNCH


    The candy cane crushed under the weight of his decision, the candy cane comsat crumbling under his foot.


    "BENARD, BENARD!"


    Meanwhile, at the North Pole, an elf spoke urgently from behind a desk, interrupting a celebration meant to honor their successful delivery of gifts to every child.


    The event, a fleeting moment of joy and recognition for their hard work, was to be followed immediately by preparations for the next Christmas.


    At the center of the holiday bash, within the North Village where all the elves resided, stood an enormous Christmas tree, a towering monument that acted as the world tree of Christmas spirit.


    This tree, stretching miles into the sky, bore countless ornaments, each connected to the life force of an elf.


    Suddenly, one ornament at the very top dimmed, its light extinguished in an ominous sign.


    "N-No." the elf stammered, his gaze shifting to the side, joined by all the celebratory elves who turned to witness the horrifying sight.


    The ornament, blackened and devoid of all life and joy, detached from the towering tree and began its slow descent.


    All eyes followed it as it fell, cutting through the festive air, before landing in the snow with a muffled thud.


    The once-joyful chatter and movement among the elves ceased, a heavy silence settling over the gathering.


    Slowly, the elves gathered, a somber hush falling over the crowd as Bernard''s little son stepped forward.


    He dropped to his tiny knees, his green mittens digging into the snow as he gently scooped up the darkened ornament, the extinguished life of his father, and held it close, trembling.


    Nearby, his brother, Bushy, stood frozen for a moment, his breaths coming in heavy puffs that clouded the air.


    The cheer in his eyes darkened, giving way to a simmering hatred and without a word, he turned and bolted toward the control station, his small figure brimming with determined fury.


    Tears fell from his eyes but their was no sadness, only rage as he ran towards the main counsel that was supposed to be for his rbtoehr, and looked toward a button only pressed in drills.


    Bam


    "VOICE AUTHORIZATION AND MECHANICAL AUTHORIZATION CONFIRMED, CODE 0001 HAS TAKEN FULL EFFECT!" A cold, mechanical voice declared, the sound of an alarm bell ringing out as the entire North Village was bathed in a menacing red hue.


    "SANTA HAS BEEN KIDNAPPED!" The voice sounded out, all the elves covering their mouths at this horrifying fact while Bushy took the nearby mic.


    He knew he couldn''t compare to his brother, someone so devoted and loyal to Christmas itself, but right now, he was gone.


    Everyone knew it, but no one could accept it but Bushy would, he would carry on the torch, no matter the weight, and ensure that his brother''s sacrifice wasn''t in vain.


    "I know you''re scared." Bushy''s voice rang out through the elf village, causing even Bernard''s son to gaze up.


    "I-I am too, but right now, Santa needs our help!" Bushy yelled, his tiny hands gripping around the mic as all the elves slowly stopped crying.


    "THERE IS A GRINCH OUT THERE WHO HAS TAKEN A MAN WHO ONLY WANTS TO SPREAD JOY AND LOVE!" Bushy''s voice became passionate, his words forcing the elves off their knees and slowly taking a stand.


    "WE MUST SAVE HIM, WE MUST DO SOMETHING BECAUSE IF WE WONT-" Bushy voice suddenly froze at the picture on Bernard''s desk.


    For as long as he could remember, Bushy had always fallen short in his efforts to be a good elf, constantly mocked for his failures.


    He even thought his brother didn''t care, until he stumbled upon a picture lying among the others on Bernard''s desk.


    It was a photo of Bushy, beaming with pride as he held up his elf degree after passing his exams, a moment of accomplishment he thought had gone unnoticed.


    "B-Because if we don''t, who will." Bushy eyes watered, his voice trembling as his sincerity spread throughout the elf village as that lost hope slowly rekindled.


    "ELVES, TO YOUR BATTLE STATIONS!" Bushy roared, the elves all gripping their tiny hands and rushing out to fulfill their duties, as elves should.


    Across the village, the elves were preparing for a mission unlike any they had ever embarked upon: to save Santa.


    The once cheerful and joyous holiday atmosphere had turned into one of grim determination and urgency.


    Weapons loaded with Christmas spirit, infused with pure holiday magic, were being strategically equipped.


    Guns shaped like candy canes, their barrels shimmering with frosty energy, were mounted along rooftops and in hidden corners.


    These weren''t just ordinary weapons; they were powered by the essence of Christmas itself, designed to harness the magic of the season to protect and defend.


    Reindeer, their coats glistening in the red-hued sky, were draped in ornate armor made of gold and silver.


    The once playful creatures now looked like formidable steeds, ready for battle.


    The armor they wore shimmered with enchanted snowflakes and holly, each piece carefully crafted to protect them from any attack.


    They would carry the elves into the heart of danger, ready to face whatever it took to rescue Santa.


    In the village square, elves were gathering in groups, donning their battle gear, some wearing helmets adorned with jingling bells, others clutching swords imbued with Christmas magic.


    They had trained for years for a moment like this, but none had imagined that they would ever face such a dire situation and with Santa''s life on the line, they were prepared to risk everything.


    A crowd of onlookers, the non-combatant elves, silently observed the scene, their eyes wide with a mix of fear and awe.


    The murmurs among them grew quieter as they parted to make way for one elf, one brave elf.


    Clad in his own battle gear, Bushy walked through the crowd, his figure and his expression resolute.


    The helmet adorned in jingle bells, once a symbol of the battle elves department he thought he could never qualify for, now sat firmly atop his head.


    In his hand, he gripped his Christmas sword, its blade gleaming with the spirit of the season.


    With steady steps, Bushy walked toward a reindeer, its majestic form draped in golden armor, reserved only for commanders.


    "Uncle Bushy?" Bernard''s little son stepped up with teary eyes, holding the darkened ornament in his hands that signaled Bernard''s death.


    "Yeah, Jingle?" Bushy got on one knee, smiling at his nephew Jingle who looked at him with a concerned expression.


    "W-Will you save Santa?" Jingle asked the question on every single elf''s mind, all eyes looking at him as Bushy looked him straight in the eyes without a single ounce of hesitation.


    "Yes, I will save Santa."


    Meanwhile at the old cabin,


    "Y-You''re making a mistake~" Santa groaned, his voice weak as he strained against the chains that bound him to a nearby wooden beam.


    The ebony blade, still lodged deep in his stomach, pressed into the beam, ensuring that his healing powers couldn''t fully regenerate.


    Blood seeped steadily from the wound, staining his once-pristine attire as he struggled to keep his focus.


    His hands and legs were tightly bound, the ropes digging into his skin as the cold, relentless pain surged through him.


    Despite his condition, he lifted his gaze to Ricky and Lucky, who sat off to the side, observing with an unsettling calmness.


    Santa''s chest heaved with each labored breath, his eyes filled with disbelief and defiance, even as his strength waned.


    "It wasn''t supposed to be like this, it was supposed to be a lesson~" Santa muttered, his voice barely audible as the weight of his weakness sank in.


    His body struggled to heal, the regeneration process fighting against the damage, but the ebony blade lodged deep in his stomach thwarted every attempt.


    Each time his flesh tried to push it out, the blade sliced through his regeneration, preventing him from fully healing.


    "You keep saying that but what do you even mean, just spit it out already." Ricky scoffed from the side, Lucky nodding as his ramblings were getting out of hand.


    "C-Christmas magic, the same one that was used to turn your merchandise and horrid product into coal-............w-will wear off once Christmas ends." Santa cried, his voice trembling with the weight of his realization.


    He tried to rationalize the situation, convinced that this entire ordeal was one big misunderstanding.


    Santa had originally intended to teach these two a lesson, to make them feel some sense of remorse or guilt before they woke up the next day with their products restored.


    He had wanted them to understand the consequences of their actions, to feel the gravity of their choices but now, everything had spiraled out of control.


    Santa knew the evils of the world well, his years of experience showing him the darker sides of human nature.


    But he had always remained neutral, not choosing sides, but instead seeking to spread a little joy to those who were constantly weighed down by despair.


    This was his purpose, his gift to the world but this time, this time, it had gotten personal.


    It had started with good intentions, but now, as he lay there, bloodied and bound, he understood how terribly wrong things had gone.


    "Oh my f*cking god." Ricky stood up, kicking the chair in frustration with Lucky scrunching his eyebrows.


    "Why didn''t you tell us-"


    "You wouldn''t let me!" Santa yelled, hitting his head back against the wooden beam.


    "I-I just wanted you to feel remorse or even guilt but y-you''re too far gone, hopeless and I see that now." Santa huffed out, shaking his head since permanent naughty listers were on the list for a reason.


    There was a brief moment, a fragile sliver of time, where the situation could have been resolved.


    If only they had understood each other, if only the air hadn''t thickened with suspicion and resentment.


    But now, with no intentions left and the assurance that their product would return tomorrow, Ricky and Lucky had no further use for Santa as he had become irrelevant, a broken figure chained to a beam.


    Yet, misunderstandings only ever led to more misunderstandings and outside, the sun began to drift downwards, casting a pale midday light across the forest.


    That was when they appeared, a sea of figures, marching in the very air towards them.


    In another reality, things could have been different.


    The elves might have waited, might have gathered to ask for Santa''s return, and everything could have returned to normal.


    The cycle of Christmas, the gift-giving, the joy, could have continued as it always had.


    But Bernard had unknowingly ignited the spark that would shape a new Chapter in elf history.


    His activation of Code 0001 had set the wheels in motion, pulling them all into an irreversible conflict.


    Benard had unknowingly started The Great Elf War.


    "ATTACK, GIVE YOUR LIVES TO SAVE SANTA!" Bushy roared, his voice echoing through the cold air as he pointed his candy cane sword toward the cabin where Santa lay bound.


    His eyes burned with resolve, a fire ignited within him by the need to right the wrongs and end this madness.


    Around him, the elves rallied, their voices rising in a unified roar as they charged forward with a mixture of desperation and defiance, their determination fueling every step.


    And then, they did the one single act that would forever make the situation unresolvable.


    The elves, in their blind rush to save Santa, unleashed the full force of their fury.


    Christmas cannons, mounted on sleighs, were wheeled into position, their massive barrels aimed directly at the cabin where Santa lay bleeding.


    The air crackled with the tension, the festive decor of the cannons at odds with the grim purpose they now served.


    As they were loaded with joy and brimming with Christmas wonder to a lethal degree, the elves did the one thing that would prolong the conflict.


    They attack Ricky with the intent to kill.


    In the cabin, Ricky, who was annoyed at this all suddenly jerked his head to the side, his eyes turning back with a smile forming on his face.


    "Don''t tell me-"


    "FIRE!"


    BOOM


    BOOM


    BOOM


    BOOM


    With a single, resounding command, the cannons roared to life as a burst of glittering, explosive magic surged forward, filling the air with a deafening blast as the ground shook beneath their feet.


    The power behind the attack was unimaginable, the combination of Christmas magic and destructive force rendering the situation irreparable.


    The elves had crossed a line, one that could never be undone.


    An array of explosive power all poured from the skies, down onto the cabin as the cabin roof suddenly exploded open.


    Having reclaimed the ebony blade, Ricky stood tall, clad in all its eldritch horror alongside his black knight attire.


    As the light neared its peak, ready to explode, Ricky bent his knees, preparing himself as in a swift motion, he swung the ebony blade across his body, its dark edge cutting through the air with deadly precision.


    As the blade moved, he whispered two words, the weight of them carrying a silent promise of what was to come.


    ''Full counter.''


    Whoosh


    The air around Ricky wavered, a strange energy building as a sudden light erupted, blinding everyone nearby.


    His smile stretched further, a twisted gleam of satisfaction in his eyes as the attack, once aimed at him, was repelled with devastating force.


    The energy surged back at its origin, amplified and twice as lethal, as if the very essence of the attack had been twisted to Ricky''s will.


    "INCOMING-" One of the elves signaled only to be the first hit as the reindeer he was ride on exploded into mere dust.


    BOOM


    BOOM


    BOOM


    The horror of their own attack rippled across the skies as Bushy stood frozen, unable to tear his gaze away from the carnage unfolding around him.


    He watched, numb, as his fellow elves were eviscerated in mere moments, their bodies reduced to mere ashes.


    The explosions sent shockwaves through the air, rippling outward with devastating precision, claiming even more lives in their wake.


    "REGROUP, RE-"


    SPLAT


    An elf commander, desperate to regain control of the chaos, charged forward, only to have his body impaled by Chastifol.


    The spear, crackling with an otherworldly energy, tore through his chest with ease, pinning him to the ground.


    In a blinding daze, the spear seemed to come alive, its power surging outward like a wave of destruction.


    One by one, it skewered the elves, its pole slicing through their bodies with relentless precision.


    "STOP NO-"


    BAM


    Santa tried to stop the elves'' efforts only to be pistol whipped across the face by Lucky, shutting him up.


    "Slick-"


    "I know, I went overboard-"


    "No, I need you to go further." Lucky turned back to Ricky, seeing his son''s surprised expression.


    "This can''t just walk into our territory, demand from us, and then walk away." Lucky was a little concerned and anxious, maybe it was the reason why he was about to push Ricky to go further.


    But the fact that Santa had been able to reach each of their compounds and storage houses was a grim reminder to the mobster.


    If they let this slip, they knew it could happen again, something that could never be allowed.


    "They gotta be taught a lesson," Lucky muttered, his eyes cold as ice as the memory of the burning city he once called home resurfaced, the flames licking at the edges of his past.


    Lucky couldn''t afford to jeopardize his family, not now as he couldn''t walk away, not when the threat loomed so close.


    "What about St. Nick there?" Ricky asked, kicking his black boot as Lucky cocked the shotgun in his hand.


    "I''ll watch him. Now go out there and make them pay for coming here for our blood. Stain the snow beneath our f*cking feet with theirs." Lucky''s words were a command, raw with fury and the need for retribution.


    It was his way of telling Ricky to unleash hell as he let out a low, dark laugh, the sound filled with menace as he understood exactly what was expected.


    "You got it, pops." Ricky bent down, before launching himself into the air as his form suddenly took on a new look.


    CRACK


    Ricky''s transformation began with a sickening crack, the sound of bones reshaping and sinew stretching far beyond its natural limits.


    His muscles swelled, expanding grotesquely as if his body could no longer contain the power surging through him.


    His skin stretched taut over his growing frame, and veins bulging beneath the surface before wings sprouted from his back.


    Ricky''s eyes glowed a sickly shade, reflecting a predatory hunger as his face elongated into a vicious, vampiric etch.


    Teeth, sharp and jagged, pushed past his lips, and claws like blackened daggers sprouted from his fingertips.


    WHOOSH


    With a single, powerful flap of his devilish wings, Ricky soared into the sky, his monstrous form silhouetted against the slowly darkening sky.


    Hovering before the army of elves, Ricky extended his other hand, and with a swift, commanding motion, Chastiefol, which had been mercilessly slaughtering the elves, rocketed back into his grip.


    "M-Monster." One of the elves fearfully uttered, looking upon Ricky as the unholy abomination he was.


    "DISPERSE!" Bushy commanded, knowing they couldn''t take that being head on.


    Suddenly, a dark dome materialized around the entire forest, its edges pulsating with an eerie, unnatural energy that sealed off any possible escape.


    DINK


    The sleds and reindeer, once symbols of holiday cheer, collided into the dome as their fate had unknowingly been sealed.


    The elves, trapped within the dome, realized too late that the forest and the sky above had become their battleground, whether they liked it or not.


    "Where do you think you''re going?" Ricky laughed out, his voice monstrous and scraping against the eardrums of all those who heard it.


    "G-GIVE US BACK SANTA, NOW!" Bushy screamed, his voice trembling with fear, yet forcing itself into boldness as the gravity of the situation set in.


    His words were barely out of his mouth when a chilling chuckle echoed through the air, sending a wave of terror down the spines of everyone present.


    "How about you come and f*cking get him?" Ricky asked, chains slowly swaying behind his back like tentacles as Bushy gulped heavily.


    GULP


    "ATTACK-" Bushy set out to give the command only for Chastiefol to pierce his abdomen then rip outwards.


    "BUSHY-" Another elf roared out only for Ricky to appear above him and slash down.


    SPLAT


    Falling towards the forest, Bushy''s eyes widened in horror as he witnessed the brutal scene unfold before him.


    In an instant, an elf and reindeer were cleaved in two, their bodies falling apart with a single, devastating slash from Ricky''s blade.


    BAM


    Bushy''s falling form crashed into the snow below, the cold surface breaking his fall, but it was already too late.


    His small body, battered and broken, could never withstand the overwhelming force that had been unleashed.


    Blood pooled from the gash in his side as his hollow eyes stared up at the sky, his breath ragged and shallow.


    Above him, the anguished cries of his fellow elves echoed through the air, but they were swiftly silenced, falling like lambs to the slaughter as it was a massacre.


    The battle was completely one-sided.


    The elves and reindeer, who had spent their lives spreading joy and cheer, were no match for the sheer brutality Ricky had come to embody.


    Years of violence and brutality had molded him into something monstrous, something beyond their reckoning.


    His power, honed through what seemed like endless conflict, swept through the battlefield with terrifying ease, crushing all in its path.


    The elves, once symbols of holiday spirit, were reduced to nothing more than prey before being ripped apart.


    Pieces of elves and reindeer rained down from the sky, their broken bodies scattering across the forest like discarded remnants.


    The once pristine snow was now stained with the vivid crimson of their blood, the forest beneath them transforming into a grim mass grave as limbs, torsos, and fragments of once-lively creatures littered the ground.


    "B-Bushy?" An elf gasped, blood spilling from his mouth, his body torn and broken, missing an arm and a leg.


    With a pained, desperate crawl, he dragged himself towards the fallen elf, clutching a small bag of rainbow powder in his remaining hand.


    "S-Simon?" Bushy whispered, his vision blurred and fading as he turned his head, offering a weak smile despite the agony.


    "I-I guess you were right, I guess I''m not the elf-"


    "No, I-I was wrong." Simon shook his head, weakly setting down the bag on the ground to then scoop it up with the only hand he had.


    "Y-You''re an elf, no matter what anyone says you became an elf when everyone needed it the most." Simon gulped, tears streaking down his cheeks while pushing the powder into his wound.


    "W-What are you-"


    HUFF


    HUFF


    "S-Save Santa." Simon huffed out pained breaths, his wounds catching up with him while using his heal powder on him.


    "H-Here, it will bring Santa home." Simon stammered, his hand trembling as he placed a Christmas tree locket gently on Bushy''s chest.


    With a final sigh, he collapsed, falling forward but before he could hit the ground, Bushy''s now-healed form caught him, his strength returning just in time to cradle his friend''s broken body.


    "Why?" Bushy asked, choking as this was the only word that he could muster.


    "B-Because w-when w-we were all hopeless, y-you s-still p-pressed f-foward-" Simons pushed the locket further onto his chest, his eyes becoming more and more lifeless with every word uttered until he lost all strength.


    Just as the locket was about to slip from Simon''s hand and fall to the ground, Bushy''s fingers shot out, catching it mid-air as Simon''s fading gaze locked onto him.


    "I''ll save Santa, all of this won''t be in vain I promise!" Bushy assured, holding the locket tightly before rushing towards the cabin.


    ''G-Go Bushy, s-save Santa.'' Simon thought, too weak to speak as his eyes slowly hollowed before he took his last breath.


    Bushy''s ragged breaths echoed through the forest as he stared at the cabin that once held Santa.


    He knew this after the roof was blown open by Ricky''s attack, seeing Santa before the onslaught of their attack pushed back.


    Reaching the door, Bushy cautiously pushed it open, his eyes falling on Lucky as he reloaded his shotgun.


    The grim sight of Santa, riddled with bullets, lay before him as Lucky had been relentlessly pumping him full of lead the entire time.


    Gripping a candy cane dagger, Bushy''s eyes steeled with determination as he bit his lip, then, with the locket clutched tightly in his other hand, he rushed forward.


    "AHHHHHHHHHH!" Bushy drew Lucky''s attention with his battle cry, seeing the tiny elf rush forward only for the double barrel shotgun to point at him.


    BANG


    The buckshot slammed into Bushy, the force sending his body reeling backward as his newly healed guts splattered against the wall, and with a painful thud, he crashed into it.


    "Well, that was stupid." Lucky surmised, casting his gaze down onto Bushy slumped against the wall, heaving out breaths as he was barely holding onto his life.


    "I-I knew I wouldn''t m-make it out of here alive, I-I accepted that." Bushy chuckled painfully, releasing the candy cane dagger in one hand but when he opened his other palm, it was empty.


    "What are you-"


    WHOOSH


    A flash of light suddenly resounded in the cabin, catching Ricky''s eyes as his head jerked over to where Lucky was, only for the other elves to realize what that meant.


    "EVERYONE BUY SANTA TIME, THROW DOWN YOUR LIVES!" An elf knew what that flash meant, knowing that Bushy had succeeded as all the elves suddenly swarmed around Ricky.


    "GET OUT OF MY F*CKING WAY!" Ricky roared, ripping these elves apart like paper but they were blocking him by throwing their own bodies at him.


    In the cabin, Santa''s being swirled in Christmas wonder, turning his entire body into sparkles as the locket was teleporting him back to the North Pole.


    "You little sh*t stain." Lucky hissed at Bushy, turning the shotgun back at Santa and firing one round.


    BANG


    DINK


    But it was no use as the Christmas tree, imbued with an unyielding magic that sprang alive on this day, shielded Santa, its warmth wrapping protectively around him.


    The only force that could possibly disrupt this defense, Ricky, was too preoccupied with mowing down wave after wave of elves.


    Santa''s eyes lingered on Bushy, watching the young elf, battered and bloodied, teetering on the edge of death.


    Then, Santa''s gaze shifted, his heart heavy as he watched the elves, his beloved workers and loyal followers, fall one after another.


    They were dying, not for him, but so that he could escape and continue to carry out the very wonder of Christmas they had all devoted their lives to.


    "I won''t forget this," Santa''s voice echoed, cold and devoid of any trace of jolly cheer.


    "I won''t forget what you Luciano''s have done." Santa hatefully spoke towards Lucky, carving this very experience into his heart.


    "I won''t ever forget-"


    "Good, but just know that next time, you won''t be getting out alive, like this fella right here." Lucky''s voice was cold, his gaze unwavering as he aimed the shotgun at Bushy.


    Santa''s eyes widened in horror, his hand reaching out in a desperate attempt to stop the inevitable.


    But before he could act, a sudden force whisked him away, his body vanishing into thin air, transported back to the North Pole.


    "Any last words, run?" Lucky asked, turning towards Bushy who simply gave him a smug and bloody smile.


    "I saved Santa-"


    BANG


    SPLAT


    Bushy''s body crumpled to the ground, his head exploding from the force of the buckshot, blood and fragments scattering across the snow.


    Lucky clicked his tongue in annoyance, glancing down at the fallen elf, before turning his attention back to Ricky who had returned back to his normal state and landed in the cabin.


    "Where did he go?" Ricky, having slaughtered every single elf in his path, asked Lucky since Santa was gone.


    "No way, you let him get away-" Ricky wasn''t mad but laughed at Lucky who scoffed, kicking the headless elf slumped on the wall.


    "This little sh*t like, whisked him away with some weird-"


    "You let him get away, you let him get away~" Ricky, in his childish ways, started rubbing it in Lucky''s face as he facepalmed but couldn''t refute.


    "I-I''m sorry, for everything." Lucky muttered out, ducking his head in shame since a supposed hunting trip became a nightmarish war against Santa and his elves.


    "I just wanted to make this Christmas count before you left and-"


    "Pops, are you kidding?" Ricky laughed out, spreading out his hands with a baffled expression.


    "This was the best Christmas ever!" Ricky couldn''t help but shout, his voice carrying into the sky, exhilaration buzzing through him.


    "Slick, you don''t have to make me feel better-"


    "I''m serious, I will literally never forget this day and will always brag to anyone who will listen about how I shot Santa, with my pops." Ricky slung his arm around Lucky''s shoulder, patting his chest while leading him out of the ruined cabin.


    All across the forest, the bloody remains of the elves and reindeer slowly disintegrated, turning to Christmas dust that swirled away with the wind.


    The land, stained with the chaos of the battle, began to cleanse itself, as if the forest itself sought to erase the violence.


    Ricky and Lucky walked through the devastation, their footsteps leaving prints in the snow as they walked towards the nearby road.


    Even though today, or yesterday, hadn''t gone as planned, not even remotely close to how Lucky had imagined it, when he looked at Ricky, laughing along with him as the blood of elves stained their clothes, he smiled.


    Christmas had always been a terrible time for him, one of the reasons he had never truly experienced it.


    He had lost his family long ago, and the holiday only reminded him of that absence.


    But now, looking at Ricky, remembering the laughter of his grandkids happily opening presents by the Christmas tree, he felt a warmth in his chest.


    He was thankful.


    Thankful for the privilege of having another chance at a family, however unconventional it might be.


    Because Christmas wasn''t about grandiose gestures or the overindulgence of gifts and spiked eggnog, it was about who you spent it with.


    The moments you shared and the memories they created.


    Ricky would never forget today and for Lucky, that was enough.


    "Merry Christmas, Slick."


    "Merry Christmas, pops."


    Meanwhile at the North Pole,


    "Bushy?" Santa reached out, only for his surroundings to change and it was then that he saw it.


    It wasn''t the elves holding their mouths in disbelief, not their worried faces that haunted him.


    Once lively and colorful ornaments, the very same that should be hanging on the tree at the center of the North Pole village, were all laying around him.


    Blackened, showing no single ounce of light and having fallen from the tree that brimmed with Christmas spirit, scattered all around Santa by the dozens.


    Signaling the gruesome realization that all the elves, reindeer, and countless heralds of Christmas joy that went to save him, were all extinguished in the wake of his own selfishness, his desire to teach unreachable people a lesson.


    Ricky and Lucky were beyond redemption, lost causes in the eyes of anyone who cared to look.


    Santa should have known that after everything the list, even after checking it twice, had revealed.


    Santa should have known that the darkness within them was too deep to be undone by simple gestures, too ingrained to be washed away with a few lessons or moments of pity.


    And as the scene unfolded before him, Santa couldn''t help but feel a deep, gnawing regret as this had been his fault.


    Sniff


    "Never again." Santa''s hands clutched the snow around him, his eyes once filled with cheer filled with one single thing, vengeance.


    "Never again will I underestimate a Luciano." Santa swore, marking this loss in the bottom of his aching heart.


    "I will check my list, and I will check it twice," Santa muttered, his voice low and cold.


    "But next Christmas, I''ll make sure those Lucianos who are naughty, will die before the end of Christmas night."


    This vow, this singular vow, would unknowingly give birth to the most brutal and bloody Christmas tradition and every Luciano who had been deemed naughty would pay the price.


    For not only would Santa spend 364 days preparing to spread Christmas joy to the world''s children, but he would also spend that time crafting a bundle full of wrath specifically for the Luciano family.


    "The end." Ricky finally finished, heaving out since that story took forever.


    The kids all stood around Ricky with weird smiles since they were so desensitized to violence due to all being Luciano''s that it wasn''t even a little bit weird for them.


    "Alright, time for bed." Ricky clapped his hands, his words immediately making those smiles freeze stiff.


    "AWWWWWWWWWWW~" They all let out, whining to the top of their lungs but Ricky really just couldn''t care.


    "Come on." One by one, their parents dragged them away until Ricky was left all by himself.


    "Father, the preparations have been made." One of his sons calmly walked up next to him, standing resolute.


    "Then, let''s go pay that f*cking fatass a visit, on his own turf."


    To be continued,


    Author''s Note: I was gonna post this yesterday and I''m f*cking sorry about that but I got way to wasted. I''ll make it up to you with putting my all into the Chapter tommorrow and one of my archived story, MERRY CHRISTMAS!

 Chapter 130: Chapter 125: Surrender (R18)

    Chapter 130: Chapter 125: Surrender (R18)


    ?


    Raven bit her lip, swaying her body and raising her hips when taking her pants, knowing Ricky loved to watch her accentuate her body.


    "God, when I think you couldn''t be any more sexy you go and do this." Ricky chuckled, licking his lips as Raven bent down.


    Grabbing his cheeks with both of her hands, she was smiling ear to ear before pressing her lips to his.


    It felt strange for Raven, but being in Ricky''s arms, wrapped in his embrace, with his fingers gliding gently over her blue skin, made everything else fade away.


    The troubles of the outside world melted away under his touch, and as Raven pulled back, her thoughts were consumed by the man beneath her.


    The state of mind he brought her to was dangerous, yet intoxicating; like tasting a high she knew she could never forsake, a place she could never return from.


    "A-Ah~" Raven shuddered out a quiet and serene moan, sliding down onto Ricky''s cock and feeling that intoxicating pleasure once again wrap around her mind.


    "Beautiful." Ricky muttered out, wrapping her heart with such warm words that made her shiver.


    Opening her golden eyes, she gazed down at that familiar smile, the one that always uttered the cheesiest remarks, filling her ears with compliments she''d heard countless times before, reshaped and repackaged throughout the ages.


    "So why does it feel different with him?" Raven wondered blissfully, leaning her head back and surrendering to the cock completely filling her to the very brim.


    Ricky''s hands clasped hers as she mounted him fully, settling into a position that felt as if it had been made solely for her in this very moment.


    Clenching down, Raven smiled at his cock twitching through her body as if she needed to make sure that he was there with her.


    Her golden eyes drifted back down to Ricky, her cheeks flushing as she caught that same smile she''d seen just seconds ago and yet, somehow, it still made her melt.


    It felt like a single grain of sand in the vast desert of her endless life; countless ages filled with fleeting moments and forgotten faces.


    Yet this one speck, this fleeting sliver of time in Ricky''s hands, burned brighter and more vividly than anything she''d ever known.


    As she leaned into him, his hands claimed her with an intensity that stole the breath from her lungs, drawing her fully into his grasp, where she felt both utterly vulnerable and completely alive while pulling herself up.


    ''I can''t go back.''


    CLAP


    Raven slammed her waist back down on his cock, feeling that electric pulse rip through her body like a drumbeat, shaking her to her core.


    Clenching her teeth, her folds following by example as she arched her body back, leaning so far it felt like she might fall, slip into the void, only for Ricky to yank her back, pulling her close.


    "Ricky~" Raven moaned out his name instinctively, feeling him slither into her deepest depths, and kiss the spots that had only ever been touched by him.


    Ricky bit his lip, wanting to ruin Raven as the sound of her moaning his name filled him with such a raw vigor that would drive any sane man insane.


    How she raised her hips, in such a grateful movement, her folds slowly releasing his veiny cock, slick with her juices, before stopping just shy of letting his tip break free.


    CLAP


    Then, without another moment''s notice, her hips slammed back onto him, her perky blue ass clapping against his thighs.


    Her breasts bouncing slightly as her nipples, a darker shade of blue, drew the attention in a way that tantalized the eye, centering her body completely in a mesmerizing rhythm.


    Ricky''s eyes traced down her slim body, which glistened under any light, radiating a charm so powerful it left anyone in awe, reeling from the shock of how something so unnaturally beautiful could even exist.


    CLAP


    "Ricky~" Raven moaned his name, losing herself to him as she leaned forward, trusting that if she fell forward, he would be there to catch her.


    As if she were a fortune teller, Raven felt Ricky''s embrace as he sat up, his hands releasing from his grip to wrap around her body, holding her still when she threw herself forward.


    Biting down on her lip, Raven watched him guide her up before gently bringing her back down, another moan escaping her lips.


    "Ah~" Raven moaned, but instead of closing her eyelids, her golden eyes fixed on the sight of Ricky, a flush creeping across her face that painted her blue cheeks in a tinge of red.


    Laying a foundation with his lips, he covered her body in kisses, each one trickling upward from her belly button all the way to her breasts.


    His tongue effortlessly swirling around her nipple, Raven shivered, lifting her hands to tangle in his slicked-back hair, pulling him closer, wrapping him in her embrace.


    But it only seemed to invigorate him more as his muscles strained, veins standing out, yet he held back, before finally bringing her down.


    His cock seemingly shot through her being while her warm insides pulsed and twitched with a heat that seemingly begged for more.


    Weeping with juices that would ruin the bedding beneath them, yet they didn''t care.


    The only thing that mattered was entangling their bodies in a pleasure-filled dance, luring them deeper into their own possessive desires.


    "Ah~" Raven moaned, her voice hitting Ricky''s ear drums with a rise in cadence that showed just how deeply she felt him.


    Her insides clenched, her breath stuttering, feeling his tip nestle against her deepest part as if it were the most natural thing in the world.


    But just as that sensual moan was about to escape her sultry lips, Ricky finally made his way to her face, locking his gaze onto hers and she instinctively leaned in.


    Closing her eyes, Raven lost herself to the rhythm of his tongue, moving in time with the beat


    of Ricky''s drum.


    CLAP


    The sound of her ass resounded throughout the room as Ricky moved her body with invigorated intensity, unable to resist the greed of wanting more of her as his hands slowly slid down to her plump ass, digging his fingernails into the soft blue flesh.


    CLAP


    Ricky couldn''t help but lose control, feeling her shiver under his touch as her tongue surrendered to his mercy but he couldn''t stand it.


    CLAP


    Raven''s body always drove him mad, insane, and what made it worse was how she was always so lost in his grasp, letting him take control of her being which always seemed to drive him


    further over the edge.


    CLAP


    Losing himself in the moment whenever she fell into his embrace, everytime his thoughts wandered into the realm that wanted nothing more than to ruin her completely, so that she would only ever associate pleasure with him.


    CLAP


    "AH~" Raven gasped out a moan, finally breaking free from the kiss as Ricky watched her, his desire igniting at the sight of her completely lost in his cock.


    Their bodies were pressed so close, arms wrapped around each other in such a tender way and yet, the way they slammed against one another was so intense, almost out of place.


    CLAP


    The sound of their flesh rubbing together, colliding together echoed in the room, the air thickening with the scent of their mingled bodies that were constantly being slathered in one


    another.


    But sounds and the smell didn''t even concern him, all that mattered to Ricky was what stood mounted before him, the veins in his neck bulging as he struggled to hold back at the sight of


    her arching her head back.


    CLAP


    Her ass reverberated against his thighs, the force even stronger than before, as Raven''s eyes, once shut, flew open wide.


    "RICK-AH~" Raven tried to moan his name, but only a gasp mixed with a moan escaped her


    parted, wet lips.


    Raven held Ricky tight, feeling his cock twitching fiercely inside her as her own pleasure built, straining under his sudden movements.


    Ricky buried his face between her jiggling, perky breasts, completely lost in Raven guts as his movements grew more purposeful, his balls swirling with an intent that was etched into every


    human man.


    Their breaths grew ragged, clinging to each other as they collided into one another with a fierce intensity, forcing their bodies to twitch in unison, resonating at a frequency that


    completely shattered their minds.


    "RICKY~" Raven cried out his name as her tone was filled to the brim with their shared lust, her body sinking down, impaled on him as he twitched vigorously inside her.


    Her body shuddered, flushing out a seismic climax that flooded her mind with pure bliss, leaving a brief aching sensation deep inside her for a split second.


    "Argh~" Ricky grunted, feeling his balls churn as he released a heaping of his cum, filling


    Raven completely.


    The aching sensation that had suddenly haunted her was completely filled by his thick, milky cum, erupting in waves of heat that coursed through her body, making her melt against him.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    Raven huffed, not completely broken yet, but the time spent under his grip was slowly building, challenging her to keep up with his relentless stamina.


    Unlike her ragged breathing, Ricky kissed her neck, and when she looked at him, she instinctively smiled, caressing his cheek as he opened his eyes to meet her gaze. "What did I do?" Ricky asked, taking her hand that was gently caressing his cheek and


    pressing a kiss to her palm.


    "Everything~" Raven whispered sensually, smiling warmly at him as he froze for a moment before a sleazy grin stretched across his face.


    "So, I''m your everything now?" Ricky asked, leaning forward as Raven wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him down as they tumbled back onto the bed.


    "Maybe~" Raven chuckled, her hot breath brushing against him as her red hair spilled across


    the bed.


    "Oh, come on, you can''t leave me hanging like that," Ricky chuckled, his hands pinning hers to the bed, wrapping her fingers around them and holding them firmly in place. "Why not?" Raven huffed, her cheeks flushing as a lost expression crossed her face, as if she


    ever had a chance of holding out.


    It was then that her lips were graced with another kiss, the warmth of his tongue numbing her already dazed mind, still overflowing from the heat of his cum.


    Scorching hot, Ricky felt it was almost unbearable to stand and yet, she continued to take every inch, every drop of him, over and over again.


    It was then that Ricky''s hips lifted, slowly pushing and pulling Raven into a gentle rhythm.


    Completely pinned under Ricky, Raven took him without resistance but unlike before, when she fought to avoid being devoured, she was now surrendering to the warmth that constantly filled her, melted her, wrapping around her in a feeling she couldn''t help but become lost in. "Tell me, Raven. Tell me I''m your everything." Ricky murmured with a hot breath, pulling


    away from her lips and whispering into her ear, wanting to hear the words for himself rather


    than say it. "A-Ah, y-you''re-ah~" Raven wanted to repeat his words, but the gentle flow of her tongue flicked out a moan that tingled his ears instead.


    "Raven-" Ricky whispered, smiling as her legs wrapped around his waist as if instinctively


    giving into him.


    However, it wasn''t enough for the blushing Ricky, who couldn''t help but be turned on by Raven constantly telling him how much of her body and mind belonged to him.


    If Ricky''s warmth was an intoxicating drug, the desire to possess Raven was an inherent


    instinct. It felt as though if Raven wasn''t constantly saying his name, sounding out the syllables always spilling from her lips as she described how his cock completely filled her, telling him how anything and everything about her was his, it would drive him nearly mad.


    Bam


    The bedframe creaked against the wall, the hinges straining under the force pushing and


    pulling into Raven.


    Unlike the bed, which seemed on the verge of crumbling under his force, Raven took him in completely, her every movement a sensual whisper.


    "I~" Raven moaned, her head tilting back against the bed as she swayed gently, eyes closed in


    pleasure. The heat of the moment taking over her mind, hitting her with this feeling that was


    completely different from before.


    Nothing about Ricky had changed, nothing about how he filled every single inch of her


    changed and yet, when he filled her completely this time, it felt different.


    Instead of her conscience fighting against the tide of his hips, against the push and pull of his


    cock, this time it was all-encompassing.


    Raven didn''t look back, didn''t wonder about anything or anyone else as all she could focus on


    was the sight of Ricky.


    Her golden eyes narrowed as Ricky hovered above her, his smile lighting up her vision once


    again as he swayed into her being.


    Pushing his hips into her folds, in a way that he seemingly clicked into place as his tip kissed


    her womb that was already filled to the brim with his cum, and then would finally be topped


    off by Raven''s voice, which voiced out one single word that showed all the pleasure she felt


    from it.


    "Ricky-"


    It was then that his name would flick out of her tongue, the word fluttering from her mouth as


    if it was completely seared into her mind.


    Everything, inside and out, felt consumed by Ricky, like it had become second nature to her


    and then, as if she couldn''t further this state, Raven finally whispered the words that drove


    him wild.


    "You''re my everything~" Raven murmured unconsciously, the words sending a shiver down


    Ricky''s spine.


    BAM


    "RICKY~" Raven arched beneath him, screaming his name, the sound of her voice drowning out the rhythmic thud of the bedframe slamming against the wall.


    The reasoning behind how Ricky''s hips surged to a whole new level lay in the rush of her


    words, in the sheer weight of what she meant to him, igniting a fire that pushed him to the edge of control.


    The reasoning lay in how Ricky''s hips surged to a whole new level, invigorated to an entirely new degree by her words, by the deep meaning of what she was to him.


    Lying beneath him, moaning out only his name, taking every single inch of him as he thrust into her repeatedly, all the while she voiced to him how he was her everything, it was maddening for Ricky.


    Leglocked around his waist, it only allowed for Ricky to be more aggressive in his pursuits as


    The brought down his cock.


    Watching as her pussy gulped him up entirely, slickness drooling from the edges of her folds at the tantalizing response to the fulfilling stretch of his girth and length, overwhelming her already ruined form.


    Driving into her, splitting her open, his grip unrelenting as he impaled her completely, reveling in the way he filled her guts to their very brim and then pushed further. Then, upon hearing his name moan from her lips, he would repeat the process again, and again, with each mind numbing thrust relentlessly trying to drive deeper.


    BAM


    "RICKY~"


    BAM


    "RICKY~"


    BAM


    "RICKY~"


    The room brimmed with his name, moaned endlessly, as the bedframe applauded her efforts


    with every thrust. But each utterance of that cadence only provoked a more aggressive thrust, slamming down


    into Raven''s very core as her voice climbed to a higher octave, straining against the relentless onslaught of his hips.


    It was a vicious loop, fueled by their mutual desire, each movement building, stacking, and feeding into the next, spiraling into an unrelenting, intense crescendo.


    "RICKY!" Raven squealed, her voice breaking into a scream as it echoed through the room, her eyes rolling back.


    Pleasure seized her mind, struggling to withstand the relentless flood of lust that swarmed and crashed against her.


    Ricky''s name, already seared into her mind, spilled from her lips again, meeting his ears just


    as he huffed out a ragged breath.


    His eyes locked onto her body, pinned beneath him, reflecting her blue form swaying with


    every movement within his eyes, her chest rising and falling with every heave of a moan, each curve accentuating themselves as Ricky drover into her.


    Thrusting forward, his cock barreled into her guts, swarmed around only moments later with


    the warmth of her insides.


    BAM


    Ricky thrust his hips fully into Raven, their skin slapping together with each forceful


    movement.


    But it was the bedframe that groaned under the pressure, slamming into the wall as it


    splintered from the impact.


    As Ricky pushed every ounce of himself into her, Raven''s breath was stolen from her, gasping


    as his thrust knocked the air from her lungs.


    But this vicious cycle was interrupted as he twitched violently, his cock pulsing in time with


    the movement of his balls, swirling with anticipation.


    Ricky felt himself getting close and there wasn''t a price on earth that could stop him from


    pulling out as he slammed everything back in.


    GASP


    Raven was the one to bear the entire weight of his punishing thrust, gasping out as sparks


    exploded in her mind, making her body shudder, the mounting sensation building to a


    breaking point.


    With one final pull of his hips, Ricky gave everything he had, forcing himself deep into Raven, completing the relentless rhythm. "RICKY~" Raven gasped out, clenching her teeth while her eyes watered and her body seizured in pure, unrelenting pleasure


    Her folds trembled as she squirted out every single drop of her sweet juices, while Ricky''s cock unloaded everything from his balls, deep inside her, overwhelming them both. The pleasure exploded between them, gripping them both as they were momentarily forced into a stunned silence, time seeming to freeze before it surged to another, deeper level. "AH~" Raven moaned out, closing her eyes and squealing out another helping as she felt the second coming of his cock take hold of her.


    The miasmatic heat pressed into her already full womb, filling it the very brim and then


    further as all she could do was moan out.


    Her hands, body, and mind, all pinned under Ricky who seemingly released wave after wave,


    erupting a fiery hot stream of cum that seemingly never stopped until he heaved out a breath.


    "F*ck~" Ricky hovered above Ravne, finally letting go of her hands and slicking his sweaty


    hair back while looking at the mess under him.


    Lying on the bed, eyes hazy, Raven remained beneath him, her body glistening with sweat as her chest rose and fell erratically, matching the rhythm of her ragged breaths. Slowly, her eyes opened, revealing her beautiful golden irises, locking onto his green ones.


    It was then that the sight of her, every single culmination that centered around that hazy


    stare, culminated in a single reaction from him.


    "Damn~" Ricky muttered, already invigorated and ready for more as he effortlessly turned her around.


    Raven''s body flopped onto her belly before he pulled her up, her back pressing against his


    chest.


    Her hands instinctively glided over her protruding stomach, completely full of his cum and


    cock while wondering if this was what it would feel like when his child began to grow inside


    her.


    However, the warmth and fullness gradually faded as Ricky slowly pulled out, leaving her


    with a lingering emptiness.


    Pop


    Raven''s body clenched as Ricky''s slick cock slid free from her, his cum spilling out as he


    withdrew.


    Raven''s pussy popped as Ricky''s slickened cock broke free from the grip, his cum spilling out moments later.


    It streamed from her lips, flowing down her thighs and onto the sheets, staining them with


    the tonic of his cum and her own juices.


    But Ricky didn''t rest for a second, sandwiching his cock between her perky blue ass, rubbing


    up and down as Raven rested her head on his shoulder.


    "Could I have-"


    "It''s yours, everything is yours~" Raven interrupted Ricky, caressing his cheek with her hazy


    expression as nothing mattered.


    Raven had completely surrendered, giving herself to Ricky entirely, accepting that there was


    no point in running or resisting when she could simply give in to him. Ricky''s arms tightened around her, his eyes gazing down at her body with a predatory gleam,


    the words fueling him to no end.


    With a shift of his hips and a guiding hand, he positioned himself at her puckered blue ass, his


    gaze locking onto the scene, filled with anticipation.


    His tip, still slick with the remnants of his cum and her juices, slowly began to press into the


    tight, puckered hole.


    "H-Ha~" Raven let out a staggered moan, crumbling under the feeling of Ricky once again claiming a part of her body.


    Ricky, on the other hand, said nothing, his head buried in her neck in silence, though the veins


    in his neck and arms stood out, pulsing with intensity.


    ''She''s so f*cking tight.'' Ricky breathlessly thought, feeling that unbearable tightness of her


    ass clamp down on his cock.


    The pressure seemed to strangle him, a hold that felt impossible to escape, an unbreakable


    wall forming and solidifying his cock in place as if it would be useless to try anything more,


    until his eyes glinted upward


    "H-HA~" Raven''s eyes widened, her breathless, staggered moan escaping her as Ricky slowly


    pushed deeper into her ass.


    Slithering forward, his cock forced its way in as the wall tried to resist, her ass clenching down onto him with a vice-like grip, threatening to cut off circulation and yet, Ricky pushed


    forward, relentless.


    Deeper, Ricky continued to slowly inch forward, his hips pushing further as Raven began to


    really feel every centimeter of his cock slide in, settling deeper into her tight ass. Her moans were completely staggered at this point, her voice lost, with only her mouth


    hanging open in silent gasp.


    The pain was present, having her tight hole that had never been touched be ripped, stretched


    apart by Ricky''s girthy cock and yet, she felt that inkling of pleasure.


    As Ricky''s hand gripped tightly into Raven''s perky breasts, squeezing down as if holding himself back from ripping her ass to shreds, he used his amplifying hands. Forcing that inkling of pleasure to amplify, radiate in her mind until Raven was completely


    crushed under his cock.


    Clap


    Ricky couldn''t control himself, forcing the last of his cock into her, impaling her tight hole as


    his tip slid deep inside her being.


    But instead of a scream of pain, instead of pulling away from the overwhelming sensation of


    her ass being ripped in real time, Raven melted completely.


    Ricky''s tip pressed tightly against her G-spot, suffocating that sensitive spot, while his hands amplified the sensation to such a degree that Raven went limp in that moment. "H-H-Ha~" Raven laughed, the sound blending with her moans as her mind shut down under


    the feeling


    Feeling a stimulation that was different from what she usually felt, but it didn''t leave her


    pussy feeling left out, not even a little.


    In the next instant, Raven''s folds flooded with release, her body coming almost instantly as


    her golden eyes glazed over.


    "Yershgns~" Raven had completely broken beneath him, shattered by the pleasure she had


    already surrendered to.


    Unable to hold back for a single second longer, Ricky started moving his hips, almost breathless at that suffocating feeling strangling his cock as he pulled out. Feeling how every inch of him was tenderly engulfed before he pushed it all back in, feeling


    that resistance appeared before him, trying to crush him under the weight of her tight ass,


    and ending it only leaving Ricky wanting more.


    That vicious cycle, the same one that always consumed both of them when their bodies


    combined, repeated once more.


    Except instead of his name, how Raven sensually whispered the five letter word that always


    drove Ricky mad, she only mustered out gibberish.


    "Rifstgs-"


    TWAP


    "Yghsndg~"


    TWAP


    Her ass being utterly pulverized while taking every single helping of his relentless cock, crushing her mind into a smoldering paste of pleasure that forced out only nonsense.


    The only coherent sound was the slick, dry slap of her ass against his hips, each movement


    building into something more with each iteration of his cock being engulfed by her tight


    puckered ass.


    "Why do you do this to me~" Ricky muttered out, groaning almost to Raven as if it was all her


    fault.


    Looking at her ragged form, her mouth agape and drooling at the ends with her tongue


    flailing about while her eye darted around like pinballs. However even then, even with everything she showed and gave to Ricky, it wasn''t enough as


    his tongue suddenly swirled around hers.


    In Ricky''s mind, when looking at the state he was f*cking her in, if she couldn''t even say his


    name in that same sweet tongue that he should at least taste it for himself. Raven felt as if everything around her was sinking under him, from how his fingers slowly


    teased and squeezed her blue nipples to his cock slamming into her ass while pressing


    repeatedly against her G-spot.


    Even trying to moan out his name didn''t satisfy him, knowing deep down that even when


    Ricky ruined her, ensnared her entire body under his touch, that even then it wouldn''t be


    enough as he would try to push even further.


    Yet, in that fleeting moment, when her eyes gained a brief second of clarity to realize how


    dangerous it was, she simply closed her eyes as Ricky wrapped his hands around her


    completely.


    There was no escaping, no running; there was only Ricky, and Raven finally accepted that


    completely.


    TWAP


    Raven''s ass slapped against his hips, the wet sound echoing as Ricky''s cock pushed deeper,


    hitting her G-spot with each thrust.


    Raven''s ass jarred out the wet sound of her sweaty cheeks slamming into his hips, Ricky''s cock


    pushing deeper, hitting her G-spot with each thrust. However instead of the usual drawn out feeling, pulling Raven along this cadence of a


    marathon of his cock, he felt his cock twitch. The unbearable tightness made even Ricky weak, feeling like he was going to give out, yet he


    relentlessly pursued it without hesitation. Pushing and pulling, punishing and claiming every part of Raven''s being, Ricky drove himself


    deeper into her nerve endings before pulling back once more.


    TWAP


    "URGH!" Ricky groaned out aggressively, his cum barreling out in the same tone only a split


    second later.


    Then, as if the timing couldn''t be any more perfect, a wave of juices splashed out from


    Raven''s folds and dyed the sheets beneath them in her scent. Raven couldn''t speak, only uttering out a groan of a shuddering breath to acknowledge all of


    Ricky''s hard work of filling her ass in his erupting heat. Raven''s body jerked upwards, recoiling from Ricky sending another thrust deep into her being


    to cement his climax as Raven looked up at the light of the moon. Only for Ricky to cover her eyes with his hands and pull her back into the abyss, kissing her


    shoulder while holding her tight with one hand.


    "Are you okay?" Ricky asked with a battered breath, thinking he had gone too far and


    worriedly asking as Raven huffed out.


    "Fwine, I''m fwine~" Raven slurred her words, only for her head to droop signaling that she


    had given up on trying to stay awake and fell asleep within his hold, trusting him completely.


    This trust didn''t go unwarranted as Ricky slowly pulled out, bringing her into embrace as they


    fell back onto the bed.


    Stroking her hair, Ricky smiled as she unconsciously huffed out breaths before he wrapped


    both arms tightly around her and closed his eyes.


    Later that night,


    Ricky, with Raven lying on his chest, suddenly opened his eyes, clutching her tightly as his


    field activated.


    BAM


    Suddenly, the windows around him shattered as fire erupted, engulfing the house, just as


    Raven opened her eyes at the disruption of her blissful sleep.


    "Wha-"


    "Gate." Ricky muttered, gesturing to the side. His grimoire appeared, flipping open to the


    section on gates, and a portal materialized.


    After covering Raven with a blanket, Ricky was about to rush through the gate, only to stop in


    his tracks as he saw the house where Jake and the others were staying, now engulfed in flames


    as well.


    "Switch." Ricky gestured to the gate, switching locations before arriving at a spot in the


    desert and walking out with Raven bundled in a blanket within his arms. "What is going on, Ricky?" Raven asked, watching as the portal closed behind them as he


    quickly checked her body to make sure she was alright.


    "Someone''s attacked. I''ll be right back, so stay here, alright?" Ricky kissed her blue skin


    gently and met her gaze as she slowly nodded, her eyes scanning the vast expanse of the


    desert around them before Ricky activated Harbinger''s Sanctum. "What''s happening?" Raven asked, watching Ricky gently placed her on a rock while watching


    him back up.


    "Somebody f*cked up, really f*cking badly."

 Chapter 131 - 126: Confrentation With The KKK

    Chapter 131: Chapter 126: Confrentation With The KKK


    "Ricky, I understand that, but right now I''m naked on a rock." Raven scrunched her eyebrows, pointing to the blanket being the only form of clothing she had.


    "Yeah you are~" Ricky let out a sleazy chuckle, nodding to himself while looking at the skimpy Raven covering all the juicy parts with a comforter from the bed.


    Sigh


    "Can you at least leave me a fire-"


    Boom


    "Well, that was disappointing." Ricky muttered, exploding a nearby cactus in a towering flame only for it to dwindle shortly afterwards.


    Cactus aren''t easily combustible since they store a lot of water relative to their dry weight, which Ricky was now learning.


    "Wait, hold on." Ricky walked to the side, Raven watching with a plain expression only for her eyes to widen as he picked up a huge hollow trunk and set it in front of her.


    Boom


    Controlling his pyrokinesis, he conjured a warm fire in front of Raven as the warmth slowly radiated towards her.


    "Thank you." Raven said sweetly, smiling warmly at him as he kissed her forehead.


    "I''ll be back in an hour!" Ricky called out before dashing through the portal while Raven shook her head, clutching the blanket tightly around herself as she settled onto a nearby rock before nudging near the fire.


    Arriving in the house stark naked, he pulled out the Necronium, which immediately began spewing massive torrents of water throughout the space.


    "Alexander! Chester!" Ricky shouted, bursting through the door to find the two amidst a pile of playing cards next to a passed out Asterion.


    "I''m here too, jerk." Garfield coughed up from the side, pouting as Ricky scooped him up.


    "ONE MORE CARD, ALL I NEED IS ONE MORE CARD AND I WIN-" Alexander screeched, trying to reach out his paws only for Chester to look at the scene.


    Although Alexander had never won before, and letting him take this one would be the friendly thing to do, Chester''s pride stung at the thought of actually losing to the hopeless Alexander.


    "No time." Chester yanked Alexander backwards, swiping his wing at the disposable playing cards as they blew into the fire.


    "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"


    BAM


    The windows shattered from the fire, and Ricky glanced back to see Chester already taking charge of Alexander.


    BAM


    Ricky stomped on Asterion''s white belly, but the latter barely reacted, his eyes slowly flickering open.


    Ricky knew the flames wouldn''t harm Asterion, but it was the principle of being a good companion that truly mattered.


    "Ugh, wha-" Asterion groaned, holding his head as he looked around, only to notice the entire room engulfed in flames.


    "Here, take this," Ricky said abruptly, shoving something toward him and Asterion instinctively complied, still too disoriented to question it.


    BOOM


    Within moments, Asterion''s body was hurled out of the house as Ricky had formed a mental wall and forcefully pushed him out of the burning wreckage.


    Turning back, Ricky frantically searched through the inferno until his eyes landed on an unconscious Jake pinned beneath a fallen wooden beam.


    BAM


    Ricky heaved the beam to the side, slung Jake over his shoulder, and sprinted out of the house. The moment he was clear of the flames, he carefully set Jake down.


    Seeing Jake''s body covered in burns, Ricky placed a hand on him, channeling psychic healing; a skill he''d barely practiced before but the desperation outweighed his inexperience as he focused all his energy on mending the damage.


    Ricky felt the strain as using healing was far more taxing than his other abilities, but it was manageable.


    Slowly, a wave of energy pulsed around Jake, the burns and wounds gradually receding as his original form began to reappear.


    GASP


    COUGH


    COUGH


    Jake gasped, smoke billowing from his lungs, and Ricky let out a sigh of relief before slapping him across the cheek.


    Smack


    "What the hell-"


    "WHO SLEEPS THROUGH A FIRE?!" Ricky exclaimed, baffled, shaking his collar as if he wanted to scold him as Jake scratched his head, glancing back at the burning wreckage.


    "There was a fire-"


    "Nevermind-wait, where''s Marshall?" Ricky suddenly realized, his gaze darting around as he was certain he had checked the entire house.


    "Chester, what happened?" Ricky walked up to Chester, looking at him as Garfield pouted.


    "Why do you always ask him for help-"


    "Oh my god, fine, what happened Gafield." Ricky faceplamed, looking towards Garfiled who looked to the side.


    However Garfield, being the useless cat he was, didn''t know that the local Ku Klux Klan had been monitoring Ricky''s trial carefully.


    As it proceeded, so did the updates and upon seeing the shocking fact that Ricky actually had a chance to win the trial, they finally decided to act and-


    "Uh, the Ku Klux Klan took them." Garfield, actually being useful in his abilities, read the narration and interrupted the author''s in depth narration.


    "Oh come on, you can''t blame me when you go overboard at every chance." Garfield scoffed at the author, but the cat was lying to himself and truly cherished the narrations that most people skip over.


    "Yeah, whatever-"


    "How could you have known that?" Chester said in a baffled tone, not at all expecting Garfiled to actually manage to be useful.


    "Garfield, tell me what happened and I''ll give you all the lasagna a cat can f*cking stomach!" Ricky grabbed the cat, shaking him vigorously as his mouth watered before looking towards the author as if waiting for the flashback.


    10 minutes before the fire,


    BLERGH


    Asterion vomited mouthfuls of whiskey back into one of the barrels he had drunk from, as everyone around him let out a collective sigh.


    "We literally told you, Asterion, don''t drink the vanilla-flavored whiskey," Jake lamented from the side, his eyes drifting over to Marshall as he slipped on his coat.


    "Uh, where are you going?" Jake asked, standing up, but Marshall simply waved him off.


    "For a small walk out back, I need fresh air to think-"


    "Buddy, hey, that ain''t a good idea, especially with a community that has a tradition of hanging people like you," Jake said, waving his hands in an attempt to dissuade Marshall. But Marshall only gave him a stubborn response.


    "I need this," Marshall said, his tone firm while wiping his mouth, hiding the clear concern in his already uneasy expression.


    "I need to think about how I''m going to cross-examine Dewey and win this case. The judge is a piece of work, and I''ll need every second of thinking that isn''t filled with the pungent aroma of vomited whiskey." Marshall gestured to the side, watching Asterion having his back pat back by Alexander.


    "I''m sorry~" Asterion murmured, looking up and wiping his mouth, as Alexander gently patted his human cheek.


    "Fear not, Asterion, for all might is triumphed by alcohol. Show no shame in your efforts, but glory in your pursuits." Alexander declared, clenching his mighty paw as Asterion heaved up another mouthful of vomit.


    "Give it back." Chester muttered from the side, squinting his brows, his focus not on the ongoing conversation but on Garfield, who was holding the sack of bird seed.


    "Give what back?" Garfield asked, slumping back on the couch and swaying the bag side to side.


    "That is my bird seed-"


    "Oh, I''m sorry, I didn''t know your name was ''Nut Incorporated.''" Garfield chuckled, snobbishly reading the label on the bag before glancing at Chester.


    "Garfield, I''m trying really hard to be patient with you but-"


    "You''re sick and tired of being treated like your opinion doesn''t matter, huh? Yeah, me too." Garfield scoffed, clutching the bag as he looked toward the reader.


    "I''m literally a cosmic cat, but I''m being treated like a handheld accessory that is only used when needed." Garfield pointed at his majestic and round self, scrunching his brows at his own unique description.


    "I have feelings, I feel things!" Garfield thumped his chest, explaining his situation to Chester, the reader, and to the author who merely shrugged behind the computer.


    "I understand, but Ricky is human, and it takes time for him to find value in things. Even I was neglected at first because of his own ignorance," Chester said, trying hard to get along with Garfield.


    However, unlike the other familiars who had bonded easily with him, the cat just didn''t like him.


    "But I found my place, within the fold due to hardwork and-"


    "But I don''t want to do that," Garfield said unabashedly, looking at Chester with a shrug.


    "I want all the things, and I want them now because I deserve them." Garfield spoke as if there was nothing wrong with his state of mind, thinking everyone around him needed to change to accommodate him.


    "Wow." Chester replied, the only word he could muster, as Alexander let out a scoff from the side.


    "Yeah, try being stuck with him for over a year. It only gets worse," Alexander added, feeling bad but not wanting to get involved with Garfield since he was just too much of a handful.


    "Marshall-"


    "I''m fine, anyways, don''t worry about me and focus on the vomiting giant of a man over there," Marshall called out, gesturing toward Asterion before closing the door behind him and walking into the night.


    This case was brutal for Marshall, and he knew deep down that if he wanted to stay on this path, it would only get harder.


    The blatant favoritism, the casual disregard for proper procedure, it was wearing him down.


    Judge Mason was making sure he never caught a break, always shutting him down before he could get a foothold.


    Marshall had to work three times as hard just to scrape the surface of Hawkins'' case, and that infuriated him.


    He knew Hawkins would object to everything he said against Dewey, dragging out every detail which is why Marshall had to steel himself, lock in his mindset, and brace for the fight ahead.


    It was then that shadowy figures, cloaked in white, began to slowly circle around him.


    Marshall, too lost in thought to notice at first, finally snapped out of his reverie when three of them stepped directly in front of him.


    "Hey, boy, nice night for a stroll, don''t you think?" A man''s voice chuckled from behind the white, drooping outfit, his thick Southern accent cutting through the air.


    Marshall''s eyes widened, his body convulsing with shock as the reality of the situation hit him.


    It was only when he looked around that he saw the members of the actual Ku Klux Klan surrounding him completely, their white robes blending into the darkness like specters closing in.


    "GET HIM!" one of the men yelled, and in an instant, they all surged toward Marshall.


    Panic flooded his veins as he turned to run, his heart pounding in his chest, but the figures closed in on him with relentless speed.


    Just as Marshall managed to break free and catch a sliver of daylight, he was yanked back by his collar and thrown violently to the ground.


    His body slammed against the pavement, pain shooting through him, before a heavy boot collided with his face.


    He instinctively raised his arms to protect himself, but it did little to stop the onslaught.


    Stomps and kicks rained down on him from all sides, each blow harder than the last.


    The men surrounding him unleashed a brutal barrage of punches and kicks, pummeling him without mercy.


    Marshall could barely process the pain before another hit landed, each strike pushing him further into the grim reality of his helplessness.


    The men were merciless, punishing him until he was on the brink of losing consciousness, his breath ragged and shallow.


    They looped a rope around his neck and yanked him backward, the sudden pressure choking the air from his lungs.


    Desperately grabbing at the rope, he was pulled away with force as one of the older members glanced toward another group, his face cold and resolute.


    He handed them a lighter and a bottle of alcohol, the ominous gesture setting Marshall''s nerves on fire with the growing sense of dread.


    "Go set that negro lovers house aflame." The man spat, his words heavy with hatred as the others nodded, their expressions hardening, before they turned and left, heading toward the house.


    Ripping cloth into strips, they stuffed them into the bottle, waiting just long enough for the fabric to dampen.


    Once the end was set ablaze, they hurled the bottle through the window as it exploded on impact, sending a burst of fire through the room, filling the air with the crackling roar of flames.


    "AH!" Jake yelled as the Molotov cocktail hit him directly in the head as he stumbled backward, but before he could douse the flames, his head slammed against the wall, and everything went black as he fell into unconsciousness.


    Present time,


    "Well damn, now I feel like an asshole for yelling at Jake." Ricky rubbed the back of his neck, frowning while outside.


    "But seriously, holy sh*t Garfield, how did you know all of that?" Ricky asked, bending down to the spot where Marshall was beaten to a pulp and picked up a drop of his almost dried blood.


    It was then that the Seeker''s Orb Integration slowly seeped out of his palm, coming out of his flesh before he put the drop into it.


    "What can I say, I''m just the best." Garfield smugly shrugged, never knowing he could actually read all of the author''s hard work then pass it off as his.


    "You''re no saint, constantly saying fat jokes about me and-"


    SMACK


    "Woah, what the hell?" Ricky recoiled instinctively, Garfield tripping and slamming his face right into a sewer cover as if perfectly timed.


    Garfield simply gazed up at the author, holding his choice words back as Ricky started healing him.


    "Anyways, good job Garfield." Ricky held up a thumbs up, smiling at Garfield who rubbed his arm.


    "Thanks." Garfield didn''t respond in a smug way, actually feeling thankful for Ricky actually appreciating his abilities.


    "Alright, Chester come with me, along with Alexander, Jake and Asterion will stay here, and Garfield." Ricky ordered out, making his way to everyone before arriving on Garfield.


    "Uh, just do you I guess, you''ve already done more than enough so take a breather." Ricky informed, grabbing Alexander and running in a certain direction as the cat crossed its tiny orange arms while raising his furry chin high.


    "I will."


    "What are you planning to do, Ricky? Slay the enemy? Claim penance in their deaths? I am curious." Alexander asked cautiously, nestled in the pocket of his shirt.


    "Well, those guys f*cked up and it pisses me off that they think that everything''s gonna go their way." Ricky scoffed, his eyes turning void black as he cracked his neck to the side.


    "But on the other hand, I''ve been wanting to test out some of my abilities that I haven''t had the chance to try yet," Ricky explained, glancing at his system panel before focusing on a specific one.


    ''Just to be safe.''


    Digital Cloaking: ON


    Ricky had turned it off, originally wanting to keep a low profile in the media for the trial.


    But with everything that could go wrong, it was reassuring not to have to worry about someone catching him off guard with something like surveillance.


    Taking out Chastelfold, he watched as it hovered in the air beside him as he gazed at the first mythical weapon he had ever obtained, feeling the weight of its significance.


    ''But just in case.'' Ricky thought, extending his arm as the Ebony Blade, currently dormant, in New York.


    He had left it behind in the city, not wanting to disregard its power, but the blade didn''t want to come unless there would be an enemy or when someone needed to be slain


    "What are you doing-"


    "Wait for it," Alexander interrupted Chester, knowing he hadn''t noticed it yet, as they ran toward their destination.


    BAM


    BAM


    BAM


    Trees exploded in a straight line toward Ricky until a dark object collided with his outstretched hand, stopping the onslaught in its tracks.


    ''You called.'' The Ebony Blade asked out, Ricky putting the holster on his back and running with the blade while Chastelfold hovered to the side.


    ''Yeah, some dipsh*t''s set my house on fire.'' Ricky explained with a frown, still annoyed that they actually had the balls to do something to a mobster.


    ''Fair enough.'' The Ebony Blade uttered, agreeing since at the end of the day, it was a sword.


    Although it really understands human emotions or desires, it wouldn''t go against Ricky since it was something so insignificant in its eyes.


    "Why are you running? I thought you could fly now?" Chester asked, looking at Ricky but he smiled at the question, and Chastiefold suddenly hovered in front of him.


    "Yeah but I want a running start." Ricky clarified, a mischievous glint in his eye as he jumped onto the weapon, swaying back and forth, ready for the flight ahead.


    Rickt waved his arms all about to stop him from falling but when he caught his balance on the hovering sword, he fist pumped as if his suspicions were right.


    "This weapon is so f*cking cool." Ricky thought aloud, the ebony blade at his side emitting a faint, sour energy as if it was aware of his words.


    ''Ahem.''


    "What? We all know how cool you were back there, I thought it went unsaid." Ricky glanced down at the pitch-black blade that sat silently, its dark aura almost unreadable.


    ''I suppose it goes without saying.'' The Ebony Blade understood quietly, Ricky seemingly swaying through the air.


    If Ricky had to describe the feeling, it was like surfing with a hint of longboarding; the way the weapon swayed under his feet felt strikingly similar, smooth yet responsive.


    "Remarkable." Chester commented from the side, gazing at the spear that could bend to Ricky''s will while holding his weight.


    Then, in the next second, Ricky shot forward at a speed that left Chester in the dust. Chester flapped his wings tirelessly, struggling to catch up.


    As Ricky sped ahead, he noticed something in the horizon, something so distinct that it immediately caught his eyes, a burning cross.


    He glanced down at it, suspicion creeping into his mind as his eyes gleamed green, his sovereign aura radiating from him, as if the very air around him responded to his focus.


    The Necronium hovered at his side, flipping open to one of its familiar pages as the spell ''Search'' resonated in the air, guiding his gaze to a figure concealed within the distant treeline.


    "Ha~" Ricky''s eyes glinted, his gaze piercing through the trees as every detail sharpened in his vision.


    Instead of rushing to confront the ominous sight, he simply smiled, the mystery only adding to his sense of calm.


    "Hold Alexander for me." Ricky said, handing the gerbil to Chester who raised an eyebrow, clearly unsure, but relented nonetheless.


    Hovering above the mass congregation of white-clad figures, Ricky''s smile grew wider, his expression twisting with anticipation.


    Slowly, he took a step forward in the air, then, without warning, plummeted toward the ground, his descent as swift and purposeful as a storm unleashed.


    "Today we judge not a man, but a beast-" The grand wizard announced as Marshall was bound up behind him.


    BOOOM


    A massive cloud of dust, dirt, and debris exploded into the air, the shockwave reverberating through the ground.


    All eyes that had been focused on Ricky now snapped toward the source of the commotion, the once-calm air now thick with tension.


    The figures in white froze, as if waiting for the storm to settle, unsure of what would come next.


    "Woah, woah, woah. Why wasn''t I invited to this party, I mean, I''m Marshall''s plus one?" Ricky laughed out, walking from the debris and spreading out his arms in a welcoming gesture.


    "Oh hey, look, I already see a familiar face. How are you doing, Marshall?" Ricky called out with a grin, his voice cutting through the chaos.


    Marshall, blood drooling from his mouth, slowly lifted his head, his eyes dull with exhaustion as he sighed deeply, the weight of the situation clearly taking its toll on him.


    "Just peachy, Ricky." Marshall muttered with a slight groan, clearly not thrilled by the sudden turn of events.


    "Good to hear man, probably would''ve been bad if you died before I got here." Ricky smiled, holding up his thumb as Marshall frowned.


    All the members of the Klan stared at Ricky with contempt, their faces twisted in disgust at the sight of him.


    Ricky, unphased by their hatred, surveyed the scene of their ritual with a calm, calculating gaze.


    Holding up his hands in a square, he took in the details, the fiery cross, the robed figures, the oppressive atmosphere as he exhaled slowly, his eyes narrowing with cold determination.


    "You know what, at first I wasn''t really into this whole burning cross thing, cause when you hear about it it sounds f*cking dumb, but I kinda see the appeal." Ricky tilted his head at the cross, rubbing his chin since seeing it is completely different then hearing about it.


    While Ricky was busy looking at the spectacle, a member dressed in robes walked behind him as he put a hand on his shoulder.


    "Now you listen here-"


    SPLAT


    Everyone froze, as still as a board, unmoving in the face of the sight before them as the oppressive silence hung in the air, thick with tension, until the only exception to the stillness was the one who had caused it, Ricky.


    His presence alone seemed to disrupt the unnatural calm, his stance unwavering, as if he were the eye of a storm, untouched by the fear that gripped the others.


    "But I really have to hand it to you all," Ricky said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.


    "I didn''t think you''d be this stupid." Ricky tossed the severed hand of the KKK member aside, watching it land with a sickening thud in the dirt.


    His gaze fell to the bloodied puddle beneath him, a grotesque mess of what had once been a person.


    Ricky''s expression remained calm, almost amused, as the shock of his brutality sank into the crowd.


    When the man touched Ricky''s shoulder, he reacted instantly, summoning a beam of solid psionic energy that materialized above the unsuspecting regular man.


    Then, with a brutal motion, Ricky smashed it down onto the man with unrelenting force.


    The man was obliterated in an instant, reduced to mere paste; a bloody, unrecognizable mess that splattered across the ground.


    Now, Ricky stood over the puddle of what remained, his eyes cold, devoid of any emotion and yet, he had this smile that sent shivers down anyone who looked at it.


    "Oh come on, don''t tell me you weren''t expecting retaliation?" Ricky chuckled darkly, his voice laced with amusement as he watched their pale faces, the fear evident in their wide eyes.


    They stood frozen, caught between disbelief and terror, unable to fathom what had just transpired.


    "Y-You can''t kill us-"


    "Oh, I''m going to stop you there." Ricky held up his finger at a young southern boy no older than nineteen.


    "Listen schmuck, I get what you''re thinking, how I was supposed to be some noble knight who wanted to do just a little good for mutant kind, right?" Ricky asked, the southern boy backing up only to have his collar yanked by him.


    "Right?" Ricky''s eyes gleamed green, staring deeply into the brown eyes of this naive and barely adult man.


    "Y-Yes?" The young man stammered, his voice shaking since he didn''t understand why, didn''t know how, but as he gazed into Ricky''s eyes, it was as if a shadow of death itself had settled over him.


    "And that''s how it was supposed to be, I was going to play this stupid fcking role of a goddamn savior then you, the racists, were supposed to hold the picket signs and tell me how much you hate me until I won then moved along from this godforsaken sht stain of a town." Ricky laughed out, disbelief in his own laugh as the guy started convulsing in his grip.


    "That was it, that was all you had to do!" Ricky''s voice raised to a higher octave along with his sovereign will, his green aura fluttering around him.


    "But of course, you just had to go and ruin it, make it more complicated since change, regardless of whether it''s good or bad, is never that easy." Ricky raised gaze, watching the guy foam at the mouth as his anger seethed to another degree.


    "But why, THE F*CK, DID YOU GUYS HAVE TO COME AT THE TIME WHEN I HAD A BUSTY BEAUTIFUL NAKED WOMAN IN MY GODDAMN ARMS!" Ricky roared out, slamming the guy onto the ground and breaking his vertebrae.


    "WHEN MY HANDS WHERE CRADING THAT GORGEOUS BODY WITH MY FINGERS NESTLED ON HER TITS, BUT NO, I COULDN''T F*CKING HAVE THAT!" Ricky yelled out, showing where his real frustration lay as the members backed up.


    "Help-" The guy reached out towards his colleagues, trying to escape only for Ricky to unsheathe his sword.


    SPLAT


    Horrified gasps echoed through the air, each breath laced with terror as all eyes were fixed, wide and unblinking, on the gruesome scene unfolding before them.


    Ricky''s hand remained steady as the ebony blade sliced through the air with brutal precision, cleaving the young man cleanly in two as the halves parted perfectly along the seam, collapsing to the ground on either side.


    A sickening slice echoed, embedding itself in the ears of the onlookers as they witnessed the gruesome yet precise spectacle.


    The man was severed so cleanly that blood erupted from the halves, cascading like a grotesque fountain.


    "I know what you''re thinking ''this guy is crazy''." Ricky said with a chuckle, drawing there attention, appealing to their point of view as he could almost hear the thoughts echoing in their minds, the fear and disbelief clouding their judgment.


    "But if you could, try to look from my point of view, okay?" Ricky continued, his voice now dripping with an eerie calm as he pointed to himself, the gesture almost mocking.


    Sigh


    "I mean come on, I can''t let you just roam free after you threw a molotov cocktail into my house." Ricky laughed, turning to the side while wiping his mouth and then shrugging.


    "I already made the mistake of letting that little sh*t run free and look where I am now, well, whatever. Mistakes are only mistakes if you don''t learn from them." Ricky tapped the ebony blade on his shoulder, looking at them before he then pointed the sword at them.


    "But like I said, I knew something like this would happen, in fact, I kinda expected it." Ricky placed a hand on his chest, explaining how it was supposed to go.


    "At first, I was just going to kill you all and be done with it after I won the trial, sending a message to your little community of white-robed assholes when this stupid case gets appealed so you wouldn''t bother me later." Ricky gestured to the group before him, his eyes never leaving their terrified faces.


    They tried to scatter, tried to run away from this monster before them, but an invisible barrier stopped them in their tracks, a wall of dread closing in on them. Ricky smirked, enjoying the sight of their helplessness.


    "But man, I''m just really f*cking angry." Ricky continued, his voice colder now, sharper, but still keeping his smile.


    "Like, instead of coming to me and trying to kill me, you took the sh*tty way out. You went after the people around me." Ricky shook his head, a dry chuckle escaping him as the members banged against the barrier.


    "Because all of you didn''t have the balls to face me directly, did you?" Ricky shook his head, waving his finger dismissively, a look of almost sick amusement on his face.


    "Not that I''m upset you tried it, I mean, you''re cowards, but the fact that you thought you could do it right under my nose? Come on now, really?" Ricky let the silence hang in the air for a moment, savoring the weight of his words.


    Now, Ricky would honestly do the same in their position, he''d take the cheap shot, the underhanded approach, if it meant getting what he wanted.


    But that was the thing about him, he was a hypocrite, and he knew it as he didn''t care about fairness or playing by the rules.


    The only thing that truly mattered was that they had crossed a line, his line, by going after the people around him.


    It wasn''t about right or wrong, it was about him.


    They had made a move on his territory, and that was unforgivable in his eyes as the hypocrisy didn''t bother him.


    If anything, it made the whole thing more satisfying since Ricky didn''t care about fairness, he cared about power, control, and making sure no one ever threatened what was his, not even indirectly.


    "SOMEBODY HELP!" The members screamed, banging desperately against the barrier.


    Ricky stood unmoved, his gaze cold and unfeeling as he watched the squirming humans with not even a shred of pity flickered in his eyes.


    Ricky knew that after this, he would kill many more, too many to count and yet, there was no flicker of hesitation.


    It was unsettling how little he felt as he looked at the mass of people before him.


    Maybe it was because they had gone after Raven when she was in his arms, or maybe it was because they had targeted those in his circle.


    Whatever the reason, the anger within him burned hot, but the emptiness remained where his hesitation of taking another human life should be.


    But Ricky honestly felt more angry with himself for letting it happen right under his nose.


    Even now, he struggled with keeping the people around him safe as it was a painful realization, he wasn''t as invincible as he thought.


    Still, this was a valuable lesson, one he couldn''t afford to ignore as he knew that even when things seemed to be going smoothly, everything could twist in an instant.


    And whether these screaming men wanted him to or not, Ricky would learn from this situation.


    "Now, let''s see what Chastiefol can really do," Ricky muttered, his fingers moving with precision as in an instant, the weapon shot forward, impaling one of the men with a sickening thud.


    COUGH


    "Oof, brutal," Ricky narrated, watching the scene unfold.


    The spear pierced through the man''s neck with ease, like molten butter, its sharp tip jutting out the other side.


    The man''s hands grasped at his throat, gasping for air as he slowly sank to the ground before Ricky flicked his finger casually.


    Then Chastiefold spun in a full circle, its edge slicing through the air with terrifying precision, ripping the man''s head clean off.


    Ricky bit his tongue, focusing intensely as he controlled the spear''s movements with a steady hand.


    The decapitated body crumpled to the ground, the head falling a few feet away, still fresh with the brutal mark of Ricky''s power.


    ''This is way harder than I thought.'' Ricky muttered to himself, his focus sharpening as he guided Chastiefol with precision.


    The spear sliced through the members one by one, each movement a delicate balance of power and control.


    With every swing, the weapon''s lethal edge tore through flesh and bone, sending bodies falling to the ground in a bloody heap.


    Ricky''s grip tightened, his jaw clenched, as he fought to maintain control over the chaos unfolding before him.


    It was like playing a game of Galactica for the first time as Ricky could feel the input lag, a frustrating delay that made it hard to fully grasp the controls.


    The spear obeyed his commands, but there was a slight hesitation, a lingering moment between his intention and the weapon''s movement.


    It wasn''t a huge delay, but enough to throw him off just when precision was everything.


    Despite the challenge, he pressed on, his focus unwavering as Chastiefold cleaved through his enemies, each swing more deliberate as he adjusted to the rhythm of control.


    The members were scurrying around like headless chickens, desperately trying to escape as Ricky turned them into mincemeat.


    One by one, they were sliced apart, their bodies falling to the ground in grotesque pieces.


    Ricky moved with ruthless efficiency, treating them as nothing more than training dummies, each swing of Chastiefol cutting through flesh and bone with ease.


    The Grand Wizard, watching the carnage unfold, realized he had only one means of escape, Marshall.


    As he reached out, desperate to grab him and flee, a barrier suddenly materialized around him, freezing him in place.


    The invisible force held him fast, and his gaze turned to Ricky, now standing at the center of the chaos, with a cold smile on his face.


    "There we go, I was waiting for someone to go after him so I could just crush anyone''s last bit of hope," Ricky chuckled from the side, his voice dripping with amusement at the Grand Wizard, realizing his escape was futile, slowly turned to face Ricky.


    His body trembled with a mix of fear and disbelief, his once-confident demeanor crumbling in the face of such overwhelming power.


    He dropped to his knees, his hands pressing into the dirt as he gasped for air, the weight of his impending defeat sinking in.


    "You can''t kill me! Do you know who I am?" The Grand Wizard stammered, his voice trembling with a mix of fear and arrogance and Ricky, recognizing the familiar tone, walked slowly toward him, his expression unreadable.


    "Judge Mason?" Ricky said in a scooby doo voice, unveiling his hood and looking upon Judge Mason.


    "You can''t get away with this, I''m-"


    "Oh, thank you, Lord! Oh, thank you!" Ricky interrupted him with a sharp, mocking laugh, mimicking a prayer toward the heavens before swiping his hand across the air with a sweeping gesture.


    SPLAT


    THUMP


    All the members around Judge Mason were decapitated in an instant and Ricky, opting to use his psychic powers rather than Chastiefol, found the maneuver far more efficient.


    The swift turnaround felt far more satisfying, as his mental control sliced through them with surgical precision.


    There was no way he would leave them alive, not after everything that had transpired.


    But he needed at least one alive for his plan to come to fruition, and it only made the discovery of Judge Mason within the fold all the more satisfying.


    "Oh, Chester~" Ricky hummed, his voice dripping with amusement as he grabbed Judge Mason by the neck, yanking him to the side.


    With a swift motion, he raised a wall of earth to shield themselves from prying eyes.


    Chester landed gracefully on Ricky''s shoulder, his eyes gleaming with understanding as he instinctively knew what Ricky wanted and without a word, he settled in, prepared for whatever came next.


    "And Chester, make sure to break his mind into mush, for me," Ricky joked, his tone light but with a dark edge.


    Chester''s eyes shifted to Judge Mason, who began to gasp for air, his body trembling in fear.


    The judge''s eyes widened, and the panic in his chest was palpable as Chester''s gaze locked onto him, a silent promise of the horrors to come.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    Far away, hidden in the treeline, Dewey and Hawkins stood frozen, their eyes wide with horror at the nightmare they had just witnessed.


    The chaos and brutality unfolding before them felt like something out of a twisted nightmare, yet it was all too real.


    Neither could tear their eyes away, the scene etched into their minds as they struggled to comprehend the violence they had just seen.


    "I-I didn''t know-" Hawkins gasped, his voice trembling as he shook his head in disbelief, sinking to his knees.


    The weight of what they had just witnessed seemed to crush him, his body unable to handle the sheer horror.


    Meanwhile, Dewey remained motionless, the camera in his hands clicking with a steady rhythm.


    His eyes were fixed on the unfolding carnage, almost detached, as he captured the twisted scene before him with a maniacal smile.


    "We got him, we f*cking got him!" Dewey laughed maniacally, his voice rising with a twisted sense of triumph.


    His eyes were wild, bloodshot, and filled with a dark satisfaction as he looked through the lens of the camera, capturing the destruction.


    Hawkins stared at the scene in utter horror, his gaze shifting from the carnage to the attorney general beside him.


    "Y-You knew, you tricked me-"


    "Oh, can it, Hawkins. You wanted to win just as bad as I did, and we succeeded," Dewey sneered, clicking the camera as he adjusted the hood of his jacket.


    Hawkins stood frozen, his face pale as he tried to make sense of what was happening as his hands trembled slightly as he gripped the ground beneath him.


    "I mean, forget just winning this case." Dewey continued, his voice growing darker with every word.


    "This will propel not only my career, but yours as well." Dewey laughed, the sound hollow and cruel, as his mind raced with the endless possibilities of what he could do next.


    He could already feel the power slipping into his grasp, the illusion of control intoxicating him.


    The twisted things he could unleash on Ricky danced in his thoughts, each more devious than the last and dreaming about all the things he would do to retaliate for all the years he had suffered under his shadow.


    "We''ll be heroes, saving our country from the evils of this bastard." Dewey spoke manically, his eyes wide with a feverish gleam.


    He pictured himself standing on a grand stage, surrounded by adoring faces, the crowd chanting his name.


    In his mind, the accolades poured in; awards, recognition, the respect of everyone who had ever doubted him.


    The applause was deafening, and he basked in the glow of his newfound power, as if the world owed him everything for ridding it of Ricky.


    "Now come on, we need to get this film processed before the start of my cross-examination," Dewey said with a cold, determined tone, grabbing the camera and quickly retreating as his footsteps were confident, almost too sure of himself, as he headed toward the car.


    Hawkins remained where he stood, his eyes hollow, staring at the ground as he felt a heavy and grueling weight in his chest, the sense of dread sinking deeper with each passing second.


    As Dewey disappeared into the distance, Hawkins remained motionless for a moment longer, the sound of his own shaky breath filling the silence.


    "What about judge Mason-"


    "Oh, who cares? He dug his own grave, and now he has to lay in it," Dewey said dismissively, shaking his head as he walked back to the car.


    "Besides, we can just find a stand-in judge." Dewey paused, glancing back at Hawkins with an almost mocking smile as his words were coated with a cold, unfeeling certainty.


    "You coming or what?" Dewey asked, his voice impatient as he turned toward the car.


    Dewey hadn''t even realized it, but the bravado of justice that he once wore so confidently, like a shield of dignity, had completely evaporated.


    The air of superiority, the puffed chest he''d carried like armor, was gone as in its place was something far more vulnerable, far less certain.


    Ricky''s intervention had shattered him in a way he couldn''t immediately comprehend, but the toll was clear in the subtle ways Dewey moved, spoke, and even breathed.


    He wasn''t the same man who had so easily deluded himself into thinking justice was a game he could win.


    The truth had hit harder than he expected, so much so that it left Dewey oblivious to what he had become.


    The righteousness that once coursed through his veins felt hollow, replaced with a gnawing desire for vengeance, anything to regain some control after the humiliation he''d suffered.


    His focus had shifted and even the notion of justice didn''t matter anymore, all Dewey cared about now was finding a way, any way, to finally break Ricky, to win this twisted war between them.


    As he glanced at Hawkins, sitting quietly in front of him, even Hawkins could see the weight of his own change pressing on him.


    Dewey wasn''t the imposing figure he used to be, the one he read about in his briefing as the dignity, the poise, all of it had crumbled, replaced with a man desperate for victory at any cost.


    Even the way he sat in the car was different as his back was hunched, shoulders tense, as if the weight of his failure and the knowledge that he had to do something, anything to restore his sense of power, were too much to bear on his own shoulders alone.


    The battle was no longer about law or justice, it was about personal redemption and that shift had changed everything, which only made Ricky smile while the car retreated.


    "Is that a good idea?" Chester asked, noticing the headlights shining through the trees, while Judge Mason sat slumped over, drooling from his mouth.


    "Yeah, tomorrow is going to be hilarious," Ricky laughed, already imagining the stupid look on his face.


    Ricky wanted to destroy Dewey, push him to the brink of despair and seeing how the fear of him was already creeping into Dewey''s mind delighted him.


    As he surveyed the corpses, a relieved expression crossed his face, feeling a little better as his anger settled.


    "Now let''s get to work."


    10 minutes later,


    With all the bodies thrown into a pile, Ricky had already drawn the necessary ritual symbols, rubbing his hands together with anticipation.


    ''Now get the f*ck up.'' Ricky raised the power output in his hands, the dark energy swirling around him as the corpses slowly began to stir, bathed in the twisted arts of necromancy.


    DING


    (Common) 50 x Crawler: A zombie with its legs damaged or missing, forcing it to drag itself along the ground. It''s slower than other zombies but can surprise unwary victims by attacking from below.


    "R-Ricky, what have you done-"


    "Chester." Ricky nodded to Chester, his voice calm despite the chaos.


    Marshall clutched his head in distress, his eyes darting around at the carnage, unable to comprehend the brutality that had unfolded.


    "I-how could you-why?" Marshall asked, seeing how brutal Ricky was in his actions and second guessing everything he was led to believe until now.


    "Just relax, Marshall. Look into Chester''s eyes," Ricky said, his tone almost soothing despite the bloodshed around them.


    Marshall hesitated, his gaze slowly shifting toward Chester, who stood still, his eyes gleaming with an unsettling calm.


    As Marshall locked eyes with Chester, his blinking slowed, a trance-like daze beginning to settle over him.


    "Marshall, you okay?"


    Then, in almost an instant, the scenery shifted as Marshall''s surroundings seemed to warp and distort, his eyes wide with panic as the world around him spun into an unfathomable blur.


    The once familiar landscape of corpses and blood faded away from his thoughts and sight.


    "W-What, where-"


    "Easy there, calm down." Ricky''s voice was soothing but firm as he placed a hand on Marshall''s shoulder, steadying him as Marshall''s eyes darted around in confusion, still caught in the haze of panic.


    He reached up to touch his head, feeling the bandages wrapped around it, his fingers trembling as he tried to make sense of the situation.


    "Listen, Marshall," Ricky began, his voice casual but tinged with a hint of concern.


    "You went out for a walk, but some dickhole threw a brick at your head. You almost died, man." Ricky paused, watching Marshall closely as the details of the false story took root.


    "How''re you feeling?"


    Marshall''s head throbbed slightly, but the lingering fog in his mind made it hard to piece everything together.


    The vivid memories of the chaos, the blood, and the strange, eerie feeling of death crept in, but they were already starting to fade, replaced by the fabricated narrative Ricky had woven.


    "Was it-"


    "Yeah, some Klan members were spotted in the area, but I found you and brought you back here," Ricky explained, gesturing to the half-burnt house around them as Marshall blinked, his eyes slowly adjusting to the dim surroundings as he took in the dilapidated state of the place.


    "THE TRIAL!" Marshall immediately stood up, his mind racing as he forgot the massacre Ricky had just orchestrated.


    He sprang to his feet, his urgency clear, as Ricky rose with him, a smirk playing at the corner of his lips.


    "Relax, it''s in an hour-"


    "I have to prepare, I have to-"


    "Calm down, you''ll be fine. Besides, I think we''ve got this in the bag," Ricky said with a reassuring smile, his confidence unwavering but Marshall, however, let out a heavy sigh, still visibly shaken from the ordeal.


    "If you say so."


    Meanwhile at a hotel,


    A gate opened, and Raven sat on the bed, engrossed in a book since after the entire scuffle, Ricky had returned to her, holding a bouquet of flowers.


    Raven accepted the bouquet with a smile, placing it gently on the nightstand as the vibrant colors of the flowers added a touch of brightness to the room, contrasting against the otherwise somber atmosphere.


    She''d decided to stay here with Ricky until he found a better place for them, though she couldn''t help but appreciate the small comforts that came with this temporary arrangement.


    As he stepped into the room, she looked up, a playful glint in her eyes. Spreading her arms wide, she gave him a welcoming smile.


    "Hey baby." Ricky chuckled, Raven putting the book down and crawling into his arms.


    "Hey tiger, how was the hunting?" Raven asked, pecking his cheek while laying in his arms as he kissed her head.


    "Good, but I need a favor."


    Author''s Note: Sorry for the late post I think fcking caught the flu again cause I woke up feeling like sht. So i ended up taking a nap for like half the day.

 Chapter 132 - 127: The Trial Has Been Flipped On It’s Head

    Chapter 132: Chapter 127: The Trial Has Been Flipped On It''s Head


    The next day,


    With patient steps, Hawkins moved quietly through the dim room, the soft glow of a red safelight casting an otherworldly hue around him.


    The subtle, eerie illumination bathed his figure in an ominous light, accentuating the grim set of his expression.


    His tired, hollow eyes lingered on the soft gurgle of water in the rinse tank, the faint tick of the timer echoing in his ears, which still rang with an incessant buzz.


    The low hum of the ventilation fan melded with the muted sounds, its steady drone seeming to smother the weight of his anxiety.


    Hawkins had been up all night developing the film, knowing it was crucial evidence that might make or break the trial.


    Yet, even if the opportunity to rest had presented itself, sleep would have been pointless as his mind churned too relentlessly, burdened by the gravity of what the images might reveal.


    That vivid imagery, the same haunting scenes that consumed his every thought, was on full display, not on the developing film, but in the restless theater of his mind.


    Desperate to sidetrack his spiraling thoughts, Hawkins pulled a film reel from its light-tight canister.


    Unlike his weary, bloodshot eyes, his fingers moved with unwavering precision, steady despite the unbearable weight of the task.


    The air was heavy with the pungent tang of chemicals; a sharp blend of developer, fixer, and stop bath that seemed to cling to every surface and almost seep into the walls.


    Before him sat the developer tray, its shallow pool of glossy liquid shimmering faintly under the safelight''s soft red hue, casting an ethereal glow across the workspace.


    Then, Hawkins submerged the film, his movements deliberate while his mind ticked through each step of the process like a mantra.


    "Thirty seconds," Hawkins murmured to himself, his voice barely audible above the faint rustle of the film reel unwinding, trying to keep his eyes focused and preparing himself for what was to come.


    Hawkins gently agitated the tray, his movements deliberate as he watched the blank frames gradually yield their secrets.


    Slowly, they melted away, giving form to the gruesome images of Ricky''s wrath in all its horrifying detail as each emerging shape seemed to twist the atmosphere tighter around him.


    The timer clicked, its sound sharp in the quiet room and Hawkins inhaled deeply, steadying his nerves as he moved the film to the stop bath.


    The acrid scent rose sharply, more pungent than the developer, stinging his nose and anchoring him to the grim reality of his task.


    He dipped his fingers briefly in the water to ensure the reel was fully submerged, wiping them on the cloth slung over his shoulder.


    The process demanded patience, precision, and an almost obsessive attention to detail, qualities he had cultivated over years in this dimly lit haven.


    This was his hobby, the one thing that was supposed to bring him joy, a reprieve from the chaos of life.


    Yet now, he could barely bring himself to look at his craft, the weight of its purpose eclipsing any semblance of passion.


    As the final rinse began, Hawkins leaned back for a moment, his shoulders sagging under invisible pressure.


    His tired eyes traced the soft glow of the safelight as it painted faint patterns against the walls, a fleeting distraction from the torment lingering in his mind.


    Finally, Hawkins hung the developed film on the drying line, the faint light catching on the droplets clinging to the edges, transforming them into tiny, shimmering constellations.


    But when the images, those grim scenes that already churned his stomach, were fully revealed, Hawkins froze.


    His eyes widened, his breath hitching as the stark reality of what he had captured unfolded before him.


    "It can''t be?!" Hawkins muttered, rushing forward, careful not to contaminate the delicate film with his fingers.


    His heart pounded in his chest as he leaned in closer, desperate to confirm what he already feared.


    But when his eyes locked onto the images once again, the horror of Ricky Luciano was there in its fullest, undeniable display.


    Bodies lay scattered, a gruesome testament to the violence unleashed,but there was something crucially wrong.


    Something was missing.


    Hawkins''s disbelief deepened as his eyes scanned the film again, and the chilling realization hit him like a blow.


    The one thing that should have been there, the thing he had been hoping to see, the very core of the nightmare, was gone.


    "He''s-"


    "A DEVIL, HE''S A DEVIL!"


    "KILL YOURSELF, GO ON AND KILL YOUR F*CKING SELF!"


    "DIE YOU FOUL DEMON!"


    "I''M GONNA F*CKING MURDER YOU, JUST YOU WAIT I''LL FIGURE IT OUT!"


    "Ah, like music to my ears~" Ricky sighed, taking in a deep breath as he stepped into the courthouse, the flood of hate and anger directed at him palpable in the air.


    "Thank you, thank you, I love you all!" Ricky turned with a dramatic flair, just in time to catch a tomato mid-air, thrown in his direction.


    Not even flinching, Ricky caught the tomato in his hand with relative ease as if he was playing catch with the crowd.


    "Ah, you guys~" Ricky placed a hand over his heart, staring at the ripe, not even slightly rotten tomato, as if it were the most precious thing in the world.


    "How did you guys know I skipped breakfast?" Ricky grinned, holding the tomato up like a trophy, his tone dripping with mock sincerity.


    "URGH, I HATE YOU, I HATE YOU, I HATE YOUUUUUUUUUUUU!" One of the protestors screeched, the very same one who threw the tomato at him.


    The crowd''s disdain was palpable, their jeers and boos cutting through the air as Ricky turned around, rubbing the tomato on his suit to give it that glossy shine before taking a deliberate bite while Marshall stood at the side, speechless, stunned by the audacity of it all.


    "Seriously?" Marshall sighed, his voice dripping with frustration as he followed Ricky inside, who was still scanning the room, seemingly unaffected by the hostility that surrounded him.


    "What? I''m f*cking famished, and I didn''t get a lot of sleep because-ah, there you are." Ricky''s words trailed off as his eyes landed on Dewey, who was standing off to the side, arms crossed, and looking like he''d been waiting for someone.


    "If it isn''t the pathological failure, Thomas Dewey himself," Ricky sneered, striding over to him.


    Dewey met his gaze head-on, unflinching, though a little hunched over as he had to tilt his slouched neck upwards.


    "If it isn''t the pathological murderer, Ricky Luciano himself," Dewey countered, his voice steady and cold as Ricky let out a laugh, a sharp, mocking sound, before holding up his hands in mock surrender.


    "Quite the accusation you''ve got there. Any proof?" Ricky asked, watching Dewey squint his eyes while recalling the brutal memory of Ricky slicing a KKK member like a vegetable.


    "To the last receipt." Dewey shot back in a seething tone, stepping closer, his eyes never leaving Ricky''s.


    Ricky simply gazed down at him, his smile condescending, as if Dewey were nothing more than a minor inconvenience to be dealt with.


    "Your reign of terror ends in that courtroom-"


    "Are you sure? Because I think it''s just beginning," Ricky taunted, his laughter echoing in the tense air.


    Dewey scoffed, his jaw tightening as he turned away, clearly not in the mood to entertain Ricky''s game any longer.


    "Well, I just can''t wait to see this proof you have. Marshall, let''s go." Ricky said with a smirk, turning and walking away.


    Dewey, unfazed, simply stepped aside, as if continuing to wait for something, his eyes fixed ahead, unreadable.


    "What do you think they''re scheming, it must be a last minute-"


    "Marshall, it''s fine, we''ve got this trial in the bag," Ricky said confidently, shooting Marshall a reassuring glance as the latter was once again left speechless.


    He strode into the courtroom, his posture relaxed as he took in the sight of Judge Mason receiving some documents at the bench.


    However that seemed to be an act when one truly looked closer, seeing that his eyes that were scanning the documents were hollow and his mouth was slightly open, seeping out a small stream of drool that was covered by the bustling papers.


    The air was thick with tension, but Ricky didn''t seem to notice, he was already sure of his victory and was only waiting for the singular intention that came from all of this.


    "What do you mean ''in the bag'', this trial is at its boiling point and-"


    "Will you calm down? Seriously, I got this, just trust me." Ricky said, walking over to the seat and plopping down with a grin, glancing at Marshall.


    Sigh


    "Maybe you should take your own case more seriously," Marshall remarked passively, his frustration evident.


    He was clearly unnerved, his perspective on the trial growing more grim with each passing moment and in his eyes, things weren''t shaping up well at all.


    "Listen, Marshall, you shouldn''t take life too seriously," Ricky said with a grin, offering a piece of his personal motto as he leaned back in his chair, the smile never leaving his face.


    "And why is that?"


    "Because you''ll never make it out alive," Ricky laughed, finding dark humor in the words and for some reason, Marshall felt a strange comfort in the irony, though he wasn''t sure why.


    Meanwhile, outside the courtroom, Dewey stood waiting, his gaze fixed on the door.


    Suddenly, it swung open, revealing Hawkins, who stepped through holding a packet with an almost queasy expression.


    "Dewey, we have a problem-"


    "We''ll worry about it later, we have to submit this as evidence." Dewey turned away from Hawkins, gazing down at the evidence with greed as the desire for beating Ricky had already consumed his patience.


    Nothing seemed to matter the moment that packet touched Dewey''s hand as the images of how he would take center stage resurfaced, blinding him in the spotlight of possibilities.


    It was only then that Hawkins reached out, calling out to him.


    "Dewey! DEWEY!" Hawkins shouted, his voice cutting through the room.


    Watching Dewey make the mistake that would ultimately cost him everything, Hawkins could only watch his hunched form scurry towards the double doors.


    His own greed had blinded him to the inevitable, and now, as Dewey stormed into the courtroom, his presence unmistakable, Dewey couldn''t resist sending a victorious glare Ricky''s way.


    The game had shifted, the table was about to be flipped, all by Dewey''s own doing, almost poetic.


    Meanwhile, Ricky leaned back in his chair, a sly smile curling on his lips, leaning back and enjoying the show rather than stopping him.


    Dewey, unaware of the trap closing in around him, turned forward toward the judge, his focus sharp, but his downfall already set in motion.


    "DEWEY-" Hawkins shouted, rushing in after Dewey only to find him already facing Judge Mason.


    "Your Honor, I have new evidence to support my lawyer''s claim that Ricky Luciano is, in fact, someone who abuses their powers, someone not only capable, but a clear murder!" Dewey exclaimed emphatically, holding out the packet just as the jury walked in, their eyes immediately drawn to the confrontation.


    "WHAT?!" Marshall shouted, taken aback by the boldness of the claim as he sprang to his feet, his voice rising in disbelief


    "This is highly unprofessional-"


    "Just look, these images show him caught in the act!" Dewey interrupted, his voice brimming with confidence as he saw victory within his grasp.


    Judge Mason, his brows furrowed in concern, took the packet, his hands steady despite the mounting claim.


    Dewey side-eyed Ricky, who was also curious, though his demeanor remained calm until he had a sudden thought on how to get a quick laugh.


    As Judge Mason slowly unfolded the pictures, Ricky''s eyes widened, and his hands began to tremble.


    Dewey''s eyes gleamed with anticipation, almost craving the scene unfolding before him as he watched, almost relishing, at what he thought was the almighty front Ricky always wore began to crumble.


    The once-impenetrable confidence in Ricky''s eyes was seemingly faltering, and Dewey could taste his victory.


    SNORT


    Until Ricky couldn''t contain himself any longer and covered his mouth, trying desperately not to ruin the moment, but the sight of Dewey, so desperate to see him fall, was too much.


    The urge to laugh bubbled up, and he just couldn''t stop it while covering his eyes while revealing his mocking smile before Dewey''s questioning eyes.


    "WHY ARE YOU LAUGHING, I CAUGHT YOU, I WON-" Dewey stormed over to Ricky, slamming his hands down as his disheveled appearance unveiled itself before him.


    "But, did you really?" Ricky asked, his fingers opening to look at his sure eyes as Dewey had an aching feeling forming in the pit of his stomach, turning back to Judge Mason finally looking at the images.


    "Y-You-" Judge Mason stammered, covering his mouth as he glanced at the photos and Dewey, his eyes wide with self-assuredness, turned to Ricky.


    "I followed Ricky Luciano last night after his house was burned down and captured an image of him slaughtering those responsible-" Dewey''s voice was almost relentless, clinging to the last shred of hope he had, desperate for the courtroom to believe him but Ricky, with an almost casual air, interrupted.


    "But, did you really?" Ricky asked, his voice smooth, reiterating his earlier challenge as a laugh escaped him while looking at Dewey.


    Dewey faltered, his smugness beginning to crack as he turned toward Judge Mason, now pale, his earlier confidence slipping as the weight of Ricky''s question lingered in the room.


    "What did you do?" Judge Mason''s voice was low and venomous, his gaze fixed on not Ricky but Dewey with a hateful glare.


    The room seemed to freeze as the words hit Dewey like a cold wave, his confidence now shattered.


    Dewey stood there, momentarily stunned, his mouth opening and closing as he struggled to form a response as the shock on his face was unmistakable, his plan unraveling in front of everyone.


    "W-What-"


    "Where in these pictures, of these men being SLAUGHTERED, IS RICKY LUCIANO?!" Judge Mason bellowed, turning the photos over in a frenzy, his voice rising with fury.


    He slammed the images down on the table, his eyes burning with anger as he stared at Dewey, who stood frozen in place.


    Dewey''s eyes shrank in disbelief as he looked at the photos, picking them up as he scavenged through the images for the sight that he had seen and yet, Ricky was nowhere to be found.


    He opened his mouth, but no words came out, the truth staring him in the face.


    Instead of Ricky slaughtering anyone, the photos revealed blurry images of men being torn apart in a chaotic, distorted, and unrecognizable way.


    The horror of the scenes was unmistakable, but what struck the deepest was the absence of clarity.


    In every frame, there was no sign of Ricky Luciano but even worse, Judge Mason''s face, which should have been a part of the scene in his position, was nowhere to be found as if the blurry flying object had purposely covered it in every scene.


    The absence was deafening, as if the images themselves were mocking Dewey''s claims.


    "I-I-"


    "These abhorrent pictures show no relation to our case." Judge Mason thundered, his voice laced with full-fledged anger as he slammed down his hand over the photos, his glare searing through Dewey.


    "These will be turned over to the authorities after this session, and the proper authorities will take over." Judge Mason''s voice was almost akin to a warning and yet, it all fell on deaf ears for Dewey.


    Who stood frozen, his body locked in place as the gravity of the situation sank in and his mind, once so confident and sure, was now spiraling into a mental breakdown.


    His breath hitched, growing shallow and frantic as the weight of his own failure crushed him as he couldn''t move, couldn''t speak before his body betrayed him as the reality of his defeat shattered every ounce of composure he had left.


    "B-But I saw-"


    "TAKE YOUR SEAT, THIS MATTER WILL BE HANDLED AFTER YOUR CROSS-EXAMINATION!" Judge Mason screeched at Dewey, his voice trembling with a mixture of fury and disbelief.


    Not only was Judge Mason consumed with anger, but a deep sadness began to settle in as well.


    His eyes fell on the photos, and the truth sank in like a heavy stone as these weren''t just random victims, these were his friends.


    People he had grown up with, shared memories of his community, watched grow up, and fought alongside.


    The realization tore at him from the inside out and it was because of this expression that Ricky had a devious smile, watching it all unfold as everything he could''ve ever wanted.


    Dewey was speechless, his mind racing as the courtroom''s weight pressed down on him as this wasn''t how it was supposed to go.


    He had meticulously planned everything, every detail to bring Ricky down, to expose him for what Dewey had convinced himself he was.


    But now, standing frozen in the wake of his failure, Dewey''s gaze flickered towards Judge Mason.


    The realization hit him like a punch to the gut as Judge Mason shouldn''t be here, not in this moment, not witnessing this chaos.


    And as Dewey turned his eyes toward Ricky, he saw something unsettling.


    Ricky''s calm demeanor hadn''t changed; in fact, it seemed to intensify and because of it Dewey''s breath hitched when he saw Ricky''s lips move, slowly, deliberately, mouthing two words.


    ''A cockroach.''


    "Court is in session. Defendant, take the stand," Judge Mason hissed, his voice dripping with venom as he fixed Dewey with a glare brimming with contempt.


    Hawkins pinched the bridge of his nose, watching Dewey who rose with a hollow gaze.


    Confusion clouded his face as he walked to the stand, unable to grasp how things had spiraled so far out of control.


    "Mr. Marshall, please proceed," Judge Mason gestured to him, his tone unexpectedly calm, almost favorable.


    Marshall hesitated for a moment, caught off guard by the shift, but quickly composed himself and approached Dewey.


    "Mr. Dewey, you claim your unlawful stop of Ricky was justified due to his supposed risk to public safety and in the interest of complete protection. Is that correct?" Marshall asked, his voice steady as he scrutinized Dewey''s hollow gaze.


    "Yes, Ricky Luciano is a threat and needed to be handled with precaution," Dewey declared, his voice faltering slightly as he glanced toward the jury.


    Their faces reflected a mix of confusion and suspicion, the earlier display of photos still looming over the courtroom and in the minds of all those who didn''t catch a glimpse.


    Meanwhile, at the defense table, Ricky''s stand, Shadow Broker, idly ripped a piece of paper, the subtle sound cutting through the tense silence like a whisper of defiance as if proning those wonders to the surface and even further.


    "Could you say that you were acting without bias and entirely in favor of national security?" Marshall asked, his tone sharp as he locked eyes with Dewey.


    "Yes, I believe I was doing the right thing at the time-"


    "So this had nothing to do with the former Detective Albert?" Marshall asked, his voice steady but pointed as he leaned in slightly as Dewey''s jaw tightened, his glare snapping to Marshall like a whip.


    "Objection, relevance-"


    "Overruled, continue your questioning," Judge Mason''s voice cut through the courtroom like a blade, shocking everyone present.


    Hawkins stood frozen, his mouth slightly agape as he exchanged a glance with Dewey, who looked equally blindsided.


    The jury''s murmurs grew louder, their confusion palpable, while Marshall stood there, thinking that this was only something that would happen in his dream and yet, Judge Mason ruled in his favor.


    "I''m sorry your honor, could you repeat that-"


    "I SAID OVERRULED, NOW SIT DOWN!" Judge Mason''s voice boomed across the courtroom, silencing everyone.


    Hawkins flinched visibly and quickly sank into his seat, his face pale and his hands trembling slightly as he fumbled with his notes.


    "Mr. Dewey, answer the question." Judge Mason''s voice cut through the courtroom like a blade once more, his gavel aimed toward Dewey with an unmistakable glare.


    "No-"


    "Then you''re saying you didn''t visit Ricky Luciano''s father and threaten him? Nor did you approach Ricky without his parental guidance to do the same when he was still, in fact, a minor?" Marshall asked, his words pressing down on him as he gestured toward Dewey.


    His composure faltered for a brief moment, his gaze darting towards to the side to Ricky, seated with an air of smug confidence, barely contained his laughter, a mocking grin playing on his lips.


    Dewey''s eyes were bloodshot at this, his nails digging into his palms with a soft trickle of blood dropping onto his pant legs.


    "I-" Dewey began, his voice catching in his throat as his eyes flickered to Judge Mason.


    The weight of realization hit him like a freight train since Judge Mason, very much alive, glared down from the bench with an expression that combined disdain and rage.


    Dewey''s words faltered, his confidence draining visibly as beads of sweat began to form on his forehead.


    ''Why is he still alive-wait.'' Dewey''s mind spiraled, the courtroom walls seeming to close in as fragmented thoughts battled for clarity.


    Suddenly, Dewey shot up from his seat, the tenuous thread of restraint snapping as realization completely dawned upon him.


    His instincts to hold back dissolved completely, and with reckless abandon, he threw caution to the wind, his finger trembling as he pointed it squarely at Judge Mason.


    "You''re in on this! You''re taking his side!" Dewey yelled, his baffled accusation directed squarely at Judge Mason.


    The room erupted into gasps and murmurs, jurors exchanging uneasy glances while Hawkins buried his face in his hands, visibly cringing at the outburst.


    Judge Mason froze, his gavel hovering midair, his expression morphing from surprise to unfiltered indignation.


    "Mr. Dewey, you best watch those words-"


    "No way would you have allowed this negro to speak out of turn towards us otherwise," Dewey shouted, his voice dripping with venom as his eyes darted around the courtroom as if seeking allies among the stunned audience.


    "They clearly have something on you, maybe some dirt, some leverage-"


    "Mr. Dewey, another word and I''ll hold you in contempt-"


    "HOLD ME IN CONTEMPT? HE SLAUGHTERED YOUR FRIENDS IN THE KK-"


    "THAT''S IT! I HOLD THOMAS E. DEWEY IN CONTEMPT!" Judge Mason thundered, his voice echoing through the courtroom as he slammed his gavel down with such force it seemed to shake the entire room.


    "BAILIFF, TAKE HIM AWAY!"


    The bailiffs sprang into action, closing in on Dewey, who lashed out in a desperate frenzy, struggling against their grip.


    "YOU''RE ALL IN ON THIS!" Dewey screeched, his voice cracking as he flailed.


    "YOU''RE ALL UNDER HIS CONTROL, AND YOU DON''T EVEN KNOW IT!"


    His wild accusations hung in the air, the courtroom plunged into a stunned silence save for the echoing sounds of his protests as he was forcibly dragged out.


    The jury exchanged uneasy glances, their earlier confusion now mingled with disbelief at Dewey''s complete breakdown.


    Meanwhile, in the corner, Shadow Broker remained eerily calm, methodically tearing away another strip of paper the sound almost inaudible but strangely foreboding.


    All the while Ricky watched the spectacle unfold, leaning back in his chair with his hands behind his head as if this was everything he wanted it to be and more.


    Ricky could''ve done more, he could''ve intervened or had Marshall speak on his behalf but there was this unnerving satisfaction in watching Dewey spiraled further into the depths of his own madness, his grip on reason slipping with every frantic accusation and outburst, without him having to do a single thing.


    The best part was it was a slow unraveling, one that Ricky had orchestrated with precision.


    Piece by piece, Ricky had chipped away at Dewey''s credibility, exposing the cracks within his being and his testimonies for all to see.


    It was as if everything that Hawkins had based his argument on, his case, all whittled away under Dewey''s outburst.


    "Your Honor, I''d like to proceed with a motion to strike Mr. Hawkins'' comments regarding Mr. Dewey being a reasonable and capable official." Marshall said, rising to his feet and adjusting his tie.


    "Given the events that have just unfolded, I believe Mr. Dewey''s mental stability should be called into question and cannot serve as a reliable basis for such statements-"


    "Objection-"


    "Overruled," Judge Mason declared firmly, his gavel slamming down to punctuate the decision.


    "Strike it from the record, and I ask the jury to disregard his remarks entirely in your deliberations." Judge Mason turned his hollow gaze toward the jury, who exchanged uncertain glances, clearly grappling with the chaotic turn of events that had just happened.


    "Cross-examination has ended. We will reconvene once the jury has made their decision," Judge Mason declared, his voice cutting through the tension in the room and Hawkins, unable to contain his growing panic, slammed his hands onto the table, his voice rising in frustration at the unraveling of this case before his very eyes.


    "YOUR HONOR-"


    BAM


    "Session dismissed," Judge Mason declared, his voice laced with finality as he squinted his eyes, his expression heavy with the weight of the proceedings as he turned and walked toward his chambers, his steps deliberate and unwavering.


    "Man, this is not looking good for you." Ricky said from the side, his voice dripping with mockery as he looked at Hawkins.


    His shoulders slumped as he ducked his head, realizing the case was slipping further away with every passing second.


    The walls seemed to close in around him, and the weight of the courtroom''s scrutiny felt heavier than ever.


    Ricky, savoring the moment of victory, let out a chuckle, watching as Hawkins struggled with the inevitable.


    Hawkins couldn''t even bring himself to look Ricky in the eye as he hastily gathered his things, his hands trembling slightly as he packed up the paperwork.


    Without a word, he quickly exited the courtroom, heading straight for the county jail.


    The weight of the day''s events pressed on him, and the realization that his position was crumbling left him with an overwhelming sense of dread as he had lost control, and there was no going back.


    Meanwhile, Ricky, his victory palpable, had no intention of basking in the courtroom''s aftermath.


    As if he knew of the sight to come, he quietly followed after Hawkins who was chasing after Dewey being dragged away by the soles of his shoes.


    Meanwhile outside the local police station,


    "Thomas Dewey, you''re under arrest for conspiracy to commit murder and harboring dangerous information." The officer''s voice was cold as he pulled Dewey''s hands behind his back, securing the handcuffs with a sharp click.


    Dewey, his face pale and his eyes wide with shock, stumbled as they guided him further into the department.


    "What is the meaning of this?" Hawkins burst into the room, breathless and disoriented, his mind still reeling from the courtroom drama.


    He barely caught a glimpse of Dewey being led away before the officers turned their attention to him.


    "Hawkins, you mean a lot to this community, and it pains me to do this, but you''re also under arrest for assisting in the murder." The officer''s voice was firm and emotionless as he approached Hawkins, the cold metal of the handcuffs clamping around his wrists.


    "On what grounds?!" Hawkins yelled, resisting arrest only for the cuffs to be wrapped around his wrists regardless.


    "On the grounds of Johnson''s girl." The officer repeated, shaking his head as if the revelation alone was enough to seal Hawkins'' fate.


    "She said that you and Dewey went out there to kill those young men. But what''s worse is that you actually handed the evidence to Judge Mason. What were you thinking?" The officer asked, knowing how easy it would''ve been if they had been able to pin it on the mutant.


    Everything was happening so fast, too fast for Hawkins to process as his mind was swirling, thoughts crashing against each other like waves in a storm, drowning him in a sea of confusion and regret.


    The walls of the small room seemed to close in around him, and the sound of his own heartbeat thundered in his ears, as if everything was moving in slow motion while his world spun out of control.


    "I-I-"


    "Judge Mason wants your heads, and I''ll be damned if they don''t roll," the officer muttered, his voice thick with frustration.


    He turned away, leaving Hawkins standing there, the weight of his words settling heavily in the air.


    The officer knew that the judge wasn''t just angry; he was vengeful, and he would make sure that Hawkins and Dewey paid for what they had done.


    As the cell door clanged shut, Hawkins found himself pushed inside, the cold steel bars closing in around him like a tomb.


    He barely registered the sound of the heavy lock turning, trying to piece together how things had gone so terribly wrong.


    He looked across the cell to Dewey, who was pacing near the bars, his frantic movements punctuated by angry mutterings.


    "I DIDN''T DO THIS-"


    BAM


    The cold, metal door clanged shut behind the officers, the sound reverberating in the small, dimly lit cell.


    With a heavy sigh, Hawkins slammed his forehead against the cold, unforgiving barsl.


    The sting of the metal pressing against his skin was nothing compared to the overwhelming sense of defeat and loss that surged through him.


    "Don''t you see, Ricky''s doing this-"


    "WILL YOU SHUT UP? WE''VE BEEN JAILED BECAUSE OF YOUR OBSESSION!" Hawkins screeched, his voice trembling as he turned to glare at Dewey.


    "We would''ve won if-"


    Sigh


    "Listen, all we have to do is not turn on each other and we''ll be fine." Dewey assured Hawkins, looking at the disheveled lawyer who was literally in a courtroom just ten minutes ago.


    Hours passed, and the two men sat in their cell until an officer emerged, escorting Marshall as he glanced at the two of them, his expression unreadable.


    "Hawkins, your lawyer is here to see you." The officer gestured toward Marshall and at the mention of him, Dewey shot up immediately, his eyes narrowing.


    "Hawkins, don''t do it-"


    "Back away, or I''ll be forced to use force," the officer warned, his hand resting on his sidearm which had his fingers slowly wrapping around his baton.


    Dewey hesitated but backed away, his eyes fixed on the officer as Hawkins glanced back at him.


    "I''m in over my head, Dewey. I''m sorry," Hawkins muttered, his voice tinged with regret.


    Hawkins stepped forward, his body tense with the weight of his words while Dewey gripped the bars of the cell, his knuckles white.


    "HAWKINS, YOU CAN''T DO THIS TO ME! NOT WHEN I''M SO CLOSE, HAWKINS!" Dewey screamed, his voice cracking as he gripped the bars tighter, watching Hawkins retreat down the hall.


    Hawkins didn''t turn around, his head hung low as he walked away, each step echoing in the cold silence of the holding area.


    "DON''T DO IT, DON''T GIVE INTO THAT DEVIL!"


    Led into an isolated room, Marshall and Hawkins stood in silence as the door clicked shut behind them.


    The atmosphere was thick with tension, the sterile walls and harsh lighting casting an unforgiving glare over everything.


    Marshall, his expression unreadable, was gathering the necessary paperwork and files from his briefcase, the rustling of paper the only sound in the room.


    Hawkins stood nearby, his hands clenched into fists at his sides, eyes darting between Marshall and the door as if expecting something, anything, to break the quiet.


    "I know it''s sudden but Mr. Luciano hired me on your behalf-"


    "Just cut to the chase," Hawkins sniffed, his gaze narrowed with disdain as he looked up at Marshall, the man he once considered beneath him.


    Marshall didn''t flinch as he calmly placed the papers on the table between them and pushed them forward.


    "This is a plea agreement." Marshall began, his voice steady and wondering how the hell Ricky managed to get one so quickly.


    "It states that you will receive full immunity, but in exchange, you''ll vouch that it was all Dewey''s plan and actions that led you down this path." Marshall tapped the highlighted section, the words clear and damning.


    Hawkins glanced down at the paper, his disheveled form slumped slightly in disbelief not at the plea, but at the conditions that went with it.


    "However, you will lose your license to practice law in the state of Texas," Marshall stated firmly, presenting the ultimatum.


    Marshall knew it was a tough pill for him to swallow and because of that, Hawkins let out a stiff, almost incredulous laugh in response.


    "Being a lawyer is my life, it''s all that I''m known for-"


    "What you ''were'' known for." Marshall corrected, his tone heavy with finality, knowing that after this, Hawkins would be nothing more than a disgrace.


    Hawkins looked up, his mental and physical appearance almost beaten to a pulp compared to who he once was.


    Standing across from the man he had once threatened with a plea deal, he now realized how far he had fallen, the irony of it all.


    "You were there, you saw what we saw, so how can you go along with that monster?" Hawkins asked, leaning in, his voice trembling with a mix of disbelief and helplessness as his eyes locked onto Marshall''s, desperate for some kind of answer, some glimmer of justification.


    "How could you take his side, how could-"


    "A negro take a mutant''s side?" Marshall misinterpreted his words since he couldn''t quite remember the events of that day due to Ricky''s interference.


    "Let me ask you a question." Marshall continued, his tone colder now while gazing at Hawkins.


    "How is it that you can live with yourself after causing so much pain?"


    Hawkins opened his mouth to respond, but the words caught in his throat as he paused, struggling to find anything to say.


    "Because I think I''m doing the right thing, for my kind." Hawkins let out an ironic laugh, a bitter edge to his words, before meeting Marshall''s gaze.


    "Then I guess we''re the same in that way. We''re just trying to do what we think is right for our people." Marshall looked down, his voice tinged with regret as he didn''t want it to turn out like this, but it felt inevitable.


    "Now sign the damn plea agreement." Marshall slid it forward, his voice laced with contempt for the first time as Hawkins stared at the document, unable to tear his gaze away.


    Hesitating, Hawkins reached toward the side and grabbed the pen, signing away his future for what he hoped would be his freedom.


    His hand trembled as he dotted the line, each stroke feeling like a weight being lifted and yet, a heavier one being placed in its place.


    Marshall took the paper, glanced at it one last time, then stood up but as he walked towards the doorway, stopping just before leaving.


    "For what it''s worth, I think you were a great lawyer," Marshall muttered, his tone softening for just a moment as he side-eyed Hawkins, watching the man''s face briefly crack.


    Hawkins didn''t respond, his eyes focused on the table, as Marshall turned and walked toward the door.


    The weight of the realization that his career was over pressed heavily on Hawkins.


    The agonizing process of being released from custody did nothing to ease the feeling of his world crumbling.


    No one was there to greet him as he stepped out of the police department, the streets eerily quiet.


    His torn suit hung loosely on his frame, a physical manifestation of his shattered life as he walked alone, his footsteps heavy, the darkness of the night reflecting the emptiness within him as he made his way back to his house, his once-proud home, now a hollow reminder of everything he had lost.


    Click


    Hawkins flicked the light switch, the harsh illumination flooding into the room as he saw Ricky standing by the bar, pouring himself a drink, his back turned.


    Hawkins'' eyes narrowed slightly, but he didn''t let his gaze linger and instead, he walked over to the nearby chair, slumping into it, the weight of the day dragging him down.


    Without a word, he reached for his own drink, the burn of old bourbon familiar, though it offered little comfort.


    "You really won." Hawkins muttered, his voice thick with exhaustion as he leaned his head back.


    "Almost." Ricky said, his tone light but edged with something deeper.


    "Marshall says this will be appealed at the Supreme Court, but the damage is done here at least." Ricky chuckled softly, the sound laced with a quiet satisfaction.


    Ricky poured another glass of bourbon, the liquid sloshing slightly in the bottle before he handed it to Hawkins.


    Gulping it on breath, Hawkins wiped his mouth while watching Ricky sit in front of him and sipping on his drink.


    "How?" Hawkins asked, his voice raw with frustration, the single word giving way to a torrent of unspoken questions but Ricky simply laughed.


    "Does it matter?" Ricky responded, his tone calm but piercing.


    "Will it help you get over everything you lost?" Ricky genuinely asked, knowing that if he truly wanted an explanation, then he''d give him one.


    "No, no it won''t." Hawkins admitted quietly, letting out a bitter laugh, shaking his head as he looked down.


    He wiped his eyes, sniffling as he gazed up at Chester, who landed gracefully on the coffee table.


    "A-Are you going to kill me?" Hawkins asked, his voice trembling with a mix of fear and disbelief as he watched Ricky take another sip from his glass before quietly setting it down.


    "I made the mistake of leaving Dewey alive years ago," Ricky said, his voice calm but heavy with meaning.


    "It was for my own selfish reasons, and sure, it made me better. But I won''t leave any more loose ends, not after him." Ricky said, reaching into his pocket, pulling out a pen and a piece of paper, and placed it on the coffee table as the quiet, deliberate motion sent a chill through Hawkins.


    "It''s unfair, knowing that your life is but a mere stepping stone towards my own ambitions, but the saddest part is that you don''t even have a choice," Ricky voiced, the weight of his words hitting Hawkins hard as his confusion shifted to shock before his shoulders slump and his eyes dilated.


    For a long time, Ricky observed Hawkins as he mechanically scribbled something on the paper, his expression hollow and distant.


    When he finally finished, Hawkins walked toward the corner where a rope and a chair stood, his movements slow and deliberate.


    He positioned the chair beneath him, wrapping the rope around his neck with a sense of finality.


    Without hesitation, he kicked the chair away, the sound of it scraping against the floor cutting through the stillness.


    "Let''s go, Chester." Ricky murmured, gesturing toward the bird as he turned away from the man. Chester promptly landed on his shoulder.


    A gate opened, and they stepped through it, the weight of the moment lingering.


    Meanwhile, Raven entered from a nearby door, her eyes scanning the room only to see that Ricky had returned.


    "I did what you asked but I won''t be able to always be here-"


    "Chester already took care of it while we were in court. She''ll believe exactly what we want her to." Ricky said, motioning to Chester perched on his shoulder as Raven smiled and walked up, scratching under his beak.


    "Remind me to never get on your bad side," Raven chuckled, pulling out a sunflower seed and offering it to Chester as he accepted it with a nod.


    "Accepted." Chester responded, approving of her gesture before flying off to join Alexander and enjoy the treat.


    "So, how does it look?" Raven asked, her smile betraying the anxiety in her eyes as she referred to the trial.


    "It looks really good. The jury''s going to meet, and it looks like we''re going to win," Ricky said, delivering the good news as a wave of relief washed over her, the tension in her shoulders easing as she exhaled.


    Raven rushed forward, leaping into Ricky''s arms as she grabbed the back of his head, pulling him close and nestling into his neck, her body relaxing in the warmth of his embrace.


    "You did so good." Raven whispered, squeezing Ricky tightly as they collapsed onto the bed.


    "Does that mean I get my good boy treat?" Ricky laughed, referencing their first encounter as she kissed him deeply on the lips.


    "It''s only fair."


    Next morning,


    "Jury, what is your verdict?" Judge Mason asked, his voice steady, though the tension in the courtroom was palpable.


    Everyone waited with bated breath, everyone except Hawkins, whose fate had already been sealed earlier in the day with it being revealed in his suicide note.


    At the front of the room, Dewey sat in his prison attire, his gaze fixed on the jury as his face was unreadable, but his eyes betrayed a sense of uncertainty.


    He had played his cards, but now it was out of his hands and he could only hope for a miracle that would never come.


    "We find in favor of Ricky Luciano, on all counts," The head juror announced, his voice firm.


    It was the same juror Marshall had tried to discredit earlier, the one who Ricky had decided to let in at the last moment.


    Heartache and despair were evident on Dewey''s face and those around him, their expressions heavy with defeat.


    Raven clutched her heart, tears streaming down her face as the weight of the moment hit her.


    Marshall, on the other hand, threw his arms around Ricky in a wild, almost manic hug, laughing hysterically as the relief washed over him.


    Ricky, however, remained composed, smiling at the verdict, but his mind was still working as he knew the war wasn''t over yet.


    "But we have found that the ten million dollars is insufficient to cover the damages incurred onto Ricky Luciano, and as such, we have decided to award him twenty-five million." The juror declared, his thick Southern accent heavy in the courtroom.


    He glanced at Ricky Luciano, who raised an eyebrow in response, before seeing the head juror give a slight nod to him.


    GASP


    Many in the courtroom gasped, Raven included, as the enormity of the decision settled in.


    This wasn''t just a historic win, it was the largest payout to date, a staggering sum that would leave an indelible mark on legal history.


    Raven''s eyes widened in disbelief, her heart racing as she processed the weight of the moment.


    "Then I find this case resolved."


    BANG


    The gavel slammed down, cutting through the chaos of the room as screams of disbelief and triumph echoed, drowning out the cheers of victory.


    Ricky glanced back at Raven, a mischievous grin forming on his face as he winked at her, his confidence unmistakable.


    The moment was his, and he knew it.


    "Ricky we need to-"


    "I know but first, let''s go make history." Ricky said, ushering Marshall toward the door as the courtroom was filled with a mix of hate and applause as they made their exit.


    The atmosphere outside was thick with disbelief, the intensity of the reactions escalating to an almost unfathomable level since no one could quite grasp what had just happened.


    "MR. LUCIANO, OVER HERE!" a reporter shouted, the blinding flashes of cameras and broken light bulbs buzzing around Ricky as he stood tall before it all, a sleazy smile playing on his lips.


    This wouldn''t only be a defining moment for Ricky, but for history as this photo of him laughing amidst the crowd would go on to be put in textbooks that would later be distributed in schools nationwide.


    "MR. LUCIANO, WHAT DOES THIS WIN MEAN?" The reporter pressed eagerly.


    "One small step for man, and one giant leap for mutant kind!" Ricky laughed, twisting the iconic quote to fit his own narrative as reporters scrambled to scribble it down in their notepads.


    "Anyway, I''ve got a lot of celebrating to do, so I''ll hold another conference when I get back to New York." Ricky raised his hand, signaling the end of the conversation as he walked off with Marshall.


    The screams of hatred roared after him, but Ricky paid them no mind as he effortlessly yanked Marshall and walked across a psychic bridge, hovering over the crowd.


    The onlookers stood frozen in shock, unable to process what they were witnessing.


    Flashbulbs popped as photographers scrambled to capture the surreal moment, eager to make headlines with the extraordinary scene.


    Ricky pulled Marshall through the chaos, heading to a private location where the rest of the group had gathered.


    1 hour later,


    Soon after, they sat around a lavish table, piled high with the finest food money could buy.


    Ricky, with a grin on his face, reveled in the occasion, making sure every detail of his celebration was as extravagant as the victory itself.


    The restaurant owner, eager for the generous bribe of two thousand dollars, had ensured the space was prepared to perfection, creating an atmosphere of wealth and excess to match the moment.


    Ricky''s gaze drifted to the window, and there, walking down the street, he spotted the head juror.


    The man was strolling with his daughter, who tugged playfully at his shirt as the head juror raised an eyebrow when his daughter pointed in Ricky''s direction, her little finger aimed straight at him.


    The juror''s eyes followed the gesture, locking onto Ricky with a mixture of recognition and curiosity as it was then that he whispered something into his daughter''s ear.


    The girl beamed up at him, smiling brightly before turning back to Ricky as she waved enthusiastically before her eyes blinked, horizontally.


    The head juror had spent his entire life in this town, steeped in its traditions, its biases, and its expectations.


    He had learned, like everyone around him, to see the world through a certain lens but everything changed the moment he became a father, a father of a mutant.


    Ricky let out a surprised chuckle, the irony of it hitting him with full force as he nodded to the man, acknowledging the unspoken bond between them.


    The juror returned the gesture, his face softening with a knowing smile, one filled with gratitude and quiet understanding.


    As they continued down the street, the juror walked on with his daughter, their steps slow and steady.


    He wouldn''t be anything more than what he was right now and everything he would benefit from had come through Ricky''s own ambition.


    Yet, it was enough for this sheep, this father and his child, navigating a world that had just become a little more complicated, but a little more forgiving to be herded in.


    "Wow." Raven rested her head on her hand, gazing at Ricky with clear affection as he turned to face her.


    Jake, Asterion, Marshall, and the rest of the familiar faces were laughing and enjoying the whiskey flowing into their glasses, while these two remained in a sort of separate world, absorbed in their own quiet moment.


    "Did I just take your breath away?" Ricky asked with a sly grin, cutting into his steak as she chuckled softly.


    "I''m just-well, a little jealous," Raven admitted, glancing down at her food as Ricky shook his head, a knowing smile tugging at his lips.


    "You shouldn''t be, you''ve done the same-"


    "But in the shadows, I''m jealous that you did it all without hiding from the world," Raven said, her voice thick with emotion as she looked up at him and Ricky reached out, taking her hand in his.


    "Then stand with me, don''t just fade back but stand smugly with me." Ricky smiled warmly at her, Raven letting out an anxious laugh.


    "You don''t need me-"


    "But I want you by my side, and that''s enough." Ricky interrupted her with his tender words, Raven looking up at him before quickly looking away.


    "I want this to be real, I really do, but I''m not going to force you here," Ricky lied, his thoughts already spinning with ways to bind this exotic woman to his side as she looked up at him.


    "Oh tiger, you''re a real charmer."


    "Only for you, baby," Ricky winked at her, and Raven, deciding to embrace the moment, let the good vibes flow as they held each other''s hand throughout the dinner.


    Hours passed, liquor flowing and the food devoured before Ricky slowly stood up with a champagne glass and a knife.


    Clink


    Clink


    "Aye, all of you shut up, I want to make a heartfelt toast!" Ricky chuckled, clinging the knife against the glass to get their attention.


    Slowly, they all stopped what they were doing and looked at them, some, Alexander mostly, were more sh*tfaced then others as the gerbil was only propped up due to Chester''s sincerity.


    "First, I want to thank my lawyer Marshall, who had the absolute balls to walk into the tiger''s den without any fear." Ricky tipped his glass to Marshall, the lawyer tipping his own glass with a tooth smile.


    "Job ain''t over yet!" Marshall, a little drunk off the champagne and vanilla flavored whiskey, shouted as everyone around laughed.


    "Damn straight, but I wanna take the time to really say, you know, thank you for putting up with my sh*t." Ricky honestly spoke from the heart, knowing the piece of work he could be at times and thanking everyone for putting up with it.


    "From Asterion, the literal creation of a Greek god, who decided he wanted to see the world with me." Ricky pointed his glass to Asteiron, watching the mighty Minotaur completely devour a barrel of vanilla flavor whiskey at the side.


    "To my familiars, who always offer me advice when I need it most or sometimes when I don''t," Ricky smiled at Alexander and Chester, with Garfield pushing himself into view and shrugging playfully at him.


    "But I want to take some time to thank my oldest friend here, Jake." Ricky then turned to Jake who was at the side, rubbing his arm only to see the attention turned to him.


    "I know it''s been rough lately, and I know you might''ve felt outta place, but I''m glad you''re here, man." Ricky nodded to Jake, acknowledging the tough times he''d been through and appreciating his presence.


    "Thanks, Slick." Jake smiled, nodding to him with an appreciative expression before Ricky turned to Raven who rolled her eyes.


    "I''d also like to thank the beautiful Raven here for being my motivation through all of this, cheering me on from the sidelines," Ricky said with a laugh, watching Raven shake her head and lean back, arms crossed, clearly trying to act unimpressed.


    "How she dances around in such skimpy attire all for my pleas-"


    "RICKY!" Raven''s face immediately blushed, throwing a napkin at him since he was going too much into detail as he pulled it off his still smiling face.


    "But most of all, I''d like to take the time to thank myself." Ricky said, raising his nose and placing a hand on his heart as everyone rolled their eyes.


    "How crazy handsome and downright ballsy I am to even do this in the first place. I mean, I cut through the odds like my jaw cuts through granite." Ricky laughed, rubbing his chin as his narcissism flared to its peak, clearly basking in his own glory.


    "God, and can we take a moment to appreciate how I said I''d win, then I went out and won-"


    SIGH


    Everyone let out a unified sigh, clearly over it and eager for Ricky to wrap it up already and with a dramatic flourish, he raised his glass high.


    "TO ME!" Ricky declared boldly, his grin wide.


    The others laughed, rolling their eyes, but couldn''t help themselves as they lifted their own glasses in unison, indulging him for the moment.


    "To Ricky!"


    (READ) SICK NOTE: Hey guys, I feel like I''m f*cking dying and at first it wasn''t so bad until I got halfway through the day then it felt like everything around me was spinning. It''s why I don''t think I can do a chap tommorrow which is why it will be pushed to wedsday instead of sunday to make up for it.

 Chapter 133: Chapter 128: Worlds Revelation

    Chapter 133: Chapter 128: Worlds Revelation


    ?


    The next day,


    Meanwhile at the white house,


    In the grandeur of the Oval Office in which history was made time and time again, Franklin Roosevelt sat behind his resolute desk reading it, his gaze fixed on the newspaper before him. Bold letters proclaimed, ''One Small Step for Man, One Giant Leap for Mutantkind.'' Beneath the headline, a photograph of Ricky''s smug face grinned back at him, an almost silent mockery that so audaciously showed his smug face not to him, but to the world.


    It was as if Ricky had pulled back the curtains on himself, orchestrating a grand reveal in the most narcissistic manner possible.


    His sheer audacity shattering the equilibrium that was so carefully set for their way of lives, forcing everyone around him to confront his presence and, for better or worse, truly consider him.


    Once Roosevelt had seen enough of that smug smile, his gaze trailed downward to a column recounting the massacre allegedly orchestrated by Dewey and the suicide of Hawkins, reportedly consumed by guilt.


    Eventually, Franklin set the paper down with a deliberate motion as his steely gaze shifted to his cabinet, clasping his hands tightly together, the tension in his knuckles mirroring the weight of the unfolding crisis.


    "How?" Franklin uttered the single word, his voice heavy with restrained fury.


    It ignited a wave of discomfort and dread in the men seated before his desk, the same advisors who had assured him, with misplaced confidence, that none of this would come to pass.


    "Mr. President-"


    "HOW COULD YOU LET THIS HAPPEN?" Franklin roared, his voice reverberating through the


    room.


    He slammed his fist onto the desk with a resounding thud, silencing any attempt at excuses before they could be uttered.


    His glare sliced through the air, an invisible blade poised at the throats of each man before him.


    One by one, they swallowed hard, the weight of his unspoken demand for accountability pressing heavily upon them.


    "We did everything you asked, we put a judge that would favor Mr. Dewey, the best civil lawyer in the state-"


    "AND WE LOST, AGAIN!" Franklin bellowed, his voice cracking under the strain of frustration.


    He clutched his forehead, grappling with the burgeoning enigma that was Ricky Luciano, a force, a cockroach that seemingly never died no matter what they threw at him.


    It felt as though Ricky would crawl out of every rubble, every disaster thrown at him, unscathed and defiant.


    The relentless resilience wasn''t just grating on Franklin''s nerves, it was beginning to shake the very foundation of his presidency.


    When people think of a presidency, they cling to the misguided notion that a legacy is defined by the time spent in office.


    But presidents, officials, and politicians understand the truth: a legacy isn''t cemented in the present.


    It''s forged in the reflections of a nation, fifty years down the line, when history decides whether they were visionary leaders or cautionary tales.


    Franklin D. Roosevelt was one of those individuals deeply obsessed with his legacy and image.


    This fixation shaped every decision he made, every word he spoke, molding his presidency into one meticulously crafted for the history books.


    Before the war, before that great war that triumphed over everything that Franklin D. Roosevelt had done, he was known for something called the ''New Deal''.


    Franklin D. Roosevelt''s presidency had already left an indelible mark on the nation and his legacy was slowly being built upon this revolutionary bill.


    His New Deal had brought both hope and controversy, reshaping the relationship between the government and the American people.


    In the short term, New Deal programs provided much-needed relief, lifting the lives of those crushed by the weight of the Great Depression.


    But in the long run, they established a lasting precedent, firmly embedding the federal government as a central player in the nation''s economic and social affairs, an influence that would continue to shape the country for generations to come.


    It was why even now, Franklin D. Roosevelt was considered a champion of the working class, a president who cared deeply about ordinary Americans as his Fireside Chats, a series of evening radio addresses given by Franklin D. Roosevelt, fostered a sense of personal connection and trust.


    For all he was, Franklin was a visionary of a president but before the outbreak of World War II, Roosevelt''s foreign policy was focused on maintaining isolationism, reflecting the general mood of the American public.


    However, he subtly prepared the nation for the possibility of involvement by strengthening the military and supporting allies like Britain through programs like Lend-Lease, which faced criticism from isolationists.


    As widespread as the applause for his actions was, so too were the voices of his critics.


    They accused him of overreach, branding him a socialist or even a dictator for the


    unprecedented expansion of federal power.


    Business leaders, in particular, resented his regulatory policies, viewing them as a threat to the autonomy and profitability they had long enjoyed.


    It was because of these powerful critics, the very same who sought to dismantle everything


    Franklin D. Roosevelt had built, that they began searching for any chink in his armor.


    What they were slowly discovering, however, was that the threat came from an unexpected


    source: Ricky Luciano.


    Which actually started to force the actual president''s hand.


    "From now on, all decisions involving Ricky Luciano will run through me," Franklin commanded, his voice steady but firm as it was time for him to fully step in.


    "Civil unrest during this time will be detrimental to America." Franklin''s cabinet nodded in agreement, understanding the gravity of the situation and the necessity of this new directive. "File an appeal with a different lawyer for the Supreme Court." Franklin ordered, his tone unwavering.


    "Tell them to push every case they have to steamroll this one through. We must crush him thoroughly." Franklin knew that cases like these typically took around a year to resolve, but he couldn''t afford to wait that long as this situation was far too urgent, wasting even a second could destroy his polling.


    His presidency couldn''t be defined by a blunder involving a mere mutant, nor could it set a precedent for civil unrest.


    Franklin saw the bigger picture, a vision stretching far into the distance.


    America needed unity under him now more than ever, especially as the shadow of war loomed


    on the horizon.


    The stakes were higher than personal vendettas; the survival of the nation itself was at risk and there was only one man who could lead the way.


    "I want this trial to be over in a month. Do you all understand?" Franklin''s voice was firm, his hands resting above his desk as he shot a demanding glare at the men before him.


    Franklin was well aware of the weight of his words as he didn''t need to say more since they would bow to his will, and they would get the job done.


    "Yes, Mr. President."


    Meanwhile in an undisclosed location,


    "So, he managed to come out victorious?" A man wearing a Nazi symbol asked, his eyes


    narrowing as he studied the paper with an unsettling curiosity.


    "Shaw, this is no time for admiration. We have a vote to consider," a woman with blonde hair


    said, her smile warm but her tone laced with a hint of snark.


    "Such an interesting specimen." a man in white mused, holding up the picture of Ricky walking on air and pulling the image right next to his eyes.


    Selene smiled gracefully, her eyes glinting with quiet amusement at the spectacle as she


    leaned on her hand.


    "Settle down, Nathaniel, you''re drooling," Selene quipped with a playful smile. Nathaniel chuckled, wiping his mouth before casually slapping the picture down on the counter and


    leaning back in his seat.


    "Well, is there anyone here who opposes his induction into the Hellfire Club?" Nathaniel asked, his gaze sweeping over the room.


    Selene side-eyed the woman in white, her expression unreadable, but the tension in her eyes


    spoke volumes.


    "If there''s ever a time to make a snarky comment, Emma, then this would be it," Selene said, her words sounding innocent, but the passive-aggressive edge was sharp enough to pierce Emma''s calm demeanor.


    "I''m actually saving it for a particularly nasty creature, rather hideous and frail, one that preys on the innocence of small children, and spend all my time remarking on all the flaws IT has," Emma fired back, her voice laced with venom while passively directing it at her.


    Selene let out a hollow laugh, the sound dripping with mockery, while Shaw cleared his throat, sensing the growing tension.


    "Then, let us send him an official invention when the hellfire ball arrives, all in favor?"


    "Aye."


    "Aye."


    "Aye."


    "Aye."


    "All against."


    "Then I guess we should expect Ricky Luciano''s arrival."


    Meanwhile, across the United States, the shocking revelation quickly spread, echoing through


    every corner of the country, Ricky Luciano had successfully won his case.


    Many tried to paint his victory as shady, but it was hard to do so when he had boldly ventured


    into enemy territory and emerged victorious.


    The sheer audacity of his success left little room for doubt; no matter the narrative they tried


    to craft, Ricky had proven himself a force to be reckoned with.


    The commission, especially, was on edge as Joe began sharpening his knives, preparing for


    the worst.


    The others watched closely, waiting to see his next move, as an emergency meeting was about


    to be called.


    But that was all put on hold by a bold, almost outrageous move that would forever seal the


    fate of Joe and one other.


    "Take care of it. You''re already in too deep to refuse," Joe menaced into the phone, his voice


    low and threatening.


    As he placed the receiver down, a chilling smile spread across his face, one that knew that this


    was the only way of really standing a chance.


    "Who was it, boss?" Joe''s right-hand man, Pinky Salvatore, asked from the side, his chest


    puffed with self-assuredness.


    Pinky was steady, level-headed, and the perfect counterbalance to Joe''s erratic and psychotic


    tendencies.


    For all of Joe''s volatility, it was Pinky''s unwavering loyalty and calm demeanor that made him indispensable or at least, that''s what others thought.


    But Pinky hadn''t earned Joe''s trust through obedience alone but through his sheer brutality


    that solidified his position.


    Nicknamed "Pinky" after his preferred method of handling overdue debts, chopping off the


    pinky fingers of those who dared ask for an extension, he was the most feared and effective loan shark in the Bonanno family which rarely ever let a debt go unpaid. "Nevermind that, how is the situation?" Joe waved his hand, dispelling the topic and asking only for Pinky to hesitate.


    "It isn''t good, the dirty money is flowing but when we go to clean in-"


    BAM


    Joe''s fist slammed on his desk, a vein protruding from his forehead as that budding rpoblem


    occurred once more.


    "Those f*cking pinkertons." Joe seethed, his voice a low whisper laced with venom as Pinky closed his eyes and nodded, the weight of their failed plan settling heavily between them.


    It had been Joe''s scheme all along, sending the Pinkertons under the guise of targeting


    Marshall.


    But the true purpose was far more calculated: to test Ricky.


    There were many ways this could have played out, and Joe had accounted for most of them.


    If the Pinkertons survived, they''d report back to him, allowing Joe to assess Ricky''s strength


    and weaknesses firsthand.


    If they were killed, their deaths would become ammunition, a perfect tool for leverage


    against Ricky.


    But what Joe hadn''t foreseen, what no one could have anticipated from the Ricky they all thought they knew, was that he didn''t just fend them off, he flipped them.


    That reckless image Ricky once carried wasn''t just a means to prove to those closest to him


    that he had changed, it had also become a weapon for his enemies, a blade they were all too eager to wield against him.


    But as time passed, they were beginning to realize a harsh truth: Ricky wasn''t the same man


    they thought they knew.


    He had changed.


    And in their case, it wasn''t for the better.


    "They''ve been aggressive," Pinky began, his voice steady but laced with frustration.


    "Disrupting our business without breaking any laws. Delaying the production chains,


    messing with the money drops, everything we usually hire them to fend off, they''re turning


    around and using against us. And the worst part?" Pinky paused, letting the weight of his words settle.


    "We can''t touch them, because it''s all ''legal." Pinky continued, his tone sharpening,


    highlighting why their hands were effectively tied when it came to dealing with the


    Pinkertons.


    However, it was the underlying message behind the Pinkertons'' actions that made Joe seethe,


    practically steaming from his ears.


    The Pinkertons weren''t just hired guns, they were the enforcers of the wealthy elite, the relentless hounds unleashed whenever the rich needed dirty work done.


    They had a history of crushing union strikes, intimidating workers, and dismantling any


    semblance of fair treatment for the downtrodden.


    To put it bluntly, the Pinkertons were the hired dogs of the rich, and that''s what infuriated Joe


    the


    most.


    Their actions didn''t just threaten his operations; they carried a veiled warning. If Joe decided to retaliate and take them out, he wouldn''t just be crossing swords with some


    mercenaries, he''d be declaring war on the upper echelon of society, the same wealthy class that funded them.


    And therein lay the real danger since going after the Pinkertons wasn''t just about handling a


    nuisance; it risked alienating powerful allies or, worse, making enemies of the people who had the resources to make his life a living hell.


    Joe wasn''t afraid of a fight, but a battle too soon against the rich could destabilize everything


    he''d built.


    The only way Joe could take any action was if the Pinkertons crossed the line, but these


    weren''t amateurs.


    The Pinkertons had been playing this game for decades, and they had perfected the art of not


    only not stepping on that line, but tight roping it.


    "Impede them for now, pull some of our goons off the protection racket and guard duty to put


    bodies in front of them," Joe ordered swiftly, Pinky nodding before he let out a wicked smile. "I''ll handle Slick."


    It was just then that a mob boss within the Commission, someone of Joe''s caliber, looked upon the crackling of the fire, his eyes narrowing as the flames danced.


    The warmth from the fire seemed to mock the cold calculations swirling in his mind.


    "Boss, he said he''d take care of it for a favor-" One of the grunts walked toward the highly respected man, his figure cloaked in the shadows.


    The low light barely illuminated his hardened features, but the weight of his presence was


    unmistakable.


    "Do it, just make sure it''s taken care of." Some hours later at Alina''s Residence,


    At Alina''s house, a dinner was being held where Marco served his family a cuisine he was


    trying to perfect, the warm glow of the dining room contrasting sharply with the darkness creeping around the house.


    As laughter echoed through the walls, a growing sense of unease took hold outside. Men, like shadows in the night, silently surrounded the house, their guns glinting under the


    pale moonlight as deadly eyes locked onto the peaceful scene within, each figure poised, waiting.


    Marco, unaware of the looming threat, continued to serve Moxie another helping of mac and cheese, his hands steady, focused on perfecting the meal.


    But in that moment, one of the men raised his gun, the cold metal aimed at the unsuspecting


    cook.


    Time seemed to slow as the atmosphere shifted from warmth and comfort to impending danger. SPLAT


    A large chunk was suddenly torn from one of the men, his mouth opening in a silent scream,


    but a decayed hand swiftly clamped over it, muffling his terror.


    Chaos erupted in an instant, contrary to the peaceful dinner inside, outside it was turning into


    a deadly nightmare.


    The hitmen who had once been poised and menacing were now silently overwhelmed, their


    weapons useless against the unseen threat.


    Ten hitmen were completely overwhelmed by the fifty crawlers recently displaced and


    unearthed around Alina''s house.


    They all tried to raise their guns, desperately firing into the night, but for every hitman, there


    were five zombies tearing into their flesh.


    One by one, their bodies gruesomely disappeared into the shadows, dragged into the night by


    forces beyond their comprehension.


    "W-What the hell!" One shouted, seeing eight of his brother, his friends, gruesomely ripped


    apart in what felt like seconds.


    "Rico, we gott-" One of the men looked towards the young and frightened Rico, reaching out


    only for the Zombies to suddenly grab him.


    "Rico?" The man forced an unnerving smile, looking upon the young man who fell to his


    knees in horror at what was happening before him.


    "AHHHHHHHHHH-" The man''s scream echoed into the night, a desperate cry for help that was abruptly silenced as a rotting hand reached up and ripped into his throat with sickening


    precision.


    Blood sprayed out in a violent burst, coating the nearby ground in crimson as the zombie yanked his throat apart, ripping through muscle like it was just paper.


    The man''s eyes widened in terror, his hands clutching at the empty space where his voice once was, his desperate attempt to breathe cut short by the relentless tearing of his flesh. The zombies were unyielding, relentless, their jaws working in synchrony to pull him apart.


    The flesh of his arms, his torso, his legs, each part was methodically torn away, bones snapping under the weight of the undead assault as each of the zombies pulled their part of it to the shadows to feast on.


    All the while the man''s screams turned into a wet, choking gasp, his body twitching as the crawlers dug deeper into him, pulling out chunks of meat with terrifying efficiency. His limbs, once strong and defiant, were now nothing more than ragged stumps, discarded as


    the zombies feasted on what remained of him.


    Rico sat there, speechless, his eyes wide in horror as he watched the carnage unfold before


    him.


    His heart pounded in his chest, a mix of disbelief and disgust gripping him as the once-feared hitman who had been his uncle was reduced to a bloody heap of flesh and bone. However this time, the family having a warm meal inside heard that blood curdling shout that


    made their skin crawl.


    "Ma, get them!" Marco shouted, his voice raw with panic as he turned and sprinted toward


    the broom closet.


    His heart pounded in his chest as he yanked open the door, grabbing the double-barrel


    shotgun from its place.


    He didn''t pause to think, moving instinctively to defend his family from the chaos unfolding


    outside.


    But he had no idea just how much worse things were about to become as the men who had


    come to destroy them would have welcomed a quick death by his gun. "Momma?" Moxie tilted his head, his voice filled with confusion as he looked up at her.


    Alina quickly scooped him into her arms, pulling the bewildered Sophia close to her side.


    She tightened her grip on the children, her protective instincts kicking in as she scanned for


    any possible escape and rushed toward the basement. Meanwhile, Marco''s hands were slick with sweat as he''d never killed anyone, never even held


    a gun before.


    The weight of the double barrel shotgun felt foreign in his grasp, the cold metal


    uncomfortably heavy as his fingers fumbled for a steady grip.


    His heart pounded in his chest, each beat deafening as he slowly made his way to the front


    door.


    BAM


    "YOU F*CKING BASTARDS, I DARE YOU-huh?" Marco''s voice boomed, kicking the door open


    as his finger was tightening on the trigger as he pointed the double barrel shotgun toward


    what he thought was an intruder.


    But instead of a looming threat, only a single leaf danced in the wind, fluttering in front of


    him.


    His brow furrowed as his gaze swept across the empty space, and with a confused grunt, he


    slowly lowered the gun.


    There was nothing. No signs of anyone. No sounds.


    Stepping cautiously onto the porch, Marco continued his search, but still, nothing seemed out


    of place.


    His chest tightened, the adrenaline still pumping through his veins, but the tension in the air


    felt


    wrong. Without a word, he let the shotgun fall to his shoulder and walked back inside the house.


    With a scowl etched on his face, Marco moved to the landline, his fingers trembling slightly as


    The dialed a number.


    "Who may I connect you with- "


    "Slick, ###-#### and tell em it''s Marco." Marco said, his voice edged with urgency as he


    recited the emergency number Ricky had given to Alina. She had never used it, but Marco wasn''t about to let hesitation get in his way as it was a


    number that, in the back of his mind, he had always known could be a lifeline, something he''d


    never thought he''d actually need, but here he was.


    "What''s up Marco, you guys low on cash?" Ricky picked up the phone, sitting on the edge of


    the bed as Ravne laid panting behind him, completely naked. "Listen, I wouldn''t usually call you but I heard a scream and I need you to come down here,


    make sure the coast is-"


    "What happened?" Ricky''s voice cut through the silence as he appeared through the portal,


    his posture nonchalant despite the situation.


    He was only in his boxers, but the gravity of the situation was never lost on him since if his kid


    was nearby, no threat was mild.


    Marco quickly explained the chaos, his words spilling out in rapid succession, telling him how


    they were having a meal until they heard this blood curdling scream and it set them all off.


    Snap


    Ricky snapped his fingers sharply, the sound echoing in the quiet night and slowly, the shadows seemed to stir as zombies began to emerge, their grotesque forms moving with eerie precision.


    Ricky had warned them that they were given zombie guards but Marco didn''t think he was


    actually serious, unnerved at the mere sight of them. Watching, two zombies emerged from the darkness, each holding not an unconscious man,


    but an injured cat in their decayed hands.


    The animal''s limp body hung between them, blood staining its fur but behind them, Rico''s


    form was dragged, his mouth covered by one of the zombies as his limbs were pinned firmly


    to the ground, helpless and squirming.


    "Wait-no, I''m sure it was a man screaming!" Marco''s face reddened in embarrassment, seeing the cat let out simmering wails at the gash in its stomach. "Hey man I''m not judging, but way to go all out with the shotgun." Ricky laughed, nudging


    Marco''s shoulder as he ducked his head at this turn of events. "Aye don''t get down on yourself since next time, it might not be a cat." Ricky patted his head,


    his eyes looking towards the bushes and making eye contact with Rico before turning the


    young kid away from the grueling scene ahead of him.


    "But hey, don''t hesitate to call me, even if it''s just for an injured cat, got it?" Ricky smirked,


    giving Marco a knowing look.


    Marco nodded silently, his face flushing in embarrassment before he glanced back at him and


    trying to find the right words to say.


    "Thanks, Ricky, for coming here so fast." Marco rubbed the back of his neck, his voice sincere.


    Ricky responded with a simple thumbs-up, his expression stoic but acknowledging the


    gratitude.


    "No problem, man. Call me anytime." Ricky smiled, watching Marco nod and walk back into


    the house.


    But as soon as Marco disappeared inside, Ricky''s smile immediately vanished, replaced by a


    cold, rageful look.


    Ricky could have told Marco the truth, could have pulled him into the mess that was his world,


    but he couldn''t.


    Moxie was going to be dragged into Ricky''s world, whether he liked it or not, simply because


    he was his son.


    But Marco reminded him too much of Rocco and couldn''t bear to see that light in Marco''s eyes


    fade the way it had with Rocco.


    Marco was a good kid; passionate about cooking, focused on his craft but Ricky knew the kid


    had a weakness, a vulnerability.


    If Marco ever learned the full extent of what had transpired, Ricky was sure he''d abandon his


    dream of becoming a chef to take on the weight of protecting his mother, his family. Ricky wouldn''t let that happen as he wasn''t about to let Marco''s life be consumed by this.


    Ricky was strong enough to bear the burden for both of them, and as he turned to look at the


    crying Rico, he realized he was ruthless enough, too.


    Snap


    A portal materialized next to Rico and without hesitation, the zombies that had been pinning


    him down shifted into action.


    Their eyes, vacant and cold, locked onto the young man as they dragged him toward the


    swirling vortex.


    He cried out, desperate, but his cries were drowned by the rotted hands placed on his throat as


    Ricky followed the scene.


    They threw him into the portal with a force that left him gasping for breath, and without a


    moment''s hesitation, the zombies returned to their programmed task.


    The crawlers, the uncommon ones, were almost like living machines.


    Their movements were precise, instinctual, mechanical in the way they executed their tasks.


    Their minds were nothing more than echoes of their commands, unshakable in their


    obedience.


    The orders that were given by Ricky were clear and absolute:


    -Guard Alina and her family with your lives.


    -Ensure at least one survives.


    Ricky stepped barefoot into the portal, the cool, unseen ground beneath him feeling strangely


    grounding.


    He spared a brief glance at the crawlers, their grotesque forms frozen in place, their tasks


    complete.


    A subtle nod of acknowledgment passed between him and the undead creatures, an unspoken


    recognition of their efficient brutality.


    His gaze then shifted downward, focusing on the sniveling young man before him.


    The boy trembled, his face pale and contorted in fear, his body shaking with the weight of the


    terror he''d just experienced.


    Ricky stood tall, silent and composed, towering over him like a predator eyeing its prey.


    "P-Please, please don''t kill me -ARGH!" Rico begged, he pleaded while grabbing Ricky''s foot


    only for the other to press against his head.


    "Do you think of me as some f*cking chump?" Ricky''s voice was low, venomous, as he


    crouched down, his smile twisted with a cruel edge.


    "What? Did you think I was just gonna let you walk out of here after you came after my girl"


    Ricky let out a dry, humorless chuckle that echoed in the silence of the room, the sound


    almost mocking.


    Rico''s sobs grew louder, the weight of Ricky''s words sinking in as every breath felt like a


    struggle, the terror pressing in on him from all sides.


    The


    laughter echoing from Ricky''s mouth, empty and cold, only deepened his panic, making


    his body shake harder with fear.


    "There''s only two options for you." Ricky''s voice was hateful, filled to its brim with only


    anger as he pressed his bare foot firmly onto Rico''s head, pinning him down.


    "A quick and painless death or a long, drawn-out, agonizing one. Choose." Rico''s body trembled beneath the weight of Ricky''s foot, his breath shallow as fear gripped


    him as his mouth opened, but no words came.


    "JESUS F*CKING CHRIST, STOP CRYING ABOUT HOW YOUR LIFE IS OVER AND ANSWER ME!" Ricky yelled, his voice booming into Rico''s ringing ears as the young man bellowed out. "Quick and painless~" Rico cried, unbelieving that his life was really about to be snipped out


    but he couldn''t face like a man, his weeping coming out even louder.


    Sigh


    "Unbelievable, you come to kill a family or abduct them or whatever, and you''re crying,


    really?" Ricky pinched the bridge of his nose, feeling incredibly annoyed only for it to deepen


    at a pool of yellow liquid forming beneath him.


    "OH COME ON!" Ricky yelled out, embarrassed for this young mobster who was cradled into a


    ball surrounded into a pool of his own piss.


    "I-I-I''m s-s-s-s-sorry-" Rico sniffled out, stuttering through the sobs as Ricky wiped his


    hand across his face.


    SIGH


    "Just tell me who sent you, let''s get this over with." Ricky sighed out heavily, feeling that this


    had gone on further than it should and he had barely met this guy.


    SNIFF


    SNIFF


    SNIFF


    "I-I was sent by Mr. Nitti from the Nitti family- "


    "You''re kidding, that wimp?" Ricky laughed, shaking his head in disbelief while slicking his


    hand through his hair.


    Out of all the mob bosses in the Commission, he never expected Frank Nitti to be the one to


    make the first move against him.


    Living in Al Capone''s shadow for so long, Frank had always been the type of guy who could


    only look up at the big figures, never quite stepping into the limelight himself.


    Yet, seemingly overnight, he suddenly became the boss of the biggest crime organization in


    Chicago.


    "I''m sorry, I just can''t believe it. Hold on," Ricky said honestly, his voice laced with disbelief. Without another word, he opened a portal and stepped through, leaving Rico sniffling in the


    silence, completely alone in the dim light.


    Minutes later, Ricky returned, Chester in tow, his body still slack with exhaustion, his face


    frozen in the quiet serenity of sleep.


    The moment they stepped through the portal, however, the calm was shattered as Chester''s


    eyes snapped open as he was suddenly thrust into whatever chaotic situation this was.


    "Why is there a young man crying in a puddle of what I assume to be, piss?" Chester tilted his


    head slightly, his eyes narrowing as he studied Rico, who was curled up on the floor, his face


    twisted in shame and fear.


    The sight of the trembling young man seemed almost pitiful, but Chester''s voice was laced


    with a hint of curiosity, his tone cold and detached, as if he were merely observing a strange


    specimen rather than the mess before him. "It''s because I''m gonna kill him once all this is done." Ricky said to Chester, his voice calm


    but filled with an unsettling finality as he turned to Rico, his tone turning furious.


    "But he''s too much of a chicken-sh*t coward to stop pissing and crying everywhere!" Ricky


    yelled, demeaning the young man further which only worsened the situation in its entirety. Rico''s whines grew louder, his body shaking as the weight of Ricky''s words hit him, but


    nothing could escape the looming dread that hung in the air. "I''M SORRY!" Rico sobbed, his voice echoing through the cavernous warehouse, his tears


    falling like a river of regret and pooling into the piss lake that was his own undoing. Chester flapped his wings above Rico, his eyes locked onto the young man''s, and in an instant, Rico''s pupils dilated.


    Ricky slowly approached, his footsteps deliberate, until he stopped just inches away from the


    puddle of tears and urine that Rico had become. "Who sent you?"


    "Frank Nitti."


    "No seriously, who sent you?"


    "Frank Nitti."


    "No but like, urgh, did Joe ask Frank Nitti-"


    "No."


    "There''s no way it was Frank Nitti."


    "It was Frank Nitti."


    "Well, I guess it was Frank Nitti." Ricky stood up, rubbing his chin before nodding to himself.


    "Can I go back to sleep now?" Chester asked, perching on his shoulder on Ricky was lost in


    thought.


    "Yeah, go nuts." Ricky, clearly in his one world, replied half-hazardly to Chester who shook


    his head and flew back into the portal. 10 minutes later,


    A car drove towards Chicago though it wasn''t the letter informing Frank Nitti of the


    emergency meeting of the commission taking place but instead, Ricky.


    "I understand why you are going on this grand quest to quell the burning thirst of vengeance,


    but why am I here?"


    And Alexander.


    The gerbil, having heard the reason behind Ricky''s relentless pursuit, understood completely


    why he was driving toward Frank Nitti''s residence with such fury.


    However, Alexander knew they were just ordinary men, humans, whom Ricky could easily


    handle on his own.


    "For the company?" Ricky asked Alexander, a hint of uncertainty in his voice as he figured it


    would be a bit odd, and honestly, kind of cringy, if he went in alone.


    "Fair enough."


    Author''s Note: hey guys, thanks alot for the understanding and for being so cool with me


    shifting the chapters for this week. I''m feeling way better and other than a gross ass cough, I''m fine, anyways hope you enjoy!

 Chapter 134 - 129: Crossing The Line

    Chapter 134: Chapter 129: Crossing The Line


    "So your plan, the one that is to sire your victory, is to eliminate external threats within the compound and then lure them all into one final, decisive gathering?" Alexander summarized with a raised brow, his tone hovering between skepticism and intrigue.


    The gerbil paced slowly on his dashboard, contemplating Ricky''s words and weighing the implications.


    "So uh, how is it-" Ricky genuinely asked, really taking the time to think it out and waited for Alexander to judge since this was his first time infiltrating enemy lines.


    But before he could finish, the gerbil raised a paw, cutting him off mid-sentence.


    "3/10."


    "Wha-so low?!" Ricky asked, almost complaining since it seemed pretty sound from his point of view only for the gerbil to sigh.


    This exercise was, in a way, a vital part of Ricky''s training, something that couldn''t be taught in words but had to be grasped through experience.


    The premise was simple yet demanding: Ricky would be presented in his everyday life that required a strategy or plan.


    Alexander, rather than offering guidance, would silently observe from the sidelines, assessing Ricky''s approach.


    Ricky would then lay out his entire plan in detail and once he finished, Alexander would deliver his critique; blunt, precise, and often cutting.


    However, the real challenge lay in what came next: Ricky was forbidden from altering his plan.


    Instead, he had to adapt on the fly, working around the flaws Alexander highlighted.


    The reasoning was clear as in the future, Ricky wouldn''t always have the luxury of Alexander''s advice.


    He needed to learn not just how to devise a strategy but how to stand by it and make it work, even under scrutiny or with glaring imperfections.


    "It is because you always expect your strength to bridge the gaps unaccounted for." Alexander explained, making Ricky frown as he turned into a gas station to fill up.


    "But you said that strength bridges of the gaps of weakness-"


    "In another!" Alexander interrupted, stern in his correction as he crawled closer to him.


    "Now listen, Socrates said ''Strength is the bridge that spans the chasms of another''s weakness'' you misinterpreted it wrong." Alexander sighed heavily, watching Ricky scratch his chin at his words.


    "The quote means that strength; whether physical, emotional, intellectual, or moral, can compensate for or support the weaknesses in others. It suggests a symbiotic relationship where the strengths of one individual can help uplift, protect, or complete another who may lack in certain areas." Alexander explained with one paw, seemingly showing him why this representation isn''t right before telling him.


    "But you are alone in this effort, there is no one for you to bridge the gaps and thus, the responsibility of your weaknesses is on yourself." Alexander explained further, holding up his other paw.


    "When alone, our greatest enemy is not those before us but ourselves." Alexander''s words were concise, gripping his paw tightly before gazing at Ricky.


    "Complacency, is the mighty''s greatest weakness." Alexander''s voice grew compassionate, turning towards the windshield and looking out towards the horizon.


    "It has been easy for you, almost fulfilling up and til now."Alexander puffed out his chest, having carefully watched Ricky since he returned.


    "You have grown in strength and wit, to a degree that dwarfs those that you once considered enemies." Alexander slowed down at the end, until he turned back to Ricky pulling into the gas station.


    "And I can see how satisfying it can be to lose yourself in that strength while crushing all those who once opposed you." Alexander appealed to Ricky, knowing how vital it was for him to confront his past demons.


    "But you mustn''t lose yourself to this feeling, but instead, turn it into valuable practice, experience, that will allow you to continue to hone yourself so that you can be prepared for the enemies to come." Alexander finally revealed, crawling up to Ricky''s shoulder as he went to pay for gas.


    "Ten on pump two." Ricky put down two dollars, the man about to give him his change only for him to hold up his hand, signaling him to keep the change.


    Sigh


    "Yeah, I get that I''ve been a little caught up in just absolutely destroying those around me, but can you blame me?" Ricky sighed, slicking his hand through his black hair while walking back to his car.


    "I understand," Alexander said with a measured tone.


    "But it wouldn''t have hurt to ask for a layout of the compound, details on the guards in attendance, or anything that might expose potential flaws in a plan. Any and all information is valuable at everytime." Alexander''s words carried the weight of experience as he understood Ricky''s eagerness, having once walked a similar path.


    When Alexander first left the palace to study under Socrates at Karma Taj and learn the art of leadership, he had to confront his own impatience.


    Back then, he believed his natural talent made him invincible, that no one could rival him.


    But his journey taught him otherwise.


    It wasn''t that he was unmatched, it was simply that he had yet to encounter anyone stronger.


    And the possibility of their existence meant he could never afford to let his guard down.


    Patience had become one of his greatest lessons, shaping him into the general who conquered those who stood before him.


    Now, as he looked at Ricky, he saw a reflection of his younger self, a raw talent in need of refinement.


    "The horrid process of growing stronger is that it doesn''t come all at once, it takes time." Alexander relented, feeling how arduous it was to gain strength.


    "But what defines your strength later is how you define that time now." Alexander gave more words of wisdom, Ricky listening before getting into the car.


    "And what''s more, have you thought about the repercussions of this plan?" Alexander wondered, his eyes expecting the words that were starting to flow out of Ricky.


    "Well, yeah. I want to isolate the Commission, tear them down in one decisive blow so that when I''m done, there''s nothing left. Not even scraps on the outskirts." Ricky said, his voice steady but laced with resolve.


    His eyes were fixed on the horizon, envisioning the day he''d return to New York and take everything for himself.


    "But I don''t want anyone outside my control picking up the pieces." Ricky explained, walking Alexander through the steps.


    "The only one outside New York who poses a threat is Frank Nitti." Ricky didn''t think highly of him in the first place but was determined to kill two birds with one stone, ensuring no loose ends remained.


    "Once I''ve taken everything they have to offer, I''ll expand outward. But for now, my focus is on completely claiming New York. Chicago can wait." Ricky was decisive, showing that their was thought put into it rather than pure ambition and revenge.


    Alexander listened intently, rubbing his stubbled chin as he processed Ricky''s plan, his expression unreadable.


    "But you do know where this ''Frank Nitti'' is currently residing, correct." Alexander wondered, seeing Ricky reach into his coat pocket and pull out a napkin with an address on it.


    "Yeah, got it from a piss-stained weasel before I turned him into mush." Ricky revealed, his tone devoid of remorse.


    Alexander''s eyes flicked to the edges of the napkin Ricky held, faint streaks of Rico''s blood still visible.


    As Ricky began piecing together the next steps of his plan, Alexander deduced the gaps.


    It was clear Ricky hadn''t pried any further information from Rico; the address was all he had thought to obtain which resulted from the earlier lecture.


    Rico''s desperate pleas had echoed in the room once the mind control had worn off, leaving him to face the crushing weight of his impending demise.


    But Ricky hadn''t wavered since mercy wasn''t part of the deal, only the promise of a swift and painless death.


    In one decisive motion, Ricky summoned a pillar of psionic energy, its shimmering mass crashing down onto Rico''s body with a sickening finality.


    What remained was nothing more than paste and from there, he had arrived at this point, his sights now set firmly on the road ahead.


    "What about the repercussions, what if they-"


    "They won''t, not after tonight." Ricky tapped the steering wheel, his gaze turning to the gerbil who was unconvinced.


    "And why is that?"


    "Because tonight, I''ll make an example of Frank, something so decisive it''ll force the families to step back and reevaluate everything." Ricky declared, his voice steady with determination that seemed to almost hesitate at what he was about to do.


    "And if that isn''t enough?" Alexander prone, looking at Ricky who adjusted his mirror while looking at his forced smile.


    "Then the second act of my trial should make them piss their pants."


    Meanwhile at the Nitti Family residence,


    "Boss, it''s a letter." A man approached Frank Nitti, who was focused on his work on the outskirts of Chicago as he gestured toward the letter, holding it up in front of him.


    "Leave it here," Nitti gestured, his attention still fixed on the massive pile of paperwork in front of him.


    The mobster nodded, placing the letter at the foot of Nitti''s desk before turning and walking away.


    After Al Capone was convicted of tax evasion in 1931 and sentenced to 11 years in prison, Frank Nitti, known as ''The Enforcer'' was tapped to take control of Capone''s operations.


    Nitti had been Capone''s right-hand man, managing much of the day-to-day enforcement and logistics of the Chicago Outfit.


    However, while Nitti became the figurehead, other influential leaders in the Outfit, such as Paul ''The Waiter'' Ricca, Tony Accardo, and Jake "Greasy Thumb" Guzik, remained key figures behind the scenes.


    Capone''s imprisonment left a leadership vacuum, and the Chicago Outfit needed a strong successor to keep its diverse criminal enterprises intact.


    The Outfit''s major sources of income came from bootlegging, labor racketeering, extortion, gambling, and prostitution.


    Nitti, with his calm demeanor and sharp strategic mind, was often seen as a stabilizing figure within the organization, but that was where his strengths ended.


    The problem with Nitti was simple: he was a damn good mobster, but that didn''t necessarily make him a great boss.


    He never took major risks.


    To put it bluntly, Nitti never made a move unless he could visibly see or guarantee a return.


    On paper, that sounded practical, even wise, but to truly ascend, to take the next step towards being a leader, you had to embrace risk, something Nitti was never comfortable with.


    His reluctance to step beyond calculated moves kept him from truly seizing power.


    Which is why despite his title as boss, his role was more to serve as a public face for the syndicate, with more critical decisions made by the ''board of directors'' that included Ricca, Accardo, and Guzik.


    However, everything changed after Ricky was banished as his departure left a lasting impact, one that altered the course of history.


    Nitti, once secure in his position, now feared that something could happen to him, that he might lose control.


    This fear, that aching feeling that he could be ousted and lose everything around him drove Nitti to make a drastic move, one that put him out of his comfort zone for the first time.


    Two years after Ricky had left, Nitti ordered the hit on his board of directors, wiping them out and consolidating all power under his sole command.


    It was a move that eliminated any potential threats to his rule, but it also revealed the depth of his insecurity.


    Even though it wasn''t what he intended, Ricky had unknowingly revived Nitti from his stagnation.


    It was something neither he nor any of the other mob bosses could have anticipated.


    Ricky''s actions had set off a chain reaction, one that slowly pushed Nitti into the man he was always meant to become.


    Nitti, who had once been content in his controlled, cautious approach, was now beginning to evolve.


    He was shedding his old skin, slowly growing into the ruthless and ambitious figure that he should have been from the very beginning.


    It was why instead of looking east to quench his growing hunger for power, Nitti''s eyes turned west, toward Hollywood.


    He recognized the untapped potential there, a rich territory ripe for extortion.


    With the Chicago Outfit in tow, Nitti expanded their operations into Hollywood, eager to capitalize on the city''s wealth and influence.


    It was the beginning of a new era, one where Nitti sought not only control over his own territory but a foothold in the glamorous world of film and entertainment.


    The Outfit, through their control of labor unions like the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), would threaten strikes or work stoppages in major studios unless they were paid large sums of money.


    This extortion racket became a significant revenue source in the 1930s and cemented the Chicago Outfit''s national influence.


    But this new ambition within Nitti was growing increasingly greedy as he didn''t just want to extort the studios; he wanted to fully devour the movie industry as a whole.


    The allure of Hollywood wasn''t just its wealth, it was its influence, its power over culture and society.


    Nitti saw it as an opportunity to expand his empire, to control not just the money, but the very narrative that shaped the world.


    The more he dug into the industry, the more he wanted, and what began as a strategic move soon spiraled into a dangerous obsession, all because of Ricky.


    Sigh


    Nitti sighed, his gaze locked on the black letter, unmistakably from the Commission as his fingers hovered over the pile of papers for a moment before he reluctantly set them aside and reached for the letter.


    "I swear, that mutant is gonna be the death of me."


    Meanwhile, outside the house, a pair of patrolling men moved carefully around the compound, their steps measured and deliberate.


    As they surveyed the area, their attention occasionally drifted toward the tension building inside.


    However, on the outside, the atmosphere was thick with hostility as the two men engaged in a heated argument, their voices rising in frustration.


    The sound of their clash contrasted sharply with the quiet vigilance of the guards outside, unaware of the storm brewing just a few feet away.


    "You''re kidding, Tony. You''ve gotta be kidding?" the guy asked, disbelief clear in his voice as Tony simply nodded, a wry smile crossing his face as he shook his head in response.


    "No Vinny, listen, listen, the tits are the cradle of f*cking life-"


    "But ass!" Vinny countered, his frustration boiling over.


    "No, but listen, the shape of a good ass is something special, but a pair of perfect, round knockers is something that-Vinny? Vinny?" Tony walked forward, trying to put his thoughts into words, but as he turned to the side, his words trailed off.


    Vinny was gone, vanished without a trace as Tony stood there for a moment, bewildered, his mind catching up with the sudden silence.


    "Oh don''t do that, I swear to god if you scare me then I''ll-" Tony laughed out, already knowing Vinny''s personality before his words were brutally interrupted.


    SPLAT


    "Kurek~" Tony let out a pained screech, his blood splatting as a sword was thrusted into his throat before Ricky appeared from the shadows.


    CRACK


    Dislocating his spine, Tony collapsed onto the ground with a heavy thud, his body crumpling in pain and shock.


    Grabbing his collar, he threw Tony into a portal where Vinny''s limp and lifeless body was already laying around the ritual circle.


    "Told you I could blend into the shadows," Ricky said with a smirk, looking down at Alexander.


    Alexander, arms crossed, shot him a frustrated glance, clearly annoyed that he''d bet all his sunflower seeds on a different outcome.


    "Best two out of three says you can''t kill everyone here without being spotted before you get to the boss, and no mutant powers." Alexander said, his tone laced with confidence, eyes sharp as he doubled the bet.


    Ricky rubbed his chin thoughtfully, the challenge hanging in the air and after a moment of consideration, he simply shrugged, stepping back into the dim shadows, ready to prove his point once again.ws.


    "You''re on."


    In the courtyard, two men walked past each other, exchanging a brief nod of acknowledgment.


    The air between them was casual, yet beneath the surface, both remained ever watchful.


    Once they had each taken a few steps beyond the other, Chastefold suddenly rocketed out from the side, moving with a speed and precision that caught them off guard.


    SPLAT


    The spear shot through the walking man, its impact brutal and precise, driving into him like a kabob into the gate.


    "Huh?" The man let out, surprised that his buddy had suddenly disappeared as Ricky had appeared behind him.


    SPLAT


    THUMP


    Slicing the man clean in two with the ebony blade, Ricky tossed the remains into the portal with a swift, calculated motion.


    The body vanished into the swirling darkness, as if it had never been before Chastefold slammed into Ricky''s other palm.


    ''Must you use me for such weaklings?'' The Ebony Blade sighed in his head, feeling almost insulted that Ricky would use him on normal humans.


    ''Would you like me to just use Chastiefol then?'' Ricky asked the sentient blade, waving Chastiefol next to it with a smug smile.


    ''.....''


    ''That''s what I thought-''


    Just then, someone walked over the ledge, peering down as a faint noise caught their attention.


    They looked around, scanning the area, but all they saw was the snow scattered across the ground.


    With a shrug, they dismissed it, assuming it was nothing but the moment they turned away, Ricky, pressed flat against the wall, sprang into action.


    He leapt effortlessly toward the ledge, his movements swift and silent, like a shadow in the night.


    YAWN


    The man, his back still turned to the ledge, let out a humongous yawn, stretching his arms above his head as he cracked his back with a groan.


    The cold had seeped into his bones after standing in the frigid air for nearly two hours, and he was growing impatient.


    His eyes half-lidded, he was oblivious to the danger closing in, focused more on the discomfort of the chill than the unease that lingered in the air.


    CRACK


    Grabbing the man by his yawning mouth, Ricky twisted sharply, snapping his neck with a sickening crack.


    Without hesitation, he threw the lifeless body behind him and off the ledge, into a portal, watching it vanish.


    In one fluid motion, he scaled the roof and once atop, he surveyed the residence, noting two teams patrolling the grounds below.


    Ricky dropped Chastefold, watching it hover steadily, its presence now an extension of his own as it scanned the surroundings as every detail was accounted for, and Ricky was ready to move, his focus unbroken.


    Walking around to the other ledges, Ricky nodded to himself, eyes scanning the perimeter with precise calculation.


    Satisfied with his positioning, he summoned a gate with a flick of his wrist. It materialized before a lone patrolling man, who froze in confusion as the swirling portal opened before him.


    The man barely had time to react before Ricky emerged from the shadows, moving with a quiet, predatory grace.


    SPLAT


    Ricky swiftly pierced the man''s head, the force of the strike sending him crashing through the portal, his body vanishing into the abyss beyond and without pause, he commanded another portal to open next to the other patrolling men.


    One by one, he repeated the motion, each strike a blur, each man sent through the portal without so much as a sound.


    It was methodical, terrifyingly efficient as the patrolling teams fell one after another, their bodies disappearing into the magical gates, as Ricky moved with a chilling calmness, ensuring no one was left standing.


    It was a brutal display of precision and power and in less than twenty seconds, twelve men had fallen, each death silent, their lives snuffed out without a single sound.


    Ricky stood amidst the carnage, his eyes cold and unfeeling as he scanned the area as his gaze shifted to the last team of two, still patrolling.


    Without hesitation, he walked to the edge of the house, his steps deliberate. He waited, watching them get closer, their attention elsewhere.


    SPLAT


    SPLAT


    The ebony blade tore through the top of one man''s head, its sharp edge skewering downward, ending his life instantly as the force was swift and unforgiving, leaving no room for struggle.


    At the same time, Chastefold darted toward the other man, its tip piercing his skull with a sickening pop, like a balloon bursting under pressure.


    The man crumpled to the ground, his body lifeless before it even hit the earth but the worst part about this scene wasn''t that it was over in an instant, but that it was merely two more bodies added to the pile.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    "F*cking hell."


    Ricky kicked the bodies into the portal, watching them vanish into the green gate with a practiced motion.


    Ricky''s breath came in heavy pants, his magic reserves were running low as he had only half of his usual mana left, the gates draining a significant amount with each use.


    Ricky had never used the gates in this way before as they were meant for transportation, a quick means of moving from one place to another, not as a weapon in battle.


    Now, experiencing firsthand the consequences of overextending their use, he realized just how draining they could be.


    A spell cannot be defined in its basic sense because a practitioner has the ability to alter the spell itself, infusing it with different variations of magic to enhance its destructive power or tailor it to a specific purpose.


    While the foundational structure of a spell might remain the same, the caster can adjust its potency, speed, range, or even the elemental components that fuel it.


    But for a practical sense and to put it in perspective, taking the minimum amount of a normal spell like a fireball would typically cost around 1 unit of magic power within his stat of 125.


    As one''s proficiency with magic grows, so does the efficiency of using it, which for Ricky meant each spell now cost around .5 units.


    But the gates, however, demanded far more from him than a standard spell and on top of that he never mastered that particular spell.


    As each use of the portal drained significant amounts of energy, leaving him with barely half his mana after just a few attacks with only his grimoire to lessen the burden.


    A grimoire, the book of spells that witches and warlocks used, was meant to act as a conduit, helping to channel their magic more effectively.


    While it was a useful tool, it isn''t necessarily better than casting a spell purely from memory and experience.


    With practice, a fireball, for instance, could cost as little as .7 units with a grimoire and although it is better than 1 units required, it cannot compare to the mastery of .5 and that .2 can make all the difference in a life or death battle.


    For Ricky, using the Necronium to create a portal drained approximately 6.3 magical units each time and after summoning it ten times, the strain had become noticeable.


    Meanwhile, Alexander wore a smug smile, certain that eventually Ricky would be worn out.


    However, through the reflection of the window he was quietly approaching, Ricky saw that expression.


    A surge of determination flared within him, a need to rub this victory in Alexander''s face, fueling his resolve even further.


    Slowly, Ricky crept toward the window, peering in and inside, three guards were gathered, casually eating sandwiches.


    Thinking quickly, Ricky cautiously made his way into the house, staying hidden in the shadows.


    As he crept closer, the muffled sounds of the guards'' conversation began to drift into earshot, their voices gradually becoming clearer.


    "So I was like, ''Who the f*ck you think you are?'' and he''s all like, ''I am.'' So then I kicked his ass," one of the guards laughed, taking a bite of his sandwich.


    The other chuckled along, the conversation lighthearted and oblivious to the danger closing in.


    Ricky, silently gripping Chastefold, studying their positions as the two of them were lined up just right for a collateral.


    Bringing Chastefold back like a javelin, Ricky hurled it with all his might as the laughing men didn''t even have time to register what was happening before their heads were impaled, their bodies flung into a gate that opened with a flicker.


    "So then I-"


    SPLAT


    Some blood splattered onto the counter as Ricky stepped into view as he reached for a rag, wiping the blood off the surface.


    His eyes then drifted to the spot where the two men had been moments before, now vacant, the portal slowly closing behind them.


    Reaching towards the side, he grabbed one of the uneaten sandwiches and resumed the two deadman''s break before becoming surprised, looking at the meal in his hand.


    ''It''s good.'' Ricky said in his head, looking at the last of the men loaming around the second floor, only three remaining.


    ''Well, let''s get this over with.''


    Knock


    Knock


    "Boss, it''s urgent!" One of the grunts'' voices sounded from the other side of the door, laced with immense worry as Nitti looked up from the letter.


    "Come in, Tony, what is it?" Nitti asked, his voice steady, barely lifting from the papers on his desk.


    He didn''t even look up immediately, only acknowledging Tony''s presence with a wave to enter.


    But before Tony could step through, the door suddenly creaked open, and instead of Tony, Ricky walked in, his presence commanding the room immediately.


    Nitti''s eyes snapped up, surprised, his mind quickly shifting gears as he processed the unexpected arrival.


    "An old friend came to say hi," Ricky chuckled, stepping fully into the office, his imposing black knight form filling the doorway.


    Nitti immediately flinched, standing up abruptly, his chair scraping loudly against the floor as his eyes darted to Ricky.


    "What the-GUYS!" Nitti''s shock quickly morphed into a frantic scream, his voice echoing off the walls.


    Ricky, unfazed, swiftly sealed the office room, boxing it in with a flick of his wrist.


    The sound of Nitti''s outburst was cut off, smothered by the magical barrier, leaving only the muffled chaos inside.


    He didn''t have to go this far since all of Nitti''s guards were dead, but Alexander was right and he should get into the habit of it now rather than later.


    "Don''t bother, I already killed them and scored two bags of Alexander the Great sunflower seeds." Ricky strolled forward confidently, closing the distance to Nitti''s desk, much to Alexander''s dismay.


    "Alexander the what-" Nitti''s confusion was palpable, but Ricky swiftly reached out, cutting off his words with a sharp gesture.


    BAM


    Crack


    Ricky slammed Nitti''s face into the hardwood desk with a sickening thud, blood spurting from his nostrils and splattering across the papers scattered on the surface.


    Nitti stumbled back, his head spinning, and slumped into the chair, disoriented and gasping for air.


    "My f*cking nose!" Nitti yelped, his voice strained and nasally from the brutal impact.


    "Does it hurt?" Ricky asked, almost too casually, as he plopped down in the chair opposite Nitti, his expression oddly serene.


    "Yes, it f*cking hurts!" Nitti shouted, rocking back and forth in his chair, one hand clutching his broken nose.


    "Oh good, for a second there I thought you were a masochist or something crazy like that, cause I wouldn''t enjoy hurting you if you actually liked the pain." Ricky wiped the nonexistent sweat off his forehead, looking at him with a smile.


    "Wha-masochist, what the hell are you talking about-"


    CRUNCH


    "MOTHER OF PEARLS, F*CK!" Nitti screeched out as Ricky slammed a blunt object from his own desk onto his outstretched hand, crushing it into mush.


    His hand went limp, flattened against the desk under the weight of Ricky''s strength pressing down onto him.


    "I mean, I just don''t get it. You did something so stupid, but you don''t like pain? Baffling, almost," Ricky sighed, shaking his head since either Nitti was a masochist, just waiting for him to kick his ass, or he was a complete idiot.


    "Woah, wait, Slick. If this is about the Commission, let me tell you, I never wanted that to happen," Nitti immediately pleaded his case, wincing at the pain and Ricky just slumped further into his chair, his expression flat and uninterested.


    "Uh-huh." Ricky rolled his eyes, knowing it was a lie, but busy scanning the nearby bookshelves.


    "I never wanted to kick you from your home and in fact, I quite like mutants-"


    "Hey, could you put your hand here?" Ricky suddenly interrupted, asking Nitti.


    Nitti raised a brow at the Bible, thinking maybe Ricky wanted him to swear on it or something like that, but he hesitated.


    "But y-you-" Nitti looked at his already flaccid hand, limply hanging on his wrist as Ricky raised his gaze.


    "Hand on the bible, Nitti."


    "O-Oka-"


    BAM


    CRACK


    Immediately, Ricky slammed the thicker book down onto Nitti''s hand, causing all the bones within his other hand to shatter into pieces.


    Nitti screamed, his body jerking as the pain shot through him, his eyes wide with disbelief.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!?" Nitti screeched at the top of his lungs, his uvula flailing about in desperate agony within his mouth.


    Ricky grabbed his collar, pulling him close, his cold eyes locked onto Nitti''s frantic expression.


    "Do you expect me to really believe that bullsh*t? Did you actually think I came all the way here, and killed all your guys to here some f*cking excuse?!" Ricky asked, his voice laced with incredulity, a mocking laugh escaping his lips as he shook his head as he couldn''t believe how much of an idiot Nitti was for thinking he''d fall for it.


    "And they called me an idiot." Ricky pushed him back, Nitti falling into his leather chair while trying to grab both his hands while reeling in from the pain.


    "Please, please Slick, I got a family!" Nitti begged, scrambling off the chair in desperation as Ricky slowly stood up, his eyes never leaving him.


    "No way, me too," Ricky replied in a lighthearted way, but his voice was cold as he remembered the names uttered to him under Profaci breath, the same names that were used to threaten him those three years go.


    "They''re Alina, Maria, Lucky, Frank, Jake, Henry, Madame St. Clair, Chores, and Barko." Ricky turned slowly toward Nitti, his gaze sharp and unblinking as Nitti froze, every muscle in his body locking up as he realized the weight of Ricky''s words.


    "God, I still remember the helpless feeling back then," Ricky muttered with a laugh, shaking his head as he poured himself a generous glass of Nitti''s scotch, the amber liquid catching the light.


    "What about you, Frank? How are you feeling right now?" Ricky asked, his tone deceptively casual as he took a slow sip, the taste of the alcohol lingering in his mouth.


    He leaned back, watching Nitti with an unsettling calmness, shaking his head as if contemplating something deeper.


    "Please, I know I wronged you, but leave them out of this," Nitti begged, his voice trembling as he waved helplessly toward the door.


    He could feel the weight of Ricky''s gaze, his anger, but his thoughts were fixed on his wife and kids, sleeping in the other room.


    "Please, leave my family out of this," Nitti pleaded, his voice cracking with desperation.


    His life hung in the balance, but it wasn''t the fear of death that rattled him, it was the thought of what Ricky might do to the ones he loved.


    It was why his forehead pressed against the cold floorboards, a desperate plea for mercy that seemed to echo in the silence of the room.


    Now, the decision lay solely in Ricky''s hands.


    Alexander remained eerily quiet, as if he knew this moment would be the turning point, the moment that would forever define the man Ricky was about to become.


    For all that Ricky had done, for the choices he had made, his actions had indirectly reflected change in a way that could benefit others.


    Although it was for his inherently selfish gain, his actions had often crossed the line between right and wrong if put in the perspective of one who looked at it.


    But there was a line, a single, invisible boundary that, once crossed, left no chance for redemption.


    This was that moment.


    The man who stood before him, groveling and pleading for mercy, was nothing more than a reflection of the life Ricky had lived, one filled with choices that could either save or destroy.


    Frank Nitti was going to die, that was an inevitability and Ricky had already accepted that fact deep within him.


    The man had crossed too many lines, gone towards something he shouldn''t have, and in Ricky''s eyes, he had sealed his own fate.


    But as he sat there, before Nitti''s groveling, something tugged at him, this flicker of hesitation.


    The innocents, the ones sleeping peacefully in the other room, the ones that forced his eyes to briefly flickered towards the door, knowing that beyond it, a family slept, unaware of the horrors unfolding just feet away.


    They had done nothing wrong, they didn''t deserve to pay for their husbands sin, their fathers sins.


    This was a part of Ricky that could change, a part that could be surrounded by the boundaries of morality, no matter how horrid the path he walked would become.


    But at the same time, an example had to be set.


    People would talk, they would look back on this moment, and remember how Ricky dealt with those who crossed his line.


    If he showed weakness, hesitation, or mercy now, he would be seen as someone to challenge, someone whose lines weren''t so firm.


    He couldn''t afford that.


    Not if he was ever going to be more than just a figurehead in this brutal world, not if he was going to be the leader of the Luciano family.


    His enemies actions had to have consequences, and those consequences would ripple outward, carving the future of his brutality.


    It was cruel, sickening almost, but for all that Ricky was, he was a hypocrite.


    This sentiment repeated, almost endlessly, but it was for that reason, for that single word, that seemed to sink deeper into Ricky''s chest the longer he stood there, looking down at Nitti, the man whose life he was about to snuff out.


    Ricky had made it clear that no one, no one, was beyond his reach but this moment, the moment he had to decide whether or not to spare the family, made him realize something that he couldn''t escape: the truth about himself.


    The statement always reverberated in his mind because it was a truth so simple, yet so damning.


    Someone who crossed the line had to be a hypocrite, you couldn''t claim to be someone who valued things, who valued people, and then turn around and destroy the things that others held dear.


    It was hypocrisy in its purest form.


    You couldn''t stand there, acting like you were doing it all for something greater, and then turn around and crush someone''s world with no remorse.


    Some people would deny this fact.


    They would tell themselves their actions were justified, that they were protecting what mattered most to them or seeking revenge for wrongs done.


    And maybe, for a time, Ricky had told himself those same things.


    But he knew deep down that wasn''t the full story as he couldn''t lie to himself, he knew who he was, even if he didn''t always like it.


    He was selfish, greedy; it was all about what he wanted, what he could take, and what he could control.


    He didn''t care about morality or righteousness.


    No, Ricky was a man driven by his own desires and the lines he crossed, the people he hurt, it wasn''t about justice or anything noble.


    It was about his own twisted need to assert control, to live his desires, to conquer and possess whatever he could.


    He didn''t pretend to be a hero, or someone who was doing good for the world.


    He was just someone who wanted power, and was willing to do anything to get it.


    The hypocrisy stung, but it wasn''t enough to stop him because in the end, Ricky didn''t care about the contradictions within him.


    They were just a part of the price he paid to get what he wanted, to have control, to destroy when necessary, and even if it meant sacrificing his own humanity in the process.


    He would do it.


    And so, as he stood there, watching Nitti writhe on the floor beneath his gaze.


    Ricky made his choice, accepting the cruel reality of who he was and would always be in the future, a hypocrite.


    "No."


    It was just one word, one syllable, but it wasn''t the word itself but the action that followed.


    Ricky''s foot slowly, deliberately, crossed over that line.


    It wasn''t a dramatic gesture, no great display of defiance or rage, it was merely a quiet shift, a simple, irreversible step that didn''t show anything but defined everything.


    Because people believe that a villain or monster is just created, but that''s wrong, it''s formed, through a gradual process.


    It isn''t some one-time event that changes a person, it isn''t a singular act of violence or betrayal that turns them into something else.


    No, the transformation is slow, subtle, and almost imperceptible.


    It''s the accumulation of choices, the small compromises that add up, each one chipping away at the person you once were, until you''re left with something unrecognizable, an abomination.


    Greed, lust, pride, wrath, envy, gluttony, and sloth; they are all the sins of man.


    But they are just sins.


    They don''t define the demons that wield them, they simply fuel them.


    They feed the darkness, each one adding another layer, another crack in the foundation of what was once a person''s soul.


    It''s a corrosion that happens over time, a slow rot that spreads through every thought, every action.


    A person doesn''t wake up one day and choose to be a monster, a villain, even a bad person.


    They become one through every lie, every betrayal, every selfish desire, and all of it adds weight, it builds pressure, until one day, the person who could have been something else is gone.


    What''s left is a reflection of every bad choice, every moment of weakness, every sin they allowed to fester.


    Because at the end of the day it''s just a feeling, until it''s an action, before it''s everything you are - LaughingFiend


    "Your family''s dying tonight Nitti, an example has to be set, you''re just the schmuck everyone''s gonna whisper about when they think of going after what I love, what''s mine." Ricky wiped his mouth, looking down at the grown man tearing up and bowing before his very feet.


    "Please-KUERK!" Nitti''s voice was cut off, his plea for mercy transforming into a strangled gasp as Ricky''s grip tightened around his neck.


    The sound of Nitti''s windpipe constricting was a sickening echo in the otherwise silent room.


    Ricky''s eyes were cold, unblinking, as he effortlessly lifted the man with one hand, his strength leaving Nitti dangling helplessly, feet kicking at the floor in a futile attempt to regain control.


    "The commission made it personal when they used the people close to me to drive me out," Ricky muttered, his grip tightening as he dragged Nitti''s struggling body closer.


    "So now, I have to send a message, I have to go further." Ricky''s face was a mask of cold resolve, but beneath the surface, there was something more.


    The raw emotion was undeniable; hatred, pure and unfiltered, bubbling up inside him like a volcano waiting to erupt as the rage he had held back for so long had finally reached its breaking point.


    "I have to show everyone that if you threaten the people close to me, threaten my family, that I won''t only come after you." Ricky''s cold, merciless, but etching into the very foundation of his being into one of his most vital principles in the future.


    "But everything you love."


    BOOOM


    The Nitti residence erupted in flames, a violent burst of orange and red consuming the building as the heat radiated out in every direction.


    The windows shattered in a chorus of glass, and the structure groaned under the pressure of the inferno.


    Inside, the flames spread with terrifying speed, licking at the walls, devouring everything in its path.


    Ricky stood inside, his hands raised slightly, and with a flick of his wrist, the air around the house twisted, warping into an impenetrable box of magic around the two.


    The flames intensified as the oxygen within the confined space grew scarce, turning the smoke thick and suffocating, swirling with desperation.


    The fire fed off the confines, greedily consuming the house, pushing the heat higher, the smoke darker.


    "They''re going to burn alive, Nitti, and you''re going to watch," Ricky said coldly, his voice almost like a death sentence itself.


    He gripped Nitti by the collar, dragging him out of the study, his hand tight around the struggling man''s throat and brought him to a single wooden door.


    "FRANKY, FRANKY, THERE''S SOMETHING BLOCKING THE DOOR!" Nitti''s wife cried out, her voice full of panic and desperation.


    The muffled sounds of her screams reached Nitti''s ears, but it did nothing to alleviate the suffocating weight of the situation.


    Nitti''s body trembled violently, his face contorted in pain as he struggled against Ricky''s iron grip.


    "It didn''t have to be like this, Frank. It could''ve been different," Ricky said quietly, his voice carrying a note of something almost like regret as he stood beside the wreckage.


    His hand hovered over the door frames where his constructs were forming, reinforcing the barrier to keep Nitti''s kids from escaping the building.


    A flicker of something, a small, fleeting hesitation, passed through Ricky''s eyes as he thought of his own children, but it quickly faded.


    "I know you knew who was in that house, and you f*cking sent your men there anyway." Ricky''s voice was icy, his words sharp and deliberate as he made Nitti watch, his hands forcing Nitti''s head to face the destruction.


    Nitti tried to look away, his eyes squeezing shut, but the screams of his family, the desperate, terrified cries that filled his ears, seared through the walls of his denial.


    Nitti''s body trembled, his chest heaving as he fought against the overwhelming guilt and horror coursing through him.


    He wanted to shield his eyes, block out the sounds, but Ricky''s grip held him firmly, forcing him to witness every agonizing moment.


    "P-Please~" Nitti gasped, his voice cracked and desperate, as tears streamed down his face.


    His body shook violently in Ricky''s grasp, the sound of his family''s screams echoing in his ears.


    The weight of the moment was too much, and his heart seemed to shatter with each passing second.


    Ricky''s grip tightened, forcing Nitti to stay still and watch, his eyes open, no matter how hard he tried to look away.


    The smoke and fire filled the air, the scene in front of him unbearable as his family, his wife, and children, all of them were suffering, and Nitti could do nothing.


    "You did this, it''s all your fault." Ricky whispered those haunting words into Nitti''s ears, watching him completely crumble under them.


    Ricky''s gaze never faltered as he watched the destruction unfold before him.


    Each crackle of the fire, every scream that echoed from the mansion, only served to fuel the cold, ruthless part of him that had been growing within for years.


    The world was harsh, unforgiving.


    If Ricky wanted to achieve everything he''d set his sights on, if he wanted to secure his place above the chaos, he knew he had to harden himself.


    The line between mercy and ruthlessness blurred in moments like these.


    Power didn''t come with kindness, it came with fear, and fear was what would keep people from daring to cross him again.


    But being feared, being unrelenting wasn''t even enough, and it was why Ricky had to be brutal.


    So as the flames finally died down, the only sound remaining was the hissing of the embers, slowly fading into nothingness even the screams, the agony, the terror, all of it was gone.


    Nothing remained except the smolder ashes of everything Nitti had built for himself, gone under Ricky''s wraith.


    The only thing that remained present was Nitti''s office, shielded by Ricky''s barrier.


    Turning away from the smoking wreckage, he walked back toward the office, where Nitti remained, broken and sobbing.


    Ricky threw him away by the collar and tossed him to the side, as though he were little more than an insignificant ragdoll.


    COUGH


    COUGH


    Nitti''s pitiful sobs barely registered in Ricky''s mind as he sifted through the safe, his focus entirely on the task at hand.


    The ebony blade gleamed under the dim lighting of the study as it sliced through the thick metal like it was paper, revealing the hidden wealth within.


    Ricky''s fingers moved swiftly over the deeds, the stacks of cash, the bars of gold, and the ledgers that told the story of Nitti''s empire.


    Now for his reward, for the lengths he went through and the lines he crossed, came the reward of it all.


    One by one, he shoved the papers, the valuables, and the books of accounts into his storage space with cold precision.


    Each piece was another part of the puzzle, another asset added to his growing collection.


    The tangible wealth didn''t matter as much as what came with it;the connections, the influence, the ability to reshape everything around him.


    As he worked, there was no satisfaction, no relief since it wasn''t about pleasure, it was about domination, securing a future where Ricky was the one who dictated the terms.


    "Y-You''re a monster." Nitti heaved out, his tone sobbing as Ricky could only laugh at the irony.


    "Aren''t we all-"


    "NO!" Nitti yelled, interrupting RIcky who turned back to him after stealing all hsi precious pieces of information.


    Sniff


    "I would''ve never done that, killed a family-"


    "Unless you were pushed too." Ricky interrupted Nitti, taking a step forward as his eyes filled with only perseverance.


    "Unless you were kicked out of your home and sent away from everything you cared about and sure, it might be considered running away, but that pain of the unknown, the pain of knowing that the people you care about most are just out there and you can''t do anything about it, it would drive you f*cking insane!" Ricky yelled at Nitti, his anger flushing out through each word while standing before him and bending down to meet his eyes.


    "I''ll give you your credit Frank along with everyone in the commission, since I left here a broken shell of a boy. Someone who only knew how to run and hide, to drink away the pain, and just rot." Ricky hatefully muttered, slurring out what he really thought of his own actions back then, reflecting on the pitiful man he was in the past.


    "But I''m not that boy anymore, I''m not running away from people who don''t even stand in the same league as me, and I''m for damn sure not going to let anyone get away with wronging the people close to me, even if i have to be a hypocrite to do it." Ricky''s eyes were cold as he held up his sword, looking down at him.


    "So when you came after Alina and my boy Moxie, you sealed your fate, you died the second I heard about it-"


    "IT WAS PROFACI!" Nitti screeched, his sobs following out as Ricky''s movements twitched in the air, halting at the arc of his swing.


    "Wha-"


    "JOE ASKED PROFACI, HE KNEW THAT YOU WOULD DO SOMETHING, BUT PROFACI PASSED IT OFF TO ME FOR A FAVOR, A COMPLETE AND UNWAVERING FAVOR!" Nitti wallowed, bitterness lacing his words as he couldn''t shake the feeling that no favor could ever justify what had happened to him.


    Ricky gripped the handle of his sword, the sting of betrayal coursing through him for the first time.


    For all the violence, the bloodshed, the wars fought over power, Ricky had never thought much about loyalty, at least not in a way that mattered since he never had those types of people around him or at least never had the privilege of a knife stabbing into his back.


    But he could feel the sting in his chest as Nitti''s words resonated.


    Profaci, the man who''d been an ally, a mentor, an uncle, even a shadow in the background, had known even had a hand in it.


    He had known what was coming and had passed it off like it was just another favor to be fulfilled.


    Ricky''s pulse quickened, his breath became heavy, and his eyes blackened at the thought as Nitti looked up at him in his vulnerable state, thinking that he could reach out.


    "What we did to you was wrong Slick, I know, but this-...this is too far." Nitti looked up at Ricky, seeing someone unrecognizable from the kid he had met in that meeting almost four years ago for the first time.


    Ricky paused, his sword hovering in the air at the top of his arc, the weight of it in his hand pressing down like a judgment to be passed.


    The words that came from Nitti''s mouth seemed to hang in the air between them, each syllable a drop of poison meant to make him question everything he''d become.


    But it was just too late, he already crossed the line, and the feeling that followed was less a release and more a pull into a void that swallowed everything else.


    His eyes narrowed as he looked at Nitti, a man who had once been an ally, a player in the same game.


    Now, Nitti was nothing more than another casualty, another step along the road Ricky had chosen to walk.


    "Well, I''m prepared to go further."


    SPLAT


    The sound of Nitti''s scream echoed for only a moment before it was silenced by the swift and brutal end Ricky had delivered.


    The blade pierced through the air and found its mark as Nitti''s eyes widened in shock, his breath catching in his throat as his life force began to drain away.


    His body trembled, the once-powerful figure crumpling to the ground like a broken ragdoll, his heart pierced through by the cold steel of Ricky''s sword.


    But Ricky didn''t stop there, he watched for a moment longer, making sure that Nitti''s life had truly slipped away.


    Instead of tossing Nitti''s body aside like a mere pawn in a game that had outlived its usefulness, Ricky turned and opened his storage space as he wasn''t done with him yet, he had other plans for the mob bosses.


    Then, when he arrived out of the portal outside the residence and in the local forest, the place where the bodies of Nitti''s men stacked high, he took a seat on the rock.


    "So this is why you truly brought me here." Alexander finally peeked out of his shirt pocket, looking up at Ricky who ducked his head.


    "Do you think any less of me because of what I''ve done?" Ricky asked suddenly, his voice cutting through the quiet of the forest, the chirps of crickets filling the stillness.


    Alexander knew that this wasn''t something a mere quote from Socrates could solve, but instead, it had to come from the heart.


    "Do you ever wonder, why is it that I rejected the ancient one''s hand, months ago?" Alexander inquired, referring to the previous conversation.


    "No, not really." Ricky shook his head, never really giving it much thought as Alexander slowly crawled out of his shirt pocket before sitting down on his shoulder.


    "Because she cannot understand, they never do." Alexander''s words spoke with such deep meaning but left so much to be unsaid.


    "The beings, the gods that sit in their ivy castles, atop their golden thrones, looking down below." Alexander voiced his bitterness, towards beings that had such unrivaled power from the start.


    "They watch, as if it were a show; the cruelty of man unfolding, the bloodshed, the horror, and witness it all take place under their gaze, as if we are nothing more than ants atop a meaningless anthill, insignificant in their eternal gaze." Alexander spoke, his words sounding out the memories buried deep within his own mind of the horrors faced that are seen as mere insignificant squabbles to gods.


    "They cannot understand the heart wrenching pain of holding an innocent, a child, in your arms as you have to assure them that their is indeed an afterlife and their life wasn''t in vain, all the while their blood stains your attire and fills the sea of reckoning that is your ambition." Alexander''s voice grew more impactful with even more memories forcefully dug up, having to witness it all once more.


    "To them it''s nothing, a mere speck, thinking they understand but never having to rise above the weakness of man." Alexander gripped his tiny paw, shaking it at the gravity of his words.


    "How could anyone who is born with such unparalleled strength, a strength that cannot even be defined with mere words alone." Alexander closed his eyes, the clouds parting under the full moon as even now, his own words couldn''t describe what it is he understood.


    "Such beings, such powerful gods cannot understand killing a man with sheer grit, with the last of your minuscule strength as your muscles burn from the fatigue that they have never felt." Alexander''s voice rose, even higher, towering over the arrogance that was the gods that resided in the clouds above, parting for the full moon that was his defiance.


    "They will NEVER understand the feeling of blood spilling from an innocent, an enemy, and all those that lay in between." Alexander''s defiant voice boomed, turning towards Ricky who was caught up in it.


    "But you must understand this, Ricky." Alexander''s eyes locked onto him for in that moment he wasn''t a gerbil, but Alexander The Great.


    "In this sea of blood, filled with your enemies, your innocent victims, and all those in between that soaks your mind in deep crimson, know this vital fact." Alexander''s voice was not a threat, but a warning for what was to come.


    "You must never become comfortable."


    "You must never lose yourself within that sea of blood and even when I say this, you will reach that moment regardless." Alexander was warning him not to avoid it, but not to embrace that feeling when it came.


    "Overwhelmed in its warmth, you will find yourself at a moment where you start to sink." Alexander held out his paw, this foreboding moment seeking to etch itself into Ricky''s mind.


    "For if you are content with the warmth of the blood around you." Alexander hung his words, leading Ricky on before his eyes spoke of a daring truth while reaching his paw up into the air at that full moon.


    "You will never find the strength to rise above it." Alexander then clenched his paw at the moon, but when he brought it down towards him, there was nothing.


    "To rise above the sea of blood and reach the stars." Alexander closed his eyes, his words forming as if he couldn''t ever go the distance.


    "Do not be like my Ricky, do not drown."


    Alexander was quiet after that, having never shared why or how he died but part of it had to do with his thirst, his bloodlust.


    Alexander''s speeches always left people in silence, but it was because this was something that he could never rise above that made it all the more impactful for Ricky.


    As Ricky sat there, staring at the pile of corpses before him, it wasn''t just that he had crossed a line, he had sealed his fate.


    In that moment, amidst everything, he made a silent vow to Alexander.


    He would rise above it all, above the sea of blood, and reach for the stars.


    And when he did, he would reach down, pull Alexander up alongside him, and show him the world in all its glory, no longer just something to hear of, but something to witness firsthand.


    But that journey would start with two words.


    "Get up."


    DING


    (Common Servant) 22 x Zombie Soldier: Basic rank and file of the Zombie army, performing standard combat roles and carrying out the general will of their superiors.


    "Dig yourselves into the ground and guard against intruders," Ricky commanded, his voice low and firm.


    As he spoke, a gate opened to the surrounding areas of Alina''s house, through which he had already dispatched twenty crawlers to patrol the grounds.


    The creatures moved swiftly, burying themselves into the earth, camouflaging and preparing to strike at any who dared approach.


    Everyone was accounted for under his growing undead army, each of them strategically placed and awaiting his next command.


    Except Maria since she was already under the protection of Profaci, safe for the time being.


    But through it all, Ricky stood still in the forest for a while, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon.


    "Can I ask for some advice?" Ricky closed the portal, finally speaking to Alexander who was quiet for a long time.


    "Of course."


    "How did you manage being at the center of your army and get their respect?" Ricky asked genuinely, his curiosity piqued.


    Alexander the Great, who had been quietly contemplating the question, let a thoughtful smile form on his lips.


    His eyes, sharp with the wisdom of countless battles, flickered with a distant memory as he took a moment before replying, his voice calm but filled with conviction.


    "Respect isn''t something you demand, Ricky." Alexander began, his tone carrying the weight of his experience.


    "You earn it. I fought alongside my men, shared their struggles, their victories, and even their defeats. They saw me bleed, they saw me endure." Alexander''s gaze met Ricky''s, the intensity in his expression unmistakable.


    "But most of all, it was I that led the way, that created the path." Alexander gestured, moving his paw forward towards just a forest to an outsider, but to Ricky, he saw it.


    "I was the first to suffer, the first to feel pain, the first to strike the enemy, and first to claim victory." Alexander showed him the path, what was needed and helped guide him, but it was Ricky who needed to take the steps.


    "It wasn''t sudden, it took time but soon, they followed me." Alexander smiled, remembering the warm memories of his comrades who followed alongside him into battle.


    "But do not forget for a second that they won''t turn on you, for they might be in the pack, but they devour you if you give them a chance." Alexander said, his tone taking on a darker edge, remembering all those who betrayed and the fates that awaited for it.


    "Do you understand?" Alexander asked, turning towards Ricky who opened a gate and took a step forward onto this path.


    "Kind of?" Ricky genuinely nodded, trying to understand but being inexperienced in the area, yet grasping it to a certain extent.


    "But I know war is coming, Alexander. New York''s underbelly is going to be flipped on its head, and I''m going to stand in the center of it." Ricky chuckled, looking at Alexander with a smile while walking into the portal.


    "You must know they will-"


    "It won''t matter because I got this." Ricky held up a black envelope, Alexander looking at it before looking back at him.


    "The commission is going to meet in a month, probably to stand against me and I''m going to win this case by then." Ricky looked at the envelope, smiling as he pocketed it in his jacket while completely submerging himself into the gate.


    "Wouldn''t have it been wiser to keep him alive, to use Chester-"


    "Probably, but I don''t want to be on the defensive, rather, I want them to fortify themselves within their territory, I want to be on the offensive." Ricky chuckled, arriving on top of the statue of liberty and looking down at the city that would be his soon.


    "I want them to prepare, be paranoid almost, knowing that at any time I can strike and evaporate their entire operation." Ricky maniacal smile formed, showing that Dewey wasn''t the only one that was going to suffer to such agonizing degree, but all the mob bosses who were in his way.


    "Then once I have free reign to do as I please, I''ll take it over in one fell swoop." Ricky told Alexander, swiping his hand across the city.


    "A very curious plan, however, aren''t you worried for outside help against Joe-"


    "That''s why I went after the government first. If I went for Joe, the government would have made any excuse to attack me regardless, which is why I started the case first, to take them out before I go for the real pie, my real reward." Ricky''s eyes illuminated the city, spreading out his arms towards the place that would soon collapse under his will.


    "Well, it is a curious way of going about it, but seeing as you''ve put a lot of thought into it, I''ll concede my thoughts for another day," Alexander said, crossing his paws as Ricky raised an eyebrow in slight surprise.


    Usually, Alexander would relentlessly tear down his ideas and plans, but this time, he actually stopped himself.


    "Does Alexander the Great actually think a little highly of my plan?" Ricky suddenly realized, looking down at the gerbil, who scoffed in response.


    "Your plan is still full of a holes, showing it was formed an amaetur-"


    "Yeah, but it shows initiative, something you always encouraged," Ricky interrupted, a slight smirk tugging at his lips as Alexander frowned but merely turned to the side, his posture stiffening slightly.


    "Hahahahahahahaha!" Ricky laughed out, watching Alexander eat his own words as the taste formed a scowl on the Gerbil face.


    "Maybe they should call me, Ricky The Great." Ricky exclaimed, sitting down and enjoying the view for now as Alexander joined him.


    "Do not go overboard, there is still much to come." Alexander patted his cheek, reminding him as Ricky chuckled with a slight shrug.


    "Well, when it comes, I''ll be sure to kick its ass thoroughly."

 Chapter 135 - 130: Supreme Court

    Chapter 135: Chapter 130: Supreme Court


    1 week later,


    In a typical two-story house nestled in a suburban neighborhood of Washington D.C., a woman''s eyes fluttered open.


    Her complexion was unremarkable, and her features leaned slightly above average, there was nothing inherently flawed about her, yet nothing particularly striking either.


    She had brown hair and brown eyes, both dull and unassuming and slowly, she sat up and glanced to the side, her gaze lingering on the empty space beside her on the bed.


    After a moment of hesitation, she turned over and rose, her steps carrying her to the bathroom.


    There, she carried out a quick, mechanical morning routine before making her way to the kitchen to prepare a modest breakfast.


    On the counter lay a neatly arranged shopping list, prepared with care the day before as she picked it up on her way to the broom closet.


    While slipping on her coat, her eyes drifted toward a painting tucked away at the back of the closet.


    For a fleeting moment, a flicker of emotion broke through her otherwise stoic demeanor, but she quickly turned away, suppressing whatever feelings had surfaced.


    Walking towards the door, she got into her car and checked all of her mirrors before exiting the driveway.


    The convenience store was relatively close, and the roads were quiet, with barely any cars in sight.


    However, as she approached, the headlights of one particular car suddenly flickered on, cutting through the stillness.


    The woman reached the store without any trouble, greeting the familiar store clerk who, with a hint of hesitation, asked about her situation. As always, she offered a practiced smile and reassured them that everything would work out in the end.


    She moved on to her task, gathering items and methodically crossing them off her list one by one.


    When she reached the counter to pay, the interaction was as uneventful as the rest of her day.


    For an uneventful routine, to get through the uneventful day, and all for an uneventful life.


    Walking out of the store, she loaded her groceries into the back seat and then paused by the driver''s door, letting out a weary sigh.


    Sliding into the car, she sat for a moment, her gaze fixed on the horizon, lost in thought, before finally turning the ignition and backing out of the parking lot.


    BAM


    Then, an event occurred that would forever change the course of this ordinary housewife''s life as her car was abruptly rear-ended in the store''s parking lot.


    GASP


    "Oh, heavens!" She exclaimed, her voice trembling while still in a daze, her stomach sank as she stepped out of the car, her mind racing with the fear that she might somehow be at fault.


    "A-Are you alright?" she stammered, growing more frantic as she saw the airbag deploy, inflating in the car seat.


    "Man, these airbags really have a kick."


    As the man pushed the airbag aside, it was revealed that it was Ricky behind the wheel of the other car.


    But when one looked closer, one would notice something strange as the steering wheel, where the airbag had deployed, appeared to have been pried off.


    "Oh no, I-I am so sorry!" The woman gasped, covering her mouth while not even realizing who Ricky was as he rubbed the back of his head.


    "Well, since we''ve rammed cars, I guess an introduction is in order. I''m Ricky." Ricky said, stepping out of the car.


    His towering figure loomed over her, and his toothy smile, paired with a voice that sent a shiver down her spine, left the woman speechless as a flush spread across her cheeks as she struggled to find her words.


    ''O-Oh my, get it together.'' The woman realized that she had been staring at Ricky for a little too long, shaking her head before holding out her hand.


    "My name is Frances Dewey, nice to meet you." France''s said, offering a nervous smile as she tried to suppress the blush creeping up her cheeks as her eyes dropped to the ground, a hint of shame in her behavior.


    Ricky, however, was all smiles as his grin widened even further, his eyes narrowing into crescent moons as he studied her.


    "It''s nice to meet you too."


    DING


    Meanwhile at the White House,


    "Mr. President, Frank Nitti has turned up dead-"


    "In a house fire, I read the newspaper, but I''m too busy to entertain the paranoia that this is connected to Ricky Luciano." Franklin D. Roosevelt interrupted Joe, jotting something down on a notepad.


    "Mr. President-"


    "I won''t repeat myself. Besides, Ricky Luciano has already embedded himself into America''s heart, so I''d rather crush him here than assure a mobster." Franklin said, stopping his writing and looking up, clearly having had enough of Joe.


    "Once I do, you should focus your efforts on the task I originally entrusted to you instead of monopolizing my phone line. Good day." Franklin said, abruptly hanging up on Joe as he continued writing for a moment before finally looking up at a particular man in the room.


    Dewey sat before him, his gaze disheveled and defeated, as if his entire world had been torn apart.


    Everyone around him had been shattered, and the foundation that once held him up had finally given way.


    His reputation, career, and public identity had been obliterated with the news of his murder trial surfacing.


    On top of that, Hawkins, his supposed co-conspirator, had named him in his suicide note as the mastermind behind the murder, leaving Dewey as the only person to bear the blame.


    Now, Dewey found himself in the custody of the United States, continuing the appeal of the trial against Ricky Luciano.


    In fact, Dewey had already been fired and stripped of his license and the only reason he was even here was because the defendant was required to be present for the appeal case.


    Right now, he wasn''t a man of justice, but rather a prisoner in the custody of the United States government.


    Dewey had become nothing more than a convict, unable to even see his own wife while he was confined to an apartment whenever he wasn''t at court.


    Now, he sat before the President of the United States not as District Attorney filled with righteousness, but now a hollowed man reduced to the status of a criminal.


    "I assume you understand that your entire career is in ruins, and there''s nothing you can do to ever step foot in a government position again, correct?" Franklin finally addressed him, his cold eyes seemingly forcing Dewey to lower his head, his hand gripping his pant leg in a gesture of despair.


    "Yes, Mr. President."


    "Then all that hate and drive that led you down this path, the hole you''re sinking into, make sure to drag Ricky Luciano down with you, for the good of your country. Maybe then a deal can be arranged." Franklin''s gaze locked onto Dewey''s, his eyes holding the last flicker of hope for him. Dewey closed his eyes, nodding in reluctant agreement.


    "Then everyone leave, I have a prior engagement to attend to," Franklin said, his eyes drifting toward his cabinet, who all nodded in understanding.


    "Yes, Mr. President." They replied in unison, before making their exit. Franklin crossed his hands, watching as they filed out, leaving him alone in the room.


    Knock


    Knock


    "Come in," Franklin called, gesturing toward the door as a man entered, his face marked with clear displeasure as he stepped into the room.


    "Mr. President," the man greeted formally, though there was no warmth in his voice.


    "Please, sit," Franklin smiled, gesturing to the chair, but the man raised his hand, declining the offer.


    "I''ll stand." The man firmly stood in place as if it was a form of protest.


    This wasn''t just any politician or simple representative, but the former U.S. Representative of the Conservative Republican Party, James M. Beck.


    However, unlike the other politicians of his time, James M. Beck didn''t look at the President with any respect and instead, he showed clear displeasure and discontent with the man who had summoned him.


    The ripple effect caused by Ricky had led James to resign from Congress two years earlier than intended, citing that Congress had become ''merely a rubber stamp for the Executive''.


    Beck had been a constant thorn in the side of the Democratic Party for years, always at the forefront of efforts to oppose the advancement of civil cases and liberal policies.


    "Congressman-"


    "Former Congressman," James corrected, his tone sharp. Franklin let out a small chuckle, nodding in acknowledgment.


    "I almost forgot," Franklin chuckled, pulling out James'' resignation letter and smiling at him.


    RIP


    "I called you in here to tell you that I don''t acknowledge your resignation. Your country needs you now more than ever," Franklin said, his eyes fierce as he smiled, watching James'' visible displeasure.


    "Unlike everyone else Mr. President, I won''t be lead on nor will I be coaxed-"


    "Even if I revise the New Deal?" Franklin pressed, getting straight to the point of what the man before him wanted as James narrowed his eyes, considering the proposition.


    "If you crush Ricky Luciano''s case against the Supreme Court, I will personally have you on the committee working on the bill," Franklin offered, which immediately made James raise his gaze, clearly intrigued by the proposition.


    "I want full-"


    "Partial-"


    "Deal." James stepped forward, fully aware that even partial authority over this bill could spell success for his party.


    Meanwhile at a residence Hotel,


    At a rundown motel, Ricky sat outside on the porch, knowing that no other hotel in the city would dare touch him with a twenty-foot pole.


    "KILL YOURSELF!"


    "YOU DIRTY F*CKING MUTANT!"


    The chants spilled from the protesters, their hateful slogans unchanged even as the faces in the crowd shifted.


    But there was a clear difference now.


    This hate, the same venom that had been directed at Ricky, carried an undercurrent that felt different from the usual animosity unleashed when a civil case was brought to the higher courts.


    Ricky could see it in their eyes, the attempt to mask it with even more hateful words, but for anyone who looked closely, it was unmistakable: they were afraid.


    Fear pulsed beneath their words, fear of the unknown that had suddenly forced its way into their lives, threatening to upend everything they had ever known.


    But the fear ran even deeper.


    It wasn''t just about race, not entirely as the easy narratives of superiority; of noses, of skin, of features, had long been ingrained in their minds.


    But as they looked at Ricky, on his balcony overlooking them with superior features, their assumptions faltered.


    His skin, like theirs, was what they considered human and even his features were better than there''s.


    But it gave way to the real issue, something more innate: the fear of what he represented.


    It wasn''t just about his difference; his race, his appearance, but about the power he could wield.


    The fear of a mutant who could stop a bullet, something no human could do, and now, this mutant wanted the same rights they had.


    The fear wasn''t only of being compared to someone like Ricky, but of being forced to confront the terrifying possibility of what it would mean to face someone like him in a world where power was no longer solely in regular human hands.


    The uncertainty of what would happen if they, too, were thrust into that fight for survival against Ricky.


    They had to ask themselves one question: Could they even stand against him?


    It was why they were metaphorically barricading themselves against that possibility, trying to drown him in the same hate that had mentally destroyed all those before him.


    They hoped to break him, to make him feel less than, to crush his spirit with the weight of their fear and yet, even in the face of it all, Ricky smiled.


    "Ah~" Ricky let out a refreshing sigh after taking a sip of his morning coffee, raising his cup as if toasting to them with a small, knowing laugh.


    "Do you really have to antagonize them?" Raven asked from inside, her voice soft but laced with amusement as she walked over and slinked her arms around his waist, pressing a gentle kiss to his back.


    She took a deep breath, inhaling his scent as if it grounded her and without realizing it, she had become completely consumed by Ricky''s presence, and she would feel a little lost without the familiar, comforting scent of him close by.


    "I mean, no, but where''s the fun in that?" Ricky laughed, his voice low and playful as he turned around, his hand gently caressing her cheek as she leaned into him, her eyes softening under his touch.


    "Ricky, about the case-"


    "I know, I know." Ricky murmured, swaying gently with Raven as he danced with her as she rested her head against his chest, finding comfort in the steady rhythm of his movements, her body relaxed against his.


    Over the course of the week, Raven had barely left Ricky''s side.


    When Ricky wasn''t being prepped by Marshall or Chester, he was with her, and their time together had been consumed by endless conversation.


    Whether it was with words or their bodies, they communicated in ways that went beyond the surface.


    But even if she was aware, Raven couldn''t help but find herself drawn deeper into Ricky''s presence, feeling utterly consumed by him.


    She couldn''t bring herself to say no to anything he asked for, his influence over her growing with each passing day.


    Then, one evening, he made a daring proposal, one that would test her limits and pull them both further into uncharted territory.


    "Reveal yourself to the world during my case and stand by me."


    Ricky''s proposal was layered with a complexity as he wanted Raven to act as a witness, her knowledge of mutant discrimination giving her voice a weight that could resonate in court.


    It was an opportunity for her to make a real impact, something that she had always dreamed about.


    But beneath that reason, there was a much more selfish desire as he honestly didn''t need her to testify, he could win this case without her.


    It was a tricky plan, one that would require meticulous effort and careful execution. But with Chester by his side, Ricky felt almost certain of his success.


    No one would suspect a crow, someone so seemingly unassuming, could wield such power, especially when it came to witness tampering.


    However, what he wanted, more than anything, was to force an undeniable association between them.


    Ricky wanted Raven in the spotlight, inextricably linked to him, so that if she ever considered running or stepping away, she''d find it impossible to escape him.


    He knew Raven''s ability to vanish, to hide, but with her name tied to his in the public eye, she wouldn''t have the same luxury.


    The more Ricky spent time with Raven, the more he realized he didn''t want her to slip through his fingers like last time.


    She wasn''t just another person in his life; she had become a presence he couldn''t ignore, a constant pull he couldn''t resist.


    His thoughts drifted toward the future, towards keeping her close, making plans to ensure she stayed by his side but there was an undeniable complication in the form of Destiny.


    Raven still hadn''t given him a definitive answer, despite the chemistry that clearly existed between them.


    She was torn, caught between the overwhelming force that Ricky represented and the relationship she still maintained with Destiny.


    As more time passed, Ricky''s presence in Raven''s life began to weave a different narrative in her mind.


    He filled her thoughts with visions of a future that seemed foreign yet tantalizing along with sweet dreams, of a life where she didn''t have to constantly look over her shoulder, always be on the run.


    Raven had never really had a place to call home and growing up, everything seemed momentary, fleeting.


    Relationships were temporary, and security was a concept she never quite understood.


    But with Ricky, there was something different as he painted a picture of a life she hadn''t allowed herself to dream about; a home, a family, a place where she could finally belong.


    Deep down, Raven yearned for that and longed for a foundation, a sense of peace that she had never truly known.


    "But the diaries-"


    "Are wrong or too misleading, I mean, did they say anything about me?" Ricky''s voice was soft but insistent as he leaned in close, his lips brushing against her ear, planting seeds of doubt in her mind.


    "I need more time to think, Ricky, it''s all too much." Raven looked up at him, her eyes filled with conflict, but before she could say anything more, he kissed her gently on the lips, the gesture both comforting and confusing.


    "Of course, take all the time you need." Ricky smiled stretched deeper, resting her head on his chest while Shadow Broker did the lord''s work from the side.


    "But you''ll still come to the hearing, right?" Ricky asked softly, resting his head on her shoulder. He swayed with her, moving to the rhythm of the hateful chants from the mob outside, their anger pulsing through the air like an unseen beat.


    "Of course, I wouldn''t miss it," Raven chuckled, her fingers lightly running through his slicked-back hair before pulling away, her touch lingering for just a moment longer than necessary.


    "But go get ready, I''ll meet you there." Raven said, planting a quick kiss on his cheek before swaying away, her hips moving gracefully as she shifted into another form of a brunette.


    "And now my heart aches," Ricky muttered with a dramatic sigh, watching her disappear around the corner with a laugh and with a shake of his head, he turned to head off and get ready himself.


    Slipping discreetly away from the motel and the prying eyes, Raven made her way to a secluded telephone booth.


    The quiet hum of the city surrounded her as she dialed the number, each click of the rotary bringing her closer to her destination.


    After a moment, the line connected, and a gentle, familiar voice pursed through the phone.


    "Raven?" Irene''s voice came through the phone, laced with concern as she leaned against the phone booth.


    "Yeah, it''s me." Raven spoke softly, her voice betraying the conflict she felt as she rubbed her shoulder.


    "I-I was worried about you, my visions are starting to blur, and after you didn''t check in, and I assumed the worst." Irene''s voice trembled through the phone as the concern was clear in her tone.


    "And what is happening with the case, I thought you were going to handle it but now it''s proceeding to the supreme court." Irene''s voice followed up to their true motive, to where the concern really lay.


    "Everything is changing and the plan-"


    "I''m calling about the plan-........what if we help Ricky Luciano?" Raven spoke slowly into the phone, her words hanging in the air with a long pause following before Irene let out a deep sigh.


    "Raven, please don''t tell me you''ve promised to help him," Irene''s voice came through the phone, tinged with frustration.


    She knew all too well how easily Raven could be swept up in a cause, especially when it promised a chance to change her future.


    "It''s just that his case-"


    "Ricky Luciano''s case is already causing too many shifts in my visions and, furthermore, drawing more media attention and public backlash against mutants," Irene spoke over Raven, asserting herself toward her.


    "I promised you that I''d bring us toward a future where mutants could live in peace and I meant that, but to do that, sacrifices need to be made and situations altered-''


    "But it''s just that, we could really make a difference!" Raven spoke through the phone, Ricky''s words ensnaring her deeper as she thought about everything this civil case could do for mutant kind.


    "This has the potential to set a precedent, to bring about the change we''ve hoped for-"


    "Raven."


    One unsettling word came through the phone, forcing Raven to flinch instinctively as it held no warmth, no love, only a directness that she had come to know all too well.


    "Raven, dear, this will only bring about uncertainty and possible destruction." Irene''s voice was low, yet it seemed to tower over Raven, forcing a heavy silence to follow.


    "For our goals, for mutants, and for us, you need to stop this case for my visions are growing even blurryer by the day." Irene''s words weren''t her asking anymore but telling, showing that the control she had so perfectly orchestrated was slipping from her hands.


    Raven was quiet, pressing her head against the booth and staring off into the distance as Irene patiently waited.


    "I trust that you''ll make the right decision, I''ll see you when you come home." Irene ended the conversation first, leaving Raven all alone to ponder her thoughts.


    Hanging up the phone and walking down the street, Raven couldn''t help but think over everything she had lived for.


    In fact, Raven was tired.


    Forced to wear this mask, to hide her true self, shifting between identities, never able to let anyone in.


    Each betrayal, each loss, added a new layer to the emotional armor she wore, making her cold, calculating, and untrusting.


    She had seen the worst of humanity, manipulated by those who claimed to understand her plight, all while knowing that deep down, they feared her for what she truly was.


    Years of living in shadows, fighting wars for survival, and losing the ones she loved weighed heavily on her.


    Every step she took reminded her of the countless lives she had outlived, the horrors she had faced.


    There were times when she had nearly given up, when the darkness seemed like a more inviting refuge than the endless battles she waged.


    Yet, now, as she hung up the phone and walked down the street, a weariness settled into her bones.


    It wasn''t just physical exhaustion but a deeper, soul-crushing fatigue that came from years of living a life in constant turmoil.


    She had fought, schemed, and sacrificed to carve out a place for herself in a world that barely acknowledged her worth.


    But meeting Irene had stirred something inside her, it was as if, for the first time in years, there was a flicker of hope.


    Irene saw her, the real Raven, and not just the fac?ade she presented to the world.


    There was no judgment in her eyes, only acceptance and the promise of a brighter future.


    And though Raven was exhausted from the endless cycles of deception and violence, the thought of Irene was a lifeline as it whispered the possibility of something different, something better.


    Over time, however, that flicker of hope began to dim.


    Despite all her efforts; her sacrifices, her battles, her cunning, Raven found herself standing in the same place, surrounded by the same hatred.


    It seemed no matter what she did, the world remained hostile, unyielding in its fear of her kind.


    The victories she once fought for, the changes she once believed in, felt meaningless in the face of the constant backlash as every step forward was met with two steps back.


    She had tried so hard, sometimes too hard, to bend the world to her will, to create a place where she and her people could live free from fear.


    But instead of progress, there was only more anger, more rejection and with each failure, Raven''s heart grew heavier.


    The spark of hope that Irene had ignited was no longer enough to stave off the growing emptiness inside her.


    It was as if everything she did, every plan she crafted, only fanned the flames of hatred, reinforcing the very systems she sought to dismantle.


    The emptiness gnawed at her, a deep void that no amount of rage or vengeance could fill and for years, Raven had thrived on the thrill of the fight for her beliefs, but now, even that was losing its meaning.


    That emptiness within Raven lingered until the day she crossed paths with Ricky, years ago, after she had stolen from the Mexican cartel.


    She had anticipated the fallout, the pursuit, and the dangers that would follow her theft, but never could she have expected Ricky.


    His words, cheesy and yet so haunting, had pierced through her hardened exterior like no one else''s ever had.


    Ricky was bold, sleazy, fearless, and spoke with a smooth clarity that unnerved her, leaving her with a lingering sense of discomfort long after they parted ways.


    In those early days, she thought of him as nothing more than an inconvenience, a fly that refused to leave her alone, constantly buzzing at the edges of her world.


    Yet, no matter how much distance she put between them, he always seemed to reappear, as if she was drawn to the chaos he induced, like they were bound by some unspoken connection.


    Ricky didn''t just linger in her mind; he was a force she couldn''t shake and everywhere she turned, news about him would pop up.


    Years passed, and when she saw him again, something had shifted.


    Ricky wasn''t the same reckless young man she had first encountered as he had grown, changed.


    The fire she had once seen in his eyes was still there, but it was tempered by something more profound.


    He had begun to transform not just himself, but the people, the world around him, reshaping the landscape with a reckless yet controlled determination that fascinated her as he was no longer going around chasing chaos; he was trying to control it, mold it.


    It wasn''t immediate, there were others with more and those who could do it better, but Ricky was just unrelenting.


    That was the thing Raven found herself admiring about him, in a way she hadn''t admired anyone in a long time.


    Ricky, against all odds, was actually changing things; something she had long since stopped believing was possible.


    Watching him rise, where she had stumbled, lit a spark within her once again.


    And that made her jealous, but at the same time, she couldn''t turn away and Raven found herself standing outside the courthouse where Ricky would be presenting his case.


    Disguised as a reporter, she observed the growing tension in the air as the crowd was relentless, hurling comments and accusations, their voices blending into a cacophony of hate.


    Lights flashed as Ricky walked into the building, his presence almost magnetic as he moved through it all, his eyes unwavering and when Raven watched, her heart suddenly tore between loyalty and uncertainty.


    Everything was held in that smile he wore, a mix of defiance and confidence that cut through the hate-filled crowd.


    Raven couldn''t look away, even as he waved, his calm and cocky demeanor rose above all the hate constantly surrounding him.


    She slipped into the courthouse, blending in as another face in the sea of onlookers.


    The air was thick with murmurs, the room already packed with people eager to witness the day''s proceedings.


    Raven found an empty seat, her eyes scanning the room, searching for familiar faces.


    Amidst the sea of regular people, the ordinary faces, there were a few distinct ones, mutants who sat with their heads held just a little higher.


    Their eyes followed Ricky with a mix of hope and awe, seeing in him something they hadn''t dared to dream of in years: a voice.


    A voice unafraid to speak up for their pain, their struggles, their existence.


    These were the people who had grown up in the shadows, haunted by the constant fear of being found out, of never being able to rise beyond the stigma that clung to them.


    Yet, here they were, in this room, their eyes locked on Ricky as he stood beside Marshall, laughing effortlessly, as if the weight of the world didn''t rest on his shoulders.


    They saw him not just as a man, but as a symbol of something that could be more, something they could finally believe in.


    Raven''s eyes welled up in that moment, her heart tightening as she watched Ricky, but even then, she smiled.


    ''Go get them Ricky.''


    "Will you stop laughing at me, this tie is nice!" Marshall blushed furiously, trying to hide his tie that had poca dots as Ricky held his stomach.


    "Y-You wore poca dots to the biggest trial of your life-"


    SNORT


    Ricky snorted, unable to hold down his laughter as Marshall crumbled under it before he sought to change the subject.


    "Alright listen up Ricky, I know we''ve been over this but for a quick run down, the supreme court is different in that the cases are broken up like this-"


    Before the hearing, the Court selects which cases to hear and this process is known as granting a writ of certiorari.


    Four of the nine justices must agree to hear the case for it to be accepted and typically, these cases involve significant constitutional questions or conflicts between lower courts.


    If accepted, the appealing case moves on to the ''Briefs Submission'' stage, where both parties; the petitioner, who is appealing the case, and the respondent, defending the lower court''s ruling, submit written briefs before the hearing.


    These briefs outline their legal arguments, citing relevant cases and legal precedents.


    Additionally, amicus curiae briefs (friend-of-the-court briefs) may be filed by outside parties with a significant interest in the case.


    Then once those tiring documents are submitted, the hearing itself primarily consists of oral arguments.


    Each side has a limited amount of time, usually like 30 minutes per side, to present their case before the justices while the petitioner goes first, followed by the respondent.


    How it works is quite simple, the lawyers stand at a podium to deliver their arguments.


    But this is where things are different than regular cases as during this time, the justices can (and often do) interrupt to ask questions.


    The justices'' questions can reveal their thoughts, but they are also designed to challenge the lawyers and clarify points.


    In fact, the justices are typically very active during oral arguments, and their questions can sometimes dominate the time allotted.


    This is where lawyers might struggle since they must be prepared for tough, rapid-fire questioning.


    Justices may ask about specific legal precedents, hypotheticals, or the broader implications of the case and will not be afraid to go for the throat at most times.


    After both sides have presented, the petitioner may have a brief period to offer a rebuttal to the respondent''s arguments which really allows them to respond to points raised during the hearing.


    After oral arguments conclude, the justices meet privately to discuss the case in a conference.


    No one else is present during these deliberations as the Chief Justice usually starts the discussion, followed by each justice in order of seniority.


    The justices express their views and leanings on how the case should be resolved.


    Then if you thought it would be over then you''d be wrong since after reaching a preliminary decision, one justice is assigned to write the majority opinion, which explains the Court''s decision and the legal reasoning behind it.


    If the Chief Justice is in the majority, they typically assign the opinion writing; if not, the most senior justice in the majority assigns it.


    But justices who disagree with the majority can write dissenting opinions, and sometimes a concurring opinion is written by justices who agree with the outcome but not the reasoning behind it.


    Then finally, once the opinions are finalized, the Court announces its decision, which can sometimes happen months after the hearing.


    The decision is read in the courtroom, and written opinions are released to the public.


    "I know we''ve gone over this, but we''re at the oral arguments now," Marshall said, side-eyeing the man standing next to a cuffed Dewey, who was glaring at Marshall.


    "Slick listen, this is the big leagues and that''s Jame M. Beck-"


    "Wait, don''t tell me, he''s famous in this area." Ricky let out in a complete boredom, resting his hand on his head.


    "If Hawkins was a prominent man, then he''s notorious¡ªhe''s the conservative party''s steamroller for civil cases," Marshall said, nervously taking a deep breath as Ricky leaned back, while James didn''t even bother to look at him.


    "Now the justices, they consist of-"


    Charles Evans Hughes - Chief Justice:


    Appointed by: President Herbert Hoover


    Term: 1930-Present


    Notable: Hughes had served as an Associate Justice from 1910 to 1916 but resigned to run for president and then failed. He returned to the Court as Chief Justice in 1930. He has led the Court through several critical cases related to New Deal legislation under Franklin Roosevelt.


    Willis Van Devanter - Associate Justice:


    Appointed by: President William Howard Taft


    Term: 1911-Present


    Notable: Willis is a conservative justice who opposed much of Franklin D. Roosevelt''s New Deal legislation, a part of a shared moniker that is known as the "Four Horsemen" a group of four justices known for their opposition to the New Deal.


    James Clark McReynolds - Associate Justice:


    Appointed by: President Woodrow Wilson


    Term: 1914-Present


    Notable: McReynolds was another conservative justice and fierce opponent of New Deal policies. A part of the four horsemen and is regarded for his strong personality and often controversial views, particularly regarding civil rights.


    Louis Brandeis - Associate Justice:


    Appointed by: President Woodrow Wilson


    Term: 1916-Present


    Notable: Brandeis was a progressive justice and an avid supporter of New Deal reforms. He was even the first Jewish justice on the Supreme Court and is well known for his advocacy of free speech.


    George Sutherland - Associate Justice:


    Appointed by: President Warren G. Harding


    Term: 1922-Present


    Notable: Sutherland was a conservative member of the Court and also part of the Four Horsemen. He is a very strong advocate of limited government intervention in the economy and is very vocal about this stance in the media.


    Pierce Butler - Associate Justice:


    Appointed by: President Warren G. Harding


    Term: 1923-Present


    Notable: He is a conservative catholic justice, Butler is known for his opposition to New Deal measures, often siding with the other conservative justices on the Court.


    Harlan F. Stone - Associate Justice:


    Appointed by: President Calvin Coolidge


    Term: 1925-Present


    Notable: A more moderate and later liberal justice, Stone supported much of Roosevelt''s New Deal legislation and is known for his defense of civil liberties.


    Owen J. Roberts - Associate Justice:


    Appointed by: President Herbert Hoover


    Term: 1930-Present


    Notable: Roberts played a crucial role in the so-called "switch in time that saved nine" where he shifted his vote to uphold certain New Deal measures, which is often seen as helping to prevent Roosevelt''s court-packing plan.


    Benjamin N. Cardozo - Associate Justice:


    Appointed by: President Herbert Hoover


    Term: 1932-Present


    Notable: Cardozo was a liberal justice and a strong supporter of New Deal policies. He was renowned for his judicial philosophy and contributions to modern American law.


    "Louis Brandeis, Benjamin N. Cardozo, and Harlan F. Stone will most likely take our side, as they''re strong advocates for social reform. But the others, well, will be tricky." Marshall wiped his forehead, adjusting himself before glancing at Ricky, who was casually picking his teeth.


    "I have a plan, don''t worry too much." Ricky tapped Marshall''s shoulder, rubbing his fingers along the fabric of his suit as Marshall raised an eyebrow in surprise.


    "Wait, what plan-"


    BAM


    BAM


    "Order, order!" Chief Justice Hughes commanded, his voice cutting through the chatter of the bustling room, commanding the attention of everyone present for the highly anticipated case.


    As Marshall prepared to address the Court, his mind raced through the key points he had to make:


    The stop and search was not grounded with not a single concrete suspicion of criminal activity but solely in the fear that Ricky was a mutant.


    The Constitution''s protection under the Fourth Amendment applies to all individuals, regardless of genetic background.


    If the Court allowed this overreach, it would set a dangerous precedent, allowing the government to target any minority group based on fear and prejudice.


    (reminder have them asking questions)


    ''Beck''s argument would likely center around public safety, the supposed threat mutants posed, and how authorities were justified in their actions.'' Marshall said to himself, knowing the heart of the matter was simple: liberty and the law could not bend to fear.


    "We will now hear the case of Ricky Luciano v. State." Chief Justice Hughes declared while leaning forward, his hands clasped before him, signaling the time had come.


    "May it please the Court." Marshall rose, his heart steady and as he began, his voice carried a resolute tone.


    "Today, we are not simply arguing about the unlawful search of one individual''s car. We are standing at the intersection of fear and freedom, where the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution must not be diluted by prejudice, nor sacrificed in the name of public suspicion." Marshall started, summarizing those three points from earlier into his introduction.


    "We contend." Marshall continued, eyeing the justices who didn''t interrupt him in the least.


    "Ricky Luciano was subjected to a search and seizure not because of any evidence of wrongdoing, but solely based on his identity as a mutant. This case is not about whether Ricky Luciano has or has not committed any crime, no such evidence was ever presented or even suggested. It is about whether the government has the right to violate an individual''s constitutional protections simply because of who they are." Marshall furthered his first point perfectly, showing that they were a country built on freedom, not tyranny.


    "The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution is clear. It ensures that ''the right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated.'' The text does not specify exceptions for mutants, for those deemed different, or for individuals perceived as threats. It is a universal protection." Marshall was becoming more passionate while voicing his second point, finding his groove before his gaze shifted to the justices, his voice steady and compelling.


    "The state''s actions in this case reflect an overreach into the personal lives of individuals, driven by prejudice rather than evidence. If allowed to stand, this would set a precedent that government authorities could target and violate the rights of any person based on their genetic makeup, personal characteristics, or simply because they are different. This is a dangerous path, one that erodes the very principles of equality and justice upon which our nation was founded." Marshall took a breath but when he did, one of the justices spoke first.


    "Son, how does this erode the very principles of equality when it could be argued that the state is simply trying to protect its citizens from potential harm?" Justice Devanter''s voice was sharp, his eyes focused intently on Marshall as he leaned forward, eager to probe deeper into the matter.


    Marshall''s hands clenched slightly, the pressure mounting but it wasn''t anything he wasn''t used to as he had anticipated pushback.


    But the courtesy and directness of it left him a bit off balance as he opened his mouth but hesitated, scrambling for the words to justify his stance.


    "Well, uh-" Marshall stammered, his confidence faltering for a brief moment.


    "The issue is that the government shouldn''t be able to target individuals-"


    "But the state is merely acting out of concern, son. If mutants are a potential threat to public safety, surely it''s not unreasonable to take precautions. Where do you draw the line between civil liberties and public protection?" Devanter cut him off, his voice steady and dismissive as it pushed even deeper in Marshall''s heistance.


    "I understand the need for protection, but-" Marshall''s head was spinning, his over preparation sowing the seeds of doubt into every word that was about to be spoken, leaving them somewhat tangled.


    Before he could gather his thoughts, Justice Sutherland, one of the other four horsemen, who had been silent until now, chimed in with a cold and cutting remark.


    "Mr. Marshall, you''re suggesting we put the Constitution above the safety of the public? Are you saying that we should ignore the potential threat that mutants pose, simply because of their genetic makeup?" Sutherland''s voice dripped with skepticism, his southern tone making Marshall feel small in front of the bench.


    This was different and Marshall was starting to understand why.


    These weren''t judges from backside counties, thatweren''t experienced with mere civil conflicts, this was the heart of American Law.


    These men have looked before lawyers just like Marshall, and crushed them.


    It honestly didn''t bother them that he was a Negro because they were already better than him, more experienced then him, and the height in which they sat while looking down at him showed that.


    They didn''t need to degrade him, they didn''t even need to play dirty, all they had to do was wait until this inexperienced youngster built himself up, before they would just tear him down.


    But in that same regard, this was different, he was different.


    Unlike lawyers, having gone to some ivy school and seeking to make a name for themselves that wasn''t attached to their rich daddies, Marshall had nothing.


    He was nothing, but that just made him hungry.


    "Your Honor, it''s not about putting the Constitution above safety," Marshall finally said, his voice a little shaky at first but pulling himself up by his own bootstraps, just like he''d always done before.


    "It''s about maintaining the principles that protect everyone equally. The Fourth Amendment wasn''t written with exceptions in mind. If we allow one group to be targeted because they''re different, it opens the door for all kinds of abuses; whether it''s race, religion, or, yes, genetic makeup. We cannot allow fear of the unknown to dictate how we treat people, let fear dictate how we run this country." Marshall''s voice boomed, puffing his chest and standing before the white men who sought to always put him down, he was making a stand.


    "And yet, you want us to allow potential threats to go unchecked because of an abstract principle? You''re asking the Court to overlook a tangible risk for the sake of an ideal." Sutherland''s southern voice echoed out, prompting him to lean forward, his eyes narrowing.


    "That''s a fine line to walk, don''t you think?" Sutherland looked down upon this negro, showing rather than telling how little respect he had for the man in front of him.


    "I''m not asking for unchecked freedom and neither is my client, Justice Sutherland." Marshall said, his voice firmer this time, feeling actually comfortable when Sutherland showed him that gaze.


    "I''m asking for the government to have evidence, actual proof, before it can infringe on someone''s rights. This case is not about protecting what could be, it is about ensuring that no one''s rights are trampled because of who they are, not because of something they''ve done. We cannot let suspicion be enough to strip away what makes us equal under the law." Marshall circled back to this point but Devanter just wasn''t having it.


    "But if we don''t allow the state to act in situations like this, then we risk letting something terrible happen. How can you justify that?" Devanter wondered out loud, pressing the risk that a mutant can have onto Marshall.


    But instead of disregarding it or putting it to the side, Marshall looked Devanter straight in the eye as if embracing it.


    "I can justify it because we''ve seen what happens when we allow fear to drive decisions." Marshall said, his voice gaining strength with each word as that shaky feeling in his voice evaporated.


    "We cannot make decisions based on fear of the unknown; it only leads to suffering. We must stick to the principles that have made this country great; equality, fairness, and freedom for all." Marshall spread out his arms, the justices watching this traction but even when Devantar backed up, Sutherland wasn''t finished.


    "It is easy to speak of fairness and equality, but what do you say to the families of those who are harmed by mutants? To the citizens who live in constant fear, knowing that anyone, anyone, can wield such horrifying power without restriction?" Sutherland paused, letting the silence and doubt settle before continuing.


    "Would you put their safety at risk for the sake of this, idealism?" Sutherland wasn''t hiding it anymore, indirectly showing that Marshall was actually getting to him as the other justices realized this too.


    "The government has a responsibility to protect citizens, that is tribe and truth"Marshall said, his voice growing steadier as he was reveling in Sutherlands ill intent, finding it comfortable rather than growing anxious.


    "But we cannot do so at the expense of our fundamental freedoms. If we begin targeting people based on fear, we set a precedent that destroys the very foundation of equality. Safety should never come at the cost of the unknown and it only sets up the destruction of everything we have created." Marshall reverberated, hitting that same point home over and over again, making sure what would happen if this was allowed to go on.


    What was remarkable to the justices watching wasn''t how Marshall responded, any lawyer in the room could have given a similar answer.


    It was how easily he recovered as the justices knew all too well that those two were notorious for crushing rookie lawyers, and yet, Marshall wasn''t a typical newcomer.


    They knew his reputation, and now that they saw his ability to regain composure so swiftly, it wouldn''t go unnoticed.


    But it made one smile as he looked down at his future pupil without even knowing.


    "Mr. Marshall, please continue your oral statement." Louis Brandeis, who was smiling, gestured towards Marshall who flinched.


    Ahem


    "In the interest of justice, we ask this Court to affirm that the protections of the Constitution apply equally to all individuals, regardless of their genetic identity. To uphold the rule of law is to ensure that every person, no matter their background or abilities, is afforded the same rights and freedoms." Marshall continued, voicing his third point that was pushed to the side for questioning by the justices but perfectly got back on track.


    Marshall glanced towards James M. Beck, who was preparing to present his counterarguments.


    He knew Beck would argue for public safety and the perceived necessity of such searches in the face of potential threats.


    But Marshall remained confident in the fundamental principle he was fighting for, the unwavering commitment to the Constitution''s protections.


    "We submit that the only way to preserve the integrity of our constitutional guarantees is to recognize and rectify this unlawful search and seizure. For the sake of every citizen''s rights and the future of our legal and moral compass, we ask this Court to rule in favor of Mr. Luciano and affirm that the principles of justice that were already ruled in his favor, thank you." Marshall capped it off, receiving only one form of applause which came from Ricky himself.


    However, this commentary did not go unnoticed and in fact, it inspired an unlikely onlooker.


    Jake, standing off to the side, watched the scene with wide eyes, rendered speechless by the entire spectacle.


    He took in everything Marshall stood for'' the unflinching confidence, the unwavering commitment to his words, and found himself unable to utter a single word of retribution against it.


    In the meantime, James M. Beck rose with a measured, confident demeanor as he addressed the Court.


    "May it please the Court." Beck began, his voice echoing through the solemn chamber.


    "While Mr. Marshall''s arguments emphasize constitutional guarantees; it is imperative to consider the broader context of public safety and the unique challenges posed by the presence of individuals with mutant abilities." Beck started off, his topic predicted by Marshall almost perfectly and yet, he continued, letting his words resonate.


    "The state''s actions in this case, though admittedly intrusive, were driven by legitimate concerns for public safety. In an era where mutants possess extraordinary and sometimes unpredictable abilities, law enforcement must be granted a degree of latitude to address potential threats. The search conducted was a necessary precaution, given the specific circumstances surrounding Mr. Luciano''s behavior and the context in which he was encountered." Beck furthered, hammering this point and trying to solidify it while all the justices looked on, except one.


    "Mr. Beck, while I understand your concern for public safety, I must ask; how do you reconcile the state''s actions with the constitutional protections that are afforded to every citizen, regardless of their status as mutants?" Justice Brandeis raised his hand slightly, signaling for Beck to pause as his tone was measured, yet firm.


    "The Fourth Amendment clearly protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures. You suggest that the state''s actions were necessary due to the unpredictability of mutant abilities, but doesn''t that open the door for the government to bypass constitutional rights based on perceived threats rather than actual evidence of wrongdoing?" Justice Brandeis paused, his voice growing slightly more pointed as his question wasn''t even finished.


    "If this is to be allowed, allow such exceptions to be made for the sake of ''public safety,'' where are we to draw the line? Are we to sacrifice the very rights that make us free, simply because some may fear what others are capable of?" Justice Brandeis asked, clearly wanting to know if only ''public safety'' was his counter to everything Marshall had spoken for.


    "Your Honor, I believe the issue is one of national security and the preservation of order. The Fourth Amendment, while essential, was written in a time that couldn''t have foreseen the challenges we face today. Mutants, as we know, possess powers that can pose a significant risk to public safety. It is not simply about the individual in question but about ensuring the protection of society as a whole." Beck countered, widening eyes while subtly suggesting changing the very constitution.


    "You have to understand, the state''s actions were driven by the NEED to address potential threats with mutants like Mr. Luciano, who displays behaviors that, while not perceived as criminal, can be perceived as risky. Law enforcement must be able to act proactively to prevent harm. The search, in this case, was a necessary precaution, and it was conducted in accordance with the circumstances presented." Beck shifted slightly, maintaining eye contact with the justice.


    "This isn''t about ignoring constitutional rights, Your Honor. This is about adapting those rights to meet the pressing demands of our time. The Fourth Amendment''s protections are vital, but we must also allow for certain exceptions in extreme situations, situations where the public''s safety is at stake. That''s the balance we must strike." Beck''s stance was firm, wiggling around all of the pitfalls put in front of him like the seasoned veteran he was and showed why he was chosen.


    "Now, the nature of mutant abilities introduces complexities not faced by the general population. These individuals can exhibit powers that may endanger public safety if not properly monitored. It is within this context that the state''s actions should be understood, not as an overreach, but as a prudent and measured response to a real and present danger." Beck continued onward, not even waiting for another Justice to chime in as he steamrolled through his words.


    But weirdly enough, none of the justices even showed an inkling to stop him and merely let it all play out.


    "The state did not act arbitrarily but based on the information and circumstances at hand. The patrol officers involved had reasons to suspect that Mr. Luciano might be in possession of dangerous materials or equipment related to his mutant abilities. Their actions, though they involved a search and seizure, were carried out with the intent to ensure public safety and prevent potential harm." Beck once again voiced ''public safety'', doing so to really drive that point home because he didn''t want to push away that fear, but foster it.


    He wanted his stance to resonate with that fear of the unknown, unlike Marshall who was trying to fend it off.


    Because the fear of the unknown, while presumptive, would be his greatest asset in this fight.


    "The Fourth Amendment, while providing vital protections, must also be interpreted in a manner that accommodates the realities of modern challenges. The Court has historically recognized that certain exceptions to the warrant requirement exist when public safety is at stake. The situation Mr. Luciano was involved in fits within this framework and is no different." Beck was tearing Marshall''s words down and stomping on them, appealing to all those cases of Civil liberties rejected and saying that this once wasn''t any different.


    "We acknowledge that the search was indeed invasive, but it was conducted under circumstances that justified its necessity. The state''s actions were aimed at mitigating risks that are unique to the presence of mutants. We ask this Court to consider these factors and uphold the actions taken by the authorities, as they were in line with a commitment to public safety and security." Beck''s words caught Marshall off guard but not only that, it was going further.


    It was recognizing that they were at fault but because of that unknown, it was justified and would set the most dangerous precedent if Ricky lost this appeal.


    "And that is why we also ask the courts to put aside Mr. Dewey''s current trial until he is found guilty." Beck didn''t stop there but continued, his next words even more outlandish than the last as Marshall couldn''t help but immediately rise.


    "Objection-"


    "The motion to include Mr. Dewey''s current trial is both inappropriate and irrelevant to the matter at hand. The focus of this case should remain solely on the legality of the search and seizure conducted on Mr. Luciano, not on unrelated or extraneous proceedings." Beck''s voice rose higher than Marshall who looked to the side.


    Bam


    "Order!" Chief Justice Hughes banged his gavel, pointing at both Marshall and Beck.


    "There will be none of that back and forth in this court, do you both understand?" Chief Justice Hughes squinted at them since this wasn''t a rural court, but the supreme court.


    "Yes, your honor." Both Marshall and Beck answered, nodding along before the chief justice regained himself.


    "Now, with that being said, we will put Mr. Dewey''s personal case to the side until a proper conviction is brought forth." Chief Justice Hughes'' words caused loud murmurs to suddenly violate the surroundings as Marshall gritted his teeth.


    "Hahahahahahaha!" Ricky''s laughter slowly consumed the area into a deafening silence as all eyes slowly fell towards him.


    "Is there something funny, Mr. Luciano?" Chief Justice Hughes asked Ricky, crossing his fingers alongside one another.


    "I''m sorry, I mean, it just caught me off guard about the impartialness of the supreme court, that''s all." Ricky leaned back in his chair, shrugging as Chief Justice Hughes squinted his eyes alongside a number of other justices.


    "Slick, don''t say-"


    "I got this," Ricky said with a confident wink at Marshall, raising a hand as Chief Justice Hughes subtly adjusted his tie.


    "I don''t know where you learned your manners boy, but this is the supreme court, a place-"


    "Where violent offenders are treated like law-abiding citizens, I get it, I understand." Ricky said, raising his hands and deliberately provoking them as Beck immediately stood up, clearly agitated.


    "Mr. Dewey is currently in the process of a trial, one that has yet to even find a shred of evidence against him in the-"


    "Mass murder of a group of young men." Ricky coughed from the side, audible gasps sounding around him as they gazed at Dewey who shrunk his neck.


    "ORDER, ORDER!"


    "NOW THAT IS ENOUGH OF YOUR RECKLESS TALKING OR I''LL HOLD YOU IN CONTEMPT!" Chief Justice Hughes roared at Ricky who held up his hands, zipping his lips but he already got what he wanted.


    The reporters couldn''t help but write about the unfolding drama, their pens flying as the scene unfolded.


    Chief Justice Hughes and Beck exchanged glances, both visibly displeased by Ricky''s provocation, the tension in the room palpable.


    "That will be all for the oral arguments. Rebuttals will conclude tomorrow before deliberations begin," Chief Justice Hughes declared, his gavel striking the podium with authority.


    The justices slowly rose from their seats, preparing to exit as Marshall turned to Ricky, his expression thoughtful as he gave him a subtle nod.


    "Slick?" Marshall''s head jerked side to side, his eyes scanning the room, until the blinding flashes of cameras overwhelmed him.


    He turned just in time to catch a glimpse of Ricky, already striding confidently toward the door, nearly disappearing into the sea of reporters.


    "SLICK!" Marshall''s heart seemed to leap out of his chest as he watched his client charge headfirst into an angry mob.


    The cameras flashed, the crowd shouted, and Ricky''s determined steps only seemed to fuel their fury.


    Marshall''s instincts screamed to intervene, but he was paralyzed by the chaos unfolding before him.


    "LISTEN UP!" Ricky''s voice boomed as he swung open the door, unleashing a tsunami of reporters, spectators, and the lingering attention of the justices, who had yet to retreat into their chambers.


    The room behind him and the chaos unfolding outside fell silent for a split second, the tension thick enough to cut with a knife, as all eyes turned toward him.


    "I''VE KEPT SILENT FOR A LONG TIME SINCE I''VE LONG RESPECTED AMERICA AND EVERYTHING IT HOLDS DEAR!" Ricky''s voice boomed, cutting through the room with such force that it seemed to drown out even their subconscious thoughts.


    His words echoed in their minds, filling the space with nothing but his own presence as the weight of his declaration settled over them.


    And yet, despite the thunderous start, it was revealed that Shadow Broker had yet to even begin, before he finally started to rip his first piece of paper.


    There was a glaring problem with how the justices were handling this trial, they were approaching Ricky like any other defendant, when in reality, he was nothing like those they''d dealt with before.


    He wasn''t some noble figure fighting for a righteous cause, no, Ricky thrived on pettiness.


    The justices had never encountered a man like him in their courtroom, a man who seemed determined to throw his own reputation into the fire, to draw attention not through the merit of his case but by his willingness to badmouth anyone in his path.


    His antics weren''t driven by principle or justice; they were fueled by something much more personal, much more volatile.


    Ricky Luciano was a force they had hoped to never see in their court, and yet, here he was, pushing the boundaries in ways they hadn''t anticipated.


    "THIS IS MY HOME AND NOT ONLY THAT, IT WAS A PLACE WHERE I ONCE DREAMED OF SERVING THIS GREAT COUNTRY OF OURS BY JOINING THE ARMY!" Ricky revealed, his words hanging in the air like a thunderclap, leaving the room in stunned silence.


    No one had expected this confession, and the impact was immediate as everyone was left baffled, trying to process the unexpected revelation.


    Because it was utter bullsh*t.


    It wasn''t just about winning for Ricky; no, he was determined to do more.


    Ricky wasn''t going to merely claim victory, he was going to make everyone else appear as the villain in this story.


    "IT IS MY DREAM, MY PASSION, TO SERVE THIS COUNTRY, YET ALL IT DOES IS HATE ME AND LOATH ME!" Ricky''s voice rang out, raw with frustration and fire, echoing off the walls of the courtroom.


    The words seemed to hang in the air as his eyes burned with intensity that took in the reactions of the people around him, knowing this moment would forever be etched in their minds with every tear of a piece of paper by Shadow Broker.


    "SO I NEED TO SAY SOMETHING, REVEAL THE TRUE REASON I LEFT THREE YEARS AGO!" Ricky''s voice rang out, leaving everyone on the edge of their metaphorical seats, eyes wide with surprise.


    This was a side of him they had never seen before; vulnerable, powerful, and full of conviction.


    His words weren''t just aimed at the Supreme Court or the public; they would catch even the president off guard.


    Ricky wasn''t just here to fight a case today, he had come here to make a statement, determined to make this day all about himself whether America, or even the world, wanted it or not.


    "I AM THE BLACK KNIGHT!"


    Author''s Note: This Chapter was a f*cking b*tch to write, even though I literally wrote it ahead of time. It still sucks looking back at it now. I also don''t know what I was saying with some lingo since it''s all lawyer jargon from when I was watching Suits at the time. So, if what I''m saying is actually dumb as f*ck and there are law people out there who wanna comment on stuff that literally makes no sense, go nuts cause Google was my literal best friend along with its side hoe, Wikipedia.

 Chapter 136 - 131: Cementing & Solidifying

    Chapter 136: Chapter 131: Cementing & Solidifying


    Later that night,


    "WHAT HAVE WE DONE!" Stefano threw a paper on top of a table that surrounded the other mob bosses.


    "SLICK AIN''T JUST A MUTANT OR A MAN OF GOD, HE''S THE F*CKING BLACK KNIGHT!" Stefano exclaimed, grabbing his head in disbelief as every mob boss in the room clenched their trembling hands, the weight of the revelation hitting them like a tidal wave.


    All except Joe, who leaned back with a knowing smile, seemingly unfazed by the chaos unraveling around him.


    It wasn''t that Joe wasn''t surprised, no, the revelation had completely caught him off guard.


    But while the others shuffled uneasily, their shock palpable, Joe simply stared at the ceiling in amazement, letting the moment wash over him with an almost serene curiosity.


    "What we''ve done is heresy. In fact, we''re the ones who went against God." Vinny''s head collapsed into his hands, the weight of the realization crushing him.


    He knew now, they couldn''t push Ricky out of New York, nor could they stop him from coming back.


    "Listen, I say we cut our losses and broker peace with Lucky-"


    "HA!" Carlo burst out laughing at the sheer irony, shaking his head at the thought.


    "The one right below Ricky, who probably wants to kill us all the most, has to be Lucky." Carlo sneered, adjusting his tie and slumping down in his seat.


    "Lucky will never accept, he is gonna drive us all out-" Carlo didn''t hold back, telling it how it was but it only made the bosses panic more.


    "THEN WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DO, STEW HERE WHILE HE GEARS UP TO KILL US ALL?" Tommy''s voice cracked with desperation as he yelled at Carlo, his fists clenched.


    He opened his mouth to retort, but the words faltered, catching in his throat and for once, even Carlo was at a loss.


    "Everyone needs to calm down-" Joe''s voice cut through the chaos, steady and measured, as his calculating gaze swept across the room.


    He saw it, the perfect opportunity to take control, to wrap everything in his hands and shape it to his liking.


    Fear, after all, was the most malleable force.


    It could mold nations, forge civilizations, and right now, Joe was poised to reshape this meeting into something that suited him.


    But even fear, for all its flexibility, could become overwhelming.


    When it stacked too high, too fast, it didn''t just bend, it crushed all those beneath it.


    And in this room, the weight of it was suffocating, pressing down on everyone as tension rose higher and higher before another layer pressed onto them.


    BAM


    "NITTI''S DEAD!"


    The door burst open, and one of Stefano''s underlings stumbled in, his face pale and drenched in sweat as his voice cracked with urgency, and the words hung in the air.


    The room froze as every boss went rigid, their expressions draining of color as though the very life had been sucked out of them.


    Fear rippled through the air, tightening its grip on each one of them.


    As the weight of uncertainty piled onto their subconscious, it began to stew, seeping into the corners of their minds and forcing each man to confront the stark reality before them.


    One by one, they gulped down the bitter truth, their faces betraying the storm of thoughts swirling within.


    For some, the strain was manageable, a heavy burden but not an insurmountable one.


    Yet for others, the pressure crept relentlessly, gnawing at their resolve and sometimes, all it took was one crack, a single fracture in their composure, for the entire formation to give out.


    "T-That''s it, I''m going back to my territory and fortifying it!" Stefano blurted, his anxious manner bursting forth as he rushed out of the room.


    The scene triggered a domino effect as one by one, the bosses and underbosses, men who were once feared and commanded respect, began to follow suit, their anxiety palpable as they hurried to secure their territories from the inevitable.


    Yet amidst the chaos and retreat, two remained, unmoved by the storm that had swept through the room.


    "So Profaci, I guess it is just us now so I was thinking-"


    "It''s over, Joe." Profaci slowly stood up, buttoning the end of his suit as Joe immediately launched to his feet.


    "You don''t know what you''re talking about." Joe''s voice was grave, his eyes unsightly while staring daggers at Profaci.


    "Look around. Look at what just happened, the mob bosses, men feared in every corner of this city, scrambling like cowards, afraid their own asses might hit them on the way out the door." Profaci''s voice dripped with disdain as he rubbed his pinky ring, the motion deliberate, his eyes briefly flicking toward the door as he let his hand drop and fixed his gaze on Joe, his expression sharp and calculating.


    "And all because of what Slick did to Nitti." Profaci raised his gaze, knowing that their hands were both stained from that attempted matter.


    "You don''t know that Slick-"


    "It''s over, Joe. I know he knows." Profaci shook his head, his tone heavy with finality.


    He watched Joe, who was still struggling, writhing like a fish out of water, holding on to hope until the bitter end.


    "Ha~" Joe laughed out, holding his face as the calm exterior layer he wore started to crumble.


    "IT AIN''T OVER PROFACI, IT''S JUST GETTING STARTED!" Joe roared behind the retreating Profaci who simply smiled.


    "YOU THINK YOU CAN WALK AWAY WITH THIS, AFTER WHAT YOU''VE DONE, AFTER WHAT WE''VE DONE!" Joe screamed, his voice thick with anger and desperation but Profaci didn''t flinch as he kept walking toward the door, his steps measured and calm.


    "PROFACI, DON''T TURN YOUR BACK TO ME, TO THE COMMISSION WE-" Joe tried to guilt him, trying everything at this point but Profaci simply closed the door behind him.


    Getting into the car waiting for him, he gazed out the window, his thoughts almost unreadable, lost in the depths of his mind, until he finally arrived home.


    Sitting in his chair, overlooking the fireplace, a slow, satisfied smile curled at the corners of his lips as he watched the embers dance in the hearth.


    The warmth of the fire reflected in his eyes, the flickering flames mirroring the quiet satisfaction he felt deep inside.


    Meanwhile in D.C,


    Night slowly crept in, enveloping the room in its quiet embrace and yet, instead of feeling Ricky''s arms wrapped securely around Raven, sharing his warmth through the long hours, she stirred awake to the chilling emptiness around her.


    "Ricky?" Raven''s voice was soft and groggy as she blinked herself awake, rubbing her eyes to clear the haze of sleep.


    Her gaze settled on him, seated at the end of the bed, shoulders hunched in deep contemplation.


    "Ricky~" Raven''s voice carried a soft, teasing lilt as she wrapped her arms around his back as her lips brushed against his ear in a gentle kiss before she rested her head on his shoulder, feeling that warmth pressed against her naked and supple body.


    "Huh? Oh, my bad, I was just thinking," Ricky said, snapping out of his contemplation as his eyes met Raven''s as she offered him a soft smile, her hand gently caressing his chin.


    "Do you want to talk about it?" Raven asked tentatively, her voice laced with care, not wanting to push him into confronting something he wasn''t ready to share.


    Sigh


    "It''s just-"


    SIGH


    Ricky ran a hand through his hair, his gaze fixed straight ahead as the weight of his thoughts was evident, though he remained silent.


    Raven, sensing his turmoil, simply hugged him a little tighter, offering her quiet support without pressing for more.


    "There''s this guy-no, he''s not a guy but someone I considered family." Ricky muttered, his voice low and strained as his eyes dropped to the floorboards beneath his feet, his thoughts seemingly heavier than the words he spoke.


    "But he crossed a line, my line." Ricky said, his voice carrying the weight of unspoken pain.


    "One you just can''t come back from, not in my eyes." Ricky sighed heavily, the kind of sigh that seemed to echo from his soul, knowing the inevitable truth: he would have to kill a man he once deeply respected.


    "What are you going to do?" Raven asked softly, her eyes fixed on him since she''d never seen Ricky this disheartened before, and it caught her off guard as much as it pained her.


    "Something I really don''t want to do, but something that I think is necessary." Ricky admitted, closing his eyes as he leaned back.


    Raven chuckled softly, moving just in time to catch him, wrapping her arms around him as he fell into her embrace.


    "I know that feeling all too well," Raven murmured, her gaze drifting off into the distance.


    The room grew silent as they sat in the warmth of each other''s embrace, both lost in their own thoughts and after a moment, she looked back down at Ricky, her expression soft but knowing.


    "Ricky, do you love me-"


    "Yeah." Ricky nonchalantly said, still looking off into the distance.


    "At least think about it," Raven laughed out, her chuckle tinged with disbelief. Ricky smiled, feeling the warmth of her hands on him.


    "I have, and I just do." Ricky replied, his words filled with so much and yet, he said it so easily.


    "This kind of thing isn''t something I can just magically control." Ricky looked up, his gaze meeting hers, the weight of his words lingering in the air.


    Despite everything he could and couldn''t change, one thing was undeniable, he had fallen for her.


    And that, he realized, was the one thing he didn''t want to control, which made him feel a tad conflicted.


    Recently, he had been a little too controlling with Raven, trying to manage every aspect of their relationship, but now, with this feeling creeping in, he was questioning himself.


    There was something about her, something that made him so enamored with her, that he couldn''t stop wanting her by his side.


    But in doing so, he realized he might have been suffocating her, and that thought left him uneasy.


    He didn''t want to lose what they had, but he also didn''t want to be the kind of man who controlled the very thing he loved.


    It was a new experience for him, walking the fine line between his feelings and sometimes, you couldn''t plan these things, no matter how hard you tried, you had to let them unfold on their own.


    "Well, aren''t you going to ask if I love you?" Raven teased, rubbing his cheek with a warm smile that stretched across her face without her even realizing it.


    "Nah, I already know." Ricky flashed a sly smile, looking up at the naked blue goddess as she gently massaged his head.


    "Oh, so you don''t need me to tell you?" Raven scoffed, a playful chuckle escaping her as she tried to maintain a pretend angry face while Ricky slowly stood up and turned to her.


    "Oh no, it''s all I ever want to hear." Ricky crawled closer, his eyes locked on hers as she gently pushed his smiling face away.


    "But then why should I say it?" Raven whispered, playing along as her lips brushed against his.


    "I already know you love me," Ricky said, his voice soft but teasing, their breaths dancing in


    "It''s just when you admit it, it drives me crazy." Ricky kissed her collarbone, and Raven turned her head, but he gently pulled her back, his eyes full of desire.


    "Tell me you love me. Ricky whispered in her ear, his hand slipping down her supple body as she bit her lip at his descending touch.


    "I-"


    "Raven."


    "I love you~"


    30 minutes later,


    Lying in Ricky''s embrace, Raven smiled as his heartbeat softly pulsed in her ear as she relished the warmth of his arms around her, his hands gently caressing her orange hair, each touch sending a wave of comfort through her.


    "So, are we going to talk about how you simply revealed to everyone that you are the Black Knight?" Raven hummed out, moving her chin and placing it on his chest as he laughed.


    "I know, right? How f*cking funny were the faces they made?" Ricky laughed, still amused as he replayed the scene in his mind, watching the confusion on their faces as they scrambled, completely unable to comprehend what he''d just said.


    Sigh


    "Pretty funny, if I''m being honest." Raven sighed, a small smile tugging at her lips as she traced her finger lazily on his chest, unable to suppress the amusement creeping up on her.


    "But I thought you were going to keep it a secret, continue to be the knight in shining armor," Raven teased, her eyes gleaming as she watched Ricky burst into laughter as he shrugged, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.


    "Well, if it''s a secret, then how am I supposed to brag that I''m the Black Knight?" Ricky said, his tone light and playful.


    "And the funny thing is, it''s not even my juiciest secret," Ricky murmured, leaning in to peck her on the lips as he pulled back slowly, letting the weight of his words hang in the air between them.


    "I guess we have our secrets," Raven said, her voice soft but full of meaning as Ricky couldn''t help himself, a grin spreading across his face as he leaned in closer.


    "Wait until I unravel all of yours," Ricky cheesily proclaimed, unable to help himself.


    They both laughed for a while, the sound filling the room with warmth, until a quiet and subtle silence settled between them.


    Ricky, lost in the moment, absentmindedly drew light circles on Raven''s shoulder, his fingers tracing gentle patterns.


    Then, as if pulled from the calm, Raven''s expression shifted as a thought bubbled up in her mind, something she couldn''t ignore and she glanced at Ricky, her voice soft but laced with curiosity.


    "Hey, tiger, if you win, what are you going to do with all that money?" Raven suddenly asked, a playful smile tugging at her lips.


    Ricky laughed, his hand gently twirling a strand of her blue hair as he looked at her with a mischievous glint in his eyes.


    "You know, I had some thoughts." Ricky replied, his voice dropping slightly, his eyes gleaming with something deeper.


    "I think I''m going to start a foundation just for mutants and their rights." Ricky''s words immediately made Raven''s expression shift instantly, her curiosity piqued.


    This was a topic Ricky had spent a long time pondering after numerous consultations with Chester and Alexander, seeking their opinions, he finally reached a conclusion: he wanted to establish a foundation for mutants.


    If Ricky did win, in all honesty, part of him wanted to pocket the money and splurge on a boatload of things, but he knew he had to think long-term.


    On the surface, the foundation would give him legitimacy, a sort of platform to rally mutants around his cause.


    It could earn him a level of respect in public circles, strengthening the image he was carefully crafting for himself in the very courtrooms, cultivating that symbol status.


    But most of all, it was a front, as that carefully cultivated image would simply be a vehicle to draw mutants to him.


    The cruelest thing about this plan was that he saw mutants, his own kind, as mere raw material for his family, the Luciano family, the very organization he wanted to reshape into something even greater than it already was.


    He wanted to cultivate loyalty, to plant seeds of his ideals in the most talented, and indoctrinate the most promising few of the mutants drawn to him.


    At first he might not get the luxury of picking and choosing, but the main part of it was the development.


    Just like the Italians who had grown up with that unshakable sense of belonging to the mob, Ricky wanted that same culture, that same deep-rooted family bond, but he envisioned it with mutants as well.


    Ricky wanted for mutants to slowly ingrain themselves in that culture, in that loyalty, and all the respect that came with being part of the Luciano family.


    Ricky understood how loyalty within the mafia has been used as a means of control, power, and stability.


    It''s not just about mutual respect or camaraderie; it''s about creating a binding force that ensures everyone in the family is indebted to one another.


    By making mutants feel like they truly belong within the Luciano family, he''s ensuring that they''re more than just pawns in the family''s power play.


    Ricky ensuring that they''re devoted; loyal assets, loyalty that''s not just about respect, but about the sense of purpose and belonging that comes with being part of a powerful, close-knit organization like the Luciano family.


    Ricky wanted them to feel like they truly belonged and only belonged to him, like they weren''t just outcasts with their abilities unless outside of his area of influence, but integral members that were valued for who they were and what they could contribute.


    To Ricky, from all of Lucky''s teachings, family wasn''t just a word; it was a concept steeped in history, tradition, and a sense of duty that tied everyone together.


    It was that connection, that unspoken bond of loyalty, that had allowed the mob to thrive for generations.


    He wanted mutants to experience that, he wanted it to be his mark on the Luciano family, and it will all start with that foundation.


    "All the money I get from this trial will be donated to build my mutant foundation, just can''t seem to come up with a name." Ricky rubbed his chin, clearly struggling, naming things was never his strong suit.


    Raven sat up slightly, leaning in to hear him better, her fingers brushing against his as she processed his words with an almost baffled expression.


    "R-Ricky, that''s millions-"


    "Whatever, I already have plenty of money anyway. This will go toward something good instead of just buying bigger houses and fancier cars." Ricky lied through a toothy smile, softening his tone as he looked at Raven, who was speechless.


    "I think you were right about mutants." Ricky continued, pulling Raven closer, his hands wrapping around her as she lay, stunned, against his chest.


    "I think it''s time I started stepping up. And this is how I want to do it." Ricky knew this would not only advance his goals but also earn him some extra points with Raven, which was exactly why he said it.


    "Ricky, I don''t know what to say, that''s amazing." Raven smiled, kissing his chest and nuzzling up to him, her heart swelling with pride for him.


    "It''s also why I wanted to ask you but, since you might have a lot of connections within the mutant community, if you would do me a favor?" Ricky asked, starting a playful banter with Raven.


    "Could you introduce me to someone who might want to lead the foundation?" Ricky suddenly asked as Raven froze in place.


    In all honesty, and from the tone of his voice, it should''ve been painfully obvious that Ricky wanted Raven to lead his foundation.


    It was almost too clear to miss.


    But for some reason, whether it was because she genuinely wanted to help Ricky to the best of her abilities, or because she thought so little of herself, she didn''t catch on.


    In her mind, despite her vast connections and long lifespan that gave her a deep understanding of mutant culture, she still believed there were others better suited for the role, even though, in reality, she was perfect for it.


    "I-What?" Raven was immediately taken off guard, her head sitting up and looking at Ricky who nodded.


    "I''m new to the community and I don''t really have the connections, so I was wondering if you could help me out?" Ricky stood up as well, essentially offering her the position, but the misunderstanding made Raven duck her head, unsure of how to respond.


    "Why, isn''t this what you wanted?" Ricky asked, taking her hand as she looked to the side and laughed awkwardly.


    "No, I-I''ll do just that." Raven replied, her heart tinged with a little pain as she thought so lowly of herself that she completely missed that he was giving it to her, on a silver platter.


    But Raven''s own inferiority complex seemed to get in the way as it always did, making her feel worthless and undeserving to even think she had the qualities to achieve it.


    "In fact, I''ll do it right now." Raven laughed nervously again, standing up and walking to the side, with Ricky following closely behind.


    "Raven are you upset-" Ricky, thinking he did something wrong, asked only for Raven to wipe her eyes.


    "No, but I can tell how important this is to you and I want to do my best to help." Rave forced a smile, walking over to the door and shutting it in Ricky''s face before he could even reply.


    Bam


    "Wait the f*ck just happened?" Ricky, who was literally holding a naked Raven in his arms for like five seconds, looked down at his hands squeezing literally nothing.


    "Woman, man." Ricky plopped onto the bed with a haggard sigh, because sometimes women were the most beautiful creatures, and other times, the most confusing.


    Ring


    Ring


    Suddenly, the phone nearby started to ring, and Ricky reached over, letting the call come through without answering right away.


    "Hello, is this Ricky, Ricky Luciano?" A familiar tone spoke through the phone as Ricky rubbed his head, trying to remember who it was.


    "Yeah, what do you want?" Ricky, clearly in a sour mood, pinched the bridge of his nose.


    "It''s Frances, the women whose car you-"


    "Oh sh*t, Frances, yeah, I remember now." Ricky''s head jerked up, his smile curling as he spoke into the phone as everyone else faded into the background.


    "I wanted to call and say that it isn''t any trouble and-"


    "Nonsense, I put your car in that state and I want to do right by you-"


    "N-No, it''s really fine and-"


    "Then if you won''t let me fix it, at least let me take you out to dinner, and then you can never see me again." Ricky didn''t want this fish to slip off the hook, so he reeled it in slowly.


    "....." Frances was silent on the other line, biting her nail before closing her eyes, weighing her options.


    "Alright, thank you."


    "Great, send over your information and I''ll come pick you up," Ricky said as Frances gave him her address before hanging up the phone.


    "Just tell him off, Frances. He''s the one who put Tommy in this mess." Frances took a deep breath while telling herself, looking to the side at a picture of not only herself but Dewey as well.


    Later that night,


    Car lights shone on the skinny house as Ricky got out, walking up with a bunch of groceries in hand, a smile spreading across his face while looking towards not the house, but the mission from before.


    [Mission Received: Frances Hutt Dewey]


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: C+


    Frances, the wife of Thomas Dewey, has long been the epitome of a devoted and loyal partner. As a stay-at-home wife, she has faithfully supported her husband''s career and ambitions, standing by him through every challenge. Yet, the past few years have taken their toll on her. Dewey, consumed by his work and relentless in his pursuit to reclaim the success he once had, has distanced himself from Frances emotionally. Their home, once filled with shared conversations and mutual support, has become a place of isolation for her. In reality, Frances has been left to bear the weight of her loneliness in silence. She''s given up her own desires, her own needs, for the sake of Dewey''s ambitions. And as his work continues to pull him further away, Frances finds herself yearning for the attention, companionship, and love that has long been absent from her life.


    Objective: Help Frances regain her lost wants and fulfill her unmet needs


    Reward: 50,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once:


    Rewards: 100 Gacha or Frances Skill''s


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Have Frances Open herself up to you(Incomplete)


    Reward: Rare Item Coupon


    Impregnate Frances In Dewey''s Home(Incomplete)


    Reward: Epic Skill Coupon


    Impregnate Frances In Dewey''s office(Incomplete)


    Reward: Epic Item Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    Knock


    Knock


    The door opened, revealing Frances, who was about to walk out, only to freeze as she saw Ricky take a step inside.


    "Slight change of plans," Ricky said, his words making Frances pale.


    "Literally no restaurant will serve me while the trial is going on, so I''ll just cook you dinner," Ricky shamelessly said as though it wasn''t entirely false, he did want an excuse to be alone and close to her, but it wasn''t false since no restaurant would dare serve him.


    Upon walking in, France''s gaze shifted to the numerous pictures of herself and Dewey together as she followed him inside, the door slowly closing shut behind them.


    "R-Ricky, w-wait-"


    "I know it''s a little forward, but I do feel really bad for hitting you, and I make a killer sauce on spaghetti and meatballs, so let me at least do this for you," Ricky said smoothly. His words made Frances try to retort, but as she attempted to feel uncomfortable, she instead found herself at peace, walking beside him.


    Ricky''s mere presence made her loosen up her rigid form, almost like it was supposed to be this way.


    "Nice kitchen," Ricky complimented, setting the groceries down as he glanced at Frances, who was nervously standing in place, unsure of what to do next.


    Sigh


    "Listen, I know the media is bashing me with a hammer right now, but I''m really not a crazy guy who just goes around doing weird sh*t," Ricky laughed lightly, playing dumb. He knew Frances had probably already seen the papers and knew exactly who he was, but he didn''t want her to know that he knew she was Dewey''s wife.


    Ricky relished in the allure of being the last one to find out, wanting it to feel as if she were in the wrong for something he''d known from the start.


    Wanting her to feel obligated, as if she owed him a moment of her time, so he could worm his way under her skin, into her thoughts, and then finally unload a bucket of his cum inside her.


    "If you''re really scared of me, I''ll leave, but I truly want to show how sorry I am for inconveniencing you like that and make up for the damage." Ricky said genuinely, showing his sincerity and lacing his words without a proper meaning while placing his hand on his heart.


    Frances bit down on her lip, wanting to say no, but her mother had always told her that you had to let people offer their apologies so that you could give them your forgiveness.


    At heart Frances was a good woman, a good wife, a good hostess, and it was a shame that it would be the reason she would fall into his clutches.


    "A-Alright, but only dinner." Frances said, walking over to the counter as Ricky laughed, his eyes turning into crescent moons as a grin spread across his face.


    "Only dinner." Ricky nodded to her, a playful smile tugging at his lips as he slowly began taking out the ingredients, all while she watched closely, before reaching for a bottle of red wine.


    "Want a glass?" Ricky asked, already pouring one for himself. Frances smiled and nodded, still feeling incredibly awkward.


    "So, what does a fine girl like yourself do for a living?" Ricky asked, brushing aside the awkwardness as he handed her a glass of red wine before taking a sip of his own.


    "I-I am a stay-at-home wife," Frances replied, nodding at Ricky cordially as she took a light sip of her wine. Ricky began chopping vegetables, not missing a beat.


    "How about that, so, who''s the lucky man?" Ricky pressed, his tone teasing as Frances immediately let out an awkward laugh, caught off guard.


    "He''s a lawyer, but he''s away on business," Frances explained, letting out a nervous laugh as she sheepishly took another sip of her wine while not specifically telling him who he was.


    "Is he any good? Maybe I could use his help," Ricky laughed heartily, his tone joking as he poured the tomato sauce into the pot.


    "Hahahahaha, maybe." Frances replied, her nervousness seeping into her laughter as she ducked her head, glancing down while Ricky tapped the tomato sauce can against the pot.


    "Listen, Frances, if I''m making you uncomfortable, I can leave and do something else to make it up to you." Ricky paused, his actions coming to a halt as he turned to face her, his expression softening.


    Looking at Frances, he just loved to see that tinge of guilt flashing on her face as if she was the bad guy in this scenario, trying to turn away his gestures to make things right as that guilt made Frances, who was silently sipping from her glass, her eyes avoiding his.


    Frances opened her mouth to respond but quickly shut it, her head lowering in discomfort.


    The moment felt unbearably awkward, but it wasn''t that she hated Ricky, no, not exactly.


    But being near him made her uneasy, especially after everything Dewey had said about him.


    She wasn''t in the dark about who Ricky was since Dewey never stopped warning her, constantly painting him as a looming threat, dangerous and unpredictable.


    It was then that, if anyone really knew of Dewey''s deterioration, it was Frances, since she had witnessed her husband''s painful transformation, as he slowly shed the skin of the man she had once fallen in love with into that obsessive man.


    While Ricky had scarcely thought of Dewey during his three-year absence, Dewey, on the other hand, couldn''t get Ricky out of his mind as he seemed like a permanent resident.


    Night after night, Dewey obsessed over how to exact his revenge, fixating on reclaiming the credibility he lost at the border while Frances stood by the side, watching it all.


    So when Ricky, the man her husband loathed and the reason he was in prison, torn from her life stood before her, Frances couldn''t shake her nerves.


    The thought of Ricky discovering who she was, or worse, already knowing she was Dewey''s wife, tightened a knot of anxiety in her chest.


    This entire interaction unsettled her to the core as their first meeting left such a sour taste that any attempt to display an emotion beyond fear felt impossible.


    "Frances," Ricky said thoughtfully, his tone soft as he leaned forward, locking eyes with her.


    "Just tell me what''s wrong-"


    "Thomas Dewey is my husband!" Frances shouted, squeezing her eyes shut as she braced herself for the outburst she was certain would follow as the silence that greeted her, however, was almost worse.


    She expected Ricky to shout, maybe even hit her since she''d heard stories of his violent tendencies but instead, as her eyes fluttered open, she saw the oddest expression on his face.


    "Well, this is awkward," Ricky said with a sheepish laugh, leaning back and rubbing the back of his neck.


    "To think I''m in the house of the man who tried to lock me up. This has to be even weirder for you too." Ricky tone was unsettlingly casual, as if he hadn''t orchestrated every moment leading up to this.


    Ricky wore an understanding expression, pretending he wasn''t the one who had set all of this into motion.


    But years ago, Ricky had told Dewey he would strip him of everything before finally killing him and that wasn''t an empty threat.


    Ricky had taken everything from Dewey, hell, he even took his identity, and all that he had left was one thing, Frances.


    Frances was the cherry on top, the very thing that would solidify his revenge against Dewey and utterly crush him.


    "I-I''m sorry, I know you came here to make things right-"


    "No, I get it. This must be why you didn''t want anything from me," Ricky interrupted gently, raising a hand in understanding.


    Ricky tried to offer a sympathetic smile as Frances nervously rubbed her shoulder, forcing a silence that was thickening by the second, only broken by the soft bubbling of the tomato sauce in the pot.


    Ricky let the awkwardness linger, intentionally dragging out the tension before he would strike.


    "Listen, Frances." Ricky began, his voice silken and so soothing that it made her face his green, charming eyes.


    "For what it''s worth, I have nothing against you." Ricky gestured toward her as he slowly walked to the side.


    "But I can tell my presence here might not be welcome, so I''ll just take my leave." Ricky backed away, his steady eye contact and the tone of his words disarmed Frances, leaving her unexpectedly at ease.


    Which is why she suddenly blurted out that one word that cemented this evening.


    "W-Wait."


    Frances thought she''d feel relieved at his departure, but instead, guilt crept in.


    Ricky didn''t seem to fit this terrifying image that Dewey had always painted as he didn''t come across as the threat she had been warned about, and she couldn''t help but question her assumptions.


    "I didn''t mean to act this way." Frances stammered, her voice softer while gazing down at the floor.


    "It''s just, with everything going on, I thought you''d be angry, or worse-"


    "I''m not that monster they depict me as in the papers," Ricky said with a laugh, spreading his arms before pointing to himself.


    "I''m just a regular guy who can protect himself from a speeding bullet," Ricky described himself, then tilted his head, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.


    "Well, I guess I''m not a regular guy since I can stop a bullet, so maybe... semi-regular guy?" Ricky asked, a playful grin on his face as Frances couldn''t help but let out a laugh.


    "Semi-regular guy, so, a mutant?" Frances repeated, never having heard the term before as she added her own twist with a playful joke, only to flinch at her haphazard approach.


    Cough


    "I-I didn''t mean-"


    "Ha!" Ricky cut her off with an exaggerated laugh, intentionally lightening the mood, making sure the awkward tension didn''t settle between them.


    Frances couldn''t help but join in, that rigidness loosening up from her shoulders as the atmosphere shifted to something more playful.


    "So, can I still make you dinner?" Ricky asked, taking a step toward the kitchen, gesturing to the meal already laid out as Frances hesitated for a moment, looking at him, her thoughts racing.


    ''Why not, I mean, what''s the worst that could happen?''


    "I mean, it''s already made-.....it''d be a shame to waste it." Frances said, forcing a small but nervous smile as she sipped her wine.


    "Perfect." Ricky grinned, his eyes turning into crescent moons while turning back toward the stove.


    "Spaghetti and meatballs it is."


    Ricky moved easily around the kitchen, his motions smooth and practiced, as if he''d done this a hundred times before.


    The rich aroma of simmering tomato sauce filled the room, blending with the faint scent of garlic as the meatballs sizzled.


    Frances watched him, still unsure, but the wine helped loosen her nerves and maybe this wasn''t as bad as she''d imagined.


    "So tell me about yourself, who is the famous Frances." Ricky side-eyed her, preparing the meal as she refilled the glass at how weird the situation was for her.


    "Well I''m a stay at home-"


    "No, like, who are you?" Ricky raised an eyebrow and turned around to see Frances showing a confused expression.


    "I''m sorry, but what do you mean Mr. Luciano-"


    "Mr. Luciano is my father, just call me Ricky." Ricky waved her away, wanting to be as informal as possible.


    "I still don''t understand the question, Ricky." Frances gestured to Ricky who rubbed his forehead while trying to find the words.


    "It''s not like, what you do, exactly, but more about what you ''want'' to do, or like, what you ''enjoy'', I guess?" Ricky stumbled over his words, clearly struggling to express himself as he wasn''t sure how to ask the question that was on his mind.


    In truth, Ricky wanted to know more about who Frances was beyond being a stay-at-home wife to bring her out of her shell, to get her talking.


    "Oh, well, that''s-I-" Frances started to respond, but Ricky''s question made her pause as she understood what he was asking, yet the words just wouldn''t come.


    "I-" Frances let out a small laugh, feeling strangely flustered and embarrassed by her inability to answer.


    Slowly, her eyes drifted down to her glass of wine as the deep red liquid reflected her face, and she noticed the bewildered smile creeping onto her lips.


    The only thing that came to mind was ''a stay-at-home wife'' and it was because of that answer that it was so unsettling to realize that her entire identity had been reduced to that, leaving her with no easy response to Ricky''s seemingly simple question.


    "Do you have any hobbies, things you like?" Ricky refused to let this opportunity go, seeing how vulnerable she was at this moment and continued to press.


    "Of course, I do many things," Frances blurted out, quickly downing the rest of her wine.


    Then, Frances tried to recall the things she once enjoyed, but the truth began to settle in as she realized most of what filled her days now were simple tasks.


    Dewey had always been busy with work, and over the past five years, she''d done everything she could to distract herself from the growing sense of neglect.


    Cleaning, cooking, attending neighborhood meetings, it all kept her occupied, but none of it truly made her happy.


    It was just a way to pass the time, a way to fill the void, but nothing she could honestly say she loved doing.


    It made her eyes lower, the weight of the realization pressing onto her chest as the silence lingered between them.


    In this time of silence, Ricky''s eyes suddenly bolstered as he used the favorability meter to check Frances.


    Favorability: 49 (Feel comfortable around you but not to the point of giving in)


    ''I guess I should close the distance, sow the seeds of hostility, and then get into her pants,'' Ricky thought, refilling their glasses while she was caught up in her existential crisis.


    "Alright, let''s get down to the bones of it, what makes you happy, Frances?" Ricky tapped the table, the sound jarring Frances, pulling her attention toward him as she caught the look of his smile.


    The sauce needed to simmer, and at that time, Ricky was going to use his skills to their fullest. He walked over and took a seat on the stool next to her.


    Immediately, Frances felt a strange comfort when Ricky sat next to her in such an unnerving way, as if that anxious feeling dissipated the moment he entered a certain radius.


    Ricky knew that his mere presence would gradually make her feel more comfortable.


    Once she was sufficiently at ease, even his scent would draw illicit sparks and now, he just needed to wait for the right moment.


    "I liked-like, I like to paint." Frances almost said it in the past tense, referring as if she didn''t anymore but those memories of her painting when she was younger filled her with a sense of warmth and happiness she had almost forgotten.


    "You do?" Ricky asked, leaning in and resting his head on his hand.


    "Do you do portraits or free range?" Ricky added, knowing a little about painting and Frances chuckled at his attempt to sound knowledgeable.


    "I''ve only ever painted bowls of fruit, it''s stupid," Frances murmured, looking down at her work, convinced she wasn''t good enough as Ricky shook his head, a soft smile on his lips as he disagreed silently.


    "Well, now I have to see." Ricky stood up, catching Frances off guard as she followed him to her feet.


    "Are these it?" Ricky asked, walking over to the side and pointing at a painting as Frances let out a small laugh, clearly a little embarrassed.


    "N-No, Dewey never liked them, and I decided to put them in the attic-Ricky!" Frances stammered, speaking about herself in a demeaning way.


    But before she could finish, Ricky started walking upstairs, and she called out after him, a mix of surprise and hesitation in her voice.


    ''Jackpot.''


    "Where are you going!" Frances embarrassingly chased after Ricky who started laughing while climbing her stairs.


    "To see the paintings you''re trying to hide from the world!" Ricky laughed excitedly, and Frances hurriedly chased after him.


    As she reached the top of the stairs, Ricky pulled down the attic ladder, the creaky sound of it echoing as it slowly descended.


    "Ricky!" Frances exclaimed, her face flushing a deep red as she reached out to grab him, desperate to pull him back.


    But he slipped through her fingers, disappearing into the attic before she could stop him.


    In that moment, panic washed over her as the thought of him seeing those paintings filled her with dread.


    They weren''t just canvases to her; they represented her passion, her escape from the mundane routine of her life.


    The vibrant colors, the swirling forms, they brought her joy that she rarely felt elsewhere.


    But that joy was fragile, easily shattered by the fear of judgment and whenever someone spoke down about her art or dismissed it as trivial, it cut deep, leaving her feeling exposed and vulnerable.


    Each brushstroke was a piece of her heart laid bare, and the thought of Ricky mocking or belittling them made her stomach churn.


    Peeking her head up into the attic slowly, the weight of her emotions bore down on her as Frances felt a swell of despair rising in her chest, threatening to spill over.


    Hurriedly climbing the stairs, Frances'' scared eyes widened as she saw Ricky already holding her paintings, though he was frozen in place.


    The silence between them was palpable, heavy with tension, as she couldn''t even muster the strength to fully step into the attic.


    "Did you really paint this?" Ricky asked, pretending to be slightly breathless as Frances anxiously looked away, unable to meet his gaze.


    "I-well-you see, it was a first draft and-"


    "They''re beautiful, almost breathtaking," Ricky spoke, his voice sincere as he traced his fingers along the canvas, emphasizing the motion with Frances'' head jerking up, her eyes wide with surprise.


    "What?"


    "I mean, the detail and the shading are amazing. Would you mind if I bought this off of you?" Ricky looked up with a smile, reaching into his coat all while Frances stood there, speechless.


    "I only have about a thousand on me, but I can get more." Ricky gestured the cash towards her, his gaze seemingly captivated by the painting and slowly, a smile spread across Frances'' face.


    Frances couldn''t believe it herself, but she couldn''t hide the smile even if she wanted to as she shook her head, a mix of disbelief and joy crossing her face.


    "N-No, you can just have it-"


    "Nonsense, here." Ricky didn''t let her finish, walking up to her and placing the money in her hands before she could protest.


    "Ricky, this is way too much for a novice like me-"


    "Frances, it honestly feels like I''m ripping you off." Ricky flattered her, placing his hand over his heart as he spoke with exaggerated sincerity as Frances stood on the ladder, still unsure how to react to the moment.


    "Please take it, I literally won''t let you just give it to me." Ricky patted her hand gently, his smile unwavering as Frances simply stared at the money, unsure of what to do.


    Drip


    A tear dropped onto the wad of money, and in that moment, Frances realized she had started crying.


    Ricky set the painting down carefully, his attention shifting to her as the silent tension between them thickened.


    "Frances?" Ricky asked, his voice soft, as he watched the tears consume her.


    What started as a single droplet quickly turned into a full storm of emotion, her sobs growing louder.


    Sniff


    "Hic*


    Tears streamed down Frances''s cheeks as Ricky pulled her off the ladder, drawing her close as she buried her face in his shoulder, sobbing uncontrollably.


    It wasn''t just the paintings, it was about everything.


    Frances had fought so hard to be strong, to maintain a solid front ever since Dewey was convicted.


    She felt she had to be a good wife, never complaining, even as the weight of her emotions became unbearable.


    But it was because of this that years of pent-up feelings erupted within her at that moment, finally breaking free under the pressure of something good, something genuine, happening for a change in her somewhat unordinary life.


    The past months had been hell for her.


    At first it wasn''t all too bad, everyone looked at Ricky instead of her with an intense scrutiny, holding him responsible for what was happening.


    But after his loss, along with the accusations of murder that followed, it felt as if the knives that had been aimed at Ricky were now pointed at her.


    Fear enveloped her; she couldn''t even leave her house without feeling nauseous most of the time.


    The first time she had ventured out, she had collided with Ricky, and that encounter had sent her spiraling back into a state of terror.


    But now, here was Ricky, the very person her husband was determined to persecute and all that hate, was the only one showing genuine care for something she loved.


    That simple act broke her further.


    She cried even harder, the realization crashing over her that the only person willing to offer her comfort was someone she had only met a few days ago.


    The loneliness she had tried to ignore was now an open wound, and it hurt more than she had ever expected.


    "It''s okay, it''s okay~" Ricky held her close, seeing her at her lowest point as she sniffled on his shoulder.


    "I-I''m sorry." Frances looked up, her eyes filled with tears as she gazed into his green eyes, which seemed to charm her to her very core.


    "Don''t be sorry." Ricky smiled warmly, taking her into his embrace and resting his hand on her cheek.


    Now, in his embrace, she felt safer than ever as her senses were overwhelmed by his scent, slowly stirring a passion that bloomed in the depths of their eyes.


    It was wrong; she was married, and she was supposed to love her husband until death did them part but despite that, she couldn''t help but slowly close her eyes as Ricky began to lean in.


    Their lips touched, and Frances knew how wrong it was to be held not just by another man, but by the one responsible for her husband''s downfall.


    But Frances didn''t want to be alone; she couldn''t bear the thought of leaving the comfort that surrounded her.


    Every facet of Ricky pulled her deeper into the moment, making it harder to resist, until Ricky''s hands gently glided along her body and whispered four words that forever sealed her fate under his touch.


    ''Wet to the touch.''

 Chapter 137: Chapter 132: Revenge Is The Sweetest Taste (R18)

    Chapter 137: Chapter 132: Revenge Is The Sweetest Taste (R18)


    ?


    "Ha~" France let out a moan, her being flushed in pleasure as Ricky slowly broke the kiss, his lips slowly trickling down to her neck as her body quivered within his hold.


    Frances'' teeth clenched as Ricky''s hands amplified her pleasure, his touch deliberate and teasing before slowly, his fingers glided along her folds, drawing a shiver from deep within her.


    "Ricky we-" Frances''s words faltered as a shiver ran through her, her knees buckling beneath her as she fell forward into his waiting embrace, his arms steadying her as a small, knowing smile curved his lips.


    However Frances couldn''t finish her sentence as his mouth crashed into hers, an aggressive kiss that silenced her words.


    His tongue tangled with hers, overwhelming her senses, while his fingers began to dance inside her being, igniting a fire within her.


    Pleasure surged through her, radiating across her body in waves that rippled along her skin, leaving a trail of goosebumps in its wake.


    Her folds glistened with her desire, soaking by the second under each and every subtle caress that coaxed forth waves of bliss that threatened to consume her entirely.


    Frances tried to resist the mind-numbing sensation at first, squirming under his hold as the weight of how wrong it was gnawed at her resolve.


    "I-It''s wrong~" Frances stammered, her voice trembling as she broke their kiss.


    Her hands clutched his shirt tightly, and she looked up at him with tear-filled eyes, a mix of desperation and longing written across her face, seemingly unable to completely decide which side to lean towards.


    However, there was no hesitation in Ricky''s next move and instead, he licked his lips, her saliva glistening on his tongue as he savored the lingering sweetness of her taste.


    "H-Ha~" Frances moaned, her voice trembling as her body buckled.


    Ricky didn''t say anything but responded by slipping another finger into her folds, pushing it upward with deliberate pressure before slowly stroking it back down, each movement drawing another shiver from her.


    It didn''t matter if it was wrong; all that mattered was the sweet taste he had been chasing for so long and as he licked his lips, savoring the lingering flavor, everything else faded into irrelevance.


    "I made a vow, a commitment-a-ah~" Frances tried to tell Ricky, her voice faltering under the weight of his touch.


    But if she were honest, as honest as her body was betraying her to be, she would know she was only trying to convince herself.


    At heart, Frances wanted to be a good person; someone loyal, steadfast, and true, like anyone striving to do what was right.


    But circumstances, ones that pressed deeply into her heart and reverberated through her very being, challenged everything she thought she stood for and the very foundation she thought she represented, was crumbling under Ricky''s mere touch.


    In our hearts, we tell ourselves we are noble, yet even the most primal instincts harbor desires.


    When those desires are suppressed, they build into a force that demands release, leading to choices, choices that had brought Frances to this moment, to this path.


    "O-Oh-" Frances muttered, arching her head back as she felt those desires flush through her, warmth spreading through her folds.


    Drip


    Drip


    Those sweet desires didn''t merely stop at her folds or Ricky''s fingers that stimulated them so gently, but trickled down her thighs, forming a stream of pleasure that pooled and dripped onto the floorboards of the attic below them.


    It was wrong, her mind screamed at her, but her body was starting to show her just how right it felt.


    Slowly, Frances'' focus drifted towards Ricky''s fingers as they slipped in and out of her, stroking her walls with such care and warmth that the pleasure it brought overwhelmed her, leaving her with no choice but to give in.


    Her subconscious voice began to numb as her body slowly surrendered to the intensity, each deliberate movement he made pushing her pleasure higher, building with every passing second.


    "Come here~" Ricky whispered, his fingers gently gripping her face, pulling her in as her confused expression melted away as he took her into another kiss.


    That struggle, that resistance, slowly unraveled as Frances, instead of pushing away, began to lean into him, finally welcoming the heat of his tongue.


    Her head tilted back as her tongue swirled around his, a wave of liberation washing over her.


    It was then that Ricky finally made his move, slowly pulling down her sundress as his hand cupped her breast with a gentle possessiveness.


    Pulling her down, Ricky guided Frances into the deepest realm of pleasure, the sensation overwhelming her senses until she found herself sitting in his lap, her body instinctively leaning backwards into his chest.


    Frances had her legs spread, one hand gripping his shoulder tightly as muffled moans escaped her lips.


    Feeling his other hand fondle her breast, teasing her nipple before gently clasping it once more, all the while his tongue explored her mouth with a heat that sent shivers racing through her body.


    Gasp


    Suddenly, a gasp escaped her as Ricky''s fingers found one of her most sensitive spots, sending a jolt of electricity through her body.


    "Ah~" Frances arched her back while breaking the kiss, the curve of her neck resting against his shoulder as pleasure surged within her.


    Ricky could feel the constant twitching of her walls beneath his touch, knowing she was close and amplifying them to another level while stroking her so precisely.


    That pent-up feeling, one she hadn''t fully acknowledged in so long, was slowly being unraveled by another man''s touch.


    Frances felt Ricky slither closer, his touch seeping into her every nerve, grasping the most delicate parts of her body and making them scream with unrestrained delight.


    Ricky''s eyes gleamed with intensity before his fingers abruptly pressed deeply into a sensitive spot, causing Frances'' eyes to widen in surprise.


    "Ah~!" Frances gasped, her head slamming back into his chest while her body erupted out from a small peak of pleasure.


    Her skin flushed with warmth, and the strain made her clench her teeth as the desire bundled up within her was released, washed over and out of her, soaking her white panties in a stain of


    her own lust.


    Huff


    Huff


    Huff


    Frances let out small, shaky breaths, her eyes heavy and hazy as she slumped in Ricky''s grasp, her panties slowly torn away without a single ounce of notice.


    Unlike Frances, Ricky wasn''t finished; he continued to kiss her neck, leaving hickeys across her skin and collarbone, until the growing pressure of his member caught Frances'' attention.


    In the single blink of her eyes, Frances found herself no longer gazing at the attic walls, but instead looking up at Ricky''s smiling face.


    Her dazed, flushed expression shifted between his face before trailing down to the sight of her drooling folds wedged between his cock.


    Slobbering her sweet juices onto his shaft, it twitched at those two molds of her most


    beautiful region pressed onto the veined length of his cock.


    Frances slowly gathered the clarity to realize what was about to happen, only to falter at the


    very moment of confrontation


    Instead of voicing any protest, Frances was swept up in the moment, her gaze fixed on the


    monstrous form beneath her.


    Her eyes could only watch as Ricky slowly lifted her, feeling herself rise to an incredible


    height until the tip of him rested at her entrance.


    Gulp


    Frances gulped, her breath shaky with anticipation of what was about to happen and just as words of worry began to surface, her body yielded to gravity.


    "H-Ha~" Frances moaned sharply, feeling him slowly start to slide himself into her being.


    Her insides were immediately pushed apart only to stretch further, her eyes welling with tears as her body was forced to mold under him, around him, in a certain way that wasn''t designed to accommodate Ricky size in the first place without needing to be rearranged.


    Her guts convulsed, feeling the tearing sensation ripple through her, reshaping in his image all the while his tip slithered deeper into her being.


    Frances felt completely full and yet, she continued to slide further down his length, her folds slick with juices that contorted to envelop every inch of him.


    "Ah~" Frances moaned louder, unable to find any words to express herself, until Ricky''s


    hands slowly moved to her waist.


    Clap


    With a single motion, the sound of Frances''s ass smacking against Ricky''s thighs echoed as the rest of his length was thrust deep inside her all at once.


    Frances''s entire body seemed to freeze, stiff and numb to everything around her, until the


    intensity of it all hit her consciousness all at once.


    GASP


    "AH!" Frances gasped, her eyes wide as breath rushed back into her lungs, overwhelmed by the sheer sensation of being filled to the brim and then some.


    Frances arched her back, her head jerking back as tears pricked the corner of her eyes, overwhelmed by the rush of pain-induced pleasure that consumed her, inside and out. Impaled on him, she felt every inch reach deep within her, the sensation so intense that her belly formed a slight protrusion, signaling his tip pressing against it. Frances was drowning, her body crumbling beneath Ricky as that overwhelming rush flooded what little remained of her mind and then, moving his hands from the firm grip around her waist, Ricky wrapped his arms around her body and pulled her down further. "You''re incredible, Frances~" Ricky murmured sensually, kissing her ear softly. Sitting up, Ricky enveloped every inch of her, his presence consuming her entirely, leaving no


    part of her untouched.


    Ricky had completely taken control, his movements wrapping around her as she sat there, staring blankly at the ceiling, like some doll meant to be played with.


    Frances felt as though all she could do was sit atop him, her body shivering with each subtle


    twitch as she adjusted to the way her walls stretched to accommodate his size but that pain she felt was slowly seeping away.


    Her body seemed to transform, reshaping to fit him, and, for some reason, she began to revel


    in the heat of the moment.


    It felt futile to resist, completely powerless against what was to come as she unknowingly accepted her fate, sinking deeper into him as she rested her head on his shoulder, her hands instinctively wrapping around his neck.


    Only then did Ricky lift her slightly, moving his hands down her back and grabbing both ass


    cheeks with a firm grip.


    Pulling her body upward, he allowed himself to slip free from her, slick with her essence.


    Ricky gazed at her, his tongue tracing along her skin, savoring the sweet taste of Frances and


    everything she represented.


    CLAP


    "H-Ha~" Frances moaned, feeling her insides swell as his meaty cock filled her again, a slight pressure piercing against her stomach making her gasp.


    "So fucking sweet-" Ricky whispered softly in her ear, watching her shiver with every syllable


    as her body was putty in his hands, pliable and ready to be shaped into whatever pleasure he


    desired.


    At first, Ricky controlled her movements, guiding Frances up and down his cock, her folds sliding against him with each deliberate, forceful motion of her body.


    But as the rhythm settled, Frances slowly found her own pace, positioning herself just right to


    saddle up and ride him.


    "Ah~" Frances moaned, her eyes shut as she sank deeper into the mind-numbing pleasure,


    feeling it envelop her and pull her further without any effort to resist.


    CLAP


    Frances found a burst of strength, lifting herself from the overwhelming pleasure pressing


    down on her, only to give into it, slamming herself back down as his cock drove deep into her.


    Feeling as it sparked her nerve endings with a heated lust, slowly kindling a deeper fire within


    her.


    Without Ricky''s intervention, Frances''s perky ass began to bob on his cock as her sloppy folds rang out as she willingly turned her pussy into mush to feel him deep inside her.


    SLAP


    "AH~"


    SLAP


    "AH~"


    Her ass vibrantly met his thighs, the sharp sound echoing through the small attic as the wet, gushing sound of her folds slamming against hungrily into his cock filled the air. Moans spilled from her lips, each bounce sending waves of ecstasy coursing through her body.


    Without warning, the rhythm she had started to find was abruptly interrupted as Ricky sank his fingernails into her ass and as she rose, he slammed her back down "AH!" Frances dry heaved out a moan, arching her entire body backwards at her lungs seemingly squeezing at the strain shooting through her insides.


    However, there was nowhere to escape as Ricky''s hand held her down, trapped by the


    suffocating sensation of his tip pressing against her womb.


    Her mind went blank, her primal instincts taking over as her body swelled with sensation,


    unable to contain it as she tried to handle all of him.


    The pleasure was nearly insurmountable for Frances, leaving her nearly incoherent as she was swept away in a tide of ecstasy.


    It felt as though she were being consumed by the sensations, filled to the brim with pleasure,


    as though force-fed and trying to satisfy an insatiable hunger of the man encompassing her entire being.


    Then, without warning, everything was interrupted as she was lifted up and immediately


    plunged back down


    SLAP


    The towering slap of her ass rippled across the space after being slammed down on his cock,


    her perky peaches rippling from the collision only to be raised up once more.


    SLAP


    Frances''s eyes fluttered closed, rolling back slightly as this time Ricky thrusted upward,


    meeting her waist with a force, sending a jolt of pleasure through her that only intensified the


    sensation already crippling her mind.


    SLAP


    SLAP


    SLAP


    Frances''s body felt like a ragdoll, a mannequin propped up to fulfill another''s desires as she


    had completely drowned in the sensation of him.


    Red marks began to appear on her ass as it smacked down with increasing force, leaving light


    bruises in their wake.


    Ricky was toying with her body, devouring her like a lollipop, swirling and savoring every moment with the aggressive flick of his tongue.


    While her ass rippled under constantly being impaled upon his cock, the hickies were


    becoming more apparent while littering almost every inch of her neck and collarbone.


    Perfectly spaced out, ensuring nothing collided, he was completely covering her with his marks.


    Ricky was going overboard, unable to control himself, pouring all the stress and anger that had built up in him into Frances as she sat atop him, taking everything he had to give. With one swift motion of Frances sliding down him, her eyes shot open, the air returning to


    her lungs, signaling that something deep within her was about to burst.


    "Ah~"


    "AH~"


    "AH!"


    Frances''s moans reached a fervent pitch as she felt the tip of his cock kissing her womb


    passionately. Her walls twitched uncomfortably, a mix of pleasure and overwhelming fullness consuming her, driving her further into ecstasy while proning that feeling lodged within her.


    Feeling that slithering pleasure churn within his balls, Ricky''s cock started twitching with


    anticipation.


    Each thrust brought them closer to the edge, their shared ecstasy intertwining in a rhythm that felt both primal and electrifying.


    Then, with one final slam of Frances''s ass onto Ricky''s cock, her walls clenched as she


    teetered on the edge and just as she reached her peak, Ricky grunted, his own pleasure


    building.


    "F*ck-" Ricky grunted, his balls tightened before his cum rushed from the tip, a rush of milky


    white cream spurting deep into her womb.


    "AHHHHH!" Frances''s eyes widened, her lips parting as her body twitched, overwhelmed by the searing warmth pulsing in her stomach before her other set of lips squealed out. Soaking Ricky''s waist in her sweet and supple nectar, Frances felt as though she had given


    everything she had.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    Frances let out ragged breaths, falling against his chest as exhaustion began to creep in, her


    eyes fluttering shut.


    As they rose, Frances found herself beneath Ricky, his gaze greedily fixed on her as both of her wrists were pinned to the floor. "I''m going to f*cking ruin you, Frances." Ricky let out a breath, his body not satisfied and


    having this need to spill every last ounce of himself into her, his mind consumed by the


    desperate craving to claim her once more.


    Frances could only stare up at him, her lips parted as drool dripped from the corners of her


    mouth, her body slick with sweat, each droplet clinging to her brown hair as it stuck to her flushed skin.


    Her gaze was locked on him, helpless, as he slowly pulled his hips back, leaving her insides with an aching hollow feeling.


    Until Ricky pulverized her insides with his next powerful thrust, her eyes going wide as her


    head pressing further against the floorboards, her neck arching in to look at the wall that hung


    one of her paintings.


    CREAK


    The floorboards shuddered beneath the punishing force that was slammed into Frances, her


    insides being reduced to mush as he had his complete way with her body.


    "Ah~"


    A hollowed stream of moans started to seep from her drooling lips, his cock reducing her


    mind to a mere broken record.


    Her entire body was drenched in pleasure, every inch of her trembling with ecstasy under


    every single thrust rammed into her waist, but her eyes remained fixed on the painting before


    her.


    The single bowl of fruit, ripe and dripping with sweetness, symbolizing what she had been reduced to this moment.


    Then her body convulsed, spraying out a helping of her sweet nectar as Ricky sank his teeth


    into her, his canines leaving a delicate imprint on her nipple before he began to kiss it, teasing


    and claiming her all at once.


    Everything blurred beneath the overwhelming pleasure, her body seemingly out of her own


    control under his cock, proning a spray of sweet nectar under every other thrust which drove


    her to the brink of madness.


    Frances lost count of how many times she''d come, her body trembling, barely able to keep up as each second passed as the floorboards beneath her were soaked with her essence. Her love juices seeped into the cracks, dripping inward as though to stain the very foundation


    of the house with her raw desire.


    "Ah-"


    Gazing down at Frances, her hollowed moans escaping with every thrust of his hips, each


    movement colliding into her drenched folds, he couldn''t stop, consumed by the need to push


    further.


    The warm, inviting feel of her walls gripped him as he forced himself deeper, her body unable


    to resist, enveloping him with a soft, wet embrace.


    That was before the tightness seized him, not enough to feel suffocating, but more than


    enough to let Ricky experience the full ecstasy of filling her to the brim.


    How he felt her insides utterly part just for him, seemingly splitting her apart before her walls


    formed around him and pieced themselves together.


    Then, as if he couldn''t feel any more, his cock twitched, signaling that he was nearing the


    edge, but Frances simply surrendered, accepting it all without hesitation.


    CREAK


    CREAK


    CREAK


    The pleasure mounted with every thrust, Ricky pushing himself harder with each movement,


    driven to outdo the last, consumed by the desperate need for more. The floorboards creaked and groaned beneath him, soaked and strained, on the verge of


    giving out from the force of their union.


    Frances had stopped moaning, her breath shallow, her insides reduced to mere past and


    nothing more than a pliable vessel for Ricky to empty himself into, her body at his mercy.


    "Have~"


    CREAK


    "My~"


    CREAK


    "Bastards~" Ricky muttered, jam-packing every last bit of himself to the woman beneath


    him, feeling the rush of pleasure flood through him.


    His cock erupted in a seismic proportion as his tip burst with his thick cum alongside a load


    that towered over the last serving already lodged deep within her. Greedily claiming every inch of her, filling her with his baby batter, the weight of it all sealing


    her fate as both a mother and a future mistress.


    "That''s the money shot~" Ricky chuckled out, groaning while pulling out his cock which


    perked upwards once released, though his eyes were gazing down at the sight of his


    reckoning.


    Frances, hollow-eyed and breathing heavily, felt his cock that had taken her insides into a


    strangle hold, finally release and loosen its grip on her stomach.


    She didn''t even care to glance down at her swollen, deformed pussy, too lost in the aftermath


    of it all.


    Gaping and stretched to its limit, her folds had been permanently molded to fit his size, the


    searing pleasure engraved deep within her subconscious, a sensation that nothing would ever


    be able to surpass unless done by Ricky personally.


    Sniff


    "Huh?" Ricky''s nose suddenly sniffed the air, the burning sensation filling his nose as his


    mind trailed off to figure out the cause only for something to appear to momentarily distract


    him.


    DING


    Author''s Note: Sorry if it isn''t up to par cause I wrote most of this when I was sick. I''ll maek


    sure to do even better and try to improve my smut.


    5 advanced chaps on my paterion https://www.patreon.com/LaughingFiend

 Chapter 138 - 133: The Path Forward

    Chapter 138: Chapter 133: The Path Forward


    "Oh sh*t, my sauce!"


    Ricky''s head bolted up, the system window trailing behind him as he rushed downstairs to a trail of smoke.


    [Mission Received: Frances Hutt]


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: C+


    Frances Hutt, the wife of Thomas Dewey, has long been the epitome of a devoted and loyal partner. As a stay-at-home wife, she has faithfully supported her husband''s career and ambitions, standing by him through every challenge. Yet, the past few years have taken their toll on her. Dewey, consumed by his work and relentless in his pursuit to reclaim the success he once had, has distanced himself from Frances emotionally. Their home, once filled with shared conversations and mutual support, has become a place of isolation for her. In reality, Frances has been left to bear the weight of her loneliness in silence. She''s given up her own desires, her own needs, for the sake of Dewey''s ambitions. And as his work continues to pull him further away, Frances finds herself yearning for the attention, companionship, and love that has long been absent from her life.


    Objective: Help Frances regain her lost wants and fulfill her unmet needs


    Reward: 50,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once:


    Rewards: 100 Gacha or Frances Skill''s


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Have Frances Open herself up to you(Complete)


    Reward: Rare Item Coupon


    Impregnate Frances In Dewey''s Home(Complete)


    Reward: Epic Skill Coupon


    Impregnate Frances In Dewey''s office(Incomplete)


    Reward: Epic Item Coupon


    Bonus Missions:


    Have Frances cum three times in one sitting(Complete)


    Reward: +3 appearance


    Make Frances cum with anything other than your dick(Complete)


    Reward: +3 Charm


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    BAM


    "My sauce~" Ricky whined, hitting his head against the counter as his sauce, something he had dedicated so much time to, was ruined.


    Still completely naked, Ricky raised his head to the system window since at least some good came out of all of this.


    ''Just give me my rewards.''


    DING


    Received:


    (Epic Skill) Heightened Awareness: Allows the user not only to foresee threats but to fully assess the situation in slow motion, giving them time to plan their next move.


    (Rare Item) Whistle Of Unbinding: A One Time Use item that, when blown, breaks any binding that encapsulates the user.


    Ricky blinked a few times, his vision blurring momentarily as a sharp, burning sensation rippled across his face before it disappeared.


    Feeling his cheek, Ricky nodded his head before dumping his sauce into the sink and trying not to look at it for the fear of a tear shedding at his ruined work.


    ''Man, feed heightened awareness-''


    Thump


    Ricky''s heart pounded violently in his chest, each beat echoing like a war drum as if something deep within him was stirring.


    But just as the sensation seemed ready to push him over the edge, to ignite something profound within him, it vanished without a trace.


    [Heightened Awareness has been consumed and has meshed with The Unraveling Foretelling (formerly Defensive Precognition)]


    DING


    Temporal Insight: The user can foresee threats and assess situations as if time itself slows down, granting them the ability to plan and react with precision. However, their perception is warped by fragmented glimpses of possible futures, adding a layer of unpredictability to their foresight.


    Abilities:


    Distorted Vision of Fate: The user perceives unstable flashes of potential futures, each revealing imminent attacks, movements, or outcomes. These glimpses allow the user to react in ways that seem impossibly anticipatory, dodging or countering with preternatural accuracy.


    Danger Reflexes: The user''s reflexes are already heighted to an abnormal degree but in situations that even defy them, during critical moments, the user gains the advantage of thinking and acting as though every second stretches into minutes, turning complex decisions into split-second choices.


    Then, suddenly, the pot tipped over, its descent pulling Ricky''s attention with an almost magnetic force.


    In that instant, the world around him seemed to decelerate, every movement stretching into surreal slow motion.


    His eyes, now enveloped in a void-like hue, locked onto the falling object, capturing every detail as though time itself had yielded to his perception before he sought to reach out and act.


    ''Woah.'' Ricky thought, holding the pot that barely left the kitchen top and placed it back onto it.


    ''This actually rules-''


    BEEP


    BEEP


    "Dammit, my bread sticks!" Ricky''s head jerked back, rushing away from his thoughts but the system window refused to go away still.


    Ricky had yet to decide whether to accept his gacha or Frances'' skills, but the latter couldn''t care less; he was focused on salvaging the dinner that was quickly falling apart.


    ''I don''t know, I guess Gacha-''


    DING


    [The threshold of 1,000 total gacha has been surpassed, unlocking the next phase]


    "The wha-"


    [From now on, gacha will be optimized due to the host continued progression through gacha]


    [Standard draws will still be given that range from Common to &*^5+^$@, with decreasing odds for higher tiers]


    [Gacha will now include guaranteed draws for every new mission the host undertakes. In addition to standard pulls, these guaranteed pulls will now be grouped together for convenience]


    [Gacha pulls: Guaranteed Rewards


    Common Gacha Pull: Guarantees a Common reward or higher.


    Uncommon Gacha Pull: Guarantees an Uncommon reward or higher.


    Rare Gacha Pull: Guarantees a Rare reward or higher.


    Epic Gacha Pull: Guarantees an Epic reward or higher.


    Legendary Gacha Pull: Guarantees a Legendary reward or higher.


    Mythic Gacha Pull: Guarantees a Mythic reward.]


    [Guaranteed pulls can be converted into the next branch, whereas standard pulls cannot]


    [Pull Conversion System:


    2 Common Gacha Pulls ¡ú 1 Uncommon Gacha Pull


    4 Uncommon Gacha Pulls ¡ú 1 Rare Gacha Pull


    6 Rare Gacha Pulls ¡ú 1 Epic Gacha Pull


    8 Epic Gacha Pulls ¡ú 1 Legendary Gacha Pull


    10 Legendary Gacha Pulls ¡ú 1 Mythic Gacha Pull]


    [Finally with the option of guarantee pulls, probability has been tweaked:


    Probability:


    Common: 50¡ú52%


    Uncommon: 30¡ú31%


    Rare: 10%


    Epic: 5¡ú4%


    Legendary: 4¡ú2.5%


    Mythic: 1¡ú.5%]


    [Introduction has ended]


    "Uh, okay." Ricky looked at all the information with only two words to sum it up.


    Munching on his charred breadstick, Ricky leaned back, flipping through the information with a rare moment of focus instead of his usual haphazard approach as the ruined breadstick hardly seemed to bother him while he continued to chew on it.


    It wasn''t exactly surprising that Ricky hadn''t been relying on gacha much these days.


    Most of the women he''d been involved with were already ridiculously powerful, making the allure of random skills and abilities less enticing to the upfront rewards.


    Besides, winging it had always worked well enough, until now.


    It might have seemed like a downgrade at first, but as Ricky read through the section that outlined guaranteed pulls alongside standard ones in mission rewards, his entire way of thinking was flipped upside down.


    The revelation hit him like a wave: missions'' difficulty would directly correlate with the quality of the rewards as the harder the mission, the better the rewards and thus, guaranteed pulls.


    Instead of a bulk of standard pulls, guaranteed pulls would be alongside them to sway Ricky''s thoughts from choosing abilities.


    For the first time, Ricky found himself actually considering the choice between enhancing his arsenal of skills and abilities or taking the risk with guaranteed gacha pulls.


    "Oh f*ck this, I gotta focus on dinner." Ricky waved his hand, dismissing the window since the 100 standard pulls were grandfathered in meaning it wouldn''t take effect until the next mission, meaning he''d worry about it when he was there.


    "Now, let''s make some dinner."


    1 hour later,


    "So, the sauce and breadsticks were ruined, and I had to work with what I had." Ricky, completely naked except for an apron to cover himself, turned back to Frances, who let out a light laugh, shaking her head.


    Frances tried to maintain her composure, but as her robe slipped down her supple shoulder, the hickeys left by Ricky sent a wave of heat through her.


    The memory of the events that had left her barely able to walk resurfaced, making it harder to keep her mind off of it.


    "R-Ricky, what we just did-"


    "France''s, don''t worry." Ricky walked over to her, sitting down at her side as he gently adjusted a loose lock of hair, tucking it behind her ear before placing a soft kiss on her cheek.


    "I''ll take care of you." Ricky whispered, setting a light kiss on her cheek as the mere touch of him made her body form goosebumps.


    "T-That''s not it, I''m married and-" France''s blushed fervently, trying to push Ricky away but he leaned in further, kissing her neck.


    "Dewey isn''t good enough for a gal like you. He won''t give you a family, and even now, he can''t even be here with you." Ricky''s voice was akin to the devil''s whisper, his hand slowly trekking down her body as she shivered at his touch.


    "Let me take care of you, let me give you all the things he can''t~" Ricky''s hum coaxed a moan from Frances, who leaned into his embrace, a smile spreading across his face.


    Picking her up, he walked back up the stairs and closed the door to the master bedroom as her breathy moans echoed through the night, while he continued to burn his sauce for the second time.


    Meanwhile in the backstreets of D.C,


    A figure clad in a trench coat moved through the shadowed alleyways, their steps steady and deliberate.


    As they approached a metal door, the reflection in the dim light revealed piercing yellow eyes, Raven.


    Knock


    Knock


    Suddenly, the peephole on the door slid open, revealing three eyes that stared down at the visitor. They squinted before the hole closed again. A moment later, the door creaked open, and a burly man with three eyes gestured for Raven to enter as she steadied her gaze and walked forward.


    Walking down the steps, Raven reached another door, which was opened by a blind, blurry-eyed man as he revealed to her an underground sanctuary beyond.


    Although mutants were a rare and often elusive sight, their numbers always seemed to remain a fraction compared to those of regular humans, but the balance of power shifted in the 1920s.


    A sudden and inexplicable surge of mutations began to take place, sparking what could only be described as a mutant boom.


    However, this unprecedented rise in mutant numbers also sparked an equally unparalleled wave of fear.


    As mutants began to reveal themselves, the growing anxiety among the public became palpable, with many fearing the unknown power that these individuals possessed.


    The sudden influx of mutants, once a hidden part of society, only intensified the paranoia surrounding them.


    As a result, the mutant population, already accustomed to the shadows, retreated even further into the underground, pulling away from the spotlight and hiding from those who sought to control or eradicate them.


    As a result, mutant communes and gatherings began to form in highly populated areas, and one of them was located here.


    Hidden beneath the bustling streets of Washington D.C., within a network of tunnels and chambers repurposed from an abandoned subway system, one of these communes awaited Raven as the name, bold and unmistakable, greeted her as she stepped inside.


    ''The Sanctuary''


    Established in the late 1920s by a coalition of mutants and sympathetic humans, the Sanctuary was born out of necessity as anti-mutant sentiment grew in the United States.


    As the Great Depression deepened, the organization sought to provide a safe haven for those who were persecuted for their abilities, offering a refuge for mutants to escape the dangers of the outside world of the political center of the U.S.


    The Sanctuary is a bustling underground community filled with various mutant individuals from different backgrounds, each contributing their skills and talents.


    The tunnels are decorated with vibrant murals created by artistic mutants, depicting their stories and struggles.


    Makeshift living quarters are set up in the chambers, creating a sense of community among the residents.


    Within the Sanctuary, mutants can find safety, companionship, and resources to help them thrive.


    There''s a communal kitchen where residents share meals, and a small library filled with books about history, politics, and the mutant experience.


    Training rooms are also available, allowing mutants to hone their abilities in a safe environment, with older, experienced mutants mentoring the younger ones.


    However, this place wasn''t the safe haven it was preached to be.


    Raven knew the truth, this establishment was merely a breeding ground for a power-hungry mutant.


    Walking past the unsuspecting faces that were unknowingly being bred to be cannon fodder, Raven reached a door that swung open before her.


    She stepped inside, her gaze landing on the figure she had come for and there, in the dim light, stood a man cloaked in shadow.


    His entire body was a hollow silhouette, with nothing visible except for a pair of floating red eyes.


    ''Oh Raven, how wonderful it is to see you once again, please take a seat.'' The man stretched out his shadowy hands, his red floating eyes forming crescent moons as Raven slowly took a seat across from him.


    "Hello, Elias," Raven said, squinting her eyes as his words echoed in her mind, but the sight of the two hollow figures standing at the side, their eyes bleeding, drowned out everything else.


    Throughout her long history in this world, Raven had come to know not only many influential figures in history but also numerous powerful mutants, with Elias being one of the most notable.


    Elias was an immortal mutant, his powers shrouded in mystery even to the inner circle of the community.


    Once the Black King of the Hellfire Club, he had lost his title to a man named Sebastian Shaw and in a bold attempt to reclaim his position, Elias was banished from the club.


    His resources and allies were stripped away, casting him into hiding, where he eventually resurfaced in the political heart of America.


    However, instead of gathering mutants by force, Elias could only exert his power through telepaths.


    Once a telepath is under his possession, he can use that telepath to possess others, but that raises the question of how he possesses the first telepath.


    ''I haven''t seen you in ninety years, so it''s a pleasure to see you suddenly arrive at my new dwelling, especially after how you left things with the Hellfire Club,'' Elias said, leaning back in his chair. His eyes locked onto Raven with intrigue before he leaned in, his gaze intensifying.


    ''Or is this about the new fascination within the mutant scene? Perhaps, Ricky Luciano?'' Elias'' eyes gleamed with glee, sensing the truth in Raven''s cold, disdainful look as he knew he was right almost immediately.


    ''Ah, it is.'' Elias said, his voice dripping with amusement.


    ''Now I''m barely hanging on the edge of my seat. Please, don''t make me wait any longer.'' Elias''s chuckle echoed inside Raven''s skull as she adjusted herself, her patience wearing thin.


    "I''ve been out of touch recently," Raven began, her voice steady, maintaining her composure in front of a man who revels in making others uncomfortable.


    "I''m here to ask if you''re still a broker, or if you know anyone who-"


    ''Raven, let''s be honest with ourselves. Is anyone truly better than me?'' Elias said, gesturing to his own shadowy figure as his eyes shifted, forming into crescent moons as he leaned forward, a smirk playing at the edges of his lips if he had lips to begin with.


    "No, no there is not," Raven replied calmly, her gaze unwavering as she addressed the man who had managed to gather over a hundred mutants in an era where finding even twenty would have been an achievement.


    ''Now, what can I do for you?''


    "I want your help in starting a march that would draw more attention to this trial." Raven said, her voice serious and deliberate but Elias, however, laughed as if the very idea were absurd.


    ''And why would I ever do something as stupid as that?''


    ''I thrive in places where mutants are hated, so I can collect them and indulge my desire to breed more telepaths,'' Elias said, his gaze fixed on Raven as if the idea she presented was the stupidest thing he had ever heard.


    "Because Ricky''s mutant power is strong enough to warrant consideration for the Hellfire Club," Raven revealed as Elias''s mocking gaze instantly froze, his expression shifting.


    "And you should know that with the Ebony Blade, he can be considered on of the strongest mutants in the world and with a strong mutant comes-"


    ''The Hellfire Club.'' Elias squinted, remaining still as he looked at Raven.


    ''So you want me to risk everything I''ve been cultivating for the last fifty years to back someone who''s barely a passable mobster?'' Elias said, revealing the extent of what he knew about Ricky.


    His words hinted at his mastery of information gathering, subtly asserting his position as one of the best within the mutant community.


    "He''s strong, he''s dedicated, and he has solid backing with significant potential for growth. Is that not everything you need to return to the Hellfire Club?" Raven asked, her tone steady as Elias squeezed his shadowy fist, the tension evident, before slowly releasing it.


    ''Fine.''


    "Good I''ll-"


    ''After I meet him.''


    "That''s not-"


    ''I wasn''t asking, he wants my help, then he can come here and ask for himself.'' Elias stood up, gesturing towards the door.


    ''Now, if you excuse me, I have things to attend to.'' Elias shooed Raven away, the woman squinting at him before walking out of the office.


    Once she finished speaking, Elias glanced to the side as his telepaths quietly walked away, and then the shadowy figure slid a folder across the table, its cover marked with the name ''Ricky Luciano''.


    ''What a mess this fellow is, well, all the more.''


    The next day,


    In the early morning, humming a tune as he walked toward the dilapidated motel he was staying at, Ricky''s eyes suddenly caught sight of Jake moving off to the side.


    Although he wanted to trust him and go about his day, something made him follow Jake down the street, eventually turning into an alley.


    ''No, Jake don''t tell me-''


    "You sell the stuff here?" Jake asked, scratching his neck as he addressed a man propped up against the wall.


    Though his body wasn''t showing signs of withdrawal, his mind wasn''t immune to the gnawing obsession, a fact that seemed to drive him crazy with each passing moment.


    Addiction was just as mental as it was physical, maybe even more so, and Jake couldn''t take it any longer with all this downtime.


    While Asterion roamed around the city, taking in the sights, and the others passed the time with card games, Marshall agonized over the case and Jake was left all alone.


    Ricky had run off with a girl, which wasn''t anything new, but Jake just couldn''t bring himself to fill the void.


    Instead, he found himself once again in a back alley, the familiar, oppressive weight of his thoughts closing in.


    It wasn''t about the high anymore; it was about the void, the space inside his mind where the addiction had once lived, gnawing at the edges of his thoughts.


    Jake had tried his hardest to fill his time with menial tasks and distractions, trying to occupy himself with others, but it was never enough as the pressure had built up, and he had finally reached his limit.


    "It''s five bucks-"


    BAM


    A fist slammed into the dealer''s jaw, his eyes rolling back before his body went limp and was tossed aside like a ragdoll.


    Before Jake could react, he was slammed into the wall, his hand instinctively reaching for his gun.


    But then, he froze since there, standing before him, was Ricky, his gaze cold and furious.


    "S-Slick-"


    "What happened to staying clean? Wanting to get better, huh?!" Ricky yelled at Jake, his frustration boiling over as his face flickered with emotion, cracking under the weight of his own anger as he stared at Jake, waiting for an answer.


    "I-I can''t, I just can''t-"


    BAM


    In the next second, Jake''s face was clocked, sending him crashing to the floor.


    As he lay there, a surge of anger ripped through him, and he gazed up at Ricky, his hand pressed against his throbbing cheek.


    "WHAT HAPPENED TO LETTING ME MAKE MY OWN DECISIONS, SAYING THAT YOU''D LET ME-"


    "I F*CKING LIED, THERE WAS NO WAY IN HELL I WAS GOING TO LET YOU GO DOWN THAT ROAD AND I WOULD''VE FORCED YOU EITHER WAY!" Ricky yelled back at Jake, his voice laced with fury as he knew he couldn''t let him wander down the path of self-destruction, no matter the cost.


    It had all been a lie, a facade Ricky had put up to give Jake the illusion of making his own choice on the road to recovery.


    But deep down, Ricky knew that even if Jake had rejected him from the start, he would have found him anyway and forced him into sobriety.


    "I JUST CAN''T DO ANYMORE, I NEED IT RICKY-I-I need it, please." Jake''s voice was spiraling into a tremble, grabbing Ricky''s pant leg and begging.


    "I can''t do this, I''m not strong like you and-"


    "Jake, look at me," Ricky said, kneeling down in front of him with an understanding expression.


    Ricky saw no other option; he didn''t want to mess with his friend''s mind, but at that moment, he saw no other choice in the matter before drawing back his fist.


    BAM


    GASP


    Jake''s eyes suddenly shot open, his gaze darting around the room as he rubbed his head, trying to make sense of what had happened.


    Confusion clouded his mind as he tried to recall the events, only to be met with a vague, almost fake memory of hitting the door and then passing out.


    Knock


    Knock


    "Hey, dumbass, did you wake up yet?" Ricky asked, though he opened the door anyway as he found Jake sitting there, still confused, munching on a burrito like nothing had happened.


    "W-What happened?"


    "You tripped and fell. Chester found you sprawled out on your floor, and I thought you got high again, but your stupidity just got the best of you and you fell on your face." Ricky spoke through a mouthful of burrito, pointing his thumb at the crow, who lazily held up his wing in acknowledgment.


    "F*ck off." Jake chuckled, rubbing his head before wincing slightly from the pain.


    "Here." Ricky handed him a spare burrito, sitting down in a nearby chair as Jake stared at it for a moment, his mind still hazy from the confusion.


    "How are you feeling? That bruise you got there is a nasty one." Ricky munched on his burrito, pointing it at Jake''s head as he watched him closely.


    "I-I feel fine?" Jake muttered, seemingly asking himself as that shackling burden that had loomed over his mind, the craving for a high, suddenly vanished.


    He felt an odd sense of peace settle over him, as if a weight had been lifted, leaving him in a quiet, unexpected calm.


    "Uh, okay." Ricky stood up, playing it cool as he patted Jake''s shoulder.


    "You need anything?" Ricky asked, raising an eyebrow, trying to hide the concern in his tone while Jake just leaned back on the bed, taking a bite of his burrito, before shaking his head slightly.


    "No, I don''t think I do." Jake let out a small laugh, feeling a sense of clarity he hadn''t experienced in a long time.


    For the first time since Ricky had found him in that hellhole, he didn''t crave the high, and it allowed him to finally relax, his mind feeling less tangled as he closed his eyes with a comforting smile.


    Ricky gazed at him for a while, his expression softening before he silently walked out of the room, closing the door behind him.


    He took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment settle in, a quiet relief washing over him as he stepped into the hallway with Chester following behind him.


    "Are you sure that was the wisest decision, it would''ve been better for him to overcome that feet himself and gain the resolve-"


    "I know, and it was selfish of me to do it." Ricky walked forward, his tone heavier as he spoke while Chester flapped his wings from the side, following him closely, almost as he was his conscience.


    "But what was I supposed to do-"


    "Help him as his friend, not merely use a power to ''fix'' him." Chester''s words gnawed at Ricky, making him stop in his tracks before turning back to his familiar.


    "I tried it''s just that-"


    "You''re too busy." Chester finished his sentence, his eyes locking onto Ricky with a knowing look.


    It was true since Ricky had been overwhelmed with everything, and Chester could see it clearly.


    "Being a good friend is about making time, amidst the chaos, and-"


    "I honestly don''t think I''ve been a good friend to Jake, Chester, in fact, sometimes I feel like Jake would''ve been better off without me as a friend." Ricky''s tone was somber, his gaze flickering dowards before sighing as he leaned on the railing.


    "I''m the one who dragged him into my club business, got him hooked on drugs, and then left." Ricky''s voice was low, heavy with guilt as he spoke to Chester as the crow remained silent, watching him with an almost solemn gaze.


    Ricky slowly turned his focus to the railing, his eyes following the crowd picketing outside the motel.


    "And I keep telling myself that I''m going to be better, act better, but I didn''t mean it in the way most people think." Ricky continued, his voice heavy with a bitter truth.


    "I meant that I was going to do it my way." Ricky''s eyes were resolute as he turned to face Chester, who simply remained silent, the weight of Ricky''s words settling between them.


    "If my decision ends up being the wrong one, then I''m prepared to live with it," Ricky said, his voice steady and serious as he tapped the railing, his gaze fixed on the ground ahead.


    "But I don''t want to act a certain way just because others think it''s the best choice. I live with the choices I make and I''m gonna live with this." Ricky turned his back to Chester, the weight of his words lingering in the air as the crow remained silent, looking down in quiet contemplation.


    "What about free will, what about Jake''s will?" Chester asked, looking back up at Ricky who slowly came to a stop as he laughed.


    "Free will is only for the strong, and Jake showed he wasn''t strong enough." Ricky said with a cold laugh, the words leaving his mouth heavier than he intended.


    A flicker of disappointment crossed his face, not just for Jake, but for himself as he paused for a moment, the weight of his statement sinking in, before he walked forward, the resolve in his steps unwavering despite the conflict in his mind.


    Honestly, Ricky knew he was a mess, a case that took another lifetime to just pull himself together.


    But he couldn''t help but wonder, if those who had loved him in his past life, truly cared about him, had possessed his power, would they have used it to erase the trauma that haunted him?


    Maybe they wouldn''t be able to, unable to stomach the thought of toying with his mind but Ricky was different.


    Ricky was slowly beginning to understand what true power meant, a realization that had been unfolding over time throughout his life.


    At first, he grasped the allure of power in his youth, recognizing what it could provide, a system that enveloped him, offering something that others could only dream of.


    Then it evolved.


    Slowly, Ricky realized that what the Luciano family had given him, simply by existing as Lucky''s son, was the power of notoriety, a strength he had suddenly thirsted for, only to be cast aside.


    Then, upon reaching his lowest point, Ricky learned the true cost of improvement, the effort it took to grow, not just as a person, but as someone capable of becoming stronger through body and will.


    However, through everything he had learned and all the tribulations he faced, Ricky was finally beginning to understand what true power really was, what true power meant to him.


    But in his relentless thirst for power, he began to fully appreciate the system that had granted him everything.


    Although he had taken it for granted in the past, he now realized he was still underutilizing its full potential.


    Ricky understood this deeply as he knew that if he truly focused, all the power he craved could be his.


    But he wasn''t just aiming for power within the system anymore, he was trying to build something beyond it, something that the system couldn''t reward him with.


    He had to win this trial, something outside the realm of the established order.


    It was a test of his will, a challenge that would define his true strength, and he knew that achieving it would require more than just the system''s advantages.


    Ricky had his mind set on manipulating the highest powers in the land, finding the Supreme Court justices and bending them to his will.


    He wasn''t going to leave something this critical to chance but just as his thoughts hardened into a plan, Raven appeared in his line of sight.


    "Ricky, I think I found someone who can help you," Raven revealed, her voice laced with a hint of excitement. Ricky''s curiosity piqued, and he put on a smile, though inwardly, a sigh escaped him.


    ''Don''t tell me she actually found someone to do the job I wanted her to ask for.'' Ricky inwardly sighed, opened his arms, leaning in to kiss her cheek.


    "Then lead the way, baby." Ricky''s smile remained as he slid his hand down her back, his touch both confident and familiar as he cupped her ass, she swatted his chest playfully.


    Ricky followed Raven to the side, where the sanctuary awaited and as they descended into the underground lair, he took in the sight of the hidden refuge, a place where mutants gathered and lived outside the reach of society.


    At first, most of them remained unaware of his presence but as soon, as the first pair of eyes locked onto him, a ripple of recognition spread like wildfire.


    A swarm of whispers followed in the wake of his steps, the air thick with murmured conversations and speculative glances.


    Arriving at the office, Ricky''s heightened awareness kicked in, his senses sharpening to a degree he''d never felt before.


    A mental shield materialized around his mind, a defense he''d developed instinctively and in his hand, the Chastefold appeared.


    BAM


    Kicking down the door, Ricky''s body pulsed in his sovereign aura, rippling a green hue as he looked at the intruder who had tried to enter into his mind.


    Elias'' eyes widened at this response, holding up his ethereal shadowy hands in surrender before he gestured to the women bleeding at his side.


    "I did not mean my actions as offensive." Elias spoke, his voice calm yet tinged with amusement but he wasn''t speaking himself but through his human conduits.


    "I was merely trying to talk since I am but a pair of floating eyes and thus rely on telepaths to communicate. But I must say, I had no idea you commanded your barriers in such a way." Elias''s eyes curved into crescent moons, a silent expression of delight at Ricky''s impressive defensive capabilities.


    "Yeah, well, I''m not fond of people poking around in my mind." Ricky said with a sigh, holding up his hand to Elias.


    The ebony blade at his side gave off an almost mocking presence, but he simply tapped its handle, subtly apologising for calling the spear instead of unsheathing it.


    "So I assumed you know why I asked to meet you here?" Elias said through the telepath, Ricky sitting down in front of him while staring at the floating pair of red eyes.


    "Cause you want to lead the foundation, right?" Ricky said suddenly with Raven''s eyes widening, her gaze shifting to the side, caught off guard by his directness.


    "Ricky-"


    "Listen, even if Raven vouches for you, I already have someone in mind and I don''t want to get your hopes up." Ricky scoffed, crossing his arms as it was Elias'' turn to become confused.


    "Pardon?"


    "Didn''t Raven come to you about the foundation-"


    "Ricky, that wasn''t what this was for!" Raven exclaimed, her face flushing with embarrassment.


    Elias raised his pair of eyes, observing the unfamiliar expression on the woman before him, never seeing her in all of his time in knowing this elusive figure made such an expression.


    "Oh, wait, what?" Ricky asked, now just as confused as Elias, causing both mutants to turn toward Raven, who coughed awkwardly, avoiding their gazes.


    "Elias here is an old acquaintance of mine who acted as my mutant broker while we were in the Hellfire Club together." Raven introduced, with Elias bowing slightly as Ricky crossed his legs.


    "Raven, why am I here?" Ricky asked with a light sigh, clearly confused as to why this man was in front of him if it wasn''t for his foundation.


    "Elias is a very prominent member of the mutant community, whether through the underworld or the more legitimate side." Raven explained, trying to help Ricky who had a frown on his face while looking at this entire misunderstanding unfold into the situation it was now.


    ''Jesus christ, Raven.'' Ricky thought, knowing he should''ve just outwardly said he wanted her as the head of the foundation instead of hinting at it before.


    "So am I hiring this thing to be a advisor or-"


    "You''re going to hire me because I can win you your little trial after I pull all the favors I''ve built up here." Elias leaned forward, clearly delighted to steer the conversation in this direction.


    "Listen, Ricky, I have a lot of enemies due to my endless ambition, but it''s these same ambitions that led to my downfall," Elias said, showing his vulnerabilities in an effort to let Ricky lower his guard.


    "I''ve now ended up in a place that isn''t where I belong, and that''s where you come in," Elias continued, his shadowy hands gesturing toward Ricky.


    All while Ricky sat on the chair clearly unamused and with a slouching form, deadpanning at a pair of floating red eyes who were already making demands of him.


    "I''m going to support you, and then you''ll get me back into the Hellfire Club-where are you going?" Elias started only to shift his words into a question, standing up in surprise as he saw Ricky turning to leave.


    "I''m really not sorry because this is ridiculous, I''m leaving." Ricky''s words shocked not only Elias, but Raven.


    "Ricky, is there a problem, Elias is someone who could-"


    "Raven, taking away from the fact that he or it is incredibly f*cking annoying, that''s a floating pair of eyes in a shadow." Ricky said, gesturing toward Elias as the latter squinted at the remark, clearly annoyed by the insult.


    "And secondly, I don''t need help winning the trial. I just need to find the justices and sway them," Ricky said, waving Elias away ast he shadowy figure merely scoffed through his telepathic connection.


    "The president has-"


    "Tucked them away, yeah, I already guessed as much since the guy has had it out for me since this whole thing started." Ricky finished Elias'' words only for the shadow man to stand up.


    "Your life might''ve been cut and dry when you were the Black Knight, but here it''s different. You need me," Elias''s words made Ricky stop at the door as Raven sighed, rubbing her forehead as Ricky slowly turned around.


    "Oh no-" Raven sighed, only for her words to be interrupted by a shrewd remark.


    "You''re f*cking kidding me, right?" Ricky couldn''t help but laugh, looking at this floating appendage with a mocking expression.


    "I, me, Ricky Luciano, need you?" Ricky asked before slowly walking over to Elias who stood his ground.


    "Yes, you do." Elias stared at him dead in his green eyes, unmoving as Ricky raised his gaze.


    "How would I ever need you?" Ricky''s eyes were cold, gazing down at Elias who simply spread his hands.


    "Because power is a curious thing." Elias'' words made Ricky frown, looking upon the figure who gripped his hands.


    "Are you fond of riddles?" Elias asked, maintaining his cool and uncaring figure while Ricky stared at him with an impassive gaze.


    "Three great men sit in a room; a king, a priest, and a rich man." Elias continued on, trying to drive down his point but it was only Raven that saw that this wasn''t going to go in his favor.


    "Between them stands a regular mercenary, each man bids the mercenary to kill the other two. Who lives and who dies?" Elias asked Ricky who squinted his eyes as the mutant shook his pair of eyes.


    "You''re no fun, but alas I''ll skip to the point." Elias tone was almost mocking, unknowingly digging his grave even deeper.


    "Power resides where men believe it resides, why do you think I''ve shacked up here in the center of the political world?" Elias spread his hands, gesturing all around him.


    "It''s all a trick, a shadow on the wall and even a pair of floating red eyes can cast a very large shadow." Elias eyes locked onto Ricky''s being, looking at him with a fierce intensity.


    "And sooner or later, the Hellfire Club will attempt to lure you into their grasp. You have no idea what they''re capable of, what they can do. You''ll need the power I possess, whether you want it or not." Elias continued to stare at Ricky, the silence thick in the room until a wave of green energy pulsed through the air, vibrating the walls.


    WHOOSH


    GASP


    In a mere instant, a wave of green energy pulsed through the room, forcing Elias to his knee''s as his red eyes widened.


    It wasn''t any physical weight that forced him down, but the sheer power of Ricky''s resolve, pressing down onto him and everyone in the room like the might of a sovereign.


    The atmosphere seemed to thicken, and even those who were normally impervious to such pressure felt its grip like Raven.


    The energy never reached her as Ricky controlled it but even so, even when standing apart from the chaos, she felt suffocated by the sheer intensity.


    Watching with widened eyes as Elias''s telepathic defenses crumbled under the crushing force of Ricky''s unwavering determination.


    THUMP


    Elias''s telepaths crumbled to the floor, their bodies limp and weak under the oppressive force of Ricky''s presence.


    Elias himself struggled to keep his own body from slamming into the ground, his breath shallow as he barely managed to lift his head as his eyes met Ricky''s, hollow and unblinking, as the weight of Ricky''s will bore down on him.


    Ricky wasn''t even touching him, not using any of his powers.


    It was all the manifestation of his killing intent and unyielding resolve, manifesting into his mutant ability that made the air thick, with a single suffocating promise of destruction.


    "Listen dipstick, I get that I walked into your little town or hidden city or whatever you tell everyone around you to make yourself seem strong." Ricky''s eyes were a shimmering green, his voice calm as he bent down to look Elias right in the eye.


    "Even now, you''ve probably built a sizable amount of wealth and power if you''re surrounded by mutants and I can respect that." Ricky then reached forward, his hands penetrating the shadow form as he latched onto the floating red eyes.


    "What I can''t respect is how you drag me all the way down here to not only demand things out of me, but threaten me in the process." Ricky squeezed, watching the shadowy figure tremble as he leaned in closer.


    "So let me speak to you in a way that will get it across this stupid pair of floating eyes." Ricky grabbed the pair, pulling them to look right into his own green eyes before starting.


    "There''s three men who always mouth off to anyone who will listen about what they think true power is." Ricky''s voice was cold and yet, a smile extended across his face.


    "One says, ''True power comes to those who will do anything to achieve it.''''" Ricky began, his tone dripping with mockery, his eyes narrowing as he spoke the first phrase.


    "The other says, ''Knowledge, the idea of pushing past the boundaries of our thoughts and what we think is possible, that is true power.'' And finally, ''Power is through the words we convey and how well we can spin them into our own ideals.''" Ricky leaned forward slightly, his voice growing colder as he addressed Elias in a riddle.


    "Now, which one is real power?" Ricky asked Elias, squeezing down on the pair of floating pair of eyes.


    "Come on, what''s the answer?" Ricky asked with a laugh, squeezing the pair of eyes while exuding even more of his sovereign aura to press against his telepaths so that they cannot speak.


    "Power is power."


    It was such a simple statement, one that literally anyone could''ve come up with and yet, it was what Ricky believed.


    To Ricky, true power isn''t about the way it''s acquired, or the method used to manipulate it.


    Power simply is.


    It is the force that compels change, that crushes opposition, and what shapes destinies.


    Everything else; the ambition, the knowledge, the words, were merely tools to grasp and hold onto power.


    But in the end, power itself needed no justification or explanation.


    Power is power.


    Power exists beyond the need for reason and transcends the boundaries of morality, of right and wrong.


    It''s not something that seeks clarification, something that doesn''t ask for permission, nor does it seek approval.


    In Ricky''s eyes, true power is the driving force that molds everything to its will and to him, it doesn''t need validation because it is the force that dictates reality.


    Whether it''s earned through sacrifice or seized in a moment of brilliance, power is constant.


    The world may try to define it, confine it, or reshape it into something palatable, but at its core, it remains unchanged.


    For Ricky, power isn''t a goal or a tool to be honed into some idealized form, it''s simply something to acquire, to grasp more of, and to accumulate.


    It is neither defined nor shaped by any external philosophy or virtue, it is an end unto itself.


    Power is not something he seeks to understand or perfect; it''s something he endlessly desires and takes for his own, without need for justification or meaning.


    For him, the pursuit of more power is the only truth that matters.


    "You''re right, I don''t know what that club is capable of nor do I know how they act, but at the same time, you''re words don''t make any f*cking sense." Ricky said, slamming the pair of eyes onto the floor as the shadowy figure was forced to grovel at his feet.


    "If power is a trick, something you convey to others and convince them of it, then how am I holding your life forcefully in my hands, how is this a trick?" Ricky asked, speaking of his words from earlier as Elias could only listen to what he had to say.


    "But let''s skip that, let''s just skip all the riddle bullsh*t and get down to the barebones of it." Ricky then released his grip on the pair of eyes but the aura pulsating from him never ceased.


    "So let introduce myself, I''m a f*cking mobster not just some powered schmuck like the others you got laying around here, I do whatever it takes to make a profit not to keep myself safe." Ricky stood over Elias, the pair of eyes trying to raise itself only to be pushed down by the force of the will towering above it.


    "And on top of that, I''m not some hero or righteous figure trying to do the right thing," Ricky scoffed, his voice dripping with contempt.


    "No, I do whatever benefits me." Ricky paused, letting the weight of his words settle.


    "So now that you know me, the real me," Ricky continued, his eyes narrowing,


    "I''m going to release these damn floating eyeballs and the weak telepaths. And when I do, if I don''t get the goddamn respect I deserve, I''ll make your eyes watch as I slaughter every single mutant in this place. And once it''s burned into your retinas, I''ll crush you into mush." Ricky then waved his hand, releasing his sovereign pressure as the room fell into a tense silence, the oppressive force hanging in the air as everyone stood frozen.


    "Ricky I-"


    "We''ll talk later." Ricky shot a pointed look at Raven, clearly frustrated. She fell silent, rubbing her arm, knowing she had pushed him too far.


    "I suppose I wasn''t the most courteous in my greeting and introductions." Elias said with a telepathic sigh, his shadowy form slowly regaining composure.


    "For that, I apologize." Elias'' eyes shook, his shadowy figure still trembling as he sought to regain his composure along with his telepaths that spoke for him at the side.


    "Can we start over, please?" Elias changed his tone into something more respectable and Ricky merely gazed at him before shifting his view to Raven.


    Sigh


    "Fine, one more chance, since Raven vouched for you," Ricky said, his tone casual while indirectly telling him it was all for Raven''s sake.


    "But if you start going off on some stupid tangent about how I need you or how I''m useless, I''ll burn this place to the ground." Ricky flopped down into the chair, gesturing toward Elias as if he were dismissing the matter entirely.


    "The hellfire club requires power-"


    "Oh Jesus christ." Ricky sighed even heavier, hitting his head against the headrest before turning his gaze back down to him.


    "Listen, I don''t give a damn about the Hellfire Club or whatever little gathering they''ve got going on. Right now, I''ve got bigger things on my plate," Ricky stated plainly, making it clear that while he was aware of the club''s presence, his current focus was on something far more pressing.


    "But I don''t even know you, and sure, Raven might think highly of you, but for me? You''ve got to prove yourself." Ricky asserted, taking control of the situation and leaving Elias in the backseat.


    "No offense, Elias, but from where I''m sitting, I don''t see any use in having your support," Ricky said, lying through his teeth.


    Deep down, he knew that funneling these mutants into his foundation and assessing their potential for his family was exactly what he needed, which only made him want Elias'' help even more.


    But he wasn''t going to give him that advantage, not a single inch.


    Ricky was determined to break him down, just like Lucky always did with the guys sitting on the other side of the table.


    No sympathy, no concessions but just pure control, and a steady drive to keep Elias guessing.


    "I already have a lot on my plate, and another rich guy with a mysterious background won''t help me." Ricky spread out his hands, making it clear that he wasn''t in the mood for another person like Elias, someone who thought their wealth and shadows held all the answers.


    "So if you really want a partnership for your revenge or schemes, or whatever hard-on you have for that little club, I need proof that you''re actually able to support me, that you''re useful instead of all talk." Ricky''s mobster personality kicked in, his demeanor shifting as the shadow broker appeared by his side.


    Elias, ever the opportunist, could sense the opening Ricky was giving him as his interest piqued, he leaned forward, intrigued by what was propositioned before him.


    "And how would you provide adequate proof that my support is detrimental?" Elias leaned back, gesturing toward Ricky with a thoughtful expression, his tone laced with curiosity with a hidden blade behind his pupils.


    "How about this," Ricky said, his voice low and firm.


    "You say that you have the connections and the wealth, then prove it." Ricky leaned back slightly, the weight of his words hanging in the air.


    It was a risky move, but after Elias had brought up the Hellfire Club, everything had changed.


    Ricky knew the Hellfire Club all too well and only brushed it off to dissuade that he even cared for it since everything before him pointed to Elias being a snake.


    Ricky remembered that club, remembering Abraham who had spoken about it, especially about the woman named Selene.


    The way Abraham talked about her was filled with a mix of awe and fear, and Ricky had learned to listen carefully to those kinds of warnings.


    Selene was powerful enough to make even someone like Abraham still up straight, comparing her almost instantly to Dracula himself.


    But Ricky wasn''t about to let that intimidate him nor would he give Elias a leg up on him.


    No, he was pretending to be uninterested, as if he didn''t care about the power or the influence that came with the Hellfire Club.


    But deep down, he knew how crucial it was.


    Ricky was well aware of his current shortage of mutants and how they had migrated out of New York with the arrival of the mob.


    His plan was to gather more, to expand his reach and power, and if Elias had the right connections, he would want him in his corner.


    But Ricky also knew that desperation was a fatal flaw in negotiations sicne if you came across as too eager, too needy, you lost the game.


    So, he had to be the opposite of desperate, he needed to be so indifferent, so impervious to whatever Elias might offer, that Elias would be the one to scramble for Ricky''s approval, to prove his worth.


    It''s why he became so hostile, showing himself as a brute to dissuade Elias that he had any deeper inquiries about him.


    Ricky wasn''t interested in flaunting his need; instead, he would play it cool, detached, as if he didn''t even care about the opportunity Elias presented.


    The more he made Elias think he wasn''t impressed, the harder Elias would work to prove himself.


    From the first glance, Ricky could tell Elias was a leader, but Ricky understood something most people didn''t: leaders rarely follow.


    The trick wasn''t to command them to follow, but to lead them under the facade of them constantly proving yourself.


    It was how Lucky always kept the Commission in check, by consistently one-upping them or displaying indifference, making them chase his pace in a constant effort to prove they wouldn''t be left behind.


    Ricky wasn''t going to give Elias a chance to lead him, but he was going to put himself in a position where Elias felt compelled to follow.


    The more Ricky showcased his own power, his own worth, the deeper Elias would dig himself into Ricky''s orbit, until he was so entangled, there would be no escape.


    "If the ruling goes in my favor and Dewey is found guilty, I''ll not only accept your support and guidance, but I''ll even kill the bastard who put you in this hole." Ricky said, spreading his arms. Elias''s eyes narrowed, a spark of interest flickering in them as he leaned in, intrigued by the offer.


    "I am to assume there is a price for failing?" Elias pondered out loud, squinting his eyes at Ricky who smiled warmly.


    "Of course, you need to offer collateral in case you fail."


    "Then I have a vast sum-"


    "No, I can tell that money doesn''t mean anything to you," Ricky said, leaning forward, his eyes sharp and a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth as he locked eyes with Elias.


    "I can see that you value your little toys over there and the people who probably worship the ground you stand on." Ricky said, his voice a mix of mockery and understanding since he could relate, valuing people more than money unless the money was too good to be true.


    "The deal is simple," Ricky continued, his tone cold and deliberate.


    "I''ll wait right here, in your little safe space, surrounded by your toys, until the results come in. And if you fail." Ricky let the words trail off, deliberately leaving them vague, leaning back in his chair with a confident smirk.


    "Well, I''m guessing you get the bloody picture if you''ve heard about what happened to the KKK," Ricky hinted, his gaze unwavering as he watched Elias''s eyes squint tighter.


    Elias''s finger tapped lightly on the desk, but the sound was eerily absent, just like the tension building in the room.


    "Deal," Elias said, standing up and extending his hand and Ricky reciprocated the gesture, shaking his hand firmly, sealing their unspoken agreement.


    Ricky wasn''t entirely wrong in his assessment since Elias had spent years hiding, building his strength, and plotting his revenge.


    But even with the power he''d amassed, it had never been enough as he needed someone to really tip the scales, someone who could help him take down the one who had put him in this hole.


    After witnessing a glimpse of Ricky''s potential, Elias had realized he might have found the person he''d been searching for all along.


    Though his stance was still one of wariness, his distrust evident, Elias knew that for now, they shared a common goal, and that was enough.


    "I''ll start immediately," Elias said, his voice calm and resolute and without another word, he turned and walked out of the room, leaving Ricky alone with his thoughts.


    Elias first had to notify his direct line of people, but once that was done, he seemed to disappear into thin air, leaving Ricky in charge.


    The shift was seamless, and soon, the room filled with people approaching him with various inquiries.


    However, as time passed, the buzz of activity gradually subsided and Ricky took the opportunity to slip away from the crowd and walked over to where Raven stood, observing him with quiet intensity.


    "Ricky, let me explain-"


    "You said that this person was someone for my foundation-"


    "I didn''t say that though you just assumed-"


    "Raven." Ricky''s voice was low and serious as he approached her, his hand instinctively pulling her closer.


    "Tell me what''s wrong. Why did you go through all of this?" Ricky asked, his eyes searching hers, knowing that the only thing he''d asked of her was to help with the foundation, not the trial.


    "I-I-"


    SIGH


    "I just wanted to help, alright?" Raven looked away, Ricky singing while caressing her orange hair.


    "I thought that he could help you more than me and-......I don''t know." Raven tried to explain but the words really didn''t make any sense, restuling in her ducking her head.


    The entire situation with the foundation left Raven''s head spinning as the position that had seemed perfectly tailored for her only amplified her sense of inadequacy, reducing her to a fumbling woman in front of Ricky.


    "Come here." Ricky whispered softly, pulling her closer and wrapping his arms around her. Raven slowly nestled into his chest, her body relaxing against him.


    "Part of it might have been my fault," Rickycontinued, his voice gentle but sincere.


    "But when I asked you if you knew anybody, I was sort of joking. I wanted you to say yourself," Ricky explained softly, his lips brushing the top of her head as she squeezed his shirt, her fingers clenching tighter around his back.


    "I wasn''t gonna give that job to anyone other than you. It was always for you," Ricky whispered, his voice filled with sincerity, making it clear that this time, there was no misunderstanding.


    "I want you in my life, and I want you by my side, so just give it to me straight," Ricky changed his tone, sensing Raven''s hesitation as he gently cupped her cheek, lifting her gaze to meet his, his touch tender yet firm.


    "Tell me the truth, tell me how you feel," Ricky urged, his voice soft yet insistent.


    Ricky gazed down at her, his green eyes searching hers, knowing that the future of their relationship would be shaped by the words she was about to speak.


    Honestly, Raven didn''t know if this relationship would work, and she couldn''t predict the path their future would take.


    She had made daring choices in the past, but now, standing in front of Ricky, she was faced with the possibility of giving up centuries of work, everything she had built.


    Despite all the uncertainty, a part of her couldn''t shake the thought of ''what if''.


    What if she made this leap?


    What if, for once, she didn''t overthink and simply allowed herself to trust in what was standing before her?


    What if everything turned out right?


    What if this was the moment she found happiness, and what if everything worked out?


    It was at this moment that Raven would change her future, defy the path laid out for her in the timeline, and go against the grain by uttering three words that would shift everything she would ever know.


    "I love you."


    Author''s Note: Woke up after a nap yesterday to my cover image which had been removed because someone reported me for nudity. A smut fic. Anyways that''s what happened and I''m probably just gonna use the image from scribblehub but if you got any good Raven pics or anything else. Drop em here and I''ll shout you out in the Chapter on saturday if I end up going with it.

 Chapter 139: Chapter 134: Changing History, Changing The Timeline

    Chapter 139: Chapter 134: Changing History, Changing The Timeline


    ?


    1 week later,


    Later that night,


    Twice a week, the Supreme Court justices convened for a private conference, but today was anything but ordinary.


    The room, typically marked by an air of superiority and precision, felt charged with unease and almost paranoia.


    The justices were all haggard and disheveled, their formal appearances a mess as though summoned on short notice.


    Chief Justice Hughes especially, who sat at the head of the table, had his brow furrowed in thought, gnawing absently on his thumb.


    "Then, I suppose that you all received a very-.......incriminating document and or folder-" Louis Brandeis tried to force out a chuckle but it came out hollow, fiddling with his fingers only for one of the men to slam their hand down.


    BAM


    "IT WAS THAT MUTANT, THAT-THAT RICKY LUCIANO!" Devanter bellowed, his voice cracking with fury as his disheveled hair mirrored the chaos of his emotions, while the rage etched across his face barely masked the undercurrent of worry lurking beneath.


    As had happened many times before, the justices found themselves divided by the statement. Each one suddenly possessed a folder stuffed with incriminating documents, evidence so damning it could condemn them all to sentences of twenty years or more.


    "But how could such a youngster find these nuggets, it''s not like we didn''t cover our tracks?" James McReynolds asked, unable to look others in the eye after what his folder said but couldn''t help but voice his disbelief.


    "It don''t matter, he must''ve used his devil powers to conjure the evidence onto our doorsteps." Sutherland''s southern accent rang out, making his stance clear but that only made the others frown.


    ''Ah, you were on the right track, I''ll give you that but as always, you''ve gone and missed the mark.''


    The words suddenly resonated in their minds, surrounding all the justices as if the shadow''s on the wall were whispering to each of them.


    "N-No, please," Chief Justice Hughes stammered, clutching his head as a shiver ran down his spine.


    That voice, it was all too familiar as he silently prayed to God it wasn''t who he feared it might be.


    ''Oh Hughes, still the same as ever.'' Elias chuckled, resting his shadowy hands on his shoulders while appearing behind the Chief Supreme Justice.


    All the Supreme Court justices froze as Elias''s voice slithered directly into their minds, a sinister whisper that rooted them in place.


    His eyes hovered unnervingly above Hughes''s bowed head, their presence a looming shadow of dread.


    "H-Hughes, behind you-"


    "P-P-Please Elias, please I beg you." Hughes'' voice interrupted Sutherland, crumbling under the pressure of his mere tone.


    "Please, I''ll do anything but-"


    ''Oh but I don''t want you to do anything but this.'' Elias'' dark chuckle sounded, forcing goosebumps along each of these old mens skin.


    ''You are all to reject the appeal and rule in favor of Ricky Luciano-''


    "ARE YOU MAD DEVIL!" Sutherland roared, standing up as Hughes shook his head.


    "Sutherland, sit down." Hughes looked up with a grave expression, almost pleading to Sutherland.


    ''Yes Sutherland, listen to your friend.'' Elias'' eyes formed into crescent moons, watching Sutherland rage flourish across him.


    "If you think for a moment that I''ll just sit here and let a devil-1-1-1-1-1-" Sutherland''s southern accent roared out, making a stand but his deviant words faltered, stuttering into a grotesque loop as if caught on a broken record.


    The other justices watched in mounting horror as Sutherland''s body began to convulse violently.


    Blood seeped from his eyes, the crimson streaks a chilling contrast to his ashen face, before he crumpled to his knees at Elias''s feet, a dreadful silence settling over the room.


    ''For all your achievements,'' Elias''s voice slithered through the air, cold and measured.


    ''For all the success you managed to muster in these worthless lives of yours, you still sinned.'' Elias circled Sutherland, the justices now trapped in his unyielding presence, his steps deliberate, like a predator stalking its prey.


    ''Yet, for everything you are," Elias continued, his eyes glinting with malice.


    ''There are parts of you that you''ve tucked away, buried deep beneath all that shining success.'' Elias''s voice grew lower, each word a knife twisting in the air as he made his way around


    them, the justices now prisoners of his every move.


    ''Parts that can''t be seen by the light, that must always remain in the shadows.'' Elias murmured calmly, his tone low and deliberate as he moved with a quiet, unhurried grace, pausing once he stood behind Hughes.


    ''It''s unfortunate, truly.'' Elias'' voice remained composed, almost detached.


    ''Because for every figure, there is an equal, stretching shadow. And I have lingered in each and every one.'' Elias'' words were a soft, chilling confession, each syllable carrying the weight of unspoken horrors.


    ''Whenever you looked around, thinking you were alone, I was always the shadow on the wall. And when you thought you''d escaped, I was there, watching your departure as the distance grew between us.'' Elias chuckled, knowing each and every one of these mens deepest secrets. "Elias, please, this will end some of our careers-"


    ''Then it''s only fitting, I was the one to build you up so it''s only right that I should be the one to tear you down.'' Elias side-eyed Hughes, watching him duck his head at his gaze.


    ''If the decision isn''t made today, and isn''t announced tomorrow, then all of your secrets will leave those shadows of yours and everyone will see who all of you really are.'' Elias'' slow hum sounded, his figure departing towards the door before he suddenly stopped as they all watched him leave.''


    ''But you could be heroes.'' Elias said, his voice almost gentle, like a flicker of hope in the


    darkness.


    ''Try to confess before it''s too late, and perhaps save yourselves from the decision you believe to be wrong.'' Elias paused, turning away from them, his words lingering in the air.


    ''But that was if you hadn''t killed, stabbed, lied, and sullied your morals for the seat you now occupy.'' Elias left them with those final, haunting words.


    He offered them a chance at redemption, to go against him, but what difference could it make after everything they had done to get here?


    "Chief Justice, what do we do?" Justice Pierce Butler asked, his voice tight with uncertainty.


    Hughes took a long, steadying breath, his fingers gripping the edge of the table as he adjusted himself, the weight of the moment pressing down on him before giving into it all.


    "We keep the seats we occupy now and vote in favor for Ricky Luciano."


    Next Day,


    "If you''re just tuning in, let me break down the latest story that''s taken hold of the American mind," a radio host blared from the car''s speakers, eager to catch any potential listener.


    "What began as a simple civil case has now spiraled into a growing sensation, with the Supreme Court justices set to make an announcement today." The radio host continued, his words over the top and exaggerated to keep listeners hooked onto every word. "Ricky Luciano, an honorary bishop of the Vatican and a native of New York, has claimed he was subjected to an unfair search and seizure at the border." The radio host continued.


    "The District Attorney, Tommy Dewey, responded by saying that his actions were taken in the interest of national security, arguing that Luciano''s mutant abilities posed a significant


    threat."


    "At first, this case seemed destined to be swept under the rug. But then, the defense attorney, a Black boy named Thomas Marshall, argued that Luciano''s search was unlawful, citing his status as a mutant as the sole basis for the treatment."


    "The argument was swiftly dismissed by Hawkins, who insisted that Ricky Luciano himself posed a clear danger to the American people, and that Dewey had every right to conduct the


    search."


    "The case took an unexpected turn with the shocking revelation that Dewey and Hawkins had mistakenly set fire to a club meeting instead of Ricky Luciano''s residence," the host


    continued.


    "Now convicted and awaiting trial, Dewey went on record blaming Luciano, but in a twist, Hawkins confessed to the crime before taking his own life."


    "The jury, finding Luciano to be the victim of Dewey''s cruelty, awarded him a staggering $25 million. But just as the case seemed settled, the Supreme Court accepted an appeal, ensuring


    that this saga is far from over."


    "However, just a week before today''s ruling, Ricky Luciano made a bold proclamation. He


    revealed that he had dreams of serving in our great nation''s military, wanting to contribute like any other American and protect our lands. But, he expressed disheartenment at the idea that, because he was born a mutant, he might never get that chance."


    "He even went as far as to say that if he won any money from this case, it would go directly to a foundation dedicated to helping mutants better integrate into the American way of life." "Now, listeners, we have multiple callers on the line eager to share their thoughts on the growing precedent this case is setting." The radio host then gave the listeners a treat,


    aligning some callers waiting on multiple telephone lines.


    "Caller from Mississippi, you have the floor."


    "Thanks, Jim, big fan of the show!" the caller from Mississippi exclaimed excitedly, barely able to believe he was actually on his favorite radio program.


    "Now, I just don''t get why this boy has to go and tarnish the way of life. I mean, that Dewey


    feller, although a murderer, saw a threat and tried to do right by his country!" The caller from Mississippi showed his outrage, taking Dewey''s side since he seemed like an upright figure compared to Ricky Luciano.


    "Thank you caller, next caller from all the way in Oregon."


    "Hello Jim, thank you so so much for having me on and all I like to say is that I really feel for


    this poor boy," the caller from Oregon expressed their guilt, immediately taking the side of


    Ricky. "That harsh man had no right to do all of that to that young man and what''s more, he wanted


    to serve our country." The Oregon caller sighed heavily, thinking it was noble for Ricky to want to serve his beloved country.


    "Not many people want to do that, and I think it''s a selfless thing to even donate all that


    money to others like him." The Oregon caller showed his stance, feeling nothing but empathy


    for Ricky and his cause.


    "Thank you caller, next from Georgia."


    "Honestly Jim, I don''t see what the big fuss is and why it''s all I''m reading about," the caller


    from Georgia scoffed, clearly annoyed that it had taken up so much of the front page of his morning newspaper recently.


    "It''s cut and dry, and this much money is absurd. That should be used to fund actual programs


    instead of giving it away." The caller from Georgia sneered at it all, thinking this entire trial


    was a pointless endeavor.


    "Next caller, Arkansas."


    "They had no right to search him, that Ricky Luciano is an american and he shouldn''t have


    been treated any less, and what''s more is that he''s a man of god, what more can you ask?" The


    caller from Arkansas couldn''t help but be shocked, showing his disbelief and taking the side


    of the lord.


    "Next caller, New York."


    "That cop went too far ya hear me, Ricky Luciano ain''t just a mutant but a good italian man. People don''t know crap about what he did for the neighborhoods and what''s more, when he left, he left for god, FOR JESUS CHRIST, ain''t nuttin you can tell me that takes away from how much I respect Ricky Luciano." The caller from New York almost yelled into the phone,


    expressing his side clearly.


    "Next caller, Ohio."


    "You see, Jim, mutants are a small bunch now, but what happens when we get thousands of


    them crawling the streets, waving their hands and using these devil powers of theirs to just make things that shouldn''t happen appear? If you ask me, we should have laws in place for


    people like them." The caller from Ohio grew more heated with every passing word.


    "Next caller, Louisiana."


    "I honestly don''t care, I want to hear about how the Yankees lost."


    "Next caller Virginia."


    "It just needs to end, I''m tired and I don''t get why this is all I''m reading about."


    The words poured out of the radio, each one cutting through the air as Ricky Luciano sat in the car, his eyes fixed on the imposing fac?ade of the Supreme Court.


    "Do you think it was wise to not take this into your own hands?" Chester asked, his voice laced with a hint of mockery as Ricky frowned upon hearing it out loud instead of in his head. "No, in fact, it seems pretty stupid from an outside perspective to just trust some guy I barely met." Ricky''s words were completely self-deprecating, clicking his tongue at his own actions. "Then why did you do it?" Chester asked, his tone probing. Ricky paused for a moment,


    rubbing his chin thoughtfully.


    "Cause I can''t do everything myself, I can''t just use that genhutsua of yours and just will everyone my way, at least it would take too long." Ricky leaned back, mispronouncing genjutsu while crossing his leg as he looked at Chester who was silent.


    "The guys I have around me aren''t good with stuff like this, aren''t able to go behind the


    scenes and pull strings without cutting one or two," Ricky sighed, brooding over the events ahead.


    "I need people around me that can do stuff like that, and although I don''t trust that guy as far as I can throw him, it''s impressive what he''s built without anyone even knowing." Ricky admitted, taken aback by how functional the sanctuary was and how well hidden it remained.


    "And although I don''t really know the Hellfire Club, I know that Selene is a part of it," Ricky sighed, annoyance creeping into his voice as he thought about the forces hiding and observing him from the shadows.


    "Selene?"


    "Evidently, she''s this busty chick that castrates guys," Ricky clarified, as all of his familiars


    shivered at the thought.


    "So, what are you going to do, other than constantly yapper on?" Garfield sighed from the


    backseat, scratching his belly.


    "Well I had a couple of ideas, one of them putting you on a diet." Ricky casually retorted, reclining his seat back


    "Diet?!" Garfield shot to his little stubby feat, exasperated at the actual thought but Ricky ignored him.


    "The second is to see how this plays out and if he comes through," Ricky said, tapping on the


    car as he stared at the rearview mirror, his gaze fixed on the courthouse ahead.


    "What if you lose, what if-"


    "If I lose, then I''ll work around the government, but let''s worry about it if that even happens." Ricky paused, glancing over at Chester as Marshall slowly walked out and gestured


    for Ricky to come in.


    "Good luck," Garfield hissed out, throwing a cheese puff into his mouth as Ricky leaned back


    to flick his forehead before getting out of the car.


    "Luck is for chumps." Ricky stated with a cheeky smile, stepping out of the car and leaving the


    three of them behind.


    "Why does he always say that?" Garfield asked, licking his fingers as Chester shot him a


    disgusted look. Garfield didn''t seem to care, continuing to rub his paws on the leather while being too lazy to


    just go back and actually read the story.


    "It''s a long story-"


    "Then out with it already, it''s not like we have anything better to do while we''re here," Garfield lazily replied, lounging and turning onto his back as his tail flicked to the side as he


    settled in, clearly not wanting to read but preferring to just listen.


    "Do you want to-" Alexander asked, side-eyed the fat cat before Chester immediately


    nodded.


    "Yes," Chester replied, crouching down as Alexander hopped onto his back and with a powerful leap, they took off into the air, leaving Garfield behind, still munching on cheese puffs.


    "And then there was one."


    Meanwhile in the courthouse,


    Ricky walked in, dressed in his fine Italian suit, with Marshall by his side as they arrived at


    their seats.


    "Nervous?" Ricky leaned over and asked, clearly noticing Marshall fidgeting in his chair. "Is it obvious?" Marshall replied, his voice betraying his unease as Ricky chuckled, reaching into his coat pocket and pulling out a flask that once belonged to Abraham.


    "Here, loosen the edge-woah there big guy." Ricky was about to recommend only for


    Marshall to swipe his flask from his hand.


    Cough


    Cough


    "Ease off the throttle there, here." Ricky said, handing the flask to Marshall and giving him a


    reassuring pat on the back as Marshall leaned back, taking a deep breath to steady himself.


    It was then that Dewey walked in, his hands cuffed, flanked by a district attorney whose unimpressed gaze locked onto Ricky. "Is that the sound of justice I hear? It must be, if it''s the sound of your handcuffs clinking


    together." Ricky leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with a certain satisfaction as he watched Dewey, whose tired eyes told a story of his own misery.


    But instead of responding, Dewey simply took a seat, his silence more telling than any words


    could be.


    "You''re kidding. No quip about how I''m some evil, sadistic man?" Ricky''s voice dripped with disbelief as he leaned forward, seeing the man before him so utterly broken, stripped of any bravado, and simply hollow.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky couldn''t help himself, his laughter spilling out uncontrollably as he reveled in his own amusement.


    But Dewey, sitting across from him, barely seemed to notice as his usual resolve was gone, replaced by a hollow emptiness as he stared into the distance, his once unshakeable now reduced to nothing more than a vacant expression.


    conviction


    FLASHBACK


    "Honey, is that you?" Dewey muttered, standing up and pressing his hand against the cold


    glass.


    He had been transferred to a detention center after the security risk posed by Ricky Luciano,


    and now, the isolation seemed to gnaw at him.


    Before Dewey, a smile spread across his face as he saw Frances, but it quickly faded when he


    noticed her downcast expression.


    She didn''t offer a greeting, just silently walked over to the chair and sat down, her posture


    stiff and distant, as if unsure of how to bridge the gap between them.


    "Oh, thank God you''re here," Dewey muttered, his words coming out in a broken, erratic


    pattern.


    Everything about him seemed so different from the man she had once married, his voice shakier, his posture hunched, and his entire demeanor in stark contrast to the confident figure


    he had always claimed to be.


    "Listen to me, Ricky Luciano-"


    Sniff


    Frances couldn''t even bring herself to look at him anymore as her body trembled, tears


    welling in her eyes as she stared down at her ring.


    Slowly, she began to take it off, each movement making Dewey freeze in place, his breath catching in his throat.


    "N-No, wait Frances, you''re the last person I can hold onto to and-" "Tommy, I-I''m leaving you." Frances said softly, her voice laced with guilt as she finally


    looked up.


    Dewey''s entire body trembled, his eyes wide as his face drained of color, the weight of her


    words sinking in.


    "W-Wha-"


    "What are you talking about, Frances? What do you mean!" Dewey stood up abruptly, his eyes


    wild with a mix of anger and fear, his hand pressing against the glass.


    "I''ve found someone else, someone who cares about me and my passions, someone who treats me like more than just a housewife." Frances clutched the ends of her skirt, the guilt weighing heavily on her, but there was no turning back now and despite the pain, she knew


    this was the right thing to do for herself.


    "I''m sorry," Frances whispered, her voice barely audible as she lowered her head slightly, her


    heart aching as she stood up.


    Turning her back to Dewey, she could feel the weight of his heartbroken gaze on her as his face, once so familiar, now reflected nothing but pain and disbelief.


    "Frances you can''t leave me, you''re all that I have left, FRANCES!" FLASHBACK END


    "Wow, it''s almost like you''re crumbling before me." Ricky''s words lingered in the air, cutting


    through the silence as Dewey''s mind raced.


    Dewey suddenly glanced up, seeing the wide grin on Ricky''s face, a smile that reveled in the


    despair Dewey had found himself drowning in.


    "I almost want to PAINT your expression right now." Ricky emphasized one particular word,


    making Dewey''s breath hitch as he stood up only for the supreme court justices to file in.


    "ALL RISE, THE SUPREME COURT IS RECONVENING!" The bailiff called out, his voice echoing through the courtroom.


    Ricky stood up, his posture sharp, and turned towards the justices, a calm yet expectant look


    in his eyes.


    Hughes was the last to enter, clearly rattled as his gaze met his gaze only for Ricky to offer


    him a warm smile, one that sent a chill creeping down Hughes'' spine.


    All the justices wore similar expressions, their faces a mix of weariness and contemplation.


    Elias had pulled every card he''d accumulated over the years to prove Ricky''s value, and his


    gamble had paid off in a spectacular way.


    Hughes surveyed the crowd that had gathered, each individual waiting with bated breath for the decision that would alter the course of precedent for the next two decades. "We, the Supreme Court, have reached a decision in the case of Luciano v. Dewey," Hughes announced, his voice steady but weighed down by the gravity of the moment as he slowly pulled the paper from his folder, the very same one that held the decision to everything Ricky


    had invested his time into as of late.


    The other justices, unable to raise their heads, cast their eyes downward in shame, unable to


    look the people before them in the eyes.


    "We have found that Ricky Luciano, a mutant, had his natural rights as an American citizen violated," Hughes declared, his voice steady but heavy with the weight of his words as he closed his eyes for a brief moment, fully aware that this decision would forever define his


    tenure on the Supreme Court.


    The courtroom fell into stunned silence, every person present gasping as the implications of


    the ruling sank in.


    Raven''s breath caught in her throat, the words of the ruling striking her like a bolt of


    lightning.


    She stood slowly, unable to fully process what she was witnessing as this was a moment she


    had never anticipated, one that didn''t even make it into Destiny''s book. She believed in Ricky but seeing is easier than hearing about it as her eyes shifted to him,


    whose arrogant smile seemed to stretch wider with the weight of the victory. "In light of this revelation, the Supreme Court has decided to award only 20 million of the original 25 million, with the funds being donated to Ricky Luciano''s new foundation at his own request. That is all." Hughes concluded, his voice steady as he delivered the final word


    with the room falling into stunned silence, the weight of the decision settling over everyone like a heavy cloud.


    As Hughes stood, the first domino of consequences began to fall, and the future seemed


    uncertain for all involved as the timeline completely distorted at this moment.


    "WHAT DO YOU MEAN!"


    "ARE YOU SERIOUS!"


    "THIS IS SURREAL!"


    "GODDAMNIT, MY BOOKIES GONNA HAVE MY BALLS!" The atmosphere in the courthouse shifted abruptly as those who were meant to remain


    respectful broke into a roar of disbelief.


    Gasps and murmurs filled the air, the shock of the ruling spreading like wildfire as even the government officials, who had long anticipated Ricky Luciano''s downfall, were stunned. This wasn''t supposed to be a moment of public execution, this was supposed to be the day


    Ricky''s name was buried in disgrace.


    Yet, instead of falling from grace, he had risen, his fate now forever intertwined with history,


    and the power of the ruling echoing far beyond the courthouse walls. "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Marshall started tumbling out a barrage of laughter, hugging


    Ricky as he started to tear up.


    "WE REALLY DID IT, WE DID IT!" Marshall yelled out, jumping up and down as Ricky merely


    looked at Dewey.


    In that moment, Ricky''s promise had materialized in full force, and Dewey, once confident


    and brimming with authority, now crumbled under the weight of his downfall. His body trembled as he was escorted out, the jeers of the mob growing louder with each


    step.


    The very people who had once upheld his image now looked upon him with disdain, eager to


    tear him down as they had once built him up as Dewey was left with nothing, not even his own


    pride.


    Amidst the chaos, Ricky stood at the center, a figure of both admiration and contempt,


    completely unfazed by the frenzy surrounding him.


    The media swarmed, microphones thrust forward, cameras clicking rapidly, lightbulbs


    shattering, and all eager to capture a moment that would go down in history.


    But Ricky walked past them all with a calm composure, his gaze never faltering as he surveyed


    the


    crowd.


    However, with everything swarming around him, his smile remained, knowing full well that


    today, the world had witnessed the rise of Ricky Luciano, not just a man, but an empire in the


    making.


    BAM


    "MR. LUCIANO, WHAT DOES THIS VICTORY MEAN FOR YOU!"


    "DID YOU AT ALL EXPECT THIS!"


    "WHAT DOES THIS MEAN NOT AS RICKY LUCIANO, BUT AS A MUTANT!"


    The questions erupted the moment Ricky threw open the doors of the courthouse, flashes


    from cameras spiraling in every direction, all eyes fixed on him at the center of it all. There was no hesitation, no retreat, only Ricky standing tall, arms spread wide, basking in the


    sweet, intoxicating taste of unbridled victory.


    Ricky wasn''t the type of guy who was naturally great at planning, and he was still figuring out


    what it truly meant to lead.


    But this victory? This felt different.


    It was sweet in a way that only those who''ve worked tirelessly for something can understand.


    Ricky had planned it all out, spoken confidently about his win, made every necessary


    arrangement, and then, when it mattered most, he won. Raven stood to the side, a warm smile spreading across her face as she watched him.


    She stood amidst the crowd, letting Ricky have his moment to relish in his victory, feeling a


    quiet sense of pride.


    And then, as if drawn to her, his eyes found hers, and the connection between them was


    undeniable.


    "No-"


    "YES!" Ricky laughed, his voice full of triumph as he pushed through the crowd.


    His eyes instantly locked onto Raven, recognizing her in disguise without a second thought


    and in one swift motion, he yanked her out of the crowd, a grin plastered on his face. "R-Ricky, what are you doing!?" Raven hurriedly asked, anxious as she now stood amidst the


    barrage of camera flashes.


    "Don''t tell me you thought for a second that I wasn''t going to blow this entire thing out of proportion?" Ricky whispered gently into Raven''s ear, his voice laced with playful mischief as


    he pulled her closer, forcing her to stand by his side amidst it all. "Ladies and gentlemen, this beautiful and captivating woman is none other than Raven Darkholme, and she will be heading the foundation that I''m creating!" Ricky announced, his


    voice carrying across the area as he gestured toward her with a sweeping motion. His smile widened as every pair of eyes in the crowd shifted to focus on her, the area buzzing


    with excitement at the unexpected reveal.


    Ricky wanted to chain her by his side, but that meant more than just capturing her heart, it


    required the recognition of the people, the kind of support that would bind them in a way


    nothing else could.


    This, Ricky knew, was the exact moment he''d been waiting for. As the weight of the choice settled over Raven, she turned back toward him, her eyes locking


    with his, the green of his gaze steady and intense as he could see the conflict in her, the


    hesitation before she made her decision.


    Sigh


    With that soft exhale, Raven made her choice.


    Raven stood taller in that moment, the air around her shifting with her white and blonde hair rippling in the wind, transitioning into a cascade of vibrant blue skin and fiery orange hair.


    It was then that she revealed her true self to the world, standing proudly next to Ricky.


    GASP


    "A mutant!"


    "Thanks, Captain Obvious!" Ricky called back to him, resting his hand on Raven''s shoulder and giving it a gentle rub.


    "Go on, tell me how much you adore and love me," Ricky whispered in her ear, earning a scoff


    from her, though she couldn''t help but smile.


    "I know none of you know me, and that''s fine, but I can assure all the mutants out there that I


    will pour everything I have into making this world just a little bit better for mutant kind. Thank you!" Raven announced, her voice strong and commanding as she then grabbed Ricky, pulling him towards the car, her grip firm as the crowd watched them leave. "Wow, so powerful~" Ricky placed a hand over his heart, feigning being taken aback by her


    words, yet his face was adorned with a sleazy smile, clearly enjoying the attention.


    "WAIT, MR. LUCIANO-"


    "IS THAT MY LAWYER WHO MADE THIS ENTIRE WIN POSSIBLE, THURGOOD MARSHALL!" Ricky''s voice boomed across the crowd, dramatically pointing his finger towards Marshall as


    he walked out of the courthouse, essentially throwing him under the bus. "Huh?" Marshall blurted, caught off guard as the reporters all turned their attention to him,


    then back to Ricky, who had already closed the door and was casually holding out his thumb in a mock salute.


    "You did great, buddy!" Ricky yelled, slamming the door behind him as the car sped off.


    Everyone froze as the hungry reporters slowly shifted their focus, zeroing in on Marshall,


    their cameras and microphones ready to pounce.


    "W-Wait, WAIT!"


    Meanwhile, in the speeding car, Asterion hummed a tune, tapping the steering wheel in


    rhythm.


    Over the past few weeks, he''d grown to quite love driving, the motion of the road under his


    wheels offering a strange sense of freedom.


    His fingers drummed along to the beat, a subtle but steady flow of contentment filling the air


    as the car sliced through the streets.


    "Ow~" Ricky playfully said as Raven smacked him repeatedly, his laughter echoing through


    the car.


    "Y-You''re a jerk, you set me up!" Raven blushed, her face flushed with a mix of frustration and embarrassment as she knew he was playing with her emotions and desires like a fiddle.


    But despite her frustration, there was an undeniable pull, a part of her that couldn''t entirely


    resist him, and that realization only made her more vexed, along with annoyed


    "I know, I know, I''m just the worst," Ricky said, resting his head on her shoulder and pulling


    her closer, making Raven scoff, trying to push him off, but the closeness felt too familiar, too


    comfortable.


    "But I''m your worst-"


    "Alright, stop with the cheesy lines," Raven said, pushing his face away as she struggled to


    hold back a laugh as Ricky, unfazed, kissed her palm.


    "Seriously, did you really believe that I would hang you out to dry after all those sweet


    words." Ricky asked, showing his smile in full view while


    "Sweet words can be hollow-"


    "Not mine and god did I fill them-"


    placing her hand on his chin.


    "RICKY!" Raven blushed, smacking him playfully as he leaned forward, grinning mischievously before she fell back, looking up at him hovering above her being. Her orange hair cascaded around her blushing face as Ricky''s hands gently caressed her cheek,


    a warm and genuine smile spreading across his face.


    "I''m sorry." Ricky''s voice softened, his words carrying sincerity.


    Raven pursed her lips, a mix of frustration and understanding in her expression, before she let


    out a small


    sigh. "I forgive you." Raven murmured, her voice soft as Ricky leaned down, pressing a warm kiss


    to her lips as she instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer.


    "Uh Ricky, what should I do?" Asterion asked from the front seat, Ricky turning his eyes only


    for his head to jerk up.


    There in front of him were numerous black cars blocking his path, but Ricky simply cracked a


    smile before leaning over and pecking Raven on the cheek.


    "Take Raven back, I''ll meet you guys there." Ricky patted Asterion''s shoulder, then opened


    the door while Raven glanced back, adjusting one of the laces on her dress as she watched him


    step out.


    "Ricky, who is that?" Raven asked, her gaze shifting toward the figure without permission as Ricky adjusted his tie.


    "The puppet master." Ricky chuckled, leaving his words vague and cryptic as he closed the door behind him and walked forward.


    The car at the center had its back window rolled down, and Ricky peered inside, locking eyes


    with the very man who had orchestrated everything that had led him to this moment.


    "Mr. President, if it isn''t my honor to meet the man behind it all," Ricky chuckled, leaning


    through the window to face Franklin, who merely gave him a cold, fleeting glance.


    "Get in."


    Author''s Note: Saw your comments, I saw your pictures, there good but I''m lazy so I''ll make


    my decision tommorrow because i just found out I can''t even put any cover until Saturday


    because of a restriction placed on my ''inappropriate'' image of a story that litearlly depicts raw skin on skin slapping.

 Chapter 140: Chapter 135: Mr. President

    Chapter 140: Chapter 135: Mr. President


    ?


    "Holy sh*t, your whiskey''s way better than my pop''s," Ricky exclaimed, recoiling slightly from the burn of the drink.


    Ricky inspected the bottle for a moment before shamelessly swiping it right under the president''s nose as they drove in slow, deliberate circles around the block.


    Franklin D. Roosevelt wasn''t just any figure, not just any politician, and certainly not just any president.


    He was a steadfast and resolute leader, fully aware that the upcoming years would define America forever.


    This awareness drove his relentless involvement in every sphere imaginable, understanding that the nation needed firm guidance.


    To put it simply, he was a control freak, determined to steer the country in the right direction, his direction.


    But to reach that point, to wield such immense power, it was nearly impossible for anyone, let alone someone like him, to loosen their grip on the reins which was why his gaze had turned to the man before him.


    In stark contrast, Ricky exuded a carefree demeanor, living fully in the moment and planning only as far ahead as the next month.


    Franklin didn''t respect him for that, not in the slightest and yet, he could no longer dismiss him, either as Ricky had proven that he could play at Franklin''s level, and win.


    "You''re such a crude, vulgar person," Franklin said bluntly, his tone laced with unfiltered disdain as he made no effort to conceal his animosity, laying his thoughts bare from the start.


    "Coming here-"


    "And what? Wiping my ass with your goodwill?" Ricky interrupted with a crude laugh, his words dripping with such a vulgar spite.


    "Walking into your house, your domain, with my shoes off and planting my crusty toes everywhere, kicking them up and wiggling them around," Ricky said with a sly grin, leaning in closer as Franklin''s expression grew stern, sensing that Ricky''s words were building toward something far more pointed.


    "It doesn''t feel so good when someone comes into your house and fcks up your sht, doesn''t it?" Ricky asked, a wide grin spreading across his face before Franklin''s expression darkened as he slowly nodded, the meaning behind Ricky''s words sinking in.


    "Listen Teddy-"


    "Wrong Roosevelt-"


    "Whatever, listen." Ricky interrupted the president, shaking his hand at him before leaning back with his whisky in hand.


    "You know that deep, aching pit of hatred you probably have for me after everything I did." Ricky gestured to him, pointing glass towards him before raising it up to take a sip.


    "I want you to remember that feeling, this feeling, and hold onto it the next time you come to my house and try to f*ck up my sh*t like you were doing," Ricky said with a laugh, his tone dripping with mockery as he watched as the president''s face grew even darker, the weight of the thinly veiled threat sinking in.


    "I''m not the type of person to let things go," Ricky said, his voice low and deliberate, placing the glass to the side as the ice cubs swirled.


    "I''m the type of person who blows it out of proportion, and I''ll go above and beyond to drag you down to my level." Ricky''s words caused Franklin''s mind to flash to Dewey, the prosecutor whose fall from grace had been so sharp and unforgiving.


    He remembered how Dewey had once been a good-hearted man, only to become something darker, something unrecognizable.


    "Because if I''m gonna lose, gonna suffer, then you can bet your ass that you''re gonna suffer with me," Ricky finished, his eyes locking with Franklin''s as he made it clear that if he went down, he wouldn''t go alone.


    He''d burn everything down if he had to, and he would never let Franklin walk away, unscathed, into the sunset, while Ricky would be the one to pay the price.


    "What is this all really about, Ricky?" Franklin calmly asked Ricky, gaining the young man''s attention as he set down his drink.


    "I think we both know you don''t care about America, mutants, or anything that isn''t your family," Franklin said, his tone smooth as he watched Ricky trace his finger along the glass.


    Ricky''s smile brightened, knowing that he hit the nail on the head as the words made the conversation flow much more easily, revealing the truth behind Ricky''s motivations and skipping past all the bullsh*t.


    "Because I''m not going away, Mr. President, I''m just getting started." Ricky said, his gaze unwavering as he met Franklin''s eyes as his words were sharp, making it clear that this was only the beginning.


    "I''m gonna become a powerful man, and I think it''s time you get on board, rather than constantly trying to block my way," Ricky said, sighing as he leaned back while Franklin''s face remained unreadable.


    "Oh, don''t give me that look," Ricky continued, his voice dripping with a sleazy confidence. "You can''t honestly believe I don''t know you''re behind Joe, pulling the little strings like some sort of puppet master." Ricky dangled his fingertips in front of the president, a clear gesture showing that he had known for quite some time.


    "Just like you, I know what''s going on in my city, and much like you, I don''t like the stink wafting in," Ricky joked, gesturing toward Franklin, pretending to wave his hand over to him as if cutting the cheese.


    "Then I''m sure you''re well aware that I''m faced with the question of why you went in front of the American people and told them that you not only wanted to be a pillar of mutantkind, start a foundation, and join my army," Franklin said, his gaze steady and piercing but no matter how intense it was, the weight of his words simply bounced off Ricky.


    "Can I be honest with you, Franky?" Ricky leaned back, his tone casual but laced with defiance, clearly stepping over the line of respect as if testing the waters.


    "Please." Franklin''s eyebrow twitched as he took a deep breath, gesturing toward Ricky, giving him permission to speak freely.


    "Because a war is coming."


    "A war that both you and I know will suck you in, no matter how hard you try to keep your feet out of its murky waters." Ricky''s words hung in the air, leaving Franklin completely silent, as if he recognized the truth in them, or at least found them convincing.


    "Has the Vatican informed you of the severity in Europe?" Franklin asked, his gaze fixed on the tinted windows, as though he were asking without truly expecting an answer and Ricky, on the other hand, spread his arms out, as if to demonstrate his own understanding of the


    situation.


    "I am the Black Knight, after all," Ricky said, his words hanging in the air without a direct confirmation, yet acknowledging that they both knew there was some truth to it.


    Immediately, Franklin''s gaze snapped to Ricky as the CIA had gathered extensive intel on the Black Knight and the immense power he wielded.


    More importantly, there was the undeniable fact that Ricky was the one responsible for slaying Dracula, an act that had marked him not only as a threat, but as a worldwide one. "What do you want?" Franklin seemingly asked without not entirely agreeing.


    "I want to be an officer in the military, and I want to earn that position not through four years of boarding school, but through quick and direct commander training," Ricky said, pointing at Franklin as the president remained silent as Ricky continued, undeterred by the lack of


    response.


    "Before you say anything, really take into account that by putting myself in the military, I''m almost on your side in a way that you''ll really want me as a friend," Ricky said, his eyes dark, showing that he wasn''t about to relent.


    In all honesty, it might seem like a bad idea to let Ricky into the military, but for Franklin, it


    was almost beneficial.


    From his observations, people like Ricky were impossible to control; spontaneous individuals acted on impulse, and impulses could shift in an instant.


    But once he entered the military, it would be just a little easier to manage.


    The entire military was under Franklin''s control, and he''d much rather keep Ricky under his watchful eyes than let him loose, gallivanting across Europe on some crusade. Franklin remained quiet for a long time, pondering the reality of the situation, before resigning himself to the idea of having Ricky within his reach, rather than allowing him to slip


    away.


    "Why should I not only let you into my academy, my army, my government, and my United States?" Franklin asked, his tone calculating, as he leaned forward, eager to hear Ricky''s answer while the latter merely smiled in response, unfazed by the question. "Because let''s be real, you need me," Ricky laughed, pointing to himself with a smirk as Franklin raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued, but remained silent, waiting for Ricky to


    elaborate.


    In all honesty, Franklin didn''t need Ricky, but no one ever truly needs anything.


    It''s the illusion that''s given to you, the fear that haunts you, that makes you compelled to go


    the extra mile.


    That''s why Ricky, with Shadow Broker slowly appearing by his side, who had always been lurking in the background, waiting for the right moment, finally made his move.


    "This war, what you''re about to go up against, the powers that lie beneath, is something you could never imagine." Ricky first appealed to that fear, sinking his words deep into it, embedding the train of thought into its murky waters, knowing it would fester there.


    "The people, the beings, pulling the strings of the Reich are something you''ve only scratched the surface of." Ricky then started to engrain a sense of belief, subtly guiding the narrative in a direction that would make Franklin question everything he thought he knew. "For those people and the strengths you can''t even fathom, you''ll need someone like me,


    someone who can go toe to toe on those front lines. But most of all, you''re going to need my power." Ricky finally revealed his hand, positioning himself as essential, inflating his value beyond what it truly was, making it clear he believed his presence was the key to Franklin''s


    success.


    "We both know you''re gonna just stall, until you''re sure you have a chance, but let''s be real, I bet that think tank of a government is trying to find any way they can to rival whatever Germany has." Ricky smirked, knowing that his words hit closer to the truth than Franklin would like to admit.


    "If you''re going to need as much firepower as you can get, why not accept mutants? Why not


    roll the dice on me?" Ricky''s tone was laced with a challenge, his eyes locking onto Franklin''s as if daring him to refuse.


    Franklin''s silence spoke volumes, his mind clearly turning over the implications of what Ricky


    had just said.


    He was well aware of the Nazi powers looming in the shadows of Hitler, the unseen hands that had their fingers in the Reich''s operation.


    He knew, in a way, that Ricky was right, mutants could be the edge he needed, a resource too


    powerful to ignore.


    But what''s worse, if a war broke out, could Franklin afford to not keep an eye on Ricky? "Fine," Franklin said, his voice steady but firm, knowing this wasn''t the first or last time he''d


    made a deal with a devil.


    "You will be admitted into the officer program when you submit an application, after you get a high school diploma that is." Franklin spoke of the bare minimum, his words making Ricky''s eyebrow twitch.


    "So, I guess you can say we''re partners now," Ricky laughed, nudging the president lightly as


    Franklin scowled, clearly unamused by the casual tone, but there was no denying the weight of the agreement hanging in the air.


    "Now that you had one of my men locked up and the key thrown away, I guess I''ll have to use


    what I can," Franklin said, his gaze steady, resolute almost before getting to the main point.


    "But there is one more thing." Franklin looked at Ricky, who was already waiting for this moment, knowing something else was coming.


    "What are you going to do about the scene in New York?"


    "I''m sure you''re clever enough to know that all the families are on edge and teetering on the


    brink of a full-on war with one another, what is it you really want, Ricky Luciano." Franklin asked, leaning in towards Ricky who smiled warmly, as if already knowing where this conversation was headed.


    "Isn''t it obvious? I want you and the government to turn a blind eye to me completely


    eviscerating the families, as a gesture of goodwill," Ricky laughed, his words bloodthirsty as Franklin had a deadpan expression.


    "In return, the family will look not only favorable towards you, but your next campaign." Ricky offered, Franklin pondering once more before looking out the window.


    "If you think I am ignorant to the deal Lucky has with the High Table, then don''t count me as


    a fool yet, but either way, I have no choice but to accept," Franklin said, his words leaving Ricky shocked as he raised an eyebrow.


    "What deal?" Ricky suddenly asked, unable to hold himself back as Franklin side-eyed him


    with a raised eyebrow.


    "He never told you?" Franklin grinned slightly, showing some surprise while waving his hand


    in the air along with his next words.


    "Well, I guess that should be resolved between Father and Son."


    "Now, please get out of my car." Franklin had the car stopped, gesturing towards the door as


    Ricky looked a little annoyed.


    "I''m taking the whiskey and this really nice glass, ''cause I like the way the ice clinks into it."


    Ricky noted to Franklin before shutting the door behind him, leaving the president staring


    straight ahead.


    Sigh


    "I actually really liked that glass." Walking back to the crummy motel, the one without any reporters lingering around, Ricky


    spotted Jake sitting at a table, a cigarette dangling from his fingers as he flipped through a


    law book.


    Clink


    Ricky sat the whiskey down in front of Jake, the bottle clinking softly against the table as Jake


    flinched, his eyes flickering from the glass to Ricky''s face, not even noticing that he had walked in before the interruption.


    "Whatcha ya got there?" Ricky asked, sipping the whiskey lightly as Jake let out a sheepish


    laugh.


    "It''s nothing, it f*cking stupid-"


    "Law 101, huh?" Ricky tilted the book upward, raising an eyebrow as Jake rubbed the back of


    his neck awkwardly.


    "I know pulling my life together and I do want to be part of the family, but after seeing


    Marshall I just kinda got-"


    "Hey, listen, Jake." Ricky held up his hand, stopping his friend as he looked toward him, a serious expression crossing his face.


    "Whatever you do, be it in or outside the family, I''m gonna support you."


    "Not as someone from the Luciano family, but as a friend." Ricky said, his tone low and


    earnest as he leaned in, locking eyes with Jake.


    "For once Jake dont'' think about me, your brother, or the family." Ricky shrugged, tipping the


    glass to him before downing the rest.


    "Be selfish, think about yourself, and when you''re ready to talk about the future, you come find me. The door''s always open," Ricky said, standing up and preparing to leave.


    Jake, slowly lowering his head while watching as Ricky walked away, the weight of the words


    settling in. "Thanks, Slick." Jake bit his lip, his eyes watering, the words barely escaping his throat. Ricky


    paused on the stairs, turning just enough to glance back at him.


    Sniff


    "Thanks for not just throwing me away," Jake said, wiping his eyes, his voice thick with


    emotion. He knew how much of a burden he''d been.


    Ricky paused at the bottom of the stairs, then turned back toward him, raising the bottle with


    a smirk.


    "What are friends for?" Three hours later, "Do you have any fours?"


    "OH COME ON!" Ricky slammed down his cards, frustration evident in his voice. The rest of


    the group let out an exasperated sigh, clearly used to his outbursts.


    Asterion, ever so slightly, took the four from Chester, who was looking at his hand in


    disbelief.


    They were all huddled around the table: Ricky, Asterion, Chester, Alexander, Marshall, Jake, and even Garfield.


    It was a cutthroat game of Go-Fish, but instead of money, they were betting peanuts.


    Still, the stakes were high, pride was on the line, and nobody wanted to lose, especially to


    Asterion.


    Asterion, for reasons no one could explain, was absolutely lethal at this game as it was as if he had some sixth sense, knowing exactly which cards everyone had, even without seeing them.


    His calm and cheerful demeanor only added to the mystery, making him all the more infuriating to play against.


    "I''ll never win at this game, never," Alexander groaned, dropping to his knees in dramatic defeat. Chester, ever the sympathetic soul, patted him on the back with a chuckle. "True-" Garfield rubbed salt in the wound as Chester flashed him a stink eye. "IS WHAT ALL THOSE WHO RALLIED AGAINST MY DEFEAT WANT ME TO SAY FOR I,


    ALEXANDER THE GREAT, WILL NEVER YIELD IN THE FACE OF DEFEAT, NEVER!" Alexander roared out, declaring his will to the heavens with a gerbil cry of defiance.


    "Alright, count me out for this game," Ricky muttered, standing up as he watched with slight


    envy as Asterion casually pulled the pile of peanuts closer to him, a gentle smile spreading across his face at the delight of playing with friends.


    Walking out of the room and towards the terrace, Ricky was struck by the scene before him, one that painters would dream of when seeking their muse.


    Raven stood bathed in moonlight, her gaze lost in the distant scenery, her silhouette glowing


    softly against the night sky.


    Ricky moved silently behind her, his hands slipping around her waist, pulling her closer as the


    night air seemed to hum with the quiet intimacy of the moment. "Have I told you how beautiful you look in the moonlight?" Ricky whispered in her ear, his


    voice low and steady, sending a shiver down her spine as he leaned down, his lips grazing her shoulder in a soft kiss.


    "Not yet~" Raven purred, her voice dripping with a playful edge, a soft chuckle escaping her


    lips as she turned towards him.


    Her back pressed against the cool surface of the terrace, her eyes locking with him as the


    scenery hung behind her like a well drawn landscape, pulling the image together in its perfect


    form.


    "Well, you look beautiful in the moonlight," Ricky whispered, his lips brushing her cheek before he rested his head gently on her shoulder.


    Raven glanced down at him, her gaze softening as she allowed the moment to settle between


    them. "You did a good thing, you know that?" Raven whispered, pulling him into a tight hug and gently patting his head as they swayed softly, the quiet of the night surrounding them. "I don''t know if you did it for me, for yourself, or for mutants, but you did good." Raven


    kissed his cheek softly, her words lingering in the air as she pulled back just enough to look at


    him.


    "So are you going to finally give me the chance I''ve been asking for?" Ricky chuckled, lifting


    his head up to gently place his forehead on hers.


    "Can I ask the question?"


    "Of course we can have sex here-"


    "Not that." Raven scoffed, watching Ricky laugh without a care in the world as the sight made


    her slightly memorized.


    "Why should I give you a chance?" Ravne asked with a playful smile as it was Ricky''s turn to


    scoff.


    "Oh come on-"


    "Just humor me, please?" Raven pouted, her fingers gently brushing his cheek as she looked


    at him with a playful yet expectant gaze, hoping for a sincere response. "Other than the fact that you''re madly in love with me?" Ricky asked with a slight laugh.


    "Other than that," Raven rolled her eyes, though the corner of her mouth hinted at a smile.


    Ricky looked at her gently, then kissed her cheek once more, his lips lingering for a moment before pulling away.


    "Because Destiny can''t give you the loving family I can," Ricky murmured, resting his hand


    on her stomach as they began to sway back and forth. "I''m serious about you, Raven," Ricky said, his voice low and earnest.


    "I don''t know what it is about you, but what I feel is real." Ricky paused, trying to find the


    right words, but there was a rawness in his honesty, an unspoken truth that hung in the air between them.


    "I just want to f*cking cherish you." Ricky said the first thing that popped into his mind, but Raven didn''t laugh and instead smiled warmly.


    "Even in the briefest moments, I could not stop thinking about everything you were and the


    second I do, I see that I just can''t let you slip through my fingers again."


    "I''m not asking you to sacrifice yourself for me, but to let me show you that you belong with


    me." Ricky was almost surprised with himself at these words since he couldn''t help but fall in


    love with her.


    Everything about her drove him crazy, the way she talked, laughed, playfully nudged him away, and all of it boiled into this moment as Raven gently caressed his cheek. "Okay, but don''t think I''m just going to give you my heart all at once, Tiger," Raven teased,


    pulling him closer and kissing his lips.


    His hands trailed down her back, the moonlight casting a soft glow over them as they stood in


    that quiet, intimate moment.


    "I wouldn''t expect anything less."


    They sat in each other''s company, gazing at the horizon as the world around them seemed to


    pause.


    The silence between them stretched for what felt like an eternity, each lost in their own thoughts, until finally, Ricky broke the stillness.


    "Hey Raven, what do you know about the High Table?" Ricky asked, the words slipping out


    before he had a chance to really think about it.


    He remembered how she had stepped foot into the Continental so long ago, and the curiosity


    lingered in his mind.


    The question was so simple on the surface, yet it carried so much weight, and it took Raven a moment to process it.


    "What did you do?" Raven asked, squinting her eyes before thinking Ricky got caught up in


    something.


    "Wha-nothing, I''m just wondering since my pops made some sort of deal with them-" "What?!" Raven shot out of his grasp, her eyes widening in shock as she pulled away from


    him, her expression quickly darkening into a frown.


    "I know it''s a big deal, come on, my hands are feeling empty-" Ricky reached out, annoyed


    that he couldn''t grope Raven all he wanted.


    "Ricky, I don''t know anything about the High Table," Raven said, her voice steady but firm.


    Ricky looked at her as if she was mistaken.


    "But you''ve-"


    "I know what you''re going to say, but if you call me old, I''m going to scratch your face,"


    Raven hissed, her fingers curling slightly as she shot him a playful glare.


    "Alright but how, you''ve-"


    "I''ve only met one High Table member, which is Selene," Raven said, holding up her finger as


    she recalled her brief stint in the Hellfire Club, where she crossed paths with Selene. "But she''s been in that position since the Roman Empire, and I only knew this because she


    told me," Raven continued, her voice tinged with caution. "The members of the High Table are not just dangerous, they''re untouchable. These are people who rule entire continents underbelly''s, who can shift the balance of power with the flick of a finger, all while running the underworld with a vicious intensity. The kind of people you don''t want to get caught in their sights who have been setting the rules since before there


    were any." Raven spoke, rubbing her own shoulder since the high table always made her


    uneasy.


    "If Lucky, an unpowered man, was able to make a deal with them, then it had to be enough to catch their interest, which is something people have literally killed themselves for," Raven said, her voice laced with concern as she walked over to Ricky, settling herself onto his lap.


    "I know you want to celebrate after what you did, but promise me you''ll be careful." She caressed his cheek gently, her yellow eyes searching for any sign of understanding. "Of course, who else is more careful than me?" Ricky showed a sleazy smile, not giving a


    direct answer while looking in a certain direction.


    1 hour later,


    Meanwhile at the local holding center,


    Now, defeated and left disheveled and broken within the confines of his cell, Dewey had a


    hollow look on his face as he had essentially lost everything. From his career all the way down to the love of his life, everything had shattered around him.


    Each piece of his once-ordered world lay in ruins, and in this moment, he felt utterly hollow.


    His hands, once steady and sure, now trembled as they rested against the cold, unforgiving


    walls of the cell.


    There was no escape from this darkness, no way to undo the choices that had led him here.


    All that remained was the painful silence that echoed within him, a reminder of everything he


    had destroyed and everything he would never get back, until even that was broken.


    Click


    Click


    Click


    The sound of heels clicking in the distance resounded, growing louder with each step. Dewey


    slowly looked up, his hollow gaze meeting Ricky''s pleasant smile. They didn''t say anything and didn''t have to, they already knew why he was here as Ricky


    opened the cell door without a sound, closing it gently behind him as he stepped inside. Without saying a word, he walked over and sat on the other side of the wall, the distance between them marked only by the silence that filled the room while the broken man stood on


    the other side of him.


    "You''re a monster." Dewey''s voice cracked, the words escaping him like a dam breaking, as he looked at Ricky with raw anguish.


    His eyes were empty, but the pain was still there, lingering in the depths all while Ricky just


    sat there, watching him with the same patient expression, as if expecting this. "You''re going to burn this country to the ground and become the heart of its suffering," Dewey spat, his hollow eyes igniting with the last ember of hate he had left, all of it focused


    on the man sitting across from him.


    "I don''t know how you did it or why, but I know one thing-.....y-you were just lucky!" Dewey


    yelled at Ricky, his voice trembling with a mix of fury and frustration, the anger barely


    contained beneath the surface.


    Even now, even after everything, it was as if Dewey couldn''t accept the weight of his failure


    which made Ricky let out a small laugh, turning away as if his words were nothing more than a


    joke.


    "It was like everything was a line of dominoes, one thing falling after another, all perfectly lined up for you. And everyone credits you for it, but I know better. I know you didn''t have the skill, the intelligence, or the guts to pull this off. It was all just luck, nothing more." Dewey could only hang onto his own delusion, knowing his words were false and yet, he continued. "Someone is backing you like me, someone is helping you and-"


    "You want to know why they call my pops ''Lucky''? The real reason, not the bullsh*t excuse he


    gives?" Ricky suddenly asked, cutting off Dewey''s hateful breaths with the sharpness of his


    words.


    "It''s because whenever the odds were stacked against him, no matter what was in front of him, he won anyway." Ricky leaned his head back against the wall, resting his arms on his


    knees while his gaze stayed fixed on the broken man before him.


    "He''d always tell me there''s no such thing as luck, and so I never understood why they called


    him lucky, but I think I do now." Ricky chuckled, making a playing card appear before Dewey''s


    eyes, spinning it through his fingers effortlessly.


    "You got lucky-"


    "You see, that''s it." Ricky continued, his smile widening while the realization hit him at that


    moment.


    "Guys like you always think that other people get lucky." Ricky tilted his head, showcasing his


    pearly whites with his cheeky smile on the side.


    "And just like my pops," Ricky let his words drip, making each one cut deeper. He raised his


    gaze, locking eyes with Dewey.


    "I don''t get lucky, I make my own luck." Ricky laughed, the sound sharp and almost freeing,


    as the realization hit him fully, understanding now what his pops meant when he said there''s


    no such thing as luck that you don''t make yourself.


    "Everything that happened to you didn''t happen by some anomaly, it happened because it


    was meant to happen." Ricky leaned forward, his eyes narrowing into crescent moons, his


    pupils betraying the shock of revealing to Dewey that he was the root cause of it all. "Don''t you get it, Dewey? You didn''t survive the blast. That front you had? It''s evaporated.


    Now, just like I told you three years ago, I''m just gonna scurry out of the rubble." Ricky laughed maniacally, his promise coming full circle as Dewey trembled violently. "Just like the cockroach you are," Dewey hissed, watching him rise slowly, adjusting his suit, and bending down to his level.


    "And this cockroach also makes good on his promises." Ricky said, his voice low and cold as


    he grabbed Dewey''s throat, squeezing tightly while lifting him off the ground. "You''re right, Dewey," Ricky whispered into his ear, his grip tightening on Dewey''s throat.


    "I''m the reason everything that happened to you, from your job and into France''s, went down the way it did because of me." Ricky''s words forced Dewey''s eyes to widen in shock, and tears


    welled up as the weight of Ricky''s words sunk in.


    "But don''t you worry, I''ll take care of her and if you''re wondering, she will be fuFILLED."


    Ricky laughed after highlighting the last part of his words, Dewey''s heart shattering even


    further as Ricky brought out some rope.


    Tying the rope above, he hoisted Dewey up, looping it around his neck before letting it go, the


    weight of it tightening instantly as the man succumbed to gravity. "Kuerk!" Dewey let out a strangled grunt, desperately clawing at the rope as he hung above


    Ricky.


    At first, he struggled, but gradually his body went limp, his face turning purple from the strain until he finally succumbed, his body becoming lifeless as the last image of Ricky''s


    sleazy smile encapsulated his being before his eyes slowly shut for good. "Goodbye Dewey."


    The cold, dark void clung to Dewey''s mind, his soul drifting away, until a bright light appeared in its wake.


    It felt as though the light was calling to him, urging him to move forward as a warm pulse


    echoed around him.


    Everything was over now, he could finally rest, leave his worldly troubles behind, and find the


    peace he had longed for.


    "OH COME ON DEWEY, WHO SAID IT ENDS HERE!" Then, within that void, dark green chains slowly coiled around his soul, their weight heavy


    and unrelenting.


    Symbols began to materialize in the space around him, glowing with an eerie light, their


    meanings cryptic yet binding.


    ''N-No, NO PLEASE!'' Dewey''s soul cried out, screeching up towards the light only for the


    chains to yank him back down.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA, I JUST F*CKING SAID I''D BE THE ONE TO TAKE YOUR LIFE,


    I DIDN''T MEAN YOU COULD JUST DIE!"


    The words echoed all around the void, their resonance deep and suffocating, dragging


    Dewey''s soul down deeper and deeper.


    It was as though all the drifting, all the fleeting moments of peace he had hoped for, had been


    in


    vain.


    The chains tightened, and the symbols pulsed with a cold, merciless energy, pulling him


    further away from the light he had once felt drawn to. "WHAT''S THE POINT OF A F*CKING EXAMPLE IF NO ONE GETS TO SEE IT FIRSTHAND, OH NO DEWEY, I''M GONNA F*CKING OWN YOU!"


    The intensity of Ricky''s words cut through the void like a blade, a sharp declaration that


    reverberated through Dewey''s fading consciousness. The darkness around him seemed to throb with the weight of Ricky''s fury, as if the very air


    was heavy with his wrath.


    The chains constricted further, each symbol etched into Dewey''s soul, marking him as Ricky''s


    possession until they had finished.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Dewey''s scream tore through the air, a raw, gut- wrenching wail as his grotesque form twisted and contorted in the pit beneath him.


    The relentless rain hammered down, soaking his twisted body, mixing with the mud as it


    clung to him.


    Above, Ricky stood, a maddened grin stretched across his face, his hand gripping the shovel


    while personally taking Dewey out from the hole he''d been buried in. The rain intensified, but Ricky''s smile only grew, savoring every moment as Dewey wailed in


    his new


    body. When Dewey was eventually pulled from the pit, lifeless and unmoving, the authorities


    declared it a suicide, processing his body with a detached coldness.


    They found no sign of foul play, and Dewey''s death was chalked up to his own despair.


    His body was handed over to the only family he had left, Frances, who, with grim


    determination, gave him an impromptu funeral.


    But as the mourners dispersed, Ricky emerged from the shadows, his grin never faltering.


    The torment Dewey had endured was far from over and in a twisted revelation, Ricky made it


    clear that death was only the beginning of his suffering.


    "W-What did you do to me?" Dewey trembled uncontrollably, his voice cracking with panic as


    The stared at his hands, the flesh rotting away in grotesque patches.


    His heart wasn''t even pounding and yet the surge of terror washed over him as he looked up at


    Ricky, whose smile was unsettlingly warm, as if nothing was amiss. "When I said take your life, I meant it in the literal sense." Ricky''s words were almost cheerful, chuckling while reaching down.


    "But don''t worry, Dewey, we''re gonna have so much fun." Ricky said as his hand reached


    down, casting a shadow over the grotesque form of Dewey, who shook his head madly.


    "No, NOOOOO00000000-"


    DING


    (Legendary Servant) Dewey The Tortured Wraithbound: The Tortured Wraithbound, known as Dewey, is a grotesque, decaying zombie, distinguished by the eerie glow of its hollow eyes,


    an unsettling sign of the soul trapped within, eternally suffering. Its withered, blackened


    flesh is stretched taut over brittle bones, as if the weight of the tormented soul forces its body into unnatural contortions. The most tragic aspect of Dewey''s existence is that while it is cognizant of its actions, it is powerless to control its own body. Its every movement is dictated by the summoner''s will, a slave to the user''s commands. The soul within endlessly cries for release, yet it remains bound, trapped in an agonizing limbo until the user''s will is


    either exhausted or it is freed.


    Abilities:


    Eternal Agony (Passive):


    The Wraithbound''s presence induces overwhelming sorrow and dread, causing enemies


    nearby to experience brief hallucinations and weakened resolve.


    Soulcry (Active):


    The Wraithbound releases a torment-filled wail that disorients enemies, causing confusion


    or paralysis. Its strength grows the longer it''s bound to the mortal realm.


    Author''s note: I''d love some feedback on whether you think I went too far with Dewey. The whole point was to make him an example, along with the families in the future, but I turned him into an undead because of Ricky''s psychology. Him having this need to always go further and I really feel like Ricky wouldn''t stop at this point cause he already crossed the line in


    earlier chapters. Does this seem out of character, or am I just second-guessing myself? SHOUT OUT: Thanks M7TH1C for the image and to everyone who submitted images but I just kinda liked the raven one also, I realized that I can''t even use the one I had in my mind since


    the stupid AI said it was inappropriate as well so I just can''t stop taking L''s.

 Chapter 141: Chapter 136: Chapter 136: Deals and Devils

    Chapter 141: Chapter 136: Chapter 136: Deals and Devils


    ?


    Meanwhile in the Otherworld,


    CRASH


    BAM


    "Your Majesty." A necrotic butler bowed low outside his master''s chamber doors, knocking ever so gently, only for the door to be flung open abruptly.


    BAM


    In an instant, the necrotic butler was hurled against the wall, his limbs torn from his body. In the doorway stood a furious woman, radiating violent green energy.


    "Your Majesty, is there something the matter?" The necrotic butler asked, his tone calm despite being split into pieces as he showed no concern as he began to slowly reassemble himself.


    The familiar woman huffing in the doorway was none other than the illustrious figure, Morgana Le Fey.


    "Ready my chambers," Morgana commanded in a dangerous tone, clearly in a particular mood today, as it was the anniversary of Camelot.


    The festivities rang out all throughout Avalon, which is shaped by the collective subconscious of the British Isles.


    Today marks the commemoration of the day when King Arthur sacrificed himself, bringing the great city of Camelot to the Otherworld.


    It was then that he began his long wait for resurrection, destined to return in Britain''s time of greatest need.


    Avalon was, in many ways, a reflection of Earth during the golden age of the goddess, when the forests were nurtured by her druids, the skies danced with her faeries, and the earth was vibrant and brimming with magic.


    A realm of serene beauty and enchanted forests, Avalon has long been a sanctuary of honor, magic, and the pursuit of knightly virtue.


    Spiritually and subconsciously intertwined with the land of Britain''s own Earth, Avalon''s fate mirrors that of Britain.


    When Britain prospers, Avalon flourishes, and when Avalon is imperiled, Britain too feels the scorch of its flames.


    Avalon is a perfect paradise, an idyllic sight to behold, even from the confines of her castle prison.


    For Morgana, watching this empire rise higher each day is the worst form of torture, a constant reminder that she is not needed as its queen.


    To her, Camelot needs its queen.


    "But your majesty-"


    "I said ready my chambers since this time, I will do whatever it takes to force my entry into the black knight''s mind." Morgana eyes flared green, the necrotic butler nodding and making haste of his queen''s action.


    The only thing that can break her chains is the Ebony Blade, a sword capable of cutting through any spell, barrier, or obstacle.


    For centuries, she has tried to coerce the Black Knight into doing her bidding, but all her efforts have been in vain.


    Yet Morgana is not one to give up.


    She would sooner die than surrender to a fate where she does not sit on the throne.


    As her heels clicked through the hall, she steeled herself, ready to infiltrate the mind of the current Black Knight, no matter the cost.


    Entering her chambers, the only connection she has to Earth, Morgana slowly closed her eyes, focusing on the Black Knight''s signature.


    Earth is composed of various complex energies, each with its own distinct reading and color. For many, these energies remain hidden, as they see only what is directly before them, unable to perceive what lies between reality and the unseen.


    Morgana, however, possesses the ability to see beyond what others cannot as she has honed her skill in locating the Ebony Blade''s unique red, crackling energy, making her adept at tracking it through the intricate web of Earth''s energies.


    There, the energy radiated from the new figure, and before her, Ricky''s body appeared only as a silhouette.


    His mind held the connection to the Ebony Blade, but there was a small issue. Around his brain lay a protective dome, a barrier he had always used, one that had thwarted Morgana''s attempts in the past.


    But this time, she was determined and with a single focused thought, she channeled every ounce of her power, aiming to shatter that dome in one swift motion.


    She tunneled her vision deeper and deeper, searching for any faults or weaknesses in the barrier, until, unknowingly, she encountered a void-like thread attached to Ricky.


    Having never encountered anything like this before in all her attempts, Morgana''s curiosity was piqued.


    The allure of delving into the deeper depths of any mystery tugged at her, and with slow, deliberate intent, she began to integrate her consciousness into the void-like thread.


    In doing so, she chose an action that would forever scar her very soul, unknowingly stepping into a realm of darkness and consequence far greater than she could have imagined.


    As Morgana''s consciousness merged with the void-like thread, the transition was instantaneous yet excruciating.


    The moment she entered into the connection, whispers immediately overwhelmed her


    thoughts.


    A cacophony of voices blared in her ears like thunder, their maddening crescendo forcing her eardrums to bleed, even here, in the Otherworld.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Morgana screeched, writhing on the bed as the necrotic butler tried to force her out of the pain which had taken hold of her but it was no use.


    Her vision blurred as though the fabric of reality itself were distorting around her, and slowly, her eyes blackened into a void-like color.


    The very sight around her seemed to unravel her being, the shadows clawing at her soul as if they were alive.


    The pulse of the Void beat in time with her heart, and the whispers, those endless whispers, drowned out all coherent thought.


    Her limbs felt heavy, as though gravity itself had shifted, and she staggered, barely able to


    stand.


    The landscape around her seemed to twist and writhe, with fragments of decaying stone floating like ancient debris in a sea of black ichor.


    The ground beneath her feet was barren, cracked, and fragmented, as if the very earth had been torn apart by some unseen force.


    The fissures in the land stretched wide, revealing nothing but the void beneath, an endless chasm that seemed to dig deeper and deeper into oblivion.


    Impossible structures towered above her, their jagged spires reaching toward the sky, etched with glyphs that shimmered in the dark.


    The voices surged louder, their words almost intelligible now, but still foreign, sharp and


    fragmented.


    The ground beneath her feet buckled and shifted, the very landscape a reflection of the chaos


    within her.


    In the midst of her struggle, her sight was forcibly pulled deeper into the abyss, as though some unseen force had taken hold of her consciousness and dragged it to the very heart of the


    dimension.


    There, within the roiling, chaotic energy, she saw it; an ancient, monstrous entity that drifted through this horrid places center, its presence so vast and incomprehensible that it seemed to consume the space around it.


    Its form was partially obscured by the swirling energy, the dimension itself seeming to warp and twist in response to its existence.


    But even through the shadows, glimpses of its true nature were revealed; writhing tentacles, each one covered in glistening, alien flesh, reached out as though seeking to tear the fabric of


    reality apart.


    Its body was a grotesque fusion of twisted, decaying faces, their hollow eyes weeping black ichor as they cried out in agony, their mouths whispering in tongues that burned through her


    mind.


    Morgana''s soul was pulled toward it, a magnetic force that tugged at her very essence as the entity''s massive cyclopean eye, glowing with a sickly light, focused on her with a malevolent intent, and she could feel its hunger, the ancient desire to consume her entirely.


    Just as the tentacles reached out, their tips sharp and eager to ensnare her soul, a sudden burst of energy cut through the Void''s grip as a sharp, severing force that shattered the connection before it could claim her.


    "Y-Your Majesty, I-" The necrotic butler, who had torn apart the chambers in an attempt to free her master, wore a relieved expression.


    But Morgana''s eyes narrowed, her gaze flickering with the haunting memory permanently


    etched into her soul.


    "Leave."


    "Your majesty-" "LEAVE!" Morgana screeched, clutching her head and curling into a ball.


    The chaos had stripped her of any care for Camelot, Avalon, or anything else, and left her


    numb to it all.


    Her usual worldly eyes locked into the fireworks firing off into the distance, showing disbelief


    yet unmistakably clear.


    Unlike the energies of Earth, she recognized this force as it had tried countless times to invade Otherworld, only to be thwarted by Merlin.


    Once thought to be a myth, a force that had perished at the height of the Hyborian Age, there


    was no denying it now even when remnants remained.


    "N-Nethergods."


    SNORT


    Ricky snorted as he woke, sitting up and tiredly rubbing his eyes, oblivious to someone


    attempting to penetrate his mind.


    Sniff


    Ricky sniffed, rubbing his nose before collapsing back into bed and pulling the naked Raven


    closer into his arms, knowing tomorrow would be a big day.


    Meanwhile In Staten Island, "WHAT ARE YOU SAYING?!" Joe roared into the phone, his eyes wild as his usual calm


    demeanor cracked under the weight of the words spoken to him.


    On the other side, however, Franklin let out a hollow laugh, leaning back in his presidential


    chair as he gazed at the door.


    "YOU SAID IF I COOPERATED WITH YOU, I WOULD GET NEW YORK, THAT I WOULD BE THE


    HEAD OF THE MAFIA FAMILY, THAT I WOULD-"


    "Worthless," Franklin uttered through the phone, his words slicing through Joe''s sentence as


    he snarled.


    "You failed, I told you to kill him three years ago and you cut him loose."


    "You underestimated that mutant, and now you have to pay the price, just like I gave him free reign over New York." Franklin''s words froze Joe''s body, his breath quickening as his fingernails dug into the wood table beneath him.


    "I lost." Franklin leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes before they opened, sharper than


    ever.


    "But that''s the last time I suffer defeat to Ricky Luciano. Unfortunately, you won''t get a


    chance like that." Franklin merely shook his head, while Joe grabbed his forehead, pacing in


    his office.


    "Mr. President if I go down-"


    "There is no if''s, you won''t make it out there alive."


    Click


    The phone clicked, and Joe''s breath hitched as he gazed forward as that calm, snake-like demeanor slowly shed, revealing the crazed psychopath he truly was.


    "ROUND THEM ALL UP! I WANT EVERY MAN AVAILABLE TRYING TO GET A HOLD OF HIS


    LOVED ONES!"


    Joe manically began bolstering Staten Island, turning it into a fortress as he knew Ricky was


    -coming.


    In fact, everyone in New York knew he was coming.


    It was why the windows were slowly shutting, the doors locked, and parents yanked their kids


    off the streets, they all knew what was coming.


    The people knew that as long as they stayed quietly out of Ricky Luciano''s way, they wouldn''t


    suffer, but the underworld was different.


    Panic spread through the minds of the gangs as the horror stories of The Black Knight slowly


    trickled into the mobsters'' ears.


    Everything from how he massacred three families in one sitting over an old grudge to rumors


    that he actually ripped Dracula''s head off to claim his priest position, these stories haunted


    the underworld.


    The entire criminal network was on edge, holding their breath, teetering back and forth with a


    gun pointed at the door, praying Ricky wouldn''t step through.


    However Ricky wasn''t worried in the least.


    "Stay another day~" Ricky whispered, kissing Raven''s collarbone as he held her tightly in his


    arms, while she stroked his chin.


    "Come back to New York with me now~" Ricky whispered, feeling Raven''s breath warm


    against his ear.


    "I need the president of my foundation by my side at all times." Ricky slowly trailed his kisses


    up to her ear, whispering as she turned to him.


    "Tiger, do you want me?" Raven asked, her golden eyes meeting Ricky''s as his smile slowly


    formed.


    "You know I do." Ricky tilted his head, his gaze making Raven instinctively blush, but she


    pushed on.


    "All of me?"


    "Is that even a question?"


    "Then, if I''m really going to commit myself to you, to truly walk side by side with you and see


    this better future you promised, I need to start it right." Raven was serious, hugging Ricky as he stroked her naked back.


    "I''m going to leave Irene, but I want to do it face to face. She deserves that much," Raven cooed to Ricky, looking into his green eyes as he kissed her palm. "Hurry back, I''m actually a very impatient person," Ricky joked, letting Raven slip through


    his fingers and yet, his eyes betrayed him, there was no intention of letting it end like this as the tracking ring was still slipped onto her finger.


    Watching her leave, he leaned against the patio railing as the hateful mob, now tripled in size, hurled even more insults at him.


    "Uh, Slick." Jake walked in from the side, rubbing his arm after becoming a little


    uncomfortable.


    "If Garfield is making you feel bad about yourself, just throw water at him-it usually shuts


    him up for a while." Ricky waved at Jake, misinterpreting the usual expression, as Jake slowly shook his head.


    "No, some floating pair of eyeballs is here to see you, and I know it sounds crazy, but he talks


    into your mind." Jake shivered at the last part, clearly disturbed by the eerie scratch that


    happens whenever that guy speaks.


    Sigh


    "That''s Elias. We''re gonna be doing business together on mutant matters." Ricky leaned back


    up, following Jake to a room where Elias was accompanied by his telepaths. "Greetings, Ricky. Did you like my performance?" Elias spoke through his telepath, his eyes forming crescent moons as Ricky crossed his arms.


    "It was something, I''ll give you that." Ricky plopped down in a chair facing Elias, who looked


    delighted by the response. "Then, do we have a deal-"


    "Yeah, about that." Ricky reached into his suit, pulling out a cigar and lighting it with the tip of his finger, taking a slow puff.


    "The deal, that you yourself laid out, stipulated that if I convinced the judge-" "No, you were proving that you were useful, which I''m starting to see. The real negotiation


    starts now." Ricky smiled with the cigar in his mouth, as Shadow Broker wriggled out of his shadow, briefcase in hand.


    "Very well, let''s state our desires." Elias spread out his shadowy hands, clearly annoyed by


    the situation but continuing nevertheless.


    Elias had used most, if not all, of his favors, slithering through his connections to achieve this


    overbearing result, hoping to impress Ricky.


    However, Elias had more or less taken sides, meaning Ricky could use this opportunity to squeeze out as much as he could, rather than adhering to the original terms. Ricky could see it, and Elias knew that Ricky saw just how much of a snake he was.


    Both of them were leaders, and leaders like them rarely followed without something driving


    them forward.


    "So you want to go back to this little mutant club of yours, right?" Ricky asked, showing himself as clearly not seeing the significance.


    "Do you know why the Hellfire club is not only important to me but important to any mutant? Elias''s red eyes glowed with an eerie brilliance, seeming to pierce through the dimness around them as he began to speak, his voice smooth and haunting, resonating with the gravity of his words.


    "Am I about to get a sales pitch?" Ricky asked, watching Elias adjust himself, knowing he was about to be ensnared in a web of possibility if he chose to pursue this so-called ''club''. "The Hellfire Club, Ricky, isn''t just some gathering of wealthy mutants, no. It''s a society that shapes destinies. Imagine a web, spun across continents, held together by the wealthiest, most powerful minds, not just in America, but across Europe, Asia, every corner of the world.


    To be a part of it is to hold a key to influence, to tap into privilege beyond even the Mafia''s reach." Elias intoned as he let the weight of his words settle before continuing. "And to be king within the Hellfire Club? That''s not just a title. It''s a station few ever achieve,


    and it doesn''t come without its share of sacrifices and benefits." Elias then gestured to


    himself, having attained that position personally.


    "The kings, queens, bishops, all the titles in this club, serve a purpose. You''re trusted with the club''s deepest secrets and decisions. People look to you to wield power wisely, to protect and


    advance their interests. And in return?" Elias let those words hang on the edge of his telepath''s tongue, letting the moment bubble while trying to draw Ricky closer. "You''re granted access to the kind of resources, alliances, and secrets that even governments can''t obtain. The club''s members influence policy, shape economies, and sometimes, play kingmakers on an international scale." Elias''s eyes gleamed brighter, his voice lowering to a


    near whisper.


    "If you align yourself with the Hellfire Club, Ricky, you''ll be more than just a player in this world of crime and power. You''ll be sitting among those who decide who plays. In a world where being a mutant makes us outcasts, the Hellfire Club is one of the few places where that difference is cherished, revered. This path isn''t easy, but if you can rise within those ranks, the world is yours in ways most can only dream of." Elias relished in his days of old, where that


    power was at his fingertips and at the sway of his hand made business within regions either succeed or fall. "Then I''m guessing it was pretty crushing to have it all ripped away from you." Ricky gestured to him, watching Elias slowly nod, his red eyes narrowing.


    "Yes, but this will be a small blip in my grand story that I call life. I will once again claim my


    position." Elias then looked toward Ricky with a probing interest.


    "And let me guess, I''m your ticket in." Ricky gestured to himself, gazing at Elias who merely shook his head.


    "I wouldn''t say that, the hellfire club-"


    "You want to know something? I bet that club is going to reach out to me after the stir I caused in the States, and you, already knowing that, are trying to attach yourself to me like some leech." Ricky leaned his head on his hand, thinking those powerful mutants were drooling at the sight of him, being so full of himself he was confident they were at least aware


    of his existence.


    However, Ricky was playing it up on purpose, still unaware but wanting to set a narrative, an illusion, almost, that they were totally keeping tabs on him for the sake of this negotiation. "Why do you assume that?" Elias leaned in, pondering as he gazed at Ricky, who thought


    about it for a while before taking a puff of his cigar.


    "Honestly, it''s a guess, but if it''s a place for what you say it is, wealthy mutants climbing the


    social ladder, then don''t I fit that description?" Ricky asked, gesturing toward himself while raising his chin. "And after I clean up New York, the Luciano Family will be as powerful as ever, and it doesn''t


    make sense for them not to reach out, because that''s what I would do." Ricky finished, and


    Elias slowly nodded.


    "Well, I feel that we are going off-topic. Let''s decide on an appropriate price." Elias put his shadowy hands together, looking at Ricky as his eyes formed into crescent moons. "But can you cut this facade of your uncaring demeanor? It''s quite convincing, but I think we both know that you''re just as interested in my operations as I am in your potential." Elias


    suddenly spoke, leveling the playing field as Ricky simply smiled, remaining quiet. "Do you think I am oblivious to your foundation''s intentions? Do you think I don''t know what you seek to gain from all the mutants I''ve collected over my tenure?" Elias genuinely asked,


    seeing through Ricky''s intentions as if it were child''s play. "Let me guess; you''re going to take me in and use me, give me so many tasks or troubles that I''ll be too preoccupied to even notice you trafficking my mutants in your organization, correct?" Elias was almost reading Ricky like a book, seeing through him like it was nothing.


    "Oh, but your strength is commendable, it is, and I am very wary of it. But I think you have something else up your sleeve, since, weirdly enough, things oddly go your way." Elias''s shadowy hand stroked his shadowy form, outwardly assessing Ricky.


    "For example, I''ve known Rockefeller for a long time, and never has anyone ever escaped him


    with such favorable conditions, as if he was controlled." Elias chuckled, his eyes surveying


    every inch of him.


    "Then there was that poor lawyer, but that could be chalked up to you forcing him. And now I


    wonder, can you augment minds as well?" Elias''s eyes gleamed, surveying the situation, but


    Ricky simply smiled. ''He''s reaching, he doesn''t know.'' Chester''s voice echoed in Ricky''s mind, coming from the terrace outside the window, where he listened to the conversation unfold. The honest thing about Elias was that he wondered if Chester could use his ability on him,


    since the only ones Chester had ever targeted were regular people, never telepaths. Chester always described it as entering their mental world, and Elias couldn''t help but wonder


    if revealing Chester''s identity could endanger his hidden card.


    "Are you done?" Ricky asked, puffing out smoke from his cigar, dabbing the side with his


    thumb before slowly putting it back in his mouth.


    "Am I not allowed to probe into the details of this matter? And of course, if you''re wondering


    whether I have any objections to mental augmentations, I welcome them," Elias continued, a


    sly look gleaming through his red eyes. "I''m quite curious to see if I''d fall under them too."


    He completely bluffed, knowing that Ricky had something, though not exactly what it was as


    the tension in the room thickened as their verbal sparring continued.


    It seemed too odd, too coincidental and with all the digging Elias had done on Ricky, there


    were times when everything lined up too smoothly, like pieces of a puzzle that fell into place


    a little too perfectly.


    It left him uneasy, as if there was something Ricky wasn''t showing, something hidden


    beneath the surface that even Elias'' sharp instincts hadn''t yet fully grasped. "Why the hell would I tell you if it makes you so curious?" Ricky suddenly asked, spreading


    his arms wide, his laughter filling the room.


    He leaned back in his chair, taking a long drag from his cigar, a smirk playing on his lips as his


    eyes gleamed with the challenge since this time, it was his turn to watch Elias for any sign of


    weakness or hesitation. "If you''re getting so bent out of shape over a ''what if,'' what reason do I have to stop you from becoming a total psycho because of it?" Ricky laughed, his tone laced with mockery, deliberately pushing Elias''s buttons.


    His words hung in the air, playing on Elias''s curiosity and paranoia as he wanted to keep Elias uncertain, distracted by the possibility that he might have a card that could change the tide of everything all while Ricky moved forward with his own plans, trafficking the mutants into his organization under the guise of cooperation.


    They both knew what each other wanted, but it was precisely because of that mutual


    understanding that the process was so captivating. Every word, every gesture, was calculated, and everything was left in a silence.


    One way or another, their plans required each other, yet it was their pride that held them back


    from asking, which is why demands started to come into play.


    "I want a borough." Elias was the first to make a demand, seemingly stopping the horseplay


    and getting right to the negotiations. "You''re not getting a borough, a building maybe-"


    "If you are to assume that I''d come to work in that foundation then you''re incorrect." Elias


    interrupted Ricky, halting any idea of him working at a foundation that would funnel his own


    mutants out of his control.


    "I would like Manhattan-"


    "You''ll get the Bronx, but it''s just occupational. It doesn''t mean you get to step into my


    future operations." Ricky waved his hand dismissively, making it clear that Elias wasn''t to


    have any real control over his territory. "Do I get a cut-"


    "Of course, if you come work for me-"


    "What about the mutants I give you?" Elias immediately brought up the idea, Ricky becoming


    intrigued while dabbing his cigar.


    "I supply you with mutants-" "Kids or teenagers, that''s it. I don''t need forty-year-old guys trying to play grunts; it''ll mess


    up the order." Ricky set the condition, making it clear to Elias that he intended to groom the


    younger generation, as the latter had anticipated.


    "1000-"


    "250-"


    "I cannot go below 750," Elias stated firmly, aware that while the younger mutants weren''t as


    powerful, they were more likely to slip from his grasp since they were young and moldable.


    But even so, he''d undoubtedly use them as spies, but Ricky had expected this response. The beauty of the Luciano family was its ties, how close-knit they were, almost like an actual


    family.


    Ricky knew that the kids would eventually integrate themselves into the family, giving


    themselves completely to it.


    But that focus, he decided, could wait for a later date. "Alright, 500 a pop for each, and 750 for every kid that actually has a fighting mutant power,"


    Ricky set out the conditions, watching Elias mentally juggle the numbers.


    It wasn''t that Elias needed the money since if he wanted, he could tap into his vast network of


    shell


    companies.


    However, the wealth was largely tied up in assets, not liquid cash and Elias was incredibly wealthy, but his fortune was hidden in a way that made it difficult to access quickly.


    He preferred to let his wealth simmer, allowing the power behind it to grow and strengthen


    over time, rather than rushing to liquidate it so the cash on hand would be useful. Besides, he would start by off loading all the weak mutants onto Ricky while keeping the


    promising ones for himself.


    "Very well, it was a pleasure doing business with you," Elias said, standing up and extending


    his shadowy hand as Ricky chuckled, rising to his feet as he reached out and firmly shook it.


    "I look forward to our partnership-"


    "That is, when you swear upon the River Styx." Elias finally revealed, his voice smooth and


    confident as Ricky laughed heartily, shaking his head. "Ha, so you know about Asterion." Ricky clicked his tongue, amused by the revelation.


    Ricky then let out a small laugh while seeing Asterion scratching his head in the doorway,


    confused as to what was going on.


    Elias had instructed him to enter at that exact moment, and now, standing in the doorway, he


    felt the weight of the moment.


    Asterion stepped forward, his large frame filling the space, but his eyes darted briefly to Elias,


    who regarded him with an unreadable expression.


    ''It is like talking to the fates over again,'' Asterion sighed internally, walking towards Ricky


    within his human form.


    "The conditions of you making me-"


    "Whoa there, Elias, this changes everything." Ricky backed up, knowing the conversation


    changed completely.


    "Ricky, it is obvious but you are too powerful for me to take on, I''ll need guarantees-" Elias


    was trying to show how he was protecting himself but Ricky shook his head. "I need more, the river styx sh*t means I get more." Ricky shook his head, sitting back down


    and watching Elias impatiently standing before him.


    In Elias''s eyes, Ricky''s lack of trust and spontaneous nature was frustrating, but it was clear


    that he couldn''t make a deal with someone as reckless as Ricky without securing that kind of


    guarantee.


    The stakes were too high, and Elias knew that without it, Ricky''s ambition would eventually


    overpower any agreement made.


    But on the other hand, Ricky would never swear on the River Styx, not for a mere handful of


    mutants.


    His selfishness and insatiable greed wouldn''t allow it and for him, power came with


    conditions, and no ancient oath was worth the risk when there was so much more to gain.


    "What is it you want-"


    "Until I make you the black king, you''re gonna work under me at my foundation under Raven-


    ||


    "I said-"


    "I''m not asking anymore." Ricky laughed, wiping his mouth and about to wipe his ass with


    this negotiation if he didn''t get his way.


    "You said it yourself, you need me just as much as I need you in this area, but I''m not gonna


    relent on this bullsh*t unless it seems reasonable." Ricky shrugged, his pettiness overflowing


    at the sheer audacity of Elias.


    His tone was casual, but the underlying message was clear as Ricky wasn''t someone to be


    cornered easily, no matter how much leverage Elias thought he had. "You want a binding oath that ensures you get what you want, f*cking fine, whatever." Ricky


    was clearly displeased at this oath but was going to milk every single drop he could from it


    since it was his guy that could do it and Elias had completely overstepped his bounds. "Here''s the new conditions: 250 a pop for every mutant kid, 500 for the good ones. You work under me as one of my guys in the foundation, helping funnel mutants around the country and then globally into my Luciano Family. And you can''t touch any of the mutants you find that aren''t already grandfathered in and coming with you." Ricky stated, throwing in his most


    petty demands with a smirk, watching Elias'' frustration build. "The same applies in the foundation: 250 a pop for every kid you find, and 500 for those that


    suit my interest. That''s the deal." Ricky gestured to Elias, shifting the terms entirely, as the


    latter locked eyes with him, weighing the new proposition.


    "And before you try to haggle me, I know I''ll have to either fight or kill whoever the hell is in


    your position and deal with the fallout after, so you better accept this deal or we''re done."


    Ricky''s voice was sharp, the frustration clear in his tone not at Elias but himself. The River Styx threat still nagged at him since it had been a curveball he hadn''t expected, one


    that rattled him more than he cared to admit as he had actually forgotten how useful it could


    be.


    "Fine," Elias muttered, his voice strained with reluctance as he wasn''t happy with the deal,


    but the guarantee was more valuable to him than a few hundred dollars. The idea of working under Raven in the foundation grated on him, especially since she was


    never higher than a bishop in the hierarchy.


    To have to report to someone of her rank was humiliating, but he knew it was the price he had to pay for the deal to go through.


    "I, Ricky Luciano, swear upon the River Styx that I will make Elias the Black King in the


    Hellfire Club." Ricky purposely said, holding up his hand with the weight of his words


    hanging in the air, his gaze locked with Elias who met his stare unwaveringly, his own


    shadowy hand rising in response.


    "I, Elias Bougern, swear upon the River Styx that I agree under the set forth conditions and


    will do so until I become the Black King." Elias uttered the words that made Ricky laugh,


    rubbing his face at the meaning.


    Both knew the true meaning of the oath as once Elias reached the position of Black King, their


    agreement would become null and void.


    But for now, though, it was a binding promise, and both of them would play their parts.


    "It has been set." Asterion''s deep voice echoed, his eyes dimming to their usual state as Ricky


    gave a brief nod.


    "There, happy?" Ricky asked, crushing the cigar in his hand, his tone casual but with a hint of satisfaction as the deal settled.


    "Very." Elias replied, the weight of the pact still lingering in the air. He stood up, giving a


    small nod to Asterion before making his way toward the exit, his shadowy figure slipping out


    with deliberate grace.


    Ricky watched him go, feeling the tension of the moment linger as the finality of the


    agreement settled in.


    "It was wise for you to hide me as your card, but I know you were trying to keep me out of his


    probing eyes." Chester smiled, flapping over to Ricky and looking at him as he sighed.


    "I just don''t know if your power will work on a weird ass shadow telepath and if it doesn''t,


    then like the stupid information broker he is he''ll f*cking reveal it or sell it." Ricky sighed,


    actually thinking about the consequences as Chester nodded his head before something


    strange had happened.


    Chester (Favorability: 65-69)


    Chester had been oddly holding onto his favoritism, but with this sudden move, it had


    actually risen, which made Ricky smile but before he could comment, Alexander hosted his


    paw into the air.


    "Then, let us embark on our revenge tour!" Alexander roared out, Ricky joining in the fun


    while raising his arm.


    "HAZZAY!"


    The next day,


    Within the heart of New York, the city that should have been alive with the hum of bustling


    crowds and the promise of endless dreams stretching across the horizon, there was an eerie


    silence.


    It was midday, yet the streets lay deserted, as if the very lifeblood of the city had been


    drained.


    Not a single person dared to step outside, their movements halted by one paper, one headline, and one man.


    In the distance, a lone newspaper fluttered in the wind, its edges curling and dancing as it


    caught the empty breeze.


    It moved without purpose, carried by the wind through this ghost city, as if the world itself


    had lost interest and moved on, leaving only the remnants of its presence behind.


    Click


    Click


    Click


    The sound of dress shoes echoed


    through the streets, sharp and deliberate, each step a enveloped the city.


    piercing reminder of the solitude that


    The rhythmic clicking was so subtle, so faint, it could easily be drowned out by the wind, yet


    within every building, every shadowed corner, every heart that still beat in this hushed place,


    it was heard.


    Suddenly, the paper was plucked out of the air, its edges curling slightly as it was snatched


    from the breeze.


    In the instant it was caught, that bold headline sprung into view, the black ink stark against


    the


    white


    backdrop.


    "Ricky Luciano Is Back." Ricky read aloud, his voice cutting through the silence, each word


    heavy as if each syllable would doom any of those who heard it.


    The city, the power, and everything he''d built hinged on his next move as he had to make


    them feel it, feel his return, his rise.


    Everything had been leading to this; every gain, every loss, and everything in between that


    he''d forged over the past three years had been building to this exact moment.


    Ricky knew that this was the culmination of all his planning, all the sacrifices, and all his hard


    work.


    But Ricky wasn''t just going to let it pass unnoticed.


    No, he would make it unforgettable, he would put on a show, a performance for all the eyes


    watching from the shadows, for those who had doubted him and those who had expected this


    very thing.


    The stage was set, and Ricky was the star, he was ready to make them all remember his name


    whether they wanted to or not.


    "That has a nice ring to it." Ricky chuckled, throwing the paper before spreading out his


    hands to his beloved city while shouting to the top of his lungs.


    "OH NEW YORK, I''M BACK!"

 Chapter 142 - 137: Passing The Torch

    Chapter 142 - 137: Passing The Torch


    "Man, I forgot how lively this city is," Ricky chuckled, walking through the unusually quiet streets of New York, which were typically bustling with life but now seemed almost deserted.


    Amidst the quiet facade, uneasy eyes watched from the shadows as Ricky walked down the street. It seemed that with a snap of a finger, a war could erupt, yet Ricky kept his hands in his pockets, observing the scene with an amused smile.


    "This is spectacular!" Asterion exclaimed, his fascination captured by the intricate object of modern design.


    "Pretty cool, and look at this." Ricky walked up to the whites-only public fountain, Asterion raising an eyebrow before his eyes widened.


    Pressing the pedal below, water slowly emerged as Asterion held his head for a moment before walking around the contraption, examining it from every angle.


    Although Asterion had been to New York when Ricky first arrived, he hadn''t ventured into the city since. He always got sidetracked by random things along the way, and by the time the day ended, he would head back then restart.


    "I-Is there some man pushing water to the top-no, this fountain is too small to house a man, maybe a midget, possibly a child-"


    "Asterion, this is simply modern ingenuity," Ricky said, gesturing as the bull man marveled, completely captivated by a mere water fountain.


    Asterion leaned down, licked the water before flinching as he let out a hearty laugh and then, he placed his lips on the nozzle to drink more directly.


    "Gross," Ricky muttered, sighing as he looked off into the distance, lost in a random thought.


    "What is it we are looking at?" Asterion''s head hovered above Ricky''s shoulder, his lips dripping water onto his shoulder.


    "Just thinking of something stupid-"


    "Nothing is stupid unless we dictate it as such." Asterion interrupted Ricky, following as he kicked a pebble with a frown.


    "It''s entirety random and you literally wouldn''t get it, I just thought of it now-"


    "I''ll listen." Asterion smiled warmly, looking at Ricky who had just had a thought before trying to push it to the back of his mind.


    Sigh


    "It''s this stupid spear." Ricky heavily sighed, materializing Chastiefol for Asterion to bear witness upon as the ancient minotaur tilted his head.


    It was such a random thought, the kind people have on a whim before moving on with whatever they were doing but this particular issue had been bugging him, refusing to let go.


    Chastiefol (Mastery: 0%)


    "How do I get this spear to like me?" Ricky asked, literally posing a question that would make any therapist do a double take.


    Ricky didn''t fully understand, but he had been practicing with the spear, even getting the hang of controlling it and yet, for some reason, the percentage remained at zero. Even Alexander was at a loss when nothing happened during their training, and now, here Ricky was, randomly asking Asterion in the middle of a warzone.


    "That is indeed a troubling question to answer." Asterion stroked his own mane, tilting his head the other way at the spear before gazing at Ricky.


    "Have you tried understanding it?" Asterion asked, causing Ricky to glance at the spear, then back at him.


    "Like,tell it my feelings and sh*t?" Ricky replied, his confusion clear as he stared at Asterion as he wasn''t against the idea, but he just didn''t get it.


    "No, I mean understand what the spear represents," Asterion chuckled, shaking his head and gesturing toward the floating spear.


    "Well, not really," Ricky muttered, gazing at the spear before opening the system screen and rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "It has different forms. Do you think I have to, like, understand them as well?" Ricky asked, walking down the road with Asterion who smiled.


    "Well, I don''t know, but let''s talk it out." Ricky had time to burn while waiting for someone, so he started walking through the streets, talking it out with Asterion. Asterion never gave any answers, instead letting Ricky work through his thoughts and arrive at his own revelation.


    Without warning, Ricky began dumping a pile of garbage randomly on the sidewalk, while Asterion merely watched, with Chastiefol hovering to the side.


    "Okay, so while we were talking, the names got me thinking. This spear must have something to do with, like, nature and stuff." Ricky said, half to himself as he tried to piece it together.


    "Have you come to a conclusion?" Asterion inquired politely, wondering out loud as Ricky turned back to him.


    "Okay, so while we were talking, the names got me thinking. This spear must have something to do with, like, nature and stuff." Ricky said, half to himself as he tried to piece it together.


    "Maybe it''s some sort of hippie spear and then it hit me, I literally have a skill for this!" Ricky gestured to himself, remembering a skill that had one of the most potential out of everything he had.


    (Rare Skill) Green Thumb: Turn waste that won''t decompose for more than 50 years into trees.


    ¨CEffects: Works on toxic waste, plastic, rubber, and others


    It was only the beginning, but at that moment, Ricky would actively start to focus on this skill, which would one day become one of his most used abilities.


    Pointing his hand at the waste he dumped on the sidewalk, his thumb began to glow green and suddenly, the trash started to contort, twisting and shifting until it formed a tree sapling.


    Chastiefol (Mastery: 0¡ú1%)


    It was a small thought, addressing a seemingly insignificant issue amidst the looming madness of war. Yet, it was thanks to Asterion''s thoughtfulness that Ricky had suddenly realized the skill held a deeper purpose, one that would lead to far more utilization in the future.


    "Holy sh*t, it worked." Ricky was a little lost for words, while Asterion clapped and smiled warmly, pleased that Ricky had figured it out.


    "Congratulations-"


    "There you two are!" Jake yelled from a distance, calling out to them before rushing over.


    "What happened to meeting in Times Square?" Jake asked, spreading out his arms, clearly noticing this wasn''t Times Square at all while Ricky simply pointed to the tree sapling.


    "I figured out how to master my spear," Ricky said, holding Chastiefol up and pointing to the tree sapling as Jake slowly nodded, his face twisting into a confused expression.


    "Right." Jake forced a smile, looking at Asterion, who gave Ricky a thumbs up.


    "But geez, New York is really on edge." Jake walked to the side, his expression wary as Ricky side-eyed him.


    "Did you-"


    "Yeah, the big guy kept his word. The feds are pulling back," Jake revealed, surprised that it was true as the entire building had been cleared out.


    This was why Ricky stopped by in the middle of the city: to assess the situation and, secondly, to see if Franklin would keep his promise.


    "So, what''s the plan, are you going to go around taking them down one by one-"


    "Nah, I won''t give them the satisfaction of letting this take more than a single night." Ricky''s eyes glowed with a green aura, slowly dripping into the air before dissipating as if it had never been there.


    "Because that''s all their legacies will be; all their creations, all their families, built up over the years, only to be destroyed in a single night." Ricky laughed, already picturing their faces, before walking down the street.


    "But I have to make two stops first, one for answers and another for goodbye." Ricky then opened a portal, glancing back at Jake.


    "Watch the big guy, take him around to the different sights while I handle it." Ricky waved at Jake, but before he could go, Jake stepped up.


    "Listen, Slick, I know you''re a completely different person from before, but just don''t get careless," Jake reminded Ricky, who merely flashed him a smirk before stepping into the portal.


    In the calm office within the Luciano family manor, Lucky sat at his study, the scattered toys of Danielle littering the carpet before him.


    "Slick?" Lucky, who was currently filling out tedious paperwork for his position as CEO of Lucky Legacy Bank, looked over his glasses to see Ricky suddenly appear before him.


    "Pops, cut the bullsht, enough of these stupid fcking riddles. Tell me what''s going on with you and the High Table, and tell me about the deal you have." Ricky immediately got to the point, walking up to the table and locking eyes with Lucky, his expression stern.


    "I already know there''s something going on, a deal, and I''m sick of others knowing when the person who could tell me everything is right in front of me." Ricky sat down in front of Lucky, who let out a heavy sigh.


    Sigh


    "I knew this day would come, but I just thought you''d be a little older, that''s all," Lucky spoke honestly, taking off his glasses and setting them to the side.


    "I didn''t intend to hide it from you but the entire story could take a while-"


    "Pops, just tell me." Ricky''s eyes were dead serious as Lucky slowly nodded, crossing his hands together.


    "It all started before the Luciano family was the Luciano gang, after I adopted you-"


    Lucky Narration


    It ain''t no secret that I had Salvatore Maranzano capped, and it ain''t no secret I did it because another war was gonna break out. But the real truth, the real secret, is that Salvatore was killed not because he wanted to be the Boss of Bosses, but because he solely wanted to be recognized as the leader of the families.


    He wanted to hold the seat of power that would allow him to become a recognized crime family in the High Table''s eyes.


    When people think about the underworld, they imagine a lawless place where anyone can do anything, but that misconception is dead wrong.


    The reason? Because of the High Table and as you know its a f*cking powerful, ancient crime society that has thrived before any government, before any country existed, and has been around for what seems like forever.


    The High Table isn''t just a gathering of criminals; it''s a machine, a well-oiled system where if one cog breaks, it''s quickly replaced.


    To keep these cogs in place, there are rules and these rules are the backbone of the High Table''s existence.


    And those who break the rules? They''re immediately killed, no questions asked. Even members of the High Table who violate the code are executed without hesitation.


    Within these rules are the crime organizations recognized by the High Table, each belonging to their own sector.


    However, the structure of the High Table is such that anyone can join this finely tuned machine, but only a select few crime organizations can be truly recognized.


    In these sectors, areas within zones deemed by the High Table, only one organization or faction can hold dominance. New York is one of those zones.


    There cannot be two or three, only one. One organization that receives recognition from the High Table and is granted full autonomy over that area.


    When the war was settled eight years ago, we all thought that our families would be set up like the Maggio.


    The Maggio, if you don''t know already from your short stint in Sicily, is an organization made up of a dozen or so mafia families who all work in tandem to form it.


    But Salvatore revealed that he thought the Maggio was flawed, that only one family could truly rule a sector and, on some accounts, he was right.


    The problem was that he wanted to be the boss and he wanted to condense it all into one family under his rule.


    But as you know, leaders lead, they don''t follow. And because of that, another war was about to brew, as every day the mob bosses butted heads.


    Me, however, I saw a way out of this, and it was something that still gives me nightmares to this day.


    Before Salvatore could be acknowledged by the High Table, I had him capped in his restaurant and put a stop to the internal war that was about to erupt.


    But when you make an appointment with the High Table, the only way to miss it is to die. And even then, the one who kills you has to take your place.


    So I went with the goal of structuring some sort of deal with the High Table that didn''t involve the families fighting once more.


    When I say that each of those in the twelve seats were monsters, Slick, I mean it. Even when I was at death''s doorstep, I didn''t shiver the way I did when those pairs of eyes gazed at me.


    It was nerve-wracking, and even now I get goosebumps thinking about it. Hell, I even stuttered out my first couple of words.


    But basically, I proposed a deal, a deal completely in their favor, where all the families would play by the High Table''s rules, follow their every order, and never get in their way but never be recognized.


    The commission was formed not as an alliance, but to ensure that none of us broke any of the High Table''s rules and that we followed them to the letter.


    "Wait, why would they accept that deal, what does that give them?" Ricky interrupted, his curiosity piqued as Lucky poured himself some whisky, letting out a sigh as he leaned back in his chair.


    "If you''d let me f*cking finish, then you''d know that''s exactly what they said-"


    "Why would we consider that proposal, why wouldn''t we wait until you all kill yourselves and one stands atop of them." This guy, I swear, stopped me from breathing as I took a full five minutes to finally answer him with my chest puffed out.


    "Because sooner or later, I''m gonna take over New York and I''m going to lead the families, but I am graciously asking for time." I bowed my head, I ain''t never bowed to no one but I bowed before these powerful people who could literally kill me in a second.


    "So you wish to eliminate all of your compatriots'' families and then join as a recognized organization under our High Table?" This woman asked, her tone laced with this sort of playful hint of amusement. I could''ve sworn she was smiling, but honestly, my ears were ringing so loud from the tension that I couldn''t tell if it was just my nerves playing tricks on me.


    "Yes, I would fully join under the High Table, but I will not move forward without your permission, since this matter directly falls under your control and jurisdiction, and I know my place." I replied, swallowing hard. My voice steadied as I spoke, but the weight of their gaze felt like it could crush me at any moment.


    But I made my stance clear and why wouldn''t I, I''m greedy and ambitious.


    I wanted it all and I think they saw it in that moment, which is why they all rang out their next answers that are still seared into my mind.


    "Why not."


    One of them almost laughed, muttering two words that barely registered in my mind as I felt the weight in my chest dissipate. The moment passed, and suddenly, it was as if I wasn''t even there as the other members started replying to each other, discussing matters between themselves, completely ignoring my presence. "It is a risk, yes, but it is a calculated one. Waiting a couple of years will be far cleaner than dealing with the aftermath of their war."


    "And we really have nothing to lose by letting them figure it out themselves, as long as they follow all our rules."


    "Besides, if you fail, we''ll get the group who survives."


    The air in the room shifted as the decision was made, there was no turning back. The commission was formed, a necessary structure to ensure order and the maintenance of the High Table''s interests. Each family knew their place now, whether by rule or by the understanding that crossing certain lines meant instant obliteration.


    As time went on, the families convened together when something urgent came up, whether it was a violation of the sacred rules or an unexpected power shift. It became a delicate balance of diplomacy, threats, and negotiation, each meeting a quiet reminder of how close they could be to losing it all, how thin the line was that separated them from a blood-soaked war. And occasionally, the families met just to keep up appearances, to remind each other that despite everything, there was still power to be maintained.


    End Of Lucky''s Narration


    "The card I gave you grants access to any continental, just once." Lucky leaned back, his gaze still fixed on Ricky as he weighed his next words.


    "Do the others-"


    "No, I was the only one who got it, and I kept the entire agreement hidden." Lucky already knew Ricky''s answer and swiftly shot it down.


    Sigh


    "I know it might not be as grand as people probably made it out to be or how you thought it would be. I just wanted to make sure you were ready." Lucky teetered in his chair, gazing up at Ricky, looking at the man he had become.


    Honestly, Lucky had never told Ricky the full weight of what he carried, because it was a burden that wasn''t meant for just anyone. It was his torch to carry, a legacy too heavy to pass along easily which is why he bore it alone. For years, Lucky had carried it, protecting the family, maneuvering through the most dangerous of situations, making choices others would shy away from. But now, as he watched Ricky, he realized it was time. Lucky had seen so much potential in him from the beginning as there was always something about Ricky; this charisma, this ability to captivate the room. He could grab people''s attention effortlessly, but there was something missing. Ricky could hold their gaze for a moment, but he never truly led it. He was loud, rebellious, and unruly, traits that kept people at a distance as he had a way of disrupting the calm, of bringing chaos, but never really commanding respect, not at the level of a true leader. People would listen, but only for a fleeting moment before their eyes would shift elsewhere.


    But that had changed.


    As Lucky watched Ricky grow, something within him had shifted and what once seemed like the chaotic, unrefined nature of the young man.


    He sailed away a boy with no idea of what it meant to carry a burden and came back a man ready to shoulder it all. Ricky had faced his challenges, not just from outside enemies but from within, his own uncertainties, his struggles with his place in the world. But each time, he rose above them, he adapted, he learned, and more importantly, he didn''t let those moments of weakness define him and kept pressing forward.


    Lucky could see the change now, he could see it clearly. It wasn''t just about Ricky growing older or more experienced, it was something deeper. It was as though the noise and the rough edges had been tempered by something more solid.


    Ricky wasn''t just surviving; he was evolving into someone that could carry the weight of the family, of the empire, of the legacy. Sure, there were still imperfections, he was still rough around the edges, still learning how to balance it all within the deck of cards, but Lucky could see past all of that.


    What Lucky saw now was something generational. Something that, even Ricky himself couldn''t yet see, but was unmistakable to those who had been around long enough to know. It was a spark, something that could ignite the future in ways that Lucky never could.


    And that was why, in a way, Lucky had already made his decision. It wasn''t just about handing over the reins, it was about recognizing when someone had finally earned their place at the helm. It was about passing that torch, not because it was convenient, but because it was necessary for the family, for the future. Ricky was ready in ways that Lucky never had been, his own battles had been different, and he had fought them in his own way, but it was Ricky who would shape the next chapter of their story.


    So, as Lucky looked at Ricky now, there was no hesitation in his heart as he could finally see the leader in him, the one who would carry the Luciano name with pride and power. It was time to pass on what had been given to him, and with that, ensure the legacy of the Luciano Family would continue.


    "So, what now?" Lucky asked, a hint of amusement in his voice as he watched Ricky return, still pushing forward instead of winding down or celebrating.


    "I think it''s time to finish what was started a long time ago." Ricky chuckled, grabbing the torch and walking toward the door as Lucky tapped his cheek, deep in thought before showing a solemn expression.


    "Slick, about Profaci-"


    "I know, pops, I know." Ricky paused at the doorway, his expression firm as he knew what had to be done as Lucky closed his eyes.


    "Good luck Slick, you''re on your own now."


    Later that night,


    The smoldering of the fireplace rang out in the living room, the crackling sound filling the silence as a single chair faced it as the man sitting in that chair was none other than Joe Profaci.


    Contrary to the confident figure he''d once been, Joe looked considerably worn down, the effects of time and regret taking their toll as he had shed at least forty pounds over the past three years. His once sharp features now seemed dulled, the lines of age more prominent and bags sagged beneath his eyes, a reflection of sleepless nights. His hair, once thick and dark, had thinned significantly, and what remained had already turned a dull grey. But it wasn''t just his appearance that had changed as in his eyes, there was a deep, hollow regret, the kind that haunted him relentlessly. Every crackle of the flames seemed to carry the echoes of his brother''s screams, a sound that would never leave his mind.


    Clink


    Suddenly, the sharp clink of two ice cubes dropping into a bourbon glass broke the stillness of the room. Without a word, Ricky had appeared in the living room, moving with a quiet precision as he poured the dark liquor over the ice. His presence, though unannounced, felt familiar, like it belonged. The glass in his hand shimmered in the firelight, casting fleeting reflections across the room. Joe didn''t look up immediately, lost in his thoughts, but he could feel the shift in the air, the weight of someone who understood without needing an explanation.


    "I knew you''d come, appearing like some sort of grim reaper." Profaci let out a hollow chuckle, wiping his nose with the back of his hand as his pinky ring caught the flicker of the firelight, gleaming for a moment before vanishing back into the shadows. His gaze remained fixed on the flames, his thoughts far away, haunted by memories too painful to speak as old age made regretting so much more deeper than any threat.


    "Ha, I don''t know whether to take that as a compliment or an insult." Ricky smirked, turning around to hand Profaci the glass, his own drink in hand. Profaci took it with a slow nod as he raised the glass to his lips, the burn of the bourbon seemed to match the ache that had settled deep in his chest.


    "They never do." Profaci''s voice was gravelly, his eyes heavy with meaning as he stared at Ricky with an uncertain intensity. Ricky met his gaze, his expression unreadable for a moment and then, unexpectedly, a small chuckle broke the tension, the sound low but genuine, as if they had both shared a private joke they hadn''t realized was there all along.


    "I heard you became the black knight, I also heard you killed a fictional character, the one in the book-"


    "Dracula."


    Snap


    "Yeah, that fella." Profaci snapped his fingers, a flicker of recognition crossing his face as Ricky couldn''t help but chuckle, sipping his drink as he leaned back slightly in the chair across from him.


    "Bet it took an arm and a leg." Profaci said with a wry smile, watching as Ricky took another sip.


    "It did, but in the end, I f*cked his daughter," Ricky joked, causing Profaci to cackle, slapping him on the shoulder.


    "Classic Slick, ha!" Profaci slapped his knee, taking another sip of his bourbon and nodding in amusement.


    That joyous laughter slowly faded, and Profaci''s smile wavered, his fingers absentmindedly fiddling with his pinky ring. His gaze shifted, locking on the flickering flames in the fireplace as the warmth of the fire seemed to diminish the smile that once gleamed on his face as he leaned back in his chair with a heavy sigh.


    "Listen Slick, about what I said before you left-"


    "Profaci stop, you were right, you don''t have to say anything-"


    "But I want to." Profaci said, his voice softening as he gestured to himself, his eyes lingering on Ricky with a warmth that contrasted with the shadows under his gaze. "So humor me, will ya?" Profaci asked, his voice tinged with a sincerity that cut through the usual mockery and he looked at Ricky with this gaze that spoke volumes, a mixture of care, nostalgia, and something deeper, something Ricky hadn''t expected.


    Ricky hesitated for a moment but then nodded, his expression unreadable as he took another sip of his drink.


    "I''m man enough to admit when I''m wrong." Profaci tapped his chest, leaning forward slightly, the glass in his hand now just an accessory as he spoke with a surprising humility with his usual bravado replaced by something more vulnerable, more real.


    "And man, I''m really glad that I was wrong." Profaci gripped the glass tighter, his knuckles white, as his eyes moved from the fire to Ricky. The shift was palpable, for Profaci wasn''t looking at a child anymore, but the real Ricky, the one he always knew, deep down, he could become.


    When Ricky left, he was a complete mess.


    Profaci had seen it in him, the recklessness, the arrogance, the impulsiveness, and deep down, he feared that Ricky would end up dead because of it like so many guys before him. That fear, that gnawing doubt, had always lingered in his chest and despite the harshness, the cutting words, Profaci still cared about Ricky, like a father-in-law cares about a son.


    Back then, Ricky was too young, too naive, too rash. He had that energy, sure, but it was all misdirected and he was a storm, all flash and no direction. But now? Now, there was something different as he was still young, still arrogant, but he wasn''t the same fool who rushed into things without thinking. He had learned to plan, to scheme, to think ahead. He didn''t just put on a show like some circus clown; he orchestrated the crowd, guiding their every move with the subtle flick of his hand, the power of his presence commanding their attention rather than having to direct it with his loud actions.


    Ricky proved he could follow through, and that, more than anything, eased Profaci''s mind.


    Because, despite everything, this had always been about one thing: Maria. Profaci had always kept her at the forefront of his thoughts as his skepticism, his harsh treatment of Ricky, it was all for her, for her safety. Deep down, he couldn''t trust Ricky with Maria, not back then. But now? After seeing what Ricky had become, how he had carried himself through the trials and tribulations, there was a certainty in Profaci''s heart. He wasn''t sure if he could ever fully trust him, but he knew one thing: Ricky had changed and maybe, just maybe, he was worthy of what was always Profaci''s greatest treasure.


    "You know, growing up in Sicily, I never wanted to be a leader, I never wanted to be the boss." Profaci downed the rest of his glass, his gaze fixed on the flickering flames, his eyes distant as if the fire held a memory too old to fade.


    "In fact, I was comfortable and content with being my older brother''s underboss." Profaci laughed, rubbing his thumb against the expressive glass.


    "God, Vinny was such a great man, my older brother." Profaci let out a hollow chuckle, rubbing his hand through his deteriorating hair. "He just had that fire." Profaci words were fierce, recalling how he would spark that thing inside that makes every man want to go wild.


    "He was the type of guy who just captivated your attention, even when you hated him, you just couldn''t look away." Profaci''s gaze grew distant, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips as he reminisced. "God and I know everyone says this but he just had this way, he''d walk into a room, and suddenly, everyone''s all eyes on him, whether they liked it or not." Profaci laughed at this retelling, speaking from not his heart, but his soul as he believed in every single word he said.


    "He knew how to just pull you in and make you feel like you were part of his world, even if he didn''t give a damn about yours. He had this pull, this magnetism, a fire that burned so hot, you couldn''t help but be drawn in." Profaci wiped his mouth, trying to hide the smile while ranting about his older brother''s greatness. "And then, when you thought you had him figured out, when you thought you could finally get a grip on who he was, he''d just slip away, poof, like smoke, leaving you chasing after him." Profaci laughter echoed out through his telling, leaning back before his smile slowly faltered.


    "And I just-...........I just wanted to see the mark he''d make on the world." Profaci''s voice faltered as he rubbed his eyes, then his nose, as if trying to erase the weight of the years that had passed.


    "Y''know, pressure, it changes everything." Profaci chuckled, his words trailing off as he gazed into the fire, his mind clearly lost in the past.


    "Some people, you squeeze them and they focus, but for others, they fold." Profaci gripped his hand tightly for a moment, as if trying to contain the weight of his own memories, before slowly releasing it, the tension in his fingers easing.


    "I never got to see the mark he''d make," Profaci muttered, his voice tight with emotion. "I watched him get ripped apart, piece by piece, and all I could do was just run, run away." Profaci hung his head low, biting his lip as he took a long, steadying breath and even now, couldn''t focus on one thing.


    "I regret it, and I know I shouldn''t." Profaci confessed, his voice barely above a whisper, as if the words themselves carried the weight of years. "I know Vinny would''ve wanted me to live, to carry on, but I regret not dying fighting for my brother, with my brother." Profaci''s eyes remained fixed on the fire, the flickering flames casting shadows over his face, as though they were drawing out the deepest parts of him, those parts he rarely let anyone see.


    "That regret lingered in my affection for my niece, my darling Maria, and it shaped me into the man I am today," Profaci said, his voice steady but heavy with meaning as he set the glass down beside him, the motion deliberate, before his eyes slowly found their way back to Ricky.


    "When we met, you reminded me too much of Vinny," Profaci said, his gaze intense as it locked onto Ricky. "But the thing that scared me was that you always reminded me of myself, in all the wrong ways." Profaci paused, waiting for a response that never came. Ricky remained silent, his eyes steady, giving Profaci the space to speak.


    "Because you got to pay a price for winning," Profaci''s voice was low but firm, his eyes locking with Ricky''s. "Everyone thinks they know, know that with victory comes sacrifice," Profaci said, waving his finger as he chuckled softly, his expression a mix of amusement and resignation.


    "But the thing is, Slick, most people aren''t willing to pay it," Profaci''s words trickled out, deliberate and weighted. "And they may pay it once, but the ones who make their mark in history are the ones who pay it every single day." Profaci held up a finger, pointing it directly at Ricky, his eyes locking with his as if to cement the truth in that single, piercing moment.


    "But even then, that price you pay, every single day, it changes daily." Profaci''s voice softened, yet carried a weight that felt heavier with every word as he leaned forward.


    "The price of winning changes on a daily basis, and you gotta be willing to pay that price, whatever it is on that day." Profaci finished his words of wisdom, his voice steady as the weight of the truth settled in the room.


    "I won''t apologize for what I said to you back then," Profaci''s words were firm, the weight of his past decisions hanging in the air as he gazed at Ricky.


    "You didn''t have the tools, you were too naive, too arrogant, too rash, and too stupid," Profaci said, his voice carrying the weight of truth. He paused for a moment, then smiled slightly, rubbing his thumb over the carvings on his pinky ring.


    "But now you seem to have a whole arsenal around you," Profaci chuckled, his worn-down eyes flicking up to meet Ricky''s, a glimmer of appreciation flashing through them.


    There was no judgment in his gaze now, only a recognition of how far Ricky had come, how much he''d grown, and the dangerous potential he now carried.


    "You''ve grown, you showed your wit, you learned to slow down, and you''re still too arrogant," Profaci said, a small chuckle escaping him as Ricky let out a soft laugh, knowing that part would likely never change.


    "I called you an entertainer, some flashy sideshow, but it seems that you were always the main event, the calling card that people can''t look away from." Profaci said, his gaze drifting up to the ceiling as if lost in thought, a slight smile tugging at his lips.


    "It just took a little longer for you to be unveiled, that''s all." Profaci said, offering a nod of approval as his eyes met Ricky''s once again.


    "I know you''re gonna build something great, and I respect that you''re not gonna let me see it," Profaci said, his tone steady, but with a trace of finality as he already knew today was the day he was going to die.


    "There can only be one boss, one man to lead the mafia, but even so, I knew you''d spare me," Profaci said, his voice distant, as he turned back to the fire. Ricky gripped the glass harder, his eyes narrowing as he watched him.


    "It didn''t have f*cking be like this Profaci, you didn''t have to cross the line-"


    "But I did, I had to teach you one last lesson." Profaci chuckled, clinking his pinky ring on the glass, looking at Ricky.


    "It''s not gonna be now, maybe not tomorrow, but someday, someone you trust completely, in your entirety, will betray you." Profaci seemingly foretold while wiping his mouth, speaking as if from experience.


    "Those people, the ones that betray you, you''re gonna want to let them go, give them another chance." Profaci waved his hand in the air, seemingly dissipating those very words he uttered into existence.


    "But when they betray you and get away with it, they''re only gonna think, ''Wow, he''s just letting me off. Does that mean I can do it again?'' because once you''re a traitor, you''re always a traitor." Profaci laughed, smiling at Ricky while the images of all his friends stabbing him in the back appeared within his mind.


    "Being a leader is f*cking hard. If anyone says differently, they''re wrong. To lead is to make sacrifices, and only cowards try to make compromises." Profaci fixed Ricky with a steady, unwavering gaze, his eyes locking onto him with a weight that seemed to bear down on him.


    "You gotta do, what you gotta do, and nothing else." Profaci''s gaze drifted to his pinky ring, his fingers working it off slowly before he extended it to Ricky as his hand trembled just slightly as he passed it over.


    "It was my brother''s, he gave it to me before he died." Profaci chuckled, parting away as Ricky held the gold ring in his palm.


    "But it, uh, it''s brought me comfort," Profaci smiled warmly at the ring in Ricky''s palm, his gaze softening as he looked at it as the ring had been to hell and back with him.


    "It was a gag gift, since back in the old days, it was for the associates of the mobster who died, with a source of funding for their funeral expenses in case of their death," Profaci explained, shedding light on the significance of pinky rings and gold rings.


    "But it, uh, it''s brought me comfort," Profaci smiled warmly at the ring in Ricky''s palm, his gaze softening as he looked at it as the ring had been to hell and back with him.


    "It was the only thing of value I had coming to America, second to Maria," Profaci chuckled, his eyes distant for a moment as the memories flooded back as Ricky chuckled too, joining in on the moment.


    "I-"


    COUGH


    COUGH


    Profaci suddenly coughed up a mouthful of blood, his hand shakily reaching for the handkerchief in his suit pocket, already stained with dried blood as Ricky''s gaze shifted, his eyes narrowing before really looking at him.


    For the first time, he truly noticed the toll the old man''s condition had taken as the tough, unyielding figure he had known was now slipping away, and it hit Ricky harder than he expected.


    "Oh, don''t look at me like that, like some sad sack or something," Profaci muttered, shaking his head as he wiped the blood from his mouth.


    "How bad?" Ricky ran his hand through his hair, a sigh escaping him as the old mobster simply shook his head.


    "I''m terminal," Profaci said, letting out a slow, somber chuckle, already accepting his fate long before Ricky had arrived.


    "Does Maria and Ninfa know?" Ricky asked, his voice calm but probing since he knew this stubborn old man wouldn''t tell anyone, but he still had to ask as Profaci responded with a sad smile


    "Maria has enough on her plate, and Ninfa, well, I''d like to think she knows, up above in the great beyond," Profaci said, his words carrying an unspoken meaning as Ricky''s eyes widened, the words catching him off guard, leaving him momentarily speechless.


    "She was a Radium girl." Profaci revealed, his voice tinged with sorrow. "It was one of the reasons she could never have kids." Ricky''s head dipped slowly, a deep understanding of the pain behind those words sinking in.


    Even Ricky knew about the Radium Girls from Lucky, who had explained it to him a couple of years back. It was a huge issue, especially back then. The story of the Radium Girls had gained widespread attention in the 1920s and 1930s, as the women filed lawsuits against companies like the United States Radium Corporation, shedding light on the horrors they endured.


    The workers'' legal battles and the tragic nature of their illnesses brought significant media coverage, especially as many of the women suffered visibly horrific symptoms, such as disintegrating jawbones, anemia, and bone fractures.


    The plight of the Radium Girls led to widespread reforms in occupational safety, particularly in handling radioactive materials, and helped establish workers'' rights to sue employers for unsafe working conditions.


    But that didn''t mean the victims got a happily ever after.


    "I-I had no idea-"


    "Well, it was never your business, and besides, Ninfa hated when others looked at her with pity," Profaci shrugged, leaning back in his chair with Ricky mirroring him, reclining into his own seat.


    "So, you really just gonna wipe them all out in one night?" Profaci let out a small sigh, genuinely asking and Ricky nodded, already guessing what he was about to do.


    "I''m not trying to be a dick, but it''s not gonna take more than that." Ricky was honest with Profaci, knowing that compared to Dracula and his forces, he didn''t really need to prepare.


    Ricky did have some semblance of a plan, but in a worst-case scenario, if one of them escaped, he would just act like a bloodhound and sniff them out. However, Ricky didn''t want to wipe them all out on his own; he wanted to include the Luciano family. The reason was simple: Ricky not only wanted to prove he was capable of leading them, but he also wanted to make sure each mobster had a hand in this war so they could feel included.


    He understood that power wasn''t just about holding the reins; it was about forging unity within the ranks. By making sure each of them played a role, he would solidify his position as a leader who valued loyalty and collaboration. It wasn''t just about taking control, it was about giving them a reason to follow him willingly, ensuring they felt like they had a stake in the outcome.


    "So the pinkertons-"


    "Yep, they were after me at first, but I flipped them from Joe." Ricky smirked, a hint of pride in his voice as Profaci let out a hollow laugh, shaking his head.


    "I was wondering who gave those boys the nerve, but of course, it was a little punk." Profaci chuckled, but the humor quickly faded as the atmosphere turned heavy with silence.


    "Listen Slick, about Maria-"


    "Don''t worry, Profaci, I''m going to take care of her. She''ll never have to worry about anything ever again." Ricky reassured him, but as Profaci''s eyes drifted to the ceiling, his body seemed to grow weaker by the second, the weight of his time catching up to him.


    "You''re a great man, Profaci, and you did a great job protecting Maria while I was gone." Ricky slowly set the glass aside, his eyes never leaving Profaci''s figure as the old mobster''s body began to grow stiff. The glass slipped from his hand and shattered, the sound almost deafening in the stillness of the room.


    "But I''m here now, so you can rest easy." Ricky stood over Profaci, his expression a mix of resolve and conflict, as the old man offered a faint, weary smile.


    This was the best he could do for Profaci, paying back all the kindness he had ever shown Ricky, and giving him the peaceful death he deserved.


    "I-I will." A tear slipped from Profaci''s eye as he raised his hand, gazing at the vision before him, his beloved Ninfa and his big brother Vinny, smiling and waving, beckoning him to come towards them.


    Then, his hand fell limp at his side as the final glimmer of life faded from his eyes as Ricky gently reached over and closed them.


    Ricky stood in silence, turning toward the fire and gazing into it for a long while.


    There were many things he wasn''t, burdened by flaws that could never be erased, but one thing was certain.


    Ricky was no longer the coward who failed to step up when it mattered, nor the boy who once ran from tragedy.


    He had left as a boy and returned as a man, his eyes hardened with the resolve to face whatever lay ahead, he was ready.


    Slowly, he slipped the pinky ring onto his finger, the weight of it settling like a quiet promise.


    In this city, there was no room for more than one boss, no space for more than one family.


    And now, with every toll paid and every blade sharpened, Ricky was finally ready to claim his place.


    As Ricky walked out of the mansion, not a single mobster dared to speak and one by one, they dropped their guns to the ground.


    They surrendered in silence, showering Ricky with their unspoken defeat as his footsteps carried him through the growing pile of weapons that gathered in his path.


    The final order Profaci had given was clear that if his life was taken, they would answer to the one who took it and Profaci had always known Ricky would come for him.


    "Boss, the Profaci family has surrendered. What should we do-" Johnny hurried up to Ricky, his words trailing off as Ricky kept walking toward the car.


    "Gather the boys. New York burns tonight," Ricky ordered without a hint of hesitation. He knew that the city would burn today, but tomorrow, it would be reborn with him at its center.


    Johnny''s eyes widened for a brief moment, but he gave a sharp nod before rushing off to carry out the command.


    As Ricky opened the car door, he caught the reflection of the Profaci family members standing still, uncertain, not knowing what to do next.


    "If any of you still want to live and be a mobster, then go home, barricade your doors, and show up at Italians tomorrow!" Ricky yelled, his voice sharp and commanding. His presence alone sent a chill down the spines of the men, who exchanged nervous glances before bolting in every direction, desperate to escape.


    The car ride was slow, Ricky resting his hand on the window as the driver took him toward a warehouse that housed all the Luciano family members.


    But when they arrived, Lucky and Meyer were nowhere to be found as Frank stood off to the side, his presence only raising more questions. The tension in the air was thick, as everyone wondered who could have called this meeting if it wasn''t the head of the family.


    Click


    Click


    Click


    The sharp click of dress shoes echoed through the warehouse, cutting through the hushed whispers that filled the space as every gaze turned, drawn to the source of the sound.


    It was then that Ricky''s presence revealed itself to the gathered crowd, his silhouette emerging from the shadows as he walked toward the center, the light above shining down upon him.


    This was the same warehouse where it had all begun, three and a half years ago, the same place where he had killed Detective Albert and officially joined the Luciano family.


    That wonderful day where everything changed.


    But today was different as the air wasn''t filled with wonder or surrounding chants; instead, it was thick with unease. Every pair of eyes darted around, uncertain of where their fate now lay and slowly, though, those eyes began to focus entirely on Ricky.


    He didn''t speak, yet they couldn''t look away. "I know what you''re all thinking, ''What is this mutant doing here''!" Ricky yelled out, his voice booming in the warehouse.


    It wasn''t exactly a secret within the Luciano family, though it was always kept under wraps but still, it unsettled quite a few of the mobsters.


    What kept their mentality neutral, however, was the fact that Ricky was also the Black Knight, a title that made up for any hostility they might have harbored toward him being a mutant.


    "I know many of you think I was supposed to leave, to scurry away, but I''m here to tell you one thing and one thing only!" Ricky paced around, raising a finger in the air before spreading his arms wide.


    "I ain''t going nowhere!" Ricky declared, his smile widening as he looked out at the shocked mobsters.


    "For too long, the families have bickered amongst themselves, dividing the underworld with these meaningless squabbles that lead to nothing but young men dead in the streets!" Ricky clenched his fist, his passion evident as he spoke as to the side, Alexander nodded, his furry chin raised high.


    They had been practicing speeches, and right now, Ricky was showcasing every bit of that preparation, delivering his words with a raw intensity that commanded attention.


    "Aren''t you all tired? Tired of fighting against the guys you grew up with, ending up in a different place just ''cause you were born a couple boroughs over!" Ricky asked, gesturing toward the Italian men who stood in silence, eyes locked on him.


    This was true, in fact as many of the members of the families had grown up alongside each other, yet their entire lives had been shaped by the boroughs they were born into.


    So many of these men had fought against old friends, gone up against their own cousins, all because of an invisible divide that ran through New York.


    "Because I''m tired! I''M F*CKING SICK OF IT!" Ricky roared, his voice shaking the air. In an instant, his sovereignty aura erupted, a green tide swirling around him, filling the room with an overwhelming force.


    The air seemed to leave the mobsters as they stared at Ricky, a mixture of shock and horror etched across their faces as his power was on full display, and yet he held it back just enough to prevent them from passing out under its intensity.


    "I''M SICK OF HAVING MEANINGLESS FIGHTS OVER SUCH SMALL PORTIONS THAT IT DRIVES ME F*CKING CRAZY!" Ricky shouted, his aura flaring even further, his voice crashing into each and every one of the men.


    "BUT LIKE ANYONE ELSE, I WANT IT ALL, ALL THOSE PORTIONS NO MATTER HOW SMALL, DON''T YOU?!" Ricky roared, his voice thundering through the room as he gestured toward the men.


    Their eyes, filled with hunger, met his as each one yearned for something more, something beyond what they''d already been given, just like any other man.


    "I''m greedy, and I''m selfish!" Ricky lowered his voice, his words cutting through the silence as he preached to the mobsters, who had no choice but to listen, captivated by the raw power in his tone.


    "I am the Black Knight, and I am a mutant!" Ricky declared, holding out his hand. In response, the ebony blade flew into his grip, and as he grasped it, his entire body was enveloped in armor as his green aura flared, crackling with power as the air around him seemed to pulse.


    "But at my core, I''m Ricky Luciano!" Ricky declared, raising his sword high. He locked eyes with the mobsters, their faces unreadable, but the tension in the air was palpable.


    "I''m not going to tell you to do anything, and I ain''t gonna force you to follow," Ricky''s voice dropped low, but then his eyes blazed with red electricity, crackling with intensity as every man in the room heard his words loud and clear.


    "But it''s time for a new age, a new era, to enter New York''s underworld!" Ricky roared, his voice shaking the very air. The mobsters, caught in the surge of his power, felt their hearts thump in their chests, a mix of respect and anticipation flooding through them.


    "One where it''s dedicated to the Luciano Family and only for the Luciano Family!" Ricky''s words etched themselves into the minds of the men around him, each syllable reverberating through the room like a declaration of dominance.


    "ARE YOU WITH ME? ARE YOU GOING TO BE A PART OF HISTORY OR STAY BEHIND AND WATCH IT UNFOLD?!" Ricky yelled, his voice booming as he locked eyes with each mobster as he knew that none of this would work unless the family stood behind him, united in the cause.


    "TONIGHT, THE OTHER FAMILIES FALL!" Ricky roared, his aura towering around him, its power rising without crushing the mobsters beneath it, instead empowering them, fueling their anticipation for what was to come.


    "TONIGHT, NEW YORK BURNS, AND WITH IT, THE LUCIANO FAMILY RISES!" Ricky shouted, his gesture sweeping toward the other mobsters, the weight of his words igniting a fire in their eyes.


    "ARE YOU WITH ME? ARE YOU GOING TO BE A PART OF HISTORY OR STAY BEHIND AND WATCH IT UNFOLD?!" Ricky yelled, his voice booming as he locked eyes with each mobster as he knew that none of this would work unless the family stood behind him, united in the cause.


    "WHO''S WITH ME?!" Ricky roared, the red electricity pulsing with his swirling green aura, crackling through the room. The mobsters stood still for a moment, eyes locked on him, each man weighing the choice before them.


    They all knew who Ricky was, and that''s what scared them but witnessing this momentous display of power, seeing this new side of him, sparked something within them.


    A thought, a vision, the sight of a tomorrow that belonged only to the Luciano family. A tomorrow where they would be part of something bigger, something that, at their core, everyone craved. The desire to belong to something greater than themselves, to leave their mark on history.


    "SLICK, SLICK, SLICK!" Johnny stood up, his voice ringing through the warehouse, chanting Ricky''s name. One by one, the mobsters joined in, their roars building in volume, their allegiance now clear as the air crackled with energy, the Luciano family united behind its new leader.


    "SLICK!"


    "SLICK!"


    "SLICK!"


    The cheers that echoed through the warehouse mirrored those of the past, but this time, it was different. They weren''t cheering at Ricky, they were cheering for him.


    They weren''t just spectators anymore; they were part of the act. No longer was Ricky a passing sight, someone you glanced at before returning to your duties.


    Not anymore.


    Now, you couldn''t look away, even if you wanted to and Ricky had become something that demanded your attention, something that commanded all eyes to focus solely on him.


    "TONIGHT WE MAKE HISTORY, TONIGHT WE PLUNGE THIS CITY INTO CHAOS SO THAT TOMORROW, WE STAND BEFORE THIS CITY, THIS WORLD, AS ONE!" Ricky shouted, his voice carrying the weight of the revolution he was about to ignite, his words searing into the hearts of the mobsters around him.


    "AS THE LUCIANO FAMILY!"

 Chapter 143: Chapter 138: The Head Of The Luciano Family

    143  Chapter 138: The Head Of The Luciano Family


    In the dead of night,


    BOOM


    A massive explosion erupted in the heart of New York, a towering inferno that drew the terrified gazes of countless pupils from every corner of the city.


    The sight was nothing short of apocalyptic, a grim reflection of the chaos that was to come, a harbinger of the complete destruction of everything they had ever known.


    As the fiery spectacle consumed the skyline, it symbolized more than just the obliteration of the present.


    Today would be annihilated, leaving behind nothing but memories, while tomorrow loomed as an uncharted frontier, shrouded in uncertainty and devoid of the familiar.


    No one could predict what lay ahead in this new world forged from the violence of another.


    It was why families clung to each other in fear, mothers clutching their children tightly in the depths of their homes, often hiding away in closets or basements.


    Meanwhile, husbands and fathers stood at the frontlines of their homes, behind closed doors, armed with whatever they could find to protect the ones they loved.


    Outside, the city was a battleground, blood staining the streets and yet, amidst the carnage, the only ones who dared to roam the streets were mobsters, staking their claim in the lawless night, oblivious or indifferent to the desperate struggles happening behind closed doors.


    The families, once steadfast in maintaining their distinct territories, now found themselves slowly seeping into each other''s grounds.


    The territorial lines blurred as this shift allowed mobsters to cross the thresholds of what they once considered their own, staking new claims in a rapidly changing landscape.


    Among them, the Luciano family, stirred to their fullest fervor, walked down the street with a determined stride.


    On the horizon stood those who had dared to challenge them, ready for the inevitable confrontation that loomed like a storm on the brink of breaking.


    Johnny, who had started as nothing more than a mere grunt, had transformed into a man standing at the forefront of the looming battle.


    Once a boy who killed his mentor for his boss, he now embodied the ferocity of the Luciano family''s ambitions as his young hands wrapped around the handle of his gun.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The roars of young men bellowed, charging forth at each other with tommy guns gripped tightly in their arms.


    Bullets sprayed from the muzzles, cutting through the night air with deadly precision.


    The mobsters, instead of standing with resolve, found themselves overwhelmed by fear as they faced the relentless onslaught of the Luciano family.


    Tonight, New York City has officially transformed into a warzone.


    The families, once steadfast in their territories, now scrambled to defend against the insatiable hunger of the Luciano family, threatening to consume everything in its path.


    BOOM


    "Dammit, Joe, do you see what''s happening out there? Look!" Carlo yelled, yanking the blinds open to reveal the carnage unfolding in the city.


    His voice was actually trembling with uncharacteristic urgency, a stark contrast to his usual carefree and hateful demeanor.


    Right now, Carlo was in a hazardous state, teetering on the edge of snapping.


    The only thing keeping him grounded was the presence of the other mob bosses, wanting to keep his pride in front of the many others he considered his equals.


    But even now, he found that his eyes darted to the little lights flashing in the distance, each one signaling bullets tearing through the night.


    Watching the smoke rise steadily from all the explosions taking root, knowing that his family was out there being torn to shreds and yet, he was here.


    "Listen, I have a last-ditch plan that, if it works, can settle this matter once and for all. I just need everyone''s cooperation." Joe tried to smile, but it came out twisted, almost psychotic, as the others looked at him with unsteady faces, their expressions filled with doubt and fear.


    That calm exterior, the facade he always maintained to hide his wicked nature, was crumbling.


    His demeanor was disheveled, his eyes wild with madness, no longer attempting to conceal his true attitude as it made everyone a little unnerved.


    "Where the hell is Profaci-"


    Cough


    Cough


    "I''m here."


    The door to the side opened, revealing a coughing Profaci, who tucked his handkerchief into his suit pocket.


    Joe''s eyes lit up with a crazed intensity as he immediately stood up, slamming his hands on the table.


    "Profaci, good, good, you''re here," Joe exclaimed, his voice charged with manic energy as he scanned the room, taking in the remaining mob bosses seated around the table, all except for Lucky.


    "Here''s what we do, while using Maria as bait we-" Joe almost laughed, his eyes returning to Profaci while gazing at him as if he was nothing more than a tool for him to use.


    "JOE, ARE YOU F*CKING NUTS!" Tommy roared, disbelief etched across his face as he slammed his fist on the table as the other mob bosses shook their heads, their expressions a mix of shock and exasperation.


    "PROFACI IS RIGHT THERE AND-"


    Click


    The roar from Tommy''s mouth shrank at the sudden faint click as the entire room went dead silent within the span of a mere second.


    Joe''s eyes were crazed but his hand was steady, his fingers wrapped around the cold grip of the revolver, the barrel pointed directly at Tommy.


    "Desperate times call for desperate measures, you fools," Joe''s voice rang out, dripping with madness.


    His eyes were wild, his grip on the revolver tightening as he gestured toward the window where Carlo had opened the blinds.


    "If you don''t believe me, look outside."


    The room remained tense, every pair of eyes shifting toward the window as the chaotic scene was forced upon them in all its glory.


    The view was undeniable; a hellscape of fire, smoke, and gunfire as the echoes of violence could be heard even through the thick glass, the sound of bodies hitting the pavement, the sharp crack of gunfire, and no distant wail of sirens accompanied this horror within the night.


    "You all want to sit on your paper thrones, then fine, be my guest," Joe sneered, his laughter echoing in the room, hollow and unnerving as his arms spread wide, mocking the others, the weight of his frustration clear in his twisted grin.


    "But let''s just face the facts, we have nothing against the Luciano family." Joe''s voice dropped into a chilling calm, his jaw tightening as the weight of his own words hit him like a slap as the room seemed to grow colder, the reality sinking in.


    "Look at the streets, look at this goddamn city. It''s all coming apart. And you''re all too proud to accept that we''re no better than the rats hiding in the f*cking sewers." Joe wiped his face, trying to mask his own self-loathing in his tone while the mob bosses all slowly ducked their heads.


    "They have the numbers, the guns, the backers. We don''t need a coordinated plan. What we need is leverage, and the key to it all walked through that front door." Joe gestured towards Profaci, who stood calmly at the side, observing the scene unfolding before him.


    "It''s only a matter of time before Slick swallows everything whole and finds us, we need to keep him at bay!" Joe yelled, his voice filled with desperation as the tension in the room was thick, the mob bosses sitting in stunned silence, eyes downcast, each man avoiding eye contact before the truth hit them all at once, and Joe''s words cut deep into their pride.


    "Then are we all in agreement, huh?" Joe raised his hand fanatically, his eyes darting from one mob boss to another, desperate for a sign of support.


    He could feel the pressure mounting as he scanned their faces, each man displaying a mix of skepticism, hesitation, and, in some cases, pity for Profaci.


    "Sorry Joe, it''s not personal." Tommy, who had just moments before tried to argue, held up his hand, signaling his decision.


    "Ha~" Profaci let out a small breath, shaking his head before covering his eyes with one hand.


    "You''re all just-"


    SNORT


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Profaci let out hysterical laughter, his voice echoing off the walls, as the other mob bosses exchanged confused glances.


    "God, you''re all so f*cking predictable. I mean, you guys always do this," Profaci said, his tone carrying a mixture of incredulity and disdain.


    "You all mouth off about how to solve the problem, but every, single, time, you give in to whatever the f*ck this crazy bastard says. Literally every time," Profaci continued, shaking his head in disbelief.


    "It''s like watching the same damn reruns of a dumb show I know the ending to, over and over, even when I''m looking at it through another pair of eyes." Profaci scoffed before showing a sleazy smile, Joe''s eyes shrinking at this display as if it was impossible.


    "But thank god it''s not personal Tommy, since this will be a lot easier." Profaci raised his gaze, a sinister glint in his eyes.


    To the horror of everyone in attendance, his form began to shift and contort and slowly, to the absolute terror of the mob bosses, Ricky emerged before them in his full glory.


    His face settled into that all-too-familiar sleazy smile, his arms spread wide at his complete transformation.


    "Tada~" Ricky waved his hands, his eyes forming into crescent moons at their faces all registering that this was actually real.


    The room was immediately filled with a palpable fear, the mobsters frozen in shock at the horrifying transformation that had just taken place before their very eyes.


    "Oh man, I can''t believe it took three years to get the old gang back together." Ricky smiled warmly, planting a heart on his chest and over dramatizing the moment to give them time to let their shock dissipate.


    " And let me be the first to say, that you all look like sh*t-"


    BANG


    BANG


    BANG


    Three bullets shot towards Ricky, but he only rolled his eyes, raising a shimmering barrier that effortlessly deflected them.


    The bullets clattered to the ground, their shells echoing in the tense silence of the room as Ricky shook his head.


    "Seriously-"


    BANG


    BANG


    BANG


    CLICK


    CLICK


    Joe continued firing, gnashing his teeth as sweat trickled down his forehead, until the revolver clicked, signaling there were no more bullets left to fire as his hands trembled, the empty gun still pointed at Ricky, whose barrier shimmered mockingly in front of him.


    "S-S-Slick!" Carlo yelped, the sound of the bullets jolting him from his stupor as he stumbled back in his chair, frantically scooting away as Ricky snapped his fingers, a cold smile curling on his lips.


    "The one and only," Ricky chuckled, his voice echoing ominously as he trapped the room in a shimmering barrier.


    "But your-......then that means-" Tommy spoke the words of the entire commission thought, his presence meaning one thing as Ricky grabbed a seat.


    "Profaci is dead," Ricky declared, plopping down in the chair and lounging in it while gazing at the mob bosses before him.


    The irony hung heavy in the air; once, they all sat at this table as equals to Lucky, and now, they weren''t even in the same league, unable to even have the privilege to sit down.


    "So what, you came to negotiate or something?" Carlo stammered, his voice trembling as he stood up, trying to hold some semblance of authority despite the growing terror in his eyes.


    Ricky leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable, as if he were almost amused by Carlo''s futile attempt at control.


    "Not exactly, well, not at all," Ricky said, taking a moment to think it over as his gaze swept across all the bosses and underbosses seated around the table.


    "Slick, please, listen-KUERK!" Tommy tried to explain, stepping toward Ricky, who remained an iron clad hold.


    Tommy struggled in Ricky''s grasp, his strength no match for Ricky''s overwhelming force as he clawed at his fingers, desperately trying to pry them off, but it was futile.


    "I honestly don''t want to listen to a single f*cking word, but don''t worry, it''s not personal," Ricky chuckled, his hand tightening around Tommy''s neck, forcing their eyes to meet, before abruptly tossing him aside. Tommy tumbled backward, crashing to the ground in a heap.


    GASP


    Tommy tumbled backward, crashing to the ground in a heap before letting out a long drawn out gasp, his underboss coming to his aid.


    Immediately, all the bosses and underbosses began chattering relentlessly, their voices overlapping like a flock of squawking birds.


    They shouted at Ricky, desperate, hoping their words might do something, anything, while he sat there, unbothered and composed, watching their helplessness unfold within his green eyes.


    But Joe knew full well that if Ricky had killed Profaci, there was no chance he would be spared.


    Resolute, he walked over to Ricky and amidst all their eyes, Joe fell to his knees before Ricky, who remained seated, gazing down at him with a cold, unwavering stare.


    "I know what I did to you deserves everything coming, but all I ask is to leave our families out of this," Joe pleaded, bending down and clutching Ricky''s shoes, his forehead touching the tips of his dress shoes while hiding his gaze that was desperate and silent.


    The squawking birds shut their beaks at this impromptu display, but after witnessing Vinny''s fate, Joe understood the gravity of the situation.


    They were like bowling pins, lined up and ready to be knocked down, the only sound left to make would be a loud crash as the bowling ball collided with them.


    It was over.


    They could delude themselves into thinking otherwise, but Joe, even though he didn''t want to admit it, was crazy enough to understand that conversations were no longer an option.


    He would die here, they would all die here, and the only thing Joe could do to let a part of himself live was beg for Ricky''s mercy.


    It was hypocritical, it was shameless, but sometimes, the very traits that shaped someone into a great leader could also be their greatest weakness, turning them into the very thing they sought to avoid.


    "We all have what''s coming to us," Joe''s voice cracked, a rare vulnerability breaking through the hardened exterior.


    "But think about our wives, our kids. And as a father yourself, can''t you find it in your heart to let it go after us?" Joe, the man who had never shown emotion before to any of these men, bowed his head completely, a final plea, the kind of desperation no one had ever seen from him.


    He was begging as a stark contrast to the cold, calculating figure that had just ruled the room seconds before.


    Ricky''s gaze swept across the commission bosses, observing each one as they bowed their heads in silent surrender.


    It was a slow and arduous process but slowly, their pride had shattered, and now before Ricky they were nothing.


    Their lives, once filled with power and authority, hung in the balance, entirely within his grasp.


    At that moment, the truth hit them all with brutal clarity; all the power, the influence, the years of bloodshed and control, they were meaningless now.


    Their names, once feared and respected, were nothing more than empty echoes in the face of Ricky''s rise.


    The walls of their empire had crumbled, and with it, the illusion of invincibility.


    Outside the room, the city burned, and in here, they were no more than pawns, vulnerable and exposed as the game had changed, and they were no longer the players.


    The room was heavy with the realization that their fates had already been sealed, and all that was left was for Ricky to decide when and how their end would come.


    "Yeah, how about no," Ricky muttered, his voice icy and deliberate as the words sliced through the tension, freezing the men in place before grabbing Joe by the hair, yanking him upward, forcing him to meet his gaze.


    "C''mon bananas, you can''t actually believe that I''d fall for that crap?" Ricky asked, seeing that crazed look stare him in the face, the very same one he had been trying to hide.


    "I just pointed out the pattern five seconds ago, you f*cking dumbass," Ricky sneered, his grip tightening as he held Joe by the hair. "


    You say something crazy, they''re in disbelief, then they agree with you, and finally, you get your way." Ricky laughed in Joe''s face, enjoying the irony of it all, knowing this was exactly what he had predicted.


    "Don''t you all get it?" Ricky laughed, his voice dripping with mockery.


    "Me coming here was never about you. It was always about me." Ricky chuckled even harder, watching the expressions of the mobsters shift as the weight of his words sank in.


    "I had to leave for three years, isolated while my girls had to raise my children while thinking I just left, and maybe deep down I did." Ricky''s eyes turned black in front of Joe, whose breath became ragged.


    "I''ll give you the benefit that because of all your actions, I came back a better man, I came back whole." Ricky grabbed Joe''s neck before throwing him over the table and into the other bosses.


    "But all I have to say to you, to all of you, is three words." Ricky held up three fingers, savoring the moment he had been dreaming about ever since he sailed back to New York.


    "Go f*ck yourself." Ricky spread out his hands, looking towards the bosses before him who were nothing but cattle waiting to be slaughtered.


    "Everything your families own, be it legitimate or illegal, will be mine." Ricky listed off, pacing around the room and circling them as if they were his prey.


    "The houses they live in and the money in which they lavishly spend, mine!" Ricky raised his voice, reveling in the looks of utter disbelief on their faces as his laughter grew even more crazed.


    "NEW YORK''S UNDERBELLY, THE VERY SAME YOU ALL DIVIDED AMONGST YOURSELVES AND SQUABBLED OVER, WILL ROLL OVER TO ME BECAUSE THIS CITY WILL BE F*CKING MINE!" Ricky yelled at the bosses, smiling as he stood before them as powerful as ever.


    Because the strong get to dictate what the weak do, and he had all the power now.


    "I will consume every last bite of what is in front of me, then eat some more, because I f*cking can." Ricky waved his finger at them, tossing the table aside with a single motion as he turned his gaze toward the mobsters along with Joe who scrambled backwards before backing up against the invisible wall, their fear palpable.


    "Profaci was right," Ricky murmured, his tone dripping with disdain as he slowly paced in front of Joe.


    "People like you, like them, are just sharks circling, waiting for me to show a sign of weakness, waiting for a drop of blood to entice them into attacking me, and I''m sure as hell not giving any of you openings." Ricky leaned in, his fingers lightly patting Joe''s cheek as the latter flinched, a smile curling on his lips at the reaction.


    "Just like with my case, there has to be a precedent," Ricky chuckled, but his tone was completely hollow.


    "An example of what happens when you go against the natural order, my natural order." Ricky issued and without warning, he gripped Joe''s jaw with a vice-like hold, squeezing down hard enough that the bones creaked beneath his fingers.


    Ricky''s eyes turned pitch black, a void of darkness that seemed to swallow everything in its path.


    Joe''s breath hitched as his eyes widened in terror, the horror of what was happening dawning on him as the grip tightened, cutting off his air.


    "It''s unfortunate, but all of you have to be that example." Ricky murmured, his tone cold and unfeeling.


    Without warning, he crushed Joe''s jaw completely in his hand, the sickening crack of bone resonating in the air.


    Then, with a savage yank, he pulled Joe''s jaw back, the tearing of flesh and muscle echoing throughout the room as he wrenched it free.


    Splat


    Immediately, a torrent of blood splattered onto the ground beneath Joe, his tongue dangling uselessly from his now mangled mouth.


    He collapsed backwards, his hands patting his face frantically, trying to stop the bleeding, but blood soaked his palms in an instant.


    His eyes went wide in shock, gazing down at the horror at the stark color of crimson that slathered onto his hands.


    The pain hit him with brutal intensity, searing through his body like fire, every nerve screaming in agony as the world around him blurred.


    "THpspssss-" Joe tongue flailed about along with his body, trying to convey the words of mercy that never came.


    "Please Slick, please I beg ya don''t do this-"


    SPLAT


    A puncture hole appeared in Tommy''s stomach, and through the gaping wound, the view of the other mobsters flickered in and out as he collapsed to his knees, his hands instinctively clutching the bleeding wound as Ricky stood motionless, his hand outstretched.


    "Aye, don''t beg for mercy now, you all are the ones who started it, bringing up family and loved ones, it''s only poetic that I''d do the same." Ricky snapped his fingers, lines being forcibly carved all around the wood as the veins in his eyes expanded into black.


    The veins around his eyes darkened, expanding into inky blackness, as the room seemed to close in around the trembling mobsters.


    The mob bosses looked around, huddling backward as the space filled with a low, sinister whispering that reverberated from all directions.


    A thick, cloying mist crept along the floor, clinging to their legs as if it had a mind of its own signaling that the ritual had begun.


    In a frantic attempt to escape, the mobsters scattered in different directions, running aimlessly around the confined space like headless chickens.


    But their panic was cut short as a dead body suddenly dropped from above, hitting the floor with a sickening thud.


    Thump


    "N-Nitti?" Carlo whispered in recognition, his voice shaky as he gazed at the lifeless body of Nitti, his face frozen in a look of pure horror.


    "YOU BA-AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    All words were suddenly disrupted as one by one, their bodies began to betray them when the engravings started to glow all around them.


    Their fingers started twitching uncontrollably, their muscles tensing and contorting, and their skin grew clammy, taking on a sickly, waxen color.


    "W-WHA_AHHHHH!" Carlo yelped, feeling something foreign writhing under his own skin, as if threads of some dark magic were sewing them together from the inside out.


    "S-Stop this, I SAID STOP!" Carlo shouted, but his voice came out in a strained rasp, barely more than a whisper.


    But their pleas would forever fall on deaf ears, overtaken by the growing, resonant hum of the ritual.


    Shadows seemed to peel off the walls, swirling toward them, each shadow carrying whispers from the damned.


    These ethereal wisps burrowed into their skin like hundreds of spectral needles, slowly stitching their bodies into a grotesque, connected mass.


    They all tried to stumble away, only to find themselves rooted to the spot below them as their feet sank into the mist, merging, binding them to one another.


    Carlo gasped in agony as his arm, no longer his own, twisted and reformed, morphing into something monstrous like some sort of twisted appendage that fused with the shoulder of the underboss beside him.


    Hands melded, fingers stretched and split, becoming claws that joined with the limbs of others, forming a horrid, pulsating mass of flesh and bone.


    Their cries of terror grew louder, but they became twisted, entangled with each other''s voices as their throats merged and their faces contorted.


    Eyes shifted, slipping across faces, then popping up in unnatural places with their mouths gaped open, screaming, only to close as they were swallowed into the growing, monstrous form.


    The mob bosses felt their minds slipping, scattering like shards of broken glass as their individual identities were drowned out in a tide of merging memories and fractured thoughts.


    Faces rose and fell within the shifting mass, flashes of terror and rage visible for brief moments before being consumed by the growing horror.


    Finally, the transformation halted and Ricky''s revenge had taken root.


    Where once stood the most feared men in the city now loomed the Corpse Colossus; a massive, horrific amalgamation of broken men, fused into a creature driven by mindless hunger and the echoes of their collective agony.


    Their bodies had become twisted weapons, clawed limbs and sharpened ribs protruding, eyes rolling in sunken sockets that appeared and disappeared across the surface of its grotesque body.


    Ding


    (Legendary Undead) Corpse Colossus: Towering at nearly twice the height of any man, this servant is a horrifying entity of fused flesh, sinew, and bone. Its body is a chaotic tapestry of partially preserved faces, grasping hands, and twitching limbs, each limb and feature haunted by vestiges of its previous owners.


    Abilities:


    Flesh Assimilation: When the Corpse Colossus defeats a living being, it can absorb the corpse, merging it into its own flesh. This grants it new limbs, eyes, or mouths, enhancing its physical power and senses. The absorbed parts retain a faint trace of the individual''s consciousness, adding to the creature''s maddening chorus of voices.


    Recomposing Limb Arsenal: The Corpse Colossus can reshape its body to form weapons from its twisted anatomy; bladed arms, spiked maces, or skulls with snapping jaws. It can even tear off an arm to hurl it as a living projectile and act on its own but will die if not returned to the main body.


    Screams of the Damned: The Colossus can release a terrifying scream from the souls it has absorbed, causing fear, confusion, and paralysis in its enemies. Those who hear it may be haunted by visions of its past victims.


    "M-Master~" The Corpse Colossus rasped, its voice a distorted symphony of the mob bosses'' echoes, each syllable a blend of fear and obedience.


    Opening the portal to the side, the Corpse Colossus responded without hesitation, its grotesque form lurching forward.


    Its flesh slithered across the floor, leaving a trail of its new slime before vanishing into the black mist of the portal and as the last of the creature disappeared, Ricky stood alone in the room.


    He sank back into the chair, his eyes drifting upward, but there was no emotion in his gaze, just this sort of emptiness.


    After everything that had transpired, after everything he did nothing seemed to stir within him.


    The weight of the actions, the lives lost, it all felt distant, almost irrelevant as he had claimed everything, and yet, the complete satisfaction he might have expected was absent.


    It wasn''t guilt that weighed on Ricky, but rather the absence of the satisfaction he had anticipated.


    After all that had transpired, after taking everything he had desired, he thought there would be at least something.


    Three years ago, when he first donned the mantle of the Black Knight and slaughtered those three families with such brutality, he had felt something; a gut-wrenching sickness, a twisted recognition of the monstrous act he had just committed as if unable to accept that very fact.


    Back then, the power, the violence, it had unsettled him momentarily, disturbed him to his core.


    Now, after all the bloodshed, the terror, the twisted victories, Ricky had become numb.


    The line between the man he once was and the monster he had molded himself into had blurred, leaving only what he had become.


    When he killed those mob bosses, giving them a fate far worse than death, a spectacle that outshone any brutality he had ever displayed, Ricky felt nothing except this faint little tinge.


    It was as if his own subconscious whispered to him, faint and distant, that perhaps he had gone too far.


    The thought was there, but it was barely noticeable, like a fleeting echo in the back of his mind, one he could easily ignore.


    Nonetheless, Ricky stood, his feet clicking sharply against the cold floor as he walked toward the window, staring out at the burning skyline of New York, now his to control.


    Flames reflected in his eyes, but within them, there was no spark of victory, only the eerie calm of a man who had achieved everything, only to realize that the cost was more than he ever anticipated.


    It could end right here.


    The bosses were dead, their power snatched from them, and the entire city was now within his grasp.


    Ricky could stop the war, cease the senseless bloodshed that stained the streets he had watched from his window as he could put an end to it all, right now.


    But that wasn''t the reality of the situation.


    "If only it was that f*cking simple." Ricky whispered, his cold eyes gazing down at one of his own grunt being shot in the street, bleeding out as his blood stained the road beneath him.


    Ruling New York wasn''t just about having the power to crush his enemies, it was about controlling an environment where opposition would always find a way to rise.


    He couldn''t simply put out the flames of conflict as these families, these gangs, had to burn to the ground under the weight of the Luciano family''s wrath.


    Only then, after the ashes settled, would they be ready to rebuild, their foundation reshaped in his image.


    Those grunts, those cannon fodder who had blindly laid down their lives in the hope of gaining power through Ricky''s rule, needed to feel something more.


    They needed to feel like they were part of the empire, not just pawns in a game they barely understood.


    They needed to taste the glory of the world Ricky was building, not simply the scraps of power they had been promised.


    He wanted them to imagine the marble roads they would lay down under his feet, gleaming and pristine, not the dull cobblestones that had been their reality.


    If they were going to follow him, they had to believe they were building something bigger than themselves.


    They had to see their bloodshed as an investment in a future that would make them kings in their own right, their names etched into the very foundation of this new world.


    Only then, when they believed they were a part of something monumental, would they fight for him with the fervor he needed.


    It was a sacrifice, greedy and ruthless at its very barebones, but Ricky had no illusions and instead a vision.


    He was prepared to watch the entire world burn if it meant he could claim everything he desired from the wreckage.


    It was undeniable, Ricky was selfish, power-hungry, and ruthless.


    But deep down, he knew that he was merely a product of the world that had shaped him.


    The streets had taught him that only the strong survive, that betrayal, violence, and manipulation were the currencies that ruled the underbelly of New York.


    He wasn''t born this way; he had been molded by his very surroundings that had forced this upo, him, by the city, by the power struggles that took place in dimly lit alleyways, in the smoke-filled rooms where deals were made over blood and whiskey.


    He had learned early on that compassion was a weakness, and those who showed it often found themselves with knives in their backs.


    Friends died because of complacency, his mentors and comrades falling at his own weakness, and loss suffered under his own incompetence.


    But now he had power, real power that could make anything and everything within his view malleable.


    He wasn''t a villain in his own eyes, I don''t think anyone truly sees themselves as a villain; he was just simply Ricky Luciano.


    He was a father, he was a son, he was a comrade, he was the boss and now, he was the only one.


    Ricky pressed his hand lightly against the glass as it shattered with a sharp crack, sending jagged fragments scattering outward as he stepped into the open air, the weight of the world beneath his feet.


    Chastiefol, his ethereal weapon, appeared below him like a shimmering platform, supporting his weight as he hovered over the city.


    The chaotic screams of misery echoed up from the streets, the air thick with the sounds of gunfire and violence.


    In Times Square, the gunshots rang out, Italian youth falling one after another under the rapid fire of Tommy guns as the streets were littered with blood, the pavement stained with the fallen.


    But it was then, high above the city, that Ricky''s gaze fell upon the carnage as the families were in full-blown war, the rival factions battling for survival in the midst of their inevitable collapse.


    His Luciano family had become the sole target of the others, now desperate and panicked, fighting to push them back and reclaim their place in this fractured world.


    A fierce brawl erupted on the streets below, men locked in hand-to-hand combat as they ran out of ammo, resorting to brutal force.


    They charged at each other with abandon, bodies slamming into one another as blood soaked the cracked streets as Ricky''s eyes caught sight of Johnny, leading the way with a shank in his hand.


    Bruises marred Johnny''s body, the evidence of his fierce struggle against his enemies.


    A nicked arm, blood trickling from the wound, only added to the brutality of his appearance, but it was his eyes that truly told the story.


    Johnny had given up everything for the Luciano family after they had taken in his mother, a single woman with three children, after she had emigrated with nothing.


    The family had been his lifeline, offering his own family safety and security in a foreign land, a place where they could grow and thrive.


    It was why he had killed for them, killed his mentor, the one who had once shown him the ropes, had fallen at Johnny''s hands, showing that his loyalty to the Luciano family was stronger than any bond of mentorship.


    And he had sacrificed more than that as he had forfeited countless moments with his loved ones, countless chances at a normal life, all for the Family.


    Now, as the streets ran with blood and bodies piled high, Johnny was ready to lay down his life for them.


    He had given everything to the Luciano family, and in return, they had given him purpose.


    His loyalty to them was unshakable, and he would fight to the bitter end to ensure their victory, no matter the cost.


    He was the embodiment of a true grunt and he was prepared to die for the Family that had given him everything.


    "DON''T LOOK BACK, THIS CITY IS OURS!" Johnny roared, his voice cutting through the chaos of the battle, a rallying cry for all who followed him.


    He lunged at an oncoming mobster only for the enemy mobster to swing first, a brutal punch landing square in Johnny''s mouth, but he didn''t flinch.


    "AHHHHHHHHH!" Johnny roared out a battle cry, pushing through all the pain as his hand shot upward, driving the edge of his shank deep into the mobster''s stomach


    Johnny''s shank sank deep into the mobster''s stomach, the blade tearing through flesh with a sickening squelch.


    But he wasn''t finished as his veins pulsed with the rush of adrenaline, his arm swelling with power as he drove the blade deeper, carving through the man''s insides like a savage animal.


    The mobster''s eyes, his desperate eyes locked onto Johnny''s for a brief moment before the agony became too much, but Johnny wasn''t done yet.


    With a brutal motion, Johnny twisted the shank, a deep gnash appearing across the man''s midsection as the flesh tore apart under the force of Johnny''s fury as the mobsters'' guts sprawled into his own embrace.


    Two more mobsters rushed at Johnny, their faces twisted in fury, fists flying as they berated him with a relentless barrage of attacks.


    He blocked and dodged as best as he could, slashing wildly with his shank, the makeshift weapon slicing through the air.


    Johnny gritted his teeth, adrenaline pumping through his veins, ignoring the blows that landed, ignoring the pain that coursed through his body.


    The shank, worn from the fierce fighting, shattered in his hand, but Johnny didn''t hesitate.


    His eyes burned with fury as he drew back his fist, and with a roar, he threw his body at the next mobster, his swollen right eye barely able to see through the haze of pain.


    However he was slowly being surrounded, the enemies wishing to put this wild animal down as one mobster, wielding a knife, had murder in his eyes as Johnny reflected in his pupils.


    BOOM


    Suddenly, a powerful gust of wind surged from the backline, ripping through the chaos of the battlefield.


    The force of it was so strong that it sent several Italian men flying backward, crashing into the ground or colliding with each other in a pile of limbs and confusion.


    Johnny staggered, struggling to maintain his balance as the blast threw him off his feet, his legs wobbling beneath him but just as he was about to lunge at the intruder, his eyes widened.


    "THE MOB BOSSES ARE ALL DEAD, KILLED BY ME!" Ricky''s voice thundered through the chaos, a roar that cut through the battlefield like a blade, silencing everything in its wake.


    For a moment, the world seemed to pause, the sounds of fighting and desperation halting as every ear in the vicinity focused on him.


    "THIS CITY IS OURS, THESE STREETS ARE OURS, SO FOLLOW ME AND TAKE IT, IT''S YOURS!" Ricky''s words crackled with raw power, his words seeking to ensnare them all on the campaign of his own desires.


    The Luciano family gathered around him, their eyes fixed on the man who had delivered onto them a promise, the man who had brought them to this moment of absolute dominance.


    Ricky stood with an air of calm defiance, Chastiefol in one hand, and the Ebony Blade gleaming in the other.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The battle cry erupted from the Luciano family, a sound so fierce, so full of unrelenting force, that it seemed to shake the very foundation of the city.


    It was a roar of victory, a call to arms that carried with it the weight of everything they had fought for.


    The momentum of the battle shifted in an instant, as if the very air had thickened with power, and the tides turned in their favor.


    The opposing families faltered, their resolve crumbling under the weight of Ricky''s proclamation and the fierce rallying of the Luciano men.


    Their faces drained of color, disbelief and fear spreading like wildfire among their ranks as what they had thought to be a fight for survival was now a desperate scramble.


    Under Ricky, his steps carried forward a new path and direction all while the Luciano family surged forward, following him towards the horizon.


    A slash rang out, the sound slicing through the barrage of men before him as Ricky swung the ebony blade with a speed and precision that seemed impossible.


    Red electric sparks crackled in the air around him, the blade cutting through the mobsters in a single fluid motion.


    Twenty men fell in an instant, their bodies slicing into two and crumbling to the ground like ragdolls.


    "RETREAT, RE-"


    SPLAT


    Without missing a beat, Ricky pivoted and hurled Chastiefol like a javelin, exploding the man''s head like a meat ballon.


    The spear whistled through the air, its trajectory deadly and unyielding as it impaled three more mobsters, lifting them off their feet before they crashed into a nearby wall, bodies mangled and limp.


    Corpses started to pile with every movement Ricky made, the sheer amount seemingly forming a staircase but even then, he sought to climb higher.


    Blood soaked into the fabric of his new Italian suit yet Ricky didn''t even care, his focus was always forward, clearing the way as he carved a path while the Luciano family followed, their steps firm and unwavering behind him.


    The doubts, the thoughts, everything that had once lingered in the back of his mind started to fade, melting away with each decisive action.


    They no longer held him back; they were mere distractions in the face of his singular purpose.


    Behind him, the Luciano family mirrored his resolve as those lingering doubts, those hesitations that once plagued their hearts, slipped away with each stride they took.


    They no longer questioned the path before them; they followed Ricky with unshakeable faith, believing in the power of their leader, the strength of their family.


    The Luciano family had finally united under the very man leading them as it all started to feel more than a fight to these grunts; it was their destiny unfolding before them.


    At this point, the fight had been won, the city had been claimed, and the Luciano family''s victory was absolute.


    Yet Ricky didn''t stop as it wasn''t about defeating the enemy anymore; it was about utterly crushing their will to resist, to make them understand that he was law.


    This was always meant to be a slaughter.


    The fight, the bloodshed, had only been the beginning as the war had sent brutal ripples across the city, and now, those ripples were turning into tidal waves.


    Throughout the night, one by one, the foundations of the families crumbled under the unbearable weight that was Ricky Luciano.


    He sliced through every obstacle with terrifying precision, his family members in hot pursuit, caught in a frenzy as they realized the power they wielded, forming this image within their mind of this invincible, unstoppable man.


    Ricky had not uttered a single falsehood when he spoke to them earlier as he tore through everything in his path, leaving nothing untouched.


    No one, nothing, could stand against the tide that surged through the underworld.


    The night grew so brutal that even the Continental felt the tremors, posting guards outside in case anyone dared to challenge the chaos and when the sun finally rose, the damage was done.


    Huff


    Huff


    Huff


    Johnny gasped for breath, wiping his mouth with a shaky hand before pushing himself to his feet.


    His eyes scanned the devastation around him, the remnants of battle that had unfolded over the last four hours.


    In his adrenaline-fueled haze, he had tried desperately to keep up with Ricky, never once breaking away from the madness.


    What he had seen, what he had witnessed, was only a fraction of the true extent of Ricky''s power, yet it was enough to leave Johnny feeling both awed and horrified.


    "You''re crazy, boss," Johnny muttered, collapsing onto the ground, his body finally giving in to the toll, every inch of him aching as he sat down, unable to fight the exhaustion any longer.


    Ricky didn''t glance at him and with a quiet sigh, he wiped his blade clean, the weapon gleaming in the dim light as he surveyed the carnage around them.


    "Like the bad-shit crazy or the good crazy?" Ricky quipped, flashing a cheeky smile that barely masked the hollowness in his eyes.


    "The kind I ain''t ever gonna mess with, that''s for sure," Johnny added with a lighthearted chuckle, his voice betraying the weariness of his body.


    He was unafraid to speak his mind, unlike the others who, though they were slowly nurturing seeds of respect, still couldn''t shake the fear of what Ricky had become.


    Johnny, however, found a strange comfort in the mounting strength before him, almost like an admiration, maybe, for the sheer power and control Ricky wielded.


    It was sort of a mix of awe and respect that none of the others seemed capable of mustering just yet.


    "You remind me of your mother," Ricky said, bending down with a laugh. He extended a hand, and a faint green glow flickered around Johnny, the son of his father''s maid.


    It was then that everyone noticed Johnny''s injuries, those same wounds that had nearly brought him to the brink of complete exhaustion, begin to heal before their eyes.


    "What the-"


    "Aye, Johnny, go round up some of the boys. Get me all the heavily injured ones, not the fatal ones." Ricky suddenly ordered, plopping down on a nearby seat before Johnny flinched but quickly shot to his feet, nodding in agreement.


    Ricky''s intent was clear, he wanted to display his power to heal, a gesture that would plant seeds of respect and perhaps a bit of gratitude among his men.


    But even he could heal so much, not wanting to look bad in front of his guys by failing to heal a mortally wounded man.


    "That goes for the rest of you!" Ricky shouted, his voice cutting through the air.


    "Our boys are still out there waiting for us, and although we''ve won, let''s not forget that all of us are the Luciano family!" Ricky ordered, watching the smiles of victory faded from the faces of his men, replaced by steely resolve.


    Ricky rushed out of the warehouse, following Johnny, while the severely injured mobsters waited their turn to be treated by him, one by one.


    For the next two hours, the Luciano family didn''t indulge in celebration, there was always work to be done.


    They patched themselves up, tending to their wounds with methodical precision, and when the last injury was tended to, they set to work cleaning up the mess they had made, ensuring there was no trace left of the chaos they had unleashed.


    They were mobsters, not monsters.


    They weren''t going to leave dead bodies lying in the street for every passing citizen to see since after all, they were notorious in the waste management business for a reason.


    Hours passed and the streets were slowly cleared, but remnants remained as the family licked their wounds, and the fallen members of the Luciano family were finally mourned.


    Unlike before, Ricky wasn''t about to shy away from the responsibilities of being a leader, a mob boss.


    He took every initiative, knowing that Lucky would have done the same and after patching up the severely injured gangsters, Ricky got to work.


    With Frank''s help, he began dividing the already existing Luciano territories, distributing them across the swallowed-up districts amongst the high ranking members for a full integration.


    Ricky was learning how to properly place his men into positions that would benefit the family in the underworld.


    It wasn''t perfect, far from it as his decisions were hasty, his judgment slightly off in some areas, but that was to be expected.


    The learning curve was steep, but Ricky wasn''t backing down and with Frank''s guidance, he was able to get the job done.


    Unlike before, Ricky was actually trying to do it himself, and he knew he would slip up, fail, but he kept pushing forward, he kept getting up.


    Like a cockroach, he was relentless, refusing to be crushed by his own mistakes.


    And by the time the sun rose in the sky, the only traces left of the war that had raged through the night were the stray blood splatters in the alleyways, the faint scorch marks, and the shell casings slipping into the sewers as a silent, final remnants of what had happened.


    "We got the ports under our control, right?" Ricky asked, glancing at Frank with a sharp smile as they walked side by side.


    His tone was casual, but there was an edge to it, as if he were expecting a confirmation that the power was firmly in their grasp.


    "Yeah, it took a little longer for the Staten Island ports because of the mess, but after the week, our boys should have a complete handle on those ports," Frank informed Ricky, rubbing his eyes as exhaustion weighed down on him as he''d been up for the last 27 hours.


    "What about the injured, the hospitals-"


    "That kid Johnny already blackmailed the hospitals into giving our guys preferential treatment. He''s pretty bright," Frank said, a rare note of admiration in his voice as he spoke highly of Johnny.


    "Alright, good, good." Ricky nodded, his expression unreadable as they approached a small house as he was listening, but his mind was already shifting, focusing on the next move which looked to be a small house.


    "Aye Slick are you sure you want to do this, you don''t gotta be like your pops?" Frank asked, his eyes shifting to the small house as Ricky raised his gaze to this single house.


    A typical mafia family consists of around 1,500 members, broken down into various ranks.


    At the top, you have the high-ranking individuals, the pinnacle of the family, usually between 10 to 15 members.


    These included the boss, the underboss, the consigliere, and the capos, who each held power and influence within the structure.


    Below them were the core or made members, numbering between 300 and 400.


    These were the officially inducted members of the mafia, the men who had proven their loyalty and earned their place within the family.


    These made men were the backbone of the operation, carrying out the tasks and decisions handed down by those at the top.


    Made members were the core of the organization, with the ability to lead crews, carry out hits, and make decisions on behalf of the family.


    Surrounding these made members were hundreds of associates, non-inducted members who worked closely with the family, running gambling rings, managing rackets, collecting debts, and handling various family enterprises.


    On average, estimates suggest that there could have been anywhere from 500 to 1,000 associates connected to the family at any given time.


    However, Lucky had been planning this operation for years, and the Luciano family was far larger than the typical mafia family.


    With roughly 4,500 members, the family was broken up into different ranks, each serving a specific purpose in the intricate web of power Lucky had carefully woven..


    The other families, when combined, totaled around 9,000 members, but they were easy pickings.


    For months, they had been cooped up, confined to their own territories, allowing Ricky to systematically pick them off one by one.


    When the war finally erupted, Ricky simply moved from territory to territory, each one falling under his control with ease.


    It wasn''t until the last possible moment that the families tried to regroup for a final stand, but by then, how could they hope to resist a force so powerful, an individual they couldn''t even comprehend?


    However, for Ricky, the hardest part of it all was just the beginning.


    With every victory came the weight of a loss, each triumph layered with its own consequences.


    The responsibility of leading the Luciano family, of shaping its future, was starting to press down on him, and the toll was becoming apparent.


    Out of those 4,500, 350 had died in tonight''s overtaking, and Ricky knew that he had to visit every single household and personally deliver the news.


    It might sound overblown or unnecessary, but what made Lucky so respected within the family, and the entire mobster community, wasn''t just how skilled he was as a mobster, or how expertly he navigated the underworld.


    It was the fact that he never distanced himself from his people.


    He didn''t hide behind his title or let his position make him forget the human cost of every move.


    Lucky''s ability to face his family, to bear the weight of their losses, was part of the reason they respected him so deeply.


    Ricky was learning that responsibility wasn''t just about conquering territories or building power, it was about bearing the burden of those who followed you, no matter how heavy it got.


    That was the real secret as to why the Luciano family was so loyal to Lucky.


    There were times when the family had faced internal troubles, but even still, these mobsters respected Lucky like no other.


    The reason was simple: Lucky wasn''t afraid to admit his mistakes and show his vulnerable side to his allies.


    But it wasn''t weakness he was displaying, Lucky wasn''t so foolish as to constantly parade his flaws in front of his underlings but instead, he was demonstrating relatability.


    Lucky made it clear that while he stood higher than his men, he wasn''t some ostracized figure, detached and untouchable.


    He was one of them, someone who understood the weight of the struggle, the pain of failure, and the costs of their dangerous world.


    His vulnerability didn''t diminish his authority; it amplified his humanity, and in turn, the loyalty and respect he earned was unmatched.


    Lucky would talk to mere grunts, runners, and even take criticism from the likes of children, always striving to construct reason from their words.


    The reason why Lucky had so many unique figures around him was because he wasn''t above listening to anyone, no matter their rank or age.


    It was this willingness to engage with every level of his organization, no matter how insignificant they might seem, that made him different.


    He understood that every voice had value, every opinion mattered, and that sometimes the clearest insights came from the most unexpected places.


    Chester was a perfect example of this.


    None of the mob bosses Ricky had wiped out would have listened to a crow, no matter how sharp or insightful he was, because they were too prideful.


    They were trapped in their own egos, incapable of recognizing value outside their inner circles. But Lucky wasn''t like them.


    He didn''t just listen to Chester; he understood the depth of his intelligence and the neutral perspective he offered.


    He saw the value in Chester''s ability to observe without bias, and instead of dismissing him, Lucky probed deeper into his insights, knowing that even a crow could offer truths that others might overlook.


    "I gotta do this Frank, I gotta prove that I ain''t just some f*ck up with a lot of power but someone the family can lean on and follow." Ricky turned to Frank, his eyes serious as being compared to Lucky was an honor in his book.


    One of the responsibilities Lucky took on was delivering the bad news personally.


    Instead of delegating the task to someone else, the head of the family would go to the homes of the men under him, informing their families of the loss.


    It was a burden Lucky bore with respect, acknowledging the personal impact these deaths had on the family.


    Ricky, on the other hand, aspired to be a boss who could rival, and even surpass Lucky one day.


    Although he was on his own path, he wasn''t afraid to follow in Lucky''s footsteps, learning from his methods and understanding the importance of maintaining those personal connections with the people.


    Ricky knew that before he could step into his own shoes, he had to prove himself capable, not just as a leader but as someone who truly understood the weight of responsibility.


    He would learn from the best, then forge his own way when the time came.


    "Well, you''re the boss now." Frank chuckled, holding up his hands since if that was his decision, then it was final.


    Ricky let out a small sigh, walking up the stairs of this small house and appearing before the door.


    Knock


    Knock


    Knock


    Ricky''s knuckles knocked against the weathered wood of a moderately modest one-story home.


    The door creaked open, revealing a stern-faced man who had been eagerly anticipating the arrival of his son.


    But the moment his eyes met Ricky''s, the man''s expression shifted, his hope quickly deflating as he realized it wasn''t his son standing there.


    "Are you Mr. Enchenzo?" Ricky asked, the middle aged man shaking slightly as he bit his lip but nodded.


    "I''m Ricky Luciano and it''s about your son-"


    "He''s dead, ain''t he?" Mr. Enchenzo hand tightly gripped the door, rubbing his eyes so that no tears would come out.


    "He is." Ricky wasn''t going to prolong it, nodding his head slightly as the man looked up at the roof, seemingly admiring the details.


    "May we come in and chat?" Ricky asked Mr. Enchenzo, opening the door to show their hopeful family.


    The family, once filled with hopeful faces, eager for good news, now stood in silence, their expressions crumbling as despair quickly took over.


    The moment they saw Ricky, the weight of their expectations shattered as the hope drained from their eyes, replaced by a collective heaviness.


    Sniff


    "MY BABY!" The shriek of a mother tore through the silence, raw and heart-wrenching.


    Her hands shot up to her face, as if trying to shield herself from the unbearable truth as the weight of her son''s death came crashing down on her, and for a moment, it felt as though the world itself had stopped.


    Her body shook with grief, her voice cracking with the agony of a mother losing her child.


    "Danny, handle your mother." Mr. Enchenzo had a sad expression, asking his now only son to take their mother away.


    "C''mon ma, let''s go to the kitchen-"


    "YOU KILLED MY BABY, YOU MURDERED HIM-"


    "MA!"


    "SERRA!"


    Both Mr. Enchenzo and his son yelled at her, stopping any words of disrespect from uttering out towards this figure.


    They all knew who Ricky was, knowing the wraith he imposed but as they turned towards him, expecting some outburst, he only closed his eyes.


    "I am sorry for your loss, cause I''ve never known what it''s like to lose a child." Ricky first showed his symphony, trying to resonate with them before opening his eyes.


    "But you can insult me, you can curse me out, but I ask you not to dismiss what your son died for." Ricky''s words cut through this poor woman''s heart as if it were paper, holding her cries and finally listening to his words.


    "He died fighting for the family, with his brothers, and he died so that others could live, your son was a hero." Ricky propped their son up on this imaginary pedestal, having never even talked to the poor chump.


    "Like a family, he took care of us, he laid down his life, and I didn''t come here to say anything less, cause he has my respect." Ricky put his hand on his heart, causing Mr. Enchenzo to duck his head a little.


    "I came here to tell you all, family to family, that his sacrifice wasn''t in vain." Ricky words made Mr. Enchenzo had to turn away, the weight of everything just hitting him at the moment as his eyes became teary.


    "It was because of his sacrifice, because of many of our members'' sacrifices, that we claimed New York last night." Ricky revealed, the little brother widening his eyes at such a feat that he thought was a pipe dream.


    "It''s only right we take care of our family, that we take care of you." Ricky gestured towards Frank, watching him walk forward with an envelope of money and setting it down on the table.


    "No amount of money is gonna put a price on your boy, it''s not supposed to." Ricky explained, diswaying the thought before it could even rise to the surface.


    "This is my way of showing gratitude, the only way I know how to express how much it meant to me," Ricky said, trying to carry his words in a more profound way that felt a little flat and unfeeling, lacking the depth that would''ve been noticed if they all weren''t caught in the storm of grief swirling their mind.


    "And if you ever need anything, you come to the Luciano family cause we always look after our own." Ricky ushered in that powerful line that defined the family, Frank over at the side smiling since Lucky always said the same thing.


    Sniff


    Mr. Enchenzo couldn''t cry in front of another man, the words getting to him as he walked towards the kitchen unlike his wife, who looked at Ricky with beady eyes.


    "Are we your first stop?" Mrs. Enchenzo, unlike the others, realized that Ricky might be visiting the other families of the deceased as he smiled.


    "The very first." Ricky forced a smile, a genuine one, instead of his usual sleazy expression as the woman slowly showed a downcast expression.


    "Thank you, truly." Mrs. Enchenzo closed her eyes, feeling slightly ashamed for her outburst as Ricky sort of stood there for a moment.


    "Thank you for giving us some closure."


    It was then that Ricky saw what Lucky had always received: that strange, almost twisted form of appreciation.


    The mother, tears still fresh on her face, looked at him with a strange reverence, as though he were some kind of savior.


    He was the one who had killed her son, the one responsible for the pain she was enduring and yet, there she was, thanking him.


    Thanking him for leading her son to his death, for sending him to the slaughter as he had herded out a response while watching the gratitude form in her eyes despite everything.


    It was unbelievable, and yet, in that moment, Ricky realized something.


    Respect, much like power, was an incredibly malleable force, able to take on forms that twisted its outward appearance, shaping what could be and what couldn''t.


    It wasn''t always clear, or straightforward and it wasn''t just about admiration or fear, it was about influence, the unspoken force that governed actions and decisions.


    Respect has always been preached as something obtained through abilities, qualities, or achievements.


    You give respect and you get respect.


    But Ricky was beginning to understand that these concepts were more flexible than he''d ever imagined, far from rigid definitions.


    He showed his quality by offering her his thoughts, the rawness of his honesty, before demonstrating the power of what his actions had brought with her son''s death, the aftermath, and the consequences.


    In that moment, he wasn''t just a mobster or a leader; he was a force that shaped reality through what he could take from the world and what he could give in return.


    Respect, he realized, wasn''t a simple transaction, it was a reflection of the choices that were perceived, and the undeniable weight it brought upon those affected.


    "Slick." Frank whispered, nudging him as Ricky snapped out of his thoughts before showing a smile.


    "Mrs. Enchenzo, if your family ever needs someone to lean on, know that the Luciano family will bear the weight." Ricky smiled, receiving a sincere one in return as she dabbed the ends of her eyes.


    "Thank you, thank you so much."


    Twenty four hours later,


    For the last twenty four soul crushing hours, Ricky experienced a smidge of what Lucky had been going through for his entire duration as a mob boss while telling the parents, the siblings, and the children of those who died on his watch that their significant other would never be coming back.


    It was around 9 a.m., and Ricky had been awake for way too long and yet there he was, sitting on the mansion steps with a beer in his hand.


    "It''s tough, ain''t it?" Lucky strolled over to the steps and plopped down next to Ricky. Ricky took a slow sip of his beer before rubbing the bags under his eyes.


    "And let me guess, it doesn''t get any easier?" Ricky asked, watching Lucky laugh softly and pat his shoulder.


    "Nope, it doesn''t. In fact, shit only gets tougher as time passes." Lucky swiped the beer from Ricky''s hand, downing the last of it before tossing it aside.


    "But being a leader, a boss, it ain''t all sunshine and rainbows." Lucky narrated the last twenty four hours of Ricky''s life with those small amounts of words.


    "It about walking into the fcking jungle and hacking a pathway through so others can follow." Lucky revealed, shaking his head at all the sht he''d had to step through when he was just starting out.


    "That''s what it means to be a leader, and it never stops until the last breath escapes your chapped lips." Lucky sighed, instinctively licking his lips after his own words.


    "Now, come on, we''ve got a meeting." Lucky gestured toward Ricky, who raised an eyebrow.


    "With who?" Ricky asked, standing up with Lucky who flashed him a smile as if it had all been building up to this moment.


    "With the high table."


    Author''s Note: I''m about to reach 15k collections and I just wanna say, like I always do whenever I reach these milestones, thank you. Seriously, even reading my story means alot and I''m glad you all enjoy what I write. This is my hobby and you guys don''t understand what it means to me when you take the time out of your day to enjoy it, so thank you, truly.

 Chapter 144 - 139: The High Table

    Chapter 144 - 139: The High Table


    Meanwhile at the newly acquired Luciano Family Docks,


    A ship slowly pulled into port as a woman stood on the balcony, her gaze locked onto the view.


    Her arrival wasn''t marked by a grand show; those who glimpsed her on the horizon might spare her a passing glance, but nothing more.


    However, to beings who defied the natural order, those attuned to the magical resonance of the world around them, the air thickened, the density of the area abruptly increasing. Even then, only one person capable of sensing such a dramatic shift remained unaware of the force sailing toward her.


    The ship docked and life seemingly continued as usual, but as the luxurious boat anchored, only one woman disembarked. The moment her foot touched the dock, her presence rippled outward.


    Agatha, currently tending to Johnny, had her smile freeze as every inch of her skin formed goosebumps as she immediately felt the disturbance. Her expression filled with horror, sensing the ominous force that had arrived and only knowing one person capable of this.


    Snap


    "Lock down the entire coven, DO IT NOW!" Agatha roared, her magic amplifying the command throughout the coven since there was only one person capable of instilling fear in a witch as powerful as her.


    "Selene is here!"


    Meanwhile at Midtown 20 W 44th Street,


    "Thanks for the heads up right before we went into the meeting," Ricky said sarcastically, watching Lucky snicker as the towering luxury apartment came into view.


    "Listen, these meetings don''t happen when we want them; it''s the other way around. Right now, it''s most convenient for the High Table," Lucky explained, only for Ricky to suddenly glance out the window from the corner of his eye.


    "What''s with that look-"


    "This place gives me the f*cking creeps," Ricky muttered, though his eyes remained as sharp as the blade at his waist.


    Much like Agatha, who possessed the skill of Magic Awareness, Ricky also had the ability, though he wasn''t as attuned to magic as Agatha, who had honed it for centuries. However, his newly acquired skill, Temporal Insight, was screaming at him with an intensity he hadn''t felt since his last battle with Dracula.


    It made him on edge, positioning his body in the line in which it was blaring and somewhat shielding Lucky if a fight were to occur.


    Lucky stayed silent, watching as Ricky gazed out the window until they arrived at the luxury hotel.


    Even when they got out of the car, Ricky didn''t loosen up until his skill vanished the second he crossed into the boundaries of the continental which caught him off guard.


    Lucky continued forward while Ricky stared intently at the door, stepping just outside the boundary and feeling a faint twinge before quickly pulling his foot back, where the sensation vanished. His skill essentially indicated that no threat would reach him as long as he remained within the confines of the hotel and strangely enough, he understood this perfectly.


    ''Damn, this skill is specific.'' Ricky thought, feeling a little weirded out but going with the flow, turning around to follow Lucky.


    He was a few steps behind due to a brief pause, but Ricky, striding along with his usual sleazy smile, suddenly scoffed.


    The reason entirely had to do with the stares which were completely evident; Ricky could literally see through his void sight the murderous intent lurking around him at every subtle twitch the surroundings guests gave off.


    Usually Ricky wouldn''t care in the least, only when they started to outwardly express this murderous intent did he slowly come to a stop at the very heart of the lobby.


    Red threads surrounded his eyes, revealing the clear intentions emanating from the people around him, intentions he had never seen before in the trial as these carried real intent to kill as he slowly raised a bloody smile.


    Ricky usually followed his own whims and didn''t care for hostility directed at him, finding it honestly hilarious when people insulted him with fear laced in their tone. But when the intentions to kill spiraled all around him, his shamelessness sharpened, as if he couldn''t shy away from confrontation.


    Lucky didn''t notice at first, only realizing Ricky wasn''t behind him as he turned around only to see that look he knew too well. "Slick don''t you f*cking dare-"


    Whoosh


    A heavy weight pressed down on the heads of all the guests, his sovereign will bearing upon their refined psyches, each one hardened by the trials and tribulations of their own unspoken horrors.


    Yet, despite all the atrocities they had seen and committed, their heads slowly started to bend under his green aura.


    "What kind of dipsh*ts look at me like that but don''t have the balls to do anything about it, come on, I insist-" Ricky immediately mouthed off, forgetting the rules for a moment as he was too caught up in retaliating.


    "Excuse me, sir?" The receptionist called out to Ricky, noticing that only those who had shown any intent at all had their heads lowered forcefully as he turned to her.


    "Violence of any kind is prohibited within continental grounds. I''d like to ask you to please refrain from using your powers on the premises," the receptionist added politely and Ricky immediately halted his use, rubbing the back of his neck.


    "Oh, my bad, I kinda forgot," Ricky said, his tone softening as he noticed the receptionist''s lack of hostility and the kind smile on his face. Knowing employees like her always had to put up with other people''s sh*t, and seeing her genuine response, Ricky disarmed himself willingly.


    "Not a problem, sir. We at the Continental understand your situation and are not bothered by your unfamiliarity with its rules. I thank you for your understanding," the receptionist said, offering a pleased smile as she found Ricky much easier to talk to than most of the people who walked through the doors.


    "Now, how may I help you, sirs?" the receptionist asked with a polite smile as Ricky walked up next to Lucky at the front desk.


    "I have an appointment under the Luciano family name," Lucky said calmly, pointing to the book as the receptionist smiled, opening the meeting book and patiently scanning through it.


    "Luciano, Luciano-ah, here it is," the receptionist said with a calm tone, using her finger to scroll down until she found their name and finally looked up at them with a smile.


    "They are preparing the review board. Would you be so kind as to wait in the lobby? And do not worry, everything will be complimentary during your stay," the receptionist gestured to the side as Lucky flicked his head, and Ricky followed, his eyes scanning the surroundings.


    "Pretty swanky place-ow," Ricky whistled, commenting on everything around him, only to let Lucky smack him in the back of the head since he had literally warned him about the continental grounds beforehand.


    "You are here to be certified under the High Table and have your organization recognized as New York''s territory, correct?" The receptionist asked as Lucky nodded at the accurate summary, smiling in response.


    "They are preparing the review board. Would you be so kind as to wait in the lobby? And do not worry, everything will be complimentary during your stay," the receptionist gestured to the side as Lucky flicked his head, and Ricky followed, his eyes scanning the surroundings.


    "Pretty swanky place-ow," Ricky whistled, commenting on everything around him, only to let Lucky smack him in the back of the head since he had literally warned him about the continental grounds beforehand.


    "Really Slick, in the building-"


    "I forgot-"


    "Oh, save it for the chumps. We both know you would''ve kept going until you got a warning, regardless," Lucky scoffed, annoyed at his shamelessness as he plopped down on a seat with Ricky shrugging as a server approached them shortly after.


    "Hello, I''m Holster, and I''ll be your waiter for the duration of your stay. Would you care for anything to start?" Holster asked with a practiced smile, spitting out the same line that was seemingly ingrained into his brain as Ricky glanced at the menu briefly.


    "Yeah, can I get a bacon, egg, and cheese with a-hmm, I wanna say, sangria?" Ricky mused, really taking the time to think out what alcoholic drink he wanted with his meal as the waiter smiled at the request.


    "And for you Mr. Luciano?" Holster turned to Lucky, holding up his pen and paper to the seasoned man.


    "Water is fine." Lucky smiled, holding up his hand to Holster who went to fill their order only for Ricky to frown.


    "Wait, stop." Ricky suddenly held up his hand, halting Holster movements as he showed a look of concern.


    "Did I miss something-"


    "It''s not that, get him a ham and cheese sandwich." Ricky immediately dissuaded Holster words, promptly ordering a meal for Lucky who scrunched his brows.


    "What the hell are you doing, I ain''t hungry-"


    "Bull. Fcking. Sht." Ricky emphasized each word, scoffing with a laugh trickling in between as he wagged his finger side to side.


    "I know what you''re doing and it''s not happening." Ricky crossed his arms, showing a smug expression as Lucky spread out his hands.


    "Am I some sort of communist for ordering a glass of water-"


    "No, no, don''t you try to play it off and don''t give this guy that look of innocence." Ricky laughed, literally stopping Lucky from doing what he always did when he was pissed off by him.


    "Holster I''m fine, ignore this wack-"


    "Holster, you bring that man a f*cking Ham and cheese sandwich-"


    "Slick, I''m good, stop." Lucky raised his voice, stopping Ricky who was wiping his mouth before raising a hand.


    "I am confused-"


    "Holster, water is fine," Lucky said with a smile, beckoning the poor waiter away as Holster slowly backed up, making sure he wasn''t going to be called back before he turned to leave.


    Ricky frowned, slumping in his chair, almost as if he was pouting at the stunt Lucky was about to pull.


    "Listen up-"


    "I know, don''t f*ck it up, I got it," Ricky said, holding up his hand, but Lucky met him with a serious expression, his gaze unwavering.


    "That''s not it, Slick. Listen, I''m officially gonna step down as head of the family," Lucky suddenly said, his words almost forcing Ricky to flinch, the unexpected words catching him off guard.


    "Wait, what?"


    "Listen, Lucky Legacy Bank is booming, and with everything going on, I barely have time for the family," Lucky explained, gesturing towards Ricky as the weight of balancing both the bank and the family was clear, revealing just how stressful the responsibility had become.


    "And when you came back, y''know, with everything you''ve gone through and ended up doing, I sort of used your time at the trial to see if you were ready." Lucky explained, his words carrying a sincereness that was usually foreign to him.


    "I mean, you''re not, but beggars can''t be choosers. To really be a leader, you have to grow into the role, it''s not something you''re just born with." Lucky couldn''t help but joke, but Ricky, taken aback, sat in silence for a while, pondering the weight of it all.


    It had always been clear what Lucky wanted for Ricky, he never hid his intentions for him to eventually take over the family. But hearing it and having Lucky acknowledge that Ricky was ready were two entirely different matters. Lucky would never jeopardize the family, and he would never step down unless he truly believed Ricky was prepared. Even when he tried to brush it off with humor, it was a deeply significant moment, one that Ricky found hard to fully process, the weight of it lingering longer than he expected.


    "I know it''s gonna be rocky for a while, but I want you to take the reins of the family, and I want you to do it after getting the High Table''s approval, by yourself," Lucky said, gesturing towards Ricky, who suddenly realized something.


    "Don''t tell me-"


    "Yeah, kid, you''re on your own," Lucky smiled, a hint of cheekiness laced with the warmth of pride as he looked at Ricky and in that moment, he was genuinely proud of him.


    There''s always that moment, the one only truly defined by a father and son relationship, where the father offers his recognition that his son has truly grown up. It''s rarely straightforward and usually subtle, like sharing a beer or handing over the keys to an old car but for Lucky, it was handing the family over to Ricky.


    Ricky had grown used to people in his past life giving up on him, and in a twisted way, he always took pride in it, embracing the role of the irredeemable scumbag.


    Ricky''s father in his past life was an asshole, the kind who wanted him to commit suicide just to get back at his cheating mother. It was why that void of a strong father figure had always lingered in him, a gnawing emptiness that made him unable to really grow out of that childish way.


    But Lucky, he was his father. He was the only one who never gave up on him, the only one who stood by him, even though they weren''t blood. When they first met, Ricky was a complete mess, drunk at the ripe old age of ten, yet for some strange reason, Lucky saw something in him that no one else ever had.


    People often wondered why Ricky respected Lucky so much, but the answer was simple. Lucky was the one who taught him how to be a real man, how to take responsibility, like any father should.


    "Mr. Luciano, the review will start now." The receptionist said, walking over to Lucky as he gestured for Ricky to follow, still somewhat reeling from the weight of the conversation.


    "I know it''s sudden, but Slick here is the new head of the family so I think it''s only right he shoulders this, right?" Lucky asked, clearly giving him an indirect chance to back down if he wasn''t ready but Ricky simply smiled.


    There was no need to hesitate, no need to ponder if he was truly ready, it didn''t matter, Ricky wanted it. He wanted the power, the family, and the heights he couldn''t have even imagined before.


    Ricky already had power, but now, he craved the notoriety that came with it as he was determined to be the man Lucky had raised him to be, the man who could carry the weight of it all.


    "That''s right, pops, I''m ready," Ricky smirked, standing up as the receptionist watched quietly, then calmly guided him to the side.


    Lucky sat still, watching Ricky walk ahead, knowing he had done all he could as he had guided him, protected him, and helped shape him into the man he was now. But he couldn''t hold his hand forever, couldn''t always clean up his messes and now, it was Ricky''s time to stand on his own.


    It was then that his breakfast arrived but instead of walking after Ricky, Lucky gestured for Holster to come over as he was handed the sangria and a bacon, egg, and cheese. "Kid was right, Sangria was the move."


    Click


    Click


    The sound of dress shoes clicking echoed through the vast hallway as Ricky walked, his eyes scanning the serene surroundings before shifting to the receptionist, who met his gaze with a neutral expression.


    "So, how does it work? Do I just kinda sit in a chair and get interviewed or?" Ricky left the latter half of his question open, asking the receptionist who gave him a smile.


    "A review is standard for any organization seeking recognition in the eyes of the High Table," the receptionist explained politely, her footsteps echoing as she walked a few paces ahead of him.


    "Usually, a harbinger, an emissary of the High Table, is sent out," the receptionist informed him, her voice steady. "But the Autem Imperator herself has come to review your petition personally. It is a great honor, which is why you were treated with such sincerity." The receptionist explained, arriving at the double doors, gesturing for Ricky to enter.


    "I cannot enter through these doors; this is as far as I go." The receptionist notified Ricky as he glanced at the doors before shrugging, then pushed them open with a steady motion, stepping inside.


    "So it was you," Ricky unabashedly proclaimed, his voice steady as he felt the same heavy presence from earlier as he gazed up at the figure shrouded in darkness.


    There was no immediate response, only the subtle rhythmic tapping of a long black fingernail against the surface, the sound reverberating in the silence before slowly, the figure leaned in and out of the shadows that clung to them.


    "It was," the figure hummed, her voice smooth yet chilling while Ricky''s pants immediately stiffened as he locked eyes with her, watching as her lips, coated in black lipstick, curled into a slow, calculated smile.


    Her beauty was a weapon sharper than any blade, her features carved with an elegance that bordered on the predatory. Her eyes, deep and dark as the void, seemed to drink in the light around them, only to ignite with a faint red glow when her emotions flared. Those pupils of hers carried the weight of centuries, a gaze that could pierce through the strongest of resolves and unravel secrets with unnerving ease.


    Her brows arched sharply, a natural frame to her penetrating stare, lending her an air of imperious authority. Beneath them, her nose was straight and refined, a perfect balance of symmetry and subtle dominance. High cheekbones sculpted her face into something both regal and haunting, casting faint shadows that only enhanced her ethereal beauty.


    Her lips, full and inviting, curved with the faintest hint of amusement or cruelty. When she smiled, it was a masterpiece of control, a gesture that could just as easily ensnare as destroy. Her jawline was a sculptor''s dream, angular and defined, completing a face that was as much a work of art as it was a harbinger of doom. This was Selene Gallio''s visage and she was timeless, a haunting reminder of the power and danger lurking beneath such extravagant beauty.


    "Did I scare you?" Selene playfully pondered aloud, puffing her lips as her eyes remained fixed on him, studying his every reaction with a quiet intensity.


    "If anything, you''ve excited me," Ricky said, walking forward with confidence, shamelessly engaging with such a dangerous woman.


    "Ricky Luciano," Ricky introduced himself, his smile sleazy and his eyes gleaming with the same audacity, betraying no hint of hesitation.


    "Selene Gallio," Selene replied, her voice smooth and measured, observing Ricky''s every move.


    As he reached for her hand, she lowered it gracefully, allowing him to touch it and Ricky, ever the bold one, pressed his lips to the top of her palm.


    DING


    [Mission Received: Selene Gallio]


    Difficulty: SS


    Character Sheet: SS+


    Description: Selene is a woman draped in mystery, a figure who slips through the annals of history like a shadow, present, yet always just out of reach, too elusive to be captured in the grand narrative of time. Her presence stirs intrigue, a quiet force that beckons without revealing all of herself. She is someone who desires power, yet only the kind that doesn''t consume or overwhelm her. Her strength is controlled, measured, never tipping over into chaos, as if she is always aware of the delicate balance she must maintain.


    Objective: Do it raw with no regrets


    Reward: 1,000,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once: 10 Legendary Gacha, 30 Epic Gacha, and 100 regular gacha or Selene''s Powers


    Rewards: Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    In your first sexual exchange, stimulate an organism from her first(Incomplete):


    Reward: Mythic Coupon


    Somehow get Selene to admit her love for you without admitting it first(Incomplete):


    Reward: Mythic Level Up


    F*ck her out of the realm of control she always abides by(Incomplete):


    Reward: 15 Selectable Stat Points


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ''Is this real? Of course yes, what the f*ck?" Ricky didn''t hesitate, but it wasn''t until he examined the strange missions and their peculiar specifics that the rewards started to make sense.


    "Alright, I gotta know, how is it that someone so breathtaking is standing before me? Like, how did I get so lucky to be in this moment, with you, right now?" Ricky genuinely asked, a small smile forming on Selene''s lips as she began tracing her fingers along the desk.


    "I think we both know the how and why, but the question really is, whether or not the interest is real or a facade." Selene chuckled, tilting her head and merely observing Ricky.


    "Oh, baby, there ain''t nothing more real than this connection right here, right now." Ricky spread his arms wide, then quickly wiped his mouth with the back of his hand.


    "But shouldn''t we save that for later? I don''t want you to think my sincerity is just a way to gain your favor, but a true admiration for the beautiful woman standing before me." Ricky suddenly pulled back, sensing no reaction to his bluntness as his words shifted, almost instinctively, as if adjusting to a rhythm he was all too familiar with.


    "So whatever happens, let''s put a pin in this and pick it up after dinner, no matter what goes down here. What do you think?" Ricky asked, raising and dropping his eyebrows playfully but Selene, however, simply stared at him, her expression unchanged, as if weighing his words carefully.


    "I think it''s a proposal, worthy of deeper consideration." Selene gave a response that hinted at its possibility but left enough room for rejection later.


    "Then, let''s get to the matter at hand, shall we?" Selene slowly raised the folder containing the High Table''s dossier on Ricky, her eyes narrowing slightly as she prepared to delve into the details.


    "Ricky Luciano, born as Ricky Freeman, was given up for adoption by a nun after he was conceived with the result of his mother dying during childbirth," Selene read aloud, her voice steady and deliberate and yet, the words didn''t seem to faze Ricky in the slightest.


    "Wait, is my birth mother the nun, or the person who gave me up for adoption, I''m confused?" Ricky asked, hearing the wording of the question but when he thought about it, he didn''t really know if his mother was a nun or the person who gave him to the orphanage was the nun.


    "From then on, he resided in the Roosevelt orphanage until the age of nine, when he saved Lucky Luciano from near-fatal injuries," Selene continued, her tone deliberate, allowing the weight of the words to hang in the air as Ricky was still confused until the mention of Lucky''s rescue, which caught his attention, pulling him back into focus.


    "It was then that he was dragged into a scuffle with the Five Points gang, which led to the awakening of his mutant powers. After that, he was adopted by Lucky Luciano and took his name, becoming Ricky Luciano," Selene read, her voice smooth and controlled as Ricky''s lips curled into a faint smirk as the story of his life, or at least part of it, unfolded in front of him.


    "Years passed, and so did Ricky Luciano''s childish and unnerved potential, leading him to incite what was later referred to as ''the Irish Massacre of 1932''," Selene continued, her tone steady as she revealed another dark part of Ricky''s life.


    "Oh, I remember that-"


    "He then took over the operations of Harlem, parts of Manhattan, and received the clubs to operate." Selene skipped over Ricky''s interjection, flipping the page of the extensive report and continuing.


    "However, it was Jake Lankey who did all the work, which would later lead to his drug problem in the near future," Selene continued, her voice steady, but Ricky''s smile slowly faded as the report was becoming too detailed, and it hit closer to home than he''d expected.


    "Then, while searching for the sun pendant, Xarus enlisted the Jewish mob, killing two of Ricky Luciano''s friends, Eddy and Rocco." Selene seemingly pressed further, her tone the same as someone reading off a presentation they didn''t even do.


    "It was there that Ricky was exposed to the supernatural world, eventually gaining his revenge, only to have his powers exposed later as a mutant by an attorney named Dewey." Selene paused, letting the words sink in before continuing. "This led to his subsequent banishment, where he would go on to become the Black Knight and serve until he met Dracula." Selene almost chuckled, holding it in as she read the next passage.


    "Under Abraham Van Helsing''s tutelage, Ricky grew, but not enough, as Dracula toyed with him like he had with the Van Helsing family for centuries." Selene''s voice carried an almost mocking edge as she read, seemingly talking down to him.


    "It was then, after three years, that Ricky Luciano finally succeeded in killing Dracula. He returned to New York, only to ignite a civil fight with the government¡ªand he won." Selene paused, letting the gravity of Ricky''s rise settle in the air before continuing once more, her voice smooth but cutting.


    "Now, after wiping out the other heads of the mob families, the Luciano family stands as a force to be reckoned with. This is the promise Lucky ensured eight years ago after killing his own boss." Selene finished, finally remembering who Lucky was since she actually remembered that meeting.


    "Impressive life story, if I do say so myself," Selene remarked, setting the paper down with a deliberate motion. "Don''t worry, I still have a couple of surprises left," Ricky chuckled, his gaze hinting downwards at his pants but Selene ignored it.


    "I will not lie, your actions whether it be through your Black Knight persona up until your announcement as Ricky Luciano has proned my interest and attention." Selene revealed, having outwardly expressed her interest in him.


    "But I must say, I''ve been keeping my eye on you a little more closely ever since you crossed paths with that little pest, Eliphas," Selene said, her voice carrying a subtle undercurrent of something darker as her eyes flashed for just a moment, revealing an emotion that was fleeting and impossible to fully decipher.


    "Ha~" Ricky chuckled, wiping his mouth as his eyes glimmered with a faint green aura, a hateful gleam creeping into his expression.


    "Speaking of little rats, since you brought him up," Ricky leaned in slightly, his voice low and dark.


    "Happen to know where the guy is? Cause I got a debt I need to repay to him." Ricky wondered out loud, not even hiding that he was going to twist that vampire''s head clean off.


    Selene, unfazed, rested her hand gently on his head, a silent motion that conveyed both authority and affection as she kept her gaze steady on him, her lips curling into a faint, almost imperceptible smile.


    "I do."


    "Care to share."


    "Where would be the fun in that?"


    The exchange was brief, but it conveyed everything and despite the dismissive tone Selene used when speaking of Eliphas, there was an undeniable amusement in her eyes. She didn''t seem to view him as much more than a nuisance, but there was something in the way she lingered on the thought that suggested she took a certain pleasure in watching Eliphas squirm. "Alright, well, if you see him can you pass a message for me?" Ricky asked, forcing a smile at the man who had indirectly led to Abraham and Henry''s deaths.


    "Tell him ''sh*t''s about to get real and he still has a debt/interest to pay'' and make sure to punch him in the face when you or whoever delivers it." Ricky said, highlighting very specific outlines for the message to be delivered.


    "Alright," Selene chuckled, her eyes glinting with amusement as she leaned back, her posture relaxed but her attention never wavering from Ricky.


    "Now Ricky, do you know why no organization has been certified within New York?" Selene asked, her tone shifting slightly as she studied him while Ricky shrugged casually, his lips curling into a smirk.


    "Not even a little bit."


    "You see, ever since the tea was thrown into that harbor all those years ago, the government has been mercilessly crushing any attempts at an organization gaining any threshold in this city," Selene explained, recounting the formation of the Americas and their futiles attempt to stop this city from being zoned by the High table.


    "It''s actually quite fascinating on that topic, as this group in particular, notably called the Freemasons, have been hell-bent on making sure that none of these organizations flourish." Selen purposely revealed, calmly tracing her fingernail along the groves of the table beneath her.


    "That is, however, until the mob showed up, and they just suddenly disappeared." Selene traced her hand along the desk, her gaze lingering on the smooth surface.


    "Isn''t that peculiar?" Selene wondered, turning her gaze to Ricky as if this topic had nothing to do with him.


    "Yeah, I guess it''s pretty strange." Ricky, who had this sort of mambo jumbo imparted onto his life that always revealed a deep secret about something he always thought he knew, wasn''t bothered by these reveals but was just really bored of them by now.


    "Hm, indeed it is." Selen voiced out, looking at Ricky with piercing eyes before continuing.


    "And now, not only has an organization solidified itself here, but an organization led by a mutant." Selene''s voice was cool, as if weighing the implications of those words.


    "I won''t lie, I''m only here because of that fact," Selene continued, her voice soft but intense. "It fascinates me how far you''ve come, especially after winning that civil case. Quite the feat, really." Selene leaned in slightly, her smile both intrigued and amused.


    "But I''ve also heard that you''ve retained the support of Elias," Selene remarked, revealing her knowledge but Ricky, however, wasn''t surprised even if she knew about the freckle on his left ass cheek too.


    "Is that a deal breaker?" Ricky asked, wondering if he was going to get cock blocked by a pair of floating red eyes.


    "It depends on your answer to my question." Selene purposely halted her words, leaving it up in that air as if she enjoyed the prospect of leading someone on.


    "Ricky Luciano, are you attending the Hellfire Ball at the end of the year?" Selene''s smile slowly faded, her eyes narrowing slightly as if the answer would determine something crucial. A dark energy started to pulse around her as her eyes slowly turned a dark shade of black, all the while Ricky sort of stood there a little confused since there was no danger in the least and this sort of display felt meaningless after he knew that.


    "Yes?"


    "Fantastic." Selene suddenly smiled, the dark energy around her dissipating as she grabbed a stamp. "Under the position of Autem Imperator, I, Selene Gallio, approve of Ricky Luciano''s application for the Luciano Family to be certified under the High Table as a functioning criminal organization," Selene announced, officially recognizing Ricky under the condition that he attend the Hellfire Ball.


    thump


    Selene slammed the stamp onto the folder, sealing the Luciano family''s entrance into the High Table''s ranks and solidifying their position as the sole inheritor of New York, zoning it out to their control.


    "Congratulations," Selene said, her voice smooth as she leaned back in her chair. "And I can assume that you''ve taken the mantle as head of your family with your bank''s recent success, which is why Lucky isn''t here, correct?" Selene asked, already guessing the shift in power and Ricky nodded, confirming her assumption.


    "Yeah, my pops wants to focus on the bank while I take the reins of the family," Ricky revealed, watching Selene carefully as she sat there for a moment, her eyes narrowing slightly as she took in his words.


    "Your pops sure is a perceptive fellow," Selene mused aloud, her fingers tapping lightly against the desk as she leaned back, her gaze steady on Ricky. She pondered the implications of his rise, whether it was a strategic move fueled by his own abilities or simply a coincidence, especially with her being a mutant as well. "Don''t I know it," Ricky chuckled, a smirk spreading across his face as he imagined Lucky''s smug reaction to such a comment. "The procedures for how to operate and a guidebook will be sent to your operations threshold, and Ricky." Selene paused, her smile widening as she turned to face him.


    "May I be the first to welcome you under the High Table," Selene said, her voice smooth and filled with an unspoken challenge, before she swayed her gorgeous hips as she turned away.


    "I''ll see you at the Hellfire Ball." Selene''s words implied only one thing as Ricky immediately tried to salvage the moment.


    "What about our dinner-"


    "Raincheck," Selene remarked, casting a final glance over her shoulder as she walked away, leaving Ricky high and dry.


    "Of course it wouldn''t be that easy."


    10 minutes later,


    "You son of a b*tch, really?" Ricky muttered as he walked over, his eyes narrowing on Lucky, who was already leisurely rubbing his stomach, the very same one that held almost all of his bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich.


    "The sangria, by the way, was just the perfect touch," Lucky commented, fueling the fire as Ricky laughed, shaking his head in disbelief.


    Sigh


    "Whatever let me have a bite-" Ricky reached over to the plate only for Lucky to pull it away.


    "Hell no, get your own." Lucky shamelessly said, scoffing at his nerve as Ricky had his mouth a little agape before scrunching his brows.


    "That is my own!"


    Meanwhile at the Penthouse Room,


    Selene was sipping on a very dark wine, her eyes fixed on a mirror that didn''t reflect her own captivating figure but instead captured the exchange between Lucky and Ricky. Her gaze remained steady, intrigued by their dynamic, as she savored each sip as the glass in her hand caught the light, a stark contrast to the shadowed room around her.


    "Mistress, the preparations for your departure have-"


    "Constance, I''ve decided to prolong my stay." Selene swirled the wine, her eyes never leaving Ricky as he fumbled with his hand, continuously swatted away by Lucky''s playful yet firm gestures. The slight tension in the air only seemed to draw her deeper into the scene, her lips curling into a faint, knowing smile as she observed the interaction unfold.


    "But miss¡ª" Constance tried to speak, but his words were caught in his throat, the air feeling as though it had been sucked from the room as a wave of pressure slammed into his chest, forcing him to his knees, gasping for breath.


    Scratching at his throat, Constance''s face began to turn purple, his breaths ragged and shallow.


    Selene''s smile curved ever so slightly, the amusement in her eyes barely noticeable, as Ricky''s attention was momentarily distracted by a waitress walking by.


    "Do you know what I love about a stray dog?" Selene asked casually, her voice smooth as she ignored Constance''s struggle to breathe, his gasps growing weaker.


    "It''s that they''re so much fun to tame, to control." Selene''s voice was dripping with satisfaction as she took another sip of her wine, savoring it as if it were the final taste of a victory. She cleared the last drop, holding out her glass with a gesture that was both commanding and graceful.


    "Inform the club that I will have a plus one for the ball," Selene instructed coolly, her eyes never leaving the mirror as she released her grip on Constance. GASP


    Constance gasped for air, his chest heaving as he stumbled back to his feet as he steadied himself, then walked to the bar, hands trembling slightly as he poured her another glass, though the near-death experience was still fresh in his mind. "Yes, Mistress."


    20 minutes later,


    "Are you sure this is where you want to have your office?" Lucky asked, tilting his head slightly as Ricky crossed his arms, his gaze fixed on the peculiar space in front of him.


    "It''s perfect, the nostalgia, the smell, and the pizza-oh god, the pizza!" Garfield spoke before Ricky could even muster a word, his chubby cheeks due from Ezmerilda overfeeding, jiggling as he waddled excitedly toward Italiano''s.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    "P-Pizza~" Garfield gasped, taking a moment to catch his breath before sitting down after only ten steps as Chester, looking exasperated, shook his head.


    "No self-control whatsoever," Chester sighed lightly, shaking his head as he watched Garfield struggle toward the establishment.


    "At least he''s resilient," Alexander pointed out with a faint smile, watching Garfield crawl toward Italiano''s, determined despite the odds.


    "Woah!" Asterion yelled out, pointing at the towering highrise in the distance, his eyes wide with awe as he took in the sight of it for the first time.


    Asterion''s body was practically weighed down by the collection of trinkets and souvenirs, becoming a walking testament to the tourist experience. Covered in everything from keychains to t-shirts, he looked like someone who had taken New York''s commercial offerings to heart. Being in the city, with Ricky''s privileges, felt like a dream come true, like a child let loose in a candy store, unable to decide where to start.


    The city was Asterion''s playground as he had the freedom to go anywhere, and go everywhere he did. He visited the Statue of Liberty, his eyes wide with awe at the monumental symbol of freedom, then laughed with genuine joy from the top of the Empire State Building, marveling at the vastness of the city below.


    For Asterion, it was the first time in a long while that he felt truly alive. Seeing what humanity had built, the heights of creativity and ambition that New York represented, filled him with a sense of purpose he hadn''t felt before. He had struggled for centuries to find his passion, unsure of his place or whether his purpose was right. But as he saw each new sight, each landmark, and each part of the city come to life, Asterion found himself more and more excited to keep exploring, to see what would come next. Each new experience sparked a thrill in him, something fresh and different, something worth looking forward to.


    "Well, alright," Lucky shrugged, deciding not to argue with Ricky, especially since he had practically lived out of Italiano''s for the longest time.


    Walking into the establishment, Ricky scooped up the huffing Garfield and immediately inhaled the mouthwatering scent of a freshly baked pizza pie.


    "SLICK!" Antonio, in his older form, cheered out as he walked from around the counter and pulled Ricky into a warm hug.


    "Antonio, it''s been too long!" Ricky laughed, hugging the old, chubby man who gleefully chuckled in return.


    "What do you need, anything, it''s on me!" Antonio patted Ricky''s shoulder, smiling ear to ear at the young man before stepping back, his arms open as if offering the whole place to him.


    "Antonio, I''m gonna be honest with you cause you''re someone I''d never lie to." Ricky put his hand on his heart, showing a sincere expression as Antonio nodded his head.


    "If I don''t get one of your pizzas, I think I might die," Ricky laughed, his tone light and playful as Antonio quickly hurried to the kitchen, a knowing grin spreading across his face.


    "Then I''ll cook up New York''s best just for you!"


    Walking towards a booth, Ricky sat down next to Lucky, who still felt a bit uneasy beneath Asterion''s towering presence, though he was gradually growing more accustomed to it. The pizza was soon set down before them, and without hesitation, they began grabbing slice after slice.


    No one was an exception; for once, they all set aside their worries, the future problems, and just focused on the simple pleasure of enjoying a slice together.


    Laughter echoed in the booth as they all reveled in the moment, each enjoying the camaraderie and the makeshift feast. By the time they were done, they leaned back in their seats, bellies stuffed and faces content, with over ten empty trays stacked high around them.


    Burp


    "I-I can''t~" Alexander muttered, sprawled out on the table, his face flushed from the indulgence as beside him, Chester was laying on his back as well, rubbing his belly in exaggerated satisfaction.


    "Seriously, Slick, where did you get these guys?" Lucky muttered, unbuckling his belt as he glanced over at Asterion and Garfield, who were still scarfing down food, one slice after another, without a care in the world.


    "That fat cat literally popped out of reality, and this guy was in a cave," Ricky said with a shrug, offering a quick explanation and Lucky just sighed, shaking his head at the absurdity of it all.


    "Garfield, your stomach is mighty, but alas, this is a fight that cannot be won," Asterion said, patting his own stomach, revealing that he had four.


    "I-I-" Garfield, who still had pizza sauce on his mouth, struggled to continue, his words lost in between bites.


    Still holding the slice, Garfield stared at it, the cheesy goodness reflecting in his eyes as he looked up, determination burning in his gaze.


    "I will not, I cannot give up!" Garfield roared, stuffing his face with the pizza and chewing it thoroughly, ignoring the exhaustion from his earlier indulgence.


    "I am Garfield, the cosmic cat, and I will not fall in the face of food, never!" Garfield cheered, his voice full of conviction and Alexander, hearing the bold declaration, raised his paw in moral support.


    "HAZZAH!" Alexander roared, his spirit as unyielding as Garfield''s, cheering him on as Garfield dove back into the pizza with renewed determination.


    However, soon Garfield''s invigorated motion slowed as he stuffed his mouth, slice after slice, tray after tray, and briefly looked up at Asterion to see his pace.


    It was then that he saw it, Asterion''s raised gaze, looking down at him from his summit of victory. The sheer size of Asterion''s feast made Garfield''s efforts seem trivial; Asterion had quadrupled everything Garfield had eaten, and his composure remained unshaken as he looked at the fat cat, seemingly amused.


    "Your courage and spirit are commendable, but you''re three hundred years from being a worthy opponent." Asterion set down another tray of pizza, watching Garfield slowly fall to his knees in defeat before the mighty Asterion. The cosmic cat, the very same that was once brimming with confidence, now stared up at the towering figure, his once indomitable spirit faltering as he bowed to the greater force of appetite.


    "I-I lost?" Garfield''s chubby cheeks puffed out as he huffed, his gaze shaking in disbelief at the stark disparity between them.


    "B-But I am supposed to eat the most-"


    "Not anymore." Asterion''s voice was calm, almost serene, as he set down another tray, then another, stacking them high in front of Garfield, whose stomach was already stretched to its limit. Garfield''s eyes widened in disbelief, unable to comprehend how one could continue to eat so much as even he was at a loss before this mighty minotaur.


    It was then that it all hit Garfield, his stomach, already full to the brim, finally succumbed to the pressure. He fell to the side, his face contorted in a mix of exhaustion and disbelief as the overwhelming stuffed sensation eclipsed him. Asterion stood towering over all of him, the epitome of hunger and triumph, having claimed the title of the hungriest with ease


    "Uh, ok?" Ricky, also full by the side, simply let this all happen while looking at the almost comatose cat.


    "Do you guys think I should put Garfield on some sort of diet-"


    "Yes." Literally all of them said in union as Ricky nodded, sighing lightly.


    "Alright, Slick, are you finally ready to step up?" Lucky asked with a smirk, his eyes glinting with amusement as he gestured towards the side, where Antonio was clearing the metal plates from the table.


    It was then that some men began stacking paper in front of Ricky, towering high toward the ceiling before Ricky''s eyes narrowed as he looked at his new opponent, his next nemesis, paperwork.


    "You said you wanted to be like me, better than me. But to do that, you''ve gotta start from the bottom," Lucky said, tapping the table with a deliberate rhythm as he soon stood up, smoothly wrapping his scarf around his neck, the fabric settling with ease.


    "You delegated too much from the start and still don''t really understand how to manage not just the family, but even a simple club," Lucky said, his tone sharp but not unkind. "Now, you''ve got to play the game. You ready?" Lucky gestured to the mountain of papers in front of Ricky, showing that this wasn''t just about handling family affairs, but also managing the club''s operations.


    Lucky had thrived as the head of the family because he understood every position within the organization and made it run smoothly. He had experienced the struggles and demands of each role firsthand, which allowed him to operate with precision and efficiency.


    Ricky, on the other hand, had been a runner, even an enforcer at times, but he had never fully embraced the true responsibility of a Capo, paperwork. The numbers, the files, the contracts, the book keeping, they were the backbone of the operation, and it was a side of the business Ricky had yet to master.


    The job of a Capo wasn''t just about leading; it was about managing. They were responsible for overseeing the paper trail and the intricate web of business under the family''s control. Ricky had been supposed to learn the ropes through managing the clubs, but he had continuously passed that responsibility off to Jake. Lucky knew he had made a mistake by letting it happen in the first place, and now, he was determined to make sure it never happened again. Ricky''s eyes narrowed as he stared at the towering stack of paper in front of him, his resolve hardening. Some people believed that once you climbed one mountain, you''d reached the peak of another, but that was a misconception. Right now, standing at the summit of the mountain he''d climbed over the past three years, Ricky saw only a new, much higher peak ahead.


    But to reach that next peak, he first had to descend, and it wasn''t the climb up that broke most people, it was the journey down towards the next.


    A lot of people can climb a mountain, but it''s the way down that breaks them, because that''s the moment when you''re truly alone.


    Because that will be the moment that Ricky is truly alone and even now, even when he hadn''t even started descending, he will be faced with the questions.


    One that required not just physical strength, but mental fortitude, one that demanded not only his tireless effort but his unwavering resolve.


    This was something he needed to climb, to do in order to become the man Lucky envisioned for him, the man that he wanted to be, and the man that was needed to be the roots of the family, to be a leader.


    Ricky took a second, really taking in the surroundings of this summit while gazing around at everything he had done.


    Ricky had done it, he had climbed the mountain and finally gave himself that second of recognition that everyone else had already given him.


    But it was then that he took a step forward, towards the descent because Ricky was no longer afraid of the climb, of the challenges, and was alright starting from the bottom.


    Ricky was ready, Ricky was determined, and Ricky was hungry.


    "Yeah pops, I''m ready."


    2 weeks later,


    "I''m not ready~"


    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    5 advanced chaps on my paterion https://www.patreon.com/LaughingFiend

 Chapter 145 - 140: Settling In

    Chapter 145 - 140: Settling In


    BAM


    Ricky slammed his head onto the counter, the cool surface offering a brief moment of relief before his gaze returned to the mountain of papers towering before him. It had grown taller than it was two weeks ago, and the sight alone made his head ache.


    In these two weeks, Ricky had been plunged into a realm he was woefully unprepared for, a world dominated by pen and paper, contracts and ledgers, signatures and seals. For someone accustomed to dealing with problems through force, intimidation, and recklessness, the painstaking bureaucracy of running a family was a unique and grueling torment that he had never known.


    Managing the affairs of a family as its head required Ricky to understand and master an overwhelming array of responsibilities, each one more tedious and demanding than the last.


    For Financial management, Ricky was finally learning that money didn''t just appear when needed, it had to be managed. Income streams from legitimate businesses and illicit operations required meticulous bookkeeping. Ricky had to approve budgets, oversee payroll for everyone from the nightclub bartenders to the enforcers, and allocate funds for bribes, maintenance, and expansions. Then there was the matter of funneling and cleaning dirty money, a process that demanded far more than just increasing the amount of money coming in for revenue. Cleaning money wasn''t something that could be written off, it required a sharp understanding of the current budget before making alterations that could withstand scrutiny.


    Ricky needed to know exactly how much money was coming in, both from legitimate operations and the underworld dealings, before he could even begin the process of laundering it. Every dollar had to be accounted for in a way that made sense on paper as that meant threading it through legitimate businesses; nightclubs, restaurants, or real estate ventures; where it could be blended with clean income and emerge looking spotless.


    For example, one of the most profitable ventures was the Cotton and Stork club.


    These clubs had become a well-oiled machine for laundering money as profits from various illegal activities were funneled through its books, disguised as legitimate earnings from affluent patrons who frequented the venue.


    But the thing was that Ricky also had to study these ledgers closely, making sure that the adjustments wouldn''t raise red flags with accountants or, worse, the government. The sudden influx of cash in a small, struggling nightclub could arouse suspicion, just as an unexplained expense could hint at impropriety, and he didn''t want to give the FBI any more excuses to come looking for more bribe money since they were getting paid enough as is.


    Being certified under the high table meant that the family had to play by its rules but also allowed for them to reap all the benefits.


    This meant they could carry out operations without much intervention, as the High Table maintained a firm grip on the government, ensuring their activities were overlooked or subtly ignored. However, if they slipped up and were outrightly caught, they had to face consequences like any other corporation, paying hefty fines and penalties to maintain the facade of legitimacy.


    But this stack of documents didn''t just end at numbers, no, it couldn''t; there were deeds, contracts, and legal agreements to review. Ricky had to ensure the family businesses were registered properly even the fronts, avoid tax complications, and keep a web of politicians and lawyers happy. Ricky was genuinely flabbergasted as he sifted through yet another stack of records, his eyes scanning the names and amounts scrawled neatly in ink. It wasn''t just the sheer number of people on the Luciano payroll, it was the audacity of these smug politicians who preached about the betterment of the people where sending him letters asking if their bribe money would change with the shift in power.


    Almost every single politician, cop, and important government figure in their sphere of influence had a price tag attached to their name.


    Judges, senators, city council members, police captains, figures who were supposed to uphold the law or serve the public, were being paid off to turn a blind eye or pull strings when needed. Some of the bribes were modest, barely more than pocket money to grease the wheels while others were staggering sums that could fund a small business in themselves. But the pattern was clear: everyone had their price, and the Luciano family unfortunately had paid it.


    With the management of money were the assets but Ricky quickly learned that management wasn''t all about money, it was about people.


    People weren''t just assets; they were liabilities if handled poorly and so Ricky needed to review reports on each member''s performance, settle disputes, and decide promotions or punishments. Each decision affected morale and loyalty, and Ricky hated how a wrong word could cost him a good man or worse, form a rat.


    The problem was that you could never please everyone, because someone was affected regardless of how careful you were.


    For example, Ricky had assigned one of Lucky''s most trusted Capo''s Big Tony, to oversee the arrival of the coven settling into Staten island.


    Big Tony''s role was vital in Manhattan''s smuggling operation, and when he had to step back, his older brother, Little Tony, had to step up, quickly finding himself suddenly swamped leading to a backlog of work. These types of decisions constantly plagued Ricky, who struggled to find common ground in managing the balance of power and operations. The situation with Little Tony became so pressing that Frank had to step in to handle some of the workload, ensuring Manhattan''s operations continued to function smoothly.


    However Ricky couldn''t even focus on his own failures with the crisis piling up before him.


    The stack of papers seemed to grow overnight when a crisis hit and complaints about supply shortages, disputes over territory, and even personal grievances from family members often landed on Ricky''s desk. Each one required careful handling; too lenient, and he''d be seen as weak; too harsh, and he risked losing respect.


    BAM


    BAM


    BAM


    Ricky, seeing a chance to step away from the mountain of paperwork, jumped to his feet, grabbing his coat in one swift motion, eager to escape the confines of the office while still being productive.


    The frustration was taking its toll, as Ricky now found himself repeatedly slamming his forehead against the table. Jake, watching the scene unfold, chuckled softly before walking up to him.


    "Hey Slick, need a hand?" Jake asked, having barely been given anything to do since getting back and Ricky looked up, a weary expression on his face, but said nothing.


    "No, I''m fine it''s just that with all this work-"


    Ricky''s words were interrupted by Frank who opened the door with a piece of paper in his hands to add to the growing stack.


    "Aye, Slick, I know you''re busy, but there''s a problem in Harlem that needs a hand-" Frank said as he walked into Italiano''s while staring down at a piece of paper. Ricky, seeing a chance to step away from the mountain of paperwork, jumped to his feet, grabbing his coat in one swift motion, eager to escape the confines of the office while still being productive.


    "I got it, I''ll handle it!" Ricky suddenly yelled, interrupting Frank and literally just needing to leave this place. After being cooped up in the restaurant for the last two weeks, he desperately needed a breath of fresh air and this was the perfect opportunity to get out and stretch his legs while still addressing the family''s issues.


    "Wait Slick, about helping-" Jake tried to continue where he left off, only to hear a heavy sigh come from Ricky.


    Sigh


    Ricky slowly stopped, turning around to look at him as he patted Jake''s shoulder, giving him a firm, steady gaze.


    "Jake, listen, man, you''ve been through a lot," Ricky began, acknowledging Jake instead of brushing him off.


    "But baby steps. You''re just starting to get back on your feet, and I don''t want you rushing back into it like before, alright?" Ricky looked at Jake, who sighed but smiled, nodding as he patted his cheek.


    "I''ll be back either later today or tomorrow if you need anything." Ricky was about to walk away when he noticed Barko patiently sitting at the side.


    The deal Ricky and Barko had made was nearing fruition since while Ricky had been out during the trial, this black Labrador had expertly held down the clubs. His management was so efficient that it was easy for Ricky to step in and easily continue operations. However, there were still a few details that needed to be squared away, which is why Barko patiently waited for Ricky to finish before they could discuss the final points.


    "Oh sh*t Barko, your lab-"


    "It''s alright, I can wait, don''t worry," Barko smiled, his calm demeanor reflecting his understanding of how hectic Ricky''s life had been as he gave a nod of reassurance, not pushing him but showing his patience.


    Jake stood there in that moment, the light casting a soft glow on Ricky as he stepped forward, leaving Jake feeling as though he were standing in the shadows, frozen in place.


    Ricky seemed so distant, and it was only when Jake cleared his head that he truly understood the extent of that distance. For so long, Jake had fought to close the gap, pouring everything into it, but now, it felt wider than ever.


    "Ha, I ain''t nothing but average," Jake whispered, a bitter chuckle escaping his lips as he hung his head in resignation. Surrounded by so many gifted individuals, Jake couldn''t help but feel like the average Joe. He wasn''t bad at anything, but at the same time, he wasn''t exceptional either and it was such an uncomfortable place to be, caught in the middle of the extraordinary, unsure of where he fit in this world where everyone else seemed to have something remarkable to offer.


    At his bare bones, he''s a solid and reliable person, but he just doesn''t stand out.


    Though, from the side, Barko suddenly let out a laugh, shaking his head, but there was no judgment in it, just this quiet understanding.


    "Well, Mr. Average, do you really have time to be hanging your head?" Barko words suddenly jarred Jake''s head upwards, looking at Barko who was sitting in front of him.


    "Barko?" Jake called out, his words catching in his throat as the next sentence failed to come, unable to continue after realizing someone heard his deepest insecurity.


    However, Barko, understanding without needing an explanation, simply let out a bitter chuckle, his gaze softening with the weight of unspoken thoughts.


    "I know it may sound strange, but I understand how you''re feeling right now, what you''re feeling right now," Barko said softly, looking up at Jake as he saw him standing in the same place he had been two years ago, the same place he found himself before he had his talk with Asterion.


    "Three years ago, when I left on that boat with Ricky, I didn''t go because I wanted to follow him," Barko said, his voice low as his eyes were laced with a heavy amount of grief.


    "I went because I needed to figure out who I was." Barko whispered, looking down at his paw, the place where his hand used to be.


    "Becoming this thing, becoming a mutant, very much skewed my identity because for the longest time I was known as Professor Barko but now, I am just Barko." Barko put down his paw, resuming his gaze at Jake, who was quiet.


    "Back then, my studies were groundbreaking. Well, they were supposed to be groundbreaking until I found myself in the form of a dog." Barko let out a small, self-deprecating chuckle, speaking about what could have never been.


    "Stripped of everything I ever had and then cast as nothing more than a carnival act, it really hurt." Barko was very thoughtful about his own experiences telling Jake about his life as the latter felt a little guilty for always thinking of him as insignificant to the grand scheme of things.


    "I think the hardest part about becoming who I am now was that it felt like no one ever really saw me, the real me." Barko placed his paw on his chest, before casting his gaze downward.


    "Even when I started following Ricky, the light just never seemed to shine on me, but on him." Barko chuckled at those words, remembering all the times that Ricky, unknowingly, captivated even his gaze.


    "I won''t be afraid to admit that even now, I''m jealous of how the world seems to look at Ricky and forgets about me until I''m right next to him." Barko voiced his own insecurity, feeling only seen whenever he was right next to Ricky or in his sphere of influence.


    "It hurt for a long time, because sometimes, even now, I still think of myself as this prote?ge? that defies comprehension." Barko slowly gazed back up at Jake, who simply stood before someone he once regarded as a mere dog, left at a loss for words.


    "But right now, I''m not the strongest in anything." Barko''s voice softened, the weight of his words hanging in the air as he looked directly at Jake, sharing the vulnerability he often kept hidden.


    "I''m not the strongest, I''m not the fastest, and I''m not even the smartest." Barko chuckled, but there was no bitterness in it which caught Jake off guard, leaving him momentarily lost for words.


    "I don''t even really think about those facts often, but there''s one or two times a year when it really registers, and I''m left reeling with the reality of my surroundings." Barko explained, gesturing toward the shadows and the dimly lit restaurant they were in, his gaze lingering on the faint outlines of the world around them.


    "And at that moment, I can''t help but think that I am merely average." Barko voiced the truth that lingered in the depths of his being, a truth that, despite everything he had done, was hard to ignore.


    Barko wasn''t someone who would never be considered the strongest, he wasn''t the most intellectually capable even with his keen intellect, and he certainly wasn''t someone who stood out. He faded into the background, forgotten and often overlooked, but the worst part of it all was that he was fully cognizant of this fact. "As you start to get older, you begin to realize just how vast the world really is. With every towering sight I see before me, it''s hard not to feel small, insignificant in the grand scheme of things." Barko''s voice softened, his gaze distant as he let his words settle in the air as he could see the same look in Jake''s eyes, the same frustration and uncertainty he once carried. The same struggle to find his place in a world that often feels too big to conquer.


    "Most of the time, you don''t think about your place in the world," Barko said, his voice steady but filled with the weight of experience. "But those occasional moments, those one or two times, when you realize that whatever you''re doing, there are countless others who have been doing it and practicing it for years and it makes you feel small." Barko paused, his eyes distant as he remembered his own feelings before closing his eyes. "That''s how I felt when I first dipped my paw into the world of magic." Barko revealed, thinking that it would be exactly like the world of science when he first started.


    The knowledge was exciting, along with the research, but the deeper he delved into Abraham''s journals and spent time with the coven, the more he found himself shrinking in comparison. I mean, he was given access to information that some people could only dream of, and yet, instead of feeling empowered, he couldn''t shake the feeling of being even smaller than before.


    Barko couldn''t help but lament the starting point, the setbacks, and all the trials he had been faced with, because that''s how some people thought, seeing only the obstacles instead of the growth that came from overcoming them.


    "But that''s not a reason to give up," Barko''s words fanned the dwindling flames within Jake''s heart, causing his eyes to widen in realization.


    "You don''t have to be number one in order to feel worthwhile, to feel like you belong," Barko explained, his words sinking in, but Jake clenched his fist, wiping his eyes as a mixture of frustration and understanding crossed his face.


    "But what do I do when I feel like I belong, when I''m given this place that I don''t feel like I deserve, and everything, no matter how hard I try, seems to go wrong, even when I put all my effort into it?" Jake vented, clutching his chest as his exterior seemed to crumble, his vulnerability showing through.


    "I wanted to prove myself, to show I deserve all things handed to me by my brother and Ricky but in every scenario, in every task I''m given, I just seem to always fail to live up to the standards set for me." Jake covered his eyes, feeling all but hopeless as Barko slowly nodded.


    "When everything is going wrong, when everything you''ve ever done has crumbled, that is when that painful feeling of mediocrity settles in." Barko explained, sighing at that very feeling that has plagued him for so long.


    "Nevermind being number one or trying to prove ourselves, it feels as if we are not moving at all, that we are stuck in place." Barko confessed, feeling even now to be in the same place even with all the strides he had put in.


    "But every time you feel like nothing is going the way you want it to and it all feels hopeless, you have to understand one thing." Barko''s words echoed in Jake''s ears, his eyes tearing up as it all settled heavily on his heart.


    "Do you really have time to be hanging your head, Mr. Average?" Barko repeated the same words from earlier as Jake slowly looked back at him, seeing Barko standing tall with his chest puffed out.


    "Because you might never be the strongest, you might never be the smartest, and you might always be average." Barko revealed the painful truth only to chuckle at his next words.


    "But in that saying, you will never be the weakest, you will never be the dumbest, and that''s because you''ll always be average," Barko said with a grin as his words didn''t immediately make Jake feel any better, but he wasn''t finished.


    "But even when you''re average right now, what''s to say that tomorrow can''t be different?" Barko asked, his voice steady and Jake slowly wiped away the tears, his gaze meeting a mere dog as the words began to sink in.


    "People go their whole lives without trying, without putting in the effort, and they end up hanging their head and saying that they can never climb that mountain." Barko words seemingly revealed an enormous mountain that slowly started to take shape behind him as Jake looked up at it.


    "It might not be easy for you, it might be filled with constant setbacks, and that mountain you''re facing might be higher than anything anyone has ever faced before," Barko said, his words acknowledging the weight of the challenge ahead, as if to erase the illusion of ease that came with climbing such a mountain.


    "But what''s stopping you from that climb, from taking that next step?" Barko asked, despite everything he had just said, his voice steady as if to challenge the heaviness of his own words, the ones that spoke of struggle and grief, yet still invited the chance to push forward.


    "And Ricky, the people you look up at, standing on that summit, they didn''t just get there automatically," Barko continued, his words cutting through Jake''s haze, drawing attention to the mountain Ricky had been struggling to climb, and the unseen effort it took to reach the top.


    "Ricky had to climb that mountain too, he got there because he put in that grueling effort and didn''t succeed but failed, time and time again," Barko''s words showed the scratch marks, the blood dug into that mountain to form any sort of grip and pick himself up.


    "Ricky suffered, he fell down, but above all, he always got back up," Barko showed his appreciation, not his jealousy, since it was easy just to say that Ricky got to where he was without trying.


    "Even if the mountain felt suffocating, even if the fall was crippling, Ricky always got back up, he made the climb." Barko then turned towards the mountain, knowing he had yet to still climb himself.


    "But there''s a reason that everyone is trying to climb this mountain, there''s a reason you''re standing right before it," Barko said, turning back with a smile.


    "It''s because you want to." The words made Jake slowly freeze, feeling the coldness of the shadows, but in that instant, he felt a glimmer of sunlight peer from the side of the mountain, bathing him in its warmth.


    "That mountain might be tall but it''s not going to get any easier if you hang your head." Barko chuckled, knowing full well that sitting around and doing nothing would never solve anything.


    "And why would you need it to be easier?" Barko asked, emphasizing that the effort is what makes the trials and tribulations worthwhile.


    "Sure, there''s a high summit in front of you, but it''s not like there''s anything stopping you from taking that climb." Barko wasn''t giving Jake advice, he was telling him that it was possible.


    "And that self-loathing, those thoughts of mediocrity, they don''t go away by beating yourself up and constantly measuring yourself to others." Barko laughed, showing that the constant comparisons will never go away and will always stay with you.


    "No matter how rough things are and how painful things can be for you right now, the only thing to do is lift your head up." Barko smiled, wishing that there was someone for him when he was struggling three years ago because it wasn''t until a year ago did he really understand.


    Barko had long struggled with where he belonged, but it took him even longer to really accept it.


    Because the reality was, some people would never climb that mountain, would never reach the summit, and would always look up.


    But that didn''t mean you couldn''t try.


    "So, once you''ve realized that things aren''t going your way and that mountain seems just a little bit taller after you fall, the only thing to do is stand up once more and try again." Barko smiled warmly, seemingly telling his younger self and finally getting the closure he needed for all those years of suffering he put himself through.


    "Because you can do it." Barko''s words made Jake almost collapse as he really felt all the things that Barko said.


    Sniff


    Sometimes everything will feel meaningless, and most times your efforts will feel worthless, but that doesn''t mean you have to accept it. If life always gave you everything, then your story would never be any fun to tell since it''s because of those failures that our stories become more worthwhile.


    So when it all feels hopeless, when everything crumbles to the ground, and you''re left reeling with everything you could never achieve, remember, when you look up at what''s next, you can only ever utter one thing.


    "I can do it," Jake said, wiping his eyes as his resolve made Barko smile, watching as he walked towards the door, towards the mountain


    "I''m gonna find my way," Jake resolved, stepping forward with newfound determination, refusing to remain stagnant or dwell on the past.


    "Aye, Barko, your pizza''s ready!" Antonio called out, walking over and placing it on the counter. Barko slowly turned his head, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly as he began walking toward it.


    As he walked, his collar glimmered, and his form began to shift, fur rippling as he morphed into the towering figure of a werewolf. With a smooth movement, he leapt onto the seat, settling down with a hum of satisfaction before grabbing the slice of pizza.


    "See you at the top, Jake."


    Meanwhile in Harlem,


    In the new building that Madame had acquired after shutting down the Numbers game, she was meticulously managing the various matters that now demanded her attention. The sleek, polished interiors reflected the change in her operations, the once chaotic hustle of her previous business now replaced with a more controlled, strategic approach. Every detail was in its place, as Madame sat at her desk, her eyes scanning the papers before her, her mind focused on ensuring her new start ran smoothly.


    BAM


    "Madame St. Clair, I knew you''d wait for me!" Ricky burst through the door, arms wide, his grin as confident as ever. The entrance was exactly like him and it caused her to immediately roll her eyes, but a smile tugged at the corner of her lips despite herself.


    "If it isn''t White Boy Ricky," Madame St. Clair remarked, her voice dripping with a mix of amusement and familiarity as the nickname had been coined for him in Harlem, and as Ricky approached her, it was as if the title followed him in like a shadow.


    "Or it is your favorite snack, white chocolate, delivered to you personally on a silver platter," Ricky laughed, gesturing to himself with a flourish as if presenting a grand gift. Madame St. Clair rolled her eyes and tossed her pen onto the desk, clearly unimpressed, though the hint of a smile continued to play at the corners of her mouth.


    "Oh my lord," Madame St. Clair shook her head, wanting to scoff, but instead a chuckle slipped out.


    "But be careful with my wrapper, I just got this suit pressed-" Ricky gestured to his outfit, undoing the buttons, as Madame St. Clair pinched the bridge of her nose.


    "I thought you would send a Capo-"


    "Oh baby, you get the VIP treatment, you get the real deal~" Ricky danced in place, going all out, making Madame cringe as she held up her hand.


    "Listen Ricky-"


    "No, I get it, you couldn''t wait another day for a date, so you called me in advance. I know." Ricky nodded his head, sitting on her desk before leaning down.


    "How about this: Me and you, at a five-star restaurant, with a dress you''ll get after I take you on a shopping spree and buy you whatever someone with such refined taste desires. Then we''ll end the night overlooking the beautiful city from a top-of-the-line suite." Ricky gestured towards Madame, highlighting the entire plan, spreading out his hands as if imagining it right now as she looked at him for a moment before realizing something.


    "Oh my god I forgot I owe you a date." Madame St. Clair remembered, covering her mouth after promising him before he left to be the Black Knight before looking up at Ricky with a dazed expression, actually caught off guard.


    "I-you-"


    "Shhhhhh, I already know you''re madly in love with me, so let''s skip the wordplay and go straight for that chocolate dessert." Ricky leaned down, only to have his lips suddenly clamped by Madame, trying to hold an angry expression, though she couldn''t help but stifle a laugh even when she tried not to.


    "Fine, I''ll keep my promise." Madame St. Clair said, hanging her words purposely on its ends that made Ricky scrunch his brows.


    "But?" Ricky asked, sensing there was something else as she smiled.


    "I need you to find someone, more specifically Bumpy." Madame released his lips, and Ricky nodded, understanding the task at hand as if it was the easiest thing on earth.


    "Is that all, alright."


    WHISTLE SOUND


    Ricky whistled out, pressing his fingers to his mouth before turning around and opening the door of her office.


    "Bumpy, Bumpy, come here boy!" Ricky called out, slapping his thighs to beckon him over like some sort of dog, treating the situation like some sort of joke as he repeated the call for another two minutes before finally turning back with a slight shrug.


    "Did you send him to get neutered or something-" Ricky began with a serious expression, only for Madame to throw a pen at him with a sharp flick of her wrist.


    "I''m serious, Ricky, he''s been missing for three weeks now!" Madame yelled, clearly embarrassed and ashamed of his actions, unlike him, who saw it as a regular Saturday.


    "Alright, geez, I''ll do it, but remember......" Ricky didn''t finish, instead raising his eyebrows up and down at the implications of his word before closing the door.


    Sigh


    "White boys~" Madame let out a loud sigh, leaning back in her seat before glancing back at the door.


    "F*cking, white boys~"


    10 minutes later,


    "Man, this is kind of lonely," Ricky thought out loud, strolling down the empty streets, the only company being his own footsteps.


    Everyone was busy, each wrapped up in their own affairs. Alexander was locked in a fierce card game with Chester, trying to finally beat him at his own game. Asterion had somehow found himself at the Statue of Liberty again, visiting it for the eighth time this week. And Garfield? Well, Ricky had no idea what he was up to, as usual.


    What Garfiled was doing:


    "Do you think I''m afraid? Do you think you scare me?" Garfield''s voice was cold, cutting through the silence as he glared across the desk, the light above him casting a sharp shadow over his face. He squinted his eyes, making it clear that he wasn''t intimidated, despite the tension that hung in the air.


    "TALK, TALK I SAY!" Garfield growled, grabbing the light above him and swinging it toward a slice of pizza on the table, his fingers trembling with frustration. "Then I guess we''ll have to do this the hard way." Garfield growled, grabbing his bib and tying it around his neck with exaggerated care, his eyes narrowing as he stared directly at the reader. "You''re going to want to look away, it''s going to get ugly," Garfield seriously said, trying to save the reader from the scene that would''ve graced their eyes. With a dramatic gesture, he moved the reader''s attention back to Ricky, who had been walking aimlessly down the street, only to halt suddenly.


    "Dammit, I forgot to ask where Bumpy lived so I can use my cheat item or skill or whatever," Ricky muttered to himself, already turning around to head back to Madame''s office but then he suddenly stopped.


    "No wait, I''ll look weak and my cheesy power move from before will be watered down, I gotta improvise."


    5 minutes later of Ricky improvising,


    "Yeah, so I thought I''d start my improvising with one of your cocktails before I really get started," Ricky said, leaning casually against the bar as Buck let out a hearty laugh, wiping his hands on a towel before grabbing a bottle.


    ''It''s good to see you too, Slick.'' Buck signed with his hands, laughing at Ricky, who joined in with a chuckle of his own.


    "Sorry about that, how have you been, buddy?" Ricky patted Buck, who puffed out his chest proudly before pulling out a locket he wore and showing it to him.


    "Beautiful family you got there." Ricky complimented, seeing Buck with his wife and three children.


    ''I just bought a house with the loan from your bank so thank-"


    "Buck don''t thank me, your cocktails are more than worth it." Ricky stopped him, cheering the glass to Buck who laughed, nodding his head.


    "But seriously, got any word on Bumpy? I literally have no idea where to start." Ricky asked, looking at Buck, who thought for a moment before nodding.


    ''Actually, there were some rumors he''s been barhopping and-wait, a month ago I saw him talking to someone.'' Bumpy signed suddenly only to stop his own fingers, making Ricky lean in.


    "Who?" Ricky asked, confused, as Bumpy grinned from ear to ear.


    BAM


    Suddenly, the door to an apartment burst open, and Ricky walked in, spreading his arms wide.


    "Booker, I''m back!" Ricky yelled out, only to freeze at the sight before him.


    "Booker, I''m back!" Ricky yelled out, only to freeze at the sight before him as instead of Booker, an old black woman sat in a rocking chair, knitting quietly.


    "You''re not Booker." Ricky pointed at the old lady, stating the obvious as she raised one of her eyebrows.


    "No, I''m the one whose door you just kicked down." The old lady pointed her sewing needle at Ricky, her gaze sharp.


    "Whoops, my bad." Ricky glanced at the door, now hanging off its hinges, before pulling out a hundred-dollar bill and offering it to her with a grin.


    "Would this make us best of friends?" Ricky asked with a grin, holding out the hundred-dollar bill as the old black lady put on her glasses, studied the bill for a moment, then swiped it with a plain expression.


    "No, but it does clean the slate," The old black woman replied, her voice steady as she turned toward the kitchen.


    "Now come and eat, my chicken pot pie is about to be finished," the old woman gestured to Ricky, who was about to turn away but paused, rubbing his stomach at the mention of food then looking at the oven brimming with a delicious meal.


    "F*ck it."


    5 minutes later,


    "Holy shit, this is so good I wanna have sex with it," Ricky exclaimed, digging into the chicken pot pie. The old woman he learned was named Ethel, continued knitting at the table, unfazed by his comment.


    Instead of showing a weird expression, she nodded as if she understood as if it was obvious.


    "You know that''s right," Ethel hummed, not shy about the praise as she knew her cooking was top-notch and didn''t need to be humble about it.


    "Like I just wanna get naked and slather my nuts with this sh*t, is that weird?" Ricky asked, utterly devouring the chicken pot pie all the while Ethel simply shook her head.


    "Not when you eat my pot pie." "Can I just drop by and eat your cooking, like, can I just come out of the blue?" Ricky asked, unable to ever look at chicken pot pies the same way after this encounter, only for Ethel to shrug.


    "If you don''t kick down my door." Ethel replied with a simple offer, continuing to knit as if this was actually normal.


    "God dammit, Ethel, you''re just the perfect woman," Ricky wiped his mouth, standing up as Ethel moved to him after finishing her knitting.


    She draped a black scarf with green accents around his neck, its colors perfectly complementing his eyes and with a soft pat on his chest, she gave him a knowing look.


    "I know," Ethel smiled, escorting Ricky to the door and waving him off but just as he stepped outside, two guys arrived to fix her door, ready to handle the mess he''d left behind.


    "Mmmmmmh~" Ethel sipped on some iced tea, watching the young men work. They weren''t just fixing the door, they were replacing it entirely, making sure it was better than before as she leaned back in her chair, content, as the men worked diligently.


    Meanwhile, at the club, Buck was wiping down the counter, his movements slow and methodical as he cleaned up after the evening crowd. The sound of the door opening caught his attention, and he looked up, spotting Ricky walking in.


    "Do you have his real address? I left too fast when you said his name," Ricky asked, his tone casual but focused as he leaned against the bar, making Buck chuckled, shaking his head as he scribbled down the address on a piece of paper. "YOU''RE THE BEST, BUCK!" Ricky shouted as he ran out of the club, his voice echoing in the empty space and Buck simply nodded, already knowing this.


    BAM


    "Wha-What?!" Booker yelped, playing with his kids in the living room as he barely had time to react before his door was kicked open, and instinctively, he dove over his children, using his body as a shield.


    "Booker, I''m back!" Ricky yelled out, spreading his arms wide, causing a mix of reactions to ripple through the household.


    "Wha-"


    "SLICK, WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE!?" Booker shouted, completely embarrassed and shocked, as Ricky snapped his fingers.


    "That''s the reaction I was looking for, good old Booker," Ricky said, waving his finger as Booker incredulously stared at him.


    "Uncle Slick!" Booker''s kids scrambled out of his arms and rushed toward Ricky, who bent down with his arms spread wide, ready to scoop them up.


    Giggles erupted from his three kids as Ricky scooped them up into his arms, spinning them around with laughter filling the air.


    "Slick, what are you doing here?" Tania asked, her surprise quickly turning into a smile as she patted Booker''s shocked shoulders.


    "It''s obvious, he came here to see me!" Louis suddenly interrupted, bursting into laughter, only to be swiftly slapped by his wife, Bernice.


    "Really, Louis? Just like you to ruin a good moment." Bernice shook her head, sitting at the table as Louis muttered something under his breath.


    "What was that!"


    "Nothing, woman, damn!" Louis grumbled, pulling the newspaper backup and burying his face in it, clearly trying to avoid further attention.


    "Can''t a guy just drop by and see his favorite trumpet player?" Ricky asked, setting the feral kids down, who immediately started clinging to his limbs, making it clear they weren''t ready to let him go just yet.


    "Not without wanting something first-ow!" Booker sighed, only to have his back slapped by Tania, who shot him a playful yet disapproving look.


    "Booker, rude." Tania reprimanded, shaking her head before putting on a hostess smile towards Ricky.


    "Slick, come over here and have some of this iced tea I made." Tania beckoned him over to the table, walking over to the kitchen to go get the pitcher.


    "I mean, if you insist." Ricky smirked, walking over to the side as Booker reluctantly followed, both of them settling at the table.


    "Uncle Slick, Uncle Slick, did you get us anything!"


    "Yeah, anything!"


    "We want things!"


    The kids all burst out at the same time as Ricky held their small attention spans within the palm of his hands as he held it out towards them.


    "Only this hundred dollar bill, what!" Ricky seemingly was surprised for the both of them, making it appear seemingly out of nowhere as their eyes sparkled.


    "Go get it!" Ricky yelled, crumpling the paper and tossing it behind him as the kids immediately scrambled to fetch it as he turned back to Booker, who was currently scrunching his eyebrows.


    "Are you playing fetch with my kids?" Booker asked with a weird expression, his eyes drifting to his kids fighting over the crumpled bill at the side.


    "Would it be a bad thing if I did?" Ricky asked with a playful smile, watching as Booker furrowed his brow even further. "I''m just f*cking with you Booker, anyways, I came here about Bumpy." Ricky laughed, changing the subject only for Booker to scrunch his brows to their limits.


    "So you''re not denying it-"


    "That cat that smelled like he was his own on the road bar?" Louis, Booker''s father, chimed in from the side as Ricky raised a brow.


    "That doesn''t sound like Bumpy, the words I''d describe him are annoying, dutiful, and Madame''s lap dog." Ricky wondered if they were confusing the two people named Bumpy, but Booker shook his head, sighing lightly.


    "That was the case until around a month ago, and then out of nowhere, he became a trainwreck," Booker explained, his wife rubbing his back since it was a touchy subject for him.


    Then Booker went on to briefly explain how, after Ricky left, Bumpy had been trying to become more of a notable figure within Harlem, aiming to stand side by side with Madame. He had worked hard, cultivating his own presence, and had even become a standalone figure within the community, no longer simply seen as Madame''s associate but then, as if out of nowhere, he just started to spiral.


    In fact, Booker came across him by chance when he was smoking outside, seeing Bumpy cradling a bottle in an alley. The sight was unsettling as Bumpy, the once confident and determined figure, reduced to a shell of himself. Booker didn''t hesitate and tried to clean him up, offering him a place to sleep on their couch for the night. But by the next morning, Bumpy was gone, leaving nothing behind but the lingering scent of whiskey and regret.


    "I really don''t know what happened to make him like that, I tried to help but-"


    "Did he leave anything, like a jacket or something?" Ricky stood up, his fingers searching through the cushions, only to be met with literally nothing, not even jammed wrappers or lint.


    ''Damn, this is one clean couch.''


    "Honey, the only place Bumpy''s been seen is in bars." Tania shook her head with a dejected sigh, causing Ricky to frown as he scratched his head in thought.


    "Well alright, it was good seeing you Booker-"


    "Actually, my husband here got some wonderful news recently-"


    "Tania, stop it," Booker said, stopping her as she sat back down as he walked over to Ricky and extended his hand, shaking it firmly.


    "It was good seeing you, Slick. If you want to drop by, please do. Just, uh, not if it''s to play fetch with my kids," Booker laughed, only for Ricky to raise his gaze, a playful smirk crossing his face.


    "What is it, Booker? Spit it out, since you know if anyone''s harassing you, I''ll take care of them," Ricky said, thinking someone was giving Booker a hard time ashe held up his free hand, signaling for Ricky to calm down.


    "It ain''t nothing like that, it''s just-" Booker began to speak, letting go of the handshake as he rubbed the back of his neck and ducked his head, unable to finish the sentence.


    "It''s nothing." Booker tried to evade it but Ricky frowned, crossing his arms as if he wasn''t going to move unless he told him.


    Sigh


    "I got offered a record deal down in Atlanta, but I''m not gonna take it," Booker revealed, and Ricky looked at him, briefly surprised.


    "Wow, really?" Ricky asked, glancing at Tania, who stood up, shaking her head in disbelief.


    "My baby is the jazziest trumpet player since Armstrong and I just know that everyone in the world wants to hear it but-"


    "I''m not gonna abandon the Cotton Club, not after everything they''ve done for me, for us!" Booker yelled back at Tania, who shrunk in her seat, her eyes lowering as she took in the weight of his words.


    Tania wanted to retort, but instead, she sat back, reflecting on how far they had come. The cramped two-bedroom apartment that used to fit all seven of them had long been a thing of the past.


    Now, they were living in a place that, in their wildest dreams, they never would have thought possible, thanks to Ricky''s intervention. Booker, ever the loyal man, had always been fiercely committed to those who helped him, and the record deal in Atlanta was no different. He turned it down without a second thought, because he owed everything to Ricky and the Cotton Club and he felt it would insult him if he''d just leave after everything. It was just that Ricky didn''t see it that way.


    "Why not?" Ricky suddenly asked, everyone looking up to see him unbothered in the least.


    "Isn''t your dream to be the best trumpet player or something like that? I think you should do it." Ricky nudged Booker, watching as the words left him momentarily speechless. Booker stood there, caught off guard by the sincerity in Ricky''s voice, his mind racing as he tried to process the unexpected support since if anything, he thought that maybe he would be disappointed at the very least.


    "But Slick, I''m the club''s headliner and-"


    "Ah, don''t worry about that man." RIcky waved off his worries, swatting awya the notion that Booker leaving would leave him high and dry.


    "Listen, Booker, don''t worry about me." Ricky grabbed Booker''s shoulders, shaking him lightly with a laugh.


    "I''m going to be fine, I can even take a bullet so you should do not only what you should, but what you want." Ricky showed a toothy smile as Booker was a little lost for words.


    "And besides, it would be way more beneficial for me if I knew one of the most famous trumpet players rather than a club headliner if I ever decide to get into the music business later on." Ricky then reached into his coat pocket, ruffling around before pulling out his card.


    "Listen, I think you should take it, you''d be an idiot not to." Ricky then stuffed a card into Booker''s shirt pocket, leaving the stunned man speechless.


    "That''s my card. If you ever get into trouble or need something, show that card or get a hold of me, and I''ll fix it." Ricky waved to his family before stepping onto the grass, heading out of the house as Booker rushed out behind him, calling out.


    "But Slick, what about everything you''ve done for us, I can''t just skip out-"


    SIgh


    Ricky sighed, turning back to Booker, who was still standing there, clearly in doubt and Ricky knew he needed to be real with him, so he stepped back toward him, his voice firm but gentle.


    "Three years ago I was a f*cking wreck, Booker," Ricky said, his eyes locking onto his as he watched as Booker flinched, the weight of the words sinking in. "I went around destroying my body with alcohol and drugs. I even dragged you into my shenanigans." Ricky''s voice was raw, the weight of those words hanging between them. "But not once, not a single time, when I was passed out, high off my mind, and just utterly wasted in need, did you ever turn me away." Ricky looked at Booker with a heartfelt smile, the emotion genuine and it forced him to simply stand there, a little surprised\.


    "Whenever I needed a bed to crash in, a place to stay, you and your family opened your doors to me, and that meant a lot," Ricky said, his voice heavy with meaning since Booker had always been there whenever he needed him to be, even if those moments were a flash in the pan, and he would never forget that loyalty.


    "I want you to succeed, Booker. You did a lot for me and in my eyes, you don''t owe me jack." Ricky then walked toward his car, opened the door, and looked back.


    "So even if you leave and become a superstar, then lose it all, no matter what, I''ll find a place for you, ''cause it''s me who owes you." Ricky then got into the car, rolled down the window, and looked at Booker.


    "So stop being such a pussy and actually reach higher instead of settling for what you''re given." Ricky then sped off, leaving Booker with a lot to digest as he watched him drive away.


    Booker was never meant to be anything more than an off-hand bartender who played music in his spare time. Someone fated to watch from the shadows as others succeeded while he grounded himself to provide for his family. But through sheer luck, Booker became intertwined with Ricky, and with that, his life, his fate, was forever changed.


    "Okay, Slick, I''ll reach higher." Booker laughed, wiping his eyes as he turned back to his family, excitement bubbling up within him as they rushed around him.


    Booker would no longer be fated for such an ending; instead, he would go on to be considered one of the godfathers of blues. Ricky watched this scene in his rearview mirror, smiling as, although he wasn''t a good person and usually ended up making others'' lives worse, it felt good to have helped Booker. Booker was one of those dependable people who would never compromise you, no matter the state you were in, and would always be there for you.


    Ricky hadn''t appreciated it before, but he did now. Seeing a chance to help the guy who had always unknowingly helped him, he finally released him. It was gradual, but Ricky was learning that sometimes, being someone dependable wasn''t just about looking after others, it was about making sure that the people around you grew. The outside world could kick rocks, but within his circle, Ricky genuinely wanted them to be happy. Watching Booker laugh with his family, seeing the spark of hope in their eyes at what lay ahead, made Ricky smile. He was starting to understand that true support wasn''t about holding people back, but helping them rise.


    "Good on you, Booker, good on you." Ricky muttered to himself, a rare sense of satisfaction creeping into his chest. He drove off down the road, the familiar hum of his engine lulling him into a comfortable silence and after a while, he arrived at the nearest bar.


    The usual scenario played out whenever he entered a bar within the grounds of Harlem.


    "S-Slick!?" The residents would usually call out, afraid that they had done something wrong or accidentally forgot a protection payment.


    "Relax, I''m looking for Bumpy and was wondering if anyone saw him?" Ricky would usually ask, getting a drink while he was proning for an answer before suddenly found himself on a bar crawl.


    For the rest of the day, Ricky made his way through seven different bars, each one confirming they''d served Bumpy earlier that same day until he found himself in the back alley of the last bar.


    "Wow, if this isn''t ironic," Ricky chuckled, the sound of his shoes clicking against the pavement as he walked toward a disheveled man clutching a bottle of rum wrapped in a brown paper bag.


    "Usually, it''s you who comes on Madame''s behalf to find me at the end of a bottle. Ain''t this just a twist?" Ricky bent down, staring at the man who slowly raised his stubbled face to meet his gaze.


    "Hey Bumpy, how have you been?" Ricky asked, smiling ear to ear, but the man simply took another sip of his rum, his eyes flicking up to meet Ricky''s before looking back down.


    "Go away, Slick, I just want to be alone-hey!" Bumpy tried to swat Ricky''s hand away, but before he could, he was suddenly yanked to the side, stumbling and yelling as he was forcefully dragged out of the damp, dark alley.


    "Let go-damn man, when did you get so strong!?" Bumpy yelled, trying to pry Ricky''s grip off of him, but he was still being dragged further out of the alleyway.


    Whistle


    Ricky whistled a calm tune, unbothered as he continued dragging Bumpy down the sidewalk. Passersby stopped, pointed, and whispered among themselves, but Ricky didn''t pay them any mind as he just kept walking, dragging Bumpy along like it was the most normal thing in the world.


    "Arck!" Bumpy yelled as Ricky hurled him into a convenience store, sending him crashing into a display of chips. The clerk behind the counter went pale, wide-eyed, unsure whether to call for help or pretend nothing had happened. Bumpy groaned, trying to push himself up, but his limbs felt heavy from both the booze and the abrupt toss.


    "I-I-I-"


    "Give me a mirror," Ricky said flatly, his eyes never leaving Bumpy and the clerk, still trembling, scrambled to comply, rushing to hand him a small handheld mirror.


    Ricky took the mirror and, with a swift motion, shoved it in Bumpy''s face as the man recoiled at first, still a little dazed.


    "Look." Ricky''s words jarred Bumpy''s sight forward, looking towards someone unrecognizable.


    Instead of a prim and proper figure, his entire clothes were disheveled and slightly torn.


    Instead of a nice face and trimmed beard, he was met with an untamed stubble and an unkempt mini afro.


    The man Bumpy had once been, proud and confident, was nowhere to be seen and instead, a broken man appeared in the mirror, a hollow shell reflecting towards him while showing what he was now.


    "Look at yourself Bumpy, this isn''t you-"


    "Save it, I get it." Bumpy hatefully pushed the mirror away, wobbling up with a slightly buzzed figure before looking at RIcky.


    It was as if their fates had been switched since the last time they''d crossed paths, one had picked up all his bearings, the other had lost it all. Ricky stood tall, his presence as commanding as ever, a stark contrast to the crumbling figure before him. Bumpy, once the one who seemed to have it all together, now stood broken, his resolve shattered, unable to recognize the man he had once been.


    "Hey, get out." Ricky glanced at the store clerk, who didn''t hesitate for a second and without a word, the man abandoned his post and hurried out of the store he was supposed to be managing.


    "Not you." Ricky grabbed Bumpy, stopping him from following as he pushed back to the stop he just was at, eliciting a deep frown.


    "I don''t need your help-"


    "Well to bad Madame-"


    "Just leave me alone!" Bumpy stumbled to the side, huffing, his body shaking slightly as he turned away.


    "Please, just leave me alone." Bumpy''s voice was broken, and Ricky couldn''t help but raise an eyebrow since from what he knew, this entire scenario was all out of place.


    Bumpy had always been at Madame St. Clair''s beck and call, chasing after her with an obvious interest, but as Ricky stood there, something clicked in his mind as his eyes widened as the thought crossed him.


    "Oh my god, she rejected you, didn''t she?!" Ricky suddenly burst out laughing, but as soon as the words left his mouth, he realized how instinctive the reaction was as he quickly tried to stifle it, but it was too late, Bumpy rushed at him, anger flashing in his eyes.


    SLAP


    Ricky suddenly backhanded Bumpy, raising an eyebrow as he watched the man stumble to the ground.


    "Normally, I wouldn''t care, since you probably couldn''t hurt me. But come on, Bumpy, this is Italian leather." Ricky gestured to his suit, watching as Bumpy wiped his mouth, blood dripping from his nose.


    "You can''t wrinkle this and it costs a fortune, so no way in hell am I letting you touch me-"


    SLAP


    Bumpy lunged at Ricky only to be slapped into the ground once more, before the latter placed a foot on his back.


    "What did I just say, Bumpy? You''re not touching me while I''m wearing a suit custom-made by Rotolo." Ricky scoffed, adjusting his suit and glancing down at Bumpy, hitting his ankle.


    Sigh


    "This might take a while."


    A while later,


    Huff


    Huff


    Ricky, his foot now planted firmly on Bumpy''s head, waited patiently for him to finish his tantrum and eventually, Bumpy collapsed his efforts, completely defeated.


    Sniff


    "I-I loved her, Slick." Bumpy horse voice let out, muttering to the side as Ricky finally released his hold on him, but Bumpy still laid on the ground trembling.


    "But I was alright with what we had, with what I had but I-"


    "You got greedy." Ricky sighed, knowing a fool in love when he saw one as the man hit his head into the ground.


    "I just wanted to be seen by her, not as a foot soldier but as a man, a man that could stand side by side with her." Bumpy voice cracked, his face planted in the ground while both fists balled together, tightly.


    "She was my world, and I wanted to be hers too, but I just wasn''t enough," Bumpy admitted, his voice heavy with regret. More than anything, he longed for Madame to return the affection he felt for her but sometimes, women can be cruel, especially when it comes to love.


    "No matter how much I did, how much my acclaim grew, she still looked at me the same and when I professed my love, she rejected me." Bumpy sobs grew with every word uttered, breaking down before Ricky until he was completely shattered.


    Ricky looked at the broken man lying on the floor, rubbing his neck, knowing he was either going to break Madame''s back eventually or possibly later that night.


    However, even if Ricky wanted to do away with Bumpy, he knew the man was too valuable to lose, he had the potential to be a solid subordinate. But there was always a catch: Bumpy not only hated him, but his loyalty, along with his balls, lay firmly in Madame''s hands.


    Sigh


    Ricky pinched the bridge of his nose, knowing that his evening of having his balls slapping against Madame''s chocolate skin looked to be stopped by this drunken man.


    However, Ricky''s task was only to find him, not bring him back all cleaned up for Madame St. Clair and besides, Ricky actually needed Bumpy.


    It wasn''t anything to hide since Ricky was trying to find and gather his spread out bastards.


    Before Ricky left, he asked Lucky to look into the names of the women, particularly the ones he had met in Harlem, including Ruth. Ruth was something Ricky wanted to handle personally, but he didn''t have the time to sniff out all three of them.


    "Listen, Bumpy, I didn''t come here to judge or drag you back to Madame," Ricky revealed, his voice steady, while Bumpy remained sprawled on the floor.


    "Then why are you here Slick, to rub it in my face?" Bumpy looked up, completely defeated in every regard, thinking Ricky was going to rub salt in the wound only to hear a scoff.


    "Obviously, but it''s no fun rubbing it in your face in this state and besides, what I want will give you something that you shouldn''t refuse." Ricky rummaged into his suit pocket as Bumpy scoffed, scraping his palms against the floor while looking up at him.


    "Is this some lingo for you pulling a gun at me-" Bumpy, thinking Ricky was going to threaten him, suddenly had a piece of paper thrown at him.


    His face became plain, gazing at Ricky who merely gestured for him to look as he scooped the paper up and held it out for Bumpy to see.


    "Everlean Carter, Azilee Harris, Mayola Davis-what is this Slick?" Bumpy read off the names only to give him a stupid expression.


    "There are three people I need you to find." Ricky reached into his coat pocket, throwing a wad of money at him.


    "This is expenses for tracking them down-"


    "Why the f*ck would I help you." Bumpy laughed out, forcing himself to stand on his feet as Ricky looked him dead in the eye.


    "Because you do this for me, I''ll owe you a favor." Ricky''s words rang in Bumpy''s ears and he sort of froze.


    To the average person a mere favor seemed trivial but in these guy''s world, it was everything.


    Asking for a favor was one thing but giving a favor was akin to a blank check and Ricky was serious about this.


    These three were all former residents of Harlem and Ricky had only the system description to look into it but even then, with his business about to begin and the family, he didn''t have any time to play investigator.


    "You''re kidding?" Bumpy asked, thinking this was some sort of joke but Ricky shrugged.


    "You know guys like me don''t kid about this stuff." Ricky gestured, putting his hands in his pockets before looking at Bumpy.


    "And besides, from how you''re acting to how you present yourself, are you really about to tell me that you don''t have any time to go on a wild goose chase?" Ricky genuinely asked Bumpy, raising an eyebrow as the man lowered his gaze.


    In fact, Ricky was right; Bumpy was lost, feeling like all his efforts were worthless, as though he were drifting without a clear purpose.


    "Fine." Bumpy muttered, dingdown to pick up the wad of money before looking at Ricky.


    "But if this is a trap-"


    "Oh, come on, Bumpy, we both know I don''t think you''re worth going to this extent for some ruse." Ricky laughed, walking away and tossing the insult over his shoulder as he waved, leaving Bumpy scoffing behind him.


    Looking at the names, Bumpy scrunched his eyebrows in confusion before pocketing the paper and turning his gaze back to the mirror.


    "I guess getting cleaned up wouldn''t hurt."


    15 minutes later,


    "And you didn''t bring him back!?" Madame asked in an incredulous tone, looking at Ricky as he casually gazed at his watch.


    "You asked me to find him, I did-"


    "That''s not what I was asking-"


    Sigh


    "Listen, Madame, he obviously doesn''t want to talk to you." Ricky sighed heavily, cutting her off as she stiffened at his words, her eyes darting to the side.


    "But he''s alright. For the time I got his mind off of the devastating state, but there''s something that needs to be addressed right now." Ricky slowly walked up to her, placing a hand on her shoulders as she looked up at him.


    "Is that what you''re going to wear, considering I have a reservation at a critically acclaimed restaurant?" Ricky slowly smiled, watching Madame scoff before walking to the side.


    However, when she walked to the edge of the desk, she slowly stopped, the weight of the entire debacle, along with the pressure from her job, starting to take its toll.


    "You know what, screw it." Madame, who was going to put it off until sometime next week, suddenly turned to Ricky.


    "Let''s go." Madame reached out her hand to the surprised but smiling Ricky, who graciously took it, leading her out.


    "And before you ask, the dress I want to wear is all alone in some random dress shop." Madame side-eyed Ricky, who laughed, remembering he promised he would take her shopping.


    "Oh Madame, how I''ve missed you." Meanwhile at the lower side of Queens,


    Inside the Steffield Steel factory, the same one that had persevered through the Great Depression, its machinery still humming as it had during the darkest times, there was a stark contrast between those who worked within its walls and the beggars who loitered just beyond.


    The Great Depression''s grip was far from gone, though its presence was often downplayed in Ricky''s world. For the blue-collar workers, however, it was a constant weight they carried, felt in the heavy air of the factory and the weariness etched into their faces.


    The pressure to provide had never been more intense as each day''s wages were the only thing standing between these men and their families going hungry. Despite the slow recovery of the nation, for these workers, the struggle to make ends meet remained as real as ever, their survival tied to every turn of the factory''s wheel.


    One of these blue-collar workers, James, was currently operating a massive, roaring furnace at the heart of the Steffield Steel factory. Sweat beaded on his brow as the heat from the molten metal radiated around him as his calloused hands gripped the heavy levers, guiding the flow of molten steel with practiced precision. The furnace crackled and hissed, the fiery orange glow casting an eerie light on his face as he carefully adjusted the valve, ensuring the metal poured into the mold without spilling over.


    His movements were fluid, mechanical even, as he shifted his weight from one foot to the other, his worn boots scuffing against the steel floor. Sparks flew in all directions, igniting the darkened room, but James didn''t flinch as he had become numb to the dangers around him. Every muscle in his body ached from the long hours with such little wages, but he pushed through, knowing that the job needed to be done. "Aye James, take a fiver, I''ll cover." James'' father, Herold, who had been working in this factory before working with his father before that.


    They were three generations of Steffield Steelworkers and the grueling work showed when Herold hand gripped the lever, his left hand missing three fingers and his right hand covered in scars.


    "Thanks dad, I''ll go drain the snake, be back in a sec." James joked, hurriedly walking towards the bathroom only to see a line forming as he scoffed.


    Looking around, James exited through the door and nudged himself into the wedges of a fence to let out the bulking amount of urine that had been held for the last three hours.


    "So it''s true, about the factory?"


    Right as James was about to release the gates, his ear twitched, halting his piss while his eyes peaked through a small peephole to see two cleaned and dressed men.


    If they didn''t have black smudges littering their bodies, then it only meant that they were upper management that surveyed their back breaking work while they reaped all the benefits.


    "Yep, looks like Steffields completely over this place, gonna shut down the factory and move it to Pittsburgh or some back watered place." The other guy, with gelled and neat hair, informed his associate who sighed.


    "What about, you know, our jobs-"


    "Oh come on, we''re upper management." The other guy chuckled, inhaling his cigarette and blowing the smoke into the air.


    "We''re gonna be fine, but the grunts." The other guy flicked his cigarette to the ground.


    "Well, that''s a different story." The other guy flicked his head, walking in front as the man followed along.


    "Will there be layoffs-"


    "Ha!" The other guy laughed, walking towards the corner as James'' eyes shook violently at this fact.


    "It''s not gonna be layoffs, but a complete extermination." The other guy joked as if their livelihoods meant nothing, making James simply stand there for a long time.


    Eventually, he arrived at his stop as Herold gave him a worried expression, wanting to ask something but seeing it had to wait.


    "James, come on and give me a hand!"


    James unfortunately couldn''t even harpe on this devastating fact, having to actually go back to his grueling work for the next three hours.


    Only at the end of the work day, when everyone was walking back to their homes in a massive flocking, did Herold pull him to the side.


    "James, what''s the matter?" Herold asked, scrunching his brows since James had been out of it for the entire time that he had come back.


    "They-"


    James wanted to say everything, wanted to spill out all the worries and frustrations weighing on him, but when the words came to the surface, they stuck in his throat. Standing before his father, who had worked beneath his grandfather in the mill for as long as James could remember, he found himself unable to break the cycle with a few simple words.


    He couldn''t find the courage to speak, to shatter the tradition that had been passed down through generations, as though the very act of speaking might unravel everything they had built.


    "I-I need to take sh*t." James immediately changed the subject, Herold caught off guard before bursting out into a loud barrage of laughter.


    "Well, alright then."


    Through the entire night, James seemed sort of out of it while his large family surrounded him at the dinner table.


    Times were tough and right now, he and his father were living along with their families in this small cramped house.


    But instead of despair, the dinner table was filled with laughs and joyful expressions as these folks made the most of what they had, instead of harping on what they didn''t.


    James sat by the side, aimlessly eating his mashed potatoes while his family rambled on about the news surrounding them.


    "Hey did you hear the news up in Staten Island?" Herold''s wife asked them all, having a juicy piece of gossip she wanted to share.


    "Evidently that mutant Ricky Luciano is opening a business, partnering with some immigrants to form a production company." Herold''s wife continued, her words immediately making James'' ear twitch.


    "Oh my, I hear about that too!" James'' own wife covered her mouth next to him, looking at her with widened eyes.


    "I heard that it''s going to bring in a lot of jobs-"


    "How many jobs?!" James suddenly interrupted, standing up amidst the table and immediately standing up as everyone gave him a weird look.


    "I-I don''t know, but they say there looking at places for a factory-"


    "Factory!?" James leaned in, his expression serious as it sort of scared his own mother who looked at Herold, showing a clear frown.


    "Boy, don''t talk to your mother like she''s some criminal you''re interrogating," Herold warned, his voice sharp. But James ignored him, his gaze drifting to the side, avoiding his father''s eyes as the tension in the room thickened.


    ''Yeah, Ricky''s doing fine, but now he goes by Ricky Luciano.'' The words of an old friend, one he had accidentally run into a while back, reverberated in his mind as James suddenly bolted towards the door, his pulse racing.


    "James? JAMES!" Herold stood up, yelling after James who abruptly grabbed his coat and ran off, leaving his family high and dry without an explanation, making his grandfather scoff.


    "Kids these days."


    At a low-end mechanic shop, James, the familiar steel worker, slowly approached, hat in hand, his steps heavy with hesitation. He made his way toward a car with someone working beneath it, only the legs visible from under the chassis. Tap


    Tap


    "Just a minute!" The man''s voice came from under the car, before he swerved from under the car with black splotches on him with a smile.


    "Names Bucky Barnes, how can I help ya, sir?" Author''s Note: Shout out to my boy Tanaka from Haiykuu, he goated fr.


    Author''s Note2: I''ve seen your commetns, but I''m hungover and I''ll reply late

 Chapter 146 - 141: A Date With Madame St. Clair

    Chapter 146: Chapter 141: A Date With Madame St. Clair


    "Names Bucky Barnes, how can I help ya?" Bucky had a business smile on him, hopping onto his feet and holding out his hand that wasn''t that dirty as James took it.


    A week or two ago, a couple of James''s friends from the factory, who used to play pick-up baseball back in the day with him, ran into Bucky.


    They weren''t exactly close anymore, especially after that huge scuffle caused Bucky to gradually stop playing baseball with them, leading them to drift apart.


    However, Bucky and Ricky had been close while growing up, having lived in the same orphanage which was why James and the older kids looked after them.


    "Hey Bucky, I don''t know if you remember me, but we used to play ball back in the day, and we''d get scuffed up by kids from other neighborhoods," James said with a smile as Bucky showed a look of surprise before taking a moment to carefully study his features before his eyebrows raised.


    "James, James ''Fastball'' Robins!" Bucky''s business smile transformed into an excited grin as he patted James''s shoulder and pulled him into a hug.


    "It''s been so long, buddy! I haven''t seen you in ages. You know, a friend of yours told me you went to work at the steel mill." Bucky said, patting James on the back as he responded with a sad chuckle.


    "Bucky-"


    "Man, what was that girl''s name again-"


    Snap


    "I remember you were seeing a girl back then-Milly, right?" Bucky wondered, snapping his fingers as the memory clicked as he led James over to a nearby table inside, where they both sat down.


    "Tilly, and she''s great. Actually, we''re expecting a month from now," James smiled, looking down while fiddling with his hands.


    "That''s great buddy, I''m so happy for you man." Bucky chuckled, nudging James before knocking on the table for good luck.


    "As a congratulations present, any of your car problems are on the house, on me," Bucky said, patting his chest as James chuckled at the familiar forwardness he remembered from him.


    Even from back then, he recalled Bucky as the guy who always had your back and treated his friends better than their weight in gold.


    "Bucky-"


    "No, no, no, no, I insist James, you were good to me Steve and Ricky back then-"


    "Actually, Bucky, I didn''t come here for car troubles or to catch up," James said, his hands gripping his hat tighter as Bucky looked surprised.


    "I need help, Bucky." James felt ashamed, coming out of nowhere and asking for help towards Bucky which was why he ducked his head.


    "Is it a favor or some money, cause I don''t got a lot on me but I can muster up a few bucks if you''re really in need-"


    "It''s about the steel mill, and I think the Steffield factory here, and even the ones in the tri-state area, are closing down and moving to Ohio," James revealed, a staggering fact that took Bucky by surprise before his fist slammed into the table.


    "Wha-"


    "They can''t do that!" Bucky yelled furiously, interrupting his own sentence, his anger flaring as he thought of all his buddies from the orphanage, who had gone to work at the Steffield steel mill.


    "Bethlehem Steel just cut back at the shipyard and now Steffield wants to bolt, what the hell!" Bucky was furious, his fist balling tightly as his knuckles whitened.


    In 1936, steel manufacturing was a vital industry in New York, with companies like Bethlehem Steel, Steffield Steel, and U.S. Steel operating factories and shipyards in Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the Bronx.


    The city''s strategic location along with its accessibility to raw materials, and transportation network made it a key hub for steel production, fueling sectors like construction, shipbuilding, and especially railroads.


    However, by the late 1930s, many steel companies began moving their operations out of New York.


    A lot of it actually indirectly had to do with Lucky and his union, the Teamsters, as the rising labor costs, frequent strikes, and the city''s limited space for expansion made it difficult to maintain profitability.


    At the same time, the Great Depression took a toll, and older mills became less economically viable.


    Companies sought cheaper land and labor in the Midwest and South, where new plants could be built more efficiently.


    Advances in steel production technology, along with government incentives for relocation to spread out these condensed industries, further encouraged this shift.


    As factories closed and jobs were cut, the city''s steel industry began to decline, paving the way for New York''s transformation into a financial and commercial center in the post-war years.


    While the shift was beneficial for the economy as a whole, it was the blue-collar workers in New York who suffered the most.


    "Guys like us are just starting to get back on our feet, and they''re pulling the rug out from under us, who the hell do they think they are!" Bucky couldn''t help but get even more riled up by his own words.


    "That''s like-" Bucky didn''t have a number off the top of his head, halting his words only for James to cast his gaze downwards.


    "20,000 workers," James replied, his words swallowing Bucky''s original number with the sheer magnitude of it.


    "James I-I had no idea-"


    "Bucky, I really, really need a favor," James said, ducking his head as Bucky stared at him, astonished, and held up his hands.


    "James, I-I''m really out of my element with this stuff, but I can look around for you if it''s a job you need. Just ask, and I''ll do whatever I can." Bucky''s voice was genuine, his eyes softening as he remembered how much blood James had spilled to look out for them back then.


    "I need to get in touch with Ricky." James shamelessly asked, his words immediately catching Bucky off guard who widened his eyes.


    "Woah James-"


    "Just listen to me, Bucky, please." James sank to his knees before Bucky, who flinched, immediately reaching down to help him up.


    "James-"


    "PLEASE!" James slammed his head into the floor, and Bucky quickly yanked him up, getting him back on his feet.


    "Alright, alright man, I''ll hear you out!" Bucky quickly yelled, trying to stop him from hurting himself and only after the fact did James halt his actions.


    "But you''ve got it wrong, I was close with Ricky, but after he left, we haven''t spoken much since, not at all." Bucky revealed, a faint smile tugging at his lips as he glanced down at the ground.


    "Listen, Bucky, there''s a rumor floating around Staten Island that a production company is forming." James revealed, lifting his gaze to meet Bucky''s concerned expression.


    "Huh, since when?" Bucky asked, oblivious to most gossip since he was always tucked away under a car.


    "I don''t know much, because I just heard about it today, but at the center of those rumors and the guy behind that forming company is Ricky!" James pitched to Bucky, who immediately knew where this was heading.


    "Oh James-"


    "Just think, Bucky, if we can get Ricky to buy the mill, all those workers won''t be out of a job," James said, watching as Bucky rubbed his face and shook his head in confusion.


    "I''m not much of a businessman, but how''s a steel mill gonna help a production company?" Bucky pointed out the obvious, leaving James ready to retort, but the words caught in his throat.


    "I know it''s a stretch, but if we can just get this to Ricky, get it through the door, instead of sitting around doing nothing," James pleaded, as Bucky''s head collapsed into his hands.


    "Please Bucky, I''m begging you." James shook Bucky, knowing it was shameless for him to come to him but this was the only thing he could think of.


    "This isn''t just for me, but for the average joes like us, please," James implored, looking at Bucky, knowing his family had been working at the steel mills in New York for three generations.


    James and his family had only ever known life at the steel mill and although hard times had scraped them, they always managed to pull through.


    Now, with the world in turmoil and uncertainty looming over America, the thought of losing his job left James grasping at straws as he had no idea how he would take care of his family, let alone secure their future.


    "A-Alright, but I can''t even promise he''d want to see me-"


    "Thank you, Bucky, f*cking thank you man!" James rushed to hug Bucky, who sighed and patted his back.


    SIgh


    "Don''t thank me yet," Bucky sighed heavily, looking at James, who nodded, excitement flickering in his eyes.


    But then, realizing he had left his family high and dry, James immediately turned and ran back to his house.


    James left Bucky standing there, everything swirling in his mind, with one thought dominating their entire conversation.


    "Does he even remember me?"


    Meanwhile at a High End Dress Shop,


    "So, who is Madame St. Clair?" Ricky asked, sipping a glass of champagne as he leaned back in his chair admiring the view.


    Watching with a sleazy smile at Madame St. Clair swayed gently in a dress, her own gaze admiring her reflection in the mirror.


    Ricky''s words weren''t just for show. He had promised a shopping spree, a five-star dinner, and hoped to top it all off in a hotel. But for now, they were at the first step.


    In the dress shop Ricky had once taken Alina to for new dresses, the entire place had been cleared out for their VIP client, with the exception of the staff, who were there to tend to every want and need.


    This was a designated "White Only" dress shop, a reminder of the still-active Jim Crow laws that were rampant at the time.


    But when the staff saw Ricky, his gun in plain view and that look in his eyes that made it clear he wouldn''t hesitate to shoot, they made a quick, quiet exception.


    "I mean, before I came around, you became a Harlem legend by denouncing corrupt policemen and the mafia," Ricky flattered her, spitting out secondhand words he had heard as Madame saw right through it, a scoff escaping her as she side-eyed him.


    "What? I''m just curious about you, can you blame me?" Ricky asked, sipping from his glass as Madame glanced back at the mirror, her expression unreadable.


    "So, who are you Madame St. Clair or how did you become Madame St. Clair?" Ricky, wanting to just lure her out of that stone cold businesswoman demeanor she always had to put around herself, before getting to that soft and probably incredibly moist interior.


    "Oh, come on, you know everything about me, at least give me a little?" Ricky chuckled, leaning his head on his hand and gazing at her as Madame side-eyed him briefly before turning back to the mirror, her expression unchanged.


    "It''ll cost you a couple more dresses-and you''re staring at my ass." Madame St. Clair turned her head, only to see Ricky''s eyes locked on her ass while still shamelessly staring at it.


    "I am an incorrigible pun hound, after all." Ricky joked, turning his gaze upwards at Madame St. Clair, who crossed her arms with a raised eyebrow.


    "But I do want to know more about you, since all I know is your stint with the numbers game before you came to work for my pops," Ricky said, giving her the floor before Madame St. Clair simply stared at him for a moment before beckoning over a couple more dresses, her silence a clear indication she wasn''t ready to reveal much.


    "Long or short version?" Madame St. Clair asked, knowing that if he was going to fork up the money then she should at least consider his preference.


    "Long." Ricky smiled, Madame St. Clair wanted to simply scoff but she couldn''t help but let out a low simmer chuckle, which even annoyed her to some extent.


    "I guess before I gained my monocure, I was simply known as Stephanie St.Clair." Madame St. Clair revealed, gazing at her reflection before going to change into another dress and much to his disappointment, it wouldn''t be in front of him.


    "A little girl, born to a single mother whose husband ran out on her when she was six months pregnant," Madame St. Clair finally opened up, her voice quieter as she spoke, seemingly becoming lost in her own story that no one really ever asked for.


    "I was born into the west indies to my beloved mother Felicienne-"


    Madame Narration:


    I never had any father in my life, one to guide me, look after me, and protect me, I had my mother to do that in his stead.


    She was a sweet woman, an innocent woman,someone who believed in the good of everyone, and was left suffering for it.


    Even with a baby at her lonesome side, she did everything for me, and I can''t help but adore her for it.


    Even when we barely had anything, she mustered up enough money to get me into an actual school, but the education was short-lived.


    I was just twelve when my mother fell ill, and like a good daughter, I left school to care for her.


    But fate is as cruel as the people who had used her and she passed away, after that I scraped together what little I had and left Martinique for Montreal.


    I was trafficked under the Caribbean Domestic Scheme, but they always blew it out of proportion.


    The government always glorified it, but let''s not pretend it was anything glamorous, scrubbing floors and taking orders for dirt pay wasn''t exactly a dream come true.


    By 1912, I landed in New York, fresh from Montreal with a head full of determination and enough English to get by, thanks to the long voyage and that miserable quarantine.


    I thought that my arrival wouldn''t be welcomed but Harlem embraced me, or so I thought, until I got tangled up with this charmer named Duke.


    He thought he could pimp me out like I was some common girl and well, the universe had other plans for him.


    Duke met his end in a gang scuffle, and I took that as my cue to upgrade my life.


    I think that''s where I really wanted something more for myself, something real, real notoriety.


    Then came Ed, sweet Ed or so he seemed, and together, we dabbled in selling controlled substances, nothing legal, mind you, but lucrative.


    Within months, I had thirty thousand dollars in my pocket, and that''s when I told Ed I was done with him.


    He was a sweetheart and always did whatever he could for me, which is why I felt bad using him for my ambition.


    But did he take it gracefully?


    Of course not, he tried to strangle me, Me.


    As if I was some shrinking violet and all it took was one good push, and he met the corner of a table, dead.


    But, I don''t regret it as it was self-defense, and anyone who thinks otherwise can take it up with the afterlife.


    After that, I hired my own men since I didn''t need or want anyone else pulling my strings.


    I bribed the right cops, kept my business clean, and by 1917, I had invested ten thousand dollars into Harlem''s burgeoning numbers game.


    Where I turned those dice and dreams into an empire before selling it off to your pops.


    Narration END:


    "But it was tough for a single Black emigrant woman to make a name for herself on the streets, even tougher when you actually believe in what you''re fighting for," Madame narrated, her gaze lingering on her reflection in the mirror before she walked to the side to try on another dress.


    "Being independent means that you aren''t and cannot be controlled, by anyone for any means." Madame gave her own advice, knowing that she wasn''t independent anymore after working with Lucky.


    "Does this mean that Madame St. Clair doesn''t need no man?" Ricky joked, his eyes glinting with amusement.


    Madame laughed at those words that people always throw at her, stepping out of the changing room in a completely different dress, her confidence evident as she twirled slightly, letting the fabric flow.


    "It''s not like that, Ricky. In fact, I value men just as much as I would any woman," Madame smiled at herself, swaying her dress side to side before picking up a few hats to try on.


    "There is nothing more noble than a working man, putting in countless hours, earning mere pennies, and using almost all of it for their families," Madame said thoughtfully, then turned toward Ricky, who held up ten fingers with a grin as she smiled and nodded to the side as the attendant began tallying the total.


    "You say that but from what I heard you really get in guys face-"


    "Just cause they got a housewife at home doesn''t mean they can treat me like one, if you talk down to me like I''m supposed to be making you a sandwich when I don''t know you, I''m going to get in your face." Madame waved her finger at Ricky, his next joke stopping before she turned back to the mirror.


    "But just because I met a couple of assholes, doesn''t mean I can bring myself to hate men in general since I''ve met far more b*tches." Madame raised an eyebrow at her own words, knowing nothing colder than a passive aggressive dish served cold by her so-called woman-in-arms.


    "I''ve seen fathers and husbands sacrifice their bodies, themselves, to do anything they can for the ones they love." Madame explained from her view, dissuading any of the misconceptions about her and simply showing her reasoning.


    "Maybe it''s why I appreciate seeing it more, since I never got one for myself," Madame spoke suddenly, her voice tinged with a rare sincerity and Ricky caught the shift in her tone before she slipped on another hat, her usual poise returning.


    "But the same goes true for any woman, any housewife." Madame clarified, showing there were two sides to any coin.


    "When a man strains themselves physically, it is the woman who strains themselves mentally." Madame explained, knowing that although she can''t understand a man working ten hours in a factory, none of those men don''t understand what it''s like to take care of a demonic hellspawn that people call babies.


    "They take care of the children, make sure they''re well-fed, and nurse them until they can leave the nest. I admire that," Madame revealed, her tone softening as she spoke.


    It was clear she didn''t look down on women who chose to be housewives, she respected it.


    Just because she hadn''t taken that path herself didn''t mean she didn''t understand how noble it was.


    "But is it wrong that I wanted to be more, to do more?" Madame seemingly asked Ricky through her reflection, her eyes searching his as he leaned his head on his hand, quietly considering her question.


    "No, if anything, I think it makes you even more sexy," Ricky said with a sleazy grin, prompting a small chuckle from Madame as she rolled her eyes, amused but unbothered.


    "You think I''m a hypocrite, right?" Madame asked, her eyes glinting with curiosity as Ricky laughed, shrugging his shoulders as he held out his glass for the attendant to fill.


    "There''s no one here more of a hypocrite than me," Ricky voiced, a hint of honesty creeping into his tone.


    "And besides, real change is only made with compromises." Ricky said with a small smile slowly bloomed back onto his face, as if he were reassuring her more than anyone else.


    "I mean, unless you''re me, so I guess I''m the exception," Ricky said, laughing as Madame walked back into the dressing room, shaking her head at his cocky grin.


    "Thanks, Ricky," Madame said sarcastically, her voice dripping with playful disdain but that only made Ricky laugh harder, clearly enjoying the exchange.


    "Don''t think I don''t hear the words on the street, how they talk about how I sold out to a white man-"


    "Oh, come on, f*ck them. You did as much as you could by yourself, and it isn''t wrong to sell out for what you think was right," Ricky said, his words a bit jumbled but somehow resonating with Madame and despite the confusion, she found something in his blunt honesty that struck a chord.


    Madame St. Clair had changed, but whether that change was good or bad depended on who was looking.


    She had built herself from the ground up, an independent figure who''d worked her fingers to the bone to create an empire that stretched across all of Harlem.


    In every corner of the underworld, her hands had dipped, and double-dipped, into every conceivable business, carving her influence deep into the city''s veins.


    She had done everything with nothing, battling against the mafia and corrupt politicians/officers who tried to strip her of it all.


    Yet, despite everything she fought for and everything she built, it all seemed to lose meaning when she cashed out her numbers game to the Luciano family, securing a 2% stake in the Luciano Legacy Bank.


    That deal made her the richest Black woman in America, but in the end, it felt like a hollow victory.


    No one thought lesser of her, especially since her actions had empowered Black families to finally access banking services and receive loans.


    But deep down, she couldn''t shake the feeling that everything she had done had been for nothing.


    Even as she stood atop this pillar, looking down on all those who had tried to tear her down, she felt an overwhelming sense of loneliness as the higher she climbed, the farther she felt from everything that truly mattered.


    "You did it, Madame St. Clair, you did what most women, and even men, could dream of, so why get down on yourself?" Ricky genuinely asked, thinking she should be rubbing this victory in others'' faces instead of hatling her words.


    But the silence was deafening, and it only made him continue, feeling the champagne really start to flow as he was trying really hard to get into her pants, spewing out whatever he could to get one or two points on the favorability meter he would soon check.


    "And don''t get me wrong, I''m the same cause there are so many times I just think ''Why didn''t I do this'' or ''Man, I could''ve done that''." Ricky waved the champagne glass with his internal monologue, the alcohol splashing onto the rug but he was obvious to the wincing of the staff.


    "But it''s like Lucky always says: ''Don''t harp on the should''ve, would''ve, or could''ve, ''cause nothing about the past changes. It''s how you should, would, and could do it differently in the future.''" Ricky spoke of one of Lucky''s lessons, and Madame peeked out of the dressing room with a smile.


    "You really look up to your pops, don''t you?" Madame''s lips tugged into a small smile, finding it cute how he tried to cheer her up.


    "I''ll always respect and listen to my pops, he brought me out of the gutter and did everything he could for the useless trash that was me." Ricky gestured to himself, owing everything to Lucky and never afraid to admit it.


    "I think it''s only right that I do right by him, by his name." Ricky was really sincere at that moment, his words and tone catching Madame off guard before she walked out with another dress.


    "He is a good man, stubborn, but good." Madame smiled before giving Ricky a pose, seemingly letting down those cold walls for a little while.


    "What do you think?" Madame asked, enjoying the silk fabric hugging her chocolate skin as Ricky whistled blatantly at her figure.


    "Gorgeous."


    20 minutes later,


    "This way, Sir and Madame," the waiter at the promised five-star restaurant guided them, as Madame held onto Ricky''s arm, her gorgeous dress flowing gracefully with every step.


    "Alright, my turn, what happened to you?" Madame asked, having her seat pulled out by Ricky as she asked, and he chuckled.


    "It seems to be the topic on everyone''s mind, right?" Ricky asked back, taking his seat across from her while reaching for a loaf of complimentary bread.


    "I mean, how could it not? You leave for three years, and suddenly you''re a cardinal, then you''re fighting the government, and finally the boss of New York? I think it warrants some sort of question." Madame leaned in, looking at Ricky who returned her gesture, staring right into her eyes.


    "Then ask away." Ricky''s charming eyes seemingly stirred something Madame, her movements masking it as she took a sip of water before pushing that feeling down.


    "What was it that made you decide enough is enough? What made you really want to take control?" Madame asked, her voice laced with curiosity while staring dagger at him.


    It was the question that had been bugging her for a while since from her perspective, when Ricky had left, it seemed like nothing could have brought him back on track.


    He''d shown glimpses of potential, but one or two setbacks usually sent him spiraling off the deep end and yet now, it was like the old struggles barely even registered with him anymore.


    "That''s-hmmmm, let me think about that." Ricky paused, the weight of the question hitting him harder than expected as he tapped his finger on the table, his gaze drifting as he mulled over the answer and finally, he nodded, finding the words he wanted to use to explain it.


    "Alright, I usually tell people that I had this out-of-body realization about my past and confronted it, but the deciding factor was really afterwards that made me become who I am now." Ricky revealed, spreading butter on the complimentary bread before taking a bite.


    "There was this guy, a drunkard named Abraham who was crippled because of his past, his failures." Ricky looked down at his glass, knowing that the only way to get into Madame''s pants was through sincerity.


    "It was like whenever I looked at him, I saw myself in ten or twenty or even thirty years." Ricky chuckled, looking down at his loaf of bread before looking back at her.


    "And he said something to me, before it all, when I was on the ship sailing away from my problems like I usually did." Ricky revealed, telling Madame the truth that stirred that domino effect that changed him to the man he was sitting before him.


    "God, I was just a f*cking wreck and he asked me ''What''s your problem?''." Ricky retold the story, remembering Abraham on that boat, drinking the flask he had in his suit coat pocket as of right now.


    "And I remember this because I gave him the sort of smug answer I usually give and I said, ''I''m an alcoholic and an addict,'' and I''ll never forget how he laughed in my face," Ricky joked, his tone laced with a bitter sort of humor as he looked down, his eyes distant as if the memory had taken root inside him.


    "Then he looked at me, with this stupid-ass grin, and said, ''No kid, that''s how you''ve been treating your problem,'' and after that, it really just left me kinda speechless."" Ricky admitted, holding up his hand as if the words were still hanging heavy in the air.


    Madame was caught off guard by the sincerity in his voice, the way he''d let the walls drop, showing something more vulnerable than she''d ever seen before.


    It was rare, seeing someone like Ricky, someone who never took anything seriously, actually open up to her, and it left her speechless for a moment too.


    "Then I had that out-of-body realization about my past, but afterward, when I was drowning in my own self-loathing, I knew I had to find a way to fill this hole in me." Ricky chewed the bread slowly, his gaze distant as he reflected on the moments that had led him here.


    "I understood that I needed to fill that aching void with something, literally anything or I would probably end up killing myself over some dumb sh*t." Ricky injected some humor into his sincerely before remembering Abraham again.


    "What was he like, Abraham I mean?" Madame smiled, resting her head on her hand and watching Ricky who reached for another loaf of bread.


    "He was just someone who drifted through life, always trying to make up for a past that was already set, trying to fix things that were long gone," Ricky explained, his tone heavy with the memory.


    "Abraham always warned me against clinging to the past, about ending up like him, and sort of pushed me to focus on what''s ahead instead of getting stuck in what was already behind me." Ricky internalized his relationship with Abraham, slathering the butter on the new piece of bread since he was actually starving.


    "And then he died and it made me stop thinking about the things I had lost, but all the things I stood to lose if I continued the way I was." Ricky said, taking a bite of his bread before wiping his hands against each other to get the crumbs off.


    "I really took everything I had for granted, and it blows that I didn''t do anything when I was here before, but that don''t mean it''s gonna be the same right now," Ricky pointed at the tablecloth, Madame handing it to him as he wiped his mouth while she still sat there with a smile.


    "Even now, there are things I want to do better, but instead of lamenting what I could''ve done, I''m going to improve on what I can do," Ricky gestured to Madame, who had her glass of wine filled by the waiter who handed them their menus.


    "Wow, look at you," Madame''s tone was slightly raised, a hint of admiration in her voice as she looked at Ricky, clearly thinking more highly of him after everything he''d shared.


    "Left a boy, came back a man. I''m really impressed," Madame said, swirling her wine as she fixed him with an intrigued gaze.


    "Well, how else was I supposed to sweep you off your feet?" Ricky said cheekily, only to receive an actual laugh from Madame.


    "I guess it''ll be different this time with your manly arms," Madame joked, and Ricky laughed, but their moment was interrupted as a waiter walked over to their table.


    "I''ll be your personal waiter for this evening. If you need anything, just mention it, and I will attend to your every need," the waiter said, his voice polished but his gaze briefly drifting to Madame before flicking to the sign indicating the white-only section.


    "Just get us all the expensive and fancy stuff you have, don''t skimp on the caviar or I''ll break your knees," Ricky said, waving the menu dismissively at the attendant as the waiter gulped, clearly nervous, before he quickly shifted his gaze to Madame for any sign of objection.


    "You okay with that?" Ricky asked with a smile and Madame simply laughed, loosening up with the wine flowing.


    "Who wouldn''t be?"


    The conversation that continued onwards was light, small banter with nothing too deep, as lavish dishes, one after another, were served around their table.


    Yet, despite the stream of food, their eyes remained drawn to each other, sharing subtle glances and moments of connection.


    An hour passed, almost unnoticed, as the ambiance of the restaurant seemed to fade into the background.


    "You''re kidding?!" Madame asked, breaking her crab leg with a shocked face, her eyes wide with disbelief as she leaned in slightly, clearly intrigued by what Ricky had just said.


    "Swear, I really went down to Sicily and beat the crap out of the families who killed my grandpops," Ricky shrugged, his tone casual as if it were just another day as Madame, knowing the stories, hadn''t expected him to claim something so monstrous, thinking it was just another exaggeration.


    But the sincerity in his eyes made her wonder if there was more truth to his words than she had realized.


    "Then the monsters they always talk about-"


    "Ghouls, you can think of them like vampire henchmen," Ricky waved his hand dismissively, as if it were the simplest thing in the world while Madame dipped the crab leg into her truffle butter.


    It wasn''t all that surprising, given that after the entire incident with Bumpy and Xarus, Madame had slowly become integrated into the supernatural world, but she was still a beginner.


    She had heard stories from the families, how the monsters had driven them out, but she always thought it was just a metaphor, just some exaggerated play on words, not real monsters.


    Yet, now, hearing Ricky speak with such certainty, she couldn''t help but wonder if she had been naive.


    "That''s where I met one of my pals, Asterion." Ricky continued only for Madame to suddenly know that name from one of her hobbies, holding up her hand.


    "You''re kidding, do not tell me you know the Minotaur from Greek mythology?" Madame let out a baffled laugh, her words catching Ricky off guard as she was the first person he knew who actually recognized the name.


    "You know about Greek mythology?" Ricky asked, astonished, leaning onto the table as Madame let off a prideful shrug.


    "Religion folklore is my hobby," Madame flaunted, flicking her hair as Ricky laughed but shrugged.


    "Yeah, I don''t want to brag, but I will, I''m pals with the forefather of all Minotaurs," Ricky shrugged, clearly bragging, as Madame laughed even harder.


    "So let me guess, he''s a demonized sweetheart?" Madame wondered, knowing that anyone portrayed as a villain in Greek mythology, especially in a religion that worships the horrid acts of their gods, is either worse than they seem or actually good.


    "He is actually a really good guy, and if you ever get the chance, he''d love to explore Harlem with you. You could even talk his ear off, guys really wise and stuff like that." Ricky leaned on his hand, gazing at the woman in front of him, intrigued by what defined her.


    "Well I''d love to show such an important figure in folklore about all the wonders Harlem has to offer." Madame genuinely said, really interested in showing something she thought was a myth around.


    "What are you staring at?" Madame laughed, sipping on her champagne, as Ricky''s sly smile was present, his eyes locked deeply into hers.


    "You just keep me wanting to know more about you, all about you," Ricky charmingly said, his tone smooth as he hinted, and Madame chuckled in response.


    "Don''t all men-"


    "But have you ever met a man like me before? Be honest," Ricky sensually whispered, his hand sliding over and gently rubbing his finger on her palm.


    "No, I have never met someone like you," Madame said, her words leaving space for interpretation, but to Ricky, it didn''t matter how they were meant.


    "Why did you even give me a chance? Was it because of the bank, or because you felt like you owed me?" Ricky asked sweetly, his gaze fixed on her and Madame shook her head, then downed the rest of her champagne, the glass meeting the table with a soft click.


    "Because I don''t go out with boys, I go out with men." Madame''s words were clear and concise.


    Before, Ricky was just some self-loathing boy in her eyes, but now he was a sleazy, cheesy man, and she wasn''t sure which one was better or worse.


    "I knew it, you''re in love with me." Ricky leaned back, joking, as Madame hollered out a laugh.


    "What a conclusion you''ve brought yourself to." Madame couldn''t stop laughing, watching Ricky shrug nonchalantly.


    "But let''s be real, is there any man that can top me, in New York?" Ricky asked, purposely emphasizing New York, knowing full well that, at this moment, he held the city''s power in his hands.


    "Oh, I can top you," Madame whispered, the alcohol loosening her lips as Ricky burst into laughter.


    "Oh, I wish you would," Ricky leaned in, his words low and teasing as Madame followed his lead, the space between them shrinking until their breaths mingled.


    Just as she was about to close her eyes, ready to let the moment take over, she saw Ricky''s smile widen mischievously.


    "But you know what would be even better?" Ricky suddenly pulled back, leaving Madame high and dry as her eyes shot open, and she let out a cynical chuckle, knowing he baited her on purpose.


    "You motherf*cker-"


    "Yes, Mr. Luciano." The attendant appeared, interrupting Madame about to cuss Ricky out for skimping on her sugar.


    "Here, the rest is your tip." Ricky slammed a wad of crumpled bills into the attendant''s chest, shaking the cash with a grin as the man awkwardly looked at the stack as he then stood up, extending his arm to Madame with a confident smirk.


    "My lady~" Ricky chuckled madly, watching Madame wipe her mouth with a cynical smile before she slid her arm through his, allowing him to guide her out of the restaurant.


    "You think you''re so slick, don''t you?" Madame asked, her tone teasing yet challenging, aware of his game but eager to see if she could outwit him.


    "I mean, come on, Madame, where do you think I got the name?" Ricky grinned, pulling her out of the restaurant.


    Their footsteps echoed as they stepped onto the walkway, making their way toward Central Park under the dim glow of the streetlights.


    It was beautiful, with the lamp posts casting a soft glow along the walkway, while the entire park seemed to shimmer under the vast blanket of stars above as the gentle rustling of leaves added a quiet melody to the serene atmosphere.


    "That was payback when you left, when I leaned in not for a kiss but for the door, wasn''t it?" Madame asked, her eyes narrowing as she studied the clever grin on Ricky''s face as he just shrugged, unbothered by the accusation.


    "What? I''m not that petty," Ricky said, his words insisting innocence, but his tone betrayed him, making it clear Madame''s accusations hit their mark.


    Sigh


    "Oh Ricky, I guess some things never change," Madame teased, tapping his chest as they continued walking, still linked arm in arm.


    "But I am proud of you, but at the same time, I pity you," Madame''s words trailed off, leaving Ricky immediately puzzled.


    "For what, the payback thing?"


    "No, for being a man," Madame clarified, her gaze drifting up to the stars and RIcky sort of tilted his head, being pitied for a lot of things but never for being a guy since to him it was pretty awesome.


    "Is it because of how manly I am and how I''m currently ruining all other men for you?" Ricky asked, clearly joking but his words had some truth to it, as if he was confident he would ruin other guys for her after their encounter.


    "I just think that it''s sad that boys get told their whole lives to be a man. Sometimes it''s general advice, but more often than not, it''s moments," Madame mused, her voice thoughtful as the alcohol spurred on these words.


    "Moments when you''re told you can''t be a man if you cry, if you show weakness, if you fail, if you show self-pity." Madame paused, looking over at Ricky.


    "It''ll be just a little moment; a man could be everything he''s supposed to be, but the second he cries, he''s emasculated." Madame sighed, her gaze drifting upward while kicking a pebble.


    "I think that''s sad. And I want to say it will never change, but that''s something you''ll have to live with. And I pity you for that." Madame glanced at Ricky, who was still looking forward, a faint smile playing on his lips.


    "Uh, I guess thank you," Ricky said, unsure of how to respond to such a deep conversation.


    Sometimes he would know what to say but others he never quite knew what the proper reply was, but he felt a strange sense of gratitude.


    Madame hadn''t dismissed his struggles or only focused on the man he''d become; instead, she had acknowledged the moments of weakness that had shaped him.


    It was through those very weaknesses, the pain, the self-reflection, that Ricky had become who he was standing before her now as he might regret certain things, but he would never feel ashamed of them.


    "I guess it ain''t all that pretty for broads either," Ricky wondered aloud, his words thoughtful as Madame smiled at his statement, her fingers lightly tapping his chest in a playful acknowledgement.


    "Honey, you don''t have to level with me-"


    "But I will, because your father was a fucking idiot for running out on your mother," Ricky spat out, his anger rising, almost self-relefcting as he thought about all the bastards he had who still believed he''d abandoned them.


    "Thank you, honey," Madame''s tone was warm despite the cold night as she turned to him.


    Ricky smiled, leaning down as the moment they shared seemed to connect, their breaths meeting in the still air.


    "Oh look, a shooting star," Madame suddenly turned her cheek, receiving a kiss right there as she smiled at the sky and Ricky turned to her, a cynical smile crossing his face as he watched her.


    "I guess I had that coming," Ricky muttered, lowering his head onto her shoulder, gently tapping his forehead against it.


    "But that isn''t the only cold thing here, isn''t it a bit chilly?" Ricky turned his head to Madame who looked at him with a raised eyebrow, her lips curling into an amused smile as she met his playful look.


    "It''s nothing I can''t handle." Madame knew what he was doing, but for some reason, played along.


    "I know, but if only there was a place with a luxury room that had heating-"


    Gasp


    Ricky let out an exaggerated gasp, Madame rolling her eyes in the direction where Ricky was looking to see one of the most famous hotels, the Plaza, laying right next to Central Park.


    "Ha~" Madame let out a long, drawn-out laugh that formed into a sigh.


    "Alright, come on." Madame grabbed his hand with a side-eye, the alcohol getting the better of her as she wanted a man to keep her warm tonight, and she wanted Ricky to keep her warm.


    "Sweet." Ricky didn''t think that would work with Madame, but you miss all the shots you don''t take, and he swished this one.


    "Then which view would you prefer Madame-"


    "The penthouse and tonight don''t call me Madame."Madame stopped before the entrance, gazing back at Ricky''s stupid smile and raising her gaze.


    "Call me, Stephanie."


    Author''s Note: Yeah, you''re seeing it right, I posted this early.

 Chapter 147: Chapter 142: Dessert (R18)

    147  Chapter 142: Dessert (R18)


    Meanwhile In The Lobby Of The Plaza,


    "Josh-"


    "It''s not funny anymore, Tom." Josh muttered, clearly unimpressed by his co-workers humor.


    "Hey-"


    "Dammit, Tom! I''m trying to categorize!" Josh snapped, his voice rising in frustration as he jerked his head up, a hateful expression etched across his face.


    During the night shift, both of them always took it since it came with a pay bonus, but Tom had a habit of messing with him. He often snuck around the desk to scare Josh or pretended to be a customer just to make him flinch.


    This time, however, when Josh looked up, expecting to see Tom, he was met with the amused gaze of Ricky and the raised eyebrow of the illustrious Madame St. Clair or now known by Ricky as Stephanie.


    "Excuse you?" Stephanie asked, slowly crossing her arms, giving the man a silent opportunity to reconsider his words.


    "I-I-y-you-"


    "Buddy, relax, just start over," Ricky chuckled, glancing at the bumbling man before side-eyeing Tom, who was ducking his head with a pale expression.


    "Yes, Mr. Luciano. Thank you, Mr. Luciano." Josh stammered, fully aware of who both Ricky and Stephanie were. He quickly apologized for his tone and attitude.


    "How may I assist you today, esteemed guests?" Josh asked, flashing a polished business smile to demonstrate his professionalism before Stephanie slowly uncrossed her arms as Ricky''s hand slid around her waist.


    "Penthouse suite with a bottle of champagne delivered at the top of every hour. If no one answers after two times, leave it by the door," Stephanie instructed smoothly as Josh hurried to the side, fumbling for a notepad, and quickly jotted down her request.


    "Keys." Stephanie held out her hand. Josh quickly grabbed them from the side and placed them in her palm, his gaze shifting to Ricky, who was clearly enjoying himself as he was led toward the elevator.


    "Thanks for the help, asshole," Josh muttered, scowling at Tom, who was still frozen in place as his Irish roots made the very idea of Ricky terrifying.


    The Irish community in New York was the first to feel the impact of Ricky''s presence, as the Irish Mafia was the first group to be wiped out in the battle for territory under his rule. However, unlike the Jewish mob, where figures like Meyer and Jake provided much needed clarity to calm down the rampant fear, the Luciano family had no Irish figures in their ranks, which led to Ricky being demonized in the community.


    He became a sort of boogeyman in Irish folklore, a figure parents used to scare their children and in their stories, Ricky became this embodiment of unbridled resentment that brewed beneath the surface.


    "We''ll do it." Those were the last words the attendants heard as they turned to the side, watching the elevator boy stumble out, then glance back at Ricky, who was waving and laughing as Stephanie, meanwhile, calmly closed the door.


    "God, the way you-" Ricky was about to say some sort of cheesy line, trying to make Stephanie cringe before she suddenly grabbed his collar and yanked him down.


    In the next moment, his tongue moved with fervor, exploring the depths of Stephanie''s kiss, her lips warm and wet against his.


    The alcohol, the IP skills, and everything in between had stirred something in Stephanie that made her want to cut loose and really feel what it was her body desired.


    Ricky''s eyes went from surprise to amusement in the snap of a finger, which made his hand slither down her back to grab that supple ass he always shamelessly gazed at.


    ''Wet to the touch.''


    "Hmmmmmm~" Stephanie moaned in the thralls of Ricky''s lips, feeling her other lips drool at his mere touch only for his fingers to press firmly into her supple ass.


    Grabbing and contorting, his fingers never even brushed against her trembling lips, as if molding the desire that hungered for something to fill its depths.


    That feeling, the one that wetted her in an instant, should''ve dissipated, lingering and yet, those simmering effects were suddenly amplified.


    Stephanie''s eyes fluttered, everything catching her off guard as she''d expected Ricky to be aggressive, but in a different way.


    "H-Ha~" Stephanie breathlessly moaned, her lips released while her teary eyes opened to the sight of Ricky slowly lowering himself.


    Those fingers that gripped and contorted such an elastic feeling, slowly slithered around her thighs as Ricky ducked his head under her dress to her drenched panties.


    Positioning her thighs on his shoulders, he kneeled with his sleazy smile before ripping off her white lingerie without any care.


    "Ah~" Stephanie''s head hit the back of the elevator wall, her hands spreading out until they were placed firmly on the railings at the very first instance of his tongue slithering in between those slobbering folds of hers.


    There was a reason Ricky didn''t order dessert; instead, he opted to take it to go but even when the room was just at a distance, he was still so hungry.


    It was why he was fine dining right there on the chocolate dessert that was Madame, making sure to lick every inch of her clean until he was satisfied.


    ''Bon appetit'' Ricky joked, his fingers gripping and latching onto her thighs while his tongue slowly delved into his meal.


    The art of cunnilingus had been long tainted by the arrival of porn, with many thinking that simply sticking your tongue in and licking would make someone respond. But the truth was, you had to tease it, like Ricky was doing now with his tongue tenderly tracing around her lips before delivering gentle kisses.


    Cunnilingus was about commitment, and Ricky was just testing the waters, knowing that every girl liked it differently.


    He was finding all the spots within her lips that just made Stephanie tick, feeling the subtle vibrations of her body responding to every flick of his touch.


    "Mmmmmmmh~" Stephanie moaned, closing her eyes and letting herself fully indulge in the sensation. Instead of a full tsunami of pleasure, waves of it now rolled through her, subtle yet intoxicating.


    Once Ricky really got a hold of her lips, his movements slowly traced upward toward her clitoris.


    Simply flicking his tongue wasn''t enough, he cupped his mouth around the top of her slit, savoring every delicate motion.


    "O-Oh~" Stephanie moaned in surprise, shivering as he pushed his tongue against her hood before starting in earnest.


    It was as if he were etching a map, maneuvering his mouth over all those sensitive spots on her lips before tracing the paths with his tongue. But even then, with the subtle presses and flicks of his tongue as it danced around her hood and teased her clit, her reactions spoke louder than words.


    Feeling the fervency of her moans fueled Ricky to dive deeper into the sensation, pushing as far as he could without going too far, keeping her tethered to the pleasure. Stephanie''s chest rose and fell subtly, her head tilting back, as every little detail Ricky discovered from her body heightened the connection.


    Her hands tightened around the rails, each little moan spilling from her lips as Ricky cracked them like clues in a mystery, using every hint to penetrate deeper, unraveling her responses.


    Then, those fingers resting firmly on the inside, started slithering towards her wettening folds.


    One finger gently slithered above her slit, pressing lightly before pulling upwards and revealing that hidden nubbin that was so tucked away.


    With that same hand, his thumb maneuvered to the bottom of her slit, pressing between her folds and gently slipping the tip in, anchoring her to some form of penetration.


    "H-AH~" Stephanie''s back arched, her moan escaping as her legs trembled, then wrapped around his head, seemingly locking him in place.


    With subtle ease, Ricky pressed his tongue against her clit before continuing downward, the tip of his tongue teasing her before sliding further, finally entering her.


    "R-Right there, right¡ªha~" Stephanie moaned, offering reassurance, encouraging Ricky, who was already in tune with her, spurring her approval.


    At the end of the day, guidance was key, as it was the woman who knew what she wanted, and Ricky simply followed along. Slipping his other hand to hold open her other lip, he gently began to explore all the places that triggered the deepest reactions.


    "Ah~"


    "AH~"


    "AH!"


    Stephanie''s breath became shaky, her voice rising as her body moved in rhythm with Ricky''s mouth, which drove her to the edge of her sanity. It was then that the build-up appeared, teetering on the brink of her mind as her eyes rolled back as her hands, which had been clutching the rails for dear life, suddenly sank into his slicked-back hair.


    "AHH!" Stephanie almost screamed, pressing Ricky''s smug face into her folds as the doors finally opened.


    Ding


    The elevator doors opened as Stephanie reached her peak, her body arching in pleasure. She pulled Ricky closer, her hands and legs wrapping around his head as she guided him deeper, her breath quickening as her release came in waves, flooding him with his hard earned meal.


    "Oh god~" Stephanie huffed, leaning backwards until her back and head hit the wall as she side-eyed the penthouse door of the penthouse suite.


    "Mmmmmmmh~" Ricky hummed under her skirt, licking his lips at his dessert but even after all of that, he was still hungry.


    He gripped his thighs, pushing himself up with sudden force, and in a blink, he was standing in front of her, breathing heavily. She met his gaze, her expression shifting before she rolled her eyes and kicked open the door in front of him.


    "Just say it-" Stephanie scoffed, seemingly knowing what he was going to ask for Ricky to interrupt.


    "Are you up for seconds?" Ricky asked, effortlessly carrying her out of the elevator and into the penthouse suite.


    "Where are you going?" Stephanie asked, catching her breath as her head, which had been resting on his shoulder, snapped up as quickly as it had settled.


    Stephanie watched as Ricky walked away from the minibar, only for him to turn around and laugh before leading her toward it. Amidst the bottles of alcohol, grenadine, orange juice, and ginger ale, there sat a small section of condiments.


    "You''re dirty~" Stephanie whispered, watching Ricky grab four of the cans of Hershey''s and Bosco chocolate syrup.


    "Don''t worry, we''ll lick it clean." Ricky flashed a sleazy smile just before Stephanie''s lips met his, allowing him to carry her toward the bed.


    With a mischievous gleam in her eyes, Stephanie snatched one of the cans from his hands as she cracked it open and, with a devilish grin, poured it over his perfectly slicked-back hair.


    "Wow~" Ricky stopped in his tracks as he entered the bedroom, a laugh escaping him just as a full can of chocolate was dumped onto his head as it splashed down his face and soaked his suit.


    "Hahahahaha!" Stephanie laughed uncontrollably, her joy filling the air, until she suddenly let out a surprised screech.


    Without hesitation, Ricky tossed her across the room, and she landed directly on the bed, her surprised expression quickly replaced by an amused smile.


    "Oh no, I ruined your suit~" Stephanie gasped, covering her mouth as Ricky wiped the chocolate from his eyes, still wearing his sleazy grin.


    Slowly removing his shoes and suit jacket, Ricky tossed two cans onto the bed before opening one for himself.


    The sound of the lid popping open made Stephanie freeze as she looked up to find Ricky smiling at her, and before she could react, she tried to bolt off the bed.


    "N-No, NO¡ªAHAHAHAHAHA!" Stephanie laughed, trying to stop him as she neared the edge of the bed, but Ricky tackled her, and they both rolled back onto the king-sized mattress.


    The chocolate syrup poured all over her hair and dress as Stephanie laughed uncontrollably at Ricky''s boldness.


    "You did not!" Stephanie exclaimed, her tone light and playful, pretending to be upset as Ricky hovered over her, removing his shirt, now stained with chocolate.


    "Oh no, did I ruin your dress~?" Ricky teased, his voice matching hers as he reached for his tie, only for Stephanie to grab it and pull him down toward her.


    The taste of chocolate lingered on their tongues, blending with the sweetness of each other as they lost themselves in the moment, stripping away their clothes.


    Their chocolate-stained garments were discarded to the sides, while their bare bodies remained intertwined, savoring the lingering taste on their lips.


    Pushing him down, Stephanie reached for a can of chocolate before hovering above Ricky''s naked body.


    Opening the can along with her mouth, she slowly trickled down the syrup into her mouth while purposely letting it overfill.


    It was as if it drooled from her mouth and down onto her body, forming various streams of chocolaty goodness that seeped across her delicious skin.


    Chocolate met chocolate, and even the vanilla couldn''t escape the syrup as those streams began to drip slowly onto him.


    Her hand gently grabbed his meaty cock, propping it up and into her folds as the chocolate streams congregated between her lips and flowed directly onto his cock that had already been coated in her juices.


    Gulp


    Ricky couldn''t even try to be soft at this moment, watching as Stephanie finally swallowed that mouthful of syrup before licking her lips and bending down.


    With her ass arching upwards, her eyes never leaving his as she moved downward all the way to his cock, licking her lips at the meal that had become Ricky''s chocolate glazed banana.


    Her mouth opened with the intent of tasting this delicious treat, wrapping her lips around his cock before slowly pushing her head down.


    "God damn~" Ricky grunted, watching the act of Stephanie devouring his banana in one fell swoop, seemingly swallowing him whole.


    Feeling her juicy, wet mouth slurp on his cock and then greedily swallowing made Ricky actually lean back while instinctively reaching out to grab the side of her hair.


    Her eyes watered, but it was that stubborn tenacity that pushed his cock all the way down her throat until he let her easily raise her head.


    Slurping all the way up and finally releasing his cock, it was revealed to only show slight stains of where the chocolate remained as Stephanie went down for seconds.


    As if paying tribute to Ricky''s performance, her tongue pressed against the back of his cock before she slid her head down.


    Tasting every inch of him as she swallowed him all the way down to her throat before her tongue pressed on once her nose touched his skin.


    Tasing every inch of him, she swallowed him all the way down her throat once more until her nose brushed against his skin, her tongue pressed against him, savoring the taste.


    But she didn''t stop as her tongue seeped lower, just enough to lick against his meaty balls before pulling back, reaching the top again.


    Her mouth stopped at the tip, pressing her tongue gently into his urethra before swirling it around, her hand grabbing his slobbered shaft with a firm grip.


    Using her own saliva as lube, she started jerking him off while putting her entire focus on his tip.


    Counterclockwise, clockwise, she was unveiling a technique that sought to savor every facet of his cock.


    Then, as if she couldn''t top the tip of his cock, she trailed her other hand and slowly started cradling his balls.


    Maneuvering her fingers as if trying to manually milk him, she instantly felt the twitching of his member spur with every graceful movement.


    It was overwhelming to say the least and Ricky felt his balls churn at the movement of her hands.


    "Jesus christ~" Ricky grunted, unable to think about holding back as he immediately pulled her head down onto his throbbing cock.


    Swirling within the deepest depths of his balls, her movements ruptured a thick seismic wave of gunk that flowed directly into her mouth down to her throat before spurting out his milky white cum.


    It was suffocating to say the least, feeling that rubbery material shoot down her throat in repetitive bursts before nestling into her stomach.


    Filling her taste buds with the rich flavor of his cum, she was held down to enjoy every ounce as that warmth scorched her mouth with an addictive taste that would never be toppled by any cigarette.


    Ricky gritted his teeth, feeling his balls churn out that last little bit before he released her hair and slicked his hand back through his chocolate drenched hair.


    Huff


    Huff


    Stephanie was breathless, strands of salvia bridges still connecting her tongue to his dangling cock, chocolate-brown hair hung just above her eyes.


    They were both a mess, but neither of them minded the sticky touch of each other as Ricky licked his lips, eyeing the breathless Stephanie.


    "You''re an animal~" Stephanie huffed, her eyes following Ricky as he grabbed the last can of chocolate syrup.


    Leaning back on the bed, she watched as Ricky crawled on top of her, pouring a line of syrup from her folds all the way up her body.


    Only when Stephanie was drenched in that sticky chocolate goodness did Ricky throw the can away. He traced his tongue up the line of syrup, savoring the sweetness as it spilled onto his taste buds, before guiding it upwards across her body.


    Stephanie couldn''t help but wait with bated breath, her gaze locked on his greedy eyes, knowing he wanted to devour every inch of her, and the chocolate was just the excuse.


    Then, once his tongue drew that clear line all the way to her face, he pressed his forehead against hers and slowly lined himself up in between her chocolate folds.


    "O-Oh~" Stephanie muttered breathlessly, her gaze flickering away, but she couldn''t escape the pull of his enchanting eyes, which seemed to hold her captive.


    Trying to gaze down to see his cock slowly pressed between her folds, gently parting them as his hips lowered into her waist in a slow, deliberate motion.


    If Stephanie had to describe the feeling, it was as though she''d been punched in the stomach, the force continuing to push deeper.


    Exhaling deeply, she tried to make even the slightest room for him, his cock seeming to stretch endlessly in its pursuit.


    "Wait-AH~" Stephanie gasped, pressing against his chest, but his tip grazed a spot that made her body spasm uncontrollably.


    "Just a little further~" Ricky whispered, halfway there as he felt completely enthralled when he was continuously pushing deeper, captivated by the sensation of being enveloped by her.


    "And there we go~" Ricky narrated, slamming the very last bit into her being as Stephanie couldn''t help but recoil, instinctively wrapping her limbs around his body.


    Her arms wrapped around his back, nails digging into his skin, while her legs locked around his waist, her toes curling tightly, turning white with an intensity.


    "A-A-A-" Stephanie was speechless, trying to convey a semblance of a moan, feeling it all at once was different from hearing Ricky brag about it.


    "Just breathe~" Ricky whispered, lowering his lips to her ear and kissing it gently while the trembling Stephnie, eyes widened, stared at the ceiling above her.


    Stephanie had taken it first hand and yet, when it all laid inside her with a gentle twitch hear and there, it still made her take a moment.


    Ricky, on the other hand, was really digging in as his tongue licked her skin clean as if she would turn white at his persistence.


    Taking a deep breath, Stephanie hit her forehead against his shoulder, tracing one of her hands up his back and grabbing hte back of his hair as if that would help anchor her.


    "S-Slow~" Stephanie whispered, trying not to lower herself but couldn''t help it and asked as Ricky grabbed the bed frame behind her.


    Gripping it tightly, Ricky used the other to grab her thigh before slightly pulling out but before he could get midway, Stephanie pressed her legs against his waist while indeictly telling him to stop there.


    "AH~" Stephanie moaned, her head slamming back against the bed as she felt him slowly push back into her being.


    However, this sweet treat, this chocolatey goodness that Ricky had been pinning for years now, was missing one key ingredient.


    But making this key ingreidnt was a vital and yet slow process of continuously spreading her apart with his cock and then pulling out as she pulled back together.


    This process was called churning, and the ingredient it produced through this arduous and slow process was cream.


    This thick and white substance formed from churning gives way to a texture that feels luxurious on the skin.


    Hoping to lather his cock in Stephanie''s delicious cream before devouring her completely, Ricky was patient, or at least trying to be.


    Crack


    The bed frame cracked under his strength as he pushed forward, captivated by the tight sloppiness that enveloped him.


    Feeling Stephanie''s being all but collapsed on his cock, smothering him with that warm, hot texture of her guts.


    "Ricky~" "Ricky~" "Ricky~" What drove him mad, however, was how Stephanie wouldn''t'' stop moaning his name at this slow and arduous process.


    But it was deeper than that, having his ear graced with her hot supple breath which uttered his name with a fervent desire, giving into him as she wrapped her body around him and held on tightly. This strong, commanding woman who stood tall above all others in the pursuit of her goals was now utterly pinned down beneath him under the object of his pleasure.


    It was a pain that could only be understood in the moment as Ricky stood up after sliding his cock back into her warm, welcoming folds and receiving the applause for his actions in the form of his name out her lustful lips.


    Her hands slowly pulled away from his back and hair, her eyes fluttering open at the disruption to see Ricky hovering above her and before she could react, those hands of hers were pinned to the bed.


    What Stephanie saw was the sleazy smile of Ricky who gazed down at his hard work, his eyes causing hers to look down to see that white thick textured slathered at the base of his cock.


    Pulling out his veiny cock, which was now covered in her white substance, Ricky couldn''t help but admire his work.


    SMACK


    With a single movement, Ricky pushed his creamed cock back into Stephanies''s being, splitting her in two as both her mind and body seemed to separate at that moment.


    The bedframe slammed against the wall, already groaning under the strain of Ricky''s actions, bracing itself for a brutal session.


    "RICKY~" Stephanie finally moaned out, her brain short circuiting and screeching out his name in such a sloppy way that made the veins in Ricky''s neck bulge.


    Nothing turned Ricky on more than hearing a gorgeous woman moan his name, and now, Stephanie had unknowingly sealed her fate as an expectant mother.


    Bringing his cock out, there was no longer any hesitation from both Ricky''s mind and Stepahnies body.


    Both of them had reached their ends with Stephanie''s insides preparing for the descent of Ricky''s current madness.


    SMACK


    The bedframe smacked even harder against the wall as Ricky plowed down into Stephanie''s being as if getting ready to plant his seed.


    "RI-"


    SMACK "RI-"


    SMACK "RI-"


    SMACK


    Stephanie felt as if she were being split apart at the seams, being unraveled then rewoven all by his cock that continuously plunged into her, delving deeper into her, and rewriting everything that a woman was supposed to handle.


    Each utterance of his name always fell short with every thrust, the bedframe groaning as it narrated the struggles for her, offering a small glimpse of what Stephanie was truly enduring.


    Unknowingly, Stephanie was currently having her body be reduced to a mere barrel churn under Ricky''s cock. Having her insides constantly plunged in and out by him as the only thing she could do, the only purpose he gave her, was producing cream.


    Stephanie tongue sprawled about, slobbering out only the first two letters of his name before feeling his all encompassing cock ravage into her mind.


    Everything Stephanie thought she knew about pleasure was being rewritten, her neural pathways shifting with each overwhelming sensation.


    Sparks seemed to fly, her mind rearranging along with her guts that flushed out a flood of sensations, lathering upon a thick layer on both her mind and his cock. It felt as though every nerve ending was being ignited with each powerful thrust, lighting up with every plunge of his hips into her waist.


    "I-I can''t~" Stephanie whined, teary eyed while shaking her head as if reverting to that of a helpless girl under him.


    "You can~" Ricky assured her, huffing out a breath before slamming down his cock into her being that weirdly enough, helped reinforce those words.


    Stephanie didn''t understand how this was happening, how one white body was destroying her being with every single sense of the word.


    The only thing she heard was the sloppy sound of her guts rearranged, the only thing she smelled was the intoxicating taste of his scent, the only thing she could see were those charming eyes that locked her sight on his being, and that addictive taste that still lingered on her tongue.


    Stephanie had strived to be the independent woman that would make her mother proud and yet, under his cock, she was becoming helpless.


    "I''m coming~" Ricky groaned, ramping up his pace while interlocking his fingers around hers as she shook her head.


    But the pace all but doubled, slamming down into Stephanie with a jarring force that would forever alter everything she ever thought she knew about a man.


    "I''m~" Ricky was completely lost in his own pleasure, focusing on churning out his own organism while ramping up his pace.


    "AH~"


    "AH~"


    "AH~" The thrusts were quick, precise, and fired off at the sound of every panicked moan of Stephanie who looked down in actual fear at what this would do to her until Ricky pulled out his cream slathered cock, and ruthlessly slammed it all back into her.


    SMACK


    "Oh~" Stephanie let out the smallest reaction with the smallest tone, only for her mind to erupt as that sparkling feeling erupted into fireworks.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Stephanie screeched out a moan, her eyes watering but her lips were forced into a smile, the climax crumpling her sanity into pieces.


    Her body convulsed, breaking apart and forming under the pleasure induced upon her before a warmth spurted into the deepest regions of her being.


    "Coming~" Ricky grunted, closing his eyes with a wide smile, seemingly getting even by creaming her insides. It was as if that feeling of outdoing one another showed itself in the load he imparted onto her, giving her an almost generous helping of his baby batter.


    No words could ever capture the thick, scorching eruption that swirled around her stomach, unable to even compare it to when she herself had swallowed it earlier.


    It felt like fate shifting, life-changing, as the warmth spread through her body, sending a shiver down Stephanie''s spine, her first greeting to motherhood.


    Her hands fell away as she sat there, covering her face in disbelief at what had just transpired.


    They were supposed to play chess, a back-and-forth game, strategically maneuvering their pieces until they reached a stalemate.


    In her mind, Stephanie had envisioned a fun night, a playful back-and-forth with Ricky but sometimes, you can''t plan for the chaos that now stirred within her. So when she opened her eyes and glanced at the mirror above the bed, reflecting on her most shameful experience, she froze.


    Her haggard, chocolate covered body that was still impaled onto Ricky''s cock, watched with a front row seat as his hand traced upward, cupping onto her skin gently.


    Trailing it across her skin as he gathered any remnants of chocolate that still slathered onto her body before slowly prying open her mouth.


    "Not what you expected, huh?" Ricky whispered, his gaze shifting to the mirror as their eyes met, both watching as he gently opened her mouth, slathering it with chocolate.


    Prying out her tongue, his fingers coated it with a sweet chocolate refuge that their bodies churned out when they were grinding upon one another.


    "Oh Stephanie, sex isn''t give and take." Ricky chuckled, kissing the back of her neck while staring directly back into the reflection.


    "At least, not with me," Ricky murmured, his kisses trailing slowly from her neck to her shoulder, each one seeming to spell out the words he was about to say.


    "It''s about straight raw f*cking, it''s about ramping up that engine before it''s pumping at full speed." Ricky shamelessly said, describing what he had just unleashed upon her only moments ago.


    "It''s about feeling everything until you just f*cking explode, until there''s no reason left except to slam our bodies into each other, over and over, until we figure out what makes us tick. That''s sex." Ricky gritted his teeth, smiling widely as Stephanie insides involuntarily clenched down.


    "And I''m going to make you tick to my cock~" Ricky joked, his hand grabbing her waist before his other fingers pushed his chocolate covered fingers into her mouth.


    CLAP


    "Arghsga~" Stephanie slurred out a discombobulated form of a moan, eyes twitching upwards while feeling the second coming of Ricky''s cock.


    Her perky ass colliding as if applauding her lips, covered in her own cream, ravaged once more as he released his hold on her mouth.


    Stephanie''s head slammed down into the bed, barely able to keep her thoughts together much less her body up.


    "Arch your back." Ricky grunted, digging his fingers into her waist and plunging another helping of himself into her being.


    SLAP


    "Arch your back," Ricky instructed, giving her perky ass a playful slap, curious to see how she''d respond, only to watch her body tremble, her ass quivering along.


    Stephanie involuntarily reacted to his demands, arching her back at the behest of his command, having her response met with Ricky slamming his waist into her ass, watching it jiggle slightly before pulling back aggressively.


    Grabbing a pillow, Stephanie felt a wave of helplessness, the only thing she felt as if she could do was hold on as her face was pressed into it. Drool dampened the fabric, yet she couldn''t understand why she couldn''t look away.


    Why she couldn''t take her eyes off the sight of her reflection''s ass being utterly obliterated by Ricky''s cock.


    Watching him plunge his cock into her being, churning out a thick cream that slathered all around him, and showed it to her all peering eyes before repeating the process.


    Then, in between her muffled moans, her eyes shrunk as a foreign invader suddenly seeped into her uncharted territory.


    His thumb, the same one that had been curiously rubbing her ring, slowly took the next step and seeped into her ass to test the waters.


    Honestly, Ricky felt he deserved a reward for his efforts and most people might buy themselves a car after achieving something like taking over New York, but Ricky, he just wanted a piece of this ass.


    Breaking it off for his own delicious delight and helping himself completely, Ricky wanted to savor every part of this kit kat bar.


    But first, Ricky dined on Stephanie''s prime asset, hungirly helping himself to every inch of her being. Hearing the sloppy applause echoing all around the penthouse at her guts being rearranged.


    Delivering the most ravaging backshots possible as Stephanie took all of it, without so much as a complaint.


    Everything in this city was his and Ricky finally took the time to appreciate it while inside of Stephanie.


    It was why he suddenly yanked her off the bed and carried her over to the window, where the sprawling sight of New York awaited.


    "AH~" Stephanie scrambled, losing the grip on the pillow as she was suddenly transported in front of the clear window that sat directly next to them.


    Instinctively, she placed both hands on the glass for support as her knees wobbled, only for Ricky to thrust upward, pushing her back into place.


    Pinning her upwards on his cock, his hands held onto both sides of her waist while that thumb still pressed into her ass.


    CLAP


    CLAP


    CLAP


    The euphoric feeling filled Ricky''s ears, slamming his cock into Stephanie''s ass which continuously resounded out that deafening applause for his efforts.


    This was the moment Ricky took it all in, looking over the skyline while delivering the most devious backshots to Stephanie.


    ''I''m the f*cking king.'' Ricky thought, gritting his teeth while looking over the city that was now his.


    ''It''s all mine.'' Ricky chuckled, his laughter towering over Stepahnie''s moans as he reveled in everything all at once.


    "This ass, this pussy, your lips, you''re mine Stephanie~" Ricky gazed down, overlooking the show he was giving the city while telling her of his intentions.


    "AH~" Stephanie moaned, her forehead pressing against the glass as it was too much for her to handle and yet, she repeatedly took it.


    Ricky didn''t mind if others thought it was selfish to have multiple women; the notion of a truly good person maintaining a collection of them seemed utterly absurd to him.


    But he wasn''t striving for goodness; he was chasing desire, power, and the thrill of everything he never had.


    Right now, when he plummeted his hips into her waist, hearing the ringing of her asscheeks smacking together, he wanted Stephanie.


    That was it, plain and simple.


    "ARGH!" Ricky grunted, putting every ounce of strength into his next thrust at the inkling of a feeling, that subtle twitch of his balls that signaled it was time to push it all into Stephanie.


    "AHHH~" Stephanie moaned out aggressively, creaming another layer onto his spurting cock.


    Feeling his hot gunk rummage around her insides, spurting out another serving that was already swirling in her womb.


    There would be nothing after Ricky, no man, no desire, and nothing that wasn''t filled to the brim with the image of him and tonight, he was going to make damn sure of it."


    There would be nothing after Ricky, no man or no desire that wasn''t filled to the brim with the image of him and tonight, he was going to make sure of that.


    A woman like Stephanie needed to be reduced to nothing, utterly helpless and stripped to her bare bones, before he would begin to rebuild her, layer by layer, with every piece of himself until she felt consumed and whole.


    Knock


    Knock


    The door knocked, signaling the arrival of their first bottle of champagne, just as the dirty chocolate-covered and cream Stephanie, slowly slid down the pane of glass as Ricky finally released his hold on her.


    "Oh, room service is here." Ricky ran a hand through his chocolate-laced black hair, strolling toward the door with an air of nonchalance, as if he hadn''t just left Stephanie utterly wrecked seconds earlier.


    As soon as her ass hit the floor, her cream filling slowly leaked and pooled beneath her, staining the smooth surface of her skin as she rested her head against the glass, consumed by a single thought.


    ''I''m f*cked.'' Stephanie felt out of her element, knowing that no human could go toe to toe with a wild animal like Ricky.


    "Aye, hotel guy." Ricky flung open the door, calling out as the man turned, flinching before turning his eyes upwards and admiring the ceiling.


    The reason being because Ricky stood there, still naked, grabbing the champagne and pointing at him before tearing the cork off with a sharp snap.


    "If you want to make a thousand bucks tomorrow, get your pen and notebook." Ricky gestured casually, taking a long swig of the outrageously expensive complimentary champagne as the man, revealed to be Josh from earlier, widened his eyes in surprise.


    "What do you need, Mr. Luciano?" Josh seemingly pulled a notebook and pen out of nowhere while thoughtfully asking towards Ricky.


    "I want just buckets full of chocolate syrup, strawberries, and other sweet stuff like honey." Ricky pointed at Josh, his eyes glinting as he prepared a decadent feast meant to adorn Stephanie''s body.


    "Get me whipped cream, all kinds of sweets, and get me some f*cking lube because I want it." Ricky didn''t bother to list anything else, his eyes fixed on Josh, who nodded, furiously scribbling it all down.


    "Mr. Luciano, every high-end suite is stocked with lubricant, in the small pink bottles," Josh said with a smile while Ricky nodded, then reached to the side and tossed a crumpled wad of ten hundred-dollar bills at him.


    "You better get me that shit in less than thirty minutes," Ricky snapped, slamming the door as Josh nodded vigorously.


    30 minutes later,


    "HA~"


    THUMP


    "HA~"


    THUMP


    "HA~"


    THUMP


    The hotel door rattled as if something were slamming against it, followed by sharp, heavy thuds echoing through the wood.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHH~" Stephanie''s voice rang out from the other side, a long, drawn-out cry of pure, unrestrained lust.


    "There we go~" Ricky grunted, his breath quickening as he released another wave, letting out a satisfied sigh along with releasing another huge serving size of his cum, stuffing it all into Stephanie.


    Josh, needing the help of other hotel employees to carry the items, froze as they all collectively heard what was happening behind the door. Hesitant, Josh slowly reached out his hand, his nerves evident, and quietly attempted to knock.


    Knock


    Knock


    The door swung open to reveal Stephanie, wrapped in a blanket, shielding the attendants from the sight of her naked body. She was held in place, impaled onto Ricky''s cock, one arm wrapped firmly around her back, anchoring her in his grasp.


    In the other hand, Ricky held the champagne bottle, beckoning the attendants in with a flick of his wrist before taking another swing.


    "Yeah, just place it all right there," Ricky said nonchalantly, pointing to the center of the penthouse as the attendants hurriedly set down the food. Once the last bucket of honey was placed in the center, Josh bowed quickly and dashed out the door.


    BAM


    The door slammed shut, and as it did, the blanket covering Stephanie fell away, leaving her exposed. Ricky glanced over at the food spread out before him.


    "Are you ready to make a mess?" Ricky asked Stephanie with a sleazy smile, noticing her tired expression, still unbelieving that he could keep going.


    "You''re a beast." Stephanie pushed Ricky''s jaw away, trying to walk only to stumble to the ground.


    Tipping over the same bucket of honey, her body fell onto the outpouring of its contents spilling across the floor, the sticky liquid enveloping her skin like the remnants of his cum still adorning her insides.


    "Then try to tame me," Ricky chuckled, pouncing on her as if the opportunity were as golden as the honey spilling around them.


    "Ah~" Stephanie moaned, writhing in the sticky liquid of honey, proning out a response to the sensation of Ricky''s cock once again slithering into her being.


    "Take your treat and go~" Stephanie moaned out, grabbing a fistful of cake from the side and pushing it into Ricky''s mouth before she slathered it down.


    Ricky couldn''t help but chuckle, gulping down the cake but still slamming his hips down into her being.


    "My god~" Stephanie muttered, completely defeated as her hands pushed on either side of her body before grabbing her sticky hair.


    Stephanie could feel his hunger, see the desperation to satisfy it in his eyes as they reflected her body.


    No food around them could quench the starving hunger of his lust, knowing that it was this unending pit that could never be satisfied.


    There only felt like one option, one decision, and it prompted her to hold out her arms and caress his cheek.


    Pulling his face down towards her face and simply giving in, sharing the cake with Ricky as her tongue swirled around his.


    Ricky tried to push his toes into the ground of the honey but no traction would be enough in this honey.


    Prompting every thrust to push these two sticky individuals forward while oblivious to the surroundings while lip locked in one another.


    Bam


    With the next thrust, meant to only obliterate her guts, had pushed them into one of the carts harbingering an array of dessert.


    Ricky easily held up his hand and caught the cart from falling on them but not the sweets, which all fell onto them as if their conjoined bodies were a table.


    Cakes, ice cream, and everything in between covered their bodies, all beneath the blanket of honey they found themselves tangled in.


    "You''re insane~" Stephanie moaned, watching Ricky break the kiss to enjoy his meal, looking up at her eyes in the process. It was as if a tiger were taunting a fawn, sinking its claws into her while the helpless creature could only watch. All the while, Ricky leisurely enjoyed the strawberry cheesecake that had fallen onto her left bicep before reaching over. Shamelessly, without hesitation, he poured an entire chocolate cake onto her chest, then pressed his vanilla chest top, squishing it inbetween her.


    "And?" Ricky chuckled, kissing her lightly as she grabbed some whipped cream from the side, slathering it across his mouth before working it into his hair.


    "You think you''re funny?" Ricky asked, thrusting deeply into Stephanie as she bit her lip


    "Hilarious~" Stephanie quipped back, only to shut her eyes and fully surrender to the sensation.


    "AH~" Stephanie let out a towering moan, completely lost in the moment, overwhelmed by the taste of Ricky.


    Her hands glided across his body, leaving marks as sweets lodged under her nails, all while Ricky indulged in this feast. He reveled in every inch of her, savoring the dessert that was Stephanie, topped with all sorts of ingredients.


    Ricky couldn''t stop himself, feeling utterly drawn into pushing the interaction between them deeper.


    Ricky suddenly stopped, breathless, as he reached for a pink bottle that Josh had secretly placed there.


    "Ricky?" Stephanie asked, feeling him pull out almost completely before being flipped onto her belly, the very place that would hold his children.


    "I want all of you." Ricky said such cryptic words before crushing the pink bottle, the clear gel liquid spurting onto his palm before he gazed down at her untouched ring.


    "Wha-N-No~" Stephanie turned back only for her cheek to press down into the honey, feeling his lubed up fingers suddenly start to seep into her ass.


    "Don''t worry, just wait and you''ll feel it-"


    "AH~" Stephanie didn''t even let Ricky finish, feeling the effect of his amplifying hands as his finger slowly grazed her G-spot.


    Ricky, surprised at how fast he had found it, gestured towards it to come to him as Stephanie back arched upwards.


    "It''s-"


    "I know, you''re f*cking tight~" Ricky didn''t care to listen, feeling that stranglehold wrap around his fingers before rubbing his creamed cock in some lube.


    Throwing the pink bottle to the side, Ricky propped his body right on top of the seemingly suffocated Stephanie.


    "Ready and breath-"


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH~" Stephanie towered out a moan, feeling his cock plunge into her ass while his hands started stimulating her pussy, amplifying every facet in which they touched.


    Pulling her upright, one hand expertly circled her clit, while the other made rapid, small movements, as if trying to milk her in the old-fashioned way.


    All of it culminated in her ass utterly ripping under his cock, reforming under its sheer girth while he amplified the pleasure over the pain.


    "Holy sh*t~" Ricky muttered, unable to get over the feeling of anal as it was a completely different and indescribable experience than normal sex.


    Her head honey laced hair jerked back onto his shoulder, slathering it in its sticky form while her teeth clenched together, as if they would break under the strain.


    The lubed up hole slowly shifted onto his cock, sliding down under the subtle force as Ricky sought to impale every single inch of him into her.


    Stephanie''s teeth clenched but her mouth contorted weirdly, her brain completely going haywire under the strain as it didn''t know what to make of it.


    On one side the ripping and stretching sensation should take priority, giving way to an excruciating pain that would cripple all assets of the mind.


    But the other side was being amplified by a foreign intruder, corroding it in the pleasure of Ricky''s skill that combated what she should feel and gave way to crippling lust.


    ''I''m f*cked.'' Stephanie reiterated those last words that were still looming around her mind before it completely shut off.


    It was like a switch and it was spurred on by Ricky ramming that very last part of his cock into her ass, shivering at that all inducing tightness that threatened to cut off his circulation.


    Her ass spasmed out a repetition of twitches, coddling his cock in the vibrations that only worsened the state of her mind.


    Stephanie had completely lost, having her inner workings rearranged as she slowly started to tick under the hands of his being.


    Gradually morphing under his cock as her ass ripped apart, reformed under his base before that wave of pleasure jerked forth by her creamfilled pussy washed over her mind, utterly neutralizing any pain.


    She had become Ricky''s dessert, his final course in the living proof of every promise he had made upon his return. The last promise he had received was spoken from her lips, and after all this time, he had finally fulfilled it, along with her ass.


    "OH GOD!" Stephanie grunted, finally uttering the words towards the heavens that had damned her to this beast as a punishment for her sins.


    Clenching down her ass, trying to somehow stop the madness that filled her ass completely only to spur him on.


    Licking Stephanie clean, Ricky wasn''t satisfied until the sweet taste left his taste buds.


    But as his hips pounded into her ass, his cock reaching deeper until that promise was fulfilled, he acted like some sort of devil and continued to slather her in the array of deserts to prolong himself.


    Even Stephanie had her mouth filled by the sweet treats surrounding them, having her moans halted at the sudden arrival of his vanilla cake.


    But this seemed to be a promise that would ultimately go unfilled as the carts around them put together a number of sweets that showed the night never ending and Ricky could feel himself spurred on.


    Not only by the tightness of her ass, not only by the complete surrender of her body, but by the culmination of all it induced upon the delicate foods slathered across her body.


    Pinning her down under him, Ricky pressed all of himself onto her, into her, and completely decided to lose himself in the feeling.


    Even in the most subtle nuisances of their f*cking, the slight twitches of her body or the way their lathered honey skin stickily grinded against one another.


    Ricky wanted to savor every single bite of his dessert before he pressed his hands down onto hands, pinning them against the floor.


    Stephanie, eyes rolled back and a mouthful of cake yet to swallow, jerked back and forth as their bodies slammed into each other, over and over again, finally figuring out what made them tick.


    Finding the euphoria in each other''s touch as his movements ramped up to their highest crescendo before he exploded it all out towards her and into her.


    "Argh~" Ricky grunted out in a finality, releasing that final serving into Stephanie''s ass.


    Her hole exploded with his cum, painting the walls in his vanilla texture and bringing forth her new favorite/preferred flavor.


    Stephanie laid beneath him, feeling her body utterly ravaged as she sat there while spasming out a climax that left her utterly breathless.


    It was choking, so much so that when Ricky released her pinned hands, she claw away at the cake in her mouth, finding it too hard to even swallow.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    Letting out towering breaths, laying atop that blanket of honey while surrounded by gourmet dessert splattered on them and all around their interaction, they sort of sat there while regaining their breaths.


    Ricky sort of rested her head on her back, chuckling before sitting up while Stephanie still laid motionless on the ground.


    "Shower before bed?" Ricky huffed out, smiling ear to ear as if he was some sort of devil as she slowly turned her face to the side.


    Nodding it up and down on the honey, having little to no strength as Ricky carried her into a princess hold and walked towards the bathroom.


    "Let''s clean up before bed, alright?"


    15 minutes later,


    CLAP


    CLAP


    CLAP


    Pressed up against the glass of the running shower, the sound of Stephanie''s ass checks blaring along with the hot water sounded in the area.


    "Last~"


    "AH~"


    "One~"


    "AH~"


    "I~"


    "AH~"


    "Swear!"


    "AH!"


    Every word was met with an equal and all encompassing moan from Stephanie, until Ricky reached the end of his sentence and sent one last helping into her pussy.


    Feeling a little guilty for suddenly leaving her folds high and dry in the middle of their exchange in place of her ass, he thought he was only right to make it up to her while in the shower.


    Ricky finally finished, this time for real, inside Stephanie deformed and gaping hole that was already tainted by his seed before.


    But, as if she didn''t control the whims of her body anymore, her pussy instinctively responded to his cum with a creaming orgasim of his own.


    HUFF


    HUFF HUFF


    "You''re a demon, a demon~" Stephanie rested her head on the glass door, unable to believe she trusted this animal for a moment.


    "I know, I''m sorry~" Ricky tentatively whispered, picking her back up into a princess carry before making his way towards the bed.


    "But this time, it''s for real."


    DING

 Chapter 148 - 143: Taking Care Of A Problem, Mobster Style

    Chapter 148 - 143: Taking Care Of A Problem, Mobster Style


    [Mission received: Madame St. Clair


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: B


    Description: Stephanie St. Clair aka Madame St. Clair is one of, if not the most, notorious individual in the entirety of Harlem and is well respected. Her underground and activist activities keep her busy which has made relationships almost impossible.


    Objective: Fill her lonely womb with a plentiful serving which will knock her up.


    Main Mission: 100,000 (Completed)


    Missions Received:


    Impregnante Stephanie Once:


    Choose: 200 Gacha or The choice of Madame''s skills


    Impregnate Stephanie Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Cum inside Madame after she bears her soul to you(Complete)


    Reward: Epic Grade skill coupon


    Willingly Impregnate Madame(Complete)


    Reward: +7 Dexterity


    Bonus Missions:


    Take Madame St. Clair''s Anal Virginity


    Reward: Legendary Rank-Up Familiar Coupon ?????????????


    ?????????????


    ?????????????


    HUFF


    HUFF


    Stephanie lay collapsed on his chest, her breath coming in heavy gasps, as filled with exhaustion as her body was filled to her brim with his cum.


    "Another round?" Ricky joked, glancing down at Stephanie''s drenched face as he gently brushed her hair aside to get a better look at her fluttering eyes as they rolled.


    "You''re an animal," Stephanie murmured weakly, pushing at Ricky''s smirking cheek with her limp hand as he caught it, pressing gentle kisses to her palm.


    "I can''t help it; you just rile me up," Ricky laughed, pulling the tired and exhausted Stephanie into his embrace.


    Ricky wrapped his arms around her, gently stroking her hair as she rested her weary head against his chest. They sat there in silence for a while, and Stephanie couldn''t help but feel an aggrieved smile creep onto her face as she pressed her forehead against his pec.


    "Alright, you''re ready," Stephanie suddenly said, looking up at an enthusiastic Ricky who was about to toss her onto her back.


    "T-That''s not what I meant, down boy," Stephanie quickly stopped him, her hand pressing against his chest as he frowned in disappointment.


    "Then what am I ready for?" Ricky asked, clearly not entertained by anything that wouldn''t involve breaking off a piece of this kit kat bar in his arms.


    "Do you remember before you left, asking about some potential boxers?" Stephanie asked, her hands gently traced the lines of his muscles.


    "Yeah, no, why?" Ricky agreed before straight out telling her he didn''t remember at all, completely forgetting about the subject entirely.


    "Listen Ricky, I found this cat down in Mississippi who has the makings to be something great and-"


    "And you want a cut, right?" Ricky kissed her forehead, smiling as she shrugged her slender shoulders, not bothering to deny it.


    "Ten-"


    "Five percent-"


    "Deal," Stephanie chuckled, raising her lips to Ricky, who met them eagerly. They sat there, their lips intertwining in a slow, lingering kiss.


    Eventually, Stephanie broke the kiss, her fingers gently stroking his chin as his smile reflected in her eyes.


    "Now that you''ve already been in my pants, did you mean what you said about-"


    "Yeah." Ricky snuggled into the bed, closing his eyes and promising it without even having to think.


    "But what about if-"


    "I really meant it." Ricky assured with a tired mutter, his hand stroking the back of her still wet hair as she felt extremely calm when those words registered in her ears.


    "What if I end up-"


    Sigh


    "Listen baby, just listen." Ricky sighed, opening his eyes to Stephanie who felt as if she needed to work out some sort of deal, some sort of an arrangement that would work out for the both of them.


    "I''m not scared about anything cause I know ain''t no one gonna rock your world like me." Ricky showed a cheesy smile, arrogantly proclaiming as she inherently let out a small scoff. "But don''t be afraid to lean on me and I know in the past you couldn''t but now, just trust me because I got you." Ricky never really knew how to say what he meant, but it was as if Stephanie knew exactly what he was trying to say and leaned up, kissing his cheek before peacefully resting her head against his chest.


    "Okay, I''ll try."


    Next day,


    Whistling a pleasant tune, Ricky was strolling down Brooklyn with a glow that screamed ''I just got laid suck it''.


    Walking towards Italiano''s, Ricky whistled softly, pushing open the door to face his mountain of paperwork with an egregious sigh. His shoulders slouched as he made his way to a booth and sank into the seat, the brief quiet offering little solace.


    Moments later, the door swung open, and Frank entered, a rolled newspaper in hand. He glanced around before spotting Ricky, already buried in the paperwork and without hesitation, Frank walked over to join him.


    "C''mon Frank, I just got here." Ricky sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose at the guilty Frank who chuckled, strolling over to him.


    "Sorry, Slick, but we''ve got a slight problem," Frank said, handing over the newspaper as Ricky raised a brow, taking it from him and laughing as he read the headline.


    ''PROSECUTOR JAMES MCMANUS HAS CHOICE WORDS FOR RICKY LUCIANO, MORE SPECIFICALLY: THUG!''


    "It''s like Deja vu." Ricky laughed, skimming the words with an increasing smile plastered on his face.


    However, when Ricky looked at the paper, there was no surprise in his eyes as he was already aware of the issue while lounging in his booth within the desolate Italiano''s.


    "This guy can''t be bribed, Slick. We''ve tried, plenty," Frank said, sitting down across from Ricky, watching him put the paper down and meet his gaze.


    After things had just started to settle, with Ricky tightening his grip on New York''s underworld, these people began appearing in droves, yapping incessantly at the surface of the city he owned.


    It was just that James McManus stook out like a sore thumb, the type of guy that could really make others flock to him like birds.


    "What I''m thinking is that you-" Frank had a smile, about to get to the point only for the door to slowly open.


    "Is that trouble brewing I hear?" Elias asked, ever the lurking shadow, slipping into matters that had nothing to do with him as his telepaths followed silently behind him, their presence adding an eerie weight to the room.


    "Ah geez, not this guy," Frank scoffed, turning away as he wiped his mouth, clearly not fond of Elias.


    Putting aside the fact that Elias could speak into his mind, the guy practically screamed bad news in a world where it was always rampant.


    "Oh my, did I stumble in upon a conversation and-"


    Gasp


    "Is this about that fellow James McManus?" Elias poorly hid his intentions, holding his shadowy hands onto his nonexistent cheeks as if he didn''t already know everything.


    Though they had only just settled into the Tri-State area, Elias was already methodically placing his eyes across the city, quietly weaving his influence.


    "If I might be so bold, wouldn''t it be beneficial to finally start your plan of integrating mutants into the family? This could be a perfect opportunity to gain their trust," Elias spoke from the side, his eyes narrowing into crescent moons as Frank scoffed.


    "Listen, Slick, if you pass this off to the mutants, it''ll be seen as favoritism by the guys. Pick a high-ranking officer already in the family." Frank waved Elias off, then turned to Ricky, who wore a pondering expression.


    This was the conundrum Ricky now faced as the new head of the Luciano crime family: the sudden shift in power.


    Traditionally, only pure-blooded Sicilian Italians, vetted by high-ranking members, were allowed within the family. Even then, you had to know someone to get in but Ricky was turning that tradition on its head, making it clear that he intended to pull mutants into the ranks, giving the family an edge over any other crime organization in America.


    The problem, however, remained that if he handed this task to a mutant, the men who had already sacrificed everything and put in countless hours would feel alienated.


    Then there were the mutants, waiting in the wings, seemingly eager to prove themselves to Ricky but the problem was, they were all firmly in the palm of Elias.


    It was essentially planting spies within his own family, and that didn''t sit well with Ricky. This was his empire to control in every aspect, and the thought of giving Elias even the slightest foothold made his skin crawl.


    "Ricky, remember, the one at the top doesn''t have to choose one or the other. If they can make it work, they can have both but one wrong move and that decision will break." Alexander offered, his voice steady as he knew from experience how troublesome it could be to pick one faction over another, especially when both had their merits.


    Snap


    Ricky snapped his fingers, a sudden realization hitting him as he gestured for Frank to come over, and Frank side-eyed Elias, who simply rolled his eyes in response.


    "Well, there''s a lot of guys eager to prove themselves-...but if I had to pick one off the top of my head, it''d have to be Johnny." Frank gave his honest opinion to Ricky, who raised an eyebrow in response.


    "Frank, just give it to me straight, of the guys who are still low-ranking but know the ropes, who''s the most determined, hungry, and loyal?" Ricky asked, his tone focused as he had a semblance of an idea brewing, but first, he needed the right catalyst to make it explode.


    "Well, there''s a lot of guys eager to prove themselves-...but if I had to pick one off the top of my head, it''d have to be Johnny." Frank gave his honest opinion to Ricky, who raised an eyebrow in response.


    "Ezmeraeda''s kid?" Ricky asked, knowing that their live-in maid''s youngest was named Johnny.


    "The kid''s younger than his brothers, who are still enforcers and haven''t even made captain yet, but the kid''s loyalty is above even the guys under me," Frank explained, knowing how fiercely determined Johnny was and Ricky, too, was familiar with the kid, having ordered him around quite a bit during the battle.


    "Originally, his mentor was under Genovese, but the kid used all his strings, not to spare his life, but to honor him by taking him out himself. That''s why he''s kind of lingering around now," Frank ranted, explaining everything Johnny had done for the family, both within its scope and beyond it.


    This went on for a good hour, with Frank almost preaching about Johnny, clearly determined to make his case. The entire reason being that he didn''t want this task going to a mutant, and he was making sure Ricky understood why Johnny was the right choice.


    "Bring him here," Ricky nodded to Frank, who stood up with a smile and as he walked out, Frank flashed a smirk at Elias, clearly enjoying his side being chosen over him.


    "Are you sure that was wise-"


    "I know what I''m doing, just keep your end of the deal," Ricky pointed at Elias, who shook his head before walking away to carry out his report.


    Soon after, a very nervous and anxious Johnny was escorted towards Ricky, who was calmly chowing down on a slice of pizza, his demeanor relaxed despite the tension in the air.


    "Good morning, boss!" Johnny yelled out enthusiastically, almost bowing at a full ninety degrees as Ricky gestured for him to relax.


    "Come and have a slice, I insist," Ricky beckoned, and Johnny nodded, glancing at Frank, who gave him a thumbs-up as he went to sit down next to Ricky.


    "Frank''s been telling me a lot about you, and I gotta say, I''m really impressed," Ricky began, wiping his hands on a napkin while watching Johnny, who nervously took the smallest slice.


    "He says that you''ve not only got potential but also the drive to reach higher within the family," Ricky gestured toward him as Johnny gulped down his mouthful of pizza.


    "Boss, I swear if you give me the opportunity to prove myself I won''t let you down-"


    "Do you mean that?" Ricky''s tone suddenly grew cold, his eyes pulsing green in curiosity, causing Johnny''s entire face to turn pale.


    "Would you really do anything?" Ricky hummed, each syllable making Johnny''s body tremble further as it felt like a weight was pressed on his head, forcing his gaze down.


    Nothing was exerted upon Johnny, but the weight of Ricky''s words made him duck his head as his tone carried a question, probing just how far Johnny was willing to go for him, his boss.


    However, Johnny finally managed to gulp down the lump in his throat as he nervously met Ricky''s intense gaze.


    "Y-Yes?" Johnny stammered, almost asking, as he closed his eyes for a moment before cautiously opening them to see Ricky grabbing another slice of pizza.


    "Good. I need a problem taken care of, and I need it taken care of now," Ricky said, throwing the newspaper in front of Johnny while plastering James'' angry face before him. Johnny quickly swiped it off the table and looked at the headline, his eyes scanning the page with growing tension.


    "The guy''s a prosecutor, and Frank says he can''t be bribed. That means one thing, he''s in the way," Ricky said, pointing at Johnny with a finger gun before pulling the trigger with a playful smirk.


    "Take care of it."


    Meanwhile outside Italiano''s,


    Johnny slowly walked outside the restaurant after the meeting, still in a daze from everything that had just happened. Moments ago, he had been enjoying his morning espresso when Frank suddenly yanked him by the collar and dragged him here and now, with Ricky''s task weighing heavily on his mind, Johnny struggled to process the whirlwind of events.


    It wasn''t fair to say that Johnny was entirely in a grey zone within the family or the doghouse after everything that went down with Genovese. Loyalty was crucial to any organization, whether criminal or legitimate, but politics always played a role in everything. Johnny had burned many bridges by essentially pleading to be the one to take out his mentor, knowing it was the right thing to do. Though his actions were driven by honor, they left him in a precarious position, straddling loyalty and isolation within the family.


    Until Ricky came along and wiped the board, giving him an opportunity that people in the family can only dream of.


    "Listen, Johnny, this is your chance." Frank slung his arm around Johnny''s shoulder, looking up at him as Johnny still held the newspaper in his hands.


    "Slick''s looking for fresh blood, young blood, and he''s handed this to you on a silver platter. You gotta go above and beyond, alright?" Frank patted Johnny''s chest, reassuring him as Johnny nodded, determination settling in his eyes.


    "Aye Frank, thank you so much for everything-"


    "Hey, hey, hey, don''t thank me yet." Frank waved his hand with a smile, gently pushing Johnny forward. "But Johnny." Frank''s words stopped him from taking a step forward as he turned to the old man that had lived the majority of his life in this world.


    "This is your last chance." Frank''s tone shook Johnny to the core as he ducked his head, the old man giving him a look of pity.


    "That stunt you pulled, going behind the noses of some of the capo''s, it f*cked you." Frank shook his head with a heavy sigh, looking at a kid that was everything the family need but making one small mistake.


    "You smoothed it over with some favors, but you shot yourself in the foot." Frank held up a paper bag, Johnny slowly taking it to feel a revolver inside of it.


    "There won''t be anything after this, you mess this up, you''ll never be more than you are right now," Frank essentially told him, making it clear that Johnny couldn''t afford to mess this up or he''d be forever stagnated in place.


    "So take care of this and you can buy me lunch," Frank waved at Johnny, who nodded and started walking toward his car.


    "Remember, Johnny, ya gotta make it look like an accident!" Frank shouted after him as Johnny got in, slamming the door shut. Slowly, Johnny started driving, but soon the weight of the task pressed on him, and he couldn''t take it anymore. It was as if it all hit him at once, suffocating him to the point where he pulled into an alleyway, parking the car and taking a deep breath, trying to clear his mind before the storm ahead.


    It was just too much for him, and he needed to breathe as he let out a shaky exhale as he hit his head on the steering wheel, trying to steady himself.


    It wasn''t far-fetched to say that Johnny had given his entire life, his everything, for the Luciano family. Being the youngest of three of Ezmerelda''s kids, he grew up with a firsthand experience of struggling to make ends meet, always fighting for a place in the world, for a chance to prove himself amidst the older kids.


    He remembered how his father walked out on them, leaving his mother to fend for herself while working three jobs just to put food on the table for him and his brothers. But even that wasn''t enough. Having to watch helplessly, as the mobsters took half her pay for a mere ''protection'' back in Sicily, a cruel reminder of the life they were trapped in, unable to escape.


    His mother would do an honest day''s work, clocking in 56-hour workweeks, only for someone with a crappy attitude and a gun to take half of everything she made. But Johnny didn''t grow to hate mobsters; instead, he learned from them. These events morphed his perception, in a way that he saw that honest work just didn''t pay, not in the world they lived in. However, even with his change of sight, the protection fees only continued to rise, and eventually, to the point where it became so unbearable that they emigrated to America. But even in this new land, the suffering never truly ended. The same shadows loomed, the same struggles persisted, and Johnny realized that the only way out was to get in deep, where power and control could be seized rather than handed over.


    By the time Johnny was six, he was already working the corner, shining shoes for a nickel.


    While other kids laughed and played, Johnny came home every night covered in black smudges, clutching a mere fifteen cents.


    But it was the weight of his mother''s struggles that made him endure, for nothing could weigh heavier than her persistence and no amount of grime on his hands could compare to the burden she carried.


    Then, as if it was out of a fairytale, their life changed in the span of one day.


    It was on that day, when his mother''s life changed, that his own life took a turn as well, having gotten a job as the live-in maid for none other than the mob boss, Lucky Luciano.


    The transformation was like night and day as Johnny watched in awe as his mother, no longer struggling to make ends meet, not only provided for them but could even buy them things. He and his brothers were given toys, better food, nicer clothes, and, for the first time, an actual childhood, all thanks to the Luciano family.


    It was one of the reasons his eldest brothers ended up joining in the first place as they got a taste of what the Luciano family was offering and didn''t want to go back to the hardships they''d known before.


    But Johnny was different.


    It wasn''t that he didn''t want to go back, it''s that he couldn''t.


    His eldest brothers never really had a childhood, too busy helping their mother just to survive.


    But Johnny, he lived through both sides, he experienced the dirt-poor days, but also got a taste of what it was like to be well off.


    Unlike his older brothers, who were already in their teens by the time their lives took a turn, Johnny was still just a kid. He got to experience both sides, the struggle and the sudden shift into something better, allowing him to step into the world with a glimpse of both the darkness and the light.


    His brothers had to live the way they did to escape that life, but Johnny didn''t have to. He had the choice to shape his childhood into something different, something better, and pursue whatever he wanted. But Johnny chose this path. He couldn''t go back to the life of an honest schmuck, working day in and day out like his mother.


    That shift in perception had already taken root within him, testing his resolve with the comfort he once longed for. But that comfort had become repulsive to him. Johnny wanted more, more than a life of simplicity, more than just getting by and it was with that he craved power, status, and the chance to control his own destiny.


    But the only way through the Luciano Family, the only path to climb the ranks in this tightly-knit organization, was through its rules and unwavering loyalty. It was a brutal game, one where only the most committed survived and that''s where he found Gino Vinchenzo, his mentor. Gino wasn''t just any soldier; he was a man handpicked by Lucky Luciano himself after Johnny proved his worth. Gino became more than just a mentor to Johnny, he became a father figure. He taught him every facet of the brutal, intricate world they lived in, guiding him through the twisted corridors of the criminal empire. But it wasn''t just about the jobs or the deals. Gino instilled in him the most important lesson that would shape Johnny''s future as a mobster: loyalty was everything. In this world, loyalty wasn''t just expected, it was demanded and betrayal just wasn''t an option, because once you gave your word, it was your bond, reiterating this sentiment through one saying, over and over again.


    ''There are rules in this line of work, but above all, the boss''s words were always right.''


    Gino''s voice echoed in Johnny''s mind, an unshakable mantra that had shaped his every move since he first stepped into the world of the Luciano family. Those words weren''t just advice, they were law. Gino taught Johnny that no matter the task, no matter the circumstances, the boss''s decisions were absolute. To question the boss was to question the entire foundation of the family, and that was a sin in their world.


    But those same words broke his heart.


    The reason Johnny took Gino''s words so seriously was because, after everything, he loved Gino like a father, and it was because of that the reveal of his true colors really shattered him.


    Gino wasn''t just the mentor he idolized; he was a rat for the government, a turncoat who had betrayed the family. In this world, just like Gino always taught him, once you turned on the family, there was no coming back.


    This sudden realization that Gino had been playing both sides to prop up Genovese really shattered Johnny''s perception of loyalty and trust in a way he couldn''t ignore. Accruing enough favors, enough power, and enough leverage to get a final conversation with Gino, to confront the man who had shaped his early years in the family.


    He called in every favor he had, wiped the slate clean, and set up the meeting. But it wasn''t about helping him; it was about putting a bullet in his head, because those were the boss''s orders, and the boss''s orders were always right. Johnny had fully committed himself to this family, and there was no turning back, that single moment solidifying his resolve into something unshakable, something that wouldn''t let his mentor''s death be in vain.


    So it was why he lifted his head, his eyes burning with determination as he turned the keys in the ignition. Ready to carry out Ricky''s order, he knew deep down that this was the way it had to be. The boss''s orders were always right, and Johnny would follow them without question.


    5 hours later,


    "James hear me out-"


    "No!" James swatted away his colleague, pushing him back as he took a step away.


    "Rich, this is wrong, this entire situation is wrong!" James shouted, his voice rising in frustration as he glared at Richard, who slowly withdrew his hand.


    "James, this isn''t someone who guys like us can mess with-"


    "So what? We''re just going to let it slide, all that destruction he caused, just let it slide!" James yelled, pointing at the window with anger and disbelief, his voice trembling with frustration, his hand gesturing to some of the scorch marks left by the residue of Ricky''s wrath.


    James McManus was a federal prosecutor and one of Dewey''s former colleagues but unlike the others who had been deterred by the example of Dewey''s death, James remained determined.


    What he saw when the Luciano family took over New York wasn''t just crime, it was madness, something that shouldn''t exist, yet there it was, right in front of his eyes.


    The place where he was born, the city he grew up in, burned.


    All because of one man, claiming that the city was his but James would be damned if he let Ricky get away with it.


    "I''m filing the lawsuit tomorrow, whether I get the backing from the guys above or not. I just can''t let it go." James looked at Richard, who held his breath at this death sentence.


    "Don''t you feel the same? Don''t you feel that Ricky Luciano, this self proclaimed hero, needs to be revealed for the monster he really is-"


    "James, I have a family, we all do." Richard gestured around, his eyes flicking to the others who were quietly watching, watching James'' eyes turn to them before they all ducked their heads, hanging them in shame.


    "Aren''t you sacred-"


    "I''m supposed to be someone my son can look up to, not someone he looks down upon." James muttered to himself, his voice thick with emotion. He turned his back on his supposed co-workers, grabbing his briefcase with a sharp motion before storming out of the district office.


    Walking towards the car, James hesitated for a moment, his hand hovering over the ignition as he closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and turned the key. The engine roared to life instead of the explosion he feared, and a sigh of relief escaped his lips.


    But that moment was brief as his gaze hardened, determination flooding back in as he gripped the wheel, preparing for what lay ahead.


    Driving to his house, James noticed a car in the distance, its headlights flickering, steadily tailing him. Unaware, James eventually made his way towards his suburban home, a smile crossing his face despite the tension creeping in as he loosened his tie, eager to see his family, and jingled the keys in his hand.


    As he neared the front door, the weight of the day pressing on his shoulders, a sudden shadow loomed behind him.


    Before he could turn around, he heard the distinct sound of a metal pipe swinging through the air.


    TWACK


    Just as his hand found the key, everything went black as darkness swallowed his senses, his consciousness fading into nothingness. When his eyes finally fluttered open, everything felt surreal as his vision was blurry, hazy, disorienting.


    But eventually, his eyes rose above the tired weights pressed on his eyelids and he saw it.


    His family.


    Tied up with their faces filled with terror, their eyes locked on him, wide with fear and desperation. The sight of their cries wrenched his heart, but before he could react, a drop of blood landed on his face as there was a slight gnash on his head.


    Then, his surroundings suddenly snapped into focus, the reality of the situation sinking in as he tried to move, only to realize he was tightly bound, unable to escape.


    "W-What the hell are you doing?!" James roared, his eyes wide with disbelief as he watched the man behind all of this, watching Johnny turn the stove to its highest setting. Johnny then opened the oven, and a blast of heat surged out, intensifying the already hot area in another surge of heat.


    "I-I''m sorry," Johnny muttered, turning back to face the family as his eyes flickered to the little boy and the mother, both pleading for mercy, but he couldn''t bring himself to meet their gaze.


    In fact, he lowered his head at what he had to do, what had to be done.


    "But I gotta show the boss that I''m willing to do whatever it takes, and go beyond," Johnny said through gritted teeth, his voice thick with emotion. Johnny wasn''t like Ricky, in fact, he wanted to absolutely cry at this moment for what he was about to do.


    But he knew that if he wanted to prove himself to Ricky, he had to surpass even the most gruesome expectations.


    "Y-Your one of Ricky Luciano guys right, listen, just listen-"


    "I''m sorry," Johnny muttered, his voice barely audible as he turned his head, steeling himself as he moved quickly, setting up everything to make it look like an accident. The ropes, he knew, would burn when the fire ignited, just the way it had to look and it all made him take a deep breath, his hands trembling, but there was no turning back now.


    "MY FAMILY, PLEASE-"


    "I''m sorry." Those were all the words Johnny could manage, unable to meet James'' gaze as he began cleaning up his mess. Johnny loosened his collar, the heat becoming almost unbearable but he preserved through his task. James, though, couldn''t keep still while his mind raced, and panic surged through him as he struggled violently against the ropes, desperate to break free, unable to let this happen to his family.


    However, his efforts only seemed to throw off his balance, and he collapsed onto the ground, still tied to the chair. Even then, James continued to struggle fiercely, desperation burning in his chest, but it was no use. His movements were frantic, like a fish out of water, but no matter how hard he fought, the ropes held tight, leaving him helpless.


    Huff


    Huff


    "Why are you doing this? He''s a monster!" James huffed, his voice thick with both rage and desperation, struggling intensely against the ropes. His wife and child sobbed in the corner, their cries echoing in the room as Johnny''s gaze flickered briefly toward them, guilt twisting his insides.


    Bam


    "YOU DON''T KNOW WHAT A REAL MONSTER IS!" Johnny snapped, his voice laced to their brim with anger and pain, his past haunting him with every word and in a burst of frustration, he kicked James in the face, the impact sending a sharp sting through his own chest. Without hesitation, he turned the gas stove higher, the sound of the hissing flame filling the air as the heat in the room grew unbearable.


    "You don''t know what real suffering is! Scraping by for mere pennies of all your hard earned dollars because of the fear, those f*cking horrors that would abduct you into the shadows if you didn''t cough up even half of it!" Johnny''s voice cracked, guilt lining his face as his eyes teared up, fighting to keep going.


    "Ricky Luciano might not be a good person, but he''s fair." Johnny showed his view of Ricky with them, seeing his actions not as righteous but fair.


    Sniff


    "You could''ve lived, you could''ve lived a good life that so many people would kill for, but you got greedy." Johnny resolved, steeling himself with every passing second, bracing himself for what he was about to do.


    "And this is what greedy gets you." Johnny turned away, walking toward the door as James''s eyes widened in realization.


    "PLEASE WAIT I-" James yelled out only for his words to be lodged in his throat, watching Johnny turn back with a single match and speak the two words he always seemed to repeat.


    "I''m sorry."


    The words escaped his mouth as he flicked the match, tossing it into the furnace. Immediately, he bolted out the door, and a tear slipped from James''s eye as he turned back to his family, offering them an assuring smile.


    "It''s going to be okay-"


    BOOM


    The fire erupted like an avalanche, sweeping through the house in an instant, reducing the family of three to charred remnants. The explosion shattered the windows, sending a towering plume of smoke into the air. Johnny was thrown backward, skidding across the road, but he didn''t hesitate and with a grimace of pain, he picked himself up, clutching his shoulder, and limped toward his car.


    The neighbors poured out of their homes, horrified by the devastation in their quiet suburban community. Johnny, his face twisted in anguish, slowly drove away, tears streaming down his face.


    In reality, Johnny was just twenty-one, still a young man with a soft heart, someone who cared deeply for others. The weight of what he had just done tore at his soul, the weight of the realization that he had killed a mother and her son, and the memory of their faces would haunt him forever.


    He wasn''t soulless, he wasn''t unfeeling, he couldn''t separate his emotions for his work, some people couldn''t.


    But even then, through all of it, he followed through, he followed orders.


    Hic


    Sniff


    Johnny rubbed his eyes, his gaze locking with his reflection in the rearview mirror as the sadness hit him like a wave, but he refused to let it consume him. His tears streamed freely, but his resolve remained unshaken as he wiped his face with the back of his hand, the weight of his actions hanging heavy, yet he didn''t falter. His eyes, now steeled with determination, stayed fixed on the road ahead as he had made his choice and there was no turning back now.


    "I''m sorry."


    The Next Morning,


    "Atta boy, Johnny!"


    "That''s how it''s done!"


    "YEAH!"


    The applause erupted from Johnny''s fellow mobsters, all of them gathered in anticipation for a special announcement from Ricky. But before the big reveal, they swarmed around Johnny, clapping him on the back, patting his shoulders, and offering congratulatory words as the buzz in the room was palpable.


    The news had come in the earlier morning, a headline flashing across the city: ''Tragedy Strikes, James McManus'' House Catches Fire Due to Gas Leak; No Survivors Reported.'' The story was clean, neat, and tragic, parading it as a gas leak, an accident. But it was only when the truth came to light within the family, that Johnny had orchestrated the event, that his status soared above that stagnation.


    Now, with this fact clear in the Luciano Family, Johnny had become the residential hotshot.


    However, Johnny looked worn down, dark circles under his eyes, his exhaustion evident as he hadn''t slept a single second all while he stood there, lost in his thoughts, before Frank walked over.


    "Make way, make way, give the kid some space!" Frank shouted, the other recruits flinching and quickly dispersing, leaving Johnny standing alone in the center of the room.


    "Aye, Johnny, you did good." Frank said, his arm draping over Johnny''s shoulder as he gave him a firm pat on the chest. Johnny sniffled, his emotions barely contained beneath his tough exterior as he wiped his eyes at the memory replaying in his mind.


    "That little boy and his mother-"


    "Johnny, listen, words of advice from someone called ''The Exterminator'' within the circle," Frank said as he pulled Johnny aside, his face showing remorse, knowing all too well what it was like to be in his position.


    "I know that at first it''s hard, to close your eyes and not see their faces because trust me, I couldn''t sleep a wink the first time," Frank said, his words sinking deep into Johnny''s thoughts.


    Johnny looked up at him, watching Frank stare into the distance, as the memory of the first innocent he ever killed on a hit flashed before his eyes.


    "People say don''t think about it, but sometimes, out of nowhere, their faces just flash into your mind, and then you''re left reeling with what you''ve done, what you''ve become," Frank said, his gaze drifting to his hands, once soaked in blood which clenched tightly, as if trying to rid himself of the haunting memory.


    "What I do, when I can''t get their faces out of my head, is think of those who mean the most to me, the very same people I''d do anything to make smile," Frank said, his voice steady, yet laced with the weight of his own experience as he turned back to Johnny, whose head was lowered, his body trembling slightly as the words sank in.


    "I think about my darling family, the people I''d do anything, and I mean anything, to make sure they live a life that I never got to," Frank''s words hit Johnny deep, stirring something in him as he slowly lifted his gaze, his eyes now glistening with a mix of pain and understanding.


    "Does it make it go away-"


    "No, it makes it tolerable, it makes you stronger." Frank''s hand shook slightly, patting him before looking to the side.


    "You''re gonna make it, Johnny," Frank''s words hit Johnny with a force he hadn''t expected. His eyes widened, as if a weight had lifted from his chest. For a fleeting moment, he saw Gino in Frank''s smiling expression, the same reassuring look he had once received from his mentor and slowly, Johnny nodded, feeling a little at ease.


    "Thanks Frank-"


    "Yeah, thanks Frank. Can''t believe I overlooked this polished gem," Ricky said, draping his arm over Johnny''s shoulders as he froze at the words, his body tense as Ricky''s laughter echoed in his ears.


    Johnny seemingly didn''t even recognize he was there before slowly turning to Ricky grinning wildly at him.


    "Boo."


    "AH!" Johnny flinched, stepping back as Ricky''s laughter filled the air. His hand instinctively pressed to his chest, trying to steady his racing heart. The other mobsters erupted in laughter, pointing at Johnny, who felt his face flush with embarrassment.


    "Come on, guys, don''t pick on him too much. At least he doesn''t scream like some chick," Ricky joked, his laughter echoing as the others joined in and Johnny, initially tense, let out a deep sigh before cracking a reluctant smile. Slowly, he joined in the laughter, shaking his head at the absurdity of it all as it wasn''t the first time he''d been the punchline, but for some reason, this time it felt a little easier to laugh along.


    "Alright, let''s get to the meeting."


    1 hour later,


    This was one of the initiatives Ricky began implementing in his new position, holding meetings regularly. On the surface, they were framed as Ricky gaining insight into the current state of affairs in the city, but in reality, he had ulterior motives.


    Ricky genuinely wanted to familiarize himself not just with the city, but also with the high-ranking members within the family. They were all Lucky''s men, and Ricky had yet to truly make the family his own as he was focused on understanding how it all worked, trying to get a genuine feel for the dynamics at play.


    Throughout the meeting, the high-ranking mobsters briefed Ricky on the current state of affairs in New York, each update bringing them closer to solidifying their grip on the territory for the family.


    First on the agenda was the progress with the coven, especially after Ricky had handed them control of operations in Staten Island.


    At first, Ricky wanted to give them Long Island but after the entire thing with Profaci, he decided he wanted to one day give it to his and Maria''s son, Carmine Luciano.


    The coven had expressed interest in one of two options: they wanted to remain under the Luciano family''s umbrella, but they also insisted on having their own space to truly establish their influence.


    Ricky was open to this, however, there was one issue that had yet to be resolved as the coven was supposed to send a representative to act as a bridge between their organization and the family.


    This would remain until young witches and warlocks were integrated, alongside either Johnny or Zatanna, to ensure their place within the family''s operations.


    However, Agatha was being incredibly picky, refusing to select any women for the role for obvious reasons and the men had to meet the coven''s strict standards, which had led to an extremely rigorous selection process.


    Until then, Big Tony was handling the operations within Staten Island, temporarily until he could go back to Manhattan.


    "There ain''t no problem with those witches, Slick, it''s just they can''t hold a conversation," Big Tony sighed, rubbing his receding hairline while looking at Ricky, who also let out a frustrated sigh.


    "Tell me about it," Ricky sighed, glancing at Big Tony, who was clearly stressing over the situation, knowing full well how difficult it was to talk to a witch or a warlock.


    "They''re like a bunch of nerds with their heads stuck in books. I mean, one of those elders didn''t even look up from his damn book for the three hours he was supposed to be helping me," Big Tony vented, clearly out of his element as he was trying to make it work because Ricky had personally asked him to handle it, but it was becoming a frustrating mess.


    "Just hang in there a little longer, Tony. Your replacement for looking after the witches will come, and I''ll make sure to reward you personally," Ricky said smoothly, slicking his hair back as he caught Big Tony''s hesitant glance, but the older man nodded, knowing there was no point in arguing.


    "How''s the drug route and the-"


    Cough


    "About that Slick." Little Tony, Big Tony''s older brother, coughed out with slight embarrassment since although this was his field, he was actually struggling.


    "Ever since you got back, the Gurrea family has actually sent word that if the cooperative relationship continues, you need to come back and ''make things right,''" Little Tony said, his hands tied as he spoke directly to Ricky as the other mobsters scoffed, some slamming their fists onto the table in frustration.


    "Who the hell does that beaner think he is?" Mickey ''Mouth'' Tori yelled out, his voice dripping with anger as he directed his frustration toward Juan in a racist way and Ricky raised his hand, signaling for silence before things escalated further.


    "I knew this would happen. Tell him I''ll be there soon," Ricky said, pointing at Little Tony, who gave a slight nod as Mouth shot him an incredulous look, clearly puzzled by Ricky''s calm response.


    "Slick, don''t give into that dirty-"


    "I wouldn''t, but I did kinda sleep with his sister then dip." Ricky leaned back, shrugging as Mouth closed his own before nodding.


    "Alright, that does kinda make sense when you put it like that." Mouth muttered, glancing around as the other mobsters, who shared the same thoughts, nodded in agreement.


    Sigh


    "C''mon Slick, really?" Frank pinched the bridge of his nose, sighing heavily at Ricky who shrugged again.


    "Sorry?"


    "Anyways, I''ve got a special announcement," Ricky said, adjusting his tie as he scanned the room. All eyes turned to him, including the soldiers and enforcers in the back, who straightened up and focused on his every word.


    "I know a lot of you have been wondering about me being the new head and what changes are coming, so let me be the first to say it, the Luciano family will change," Ricky announced, his words making the room fall silent as the family members hung on his every word, waiting for him to elaborate, all eager yet cautious, resisting the urge to jump to conclusions.


    "But that doesn''t mean we''re going to change what the core of the family represents, what each and every one of us represents," Ricky continued and almost immediately, a wave of relieved sighs swept through the room, as many of the mobsters understood that their roles and place in the family weren''t at risk, and they wouldn''t be replaced.


    "I''m not pushing any of our members out, nor will I neglect them like soured milk. I recognize those who prove themselves, just like my pops did." Ricky patted his chest, telling them all that their dedication towards the family would never be pushed aside.


    "That''s why I want to not only recognize someone within the family, but acknowledge their efforts." Ricky then turned towards Johnny, who suddenly paled, realizing that he was barely an enforcer.


    "Johnny, come up here for a second." Ricky gestured towards him, and the high-ranking members all nodded, acknowledging the young Italian man who was finally getting the recognition he deserved, the irony settling in alongside the anticipation.


    "Johnny here cleaned up a budding mess, but not only that, he''s been loyal and, most of all, respectful to the family," Ricky said, patting Johnny''s shoulder with his words making the other members nod in agreement, recognizing that he always played by the rules and never argued with an order.


    "It''s why, here in front of all of you, that I am personally promoting him to Capo," Ricky said with a toothy smile, gesturing towards the high-ranking members who all widened their eyes.


    It was safe to say that it didn''t just catch them off guard, it left them speechless. From what they had heard and had come to believe, thinking Ricky would supposedly promote either a mutant or a witch to Capo first, but instead, he had chosen Johnny. "ATTA BOY!" Frank stood up, his voice booming with pride as he clapped loudly, refusing to let the moment pass without giving it the recognition it deserved. His enthusiasm sparked a ripple through the room, and soon, other members followed suit, their applause filling the air as they acknowledged Johnny''s promotion.


    Some enforcers, feeling a flicker of jealousy for being passed over, exchanged glances but kept their thoughts to themselves. Despite the sting of not being chosen, they found some solace in the fact that it was another Italian being promoted, one of their own. There was a sense of pride in that, a reminder of the loyalty and heritage that tied them all together under the same banner.


    "Come find me later, we need to talk." Ricky whispered while clapping for Johnny, the new Capo nodding as he pushed him forward in the next seconds.


    Then, the others swarmed around him, congratulating him with hearty slaps on the back and words of praise before he was swept up into the celebration.


    Later that night,


    "Boss, you called for me?" Johnny slowly entered the dim and empty Italiano''s. The only light was the lone bulb above Ricky, who was swamped in a mountain of paperwork as he looked up as Johnny stepped in, his expression unreadable and a little scared but for some reason, a tinge of excitement loomed.


    "Yeah Johnny, come over and sit." Ricky gestured, his eyes still glued to the budget for the Cotton Club.


    Johnny, holding his new fedora, walked over with his black trench coat and sat down across from Ricky.


    It was safe to say that Johnny chest was swirling with pride since not only was he the youngest Capo within the family, but he was also the first Cap between him and his brothers who were still soldiers.


    But the biggest reason he was late wasn''t because of getting fitted for a new suit and clothes, it was because his mother couldn''t stop crying, overwhelmed with pride, as she hugged him for the last two hours.


    Now, Johnny was sitting across from Ricky, knowing he had received the approval he needed but feeling an intense desire to go above and beyond. He wasn''t content just with the promotion; he wanted to prove that he was worthy of the responsibility that came with it.


    "As you probably heard from the rumors, I''m going to start not only funneling mutants into the family, but also witches and warlocks," Ricky said, setting down his pen and meeting Johnny''s gaze who was caught off guard by the legitimacy of the rumors, blinking desperately in surprise.


    "Now you''re probably wondering why I promoted you and called you here. It''s because you''re not only the youngest guy to hold these values close to your heart, but you consistently show it," Ricky said, pointing at Johnny, who nodded his head vigorously.


    "But even if we take a different approach in recruiting, I want the core values of the family to remain intact within these new recruits, regardless of how many horns they might have," Ricky continued, trying to make Johnny understand the direction he wanted his era of the Luciano family to take.


    "Now you''re probably wondering why I promoted you and called you here. It''s because you''re not only the youngest guy to hold these values close to your heart, but you consistently show it," Ricky said, pointing at Johnny, who nodded his head vigorously.


    "I need someone like you, someone young enough to relate to the younger guys and kids, but old enough to really get a grip on what it means to be in the Luciano family," Ricky said, propping Johnny up as if he had planned this for a while, rather than making an impromptu decision.


    Ricky wanted to use someone like Johnny, someone he could trust to carry the weight and the values of the family. The thing was, it didn''t necessarily have to be Johnny, it just had to be someone like him.


    "Because your job is going to be the most important for the future of the Luciano family, you''re going to be the first family member to be in charge of mutant runners." Ricky had put a lot of thought into how he would integrate mutants into the family, he saw it as an opportunity to elevate them, pushing them above the current level and building on the strong foundation that Lucky had already set.


    To put it simply, Ricky planned to place young mutant kids under the care of people like Johnny, individuals who were so loyal and committed to the family that their values and tendencies would inevitably rub off on the kids. They would grow up within the Luciano family, learning its ways, before eventually becoming part of it themselves.


    And sure, not all of them would really grow into what Ricky had set out for him, but he only needed a couple.


    A couple of mutants who would grow up in the family under Johnny''s values and mirror them themselves.


    Then, he would, in turn, place them in charge of mutant runners, creating a cycle that would repeat over and over again, building a network of loyal, capable mutants who were deeply ingrained in the Luciano family''s values.


    Ricky was determined to build a crime family on steroids, one that retained all the core values of a traditional mob family, preserving the loyalty that Lucky had worked so hard to establish for the Luciano name, while also wielding a power that ordinary people couldn''t even begin to imagine.


    But Ricky needed to test whether this ambitious plan could actually work. To quell the unease among the high-ranking members who feared being replaced, he promoted Johnny. By putting Johnny in a position of responsibility, Ricky wanted to see if his drive to prove himself, combined with the core values he held, could produce the results he was hoping for. As Johnny''s demeanor shifted into something more serious, Ricky watched closely, ready to assess whether his gamble would pay off.


    If not, he would wipe the board clean and try again, with someone else.


    "This ain''t a game, Johnny. This is gonna happen, and it has to. The Luciano family needs to go to the next level, and I need you to make it happen." Ricky''s gaze was steady, his tone sharp as he locked eyes with Johnny, who nodded vigorously, fully understanding the weight of the task ahead.


    "Any questions?"


    "No boss, if those are your orders, then they are absolute." Johnny thumped his chest with conviction, a fire in his eyes as he steeled himself for the challenge.


    "Alright, soon you''ll be given a bunch of runners, but under the guise that you''ll be in charge of delivering messages, packages, and training the next batch of couriers," Ricky explained, handing Johnny the details of where he needed to report. Johnny took the paper and pressed it close to his heart, almost if it was a symbol of his dedication to the task ahead.


    "I won''t let you down, boss, I promise!" Johnny exclaimed, bowing slightly before hurrying off to start planning what he was going to do.


    "You know what, I kinda like the guy." Ricky chuckled, leaning back as he poured himself a drink, his gaze shifting to Shadow Broker, who was seated right next to Johnny that entire time.


    "What do you think? Do you like him?" Ricky asked, taking a sip as he raised his glass, offering a silent toast to his Stand, which hovered lifelessly in the air.


    "Thought so."


    Meanwhile at Elias new Residence,


    "So he''s finally come around," Elias muttered, setting the note down as he glanced to the side. One of his subordinates nodded in response, understanding the weight of the situation.


    It was then that he opened the door, and a dozen children slowly walked in, lining up before him. They all looked up at him, their eyes filled with a mix of curiosity and caution. Among them, a young boy stood out, his gaze hardened, reflecting the image of Elias within his eyes.


    "Now children, how would you all like to do a favor for me?"

 Chapter 149 - 144: Lucky Incorporated

    Chapter 149 - 144: Lucky Incorporated


    Next Morning,


    "So it''s done?" Ricky asked, glancing at Meyer, who was meticulously reviewing the documents.


    This wasn''t just a typical mafia meeting, it was the beginning of a new cooperation, one that they believed would eventually grip the world in a stranglehold. For now, though, it was known to these few as something else entirely.


    ''Lucky Incorporated''


    Originally Lucky, much like before, protested vehemently against the name, finding it completely embarrassing.


    So Ricky really took his words into consideration and thoughtfully submitted the name behind his back. Ricky had honestly decided to name all his business ventures after Lucky as a form of respect, with the Trust being the sole exception, bearing the name Luciano.


    Everyone in the room would serve as the foundation for the massive corporation it was destined to become in the future. For now, however, it consisted of the following individuals:


    Board Members:


    Lucky Luciano


    Ricky Luciano Meyer Lankey


    Chores Macgillicuddy


    Samuel Frost (Agatha''s Coven)


    CEO: Chores Macgillicuddy


    CTO: Samuel Hawke


    Just A Brief Description: Samuel Frost has become the designated liaison that has been chosen by Agatha and approved by all the elders. He is also the grandson of Cedric Hawke and Seraphina Wren who are one the oldest elders residing on the council. Samuel is a very quiet but firm man who has been working with Chores extensively within the Magical engineering department and has received Chores personal approval as well.


    The other positions were already being filled by some of the more technological members of the coven like the COO, CFO, and along with some high ranking mobsters within the Luciano family including Lil Tony.


    However these were only the positions as the requirements that were needed and paperwork was what really set these back.


    Companies required corporate bylaws, a registered agent, business licenses and permits, a core bank account held at Lucky Legacy Bank, operating agreements, tax registration, insurance, employment agreements, intellectual property protection, and various other arrangements all which were being met.


    But for now, Lucky Incorporated was owned entirely by the Luciano Family Trust. Since private shares were not promised to Chores or those in managerial positions unless the company went public, at which point they would receive shares based on their contributions.


    But those details didn''t concern anyone in the room and with Lucky Legacy Bank approving the low interest loan, the only question that remained was whether the products would fail or succeed in the market.


    "It looks like Lucky Incorporated is in business," Meyer said with a grin, clapping his hands as the others followed suit, applauding the achievement and yet, Ricky remained seated, his posture slightly tense.


    "What about the patents-"


    "All were filed, approved, and are officially under the ownership of Lucky Incorporated," Meyer reassured Ricky, who gave a subtle nod, still processing that he actually made a company.


    Out of all the products and blueprints Ricky had carefully devised, he decided it was best to give Chores some breathing room as he handed him just seven, knowing that overwhelming him would do more harm than good.


    Them being Stainless Steel Insulated Mug, Electric Kettle, Coffee Maker, Steel Refrigerator, Blender, Vacuum Cleaner, and the Wine Cooler.


    There were many reasons Ricky held back from flooding the market with additional products, but the most pressing one was the technology itself. Chores, despite his talents, struggled to develop three key products: the Air Conditioner, Washing Machine, and Stainless Steel Microwave. Each posed unique challenges in terms of design, efficiency, and the integration of the cutting-edge technology that the blueprints had envisioned.


    The technology simply wasn''t there for these advanced products, and Chores would need to dedicate more time to furthering his research and finding viable alternatives. They had poured countless hours into perfecting these items, ensuring that the technology, materials, and cost-effective production methods were optimized. Until then, they had their core products, those that were ready for market and had been meticulously refined by Chores and his team. They had poured countless hours into perfecting these items, ensuring that the technology, materials, and cost-effective production methods were optimized. The result was a lineup of products that promised to deliver significant profit, allowing the company to build a strong foundation as they waited for further advancements in their more ambitious projects.


    So much so that rumors began to fester, whispering through the streets of Staten Island.


    Residents caught faint murmurs of the groundbreaking products that were quietly brewing behind closed doors, stirring a sense of anticipation. The secrecy only added to the intrigue, as people speculated on what the Luciano family might be preparing, something big, something that could reshape the market and put their name in every household.


    "Alright, Chores, you ready?" Ricky asked, rubbing his hands together as he looked at Chores, his gaze steady. His colleagues gathered around, the room thick with anticipation and every eye was on Chores, waiting for him to give the word as it was time for the next phase of the plan to unfold.


    Chores had more or less proven himself to the Coven, earning a place not just as an ally, but as an honorary member of the Magical Engineering Division. Agatha, recognizing his potential, had ordered a sizable portion of the coven to lend their talents, assisting Chores in the production of the groundbreaking items. Together, they worked tirelessly, and soon, the first ever employees of Lucky Incorporated were born.


    It was only a small step and not a complete certainty but under Ricky''s leadership, the future of the Luciano family was no longer just rooted in crime as it was intertwined with innovation, power, and the shifting tides of a world on the brink of change.


    "Yes, Slick, I really think we can do this," Chores said, his voice steady and confident as he gave Ricky a firm nod, a silent promise that the work ahead would be done right.


    "What about you, Sammy? Is the Coven ready?" Ricky asked, leaning his head on his hand while his gaze became steady onto Samuel who adjusted his glasses.


    "Yes, to highlight this we are sending some of the rowdy children who are less enthusiastic about our goals towards your family," Samuel''s eyes gleamed, and Ricky understood as he nodded.


    The purpose of a coven was for a collective of witches and warlocks to unite, offering each other protection, fostering innovation, and creating a shared sense of belonging. But with the protection now provided by the Luciano family, the coven no longer had to dedicate their energy to evading or hiding from witch hunters as this shift allowed them to focus on their craft and goals without the looming threat of being hunted.


    Instead, they were free to function as true harbingers of magic, devoting their time and energy to their studies and advancements. At the end of the day, magic stemmed from the pursuit of knowledge, and these practitioners, despite their power, were all nerds at their core, obsessed with unlocking the secrets of the arcane and pushing the boundaries of their craft.


    But not everyone embraced the change. Some of them found the idea of being holed up in a room surrounded by books, endlessly scribbling arithmetic equations, to be stifling as it wasn''t the life they had imagined when they first delved into magic. That''s where the Luciano family came in, offering a different kind of freedom, a chance to channel their talents into something more tangible, something that promised power, influence, and a purpose beyond the confines of research


    "Good, send ''em over," Ricky nodded, his tone firm but satisfied and Lucky leaned back in his chair with a proud smirk, his posture relaxed as he stood up.


    "How about a celebratory drink to celebrate-"


    "Aye, AYE!" Frank shouted from the front of Italiano''s, his voice cutting through the room as the doors suddenly burst open, drawing everyone''s attention.


    BAM


    "GET ''EM!" Frank roared, prompting several grunts to tackle the two intruders. Chaos suddenly erupted inside the establishment, leaving everyone confused, everyone except Ricky, whose eyes widened in recognition as a familiar face was forced onto the floor.


    "PLEASE, JUST ONE SECOND-" James yelled, only to be cut off as Frank''s fist smashed into his mouth, silencing him instantly.


    "Sorry about that Boss, I''ll take care of this-"


    "Bucky?" Ricky stood up, momentarily thinking his eyes were deceiving him. But as he focused on the familiar face, the memories rushed back. Bucky struggled beneath the weight of a grunt''s hand, pressing his face into the floor, trying to look up despite the force keeping him down.


    "L-Long time no see." Bucky joked, his voice muffled but carrying a hint of humor at the irony of their reunion as Ricky burst out laughing as he quickly waved his hand, signaling the grunts to release Bucky and the other intruder and without hesitation, they stepped back, letting the two men get to their feet.


    "What the hell are you doing here?" Ricky asked, extending a hand to help his old friend up. Bucky accepted the help, dusting himself off and rubbing the back of his neck with a sheepish grin.


    "Geez, I haven''t seen you in f*cking forever." Ricky was a little surprised at his own sight, thinking he''d never see the guy before him again, standing tall above the grown Bucky who had to look up.


    It wasn''t really discussed much, with so many pressing matters at hand, but those growth tonics from the Coven had significantly amplified Ricky''s growth spurt. At 15, he was already 5''11, but now he stood tall at 6''3, on the verge of clearing the next inch.


    Bucky, standing at around 5''10, was momentarily caught off guard by Ricky''s towering height and more solid build before breaking into a smile at his old friend.


    "C''mon, don''t just stand there and gawk, how have you been?" Ricky slapped his shoulder, happily surprised at his sudden arrival.


    "It''s a long story, but if you wouldn''t mind, it''d mean a lot if you heard James out," Bucky said, feeling even more guilty at how he needed to direct the conversation to the side while pointing to James and Ricky raised a brow, curious.


    "You know these guys, Slick?" Frank asked, his gaze steady as James stumbled to his feet.


    "I know Bucky here," Ricky replied, patting Bucky''s shoulder with a smile. "We were in the same orphanage before Lucky took me in." Ricky laughed, slinging his arm around Bucky in a familiar gesture.


    "Come on over here, tell me what I can do for you," Ricky said, patting his chest and guiding Bucky to the side. "Wait, I''m here for James, and if you remember, he''s the guy who fended off those bullies who chased us from the baseball field all the way back," Bucky said, not wanting to leave James behind and the latter, still holding his face, flinched before nodding his head.


    "Oh, yeah, hey, come on over too." Ricky didn''t remember this guy, but he simply nodded and beckoned him over as Lucky made room in the booth.


    Samuel and Chores took the opportunity, quietly moving to the booth nearest to them, making space for the two new arrivals.


    "Man, it''s been what, eight years?" Ricky asked, eyeing Bucky, who nodded with a nostalgic smile.


    "Almost nine." Bucky sheepishly chuckled, feeling incredibly awkward as the mobsters with cigars in their hands all gazed down at him.


    "So what have you been up to, are you all squared away or?" Ricky asked, reaching into his coat about to pull out some money only for Bucky to shake his head.


    "I''m doing good, I got an apprenticeship at a mechanic shop and an apartment that I rent with Steve," Bucky informed Ricky, rubbing the back of his neck at the later part of his sentence.


    "Don''t tell me wonderboy is still mad." Ricky laughed in nostalgia, a little surprised he remembered the nickname but Bucky ducked his head.


    Sigh


    "Yeah, he''s still the old stubborn Steve," Bucky laughed, sharing a moment with Ricky before his attention shifted to James, who was visibly shrinking under the cold stares from Lucky and Meyer.


    "Alright, Bucky, I made you promise all those years ago that if you ever needed something, you''d come to me. So, what can I do for you?" Ricky recalled, looking at his old friend while raising his cigar and with it, Bucky hesitated, glancing over at James before meeting his gaze once more.


    "James, your turn," Bucky whispered, nudging him with his elbow and James coughed awkwardly, hesitating before finally speaking up.


    "I-I work at the steel factory, Sheffield''s Steel f-f-f-f-factory and I-I-I-I-" James literally couldn''t even spit out the words, stuttering through the nonsense that stumbled out of his mouth.


    "Kid, just spit it out," Lucky grumbled, rolling his eyes in impatience, eager for James to get to the point.


    "Seriously, time is money, kid. Stop wasting it," Meyer warned, his tone sharp, as Ricky crossed his arms and nodded in agreement.


    "Seriously man, if you have something to say, then f*cking say it." Ricky frowned, side-eyeing Bucky who forced a smile at his met gaze.


    "T-The steel mill is closing!" James shouted, finally cutting to the chase and it made Ricky glance at Lucky, then back at James, his expression hardening as the weight of the words sank in.


    "And?" Ricky asked, a hint of confusion in his tone as if this fact was obvious which Bucky quickly picked up on this. "You knew about this?" Bucky asked, his voice laced with surprise, as if he couldn''t believe Ricky had kept such a thing hidden. The tension in the air broke as the others around them burst into laughter as even Chores started cackling from the side.


    "Kid, we''re in the business of knowing things," Lucky chuckled, wiping a tear from his eye as if the whole ordeal had been a poorly kept secret. "They''re moving to Pittsburgh, right?" Lucky asked, glancing over at Meyer. Meyer took a moment to think it over before giving a slow nod while Ricky leaned on his hand, raising an eyebrow.


    "Don''t tell me you came here to tell us that, Bucky, please." Ricky sighed, clearly frustrated, as he leaned back in his chair. He glanced at Bucky, then back at James, who had shrunk into himself, with any bravado he might have had completely drained as he seemed like he could barely summon the courage to speak.


    "Ricky, I know you don''t owe us, or anyone, anything, but could you really just hear me out?" Bucky''s voice carried a hint of desperation as he locked eyes with him as Ricky simply gestured to him, giving him the floor.


    "Hit me with it."


    "Buy the steel mills-"


    SNORT


    Lucky was the first to laugh, his snort echoing in the room with it making Ricky follow, his laughter booming, joined quickly by Meyer, whose face was turning red with how hard he was laughing. James, on the other hand, was visibly shrinking into himself, almost on the verge of tears as he shifted uncomfortably. Bucky, perplexed, ducked his head, his brows furrowed in confusion, unsure of what was so funny.


    "Buy the Steffield-HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Lucky wanted to repeat his words, only to laugh out loud and interrupt himself.


    This went on for a good, exhausting five minutes, the laughter echoing through the room, before Ricky finally wiped a tear from his eye and looked at Bucky with a smile.


    "Listen Bucky, you don''t know this but the Steffied family f*cking hates us, like really hates us." Ricky chuckled, explaining that although they were laughing at him, that it had more layers to it like some sort of onion.


    "But looking past that, why would my household appliance company want a f*cking steel mill?" Ricky asked, trying not to laugh right in Bucky''s face since the idea was absurd.


    "Ricky, that mill supplies the jobs of over 20,000 people, they''ll all lose their jobs and-"


    SIGH


    "And like I said, why would I buy it?" Ricky asked with a sigh, his gaze steady on Bucky, who was still struggling to find a reason that would make sense. "To save their jobs-"


    "James, buddy, they get it." Bucky gently stopped him, seeing the desperation in James''s eyes as he looked at Ricky before ducking his head.


    "And?" Ricky continued, uttering one word and interrupting Bucky while looking around, feeling like some sort of cartoon villain.


    "T-They are gonna close down the steel-"


    "James, buddy, they get it." Bucky gently stopped him, seeing the desperation in James''s eyes as he looked at Ricky before ducking his head.


    "Listen, Bucky, is it?" Meyer leaned forward, and Ricky leaned back, already anticipating that the accountant was about to unload some chagrin.


    "It''s actually more cost-effective if Lucky Incorporated doesn''t own a factory yet and instead outsources the manufacturing," Meyer explained, making it clear that buying the factory wasn''t beneficial in the least.


    "The biggest problem is that the Sheffield Steel mill, a mill that was built to produce steel, was not made to produce appliance parts-"


    "But can''t you just-"


    "Kid, a steel mill''s entire purpose is to produce steel, it is a completely different process and requires completely different factory machines than a production company would need," Meyer tried to explain to Bucky, who felt as if he was shrinking before him.


    "The Sheffield Steel Mill is a sunk cost, something that would need to be entirely stripped down to its bare bones, which is the factory itself, offload and sell the machines, then buy all the required machines to produce the parts needed, and finally get a steady stream of materials to make those parts," Meyer''s words towered over Bucky, who looked up at him as Ricky shook his head.


    "Basically Bucky, he''s saying that it''s a waste of money-"


    "Ricky, please." Bucky suddenly interrupted him, looking at him earnestly, knowing it was a lot of work, but the only person he believed could do anything about it was sitting right in front of him.


    "I know it is shallow, coming here after not speaking for eight years and asking for something completely outrageous." Bucky voice shook, his hands gripping his pants as they shook slightly.


    "But this 20,000 jobs, Ricky, half of Brooklyn works at that mill, and every single one of those workers lives in a borough here, please." Bucky was practically pleading, the desperation in his voice clear. He knew how much this could mean for all the blue-collar workers, like himself, who depended on that mill for their livelihood.


    Sigh


    Ricky sighed and looked at Lucky, who remained silent, his gaze fixed on him as if expecting Ricky to make the decision alone, without a single word of advice.


    "How much is it?" Ricky asked, his voice steady, as everyone around him sighed, exchanging looks as if he was crazy for even considering it.


    However, even if it was only for a short time, even if he didn''t remember much of his time in the orphanage, there was one thing Ricky would never forget. He remembered the moment when he was beaten and left in an alley, how Bucky and Steve had carried him to the nearest hospital. Ricky never forgot that act of kindness, and no matter how much he tried to deny it, he owed Bucky but James, sitting next to him, ducked his head, because he wasn''t owed jack sh*t.


    But this wasn''t just any steel mill; this was one of the largest in America and despite the recent job cuts during the Depression, which had reduced the workforce to 20,000, hiring was picking back up as the economy began to recover. Slowly but surely, America was healing from the scars of the Great Depression, and although the growth was modest at first, there was a sense of optimism returning to the country''s industrial heart.


    "They wanna offload it and scrap it for parts, so, maybe eight, maybe ten million-" Meyer gave a general outline, including the past relationship Ricky had with the Steffield family, knowing that it would have to be at least this much.


    "Jesus." Lucky couldn''t help but drop his jaw, his disbelief palpable. Frank immediately stepped up, his anger evident.


    "Just say the word, boss, and they''re gone." Frank''s tone was sharp, his hands clenched, clearly furious that anyone had the audacity to ask for something so outrageous.


    "Slick, the investment wouldn''t be worth it as I''ve set up meetings with other factories for parts-" Meyer quickly tried to interject as Ricky crossed his arms, closing his eyes before looking back up at Bucky.


    "I''ll think about it, Bucky, I really will." Ricky stood up, cutting off Meyer mid-sentence, who looked as though he might tear his hair out in frustration.


    It was such an outrageous sum, but there was a reason Ricky was actually confident, unlike his family, and that reason was Cardinal Sebastian.


    Flashback To Chapter 124 "It concerns your inheritance, more specifically, what you are set to receive now that you''ve become the sole heir to the Black Knight family." Cardinal Sebastion notified Ricky, currently still in his trial state of mind.


    "Oh cool, am I a little richer?" Ricky asked, already suspecting that he would get something for being the sole heir of the Percival family legacy.


    "Ricky, the Bank Of The Vatican isn''t as simple as that-" Cardinal Sebastion sighed heavily, explaining to Ricky since it was important.


    What makes the Vatican so powerful and influential isn''t merely the holy and religious power that resides within its depths, but its financial power. More specifically, the Vatican is its own separate country with its own distinct rules and also possesses its own private bank.


    This was another instance of a butterfly flapping its wings due to the cause of Ricky''s presence.


    Originally, Pope Pius had established the Vatican Bank in 1942, but because of Dracula''s continuous night raids and efforts to destroy him, the Vatican''s financial situation had become perilous.


    In 1933, the Church had shrunk to minuscule operations as when Mussolini acknowledged them as a country, he did so without recognizing the Papal States.


    Furthermore, the Vatican was incurring annual losses of 100 million lire a year, and the Great Depression had caused its asset portfolio to shrink by 30%. However, Pope Pius''s close aide, Bernardino Magaro, had convinced him not only to establish the bank but also to expedite the process.


    It was why, with everything that happened, 1933-1934 was declared a holy year, allowing the Vatican to finally stabilize. But what made the Vatican Bank so influential, and its most valuable asset, stemmed from a few key factors.


    The most important factor being that they had unprecedented financial freedom, meaning they didn''t have to disclose much about the comings and goings of their finances. Furthermore, the Vatican State is completely immune to extradition and has the authority to dictate its own laws.


    It was because of this that they could hide all of their income sources and how much they truly owned but more importantly, they could conceal the Black Knight''s assets. Being the Black Knight not only allowed Ricky to inherit the Ebony Blade but also all the assets tied to it. However, the most valuable asset wasn''t just the tangible wealth, it was the asset of association.


    The value of the Black Knight''s assets was akin to that of the church''s holdings in real estate. Ricky actually owned four mansions in Scandinavia and two in Britain, but with only around a million in actual currency, except, not really. Since Ricky didn''t have to divulge his accounts or disclose the extent of his wealth, he could literally pull ten gold bars out of nowhere and, as an honorary Bishop of the Vatican, claim they came from the bank. With his position and the Vatican''s immunity, no one could question it, everyone would be forced to accept his word. The Vatican''s financial flexibility allowed him to manipulate and maneuver assets in a way few could even imagine.


    In short, the Vatican''s financial power allows Ricky, as the Black Knight and an honorary Bishop, to operate with almost no oversight. He can claim ownership of massive assets, including real estate and wealth, all under the umbrella of the Vatican''s finances. Because the Vatican''s financial dealings are shrouded in secrecy, and Ricky''s position grants him near-complete autonomy within their system, he has the ability to move mountains of wealth with little to no accountability.


    But if this couldn''t get any better, any juicer, as an honorary Bishop and part of the Vatican''s financial structure, Ricky falls outside the typical taxation rules due to the Vatican''s status as an independent state. The Vatican is not subject to the same taxes that other countries impose, and its financial dealings are not required to be disclosed publicly. To put it entirely bluntly, the church''s financial activities are often shielded by its status and legal immunities, which means Ricky could exploit this system without the usual concerns about taxation.


    That meant, in essence, the money Ricky has been collecting, including Rockefeller''s, would effectively be cleaned through this system. So basically, Ricky has unknowingly stumbled upon an unlimited laundering machine that prints out big ''f*ck you''s'' to anyone who says otherwise.


    "Are you f*cking kidding me?!" Ricky laughed out, gazing incredulously at Cardinal Sebastion who flinched at his words.


    "Child, language." Cardinal Sebastion reprimanded him as he was surprised by his sudden vulgar words.


    "I know what you might be thinking, but although I am against the notion of using it as a shield, the church is all but desperate for funds and we would like to ask you for donations." Cardinal Sebastion ducked his head in shame, having been forced to tell Ricky this since Pope Pius was intent on this being worded in this shameful way.


    BAM


    Suddenly, ten gold bars slapped onto the ground before Cardinal Sebastion who widened his eyes in shock.


    "Ha, that Pope is something." Ricky knew exactly what Pope Pius wanted and simply gave him a little donation to show he would relent if he didn''t ask where he got the funds.


    "T-This-"


    "It''s something I got after expelling the mob families back in Sicily, take it to that Pope and Cardinal." Ricky waved at Cardinal Sebastion, clearly intent on exploiting this system to its fullest.


    "Thank you." Ricky smiled warmly, radiating this bright expression towards Cardinal Sebastion who completely mistook this expression as him wanting to support the church.


    "No child, thank you."


    END OF FLASHBACK


    "Let''s set this aside for now and grab a drink, for old time''s sake." Ricky stood up abruptly, turning to the others and about to give them a raincheck.


    "I''ll catch up with all of you later-"


    "We get it already, go." Lucky waved him off, and Ricky laughed, slinging his arm around Bucky''s shoulder.


    "You too, James." Ricky yanked James''s collar, the poor man still frozen in place as they walked out of Italiano''s.


    "Lucky, it''s just not a good idea-"


    "No, it could be an investment." Lucky pulled out a cigar, waving it in Meyer''s direction as Chores peeked his head over the booth.


    "May I contribute to this conversation?" Chores suddenly asked, Lucky and Meyer looking at him but shrugging and gesturing.


    Chores stood up, towering over Frank, who flinched, momentarily forgetting just how imposing Chores really was before he settled back into the booth.


    "I agree with Lucky, but I don''t think it would be an investment in terms of monetary value," Chores explained, offering his perspective as Lucky raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his take.


    "I don''t understand, it''s a sunk cost-" Meyer, thinking of it more from a money sort of view, couldn''t see where Chores was going with this.


    "But it''s about loyalty." Chores interrupted, his opinion catching Meyer off guard and Lucky''s interest.


    "I know that inside this bubble, everyone really goes along with the Luciano family, but the impressions on the outskirts of Brooklyn and other boroughs are very low," Chores continued, his voice carrying the weight of reality that others often ignored.


    "The extermination of the other families not only let the Luciano family gain enormous reign over the people, but it caused unease and fear," Chores explained, simply telling him his observations with a detached calmness.


    "I understand that fear is necessary in this line of work, but outside of Harlem and the inner regions of Brooklyn, everyone loathes Slick." Chores continued, his tone steady and serious as he looked around the room.


    "I see it first hand in Staten Island, the discourse that makes many residents unsettled." Chores revealed, causing Frank to scrunch his brow at someone daring to hate Ricky behind his back.


    "Franky, what the guy is saying is that it forms a sense of loyalty that will build across the working class, the blue-collar workers and in that sense, their families and everyone around them." Lucky said, puffing out a stream of smoke from his cigar as he glanced at Chores.


    "But how is a factory gonna help people like him, we''re mobsters, they don''t have to like us but they better respect us-" Frank asked, unable to really see that big picture but this was where Lucky chimed in.


    "Franky, what the guy is saying is that it forms a sense of loyalty that will build across the working class, the blue-collar workers and in that sense, their families and everyone around them." Lucky said, puffing out a stream of smoke from his cigar as he glanced at Chores.


    "I understand that it would be an enormous investment, but having 20,000 people feel like they owe Slick might be worth it in the future," Chores finished explaining. Lucky looked at the door Ricky had left through before leaning back, deep in thought.


    "Well, that''s something the boss needs to decide."


    Meanwhile At A Bar,


    "Ah~" Ricky let out a refreshed sigh, setting down his mug filled with beer and looking at Bucky, who was wiping his mouth.


    "Enough of the money talk, tell me what you''ve been up to, how you''ve been?" Ricky nudged Bucky, drawing a chuckle from his old friend.


    "Well, nothing much but after you left I just sort of-"


    Bucky continued, recounting the events that followed his departure as he and Steve had grown up with a relatively normal childhood, the kind that didn''t stand out in the grand scheme of things. But where Steve had shown a certain aptitude for academics, Bucky had always been the type to lose himself in the physical world, more comfortable working with his hands than his mind and school had never really been his thing to begin with.


    Steve, on the other hand, had always been more thoughtful, and it was during those formative years that a certain teacher, Edna Crosley, had played a pivotal role in shaping him. Bucky described how Crosley''s influence had awakened something in Steve, a sense of responsibility and a desire to protect those around him, making him more of a patriot.


    The changes in Steve weren''t immediately noticeable to most, but Bucky could see the subtle shift in him. He noticed how much that teacher, Edna Crosley, had impacted Steve, even if it was hard for him to admit it. It wasn''t just the lessons in the classroom, but the way Steve seemed to carry a new sense of purpose, a quiet strength that Bucky recognized but didn''t fully understand at the time.


    After high school, their paths had naturally diverged and Bucky, true to his nature, became an apprentice mechanic, reveling in the satisfaction of fixing and repairing cars. It was hands-on work, and it suited him perfectly as he really loved the challenge of bringing machines back to life, feeling at home in the grease and oil, where he could see immediate results from his effort.


    Steve, on the other hand, took a more traditional route as he worked part-time at a local soda shop to help pay his way through college. He wasn''t one for mechanics or manual labor like Bucky, but he was dedicated to his studies, warning to join the government or become a police officer.


    "I''m just learning the ropes, but I want to open my own shop one day," Bucky said with a chuckle, not fully believing in the dream himself as he felt it paled in comparison to Ricky''s world, but he just smiled, unbothered by the disparity.


    "Can I get a friend''s discount?" Ricky teased, nudging Bucky with a grin and the latter chuckled, shaking his head.


    "Just for you, Ricky, I''ll make you pay 15% more," Bucky joked, and they both laughed, the sound fading as they turned their attention forward.


    The silence settled in, and Bucky held his mug of beer, his fingers wrapping around the cool glass as he paused, staring into the amber liquid before finally opening his mouth to speak.


    "Ricky, Listen, I''m sorry I never came to see-"


    "Bucky, come on, don''t be like that." Ricky scoffed, pushing Bucky in a playful way to make him stop, looking at the bar mirror at the side and seeing a clear look of guilt on his face. Unlike Steve or Ricky, two polar opposites with clear views, goals, and dreams, Bucky simply wanted to enjoy the things around him.


    He didn''t want to be rich or become the strongest, hell, he didn''t even want to be the best mechanic.


    Bucky simply wanted to live a good fulfilling life and have the people around him enjoy it to the fullest, he wanted to enjoy life.


    However unlike Ricky who was adopted into a household with a good strong family and a father who guided him, Bucky and Steve remained unadopted.


    It was why Bucky never took Ricky''s offer, because Steve didn''t have anyone and Bucky wanted to be there for him.


    But Ricky never blamed or resented him for staying behind since at the end of the day, Bucky was his own person who made his own decisions and he had learned to respect that.


    "I know why you didn''t come and I get it, from your view my actions look very scummy." Ricky sighed, setting the mug of beer down and looking forward as Bucky ducked his head.


    "But I''m not gonna hate you cause you think in a different way, because who cares." Ricky joked, looking forward since this was what he honestly believed.


    There were way too many philosophies and beliefs in the world to care about a single one and Ricky, he was the type to go with the flow.


    It was cut and dry to him; if it made sense to him, then it made sense and if it didn''t, then it didn''t.


    Ricky couldn''t care less what other people thought as long as they didn''t try to force their beliefs onto him or get in his way, then it might get a little physical.


    "Listen Bucky, believe it or not but everyone usually doesn''t like me." Ricky turned to Bucky, receiving a light chuckle from him.


    "I know, hard to believe since I look like every other lovable schmuck, but people really hate me," Ricky continued, shaking his head as if it was actually hard to believe.


    "But just cause they don''t like me doesn''t mean I''m gonna come after them and their families, I''m not some psycho." Ricky shrugged, knowing that if he went after everyone who disliked him then everyone in New York might cease to exist.


    "I move down my line just like any other guy. My only problem is when people get in my way." Ricky held out his hand, drawing a line onto the bar counter with some peanut shells.


    "Even when people try to shame me or push their beliefs onto me, I couldn''t give a single f*ck unless they step on my line." Ricky then pointed onto the faint line, pressing onto it as if showing Bucky first hand.


    "But no offense, Bucky, even if you wanted to, you couldn''t step on that line. So, you shouldn''t feel like I''d hate you or something." Ricky waved his hand, dismissing the idea that he was even a threat to him.


    Ricky looked at Bucky, and he saw was a high school graduate, an apprentice mechanic, while Ricky was the head of the Luciano family, a world far beyond the one Bucky inhabited.


    "Well, when you put it like that, I guess I feel a whole lot better," Bucky rolled his eyes, his tone playful and Ricky laughed, nudging him in return.


    "Anyways-ah!" Bucky was about to say something else, only to recoil in surprise at a bird flying past him and landing on the counter.


    "We have arrived!" Alexander proclaimed, holding up his fury paw as Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "What are you guys doing here?" Ricky asked, knowing he didn''t call for them as Chester fiddled with the translation ring on his claw.


    "Did Chores not tell you, I am the new CLO (Chief Legal Officer) of Lucky Incorporated." Chester started talking and his words made Bucky freeze, almost pale as his finger pointed at the crow talking in front of him.


    "T-That bird is talking!" Bucky stuttered, his eyes widening as Chester side-eyed him.


    "I have a name, human." Chester turned to Bucky, holding out his wing towards the fearful human since this was common for him.


    "I am Chester, nice to meet you." Chester, leaving so much out of his introduction, introduced himself to Bucky who looked at Ricky who gestured him towards the wing.


    "Don''t be a dick, shake his wing." Ricky, completely enjoying the scene, urged him on as Bucky weirdly shook Chester''s wing.


    "But wait, does that mean-"


    "Yes, I have passed the New York State bar." Chester already anticipated, finishing Ricky''s words as he scrunched his brows.


    "How in the hell did you manage that?" Ricky almost had to ask, finding it hard to believe they would let Chester take the bar.


    "Lucky has formed an identity for me and so to the bar association, I am Chester Crowsworth, age 38, and a white male." Chester revealed his concocted identity as Ricky side-eyed Alexander who shook his head.


    "I have already voiced my complaints, but my friend here is determined on that poor last name-"


    "It is not ''poor'' it signifies what I am and brings recognition to my species." Chest said, voicing how much he actually liked this name.


    "Well whatever, congratulations Chester Crowsworth." Ricky obviously poked fun at Chester who raised his head in a dignified way.


    "Thank you." Chester then flapped away, clearly knowing it was a joke but wouldn''t give Ricky the satisfaction of showing a reaction.


    "What about you?" Ricky looked at Alexander, already munching on a peanut and shrugged.


    "I am not one for a tedious job, I do not need to prove myself, I am Alexander The Great." Alexander boldly proclaimed, already proving himself in history and having no such desire to make another name for himself.


    "You wanna get drunk with me?" Ricky asked, seeing Alexander nod his head while munching on a peanut.


    "I am inclined to accept." Alexander then stood up, looking at Bucky simply staring at the gerbil.


    "May I?" Alexander asked, holding out his fury paw and Ricky, side-eyeing Bucky, took off his translation ring and handed it to the gerbil.


    Popping it around his body like some sort of belt, he stood before Bucky and puffed out his chest.


    "I am Alexander the Great, from the banks of the Aegean to the distant lands of India, my name has been whispered in awe and fear. I have defeated armies twice my size, shattered the power of the Persian Empire, and built an empire that spans from the Mediterranean to the farthest reaches of Asia. With the strength of my will and the sharpness of my sword, I have rewritten history, and it is with all of this, that it is nice to meet you." Alexander almost had to make it a grand spectacle, Ricky simply drinking his beer while Bucky watched incredulously through it all.


    "I-I''m Bucky, a mechanic." Bucky stuck to a short greeting, looking at Alexander holding out his paw for a hand shake as he stuck out his finger, shaking the tiny paw slightly.


    "It is nice to meet you, Bucky The Mechanic." Alexander smiled, looking at his disciples'' old friend he had heard in passing.


    "I-"


    BAM


    "DAMMIT!" A man shouted, bursting open the door of the bar as a shuttle of blue-collar workers all shuffled in.


    It wasn''t unusual for these workers to come to their favorite bars after a hard day of work, it was just that they came at the end of the day rather than the middle of it.


    "Dad?" James, who was meekly sitting next to Ricky and trying to just go with this weird flow, turned back to see his father amidst this shuttle of workers.


    "James, what-where the hell were you!" Herold marched over to his unruly son, the very same one that had been acting weird as of late.


    "You damned brat, you not only missed a day of pay but the news that the-"


    Gulp


    Herold furiously tried to lecture his son until Ricky swiveled around in his bar stool, holding his mug of beer and curiously observing the exchange.


    "M-Mr. Luciano." Herold immediately bowed his head, knowing exactly who this man was since for a while, you couldn''t go an entire day without seeing his smug smile in the paper.


    The other blue-collared workers, all furious at the news that hit them today, all suddenly tucked their tails in the face of Ricky.


    "Just call me Slick, my pops is the real Mr. Luciano." Ricky chuckled, placing his mug of beer over the counter and refilling it himself while the bartender felt a little out of place.


    "Did my boy cause you any trouble because I know he''s a little rough around the edges but please-"


    "Nah, it ain''t like that." Ricky shook his head, revealing the mug all the way until the foam was puffing up before turning around.


    "I used to play ball with James a while back, we ran into each other along with my buddy here Bucky, and now we''re just catching up." Ricky waved his hand, dissuading any misunderstandings right here as Herold slowly nodded.


    "But I''m guessing you guys heard about the mill?" Ricky asked, sipping on the mug as the workers who showed gazes of despair.


    "They just said it outta nowhere, blabbing on about how this was for the good of the company, but what about us, what about the guys who risk their lives for their profit!" One of the workers got really emotional, almost screaming in anguish while his buddies patted his back.


    "I-I''m sorry-" The worker immediately reprimanded himself but Ricky shook his head, stopping him there.


    "Y''know what, aye bartender, they drink for free, put it on my tab." Ricky side-eyed the bartender who immediately nodded, the workers all surprised at this sudden announcement.


    "Aye, you didn''t do anything wrong so don''t apologize, to no one." Ricky raised his mug to him, receiving a nod from the disparaging worker.


    "Y''know what, aye bartender, they drink for free, put it on my tab." Ricky side-eyed the bartender who immediately nodded, the workers all surprised at this sudden announcement.


    "Oh Slick, you don''t have to-" Herold immediately held his hat tightly, trying to stop Ricky but he shrugged.


    "You guys got enough on your plate and it''s cause of guys like you that I''m where I am, so just take the beer and bar snacks." Ricky honestly said, knowing that mobsters all profited off the backs of honest hardworking schmucks.


    "Least I can do." Ricky turned back to the bartender, who immediately understood and started grabbing the mugs of beer.


    "Thanks, Slick, the guys really need this." Herald knew more than anyone how tight money was at this time and even the change of a few drinks was a lot to people like them.


    It was awkward at first, considering the man who had forced them all to lock themselves away not long ago and caused such a disruptive turf war was now sitting in the same bar as them.


    But once the alcohol began to flow, even the worst of enemies started to lighten up, as the atmosphere shifted into a bumbling buzz of cheerfulness.


    At first, it was just James and Bucky around Ricky, but as if he had some sort of gravitational pull, the more he talked and laughed, the more it drew in the eyes, ears, and eventually the bodies of the other workers. Before long, Ricky found himself surrounded at the bar, the center of attention.


    "So this horse walks into a bar and the bartender asks ''why the long face?'' and the horse replies ''because I''m an alcoholic and it''s destroying my family''" Ricky laughed through the joke and at this point, these drunken workers would laugh at anything.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Everyone bellowed out an entire avalanche of laughter, breaking down in tears as Bucky, almost sh*t faced, slammed his face on the table.


    "Alright, alright!" Ricky suddenly stood up, holding up his hands while hopping onto the bar counter and grabbing the beer nozzle.


    "WHO WANTS TO SEE ME DRINK THIS BAR DRY!" Ricky yelled, hearing the cheers of the workers before placing his mouth under the beer nozzle and turning it on.


    GULP


    "CHUG!"


    GULP


    "CHUG!"


    GULP


    "CHUG!"


    GULP


    Ricky had an incredibly high tolerance compared to these average joes, not even feeling buzzed by the handful of beers he downed.


    So as he drained the barrels of this german luger dry, the bartender was left scrambling to replace the booze until Ricky manifest destined his words.


    BURP


    "FCK YEAH, FCK YEAH!" Ricky, after completely drinking the beer behind the counter, celebrated this fact while the other workers cheered.


    "BARTENDER, MORE BEER!" Ricky yelled, Alexander wobbling from the side while holding up his paw.


    "HAZZAY!" Alexander bellowed, his presence not even shocking the others as they all were just going with the flow at this point.


    "I-I''m sorry Slick, but you''ve cleaned us out-"


    "THEN ON TO THE NEXT, LET US WINE AND DINE ON MY DIME!" Ricky, really feeling the effects of that German luger, was starting to talk in a medieval sort of way that he always did whenever he drank this type of alcohol.


    Clearing out of the bar and wobbling after Ricky, the blue-collar workers along with Bucky all started to follow in the impromptu beer crawl.


    It was around only two dozen at first, Ricky leading the pack of incredibly drunk men as they drifted over to the nearest bar until they were soon met with the same scene.


    Factory workers all down on their luck and simply trying to find any sort of escape were met with the arrival of Ricky.


    Soon, that two dozen grew as Ricky''s boisterous proclamation of paying for the bar tab continued onto this bar, then the next.


    It was then that the bar crawl was truly born. At first, it was a few hesitant workers, glancing at each other before joining in, lured by the promise of free beer and the opportunity to forget, even if just for a few hours, the disappointing reality that weighed on their shoulders. As Ricky''s laughter grew louder and his charm grew stronger, more and more followed his lead, each one gravitating toward him like moths to a flame.


    The atmosphere shifted as more bodies crowded around the bar, the clink of bottles and the murmur of conversation filling the air. It was no longer just a casual drink among friends; it was a way out, an escape, a rebellion against the world outside. Ricky, always the life of the party, led the charge, his words slurring with each drink, the laughter flowing as easily as the alcohol.


    As the night wore on, the workers lost their inhibitions, one by one and they stopped caring about the looming debts, the hours of labor, the uncertainty of their futures. It was a blur of half-formed jokes, spilled drinks, and reckless abandon while Ricky had become this weird sort of symbol of defiance, not just in the power he wielded but in his ability to push aside everything that weighed them down, if only for a fleeting moment.


    The bar crawl turned into something much more than a night of drinking; it was a fleeting reprieve, a chance for these hard working men to feel alive again without having to worry about anything, if only for a few hours. And Ricky, already lost in his own drunken haze, slowly reveled in that fact as it was starting to get to his knightly head, with every drink inducing a reckless decision.


    Then, after being at what seemed like the hundredth bar, the entire place was crowded as the workers stretched all the way onto the streets.


    Ricky had lost count of how many people''s tab he was paying for but at this point, he was so rich that he just didn''t care.


    What was the point of having fck you money if you never say fck you?


    That was his drunken motto that he used to convince himself of anything that might bring him anxiety.


    "EVERYONE, HEED MY WORDS FOR THOU MUST SPEAK!" Ricky roared, holding up his mug of beer as a drunken Bucky sort of wobbled in from the side, almost entirely sh*t faced.


    "HEED THEM!" Alexander yelled, his voice booming as he encouraged Ricky''s words, though his gaze was fixed on the wall, more specifically, a picture on the wall as the drunken hamster was more gone than anyone else in the room


    The workers, their spirits battered by the news of the mill closing, couldn''t help but be swept up in the energy of the bar crawl. What started as a casual distraction had quickly grown into something near legendary, a feat of indulgence funded by Ricky''s endless flow of cash. His generosity seemingly felt as if it stretched across the entire laid off workforce, and in return, they clung to him with admiration and gratitude, following his lead as he led them through each round of drinks.


    Ricky, holding up a massive jug of beer with a grin plastered on his face, was the center of their attention. His laugh echoed through the room, infectious and full of life and Bucky, ever the responsible one, even his drunken state, was trying his best to pull Ricky down from his self-appointed pedestal, but it was no use.


    Ricky was too far gone, too caught up in the chaos to be reined in as the workers looked on, their focus unwavering, as Ricky continued to hold court, an unlikely king in the midst of their collective misery.


    "I HAVE RECEIVED MANY COMPLAINTS AS YOUR PATRON, ABOUT HOW YOUR WORK IS BEING DULLED BY GREED AND BY THOSE SCUMMY PROFITEERS WHO THINK OF THEMSELVES AS LORDY!" Ricky''s words were weird, medieval almost, but the men were all too drunk to care as they all gathered around him while nodding their heads.


    "AND YOU MUST KNOW OF ME, RICKY LUCIANO, SON OF LUCKY LUCIANO!" Ricky proclaimed, his weird words immediately making Bucky''s stomach feel queasy.


    "Ricky get down-"


    "IT IS BECAUSE OF THESE CREDENTIALS, THESE TITLES, AND THE WEALTH OF MY NAME THAT I PROCLAIM TO YOU NOT AS YOUR PATRON, BUT YOUR SAVIOR!" Ricky was a couple weeks sober on reckless decisions, but right here and now, he was about to relapse.


    "RICK-" Bucky immediately yelled, knowing that a responsible friend would stop what he was about to do even if he actually wanted him to say it.


    But even if he wanted Ricky to buy the mill, to have his next words hopefully confirm, he was the type of friend to put others interests over his which is why he was trying to pull Ricky off the counter.


    It was just that his strength paled in comparison to Ricky who didn''t even notice the tugging of his clothes.


    "I SHALL BUY THE STEEL MILL UNDER LUCKY INCORPORATED BUT NOT ONLY THAT, VOW SOMETHING TO THE DEPTHS OF MY CORE!" Ricky held his heart, completely unaware of what reason and common sense was at this moment, since all he cared about was hearing the roar of applause, just for him, only for him.


    "I VOW TO EMPLOY 50,000 WORKERS!" Ricky roared, his voice booming through the haze of drunken laughter and the heavy scent of beer. His words were nothing more than a blur of wild ambition and chaotic confidence, but in that moment, they felt like a declaration from a man who believed he could conquer the world. His ravings, filled with this sort of raw energy, ignited a fire in the hearts of the workers around him.


    Cheers erupted from the crowd, their spirits lifted by the absurdity of it all as in that dimly lit bar, surrounded by the remnants of their shattered reality, they clung to the possibility that someone, anyone, could offer them a lifeline, they now unknowingly clung to Ricky.


    "RICKY!"


    "RICKY!"


    "RICKY!"


    Ricky''s face was alight with drunken excitement, his arms spread wide as if he were embracing the mass congregation of drunken men who were chanting his name with fervor. The cheers swirled around him, echoing off the bar''s walls, a cacophony of admiration fueled by his wild proclamations. Each cheer felt like a personal triumph to Ricky, as though he was a king being crowned by the very people he had helped to lift, however fleetingly.


    Bucky, on the other hand, was pale, his brow furrowed in disbelief as he watched the madness unfold before him. James and his father stood frozen to the side, their faces a mix of shock and confusion, not sure whether to laugh or intervene.


    But then, amidst the madness, Alexander, grinning like a proud beast, raised his mighty paw into the air, joining the celebration with a roar that almost drowned out the cheers. But it was the actions of that wild night that would go on to become legendary. What started as an absurdly drunken vow in a run-down bar would spawn a festival in New York that commemorated not only the outrageous decree but the extraordinary beer crawl that had led to it. Dubbed ''Beer Fest,'' it would become a yearly tradition, celebrating the moment, the camaraderie, and the unpredictable power of Ricky Luciano, a man who, in his drunken folly, had brought the impossible to life.


    "HAZZAY!"

 Chapter 150: Chapter 145: Three, The Lucky Number

Chapter 150: Chapter 145: Three, The Lucky Number


    ?

 Chapter 151: Chapter 146: Just One Little Secret

    Chapter 151: Chapter 146: Just One Little Secret


    ?


    1 hour later,


    "Talk about fancy." Ricky whistled, rubbing his chin as his gaze drifted at the residence before him.


    Nestled in the upscale New York suburb of Tuxedo Park stood a tall and brimming mansion, a sprawling masterpiece, that stood atop a gentle hill, framed by meticulously manicured gardens that screamed old money and refined taste.


    A long cobblestone driveway, lined with ancient oaks, led up to the grand house, its facade gleaming in the afternoon sun.


    The exterior was a harmonious blend of cream-colored limestone and ornate carvings, with tall, symmetrical windows that reflected the lush greenery around it.


    A pair of Corinthian columns flanked the oversized mahogany front doors, which were adorned with intricate brass knockers shaped like lions'' heads.


    Ricky had assumed he''d need a pass or something, as Gino had mentioned, but it was clear they were already expecting him as he just walked through the front gate.


    ''I wonder if he''s still salty.'' Ricky pondered, recognizing how vastly different this meeting was from the last.


    ''Eh, let''s just find out.'' Ricky thought, shrugging as he pushed open the gate and strolled inside.


    Eyes immediately fixed on him, tracking his every step as he calmly approached the grand double doors.


    Ricky didn''t even need to knock as the doors parted slowly, as if at his command, revealing a butler standing poised before him.


    "Master Sheffield is expecting you," the butler said with a curt bow, gesturing behind him and Ricky raised an eyebrow but stepped inside nonetheless.


    "Pretty swanky. Man, I need to get my own butler one day, that''s when I''ll know I''ve made it," Ricky said aloud as the butler remained silent, acknowledging his words with a small, polite nod.


    His foot graced onto the marble floor that was cool and smooth to the touch, inlaid with an intricate mosaic of swirling patterns in gold and deep green, catching the light in such a way that it just made the colors seem almost alive.


    Directly ahead, your eyes would be drawn to the grand staircase, an architectural marvel that curved gracefully upwards.


    Its banister, crafted from dark oak with brass accents, gleamed warmly under the glow of a crystal chandelier suspended high above.


    The chandelier, an elaborate cascade of diamonds and cut glass, the crowning achievement of this house sparkled brilliantly, sending flecks of light dancing across the walls.


    "This way." The butler guided Ricky''s gaze, walking him over to the living room with emerald-green armchairs and a deep, inviting sofa arranged around a grand marble fireplace. "Ah, if it isn''t Ricky Luciano." A man, oldened since the last time he had seen him, smiled as he crossed his legs while setting down his drink.


    This man, Harry Sheffield, was currently at the pinnacle of his career in the steel industry.


    However beyond this confident smile, this confident demeanor, was a struggle that had caused this scenario in the first place.


    He had become a leader known for his exceptional expertise and innovative contributions.


    However, his rise to the top was not without its challenges, especially as he found himself grappling with the intense competition from the massive steel corporations and other industry players.


    Despite his reputation for producing high-quality, specialized steel products, Harry faced constant pressure from the industrial giants who controlled vast resources, production facilities, and distribution networks.


    The steel corporations such as U.S. Steel, Bethlehem Steel, and Krupp AG, dominated the global market with their ability to mass-produce steel at lower costs.


    These corporations benefited from economies of scale, cutting-edge technology, and powerful financial backing, which made it difficult for smaller, more specialized producers like Harry Sheffield to keep up.


    While Harry was known for his innovations in steel quality, such as pioneering stronger, more durable alloys used in critical applications like aircraft and military hardware, he just struggled to match the profits that the giants were generating through sheer volume and cheaper price.


    The larger companies could afford to undercut his prices, using their vast production capacities to sell at a rate that made it hard for Harry''s company to remain competitive without sacrificing quality.


    It wasn''t more so that he was proud of his quality, but it was his pride that wouldn''t let him diminish it.


    It was a stance that made him feel superior to the other steel giants, as their quality couldn''t to his and he reveled in that fact.


    But Harry also faced intense financial pressure as the demand for high-end steel products wasn''t always consistent, and his focus on quality over quantity meant that his production rates were slower and less predictable.


    The Great Depression had a ripple effect on all industries, making it even harder for independent producers to survive, as many companies went bankrupt or were swallowed up by the larger conglomerates.


    In his desperation to stand among the top players in the steel industry, Harry Sheffield had made a decision that would define his legacy, for better or worse.


    Although New York offered proximity to major markets, along with construction and shipping industries, and even though he was moving to a city already enshrouded in Steel, Harry needed to take a chance.


    What truly set Pittsburgh apart was its proximity to the natural resources essential for the


    industry.


    It was nestled right next to an abundant amount of coal and iron ore deposits while also cutting transportation costs for raw materials.


    Beyond resources, Pittsburgh provided financial relief through lower operating costs that Harry so desperately needed to compete.


    Wages, real estate, and taxes were way more affordable than in New York, but what made it so appealing was its deeply rooted industrial ecosystem.


    The city thrived on a symbiotic network of industries and suppliers, creating an environment where steel operations could seamlessly integrate and flourish.


    Finally, Pittsburgh''s transportation networks sealed the deal with its extensive railways and access to the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers.


    However, now standing before the man willing to gamble everything on the promise of elevating himself, Ricky found himself faced with a dilemma.


    "So, you want my steel mill?"


    The problem was that Sheffield knew exactly what he wanted, understood why he needed it, and wasn''t about to make it even remotely easy to attain.


    "I wonder what you thought, what rattled around in that empty skull of yours, to even remotely think that I would ever think about giving my mill to you after what you did." Harry laughed in Ricky''s face, covering his mouth as the mere thought of this man, actually coming to him with his hat in hand, after everything he did, gave him such unparalleled joy that nothing could describe.


    "I mean, if anything, this is a gift served up on a silver platter by my esteemed butler," Harry laughed, waving the butler off as he bowed and walked away, leaving Ricky to glance to the


    side.


    "Are you done-"


    "I just cannot BELIEVE that, after everything, EVERYTHING, you''d say something so idiotic and think I wouldn''t let you fall flat on your face," Harry cackled, his laugh echoing through the room all while Ricky just sat in the chair before him, slouching slightly, his posture betraying his disinterest.


    "You know, I''ve heard the tales spun by the sheep on the street," Harry said, spreading his hands and waving his fingers in the air as if conjuring something dazzling.


    "How you mercilessly slaughter those who stand against you, while showering those around you with jewels of promises that lie in the wake of your ambition," Harry continued, his tone dripping with mock admiration.


    "And the feats, oh my god, how they never shut up about your achievements, as if no other man had ever walked the path before you," Harry added, his voice thick with sarcasm while shaking his head, a stream of laughter directed solely towards him.


    "Truly, TRULY, remarkably disappointing if they found out the real you." Harry emphasized his words, gesturing towards Ricky who he thought nothing more than a sleazy degenerate.


    "So, Ricky Luciano, what are you going to say that would without a doubt, not change my


    mind-"


    "I know that Ruth was knocked up and you sent her away," Ricky said, dropping the card without hesitation as he didn''t bother with subtle hints or games and instead, went straight


    to the point.


    Thump


    The glass Harry had been about to pick up slipped from his hand and shattered on the floor as he paused, a sharp retort ready on his tongue, but it faltered as his mouth snapped shut. Although the rumor in high school about Ruth sleeping around had been spread by Ricky, it never amounted to more than gossip since he hid it quite well.


    But this was, if not the family''s best, well guarded secrets that only direct relatives knew the real reason, while distant associates were told she''d gone to study abroad.


    It was a horrifying sec one that threatened to unravel his reput on and yet, as the weight


    of it settled, his composure quickly returned as e bent down, silently reaching for the


    shattered glass.


    "I have no idea-"


    "Ruth, was sent away to a secluded mansion in Iowa to raise her son, Logan, effectively exiling her from the family. Her relatives were determined to keep the family''s reputation intact, refusing to allow a bastard to carry their name. As a result, Logan was given the surname Roy, a stark reminder of his mother''s estrangement." Ricky lazily read off the system panel, each word he listed off effectively shutting Harry''s mouth until it looked as if


    he was choking on a lemon.


    "Yeah, how''s that for convincing?" Ricky reached over to the table, grabbing the crystal glass that held the expensive whiskey and pouring himself a drink with two ice cubes.


    "Did I fall flat on my face or press the right spot?" Ricky raised his eyebrow, taking a sip and leaning back as Harry was a little speechless.


    "It is literally impossible for you to know, literally impossible." Harry literally couldn''t believe what he was hearing, staggering over how in any realm could he possibly know about it and yet, here he was, sipping on his whiskey without a care in the world. "Yeah, well, I figured it out, and now I''m using it against you, so that''s all that matters,"


    Ricky said, pointing his finger at Harry as he ignored the dazed look on his face, casually glancing to the side.


    Ricky glanced around at the lavish decor that surrounded him, an embodiment of this wicked family''s ideal, an image of nobility crafted not by virtue, but by their wealth.


    But when Ricky looked at Harry, when he scanned the room, all he saw was a wealthy,


    successful man, nothing more.


    He wasn''t taking away from what he had done, achieved for himself, but he wouldn''t admire


    him for his feats either.


    How many people, how many beings, had he encountered who possessed as much, if not


    more, than Harry?


    It was strange, almost amusing, how once Ricky had viewed Harry as a formidable figure,


    someone to be cautious of, to tread lightly around, but now, he simply gazed at him, indifferent.


    Gazing at the ordinary man he was, because without the wealth that clung to him, Harry was


    nothing in Ricky''s eyes.


    "Are you going to say something, anything?" Ricky asked, swirling the ice cubes around his drink as the power dynamic had been flipped over on its head, in almost an instant.


    "Like some stupidly snobbish rambling about the sheep talking about my achievements? No?" Ricky asked once more, seemingly giving Harry the floor and a chance to say something, anything, to stop the hellfire he was about to bring down on this man.


    "Yeah, I figured as much," Ricky sighed, leaning his head on his hand as he stared at Harry, who was squinting at him in response.


    When Ricky entered his house, his domain, Harry held the complete advantage.


    He knew exactly what he wanted, why he wanted it, and what it would take to get it.


    Harry was ready to load it over Ricky, to rub it in his face and watch him squirm, all while holding that ideal of a factory just out of his reach.


    But in a sudden twist, the tables were turned and the playing field leveled as Ricky unveiled a secret, one that could unravel the very foundation of Harry''s carefully built reputation. "Alright, now that you''re in that mood of thinking to yourself how I even know, let''s start the


    negotiations." Ricky cocked up a smile, returning the mocking expression back at Henry who was a little infuriated at it.


    "I''m going to pay you 1 million dollars, and with it, I get the land rights, the factory rights, all the machinery, and the employee contracts, including full control over their terms and conditions." Ricky pointed Harry''s own glass at him, almost ordering out his requests.


    "You can''t have the machinery-"


    "Shut up, I''m not finished," Ricky said, holding up his hand, laughing at Harry, who gritted his teeth as his fingernails dug into the emerald chair.


    "When you agree to this, you''ll come out and stand before the public, advocate for me, and


    make up some bullsh*t about how I''m the saint you heard about in the whispers of the sheep


    around you." Ricky words sprinkled salt on the wound, before rubbing it in and making Harry tremble within his seat.


    "Then, and only then, will I sign an NDA saying that I won''t reveal your family''s dirty little secret, before you pack up your sh*t and go to Pittsburgh, never to come back to my city,"


    Ricky finished, giving the floor to Harry, who was holding his face as if it could somehow cling to a sliver of hope. "One million isn''t enough, I need ten to twenty million-"


    "You''re not getting a single cent more, the only reason I''m giving you this much is because it


    would raise eyebrows that would annoy me later on down the line." Ricky waved his words away, dismissing him without a thought and giving him this much only because it would be annoying to have Franklin come knocking at his door.


    "But how could you explain to me selling all of that, all of this, for a single million?!" Harry


    let out a baffled exhale, gesturing towards the outside world while looking at Ricky who


    shrugged.


    "Obviously because of charity, I don''t know, make up some sob story about how you-"


    "Five million, and I''ll give you my consideration," Harry countered, his serious demeanor overshadowing everything about him previously.


    The business world, which Ricky would come to realize, wasn''t as clean-cut or straightforward as one on the outside thought.


    It wasn''t about who had the best product or the most innovative ideas; it was about who held


    the dirt, who could sway the bustling tides of sheep, who could manipulate the shadows, and who was willing to pay the price to keep their own buried secrets from surfacing. Deals weren''t always made based on logic or fairness, but on leverage, on what a person could


    hide or expose. Those who played the game well knew how to use others'' vulnerabilities as stepping stones to


    climb higher, and that included using their own flaws as shields or weapons when necessary.


    The system was designed around this unspoken rule: everyone had something to hide. And in the midst of it all, the winners were those who could turn secrets into power. For Harry, this tribe and truth had finally come full circle as the one who held his dirty little


    secret wasn''t his own subconscious, but Ricky.


    "You see this, see how my hands are forming." Ricky gripped his fist tightly together,


    showing it to Harry who felt uneasy at the demonstration.


    "Right now, my hands are gripping you by the f*cking balls, and because of it, any ballsy


    ideas or words should be kept to yourself." Ricky held the balled up fist to Harry, the dignified man watching it with widened eyes as he involuntarily gulped. "We could''ve had a nice negotiation, one where I got what I wanted and you kept your


    dignity, but we''re far past that now." Ricky''s voice was resolute, making it clear that he wasn''t going to give Harry anything unless it was mere scraps.


    "The only shred of hope you have is that I don''t put these balls in a fcking jar above my fireplace


    and look at it while I mindfck your entire business into oblivion in front of it." Ricky laughed at his own words, blatantly threatening Harry to his face without any shred of remorse. "So sign the transfer rights, take your one million dollars, and get the f*ck out of my city." Ricky released his hands, his metaphorical balls dropping as Harry gripped his pant legs. "If you think this is over-" Harry stood up only for Ricky to meet his stride with one of his


    own, towering over this little man without any restraint.


    "Oh, I f*cking dare you."


    HUFF


    A green aura suddenly flooded into the room, pressing down onto Harry as his body crumbled


    under the sheer weight of Ricky, now standing above him, gazing down at him if he wasn''t anything other than the dirt and grime that stained the bottom of his shoes.


    "I dare you to do something stupid, because there''s nothing I enjoy more than ruining the


    people who get in my way." Ricky bent down, his entire body radiating with the oppressive aura of his sovereign will.


    "You spit in my hand when I reached out, I offered you a good deal which kept that ugly secret


    buried and you think, you actually think, that you have the power here." Ricky bent down, his green eyes staring directly at this man struggling to get to even his own knees.


    "I can ruin you Harry and sure, you''ll be rich, but what''s wealth without respect, what''s


    power without respect?" Ricky grabbed his head, pressing it down onto the ground beneath his very feet.


    "Nothing for people like you."


    Ricky then let go, dispelling his aura as he watched Harry slowly regain his breath, his body


    trembling.


    "S-So you''ll sign an NDA-"


    "Do you really want me to sign one?" Ricky asked, interrupting him while smiling ear to ear.


    "Yes I -"


    "Like, really, really want me to sign one?" Ricky interrupted him again, wondering how bad


    he wanted him to sign that NDA as Harry''s fist balled.


    "Yes, I really do-"


    SNORT


    Ricky actually snorted out in laughter, looking at Harry wobbling to his feet as if the sight,


    mixed with his words, weren''t the funniest things he had ever heard.


    "Well, I changed my mind." Ricky shrugged, shamelessly changing the deal right when Henry


    thought it was over.


    "But you said-"


    "Yeah, I know, I lied." Ricky laughed, watching Henry crumble at his words since he only gave


    him that sliver of hope, to crush it right before him then stomp on it.


    "Oh, come on, you said it yourself, that you knew what kind of man I am. So why would I ever


    give you something favorable when I have this much dirt on you?" Ricky genuinely asked,


    gesturing toward him as if he should''ve known better.


    "Oh no Harry, you''re gonna be my b*tch." Ricky laughed even harder, watching Harry try to


    not pale at his words.


    "I-I''m Harry Stefiied-"


    "The ashamed father who let his daughter have a child out of wedlock, I can only imagine the headlines I''ll print about you." Ricky spread his hands in front of Harry, almost as if envisioning the scandal for him. "But you know me, the loud mouth who just spouts whatever on his mind, f*ck, I might just


    go do it now-" Ricky turned around only for Henry to instinctively bolt forward, grabbing


    Ricky''s suit as he ducked his head.


    Harry was someone who thrived on reputation and quality; the very deterioration of it would


    be the ruin of the man he believed himself to be.


    "I-I''ll do it, I''ll take the deal-"


    "Of course you will, of course." Ricky wouldn''t even give him the satisfaction of agreeing,


    patting his cheek as if it was his only option.


    "And remember, Henry, when you stand before the public, really go in-depth about how


    much you respect me. Spill some chagrin about me being a man of God or whatever, just make me look peachy perfect." Ricky chuckled, pushing Henry away from him as he stumbled


    backward while walking out of the living room.


    "Don''t get in my way, Harry. I mean it, I''ll f*cking crush you." Ricky kicked open the doors of


    his house, striding out toward the car waiting patiently for him. Ricky couldn''t help but laugh at the absurdity of it all, laugh at how Harry, a man who had spent decades building a steel empire, was now willing to compromise everything he had worked for his reputation, his livelihood all because of a rumor, because of one secret. The fact that his daughter had a child out of wedlock was the nail in the coffin, something so trivial in the grand scheme of things, yet it had the power to topple his world. Harry''s desperation to save face, to protect his social standing, was almost comical to Ricky.


    What Ricky was peeking into, though, was the real engine of the world of the rich; a world


    built on appearances and status rather than substance.


    The values that governed that world were all about protecting one''s image, maintaining the fac?ade of control, and ensuring that no one saw the cracks beneath the surface. In this world, pride and power came not from actual success, but from the illusion of success


    and keeping up appearances meant everything, even if it meant selling your soul. Ricky got his first taste of this fact, about how the upper classes weren''t just motivated by


    money, though that was certainly a big part of it.


    They were motivated by the need to maintain their status, to keep up with the ever-shifting game of social dominance.


    This wasn''t just about wealth; it was about control.


    And control meant not allowing anything, no matter how minor, to threaten the polished


    image they projected.


    Harry''s willingness to let go of his entire factory for the sake of protecting his family''s reputation was a textbook example of the kind of cowardice that ran rampant in this world.


    It was a world where people didn''t want to face the consequences of their actions; they just


    wanted to cover them up.


    Ricky found it hilarious, almost pitiful, that a rumor, something so easily disproved or dismissed, had the power to destroy Harry''s reputation, not even his steel empire. But it was a lesson, one that Ricky was learning firsthand: in the world of the rich, everything


    could be bought, but nothing was ever truly safe.


    It wasn''t about what you had, it was about what others thought you had, and how far you


    were willing to go to protect that, no matter the cost.


    In Ricky''s mind, this made the world of the rich seem weak but it also made it clear that, in


    this game, knowing the right weaknesses and when to exploit them was what made you


    strong.


    But Ricky had more important things on his mind, unraveling a slip of paper that was


    previously tucked away in his pocket that had an address and a picture. "Here, go to this address." Ricky handed the slip of paper to his driver, who nodded and


    turned the car to the left instead of right.


    Meanwhile, Ricky rubbed his thumb over the image, an image of a woman and a little girl as


    the picture revealed itself, it became clear: it was Irene.


    ''What have you been up to, Irene?''


    Meanwhile In Upstate New York,


    A beautiful redheaded woman walked toward a man holding a menu, dressed in a waitress


    uniform with an apron stained by the grease of the diner and showed a warm smile to the


    customer.


    "Welcome to Joe''s Diner, what can Joe get just for you?" Author''s Note: Yo, I know i ussually I read the comments and reply to them but I''ve been f*cking busy lately. I kind of feel bad cause I always make time to look over them but my god, I opened them up and say there was over 350 just on the paragraph ones alone. But don''t get me wrong guys, I f*cking apperciate you guys interacting with my story and I don''t want this to adhere you all from commentings, It''s just gonna take me a while to respond to all of them, anyways enjoy the chap.

 Chapter 152: Chapter 147: Irene Jenkins

    152  Chapter 147: Irene Jenkins


    "Welcome to Joe''s Diner, what can Joe get just for you?" Irene asked with a warm smile, giving her customer the certified Joe''s wink.


    Life for Irene wasn''t anything like she had imagined when she first stepped off the train at Grand Central Terminal. The roaring city of New York, its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, was a world apart from the quiet Southern town where she had spent her entire life. She had arrived with little more than a barely zipped suitcase and a head full of big dreams, that longed to carve out a future in the neon lights adorning Broadway.


    But her arrival in this great city was solely dedicated to her upbringing, which had been defined by strict boundaries and unwavering discipline. Irene was raised in a deeply christian, conservative household and had grown up under the strict, watchful eyes of her parents, who expected nothing less than perfection in both her character and her actions. Her father was a pastor, instilling the disciplines of the lord onto her from a young age and her mother, a dutiful housewife, someone who instilled the beliefs of being prim and proper at every occasion. But above all, they had made it abundantly clear that Irene''s path in life was to remain pure, humble, and obedient.


    But how could Irene''s spirit settle for something like that?


    She had spent her teenage years buried in books, using education as her only escape because for people like her, the ones with only dreams to cling onto, sacrifices needed to be made in order to achieve them.


    By the dim light of a single oil lamp, she would pore over borrowed textbooks and handwritten notes, her delicate hands smeared with ink as she wrote late into the night. No one, not even her own parents, believed her diligence would stem into anything more than what she could give to God and family, but Irene''s motives were far more rebellious. She saw education as a way out, a way to break free from a life that felt stifling, small, and suffocating.


    The longing for freedom wasn''t just academic, though. In the quiet hours of the night, Irene wrestled with a nagging ache, one to rejoice in the world beyond the walls of her room and experience the world her classmates at the one-room schoolhouse seemed to know so well. In school, they would whisper about dances in the barn, the thrill of sneaking a swig of moonshine without their parents knowing, and the dizzying rush of stolen kisses beneath the stars. However, for Irene, all these tales were glimpses into a forbidden world, one she had no place in. Her parents would never allow her to attend such gatherings, so she had tucked away her curiosity and doubled down on her studies.


    But when that letter of acceptance came from a prestigious university in New York City, Irene''s heart nearly stopped. Not only had she been admitted, but she had been awarded a full scholarship and for a moment, she couldn''t breathe, her hands trembling as she reread the words over and over again. This was it, her escape.


    That was, until she met Ricky.


    It was just one wild night, just a momentary escape from the pressures of her studies and the upcoming exams. Ricky, with his charming grin and this confidence that was so unabashed, embodied everything her parents had never allowed herself to want. That night was filled with firsts: her first taste of real freedom, her first sip of whiskey from a stranger''s flask, her first dance that wasn''t carefully choreographed by the church youth group. Then, the biggest first of all, losing her virginity with the dim light of a city in the far away background that seemed alive and indifferent all at once.


    It wasn''t love, not even close, but it was thrilling. For a brief moment, she had tasted a life far removed from the one her parents had carefully constructed for her and yet, when the thrill faded and the city''s noise quieted, reality crept in.


    A couple of months later, Irene''s world was turned upside down as she was late. Days turned into weeks of anxiety until she couldn''t avoid the truth any longer. A doctor confirmed her fears: she was pregnant. The revelation hit her like a runaway train, threatening to derail the life she had fought so hard to build. She sat in her tiny dorm room for hours, staring at her textbooks and lecture notes, the walls closing in as the weight of the situation pressed down on her but no words registered within her hollow eyes.


    The thought of giving her child away so she could stay in school was unbearable, yet the idea of keeping the baby seemed just as impossible. It was because of this reason, this decision, that she would sit on the steps of the college, hand resting on her growing stomach, tears slipping silently down her face as she watched her classmates rush past, books in hand, their futures ahead of them. Irene felt trapped, torn between the life she had dreamed of and the life now growing inside her.


    The decision to leave college wasn''t made lightly since she had worked so hard to get there, sacrificed so much, and now it was all slipping through her fingers. But she couldn''t balance the demands of her classes with the reality of her pregnancy. But she just couldn''t part with the life growing in her stomach, that piece of her, her child.


    It was why she packed her belongings and boarded a train back home, leaving behind the city and the dreams she had once chased so fiercely.


    When she arrived at her parents'' house, she hoped for sympathy, or at least understanding.


    Instead, she was met with cold stares and judgmental whispers as her mother''s lips pursed in disapproval, and her father''s frown deepened with every word she said. They were appalled that their daughter,a girl they had raised to be virtuous and god-fearing, was now carrying a child out of wedlock and worse still, she couldn''t even provide a name for the father.


    The ridicule began almost immediately as every choice she made during her pregnancy was criticized.


    But a dark truth came to light on the day Irene gave birth to her beautiful baby girl, whom she named Susan. In what should have been a moment of joy, Irene instead found herself facing a betrayal that shattered what little faith she had left in her parents. She discovered that they had secretly made arrangements to put Susan up for adoption, seeing her as nothing more than a stain on the family''s reputation.


    Irene''s heart pounded, she wanted to be angry but all she could muster up were tears, only able to confront them with a look of disbelief, all while clutching her newly born daughter in her weak arms.


    When they refused to relent, when they tried to take her baby, she didn''t hesitate, and ran out of the room right after birth.


    Almost crawling to the nearest police officer, her hands trembling to hold Susan as she reported their actions. Within hours, she had gathered what little money she had saved and fled with Susan, vowing never to return.


    The next few weeks were a blur of sleepless nights, hunger, and uncertainty. Irene wandered from one town to the next, clutching her baby in her arms and surviving on sheer willpower. Susan''s cries often echoed through the cheap motel rooms Irene could barely afford, but she refused to let despair take over. But it was every time she looked at her daughter, she found a renewed strength she didn''t know she possessed.


    Eventually, her wandering led her to a small diner on the edge of a dusty road, its neon sign flickering in the evening light. The diner was run by a man named Joe, a kind-hearted but gruff older gentleman who took one look at Irene''s exhausted face and knew she needed help. He didn''t ask too many questions, just offered her a job on the spot and for the first time in weeks, Irene felt relieved.


    Joe turned out to be more than just an employer, he became like a father figure Irene had always needed. He wasn''t a man of many words, but his actions spoke volumes and when he noticed her struggling to find a place to live, he quietly made arrangements for her to rent a small, run-down trailer at a nearby park, covering most of the cost himself.


    Irene, overwhelmed with gratitude, vowed to be the best of what she could be and threw herself into her work at the diner, determined to repay Joe''s kindness in whatever way she could. She became the best waitress he had, moving with quick efficiency and a smile, even when dealing with the most unpleasant customers.


    "Yeah, could I have one serving of you, sitting across from me over a steak, all on me." A trucker said, licking his lips and flashing a sleazy grin as Irene forced herself to hold back the wave of disgust rising within her.


    "I''m sorry dear customer, but I can''t-"


    "Oh, don''t be like that, darling. How about I give you the ol'' lickety-split, if you know what I mea-ARGH!" The trucker''s hand shot out, grabbing Irene''s wrist and yanking her back as he wiggled his tongue at her so that she could see.


    But before he could finish his sleazy act, his own wrist was seized and twisted sharply, forcing him to cry out in pain.


    An old man, burdened by the wars this world had waged, stood with a piercing glare, his weathered eyes locked on the vile man who dared to lay a hand on a woman in such a way.


    "Joe?!" Irene gasped, incredibly embarrassed as the old man smiled at her, releasing his grasp on the trucker.


    "I''ll handle this Irene, please attend to the other customers." Joe, in his well spoken form, smiled warmly at Irene, receiving a grateful nod from her as the old man side-eyed the trucker.


    "I fought in the deadliest war, and even the men I stabbed my bayonet into never touched a lady in such a harsh way like you just did," Joe hatefully muttered, yanking the man out of the booth and pushing him out of the diner he built, brick by brick.


    "I-I''m sorry-"


    "No, you''re not, you vile creature," Joe hissed, dragging the man into the back alley and throwing him into the garbage where trash like him belonged.


    "She''s a hardworking single mother, she doesn''t deserve to be treated like anything other than the utmost respect." Joe washed his hands of the trucker, wagging his finger at the man still trying to regain himself.


    "Now, if I ever catch you around my diner or around that poor girl, you''re gonna find out how I stabbed the Germans, do you understand?" Joe asked, twisting his hand into the air in such a gruesome way that even the gesture made the trucker pale in fright.


    "I-I understand."


    Joe scoffed, turning away, his eyes softening as he glanced at Irene as she reminded him not only of his daughter but also of his own mother, who had raised him alone, with nothing but her strength and love to guide him.


    "Oh Joe, I''m sorry-" Irene tried to apologize, watching Joe once again come in and save the day but he did as always, giving her a warm smile.


    "Hey, don''t apologize now, you haven''t done anything wrong," Joe said, shaking his head and holding up a hand to stop Irene, who nodded quietly in response.


    "Also Joe, I was wondering if I could pull a double today-"


    "Double, I thought everything was alright?" Joe, sniffing money troubles, asked Irene who ducked her head in the utmost shame.


    "I-I''m sorry, but Susan keeps ripping her dresses and I-"


    "Hey now, you don''t have to explain a thing." Joe smiled, shaking his head like a wise old grandpa and patting her ducked head.


    "Here," Joe chuckled, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a twenty as he handed it to Irene, who trembled as the bill was gently lowered into her palm.


    For a select few, especially for Ricky, twenty dollars wasn''t much but for the average everyday working man or woman, that twenty dollars was life-changing.


    Something that in this day in age, could mean the difference between a week of meals or going hungry, a roof over your head or a night on the streets. With that shadow still looming over the country, wages were low, and jobs were scarce. A single twenty-dollar bill could cover groceries for a week or pay a rent bill in full, making it a lifeline for those scraping by.


    For Irene, in her fragile position, it was more than just money, it was a sign that someone cared enough to help her hold on, even if just for a little while.


    "Oh Joe, I can''t-"


    "Listen sweety, when I was growing up, I was raised by a single mother just like yourself." Joe stopped Irene who was about to hand the money back, revealing a little about himself.


    "She did everything for me from working long hours, to double, triple shifts just to put me into school and give me a comfortable life, one she never had," Joe continued, his voice thick with emotion as a sad glimmer passed through his weathered eyes as the memories weighed heavy on him, the sacrifices his mother made for him lingering in his heart even to this day.


    "But the second I got out of college, she died, dropped dead from overexertion, and it just broke my heart in two." Joe patted his heart, his gaze growing distant as he stared down, lost in the memory. The ache was still fresh, a reminder that no achievement, no matter how hard-earned, could ever be as meaningful without someone to share it with.


    "I live with that regret every day, the regret of not even being able to tell her how much I appreciated her," Joe said, shaking his head as he wondered what those last moments had been like for her, alone, with nothing but the stillness of the air surrounding her.


    "Sometimes I wish I could go back in time and just be there with her, one more time," Joe murmured, his voice breaking slightly as he cast his gaze back at Irene, who stood silently, her eyes filled with empathy but at a loss for words.


    "Sometimes kids are so focused on themselves, being the best they want to be, that they forget to really cherish the ones who looked out for them," Joe said softly, his voice carrying the weight of experience. But it was from these experiences that he slowly reached out, gently closing Irene''s outstretched hand around the twenty-dollar bill, a silent reassurance that it was alright, that she didn''t need to say anything.


    Sniff


    Irene''s eyes watered, her hands trembling slightly as she looked at the twenty dollars¡ªmore than just money, it was her lifeline.


    "So, if this twenty dollars is enough for you to go home and spend time with your daughter, then that''s enough for me," Joe said warmly, his voice steady with a silent resolve as he gazed at Irene, seeing the young mother in front of him, and for a moment, the regret that had haunted him for so long seemed to wash away from his eyes.


    It was almost therapeutic for him, an old man too stubborn to admit his faults, to give back to a woman who found herself in every position his mother had once been in. Though it benefited him in its own way, it didn''t diminish the care he felt for Irene. Joe wanted her to have a better life, a life with her child, free from the struggles that had weighed down his own past.


    HIC


    "T-Thank you~" Irene sniffled, rubbing her eyes to stop the tears from flowing as Joe gave her a gentle pat on the shoulder. Without a word, he turned and walked back to the kitchen, his steps steady, but his heart lighter than it had been in years.


    "Don''t worry about it, just come in tomorrow after you''ve squared away your bill," Joe said, waving her off with a towel as he slung it over his shoulder while Irene nodded, turning to walk back to the bus, her thoughts drifting to her baby girl, wondering what she was up to.


    Meanwhile at the local trailer park,


    TWACK


    A boy tumbled backwards into another pile of children, his staggered eyes gazing up at a little girl no more than four.


    She had frizzy, curly red hair and a freckled face, but it was the distinct pair of green eyes, slightly teary, that revealed who she was, Sarah, Irene''s daughter.


    "YES I CAN!" Sarah yelled at them, stomping her foot on the ground, her cheeks puffed in defiance.


    "NUH UH!" One of the kids yelled back, sticking out his tongue, while the other, rubbing his cheek where Sarah had punched him, angrily gritted his teeth.


    "NO GIRLY CAN EVER GO TO THE MOON-"


    BAM


    Sarah didn''t even let the boy finish as her anger flushed her face a deep red as she ran up to him, kicking him square in the stomach, causing him to stumble back with a grunt.


    "YES I CAN, YES I CAN, YESSSSSS IIIIIIII CANNNNNNN!" Sarah cried out, screaming at the top of her lungs as the other kids pushed her back.


    "NO YOU CAN''T!" The kids in the trailer park roared, their voices echoing as Sarah gritted her teeth and bolted away, her fiery determination as colorful as her red hair.


    However, the unruly girl didn''t stop there as she suddenly halted, her eyes scanning the ground before she grabbed a green pinecone, still too under-ripe to slow down mid-air, but solid enough to act as a makeshift rock amd with a swift motion, she hurled it behind her, sending it skidding across the ground.


    "YOU MEANIES!" Sarah screeched, her voice filled with a wrongness unbecoming of her actions as she hurled the green pinecone. It rocketed through the air, racing toward the boy, and before he could react, it smacked right into the center of his forehead, causing him to stumble back in surprise and pain.


    "W-WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The boy immediately started to cry, clutching his forehead as tears streamed down his face. Sarah, not missing a beat and taking a page from her bastard father, bolted away, her feet pounding the dirt as she ran back to the trailer and slammed the door behind her with a final, defiant thud.


    SIGH


    All the while, Irene stood off to the side, her heart sinking as she rushed over from the distance.


    Upon approaching, reality hit her as she was the one who would have to apologize, not the other kids'' parents.


    "Oh, Sarah."


    10 minutes later,


    "And you keep that wild dog ya call a daughter away from my boy, ya hear!" The woman roared, her eyes staring dagger and aggressively pointing all at Irene who nodded, expressing her deepest apologies for daughter before the crazed lady stomped back to her white trash den.


    Sigh


    Irene let out another sigh, closing the door softly behind her as she turned, her feet dragging as she walked toward the broom closet. Opening the door, she found Sarah curled into a tight ball, her small body trembling slightly as if she were trying to make herself invisible.


    Crying, Sarah buried her face between her legs, her small body shaking with each sob. Irene bent down, her heart aching as she slowly untangled the mess of red hair, her fingers gentle as they worked through the knots. She didn''t say anything, letting the silence speak for itself as she quietly comforted her daughter in her own way.


    Sniff


    Sniff


    "They said I can''t see the moon-"


    Sniff


    "And-"


    Sniff


    Irene''s next words were cut off by Sarah''s sniffling, her daughter more upset than usual as she wanted to be mad, to scold her for what had happened, but she couldn''t bring herself to. Not when Sarah looked up at her, tears glistening in her eyes, silently pleading for understanding.


    "Oh, honey, come here~" Irene whispered, opening her arms wide as Sarah crawled into them, slamming her face against her chest with a soft, desperate sob.


    "It''s okay, you''ll go to the moon someday-"


    "Then why do they say that, why won''t they believe me~" Sarah cried, interrupting her mother who picked her up, kissing her frizzy hair repetitively.


    "You believe me, right, mommy?" Sarah sniffled, her big eyes searching Irene''s face for reassurance.


    "Of course, mommy believes you," Irene smiled warmly, her heart swelling as she looked at her loving daughter. Sarah wiped away her tears, sinking into her mother''s shoulder as Irene gently swayed back and forth, soothing her with each motion, the quiet rhythm slowly calming her down.


    "And mommy believes that you''ll make it to the moon-"


    Bam


    Bam


    Bam


    Suddenly, Irene''s words were interrupted by loud banging on her trailer door as she looked out the window, her stomach dropping when she saw the one person she didn''t want to face, her landlord. Hesitant, she opened the door, only to be greeted by Mr. Herlahe, the man who had relentlessly tried to use any means at his disposal to satisfy his own desires.


    Even now, Mr. Herlahe wasn''t looking her in the eye as his gaze lingered on her chest, where the apron she had forgotten to remove from the diner still clung to her body. Irene stiffened, feeling a wave of discomfort wash over her, instinctively stepping back slightly, trying to put some space between them.


    "It''s good to see you both again," Mr. Herlahe chuckled, his eyes still lingering on Irene''s chest as she felt a surge of discomfort, her skin crawling under his gaze.


    "And it''s nice to see you, Mr. Herlahe." Irene forced a smile, Sarah turning her sniffling gaze to him only to give him a glare filled with the utmost hatred.


    "So, do you have my rent? If not, we can always make another arrangement-" Mr. Herlahe licked his lips, looking upon a woman who had a kid but didn''t lose her supple curves.


    "This should be enough." Irene affirmed, pushing the twenty dollars towards Mr. Herlahe who was immediately taken aback, gazing at the money with a baffled expression. Unlike others who hid their perverse intentions behind closed doors, Mr. Herlahe was blatant with his harassment, his thoughts laid bare without the slightest attempt at subtlety. He didn''t hide his lecherous gaze, and his words, often laced with thinly veiled insults, were as ugly as his appearance. Unlike the sleazy and charming face we all knew, Mr. Herlahe''s presence felt like a tangible weight, his ugliness not just physical but oozing from his every action.


    "So, another man got to you first, huh?" Mr. Herlahe sneered, his words cutting through the air. Irene flinched, caught off guard by the venom in his tone.


    "Mr. Herlahe, what are-" Irene was repulsed, gasping and completely taken aback only for the man in front of her to boil with frustration.


    "I would''ve paid 35-40 and you settled for 20, you cheap f*cking whore." Mr. Herlahe''s comments made Irene very nervous, immediately trying to back away with Sarah still clutching onto her and closing the door, only for his foot to block it.


    "I mean what''s wrong with me, I own the trailer park and could''ve given you a decent life but you choose some random guy from the street-"


    "H-How dare-"


    "How dare me, HOW DARE ME!" Mr. Helahe''s voice started to become dangerous, pushing the door open as Irene stepped back with a terrified expression, holding Sarah even tighter.


    "DO YOU KNOW HOW LONG I WAITED FOR YOU TO BECOME SOME PAY TO PLAY B*TCH, DO YOU!?" Mr. Herlahe hands lowered, unbuckling his belt while throwing the twenty dollars into Irene''s face as her legs gave out under her, slowly walking over to her with dangerous thoughts..


    "I''ve been patient with you long enough, so scream all you want, it''s better that way." Mr. Herlahe dropped his pants, his stained tighty whities showing tiself not only to her but to Sarah who was shaking in Irene''s arms, the mother scrambling backwards into the closet but the man continued on with one set goal.


    The only reason Mr. Herlahe could act so boldly was the same reason the trailer park residents had turned away by this point, closing their doors to hide their ashamed gazes.


    Trash was only regarded with disdain, discarded into whatever could hold it before being tossed into the dumpster where it now lay, a dumpster.


    Trailer parks weren''t symbols of wealth but rather the epitome of hardship, where people with little to their name clung desperately to the fragile ideal of ownership that always seemed just out of reach.


    The air was thick with desperation, a mixture of cigarette smoke, cheap alcohol, and the faint hum of televisions playing reruns. It was a place where hope flickered dimly, often snuffed out by the weight of unpaid bills and shattered promises and all that was controlled by Mr. Herlahe, the height of lows.


    They weren''t noble people; they were all castoffs, gathered together in the sh*t heap they had become, retreating behind closed blinds, shut doors, and eyes turned away.


    "Now, open wide-" Mr. Herlahe chuckled, about to pull down his boxers until Sarah''s angry eyes jerked towards him, before she rushed at him with that unbridled anger flaring in her hair.


    GASP


    It was sudden, something neither of the two adults could have imagined with Irene and Mr. Herlahe stared wide-eyed as Sarah delivered a swift kick right to his balls.


    THUMP


    His knees buckled, crashing to the floor as his hands instinctively shielded his groin as his face turned fiery red, the air seeming to vanish from his lungs as the suffocating pain overtook him.


    "YOU STAY AWAY FROM MY MOMMY!" Sarah screamed, standing between him and her mom, crying the entire time, tears streaming down her cheek but showing she wasn''t afraid of this big, bad man, the very same man who lost all of his senses at that point.


    "YOU FCKING BTCH-" Mr. Herlahe breathlessly yelled, raising his fist to punch this little girl with the strength of an adult man before someone caught it.


    Then, to the stunned onlookers outside, Mr. Herlahe''s body was flung out of the trailer, skidding across the ground like a discarded ragdoll.


    His body gradually came to a stop, and a different man in a suit looked down at him, shaking his head in disbelief as Mr. Herlahe''s body came to a stop right before his feet.


    "You f*cked up." Marino, who had been relegated from a guard of the Luciano manor to Ricky''s driver, pulled out a cigarette while shaking his head.


    "W-Wha happened?" Mr. Herlahe asked, the tumbling knocking out three of his front teeth and resulting in a concussion as Marino stepped on his face, pressing it down onto the ground.


    "Did I f*cking stutter?" Marino asked, lighting his cigarette, his greaser hair reflected in the man''s view.


    "I said you f*cked up." Marino scoffed, completely annoyed with the guy and pressing further onto his face as he didn''t like to repeat himself.


    "Geez, am I speaking Chinese or something? Need me to spell it out for you?" Marino shook his head, tucking his lighter away and blowing smoke off to the side before glancing up at Ricky.


    In the doorway, as if destined, sunlight poured over his figure, casting him in a radiant glow causing Irene''s mouth to fall open in shock before she slowly covered it with her hand.


    "I-It''s-"


    "BAD GUY, LEAVE!" Sarah screamed, swinging her fists and kicking at Ricky, only for his hand to reach out.


    She was essentially swinging at the air as Ricky calmly placed a hand on her forehead, keeping her from getting any closer.


    "It''s you~" Irene whispered with a tinge of longingment, recognizing Ricky at a mere glance, with the man rubbing the back of his neck with a guilty expression.


    "Yeah, it''s me," Ricky said, feeling incredibly awkward as he stood there, facing not only the girl he''d knocked up but also the kid who had just tried to punch him in the nuts.


    gasp


    "Sarah, stop it!" Irene gasped, pulling Sarah back as the fiery redheaded puffball was yanked into her mother''s arms, her cheeks puffed out as she shot an angry glare at Ricky.


    "Aye, aren''t you that mutant-" One of the trailer park residents rudely interrupted, calling out to him as Ricky''s eyebrow twitched in irritation.


    "Yeah, yeah, I''m the guy from the paper, but can you shut the f*ck up and let me have my moment?" Ricky snapped, turning to one of the trailer hicks before pointing back at Irene.


    "Oh, alrighty." The trailer hick muttered, nodding as he backed away with surprising ease, clearly remembering how Ricky had tossed a man across the park like a sack of potatoes.


    "Anyways, it''s been a while, Irene," Ricky said, turning back to her with a sleazy smile as her face immediately flushed red, glowing like a ripe tomato.


    "Can we talk?" Ricky asked politely, his tone a sharp contrast to the way he had manhandled their landlord earlier and Irene, still breathless, nodded her head in response.


    Suddenly, her eyes widened in realization as she looked down at her waitress uniform, quickly covering herself as if she were naked.


    "I-I NEED TO CHANGE!" Irene yelled, her face flushing with embarrassment as she realized that this moment, the one where the knight came to save the princess, had the princess wearing a waitress uniform.


    Rushing to the only room in the trailer, she slammed the door behind her, then pressed her back against it, panting as she tried to collect herself.


    ''W-What do I wear?!'' Irene thought, scanning her room before her gaze landed on the closet. She tore it open, frantically rummaging through it, desperate to find something.


    "Weird," Sarah blurted out, beating Ricky to the punch as it was the first word that came to her mind, leaving Ricky momentarily shocked.


    "That''s what I was going to say." Ricky laughed, nudging the little girl playfully before letting out a holler and sitting down at the table.


    Soon after, Sarah sensed there was no danger from the social cues and slowly climbed into the seat across from him.


    They gazed at each other for a long time, the striking green in both of their eyes so identical that it left them both feeling a little lost.


    Then, as if straight out of a movie, they both tilted their heads to one side, mirroring each other in perfect sync before repeating the gesture.


    Finally, after the visual confirmation, Ricky glanced at the status screen that appeared when he looked at Sarah, completely confirming, without a doubt, that this was his daughter.


    [Name: Sarah Jenkins]


    Mother: Irene Jenkins


    Grade: D


    Template: N/A


    Description: After that wild night of teetering the car, Irene found herself in the throes of motherhood, giving birth to a beautiful baby girl. The chaos of that evening lingered in her mind, but the details of your identity remained a blur, overshadowed by the tumultuous emotions of becoming a parent. Feeling the weight of responsibility and uncertainty, she made the difficult decision to move back in with her parents. In their familiar home, Irene sought the support and stability she felt she needed to raise her daughter.


    Abilities: N/A


    Skills: N/A]


    "So, you''re Sarah."


    "Yeah."


    "Do you know who I am?''


    "No."


    "I''m Ricky."


    "I''m Sarah."


    People like to think that children have these deep, meaningful conversations, but in reality, this is how most conversations actually play out.


    Barely worded responses and replies, yet without lying, the complete and brutal truth unfolded with the minimal amount of words.


    "So your mom never told you about your father?"


    "No."


    "Really?"


    "Yes."


    Ricky scratched his chin, realizing just how easy this was as he looked at the little redhead furball in front of him, not bothering to hide his smile anymore.


    "Well, I''m your dad," Ricky smiled, leaning his head on his hand as he gazed at Sarah. She took a moment to register this groundbreaking fact before finally responding.


    "Oh, okay." Sarah copied Ricky''s gesture, leaning her head against her little hand as she looked at the man who had beaten up the bully that always picked on her mommy.


    Then, as if curiosity took over, she suddenly crawled onto the table, her little fingers reaching out to tug at his black hair.


    "Why is your hair straight?" Sarah asked, confused by how their hair could be so different and before Ricky could answer, she tumbled forward and did a little somersault, landing in his lap.


    "I don''t know, genetics I guess?" Ricky replied, watching as Sarah looked back up at him, scratching her own curly hair in thought.


    "What''s that?"


    "Uh, like DNA-"


    "What''s that?"


    "It''s makes you who you are-"


    "Why?"


    "..." Ricky stared plainly at Sarah before pinching her chubby cheek as she swatted his hand away with a pout.


    "Because I said so," Ricky chuckled, watching Sarah pout as her curly red hair flared in the air.


    Then, the door to the main room slowly slid open, revealing Irene in that same sundress from all those years ago, her cheeks tinted with a blush to match.


    "Pretty!" Sarah exclaimed, tumbling off Ricky''s lap before bolting towards Irene, who quickly scooped her up in her arms.


    "The kid''s right, you''re smoking~" Ricky bit his lip, eyeing Irene, who had aged perfectly, with all the right qualities a motherly figure should have.


    "Oh, stop it~" Irene laughed softly, curling the ends of her hair with her free hand, her blush deepening as she waved her hand to dismiss his comment.


    "I mean, it''s like, wow, you just keep taking my breath away." Ricky leaned back, his expression playful as his pants seemed to strain under her mere sight.


    "Sorry for the mess, we weren''t expecting visitors," Irene laughed nervously, glancing around before kicking one of Sarah''s toys into the closet and sitting down in front of Ricky.


    Irene''s mind was in a daze, flustered by the sight of Ricky before her and nothing could have prepared her for this meeting, especially not at such an unexpected time.


    All this time, she had wondered who he really was, knowing little more than his name, Ricky. But now, that same man was sitting before her with a warm smile, the mystery of him unraveling in a way she hadn''t expected.


    "He says he''s daddy," Sarah tugged on Irene''s dress, pointing at Ricky as she quickly hugged her tightly, a mix of surprise and confusion washing over her.


    "That is your daddy-"


    "Then why was he gone?" Sarah asked, her confusion evident. Irene immediately ducked her head, a pang of guilt washing over her as she wondered, for a moment, if it was somehow her fault.


    "Honestly, it was entirely my fault, I should''ve come sooner," Ricky said, his tone straightforward and sincere, addressing both Sarah and Irene with a raw honesty that neither of them had expected.


    "Once I pulled myself together and learned you existed, I started hunting you guys down, and here I am," Ricky said, spreading out his arms as he looked toward the two as Irene slowly raised her gaze, processing his words.


    That list, the one Ricky had given Lucky before the trial, was eerily similar to Bumpy''s, an array of names of all the women he had gotten pregnant before, when he couldn''t even fathom the responsibility. But things are different now. Ricky wanted them to have a better life, a life where they didn''t have to worry or live in a trailer park, where they could have something more than just survival.


    "Hey Sarah, go pick up your toys, I''m upgrading you guys to a house." Ricky winked at her, the little girl looking up at her mom for confirmation before glancing back at him with wide eyes.


    "Okay!" Sarah squealed, running off with her arms outstretched like a plane, and then she dove into her mom''s room, scattering her clothes around as she played.


    Sniff


    Tears trickled down Irene''s cheeks as everything felt surreal in that moment, it was all so fast in a world where everything always seemed to move so slow.


    The grueling, agonizing work Irene had put herself through to provide for Sarah weighed heavily on her every day. She spent countless hours on her feet, working so many hours just to make ends meet, only to find herself back at square one each time. The worries about money never stopped, the bills piling up, the lack of food some nights, the constant fear that something would break or go wrong. Every time she thought things might get better, life seemed to throw another obstacle in her way.


    It was why she had built walls around herself to protect her from the crushing weight of it all, but in doing so, she had confined herself to a space where suffering became normal, where she had learned to accept that this was her life, no changes, no relief.


    So when Ricky reached out his hand, tearing down those walls with only mere words, it was hard for her to understand.


    Ricky''s outstretched hand felt foreign, almost impossible as the world she had created for herself felt too small to allow anything other than her own torment.


    "I''m gonna take care of you both from now on, and I''m sorry you had to go through all that. But from this point forward, you don''t have to work another minute unless you want to. Never again." Ricky''s voice softened with genuine resolve as he spoke to Irene, hoping to offer her some comfort. But the words seemed to hit harder than he anticipated, and she broke down in front of him.


    Sniff


    Hic


    Irene covered her face, desperate to hide the rawness of her tears, the ugly sobs she couldn''t control. The weight that had always pressed on her chest, the suffering of being cast out by her own family, lifted just a little, as if Ricky''s words had cracked open a small space for relief. He didn''t say anything more, he just came over, pulled her into a hug, and let her cry, offering the only comfort he could.


    "I-It was so hard~" Irene whimpered, her voice breaking as she finally let down the walls she''d built so carefully around herself. For the first time in what felt like forever, she didn''t have to be strong. She didn''t have to force a smile or pretend, she could just let go, allowing the tears to flow freely.


    "You''re gonna be fine now, you ain''t have to worry about nothing from nobody," Ricky consoled her, whispering sweet words of promise and stroking her red hair.


    Sarah stood off to the side, her teary eyes peering through the doorway, giving her mommy the space to cry like she always did at night. The little girl watched Irene cry for what felt like forever, her heart heavy, until finally, Irene slowly raised her head.


    "D-Did you really mean it when you said that me and Sarah would live in a house from now on?" Irene sniffled, her eyes searching Ricky''s, as if trying to make sense of the words since it all seemed like a dream to her, to escape this place, let alone have a home of their own.


    "Baby, you''re gonna live in a mansion," Ricky said with a sly smile, gently caressing her cheek.


    Irene froze, her face flushing red as she became momentarily stunned, like a deer caught in headlights, as he leaned down closer.


    Bam


    "I FINISHED!" Sarah yelled, throwing her suitcase onto the ground and making both of them flinch before Irene pushed him away.


    "C-Can you give us a minute to pack?" Irene asked, her face turning even redder than her hair, her voice soft as she tried to steady herself and Ricky glanced out the window, then back at her, his smile never fading.


    "Sure, you do that while I take out the trash." Ricky chuckled, walking out of the trailer as Sarah ran into Irene''s arms while the latter tilted her head.


    "But trash day was yesterday."


    15 minutes later,


    Within the trailer park''s office, Ricky sat with his feet kicked up on the desk, his eyes scanning a certificate in his hand.


    "Wow, even the deed look like sh*t." Ricky commented, gazing at the deed to the trailer park that had greasy splodges on it.


    In front of Ricky sat a battered and bruised Mr. Herla, his body marked with shades of black and blue. He was stripped down to nothing but his yellow-stained underwear, ropes wrapped tightly around him as he sat slumped in a chair, his posture defeated.


    "Aye, respond!" Marino yelled, driving the bud of his cigarette into the man''s thigh as his skin sizzled.


    "A-Ah-SORRY!" Mr. Herla yelped, his voice strained as his bloodshot eyes flickered with panic, one of them swollen and half-closed from a detached retina.


    "Alright, this is mine now," Ricky said, his voice calm as he looked at Mr. Herla, who trembled, the last shred of power he had over people slipping away.


    "But don''t worry, I know just what you''re worth." Ricky''s tone remained light as he reached into his pocket, pulling out a twenty-dollar bill. He crumpled it in his hand, letting the action speak louder than words and with expert precision, he threw it at Mr. Herlahe''s face as it dropped onto his lap.


    "Marino, break his legs," Ricky ordered, standing up and walking out of the office with a cold finality in his voice. Marino immediately moved, grabbing the crowbar from where it was tucked to the side, his expression grim as he approached the trembling man.


    "B-But I did everything you asked, I even gave you-"


    "Come on, man, what did you expect?" Ricky turned around, shrugging nonchalantly as he looked at the beaten and bruised man as he opened the door, the sound of it creaking echoing in the tense silence.


    "You f*cked up, did you think you''d be able to leave in one piece?" Ricky genuinely asked, watching Mr. Herlahe''s face become pale, his head slowly turning to Marino shaking hsi head. "I told ya, didn''t I?" Marino tapped the crowbar against his palm, clicking his tongue as Ricky slowly closed the door behind him, the sound muffled by the heavy silence that followed.


    "P-Please, d-don''t-AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    The scream echoed from the office, but the barrier around it ensured the sound couldn''t escape.


    Ricky walked calmly over to Irene, lugging her belongings, and without hesitation, he picked them up with ease.


    "Anything else?" Ricky asked, slinging the suitcase over his back effortlessly as he walked toward the car as he popped the trunk with a flick of his wrist.


    "No, that should be it-" "WAIT!" Sarah, with arms filled with her favorite cheap toys, rushed over to them before tripping on her own foot.


    Just before she could fall, Ricky grabbed the back of her shirt, preventing her face from meeting the ground with her face hovering inches from the pavement, the near collision stopped by his quick reflexes.


    "Thanks!" Sarah laughed, sitting up and throwing her toys into the trunk before running into the back of the car.


    "Um, Ricky?" Irene suddenly asked, watching Ricky turn back after opening the car door for Sarah.


    "What''s up, forget something?" Ricky wondered, his tone teasing, but Irene shook her head, her hands instinctively gripping the ends of her dress as she steadied herself.


    "If it''s alright, I''d like to make one stop before we go, to say goodbye to someone who helped me and Sarah a lot-"


    Irene started telling Ricky about Joe, explaining how, despite being a good person, he was essentially filling the role that Ricky should''ve, taking care of her, making sure she was alright.


    Ricky listened, his smile twitching, a hint of jealousy creeping into his chest as he processed the words.


    "Yeah, of course," Ricky said with a forced smile, holding the door open for Irene who slid into the seat, settling the excited Sarah on her lap.


    Looking back, Marino exited the office, gripping his bloodied crowbar, and headed toward the car as he stopped abruptly when he caught sight of Ricky''s gaze.


    "Wipe it off first, come on, Marino," Ricky sighed, climbing into the car and shaking his head, his gaze heavy with disappointment and because of this, Marino rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly.


    "Sorry, boss."


    Soon after, Marino drove the three not to Irene''s new residence but to the old diner that had been her home for so many years.


    Joe, wiping the counter as the sun dipped lower in the sky, glanced up at the three people stepping out of a fancy car as his eyes widened as recognition struck, not just two of them, but all three.


    When she walked in, her uniform not on her body but folded carefully in her arms, Joe couldn''t help but smile warmly. Watching her slowly place it neatly on the counter before him, and his gaze softened further.


    It was such a miniscule act and yet, it spoke volumes with Joe picking it up within a mere second.


    "Thank you, for everything Joe." Irene expressed her utmost sincerity, gazing at the man who simply wanted her to spend as much time with her darling daughter.


    "You''ve got nothing to thank me for, honey. Just promise me you''ll live a good life," Joe said, his eyes lingering on Irene. For a moment, he saw his own mother reflected in her, and as Sarah ran around the diner, she felt like a younger version of himself, full of energy and innocence.


    "With all my heart."


    It was such a short interaction and it would leave many confused as to why it wasn''t longer but sometimes, sincerity doesn''t need to be spoken in paragraphs to mean something, but with only a couple of words.


    "Thanks, mister!" Sarah chirped, waving at Joe as she took her mother''s hand and together, they headed back to the car, leaving Ricky behind to linger for a moment longer.


    "So, the guy filling up my newspaper is the deadbeat who left that poor girl out to dry," Joe said, pointing his towel at Ricky who wasn''t the least bit offended.


    "Yeah, I know, but at least I''m here now rather than never." Ricky sighed, shrugging and receiving a stern chuckle from Joe who eventually nodded.


    "That''s a harsh way to put it, but even so, you''d better take care of her," Joe lectured, his stern and direct tone reminding him of Lucky which only made Ricky chuckle, reaching into his suit with a smirk.


    "Don''t worry, I will." Ricky said, then set a stack of money on the counter, causing Joe to freeze in surprise.


    "Woah wait, this is-"


    "Listen, Irene told me what you did for her, and from everything I''ve heard about you, you''re essentially her guardian angel." Ricky tapped the money, nudging it toward Joe but it wasn''t a thank you, but an offer.


    "But that''s my role, and this is me buying you out, capisce?" Ricky smirked, eyeing the stubborn old man, who just laughed in response.


    "The nuts on this guy, huh?" Joe chuckled, gesturing toward his regulars sipping coffee at the side as he turned back to Ricky, still laughing.


    "But man to man, thank you." Ricky nodded, then backed away, offering a small salute to Joe before walking out of the diner and once outside, he paused, glancing down at the wad of cash in his hand but it was the card that had his attention.


    "The hell is this?" Joe muttered aloud, grabbing the card with a signature on it and one of the trucker guys from the side glanced over, his eyes widening in disbelief.


    "Holy sh*t joe, that was really Slick!" The man sprung to his feet, watching Ricky get into the back of the car as it slowly started to drive off.


    "What are you-"


    "He''s the new head of the Luciano family, and that''s a favor!" The man was gobstruck, a member of the Teamsters Union who knew all too well the hold the Luciano family had on the city, something Joe was oblivious to.


    "Huh, so Irene and her kid are going to be alright in his hands?" Joe wondered aloud, slipping the card into his shirt pocket as the man shook his head, looking uneasy. "Alright? Ain''t no one in this city, hell, this state will ever touch those two without going missing." The man shivered, already feeling the cold depths of the riverbed of those poor suckers who dared try to mess with them.


    "Well, then I can rest easy and get back to work," Joe chuckled, grabbing the money and heading back to his safe but the regulars, however, were left speechless, still processing everything that had just happened.


    Now, after threatening the families of the mob bosses and buying everything for pennies on the dollar, Ricky Profilio''s profile has increased dramatically. More specifically, his real estate holdings had doubled, and he planned to use them to house all the women who had been knocked up by him.


    Irene would be getting the house that Carlo had bought for his mother as a surprise gift for the end of the year, but now it would belong entirely to Ricky. Driving through this residential neighborhood, the house wasn''t a glamorous mansion, but it couldn''t be considered anything less than impressive.


    Even the driveway was bigger than their trailer, and Sarah''s eyes sparkled with awe as she looked at it, clearly amazed by the space and grandeur of it all.


    "Aye, Marino, you did good. Take the rest of the day off," Ricky said, patting his shoulder before stepping out of the car and nodding at him.


    "Yes, boss." Marino, who was about to go to the strip club, held up his thumb with the slobbering image of titties smacking his face.


    "Oh Ricky~" Irene gasped, unbelieving in the grand spectacle as she covered her mouth upon looking at the house.


    "MOMMY, THIS BUSH LOOKS LIKE A LION!" Sarah roared, imitating the fierce animal from the side. Irene, too stunned to take it all in, didn''t even realize that all her bushes seemed to resemble zoo animals.


    "Let''s take a look. I was in a rush to get to you, so I didn''t have time to check if it was furnished," Ricky said with a frown, knowing there should be furniture as he walked ahead to inspect, nodding his head once he saw everything in place.


    "Oh good." RIcky nodded to himself, Irene peeking in only for her eyes to widen completely.


    It was beautiful, something that only seemed to depreciate in stories, a fashionable paradise.


    The white furniture, plush white carpet, and gleaming white marble tiles that covered the floor were illuminated by the crystal chandelier, creating an atmosphere straight out of a Cinderella fairy tale.


    "Oh yeah, I almost forgot, are you both hungry?" Ricky turned back to the star, struck Irene and the jumping Sarah.


    "Cause I could eat."


    30 minutes later,


    "Sarah, stop it." Irene lectured, dabbing Irene''s face which was completely covered in pasta sauce as it was smeared everywhere.


    "You guys want breadsticks?" Ricky walked over with a pink apron on, holding a baking sheet of breadsticks as Irene wanted to refuse but couldn''t help but cover her mouth.


    SNORT


    Irene snorted out a laugh, turning away in embarrassment as Ricky smiled, glancing down at the apron before looking back at her with a teasing grin.


    "What? I really think I make it work," Ricky joked, adjusting the apron as Sarah looked over, then shook her head, clearly not impressed with his playful confidence.


    "No, you don''t," Sarah said bluntly, giving her honest opinion before she then turned back to her plate, devouring her food as if she hadn''t skipped a beat.


    "Ouch~" Ricky groaned, frowning as he took off the apron and tossed it aside before sitting back down with a playful pout.


    "Hey listen, I know it was sudden and it''s probably sh*tty to say this, but I might not be around a whole lot cause of my work." Ricky pulled up the chair closer to Irene, knowing that it was going to be hard for him to be around all the time.


    "But I promise, if you two ever need anything, even if it''s something small, just ask, and it''ll be taken care of, alright?" Ricky said earnestly but before he could continue, Sarah jumped onto the table, puffing out her chest and raising her arms triumphantly.


    "I WILL GO TO THE MOON!" Sarah proclaimed loudly, as if it were a grand mission with Irene quickly yanking her down, starting to wipe the sauce off her face with an exasperated sigh.


    "Stop that-"


    "Alright," Ricky shrugged, half-amused, half-serious, as he literally promised her the moon. Sarah''s eyes sparkled with excitement at the grand proclamation.


    "Really?" they both asked, Irene shocked and Sarah completely dazzled by the idea.


    "Yeah, but don''t you have to be an astronaut first?" Ricky asked, munching on a breadstick as Sarah started contemplating the logistics of her new moon mission.


    "I didn''t know that?" Sarah muttered, quickly resolving to become an astronaut right then and there.


    Ricky licked some crumbs off his lips, staring directly at Irene as he did so as she blushed fiercely, turning her gaze down to avoid his eye contact.


    "THEN I WILL BE THE ACRONAU-"


    "It''s called an astronaut-"


    "MOOOOOOOOOOOON!"


    The dinner continued, with it mostly revolving around Sarah needing her face to be wiped down or her sudden and unexpected outbursts but eventually, the night slowly loomed in.


    "Honey, go get ready for bed-"


    "VROOOOOOOOOOOOM!" Sarah interrupted Irene, making car noises as she bolted towards the stairs leaving her mother to only relent silently.


    "Oh, I almost forgot, here." Ricky suddenly reached into his pocket, pulling out the folded deed and placing it in front of Irene.


    "What''s this-"


    GASP


    Irene immediately gasped, looking upon the actual deed of the trailer park which had marked her miserable tenure.


    "It''s the deed to the park, it''s yours now." Ricky leaned back, smiling ear to ear as he just loved seeing that speechless reaction of hers.


    "But I-"


    "If you don''t want it, you can throw it away. If you want to run it, then go nuts. If you want to burn it to the ground, I''ll give you some matches. The main thing is that you can do whatever you want." Ricky stood up, giving Irene so much to think about as he was bombarding her with gift after gift.


    "I''ll go tuck Sarah in," Ricky''s words whispered right into her ear, making her shiver and then flinch as Irene ducked her head again, her face flushed with a furious blush.


    But once her gaze returned to that deed, she sort of froze and stared at it for a long time while Ricky ascended the stairs.


    Eventually, he had found the room Sarah had picked as he looked at her suitcase already sprawled out on the floor, the contents dumped out.


    "Story, STORY!" Sarah roared from the bed in her pink onesie pajamas, pointing relentlessly at Ricky who walked over to her side.


    "How about a cool story about Alexander The Great?" Ricky asked with a chuckle, watching Sarah scrunch her brows.


    "What''s that?"


    "Well, he was this general-"


    Instead of talking about himself, Ricky for some reason started telling some of the tales Alexander would spew when he had too much to drink.


    About him sailing the seas, conquering lands, and forging an empire that stretched as far as the eye could see. For a normal kid, they might have been intimidated, but Sarah was so excited to hear more that she eventually tuckered herself out, drifting off to sleep with a smile on her face.


    Ricky sort of sat there for a second, caressing her messy red hair before slowly walking out of the room, turning off the light, and shutting the door behind him.


    ''Oh f*ck, I forgot.'' Ricky suddenly halted, exiting Sarah''s room before realizing that he had actually forgotten about Stephanie''s rewards.


    You know, for everything he was and everything he might become, at the end of the day, he was still human. And that simple truth, with all its flaws and complexities, was something that made him more real than anything else, he forgot, oftentimes a lot.


    Burdened with everything that was laying on his mind, sometimes things seemed to slip and fall into the background, even if they were vital.


    Ricky wasn''t immune to this, he wasn''t someone who could magically conjure up thoughts and explanations when his mind was already set on something.


    His focus wasn''t trained to be split, instead going about things one at a time and it was starting to show how it was getting to him.


    Sigh


    ''Come on Ricky, you''re supposed to be better than this.'' Ricky messaged his forehead, pinching the bridge of his nose before looking at the screen he had been pushing away.


    ''And even when I told myself I wasn''t going to take it for granted, I literally fcking took it for granted, FCK!'' Ricky cursed under his breath, more than pissed at himself as the whole point of that realization back with Frances was to take advantage of the system, but he''d fallen right back into the same pattern as soon as the opportunity presented itself.


    ''Choose rewards and receive-oh COME ON!'' Ricky cursed again, kicking himself as he remembered he hadn''t even redeemed Frances''s gacha either as the frustration only grew, knowing he''d let so much slip through his fingers.


    His focus was so fixated on the notice of his system upgrading that he completely forgot about the 100 gacha just lying in his inventory, untouched and waiting to be redeemed as the realization hit him like a punch to the gut.


    ''Just calm down Ricky, just chill out.'' Ricky let out a deep breath, slowly walking to a chair by the side and leaning forward as the system panel displayed before him.


    It was then that a tradition would be born, a tradition that should''ve started much sooner but had only come about after multiple realizations and the frustration of his own sense of worth toward his greatest asset.


    Instead of accepting the rewards outright, Ricky just thought about it, even if he wanted to pick Gacha over both these women''s skills, he thought it out.


    He thought long and hard about how Frances''s and Stephanie''s skills could benefit him, how they would contrast with the 300 gacha he was about to receive. After actually weighing the possibilities and the potential gains, he finally came to a conclusion, realizing the best course of action for his next move.


    ''Choose gacha.'' Ricky thought, knowing that although France''s skills weren''t as valuable as 100 gacha, Stephanie''s needed more consideration.


    She was a woman who had built an empire from nothing, and although Ricky wanted to choose her skills, he couldn''t ignore the potential of the gacha. Honestly, he knew that innovation was the only way to stay on top of the market, and he needed more products for his company.


    Ricky was prepared to sacrifice Stephanie''s immediate gains, hoping for a larger payoff in the future. After all, all he had to do was knock her up again to get her skills, at least that''s how he rationalized it in his mind.


    DING


    Dexterity: 52¡ú59 (Lower realm of Superhuman)


    (Epic Skill) Profit Sniff: The ability to to recognize the profit of a proposal by merely sniffing the air around them. A sweet smell will give the user the ability to sense whether it would give him a profit, neutral smell would mean break even, and rotten egg smell for loss.


    [Received: (Mythic Skill) Asura''s Hands: These hands emerge from the user''s back or sides, glowing with a mystical aura, and serve two distinct purposes: weapon binding and combat augmentation.


    Power''s & Abilities:


    Weapon Binding: The user can bind a weapon to themselves permanently, marking it as an extension of their soul. Once a weapon is bound, it can only be wielded by the user; if disarmed or separated, they can recall the weapon to their hand instantly, regardless of distance. To unbind a weapon would be to detach it from the user''s soul which is a gruesome process.


    Spectral Arms: Upon activation, the Asura Hands manifest, allowing the user to wield additional weapons simultaneously. The number of hands depends on the skill''s mastery level and each spectral arm mirrors the user''s dexterity and strength, functioning as if controlled directly by their mind.


    Aura Enhancement: Each hand is equipped with its own special aura enchantment, granting them an element. The arms exude an intimidating aura that can momentarily stagger or frighten weaker opponents.


    (Legendary Skill) Empower: The user can transfer their own stamina to amplify the potency of another skill, temporarily boosting its power or effectiveness. This skill is versatile but comes with significant limitations in terms of the ranks and nature of the skills it can empower. The user cannot empower the skill itself, and as the rank difference increases within the empowered skill, the empowerment becomes progressively weaker.


    (Legendary Armor) Impenetrable dot: This inconceivably small dot that grants its user absolute invulnerability within its influence. Despite its minuscule size, the dot can resist any form of damage, making it impervious to even the most devastating attacks. However, its size limits its effectiveness to a very specific area, meaning only what is directly within the dot''s confines is protected.


    (Epic Item) Waylon''s Whistle: Grants the user the ability to dispel an oncoming magic attack. Can only be used once. X 10


    (Epic Item) Tempest Horn: A horn made of enchanted bone that, when blown, summons a tempest of winds and rain. After being blown, the horn shatters and is no longer usable.


    (Rare Skill) Art Appraisal: Gives the user a letter grade of whatever art piece they look at, making it easy to discern real potential from mere trash.


    (Rare Item) Gem-Encrusted Chalice: Exudes an air of importance, possibly ceremonial.


    (Rare Armor) Sturdy Shin Guards: A sturdy pair of shin guards that can block a decent amount of attacks from low-grade monsters. X 4


    (Uncommon Item) Dryer: A machine designed to dry clothes using electric heat, bypassing the traditional need for clotheslines or natural drying methods. This appliance would feature a drum or compartment where wet clothes are placed, and once the machine is activated, it generates warm air that circulates to dry the garments quickly. X 10


    (Uncommon Item) Electric Sewing Machine: A portable, battery-powered sewing machine that allows for quick and efficient stitching. It can mend torn clothes, craft intricate designs, or create new garments from scratch. With an adjustable speed dial, it makes repairs faster than hand sewing, but its use is limited by its battery life. X 15


    (Common Item) Leather Wallet: Worn but functional, with a faint smell of old receipts. X 25


    (Common Item) Broken Dice: Whenever rolled, it will never land on an even number and always land on an old. X 40


    (Common Item) Silver Coin: A standard form of currency in the mythical city of Orgabanda can be used to buy simple goods or services. X 45


    (Common Item) Water Skin: A leather pouch filled with water, perfect for staying hydrated during long travels. X 25


    (Common Item) Tinderbox: A small kit containing flint, steel, and tinder to start a fire when needed. X 35


    (Common Item) Wooden Shield: A simple, lightweight shield made of wood, providing basic protection in battle but vulnerable to heavy attacks. X 15


    (Common Item) Stone Knife: A primitive, yet reliable tool for cutting, skinning, or preparing food; it has a simple stone blade affixed to a wooden handle. X 45


    (Common Item) Candle: A small wax candle that burns for hours, providing a steady light in dark environments. X 25


    ''Feed-'' Ricky suddenly stopped himself, catching himself from just throwing skills and other sh*t at his eldritch abomination skill.


    After taking the time to read Empower''s description, he realized that once he fed it to the Eldritch Abomination, it wouldn''t be able to use it on itself.


    ''Sh*t, I think I''m gonna have to ponder.''


    While that was going on, Irene slowly walked through the master bedroom where she would be staying, her gaze drifting toward the dresser. Her hands glided over the smooth silk fabric before halting at the display of diamond earrings and necklaces.


    It all felt so surreal as she turned her gaze toward the bathroom, captivated by the gleaming marble tiles. She stepped inside, drawn to the luxurious shower, her curiosity growing and slowly undressing, she felt a compelling need to test the water pressure for herself.


    It was such a strange thing to focus on, but for Irene, someone accustomed to one-minute hot showers that often faltered, it was a dream come true. Slowly, she shed the sundress, revealing her supple body, and with a quiet sense of anticipation, she stepped into the shower and turned it on.


    There was literally no wait, the hot water drenching her skin as she closed her eyes all while Ricky stood in the doorway.


    "Got room for another?"

 Chapter 153 - 148: Wash It All Away (R18)

    Chapter 153 - 148: Wash It All Away (R18)


    "EEEEEP!" Irene let out a timid, embarrassed, yelp upon seeing Ricky at the doorway.


    Covering herself instinctively, Irene''s shocked face turned into that familiar shade of red upon realizing it was Ricky.


    "R-Ricky?!" Irene asked, her tone surprised at Ricky''s intrusive visit as he waved his hand at her.


    "One and only." Ricky chuckled, making a joke while his cock dangled freely since he had no clothes on.


    Ricky had done plenty of shameless things in both this life and his past one, but expecting cake from a woman he had abandoned for years was weirdly not surprising.


    "W-What are you doing-"


    "Saving on water, it costs less to shower together." Ricky shamelessly continued, walking towards the shower as Irene, the very same who had to constantly worry about bills, suddenly started seriously thinking about his words.


    "T-That does seem logical." Irene held her cheek, realizing that his words had some merit to them.


    "Irene, I''m just f*cking with you. I just wanted to see you naked," Ricky said with a chuckle, grinning as her cheeks flushed an even deeper shade of red as he strolled into the shower, clearly pleased with himself.


    "Me?" Irene, who hadn''t lost all of the baby weight, unconsciously gazed down at her stomach that still had some handles on it.


    It was then that her body shivered, remembering that familiar touch as his hands slowly snaked to that exact spot.


    "Yes, you." Ricky whispered into her ear, walking under the hot water that was currently drenching Irene.


    Honestly, Ricky had his fair share of charm, but when it came to a woman''s body, it was all about variety. It was the appreciation of those natural curves that often went unnoticed. So when the self-conscious Irene glanced at her own figure with uncertainty, Ricky couldn''t help but latch on like some parasite.


    "Don''t touch that~" Irene whined, her eyes gazing down in embarrassment at Ricky grabbing hold of her handles.


    Kissing her shoulder, Irene tried to suppress the subconscious bundle of self-consciousness and embarrassment she carried, but it was a losing battle.


    Everything she''d been through had taken a toll, leaving her self-image at an all-time low. Despite her beauty, she struggled with intense body dysphoria.


    It was nearly impossible for her to see anything but flaws, her mind relentlessly criticizing her at every turn until the weight of it all brought her to tears.


    Sniff


    Irene couldn''t help it, tears watering her eyes while becoming ashamed of her only handles as Ricky slowly paused.


    "Hey, hey~" Ricky stopped his sleazy hands, slowly turning Irene around as he pulled her into his embrace.


    The water trickled down, filling the air with steam, yet it didn''t cloud the delicate connection between them. Their touch remained serene and gentle, untouched by the heat swirling around them as Irene''s sobs slowly came to a stop.


    "I didn''t mean to make you uncomfortable-" Ricky, even in his shamelessness, wouldn''t force himself onto an unwilling Irene since even he had boundaries.


    "No, I''m just-" Irene stopped herself, resting her forehead on Ricky''s chest as he stroked her wet hair.


    "It was hard, giving birth to Sarah, for my body." Irene closed her eyes, loving her fur ball more than anything in the world but it was hard.


    She endured 36 hours of excruciating labor, but even after giving birth, her frail body was forced to summon the strength to run to a police officer, leaving her utterly drained.


    "I''m sorry." Ricky felt as if he had to apologize, comforting her since although he hadn''t seen this woman in three years, the connection between them still lingered.


    Even though their encounter was just a one-night stand, Irene''s body never forgot the memory of his touch.


    "You didn''t do anything, you didn''t know." Irene smiled, turning her gaze back at Ricky who forced a smile back.


    Although he could be honest with her and admit it was intentional, he chose to keep the existence of his system a secret forever. No amount of forgiveness could be granted to a degenerate who purposefully impregnated women for the sake of gaining power.


    "Thank you." Irene showed a toothy smile, the water dazzling her in that moment as Ricky sort of froze at this sight.


    In the next second, Ricky leaned down to the unsuspecting lips of Irene before gently laying his lips upon hers.


    No matter how many he would end up bedding, those who gave birth to his beautiful children would always have room in his heart, Irene included.


    So when he saw her thanking him, Ricky sort of wanted to assure and comfort her in his own ways since he really wasn''t good with his words.


    Irene was a little surprised, to say the least, but as his lips brushed against hers and their tongues danced in a gentle, rhythmic exchange, she found herself becoming utterly lost in the moment.


    Ricky''s hands slowly traced down her back, savoring the feel of every curve, before reaching not her perky, but meaty, rounder cheeks, so substantial they stretched beyond the reach of his hands.


    However instead of using his skills on Irene, prompting her body into the mood and just taking her here and now before filling her to the brim with his cum, he wanted to do something first.


    Breaking the kiss, Irene''s dazed expression opened to his sleazy smile, her cheeks a pink hue, the color of a lust that was wrongfully interrupted.


    "Ricky?" Irene longingly asked, wondering if it was something she did to warrant this sudden stop as he reached to the side.


    ''Does he not want me?'' Irene couldn''t help but think, her gaze shifting to the side only to hear a lid corked off.


    The sudden sound made her glance back, curiosity piquing as she turned to see Ricky squeezing the bottle of body wash onto his outstretched palm.


    It was his fault that Irene struggled with confidence, having given him a precious baby girl and the least he could do now was try to restore some of the self-assurance she''d lost, reminding her just how gorgeous her body truly was.


    Rubbing his hands together, he gently pulled the curious Irene back into his embrace, then turned her so that she faced forward, the warmth of his touch grounding her as she leaned into him.


    His cock wedged between those meaty cheeks, she felt its towering figure pock at her back but before she could even show her embarrassment, she felt his hands.


    Slathered in soap, his hands slowly traced from those luscious handles, all the way up to her slightly drooping breasts.


    "Mmmmh~" Irene bit her lip, his hands barely gracing her with a pleasure only to be amplified by Ricky''s skill.


    "W-Wait-"


    "You''re so beautiful Irene~" Ricky whispered those sweet words into the self-conscious Irene, watching her shrink at the compliment.


    "I just want to take you right here and feel your body again and again, like I did all those years ago." Ricky murmured, his dirty words dripping with desire, only cleaned by the slick slide of his soapy hands.


    The very same hands that carefully rubbed, traced, and explored every part of the front of her body, the soap lathered slowly, turning into rich foam that cascaded down her pale, smooth skin, each drop tracing a delicate path of sensuality.


    "But I''ll wait." Ricky whispered, one of his hands gently caressing her stomach while the other made his way to her right breast.


    "H-Ha~" Irene breathlessly moaned, feeling him squeeze her tit as it brought her a sharp hit of that pleasure she hadn''t had in so long.


    "I''ll wait, until you understand why you''re so goddamn beautiful, cherish this gorgeous body of yours until you understand how sexy you really are~" Ricky was almost resolute in his words, determined to show how much he loved this body of hers before f*cking her into oblivion.


    "Ricky I''m-a-ah~" Irene tried to dissuade him, only for her nipple to be slightly teased, then squeezed.


    Shivering, Irene was reminded all over again of what his touch did to her, each caress reawakening the marks he had left on her body.


    The soap made her body glisten, while his hands expertly showcased every curve, caressing, molding, and fully appreciating every inch of what her body had to offer.


    It was then, as Irene''s hand dropped lower, that Ricky caught it gently and placed it over her stomach.


    His other, which had been stimulating her nipple, graced down her soapy naked skin until it arrived at her folds.


    "Ah~" Irene''s head arched back, hitting against his chest as she felt his finger slowly press into her clit.


    Tightly locking her own hand on her stomach, Ricky slowly started to finger her pussy but instead of just sticking his hands into her folds, he first arrived at her clit.


    Starting with a slow circular motion, Ricky paid attention to the responses, to the slight fidgets of her body and the supple moans trailing out of her mouth.


    "A-Ah~" Irene let out a staggered, almost louder moan upon feeling Ricky switch up his caressing.


    Smiling, his lips traced a path down to her neck, his fingers slowly rubbing up and down, a shift from the usual clockwise motions, which was Irene''s sweet spot.


    Although he could use a skill to wetten her in the snap of a finger, it wasn''t solely about f*cking her senseless but making her realize that her body was beautiful.


    Ricky didn''t need to use more than his fingers; they were enough. As he worked her, his focus never wavered from the way her body reacted, watching closely as her responses unfolded beneath his touch.


    Waiting for her curves to relax under his touch, he lingered until she was shivering in response, her body finally softening into the sensation and only then did he move his fingers down, tracing her with a deeper, more deliberate touch.


    "Ah!" Irene let out a deeper moan, feeling his fingers slowly slip into her folds while his thumb remained pressed on her clit.


    Subtly moving up and down, his fingers betrayed his thumb and started beckoning towards her insides.


    Calling them to come closer, to lubricate these walls with her sweet nectar, slowly maneuvering his middle finger in and out.


    Bashing your fingers in and out would only cause irritation and instead, it was a calm, deliberate rhythm, gentle and subtle, building warmth and tension as he eased her into the moment.


    It was only as Irene''s body loosened did the movements of those slow fingers start to progressively heighten.


    "I-I''m-"


    "Beautiful." Ricky finished her sentence, amplifying his fingers while feeling that shivering body heighten to another degree.


    Guiding her toward her climax, he felt her body tremble beneath his touch, her response confirming that he was getting closer and only then did he quicken his movements, the pace building in intensity.


    "AH~" Irene beckoned out a more aggrieved moan, feeling a budding sensation build within her body at Ricky''s touch.


    "Say it Irene, say you''re beautiful~" Ricky cooed, his words forming goosebumps at her skin as her closed eyes twitched.


    "I-I-AH~" Irene''s words were interrupted, her moan taking precedence as the hot shower doused onto her being.


    All those bubbling insecurities that haunted her skin, showed themselves as her soapy form was covered in them.


    Years upon years of insecurities, filth tucked away into those curves that Ricky was slowly trying to wash away.


    "Say it~" Ricky''s words finally proned Irene''s eyes to open, ever so slightly, the warmth of the water.


    "I''m beautiful~" Irene murmured, the hot water cascading down her chest, washing away the remnants of her filth. As the soap melted away, droplets trickled slowly to the floor, adding to the sensation of cleansing both body and mind.


    "Again." Ricky whispered, speeding up his fingers that traced the lining out her walls with a haste that beckoned her climax towards him.


    "I''m beautiful~"


    "Again."


    "I''m beautiful~"


    "I''m beautiful~"


    "I''m beautiful~"


    Slowly, with those reaffirming moans streaming out moan after moan of reassurance, those insecurities were washing away.


    The very same filth that lingered on her body like a repugnant smell, a constant reminder that haunted her sense of self.


    As the water flowed over her skin, she let herself drift in the warmth, her thoughts fading into the rhythm of the moment. Then that budding sensation, the very same one that had budding into the pits of her being, slowly took form.


    "I''m beautiful!" Irene moaned, blossoming forth as the beautiful woman she always was as her folds twitched relentlessly in the threshold of Ricky''s fingers.


    Each hot breath she took seemed to cleanse her further, like she was shedding a second skin. The lingering weight of doubt and shame, once so suffocating, slipped away, replaced by the sensation of her own strength, her own beauty. Then that budding sensation, the very same one that had budding into the pits of her being, slowly took form.


    "I''m beautiful!" Irene moaned, blossoming forth as the beautiful woman she always was as her folds twitched relentlessly in the threshold of Ricky''s fingers.


    Her body convulsed, the pleasure intoxicating as it stammered out of her dirty lips before splashing down onto the floor alongside the hotstream of water.


    Irene''s teeth clenched, her eyes twitching while releasing all that pent up stress with the slight motions of Ricky''s touch.


    "So beautiful~" Ricky reassured Irene, holding her weak form that twitched every so often before leaning her forward.


    Like some sort of figurine, Irene let her body be bent into a certain position until she realized that her hands were both planted on the walls before her.


    "Ricky?" Irene asked, her hazy eyes turning back to Ricky greedily looking down at her voluptuous and meaty ass with only desire filling them.


    Ricky had held back for as long as he could, feeling as if he would go insane if his cock had to be sandwiched between these two slabs of meat for even a second more.


    "Just relax~" Ricky assured Irene, lining up his cock at her wettened folds, slathered in remnants of nectar for her previous pleasure induced climax.


    CLAP


    "AH~" Irene''s head and back arched to the tune of her moan, feeling his cock all but slam into her insides.


    Her meaty ass praised his efforts, letting out a firm clap as his hips collided into them while submerging the entire length of his cock into her insides with one go.


    "It''s like I never left~" Ricky grunted, nestling his cock into her guts that had already been morphed to his liking in his first encounter.


    Irene''s body had already been ruined, even before the pregnancy as her pussy had been absolutely wrecked and deformed to his sheer size.


    But at that same time, her insides had been molded to completely take him in his entirety, meaning Ricky didn''t even have to pretend to go easy.


    Winding up his hips, he viciously slammed his cock back into her welcoming folds that gave that reminiscent feeling of hospitality.


    Engulfing him in a bed of warmth, that mushy and surreal feeling of Irene showcased itself while squeezing down.


    CLAP


    "A-AH!" Irene screamed, feeling his cock shoot through her being, splitting her insides forcefully apart before snuggling back into its rightful place.


    The hot water cascaded down her back, but all other sensations faded, consumed by the pleasure that took root in her mind, holding it in a tight, unyielding grip.


    Her head slowly dropped downwards, her knee''s wobbling and her hands slipping down the tiles only for Ricky to mind up his hips.


    CLAP


    The applause resounded in the bathroom once more, fiercely narrating the sight of Irene''s ass being railed.


    Irene felt the air evacuate from her lungs with the force of the gut-punch that thrusted into her, forcing the pleasure to not only occupy her mind, but sink deep into her core.


    "Atta girl~" Ricky encouraged, holding Irene up by her love handles while pressing her forward.


    Her body pressed against the tiles, her fatty breasts pushing into them, expanding as her cheek rested softly against the cool surface.


    CLAP


    "AH~"


    CLAP


    "AH~"


    CLAP


    "AH~"


    Irene, the same woman who thought she had buried the crippling pleasure she''d felt in the back of that Ford, was now being forcefully reminded of it at this very moment.


    Her ass being punished by Ricky''s hips, letting out wails along with Irene''s sultry mouth ruthless treatment being induced upon her folds.


    Ricky''s cock ruthlessly pulled back from the warm, fleshy depths of her body before thrusting back in with a force that made Irene squeal.


    Ramming vicious backshots into Irene''s pussy, Ricky pounded into Irene with sloppy, unforgiving force, each thrust erratic and desperate, as he lost himself in the wild, reckless pleasure of it all.


    Contrary to his previous efforts in making Irene comfortable, now he was entirely focused on satisfying himself while Irene took the brutal end of this shameless pursuit of pleasure.


    "AH~" Irene moaned out like some sort of broken record, pinned against the wall so she couldn''t fall.


    Haggard, only for this, her moans were sultry, almost filthy, slipping from her lips with a desperation that matched the chaos of the moment.


    Irene was remembering this crippling expression that made her body mere silly puddy under Ricky''s influence.


    How he played with her body, treating it like some outlet to vent out his own desires but instead of complaining, she was almost suffering under the pleasure.


    But even now, it felt different since back then, it was about adjusting to his size, but now, it was about how her body accepted him with ease, taking him in almost effortlessly.


    At an innocent time where his size had stretched her to her limits, now it felt like a perfect fit. His cock slammed deep, each thrust unrelenting but igniting new sensations, a sensation of fullness that didn''t overwhelm her, but instead, left her craving more. It was as if her body had molded to him, yearning for him almost, instinctively understanding the rhythm, the pressure, and the raw, aching need he induced within her. The way he filled her now was different, familiar, but with a deeper, more consuming pull that left her reeling with nothing but the pleasureful exchange of his cock.


    CLAP


    "AHHHH~" Irene squealed out a moan, followed by a trembling splash of nectar after his cock hit that exact right spot.


    Grappling with the weight of her own climax, Irene didn''t even have time to relish in its pleasure as just when she was about to close her eyes, they snapped back open.


    "HA-AH~" Irene stuttered out another moan, almost forced to prolong this pleasure that crippled her entire thinking.


    Her insides pushed apart, gaping at the will of Ricky''s cock which resumed its pace while completely disregarding the fact her pusy reached a fulfilling state.


    The only end of this exchange was her insides being turned into a cream-filled treat under the syringe of his cock.


    Gripping onto her baked goods, his fingers gripped tightly into her waist while relishing in the gripping sensation that accompanied his cock.


    Irene''s pussy was perfect, everything feeling just right and completely tailored to Ricky''s whims.


    It was why Ricky had become so lost in the exchange, arching his head up as the hot water doused him with the revelation that he was indeed inside heaven.


    "I''m home~" Ricky thought out loud, his words catching in Irene''s ears as it made her blush before her head arched upwards in the next second.


    CLAP


    "RICKY~" Irene made the grave mistake of moaning his name, the veins in his neck suddenly pulsing as he slowly turned his head downwards.


    It wasn''t a dramatic shift, just subtle, but his grip slowly tightened around her curves, sinking into her flesh before he wound up, ready to push her further.


    CLAP


    The sound was deafening, completely encompassing, resounding the fanatic clap of Irene''s ass being pulverized to the extreme.


    There was no mercy in that thrust, no hesitation, just pure need as it all stemmed from one mistake Irene would continue to make, over and over again.


    "RICKYYYYYYYYYY~" Irene screeched, her tone and insides completely filled with his being which resounded out in pure and unbridled pleasure.


    It felt as if a demon was possessing Ricky in this moment, pulling back without even admiring the gleam of his shaft, coated in the sweet nectar of her juices but instead, ferociously ramming it back in.


    CLAP


    "RI-"


    CLAP


    "KGDSP-"


    CLAP


    "GNGDS-"


    CLAP


    Irene''s body was being completely turned into mush under the ruthless barrages of thrusts unloaded not only into her guts, churning out a pleasure that left her insides completely mangled, but also onto her psyche.


    Pure gibberish, her words and thoughts had been pounded into nothing but incoherent words that sought to moan out her aggressors name. One mistake, and moaning out that one name had turned Irene into nothing more than a limp, flesh-bound doll. Ricky''s gaze remained locked on the ass he was relentlessly pounding, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he reveled in the sight.


    Seeing it ripple, convulse, all from his sheer will while imparting nothing more than a punishment for daring to get him this riled up.


    It was in that thought process that the veins on his neck strained, feeling himself getting close while putting his absolute everything into the next thrust.


    Pulling back, his cock slathered in the slick, tearful juices of her whimpering insides, he felt his balls convulse before slamming his twitching cock all the way back into her molded insides.


    GASP


    Irene couldn''t even moan out, feeling all but gut punched by the sudden and ruthless gesture of his cock that spurted out a towering wave of cum that left her breathless.


    That erupting warmth once again consumed not only her mind, but her womb, filling it to the brim with the same batter that had baked her precious Sarah all those years ago.


    Her mouth oozing out a breathless tirade of an approval in the form of a trembling climax, cumming at the sheer feeling of his cum nestling into her womb.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    Enchained to each other, steamy breaths rang out in the hot shower as Ricky had completely pressed his body into Irene, pinning her to the wall to get even an inch deeper while releasing his cum as far as he could.


    Resting his head on his shoulder, he waited for her to calm down until her breaths were a relatively normal but haggard form.


    Kissing the back of her neck, leaving even more marks on her body until she slowly gazed back at him, her eyes filled to the brim like her womb with warmth as she gently caressed his chin.


    "Come here~" Ricky couldn''t help himself, brining her lips towards his as even in her dazed state, she was way too innocent to not be ruined by him.


    They sort of sat there, Ricky swirling his tongue around the obedience of Irene who wrapped her arms around his neck.


    Eventually, they stumbled out of the shower, Irene having to sit on the toilet as her legs wobbled, already too weak to support her.


    Minutes passed by as they dried off as Ricky sat on the bathroom floor, wearing a robe while the smiling Irene dried off his hair.


    "Done!" Irene cheerfully announced, taking the towel off as Ricky parted his hand through it and slicking it back.


    "Are you good to walk or?" Ricky asked, seeing Irene blush and shamelessly hold out her hands even though she could stand up on her own.


    Ricky only smiled, picking her up into a princess carry with two silk robes adorning her being only to gently lay her down on the bed.


    However, as Irene looked up at him, her cheeks flushed and her gaze full of longing, the soft fabric of her silk robe parted to reveal her full breasts, their weight slightly pulling them down.


    The lingering evidence of his cum still glistening on her folds, and at the sight, his body responded, slowly stiffening once more.


    Irene simply smiled at this revelation on his face, happy that he would even want her as she gently caressed his chin, signaling that it was alright.


    Leaning down, Ricky lips gently kissed her luscious red lips, but instead of rough, this time it was a tender embrace.


    His hands gently interlocked with hers, pinning them down against the bed as he slowly lowered his hips, pressing them against her waist.


    "Ha~" Irene moaned, breaking the kiss first only for Ricky to duck his head into the crevasse of her neck, warning to pry more of those beautiful moans out of her sultry lips.


    Once again, his cock submerged into her already lathered insides, and instead of continuing the wrecking and carnage that had utterly ruined Irene for anyone else, it was gentle this time.


    Wanting to truly feel every little nudge, every bump, that her being had to offer as his tip graced and delicately traveled along her walls to take it all in.


    The storm that had once wreaked havoc had now turned into a gentle day, serenading Irene''s being with the soft touch of a breeze, a quiet pleasure.


    "Ah~"


    Each breath she took, each shiver that passed through her, only drove him deeper into a hunger he couldn''t ignore. Her body seemed to speak to him, responding with a pleasure that matched his own desire. Ricky moved slowly, deliberately, savoring every inch, every second, as if time itself had slowed to the rhythm of their bodies. Her voice tugged at him, desperate now, urging him closer, urging him to take more, needing him to take more.


    And he did, losing himself in the pull of her, the heat, the wanting, until nothing existed but the two of them, entwined in such a way that they felt as if they were one.


    Opening her teary eyes, Irene gazed up at Ricky''s smile, feeling its warmth and comfort, feeling as if she were a moth drawn to the flame of his desire, unable to resist the pull of him.


    There was no fierce slamming of the bed frame, no brutal slapping of their flesh, only pure, unbridled passion, the culmination of their bodies entwined in a deep, intimate exchange.


    Right now, it wasn''t about lust, but about appreciating each other in ways that had been lost throughout the ages, yet were now being discovered for the first time between them.


    There was no need for words, their silence overwhelmed by the gravitational pull of their lips colliding like atoms, only this time, never parting.


    They moved in a slow, swirling rhythm, each shift of their bodies drawing them deeper into the moment. Irene felt every inch of him, his presence wholly encompassing every part of her being, while Ricky sensed the gentle coil around his cock, her warmth wrapping around him, reassuring him that everything would be alright.


    It was why they both felt the impending climax of their shared passion, the growing pleasure not defined by reckless abandon, but by a deep, mutual connection, a sense of love that enveloped them.


    As the moment drew closer, neither of them could hold back the overwhelming wave of pleasure and need that just seemed to pulse between them. Every touch, every little twitch was merely a reaffirmation of what they had, and in this pace, it was as if time itself had stopped, telling one another without even speaking that nothing mattered but the closeness they shared. Irene''s breath hitched as she felt the intensity build, a quiet whisper of her name spelling on her tongue by Ricky, anchoring her, grounding her in this shared reality. They moved together like a shared heartbeat, their bodies pounding against one another in a gentle rhythm, deepening with every shared movement, every shared breath.


    And then, with a final, slow crescendo, they came together, an eruption but that of connection, of fulfillment, one that transcended mere pleasure, leaving them breathless.


    Their bodies trembled against one another as Irene felt the warmth of his release ripple through her, while Ricky sensed her insides gently contract in a silent expression of affection.


    It was a perfect climax that was stimulated by the touch of one another, leaving them fully satisfied in what they both shared.


    As they released their lips, no words were needed as Irene snuggled into his embrace upon Ricky falling to the side.


    Relishing in his warmth, in his assurance that he would always be there for her, left Irene able to sleep without any worries for the first time in a long time.


    However, Ricky still sat awake since there was something on his mind other than the window of Irene.


    Ding


    [Mission received: Irene Jenkins]


    Difficulty: Easy


    Character Sheet: D


    Description: Born into a well-rounded Christian family, Irene had been sheltered her entire life, never even kissing a boy. However, her countless years of diligent studying paid off when she received a full scholarship to a prestigious school. Growing up in such a closed-off household left her with troubled thoughts, longing to experience what her friends in high school desired¡ªmainly boys and alcohol.


    Objective: Knock up this busty redhead and make her realize why its good to learn sex ed.


    Main Mission: 10,000 (Completed)


    Impregnante Irene Once(Completed):


    Rewards: 50 Gacha Impregnate Irene Twice:


    Rewards: 5 Uncommon Gacha or Irene''s Skills


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnante Irene with her first ever time(Completed)


    Reward: Rare Equipment Coupon


    Get Irene to beg you to come inside her(Completed)


    Reward: Rare/Uncommon skill Coupon


    Make Irene climax with your creampie(Completed)


    Reward: +5 Appearance


    Bonus Missions:


    Get Irene to sloppy clean your dick(Completed):


    Reward IP: 5,000


    ?????????????


    Capture Irene''s Heart(Completed): Reward: 25,000 IP


    ?????????????


    Cum inside Irene two or more times(Completed):


    Reward: +2 Stamina


    ?????????????


    ''Choose the gacha.'' Ricky thought, knowing how important it was to find more items which, when he took the time to notice, were all uncommon.


    Ding


    [Received:


    (Uncommon Item) Running Shoes: A pair of new running shoes designed to comfort the feet of those having to run a great distance. X 2


    (Uncommon Item) Steel Whistle: A regular whistle made from nothing but pure steel. X 3


    Ricky surveyed the rewards, really taking the time to understand them and making a note of the shoes before pulling out a single coupon.


    More specifically the ''Legendary Rank-Up Familiar Coupon'' and without even thinking, he used it.


    Although he respected Chester, there was only one being in this world that Ricky respected on the same level as Lucky and that was Alexander.


    Ricky had honestly brutalized the image of Alexander The Great by forcing him into not only his familiar, but the body of the gerbil.


    He initially treated him like trash, completely disregarding his existence, only to later regret it. Alexander had always been there, literally always. Through every struggle, every low point in his life, Alexander stood by him. Though the gerbil had already considered him a comrade, Ricky regarded him as a dear friend.


    ''You deserve this buddy.'' Ricky thought, watching the coupon melt away in his hand as he gazed at the system window. Meanwhile at the Luciano Manor, "Ah I see, I see." Chuck, the undead wraith mage of Ricky, rubbed his boney chin at the game he was currently playing.


    In the basement of the Luciano manor stood the most powerful of his undead army. The ordinary cannon fodder were scattered around the grounds, constantly patrolling for intruders, while the primary servants were stationed within the manor''s basement. To put it simply, they served to protect the main members of the Luciano family, led by Boney, Chuck, and the newly-formed Corpse Colossus.


    Dewey, however, was deliberately left out, condemned to a more tortuous existence. Ricky had ruthlessly ordered him to guard France and protect her, along with his growing bastard she carried.


    This cruel fate eternally tied him to the task of witnessing the birth of Ricky''s bastards, while Dewey was forced to watch France develop a family with him, something he never had all while being trapped in his own vessel, unable to do anything but watch France''s happiness unfold without her even knowing who her protector was.


    But the others simply chilled in the basement, alongside Alexander and Chester, who also hung around them.


    "Of course, our master is developing his mind through these sorts of games, constantly refining himself even in his most relaxed state, truly marvelous." Chuck expertly deduced the wrong reasoning, sticking his non-existent nose into the air as Boney nodded from the side.


    "Oh, I get it now!" Boney gasped, thinking this was some sort of child''s game but never realizing it had such deeper meaning.


    "That is-"


    "Chester, my friend, it is no use, trust this old soul." Alexander halted Chester''s words, knowing better than anyone how weirdly obsessed these two summons were with Ricky.


    "KiLL meeEEeee~" Corpse Colossus begged from the side, chained to the fleshy abomination they all saw before them but they all ignored its whines since that''s all it said.


    "Then if it is my turn, Alexander, give me your three, four, and jack." Chuck outstretched his skeletal hand, knowing the cards the gerbil had which made him flinch.


    "Wha-HOW!?" Alexander roared, watching helplessly as Chuck took his cards without any care.


    "Now-"


    Whoosh


    Suddenly, to the shock and interruption of everyone in the basement, Alexander''s entire body started glowing in a golden light.


    "Huh?" Alexander gazed down, not looking at the translator ring wrapped around his belly but the golden aura surrounding him.


    However, just as Alexander emitted a faint glow, it vanished as quickly as it had appeared, leaving everyone confused, except the gerbil, who suddenly heard the call of an old friend.


    "Alexander, are you alright?" Chester asked, his voice tinged with worry, as he saw Alexander completely frozen, stiff as stone.


    "Heed my call!" Alexander roared, his small paw glowing with golden light as the light shot out suddenly, swirling before them all, creating an eerie, yet majestic spectacle.


    Before the eyes of all those privy to it, the golden light started to birth the arrival of the very stead that Alexander used in order to conquer any lands within his sight.


    The steed that made his enemies tremble at its mere name, the very ground beneath its hooves quaking at its might, and the greatest battle stead ever breed in Mount Olympus.


    "Bucephalus!" Alexander commanded, reminding the world of the name itself. With his roar, the mighty steed appeared before them all, its presence a force that seemed to command the very air around it.


    Once the golden light faded, they all bore witness to its coat, a deep, gleaming black, rippled with muscle beneath the surface, every inch of it built for speed and strength. The horse''s neck was thick and strong, like a tower of muscle, leading to a broad chest that seemed to swell with raw, untamed energy. Its legs, thick and sturdy, were covered in powerful sinew, each movement able to cause the ground to visibly shake in its wake and crush anything in its path. Its broad shoulders and muscular haunches suggested it could carry any burden, while its fiery eyes glinted with a fierce intelligence, ready for battle at a moment''s notice. This was Bucephalus, the epitome of a warhorse, an unyielding force that inspired fear and awe in all who faced it.


    "WHO''S A GOOD BOY, WHO''S A PRECIOUS WARHORSE!" Alexander suddenly said in a baby voice towards the warhorse, its mighty eyes gazing down and peering into the soul of this mere gerbil before its hollow eyes gained life.


    BAM


    BAM


    BAM


    The entire basement, along with the house itself, shook violently as Bucephalus rose to its full height, its muscles rippling with each movement. With a fierce joy, it slammed its hooves down, completely obliterating the concrete beneath it, sending a wave of destruction through the floor below.


    "THAT''S RIGHT, YOU''RE A GOOD BOY, YOU''RE A PRECIOUS WARHORSE!" Alexander excitedly cooed his most trusted friend, leaping onto its mane and hugging it tightly.


    "What''s going on!" Raven yelled, knowing that they got rowdy at times but never to this extent until she saw the towering horse in the basement.


    "Huh?" Raven couldn''t help but ask, trying to remember when Ricky got a horse but no memory ever surfaced.


    "Ah, where are my manners!" Alexander exclaimed boastfully, turning to face the shocked, wide-eyed expressions of those who had borne witness to his steed''s greatness.


    "This is my most cherished steed, the one I rode into every battle, and the very same that was gifted to me by Mount Olympus." Alexander gestured proudly towards the horse, which stood tall, its head held high in undeniable pride. It was clear the creature understood the weight of his words, this was no ordinary horse.


    DING


    (Epic¡úLegendary Familiar) Alexander the Gerbil (Favorability: 100)


    Description: Alexander the Great has possessed your Gerbil.


    Dual Link: 8¡ú20 minutes


    ¨CSkills:


    (Mythic Skill) Bucephalus, the Heroic Steed: Bucephalus is a Heroic Spirit that can now be summoned by Alexander. It embodies the strength and might that goes with the title as Alexander''s greatest companion.


    Powers & Abilities:


    Lightning Rider: Bucephalus can ride atop lightning, charging with the speed of a divine storm, unleashing bolts of energy like the Divine Bulls of the Gordius Wheel.


    Unyielding Might: With each charge, the ground trembles beneath Bucephalus, shattering enemies with raw force. Its body can withstand even the fiercest blows.


    Lightning Rider: Bucephalus can ride atop lightning, charging with the speed of a divine storm, unleashing bolts of energy like the Divine Bulls of the Gordius Wheel.


    Unyielding Might: With each charge, the ground trembles beneath Bucephalus, shattering enemies with raw force. Its body can withstand even the fiercest blows.


    Divine Presence: Summoning Bucephalus enhances Alexander''s strength and combat instincts, making him a near-unstoppable force on the battlefield.


    "This is Bucephalus!"

 Chapter 154 - 149: There Is Never Any Downtime Nowadays

    Chapter 154 - 149: There Is Never Any Downtime Nowadays


    "CLERP, CLERP!" Ricky''s eyes snapped open, his heart pounding as a naked Irene clung to his side as he bolted upright, his wild gaze darting toward the window.


    There, before his eyes, was a sight so unbelievable that no one would ever take him seriously and yet, to this day, he swears that he saw a retarted cross-eyed bluejay.


    It didn''t even chirp properly, its call distorted and offbeat, while its oddly misshapen head added to the unsettling sight, like the crowning achievement of generations of inbreeding gone horribly wrong.


    Ricky''s face twisted in a mix of disgust and disbelief, really taking a second to admire the grossness of it since it felt as if he couldn''t look away.


    CRACK


    Then, without hesitation, the bird launched itself from the branch, only to crash headfirst into the glass window with a sickening thud, snapping its neck on impact.


    "What the fu-"


    "Huh, what is it?" Irene tiredly asked, still clinging to him as she raised her head to see his confused expression.


    "A suicidal bird, Ithink?" Ricky was almost speechless, watching some of the blue feathers slowly trickle down from the window while Irene kissed his shoulder.


    "Let''s go back to sleep-"


    "NOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Sarah whined from downstairs, screaming almost at the top of her lungs as Irene hit her forehead against his back.


    "I''ll go check on her, you get your rest." Ricky caressed her cheek, his hand gently caressing her cheek as he leaned down, his lips meeting hers in a soft, graceful touch, like some sort of unspoken promise.


    "Thank you," Irene smiled, her body aching from last night, knowing how much she needed that rest as he slowly sat up beside her.


    Walking over to the closet, Ricky''s eyes fell on a white, puffy robe, meant for Carlo''s mother, that now seemed destined to be draped around his bare form.


    As Ricky descended the spiral stairs, Sarah''s frustrations echoed through the air as he eventually made his way to the kitchen, where he found his new capo, Johnny, locked in a heated argument with his kid.


    "First of all, you can''t be a Yankees fan. All of Luciano''s family are New York Giants fans." Johnny slammed his hands on the counter, his resolve clear as he tried to convert her to the dark side.


    "No!" Sarah pouted, crossing her arms defiantly, her Yankees baseball cap sitting snugly atop her head.


    "You do know that the Luciano family, your family, owns the giants-''


    "Wait, what?" Ricky asked, stepping in from the side as he walked over to the refrigerator, noticing Sarah holding up her empty plate and pointing to her stomach, signaling she wanted breakfast.


    "Since when?" Ricky asked, holding up the egg carton and Sarah nodded, her silent confirmation clear as he also pulled out some Wonder Bread.


    "B-Boss?!" Johnny flinched, instinctively showing his respect to Ricky by ducking his head but he gestured for him to sit next to Sarah for breakfast.


    "You didn''t know? Lucky bought the team back when he was still the boss," Johnny said, watching Ricky Luciano, the head of the Luciano family, start to make a casual breakfast.


    "Really?"


    Ricky didn''t remember much, as the conversation had been so brief but four years ago, when he was beginning to question what to do with his money before ultimately sinking it all into Coca-Cola, he had unknowingly altered the future.


    FLASHBACK CHAPTER 52


    "We should buy a sports team." Ricky suddenly spoke up, causing Lucky to lower the paper and raise an eyebrow in curiosity.


    "That''s-...........that''s actually a good way to launder money." Lucky was about to say something but then realized he could pamper the books with more people than there were and no one would actually count them.


    "That''s a really good idea." Lucky took out a little notebook and started writing something down before looking back up.


    "Baseball, right?" Lucky asked, but Ricky simply shrugged.


    "Yeah sure." Ricky took a bite of his eggs while Lucky began pondering which team to choose.


    "We can''t strong arm the yank''s since their huge cause of that Babe Ruth, what do you think of the New York Giants?" Lucky asked as Ricky tilted his head.


    "The football team?" Ricky asked, and Lucky tilted his head in response.


    "Football, that crappy sport?" Lucky set down his glasses and gazed at Ricky weirdly.


    "Crappy?" Ricky was also confused until he remembered that he hadn''t heard about football at all.


    "And Baseball isn''t the most boring sport ever?" Ricky retorted but Lucky only gave him a weird look.


    "Nevermind." Ricky saw Lucky wasn''t about to budge; he had better things to worry about and Lucky started writing something back down in his notebook.


    Baseball was enormous here in New York, or at least it seemed to be during this era, since he''d never encountered anyone who didn''t bring it up in conversation.


    "Nevermind." Ricky saw Lucky wasn''t about to budge; he had better things to worry about and Lucky started writing something back down in his notebook.


    "It might cost a pretty penny," Lucky said with a smirk, already deep in thought. "But from the rumors I''ve heard about Charles, the owner of the New York Giants, and the American soccer league, I''m confident we could strike a deal." Lucky began mapping out his plans while Ricky rose from his seat.


    As Ricky left to handle his own affairs, Lucky lingered in thought, his cane tapping softly against the floor in a steady rhythm. Although the move forming in his mind was bold, the opportunity was too ripe to ignore. He knew timing was everything in their line of work, and now, in 1932, the game was as much about guile as it was muscle.


    Baseball games were a perfect front for laundering money since back then, the sport''s main revenue streams came from home games, concessions, and jersey sales, almost entirely transacted in cash.


    The scheme concocting in Lucky mind was simple yet effective: suppose 1,000 people attended a game, each paying 35 cents a ticket. A savvy operator like Lucky would cook the books, inflating the attendance to 1,500 and then the extra ''tickets sold'' accounted for the dirty money he needed to funnel through the organization.


    Once the money passed through the books, it was taxed and deemed legitimate. By the time it came out the other side, it was clean and Lucky, often reinvested these laundered funds back into the business, ensuring the operation not only stayed afloat but thrived. It was a cycle of growth and control, and Lucky never let an opportunity to tighten his grip on this city go unwasted.


    This cycle would also repeat, each iteration compounding the scheme''s success, with concessions folded seamlessly into the process. The money moved smoothly, laundering itself again and again, but there was one crucial step Lucky had to take before the plan could truly flourish, he had to acquire the team.


    Soon after Ricky left, Lucky followed, stepping into his chauffeured car, however, instead of his usual destination, he made a different stop.


    "Aye, Pete, drive me to Brain''s operations before heading to the Giants'' headquarters," Lucky instructed, leaning back and rubbing his chin as he pieced together the strategy he would be using later.


    Those few simple words guided Lucky straight to the office of none other than Charles Abraham Stoneham.


    To understand the man behind the name, a brief history of Stoneham''s career paints the picture of a figure as cunning as he was controversial. Born into the world of finance, Stoneham began humbly as a board boy in a bustling New York City brokerage office, tasked with updating stock transactions but his sharp instincts and ambition soon elevated him to the role of stock salesman.


    By 1913, he had established his own brokerage, Charles A. Stoneham & Company, where he built his fortune. Not one to limit his ventures, he expanded his reach in 1917 by purchasing the Sierra Nevada mine in Jefferson, Nevada. However, his business empire took a precarious turn in 1921 when he dissolved his brokerage, persuading his investors to transfer their accounts to other New York firms.


    The collapse of one such firm, E.M. Fuller & Company, in 1922, triggered a high-profile bankruptcy case that implicated Stoneham. Accusations surfaced that he had been a silent partner and had lied under oath during the investigation as the scandal culminated in his indictment for perjury by a Federal grand jury on August 31, 1923.


    As this legal storm brewed, another brokerage tied to Stoneham''s dealings, E.D. Dier & Company, also folded. Once again, criminal allegations surrounded him, leading to a second indictment in September 1923, this time for mail fraud in connection to defrauding Dier''s clients. Yet Stoneham, ever slippery, emerged unscathed and he was acquitted of all charges, his reputation bruised but his wealth and influence intact which he used to buy the New York Giants.


    What truly set Charles Stoneham on an uncharted path was a fateful ultimatum delivered by the league''s commissioner: sell his gambling houses or forfeit his stake in the New York Giants.


    Faced with no other choice, Charles resolved to stake everything on sports, believing it to be the future.


    Despite his determination, the echoes of late-night gambling sessions still haunted him, reminders of a life he had left behind but could never entirely escape. It was this boldness, this relentless drive to prove himself, that pushed Charles further into the realm of sports. He poured the last of his wealth into the American Soccer League, convinced it would be his next triumph.


    But when the Great Depression struck, those dreams collapsed and those aspirations of owning a successful soccer team disintegrated, taking with them the remainder of his fortune.


    Now, afflicted with Bright''s disease, Charles''s health was failing, leaving him with only one treasure of value, the New York Giants. But even that last lifeline was slipping through his grasp as Lucky stepped into his office, ready to seize the opportunity.


    "If it ain''t the last person I expected to walk into my office, Lucky Luciano," Charles''s morbidly obese form greeted, his voice and breath heavy with surprise.


    "In the flesh," Lucky said, spreading his arms wide and smiling from ear to ear while Charles gave a slow nod in response.


    "I would get up and shake your hand but-"


    "You stuck in that chair?" Lucky interrupted, teasing the man and Charles nearly cackled, struggling to contain his laughter as he shifted in his seat.


    "Oh, Lucky, you dog!" Charles laughed, slapping the armrest of his chair before he winced slightly, struggling to move due to his kidney inflammation. Most days, he was confined to the chair, which explained why he had become so morbidly obese.


    "It''s nice to see you again Charles, I-"


    "Oh, come on, Lucky, you know I''m not one of those suckers. Just give it to me straight, what do you want, or what do I owe you?" Charles chuckled, already aware of the game and deciding it was better to play along than pretend otherwise.


    "Ha~" Lucky let out a long, drawn-out laugh, leaning back as he looked at Charles as he casually rubbed his thumb against the top of his ivory cane, a glint of thoughtfulness in his eyes.


    "I bought your debts from Arnold ''The Brain'' Rothstein." Lucky said with a sad smile, turning his gaze upward slightly as Charles sighed, rubbing his mouth as he processed the news.


    "Damn, so I''m on the other end of the table now." Charles muttered, a touch of irony in his voice. He had literally built his wealth by being in Lucky''s position, and now, here he was.


    Charles built his fortune by specializing in buying up company debt, using it as leverage to exert control.


    If a company failed to repay, he''d take the next calculated step, betting against them by orchestrating a decline in their stock value through a network of outside buyers.


    If a company failed to repay, he''d take the next calculated step, betting against them by orchestrating a decline in their stock value through a network of outside buyers.


    It was illegal, sure, but only fools believed wealth came from hard work alone. True fortune wasn''t earned; it was taken.


    You could toil your way to being a millionaire, maybe, but to reach the heights of a billionaire?


    That required stepping on necks and stabbing backs and wealth wasn''t just a game, it was a war, and Charles played to win.


    But unfortunately, so did others and this time, he was on the defensive.


    "Let me guess, it''s a lot," Charles asked, leaning over the desk, his neck''s flab sagging as he studied Lucky.


    "And let me take another guess, I have something you want." Charles raised an eyebrow, watching as Lucky''s smile grew.


    Lucky didn''t need to say a word; his actions spoke volumes. With a slow, deliberate motion, he spread his arms wide, a subtle smile tugging at the corner of his lips. Charles''s eyes widened in response, the realization dawning on him like a heavy weight settling in his chest.


    "Lucky, no-"


    "Charles."


    "This is all I have-"


    "Charles."


    "This is my legacy-"


    "Charles." Eventually, Lucky''s voice, steady and unwavering, grew to dominate the room, each word carrying the weight of inevitability as his tone never changed, yet it towered over Charles, crushing him with its sheer presence. Lucky''s gaze was unrelenting, deadly, cold, and resolute as he stared down at the dying man, poised to strip away the very last thing he had left.


    "You got too many bad debts, now all owned by me." Lucky words were calm and concise, walking Charles through the process since he could no longer stand on his own two feet.


    "You''ve been a busy man, Charles. I mean, America''s suffering its biggest setback, and here you are gambling with enough money to feed a hundred families." Lucky stood up from his chair, admiring the multiple portraits of the team and its players, though there were no trophies in sight.


    "Lucky, listen, I can pay it back-"


    "Charles, buddy, you''re 350,000 in the hole," Lucky chuckled, turning around as his words silenced Charles, who froze when Lucky stopped in front of the first Giants'' group photo.


    "Your soccer team failed, and now you''re left with even more bad debt, which won''t be covered by all the savings from its dissolution." Lucky narrated Charles'' situation, spelling out only one end to his story, bankruptcy.


    "So I''m gonna give you an offer." Lucky pulled out a check, placing it on Charles''s desk as he watched him intently.


    "You paid a million for this team before the crash, so I''ll humor you. I''ll wipe your debt clean and give you a fresh check for 750K," Lucky emphasized, making it clear that he bought the team before the crash, meaning the organization hadn''t increased in value, it had actually decreased.


    "You''ll cash out, live out the rest of your days, and pass on the remainder to your kid," Lucky said, slowly backing up all while Charles gulped, looking up at Lucky, whose eyes had turned fierce.


    "And before you ask, if I walk out of here today without what I want, I''ll recoup it in interest," Lucky added, his tone cold and unwavering, making Charles slightly avert his eyes since that only meant one thing.


    "Then, when I''ve broken you down into digestible-sized pieces, I''ll devour you whole for pennies on the dollar. So take the money, while I''m still being nice." Lucky knew Charles, and more than that, actually liked the man, but this was something he wanted, and that was enough.


    Charles looked at the check, his hand clenching into a fist as the only one who should''ve known about this was Brain, but it was useless now.


    He knew that Lucky would never let him go now, his gaze fixed on him like a predator and although Charles might have been a snake, when he looked at Lucky, all he saw was a lion.


    FLASHBACK END


    "So Charles sold the team to Lucky and it''s been under Luciano management since then." Johnny explained, munching on the eggs along with Sarah who was weirdly putting ketchup on them.


    Unbeknownst to Ricky, the Luciano family''s influence extended beyond organized crime and into the world of baseball fandom. Everyone within the family and those living in their territories gradually became fervent fans of the New York Giants. This shift sparked an unexpected phenomenon: New Yorkers, who had long favored the Yankees, began to buckle under social pressures, with a significant number, primarily residents of Harlem along with Brooklyn, switching their allegiance to the Giants.


    Over the years, this transformation fueled a fierce rivalry that divided the city not just by boroughs but by class. The territories under Luciano control, dominated by the working and lower-middle classes, rallied behind the Giants. Meanwhile, the wealthier residents, insulated from the Luciano family''s sway and rarely venturing into their influence, remained loyal to the Yankees.


    This brewing tension culminated in an infamous event later dubbed the "Scrap Yard of ''34".


    On September 13, 1934, players from the Yankees and Giants dugouts clashed in a full-blown fight, spilling onto the field. But the fight didn''t stop there; the fans took the battle into the streets, escalating into a city-wide melee and law enforcement had to mobilize every available unit to contain the pandemonium.


    It was absolute madness, one of the most violent chapters in the city''s sport history, and all a ripple effect of Ricky''s influence. The rivalry that emerged became legendary, one of the bloodiest and most heated in baseball''s storied past.


    "Well, would you look at that?" Ricky muttered, munched on a piece of perfectly cooked toast, shrugging as he now became a Giants fan.


    "And I''m trying to convert the newest princess here but she says she likes the Yankees cause of their colors, but she needs to be a giants fan-"


    "NO!" Sarah pouted, scrunching her brows at Johnny who held up one of the Giants caps.


    "YES!"


    "NO!"


    "Sarah." Ricky called out, finishing his piece of toast and grabbing the cap.


    "Yeah, daddy?" Sarah looked over at Ricky, accepting him as her father after the pasta he cooked her last night, knowing that only someone who could make that good of food could be her daddy.


    "You''re a Giants fan." Ricky lectured her, putting the Giants cap on her head as she gave him a tooth smile.


    "Okay!" Sarah happily agreed, turning back to her own toast as Johnny mouth hung agape at how easy it was for him.


    Smiling, Ricky wiped a smudge of ketchup from Sarah''s face as she continued eating without a care in the world.


    "I gotta go to work. Let your mommy sleep in, got it?" Ricky raised a brow, watching Sarah munch on her toast without acknowledging him.


    It was then that Ricky started writing a small note, carefully placing it next to a plate filled with his home-cooked breakfast.


    "Okay!" Sarah chirped, reaching for another piece of toast as Ricky gestured for Johnny to step aside.


    "How are the kids?" Ricky asked, his question layered with complexities, referring not to children but to the new generation of Luciano family grunts.


    "They''re good," Johnny replied quickly, ducking his head and Ricky sighed, coming to a stop and pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration.


    "But?"


    "But, none of them get along and it''s not even close."


    "F*ck Johnny." Ricky sighed, walking out of the mansion with an annoyed expression while Johnny hurried behind him.


    "It''s gonna take time, these things-"


    "Johnny, listen to me." Ricky began, his tone sharp with frustration, holding back his anger since it wasn''t Johnny''s fault that the kids hated one another. "I need this to happen. I need to flip the mutants from under the control of those damn eyeballs, but I can''t do that if I don''t even get a f*cking smidge of progress." Ricky''s voice rose slightly as his irritation showed, watching Johnny rub the back of his neck awkwardly.


    Sigh


    "Just keep at it Johnny, I need them to mesh, it''s important to the future of the Lucaino family." Ricky waved Johnny off, walking down the steps of the mansion with a light sigh.


    "Go above and beyond if need be because I need this to work, but it can''t have my direct influence or they''ll never get along by themselves." Ricky found himself at a crossroads as he could see the future he envisioned for the family, a unified, unstoppable powerhouse, but forcing it into reality too quickly would risk shattering everything. The old guys were too stubborn and immovable, they obeyed Ricky only out of respect for his position as boss, not because they truly believed in his vision.


    The younger generation, however, was a different story. Their ideals and values were still malleable, open to influence and change.


    Ricky knew this was his opportunity and if he played his cards right, he could shape them, instilling the principles and ambitions that aligned with his vision for the Luciano family''s future. It was a low move, perhaps, but Ricky was pragmatic and the ends justified the means, and he would do whatever it took to secure the legacy he dreamed of.


    Ricky was beginning to bloom as a leader, finally setting a goal, planting the seeds, but needing some f*cking rain to really blossom.


    "I need this, Johnny, and you know how much I reward people who pull through for me," Ricky said, descending the steps with purpose whileJohnny hesitated, watching Ricky walk down the path, his presence commanding even from behind.


    However unlike others who wanted to branch off, Johnny wanted to see what it was Ricky wanted to become, where he wanted to lead the Luciano family, and ultimately gained another loyal follower as he rushed after him.


    "I swear, boss, I won''t let you down!" Johnny called out, his voice laced with determination. Before he could say anything more, Ricky casually opened a portal and stepped through, vanishing without another word. Left alone, Johnny stood there, scratching his head as he grappled with the daunting task of uniting two social classes that despised each other.


    Eventually, Irene came downstairs, rubbing her lower back as she made her way to the freshly brewed pot of coffee. A smile crept across her face when she saw Sarah doing a little dance while eating her breakfast. It was then that Irene noticed her own plate, and on it, a note as she slowly reached for it, and read the words, that made her smile grow even sweeter.


    I had some work I had to take care of, but I made you a little something.


    P.S. You''re gorgeous, don''t ever let anyone tell you differently. And if they do, come find me, I''ll take care of them just like I''ll always take care of you.


    Ricky


    "Oh Ricky~"


    Arriving at the Luciano family manor, Ricky was eager to grab Chester for some help with the DD14s as he didn''t fully understand them yet and figured Chester could shed some light on the matter while seeing what Alexander was up to.


    But most of all, Ricky wanted to check on Raven, knowing that the whole suicide ordeal was really weighing on her mind. Honestly, he hadn''t seen it coming at all, he''d expected either a heated fling or some long-standing grudge between Irene Adler, but everything had flipped on its head when she went and offed herself, willingly.


    BOOM


    A loud boom echoed through the air, and without a second thought, Ricky launched himself forward. He used his barriers as stepping stones to run through the air, leaping over the mansion and landing in the backyard.


    "What was that-"


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Alexander''s maniacal laugh rang out, standing triumphantly on Bucephalus'' mighty form.


    "And get that one too, that damn stump has been bothering me forever," Lucky grumbled, pointing to the side as he hobbled over to a stubborn tree stump that had cost him a small fortune, and yet, it remained rooted firmly in the ground.


    "BUCEPHALUS, SHOW THEM YOUR STRENGTH!" Alexander roared, commanding his mighty steed. With a powerful charge, Bucephalus turned its body and slammed its hooves into the tree stump, shaking the ground beneath them.


    BOOM


    The tree stump nearly disintegrated under the sheer force of the horse''s power, its roots cracking and splintering as Alexander let out another triumphant cackle, reveling in the display of his steed''s towering strength.


    "I-I don''t get what I''m watching." Ricky really didn''t understand, looking around only for Raven to walk over with Danielle in her arms, resting her head on her shoulder.


    "Oh don''t act like you didn''t know." Raven scoffed, walking up to Ricky before kissing him on the cheek.


    "Okay yeah, I knew, but I didn''t think-"


    "DESTROY MY ENEMIES BUCEPHALUS, LET US CHARGE FORTH TOWARDS THE SWEET RELIEF OF DEATH OR THE GLORIOUS ACT OF VICTORY!" Alexander roared, his cry invigorating Bucephalus who was ready to charge forth into the Persian army once more if commanded.


    "He''s been like this throughout the night and all morning." Chester notified Ricky, perching atop his shoulder and looking on at Alexander reliving his glory days.


    "Can I pet the horsey now?" Danielle asked Raven in a quiet voice, pouting almost while reaching out her little hand.


    "No honey, that horse is crazy along with the gerbil riding it." Raven warmly said, kissing Danielle''s blond hair since she was the only normal one within this manor.


    It wouldn''t be strange for Raven to not understand that Ricky had women around him, in fact, she had already known about them before she even mingled with Ricky.


    Her extensive background check revealed the possibilities that he had multiple women and even some illegitimate children, but honestly, Raven wasn''t surprised. She had lived for far too long, and in too many empires and kingdoms that boasted numerous partners, to be fazed by such things.


    The only thing that mattered to her was becoming the center of focus. It wasn''t safe to say she was content with being a mistress, what she truly craved was Ricky eventually coming home to her.


    Sure, he could go out and sleep with any woman he wanted, but the main thing for her was knowing he would always come home to her, just like he was doing now.


    "Aye, good work, Alexander. Those stumps were driving me nuts." Lucky held up his thumb, reaching into his coat and pulling out the agreed-upon terms, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction.


    "And these are the rare-"


    "Sunflower seeds from the Caribbean that some of my boys got a while back, I ain''t one to short change you." Lucky held up his hand, stopping Alexander who received the bag of sunflower seeds that were bigger than him.


    "And there''s Ezmerilda with the carrots." Lucky turned to the side, seeing the woman walk over with a bucket full of carrots and other vegetables, placing it beneath Bucephalus.


    "Tiger, take them with you, because if I have to hear another speech of how that pair laid waste to their enemies, I''m going to freak out." Raven''s voice was warm and sweet, but her eyes were vicious since she could barely sleep with those two prancing around.


    Sigh


    "Yeah but I don''t wanna listen to that either-"


    "Tiger, please~" Raven purred, knowing that if the venomous approach didn''t work, then the lustful one had to do as she gently stroked her hand down his chest.


    "You know what, I think I can make it work." Ricky, thinking he was going to get some sugar tonight if he agreed, promptly agreed as Raven kissed his cheek.


    "You need anything, like some money or?" Ricky asked, reaching into his suit and grabbing his money clip.


    "Just be home for dinner." Raven patted his cheek, walking back to the house with Danielle in her arms as she waved goodbye to Ricky who returned the gesture.


    Lucky didn''t even realize Ricky had arrived; instead, he was focused on the backyard, now clear of those pesky tree stumps, already envisioning a gazebo and maybe even a pool.


    "Aye Alexander, what the hell man?" Ricky spread out his arms, looking at Alexander completely unaware of his surroundings while munching on his newly acquired sunflower seeds.


    "Ah Ricky, you''re here, great!" Alexander, upon seeing Ricky, tucked the sunflower seed into his cheek for later before standing up.


    "This is-"


    "Your mighty stead Bucephalus, I know man I heard you announce it already." Ricky finished Alexander''s words, walking up to him and this horse that looked as if he was on steroids.


    "But c''mon, man, I get you''re excited and all, but my girl and kid sleep here," Ricky frowned, not mad at all. He understood that the horse meant something to Alexander, but he just wanted to shed some light that he wasn''t the only one in the house.


    "Ah, I see. My excitement has led to my actions becoming too boisterous," Alexander muttered, finally snapping out of his mood as he had been so engrossed in meeting up with his old friend that he had forgotten exactly where he was, a residential neighborhood.


    "But may I still continue the introduction?" Alexander inquired, watching Ricky have a deadpan expression since he knew exactly what the word ''introduction'' meant to this gerbil.


    Sigh


    "Yeah go ahead-"


    AHEM


    "This is Bucephalus, the very horse I rode to cross the Hellespont, the horse that led the march towards the Persian Empire, when we broke the might of Darius and toppled the walls of Persia itself. With him, I charged through the ancient lands of Asia Minor, from the moment we first set foot on foreign soil to the sands of the Persian heartland. This is the steed that carried me through the great Battle of the Granicus, where our cavalry shattered the Persian lines, and the Battle of Issus, where we faced Darius''s vast army and struck fear into the heart of their king." Alexander immediately started his form of introduction, his words making Bucephalus swell in pride as he raised his mighty head upwards in triumph all while Ricky simply sat on a nearby bench, waiting it out.


    "Bucephalus was the one who, alongside me, broke through the enemy''s center at Gaugamela, where the Persian army stood in their thousands, certain of victory. But they did not account for the fury of our charge. The battle was a storm, a clash of two worlds, and Bucephalus charged through the storm with the determination of a god. With each strike of his hooves, we tore through their ranks, their walls of soldiers falling like waves crashing against jagged rocks." Alexander was getting a little too caught up in it, going all in while lost in the tales of their exploits as Ricky got out his deck of cards and started playing with Chester, equally uninterested.


    "Together, we conquered the great city of Persepolis, whose walls rose high and proud, mocking us as we approached. But those walls, like all others, fell before us. Bucephalus carried me through the gates of that city, leading the charge as we swept through its defenses. And there, at the heart of the Persian Empire, we broke their spirit. We did not just conquer a city, but we brought an empire to its knees. And in the end, it was Bucephalus who stood with me as we gazed upon the fall of Persia-" Alexander just rambled on, it was as if his own words prompted out more while retelling almost everything they ever did.


    Bucephalus wasn''t his horse for nothing, relishing in the tales of old while prancing around at his achievements being narrated by his most trusted rider.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    Alexander spoke until he was out of breath and just when Ricky, along with Chester, looked up, he puffed out his furry chest.


    "OH HOW MY ENEMIES TREMBLED AT THE SOUND OF BUCEPHALUS HOOVES-" Alexander roared, continuing his next iteration while Ricky slammed his forehead into the bench while Chester patted his back with his wing.


    Literally 1 hour later,


    "This horse, this warrior, is not just a companion; he is my equal. He has been with me through every victory, every hardship, and every triumph. There is no other steed in the world that could ever match him, and no other soul that could have walked beside me through the storms we faced." Alexander finally finished, hugging Bucephalus mane as the horse wanted to shed tears but he was too strong for such a weak act.


    ''This shop blows today too.'' Ricky thought, drowning out Alexander with the IP shop since he had around 310,000 points but no skill or item really screamed out towards him.


    He usually checked it once in a while, to refresh it, but nothing really grabbed his attention and it was why he closed it before seeing that Alexander was actually done.


    "Bucephalus, this is Ricky, my disciple." Alexander introduced, gesturing towards him as the horse finally looked towards him, then away, showing him that even gazing at him was no worth more than a second of his time.


    "You''re f*cking kidding me." Ricky laughed, standing up and looking a little butthurt by his introduction.


    "You spend an hour metaphorically jerking off this horse and give me just a couple of words, really?" Ricky couldn''t believe it, staring at Alexander who merely shrugged, pointing at his mighty steed as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.


    "This is Bucephalus, he is to me, what I am to you, you cannot compare-"


    "But you couldn''t at least humor me-you know what, f*ck you Alexander." Ricky laughed, flipping Alexander off while opening a portal.


    "But he is my stead-"


    "Oh I know, I know how much you love him." Ricky jerked off the air, mimicking how Alexander jerked off Bucephalus only moments ago.


    "I did not do any jerking of any kind!" Alexander was firm in this standpoint, watching Ricky wave him off while walking into the portal.


    "It was a little low to do all of that then simply say ''my disciple'' to Ricky, I think you could''ve put in a little more effort." Chester gave his honest opinion, also sitting through that entire monologue before flying into the portal after Ricky.


    "Were my efforts wrong Bucephalus-"


    SNORT


    Bucephalus snorted at the mere thought, shaking its head since they should be groveling at his riders feet for even daring to give him more than a minute of his time.


    "Hmmm, let us follow and ponder more on this issue." Alexander pointed with his little paw, commanding Bucephalus forward as the horse charged forth into the unknown of this portal.


    Arriving at Italiano''s, Ricky immediately began asking Chester about the DD14, explaining where he was getting stuck as the crow listened in.


    However, Ricky couldn''t even make it to his seat or his stack of papers before he was suddenly met with the arrival of Chores. "Oh f*ck, is something wrong with the factory?" Ricky asked, his gut tightening as the possibility of a problem loomed as he could practically feel his pockets start to drain just at the thought.


    "Wha-no, Slick, there''s a problem with the coven," Chores stepped forward, his tone heavy with urgency. It was a serious enough matter that he, the only one without any magic power, was the one tasked with delivering the news directly to Ricky.


    It was then that Alexander and Bucephalus stepped out of the portal, causing Chores to slightly tilt his head at the new addition to Ricky''s crew. Sigh


    "What''s the problem then?"


    Meanwhile in Staten Island,


    Although the island seemed quiet, with regular citizens passing by in a distorted space created by the coven, a tense situation was unfolding.


    Every single witch and warlock the coven could mobilize were unleashing dangerous amounts of magic. Hundreds of grimoires floated restlessly in the air, their pages flipping with unsettling speed. Even Agatha, her eyes narrowed, was surrounded by a swirl of purple energy, crackling and pulsing as if alive.


    Because of one woman.


    A bead of sweat trickled down Agatha''s forehead as she stared at what appeared to be an ordinary witch. However, the witch''s eyes gleamed with a dark green energy, one that pulsed ominously, signaling a looming disaster.


    "Morgana, why have you come?"


    Author''s Note: I know the arc realy should''ve ended after he took hold of the Luciano family but there''s some things I wanna fist get out of the way before building up to the next arc which is why I''m gonna extend it a bit.

 Chapter 155 - 150: Morgana Le Fey

    Chapter 155: Chapter 150: Morgana Le Fey


    "Can''t a queen indulge in a bit of sightseeing nowadays?" Morgana spoke through the girl, the body''s original owner and a true member of the coven, using her as nothing more than a temporary vessel, a mere puppet to her will.


    This girl had once been a low-ranking witch within the coven, too insignificant to even possess a grimoire.


    But with little effort and false promises, Morgana Le Fay had ensnared her, turning her into nothing more than a vessel for her will.


    A swirling mass of greenish-black energy coiled around the girl''s body, a sinister aura that sent shivers through the gathered witches.


    Terror gripped them, not only had Morgana infiltrated their sacred space unnoticed, but she had done so by seizing control of one of their own.


    "Dammit, Morgana, why are you here!" Agatha''s voice crackled with magical energy, her presence flaring with fury.


    Sigh


    Morgana merely sighed, inspecting her nails with a bored expression, as if the confrontation was nothing more than a tedious formality.


    "Oh fine, I''ll skip the usual banter and get to the point." Morgana lightly said, frowning at how her new vessel used to chew her nails before looking back at the furious Agatha.


    "I think it''s about time that me and that little Black Knight, Ricky Luciano, had a talk-"


    BOOM


    Agatha''s eyes burned with a vivid purple glow, the magic seething from her palms, volatile and deadly, ready to strike at a moment''s notice.


    "Ah, so the rumors are true, he really has ensnared your heart-"


    "Watch your next words carefully, Morgana."


    Instead of raising her voice in anger, Agatha lowered it, her tone edged with quiet menace, an unspoken warning that if Morgana uttered another word about him, there wouldn''t be any more left to say.


    "Why are you in my coven?" Agatha''s words were laced with quiet fury, each syllable razor-sharp.


    The other witches and warlocks shivered, recoiling from the overwhelming killing intent radiating from her.


    "Nothing much, but since we have time to kill, why not indulge in a little story time?" Morgana said with a lazy smile, carelessly leaning back in her chair as if the swirling grimoires around her posed no threat at all.


    Despite her calm demeanor and the otherworldly nobility that radiated from this rightful queen, a simmering anger lurked beneath the surface, poisoning every word with venom and, strangely enough, the cause of her ire was none other than Agatha.


    This anger didn''t stem from hate or jealousy, but rather from pure, unbridled annoyance, an irritation so intense it had shattered any schemes that might have unfolded, all thanks to this woman''s unwitting interventions.


    "So gather around kids, it all started when that unworthy peasant was able to completely tune me out-"


    1 year ago,


    "HOW DARE HE BAR ME FROM HIS MIND?!" Morgana bellowed, her voice echoing through the halls of her undead castle as she stormed forward, her necrotic butler, Jenkins, trailing obediently behind.


    "ARGH!" Morgana roared in fury, swiping her hand through the air and sending his head flying clean off, her foot stamping against the ground with a force that shook the chamber.


    "Your Majesty, I do not mean to intrude upon your inner conflict, but our spies within Agatha''s coven have informed me of a connection between the Black Knight and Agatha," Jenkins explained, his body calmly strolling over to his severed head and with a practiced motion, he brushed off the dust before placing it neatly back onto his shoulders.


    Within the magical world, to those privy to its most ancient truths, one of the most well-known tales is that of the fall of Camelot.


    It is said that Britain''s mightiest kingdom was torn asunder by countless foreign invaders, which is true, but history conceals the true account.


    Camelot did not disappear; it was not razed to the ground and forgotten as the chronicles claim and instead, it was transported.


    In a final, desperate act, King Arthur sacrificed his life to move the entire kingdom of Camelot to the otherworld, and with it, he brought Morgana.


    Yet, though the war may have ceased within the borders of Britain, it is said to have raged on within the confines of Avalon.


    However, due to Morgana''s constant attempts to stir conflict and unrest, Merlin cursed her to remain bound within the castle walls, encased in unbreakable spells.


    Should she ever attempt to leave, it is said that death would be her only companion.


    Her only means of influencing the outside world while trapped in her confinement was through her astral form or possession.


    In these ethereal states, Morgana could reach beyond the castle walls, manipulating minds and weaving subtle webs of influence, though always at the cost of her own energy and tethered existence.


    "They''re ensnared, correct?" Morgana''s head snapped toward her butler, her eyes flashing with a fierce green as determination seeped into them.


    "Not yet sire, but soon they will." Jenkins dutifully said, bowing in a full ninety degrees to satiate his master''s ego.


    "Good, good." Morgana assessed the situation as salvageable, pacing for a moment before heading in a distinct direction.


    "Notify me when they''ve been ensnared. We must make preparations."


    Within her confines, Morgana''s preference for possession over astral projection was a matter of necessity and desire.


    As a mere astral form, she could only observe the world, unable to engage, interact, or shape it.


    It was a passive existence, and one Morgana found intolerable.


    To truly bend the world to her will, she needed to inhabit it, to touch it, to twist the minds and bodies of those who would serve her but possession, the preferred form, however, was far from simple.


    Being trapped in another dimension, Morgana could not simply force herself into a body.


    The barriers between her and the physical world were too strong, too carefully woven and instead, she had to work in a far more subtle, insidious way.


    She lured her targets with promises of power, whispers of forbidden strength that tempted them into reaching out to her.


    These promises, sweet and alluring, planted seeds, tiny fragments of her essence, within them.


    As the targets gave in to her influence, the seeds took root and each time they used the power she offered, the seeds burrowed deeper into their bodies, like roots weaving through flesh and bone, slowly claiming them.


    The more they relied on her power, the more the seeds grew, intertwining with their very essence.


    Over time, these roots would reach a point where they could no longer be ignored, where Morgana could finally take full control of the vessel she had cultivated.


    It all served a purpose, a grand design that had driven Morgana''s every move, and the reason she had been relentlessly chasing the Black Knight for so long.


    The only thing capable of breaking an unbreakable spell was a weapon that could cut through anything.


    Coincidentally, the only weapon that could shatter her spell and release her into the world was the Ebony, wielded by the Black Knight.


    For centuries, Morgana had been trying to free herself, each attempt thwarted, each failure pushing her further into frustration.


    But with every defeat, her resolve only grew stronger.


    However, a new challenge arose when she finally ensnared the first witch from the depths of Agatha''s coven.


    When Morgana took possession of these women, her immediate goal was clear: she would seduce Ricky and assert her control through direct, intimate connections.


    "Excuse me?" Morgana asked innocently, her voice sweet as she emerged in the vessel of a cute witch, walking toward Ricky while he swung his sword.


    "F*ck off." Ricky, deep in the zone, didn''t even register her presence, so focused on his training that he barely noticed her and simply tried to swat away any flies with his vulgar words.


    Morgana, however, wasn''t bothered at all and instead, she smiled to herself, her eyes gleaming as they locked onto the Ebony blade in his hands.


    "Could you help me?" Morgana asked, biting her lip as she lowered her chest, subtly accentuating the witch''s cleavage, her gaze fixed on him with a determined intensity.


    Ricky, however, scoffed in annoyance and turned away, irritated by the interruption to his training session.


    But as soon as he saw the woman before him, a woman who fit his usual taste, his attitude shifted instantly, and a sleazy smile crept onto his face.


    Leaning on the blade, Alexander slicked his hair back and flung his tiny arms up in frustration, shouting furiously at him though it only registered to Morgana as squeaks.


    Yet, Ricky remained unfazed, tuning out the angry outburst as he focused on his own thoughts.


    "How you doing?" Ricky chuckled, his gaze fixated on her cleavage but as he soaked in the moment, his ear twitched, and he turned his attention to the side.


    "Can''t you just-"


    "I get it but-"


    "Dammit Alexander, fine." Ricky, being berated by his stubborn mentor Alexander The Great, relented to the demand to refine his skills before turning back to Morgana.


    "Hey, baby, how about you let me finish up my training, and then you''ll have me all to yourself?" Ricky stretched his sleazy smile wider, unabashed in his gaze and Morgana, however, thought to herself that this was almost too easy.


    "Don''t keep me waiting too long~" Morgana purred, licking her lips as if already savoring the sweetness of freedom, watching him nod his head and then turn back to his training with a renewed determination.


    However, Morgana had been too reckless, accumulating enough power and assuming it would be sufficient.


    What she failed to account for, though, was Agatha.


    Who at the time, was still grappling with her own feelings for Ricky and had unknowingly been watching him through an orb to try and understand what it was that arched within her heart.


    However, this subtle stalking made her bear witness to this entire scene and before Morgana could act, a portal appeared behind her with a hand outstretched through it.


    "Alright, baby, where did we leave off, huh?" Ricky, finally finished with his training, turned back to the scene and scanned the surroundings.


    "Hey where did you go?"


    If you recall from earlier Chapters, it was mentioned that three witches mysteriously disappeared after attempting to hit on Ricky.


    Well, every one of those witches had been possessed by Morgana.


    "Wait what are you-" Morgana, through her possessed form, suddenly realized the situation as she turned around, only to meet Agatha''s hollowed-out eyes, coldly staring back at her.


    SNAP


    Within a split second, Agatha snapped the vessel''s neck with the flick of her finger, completely unaware that it was even Morgana possessing this witch.


    Then, as if the spell cast on Agatha had finally broken, she suddenly realized the weight of what she had done as she looked down at the witch, the full extent of her actions dawning on her.


    It had been a spur-of-the-moment decision, and what''s worse, she had almost expected something like this to happen.


    Agatha knew Ricky''s sleazy ways; how he slept around, how he shamelessly flaunted his debauchery, and she''d convinced herself that she didn''t care.


    After all, having him bound to her through their children''s matron should have been enough.


    But despite his other lovers, despite his lecherous behavior, something about another woman from her own coven being with Ricky deeply unsettled her, it irked her in a way she couldn''t quite shake.


    If it had to be described, it was a sense of control.


    Agatha couldn''t control most things in their tangled relationship, but she could at least control one thing: no woman in her coven would dare step out of line.


    Though none of the witches would ever dare cross her, it was an unknowing vow.


    "Yes, that''s the reason why I''m acting like this," Agatha muttered to herself, her voice low and almost soothing as she tried to convince her own mind.


    "This coven is mine, and I don''t want my things being tainted by Ricky." Agatha continued to dig, her movements mechanical, as the limp, lifeless body of the witch lay next to her, the weight of her words not quite matching the dark, obsessive intent simmering beneath.


    Agatha didn''t even need to dig the ground, she could have used magic, but the physical act of it helped her push her mind away from the gnawing truth that she was lying to herself.


    It gave her a temporary sense of control, a way to distract from the deep turmoil within.


    Yet, it was through this very, unknowingly self-imposed vow that a series of events unfolded, with Agatha inadvertently thwarting Morgana''s plans time and time again.


    What started as a single buried witch turned into two, and then three.


    Agatha dug a pit, her hands coated in dirt, and sealed Morgana''s possessions within it, ensuring they were buried deep and out of reach.


    With each witch she buried, she unknowingly dug her way towards the realization that she wasn''t doing this out of control, but in reality, towards her own jealousy that would later be converted into love.


    "WHAT IS WRONG WITH THAT-........THAT B*TCH!" Morgana roared, her fingers gripping her hair in frustration.


    Agatha hadn''t just trapped her possessions, she''d tortured them before dismantling them and burying them, each act a deliberate insult to Morgana''s carefully laid plans.


    "No, calm down, Morgana, you are the rightful queen, you must keep your composure and go slow."


    So she did. Morgana followed through with the steps, ensnaring another witch, but instead of interacting directly with Ricky, she devised another plan.


    She intended to gather enough power within this vessel to forge a connection, one that would solidify her control.


    However, things didn''t go as she expected as it sent her spiraling into nightmares, into that nightmare.


    Even in the future, Morgana would still feel dread when recalling that memory, that void, and the emptiness that consumed her mind which was the reason she was forced to her last option.


    "A direct confrontation," Morgana shrugged, now reduced to her last resort in real time, looking at the embarrassed Agatha.


    However, the witches and warlocks had started to admire Agatha, mistakenly believing she was able to deduce Morgana''s possessions and sever them with ease.


    "If I can''t enter his mind, then a conversation will suffice. And if you refuse, well, I''ll detonate this vessel," Morgana revealed, her voice laced with cold determination, forcing their hand and making everyone in the vicinity flinch with unease.


    Agatha gritted her teeth, the magic around her crackling with intensity, reaching its zenith.


    Yet, as her own words echoed in her mind, the energy faltered, wavering like a flame caught in the wind.


    The path Morgana had chosen to reach Ricky was nothing short of dramatic, but there were reasons for her calculated approach, two, in particular.


    First, Ricky had grown too formidable for conventional interference as although he wasn''t invincible, he had ascended to a level where Morgana could no longer impose her influence upon him as she once might have without risking her own life.


    Second, Morgana had been carefully observing Ricky, scrutinizing his demeanor and the way he carried himself.


    But what she found from these observations was startling compared to her inherent perceptions of the Black Knight.


    At first, she dismissed it as coincidence, but over time, she could no longer deny the truth: the blood of Percival does indeed run through Ricky''s veins as the resemblance was unmistakable, yet they were polar opposites in every other way.


    The reason long-lived individuals, who had endured centuries, found themselves so profoundly unsettled upon encountering the current Black Knight was rooted in the legacy of the title itself.


    Over generations, they had become accustomed, almost desensitized, to the unwavering righteousness and justice that every Black Knight seemed to embody.


    It was as though these traits were woven into the very fabric of their recognition of this mantle, an unbreakable thread of virtue passed down through time.


    That''s why Ricky was such a revelation, a shock to their core whenever a long lived being who had encountered the Black Knight, encountered him.


    He defied everything the Black Knight was supposed to represent.


    His presence challenged the sanctity of that legacy, upending centuries of expectation.


    For those who had come to view the Black Knight as an eternal symbol of integrity, Ricky was an anomaly.


    But it was from that anomaly that Morgana actually realized this would be the best way to reach him, this confrontation, this direct interaction, and it was exactly where she had come to now.


    "He''s busy-"


    "Tsk, tsk, tsk," Morgana clicked her tongue, a laugh escaping her as she reveled in the foolishness before her.


    "Do you think I''ve merely taken hold of this body? No, I know for a fact that the Black Knight has had some downtime recently, with nothing pressing on his plate. And that is exactly why I''m here." Morgana revealed, having occupied this vessel far longer than anyone here had once thought.


    "From what I''ve heard, he doesn''t seem busy at all-"


    BAM


    Ricky stumbled into the room, skidding across the floor and tumbling forward before catching himself.


    Having fallen off Chastefold since he wasn''t all that inept at riding the spear at such speeds without falling off once or twice.


    "F*cking hell~" Ricky mumbled, rubbing his ass as the Ebony blade scoffed at his side.


    "That''s what you get for using such an inferior weapon-ON GUARD!" The Ebony blade remarked, almost pouting, before its senses picked up a faint energy signature.


    Ricky''s eyes immediately locked onto the hilt of the sword, his grip tightening as the Ebony blade''s tone reminded him of Dracula.


    A strange, buried instinct surged within him, his eyes darkening, pupils overtaken by shadows.


    Before registering the scene around him as he froze in place as his gaze landed on the scene before him, the air around him grew thick with tension.


    "Oh sh*t, is this an intervention-" Ricky, having been in this situation way too many times than he should have, first asked since absolutely hated these.


    "Hello, Black Knight," Morgana hummed, her voice dripping with sweetness, the tone so smooth it made the Ebony blade hum in response, vibrating with an intensity that matched the underlying threat.


    "Uh, hello, random witch," Ricky said, his tone casual, unaware that the seemingly insignificant magic she emanated was, in fact, Morgana''s presence, something he''d never encountered before.


    The only form Ricky recognized was the one from his dreams, the image that had haunted him during a particular period of his life.


    But the only reason it lingered in his mind was the frustrating mystery of not being able to look under her skirt.


    ''No, Ricky, that is Morgana. I can recognize that trace anywhere,'' the Ebony Blade spoke sternly within his mind, but Ricky only scrunched his brows, his confusion deepening.


    "Then why isn''t she smoking hot like the sexy chick in my dreams? Is this some sort of weird puppet magic-"


    "Possession, you see, I am trapped in Otherworld and the only means of entering the physical world is through possessing a body." Morgana gestured, chuckling sweetly at the indirect complement as Ricky tapped the blade on his shoulder.


    "Bummer." Ricky mused, casting his eyes off to the side only to see Agatha glaring at him as he immediately started whistling, averting his gaze to the other side of the room.


    "So, let me guess, you''re here to drag me into some stupid conflict you''ve been fighting forever, right?" Ricky laughed, casually pulling a chair over and sitting in front of her, as Morgana''s eyebrow twitched in irritation.


    "If you are so careless as to describe it that way, then yes, I am," Morgana replied, leaning back with an air of regal authority, her form radiating power that would normally intimidate anyone else.


    But to Ricky, who saw himself as a sovereign in his own right, a queen''s authority held little sway.


    "But before we begin this exchange of words, I would kindly inform you that this vessel is more of a bomb than a mere possession," Morgana said, the corner of her lips curling into a sly smile and Ricky, unfazed, crossed his arms, eyes narrowing as he studied her.


    "And I know it''s rash to just waltz in here unannounced, but it''s been so troublesome trying to get ahold of you," Morgana said with a lighthearted tone, her words dripping with arrogance. Ricky, momentarily taken aback, raised an eyebrow.


    It had been a while since anyone had underestimated him so blatantly, but he didn''t complain.


    "Well, I''m a busy man," Ricky sighed, his voice casual as he slowly began to wrap Morgana in layers upon layers of psychic barriers.


    Each layer stacked on top of the last, creating a dense cocoon around her.


    He didn''t rush, giving her the floor to speak, but his focus was already on stalling, buying time to assess and counter whatever her next move since the coven was of vital importance to the future of the Luciano family.


    "But may I first congratulate you, for not only slaying with Dracula but receiving the Ebony Blade blessing." Morgana politely informed him, showing her appreciation as Ricky side-eyed the blade.


    This had been true since although anyone from his bloodline could wield the blade, only a few had actually received its blessing.


    In fact, Ricky hadn''t really noticed it since this part of his system never changed, but he had received two new titles and two revised ones.


    Black Knight: The Ebony Blade, which has only ever recognized one Black Knight before you, now acknowledges you and all that you represent through your binding agreement.


    -Effect: Without any skills or powers, a slither of consciousness will always remain within the Berserk state.


    Mutant Jesus: Through his selfish actions, the user has unknowingly disrupted the course of fate and civil rights for Mutants, setting a dangerous precedent for a marginalized group that was not meant to gain such rights until decades later.


    -Effect: All Mutants will now always have a minimum of 20 favorability and will never reach lower


    Deadbeat¡úResponsible Scumbag: You might be trash, fathering bastards throughout different women with a scummy proficiency, but at least you look after your own.


    Prodigal Son¡úProdigal Kingpin: Your rise to power has solidified your reputation, drawing immense attention and even greater expectations.


    ¨CEffect: Underlings and rival mobsters will expect you to maintain their standards of success and dominance. Failure to meet these expectations will bring harsh judgment, undermining your authority and placing you at the mercy of their criticism.


    The other three titles came through Ricky''s usual escapades, but the Black Knight title was different, it wasn''t something he just received, it was something he earned.


    From the beginning, despite their differences, Ricky had chosen to honor the agreement to sever the bond.


    Behind the scenes, he had quietly asked the coven to look into a way to break the connection, and Agatha had actively been searching for a solution.


    For the Ebony Blade, a weapon that had been tricked and used for centuries, trust wasn''t easily given.


    The Blade had seen betrayal after betrayal as it had been passed through many hands, often taken by force, or thrust into the hands of those it knew wouldn''t value its true power.


    With every act of misguided promises and directed hatred towards it, the Blade''s capacity for trust shrank, and the bond between weapon and wielder became more fractured as the generations continued.


    It had long since stopped seeing itself as an instrument of war and more as a pawn, used by Percival''s bloodline, all of them finding their own ways to ridicule its power that derived from their own inherent bloodlust.


    It was this deep-seated wariness that delayed Ricky''s recognition.


    But over time, as he not only made the promise but also demonstrated his unwavering commitment to it, the Ebony Blade began to lower its defenses.


    It was then that the walls around it started to crack, and the hostility that had once defined their relationship began to fade, allowing Ricky to finally earn its acknowledgement.


    "Well, we came to terms-"


    "What terms?" Morgana asked, her curiosity barely concealed. She caught herself, quickly reining in her eagerness, but the glimmer of interest in her eyes betrayed her.


    "Nunya."


    "Nunya?"


    "Nun-ya business," Ricky chuckled, earning a few snickers from the crowd of onlookers as Morgana''s expression darkened, her frown deepening as she glared at him, clearly unamused by the joke.


    Morgana held tightly to her queenly poise, her posture regal, her demeanor imperious, and held back the clear annoyance for being scorned by those she considered lowly.


    She sought to project an air of superiority, as though she were untouched by the petty matters before her.


    And yet, her eyes betrayed her, a flicker of uncontainable malice sparked at the mere thought of being spoken down to and gazed around with clear hatred.


    ''Still the same as ever,'' The Ebony Blade murmured, its voice heavy with disdain as it observed the sorceress, the woman who had been thwarted time and time again by its wielders across the centuries.


    Too proud, too stubborn to evolve.


    It was ironic for the blade to have such thoughts, but even this mere sword had developed its own character throughout the centuries.


    But Morgana refused to confront the possibility that the fault might lie within her, that her failures were not the result of external forces but the outcome of her own unwillingness to adapt or acknowledge her flaws.


    Instead, she clung to her pride of the ruler she never truly was, unable, or unwilling, to change.


    ''She hasn''t changed-''


    "Let us get down to the matter-"


    Suddenly, both the Blade and Morgana began speaking to him at once, their voices clashing in his mind.


    Morgana''s words came sharp and direct, while the Blade''s tone was more measured, yet filled with a centuries-old weight.


    Ricky was suddenly swept up in a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts, the torrent of words disorienting him as they all demanded his attention at once.


    "Stop, stop, stop, stop." Ricky waved his hands immediately, halting the outflow of words in there tracks.


    "I have no idea what either of you are saying, but when a magical talking sword is rambling in my head and a goth chick possessing a witch''s body is yapping right in front of me, it''s pretty much impossible to keep up." Ricky held up his hand, laughing at the sheer absurdity of his own words as both of them fell silent, momentarily pursuing their respective lips.


    ''Honestly, I should feel offended at your word choice, but considering your extensive and crude vocabulary, I''m actually honored you referred to me that way.'' The Ebony Blade was more surprised at itself for admitting this, but after enduring countless creative insults from Ricky, it found a strange sense of pride in rising above the usual descriptions.


    "Goth? What is a Goth?" Morgana inquired, her tone sharp with curiosity, the term foreign to her.


    Ricky, caught off guard, pressed his lips together, searching his mind for a creative explanation that might satisfy her antiquated understanding.


    "Well," Ricky began, drawing out the word as he tapped into his extensive and colorful vocabulary,


    "It''s basically like a chick who''s got some serious daddy issues. They can''t quite get over that hurdle, so they cover it up with dark and scary stuff. But deep down? They''re as soft as butter and just need someone to churn it-"


    "RICKY!" Agatha gave a sharp reprimand, blushing and cutting him off before he could finish.


    Morgana froze, caught off guard by the assumption that struck right on the nose as she opened her mouth as if to respond but promptly shut it, momentarily at a loss for words.


    "And, you know, if we really start getting into it, I''ve been thinking about sht like this a lot lately, mainly because, well, I''m a piece of sht who has daughters." Ricky gestured animatedly, fully diving into the conversation while everyone else remained too stunned to interrupt.


    "So, I''m thinking the best way to handle this is, I don''t know, guiding them? Like, if I support them but stay firm enough to steer them away from sh*tstains like me, then maybe I can avoid those kinds of problems-"


    BOOM


    "HOW DARE YOU WASTE MY TIME WITH YOUR FALSE PRESUMPTIONS!" Morgana seethed, her fury radiating as she felt utterly belittled while Ricky, however, simply held up his hands, unfazed.


    "Woah, I didn''t mean to strike any nerves-"


    "YOU?! Strike my nerves?" Morgana scoffed, quickly reeling herself in as she realized she had lost control of her temper and laughing at the mere thought, she straightened her posture.


    "No nerves were struck, I am merely informing you of your failure to properly describe me." Morgana stood up, pointing at Ricky as he frowned and side-eyed the blade.


    ''Is she-''


    ''Yes.'' the Ebony Blade interrupted, anticipating Ricky''s question and answering before he could even ask, prompting him to nod.


    Taking a deep breath, Morgana steadied herself, her gaze locking onto Ricky with a newfound resolve.


    "Young Black Knight, I have come here today to make a proposal." Morgana raised her gaze, her regal presence filling the room as she stepped into the realm of negotiations.


    As she spoke, Shadow Broker, almost instinctively, unbuckled his briefcase and retrieved a sheet of paper, readying himself for what was to come.


    "Well, if you came here cause of that knight crap, about me serving you or whatever, then you can forget it." Ricky leaned back with a sigh, preferring to have these negotiations over a candlelit dinner with desert being Morgana herself.


    "But I wouldn''t be against you trying to change my mind over, well, I don''t know, maybe a candle-lit dinner


    "Ricky." Agatha''s eyes were cold at this point, prompting out a laugh from Ricky as if it was a joke.


    "No, young Black Knight, I am here to propose a partnership." Morgana rested a hand on her hip, smirking as Ricky tilted his head, curious yet cautious though his eyes were still staring at her cleavage.


    "Like the sexual kind-"


    Slap


    Slap


    "What is wrong with you!" Agatha started playfully hitting Ricky, who laughed, dodging each attempt at his face with ease as the moments stretched on.


    "Oh come on, it was a joke-"


    "Urgh!" Agatha grunted, marching into the crowd as Ricky sighed, waving his hand dismissively while glancing back at Morgana.


    "She''ll be alright, just got a lot on her plate," Ricky said, easily seeing through Agatha''s angry facade.


    Knowing that this situation, combined with the coven''s integration into Staten Island and the responsibility of raising two kids, was a lot for Agatha to handle.


    The constant pressure to maintain order, control, and respect, while simultaneously raising her children, who she wanted to shield from this life, was slowly wearing her down.


    Every decision, every misstep, felt like it could tip everything over, and there were days when it felt like she was losing herself in the process.


    Ricky could see it in the way her shoulders slumped, the tense jaw, the fire in her eyes slowly dimming.


    Ricky was doing his best to lighten the load, but he knew there was only so much he could take off her shoulders.


    "Anyways, I already know what you''re about to do, you''re going to hit me with your pitch on why I should partner with you, right? So go ahead, hit me with it," Ricky said, already anticipating Morgana''s next move after seeing her show up.


    It was clear that Morgana had her own agenda, wanting to use Ricky for her own gain, but Ricky knew that if he was going to entertain this, he''d have to find a way to turn the tables and use her to his advantage as well.


    "Have you ever heard of the fairy tale about the sword and the stone?" Morgana asked, her eyes narrowing as Ricky shrugged, clearly uninterested.


    "Yeah, of course." Ricky said dismissively, the tale being so ingrained in western culture that most knew of the myth even if they didn''t have any interest in it.


    "Well, it is true, which I''m sure doesn''t surprise you, considering I stand before you," Morgana said, gesturing to herself with a slight smirk playing on her lips.


    "Yeah, I kinda put two and two together." Ricky bobbed his head, crossing his arms and letting out another small sigh.


    "There is a different side of the story-"


    "Of course there is, why wouldn''t there be?" Ricky laughed, rubbing his mouth as an ironic smile spread across his face as his tone was laced with sarcasm.


    "Everything here has to have f*cking layers, like some sort of onion. It can''t ever be like a carrot, where you just cut to the point." Ricky lamented, his annoyance clear as he ran a hand through his hair, frustrated by how everything seemed to need extra depth when all he wanted was the straight-up truth.


    ''A carrot?'' The Ebony Blade asked, unable to really understand as Ricky frowned, turning to the blade.


    "What? It was a spur of the moment thing but it kind of makes sense, right?" Ricky pondered out loud, turning towards the surrounding witches and warlocks who shrugged their shoulders at it since it honestly didn''t matter.


    "May I continue?" Morgana asked, her tone measured as she waited for Ricky to stop speaking. Ricky waved his hand dismissively, signaling for her to go on.


    "Yeah, knock yourself out."


    Ahem


    "To first understand-"


    Morgana Narration:


    I was not born in the age of Camelot, in the age of heroes, but rather, at the end of a pivotal moment of this world.


    I was born from the island known as Avalon, one of the islands birthed by the sinking of the mythical land of Atlantis.


    I was not born in the age of Camelot, in the age of heroes, but rather, at the end of a pivotal moment of this world. I was born from the island known as Avalon, one of the islands birthed by the sinking of the mythical land of Atlantis.


    As the custom went, Morgan was taken to be trained at the House of Virgins to serve as Avalon''s sea-princess, within the great sun temple of the Crystal City on the volcanic island of Ruta. The women were given in marriage to men of the sacred clan for magical purposes, forbidding Morgan the love she sought.


    A young priest, Myraddin, was warned of the upcoming and long foretold catastrophe that would occur.


    The ancient priest of the sun entrusted Myraddin with his secret scrolls, and with his daughter Igraine.


    Myraddin and Igraine rushed to the House of Virgins where they took Morgan, and flew on a merchant ship from Tingail, as the remaining islands of Atlantis were drowned by great tidal waves caused by the eruption of the volcano.


    They ended up on the Isle of Britain, where Myraddin changed his name to Merlin and established his druid worship in Stonehenge. He arranged for Igraine to marry Gorlois, Duke of Tintagel, who adopted Morgan. Gorlois was killed by Uther Pendragon, who took Igraine as his queen.


    She gave birth to a son, Arthur Pendragon.


    But at that moment in time, I did not hate my brother nor despise him.


    But once I reached that age, I knew that I couldn''t do it.


    Merlin, for all his wisdom and power, was blind to what was right in front of him and he would never love me, not truly, because he was obsessed with Arthur and the legacy he was meant to create.


    Arthur was the one who held his heart, the one Merlin saw as his greatest achievement, his purpose.


    He always babbled on about how he was this child of prophecy, meant to become the greatest king that humanity had never known.


    However, this obsession with the prophecy grew darker with each and every year that passed, until it started spiraling out of control.


    Merlin''s obsession with Arthur''s legacy, with the destiny he believed the boy was meant to fulfill, consumed him in ways that became not just unhealthy but dangerous.


    It wasn''t just about guiding Arthur or protecting him anymore, it became about making sure everything, every detail, every moment, aligned with the prophecy, as if the fate of the world rested solely on Arthur''s shoulders.


    But the change didn''t occur with just Merlin.


    Arthur, too, was swept away by this relentless tide forced upon him not only by Merlin, not only by his round table, but by his own people.


    As the years passed, his righteousness grew more rigid, the burden on his shoulders increased, his convictions hardened by the weight of his crown and the expectations placed upon him.


    The idea of prophecy became a gilded cage around them both, and neither of them saw how suffocating it was becoming for Camelot, especially for me.


    As Arthur rose to power and took the throne of Camelot, the entire kingdom was pulled into this frenzy of belief that the once and future king was the key to Britain''s salvation.


    And that''s where everything started to unravel.


    When Arthur decided to convert Britain to Christianity, I felt that pull, that force I couldn''t ignore.


    This wasn''t just about religion, it wasn''t about beliefs, it was about erasing the very essence of the land, the ancient ways that had existed long before Christianity ever touched these shores.


    Merlin had become so blinded by Aruther sense of destiny, his obsession with fulfilling the prophecy, that he couldn''t see the damage he was causing to the very land that had nurtured us in place of our fallen home.


    Britain was a place of magic, of ancient beliefs, and turning away from that to embrace a foreign religion felt like a betrayal.


    I couldn''t stand by and watch as my homeland, my people, forced to abandon their old ways, abandoned the rich tapestry of beliefs that had existed for centuries.


    I had to oppose it.


    And so, when I protested the conversion to Christianity, I found myself standing against my half-brother, the man I had once cared for, the man who had become the king of Camelot.


    But I was ridiculed, shunned, and altogether pushed to the extremes by Merlin, who saw me as another hurdle in his way.


    However I was not noble in my pursuits, I shall admit it, but a ruler cannot be completely and wholeheartedly just.


    These people, these unreliable people who only looked up to my half-brother to fix every single one of their problems, were unknowingly killing him.


    They clung to him, to his every word, like he was some kind of savior, a perfect figure whose mere existence would heal all the wounds of a broken kingdom.


    They placed their hopes and dreams in his hands, demanded solutions from him, but they failed to see the weight they were pressing down on his shoulders.


    Arthur, the shining beacon of Camelot, was not invincible as he was just a man, burdened with the expectations of a kingdom that demanded too much from him.


    The more they adored him, the more they relied on him, the more they drained the life out of him.


    But the worst part, the truly heartbreaking part, was that Arthur, my half-brother, the once hopeful king, wanted to live up to those impossible expectations.


    He wanted to carry the weight of every single soul in Camelot, to bear their hopes, their dreams, their endless demands.


    He sacrificed himself time and time again, pouring himself into the very thing that was slowly consuming him.


    He tried so hard to be the man everyone needed him to be, the symbol of perfection, of strength, of unwavering honor.


    He became a martyr in his own right, but no one, not even Arthur, could withstand that much pressure.


    Camelot would only fall into ruin, and I saw it coming.


    The signs were too clear, the cracks too wide but it wasn''t the kingdom''s fault, nor was it the people''s.


    It was the burden of an ideal, an unattainable fantasy that was choking the life out of the one person who was supposed to uphold it all, it was this foul prophecy.


    So, I did what I knew was right. I joined forces with Mordred, Arthur''s nephew, and his bastard son, to overthrow Camelot.


    I aligned myself with those who understood the futility of the dream Arthur was trying to chase.


    I will also admit that I coveted the power of the queen, my rightful position, since I had all the bearings to become a good ruler, not perfect, but good.


    I had the strength, the will, and the knowledge to lead, to command, and to build something lasting.


    Yet they saw me as vile for it.


    They saw me as a villain for wanting what was mine by birthright, simply because they couldn''t understand the difference between ambition and tyranny.


    But what ruler is supposed to be kind?


    What ruler is supposed to be beloved?


    A queen must be firm, unyielding, and above all, ruthlessly strategic.


    Kindness is a luxury for those who don''t hold the weight of a kingdom on their shoulders.


    If I had been kind, I would have let Arthur continue on in his miserable state.


    I would have allowed him to bleed himself dry for their sake, for Camelot''s sake, all the while condemning himself to a life of pain and sacrifice.


    But alas, I failed, because of your ancestor, Sir Percival and with that failure, I had to watch my own brother face armies of beings I couldn''t even fathom at the time.


    It destroyed him, literally.


    But what''s most ironic, what truly stings, is that when he transported Camelot, he transported my entire army along with me in it, just as I was once again trying to take over the kingdom.


    But I didn''t waver, I counted my pursuits, enduring each failure, and I was thwarted time and again in my efforts to bring ruin to Camelot.


    And so, I was imprisoned, trapped within the walls of Castle Le Fey with nothing to comfort except my own defeat, my own cage.


    End of narration:


    Even after Morgana finished speaking, Ricky''s skill, Whisper of Falsehoods, picked up on a buried sentence hidden within her words.


    It didn''t work all the time, but every now and then, the skill would unearth a line buried beneath layers of truth, carrying with it an emotion that lingered, too.


    ''An otherworldly power lies with its ruler, at the nexus of Otherworld, at the nexus of Camelot.''


    "Honestly, I should''ve expected it," Ricky thought, knowing that if he were in Morgana''s shoes, he''d probably do the same thing.


    But the difference was, he was on the other side of the table now, the ''good side'' as Lucky would call it.


    The side where you had no reason to take a step forward unless it benefited you and that''s why the other side of the table would always need convincing.


    "So, what''s the deal?" Ricky got straight down to the point, watching with an amused expression as Morgana wiped away her fake tears.


    "If we succeed, not only will you receive a kings reward for my ascension to my rightful throne, but also the ebony artifacts-"


    "Errrrrrr, wrong." Ricky made a buzzer sound, mimicking the sound of a game show, catching Morgana off guard after seeing through her lie.


    "Well, it is true that I do not possess all of them, but I do possess the Ebony Chalice." Morgana raised her gaze, her eyes locking with Ricky''s, who clearly had no idea about the other ebony artifacts. She couldn''t help but smirk at his blank expression.


    "Wait, there''s more than just the Ebony Blade?" Ricky asked, glancing at the blade, which remained silent as he could almost feel its sigh echoing in his mind.


    ''They are my siblings, but they are mere trash, except for the occasional time my sibling Shield proves useful,'' The Ebony Blade muttered with a slight distaste as Ricky frowned, feeling like he should''ve been told that earlier.


    The Starstone, an ancient and otherworldly material, was primarily used to forge the legendary Ebony Blade, a weapon of unparalleled power and dark allure.


    Once the blade was completed, the remnants of the Starstone were repurposed into other significant artifacts, each imbued with a fragment of its mystical essence.


    Over the centuries, some of these items were melted down, reshaped, and reforged, their by-products giving rise to what would come to be known as the Ebony Artifacts.


    Among these were the Ebony Shield, the Ebony Chalice, and the Ebony Crown.


    ''What does the chalice one do-''


    ''It lets you see all the possibilities of one task, but it usually cripples the drinker''s mind, since the toxic nature of it overloads the brain,'' the Ebony Blade informed Ricky, speaking as if it were a trivial matter.


    ''But the problem was that-.......how you say, my sibling didn''t come out quite, right?'' The Ebony Blade spoke, unable to find the exact words to associate with his sibling.


    ''Is it like retarded or something?'' Ricky chuckled in real time, looking at the blade who let out a deeper sigh.


    ''To gaze into the spectrum, one had to be immersed in it. And since magic always demands a price, Merlin never understood its true nature until it had already taken shape.'' The Ebony Blade explained, knowing that second to him, the chalice was actually the second most powerful of the four, it''s just that the ego from the spectrum made it the worst.


    ''That''s hilarious.'' Ricky thought, wondering what the others were like, but his expression was misinterpreted by Morgana.


    "So, do we have a deal?" Morgana extended her hand, her expression calm as if she already knew the outcome, while Ricky slowly stood, eyeing her hand with a measured glance.


    Sigh


    "Listen, you''re hot and everything, but I already got enough baby mama drama on my plate, and I don''t need any more right now," Ricky said, shrugging and waving his hand dismissively before he stopped himself.


    "Alright, fine, I do want more, but I''m just busy at the moment. Maybe later." Ricky rejected Morgana''s offer without really rejecting it, knowing that he shouldn''t have more but literally couldn''t help himself.


    "W-Wha-"


    "Listen, with the Luciano family, my fledgling business, and my own family, I got a lot of stuff I''m dealing with." Ricky cut her off, his plate already full as he tried to figure out how to properly digest everything.


    This wasn''t a light matter but a serious issue Ricky was dealing with.


    Ricky already had so much on his plate that it was beginning to affect his training, something Alexander was quick to criticize him for.


    Training, which usually offered limitless growth, had hit a wall and Ricky felt trapped, unable to push past the limits that now seemed to define him.


    Understanding martial prowess came naturally to most, and for Ricky, it had been relatively easy, at least until the time came for him to create his own unique form.


    Following an established path was one thing, but forging his own?


    That was a challenge he hadn''t anticipated, something that was causing him to constantly tumble down towards the bottom at each and every climb.


    This was the next step in their training before Ricky could truly flourish, but even Alexander found himself stumped by his disciple''s wide array of skills that lacked a distinct identity.


    Ricky was proficient, even skilled, at following established methods, but when it came to forging his own path, he struggled.


    The concept of creating his own trail left him feeling uncertain and unmoored, unable to fully grasp what his form should embody.


    With his growing arsenal of abilities and weapons, Ricky found himself overwhelmed, a powerhouse without direction.


    He was undeniably strong, but his strength lacked focus or refinement.


    It was raw, untamed, like a massive rock used to smash obstacles rather than a blade honed to precise and devastating efficiency.


    At this crossroad, Ricky realized that power alone wouldn''t carry him forward; he needed clarity, purpose, and, most of all, a way to transform his potential into something truly formidable.


    But he didn''t know what it was he wanted for himself, which was the hardest part of making something for yourself.


    "But the chalice-"


    "Listen, I was just told by his sibling that he''s retarded, and I especially don''t need any of that on my plate." Ricky laughed, waving off the powerful magical artifact since he could literally put three out of mid-air, right this very second and this exact nonchalance caused Morgana to flinch.


    Her gaze trailed down to the blade, now sheathed, aware of its subtle affliction as she knew its power, but she also understood that it would cripple Ricky.


    In her mind, she never imagined the blade would sway him against something that would surely kill him, but what she hadn''t realized was that the Ebony Blade didn''t harbor the same animosity for Ricky as it had for its other wielders.


    That realization struck her in that moment, taking her by surprise and derailed any sort of process she thought she might have had.


    "Y-You get along with the Ebony Blade?" Morgana was almost at a loss for words, looking upon Ricky as if he was some rare mythical creature himself.


    "Uh, I guess." Ricky spoke, realizing he''d forgotten that they weren''t always at each other''s throats anymore.


    When The Ebony Blade wasn''t trying to drive him into an unrelenting murder spree, it was actually pretty chill.


    The Ebony Blade wasn''t unruly or attention-seeking and rather, preferred the peaceful life of seniority.


    As long as Ricky placed it in a garden or near a radio, it literally never complained.


    ''I do not mean to intrude but can you hurry up, my radio show is about to start.'' The Ebony Blade spoke to Ricky, knowing that it was almost time for Amos ''n'' Andy.


    Amos ''n'' Andy was a groundbreaking radio show that aired from 1928 to 1960.


    Created by Freeman Gosden and Charles Correll and had the series follow the comedic adventures of two African American characters, Amos Jones and Andrew H. Brown, voiced by the white creators.


    The show was immensely popular, particularly in the 1930s and 1940s, and had a cultural impact, though it also became controversial for its reliance on racial stereotypes but that was in the later years.


    However, that was just the warm-up, as the Ebony Blade had a peculiar fondness for listening to Amos ''n'' Andy before tuning into the hit radio show Flash Gordon that followed.


    ''I can understand missing Amos ''n'' Andy but I shall not, I cannot not, EVER, miss an episode of Flash Gordon, you must make haste!'' The Ebony blade almost roared in Ricky''s mind since the next episode, titled ''Epic 13'', would finally be broadcasted after constant writing delays.


    "Anyways, see ya." Ricky shrugged her off, walking away as Morgana went to chase after him.


    DINK


    "What?" Morgana asked, not fully aware of Ricky''s mutant ability but more focused on his sword. She had forgotten about the barrier he wielded, one that didn''t rely on magical energy which made it impossible for her to detect without being cognisant of it.


    Even then, the only reason she couldn''t sense it was because she was too caught up in her own hubris. If she had truly made an effort, she would''ve realized it.


    Ricky''s stalling had allowed him to become more comfortable with the psychic layers surrounding her as Agatha walked back over.


    It took some time, but through subtle hints, Agatha finally grasped what she needed to do while pretending to grow annoyed and then quietly set about, fetching materials to trap Morgana.


    "Do you think that this will stop my power-"


    "Uh, yeah?" Ricky turned back, aware that this vessel needed to be on the level of Dracula, but even then, his mind had grown stronger.


    This wasn''t enough to breach his barrier, something Morgana''s vessel clearly wasn''t capable of.


    "You dare-"


    "Oh cut the sh*t Morgana, you need me." Ricky let out a cynical laugh, spreading his arms with a sleazy smile since she had no ground to stand on.


    "You need all of this and then this." Ricky gestured to himself, really taking the chance to rub it in her face before gesturing to the Ebony blade.


    "The first rule of negotiations is to know who holds the cards and you ain''t got''em sweety, you''re bluffing." Ricky cackled, backing away as she angrily gazed at the departing figure of this miscreant.


    "But you''re not an idiot. You could''ve easily started some shit in the coven, but you didn''t, because you must''ve realized I''m not like my white knight ancestors. I don''t care for stupid sh*t like justice." Ricky paused at the doorway, knowing she wouldn''t dare burn the bridge she was trying so hard to build.


    "After talking to you, I know that you don''t want to make me your enemy. Two, you need me to help you. Three, there are things you''re hiding that I''d probably want, which is why you''re not saying anything. And four, you''re smart enough to realize that making me an ally is easier than an enemy, so you won''t deny it, because I''m literally your only option until someone else takes up the mantle, aka, my kids, BOOM!" Ricky completely and utterly shocked Morgana, leaving her stunned, because in all accounts, he was right and flaunted this deduction since it was sort of his first.


    Morgana stared at him, utterly stunned, as she watched him celebrate gaining the upper hand on her, all while he air-thrusted in the air.


    For all her years of scheming and manipulation, no other Black Knight had ever engaged her so directly or even expressed interest in her quest for this long.


    They either dismissed her outright or pursued acts of righteousness that would benefit others.


    But this was different, this was unprecedented, and here stood the unmistakable, a Black Knight not driven by blind justice but with an unsettling selfish awareness and for the first time, Morgana felt truly outmaneuvered in such a unique way.


    It was disarming.


    What threw her even more was how Ricky had, until this moment, come across as little more than a bumbling fool, comically unfit for the weight of the role he now bore.


    And yet, his words struck her with precision as he actually understood the gravity of the situation far better than she had anticipated.


    This wasn''t about power or personal gain for him; it was about something much more intricate, and that left her at a rare loss for words.


    It was about himself and no one else.


    "How long do you need?" Ricky asked, glancing over at Agatha, who had finished setting up her Wiccan circle.


    "I won''t be able to tweak the vessel internally, but I can reinforce the tainted body with witch spells that will prevent any chances of an explosion. So, thirty minutes," Agatha said, notifying him of the complexity of Morgana''s magic but knowing she could do this much, prompting Ricky to nod in understanding before turning to Morgana.


    "Listen Morgana, it''s been fun but I''m kinda busy doing other stuff." Ricky winked at her, waving goodbye to Morgana before completely turning around.


    "But after, you can''t be a bomb. Please, enjoy yourself in New York. The coven will host you," Ricky said, giving his permission for her to venture out within his territory as long as she doesn''t blow sh*t up.


    The witches and warlocks all looked at Morgana, who gnawed at her lip at how this was turning out.


    Everything wasn''t going to plan, as it always seemed to go with this man. What''s worse, the one foothold she had with the Black Knight was crumbling.


    She could cultivate another vessel, true, but that process would take far too long, and Morgana didn''t want to start over.


    Yet, her power wasn''t enough to overpower Agatha''s with this current conduit, leaving her feeling cornered.


    ''Fine, I have my ways.'' Morgana reluctantly accepted the spells binding her vessel, preventing it from becoming some kind of magical bomb and simply deciding to go about this another way.


    Watching Ricky leave the building, a mix of frustration and determination building within her.


    "What is so important that it must carry on from our conversation?!" Morgana yelled at his back, her frustration bubbling over and Ricky paused at the doorway, turning back with a casual smile that only seemed to fuel her anger further.


    Although Ricky had claimed he was going to join the army and enlist in the officer program in preparation for the upcoming war, there were two vital requirements.


    The first was a recommendation, which he would receive from the president of the United States himself.


    The second was, at a minimum, a high school education paired with a degree to go along with it.


    "I gotta get ready to graduate."


    "I, Morgana Le Fey, went out of my way to personally sit down with you, and you''re turning me down for some education?" Morgana''s voice dripped with disbelief and frustration as she confronted Ricky, her eyes narrowing with a mix of anger and confusion.


    "Yeah, kind of." Ricky thought about it for a moment, shrugging as he shook his head going to leave once more only for Agatha to turn her gaze to him.


    "Are you just going to leave?" Agatha asked, baffled at his sudden readiness to take off as Ricky sighed, ducking his head and turning around.


    "Well yeah-"


    "What are we supposed to do with her, she''s Morgana Le Fey?" Agatha, along with the rest of her coven, turned towards Ricky who didn''t see the big deal.


    "There right Black Knight, I stand at the pinnacle of witchcraft, the epitome of-"


    Snap


    Ricky snapped his fingers, almost muting her within the barrier as she flinched at the act while he turned back towards Agatha.


    "But she isn''t that powerful-"


    "But she infiltrated my coven, broke the rules, and has repeatedly shown she won''t stop until she gets what she wants," Agatha said, her voice trembling slightly with frustration as she tried to explain the situation to Ricky.


    Although Morgana aimed to build a bridge with Ricky and join forces to achieve her goals, that ambition didn''t extend to the others, especially not to New York, and certainly not to her coven.


    "Alright, fine, fine." Ricky held up his hands, showing his surrender before walking up to Morgana.


    "Listen, don''t hurt the coven or any of my people or-"


    "Ricky, seriously, that''s it?" Agatha interrupted him, hearing his half-assed order and frowning.


    "This really isn''t my area and you always tell me how you''ll handle coven business, I really don''t know what you want me to do," Ricky said honestly, knowing how upset she got whenever he inserted himself in coven matters.


    "I-" Agatha opened her mouth but found the fault in her own words, trying to figure out what she wanted before lowering her gaze.


    "Please, Ricky, for me?" Agatha looked up, revealing that softer side of herself that only surfaced around him.


    To the witches and warlocks, she was the tough, hardened woman who tortured those who crossed them, but with Ricky, she let down her guard.


    Sigh


    "Alright, give me a second."


    10 minutes later,


    Having left, it was hard to say no to that level of sincerity from Agatha and Ricky decided to go all out, which is why Asteiron was walking with him.


    "Asterion here will make her swear on the River Styx, but he wants to be shown around the coven since you guys never let him in." Ricky tapped Asterion''s mighty shoulders, fixing the problem but keeping a cautious eye on the excited minotaur as he looked around.


    "Such a fascinating culture!" Asterion couldn''t help but explain, uncaring about Morgana Le Fey who immediately became on guard once her eyes graced the minotaur.


    "I accept the terms, the coven will graciously welcome Asterion for this favor." Agatha nodded her head, seeing no problem in showing Asteiron around the inner workings of the coven they kept hidden from foreigners.


    Agatha eventually finished the sealing, with an on-guard Morgana staring daggers at Asterion, who, unfazed, started talking to Ricky to pass the time.


    "No, no-"


    "But Murphy''s-"


    "Asterion, I love ya man, but if you say Murphy''s has the best pizza, then I''m gonna lose it." Ricky scoffed, his expression souring as he looked away in utter shame, unable to even glance at Asterion.


    "It''s Italiano''s and it''s not even a debate," Ricky shrugged, fully confident in the truth, as if it were one of the commandments of the Bible, if he had any say in it.


    "I''ve finished," Agatha wiped the sweat from her forehead since only she could inscribe such advanced runes onto this powerful witch''s vessel.


    To put it in perspective, it was like carving complex, intricate sentences of literature into stone with nothing but a dull butter knife.


    "Now, do you swear on the river styx-"


    "Wait buddy, she''s really crafty so you go to really make it clear that she can''t just sabotage stuff in my territories, do it like with Elias." Ricky realized, turning towards Asterion and mentioning as the minotaur nodded.


    "Very well, then I shall make it full proof."


    30 minutes later,


    "And if you agree to all of that, swear upon the River Styx," Asterion smiled warmly, his words flowing with such precision that no blade could match their sharpness, the only possible rival being the Ebony Blade itself.


    Even that formidable weapon, usually so confident in its cutting remarks, was left momentarily stunned by the sheer depth of Asterion''s tirade.


    In his eagerness to finally explore the inner workings of the coven, Asterion had gone completely overboard with the promise, his words overwhelming not only the bystanders but also Morgana, who stood frozen with fury, her body quaking in place.


    Although the conduit would bear the brunt of the consequences, Asterion had worded his oath in such a meticulous way that the repercussions would leave Morgana incapacitated for decades if she even considered breaking it.


    The only escape would be a precise act of self-destruction, carried out in a specific location and at a specific time, details all meticulously outlined by Asterion himself.


    "Do you think this is over?" Morgana''s voice was low, her eyes slowly lifting to meet Ricky''s gaze, locking with his as she stared at him.


    Ricky, unflinching, raised his gaze to meet hers, a silent challenge passing between them.


    "Honestly, yeah." Ricky had a smug smile, knowing that not even he could find some stupid way out of Asterion''s wording but he didn''t need to, he was on this side of the table.


    "I, Morgana Le Fey, will most definitely get what I have always desired, and for that reason, I swear." Morgana''s eyes were deadly, yet firm, as she surprisingly agreed to his terms and despite her distaste, Ricky was right, she couldn''t throw away this opportunity.


    For the first time, there was a chance to use the Black Knight to her advantage rather than simply failing to kill him and claiming the Ebony Blade.


    But that didn''t mean Ricky would get his way, she would make sure of that.


    "This isn''t over!" Morgana called out to him, watching him finally walk out the door as he released the mental barriers around her.


    "Uh-huh," Ricky appeased her, uncaring as she yelled behind him while Asterion, grinning from ear to ear, looked over at Agatha, who sighed but couldn''t help smiling too and beckoned him to the side.


    ''I will claim my place atop Camelot''s throne, whatever it takes, no matter the cost.''

 Chapter 156: Chapter 151: Visiting Seemingly Forgotten Places

    156  Chapter 151: Visiting Seemingly Forgotten Places


    Later that night,


    "Are you sure-"


    "Tiger, I''m fine-"


    "That''s exactly what someone who isn''t fine would say," Ricky said, going back and forth with Raven while handling the landline set up in his booth or makeshift office, depending on the beholder.


    Surrounded by an endless sea of papers, Ricky sat with one hand holding the landline and the other scribbling on a form needed to balance the new shipment of supplies for the clubs.


    Raven chuckled on the other end, trying to put up a strong front, but the hand clutching the phone trembled slightly.


    Just then, Raven felt a gentle tug on her expensive dress, one of the ones Ricky kept buying for her, as her eyes dropped to the beautiful blonde curls and innocent blue eyes staring up at her with a sad expression.


    "Why are you so sad?" Danielle asked, sniffing as her mutant ability allowed her to feel Raven''s emotions.


    Danielle had grown very close to Raven since she arrived at the manor, and even closer when she touched her, feeling a warmth and sincerity whenever she looked at her and her dad.


    "Raven, baby, c''mon." Ricky stopped writing, his focus shifting entirely as he had clearly heard the words of his eldest daughter and knew full well what her ability meant.


    But his words were met with nothing but silence, making Ricky close his eyes as he searched for the right words, something to show her just how much she meant to him in this turbulent time.


    "I love you." Ricky suddenly said, catching Raven a little off guard at the abrupt switch in the conversation.


    "I love you too." Raven smiled, feeling a little better as she saw Danielle start to cry and bury her face within the helm of her dress.


    "Alexander, it''s not a good time, stop." Ricky immediately interrupted the moment as Alexander began scratching his palm at his side.


    BAM


    Raven flinched on the other end of the phone, a sound almost like a gunshot ringing out before she started laughing at the absurdity of her new life..


    "AYE, NOT IN THE F*CKING RESTURANT YOU MULE!" Ricky yelled, reprimanding this prideful warhorse that somehow fit in Italiano''s.


    "Thank you, Tiger," Raven said with a warm smile, grateful that Ricky could cheer her up, even if it was unintentional.


    "No problem baby, the only thanks I need are in be-"


    BAM


    "THAT''S IT! DO THAT SH*T ONE MORE TIME, AND I''LL FASHION YOUR LEATHER INTO CHEAP BOOTS!" Ricky roared, his outburst even making Danielle perk up as Raven glanced at the darling little girl beside her, then pressed a kiss to her cheek, earning a delighted giggle.


    "Tiger, I''m going to tuck Danielle in. I''ll see you when you finish work~" Raven purred, her words dripping with a teasing undertone, making Ricky instantly put on a sleazy grin.


    "Oh, you will." Ricky chuckled, completely forgetting about threatening the stubborn mule to his side before he hung up the phone.


    SNORT


    Bucephalus, arrogantly standing to the side, snorted and turned his head, refusing to even acknowledge Ricky as if he weren''t worthy of his gaze.


    "I know, Alexander," Ricky said before Alexander could even speak, his gaze fixed on the gerbil quietly staring at him from the side.


    "If you know, then why must I remind you?" Alexander scowled, scrunching his brows as he tapped his paw as this was the fourth day in a row Ricky had skipped his training.


    Sigh


    "I just¡ªugh, didn''t you do the same thing?" Ricky shot back in disbelief, pointing to the mountain of paperwork that represented his responsibilities.


    "You were a king so-"


    "Nonsense, I delegated all of these meaningless task to the officials while refining myself on the battlefield." Alexander crossed his arms, receiving a slack jaw from Ricky since this was actually the truth.


    Alexander the Great, while undeniably a brilliant military strategist and conqueror, seemed far more interested in the pursuit of exploration and the thrill of conquest than in ruling the territories he claimed. His actions,told through the tales spun threw the weaves of history, showed his priorities of a man driven by a desire to push boundaries of the empire, both literal and metaphorical, rather than a ruler''s dedication to administration.


    Alexander showed little aptitude or interest in governing, even in his homeland of Macedon.


    When he departed for his campaign in Asia, he effectively handed off responsibility with an attitude that could be summarized as throwing the keys to the kingdom at the first person he saw then bolting. His focus was always on the next horizon, not on consolidating or managing what he already possessed.


    In Persia, his actions reflected this pattern and although he adopted aspects of Persian culture and attire, much to the frustration of his Macedonian followers, this was less about governance and more about practicality and personal preference. By aligning himself superficially with Persian customs, he secured their resources and cooperation but left the region''s political structure largely unaltered. It could be said that he just took their money and ran as there was little evidence of an enduring administrative framework being established.


    But about all, some speculate that the clearest testament to his disinterest in governance was his failure to address succession. Alexander left no clear heir or system of succession, a glaring oversight that plunged his empire into chaos upon his death. Rather, the keys were only left to the one dubbed ''The Strongest''.


    "Alexander, what he is trying to say is that he wishes to not only bear the weight of the sword, but also the weight of the pen." Chester calmly explained at the side, taking off his laughable small reading glasses that rested on his beak as Alexnader frowned.


    "Didn''t you have to worry about sh*t like this?" Ricky asked, flabbergasted as he looked at Alexander, who genuinely didn''t seem to understand his troubles.


    "Of course not. Macedon was at its peak with me at the helm. All the greatest minds were concentrated in my capital, and consequently, they ran the administration while I expanded the empire," Alexander spoke with such clarity that even Chester was shocked, his shamelessness on full display which now had Chester slack jawed.


    Delving even further, Alexander the Great was not just a product of his unparalleled military genius but also a figure of extraordinary timing, ascending to the throne during what could be considered Macedonia''s golden generation. His success was as much a result of his own brilliance as it was the environment and individuals surrounding him.


    If it had to be described, the stage was perfectly set for Alexander''s rise. His father, Philip II, had already revolutionized the Macedonian military, transforming it into a powerhouse through reforms such as the introduction of the phalanx with its longer sarissas and the integration of cavalry into coordinated strategies. Philip had also laid the groundwork for Macedonian dominance by unifying the Greek city-states under Macedonian hegemony through the League of Corinth, leaving Alexander with a cohesive and disciplined base from which to launch his conquests.


    Moreover, Alexander inherited a team of exceptional generals, scholars, and advisors who epitomized this golden age. Figures like Parmenion, an experienced general who had served under Philip and provided wisdom and stability; Hephaestion, Alexander''s closest friend and confidant, whose loyalty and leadership were crucial; and Antipater, a skilled administrator who managed Macedon in Alexander''s absence, were all instrumental in the success of his campaigns.


    Even culturally, Macedonia was flourishing, with figures like Aristotle, Alexander''s tutor, shaping his intellectual outlook. Which could even be to blame for this attitude since Aristotle''s teachings had instilled in Alexander a sense of curiosity and ambition that fueled his desire to push ever eastward and explore the unknown which had lead to the figure before them.


    "There was no need for me to bear the weight of the pen, for I had my men do it for me, allowing me to wield the sword in its purest form. Now, come on, we have training to do." Alexander beckoned, while Ricky sat there, literally stunned.


    In Ricky''s eyes, Alexander seemed to be the perfect king, but in reality, he was simply the perfect general.


    It is the reason he is referred to within these texts as the greatest general rather than king, for in most respects, Alexander never bore the weight of the crown but rather the weight of armor.


    "Huh, well look at that. I guess you''re human after all," Ricky said, realizing that while Alexander always came across as this larger-than-life figure, he too had his flaws.


    "What does that mean?" Alexander scrunched his furry brows, sensing the challenge in Ricky''s voice.


    "I mean, I kind of won in this regard," Ricky laughed, realizing this crucial fact, he was technically better at something than Alexander was.


    "W-What?!"


    "Look, I don''t have to do this sh*t, but I want to understand how it all works. You were in the same position and chose to swing your sword instead." Ricky explained, raising his smug nose in the air that made Alexander''s competitive spirt rage.


    "So, I win," Ricky laughed, savoring the sweet taste of victory as Alexander fumed.


    "If I wanted to bear the weight of the pen, I could''ve bore the weight of a hundred pens-"


    "But you didn''t, so I win," Ricky chuckled, scribbling something down as Alexander scowled and moved toward him, only for Meyer to walk in.


    "Aye, Slick. Lucky told me to drop off the briefings for the investor meeting tomorrow." Meyer walked in, placing the papers next to the stack as Ricky shot him a weird look.


    "You know, the meeting where the bank decides which ventures to fund with the growing capital?" Meyer asked, noticing Ricky''s confusion as he pinched the bridge of his nose.


    "Oh f*ck," Ricky''s eyes widened, suddenly remembering it as he grabbed his forehead with Meyer nodding along with his thinking process.


    Everything had become so jam-packed for Ricky that he never really had a chance to focus on it; it had just floated to the back of his mind.


    As it turned out, Ricky had literally studied inverse mental magic as a way to enter his mindscape and explore his past memories, for this exact reason and this exact meeting.


    The entire point of the magic seemed relatively useless for anyone without a past life, but that was precisely why Ricky wanted to dive back into his mind. His memories were so clouded with drugs, alcohol, and women that he could barely recall anything about the companies that had flourished over time. Ford and Coca-Cola were the only ones he remembered as still being around in the ''30s.


    However, with everything going on, he had completely forgotten about it and the main reason he wanted to explore his mind in the first place: to pick out a bunch of companies in the future that he knew would stand the test of time.


    "Listen, I get that family is putting a lot of pressure on you, but not everything has to be a home run, Slick." Meyer sighed, shaking his head at Ricky''s desire to hit it out of the park while sitting down beside him in the booth.


    "I get that it''s been hectic lately, but don''t forget, you don''t have to be perfect and succeed every time. Lucky ain''t like that, he doesn''t care if you succeed every time but rather, learning from the failures." Meyer explained, knowing how desperate Ricky was to fill Lucky''s shoes when he had his own pair on the soles of his feet.


    "Just try, put in some work, and show Lucky that your choices had some thought behind them." Meyer then reached into his pocket, pulling out a slip with some light scribblings on it.


    "So here, these are some of the companies I was thinking of pitching. Do some research tonight on like, two of them, then come to the meeting and pitch them as your own to Lucky, it''ll be fine." Meyer patted Ricky on the shoulder, oblivious to another incident with Jake as he stood up.


    "Thanks, Meyer. I appreciate the thought," Ricky smiled, and Meyer nodded before walking out as once the door closed, Ricky''s head collapsed into his hand.


    These shipment orders needed to be completed and sent tomorrow for his clubs: the Cotton Club, Stork Club, Velvet Veil, and the Mystique Room.


    Although Jake had stopped handling club matters before Ricky came back, part of the reason for his deterioration was the formation of these two new clubs, which were opened under the Luciano influence.


    The Cotton Club and Stork Club had their own reputations and didn''t need further explanation.


    But back then, when Ricky was pitching the ideas to Jake while they were all coked up, he actually went ahead with them.


    Just as Ricky had voiced so long ago, Velvet Veil was a club similar to the Stork Club, but instead of a dining restaurant, it was a snazzy lounge for the upper class. No food, just drinks and cigars, with some light entertainment.


    The membership, however, was where the club raked in all its dough, as it only catered to the elite as it had a very strict no-discretion policy that didn''t even bend to the will of the mobsters.


    Though, it was having trouble gathering the elite of the elite, as most of its members were people who weren''t rich enough to have their names defined by generations, but rather, by the time.


    Then there was the Mystique Lounge, but unlike the Cotton Club, you had to pay an entry fee just to get in. On top of that, it was vastly more expensive compared to the Cotton Club. Because Ricky had allowed black people back in, instead of segregating them, many, if not most, of the white regulars started flocking to the Mystique Lounge. They could afford the higher prices, and the atmosphere felt more exclusive, attracting a different crowd that the Cotton Club repelled.


    However, managing the clubs was incredibly difficult for Ricky, who had little to no experience with it. On top of everything, from vendors and suppliers to all the issues that came with the clubs themselves, he also had to clean vast sums of money for the family. The pressure was mounting, and it seemed like there was no end to the demands on his time and attention.


    "I have a proposal." Alexander''s words rang out, puffing out his chest as Ricky parted his hands, looking at him with a mix of curiosity and exhaustion.


    "I shall take on the weight of the pen and learn how to scribe like my mentor Socrates, if you promise me to carve out time for the sword. Deal?" Alexander held out his furry paw, and Ricky''s eyes widened in surprise.


    This wasn''t some small task; filling out these papers was going to take serious time and focus.


    "You''d do that for me?" Ricky asked, a little taken aback as he wouldn''t wish this on his worst enemy, yet here was Alexander, going out of his way to offer this deal.


    "Of course, we are comrades after all, and comrades bear each other''s burdens." Alexander smiled, seeing Ricky''s astonishment before grabbing his furry hand in a firm shake.


    "Thanks, Alexander. I swear to God, you''re the f*cking best." Ricky stood up, completely putting his trust in Alexander, before grabbing his coat. Ricky''s first priority was his education as he had to track down his tutor, determined to graduate before the school year ended. With that in mind, he''d use whatever remaining time he had during the night to sift through his memories and if that failed, go with the companies Meyer had suggested, hoping to get a solid grasp on them before the meeting.


    Ricky, lost in his thoughts, walked straight into the portal without a second thought. Alexander smirked, watching him disappear, then glanced down at the paper Ricky had been working on.


    As his eyes scanned the page, his confident smile faltered, freezing at the troubling details that lay ahead.


    SUPPLY REQUISITION FORM


    Section 1: Requestor Information


    Name: ______________________________


    Department: _________________________


    Employee ID: ________________________


    Contact Information: ___________________


    Section 2: Supply Details


    Item No.: ___________________


    Item Description: ___________________


    Quantity: ___________________


    Unit Price: ___________________


    Total Cost: ___________________


    Urgency Level (Low/Medium/High): ___________________


    Item No.: ___________________


    Item Description: ___________________


    Quantity: ___________________


    10:00


    Urgency Level (Low/Medium/High): ___________________


    Item No.: ___________________


    Unit Price: ___________________


    Total Cost: ___________________


    Urgency Level (Low/Medium/High): _____________


    Total Estimated Cost: _______________


    Section 3: Justification for Request


    Purpose for supplies: ____________________


    How will these items be used? ___________________


    Section 4: Approval Workflow


    Requestor''s Signature: ____________________


    Manager''s Approval (Signature): _________________


    Budget Approval (Signature): ____________________


    Procurement Approval (Signature): ____________________


    Section 5: Delivery Information


    Preferred Delivery Location: ____________________


    Delivery Deadline: _________________


    This was only the most basic form for the supply requisition, but it left Alexander completely frozen because of one reason.


    "I have not the slightest clue what I''m looking at," Alexander admitted, his voice laced with both confusion and frustration as he stared at the sheet. Chester, standing nearby, couldn''t help but chuckle at the sight of the usually composed Alexander so flustered at the sight of paperwork.


    "Do you want me to do it-"


    "No, I shall take on this beast and slay it with the ink at my side," Alexander declared, squinting at the mighty foe that was paperwork, his resolve hardening as he prepared to battle it with all the determination of a warrior.


    "But, some assistance on this matter would be appreciated." Alexander shamelessly coughed, side-eyeing Chest who chuckled lightly.


    "Alright, let''s start with item numbers-"


    Meanwhile at a familiar house,


    Knock


    Knock


    "Henry, honey, can you get the door?" Jenifer asked, glancing over at the neatly arranged table she had set, her hands still lingering over the delicate placement of the plates.


    Jennifer, unlike Ricky''s other baby mamas, wasn''t drifting from place to place or staying off the radar. Instead, she had firmly settled down in her native borough of Long Island, creating a stable life for herself and their child.


    She was bold enough to once march up to Lucky''s front doorstep, pregnant and determined, demanding child support. Most of Ricky''s flings had been fleeting one-night stands before he became a household name, his face plastered all over the papers, which led to the scattered migration of his baby mamas.


    But Jennifer knew exactly who Ricky was from the start and it was through that bold audacity, standing firm in her own identity, that she earned Lucky''s quiet respect, a rare feat in his world.


    Even with Ricky back in the picture, Jennifer had made no effort to contact him as she didn''t want that life for Henry. She knew exactly who Ricky was and what his family represented, having grown up under the shadow of tales about Profaci and the life that came with it.


    Jennifer was resolute in her decision to shield her bright and beautiful boy from the taint of mobster dealings. She refused to let Henry become a pawn in a world fueled by violence and corruption, wanting him to grow up healthy and happy, without a predetermined destination set out for him.


    But staying away didn''t guarantee Ricky wouldn''t reach out.


    Henry opened the door, holding his book in one hand and turning the knob with the other, revealing Ricky standing there with a toothy grin and a bouquet of roses in hand.


    Instead of the usual back-and-forth about who Ricky was, Henry looked at his father with a calm demeanor, knowing full well who Ricky was since Jennifer had never hidden where half of his genes came from.


    "Mother, father has come-"


    Crash


    A plate clattered to the floor, its shards scattering across the corner as Jennifer peeked over, catching sight of Ricky with his signature sleazy smile.


    "Honey, go back to your reading time," Jennifer said softly, walking over to plant a kiss on Henry''s forehead. He gazed up at his long lost father, then down at his book with a plot he had yet to uncover, before promptly choosing the tales of text rather than the sweet reunion with Ricky.


    "Oof." Ricky narrated this act, watching Henry walk over to the side and sit on his reading chair.


    "So is he like in timeout or-"


    "Actually, Henry loves reading but does it so much I worry for him, which is why I limit it so it doesn''t take away from his life," Jennifer explained, taking the roses and walking back to the dining room table as Ricky followed closely behind, shamelessly staring at her ass.


    "Well, that''s good I guess." Ricky shrugged, not really into reading himself but happy that at least his kid enjoyed something.


    "Ricky, if you''re here for a late-night booty call, then I''ll have to decline your request." Jennifer bent over, only for Ricky to gently take her hand, picking up the shards in her place with a smile.


    "That''s not why I''m here but I''d be down to accommodate you-"


    "I''ll manage," Jennifer said, turning away, leaving Ricky to help as he carefully picked up the pieces of the plate.


    "But before you speak, let me tell you that Henry is off-limits," Jennifer said, walking back to the kitchen and opening the cupboard while Ricky frowned immediately, his gaze fixed on her ass still but not with a sleazy smile, but a large frown. "Are you telling me I can''t see my kid?" Ricky scrunched his brows, crossing his arms as Jenifer turned around and lightly shook her head.


    ""No, I''m telling you that you can''t make him a mobster," Jennifer revealed, her tone firm as Ricky''s expression shifted to one of understanding.


    "Well, what if he wants to follow in his old man''s footsteps-"


    "I don''t!" Henry called from the living room, interrupting them as he overheard their conversation, earning a frown from Ricky before he sighed, rubbing his temple.


    "Listen, all I want is for Henry to be happy, and if books get him off, then he can go nuts." Ricky''s words made Jennifer sigh, shaking her head before rising off the plate and walking toward the table.


    "So after everything that has transpired within the city, you really aren''t here for that?" Jennifer asked, raising an eyebrow at his words as Ricky held up his hands.


    "Listen, you''re his mom, I''m not trying to overstep, and if you think that''s best for him, then I ain''t gonna go around you," Ricky gestured with his hands, his voice calm but firm while Jennifer closed her eyes, letting out a sigh.


    "Scout''s honor, I ain''t trying to recruit him or nothin'' like that," Ricky spoke, his tone sincere as he met Jennifer''s gaze as she nodded, her expression softening a little.


    "Fine." Jenifer, finally accepting his presence, didn''t go unnoticed by Henry who looked up from his book and actually acknowledged Ricky''s existence.


    "Father," Henry greeted, his tone as if he had just stepped into the bounds of the house, and Ricky chuckled at the formality.


    "Son." Ricky tipped his nonexistent hat to him, his eyes trailing down to what he thought was a picture book, only to see Catcher in the Rye.


    "Why isn''t he reading a picture book or something?" Ricky quietly asked, watching Henry flip the page with a focused expression.


    "He doesn''t like those, and I don''t prefer this term, but he can be described as a genius," Jenifer promptly explained, her face growing solemn at the mere mention of the word.


    Jennifer recognized early on, as Henry''s mother, that he possessed qualities far beyond those of other children his age, qualities often associated with geniuses. His comprehension of material across a wide range of subjects was extraordinary, and by the time he was two, there had already been multiple attempts by others to push him into accelerated learning programs and a vast range of studies.


    But Jennifer stood firm.


    Now that Henry had just turned four, Jennifer''s conviction was stronger than ever as she understood, as a teacher, how critical a childhood was for a child''s development. She had witnessed too many so-called prodigies crushed, not by their talents, but by the relentless weight of expectations imposed by their parents and society.


    The horrible truth about raising a genius wasn''t what it took to recognize one, it was the cost of cultivating one.


    Jennifer had seen children pushed to the brink of emotional and mental collapse, their joy in life stripped away in pursuit of greatness. She refused to let Henry become another cautionary tale and instead, she was determined to give him a childhood filled with curiosity, freedom, and the space to grow at his own pace, without the suffocating burden of premature achievement.


    Ding


    "My casserole is done, hold on." Jennifer''s head jerked back toward the kitchen as she walked away, leaving Ricky to briefly check her out before nodding to himself.


    ''She''s still got it.''


    After being left alone, Ricky glanced around and suddenly noticed portraits hanging on the walls.


    They weren''t just of Jennifer and Henry, but there, among them, was one of him.


    It took him by surprise to see the framed newspaper clippings as he carefully pulled one of the portraits with his sleazy smile from the wall, revealing it to be the iconic photo of himself after his victory from the trial in Texas.


    Then, to the side, Ricky noticed a photo binder with the label ''Henry''s Father'' written on the side.


    "I never hid who his father was from him, since that would be cruel," Jenifer answered, as if reading Ricky''s thoughts as she walked over and placed the casserole in the center of the table.


    "Thank you," Ricky said, surprised since he had expected Jennifer to hide his existence, but instead, she made Henry painfully aware of it, dedicating entire evenings to scrapbooking his newspaper clippings.


    "Are you staying for dinner?" Jennifer asked, placing a hand on her hip and tilting her head with a stern expression while Ricky looked down at his stomach, then back at her, before shrugging.


    "I mean, if you don''t mind." Jennifer nodded, exiting briefly before returning with a plate, setting it down in front of Ricky who was now sitting, placing the utensils with a calculated ease. "Henry, dinner," Jennifer called, as Henry closed his book, placing it neatly to the side before walking over.


    Then as if it was practiced beforehand, Jennifer and Henry both sat at their respective heads of the table.


    As Jennifer went to prepare the alignment of her utensils, Henry unfolded his napkin and gently placed it in his lap. All the while, Ricky stood awkwardly, his hand reaching for the casserole before retracting it, unsure of where to place himself in the moment.


    "Can I?" Ricky had to ask, thinking that he also needed to fold or align something since at Lucky''s house, he usually just dug in when he sat down.


    "Yes, but pass the mashed potatoes." Jennifer assured him, reaching out as Ricky handed her the mashed potatoes, but not before scooping a generous portion for himself first.


    The clinking of silverware resonated in the quiet room, the silence thick between them since instead of small talk, the pair of mother and son had grown accustomed to the stillness while eating. Ricky couldn''t help but break it with a cough, taking a sip of water to clear his throat.


    "So, Jenifer, you still teaching?" Ricky asked, his voice cutting through the quiet as Jenifer carefully sliced into the casserole.


    "If you must know, I actually quit." Jenifer easily revealed, having given her notice years ago.


    "After Henry, I took a step away from teaching. With the money from Lucky, I was able to take the time to raise him from infancy before moving on to the next step," Jenifer explained, her eyes briefly meeting Ricky''s before she continued with her meal.


    "While I was nursing Henry those months, I had a lot of time to really think about my role in the education system as a whole. I realized I could do more within the administration side of things," Jenifer continued, her tone thoughtful as she spoke, unveiling the hidden passion that had been dug up through her maternity leave.


    "Right now, I work within the district, but I think my path will eventually lead to the position of superintendent," Jenifer said with a confident smile, as if the ambition was already a part of her.


    "Wow, superintendent," Ricky said, his expression one of genuine surprise as he didn''t really know what the role entailed, but the title sounded important and impressive so he really went for it.


    However instead of continuing the conversation, the silence once again settled at the table as Ricky looked around at the two eating with a sophisticated ease.


    "Aren''t you going to ask about me?" Ricky chuckled, a teasing grin spreading across his face and Jenifer, without missing a beat, pointed her fork toward him with a raised eyebrow.


    "Our mother-son scrapbooking time has fiercely covered your extensive history and don''t give me that look, it''s a good bonding time," Jenifer said, sternly swatting that budding joke that was about to come out of Ricky''s pursed lips.


    "Something you might not have been privy to," Jenifer said with a playful jab, but it made Ricky scoff with a fake smile, trying to brush it off.


    "Yeah, well, I didn''t scrapbook with my mother growing up," Ricky said, acting as if it didn''t bother him, but the thought of his own mother brought a scowl to his face, one that didn''t escape the notice of either Henry or Jenifer.


    "I-I didn''t know-"


    "It''s fine," Ricky muttered, rubbing his forehead, clearly uncomfortable with the topic of his mother.


    "Father, why are you here?" Henry asked, cutting straight to the point as Ricky rubbed the back of his neck, slightly taken aback by his son''s directness.


    "Honestly, cause I don''t have anyone else to go to."


    Out of all the classes Ricky took, the only one he actually put effort into was Jenifer''s. He earned a C+, a grade he felt decent about, considering the fact that his only motivation for studying was to get closer to her and her pants. High school hadn''t been a priority for Ricky as he dropped out early, opting instead for the life of a black knight. But now, however, he faced a new challenge: in order to enter the officer program, he''d need a GED.


    "Ricky." Jenifer''s gaze sharpened, her expression revealing her clear distrust. She couldn''t help but wonder if he was just trying to find a way back into her good graces or worse, into her pants.


    "What? I''m serious, I need help-"


    "It seems very out of character." Henry, who had been educated on his father from his mothers observations, revealed as Jenifer also nodded along.


    "Very, you never showed interest in-"


    "Oh mother, didn''t he say he would join the army?" Henry suddenly remembered, having cut out the article about the subject himself and calling forward a recollection in Jenifer.


    "Ah, so that didn''t mean you would join the enlisted but a-"


    "Officer program, yeah, I made a deal with that old fogey." Ricky muttered, referring to the president of the United States in such a way as Jenifer lightly rested her knife.


    "Hmmmmmmm." Jenifer hummed, her expression mulling over his words as she picked up her knife. She continued eating the casserole she had slaved over, making it clear that Ricky''s words weren''t enough to earn her full attention just yet.


    "Oh come on, I''m serious-"


    "Father, you must understand, mother is very busy with work right now." Henry interrupted, trying to explain his mother''s sudden silence.


    "Then just throw my name around, and you''ll get what you want." Ricky leaned on his hand, his tone casual, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world as he pulled out a card, flashing it with a confident smirk.


    "If someone gives you sh*t, show them this card and they''ll back off." Ricky gestured, placing the infamous card that was making its rounds across the gossip corner of New York.


    "Hmmmmmmm." Jenifer hummed even deeper, her fingers brushing over the card as she knew all too well how hard it was to climb the ladder built by men, for men.


    Jenifer wasn''t the type of person to take free things handed out to her, in fact, she shared this shamelessness with Ricky. She was smart enough to understand the setbacks caused by her gender, knowing that nothing was ever truly free, and that favors often came with strings attached.


    This card, this proclaimed golden ticket in the gossip circles, was the very thing that made her lean in even deeper, as the string it carried subtly linked itself to Ricky.


    However, no words were spoken after that loud hum. Instead, Jennifer sat in silence, her mind racing while her stern expression deepened, her eyebrows furrowing into a scrunch. Ricky simply watched her, his gaze unwavering, until her thoughtful expression led her to the door once she''d finished.


    After dinner, Ricky leaned against the doorway with a toothy smile, as Jennifer finally fazed up and gently patted his chest.


    "Every Tuesday, five p.m. sharp," Jennifer gave him the time, her tone steady but firm as she offered to help him, but Ricky grabbed her hand, rubbing it gently with a sleazy smile.


    "Are you sure you don''t want to talk about this a little more in-depth through the night?" Ricky leaned in, a playful smirk on his face. Jennifer laughed softly, brushing her fingers across his chin before kissing him on the cheek.


    "No." Jennifer replied firmly, taking a step back and slamming the door in his face while Ricky stood still for a moment, blinking in surprise, then nodded.


    "Figured it wouldn''t be that easy. Worth a shot, though." Ricky shrugged, backing up a few steps before rubbing the back of his neck, a slight grin tugging at his lips as he turned to leave.


    Walking back to his car, Ricky drove silently, humming a tune here and there, his mind elsewhere, until he arrived at the mansion. He parked with the engine still purring before heading inside, receiving a greeting from Raven who kissed his cheek while Danielle hugged his leg. Spending some quality time with his loved ones, Ricky found a rare sense of peace in the simplicity of his life before eventually retreating to his study.


    Once inside, he moved to his desk, where papers were spread out, notes on the mental landscape he''d studied back when he was in Agatha''s coven. Mental magic, in its simplest form, involves projecting your consciousness outward to create a link with others, allowing for communication or influence. This typically requires focusing on the target, forming a tether of energy that connects both minds. It''s a bit like sending out a mental signal, allowing you to speak or feel someone else''s thoughts and emotions through the link.


    However, what Ricky was studying was a far more complex and inward form of mental magic, one that required projecting not his consciousness outward, but rather pulling his essence deep into his own mindscape. He actually got the idea from the cave of regrets and sort of piggy backed this experience into this technique that involved diving into the depths of his own subconscious, using his magic to create a connection between his physical self and the vast, layered realm inside his mind.


    In essence, Ricky wasn''t just thinking; he was merging his awareness with the very structure of his mind. But the problem was that he didn''t know how to navigate through his own mind, the complex mental landscape that was a series of memories, emotions, and fragmented thoughts.


    If one had to describe walking into a mindscape, much less your own, then it would be as if walking through a vast maze. Each layer of his mind held different aspects of his psyche: suppressed memories, unprocessed emotions, desires, fears, and his inner conflicts.


    The mind operates less like a linear timeline and more like a vast, disjointed collection of fragments. Memories, emotions, and experiences don''t always line up in a clear, ordered way; instead, they exist in an interconnected web, with certain emotions or experiences linked to others in ways that don''t always make sense. The mind often prioritizes or dismisses certain memories based on emotional significance, personal value, or the sheer randomness of the way connections form.


    This is why some moments in life can feel so vividly detailed, even if they happened years ago, while other events may be entirely forgotten or only remembered as hazy, fragmented snippets.


    A scent, a sound, or even a place can trigger a memory, pulling together moments from the past that have long since been buried under the weight of more recent experiences.


    This lack of order meant that he couldn''t always control what he encountered as he could seek one memory, but his subconscious might send him down an entirely different path which had left him to being stalled since he really didn''t want to go down a random rabbit hole and waste so much time


    SIGH


    "F*ck it," Ricky muttered under his breath, his voice barely audible in the quiet room as his fingers dug into his scalp, pressing against his temple as if he could force himself into focus. "Come on." Ricky muttered again, focusing his mind with all his willpower and drawing in magic from his core, down into his nexus pathways, visualizing it as a glowing force that can intertwine with his neurons. Then, after finding the flow within himself, Ricky suddenly channeled that flow directly into his brain, more or less seeing it as liquid magic flowing through his body and into his brain.


    There weren''t any runes or spells involved but rather a mass infusion of mana that enhanced his brain''s activity, heightening his cognitive abilities and unlocking deeper parts of his consciousness.


    By infusing his brain with mana, the magic works like a form of augmentation.


    Mana can be considered a universal energy in many systems that can be used for a wide variety of purposes with mana often described as a life force or energy that flows through everything. So when Ricky directed this energy into his mind, it''s like giving his brain this surge of power, allowing it to process information faster, access deeper memories, and work more efficiently.


    It''s why it doesn''t really rely on structured spells but rather a more raw and potent use of magical energy to increase his cognitive function.


    In essence, the mana is a catalyst for his brain, unlocking hidden parts of his consciousness.


    But if one needed it to be placed into further perspective, think of it like someone using caffeine to temporarily enhance their mental clarity and help them focus, but in this case, the magic does it much more powerfully and with less predictable results.


    Ricky frowned, feeling the magic settle into his own mind as it felt like his head was underwater while his entire body was scorching hot.


    But after getting to this point, Ricky had to start to disconnect his awareness from his physical body. Trying his hardest to imagine himself but completely separate from his flesh, a fluid, ethereal presence that can move beyond the limits of his body. This took way longer than simply injecting mana into his brain before he finally let go of his physical form, his awareness begins to shift into the mental plane. After hours had passed, Ricky finally opened his eyes as his entire field of vision was consumed by a vast expanse of white, however, as his gaze shifted forward, a frown crept across his face.


    "Oh great, it''s you." Ricky opened his eyes and groaned at the sight of a familiar face, except this time, instead of a bartender, he appeared as a mobster.


    "It is me, your subconscious." Ricky''s subconscious smiled at him, slicking its hair back and showing off its new mobster attire.


    "I thought that sh*t only applied to that freaky-ass cave," Ricky muttered, walking through the expanse of whiteness toward a door at the far end as his subconscious followed him, matching his stride and signaling he would join him on this journey.


    "Well, yes, but those were manifestations of your regrets. I''m simply what you call your subconscious, that little voice in your head that always lingers at the very edge of your thoughts." His subconscious continued, almost lecturing him, as Ricky shot him a side-eye.


    "Then if I want you to leave, will you?" Ricky asked, reaching for the door as his subconscious nodded.


    "Of course, but do I bother you to the point where you''d need to shut me out?" His subconscious genuinely inquired, and Ricky thought about it for a moment before shrugging.


    "Whatever, just don''t get in the way of me getting rich off my past knowledge." Ricky muttered, his hand gripping the door handle as he pushed it open, revealing his first-ever core memory.


    "Great~" Ricky sighed, stepping into the familiar living room of his childhood home, the room now frozen in time, just as he remembered it from his younger years. The faded wallpaper, the worn-out furniture, it was all there, exactly how it used to be, exactly how his childhood suburban home was to him.


    There, in the center of the living room, sat his eight-year-old self, happily playing with a toy car.


    There was no perversion, no corruption, no foul words, just an innocent kid sitting on the rug, enjoying life in its purest, unblemished form.


    Ricky zoned out as he stared at his younger self, still so pure, untouched by the wickedness of the world. The innocence in the child''s eyes only made him feel a pang of something he couldn''t quite name. But before he could linger too long in the moment, a distinct whistling sound cut through the stillness of the room with a haunting, beautiful hum. But when it echoed in his ears, instead of a familiar warm smile, his expression turned into a deep, ugly frown.


    "What is that enchanting sound-" His subconsciousness wondered with awe, his eyes glittering with curiosity before Ricky crudely interrupted him.


    "F*cking Barry Manilow," Ricky muttered hatefully, the name rolling off his tongue like a bitter poison, as he turned his head in disgust.


    There was only one person Ricky knew who played and sang Barry Manilow, the one person who had been obsessed with this damn song, someone he thought he had forgotten.


    Ricky''s Mother, Bella Freeman.

 Chapter 157 - 152: A Trip Down Memory Lane

    Chapter 157: Chapter 152: A Trip Down Memory Lane


    "You know, I can''t smile without you~" Bella''s enchanting voice suddenly peeked around the corner, her head popping out with a warm smile directed towards Ricky''s past self.


    "I can''t smile without you~" Bella chuckled in her singing tone, dancing towards Ricky''s past self who lit up at the sight of what appeared to be his loving mother


    "I can''t laugh and I can''t sing, I''m finding it hard to do anything~" Bella danced towards him, prancing around the living room while Ricky''s past self bobbed side to side to the tune of her lovely voice.


    "You see I feel sad when you''re sad, I feel glad when you''re glad~" Bella strolled over to Ricky, grabbing both his hands and starting to do a little dance with the chuckling child.


    She wore a sad expression, and Ricky''s younger self instinctively mirrored it and then, as her face lit up with a smile, his own expression shifted just as quickly, perfectly matching the rhythm of the lyrics.


    "If you only knew, what I''m going through~" Bella showed a pained expression, dramatically pulling Ricky closer as he giggled madly in her embrace.


    "I just can''t smile without you!" Bella declared overdramatically, grabbing his cheeks and peppering his face with kisses while he laughed uncontrollably.


    "How touching." His subconscious smiled warmly, glancing at Ricky, whose expression twisted into pure disgust.


    "It would be, if she wasn''t such a psychotic cunt," Ricky hissed, watching as the woman pulled his younger self closer, forcing him to look into her deranged eyes.


    "My darling baby boy, Mommy has to go out for a bit, alright?" Bella cooed, rubbing her cheek against his while Ricky''s younger self giggled, nodding eagerly, oblivious to the real meaning behind her words.


    "And remember, if Daddy asks where Mommy''s been, you say?" Bella prompted, her voice sweet yet firm, guiding the eight-year-old Ricky towards a certain sentence of words as he puffed out his chest.


    "I say, ''Mommy was with me the whole time'' and always take Mommy''s side!" Ricky declared with a proud salute, prompting Bella to twirl him around as she laughed warmly.


    "That''s my baby boy! And remember, no one loves or understands you like Mommy does!" Bella cooed, planting a kiss on teh younger Ricky''s cheek, a gesture of reassurance before she turned and walked out of the house.


    It was then that the younger Ricky stepped up to the window, his gaze fixed on Bella as she ran towards the car, laughing wildly with her friends, their voices blending into the day that would stay out all night.


    Then, just before slipping inside the car, Bella turned back with a wide smile, pressing a finger to her lips in a shushing gesture before miming a zipper across them and without hesitation, young Ricky mirrored her perfectly.


    Then, as Bella slipped into the car, young Ricky''s eyes landed on the driver, a woman around his mother''s age.


    She gestured towards him with a warm wave, but there was something off about her gaze, something lingering, something predatory.


    The current Ricky gazed at the scene with a blank, hollow expression, the memory pressing down on him before he turned away, his gaze drifting around the room.


    This magic was born from the triggers in the mind, those fleeting details that stood out the most, linking memories together in a web of vivid connections.


    The issue was that Ricky had no way of knowing what would trigger the next memory, as he was still learning the nuances of this magic.


    So, he started roaming through the memory, moving through the familiar scenes, knowing that the next one could unlock something valuable, a deep, rich mine of untapped potential, waiting to be uncovered.


    This world of his felt different, Ricky could sense that much, but there were similarities that clung to this new life that were vividly the same from his past life.


    Every opportunity in this warped version of his past was a potential goldmine, and Ricky was ready to leverage the hell out of any advantage he could find.


    "What part of this memory is the strongest, I wonder?" His subconscious remarked from the side and Ricky shot him a side-eye, gesturing toward a door as he rolled his eyes in response.


    "Are you just here for commentary, or can you actually be useful?" Ricky asked, expecting some help from his own subconscious and instead, he watched as it blissfully pretended to be ignorant of the entire situation.


    "If you put it like that, it sounds like I''m a bother-"


    "Well, I''m glad we got that out of the way." Ricky said, walking toward the kitchen, only to suddenly find himself in his bedroom instead.


    It was his childhood bedroom, a time in his life when he was transitioning into his teenage years, shedding the skin of a small child and inching toward something more complicated.


    Right now, he was around thirteen, his hormones beginning to stir, evident as his teenage self slowly pulled a dirty magazine from beneath his pillow, glancing around nervously before opening it.


    Ricky, however, ignored the scene playing out before him since he had already experienced it and was painfully uninterested.


    Instead, he wandered the room, scanning the labels on his old toys and the crumpled wrappers strewn about.


    "Coca-Cola can, a Kit Kat bar... c''mon, where''s the juicy stuff?" Ricky muttered, sighing as he glanced around his room.


    Ricky walked over to his closet, opening it with a sense of curiosity, as his subconscious observed the scene about to play out with an almost bemused expression.


    "Is this where your obsession with sex manifested-"


    "Ricky, are you in here?" A voice called out, the door creaking slightly open to reveal the same friend of his mother from the memory before, standing in the doorway with a curious glance.


    "N-No!" The younger version of Ricky quickly shoved the magazine under his pillow, but her gaze drifted down to his shorts as she licked her lips.


    The teenage Ricky followed her gaze, glancing down before quickly covering his shorts, his face flushing bright red.


    Meanwhile, Ricky stepped out of the closet, frowning while scratching the back of his head while still looking around.


    "Man, all there are are Playboys and old socks, let''s go-" Ricky muttered absentmindedly, but then his gaze drifted as he saw the memory unfold before him, his subconscious wearing a sad frown on the side.


    "Mrs. Henderson, it''s not what-"


    "Oh, dear. Call me Lindsy," Lindsy said with a warm smile, walking over and sitting on the bed.


    The teenage Ricky inched further away, nervous at the woman lowering her cleavage into his view.


    "And it''s natural for boys your age to be curious about their bodies," Lindsy said softly, her hand slowly drifting to rest on his leg, causing Ricky''s blush to deepen.


    "But it''s an adult''s responsibility to help you truly understand those feelings. Don''t you want to understand them?" Lindsy asked, her fingers tracing gentle circles on his leg as she slowly inched them up his thigh.


    Crash


    The teenage Ricky, caught in the whirlwind of the moment, subconsciously leaned back and fell off the edge of his bed.


    His nightstand crashed down, and a green frog toy suddenly pressed a button, rolling to the side beneath the present Ricky''s feet.


    "Let me help you, Ricky. Let me help you release those pent-up feelings." Lindsy smiled, standing over the panting, flushed Ricky as her top slowly slid down as she crawled atop him.


    "How old were you-"


    "I was thirteen," Ricky interrupted his own subconscious but suddnely turned away.


    His subconscious thought he couldn''t bear to witness the loss of his innocence, but strangly enough he wasn''t turning away from the scene before him, but from the door he was trying to avoid looking at.


    "WHAT ARE YOU TWO DOING!"


    It was there, right in the doorway, where Bella ssuddenly appeared, fury evident in her stance.


    She screamed at the top of her lungs at the scene of her best friend overing topless above her teenage son, her anger boiling over in the heat of the moment while Lindsy''s head jerked to the side, her face immediately draining of color, growing pale.


    "I-It''s not what it looks like, Bella! He came onto me, and I had no choice!" Lindsy quickly pointed, backing away and scrambling for her clothes while the young and naive Ricky froze, unable to move at the words trickling from this lying woman''s mouth.


    "But she-" Ricky tried to explain, only to be interrupted by the waterworks of Lindsy.


    "He threatened me, he said he would hurt my kids if I didn''t go along with it~" Lindsy began to cry, her voice trembling as Bella''s face twisted with fury as the young Ricky, still naked, slowly stood up.


    "Mom, that''s not-"


    SLAP


    In a strange turn of events, Bella slapped Ricky across the face, the force of it making him stumble to the side and slowly, he turned back, meeting the hollow, disgusted gaze of his mother.


    This was the moment Ricky''s innocence was stolen from him, the first false accusation of rape thrown his way, a seed that would eventually corrode him into the horrific man he would become.


    The young and impressionable Ricky turned pale as he met his mother''s disgusted gaze as her eyes looked down on him, as though he were nothing more than a pervert.


    "I can''t believe I raised such a vile boy."


    Bella left without another word, helping Lindsy up and guiding her out of the room.


    Meanwhile, the naked, younger version of Ricky curled into a ball, trembling as the distant wail of police sirens grew closer.


    The present-day Ricky had seen enough and with a heavy sigh, he stepped through the door, only to throw his hands up in frustration as the next memory unfolded before him.


    "For f*cks sake-"


    "Your Honor, I have new evidence to support the claim that Ricky Freeman was the victim in this ordeal!" The lawyer stood up, raising a clear bag that contained a familiar frog toy.


    His subconscious followed closely, manifesting behind him as they watched the courtroom unfold.


    Ricky sat at the defendant''s table, hollow-eyed and defeated, while across the room, his mother consoled Lindsy, offering comfort to the very person who had accused him, as he stood trial for a crime he didn''t commit.


    Bella hadn''t even spared a second to believe Ricky, accepting her friend''s words without question and going so far as to call the cops on him.


    The only reason he was even here was that his father had paid for a lawyer, not to prove his innocence, but merely to lessen the conviction, choosing to stand by Bella instead.


    "The court will allow it," the judge declared, motioning for the lawyer to proceed.


    Stepping forward, the lawyer held up the green frog toy, pressing a specific button before raising it for the entire courtroom to see.


    "Let me help you Ricky, let me help you express those pent up feelings."


    Lindsy''s own words echoed from the frog toy, filling the silent courtroom.


    The recording sent a chilling stillness through the room, freezing everyone in place as Lindsy''s face twisted in horror, while Bella stood in stunned disbelief.


    "OBJECTION-" Lindsy''s lawyer''s face twisted in panic, desperate to stop the toy from playing its next damning recording.


    "OVERRULED!" The judge thundered, slamming his gavel down as his expression twisted in disgust as he turned his glare to Lindsy, pointing the gavel directly at her.


    "Bailiff, arrest Lindsy Henderson," the judge ordered, his voice firm and unwavering as the mere thought that he had nearly condemned an innocent child made his stomach churn with disgust.


    "N-No, I can explain! Really!" Lindsy shot up from her seat, desperation clinging to her voice but the bailiff was already on her, seizing her arms as she struggled.


    Meanwhile, Ricky remained still in his chair, staring blankly at the ground, his expression hollow, unmoved by the justice that had finally come too late.


    Just because he was found innocent didn''t erase the trial, the endless months of being torn apart on the stand, ridiculed by the very people he once thought loved him.


    It destroyed him.


    The loving, happy child who once saw the world through rose-tinted glasses was gone.


    In his place stood someone who finally saw the world for what it truly was.


    And what people truly were.


    Monsters.


    People always speculated about why Ricky became the way he was with some whispering about a crude, pervertedness that had always been inside him, as if he had been born rotten.


    Others assumed he had simply chosen to be this way, deciding to give into his hateful, lustful tendencies.


    But the funny thing was, Ricky wasn''t some evil man who just woke up one day and decided to be a piece of trash.


    He wasn''t some villain who made a conscious choice to descend into depravity.


    He was simply treated like one.


    They called him a monster before he ever had the chance to prove otherwise, they cast him out, abandoned him, and let the weight of their own judgment crush whatever innocence he had left.


    He was Frankenstein''s monster, stitched together from the broken pieces of betrayal, pain, and false accusations, and just like the creature in the old tale, he hadn''t started as a monster.


    But when the world treats you like one for long enough, even you start to believe it.


    At this revelation, Bella''s hand shot up to cover her mouth in shock as her eyes flickered over to Ricky, and in a split second, her expression shifted.


    She stood and walked toward him, her smile almost practiced, an attempt to mask the uncomfortable realization settling in, with fake sincerity plastered across her face.


    Yet, she moved with a deliberate calm, as if trying to convince herself more than anyone else.


    "Ricky sweety, mommy is-"


    "Right, you were right." Ricky swatted her hand away, standing up with a hollow smile that didn''t reach his eyes as he walked past the current version of himself, who merely side-eyed his younger self.


    "I''m just some vile boy, so who cares, right?" The younger Ricky spun around, his hollow eyes filling with a pulsating, uncontrollable rage.


    Tears trickled down his cheeks, but they quickly vanished as he turned and ran away, leaving the broken remnants of his innocence behind.


    His subconscious watched as Bella chased after him, desperately trying to salvage her image and reputation, because that''s all that truly mattered to her rather than the suffering of her own child.


    She didn''t care about Ricky, not really.


    She didn''t care if he was right or wrong; all she cared about was appearing on the right side to look the best.


    But after siding with Lindsy, and hearing the testimonies of her ridiculing Ricky to his face, it broke him completely.


    It left him spiraling, his young mind grappling with the bitter irony since if that''s all he was, a monster, a piece of trash, then he might as well act like one.


    "Can you believe IBM has been around this long?" A man on the side turned to his friend, pointing at the quarterly results they posted, shaking his head in disbelief.


    "Well, if you''ve been around as long as they have, you must know a thing or two," the other man laughed, while the current Ricky nodded along with a wide smile.


    "Wow, that must have been-"


    "F*cking finally, thank god I got something good," Ricky thought, mentally noting it before the memory slipped away as he exited the courtroom.


    "Alright, let''s go," Ricky muttered, sitting up and watching everything fade around him while following the memory out, only to find himself standing in front of a gas station.


    "RICKY, RICKY!" Bella yelled from the side, stomping over with a furious expression.


    All the while the teenage Ricky sat on a car with a couple other delinquents, casually sharing a joint, his eyes barely glancing at her as the tension between them simmered.


    "Who''s the babe-"


    "Trust me, guys, she''s batsh*t crazy, totally not worth it," Ricky laughed, taking a slow puff and holding the smoke in his lungs before passing the joint to the side, his smirk never fading as he watched Bella''s furious approach.


    "DO YOU KNOW THAT THE HOA HAS FOUND OUT-" Bella screamed, marching right up to the teenage Ricky who blew the puff of smoke into her face.


    COUGH


    COUGH


    Almost immediately, Bella let out a nasty cough from the secondhand smoke, her face scrunching in disgust.


    The sight of her discomfort sent Ricky reeling with laughter, clutching his stomach as he doubled over, thoroughly enjoying the moment.


    SLAP


    In the next second, Bella slapped Ricky across the face, that familiar fury evident as the scorching redness bloomed on her skin, highlighting the intensity of her anger.


    "HOW DARE YOU!" Bella shouted, pointing a trembling finger at him while the teenage Ricky merely flashed a sleazy smile, rubbing his cheek where her slap had landed, unfazed by her outburst.


    "What did I do this time? Wait, don''t tell me, did I f*ck one of your friends, except this time for real?" Ricky cackled, his laugh laced with malice, making Bella flinch.


    The sound weakened her stance, and she immediately clutched her forehead, fighting the wave of frustration and anger surging through her.


    "Did you steal the money for the food drive, the HOA is breathing down my back since I was in charge of-"


    "Of course." Teenage Ricky didn''t even try to hide it, taking the joint back with a nonchalant shrug, openly admitting to the very thing he was being accused of.


    "W-WHAT-"


    "I needed money for weed and besides, who cares about a couple of homeless kids." The Teenage Ricky honestly said, his blatant words making the others around him laugh even harder.


    "Dude, I thought you were f*cking with us!" One of the guys by his side, Brett, nudged his shoulder, unable to handle the continuous stream of laughter flowing from his vulgar mouth.


    "Y-You-" Bella was taken aback, stuttering the same words over and over again, her shock slowly giving way to a wicked expression as she grabbed Ricky''s wrist, her grip tight as she tried to regain control of the situation.


    "THAT''S IT, YOU''RE GOING DOWN TO THE HOA AND CONFESSING THAT-"


    "What? That my mother abuses me?" The Teenage Ricky scoffed, yanking his wrist back since his strength vastly towered over hers since he was around seventeen.


    It was at that moment that Bella froze, and with it, the teenage Ricky smiled, leaning back on the hood of the car.


    He already knew what his mother loved most, and he was about to leverage it against her to get exactly what he wanted.


    "Listen, if you wanna go down there and tell them then do it, I don''t f*cking care." The Teenage Ricky said, taking another puff of the joint then handing it to Brett.


    "But if you do, I''m just gonna go down there and put on a show about how my mother abuses me, blah blah blah," Teenage Ricky said, blowing out the smoke and watching it swirl around Bella.


    The look on her face went pale as the weight of his words hit her, and for a moment, she was at a loss for what to do.


    "I-" Bella tried to say something, but as she looked at Ricky, she realized she didn''t have any control, any sway over him.


    The realization hit her hard, and in that moment, she froze, completely unsure of how to respond or what to do next.


    "Yeah, doesn''t feel too good when you realize that no one will believe you, does it?" Teenage Ricky asked his mother, his smile bittersweet as he gazed at the woman who was supposed to love him and raise him with care.


    His subconscious watched the scene unfold, seeing Bella angrily stomp off as Ricky''s past friends congratulated him for finally standing up to his horrible mother.


    "No sh*t, Exxon and Mobil exist here too?" Ricky muttered, completely unaware of the memory playing out beside him.


    This entire time, he was surveying the gas station at the side, before finally realizing that ExxonMobil existed in his new life as well.


    What caught him off guard and made him really take a second to think about it was the way the names were smudged together.


    In the timeline he came from, Exxon and MobilOil were still two separate entities, competing in their own corners of the world.


    But here, they were fused into one, their identities blurred into a single entity, an idea he hadn''t fully grasped until now.


    Exxon and MobilOil had merged in 1999, a business decision that made all the sense in the world on paper but still felt surreal to him at this moment.


    But back in the 1930s, things were very different as the two had been fierce competitors, each vying for dominance in the oil market with the rivalry between them having been as intense as any corporate battle of its time.


    Which was why Ricky couldn''t really put it all together immediately and realized they must''ve merged or something along those lines.


    "Noted." Ricky nodded his head, turning away from the gas station and looking around for the next door as his subconscious followed him along.


    "Aren''t you the least bit curious about your past-" His subconscious tried to prone his thoughts, really digging deep until the next memory settled in and interrupted it.


    "You can''t keep doing this, Slick! You can''t keep drinking and snorting your life away!" Brett''s voice rang out as in the blink of an eye, Brett had grown up, a stark contrast to the man Ricky had become.


    Ricky, still stuck in his twenties, still haunted by his past, looked at him as if they were caught in some twisted time loop.


    Bags hung heavily under Ricky''s eyes, his face gaunt and tired, the remnants of sleepless nights and self-destruction.


    Around him lay a mountain of crushed beer cans and scattered lines of cocaine, a testament to the chaos he had let consume him.


    He was a wreck, both physically and mentally, trapped in a cycle that had no end in sight.


    "Sorry for grieving," Ricky muttered, his voice hollow as he wallowed in self-pity.


    At this point in his life, Cindy had finally cut him out of her life for good, refusing to take him back for the fourth time.


    That rejection had sent him spiraling deeper, the weight of his mistakes and wasted chances crushing him further into the abyss that he was currently swirling in right this second.


    "No, Slick, NO!" Brett yelled, covering his face at Ricky''s piss poor attempt to guilt trip him.


    "YOU CAN''T DO THESE SH*TTY THINGS AND FEEL BAD ABOUT YOURSELF LIKE THAT MAKES IT OKAY!" Brett roared, his voice sharp with frustration as he tried to shake some sense into Ricky as his hands clenched into fists, desperate to reach the friend he once knew, the one who wasn''t lost in a haze of alcohol and self-destruction.


    "Dammit Ricky, you need to be better." Brett''s voice broke as he couldn''t even muster up the strength to yell at Ricky who was barely even listening to him.


    Ricky, the one hanging off to the side, was actually paying attention to this memory while looking at Brett.


    By his twenties, he''d burned through every connection, every friendship, every person he had known in his teens, with only one left.


    Brett was the last one standing, the last person still clinging to the wreckage of what Ricky had once been but even that was slipping through his fingers, like sand he couldn''t hold on to.


    "Listen man, I know you''ve had it rough and I''m not trying to-f*ck, I''m not trying to be that guy but when is it gonna stop?" Brett was frustrated that he couldn''t find the exact words, interrupting himself before getting to the point.


    "You''re killing yourself man, you''re f*cking killing yourself." Brett''s tone was heartbroken, unable to even recognize what Ricky had become.


    "Listen, y''know the company General Electric, the one I told you about way back?" Brett sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose, feeling the weight of his frustration pressing down on him.


    "I''ve been talking to some people there, and they''re hiring. You could actually get a shot at something real, something solid. But you gotta pull yourself together, Ricky, just one last time, man, please." Brett was almost begging him at this point, wanting Ricky to desperately get back on his hind legs but the man only laughed.


    "I f*cked your sister-"


    BAM


    It was almost instantaneous, Brett''s fist moving without thought, landing squarely on Ricky''s jaw.


    The words Ricky had spat out were like the last straw, pushing Brett to act on raw frustration.


    Ricky slumped over, blood streaming from his nose as he wiped it away with a casual motion.


    He forced a smile, as if it was nothing, his eyes glazed over, but Brett could see the deeper layers of pain behind that grin.


    But Brett just stood there, his expression a mix of disbelief and disappointment, unable to muster any more anger.


    It was why his shoulders slumped, realizing that Ricky''s refusal to change had broken something inside him, inside them both.


    "Goodbye, Ricky." Brett''s voice was flat, devoid of the familiarity and warmth that once existed between them.


    He didn''t even use the nickname anymore, just his real name, as though the bond they shared had unraveled completely in that moment.


    As he turned and walked through the door, every step was heavier than the last, the sound of it echoing like the final nail in the coffin of their friendship.


    "Y''know, he became a big shot after this." Ricky spoke to his own subconscious, his gaze fixed on his past self as he reached for a half-empty bottle of beer and chugged it down as if it were water.


    "Did you both ever reconnect, ever get back in touch-"


    "No, never spoke to him again." Ricky turned to the side, trying to find the door as his own subconscious frowned at this statement.


    "But Brett was always a softy, even until I died, the guy would always post my bail but do it anonymously, as if I didn''t know in the first place." Ricky had a reminiscent chuckle, finding the next door and walking through it.


    "Couldn''t you have reached out then, maybe he wanted to reconnect?" His subconscious asked, knowing that if Ricky would''ve shown the initiative then maybe they could''ve been friends.


    "I think, in my own f*cked-up way, I thought I''d just ruin his life if I entered back into it, which I probably would''ve," Ricky said, letting out a sigh as he honestly would bet on that outcome if he even could.


    CLAP


    CLAP


    CLAP


    "O-Oh~"


    Almost immediately, they slipped into the next memory, the scene shifting as they found themselves inside a cramped plane.


    The uncomfortable faces of passengers were clearly visible, all eyes shifting nervously toward the tiny bathroom.


    It was obvious to everyone that the small space was occupied, not by one, but two people.


    "Phew~" The Past Ricky, now in his thirties, zipped up his pants with a relieved expression while a busty flight attendant eventually stumbled out behind him.


    "HAHAHAHA!" Ricky immediately laughed out loud after seeing this, watching himself waltz to his economy seats as everyone surrounded him with their uncomfortable expressions.


    Seeing an elderly woman glaring intently at him, Ricky winked at her as she let out an applaud gasp that made Ricky churn out an even louder laugh.


    "I remember this, I joined the mile high club on this day!" Ricky excitedly said, walking with himself as his subconscious had a neutral expression.


    "Dad, you''re back!" A child that shared some similarities with him, excitedly said as it was revealed to be his eldest kid, Trevor.


    "Yep and guess what your old dad just got for you." Ricky plopped into his aisle seat, rubbing Trevor''s brown hair as he gazed up at him with his expectations building.


    "What, what!" Trevor was almost hopping up and down, begging him at this point as Ricky spread out his hands.


    "I got you your own personal meeting with the pilots!" Ricky revealed, watching Trevor leap into his embrace and hug him tightly with an ecstatic expression.


    "YES, YES, YES!" Trevor repeated, his voice filled with excitement while Ricky stood by, watching with a smile, having completely forgotten about this moment.


    "Oh yeah, I forgot that Trevor wanted to be a pilot." Ricky realized, remembering how obsessed Trevor used to be with planes.


    "Dad, dad, did you know that all this plane was made by Boeing and that-" Trevor, in his excitement, shared his knowledge of the plane with his father as his subconscious turned to him.


    "What happened?" His subconscious asked, observing Ricky''s smile as he watched the scene unfold before he shrugged, and the memory gradually faded, transitioning into the next one.


    "He grew up-"


    "What is wrong with you?" Trevor, all grown up, asked Ricky, now in his forties, with a horrified expression since he came back with good news only to see something beyond his expectations.


    "Is this true-"


    "Trevor-"


    "DAMMIT DAD, IS IT F*CKING TRUE!" Trevor waved the paper in his face, showing a heartbroken expression as he threw it on the ground.


    Today was the day he learned he had passed the pilot''s exam, only to be hit with a shocking truth from his examiner, who had accidentally let it slip.


    "Ya gotta be more specific." Ricky, currently butt naked and reaching his forties, stood up with only a blanket covering his lower half as he usually slept until 4pm, and right now, it was noon.


    "Did you sleep with my examiner?" Trevor asked, tears welling in his eyes at the painful realization that stood before him.


    "Oh that, yeah I did." Ricky scratched his stubble, completely unfazed by the question as Trevor lowered his gaze.


    "Oh don''t be like that-"


    "How could you?" Trevor asked, looking up at Ricky who only let out an aggrieved sigh at this question.


    "Trevor, buddy, I did it to help you and-"


    "How?" Trevor laughed, interrupting him while looking down at the exam that showed himself to be a failure, just like his father.


    "How is setting me up for failure helping me? How is putting my future on the line, manipulating the situation, in any way helping me?" Trevor''s voice cracked from his own emotions swirling around in his young and naive heart, his fists clenched as if to physically fight off the surge of anger and disappointment.


    "Come on, Trevor, you''re overthinking this. It''s just one exam. You''d have passed anyway, with a little push, that''s all-"


    "Was it only one exam?" Trevor asked, showing a hurt expression that only worsened when Ricky looked to the side.


    "Oh my god, you bastard." Trevor let out a broken laugh, the weight of the truth sinking in as he realized not only had he failed that exam, but every single one before it, too.


    For all his passion, Trevor was not a good pilot, in fact, he was at the bottom of the barrel when it came to aptitude, barely scraping by with the bare minimum of skills.


    Ricky, seeing Trevor on the verge of breaking down in tears when he failed the first exam, unable to cope with the reality of his failure as a father, took matters into his own hands in the only way he knew how.


    But for Ricky, it wasn''t about passing or failing, it was the painful realization that Trevor would never live his dream if this contiued.


    Ricky had wanted to give him a chance at happiness, to let him feel like he could achieve something.


    But for Trevor, it became a hard truth: no matter how much he wanted it, he just wasn''t good enough.


    "Trevor, you earned this." Ricky held up his hand, trying to calm him down but Trevor only gritted his teeth.


    "BUT I DIDN''T!" Trevor shot back, his voice shaking now, the tears welling up and threatening to fall.


    "This was my dream, and even then, you took away the one thing that was supposed to be mine, my chance to prove myself, and you tainted it with your inability to keep it in your pants!" Trevor lashed out, unable to hold back any longer, his frustration boiling over as he unloaded years of resentment in one heated outburst.


    "Look, I know you think it''s a big deal, but trust me, when you''re out here, it''s all about connections, not f*cking tests. You''ll learn that one day." Ricky said, unknowingly speaking the words that would set his son on a path he would eventually follow, one that would shape his future in ways he couldn''t yet understand.


    Trevor didn''t give Ricky another word, simply walking away and never looking back.


    Even though he had passed his pilot''s exam and obtained his license, he would never use it.


    Instead, he would go on to found his own real estate firm, one built around the connections he gained by marrying into his wife''s influential family.


    The words Ricky had spoken to him that day, about connections being more important than tests, would become the foundation of his entire life, guiding his every decision and shaping the person he would eventually become.


    "That seemed a little harsh." His subconscious added, trying to motivate any sort of response to the event where he forever scarred his relationship with his son and after that, really stopped trying to make any form of connections with his kids.


    At that point in his life, after putting all that time into Trevor only to be hated and loathed in return, Ricky really stopped caring about what his kids thought of him.


    He stopped making any sort of effort to be in their lives, resigning himself to the fact that no matter how much he tried, he would always be the villain in their eyes.


    The exhaustion from constantly trying to win their approval weighed on him, and he came to terms with the idea that maybe it was better to just let them live their lives, even if it meant being a distant figure in their world.


    "Hmmmm." Ricky simply hummed at it all, watching the memory fade into obscurity as his subconscious scrunched its brows.


    "That''s all you have to say? Hmmmmmmm?" His subconscious immediately lectured, following Ricky who suddenly found himself in Time Square.


    "Oh will you shut up, I already know what you''re doing." Ricky scoffed, side-eyeing his subconscious who flinched at the sudden accusation.


    "What am I doing-"


    "You''re the part of me that''s trying to relive all the bullsh*t that I ever ended up regretting," Ricky accused his own subconscious, already understanding what it was doing after having to relive all that crap in the courtroom.


    "W-Whaaaaaaat, nooooooooo~" His subconscious poorly lied, literally being the polar opposite of Ricky who rolled his eyes at, well, himself.


    "Whatever man, but bringing me to that court was actually messed up." Ricky shook his head, clearly not all that ecstatic about having to go through that another time.


    "Okay fine, but these memories are serious, especially the courtroom, you were just a child-"


    "You think I didn''t know that? You think I wasn''t here for it all too?" Ricky turned back to his subconscious, his voice sharp, as his mind flicked back to the countless moments of regret.


    "Don''t you f*cking get it, I didn''t know anything, I didn''t know any better." Ricky squared up his own subconscious, looking it directly into his eyes.


    "I loved my mom when I was little, with all my heart, but that b*tch threw me to the f*cking wolves the first chance she got, because all she ever cared about wasn''t me, but of what people thought of her." Ricky poked the suit of the mobster apparel that his subconscious was wearing before him.


    "I didn''t run away from her like I did with my dad or Danielle, I was forced into that sh*t, and yanked into everything I didn''t deserve as a kid." Ricky finally had enough with his subconscious showing him all the stuff he didn''t care to see anymore, since he had long moved past it.


    "So don''t lecture me about this and that, because I already know I''m gonna be better than her because no kid of mine is gonna feel worthless, just like I did in that courtroom or like how made Trevor feel." Ricky turned away, walking down the street, his eyes catching sight of his past self being thrown out of a bar, a puke stain smeared across his shirt.


    These things, this past version of himself, didn''t bother him because that wasn''t who he was anymore.


    Sure, it would always be a part of him, but the guy who stumbled through life, through the streets as he was right now, always drunk and constantly chasing a high to mask how worthless he felt, that wasn''t him anymore.


    Ricky had grown enough to see that.


    "That''s not me, that''s who I was." Ricky gestured to his own subconscious, both of them watching the piss poor excuse for the man stumbling next to a fire hydrant before hurling up another mouthful of vomit.


    ''Johnson & Johnson, the family company Est. 1886.'' Right in that moment, the screen mounted above his puking past self flickered to life, flashing bold, vibrant letters that immediately caught Ricky''s attention.


    "Alright, I think that''s enough," Ricky muttered to himself and with that command, the memories dissolved, leaving nothing but a vast, empty white space.


    It was then, as he scanned the void before him, that a stark red door stood out like a sore thumb, its presence undeniable, offering a clear path forward.


    Ricky took a step toward it, then another, moving forward with a purpose that wasn''t shackled down by all his mistakes, his regret, and his past.


    "You could fix it, you know, you could save her this time." His subconscious suddenly called out, halting Ricky''s footsteps as the white space suddenly fluttered, rippling like a disturbed mirror.


    A whirlwind of memories swirled around him, vivid flashes of his biggest regret, each moment with his sister playing out like a movie in fast-forward.


    Her laughter, their shared secrets, the carefree days of youth, they all unfolded in front of him, bright and full of warmth.


    But instead of the usual bitterness that came with these recollections, Ricky felt something different.


    A soft smile tugged at his lips as he watched Danielle''s carefree laughter, her joy radiating through the memory, untouched by the years or the pain.


    At that moment, he didn''t feel the weight of loss or failure, he didn''t see all the times he hurt her.


    For the first time in a long while, he only saw her as she was, happy and alive, as if those moments hadn''t slipped through his fingers afterall.


    "Don''t you want to reconcile with that memory, go back and say you''ll stay?" His subconscious asked, the words hanging in the air like a heavy cloud.


    It stood still, frozen in place, as if it couldn''t move forward, tethered to the past, unable to leave behind the weight of what had been.


    Ricky stood there, silent, his gaze fixed on the memory of Danielle, a bittersweet mix of longing and acceptance stirring in his chest.


    He could feel the pull, the temptation to go back, to fix things, and undo all the hurt he ever caused.


    "You could save her," his subconscious repeated, this time with a weight that seemed to press against Ricky''s chest, forcing out a long drawn out laugh.


    "Ha~" Ricky laughed out bitterly, ducking his head as his deceased sister''s presence swirled around him, like a haunting reminder of everything lost.


    Her laughter echoed in his ears, the memory so vivid that it almost felt real but it wasn''t real, she wasn''t real.


    He turned around slowly, facing his subconscious, that part of him desperately clinging to the idea of undoing what was already done.


    This was the part of him that wanted to always go back, to fix every little thing he''s ever done and get it perfect, but that was the problem, he wasn''t perfect.


    No one is.


    "The scars I have, we have, they aren''t meant to be fixed." Ricky chuckled lightly, rubbing the back of his neck as he faced the reality of his own words.


    It wasn''t a bitter laugh, nor was it filled with regret.


    It was the kind of chuckle that comes when you finally understand something deep inside, when you realize that you''ve made peace with the parts of yourself that hurt the most.


    "They make us who we are." Ricky''s eyes locked with his subconscious, breathless and nearly unable to speak at the realization of its counterpart.


    "It took me a long time, maybe longer than most, to understand that we''re not meant to go back and fix them." Ricky forced a bitter smile, finally admitting the truth to himself, rather than to everyone around him.


    "Take from somebody who''s been a f*ck up the majority of his life when I say, you can''t live your past." Ricky relieved, spreading out his arms to the array of memories that flooded around them in the vicinity.


    "You gotta live your life."


    "And I don''t let my regrets define my life anymore." Ricky shrugged, neither upset nor angry with himself, but simply grown enough to speak his truth.


    "What''s wrong with letting them define you, they made you into the man you are today-" His subconscious tried to speak, tried to convince him, but Ricky only shook his head.


    "And they also made me a mess." Ricky laughed, wiping his mouth as he admitted the truth, though at the same time, it had turned him into a bumbling fuck-up.


    "But what if-"


    "What if I bought that stock? What if I didn''t leave New York? What if I was some perfect guy who always knew what to do, could recall everything at the drop of a hat, and never made mistakes?" Ricky spread his arms, speaking over his subconscious as he watched it slowly close its mouth.


    "Give me a break with your could-haves and should-haves." Ricky laughed, waving him off as he walked toward the door that had been placed just for him.


    "The only way to fix sh*t is with your hands, not through what-ifs." Ricky turned his back on all the uncertainty that had bubbled within him through both of his lives.


    "I''m not gonna sit around and wonder how I could''ve fixed things in the past. I''m gonna try to make it right, right here, right now." Ricky pointed to the ground beneath him, knowing he''d make mistakes, probably fail even more, but it was how he kept going and picked himself up that mattered most.


    "Because it''s like Lucky always says, ''If my grandmother had wheels, she''d be a trolley car.''" Ricky laughed his way toward the red door, stopping at the threshold and turning around, not to face a heartbroken subconscious, but a happy one.


    For all that Ricky was, his subconscious wasn''t.


    It was the part of him that always gnawed at his decisions, offering a second-hand opinion, one that was usually the right one.


    And right now, it felt relieved that the last aching part of him had finally moved on, no longer living in the past.


    Sure, he might take lessons from it, maybe even learn from it, but Ricky wouldn''t let the mistakes of his past drown out the present.


    This kind of realization had come to him many times before, but it was when he faced these scars and understood that instead of an open wound, he now looked down at himself, knowing he was truly healed.


    And although they might hurt on a rainy day, it doesn''t mean they''ll ever stop you from taking that single step forward.


    "Take care, loser." Ricky chuckled, walking through the red door as his subconscious smile, waving behind him as the door slowly shut on it.


    "Take care."


    Opening his eyes, surrounded by papers, he wiped his mouth and remained silent for a long time.


    Even though he had moved on, the rain still poured outside, stinging those scars and bringing him to only one conclusion.


    ''I don''t wanna be alone,'' Ricky thought, opening his portal and arriving back at his car parked in front of the mansion.


    Instead of driving through the gate, he turned the car around and headed to another house, more specifically, Profaci''s old place.


    Fiddling with his pinky ring, he looked up at the one thing he had been avoiding for a very long time and decided to finally confront it before walking up and knocking on the front door.


    "Ricky?" Maria, who had been peeking through the door, opened it wide to find Ricky standing out in the rain.


    "Can we talk?"

 Chapter 158: Chapter 153: Talking Bodies (R18)

    Chapter 158: Chapter 153: Talking Bodies (R18)


    ?


    "Can we talk?"


    Maria looked to the side, hesitating at the thought and biting her lip but eventually, still opening the door as he stepped in, shutting out the rain falling behind him.


    Ricky hadn''t spoken to Maria in a while, solely because of what happened to Profaci since instead of what you might''ve thought, he never hid the fact that he had taken Profaci''s life.


    It was undeniable, Ricky was the one responsible.


    Whispers traveled fast, but they didn''t even need to as the way he carried himself, the lack of secrecy, and most of all, the pinky ring now resting on his finger said it all.


    Profaci''s ring wasn''t just a piece of gold; it was a legacy passed from one man to another, often through blood.


    Maria might not have understood every intricate rule of the Mafia, but she understood enough to know that power didn''t shift hands without consequences.


    Her uncle had crossed a line, he had sealed his fate.


    Yet, no matter what he had done, he was still the man who had raised her.


    The one who had watched over her, protected her, given her a place in a world she barely knew how to navigate.


    But the hardest part about that exact fact was that now he was gone, killed by the very man standing in front of her, killed by the very father of her child.


    After her father died, and even Ninfa too, Profaci had been the one to stand by her side.


    He wasn''t just an uncle; he had stepped in where others had left, helping to raise Carmine and ensuring Maria never felt completely alone.


    "Have you been well?" Maria rubbed her shoulder, feeling increasingly awkward as they lingered in the hallway as her gaze settled on the floor beneath their feet while Ricky simply smiled.


    "Yeah," Ricky replied, but his eyes lingered on her, taking in every detail as he had missed the very sight of her.


    Although he had said he wanted to talk, with so much on his mind, the thick, awkward atmosphere between them made it difficult to say anything at all.


    The words he had planned to say scattered, leaving him standing there, momentarily blanking.


    "Do you need anything like money or-" Ricky honestly said the first thing that came to him, literally offering a wad of money only for Maria to shake her head since she had been left all of Profaci''s wealth.


    "No, w-we are managing," Maria interrupted, her voice unsteady and Ricky looked to the side while rubbing the back of his neck, exhaling a heavy sigh before turning his gaze back to her as he knew he just had to be honest with her.


    "Listen, I don''t want it to be like this." Ricky said with a heavy heart, looking at Maria who trembled slightly but refused to even look at him.


    "But I did what I had to do and I even had his blessing," Ricky said, trying to justify the very act of killing the only father figure she''d ever known.


    Even if Profaci had betrayed Ricky, even if he had become a vile man in the eyes of others, to Maria, he was still her father.


    It didn''t matter that he wasn''t her biological father; the title was hers to give, and it was him who had raised her.


    Her memories of her own father were fragmented, hazy images that never felt real, like dreams she couldn''t quite grasp.


    Profaci was the one who had filled the void, the one who had steadied her when the world spun too fast.


    He had been her protector, her teacher, her constant, more than just an uncle, more than blood ever could define.


    She owed him everything.


    The problem was, she wanted to be mad at Ricky, she wanted to feel that boiling rage, to let it consume her.


    But no matter how hard she tried, she just couldn''t bring herself to hate him, to hate the only man she ever loved.


    "I-It doesn''t make the pain go away just because you say it''s fine," Maria sniffled, wiping her eyes as the mere thought of her uncle made her start to tear up.


    Ricky stood there, his own emotions tight, but he shook his head, unable to find the right thing to say.


    "I''m sorry about what happened, but I''m not sorry about what I did," Ricky said, his voice steady, though tinged with sincerity.


    He knew it might hurt her more, but he couldn''t lie.


    He regretted how it had affected her, how much pain it had caused, but he didn''t regret the choices he had made since he did what he had to do.


    There''s no changing the past, going back and fixing all the things you wanted to do differently, and Ricky knew this fact which is why he was trying to make it right, right here, right now.


    Maria turned away, knowing that if she looked at him, she would give in, his hands would slip around her from behind.


    He rested his head on her shoulder, hugging her from behind, as that familiar touch wrapped around her, pulling her in.


    "Maria, I love you~" Ricky whispered sensually, his breath warm against her skin. Maria''s body trembled as he pressed a soft kiss to the back of her neck, sending a shiver through her.


    "And I don''t want to lose you, not again-" Ricky''s whisper lingered, his voice heavy with emotion.


    Maria''s body trembled in his embrace, her teary eyes lifting to meet him, the vulnerability in her gaze undeniable.


    Without hesitation, Maria yanked at his collar, pulling him in as she captured his lips as all the passion she had been holding back surged forward, pouring into the kiss.


    Ricky, completely taken aback, stood frozen, his eyes wide open and slowly, it dawned on him, though they were about to talk, but it wouldn''t be through words.


    Closing his eyes, his hands slinked down her back before grabbing the back of her thighs and


    pulling her up.


    Without missing a beat, Maria instinctively wrapped her legs around his waist, her arms draping over his shoulders as her fingers tangled in his slicked-back hair.


    Their bodies moved in sync, brushing against each other as Ricky started ascending the stairs, their tongues wrapped in a heated deadlock.


    The passion between them was undeniable, rooted in the budding memories of a first love as their connection was unlike any other.


    Ricky was Maria''s first love, and Maria was Ricky''s first true relationship in this new life of


    his.


    The spark between them was undeniable, a flame that would never fade, even on the rainiest of days. Somehow, Ricky found himself in Maria''s old bedroom, the same one where he''d often sneak in, the very room where he had promised to return for her.


    This moment, with their passion-fueled kiss slowly breaking, was him keeping that promise.


    It was why Maria gently opened her eyes, her fingers caressing his cheek with a longing touch. No words were needed as Ricky leaned into her touch, feeling the warmth that lingered in the delicate grooves of her smooth hands.


    Resting her forehead against his, Maria closed her eyes, a pained expression crossing her face.


    Deep down, she knew she could never hate Ricky.


    For all that he was, she loved him, truly loved him.


    Even after he had killed Profaci, after everything he did or could do, her heart could bear no


    feeling but love for him.


    Ricky tilted his head up, capturing her soft lips once more, his hands slowly trailing down her body, undoing the bindings of her clothes that had held this beautiful masterpiece captive. Gently laying her on the bed, Maria''s eyes fluttered open as Ricky removed his shirt and unbuckled his belt, standing before her as she lay exposed.


    Feeling a tinge of loneliness in the absence of his touch, she reached out and Ricky, sensing her need, slowly lowered himself into her embrace as she wrapped her arms around him. "Ah~" Maria moaned, her body trembling as Ricky used Wet to The Touch as he didn''t want to become absorbed in foreplay but rather, he wanted to be completely engrossed in Maria.


    Leaning down, his eyes met hers as they both slowly closed, their lips moving toward each other and Ricky positioned himself before Maria, who welcomed him and seemingly pulled him towards her as he acquiesced, pushing forward.


    Maria squealed within the locked lips of Ricky, feeling his cock slowly slither forward into her


    being.


    With each passing second, he pressed deeper, the final thrust sinking into her with a force that made Maria shiver, her body tensing involuntarily at the rawness of it all.


    She felt everything, the fullness of him, stretching her completely as he had so many years


    ago, but this time, it was different.


    Instead of the agonizing sensation of her insides being torn apart, the pain that had once burdened their encounter, she felt only pleasure, a sharp, burning pleasure that flooded her


    senses.


    His cock seemed to lock into place, a perfect fit, as though he''d never left, picking up exactly


    where they had left off.


    It completely caught her off guard, and Ricky seemed to sense it immediately as he broke the kiss, his fingers gently stroking her cheek, his touch soft yet knowing.


    Pressed down onto her being, she squirmed under him, her supple petite body wiggling all that it could as her teary eyes fluttered open, overwhelmed by the engulfing sensation blossoming deep within her.


    "Ah~" Maria moaned softly, the subtle sound a silent assurance, giving Ricky the unspoken permission he needed as he leaned back down toward her.


    Pressing his lips onto her soft, pale skin, he brought back color as the hickey''s started forming


    along with the subtle pace of his hips.


    "H-Ha-AH~" Maria gasped, struggling to catch her breath as he slowly pulled away, but the air was stolen from her again as he thrust back into her, burying himself deeper in one fluid


    motion.


    The bed creaked faintly, the grinding sound of the wooden frame scraping against the wall eerily similar to Maria''s nails, digging into his back as she clung to him and instead of audible


    gasps, her fingers left a trail of strain across his skin.


    "Ah~" Maria moaned out, her hazy eyes gazing at the ceiling with Ricky completely


    engulpshing every asset of her being.


    From within, her insides pulsed with each thrust, his cock relentlessly stirring, stretching her,


    as if splitting her in two before pulling back and starting again.


    All the way to her body which instinctively was wrapped tightly, almost bound to Ricky,


    clinging to his hold, this idea, that if he even eased up a bit that she might slip away.


    But Maria wasn''t going anywhere and it was then that she nestled her head into the crook of his neck, and it was because of this action that the tension in his muscles finally eased.


    His hand slowly gripped the bed frame above their tangled bodies, tightening around it as if the force might shatter something between them.


    He wanted something to anchor him, something to replace the need to absolutely punish the


    delicate creature below him.


    Though every instinct urged him to lose control, to unleash the full force of his desire and drown in the sensation that enveloped his cock, he held back, always for Maria.


    It was a control he barely had, one that he maintained, because of her. When he thrusted in and heard that soft, supple moan grace his ears from the sensual lips of


    Maria, he squeezed the bed frame.


    When his cock was submerged in that warm, tender feeling of her pussy that wrapped around him so lovingly, giving in completely to him, he squeezed the bed frame.


    And when she signaled to him that she would always be his, holding onto him tightly while


    showing that she would always be by his side, he just broke the bed frame.


    CRACK


    Easily crushing it with his superhuman strength, Ricky felt the wooden frame utterly crack


    and splinter under his mere grip.


    Maria couldn''t help but chuckle softly, watching Ricky as he tried to lose himself in the


    softness of her skin.


    His hands roamed over her delicate form, and she gently cupped his cheeks.


    Pulling him up to meet her warm gaze, she just smiled, seemingly telling him that she would


    be okay before bringing him into a kiss.


    The veins of Ricky''s neck pulsed, his hand that had once held the shattered bed frame now


    cascading all the way down to her thigh before he squeezed.


    Feeling her skin mold under his grip, he thrusted his hips forward and collided it all down into


    her waist.


    The act left her breathless, reeling as her tongue that was swirling around Ricky''s mouth


    immediately froze as if a bolt of lightning struck through her.


    The pleasure surged through her body with a devastating intensity, one that sought to


    rearrange the entire structure of her insides.


    Her folds, wrapped around his thick member, salivated sweet juices as they dripped down into


    slight streams, overflowing and seeping down into the crevasse of her ass which made her instinctively pucker.


    "AH~" Maria couldn''t hold back anymore, pulling away from the kiss to let out all she was


    feeling. Pulling away only for Ricky to chase her by leaning in, holding her down in every way, shape,


    or manner while thrusting into her pussy once more.


    Bam


    The shattered bed frame scraped against the wall, leaving marks like Ricky''s cock that drilled


    into her being.


    Encompassing every part of her walls, feeling the slight twitching and gooey warmth that locked down tightly on his veiny cock that only hungered for more.


    Ricky wanted to bury himself in the embrace of someone who truly cared about him, someone


    who he didn''t instinctively want to throw away or take for granted, and just stay in this moment for as long as he could.


    At a certain point, Ricky had grown exhausted and repulsed at the act of just throwing away a


    woman''s sincerity.


    Using them for all they had then throwing them to the curb once he got bored or another attraction caught his short attention span.


    He might have been a horndog, someone who could never be satisfied with just one woman or


    one encounter.


    But despite all that, something had changed and he couldn''t bring himself to disregard


    someone who truly cared about him, not anymore.


    He couldn''t disregard Maria.


    It was as if when he brought down his hips, hearing that subtle sound in which their skin


    slapped against each other, the love juices her body excitedly spewed out at his touch, that he


    tried to show her how much she meant to him.


    BAM


    "Ah~"


    How much he truly carried for her.


    BAM


    "Ah!"


    And how he was never going to let her go.


    BAM


    "AH!" Maria, feeling everything in which Ricky wanted to say, responded with a flush of her


    own emotions that spewed out the engulfed ends of his cock.


    Feeling her insides completely churn, flush out this intoxicating pleasure that bent to the


    complete whims of Ricky''s touch.


    Her eyes fluttered closed, exhaustion slowly seeping in, before they opened again to the sight


    of the cursed bed frame looming above them.


    Now instead of on her back, she was held up not by her knees but by Ricky, impaled on his


    cock, her arms dangling at her sides while her head laid back against his shoulder, Maria was


    completely at his mercy.


    Thwap


    The faint sound registered in Maria''s ear, unaware of her own folds squirting out the sloppy


    sound of taking the entirety of his cock.


    Only once it slid all the way into her cave, unconsciously gripping down and feeling his touch seep into the farthest reaches of her mind, did that pleasure awaken once more. "AH~" Maria eyes rolled back, her body limply trying to fall forward only for Ricky''s hand to slither across her body, cupping her perky little breasts and chaining her down in place.


    His head rested on her shoulder, eyes closed and completely lost in the loving tightness that


    constantly surrounded his cock.


    Exploring every aspect of her love, molding it, rearranging it, expanding upon it, and all around entrenched within it, Ricky needed all of her.


    In that moment, his greed took over, a burning desire for not just her body, but her heart,


    leaving no room for anyone else, not even their kid or future ones.


    His teeth gritted, utterly pulverizing her pelvis with this intent as there was nothing he


    wanted more than to fill her completely with his essence.


    Her small, perky ass jiggled at every ravaging impact slammed into it by his hips, the force


    jarring out a slight clap that immediately went interrupted by the next thrust.


    It was overwhelming, it was almost too much, and Maria felt the brunt of it not only collide


    into her body, but her mind.


    It was as if Ricky''s cock completely wiped away any thoughts that weren''t filled with it, with


    this pleasure, and it was numbing in all its entirety.


    There was only Ricky and any aspects that hinted at anything else were ruthlessly pounded


    away with the thrusts unleashed upon her insides.


    Her mouth panting like some sort of dog, huffing out slop filled breaths, drooled from the


    ends of her sultry mouth.


    Maria wanted to moan, wanting to release this feeling to the world beyond, but just when she thought her words would bear fruit, his fingers suddenly pinched her small tongue. Swirling around it and bending it to her will, just like all her insides were being split apart,


    played with by the whims of his cock, his fingers led her little tongue into a marionette dance that was completely controlled by him.


    BAM


    BAM


    BAM


    The only thing left to give voice to Maria''s cries was the bedframe, groaning under the


    pressure as it seemed to plead for Ricky to stop, yet he only drove deeper. Punishing it, ruining it, breaking it, the bedframe was being utterly ripped apart like the poor


    Maria except one was malleable and the other was a piece of furniture.


    Both were used by Ricky with the only one to be cherished being the one that laid within his


    hands.


    Splinters of wood shed onto the ground like tears, scraping the walls as if it would give a reprieve only for the intensity to build.


    Slamming harder, faster, Ricky movements tunneled into Maria with a ferocity that left the


    only part of her body coherent being the skin, the slick wet skin that sweat out its cries at the manhandling inflicted upon it. All while her pussy convulsed, her folds spraying out for joy under the almost brutal treatment, sadistically relishing in the pleasure ruthlessly pounded into the very fabric of her


    being.


    With it all cultivating in the strain bellowing with his meaty balls, completely drenched in the essence of Maria''s squirting as they held the very thing that would give way to her next child.


    His cock twitched madly, signaling that it was about to explode while her insides expanded


    fully, seemingly welcoming the eruption.


    Then, with a final thrust, Ricky slammed down his cock into Maria, burying himself completely with an unrivaled force that was only matched by his own actions of yanking her


    down onto his cock.


    The result would only be described by Maria as fireworks, pure bliss that erupted all inside her


    as the budding warmth flashed onto her face and exploded into a thoughtful smile. Her eyes hazy, lost in the feeling of his hot cum, spewing out a torrent of thick, milky white


    liquid that pooled into her already used womb.


    Giving it a renewed purpose with the promise of functionality, Maria was once again


    introduced to the beautiful art of baby making and this time, she welcomed it wholeheartedly. Her stomach, once empty, now pulsed with a sense of fullness that reached deep into her mind, overwhelming her with an indescribable satisfaction, complete, unshakable, and the exact warmth she had felt all those years before, escape this time, it was here to stay. Then, as if surrendering to gravity, her body collapsed onto the soft cotton sheets, her breaths


    coming in heavy, huffing gasps that filled the air.


    Her eyes barely flickered to the side, as though letting go of everything that wasn''t the


    warmth now completely filling her.


    It felt as though she were trapped in a tube, her body enveloped by warmth that consumed her


    entirely, a warmth that only faded once it had been drained.


    Only then did she feel the cold creeping in, the warmth slipping away, leaving room for the


    clarity of what was about to unfold.


    Acting as the marionette from before, her body was controlled like a puppet, rearranging into


    a specific position at the strings from Ricky''s hands.


    Her hands gripped the sides of her head, instinctively clutching the sheets beneath her as her breath came in ragged gasps, feeling his hand press down on the bed beside her. He molded her body like clay, pushing her back down into a gentle arc that lifted her ass into


    the air, rising it slowly to its peak before his hand grazed over the curve, rubbing her softly.


    As if appreciating the supple curvature, admiring it for the beautiful piece of art it was before


    they were slowly spread apart.


    Sandwiching his own cock beneath the perky cheeks, Ricky started caressing her puckered ass


    while lubing up the entrance with their own little love tonic concoction of juices with an


    intent gaze. Ricky didn''t know why but he felt very bothered that there was a part of her that hadn''t been touched by him, tainted with his being, and forever altered to his very whims. Usually he would only do anal for the fun of it, the very thrill of the tightness that almost


    strangled his cock in a different type of way than a pussy would. Perhaps it was because this region of her body wasn''t meant to be filled with pleasure, or


    maybe it was precisely because it held a certain power to evoke it, a place that made someone feel something deeper made Ricky always have this magnetic pull towards it. Now, it felt as though she wasn''t truly his until that unexplored region had fully surrendered


    to him, engulfed by him, molded entirely by him, that made his greediness want it all the


    more.


    When he opened up his IP shop, a tool he rarely ever used, he scanned through the items he usually dismissed as mere skills.


    But then, his gaze landed on something that was always there, something he had never quite


    paid attention to before.


    With all his conquests, completed rewards, and almost hoard-like tendencies, he had


    managed to scrape together 390,000 IP points.


    Ricky had been saving his points for an expensive skill he hoped would eventually appear with


    each refresh, but right now, he couldn''t care less about that. In the heat of the moment, he impulsively splurged, and without a second thought, a pink


    bottle materialized in his hand as he carelessly bought the item.


    Lust Lube: 15,000 IP


    Description: A silky, tingling substance that enhances sensations and heightens pleasure. It''s


    known to make every touch feel more intense, every movement more stimulating. Designed


    for those who crave deeper connection and more satisfying experiences. The bottle was crushed within his grasp in the next second, squirting a pink, gooey liquid


    onto his palm while effortlessly throwing the bottle away without breaking his gaze on that


    puckering ass of hers. Gently pressing his thumb on the corners of her asshole, he pulled it apart gently and saw the


    slight pink that hid under the covers of its puckered form.


    It was then that his fingers, coated in that pink lube, slowly slipped between the puckered


    exterior into the tight, pink interior.


    "Arghhhs~" Maria, completely out of it, had her subconscious perk up while slobbering out a


    moan.


    Ricky''s fingers slowly dug into her ass, lubricating the small opening until it was completely


    covered in that gooey, pink liquid until they finally seeped deeper. "Ha-ahhhhh~" Maria tried to moan, only to interrupt herself with an even larger one that


    moaned out of her like some sort of dog in heat.


    As if unable to cope any longer, her teeth suddenly gnashed onto the expensive egyptian


    cotton sheets beneath her as if it would help in some way, shape or form. It started with one, lonely finger until its friends slowly started joining in, digging into her


    ass and mining away at any uncertainty she might''ve had about anal as she suddenly felt


    tingly.


    It was as if little thorns were burying themselves into her ass, planting a numbness that slowly started to blossom into a comfortable pleasure that left Maria''s mind spinning.


    Only after a while, of Maria panting out muffled moans did Ricky finally line up his cock at the


    gateway of her ass.


    His hands, still covered in some remnants of lube, dug into her perky ass and spread it wide before his tip slowly nestled at her asshole.


    As if blushing at the subtle kiss of his tip, Maria''s asshole once again puckered before its


    lubed up form suddenly expanded.


    Seeping into her ass, she all but ripped at his efforts, but Maria felt nothing as that planted


    numbness had dulled everything.


    She felt nothing, completely unaware of the destructive tearing that would have made it feel


    like she was being torn apart at the seams. The only thing she felt was that single, feeling of pleasure that bloomed fiercely as it


    expanded all throughout her ass with every inch of his cock that she took in. It was intoxicating for Ricky, the pure satisfaction of the pleasure combined with the relief


    that no facet of her being was left untouched by him.


    Closing his eyes, his head gazed up while burying himself deeper into this self-centered


    satisfaction while Maria wailed out muffled grunts.


    It was as if every barrier that was set in place to structure Maria''s ass was being completely


    torn down, eviscerated by the sheer girth and length of his cock. Ricky was actively destroying her being, shaping it in his image and likeness while Maria


    suffered under the weight of their lust.


    It was all but crippling for Maria, feeling helpless as the sheer pleasure buried her deeper into


    the bed as he sunk deeper into her ass.


    Maria tried to push herself away, the pleasure becoming too much as she lowered her molded


    ass down in an effort to escape this burdening lust, only for Ricky to chase down after her.


    Clap


    Her hips smacked against her perky ass, signaling the completion of stuffing her like some


    sort of thanksgiving turkey.


    With one slight jerk, Ricky had fully made Maria''s ass his own, impla all that he was


    inside of her while relishing in this very fact and seeking to remember it always. This blissfulness all came at the mercy of Maria, the one who was left utterly broken under the


    act and reeling in from everything it entailed.


    Needless to say, it was all inducing, feeling his cock stuff her ass with a ferociousness that left


    no part free from his grasp.


    Maria had promised Ricky everything and it had completely bite her in the ass, feeling it all


    but weigh down on her psyche, right at this moment.


    Her folds, pooling out the steady stream of his thick, impregnating cum suddenly squirted


    out helping her nectar.


    Immediately cumming as her G-spot squealed out for mercy under his unabashedly


    occupancy of her being.


    Half her face was buried within the sheets out of her own violation, her eyes sporadically


    gazing forward and then jerking upwards at every iteration of her own climaxes that


    seemingly churned out one after another.


    This only made possible under Ricky''s hands that were constantly amplifying this feeling as they still dug into both her perky, little asshecks as if chaining him down to this moment. Then, as if finally coming to terms with this vice-grip of a hold that left his cock feeling all


    but secured, he finally started.


    Bringing his cock up, the bed frame that thought its punishment had ended once again bore


    witness to the horror of his veiny cock, slick with a pink liquid, unsheathing itself from the


    depths of Maria''s ass before ultimately pounding back in.


    Squelch


    Bam


    Her ass made a sickening, wet sound that stemmed solely from the lubrication and tightness


    of her hole once his cock fully entrenched itself back into her being. The bed frame weeped in horror, grading along the walls like his cock inside her ass, wholly


    occupying the room with its feeling as the punishment continued. Maria, feeling his cock once again slam into her virgin hole, didn''t cry or scream in pain but


    had her brain ultimately shut off.


    Then, winding up his hips again, Ricky gritted his teeth at this maddening tightness before slamming his cock back into her ass as if punishing it for not bending to his size already. His tip delved into this lubricated hole, shooting through the tightness that tried to squeeze


    down on him, to try and stop him, only for their efforts to be in vain as it arrived at a certain


    spot.


    Delving into it, his tip slammed right into her G-Spot as if it was mashing a button, an on


    switch, that seemingly restarted Maria''s mind with the pure, unbridled feeling of pleasure.


    Squelch


    Bam


    The muffled sound of Maria''s moan was not only cut off by the messy, body altering sound of


    her asshole reforming under his cock, but the crying of the bed frame.


    Squelch


    Bam


    Squelch


    Bam


    Squelch


    Bam


    Over and over again, that horrid sloppiness rang out in tandem with the suffering of the bed


    frame, all at the behest of Maria''s own body, actively malfunctioning from the operating


    poundings.


    Her mind continuously turned off and on whenever his cock rammed into her G-Spot, hitting


    the factory reset each and every time, leaving Maria reeling in from the entire mess that was


    being created not only in her mind, but her ass.


    Strands of hair clung to her face, damp with sweat, framing the haggard expression of a


    woman undone, made into a complete mess.


    Maria''s only solace was the Egyptian cotton sheets beneath her, now utterly stained with the consequences of surrendering to a man who took full, unrelenting reign over her body. Drenched in the essence of her unraveling sanity, Maria clung to the only lifeline left, the relentless rhythm of his cock slamming into her ass, each thrust blasting waves of pleasure through her body, forcing her release to spill in shuddering bursts of nectar.


    If anything, Maria was utterly dehydrated, her body betraying her like a malfunctioning sprinkler, helplessly spewing out pleas for mercy from a hole that, for once, wasn''t being


    ruthlessly pulverized by Ricky.


    SQUELCH


    BAM


    SQUELCH


    BAM


    SQUELCH


    BAM


    The bed frame was all but being reduced to sawdust, teetering on the brink of destruction


    with every vicious thrust hammering into Maria with merciless intent. Ricky chased his own selfish pleasure, mounting higher with every relentless stroke, while the helpless, wonderful, and so unbearably sweet Maria was left trembling beneath him, reduced


    to nothing more than a quivering, submissive bundle of flesh molded entirely to his will.


    It wasn''t entirely strange to say that after this encounter, Maria would forever be bound to


    Ricky''s touch, her own hands incapable of recreating the heights he had driven her to. He had molded her body to a new standard, one that only he could ever satisfy, leaving her ruined for anything less.


    He had quite literally reshaped the very fabric of her body, reducing it to a quivering, dripping


    mess that eagerly spewed out her own nectar with every relentless thrust. Each slam against her G-spot seared a pleasure so intense it burned itself into the depths of


    her mind, forcing her retinas skyward as the blinding sensation overtook her completely. Nothing could ever replicate the mounting sensation that seared into her, only to gush out in waves that left her trembling, spent, and irrevocably claimed.


    Ricky, as if having perfect timing, felt all his effort culminate into the very next thrust as he wound up the entire length of his cock, then impaled it all back into Maria, spin roasting her


    on his rod as it left her reeling from the meat spewing out its juices. Ricky, with impeccable timing, felt the build-up of his mounting effort come to a head in the


    next thrust.


    Impaling her with everything that she was and driving it inside Maria, completely piercing through every single facet of her meaty insides, forcing out the supple juices of its interior. Maria writhed beneath him, feeling that all powerful thrust all but ruined everything that had existed before and filled her mind with a pleasure that consumed the entirety of her being. Then, as if outdoing himself, Ricky balls squeezed and released a powerful wave of warmth


    that flooded her, an overwhelming surge that filled her completely with a heat unlike


    anything she''d felt before.


    Her ass flooding and filling to its brim with his milky, thick cum with her body all but pinned


    under him, having to take it all.


    CRACK


    BAM


    The bed frame, long subjected to Ricky''s relentless force, finally buckled under the weight of


    withstand another moment.


    his intensity, shattering completely as it couldn''t Crumbling under it all and collapsing in on itself as Ricky wrapped his arms around Maria to


    shield the limp girl from any harm that didn''t come from stuffing her full of his cum.


    After a while of relishing in the feeling of filling her ass completely with his essence, Ricky let


    out a relieved breath and slowly pulled his cock out of its submerged sheathe.


    POP


    The moment he pulled out, a sharp, audible pop echoed in the air, the sound lingering before


    ass.


    revealing the cream-filled, gaping hole of her Stretched and irreversibly altered, Ricky plopped down next to the limp Maria who was only


    breathless at this point.


    Knowing he probably went too far, he brought her tired body into her arms and wrapped her


    in a sincerity that assured her that it was completely over.


    Then and only then, did Maria let out a relieved sigh, resting her head on his arm and treating


    it like a pillow, all while he cuddled up behind her while wrapping her in a blanket of


    reassurance.


    "I missed you~" Maria longingly whispered, finally uttering words that weren''t already


    spoken by the actions of their bodies as Ricky smiled and snuggled up behind her neck.


    "I missed you too."


    DING

 Chapter 159 - 154: Investors Meeting

    Chapter  159 - 154: Investors Meeting


    Meanwhile in Otherworld,


    Within this realm, nudged between the dimensions of one horrid and one of its birth, stood Camelot in all its glory.


    It was a city of legend, suspended between the fractured echoes of creation, one foot in the realm of men, the other in the tapestry of Otherworld''s boundless magic. Castles spread all across with spires that reached out towards the sky like the hands of olds gods, their stone seemingly being kissed by a that had never known the cruelty of time. But beneath them, the streets wove through the city like golden veins, carrying the lifeblood of the kingdom, it''s people.


    Knights clad in polished silver, scholars draped in robes of starlit blue, and wandering bards whose songs turned the air itself into whispered poetry.


    Here, the wind carried voices long past as if they had not changed for millenia, the laughter of heroes who had rotted in the great halls and the murmurs of sages who had peered too far into the weaves of fate. However, at the heart of it all, the great castle stood, the very one that held the deceased and once fabled King Arthur.


    A cart, draped by a delicately woven blanket seemingly hid the contents beneath it along with any odor one would give off.


    Unlike the people, who looked to be untainted by the aspect of fear, suffering, and misery, these golden knights stood out like sore thumbs.


    They walked through this city, this kingdom with a vastly different aura from these citizens who wore faces that weren''t burdened by the true reality of the world and instead, the living order within these walls.


    Even the knights who passed them couldn''t relate to their own brothers-in-arms, clad in gleaming silver armor without a single scratch, neither on their pristine skin nor their polished plate mail, while they themselves bore the marks of battle, their bodies and armor worn and tattered.


    This was the Ordo Draconum, the old noble subdivision that used to be dedicated to guiding future rulers in the defense of their realms under the banner of God. However, this society, the same one steeped in ancient traditions and secrets, where principles of honor and duty intertwined with strategies of warfare, split apart from the church not to form their own banner, but to gather under another.


    It was why the wagon arrived at the main castle within the great land of Camelot, its wheels grinding against the polished stone of the courtyard, leaving behind a faint trail of dust in an otherwise immaculate realm.


    "State your purpose." The guard held firm, holding the spear with such soft hands that had never been torn by the art of the very weapon he was holding.


    "I am here to maintain what must never be tainted." One of the men said, peering his eyes from under the rob as the man looked at him weirdly but nodded.


    "Uh, very well, papers?" The guard continued, feeling incredibly uncomfortable amidst the man with a husky voice along with his three comrades.


    However the man didn''t argue nor show any emotion at the disgust in the guard''s eye, simply holding out the papers with a signia that made the guard freeze in place.


    "CLEAR THE PATH, OPEN THE GATES!" The guard immediately shouted, turning back and almost demanding his comrades in charge of the gate adhere to his words.


    The guard, visibly tense, bowed deeply, his head dipping into a full ninety-degree angle, while the man before him wordlessly withdrew his papers, tucking them back into the folds of his tattered cloak, concealing the battered armor beneath.


    As he stepped forward, the wagon creaked through the gates, his three comrades following close behind. Only when the doors sealed shut behind them did he finally exhale, releasing the breath he hadn''t realized he was holding.


    "Cassian, what is the matter?" His fellow guard stepped forward, eyeing him curiously as he leaned in as Cassian pulled out his fair maiden''s handkerchief, dabbing the sweat from his forehead. "Those men bear the insignia of the great wizard Merlyn," Cassian whispered breathlessly, the weight of his words sinking in. To be associated with the most revered figure in the kingdom, let alone to bear his mark, was an honor beyond measure.


    "By the grace of Arthur, such majesty," the guard murmured, his eyes widening in awe as he jerked his head back, only to find the gates now closed before him. A frown crossed his face as he strained for another glimpse of the four figures escorting the wagon, curiosity gnawing at him.


    Creak


    Beyond that very gate, the wagon creaked as the cloak that veiled not just its contents from the outside world, but the outside world from its contents, shifted slightly.


    A limp arm, small and delicate, slipped lifelessly through the opening as one of the escorts swiftly pulled the cloak back over it, his eyes darting around as he ensured no one had seen.


    "It is fine, no one saw, but be more careful since you know how the great wizard gets when dirty things pop up in Camelot," one of the men foretold, warning not only his comrade but the others as they nodded in silent agreement.


    The wagon followed the winding path toward the magnificent castle, its towering form spiraling into the sky, with a single spire reaching as if to touch the very stars, the heavens themselves.


    Atop that lone spire resided the most powerful and ruling figure of this great land, a being who had lingered within the realm of myth for as long as the otherworld had endured, Merlyn.


    The greatest wizard to ever grace mankind sat with a passive expression, scribbling onto a scroll with a single quill.


    Knock


    Countless other scrolls adorned not only the desk before him but also the towering bookshelves surrounding him, each filled to the brim with his particular fields of study.


    Knock


    Knock


    Knock


    "Come in," Merlyn said tentatively, his eyes remaining fixed on his scroll as the four stepped inside, beholding the most powerful man they had ever known, masquerading as nothing more than a mere old man.


    "Our report on the annihilation of the Caribbean coven," the man announced, bowing as he extended a tightly wrapped scroll as Merlyn slowly halted his scribbling.


    "The materials?" Merlyn asked, his voice calm yet firm, still not looking up, as though any distraction would cause him to lose his train of thought as the four below him bowed even deeper, their respect palpable in the silence that followed.


    "Perfectly intact, ready for your guiding hand." They all replied in unison, their words synchronized as if rehearsed while Merlyn slowly nodded, his expression still unreadable as he absorbed their words.


    "Put it here," Merlyn instructed, gesturing with his other hand while continuing to write something down, his focus unwavering from the task at hand.


    The man extended his hand, placing the scroll delicately on the desk before stepping back a few paces as a heavy silence settled around them, filling the room with an almost oppressive stillness.


    The four never quite enjoyed being in Merlyn''s space, not because of his presence, but because of the objects he surrounded himself with. "Why are you still standing in place?" Merlyn asked calmly, unrolling the scroll after using up the last bit of space. The members of the order exchanged wary glances, their unspoken understanding clear before they all nodded in unison.


    "We have found traces of Morgana."


    It was these six words that finally prompted Merlyn to raise his weathered gaze, his eyes narrowing as he focused on the four men before him.


    "Where and in what instance is she?" Merlyn inquired, his voice steady but laced with an unmistakable tension. His questions were sharp, demanding answers not just about her whereabouts, but the situation in which she had put herself in as the men all ducked their heads, acknowledging the gravity of his words.


    "A vessel, within the territory of Agatha''s coven," the man promptly informed Merlyn, the words falling from his lips as soon as the old man''s question had ended.


    "Interesting, so she has aligned with the very coven you repeatedly fail to obtain for me," Merlyn remarked, his words laced with a subtle jab as the men didn''t miss the insinuation, and they all ducked their heads, their hands tightening into fists. Agatha''s coven was the only one they had ever failed to capture, and the weight of that failure was a constant, bitter reminder.


    "Anything else?" Merlyn asked, his tone surprisingly unbothered by the mention of Morgana, a faint smile playing at the corner of his lips.


    "Y-Yes, one more thing," the man stammered, looking around at his comrades for support as they gave him subtle nods, urging him to continue.


    "Morgana was said to have not shown interest in allying with Agatha''s coven, but rather with the man under whom her coven is protected," the man informed Merlyn, noticing the shift in the old man''s demeanor as his gaze finally lifted once more, an unmistakable spark of interest flickering in his eyes.


    "And this man is?" Merlyn gestured, motioning for him to continue, his impatience thinly veiled as the man took a steadying breath, gathering his strength to finish.


    "Ricky Luciano, the Black Knight and slayer of Dracula," the man said, delivering the name not with apprehension, but with a touch of intrigue. Merlyn didn''t flinch in displeasure but leaned in slightly, clearly intrigued.


    "Oh?" Merlyn responded, his voice laced with amusement, having heard whispers of the name through his own sources in the outside world.


    "And what of his threat analysis?" Merlyn asked, his tone casual, as if testing the waters, but the man hesitated as the silence stretched for a moment, his uncertainty hanging in the air.


    "We think, though we''re not sure, as our source is unreliable, but they''ve informed us of a possible link to the realm of the Nethergods residing within New York, and they assume it''s connected to Ricky Luciano." The man''s voice faltered, uncertainty heavy in his words as he was merely repeating what he''d heard from his source, someone who had witnessed Ricky''s powers just once before.


    "So it is a possibility that he is a viable threat," the man continued, though his explanation of what constituted a threat was interrupted by a third person stepping forward. Merlyn, deep in thought, tapped his finger lightly on the desk, contemplating the information for a moment.


    "Observe him, do not interfere, and stay at a measured distance until a full psychological and physical assessment can be made of his being." Merlyn ordered, his voice unwavering as the men nodded in unison, acknowledging the command.


    "And if he''s worthy, we''ll continue from there." Merlyn added, his gaze already returning to the scroll in front of him. The four men, understanding the gravity of his words, turned and began to leave, the door creaking softly behind them as they departed.


    "Before you go, next time, don''t dirty the residing kingdom with your mistakes," Merlyn''s voice hummed from behind them, sending a chill down their spines. The words hit them like a tide, sweat breaking out across their backs as the full weight of his meaning sank in.


    "I see everything within Camelot, everything," Merlyn reverberated, his voice steady and foreboding, seemingly drilling the words into their very skulls. The men, unable to shake the sense of dread, bolted for the door, their steps hurried and panicked.


    Merlyn shook his head, a quiet sigh escaping his lips as he returned to his work, the silence of the room settling once more.


    It was then that Merlyn''s eyes drifted towards a crystal ball, always attuned to the real-time image of a man encased in a glass coffin. He was unlike any other man, the epitome of perfection.


    His features were chiseled with an almost divine precision, every line and curve of his face crafted as if by the gods themselves. His skin, pale and flawless, almost seemed to glow in the soft light of the crystal ball, untouched by age or decay. Golden hair cascaded across his body, each strand woven with a silkiness that made it look more like spun thread than anything natural as it clung to him like a crown, framing the visage of a king, even in death.


    This was Arthur Pendragon, the once-living ruler of Camelot, whose reign had been the stuff of legends. Now, he lay encased in a glass coffin, a cold and lifeless figure, his eyes closed forever, never again to lead his kingdom. The flowers that adorned his body only seemed to enhance the stillness, as though they too mourned the passing of the man who had been the heart of Camelot.


    Merlyn watched the image with a mixture of reverence and something deeper, an understanding of the weight the man once carried and the price of his fall, he carried the burden of humanity.


    Arthur had been more than a king; he had been an ideal, a symbol of hope and strength for all who followed him. "Soon Arthur, wait a little longer."


    Meanwhile In New York,


    [Mission Received ''Maria Profaci'']


    Difficulty: Hard


    Description: Although Joe Profaci considers you a suitable marriage candidate for his beloved niece, he will relentlessly pursue you to the ends of the earth and tear you to pieces if you manage to complete this mission without marrying Maria.


    Objective: Impregnate Maria Profaci as you avoid the constant helicopter parenting of the notorious mafia boss Joe Profaci.


    Main Mission Reward: 100,000 IP


    Impregnante Maria Once:


    Reward: 200 Gacha Impregnate Maria Twice:


    Choose: 4 Epic Pull, 25 Standard Gacha or The choice of Maria''s skills


    Additional Missions:


    Impregnante Maria in her childhood home(Complete)


    Reward: Epic Skill Coupon


    Impregnante Maria before marrying her(Complete)


    Reward: Legendary Coupon


    Impregnate Maria while Joe Profaci is in the vicinity(Complete)


    Reward: +10 Vitality


    Bonus Missions:


    Cum in union with Maria on her first time(Complete)


    Reward: 50 Gacha


    ?????????????


    Take Maria''s Anal Virginity(Complete)


    Reward: +5 dexterity


    ?????????????


    F*ck Maria into an unconscious state(Complete)


    Reward: Epic Item Coupon ?????????????


    ?????????????


    Crunch


    4 Epic Pull


    Right now, while plans were unfolding and strategies were being devised all in his name, Ricky was casually munching on a piece of slightly burnt toast, his eyes focused on the system in front of him.


    Received:


    Dexterity: 59¡ú64 (Middle realm of Superhuman))


    4 Epic Pull


    25 Standard Gacha


    Epic Item Coupon Earlier in the shower, Ricky had received his rewards and wasn''t holding off on the gacha but actually looking at his inventory before he added to it.


    ''Look at all this shit,'' Ricky thought, slathering the slightly burnt toast with more butter as he scrolled through the cluttered mess in his system. His eyes narrowed, a frown tugging at his lips as he realized just how much he had overlooked while always chasing the rarities. There, buried among the chaos, were things he had received that he never bothered to examine things that, now that he looked closer, might actually be worth his attention.


    (Uncommon Item) 9mm pistol: A reliable, compact firearm chambered for 9mm rounds. Known for its accuracy and ease of use, this pistol is an effective choice for self-defense or tactical situations. It comes with a standard magazine and safety features, ready for immediate use.


    This was literally revolutionary to the weapons industry in this time period, if properly assembled and mass-produced. Yet, for the last five years, it had been wasting away in his system''s storage space, completely ignored.


    Sigh


    Ricky let out a sigh, chastising himself for his own negligence as no one else was to blame but him. Still, it was better to come to this realization now, understanding the gravity of these items, how they could reshape the world and strengthen his position, than to never have figured it out at all.


    That''s when Ricky pulled out a sheet of mint-scented paper, one of the many he always kept on hand, along with a pen, and started scribbling down the useful items he could potentially use. It was half-assed, but it was a start. Ricky had slowly been trying to finish what he started, and this moment was no different. He figured it was better to jot down a small number of items now and begin the process than to keep putting it off for some later time that might never come.


    The list included all the useful items he''d received from tasting Irene, like the dryer, among others, but it also contained things he had pushed to the back of his mind. Items he had ignored, dismissed, or simply forgotten about, but now, in the quiet of the moment, they were starting to resurface.


    (Uncommon Item) Self-Watering Planters: Planters equipped with a self-watering system, ensuring that indoor plants receive adequate moisture and reducing the frequency of watering. (Uncommon Item) Reading Light: A clip-on or portable reading light with adjustable brightness, allowing for comfortable reading in low-light conditions.


    (Uncommon Item) Bike Repair Kit: A compact kit containing essential tools for bicycle repair, including tire levers, patch kits, and a mini pump, ensuring riders can handle common issues during bike trips.


    They were items of low rarity, yet surprisingly useful in this day and age, which was why Ricky was finally making an effort to examine their definitions more closely. After jotting down a few more, he slid the paper back into his system on what would become the next iteration of Lucky Incorporated products.


    ''Receive gacha and coupons.''


    [Received:


    (Epic Skill) Artistic Insight: The ability to deeply understand and interpret the underlying message or emotion that a piece of art is trying to convey. (Epic Weapon) Dreadful Kazoo: A weapon disguised as a kazoo, capable of manifesting a real-time illusion that reflects the deepest fears or most dreaded thoughts of the person before you.


    (Epic Item) Separation Cluster: A one-time-use item that, when thrown between you and another individual, creates an instant spatial divide, forcefully separating the two of you by 10 meters.


    (Epic Item) Exit: A seemingly ordinary Exit sign that, when activated in a hopeless or inescapable situation, will illuminate and point in the direction of the nearest escape route. (Epic Item) Insightful Whistle: When blown, sheds insight onto the current situation in which you find yourself stuck in.


    (Rare Weapon) Screeching Shield: A regular shield that emits an ear-piercing wail whenever it is struck, disorienting foes and adding psychological pressure to their attacks. If broken, the shield unleashes a curse upon the destroyer, plaguing them with an agonizing affliction: a tetanus infection that constantly echoes with the screams of the fallen.


    (Uncommon Item) Digital Clock: A regular, unassuming digital clock. It tells the time with accuracy and precision, displaying the hours and minutes in a straightforward manner. X 10


    (Common Item) Breathstrips: Small, mint-flavored strips that dissolve instantly when placed on the tongue, effectively eliminating any bad breath. X 14


    Ricky, eyeing the rewards with a quick flick of his fingers, grabbed the breathstrips and popped one into his mouth, the minty freshness instantly erasing the faint aftertaste of burnt toast. He jotted down the item''s details on the paper, his hand moving with ease as he noted its practical value. As he scribbled, a plate was quietly placed beside him, the warm aroma of a fresh meal mingling with the crisp air of his space.


    "Sorry for burning it all, but our cook is at her daughter''s wedding up in Sicily," Maria said hesitantly, planting a gentle kiss on the top of Ricky''s head. She then moved over to Carmine, trying to lean in and get a glimpse of what his father was scribbling. But just as he was about to tip over onto the table, a bowl was placed in front of him, interrupting his focus.


    "Uh huh," Ricky muttered, still chewing on the bread, barely registering Maria''s words as he kept writing down the items on his paper as his focus remained on the list until, without warning, a piece of bread sailed through the air and hit him.


    "Wha?" Ricky asked, his mouth still stuffed full of the bread as Maria finally got Ricky''s attention that seemingly was on matters unrelated to this world.


    "Is it too burnt-"


    "Nah, I prefer the crunch," Ricky chuckled, realizing he had zoned out as he placed the paper back into the system, grabbed the butter, and began spreading it on another piece of toast, while Carmine dug into his cereal, his spoon clinking softly against the bowl.


    Maria watched with expectant eyes as Ricky nonchalantly devoured the meal she had cooked just for him. A small sense of relief washed over her when he didn''t push the plate away, despite the food not turning out as she''d hoped. Ricky, however, didn''t seem to mind the burnt edges or the runny eggs as he simply ate what was put in front of him, for all his complexity, he was surprisingly simple in that way.


    "Y''know, you have to come and visit, all the time." Maria slowly reached out, slithering her hand over Ricky''s free one as he looked up.


    "Got it," Ricky nodded, shoveling the slightly burnt, yet runny eggs into his mouth as Maria laughed softly.


    "I''m serious, I miss you," Maria chuckled, her voice softening with sincerity and when she looked at him, the longing in her eyes was unmistakable, a quiet plea beneath her playful tone.


    "I promise I''ll come see you and Carmine more, I swear," Ricky said, leaning forward to kiss her on the lips as Maria smiled warmly, the sincerity of his words settling in her heart. Carmine, ever the little mimic, copied his father''s movements and started shoveling cereal into his mouth with the same focused determination.


    "Slow down Carmine, you''ll choke-"


    "Finished!" Carmine yelled, pointing to his bowl then bolting off to go play with his toys.


    Sigh


    Maria simply sighed, puffing out her cheeks as she rested her head on her hand, watching him scramble up the stairs, more crawling than running, before her eyes caught sight of Profaci hanging on the wall. Her expression shifted, a mix of weariness and concern as she took in the familiar, unsettling reminder of something not only looming over her heart, but mind.


    "Ricky." Maria turned back to him, watching as he took a sip of water, only to freeze midway and look up at her.


    "Yeah, baby?" Ricky asked, his voice laced with concern, wondering if he''d done something wrong as he instinctively pulled his elbows off the table, but Maria couldn''t help but laugh.


    "No-hahahahaha!" Maria burst out, her laughter cutting through the moment as she wiped away a few stray tears of amusement. "It''s not about your manners, which do need some work, but about Carmine." Maria shook her head, grabbing the napkin and wiping the ends of his mouth as he raised an eyebrow.


    "What? Is it about the toys-"


    "No, it''s about Uncy," Maria, referring to Profaci with her nickname for him, said, making Ricky actually put down his smile. "I want to know what your plan is for him and I just, I wanna know." Maria said, wanting to speak more, only to stop and repeat the first part of her sentence.


    "Well, unlike with the other families, I ain''t gonna steal what Carmine is gonna inherit," Ricky said, waving his fork as if to emphasize the point that he wasn''t about to take what Profaci intended for them.


    "And when he gets to a certain age, I''m gonna bring him into the family like Lucky did for me, get him used to how everything works, then give him Long Island," Ricky said, outlining Carmine''s future with clarity ashe was telling Maria, without hesitation, that Carmine would inherit Long Island, the territory Profaci had carefully watched over for many years.


    "That''s just it Ricky, I just don''t know if that''s what he wants." Maria rubbed her shoulder, not warning to outright go against Ricky since it felt wrong to shame the line of work that bought her this life, but at the same time, had this motherly instinct to protect Carmine from the family.


    "Baby, listen, if he grows up and tells me he ain''t wanna be in the family, then fine," Ricky shrugged, the words rolling off his tongue with practiced ease, though they carried the weight of a lie.


    In truth, he wouldn''t force Carmine to be him, wouldn''t shove him into a mold that didn''t outline him since Ricky had enough parent issues for both of them.


    But deep down, he knew that no son of his would just walk away from the family like it was nothing.


    Unless Carmine came to him, man to man, looked him in the eye, and said he didn''t want this life, then, and only then, would Ricky would respect it.


    For now, though, he kept up the front for Maria, pretending it was as simple as letting Carmine choose his own path.


    "But let me tell you, Carmine''s got a knack for it, I can feel it." Ricky pointed his fork at Maria, his voice confident as he spoke, eyes full of certainty. Carmine, perched on the stairs, was quietly listening in, his wide eyes peeking through the gap between the railings.


    "Oh yeah, the kid''s gonna excel in the family, I can tell, it''s in his blood." Ricky nodded to himself, so sure of his words that it caught Maria off guard. She sat there for a moment, lost in thought, processing his certainty as her lips parted as if to speak, but she just let the silence hang, unsure of how to respond to his unshakable belief.


    His entire confidence stemmed from the system window that broke down the makings of a great mobster before him. [Name: Carmine Falcone Luciano


    Mother: Maria Profaci


    Grade: A+


    Template: Carmine Falcone


    Template Description: Carmine Falcone was one of the great crime lords of Gotham City, back when it was run by the mafia. Nicknamed The Roman for his unflinching ruthlessness and expansionism, he was one of the earliest enemies of Batman.


    Description: After giving birth to Carmine, Profaci went to great lengths to cover up the truth, locking Maria away from the outside world to ensure her safety upon realizing who the father is. While the city buzzes with life beyond her confinement, Maria remains in a state of quiet anticipation, holding onto the promise of your bound love. She spends her days dreaming of your return to New York, cherishing the hope that soon you will be reunited and that she can reveal the truth about their child. In the solitude of her isolation, Maria''s heart beats with unwavering faith, believing that your love will bridge the distance and bring her back into your embrace.


    Abilities:


    Indomitable Will: the ability of some characters to control their impulses and emotions in order to make their choice clear. Characters with this skill have the internal strength to overcome fear and resist mind control.


    Skills:


    Intimidation: Allows the user to command or control respect through the use of fear. This ability proves particularly useful when combined with the skill of Interrogation.


    Leadership: The ability of some characters to delegate authority and to command the respect and obedience of others


    Deception: the ability of some characters to convince others to believe information that is not true. Characters that can deceive often use tools like distraction, concealment, and propaganda. In many cases it is difficult to distinguish deception from providing unintentionally wrong information.


    Tactical Analysis: the ability to strategize and develop complex plans of actions. This skill often works in tandem with Leadership.]


    "Alright, baby, I gotta go." Ricky stood up abruptly after finishing his plate, wiping his mouth with the napkin that had been tucked into his lap as he leaned down, placing a quick kiss on Maria''s dazed cheek.


    "See ya later, Carmine." Ricky said, his voice steady as he spoke without even looking toward the stairs as he knew the kid was there and it made Carmine flinch, watching quietly as his father walked out the door, disappearing into the world outside with only one thought adorning the young child''s moldable mind.


    ''My blood?''


    20 minutes later,


    "You know I can''t smile without you, can''t smile with you," Ricky hummed softly, tapping his knee in rhythm. His driver glanced over his shoulder, raising an eyebrow at the unexpected serenade and Ricky, lost in the moment, didn''t notice as he just kept humming, letting the tune fill the space between them.


    "Aye, boss, we''re here." The driver pulled up to the bank, and Ricky gave his shoulder a pat before stepping out, adjusting his suit with a quick tug.


    "Jesus, Slick, you''re late!" Meyer stormed down the steps, his frustration evident as a few bystanders turned their heads at the commotion.


    "Hey, hey, how you doing? I''m Ricky Luciano-" Ricky shamelessly grinned, waving at all the hot girls surrounding him as they giggled and waved back with Meyer, unamused, grabbed him by the arm and yanked him into the building.


    "The meeting has literally been going on for an hour and all these ivy league guys are pitching and I prepared a speech for the companies I gave you and-"


    "Meyer, I got this." Ricky smoothly unhooked himself from Meyer''s grasp, striding toward the elevator at his own pace instead of being dragged along.


    "I got companies that will stand the test of time," Ricky chuckled, having dug through those cluster f*ck for memories for this exact purpose. Ding


    The elevator doors slid open, and Ricky stepped out, followed by a visibly troubled Meyer, who was certain Ricky was holding back on some kind of briefing.


    To the side, a pane of glass separated him from the meeting, young men, all eager to prove themselves, taking the shot Lucky was giving them.


    Simply put, this was an investor meeting, but the only investor was Lucky, assessing a room full of Ivy League hopefuls, each vying for a place in his empire.


    Although there were executives Lucky had hired, he always believed in finding talented people amidst the rubble of others'' judgments.


    All these guys had been written off as dreamers, but Lucky wanted to hear them out since after all, visionaries were often dismissed before they proved everyone wrong.


    "What the-Henry?" Ricky almost stopped in his tracks, spotting Henry grinning and waving at him through the glass, all while Lucky''s eyes trailed over to where Ricky was looking before narrowing.


    "Nice of you to show up." Lucky scoffed, his eyes lingering on Ricky as he strolled in and casually plopped down next to him.


    "Hope I didn''t miss anything." Ricky nudged Lucky, giving him a toothy smile as the old man rolled his eyes at this nonchalance.


    "Yeah, you only missed the entire meeting, no biggie." Lucky muttered, crossing his arms and slouching in his chair while looking at the next up to bat.


    "Mr. Luciano, Ricky." Henry said, his voice steady but warm, walking up to the podium to give his speech that he had been tailoring for this exact meeting, giving his regards and respect to the two before starting.


    "I am certain you are well aware of my name, though I find it proper and polite to make a formal introduction nonetheless." Henry gestured to them, his practiced business smile perfectly in place, as polished as his suit.


    All these guys had been written off as dreamers, but Lucky wanted to hear them out since after all, visionaries were often dismissed before they proved everyone wrong.


    "What the-Henry?" Ricky almost stopped in his tracks, spotting Henry grinning and waving at him through the glass, all while Lucky''s eyes trailed over to where Ricky was looking before narrowing.


    "Nice of you to show up." Lucky scoffed, his eyes lingering on Ricky as he strolled in and casually plopped down next to him.


    "Hope I didn''t miss anything." Ricky nudged Lucky, giving him a toothy smile as the old man rolled his eyes at this nonchalance.


    "Yeah, you only missed the entire meeting, no biggie." Lucky muttered, crossing his arms and slouching in his chair while looking at the next up to bat.


    "Mr. Luciano, Ricky." Henry said, his voice steady but warm, walking up to the podium to give his speech that he had been tailoring for this exact meeting, giving his regards and respect to the two before starting.


    "I am certain you are well aware of my name, though I find it proper and polite to make a formal introduction nonetheless." Henry gestured to them, his practiced business smile perfectly in place, as polished as his suit.


    With a deliberate bow, he straightened up, meeting Ricky''s eyes as he raised an eyebrow in a mixture of amusement and curiosity, the faintest smile tugging at the corner of his lips at the guy he hadn''t expected to show up and yet, here he was, right before him.


    "I am Henry Ford III, and I''ve come today with one purpose in mind: to persuade Lucky Legacy Bank to take its place as a valued shareholder in Ford Motor Company." Henry introduced, then clicked a button, causing a well-arranged slideshow to spring to life behind him, illustrating the promising growth of his family''s empire.


    Henry allowed the moment to linger as the first slide projected on the wall behind him. It showed a sleek, shiny Ford Model A rolling down a polished road, the sun gleaming off its chrome finish. A symbol of American progress and innovation, one that had captured the imagination of millions.


    "As you can see," Henry continued, his voice growing confident as he beckoned to the image behind him. "Ford Motor Company has always been at the forefront of innovation. We''ve not just built cars; we''ve built a legacy. The Model A has become an icon, a representation of strength and reliability that has found its way into the lives of countless working Americans." Henry introduced the car, delivering his pitch with smooth confidence, hoping to captivate their attention and hold it until the very end of his speech.


    He clicked the next slide, revealing a graph that showed a sharp upward trajectory in the company''s stock price over the last few years.


    "Now, as you know, Mr. Luciano," Henry said, his gaze shifting from Ricky to Lucky, the current chairman of this establishment. "We stand at the precipice of something even greater. With the introduction of the V8 engine, we are positioned to not only maintain our dominance in the automotive industry but to surpass it. We are talking about a future where Ford vehicles aren''t just tools, they''re a movement. A movement that you, Mr. Luciano, can be a part of." Henry paused, his eyes firm while looking the man square in the eyes which garnered a raised eyebrow.


    It was then that there was this subtle shift in the room as Henry leaned slightly forward, speaking now with a more personal tone, as though this were not merely a sales pitch, but a calculated invitation.


    "I understand the world you operate in, Mr. Luciano. Power, control, and vision. And I offer you a chance to step into my world, through Ford Motor Company. Our success can be your success. Together, we can shape the future. Your influence combined with the Ford legacy could be all but unstoppable." Henry clicked another slide, displaying a projected roadmap of Ford''s future expansion, including new factories, increased production capacity, and international markets.


    "So, what I''m proposing today is simple," Henry said, his voice firm, yet inviting as gestured towards all of them.


    "An opportunity to join the ranks of those who built empires not just with money, but with foresight. With vision. With ambition. You, Mr. Luciano, are a man who knows how to turn opportunity into power. This is your chance to do the same, on a scale far larger than anything before." Henry paused again, allowing the weight of his words to settle and really soak into their brains before his eyes flashed like the projector behind him.


    "But the question remains." Henry added with a slow smile, spreading out his arms along with it.


    "Are you ready to step into the future with Ford?"


    It was then Lucky looked at Henry, really looked at him, and then at his speech, along with his performance.


    It was no common thing in this day in age to understand the impact that was currently surroundings their struggling market.


    As mentioned many times before, the Great Depression was still a lingering force in 1936, but through the New Deal programs, also mentioned before, it was showing signs of recovery. However, although prominent, Ford, like many businesses, had faced significant struggles during the early years of the Depression. However, by 1936, the company was recovering and gaining momentum again.


    Henry Ford Sr. had maintained his position as one of the most well-known and influential industrialists, but though all his success it was his stubborn management style had led to tensions within the company and the broader automotive industry. His commitment to mass production and a focus on making cars affordable for ordinary Americans helped to drive the industry forward, though there were still economic challenges in the air.


    This can be referenced around 1932, which marked the introduction of the Ford V8 engine, a major milestone in automotive technology and by god did it change cars forever.


    The V8 was a game-changer, offering more power at a relatively affordable price, and it helped Ford reclaim its competitive edge in the industry. Even now, the V8 engine has established itself as a symbol of Ford''s innovation and technical prowess. But despite all its technological successes, Ford faced significant labor unrest during this time, with Lucky being one of the very roots of the problem. His involvement had inadvertently strained any cooperative relationship they might have had but this was precisely why Lucky was so intrigued by his grandson making the initiative to reach out, even if he was friends with Ricky. The sole reason for this resentment was due to Ford''s notorious reputation for its treatment of workers, and the company''s stance on unions was one of the most contentious issues in the 1930s. Ford had previously resisted unionization efforts, as many large companies did, but by 1936, labor unions were gaining strength across the U.S. at a pace far quicker than anyone had anticipated. Lucky''s firm grip on the unions, especially the Teamsters, had already created a wedge between the Luciano family and the corporate elite, the 1%. While the rich sought to maintain their power, the growing labor movement, fueled by the interests of Lucky and the family, made it increasingly difficult for them to keep their stronghold. The tension between the two worlds was palpable, and it seemed like only a matter of time before it all boiled over into something bigger, which actually cultivated into a single event.


    More specifically, the Ford Hunger March of 1932, where workers protested against the company''s low wages and poor working conditions, had cast a long shadow that had reared its ugly head.


    While protests like these weren''t uncommon, it was the extensive media coverage that ignited widespread outrage, leaving the Ford Motor Company in a precarious position.


    Now, in the present time, labor unrest was still a dire concern, though the company was attempting to manage relations with workers and avoid further strikes, especially as workers in the auto industry were becoming more organized and vocal, which could be traced back to Lucky''s vicious tactics.


    But the main focus shifts back to Henry Ford''s stubbornness in failing to adapt to the changing times.


    In the years leading up to the Depression, Ford had adopted a business model based on mass production, with the goal of driving down the cost of vehicles and making them affordable for everyday Americans while having his company at the center of it all.


    This strategy was successful for a time, but by the late 1920s, there were signs of overproduction in the auto industry. Ford had just pumped out too many cars, particularly the Model T, and it resulted in the market becoming saturated.


    In fact, the situation had become so dire that investors were growing uneasy, with many opting to sell off their shares. Ford had experienced stagnation for four consecutive years, posting significant losses. However, none felt the sting more than Finnegan & Cross Hedge Fund since at its peak, the hedge fund had amassed over 200,000 shares in Ford, making them a significant minority shareholder.


    By 1936, the hedge fund''s substantial holdings in Ford had turned into a financial burden. With mounting pressure to recover their losses and provide positive returns for their investors, Finnegan & Cross concluded that the only viable option was to sell off their stake in Ford, cutting their ties with the failing giant while recouping their losses.


    Once a promising investment, the stock had plummeted, and the fund''s position in the company was sinking fast. With mounting pressure to recover their losses and provide positive returns for their investors, Finnegan & Cross concluded that the only viable option was to sell off their stake in Ford, cutting their ties with the failing giant while recouping their losses.


    "So, let me get this straight, you''re here, asking me to buy a minority stake, not from you, but from a fund?" Lucky asked, his gaze fixed on the young man, who nodded just slightly.


    "Yes, sir."


    "And on top of that, you want me to invest in a motor company that''s failing to innovate, all because of that old prick, Henry Ford, your grandfather, and his less impressive son, your father, Edsel Ford?" Lucky pointed at Henry, whose name was a direct tribute to his grandfather and received it from his father.


    "Precisely."


    "...." Lucky sort of sat there, looking around at the others who all shrugged at him while Ricky just leaned back, at the good side of the table.


    "And why the hell would I do that?" Lucky asked, crossing his fingers as the young man began to sweat.


    "Because of me." Henry puffed out his chest, trying to be strong but only made Lucky roll his eyes.


    "You, the kid who only got in here because of your name and your friendship with my son?" Lucky asked again, demeaning Henry further, but the man stood firm.


    "Yes."


    "Alright, I''m interested." Lucky sat back, nodding in approval as it took guts to pitch for shares he didn''t even own to a bunch of mobsters.


    "I''ll humor you with the question, why, why should we invest in you." Lucky gestured towards Henry, giving him the floor as the spotlight suddenly shined down on him.


    "Because one day, I''ll sit at the center of it all and quadruple your investment." Henry stood tall before Lucky, who casually rubbed the top of his ivory cane, considering the bold claim.


    "And if you don''t?" Lucky tilted his head, his tone casual, but there was something in his gaze that made Henry swallow hard.


    It was only then that he finally looked around, at the men whose dangerous expressions spoke of lives they had watched drain away.


    These weren''t Ivy League businessmen, these were mobsters. The sharp suits didn''t change that fact nor did the sign on the door, these men had once shattered kneecaps for a living and holding a briefcase didn''t change how they went about carrying out business.


    "I''m willing to put my legs on the line, as collateral." Henry closed his eyes, speaking the words that not only surprised the executives, but even caught Ricky and Lucky off guard as they exchanged a look before nodding, clearly intrigued by his audacity.


    "Hmmm, alright." Lucky hummed, rubbing his ivory cane in a counterclockwise motion as he promptly agreed.


    "Great, then you-"


    "If Slick here agrees too," Lucky gestured toward Ricky, who flashed a laughing smile, almost enjoying how this was all going.


    Sigh


    Henry let out a heavy sigh, wanting not only to befriend this family but also to give them a reason to tie themselves to his company so he would have his own backing when he reached the head of his family''s company that was drowning under their past glory. Henry also wasn''t a naive idiot, he knew it was morally wrong, but at the end of the day, all that mattered was the color green. For the gentlemen he was at heart, that could be set aside for the right opportunity. It was just that Ricky was a demon, a shameless guy who would absolutely hold it over his head, and Henry knew that all too well.


    "Man, I don''t know, pops. Seems pretty risky." Ricky played his role, Lucky chuckling as Henry pinched his nose in frustration.


    "What do you want-"


    "What do I want? Good question." Ricky laughed, leaning forward as Henry stared at the shameless man.


    "Nothing." Ricky tapped his hand on the table, leaning back, and it shocked everyone in the room who knew him.


    "Pops, you should invest in him." Ricky nudged his elbow into Lucky''s side, raising an eyebrow at his sudden proclamation.


    "You''re kidding, I thought you were gonna make him grovel-"


    "I mean, yeah, that would be hilarious, but back then, he was probably one of the only guys who not only treated me like an equal, but with respect." Ricky gestured, smiling at Henry, since he was trying to pay Henry''s respect with respect of his own.


    "Cardinal Sebastion always says pay it forward, so let''s pay it forward." Ricky nodded to Henry, the man actually baffled beyond words at this point and unable to speak.


    "Bullsh*t." Lucky shook his head, pointing at Ricky, knowing he''d never let an opportunity like that pass by for no reason.


    "Alright, fine. I actually think Ford is gonna stand the test of time, but most of all, I don''t hate Henry." Ricky was straightforward with Lucky, dropping the facade as the real truth came out as Henry felt incredibly awkward, unsure how to react.


    "Um, I''m right here-"


    "But the kid just walked in here like he owned the place, we can''t let it slide-"


    "Pops, that''s just how he walks, in reality he is like a little docile lamb." Ricky chuckled, uncaring at Henry''s scrunching his brows in annoyance.


    "And if he doesn''t pay off, we can always skin him for his coat." Ricky laughed, the words sending a chill down Henry''s spine as he instinctively glanced at his own skin.


    Meanwhile, those young dreamers, the same that had pitched and hoped to pitch their ideas to them, now fully aware they were out of their depth, slowly began to back away, leaving only the hired executives, former mobsters, and Henry in the room.


    "Should I-"


    "You should stay." Meyer closed the door before the kid could escape, a smile playing on his lips as he turned to Henry, who, for a moment, felt like making a quick exit.


    "Alright, now that the pests are gone, tell us the real reason you''re here. And don''t worry, you can trust these guys." Lucky gestured toward Henry after scaring off the wimps, realizing he might have stuck his neck out for some nobody losers, but at least Henry stayed.


    "I want to take over the company from my father, to become chairman and CEO of Ford Motor Company." Henry nodded, outlining his goal, while Ricky suddenly had a thought on the cusp of fruition all while Lucky had already understood.


    Snap


    Snap


    "Oh sh*t, I know the lingo it''s a-" Ricky snapped his fingers, trying to figure out what the correct wording was only for it to appear in his mind.


    "Hostile takeover, is that really necessary?" Lucky purposely interrupted, while Ricky scoffed, and Henry remained firm.


    One of the key internal reasons for Ford''s struggles during this time was Henry Ford''s resistance to change that was becoming not only apparent to the Ford Family, but even the workers, investors, and even outside third parties.


    Ford, who had revolutionized the auto industry with the Model T, was deeply committed to maintaining a standardized, no-frills design for his vehicles. However, the Model T was becoming outdated, and consumers were increasingly interested in cars with more modern features, such as better styling, more powerful engines, and greater comfort.


    Ford''s unwillingness to update the design of the Model T and his reluctance to introduce more variety into Ford''s lineup alienated potential buyers. Competitors like General Motors, led by Alfred P. Sloan, recognized this shift and adapted to market demands, offering a wider range of vehicles at different price points. This flexibility helped GM weather the storm of the Depression better than Ford, whose refusal to modernize the Model T slowed sales and hurt the company''s ability to compete and led Henry Ford II to this path.


    "It is," Henry said, his eyes hardening as he met the gaze of the devils around him, unflinching as he stood ready to make a deal.


    "My grandfather and father are destroying this company and sure, no matter what happens I''ll be rich and i-"


    Henry rambled on, justifying why the Ford Motor Company needed to be taken from the hands of his grandfather and father, but deep down, he knew it was a lie.


    The truth is, people are creatures of attachment, bound by the invisible threads of history, emotion, and dependency. Henry''s attempt to ruthlessly maneuver behind his father''s back, thinking he could sever that bond with ease, was a naive belief. It was easy to convince oneself that cutting ties would be a simple act, that the world could be reordered according to one''s own ambition. But that''s the thing with ruthless decisions: while they might seem clear in theory, they often unravel into a web of consequences that complicate even the simplest of actions.


    It''s why you parade yourself with these thoughts of how or why you do it, building it all up in your mind, yet despite everything you''ve planned, the words of hate never actually leave your mouth.


    Because the harsh reality is that very few people can actually go through with it.


    There is a reason the world isn''t full of ruthless people because it takes more than just desire, it takes the ability to remain detached, to sever ties without flinching when the inevitable echoes of that decision reverberate through every corner of one''s life.


    To bear the echoes of cries from all those you wronged, remaining unflinching in the face of what you truly desire, most people crumble under the sheer weight of those agonizing screams, let alone the actual action itself.


    People always say they can break things off, eliminate others, remove any and all obstacles from their path, but in truth, most are paralyzed by the fear of emptiness that follows such actions.


    Not with the aftermath of destruction, not even the consequences of your actions, but simply being alone with yourself. It''s the silence that looms over you after everything you''ve ruthlessly destroyed, that''s when it becomes deafening.


    Filling your ears with all the things you never wanted to confront; your own doubts, insecurities, and the void where your humanity once resided. It''s why it''s easier to keep pushing forward, to just nod your head and go along with all the pain that comes with it, since it''s better than actually feeling nothing at all, at least for the majority of sheep. It''s that illusion of progress, the constant noise, the distractions, they''re all just ways to drown out the silence.


    Because in that silence, you''re exposed. For most, the emptiness is more suffocating than the weight of the world, the weight of words or the weight of any actions. It''s why so many cling to the familiar misery because at least it''s something they can hold onto.


    But the problem with Henry''s words, his ramblings, was that he was looking at two people who had crossed into that unfamiliar territory, into that silence, and it was why they saw right through him.


    "Oh, come on, Henry, don''t get all sentimental on me. Just f*cking stop!" Ricky cackled out a laugh, covering his face with one hand and nudging Lucky with the other, who was also chuckling at him.


    "Aye Henry, do you know what kind of guy loads a gun but can''t even pull the trigger?" Lucky asked Henry, watching the young man try to scavenge around for an answer only for Ricky to join in.


    "A coward? A sissy? Nah, it''s a chump." Ricky answered for him, shaking his head while basically insulting Henry to his face.


    "If I were your father and failing your company, I''d hope Slick here would put me out of my misery," Lucky said, waving his hand in the air as Ricky casually leaned back in his seat, a smirk tugging at his lips.


    "Sh*t, ditto." Ricky chimed in, knowing full well that Lucky had done exactly that when he sent him away.


    BAM


    Henry''s fist slammed into the table before them as his gaze bore into the mobsters who gathered around the table, his hand still pressing even deeper against the hard surface, his knuckles white. The tension in the room thickened as the echoes of his harsh slam reverberated in the cold air before their attention fully enclosed back onto him, signaling he wasn''t done.


    The truth was undeniable, in fact, it was etched into his very being. Henry had been born into a life most would envy, a life filled with privilege, luxury, and the constant adoration of everyone around him. A golden spoon had been placed in his mouth before he even took his first breath. But that very abundance, that constant stream of affection, had become nothing more than a hollow echo in his life.


    He had everything, yet nothing seemed to fill the void inside. When someone has it all, the meaning behind everything starts to slip away. What''s left when the things most people fight for have already been handed to you? The love, the power, the wealth, none of it could provide the satisfaction he craved, to fill that hollow ache in his soul.


    "But what''s the point of being rich if you don''t have any of the power that comes with it? That just makes you an empty shell." Henry''s gaze pierced through the two of them, but both Lucky and Ricky only smiled in response.


    "I don''t want to live my life without power, I want it and I need it." Henry didn''t even hide it anymore, he didn''t lie or did he prance around the topic, he just blurted it out.


    And so, like a moth to a flame, Henry began to chase after something else, something more elusive, something he couldn''t simply have by birthright.


    "But what''s the point of being rich if you don''t have any of the power that comes with it? That just makes you an empty shell." Henry''s gaze pierced through the two of them, but both Lucky and Ricky only smiled in response.


    "I don''t want to live my life without power, I want it and I need it." Henry didn''t even hide it anymore, he didn''t lie or did he prance around the topic, he just blurted it out.


    "I won''t sit here and lie to you, I want to use you two to propel my company into the new age and even further beyond that." Henry pointed at the two of them, receiving that sparkling interest in their eyes once more.


    "I want you to use me so that you can use me." Henry''s words solidified his grandfather and father''s fate in this very moment as Ricky wiped his mouth.


    "And here I thought I was going to be the most interesting thing at this meeting," Ricky said, standing up and clapping, followed by Lucky, who prompted the others to join in.


    "Listen Henry, you do know your getting mobster-"


    "I don''t care. I want my company, and I want it in my hands," Henry said, discarding the sly talk. He knew these men were straightforward, and he needed to be just as direct.


    Then we''ll be in touch." Lucky nodded, giving Henry the unspoken signal to leave as he returned the nod, walking out as Meyer gave him a quick acknowledgment.


    Finally, all eyes turned toward Ricky as he reached into his suit, pulling out a cocktail napkin covered in scribblings.


    "Jesus Christ, Slick-" Meyer sighed, shaking his head as Lucky held up his hands, silencing the growing discontent with a single gesture.


    This meeting would determine where Lucky Legacy Bank would stand in the next ten, twenty years, and the companies they would get involved with had to endure. So when they all saw Ricky pull out a cocktail napkin, it was only Lucky who truly decided to hear him out.


    Ahem


    The room was silent, save for the faint creak of old leather chairs as the men shifted uncomfortably. Ricky leaned back, his confidence palpable, letting his words sink in as the names he had just rattled off hung in the air like a challenge, daring anyone to dismiss them.


    "Ford, General Electric, Johnson & Johnson, Exxon, Mobil Oil, IBM, Boeing, and Coca-Cola," Ricky repeated, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips as he read off all the names he had quickly scribbled onto the napkin.


    "They''re not just companies, they''re institutions in the making." Ricky gave his short and sweet explanation, not giving a parade of words like the others and simply making it clear he believed in what he had said.


    The gathered men exchanged skeptical glances, their deadpan expressions betraying a mix of doubt and confusion. Right now, these companies were already known players, but Ricky''s declaration went beyond the obvious. To them, it sounded almost absurd to propose investing in companies that were already on an upward trajectory. They weren''t looking for safe bets; they wanted game-changers, something that could carve out a stake in uncharted territory.


    "What''s your point, Slick?" One of the older men finally asked, his tone gruff, masking the curiosity behind his question.


    "The point is, these companies aren''t just going to survive, they''re going to dominate," Ricky boldly declared, his confidence unwavering. "For the next 80 years, they''ll be at the top of their industries, shaping the world as we know it." Ricky said it with such conviction, outright declaring a future none of these men had any way of predicting, yet expecting them to jump on board without hesitation.


    The room grew even quieter as some of the men began to fidget, while others crossed their arms, skeptical but intrigued. "Slick, we are looking for groundbreaking-"


    "But," Ricky interrupted smoothly, leaning back in his chair, his confidence radiating like a beacon. "Groundbreaking isn''t always what builds empires. It''s the foundation that holds them together." Ricky really caught them all off guard with these words, mostly how it didn''t really fit with his crude and forthright narrative he had set painfully clear in their minds.


    It was why the room quieted as the men exchanged skeptical glances again, their cigars burning low in forgotten hands.


    "You want a bank?" Ricky continued, tapping the table for emphasis. "You want to play with money, fine. But if you''re wanting something, companies that can outlast wars, and market crashes, this is it." Ricky slammed the cocktail napkin on the table, his words making everyone in the room turn to Lucky, who remained calm.


    "And you think you know what that is, what the future really is?" Lucky asked, squinting his eyes since the money they were ''playing with'' ranged in the millions of dollars.


    "I''ll put my neck, my reputation, and everything else on the line," Ricky said, his confidence unwavering as Lucky rubbed his chin, studying him carefully.


    The future was uncertain. Ricky had literally changed it, and the ripple effects were already being felt, with the possibility of going bankrupt hanging over them if they made a wrong move.


    But the problem with money was that it moved too quickly, like a current that couldn''t be grasped.


    Ricky, though, was trying to give this upstart bank some solid ground to stand on, hoping to turn the tide before it swept them all away.


    "I trust you," Lucky''s words hit the room like a jolt of electricity. The executives, including Meyer, froze in surprise, and Meyer was the first to stand up, his expression filled with disbelief.


    "Lucky-"


    "Slick has gone through hell to prove himself, and with all of that comes trust," Lucky waved his hands, dismissing any potential arguments before they even had a chance to form.


    "Unless my son breaks that trust, I have no reason to go against it now," Lucky revealed, making Ricky smile. It was rare for people to wholeheartedly believe in you, especially when those people were the ones you called family, but when they did, it was a feeling like no other.


    "But know this Slick, the world of money is different than how it flows in the family, and when it''s time you''re gonna need to take it more seriously." Lucky then stood up, adjusting his suit while walking towards the door.


    "Invest the capital we have into those companies and get that stupid fund to sell those shares at a ''discount''." Lucky notified some of his executives who nodded as he stopped at the doorway.


    "You coming to dinner?" Lucky asked, turning back since he wanted to know if he was setting extra plates.


    "Yeah, I''ll be there." Ricky laughed, watching Lucky nod before walking off to go back to work.


    "Sorry Meyer, I didn''t mean to step on your toes-" Ricky then turned to a disheveled Meyer who simply shook his head.


    Sigh


    "Honestly, I''m not even trying to go against you, but be a voice of reason." Meyer then walked after Lucky, waving to him, showing that they were squared.


    "See ya around."


    Ricky stepped out of the grand doors of Lucky Legacy Bank, his polished shoes clicking against the stone steps as he descended. However as the usual sleek car awaited at the curb, he raised a hand to dismiss the driver.


    For some reason, today just didn''t seem like a day for riding in the back seat. Today, he needed to feel it all beneath his feet.


    It was why he turned onto the bustling streets of the boroughs, his coat catching the cold wind as the once-chaotic noise of the city seemed to quiet as he moved. The crowd parted instinctively, like a tide making way for a ship, their murmurs hushed but their eyes unwavering. Ricky could feel their gazes, some curious, some cautious, but most carrying a newfound respect.


    Ricky walked with purpose, his chin held high, his hands tucked into his pockets. The scent of freshly baked bread mingled with the faint tang of smoke from a nearby chimney.


    Street vendors paused mid-shout, their calls of hot pretzels and roasted chestnuts trailing off as their eyes followed him.


    It hadn''t always been this way. Even just months ago, he''d been another face in the crowd and it took a little while to really recognize him but now, they had memorized his face from the papers constantly in circulation.


    At this point in time, you had to be a hermit if you didn''t know Ricky Luciano and that sleazy smile of his. another shadow in the alleys of New York. Now, every step he took seemed to echo with the weight of his name, Luciano. It just rolled off tongues of these passersby with a mix of reverence and caution, whispered in corners and shouted in backrooms.


    Even in the distance, even when it was just a passing glance, a group of dockworkers paused their heavy lifting as he passed, halting their own work to reach towards their grime-covered caps and tilt it in a silent acknowledgement. A mother tugged her child closer, whispering something that made the boy stare wide-eyed at Ricky before giving him a quick, awkward bow. Even the usual rabble of street thugs, giving anyone a scowl if they even looked at them, didn''t dare meet Ricky''s general direction.


    This was power in the form of recognition and Ricky couldn''t help but have his lips twitch into a faint smile, but it wasn''t one of arrogance. It was the satisfaction of a man who had carved his name into stone with his own two hands.


    In essence, this was a reward for his efforts that went beyond the system, beyond the family as with each nod, each glance of recognition, was a reminder of how far he had come, from a boy who had just awoke in an alleyway to a figure who commanded respect without even uttering a single word.


    "It''s that f*cking Luciano again." A teenager with an ego reinforced by all his Irish friends sniggering around him muttered, as Ricky side-eyed him.


    This all applied, except for one marginalized group.


    Although all the territories had fallen under his clutches, most ethnic groups weren''t entirely satisfied but all bowed their heads to Ricky. Except for the Irish Mafia, the first ones to fall to him in the event dubbed ''The Irish Massacre,'' which had festered into a longstanding grudge against him.


    ''Little does that brat know that I''m not afraid to punch a baby, let alone a teenag-''


    BAM


    But just as Ricky neared the teenager, something unexpected happened.


    From the corner of his eye, Ricky saw a scruffy kid, barely ten, with wild hair and a dirt-smudged face, dart out from behind a vendor''s cart. The boy was holding a wooden basket, half-full of apples, and he moved with the determination of someone much older.


    Before anyone could react, even Ricky, the kid swung the basket overhead with all his might, smashing it against the teen''s head.


    THUMP


    The teenager crumbled to the ground, his friends, already pale, became even paler as they immediately rushed to help him, but their eyes shot up to Ricky, who flicked his head to the side, a curious thought crossing his mind.


    Looking off into the distance, watching them hurriedly carry the kid away, Ricky''s interest didn''t lie with the kids who didn''t know their place. It was something else, something deeper, that kept his focus and finally, he turned back to the kid, his head lowered, a silent acknowledgement hanging in the air.


    "Why did you do that?" Ricky asked, his curiosity piqued by the kid''s defiant behavior as the kid looked up, his blue eyes glinting beneath the mess of dirty blonde hair, a flicker of something unreadable passing through them.


    "Because I don''t want him ruining my ma''s business." The kid plainly stated, his voice low and monotonous as Ricky laughed at it.


    "And why is that?" Ricky pressed further, his gaze fixed on the kid.


    "Because everyone knows you run things, and words like that always cause trouble for my ma, so I didn''t want him to say things," The kid monotonously explained, showing no hint of fear even when looking straight at Ricky.


    Ricky rubbed his chin, eyeing the kid who had just smashed an empty crate over another kid for speaking badly about him.


    "What''s your name?"


    "Benni, with an I."


    "The f*ck, that''s gay, your Benny with a y." "Okay."


    The conversation was short and brief, but Ricky couldn''t help himself as the kid''s name just didn''t sit right.


    "You know Benny, kids like you are rare since I haven''t seen one willing to go to such lengths because of some word." Ricky chuckled, taking his hands out of his pockets and looking around since it seemed like Benny was the only one able to even look him in the eye.


    "And for that, I like you." Ricky reached into his suit, looking down at Benny, who stood there, silently absorbing the praise from the most powerful man in New York.


    "I need people like you, ones who know who to follow and don''t hesitate to act," Ricky chuckled, pulling out a card and handing it to him.


    "If you ever want power, real f*cking power, you ask around and give this to a guy named Johnny." Ricky nodded, watching him take the card out of his hand as he slowly backed away.


    "Why do I want power?" Johnny asked curiously, not fully understanding the notion, as Ricky bent down to look him right in the eyes.


    "Because power is everything," Ricky said, his voice low and deliberate as he bent down to meet Johnny''s curious gaze. "Power gives you control. Over your life, over your choices, over the people who''d rather see you crawl than stand tall," Ricky said with a wide smile, drilling the mindset into the unknowing kid before him.


    "It''s what made you straighten that kid out for talking bad about me, ''cause you know I have the power to wipe away this entire f*cking block." Ricky poked at his chest, not hiding the fact that if he wanted to, then he could downright destroy this entire block.


    "That''s power, that''s my Luciano family." Ricky waved, backing up and walking down the road.


    "You follow me, kid, and you''ll see power that can uplift a simple apple vendor into something, something real," Ricky said, his voice smooth but filled with an undeniable edge as he sidestepped past Benny.


    It was something so indescribable and yet, Benny''s eyes widened, the harsh sunlight breaking through the urban canopy and seemingly highlighting Ricky in this celestial glow. It was the sort of image that would stay with him, even if he didn''t fully understand it yet.


    What most people fail to grasp about leadership is that it''s not simply a matter of giving orders or demanding obedience. It''s about a deeper, more subtle form of influence. True leadership isn''t about forcing people to follow you; it''s about earning their trust, respect, and loyalty. It''s about inspiring them, not with fear or coercion, but with conviction and vision. Leaders who can make others believe in them, who can ignite passion and commitment in their followers, are the ones who shape destinies and do it all without even trying.


    Ricky had accidently inspired Benny, this seemingly dull kid, to actually crack his voice as he scrambled to catch up, his feet pounding the sidewalk with excitement. "W-W-What can I get with your power?" Benny shouted, his words desperate for the answer of the only question that mattered.


    Ricky''s lips curled into a knowing smirk, his eyes catching the sun''s fading light as he stopped walking, turning on his heel to face the young man, his coat swishing around him like the cloak of a conqueror. Benny stopped, breathless and expectant, eyes wide and eager to absorb whatever was coming next.


    Ricky spread his arms wide, almost theatrically, his voice a calm rumble that carried over the wind.


    "Everything."


    The word hung in the air like a promise, rich with unspoken possibilities as the wind swirled around them, brushing against Benny''s face as if the city itself was shifting its focus onto their direct conversation.


    Ricky was only a few steps ahead, but in that moment, with the golden light framing his figure, it felt as if Ricky was miles above him, untouchable, unreachable.


    It''s why Benny stood frozen, his heart racing to a beat he never thought possible, the weight of those words settling into him with a force he couldn''t yet understand. The light from the setting sun seemed to shine only on Ricky, casting a halo around him that made the young man feel like he was witnessing something bigger than himself, something that could change his life in an instant.


    The truth was, Benny didn''t know it yet, but that was the moment everything would shift for him.


    Ricky had just drawn a line in the sand, and on the other side was the world that Benny had no way of knowing.


    One where power, influence, and wealth weren''t just for the lucky few, but for anyone who could grasp them.


    As Ricky began walking again, Benny''s legs seemed to move without his consent, pulling him forward. Pushing past that line and onto the path that Ricky walked, unable to even stop himself from advancing.


    And as the sun set behind them, casting long shadows over the streets, one thing was clear: Benny''s life would never be the same.


    It was then that Benny''s foot, about to unconsciously muster forward, almost drawn to the path Ricky was walking on like a moth to a flame, only for a hand to be placed on his shoulder.


    "Honey, what are you doing? We have apples to sell." His mother asked, kissing his cheek and pulling him back.


    Ricky slowly disappeared from his vision, but Benny could never forget that feeling as he looked down at the card, clutching it close to his chest as if it were something precious. He muttered the words under his breath, words that would ensnare him, and everyone of his generation, into the world Ricky had just shown him.


    "Can I really have everything?"

 Chapter 160 - 155: Urgency Comes With Pressure

    Chapter 160: Chapter 155: Urgency Comes With Pressure


    Arriving at Italiano''s, the encounter was nothing more than a fleeting moment he would soon forget.


    Yet, unlike that moment, another lingered, buzzing around his ear like an incessant fly, as he stepped into the restaurant he had turned into his home office.


    "Help me ransack Camelot." Morgana scrunched her brows, following after Ricky, who sighed at her request.


    "No, go away."


    Anyone who thought Morgana would give up after her last card was deactivated would be dead wrong, the self-proclaimed Queen of Magic was nothing if not stubborn.


    Though she could abandon this vessel at any time, she refused to forsake the prospect of victory.


    And so, she resorted to the last tactic she knew, annoyance, until she could devise another.


    "I am a queen, and you are a mere peasant which means you have no right to refuse¡ª" Morgana blabbered on, trailing after Ricky into the restaurant.


    "Oh, what the f*ck." Ricky sighed, staring at what should have been his meticulously categorized stack of papers, now, quite literally, built into a fort.


    Within its confines sat both Alexander and Chester, completely drained, as Ricky walked over, his eyes widening at the scene before him.


    But it wasn''t at the lifeless familiar but the contents surrounding them as he grabbed one paper, then another, his gaze flicking between them before landing on the two familiars with a look of surprise.


    The hardest thing about paperwork wasn''t that it was inherently difficult, it was simply tedious.


    After you understood the core concepts of whatever form it was you needed to fill out, you realized that it was all numbers, and even numbers eventually zero out.


    But it wasn''t the numbers themselves that wore you down; it was the monotonous repetition.


    Having to do paperwork over and over again, knowing exactly how it starts, how it plays out, and how it ends.


    That''s why no one truly enjoys work.


    It''s not the task itself, it''s the certainty of its outcome, the knowledge that the end result is always the same.


    What keeps you going is the reward for your effort, the satisfaction of seeing a wad of money placed in your hand that signals your efforts weren''t in vain.


    But what separates you from a regular automatic drone is your approach, because it''s the process that defines us, the very thing that makes humans so remarkable.


    Everyone tackles their work differently, bringing their own methods, their own rhythms, and even their own creativity to the task.


    It''s not just about the outcome, it''s about how you navigate the grind, how you turn something monotonous into your own form of expression, that''s what gives work meaning.


    The way we adapt, innovate, and make our own path through the routine is what makes it actually mean something.


    "You did it. Not only that, but you cleared the backlog on the distributors." Ricky was impressed, knowing Alexander was the type to always prove he was better than expected.


    "I came, I saw, and I conquered," Alexander breathlessly declared before passing out from exhaustion as Ricky sighed and scooped him up, setting him off to the side.


    "Sure did, buddy."


    Almost instantly, Ricky returned to his work, settling into his seat as Morgana endlessly spewed words, unable to even let him have a single moment of peace while spouting out ramblings about why he should follow her whims.


    However, as time passed, the sheer annoyance of it all began to build.


    "And another thing-"


    "ENOUGH!" Ricky yelled, frustrated with her persistence as he turned to face her, seeing her arms crossed defiantly.


    Snort


    "You dare defy your king?" Alexander snorted awake, still mid-dream before collapsing back to the table.


    "What are you to do, throw me out?" Morgana scoffed, knowing that the man before her was shameless but not that much so.


    Ricky, on the other hand, slowly stood up, gazing down at her with narrowed eyes as Morgana looked up at him, her brows scrunched in defiance.


    "You wouldn''t dare."


    1 minute later,


    "Y-You dare!?" Morgana yelled, being literally thrown out and rolling into the trash as she looked up once more, her glare sharp while slowly pushing herself up.


    "I knew I smelled skank."


    Suddenly, from the side, crude, hissing words echoed as Morgana turned her head, a rotten banana peel dripping down her face and her disheveled hair framing her features.


    There, standing before her, was someone she hadn''t seen in decades, Raven.


    However, the beautiful cerulean blue skinned woman, didn''t actually know who this woman was, side-eyed her almost instinctively, making a passing comment that left Morgana''s mouth agape.


    "YOU DARE RAVE-"


    DINK


    Right as Raven crossed the threshold, a barrier materialized, and Morgana collided with it, pounding her fists against its invisible surface in frustration.


    "Hey, tiger~" Raven purred, holding up a bagged lunch as the haggard Ricky smiled as she sat right on his lap, planting a kiss on his cheek.


    "Hey, baby~" Ricky murmured, burying his face into her neck which only made Raven chuckle softly, unwrapping the brown paper bag with a playful grin.


    "You can''t sit here and eat pizza all day, so I made you something," Raven said, promptly unpacking the homemade lunch which contained a sandwich, an apple, and a few other assorted foods.


    "Mmmmmmmh~" Ricky hummed, cozily snuggling up to her, wrapping his hands tightly around her stomach while Raven side-eyed the woman, who was glaring at him with unmistakable daggers in her stare.


    "So, is that one of your sluts?" Raven wondered, her eyes narrowing as they pierced Ricky as he shook his head, a slight smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.


    "Nah, that''s Morgana Le Fay, the chick from the fairy tales," Ricky promptly revealed while Raven had a dawning moment as she glanced back at the woman.


    "Really? That''s you, Morgana?" Raven asked, realizing the stink eye wasn''t aimed at Ricky but at her as she smirked, her gaze turning even more pointed.


    "You know her?" Ricky perked up, asking with a surprised expression as Raven slightly tucked some loose strands of orange hair around her blue ear.


    "Well, it was a long time ago, but I solved a case as Sherlock where she tried to possess a woman and kill the king," Raven said nonchalantly, her tone making it sound almost effortless as the casual remark only served to rile up Morgana even more.


    "You won on a technicality!" Morgana fumed from behind the barrier, banging her head against it in frustration, remembering how it was the most ridiculous way to have solved the case, and she couldn''t stand it.


    "A win is a win." Raven shrugged her shoulders, her smug face only infuriating Morgana even further.


    "But are you ready?" Raven asked, her gaze sharp as she watched Ricky devour his lunch as he paused, sitting back up, wiping his mouth before giving her a firm nod.


    "I thought I would have to do some things, but the mighty Alexander took care of that for me." Ricky flicked his head to the side, sitting up alongside Raven while holding her hand.


    "Wait, isn''t there supposed to be a really muscular horse here?" Ricky suddenly realized, halting his footsteps and looking around only for Raven to chuckle, patting his chest.


    Meanwhile At The Luciano Manor,


    "Good horsey," Danielle murmured, gently brushing the fierce and oddly muscular Bucephalus, her voice soft and reassuring.


    Snort


    Bucephalus snorted, clearly annoyed that this frail, weak, and small human felt the need to state the obvious.


    They sat beneath the shade of a tree as the sun lowered, casting a comfortable glow over them.


    Bucephalus turned his eye toward the small, weak girl brushing him with a gentle smile as he knew she couldn''t hurt him, which is why he closed his eyes.


    "That f*cking donkey better not pull some stunt-"


    "She''s fine, I already checked with Alexander beforehand," Raven assured Ricky, who already didn''t like that weird horse on steroids as she continued to quell his worries.


    "W-Where are you going?" Morgana asked, realizing both of them had walked past the doorway, completely ignoring her.


    "House shopping." Raven was almost giddy, revealing a rare glimpse of excitement before quickly masking it with her usual cool expression.


    "Oh, is that all?" Morgana rolled her eyes, seemingly completely uncaring about the entire act and yet, she still followed behind them.


    "Yeah, I''ve decided to move out of my pops house-"


    "Oh, so you still live with your daddy?" Morgana mused, hiding her laugh behind her hand as Ricky scoffed.


    "Yeah, f*ck you." Ricky flipped her off, failing to come up with a comeback and settling for a curse instead as Raven merely tapped his cheek, amused.


    "Come on, tiger, I only have a little bit before I have to go back to the foundation." Raven turned his head away, fully aware that Ricky wanted to hit below the belt, but she was more focused on checking out some listings during her lunch hour.


    Raven had completely settled into the idea of having a family with Ricky, even going to the doctor to confirm the most wonderful news, she was pregnant.


    It had been so long, but she felt happier than ever, rubbing her stomach with one hand while holding onto Ricky''s warm touch with the other.


    Everything felt like a dream, and she couldn''t help but look toward the future, where their loving family would grow.


    However, that didn''t mean she was ignorant of what Ricky was doing, about the family.


    Instead of pulling away, instead of being hesitant to the idea of her children growing up in such a life, such an environment, she was pushing deeper.


    Most women would''ve feared it, hell, most of Ricky''s own women feared raising their children in a world where loyalty was bought with blood and power was the only thing that guaranteed survival, but Raven wasn''t most women.


    She wasn''t just accepting the life her babies would be born into, she was molding it, ensuring it would be one where they wouldn''t just exist but last, for centuries.


    That was the difference between women who stood beside men like Ricky and women who were destined to shape the empire alongside them.


    Raven wasn''t content being a bystander, a sheltered wife who turned a blind eye.


    No, she was already cutting into Elias'' operation, trimming the excess, weakening his influence bit by bit to gain a solid foothold in this foundation that Ricky was building upon.


    It was all for one purpose, that singular, undeniable reason being that her babies would be part of the Luciano family, their bloodline woven into an empire that would be decided by the coming years influenced by Ricky.


    But right now, right here, she had his favor and that alone meant more than most could comprehend.


    But this favor wasn''t just about security or power for Raven, it was about legacy.


    Raven understood what that favor entailed; it wasn''t just protection but influence, security, and a claim to something greater.


    In this world, where men like Ricky decided fates with a glance, she wouldn''t be just another woman tied to a powerful man.


    Instead, she was ensuring her children wouldn''t just inherit his name but the empire he was seeking to build.


    And to do that, she had to carve out her own space, cut through the dead weight, and make sure that when the time came, there would be no question as to which of his children would take up the mantle, her children.


    So as Ricky begrudgingly got into the car, Raven gazed at him, knowing that she was actively tying her fate to him but when she looked down at her stomach, she simply smiled.


    "Hey baby, I actually wanted to talk to you about Danielle and-"


    "Tiger, I would never be spiteful enough to split up your daughter. I love you, and I love Danielle." Raven interrupted, her voice steady and sincere as Ricky smiled, his usual nonchalant expression softening as he looked at her.


    In that moment, as their eyes locked, there was an unspoken understanding between them, something deeper than words, something that tied them together beyond just passion or circumstance.


    Sigh


    "So heartwarming," Morgana scoffed, crossing her arms in the backseat while Ricky shot her a side glance.


    "Why are you even here, don''t you have some plans to be ruined by some heroes-"


    Gasp


    "How dare you! My plans are secure!" Morgana huffed, clearly offended, as Ricky started the car, slamming his foot on the gas after Raven shot him that look, the one that said they were going to be late.


    "Yeah, so secure in your castle that you''ve spent centuries failing, repeatedly. How''s that working out for you?" Ricky scoffed, his tone laced with disdain, which was exactly why Morgana''s face twisted in irritation.


    "Oh tiger, don''t berate the poor woman, can''t you see she''s already suffering enough?" Raven patted his shoulder, shaking her head as Ricky simply looked forward at the road.


    "I mean, stooping so low as to shamelessly follow you around, her dignity must be shattered by now." Raven feigned pity, but her eyes betrayed her, barely holding back a smirk as Morgana glared daggers at them.


    "I could offer you riches-" Morgana immediately tried to bribe Ricky once more, only for the guy to hold up Raven''s hand to see the three diamond rings and gold bracelets adorning them.


    "I have that." Ricky showed instead of telling, holding her delicate hand once more as Morgana scowled deeper.


    "Power."


    "Have that too."


    "Urgh, territory, notoriety-"


    "Have it, have it."


    Sigh


    "Listen Morgana, you''re hot-ow~" Ricky said, immediately referencing that smoking figure from his dreams only to be playfully slapped by Raven who frowned and although it didn''t hurt, he humored her.


    "Listen, I just don''t have any reason to throw myself at a stupid cause for no reason." Ricky surprisingly said, knowing that he wasn''t going to throw himself at another person''s problems since he wasn''t any hero.


    "You killed Dracula-"


    "That was f*cking different, he killed my bird!" Ricky roared, his voice booming through the car, making Morgana flinch before he snapped his attention back to the road.


    "Bastard killed my bird and a piece of sh*t who helped me out." Ricky''s voice dropped, his grip tightening on the steering wheel until it started to bend under his strength.


    A flicker of discomfort crossed his face as memories of Abraham and Henry''s deaths crept in, unwelcome and heavy.


    "Hey, it''s okay." Raven comforted Ricky, her touch warm as she rubbed his shoulder as he let out a deep sigh, the tension in his grip loosening just a little.


    "Honestly, Morgana, I really don''t care about freeing you, ''cause I''d do it if it meant you would go away. But then I''d make enemies of whoever the f*ck is part of Camelot and I''m busy right now." Ricky gestured with his hand, his pinky ring glinting in the light as if highlighting all his responsibilities.


    "Right now, I''m focusing on the Luciano family, growing it, and then getting ready to join the army," Ricky stated his priorities, making up for lost time so that next year he could train under Alexander before enlisting.


    It was ambitious, but Ricky wanted to make his mark on the family within the next two years before he would have to leave.


    He wasn''t nai?ve to know that once he was gone, even temporarily, there would be power struggles in New York, people testing the limits of his absence.


    That was why he was pushing everything, including himself, as forward as possible to maximize the power of the family as quickly as possible.


    Every deal, every investment, every territory was another brick in the foundation he was building.


    The Luciano family had to stand strong, even without him in the picture since if they crumbled the moment he stepped away, then he had failed.


    "Oh tiger, how could someone with no subordinates, no control, and no responsibilities understand you?" Raven shook her head, sighing heavily after making a slight at Morgana who had her nails digging into her palms.


    "Y-YOU-"


    "Oh, we''re here!" Raven interrupted Morgana''s tirade before it could even start, opening the door and clapping her hands.


    "Jezebel!"


    "Raven!"


    Both women excitedly screamed, rushing over and kissing one another''s cheek before looking at each other as if they were the longtime friends they were.


    Jezebel was the wife of a man who owned a highly successful real estate company, one that thrived on modernity and discreetly shady dealings, dealings that were handled by Raven throughout the decades.


    Contrary to public perception, however, her husband was a complete buffoon who barely understood the company he had inherited.


    The real power rested in Jezebel''s hands, a woman in her sixties who skillfully handled the operations with an iron grip masked by charm.


    Normally, one of Jezebel''s agents would be assigned to handle business, but for Raven, she made an exception.


    She knew how influential Raven could be, especially when she was connected to the man stepping out of the car behind her.


    It was a rare opportunity, and Jezebel was keenly aware of the potential for strategic leverage.


    "Oh Raven, it is so good to see you again, I missed you!" Jezebel ethically said, watching Ricky waltz to her side and wrap his hand around her waist as if it was his resting position.


    "I know, it''s been too long." Raven shook her head, showing disappointment that they had taken this long to meetup.


    "Then what about lunch, maybe tomorrow-"


    "Oh no, I can''t~" Raven voiced her troubles, pulling out her mini calendar as Jezebel also pulled out hers.


    "What about Saturday, noon work for you?" Raven asked, looking up as Jezebel scoured her calendar before nodding her head before putting on a smile.


    "Perfect, now, spill." Jezebel''s smile raised further, turning her focus to Ricky who was plainly gazing at her.


    ''I thought real estate agents were supposed to be hot?'' Ricky thought, unaware that Raven chose to reconnect with her for the exact reason that she wouldn''t be up to his tastes.


    "What do you mean-oh, Ricky?" Raven played dumb on purpose before realizing it, leaning her head on his chest before patting it.


    "What else? The word is that you met at the trial-SHUT UP!" Jezebel yammered on until her voice raised as if deducing the smile with Raven''s guilty smile.


    "C''mon, c''mon, you must tell me everything while I show you this beautiful listing." Jezebel pulled Raven away, linking arms with her as they walked forward towards the humongous mansion.


    Sigh


    Ricky let out a long sigh, his expression twisting into a frown as he felt the familiar distaste bubble up inside him.


    He hated being in situations like this, ones that made him feel trapped and out of place.


    In the past, he would''ve just bulldozed his way through, ruining things to escape.


    But this time was different since he knew how much it meant to Raven, and for her, he would endure.


    Despite his discomfort, he pushed through, standing tall and making himself presentable as they moved forward.


    "How pestering," Morgana commented from the side, looking down at Raven''s friendly interaction.


    "I get that it''s foreign to you, but people actually have friends." Ricky inwardly fist-pumped, finally thinking of a good jab, which knocked Morgana''s impassive expression into a glare.


    "I have friends!" Morgana yelled after Ricky who walked forward, huffing in place before looking around and realizing that she was all alone before stomping behind him.


    They walked throughout the house, Jezabelle really selling it, while Ricky honestly didn''t care what house they lived in.


    Unlike him, Raven meticulously nitpicked for the both of them, taking her time to point out details, from the layout to the fixtures, as if she had already envisioned the space as their own.


    "Now let us make our way to the kitchen, that was floored with an eggshell tile, soaked into the background of this beautiful-"


    "Excuse me, eggshell?" Raven suddenly stopped Jezebel, holding out her hand while frowning at the reflection in the tiles when she gazed down.


    "Yes, is there something wrong Raven?" Jezebel asked, wondering if she did something wrong only to see Raven''s expression turn from a slight smile to completely impassive at this house.


    "And not marble?" Raven raised a brow, her tone laced with disapproval.


    She wasn''t about to let her family home, where she''d raise her kids, be built with eggshell tiles as it had to reflect the strength and legacy she was already planning to build.


    "I''m afraid not-"


    "Jezebel, let''s go," Raven said, her voice cool and dismissive as she strode out of the mansion.


    Without a second glance, she dismissed the house entirely, her confidence unwavering as she made her exit.


    Ricky leaned against the back wall, taking a long drag from his cigar, his gaze distant as he watched Raven stride away.


    He honestly didn''t care which house she chose while following her casually as he shrugged at Jezebel, who was scrambling to catch up, clearly flustered by Raven''s abruptness.


    He had promised her a house, but the only thing that really mattered to him was that it had a pool, everything else was secondary.


    "This all cannot compare to-"


    "My castle, and before you say anything, did you know that I live in a castle~?" Ricky interrupted Morgana, mimicking her in a posh British accent, clearly annoyed as he exaggerated every word, mocking her usual spiel about her luxurious living situation.


    "But you know what, guess what I''m doing?" Ricky suddenly took a step forward, looking around then side stepping before a deep breath of the fresh, open air.


    "Walking all around, ''cause you know what I have? This cool new thing the kids call freedom." Ricky laughed right in Morgana''s face, the stress of the situation finally spilling out as he took it all out on her, his patience wearing thin as he watched her shut her mouth in defeat.


    However, unlike most times when Morgana responded pretentiously, this time it really stung as her usual scornful face softened, twisting into something far less confident, sad, almost wallowing.


    Sigh


    "That was out of line, and I''m sorry, but you''re kinda being a b*tch," Ricky sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose since he still wanted to sleep with her and with that apology, he turned away, making his way to catch up with Raven.


    I think it was at this moment that the entire weight of it all really hit Ricky, about how agonizing it was to buy a house with Raven.


    Following her as they went from house to house, hearing the same thing from her each time.


    "No."


    "No."


    "No."


    The times of him lounging around all day, laughing and drinking with whoever was around were over, replaced by his growing sense of responsibilities.


    It seemed like every day, every week, every month, was filled with so many tasks that they piled together into a tangled mess Ricky had to fix, but he was only human.


    The weight of it all backlogged, slowly chipping away at his cool-hearted fac?ade as he now stood before it all, feeling a little more worn out each time.


    It wasn''t just the tasks anymore, but the fact that he was starting to question if he could keep it all together.


    "Wow~" Raven gasped, walking toward the magnificent home as two towering pillars stood between two grand doors, each adorned with intricately carved lions.


    The detail was breathtaking, the craftsmanship exuding a sense of power and majesty.


    The entrance alone made it clear that this house was something special, a statement of wealth and stature as Raven couldn''t help but be impressed,


    Meanwhile, Ricky sat on the curb, collapsing his face into his hands while Raven walked forward, her heels clicking rhythmically against the stone path.


    He pulled out his third cigar of the day, lighting it with a frustrated flick of his lighter.


    The steady rhythm of the lighter sparked an odd sense of calm, but it was fleeting as this one vice was replaced by another.


    His cutback on drinking had led to smoking more, and now the smoking was slowly creeping its way back into his drinking habits.


    Rubbing his tired eyes, Ricky took a long drag, inhaling deeply, before letting out a thick cloud of ash into the cool air.


    As the smoke curled up toward the sky, Johnny approached slowly, his footsteps deliberate, almost hesitant to even approach him.


    "Johnny, I swear to fcking god, if you came here and all you gotta say is the runners aren''t getting along, I''m gonna fcking lose it." Ricky held up his hand just as Johnny was about to speak, his words stopping the other man mid-breath.


    Johnny''s mouth snapped shut, his teeth clapping together with a quickness that could''ve been mistaken for reflex.


    Ricky let out a haggard sigh after realizing that was the exact reason Johnny had approached him, rubbing his forehead as he leaned back against the curb.


    Plans were easy to form on paper, but the execution was a whole different beast.


    Ricky knew, he knew it was going to be hard, especially with new values that clashed from their familial values and rivalries that were never going to fade, no matter how much he tried to smooth it over.


    When two opposing forces were constantly tied together, sparks were bound to fly and Ricky was just starting to feel the sting of every single one of them.


    "God dammit, just get on with it." Ricky sighed, slicking his hair back and dabbing his cigar to the side.


    "Yeah, boss, the kids just aren''t meshing." Johnny sighed, rubbing the back of his neck as Ricky pinched the bridge of his nose.


    "The Italian kids are too ingrained in their family''s beliefs, making them feel like the mutant kids are scum. And the mutant kids, they''re just too skeptical, too wary of the Italians to trust them." Johnny voiced the tense atmosphere that was brewing under his watchful eyes, reporting it to Ricky with a dutiful approach.


    Changing ideals and beliefs wasn''t something that could be achieved overnight, no matter how much someone might want it, no matter how much Ricky wanted it.


    It was never a simple matter to begin with since convincing someone that they were wrong doesn''t make them just fall in line.


    People, especially those with deeply ingrained traditions, are tied to their pasts, to their families, and to the ideologies they''d been raised with.


    It was like trying to tear out old scars that had been etched into their skin for years as the effort would only cause more pain without offering a real change.


    But the hardest part wasn''t the push to alter minds, but understanding that beliefs, once set, were resilient.


    Convincing someone to shift their worldview wasn''t something that could be forced.


    As easy as people make it seem, it isn''t enough to present evidence or make a compelling argument since what is needed is time, understanding, and the ability to break down walls carefully, piece by piece.


    Something that Ricky really didn''t have.


    But in these situations, fear tactics or threats were never effective and people, these runners, needed to come to the conclusion on their own, slowly, through experience and gradual exposure to new ways of thinking, to their new surroundings.


    But even then, after all the effort you pour into this ideal of change, some people wouldn''t budge.


    Not because they didn''t see the potential for change, but because their roots ran too deep.


    It was for this reason that Ricky preferred to avoid older mutants from Elias as he personally understood how deep-rooted trauma could be and how much an adult could carry from their past experiences.


    The scars, both physical and emotional, had a way of embedding themselves into a person''s identity, shaping their decisions and actions, often making them resistant to change.


    But with kids, it was different.


    They were like clay, malleable and capable of adapting quickly to new environments.


    Kids were still in the process of becoming who they were going to be, and their minds hadn''t been set in stone yet.


    They could be shaped, molded into something greater if given the right guidance and opportunities.


    They hadn''t formed the same level of attachment to their old ways, their old traumas, and it made them more open to change.


    But there was no magic formula to force the shift since the key was patience, finding common ground where it existed, and knowing when to hold back and when to push forward.


    It wasn''t about trying to bulldoze through years of history; it was about navigating the complexities of people''s minds and emotions, accepting that growth was a process that couldn''t be rushed.


    In a way, it was like playing a long game of tug-of-war; pulling and tugging without giving up but understanding that sometimes, the best way to win was to let go for a moment and allow the other side to come to you.


    "Johnny, I''ve got too much shit on my plate to micromanage the goddamn lower levels of the family," Ricky snapped, frustration thick in his voice, holding back from taking it out on his loyal subordinate.


    "I''ve got paperwork, I''ve got my business, enemies creeping in the shadows, and my fucking woman to handle. I don''t have time to coddle those kids." Ricky looked up at Johnny, catching him biting his lip, nodding in silent acknowledgement.


    "We need to f*cking figure this out, now." Ricmy purposely said, including both of them in this decision so that Johnny could feel included.


    "Boss, I know but-"


    "No, I need progress." Ricky pointed the cigar at Johnny, some ash wilting off the end and falling onto the pavement below.


    "I don''t need status updates, I need results, and for them to become friends, then brothers, before family, in that order." Ricky emphasized, mapping out those runners'' futures for them.


    "Ricky~" Raven called out melodically from inside the house, her voice floating toward him like a soft command.


    Ricky exhaled a heavy sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose before pushing himself up from the curb as he knew exactly what was coming, but there was no avoiding it now.


    "Listen, the Irish runts are bad mouthing me a lot behind my back." Ricky suddenly remembered, turning back to Johnny as if realizing something.


    "Do you want me to take care of them-"


    "No, I want you to fan the f*cking flames." Ricky poked Johnny''s chest, smiling since Alexander always spoke about how people united under a common enemy.


    "I want you to create an event, f*ck it, spur one on if you have to. Do whatever it takes to get these kids bonding. And I don''t care if it''s through shared violence, just get it done." Ricky''s voice was sharp, filled with frustration and urgency as he needed something, anything, that would make a dent in the mess he was navigating.


    Time was running out, and without progress, all of this would spiral out of control.


    "Ricky!" Raven called out, her voice louder this time, a hint of frustration creeping in as she clearly wanted to show him something and she wanted to do it right now.


    "Baby, I''m coming!" Ricky called back, making his way toward the house as he paused on the stairs, looking back briefly.


    "I''m serious, Johnny. I gave you that position with promises attached, and to get to the next level, you''ve got to fulfill them," Ricky said, his tone firm as he gestured toward Johnny.


    The weight of his expectations was heavy on Johnny''s shoulders, and it was clear that the pressure was mounting.


    "I''ve given you money, power, and status, but the only way you''re ever gonna rise higher is with results," Ricky revealed, his words sharp and cutting while Johnny''s posture stiffened, the fear creeping in as he realized the gravity of the situation.


    Ricky had yanked him out of the unknown of his drifting position in the family and slapped him awake to the reality of what was expected.


    "Because if those kids don''t make the cut, neither will you," Ricky said coldly, turning his back to Johnny as he walked forward, leaving him standing there with his words hanging in the air.


    Johnny was left behind, the path ahead now more uncertain than ever and he stood stuck in place, unable to move forward.


    "It might seem unfair and unreasonable, but sometimes, you''ve got to pull a rabbit out of a hat," Ricky said, walking toward the door of the mansion as he paused before stepping inside, giving Johnny one last parting glance.


    "So get it done." Ricky then flicked the cigar to the side, stomping on it and walking forward while walking into the lion''s den.


    "Y-Yes, boss!" Johnny called out, but Ricky was already inside the mansion. Johnny kicked the ground in frustration, his steps heavy as he walked back to his car.


    BAM


    "DAMMIT!" Johnny slammed his fist against the steering wheel, his frustration not directed at Ricky, but at himself.


    It wasn''t that Johnny wasn''t trying, quite the opposite.


    He''d been pouring everything into these runners, but the results weren''t coming as easily as he had hoped.


    He''d expected the Italian kids to be the hardest to crack, but it turned out the mutant kids were the real challenge.


    Orphans who had grown up with a deep distrust of everyone, let alone kids their own age, they proved to be far more difficult to reach.


    The scars of their pasts ran deep, and that made Johnny''s task a hell of a lot harder than he had ever anticipated.


    "If I could just get one moment, just one f*cking moment," Johnny muttered under his breath, his grip tightening on the steering wheel as he slammed the ignition, the engine roaring to life as he drove off, his mind racing with frustration.


    "I could pull all those runners together."


    Meanwhile in a back alley,


    BAM


    BAM


    BAM


    In the fading light of a damp alleyway, a kid was held firmly in a full nelson, struggling against the grip as a group of other kids stood around, snickering and cheering.


    One of them, grinning with malicious glee, was landing blow after blow into the kid''s stomach, treating him like nothing more than a punching bag.


    Each hit left a dull thud in the air, the victim''s body jerking with each impact, gasping for air.


    The sound of the punches echoing against the brick walls, and the laughter of the group only seemed to intensify the humiliation.


    It was brutal, an act so devoid of empathy that adults could scarcely comprehend it, unable to fully grasp how severe the consequences of such behavior were.


    Kids, in their immaturity, often didn''t understand the gravity of their actions, seeing the violence as a way to assert control or fit in.


    But this beating was ruthless, fueled by cruelty and a thirst for dominance as the sound of fists striking flesh, of cruel laughter, filled the air until finally, the victim started coughing up blood.


    Only then did they release him, dropping him to the ground like a sack of potatoes, his body crumpling into an unceremonious heap.


    Huff


    Huff


    Huff


    "Think you''re Ricky Luciano, huh?" One of the kids sneered, crouching down to the young boy''s level as his bloodied face twisted into a hateful expression, eyes still glaring through the pain.


    "Think you can just walk into our part of the city without consequences, huh?" Another kid scoffed, kicking his stomach as the boy on the ground heaved out a deep, sickening cough.


    "Not everyone reveres that scum, and it''s ''cause of you that the housing prices in our neighborhood are going down, just like my pa said," the kid scoffed, his voice dripping with disdain but as he turned to walk away, he suddenly kicked his foot forward.


    The mutant kid''s face jerked to the side as the foot collided with his cheek, pain flaring through his skull as he lay flat on the cold ground.


    His vision blurred, and the sharp sting of humiliation cut through him as he watched the group of kids, his tormentors, laughing and walking down the alley, their voices carrying away into the distance.


    There he was, left alone in a puddle of his own despair, eyes half-open as the rain began to fall.


    It soaked through his clothes, mixing with the blood on his lip, and for a moment, he could almost believe he was invisible, just another discarded soul in a world that never bothered to look back.


    This young boy was one of the recruits trafficked into the Luciano family after being personally picked by Elias, Louis Hamilton.


    Louis, like many mutant children within Elias'' community, had his entire existence shaped by pain.


    The beatings, the resentment, the loneliness, it all fused into something that ran deep within him, beneath his skin, in his bones.


    Even at his young age, he was used to taking a punch and it was because of that reason he hated it, hated himself.


    And now, as he spat blood into the street, his hateful expression a mask over his frustration, scraping to his feet while looking at his own reflection in the puddle forming before him.


    However it wasn''t that he didn''t have a useful mutant ability, it was just that his past had become entangled to the very thing that would''ve given him power over those kids.


    His manifestation had come in the most brutal of ways, when he was on the brink of death, beaten almost beyond recognition by his own father.


    That''s when his power had revealed itself, through the beatings, through the pain, allowing him to escape the hell that had been his home for years.


    But that freedom came with a cost: Elias.


    The man had found him, brought him into his fold, and Louis had spent two years within that sanctuary, his body healing, his powers growing, but his mind still scarred from everything that had come before.


    And then, just as quickly as it had started, he had been trafficked into the Luciano family, forced into a new world he barely understood, surrounded by people with their own battles and their own demons.


    So as Louis limped out of the alley, blood still fresh on his lips, as he wiped the tears away with a fierce, angry swipe.


    He wasn''t just running from those who''d hurt him, running for the Luciano family, he was running from himself.


    "This damned city, this damned family."

 Chapter 161 - 156: Sprouting Out From The Mud

    Chapter 161: Chapter 156: Sprouting Out From The Mud


    Huff


    Huff


    Huff


    "This damned city!" Louis yelled, his voice raw with frustration as he slammed his fist against the wall, the only thing keeping him upright.


    His eyes burned, not just from pain but from the emotions clawing their way to the surface, ones he always kept buried deep.


    Yet now, with every aching breath, the questions gnawed at him, relentless and unyielding, as if the pain had finally torn down the walls he had built around himself causing these thoughts to burst forth.


    Why was he here?


    What was the point?


    Why should he continue?


    Why were people so cruel?


    What had he ever done to deserve this?


    The questions crashed over him, one after another, relentless and suffocating as they rushed through his mind and spilled from his eyes, trailing down his cheeks as grief threatened to pull him under.


    But what else did he have other than his life?


    It was that single question tore through his mind just as he considered taking a knee, surrendering to it all and giving up.


    Because in truth, Louis had nothing.


    No family, no home, no certainty of tomorrow.


    But in that moment, he had himself, and he was too damn stubborn to give the last thing he had up.


    So, the teenager did what he always did, picked himself up and kept moving forward.


    Limping down 13th Avenue, he took two rights and a left before arriving at what he called ''The Bunker''.


    Once a wartime relic, the old bunker had been repurposed over the years with its first remodel done by the Jewish mafia as a storage unit, then by the Luciano family as a residential space for their runners.


    It wasn''t much, but for kids like Louis, it was home.


    Sniff


    Wiping his eyes, Louis'' shattered expression hardened into cold resolve, because the only one who would ever know his weakness was his own reflection in the broken shards of glass scattered across the ground.


    "The f*ck did you say?"


    The words reached Louis'' ears as he pushed open the door, his gaze settling on the barracks as a literal line had been drawn across the floor, and a group of kids stood right on its edge, caught between both sides.


    "I said, ''why.''" Benny, the same kid Ricky had run into the other day, stared plainly at the older teenager, his expression unreadable.


    It was strange, unusual and maybe even a little concerning, but instead of waiting, Benny had simply left his mother''s home that very night, sought out Johnny, and ended up here, standing in the middle of this confrontation.


    "Hey, listen up, Blondie. Get the schmuck outta your ears." The head teenager, Paolo, jabbed a finger into Benny''s chest as he glanced down at the offending finger, then slowly looked back up at him.


    "Okay," Benny nodded, his expression calm and unwavering which only made Paolo frowned, clearly thrown off by his straightforward attitude.


    He glanced at his boys, who were unsure whether Benny was f*cking with them or there was something off with him.


    "Ya see that side?" Paolo gestured behind Benny, who turned to look as the other kids were huddled in a corner, their eyes locked on him with sharp, unwavering glares.


    However, if one looked closer, they''d notice the subtle, unsettling differences among them.


    One kid had sharp, jagged shark teeth visible even when he wasn''t smiling, while another''s eyes glowed with a reptilian hue, slitted like a lizard''s.


    "Ya see how it''s all covered in filth, full of mutant scum? We don''t go there," Paolo continued, his tone harsh and laced with disgust, giving Benny the rundown, his words piercing and horrid in their terms as the mutant kids scoffed.


    "Aye, you make it seem like we want normies on our side!?" The shark-toothed kid exploded to his feet, yelling at Paolo while the others rushed to hold him back.


    "THAT''S WHY I''M GIVING HIM THE RUNDOWN YOU F*CKING DUMBASS-"


    "THE HELL DID YOU SAY-"


    Suddenly, the two groups collided, their words fueling the anger of the other, which spiraled into a vicious cycle of tension and hostility.


    "YOU THINK WE''RE SCARED OF-LOUIS?!" The shark-toothed mutant sneered, but his words were abruptly cut off when his gaze landed on Louis standing at the entrance.


    "THIS AIN''T OVER!" The kid shouted at Paolo, his voice filled with fury as he turned and sprinted toward one of his fellow mutants.


    The others shot Paolo and his group one last, venomous glare before following suit, disappearing back onto their side of the line.


    "Louis, what happened-"


    "I''m fine, David." Louis muttered, though David, the shark-toothed mutant, ignored him and slung his arm around his shoulder, offering an unspoken support that Louis reluctantly allowed.


    "Don''t tell me it was those Irish-THOSE BASTARDS!" David couldn''t even finish his sentence as Louis'' face twisted in frustration, the interruption clear on his expression.


    The mutants all seethed, their injuries mirrored across their faces, while the normies smirked, their satisfaction evident.


    Every single one of these runners knew personally how much the Irish despised the Luciano family.


    But over the years, instead of challenging Ricky directly, they took out their aggression on the lowest levels, targeting those who couldn''t fight back.


    It was a cowardly display, meant to show their distaste without risking a confrontation with the real power.


    It was just that the normies controlled the routes that bypassed the Irish territories, areas where immigrants had settled over the years.


    A runner''s job with the mob is pretty clear and straightforward, they deliver.


    But what they delivered varied; drugs, supplies, messages, anything of use.


    It was the most basic and lowest level of the family, yet one of the most important, because everyone started as a runner, except Ricky, who always offloaded it onto others.


    Johnny''s runners were especially vital, covering a wide range of routes, with their significance amplified by Ricky, who insisted that all pathways be under their control.


    "You see that? They''re getting what they deserve," Paolo sneered, gesturing toward the mutants as they walked toward their side of the bunker.


    "They ain''t like us and cause of that we gotta stick together, take the jobs meant for the real family-"


    "I don''t understand," Benny said, glancing back at Paolo, who furrowed his brows, clearly frustrated as it seemed like Benny was an idiot after all.


    "Isn''t Ricky Luciano a mutant? Are you insulting him?" Benny''s words hung in the air, and a thick silence descended over the room.


    The mere mention of disrespecting Ricky caused even the mutants to tense, their eyes darting nervously.


    Louis, who had been limping over to the side quietly, turned his gaze toward Benny, his expression unreadable.


    "What did you say-"


    "It''s just that your words don''t make any sense since Ricky Luciano is a mutant so by hating mutants, don''t you also hate him?" Benny really didn''t understand, plainly asking for clarification with such a hollow expression that made not only his gaze unsettling, but his words.


    "Wha-no, it''s not that simple-"


    "And why do you let the mutant kids just deal with the fighting? They''re beating them up not because they''re mutants, but because they''re part of the Luciano family-"


    BAM


    Benny''s face was interrupted by a balled fist, his body tumbling to the ground as Paolo hovered above him, an enraged and fury-riddled expression plastered across his face.


    "RICKY LUCIANO WAS AN ITALIAN FIRST, HE''S THE ONE AND ONLY EXCEPTION!" Paolo roared, his voice echoing with the fervor of generations before him.


    These were the words his parents had hammered into him since he was a boy, the mantra that now shaped his worldview and his current actions.


    This was the crux of the issue within the Luciano family.


    It was a fact: Ricky Luciano was a mutant, and everyone had begrudgingly come to terms with that reality.


    Yet, the deeply entrenched Italian American community, rigid in their traditions and beliefs, coped by creating a singular narrative: Ricky was the lone exception.


    Ingrained values were like a river, flowing steadily toward an inevitable destination.


    You could try to divert its course, dig channels, or reroute it entirely, but the water always sought to return to its original path.


    This resistance to change, the desperate clinging to what once was, defined the family''s struggle with Ricky''s reality, and the problem he faced in changing the stream.


    Paolo''s voice, filled with conviction and a hint of desperation, was a testament to this internal conflict of not only his own, but his community as a whole.


    Despite the changing world around them, the child clung to his fathers beliefs, trying to reconcile the past with the present, even if it meant placing Ricky on a pedestal to preserve their sense of identity.


    Benny simply spat to the side, wiping his nose before standing and looking at Paolo, his hallowed eyes suddenly flickering with something wild.


    It was like a switch flipped inside him, the moment violence was inflicted, his mind roared for brutality.


    In the next second, Benny grabbed a chair, the laughter of the other kids ringing in his ears, but he didn''t care.


    His crazed eyes locked onto Paolo, and for a moment, it was clear: he wasn''t just a stupid kid, he was a wild animal.


    BAM


    The chair slammed into Paolo with a sickening crack, the teenager caught off guard as the momentum sent him stumbling, crashing face-first into the wall.


    Blood smeared across the surface as his unconscious, limp body slid down, leaving a trail of crimson behind him.


    Despite the cruelty unfolding around them, Benny didn''t falter, he didn''t even hesitate, but instead he raised the slightly broken chair again, the crazed gleam in his eyes intensifying.


    BAM


    Benny seemed unable to stop himself, his brutality surging forward once more as he swung the chair at another unsuspecting kid trying to stop him.


    All while the other teens, momentarily stunned at the blatant cruelty of Benny''s actions, were jarred awake with a realization.


    "S-STOP HIM-"


    BAM


    Benny swung the chair at the kid, snapping it over his back as the kid immediately crumpled under the force, with only the pegs left intact within his grip while watching him collapse to the ground.


    Immediately, the normies sprung forward as two of them tackled Benny to the ground while one prying the peg legs from his grip and the other pinned him down.


    The only problem was, as they shoved Benny''s face into the floor beneath them, they were essentially cornering him, cornering a wild animal.


    There was nowhere to retreat, and the only way out was to fight with everything he had, be it kicking, scratching, tooth and nail.


    "MOTHERF*CKER, HE BIT ME!" One of the kids yelped, holding his arm where Benny''s teeth had sunk in, the blood seeping out from the fresh bite as his teeth had dug into his very flesh.


    BAM


    It was then that one of the kids kicked Benny right in the face, his nose exploding with blood, and his vision spiraling into a haze.


    But despite the daze, his hand shot out, grabbing the kid''s leg as if it were a foothold into reality and locking around it with a vice grip, refusing to let go.


    BAM


    BAM


    "S-STOP, STOP!" The kid screamed, his voice breaking as he struggled to free himself from Benny''s painful grip on him.


    But Benny wasn''t listening as he was locked in a frenzy, his fist pounding down with every ounce of fury, relentlessly pounding into the kid''s leg, the world around him reduced to nothing but the need to retaliate.


    It was then that all of them, the normies, lunged at Benny, their fists landing in a flurry of punches and kicks, each one fueled by frustration and anger.


    The blows rained down on him, striking with all the force they could muster as his blood was starting to splatter around him like some sadistic piece of abstract art.


    However even through the one-sided beating, even when the kids were trying to hold him down and beat him into submission.


    Benny was frantic in their domineering hold, struggling with every ounce of strength to break free from the chains they were trying to force down upon him.


    Every movement was filled with a brutal determination, his limbs jerking in every direction to dish out a punch or kick, seeking any way not to escape, but to retaliate.


    The mutant kids, on the other hand, stood frozen at the sidelines, shocked by the sudden turn of events as their eyes flicked from one another, uncertain of how to intervene


    "Dammit, they''re gonna kill him!" Louis gritted his teeth, limping forward as James realized it too, and the other kids all paused, a sense of urgency spreading through them.


    Then, just a small exchange of words towered into an all-out brawl as the kids charged at each other, sloppily cocking their bony fists and slamming them with all their might.


    An entire hour passed before the fight was broken up, both sides too exhausted to continue, the tenacity unyielding as neither group wanted to concede but both decided that enough was enough.


    Now, with every kid bruised and battered, Louis dragged the swollen and bloody Benny away from the wreckage.


    Huff


    Huff


    Louis was hurting, every inch of his body screaming for rest, wanting to just close his eyes and give up when he entered the bunker.


    But beneath him, the very limp Benny he was pulling away, this psychotic, unpredictable kid, had been fighting this entire time beneath the dog pile of bodies.


    Almost unresponsive, Louis tried to check if he was still breathing before Benny''s hand suddenly jerked forward, tightening around his wrist.


    His only eye that wasn''t swollen shut locked onto Louis with an intensity that made even this mutant flinch, the gaze fierce and unwavering, like he was ready to keep going, no matter what.


    "I''m done. I''m not fighting," Louis said, holding up his hand to show Benny he wasn''t about to throw another punch as he huffed, glaring at him for a moment before slowly releasing his grip.


    "What a psycho," David groaned from the side, holding his side in pain as he looked at Benny with exasperation at the kid still having enough juice left in him to keep going.


    The normies all huddled back to their side as Paolo eventually woke up, his glare fixed on Benny.


    The mutants reluctantly pulled him to the side, protecting him from further harm to keep the situation from escalating further.


    "Louis just toss him-" One of the mutants whispered, looking at the hateful glares of the normies that seemed like it would spark another fight at any moment.


    "No way, we''ll get in trouble-"


    Cough


    Cough


    Benny''s bloody cough echoed through the tension, cutting into the sudden silence as his lone, uninjured eye locked onto Louis, struggling to gather his thoughts for one coherent sentence.


    "D-Did I win?" Benny whipped out, his words making the kids freeze as they all looked down at him.


    They wanted to respond, but the words never came as they couldn''t find a reason to deny him until they saw his gaze shift across the room, settling on something, or someone, that made them pause before slowly firing back up.


    "Yeah, you won so stop." Louis instinctively held Benny down, affirming him as the kid was about to crawl back into the fight, determination burning in his swollen eye that actually scared him.


    "Good." Benny then passed out, his body slumping onto the ground as Louis stared wearily at him, only one word escaping his lips.


    ''Why?''


    Night seemed to trickle through the window, the moonlight shining down on Louis who was staring up at the ceiling.


    Sometimes the pain of his injuries kept him up, maybe the pain of his memories, but tonight, the thing that kept him awake was the kid sleeping beside him.


    His eyes slowly turned to Benny, who lay there, soundly sleeping despite his battered body.


    Louis'' hand gripped the fabric of the sheets a little tighter, his gaze flicking back to the ceiling as he exhaled a shaky breath.


    It was strange, this kid, this beast, somehow finding peace in the wreckage that was this night.


    A warm memory glittered through his mind, cutting through the cruelty, the hate, the despair, and sorrow.


    It was a fleeting moment, but it brought him back to his mother.


    His eyes fluttered closed as he saw her smile, the soft whisper of sweet words that used to lull him to sleep.


    But now, when he tried to focus, something was wrong as he couldn''t see her eyes.


    The image was fading, slipping away like sand through his fingers and he just couldn''t remember where they were or what it felt like to be in her embrace.


    His heart churned at the thought of forgetting the only warmth he''d ever known and slowly, his eyes opened again, the faint sting of loss lingering as the room came back into focus.


    ''Why did god choose this path for me, why?'' Louis asked, sorrow glittering in his pupils as a single tear trickled down his cheek, wiping it before rolling over.


    Benny''s eyes flickered open, side-eyeing Louis for a moment as their gazes briefly met, and then, without a word, he turned his attention to the ceiling.


    His body relaxed, and soon enough, the steady rhythm of his breathing signaled he had drifted back to sleep.


    Louis stayed still, watching him for a moment longer before his own gaze returned to the ceiling, the weight of the night settling in.


    The next day,


    BAM


    "ROLL CALL!"


    Johnny roared, the morning dew barely clinging to the weeds outside as he kicked the door open.


    The kids, still groggy from sleep, were jolted awake as they rushed to the front of their beds, scrambling as Johnny stood in the doorway, his presence commanding attention.


    His mentor had always told him ''You train like a soldier and learn like a man'' and these kids weren''t men yet, but they sure as hell were soldiers, the lowest of grunts in the family.


    "What the-WHAT HAPPENED!?" Johnny took one glance at a kid, then another, until he looked at all the kids beaten up.


    "WHO WAS IT, WHO STARTED A FIGHT IN MY FCKING BUNKER, WITH MY FCKING RUNNERS!" Johnny roared out, walking the line as the kids all ducked their heads, unable to take responsibility until one kid stepped in front of Johnny, more beaten than the rest.


    "It was me, I hit Paolo with a chair." Benny wasn''t afraid of confrontation, stating the facts with blunt honesty as Johnny almost flinched at the sheer brutality of it.


    "Don''t tell me, are you Benny?" Johnny immediately sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose, already knowing that Ricky had sent him there to be a runner.


    "Yeah, with a ''y''," Benny nodded, changing his name just like Ricky had said which made Johnny give him a weird look but shrugged it off, deciding not to press the question.


    "Alright then, why the f*ck did you hit Paolo with a chair?" Johnny asked, already winding up his hand ready to slap some sense into the kid.


    "Because he insulted Ricky Luciano."


    Those words made his palm stop just shy of Benny''s cheek, recoiling it back slightly as his expression hardened, taking on a grave look.


    "What?" Johnny''s voice rose, his anger simmering beneath the surface as the man, ingrained with the notion that the boss was always right, couldn''t help but show a fury that made the kids around him shiver at the audacity of someone insulting him.


    "He said he hates mutants and they''re scum, so I asked why he hated Ricky Luciano, and then he hit me. Then I hit him back with a chair." Benny described the events plainly, Johnny wiping his mouth as a blood-curdling smile tugged at the corners of his lips, hidden beneath his hand.


    "Aye, is this true?" Johnny asked Louis, his gaze sharp, knowing the kid was a mutant and wouldn''t take Benny''s side without a solid reason as Louis nodded slowly, his expression unreadable.


    "Y-Yes, sir." Louis ducked his head, aware that lying to Johnny was a grave mistake since he despised lies more than anything else.


    "Then I''m guessing you got your ass kicked in a full-on battle, right?" Johnny sighed heavily, frowning, but Louis hesitated.


    "..."


    "Y-Yes-"


    "Why''d you stall? Why didn''t you just say yes when I asked?" Johnny nudged Louis, noticing the hesitation and immediately jumping on it.


    "I-I-"


    "Aye, blonde, why is he like that-"


    "The Irish kids beat him up." Benny, who overheard how he was beaten up, plainly stated as Johnny expression froze.


    "Why?" Johnny asked, his tone sharp as Louis shivered, his expression paling as he clutched at his pants legs, unable to meet his gaze, thinking he did something wrong.


    "C-C-C-C-"


    "OUT WITH IT!"


    "Cause of Ricky Luciano, t-they don''t like that me or anyone else runs for him!" Louis yelled, the words spilling out in a rush but instead of brushing it off, Johnny paused, mulling it over.


    Pacing around the bunker, Ricky''s thoughts echoed in his mind as he paused, nodding as everything slowly came together.


    "Alright, listen up!" Johnny yelled, turning towards the kids, who straightened their backs immediately.


    "There are two ways this goes down; one, I punish all of you. Two, all of you go down and teach them why you don''t speak ill on the boss''s name, on our family''s name!" Johnny instructed, backing up towards the door.


    "You get today off to decide, recover from your inquiries, but if no answer is given to me by tomorrow, then I''ll decide for you." Johnny''s words were cold, hanging in the air as he slowly walked out of the bunker.


    Only after the door closed behind him did they all heave out a breath, the tension finally breaking, as Paolo seethed in place.


    "WHAT IS YOUR F*CKING PROBLEM!" Paolo yelled, stomping over to Benny and sizing him up, his fists clenched at his sides.


    "He asked me and I told him-"


    "ARE YOU RETARTED, WHY THE F*CK WOULD YOU RAT US OUT, WE''RE FAMILY-"


    "But you said we weren''t," Benny''s words interrupted Paolo, his voice coming from deep in his chest as he stood firm.


    "How can you call us family when it only benefits you and you draw lines when it suits you? It doesn''t make sense." Benny''s hollow words left Paolo at a loss for them, each attempt to retort falling short, as if nothing he could say would fix the crack in Benny''s logic.


    "If I''m retarded, then you''re just stupid." Benny shoved Paolo away from him, the teenager stumbling backward as the other kids watched in stunned silence.


    "You can''t punch me in the face then ask me to get your back, it''s stupid."


    "You can''t say you hate mutants then say you like Ricky Luciano, it''s stupid."


    Benny fired off his plain words, cutting through the tension with no slights, no sugar-coating, just the raw truth laid bare for all to hear.


    "Everything you say is stupid, so I said the only thing that made sense, the truth." Benny''s words echoed around the room, and the kids fell silent, stunned by the brutal honesty that froze Paolo in his tracks.


    "I want power," Benny said, his voice steady, plainly stating why he was here.


    He needed to know why his heart beat like a drum on that day, why everything had led him to this moment, to this path, to this place, and he had to understand what drove him to take that unconscious step forward.


    "Ricky Luciano said he needed people who know how to follow and don''t hesitate to act." Benny stated the very person that was needed and with that, he walked toward the door, pushing it open with a quiet finality, his words hanging in the air as he left the room.


    He had literally just gotten there, nothing special about him.


    No powers, no extraordinary talents, just a regular kid in the eyes of anyone who looked at him.


    ''So why, why do you keep going forward?'' Louis asked, baffled, as he watched Benny push forward without any regard for his life, carrying the weight of so much pain, so much hate, with an uncaring attitude.


    He didn''t look back, didn''t linger on the past, he just kept moving, taking one step after another.


    "What the-WHAT THE!" Paolo shouted, utterly baffled, as he charged after Benny while yanking the door open, only to see the kid walking steadily down the sidewalk.


    "WHERE THE HELL ARE YOU GOING!" Paolo roared, completely shocked at this kid''s shrewdness.


    "To fight," Benny replied plainly, making a left as he knew exactly where the Irish kids hung around.


    "WHY?" Paolo yelled, but Benny had already turned the corner, leaving Paolo to huff in frustration and slam the door shut behind him.


    "F*ck it, whatever," Paolo scoffed, marching back to his bed, while the other normies exchanged confused glances, unsure of what had just happened or where Benny was going.


    In all honesty, the kids would''ve fought on any other day, but the wounds they had accumulated on their own were too much.


    Beaten and bruised, every one of them, normies and mutants alike, agreed it seemed psychotic to even consider another fight in their condition.


    Yet, despite all that, Louis stood up.


    "No, Louis, please don''t-" David immediately begged, trying to pull Louis back as the stubborn teenager started walking forward.


    "He''s gonna to die if we don''t-"


    "THAT KIDS GONNA DIE ANYWAYS!" David yelled, trying to knock some sense into Louis as even across the bunker, the normies all nodded.


    "HE LITERALLY WOULDN''T STOP FIGHTING UNTIL WE TOLD HIM HE WON, WHO THE HELL DOES THAT!?" David screamed in disbelief, actually asking not only Louis, not only the mutants, but even the normies who all wore troubled expressions.


    "I''M NOT ABOUT TO LET YOU GO AND KILL YOURSELF JUST CAUSE SOME STUBBORN KID DOESN''T KNOW WHEN TO BACK DOWN!" David yelled with a finality, walking over to Louis and trying to pull him back into the fold, into the norm.


    "We''ll take the punishment and apologize for his death, but you shouldn''t go-"


    "I''m tired." Louis suddenly swatted David''s hand away, turning to face the kid who was speechless at his words, his fist slowly balling up in response.


    "I''m just so tired of sitting around and waiting for things to get better when it only seems to get worse!" David screamed back, pouring out all his anger in this one statement, filled with all the emotions he had buried deep inside.


    "I-I-" Louis tried to say something but stopped himself, unable to believe he was actually agreeing with that crazy kid.


    Without another word, he suddenly bolted out of the bunker, his eyes steeled with determination.


    "I''m not gonna be a punching bag anymore!" Louis yelled, his voice filled with frustration and resolve.


    Tired of everything, tired of accepting the fate etched out for him as he rushed toward the path laid out before him, determined to grab the power that could change his life, that could change his fate.


    It was then that the thralls of desperation wrapped around the young child''s mind, pulling him further down the path Benny had already begun to walk.


    Louis needed to understand, needed to see for himself what drove him forward, just as it had for Benny.


    "Oh come on, Louis. LOUIS!" David pinched the bridge of his nose in frustration before suddenly bolting after him, with the other mutant kids exchanging looks before they too followed.


    "Aye Paolo-"


    "Save it, let ''em all die. Why should we care?" Paolo plopped down on the bed, massaging his forehead where a cut from Benny''s chair swing still stung.


    "We''re just regular joes, we can only do so much." Paolo''s words hung in the air, as the other kids lowered their heads and then, one of them asked the question that made Paolo swallow his next set of words.


    "B-But I thought we were a family?" The kid asked, voice wavering, echoing the words that had once bound them all together, the words that had shaped the mob into something more than just a group of thugs.


    The silence from this question pressed down on the bunker like a heavy and suffocating burden, pressing down on everything they had been raised to know.


    The normies stood there, each lost in their own thoughts, silently grappling with the choices they had made, while the mutants continued to chase after Benny.


    "WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS GUY!" David yelled, flabbergasted, his breath coming in sharp gasps as he ran behind Louis before turning the corner.


    Only to see Benny, pummeling a poor Irish kid into the very ground as the sound of fists hitting flesh echoed, mingling with the harsh breaths of everyone around them.


    BAM


    BAM


    BAM


    Benny didn''t speak a word, his fists a blur as they slammed into the Irish kid''s face.


    The kid''s hands tried weakly to shove Benny away, but it was no use; Benny''s fury was relentless.


    Blow after blow, the kid''s resistance faltered, blood spilling from his mouth.


    Then, without a word, Benny stopped as his fists froze mid-air as he slowly stood up, his chest heaving.


    The small Irish kid lay crumpled on the ground, choking on mouthfuls of blood, staring up at him with wide, shocked eyes.


    "The old abandoned field, by the Roosevelt orphanage," Benny''s voice was cold, sharp like a blade as he pointed at the Irish kid, who was lying on the ground, blood dripping from his lips.


    The kid, still trembling, nodded slowly, his red hair matted to his forehead with sweat and blood.


    "Tell them we''ll be waiting," Benny finished, his gaze unblinking while surveying the kid who hurriedly limped to his feet and walked off.


    Benny nodded to himself, turning around to find the mutant kids standing there, at a loss for words.


    He gave them a quiet nod, and they all responded with a slow, silent nod of their own.


    Without a word spoken, they followed him, their footsteps echoing in the stillness as they made their way to the old abandoned field.


    The air was thick with tension, each of them lost in their thoughts, but none of them questioning the path ahead.


    To them, it was just a baseball field, but if Ricky were here, it would be the place that had indirectly led him to Lucky.


    The place where it all started would soon be the place where it would continue.


    Standing at home plate, Benny looked out as clouds began to gather above the city, signaling that a storm was about to roll in.


    "You all have mutant powers, right?" Benny suddenly asked, watching the mutant kids exchange glances, hesitating for a moment before slowly nodding in unison, Louis included.


    "Yeah, but when we use them, Father Elias-" Louis awas aboutsay anything only for Benny to cock his hand back.


    Slap


    Louis''s head jerked to the side in surprise, his cheek stinging as Benny''s hand made contact.


    The other kids flinched, the sound of the slap lingering in the tense air while Benny''s frown deepened as he stepped back, his eyes scanning the group.


    "That isn''t Ricky Luciano, we work for Ricky Luciano-"


    "I KNOW THAT!" Louis snapped, shoving Benny away as he rubbed his stinging cheek, his deadpan expression slowly shifting into one of frustration.


    "Then why did you say Elias?" Benny asked plainly, his monotone voice laced with a curiosity that almost felt like mockery.


    "B-Because-.......it''s complicated-"


    "No it ain''t." Benny shook his head, seeing it from such an uncomplicated view that wasn''t abstracted by attachment or thought.


    "We''re in the Luciano family, we are under Ricky Luciano-"


    "And why do you call him that? Everyone calls him Slick!" Louis huffed, the other mutant kids exchanging confused glances.


    "We''re in the Luciano family, we''re under Slick," Benny corrected himself, his words deliberate and unflinching, as the others facepalmed at his blunt approach.


    "We came here because of Father Elias-" Louis tried to explain something that Benny would never be able to understand from his viewpoint.


    "But you''re staying because of Slick, right?" Benny asked, his voice steady as Louis was left at a loss for words, slowly nodding in response.


    "I-I guess."


    "Slick is the boss of the Luciano family, we are the runners of the family, and when someone talks bad about our family, we fight for it," Benny explained in a way that seemed almost unnervingly ordinary, but there was an undeniable purity to it.


    It wasn''t complicated for Benny like it was for the others as he didn''t see things through a two-dimensional or three-dimensional lens, he simply saw things for what they were, the way they were told to him.


    In that raw simplicity, that blunt truthfulness, Benny''s approach was something neither the mutants nor anyone else in the family had ever fully grasped.


    It was this purity, this lack of hesitation or complexity, that made Benny such an unexpectedly great grunt, shocking the mutants who had never before viewed things with such clarity.


    They had always wrestled with nuances, layers, and internal battles, but Benny just did.


    "Why are you like this?" Louis wondered, his eyes tracing Benny as the kid, who had just joined a day ago, already embodied everything his job entailed, everything Louis wasn''t.


    Benny, without hesitation, was everything Louis had struggled to understand.


    While Louis had wrestled with doubts, motivations, and questioning his place, Benny just was.


    There was no confusion, no second-guessing, just an unshakable belief in his purpose and in the family that was told to him, no matter how brutal or blunt the reality was.


    The simplicity of it was almost alien to Louis, who had been tangled in his own complexities for so long.


    How could someone so new, so ordinary in a way, cut through all the noise and just be exactly what they needed to be?


    Yet everything you weren''t?


    "YOU F*CKING LUCIANOS!" A teenager shouted, his face twisted in rage as a whole squad of kids rumbled behind him.


    They slowly walked over the hill, and the Irish kids stared at them, not seeing them for what they were in society, but for what they were to them, plain and simple, Luciano''s.


    They were outmatched 10 to 1, their numbers tripling the group in front of them.


    Yet, despite the wall they faced, one figure didn''t hesitate as Benny stepped forward, charging without a second thought.


    Benny rushed at the leader, not waiting for anyone to even register their presence, and Louis flinched.


    The mutant gnawed at his lip, staring down at his hands, his body, the thing that held his power, the very thing that only caused him pain.


    Louis valued his life more than anything, he didn''t like to fight, and he didn''t like to feel pain.


    So why, then, did his feet start moving?


    Why did his eyes lock forward onto the pain he was about to endure?


    Why didn''t he turn around to see if anyone was following him?


    What was driving him forward, into the unknown, into the fight?


    Why did he take that step?


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Louis roared, his battle cry echoing as he charged behind Benny and together, they sprinted side by side, racing toward the oncoming wave of Irish kids.


    The mutants stood in shock, momentarily frozen, but gradually, they began to stir and like a domino effect, the energy shifted, and it was David who finally took the first step forward.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" David roared, his voice raw with grief and rage, directed at those who had tormented him for something he hadn''t even chosen.


    But now, they weren''t charging as mutants, they weren''t charging after Louis, but out of retaliation.


    That growing feeling of persecution for being part of the Luciano family fueled their desire for revenge.


    When they took that step forward, it wasn''t out of the pursuit of being mutants, it was the persecution of being runners.


    Slowly, one by one, the other kids gathered behind the screaming Louis, their battle cries echoing into the night as the two forces collided.


    Taking the lead, Benny lunged at the leader of the kids, tackling him to the ground as the two sides collided like two tides crashing against each other within the storm of rain that poured down.


    The chaos was everywhere, the numbers swirling around them as the mutant kids fought the Irish kids with relentless fury, matching the tone of Benny almost instinctively.


    A fist was hurled at Louis, but instead of dodging or flinching, Louis stood still like a solid, immovable object, his body bubbling with a power that he had closed off, until now.


    For the first time in years, Louis unleashed his mutant power that was gravity increase: the power that allowed him to adjust his center of gravity so as to become virtually immovable


    Without hesitation, without any need to hold back any longer, Louis thrust his fist into the opponent''s stomach, the blow landing with a sickening thud.


    The kid staggered back, winded and gasping, while Louis''s expression remained cold and focused.


    BAM


    COUGH


    The force behind Louis''s punch was surprising, something far beyond his years, and it sent the kid stumbling backward before he charged forward once more, determined to retaliate.


    But it wasn''t just Louis as one by one, the mutant kids began to unleash the very powers they had kept hidden, tucked away and shamed for.


    They finally used the very things that made them special, the very powers that put them above these mere ordinary kids.


    Each time the mutants channeled their powers, it wasn''t just a means to win the fight, it was a testament to their inner strength, their unwavering resolve, and the desperation that had transformed them into the fierce, wild creatures they were now facing.


    Every punch, every surge of power was more than just an attack; it was a declaration that they would no longer be pushed around, no longer be seen as lesser.


    The Irish kids, who had once felt so confident in their numbers, were now suddenly pushed back.


    They widened their eyes as they were hit with the force of powers they hadn''t expected, one after another but still, they held their ground, forming a wall in the middle of the battlefield.


    The clash became a brutal stalemate, each side giving their all, neither willing to back down.


    But in that stalemate, there was a growing sense that the tides were shifting, an undeniable momentum that would either break the wall or bring everything crashing down.


    There would be no compromise, not in this field.


    BAM


    Benny''s head jerked to the side as the teenage leader stumbled to his feet, winding up his leg for a powerful kick.


    BAM


    The kick landed hard, driving into Benny''s stomach with brutal force, stacking on top of the pain from his already aching wounds, it was crippling which is why it was hard for him to even stand.


    But Benny, like a wild animal, knew if he couldn''t walk then he had to crawl, wrapping his body around the leader''s ankle, refusing to let go.


    With every ounce of strength he could muster, he rolled forward, his muscles straining, using his momentum to pull himself and the leader towards the very mud in which they were fighting under.


    CRACK


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The head teenager screamed in agony, his leg twisted and broken beneath Benny''s relentless grip.


    His rage exploded in violent, frantic punches, each one landing with a sickening thud as Benny endured the onslaught.


    "DIE, DIE, DIE!" The kid shrieked, his fists hammering down on Benny''s face, chest, anywhere they could land.


    Each punch was a brutal, ringing reminder of how much pain Benny was enduring, but it didn''t matter as he tightened his grip, refusing to let go, willing to push through the pain to break his opponent even further.


    "ATTACK, DON''T LET THESE IRISH BASTARDS BEAT THOSE F*CKING SCUM!"


    Paolo''s voice pierced through the field, shattering the stalemate that had gripped the battlefield.


    With a roar, he charged forward, running down the hill as the normies rushed all roared out behind him, chasing after his lead.


    The tide of the battle shifted in an instant as the normies slammed into the Irish kids'' flank.


    The balance of power had shifted, and the Irish boys, momentarily thrown off guard by the new wave of aggression, faltered.


    Louis seized the opportunity, his fist cutting through the air and slamming into the jaw of one of the Irish kids.


    The punch landed with a sickening crack, sending the kid stumbling back, his head snapping to the side from the force.


    All the while Paolo barreled into another, tackling him to the ground with a roar, while the rest of the normies swarmed into the fight.


    Now, it was the Irish kids who were now outnumbered, the fight tipping towards not the normies, not the mutants, but in the Luciano family''s favor.


    The rain poured relentlessly onto the field, the storm clouds crackling above as the dirt beneath their feet turned into thick, slippery mud.


    The ground became a battleground of slipping, falling, and stumbling, as rocks and debris were hurled with every move.


    It was insanity, but for these kids, it was the only reality they knew.


    It was the struggle, the pain, and it was part of the fight, it was a part of their lives.


    All these kids ever knew was to fight, against the way of life, against the persecution, and against the unknown that was tomorrow.


    And yet, despite everything, they stood resolute.


    It was then, when the Irish kids looked at the fierce faces of these runners, the brutal force that had once been turned against each other was now unified, focused on one singular target: them.


    The Irish kids outnumbered them, they were older, and even had the advantage of these runners being wounded beforehand, but even then, they could see the difference.


    The runners just didn''t stop pushing forward.


    They were battered and bruised, bleeding and stumbling, yet they just kept pushing forward.


    Every blow, every drop of blood, every tear shed only seemed to fuel their resolve.


    The fight had shifted; it wasn''t just about winning anymore, it was about survival.


    It wasn''t just Benny who had been a wild animal, but all of them.


    For so long, they had been shoved into corners, beaten and punished by circumstances that were never theirs to control.


    And now, it was the Irish kids who had to bear the brunt of their fury, the result of all the pain and resentment that had been building up for so long.


    It was unfortunate that they were the ones who had to face the lash of their release but someone had to suffer so that another could rise.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The head teenager screamed, feeling his leg snap completely in two as he was sent crashing back into the mud.


    The rainwater splashed all around him as he let out agonizing cries that sank deep, like his body slowly sinking into the mud.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    "G-GET BACK!" The teenager screeched, pushing Benny, who was clawing his way to the top, his hands covered in mud and blood, desperation driving every movement.


    "WHY ARE YOU STILL MOVING-"


    "BECAUSE IT''S NOT OVER UNTIL I WIN!" Benny roared, his answer finally cutting through the question that had lingered into this fight as his fist came crashing down on the teenager, almost twice his age, with all the force he could muster.


    BAM


    It was such a simple answer.


    BAM


    To such a simple question.


    BAM


    But they all now knew why.


    BAM


    Why it wasn''t over.


    BAM


    Until Benny wins.


    BAM


    Fist after fist, each one crashing down on the wailing Irish teenager, the impact reverberating through Benny''s tired body as his muscles screamed with fatigue, but he didn''t stop since it wasn''t over yet.


    BAM


    The rain poured down on Benny, his crazed eyes locked on the kid beneath him as the teenager struggled to push him away, but Benny''s fist slammed into his skull with brutal force, silencing his attempts.


    "R-RETREAT, RETREAT!" One Irish kid yelled, tackling Benny off of his friend before dragging the teenanger out from under his wraith.


    Hurling fist after fist at his new attacker, Benny eventually twisted away, slipping through the rain-soaked mud as his opponent faltered.


    Slowly, he rose, hunched over and breathing raggedly, his eyes tracking the retreating figures of the defeated.


    With the storm still pounding, Benny watched as the losers turned tail, their flight marking his hard-earned victory.


    The rain hailed him as its victor, drenching him as he stood above the chaos, his figure looming over the battlefield.


    The other kids, exhausted and battered, slowly turned their eyes toward Benny, the psychopath who had ignited this all, the one who had led them to this moment of reckoning.


    "Just why?" Louis huffed, finally asking the question Paolo never got to. Benny, without a word, glanced up at the darkening clouds above.


    "I did not come here to just lose, I didn''t follow because I wanted to sit around, I came here because I wanted power to win," Benny gave the only answer he could, something that was etched into his heart, etched into his life.


    He was such a weird kid, speaking about such weird things, and all of it accumulated into one single reaction from all the other kids.


    PFFFFFT


    "HAHAHAHAHAHA!" Louis couldn''t help it, his laughter bubbling up at the ludicrousness of it all, and slowly, the mutants joined in.


    Then slowly, Paolo couldn''t help but burst out in laughter, and soon, the normies started laughing as well.


    Although they were all brutal, divided, fighting for their lives and often against each other, at this moment, they were one.


    This was the very first time that the kids, both mutants and normies alike, fought together with no certainty of victory and yet, they won.


    Divided, they were so weak, but in that moment, laughter flowed as they realized how strong they were when they fought together.


    It was an obvious truth to see, yet it took so much to understand and one kid, driven by a desire to win, had sparked it all.


    This was the beginning, the first experiment that would echo throughout the Luciano family, shaping the future of an empire.


    From this moment, a regular mafia family would grow into something so powerful it would eventually swallow America whole.


    But for now, they were just kids, savoring the rare moment of camaraderie and laughter.


    As they gathered themselves, they walked back to the bunker, Benny still bewildered by the laughter that surrounded him, unable to fully grasp why everyone was so caught up in it.


    "Well, would you look at that?" Ricky chuckled from the side, crossing his arms as Johnny held up an umbrella for him, both of them stunned by the sight of the kids actually fighting together instead of against each other.


    "Good job, Johnny." Ricky patted his shoulder, and Johnny flinched before bowing his head a little, a slight smile creeping up on his face.


    "I-I got the idea from you boss-"


    "Oh, shut up and take the compliment." Ricky chuckled, turning away as Johnny quickly followed so that his boss''s suit wouldn''t get drenched by rain.


    "Ya did good, enjoy that." Ricky shook him lightly, and Johnny smiled, ducking his head at the compliment he''d never received before.


    "Will do boss, will do."


    10 minutes later,


    Ricky eventually arrived at the Luciano family manor, the rain pouring down as the workers took shelter, waiting for the storm to clear before packing up all of Ricky''s belongings into the moving truck.


    "So you''re really moving out, huh?" Lucky smiled from the doorsteps, sitting on one while trying to light his cigar, the flame flickering in the wind.


    "Yep-"


    "Well, can you really call it moving out if it''s on my clean dimes?" Lucky joked, watching Ricky plop down next to him and hold out his finger to light his cigar, the tip glowing as he took a drag.


    "Eat a dick, pops." Ricky nudged him, laughing as Lucky joined in with a hearty chuckle, the two of them sharing a rare moment amidst the rain.


    "If it''s too much I''ll pay you-"


    "Nah, all I ask is that you take good care of Danielle." Lucky waved his finger at Ricky, his tone serious despite the humor in his eyes.


    He didn''t fully understand Raven, but he had no doubt that Ricky, for all his faults, would look out for his granddaughter.


    "What are you talking about, who else is gonna babysit?" Ricky laughed, but Lucky''s expression didn''t budge as the deadpan look on his face made it clear, grandfather''s work was never done.


    "Hey pops, what do you say to a family dinner?" Ricky asked, smiling ear to ear as Lucky chuckled.


    "I''d say that''s a good idea coming from you."


    Slowly, the scene shifted to a large dinner table, a sprawling gathering filled with not only Ricky and Lucky, but his children, his woman, and all those who had become like family over time.


    The room buzzed with conversation, clinking glasses, and laughter as Ricky really took a second to look around.


    Some people believe family is only about the blood we share, but that''s not entirely true.


    Family isn''t just the people tied to you by biology, but those you trust with your back, your secrets, your fears, and your triumphs.


    It''s those who show up when it matters most, who would fight for you without a second thought.


    And tonight, as Ricky looked around the table, he realized this was the start of his family.


    It wasn''t defined by blood, but by loyalty, by trust, and by the unspoken bond that ran deeper than any vein ever could.


    This was the family he would build, the one that would stand together, fight together, and, when necessary, tear the world apart together.


    It was the beginning of a family filled with warmth, smiles, and the quiet promise of something greater.


    In time, it would blossom into one of the most ruthless crime organizations the world had ever known, one that would cast its shadow over all who dared to stand in its way.


    But right now, it was only the start.


    A seed planted by a grandfather with a vision, nurtured by a father who had cultivated it, and now, a son who would make it bloom into a towering, unstoppable force that even its mere petals, so vibrant and ever reaching, would eclipse everything around them.


    But sometimes, in the process of growth, petals had to break off, wilt, or free themselves to feel the wind.


    And one of those petals, that symbol of breaking away, looked at Ricky.


    When the dinner finally came to an end, Jake approached Ricky, his hand nervously rubbing the card in his pocket as he tugged at his shirt, a silent gesture of hesitation, before he spoke up.


    "Aye Slick, can we talk?"


    Author''s Note: Alright guys, the next chap will be the end of the arc and beginning of the next one which will be followed by the Q&A. Anyways, hope you enjoy.

 Chapter 162 - 157: Saying Goodbye

    Chapter 162 - 157: Saying Goodbye


    Earlier that day,


    Looking around at the city, once split apart and reshaped by the greed of others, all of it now consumed by Ricky, it felt surreal to Jake.


    The streets, once rife with power struggles and unseen wars of the underworld, now seemed to bow to the man who had carefully woven his way through it all.


    Everything within the tri-state area was held firmly in the palm of Ricky''s hand, the very same hands capable of conjuring powers that Jake had only ever read about in stories.


    Jake just couldn''t help but laugh, a sound almost void of humor as he marveled at how far Ricky had come.


    The same drunk kid from all those years ago, the same kid Jake had to carry all the way back to his orphanage with Eddy and Rocco.


    The kid who refused to do anything other than numb himself, unable to take responsibility for his own future.


    The same kid who only ever achieved things by accident, with his mistakes constantly drowning out whatever small victories he managed to scrape together.


    Failing time and time again, forced out of the only place he ever knew as home, and coming back like one of those stories people talked about, the ones that felt too good to be true.


    Then, before all the spectators, the ones who had surrounded him with their glances filled with expectation, had those very glances shattered beneath the man he had become.


    When Ricky came back, he didn''t just handle the pressure, he became it.


    Where once he was seen as fragile, a mere product of the circumstances that surrounded him, he now stood as a force, a diamond forged by the expectations that pressed down against him.


    Every misstep, every failure that had been counted against him, was now proof of his strength, of his growth, and it all culminated in the fact that he wasn''t that same kid anymore.


    The weight of the world no longer crushed him and instead he wore it he wore his past experiences with pride, like armor that proved he could withstand anything.


    And in doing so, he had shattered everyone''s preconceived notions of him, turning their doubts into reverence.


    Before becoming the man who now held the reins of not just the city, but the Luciano family itself.


    Deep down, Jake always carried this lingering doubt, one that perhaps Ricky needed him, needed him to do the things he couldn''t be bothered to do.


    But that image of Ricky; the reckless, high, and drunk kid, seemed to vanish completely when Jake looked through the window of Italiano''s.


    Watching Ricky, eyes focused, combing through the papers within the Italians'' vaults, looking through the window with a level of intensity Jake had never seen before or at least, hadn''t noticed until now.


    Ricky had grown up, and in that moment, Jake felt a strange sense of peace, realizing that the man who stood before him wasn''t the kid he had once carried home, but someone who had taken control of everything.


    It was a bittersweet realization, but it made Jake smile.


    With that smile, Jake turned away, walking down a familiar path, a street that led him to a certain person, the one who was currently dining on the dime of the Luciano family.


    "So, you finally decided, huh?" Gino, seeing Jake walking up to him, reluctantly pulled the hamburger from his mouth to speak,


    Jake pulled out the chair across from him, his face steeled and resolute, a stark contrast to Gino''s, who was already dreading the diet his wife constantly nagged him about back home.


    "Yeah, Gino, I wanna go." Jake''s eyes were serious as he gazed at Gino, who chuckled, reaching over to wipe his hands and then his face with a napkin.


    "You ain''t just gonna skip town without-"


    "No, I''m gonna tell him today." Jake finally made his decision at the last minute, while Gino just shrugged.


    "Well, I''ll be at the train station and if you ain''t there, then you ain''t there."


    It took a long time, but Jake finally decided that he didn''t want to be part of the Luciano family anymore.


    The decision didn''t come easily, but it was one he had to make as he''d spent so much of his life looking up to people like Ricky, trying to carve out a space for himself in a world that had always been someone else''s.


    But now, Jake felt the need to spread his wings, to carve his own path instead of simply following along in the shadows.


    The family, the power, the control, it all came with a price, and Jake had paid it for far too long.


    Here, in New York, entrenched deep within the family, it felt like he was suffocating.


    Drowning in his own self-loathing, constantly haunted by the mistakes and decisions he''d made, the things he had allowed himself to become.


    For the first time, Jake was truly thinking of himself.


    What he wanted.


    What he could be outside of the family''s grasp and it felt terrifying, but also liberating.


    The weight of expectations, of being part of something bigger than himself yet never quite fitting in, pressed down on Jake like an anchor.


    It was suffocating, dragging him deeper with every passing day but the one who helped pull his head above water wasn''t Ricky, it was Barko.


    Barko had been the one to open his eyes, to help him see what he couldn''t before: that he didn''t need to be anything more than himself.


    He didn''t need to be a cog in a machine, a puppet to the strings of the Luciano family, or someone he wasn''t just to earn respect.


    What mattered, what truly mattered, was the sincerity of his efforts as his worth wasn''t measured by how well he played a part, but by how real he was, by how genuine his actions were.


    As long as what he did meant something to him, as long as he could look at himself and say he gave it everything, that was enough.


    For the first time, Jake felt like he was finally seeing himself clearly, not through the eyes of the family or anyone else, but his own.


    And that was a freedom he hadn''t realized he needed so badly.


    Jake wasn''t as sharp with numbers as Meyer, nor as ruthless a mobster as Ricky, but he never needed to be.


    The problem was, for so long, he had fallen into that middle ground, the space wedged between their greatness.


    He wasn''t sharp enough, ruthless enough, and that feeling suffocated every ounce of confidence he had and it hurt.


    It hurt because no one wants to feel average, no one wants to feel like they aren''t special, like they don''t matter.


    Being around Ricky and Meyer only amplified that feeling for Jake as it was like standing in the shadows of giants, never quite tall enough to be seen.


    No matter how hard he tried to make his own mark, he could never escape the shadow they cast.


    And now, even with Ricky''s trust, even being invited to a dinner with the people Ricky cared most about, Jake still felt inadequate.


    The honor of it all made it hard to even look Ricky in the eyes, let alone tell him the truth, tell him he couldn''t stay.


    He wanted to, more than anything, but that weight of feeling small, of being too far beneath the surface of it all, had him trapped in his own uncertainty as the fear of being nothing more than a shadow lingered.


    "Of course buddy, but first things first, how''s it hanging?" Ricky slapped his shoulder, slinging his arm around him and guiding him to the side.


    "G-Good, Slick." Jake nervously said, the words stumbling out as the pull of Ricky''s presence tugged at him as it was like a gravitational field that made everyone around him gravitate in his direction, including Jake.


    "You all straight, you end up finding what you were looking for?" Ricky asked, looking at Jake whose neck shrunk at the direct question as they walked outside onto the backyard to talk.


    "About that, Slick, uh, that''s what it''s about, and that''s why I want to talk to you." Jake forced the words out, watching Ricky nod with a smile.


    "Sure man-"


    "Man to man."


    Ricky''s expression shifted, a knowing look crossing his face since in the family, when someone asks for a conversation like that, it''s never casual, it''s always a sign that things are about to get real


    "What''s up?" Ricky asked, backing up slightly as he studied Jake, wondering if he was back on the stuff even after going to such lengths to prevent it.


    "Do you need money? Did you get a hooker pregnant? What''s up?" Ricky asked, his tone laced with experience from his first life as he knew how annoying those situations could get, especially when the pimp finds out.


    The most annoying pimps weren''t the abusive ones, they were the ones who actually looked after their girls.


    Ricky remembered one who''d literally tracked him all the way to the lower ends of Cuba to demand child support.


    "Ha, no man." Jake waved his hand, trying to brush it off, but the words were stuck in his throat.


    That''s why Jake stood there for a while, struggling to find the right words as every time he tried, it came up short, and the silence slowly began to gnaw at Ricky''s patience.


    "Jesus christ, just f*cking tell me-"


    "Gino has a spot open to be his paralegal up in Yonkers!" Jake blurted, stammering out the words that made Ricky immediately surprised, and for the first time since they started talking, Jake built up the courage to finally look him straight in the eye.


    "A-And I think I''m gonna take it," Jake announced, watching Ricky grow quiet as the words seemed to settle in the air between them.


    But what made Jake anxious was that Ricky didn''t say anything but instead his expression slowly shifted from a smile into a plain expression, glancing down at the ground, trying to process what he had just said.


    "For so long, I felt worthless," Jake suddenly blurted out, unable to bear the silence any longer. He had to fill it with something, even if it was just the truth spilling out uninvited.


    "I always feel like everything I do is never enough, like it doesn''t compare to the guy next to me." Jake''s mouth was like a broken fire hydrant, a torrent of words bursting out in a steady stream that never seemed to stop.


    "And then I start to get these thoughts that I''m never gonna be enough," Jake revealed, his voice cracking as his anxiousness bubbled up, bringing all the insecurities he''d been hiding from Ricky to the surface.


    "This feeling of mediocrity just haunts me," Jake continued, his voice trembling, at this realization that just popped into his head.


    "And I feel like if I follow you or my bro Meyer, that I''ll be alright." Jake revealed, knowing deep down if he stayed here, stayed in their shadow, he would always be alright.


    "That I''ll never have to worry about anything," Jake said, almost laughing bitterly as he looked at Ricky, who was simply listening.


    "But if I do stay I know I''ll never be anything, I''ll never be the man I want to be."


    Jake felt the sting of tears threatening to spill after saying those words as the truth settled heavily in his chest, that for everything he had been given, he could never be more than the scraps handed over to him.


    It all crushed him, and he couldn''t escape the feeling that no matter how hard he tried, he''d always be stuck in someone else''s shadow.


    It was that exact desperation that pushed him to want to step into the light for the first time, to break free from the comfort zone that had held him captive for so long.


    The fear of staying in the same place, of always feeling like an afterthought, was finally greater than the fear of the unknown


    "And for a long time, I was just okay with that, understanding it was my place. But when I saw Marshall that day-......damn." Jake chuckled softly, wiping his eyes as he looked up at the night sky, the memory washing over him.


    That moment, that scene in the supreme court, had shaken him to his core, and he could still feel those raw emotions as if it had just happened.


    "I just thought he was some negro with a briefcase, and with all that education, I wondered what it could ever do for someone like him, for anyone." Jake''s voice spoke of his past misconceptions, his eyes distant as if the memory still haunted him.


    "I''ve seen people like him before. The same people that come into your life Slick, then leave to live one of their own." Jake''s voice softened, looking back down as the single passing side character of Marshall made him question everything he thought he knew.


    "But Marshall didn''t feel like a passing face to me, he just felt so real." Jake chuckled, a hint of disbelief in his voice, knowing it might sound stupid to most but to him, it was the truth, Marshall had shaken something deep inside him, something he hadn''t known was there.


    "The way he spoke, commanded that f*cking courtroom, just captured your breath, man, it captured my breath." Jake''s voice grew passionate, his steps quickening as he paced around, retelling the scene to Ricky as if he hadn''t been there.


    "It was like, in that moment, he wasn''t just someone who came and went in your life, but his own person." Jake said, trying to explain the innate feeling he had of being a side character to Ricky, the main character.


    "And I just sat there, wondering how someone other than you or Meyer, someone outside our world, could just command my attention like that." Jake''s voice was tinged with disbelief, as if the idea itself still felt strange to him.


    "It was then that I realized, Slick, that I''ve only known the people around you." Jake''s voice grew quieter, as if admitting it to himself for the first time.


    "Watching, from what feels like a distance, how everyone around me is walking their own path, but I just feel-f*ck," Jake cursed, frustration clouding his expression as he struggled to find the right words, taking a deep breath before mustering another try.


    "I just feel that I can''t keep up, that I keep falling behind while you always have to look back to help me catch up." Jake continued, his voice heavier now, a raw honesty in his words.


    "And I tried to stand out with Roco and Eddy, but, uh, I think part of me knew it too." Jake bit his lip at those names, trying to stop his head from ducking to the ground, the shame creeping up on him.


    "When I look-"


    SIGH


    Jake sighed, holding his forehead as the memory of his friend''s death hit him all over again as he had to steady himself, taking a deep breath before heaved out a sigh and tried to continue.


    "With everything going on in the world, with my problems, and my addiction, I just want to be able to stand up for myself." Jake looked up at Ricky, his voice steady but filled with vulnerability.


    "I don''t want you or my brother to keep looking back to see if I''m okay, I wanna-......I just wanna-"


    "Jake." Ricky''s words finally broke through the silence, and it was then that Jake unraveled, collapsing into the mess of his thoughts before crumpling onto a nearby seat as he buried his face in his hands.


    Ricky slowly walked over, taking a seat next to him, and placed a hand on his shoulder, grounding him in the moment.


    "I know you''ve been having a tough time and I know I haven''t made it easy on you." Ricky smiled, shaking him a little as most of his troubles could be traced back to him.


    "But Jake, you''re my friend, damn, you''re probably even my oldest friend." Ricky realized with a chuckle, looking down at him with real, genuine sincerity.


    "Even now, man, it means a lot that you''ve followed me this far, to this very point." Ricky rubbed the back of his neck, not really good with this touchy-feely stuff, but knowing that right now, Jake just needed his friend Ricky, not Slick.


    "But if going on puts you in this state, makes you feel this way, f*ck man, I just wish you would''ve come to me sooner." Ricky honestly said, looking at Jake, who was slowly regaining himself.


    "Y''know because at the end of the day, you''re my friend."


    In the end, Ricky honestly appreciated the friendship he had with Jake and although it had its bumps, what friendship didn''t?


    True friends aren''t on cruise control, they make it a loud ride but you enjoy it, because the real ones always stay by you, even when it hurts.


    People go their whole lives without having a true friend, but Ricky was lucky enough to have a bunch of them, and right now, one was standing right in front of him, hurting.


    For a long time, Jake had put up with Ricky''s pain, trying to help ease the load and now, it was Ricky''s turn to return the favor.


    "You''re free, Jake."


    Ricky always felt like he''d messed up Jake''s life, wrecking it like he was an innocent bystander caught in the wreckage of his actions, forcing him into this journey alongside him.


    But in this moment, I think Ricky realized something important, he realized Jake needed to heal, on his own.


    "If, uh, if you want to be a paralegal, a lawyer, or even if you want to be a f*cking mailman, I want that for you," Ricky said, essentially releasing Jake from the family, from its clutches, cutting the bind that had been holding him down so he could finally fly.


    "So you''re free, ain''t nobody gonna stop you from leaving, and you can finally live the life you need to," Ricky said, patting Jake''s shoulder as the latter balled his fists in his hands since even he knew that it wasn''t an easy matter..


    You couldn''t just leave the family.


    Not without a damn good excuse, and by good, that usually meant being crippled or dead.


    Once you were in, you were in for life, an unwritten rule everyone knew but rarely spoke aloud.


    This bond was forged in blood, loyalty, and the kind of trust that came with shared risks and dangers.


    The family wasn''t just a group; it was a way of life, one you couldn''t easily walk away from without facing consequences.


    Yet, Ricky was just releasing him like it was nothing.


    "When are you leaving?" Ricky asked, smiling ear to ear while looking at this little crybaby before him.


    Sniff


    "T-Tonight." Jake rubbed his eyes, revealing that he had waited until the very last second which only served to make Ricky flinch.


    "Dude, are you gonna miss your train or bus or whatever?" Ricky asked genuinely, watching Jake let out a hearty laugh before shaking his head.


    "No man, it leaves in an hour." Jake smiled, looking at Ricky with a grin that carried nothing but goodbyes.


    "Then come on, let me walk you down."


    Jake had already packed, his luggage sitting neatly in the back of his car, but instead of driving, they just walked.


    It felt easier that way, no distractions, no noise but just the two of them, side by side, moving through the familiar streets.


    They talked, drifting through memories as though they were threads, reconnecting the past to the present.


    Old Cricket Bridge, where they''d spent hours, running wild like kids who had all the time in the world.


    The streets they''d run down, the ones that once seemed endless, but now felt like the backdrop to everything they''d been through.


    The day Ricky had left and what had happened to Jake in his absence, how hard it had been, for the both of them.


    The conversation wasn''t rushed, it was just the kind of reflection they needed, letting all of those years sit between them, without words needing to fill every gap.


    They''d been through so much together and without each other, and sometimes, just walking beside each other, was enough to remind them of how far they''d come.


    They had both changed, grown into different versions of themselves, and now, standing at the train platform, it felt like they were on two distinct paths.


    Paths that had once been parallel but now stretched out into separate directions.


    It was such a strange feeling, knowing that this moment marked a departure, both physically and in every other way.


    So when their feet landed on the platform just before the train headed to Yonkers, the sound of its engine rumbling through the air, signaling the inevitable.


    The noise, the rush of people, the soft clink of wheels on tracks, it all felt so distant, almost like a passing dream.


    Jake stood there, his bag slung over his shoulder, smiling at the decision he had made, and the weight of what he was leaving behind.


    Ricky stood beside him, the silence between them heavy with unspoken things but also smiling as the old version of them, the ones who ran in those streets together, who shared everything, was slowly fading.


    What lay ahead for both of them was unclear, but it was their own now.


    "Aye, Gino, take care of him now!" Ricky yelled, his voice cutting through the noise of the train station.


    Gino, standing off to the side, turned toward Ricky, a grin spreading across his face as he buckled out a laugh, shaking his head.


    "Don''t worry, Slick, I got it!" Gino laughed, his voice filled with a mix of confidence and humor as he waved Jake forward.


    Jake shot a final glance at Ricky, then nodded at Gino, feeling the pull of the unknown but oddly at ease.


    With each step forward, this pressing feeling of his past started to lift, just a little.


    Gino fell into step beside him, patting his back and walking ahead into the train as a silent reassurance.


    The moment felt strangely final, but also like a new beginning.


    The air around them buzzed with the hum of the city, the footsteps echoing down the platform, and Jake realized that no matter what, he was always going to leave something behind.


    What mattered now wasn''t how he looked back, but how he walked forward.


    "Hey Jake."


    For the first time in his life, it felt like Jake was finally turning away from Ricky, as if the tether between them had snapped.


    Their paths, once so intricately intertwined, now diverged at this very point, completely separate.


    "You better do great things." Ricky chuckled, his voice a little rough, but the warmth in his eyes clear as he nodded at Jake.


    "Thanks, Slick." Jake''s voice cracked slightly, his emotions swelling as he gave a final, small smile as he turned to follow Gino onto the train, but before stepping fully inside.


    Ricky stood still, watching his friend leave, a feeling of both pride and something softer lingering in the air.


    Ricky had had so many friends in his past life, each one unique in their own right, but with every single one, he had just ruined them.


    Slowly, methodically, sometimes without even meaning to, but more often than not, with a childish attitude that made it easier to do.


    He didn''t regret it, not then.


    Each one had been a stepping stone into the continuously brewing f*ck up he had been, only there to be used by him so that he could selfishly abuse them, he was the center of all their misery and only would break off until they just couldn''t take it anymore.


    But this time, it was different.


    The train let out a loud cry, its engine roaring as it signaled its departure and Ricky smiled, a genuine, rare smile, as he watched the train fade into the distance.


    For once, he wasn''t screwing Jake up, he wasn''t screwing a friend up or holding him back.


    A part of him needed this, Ricky needed to see that it was possible to have people close to him and not completely destroy them, not rot them down to their core just to feed his own selfish needs.


    It was an ugly truth he never let himself acknowledge before: the relationships he''d forged in the past were often just vessels for his own ego.


    But now, seeing Jake actually whole, was what he needed to really strengthen his relationships with others down the line.


    Ricky turned to walk away, feeling the weight of the moment settle in but just as his foot hit the pavement, the backdoor of the train kicked open with a loud slam.


    "AYE, SLICK!" Jake yelled out, gripping the railing tightly as Ricky turned around, only to see Jake crying and smiling at the same time.


    "THANKS FOR NOT GIVING UP ON ME!" Jake shouted, his gratitude spilling out in those words, the only way he could express it.


    "THANKS FOR COMING BACK!"


    It was just a few simple words, ones that didn''t say much, but expressed everything Jake had trouble putting into action.


    When he was still on drugs, people had begun to see him as a lost cause, and the ones who always reached out, he pushed away, convincing himself that nothing he did ever mattered.


    While the world kept moving, he stayed stuck, isolated, giving up on everything.


    But it was because of all that, because of everything, that Jake needed Ricky to understand, understand how grateful he was that Ricky kept reaching out, no matter how many times he pushed him away.


    He needed Ricky to know how much it meant that this piece of sh*t had done everything he could for another piece of sh*t.


    Ricky just laughed, the sound ringing through the air, Jake joining in as they exchanged one last look.


    He waved until the train chugged off into the distance, separating their paths, for real this time.


    It marked the beginning of their separate journeys, but Ricky smiled the entire time, knowing that, for once, things had been different.


    Ricky wasn''t a good person, a fact that had been reiterated too many times in too many ways.


    But within that small circle of people he truly considered his own, a redeemable part of him shined through.


    In that circle, he would do anything for you.


    And Ricky was glad, deep down, he was truly glad that he did everything he could for Jake.


    Even if the world saw him as a monster, in that moment, he knew he had done something that mattered, even if that only mattered in his own little world.


    "Goodbye Jake."

 Chapter 163: Q&A/Critisms/Suggestions Part 3

    Chapter 163 - Q&A/Critisms/Suggestions Part 3


    Hey guys, the third arc has offically ended and as such, it is time for the Q&A.


    Before I get into it, I wanted to really clarify the significance of this arc.


    While it is true that it was mainly used for setting up future events, it was also about coming to terms with things.


    I feel like the second arc was Ricky changing, but this arc was about proving it.


    I think the hardest part about writing Ricky as a character is keeping him true to who he is at his core in that lustful, uncaring guy who cracks a joke in the most inappropriate situations , while still showing the differences.


    This arc was meant to prove that Ricky didn''t just begin to move on; he truly did.


    He confronted his past memories without running away, actively engaged with the system, and took full responsibility for everything he had always pushed aside.


    I also wanted to talk about what I don''t like about some stories and that is they always keep stringing along these characters and although it''s relevant to the story, I just don''t think that''s how life works.


    Man, the sh*tty thing about life is that friendships, relationships, come and go.


    But the really crappy thing is that it''s hard to hold onto one and almost impossible to hold onto both.


    People move on and ngl, I''m not afraid to literally kill people off or ship them away if it doesn''t feel like they''re needed in the story.


    If they''re in the plot, they''re of use and if not, I''m just gonna toss them.


    I don''t want to make these characters that I put so much time into and degrade them into just little chihuahuas that constantly bark around Ricky but I want to make them their own dawgs.


    But man, Jakes departure got to me a little and even writing this I''m a little f*cking sad cause I liked Jake.


    I liked how I wrote him and I liked how I built him up into who he was but it f*cking sucks that I just did it to ship him away but I think it makes the story better so I did.


    And I don''t know if he''s coming back, hell, he might just live out his life in yonkers so if you''re about to ask that, then there''s your answer.


    Glad you read my rant on the third arc and I''m glad you stuck around to this boring story of a decent smut fic, but I''m thankful that you didn''t quit on Ricky and are still reading to see what I''m gonna make him, I appreciate it.


    There are a few things I want to mention, especially since I know WW2 is coming up but the biggest thing is that war was so massive, and because of that, the specific arc will be just as huge.


    Like that''s when the marvel characters from all shape and forms are introudced and where the world builidng I''ve lorded over you comes into effect.


    For that reason I''m going to use the next two arcs to really build up to it, and I''m not going to spoil anything, but you can probably guess based on what I''ve already given you.


    Now for some questions on the arc:


    Did you feel like Ricky grew properly into the character you were shown promises of in the second arc?


    What did you feel like I did the best?


    What did you feel like I could''ve done better?


    What part of the arc really excited you?


    What part of the arc really dissapointed you?


    What character would you like to see more?


    Which character is your favorite?


    Which character is your least favorite?


    Was there a character you didn''t like before you just grew on you?


    Did any characters really sour on you?


    Then mirroing the Q&A from last time, which of these subjects just needs more improvement:


    Story


    Smut


    System


    Others


    And like always if you have anything else don''t be afraid to just say it but above all, I''m really thankful you just enjoy my story so don''t feel forced to respond.

 Chapter 164 - 158: New Chapter

    Chapter 164  - 158: New Chapter


    1 Month Later,


    Knock


    Knock


    Knock


    A knock echoed from the other side of the door, but Merlin, who had seemingly remained rooted in place since the last interruption, paid it little mind. His quill moved steadily across the aged parchment, inscribing careful strokes within the bounds of a scroll, his focus undisturbed.


    "Come in," Merlyn said tentatively as the door creaked open, revealing the very man who had been sent to survey Ricky, finally returning.


    However, as the man stepped into the so-called office, his neck shrank, and his gaze remained fixed on the floor, as if afraid to look up or even to the side as he moved forward cautiously, his posture betraying an unspoken fear. "Speak, what is your assessment of this Black Knight, this Ricky Luciano?" Merlyn asked, uncaring as the man fumbled out of his side a scroll before hastily opening it, his eyes darting to the side slightly before returning.


    Ahem


    "The Ordo Dracium has concluded that-" Assessment of Ricky Luciano:


    Personality and Behavioral Traits: Ricky Luciano shows a blend of charismatic leadership, ambition, and deeply ingrained recklessness. He commands loyalty through a mix of charm, power, and unpredictability, drawing people into his gravitational pull but often leaving destruction in his wake. His ability to manipulate others, even unconsciously, suggests a high level of emotional intelligence, but one that is often wielded selfishly and almost instinctual. Ricky Luciano is resourceful and adaptable, capable of navigating both the social and violent aspects of his world with ease. However, his need for constant validation and dominance implies an underlying insecurity, possibly rooted in a past where control was out of his hands.


    Cognitive Patterns:


    Selective Loyalty: Ricky is not without morals, he simply chooses when and where they apply. He is shown to love deeply but dangerously, with those in his inner circle receiving unwavering devotion, while outsiders are expendable.


    Deeply Indulgent: Ricky is prone to exhibiting his desires, particularly his lust, as observations have shown him engaging with a multitude of women.


    Impulsivity vs. Control: Ricky has moments of calculation but is prone to impulsive behavior. This tends to become sporadic when an event occurs and takes Ricky by surprise which generally tends to lead to retaliation more than actual deep thinking. Generally Ricky has been studied to retaliate two fold to any attack issued on him.


    Rationalization and Justification: He often justifies his worst actions under the guise of necessity. Ricky is not inherently sadistic, but he is morally fluid, adapting his values to whatever suits his ambitions best. He has no qualms about using people, yet paradoxically, he is capable of deep loyalty, but only to those he deems worthy.


    Emotional Profile:


    Attachment Issues: His relationships oscillate between possessiveness and neglect. Ricky is shown to be very protective of the woman he fornicates with but refuses to even let them near men he hasn''t properly vetted.


    Guilt and Detachment: While he has a history of using people for his own gain, an event has occurred with a close alias of his, Jake Lankey, leaving that suggests he is capable of genuine care for people who aren''t linked to him through blood but it''s rare and selective.


    Fear of Stagnation: Ricky has been observed to have reached a stagnated state but it is unclear as of yet if it''s internal or external in terms of power or character. But this has led to the adverse effect of his sudden need for movement, be it through expansion, violence, or personal reinvention.


    Pathological Tendencies:


    Addictive Personality: His relationship with substances and reckless behaviors suggests an impulse control issue, potentially rooted in a need to escape or self-sabotage.


    Mild Narcissistic Traits: He thrives on attention and respect, but unlike a full narcissist, he does experience self-doubt and regret.


    Conclusion: Ricky Luciano can be seen as a suitable candidate to spur a great enough threat in order to adhere to the revival of Camelot.


    As the words streamlined out of this gruff man''s mouth, Merlyn slowly paused his actions.


    His quill hovering just above the parchment came to a stop at the report before him that was more psychological than physical, which made sense given Ricky''s return to New York, where his powers hadn''t yet been fully unleashed or observed in any significant capacity. However, for Merlyn, his attention was slowly being drawn to the nuances of Ricky''s psyche which spoke of something very intriguing. "Give it here." Merlyn surprisingly showed the initiative, outstretching his hand as the man quickly placed the report in his hand.


    Much like any other influential figure that had lived for as long as he had, Merlyn had always understood that power whether it was mental, physical, or supernatural was only one facet of a person. What lay beneath was often far more telling. As he glanced at the report, the psychological profile was slowly being unraveled as more than just a mere snapshot of Ricky Luciano; it revealed the complexity of his nature that leaned towards inherent selfishness, the insecurity masked by arrogance that sought to prove he wasn''t weak, and a retaliation aspect of his personality that flowed like his morals in which where the tide was turning.


    "Why was I not made aware of this sooner?" Merlyn asked, setting his quill down as the man ducked his head.


    Merlyn''s gaze locked onto the man''s shrinking one before the full view of his office, the space in which he resided, was fully encapsulated.


    Only then did the man dare to shift his gaze, slowly taking in the room beyond the deceptively ordinary sight of the clean desk and the two bookshelves behind it. In an instant, the illusion that this was merely some office was shattered, swallowed whole by the grotesque monstrosities that truly filled the space.


    Bodies and limbs hung from hooks descending from the ceiling, their twisted forms swaying ever so slightly. With these deformed parts lingering all around as the coven''s fate showed they weren''t entirely sealed to death.


    Blood of different hues stained the floor, the air thick with the stench of decay and something far worse, something unnatural. The weight of magic, dark and corrupted, pressed down upon the room, the unmistakable stench of black magic poisoning the air.


    This was no ordinary sorcery, this was the magic of daemons, the magic that festers and rots the soul, the magic that has kept Camelot cloaked in illusion, allowing its people to revel in blissful ignorance, even as they walk upon a land teeming with horrors.


    Yet, it all had a purpose as every single abomination in this room existed for a reason.


    And now, it seemed, that purpose had come to involve Ricky.


    Merlyn''s gaze darkened as he regarded the man before him, the weight of something far greater than mere curiosity settling into his stare.


    "Have you conducted a proper threat analysis?" Merlyn gaze was wholly locked on the man, his very stare almost making this man fall to his knees.


    "Y-Yes-"


    "Does it reach the level of a threat to Camelot, to Britain?" Merlyn asked, looking upon this man who truly didn''t want to refute him but he had no other choice.


    "N-Not enough I''m afraid."


    Those words, the very same that had once sparked immediate disinterest in so many other candidates, were nowhere to be found in Merlyn''s expression as he gazed back at the report.


    If this was all Ricky amounted to, then Merlyn wouldn''t have spared him a second thought.


    Another ambitious man chasing power, another soul swallowed by greed and indulgence as there was nothing extraordinary about that.


    But that single trace.


    That connection, thin as a spider''s thread yet undeniable, to the Nethergods.


    It shifted everything.


    Now, Merlyn''s focus honed in on this singular man, his mind already weaving possibilities, dangers, and implications beyond the immediate report.


    Because it changed things and that was enough to make him care.


    "You said he''s the Black Knight?" Merlyn asked, his gaze flickering back down to the scroll as the man nodded, his posture stiff, hands clasped tightly in front of him.


    Merlyn dipped his quill into the ink, the black liquid clinging to the tip as he paused. A moment of silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken considerations and then, with deliberate care, he resumed writing.


    "Yes-"


    "You also said he''s prone to react to violence two fold when provoked, correct?" Merlyn prone deeper, his hands drifting across the scroll in such a delicate yet fast manner.


    "Yes, but Master Merlin-"


    "Then we''ll assist him in the gap," Merlyn said, his words carrying a dangerous premonition.


    The man''s eyes widened, his breath hitching as he processed the implication since assisting Ricky Luciano, someone revealed to be tethered to the Nethergods, was no simple matter, especially in a dimension constantly on the receiving ends of vast attacks by their forces.


    "Y-You wish to give him strength-"


    "No, I wish to enhance his threat so that we may have our greater good." Merlyn quickly corrected, making sure to not confuse the poor man who was struggling to wrap his head around it.


    "Take the ebony shield and ebony crown out of storage." Merlyn revealed, his orders suddenly peering over the desk much like his legs which slowly stood up as he finished writing something.


    "Activate the entire Ordo Dracium that has been collecting my materials as of late and send it all at the Black Knight," Merlyn commanded, his voice as calm as it was absolute.


    His hand drifted across the desk, his fingers brushing against a spare eyeball as the man flinched, his stomach knotting as the truth of the room settled in. These weren''t just the remnants of fallen warriors or slain beasts. The bodies, the limbs, the grotesque ornaments of Merlyn''s chamber, belonged to witches and warlocks as well.


    This was the nature of his craft as this certain veil of power required sacrifice, and Merlyn had long made his decision in using the parts of magical beings, be it monster or human alike.


    He would not offer his own people to the whims of death and instead, he reaped from the world''s outcasts, draping this supposed mythical city protection on a foundation of bones.


    His efforts had twisted entire factions that once served under the Church into those who now served the Round Table, reshaping them into his own instruments of war. Among them, the Ordo Dracium, a knightly order that had once bowed to divinity, now answered only to the will of the fated king.


    "Master Merlin, if he gets those artifacts then-" The man took a step back only for Merlyn to take one step forward.


    "Morgana will selfishly lunge at the opportunity to sway him since the set would be complete with the Chalice in her possession." Merlyn smiled, his figure slowly following this man''s departing one before his back hit the wall.


    "And if your words are true, the Black Knight, this Ricky Luciano, will feel threatened that I just unleashed an entire factorium that has hunted the witches for centuries onto him, and with Morgana''s inducement, it will reveal everything." Merlyn slowly grabbed the man''s hand, holding the eye above him as the sheer strength forced him down to his knees.


    "How they''re connected to me, how I get them to hunt witches and warlocks alike, how I''ve been killing that coven''s members for centuries all for my selfish gain, and I know it will strike a chord with Agatha," Merlyn continued, placing his hand above the man''s eye before sinking his fingers deep into it.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The man screeched, feeling his eye being slowly ripped out.


    "He''ll either ignore me or be forced to confront me, forced to eradicate the threat I pose toward the coven and him, forced to deal with me," Merlyn mused, his gaze settling on the man and his comrades as nothing more than sacrificial pawns as one thing remained clear to him.


    The end justifies the means.


    "Then we''ll see how he reacts, how he truly wields the power of such horrid creatures while Morgana scrambles to aid him for a throne that was never hers to claim and all while I wait." Merlyn then pressed the eyeball into the man''s skull, infusing it with a surge of mental magic, his expression curling into a kind, almost gentle smile, one that betrayed the cruelty beneath.


    "For his threat to brew."


    "Now, take care of my orders, or else you''ll wind up as my next subject." Merlyn snapped his fingers, erasing the memory of him replacing the man''s eye, the final moment of agony fading from his mind.


    The man, dazed and terrified, scrambled backward, his eyes wide in panic before he hurried away, desperate to obey the command or risk becoming the creatures he makes.


    He walked away, about to reveal his satisfaction, but Merlyn didn''t even bat an eye as his gaze turned to the crystal ball, always fixated on the same image. The image was a constant reminder of his ultimate goal, vision that served a greater purpose, a greater good in his eyes, no matter the twisted paths that led him there.


    "If I need to bear the sins, then I shall, but you must come back to become the beacon of light humanity needs."


    Meanwhile In New York,


    "F*************************CK~" Ricky groaned, his head collapsing into his hands at the sheer amount of work that piled up. It felt never-ending, a mountain that loomed before him, yet it was something different than he''d ever imagined. It was a different challenge, a different mountain, but he''d at least thought it would be easier since he''d already scaled one summit. But he''d overestimated himself.


    Ricky just really wasn''t good at this type of thing and although his intelligence had formed an aptitude that allowed him to adjust very quickly to the task, he was taking on too much burden.


    But deep down, Ricky realized the bulk of this new problem had to do with him as he was putting all this pressure on himself to live up to expectations, ones that others had for him. So many people expected so much, from the Luciano family to the Lucky Corporation workers, all eagerly waiting for his next move.


    Back then, Ricky would have shrugged these responsibilities off, messing around, living in the moment. But now? Now, he wasn''t trying to be a breeze, trying to flow with the wind and instead was trying to be a leader. A front that could stand tall against anything, no matter what came at him. But even with all the people around him, all the help he could ask for, it didn''t change the fact that he wasn''t proven.


    It was clear that Ricky had changed; that much was undeniable but the next goal he set for himself was proving that he truly belonged as a leader.


    However, despite the mounting work that usually left him with no time to train, Alexander had begun helping Ricky. The usually reluctant gerbil, who had never submitted to such things, was now making an effort to carve out time for Ricky''s training.


    Although Ricky hadn''t really made any effort on the physical side to continue his training, he was trying to not slack off.


    The only things Ricky could truly improve while doing paperwork were his mutant ability and the Necronomicon. The mutant ability was fairly straightforward, and Ricky was slowly getting used to the idea of mutating, focusing on the papers in front of him while using his powers to form objects on the side. Splitting his awareness was still tough, but he was getting the hang of it.


    As for the Necronomicon, he had been giving it his blood since after the first page, Tenebris Threadsm, he hadn''t put much effort into getting to the next page until now. But this training multiplied when Alexander''s effort paid off in freeing Ricky''s time for a whole two hours of training.


    Ricky wasn''t really pleased since Alexander was a bit of a hardass but nevertheless, started to pick up Chastiefol and the Ebony Blade to continue where he had left off.


    However, although it looked like progress was being made, with Ricky, over the course of a month, getting closer to understanding Chastiefol and mastering it, Alexander, especially, watched everything unfold from the side with a deep sense of internal conflict. He couldn''t help but feel torn, unsure as a teacher where Ricky''s growth continued.


    Despite the gaps in their training, something in the way Ricky operated stumped the gerbil.


    Ricky was unlike anyone Alexander had ever encountered as his power didn''t fit into a neat, conformed box, like controlled discipline like the swordsmanship.


    No, Ricky''s power wasn''t a single, focused skill; it was a mixed and chaotic jumbled mess, constantly shifting and evolving. Ricky''s powerset was unpredictable, able to pull a skill out of nowhere with almost no effort.


    But it wasn''t just the nature of his abilities that troubled Alexander, it was Ricky himself. The young man was annoyingly talented at nearly everything he tried, a natural at any task he set his mind to. Ricky could excel at something for a time, but the problem was that nothing seemed to hold his full attention long enough for him to truly master it. He would reach a level of competence, but that next step, true greatness, always eluded him. It was as if he kept circling around the edge of greatness, but could never push past that threshold, constantly distracted by the next challenge or skill that caught his eye.


    His power was as scattered as his interests; always in motion, always dabbling in new pursuits but never truly mastering any one skill or discipline.


    To put it simply, Ricky was a Jack of All Trades, but never a master of one. And for someone like Alexander, who had spent years perfecting his craft and building his own reputation, that uncertainty gnawed at him. How could he possibly train someone who seemed to have no fixed path, no anchor to guide his potential? Alexander had been a product of strict discipline, a singular vision that led him to mastery in his chosen domain. But Ricky was different, his success was more random, more instinctual, like a storm that couldn''t be harnessed.


    The truth was, Alexander was struggling to find a way to guide Ricky in any meaningful way.


    The tools he had used to develop himself weren''t equipped to teach someone like Ricky. Ricky wasn''t just a raw talent waiting to be molded, he was a swirling maelstrom of possibility, a power that could take any form yet wouldn''t. That kind of leadership required a delicate touch, something Alexander had yet to learn how to provide.


    And perhaps even more frustrating was that Ricky didn''t seem to want the guidance as he was so self-assured, so confident in his unpredictable path, that Alexander didn''t know how to intervene. For all his power and potential, Ricky was still figuring out who he was and Alexander wasn''t sure as a teacher how he was supposed to help him navigate that uncertainty.


    He would never admit it, but Alexander was stalling. The gerbil couldn''t figure out how to push Ricky to grow into something more than just a series of talents spread too thin. Yet, even now, Alexander knew he couldn''t just stand back and watch, deciding to pour all this side-linded effort into helping guide Ricky as a leader, something he had experienced personally.


    But being a leader wasn''t just about issuing orders and expecting obedience. It was about understanding when to step in, when to offer guidance, and when to let someone stumble through their own mistakes. Leadership isn''t simply about learning the theory of leading; it''s about experiencing the responsibility and challenges of leading firsthand. While books, mentors, and instruction can offer guidance, leadership is refined through real-world application, through the tough decisions, the mistakes, and the victories that come from being in the trenches, not just studying them. This was where Ricky began to stumble since leadership wasn''t something you could learn just by reading books or mimicking the actions of others. It wasn''t about following a blueprint; it was about growing through one''s own failures, the tough choices one makes, and the experiences endured because of it.


    Leadership, in this sense, is about making choices in the face of uncertainty, owning the consequences of those choices, and continuously adapting.


    "God dammit, I fcking filled this sht out wrong," Ricky muttered, frustration lacing his voice as he ran a hand through his disheveled hair, his eyes heavy with exhaustion. He stared at the paper in front of him, his mistake glaring back at him as Alexander watched quietly, frowning as he observed the young man''s growing frustration.


    The biggest problem Ricky was facing, ironically enough, was one he had witnessed in others or Jake, in particular. It was the overwhelming pressure to take on all the roles of leadership, to shoulder more than he could handle, all in an attempt to prove himself. Ricky had fallen into the same trap, pushing himself to the brink in his quest to be seen as capable, to prove he could be more than just a fleeting moment of potential.


    "Um, Slick?" Barko asked, sitting on the side with a guilty expression as Ricky''s hand gripped tightly, irritation bubbling up as he tried to focus on someone, anyone, was interrupting him, and he let out a frustrated sigh.


    "How much?" Ricky closed his eyes, already knowing why Barko was here, he had essentially become Barko''s personal wallet.


    "25 thousand," Barko muttered, his eyes lowering in embarrassment as he knew it was shameless, but one of his experiments had failed, causing another of his machines to be destroyed.


    "Listen, go to Frank-"


    "Slick, we got a problem!" Johnny rushed in, his voice urgent, placing yet another issue on Ricky''s already overflowing plate as he pushed Barko aside.


    "Those weird magic kids are being introduced but there''s another round of infighting since they don''t wanna be runners-"


    "Aye, Slick, there''s this official who crossed the line!" Frank said, stepping in behind Johnny, his tone sharp with frustration as Chores popped his head into the restaurant, looking equally concerned.


    "Hey Slick, one of the distributors is refusing to corporate-


    The voices all poured in around Ricky, his eyebrow twitching as he slowly crumpled the paper beneath him, something within him snapping


    "F*CKING QUIET!" Ricky roared out, the entire room immediately plunged into a heavy silence.


    Every word that wasn''t his own seemed to evaporate into the air as his command cut through the tension, leaving the group frozen in place, the sound of his anger echoing in their ears.


    The silence swirled around the seated Ricky, his head slowly turning to the four men who only sought to offload more problems onto him at that moment. More words, more numbers, more everything was all clearly getting to him as his grip tightened on the crumpled paper beneath his fingers, his usual cool slipping as the weight of it all bore down on him.


    "Ricky, calm yourself." Alexander appeared at his side, crawling up to the stacks of paper and standing tall amidst his anger that left the others speechless.


    SIGH


    Then, as if it had never existed, the anger dissipated in an instant as Ricky let out a slow breath before collapsing his face into his hand, his fingers pressing into his temples as exhaustion overtook frustration.


    "Can everyone just get the f*ck out?" Ricky wasn''t demanding, but asking in a weird way which wasn''t proned on from these four men who looked at each other and bolted out.


    "Ricky, you must relax-"


    Ricky slammed his fist onto the table, the sharp sound cutting through the silence as he stood up, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand before a tired smile crept onto his face which showed to be strained.


    "How the hell am I supposed to relax, Alexander? Just look at all of that!" Ricky yelled, his frustration seeping across the surface of his usually calm and aloof face.


    It was clearly getting to him, the responsibilities, as Ricky was finally feeling what it meant to bear the burden of an entire organization and Alexander stood quiet, ready to take on his frustration.


    "The paperwork doesn''t stop, and I just want to... prove myself." Ricky''s words trailed off as he recalled the same frustration Jake had felt all those years ago, the very same thing that led to his burnout.


    "F*ck~" Ricky covered his eyes, the exhaustion truly taking hold of him as he fell back into the chair.


    "If you are wondering, then know-"


    "That I''m not alone, I get it-"


    "No, what I am trying to say is that you are not even holding that much weight." Alexander merely raised his gaze, looking directly at Ricky, who met his eyes.


    "You are shouldering the fate of mere thousands. I''ve shouldered the fates of millions," Alexander boasted, looking down at Ricky since though he might not have picked up the quill, his word carried just as much weight.


    "Did you think it would be easy?''


    "Did you think it would get easier?"


    "No, it nevers eases." Alexander answered his own questions, telling Ricky that this burdening fate of leading never eases, not even for a second.


    "A man who follows another, will only ever be as great as the footsteps he fills in." Alexander continued, imparting a lesson onto Ricky while his small little feet paced around the stack of papers.


    "An army of lions will never be more than sheep that lead it." Alexander said, his words carrying the edge of the sword he pointed forth into battle.


    "They might be lions, but they will die as sheep." Alexander voiced, side-eyeing Ricky who listened and watched the small gerbil before him.


    "An army of sheep, led by a lion, however, will fight like one." Alexander halted his steps, looking upon Ricky who stared back at him.


    "Those sheep will die like lions."


    "Ha, are you saying my guys are sheeps?" Ricky asked, rubbing his tired eyes since he hadn''t slept at all the last two weeks.


    "I''m saying that right now, they will die like sheep." Alexander squinted his eyes, his words striking a nerve in Ricky.


    "What the f*ck, how!?" Ricky shot to his feet, looking down at Alexander who was purposely provoking him.


    "I''ve done everything asked of me, I''m trying to prove myself-"


    "A lion does not prove himself through the words of a scribe; he proves it through natural grit." Alexander interrupted, knowing that if Ricky didn''t leave to figure out what kind of leader he was then he would rot in this very booth.


    "You are trying so hard to be a lion, but you will never be one unless you act." Alexander didn''t believe his own words but spoke them anyway, honestly trying to get Ricky to take a break which worked.


    "I really just can''t with you right now." Ricky stood up, waving him off as he stepped away, desperate for a breath of fresh air.


    BAM


    Ricky slammed the door behind him, desperate for some solitude, and opened a portal. With a deep breath, he stepped through, finding himself at the one place where he could escape the weight of everything. He plopped down next to Rocco''s grave, the quietness of the spot offering a rare moment of peace.


    Placing a beer on both his and Eddie''s graves, Ricky cracked one open and leaned his head against the headstone, eyes closing in exhaustion. The cool evening air was a stark contrast to the constant chattering that waited for him outside this cemetery, but it was here, in this strange stillness, that he felt the most at ease. Normally, he''d speak to them, confide in the silent stones, pouring out his frustrations.


    But right now, all Ricky wanted to do was knock back a cold one and simply enjoy the whistling sound of the wind.


    "Ricky?"


    However, that peace was soon broken as even his place of rest was disrupted as Ricky tiredly opened his eyes to see Asterion waving at him.


    Sigh


    "Hey, Asterion." Ricky rubbed his eyes, wanting to be alone right now only for Asterion to walk over to him.


    He didn''t say anything but he was socially inept enough to see that something was clearly pressing down Ricky''s shoulders but instead of talking immediately, he simply took a seat next to him.


    "May I?" Asterion asked, gesturing toward the spare cans as Ricky waved his hand dismissively.


    "Knock yourself out." Ricky sighed, watching Asterion smile before reaching out to grab a can, cracking it open with ease.


    "Would you care to know the beauty of struggle?" Asterion suddenly asked, taking a sip of the beer can while sitting back.


    "Huh?" Ricky asked, feeling the words suddenly come out of nowhere as the minotaur turned to him with a smile.


    "The beauty of struggle." Asterion reiterated, his words only highlighted by the smile in which they held them.


    "Uh, sure." Ricky, looking around, sort of shrugged while leaning against Rocco''s grave.


    "You see, when there is no struggle, there is no journey." Asterion first clarified, chuckling at this statement as if it were more amusing than insightful.


    "The most beautiful part of struggle is that you get to make that magic, to make the story." Asterion continued, turning his smile upwards at the cloudy sky that showed grey clouds with no rain in sight.


    "The hardest lesson I ever had to learn was the patience of waiting, waiting for something to happen, for change to come when that change only occurs with oneself." Asterion seemingly spoke cryptic words, closing his eyes and remembering all the years in that dark cave.


    "I spent so long struggling that I stopped appreciating the struggle itself. I took the journey for granted, not realizing it was the journey that shaped me." Asterion opened his eyes, taking another sip of the canned bear and appreciating the froth of it.


    "The road we walk is uneven, filled with stones that bruise us, cuts that never quite heal and in the moment, all we feel is the sting." Asterionn said, rubbing his own scar that laid on his bare chest, ruffled by the fur that would only grow around it.


    "And those wounds, they pile up and you start to wonder if it''s worth it, why keep moving forward when every step is a struggle?" Asterion recounted, turning his gaze down at the small beer can in his hand.


    "I asked myself that question more times than I can count, and for years, I let the weight of it keep me still." Asterion''s words only made Ricky frown, looking at the talking minotaur who was trying to impact a life lesson onto him on his only break.


    "I don''t get it, Asterion, what are you trying to tell me?" Ricky gestured, knowing what Asterion was intending for but wanting to hear the conclusion of it all.


    "We all have our own path, our own struggle, but I think sometimes people forget to simply turn around, and really see how far they''ve come." Asterion gestured, looking back on his own path and very much admiring how far he had come.


    "Look at the journey you''ve made, the journey you''re on, and everything you''ve managed." Asterion said, resting a hand on his shoulder while getting to the main point.


    "And there is nothing wrong with getting a hand-"


    "God, it''s the same thing every damn time." Ricky stood up with a sharp laugh, running a hand through his hair as he began pacing. "Listen I get it, I know, but it''s cause I know all of this that I still don''t want to tell somebody else that I need help, that I''m afraid of f*cking up, and having to show everyone once again that I''m not good enough." Ricky sighed, struggling with the very fact that he was struggling.


    For the first time in his existence, he was dependable.


    People actually leaned on him, looking to him for answers and to anyone else, it might have seemed obvious, but to Ricky, it meant everything. It was proof that this second chance wasn''t a waste, that he wasn''t a waste.


    Instead of running away like he always had, he wanted to be the person they believed him to be, to be the roots, to really be that guy that everyone thought him as.


    But he couldn''t, not like this.


    "You think I don''t know I need help?"


    "Asterion, I don''t wanna need help."


    Ricky revealed, staring the problem right in the face but maybe a little too stubborn to act on it.


    "How long have I been the f*ck-up who always needs others to wipe his ass, huh?" Ricky asked, staring Asterion dead in the eye all while the minotaur was silent.


    Sometimes, life can seize control of your mind, twist it up, and leave you staggering, no matter who you are. It''ll mess you up in ways you never saw coming but the hardest part isn''t realizing it, it''s stopping it from happening. It''s keeping your hands on the wheel when everything''s trying to pull you off course.


    "God dammit, I just want to-"


    "I just want to have it all together." Ricky laughed, heaivng out a deeper sigh after that as Asterion ducked his head.


    "I was not always this strong figure, even when I was the forefather of Minotaurs I-"


    BOOM


    An explosion of power suddenly erupted on the horizon, tearing through the stillness and cutting their in-depth conversation short. Ricky and Asterion''s heads snapped toward the source, their moment of reflection shattered by the arrival of an unexpected intruder.


    "Asterion-"


    "I know, go." Asterion nodded, his expression calm yet firm.


    "I know. Go." Asterion nodded, his gaze steady as Ricky extended his hand outwards while the other had Chastiefol materialize.


    BAM


    The Ebony Blade slammed into his outstretched hand, effortlessly cleaving through any obstacles in its path.


    ''NO, I WAS GETTING TO THE BEST PART OF MY SHOW-wait.'' The Ebony Blade went to immediately complain only to halt its words at this familiar energy, this familial feeling.


    "Lecture me later, we gotta go." Meanwhile at the edge of New York,


    "Sister Angela-"


    BOOM


    "SHUT UP!" Angela''s eyes were wild, a jagged ebony crown resting upon her head, while a matching shield of dark steel coiled around her forearm.


    Around her, a swirling vortex of grotesque black and purple energy spiraled, the dark influence of the ebony artifacts clearly overwhelming her sanity.


    In that instant, the coven materialized before her, Agatha stepping forward as the battle regime gathered behind her, ready for whatever chaos would unfold next.


    "BRING ME THE BLACK KNIGHT-"


    BOOM


    Suddenly, the quiet pasture erupted in a violent explosion, sending a mountain of dirt and debris into the air and amidst it all, Ricky appeared, his form clad in black shimmering armor. Angela''s lips curled into a sinister smile as she locked eyes on her target, pointing her sword toward him with a vicious grin, the anticipation of the coming battle clear in her gaze.


    "Black Knight, our patron Merlyn has ordered that you surrender the Ebony Blade and submit yourself to imprisonment for daring to collide with the wicked Morgana le Fey," Angela boldly declared, her words dripping with a cold sense of authority. While this was happening, her mouth curled into a cruel smirk, as though she were daring him to refuse, knowing full well what the consequences would be.


    "If you dare to refuse, then I shall take your head and then your sword," Angela declared, her aura flaring with intensity as she dropped into a battle-ready stance, her eyes locked onto Ricky with a fierce, predatory gleam.


    "So that guy from the fairytale sent you to kill me? Is that what I''m getting from this whole scenario right now?" Ricky asked, his tone laced with a mix of annoyance and disbelief. He glanced over at the faction before him, the one that had been hunting witches for so long, and couldn''t help but wear a strange expression. "Yes and-"


    "And he only sent this many people?"


    Author''s Note: Sorry about not replying to comments about the Q&A, I read them but I''m f*cking swamped. Anways I read them and I''m currently digesting the feedback so don''t worry. It''s just gonna take to repsond. Anyways hope ya enjoy.

 Chapter 165 - 159: Ebony Artifacts

    Chapter 165 - 159: Ebony Artifacts


    "And he only sent this many people?"


    "You''re kidding?" Ricky asked, eyeing the Ordo Draconum, the dreaded faction that terrorized covens worldwide as his brows knitted in a slight frown.


    "Seriously?" Ricky turned back to Agatha, who sighed and shook her head, already understanding his reaction.


    "They possess items that neutralize the field of magic within the area," Agatha clarified, explaining why witches and warlocks fell to seemingly ordinary humans.


    "I was about to say cause these guys don''t look like sh*t-"


    "YOU KNOW NOTHING!" Angela roared, her eyes wild as the energy around her, that pungent purple aura, swirled into a deeper, more intense blue.


    It was then that the crown began to take shape, forming a half-headpiece that curved over Angela''s head like a dark coronet of power.


    The once-unstable energy solidified into jagged, obsidian-like ridges, gleaming under the unnatural light that pulsed around her.


    At the same time, the arm clutching the shield underwent a transformation as black accents of armor slithered across her skin like living shadows, creeping up her forearm and solidifying into sharp, segmented plates.


    "YOU HOLD THE POWER OF GOD, AND YOU ABUSE SUCH DOCTRINES FOR YOUR OWN GAIN!" Angela screeched, her voice raw with fury.


    Her mind buckled under the strain of the cursed ebony artifacts, the strain of their power digging into her very soul.


    A searing agony tore through her naive and untrained consciousness, a cruel punishment for daring to wield their might.


    The dark purple and blue energy crackled violently around her, pulsing with a life of its own, as if the artifacts resented her existence yet refused to release their grip.


    "Oh geez, not one another quack-" Ricky sighed, almost slouching his shoulders at this fanatic before him.


    "FOR YEARS, WITCHES AND WARLOCKS HAVE KILLED FOR THEIR ADVANCEMENTS, THEIR VILE ACTS STAINING THE WORLD THAT THE TRUE KING SEEKS TO RULE! BUT NO MORE, I SHALL NOT ALLOW IT!" Angela twisted mouth spout acts of hypocrisy that went completely unnoticed by herself and her comrades while Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "WITH THE EBONY SHIELD ON MY ARM AND THE EBONY CROWN ADORNING MY HEAD, I SHALL DO WHAT THE ORDO DRACONUM FAILED TO DO BEFORE ME!" Angela roared, her voice reverberating with unnatural power.


    It was then that the truth struck as to why the Ebony Blade had remained silent and it felt an eerily familiar presence.


    "Wait, did she say Ebony?" Ricky immediately realized, drawing the connection from the weird colors accenting the revealed ebony artifacts.


    SIHG


    ''Yes, those are my siblings.'' the Ebony Blade heaved out a tired sigh in Ricky''s mind, its voice riddled with annoyance as it gazed onward at the artifacts


    "Uh, are you talking to them right now?" Ricky asked, his gaze flicking between the shield and the crown, then back to the Ebony Blade as the Blade sighed again


    "The only way for me and my siblings to speak is either if we are bound to one or through the traditional way weapons speak," the Ebony Blade clarified, its tone heavy with history that was filled with swords crossed.


    "There''s a traditional way?" Ricky asked, confusion creasing his brow.


    "Through combat, weapons show their intentions and their words through every strike of their wielder. It is common knowledge." The Ebony Blade sort of scoffed, subtly looking down at Ricky who scrunched his eyebrows.


    "How, the f*ck, is that common knowledge-"


    "HOW DARE YOU IGNORE ME!" Angela roared, her eyes blazing in a blackish purple light that was slowly corroding her sanity while she spread out her arms.


    "HOW DARE YOU NOT COWER IN FEAR OF GOD''S ARMY, THE ORDO DRACONUM, WHO WILL PURIFY YOUR TAINTED SOUL!" Angela bellowed, her voice trembling with fervor as he went overboard, her words spilling out like a torrent.


    Even her comrades exchanged uneasy glances, their discomfort palpable as the intensity of her proclamation filled the air as even for her, it was a little too crazed.


    Ricky wore a simple deadpan stare, his gaze locked on Angela as she boasted about her army as his hand slowly rose, and a green portal materialized in the air before him.


    But instead of stepping into it as he normally would, a series of figures began to emerge from the swirling green depths.


    The beings stepped forward one by one, their forms shifting and rippling with unfamiliar energy, casting long shadows as they gathered around Ricky.


    "Is this what I think it is?" Boney''s skull poked out, his hollow eyes scanning the scene before him as his gaze landed on the meaty humans, poised and trembling in front of his master, their souls ripe for the picking.


    "Move over, you oaf!" Chuck snapped, irritation in his voice while seemingly behind him and the portal.


    "Don''t waste a second in our grand master plan!" Chuck pushed past Boney, eager to play his part in Ricky''s plan, excited at finally being used like the pawn he was in his grand plan.


    "Good, GOOD!" Angela''s mind was completely shattered at this point, her voice trembling with an unhinged excitement, almost drooling at the prospect of battle.


    "I am finally able to slay the unholy being who dares use the Great Wizard Merlin''s creation!" Angela seethed, her grip tightening around her sword, knuckles white with intensity.


    Her eyes locked onto the Ebony Blade, burning with a rage that could cut through steel, as if she could already see her victory in the reflection of its dark surface.


    "Unholy? I''m literally a honorary bishop-"


    "NONSENSE! THAT IS NOT THE REAL CHURCH OF GOD, THE REAL HOLY LAND!" Angela screeched, her voice grating and sharp, causing Ricky to frown and absentmindedly rub his ear in discomfort.


    "Wait, let me guess, you know where the real Holy Land is?" Ricky asked, his laugh blatant and mocking, but his eyes involuntarily tracing down her supple form.


    He quickly caught himself, his smirk faltering for just a moment before he masked it with an indifferent expression.


    ''Damn, she''s actually kinda hot-''


    "CAMELOT, THE PUREST CITY AMONGST ALL THIS FILTH!" Angela roared, her eyes strained as if the weight of the crown she wore was too much for her mind to bear.


    "Didn''t see that one coming," Ricky replied sarcastically, tapping the Ebony Blade on his shoulder with a flick of his wrist.


    His eyes then narrowed as he noticed the Ordo Draconum slowly unveiling strange, unfamiliar objects, each one more unsettling than the last.


    "And we can relax with all the yelling, I''m literally right here-"


    "YOU-"


    "YEAH, ME! AND STOP INTERRUPTING ME!" Ricky suddenly snapped, his voice thunderous as his sovereign aura flared around him, crackling with raw power.


    The armored men flinched, taken aback by the wave of energy that pulsed through the air. The very ground seemed to vibrate with his fury. A certain man''s eye began to radiate a blinding light, as if reacting to the intensity of Ricky''s presence, his gaze locking onto the source of the disturbance.


    "Listen, if you guys came here to start some trouble, then f*cking bring it on." Ricky gestured to them, his eyes burning under the bags looming under his eyes.


    "I''m having a real sht month, and you don''t know how badly, HOW BADLY, I want to beat the sht out of someone," Ricky let out a maniacal laugh, almost begging, begging them to start something so he could just unleash his anger growing with each passing second.


    A few of the men flinched, unsure whether to respond or retreat as Ricky''s energy simmered, ready to explode at the slightest provocation.


    But before any response came, Angela laughed hysterically, her laugh echoing unnervingly through the tense air.


    "I didn''t come here to start trouble!" Angela declared, her back arching in a way that was far from graceful as she readied her stance.


    "I''m here to finish what my predecessors started, by slaying the demonic beings known as witches and warlocks." Angela beckoned with a grim smile, reaching into her knightly attire and pulled out a scroll.


    Ricky frowned at the sight, thinking they were going to just fight already only to get an entire speech as he watched the parchment in her hand.


    "But I was ordered by the great wizard Merlin to give you a chance and I shall show you some mercy," Angela declared, her eyes fixed on Ricky with an unwavering intensity.


    "Oh wow, he shouldn''t have~" Ricky sarcastically said, frowning while suddenly pulling up his system window.


    AHEM


    "Black Knight, you are in possession of a holy blade that does not fit your stature," Angela read aloud, her tone dripping with contempt, meant to infuriate Ricky, if only he was actually paying attention.


    "Uh huh."


    "When I created the Ebony Blade and its counterparts, it was never meant to be anything more than the shadow of Excalibur, and especially not used for the vile acts you wield it for now," Angela continued, her voice sharp as she glared at Ricky, as if each word was a strike meant to undermine him.


    "Uh huh."


    "It is why I, Merlin, creator of the blade and ruler in place of the true and only king humanity ever birthed, order you to surrender yourself and the blade to await a proper trial to determine if an execution, banishment, or imprisonment is to be carried out," Angela declared, her words cold and final, as if her decree was closed by not only the ending of her words but by closing the scroll.


    "Uh huh." Ricky, completely uncaring and subtly tuning Angela out, was currently looking at the array of skills he was currently harboring.


    One of Ricky''s greatest gains had come in the form of weapons he never quite used, their functionality never quite matching the Ebony Blade or his current weapon of choice.


    He could only wield two at a time, limited by his own two hands, until now.


    Suddenly, two spectral arms emerged from his back, their ghostly forms shifting as something pushed its way out from within his very flesh.


    The spectral hands reached out, gripping the hilts protruding from Ricky''s body, and yanking out two weapons that have been lying dormant within him after being devoured.


    Then, a pulse of energy surged through him, activating his newly honed skill as a power flooded the spectral limbs, their form solidifying as a third spectral arm materialized behind him.


    Unlike the others, it did not reach toward his body and instead, within its grasp, a weapon materialized out of thin air, summoned by Ricky''s will.


    Suddenly, Ricky who was only dawning the Ebony Blade and Chastiefol suddenly spurred out three more weapons as they hung above him.


    The weapons mentioned:


    Tungsten Blade of the Hollowed Forge; a seemingly ordinary machete that draws on the power of the void, eroding the physical composition of what it cuts as structures, shields, and barriers are not just damaged; they begin to unravel, their atomic integrity corrupted.


    Venomous Fang of the Abyss: The blade is coated in a venom unlike anything seen on Earth. When the blade pierces the skin, it doesn''t simply poison the blood; the venom feeds on the life force of the victim, draining not just their strength but their very essence.


    Stormcaller''s Glaive: This elegant glaive features a blade that crackles with stormy energy, and its haft is adorned with runes of thunder and lightning.


    "You will surrender-"


    "Oh will you shut the f*ck up, we both know I ain''t doing that." Ricky scoffed, giving Angela a taste of her own medicine and interrupting her.


    "Listen, I don''t give a damn what some old pervert thinks, and I sure as hell ain''t handing over what''s mine just because he suddenly wants it back." Ricky chuckled, tapping Chastiefol against the grass while casually watching the armored men set up their strange rune-carved artifacts.


    Honestly, Ricky didn''t feel the slightest bit threatened as even without his magic, hell, even without his X-Gene, these guys didn''t pose a real challenge.


    The only reason they were still breathing was because he needed test subjects and information but before all that, he figured he''d stretch his limbs a little.


    Mastery: 1¡ú6%


    Ricky had technically been raising it, though not in the way one might expect.


    Lately, he''d been spending time with Lucky, helping him clear out tree stumps and set up his new backyard. It wasn''t exactly gardening, but it was close enough.


    ''Whatever, at least I can finally use these other weapons.'' Ricky thought, looking at the machete and corroded dagger before looking at Angela.


    "Let''s just get this over with because I still got sh*t to do-"


    "Watch your tone foul creature when addressing The Great Witch Hunter Angela!" A man yelled from the side, drawing his bow and pulling it all the way back.


    SPLAT


    It happened so fast, so suddenly, that most of the ordinary humans barely had time to process it.


    One moment, their comrade stood among them; the next, he was gone.


    Their eyes trailed further back, only to find him writhing, impaled against a tree by a spear that had torn through his flesh.


    Blood spilled from his mouth in ragged coughs, his body trembling as the reality of his fate set in.


    COUGH


    COUGH


    Even Angela, clad in the Ebony Crown and Ebony Shield, barely registered how fast Ricky had hurled the spear at her comrade.


    "Chuck, mortally wound the strong ones for questioning and go nuts with the cannon fodder," Ricky ordered.


    Chuck instinctively bowed, his excitement palpable, while Boney stepped forward, cracking his knuckles with a sinister grin.


    "Master, does that mean?" Boney asked, literally trembling with excitement, the skeletal warrior born for one purpose and one purpose only.


    "Yes, Boney, that means you can devour their souls." Ricky waved his hand.


    Boney practically jumped up and down, his hollow eyes flaring with anticipation before locking onto the unfortunate group of cannon fodder.


    "DO IT NOW!" Angela roared, her aura flaring as her smile instinctively widened as her comrades activated the anti-magic artifacts, their runes glowing ominously.


    Yet, as the battlefield shifted, Angela''s gaze flickered to the side as the coven stood at a distance, watching, not with fear, but with quiet, measured intent.


    Among them, Agatha remained still, her impassive stare concealing decades of simmering hatred but she could wait just a little longer.


    ''Something''s wrong-'' Angela thought only for her mind to squeeze under the oppressive might of the crown adorning it.


    ''Do not take your eyes away from that thing you fool!'' The Ebony Crown yelled at this dimwit, forcing her to look back at Ricky who beckoned Chastiefol back to his grip.


    "What?" Ricky suddenly asked, looking down at the Ebony Blade before his laughter trickled out of his mouth.


    "You want to say hi to your siblings?" Ricky asked, his eyes slowly turning towards Angela who felt her entire nervous system shiver.


    ''PREPARE YOUR DEFENSIVE STANCE-'' The Ebony Shield roared, trying to beckon her forward as Ricky suddenly disappeared in place before appearing before her sight.


    "Then I guess I can only make it a touching reunion!" Ricky let out a mocking laugh, his body flickering into view right before her, wide open, yet utterly untouchable.


    The Ebony Blade gleamed with its dark edge, humming with a violent hunger as he swung it across his body.


    Crimson electricity crackled along its surface, the air itself hissing under the sheer force of the strike.


    In the next second, the destruction that the attack would''ve caused was abruptly halted as the Ebony Blade met the Ebony Shield with a resounding clash.


    The sharp edge of the blade scraped against the dark surface of the shield, sending a shockwave through the air, both weapons vibrating with an intense, almost tangible power as they locked in place.


    The Ebony Crown unleashed a violent burst of purple electricity, crashing into Angela''s nervous system with such force that her arm jerked toward it, as if controlled by an invisible hand.


    In the next second, the destruction that the attack would''ve caused was abruptly halted as the Ebony Blade met the Ebony Shield with a resounding clash.


    The sharp edge of the blade scraped against the dark surface of the shield, sending a shockwave through the air, both weapons vibrating with an intense, almost tangible power as they locked in place.


    "Ah, if it isn''t our darling sibling," the Ebony Crown spoke, its voice smooth yet laced with a chilling edge. It began to shift, its form warping and reshaping, taking on the appearance of its wielder, though this time, it bore longer hair, a stark contrast to its counterpart''s shorter strands


    "I see the outside world has made you soft," the Ebony Shield scoffed, crossing its arms as it surveyed the Ebony Blade with disdain.


    Instead of the flowing locks its sibling wore, the Shield sported a crew cut, low and tight, a stark contrast to that of it''s holder.


    "The only thing that is soft is your wielder''s will." the Ebony Blade raised its gaze, almost looking down at his younger siblings as it saw them both glare at him.


    "And your wielder''s will is any better?" the Ebony Crown scoffed, hatred flaring in its eyes while turning away only for the shield to take a step forward.


    "Our creator has given us the purpose of taking you back to your rightful place." The Ebony Shields words made its sibling give it an ugly frown.


    "Our purpose is to kill Knoll-"


    "Your purpose will and will always be in Excalibur''s mighty shadow," the Ebony Crown hissed, its words dripping with venom.


    It glared down at the Ebony Blade, mocking it with every syllable, as though trying to provoke a reaction.


    The Ebony Blade, however, remained eerily silent, ducking it''s head slightly before slightly raising Ricky''s image upwards as it''s eyes, contrary to its murky black appearance, sparked with a red light filled with only hatred.


    "Repeat those words, one more time." the Ebony Blade low voice rang out with a deadly edge that only mimicked its mighty form.


    "Shadow."


    The sheer force of the impact left a trail of destruction, trees and rocks splintering in the wake of the explosion.


    Ricky stood frozen for a moment, his eyes wide as he stared at the Blade, which still thrummed with energy in his hand.


    Not just one, but both of his younger siblings repeated the words, their voices dripping with disdain and an unspoken understanding of the deep wound they were opening.


    They knew exactly what it meant to invoke Excalibur''s name in front of their eldest sibling, and they reveled in the power of the moment.


    The Ebony Blade stood motionless, the weight of their words settling like a heavy burden in the silence.


    BOOM


    Immediately upon the two Ebony weapons colliding with one another, the Ebony blade exploded out in a mass torrent of red energy that he hadn''t seen since Dracula.


    Ricky was a little confused while Angela was sent tumbling backwards, her body tossed like a doll into the distance, skidding along the ground before slamming into a tree.


    The sheer force of the impact left a trail of destruction, trees and rocks splintering in the wake of the explosion.


    Ricky stood frozen for a moment, his eyes wide as he stared at the Blade, which still thrummed with energy in his hand.


    The Ebony Blade itself seemed to crackle and pulse with an intense, volatile power, the cracks spreading like veins of molten lava coursing through it.


    Ricky raised an eyebrow, the situation quickly shifting from a mere exchange of blows to something that was only used in a life or death situation.


    "Whoa, what was that?" Ricky asked, his voice almost too calm for the chaos unfolding around him as the energy from the Blade was still raging, and yet he had not called upon it.


    The Ebony Blade''s vibrations grew stronger as a crack in its surface deepened, and Ricky could feel its resonance, the weight of its power shifting in a way that was uncharacteristic. Something had changed.


    ''I do not ask for much, only to revel in my displays.'' The Ebony Blade''s voice, low yet filled with rage, reverberated in his mind as the words of its siblings clearly got to it.


    ''But I implore you, humiliate the one wielding the power of my kin.''


    The Ebony Blade, once content with asking for little more than freedom from the chains of Ricky''s blood, was now actively requesting a favor, one that undoubtedly surprised Ricky.


    "Don''t tell me they made it personal?" Ricky chuckled, glancing up at Angela as she struggled to get to her feet, only to stumble back down as she would''ve died if it hadn''t been for the protection of the crown and shield.


    ''To a degree that warrants my fury.'' The Ebony Blade clarified, making Ricky all but laugh as some of her comrades rushed all around him, encircling him.


    "Khathar un''koran, sahran dhar''uk, sorin val''shek thal''zu. Kothal ven''rak, relzoth til''vrah. Ur''daith kal''thor." Angela''s comrades all chanted, the black artifacts lighting up with a red energy that suddenly surrounded Ricky in a dome.


    "LADY ANGELA, THE ANTI MAGIC BARRIER IS SET, QUICKLY, REGAIN YOURSELF AND-"


    SNORT


    "Like I said earlier, really?"


    In the next instant, Ricky swung the Ebony Blade across the square barrier surrounding him, and with a single, effortless strike, its magic shattered as the blade, capable of cutting through anything, cleaved the barrier as if it were nothing more than paper.


    "I''ve got a f*cking sword that can cut through anything, what are you guys even doing?" Ricky genuinely laughed, waving the Ebony Blade in front of them as they gnashed their teeth in frustration.


    Turning around, his gaze swept over the situation, and their eyes widened in shock as Boney ripped through the higher-ranking members, his skeletal hands effortlessly slicing through arms and legs.


    Then, as if sensing a weak link, Boney''s bony hand shot forward, wrapping around the neck of the youngest member and with a vicious yank, he pulled the man closer.


    Opening his mouth wide, Boney inhaled deeply, his hollow eyes glowing as the man''s entire body convulsed, choking on the life being drained from him.


    Ethereal mist began to pour from the young man''s form, flowing like smoke into Boney''s mouth, as his soul was slowly devoured.


    "THIS CAUSE IS LOST, WE MUST PROTECT LADY ANGELA!" The man quickly assessed the situation, positioning himself in front of Ricky''s line of sight to Angela as the others followed.


    One of them, however, had a distinctly different iris from the rest, a curious detail that seemed to set him apart.


    "BE STRONG, DO NOT COWER IN FRONT OF THIS BEAST-"


    SPLAT


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The man screeched, his arm limply falling to the ground, followed by his knees and without hesitation, Ricky cleaved the man''s arm off with his machete.


    "And now we wait," Ricky muttered, glancing down at the man with no hint of concern, his gaze almost casual as he observed the situation, as if anticipating something to unfold.


    Another man tried to rush at Ricky only for the ethereal arm to swipe at him as the dagger in its grip slashed at his neck, his gaze still fixed on the man who had his arm cut off but the tungsten machete.


    It was a particular effect but the cut off arm, once solid and whole, seems to deteriorate before his eyes, the skin and muscle disintegrating in a ripple-like effect, as though the very essence of his flesh is being pulled apart by an unseen force.


    The area around the severed limb begins to warp as the severed edges of the arm wasn''t left with a clean or smooth cut but instead, it started to melt, almost cave in on itself while forming this chaotic mass of decaying tissue.


    Its dissolution ability was no laughing matter as the atoms themselves were unmade as his bone started to break down into a fine mist of dust, the marrow evaporating as if sucked into the void.


    The man''s remaining arm, still intact but in a state of shock, trembled violently as he instinctively tried to put his hand over the new wound as if it would stop his body from being broken down at the atomic level.


    His man''s face twisted in a gruesome agony as the physical pain gave way to a growing, more profound sense of horror.


    It was then that the excruciating pain of his body unraveling surged through his nerves, as the void''s force crept deeper into him, siphoning away his very life force.


    "MAKE IT STOP, MAKE IT STOOOOOOOOOOOOP~" But even when the man screamed, begging to the lord above, his flesh continued to melt away.


    Leaving behind skeletal traces while his muscles snapped like fragile threads, all while his nerves, once connected to his brain, now fire erratically to a point that forced him to foam at the mouth, his eyes rolling back as he fell flat on his face.


    "Jesus-" Ricky thought out loud, only to be interrupted by the other infliction he caused by the man trying to sneak up on him by the small dagger dangling in his spectral hand.


    "KUERK, KUERK!" The man gasped, his fingers desperately clawing at the deep gash in his throat as the venom seeped into him, poisoning not just his body but his very soul.


    The agony was unbearable, far worse than any physical wound he had endured. It corroded him, tearing apart his essence with an intensity that shattered his sanity.


    The pain was so brutal that he would have gladly succumbed to blood loss, his hands frantically tearing at his flesh, just to escape the torment of this relentless, soul-shredding torture.


    "Wow." Ricky simply put it, looking at the corroded weapons, tainted by his eldritch ability then looking back at the men who instinctively took a step back.


    "M-Monster!" one of the men yelled, scrambling to flee, but Ricky raised the Stormcaller''s Glaive high.


    BANG


    A flash of electric blue erupted from the weapon, crackling through the air with a thunderous roar.


    The bolt shot forward like a speeding bullet, its energy disintegrating the very air it passed through.


    It struck the man square in the back, burning a vivid, charred streak into his skin as his spine was obliterated in an instant, and his body crumpled to the ground, lifeless, as the force of the blast turned him into little more than a smoldering ruin.


    "And you''re-........dammit I had something for this." Ricky smiled only for his mind to blank, frowning before looking up at the sky as if the answer would be written in the clouds.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Angela suddenly roared out, watching Ricky utterly destroy her comrades without even flinching, showing no compassion or reverence when he took the life of another.


    "Whatever, you guys started it-"


    "THEN I SHALL FINISH IT BY BATHING IN YOUR BLOOD!" Angela roared, her voice filled with a fury that rattled the air.


    One of her eyes pulsed with a dark, almost sinister purple, while the other gleamed a deep, eerie blue, as if the very essence of her power was manifesting within her as her aura flared violently.


    "Alright, putting aside the whole thing about me killing your friends here, that was pretty good." Ricky actually complimented her, kicking himself that he didn''t have any sort of quips in this scenario and giving Angela her flowers.


    "SHUT YOUR DIRTY MOUTH!" Angela roared, bursting forward while holding her sword high above her head as her comrades ducked away.


    Ricky threw Chastiefol to the side as it shot away all while dashing forward to meet her charge head-on.


    Brandishing her sword high, it gleamed with runes pulsing with anti-magic energy that could''ve obliterated any other warlock, except Ricky.


    They both wound up their strikes, each preparing to unleash everything they had but as Angela swung her sword down with all her might, a sudden flash of red energy streaked through her vision.


    Before she could react, her blade was severed in an instant, faster than any strike she''d ever seen.


    The impact was so swift that she barely had time to register the loss, her sword splitting into two pieces.


    She stumbled back, unable to comprehend what had just happened, and then Ricky''s voice rang out with a wild, manic laugh at a sudden realization.


    "No. F*cking. Way." Ricky bellowed, his voice full of excitement and without hesitation, he kicked Angela square in the sternum, sending her tumbling backward once again.


    "DID YOU JUST F*CKING SEE THAT, DID YOU?!" Ricky shouted, his eyes wide with disbelief and childlike glee as he completely disregarded the chaos of the battle around him, holding the Ebony Blade with a grin that spoke to his unrestrained thrill, as though he had just unlocked something new and unimaginable.


    Sigh


    ''Yes, I saw you cut through the space between the sword,'' the Ebony Blade remarked, its voice dripping with the usual snark.


    It had been present the entire time, witnessing everything unfold, but Ricky was too caught up in the exhilarating moment to pay it any mind.


    Ricky stood there, practically vibrating with excitement, still not fully processing what had just happened.


    Ricky had always been out of arm''s reach and severely lacking in terms of wielding the full potential of the Ebony Blade, especially when it came to dealing with powerful opponents, minus Angela.


    But as he swung to slice through her weapon, something clicked as that flash of red energy wasn''t just a powerful strike, it was a revelation.


    It was like a moment of clarity, a realization that his blade had unlocked something deeper, something beyond mere power.


    It wasn''t just the weapon cutting through things anymore; it was cutting through the very fabric of space and energy.


    Ricky''s grin widened, and a wild spark danced in his eyes while hoping up and down like some sort of child.


    For the first time, he understood the true potential of the blade and just managed to glimpse beyond the curtain that had been veiled before him for so long.


    "BABY, DID YOU JUST SEE THAT? DID YOU SEE ME JUST CUT THROUGH THE SPACE BETWEEN THE SWORD?!" Ricky''s voice was practically bubbling with excitement, a mixture of relief and triumph that had been long overdue.


    Agatha, still unsure of what exactly had transpired, looked over at Ricky with a mix of confusion and pride.


    She clapped her hands, a warm, encouraging smile spreading across her face.


    "I''m so proud of you!" Agatha cheered, genuinely happy for him, even if she didn''t fully understand what had just occurred.


    The other members of their group leaned in, curious and bewildered by the exchange.


    "Do you understand what''s going on-" One of them began, only to be cut off by Agatha''s quiet response.


    "No idea," Agatha whispered back, her brow furrowed in mild confusion, but her tone still filled with support.


    "Oh man, it feels like a weight has just been lifted off my chest, phew~" Ricky wiped his forehead, turning back to Angela who was frozen upon finally returning her gaze not to him, but the scenery around him.


    When Ricky threw Chastiefol to the side, it wasn''t to free up his hand but to send a message, one that left a bloody trail.


    The spear sliced through the air with a singular, deadly arc, severing the limbs of the men who had lingered on the outskirts of the battle, attempting to avoid the chaos.


    Each of them crumpled to the ground, their limbs scattered, their lives hanging by a thread as the air was thick with the metallic scent of blood as they writhed in agony, barely clinging to consciousness.


    Ricky stood among them, a satisfied smile curling on his lips as he wiped a splatter of blood from his cheek.


    The men, now reduced to little more than broken husks, trembled in the cold embrace of death that loomed just beyond their reach.


    "Now to make good on a favor from my sword." Ricky chuckled, his carefree tone almost chilling Angela to her very core before her entire being flared with a bubbling anger.


    "I''LL KILL YOU-" Angela screeched, her voice seething with fury as she pointed her finger at Ricky, her eyes burning with vengeance.


    But before she could complete her threat, that same streak of red energy pulsed in front of her vision.


    WHOOSH


    A gust of wind swept through the air, almost gentle in its passage, but it was the calm before the storm.


    Before she could react, the havoc that had been unleashed behind her erupted in a blinding flash.


    A long, searing slash appeared in the air behind her, the sound of it slicing through the treeline behind her as if disrupting that hanging stillness in a flash.


    It was only then did Angela feel a sudden tug at her side, as though something was pulling at her very essence.


    Thump


    Her arm, the same one that had been pointing at Ricky in her fury, fell to the ground with a sickening thud as the pain registered in her mind only after the shock of the strike.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Angela screamed, the searing pain from the loss of her arm eating away at what little resolve she had left.


    Her mind, already broken and reforged, completely crumbled under the weight of this agony.


    The last fragments of her sanity flickered as the Ebony Crown, sensing her vulnerability, seized its opportunity.


    The once ornate headpiece, an extension of her will, grew darker, more insidious as it didn''t just sit upon her head anymore, it invaded her.


    That purple energy spiraled out from the crown, burrowing into her flesh with an unnatural, agonizing force.


    It tore into her very being, twisting and contorting as it sought to embed itself deeper.


    With a sickening sense of finality, the Ebony Crown nestled into her skull, its influence expanding, its dark power fusing with her mind.


    ''Let it take control." The Ebony Blade suddenly said right as Ricky was about to swing again, feeling like a kid in a candy store when cutting through the space between them.


    ''It''s more fitting to let my sibling think it has a chance before crushing it.'' The Ebony Blade hatefully uttered, receiving a chuckle from Ricky.


    "And here I thought I was the only one with family issues," Ricky joked, allowing the Blade to take its moment as he watched Angela''s body twist and contort, like a marionette with invisible strings controlled by the Crown adorning her head.


    "Fall in line eldest, our maker commands it~" Angela said in a husky, low whisper while turning her hollow gaze at Ricky.


    Instead of responding, Ricky lunged at the controlled Angela, winding up his sword in an exaggerated motion, as if savoring the dramatic moment.


    The Ebony Crown instinctively blocked his strike, its power surging to intercept the blade but Ricky''s body only flared.


    "The only ones who will fall in line will be you two, unfortunately." the Ebony Blade spoke coldly to its siblings, its murky black hand crackling with ominous red energy.


    "SHIELD-" The Ebony Crown roared, its voice a thunderous command, swiping its hand as the Ebony Shield immediately sprang forward.


    "I KNOW!" the Ebony Shield snapped, surging forward with a flash of blue electricity. It conjured a mighty, shimmering wall of energy that collided with the Ebony Blade''s towering attack, the immense force of the blow crashing into the barrier as the sound of the impact reverberated through the air as the two distinct colors clashed.


    One side was dominated by the towering red electricity of the Ebony Blade, a destructive force that threatened to tear through everything in its path.


    On the other side, the Ebony Shield stood resolute, its blue electricity a symbol of unyielding resistance.


    The two powers clashed with thunderous intensity, but the Blade merely raised its gaze, watching the struggle unfold before it as it''s dark murky eyes gleamed, unbothered, as it observed the futile battle between its siblings.


    "URGH!" The Ebony Shield gritted its teeth, lifting its murky black hands in a last-ditch effort to hold off the oncoming force, but its knees buckled under the overwhelming power. The Ebony Crown, seeing its sibling falter, surged forward in a burst of purple energy.


    "CROWN-"


    "I KNOW!" The Ebony Crown roared, placing its hand on the back of the Shield.


    Its purple energy channeled into the Shield, amplifying it, and a new surge of blue erupted from the Shield''s form, pushing back against the onslaught.


    Yet, even amidst the struggle and the combined resolve of its siblings, the Ebony Blade''s gaze rose slightly higher.


    A deep, violent red pulsed through the air, as the Blade''s power surged forth with an even greater intensity.


    "If anyone is to be in the shadow of a sword, it is but you two in mine." The Ebony Blade''s voice was low, guttural, as its oppressive nature pressed down upon its siblings.


    The weight of its words felt like a suffocating force, its presence overwhelming and without mercy as the Blade cared not for the struggle before it, nor for the unity of its kin.


    The words they had spoken earlier, the ones that had reawakened something deep within it, sliced through the Blade like an old wound that had never truly healed.


    The sting was undeniable, raw, as the Blade surged with a rage born not just from its own power, but from a place of ancient, festering resentment.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The two siblings howled in unison, their voices a mix of defiance and desperation, as they surged forward with everything they had left.


    Their combined power seemed like it could rival their eldest, the force of their charge almost enough to push the Ebony Blade back, to stand their ground.


    But just as the balance might''ve been leveled, if only barely, their murky black forms began to fracture, the cracks appearing like spiderwebs, spreading quickly across their bodies.


    The energy pouring from them was immense, yet the deeper they pushed, the more evident it became since just because they could withstand the power coursing through them didn''t mean their wielder could bear the weight of the Ebony Blade''s fury.


    The Ebony Blade''s rage was an unstoppable force, and though its siblings had power, they were still bound to their wielders.


    And a weapon, no matter how mighty, could only ever be as strong as the one who held it.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Angela''s scream echoed through the battlefield, her marionette-like body being torn apart from within as Ricky relentlessly drove the Blade deeper into the shield.


    Electricity crackled, sparking a torrent of energy that swirled around them, twisting and churning in real time, feeding off the collision of their powers.


    The intensity of the struggle was so overwhelming that even the undead beings, once impervious to such disturbances, were drawn to the swirling maelstrom of energy.


    The air seemed to hum with raw power, vibrating with the force of the ongoing clash.


    Everyone, whether alive, dead, or something in between, was captivated by the spectacle of energy spiraling around the two combatants, its crackling presence impossible to ignore.


    It was then that Angela''s skin started to mimic that of the Ebony Blade''s siblings as her skin started to fracture under the raw power that her body was not trained to handle.


    "Alright, you''ve had your fun."


    BAM


    Then, as suddenly as it had appeared, the swirling energy evaporated into the air, dissipating like smoke as Ricky yanked the Blade from the shield.


    In one fluid motion, he swung it across Angela''s face with a brutal strike, the force of the blow sending her head jerking back, her body still reeling from the overload of power that had coursed through her.


    But Ricky wasn''t finished and without hesitation, he released the Ebony Blade, letting it fall to the ground, and with both hands, he seized the shield and the crown.


    His grip tightened around them, feeling their power pulse beneath his fingers as the remnants of their control over Angela began to falter and unravel.


    But instead of the dramatic confrontation the crown and shield were expecting, Ricky focused inward, casting a mental dome around his mind to shield himself from their influence.


    With a single, forceful movement, he tore them away from Angela''s being, severing their connection with her in an instant.


    "Yeah-no, we aren''t gonna do this right now." Ricky looked at the crown and shield in his hands, seeing them visibly pulse at his fingertips before throwing them off to the side.


    "Anyways, Angela was it?" Ricky asked, looking down at the dying Angela while her body crumbling in on itself.


    "Listen, I''m gonna do you a favor and take these off your hands but don''t worry, you''re welcome." Ricky smiled, looking at this almost hollow shell as Agatha from the side nodded to her coven who started to take action.


    "O-Over my cold dead body." Angela actually managed to whisper, trying to reach out for Ricky''s ankle''s only to have it stepped on by Agatha.


    "Don''t worry Lady Angela, that can be arranged."

 Chapter 166 - 160: Torturous Messanger

    Chapter 166 - 160: Torturous Messanger


    "Don''t worry, Lady Angela, that can be arranged," Agatha said sweetly and yet, her saccharine tone only sent chills through her fellow coven members as she didn''t stop pressing her heel down, grinding it deeper into Angela''s wrist.


    Crack


    "Argh!" Angela grunted, pain jolting up her arm as the weight of Agatha''s boot fractured her wrist and only then did the witch finally pull back, her smile never wavering.


    However, it wasn''t just Agatha who was being harsh with the Ordo Dracium, every single coven member took part, aggressively jerking them around or slamming them into the mud.


    This feud between witch hunters and covens had spanned literal centuries, ingraining itself into both of their teachings, making the hostility almost palpable.


    "I''ll check in with you tomorrow so I can get the rundown on what the hell is happening," Ricky sighed, pressing a quick kiss to Agatha''s cheek.


    She flinched slightly, her mind already preoccupied with thoughts of how to break Angela, before a slow smile curled across her lips.


    "Alright, but Ricky-" Agatha''s breath hitched, her body craving as a slow heat pooled within her.


    The slightest touch from him, so long absent due to their work, sent a shiver through her, leaving her craving more.


    "I know, I''ll come visit Zatanna and Johnny." Ricky interrupted her, thinking that is what she wanted since she never asked him for anything else.


    Agatha parted her lips, instinctively leaning in, only to bite them shut and forcefully yank Angela aside, her gaze snapping elsewhere to steady herself.


    Ricky, however, was already preoccupied, his focus locked onto the two Ebony artifacts writhing on the ground.


    He exhaled, a hint of resignation in his breath, before crouching down and scooping them back up.


    "Alright, listen-" Ricky dropped his mental barrier, barely getting a word in before the artifacts erupted in rage.


    "YOU FOUL DEMON! HOW DARE YOU DISCARD OUR NOBLE BEINGS LIKE COMMON TRASH?" The Ebony Crown seethed, its voice dripping with venom.


    "YOU WON BY A MERE TECHNICALITY! HAD MY WIELDER BEEN WORTHY, I WOULD HAVE BLOCKED ANY ATTACK!" The Ebony Shield bellowed, its pride wounded by the idea of being wielded by someone so unworthy.


    "Well, I can see the resemblance." Ricky muttered, his eyes drifting down to the Ebony Blade who he could''ve sworn looked away at that moment.


    "Can you-"


    "Alright I get it-"


    "Jesus Christ, you two are never going to let me speak."


    To Ricky, it was just a relatively normal conversation, a back-and-forth but to everyone else, it looked like he was completely unhinged, arguing with inanimate objects like he''d lost his mind.


    The coven members, having spent enough time around Ricky and the Ebony Blade, barely batted an eye.


    This was just another day for them but the Ordo Dracium members weren''t granted that luxury of familiarity as they watched him with a mix of vicious glares and bewildered stares, except for one.


    One particular man couldn''t take his eyes off Ricky, even as he was shoved forward with the rest, his gaze remained locked onto him, unwavering.


    "You foul witch-"


    Slap


    Agatha, thoroughly enjoying the sound of her slap echoing across Angela''s face, let out a soft snicker.


    But as her gaze shifted to the captured witch hunters, a fleeting moment of recognition passed over all of these people who had hunted her kind until her eyes landed on the man.


    Her focus flickered briefly, and for a moment, everything seemed to slow down as there was something about his gaze, something unsettling.


    She couldn''t pinpoint it at first, but a strange sensation pricked her senses as it was as if something had just registered, a subtle shift she couldn''t ignore.


    She quickly redirected her attention back to Angela, trying to dismiss the feeling but the lingering sense that something was off gnawed at the edge of her thoughts, her mind already turning over the memory she''d just captured in passing which forced her eyes to look back up.


    The instant their eyes locked, an eerie silence seemed to fall over the area as the man''s stare was intense, unwavering, and as though he knew exactly what was unfolding.


    Agatha felt her power stir, her magic flaring instinctively in response as her eyes glowed deep purple, swirling with an unnatural intensity while her aura condensed and sharpened into a focused beam of energy.


    "KILL HIM!" Agatha roared, her voice echoing with authority as her grimoire burst to life, pages flipping violently as it summoned the energy to act on her command.


    The darkened eye that had been following Ricky suddenly snapped toward him with a shift of unnatural speed, the color blackening as if it was preparing to unleash something far more dangerous.


    BAM


    SPLAT


    The man''s head exploded into chunks of flesh, but instead of halting the eyes'' advance, the grotesque sight seemed to fuel it.


    The force of the explosion acted as a springboard, propelling the eyes forward into a void-like arrow as a violent gust of wind surged through the air, whipping around the room with explosive intensity.


    Ricky''s senses screamed at him, and before he could even process the gravity of the situation, his vision bled to black.


    His pupils vanished, seemingly being devoured by the void-like color that could accurately see the dangerous presence hurtling toward him with deadly intent.


    Without a thought, his hand moved on instinct, summoning the Ebony Blade into his palm with the force of a gravitational pull.


    It felt like time slowed as the blade materialized, and in the next heartbeat, he swung it downward with terrifying precision.


    The blade cut through the air like a raging storm, crashing into the incoming attack with an explosive clash of forces.


    The impact sent shockwaves across the area, the power reverberating violently, but Ricky''s grip on the Ebony Blade remained unshaken as he met the blow with unwavering focus and sliced right through it.


    However, Merlyn, standing on the other end, simply smiled, tapping the orb in his hand.


    As the void-like arrow was sliced in half, something unexpected happened: the split arrow didn''t dissipate.


    Instead, it expanded rapidly, its edges stretching outward like the opening of a black hole, threatening to consume everything in its path.


    BOOM


    However, right before the void-like arrow could unleash its destructive power, Ricky swiftly conjured a barrier, encasing the expanding arrow in a tight sphere.


    His quick thinking was the result of the countless streams of problems thrown at him throughout these months as head of the Luciano Family, forcing him to adapt to every unforeseen challenge including this one.


    Ricky didn''t anticipate this move but acted on instinct, countering it perfectly as the sphere solidified around the arrow, he unleashed a torrent of fire into it, the intense flames igniting the energy within.


    The heat spiraled through the ball, detonating the arrow before it could self-destruct, its force dissipating harmlessly into the air.


    "Ricky!" Agatha punched Angela in the face, then quickly rushed over to Ricky as he stood there, visibly unsettled, not by the threat of death, but by the strange familiarity of the arrow.


    Something about it felt hauntingly recognizable, stirring a deep sense of unease in him.


    "I''m fine, baby-" Ricky started to reassure her, but before he could finish, Agatha grabbed his face, pulling him into a fierce kiss.


    The sudden action caught everyone off guard as they expected her to be concerned, not to act so impulsively.


    Her tongue swirled around his, a delicious mix of passion and urgency filling her senses.


    The flavor lingered, intensifying the craving she''d been trying to suppress, making her feel that simmer of desire that had been building for too long.


    For a moment, everything else seemed to fade into the background as she focused on him, grounding herself in the connection.


    Ricky was initially taken aback, not expecting the sudden intensity, but he quickly let go of his surprise and without hesitation, he leaned into the kiss, his hands sliding down her back and pulling her closer.


    His grip tightened as he cupped her ass, squeezing firmly, anchoring himself to the moment with her supple curves.


    Cough


    "Mistress Agatha, about the prisoners?" One of the high ranking warlocks coughed, trying to ask since literally everyone felt like a third wheel.


    "Hmmm?" Agatha opened one of her eyes, still jamming her tongue down Ricky''s throat only to realize the scene she was causing.


    "O-Oh yes!" Agatha laughed instinctively, pushing Ricky''s face away and scurrying back to the almost dead Angela.


    "Agatha, come on, you can''t just leave me full chub over here-" Ricky opened his eyes, watching Agatha hurriedly open a portal along with her coven members.


    "Later, bye!" Agatha said, still reeling from her own actions as she ignored Ricky''s pleas, quickly stepping through the purple portal with the others, leaving him standing there, stunned and confused.


    GASP


    A pitiful gasp escaped from a nearby cannon fodder as mist poured from his open mouth and Boney hovered above him, its eyes glowing with hunger as it slowly devoured the man''s soul, the life draining from his body.


    "Such fascinating trinkets," Chuck murmured, his voice laced with curiosity as he observed the cannon fodder souls.


    He began absorbing their essence, but his attention was also captured by the anti-magic artifacts they carried, his fingers grazing the objects with a gleam of intrigue in his eyes.


    "Then our master¡ªah, I understand now." Chuck suddenly stood up, a deep chuckle escaping him as he glanced over at Ricky, who was currently left frustrated by the unexpected interruption.


    "Master, I completely understand and shall carry out your orders," Chuck said, tapping the spot where his nose should have been, his tone filled with an odd satisfaction, as if he''d just unlocked some hidden knowledge.


    "Uh-huh," Ricky responded, already used to Chuck''s eccentricities by now as he simply nodded, letting Chuck go off and do whatever it was he thought was expected of him, no longer bothering to question his bizarre antics.


    "Alright, back to tweedle dee and tweedle dumb-" Ricky, making fun of the ebony artifacts, picked them back up only to be once again, interrupted.


    "NETHER GOD BELIEVER-"


    "YOU DIRTY SCUM-"


    Sigh


    "Y''know what? I''m gonna put this off until tomorrow." Ricky sighed, putting a barrier around his head and simply wanting to go take a nap all while the two Ebony Artifacts screeched in his head after witnessing him use Void Sight.


    While all of this unfolded, Merlyn sat in silence, his gaze fixed on the orb in front of him.


    The orb replayed the moments captured by the eye, but one particular scene caught his attention.


    It wasn''t the moment when Ricky sliced through the space between Angela''s sword or when he destroyed his amalgamation.


    No, it was the moment Ricky''s eyes shifted, locking onto the path of the arrow and turning into that Void-like color he knew personally.


    In that instant, something clicked in Merlyn''s mind as a flicker of recognition appeared within his weathered gaze.


    "So, it is true."


    Next Day,


    "SO YOU ARE COLLUDING WITH THE NETHER GODS AS OF NOW!"


    Within the realm of Ricky''s mind, the atmosphere was no longer one of solitude, as it had been when the Ebony Blade resided alone in its infinite space.


    The tranquility of isolation was disrupted, now shared by two unexpected presences, the Ebony Crown and the Ebony Shield.


    The moment Ricky had made contact with them, a bond was forged, connecting these powerful artifacts to the very core of his being.


    Instead of the Ebony Blade''s usual calm murky black scenery, there was now a flicker of conflict, an undercurrent of tension as the Ebony Crown''s regal arrogance intertwined with the Shield''s stoic and unyielding nature.


    "It is not that simple-"


    "WHAT DO YOU MEAN IT IS NOT THAT SIMPLE, DO YOU KNOW WHAT THOSE CREATURES HAVE DONE TO OUR CREATOR!" The Ebony Shield stoically said, putting its foot down on the murky black floor in front of the Ebony Blade.


    "YOU OWE OUR CREATOR AN EXPLANATION-" The Ebony Crown stepped up as well, puffing out its chest to the Ebony Sword who scoffed at this statement.


    "The only thing I owe my creator is the very thank you I gave him when I was forged into the weapon to carry out the purpose etched into the creation of the starstone, nothing more." The Ebony Blade clarified, its voice sharp and cold as it spoke with unyielding finality.


    The Ebony Crown and the Ebony Shield, both far younger and brimming with their own sense of superiority, rolled their eyes in unison, a quiet but unmistakable gesture of exasperation as if hearing this multiple times before.


    "How can you say that, how can you sit here and-"


    "Now, ladies and gentlemen, get ready for your regularly tuned broadcast of Flash Gordon!" the radio host announced with excitement, his voice crackling through the static.


    The words spilled forth, sparking a torrent of red electricity from the Ebony Blade that made the surrounding artifacts flinch and recoil.


    "I understand your need to have your curiosity sated, but I warn you, if any of you dare disrupt my listening experience of Flash Gordon, I shall crush you both under my wrath." the Ebony Blade''s voice boomed from the depths of its very being, a chill creeping into the air as it spoke.


    The intensity of its declaration reverberated throughout the newly shared space, each syllable ringing with the authority of countless years and battles fought as the Ebony Blade''s attachment to the broadcast was sacred.


    Nothing and nobody, not even the most important of events, could stand in the way of its regularly scheduled programming when it came to Flash Gordon.


    "Radio is one of the few graceful things humanity has created in this horrible world, and I would like to enjoy it," the Ebony Blade declared, its voice low and resolute and with a calculated motion, it turned, its steps molding the very air around it into a large chair.


    Sitting down with an air of finality, it gazed up at the radio, which had been carefully placed in front of it, as if the world itself had set the stage for this moment.


    Both the crown and shield, now mimicking the appearance of Ricky with different hairstyles, turned to each other then back to the Ebony Blade.


    "What do you mean?" The Ebony Shield asked, trying to show that he wasn''t curious but seeing his eldest brother actually enjoy something piqued his curiosity.


    "Yes sibling, what is this ''radio'' you speak of?" The Ebony Crown asked, turning its gaze to follow it''s eldest sibling and looking at this weird trinket.


    "Human technology has advanced to the point where they can trap tiny beings in a box that tells stories from all over the world," the Ebony Blade smirked, looking down at his foolish younger siblings, who flinched in confusion.


    "That''s impossible! No man could fit in that tiny box!" The Ebony Shield exclaimed, pointing at the radio with a mix of disbelief and accusation.


    "Indeed, that''s what I once thought as well," the Ebony Blade replied, his tone calm but carrying a hint of amusement.


    "But humans have created what they call a ''tiny man in the box,'' much like us. Only, instead of being confined, they communicate with each other through it, sharing stories and information." The Ebony Blade''s voice dropped to a more reflective note when gazing upon the small box, describing how a radio functions in its own unique way.


    Maybe that was why the Ebony Blade was so fond of the radio as it believed that, much like itself, others near it had to endure the same confinement, yet instead of suffering, they were rewarded with a delightful story.


    "Through this glorious radio, even artifacts like us can experience the wonders of fiction and stories. They are our counterparts to humans and their bards." The Ebony Blade made the analogy, his voice steady and thoughtful.


    The younger artifacts were shocked by the comparison, but as the words trailed out of the tiny box, they couldn''t help but listen in, drawn into the tale alongside their eldest sibling.


    "Ah~"


    Meanwhile, to the side, Alexander let out a breath of fresh air before huffing it back in while Ricky was putting on his suit after waking up.


    "Do you smell that, Ricky? Do you smell that waft of air?" Alexander asked, his voice almost grandiose as he gestured toward Ricky, who was adjusting his tie in the mirror.


    "What? Did someone cut the cheese-" Ricky asked, looking around for someone to blame since he didn''t do it this time.


    "NO, IT IS THE SMELL OF A DRAWING TIDES OF BATTLE, THE SWEEPING TSUNAMI OF A WAR! THAT WILL UNLEASH THE BOUNDS OF WHAT WE THOUGHT WE KNEW AND UNRAVEL IT INTO AN EXPERIENCE THAT CHALLENGES WHAT IT IS OUR FUTURE HOLDS!" Alexander roared out in anticipation, already tasting the blood in his mouth from the life or death experience he would face in the near future.


    "Alright, pump the breaks, we are not going to war-"


    "THAT IS WHAT EVERYONE SAYS BEFORE THERE IS WAR!" Alexander roared out, his face maniacal but a little funny as his gerbil whiskers twitched ferociously.


    "Alexander, I got so much shit I gotta do, I just don''t got the time." Ricky sighed, shaking his head since before he could even think about filling out more paperwork, he needed to check in with the coven.


    "Oh Ricky, sweet, innocent, and naive Ricky, you cannot avoid a call to arms." Alexander chuckled, shaking his head to Ricky who only rolled his eyes at this gerbil''s shenanigans.


    "If you ignore the call of arms, then that call will arrive at your doorstep." Alexander said with a tone of foreboding, warning him but it was his smile that really took away from the gravity of his words.


    Ricky paused for a moment, his gaze lingering in the mirror since although he knew Alexander was battle-hungry, always craving that rush of fighting and the chaos that was brought about from war.


    Ricky also knew that Alexander didn''t speak unless there was some merit to his words and with a sigh, he turned back to the mirror, contemplating his next move.


    "Well, I guess we''ll see about that right now." Ricky tiredly said, gazing at his reflection that was seemingly once again devoid of his lively smile and instead replaced by the bags under his eyes.


    Alexander, clearly aware of the weight of responsibility in Ricky''s eyes, understood that his advice couldn''t ease the burden of being a king.


    He''d always longed to be a general, never truly desiring the throne, and he recognized how different the pressures were.


    The battlefield was where Alexander thrived, where his instincts guided him, where victory was a tangible result of strategy and strength.


    But the throne, that was something else entirely since it wasn''t about skill with a sword or courage in the face of enemies.


    It was about control, politics, and decisions that affected entire nations and Alexander, for all his fervor in the heat of battle, had no desire to wield that kind of power as he wanted to lead soldiers, not a kingdom.


    Ricky, on the other hand, seemed to actively desire that very throne, the same one burdened with all the things Alexander loathed.


    Despite the gulf between their desires, Alexander, much like Socrates with his students, tried to put himself in Ricky''s shoes.


    He didn''t always agree with Ricky''s methods, nor did he fully understand his ambitions, but he took his role as a mentor seriously.


    Alexander could see the potential in Ricky, the raw determination that made him a force to be reckoned with.


    Even if Ricky didn''t always appreciate the lessons or grasp the gravity of his choices, Alexander believed in guiding him, trying to shape him into someone who could shoulder the responsibilities of kingship, like Socrates alway did for him.


    "Very well, I shall respect your decision." Alexander actually relented instead of pushing the dagger of battle into Ricky''s ears, retreating for now as the man nodded.


    "Thanks-"


    "BUT KNOW THAT YOU SHALL NEVER LEAVE ME BEHIND, FOR IF YOU DO, I WILL BE GRAVELY DISAPPOINTED AND HAVE BUCEPHALUS PEE ALL OVER YOUR THINGS!" Alexander roared, his voice filled with mock seriousness, vowing to cover every last one of Ricky''s possessions in horse piss if he dared leave him behind in the throes of war.


    "Listen, Alexander, I''ll make a promise with you now: if I ever get dragged into anything, I''ll drag you in with me. Deal?" Ricky joked, his lighthearted words carrying a hint of humor. But for Alexander, they meant more than just a passing remark, settling his bloodlust for the moment and reassuring him of their bond.


    "Deal."


    After Ricky finished dressing in his custom Rotolo suit, he headed out towards the dungeon still under construction at the Coven''s headquarters on Staten Island.


    "Is this the place?" Ricky asked, eyeing the diner still under construction as he glanced over to his shoulder at Alexander, who was holding a piece of parchment that seemed almost too large for him.


    "I''m sure of it. This is the place inscribed on this parchment," Alexander replied, placing the paper down with a satisfied nod.


    Ricky just shrugged, uninterested in the details, and walked toward the building, but as he got closer, he noticed Samuel Frost walking out of the entrance.


    "Aye, Sammy, how you doing?" Ricky laughed, a sense of relief washing over him as he spotted the familiar face as the sight of Frost confirmed they were in the right place after all.


    "Well, on top of the constant issues of having to relocate funds we don''t have because of workers we can''t pay, not very good," Samuel said, his voice flat, the bags under his eyes evidence of the sleepless nights he''d been having as he shot Ricky a deadpan glare, but the latter just laughed it off, unfazed.


    Although the Luciano family trust owns the shares of Lucky Incorporated, he doesn''t run the operations since that''s more of Chores and Samuel''s department.


    Meaning, he wasn''t the one getting royally screwed over by his decisions, but instead, it was Chores, though more specifically, Samuel who was bearing the brunt of the mess.


    "Well, you seem like you''re handling it very well." Ricky patted his shoulder, giving him a touchy smile and a thumbs up.


    "Oh, speaking of which, where is Chores-"


    "He''s been sleeping, eating, and working in the factory because of our situation." Samuel explained, giving a brief underlying standpoint to Ricky since if he did so now, then he wouldn''t have to go out of his way to do it later.


    Essentially, what Chores had done was take control of crucial areas of production, manufacturing, and operations by consolidating them all through a single steel mill.


    If it worked, the only thing left outside of their direct control would be the raw materials needed to forge the final products as the approach was ambitious, to say the least.


    A steel mill and a regular factory operate in completely different ways, with the steel mill being significantly larger and more complex than your average production facility.


    But Chores had a vision as he figured out how to repurpose the leftover areas in the steel mill to function like other factory operations, allowing Lucky Incorporated to run everything from start to finish.


    This not only streamlined the process but also dramatically cut costs, an absolute necessity given the financial strain they were under and without this strategy, bankruptcy was a real possibility.


    In a way, Chores had taken a huge gamble but by betting on the steel mill''s expansion and efficiency, he was attempting to control every facet of their supply chain and hoping it would be enough to keep the business afloat.


    "Wow," Ricky muttered, barely able to process Samuel''s words as it was a lot to take in, but it was clear he''d need to skip the next briefing just to get a handle on the growing pile of work waiting for him.


    "Don''t tell me you''re still mad about the whole hiring more workers thing, didn''t I already apologize?" Ricky, clearly seeing the glare, asked Smauel who scrunched his eyebrows even further.


    "No you did not." Samuel said in a hollow tone, looking at Ricky but knowing that an apology wouldn''t make him feel better.


    "Well, you''re doing great." Ricky gave him an even bigger thumbs up, patting him on the shoulder a little more before walking past him.


    "Thanks." Samuel ducked his head, rubbing his eyes while understanding that this was now his life.


    In all honesty, Samuel Frost didn''t care much for Lucky Incorporated as his true loyalty lay with the expectations placed upon him by his grandparents, who were high-ranking elders within the coven.


    This wasn''t a secret, everyone knew that Samuel had the potential to rise to the rank of elder himself since he possessed all the qualities that made him a prime candidate for such a role.


    However, the path to becoming an elder wasn''t a simple one.


    To ascend within the coven, one had to pass a rite, a process designed to test both loyalty and capability.


    Only the high-class members were groomed for the position of elder, and Samuel hadn''t yet proved himself worthy.


    The only way to do so was to offer something valuable to the coven, to contribute to its power in a meaningful way.


    Even Agatha had gone through this process.


    Though it was a long time ago, she had been the one to create the rule after quelling a rebellion in Salem, setting a precedent for how power and influence were to be earned within their ranks.


    "Oh, I almost forgot." Samuel suddenly lifted his head, turning back to Ricky who stopped at the door.


    "Can you tell Crowsworth I need the corporate guidelines by next Friday?" Samuel asked, unaware that Crowsworth was, in fact, a crow.


    Most people had never actually seen Chester since he worked behind closed doors, but he always met expectations and quota, which is why no one ever questioned it.


    But Chester was incredibly motivated, extremely dedicated to his new role as he had already received a 1.5% raise from Samuel personally for having written out the corporate bylaws so efficiently.


    "Uh, yeah, I''ll tell him to hurry up." Ricky nodded, watching as Samuel opened a portal and disappeared into it, vanishing from sight as he then turned back to the diner under construction.


    "Ah, I see." Alexander hopped off of Ricky''s shoulder, looking around the desolate diner and scurrying across the countertop.


    "There must be some sort of hidden mechanism-"


    Click


    "Found it." Ricky muttered, reaching behind the counter and pulling open a drawer. With a smooth motion, a doorway appeared behind him, hidden from view.


    Alexander''s mouth hung open in surprise as Ricky scooped him up, placing him back on his shoulder.


    The two began descending the stairs, the weight of the moment settling in as they moved deeper into the unknown.


    "By the way, where''s the horse?" Ricky asked, his question jarring Alexander out of his stupor as he puffed out his chest.


    "You mean my mighty steed Bucephalus? Well, I''ve entrusted him into the hands of a professional," Alexander waved it off as if it was already solved, as Ricky looked at him weirdly.


    "Who?"


    The Trusted Professional:


    "Here you go horsey~" Danielle cooed, handing Bucephalus a carrot as the lazy steed opened his mouth as the little girl gently nestled it on his tongue.


    Crunch


    Bucephalus munched on the carrot once Danielle pulled her hand to a suitable distance, lying down under the same shade of the tree as the little girl gently brushed his fur.


    "Good horsey~"


    "If that f*cking donkey does anything to my kid, I''m gonna make horse leather boots out of him, and you''re going into a mouse trap," Ricky scoffed, his irritation with the steed bubbling over. He shot a glare at Alexander, his protective instincts kicking in a bit too fiercely, before he caught himself, realizing he''d gone a little overboard.


    Cough


    "Aye, I didn''t mean it like-"


    "No, no, it is understandable as it is your child after all. I would do the very same in your shoes with my sons." Alexander held out his paw, having no need for an explanation since he already knew how Ricky could be in these sorts of situations.


    "Wait, you had sons?" Ricky asked, halting his descent and looking at Alexander who nodded his little head.


    "Yes, I had two in fact, and from Chester, I heard my bloodline is still kicking," Alexander nodded, his tone a bit distant as he recalled the information.


    Chester had mentioned in his readings that there were still descendants of his lineage in Greece, a connection he hadn''t expected to learn about.


    "But do not worry, Bucephalus only slays my enemies, and I consider Danielle a grand-disciple," Alexander informed Ricky, who gave a curt nod, but then his expression shifted as he processed something.


    "Do you consider all of my kids grand-disciples?" Ricky asked, his voice laced with a touch of foreboding, watching as Alexander nodded with a certain calmness.


    "Of course," Alexander said nonchalantly, as if it were nothing.


    Ricky frowned, his mind already spinning with some of the complaints he''d heard from his girls about his sons lately, how they''d been feeling a little too fierce.


    "Have you been teaching my kids anything?" Ricky asked, intently staring at him as the gerbil immediately turned to the side.


    "No."


    Literally A Couple Of Days Ago


    "When you slay your enemies, you must not hesitate. Crushing them where they stand is the only justifiable means, for a battle is only won with the death of your enemy," Alexander spoke passionately, his words carrying weight as his audience, Danielle and Zatanna, listened intently.


    Danielle looked a little sad at the idea of having to kill her enemies but weirdly accepted it, her expression reflecting the burden of it all.


    Meanwhile, Zatanna, always bubbly and full of energy, raised her hand excitedly, shaking it from side to side eagerly.


    "Yes, Battle Maiden Zatanna," Alexander called, giving her the floor as the girl shot to her feet.


    "What if my enemies beg for mercy?" Zatanna asked, her childlike innocence making the ruthlessness of her words almost seem playful, yet there was an undeniable seriousness behind her question.


    "The only mercy and forgiveness your enemy is allowed is the penance in their death," Alexander dutifully answered, his voice firm and resolute.


    She gave him an exaggerated nod of understanding before Zatanna sat back down, crossing her legs in a playful criss-cross formation.


    "Listen well, children," Alexander continued, his voice growing more intense.


    "The only mercy you can ever give on the battlefield is a quick death."


    Present Day


    "I do not recall ever giving my grand-disciples lessons as of yet." Alexander chuckled nervously, Ricky squinting his eyes at the gerbil on his shoulder.


    "Y''know, Alina has been telling me that Moxie has been getting his hands on toy swords, got any idea where he''s getting them from?" Ricky raised an eyebrow, looking at the guilt spelled across Alexander''s face as he turned even farther away.


    "I cannot recall."


    Alexander recalling that exact scenario:


    "Now listen up young warriors, there is no greater gift a boy can receive than his first wooden sword." Alexander said, handing two wooden swords to the toddlers of not only Moxie, but Johnny as well.


    "This is a pivotal moment for you both," Alexander said with a warm smile, though his words carried an unsettling weight.


    "For today, you shall be receiving your first weapons." Alexander''s smile was a curious mix of pride as he prepared to hand wooden swords to children who barely understood the true cost of what they were about to wield.


    "I remember the first time I was given my first sword," Alexander reminisced, his eyes softening with the memory as he paused for a moment while closing his eyes.


    Meanwhile, Moxie enthusiastically waved the blade through the air, her face alight with excitement, while Jonny, completely oblivious to its purpose, started chewing on the hilt.


    "I killed a man with it a couple years later, such good times those were." Alexander awoke from the memory to see Moxie waving it all about but instead of reprimanding him, he encouraged him.


    "Good, continue to swing it about and develop the muscles needed for your future training." Alexander excitedly said, beckoning Moxie to swing the wooden sword faster as Johnny started to do the same.


    "Uh huh." Ricky, in the present time, simply stared at Alexander who was unknowingly becoming a sort of uncle figure to them.


    This entire time, while Alexander had been lying to Ricky, he was seeing the visions clearly, revealing the very scenes privy to Alexander''s recalling mind.


    However, instead of reprimanding him, Ricky let it slide.


    It wasn''t like Alexander was trying to harm the kids, the gerbil was just trying to connect with them in his own peculiar way.


    Alexander wasn''t perfect, sure, a little odd even, but Ricky knew how much Alexander had guided him over the years.


    He wasn''t even the slightest bit opposed to him guiding his own bastards since although it was strange, Ricky understood the value of that kind of guidance, even if it came wrapped in a strange package.


    "Whatever."


    They continued walking deeper into the dungeon, but instead of finding an end, the stairs seemed to stretch endlessly downward.


    Ricky could feel his patience wearing thin and with each step, the air grew thicker, heavier, and his annoyance started to mount


    "What the f*ck, when did they even get the time to build this?" Ricky asked, baffled how many stairs he had stepped on at this point all while Alexander marveled.


    "I know what a marvelous dungeon this is!" Alexander excitedly said, completely looking up at this dungeon with stars in his eyes.


    "The structure is so haunting, yet it encapsulates the horrors that lurk in its depths!" Alexander declared, his voice filled with an oddly academic excitement.


    His eyes scanned the seemingly endless staircase with the intensity of an expert, as if he were studying the very architecture of the place.


    His fascination was palpable, his enthusiasm about the dungeon''s eerie design contrasting sharply with Ricky''s growing irritation.


    "This coven really knows its dungeons," Alexander nodded, crossing his arms and giving a satisfied, certifiable approval.


    They continued to descend further and further down the staircase, the air growing colder with every step.


    Finally, they arrived at a long, drawn-out hallway as the silence was broken by an agonizing scream, echoing off the stone walls.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The tortured wail reverberated through the dungeon, adding an unsettling layer to the already eerie atmosphere.


    "M-Mr. Luciano, it''s an honor to meet you!" A warlock guard flinched at the sight of Ricky, bowing deeply to Ricky as the other next to him followed.


    "Mistress Agatha has assigned us to guide you-"


    "Spare me the ramblings, just take me to her." Ricky held up his hand, watching the two guards look at each other for a split second then back at him.


    "Uh, no disrespect Mr. Luciano, but we have been told to let no one in-"


    "Listen, guys, we both know you can''t stop me, so just tell me where she is. And if she ends up asking, just tell her I put a sword to your throat or something like that." Ricky said, his tone calm but firm.


    He knew he was going to get what he wanted one way or another, and if they wanted to indirectly throw him under the bus, that was fine by him.


    "The end of the hall-"


    "George!" The other warlock reprimanded George who gave away Agatha''s whereabouts without even flinching.


    "What? He''s the mistress'' mate and the man who killed Dracula. What could we possibly do in front of him?" George realistically spoke, pointing at Ricky as he nodded in agreement, recognizing it as a fair point.


    "But still, you could''ve waited-"


    "Oh no, I ain''t getting my ass kicked by anyone else, it''s why I took on this guard duty-"


    The two warlock guards bickered back and forth, their voices growing fainter as Ricky calmly walked past them.


    His footsteps echoed through the long stretch of hallway, each step resonating in the eerie silence around him.


    As Ricky''s gaze passed by the visible cells, a cold sense of resentment filling the air.


    Each cell seemed to hold a prisoner whose suffering was a twisted form of retribution, and the anger of the coven toward these faction members was palpable.


    Every one of them had at least one family member or ancestor hunted by this very faction over the centuries, and the torment they now inflicted was as much about vengeance as it was about power.


    The longer Ricky observed, the more he understood the depth of the brutality as the methods of torture, once merely harsh, had evolved into something far darker, the cruelties becoming more inventive and sadistic as time passed.


    There was a haunting reality taking shape in this dungeon, a grim truth about what it was that these faction members did with the bodies of their fallen witches and warlocks.


    And Ricky, for all his confidence and understanding of the situation, was still blissfully unaware of the full extent of what he was walking into.


    Finally reaching the doorway, Ricky swung it open to reveal a gruesome scene as Agatha, her face twisted in fury, relentlessly pummeling Angela with punch after punch, each blow landing with sickening force.


    But it wasn''t the tears of Angela that were being shed but instead, the cries of Agatha after learning for herself.


    BAM


    Sniff


    BAM


    Sniff


    Blood splattered across the surroundings like a twisted canvas, each streak marking the walls in a grotesque display of sadistic abstract art.


    The air was thick with the metallic scent, the room an unsettling portrait of rage and brutality.


    "Ah, Ricky, you''re finally here. Could you please stop her? We need to converse." Chester asked, noticing Ricky''s entrance as he continued the interrogation of Angela, a task he was handling entirely on his own.


    "Agatha, Agatha!" Ricky immediately rushed forward, pulling the crying woman back as he didn''t even hear Chester''s words but acted on his own impulse.


    Sniff


    "You fcking btch!" Agatha roared, trying to punch Angela again only for Ricky to grab her bloodied hands into his.


    "Hey, hey~" Ricky cooed, pulling the distraught leader of the coven into his embrace as she all but melted into it.


    Agatha''s tears stained his expensive suit, but Ricky didn''t care as he waited patiently for her to regain herself, the only sound in the room was her quiet sniffles before she finally stopped.


    "Materials, we''re just materials," Agatha whispered, her hands clutching the back of his suit tightly as her entire body shook with violent tremors.


    "They didn''t even hunt us because of hatred but for our flesh, as if we were nothing more than spare parts to fulfill their own safety." Agatha hit her head against Ricky''s chest, her voice cracking, but he still couldn''t fully understand the weight of her words.


    "Agatha, what is going on? Just tell me," Ricky asked, his voice full of frustration and confusion as he watched as Agatha turned her angry yet sorrowful expression up to him, her eyes filled with unshed tears.


    "They''ve been turning our fallen members, our family, our friends, and the people we grew up with, into chimeras!" Agatha wailed, slamming her forehead into Ricky''s chest over and over again, her grief spilling out uncontrollably.


    Ricky, feeling the intensity of her pain, finally stopped her, holding her gently but firmly.


    This was the true purpose behind hunting the covens around the world, the relentless pursuit of Agatha''s coven.


    They weren''t being targeted for any deep-seated ideological conflict or centuries-old grudges and it wasn''t hatred that drove the enemy forward.


    No, they were hunting them for their flesh, dissecting their bodies, stripping away their humanity, and turning them into something grotesque.


    The coven members'' bones, organs, skin, all of it, was harvested, twisted into chimeras, horrific amalgamations of human and animal parts, as if the value of their very existence was reduced to mere materials.


    The coven wasn''t just being eradicated for their power or influence; they were being dehumanized, their lives torn apart so their bodies could be turned into weapons, into grotesque creations for some twisted purpose.


    The pain Agatha felt wasn''t just physical, it was a deep, visceral sorrow.


    Every drop of blood, every scream from her covenmates wasn''t just about the fight for survival; it was a lament for their lost humanity.


    Ricky, now understanding, held her tightly, realizing that the very thing Agatha had always been fighting against was being systematically stripped away, turning their people and their cause into nothing more than pieces to be reassembled into monstrous forms.


    "You lost your right to be a part of humanity when you-" Angela spat out, her face completely broken and bruised yet still weakly provoking Agatha who gave into it.


    BAM


    Agatha slammed her fist into Angela''s face, her hatred bubbling out as another streak of crimson splattered onto the already hateful canvas beneath them.


    "Agatha stop, Chester still needs to do his thing." Ricky pulled her back, purposely letting go since Angela completely had it coming.


    "Hahahahahahaha!" Angela spat out a mouthful of blood, laughing in Agatha''s face as her entire body swirled in purple.


    "Chester, give me the rundown, what''s happening?" Ricky looked over at Chester, prompting forward an explanation as the crow nodded.


    "Well, putting aside the fact the coven is being reduced into chimera''s, Angela is not Angela." Chester revealed, pointing his wing at the girl as if fascinated by her own existence.


    "Huh?"


    "Her psyche was entirely structured and reshaped into what it is now. She was born, yes. She grew up, yes. But everything about her mind has been fractured and remade into something entirely different. I''m actually quite fascinated by how that''s even possible," Chester explained, regarding Angela with a mix of curiosity and intrigue, as though she were some kind of marvel.


    "To put it simply, Angela died and was replaced by the version of her you see before you," Chester revealed, eyeing her as if she were an actual creation.


    Even someone like him, a crow with vast knowledge of this sort of field, couldn''t fully believe it without delving into her psyche himself.


    "Whoever it was, whether it was Merlyn or someone else, has completely altered the very essence of her being in a way I never thought possible," Chester revealed, his gaze fixed on Angela as he marveled at the intricate manipulation of her psyche, appreciating the craftsmanship behind it.


    "Like a third-grader, come one." Ricky beckoned, still not understanding as Chester sighed lightly.


    "To put it simply, her entire existence was erased, and her mind was molded with a personality designed to suit the creator''s needs," Chester explained, as Ricky nodded, his eyes fixed on the smiling Angela.


    "She''s a living, breathing, fully functioning, and coherent puppet," Chester said simply, marveling at the impossibility of such a feat.


    His own methods would leave someone brain-dead eventually, but this was something entirely different, it was the epitome of his own ability.


    "Is there an issue I''m missing out on-"


    Here''s your dialogue, kept intact but cleaned up for readability:


    "It would take me years to unravel the mess and reforge her mind. I can only induce things she can recall, but she only recalls what she''s allowed to remember. It''s very complex," Chester revealed, only being able to induce very selective things, meaning only one thing.


    "What are you trying to say Chester, just say it." Ricky asked, feeling that weird sense of foreboding while gazing at Angela''s hollow eyes at the side.


    "Whoever sent this woman, sent her as a mere messenger." Chester looked at Ricky, clearly almost worried for him.


    "What''s the message?" Ricky asked, watching Chester frown as Angela''s pupils dilated at that exact moment.


    "You are a worthy threat," Angela uttered, like some sort of broken record, repeating the very same thing Chester was about to say.


    "Listen, I''ve done all that I can but this craft is far superior to my abilities and besides, I have work to do." Chester flapped his wings, shaking its head since this broken soul was far more trouble than he could deal with at this moment.


    "Oh yeah, Sammy told me to remind you to hurry up with those corporate guidelines," Ricky remembered, notifying Chester, who sighed deeply.


    "I would''ve finished on time if someone hadn''t pestered me yesterday," Chester glared at Ricky, who suddenly found a strange stain on the ceiling that captivated his attention.


    "But wait, if this crazy b*tch is a messenger, then he knew I''d pummel her into the ground-...so he basically gifted me the crown and shield," Ricky realized, scrunching his eyebrows as the others nodded in agreement.


    "I do not know but this problem is now completely and utterly yours." Chester notified Ricky, flapping his wings and flying out of the room while Alexander rubbed his furry chin.


    It was common sense that Ricky would obviously want to take that crown and shield, especially since they paired perfectly with the ebony sword.


    But if it''s Merlyn, the guy everyone keeps saying is behind it and obviously picking a fight, the question remains.


    "Why is he making me stronger?" Ricky asked, crowdsourcing an answer as Agatha wanted to punch Angela but after knowing she was but a mere puppet, it didn''t ease her hatred.


    "Maybe you''re just too weak for a challenge?" Alexander speculated aloud, only to receive a subtle shake of the head from Agatha.


    "I don''t know Merlyn personally, but from what I''ve heard from others who''ve crossed paths with him, he never does anything without a purpose," Agatha clarified. She turned toward the door, but not before planting a kiss on Ricky''s cheek.


    "I need to go prepare a statement for my coven. They deserve to know. Come see me later," Agatha said with a warm smile, patting his chest before walking past him, leaving Ricky alone with Angela.


    Ricky didn''t linger too long in the dungeon and exited, walking down the street with Alexander resting on his shoulder.


    He did this for one reason: to think.


    At first, he had the idea that Merlyn wanted the ebony blade back, which is why he''d sent the crown and shield to fetch it.


    But after learning that Angela was just a messenger, Ricky honestly didn''t understand anymore.


    Everything just seemed more complicated now.


    "Do you get it?" Ricky asked Alexander, still deep in thought, but the gerbil shook his head.


    "If I were Merlyn, I would''ve killed you and eliminated any potential threats. I don''t understand why he would empower a threat unless it''s for his own amusement in battle, but for your woman''s words he doesn''t seem like that sort of type." Alexander said, struggling to understand Merlyn''s mindset since to him, Merlyn seemed to be a strategist, not a battle maniac.


    "Maybe he''s trying to empower you and have you retaliate so he can test the might of Camelot." Alexander made a wild claim that actually sort of aligned with Merlyn''s intentions.


    "Yeah, but couldn''t he just release Morgana for that?" Ricky asked, raising an eyebrow as it seemed simpler to release her wraith instead of incur his as Alexander furrowed his brows and nodded in agreement.


    "That''s right, I forgot about her." Alexander mumbled, rubbing his fury chin once again.


    "Hey Alexander, what do you know about Nether Gods? I keep hearing that name." Ricky asked, his dress shoes clicking on the sidewalk as Alexander shook his head once more.


    "The only gods I know are the greek ones, I apologize-"


    "Nah, I just don''t really want to go to Morgana and ask, ''cause she''ll have that pompous attitude, and I really don''t want to deal with that right now," Ricky sighed, waving his hand dismissively as they walked toward Italiano''s.


    "Well, from my experience with practitioners of magic, their intentions are never as simple as they make it seem," Alexander assessed, drawing from his own experiences within the realm of Kamar-Taj.


    "Magic is give and take," Alexander explained, his eyes suddenly being burdened by the weight of his past.


    "Since you haven''t experienced the ''take'' as much, due to sublimating it through your weird grimoire, but the higher you ascend in the realm of magic, the more you are required to give." Alexander paused for a moment, then added with a grim expression.


    "Sacrifice is required, just as knowledge is, and even I had to give up something for power." Alexander ducked his head slightly, proning Ricky to look at him on his shoulder.


    "What did you sacrifice?" Ricky asked, understanding if Alexander didn''t want to give him an answer.


    "I had to sacrifice love for power," Alexander closed his eyes, the weight of the words lingering in the air as Ricky understood, nodding silently, not pressing any further.


    After that, they continued their walk down the street, the quiet sounds of the city surrounding them. It was a simple, pleasant stroll, a rare moment of peace.


    Portaling everywhere had its advantages, but it also robbed them of the little journeys, the spaces in between.


    Walking gave them time to think, to breathe, and to let the world move around them.


    Ricky had always been the type to focus on the next thing, always moving forward without stopping to appreciate the present.


    But that moment of quiet reflection was abruptly interrupted when the sight of Italiano''s came into view.


    "Well, back to work I guess." Ricky sighed, trudging towards the hill of paperwork that was his life now while Alexander continued to be prone on about the subject.


    As Ricky sat down at the booth, Alexander started rolling around and scurrying about while deep in thought as if the answers would come to him before the door opened.


    "Johnny, if this is about the magic kids-Alina?" Ricky scoffed, turning towards who he thought would be Johnny and instead showed itself to be Alina.


    Along with her warm smile and supple curves, there was the unmistakable sign of a baby bump, a soft curve of her stomach that held Ricky''s child growing within it.


    "What are you doing here, is something wrong?" Ricky asked, standing up and walking to her as she hugged him tightly.


    Ricky had certainly experienced some of the effects his addictive fluids had on his woman, but he never truly saw the long-term impact it had on the women around him.


    Sure, they''d come to him at times or he would come to them, but he''d never fully witnessed the consequences of the mark he left behind.


    The side effects of his skills, especially the deeper, more emotional or psychological ones, were things he only noticed in fleeting moments, never truly understanding the lasting effect they had.


    Until now.


    "Ricky, I need you~"


    Author''s NOte: Quicky notice, I once again will respond to your guys comments but I can''t rn cause my prof is a d*ck and I gotta study for this test. Later I promise or sometimes later, idk but I''ll get to it cause I always do. I really do respect you''re guys input and it''s the reason I feel like I''ve imporved cause its really hard to see your own problems so it helps when you, my readers, who read this far and enjoy my writing tell me what''s up. Anyways thanks.

 Chapter 167 - 161: The Problem With Addiction (R18)

    Chapter 167 - 161: The Problem With Addiction (R18)


    "God damn it feels good to be wanted-"


    Click


    Alina didn''t even give him enough time to spew some sleazy and cheesy one liner as she already reached for his belt buckle.


    Alina''s eyes locked onto his crotch, hunger simmering beneath her gaze as her body ached for Ricky''s taste.


    Back then, when Ricky first entered her life and left his mark on her, she had managed to persevere through her motherly duties. But now, with his return, she couldn''t cut herself off.


    It was as if she were a relapsing addict, realizing that resisting this addiction was impossible, so instead, she surrendered.


    His cock flopped onto her face, and a blush bloomed across her cheeks as she marveled at the weight of it, resting between her eyes.


    "Wait, Alina, let''s go to the back-holy f*ck~" Ricky chuckled, trying to pull her toward the back room, only for his words to cut off at the sound of a single, deliberate gulp from Alina.


    In one fell swoop, Alina devoured his cock as her eyes rolled back at the mere feeling of his tip gliding down her throat and seemingly nestling into her stomach.


    Pre-cum leaked from his tip, and Alina''s sultry body shivered in anticipation as she pulled her head back for a fleeting moment, only to slam his cock deep into her throat.


    "Aye Ricky, ther-"


    "Johnny, step into this-f*ck-step into the goddamn restaurant, and you''re dead!" Ricky growled, his words faltering as Alina teased his balls, her throat working him over in a sinful massage. Gritting his teeth, he forced himself to repeat the threat, his voice strained with pleasure as Alina was acting like some sort of b*tch in heat.


    Johnny, about to step inside, immediately froze as his eyes widened before he took four quick steps back, spun on his heel, and decided it was best to come back another time.


    Alexander had already wandered off to ponder elsewhere, leaving Ricky to his own devices, namely, Alina''s eager hands fondling his balls and devouring his cock.


    Alina shoved his cock down her throat, the desperation in her movements more driven by the intensity of her withdrawals than the humiliation of pulling Ricky''s pants down in the middle of the pizza joint turned office.


    Drip


    Saliva dripped from the corners of Alina''s mouth, pooling on the floor beneath her as her lips stretched around his thick cock. The sounds of sucking and slurping echoed through the empty pizza joint, and Alina gave no thought to the shame of the moment as her only focus was filling her belly with his warm, heavy cum.


    "My god~" Ricky muttered, actually having to grab onto the nearby beam for support while arching his head up and resting a hand on Alina''s frizzy hair.


    It was as if Alina''s hands were worshipping his balls, gently squeezing and massaging them with an almost tender sincerity until his cock throbbed in response as her eyes tracked every pulse, every vein littering his cock with a desperate need flickering in them.


    Suddenly, Alina''s pace quickened, pushing his cock deeper into her throat, her pace becoming frantic as she felt Ricky grip her hair, the silent signal that he was ready to release everything into her.


    As if already anticipating Ricky''s move, he grabbed her hair and yanked her down onto his cock, forcing her throat open as it pulsed deeply inside her.


    "There we go," Ricky grunted, releasing the full load Alina had worked tirelessly for, sending it straight into her willing gullet.


    The thick, sticky fluid poured down her throat, its sloppiness burning as it coated her insides as it flooded her stomach, filling her entirely, leaving her with the heavy, addictive aftertaste of his release.


    Already knowing Ricky was about to release, Alina eagerly swallowed the first load, savoring every drop, before pulling his shaft from her mouth, letting the tip rest on her tongue as the second pulse throbbed hotly.


    Her hands gripped his shaft, squeezing it, dragging it up like his cock was a tube and she was working out that last bit of toothpaste before it splattered onto her waiting tongue.


    The thick, white mess immediately coated her mouth, and she swirled it around, her taste buds trembling, greedy for every drop of the filthy pleasure she craved.


    Although Ricky had always treated Alina like nothing more than a cumdumpster, using her however he pleased, he never expected her to take the lead with such relentless forwardness.


    While Alina swirled his cum around her tongue, savoring the taste, Ricky was left completely baffled at the sudden forwardness of this woman.


    Although Ricky had always treated Alina like nothing more than a cumdumpster, using her however he pleased, he never expected her to take the lead with such relentless forwardness.


    Ricky had been swamped lately as every time the urge hit, he would instinctively turn to Alina''s house, knowing she would never turn him away. Agatha and Raven had their own lives, their own distractions, leaving Ricky with few options when he needed release. Alina had always been there, available and eager, but now, her willingness had come at a price.


    His growing neglect of her, the distance he''d created over time, had left a mark, and this situation, messy and complicated, was the consequence.


    In fact, Ricky had severely underestimated the potency of his IP skills as although they were straightforward and unrefined, they were more effective than he ever imagined. Now, he was about to learn the hard way what his addictive fluids had turned his woman into.


    "More, honey, I need more~" Alina moaned, her mind lost to the need as the aching sensation in her body barely faded. She eagerly pressed her face against his wet cock, letting it slap against her, her hunger intensifying with each desperate movement.


    "Alright, baby, but like I said-my god~" Ricky''s words were cut short as Alina, without warning, tore off her top, her large breasts spilling free. Alina wasted no time, pressing them against him, feeling the slick heat of his cock sliding between them.


    She wasn''t even listening to him at this point, closing her eyes and pressing her lips against the tip of his cock.


    Pressing upon it a sweet, passionate kiss before once again swallowing it into her greedy gums that were still num with the taste of his cum.


    Alina, visibly further along in her pregnancy, was already experiencing the early stages of lactation. Her breasts, tender and heavy with the weight of motherhood, began to leak, a stream of warm, milky liquid trickling from her nipples.


    Alina''s own finger squeezed the meaty fat of her own breasts, forcing out that warm residue that stained his veiny throbbing cock in a mother''s warmth.


    Ricky simply stood there and watched, his expression a mix of shock and arousal, Alina moved with a deliberate slowness. It was as though she were a broken record, caught in a cycle of yearning as she leaned forward as her soft, warm tongue gently brushed against him, savoring the milk she had secreted. The creamy warmth of it slid down his veiny shaft, her mouth moving slowly to clean every drop, her body radiating heat as she took her time. Then, upon coating every inch of him with her milk, the warmth of it lingering on his skin, and finally sensually licking him clean. Her head slowly pulled back to his tip where her lips, full and red, parted slowly as she took him in, her mouth wrapping around him in a slow, deliberate motion. All while her breasts, soft and full, pressed against the base, the sensation of her warm skin sliding against him adding to the intensity. She pulled back, her gaze meeting his as she repeated the movement, her rhythm slow and deliberate, drawing him deeper with each pull.


    The wet, slippery sound filled the room as she moved faster, her breathing gargled and urgent.


    Coaxing him for his cum, Ricky''s mind spiraled, completely overtaken by the tight, soft flesh enveloping him. It was an unexpected turn of events in the dynamic, one that Ricky had set in motion himself as he had made Alina into his own outlet, a vessel for the raw lust he so often unleashed upon her only to be used as an outlet himself.


    "Jesus~" Ricky didn''t even see his own climax cumming, hitting him like some sort of train as his fingers dug into her hair as his hips slammed into that welcoming mouth of hers.


    Alina''s eyes rolled backwards, twitching vigorously at that second helping she so desired as it once again splattered into her gums before his cock rammed deeper into her throat, spilling the remainder of his load into her gullet.


    This full sensation sounded in her belly, the very same one holding Ricky''s second child with her but even still, even now after all of that, the craving didn''t go away.


    However Alina wouldn''t need to take the lead anymore, having her pregnant and motherly form pushed down as Ricky ripped away her panties.


    Throwing her purple dress away, Alina had become bare in front of Ricky''s still well maintained form with his cock resting on her wet, throbbing loins.


    If Ricky had care to even take notice, he would have seen that the panties he had torn away were completely soaked.


    Stained in the heartfelt juices of his cumdumpster whose folds ached for that all encompassing feeling he suddenly thrusted into her.


    "AHHHH~" Alina moaned, her head arching backwards as Ricky didn''t waste any time and completely submerged himself into her warm, welcoming pussy.


    That wet, slimy feeling already coating his cock was triumphed by the flooded cave of Alina, her entire body seemingly altered to be his perfect, personal lubed up pocket pussy that had its entire purpose used for this very moment.


    THWAP


    THWAP


    The wet, sloppy sounds of Alina''s folds echoed with each of Ricky''s powerful thrusts, his cock pounding relentlessly into her spewing waist, each movement leaving her body trembling with the force of him driving into her again and again.


    "Ahshhs, ashhhs~" Alina slutty mouth rang out, slobbering on her own self-need that beckoned forth the only desire to have her being filled to its brim with his thick, milky cum.


    Alina was literally acting like the very way she was being treated at the moment as a live, living sex doll.


    Reduced to her certified title, Alina embodied the title of Ricky''s personal cumdumpster fully as her legs wrapped around him, her insides clenching at the arrival of his impending load.


    Ricky, however, was completely occupied with this slutty, motherly body of hers that had gone unnoticed by all the work piling up.


    His eyes were infatuated on the dripping nipples, the milk slowly leaking from them as his hands sank deeper into the massive, flopping flesh bags of her breasts.


    ''Might as well.'' Ricky thought, literally already in the appropriate position and without hesitation, pressing both her nipples together before having a taste himself.


    As Ricky slammed his hips into Alina''s wet, spewing cunt and took in a mouthful of her nutrient rich milk, he felt oddly at peace.


    THWAP


    "AHSHSHH~" Alina, on the other hand, bore the brunt of Ricky''s ruthless actions as her head arched back as her folds, currently stretched and filled to the brim by his cock, spewed out her climax.


    Ricky closed his eyes, a sense of strange peace washing over him as he savored the warmth of her milk, his cock sinking deeper into the warm abyss of her pussy.


    All while Alina cried out spasming pleas for more, his cock pounding her ruined pussy that spewed out love juices which were slowly ruining the pantlines of his suit.


    Gulp


    "Woah, that feels good," Ricky thought outloud, realizing this was the first time he''d ever fucked a woman he''d gotten pregnant while drinking her lactating milk.


    "I should''ve done this sooner." Ricky muttered, slamming his cock down into Alina''s being that convulsed out another climax.


    THWAP


    THWAP


    THWAP


    The wet, harsh slaps of Alina''s skin being relentlessly hammered by Ricky, who greedily savored the milk she offered, filled the room.


    Each thrust was harder than the last, Ricky pushing deeper into her as the sloppy, used sounds of her pussy being punished filled the space between them. Meanwhile, her utters were being grappled, pulled and twisted as Ricky was physically milking Alina while enjoying her taste.


    His mouth was latched onto her tender peaks, sucking greedily, the taste of her milk flooding his senses, sharp and warm against his tongue.


    It was almost like a nirvana state, feeling at peace with himself while having his cock embedded into her stretched folds, and her meaty tits spilling out milk.


    It was why Ricky found his balls churning, his cock twitching, and without any hesitation he would his entire hips back, then slammed it all down into Alina.


    "That''s the stuff~" Ricky grunted, closing his eyes and unlatching his mouth off her tits that had his teeth marks surrounding her nipples.


    "A-A-A-" Alina was frozen mid-moan with a happy smile, feeling his familiar warmth erupt into her being once more and fill her entire being with the thick, refreshing feeling of his cum.


    How it surged, splattered throughout every inch of her being and completely quelled that feeling which had induced her into this craved, addicted state.


    Now, stuffed like some sort of pinata, Alina finally broke under it all as her body went limp on the floor with her teary eyes finally content.


    Although she was satisfied, Ricky was already revved up at this moment and without hesitation, he flipped Alina onto her belly, his hands gripping her hips firmly, lifting her just enough to keep her baby bump from pressing against the floor.


    "Alright, let''s go for a couple more rounds."


    30 minutes later,


    Zip


    "Ah~" Ricky let out a refreshed sigh, zipping his spare pants that he always carried in Italiano''s.


    Adjusting himself in the mirror by the side, he turned back to Alina spasming on the ground, pooling out buckets of his cum as her legs were permanently spread wide as if expecting Ricky to continue.


    Sigh


    "I should probably handle that." Ricky followed through on his words, walking over to Alina and carefully dressing her, leaving her soaked panties discarded to the side. As he scooped her disheveled form into his arms, he gazed down at the pool of his cum on the floor, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. With a casual gesture, he tossed a towel over it, as though dismissing the mess, muttering to himself that he''d deal with it later.


    His driver took him all the way to Alina''s house, where she rested peacefully in his arms, nestled against his shoulder, one hand gently resting on her stomach.


    "Slick?" Marco asked, pausing as he cleaned up the poaching, the broom stopping as he noticed Ricky carrying Alina as his gaze softened, seeing her cradled so tenderly in his embrace.


    "Aye Marco, your ma came down to visit me and I''m just bringing her back." Ricky explained half-heartedly, walking past him and into the house with Moxie running around with his wooden sword.


    It was then that a hand yanked at his collar, one of Ricky''s ethereal hands pulling him out of the table as a deadpan expression looked upon his father who dangled him in the air.


    "Moxie, don''t do that!" Sophia whined, trying to stop her little brother with the typical overprotective sister vibe but the rascal just grinned and ducked under the table, escaping her grasp with ease.


    It was then that a hand yanked at his collar, one of Ricky''s ethereal hands pulling him out of the table as a deadpan expression looked upon his father who dangled him in the air.


    "Don''t be such an ass and listen to your sister." Ricky lectured, placing him in Sophia''s good graces before walking to the master bedroom.


    Kicking the door open, he walked over to the bed and gently laid the exhausted Alina down before leaning over and kissing her forehead.


    Alina''s sleeping form softened into a smile at the gesture as Ricky leaned down, pressing a tender kiss to her pregnant belly. He lingered for a moment, his gaze lingering on her peaceful face before turning to leave the room, closing the door gently behind him.


    Just as he was about to step forward, Ricky glanced down and saw Moxie, his binky in his mouth, clutching the sword, definitely a gift from Alexander, with surprising determination.


    Without hesitation, Moxie started hitting Ricky''s shin with the wooden sword for daring to come near his mommy.


    "Hey, stop that." Ricky nudged the little kid away, shoving him only for him to come back even more fierce.


    "And take this binky out of your mouth, you''re almost four." Ricky frowned, leaning down only for Moxie to start hitting his hand with the sword.


    Suddenly, Moxie felt his binky nudged out of his mouth. His eyes widened as he immediately realized it was gone, and tears began to well up, a soft whimper escaping him.


    But Moxie''s life would be forever changed in that instant when Ricky countered his near-tearful face with a wad of money. The faint texture of the paper and its crisp green hue filled Moxie''s vision as Ricky handed him two thousand dollars in the blink of an eye.


    "It''s called give and take Moxie; I take your baby binkie and I give you the good stuff, money, and it buys you literally anything if you get enough of it," Ricky chuckled, watching Moxie plop down on his butt, staring at the wad of hundreds in one hand and the sword in the other.


    "Hehehehehehe~" Moxie chuckled madly, clutching the wad of money and the wooden sword to his chest, swaying back and forth with wild excitement.


    Although templates were provided for his upbringing, it was Ricky''s actions that truly shaped his development. In this way, the first four years of his life could be considered nothing more than a prologue.


    This was the first chapter of Moxie "Boss" Luciano, the future pillar of the Luciano family.


    But now, he was Baby Moxie, finally tasting what money and violence could get you as Ricky unknowingly walked away, he was shaping his son''s development, albeit indirectly.


    Walking out of the house, Ricky was met with a small, frail man scrambling out of his car, rushing toward him as it was clear he recognized this high-ranking member of the Luciano family.


    "Big Tony, what are you-"


    "SLICK, YOU GOTTA GO TO MEXICO, PLEASE!" Big Tony was hysterical, begging Ricky, who had long put off addressing this growing issue.


    "Whoa, buddy, calm down-"


    "I can''t, I F*CKING CAN''T WITH THOSE BEAN-"


    "Aye, aye, the kids." Ricky held up his hands, turning back to Marco, Sophia, and the giggling Moxie behind him.


    "Come over here and tell me the gist."


    Although the Luciano family and the Guerra cartel benefited immensely from the drug running partnership solidified by Ricky, there was just one slight problem.


    Rosa Guerra.


    Ricky didn''t just leave behind his business; he also left one of his bastard children, a move that not only infuriated Juan but made him seriously put out hits on Ricky. The only reason he hadn''t severed ties completely was because, despite his hatred for Ricky, he actually loved his nephew and didn''t blame the child for his existence. As a good uncle, Juan knew this innocent child, born from his beloved sister, wasn''t responsible for the situation, it was the demonic fiend that was Ricky.


    Instead, Juan had been leveraging his control over the Luciano family''s cocaine supply chain, either holding most of their product hostage or jacking up the prices until Ricky finally showed up.


    The problem, though, was that Ricky had been so caught up with other matters that Juan, feeling insulted and brushed aside, had completely severed ties. Now, the only way to resolve things was for Ricky to come in person and make things right, just like he had done before and Juan wasn''t going to settle for anything less.


    "I''m losing hair Slick, look!" Big Tony pointed at his receding hairline, the line that was covered with the looming appearance of grey hairs.


    "My daughter is getting married and I''m going to lose it, F*CKING LOSE IT, IF ONE MORE GOD DAMN PERSON COMPLAINS ABOUT THOSE GUERRA''S-"


    "Easy, easy~" Ricky calmed Big Tony down, the skinny man chain smoking cigarette after cigarette while hysterically venting all his frustrations towards the boss.


    "I''ll handle it, I''ll do it right now." Ricky assured Big Tony, knowing that it was his fault for putting him in this position by always pushing it to the side.


    "Alright boss, I''m gonna go contemplate my life in my car." Big Tony wallowed, pulling out a flask of bourbon and lugging himself back to the car.


    "Geez." Ricky thought, looking around before opening a portal and walking in without a second thought.


    Meanwhile at the Guerra Residence,


    "Boss please, the Luciano''s are our biggest customer-"


    "I don''t care, I DON''T CARE!" Juan roared at his aides, watching them all recoil at his fury.


    "HE DISRESPECTED MY SISTER, HE DISRESPECTED ME, AND HE IS RIGHT BEHIND ME ISN''T HE!" Juan roared, his words mounting with every syllable until he saw his aides eyes slowly trail behind him.


    Turning around, Juan was met with Ricky''s familiar sleazy smile, the kind he hadn''t seen in over three years as he took a deep breath, feeling the tension in the air as Ricky''s presence filled the room.


    "YOU F*CKING BASTARD!" Juan suddenly roared, exploding toward Ricky with all the rage he''d been holding back. Ricky saw the punch coming from a mile away but, with a sly smirk, he decided to let him have that one.


    Crack


    "A-AHHHHHHHHH!" Juan, feeling his hand fracture, yelped out a scream while grabbing his wrist and falling to his knees.


    "Ouch~" Ricky frowned, rubbing his chin as if the punch had actually stung. He watched Juan''s expression twist with confusion, unaware that his body and bone structure were practically superhuman and to a normal person, it would''ve felt like hitting concrete.


    "Listen, let''s talk-"


    "SURPRISE ATTACK!" Juan suddenly interrupted Ricky, pulling his other hand backwards and heaving it at his stomach.


    Crack


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Juan screamed, looking at his hand bent in a weird direction as he once again fell to his knees but without the ability to hold the injury.


    Sigh


    "Just why?" Ricky honestly asked, holding his forehead and looking down at Juan who was trying to hold back the tears.


    "If it didn''t work the first time, then-seriously?" Ricky asked, raising an eyebrow, but his words trailed off as he saw Juan''s hand move toward his side. There, beneath his heel, lay a golden pistol as Ricky sighed, rolling his eyes as he bent down, effortlessly yanking it away from the floor. He gave the gun a casual once-over, a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips as he held it up, almost as if it were some kind of toy.


    "You know that guns literally don''t work on me, right?" Ricky asked, waving it around as Juan closed his eyes tightly in pain before turning away.


    "Shut up." Juan almost pouted, the infamous drug lord acting like some sort of child as his aides at the side heaved out sighs.


    Click


    Click


    Click


    "Oh, thank god~" One of the aides held their chest, heaving out a breath of relief as if the situation would be solved.


    Ricky, turning back with a smile, expecting to see Rosa walking toward him with her usual confident stride, was instead met with an empty view. "Gus?" Ricky asked, having memorized the status screen but finally putting a face to the name as the four year old adjusted his glasses.


    "Hello father, it''s great to finally meet you." Gus happily said, his eyes darting to the aides clutching their hands together in a prayer towards him as he understood the moment in almost an instant.


    "Uh, same," Ricky said, realizing just how different his kids could be from the ordinary ones.


    Gus reminded him of Henry, but with a cold, snake-like aura that didn''t quite match the smile on his face.


    "Whoa, hey, I get this looks bad, but listen, he started it," Ricky quickly explained, glancing down at the golden gun in his hand and then at the broken Juan beneath his feet.


    Sigh


    "I understand, father, but please do not take it to heart. My Uncle Juan is a very passionate man and sometimes gets swept away by the tide of his emotions," Gus explained, his sharp eyes locked on Juan, who immediately looked away, unable to meet the accusatory gaze of his darling nephew.


    "Right, sure." Ricky nodded his head, throwing the golden pistol at one of the aides who bumbled and caught it.


    "Anyways father it''s-"


    "But man, is it good to see you!" Ricky laughed, yanking the well-groomed Gus into his embrace and giving him a bear hug.


    "Look at you, all smart and stuff!" Ricky chuckled, holding Gus up as the kid''s expression twitched, clearly trying to maintain his composure despite the unexpected affection.


    "I know our reunion is sudden, but father, could you please put me down?" Gus coughed, understanding a father and son reunion went along this common basis but didn''t particularly like to be held up in this manner.


    "Oh right, sorry." Ricky realized, putting Gus on his feet to which he regained his manner, adjusting himself.


    "....."


    After that, a looming silence hung in the air as Gus and Ricky stared at each other for a while. Ricky rubbed the back of his head, unsure of what to say next as the moment felt strangely awkward, despite the excitement of their reunion.


    "So uh, how have you been?" Ricky awkwardly asked, watching Gus plainly nod his head since it wasn''t out of character for a father to ask how his estranged son was doing.


    "Currently, I am reading at a seventh-grade reading level and have decided to start kindergarten next year. So as to better develop my social skills with my age group," Gus explained, emphasizing the real reason why he would lower himself to such a grade as his tone was calm, but there was a certain maturity to his words that made it clear he wasn''t entirely joking.


    "Well that''s good, you wanna do that in New York or?" Ricky asked, wondering if he was missing out on his development while staying here.


    "I am content here. I''m already integrating into the Gurrea family matters," Gus explained, his tone steady, as if asserting his place in the situation. But even so, he doubted the adult in front of him would entertain the whimsical antics of a child.


    "Oh, well, alright," Ricky frowned but agreed, realizing that he couldn''t force Gus to uproot everything he''d worked for just because he wanted him to.


    "Excuse me?" Gus, waiting for the words that would negate his own, opened his eyes to the shocking revelation of Ricky looking at him with a passive expression.


    "I mean, I''m not gonna drag you back to New York if you''re happy here, I wouldn''t do that to you." Ricky explained, trying to make it sound all smart-like for Gus but failed, miserably.


    "I do feel bad about leaving you out here to dry and want to make it up to you, but I won''t do that by forcing you to give up everything you know. That would be sh*tty," Ricky bent down, patting Gus''s head. The four-eyed kid looked up at his father, who was the only one who treated him like a person, not just a little kid.


    Ricky was weird in that sense, he always spoke to everyone the same way, no matter their age or status. It often got him into trouble, but right now, it was benefiting Gus, who had never been treated as anything but the kid people assumed he was.


    "Those were Uncle Juan''s intentions by having you come here, so I would have a father figure-"


    "Kiddo, I just came out of a portal that materialized outta thin air, it''ll be fine." Ricky patted his cheek, standing up and looking around.


    "And besides, ain''t no other guy gonna tell me how to raise my kid unless it''s Lucky and he ain''t here." Ricky walked past Gus, continuing to look around and down the hallway.


    "Nice catching up on you Juan, I''m gonna say hi to Rosa while I''m here!" Ricky yelled down the hall, walking away without any care while Gus walked over to Juan.


    "Gus-"


    "Uncle Juan, I know and thank you." Gus smiled, looking at the immature Uncle who literally cut off the cartel''s number one customer so that his father would come and meet him.


    "But you need to continue the shipments and if you have to do it for a reason, do it for me." Gus smiled, his eyes calculating as he pressed at that soft spot in Juan''s heart as the man ducked his head.


    "Fine, but I won''t like it." Juan gnashed his teeth, knowing how lucrative it was to be employed by the Luciano''s and simply bit the bullet.


    "Thank you and if it makes you feel any better, I truly think that I will see my father more because of your actions." Gus'' words eased Juan since although he didn''t have a good relationship with his father, he wanted the one he never had with his father.


    "Rosa, Rosa!" Ricky yelled, peeking in and out of the rooms before arriving in that very room where she had almost sucked him dry so many years ago.


    "Good times~" Ricky chuckled, walking into the room only to see a door tucked away at the very end.


    Click


    A clicking noise resounded from the other side of the door as Ricky raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued as he moved towards it, hand resting on the doorknob, and slowly opened the door.


    "Rosa?" Ricky called out, his voice echoing slightly as he stepped into the darkness. His eyes strained, searching for any sign of movement, but all he could see was an impenetrable shadow, the light barely penetrating the edges of the room.


    For a brief moment, he thought he caught a glimpse of something, an outline, a figure, but before he could fully focus, the light flickered and was cut off, plunging him back into complete obscurity.


    BAM


    The door clicked shut behind him, and Ricky felt an unexpected shiver run down his spine as his ears, now attuned to the silence, caught the faint sound of wet padding. At first, he thought it was a dog, but as the noise continued, he realized it was something far more loose, far more submissive.


    "Oh Ricky, you came back to me~" A familiar moan cried out, followed by the flickering of a switch that revealed a figure long abstained from Ricky''s life.


    "Rosa?" Ricky asked, completely shocked not at the sight of the very woman he was looking for, but the attire.


    Rosa stood before him, her body adorned in attire that was both provocative and purposefully submissive.


    She wore a pair of black crotchless panties, the delicate lace design drawing attention and baring all the supple features that her body had to offer while accentuating them to their fullest.


    Her perky, pointed tits had her nipples decorated with tasseled adornments, each subtle flick of movement causing the tassels to sway gently.


    Around her neck, a red ball gag hung, ready to plug up that drooling mouth of hers and give in to whatever desire the man reflecting in her pupils wanted.


    "Uhhhhhhhhhhh." Ricky was a little speechless, backing up a little bit until his words became long and drawn out of the room before his eyes.


    The dim lighting cast shadows against the walls, where various items were neatly arranged as each tool, restraint, and toy serving a specific purpose. Along one side of the room, a large, intricately designed X-frame stood, its purpose clear in the way the cuffs were positioned, meant to secure a willing partner in place.


    On nearby shelves, an assortment of items with whips, paddles, and other implements, lined up, hinting at the power dynamics that defined the space.


    For some, Ricky''s touch ignited their desire, but for Rosa, it uncovered a deeper longing as this masochistic girl didn''t simply wait for him, she actively prepared.


    "I''ve waited ever since that day, the day you showed me who I really was~" Rosa longingly said, taking a step forward though her crazy eyes betrayed her as Ricky sort of looked around.


    Weirdly enough, this wasn''t Ricky''s first time in a sex dungeon, and the familiarity surprisingly put him at ease as if it had been, he''d have been even more speechless.


    Huff


    Huff


    "I was always so scared of what people would think of me if they knew, the real me~" Rosa huffed, her face blushing furiously as they trailed down to the outline of his crotch.


    "But you accepted me, filled me with your love, time and time again." Rosa licked her lips, shedding the innocent, quiet persona she wore for others since with Ricky, she was finally able to be the woman she''d always known herself to be.


    "But lately I''ve been so bad, so, so, very bad~" Rosa almost pouted, walking over to Ricky with her nipple tassel''s swaying gently.


    "I need to be punished, Ricky, I need you to punish this bad, bad girl~" Rosa didn''t even try to act, showing a wide smile as her eyes filled with the reflection of Ricky.


    "Rosa-"


    "Anything, you can do anything to me as long as you use my body to your cock''s whims, hit me and fill me up so I can feel that warmth from back then~" Rosa moaned, rubbing her crotch against his pant leg and having his second pair already ruined by her dripping juices.


    Even if Ricky had wanted to, at this point, Rosa was too far lost in her own world to hear anything that didn''t involve a command or foreplay. This moment had been building over the years, layer upon layer, as she fantasized about their reunion over and over again, until it culminated in expectations on top of expectations. She dreamed of her body being ravaged by him once more, utterly destroyed, as the pain he etched into her skin marked her with his claim and gave her the gift of surrender.


    That addicting feeling resonated deep in her core, and unlike Alina, Rosa didn''t try to quell it. She embraced it as her mind and the room were filled with all the toys she hoped Ricky would use on her, her body aching with an unbearable urgency for him to command her, to dominate her as the submissive woman she always knew herself to be.


    Sigh


    "F*ck it, I''m already hard." Ricky threw caution to the wind, unzipping his pants as Rosa slammed her head into his chest.


    "Tell me what you want to do with my body, I''ll do anything-" Rosa babbled, her words tumbling out in a flood of desire. But the first thing Ricky did was silence that lustful mouth of hers, shoving a red ball gag between her lips.


    Instead of showing displeasure, she gagged out a manic chuckle, eagerly awaiting the moment she''d be used, just like the perfect sex doll she had always dreamed of becoming.


    "Uh, I guess go chain yourself to that X-frame thingy." Ricky commanded, having only been around dominatrix''s before and never a sub like Rosa.


    Rosa bolted to the side, obeying her master''s orders as she immediately began securing herself to the X-frame. But as she did, she deliberately slowed down, casting a sly side-eye at Ricky, fully aware he was watching. Her hips swayed ever so slightly, the subtle wag of her ass a silent invitation, a tease meant to test his patience.


    Slap


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Rosa huffed out a muffled moan, shivering intensely at the sharp sting of Ricky''s slap, his handprint searing itself onto her left ass cheek. Instead of finishing the task of strapping in her left wrist and ankles, her body betrayed her, spasming from the sheer force of the impact.


    Ricky had hit her a little too hard, but for any normal person, that might''ve drawn tears but Rosa, however, came. Love juices spilled down the insides of her thighs as her body quivered, her knees buckling beneath her. She wobbled, half-collapsing, her bound ankle still hooked onto the frame, leaving her exposed and trembling, lost in the overwhelming pleasure of submission.


    "Already?" Ricky asked, almost disappointed that it only took one slap but that very act of demeaning Rosa made her arch her head up.


    "Jesus Christ, Rosa, you really are a freak." Ricky chuckled, shaking his head but if his cock had done this to her, he might as well take responsibility and indulge her.


    Walking over to the side, he reached for a long, black leather flogger, its multiple strips designed to spread sensation across a wider area. Testing the weight in his hand, he glanced back at Rosa, her body still trembling, bound yet desperate for more as a slow smirk crept onto his lips.


    "Let''s see just how much of a freak you really are."


    Thwip


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Rosa spasmed again, a shuddering gasp escaping her gagged mouth as the flogger''s leather strips struck her slick, swollen folds. The sharp sting intertwined with pleasure, gripping her core in a vice of agonizing ecstasy. Her bound body trembled, her thighs twitching as another wave of heat pooled between them, surrendering completely to Ricky''s merciless touch.


    "Again, seriously?" Ricky scoffed, though amusement laced his tone.


    Thwip


    The flogger struck her drenched folds once more, inciting out another spray not authorized by the dom.


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Rosa''s body convulsed, her wrists straining against the bindings as the shock of pain and pleasure crashed over her in a messy, uncontrollable wave.


    "I thought only I could allow you to cum, but I guess not," Ricky mocked, his voice dripping with condescension. He was weirdly getting into it now, something about Rosa''s pathetic, quivering form unlocking a side of him he didn''t even know he had.


    Kicking off his shoes, he pressed his bare foot onto her head, shoving her face down against the cold floor.


    "Look at you, acting like some b*tch in heat, while your family still thinks you''re some nai?ve little angel." Ricky said, letting out a low chuckle tha rumbled from his throat, but there was something darker beneath it, something raw. His sadistic side bled through, those ever-present bags under his eyes speaking of more than just sleep deprivation, they were the weight of stress, of pressure, of a life that demanded too much.


    And now, without even realizing it, he had found his second way to vent.


    His second cum dumpster.


    "Huh, got anything to say to everyone out there who thinks the world of you?" Ricky vented, pressing his foot harder against Rosa''s face, grinding her cheek into the cold floor.


    She let out a muffled whimper, her body trembling beneath him, completely at his mercy as the humiliation, the control, it only made her wetter.


    "Huh?" Ricky gritted his teeth, his jaw tightening as the weight of everything pressed down on him. Even now, even here, it all came back to the family, always the f*cking family, the very thing he proved himself to want but of course, like always, he was completely unprepared for what the title and responsibilities entailed.


    His pulse pounded in his ears, his frustration boiling over into something visceral, something he could finally control. THWIP The flogger snapped against Rosa''s trembling body, the force of the impact sending another violent shudder through her. She collapsed further, her limbs twitching, the sharp sting pushing her deeper into that intoxicating haze of pain and pleasure. "Huh?!" Ricky barked, bringing the flogger down again, harder this time. THWIP Rosa''s muffled cries were soaked in bliss, her body surrendering entirely, lost in the intoxicating punishment. "Come on, Rosa. You can cum all you want, but you can''t give me a damn answer?" Ricky asked, reaching down and pulling out the ball gag that drooled out her smile.


    "I''m sorry, master~" Rosa slurred, her voice thick with bliss, her body soaked in everything she had ever craved. She hazily looked up at Ricky, her dazed eyes blinking sluggishly.


    But instead of staying still, her disoriented vision flickered and one moment, her face was shoved against the floor, the next, she was staring up at him.


    She tried to speak, to say something, but the familiar ball gag pushed deeper into her mouth, forcing her tongue down, silencing any words before they could escape.


    Then, without warning, darkness consumed her world.


    Ricky tightened the blindfold around her eyes, his fingers firm and precise as he had finished strapping her to the X-frame himself, ensuring she was bound exactly how he wanted.


    Now, she was truly his to play with.


    ''Man, this is oddly relieving.'' Ricky thought, raising the flogger once more. He brought it down with precision against Rosa''s exposed skin.


    BAM


    Her head snapped back, colliding with the wall as the force of the strike jolted through her. Her bound body shivered under the ruthlessness of the sudden, violent act, that stained her skin by the lash. The sting radiated through her, only to be replaced by an overwhelming flood of warmth, her body betraying her with a steady flow of desire that dripped from her folds.


    However, Ricky frowned, his gaze briefly flickering over the room before he moved toward the corner. He returned moments later, holding a dozen or so candles. Each was levitated into the air by his psychic constructs, suspended like fragile objects caught in a magnetic pull.


    With a flick of his fingers, the candles ignited, flames flickering to life with an unnatural intensity.


    But instead of the soft glow they might have once offered, they burned violently, their flames twisting and flaring as though alive.


    The fire shifted mid-air, bending and curving toward Rosa, who lay in silent, eager submission below. The flames, like vengeful tongues, pointed downward at her prone form, the heat rising to scorch her skin as they hovered, threatening to cover her in their waxy forms.


    Drip


    The first drop of molten wax landed on her skin, its searing heat causing a sharp intake of breath.


    The wax spread quickly, pooling across her outstretched arms and the delicate bare chest that was laced by her lingerie, the sensation both painful and incredibly exhilarating.


    Drip A muffled moan escaped her lips as the hot wax continued its slow descent, each drop a perfect mix of burn and pleasure. Her eyelids fluttered beneath the blindfold, unable to anticipate the next searing drop as the wax dripped and splattered onto her body, the heat and weight of it igniting a tension deep inside her.


    THWIP


    *MUFFL-


    Drip


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Rosa gasped as the flogger slashed across her chest, the sting leaving a fiery trial on her skin but before she could fully process the rush of sensations, hot wax dripped onto her body, searing her with its warmth. The combination of pain and heat sent her spiraling, her body convulsing as a wave of pleasure washed over her, forcing a muffled moan from her lips. The climax hit her in a powerful, uncontrollable spasm, each sensation amplifying the next.


    "Let''s get rid of these," Ricky hummed, pulling off the nipple tassels before reaching for the nipple clamps. He pinched them onto her nipples, the cold metal biting into her skin as he tightened them, the pressure building until the two pins were nearly pressed together. Rosa shivered, the pressure on her nipples heightening her anticipation, her body trembling from the intensity of it all as Ricky continued to push her further. When her nipples were squeezed so tightly they almost turned white, he reached for the unlubed anal beads, the cold smoothness contrasting with her warmth. Without hesitation, he pressed them against her already stretched entrance, then pushed them inside, each bead filling her deeper.


    MUFFLED MOAN


    It was as if a ten-magnitude earthquake had shaken the room the way Rosa trembled, her body wracked with sensation. She tried to scream, but her words were muffled by the ball gag, the room padded and sealed, ensuring no sound could escape to the outside.


    "Come on, it''s only the third bead," Ricky chuckled, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes as he couldn''t help but feel this rush, this feeling of control, his stress dissipating as he inflicted pain on Rosa.


    ''Is this what Agatha feels?'' Ricky thought, finally feeling just a smidge of what Agatha gets off on whenever she tries to dominate him.


    His nonchalant demeanor stood in sharp contrast to Rosa''s spasming, spewing form, her body like putty in Ricky''s hands, completely at his mercy. The anal beads slid deeper into her already stretched, ruined ass, a result of Ricky''s previous indulgences. Her body had been used as a reward in the past, and now, the familiar sting of being filled came with ease.


    As the last bead slid inside, her stretched entrance was finally plugged by the handle, a tight fit that made her gasp through the chokehold of her gag.


    Once that was finally done, Ricky was left with the pressure of his unfulfilled erection which made his frown evident.


    The X-frame, with her legs bound, hadn''t left him the option to f*ck her as he desired without making it a weird position.


    So, without any care, he selfishly altered the situation to suit his needs. Ripping the ankle restraints off, he gripped her slick, wet thighs, almost losing his hold from how soaked they were. Her skin was slick with the evidence of her arousal, her juices staining her thighs as they continued to flood from her.


    BAM


    "It''s like I never left~" Ricky grunted, thrusting deeply into her, his cock sinking into her slick folds like a waterslide as her juices splashed outwards.


    The X-frame slammed against the padded walls, the harshness of his brutal thrusts echoing through the room. But in the thick silence, that sound was the only thing that reverberated within the padded confines.


    Rosa''s desperate pleas were silenced, her moans of heat caught in the red ball gag, the sound swallowed back into her throat as her folds writhed, squeezed under that familiar punishing force of his cock.


    BAM


    BAM


    BAM


    The X-frame relentlessly slammed against the wall behind them, each violent thrust punishing the woman bound to it under Ricky''s control. Rosa endured it all, her body pinned and broken by the culmination of every twisted fantasy she''d ever had, fulfilled by the brutal force of Ricky''s cock.


    Her pussy was being relentlessly rammed, brutalized, while her ass clenched around the beads, filling her stretched insides with a suffocating pressure. Her nipples burned, the clamps digging in as if they might tear from the strain and if it couldn''t get any more pain-inducing.


    Drip


    Drip


    Hot wax continued to drip onto her tortured form, each drop adding to the blend of pain and pleasure that melted into something almost transcendental. It was a beautiful, masochistic symphony that reduced Rosa to nothing more than Ricky''s personal plaything, her body became limp, pliant under his hold, and it all culminated into everything she ever wanted.


    "God, you''re so fucking disgusting. Imagine if everyone saw how ugly you really are," Ricky''s husky voice rang out, the words searing into her mind as they added fuel to the fire. The cruel demeaning tone echoed in her ears as she rolled her head back, the force of his thrusts making her slam against the frame as she wanted to tell him how much she loved him in that moment.


    "You''re a mother to your son, a sister to your brother."


    BAM


    "But a f*cking whore to me~" Ricky chuckled, his voice laced with sadistic amusement as he reveled in just dropping the act of being a bigger person for once. Almost thriving on treating Rosa like nothing more than a slut, living only for the thought of his cock.


    Her nerves screamed under the brutal treatment, desperately crying out towards her nervous system, begging for any sort of reprieve.


    But her slutty body betrayed her, converting each wave of agony into pleasure, her juices flowing freely from her aching, whorish form.


    Bound in place, impaled and molded beneath his cock, utterly degraded to nothing more than a toy, she had only one thing left to do.


    MUFFLED MOAN


    MUFFLED MOAN


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Loud, muffled moans spilled from her, urging Ricky on, as she communicated just how much more punishment this bad girl craved. She needed it all, the pain, the degradation, to make her feel like she could be the good girl everyone thought she was.


    Then, as if Rosa could take any more of Ricky''s punishment, his movements intensified, driving his cock forward at an unsettling, vicious pace. His teeth gnashed together, eyes burning with his selfish need to release his pent-up stress that accumulated over this past month into the submissive girl completely at his mercy. So, without any care for this sub, Ricky wound his hips and then slammed everything into her spasming folds, pushing her to the brink, then breaking her.


    "FUCK~" Ricky grunted, his cock erupting with the relief that had been building in him, the weight of everything around him finally releasing with his cum spurting into Rosa.


    Ricky exhaled sharply, feeling that euphoric sense of release wash over him, but the weight didn''t simply disappear but merely transitioned onto another.


    Rosa''s body was spasming under his hold, her muscles twitching uncontrollably, her mind fractured and reassembled by the relentless pursuit of his selfish desires, just like before. As if the wave of nostalgia hit like the tidal wave of his cum, it flooded her with an impregnating euphoria that sank deep to her very core, choking her of any self-worth she had left and shedding herself bare before Ricky.


    It had become a twisted tradition, each time pushing her further than she thought she could endure. Her thoughts shattered again, scattering like glass under his force as her body, already molded and reformed by his touch, was stretched past the boundaries she''d once set for herself once again. Every inch of her screamed with the overwhelming, mind-f*cking intensity of it, and just like that innocent girl she had once been in Ricky''s hold, it was no longer something she could stop or even try to understand. For Rosa, this was fate, this was everything and more, surpassing the very out of reach fantasies that she had hoped, leaving her drowning in a pleasure induced by a all encompassing pain. THUMP


    Rosa''s spasms finally gave way, her body crumpling to the ground as the bindings that once propped her up now released, collapsing her used body onto the ground like the useless doll she had become.


    The cherry on top of it all was that mark, that body deforming instance that was his cum swirling in her inflated womb.


    Signaling that his cock had once again forever altered her body and would give birth to an even greater desire that sought to outdo the last.


    THUMP


    Rosa''s spasms finally gave way, her body crumpling to the ground as the bindings that once propped her up now released, collapsing her used body onto the ground like the useless doll she had become.


    Reduced to the very ground beneath Ricky''s feet, she had no strength left in her body, the body that was completely at the use of the very man currently contorting them to his will.


    Then, it was as if invisible strings tethered her limbs, her body turned into some sort of marionette, positioned and pulled to whatever Ricky had in store.


    "Don''t tell me you thought it was over?" Ricky whispered, jerking his hands upwards as the face that was currently drooling on the floor was suddenly pulled upwards.


    It was then that Rosa''s head was limply held in the air, swaying gently, bobbing until one hand forced it upwards.


    "Look at you, look at the slut you''ve become."" Ricky chuckled, grabbing her slobbered chin and forcing it upwards toward the mirror, where her newly bound form was reflected. No longer the X-frame of before, Rosa''s wrists were now encased in leather cuffs, a matching necklace resting against her skin. A collar circled her neck, the chain connecting all the pieces, pulling her upper body upright with a harsh tug. The sight of her, reduced and remade, was only amplified by his cock which currently wedged itself between her folds which stopped the continuous dripping of his cum.


    Now fully propped up by Ricky''s whims, Rosa''s limp form hung at his mercy as he gripped her chin, wiggling it with a mocking laugh that echoed in her ears, sending a chill down her spine.


    Every motion of his felt like an intrusion, degrading her to a whole new level, as though she was even useless as a sex doll.


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Yet, through all of it, Rosa moaned nonetheless with the crying, whimpering of a b*tch still in heat.


    Even now, with the little strength she had, Rosa wiggled that perky ass of hers at the mercy of his wedged cock.


    "You want it, right?" Ricky asked, his grip tightening under the chain as he slowly started to wrap it around her already collared neck. It was then, as if Ricky couldn''t take anything more from this poor girl, he suddenly pulled on the chain as if to take the last of her humanity, the very thing she was entitled to by birth, and completely turn her into nothing but an object for his pleasure.


    But he wasn''t just taking her humanity; he was going to strangle it out of her, piece by piece, until nothing was left but the title ''Cum Dumpster 2''.


    THWAP


    Her folds squelched, sloppy giving away as his cock once again pounded into her flesh and tore into her being.


    Yet, not even a muffled moan escaped her lips as the chain, strangling its presence around her neck, blocking any sound, any form of response. It pressed harder, squeezing the air from her lungs, leaving her breathless, suffocating under the threat of death and in return, instead of a cry, instead of sporadic movements to escape, her insides smothered Ricky''s cock as she clenched down, seemingly rewarding him.


    Ramping back his hips, Ricky didn''t hesitate to thrust it all back into Rosa, pounding her guts into a wet, mushy substance that would barely function without any other purpose than to service his cock.


    Marks began to form around Rosa''s neck, bruising under the strain as the chain was pulled tighter. The pressure increased, draining the color from her face, leaving her skin ghostly pale and slowly, a faint blue tint clouded over her features, the air choking from her lungs as life was squeezed out.


    Her body was pushed to its limits, every nerve firing on all cylinders, every primal instinct that had evolved over centuries sounding out in her head, the very same ones that are present in every living being. Yet, in this moment, all of it, the natural responses, the survival instincts, was utterly and irreversibly shattered under Ricky''s cock.


    THWAP


    Because Rosa didn''t look afraid, not scared, not even the slightest hint of fear in her eyes. Instead, that same smile, the one that had shattered the innocent girl she once was, twisted across her face once again. It was almost as if she welcomed the destruction, the end of what she had been. The pleasure she felt was overwhelming, mind-ripping, her body alternating between tension and release. For the first time, Rosa truly felt as if her body was no longer her own, lost in the sensations that consumed her and she loved every single second of it.


    THWAP


    Ricky didn''t even glance at the bluish tint spreading across her face, nor the smile that lingered despite it all. Instead, he closed his eyes, letting the tension fade away, feeling a release greater than anything therapy could offer as he lost himself in the moment, he continued to utterly ruin Rosa.


    With every thrust, every pulsing, frantic ram of his cock into Rosa''s loose, gaping pussy, Ricky felt the stress that had piled up inside him begin to release, like the stack of papers on his desk slowly toppling over.


    Under the destruction of Rosa''s body, Ricky found a strange sense of peace, smiling as her head rocked back and forth, salvia drooling all around like the dog she had become as her eyes fluttered, as if her consciousness might slip away at any moment.


    THWAP


    "Woah~" Ricky opened his eyes, gritting his teeth as his cock released the last bit of stress that had been plaguing his being and spurting it all into Rosa.


    "I think-....I think I get mediation now." Ricky whispered to himself, slamming one more mini-thrust into Rosa before releasing his grip on the chain.


    THUMP


    While Ricky was having his nirvana moment, Rosa''s body limply fell to the ground as her womb deformed under the second load that sprayed into it, expanding it like some sort of balloon on the verge of popping.


    The chain, still wrapped tightly around her neck, loosened just enough so that air could breath through her snot-filled nose.


    Twitching vigorously, Rosa knew that after today, she would never be the same. The very thing she had craved had come true, and Ricky saw her for nothing more than the sex doll she had always dreamed of becoming.


    "Alright, well, I got like twenty more minutes until I gotta go back."


    THWAP


    As Ricky yanked her limp hips up, growing bored of the chain and delivering the most aggressive backshots spirling into her limp form, Rosa could only respond to it all with one singular reaction.


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Author''s Note: This was supposed to be just one mindf*ck of a huge chap but I ended up getting a migraine and split it up so contiune to swip or scroll down and behold to an extra chap.

 Chapter 168 - 161: The Problem With Addiction (R18) Second Half

    Chapter 168 - 161: The Problem With Addiction (R18) Second Half


    ZIP


    "Gotta be what therapy is like, it''s gotta be." Ricky said to himself, knowing he hadn''t felt this relieved in a while.


    "Hey are you doing anything next thursday?" Ricky realized, trying to book another session as he turned around to Rosa lying stark naked on the floor.


    Cum streaking out of her holes while she was still bound in place by the very toys Ricky had tied her down with.


    "Haahesbaskalge~" Rosa whispered gibberish, her teeth having bitten clean through the ball gag as it swirled in her mouth.


    "I''m gonna take that as a yes," Ricky muttered, nodding as he pulled away. He turned to close the door behind him, only to freeze at the sight of Gus standing there.


    "WHAT THE-" Ricky flinched, eyes widening at his prim and proper son, clearly caught off guard.


    "Jesus Christ, Gus, put a bell around your neck or something," Ricky sighed, rubbing his temple before glancing between the door and his son, with a reluctant sigh, he motioned him forward.


    "I''m guessing you didn''t want a goodbye hug or anything like that?" Ricky asked, nudging the kid on the shoulder only for Gus to shake his head slightly, his gaze flickering toward the door before settling back on his father.


    "Not with those hands, no," Gus shot back, his words laced with dry disgust.


    The realization was clear on his face, he knew exactly what was behind that door but it wasn''t his business, and that''s why he kept walking forward.


    "Wow, so icy~" Ricky teased, pinching his face as Gus reeled back in disgust and hurriedly stepped forward.


    "Stop that-"


    "Stop what?" Ricky asked, prodding Gus with a smirk, acting like a child while the actual child played the adult.


    "I mean it, Father. It is not funny." Gus'' voice was firm as he quickened his pace, breaking into a full-blown sprint.


    "Really? Cause I think it''s hilarious!" Ricky laughed, still faster, effortlessly keeping up as he toyed with his son, chasing him around the manor.


    While this was taking place, Juan, his hands still wrapped in bandages, went looking for Gus, only to stop in his tracks at the sight before him.


    The upright child, the same one who had been trying to shoulder the burdens of the cartel far too early, actually looked like a kid for once.


    "STOP IT! DO NOT GET YOUR DIRTY HANDS ON ME!" Gus shouted, sprinting at full speed as Ricky cackled viciously behind him, chasing him all around the backyard.


    The reason Juan wanted his nephew to go to New York was that he believed being confined to the compound wouldn''t be good for him.


    But at this moment, Juan realized it might be better to let Gus live as he wished, guiding him rather than forcing his will upon him.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    Gus was out of breath, stumbling to his knees, his vicious glare locking onto Ricky, who cackled while rinsing his hands at a nearby hose.


    "Man, you gotta get out more." Ricky joked, not even breaking a sweat as he wiped his hand on a nearby rag.


    "Well, the neighboring cartels have been gunning for my uncle lately, so my mother and I have been locked up here for our safety," Gus promptly disclosed, private information shared with someone who wasn''t really an outsider.


    "If you want some help-"


    "We are fine, I''m sure that the Lucaino family is already busy enough as it is-"


    Snap


    Ricky suddenly flicked Gus'' head, cutting him off mid-sentence. The small child immediately rubbed the sore spot, his glare fierce but laced with something venomous.


    "Aye, don''t say it like that," Ricky chuckled, crouching down to meet Gus at eye level before tapping his chest.


    "You''re a Luciano, and Luciano''s look after their own." Ricky smiled, patting his son''s cheek before rising to his feet.


    "I''ll never be too busy to help you, just don''t be a sissy and reach out," Ricky said, opening a portal.


    Gus flinched at the sight, the raw power of it something he had never known.


    "See ya later, killer." Ricky winked before stepping through, leaving behind only those parting words.


    Young and impressionable, Gus frowned, his gaze dropping to where Ricky had tapped his heart while rubbing it slightly.


    "Luciano''s look after their own, huh?


    Meanwhile At Italiano''s,


    A portal opened up, Ricky ready to finally start his day¡ªonly to spot Samuel sitting in a nearby chair, his hollow eyes fixed on him.


    "No-"


    "Slick-"


    "No, I gotta get back to work-"


    "Agatha says she needs you, and I don''t get it, but she was serious." Samuel sighed, his tone indifferent as he opened a portal of his own.


    "I''m just the messenger. Do with that as you see fit." Samuel relayed the message and left, already moving on to his other duties.


    Ricky''s gaze drifted to the towering stack of papers on his desk as he knew that if he didn''t handle them now, he''d only have more work tomorrow.


    But then Agatha''s face flashed in his mind, and he groaned, dragging a hand down his face.


    Sigh


    "Fucking hell~" Ricky sighed heavily, opening a portal and walking through it.


    The moment he stepped through, he found himself in Staten Island, the new home of Agatha''s coven.


    The place looked no different than before, a nondescript neighborhood that held a secret under its mundane exterior.


    This borough was more tucked away than the others, with a lower population but a tightly-knit community.


    It was a place where tension simmered beneath the surface, as the existing residents felt the shift in their dynamic.


    However, Agatha''s political acumen smoothed over any concerns, having spent so much time among humans that she knew exactly how to keep the peace.


    As Ricky walked down the street, the residents didn''t quite recognize him until he neared a particular section of the neighborhood, carved out specifically for the coven.


    Only when he entered the northern part of Staten Island did the true landscape begin to unfold.


    The rumors about the Lucky Corporation being built here weren''t just talk.


    There were two head offices under construction, one in downtown New York to appease the government, and another hidden beneath the veil of the coven''s operations.


    Unlike before, when they''d concealed themselves under an illusion, the coven had shifted tactics as they were hiding in plain sight now.


    Stores were being built, residents were settling into suburban life, and the coven as a whole was attempting to blend in.


    However, there were still outliers, many members of the coven, wearing their traditional robes and witch attire, lingered around, clearly out of place among the mundane life being constructed around them.


    But all in all, the coven was settling under the new rule of the Luciano family, with Ricky''s project already beginning to unfold.


    The groundwork was being laid, and things seemed to be moving smoothly, however, there were still slight hiccups that remained, issues that would need to be addressed by the next generation.


    The new balance was fragile, and it would take time for everything to fall into place, but for now, the Luciano family''s influence was beginning to shape the future of Staten Island, with the coven firmly embedded within it.


    "Hey!" a child called out, a pack of ragtag kids surrounding him.


    Ricky turned to face the group of rough-looking kids, each of them eyeing him with what appeared to be a stink eye to Ricky.


    ''Don''t tell me I gotta beat up-''


    "Can we have your autographs!" The group, clearly trying to look tougher than they were, held out pieces of paper towards Ricky, their eyes full of anticipation.


    Ricky, momentarily caught off guard, blinked at them, processing the words and looking down at the paper, then back up at him.


    "Huh?"


    Although Ricky was respected within the Italian community, revered in the mutant world, he was actually idolized in the coven.


    Even though Ricky barely used his grimoire, his status as a warlock still carried immense weight. His deeds didn''t go unheard, especially with Agatha constantly bolstering them.


    She knew the value of his power, and her influence within the coven ensured that his name was spoken with respect and reverence.


    While Ricky might not flaunt his abilities openly, Agatha made sure the whispers of his actions which made the next generation actually see him as a role model funnily enough since they heard his tales about Dracula, with the new ones already being spun about him defeating the witch hunters.


    "Yeah, why not." Ricky shrugged, grabbing the pieces of paper and starting to sign his name repeatedly.


    "W-We also joined the family, to follow you!" the kid piped up, trying to look cool, but the stars in his eyes contrasted heavily.


    "Us too!" The other patted their chest, looking at Ricky who handed them each back his autograph.


    "Oh yeah, how''s it going?" Ricky asked, already sensing there were some problems, his mind drifting to the usual issues between the normie and mutant sectors. But he was wrong.


    "Boss, they just don''t get how cool you are!" The kid revealed, grimacing at the fact as the others nodded in agreement.


    They were clearly frustrated, their tough exteriors betraying how much they valued Ricky''s approval.


    Although both the coven and the Italian community had very hierarchical structures, they were vastly different in their approach to power and respect.


    The Italian community, at its core, was a family.


    It operated like a congregation of like-minded individuals, bound together by tradition, loyalty, and shared values.


    It thrived on respect, cooperation, and the understanding that everyone had a role to play, from the lowliest associate to the boss at the top.


    While there were levels within the hierarchy, the community functioned more like a network of allies who supported one another, each person contributing in their own way.


    The coven, however, was a pyramid.


    At the foundation were those who were weak, hidden, or untested, and at the apex stood those with immense power and influence, warlocks and witches who had proven their strength.


    In the coven, only power mattered.


    It wasn''t about family bonds or shared history; it was about survival and growth.


    This mentality had been ingrained in the witches and warlocks ever since the days of New Salem, where their existence was constantly threatened.


    In such an environment, nurturing talent wasn''t just a choice, it was a necessity since weakness was not tolerated, for the coven''s very survival depended on those strong enough to defend it from external threats.


    Those who remained weak were either cast aside or met with harsh consequences which is why so many fields of magic studies were conducted so as to contribute to the coven as a whole.


    Strength was revered but it was not specifically defined, and those at the top were the ones who commanded respect through their achievements, while those below were expected to prove their worth constantly.


    So, when the Italian community came to respect and acknowledge Ricky, it didn''t sit well with the younger generation within the coven.


    To them, Ricky wasn''t just another figure to be respected as part of a community; he was a symbol of something else entirely.


    They believed he should be on a pedestal, a place of absolute authority that only the strongest in their ranks were supposed to occupy.


    To see him operating at the level of mere associates, kids who, in their eyes, hadn''t yet earned that kind of stature, was an insult.


    The Italian community''s sense of familial respect clashed with the coven''s cutthroat logic.


    In the eyes of the younger coven members, Ricky''s placement on the same level as everyone else was a slight against the very nature of what strength and dominance meant in their world.


    It wasn''t about love, loyalty, or respect; it was about proving who had the power, and in their eyes, Ricky should be proving it at the top, not alongside them.


    "Aye, I get it''s gonna be tough, but know this, you guys are the future of the family," Ricky said, looking down at the young warlocks and witches as their eyes sparkled with renewed hope as his words took hold.


    "The Luciano Family runs New York. Soon, the coven will fully integrate into it, and you''ll be the foundation of what our family becomes in the future." Ricky''s voice was steady and confident, his hand reaching out to pat one of the kids on the cheek, a gesture full of both reassurance and challenge.


    "Remember, Luciano''s look after their own, and you''ll be fine." Ricky''s words rang with finality as he turned to leave, his back to the kids as he started walking down the street, waving over his shoulder.


    "Don''t worry boss, leave it to us!"


    Ricky walked down the street, an odd sense of discomfort creeping over him. Instead of the usual bowing heads, the coven treated him almost like a savior, handing him random trinkets, flowers, and small tokens of gratitude.


    He didn''t expect it, and it left him feeling strangely out of place, like he was being overwhelmed but instead of attention, it was gifts.


    When he finally reached the new house Agatha had bought, a mansion that stood out even amidst the rest, Ricky was already carrying an armful of various gifts, entirely from the coven.


    He pushed open the grand doors, the weight of the random offerings heavy in his arms, and walked inside.


    The mansion greeted him with its luxurious, pristine interior, but it felt oddly empty since they had just moved in.


    "DADDY!" Zatanna lunged at his leg, wrapping herself around it like a koala clinging to a branch.


    "HIT, HIT, HIT!" Johnny shouted, rushing at Ricky with a wooden sword in hand. He swung it at Ricky''s other leg, landing a few playful blows.


    "Actually shameless to come at me with stuff in my hands." Ricky frowned, watching his two kids giggle manically.


    With a sigh, he lugged them forward, finally dropping all the gifts onto the kitchen table before looking down at Zatanna laughing and Johnny hitting him.


    "Where''s your mother?" Ricky asked, picking them both up and kissing Zatanna on the cheek.


    "Not telling!" Zatanna laughed, kissing Ricky back on the cheek as he went to do the same to Johnny only to avoid being hit with the sword.


    "Hey, watch it." Ricky frowned, taking away the wooden sword and throwing it onto the wooden table as Johnny started to pout.


    "But I hit things~" Johnny, in a broken speech, pouted as Ricky kissed his blond hair before setting them both down.


    "Ya gotta pace yourself, can''t just go around hitting everything... right?" Ricky chuckled, only to see Johnny turn his head to the side, a clear indication that he''d been doing exactly that.


    "Johnny, right?" Ricky asked again, eyeing his guilty son, who had been going around hitting everything in sight.


    "Young mistress Zatanna, young master Johnny, where are you?"


    A sudden call echoed through the house, and Ricky turned to see a familiar figure. The kids, on the other hand, recognized her immediately.


    "Grandma Ginny!" They cried out excitedly, rushing over to her.


    Ricky looked at the elderly woman, who was, in fact, Agatha''s old apprentice. Ginny, with a sweet smile, scooped up the giggling children before casting a scowl in Ricky''s direction.


    "Ricky," Ginny spat, her disdain palpable as she looked at the very man who was the other half of such lovely children.


    "Lindsy," Ricky nodded, addressing her with the name she hated as Ginny''s smile, now laced with venom, didn''t go unnoticed.


    "If you''re wondering where the woman who''s too good for you is, she''s upstairs," Ginny said, her voice dripping with false warmth as they both knew it was just an act for the kids.


    "Oh, thank you, and one more thing, Lindsy," Ricky chuckled, walking toward the stairs with the sweetest smile, one that would never reach his eyes.


    "Go f*ck yourself," Ricky added, his grin widening as he walked away. Ginny''s face turned pale as the kids tilted their heads in confusion.


    "What does f*ck mean-"


    "Nothing, my lovies, nothing," Ginny quickly covered, trying to maintain her composure.


    Ricky ascended the stairs with a frustrated frown, pushing open the office door to find Agatha, her reading glasses perched on her nose, engrossed in a stack of reports.


    "Alright I''m here, what''s the problem?" Ricky asked, spreading out his arms since he lugged himself all the way here because Agatha needed him.


    "And also, wouldn''t it be easier to go out, find the most venomous snake, put an apron on it, and make that the nanny for the two?" Ricky asked, genuinely curious, as he walked over to Agatha, who hadn''t even noticed his arrival.


    "Agatha~" Ricky sensually whispered, leaning down and planting both of his hands on her shoulders, slowly rubbing away the tension along with her gaze.


    Sigh


    "I''m sorry-" Agatha sighed, placing her hand over Ricky''s, clearly exhausted from the constant pressure of work.


    Like him, she had been juggling multiple tasks, which kept them both preoccupied.


    "It''s fine, I get it." Ricky leaned down, kissing the top of her head before gently turning her chair to face him. She smiled slowly, her eyes softening.


    "So, why am I here?" Ricky asked, his curiosity piqued as he watched Agatha rise from her seat and step closer, her hand wrapping around his neck.


    "I want another baby." Agatha whispered, raising her gaze up to meet Ricky''s as he kissed her forehead.


    "Alright." Ricky shrugged, feeling a little drained but having enough in the tank to give out a couple of shots.


    "Ha, that''s it?" Agatha asked, watching Ricky start to unbuckle his belt only to freeze at this sudden question.


    "Is there supposed to be something more?" Ricky wondered, thinking it would be cut and dry as Agatha frowned while shaking her head.


    "Oh Ricky, it''s a good thing you''re cute." Agatha sighed heavily, placing her head on his chest while tapping it gently.


    "If this is about work-"


    "It''s not," Agatha sighed, her expression a mixture of frustration and understanding as she knew how hard both of them had to work, constantly running in different directions, consumed by their duties.


    It was the very reason they struggled to find time for each other, to come together and share a moment beyond shared troubles.


    But through all of that, Agatha was finally settling down, building a family, and Ricky was a part of that, however imperfectly.


    Figures, women to be more precise, loomed around him, always complicating matters.


    Agatha, much like Raven, had lived a long life, and her views on relationships were shaped by the many years she had spent understanding power dynamics, alliances, and sacrifice.


    The initial bond between her and Ricky was born of necessity, crossing their bloodlines to tie him to the coven.


    But it hadn''t stayed simple.


    She fell for him, and as time passed, they built something that neither of them expected and still, the structure of their relationship was never fully defined, leaving room for uncertainty.


    Agatha had always understood the intricacies of power, how love and alliances could intertwine.


    She had never expected Ricky to only be hers, especially after the kind of relationship they''d set up at the very beginning.


    They never set clear boundaries when they entered this relationship, so though Agatha felt the sting of jealousy, she never tried to bind Ricky to her will.


    After all, she was the one who initiated this arrangement as she never expected him to be hers alone.


    What she did take solace in was the fact that Ricky saw her as more than just a pawn in their convenient alliance, how he loved her, and that was enough, at the time.


    But, despite her rational mind understanding the dynamics of their relationship, a part of her grew greedy.


    She wanted more.


    More of Ricky''s time, more of his affection.


    Deep down, though she would never admit it to him, she longed for him to focus on her more as to make her the center of his world.


    Ricky''s time, however, was limited.


    He had so many things demanding his attention, and at the end of the day, Agatha often found herself grappling with the reality of the other women in his life and what set them apart.


    So, as much as she understood the complexities of their bond, Agatha couldn''t help but want to be the woman who gave Ricky the most children.


    From an outsider''s perspective, it might seem irrational, even weird, but to Agatha, it wasn''t about being obsessive, it was about securing her place in his life.


    She didn''t want to fall behind or, worse, be left behind and if there ever came a day when Ricky wasn''t there, she wanted to be surrounded by her family, her children, as a constant reminder of the love they shared.


    Agatha wasn''t driven by convenience; she wanted to build a large family because, deep down, it was her way of feeling secure in their bond.


    In her heart, she believed that creating this foundation would not only tie them together, but also solidify their future.


    A future she was determined to shape, with Ricky by her side, as both a partner and the father of their children.


    "I just-......I just want more." Agatha truthfully said, petting Ricky''s chest as he held her close with his pants wrapped around his ankles.


    "If you wanna talk about it-"


    Snap


    "I''d rather not." Agatha snapped her fingers, the office slowly morphing into a sex dungeon way more sophisticated than Rosa''s novice one.


    "Oh good~" Ricky was relieved, letting himself be pushed back onto the bed with black leather covers.


    "For a second there, I thought we were about to have a heart-to-heart-and I''m tied up." Ricky chuckled, reaching to wipe the sweat off his forehead, only to realize he was fully bound to the bed.


    "But in the good way~" Agatha purred, clad in a sleek black leather suit, the zippers undone to reveal her perky breasts and the curve of her body.


    Snap


    Agatha snapped her fingers, dispelling the clothes off of Ricky who sort of sighed while looking at her with a pensive stare.


    "What? Isn''t it my turn to be on top?" Agatha asked, strutting over to Ricky in her dominatrix attire.


    "Yeah but-"


    "You always get to go wild, have your way with me, and treat me like some plaything," Agatha taunted, tapping the crop in her hand.


    She tilted her head at Ricky, who wanted to refute her words but couldn''t, having just treated Rosa like a mere sex doll only moments earlier.


    "Ok, fair point, but listen, here''s my response to that." Ricky nodded his head, seeing where she was coming from as she walked onto the bed.


    "I''m a dude." Ricky shrugged in his bindings, being all but honest with Agatha who scoffed.


    "What? It''s true, guys just wanna do it." Ricky laughed, watching Agatha shake her head at this piss poor excuse.


    "Like a caveman, I see a hole, I look at the hole, I fuck the hole, then I bounce. The cycle repeats, but with a woman." Ricky rambled in his own words, fumbling out his reasoning behind his way of f*cking.


    However, his words seemed like nonsense, but underneath, there was a certain crude logic.


    Biologically speaking, humans are driven by a primal urge to procreate, though it''s not always a conscious thought.


    The reason women tend to put more care and emotion into procreation is rooted in the significant biological and resource demands that come with pregnancy and raising a child.


    From a purely evolutionary perspective, women invest a lot more physically, emotionally, and time-wise into the process of childbirth and child-rearing.


    Pregnancy requires a woman''s body to undergo substantial physical changes and provide resources for the developing fetus, such as nutrients and energy.


    After birth, the demands continue, with breastfeeding, nurturing, and protecting the child until it becomes independent.


    This extended involvement means that women, over the course of evolution, have developed a natural tendency to be more selective when it comes to choosing a mate.


    They seek out partners who are capable of providing not just genetic material, but also resources, such as protection, support, and stability, that will ensure the offspring''s chances of survival.


    This selectivity is also tied to emotional investment, as women have a more sustained bond with their children due to the long-term nurturing and caregiving involved.


    It''s not just about the biological process of reproduction, but the emotional and psychological commitment needed to ensure the child grows into a healthy, capable adult.


    For men, however, it''s a different story.


    The process requires only a brief moment and a small contribution of semen to potentially create life.


    From an evolutionary standpoint, the most efficient strategy for a man to pass on his genes is to impregnate as many women as possible, ensuring that his genetic legacy is carried forward.


    Because men don''t face the same long-term physical and emotional investment as women, there''s less biological pressure to be selective.


    The emphasis is on quantity, rather than quality, of partners.


    "Is that your excuse for always whoring around?" Agatha asked, pressing her foot onto his cock and pushing down as he hesitated.


    "No?" Ricky smoothly said, raising an eyebrow as if he didn''t believe it as Agatha hit the crop against her palm.


    Twack


    "Ok, ouch, second of all, this is crazy karma-" Ricky playfully said, watching her hit his thigh with the crop only for his words to unconsciously trail off.


    "Why? Is it because you were doing this with another slut?"


    They locked eyes for a moment, Agatha widening hers as Ricky quickly tried to brush it off.


    "Was she on top?" Agatha asked, her gaze sharpening with deadly intent, the question hanging in the air like a threat that could either shatter or solidify everything between them.


    "No, she''s a hardcore masochist-" Ricky said nonchalantly, but Agatha cut him off, pressing the crop firmly above his mouth, silencing him.


    "Good, because if you ever, EVER, want to touch these ladies, you''ll play along." Agatha replied, relaying her words with the subtle moves of her hand that moved down all of her assetsher voice dripping with calm authority, though her eyes remained cold as she gestured toward the door.


    "But if you really don''t want to, you can leave right now. Just know this, you''ll never come back." Agatha''s tone softened, but there was no warmth in her gaze.


    Agatha chuckled, but the sound was hollow, her grip tightening as something inside her snapped at the thought of losing the one thing they shared, BDSM, being tainted by some sub-slut.


    "Does that mean no fun time-"


    "What do you think?" Agatha asked with a chuckle, knowing she couldn''t force him to do anything but instead, gave him the choice like any other time.


    Either let her have her way with him, or he can have his way with all the sluts he wants, but she''ll be excluded.


    "Fine but there will never be ass play cause I don''t even trim the hedges down there cause I don''t expect any visitors and it''s forever gonna stay that way" Ricky declared, deciding to literally be Agatha''s sex doll as she shrugged at this rule.


    "Fine." Agatha then snapped her fingers, appearing a purple ball gag and a blindfold as Ricky looked at the irony of the situation.


    However instead of pouncing on Ricky, Agatha took her time, savoring the moment as she straddled her prey, her weight pressing him into the mattress.


    Her hands tracing his skin, surveying his arms that were stretched above his head, wrists bound securely in black leather restraints, leaving him completely at her mercy.


    It was salivating for Agatha, licking her lips and pressing her fingers against his, moving them down to caress his cheek while looking upon the blindfold that stole his sight, leaving him in darkness, while the ball gag muffled anything more than muffled groans and grunts.


    She ran her fingers along his bare chest, nails dragging lightly over his skin before dipping lower, teasing the sharp lines of his abdomen.


    "Mmm, look at you," Agatha murmured, even though he couldn''t see her gaze and lowered her black lipsticked lips right above his ears.


    "So helpless. So obedient."


    Ricky let out an irritated grunt, though the twitch on his cock betrayed his anticipation and it only made Agatha smirked.


    Whenever Agatha was with Ricky, he was always on top, always in control, always had that fight in him, but it was her turn to take control, making him surrender to her touch, her pace, her rules.


    Leaning down, she traced the shell of his ear with her tongue, sensually dragging it across his ear before biting the lobe.


    "You''re mine right now, and you''re going to take whatever I give you." Agatha raked her nails down his torso again, a sharp contrast to the warmth of her breath as she kissed the corner of his jaw.


    Agatha smirked as she felt Ricky''s cock throb in her grasp, his body reacting to her every touch despite his muffled protests.


    But just as quickly as she''d wrapped her fingers around him, she pulled back, leaving nothing but empty air and cruel anticipation.


    "So impatient," Agatha mused, slapping his thigh just enough to remind him who was in control.


    "I decide when you get what you want." Agatha let the anticipation build, ghosting her fingers over his sensitive spots but never giving him enough.


    Her tongue was a brush, and his body was the canvas as she traced slow, deliberate strokes from his ear, down the curve of his neck, and across his chest, leaving behind a slick path that cooled against his heated skin.


    Agatha took her time, savoring the way his muscles twitched under her touch as she flicked her tongue over one of his nipples before closing her lips around it, sucking just hard enough to make him tense.


    But right when Ricky thought it couldn''t get any weirder, she grasped his cock once more and squeezed as he instinctively let out a deep, muffled grunt rumbled in his throat, his body betraying him even as he tried to stay still.


    He groaned against the gag, frustration growing with each passing second but Agatha just laughed, running her hand up his shaft before rubbing her palm on his tip.


    Agatha let out a slow, satisfied exhale as her fingers slipped between her slick folds, her own arousal matching the heat radiating from Ricky''s bound body.


    She bit her lip, savoring the sensation, her breath hitching as she circled her clit with lazy, indulgent strokes.


    All the while, she kept herself just out of Ricky''s reach, her lips ghosting over his skin, her breath teasing, but never quite touching where he needed it most.


    "See? You''re already so desperate," Agtha teased, pressing her lips against his throat, feeling his pulse hammering beneath her mouth.


    "I could keep you like this for hours. Helpless. Needy. Mine." Agatha continued, marking his body with her hickies, trailing all across the brush strokes she had drawn with her tongue.


    "But I won''t, I''m not that cruel~" Agatha purred, her tongue flicking out again, forming a wet, sinuous hickey-filled trail down his chest, stopping just to tease over his hardened nipples before she gave one a slow, playful bite.


    Ricky''s body tensed beneath her, a muffled sound vibrating through the gag, looking to the side before laughing through the ball gag.


    She dragged her nails down his sides, her touch light, ghosting over his skin as her mouth followed the path lower, lower still.


    The blindfold robbed him of sight, leaving him at the mercy of sensation alone, each touch, each brush of her lips amplified by the anticipation coursing through his veins.


    Stopping just before his aching cock, Agatha let her breath fan over his length, feeling the way he strained toward her, desperate for relief.


    "So eager, so needy~" Agatha purred, her hot breath panting on his veiny cock that twitched at the moisture.


    Then, as if offering tribute, Agatha puckered her lips and pressed a delicate, almost reverent kiss to the swollen tip of his cock.


    An almost whining, muffled groan tore through Ricky''s throat as he literally just wanted some head but now had to literally jump through bound hoops to get it.


    Agatha simply chuckled, her fingers still buried between her own legs, lazily circling her clit as she savored the power she held over him.


    "Mmm," Agatha hummed, her breath warm against his sensitive flesh while her hand, wrapped around his base, started to delicately stroke him.


    "You like that, don''t you?" Agatha asked, kissing his tip again, so soft, so teasing, before letting her tongue flick out, barely tasting him, just enough to drive him mad.


    His cock twitched in response, desperate for more, but she pulled back with a satisfied sigh.


    Then, without warning, she parted her lips and let her tongue swirl slowly around his tip, savoring the way he twitched and strained against his bindings.


    But just as quickly as she gave him that taste, that all encompassing wet warmth that spiraled around his cock, she pulled back again, her own arousal dripping down her thighs as she denied them both what they craved.


    "Patience, darling~" Agatha whispered, grinning as she flicked her tongue over her lips.


    Leaning down, she brushed her lips along the inside of his thigh, her breath hot, her tongue flicking out just enough to make him flinch.


    Almost magnetic, she started kissing his thigh and trailing them all the way back up to his cock but instead of staying seated she moved.


    Wrapping her fingers around him firmly, she raised her hips to rub her salivating folds on his veiny, twitching cock, stroking it, lathering it, and embracing him in what it could have.


    "I could ride you right now," Agatha''s hot breath rang out, straddling his waist and rolling her hips just above his aching cock, her wetness dripping onto him but denying him the relief he so desperately craved.


    "Take what I want, use you however I please." Agatha whispered, moving his tips right at the gates of her pussy, teasing him at the very precipice of their union.


    His entire body trembled beneath her, the frustration evident in the way his hands clenched into fists against the restraints.


    "But-" Agatha sighed dramatically, squeezing just a little before letting go entirely,


    "I did say I''m not that cruel, didn''t I?"Agatha said as she unbuckled the ball gag, letting it fall from his mouth with a slick pop, his jaw clenching as he sucked in a breath.


    She grinned, tilting her head, still positioning his cock on the gate of her being that would allow her to be violated but holding back at that last second.


    "Go on, Ricky," Agatha taunted, her eyes gazing back down at his anxious cock before returning her stare towards him.


    "Tell me how much you want it." Agatah said, her fingers traced along his length again, barely touching, enough to make him throb with need.


    "Or," Agatha added, her voice dripping with amusement."


    "I could just take my pleasure and leave you like this-"


    "God fcking dammit Agatha, I want to have sex, fck!" Ricky cursed, honestly annoyed and completely feeling what it was like to be teased but unlike Rosa, he didn''t enjoy the whole straddling approach.


    Agatha was acting like some sort of vile succubus and taunting Ricky with that act of pleasure without actually giving it to him.


    Ricky wouldn''t lie, he was frustrated and for that single reason, Agatha blushed while placing his tip in that right spot.


    "That''s all I wanted to hear."


    Clap


    Her ass, tightly bound in her black leather skinsuit, slammed down onto Ricky''s thigh, a resounding clap echoing through the room as she finally took what she wanted.


    Without warning, without mercy, she willingly impaled herself onto his cock, sinking down in one swift, devastating motion.


    Feeling that slight throb vibrate deep in her loins, Agatha smiled, relishing the raw power she held over him.


    The ecstasy of it all hit her in waves, her body arching as pleasure coiled tighter in her core as she rolled her hips, drawing him even deeper, feeling every twitch, every pulse of his cock buried inside her.


    "See? Just like Mommy promised~," Agatha purred, a sultry chuckle slipping past her lips.


    Her hand glided up the sleek surface of her skintight suit before seizing her own breast, fingers digging in with shameless hunger.


    Biting her lip, she let her smile stretch wide, seductive, teasing, as the heat in her cheeks deepened.


    Although she felt fulfilled, feeling his cock fill her up to the very brim, rather it was Ricky''s struggle that truly thrilled her, the way he grit his teeth, wrists bound tight, helpless beneath the slow, merciless roll of her hips.


    Instead of moving herself back up, she leaned back, bracing herself against his thighs.


    Slowly, she began to roll her hips in a deliberate, circular motion, savoring the feeling of him, playing with his cock as if it were a joystick, sending shivers of anticipation through her body.


    "This reminds me of when we first met, such good-"


    Clap


    "Times~" Agatha interrupted herself, watching Ricky become frustrated before raising those hips of hers up and then slamming them back down.


    Her eyes gleamed with a predatory hunger as she watched Ricky''s neck, the veins pulsing beneath his skin.


    She could see the struggle in him, his body betraying his pride as he fought to keep quiet, refusing to grunt despite the pleasure coursing through him.


    His cock betraying him, feeling the subtle vibrations that reverberated through her walls every time he twitched, she knew exactly how much he loved it.


    Gripping his thighs with desperate intensity, she arched her back, her body shifting in a controlled slant as she raised her hips, only to slam them back down onto him, the sensation sharp and consuming.


    Her body responded eagerly, a wet heat trailing down as she moved, the fluid between them creating a slick, heated rhythm.


    Clap


    Clap


    Clap


    The sound of her leather-clad ass echoed through the room as she slowly sank deeper, digging herself further into the pleasure of the hold she had on Ricky''s cock.


    Each time her ass slapped down onto his thighs, a jolt of electricity shot through her, igniting her senses every time his tip brushed against the deepest, most sensitive parts of her, her pussy slick and eager for every inch of him.


    It was electrifying but the thing that continuously pushed her over the edge, the very thing that made her face blush with an empathic smile was Ricky''s little fidgets.


    The way he twitched, gritted his teeth, and how his body responded, pulled by her every move.


    She could feel the deep urge in him to force his hips upward, but like a good boy, he let her take control, allowing her to savor every moment of pleasure and she was having the time of her life.


    This was how Agatha had always imagined their relationship, fantasizing about scenarios wrapped in leather and bound in ways that never quite materialized.


    But right now, in this moment, it was everything she had ever wanted.


    "AH~" Agatha cried out, lost in her own thoughts, her fantasies consuming her as she climaxed, her eyes fluttering closed, a hint of ecstasy rolling them back upon impaling herself once more.


    The second Ricky was nearing the edge, only needing that last nudge to tip over his own climax, Agatha raised her hips.


    Lifting her slick folds, which had coated his throbbing cock completely, pulling herself away just as her grip loosened, stopping just at the tip.


    Instead of slamming it back down, giving Ricky a reprieve, she merely rolled her hips in a circular motion.


    Not enough to flood her being with his cum, but enough to keep him right next to that edge.


    Tantalizing, her slick wet heat radiated all across his cock that throbbed with desperation as his balls were churned but unable to release.


    "What do you want~" Agatha asked, her breath steamy hot and her face completely flushed as she felt her loins bubble up another seismic fold of pleasure from the mere taunt alone.


    "Tell me what you want~" Agatha beckoned, her panting like some sort of desperate dog while her eyes reflected the strained scene of Ricky.


    He could break a part of the restraints, push her down, and thrust it all into her but she knew he wouldn''t, because he asked him not to.


    For once, she wanted to hear those words that had eluded her reality and always played into her mind over and over again, desiring to turn that fantasy into a cherished memory.


    "F*cking hell-I want to cum-" Ricky cursed, deciding to simply give her what she wanted only when the words left his lips, Agatha slammed her hips down, taking him to the hilt as her back arched toward the heavens, her expression twisting into ecstatic bliss.


    "YES!" Agatha manically laughed, her eyes rolling back as she felt him erupt inside her, filling her to the brim with his release.


    The pressure that had been building inside Ricky finally burst, spilling deep into her as her own climax crashed over her, a flood of her nectar rushing forth to meet his.


    It was like yin and yang, two opposing forces swirling together in perfect chaos as Agatha shivered emphatically, her body trembling as if she were a junkie getting her fix, lost in the overwhelming ecstasy.


    Her hands traced across her stomach, at that swirling sensation stewing inside her as she let out a peachy smile.


    Huff


    Huff


    They remained in that position for a long time, Agatha basking in the satisfaction of what she had just done, what she had always fantasized about with Ricky.


    And now, with the life they had just created, she had finally gotten what she wanted.


    "Now, are you ready for round two?"


    For the next two hours, Agatha rode him dry, emptying what seemed like his entire nutsack into her being.


    Only when Agatha''s thighs became numb did she stop, the stress almost melting away after using Ricky like a mere dildo.


    "Phew~" Agatha exhaled deeply, wiping the sweat from her forehead before collapsing onto Ricky''s chest, which rose and fell with his own heavy breaths.


    Usually, Ricky would be ready to go again, but after his earlier encounters with Rosa and Alia, for the first time, he actually felt tired.


    "10/10, good boy~" Agatha looked back, patting his cheek as Ricky wrapped his arms around her and kissed her cheek.


    "The next time we f*ck, I''m going to absolutely pummel your pussy into the ground." Ricky whispered, showing a warm smile towards Agatha who actually shivered at the expression as he sat up.


    "Oh, what ever shall I do~" Agatha dramatically said, placing a hand on her head and theatrically falling back onto the bed.


    BAM


    BAM


    BAM


    "MOMMY, MOMMY, OPEN UP, I GOT ICE CREAM AND I WANNA SHOW!" Zatanna suddenly hammered on the door, her excited voice cutting through the air. Agatha flinched, only the lock keeping the poor girl from barging in.


    Quickly, Agatha flicked her wrist, conjuring clothes around her with magic, while Ricky went the old-fashioned route, slipping into his three-piece suit.


    "Hurry up, hurry up!" Agatha whispered urgently, helping Ricky as she shot him a look as he laughed, knowing that for all the dominance she projected, she was a softy when it came to her family.


    "Coming my precious grimoires, give mommy a second!" Agatha yelled, hurriedly putting on Ricky''s coat as he looked at her weirdly.


    "You call them your previous grimoires-"


    "Oh shut up, it is better than calling them little sh*ts which I know about." Agatha waved her finger at Ricky, watching him rub the back of his neck since he thought calling them that would be funny.


    "F*cking Lindsy." Ricky muttered under his breath, watching Agathta hurriedly walk over to the door and open it.


    "Alright, what sort of flavors did you-"


    "DADDY!" Zatanna didn''t even register Agatha after seeing Ricky adjusting his collar, running through Agatha''s legs and holding her ice cream cone above her head.


    "LOOK, LOOK!" Zatanna showed her toothy smile, Ricky bending to pick her up as she swayed back and forth in his hold.


    "Lookings not enough, I''ll need a taste." Ricky said, licking her ice cream cone before closing his eyes and putting on a thinking expression.


    "Don''t tell me, is it vanilla with rainbow sprinkles?" Ricky guessed, opening his eyes to look at the very thing he had guessed as Zatanna giggled madly.


    "Silly daddy, you knew-"


    "I swear I didn''t, I guessed off pure taste alone, here, let me show you again-"


    "No-ahahahahaha!" Zatanna chuckled, only to laugh harder as Ricky snapped at her ice cream as she pulled it away.


    "I got chocolate," Johnny said, raising his ice cream cone to Agatha as he turned around, proudly showing it to Ginny, both of them clapping for him as he smirked.


    He stuck his nose up in the air, clearly relishing the attention from the two women around him, rather than his father, who was busy holding Zatanna in his arms.


    "Alright, I gotta bounce." Ricky said, eating a little more of his daughter''s ice cream before walking over to Agatha and handing her over.


    "Nooooooo, noooooo, stay~" Zatanna immediately whined, reaching out and grabbing the air but Ricky shook his head.


    "I gotta go get the money you use to buy ice cream. You do want more ice cream, don''t you?" Ricky chuckled, making up an excuse as Zatanna went to reply but looked at her ice cream.


    "Yeah." Zatanna softly said, almost in a pout as she clutched the ice cream closer since she indeed wanted more.


    "Alright, I''ll see you guys later." Ricky said, kissing Agatha and Zatanna on the cheek but when he looked down at Johnny, he was already running away.


    "Hahahahahaha!" Johnny chuckled madly down the hall, looking back at Ricky raising an eyebrow as he turned to the corner.


    "Woah watch it."


    Johnny''s head jerked forward only to see Ricky appear suddenly as the child flinched, giving him enough time to scoop him up.


    "See you later slugger, but remember, no hitting your sister." Ricky chuckled, ruffling his hair as Johnny nodded while sort of struggling in his grasp to be put down.


    Kissing his blond hair, he placed him on the ground as the kid immediately took off all while Ricky looked at Ginny frowning at her.


    "Bye Agatha, love you~" Ricky purposely rubbed it in Ginny''s face, giving her the middle finger then turning to Agatha and winking at her.


    "Bye Darling-"


    "BYE DADDY!" Zatanna shouted, enthusiastically waving her hand to say her goodbye as Agatha chuckled as he walked into the portal.


    "Alright, now let''s get back to-"


    Sigh


    Ricky whispered to himself as he stepped through the portal into Italiano''s but instead of finding the usual emptiness, he was met with a surprising sight: Stephanie, sitting calmly in one of the chairs, waiting.


    "What did I do this time-"


    "Got me pregnant, that''s what." Stephanie didn''t waste time, placing a paper on the table and pointing at it with unwavering intent.


    Instead of the modern pregnancy tests, in the 1930s, there were only a few ways to confirm a pregnancy.


    You either waited until you missed your period or, for those with the means, expensive and unreliable tests were available.


    These tests involved injecting a pregnant woman''s urine into animals, rabbits, frogs, or mice, and observing the results, though the process was time-consuming and often inaccurate.


    However Stephanie wanted to be sure, it''s why she waited so long to finally come to Ricky as he scratched his head.


    "Oh, well, do you need anything-"


    "No, nothing in particular." Stephanie shrugged, standing up as she moved toward him, her steps slow and deliberate as all she wanted was to tell him, and now, she was finally doing it.


    "What momma really wants is some sugar." Stephanie chuckled, boldly stating as she walked over a stain that was caused from earlier this morning.


    "Listen, baby-"


    "Are you really about to tell me that you don''t want to have dirty, sloppy sex in that coat room over there in that coat room?" Stephanie asked, grabbing his tie and pointing with her other hand at the room he wanted to take Alina into earlier.


    Sigh


    "No, because that would be gay." They both said, though Ricky''s was with a sigh and Stephanie was with a sharp tone.


    "I''m a working, functioning bakery now, thanks to you, cooking up your baby and all. And all I want is a little sugar. Is that too much to ask for?" Stephanie asked, shaking her head while pulling his tie towards the broom closet.


    "We gotta make it quick, ''cause I gotta-" Ricky started to say, turning back to the piles of paperwork stacking higher by the second, his frown deepening but before he could finish, Stephanie yanked him into the room.


    In that instant, Stephanie got her sugar as she pressed her lips to his, pushing her tongue deep into his mouth, her eyes rolling back in bliss.


    It was like hitting a cigarette for the first time after promising yourself you were done, only to fall right back into the habit, exactly how Stephanie felt in that moment.


    Tugging down on his tie, she closed her eyes, bracing herself for those big hands of his to claim her.


    And just as she expected, his fingers slid down her back, eventually cupping her ass, pulling her closer into the heat of the moment.


    He yanked her up onto the filthy sink, the clutter of brooms and mops leaning against the wall beside them, the gritty reality of the space grounding them in the moment.


    Their tongues stayed tangled, a fevered exchange of need as their hands fumbled, clumsy with urgency, at his buckle.


    Once it gave way, Stephanie yanked down his pants while he hiked his hand up her skirt, ripping away at her panties before they both slammed their waists into one another.


    Thump


    Stephanie''s back slammed against the wall, jolting with the force of him pressing up against her, his cock sliding into her with a hunger that seemed to consume them both.


    Her head arched back, eyes shut tight as the deep, overwhelming feeling of him settled into every part of her.


    "Ohhhhhhh~" Stepahnie moaned out, facing her euphoric expression up into the sky while Ricky pounced on her neck.


    Wrapping her arms around his neck, her hands sliding through the back of his hair as Ricky wound back his hips before unleashing them back into her being.


    Thump


    "Ah~" Stephanie cried out, fingers digging into his hair as she pulled him deeper, pressing him into her as she was getting her sugar today, and it flooded her senses like a sweet, relentless tide.


    Thump


    "Ah~"


    Thump


    "Ah!"


    Thump


    "AH~"


    THUMP


    "AH!"


    The broom closet echoed with their moans and loud grunts, the sound of their desperate union filling the empty space of Italiano''s.


    Ricky lost all sense of time, his mind consumed by the heat of Stephanie, every thrust deeper into her body a mindless surge of pleasure.


    She gripped him tight, and he was lost, burying himself in the warmth of her, slamming into her over and over as the rhythm became almost animalistic.


    An hour later,


    THUMP


    "AHHHHHH!" Stephanie roared out a towering moan, creaming all over Ricky as he drove into her one last time.


    He felt the last of his release surge up from his balls, filling her with everything he had left, flooding her already swamped walls with another load of his cum.


    "Jesus~" Ricky muttered, stepping back from the wrecked Stephanie, who sat on the sink, her expression dazed and glazed with exhaustion.


    Her head tilted back as she panted, gasping for air, her legs spread wide on either side of the sink.


    Then, as if the damn holding it back had been broken, an explosive rush suddenly spurted out of her creamed folds.


    Ricky''s milky white cum spilled from her filled insides, dripping down into the sink, swirling down the sink as that feeling of content washed over her as she only had one thing left to say.


    "Oh, momma loves her sugar~" Stephanie chuckled, closing her eyes and drifting off for a short power nap as Ricky zipped up his pants, once again.


    Huff


    For the first time in a while, Ricky actually started sweating, heaving out actual tired breaths as he opened the door but stopped at the doorway.


    Leaning on it, Ricky took a second while wiping his forehead before finally resuming his pace only to see a very awkward Frank on the other side of the see-through doors.


    Sniff


    Ricky wiped his nose, walking over and opening it to see that he clearly heard the latter portion of his exchange.


    "What''s up, is the supply-"


    "No, no, no, it''s nothing like that but instead Maria." Frank rubbed the back of his neck, his gaze side-eyeing the door that was closed shut before looking back at Ricky.


    "She couldn''t get ahold of ya so I thought I swing by, but, you know-"


    "I get it, thanks Franky." Ricky sighed, slicking his hands through his hair as Frank coughed and walked away.


    Ricky felt an eerie premonition stir within him as his head lightly tapped against the glass door of Italiano''s.


    Shaking it off, he lifted his hand, his fingers curling as a portal began to form, the air crackling with anticipation.


    "Eeep!" Maria yelped, taking a couple steps back only to see Ricky slowly walk out of the green portal while covering herself tightly in a robe.


    "Ricky~" Maria longingly said, her face tingling with a blush since it had been so long since they last shared a bed.


    "Can you-.........you know?" Maria asked, nervously fidgeting since she wasn''t really good at this but still tried anyway.


    Her blush deepened as she nervously averted her gaze, her fingers trembling slightly as she opened her robe to reveal the pink lace of her lingerie, chosen specifically with Ricky in mind, hoping it would stir something inside him.


    Maria was too embarrassed to even say sex, shyly leading onto it as all of it suddenly crashed the pain of glass that was any reason Ricky had before coming before him.


    "Oh yeah, I can."


    45 minutes later,


    "Ha~"


    CLAP


    "Ha!"


    CLAP


    "HA~"


    CLAP


    "HA!"


    Maria moans mounted, face pressed down and her back arching as Ricky delivered relentless, aggressive backshots.


    One hand gripped the bed tightly above her, her breath coming in ragged, lustful gasps as her face contorted with pleasure.


    The other hand was pulled back, held firmly by Ricky, who knew she wanted to feel anchored even in this vulnerable, face-down position.


    Her petite, perky ass resounded out a defying applause at the bruising treatment being slammed against it as Ricky couldn''t help but become a wild animal at this timid, cute squirrel.


    "I''m gonna-" Ricky grunted, speeding up his hips while tightly clasping her hand before winding all that he seemingly had left and slamming it all back down into Maria.


    "F*CK~" Ricky grunted, his cock exploding out with a fierce load of cum that pulsed through Maria and feeding into her own pleasure.


    "HA-AHHHHHH~" Maria interrupted her own moan, the climax tearing through it and unleashing upon her mind a furious wave of pleasure.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    Ricky was actually huffing out deep breaths, feeling completely drained as Maria''s pussy sucked almost every last drop out of him.


    ''Man, this has to be the coolest problem I''ve ever had in a while.'' Ricky thought, knowing that being drowned in pussy was the very last thing he''d ever shy away from.


    Slicking his hands through hair, he pulled the tired and exhausted Maria upwards, sticking his tongue down her throat before pulling away.


    "I know it''s sh*tty but I really have to get to work, okay?" Ricky whispered, kissing her cheek and seeing her slowly open her teary eyes before giving him a satisfied smile.


    "Okay~"


    5 minutes later,


    ZIP


    Ricky zipped his pants up as he stepped out of the portal, letting out a deep sigh when he saw Frances standing there, holding a wrapped portrait.


    Frances had been slow to move to New York, taking her time to visit her in-laws before following him.


    True to his word, Ricky had given her everything an artist could dream of: endless supplies, a studio to call her own, and even a house with a separate space just for painting.


    But that wasn''t enough for him.


    To ensure she had every opportunity, Ricky went as far as buying Frances an art gallery, an extravagant gesture, almost mocking the hollow shell Dewey had become.


    It was as if he was giving her everything Dewey never could, including the future he failed to provide, the child he couldn''t give her all while he had a front row seat to all of it.


    "Dammit, I forgot." Ricky whispered, remembering how Frances made this exact appointment to show him the portrait she had commissioned all those months ago.


    Walking into Italiano''s, he saw her belly which was pronounced that hinted at the little child growing inside of her while Dewey, locked in his undead form, sat timidly to the side.


    "Ricky!" Frances excitedly called, putting the portrait down and running up to him.


    However instead of a small kiss, Ricky yanked her closer, pressing his lips into hers and delivering a passionate kiss that spanned across what seemed like hours for Dewey, but only a couple minutes in real time.


    "Ricky, what was that for~" Frances chuckled nervously, feeling like a schoolgirl in his arms while blushing deeply.


    "I just missed you, that''s all." Ricky chuckled back, kissing her cheek before she looked back at him with a loving smile that only pained Dewey at the side.


    "Are you ready?" Frances asked with an excited smile, her starry eyes locked on her muse as he nodded.


    "Of course-" Ricky laughed, nodding his head only to see Frances walk over and unveil the cloth covering the portrait.


    Ricky''s words faltered as his eyes fell on the portrait, his head tilting to one side, then slowly shifting to the other as he studied it.


    "Woah." Ricky could only muster these words, a little surprised and unable to put it into words as Frances clasped her hands together.


    "I know I only ever painted bowls of fruit, but all this time, I couldn''t think about anything except you... about us." Frances excitedly ran up to his side, her smile warm as she gazed at the portrait.


    She had channeled every ounce of longing into her brushstrokes as the way he made her feel, the way he made her ache, she had poured it all into the very portrait before them.


    A completely naked Ricky.


    France had painted Ricky in the rawest form, every inch of him exposed as his body was positioned with one hand behind his head, the other resting casually on his thigh, creating a bold, intimate composition.


    The brushwork captured the curve of his muscles and the sharp detail of his veins, leaving no part of him untouched by the artist''s eye.


    Even the subtle tension of his arousal was rendered with precision, every contour, every line, left in its purest, unrestrained state.


    Then, to show his arrogance, Frances drew him with that signature sleazy smile of his that just stared at you without shame.


    With his newfound skill, Ricky could fully appreciate the intricacy of the piece as though a part of him expected to feel a little weird, he couldn''t help but be genuinely impressed.


    "Wow, you really nailed it," Ricky laughed, stepping closer to the portrait that seemed almost like a reflection of himself, a mirror, but painted in rich, oil-soaked strokes.


    "Do you really love it? Really?" France bit her lip, watching Ricky as he stood there, lost in admiration of his own reflection, the true narcissist at heart.


    "F*ck yeah I love it, it''s just so-.........me." Ricky could only find those words, utterly impressed at how Frances was able to even remember every vein he had.


    "Really!?" Frances placed her hands over her mouth, teary eyed since she could see Ricky''s smile wasn''t for show but genuinely awed when looking at himself.


    "Man, I am just f*cking handsome!" Ricky shouted, fist pumping in the air since you couldn''t'' really be considered an adonis until you were someone''s muse.


    "I''m so happy but I was wondering if I could ask a favor?" Frances showed a bright smile, over the moon for how much Ricky loved the piece.


    "Uh huh." Ricky sort of tuned her out, rubbing his chin while nodding since this had to be worth over three trillion dollars, to him at least.


    "I want to have a art show later and I was wondering if I could use this piece-"


    "Baby, come one, I''d be insulted if people didn''t get to see me, even in art form." Ricky gestured to himself, standing up and watching Frances bolt into his arms.


    "Oh thank you, thank you, thank you!" Frances giggled, lathering Ricky with kisses before they slowly looked at each other.


    A blush hanging on her face as those one off kisses morphed into an in-depth, emotional moment as they both leaned forward.


    Ricky was suddenly in the mood after feeling energized by how handsome he was and slowly started tugging at Frances clothes.


    "W-Wait-ah, what about him-" Frances moaned, falling into this man''s clutches as he slowly guided her down to the floor.


    "Oh who cares, he''s just like a machine, he''s not conscious." Ricky, knowing she was referring to Dewey in his undead form, lied since he had told her he was nothing more than a hollow shelled bodyguard.


    Looking over to the side, her gaze was pulled back by Ricky as his stare all but made Frances bite her lip and slowly nod.


    From Dewey''s view, he watched, in a painful agony, how Ricky spread Frances legs as her skirt slid smoothly down her skin.


    Ripping apart her delicate white panites, throwing them behind as it landed on Dewey''s hollowed form.


    Unable to tear himself away without a command at the sight of Ricky unbuckling his pants, his cock flopping onto the folds that would one day bear him a child and thrusting it in.


    "Ah~" Frances moaned beneath Ricky, taking all of it without any complaint as his hips flowed into her waist with a steady rhythm.


    Ricky wanted to hear those passionate moans of hers, he wanted her to scream them at the top of her lungs as he railed her in front of that bastard he promised to forever torture.


    Over and over again, Frances sweet and passionate moans spilled out throughout the restaurant.


    30 minutes later,


    "What do you want, say it Frances, say it~" Ricky''s cooing was only amplified by his hips thrusting into Frances spilling pussy.


    "I want you to cum inside~" Frances, like the good girl she was, gave in without a fight and gave Ricky whatever he wanted from her.


    "Good, good~" Ricky felt like a villain at this moment, chuckling as he pulled his waist back and rammed it all back into her folds.


    "AHHHHHH~" Frances'' moan peaked at this moment, digging her claws into Ricky''s back as he squeezed his balls dry inside her as she wrapped her slutty legs around his waist to take every drop.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    They both let out heavy breaths, Ricky feeling just as tired as France, no small feat, as he turned to the side.


    As the sun set, it finally dawned on him that he''d spent the entire day in bed, but instead of complaining, he simply shrugged.


    "Eh, I''ll do it tomorrow," Ricky muttered, glancing at his paperwork before standing up.


    Pulling out of Frances, she sort of gasped before shivering as her head slowly leaned back and she closed her eyes.


    "So hey, do you need a ride-"


    "No, I''m fwine~" Frances sultry lips moaned out, rubbing her stomach and burying this emotion deep within her for inspiration later.


    "Well, alright then." Ricky shrugged, leaving it at that and turning back to Dewey''s undead form, winking, then laughing out the restaurant.


    As Ricky walked toward his car, he spotted Alexander, still wearing that pondering expression, casually munching on a cashew.


    "Aye Alexander, have you thought of anything yet." Ricky asked, unwinding when his ass hit the seat of his car before looking at the gerbil, deep in thought.


    "Not as of yet." Alexander promptly said, continuing his pondering while Ricky simply shrugged, leaving it at that.


    Ricky drove up the driveway of his newly bought house, the tires crunching on the gravel as he stepped out of the car, only to find Alexander still lost in thought.


    Deciding to leave Alexander to his thoughts, Ricky walked into the house, only to find Raven carrying a sleeping Danielle, her head resting innocently on Raven''s shoulder.


    "Shhh~" Raven whispered, flashing a smile and gently shushing him as Ricky raised his hands in mock surrender, locking his lips as she beckoned him over with a subtle nod.


    Following her up the stairs, Ricky watched as Raven carefully carried the exhausted Danielle to her room, laying her gently on her horse-themed bed.


    Ever since the arrival of Bucephalus, Danielle had developed an almost obsessive fascination with horses and ponies, which was why Ricky had gone all out, buying her everything related to her new passion.


    Ricky leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to Danielle''s forehead. She wiggled a little before turning onto her side as Raven also bent down, kissing the blonde hair Danielle had carefully combed herself.


    As if taking command of the moment, Raven guided Ricky out of the room, allowing Danielle to rest peacefully and once the door was gently closed, she turned to Ricky, leaning in to kiss him.


    "How was your day, Tiger?" Raven asked warmly, her smile unmistakable, her eyes gleaming with the quiet confidence that he was coming home to her and no one else.


    "I slacked off the entire day, didn''t get a single thing done." Ricky sighed, hitting his head on her shoulder after knowing that he was going have a b*tch of a day tomorrow.


    "Oh, poor baby~" Raven joked, earning a chuckle from Ricky, who leaned in to kiss her cheek before draping his arm over her shoulder.


    "Then let''s get you to bed," Raven laughed, pulling him forward. Ricky played along, going limp in her grasp, and Raven burst into a fit of laughter.


    "No, Ricky!" Raven couldn''t help but laugh harder, nearly stumbling as she struggled to keep him upright, his body going as limp as a ragdoll.


    "Carry me, just like Danielle." Ricky tiredly said, his smile extending as Raven started crumpling under not the weight but her own laughter.


    "Ricky, I''m serious-"


    "Ok, ok~" Ricky sighed, standing up and grabbing Raven''s hand just before she could sit down.


    "While I take off my shoes and smelly socks, tell me about the foundation." Ricky joked, walking into the master bedroom and launching himself onto the bed.


    "Well, if you must know-"


    "So then she said, ''I don''t care what anyone thinks, I''m doing it.'' Can you believe that?" Raven asked, scoffing almost as she was doing her nightly routine in the mirror.


    "She tried to Queen Bee me, ME, in front of everyone but after she saw no one stood up to follow, she stormed out like she''s practically begging for drama to follow her." Raven finally let out a full scoff, remembering the nerve of that b*tch.


    "Why did she get all f*cking mad about you giving her the opinion she asked for, I''m confused?" Ricky asked, lounging on the bed since he had been listening since he honestly enjoyed the gossip from Raven.


    "Because she wanted her opinion, not mine, but I was simply tired of her poorly executed game and did away with it," Raven chuckled, remembering the embarrassed look on her face as she stormed out.


    "Wait, wasn''t she the one we were gonna go on a couples outing-woah~" Ricky asked nonchalantly, his words trailing off as his jaw hit the floor at the sight of the whitish-blue lingerie leaning against the door.


    The lingerie clung to her skin like a second layer, the delicate fabric shimmering against her cool-toned complexion as not fully blending in, but exuding her natural color..


    The lace hugged the curves of her body, accentuating the natural contours of her waist and hips.


    The straps rested gently on her shoulders, leading down to a tantalizing peek of her toned legs, the design of the fabric elongating them further.


    Every part of her body that didn''t require coverage was delicately laced, the sheer fabric tracing the lines of her form.


    Her perky nipples stood out, exposed beneath the soft material, while her beautiful pussy remained bare, leaving nothing to the imagination.


    Then, showcasing it like the crowning jewel, her stomach slightly bumped with the very child conceived and currently brewing from their fist union.


    "I hope you''re not to exhausted for a taste-"


    "Never, literally never," Ricky laughed at the sheer thought, unable to imagine refusing such an offering from the goddess before him as Raven smiled warmly at his response.


    It was then that her seductive walk began, each step measured and deliberate, she closed the distance between them, her movements slow and purposeful, before gracefully crawling onto the bed.


    Then, her body slowly shifted over him, hovering just above as her lips lingered right at the edge of his, a breath away.


    "I love you~" Raven whispered with a warm smile, wanting to say this above all else as Ricky suddenly caressed her cheek, feeling her instinctively lean into it.


    "I love you too~" Ricky smiled, returning the sentiment while leaning into as their lips suddenly collided, sparks forming.


    It was always like this with them, as if their bodies were conductive, and every time they touched, sparks seemed to fly.


    Their kiss was repeatedly interrupted by bursts of loving laughter, a giddy, almost uncontrollable joy between them.


    It wasn''t that they were laughing at anything in particular, but the sheer warmth and happiness of the moment made it hard to keep their lips locked.


    The laughter bubbled up, not out of humor, but out of the sheer delight of being so close, so connected, that the intensity of the kiss kept giving way to fits of joy.


    Slowly, their hands interlocked, letting the moment guide them rather than actively trying to force it in another direction.


    Minutes passed, and what started as light, giddy laughter slowly transformed into a deep, passionate stare, as if they had all the time in the world to just look at each other.


    Their kisses were gentle and tender, spreading like fire across their skin, but every time their lips parted, their eyes would lock, unspoken words passing between them.


    It was a gaze that pulled them closer, magnetized by something beyond touch.


    Each time they opened their eyes, it was as if the world around them faded, and they were left with nothing but the profound sight of the other.


    Ricky''s hands, still holding hers, slowly drifted downward, while Raven, in perfect synchrony, lifted her hips and as if they were moving to a shared rhythm, she lowered herself back down.


    "Ah~" Raven breathed out, her body instinctively arching upwards as his cock slowly seeped into her being.


    Feeling all but filled with him on the inside only to receive soft, reassuring kisses on the outside when Ricky leaned his head into the curve of her neck.


    It might have sounded cliche?, but every time they were together felt like the very first time.


    That indescribable response in their bodies, an intense need to be fully intertwined with each other, was something that never faded.


    It was like whenever they joined in their lustful embraces, that they were both two puzzle pieces clicking together, completely whole.


    The air wasn''t thick with lust, but with love, a simmering blend of desires that created an intoxicating warmth, a melting pot of connection and emotion.


    Sex wasn''t just a release for them; it was an act of profound connection, a way to deepen the bond they shared.


    Each touch, each kiss, was an unspoken promise to be fully present with one another, not just physically but emotionally, surrendering to the moment as if time itself stood still.


    The minutes ticking by didn''t matter, nothing else did.


    The only thing that stood out was the growing sound of their passion, echoing through the room in the form of moans.


    "Oh Ricky, oh Ricky~" Raven moaned, her voice trembling as she lost herself, repeating his name over and over, the name that always drove him wild.


    ALthough Rciky wanted to ruthlessness pound Raven''s pussy into mush, he held back for fear of hurting their child and instead, completely held back just for her.


    "I-ah~"


    "I-AH~"


    "I-"


    "I know, baby, I know~" Ricky whispered passionately, his breath hot against her skin as he leaned in as she tilted her head, surrendering to gravity, and their lips met in a desperate kiss.


    As if their bodies were perfectly in sync, Raven lowered herself, her walls immediately clenching around him as waves of pleasure coursed through her.


    She met him halfway, his own pleasure surging within her as their bodies collided, the force of their connection resonating between them as the release sparked like an explosion, their love crashing together in a final, overwhelming burst.


    Warmth filled not only their bodies but their hearts, their lips parting as she gently caressed his cheek.


    "I love you~" Ricky whispered, gazing up at the most beautiful woman he''d ever seen, just as Raven leaned down again.


    "I love you too~"


    Author''s Note: It was all supposed to be like one Chapter where I showcased the problem with putting his woman to the side and the whole addicitng fluid thing but man, I was just not feeling it the past two days and I''m sorry so here you go. If you''re wondering the reguarl chap will contiune to come out so you can think of this as a freebie. Anyways enjoy.

 Chapter 169 - 163: The Problem With Addiction (R18)

    Chapter 167 - 161: The Problem With Addiction (R18)


    "God damn it feels good to be wanted-"


    Click


    Alina didn''t even give him enough time to spew some sleazy and cheesy one liner as she already reached for his belt buckle.


    Alina''s eyes locked onto his crotch, hunger simmering beneath her gaze as her body ached for Ricky''s taste.


    Back then, when Ricky first entered her life and left his mark on her, she had managed to persevere through her motherly duties. But now, with his return, she couldn''t cut herself off.


    It was as if she were a relapsing addict, realizing that resisting this addiction was impossible, so instead, she surrendered.


    His cock flopped onto her face, and a blush bloomed across her cheeks as she marveled at the weight of it, resting between her eyes.


    "Wait, Alina, let''s go to the back-holy f*ck~" Ricky chuckled, trying to pull her toward the back room, only for his words to cut off at the sound of a single, deliberate gulp from Alina.


    In one fell swoop, Alina devoured his cock as her eyes rolled back at the mere feeling of his tip gliding down her throat and seemingly nestling into her stomach.


    Pre-cum leaked from his tip, and Alina''s sultry body shivered in anticipation as she pulled her head back for a fleeting moment, only to slam his cock deep into her throat.


    "Aye Ricky, ther-"


    "Johnny, step into this-f*ck-step into the goddamn restaurant, and you''re dead!" Ricky growled, his words faltering as Alina teased his balls, her throat working him over in a sinful massage. Gritting his teeth, he forced himself to repeat the threat, his voice strained with pleasure as Alina was acting like some sort of b*tch in heat.


    Johnny, about to step inside, immediately froze as his eyes widened before he took four quick steps back, spun on his heel, and decided it was best to come back another time.


    Alexander had already wandered off to ponder elsewhere, leaving Ricky to his own devices, namely, Alina''s eager hands fondling his balls and devouring his cock.


    Alina shoved his cock down her throat, the desperation in her movements more driven by the intensity of her withdrawals than the humiliation of pulling Ricky''s pants down in the middle of the pizza joint turned office.


    Drip


    Saliva dripped from the corners of Alina''s mouth, pooling on the floor beneath her as her lips stretched around his thick cock. The sounds of sucking and slurping echoed through the empty pizza joint, and Alina gave no thought to the shame of the moment as her only focus was filling her belly with his warm, heavy cum.


    "My god~" Ricky muttered, actually having to grab onto the nearby beam for support while arching his head up and resting a hand on Alina''s frizzy hair.


    It was as if Alina''s hands were worshipping his balls, gently squeezing and massaging them with an almost tender sincerity until his cock throbbed in response as her eyes tracked every pulse, every vein littering his cock with a desperate need flickering in them.


    Suddenly, Alina''s pace quickened, pushing his cock deeper into her throat, her pace becoming frantic as she felt Ricky grip her hair, the silent signal that he was ready to release everything into her.


    As if already anticipating Ricky''s move, he grabbed her hair and yanked her down onto his cock, forcing her throat open as it pulsed deeply inside her.


    "There we go," Ricky grunted, releasing the full load Alina had worked tirelessly for, sending it straight into her willing gullet.


    The thick, sticky fluid poured down her throat, its sloppiness burning as it coated her insides as it flooded her stomach, filling her entirely, leaving her with the heavy, addictive aftertaste of his release.


    Already knowing Ricky was about to release, Alina eagerly swallowed the first load, savoring every drop, before pulling his shaft from her mouth, letting the tip rest on her tongue as the second pulse throbbed hotly.


    Her hands gripped his shaft, squeezing it, dragging it up like his cock was a tube and she was working out that last bit of toothpaste before it splattered onto her waiting tongue.


    The thick, white mess immediately coated her mouth, and she swirled it around, her taste buds trembling, greedy for every drop of the filthy pleasure she craved.


    Although Ricky had always treated Alina like nothing more than a cumdumpster, using her however he pleased, he never expected her to take the lead with such relentless forwardness.


    While Alina swirled his cum around her tongue, savoring the taste, Ricky was left completely baffled at the sudden forwardness of this woman.


    Although Ricky had always treated Alina like nothing more than a cumdumpster, using her however he pleased, he never expected her to take the lead with such relentless forwardness.


    Ricky had been swamped lately as every time the urge hit, he would instinctively turn to Alina''s house, knowing she would never turn him away. Agatha and Raven had their own lives, their own distractions, leaving Ricky with few options when he needed release. Alina had always been there, available and eager, but now, her willingness had come at a price.


    His growing neglect of her, the distance he''d created over time, had left a mark, and this situation, messy and complicated, was the consequence.


    In fact, Ricky had severely underestimated the potency of his IP skills as although they were straightforward and unrefined, they were more effective than he ever imagined. Now, he was about to learn the hard way what his addictive fluids had turned his woman into.


    "More, honey, I need more~" Alina moaned, her mind lost to the need as the aching sensation in her body barely faded. She eagerly pressed her face against his wet cock, letting it slap against her, her hunger intensifying with each desperate movement.


    "Alright, baby, but like I said-my god~" Ricky''s words were cut short as Alina, without warning, tore off her top, her large breasts spilling free. Alina wasted no time, pressing them against him, feeling the slick heat of his cock sliding between them.


    She wasn''t even listening to him at this point, closing her eyes and pressing her lips against the tip of his cock.


    Pressing upon it a sweet, passionate kiss before once again swallowing it into her greedy gums that were still num with the taste of his cum.


    Alina, visibly further along in her pregnancy, was already experiencing the early stages of lactation. Her breasts, tender and heavy with the weight of motherhood, began to leak, a stream of warm, milky liquid trickling from her nipples.


    Alina''s own finger squeezed the meaty fat of her own breasts, forcing out that warm residue that stained his veiny throbbing cock in a mother''s warmth.


    Ricky simply stood there and watched, his expression a mix of shock and arousal, Alina moved with a deliberate slowness. It was as though she were a broken record, caught in a cycle of yearning as she leaned forward as her soft, warm tongue gently brushed against him, savoring the milk she had secreted. The creamy warmth of it slid down his veiny shaft, her mouth moving slowly to clean every drop, her body radiating heat as she took her time. Then, upon coating every inch of him with her milk, the warmth of it lingering on his skin, and finally sensually licking him clean. Her head slowly pulled back to his tip where her lips, full and red, parted slowly as she took him in, her mouth wrapping around him in a slow, deliberate motion. All while her breasts, soft and full, pressed against the base, the sensation of her warm skin sliding against him adding to the intensity. She pulled back, her gaze meeting his as she repeated the movement, her rhythm slow and deliberate, drawing him deeper with each pull.


    The wet, slippery sound filled the room as she moved faster, her breathing gargled and urgent.


    Coaxing him for his cum, Ricky''s mind spiraled, completely overtaken by the tight, soft flesh enveloping him. It was an unexpected turn of events in the dynamic, one that Ricky had set in motion himself as he had made Alina into his own outlet, a vessel for the raw lust he so often unleashed upon her only to be used as an outlet himself.


    "Jesus~" Ricky didn''t even see his own climax cumming, hitting him like some sort of train as his fingers dug into her hair as his hips slammed into that welcoming mouth of hers.


    Alina''s eyes rolled backwards, twitching vigorously at that second helping she so desired as it once again splattered into her gums before his cock rammed deeper into her throat, spilling the remainder of his load into her gullet.


    This full sensation sounded in her belly, the very same one holding Ricky''s second child with her but even still, even now after all of that, the craving didn''t go away.


    However Alina wouldn''t need to take the lead anymore, having her pregnant and motherly form pushed down as Ricky ripped away her panties.


    Throwing her purple dress away, Alina had become bare in front of Ricky''s still well maintained form with his cock resting on her wet, throbbing loins.


    If Ricky had care to even take notice, he would have seen that the panties he had torn away were completely soaked.


    Stained in the heartfelt juices of his cumdumpster whose folds ached for that all encompassing feeling he suddenly thrusted into her.


    "AHHHH~" Alina moaned, her head arching backwards as Ricky didn''t waste any time and completely submerged himself into her warm, welcoming pussy.


    That wet, slimy feeling already coating his cock was triumphed by the flooded cave of Alina, her entire body seemingly altered to be his perfect, personal lubed up pocket pussy that had its entire purpose used for this very moment.


    THWAP


    THWAP


    The wet, sloppy sounds of Alina''s folds echoed with each of Ricky''s powerful thrusts, his cock pounding relentlessly into her spewing waist, each movement leaving her body trembling with the force of him driving into her again and again.


    "Ahshhs, ashhhs~" Alina slutty mouth rang out, slobbering on her own self-need that beckoned forth the only desire to have her being filled to its brim with his thick, milky cum.


    Alina was literally acting like the very way she was being treated at the moment as a live, living sex doll.


    Reduced to her certified title, Alina embodied the title of Ricky''s personal cumdumpster fully as her legs wrapped around him, her insides clenching at the arrival of his impending load.


    Ricky, however, was completely occupied with this slutty, motherly body of hers that had gone unnoticed by all the work piling up.


    His eyes were infatuated on the dripping nipples, the milk slowly leaking from them as his hands sank deeper into the massive, flopping flesh bags of her breasts.


    ''Might as well.'' Ricky thought, literally already in the appropriate position and without hesitation, pressing both her nipples together before having a taste himself.


    As Ricky slammed his hips into Alina''s wet, spewing cunt and took in a mouthful of her nutrient rich milk, he felt oddly at peace.


    THWAP


    "AHSHSHH~" Alina, on the other hand, bore the brunt of Ricky''s ruthless actions as her head arched back as her folds, currently stretched and filled to the brim by his cock, spewed out her climax.


    Ricky closed his eyes, a sense of strange peace washing over him as he savored the warmth of her milk, his cock sinking deeper into the warm abyss of her pussy.


    All while Alina cried out spasming pleas for more, his cock pounding her ruined pussy that spewed out love juices which were slowly ruining the pantlines of his suit.


    Gulp


    "Woah, that feels good," Ricky thought outloud, realizing this was the first time he''d ever fucked a woman he''d gotten pregnant while drinking her lactating milk.


    "I should''ve done this sooner." Ricky muttered, slamming his cock down into Alina''s being that convulsed out another climax.


    THWAP


    THWAP


    THWAP


    The wet, harsh slaps of Alina''s skin being relentlessly hammered by Ricky, who greedily savored the milk she offered, filled the room.


    Each thrust was harder than the last, Ricky pushing deeper into her as the sloppy, used sounds of her pussy being punished filled the space between them. Meanwhile, her utters were being grappled, pulled and twisted as Ricky was physically milking Alina while enjoying her taste.


    His mouth was latched onto her tender peaks, sucking greedily, the taste of her milk flooding his senses, sharp and warm against his tongue.


    It was almost like a nirvana state, feeling at peace with himself while having his cock embedded into her stretched folds, and her meaty tits spilling out milk.


    It was why Ricky found his balls churning, his cock twitching, and without any hesitation he would his entire hips back, then slammed it all down into Alina.


    "That''s the stuff~" Ricky grunted, closing his eyes and unlatching his mouth off her tits that had his teeth marks surrounding her nipples.


    "A-A-A-" Alina was frozen mid-moan with a happy smile, feeling his familiar warmth erupt into her being once more and fill her entire being with the thick, refreshing feeling of his cum.


    How it surged, splattered throughout every inch of her being and completely quelled that feeling which had induced her into this craved, addicted state.


    Now, stuffed like some sort of pinata, Alina finally broke under it all as her body went limp on the floor with her teary eyes finally content.


    Although she was satisfied, Ricky was already revved up at this moment and without hesitation, he flipped Alina onto her belly, his hands gripping her hips firmly, lifting her just enough to keep her baby bump from pressing against the floor.


    "Alright, let''s go for a couple more rounds."


    30 minutes later,


    Zip


    "Ah~" Ricky let out a refreshed sigh, zipping his spare pants that he always carried in Italiano''s.


    Adjusting himself in the mirror by the side, he turned back to Alina spasming on the ground, pooling out buckets of his cum as her legs were permanently spread wide as if expecting Ricky to continue.


    Sigh


    "I should probably handle that." Ricky followed through on his words, walking over to Alina and carefully dressing her, leaving her soaked panties discarded to the side. As he scooped her disheveled form into his arms, he gazed down at the pool of his cum on the floor, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. With a casual gesture, he tossed a towel over it, as though dismissing the mess, muttering to himself that he''d deal with it later.


    His driver took him all the way to Alina''s house, where she rested peacefully in his arms, nestled against his shoulder, one hand gently resting on her stomach.


    "Slick?" Marco asked, pausing as he cleaned up the poaching, the broom stopping as he noticed Ricky carrying Alina as his gaze softened, seeing her cradled so tenderly in his embrace.


    "Aye Marco, your ma came down to visit me and I''m just bringing her back." Ricky explained half-heartedly, walking past him and into the house with Moxie running around with his wooden sword.


    It was then that a hand yanked at his collar, one of Ricky''s ethereal hands pulling him out of the table as a deadpan expression looked upon his father who dangled him in the air.


    "Moxie, don''t do that!" Sophia whined, trying to stop her little brother with the typical overprotective sister vibe but the rascal just grinned and ducked under the table, escaping her grasp with ease.


    It was then that a hand yanked at his collar, one of Ricky''s ethereal hands pulling him out of the table as a deadpan expression looked upon his father who dangled him in the air.


    "Don''t be such an ass and listen to your sister." Ricky lectured, placing him in Sophia''s good graces before walking to the master bedroom.


    Kicking the door open, he walked over to the bed and gently laid the exhausted Alina down before leaning over and kissing her forehead.


    Alina''s sleeping form softened into a smile at the gesture as Ricky leaned down, pressing a tender kiss to her pregnant belly. He lingered for a moment, his gaze lingering on her peaceful face before turning to leave the room, closing the door gently behind him.


    Just as he was about to step forward, Ricky glanced down and saw Moxie, his binky in his mouth, clutching the sword, definitely a gift from Alexander, with surprising determination.


    Without hesitation, Moxie started hitting Ricky''s shin with the wooden sword for daring to come near his mommy.


    "Hey, stop that." Ricky nudged the little kid away, shoving him only for him to come back even more fierce.


    "And take this binky out of your mouth, you''re almost four." Ricky frowned, leaning down only for Moxie to start hitting his hand with the sword.


    Suddenly, Moxie felt his binky nudged out of his mouth. His eyes widened as he immediately realized it was gone, and tears began to well up, a soft whimper escaping him.


    But Moxie''s life would be forever changed in that instant when Ricky countered his near-tearful face with a wad of money. The faint texture of the paper and its crisp green hue filled Moxie''s vision as Ricky handed him two thousand dollars in the blink of an eye.


    "It''s called give and take Moxie; I take your baby binkie and I give you the good stuff, money, and it buys you literally anything if you get enough of it," Ricky chuckled, watching Moxie plop down on his butt, staring at the wad of hundreds in one hand and the sword in the other.


    "Hehehehehehe~" Moxie chuckled madly, clutching the wad of money and the wooden sword to his chest, swaying back and forth with wild excitement.


    Although templates were provided for his upbringing, it was Ricky''s actions that truly shaped his development. In this way, the first four years of his life could be considered nothing more than a prologue.


    This was the first chapter of Moxie "Boss" Luciano, the future pillar of the Luciano family.


    But now, he was Baby Moxie, finally tasting what money and violence could get you as Ricky unknowingly walked away, he was shaping his son''s development, albeit indirectly.


    Walking out of the house, Ricky was met with a small, frail man scrambling out of his car, rushing toward him as it was clear he recognized this high-ranking member of the Luciano family.


    "Big Tony, what are you-"


    "SLICK, YOU GOTTA GO TO MEXICO, PLEASE!" Big Tony was hysterical, begging Ricky, who had long put off addressing this growing issue.


    "Whoa, buddy, calm down-"


    "I can''t, I F*CKING CAN''T WITH THOSE BEAN-"


    "Aye, aye, the kids." Ricky held up his hands, turning back to Marco, Sophia, and the giggling Moxie behind him.


    "Come over here and tell me the gist."


    Although the Luciano family and the Guerra cartel benefited immensely from the drug running partnership solidified by Ricky, there was just one slight problem.


    Rosa Guerra.


    Ricky didn''t just leave behind his business; he also left one of his bastard children, a move that not only infuriated Juan but made him seriously put out hits on Ricky. The only reason he hadn''t severed ties completely was because, despite his hatred for Ricky, he actually loved his nephew and didn''t blame the child for his existence. As a good uncle, Juan knew this innocent child, born from his beloved sister, wasn''t responsible for the situation, it was the demonic fiend that was Ricky.


    Instead, Juan had been leveraging his control over the Luciano family''s cocaine supply chain, either holding most of their product hostage or jacking up the prices until Ricky finally showed up.


    The problem, though, was that Ricky had been so caught up with other matters that Juan, feeling insulted and brushed aside, had completely severed ties. Now, the only way to resolve things was for Ricky to come in person and make things right, just like he had done before and Juan wasn''t going to settle for anything less.


    "I''m losing hair Slick, look!" Big Tony pointed at his receding hairline, the line that was covered with the looming appearance of grey hairs.


    "My daughter is getting married and I''m going to lose it, F*CKING LOSE IT, IF ONE MORE GOD DAMN PERSON COMPLAINS ABOUT THOSE GUERRA''S-"


    "Easy, easy~" Ricky calmed Big Tony down, the skinny man chain smoking cigarette after cigarette while hysterically venting all his frustrations towards the boss.


    "I''ll handle it, I''ll do it right now." Ricky assured Big Tony, knowing that it was his fault for putting him in this position by always pushing it to the side.


    "Alright boss, I''m gonna go contemplate my life in my car." Big Tony wallowed, pulling out a flask of bourbon and lugging himself back to the car.


    "Geez." Ricky thought, looking around before opening a portal and walking in without a second thought.


    Meanwhile at the Guerra Residence,


    "Boss please, the Luciano''s are our biggest customer-"


    "I don''t care, I DON''T CARE!" Juan roared at his aides, watching them all recoil at his fury.


    "HE DISRESPECTED MY SISTER, HE DISRESPECTED ME, AND HE IS RIGHT BEHIND ME ISN''T HE!" Juan roared, his words mounting with every syllable until he saw his aides eyes slowly trail behind him.


    Turning around, Juan was met with Ricky''s familiar sleazy smile, the kind he hadn''t seen in over three years as he took a deep breath, feeling the tension in the air as Ricky''s presence filled the room.


    "YOU F*CKING BASTARD!" Juan suddenly roared, exploding toward Ricky with all the rage he''d been holding back. Ricky saw the punch coming from a mile away but, with a sly smirk, he decided to let him have that one.


    Crack


    "A-AHHHHHHHHH!" Juan, feeling his hand fracture, yelped out a scream while grabbing his wrist and falling to his knees.


    "Ouch~" Ricky frowned, rubbing his chin as if the punch had actually stung. He watched Juan''s expression twist with confusion, unaware that his body and bone structure were practically superhuman and to a normal person, it would''ve felt like hitting concrete.


    "Listen, let''s talk-"


    "SURPRISE ATTACK!" Juan suddenly interrupted Ricky, pulling his other hand backwards and heaving it at his stomach.


    Crack


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Juan screamed, looking at his hand bent in a weird direction as he once again fell to his knees but without the ability to hold the injury.


    Sigh


    "Just why?" Ricky honestly asked, holding his forehead and looking down at Juan who was trying to hold back the tears.


    "If it didn''t work the first time, then-seriously?" Ricky asked, raising an eyebrow, but his words trailed off as he saw Juan''s hand move toward his side. There, beneath his heel, lay a golden pistol as Ricky sighed, rolling his eyes as he bent down, effortlessly yanking it away from the floor. He gave the gun a casual once-over, a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips as he held it up, almost as if it were some kind of toy.


    "You know that guns literally don''t work on me, right?" Ricky asked, waving it around as Juan closed his eyes tightly in pain before turning away.


    "Shut up." Juan almost pouted, the infamous drug lord acting like some sort of child as his aides at the side heaved out sighs.


    Click


    Click


    Click


    "Oh, thank god~" One of the aides held their chest, heaving out a breath of relief as if the situation would be solved.


    Ricky, turning back with a smile, expecting to see Rosa walking toward him with her usual confident stride, was instead met with an empty view. "Gus?" Ricky asked, having memorized the status screen but finally putting a face to the name as the four year old adjusted his glasses.


    "Hello father, it''s great to finally meet you." Gus happily said, his eyes darting to the aides clutching their hands together in a prayer towards him as he understood the moment in almost an instant.


    "Uh, same," Ricky said, realizing just how different his kids could be from the ordinary ones.


    Gus reminded him of Henry, but with a cold, snake-like aura that didn''t quite match the smile on his face.


    "Whoa, hey, I get this looks bad, but listen, he started it," Ricky quickly explained, glancing down at the golden gun in his hand and then at the broken Juan beneath his feet.


    Sigh


    "I understand, father, but please do not take it to heart. My Uncle Juan is a very passionate man and sometimes gets swept away by the tide of his emotions," Gus explained, his sharp eyes locked on Juan, who immediately looked away, unable to meet the accusatory gaze of his darling nephew.


    "Right, sure." Ricky nodded his head, throwing the golden pistol at one of the aides who bumbled and caught it.


    "Anyways father it''s-"


    "But man, is it good to see you!" Ricky laughed, yanking the well-groomed Gus into his embrace and giving him a bear hug.


    "Look at you, all smart and stuff!" Ricky chuckled, holding Gus up as the kid''s expression twitched, clearly trying to maintain his composure despite the unexpected affection.


    "I know our reunion is sudden, but father, could you please put me down?" Gus coughed, understanding a father and son reunion went along this common basis but didn''t particularly like to be held up in this manner.


    "Oh right, sorry." Ricky realized, putting Gus on his feet to which he regained his manner, adjusting himself.


    "....."


    After that, a looming silence hung in the air as Gus and Ricky stared at each other for a while. Ricky rubbed the back of his head, unsure of what to say next as the moment felt strangely awkward, despite the excitement of their reunion.


    "So uh, how have you been?" Ricky awkwardly asked, watching Gus plainly nod his head since it wasn''t out of character for a father to ask how his estranged son was doing.


    "Currently, I am reading at a seventh-grade reading level and have decided to start kindergarten next year. So as to better develop my social skills with my age group," Gus explained, emphasizing the real reason why he would lower himself to such a grade as his tone was calm, but there was a certain maturity to his words that made it clear he wasn''t entirely joking.


    "Well that''s good, you wanna do that in New York or?" Ricky asked, wondering if he was missing out on his development while staying here.


    "I am content here. I''m already integrating into the Gurrea family matters," Gus explained, his tone steady, as if asserting his place in the situation. But even so, he doubted the adult in front of him would entertain the whimsical antics of a child.


    "Oh, well, alright," Ricky frowned but agreed, realizing that he couldn''t force Gus to uproot everything he''d worked for just because he wanted him to.


    "Excuse me?" Gus, waiting for the words that would negate his own, opened his eyes to the shocking revelation of Ricky looking at him with a passive expression.


    "I mean, I''m not gonna drag you back to New York if you''re happy here, I wouldn''t do that to you." Ricky explained, trying to make it sound all smart-like for Gus but failed, miserably.


    "I do feel bad about leaving you out here to dry and want to make it up to you, but I won''t do that by forcing you to give up everything you know. That would be sh*tty," Ricky bent down, patting Gus''s head. The four-eyed kid looked up at his father, who was the only one who treated him like a person, not just a little kid.


    Ricky was weird in that sense, he always spoke to everyone the same way, no matter their age or status. It often got him into trouble, but right now, it was benefiting Gus, who had never been treated as anything but the kid people assumed he was.


    "Those were Uncle Juan''s intentions by having you come here, so I would have a father figure-"


    "Kiddo, I just came out of a portal that materialized outta thin air, it''ll be fine." Ricky patted his cheek, standing up and looking around.


    "And besides, ain''t no other guy gonna tell me how to raise my kid unless it''s Lucky and he ain''t here." Ricky walked past Gus, continuing to look around and down the hallway.


    "Nice catching up on you Juan, I''m gonna say hi to Rosa while I''m here!" Ricky yelled down the hall, walking away without any care while Gus walked over to Juan.


    "Gus-"


    "Uncle Juan, I know and thank you." Gus smiled, looking at the immature Uncle who literally cut off the cartel''s number one customer so that his father would come and meet him.


    "But you need to continue the shipments and if you have to do it for a reason, do it for me." Gus smiled, his eyes calculating as he pressed at that soft spot in Juan''s heart as the man ducked his head.


    "Fine, but I won''t like it." Juan gnashed his teeth, knowing how lucrative it was to be employed by the Luciano''s and simply bit the bullet.


    "Thank you and if it makes you feel any better, I truly think that I will see my father more because of your actions." Gus'' words eased Juan since although he didn''t have a good relationship with his father, he wanted the one he never had with his father.


    "Rosa, Rosa!" Ricky yelled, peeking in and out of the rooms before arriving in that very room where she had almost sucked him dry so many years ago.


    "Good times~" Ricky chuckled, walking into the room only to see a door tucked away at the very end.


    Click


    A clicking noise resounded from the other side of the door as Ricky raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued as he moved towards it, hand resting on the doorknob, and slowly opened the door.


    "Rosa?" Ricky called out, his voice echoing slightly as he stepped into the darkness. His eyes strained, searching for any sign of movement, but all he could see was an impenetrable shadow, the light barely penetrating the edges of the room.


    For a brief moment, he thought he caught a glimpse of something, an outline, a figure, but before he could fully focus, the light flickered and was cut off, plunging him back into complete obscurity.


    BAM


    The door clicked shut behind him, and Ricky felt an unexpected shiver run down his spine as his ears, now attuned to the silence, caught the faint sound of wet padding. At first, he thought it was a dog, but as the noise continued, he realized it was something far more loose, far more submissive.


    "Oh Ricky, you came back to me~" A familiar moan cried out, followed by the flickering of a switch that revealed a figure long abstained from Ricky''s life.


    "Rosa?" Ricky asked, completely shocked not at the sight of the very woman he was looking for, but the attire.


    Rosa stood before him, her body adorned in attire that was both provocative and purposefully submissive.


    She wore a pair of black crotchless panties, the delicate lace design drawing attention and baring all the supple features that her body had to offer while accentuating them to their fullest.


    Her perky, pointed tits had her nipples decorated with tasseled adornments, each subtle flick of movement causing the tassels to sway gently.


    Around her neck, a red ball gag hung, ready to plug up that drooling mouth of hers and give in to whatever desire the man reflecting in her pupils wanted.


    "Uhhhhhhhhhhh." Ricky was a little speechless, backing up a little bit until his words became long and drawn out of the room before his eyes.


    The dim lighting cast shadows against the walls, where various items were neatly arranged as each tool, restraint, and toy serving a specific purpose. Along one side of the room, a large, intricately designed X-frame stood, its purpose clear in the way the cuffs were positioned, meant to secure a willing partner in place.


    On nearby shelves, an assortment of items with whips, paddles, and other implements, lined up, hinting at the power dynamics that defined the space.


    For some, Ricky''s touch ignited their desire, but for Rosa, it uncovered a deeper longing as this masochistic girl didn''t simply wait for him, she actively prepared.


    "I''ve waited ever since that day, the day you showed me who I really was~" Rosa longingly said, taking a step forward though her crazy eyes betrayed her as Ricky sort of looked around.


    Weirdly enough, this wasn''t Ricky''s first time in a sex dungeon, and the familiarity surprisingly put him at ease as if it had been, he''d have been even more speechless.


    Huff


    Huff


    "I was always so scared of what people would think of me if they knew, the real me~" Rosa huffed, her face blushing furiously as they trailed down to the outline of his crotch.


    "But you accepted me, filled me with your love, time and time again." Rosa licked her lips, shedding the innocent, quiet persona she wore for others since with Ricky, she was finally able to be the woman she''d always known herself to be.


    "But lately I''ve been so bad, so, so, very bad~" Rosa almost pouted, walking over to Ricky with her nipple tassel''s swaying gently.


    "I need to be punished, Ricky, I need you to punish this bad, bad girl~" Rosa didn''t even try to act, showing a wide smile as her eyes filled with the reflection of Ricky.


    "Rosa-"


    "Anything, you can do anything to me as long as you use my body to your cock''s whims, hit me and fill me up so I can feel that warmth from back then~" Rosa moaned, rubbing her crotch against his pant leg and having his second pair already ruined by her dripping juices.


    Even if Ricky had wanted to, at this point, Rosa was too far lost in her own world to hear anything that didn''t involve a command or foreplay. This moment had been building over the years, layer upon layer, as she fantasized about their reunion over and over again, until it culminated in expectations on top of expectations. She dreamed of her body being ravaged by him once more, utterly destroyed, as the pain he etched into her skin marked her with his claim and gave her the gift of surrender.


    That addicting feeling resonated deep in her core, and unlike Alina, Rosa didn''t try to quell it. She embraced it as her mind and the room were filled with all the toys she hoped Ricky would use on her, her body aching with an unbearable urgency for him to command her, to dominate her as the submissive woman she always knew herself to be.


    Sigh


    "F*ck it, I''m already hard." Ricky threw caution to the wind, unzipping his pants as Rosa slammed her head into his chest.


    "Tell me what you want to do with my body, I''ll do anything-" Rosa babbled, her words tumbling out in a flood of desire. But the first thing Ricky did was silence that lustful mouth of hers, shoving a red ball gag between her lips.


    Instead of showing displeasure, she gagged out a manic chuckle, eagerly awaiting the moment she''d be used, just like the perfect sex doll she had always dreamed of becoming.


    "Uh, I guess go chain yourself to that X-frame thingy." Ricky commanded, having only been around dominatrix''s before and never a sub like Rosa.


    Rosa bolted to the side, obeying her master''s orders as she immediately began securing herself to the X-frame. But as she did, she deliberately slowed down, casting a sly side-eye at Ricky, fully aware he was watching. Her hips swayed ever so slightly, the subtle wag of her ass a silent invitation, a tease meant to test his patience.


    Slap


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Rosa huffed out a muffled moan, shivering intensely at the sharp sting of Ricky''s slap, his handprint searing itself onto her left ass cheek. Instead of finishing the task of strapping in her left wrist and ankles, her body betrayed her, spasming from the sheer force of the impact.


    Ricky had hit her a little too hard, but for any normal person, that might''ve drawn tears but Rosa, however, came. Love juices spilled down the insides of her thighs as her body quivered, her knees buckling beneath her. She wobbled, half-collapsing, her bound ankle still hooked onto the frame, leaving her exposed and trembling, lost in the overwhelming pleasure of submission.


    "Already?" Ricky asked, almost disappointed that it only took one slap but that very act of demeaning Rosa made her arch her head up.


    "Jesus Christ, Rosa, you really are a freak." Ricky chuckled, shaking his head but if his cock had done this to her, he might as well take responsibility and indulge her.


    Walking over to the side, he reached for a long, black leather flogger, its multiple strips designed to spread sensation across a wider area. Testing the weight in his hand, he glanced back at Rosa, her body still trembling, bound yet desperate for more as a slow smirk crept onto his lips.


    "Let''s see just how much of a freak you really are."


    Thwip


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Rosa spasmed again, a shuddering gasp escaping her gagged mouth as the flogger''s leather strips struck her slick, swollen folds. The sharp sting intertwined with pleasure, gripping her core in a vice of agonizing ecstasy. Her bound body trembled, her thighs twitching as another wave of heat pooled between them, surrendering completely to Ricky''s merciless touch.


    "Again, seriously?" Ricky scoffed, though amusement laced his tone.


    Thwip


    The flogger struck her drenched folds once more, inciting out another spray not authorized by the dom.


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Rosa''s body convulsed, her wrists straining against the bindings as the shock of pain and pleasure crashed over her in a messy, uncontrollable wave.


    "I thought only I could allow you to cum, but I guess not," Ricky mocked, his voice dripping with condescension. He was weirdly getting into it now, something about Rosa''s pathetic, quivering form unlocking a side of him he didn''t even know he had.


    Kicking off his shoes, he pressed his bare foot onto her head, shoving her face down against the cold floor.


    "Look at you, acting like some b*tch in heat, while your family still thinks you''re some nai?ve little angel." Ricky said, letting out a low chuckle tha rumbled from his throat, but there was something darker beneath it, something raw. His sadistic side bled through, those ever-present bags under his eyes speaking of more than just sleep deprivation, they were the weight of stress, of pressure, of a life that demanded too much.


    And now, without even realizing it, he had found his second way to vent.


    His second cum dumpster.


    "Huh, got anything to say to everyone out there who thinks the world of you?" Ricky vented, pressing his foot harder against Rosa''s face, grinding her cheek into the cold floor.


    She let out a muffled whimper, her body trembling beneath him, completely at his mercy as the humiliation, the control, it only made her wetter.


    "Huh?" Ricky gritted his teeth, his jaw tightening as the weight of everything pressed down on him. Even now, even here, it all came back to the family, always the f*cking family, the very thing he proved himself to want but of course, like always, he was completely unprepared for what the title and responsibilities entailed.


    His pulse pounded in his ears, his frustration boiling over into something visceral, something he could finally control. THWIP The flogger snapped against Rosa''s trembling body, the force of the impact sending another violent shudder through her. She collapsed further, her limbs twitching, the sharp sting pushing her deeper into that intoxicating haze of pain and pleasure. "Huh?!" Ricky barked, bringing the flogger down again, harder this time. THWIP Rosa''s muffled cries were soaked in bliss, her body surrendering entirely, lost in the intoxicating punishment. "Come on, Rosa. You can cum all you want, but you can''t give me a damn answer?" Ricky asked, reaching down and pulling out the ball gag that drooled out her smile.


    "I''m sorry, master~" Rosa slurred, her voice thick with bliss, her body soaked in everything she had ever craved. She hazily looked up at Ricky, her dazed eyes blinking sluggishly.


    But instead of staying still, her disoriented vision flickered and one moment, her face was shoved against the floor, the next, she was staring up at him.


    She tried to speak, to say something, but the familiar ball gag pushed deeper into her mouth, forcing her tongue down, silencing any words before they could escape.


    Then, without warning, darkness consumed her world.


    Ricky tightened the blindfold around her eyes, his fingers firm and precise as he had finished strapping her to the X-frame himself, ensuring she was bound exactly how he wanted.


    Now, she was truly his to play with.


    ''Man, this is oddly relieving.'' Ricky thought, raising the flogger once more. He brought it down with precision against Rosa''s exposed skin.


    BAM


    Her head snapped back, colliding with the wall as the force of the strike jolted through her. Her bound body shivered under the ruthlessness of the sudden, violent act, that stained her skin by the lash. The sting radiated through her, only to be replaced by an overwhelming flood of warmth, her body betraying her with a steady flow of desire that dripped from her folds.


    However, Ricky frowned, his gaze briefly flickering over the room before he moved toward the corner. He returned moments later, holding a dozen or so candles. Each was levitated into the air by his psychic constructs, suspended like fragile objects caught in a magnetic pull.


    With a flick of his fingers, the candles ignited, flames flickering to life with an unnatural intensity.


    But instead of the soft glow they might have once offered, they burned violently, their flames twisting and flaring as though alive.


    The fire shifted mid-air, bending and curving toward Rosa, who lay in silent, eager submission below. The flames, like vengeful tongues, pointed downward at her prone form, the heat rising to scorch her skin as they hovered, threatening to cover her in their waxy forms.


    Drip


    The first drop of molten wax landed on her skin, its searing heat causing a sharp intake of breath.


    The wax spread quickly, pooling across her outstretched arms and the delicate bare chest that was laced by her lingerie, the sensation both painful and incredibly exhilarating.


    Drip A muffled moan escaped her lips as the hot wax continued its slow descent, each drop a perfect mix of burn and pleasure. Her eyelids fluttered beneath the blindfold, unable to anticipate the next searing drop as the wax dripped and splattered onto her body, the heat and weight of it igniting a tension deep inside her.


    THWIP


    *MUFFL-


    Drip


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Rosa gasped as the flogger slashed across her chest, the sting leaving a fiery trial on her skin but before she could fully process the rush of sensations, hot wax dripped onto her body, searing her with its warmth. The combination of pain and heat sent her spiraling, her body convulsing as a wave of pleasure washed over her, forcing a muffled moan from her lips. The climax hit her in a powerful, uncontrollable spasm, each sensation amplifying the next.


    "Let''s get rid of these," Ricky hummed, pulling off the nipple tassels before reaching for the nipple clamps. He pinched them onto her nipples, the cold metal biting into her skin as he tightened them, the pressure building until the two pins were nearly pressed together. Rosa shivered, the pressure on her nipples heightening her anticipation, her body trembling from the intensity of it all as Ricky continued to push her further. When her nipples were squeezed so tightly they almost turned white, he reached for the unlubed anal beads, the cold smoothness contrasting with her warmth. Without hesitation, he pressed them against her already stretched entrance, then pushed them inside, each bead filling her deeper.


    MUFFLED MOAN


    It was as if a ten-magnitude earthquake had shaken the room the way Rosa trembled, her body wracked with sensation. She tried to scream, but her words were muffled by the ball gag, the room padded and sealed, ensuring no sound could escape to the outside.


    "Come on, it''s only the third bead," Ricky chuckled, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes as he couldn''t help but feel this rush, this feeling of control, his stress dissipating as he inflicted pain on Rosa.


    ''Is this what Agatha feels?'' Ricky thought, finally feeling just a smidge of what Agatha gets off on whenever she tries to dominate him.


    His nonchalant demeanor stood in sharp contrast to Rosa''s spasming, spewing form, her body like putty in Ricky''s hands, completely at his mercy. The anal beads slid deeper into her already stretched, ruined ass, a result of Ricky''s previous indulgences. Her body had been used as a reward in the past, and now, the familiar sting of being filled came with ease.


    As the last bead slid inside, her stretched entrance was finally plugged by the handle, a tight fit that made her gasp through the chokehold of her gag.


    Once that was finally done, Ricky was left with the pressure of his unfulfilled erection which made his frown evident.


    The X-frame, with her legs bound, hadn''t left him the option to f*ck her as he desired without making it a weird position.


    So, without any care, he selfishly altered the situation to suit his needs. Ripping the ankle restraints off, he gripped her slick, wet thighs, almost losing his hold from how soaked they were. Her skin was slick with the evidence of her arousal, her juices staining her thighs as they continued to flood from her.


    BAM


    "It''s like I never left~" Ricky grunted, thrusting deeply into her, his cock sinking into her slick folds like a waterslide as her juices splashed outwards.


    The X-frame slammed against the padded walls, the harshness of his brutal thrusts echoing through the room. But in the thick silence, that sound was the only thing that reverberated within the padded confines.


    Rosa''s desperate pleas were silenced, her moans of heat caught in the red ball gag, the sound swallowed back into her throat as her folds writhed, squeezed under that familiar punishing force of his cock.


    BAM


    BAM


    BAM


    The X-frame relentlessly slammed against the wall behind them, each violent thrust punishing the woman bound to it under Ricky''s control. Rosa endured it all, her body pinned and broken by the culmination of every twisted fantasy she''d ever had, fulfilled by the brutal force of Ricky''s cock.


    Her pussy was being relentlessly rammed, brutalized, while her ass clenched around the beads, filling her stretched insides with a suffocating pressure. Her nipples burned, the clamps digging in as if they might tear from the strain and if it couldn''t get any more pain-inducing.


    Drip


    Drip


    Hot wax continued to drip onto her tortured form, each drop adding to the blend of pain and pleasure that melted into something almost transcendental. It was a beautiful, masochistic symphony that reduced Rosa to nothing more than Ricky''s personal plaything, her body became limp, pliant under his hold, and it all culminated into everything she ever wanted.


    "God, you''re so fucking disgusting. Imagine if everyone saw how ugly you really are," Ricky''s husky voice rang out, the words searing into her mind as they added fuel to the fire. The cruel demeaning tone echoed in her ears as she rolled her head back, the force of his thrusts making her slam against the frame as she wanted to tell him how much she loved him in that moment.


    "You''re a mother to your son, a sister to your brother."


    BAM


    "But a f*cking whore to me~" Ricky chuckled, his voice laced with sadistic amusement as he reveled in just dropping the act of being a bigger person for once. Almost thriving on treating Rosa like nothing more than a slut, living only for the thought of his cock.


    Her nerves screamed under the brutal treatment, desperately crying out towards her nervous system, begging for any sort of reprieve.


    But her slutty body betrayed her, converting each wave of agony into pleasure, her juices flowing freely from her aching, whorish form.


    Bound in place, impaled and molded beneath his cock, utterly degraded to nothing more than a toy, she had only one thing left to do.


    MUFFLED MOAN


    MUFFLED MOAN


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Loud, muffled moans spilled from her, urging Ricky on, as she communicated just how much more punishment this bad girl craved. She needed it all, the pain, the degradation, to make her feel like she could be the good girl everyone thought she was.


    Then, as if Rosa could take any more of Ricky''s punishment, his movements intensified, driving his cock forward at an unsettling, vicious pace. His teeth gnashed together, eyes burning with his selfish need to release his pent-up stress that accumulated over this past month into the submissive girl completely at his mercy. So, without any care for this sub, Ricky wound his hips and then slammed everything into her spasming folds, pushing her to the brink, then breaking her.


    "FUCK~" Ricky grunted, his cock erupting with the relief that had been building in him, the weight of everything around him finally releasing with his cum spurting into Rosa.


    Ricky exhaled sharply, feeling that euphoric sense of release wash over him, but the weight didn''t simply disappear but merely transitioned onto another.


    Rosa''s body was spasming under his hold, her muscles twitching uncontrollably, her mind fractured and reassembled by the relentless pursuit of his selfish desires, just like before. As if the wave of nostalgia hit like the tidal wave of his cum, it flooded her with an impregnating euphoria that sank deep to her very core, choking her of any self-worth she had left and shedding herself bare before Ricky.


    It had become a twisted tradition, each time pushing her further than she thought she could endure. Her thoughts shattered again, scattering like glass under his force as her body, already molded and reformed by his touch, was stretched past the boundaries she''d once set for herself once again. Every inch of her screamed with the overwhelming, mind-f*cking intensity of it, and just like that innocent girl she had once been in Ricky''s hold, it was no longer something she could stop or even try to understand. For Rosa, this was fate, this was everything and more, surpassing the very out of reach fantasies that she had hoped, leaving her drowning in a pleasure induced by a all encompassing pain. THUMP


    Rosa''s spasms finally gave way, her body crumpling to the ground as the bindings that once propped her up now released, collapsing her used body onto the ground like the useless doll she had become.


    The cherry on top of it all was that mark, that body deforming instance that was his cum swirling in her inflated womb.


    Signaling that his cock had once again forever altered her body and would give birth to an even greater desire that sought to outdo the last.


    THUMP


    Rosa''s spasms finally gave way, her body crumpling to the ground as the bindings that once propped her up now released, collapsing her used body onto the ground like the useless doll she had become.


    Reduced to the very ground beneath Ricky''s feet, she had no strength left in her body, the body that was completely at the use of the very man currently contorting them to his will.


    Then, it was as if invisible strings tethered her limbs, her body turned into some sort of marionette, positioned and pulled to whatever Ricky had in store.


    "Don''t tell me you thought it was over?" Ricky whispered, jerking his hands upwards as the face that was currently drooling on the floor was suddenly pulled upwards.


    It was then that Rosa''s head was limply held in the air, swaying gently, bobbing until one hand forced it upwards.


    "Look at you, look at the slut you''ve become."" Ricky chuckled, grabbing her slobbered chin and forcing it upwards toward the mirror, where her newly bound form was reflected. No longer the X-frame of before, Rosa''s wrists were now encased in leather cuffs, a matching necklace resting against her skin. A collar circled her neck, the chain connecting all the pieces, pulling her upper body upright with a harsh tug. The sight of her, reduced and remade, was only amplified by his cock which currently wedged itself between her folds which stopped the continuous dripping of his cum.


    Now fully propped up by Ricky''s whims, Rosa''s limp form hung at his mercy as he gripped her chin, wiggling it with a mocking laugh that echoed in her ears, sending a chill down her spine.


    Every motion of his felt like an intrusion, degrading her to a whole new level, as though she was even useless as a sex doll.


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Yet, through all of it, Rosa moaned nonetheless with the crying, whimpering of a b*tch still in heat.


    Even now, with the little strength she had, Rosa wiggled that perky ass of hers at the mercy of his wedged cock.


    "You want it, right?" Ricky asked, his grip tightening under the chain as he slowly started to wrap it around her already collared neck. It was then, as if Ricky couldn''t take anything more from this poor girl, he suddenly pulled on the chain as if to take the last of her humanity, the very thing she was entitled to by birth, and completely turn her into nothing but an object for his pleasure.


    But he wasn''t just taking her humanity; he was going to strangle it out of her, piece by piece, until nothing was left but the title ''Cum Dumpster 2''.


    THWAP


    Her folds squelched, sloppy giving away as his cock once again pounded into her flesh and tore into her being.


    Yet, not even a muffled moan escaped her lips as the chain, strangling its presence around her neck, blocking any sound, any form of response. It pressed harder, squeezing the air from her lungs, leaving her breathless, suffocating under the threat of death and in return, instead of a cry, instead of sporadic movements to escape, her insides smothered Ricky''s cock as she clenched down, seemingly rewarding him.


    Ramping back his hips, Ricky didn''t hesitate to thrust it all back into Rosa, pounding her guts into a wet, mushy substance that would barely function without any other purpose than to service his cock.


    Marks began to form around Rosa''s neck, bruising under the strain as the chain was pulled tighter. The pressure increased, draining the color from her face, leaving her skin ghostly pale and slowly, a faint blue tint clouded over her features, the air choking from her lungs as life was squeezed out.


    Her body was pushed to its limits, every nerve firing on all cylinders, every primal instinct that had evolved over centuries sounding out in her head, the very same ones that are present in every living being. Yet, in this moment, all of it, the natural responses, the survival instincts, was utterly and irreversibly shattered under Ricky''s cock.


    THWAP


    Because Rosa didn''t look afraid, not scared, not even the slightest hint of fear in her eyes. Instead, that same smile, the one that had shattered the innocent girl she once was, twisted across her face once again. It was almost as if she welcomed the destruction, the end of what she had been. The pleasure she felt was overwhelming, mind-ripping, her body alternating between tension and release. For the first time, Rosa truly felt as if her body was no longer her own, lost in the sensations that consumed her and she loved every single second of it.


    THWAP


    Ricky didn''t even glance at the bluish tint spreading across her face, nor the smile that lingered despite it all. Instead, he closed his eyes, letting the tension fade away, feeling a release greater than anything therapy could offer as he lost himself in the moment, he continued to utterly ruin Rosa.


    With every thrust, every pulsing, frantic ram of his cock into Rosa''s loose, gaping pussy, Ricky felt the stress that had piled up inside him begin to release, like the stack of papers on his desk slowly toppling over.


    Under the destruction of Rosa''s body, Ricky found a strange sense of peace, smiling as her head rocked back and forth, salvia drooling all around like the dog she had become as her eyes fluttered, as if her consciousness might slip away at any moment.


    THWAP


    "Woah~" Ricky opened his eyes, gritting his teeth as his cock released the last bit of stress that had been plaguing his being and spurting it all into Rosa.


    "I think-....I think I get mediation now." Ricky whispered to himself, slamming one more mini-thrust into Rosa before releasing his grip on the chain.


    THUMP


    While Ricky was having his nirvana moment, Rosa''s body limply fell to the ground as her womb deformed under the second load that sprayed into it, expanding it like some sort of balloon on the verge of popping.


    The chain, still wrapped tightly around her neck, loosened just enough so that air could breath through her snot-filled nose.


    Twitching vigorously, Rosa knew that after today, she would never be the same. The very thing she had craved had come true, and Ricky saw her for nothing more than the sex doll she had always dreamed of becoming.


    "Alright, well, I got like twenty more minutes until I gotta go back."


    THWAP


    As Ricky yanked her limp hips up, growing bored of the chain and delivering the most aggressive backshots spirling into her limp form, Rosa could only respond to it all with one singular reaction.


    MUFFLED MOAN


    Author''s Note: This was supposed to be just one mindf*ck of a huge chap but I ended up getting a migraine and split it up so contiune to swip or scroll down and behold to an extra chap.

 Chapter 170: Chapter 163: War Committee

    Chapter 170: Chapter 163: War Committee


    "Now, let''s begin this impromptu war committee," Ricky announced, his gaze sweeping across the room, not just at the three groups under his domain, but at the unexpected outside parties as well.


    While the Luciano Family, Agatha''s Coven, and Elias'' Sanctuary were all accounted for, he had also allowed representatives from these marginalized groups to take their seats at the table.


    For the Luciano Family and the Italian community, Ricky naturally called upon Lucky, the former head, whose presence was both expected and understood.


    For the mutants, he brought the ever-formidable Raven as her influence within her foundation had grown so significantly that Elias, ever the cautious one, was visibly on edge, squinting at her from across the table.


    And finally, there was the greatest headache of them all, Morgana Le Fey.


    Not only was she an outsider to witches and mysticism, but her ties to Camelot and Merlyn made her vital for this meeting.


    "Before we get into it I would like-"


    Click


    Click


    Click


    Suddenly, without warning, the sharp click of heels echoed from outside the door, somehow carrying through the room and cutting off Ricky mid-sentence.


    His frown deepened as murmurs rippled through the hall, voices hushed yet tense as a few grunts followed, brief, pained sounds, before the double doors facing Ricky swung open with deliberate force.


    Confusion rippled through the room, a wave of murmurs and shifting postures spreading among the lower ranking members of the spread out factions.


    Meanwhile, the more seasoned figures at the table reacted differently, no bewilderment, just cold, simmering annoyance.


    Raven, Agatha, and Elias to be more specific, turned in unison, their gazes sharp and unamused, fixed on the figure who had once again stolen the spotlight.


    "Am I late?" Selene asked, her smile laced with false innocence, her voice smooth yet carrying an undeniable edge.


    She stood at the forefront, an amused expression playing across her face, as if every step of this disruption had been carefully orchestrated.


    "Fashionably so." Raven said, her off handed comment not going unnoticed by Selene who turned her attention towards her.


    "Ah, Raven, how good it is to see you again. I see you''re doing-.............. well." Selene''s smile was warm, almost too inviting, yet her eyes dripped with mockery as the deliberate pause was meant to incite a reaction, but Raven only narrowed her eyes, unimpressed.


    "Well, at least one of us is happy about the other''s arrival." Raven chuckled, her smile as sweet as honey, yet her eyes glinted like sharpened daggers as the subtle tension in the air was enough to make Selene''s mouth almost twitch.


    "Oh, don''t say that, Raven," Elias drawled, leaning back with an almost lazy smirk from his nearby telepath.


    "We should always expect an overbearing presence to intrude on discussions that have absolutely nothing to do with them." Elias words dripped with venom, his gaze locking onto Selene with a pointed sharpness, daring her to react.


    "I would rather be overbearing than underwhelming." Selene laughed, the sound dripping with condescension as she lifted a hand to her lips in mock delicacy as her gaze, laced with pure disdain, settled on Elias, striking him where she knew it would sting the most.


    "Aye, declaw, this ain''t some catfight." Ricky held up a hand, cutting Elias off before he could lash back, his glare sharp enough to carve through the tension.


    "And Selene, what are you doing here? This doesn''t concern you." Ricky''s voice carried an edge of irritation, the unexpected interruption gnawing at his patience which was already thin for its own good.


    "It, indeed, does concern the acting executor of the High Table as that attack on your zone was an indirect attack on us, and I am merely here to assess whether or not this would become a problem." Selene said smoothly, her voice carrying the weight of absolute certainty.


    She spoke with perfect composure, betraying not a hint of doubt, because there was none.


    Selene had been observing New York for quite some time, watching, waiting, and assessing.


    Through the Continental and her mirrors, she had kept a meticulous eye on Ricky and his every move, not out of concern, but for her own purposes.


    It was that very vigilance that had alerted her to Merlyn''s attack long before the rest of them had even pieced it together.


    Now, presented with the perfect opportunity to cross paths with Ricky, she thrusted herself into this situation without any hint of shame.


    "Sure you are." Agatha whispered, scoffing under her breath as all she saw was another woman pining away at Ricky''s attention.


    "Agatha, I can assure you that my presence here is strictly business," Selene''s words rang out, though from the side, she caught Morgana watching her with an amused expression.


    "Uh huh." Both Raven and Agatha said in unison, knowing full well the gravitational pull Ricky has for women of varying backgrounds.


    "Okay fine, you''re here because you''re here cause of the High Table, but this ain''t some open forum for you to say whatever''s on your mind. This is a meeting run by the Luciano family, and I ask you to respect that," Ricky gestured, knowing that an additional perspective wouldn''t hurt as Selene simply nodded, patience etched into her expression.


    "I understand." Selene''s eyes curled with amusement as she took a seat on the other side of the table, offering Ricky a warm smile that felt anything but.


    "Alright, now that there won''t be any more people interrupting me, I''d like to give the floor to someone I really respect," Ricky declared, extending his hand as the gerbil scurried down his arm and into his palm and with deliberate care, he placed the small creature at the center of the table.


    "This is-"


    "A rat?" Morgana asked, having forgotten the presence of this gerbil from the first time she had met Ricky and passed it off as a pet.


    "Oh boy." Ricky facepalmed, leaning back as Alexander whiskers twitched as he faced her.


    "My form is not that of a lowly rat but of a gerbil, and not just any gerbil. I am Alexander the Great." Alexander puffed out his furry chest with pride, his declaration met with a mix of skepticism and astonishment from the gathered figures.


    Across the table, however, Selene''s easygoing smile vanished in an instant, her gaze hardening as she locked eyes on the tiny creature before her.


    Though, right before the tangent of accolades could spew from Alexander''s proud stance, a familiarity blossomed in this oldened witches eyes.


    "You are Alexander of Macedonia?" Morgana asked, tilting her head, surprising not only those at the table but the gerbil standing on it as well.


    Ricky, expecting Alexander to launch into his usual grandiose speech about his conquests, found himself swallowing his thoughts.


    "You''ve heard of my tales?!" Alexander''s annoyance vanished in an instant, replaced by eager curiosity at hearing one of his many epithets spoken with recognition as his tiny chest puffed out further as he regarded Morgana with newfound interest.


    "Of course, Merlyn incorporated you into Arthur''s studies at a young age. You were a foundation for the king he became," Morgana slowly nodded, almost paying tribute to Alexander and indirectly flattering him.


    Cough


    "Well, it is to be expected since my achievements have been etched into the tomes of history." Alexander nodded, shamelessly agreeing as Ricky''s deadpan expression spoke volumes.


    "My accolades are many, so it is natural that others would use them as-"


    "Alexander, come on, man." Ricky sighed, shaking his head as the gerbil got too caught up in his own glory and trailed off mid-thought.


    "Oh, right." Alexander, shelving the train of thought for now, adjusted himself and stood before these important figures without any hesitation.


    Ahem


    "Yes, where was I-oh. I am Alexander the great, Lord of Asia, Hegemon of the Hellenic League, Basileus of Macedon, and so on and so forth." Alexander boasted without shame, prompting Ricky to roll his eyes, having expected this display sooner or later.


    "But to you all, you can merely think of me as Ricky''s master, his teacher in the way of life." Alexander beckoned, his words giving off an even stranger reaction as they all turned to Ricky leaning on his hand.


    Sigh


    "Yeah, I''m his-do I really have to say it." Ricky pinched the bridge of his nose, opening his eyes to Alexander who slowly nodded his head.


    "Like I did with Socrates before, you must honor titles and profess them to the world without shame." Alexander gripped his mighty paw, his excited smile portraying his honorable words since he really wanted Ricky to start referring to himself with his own achievements.


    "I''m his disciple." Ricky revealed, leaving the room to sort of stand there in this unexpected stupor.


    Snort


    Lucky snorted, wanting to mock Ricky but using all his willpower to hold back, careful not to undermine him in his position of authority.


    "Alright, enough with the goddamn introductions. Say your piece," Ricky chuckled, barely able to contain his amusement as he covered his mouth, stifling his laughter as the absurdity of the moment hit him.


    Even he had to admit, it was kind of funny and even started laughing at himself while Lucky, on the other hand, was barely holding it together, his muffled snorts threatening to break through.


    "Right, well, I have pondered Merlyn''s actions very carefully," Alexander began, immediately drawing the attention of everyone present, partly because one version of him was a talking gerbil with a ring around his belly, and the other was claiming to be Alexander the Great.


    "First, a connection, though thin, is there, from these so-called ''witch hunts'' he has conducted for parts of these so-called Chimeras," Alexander said, waving his paw to emphasize the first thread that tied this entire connection together.


    "There is also the matter of him regarding Ricky as a ''worthy threat,'' which can be linked to Morgana, who has been a constant danger to Camelot," Alexander continued, shifting attention toward Morgana, who merely observed in silence.


    "But, these connections have nothing to do with the attack." Alexander boldly declared, striking a cord with Agatha and her coven since to them they aren''t just attackers but their tormentors.


    "The Ordo Draconum has been hunting us for centuries, killing members of our coven-"


    "Exactly, but that is my point, why would someone like Merlyn send the Ordo Draconum towards Ricky." Alexander interrupted, highlighting this exact statement and now gesturing towards Ricky.


    "Ricky''s presence here in the city of New York is not something hidden, it''s boasted," Alexander remarked plainly, showcasing how out in the open Ricky is and then circling back to his next point.


    "And from the assessment I gained from Morgana''s and secondhand descriptions of Merlyn from my peer Chester, I can say without a doubt that he is no fool." Alexander''s words held the room on edge, every eye focused on him, save for one.


    Morgana, to Ricky''s surprise, began nodding in agreement, her expression serious as she processed the gravity of Alexander''s words.


    "That''s true, I''ve never known Merlyn to do something without another in mind." Morgana gestured, agreeing with Alexander openly as the gerbil continued.


    "So if Merlyn, this calculating and competent figure, knew of Ricky''s presence in New York, knew the people around him, and knew not only the powers he possessed but also that the Ebony Blade was in his possession, then I ask you all, why?" Alexander opened the stage with a sweeping gesture, prompting the gathered crowd to exchange uncertain glances.


    "Isn''t it obvious? He''s here to thwart another one of Morgana''s plans," Selene said openly, her tone not mocking but matter-of-fact, as if it were the most obvious conclusion.


    "I mean, it''s practically a running joke in the magical world, how Morgan fails time and time again," Selene mocked, her tone sharp despite the casual delivery, while the witch merely adjusted her hair.


    "If we''re talking about failures in the magical world, Selene, I''d say you take the crown." Morgana''s words sliced through the air, and Alexander tilted his head, intrigued by the tension crackling between them.


    "Really? That''s rich, coming from someone whose efforts have never borne anything at all," Selene fired back, resting her head in her hands as Morgana merely side-eyed her, unimpressed.


    "At least my crowning failure wasn''t at the hands of a mere slave girl." Morgana''s words dropped like a stone, instantly chilling the room as the air turned so frigid that when Ricky exhaled, he saw the mist of his own breath.


    That confident smile Selene had worn throughout the exchange vanished the instant Morgana struck her one sore spot as her expression soured, the shift as immediate as a candle snuffed out.


    "I''d say that if you pried any further into that matter, you''d be making an enemy of me, but let''s face reality, you''re nowhere near my level." Selene''s words carried the weight of a warning, yet Morgana merely chuckled, unfazed by the retort.


    "Of course, though that is simply at the moment." Morgana faced Selene without a hint of fear, their auras clashing like opposing tides of black and green, swirling and raging in a silent battle of dominance.


    Bam


    "Jesus christ, enough!" Ricky slammed his fist on the table, capturing the attention of the woman as his angry expression rang out.


    "This isn''t some damn group therapy session where you all get to hash out your differences and come together, it''s a f*cking meeting!" Ricky yelled, his eyes swirling with his sovereign aura, forcing Selene to rein in her emotions.


    "The next one to bring up sh*t that has nothing to do with this meeting is getting booted, do you all understand!" Ricky yelled, his tone leaving no room for argument as it wasn''t a question, just a fact.


    "Alexander, go ahead." Ricky sighed, gesturing the floor back to Alexander who nodded and regained himself.


    "To answer Selene''s question, I do not think Merlyn''s actions are also tied entirely towards Morgana." Alexander continued, trying to regain his momentum that had stumbled due to old wounds.


    "Although it''s true that the Ordo Draconum could be interpreted as a group formed to rein in Morgana, that reasoning became null and void the moment Angela spoke," Alexander gestured, his gaze sweeping across the room before finally settling on Ricky.


    "The Ordo Draconum''s purpose was not to rein in Morgana or to kill the coven, but rather, as Angela made clear, it was directed at Ricky, the one who possesses the Ebony Blade," Alexander said, waving his paw as he gestured toward the man at the head of the table.


    "But now we are faced with a problem, an issue." Alexander turned back to them all, placing his paws behind his back as he began pacing.


    "If Merlyn, the ever-so-competent and calculative figure, actively sought out the Ebony Blade and had Angela declare that Ricky must turn himself and the blade over, we must now ask, why? Why now, specifically?" Alexander questioned, his pacing slowing as the weight of his words settled over the room.


    "Although it is stated that Merlyn created the blade and its counterparts, it had been residing within the Vatican''s hold for generations, from own observations." Alexander clarified, sensing a hole in the logic but pressing forward regardless.


    "Aye, Alexander, what about his morals? Could it be some kind of mentality thing cause he''s supposed to be chivalrous, and knightly, and stuff like that?" Lucky chimed in, fully aware that his son wasn''t the noblest person and wondering if Merlyn might have an issue with that.


    "I thought of that too, until I realized that to the world, Ricky is sort of a hero," Alexander revealed, immediately receiving frowns and disbelieving expressions, even from Ricky himself.


    "I know, I know." Alexander held up his paws, stopping what would be the onslaught of criticism that would follow.


    "But if we truly think about it, Ricky has slain Dracula, a figure known for his wicked deeds. He embarked on a trial that, although selfish in its intent, still paved the way for a sense of relief among a group of people we refer to as mutants," Alexander pointed out, emphasizing the significance of this fact, it simply didn''t add up.


    Alexander knew exactly what kind of person Ricky was, but Merlyn shouldn''t have and unless he had been watching Ricky closely, there was no way he could have known his true nature.


    "Unless Merlyn has been watching Ricky from the moment he obtained the blade and every moment afterward, then in my opinion, there should be no moral intent behind Merlyn''s actions as of now," Alexander concluded, dismissing the notion that Merlyn saw Ricky as unworthy.


    "Then if it isn''t related to this Ebony whatever, how did Slick get on this guy''s radar?" Lucky asked, watching as Alexander pointed directly at Morgana.


    "The second Morgana made contact with Ricky, he must have become aware of something, because not long after, the confrontation was made." Alexander revealed, turning the focus back onto Morgana who suddenly was met with the gaze of everyone.


    "And it couldn''t be a coincidence, since Morgana has been entrenched in the coven for months, at least from my accounts. Yet only after they speak does the attack happen." Alexander continued, ramping up everything he had been thinking so deeply about while Ricky had been getting fiercely laid.


    "Holy sh*t." Ricky muttered, actually getting to the point before Alexander led him there as the gerbil nodded.


    "Yes Ricky, it is exactly what you''re thinking." Alexander chuckled, seeing that same revelation he had all while everyone else was left in the dark.


    "But you said it didn''t have anything to do with Morgana." Raven, curious to this revelation, but it was then that Morgana clicked her tongue.


    "I see, it must be because of the poor sealing on your front as my power must have rang bells-" Morgana assumed, directing the blame onto Agatha who immediately scrunched her eyebrows.


    "No, that''s not it either," Alexander revealed, gesturing toward everyone with a wide smile as if it were some big reveal.


    ''Aye, skip this part.'' Ricky''s voice echoed in Alexander''s mind, his telepathic link activating thanks to his high favorability, the gerbil halted in his tracks, eyes flickering with understanding.


    "What is the instance that notified Merlyn?" Selene finally joined in the conversation, asking as her gaze pierced towards Alexander who seemed out of character to hesitate.


    "His connection." Morgana whispered, suddenly realizing this as well as Alexander slowly pouncing on that subject to adhere to Ricky''s wishes.


    "Ricky has a connection to their plane of refuge, one that incites haste," Alexander phrased carefully, ensuring they understood the significance without outright revealing what that connection was, preserving Ricky''s privacy.


    "Sorry, I gotta ask, what''s the connection?" Lucky asked, feeling like a sore thumb but seemingly out of the loop.


    "Yes Alexander, what is the connection?" Selene asked, crossing her hands in front of her face and prompting towards the gerbil.


    "The interdimensional energies of the otherworld." Morgana spoke up, covering for Ricky and Alexander as Selene turned her gaze towards her.


    "You mean-"


    "Yes, the very same ones that empower the so-called ''Captain Britain''." Morgana revealed this fact, causing Selene to scowl and Raven to widen her eyes.


    "Wait, I thought that position was passed down by England-" Raven chimed in, her words a glaring confusion that is often interrupted as such.


    "The British Isles are all but under Merlyn''s control, since Avalon was made from the collective consciousness of it," Morgana stated, her arms crossed as she leveled her gaze at the group.


    Her words carried a weight that silenced the room, underscoring the significance of Avalon and its seat of power, Camelot.


    "Those in Otherworld are intrinsically connected to various dimensional nexuses. Those who wield Otherworld''s magic, such as members of what Merlyn has dubbed the ''Captain Britain Corps,''" Morgana said, rolling her eyes as if it were a pain to even talk about.


    Her explanation didn''t fill in all the gaps, but it was enough to keep Selene at bay as she intently focused on the conversation.


    Ricky hid it pretty well, considering how rash he could be, but when he briefly made eye contact with Morgana, she had this look in her eye that seemed to confirm something from their earlier conversation.


    "So, in my humble opinion, after understanding all these facts, I personally believe that Merlyn is purposely throwing cannon fodder at Ricky, not only to empower him but to lure him to Camelot for some unseen goal of his," Alexander revealed, wrapping up Morgana''s explanation and adding his own insight, neatly tying everything together.


    Alexander understood that the connection likely lay with what Ricky referred to as the Nethergods, and from what Morgana implied, these entities appeared to be enemies.


    However, that didn''t mean this secret couldn''t stir trouble, which is why he kept it hidden beneath his explanation.


    But if Angela had said something completely different from "You are worthy," and considering she was merely a messenger, then the pieces might finally start to align, yet they were still so scattered.


    "But, correct me if I''m wrong, you''re saying they''re luring Slick to this ''plane of refuge.'' how would he know that throwing cannon fodder at him would lead him there?" Elias mused aloud, tilting both pairs of eyes toward Alexander, who shot him a sidelong glance.


    "Although Ricky has amassed many achievements, they all stem from one exact thing," Alexander said, raising his paw, a tiny claw extending for emphasis.


    "Pride?" Lucky mused, voicing his thoughts, but Alexander dismissed the notion with a shake of his head.


    "Wrath. If one were to thoroughly analyze his actions, it would be clear that Ricky operates with a retaliatory mindset." Alexander tapped his temple, his words prompting them all to gradually shift their gaze toward him.


    "Whenever he''s asked why he killed Dracula, Ricky simply says, ''He killed my bird.'' And if someone were to trace the path, they''d find a clear shared history between the man known as Dewey and Ricky, one that, coincidentally, led to his supposed exile." Alexander continued pacing back and forth, while Ricky shook his head with a quiet chuckle at how ridiculous this sounded but couldn''t deny it.


    If someone truly delved into Ricky''s actions and took a moment to examine everything surrounding him, given enough resources, they would uncover everything necessary to provoke a reaction from him.


    "Then why would he send Angela with the Ebony Shield and Crown if she was just a messenger." Agatha asked, however, instead of Alexander, Ricky chimed in.


    "He''s trying to lure me toward her," Ricky said, pointing at Morgana as she simply shrugged, his earlier realization finally sinking in.


    "Why?" Raven and Agatha both asked at the same time, prompting Morgana to raise her nose into the air.


    "Because I have the last piece of the ebony puzzle within my grasp, to be more specific, I have the Ebony Chalice." Morgana proclaimed to all of these people since it was currently resting in her castle''s coffers.


    "Exactly, Merlyn is trying to put these two together to, what I can only assume, ransack Camelot." Alexander got to the point, revealing the fact that still didn''t make sense to a lot of these people.


    "With all of this in mind, there must be a greater purpose since no opponent would actively empower what they deem their enemy without a larger goal in mind or the intention of bait. Either way, one thing remains clear." Alexander got to the final point, spreading out his arms towards them all as a man started rushing towards the building in great haste.


    Huff


    Huff


    Huff


    Blood dripped from his open wounds, staining the ground beneath him, yet he forced himself forward, his urgency far outweighing the pain.


    "Merlyn will not stop attacking until Ricky faces him head-on-"


    "LET ME SEE THE BOSS! LET ME SEE THE BOSS!" A thick Italian-American accent bellowed from the other side of the door, the desperation in his voice undeniable.


    Ricky''s gaze snapped toward the entrance, his expression darkening as the others followed suit, their attention now fixed on the commotion outside.


    "Let him in!" Ricky yelled, a foreboding thought crossing his mind as the doors suddenly burst open to that same bleeding man.


    "BOSS, THEY''RE ATTACKING THE BROOKLYN PORT!"


    20 minutes earlier,


    "Why are we doing this~" David, the shark-toothed mutant, whined, slumping his shoulders while hauling heavy merchandise off the shipping container.


    "Because someone attacked our family, that''s why." Paolo scoffed, pushing past him and hurrying to finish the job to be done with it instead of constantly whining.


    "But we''re runners, not slaves-"


    "Aye, how about instead of whining and crying, ya get back to work!" Johnny reprimanded, hauling some merchandise of his own as Paolo glared at David for getting him in trouble.


    Since the impromptu War Committee, which was at first the scheduled meeting of all the groups under Ricky''s control, was set to convene, other operations had to take a back seat.


    High-ranking figures and their trusted hands were required to attend out of custom, but their absence left many areas without proper oversight.


    To compensate, lower-ranking members of the family were tasked with filling the gaps.


    Among these lower figures were the runners, and Johnny found himself assigned to assist with the manpower shortage on Lil Tony''s counterfeit shipment haul.


    It wasn''t glamorous work, but someone had to make sure the operation ran smoothly.


    With key figures occupied, the responsibility fell on those like Johnny to keep things moving, whether his runners liked it or not.


    "This is so stupid, we''re supposed to run for the Luciano family, not be pack mules," David mumbled, kicking a pebble to the side.


    "Are you questioning the great warlock Ricky Luciano?!"


    Johnny instinctively heaved a tired sigh as that familiar warlock kid, the same one who had eagerly gotten Ricky''s autograph a while ago, stepped forward, backed by the rest of his coven.


    The speaker of the coven kids was Jeremiah, and unlike the usual weak and scrawny build most warlocks had, he stood tall and carried a bit of extra weight.


    As mentioned earlier, they didn''t have an issue per se with the other normies and mutants, but rather, their ideals clashed with how they each interpreted Ricky.


    To them, he was a figure of power, influence, and, most importantly, a symbol of what magic could achieve when paired with ambition.


    However, there was such a wide array of magical disciplines among the warlock kids that their differences often blurred, making it difficult to distinguish them from one another at a glance.


    Externally, these differences didn''t bother them as they had no qualms about the various backgrounds, abilities, or bloodlines among their ranks.


    But internally, when it came to their mindset, their beliefs, and their philosophy regarding Ricky''s role in the grand scheme of things, they would set themselves ablaze with conviction, preaching their truths with near-religious fervor.


    "Okay first of all, he''s a mutant-"


    "No, he was an Italian first!" Paolo interrupted David, his voice sharp with conviction.


    Although their fists had stopped clashing, their words had taken up the fight instead, each syllable thrown like a jab, each retorting a counterpunch.


    "Oh, not again~" Johnny sighed, facepalming as the loud array of banter suddenly escalated into a full on debate.


    After the fight, they had finally started getting along, but now they never seemed to shut up about what they thought Ricky and the Luciano family truly represented.


    "Benny, don''t-"


    "But I don''t get it," Benny spoke with such clarity that his voice cut through the conversation, even as Louis tried to cover his mouth.


    "Shut your mouth, you''re gonna get us in trouble again!" Louis whispered in a high pitch, holding Benny back from speaking his brutally honest opinions.


    For all the bickering, progress between these marginalized groups was made through the unexpected friendship of Louis and Benny, who, for some reason, got along like two peas in a pod.


    However, it was becoming apparent that Louis would never be able to escape the trouble sparked by Benny''s relentless honesty.


    "What are you talking about?" Jeremiah, who had yet to be introduced to Benny, asked with a raised brow as Louis slumped his shoulders and ducked his head.


    "Here we go~" Louis whined, already bracing himself for the inevitable argument that would lead to another fight.


    "Isn''t Slick all three? I don''t get why you all have to pick and choose what he is. I don''t understand," Benny stated plainly, his words hung in the air, and across the massive container ship, Johnny, who had been facepalming, suddenly spotted Benny speaking.


    His expression twisted, and without hesitation, he started rushing toward them, as if already knowing exactly what was about to happen.


    "What don''t you understand? Did I stutter?" Jeremiah shot back, as the other coven kids chuckled behind him.


    "I don''t understand how you can''t see he''s all three. Unless you''re an idiot." Benny''s words immediately fanned the flames within Jeremiah, whose eyebrows twitched in irritation.


    "What?" Jeremiah asked, his tone laced with the irritation spelled out on his eyebrows as he squinted his eyes.


    "Are you ignorant that he''s a mutant, Italian, and a warlock?" Benny emotionlessly pressed, accidentally choosing a word that Jeremiah didn''t fully grasp.


    "I''m not ignorant of that-"


    "Then why are you arguing?" Benny interrupted, tilting his head with his hollow gaze staring at Jeremiah with pure curiosity since if he truly understood, there''d be nothing to debate.


    "I-you-we-" Jeremiah stammered, struggling to form a retort but the words tangled together, leaving him utterly speechless in the wake of Benny''s breakdown.


    "Benny, stop talking!" Johnny yelled from the distance, rushing watching Jeremaih blush in embarrassment as his entire body violently trembled.


    "WHO EVEN ARE YOU!" Jeremiah yelled, his rage getting the better of him as Benny slowly nodded his head.


    "I''m Benni with a Y." Benny pointed to himself, introducing the name given to him by Ricky who should''ve been a little more specific with how he worded it to this child.


    "What?" Jeremiah, caught off guard by the weird introduction, could only stare at him weirdly as Benny went to introduce himself again.


    "I said I''m Benny with-"


    "That''s enough!" Johnny yelled, stepping up behind Benny and covering the boy''s mouth, silencing him before he could spit out any more words to stoke the ever-present flames of violence that always seemed to follow him.


    Huff


    Huff


    Huff


    "Man, I gotta run more~" Johnny heaved out breathes, muttering to himself before looking down at Benny patiently waiting for him to release his grasp.


    "Benny, stop talking and get back to work." Johnny ordered, knowing this kid only responded to as such as his dirty blond hair nodded.


    After being released, he grabbed his box and started walking toward one of the trucks, Louis shaking his head beside him.


    "Why can''t you just let things go, huh?" Louis asked with a heavy sigh as Benny looked at him, then down at the stuff he was holding, clearly confused by the question.


    "Because it would break-"


    "No-URGH!" Louis grabbed his hair, stomping forward as Benny tilted his head at this confusion but followed along nonetheless.


    It was then that a ship slowly began to pull up to the dock as Johnny noticed it right away, but several workers, busy with shipments and holding their manifests, frowned as they saw it approach.


    Though they were occupied with their tasks, when they glanced at the ship''s name and the numbers engraved on its hull, confusion washed over their faces.


    "Aye, Boss, are you expecting someone?" A man asked with a respectful approach, walking up to Johnny since although he was younger, he held a higher rank within the Luciano family.


    "No, why?" Johnny asked, side-eyeing the boat that looked to be a big fighting boat as the man scratched his head.


    "We ain''t got no fishing boat scheduled to dock today, not for our goods or the port," the man said, scanning the logs and finding no entry. Johnny frowned but shook his head.


    "Maybe it''s some clueless Joe. I''ll go warn ''em." Johnny patted the man''s shoulder before heading toward the boat, his hand instinctively reaching behind him to ensure his handgun was still tucked in his belt.


    "Aye, AYE!" Johnny yelled towards the oncoming fishing boat, seeing a clear figure wearing a yellow trench coat.


    "Oh, hello!" The man let out a gargled, gruff tone while shielding his face away from him.


    "THIS PRIVATE LUCIANO FAMILY PROPERTY, THIS AIN''T NO PLACE TO DOCK IF YA DON''T GOTTA APPOINTMENT WITH THE FISHES!" Johnny warned, outright telling him that he''d die if he continued forward but the fishing boat never ceased.


    "I was told to deliver a message to someone known as ''Ricky Luciano!''" The man''s voice was garbled, almost bubbling, as Johnny straightened up, his gaze locking on the fishing boat while his grip on his gun tightened.


    "And what would that be?" Johnny''s voice sharpened, his eyes narrowing as he focused on the man, who was slowly becoming clearer in his view.


    Johnny''s eyes went wide with shock as the man in the yellow trench coat turned around.


    For a split second, Johnny froze, his body betraying him in that fleeting moment of hesitation as it was a mistake that would cost him dearly.


    In the instant their eyes met, the figure before him ceased to be human.


    What replaced it was a grotesque, crab-like monster, its body grotesquely stitched from malformed patches of flesh, an unnatural jumble of fused hands.


    Antennas twitched, weaving through a decapitated human head that grotesquely sat atop its body as the head jerked and twitched like a marionette, its features horribly distorted.


    The creature''s massive claw stretched toward the fish storage area, and when it opened, dozens of crabs spilled out.


    But something was horribly wrong and instead of the usual crustacean forms, each crab bore a human head, twisted and lifeless, their eyes wide, frozen in eternal, silent screams.


    "Merlyn sends his regards."


    Author''s Note: Sorry it took so long guys, I''m just really swamped today. Anyways enjoy.

 Chapter 171 - 164: War Resolution

    Chapter 171 - 164: War Resolution


    "Merlyn sends his regards," the crab-like monster hissed, regurgitating the exact words it had been ordered to utter.


    "AMBUSH! WE GETTING AMBUSHED!" Johnny roared the first thing that came to mind, yanking his pistol from his waist and snapping it forward.


    BANG


    BANG


    BANG


    The shots rang out, not at the grotesque, crab-like monster, but at the horrifying, decapitated heads scuttling onto the docks, their crab-like appendages skittering unnaturally against the wood.


    "Huh-" Louis'' head turned back, confused by the sudden roar only for his pupils to shrink and his words interrupted by someone pushing past him.


    "Benny? BENNY!" Louis shouted, his voice laced with urgency as the moment he saw where Benny was headed, he bolted after him.


    Benny''s breathing was controlled, his pace fast and steady, his eyes locked onto the critters that dared to encroach upon the Luciano Families dock.


    "What the hell is that?!" One of the grunts yelled, barking out with fear laced in his eyes as his feet didn''t step forward, but retreated slightly.


    "Help, HELP!" One of the unfortunate workers who had been near the swarming yelled, wobbling away from the oncoming tide only to trip and fall.


    It was then that the workers paled, rendered almost breathless as they watched the creatures swarm him.


    The decapitated, sewn-on heads suddenly opened their mouths, revealing fangs and mandibles that clicked and chittered, jagged, serrated like grotesque shears.


    These unnatural appendages twitched as if savoring the moment, their sharpened maws capable of slicing through flesh with ease


    Rows of needle-like teeth lined their nowed gaped mouths, dripping not with salvia but with a thick, viscous slime that reeked of decay.


    It was only a second later did that tide of horror overtake the man as he barely had time to scream before they latched onto him, their claws puncturing his skin as their grotesque mouths tore into his flesh.


    Chunks of muscle and sinew were wrenched from his bones, the wet, sickening sounds of crunching and tearing echoing through the docks.


    Blood spurted in violent bursts as the creatures devoured him, their malformed human heads twisting unnaturally, mouths frozen in silent, eternal screams.


    Within moments, all that remained was a bloodied husk, stripped to the bone, as the creatures scuttled forward, hungering for their next victim.


    "JESUS F*CKING CHRIST, BACK UP!" Johnny yelled, his stomach twisting with nausea, but there was no time to be sick.


    His voice cut through the frozen atmosphere, roaring at the runners and workers to fall back since this was way beyond anything they were capable of handling.


    But just as he turned his head, a sudden figure flickered past the edge of his vision as his instincts screamed at him to react, but all he caught was the brief, stuttering image of one of the creatures lunging straight for his face.


    SPLAT


    Green blood splattered onto Johnny''s face as, just before the creature could latch onto him, a crowbar came crashing down on its head, caving in its malformed skull.


    The one wielding the weapon was none other than Benny, his grip tight, his breath steady, and his eyes burning with a straightforward determination.


    "YOU PSYCHO!" Paolo screamed from the side, watching Benny kick over a barrel and take off running across the dock, his crowbar dripping with the grotesque green blood of the creature he had just crushed.


    SPLAT


    Then, as if he were standing at home plate, Benny swung at a flying creature hurtling toward him, his crowbar connecting mid-air with a sickening crunch, launching the grotesque thing away.


    Before he could even pause, another lunged at him, only to be met with the same brutal force, its body sent sprawling.


    While doing all of this, Benny kicked over another barrel, the tide of creatures shifting towards him as their jagged claws scraped across the black liquid spilling onto the docks as their hungered, hollow eyes locked on his running figure.


    Louis huffed, out of breath and stopping right next to Johnny while placing his hands on his knees.


    "Boss, we gotta do something! That psycho''s trying to get himself killed-" Paolo yelled, rushing over but as he spoke, Johnny''s expression shifted, realization dawning in his eyes.


    "KICK OVER THE BARRELS! DUMP THE OIL ONTO THE DOCK!" Johnny roared, his voice cutting through the chaos.


    The evacuating workers, who had been scrambling away, suddenly hesitated before doubling back, their fear momentarily overridden by the urgency in his command.


    "Screw that! I ain''t getting paid to be fish food!" one of the workers yelled, voicing out the opinion of all the others while bolting off the dock without a second thought.


    Before long, the only ones who remained on these infested docks were the grunts and the runners.


    Gritting his teeth, Johnny didn''t waste time arguing as he sprinted to the side, grabbed a barrel, and heaved it over.


    "AHHHHH!" a man screamed, his voice raw with terror as the massive crab-like monster yanked him onto the fish boat.


    The creature callously discarded a decapitated head before its grotesque claws clamped down, tearing into him limb by limb.


    Then, once it discarded the useless limbs, its mandibles shot into the head, piercing through the skull as the severed face twitched violently.


    Beneath the skin, tendrils writhed, slithering through the flesh, puppeteering the muscles as the monster forced the head back to life in its grotesque control.


    "Merlyn sends his regards, Merlyn sends his regards, Merlyn sends his regards¡ª" The decapitated head of the grunt stammered, its voice warped and mechanical, repeating like a broken record.


    The eerie chant droned on, narrating the horror unfolding before them, as if the creature sought to engrave the message into their minds, branding them with fear while their comrade''s lifeless form twitched in agonizing mockery.


    Bam


    Bam


    Bam


    Benny repeatedly kicked over barrels, sprinting for his life as, with every passing second, another creature lunged at him.


    The entire tide had fixated on him, their grotesque appendages now slick with black oil as they skittered closer, seeking to engulf him completely.


    Yet, some stragglers broke away from the horde, their unnatural movements hinting at an eerie intelligence as they slithered toward something, or someone else.


    One particular creature slithered into the dark waters, vanishing beneath the surface with an eerie silence, while the others scuttled toward the grunts and runners desperately tipping over the barrels.


    Their jagged limbs scraped against the wooden planks, closing in with unsettling speed, their grotesque heads twitching and muttering in distorted, inhuman whispers.


    "AHHHHH, GET IT OFF, GET IT OFF!" One grunt roared, tipping over a barrel only for the creature to lunge at its chest.


    Anchoring itself to its flesh with its claws as the man tried to pry it off, staggering backwards only for Paolo to lunge at him.


    SPLAT


    Digging his switchblade into its hollowed eye socket, he tore the creature off the grunt and slammed it onto the ground with a sickening thud.


    Paolo breath came in ragged gasps as he raised his heel, his muscles tensing with raw fury and then, with a sharp grunt, he stomped down mercilessly, grinding it beneath his boot as a splatter of putrid green ichor burst around him.


    "COME ON! THE ONLY THING THEY GOT ON US IS THAT THEY STINK LIKE DAVID!" Paolo yelled, trying to rally the runners as they nervously dodged the scuttling stragglers.


    Morale is a crucial element in warfare, often acting as the invisible force that determined the tide of battle.


    It''s not just about tactics or firepower, but how a soldier can feel at a certain moment that may become the difference between victory and utter collapse.


    Fear, after all, is one of the greatest poisons known to man, spreading like a disease through the ranks.


    A single crack in a soldier''s resolve could ripple outward, turning disciplined formations into panicked retreats.


    History had shown time and time again that armies with lesser numbers and weaker weapons had triumphed simply because their spirit refused to break.


    Conversely, even the most well-equipped forces could be reduced to chaos if doubt and terror seeped into their bones.


    It wasn''t just about survival; it was about belief, belief in the cause, belief that winning was possible, and, most importantly, proof of their own ability to fight and win.


    It was just a single, hateful moment of frustration as Paolo, annoyed at the grown man sobbing over a small, grotesque creature, barked his insult without thinking.


    But what truly caught the attention of the other runners wasn''t the mockery; it was the way he stood firm, unshaken in the face of horror or at least hid it under his annoyance.


    Often more than not, fear thrived in the gaps between courage, latching onto uncertainty like a parasite.


    But Paolo didn''t give it space to fester as his defiance, however crude, was a shield against the creeping terror that sought to break them all.


    A soldier who surrendered to fear was as good as dead, but one who stood firm, even in foolish bravado, could spark something greater, a ripple of resistance in the tide of despair.


    And in that moment, Paolo wasn''t just yelling at a coward; he was challenging the fear itself.


    "Paolo''s right, they ain''t nothing compared to what we hit each other with!" One of the normies yelled, grappling with his fear only for his courage to surge forth.


    Grabbing an old, wooden plank from the side, he sprinted toward one of the creatures scurrying toward the coven kids, who were desperately chanting their spells and with a sharp breath, he swung down.


    SPLAT


    A sickening crunch followed as green blood burst in all directions, the grotesque remains of the creature smeared across the wood.


    For a moment, silence clung to the air, then realization struck as a regular kid, armed with nothing but his own will, had crushed the thing with sheer force.


    That moment of raw defiance rippled through the others as their fear wavered, replaced by something more primal, momentum.


    One by one, the others grabbed whatever they could like boards, bricks, metal scrap and followed suit, emboldened by the simple, brutal truth: these things could die.


    Donning his brass knuckles, Louis pounded his fists together before charging down the path carved out by Benny''s reckless advance.


    His breath came hard and fast, adrenaline fueling every step, until, from his blind spot, a creature lunged and just as its mandibles stretched open, ready to clamp down.


    A single hand rose.


    "Wind Blade."


    WHOOSH


    SPLAT


    A razor-sharp gust sliced clean through the air, and the creature was suddenly gone, its shredded remains splattering against the docks.


    Louis felt the warm spray of green blood coat his cheek as he turned slightly, locking eyes with Jeremiah, who had just finished casting his spell.


    Neither spoke since words weren''t needed and they simply nodded, a silent agreement forming between them before both charged forward once more.


    Benny had nearly exhausted the length of the dock, his boots skidding against the worn wooden planks as he reached the very edge.


    Just as he raised his leg to kick over the final barrel, a blur of movement cut through his vision as a creature lunged.


    But before he could react, its jagged mandibles sank deep into his left arm, ripping through flesh and muscle.


    Pain exploded up his limb, his nerves screaming in protest, but Benny didn''t falter, gritting his teeth, swinging his crowbar down with everything he had.


    SPLAT


    The iron met the creature''s skull, caving it inward with a sickening crunch as green blood spewed from the wound, coating his hand and arm, but that didn''t stop his next motion.


    He ripped his weapon free and, with a furious kick, sent the last barrel toppling over, its thick, black contents spilling across the dock.


    Louis scanned the surroundings, his head jerking from side to side before his eyes locked onto something, an idea clicking into place as he didn''t rush toward Benny and instead, he bolted to the side.


    SPLAT


    SPLAT


    More creatures fell, but the wounds on Benny were stacking, his movements slowing as blood seeped from his torn arm.


    He stood at the very end of the dock, his back nearly against the ocean, yet his eyes remained locked on the nearing horde.


    Benny just kept swinging, his crowbar a blur with his defiance, each strike cracking through flesh and bone.


    But for every one he took down, more came, their claws clicking against the soaked, black wood as they closed in.


    "BENNY, JUMP!" Louis roared, his hands fumbling over the controls as he recklessly swung the crane hook in a wide arc.


    Most people would have hesitated, looked around, questioned the shout, maybe even frozen in fear for just a second too long.


    But Benny didn''t, he just jumped.


    The world blurred as his body left the dock, the wind rushing past his ears and just as he turned midair, the heavy steel hook came swinging into view, way too fast and way too sudden.


    BAM


    It slammed into his ribs, the impact jarring every bone in his body, but instead of tumbling helplessly into the ocean below, Benny bit down.


    His jaw clenched tight, his arms wrapped around the metal with a vice grip, and with sheer, unyielding will, he held on.


    Louis bit his outstretched tongue, his fingers tight on the crane''s controls, the taste of blood sharp in his mouth at his own teeth pressing into his gums as he fought to steady the hook.


    Benny''s blond hair whipped in the air, his body swinging wildly, but his eyes remained locked on the dock below.


    From up here, he could see everything as the runners, the grunts, fighting for their lives against those godforsaken creatures.


    He could hear Johnny barking out orders, trying to keep it all together, until his gaze lifted and his jaw went slack.


    "Benny-"


    "DO IT!" Benny roared, his body twisting with the crane''s momentum.


    Johnny didn''t hesitate as his hand darted into the torn fabric of his suit, pulling out his lighter.


    With a flick of his wrist, the wheel spun, a small but deadly flame sparking to life.


    The horde, the same one that had been laser-focused on Benny''s swinging figure, froze for just a moment.


    Their twisted, malformed eyes tracked the arc of the lighter as Johnny smirked, his voice carrying over the crackling docks.


    "F*ck your regards."


    Without any hint of gestation, he chucked the lighter as the runners and grunts didn''t need to hear another word.


    The second they saw the tiny flame descend, they bolted as the lighter slowly touched down onto the center of the blackened dock.


    WHOOSH


    BOOM


    A fiery explosion roared through the air, consuming everything in its path.


    Flames surged outward in a violent wave, devouring the wooden planks and swallowing the blackened oil in an instant.


    The horde, this mindless horde, unfeeling, unknowingly doomed, crawled forward without hesitation.


    Their hollowed eyes stared blankly as the inferno slammed into them, their bodies catching like dry kindling.


    A chorus of unnatural shrieks filled the air as their flesh bubbled, crab-like limbs blackening.


    One by one, the creatures collapsed under the weight of their own burning husks, writhing, but still, they crawled and still, they pushed forward.


    But the fire was absolute, consuming the drones as if it was their fate to fall here.


    The dock groaned under the relentless inferno, wood splitting and cracking as planks caved into the churning waters below.


    Smoke billowed high into the night, a dark pillar marking the end of the creatures'' rampage.


    "Benny! Benny!" Louis yelled, stopping the crane head above the end of the dock just as Benny lost his strength and fell but before his limp body could crash down, arms reached out.


    Jeremiah and the other coven kids had conjured a cushion beneath him as Benny''s blue eyes fluttered open, met with the sight of their frowning faces.


    "You said you''re Benny, right?" Jeremiah asked, subtly acknowledging the reckless kid before him.


    Cough


    "With a Y," Benny corrected, making sure Jeremiah wasn''t confused as the kid rolled his eyes just while Paolo lugged himself forward from the side.


    "Good work, psycho." Paolo gruffed, his own way of giving a compliment as he limped, a deep cut on his left leg.


    "Aye, help all the injured and-" Johnny ordered, watching the kids and grunts gathering at the end only for his entire body to freeze at the words.


    "Merlyn sends his regards, Merlyn sends his regards, Merlyn sends his regards-"


    Amidst the billowing smoke, the hoarse message rang out, the flames seemingly insignificant as the monstrous crab-like figure slowly emerged from the depths of the blaze.


    The words faded only as the head, melting and blackening under the searing heat, was finally discarded.


    "OH, COME ON!" Paolo yelled, voicing his frustration for all of them as his slow pace turned into a full-on charge.


    Boom


    BOOM


    The dock groaned under the relentless advance of the crab-like monster, its hulking form barreling forward with the sole intent of disfiguring them, to make its message brutally clear with their heads.


    "STAND YOUR GROUND! DON''T LET THIS F*CKING MONSTER INTO OUR TERRITORY!" Johnny barked, holding firm as a grunt shoved a tommy gun into his hands.


    The other grunts raised their muzzles, unleashing a relentless barrage of bullets, while the coven kids cast their spells in unison.


    But the bullets, hell, even the spells, barely seemed to faze it as the hulking beast pressed forward, its grotesque form shrugging off the onslaught like raindrops on steel.


    If brute force was all it was, then only brute force could stop it.


    Benny struggled to his feet, determination flaring in his eyes, but before he could move, Louis had already charged ahead.


    "LOUIS, WHAT ARE¡ªHOLD YOUR FIRE!" Johnny yelled, his voice cutting through the chaos as he watched the kid barrel toward the hulking figure, a beast three times his size.


    Thump


    Thump


    Thump


    Louis'' heart pounded against his ribs as every instinct screamed at him to turn back, to retreat but his feet didn''t listen.


    He charged forward, eyes locked onto the monster that would undoubtedly kill him.


    His X-Gene flared within him, anchoring his body to the ground as if he were carved from the very earth itself.


    Louis stood, not as a mere kid, but as the immovable object he was meant to be as his eyes burned with resolve that wasn''t here to win.


    He was here to hold the line, for the family.


    ''Five seconds. I''LL HOLD THIS BASTARD FOR FIVE SECONDS!''


    The thought roared through his mind as he braced himself, knowing full well what it meant as for once in his life, he would be the shield, the sacrifice, he wouldn''t be the one caught behind.


    The crab-like monster lunged, its massive claws raised high, casting a shadow that swallowed him whole.


    "The child has resolve!"


    The words resonated within the air as Louis barely had time to process what had happened.


    One second, he was ready to take the full force of the beast''s charge, and the next, a figure blurred past him.


    CRACK


    Ricky, draped in his black knight attire, wielded not his sword, but a shield with a brutal, unyielding wall of force and with perfect timing, he slammed it into the monster''s face.


    BAM


    The impact rippled through the air, a sickening crunch echoing across the docks as the crab-like beast''s momentum, once unstoppable, was devoured by the shield''s sheer defense.


    But Ricky didn''t stop there, planting his feet, he drove it forward, forcing all his weight and power into the strike.


    The creature''s thick, fleshy shell fractured, splitting open like brittle stone before it was hurled backward, crashing into the inferno behind it.


    "What is your name, young warrior!" Alexander, steadying himself with a firm grip on Ricky''s shoulder, boastfully asked while turning his gaze to the boy before him.


    Louis, still catching his breath, felt the weight of those words settle over him as his chest heaved, his heart pounded as his eyes widened.


    Before he could even think to answer, Ricky slowly turned, his black knight armor gleaming against the raging fire behind him.


    A blue aura swirled around his form, flickering like ghostly embers as his presence alone made the air feel heavier, charged with something beyond mere strength, something ancient, something unstoppable.


    Then, just as the blue aura sought to corrupt his form, Ricky exuded a towering blaze of green aura that surged forth, consuming the encroaching energy and forcing it back down.


    The sheer force of it sent a gust rippling through the battlefield, kicking up dust and embers as the swirling green light cast Ricky''s figure in an almost spectral glow.


    "L-L-L-L-L-" Louis stuttered, unable to even voice what was asked of him as Ricky raised an eyebrow at him.


    "What''s wrong with him?" Ricky asked, turning his head towards Alexander still waiting for the name to present itself.


    ''How dare you not only diminish my formidable form to a blunt object but also disregard its price!'' The Ebony Shield bellowed with pride, its essence pulsing indignantly at Ricky''s crude yet effective wielding.


    But Ricky barely acknowledged its protests as his sovereign aura flared, a towering blaze of willpower that pushed back the creeping madness seeking to seep into his mind.


    Losing himself to these ebony artifacts, that was the one thing that Ricky absolutely refused to accept.


    If one paid close attention, they would notice the subtle shifts in his energy, the way he had been training, refining, and reinforcing his sovereign aura.


    This power wasn''t just an extension of him, it was him.


    His will, his defiance, his refusal to be controlled and so long as Ricky breathed, his mind would remain his own.


    Before, he was broken, a man burdened by his own cowardice, the cracks in his resolve laid bare for all to see that had stunted his own Sovereign ability.


    But now, Ricky''s eyes swirled with his sovereign aura, a force of sheer dominance that sought to crush anything in his path.


    "Boss Slick, his name is Louis," Benny said emotionlessly from the side, his hollow eyes flickering at the sight of Ricky, who turned to him, realization settling in.


    "Hey, what''s up, Benny?" Ricky waved casually, acknowledging the catalyst behind his runners finally getting along.


    The other kids stood in stunned silence, slack jawed at Ricky actually knowing his name, but Benny, unfazed, simply waved back with the same detached expression.


    "The sky," Benny said, looking up and nodding to himself before turning his gaze back to Ricky.


    "No, dumbass, I meant how are you?" Ricky burst out laughing with Alexander chuckling as well, standing fearlessly before the two of them.


    "I think I broke my ribs," Benny informed him flatly, actually telling him of his current state as Ricky nodded, taking in the state of things before shifting his gaze to Johnny.


    "Aye, Johnny, get everyone out of here," Ricky chuckled while ordering, his nod carrying a subtle approval, an unspoken acknowledgment that Johnny had done well.


    "YES BOSS!" Johnny saulted, yanking Benny and Louis away before kicking the slack jawed Paolo and Jeremiah forward.


    ''I do not understand why I was brought in if you are simply going to use my useless sibling to hit the creature.'' The Ebony Blade stated plainly as his sibling glared at him hatefully within the mental space.


    "BECAUSE I AM THE WALL THAT HOLDS THE LINE-"


    "And yet, he used you like a mere club," the Ebony Blade scoffed, taunting his younger sibling as the stubborn, brutish shield stomped in place.


    All while the Ebony Crown remained deathly quiet, observing Ricky because what had just happened shouldn''t have been possible.


    Each Ebony Artifact carries a power that manifests at the cost of its user''s mind.


    The Ebony Shield''s ability allows it to turn away, absorb, or redirect any blow directed toward it, granting its wielder unparalleled defense, just as its edged counterpart can cleave through any obstruction.


    However, magic comes with a price.


    For the Ebony Artifacts, that price is the user''s sanity and yet, that aura, Ricky''s sovereign aura, had pulsed and neutralized the aftereffects, seemingly allowing him to bypass the restrictions entirely.


    ''I see.'' The Ebony Crown thought to itself, turning its gaze towards the Ebony Blade turning away from the Ebony Shield throwing a fit.


    BAM


    BAM


    The sounds of hte crab-like monster stomping on the deck resumed, prompting Ricky to look up at it as the smoke parted at its charge resuming.


    "This is it, THIS IS THE EXHILARATION I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR!" Alexander roared from Ricky''s shoulder, his voice prompting Ricky to explode forward.


    Ricky''s body glided over the deck, the ebony artifacts pulled away by his translucent hands as his foot outstretched forward.


    "THE PURE BLISS OF BATTLE!"


    BOOM


    The two figures collided, Ricky drove his heel into the same fracture in the creature''s shell, shattering it further as his foot sank into the soft flesh beneath.


    A brief silence, a blip of air, then the crab-like monster was sent hurtling backward once more.


    But this time, Ricky didn''t relent as he pressed down harder, driving his foot deeper into the wound.


    The beast skidded across the dock, gliding atop the charred wood, its momentum dragging it toward the inferno.


    And Ricky, unwavering, rode atop it, flames reflecting in his eyes as the creature finally slowed to a halt.


    Snapping its abominable claws, the creature lunged at Ricky but he caught them with ease, his grip tightening like a vice as a bloodthirsty, hateful smile spread across his face.


    "Did you think I''d just kill ya like that?" Ricky asked, laughing amidst the towering inferno spiraling around him.


    SPLAT


    "HUH?!" Ricky asked once more, yanking harder, slowly tearing the crab-like monster''s arms from its body as green blood continuously splattered from the severed ends.


    The last tendrils of makeshift tendons snapped as Ricky tore the crab-like monster''s arms apart, green blood spurting beneath it as the creature finally reacted to the pain, writhing under his heel in agony.


    "Merlyn wants to start some sh*t, fine," Ricky muttered, his eyes cold amidst the heat spiraling around him as he raised the detached arms.


    SPLAT


    "Then let''s go to f*cking war," Ricky heaved, slamming the claws down onto the monster''s head, splattering it into fleshy pieces.


    "What do you say we write a message across dimensions, Alexander?" Ricky asked, flicking his hand as he pulsed his own flames through the inferno consuming his dock.


    The green, sovereign pyrokinesis instantly dominated the meager orange embers, swallowing them whole in its oppressive glow.


    With a slow, deliberate grip of his fingers, Ricky clenched his fist, snuffing out the flames in an instant, leaving only thick, rolling smoke in their wake.


    "I''D SAY TO USE THEIR BLOOD AS THE INK!" Alexander cackled manically, his voice laced with the thrill of impending carnage.


    "Then let''s write them a f*cking masterpiece."


    10 minutes later,


    The massive, dismembered carcass of the crab-like monster crashed onto the meeting table with a sickening


    THUD


    Its green blood splattering across the polished wood and dripping onto the floor as the room fell into an immediate silence, the weight of Ricky''s arrival pressing down on the assembled figures like a vice.


    Ricky, drenched in the creature''s lifeblood, rolled his shoulders before cracking his neck, his sovereign aura still pulsing faintly around him before it settled.


    He exhaled, then turned his gaze toward the gathered leaders, his expression dark with satisfaction.


    "Merlyn wants to f*ck around?" Ricky muttered, walking around the table not with his suit worn, but his black knight armor adorned.


    "Then let''s make sure he finds out." Ricky cursed, plopping down at the seat at the head of the table.


    "Does that mean?" Morgana asked, placing her hand above her evident smile as Ricky leaned forward.


    "Yeah, this ain''t no war committee anymore. This is the real deal, a war meeting," Ricky declared, making his stance clear as everyone sharpened their expressions.


    At first, this was just a committee, meant to discuss the possibility of responding but after this attack, Ricky changed the script.


    "Ain''t no more debates, no back-and-forth on whether we should respond," Ricky continued, his voice carrying the weight of finality.


    He swept his gaze across the table, the bloodied remains of the monster serving as an unspoken declaration.


    "This is war."


    The air in the room thickened, each figure shifting, their expressions hardening since what was once a discussion of possibilities had now become a necessity, an inevitability.


    "Frank." Ricky uttered, his words speaking Frank into existence as he stood up from his seat position at the very back.


    "YES BOSS!" Frank shouted, his chest puffing and his voice booming as he looked forward.


    "Grab the mobsters, lock down the territories, nothing in and nothing out without our supervision." Ricky ordered, the other mobsters all standing up since this was now a time to act.


    "YOU GOT IT BOSS!" Frank affirmed, thumping his chest and jerking his head to beckon the guys out the door.


    They all shuffled out, unholstering their pistols while all tricking out until Ricky was now looking at Elias.


    "Elias-"


    "Do not worry, I shall be the shadow clinging to every alley''s wall." Elias stood up as his telephat sounded, bowing delightfully as his eyes formed into crescent moons.


    "Of course, for a small fee." Elias spoke his tone through the telepath, only leaving upon seeing Ricky nod his head.


    "You know this war is gonna drain the family''s wallet, right?" Lucky said, eyeing Ricky. He knew Ricky had been grinding to build their fortune, but war had a way of bleeding even the richest dry.


    "True kings do not seek riches, they chase greatness. And in greatness, wealth follows," Alexander declared, raising his mighty gaze to Lucky.


    Lucky opened his mouth to argue, then just shook his head with a chuckle since he honestly didn''t have a retort to that.


    "Alright, ya got me there." Lucky stood, adjusting his fedora with a smirk.


    "And Slick." Lucky placed the fedora on his head, tipping it downwards as his glare was barely caught and yet, it was so fierce.


    "Luciano''s don''t retaliate, we make examples." Lucky left his parting words, leaving it all in Ricky''s grasp as he clenched his fist.


    "Could you all give me a second with Morgana?" Ricky asked the others left, more specifically, Raven, Agatha, and finally, Selene.


    Raven and Agatha looked at Ricky''s unusually serious expression, understanding and promptly leaving only for Selene to stay behind.


    "What?" Ricky asked, clearly not in the mood as Selene had her smile tugging at her lips.


    "What?" Ricky asked, his patience wearing thin as Selene''s lips curled into a knowing smile.


    "May I be forthright with you?" she inquired, her fingers gliding across the table, just skimming over the streaks of green blood.


    "Can you even be honest?" Ricky muttered, tilting his head as Selene chuckled, lowering her gaze for a moment.


    "Sometimes," Selene admitted, swaying her hips as she closed the distance between them.


    "The reason I am here today is to inform you that the Hellfire Ball has changed its setting," Selene revealed, halting just before Ricky''s seated form.


    Sigh


    "Where?"


    "Berlin, more specifically, at the gathering of the Olympics," Selene said with a warm smile, her fingers trailing over Ricky''s bruised cheek in a slow, almost teasing caress.


    "It''s August 1st, two months away, to be exact, and you promised me you''d be there," Selene revealed, reminding him of their exchange at the Continental.


    "I do not take kindly to those who break their promises."


    With that, she withdrew her hand, turning away with a deliberate sway of her hips as she shook her ass in a seductive way towards the double doors.


    The door closed, and with it, Morgana''s chuckle echoed through the quiet space as Ricky leaned back with an annoyed sigh, rubbing a hand over his face.


    "If I''d known-"


    "Why did you cover for me back there?" Ricky asked, referring to when Morgana claimed he possessed interdimensional energy from the Otherworld instead of revealing his connection to the Nethergods.


    "Cover for you?" Morgana turned slightly, the dim light catching the sharp curve of her smirk.


    "You told them I had interdimensional energy from the Otherworld instead of mentioning my connection to the Nethergods."


    "Because, dear Ricky, some truths are better left unspoken. Even among allies." Morgana chuckled, her fingers dancing idly along the back of a chair.


    Morgana recalled their earlier conversation, the one that had bound her into this hallowed husk of a puppet, stripped of any properties that could make her a threat.


    Ricky neither trusted her nor could he afford to as it was obvious she had her own agenda, her own reasons for keeping him in play.


    But now, he had been dragged into a conflict he had no intention of prolonging and now, he was going to end it.


    "What was it you said earlier about being on the other end of the table?" Morgana asked, tilting her head as she leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand.


    "I said I was at the other end of it." Ricky prompted, smiling to the side as those words had come back to bite him.


    "Then, now that I have your ear, why don''t we discuss the terms of our alliance-"


    "How about we become allies until Merlyn is dead?" Ricky leaned forward, deciding to take control of the negotiations as Morgana tapped her cheek.


    "And?" Morgana asked, watching Ricky place the ebony blade on the table.


    "And I''ll cut you loose, but if you betray me I''ll-"


    "Ricky, the only thing that matters to me is reclaiming my rightful throne. If you help me achieve that, I will forge an alliance that endures for the entirety of my reign." Morgana extended her hand, offering not just her allegiance, but the promise of Camelot''s future by his side.


    "Then you better get ready, ''cause we''re leaving soon." Ricky clasped her hand firmly before reaching for the weapon at his side as he stood.


    "Then I shall prepare." Morgana couldn''t contain the excitement curling at her lips, she had just secured a deal with a true Black Knight.


    With a purposeful stride, she exited the room, already envisioning the siege that would shape the future.


    The only ones left were Ricky and the lifeless corpse before him and just as he was about to speak, a thought crossed his mind, prompting him to weave a soundproof spell around them through his grimoire, sealing their conversation from prying ears.


    "It is better to be careful since you said this guy is calculating." Ricky said, leaning back in the chair as Alexander nodded while gazing up at him.


    "So, are you thinking what I''m thinking?" Ricky asked, his gaze locking onto Alexander.


    Alexander slowly nodded, the weight of the unspoken truth settling between them, something they had both kept hidden until now.


    "It seems so, then-"


    "It has to be the coven. It''s the only thing that makes sense," Ricky said, crossing his arms as Alexander continued to nod, his expression darkening


    "Then shall we hunt this traitor?" Alexander asked, being scooped up by Ricky who placed him on his shoulder.


    "Alexander, we call them rats," Ricky said, placing his hand over the corpse. Flames sparked to life beneath his palm, slowly consuming the chimera''s twisted remains.


    "Then let us hunt this rat."


    Ricky soon afterwards exited the building while taking a deep breath of fresh air, about to go on a walk to really clear his mind when he saw Bumpy running over to him.


    "Slick, I found them!" Bumpy waved the paper, the same one that was given to Ricky who raised an eyebrow.


    "Wait, you mean that you''ve already found the girls from Harlme-"


    "No Slick, I found them all."


    Meanwhile in Staten Island,


    One of the severed heads slowly surfaced from the water, creeping through the shadows as if guided by an unseen force.


    It slithered through the underbrush, navigating the dark like a specter before slipping through an open window.


    Inside, it crawled with purpose, inching its way across the floor until it reached a study, its final destination.


    There, under the dim glow of candlelight, sat a man. A familiar figure, rarely seen by the family but one who held a high position within Agatha''s coven.


    The old man looked up, revealing himself as Cedric Hawke, a member of the coven''s council and its second-oldest elder.


    However, rather than fear or alarm, his expression remained neutral as the decapitated head slithered toward his desk.


    Then, as if expecting it, Cedric reached for a letter opener and plunged it into the skull as the creature did not resist, revealing it had been made for this purpose.


    As he tore the bone apart, no brain was revealed within. Instead, a crystal ball gleaned from the hollowed cavity.


    With careful precision, Cedric placed the orb on his desk before lowering himself to one knee, awaiting whatever message would come forth.


    "Cedric, it is time for you to once again contribute to our great cause." Merlyn''s voice echoed from the crystal ball, rich with authority and purpose.


    "For the promised king," Merlyn''s words echoed from the crystal ball, resonating through the dimly lit chamber.


    Cedric lifted his head, his sharp, aged eyes gleaming with an understanding that ran deeper than mere obedience.


    "We must bear his sins."


    Author''s Note: Ik what I said about posting earlier but I was just playing CK3 and watching Game of thrones. Which is why I couldnt'' help but think why hasn''t anyone ever made a f*cking fic about both of them, COMBINED, I just don''t get it but I was slacking and that''s on me.

 Chapter 172 - 165: Reunion Tour

    Chapter 172 - 165: Reunion Tour


    "What do you mean all of them-"


    "All the names on the list." Bumpy interrupted Ricky, pointing to the names as he scrunched his brows.


    "You''re kidding." Ricky asked, knowing full well that in this day and age, it wasn''t easy to find people.


    Unlike his first life, where finding someone wasn''t relatively hard, this time period wasn''t built for it.


    No digital footprints, no web of connections tracking every action, just rumors, crumpled paper trails, and walls that led nowhere.


    A man could literally slip away with nothing but a train ticket and a fresh change of clothes.


    No social security numbers, no surveillance cameras at every turn, no algorithms predicting your next move.


    If someone didn''t want to be found, they weren''t going to be.


    Cops were really only useful when there was a reason to get involved, but even then it had to be the town or city they were hunkered down in.


    Private investigators were too slow, expensive, and chasing ghosts with nothing but outdated addresses and whispers from the past.


    It was why it took Lucky so long to even find Irene, his only reach stretched so far, and he had to actively search.


    So when Bumpy said he had found them all, literally every single name on the list, Ricky found it hard to believe.


    "Not the broads I circled, but-"


    "Everyone, here." Bumpy rubbed his mouth, handing him a list, one with addresses written on it.


    "Even the orphans-"


    "I found them all Slick, what is so hard to believe, is it a skin thing-"


    "Oh, f*ck off," Ricky scoffed, glancing to the side at Bumpy, who was pulling the race card.


    "Are these?" Alexander asked, his whiskers twitching as he read the names listed on the paper.


    "Yeah, these are all my bastards and the woman who should''ve pumped them out." Ricky rubbed the names between his fingers, pocketing them as he looked at Bumpy.


    "Well, good work, I''ll get back with you-"


    "Woah, woah, woah." Bumpy held up his hands, halting Ricky''s words as he scrunched his brows as he looked down at the hand on his suit.


    "I just spent almost one to two months getting all those names for you, and you''re just benching me?" Bumpy asked, laughing, his tone trailing off as he took in the shock on Ricky''s face.


    "Uh huh, what did you think was gonna happen? We go on some sort of road trip-"


    Snort


    Ricky interrupted himself, snorting out a stream of laughter as Bumpy shook his head, knowing exactly what was coming.


    "Seriously? Bumpy, my man, you hate me," Ricky chuckled through the sentence, looking at Bumpy, who rubbed the back of his neck.


    "Listen Slick, you don''t get it but going through all these hurdles got me invested, I wanna see-"


    "My bastards, you want to come with me to see my bastards?" Ricky genuinely asked, raising an eyebrow at Bumpy.


    "I know, I know it sounds weird, but come on, how the hell do you even have that many bastards at f*cking eighteen?!" Bumpy laughed, unable to hold back, shaking his head at the sheer absurdity of it all as the number of kids Ricky had was insane.


    "Flip a coin?" Ricky asked, reaching into his suit pocket. Bumpy shrugged, knowing it wouldn''t be the end of the world if he failed.


    "Call it," Ricky said, flicking the coin into the air as it spiraled toward the sky as both of them watched it, the tension hanging in the air for a split second.


    "Heads."


    "Tails."


    10 minutes later,


    "Hey, hey, hey, no smoking in my car," Bumpy stopped Ricky, eyeing him as he pulled out his cigar and raised an eyebrow.


    "I can''t kick my feet up on your dash, I can''t eat, I can''t even drink, but smoking-"


    "Smoking stains the leather, I don''t come into your house with my muddy shoes on so I''m asking you, as a man, to respect my house." Bumpy cut him off, giving him a stern look as if that was the only rule that mattered.


    "You''re acting like you live here," Ricky laughed, watching Bumpy slowly turn forward, his smile freezing on his face.


    "You don''t really live in your car, right?" Ricky asked again, but Bumpy was silent, staring ahead as they drove through the streets of Staten Island as the hum of the engine filled the silence, the question lingering in the air.


    "It''s been a tough year," Bumpy muttered, his eyes flicking between Ricky and the cigar, before Ricky finally pocketed it with a sigh.


    "Fine, but-left, take a left," Ricky suddenly said, sitting up straighter as Bumpy followed his instruction.


    They turned onto a quiet street, pulling into a neighborhood that looked like something straight out of a magazine, with pristine houses and manicured lawns stretching down either side which stunned Bumpy.


    "Alright, I''ll be like five minutes, keep it running." Ricky patted Bumpy shoulder, getting out of the car as all the white residents looked at Bumpy.


    It was safe to say that in this age, in this high-class neighborhood, Bumpy stood out like a sore thumb, and he knew it all too well.


    He slouched in his seat, his usual gruff demeanor replaced with a deep, heavy sigh.


    The pristine surroundings, the neatly trimmed lawns, the houses that looked like they could belong in a dream, all of it felt out of place for someone like him.


    "Is there not some slight possibility that it could be-" Alexander began, trying to reframe his thoughts, but Ricky shook his head, cutting him off.


    "Think about it. I usually keep those powers locked down. And when I did use them, the only ones who could''ve seen it must''ve been the coven." Ricky''s voice was low, his eyes narrowing as he recalled the events as the pieces of the puzzle were starting to fall into place, but there was still a lingering doubt.


    Sigh


    Ricky let out a heavy sigh, rubbing his forehead as he took two slow steps back from the door.


    Honestly, he had only guessed there was a mole, but if he was right, this would be a serious problem.


    The coven wasn''t just vital to the Luciano family, it was deeply intertwined with Lucky Incorporated.


    The only way to supplement the advanced blueprints Ricky had provided was through their magical engineering program, which had, unknowingly to most, been converted into a workforce for Lucky Incorporated.


    While the coven wasn''t insanely powerful in terms of raw firepower, their abilities more than compensated, allowing them to generate wealth in ways no ordinary business could.


    That was why he needed them under his control, but after everything with Morgana, after the way she had infiltrated the coven, Ricky knew that if he started digging into the coven again, it would leave everyone feeling sour.


    The reason?


    Because literally everyone in the coven hated Merlyn after discovering that the Ordo Dracium, the very faction that had mercilessly slaughtered them in waves, forcing them to flee across the globe twice, now had a direct link to them.


    "Does this make sense?" Ricky actually questioned himself, looking at Alexander who was scratching his head.


    "I mean, like, they should hate him, f*cking hate him," Ricky said, echoing what any coven member would feel.


    Ricky knew this all too well because the new favorite pastime among grieving coven members was torturing Ordo Dracium operatives until their screams expressed their unbridled hatred.


    That was how deeply they despised the witch hunters which he literally saw when he went into their dungeon.


    "Wait, holy sh*t, I got an idea." Ricky''s head snapped up, eyes widening as the realization struck him.


    For once in his life, the idea came to him, completely his own, not something handed down by someone else.


    5 minutes later,


    "Really?" Agatha asked, sitting across from Ricky as he held Zatanna in his arms, the child nuzzling her cheek against him.


    "What? Too much?" Ricky smirked, tossing Zatanna into the air. She let out a gleeful giggle before he caught her effortlessly, settling her back in his arms.


    "I just didn''t expect you to come here asking for the coven''s help, that''s all." Agatha raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised, as Ricky tossed Zatanna into the air again.


    "Oh, come on. That bastard f*cked with you guys for decades. It''s only natural I come to you, baby." Ricky chuckled, catching Zatanna as she let out a mad giggle, snug in his arms.


    "And besides, it''s like you always the said, I should interact more with the coven-"


    "By attending our meetings or actually taking a leadership role, not by recruiting members for a battle." Agatha sighed heavily, leaning back and crossing her arms.


    Instead of Ricky blatantly stating there was a mole, he had, actually, come up with another idea.


    "Listen, I learned my lesson the first time I got my ass kicked by Dracula, having an army, even if it ain''t as powerful as me, is better than having none at all," Ricky said, cradling Zatanna as he spoke to Agatha.


    "All I''m asking is that you bring it to the coven, see if they want a shot at revenge. I''m not forcing anyone, but I do want to personally vet the ones who step up, make sure I can trust them to watch my back." Ricky asked, looking towards Agatha who slowly bobbed her head at his words since they made sense to her.


    Rather than outright accusing the coven of harboring a rat, Ricky figured this was the better move, letting them come to him, willingly, while he sifted through for the mole himself.


    However, the reason he took this approach was that nearly every adult member, excluding most of the younger generation, should actively seek him out for this.


    The older members still carried the deep sorrow and hatred for the Ordo Dracium''s actions, while the younger ones hadn''t fully inherited that pain.


    Through this method, it would be suspicious if any high-ranking members opted out, significantly narrowing down the list of potential traitors.


    His so-called "vetting" process wouldn''t be anything elaborate, just a series of questions, gauging their reactions, looking for the telltale signs of the rat.


    "I won''t lie, the only reason I hesitate is because I assume the majority of the coven will agree," Agatha admitted, pressing a hand to her forehead as her grievances outweighed even her own hatred.


    Though she wanted to go with Ricky, she had more pressing matters, specifically, the two children playing next to him and the one growing in her stomach.


    "Baby, listen, this is a great way for the high-ranking members to get used to me since you know most of the elders don''t like me." Ricky explained, essentially spelling it out.


    It was no secret, the younger generation admired how Ricky had clawed his way up the ranks, but the pendulum swung both ways.


    The elders and some high-ranking members were aggressive, maybe even jealous, that an outsider had stormed in, soared to the top and then boned Agatha.


    Sigh


    "Well, alright. I''ll call an emergency meeting and see if I can help you on this front," Agatha sighed, finally agreeing to Ricky''s words since it was always hard for her to say no to him.


    Agatha nodded as he stood up, but before he could take a step, Zatanna latched onto his leg, giggling as she clung to him like a koala.


    "I have to-"


    "Nooooooooooooooo~" Zatanna whined, holding Ricky''s leg tighter, shaking her head as she was suddenly pried off.


    Sniff


    "You always have to go, Daddy~" Zatanna sniffled, her big eyes welling up with tears as she clung to Ricky.


    "How about this, when all this is out of the way, just me and you, we''ll go get some ice cream. Just the two of us. Sounds good?" Ricky asked, cradling her in his arms and gently wiping away the tears before they could fall.


    Sniff


    "Really?" Zatanna asked, looking down as she tried to pout, though the smile threatening to bloom on her face betrayed her efforts.


    "Really, really." Ricky chuckled, pressing a kiss to her forehead as Zatanna huffed, puffing out her cheeks before holding out her pinky.


    "Pinky swear," Zatanna insisted, her eyes narrowing with determination Ricky just chuckled, slowly hooking his pinky around hers, his smile widening.


    "Pinky swear."


    Zatanna nodded firmly at this sentiment, wiping her eyes and being the big girl she wanted ot be as she was put down.


    "Ricky, what about Johnny-" Agatha whispered, not wanting to leave him out as Ricky shrugged.


    "Johnny do you want to-"


    "No." Johnny interrupted, swinging his sword in the air as he was more or less unamused by his father.


    "Young Johnny!" Alexander''s voice boomed, his words causing Johnny''s head to jerk backwards before his eyes sparkled.


    "ALEXANDER!" Johnny''s giddy voice sounded, bolting over to Ricky and looking up at the mighty gerbil resting on his shoulder.


    "Your father is about to march into battle. When I was a boy, and my father, Philip II of Macedon, prepared to face the relentless front of war, I always saw him off since there might be a time when he would never return," Alexander lectured, having remained silent until he noticed Johnny showing slight disrespect toward Ricky.


    He had remained silent up until now, understanding the importance of farewells since in his time, such moments could very well be the last.


    No matter how he felt about his own father, Philip II of Macedon, Alexander had always seen him off before war, so he would never have to live with regret of never being able to say goodbye.


    "O-Oh~" Johnny ducked his head, clasping his hands together since Alexander rarely ever showed such disappointment.


    "By dad." Johnny muttered, trying to hold back the sudden wave of tears that hit him until Ricky got onto one knee and ruffled his blond hair.


    "Don''t listen to him, I''m coming back." Ricky chuckled, pulling JOhnny into a hug before releasing him.


    "And when I come back, I''ll take you with me on one of Alexander''s escapades." Ricky, knowing how much Alexander meant to Johnny, watched as the boy''s eyes sparkled with excitement before he eagerly nodded.


    "Yes!" Johnny laughed madly, dashing around with his sword, while Ricky turned toward Agatha with a smile.


    Pulling her closer, he leaned in for a soft kiss as Agatha cupped both his cheeks, her fingers pressing gently into his skin as his hands trailed down her back, slow and deliberate, savoring the warmth of her body against his.


    "Don''t do anything stupid, okay?" Agatha whispered, breaking the kiss and resting her forehead onto his as he chuckled.


    "You''re acting like I''m about to go right his second-"


    "Ricky, you always find yourself in situations, wherever you go." Agatha heaved out a sigh, shaking her head since Ricky was a trouble magnet.


    "Do not fear, for I, Alexander the Great, am here." Alexander thumped his furry chest, watching Agatha smile warmly at him before she nodded.


    "You''re right, I just worry," Agatha murmured, stepping back slightly. Ricky smirked, pressing a kiss to his hand before playfully flicking it toward her, as if sending the kiss her way.


    Walking out of the mansion, Ricky walked down the steps until he saw a more people suddenly appearing on the streest as a comtoin was taking place.


    "I didn''t do nothing-" Bumpy yelled, only to be pushed against teh car as an officer pulled out hsi cuffs.


    "Save it for the judge." The cop scoffed, looking at Bumpy for nothing more than what he was, a black man.


    "Aye, what the f*ck are you doing!" Ricky barked, storming down the stairs as the arrogant smirk on the cop''s face vanished instantly at the sight of him.


    "M-M-Mr.Lucaino, what are you-"


    "Nah, the real question is what the f*ck are you doing." Ricky strode over to the driver''s side, shoving the cop backward as the officer stumbled, hands raised, the cuffs clinking together as he tried to steady himself.


    "We received a call that a suspicious man was lurking in a neighborhood-"


    "Oh, so the guys with me are suspicious now?!" Ricky''s grin widened, deliberately pressing the situation further, his tone laced with provocation.


    "N-N-N-No I-I-I-I-"


    "Mr. Luciano, may I have a second of your time." An old, fat white man with a belly fattened with donuts and coffee suddenly asked from the side.


    The old man was stern but polite to Ricky, making it clear he just wanted to talk man to man. Ricky glanced at the younger cop before stepping toward him.


    At first, Ricky was greatly annoyed, but as the old policeman spoke, a wave of surprise washed over him.


    Within minutes, their conversation shifted, and soon they were laughing together before Ricky patted the officer''s shoulder.


    Bumpy, in the meantime, was trembling with anger, clutching his shoulder as he stared at Ricky like he''d been betrayed, watching in disbelief as Ricky suddenly became chummy with the same men who had just manhandled him.


    Bumpy had done nothing, just sitting in his car, before the cops suddenly showed up and started questioning him, their suspicion rooted in nothing more than the color of his skin.


    Although this wasn''t uncommon in Harlem, it was exactly why Bumpy hated leaving, situations like these weren''t rare outside its borders.


    "Alright, I''ll let them know." Ricky chuckled, making his way to the passenger-side door before turning his gaze to Bumpy.


    "Bumpy." Ricky''s smile lingered, but his eyes caught the simmering anger in his friend''s expression as he dipped his head slightly.


    "What," Bumpy muttered, his voice low, already knowing Ricky was about to let the cops walk away.


    "Punch that guy in the face, then let''s get outta here." Ricky tapped the roof of the car, opening the door and sliding in as both Bumpy and the officer flinched.


    "What?" Both Bumpy and the young officer asked, thinking this was some sort of joke until the old man slowly walked next to his partner in training.


    "Remember to clench your jaw-" The old man gave some advice, signaling toward the young man who gritted his teeth.


    "You can''t be serious Sergeant Dan, that negro-"


    Slap


    Suddenly, without warning, the old man slapped him across the face without even so much as hesitating.


    "Listen, rookie, the only reason you''re getting let off with a punch is ''cause I''m golf buddies with Old Tony. Now, clench your jaw." Dan scoffed, rubbing his white mustache as the young man hesitantly rubbed his cheek.


    Little Tony and Big Tony''s father, Old Tony, was a former high-ranking member of the Luciano family.


    Like many other senior members, he followed Lucky to Lucky Legacy Bank after Ricky took up the mantle as head of the family, allowing the younger generation to step into their former positions.


    That was why Ricky had gotten so chummy since Old Tony was one of Lucky''s closest and most trusted men.


    Ricky decided to let the rookie cop off the hook out of respect, but that didn''t mean he''d walk away completely unscathed.


    The only reason Ricky was letting Bumpy take the shot was simply because he thought it would be funny.


    "Hurry up and punch the guy Bumpy, we got sh*t to do!" Ricky urged him on, rolling down the window and snapping Bumpy out of his daze.


    Bumpy and the young officer turned to each other, the one who had antagonized the situation cowered slightly, realizing there would be no repercussions, while the victim smiled warmly as he cocked back his fist.


    BAM


    Without even a sliver of hesitation, Bumpy socked the officer across the face, sending him crashing to the ground like a sack of potatoes.


    "See you around Officer Dan." Ricky waved to the old man with a bright smile, watching the cop tip his hat to him as Bumpy got into the car before driving off.


    Ricky absentmindedly tapped the roof of the car, his mind drifting as he considered whether anyone else might have witnessed him using his eldritch powers.


    His fingers drummed lightly against the metal before he caught Bumpy side-eyeing him, his expression unreadable.


    "Thanks." Bumpy coughed, nodding toward Ricky as he had honestly thought those cops were going to get off without any repercussions.


    "Sh*t like that don''t fly with my people, it''s the standard," Ricky chuckled, gazing out the window.


    Bumpy nodded, understanding well enough as he was still under Ricky''s employ until this trip was over, after all.


    "So, where are we going first?" Ricky asked, watching Bumpy reach across and tap at one specific name.


    "The closest one I found was Azalea Harris, but funny enough, she was the hardest to track down." Bumpy shook his head, still baffled that she had been hiding in plain sight.


    "She in New Jersey or something?" Ricky asked only for Bumpy let out a heavy sigh.


    "No f*cking way she''s in-"


    "Yeah Slick, she''s in Harlem."


    Meanwhile in Harlem,


    20 minutes later,


    Blues filled the air, each note from the worn-out saxophone carrying the weight of the player''s soul. A tattered hat lay at his feet, collecting the kindness of passersby, while a boy, no older than four, twirled and stepped to the rhythm, lost in the music.


    It was as if this young boy could feel the rhythm, feel the vibrations in the soles of his shoes as his sturdy body flowed to the sound.


    "Nice moves kid." Appreciation sounded around the boy but he was so entrenched within the realm of blues, completely ignoring the man and continuing towards his next step.


    The man chuckled, his voice warm and familiar as it was Ricky, watching the kid bounce in place, a wide smile spreading across his face as the boy twirled to the melody, lost in his own little world.


    [Name: Bob Harris (Variant)


    Mother: Azalea Harris


    Grade: B+


    Template: Bob Makihara


    Template Outline: Bob Makihara template is a character from the manga and anime series Tenjou Tenge. He is a person who will grow up inherently thirsting for a fight and is better off with a father figure rather than growing up alone.


    Description: Bob is a variant who inherited your sturdy body and green eyes but takes after his mother in other regards. Azalea decided to raise Bob with love and care rather than give him to an orphanage, and she is currently struggling to provide him with a good life amidst various challenges. Despite the hardships, their bond grows stronger every day, as Bob''s vibrant spirit brings joy and purpose to Azalea''s life.


    Abilities:


    Rhythm: Bob''s rhythm plays a major role as his fighting skills develop. He starts to feel vibrations through the ground and can predict an opponent''s movement based on those vibrations. As he feels the "beat" in the ground, his body will react naturally and move him out of harm''s way and such.


    Skills:


    Inherent Build: Bob will grow up with an inherent build for fighting, able to easily grow into a muscular form with the proper nutrition.


    Inherent Technique: Allows Bob to understand and comprehend fighting techniques to the point where he could easily learn anything he puts his mind too in the realm of fighting.]


    Pulling out a twenty from his pocket, he set it in the hat of the old black man playing the blues as he tipped his fedora to him.


    Flicking his head to the side, Bumpy followed Ricky towards a rundown apartment building as they walked into it.


    "Honestly Slick, out of all the girls you had me find, this Alizee is the most impressive." Bumpy said, walking up the stairs as Ricky simply listened quietly.


    "Evidently, she has been operating a stream of runaway girls and uses them as prostitutes-"


    "So, she''s a pimp." Ricky interrupted, his conclusion making Bumpy want to retort before eventually rubbing the back of his neck.


    "Well yeah, but she''s now the owner of two apartment buildings that also run as make-shift brothels." Bumpy sighed, agreeing with Ricky who chuckled while walking up the stairs.


    Bumpy filled Ricky in on everything Alizee had been up to since their last encounter.


    Unlike most of the other girls, she hadn''t settled into the expected routine, no desperate scrambling for a man''s protection, no sinking into the background as just another forgotten face in Harlem''s ever-churning underworld.


    Instead, Alizee had taken a different route, one that set her apart from the other girls he was finding.


    After her cum-filled exchange with Ricky, something had clicked in her.


    Maybe it was anger, maybe it was ambition, but whatever it was, she''d sharpened it into something useful.


    She refused to be just another girl drifting through the city, waiting for fortune to either smile or spit on her.


    So, she carved out her own little piece of Harlem''s pie, turning herself into something that most men in her position took for granted, a pimp.


    Alizee had become, in all but name, a pimp.


    Not like in a loud, boisterous way that the street-walking hustlers operated, but in a way that carried quiet authority.


    She didn''t flaunt gold rings or strut down Lenox Avenue with a cane, her power was at her discretion.


    Alizee had many disadvantages but knew the world well enough to play the game by staying under the radar but still made her money.


    Her girls weren''t just anyone; she was selective, choosing them as carefully as a jeweler examined diamonds.


    They were well-kept, well-paid, and loyal to her in a way that most girls in the business weren''t to their handlers.


    And Alizee wasn''t just some madam managing from the sidelines, she had the same sharp tongue and quick wit that made her a handful when Ricky first met her.


    She knew how to handle herself, how to turn a profit, and most importantly, how to keep Harlem''s bigger players from sniffing around her business too closely.


    She was moderately successful but not untouchable, not rich, but she was standing on her own two feet, which was more than most could say and Ricky had to admit, he respected that.


    Knock


    Knock


    "Business hours are closed." From the other side of the door, a sharp tone sounded out, making it clear as Ricky opened the door.


    "Even for me?" Ricky peaked his head through, looking at Azliee who frowned while gazing at documents on her desk.


    "Unless you are-" Alizee hissed, turning her gaze upwards only to freeze in place as if her gaze landed on medusa.


    "Unless I''m your kid''s daddy?" Ricky joked, swinging the door open, watching Alizee''s mouth open, then close, then open again, as if she couldn''t decide whether to snap back or choke on her own surprise.


    "You-how-I-"


    "If you''re wondering how I found you, then it''s cause of old Bumpy here." Ricky gestured to his side, plopping down onto the chair across from her desk and immediately slouching.


    "I knew it." Alizee gritted her teeth, breaking the pencil in her hand while turning her head to the side.


    "I knew the reports of some man sniffing around only spelled trouble but-"


    "But I ain''t some amateur," Bumpy cut in, his tone firm as his gaze drifted to the side, landing on an overwhelming number of pictures of Bob plastered across the wall.


    "Wait a minute, do you know who-" Ricky suddenly realized, seeing more hatred than shock on her face.


    "You are? Of course I do." Azalea scoffed, crossing her arms and leaning back in her chair while staring daggers at him.


    "Ricky, a man who is in the waste management business, it didn''t take me too long to figure out who you really were." Azalea shook her head, her tone making it seem as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.


    "Then you know why I''m here, right?" Ricky asked, leaning his head on his hand as Azliee gripped her hands tightly, her eyes darting to the side and gazing out the window at her darling boy dancing.


    "You can''t take my baby boy." Azalea eyes showed the resolve of a desperate mother, reaching under her desk but Ricky waved his hand.


    "I''m not taking Bob, relax." Ricky sighed, his eyes picking up on Bumpy who walked around the table and suddenly grabbed her hand.


    "Let go," Azalea narrowed her eyes, her fingers tightening around something beneath the desk as Bumpy, unfazed, lifted his coat slightly.


    "You first," Bumpy said, his voice steady, drawing attention to the piece tucked at his waistband, a clear signal that he knew exactly what she was reaching for under the table.


    "Tsk, fine." Azalea clicked her tongue, releasing her grip and placing both hands on the table.


    "What do you want, Ricky Luciano, you can have the business but not my baby boy." Azalea said, directing that familiar snake-like charm towards Ricky who chuckled.


    "Does it look like I want this little crumb?" Ricky asked genuinely, watching Azalea''s body tremble, because that only meant one thing.


    "Then-"


    Sigh


    "Will you relax, I''m not here to take Bob or your business." Ricky eased, sighing heavily as Azille slowly calmed down before raising her eyebrow.


    "Then?"


    "Listen Azalea, I know you have your thoughts and opinions on me but I''m not about to uproot my kid from his mother, I''m not that big of a piece of sh*t." Ricky first started, gesturing both hands to himself to give Azalea a clear stance on the situation.


    "But he needs a father figure. He''ll be better off for it," Ricky said, his words instantly making Azalea uncomfortable, because she knew they were true.


    She had seen the difference in Bob, the way he loved listening to the sounds of the world, how he never quite fit in with the other kids.


    Her biggest fear was that he would isolate himself in his dance, forever losing himself to the rhythm inside him.


    Sigh


    Azalea sighed, covering her face. She wanted to see Ricky as the same arrogant jerk he had been before, but she couldn''t, not anymore.


    She had changed, too.


    She wasn''t that same girl from four years ago as time had hardened her, forced her to face the world and the responsibilities that came with it.


    And if she had changed, she could only assume Ricky had as well.


    "What do you want, Ricky?" Azalea dropped her hands, looking towards Ricky who slowly brought out Shadow Broker.


    "First off, I wanna see my son and I want to be in his life." Ricky placed his hands together, Shadow Broker clicking the locks of his briefcase and grabbing a sheet of paper.


    RIP


    "Second, I want my son to be in his siblings'' lives and vice-versa."


    RIP


    "Third, I want him every other weekend or I want you to move into a house close to me."


    RIP


    "And finally, I want his last name to be Luciano, not f*cking Harris."


    RIP


    Shadow Broker''s abilities adhered to Ricky''s demands, completely changing the dynamic that Azalea had first tried to set as her mind raced.


    ''Maybe that would be good for him to have Ricky''s protection.''


    "Maybe it would be good for him to socialize with kids he can relate to through his blood.''


    ''Maybe it would be better to move closer to Ricky so that I don''t have to give up my baby boy.''


    ''Maybe being a Luciano would be better than being a Harris.''


    SIGH


    Azalea crumbled into the palms of her hand, brooding for a long time before looking back up.


    "Fine, but I don''t have the money to move at the moment-"


    "I''ll handle it." Ricky smiled, standing up and holding out his hand as Azalea''s delicate one shook it firmly.


    "Man, time has been kind to you-"


    "The only relationship we will have, Ricky, is the one of co-parenting." Azalea pulled back her hand, sitting back down in her chair and crossing her hand, and her legs.


    "If you say so." Ricky shrugged, leaving the door open while Azalea immediately closed it.


    "I''m serious Ricky, I''m never going to sleep with you-"


    "Uh huh." Ricky sort of didn''t agree, walking towards the door as Azalea suddenly thought of something.


    "Are you going to visit Everlean and Mayola?" Azalea suddenly asked, staring daggers at his back as he turned back.


    "Maybe I am-"


    "Don''t Ricky, just leave them alone." Azalea immediately said, warning Ricky as he raised an eyebrow.


    "Oh yeah? And why is that?" Ricky asked, turning towards her as Azalea turned two photographs towards him.


    "Because they''re finally happy." Azalea, still in touch with the two, turned both photographs of the two girls each surrounded by people who cherished them.


    "Sure." Ricky simply left those words, backing out of the door as Azalea closed her eyes and shook her head.


    Walking out of the apartment building, Ricky and Bumpy both made their way back to the car while he turned towards Bob curiously looking at him.


    Ricky just laughed, waving at him as Bob tilted his head, hesitating for a moment before lifting his hand and waving back.


    He watched as the man slipped into the car, the engine rumbling to life before it rolled down the street and disappeared into the city.


    "Next is Ruth-"


    "I already know where Ruth is." Ricky crossed his arms, interrupting Bumpy who flinched at this sudden declaration.


    "I put Alexander and Chester on that a while ago."


    Flashback to a while ago


    The moonlight dripped through the window, casting a gentle glow over a sleeping Harry.


    The room was still, peaceful, until two small shadows crept over him, their forms stretching across his blanket like silent specters.


    Harry''s eyes blinked open, staring at the ceiling before a strange sensation crept over his chest.


    He glanced down, only to be met with the sight of Alexander''s furry little body, his tiny chest puffed out with pride.


    "Bear your secrets before the mighty Alexander the Great!" the gerbil declared with a hearty laugh as Harry went rigid, his breath hitching at the sight of a gerbil talking on his chest.


    Harry''s gaze shifted past Alexander to the figure hovering just behind him as a crow, it''s dark feathers gleaming under the moonlight.


    Its beady eyes locked onto his, an unsettling intelligence lurking within them as Harry''s pupils dilated as an eerie stillness settled over the room.


    "As Alexander mentioned, bear your secrets on Ruth, your daughter."


    End of Flashback


    "YES, IT WAS I, ALEXANDER THE GREAT, WHO UNCOVERED HER WHEREABOUTS FIRST!" Alexander popped out of Ricky''s suit pocket, hsi words making Bumpy utterly flinch at the talking gerbil.


    "WHAT THE SH*T-" Bumpy yelled, swerving onto the wrong side of the road before a truck immediately pushed down on its horn.


    BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP


    "OH SH*T!" Bumpy then jerked his head back onto the road, shivering back onto the right side while his entire body shook.


    "That-that-that-"


    "He''s Alexander and before you say something that would start a stupid introduction, he is a talking gerbil, not a mouse or rat, a gerbil." Ricky gestured towards Alexander, halting the increasingly long introduction from the gerbil.


    "Oh come on, you literally got your ass kicked by a ghoul but a talking gerbil is where you cross the line? Man up Bumpy, weird sh*t exists in the world." Ricky nudged Bumpy, chuckling as the man loosened at this provocation.


    "First of all, anyone would be weirded out by a talking animal, it''s not just me." Bumpy held up one finger, starting off while recovering his calm and collected attitude.


    "Second, has he just been here the whole time and third, did he just say he''s Alexander The Great, the guy who was the king of Macedonia?" Bumpy finished, asking the other questions as Alexander''s eyes sparkled at another person recognizing him.


    "You''ve heard of my legendary exploits as well?" Alexander asked, his chest puffing out with pride as if today were a grand celebration in his honor.


    "Yeah, well, Madame St. Claire is an enthusiast when it comes to regions and it sort of rubbed off on me, but I prefer history connected to those times rather than religion itself." Bumpy answered matter of factly, even hsi hobbies related to Stephanie.


    "Wait a minute, you found Ruth already, then-" Bumpy asked, only to see Ricky shake his head before looking at the ceiling


    "I just haven''t found the right time, since out of all of them, she''s probably the most-"


    SIGH


    "I guess-........troubling?" Ricky couldn''t'' exactly find the right word to describe Ruth, since the last time they spoke she had a complete and utter meltdown.


    "Anyways, let''s speed this up." Ricky waved his hand, drawing the Necronomicon from his body as it coiled and shimmered, conjuring a portal before the car.


    "WAIT, WAIT-" Bumpy said, slamming down on the brakes as they swerved into the green portal before appearing on the other side of a hill.


    Mud sprayed upward as the car screeched to a halt atop a hill, overlooking a secluded mansion nestled deep in Iowa.


    Ricky had planned for everything, yet as he stepped out of the car, uncertainty gnawed at him as he wasn''t sure how to approach the Ruth he once knew.


    His gaze drifted to the yard, where a young boy ran after a dog, laughter echoing through the crisp evening air.


    The vast estate stretched over a thousand acres, every inch of it serving one purpose, to keep Ruth confined in a luxurious prison.


    "Wait here-"


    "Oh for christ sake Slick, the mud ruins the wax!" Bumpy jumped out of his car, grabbing a towel and some spray before immediately cleaning the car.


    Ricky shook his head, stepping down the hill as the wind swept through the grass, rustling softly around him. His strides carried him toward a large tree, beneath which stood a wooden table.


    At the table sat a woman clad in a light blue dress, a wide-brimmed hat shielding her face in case any stray rays of sunlight broke through the leaves. A book rested gently in her hands, her fingers idly tracing the pages.


    The distant crunch of leaves stirred her from her reading and slowly, she lifted her gaze, only to lock eyes with someone she never thought she''d see again.


    "Ha~" Ruth let out a long drawn out laugh, closing her eyes with a smile and looking forward as she slowly closed her book.


    "Hello, Ricky." Ruth''s soft tone carried across the space between them, her voice gentle yet laced with something unreadable as her eyes fluttered open, finding Ricky already seated across from her, his smile stretching ear to ear.


    "Hi Ruth."

 Chapter 173 - 166: Reunion Tour Finale

    Chapter 173 - 166: Reunion Tour Finale


    "Hi, Ruth." Ricky said, his sleazy smile unchanged from the one she remembered all those years ago as he walked up and took a seat across from her at the table.


    "Shall we start off with some slight small talk or?" Ruth asked, resting her hat at the side as the breeze dangled her soft brown hair with the wind.


    "Let''s just skip to the juicy stuff," Ricky chuckled, surprised she hadn''t lunged across the table to demand he pay for all the misery he''d caused her.


    "Well, if I''m being honest, I knew that you would eventually come and find me, I simply didn''t think it would be so soon," Ruth admitted honestly, tucking a stray, dangling strand of hair behind her ear.


    "And if I''m being honest, I thought you would, you now, try to throw that book at me or something." Ricky laughed, ponting at the book that read ''The Maltese Falcon'' and thinking she would pick it up, then hurl it at his face.


    "And here I thought you''d bring a bottle of rum to celebrate our reunion." Ruth opened her eyes, soft, yet sharp, as if honed by her own struggles.


    "Hahahahahaha!" They both sort of laughed at these statements, Ricky''s more exaggerated while Ruth covered her mouth, laughing in a more refined, lady-like way.


    "This is just so f*cking weird," Ricky chuckled, covering his face since at first, he expected it to be some sort of act, but every word she uttered held no hint of a lie.


    "It is indeed, very weird." Ruth chucked as well, smiling as she looked down at her hands resting atop her book.


    "Then, Logan-"


    "Yeah, he''s mine," Ricky finally admitted, unveiling the very truth that had shattered and plagued her diamond-spoon life and yet, instead of hatred, Ruth felt only relief.


    "Are you mad?" Ricky asked, awkwardly chuckling as he rubbed the back of his neck, bracing himself to face the music but instead of tearing into him with hatred, Ruth simply shook her head.


    "I think back then, I would''ve screamed and shouted, hurling everything I could at you until you got on your hands and knees to apologize. But I''m-" Ruth''s soft tone wavered as she lifted her gaze, revealing just how tired, how weathered her eyes had become.


    "I''m grateful." Ruth''s words surprised not only Ricky but herself, as this truth had long been tucked away beneath the new life she had built.


    "I had everything as Ruth Steffield, truly everything I could''ve ever dreamed of." Ruth stated, her fingers tracing the cover of the book with a small smile.


    "But I think that''s why I became so hollow, so shallow, because depth only grows from the things we lack when growing up," Ruth said sincerely, sharing the wisdom shaped by her own experiences.


    "I had all the love, all the money, and all the reputation to make things go my way," Ruth said, chuckling at how naive and spoiled she was back then.


    "My father saw record-breaking profits, my grandfather was John D. Rockefeller, and they loved me more than anything," Ruth reminisced, her mind drifting back to the moment she first met Ricky, when she felt untouchable, like the world belonged to her.


    "I had everything, except something real. And I think reality has a way of catching up to all of us, no matter how much money you throw at it." Ruth met his gaze, no longer the sheltered girl he once knew.


    "That moment for me was when my family found out I was pregnant, and you managed to escape the label of being the father." Ruth chuckled at the irony, finding the whole situation almost amusing.


    "I went from being the shining star of my family to its darkest stain." Ruth continued, her words making Ricky more and more slouched with every syllable uttered.


    "They ripped everything from me, everything."


    "I was cast out, shamed, and detested, before they banished me here, forced to face the reality that I had nothing, and for once I finally had to look at myself. To see who Ruth truly was." Ruth smiled warmly, the breeze brushing against this heartfelt woman, not a spoiled girl, that stood before him.


    "That I was nothing," Ruth admitted, the weight of her words settling between them.


    She had come to understand that, when stripped of everything; her wealth, her status, the love and adoration she once took for granted, she was left with nothing.


    Because who she was had always been built on those material things, and without them, she felt as though she ceased to exist.


    "Oh come on Ruth, you-"


    "You do not have to flatter me, Ricky, I understand." Ruth said, interrupting Ricky and shaking her delicate head.


    "I had no redeeming qualities. Everything I was, everything I had, came from the names and riches attached to me. But take that away, leave just Ruth, and tell me, who was I?" Ruth genuinely gestured to Ricky, asking him outright who she was to him.


    Ricky opened his mouth, but all that came to mind was the spoiled girl who threw a fit whenever the world didn''t bend to her will.


    "I don''t know?" Ricky said, unable to really figure out who the Ruth he knew was without the title of granddaughter of the richest man in America.


    "Me neither." Ruth laughed heartily, honestly confiding in Ricky since she didn''t know what to do with herself, much less the child growing inside her stomach, when she arrived here.


    "At first I hated you, I cursed you before and after bed, meals, and anything I did." Ruth went through the steps, listing these things off as if it were trivial.


    "Then I started to hate the child growing inside me, hating how because of this child I had everything I had taken from me." Ruth continued to list off the steps, waving her hand as to speed up the entire thing.


    "But after he was born, and I held my precious Logan in my arms, I just-" Ruth said, holding her heart and looking at Logan off to the side, chasing his golden retriever.


    "I made something." Ruth revealed, smiling ear to ear with a warmth becoming of a mother, not the woman Ricky thought he knew.


    "For the first time in my life, I wasn''t handed anything and no one did it for me. I really made something, something so beautiful, all on my own and I just fell in love with that feeling." Ruth tapped her heart, looking back towards Ricky.


    "I think people only grow when they''re forced to. Sure, there are exceptions, some grow on their own, but I truly believe we only change when we''re put in environments that leave us no choice." Ruth revealed her belief to Ricky, narrating her own growth through this reasoning.


    Ruth''s growth had not been some sort of revelation or conscious decision but a necessity, a shift forced upon her by the circumstances she could neither control nor escape.


    In the world she once knew, change had been unnecessary.


    Every misstep was smoothed over, every mistake erased before it could leave a stain as her name carried weight, her wealth built walls so high that she never had to see beyond them and didn''t care to.


    She had been untouchable, coddled by a life that demanded nothing of her but to exist as she was.


    But when that life was stripped away, when the safety net vanished and she was left with nothing but herself, reality settled in.


    The world set it.


    The person she had been, the spoiled, entitled girl who had never known hardship, could not survive in this new world.


    Without the name, the money, the influence, she had been reduced to something hollow, a figure defined only by what she had lost.


    The walls of her gilded cage had become the boundaries of her exile, and within them, she had no choice but to confront what remained of her.


    There was no luxury in self-pity, no power in longing for what was gone as the world around her did not bend to her will anymore, and so she had to bend to it.


    Growth was not a path she had chosen; it was the only path left.


    It was not an awakening of will, not some noble pursuit of self-improvement, it was survival.


    Some people could change on their own, but most only did when forced, when their environment left them no choice.


    She had been one of those people, reshaped not by desire but by necessity and in the end, she had become something new, not because she wanted to, but because she had to.


    But she was better for it.


    "Growing up, I was stunted by the coddling, the riches, and my personality soured because of not only my surroundings, but I let it." Ruth slowly downcasted her eyes, bearing her entire heart to Ricky who just listened to it all.


    "Then, when my darling Logan was born, I struggled, his cries, the endless feedings, the exhaustion that settled deep in my bones. It wore me down, tested every part of me. But every time I soothed him in my arms, a quiet sense of achievement bloomed inside me. I had done that. I had fed him, bathed him, clothed him. For once, I wasn''t just existing for myself, I was contributing to something greater. I was looking after my son." Ruth smiled warmly, her loving expression immediately making Ricky hard for some reason as he looked down then back up.


    "Well, I''m kind of sorry for knocking you up and then dipping," Ricky finally apologized, but his words weren''t meant to be half-hearted, it''s just he didn''t want to downplay her growth, but Ruth understood his intentions and simply nodded.


    "And I''m sorry for trying to make you marry me, for wanting to turn you into a little doll I could parade around," Ruth confessed, smiling at that sense of closure washing over them before Ricky leaned onto the table, taking in her words.


    "So, what''s in store for the new and improved Ruth now?" Ricky asked, grinning from ear to ear, feeling as if he were talking to someone entirely new.


    "I''m thinking of maybe writing my own book, one that draws parallels from my own life." Ruth gently said, finding a second love through the words written on the page.


    At first, reading was merely a way to pass the time, an escape from the endless monotony of the secluded mansion.


    But as the days stretched into weeks, she found herself drawn deeper into the pages, no longer reading just to fill the silence but to experience something beyond her own reality.


    The way words painted vivid pictures, how each carefully crafted sentence formed entire worlds, fascinated her.


    Every stroke of the writer''s pen created a new canvas, endless in possibility, making her heart swell with the wonder of what could be.


    "What about you, what''s the next Chapter for Ricky Luciano?" Ruth asked, turning her curiosity towards RIcky who leaned back in his chair.


    "This guy, Merlyn, is f*cking with me so I have to go and kick his ass." Ricky shrugged, nonchalantly mentioning it to Ruth who chuckled.


    "How exciting."


    "If you think that''s exciting then-"


    For a while, they drifted through memories of years past, reminiscing about trivial things.


    The conversation flowed, carrying them through fragments of a life that now seemed distant, almost unreal.


    But beneath the idle chatter, there was this purpose lurking in the pauses between words.


    And finally, after letting the past linger in the air just long enough, Ricky exhaled and got to the point.


    "So Ruth, do you really want to spend the rest of your life here?" Ricky asked, spreading out his hands to the lush greenery around her.


    "I mean, I get it''s all nice, but is this all you want?" Ricky asked, watching Ruth slowly close her eyes then open them.


    "No, I''m unfortunately not that pure of heart," Ruth admitted, her voice carrying a weight that made Ricky lean in, curiosity flickering in his eyes.


    "Oh yeah?"


    "You might have seen it as nothing since I brushed it off, but when my family learned I was pregnant and I couldn''t name the father, they threw me to the wolves." Ruth''s voice was steady, but beneath it lurked something raw, something old and festering, waiting to be acknowledged.


    "They shamed me, ridiculed me, tore me down from my pedestal. Maybe if they had stopped there, I could''ve let it go. But they humiliated me." Ruth''s fingers traced the rim of her book, eyes unfocused, lost in the echoes of a past she had no choice but to endure.


    "They paraded me around at gatherings, not to support me, not to help me, but to make an example of me. They wanted everyone to see my disgrace, to watch me squirm under their scrutiny. I stood there, forced to face strangers, to endure laughter, whispers, mockery for something that was never mine to bear. The shame belonged to them, but I was the one who carried it." Ruth voiced everything, all the pain she had felt from that time and Ricky didn''t speak, he just listened.


    "And when my scandal was no longer useful, when my existence no longer served their purpose, they discarded me. They sent me here. A prison made of luxury, a cage wrapped in silk." Ruth''s voice dropped as she exhaled, her eyes finally finding Ricky''s, and in them there was no hesitation, no doubt.


    "I want them to feel what I felt, to know that same humiliation, that same pain." Ruth''s voice broke, downcasting her gaze once more before continuing.


    "And I would ask for you help if-"


    "Alright." Ricky shrugged, watching Ruth flinch as she turned her gaze upwards.


    "But you didn''t-"


    "You want revenge, and I think that''s a fair trade off after taking care of Logan for five years, the least I can do is this." Ricky nonchalantly said, thinking it wouldn''t be that hard to take on her father after he gets back from this whole Camelot thing.


    "And besides, I''m not against being used by a beautiful women like yourself." Ricky chuckled, raising his sleazy smile to sparkle against the faint ray of sunlight that shimmered into the leaves.


    Pfft


    "Hahahahahahahaha!" Ruth suddenly let out a beautiful hum of laughter, feeling this pressing against her chest loosen as she wiped her eyes that had become teary.


    "Oh, Ricky, I''m glad some things never change," Ruth said, a faint sense of relief settling over her.


    For all the ways she had transformed, there was something oddly comforting in knowing that not everything from her past had been erased.


    "Yeah, well, if you ever want to get out of bumf*ck Iowa then I''ll always find a place for you in New York." Ricky said, standing up as Ruth went to stand up as well before he shamelessly held open his arms.


    Ruth just laughed, stepping forward and wrapping her arms around Ricky as his hands trailed down her back, the warmth of his touch grounding her in the moment.


    As he inhaled, a faint scent of strawberries clung to her, subtle yet intoxicating.


    "Man, you smell good." Ricky chuckled, holding her a little tighter.


    Ruth closed her eyes, letting herself sink into the embrace, her head resting against his chest.


    His scent, something deep and familiar, wrapped around her like a forgotten memory, stirring emotions she had long buried.


    The steady rhythm of his heartbeat echoed in her ears, lulling her into a trance, its cadence almost like the ticking of a clock, each beat pulling her further into the past.


    "Mommy?"


    Suddenly, their spell was broken and what had felt like mere seconds had stretched into nearly fifteen minutes, unnoticed by either of them, until a small voice disrupted the moment.


    Logan stood a few steps away, his head tilted in curiosity, his young eyes flickering between the two of them as Ricky and Ruth instinctively pulled apart.


    "O-Oh, hey, my baby boy!" Ruth''s face flushed red as she laughed through her embarrassment, quickly walking up to Logan and scooping him into her arms.


    Logan wore a curious yet neutral expression, his gaze steady and brooding as he observed the man occupying his mother''s attention.


    "Who is this mommy?" Logan asked, pointing towards the man who was holding his mother just mere seconds ago.


    "This is the man I always tell you stories about, your father, Ricky Luciao." Ruth gestured, watching Logan slowly turn his head towards Ricky waving at him.


    "Hey kiddo-"


    "Can we have dinner now, I''m hungry." Logan turned his head back, tugging at Ruth''s dress as she chuckled slightly.


    "It is getting late, but if you want to come and-"


    "Mommy, I''m hungry~" Logan whined, interrupting her before she could extend an invitation towards Ricky.


    "Raincheck." Ricky winked at Ruth, his smile lingering as he watched her as she hesitated for a moment before slowly nodding, then turned around, adjusting Logan in her arms as she carried him back toward the house.


    It was then that Logan''s head, which had been resting on Ruth''s shoulder, slowly lifted.


    His gaze locked onto Ricky''s, unblinking, steady.


    For a child so young, there was an eerie lack of fear in his expression, only a quiet, almost instinctual protectiveness.


    He squinted, the slightest furrow forming between his brows, as if warning Ricky not to come any closer, not to take what was his.


    "Look at this little sh*tter." Ricky chuckled, lifting his chin slightly, meeting Logan''s gaze head-on, unwilling to yield.


    The challenge in Ricky''s eyes only made Logan''s expression waver as his tiny face scrunched, his confidence cracking just a little, but he didn''t look away.


    Instead, he clung tighter to his mother, his grip possessive, his brows knitting as if trying to hold his ground despite the unfamiliar feeling creeping in.


    ''See you soon.'' Ricky mouthed, his expression deliberately amused, provoking the little boy just enough to gauge a reaction.


    Logan''s response was immediate, a subtle, knowing squint, his small lips pressing into a thin line.


    There was no childish pout, no whine of disapproval, just a quiet defiance that made Ricky break into a laugh.


    ''We''ll see.''


    Despite his age and innocence, there was something sharp in the way he watched Ricky, an intelligence that hinted he understood more than he let on as he opened his system panel.


    [Name: Logon Roy


    Mother: Ruth Steffield


    Grade: B+


    Template: Logon Roy


    Template Description: Logan Roy


    Logan Roy is a central character in the television series Succession. He is the formidable and ruthless patriarch of the Roy family, which owns and controls one of the world''s largest media conglomerates, Waystar Royco. Logan is a self-made billionaire known for his cutthroat business tactics and relentless pursuit of power and control. He is cunning, manipulative, and unyielding in his ambitions, often pitting his own children against each other in a ruthless game of succession. Despite his commanding presence and formidable reputation, Logan''s personal life and vulnerabilities are also explored throughout the series, revealing a complex and morally ambiguous character.


    Description: Following the tumultuous situation with Ruth, she was sent away to a secluded mansion in Iowa to raise her son, Logan, effectively exiling her from the family. Her relatives, unaware of the father''s identity, were determined to keep the family''s reputation intact, refusing to allow a "bastard" to carry their name. As a result, Logan was given the surname Roy, a stark reminder of his mother''s estrangement.


    Innate Abilities:


    Business Acumen: Logan possesses an innate understanding of markets, media, and corporate strategy, allowing him to make shrewd business decisions and navigate complex financial landscapes.


    Charisma and Influence: He exudes a powerful charisma that enables him to sway others to his way of thinking and manipulate situations to his advantage.


    Strategic Thinking: Logan has a natural gift for strategic planning and long-term thinking, enabling him to anticipate competitors'' moves and position Waystar Royco for success.


    Negotiation Skills: His innate ability to negotiate and broker deals ensures that he secures favorable terms and advantageous partnerships for his company.


    Crisis Management: Logan thrives under pressure and has an instinctive ability to handle crises, making tough decisions swiftly and decisively to protect his interests.


    Innate Skills:


    Leadership: He possesses strong leadership skills, commanding respect and loyalty from his employees and family members alike.


    Media Manipulation: Logan is adept at manipulating media narratives and public perception to benefit Waystar Royco and shield it from negative publicity.


    Financial Analysis: He has a deep understanding of financial analysis and risk assessment, allowing him to evaluate investments and opportunities with precision.


    Political Savvy: Logan navigates the complex intersection of business and politics with finesse, leveraging relationships and political influence to advance his agenda.


    Adaptability: Despite his rigid demeanor, Logan is adaptable and can pivot his strategies in response to changing circumstances and market conditions.]


    Right before Ruth was about to enter the house, she waved back at Ricky before entering her luxurious cage.


    Turning back, Ricky strode leisurely toward Bumpy, who stood patiently by the car, a cigarette dangling between his fingers.


    The ember flared as he took a slow drag, exhaling a thin stream of smoke into the sky that was slowly closing in on the night as his gaze flicked to Ricky.


    "What''s up with you?" Bumpy asked, watching as Ricky approached, moving with a slow, contemplative stride before leaning against the car beside him.


    Wordlessly, Bumpy held out his pack of cigarettes as Ricky took one, holding it out as Bumpy lit it for him, then took a long drag, letting the smoke settle in his lungs before exhaling.


    "You ever known someone in your life, someone you would swear you knew inside and out, then years later, you see them again, and they''re just so f*cking different?" Ricky muttered, still processing his conversation with Ruth.


    "Like, so different that it just freaks you the f*ck out?" Ricky rubbed his forehead, shaking his head at the completely different person Ruth seemed.


    Some part of Ricky couldn''t shake the feeling that it was all some elaborate scheme but even then, talking to her again, it had been an experience, one that stuck with him in a way he hadn''t expected.


    And strangely enough, Bumpy seemed to understand that feeling all too well.


    "Don''t even get me started," Bumpy muttered, side-eyeing Ricky before taking another drag from his cigarette, literally looking at that exact person.


    Ricky exhaled, slicking his hair back and closing his eyes for a moment, lost in thought.


    "Alas, I am out of cachoo''s." Alexander popped his tiny head out of Ricky''s shirt pocket, looking as mournful as ever.


    Although Alexander valued and understood Ricky''s need for space, respecting his moments of solitude when he needed to confront himself, he couldn''t simply stand by and do nothing.


    He had a curious nature, after all, and needed to keep busy in his own way.


    So, as he waited for Ricky to work through whatever was on his mind, Alexander started bringing snacks, little treats like nuts and seeds, and hiding them in Ricky''s pockets.


    It wasn''t a grand gesture, but it was something to occupy himself.


    It also explained why Ricky''s maids and dry cleaner were constantly baffled by the remnants of these snacks stashed away in the pockets of his suits.


    And it was never just a little, sometimes, it added up to entire bags'' worth of trail mix with lingering traces of scattered sunflower seeds, tucked into places they''d never expect to find them.


    Sigh


    "I keep forgetting you eat acorns in my pockets," Ricky chuckled, flicking the ashes from his cigarette as Alexander scurried up onto his shoulders.


    "Acorns are disgusting, first off," Alexander scoffed, his voice laced with disdain.


    "And this is how I fill my time while you indulge in your warm, sweet moments. But even so, I''d rather starve than eat those vile things," Alexander clarified, shaking his fur as if the mere thought of their taste repulsed him.


    Ricky let out a low laugh, clearly amused by Alexander''s dramatic tone, as he shifted the cigarette between his fingers.


    "You ready?" Ricky asked, glancing back at Bumpy as he flicked the cigarette into the nearby mud.


    "Just waiting on you," Bumpy nodded, giving him a small shrug before making his way to the driver''s side. Ricky followed suit, flicking his own cigarette into the mud before getting in beside him.


    The familiar hum of the car engine rumbled to life, and for a moment, there was nothing but the quiet anticipation of what was next.


    "Next stop-oh, Chicago." Ricky said, seeing that familiar city and looking over at Bumpy gripping the wheel tightly.


    "C-Can we not-"


    "Bumpy."


    "It''s just that I don''t wanna scratch or dirty my car-"


    "Bumpy."


    "Slick come on-"


    "Bumpy." Ricky reiterated his name, placing his hand on his shoulder and the other hand extended in front of them, prompting a portal to swirl in front of the car.


    "Just drive."


    Bumpy heaved out a sigh, pressing the pedal down slowly as the car crawled forward and entrenching itself into the portal.


    On a quiet highway on the outskirts of Chicago, a family car rolled along, the hum of the engine and the soft swish of the tires against the road the only sounds.


    Inside, a young boy sat in the backseat, his eyes focused on the ice cream cone in his hand as he licked it absentmindedly, lost in the moment, until something made him stop mid-lick.


    His eyes widened in disbelief, his tongue freezing against the cold sweetness.


    A vibrant, swirling green portal had suddenly opened before them as his gaze shot through the windshield just as a car appeared out of nowhere, landing smoothly on the side of the road.


    The boy''s ice cream dropped from the cone, hitting the seat with a soft splat as he stared, mouth agape.


    The car, Bumpy''s car, drifted slowly out from the portal as Bumpy''s eyes scanned the road as he let out a long, tired sigh, thankful that they had made it out safely.


    "So, what''s the backstory?" Ricky asked, tapping the side window while Bumpy scrunched his brows, making a mental note of the smudges he''d have to wipe off later.


    "Everlean Carter and Mayola Davis both moved-"


    "Give me the short and sweet version, like you''re explaining it to a, I don''t know, a third grader." Ricky interrupted Bumpy, deciding to forgo the whole seven paragraph back and forth explanation, opting for the summarized summary.


    "You knocked them up, they both hitched a ride to stay with family here, both remarried, and both living in Chicago with their new families." Bumpy scoffed, though still gave Ricky that desired summarized version that he so wanted.


    "Or should I say, used to live here, if you''re about to step in and ruin it," Bumpy said, shifting his gaze forward while Ricky''s remained on him.


    "What?" Bumpy asked, seeing Ricky''s gaze still lingering on him as he asked as if he hadn''t said anything wrong.


    "Why''re you making me out to be some kind of tornado?" Ricky laughed, eyeing Bumpy, who only shrugged at the comparison.


    "Full offense, Slick, but you''ve got a habit of blowing into people''s lives, tearing things up, just so you can settle in all nice and comfortable," Bumpy joked, his tone carrying a hint of passive aggression since Ricky didn''t argue as he knew there was some truth to that.


    "And don''t even get me started on how you can''t keep it in your pants-"


    "Alright, alright, I''m an asshole, I get it," Ricky chuckled, rubbing his chin as he watched Bumpy steer off the highway and onto the streets.


    "But isn''t that better than being a deadbeat? Like, at least I''m f*cking trying." Ricky said, turning to Bumpy, who simply glanced left before steering in that exact direction.


    "More like trying to make it all about you," Bumpy whispered, though Ricky caught every syllable, his frown deepening.


    "Aye, if you got something to say, then instead of being a passive-aggressive Nancy, just tell me straight up like any other guy-"


    "You''re being f*cking selfish." Bumpy laughed, not holding back as he fired his honest opinion right at him.


    "How am I being selfish? I''m literally ponying up and taking some responsibility-"


    "That''s not the point, Slick." Bumpy slowed the car to a stop, turning to look at him.


    "Look, I''ll be real with you, some of these women you f*cked over need help, and those bastards need a father figure," Bumpy started, watching as Ricky nodded, leading him along through hsi logic that he personally came up with.


    "But here''s a little newsflash, not everyone was just waiting for you to come back, Slick. Some of these women moved on." Bumpy spoke plainly, his eyes locked onto Ricky, the same vain and selfish man he always knew as he assumed some things never changed.


    "They built new lives, found new love, and after I looked into it, your bastards already have real father figures who give them all their time," Bumpy said, pointing at Ricky, fully aware that his time was spread thin as it was.


    "In my opinion, I think you''re just jealous that people can move on without you," Bumpy said, turning forward, fully expecting Ricky to swing on him, but he didn''t.


    Ricky was an asshole, always had been and probably always would be since if Bumpy had just come up to him and spouted all this out of nowhere, he would''ve caught a punch for it.


    But Ricky had asked for his opinion.


    Unlike before, unlike the way Bumpy remembered him, always shrugging off advice or anyone''s take on a situation, Ricky just stared ahead.


    The reason for his complete and utter silence?


    As much as he wanted to argue that kids needed their real biological fathers, the truth was, he never knew his.


    Not in this life, at least, he had no idea who the man was that knocked up his mother before she gave him away for adoption.


    The entirety of Ricky''s silence lay with one man, Lucky, the man who had been more of a father to him than anyone ever had been, in both lives.


    And it was because of that, because of him, that Ricky couldn''t find the words to fire back at Bumpy like he usually did.


    "Go f*ck yourself."


    So, unable to find the right words, Ricky just cussed Bumpy out, shoving the frustration aside.


    Without another glance, he stepped out of the car and made his way to the modest one-story house on the outskirts of Chicago, slamming the door behind him.


    As he reached the sidewalk, a familiar face came into view, Everlean Carter.


    The woman who had completely gobbled up his cum, stirring it both within her mouth and loins, which brewed the features that made her into a complete MILF before him now.


    Maturity settled on her features, refining her in a way that softened yet deepened her allure.


    There was a slight droop to her frame, the kind that made you want to cradle her, to trace your fingers along the seams of her body, feeling the history written into her skin.


    "Nice~" Ricky nodded, watching with a sleazy smile before it sort of morphed into a warm one as a light skinned kid suddenly ran into her arms.


    [Name: Richie Carter


    Mother: Everlean Carter


    Grade: C


    Template: N/A


    Description: After discovering she was pregnant, Everlean made the difficult decision to move back to Atlanta to be closer to her family. Initially, the transition was challenging, filled with uncertainty and a mix of emotions. However, she gradually carved out a joyful life for herself and her son, Richie. Surrounded by the support of her loved ones, Everlean embraced motherhood and focused on creating a nurturing environment for Richie, balancing her aspirations with the warmth and love of family life.


    Abilities: N/A


    Skills: N/A]


    His sleazy smile softened into something warmer as his gaze settled on his strong kid¡ªthe boy standing there with a quiet confidence.


    Ricky''s eyes caught the green sparkle in his son''s own, a shimmer he knew all too well as it was his, his blood, his mark, staring right back at him.


    However, just before he could completely wreak havoc on the loving home she had built for herself, before he could turn everything she knew upside down, a man, worn from a long day''s work, took notice of him.


    "Excuse me, sir, can I help you?" the man asked, offering a slight bow after noticing Ricky''s expensive suit before turning to face him.


    "Only if you live there?" Ricky pointed, his words laced with something unreadable as the man chuckled, nodding his head vividly.


    "I do, sir. Name''s Charles Carter, pleasure to meet you." Charles stretched out his hand, and Ricky eyed him with a raised brow before finally clasping it in a firm shake.


    "Ricky," Ricky stated plainly, sizing up the man who had evidently been raising his son for the past four years but instead of revealing himself outright, he decided to pry a little first.


    "So, is that your family there?" Ricky asked with a smile, keeping his tone light.


    Charles, still nodding, turned with him toward the window and inside, Everlean knelt on the floor, laughing as she played with Richie and his toys.


    "That''s my darling wife and my loving son," Charles said with a proud expression, his eyes sparkling with warmth.


    Ricky''s smile twitched as Charles'' outline almost overlapped with one of Lucky''s rare smiles, just for a second.


    In his mind, he could almost feel Lucky''s presence, like a shadow tracing his figure, a silent reminder of what it truly meant to be a father.


    "How long have you been married?" Ricky asked, his tone teetering on the edge of something sharper, almost grilling.


    From the car, Bumpy widened his eyes, gripping the wheel as he stayed silent, watching with a deeply disappointed stare as he was certain Ricky was about to tear the man apart, physically and emotionally.


    "3 years-"


    "Only three? That boy looks to be four or five." Ricky interrupted, his words laced with quiet provocation, fishing for a reaction he expected to get.


    But Charles only chuckled, nodding his head along as if there were no lies in what Ricky, this stranger outside his house, had said.


    "He''s not my son by blood, but he''s-.....it''s hard to explain." Charles laughed, shaking his head before looking at Ricky.


    "But he''s my son."


    Ricky went to say something, something that would''ve escalated the situation, but slowly stopped as his mouth opened, then closed, the words dying on his tongue.


    For the first time in a long while, he found himself at a loss, standing face-to-face with a truth he wasn''t sure how to challenge.


    "I know what you''re thinking. I get the stares and all, but golly, when I first saw Everlean walk into my church, I fell in love." Charles closed his eyes, still remembering that scene and how his heart seemingly stood still.


    "At first, I barely noticed my boy, Richie is his name, at all. And though it seemed selfish, I was really only interested in his mother," Charles admitted, almost ashamed to confess it. But he was a righteous man, one who understood when he was wrong.


    "But we''re just two peas in a pod, Everlean and I. Though, I forgot to really understand that some pods have three peas." Charles admitted, a gentle smile tugging at his lips.


    "Richie didn''t take to me at first, just like I didn''t take to him. But the more time I spent with the boy, the more he stopped being just a boy to me, he became my son." Charles said, his voice steady, filled with quiet conviction.


    "The stares were consuming at first, but as the years went by, I stopped noticing them. Because Everlean is my wife, and Richie there is my son." Charles continued, glancing toward the window where his family laughed together.


    "There doesn''t need to be more said to express how much they mean to me, because I''d die for them, just like any father and husband would." Charles finished, looking Ricky straight in the eye, unwavering in his devotion.


    "Oh, I''m a priest, by the way. Not some creep who just lurks in churches and all," Charles joked, rubbing his pencil-thin mustache.


    Ricky let out a laugh, though something about it felt genuine rather than forced, looking at this man who really reminded him a lot like Lucky.


    "But if there''s something I can do to help you out, Ricky, just ask?" Charles got to the point, unsure why this stranger was at his house but deciding to feel him out.


    After seeing that Ricky didn''t look all that threatening, he extended an olive branch, his expression open and sincere.


    "Well, I''m-"


    Just as Ricky was about to utterly destroy this man''s life, a faint memory surfaced in his mind as the figure of Trevor emerged within his psyche, an unwelcome ghost from the past.


    The image was hazy at first, but the weight of it pressed against his chest, stopping him in his tracks.


    BURP


    "What''s your problem? Still sore about the whole pilot thing?" Ricky slurred, swaying drunkenly as he leaned against the porch railing, his bloodshot eyes fixed on Trevor.


    "Honey, the kids are-"


    "Take them out the back, now." Trevor cut in, his voice firm but calm as he didn''t turn to face her, but the tension in his shoulders made it clear.


    She hesitated for only a second before her gaze landed on Ricky, disheveled, reeking of booze, barely standing upright.


    Without another word, she guided the children back inside, disappearing down the hall.


    "Are those the little rugrats of yours, bring em out here so they can meet their good old grandpa-"


    "Get off my porch, Ricky." Trevor demanded, pointing behind him but Ricky sort of made himself comfortable instead.


    "You didn''t answer my question," Ricky slurred, a lazy grin tugging at his lips.


    "You still pissed about the whole pilot thing?" Ricky asked again, laughing at Trevor who grabbed his face, sliding it down before his eyes became dangerous.


    "Maybe my anger has something to do with you suddenly showing up, passing out on my porch, and looking like some sort of bum In front of my family." Trevor''s jaw tightened as he stepped forward, his voice low and firm.


    "I-"


    "Ugh, can''t you just f*cking understand that I was helping you? I was trying to push you toward your dream-"


    "THAT''S NOT WHAT YOU DID!" Trevor roared, his voice so sharp it sent birds scattering.


    "You-"


    SIGH


    "You do what you always do, Ricky. You make it about yourself." Trevor laughed, waving his hand in the air as if swiping away all the anger he previously had, replacing it with disdain.


    "That''s your problem, you can''t handle the fact that people move on, that they recover from the disease that is you." Trevor scoffed, crossing his arms and turning his accusatory gaze down.


    "You say you were being a good dad, how you were helping me, but not once. Once. Did you ever give me even a sliver of your time." Trevor said, holding up a single finger to Ricky and waving it around for him to see.


    "Not once did you see the hours, the sweat, the blood and tears I poured into becoming a pilot." Trevor revealed the real reason he was upset, why it was he could never look at Ricky the same after that day.


    "You just showed up, swooped in, and did what you thought was best." Trevor said, drawing this line in between them that separated him from what being a good dad was all about.


    "Being a father isn''t about shortcuts, Ricky. It''s about giving your kid a life where they can grow and all you ever do is rip things apart, then put a bow on top of it as if that makes it better." Trevor explained, sighing that he had to actually spell it out for this trainwreck who would properly forget it tomorrow.


    "You didn''t care about me, you did it for yourself, to make yourself feel good." Trevor said, turning away from Ricky.


    "But you also missed another important fact, that being a father isn''t about being the good guy, it isn''t about making yourself feel good, it''s about selflessly putting your kids first and that''s something you just can''t do." Trevor shrugged, coming to terms with the person Ricky was and walking back into the house to call the police.


    "So go to your back alley dumpster or your home, just not here. Just leave like you always do Ricky-"


    "Ricky, you okay?" Charles gave him a gentle shake, his concern evident as Ricky seemed lost in a trance.


    "Uh, yeah," Ricky muttered, snapping back to reality as he forced a chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck.


    "Just had a y''know, one of those coming-of-age moments." Ricky said, thinking how convenient that entire memory was for this exact moment.


    "I asked what I could do to help you and you sort of froze, are you okay-"


    "I just-" Ricky started, but when he glanced over at the window, seeing Richie''s bright, carefree smile, he faltered and then turned his gaze down at his dress shoes.


    "I was looking for my father. Got word he lived here," Ricky lied, his words landing like a gut punch, catching Charles completely off guard.


    "O-Oh." Charles hesitated, his expression shifting as if he could feel the weight of Ricky''s supposed grief.


    "I''m sorry, Ricky, but before me, my parents lived here too and I don''t think we''re brothers." Charles let out a small chuckle, trying to lighten the moment which seemed to work as Ricky let out a short laugh of his own, ducking his head, the tension easing just a little.


    "I guess so." Ricky chuckled, looking up at the sky as for once in his life, he wasn''t being completely selfish.


    Although he was greedy, lustful, and everything in between, he didn''t want to be that way for his kids, he wanted to be a hypocrite for them this time around.


    Ricky had screwed up his children in past lives, and deep down, this felt like his way of making amends for all the damage he''d left behind.


    That''s why he wanted to be there for them this time, to be what a real father was.


    But when he looked at Charles, he realized Richie already had one, he had his Lucky.


    There''s nothing wrong with wanting to be in your child''s life.


    That bond, that blood connection, ties you together in a way nothing else can.


    But sometimes, being a father is more complicated than that, it''s not just about claiming your child.


    It''s about sacrifice, it''s about knowing when to step in and when to step back.


    A father isn''t just the man who shares his blood, it''s the man who''s there in the quiet moments, the one who slaps dirt on scraped knees and stands in the crowd at school recitals.


    It''s the man who carries the weight of responsibility without expecting gratitude.


    At that moment, Ricky realized that he always expected his kids'' gratitude, as if they owed him for being alive.


    Ricky had spent his life taking and or grabbing at things like power, pleasure, control, but never really once stopped to consider what he''d left behind in his wake.


    He had this nagging feeling that the ones he hurt needed him to help pick up the pieces, but in reality, they were more than capable of putting themselves back together.


    That realization resounded in his mind when standing here, looking at Charles, he saw something he never thought he would, envy.


    Charles wasn''t the biological father, but he was the one who had stayed, he was the one who had chosen Richie, day after day, without hesitation.


    Just like Lucky had for him.


    And that was the thing about being a father, it wasn''t about just being present when it suited you, when it was convenient.


    It was about showing up, no matter what, even when it hurt, even when it meant swallowing your pride and stepping aside for the sake of your child''s happiness.


    Ricky could try to force his way in, demand his place, throw his weight around, but what would that do except tear apart the home Richie already had?


    Wouldn''t that just make him the same selfish bastard of a father he''d always been before?


    I think it was at that moment that Ricky had this sort of revelation that maybe being a father wasn''t about proving something all the time, maybe it was about knowing when to let go.


    "Would you like to come in and have dinner-" Charles offered, feeling guilty for the poor guy who was left out in the cold but Ricky only chuckled.


    "Nah, I''m good." Ricky chuckled, until it sort of turned into this laugh as he slowly turned away.


    "Good luck, Charles." Ricky nodded to the man, smiling as Charles was at a loss but slowly nodded with a smile of his own.


    "You too, Ricky." Charles waved, sending him off while walking towards his house that held his loving family.


    Slicking his hair back, Ricky let out a laugh, realizing how ridiculous it all was, the savior complex he''d built in his mind, convincing himself that all the women in his life needed him, only for it to come crashing down in one swift moment of clarity.


    "What are you doing?" Bumpy asked, stepping out of the car as he watched Ricky slowly walk away from the house.


    The question wasn''t meant to help Ricky, it was a test, a way for Bumpy to prove to himself that Ricky was still the same arrogant, selfish bastard who had to make everything about himself.


    But instead of failing the test with sh*tty, flying colors, Ricky was just walking away from it.


    "I''m walking back to the f*cking car, what does it look like I''m doing?" Ricky scoffed, shooting Bumpy a glare.


    "Slick, the kid''s right there, go on, tell him who his dad is!" Bumpy''s voice had an edge, almost like a dare, daring Ricky to prove he was still the same selfish bastard who couldn''t help but make everything about himself.


    Ricky turned, his eyes landing on the scene inside as Charles had just stepped into the house, greeted instantly by Everlean and Richie.


    The boy ran to him without hesitation, clinging to his leg as Everlean smiled, wrapping her arms around Charles like he was the center of their world.


    Then, for a brief second, Charles looked up and through the window, his eyes met Ricky''s.


    There was no hostility, no fear, just understanding, a subtle gesture that all men gave to one another as he nodded his head.


    Ricky stopped at the car door, laughing before nodding back to him as he opened the car door without any regrets.


    "The kid''s already got a dad." Ricky smiled, sliding into the passenger seat while looking on ahead.


    Bumpy stood there, at a complete loss for words as his mouth opened, then closed, his usual sharp tongue failing him as he watched Ricky settle into the passenger seat like it was just another day.


    With a breathless shake of his head, Bumpy finally climbed into the driver''s seat as he stared at Ricky for a moment, searching his face for any sign of regret, hesitation, or something.


    But Ricky just leaned back, exhaling like the weight of something heavy had finally been lifted.


    "I think you have made the correct judgment, Ricky," Alexander said, poking his head out from Ricky''s shirt pocket, his expression laced with approval.


    "It takes a strong man to carry the weight of the world, but an even stronger one to know when to let it go." Alexander said, his words forming into a life lesson.


    Some might see it as weakness, might talk down to Ricky for walking away, but in Alexander''s eyes, this was something else, this was growth, and this was moving forward.


    Wordlessly, throughout the next couple of houses, Ricky encountered that same familiar scene, over and over again, like some cruel yet oddly comforting joke the universe was playing on him.


    He lingered just long enough to see what he needed to see, to see if they were all alright and that his bastards had something whole, something stable, something that didn''t need him to swoop in.


    At Mayola''s home, his young, light-skinned daughter, Serena, had already nestled into the life of another man, one built like a pillar of strength.


    The guy had three kids of his own, yet he still had room in his arms for one more.


    Ricky watched as she clung to the man''s side, her tiny hands gripping onto his shirt with the kind of trust she had never been able to offer him.


    The man ruffled her hair absentmindedly while listening to Mayola complain, wiping the ends of Serna''s mouth that had a hint of ketchup before turning his gaze back to his wife, a simple but telling gesture of love that was second nature to him.


    So, just like before, he turned and walked back to the car, his silence heavier than any words he could have spoken.


    [Name: Serena Davis


    Mother: Mayola Davis


    Grade: C+


    Template: N/A


    Description: Mayola has no idea that you''re the father of her daughter, Serena. Just three weeks after your encounter, she met another man and, believing him to be the child''s father, quickly settled into a new relationship. Unbeknownst to her, the truth about Serena''s parentage remains hidden in the shadows of their lives.


    Abilities:N/A


    Skills: N/A]


    Then, Ricky was off to the next household, to see his other daughter, Jeanette, the baby girl of the woman he''d knocked up in a bathroom stall and who had later put her up for adoption.


    But unlike the others, she hadn''t just found a place to belong; she had been placed into a world far beyond anything the others had.


    Her adoptive parents were affluent, the kind of people who had everything except the one thing they wanted most, a child.


    And so, they had taken in Jeanette and given her a life draped in privilege and security.


    Their home was pristine, the kind of place where even the wind seemed to move with quiet sophistication.


    A lush wreath hung on the grand double doors, a picture-perfect welcome to a picture-perfect life.


    Ricky stood at a distance, watching as Jeanette twirled in the yard, her parents looked on with adoration, the mother crouching to fix a stray curl while the father lifted her effortlessly into his arms, spinning her around until her laughter rang through the air.


    Ricky, being ever so narcissistic, had always thought he was the missing piece in his bastard''s lives, that his absence had left some unbearable void.


    But standing there, watching Jeanette and the rest of them being loved in a way he never could have provided, he realized the truth.


    They weren''t missing anything at all.


    And so, like before, Ricky turned away, walking back to the car without a word.


    [Name: Jennett Lou]


    Mother: Mary Lou


    Grade:


    Template: N/A


    Description: The events that transpired in the bathroom stall nine months prior left Mary Lou with a baby girl, whom she named Jennett. Overwhelmed by the burden of motherhood and the challenges that lay ahead, Mary Lou made the heart-wrenching decision to give Jennett up for adoption. She placed her daughter in an orphanage, believing it was the best option for both of them. Fortunately, Jennett was quickly adopted by a loving couple who had always dreamed of having children but never had the chance to start a family of their own. They welcomed her with open arms, showering her with affection and creating a nurturing environment where she could thrive.


    Abilities: N/A


    Skills: N/A]


    The connections were there, undeniable, woven into the very fabric of his being as he felt it in his chest, that tether to his kids, that quiet pull of blood and lineage.


    But after seeing their smiles, after watching them thrive in homes filled with warmth and love, he understood something he hadn''t before in his past life.


    They just didn''t need him.


    Not in the way he had convinced himself they did, not in the way that would justify barging into their lives and disrupting the stability they had found without him.


    Sure, Ricky wouldn''t give a single f*ck if it was some random person he was taking something from, but these were his kids, his bastards, his blood.


    So, he kept walking and with every step, he let go a little more.


    Eventually, he arrived at a telephone booth, the glass fogged from the evening chill as he sighed, pressing his forehead against the cool surface for a moment before straightening up.


    Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out a crumpled slip of paper, the number Bumpy had given him.


    The line clicked, followed by a brief moment of static before a crisp, professional voice filtered through.


    "Hello, how may I direct your call?" The operator''s tone was polite, efficient, just another routine inquiry in their long shift of connecting voices across the city.


    "Yeah could you put me through to-"


    Ricky had to jump through hurdle after hurdle to get his call connected all the way to California.


    Since he hadn''t been there yet, it was faster to just call rather than fly on Chastiefol, especially with the sun already beginning to set.


    He tapped his fingers against the metal frame of the telephone booth, listening to the clicks and distant echoes as the operator patched him through.


    "Hello, who is this?" A woman, familiar in tone, asked, having received an unknown caller from her private line that Bumpy somehow got.


    "Man Katharine, you sound as sexy as ever." Ricky chuckled through the phone, leaning back and leaning on the telephone booth as the other end went dead silent.


    "Did you?" Katharine asked, leaving the question up in the air and yet, Ricky understood it perfectly.


    "Yeah, I know." Ricky confirmed all Katharine doubts, looking up at the ceiling for her to find the words to respond.


    "Oh." Katharine could only respond with this one word, reeling in from the shock of getting a random call from her child''s estranged father.


    "Are you going to-"


    "If you''re about to ask me if I''m gonna take Johnny away, the answer is no." Ricky crossed his arms, hearing the visible relief on the other end of the line.


    In this time period, if he wanted to claim his son, the courts would almost certainly rule in his favor.


    A father''s rights, especially a biological one, carried more weight than that of a mother, especially an unmarried one, could do little to fight against it.


    "I just called cause, you know, I want to know about him." Ricky sighed, really stumped at finding the right touchy feely words to get across to Katharine.


    "I get with the whole mobster thing you might be against it, but I-"


    "Ricky, honey, I think he''d like that, so you don''t have to explain." Katharine chuckled, cutting Ricky off before he could ramble any further.


    "Oh, good, ''cause I had no idea what the hell to really say. I''m just winging it right now." Ricky exhaled, relieved since he really didn''t want to have the whole back and forth.


    "When you''re ready, I''d like for you to come meet him," Katharine said, her tone steady and understanding as she knew Ricky was still young, and knew how confusing and overwhelming this all must be for him.


    "Ha, thanks~" Ricky laughed, hearing her soft chuckle on the other end.


    They kept talking for a while, their conversation flowing naturally, neither in a rush to end it.


    Eventually, Ricky assured her that once things settled down, he''d come visit and with that, he hung up the phone, exhaling as he leaned against the booth, letting the weight of the moment settle in.


    Bumpy had been silent the entire time, not saying a word as he chauffeured Ricky from one stop to the next.


    Ever since watching Ricky walk away from Richie, he hadn''t so much as muttered a comment or cracked a joke.


    He just drove, occasionally glancing at Ricky through the rearview mirror, as if trying to figure out what was going through his head.


    There was only one more stop, the one that led back to the woman who had started everything.


    This was the first woman Bumpy had tracked down, not hidden away under some rock but in plain sight.


    She worked as a nurse at a private elementary school, the same one Danielle attended for preschool and would continue through until middle school.


    Tonight, she had stayed late, filling out supply request forms, a tedious but necessary part of her job.


    After finally finishing the unpaid overtime, she let out a sigh of relief, packed up her things, and stepped outside but the moment she did, she froze.


    Her bag slipped from her grasp, her expression locked in disbelief as standing in the middle of the walkway, waiting for her, was none other than Ricky.


    "Hey Dolly, mind if we chat?"


    5 minutes later,


    Seated on a nearby public bench, both of them smoked in silence as Dolly, taking slow drags to regain her composure, sat next to Ricky who simply waited, his gaze steady, unreadable.


    "I-I''m not planning anything or trying to kidnap her, I just-" Dolly stammered, hastily adjusting her now-black hair, the dye job a clear attempt at reinvention.


    Sniff


    "I just wanted to see her grow up." Dolly sniffled, her eyes watering thinking that Ricky was here to take her away.


    "I see her here, you know, that new woman." Dolly hiccuped, rubbing her eyes as she let the words pour out like tears, referring to Raven.


    Sniff


    Hic


    "How she calls her mommy~" Dolly whined, finally breaking down as the weight of it all crashed over her, at the realization that Raven had stepped into the role of Danielle''s mother, her role that she was too much of a coward to fill.


    Ricky sat in silence, letting her cry, the glow of their cigarettes the only light between them as he didn''t offer empty words or meaningless comfort, just his presence, steady and unmoving, as Dolly let it all out.


    "A-Are you here to take me away?" Dolly sniffled, her masquerade bleeding down her cheeks and looking at Ricky who took another drag of his cigarette.


    "No, I''m here to ask why the f*ck you aren''t in my baby girl''s life," Ricky finally said, his voice edged with both frustration and confusion as he stared at Dolly.


    Out of everyone, she was the last person he expected to walk away as it took a different kind of strength to cut yourself off completely, and to him, Dolly had always seemed too soft for that.


    Dolly turned away, rubbing her cheeks as she cast her gaze downward, the weight of everything pressing heavy on her mind.


    "When you left New York, Dewey came to see me."


    Flashback


    Knock


    Knock


    Knock


    Three knocks echoed against the white door before it creaked open, revealing Dolly, not heavily pregnant anymore, as she had already given Danielle to Lucky by this point.


    "H-Hello?" Dolly asked, gripping the door at the sight of the unexpected visitor, her eyes scanning his face but finding no recognition.


    "Are you Dolly?" Dewey asked, glancing down at his notepad to confirm the address while she hesitantly nodded.


    "Yes, how can I help you?" Dolly asked, instinctively putting her guard up, her posture stiffening as Dewey let out a nervous chuckle, raising his hands in a placating gesture.


    "Oh no, I''m a friend of Albert''s," Dewey reassured her, reaching into his suit pocket as he pulled out a photograph and held it up for her to see.


    Dolly''s gaze lowered to the picture, a snapshot of Albert and Dewey at the latter''s law school graduation as Albert stood beside him, smiling, having come to support his friend on his big day.


    Gasp


    "O-Oh my apologies, I didn''t know-"


    "No, it''s quite alright, you don''t have to apologize." Dewey waved his hand, dispelling any of her guilt while reaching towards his side.


    "I just came here because of a message Albert wanted me to give you." Dewey said, lifting his briefcase, a case that held everything he had built against the Luciano family.


    Though he had lost and was now set to return to Washington D.C., he couldn''t resist the urge to rub salt in the wound, especially after discovering the connection between Dolly and Ricky.


    "I see, then, please come in."


    FLASHBACK END


    "He told me everything, about you, about Albert, and about my Sammy." Dolly''s voice carried the weight of bitter revelation as she turned her gaze toward Ricky, her expression twisted with betrayal.


    "Did you kill them? Did you kill them and just use me to get back at them?" Dolly asked, her eyes welling with tears, because that''s exactly how it felt after Dewey had laid it all out for her.


    Sammy''s death wasn''t just a tragedy like the hospital report claimed, he had been shot and Albert hadn''t taken his own life, Ricky had killed him.


    And after knowing all of that, after everything, thinking Ricky had just used her, lied to her, and slept with her, all while she carried the sorrow of thinking she was the one using him.


    The entire time, he had known, he had known perfectly well that he was the one who had ruined her life and yet, she was the one who carried this guilt for sleeping with him, thinking she was the one to blame for her misery.


    Sniff


    "Did you think that playing with my heart, my emotions, and my body was fun?" Dolly cried, her voice trembling as she looked at Ricky who remained silent, unmoving, as she poured out her pain.


    Ricky was at a loss since hadn''t expected Dewey to actually track down Dolly and tell her everything as that wasn''t what the system had indicated.


    But the system only provided a generalization when the children were born and what abilities they had as it didn''t update or follow their lives in real time.


    At least, not yet.


    "I gave away my baby girl out of guilt for wronging you, but this whole time, I was the one who was wronged, Ricky. I was the one being used~" Dolly sniffled, trying to force out the words between hiccupped sobs.


    "A-And I wanted her back, I went to get her back, but I-...I couldn''t~" Dolly''s face collapsed into her hands, her sobs muffled against her palms.


    The memory crashed over her, drowning her in regret after seeing the scene when she resolved to take back Danielle.


    It was at his mansion that Lucky, the man she had given her daughter to, was holding Danielle with such careful devotion, showering her with all the privileges Dolly never could.


    Lucky didn''t just tuck Danielle away in some room and call it a day but instead he surrounded her with round-the-clock care, remodeled his entire house to baby-proof every inch of it, and made sure she never lacked a single thing.


    And right now, while Dolly stood at the side drowning in her regrets, Lucky was throwing Danielle a grand first birthday party, right in the midst of the very men who ran the streets, the mobsters who, for all their sins of killing her Sammy and Albert, were now her family.


    It broke her, it just shattered every justification she had clung to.


    She had convinced herself that her baby could never be happy in the arms of murderers, of killers, that she was the hero, the one rescuing Danielle from a life of blood and crime.


    She told herself she was wronged, that they had tricked her into giving her baby away and that coming back was the right thing to do.


    But seeing Danielle in Lucky''s arms, safe, loved, and thriving, it shattered every lie she had clung to.


    It didn''t make her feel righteous, it didn''t make her feel like a savior, it only made her realize how much she had lost, and how much she could never give.


    Ricky just listened, silent and unmoving because weirdly enough, after today, he understood.


    He didn''t come back the same way Dolly did, but he let go all the same.


    Although they were different, the gut-wrenching feeling of knowing you had to walk away from something you loved, was the exact same.


    That kind of hurt didn''t just fade, it settled into your bones until it became a part of you and made you realize what it truly meant to care for her child.


    Even when Dolly felt helpless, even when she resolved to let Danielle be raised by the Luciano family, she still wanted to see her.


    It''s why she changed her name and disguised herself as they were only small glimpses, little interactions, a passing glance in the halls, a moment stolen from the cafeteria, but seeing Danielle happy and growing up was enough for her.


    But it all crumpled away when she saw Ricky standing in front of her.


    "F*ck~" Ricky sighed, leaning his head back since he really didn''t know what to do in this situation and sort of cursed at how he himself wound up here.


    "God f*cking dammit." Ricky cursed, pinching the bridge of his nose at this whole situation.


    Dolly simply sniffled, waiting to be pulled away, but Ricky just sat there, muttering curses under his breath until he finally turned to her.


    Dolly gripped the ends of her dress, her hands trembling as Ricky laid everything bare.


    "I did use you. I did kill Albert. And Sammy died because of my pops," Ricky admitted, the weight of his words sinking between them like an anchor as her breath hitched, eyes glistening with unfallen tears.


    "I did treat you like something more than just passing relief and I completely betrayed your kindness toward me. I''m sorry for that." Ricky continued, his voice steady but heavy as Dolly''s lips parted slightly, but no words came.


    "But I ain''t sorry for what happened to Albert and Sammy." Ricky held up his hand, his expression hardening as that ruthless side of him surfaced, the part of him that was almost completely indifferent to those outside his circle.


    "But they-"


    "First of all, Sammy wasn''t some noble soul, he was a dirty cop taking money from my pops," Ricky stated plainly, revealing the truth to Dolly who utterly flinched down to her very core.


    "No, he wouldn''t-" Dolly started, shaking her head, but Ricky cut her off.


    "He did and then he decided to backstab my pops by taking money from the Five Points Gang. Almost killed him when he shot him up a couple of times, which, funny enough, is how I met Lucky in the first place." Ricky said, rubbing his mouth and looking off to the side while Dolly''s grip on her dress tightened.


    Her world was shifting under her feet, everything she thought she knew crumbling piece by piece by Ricky''s brutal honesty, trying to tell herself it was more lies and yet, couldn''t bring herself to tune him out.


    "And Albert? Me and Lucky warned that guy countless times to just let Sammy''s death go, ''cause in our world, you don''t just let a guy who tried to kill you walk away. It don''t work like that," Ricky revealed, shaking his head since people who tried to kill you once always tried again, Albert had been no exception.


    "Albert pushed and pushed until he hit a breaking point. I won''t apologize for those two." Ricky''s voice was firm, unwavering as Dolly''s lips trembled, but she said nothing throughout it all.


    But then, after a brief pause, he exhaled sharply, once again looking at her trembling figure while placing a dangling curl around her shoulder.


    "But I''m sorry to you."


    That was the only apology she was going to get and deep down, she knew it was the only one that mattered.


    "You were so good to me, you didn''t just brush off what you did, you genuinely felt guilty for what you thought you''d done to me." Ricky admitted, his voice was low, heavy with something he rarely let slip through.


    "And I''m sorry I ruined that part of you, stole that innocence from you and made you feel this heartache that no mother should have to feel." Ricky sighed, the weight of it settling in his chest.


    He knew, knew deep down, that Danielle would have benefited from Dolly''s love, from the warmth only a mother could give.


    But of course, it was his fault as his actions and negligence to the situation had set all of this in motion.


    "I can''t go back and change the past, but I can at least try to fix it now, if you''d let me." Ricky said, placing his hand over his heart since he really wanted Dolly in Danielle''s life and was willing to lower himself if it meant she would get her back.


    Dolly was silent for a long time, truly thinking about it, letting the weight of everything settle and then, finally, she turned to Ricky, her hurt expression unwavering.


    "I-I don''t think I can ever trust your words again." Dolly admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.


    "I''m sorry."


    And in that moment, Ricky knew that some things, no matter how much you apologized for them or tried to fix them, could never be undone.


    "I made a decision to give Danielle up, because part of me was scared she''d never have the life I dreamed for her," Dolly admitted, her voice wavering while her heart twisted at her next words.


    "But on that same note a part of me is relieved."


    Sniff


    "Because every time I look at her, I see your eyes staring back at me. I see the reminder of everything I''ve lost, everything you took from me. And she doesn''t deserve that, she doesn''t deserve to bear my pain or grief, she only deserves to be loved." Dolly wiped at her eyes, her breath shaky as she stood up, forcing herself to walk away, even as her heart ached with every step.


    "Goodbye, Ricky."


    Ricky sat there, watching as Dolly walked away, her steps unsteady but her resolve firm and even though he had hoped she would, she didn''t look back.


    He exhaled slowly, rubbing his jaw as the weight of her words settled in as there was no coming back from this, no way to undo what had been done.


    Dolly had made peace with her decision, but it wasn''t just about Danielle.


    It was about him.


    She could never look at their daughter without seeing his sins, his betrayals, the pain he had inflicted upon her and Danielle didn''t deserve to carry that burden.


    Ricky let out a bitter chuckle, running a hand through his hair at the fact that he had lost her.


    Not just in the way men lost women, but in a way far deeper, far more permanent one, and he deserved it.


    The sun dwindled from the sky, casting long shadows over the quiet street, but Ricky remained on the bench, watching the last slivers of light fade beyond the horizon.


    Before long, Bumpy made his way over, settling beside him without a word as he held out his box, just two cigarettes left.


    Ricky took one, lighting it with steady hands, the flame flickering briefly before he inhaled deep.


    The smoke curled from his lips as he exhaled, staring ahead, lost in everything that had just unraveled.


    "Why couldn''t you be the same asshole I once knew, huh?" Bumpy asked, finally breaking that long silence between them.


    "Why couldn''t you just be the same guy I could blame everything on and know that I was justified in feeling that way ''cause you just sucked?" Bumpy voiced his frustration, looking at Ricky who just laughed the entire time he vented.


    "It was just so much easier that way, easier when you just f*cking sucked." Bumpy relented, holding his face while slumping on the bench.


    "I hear that," Ricky sighed, because Bumpy was right since shrugging everything off and never giving a damn about anything that wasn''t his next high had always been the easy way out.


    "Alright, fine, I''ll ask the question. ''What the f*ck happened when you left?''" Bumpy joked, turning toward Ricky who let out a dry laugh, shaking his head as he took another drag from his cigarette.


    "You sure? It''s kind of a boring and lackluster story-"


    "Sh*t, man, I ain''t got nothing better to do than listen." Bumpy held up his hand, a quiet resignation in his voice as he had nothing left except his car to his name, no home, no family, and no one waiting for him.


    "Alright, well, it starts off with me wallowing on this boat-"


    Ricky then proceeded to tell Bumpy everything, how he''d been exiled from New York, his arrival at the Vatican, the fight with Dracula, getting his ass handed to him by Dracula, training until he could finally kill the bastard, coming back for the trial, and now, returning to patch things up.


    By the time he finished, his cigarette had burned to the filter, and Bumpy just sat there, staring at him like he had grown a second head.


    "You telling me you fought Dracula, from the book?" Bumpy finally said, his face dead serious.


    "Yeah."


    "And he whooped your ass?"


    "Yeah."


    "But then you trained, went back, and killed him?"


    "That''s what I just said."


    "Then you came back and did that entire trial thing for petty revenge?"


    "Yup."


    "Man, you ever stop and listen to the sh*t that comes outta your mouth?" Bumpy let out a long breath, shaking his head.


    Snort


    Ricky snorted, hitting his knee as he laughed along with Bumpy, who had that carefree attitude, just rolling with the absurdity of it all.


    They ragged on each other, trading jabs, the weight of everything momentarily lifting.


    "Man, you out here fighting f*cking Dracula, and I''m just trying to keep gas in my car," Bumpy chuckled, shaking his head rubbing the back of his head.


    "Hey, don''t sell yourself short. That''s a real battle nowadays," Ricky smirked, taking another drag from his almost entirely used cigarette.


    "You''re telling me, two days ago, I went to fill up and the guy tells me twenty two cents a gallon, unbelievable" Bumpy scoffed, unable to believe how high gas prices were right now as Ricky nodded.


    "Well, let me know when you take on Frankenstein next." Bumpy sighed, his words coming off as a joke but this time, Ricky didn''t take it like that.


    "Guess you''ll have to stick around and see." Ricky just laughed, exhaling smoke into the night air as Bumpy looked up at him.


    "What are you-"


    "Come work for me, Bumpy." Ricky flicked his cigarette to the side, finally cutting to the real reason he''d spent the whole night riding around with him.


    Bumpy''s brain short-circuited for a second as he just stared at Ricky like he''d misheard him, until it fully registered, and only one reaction came to mind.


    SNORT


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Bumpy snorted out, heaving out a humongous stream of laughter while kicking his legs in the air as if it wasn''t the funniest thing he''s heard in his lifetime.


    "I-HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"


    Ricky just waved a hand, waiting it out as Bumpy doubled over, damn near crying with laughter and eventually, he wiped at his eyes, catching his breath.


    "Slick, don''t get me wrong, it''s crazy seeing how far you''ve come and hearing how you got here is actually impressive." Bumpy shook his head, still grinning while giving credit where it was due.


    "But I still f*cking hate you."


    Just because Bumpy could see how much Ricky had changed didn''t mean his opinion of him had suddenly flipped.


    Change didn''t erase the past, and for all the ways Ricky had grown, to Bumpy, he was still a piece of sh*t.


    Slapping the label of ''good father'' on himself didn''t undo the fact that he was a mobster, a killer, and worst of all, Ricky f*cking Luciano.


    A man who had taken, ruined, and burned bridges without looking back.


    A man who had left a trail of bodies, broken trust, and forced people like Bumpy to pick up the pieces of the mess he made.


    So yeah, Ricky had been through some sh*t that is just undeniable.


    He''d fought monsters, both real and metaphorical, but that didn''t mean he suddenly got to be the hero.


    It didn''t mean Bumpy had to act like everything was fine now, because it wasn''t.


    "I hate you. I genuinely hate you, and the only reason I did this was for my own satisfaction, to see that you couldn''t change, only to be f*cked over by you once again." Bumpy revealed, his voice raw, uncaring that Ricky could kill him with the flick of a finger.


    "I don''t think, and I''m being dead serious when I say this, that I''ve ever hated someone more than I hate you right now." Bumpy actually chuckled at this, his eyes filled with nothing but hate when they stared at the man before him.


    And it wasn''t just because of who Ricky had been, but because of who he was now.


    Because Ricky had the nerve to change, to evolve, to become something more than the reckless bastard Bumpy had spent years cursing.


    Because despite all the blood, the destruction, the people left in his wake, Ricky got to sit here, alive, happy even.


    And he didn''t deserve it, not in Bumpy''s eyes.


    "Eh." Ricky shrugged, waving his clear hate off as if he had expected this but that offer didn''t just magically disappear because he loathed him.


    "Eh? That''s all you have to say, eh?" Bumpy laughed, literally telling the most powerful man in New York that he hated him only to hear that lackluster response.


    "You think I didn''t know that? I hate you too." Ricky laughed right in Bumpy''s face, his words striking harder than any punch as Bumpy flinched, but only just barely.


    "God, I hated how much of a f*cking boy scout you were to Madame. Always looking down at me just for existing. I hated how capable you were but how you acted like some damn pet for Madame while still having all the respect to be something more. You were something I wasn''t and yet, I just didn''t want to be you. Weird f*cking feeling if you ask me." Ricky''s laugh faded into something colder, sharper as he raised his gaze.


    "And just like you, I f*cking hate that, man. I loathed you for being so damn capable, and now I hate you for wasting away just because Madame broke your heart." Ricky''s gaze, once edged with respect, was now tainted with disappointment, almost rotting away.


    Bumpy stiffened, his jaw tightening, but Ricky saw it, how his words hit their mark, how Bumpy seemed to shrink under the weight of them.


    No sovereign aura, no mutant powers, just the bare, ugly truth.


    "What the f*ck happened to you? What happened to the Bumpy Johnson I once knew? ''Cause this guy sure as hell ain''t it." Ricky asked, gesturing towards the man seated next to him as his voice lowered, but his words carried even heavier.


    "If I grew, then you''ve f*cking shrunk." Ricky realized, looking at this shriveled hollow shell of that man he once hated.


    "I''m not even mad anymore. Everything you''re saying doesn''t mean sh*t because the guy standing in front of me ain''t the same one I used to feel threatened by. The one I always had to retaliate against." Ricky shook his head, exhaling sharply as to why he didn''t punch him in the face earlier.


    "It''s sad, man. Making fun of you isn''t even fun anymore, it''s just f*cking sad, and it pisses me off that I don''t enjoy it anymore." Ricky laughed, shaking his head as the anger from it all seethed inward.


    "F*ck!" Ricky shot up from the bench, running a hand through his hair as frustration boiled over.


    Bumpy sat there, feeling like some kid getting lectured, the roles they once played now reversed in the worst way.


    "I had this whole plan for Harlem when I came back and I thought I''d have to fight you for it too. I thought I''d get to see how much you''d really grown." Ricky let out a bitter laugh, holding his head since he had built Bumpy into this obstacle that would''ve tripped him up.


    "I expected you to be the goddamn Godfather of Harlem and instead, all I got was some heartbroken sob story." Ricky''s voice dropped lower, spreading out his arms since to him, Bumpy was supposed to be the king of Harlem, not some wallowing sad sack.


    "Can you even defend yourself right now? Can you even tell me I''m wrong?" Ricky asked, frustrated at the continued silence only for his eyes to widen.


    "Jesus, you can''t." Ricky scoffed, watching Bumpy duck his head, unable to meet his eyes.


    "I loved her-"


    "Oh my God, just shut the f*ck up!" Ricky yelled, cutting Bumpy off before he could even get the words out.


    Bumpy gritted his teeth, fists clenching, but Ricky wasn''t done, deciding that someone, even if it was him, had to wake this guy in front of him up.


    "She doesn''t love you, she''ll never love you, and I know that for a fact." Ricky spread his arms, watching Bumpy''s gaze snap up to him.


    "Because I f*cked her," Ricky revealed, dousing Bumpy in cold reality as his breath hitched, his face twitched, but Ricky caught it, pressing into that sore spot.


    "N-No she wouldn''t, she-"


    "She''s having my bastard." Ricky let the words hang, his smirk cruel and sharp.


    "Told me a couple days ago. Surprise~." Ricky said, tearing down that image that Bumpy had so carefully built up for her.


    "But Madame St. Clair isn''t one of those women. She isn''t one of those floozies you knocked up. She''s-" Bumpy shook his head, a hollow chuckle leaving his lips.


    "She''s not the untouchable goddess you think she is." Ricky leaned in, his voice revealing the truth of Madame St. Clair''s entire existence.


    "She''s not some saint you put on a pedestal. She''s just like every other woman, just a different flavor." Ricky emphasized that last part, really digging into his sore sport as Bumpy''s jaw locked, but Ricky didn''t let up.


    "That''s the problem with guys like you, guys who idolize love." Ricky took a step closer, watching Bumpy like a lion sizing up wounded prey.


    "You build it up into this sacred, perfect thing, this dream. But you never imagine yourself actually having it until it''s too late." Ricky spread his hands, as if painting some dazzling illusion in the air, only to let it slip through his fingers.


    "And guess what? It''s too late." Ricky shrugged, bearing the entirety of the truth towards Bumpy/


    "You smothered her right into my sleezy arms, congrats." Ricky sneered, watching as Bumpy''s glare slowly lifted to meet him.


    "If you''re hear to hire me, why are saying all of this-"


    Slap


    "BECAUSE YOU''RE F*CKING PATHETIC!" Ricky roared, his palm cracking against Bumpy''s face with a sharp slap.


    Bumpy flinched, but Ricky wasn''t trying to hurt him, he was trying to wake him the f*ck up.


    Out of all the people Ricky hated, out of all the people he didn''t like, Bumpy was one of the few he actually respected.


    Bumpy came from nothing, just like him.


    The difference was that Ricky had Lucky and Bumpy had no one but his own damn imagination.


    It took Ricky a while, but over time, he''d come to respect the man as although he never liked him, you didn''t have to like someone to respect them.


    And that''s what pissed Ricky off the most as this whole thing with Madame St. Clair, it made Ricky sick to his stomach because he saw too much of himself in Bumpy.


    Wasting potential.


    Letting something so stupid hold him back.


    Ricky had clawed his way out of that pit.


    But Bumpy?


    Bumpy was still drowning in it.


    "YOU''RE BECOMING ME, DON''T YOU GET IT?! YOU''RE DROWNING YOURSELF IN YOUR OWN F*CKING MISERY BECAUSE YOU CAN''T REALIZE THAT IT''S OVER!" Ricky barked, watching Bumpy''s face twist before he lunged.


    "SHUT UP!" Bumpy roared, unable to handle anymore of Ricky''s words and charging at him.


    But Ricky didn''t move, didn''t flinch, and just gestured him forward.


    Bumpy swung, wild, reckless, sloppy and Ricky could have easily dodged.


    Could''ve made him miss and look stupid, but he didn''t.


    BAM


    The punch connected, knuckles crashing against Ricky''s jaw like a thunderclap but he didn''t even stumble, however, Bumpy did.


    "F*CK!" Bumpy yelped, staggering backward, cradling his fist like he''d just punched a brick wall.


    "F*CK YOU, SLICK!" Bumpy spat, chest rising and falling like he wanted to go again.


    But it was then that it all hit him, the pain, the emotions, the clarity, and all of this made his breath shudder, his lips twitched, his shoulders sagged.


    Sniff


    "Dammit, f*ck you."


    The rage in his voice thinned, cracking at the edges, drowning under the weight of something heavier.


    Something that wasn''t anger, something closer to grief, and that something finally woke him up from this wallowing spell he was under.


    "Madame''s never gonna love you, and all you''ll ever be is her errand boy." Ricky''s words cut through the air like a blade, giving him the straight up truth and nothing less.


    "She orders you around like some damn dog, and you just let her." Ricky gestured, looking at the sniveling man beneath his gaze.


    "But I''m not just offering you a spot as my little servant. I''m offering you Harlem, Bumpy." Ricky said, getting to the point as his words made Bumpy completely freeze.


    "What?"


    "What do you mean ''what''? You think the Luciano family can properly manage Harlem and its community?" Ricky scoffed, genuinely posing the question that left Bumpy silent, because they both knew the answer.


    "I love my family, but they can''t even look at a guy from Cabrini without sneering. They only see their own and it''s why they can''t run a bunch of blacks, they''ll see them as nothing more than dogs." Ricky let that sit for a second before driving the knife in deeper.


    "Just like Madame sees you." Ricky finally drew parallels, getting to where he was going with it all and watching Bumpy''s jaw clenched.


    "I need someone who understands Harlem. Someone the people respect, not fear. Someone who''s hungry to prove himself." Ricky took a step closer, voice low and sharp while bending down.


    "I thought you were that guy and turns out, you''re not. But you can be." Ricky reached into his suit pocket and flicked a business card at the grass below Bumpy''s wallowing.


    "Call me when you''re ready to be Bumpy Johnson, not whatever the hell this is." Ricky waved his hand at him and with that, he turned, stepping toward a green portal he conjured open.


    But before stepping into it, he glanced back at Bumpy, who still had his hand pressed against the ground.


    With a quiet shake of his head, Ricky turned away, leaving Bumpy alone with his thoughts, able to mutter only one thing.


    "F*ck you Slick, f*ck you."


    Author''s Note: Saw your comments, laughed at all my spelling mistakes, fix it later.

 Chapter 174 - 167: Departure

    Chapter 174 - 167: Departure


    Meanwhile In Staten Island,


    Although night had loomed over Staten Island, the coven entangled in its internal affairs remained abuzz.


    Beneath an unassuming office building, a grand adornment was taking place as every member of the coven, except for the children and their caretakers, had gathered here.


    The coven elders and Agatha sat at the helm of the meeting, positioned on a raised platform overlooking the other members seated in rows.


    This emergency meeting had been underway for a while now, yet the elders'' briefings were far from over as the discussion phase had just begun.


    Whenever a highly detrimental event occurs, all members, even the regular ones, are given the opportunity to voice their thoughts on the matter.


    However, for the last six hours, the coven had been vehemently discussing the attack on the Ordo Draconum, Merlyn''s involvement, and the revelation of what he had been doing to their coven and their ancestors.


    "Elders, I understand that we''ve been taken under the protection of the Warlock Ricky Luciano and have been integrating into not only stable jobs but their family, we''ve agreed and have not complained." A high-ranking member, Dexter, voiced as the other coven members nodded.


    "But this subject isn''t about being grateful, this is about avenging our lineage, our ancestors, and finally laying them to rest!" Dexter revealed the biggest issue within the entire coven and the meeting since as of right now, they wanted blood.


    "Fifteen years ago, at the last battle with the Ordo Draconum, I had to watch as they ripped my little brother from my barely alive grasp." Dexter revealed, raising his shirt to show the large scar staining his skin.


    "A sword impaled in my abdomen, left for dead, all to the sound of his kicking and screaming, and now I''m told that he might be a chimera? I CANNOT SIT STILL, I MUST PUT HIM OUT OF HIS MISERY!" Dexter roared, his words igniting a frenzy among the others as though necromancy was practiced within the coven, chimeras were not.


    Even the coven strayed away from chimeras and its magical practice.


    Unlike the undead, which could be animated with necromantic energy, a chimera required something more, life had to be forcibly breathed into its stitched-together form.


    Rotting flesh would always result in the deterioration of the creation, rendering it unstable, grotesque, and ultimately useless since it didn''t pair with life magic.


    That was why, for those who dabbled in the grotesque art, the preferred method was to keep specimens alive before using them as parts to better breath in the magic of life.


    A horrifying practice, one that made Dexter''s blood run cold as the possibility that his little brother had not been granted the peace of death, that his body had been repurposed into something monstrous, was unbearable.


    It was not just grief that gripped him, it was terror, that sheer and utter terror that his brother still existed in some grotesque half-state, bound to a form that was neither human nor corpse, trapped between life and death with no means to move on.


    The thought sickened him, it enraged him, and more than anything, it was the fuel of the fire that rippled across the entire coven.


    "Dexter, we are not saying no, but asking you to wait-oh thank god~" Agatha said, carefully trying to explain only to see a portal open near her and heave out a sigh of relief.


    There, the entire coven watched as Ricky Luciano, the warlock they had preached him to be, stepped out of the portal and into their midst.


    All eyes were on him, scrutinizing his every move, searching for the power and presence that had been spoken of in whispers and proclamations alike


    CLAP


    "Alright, I know you''ve been waiting, and I don''t want to waste your time, so let''s keep this short and sweet!" Ricky''s voice boomed as he clapped his hands together, silencing the murmurs.


    "In a month, I''m raiding Otherworld, and I want anyone seeking revenge to join me!"


    The entire coven froze, his words hanging heavy in the air and sinking into the coven like a stone in deep water.


    Then, as if a dam had broken, nearly half of the witches and warlocks rose to their feet, their eyes burning with the fire of long-held vengeance.


    Murmurs of resolve rippled through the crowd, the once simmering tension now boiling over into something tangible, something violent.


    A tidal wave of shouting erupted through the chamber, voices overlapping in a chaotic symphony of anger and resolve.


    Though steeped in powerful magic, the coven had always been deeply spiritual.


    Spirit arts were the backbone of their traditions, woven into every ritual, every incantation.


    They communed with the dead, sought guidance from ancestors, and above all, ensured that the spirits of their kin could find rest as it was not just a practice, it was a sacred duty.


    To leave their lost ones trapped in limbo, enslaved as chimeras, was a desecration beyond words.


    Their traditions forbade idleness in the face of such an atrocity and to act was not a choice; it was an obligation, an honor.


    Their ancestors cried out for release, and the coven would not stand by while their souls remained bound in suffering.


    The uproar swelled as more witches and warlocks rose to their feet, their eyes burning with conviction.


    "Hold on, hold-DAMMIT, SHUT UP!" Ricky bellowed, his voice slicing through the chaos as he finally roared over the mass shouting, bringing the entire room to silence.


    "I know a lot of you wanna come, but I can''t lug around all of you and that''s why the elders will decide who joins me." Ricky stated firmly, his gaze sweeping over the crowd.


    "But before you even ask, I need to know now since I''m not about to f*cking change my entire plan because someone decided to join at the last minute. If you want in, speak up now, if not, you''re staying behind." Ricky specifically said, pointing at all of them since he didn''t care about their sob stories since he''d heard too many at this point.


    "So don''t be a d*ck, make a line and pitch yourself to the elders." Ricky solemnly said, gesturing towards Agatha who had a polite smile as the witches and warlocks gazed at one another, then slowly funneled into a line.


    ''Thank you.'' Agatha mouthed, her sweet smiling forming on her lips before she looked at the first one in line, Dexter.


    "Alright, let us start the reviews."


    While the reviews were underway, Ricky sat in the audience, distanced from the others, his presence isolated from the ongoing deliberations.


    From the depths of his coat pocket, Alexander slowly peeked out, his curious gaze sweeping over the tense gathering.


    "We are really leaving tomorrow, correct?" Alexander asked, only speaking once Ricky had set up a soundproof barrier.


    "Of course, no way am I waiting a goddamn month." Ricky said, crossing his arms as Alexander nodded, seemingly satisfied with the answer.


    "Then the reason you did it now is because-"


    "Because I wanna throw whoever the fuck the rat is off for a loop, make them decide now rather than run off to get advice from that asswipe Merlyn," Ricky mused scartching his chin while Alexander nodded in understanding.


    "Hmmm, and Merlyn wouldn''t make them switch since that would be too obvious, putting any unnecessary suspicion on his supposed ''rats'' wouldn''t be good." Alexander mused, watching Ricky nod while his eyes stayed on the next guy stepping up to pitch why he should go.


    "But you do know there could be more than one, and the likelihood they join you is low," Alexander whispered, truly pondering the issue.


    "Yeah, but it''s not zero and to be honest, based on everything you''ve said and how calculated Merlyn is, do you really think he wouldn''t keep his eyes on me?" Ricky asked, watching Alexander shake his head.


    "No, this is good, you''ll divide and conquer," Alexander thought, realizing that if there was more than one traitor, they would either be split up or forced to choose one side or the other.


    While this was going on, Cedric seemed to be dazing off, lost in thought, until his wife, Morgana Frost, gently smiled and took his arm.


    "Cedric, honey, if you''d like to join, I wouldn''t mind. I know how your best friend''s passing still lingers," Morgana cooed, watching as Cedric downcast his gaze before looking over at her.


    "My friend?" Cedric asked, only for a splitting pain to reverberate in his head before his wife put her hand on his shoulder.


    "But what if-"


    "You are only doing your duty." Morgana Frost smiled warmly, gently nudging him forward.


    The other elders watched the exchange, their expressions unreadable, while Eldric Stone was the only other elder who had stepped forward to join.


    "Then, Agatha, I would like to volunteer," Cedric said, raising his hand and Agatha nodded without hesitation, there was no need for him to explain himself since he was already an elder.


    Now that two elders had joined, the rest of the coven members felt more comfortable stepping forward.


    Over the next hour, names were called, debates were had, and choices were made, by the time the process was complete, the group was decided.


    Clap


    "Alright, now everyone follow me," Ricky called, gesturing for them to follow as the group exchanged uncertain glances, but shrugged it off, deciding to trust him.


    Ricky led them down a narrow hallway, his pace steady and confident as Agatha raised an eyebrow but didn''t question him since she trusted his judgment, even if his methods were sometimes unorthodox.


    They entered another room, this one far more secure than the previous spaces.


    Then, all of sudden, Ricky closed this entire room in his barrier before walking in front of them.


    "I know this is sudden, but I just wanna get to know all of you, so I''m gonna ask you all some questions, and you''ll just answer them," Ricky said with a casual laugh, his demeanor seemingly light-hearted but it was completely seeped in lies.


    The coven members exchanged looks, a little confused by his approach, but understood to some degree but still, there was something unsettling about it.


    "Alright, what''s your name?" Ricky said, coming over to Dexter first as he stood straight up.


    "Dexter Savante, sir!" Dexter truthfully said, a little too enthusiastically. Ricky calmed him down with a motion.


    "Relax, and tell me why you want to come with me."


    "Because I was left for dead and had my little brother taken away, I wish to come to finally free him from his imprisonment or satiate my hatred." Dexter didn''t even try to hide his anger as Ricky slowly nodded.


    "Now, have you ever betrayed the coven?" Ricky asked, his question making the others look shocked, but they all didn''t dare interrupt as Dexter squinted his eyes, clearly annoyed by the question.


    "Never."


    His words didn''t carry the slightest hint of a lie as Ricky shrugged and moved on to the next person.


    "What''s your name-"


    Ricky''s questioning was simple but effective, three questions that peeled back layers of hidden truths.


    But the first two questions were merely to placate until that last question ''Have you ever betrayed the coven?''.


    He didn''t need them to confess outright nor did he need grand admissions of guilt, his whispered falsehoods would whisper all the buried truths into his head and sometimes, would allow him to glimpse into the lie.


    The problem was how many truths were being layered under this specific question.


    One warlock, for example, had lied and allowed for Ricky to subtly peek into the lie which revealed to him that he had been stealing magic powder to snort during his free time.


    It wasn''t anything that would destroy the coven, yet it still qualified as a betrayal.


    He wasn''t the rat he was searching for, but his actions were still a betrayal of the coven''s trust.


    And as Ricky peeled back these layers, he realized how much more complicated the situation was than he initially thought.


    The coven, it seemed, was riddled with small but consistent betrayals as each member, in some way, had hidden something, whether it was an addiction, a fear, or a lie too small to matter on the surface but too large to ignore in a group bound by secrecy and trust.


    And it was this web of half-truths, rather than any single glaring betrayal, that made Ricky''s task so maddening and incredibly annoying.


    "Alright, Cedric, let''s make this quick. Have you ever betrayed the coven?" Ricky said, waving his hand to speed things along.


    To Ricky, Cedric was that snooty grandpa who spoiled Zatanna and was genuinely jealous of any attention Ricky gave her, which made him subconsciously lower his guard.


    "Not unless it is all the friends that have died because of me." Cedric spoke, his words heavy as it was a truth and yet, Ricky somehow peered into it as if it were a lie.


    ''What the-''


    "I''m sorry, I''m so sorry, my friend~" Cedric sobbed, cradling his best friend in his arms as he bled out, the chaos of battle raging around them.


    The sound of clashing steel and distant cries barely registered as Cedric''s world narrowed down to the man he held, the blood staining his hands, and the weight of a broken promise.


    "I''m sorry for my sins~"


    "Ricky?" Cedric asked, watching Ricky zone out as he shook his head but looked at him weirdly.


    Ricky knew from the previous question that Cedric wanted to attend because of his past grief, but unlike the others, Cedric didn''t just carry an insufferable amount of sorrow.


    He also seemed to peer into Cedric''s truth, something he had never done before, especially since it was unclear whether Cedric felt guilt over his friend''s death or something else entirely.


    "It''s nothing, old man." Ricky muttered before turning his attention to the next elder and the one who despised him to his very core.


    "I''m not answering your questions." Eldric spat, his voice seething with disdain.


    "The only reason I''m going with you is to avenge my daughter, who died in the last attack. When I get my revenge on Merlyn and put those chimeras to rest, I''m coming back. I''m not taking orders from you." Eldric finished, crossing his arms in front of Ricky who furrowed his brow, sensing the lie in Eldric''s words.


    But before he could speak, Eldric''s voice cracked in distress within his mind as he peered into the truth.


    "Matilda, MATILDA!" Eldric screamed, his eyes wide with desperation as a memory flickered before them.


    Ricky''s gaze sharpened as the truth emerged, Matilda hadn''t died but instead she had been taken, abducted, leaving Eldric to pursue not vengeance, but the desperate hope of finding his daughter.


    Ricky could feel the shift in the air as the weight of Eldric''s true intentions became clear.


    "Fine, be a d*ck about it." Ricky shrugged, backing up while keeping an eye on both these elders.


    Walking around, Ricky continued his line of questioning, which dragged on far longer than it should have and eventually, he resorted to firing off questions left and right just to get through it.


    By the time he finally finished, he dismissed all of the conven members including the elders, leaving himself alone in the room.


    Slumping back in his chair, he frowned at the ceiling, lost in thought.


    Alexander, watching him closely, expected Ricky to be rubbing his greedy hands together in satisfaction. Instead, he found him sitting there with a hollow look, his expression unreadable.


    "Ricky, I would''ve thought you''d be celebrating right now, drinking and smoking till the sun rises, as if you were feasting with the gods themselves. Yet here you are, appealing to fit the expression nowadays ''kicked in the balls,''" Alexander remarked, shamelessly adopting the era''s lingo to describe Ricky''s vacant expression.


    "Because I was so f*cking sure of myself and now I''m confused." Ricky frowned, his words making Alexander scrunch his furrowed brows.


    "What are you saying, Ricky?" Alexander asked, thinking that Ricky had at least detected the rat they both long suspected.


    "I''m saying that I didn''t find the f*cking rat."


    Meanwhile at Cedric Residence,


    A dazed Cedric finally arrived home, guided by his wife as his entire being felt adrift, his mind submerged in a fog so thick it left him detached from reality.


    "Cedric, honey, this way," Morgana Frost urged with a gentle smile, pulling along the man who now moved like a sleepwalker towards his office, his once-sharp eyes vacant.


    "O-Oh, yes." Cedric muttered, clutching his head as if trying to hold his thoughts together.


    But through all of it, through the entire meeting, something was wrong.


    Every part of him felt worn, as though he had been stitched together with frayed threads barely holding him intact.


    His mind lagged behind his body, his thoughts sluggish and disjointed, like pieces of himself had been misplaced along the way.


    "You''re alright, love," Morgana reassured, leading him through the threshold of their home, her grip firm yet soothing as she guided him toward his office.


    "Why don''t I remember anything-"


    "Love, you''re alright-"


    "N-No, stop." Cedric shoved Morgana away, his breath hitching as a sharp, splitting pain erupted in his skull.


    He staggered back, gripping his head, his vision blurring at the edges as it felt like something had been surgically extracted from his mind, pried open, tampered with, and stolen.


    "Something''s missing." Cedric rasped, panic creeping into his voice as he painfully clutched his head.


    "I can feel it, like a part of me has been cut out." Cedric''s knees nearly buckled as the realization clawed at him, the weight of the void in his mind pressing down harder with each passing second.


    But through all of this, Morgana remained calm, too calm, watching him with a pleasant, wrinkled smile.


    "Cedric," Morgana Frost said softly, stepping toward him with a practiced patience.


    "You''re overthinking this, just breathe and follow me, and I can help you-"


    But her words only made his dread fester since he knew himself, he knew when something had been taken from him, and right now, something was gone.


    "I-I have to warn Agatha. Something''s wrong-"


    "My love, I can''t let you do that." Morgana''s voice was still sweet, but her grip turned to iron and before Cedric could react, two more pairs of hands seized him.


    One belonged to his son, Alistair, his fingers digging into Cedric''s arm with practiced ease as his usually warm brown eyes were completely drained of emotion, glassy yet intense, as if he were looking through his father rather than at him.


    Beside him, his daughter, Evelyne, latched onto his other arm with surprising strength as her delicate fingers, which had once braided flowers into his hair as a child, now clutched him with a force that sent a chill up his spine.


    "Father, calm down," Alistair said, his voice eerily devoid of its usual warmth while looking at him as if this was necessary.


    "Yes, Father," Evelyne chimed in, perfectly synchronized with her brother while holding Cedric in place


    "You need to relax and touch this crystal ball. Everything will make sense afterward." Evelyne gestured, pulling out a familiar clear crystal ball from the side.


    "No, no!" Cedric yelled, trying to break free only for Evelyne to roll her eyes and yank his hand onto the crystal ball herself.


    GASP


    The moment Cedric''s hand touched the crystal ball, it pulsed with light, and his eyes rolled back as his fractured mind reeled.


    His memories, once splintered and scattered, flooded back in a chaotic torrent, piecing themselves together with a jarring clarity.


    But through the haze, a conversation resurfaced.


    "What is it?" Merlyn''s voice carried a sharp edge of annoyance, his words crackling through the crystal ball.


    "Agatha has informed the elders that an emergency meeting has been called to determine if anyone seeks revenge against you after your involvement was revealed," Cedric dutifully reported, bowing his head lightly towards this grand figure.


    "So he finally took the bait, good." Merlyn chuckled, poised to write something down before suddenly pausing and thinking of something.


    "Did he say if anyone else would be accompanying him?" Merlyn asked, a new thought forming that bubbled up into words.


    "Unless he plans to bring some of the unpowered individuals from his little mafia, the only forces I can think of are his undead summons." Cedric furrowed his brow, trying to recall Agatha''s exact words before shaking his head.


    "How amusing." Merlyn rubbed his chin before continuing to write on a scroll.


    "What is it, Master Merlyn?" Cedric asked, watching in silence as the seemingly ancient man scribbled onto the parchment.


    "Do you recall their little war meeting? The one where you reported that a certain ''gerbil'' claiming to be Alexander the Great managed to deduce my motives?" Merlyn mused, glancing at Cedric with an interested smile.


    Cedric nodded dutifully since although he hadn''t been able to bring the orb into the meeting, he had memorized and relayed everything that had transpired.


    However, Merlyn wasn''t particularly concerned with their feeble attempts to strategize against him.


    And yet, despite the limited information Merlyn had allowed to slip, the man had still reached an accurate conclusion.


    "It seems they''ve begun to suspect an insider within their ranks," Merlyn said in an amused tone, not even the least bit threatened at having a portion of his plans revealed.


    "But I thought I-"


    "Think carefully, little Cedric. When did you first report Ricky Luciano''s connection?" Merlyn interjected, asking the question that made Cedric lowered his head in shame.


    The reason being that this connection had formed too late due to his own incompetence.


    Only those from Otherworld, those attuned to that familiar energy and feeling its connection to the void, could truly recognize the taint of the Nethergods.


    Otherworld acted as a gate between dimensions, a barrier that prevented their influence from seeping into Earth.


    While their presence could sometimes be felt in the deepest corners of sorcery, it remained imperceptible to most, concealed beneath layers of natural and arcane forces.


    And yet, despite Ricky being within Cedric''s range for some time, he had never openly displayed his powers in a way that would draw suspicion.


    Although Ricky hadn''t intended it, his use of those powers had been restrained by his surroundings since there was simply no need for them.


    More than anything, however, they had remained unintentionally subtle.


    The only time Cedric could have witnessed it before was during the battle against Dracula.


    Ricky had indeed used his abilities, but the overwhelming clash of supernatural energies had clouded everything.


    The battlefield had been saturated with vampiric magic, necrotic forces, and ancient sorceries, enough to drown out the subtleties of any one source.


    It had been easy for Cedric to miss the awakening of Ricky''s power while he was fighting for his life against the horde of high ranking vampires.


    But on that day, when Ricky walked away from Morgana, there had been no chaos, no battlefield brimming with magic to mask the truth.


    The only thing that stood out was Morgana''s arrival, which had sharpened Cedric''s perception.


    The sudden reveal of a looming threat to Camelot had set his mind on edge, tuning him to even the slightest disturbance.


    It was in that heightened state of awareness, his senses sharpened by the looming threat of Morgana, that Cedric''s gaze drifted, casual, almost absentminded.


    And ironically, it wasn''t in some grand revelation, nor in the heat of battle, nor in the aftermath of a catastrophic spell.


    No, it was in the most mundane of moments, one that was most likely skipped over, when Ricky, without a second thought, retrieved his grimoire to open a portal as he always did, that Cedric saw it.


    His eyes didn''t widen at the sight of the entire book, nor even at a full spread of text, just a single page.


    A single page that should not have been there.


    For the briefest moment, as Ricky flipped through his grimoire casually, Cedric caught sight of it, a void-black page, nearly indistinguishable from the shadows themselves.


    It wasn''t ink, it wasn''t charred parchment, it was a depthless stain upon reality, the kind that didn''t merely exist but devoured the space around it.


    And Cedric felt it.


    Even in that fleeting glimpse, his senses recoiled, seized by a terror he hadn''t felt in years.


    The sheer presence of that page wasn''t just dark, it wasn''t just corrupted, it was something far worse.


    It gnawed at the edges of existence itself, a malignant force that had embedded itself into everything that had destroyed his life and childhood.


    The same taint, the same abyssal horror that had once ripped his world apart, now lay hidden within Ricky''s grimoire.


    The mark of the Nethergods.


    Others would have mistaken it for mere dark magic, dismissed it as an advanced curse or an unusually malevolent enchantment.


    But Cedric knew better.


    Dark magic was potent, insidious, and cruel, but it was still bound to the rules of this world.


    It operated within the known laws of sorcery, drawing from the well of mortal ambition, fear, and wrath and even the most forbidden spells still carried the weight of something understandable.


    But this was different, this was not just darkness, but an absence.


    Not magic, but a violation of it.


    The Nethergods did not gift power; they infested it, twisting the very fabric of existence into something unnatural.


    And Cedric had recognized it instantly, for the single reason he had been put in this coven in the first place instead of residing in his home of Camelot.


    "It is understandable that your detection skills are so lacking, you left us at such a young age to become nothing more than a weed." Merlyn chuckled, referring to Cedric in a peculiar way that made him lower his head.


    "That''s why you''ll live up to your title by joining his little crusade," Merlyn dismissed Ricky''s efforts with a smirk, reducing his call to arms to nothing more than a minor spectacle.


    He felt perfectly in control of the situation, certain that everything was unfolding according to his design.


    "But to ensure he doesn''t have another power hidden up his sleeve, place your hand on the orb and open your mind to me."


    It was then that Merlyn revealed the perfection of his handiwork, the meticulous stitching of Cedric''s mind, the very same perfection that left Chester utterly baffled at its sophistication.


    It wasn''t simple brainwashing or memory tampering; it was something far more insidious.


    Merlyn had not begun to merely alter Cedric''s thoughts, he had started to reform the very foundation of who he was.


    He had taken pieces of Cedric away, excised entire fragments of his identity, and seamlessly stitched together what remained, leaving no gaps, no uneven seams, no inconsistencies that a lie detection ability could expose.


    To Cedric, there was no deception, no buried truth, only the reality that Merlyn had shaped for him.


    "Have you regained yourself?" Merlyn''s voice echoed through the crystal ball, his gaze sharp and expectant.


    Before him, Cedric drew in a slow breath as the final remnants of Merlyn''s work settled into place.


    His form stabilized, his posture straightened, and the haze clouding his mind lifted, only for a new, carefully sculpted clarity to take its place.


    With deliberate grace, he lowered himself onto one knee, the weight of his restored self pressing upon his shoulders and he was not alone.


    One by one, the rest of his family followed, kneeling in unison, a silent, reverent submission to the will of the sorcerer who had reforged them.


    "Yes, Master Merlyn." Cedric dutifully bowed, his family following as Merlyn eyes saw the four of them all gathered.


    "And has your family completely given themselves to bearing the sins of our fallen king?" Merlyn asked, his voice smooth, expectant.


    But instead of the immediate nod he anticipated, Cedric hesitated, a single pause, so small yet all the more telling.


    Merlyn''s expression darkened ever so slightly as his gaze sharpened, scrutinizing the old man knight through the crystal ball.


    "What are you hiding?" Merlyn inquired, his eyes narrowing as if persecuting the man before him.


    Cedric''s lips pressed into a thin line as he closed his eyes, steadying himself against the weight of the moment.


    "My grandson, Alistar''s son, hasn''t been made aware and taken the pledge-"


    "Then have him take the pledge." Merlyn interrupted, his tone final and at his command, they all closed their eyes since there was only one initiation required for the pledge.


    "And you also said that Ricky Luciano has very capable offspring, correct?" Merlyn''s voice made Cedric widen his eyes, raising his head.


    "Master Merlyn-"


    "This is necessary, Cedric. All your hard work will finally be rewarded because for the promised king," Merlyn said, his voice laced with reassurance.


    Cedric''s fists clenched tighter, his knuckles paling under the strain as he knew Merlyn understood the weight of what he was asking, the unspoken conflict raging within him.


    For a moment, his gaze remained downcast, wrestling with his morals, with the path laid before him and then, slowly, he lifted his eyes, resolve hardening within them as he stared ahead.


    "We must bear his sins."


    Next Morning,


    "There we go~," Ricky muttered to himself, digging a hole in the backyard of the mansion with deliberate focus.


    Then, he held out his hand as a seed materialized in his palm, something that had been tucked away in the corner of his storage for far too long.


    (Rare Item) Everbloom Seed: A small, enchanted seed that, when planted, instantly grows into a majestic and perpetually blooming tree. The tree''s blossoms have unique properties, such as healing properties, the ability to induce sleep, or the power to enhance magical abilities.


    "Aye, where are my little helpers?" Ricky asked, dropping the seed in the hole as he looked around.


    "Coming!" Zatanna excitedly cheered, carrying a small bin of trash with a fast motion while Daneille walked at a slow, manageable pace with the trash in her hand.


    "Careful, Zatanna, you''ll-"


    But before Danielle could finish, Zatanna stumbled forward, the momentum of her excitement nearly sending the bin flying.


    Bam


    Zatanna stumbled, falling to the ground and scraping her knee as Ricky jerked his head backward, then sighed.


    "Zatanna, are you okay?" Danielle asked softly, setting down the trash with care as she watched Zatanna push herself up.


    Sniff


    "Uh-huh," Zatanna mumbled, but her watery eyes betrayed her words, shimmering as if they were moments away from spilling over.


    "It''s okay, don''t cry." Daneille bent down, patting her shoulder as the little girl slowly covered her eyes, rubbing them as if trying to stop the tears from forming.


    Sniff


    "I''m-"


    Sniff


    "Not-"


    Sniff


    "Crying~" Zatanna hiccuped, her tears finally spilling over as Ricky let out a small sigh and got up, walking over to her.


    "Come here, let me see it," Ricky said gently, kneeling down and scooping her up.


    The moment she was in his arms, Zatanna melted into his embrace, burying her face against his chest as her tiny fists clenched his shirt, staining it with the tears of the innocent.


    "I''m not crying~" Zatanna whined, as if accusing Ricky of entertaining such blasphemous thoughts while he chuckled.


    "I didn''t even say anything," Ricky retorted, nudging his face against hers as if trying to pry her away from his shirt.


    "You''re lying! You were thinking it~" Zatanna insisted, swatting at his face that wouldn''t stop laughing.


    "Why would I think you''re crying? You''re not even hurt," Ricky teased, watching as Zatanna sniffled and rubbed her eyes.


    "What?" Zatanna murmured, following Ricky''s gaze only to realize her knee, which she was certain had been scraped, was perfectly fine.


    Since Ricky had already healed it while she was definitely not crying.


    "See? Look, how could you cry without even being hurt?" Ricky asked, kissing her cheek as Zatanna sniffled, nodding her head.


    "Yeah."


    Sniff


    "I didn''t cry because I''m not hurt." Zatanna reiterated her fathers words sitting in Ricky''s arms as he rubbed her eyes to clear away any and all of these nonexistent tears.


    Danielle had stepped to the side, peeking her head through Ricky''s armpit to check on her little sister with a deeply concerned expression, gently holding her small hand to help her through the moment.


    It was a quiet, calming scene as Ricky and Danielle both waited patiently for Zatanna to regain herself but just when she was about to speak, a red fur ball rolled in.


    "I GOT IT!" Sarah roared, bursting onto the scene and running in circles, triumphantly holding up a garbage bag three times the size of both Danielle''s and Zatanna''s.


    "I WON, I WON, I WON!" Sarah cheered happily, seeing that her trash bag was far larger than her sisters as she ran in triumphant counterclockwise circles, reveling in her victory.


    "It wasn''t a competition, Sarah." Danielle said quietly, slipping into her role as the big sister as she noticed Zatanna starting to pout, her eyes welling up with tears again.


    "Oh yeah~" Sarah suddenly realized, her victorious smile flipping into a frown as she dropped the oversized bag of trash.


    "I don''t wanna do this anymore!" Sarah proclaimed, turning away and marching off to do whatever else caught her interest.


    Watching Sarah march off, Zatanna crawled out of Ricky''s arms and lunged at the trash bag, sniffling as she rolled it over to him.


    "Here, Daddy! For you!" Zatanna beamed, immediately smiling as she took Sarah''s abandoned bundle of trash and presented it to Ricky.


    "Zatanna, that was Sarah''s-" Daneille muttered, trying to stop Zatanna for taking credit that didn''t belong to her as she frowned.


    "But she left-"


    "But you can''t-"


    "Girls, stop." Ricky sighed, rubbing their hair before playfully rolling them around until they both tipped over, breaking into giggles.


    "You stop!" Zatanna fired back, giggling as if her retort was the funniest thing in the world.


    "Yeah, Daddy, you stop!" Danielle chimed in, laughing along with Zatanna as their innocent laughter bubbled forth as Ricky rolled his eyes, shaking his head at their antics.


    "Do you both wanna see me grow a tree or not?" Ricky asked, standing up and grabbing the trash before dumping it over the seed that had been planted in the ground.


    The two little girls'' laughter came to an immediate halt as they exchanged glances before whipping their heads back to Ricky, then bolted after him.


    Rushing up behind him, they bumped into his legs but quickly grabbed onto his pants before they could stumble backward, peeking out from beside him with wide, eager eyes.


    "Aye, Moxie, Johnny-" Ricky turned to the side, calling out for his sons, only to spot Alexander watching over them.


    "Yes, young warriors! Swing as if there is an enemy charging at you, desperate and fearful, willing to do anything to survive." Alexander commanded, pacing back and forth atop Bucephalus''s snout as he monitored Johnny and Moxie, both fiercely swinging their wooden swords through the air.


    "THEN YOU CUT HIM DOWN-"


    "Dammit, Alexander! What did I say about teaching them that stuff, man? They''re like three!" Ricky called out, exasperated, expecting Alexander to at least wait until they were older.


    "Yes, and-QUICKLY, BUCEPHALUS, ESCAPE BEFORE HE NOTICES!" Alexander looked up at him, nodding as if in agreement but what started as a calm response turned into a sudden command as Alexander shouted, and Bucephalus immediately bolted to the side, leaping over the nearby fence in a daring escape.


    SPLASH


    A towering wave of water erupted into the air as they landed straight into the neighbor''s pool, splashing wildly before the weirdly muscular horse cleared the next fence without missing a beat.


    Sigh


    Ricky just sighed, shaking his head at Alexander''s antics as he was used to it by now while behind him, his daughters chuckled, amused by the spectacle.


    "Aye, Bob! Wanna come over and watch?" Ricky called out, already expecting rejection from his other sons, so he turned his attention to Bob, who lingered near the shade.


    But instead of answering, Bob continued to sway, moving to rhythm with the wind and the subtle calls of the birds as Ricky tilted his head, watching him curiously.


    "I guess that''s a no?" Ricky muttered, shrugging before turning toward Henry and Gus.


    "How can you say that? Catcher in the Rye is a timeless classic-"


    "My point was not rooted in whether it is a classic, but rather that it simply falls short of what I consider a true masterpiece." Gus clarified, cutting Henry off, and properly explaining his point.


    Ricky blinked, watching the two five-year-olds debate literature with a level of articulation that far exceeded his own.


    "Carmine?" Ricky called out, watching as the boy wandered through the backyard, completely engrossed in his own little world.


    Carmine didn''t even acknowledge him, too absorbed in whatever had caught his interest.


    "Okay, I guess it''s just us ladies," Ricky said, turning to Danielle and Zatanna as they giggled at the recognition before watching him pile more trash into the hole.


    Meanwhile, off to the side, a gathering of the women Ricky spent his time, and his cum, which sat around a table, oddly quiet as they observed.


    Ricky didn''t know how long he''d be gone, so he arranged one last gathering to see his kids and have them all together before he left.


    The only ones missing were Carla and Augustine, who were busy preparing for their move to New York.


    They had stayed behind in the Vatican, as Augustine was growing a little too attached and insisted on saying goodbye to Cardinal Sebastian, who was currently away on a missionary trip.


    It was hard to believe that a group of women, all tied to the same man, could get along as best friends and the truth was, they didn''t.


    None of them were truly that close with one another.


    Of course, given Ricky''s lecherous ways, it wasn''t hard to understand his lack of commitment or his inability to direct his lust toward just one woman as most of them were at least vaguely aware of the others.


    It was just that meeting for the first time had left a sour taste in some of their mouths since there were a lot of them.


    However, out of all the women, the two who least preferred each other''s company were strangely enough Raven and Agatha.


    It was as if they instinctively knew the other women were merely secondary, ordinary figures with different personalities, yet lacking the depth and significance to carry weight within Ricky''s world.


    However, some women were too preoccupied to entertain this minor occasion, as Jennifer and Rosa were engrossed in their own work but ensured that their boys could attend the function.


    "So, Azalea, it is a pleasure to meet you." Raven smiled, breaking the silence as she set down her teacup.


    "Yes, you too." Azalea nodded, her tone polite but cautious since as a pimp, she understood just how dangerous this situation could be, especially in this one, her instincts warning her to remain on the sidelines.


    "You said you''re from Harlem, right?"


    A piercing gaze bore down on Azalea, making her lower her head under the weight of Madame St. Clair''s curious expression or how Ricky knows her, Stephanie.


    "Y-Yes." Azalea stuttered, struggling to keep her composure as she might not have known the other women at the table, but she knew Madame St. Clair, and that alone was enough to unnerve her.


    Though Raven and Agatha were the most powerful among Ricky''s harem of women, Stephanie wasn''t far behind.


    Maintaining her stake in Lucky Legacy Bank alone made her the richest Black woman in the United States, possibly even the world.


    She might not have had the years or connections that Raven and Agatha did, but she had something just as formidable: financial backing.


    "Well, it''s really nice to meet you-" Alina, seeing the venomous atmosphere, tried to lighten it up only for Agatha to lean onto the table.


    "Still, it''s quite impressive that you managed to slip under Stephanie''s radar for so long, considering Harlem is under her watch. Though, I suppose these are peaceful times~" Agatha remarked, reaching over to grab a biscuit as Stephanie''s smile widened ever so slightly.


    "I-I-" Azalea hesitated, her eyes darting over to Stephanie who showed a gentle smile and yet, her eyes were as sharp as daggers.


    "Make sure to elaborate in scrupulous detail Azalea, since Agatha here is so isolated on her little, almost tiny, island." Stephanie laughed, covering her mouth as Agatha held back her sneer.


    "I mean, who wouldn''t want to know everything about New York when you''re so far away from the city?" Stephanie continued, watching Agatha raise her smile as Raven simply took a sip of her tea.


    Alina hesitated, lightly touching her face as uncertainty crept in since what was supposed to be a pleasant gathering was quickly unraveling into a verbal battle, until someone, entirely devoid of hostility, excitedly leaned in.


    "I love your dress," Maria whispered to Alina, who smiled brightly, turning to the young woman whose eyes dazzled.


    "I got it at Ramond Lamon''s dress shop-"


    Gasp


    "I love Ramond Lamon''s!" Maria covered her mouth, immediately delving into a side conversation with Alina.


    Irene blushed fiercely, unsure of what to do with her hands as embarrassment washed over her as she had never been to a tea party before.


    "As long as you don''t put your elbows on the table, you''re fine, honey." Raven whispered, leaning over to the distressed Irene.


    "O-Oh, thank you!" Irene whispered back in relief, adjusting herself as Raven held out her hand.


    "Raven," Raven introduced herself, her gaze settling on one of the few women who hadn''t borne Ricky a son.


    In her eyes, the greatest threats to her child''s future inheritance were the sons ahead of them in the line of succession.


    Deep down, she had never wanted a daughter, she had wanted a son, one who would solidify her claim to Ricky.


    No matter how powerful she was, tradition dictated that only a son could inherit the mantle, especially in the Luciano family.


    It was why Raven felt uneasy among all these women, and why she sought to sink her claws into Irene.


    To steer her toward the foundation of her own budding faction within Ricky''s harem.


    "I-I''m Irene." Irene smiled brightly, relieved that someone was finally talking to her.


    Raven tilted her head, observing her for a moment before reaching toward her shoulder as Irene flinched, but Raven merely plucked off a stray leaf and flicked it aside.


    "It''s a true pleasure to meet you, Irene."


    WHOOSH


    In that moment, Ricky activated Green Thumb, causing the Everbloom tree to suddenly sprout behind Raven.


    Its blossoms unfurled in a breathtaking display, casting dappled light over the gathering.


    Irene stared, lost for words as to how it could be possible for someone to appear as ethereal as Ricky.


    In her mind, he was something beyond mere flesh and blood, something untouchable, almost divine but even so, Raven graced her sight all the same.


    "BEANSTOCK, BEANSTOCK!" Sarah roared, immediately bolting back into the backyard, drawing everyone towards the blooming tree.


    "Holy sh*t," Ricky muttered, staring up at the towering tree as its leaves unfurled, already thriving.


    Tendrils of green energy cascaded from the branches, drifting through the air before sinking into the earth, mending the barren patches of dirt with vibrant life.


    "I knew it! I knew it!" Chuck exclaimed excitedly from the side, startling Irene, who had never seen any of Ricky''s undead before. Raven chuckled at her reaction.


    "Don''t worry, he''s one of Ricky''s." Raven whispered, winking at Irene as if assuring her she''d understand soon enough.


    "I still don''t get it," Boney muttered, trailing after Chuck, his gaze darting around in confusion as he struggled to grasp what was happening.


    "BONEY!" Zatanna squealed with delight, dashing toward the undead knight, who immediately bowed.


    "My lady," Boney said in a chivalrous tone, his formal gesture making Zatanna giggle madly as she grabbed the ends of her dress and curtsied like a princess, fully embracing the moment.


    "Do not make yourself look foolish in front of the master''s sired children!" Chuck whispered harshly, his voice barely contained but Boney merely rubbed his skull, unfazed by the reprimand.


    "But how does this relate to you handling those trinkets-"


    "Those weren''t mere trinket''s you buffon!" Chuck yelled, slapping Boney''s head as something rattled within it making Zatanna laugh at this show.


    "They were the tools for our masters'' fortresses!" Chuck exclaimed, facepalming as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.


    "Huh?" Boney and Ricky echoed in unison, equally baffled.


    "I apologize, Master. I know you intended to handle it yourself, but I simply couldn''t stand idly by as your loyal servant," Chuck sighed helplessly, completely misinterpreting their confusion as he looked up at Ricky, who merely scratched his head.


    "Uh, remind Boney what it is you did again." Ricky, playing along, pointed at Boney as Chuck nodded diligently.


    "You see, back in our encounter with those humans, I-"


    Chuck then launched into a detailed explanation of how he had completely misinterpreted Ricky''s intentions.


    At no point had Ricky even considered doing this, but the way his gaze had lingered on the passing prisoners made Chuck falsely assume he had plans to use their anti-magic items.


    Instead of lounging around like Boney, Chuck took what he believed to be his master''s subtle, if nonexistent, orders and began repurposing these items into anti-magic defensive devices.


    In his mind, Ricky was consolidating his claim over the land by gathering houses as if they were castles, leading Chuck to assume that the anti-magic devices were meant for fortification.


    He had gone too far, far beyond what anyone expected as even the women tuned in from the side, Chuck proudly revealed that he had installed these devices all over his castles within the mainland, with only Staten Island and Long Island left untouched, simply because he couldn''t swim.


    Ricky was somewhat shocked as he observed the extent of Chuck''s work.


    Somehow, this undead summon had managed to reconfigure the anti-magic devices into a functional network and even created a new controller that allowed anyone, mana or not, to operate them.


    The original anti-magic devices were designed to suppress or negate magical abilities within a certain radius, typically activated by those who wielded mana.


    However, Chuck had bypassed this limitation by modifying their energy flow, linking them together through a rudimentary but effective control system.


    By repurposing various components, likely scavenged from different magical and mechanical sources, he had created a centralized device that interfaced with the anti-magic field.


    Instead of requiring direct mana manipulation, the controller functioned through physical inputs, using levers, a dialed coded mechanism that could trigger the devices in sequence.


    In essence, Chuck had unknowingly revolutionized how anti-magic defenses operated, making them accessible to even non-magical individuals.


    This meant that Ricky, or anyone else, could now activate or deactivate the field at will without relying on a mage, giving them a distinct strategic advantage.


    The only problem was that Chuck had not only stolen and repurposed all the available anti-magic devices, but he had also designed the system with a critical flaw, its complete reliance on a single, interconnected network.


    If even one of the devices were destroyed, the entire system would collapse, rendering all of his efforts useless.


    Chuck, in his enthusiasm, had unknowingly created a fragile web where each device was a crucial link.


    Instead of operating independently, they were all synchronized to function as a collective whole.


    "Woah," Ricky muttered, watching as Chuck placed the trigger into his hand.


    From the side, Agatha''s grip on her teacup tightened until it shattered in her grasp at a lost expression forming.


    BAM


    "HOW DID YOU EVEN GET THEM?!" Agatha shrieked, her voice laced with disbelief and fury, throwing her hands on the table while staring daggers at Chuck.


    As far as she knew, her coven had confiscated every last anti-magic device for research and yet here they were, sitting in Ricky''s hands like trinkets from a street vendor.


    Chuck, unfazed, simply turned his head toward Boney who was looking at a passing bird.


    Flashback


    "Look over here! Look at me!" Boney bellowed, hopping up and down while juggling fourteen skeleton heads with expert precision.


    The coven members, thoroughly mesmerized, gasped and clapped, their attention completely stolen by the absurdity of the display.


    Meanwhile, Chuck inched his way behind them, eyes locked on the wheelbarrow they had carelessly set down.


    Moving with the precision of a practiced thief, he reached out and scooped up an armful of small anti-magic devices before bolting into the tree line.


    "TADA!" Boney cheered, tossing the skulls into the air and catching them in rapid succession, his performance hiding the crime in plain sight as claps resounded.


    Flashback End


    Back in the present, Agatha just blinked, staring at Chuck before her face crumbled into a furious expression as if she was ready to set the entire place on fire.


    "You mean to tell me, that you stole them-" Agatha seethed, her voice dangerously low, since those anti magic devices were a very touchy subject in the coven.


    "Used them, for my master''s intended purposes." Chuck corrected, holding up a single bony finger.


    "And you managed to do that because of mere juggling?" Agatha asked, her voice taut with exasperation, not at Chuck, but at the sheer incompetence of her coven for letting it happen.


    Meanwhile, Raven sat off to the side, thoroughly entertained, a sly smile on her lips as she sipped her tea, enjoying the spectacle like it was a stage play crafted for her amusement.


    "I get the whole anger toward Chuck, but you all gotta admit, that''s pretty f*cking impressive," Ricky said, clapping his hands with an amused smirk.


    Chuck, delighted by the praise, took an exaggerated bow, grinning like a performer basking in a standing ovation.


    "Thank you master, I am only delighted that I could properly carry out your plan." Chuck humbly said, before turning his head upwards.


    "But, if I may intrude into your grand scheme, am I to assume that I will be joining you on your expedition?" Chuck asked, desperately wanting to be by his master''s side rather than cooped up in the basement.


    "Uh, yeah, I''m taking all the undead guys, minus a couple that''ll stay here and guard," Ricky said, surveying his forces as he left most of the uncommon ones buried in the yard, their dormant forms ready to rise against any intruders.


    "Oh, oh, Master, take me!" Boney shouted, frantically waving his hand as Chuck face-planted in exasperation at this buffon.


    "The only one not going is a certain undead because I have explicit plans for him." Ricky chuckled menacingly as the reason Frances wasn''t here was precisely because of that.


    "And there, finished!" Frances declared, wiping her forehead before stepping back to admire yet another portrait of Ricky.


    Turning around, she glanced at the undead Dewey, scratching her head in confusion as she had no idea who, or what, this wraith truly was.


    "I wonder why Ricky told me to order him to look at all my paintings?" Frances mused, looking at the scene briefly before turning back to her finished work.


    The room was filled with dozens of portraits of Ricky, and Dewey stood before them all, forced to gaze upon each one for hours on end, a punishment for revealing Ricky''s secrets to Dolly.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Ricky let out his best supervillain laugh, cackling as Danielle clung worriedly to her father''s leg, as if he had lost his mind.


    "Johnny, Zatanna, we need to go." Agatha suddenly stood up, the veins on her forehead practically throbbing with frustration.


    "But Mommy-" Zatanna immediately started to pout, her joyful smile souring in an instant


    "No buts. Mommy needs to punish some of her co-workers." Agatha smiled wickedly, her tone sending a shiver down Johnny''s spine.


    Zatanna huffed, kicking a nearby pebble before reluctantly making her way toward the materializing purple portal.


    "Okay," Zatanna muttered stubbornly before turning back to give Ricky a quick hug and then, without another word, she ran toward the portal.


    "Johnny, Mommy really needs to hurt-I mean, talk, urgently." Agatha said with a laugh, quickly covering her slip-up.


    Johnny hesitated for only a moment before grabbing his sword and dashing over to Agatha, waving goodbye to Moxie on the way.


    "Bye, darling~" Agatha purred, her voice dripping with sensuality as she received a lazy, sleazy wave from Ricky.


    But the moment her eyes flicked to the side, catching sight of Raven, she straightened up, smoothing her expression into one of composed politeness.


    "Let''s continue this another time," Agatha said properly, her tone cool and measured as Raven merely chuckled, setting down her teacup with an amused smirk.


    "Yes, let''s." Raven''s eyes curved into crescent moons, locking onto Agatha with a knowing gaze.


    Agatha gritted her teeth but said nothing, turning sharply before stepping into the portal since the only one to blame was herself, in her mind.


    "Bye, Danny!" Zatanna called out, her exaggerated wave stretching toward Danielle, who smiled in return.


    "Bye," Danielle replied softly, her warm expression lingering as Zatanna disappeared into the purple portal. She then lowered her gaze, fiddling with her fingers.


    "Hey, you''ll see her again," Ricky reassured her, leaning down.


    Danielle looked up at him, her small hands reaching out, a silent request and upon taking the hint, Ricky scooped her up, holding her close.


    "And you''ll-"


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The neighbors next door screamed, interrupting Ricky''s words as he simply sighed.


    "Oh, my apologies, wrong house." A familiar voice sounded, turning to leave as the screaming continued before two pairs of horns stuck out.


    Ricky watched patiently as the two-horned figure strode along the entire length of the fence before Asterion finally reached the door and opened it.


    "Hello, all." Asterion greeted, correcting his previous mistake as he stepped into Ricky''s backyard.


    "I apologize for being late, but I saw the most beautiful rock I''ve ever seen, and I had to truly understand its beauty before I could move on," Asterion chuckled as his words instantly piqued everyone''s curiosity as to what could possibly make a rock so beautiful.


    "And I-wow, what a fascinating tree!" Asterion''s attention drifted like the swaying leaves of the everbloom tree.


    Its entire purpose was to utilize the items within Ricky''s inventory and enhance his mastery of Chastiefol.


    Mastery: 6¡ú9%


    ''So close.''


    For the rest of the day, the day of his departure, there wasn''t any sort of grand strategy meeting or meticulous planning, just time.


    Time that Ricky chose to spend with his family, the young Luciano family he was building.


    The afternoon sun cast a golden hue over the estate as laughter echoed through the mansion grounds.


    Danielle clung to his arm, her small hands wrapped tightly around his as she chattered about the stories she had been reading.


    Ricky listened, half-smirking, watching the way her eyes lit up when she spoke.


    Every now and then, she would pause, awaiting his reaction, and he made sure to nod in just the right moments, his presence alone enough to make her happy.


    Sarah was play-fighting with Asterion, her laughter ringing through the air as she led the charge alongside Carmin and Moxie.


    The trio attacked with playful ferocity, darting around the towering Minotaur, who humored them with exaggerated movements, pretending to stumble under their relentless assault.


    Meanwhile, Bob continued his dance, completely lost in his own rhythm, twirling and stepping as if the world around him didn''t exist.


    Carmine, however, stood apart from the others, his gaze locked onto the everbloom tree as his hands traced the smooth bark.


    Meanwhile, Irene sat beside him on the patio, absentmindedly fiddling with the edge of her dress, but adorning a happy smile while talking with Raven about this and that.


    Further off, Alina and Maria were deep in conversation, laughing over something trivial yet meaningful in the way only newly forged friends could.


    Even Azalea, who had once been so tense in the presence of these women, seemed to have settled into the environment as Stephanie had eased up at the departure of Agatha, though her eyes remained cautious.


    It was a sight to take and Ricky took it all in.


    These were his people, his women, his family and though power, wealth, and ambition drove him forward, in these rare moments, he allowed himself the indulgence of simply existing among them.


    Evening crept in, painting the sky in shades of amber and violet, and still, there were no heavy discussions or pressing matters.


    His children slowly departed, each walking alongside their mothers, their laughter and lingering excitement proof of the bonds that had been formed.


    This gathering had not only been a day of play but a moment of revelation, siblings meeting for the first time, friendships taking root among them.


    The connections forged here would last for decades, weaving a complex tapestry of loyalty, rivalry, and unbreakable ties across the vast Luciano family.


    But right now, Ricky''s expression was serious, his usual ease replaced with a quiet intensity as Alexander himself remained silent, his gaze fixed on a certain figure in the distance.


    There was one last thing they needed to do before leaving, one final, unresolved matter that had been set aside for too long.


    One thing that-


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    The sounds of obesity quite literally shattered the fourth wall as Garfield, now weighing what looked to be four hundred pounds, waddled into Italiano''s.


    "It wasn''t four hundred, but-"


    Huff


    Huff


    "Give me a second~" Garfield heaved, holding his heart and sweating bullets after walking up literally three stairs.


    "Jesus Christ, you''re f*cking fat." Ricky exclaimed, staring at what could only be described as the result of animal cruelty.


    For any normal person, this would be a shocking sight since even Alexander had never seen a cat as fat as Garfield in this moment.


    "Garfield, I acknowledge your strength but you must know, that this will not be enough-" Asterion warned, watching Garfield lug his way over to him.


    "It will be, all my training will have paid off!" Garfield roared in defiance, holding his head up and looking up at that tall mountain of a being that Asterion was.


    "I, Garfield The Cosmic Cat, challenge you, Asterion, to an eating contest!" Garfield beckoned forward, watching Asterion slowly turn his gentle gaze into a serious one.


    "I, Asterion, accept."


    No other words except the subtle declaration of war between Asterion and Garfield need to be spoken because all that mattered was that it had already been accepted.


    Their battlefield wasn''t some grand coliseum, but a long wooden table, burdened with towering stacks of pizzas, their molten cheese bubbling like lava.


    The scent of fresh-baked crust and rich tomato sauce filled the air, intoxicating and foreboding all at once.


    Asterion rolled his shoulders, nostrils flaring as he cracked his knuckles.


    Across from him, Garfield simply stretched, his lazy demeanor a carefully crafted deception.


    His half-lidded eyes betrayed nothing, but Ricky, watching intently, could see it clearly just like anyone else.


    The Cosmic Cat was ready.


    Asterion didn''t hesitate. He grabbed an entire pizza, folding it in half and shoving it into his mouth. His jaw worked with mechanical precision, devouring in a way that honored his beastly nature.


    Garfield, in contrast, was unbothered. He lifted a slice with two fingers, flicking it into his mouth like a coin into a well. One bite. Gone. Another followed. His chewing was near-silent, eerily efficient.


    The first pizza vanished in seconds, the second, and the third.


    Ricky and the surrounding beings watched in stunned silence as the two warriors fell into rhythm, neither slowing, neither relenting.


    Ricky was supposed to use this time to transition his undead from the basement, the Corpse Colossus slowly emerging from the swirling portal like a nightmare given form.


    Yet, despite the monstrosity looming in the periphery, Ricky couldn''t tear his eyes away from the spectacle unfolding before him.


    "YEAH, ASTERION, KICK THAT LITTLE SH*T''S ASS-huh?" Ricky yelled, cheering Asterion on as he devoured each pizza slice, trying to match Garfield''s speed.


    But his excitement faltered as his eyes shifted to the side.


    Johnny stood there, gripping Louis by the collar as the mutant child ducked his head in shame, avoiding Ricky''s gaze.


    Ricky side-eyed the event before heaving out a sigh, understanding something had happened.


    Without a word, he gestured toward the side, signaling Johnny to bring Louis inside.


    Then, turning away from the chaos of the pizza-eating contest, he walked toward an isolated room, waiting for Johnny to escort the boy in.


    "What''s wrong, did this kid kill someone or something?" Ricky asked, eyeing the grave expression on Johnny''s face as he nudged Louis forward.


    "Yeah, my trust," Johnny hissed, shoving Louis toward Ricky like he was tossing him to the wolves.


    Louis stood there, small and cornered, Ricky''s curious yet piercing gaze weighing heavy on him and slowly, hesitantly, he looked up.


    "Boss, there''s something I-"


    "YOU DON''T HAVE THE F*CKING RIGHT TO CALL HIM THAT!" Johnny roared, raising his hand to slap Louis but Ricky caught his wrist before he could land the hit.


    "Kid, out with it, why are you here?" Ricky''s tone was steady, but his gaze bore down on Louis like a weight as the child ducked his head, his small frame trembling.


    It was true that the runners had been making strides, but within the core of the mutant kids, there remained a subtle connection, an invisible thread leading back to someone always lurking in the shadows.


    "I''ve been spying for Elias, boss."


    "COME ON, GARFIELD! YOU MUST WANT VICTORY MORE THAN YOU WANT YOUR LIFE!" Alexander roared, cheering on his fellow familiar-in-arms as Garfield stuffed four slices of pizza into his face.


    "YOU CANNOT SLOW DOWN! MOMENTUM IS WHAT DEFINES A FIGHT, A BATTLE, A RIVALRY! AND YOU MUST TAKE HOLD OF IT! YOU MUST EMBRACE IT! IT MUST CONSUME YOU BEFORE YOU CONSUME IT!" Alexander bellowed, his voice a rallying cry of pure conviction.


    Garfield''s eyes watered, whether from sheer determination or the overwhelming mass of cheese and grease clogging his senses but still, he chewed.


    His jaw ached, his stomach screamed for mercy, yet he refused to falter.


    Across from him, Asterion remained an immovable force, a minotaur of sheer will and boundless appetite.


    His massive hands moved with practiced efficiency, folding entire slices into his mouth as if they were mere scraps.


    Not a single crumb was wasted and each bite was a declaration of dominance, a testament to his unyielding might.


    Meanwhile Garfield''s paws trembled as he reached for another slice, his breath coming in ragged gasps.


    His once-proud slothful nature had been replaced with desperation, a realization that he was no longer the predator, but the prey.


    Even after all his so-called training, the countless nights spent honing his stomach, Asterion''s seemed endless.


    His heart pounded as he forced himself to keep pace, but Asterion, unfazed and unrelenting, continued to devour with godlike precision.


    The room blurred around Garfield, his vision swimming as cheese-laden regret weighed down his very soul.


    The grease, once his greatest ally, had turned against him, settling deep into his core like an anchor dragging him to the abyss.


    With one final attempt, he lifted a slice to his mouth, but his body betrayed him as his grip faltered, the pizza slipping from his trembling paw and plopping unceremoniously onto the table and a deafening silence fell over the room.


    Asterion, still chewing, simply watched and then, with the slow, merciless certainty of fate itself, he reached for another slice and devoured it whole.


    Garfield huffed, his mouth still full of unchewed pizza, and reached out for another slice as his paw trembled, muscles barely responding, but he refused to surrender.


    Victory was just one bite away, one more greasy, cheese-drenched bite away.


    But before he could grasp it, a firm weight pressed down on his furry paw.


    "It''s over." Chester said, his voice devoid of mockery or gloating, only the cold, absolute finality of truth.


    Garfield''s world blurred, his ears rang, his mind, once a fortress of stubborn food-riddled defiance, cracked under the weight of those two simple words as his body followed suit.


    With a defeated wheeze, he slumped forward, his face smacking into the table with a dull thud as the pizza slice slipped from his grip, landing in front of him as if mocking his failure.


    The room was silent.


    Asterion, having long since devoured his final slice, folded his arms and exhaled through his nose like a victorious gladiator.


    "It was well fought and for that, I acknowledge your stomach, oh Garfield the Cosmic Cat," Asterion nodded, recognizing his victory but honoring all of Garfield''s hard-fought effort.


    Alexander, once a fervent cheerleader, now stood in quiet respect, bowing his head at the fallen warrior.


    "Rest how, gluttonous one. You fought well." Alexander paid his respects, for a hard-earned fight came in many forms.


    Though he had never taken part in a battle of such indulgence, he still acknowledged Garfield''s dedication.


    Sniff


    Sniff


    Behind Garfield''s defeat, the quiet sniffles of Louis rang out as Johnny guided him forward, his face tight with displeasure, but he bore it nonetheless, his boss''s orders were absolute.


    So much was going on, yet Ricky barely had time to process any of it, Garfield''s downfall, Louis''s trembling confession, Johnny''s simmering anger, it all blurred together, drowned out by the weight of what came next.


    Because now, it was time to depart.


    "Guys, let''s go, it''s time." Ricky gestured, opening a portal as the others nodded while Alexander patted Garfiled''s unconscious head.


    "Finally, the war is afoot!" Alexander charged forward, the first to scurry toward the portal, with Bucephalus galloping close behind.


    The undead who had gathered from the basement, Boney and Chuck, hurriedly sprinted into the portal, as if even a moment''s hesitation would doom them to be left behind.


    Meanwhile, the Corpse Colossus sluggishly dragged itself forward, its massive form heaving as it forced its way through.


    Asterion followed next, pausing to wave goodbye to Chester before stepping through and Ricky lingered for a moment, glancing back at him.


    "You know what to do-"


    "Yes, I''ve done my part." Chester nodded, recalling Ricky''s warning about the traitor and his own efforts to uncover the truth.


    "And can you handle-...that?" Ricky gestured vaguely at the unmoving mass of fur and fat that was Garfield, unable to put it into words as Chester let out a sigh before giving a solemn nod of his beak.


    Sigh


    "Yes."


    Meanwhile at a particular designated meeting spot,


    At the very first stroke of midnight, witches and warlocks found themselves abruptly summoned, their senses heightened with caution.


    An emergency order had been issued, Agatha''s command was absolute, demanding their immediate presence without explanation.


    The air buzzed with unease as spellcasters arrived in disarray, some barely dressed, still shaking off the haze of interrupted sleep.


    Amidst the tension, Eldric and Cedric exchanged words in a lighter manner, their voices a rare pocket of ease in the charged atmosphere.


    Yet, a glint of unawareness lingered in their eyes as they, too, had no idea what was coming.


    CLAP


    Ricky suddenly clapped his hands, snapping everyone''s attention away from their hushed whispers.


    The coven members who had conscripted for the upcoming battle turned as he stepped out of a portal, flanked by a towering minotaur, a regal horse, and a gerbil perched smugly on his shoulder.


    "Alright, who''s ready to leave for Camelot to kick Merlyn''s ass!" Ricky laughed, glancing around at the coven members who stood in dead silence, exchanging uncertain looks as if waiting for the punchline.


    "I''m sorry, could you repeat that, Ricky?" Cedric laughed, thinking it was some sort of joke as the other coven members chuckled along, sharing the same assumption.


    "I said, we''re leaving right now for Otherworld, like, at this very second." Ricky repeated, spreading his arms as the portal behind him sealed shut only for another to tear open, revealing their next destination.


    "....."


    The laughter and murmurs died instantly at his serious expression, their expression flicking akin to a torchlight as long shadows of uncertainty casted over the gathered witches and warlocks, their expressions shifting from amusement to grim realization.


    "You''re actually serious?" Eldric finally spoke up, his usual composed demeanor wavering.


    "We''re actually storming Camelot as of this moment?" Eldric asked in disbelief, glancing around as if trying to gauge whether Ricky was truly serious.


    "Well, no, ''cause to get to Camelot, you gotta go through this stupid portal somewhere in England." Ricky clarified, crossing his arms at the reason why Morgana wasn''t here at this moment.


    Rather than bringing her vessel along, Ricky had stationed her here to serve as an interdimensional relay, a makeshift phone for communication when he reached her true body.


    The arrangement greatly displeased her, but the fact that he was finally heading towards Otherworld was enough to ease Morgana''s frustration, at least for now.


    "So instead, we''re stopping at Dracula''s castle for the night before heading out." Ricky gestured toward the swirling portal behind him.


    The coven members exchanged baffled glances, some scratching their heads, others muttering amongst themselves.


    "Dracula? But I thought you killed him-" Cedric echoed the confusion, looking at Ricky who faced palmed at this obvious statement.


    "I did but I ended up boning his daughter so-ugh, just get in the f*cking portal." Ricky grunted, gesturing towards the portal once more but Eldric shook his head.


    "Why in the hell are we stopping there?" Eldric pinched the bridge of his nose, seemingly missing something as Ricky dragged his hand down his face.


    "Because it''s on the way and I''m not about to march into Camelot or Otherworld or both sleep-deprived. Merlyn''s a pain in the ass on a full night''s rest, I''d rather not face him or whatever the hell this Otherworld dimension has while half-dead from exhaustion." Ricky said, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world, once again gesturing towards the portal.


    "And I don''t have time for second-guessing so if you''re in, step forward. If not, get the f*ck out of the way." Ricky suddenly said before another one could speak up, gesturing his head towards the portal.


    All the witches and warlocks hesitated, their unease palpable as they had been under the impression that the invasion was still a month away, only for Ricky to upend their expectations, revealing it was happening right now.


    Murmurs spread among them, some shifting uncomfortably, others furrowing their brows in frustration but amidst the uncertainty, one figure stepped forward.


    Dexter.


    His jaw was set, his fists clenched at his sides as he wasn''t thinking about strategy, or how absurd it was to follow Ricky''s whims without warning.


    All he saw when he looked into that swirling green portal was the hope of laying his little brother to rest.


    Without a word, he stepped toward the portal.


    Then, as if it was the domino effect, one by one, the witches and warlocks followed.


    The hesitation lingered for only a moment longer before resolve hardened in their eyes.


    Each of them had their own reasons, revenge, duty, ambition, but in the end, they all stepped forward.


    The hushed whispers died out, replaced by the sound of boots against stone as the coven marched toward the portal, leaving behind whatever doubts they had.


    Cedric and Eldric both gazed at each other before nodding, walking forward behind their coven until Ricky was the last one.


    With a final glance back, he stepped through the portal himself, leading the charge into the unknown.


    "It took you long enough."


    Before Ricky and the coven''s eyes, Lilith sat upon her throne, her gaze sharp and expectant, as if she had foreseen their arrival long before they even stepped through the portal.


    The air in the throne room hung heavy with an eerie stillness, the flickering torches casting elongated shadows along the cold stone walls.


    "I know, I know-what?" Ricky started, expecting Lilith to demand an explanation for his presence, only for her raised eyebrow to throw him off.


    "Don''t play dumb, I know you were stalling after hearing my message." Lilith purred, resting a hand on her stomach.


    Ricky''s gaze flickered downward before snapping back to her face, confusion tightening his features.


    "Lilith, what are you talking about?" Ricky asked, glancing around at the coven members, all of whom looked increasingly uncomfortable as his eyes landed on Asterion.


    "You know what she''s talking about?" Ricky asked, his tone edging toward impatience as he turned to the minotaur, then the gerbil, and finally the horse, who merely huffed through his nose.


    "I''m talking about my message, the one I sent my servants, Bonnie and Clyde, to deliver," Lilith said, her eyebrow twitching but despite her suspicions, Ricky''s confusion didn''t seem like an act.


    "I still don''t know what''s going on and I was supposed to be the one surprising you," Ricky muttered, furrowing his brows.


    Lilith, however, only sighed in exasperation, her fingers tightening against the armrest of her throne as she scrunched her brow, knowing those two must be up to their shenanigans again.


    "The message that informed you of my pregnancy."


    Meanwhile in Bienville Parish, Louisiana,


    The morning was eerily still, the dense Louisiana forest humming with insects and the occasional rustle of unseen creatures.


    Bonnie and Clyde, having spent the day on the run, were in their stolen Ford, unaware that this would be their final ride.


    Unbeknownst to them, a posse of Texas and Louisiana lawmen, led by former Texas Ranger Frank Hamer, had tracked them for months, studying their patterns, anticipating their next move.


    The sun had barely set when they heard the faint roar of an approaching engine.


    But unaware and hidden in the bushes along the roadside, the posse of six officers gripped their rifles, their breaths held in silent anticipation.


    Dust kicked up from the dirt road as Clyde''s Ford crested the hill, the car moving at an easy pace.


    Inside, Clyde had one hand on the wheel, the other resting lazily on the leg of his darling Bonnie, curled up beside him.


    "Hey Clyde." Bonnie, wiping her lips with a tinge of fang appearing, asked Clyde who smirked.


    "Yeah, darling?" Clyde asked, winking at her as she giggled before cozying up to him and resting her head on his shoulder.


    "I just remembered that we-"


    BANG


    Suddenly, before Clyde could react, the thunder of gunfire erupted from the treeline as a bullet shattered the windshield, striking Clyde in the head.


    His foot jerked against the gas pedal, but the car never got the chance to surge forward.


    The second round of gunfire tore through the vehicle, riddling Bonnie and Clyde with bullets before either could draw their weapons.


    In the matter of minutes, the air reeked of gunpowder and blood.


    By the time the smoke cleared, the car was a mangled husk of bullets, its doors blown open, its windows spider-webbed with bullet holes.


    In it, Bonnie and Clyde''s lifeless bodies slumped against each other, their final moments spent together as they always had been.


    The lawmen approached cautiously, their rifles still raised as Frank Hamer took in the scene, his expression unreadable.


    The outlaws were finally dead, their reign of crime ended in a hailstorm of bullets.


    Except they weren''t.


    Suddenly, without warning, the two littered bodies of Bonnie and Clyde had their eyes snap open, scaring the officer but before they could pull the trigger, the two bared their fangs and lunged at them.


    "What in the-"


    Before he could finish, Clyde moved first as his once-limp body surged forward with inhuman speed, his mouth parting to reveal glistening fangs.


    Bonnie followed, her head snapping up, eyes glowing with a predatory hunger.


    The officers had no time to react.


    Clyde lunged from the car, his hand closing around a deputy''s throat with a vice-like grip, lifting him off the ground as if he weighed nothing.


    The man kicked and sputtered, but Clyde only grinned, his teeth, now sharp as daggers, sinking into the flesh beneath his jaw.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    BANG


    Bonnie moved with equal swiftness, twisting out of the vehicle in a blur as a shotgun fired, the blast hitting her square in the chest.


    But this time, Bonnie stopped pretending as she barely flinched and instead, she turned toward the shooter, a Louisiana officer whose face drained of color as she locked onto him.


    "You shouldn''t have done that, sugar~" Bonnie purred, licking her red lips before launching herself at him.


    What was supposed to be their carefully laid trap now turning into a massacre as bullets were fired, but they did nothing.


    The legendary outlaws, who had been cut down in their prime, were now something else entirely.


    By the time the sun fully crested the Louisiana horizon, the dusty road was painted in red, and Bonnie and Clyde stood among the wreckage, licking the last remnants of blood from their lips.


    "Oh shoot~" Bonnie suddenly realized, kicking up some dust in a huff as Clyde, seeing his baby acting like this, knew she was frustrated about something.


    "What''s the matter, darling? "Clyde asked, throwing the drained husk of the officer away as he tentatively walked over to Bonnie who eagerly turned to him with a guilty expression.


    "I just remembered, we forgot to tell that Slick fella that the Mistress is pregnant!"


    Author''s Note: I got way to into it when writing and really made this chap long but anyways, hope you enjoyed.

 Chapter 175 - 168: A Castle’s Depths

    Chapter 175 - 168: A Castle''s Depths


    SIGH


    Her once regal form crumpled into an annoyed, tired sigh as Lilith pressed a finger to the bridge of her nose.


    "Escort his cannon fodder to the servants'' quarters." Lilith said dutifully, waving her hand.


    In an instant, multiple low-ranking vampires dressed in maid and butler attire appeared, their eyes devoid of interest as they awaited orders.


    "Who are you calling-" Eldric frowned, his expression twisting with indignation, but before he could finish, Ricky interrupted.


    Snort


    "She called you cannon fodder!" Ricky laughed right in Eldric''s face, his amusement unrestrained and uncaring while only signaling him out.


    Eldric''s expression darkened, filled with immense discontent, only for Cedric to hold him back before he could lash out.


    "Not you guys, you''re all gonna fight with me. But Eldric right here? He''s the only cannon fodder I brought with me." Ricky, noticing the questioning gazes from the coven, laughed, doubling down on the joke.


    His carefree demeanor had an oddly comforting effect, easing their tension as if this wasn''t a joke, then at least they weren''t the ones being thrown to the wolves.


    The vampires, the very ones dressed in servant attire, approached the coven members, who instinctively recoiled, if only slightly.


    Ricky, unimpressed, shot them a deadpan stare, as if silently questioning their hesitation.


    "Oh come on, they don''t bite-"


    "They do! They''re literally vampires!" Dexter snapped, his earlier bravado crumbling into pure terror as he edged away.


    The same man who had strutted with confidence mere moments ago now looked like he was about to bolt, eyeing the low-level vampires as if they were rabid dogs ready to pounce.


    "Relax, it''s not like witches and warlocks are some rare delicacy." Ricky chuckled, his amusement evident as he turned his gaze back to Lilith.


    Lilith instinctively averted her eyes, refusing to meet his, her expression unreadable.


    "Right?" Ricky pressed, his voice laced with mock innocence.


    The undead servants remained eerily silent, the faint trickle of sweat on their otherwise lifeless forms betraying something unspoken.


    The sight only served to unnerve the coven members further, their previous apprehension now twisting into full-fledged dread.


    "Learn something new everyday I guess." Ricky muttered under his breath, rubbing his chin at this very fact.


    Within Marvel, vampires rely on blood as their primary source of sustenance because their bodies cannot produce sufficient hemoglobin, resulting in a perpetual need to consume blood to sustain themselves and preserve their strength.


    In essence, they suffer from a severe form of anemia, making blood consumption essential for their survival.


    However, just like any living race, vampires also take pleasure in the taste of their food and have developed a refined palate for a wide variety of blood types.


    While their primary need for blood stems from their biological deficiency, requiring it to sustain their strength and replenish their mana cores, they also indulge in the nuances of flavor, much like how humans savor fine wine or gourmet cuisine.


    Among the most coveted blood types, that of warlocks and witches stands apart. Infused with magic, their blood carries a richness and potency unlike that of ordinary mortals.


    The typically low muscle quantity in warlocks and witches enhances the richness of their blood, making it one of the most delectable blood types in the magical realm.


    Its lack of excess muscle tissue results in a smoother, more refined texture, allowing the innate magical essence to concentrate without interference.


    This magical saturation not only heightens its flavor but also provides an invigorating effect, making it highly sought after by vampires who crave both sustenance and power.


    "You''ll all be just fine, just don''t think about it." Ricky said with a wide, toothy grin, giving them a thumbs-up.


    The coven members exchanged wary glances, their unease only deepening at Ricky''s carefree assurance as his grin was wide, confident, almost mocking in its cheerfulness.


    "That doesn''t sound reassuring at all." Dexter muttered under his breath, shrinking slightly as one of the vampire servants stepped closer, their crimson eyes gleaming with undisguised interest.


    "Oh, come on," Ricky waved a hand dismissively, gesturing for them to relax.


    "You''re my army or whatever you call it, not livestock and besides." Ricky tilted his head, his grin widening as the servants slowly started escorting them out of the throne room.


    "You''re probably not their favorite flavor." Ricky purposely said, laughing as Dexter''s head snapped back while being shuffled out with the rest of the herd.


    "Probably?!" Dexter yelled, hyperventilating while being escorted out with the rest of the coven.


    "Was it wise to tease them so?" Alexander asked curiously atop Bucephalus'' head, aware that they would soon be thrown into the chaos of battle and unsure if it was appropriate to demoralize them.


    "Eh." Ricky shrugged, shifting his gaze back to Lilith, who was already watching him.


    "And here I thought they would never leave~" Ricky chuckled, strolling forward with a lazy confidence, arms outstretched in invitation.


    "Spare me the heartfelt reunion, I only asked you here to-R-Ricky!?!" Lilith started coldly, waving him off, only for her body to be suddenly yanked forward into his embrace.


    Her composure shattered in an instant, a deep blush blooming across her face as she stammered in protest.


    "Mhmmmmmm~" Ricky hummed, savoring the moment as he held the voluptuous vampire temptress carrying his child. His grip tightened slightly, indulging in her cold yet intoxicating presence.


    "You smell so f*cking good~" Ricky murmured against her neck, his voice laced with amusement and desire.


    The scent of pomegranate filled his senses, rich and alluring while Lilith, who had initially struggled, gradually stilled, her resistance melting away as her arms hesitantly found their way around him.


    Mumble


    Lilith mumbled incoherently, her usual poised and cocky demeanor unraveling under the weight of Ricky''s embrace.


    The confidence she carried like an impenetrable shield wavered, replaced by something softer, something more vulnerable.


    Her fingers curled against his back, as if unsure whether to push him away or pull him closer.


    Ricky smirked, feeling her body slowly give in, ensnared just as much by his touch as he was by hers.


    "If you''re going to whisper, you''ll have to get a little closer," Ricky chuckled, cradling her cheek in his palm as he gently lifted her head.


    But Lilith didn''t meet his gaze right away. Instead, she turned slightly, her lips forming a small pout, eyes cast to the side.


    Ricky''s thumb traced slow, soothing circles against her cool, porcelain skin, his touch light yet possessive.


    "Just tell me-"


    "I thought you forgot about me," Lilith finally muttered, her crimson eyes locking onto Ricky''s.


    "Wha-" Ricky furrowed his brow only to break out into a sudden laugh, brushing off her words, but the look on her face made him pause.


    Worried that Ricky had seemingly moved on, that he had found someone else, someone better.


    The thought gnawed at her, coiling deep within the pit of her stomach like a festering wound.


    Lilith had spent centuries perfecting the art of indifference, of feigning control, yet here she was, bare and vulnerable, clutching onto the fear that she had been nothing more than a fleeting indulgence to him.


    Her crimson eyes shimmered with something unspoken, a rare fragility buried beneath her usual confidence.


    For all her power, for all her arrogance, Lilith Drake was afraid of being forgotten.


    "Why would you say that? I could never forget that sexy ass of yours," Ricky joked, expecting to lighten the mood.


    But Lilith didn''t laugh, she simply averted her gaze, her expression clouded.


    "Because I''m an ungrateful b*tch who keeps leading you around and acting all pompous." Lilith muttered bitterly, despising her own actions.


    Ricky only laughed harder, shaking his head before pressing his forehead against hers which soothed her.


    "Lilith, if anyone''s being an ungrateful b*tch, it''s me. So relax, you''re fine, you''re hot, you''re sexy-" Ricky started off trying to reassure her, but before he knew it, his words had spiraled into listing all the ways he found her sexy.


    At first, it was heartfelt asLilith smiled, subtly touched by his words. But then Ricky really got into it, describing the sheer bliss of being inside her, and just like that, the tender moment twisted into one of sheer embarrassment.


    "S-STOP!" Lilith shrieked, her face burning as she tried to smother Ricky''s mouth with her hands, desperate to halt the flood of lecherous praise.


    "And the way you coil around me-" Ricky continued undeterred, grinning against her palms.


    Ahem


    Just as the atmosphere teetered between lust and embarrassment, a familiar throat-clearing cut through the tension.


    "Who''s the boner killer-Veredelt?" Ricky sneered, ready to spit out an insult, only for his expression to shift the moment he spotted Veredelt standing off to the side.


    "It''s a pleasure to see you again, Ricky." Veredelt nodded forward, choosing this moment to intervene as Ricky scratched his head.


    "Yeah, you too, but why are you ruining the mood?" Ricky asked, both pleased to see him again and irritated that his hand, which had been firmly gripping Lilith''s supple ass, was now empty.


    "Because an agreement was made between Lilith and me regarding our alliance." Veredelt stepped forward, striding down the red carpeted path as Ricky scrunched his eyebrows.


    "Wait, are you marrying this guy-"


    "NO!" Lilith yelled, stopping Ricky from continuing as Veredelt merely chuckled at her blunt refusal.


    "Ouch, my heart~" Veredelt laughed, showing he was capable of joking, which even made Ricky smirk a little as the vampire he knew had always been so uptight.


    "Would you be so kind as to give us the throne room?" Veredelt suddenly turned his head, looking at the assembled group of Alexander, Bucephalus, and Asteiron, all spectating from the sidelines.


    "Oh, don''t mind us." Alexander, munching on a sunflower seed while perched on Bucephalus''s nose, waved his paw dismissively as if giving them permission to continue.


    "Wait, you guys didn''t leave?" Ricky asked, looking at the three who he thought would drift off into the background but they all looked at each other.


    "No." They all said in unison, while Bucephalus let out a huff, making his stance clear.


    "Uh, alright." Ricky shrugged as he went along with it carelessly, trusting the two, minus the horse, with his secrets so far and seeing no reason they shouldn''t stay.


    "Very well, then let us move on." Veredelt nodded before turning to Ricky, gesturing with his elongated fingernails toward Lilith''s belly.


    "The nature of our alliance stems from the unborn twins residing in Miss Tepes'' stomach," Veredelt continued, his words immediately making Ricky''s eyebrows furrowed at first, wondering what his kids had to do with any of this, until the words finally registered as his expression shifted, brows shooting up.


    "Twins?!" Ricky turned to Lilith, who simply smiled and lowered her gaze.


    "Surprise~" Lilith awkwardly whispered, as if adding to the weight of the revelation as Ricky stood there for a moment, completely still.


    Clap


    Clap


    "Congratulations!" Asterion cheered from the side, glancing around only to realize he was the only one clapping.


    "Is this not cause for celebration?" he questioned himself, ears twitching in confusion.


    "At this point, Ricky has fathered so many children that the novelty has worn off," Alexander said dryly, shrugging his furry shoulders.


    The excitement of learning his disciple would have a child had dulled after the fifth time, then it grew quite old after the sixth one, and then the whole thing with the reunion tour really turned Alexander off to it.


    "That''s great, Lilith." Ricky laughed, genuinely excited as he yanked her back into a hug, thrilled at the thought of his family growing.


    Then, his eyes suddenly shot open.


    "Wait, why does your alliance involve my kids?" Ricky''s voice dropped, turning dangerous as the smile remained on his face, but his eyes were cold since this was the one thing that always made him touchy.


    "It is nothing nefarious, it''s just that with our factions issues relate to her father-"


    Veredelt was a sophisticated being, meticulous in his explanations, which was why he took the time to elaborate on how their two factions had collided in the first place.


    It all stemmed from the lingering envy and jealousy he had harbored toward her father, resentments that, unknowingly, had carried over to Lilith once she ascended to Dracula''s throne.


    Veredelt was vampire enough to admit that he had deliberately fractured her faction out of spite.


    However, it took time for him to realize that such division would only breed further internal conflict.


    True strength lay in unity, and for their kind to thrive, they had to stand as one.


    Though Veredelt was a firm believer in enriching vampires through knowledge, he also understood that the management of their race was a necessity.


    The pursuit of knowledge could only flourish within the framework of natural order.


    "It is why, over the past months, we have come to an understanding about our roles within the faction." Veredelt explained, his words highlighting how the negotiations weren''t as cut and dry as he led them on to believe.


    "Although I will relinquish the head position to Lilith, she has agreed to name me the godfather of your children, but there is one condition," Veredelt revealed, his words making Ricky raise an eyebrow at the statement.


    "Your approval."


    Simply put, Dracula''s name and influence had done irreparable damage to the vampire race, but this time, it had worked in Lilith''s favor.


    As his daughter, her claim to the throne of Vampire Queen was ironically much stronger than that of the centuries-old Veredelt, merely because of perception.


    Of course, Veredelt had the means to overturn this, but doing so would spark a civil war, disrupting his research.


    Instead, he chose not to rule, so long as he could guide the future ruler of the vampire kingdom, the very foundation on which their race would thrive.


    Hence, his request to be named the godfather of Ricky''s unborn twins.


    It was not just a symbolic gesture, but a calculated move, one that ensured his influence over the future of the vampire kingdom without directly seizing power.


    "I understand full well how sensitive blood ties can be, and I would not proceed without your consent. That is why I am here now," Veredelt continued, fully aware that it would be unwise to go behind the back of the very man who had slain Dracula in the first place.


    "Aye, I don''t know what a godfather means to you, but for me, it means a whole lot." Ricky frowned, his gaze heavy as he studied Veredelt.


    Within the Italian community, being a godfather wasn''t just some honorary title, it was a responsibility, a lifelong commitment to guiding the child, protecting them, and standing in as a second father if need be.


    It was for this very reason that Ricky had never named a godfather for any of his kids.


    To do so meant placing faith in someone to stand beside him, to be there through thick and thin, not just in times of peace but in moments of crisis.


    It wasn''t enough to simply be strong or knowledgeable.


    A godfather had to be someone who could uphold his family''s values, someone who could be relied on to steer his children in the right direction if Ricky himself was ever gone.


    The only ones he''d ever truly considered were Alexander and maybe Asterion, but they were already so deeply woven into his life, and by extension, his children''s, that the role felt redundant.


    They were family in every sense of the word, their presence constant.


    Handing that role to someone else, especially a vampire with his own ambitions, was not a decision Ricky could take lightly.


    "I understand-"


    "But do you?" Ricky asked, frowning a little deeper as Veredelt raised an eyebrow as the glint of the nearby light caught on his bald head.


    "I ain''t gonna be around for them all the time and when I''m gone, you''ll be in that role of a father." Ricky explained, letting go of Lilith and slowly descending the steps of the throne room.


    "Being a godfather isn''t just a title to me and my family, it''s a privilege." Ricky said, making sure Veredelt understood that this wasn''t some honorary label handed out to friends and relatives.


    It was a responsibility, a lifelong commitment that carried real weight.


    "We got history, sure, but not the kind forged in blood but through convenience." Ricky said, eventually standing in front of Veredelt who calmly returned his gaze.


    "So, if I ask you right now if you''ll look out for the best interests of my kid, what will you say?" Ricky asked, gesturing with his hands like a true Italian-American.


    "I''d say I would be the master I always wished to be when Varnae was mine." Veredelt adjusted himself, his expression unreadable.


    His words weren''t just a response, they carried a weight that cut deep.


    Varnae had treated Veredelt as nothing more than an assistant, an errand boy, a mere tool at his disposal.


    It was the root of Veredelt''s long-standing bitterness toward Dracula.


    Though some might see his request as a mere proxy for power, Veredelt knew better.


    He would never subject anyone, least of all a child, to the pain of being invisible to the one whose acknowledgment they craved most.


    "I would never allow anyone to endure the hollow pain I carry with me today, and I ask you to believe me." Veredelt placed a hand over his cold heart since for all that he was, he still felt.


    Everyone, whether kind or wicked, bore scars that ran deep, wounds they would never wish upon another.


    Some wounds healed over time, turning into distant aches that flared only when touched, while others festered, refusing to close, poisoning the soul with every passing moment.


    Veredelt''s wounds belonged to the latter.


    They were the kind that never truly faded, carved into him not just by cruelty but by neglect, by the agony of being unseen.


    It was not the lash of a whip or the sting of a blade that haunted him most, it was the absence of acknowledgment, the lingering shadow of never being enough for the master he once served.


    Maybe that was why Veredelt was so obsessed with the pursuit of knowledge, because if he knew everything, if he mastered every secret, every forgotten truth, then finally, he would be seen as capable.


    Not just by Varnae, not just by the ones who had dismissed him, but by himself.


    "Alright." Ricky shrugged, taking a couple of steps back, his lie detection not even twitching at Veredelt''s words.


    "Like I said before, I give you the benefit of the doubt and my trust, until you break it." Ricky''s voice was firm, but there was a weight behind his words.


    Ricky didn''t know a lot of things but knew that living in constant doubt, always expecting someone to stab him in the back, would wear a man down long before anyone else could.


    "Before you return, I actually wanted to discuss another matter with you." Veredelt continued, his voice cutting through the moment just as Ricky was about to pull Lilith back into his arms.


    "Raincheck-"


    "It''s about Merlyn."


    Those words were enough to halt Ricky in his tracks, stopping him on all fronts and turning him back towards Veredelt.


    "It''s important."


    If any lingering lightheartedness remained, it was snuffed out entirely by those words, leaving only whatever was to come.


    "I would prefer our conversation to remain between us, ensuring that no valuable information slips into prying hands," Veredelt stated, his words deliberate but not unsettling.


    "Lilith, would you give me a late-night tour of the castle? I would be eternally grateful," Asterion spoke up, seeing his cue to leave and completely unfazed by the distrust evident in Veredelt''s gaze.


    Lilith was about to refuse until she caught sight of Ricky''s expression, void of warmth, completely serious when staring at Veredelt.


    "Yes, this way." Lilith, though reluctant to leave, gestured to the side, leading the way as Asterion followed without hesitation.


    "I know how close you are, but if this gerbil is really like Alexander the Great as you say-"


    "Veredelt, the only person I trust more than Alexander is my pops. He''s fine." Ricky cut him off, his gaze shifting to Veredelt before settling on Alexander, who simply crossed his paws.


    "But the donkey is staying." Ricky scoffed, glaring at Bucephalus, who returned the glare with equal intensity.


    The tension between them lingered for a moment until the beast caught sight of Alexander''s serious expression.


    Understanding that this was not the time for antics, Bucephalus huffed but remained still, reining in whatever defiant impulse had stirred within him.


    "Very well, follow me."


    Without a second word, Veredelt beckoned them to follow, leading them through the shadowed corridors of Dracula''s castle.


    The deeper they went, the more the walls seemed to close in, the weight of centuries pressing down on them.


    He navigated through passages so ancient and obscured that even Lilith, who now ruled over this domain, had yet to discover them.


    They descended into the depths of the castle, spiraling downward into the unseen heart of this monstrous feat of architecture.


    Then, upon reaching a dimly lit room, Veredelt gestured with his open hand, the other still holding a lantern. He did not step inside, allowing Ricky to take the lead and without hesitation, Ricky entered, his sharp eyes scanning the space.


    The room was simple, almost too simple for the grandeur of Dracula''s castle.


    A single wooden table sat at its center, flanked by two chairs.


    No decorations adorned the walls, no remnants of past occupants lingered as it was a place designed for privacy.


    "What''s with all the secrecy, and why did we have to walk, like, twenty minutes to get here?" Ricky asked, striding toward the table before plopping down into one of the chairs. Alexander scurried onto the table beside him, his tiny paws tapping against the wood.


    "And why did you emphasize my name as if I had some connection to Merlyn?" Alexander wondered, catching the subtle hint as Veredelt closed the door behind him and turned around.


    "Because if you truly are Alexander the Great, as you claim, then you should already know who Merlyn is." Veredelt''s words carried a deeper meaning, his gaze fixed on Alexander, whose brows furrowed in contemplation.


    "What are these riddles you have untangled with your tongue, spit it out-"


    "Although history and the world knows him now as Merlyn, before, he was known as Myraddin, disciple of Gaea."


    Those words echoed from Veredelt''s mouth, and the moment they did, Alexander''s breath hitched.


    So much so that the mighty Alexander the Great, one of history''s greatest conquerors, a man who had once sought out new lands with relentless ambition, actually took a step back.


    "Alexander?" Ricky asked, shocked to see such an expression, such a shift in demeanor, from the usually composed conqueror.


    Ricky had never seen Alexander like this before as his chest rose and fell in rapid succession, each breath carrying the weight of something ancient, something buried.


    This wasn''t just shock, it was an old wound, one that had festered in the depths of his soul, untouched for centuries.


    A trauma so deeply ingrained that even now, it gripped him with an iron hold.


    But it wasn''t from the name Myraddin, but Gaea.


    "What the hell is happening? What are you doing?" Ricky snapped, yanking Veredelt''s collar, convinced he was using some kind of magic on Alexander.


    The reason was simple yet staggering since Ricky had never, not once, seen Alexander like this.


    Not in the face of death, not when staring down the barrel of a gun, not even when the unknown loomed over them like a specter waiting to consume them whole.


    Alexander had always been unwavering, larger than life, a force that pressed forward with absolute certainty.


    But now?


    Now, that same unshakable presence was trembling, his breath unsteady, his body recoiling as if some buried wound had been ripped open.


    It wasn''t fear of pain or death, Ricky knew Alexander didn''t flinch at those things.


    This was something else, this was vulnerability, raw and unabashed, a crack in the foundation of a legend.


    And for the first time, Ricky saw him not as a conqueror, not as an immortal force of will, but as a man.


    "I see," Veredelt murmured knowingly, his gaze shifting to the trembling gerbil as this was a part of Alexander''s past that had remained hidden, until now.


    "It seems I have stepped into territory not my own, let me rephrase-"


    "No, what the f*ck did you say to make Alexander upset-"


    "Ricky."


    "Alexander, this guy-"


    "Please, let him continue. Do not waste your worries on me." Alexander''s voice, though steady, carried a weight Ricky had never heard before as it wasn''t just insistence, it was a plea, a command wrapped in restraint.


    With a slow breath, Ricky let go, his fingers slipping away from Veredelt''s collar as he didn''t say anything, just stepped back, watching.


    "Just who the f*ck is this guy, Veredelt? Spill it." Ricky sighed, plopping back down onto the chair, his patience wearing thin.


    Veredelt calmly adjusted his formal wear, smoothing out the fabric as if collecting his thoughts as his gaze flickered toward Alexander, then back to Ricky, as if weighing just how much to reveal.


    "Merlyn is not merely the grand wizard known throughout history but the son of the fallen Elder God, Chthon," Veredelt revealed, his voice cutting through the air like a blade.


    "The f*ck kinda family tree is that?" Ricky''s brows furrowed, scoffing only to suddenly realize something when he said fallen.


    Alexander, however, remained silent. His breathing had steadied, but his body was still tense, his tiny paws clenched against the table''s surface.


    There was no refutation, no scoffing, just quiet, unsettling contemplation.


    "Wait, what do you mean by ''fallen Elder God''?" Ricky suddenly realized something, his gaze snapping toward Veredelt.


    Veredelt stared at him for a long moment before closing his eyes, as if choosing his next words carefully.


    "Legends state-"


    Veredelt Narration:


    The corruption of the inevitable fall of Elder Gods stemmed from their prolonged existence and unchecked power.


    Born from the Demiurge, they were meant to be forces of creation, but over time, many of them became consumed by their own hunger for dominance and power.


    This descent into darkness led them to prey upon one another, their divine essence warping into monstrous, demonic forms.


    Their battles raged across the primordial Earth, causing devastation on an unimaginable scale.


    This period, known as the Great Cataclysm, was a time of chaos where the corrupted Elder Gods, now demons, engaged in an apocalyptic war that threatened to consume the very fabric of existence.


    Their unchecked destruction disrupted the natural order, poisoning the land and sky with eldritch energies.


    It was then that Demogorge, a cosmic entity of balance and retribution, rose to cleanse the world.


    Acting as a divine executioner, Demogorge hunted the fallen gods, devouring them one by one, their screams echoing across creation.


    While most were consumed by Demogorge''s wrath, a few managed to escape.


    Set and Chthon, the most cunning of the corrupted, fled into other dimensions, retreating into the shadows where they would bide their time and plot their return.


    Labeled with the new titles of Nethergods, they seeped their essence into the void and its various wicked realms, becoming eldritch sovereigns of darkness and corruption.


    Stripped of their dominion over Earth, they twisted the fabric of the planes they now inhabited, molding them into infernal kingdoms where their influence festered.


    Gaea and Oshtur, the only Elder Gods who had resisted corruption, stood as guardians against their return, ensuring that the horrors of the past would never again threaten the world.


    Or at least, that is what is told by the victors.


    But history has a funny way of being skewed by those who control it, so it would be wise to take that foundation with a grain of salt.


    The victors write the legends, and the truth is often buried beneath myth and manipulation.


    Nonetheless, their feud had all but destroyed my homeland, leaving nothing but echoes of a once-thriving world.


    The clash of the Elder Gods reshaped existence itself, tearing through the fabric of reality and ushering in an era of upheaval.


    The very foundations of the earth were shattered, continents sundered, and the skies burned with divine wrath.


    In its aftermath, many things were left rearranged, twisted by the chaos that followed as one of those lingering enigmas was the conundrum of Myraddin, the bastard son of Chthon.


    Although he was conceived before Chthon''s full descent into corruption, Myyrdrain''s very essence bore the stain of his father''s taint.


    His existence teetered on the edge of something eldritch and something not but nonetheless, it couldn''t be left unchecked.


    Sensing the growing imbalance, Gaea intervened.


    What exactly she did remains a mystery, but whatever her actions, they starved Myraddin of his inevitable transformation into a full-fledged eldritch being.


    Instead of letting him spiral into the same abyss as his father, she took him in as her apprentice, binding his existence to something more stable, something that could be guided rather than left to fester in the dark.


    Under Gaea''s tutelage, Myraddin learned to wield his power with restraint, yet the echoes of his origins never fully faded.


    However, something transpired between Myraddin and Gaea that led to an irreparable rift between them, an event shrouded in mystery but inextricably tied to the Greek Pantheon and, of course, a certain mortal.


    "Eventually, he took on the name Merlyn and departed from his home to forge his own legend, or so the stories claim," Veredelt concluded, his gaze settling on Alexander, who had turned his eyes to the side in quiet contemplation.


    "So, is Merlyn a f*cking god?" Ricky was the first to break the silence, glancing between the two as if wondering why he was the only one asking.


    "From my knowledge, no. The only thing that remains of his godly heritage is his body. But if I had to compare, he is more akin to Asterion, who, coincidentally, also belongs to the Greek pantheon." Veredelt merely chuckled as his words bore down on the gerbil, who remained deathly silent.


    "Great~" Ricky sighed heavily, leaning back in the old chair that creaked.


    "It''s why, although I know you''ll be against it, I urge you not to partake in the scheme Merlyn has concocted," Veredelt said, his tone heavy with warning asRicky''s gaze snapped to him, his brows scrunching in confusion.


    "Why not-"


    "Because, with the endless amount of studies and knowledge at his disposal, even I do not engage with that man," Veredelt said, though his words carried a tinge of something else, greed.


    Ricky was about to say something but stopped, a slow smile creeping onto his face instead.


    "You sly f*ck, you''re baiting me." Ricky laughed, actually seeing through Veredelt''s words the old vampire looked a bit surprised at this assumption.


    "You totally want me to fight and beat the living sh*t outta Merlyn so you can get your hands on his knowledge and jack up the value of your hoards," Ricky accused, narrowing his eyes at Veredelt.


    He had a sneaking suspicion the vampire was deliberately making Merlyn seem even more formidable just to increase the worth of his own treasures.


    "Well, I wouldn''t be against obtaining his knowledge, especially on, oh, I don''t know, his Chimera studies?" Veredelt admitted with a sly smile, his fangs peeking through in a guilty yet unapologetic shrug.


    "For all the convincing I get around this f*cking supernatural world, at least I know we can always make a deal," Ricky chuckled, eyeing Veredelt, who merely shrugged before finally taking a seat at the table, signaling the start of their negotiation.


    "Well, my hoards are far beneath the quality of Merlyn''s Chimeras, and while I take a more pragmatic approach in the development of beings, I wouldn''t be against improving them." Veredelt admitted, leaning forward on the table with a gaze that told of countless centuries of deals.


    "I''m willing to give you complete access to my hoards on the condition that the Chimera studies remain in my possession," Veredelt stated smoothly, conjuring a white bone flute that reeked of death in his hand that called on his hoards.


    "Of course, I won''t monopolize my findings, I''ll share them with your Luciano family and Lilith." Veredelt extended his hand, his gaze unwavering as he watched Ricky narrow his eyes, sensing that this offer was almost too good to be true.


    "And?"


    "And I would like all of the leftover Chimera''s not killed." Veredelt''s words made Ricky''s frown deepen as he really leaned back to think about it.


    "Ah, f*ck~," Ricky groaned, suddenly remembering that the coven was literally here to kill the Chimeras and free their ancestors.


    "I can''t. The coven members have this whole spiritual thing about wiping out all the Chimeras," Ricky sighed, rubbing his temples before looking at Veredelt, who simply nodded, contemplating something.


    "Then, as long as your involvement isn''t detected, would it be fine if I take the leftover Chimeras?" Veredelt asked suddenly, watching the look in Ricky''s eyes, the kind that said he really didn''t give a damn about them at all.


    "Listen, after it''s all said and done, everyone''s busy celebrating what would be our victory, and you just so happen to slip them away, I''ll turn a blind eye." Ricky leaned onto the table, locking eyes with Veredelt, who held out his hand.


    "But if you get caught, I''m throwing you under the bus," Ricky added, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips as he shook the old vampire''s hand.


    "I wouldn''t have it any other way."


    Soon afterward, the meeting and subsequent deal concluded with both of them getting what they wanted, but as Ricky stood up and turned to leave, something clicked in his mind.


    A nagging thought, something he''d overlooked in the heat of the conversation, began to settle uneasily in his gut.


    ''Where''s Alexander?''


    Got it! Let me try again, keeping it simpler:


    That thought gnawed at Ricky''s mind as the gerbil disappeared without warning after that whole conversation, leaving him somewhat shaken.


    He scanned the area, looking everywhere for him, making sure he was alright.


    After a few minutes, he finally spotted him, standing by the edge of the high-rise, staring out over the view.


    "Aye, Alexander, you okay, man?" Ricky asked, his footsteps crunching on the cold, wet grass as he approached. The gerbil seemed so lost in thought.


    "I''m fine, Ricky. I simply wish to be left alone." Alexander replied, his gaze fixed on the vast expanse ahead, the night stretching endlessly before him as he overlooked the view from the cliff.


    "Come on man, I saw how-"


    "Please." Alexander closed his eyes, a genuine plea in his voice. Ricky opened his mouth to say something, but after a moment of hesitation, he simply nodded, turning and walking away, leaving the gerbil alone.


    The quiet of the night pressed in around them, the wind rustling the grass, but in Alexander''s mind, the silence was deafening.


    As his eyes closed, all he could see were the faces of his victims, the ones he had ruthlessly conquered, their screams echoing like an unrelenting hum in his ears.


    It was a form of tetanus, a constant pain in his psyche, yet something else lingered, something worse.


    A haunting tune, a lullaby foreign yet familiar, crept into his thoughts.


    It was not the sound of violence, nor the rush of power he had once craved, but something more insidious.


    It made him feel a cold dread, a chill deeper than any of the lives he had taken.


    The tune clawed at the edges of his mind, making him question whether he had ever truly escaped the horrors.


    It was the haunting melody of his past.


    Sigh


    Ricky stood on his terrace, looking down at Alexander, who seemed to be lost in time, staring off into the night as though he could see something no one else could.


    Ricky''s mind churned with all the words he wanted to say, all the comfort he wanted to offer but he knew better than to push.


    He remembered how it felt back then, how lost he had been, how broken, and how Alexander had never pressed him for details.


    He had never asked about the sh*t Ricky carried the past that haunted him.


    Instead, Alexander had always been there, offering his advice when needed, giving him a shoulder to lean on without a single question.


    So Ricky stayed quiet, watching from above as he wasn''t going to force Alexander to open up.


    Not now, not when he wasn''t ready, he had his own battles to face, and Ricky understood that.


    He wasn''t going to pry, he''d be patient, just like Alexander had been for him.


    He''d wait, and when the time came, whether Alexander was ready to speak or had to face it alone, Ricky would be there.


    Ricky finally understood that it wasn''t about pushing someone to heal, it was about letting them do it on their own terms.


    "Ricky~" Lilith''s voice purred out behind him, signaling his head to snap back to the gorgeous woman standing at his doorway.


    Her body was a masterpiece, the pale skin almost glowing against the black lingerie she wore, which clung to her curves and shimmered under the dim light.


    The sheer cloth that draped across her body parted at her protruding stomach, accentuating her form in a way that was both seductive and graceful that highlighted that her body had been ever so slightly marked by him.


    "Are you ready for your proper send off~" Lilith purred, attempting to sound as confident as her attire suggested, but the deep flush creeping up her neck betrayed her composure.


    But it was that contrast between her words and her bashful expression made the moment all the more alluring.


    "Oh, yeah~"

 Chapter 176 - 169: Proper Send Off (R18)

    Chapter 176 - 169: Proper Send Off (R18)


    However, instead of a graceful seduction or a smooth transition into intimacy, Lilith found herself fumbling.


    It wasn''t nervousness about what was about to happen, no, she was more than ready, but rather the uncertainty of how to respond to Ricky''s words.


    She had done this dance countless times before, Ricky would say something cheesy, she''d counter with something prideful, he''d push further to embarrass her, she''d deny it, and the game would continue.


    But now, the distance between them has thrown everything off balance.


    She hadn''t seen Ricky for so long, and the reunion had simmered in her mind for days, turning into a perfect fantasy she had played out over and over.


    Yet, when the moment finally arrived, she froze.


    At first, she let out a small, awkward chuckle, searching for something, anything, to add to the moment, to make it feel natural.


    But as the seconds passed, she spiraled deeper into her own head, overthinking every movement, every word, until she felt like she was stumbling over the very confidence she had meant to exude.


    Ricky watched this unfold, his amusement growing as Lilith cycled through her struggle.


    She''d raise her head, part her lips as if to say something, only to hesitate, close them again, and glance away in thought.


    Then, after a brief pause, she''d turn back to him, ready to try again only to repeat the entire process.


    It was like watching someone reboot in real time.


    "You good, Lilith?" Ricky asked, raising an eyebrow at this bumbling vampire queen who scoffed at the thought.


    "Me? Good? I''ve never felt gooder-better! I''ve never felt better." Lilith said while waving her hand, only to use something that wasn''t even a word and quickly correct herself.


    "Well, you look gooder." Ricky chuckled, using the made-up word as Lilith gritted her teeth then sighed heavily.


    Sigh


    Ricky sort of sighed, thinking he was going to get his much anticipated send-off only to see Lilith crumble.


    "Come here." Ricky gestured, spreading his arms open. Lilith turned away with a slight pout, stubbornly avoiding his gaze.


    "Come on, bring it in." Ricky wiggled his fingers, coaxing her forward. Her frown deepened, but after a moment of hesitation, she huffed and shuffled toward him, her steps slow and reluctant.


    As soon as she was close enough, he wrapped his arms around Lilith, slithering her into his embrace and pulling her into his chest.


    "Oh my sexy little vampire queen, how I missed you." Ricky laughed at his own words, resting his chin atop her head.


    Lilith remained silent, closing her eyes as she breathed in his scent, the one that had long faded from the shirt she''d stolen after his battle with Dracula, her father.


    "Come on, say you missed me back. Come on." Ricky teased, purposely rocking Lilith back and forth as she simply ducked her head, refusing to give him the satisfaction.


    "Come on~" Ricky hummed, playfully guiding them both toward his bed until they collapsed onto it.


    He shifted onto his side, his gaze settling on Lilith as she looked down with a neutral expression.


    "I thought you forgot about me." Lilith admitted honestly, setting aside her usual queenly demeanor for a moment of raw truth.


    "How could I forget about you-"


    "I haven''t talked to you in six months, Ricky, not even a letter," Lilith said gently, her red eyes lifting to meet him.


    Ricky opened his mouth to respond but quickly shut it, realizing he had no excuse worth offering.


    "Yeah, that was a little sh*tty on my part." Ricky admitted, scratching his chin since for all that he was and trying to be, he was still imperfect.


    This was the main problem with having a lot of women tangled in your grasp, time.


    You could shower them with gold, drape them in the finest silks, and place the rarest jewels in their hands, yet none of it would ever compare to what they truly desired: your time.


    And that was the one thing Ricky had the least of.


    Women could be bought, but their affection and love couldn''t be maintained on wealth alone.


    They wanted moments, stolen glances across a crowded room, whispered words in the dead of night, the assurance that, even in his absence, they were still on his mind.


    But time was fickle, and Ricky was only one man.


    It wasn''t just a matter of managing expectations.


    The women in Ricky''s life weren''t mindless ornaments existing solely within his orbit.


    They had their own ambitions, their own desires that didn''t begin and end with him.


    They weren''t just waiting around to bear his bastards and claim a place in his shadow.


    No, they had their own stories, their own lives to build.


    And yet, despite it all, despite their own independence and their own pursuits, they still wanted him.


    I think it had come to a certain point where Ricky had to ask himself why he was doing all of this.


    Why did he put so much pressure on himself to succeed?


    Why did he claw his way up, refusing to settle for anything less than power?


    Why did he take on every burden, every responsibility, even when they threatened to crush him?


    And the answer was simple.


    He wanted to be wanted.


    At a certain point, when you stop running away to look around, you have to truly come to terms with the people around you, but even then, it was so much more than that.


    He didn''t want to just be respected, not just feared, but wanted in a way that went beyond his name, beyond what he could offer, beyond what he was building.


    He wanted the people close to him to look at him and need him, not just as a leader, not just as a provider, but as something more.


    Because deep down, beneath all the power and the endless hunger for control, Ricky was still that same boy who had learned too early that being wanted was never guaranteed.


    That love, admiration, loyalty, wasn''t certain just because of simple familial ties.


    Sigh


    Ricky just sighed, resting his head onto Lilith who lowered her gaze back to his chest, her fingers idly tracing patterns against his shirt.


    "After this whole stupid thing with that jackass Merlyn, I''ll try to put in more effort but you gotta meet me halfway." Ricky first said, only to flip the table as Lilith raised her gaze back up.


    "I did, I sent both-"


    "I never got them. And if you''re talking about Bonnie and Clyde, the Bonnie and Clyde that my pops never shuts up about, that''s not my fault," Ricky laughed, finally realizing that the infamous duo splashed across the newspapers were none other than those love-struck criminals.


    In the original timeline, Bonnie and Clyde weren''t supposed to begin their spree until after 1934.


    But that was because, two years ago, Dracula would have burrowed deeper into the Nazi regime, forcing Lilith to retreat to the United States to consolidate her power.


    Yet, even with the shift in the timeline which had led to Dracula''s death, those two had still found a way to stir up America and Ricky''s involvement had unknowingly delayed their rampage, not stopped it.


    "I know but-"


    "Hey, woah, I''m not blaming you~" Ricky cooed, laughing as Lilith''s frustration seeped through. As annoying as Bonnie and Clyde were, they were still the two people she trusted most.


    "I''m just saying, let''s both do better. That''s all." Ricky smiled, pressing his forehead against hers as Lilith exhaled, her lips twitching before she finally smiled back.


    "Sometimes, I wonder if our entire relationship is just built on selfish whims," Lilith admitted with a sad chuckle. For all the attachment she had grown toward Ricky, their foundation felt shallow.


    "I was your escape, and you were my stepping stone to power-"


    "Who cares~" Ricky groaned, rolling her pregnant form on top of him so that she lay against his chest.


    "The only thing that matters is us, right now. And to anyone who thinks otherwise, f*ck them." Ricky chuckled, caressing Lilith''s cheek as she leaned into his touch, her eyes fluttering shut.


    "Are you not mad at me for using you-"


    "Aye, we used each other, repeatedly, so who cares?" Ricky shrugged, breaking down their original entanglement with simple honesty, because that''s exactly how he saw it.


    Although this had gotten him into countless problems before, it was also one of his best traits, a double-edged sword.


    He didn''t see life as a game of three-dimensional chess.


    While others obsessed over hidden meanings and ulterior motives, Ricky accepted things as they were, moving forward without hesitation.


    "Now, do you feel a little better?" Ricky asked, smiling ear to ear at that little smidge of a smile budding on her face.


    "A little, thank you," Lilith admitted, her voice softer than usual.


    For all that she was, queenly, powerful, untouchable, she was still hormonal from the pregnancy, emotions running high on top of the stress of managing her faction and hearing Ricky say those things really helped her calm down, even if it was just a little.


    "Now, are you ready for your proper send-off~" Lilith purred, repeating the same words from earlier, but this time, they dripped with newfound confidence.


    She began crawling up his chest in a slow, deliberate manner, each movement steeped in seduction.


    "Oh, yeah-" Ricky couldn''t even finish his thought before Lilith''s crotchless panties suddenly smothered his words.


    Without warning, she boldly took the first move, pressing her soft, perky cheeks against his face and settling herself atop him.


    It was a swift, audacious act, but despite her assertiveness, Lilith''s face burned with a maddening blush.


    She had never done this before, and though she carried herself with boldness, it was clear she was using it to mask her inexperience.


    ''Be brave, be bold, be brave, be bold, you''re the queen of your faction-'' Lilith continued to say, reaching for Ricky''s dragon still nestled in the cave that was his underwear.


    "Ah~"


    A soft, supple moan escaped Lilith''s red lips, her head tilting back as a shudder ran through her body.


    Whatever words she had thought were lost, swallowed by the sudden, electrifying sensation of Ricky''s tongue.


    If Ricky had to die a suffocating death, he much preferred all his airways to be buried beneath the luscious, ripe curves of a busty vampire, her scent intoxicating, her warmth consuming him entirely.


    It was almost as if Ricky was suicidal with the way he wrapped his arms around her plush thighs, pulling her even deeper into his face, as if suffocation beneath her was the only death worth dying.


    "Wait, Ricky I-Ah~" Lilith tried to say something, only for her own moan to rudely interrupt her words.


    "Ha~" Lilith exhaled, her breath hitching as Ricky''s tongue traced the edges of her walls with slow, deliberate strokes.


    Just as she adjusted to the sensation, he let it drop down, teasing the sensitive lining of her clit with a featherlight flick before plunging back in, sending a shiver through her body.


    However, for all that Lilith was inside; soft, warm, and oh so sensitive, she was still prideful.


    As if not wanting to be outdone, the regal form of Lilith burst forward as she mustered up the strength to lower her head.


    Untucking that sleeping dragon, the one that lurked on the outline of his underwear, Lilith finally unmasked it as it flopped out before her.


    Grabbing it firmly, it twitched in defiance as she tucked some stray hairs behind her ear before opening her lustful mouth and outstretching her tongue.


    Ricky shivered, feeling the wet, intoxicating glide of her tongue as it slathered his tip with warm saliva, swirling in slow, deliberate circles while her fingers traced firm, teasing strokes along the base.


    It was as if two opposing forces were warring for dominance over his cock, her hand furiously stroking up and down with a desperate, relentless pace, while her tongue moved in stark contrast, slow and indulgent, savoring every inch of his tip.


    Then, just as the heat threatened to consume him, her lips sealed around his tip, locking him into a delicate torment as her tongue traced a deliberate, clockwise circle, sending shivers up his spine with the subtle, maddening pleasure of a teasing rimjob.


    Then it became a sort of spiteful sixty-nine, a silent battle of dominance masked beneath the guise of mutual pleasure.


    Each tried to outdo the other, tongues and hands working feverishly, not just to satisfy but to overwhelm.


    What started as an intimate exchange spiraled into an escalating war of lust, neither willing to be the first to relent, both tumbling further down this intoxicating rabbit hole of a fervent, unrelenting tug of war between fellatio and cunninglingus.


    "Ah!" Lilith moaned out deeply, her voice trembling as Ricky''s tongue flicked with precision, like a pen signing its name in bold strokes across the most sensitive part of her being.


    Lilith was on the brink, her body trembling as Ricky''s cock pulsed beneath her but at this pace, it wouldn''t be enough and with a sudden, decisive move, she shifted.


    "Huh?" Ricky barely had time to react, his tongue still extended mid-performance, one worthy of a golden globe for best performance, only had his acceptance speech abruptly cut off, leaving his tongue hanging in the air.


    Then, like a slow, deliberate crawl, Lilith dragged her ass across Ricky''s chest like some sort of snail, slow and methodic, leaving a slick trail of arousal in her wake.


    Her movements were unhurried, teasing, as she gave him the show of a lifetime before her pregnant form rose with a sultry grace.


    Lifting herself up, she guided his cock, still firmly in her grip, to the threshold where, once she descended, their beautiful creations would take root.


    CLAP


    It was like a jolt of electricity, instantaneous and overwhelming, as Lilith impaled herself onto Ricky''s cock, burying him completely inside her.


    Her ass smacked down against his chest in a resounding clap, as if applauding their fevered reunion.


    Then came a moment of stillness, a charged pause where the only movement was the subtle jiggle of her perky ass, rippling from the impact.


    It was as if time held its breath, allowing their connection to seep into both of their beings, slow and intoxicating, before the inevitable storm of pleasure ensued.


    "AH~" Lilith beautifully moan, feeling him once again nestle in her insides as she clamped down on him, giving him a welcoming hug for his return.


    "F**********ck~" Ricky groaned, his head pressing back against the wall as that tight, intoxicating grip wrapped around his cock in a warm, suffocating, and relentless grip, like a vice that refused to let go.


    Gritting his teeth against the strain, Ricky turned his gaze back, his eyes locking onto Lilith perched atop him in reverse cowgirl, still struggling to adjust to the way his cock stretched every inch of her once more.


    Her body trembled, her eyes rolling back as her teeth clenched together, desperately rummaging through the fragments of her sanity in search of control, only to falter, succumbing to the pleasure sinking deep into her very bones.


    Biting his lip, Ricky reached out, one hand gripping her slim waist while the other latched onto her perky, pale ass cheek, kneading it possessively.


    "Mhmmmmmm~" Lilith hummed, tilting her head slightly backward, catching the way Ricky''s eyes were utterly enthralled by the sight of her backside.


    Pulling her right ass cheek to the side, Ricky''s eyes drank in the sight of her glistening lips stretched taut around his cock, a shimmering stream of nectar trailing down his skin and staining the sheets beneath them.


    But his focus sharpened, laser-locked onto that untouched, quivering little hole, twitching ever so slightly beneath his gaze.


    His thumb brushed against it, featherlight, tracing slow, teasing circles as he felt Lilith''s body tense in anticipation.


    Then, as if to break the spell of his locked-on gaze, Lilith leaned forward, planting her hands firmly on his legs for support.


    Lifting her hips, she revealed his cock, now glistening with her slick arousal, each inch coated in the evidence of her pleasure.


    Her eyes rolled back on the way up, like the slow, suspenseful ascent of a roller coaster, only to come crashing down in one swift, ruthless motion, slamming him back inside her.


    Clap


    "Ah~"


    Clap


    "Ah~"


    Clap


    "Ah~"


    Her ass furiously slapped down on his chest once more before her two perky asscheeks collided together in a vicious clap, repeating over and over that vicious cycle that sent waves of pleasure rippling through them both.


    Each descent was a brutal collision of heat and desperation, her voice rising in breathless cries that synced with the rhythmic smacks of flesh against flesh.


    Ricky''s grip tightened, fingers digging into the plushness of her waist as he met her movements with upward thrusts, his mind drowning in the intoxicating sensation of her tightening strangling his cock.


    They had already fulfilled the purpose of what two fertile beings should do in procreating, bearing the almost ripe fruits of life within her stomach, and yet still, they acted like such wild animals driven by something far beyond necessity but pure, unrelenting desire.


    Their bodies moved with an insatiable hunger, as if proving to each other that their sex wasn''t just about creating life but about consuming it, reveling in the primal, raw mindf*cking pleasure that bound them together in the first place.


    Lilith''s nails scraped against his thighs as she arched, her breath hitching, her swollen belly shifting slightly with every downward slam.


    All while Ricky''s hands roamed her curves, gripping, guiding, worshipping the very body that had already taken him to heaven and back.


    Her pussy squelched everytime she released her hold on his cock, lifting her hips upwards and releasing the suction like hold she had on him.


    The wet, mushy sound echoed whenever she reached the peak of his veiny, throbbing cock which was doused in her drooling liquids that all but slammed back down with a wet, obscene noise that echoed through the room.


    "Ha-Ah~" Lilith''s breath hitched with the motion, taking a breath in only for the moan that rippled across her mind and body to eject it back out.


    ''This is it, this is it~'' Lilith repeated in her mind, reveling in the fantasy she had longed for, being on top, in control, holding all the power.


    Yet, even if she willed it, her hips refused to obey, betraying her to the relentless waves of pleasure surging through her body.


    But in reality, her body betrayed her, moving on instinct, driven by the raw pleasure coursing through her veins rather than the domineering desire of her fantasies.


    She tried to slow down, to savor the moment, but the way Ricky''s cock filled her, stretched her, claimed her, it was all but impossible to stop.


    Her hands trembled as they gripped his legs tighter, nails digging into his skin, her breath coming out in ragged, needy gasps.


    "Haaah, R-Ricky~" Lilith moaned, voice laced with desperation, her head tilting back as another wave of pleasure rocked through her as she felt herself get close.


    Ricky, the one laying below her, was slowly losing his mind over feeling her tight walls milk him with every stroke.


    Ricky truly wanted her to have this moment, to give up his need to always be in control and instead reveling in this body that had already taken him to heaven and back.


    But that single utterance of his name always seemed to shatter the last thread of restraint as the hand that had been gripping her ass for dear life slid to her hips.


    "Ricky?" Lilith''s voice wavered as she felt his touch shift, his rough hands wrapping firmly around her waist before she was slowly lifted up.


    CLAP


    Her entire body short-circuited in the clap of her ass, a sharp gasp caught in her throat as she froze, her mind barely registering the sensation before it consumed her, his cock slamming back into her with a force that sent ripples of pleasure crashing through every fiber of her being.


    GASP


    Lilith felt choked, caught between the desperate need for air and the overwhelming urge to let the world know exactly how this felt.


    The collision of both desires left her breathless, her body trembling as pleasure surged through her veins like liquid fire.


    It was then that the tempo completely changed.


    CLAP


    Ricky''s grip tightened, fingers digging into Lilith''s soft flesh as he took full control, his strength dictating the pace.


    CLAP


    Gone was the languid rhythm she had set, the steady rise and fall that allowed her to bask in her dominance.


    CLAP


    In its place came a relentless, punishing force as his hips snapping upward, his hands dragging her down to meet every brutal thrust.


    CLAP


    Ringing out in every way shape or form that unknowingly shattered the very walls she had built up around their union and this text.


    "A-A-......A-A-A-" Lilith''s breath gasped, her moans shattering into fragmented whimpers as her body quivered from the sheer intensity.


    Feeling his cock slither into her being, how it made her thighs burn, her core clenched, and how with every deep, deliberate stroke, it sent her spiraling further into bliss.


    The power she had relished only moments ago slipped from her grasp, stolen by Ricky''s raw, unyielding determination to fill her to the brim with his cum.


    GASP


    "F*ck~"


    A strangled gasp tore from her throat as he drove himself into her, filling her completely, and stretching her in a way that even made Ricky groan out at how tortuous and divine it felt.


    The claps of flesh meeting flesh resounded in a sloppy, wet sound that stunk up the room with their bodily fluids rubbing against each other until a moist smell reverberated between them.


    "Oh-"


    CLAP


    "Oh-"


    CLAP


    "Oh-"


    CLAP


    Lilith had forgotten that broken feeling Ricky induced upon her, steadily giving him a tireless melody of a broken record as her entire body was crumbling under his cock just like the first time.


    She couldn''t even find the strength to resist, her hands sliding from his legs to the sheets beneath them and seemingly folding like a lawn chair, grasping desperately for stability as the pleasure overwhelmed her senses.


    Her vision blurred, her mouth fell open, but no words came that wasn''t tormented by breathy, broken moans that barely scraped past her lips.


    It felt like Ricky wasn''t even letting her breathe, wasn''t letting her think but trying to absolutely consume her, drilling that message of owning every inch of her body, pushing her past every limit she thought she had built up in their past experience.


    Lilith felt her mind fragment, her walls crumbling under the sheer force of him as she had wanted to be in control, she had wanted to lead, but now she could only take what he gave her, and by god was she drowning in it.


    Ricky felt himself all but reach the peak after seeing her body slump forward, her strength utterly drained.


    Her legs spread apart in a perfect split atop his cock, her thighs spasming with every iteration of their loins slapping into one another.


    Her arms had given out and the only function was her fingers which gripped the sheets above her as if to hold onto something, anything, while her breaths came in short, ragged gasps.


    The only thing keeping her from collapsing entirely was the swell of her pregnant stomach, propped up against him as she shuddered with each deep, deliberate thrust.


    It was the perfect sight, for the perfect feeling, and the perfect moment to let it all out inside to top off this perfect entanglement.


    CLAP


    "There we go~" Ricky grunted, impaling her onto him for what seemed to be the final iteration as his balls, the two very things that had been churning his cum, release it all out as his tip sprayed his milky, warm release inside of her being.


    "Ha-uh-AHHHHH~" Lilith''s body spasmed, her breath catching in her throat as the molten heat of his release flooded her depths.


    Her eyes fluttered, rolling back as a broken moan escaped her lips, the sensation tipping her over the edge into one last, uncontrollable climax.


    Her walls clenched around him in a desperate, greedy embrace, milking every drop he had to offer


    His cock pulsed inside her, filling her to the brim, the warmth spreading through her core like a brand, a permanent mark of this moment.


    Lilith''s body arched up, the stimulation of her climax breathing life into her being only for her body to slump forward, spent, and her hands weakly gripping his thighs for balance while she felt his thick heat pooling inside of her


    "Man, I really needed this~" Ricky chuckled, almost relieved to get someone, anyone to send him off in such a pleasant manner.


    Seeing her not respond, Ricky just smiled, running a hand down the curve of her spine before slowly seeping it onto the other side and settling it possessively onto her stomach.


    Biting his lip, there was something about Lilith carrying a part of him inside of her that wasn''t just his cum that, weirdly enough, turned him on.


    Ricky''s fingers traced over the swell of her stomach, his touch lingering, almost reverent.


    In a weird way, she was carrying something that wasn''t just his legacy, but a part of him that was his in a way no one else could ever be.


    Lilith, still catching her breath, shivered at the way his hands roamed, as if memorizing every inch of her that belonged to him now.


    "Wait-"


    "Come here~" Ricky cooed, gently turning her to face him. He pressed a kiss to her cheek, then her neck, losing himself in the way she glowed under the moonlight.


    Huff


    Huff


    "Wait~" Lilith moaned breathlessly in his ear, still trying to steady herself.


    But Ricky was relentless, tracing a path of kisses from her flushed cheek, down the curve of her neck, only to return upward, savoring every inch of her.


    Ricky hummed against her skin, savoring her flavor and the way she trembled in his hold, her breath hitching with each lingering kiss as her walls twitched around him at every utterance.


    His hands, warm and steady, roamed over her flushed body, fingertips tracing idle patterns across her waist before settling on her swollen belly.


    "Beautiful." Ricky murmured, unresponsive to what she had said as his voice thick with something deeper than lust.


    Admiration, something that sent a ripple down Lilith''s spine and completely caught off guard as her face blushed red.


    "Stop~" Lilith mumbled, her body utterly spent, turning away in a weak attempt to escape.


    But Ricky''s hold was unrelenting, his arms coiling around her like an anaconda ensnaring its prey.


    "One more time, one more~" Ricky murmured, his lips pressing featherlight kisses against her skin, yet his eyes burned with something dangerous, something that made her stomach twist in anticipation.


    Lilith frowned, averting her gaze, knowing she wouldn''t be able to refuse if she looked at him any longer.


    But Ricky was already there, capturing her in his sight once more.


    "O-Okay, but be gentle, please." Lilith''s voice was barely above a whisper, thick with embarrassment, her forehead lowering to rest against his shoulder as if conceding her own shameful desire.


    Slowly, her arms wrapped around his neck like a silent, unspoken gesture of permission to go ahead.


    "I love you~" Ricky suddenly blurted out, so lost in his own world that the words spilled out without restraint as Lilith''s head snapped back.


    "Wh-WHAT!?" Lilith shrieked, her voice cracking as the heat of embarrassment flooded her entire body.


    Her face burned, turning the shade of a ripe tomato, her mind scrambling to process what he had just said.


    "Say it back," Ricky demanded with a cock grin, sleazily enjoying himself and yet, his gaze was hazy, completely entranced by her.


    It was like he was drunk in this feeling, this moment, when he held Liliht in his arms and was completely drunk off lust, off her, off everything that had just transpired between them.


    Ricky wanted to tease her, to make her moan, to unravel every ounce of her being that she kept locked away from the world and claim it solely for himself.


    "No, that''s embarrassing-"


    "Say it~" Ricky chuckled, bringing her palm to his lips, pressing a slow, deliberate kiss against it, a silent promise that he would always hold her like this.


    Mumble


    Lilith mumbled something under her breath, the words barely audible, but Ricky caught them as his smirk only widened.


    "C''mon, say it with that beautiful chest of yours~" Ricky coaxed, his voice dripping with amusement.


    "I said I love you~" Lilith whined, finally turning her flushed face toward him, looking as if she''d just uttered the most embarrassing confession of her life.


    "That wasn''t so hard~" Ricky teased, his voice dripping with satisfaction as he chuckled.


    Lilith huffed, burying her face against his shoulder to hide the deep crimson staining her cheeks.


    "Shut up." Lilith mumbled, though the way her fingers tightened around his neck and slithered up into his slicked back hair, betraying how much she truly meant it.


    Ricky kissed her earlobe, lingering there, savoring the delicious shiver that rippled through her body.


    His breath fanned against her skin, hot and slow, as his hands traced their way down the curves of her body, drinking in every contour, every soft dip and swell.


    His fingers finally found purchase on her cheeks, squeezing them with a possessive grip that sent a jolt of anticipation straight through her.


    But he didn''t rush, he didn''t slam her down onto him with that same impaling force from before.


    No, he kept his word.


    Ricky''s muscles flexed as he lifted her effortlessly, her weight nothing in his hands, as though she were made for him to hold like this.


    Then, with an aching slowness, he lowered her back down, letting her take him inch by inch.


    The way she sank onto him, the way her walls hugged him so greedily, was just completely intoxicating.


    But best of all were Lilith''s whimpers, how her lips parting against his neck as a breathless moan escaped her.


    It was different kind of pleasure from the raw, all inducing mindf*ck as the sensual pleasure flowing between them was akin to a fine wine.


    How she trembled in his hold, how her arms were tightening around his shoulders as if clinging to the last shred of control she had.


    Ricky just smirked, feeling the soft vibrations of her pleasure against his skin as he pulled her in closer, his chest pressed to hers, his hands roaming up the smooth expanse of her back.


    "God, how can you feel so good~" Ricky teased, his lips brushing against her temple as he cradled her against his chest.


    Lilith let out a breathy whimper, her fingers gripping onto his shoulders as she settled into the slow, deliberate rhythm he set.


    "Stop saying those things~" Lilith said, trying to stop him as he was ruing the moment but instead of arguing, Ricky nodded.


    "Fine." Ricky only chuckled, his smirk evident even as his lips brushed against her jaw.


    Instead of pressing further, he let his words fall away, choosing instead to let his actions speak.


    His lips trailed downward, skimming her collarbone, then lower, peppering kisses along her flushed skin.


    All the while, her body rocked up and down on his cock, the slow, intoxicating rhythm pulling a soft moan from her lips.


    However, it was then that a pinching sensation suckled around her nipple, a foreign yet electrifying touch that slithered around her tits that sent a jolt through her already overstimulated body.


    Lilith''s brows furrowed in confusion for only a moment before embarrassment crashed over her in a tidal wave.


    "W-What are you doing?!" Lilith moaned, her voice barely carrying any real protest, breath hitching as her fingers dug into his shoulders.


    Ricky didn''t answer, not with words and instead, in one slow, caressing motion, guided her ass back down onto him.


    The sensation of being filled again knocked the air from her lungs, leaving her gasping as her head fell back.


    "T-That''s for the babies~" Lilith bit her lip, forcing out the words between shaky breaths, her face burning with embarrassment.


    Ricky only shrugged, entirely unfazed, his mouth still latched onto her nipple as his fingers kneaded the soft flesh of her breast.


    A teasing hum rumbled in his throat before he gave a firm squeeze, coaxing out a warm rush of milk that coated his tongue.


    He pulled back just enough to smirk up at her, licking his lips with an almost lazy satisfaction.


    "Taste test."


    It was such a shameless retort, leaving Lilith absolutely speechless at just how brazen he could be. Her face burned, her mind scrambling for a response, but what could she even say to that?


    For Ricky, this was just normal.


    You can''t be embarrassed if you''re completely shameless.


    That was the difference between them, the reason their polar opposites clashed yet fit together so perfectly.


    He pushed boundaries, while she flustered and faltered, only to fall right into his hands every single time.


    Or rather, her tits fell perfectly into his hands, her warm breast milk flowing into Ricky''s mouth as he suckled, weirdly dining on it as if savoring a fine wine.


    "Rich, yet subtle, smooth but rich-" Ricky mused, swirling his tongue over her nipple before giving it another squeeze, drawing out more of that milk meant for the children she was carrying.


    "STOP!" Lilith gasped, trying to push him away, but her body betrayed her, the moan slipping past her lips like a desperate plea.


    She pressed her hands against his cheek, futilely attempting to shove him, only for Ricky to chuckle as her palms merely smooshed against his them.


    "S-Stop talking like that! It''s weird!" Lilith whined, squirming in his grasp, her face burning with embarrassment.


    Ricky only smirked, his tongue flicking over her sensitive peak before he lapped up another taste.


    "Can''t help it, this is like fine dining." Ricky murmured against her skin, his voice dripping with amusement.


    "And you just taste too damn good."


    "I-Ah~" Lilith gasped, her voice trembling as embarrassment clouded her thoughts, distracting her from the way Ricky''s hands guided her down.


    The moment his tip kissed the deepest part of her, a shudder coursed through her body.


    It felt like she was being devoured, swallowed whole by the intensity of it all and the heat, the sensation, the way he held her like she was something fragile yet completely his.


    Her embarrassment was the only thing tethering her to reality, but even that was slipping, unraveling like a thread being pulled loose, of being devoured completely.


    What poetic irony their relationship had become as Lilith, the inspiring vampire queen who once sought to use Ricky, to chain him as her little toy, had unknowingly fallen victim to her own desires.


    She had intended to make him hers, to wrap him around her finger, yet here she was, trembling in his grasp, yielding to his touch, her body betraying her in ways she never anticipated.


    And the most terrifying part?


    She didn''t want to stop him.


    It was as if her fate had been sealed the moment she let him into her mind, body, and soul.


    Deep down, she was just a girl spurred on by the tragedies of others, her true nature far more docile than she ever let on.


    That''s why, once again, she nestled her head onto his shoulder, her breath warm against his skin as she wrapped her arms around his neck.


    No more resistance, no more pretense, just the soft, rhythmic motion of her ass bouncing on his cock, surrendering herself completely to the moment.


    Her back arched toward him, a soft whimper slipping past her lips, but the only thing keeping their bodies from fully molding together was the gentle press of her round belly against his toned abdomen.


    They were both getting closer, their bodies slowly grinding against one another as if budding out a beautiful moment that would forever be theirs to have.


    "Ricky I-"


    "Me too~" Ricky murmured, licking his lips as if savoring the refined taste, already knowing what she was about to say.


    Effortlessly, he guided her face toward his, her crimson eyes fluttering open to meet his gaze.


    A quiet moment passed between them before their foreheads slowly pressed together, their breaths mingling, bodies still entwined.


    Then, their bodies crashed together, and a shared climax surged through them, a beautiful exchange of pleasure, raw yet tender.


    The softness of their beings melded into one, their breaths hitching, their voices lost in the ecstasy of the moment.


    "Ah~" Lilith softly moaned, planting her ass firmly on his cock before releasing a tide of her nectar.


    Steady streams of her pleasure flowed down onto the bed that was already stained in the mess they created before, overlapping it with an even deeper color.


    Ricky just gnashed his teeth, holding Lilith down as his cock spurted out an entire load into her already cream-filled being.


    The heat erupted out once more, that mind numbing warmth that left her utterly filled to the brim and how it blossomed within her stomach.


    Huff


    Huff


    Huff


    They sat in each other''s embrace, Lilith resting her head against his chest as their breaths slowly evened out.


    Ricky shifted, gently maneuvering her onto her side, ensuring she was comfortable.


    Sliding in behind her, he wrapped an arm around her waist, his hand resting over the soft curve of her stomach.


    He pulled her close, his warmth enveloping her as he pressed a lingering kiss behind her ear.


    "And they call me a beast~" Lilith huffed, sighing a little as Ricky only chuckled, finding some subtle peace within the chaos of his life.


    "Ha, my bad," Ricky muttered, feeling her nestle against his chest, seeking warmth and comfort.


    They sort of sat in silence for a while, Lilith having something one her mind before she slowly turned her gaze back to him.


    "Are you leaving tomorrow?" Lilith asked, the clear want in her eyes making Ricky''s chest tighten.


    "Yeah-"


    "Promise me something," Lilith interrupted, her gaze serious, brimming with all the love she struggled to put into words.


    "Promise me you won''t die, that you won''t throw your life away and that you''ll come back to me." Lilith worries bled forward, raw and unguarded by any shame as Ricky held her tighter, pressing a slow, lingering kiss to her shoulder


    "Cockroaches never get crushed under the rubble¡ªwe always find a way to scurry out." Ricky said it so lightheartedly, as if it were just a passing joke, but he meant every single syllable.


    And it was because of that, because she knew he wasn''t just trying to comfort her with empty words, that Lilith felt some relief.


    "Good." Lilith whispered, turning her gaze forward and pressing her hand above Ricky''s that rested on her stomach.


    "What are you going to name them?" Ricky asked, feeling Lilith trace circles above his palm.


    "They''re twin boys, Ricky." Lilith chuckled, fully aware that he hadn''t known the gender until now.


    "Ugh, not another son," Ricky sighed, running a hand down his face.


    Lilith''s sharp instincts caught the hint of something in his tone, something heavier than just casual frustration.


    "What-"


    Cough


    "So, what are the names?" Ricky coughed, perfectly covering the suspicion which made Lilith frown.


    "You pick." Lilith whispered, giving Ricky the option to decide as he sort of thought about it for a moment before thinking of the first two names that came to mind.


    "What about Johnny and Henry?" Ricky blurted out instinctively, only to pause, realizing just how many Johnny''s and Henry''s he knew.


    Which is why it was no wonder those were the first names that came to mind.


    Lilith stared at him in silence, the weight of secondhand embarrassment settling over her before she let out a sigh.


    "I suppose I''ll just go with the names I already had in mind." Lilith said as if taking on the burden completely, taking it off of Ricky''s hands.


    "Alright then, lay it on me." Ricky chuckled, watching her loving smile form when looking down at her protruding stomach.


    "The firstborn will be named Raizel," Lilith said softly, her fingers tentatively stroking her belly while her other hand remained entwined with Ricky''s.


    "And the youngest, Alucard." Ricky, raising an eyebrow, understood that it was an anagram from Dracula which is why he was so confused.


    "I know what you''re wondering, but in Transevina culture, Raizel means ''Protector'' and ''Lord,''" Lilith explained, her eyes carrying a deep, unspoken emotion as she tenderly caressed her stomach.


    "And Alucard is just as it seems, but I want him to be what Dracula was supposed to be for the vampire race."" she admitted, her voice laced with quiet determination.


    "My hope is that both of them become the pillars of our race and usher in an age of peace never before known." Lilith''s gaze softened, yet held an unwavering resolve.


    "Do you think-.........do you think that it''s too much?" Lilith asked tentatively, her innocence peeking through in a way that made Ricky pause.


    Instead of answering right away, he simply pulled her closer, his arms tightening around her in a gesture of reassurance as his lips brushed against her temple, warm and steady.


    "Nah." Ricky murmured, his voice low and certain.


    "I think it''s perfect."


    Author''s Note:


    Author''s Note: Ik what I said about posting earlier but I was just playing CK3 and watching Game of thrones, again.

 Chapter 177: No - Today, I’m Burned Out

    Chapter 177 - No Chapter Today, I''m Burned Out


    Not gonna lie, I''m pushing back the Chapter to tomorrow and extend it to Monday because it''s finals week, and I''m just exhausted. These past two weeks have been rough, and I''m feeling more drained by the day. I know you''re all disappointed and I''m frustarted in myself but I just can''t do it, I can''t do it right now. These long Chapters are seriously wearing me out. I love writing them, but they take way too long to produce. So, I wanted to ask if you guys prefer four Chapters over four days, or shorter Chapters released daily? Let me know what you think. For now, I just need a break. I''m sorry, and I appreciate your understanding.

 Chapter 178 - 170: Plan, Prepare, and then Delayed

    Chapter 178 - 170: Plan, Prepare, and then Delayed


    Meanwhile In Otherworld,


    Within the dead of night, at the highest spiral tower of Camelot, Merlyn sat hunched over his research, his quill scratching feverishly against parchment.


    Scrolls and tomes piled high around him, the bookshelves behind him already stuffed to their limits with the weight of accumulated knowledge.


    Orbs flickered and hummed around his desk, each one depicting a different image, a live window into the many corners of his city.


    His eyes, ever watchful, darted between them, ensuring no secret, no movement, escaped his sight.


    Yet, amidst all his wisdom and power, failure loomed before him.


    The horrors of his latest experiment lay bare on the cold table at the center of the room.


    His latest attempt at refining his chimeras had ended in ruin, the grotesque, unfinished form of an unborn creature standing as a testament to his miscalculation.


    He had tried, once again, to mold life where none should be, to fit unnatural pieces together in his pursuit of perfection.


    And once again, nature had denied him.


    "Master Merlyn."


    A voice rang out from the side, calm yet insistent but Merlyn didn''t even spare a glance, his quill continuing its relentless scrawl across parchment as he theorized the possibilities of self-multiplying chimera''s that could reproduce on their own rather than having to constantly spend his valuable time creating more.


    "I specifically instructed Cedric that no one was to use his communication orb unless it was an emergency," Merlyn said lightly, though his hand paused just slightly before his gaze suddenly flickered toward the orb.


    It was not Cedric who stared back at him, but Morgana Frost.


    "Ricky Luciano has acted and he suddenly called for all the coven members to take up arms and-"


    "Oh?" Merlyn stopped, rubbing his chin, not with displeasure, but with amusement as a slow smile curled across his lips.


    "So, I was right in my hypothesis of him suspecting me of planting a mole" Merlyn mused, his voice carrying an air of satisfaction as if more content with the fact that he was right rather than being found out.


    With a quiet chuckle, he returned to his scribes, his quill gliding across the parchment as if nothing had changed.


    "It is becoming almost a regularity that he surprises me once again." Merlyn smiled, pleased that Ricky was competent enough to grasp this much.


    "Should we stall-"


    "Of course not, speed up the plan in fact, I want it done before he gathers his sub-par army to attack Camelot." Merlyn chuckled, his eyes burning with ferocious intent.


    "I can already see it now, the face he''ll make when he learns the news and vows to destroy everything Camelot is. Oh, I can''t wait~" Merlyn let out a horrid chuckle, tapping his quill against the paper, the ominous rhythm marking the beginning of a foreboding event.


    "But let us skip to the main issue, the real reason you even opened this channel," Merlyn said, cutting straight to the heart of the matter before Morgana Frost could speak.


    "The issue concerning your grandson." Merlyn barely spared her a glance, already piecing everything together with ease.


    Finally, he turned his face toward her, his expression unreadable yet knowing as she faltered, ducking her head to hide her expression.


    "Samuel is a very isolated boy-"


    "Every one of us has lost those who were close to us for the greater good, for the promised king," Merlyn interjected coldly, his gaze sharp as he watched Morgana Frost lower her head in shame.


    "We sin so that he may not, we kill so that he may not, and we sacrifice to bring him, to bring humanity into its golden age because we can not." Merlyn''s voice grew more and more lethal with each word, pressing down like an invisible weight onto Morgana Frost who paled, swallowing hard under his piercing scrutiny.


    "To feel that love toward our king, to put him above all, we must give up what we hold dear." Merlyn returned his gaze to his writings, already sensing that he had driven the conversation to its inevitable conclusion.


    His quill scratched against the parchment as he continued, his voice devoid of hesitation.


    "For you, it was your brother. For Cedric, it was his best friend. And for Samuel, well, he must either kill what is closest to him or forfeit his place in our golden age. Do you understand?" Merlyn''s words lingered in the air, their weight undeniable as Morgana Frost closed her eyes, her silence the only confirmation he needed.


    "Yes Master Merlyn-"


    "Do you think of it as unfair, having to sacrifice for something that is supposed to be everything you dream of?" Merlyn suddenly asked, his question hanging in the air, laced with a quiet amusement that made Morgana Frost hesitate.


    Her lips parted slightly as if to answer, but she quickly closed them, swallowing whatever protest had almost escaped.


    "I-I do," Morgana Frost admitted, her voice barely a whisper.


    "But I understand the necessity that the king must rise." Morgana added at the end, but it wasn''t clear if she truly meant it or was trying to pacify him.


    "Do you know the essence of sacrifice?" Merlyn''s voice sliced through the silence like a blade, sharp and purposeful, savoring the weight of the question hanging between them as he watched Morgana intently, her hesitation speaking volumes before she spoke.


    "I understand it as the price of progress, the cost of achieving something greater," Morgana replied, her voice steady but betraying the uncertainty within.


    She offered him the definition that she believed to be true, the one she had convinced herself of over time.


    Merlyn''s lips twisted into a slight smile, watching her seemingly at odds with this internal strife formed from what he called, Sacrifice.


    "No, Morgana, it''s more than that. Sacrifice isn''t just a price you pay, it''s a piece of you that you sever." Merlny''s words whispered, almost slithered into her ears as she was forced to gaze up at its tempting sound.


    "You tear it from your very soul, offering it freely in exchange for something or someone else, and you may never get it back. It may even leave a wound that never fully heals." Merlyn''s gaze pierced into her, and he leaned in closer, his voice becoming a low murmur.


    "Now, could you live your entire life like that? Able to give up everything for people who would barely part from a single gold coin?" Merlyn genuinely asked, raising an eyebrow as Morgana''s eyes flickered with a mix of discomfort and understanding.


    "Of course not, we are greedy. Humans, by nature, are greedy. But the promised king would give his life for that greedy nature because he believes that nature could be more," Merlyn said, as if it were obvious but heavy with conviction, as if the truth of it was something he had always known and yet, so out of reach.


    "We sacrifice to understand what our promised king desires, we do it not because we have to, but because we, too, want to glimpse that realm of selflessness that will always elude us. We chase it, even if only for a fleeting moment." Merlyn paused, letting the weight of his words settle into the air before speaking again, softer now but no less commanding.


    "You gave up what you loved for the greater good, you saw that sliver of doing something bigger than all of us, and you followed this far because you believed in it." Merlyn''s words burrowed deep in her mind as she wanted to refute, but couldn''t find the legs of reason to stand on.


    "Help Samuel see it as well, help him understand that this is the path we must all take if we are to usher in the age that the promised king has in mind," Merlyn spoke, his tone condescending, as if Morgana were a child in need of a simple lesson.


    But his words carried this weight of finality, and his eyes gleamed with the certainty that she had no choice but to comply.


    "Now get it done since the next time this orb speaks, I expect it to be the news I want," Merlyn continued, his voice hardening with impatience and with a dismissive flick of his hand, he severed the connection, the orb cutting off with a sudden, harsh silence.


    "Oh Ricky, just because you expedite your little crusade doesn''t mean I am not prepared," Merlyn sighed, muttering to himself as he sat up from his desk.


    The words were tinged with an amused but unsettling calm, as though he had anticipated this all along.


    His fingers traced the air before him, and with a calculated precision, he opened a portal.


    The rippling vortex glowed faintly with arcane energy, its swirling depths drawing his gaze with an air of cold inevitability.


    "I always have a contingency plan."


    At the center of Otherworld stood a floating obelisk, a towering form of beautiful architecture that seemingly pierced the heavens.


    It floated within the contrast of an endless sky and an endless void, spiraling down towards both as its many spires stretched outward like the hands of gods, their peaks shimmering with an ethereal glow that wasn''t simply fire nor magic, but of something older, something woven into the very fabric of fate of this dimension.


    Walls of gleaming white stone, veined with streaks of silver and deep cosmic blues, pulsed faintly as if alive, responding to the ebb and flow of the energies that coursed through Otherworld.


    Above, the sky was neither day nor night, but an infinite expanse where galaxies flickered softly, their distant light refracting through the Citadel''s crystalline windows.


    Each pane captured not the present, but fleeting glimpses of potential futures, as if the Starlight Citadel itself stood at the nexus of countless dimensions.


    Below, in the darkness that pressed in from the edges of the multiverse, the Citadel''s radiant gates were the final defense against the unspeakable horrors lurking just beyond the veil.


    Despite its ethereal beauty, the Citadel was not merely a sanctuary, it was a fortress, the last bastion of hope against the unknown terrors that lay beyond, that lay within this void.


    Within all of that, a portal opened, and Merlyn stepped through.


    Contrasting to his cold expression from earlier, his smile now radiated warmth, capable of soothing even the most restless souls.


    Yet, beneath that serene exterior, his true nature, his darker, more sinister ambitions, remained concealed.


    Because to the people within this fortress, he was a savior, a hero.


    "Master Merlyn!" An attendant, surrounded by a diverse group of individuals, bowed before him as he chuckled, lifting his hand in a calming gesture.


    "Would you be so kind as to point me in the direction of my daughter?" Merlyn asked, his smile warm and sincere, as if he was nothing more than a grandfather to her.


    The attendant nodded eagerly, her head bobbing up and down with a mixture of reverence and excitement.


    Truth be told, Merlyn could have found his daughter with the snap of a finger, but this was for appearances.


    The gazes of admiration surrounded him like a vice, pressing in from all directions as he suddenly found himself at the center of this floating obelisk.


    To these people, these beings who did not simply hail from the earth they stood on, but from realms beyond as this Citadel and its gateway represented something much larger.


    To them, the Starlight Citadel was not just a home; it was the first and last line of defense against threats capable of unraveling reality itself.


    It was a fortress built not to conquer, but to preserve, an unwavering wall against the unknown forces that sought to tear apart the very fabric of existence.


    It holds the archives of all Earths, storing fragments of history, fate, and prophecy, a cosmic library that observes the rise and fall of civilizations across the span of time.


    The Citadel is the keeper of countless truths, a silent witness to the complexities of existence.


    Its army, the Captain Britain Corps which is an elite force Merlyn himself had forged, housing a collection of champions drawn from the vast expanse of the multiverse, bound by duty to the Citadel.


    Their mission is clear: safeguard the integrity of Otherworld and ensure no single Earth grows too unstable.


    For the destruction of one world could send ripples through the entire structure of reality, unraveling everything that exists.


    Their role is to preserve the balance, to prevent chaos from spilling across the boundaries of creation itself.


    At its core, the Starlight Citadel is both a fortress and a conduit, an interdimensional hub that regulates access between Otherworld and the countless Earths it governs.


    However, though Merlyn presents the Starlight Citadel as the center of all realities, the truth is far more complicated than he lets on.


    The Starlight Citadel does serve as a gateway but more of a linchpin of a single Otherworld, and rather than being linked to infinite Earths across the entire multiverse, it is tied to a specific cluster of realities, a localized multiversal web where each Otherworld governs its own unique set of Earths.


    The multiverse, contrary to popular belief, is not a singular, infinite sprawl of endless universes.


    Instead, it is a vast collection of reality clusters, each one a cohesive domain of existence.


    Within each of these clusters lies its own distinct Otherworld, a mythical and mythic center that serves as the heart of those particular realities.


    Every Otherworld is unique to its respective reality group, meaning that while countless Earths exist, they are not all governed by the same Otherworld.


    Instead, these Earths are divided into clusters, with each Otherworld overseeing only its assigned set of Earths.


    These clusters form pocket multiverses, distinct realms of existence where the Otherworld functions as a mythic higher plane, reflecting and influencing the destinies of the Earths under its jurisdiction.


    But the interaction between two Otherworlds could lead to drastic, reality-warping conflicts that would unknowingly destroy the very realities they govern.


    The fundamental laws of each Otherworld are unique to their respective cluster of Earths.


    If two clusters were to overlap or collide, their mythic structures would clash, triggering unpredictable distortions in fate, time, and existence itself, affecting not only the Earths but the very realities they reside within.


    This is why Merlyn is so meticulous in his management of Otherworld as his true purpose, his ultimate goal, is the preservation of his own Otherworld and its destined role within his plans.


    However, if he doesn''t assert his influence occasionally, his notoriety and influence begin to die out.


    Merlyn is fully aware that, without maintaining his power and presence, his position within the grand scheme of this cluster diminishes.


    His preoccupation with managing threats, like the one he currently deems Ricky to be, often distracts him from this delicate balance


    Walking alongside the attendant, Merlyn eventually arrived at a corridor where the attendant quickly bowed and scurried off, leaving him to face the grand double doors ahead.


    With a subtle wave of his hand, he pushed the doors open, revealing a long, ethereal walkway as the space was dimly lit, yet the light shimmered with a soft, otherworldly glow.


    Along the sides of the hall, figures lay on raised platforms, slightly dug into the ground.


    They were surrounded by a network of intricate orbs, each one pulsating with energy.


    The orbs were connected by threads of light, weaving a vast, cosmic web that seemed to pulse in rhythm with the universe itself.


    These individuals, quiet and still, were observing the realities managed by the Starlight Citadel, their eyes locked into the spheres that granted them access to alternate dimensions and the fates of this cluster.


    At the end of the walkway stood a woman of quiet elegance, the acting guardian of the Citadel and Merlyn''s daughter, Lady Roma.


    Her long, flowing black hair, as dark and infinite as the void between stars, cascaded over her shoulders in soft waves.


    Unlike her father, Merlyn, whose presence was overwhelming and charged with an olden authority, Roma''s strength was far more subtle.


    She radiated a calm, steady force, a silent power that was felt rather than seen, a quiet yet undeniable influence that contrasted with the more forceful energies of her father.


    Her eyes shimmer like polished obsidian, reflecting the vast knowledge she possesses, yet there''s a warmth in them, a quiet wisdom that sets her apart from Merlyn''s more calculating nature.


    She is often seen in elegant yet simple robes, favoring shades of silver, white, and deep blue, reminiscent of moonlight on still water.


    The fabric moves gently, woven with faint traces of magic, but it is not overwhelming, just a reminder of her connection to Otherworld''s mystical nature.


    Though not a warrior in the traditional sense, she carries herself with quiet confidence, relying on her intellect and strategic mind rather than brute strength.


    Her job within the Citadel was to aid in the grand design instilled in her from a young age, the same purpose that had been imparted to them all, to safeguard the fragile balance of realities.


    As the daughter of Merlyn, Roma played a vital role in the empowerment and guidance of the Captain Britain Corps, the interdimensional legion of champions chosen to defend what she believed was the multiversal order.


    While her father orchestrated the grander schemes of Otherworld, it was Roma who stood beside him, ensuring that those who bore the mantle of Captain Britain were not only gifted with power but prepared for the burdens they carried.


    Though she was not as manipulative as Merlyn, she understood his vision, or atleast, the vision she assumed they shared.


    Beside her was her most trusted subordinate, a woman not from the earth Ricky transpired on but within the cluster, from Earth-9.


    Her name is known as Opal Luna Saturnyne and contrary to Lady Roma, she exuded an icy, calculated elegance that inflicted a commanding presence without the need for overt displays of power.


    Her blonde hair sleek, cascading in perfect waves down back as the silky texture exuded with every sway.


    Her eyes, cold and piercing, gleam with intelligence and ambition, a shade of blue so sharp it seems almost unnatural.


    But unlike Lady Roma, they held no warmth, only the weight of calculations and expectations, as if she was always assessing, always judging.


    She wore a pristine white robe, embroidered with delicate silver patterns that shimmer faintly under the ambient glow of the Starlight Citadel.


    "No, he is not ready to wield-Father?" Lady Roma, who had been carefully assessing a hero candidate for the Captain Britain Corps, suddenly paused mid-sentence, her gaze shifting to her father walking down the pathway.


    "My dear, how are you?" Merlyn''s voice was filled with warmth, and his eyes glowed with an immense, unmistakable love as he spread his arms wide, continuing his approach toward her.


    "Stressed due to Earth-9''s civil war, but a little relieved after seeing you," Lady Roma sighed heavily, walking toward him and collapsing into his embrace.


    "Look at you, all grown up and running the Citadel," Merlyn said, feigning a dramatic cry.


    "It feels like just yesterday you were clinging to my robes, and now you''re wearing your own." Merlyn''s voice was filled with mock sorrow as he exaggerated his emotions, and the others who had been observing couldn''t help but chuckle at his antics.


    Merlyn''s reputation as a doting father was well-known, and moments like these only reinforced that image.


    "Father, please~" Lady Roma, embarrassed to her core, tried to stop Merlyn, but he only placed a dramatic hand on his forehead, as if struck by the overwhelming weight of emotion.


    "Ah, my dear Roma." Merlyn sighed theatrically, prancing around as if he were but a mere jester for their entertainment.


    "Oh, how you would always cry and beg to sleep in my bed because of the monsters in your closet-"


    "FATHER!" Lady Roma blushed, her face turning crimson as she quickly covered Merlyn''s mouth with her hand.


    But Merlyn, undeterred, continued to speak, his eyes twinkling with mischief, chuckling through her palm that pressed against him.


    "Master Merlyn, a pleasure," Opal Luna Saturnyne, or as everyone called her, Saturnyne, greeted with a formal tone and offered a respectful curtsy.


    "Father, if you''re here to embarrass me, I have duties to attend to-"


    "Actually, my beloved, dearest, lovely, insightful-" Merlyn interrupted, launching into a tangent about all the remarkable qualities his daughter possessed, seemingly forgetting what he was about to say when his voice filled with affection for his daughter.


    Lady Roma''s face turned a deeper shade of red as her hair began to flare up with magical energy.


    "FATHER!" Lady Roma yelled, trying to control her flaring emotions, but her embarrassment was palpable as she struggled to calm the magic surging around her.


    Cough


    "Apologies, my dear," Merlyn coughed, regaining his composure as he pulled out a shimmering orb from within his robes and held it up, letting it float in the air between them.


    It was then that images began to emerge from the orb, swirling around Lady Roma.


    Her eyes were filled with the sight of Ricky Luciano, clad once again in his black knight attire, facing off against the Ordo Draconum.


    It was then that eye, the very one pressed the skull of a random member, the very same used to attack him, wasn''t merely to observe; it sought to capture every detail, every moment of his battle, and record it, for this moment.


    This contingency plan.


    The dialogue was conveniently cut short, leaving Ricky''s actions isolated and disconnected, presenting him not as the man they had come to know, but something else entirely.


    "Isn''t this the Ricky Luciano from Earth-58008?" Saturnyne asked, her voice steady but with a hint of recognition, as she studied the images around them.


    She was clearly aware of his existence, having seen his name on the potential recruits list, one that required more careful monitoring.


    As previously noted by none other than Alexander the Great himself, Ricky''s actions had not only painted him as a hero to his marginalized group of mutants, but to the outside forces observing his actions.


    While his world had certainly begun to take notice of him, whispers of his name were now reaching the ears of those from other planes connected to Earth.


    His influence was growing, expanding beyond the boundaries of his reality and drawing the attention of many.


    The Starlight Citadel being at the forefront.


    It was because of this very perception that the events unfolding before them were truly horrifying.


    Ricky''s fighting lacked the refined elegance that his actions eluded too.


    In fact, to them, it was nothing short of barbaric.


    Some of the spectators nearby recoiled, covering their mouths in shock, as the image highlighted Ricky severing a man in two with one of his spectral arms.


    The brutality was undeniable, and the contrast to the hero they had come to know was f*cking stark.


    It was as though the very essence of his being had shifted, revealing a far darker, more violent side.


    Even Saturnyne was taken aback, her expectations shattered as she had known Ricky as a mobster, but she had always assumed he carried himself with a certain level of refinement, maybe a gentleman type.


    But now, watching him cleave through another man with ruthless precision, any remnants of that image were swiftly torn away.


    "H-How did I miss that?" Lady Roma whispered, her voice trembling with horror as she covered her face in disbelief as Merlyn nodded slowly, a quiet acknowledgment of the gravity of the situation.


    In Lady Roma''s eyes, she could never question these images that came directly from her loving father.


    After all, the Starlight Citadel was at the forefront of protection, and Merlyn stood at the heart of that trust.


    However, something felt off.


    Merlyn had oddly cut out the part where Ricky had exhibited his Nethergod traits and instead, the image focused on a far darker moment, showcasing Ricky stepping on Angela, with the image freezing on his face, how he was smiling ear to ear.


    The smile was chilling, unsettling, and for Lady Roma, it sparked a deep, gnawing unease that she could not easily shake.


    "He might present himself as a savior, but beneath that facade lies a wicked man, one who hides evil behind his smile," Merlyn said ironically, his lips curving into a gentle smile as he glanced at Lady Roma.


    "As you know, I forged the Starstone into many artifacts for heroes to wield and I had asked him to meet so as to discuss a possible partnership, but when I unearthed his wicked deeds, he retaliated against my poor order," Merlyn said, giving a sob story, wiping his eyes as he had actually learned how to cry on command.


    "Those poor souls, those poor souls~" Merlyn''s sorrowful voice rang out, his expression reflecting deep disappointment in Ricky that showed on the faces of all those around him.


    "His retaliation sees no end, and I am here because he will soon depart for Otherworld, and we must stop him," Merlyn spoke, deliberately emphasizing the gravity of the situation as Lady Roma''s eyes widened at the realization.


    "You don''t mean-"


    "I''m afraid so, he seeks to free the wicked Morgana," Merlyn covered his mouth, as if recalling something truly dreadful.


    The faces of everyone in the room turned ashen, the weight of the revelation settling over them like a dark cloud.


    There are multiple Morganas across the clusters they monitor, all wicked and evil beings, but only one had to be personally trapped in Otherworld.


    Only one was powerful enough to nearly destroy not only Camelot but the very heart of the Starlight Citadel itself.


    "I must make preparations to shield Camelot from this unlikely invader but I need time, it''s why-"


    "Father, speak no more," Lady Roma said, halting her loving father''s words as she puffed out her chest, exuding an aura of authority and leadership.


    "I shall send the Captain Britain Corps to guard the gateways located on Earth-58008," Lady Roma declared, signaling with a firm gesture as she nodded her head to Merlyn, who smiled warmly in response.


    "Thank you, my precious daughter, truly." Merlyn smiled, his eyes gleaming with pride as Lady Roma returned his smile.


    Letting it rest in her hands, a swell of pride hit Lady Roma as she realized her father trusted her enough to shoulder such responsibility.


    She stood there for a moment, her heart filled with purpose, before the task ahead settled in and with a deep breath, she steadied herself.


    "LISTEN UP, EVERYONE!" Lady Roma suddenly proclaimed, commanding the room''s attention with fierce authority.


    Her voice echoed through the chamber, sharp and clear, cutting through any murmurs.


    Everyone in the room turned toward her, sensing the gravity of her presence as she stood tall, her aura radiating leadership and strength.


    "RICKY LUCIANO, FROM THIS POINT ON, WILL BE LABELED AS VILLAIN STATUS AND MOVED TO DANGER LEVEL RED!" Lady Roma''s commands rang through the room, her voice unwavering.


    As soon as the words left her mouth, the workers nearby sprang into action, swiftly bringing up holographic images of Ricky Luciano.


    The images were stamped with bold red markings, clearly indicating the new orders, as the room filled with the quiet hum of technology processing her decree.


    "Send teams to the Ring of Standing Stones in the Cheviot Hills'' Darkmoor, Stonehenge, Avebury, Buckingham Palace, Hadrian''s Wall, Cragside in Northumberland, Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol, Cavern Club in Liverpool, Karl Marx''s grave at Highgate Cemetery-" Lady Roma''s voice echoed with unshakable command.


    As she spoke, the locations flickered on the large display, each marked with bright red lights to signal the urgency of the mission.


    Saturnyne, standing off to the side, narrowed her gaze, her curiosity piqued as she observed the image of Ricky Luciano.


    The display, now flooded with images of the marked locations, highlighted Ricky''s growing presence within not only the world, but the universe as a whole.


    "And send team Excalibur to Big Ben!"


    While Lady Roma focused on her preparations, Merlyn returned to Camelot, but not to his study.


    Instead, he made his way to a grand hall where a single round table stood in the center.


    Moments later, six men entered, each adorned in armor crowned with golden highlights, a clear symbol of their significance to Camelot.


    Their presence was commanding, and their movements deliberate as they approached the table.


    These six knights, the harbingers and protectors of Camelot, and the dutiful servants of the fallen Arthur Pendragon, who guarded his honor with unwavering loyalty, were as follows:


    Sir Galahad: The purest of knights, achieving the Holy Grail and upholding the highest ideals of chivalry and never once wavered in his loyalty to Arthur or the kingdom.


    Sir Gawain: One of Arthur''s most trusted warriors during his life, his strength increased with the sun, and has remained loyal throughout the periods of Camelot''s life.


    Sir Bedivere: The knight who returned Excalibur to the Lady of the Lake after Arthur''s final battle and failing to die with his majesty at the last battle.


    Sir Gareth: The knight known for his kindness, humility, and unwavering service, Gareth refused to betray Arthur, despite his family ties to traitors.


    Sir Bors the Younger: The knight with the greatest devotion and morality, one of the only three to succeed in the Grail Quest.


    Sir Tristan: A noble knight, known for his tragic love story with Isolde, who lost his greatest love and then devoted his life to fight for Camelot.


    All of these knights were the men deemed worthy by Merlyn to fight and live alongside Arthur, which was why they had remained in their youthful forms throughout the years.


    The only thing that seemed to have aged was their mourning for their fallen king, yet through it all, they remained steadfast in their loyalty, dedicated to safeguarding his legacy.


    "What is it, Master Merlyn? We haven''t received a call to the Round Table in ten years," Sir Gawain asked, his voice tinged with worry as he walked over to the table as he gazed at Merlyn, who greeted him with a gentle smile.


    Although they were all within the capital, each of these knights had other duties that kept them occupied, and Merlyn, too, had his own projects to manage.


    "I''m afraid this reunion of ours isn''t a pleasant one," Merlyn said, his expression heavy with sorrow.


    As his words settled, the faces of the knights grew solemn, their eyes reflecting the weight of what was to come.


    BAM


    "Is a Nether God raid afoot?" Sir Bedivere spat, his fist slamming against the table with a resounding thud at the mere thought and Merlyn slowly shook his head, his expression remaining somber.


    "No, a wicked man, attempting to join hands with Morgana, is trying to set foot upon our great city, our great domain," Merlyn spoke sadly, his gaze dropping to the ground as Sir Bors scratched his chin thoughtfully, his brow furrowed in concern.


    "But isn''t that impossible? Your sealing spells are impenetrable unless they''re cut by the wielder of the Ebony Blade-" Sir Gawain began, his voice laced with disbelief as he glanced at Merlyn, hoping for a more reassuring answer.


    BAM


    "DO NOT SHAME SIR PERCIVAL''S LEGACY LIKE THAT, SIR BORS!" Sir Bedivere shouted, his voice filled with anger as his fist slammed against the round table, making it reverberate as Sir Bors simply shrugged, unfazed by the outburst.


    "Unfortunately, Sir Bedivere, Sir Bors is correct in his assumption." Merlyn''s words struck like a thunderclap, and in an instant, all six knights wore expressions of shock and disbelief.


    "You don''t mean?" Sir Tristan asked, his voice filled with disbelief, as the gravity of the situation seemed too heavy to bear as Merlyn slowly shook his head, confirming the unsettling truth.


    "Yes, I''m afraid the wielder of the Black Knight does not fight for justice, but has succumbed to the world''s evils." Merlyn said and almost immediately, his words hung heavily in the air.


    Each of the knights were shaken, despite the fact that it was known for Black Knight wielders to lose their sanity over time.


    But the mere thought that such a noble weapon had fallen into darkness left them all in a state of stunned disbelief, for every previous wielder had been a man of honor who had fallen into depravity rather than starting in it.


    Even one of these empty seats should have belonged to Sir Percival, but he had died just before the great war, an event that claimed King Arthur''s life and, in turn, preserved the knights'' immortality.


    "Oh, how sorrowful this is~" Sir Gareth murmured, his voice thick with emotion as tears welled in his eyes.


    He wiped them away hastily, grief-stricken by the thought of Sir Percival''s descendants tarnishing the legacy of such a noble knight.


    "It can''t be, it just can''t be-"


    "Sir Bedivere, I assure you, this is the truth. Do you truly believe I would lie to you?" Merlyn asked, his expression softening into that of a wise, weathered grandfather.


    Sir Bedivere, humbled, lowered his head in response, his pride momentarily silenced by the weight of Merlyn''s words.


    "No, Master Merlyn, I apologize for accusing you of such things," Sir Bedivere said, his voice heavy with regret as he lowered his gaze, feeling his misjudgment.


    "I should not have doubted you."


    "Don''t worry, Sir Bedivere, I could never hate you." Merlyn smiled warmly, his voice full of reassurance as he then turned to the others, his expression shifting as he prepared to address the looming threat.


    "We must lock down Camelot and fortify it against this threat while I send out scouts to assess the danger." Merlyn''s words instantly shifted the mood in the room.


    Each knight''s expression grew solemn as they nodded in agreement, fully aware of the gravity of the situation.


    Merlyn continued to list various areas that needed to be protected and fortified, ensuring that every detail was accounted for in the event of a siege.


    "Oh valiant knights, Camelot is in your hands." Merlyn said, bowing deeply as the knights gripped their hands tightly, nodding with resolve as they bowed in return, determined to carry out the tasks required to defend the good people within its walls.


    Soon, the doors behind the knights closed, and with it, the smile faded from Merlyn''s face as he side-eyed the shadows, his expression turning from a smile into disgusted frown.


    "You can come out now." Merlyn''s deep, commanding voice echoed, his gaze fixed on the shadows with a mixture of disgust and disapproval and slowly, six figures emerged, their twisted and grotesque forms stepping into the light.


    For there to be light, there had to be darkness.


    These six figures represented that darkness, those who had sinned and betrayed their king.


    They were the shadowed counterparts to the knights of the round table, carrying their treachery and bearing a portion of the blame for Arthur''s fall.


    Each of them had been reforged, their bodies twisted into monstrous hybrid forms, neither knight nor beast, yet somehow both.


    Their armor had fused with their flesh, their noble features reduced to grotesque echoes of their former selves.


    Now, they served as Merlyn''s enforcers, unwilling slaves bound to his will, cursed to exist in a torment of mind and body until the end of time.


    These were:


    Sir Agravain: A knight who once prided himself on his cunning, he had been left faceless, his head encased in a mirrored helm that reflected only darkness. His body was deformed, his limbs unnatural in their movements, as though he were a marionette without a puppeteer. Every step he took was soundless, his presence a constant reminder of the betrayal he had wrought upon Camelot.


    Sir Mordred: Arthur''s own flesh and blood, his bastard son who had schemed against him and with Morgana to betray him, killing Sir Percival. Now serpentine in form, his once-proud visage elongated into a fanged maw. His armor had become a chitinous exoskeleton, ridged and spiked, pulsating with dark magic.


    Sir Gwaine: Once a man of mirth and camaraderie, he had been transformed into a creature of ceaseless hunger. His once-handsome features had withered, his flesh turning gray and lifeless, his eyes now glowing embers set deep in sunken sockets. His once-proud sword had become a blackened fang, a blade that fed not on steel, but on the very life essence of those it struck.


    Sir Kay: Arthur''s foster brother, transformed into a winged abomination, his once-proud form now a fusion of man and machine, with jagged metallic wings grafted to his back. His fingers had become talons, his jaw unhinged like a carrion bird, his voice a grating screech that spoke only in riddles and curses.


    Sir Gaheris: The fire of his mother''s murder still clung to him, his charred flesh forever smoldering, trapped between life and death. His armor was blackened and cracked, revealing glimpses of burning sinew beneath. His blade, jagged and rusted, left behind embers with every swing. He did not speak, not because he chose not to, but because his mouth had melted shut, sealing away whatever regrets he might have held.


    Sir Lancelot du Lac: Once the greatest knight of Camelot, now a gilded horror, his once-pristine armor fused into his skin like a second layer of bone. His eyes, hollow and void of recognition, wept molten gold, a cruel mockery of the purity he once upheld. His right arm, elongated and grotesquely warped, ended in a blade of living steel, forever bound to battle yet never again for honor.


    "Take my stored hoards, divide it between the six of you, and attack when I give the signal." Merlyn''s voice, laced with disgust, echoed through the room as he watched the six horrifying figures nod in unison.


    Without another word, they turned, silently retreating to carry out their dark commands.


    "Use the tunnels. If a single soul sees you, other than Ricky Luciano and his little army, then, well, you can already understand what I''ll do." Merlyn''s words rang out coldly, his gaze unyielding.


    The creatures paused momentarily, whispering in horrid, eerie tones before they resumed their dark march, vanishing into the shadows once more.


    The light filtered in through the window, bathing Merlyn in a soft glow, while another half of the room remained cloaked in darkness, shielding the horrors from view.


    He closed his eyes, letting the cold, creeping silence settle around him as he stood amidst the contrast, torn between the light and the shadows.


    "Now, we wait to see if it is another failure."


    BAM


    ''Is this all that you have managed to muster?''


    BAM


    "Your elbow is too high, when striking you have to bend with your knees."


    BAM


    ''This is who you picked, eldest?''


    Within Ricky''s mind and through his ears, a storm of criticism raged as he warmed up, all while trying to strategize.


    Alexander often emphasized the importance of thinking on your feet in the heat of battle, claiming that some of his greatest strategies were born in those very moments.


    That''s why Alexander emphasized that if Ricky ever found himself in a rut, he should swing his sword and get his blood pumping to clear his mind.


    Right now, Ricky was trying to process the information he had received from Veredelt while forming a plan for what to do once he entered the portal.


    Ricky was sure he''d encounter something on his way to Britain, but that didn''t concern him as his focus was entirely on Merlyn.


    Ricky had a plan, sort of, a personally crafted approach for how he wanted to deal with Merlyn.


    Instead of relying on all of his abilities right away, Ricky focused solely on his sovereign aura, his force field, and his swordsmanship, which encompassed all the weapons wielded by his astral hands.


    If he and Alexander were right, Merlyn would have only just begun watching him, which meant Ricky could hold back some of his cards for the inevitable confrontation, unless he was forced to use them sooner.


    "Focus, Ricky! You need to center your fighting around your swordsmanship!" Alexander yelled, pushing Ricky to hone in on this specialty.


    He believed it was better for Ricky to build his entire fighting style around one core skill, allowing it to influence and enhance his other abilities rather than sporadically using his skills when it suited him.


    ''Is this really it-''


    "I expected more-''


    ''He is the sort to grow on you-''


    "Ricky, no, don''t use the shield like that-"


    "JESUS CHRIST, LET ME THINK!" Ricky yelled, a green aura pulsing around him, spiking as he spoke not only to Alexander but also to the three voices echoing in his head.


    SIGH


    Ricky sighed, holding his face in frustration as his spectral arms swayed behind him, each gripping a weapon, Chastiefol, Stormbringer, and the bow,Sun Flare.


    "Just let me think." Ricky said, lowering his already strained tone as the voices in his head, and the gerbil, fell silent, watching him pinch the bridge of his nose, trying to focus.


    "Okay, what I think-"


    "Ricky, do you have a moment?" Veredelt asked, approaching from the side, his eyes briefly scanning the book in his hand before he looked up and paused.


    "Is this a bad time-"


    "No, it''s the perfect time, where everything goes perfectly, and perfect things just happen!" Ricky said in a mock-cheerful tone, sarcasm lacing his words as his annoyance bled through.


    "Just-......nevermind. What?" Ricky said, seeing the awkward tension grow as he gestured to Veredelt, who slowly nodded and handed him a book.


    "This is a characterization of my earlier words, along with what I suspect Merlin''s army possesses, as well as the quality of force-" Veredelt began explaining the book, walking over to Ricky''s side and giving him a brief introduction.


    Veredelt documented everything, categorizing history as he saw it without bias, while noting significant figures from both the past and present.


    Merlyn was one of these figures.


    It covered the history he knew, connecting Camelot to the Starlight Citadel, along with his rough estimation of the number of Chimeras he possessed.


    It even included a character sheet detailing what he had discovered over the years.


    "What the-where was this when I was fighting Dracula?" Ricky asked, watching Veredelt adjust his glasses.


    "Dracula inherited the powers of Varnae, but they were so watered down that I could never properly deduce anything beyond his magic core and overall magical power." Veredelt explained, walking him through this perfectly executed description as if planned beforehand.


    "But I never could have guessed that he had infused the Van Helsing bodies into his own to become that hybrid, it was beyond me." Veredelt concluded, trying to play up this notion that a man who had collected knowledge for centuries just happened to be unable to collect some on Dracula.


    "Uh-huh," Ricky said, raising an eyebrow at the lie,staring at Veredelt who kept a composed face before eventually frowning.


    "Alright, fine. I didn''t know whether you were a tumbling stone or a formidable force, and this information is a vital piece that requires proper trust, not just in the person, but in their abilities," Veredelt explained again, his lie evident as Ricky rolled his eyes at the excuse.


    "Uh huh."


    "Fine, I didn''t think you would be able to kill Dracula at first which is why I didn''t want to risk my outline falling into his hands." Veredelt finally told the truth, taking a gamble on Ricky with his hoards but unwilling to let his knowledge slip into Dracula''s grasp, showcasing what was more important to him.


    "And what are these rankings? You got human then superhuman, then lesser god and-"


    "I have a strict system for categorizing power that I''ve used as a foundation to describe everything I come across," Veredelt quickly explained, giving Ricky a brief rundown of the power structure he had developed over the years, having lived through the age of gods rather than heroes and villains.


    To Ricky, the world was divided into the strong and the weak¡ªthose who could kill him and those who couldn''t. Veredelt, however, saw it in a more structured way.


    His method of assessing a person fell into distinct categories, each fitting into a defined rank or wedged somewhere in between, yet categorized nonetheless.


    These were:


    (Human) ¨C Ordinary individuals with no enhancements, bound by natural human limits.


    (Peak Human) ¨C The absolute peak of human potential, with Olympic-level feats, heightened senses, and near-perfect reflexes.


    (Superhuman) ¨C Enhanced beings who surpass human limitations, lifting cars, dodging bullets, and demonstrating extreme resilience.


    (Demi-God) ¨C Individuals with divine essence but still bound by mortality. They can command immense power, rival armies, and manipulate supernatural forces.


    (Lesser God) ¨C Younger or minor deities, powerful but still limited in scope. They may rule over specific aspects of existence.


    (God) ¨C True deities who govern a portion of a law of reality itself. Their strength is immeasurable, capable of shaping worlds and bending the laws of physics with ease.


    (Greater God) ¨C Above typical gods, these beings possess influence that can manipulate the law in which is bestowed onto them with a greater portion of will, able to reshape entire dimensions.


    (Elder God) ¨C Architects of creation, beings of unfathomable power that have full reign of their laws as their power alone can shape existence itself.


    (Outer God) ¨C Beings that exist beyond the known multiverse. Their minds are incomprehensible, their power is limitless, and they are not bound by any laws of reality.


    Each of these categories contained various sub-groups, but this was just a broad approach to define beings.


    Merlyn''s body was ranked as Demigod, his magical powers powerful enough to bridge the gap to Lesser God, but he couldn''t transcend that rank due to his inability to attain true divinity which always intrigued Veredelt since he should be on the level of at least a God.


    There were also other factors, as Merlyn''s method of using magic defied his own rank and transcended into the godly realm.


    However, he was bound by his physical form, preventing him from fully accessing that power.


    This, as Veredelt observed, was why Merlyn had remained as he was for so long and hadn''t taken over the world.


    To Veredelt, Ricky was in the superhuman realm, bridging toward the Demi-God level, but unable to fully grasp the verge of power that beings like Asterion possessed.


    However, he only guessed this based on Ricky''s body, as it was as strong as that category.


    Frankly, he didn''t know how powerful Ricky truly was, since it seemed like he had a new power every time Veredelt saw him.


    It was why he wanted to maintain this connection, this link to Ricky, because for all that he didn''t know, there was so much Ricky could become.


    Because of that, Veredelt was willing to invest not only in the idea of Ricky Luciano, but in the man he was, the man he had been, and the man he was becoming.


    Veredelt had seen so many exceptional people throughout his life, so many, in fact, that he had forgotten some of those who had triumphed and achieved far more than the figures in history now celebrated.


    Ricky seemed special, but there was something about him, something that Veredelt personally didn''t understand, that made him want to know more.


    "Thanks," Ricky muttered, flipping through the pages as Veredelt took out the white flute, which connected to his little pocket space that held his massive hoard.


    "Don''t die, Ricky Luciano. I still have much more I need to learn about you," Veredelt chuckled, slipping the flute between the pages he was skimming before slowly backing away.


    "It''s not for me," Ricky muttered, his words catching his own ear and just as Veredelt was about to turn away, he paused.


    "Pardon?"


    "I said dying ain''t for me. I might win or lose, but I won''t die," Ricky smiled, tilting his head up.


    Veredelt looked at him for a long moment before returning the smile with one of his own and nodding.


    "I truly hope that you do not become a tale, but an everlasting story," Veredelt parted with those words.


    Ricky raised an eyebrow as he placed the book into the fiery paws of Alexander, who immediately took it.


    "Ah, I see, I see~" Alexander hummed, passionately reading anything that involved warring, defeating, and conquering the enemy.


    But now, Ricky was left with a different problem, specifically, the ebony siblings who were now bickering inside his head as he closed his eyes and focused, trying to focus in on their voices.


    "Why must you patronize me?!" The Ebony Shield, now replicating Ricky''s appearance with a crew cut, shouted at the Ebony Blade.


    "I am not patronizing you. I said you are holding my attacks back with your stubborn refusal to be used as your intended form, which is the truth." the Ebony Blade scoffed, raising his gaze to the Ebony Shield, who gritted his teeth.


    "Eldest, are you saying that you, in fact, merely accepted this ''Ricky Luciano'' when you first met him?" The Ebony Crown, also adopting Ricky''s image but with long hair, asked the Ebony Blade as the Ebony Blade frowned but didn''t reciprocate the words.


    "Of course not." The Ebony Blade said, speaking without lying or altering the truth, as the two of them scrunched their brows at his words.


    "Then why would we assist this man you didn''t initially help?" The Ebony Crown asked, impatiently awaiting an answer, while the Ebony Blade merely raised his gaze.


    "Isn''t it obvious? You two cannot compare to me," the Ebony Blade''s words were harsh but just as the Ebony Shield was about to roar in response, the Ebony Crown stopped him.


    "Elaborate."


    "I consumed myself with self-loathing and biased views that didn''t allow me to see the common goal I could achieve with his assistance." The Ebony Blade revealed, leaving out key pieces of information to benefit his reasoning.


    "You both complain, whine, that Merlyn is superior to any of my users, but what good is superiority when you are chained, stored away, discarded?" The Ebony Blade genuinely asked, looking at his two siblings who remained quiet.


    "Merlyn treated you, treated me, like mere tools, just like all my past users before me." The Ebony Blade reflected, lowering his gaze at those unpleasant times.


    "I was a killing blade, to be blamed and tormented for abilities that came with a price."


    "But not one of them treated me like a living being, not one of them listened to me. And for all that Ricky lacks, at least he sees me as something more than just a mere curse," The Ebony Blade revealed since despite Ricky being more vain and hateful compared to his predecessors, he listened.


    None before him had ever truly listened to the Ebony Blade, even when he hatefully tried to torment Ricky.


    For that, he was grateful.


    Ricky saw him not as a curse, as his ancestors had alluded to, but as a blade meant to be wielded, with its user bearing the burden that came with it.


    "He''s right since unlike that dipsh*t Merlyn, I''d actually use you two," Ricky revealed his presence, walking from the side as they all turned towards him.


    "Why the hell would we help you kill our creator?!" the Ebony Shield roared, stomping in place. Ricky shrugged.


    "Because he basically sent you to me for free, to be used, so might as well go with his intentions," Ricky replied casually, gesturing towards them to turn to his side cause it was better than doing nothing.


    "What are you-"


    "What do you mean?" The Ebony Crown scrunched his brows, taking a step forward to confront Ricky.


    "Oh, come on. Do you really believe that nimrod Merlyn wouldn''t know I''d kick that Angelia or Angela-whatever her name is, ass?" Ricky genuinely asked, looking at the two who went to say something but paused.


    The Merlyn they knew, their creator, would never do anything without a purpose and if Angela was crushed so easily, there had to be a reason.


    "N-No, our creator sent us here to slow you down with our power-"


    BOOM


    Ricky''s body exploded in a green aura, his eyes glowing as his sovereign aura pulsed throughout his mental space.


    They weren''t here because they wanted to be, but because he wanted them here.


    The Ebony Shield and Ebony Crown both erupted, their own presences flooding the space. But the Ebony Blade simply swiped its hand across the aura with a single decisive movement.


    WHOOSH


    The blazing purple and blue auras surged forward, only to be sliced in half instantaneously as both of the Ebony Artifacts stared, pupils dilated, at this sudden revelation.


    Then, the green aura smashed down on both of their images, pinning them to the ground as every time they tried to spark any resistance, the Ebony Blade would cut it down without hesitation.


    "How the hell is this slowing me down?" Ricky asked, genuinely confused, as he looked towards the two of them, struggling to muster any form of resistance.


    "You cannot do this-"


    "OH PLEASE!" Ricky shouted, laughing out manically at their attempts to suddenly play the victim.


    "You wanna live in my mind and f*cking cry about how life is so unfair? Then do it, go wild," Ricky laughed, walking over and leaning down, his eyes peering down at the two of them, their foreheads pressed into the black pool they used as a floor.


    "But if you wanna stay here, you gotta start paying rent." Ricky''s words hung in the air as he stood up, with a tired and stressed expression.


    "But above all, I ain''t begging you. Either hop on the bandwagon or get off, and you have to decide now." Ricky''s tone was sharp, his gaze unflinching as he stood over them.


    "Maybe if this was another time, one where I was mouthing off like I did with the Ebony Blade over there, I could stay here and really get to the bottom of this, to the bottom of all of whatever trauma you both have, but I f*cking can''t." He ran a hand through his hair, frustration clear in his voice as he took a step back.


    "I don''t have time for your issues that make you so distrustful towards people, the reason why you just drool over your creator, that dickbag Merlyn, who''s just breathing down my back." Ricky''s voice grew more biting with every word, his frustration with the situation mounting.


    "So if you don''t wanna help, then I''ll throw you in a room like Merlyn did, only bringing you out when I need to get rid of you. Or, you can come with me and actually be used for what you were meant to be." Ricky said, but it seemed like his frustration was mixing with his stress to bubble out something he had held back.


    "I ain''t a masterclass fighter or a centuries-old wizard, but I''m gonna struggle, claw my way through every fight, and use you as much as possible to win. That''s what I''d do," Ricky sighed, finishing his whole tangent and looking down at these two unruly Ebony Artifacts, wanting it to just go his way.


    "So, what''s your answer?" Ricky asked, extending his hand toward them, his gaze unwavering as he watched the two siblings glance at each other, then back at him.


    "No." They both responded in unison, their voices firm and resolute.


    Ricky''s lips curled into a grin, and he let out a laugh, rubbing his mouth thoughtfully as he side-eyed the Ebony Blade, who simply shrugged.


    Ricky really wanted it to be that easy, but in reality, these two artifacts were bound by a loyalty and respect that Ricky couldn''t ignore.


    They didn''t want to do anything that might harm or betray their creator, Merlyn.


    Unlike the Ebony Blade, who had grown disillusioned with Merlyn and the way he had been treated, the Ebony Shield and Ebony Crown still held some form of respect for their creator, despite everything.


    "Do you guys want to sit down for a heart-to-heart about your pasts and how they turned you into such assholes-"


    "Don''t you understand? Merlyn is coming for us," the Ebony Crown said, crossing his arms and raising his gaze at Ricky, who responded with a laugh.


    "Oh really?" Ricky chuckled, finding their delusions more than a little amusing.


    However, a tinge of frustration began to seep in, mingling with the weight of the stress he felt.


    "You wouldn''t understand-"


    "Try me." Ricky gestured to them, watching as the two Ebony Artifacts rolled their eyes.


    "Because it seems to me that he just handed you both to me on a silver platter for a reason-"


    "We were obviously meant to slow you down, to keep you occupied!" The Ebony Shield blurted out, his words causing the Ebony Crown to smack his shoulder.


    "Shut it-"


    "How, the f*ck, are both of you slowing ME down?" Ricky asked, spreading out his arms at the two of them as they both turned their gaze toward him.


    "You truly don''t understand, do you?" The Ebony Crown asked, marveling at Ricky''s apparent stupidity as he scrunched his brows.


    "The Ebony Blade never told you, did he?" The Ebony Crown laughed, glancing at the blade, who Ricky now turned to as well.


    "Let me guess, are you guys like puzzle pieces, where when all of you unite, it''s like some sort of power-up?" Ricky suddenly said, just as the Ebony Blade was about to speak as the Blade opened and closed its mouth, then nodded.


    "Figured as much." Ricky shrugged, turning back to the two artifacts, who were now weirded out at how he could just shrug it off.


    "Are you not mad, when all of us siblings unit the Black Knight''s form is complete and-"


    Sigh


    "You know, if I''m being honest, not really," Ricky said, plopping down onto the floor and oddly enough, it looked like he would sink into it, but the surface was solid.


    "After coming to the supernatural world, from all the bullsh*t I''ve gone through, the one thing they all have in common is that they have layers." Ricky held up his hands, stacking them as if layering something on top of another.


    "Like how Dracula wanted to kill all the Van Helsings," Ricky said, holding up one hand and waving the other.


    "Then the reason is because he wanted to cure his weakness by absorbing them into his flesh, which was f*cking disgusting, by the way." Ricky added, chiming in his own opinion as he stacked his waving hand on top of the other.


    "Or like when his stupid son came to New York and started acting like Dracula, then it was this big deal when he revealed he wasn''t." Ricky continued, his voice mounting with the annoyance of all the sh*t he had trudged through.


    "And another time when Abraham said all his descendants were dead, but that was a lie since his granddaughter, Rachael, was still alive became he didn''t want her location to be found out by Dracula because he''d hunt her-"


    SIGH


    "And then it just repeat again, and again, and again but sh*t can''t be cut and dry in this world, there has to be like fourteen million layers in it." Ricky interrupted himself, sighing heavily at the exhaustion of it all as that stress poured into his eyes and the frustration into his mind.


    "Now that I''m really ranting about it, my god, there''s always something underneath what''s said, and I already know, I ALREADY KNOW, that Merlyn is gonna do something and needs me for it for some fcking reason that is tethered to everything he''s fcking made." Ricky threw his hand into the air, his frustration palpable as he realized the layers behind Merlyn''s actions as he sighed heavily and fell back, staring up at the ceiling.


    "Then, why are you walking into the trap-"


    "Because he fcked with my sht!" Ricky shot up, his voice rising as he glared at the two ebony artifacts.


    They flinched at the outburst, but quickly regained their composure, eyes flickering with a mix of surprise and calculation.


    "It wasn''t like I asked to be on that old dude''s radar, he just attacked me!" Ricky laughed bitterly, his stress seeping through the cracks of his facade.


    The two ebony artifacts exchanged glances, then shifted their gaze between themselves, processing his words as if trying to make sense of this new layer to Ricky''s frustration.


    "All I wanted was to f*cking prove that I can be the guy everyone thinks I am, the guy I want to be, but noooooooooooooo!" Ricky yelled, his voice raw with frustration as he sat up quickly, his eyes blazing as he took a step forward, the two ebony artifacts instinctively backing up in response to his intensity as Ricky''s anger swirled around them.


    "There''s always some asshole, some conniving btch, and crazy old guys out there who just can''t have that, CAN''T HAVE RICKY LUCIANO TRYING TO FCKING MAKE SOMETHING OF HIMSELF!" Ricky yelled, his veins bulging as his anger surged.


    He paced, taking his fury out on the ebony artifacts, who had been caught in this sudden storm of frustration, drafted into the winds of his words as his fists clenched so tight his knuckles turned white.


    "I''M A FCKING LEADER, I CAN BE LIKE MY POPS AND BE A FCKING LEADER WHILE FCKING LEADING, YOU FCKING GOT THAT, HUH!" Ricky yelled, his insecurities bubbling up to the surface while spewing out a curse word every other sentence.


    "I CAN STILL STAND UP AND BE RESPONSIBLE, OWN UP TO BEING THE MAN OF MY FAMILY, AND F*CKING LEAD, LEAD, LEAD!" Ricky roared, his voice breaking as the words repeated like a broken record.


    His frustration boiled over into a full-blown breakdown, each word laced with the weight of everything he had been carrying.


    His hands trembled, fists clenched so tightly they were turning white, and for a moment, it felt as though the world around him was closing in as the artifacts watched, silent, as Ricky unraveled before them.


    "I-f*ck~" Ricky was about to say something only to turn away and cover his hand into his face.


    "I just wanted to build sh*t, and literally, the second it all starts going smoothly, some old guy from a goddamn myth shows up out of nowhere and throws a chimera crab monster at me, then threatens my family," Ricky sighed, his hand clutching his forehead as the situation pressed down on him, a massive headache pounding at his temples.


    The frustration in his voice was palpable, the anger simmering beneath the surface, but the exhaustion, both physical and emotional, was what truly showed.


    "And I can''t just sit back, brush it off, cause I''d look like a pussy." Ricky said, throwing his hand into the air since if he ignored it then he would be seen as weak.


    "But literally, LITERALLY, the second I go around and have this f*cking reunion tour with all the women I boned and then dipped, saying I''ll be around and then all of sudden, I have to leave," Ricky muttered, letting out a deranged chuckle at literally going back on his words.


    "And then this whole sht with my like, eight trillion abilities, that all have to center around that motherfcker over, having to center everything around the sword ''cause Alexander gets on my ass, every, single, time, and I''m just sitting here having to smile!" Ricky snapped, pointing off to the side at the Ebony Blade who raised his hands in mock surrender, not wanting to be drawn into this tantrum.


    Ricky''s eyes were strained, his hands balled into fists and the weight of everything, the expectations, the pressure, the endless complications, just bore down on him.


    It was like no matter how hard he tried to carve out his own path, someone or something was always pulling him back into their web of drama and control.


    SIGH


    "Like, what kind of dude just gets all this power and immediately knows what to do? ''Cause I don''t," Ricky said, his voice softer now, more reflective.


    He looked at the Ebony artifacts, his frustration momentarily giving way to vulnerability.


    They awkwardly rubbed their necks, unsure of how to respond to his honesty as Ricky exhaled a sharp breath, shaking his head.


    Just because he was strong, people assumed Ricky would have some five-course plan all neatly laid out for everyone to delight in.


    But Ricky didn''t know sh*t.


    He was the guy who went with the flow, reacting to whatever came his way, but now, he had to manage a criminal empire with meticulous planning, all while dealing with a constant stream of people trying to tear him down.


    It wasn''t just a day-to-day lackluster grind; it was survival, and he was barely holding it all together.


    "I don''t know what the fck I''m doing, I don''t know what''s about to happen when I portal us to fcking Britain, where I only went on a whim because my baby mama had her lesbian girlfriend hang herself there." Ricky ranted, frustration choking his voice, laughing at how convenient it was in the first place.


    "On a side note, it was just like super f*cked up, and I know she''s struggling, but like, how do I approach it?" Ricky suddenly derailed his rant, asking for advice towards literal weapons who were literally made of metal and have never known any other love that wasn''t battle.


    "Do I just go, ''Hey, baby, sorry the girl you''ve been dating for centuries went and hung herself, wanna go shopping?'' Like, how do I approach that?" Ricky asked, the ebony artifacts opening then closing their mouths since they were speechless.


    "Seriously, any tips? Like, I know I gotta go through this portal, and it probably won''t be that easy. Hell, I already bet my ass is about to get ambushed the second I step foot in that rat hole of a city." Ricky laughed, expecting it to be some showdown the literal second he steps into Britain.


    "Then I''m gonna have to go to Morgana''s castle, who I already know might f*cking betray me, but I''m still gonna hit it ''cause she''s hot." Ricky said personally, the ebony artifacts all looking at each other, unsure of how to even approach this spiraling conversation.


    "Then I''m gonna fight Merlyn or whatever, hear his sob story, then-AHHHHHHHHHHH!" Ricky yelled, gripping his hair, while the ebony siblings all looked at him, uncertain of how to react to his outburst.


    "Am I the crazy one? ''Cause I feel like I''m the crazy one," Ricky asked, his gaze shifting between the two ebony artifacts, who just stared at him in silence.


    "Y''know, maybe if I was a little more reasonable I''d really go through the steps, but I''mma need that power of yours, so you in or out?" Ricky asked, staring at the two ebony artifacts, who, oddly enough, seemed more concerned about Ricky''s deteriorating mental state than their own plans.


    "No?" they both said, as Ricky let out a laugh, rubbing his mouth before breaking into a manic chuckle as he exited his mental landscape.


    When he opened his eyes in the real world, he immediately threw the shield and the crown to the ground with a forceful clang and without a second thought, he unzipped his pants.


    "Fine, have it your way."


    2 minutes later,


    "Woah, that was the craziest stream," Ricky laughed, feeling a little lighter after finally relieving himself.


    He couldn''t even believe how long he''d been pissing, but the others around him weren''t concerned with the length of it, they were more impressed by the stream.


    Sniff


    "Oh man, that reeks!" Ricky laughed, walking up to the pissed-on ebony artifacts as he summoned a water spout and rinsed them off, the stream of water cascading over them.


    After giving them a quick rinse, Ricky touched both artifacts and closed his eyes as he could feel the two ebony objects curling up into a ball, shivering as if being violated.


    "How bout now?" Ricky asked, gazing at the horrified ebony artifacts who gazed back at him.


    "NEVER-"


    Before they could screech at him, Ricky let go of the artifacts and scanned the area as his gaze fell on Asterion, who was sniffing the nearby roses.


    "Aye, Asterion, could you do me a favor?" Ricky called out, his voice carrying a hint of casual command.


    Asterion turned, flashing a warm smile before looking away, his expression shifting to something more focused as he approached.


    "Of course, what do you need?"


    3 minutes later,


    Clap


    Clap


    Clap


    Ricky was currently clapping his hands, impressed by the sheer duration Asterion had just displayed, completely outlasting his own impressive performance as Alexander shook his head, as if they were amateurs in comparison.


    A bull''s bladder capacity is roughly 4.6 liters and can hold up to 26 gallons, but Asterion, being an enlarged pseudo-Demi God, could easily surpass that limit by miles.


    Sometimes he forgets, as his body can go actual days without needing to piss, only occasionally letting the gates flow when the pressure becomes too much to ignore.


    "The sweet scent of morning dew, oh, how today will not only rival, but triumph over the last," Asterion spoke beautifully, pissing on the ebony artifacts while reveling in the foggy morning.


    "Damn, Asterion, that was actually kind of beautiful," Ricky suddenly said, surprised by the poem, as Asterion smiled.


    "Thank you."


    "Are you, like, into poetry or stuff like that?"


    "I have been dabbling since I enjoy the beauty in every word."


    "Well, it''s rubbing off."


    "Why, thank you, Ricky."


    "You should pen that shit down, I''m serious, not even flattering you."


    "Then, I shall do that after I finish."


    They had a pleasant conversation, talking about Asteiron''s sudden hobby of poetry all while he dumped his bladder on these unruly ebony artifacts.


    5 minutes later,


    "Annnnnnnnnd, done." Asterion said warmly, adjusting his loincloth and stepping back. Ricky waved his hand at the stench, clearly unimpressed by the lingering odor.


    Instead of immediately washing the artifacts down, Ricky let the stench settle in, watching as it slowly began to taint the ebony surfaces.


    Even the Ebony Blade seemed to recoil, a strange sensation creeping into its being as the once proud artifacts, now soaked in the foulness, began to feel the weight of the situation.


    "Are you alright?" The Ebony Blade cautiously inquired, watching Ricky laugh maniacally as he glanced at the piss-stained ebony artifacts.


    "I mean, if they''re gonna piss on my goodwill then I''m gonna piss on them." Ricky simply said, looking down at the Ebony Blade with a crazed smile.


    ''I-I see.'' The Ebony Blade said, knowing he should say something but would rather not cross Ricky at this moment since his sanity was really called into question.


    "Now listen up, ''cause I ain''t repeating myself." Ricky bent down, his eyes locking onto the piss-soaked artifacts with a cold intensity.


    "You can b*tch and moan all you want, but here''s the thing, I don''t care."


    "I don''t care how hard your lives were and how devastating it is to part ways from your loving little sh*t of a creator, so I''ll make a deal with you." Ricky said, looking at them with a raised gaze.


    "You''ll help me defeat everyone in my path, then sit out the fight against Merlyn. Or I get every. single. one. in this goddamn castle to use you like toilets, and yes, it does mean sh*tting." Ricky undid his belt, slowly and methodically as if to really sow in the tension.


    "And I''ve got a real stinker cooking up if the words coming out are no." Ricky dropped his pants, his boxers revealed as he put his fingers around his waist band.


    "Now, flare your powers if you agree and if you don''t, well, I already have toilet paper on me-"


    WHOOSH


    The two ebony artifacts flared out their power in a heartbeat, not even sparing another second to even imagine what Ricky had in store for them.


    Clap


    "Good, ''cause I''m already uncomfortable with the fact that I gotta wear a crown and hold a shield that me and Asterion both pissed on. I''d rather not add the image of smearing my shit all over you too." Ricky clapped his hands, rubbing them together since truth be told, he really didn''t want to wear armor he took a dump on.


    "Uh, Boney and Chuck, could you two handle this? And make sure to really scrub between the grooves," Ricky called from the side, motioning to his two high-ranking undead.


    They were currently busy outfitting his makeshift undead army with weapons, specifically, the throwaway ones he''d gotten from the system earlier, which included:


    (Common Item) Wooden Shield: A simple, lightweight shield made of wood, providing basic protection in battle but vulnerable to heavy attacks. X 15


    (Common Item) Stone Knife: A primitive, yet reliable tool for cutting, skinning, or preparing food; it has a simple stone blade affixed to a wooden handle. X 45


    "I think this is a supreme task that should be fulfilled by Boney-"


    "No way." Boney suddenly interrupted Chuck''s intellectual speech, catching him off guard.


    "Why not, you always want to take the initiative?" Chuck questioned, scrunching his brows metaphorically since he was a skeleton.


    "For feeding on the souls of our master''s enemies, vanquishing the foes in his way, and condemning them to be my strength is where I take the initiative, not scrubbing pee pee off his equipment," Boney retorted, holding up a finger as if it was a matter of fact.


    "I like that one," Alexander chimed in from the side, holding up his gerbil-sized thumb as Ricky let out a deep sigh at the coming exchange.


    "Why-........why did you say it like that?" Chuck asked, squinting at Boney.


    "Like what?" Boney replied innocently, unable to understand what he did wrong this time.


    "Pee pee?"


    "Oh, because little Danielle calls it that."


    "Really?"


    "What do you call it?"


    "I call it what our master calls it, piss."


    "That does roll off the tongue better."


    "That is what I thought, but if it''s pee pee-"


    "How about this, you guys each take a piss-stained ebony thingy and go talk about it while rinsing it off?" Ricky asked without actually asking, watching the two skeletons exchange hesitant glances.


    "I call-"


    "I CALL DIBS ON THE CROWN!" Boney yelled over Chuck, thrusting his hand into the air as Ricky immediately pointed at him.


    "Sold."


    "What is this ''dibs'' you speak of?" Chuck recoiled in horror, left with the big ebony shield as Boney lightly picked up the crown.


    "Well, it''s-" Boney started, wandering off to the side while Ricky lounged around, waiting.


    Meanwhile, the witches and warlocks finally gathered after finishing their meals from the servants'' quarters.


    "All right, here''s the plan. We''re gonna teleport into Britain and-oh my god, what?" Ricky finally got to the point, eager to move past this hurdle and just get to Otherworld, only for a wizard, Dexter, to raise his hand.


    "In the middle of the day? Isn''t that too conspicuous?" Dexter asked, using a word big that Ricky didn''t exactly know.


    "No, it''s fine. Now-Jesus Christ, what?!" Ricky waved his hand in exasperation, only for Cedric to raise his own in return, clearly trying to buy time but also genuinely pondering another matter.


    "Do we have a cover story? One that we''ll use if anyone asks why a hundred men and women are gathered together in robes?" Cedric asked, bringing up a good point since these were the only clothes they brought and would probably stick out like sore thumbs.


    "I don''t know-ugh, we''re missionaries-"


    "We don''t look like missionaries," Eldric interrupted Ricky, eyeing his warlock attire.


    It actually had a slight resemblance to a priest''s robes, but the stubborn old man refused to acknowledge it.


    "Does it really matter? Seriously, does it really matter?" Ricky asked, laughing at how stupid this conversation was as his frustration, which had settled earlier, began to rise again as the coven all exchanged glances.


    "Yes." They all said in unison, showing how important it was to them even if it was insignificant to him as Ricky groaned, dragging his hand down his face.


    "Fine. We''re tourists from New York, all here as f*ck buddies to see Big Ben." Ricky said, pulling the first thought he had out of his ass since Morgana said the portal was in there, somewhere within it, at least.


    "Can we be from San Francisco?" one witch asked, practically bouncing with excitement at the idea, as Ricky lazily pointed at her.


    "Yeah, sure, whatever." Ricky waved his hands, completely unaware that he was about to ignite a heated debate.


    "If we get to pick where we''re from, I want to be Canadian," Another witch chimed in, grinning widely and raising her head.


    "F*ck that, I want to be from North Dakota."


    "No way, let''s be from Hollywood."


    "What about Florida?"


    Suddenly, their expedition came to a screeching halt as the entire group erupted into chaos, each one insisting on having their own specific place of origin.


    The witches and warlocks bickered, arguing over whether they should be from California, Canada, or somewhere else entirely, each person stubbornly defending their choice.


    The noise grew louder, with no sign of it dying down anytime soon and Ricky, standing at the front, ran a hand down his face in frustration.


    "I know it is frustrating, but let it play out." Alexander sighed, knowing just how difficult it can be to command so many voices since he had led entire legions with arguments like this before.


    The legions he had commanded had often been in worse disarray, men clashing over battle tactics, egos colliding over honor, and soldiers demanding better pay or better rations in the heat of a campaign.


    It was never easy to silence the clamor of many voices, but it was always necessary.


    A leader who didn''t understand when to let the storm rage and when to calm it would never find success as he had learned this in the trenches of war, and it had served him well.


    "Fine, I mean, how long can this take?"


    4 hours later,


    "ARE YOU F*CKING KIDDING ME!"


    Author''s Note: Yo, I know I went really into it with the cluster thing but I wanted to add my own twist when it came to the mutiverse cause I''m not saying their aren''t differnet worlds, there is, it''s like a web but every dot connecting them is like a cluster. Wanted to know if I got that across and if I didn''t just let me know. Also, I might just do a three-Chapter week since I really need to study on Monday, but after that, I should be good to return to normal.

 Chapter 179 -s Resuming Tommorrow

    Chapter 179 -s Resuming Tommorrow


    Just wanna say thanks to everyone for understanding my little break. Chapters will be resuming tomorrow, and I hope I didn''t f*cking fail my final and make all of this meaningless.


    Also, wanna say thank you for your continued support and your appreciation for my writing, cause I only stumbled across web novels by accident after I got really hammered playing Mass Effect.


    Then I was like, "F*ck, why aren''t there more Mass Effect stories and why doesn''t this crappy company due something with all this extensive ass lore?" and searched it up ''Mass Effect stories'' while clicking on this link to a FF about Krogans.


    This guy named JManM is the entire reason I got into webnovel and ff and sh*t like that.


    Then I just fell down the rabbit hole of smut. But once you go deep enough, you''re stuck with mediocre fics because so many good writers just stop. And it breaks your heart because you''re sitting there like, "What the hell did I do wrong for you to stop writing? I threw my fcking powerstones at you! WHAT MORE DO YOU FCKING WANT FROM ME?!"


    And then, eventually, you just forget about it but that ''what if'' lingers in the back of your mind.


    But if I''m being honest, I really only started this fic, and writing in general, outta pure spite.


    Cause, y''know, once you''ve read all the good sh*t, you''re stuck with the mediocre stuff, scraping the bottom of the barrel.


    And in my head, I was always like, "Man, this story f*cking sucks. Smut''s good though."


    So I just kept consuming this genre that usually lacks a plot, which is why I''m always super focused on creating a solid world that actually flows around the smut.


    I ain''t saying my sh*t''s the best, I''m just saying some people really f*cking suck.


    Like, I wanna read about the MC boning Rias Gremory, but why the hell do all these DxD smut fics have the same tired-ass plot?


    It''s always some dude cucking Issei after being born a high-ranking demon.


    Like, c''mon man, if ya gonna give me generic, do it solid or give me a twist before it just devolves into me only looking forward to just the smut, then I get bored.


    And for some reason, in the majority of them, the MC is Rias''s brother or some sh*t, meets her at an early age, and just straight-up grooms her.


    Like, what the actual f*ck?


    Also, man, I''m getting real tired of these MCs who are as bland as stale wheat bread.


    Like, give me some actual character development cause people literally grow from the smallest sh*t, like almost slipping in the shower and thinking, "Man, I should be more careful when I use shampoo." Or "Maybe I shouldn''t open my f*cking eyes while shampooing."


    Can a guy just appreciate the MC learning from his struggles once in a while?


    Like, damn, let me actually feel something instead of watching some overpowered husk f*ck his way through the story wtihout any walls or barriers.


    And if it''s like that, make me at least laugh.


    Anyways, I''m getting off topic, anyways thanks for liking how I write words.


    -LaughFiend

 Chapter 180 - 171: Captain Britain Corps

    Chapter 180 - 171: Captain Britain Corps


    "ARE YOU F*CKING KIDDING ME!" Ricky yelled all while laughing at the absurdity of it all, gazing at the coven completely divided.


    This united front had unknowingly split into two factions, one group becoming tourists from San Francisco, and the other missionaries from North Dakota.


    "You have to understand, this about principles-"


    "What principles, you''re an atheist, why do you want to be a missionary!"


    "THAT''S NOT THE POINT!"


    "ENOUGH!" Ricky''s voice thundered over theirs, silencing the squabble as they all turned to face him as the sun dipped behind him, casting long shadows as he reached into his pocket.


    "Heads or tails." Ricky said, holding up a quarter as both sides frowned, not wanting their precious sides reduced to a mere 50/50 split.


    "This-"


    "Heads. Or. Tails." Ricky wasn''t asking anymore as his tone carried the weight of finality, his patience long worn thin.


    The gathered warlocks and witches exchanged hesitant glances, their stubborn debate now at a standstill and slowly, their eyes drifted back to him, knowing they had no real choice.


    "Heads."


    "Tails."


    5 minutes later,


    Night crept in, yet the streets remained eerily empty, the only figures moving through the dimly lit paths being the gathered coven members.


    "This is suspicious," Cedric muttered, his eyes sweeping over the eerily vacant streets as it was too convenient, too unnatural, for an entire bustling city to be this empty.


    "Wow, good observation, Captain Obvious." Ricky laughed, striding forward without a care, masking the fact that he''d nearly had a mental breakdown just moments ago.


    Honestly, Ricky didn''t care anymore as he had long since stopped expecting the unexpected and instead kept his guard up all the time now, silently navigating the empty street.


    Ricky was already exhausted, his patience as thin as dental floss as he walked with a blood debt that he was desperate to cash in, eager to vent the accumulated stress clawing at his nerves.


    Huff


    Huff


    Huff


    The sound of ragged breaths reverberated through the empty street as a man burst from the corner, moving with unnatural speed.


    His entire body was drenched in blood, skin pale as death, head ducked low but what caught Ricky''s eye first were his fingernails, sharp, yellowed, almost claw-like as he charged straight toward him.


    "Hi, we''re missionaries from North Dakota-OUCH!" Dexter introduced loudly, only to get punched in the shoulder by a nearby warlock, who shot him a disapproving glare.


    The reason being when the man''s face jerked upwards, revealing his fangs, which protruded from his blood-soaked lips.


    His eyes, desperate and strained, locked onto Ricky, who simply raised an eyebrow in response.


    ''That''s it!'' The man thought, his pupils narrowing as he surged forward with a burst of superhuman speed, closing the distance in a flash.


    Reaching out his hand, it felt as if everything could be solved if his grimy, yellow fingernails could just grab onto the flesh of the man in front of him.


    In almost a second, the distance closed as he lunged, ready to sink his claws into his target.


    But just before his fingertips could make contact, he saw Ricky snarl, his eyes flashing with not fury, but disgust.


    BAM


    The vampire didn''t even register it at first as his face jerked to the side, a sharp crack echoing in the air, before the undead nerves in his cheek finally acknowledged the impact.


    Ricky''s fist had already crashed into his face, rippling the skin around his cheek with the force of the blow.


    The vampire was sent tumbling backwards, disoriented, his mind struggling to catch up with the sudden pain.


    "Clip your f*cking nails," Ricky spat, his eyes narrowing as he looked at the vampire in front of him.


    The man''s grotesque, yellowed fingernails seemed to be the least of his problems, but Ricky couldn''t help the disgust crawling up his spine at how this guy couldn''t trim his damn nails.


    "You-..........YOU BASTARD-" The vampire coughed up a mouthful of black blood, disoriented before regaining himself as rage flooded into his eyes before Ricky cocked back his fist once again.


    BAM


    CRACK


    Black blood flushed out of his nose, the vampire crumbling to the ground like a sack of potatoes before Ricky stood over him with a frown.


    "Why? Why would you just try to attack me again after I literally sent you tumbling seconds before?" Ricky genuinely asked, his voice laced with incredulity as he watched the vampire flailing around on the ground, clutching his face.


    "You broke my nose~" the vampire whined, his voice muffled as he winced from the pain, clearly more upset about the broken nose than the fact he''d just been knocked on his ass.


    "Hey, I''m not the bad guy here." Ricky muttered, raising up his foot and slamming it into the vampire''s stomach.


    "You."


    BAM


    "Are."


    BAM


    "Cunt."


    The vampire''s mouth coughed out with a mouthful of blood, the red liquid splattering against the cobblestones as he writhed in pain.


    He couldn''t even form coherent words, just gasping for breath as Ricky''s foot repeatedly slammed into his stomach.


    The fight had gone from ridiculous to downright pathetic, and Ricky couldn''t help but scoff at the vampire''s inability to even understand the situation.


    "Are you done?" A couple words sounded from the side, the tone feminine and yet, familiar but Ricky was too busy.


    "Yeah, hold on." Ricky muttered unconsciously, adjusting his attire before halting as that tone registered in his mind.


    "Well, how about that?" Ricky chuckled, turning towards the side to see a familiar woman he hadn''t seen in a while.


    It was then that, from Ricky''s perspective and that of the coven members, who had somehow become reluctant backseat spectators, an unexpected figure emerged.


    A woman slowly stepped out of the alley, drawing the attention of everyone around her.


    Rachael Van Helsing.


    "Hello, Ricky," Rachael chuckled, her smile warm and inviting as she effortlessly parted the coven members like the Red Sea, making her way toward him.


    "Oh, baby, how I''ve missed you," Ricky said, his voice laced with something between longing and impatience, stepping forward just before she could open those plump lips of hers.


    Ricky pulled Rachael into his arms, her protruding belly pressing against his, but he honestly didn''t care.


    His hands slid down her backside, landing on her two plump ass cheeks before squeezing firmly as he kissed her deeply, pushing his tongue into her mouth.


    Rachael laughed softly, wrapping her arms around his neck and leaning back as he leaned forward, their bodies melding together in a heated embrace.


    "I am confused, is he not with multiple women already-" Boney, dressed in robes to hide his skeletal appearance, asked only for Chuck to slap his head back down.


    "You fool, it is common for kings to have several dozen women within a harem, have you not read the sultan books I gave you!" Chuck yelled in a whispering tone, comparing Ricky to a sultan since only someone as impeccable as his master could be such a sovereign ruler with a harem of beautiful women.


    "No, I don''t read any of the books you give me, they''re boring and have no pictures." Boney said, adjusting his skull while promptly responding to him as Cedric felt uncomfortable.


    However, even though the other coven members shared this sentiment, Ricky was stronger than them all.


    As their beliefs held true, he could almost do whatever he wanted without much resistance.


    His power was something they could only admire and reluctantly obey, for the strong were allowed to make decisions that the weak had to accept.


    If any of them had a problem, all they had to do was be stronger than him to tell him otherwise but it was that reason that none of them spoke a single word, simply turning away and awkwardly whistling.


    "Is this guy bothering you, Ms. Rachael?" Suddenly, a voice called out from the alley, the figure of a small boy stepping out from the shadows.


    He appeared to be almost a teenager, dressed in a crew cut half top, his features clearly of African descent.


    But there was one unmistakable trait that set him apart, a pair of sharp, glistening fangs seeping from his lips as his eyes locked onto Ricky.


    However, his entrance to the scene was met with the slobbering sounds of Ricky continuing to stick his tongue down Rachael''s throat.


    Cough


    "Ms. Rachael," Eric coughed awkwardly, trying to get her attention as her eyelids barely fluttered open, and she side-eyed the disturbance before her eyes widened in recognition.


    "O-Oh, Eric, this is the man I was talking about!" Rachael said with an actual blush, surprising Eric who widened his eyes as he pointed at the man currently laying her neck with deep kisses.


    "Wait, this is Ricky Luciano, the guy who killed Draucla?!" Eric asked, his voice laced with shock, staring at the man before him, who looked more like a poon hound than a vampire slayer.


    "Aye, go buy a pack of cigarettes and get lost," Ricky muttered, tossing a crumpled twenty at Eric''s face, shooing him away.


    "I''m twelve," Eric replied flatly, his eyes widening as he watched Ricky casually grope Rachael, whose attempts to push him off were met with his chuckles.


    "And?" Ricky shrugged, his tone indifferent, since he had been binge drinking since he was eight and couldn''t see what the big deal was.


    "Stop," Rachael murmured, her words a plea, though her body betrayed her as she bit her lip, clearly missing his touch.


    "She doesn''t like that; you''re bothering her," Eric interjected, watching the scene unfold.


    "The only thing bothering her is you, you little cockblocker, so shut up and let me stick my tongue down her throat." Ricky sneered, not missing a beat as he kept his focus on Rachael.


    "I''m warning you, stop." Eric slowly bared his fangs, his brown eyes turning red as Ricky suddenly stopped, before laughing in this kid''s face.


    "Who''s the black kid?" Ricky asked in between chuckles, looking at Rachael who sighed and looked at him with a smile.


    "A friend of Abrahams."


    The words hung in the air, leaving Ricky momentarily speechless as he stared at her, his expression one of shock, before his face twisted, holding back laughter that threatened to burst out


    Snort


    "Seriously, who is he?" Ricky, barely holding back his laughter, asked Rachael again since Abraham didn''t have any friends.


    Sigh


    "I''m serious Ricky, Abraham had friends, one at least." Rachael tapped his cheek, chuckling as Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "What was he, a pedo in his spare time-"


    "HEY, WATCH IT!" Eric yelled, hissing at Ricky who looked at the kid as if gazing at the ant and then looked back at her.


    "Seriously, who''s the kid?" Ricky asked seriously this time, pointing his thumb to him as Rachael shook her head.


    "Way back in his youth, he became friends with a man known as Jamal Afari." Rachael said, stroking his cheek with an expression filled with longing.


    "No, he retired before¡ª" Eric began, speaking matter-of-factly, but his words trailed off as they caught in his throat.


    "He''s... missing," Eric finished, the weight of his words hanging in the air as it wasn''t a lie, but had some truth buried within it.


    Rachael''s gaze dropped to the floor, the realization settling in, while Ricky''s skill suddenly and without warning, buried into the truth.


    Revealing the image of Eric, surrounded by multiple women torn to shreds, he backed away in horror at the man he once knew, covered in their blood.


    "GET AWAY FROM ME!" An old black man roared, his fangs jutting out as an overwhelming bloodlust filled the air.


    In front of an even younger Eric, who slowly began to back away, the tension grew.


    "Old man, what''s-"


    "Go, GO BEFORE I-ARGHHHHHHHHH!" The old man''s voice cracked, almost changing into a guttural bloodlust as this man, who held up his hand for him to leave, was none other than his master, Jamal Afari.


    However, it seemed as though he was shedding his human form as his nails elongated into sharp blades, and his skin began to peel away, almost as if it were rotting.


    "N-No, I-I won''t leave you!" Eric said, however his body betrayed him as he toko three steps back in fear at what Jamal was becoming.


    "Ru-run-........so, so hungry~" Jamal begged, his voice twisting into a guttural growl, the desperation in it thick with an insatiable hunger that seemed only to be satisfied by the taste of human flesh.


    "Old man?" Eric asked, backing up into a wall as his chest heaved up and down as the old man he once knew was slowly shedding into a ghoul.


    "HUNGRY!" Jamal screeched, his teeth sharpening as he lunged towards Eric with the complete intent to devour him.


    BAM


    Within the next second, a beast lunged forward, delivering a heavy punch to Jamal''s stomach.


    The force sent him spiraling into the wall as the beast then side-eyed Eric, who flinched at the intense gaze but showed a warm smile to him.


    "Don''t worry Eric, I''m here to help you."


    ''God, this skill is such an unpredictable mindf*ck.'' Ricky thought to himself, weirdly recoiling at looking into the buried truth of Eric.


    "Aye, kid, I don''t know what kind of connection you and Rachael got, but let me save you the trouble, she''s never gonna be into you." Ricky said suddenly, uncaring about the kid''s trauma, figuring it wasn''t his problem.


    Besides, Rachael seemed more than capable of handling it herself.


    "Wh-WHAT?!" Eric stammered, his face flushing red, while Rachael let out a heavy sigh, shaking her head.


    "Oh, Ricky, no need to get jealous, he''s like my little brother," Rachael cooed, pinching Ricky''s cheek and speaking in a babyish tone, clearly patronizing him.


    "Ouch, way to let him down easy." Ricky laughed, side-eyeing Eric before his eyes formed into crescent moons and rested his head on her shoulders.


    ''Jealous?'' Ricky mouthed, watching the little kid go from red with embarrassment to red with anger.


    While Eric started throwing a tantrum, Rachael trying to appease him, and Ricky''s make-shift army standing awkwardly at the side, alone in the desolate street.


    Four figures slowly gathered atop Big Ben, their eyes fixed on the scene below as each of them held an orb that illuminated Ricky''s image, one that matched his sleazy appearance at that very moment.


    "That''s him, the villain?" one man with blue skin and a wagging tail asked, swishing it back and forth as a girl sitting on the edge, kicking her feet, tilted her head.


    "He doesn''t look so bad-"


    "He killed people, our people, innocent people," Another man said, stepping forward as he wore attire matching England''s flag, his chest puffed out and a shield to complement his outfit.


    "Brian is right, do not let your guard down." Another woman, blond hair and pointed ears spoke resolutely, joining Brian by his side as the blue skinned man rubbed the back of his neck.


    "Can''t we talk to him-"


    "Yeah, let''s at least hear him out-"


    "Kurt, Kitty, did we watch the same scene?" Brian asked the two, holding up that orb a little higher as it played that brutal video of Ricky slaughtering the Ordo Of Draconium.


    "Okay, geez~" Kitty ducked her head, feeling her stomach churn after seeing a small second of Ricky slicing through a man like butter.


    "He''s threat level red, we have to watch carefully." Brian said, squinting his eyes while looking towards Ricky once again kissing Rachael.


    "Kurt and Kitty, you will be back up, protecting me and Meggan from any head on attacks." Brian first ordered, showing himself to be the leader of this four man team as they all gazed back at him.


    "Don''t underestimate him or buy into his words, we are ordered to take him down and bring him back to the Starlight Citadel for his judgment." Brian ordered, turning back to Ricky before thinking up an approach to this fearsome Black Knight.


    "First we''ll-"


    While the plan was forming, Ricky was spinning Rachael around before lightly pecking her lips before holding her stomach.


    "How long were you gonna hide from me?" Ricky jokingly asked, watching Rachael chuckle before slightly turning away.


    "Until I made something of myself-"


    "Oh come on-"


    "I''m serious, Ricky," Rachael interrupted, cutting him off as she turned to look back at him.


    "After we parted, I was kind of lost, left with skills that revolved around hunting Dracula, hunting vampires," Rachael said softly, brushing her thumb in gentle circles on his cheek.


    "Don''t tell me you''re going after-"


    "No, I''m not going after Lilith, but I did join an order that hunts vampires." Rachael''s words, more specifically the one involving ''order'' made Ricky let out a heavy sigh.


    "Don''t tell me it''s like-"


    "No, no, no, it''s an organization Abraham founded with some other old vampire hunters to originally share information, but it evolved." Rachael chuckled, denying his thoughts they were like the Ordo Draconum.


    "It''s called the Order of Tyrana and-" Rachael began to say, but Ricky suddenly felt a vision coming on.


    This time, it wasn''t from his lie detection, but rather his skill, Temporal Insight.


    The combined power of Defensive Precognition and Heightened Awareness, consumed by the Eldritch abomination that birthed this enhanced skill, now manifested in unstable flashes, flashes that had almost never occurred before, but were happening now.


    "Team Excalibur, now!"


    The orders rang out, suddenly appearing above Ricky''s head, a shield hurtling toward him. Instinctively, he reached for his sword, but in that moment, he released Rachael.


    Then, that thing, Kurt, appeared next to her in a flash of blue, and in an instant, they both vanished.


    Boom


    Literally interrupting his own distorted vision, Ricky''s entire body surged with a green aura as his form began to convulse, black armor oozing from his skin.


    But this time, it was different from his usual black armor and instead of fighting, the Ebony Crown and Ebony Shield reluctantly yielded as his attire morphed into something new.


    His helmet, once smooth, now spiked upward, forming a crown with three pointed spikes.


    The armor itself ascended, inscribed with intricate designs that seemed to etch themselves into the minds of everyone who witnessed it as a black cape fluttered in the wind, completing the transformation.


    Then, to Team Excalibur''s horror, Ricky slowly turned toward them as his face was consumed by darkness, but his eyes gleamed a piercing green that highlighted only a complete and utter bloodlust that sent their entire skin in goosebumps.


    "Ricky? RICKY!" Rachael shouted, reaching out, but before she could get any closer, Ricky opened a portal.


    He pushed her, and the little cockblocker, into it before swiftly closing it behind him.


    BOOM


    His entire body erupted, not only in his green sovereign aura but also in the vibrant red energy of the Ebony Blade, crackling with traces of electricity.


    As he absorbed the Necronomicon into his being, the memories watching the process saw it merge with him as if they weren''t even worth the power it contained.


    "Do you guys wanna f*cking die?" Ricky asked in a low tone but it felt as if it boomed in the scenery, the only thing fluttering with the hearts of team excalibur was his cape.


    "Ricky!?" Cedric asked, holding up his hand to cover his face as RIcky wasn''t even using any other power except his will and it only held his rage.


    "RICKY STOP THIS AT ONCE-"


    "Get out of my way, I ain''t asking again," Ricky said, side-eyeing Eldric as he watched the old man recoil, his expression darkening.


    "Back away, NOW!" Eldric shouted, knowing immediately there was no reasoning with Ricky.


    The air grew tense, as the conversation seemed to drain everyone''s breath, indirectly affected by Ricky''s willpower.


    One by one, they escaped through their portals, until only Ricky remained.


    Gulp


    "T-That wasn''t in the orb!" Kurt gulped heavily, his finger shaking as Brian''s eyes became grave, squatting and putting his shield in front of him.


    "Team Excalibur, assemble-"


    BOOM


    An explosion rippled through the air, causing the four of them to scatter as they turned to see Ricky, his spectral arms pulling back the Sunflare Bow, drawing a void-fused arrow ready to fire once again.


    Whoosh


    Without a second''s hesitation, Ricky released the arrow from his bow, aiming directly at the blue-skinned man.


    The man instantly teleported, but Ricky''s green eyes flickered, and in one swift motion, he swung his sword backward.


    "ARCK!" Kurt, who had just appeared behind him, barely managed to dodge as Ricky''s sword seemed to skip through the space between them, leaving a deep gash across Kurt''s chest.


    "Merlyn sent you to take Rachael, didn''t he?" Ricky asked, his voice icy cold.


    The image of Rachael being ripped from his hands echoed in his mind, causing Kurt''s eyes to shrink in realization.


    "N-No we were just trying to get her away to a safe distance-"


    "NOW!" Brian roared, cutting off Kurt''s words as he lunged at Ricky with Meggan close behind.


    But Ricky was already swinging his sword, sensing the danger and reacting instantly.


    SPLAT


    The slash tore through Brian, his eyes widening in shock as his vibranium shield was sliced through like butter in the blink of an eye.


    Kitty, who had been jumping alongside him, quickly reached out, managing to stop the sword from piercing any deeper into his flesh.


    Her ability, phasing, allowed her to pass through solid matter by shifting her atoms through the spaces between the atoms of the object she was moving through.


    Normally, this would have allowed the Ebony Blade to pass harmlessly through her, as she expected.


    But this was no ordinary blade.


    This was a weapon forged to cut through anything, and that included her ability.


    Kitty''s eyes widened, her pupils reflecting the arc of Brian as blood sprayed out, his left arm completely severed at the elbow.


    "KURT!" Meggan yelled urgently, her words making Kurt flinch as he vanished in an instant, reappearing behind all three of them and teleporting them backwards to safety.


    "Huh?" Ricky suddenly hummed, looking weirdly at these four and Brian currently holding his decapitated right arm that was spewing blood.


    "Why didn''t you dodge? Are you really sent by Merlyn?" Ricky asked, his voice cold as he knew that if these four were truly sent by Merlyn, they should have known the Ebony Blade could cut through anything.


    "I-I thought-" Kitty began, but Brian raised his remaining hand, stopping her as he winked.


    "It''s fine, Kitty. I''m fine." Brian chuckled, conjuring golden energy that formed into a rope as he swiftly tied it around his severed arm, the makeshift bandage glowing with a faint aura.


    "We are from the Captain Britain Corps and we are here-"


    "So you are sent by Merlyn." Ricky got straight to the point, his words only highlighted by Alexander peeking out of his armor.


    "Quickly, Ricky, strike while they''re distracted. Let them talk themselves into their own demise," Alexander whispered, offering his advice as he eagerly watched the bloody mess of Brian, his eyes gleaming with excitement.


    "I know, I''m waiting for-"


    "DO YOU NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU''RE DOING!" Meggan roared, her words interrupting exactly what Ricky wanted as his simmer chuckle resounded in the desolated surroundings.


    "Defending myself?" Ricky asked, turning his back to them as if lowering his guard as she became infuriated by this statement.


    "YOU''RE A MURDER-"


    *WHOOSH


    "Er-r?"


    It was so sudden, unexpected, and completely caught everyone off guard, including Meggan, who looked down in shock at the gaping hole in her stomach, the void arrow still traveling behind her.


    BOOM


    The explosion from the arrow, which slammed into a nearby house, jolted the stunned members of Excalibur.


    The moment Ricky turned his back and they lowered their guard, he released the bowstring still being held by his spectral hands and fired an arrow straight through Meggan''s stomach.


    "MEGGAN!" Brian roared, his voice raw with grief as she collapsed to her knees, blood pouring from her wound and splashing onto her hand.


    She was in shock, desperately trying to press down on the wound, but her hands just passed through the hole, the blood slipping away as Kitty covered her mouth in disbelief.


    Kurt was frozen, his eyes reflecting the horror as Brian rushed toward her, reaching out, only for Ricky to suddenly lunge at her.


    With a burst of fire exploding behind him, his pyro-kinesis propelling him forward, he closed the distance with brutal speed while slashing the ebony blade through the air.


    Team Excalibur watched in stunned silence, a subtle current of red electricity flickered in their eyes.


    Brian reached out toward Meggan, but before his hand could touch her, the light flashed across her neck, an ominous sign of what was to come.


    WHOOSH


    His hand grasped nothing as her neck was severed in two as her head flew into the air, a look of horror frozen on her face, not even realizing that she had just died.


    "Ricky, the blue demon, on the right!" Alexander roared, his words jolting Ricky as he suddenly lunged towards Brian as Kurt snapped out of shock.


    Tears streamed down Brian''s cheek before Kurt vanished, the droplet continuing its descent until it splashed onto the ground and in an instant, Kurt appeared beside him, standing on his right side.


    SPLAT


    But Ricky wasn''t thrusting his sword towards Brian and instead, he drove it into the air on his right side, piercing straight through Kurt''s chest.


    Blood splattered as the blade tore through him, emerging from his back in a crimson spray.


    However, before Ricky could push the sword forward, Brian reached out and grabbed his wrist, his body humming with golden energy, amplified by the very country he stood in.


    The force of it was so overwhelming that Ricky struggled to pull his sword free as Kurt coughed up a mouthful of blood as Brian was literally burning his life force to stop him from killing his friend.


    CRUNCH


    Without hesitation, Ricky slammed his helmet into Brian''s nose, crushing it into tiny pieces but even then, he didn''t release his grip but instead squeezed down even harder.


    "KURT, THE AIR!" Brian roared, his voice echoing through the chaos and at his command, Kurt acted instinctively, and before they knew it, they were high above Britain, 5000 feet in the air.


    "JUST!"


    BAM


    CRUNCH


    "LET!"


    BAM


    CRUNCH


    "ME!"


    BAM


    "F*CKING MURDER HIM!" Ricky seethed, slamming the ebony shield into Brian''s face, mangling it into a bloody mess and still, Brian wouldn''t release his grip.


    Ricky''s fury burned deeper with each blow as the image of Rachael vanishing from his grasp, taken by the blue-skinned Kurt, seared into his mind.


    No matter what, Ricky couldn''t let it go.


    No one took what was his and walked away unscathed, no one.


    Even if it was just a vision, the thought of it drove him to violently bash Brian''s face into a bloody pulp as he was going to kill this guy whether he wanted it or not.


    Ricky brutally hammered Brian''s face, the force of the blows sending them spiraling from a height that would have killed most people.


    As they fell, Brian, known on this Earth as Captain Britain, had blood spraying out, splattering onto Kurt Wagner, the blue-skinned demon who had been both an ally and a friend.


    "Run~" Brian gasped, his voice strained as he could no longer hold on.


    Kurt''s eyes widened in shock, but Ricky suddenly paused, a realization hitting him as the bow on his back seemed to hover above him at this thought, as he quickly nocked an arrow.


    WHOOSH


    The arrow shot out, but instead of striking Kurt''s flesh, it tore through the blue smoke as Kurt vanished with a snap of a finger.


    "F*CK!" Ricky yelled in frustration, cursing himself for getting too caught up in pummeling the man.


    With a growl, he planted both his feet on Brian''s body and pushed off, propelling himself away from the man''s hold while still falling in the air.


    Brian, now realizing Kurt was gone, smiled warmly as his life force began to fade into the depths of death.


    Ricky, with a fierce expression, wound up his bow and fired an arrow directly into Brian''s head as it exploded on impact, consuming him in a burst of darkness.


    BAM


    BAM


    Brian''s headless body fell limply, crashing against nearby buildings as it spiraled through the air like a pinball, leaving destruction in its wake.


    The lifeless form bounced off the walls, each impact punctuating the brutal finality of the moment before he smacked into the ground with a gruesome thud.


    "RICKY DO NOT LET THEM ESCAPE-" Alexander yelled from his shoulder, his urgency papable as he knew first hand what happens when a formiable enemy is allowed it regroup.


    "I KNOW!" Ricky roared, his voice a storm of frustration and fury as his eyes locked on Kurt, who reappeared next to Kitty, his body battered and limp from the previous wound.


    Despite his exhaustion, Kurt reached out toward Kitty, his hand shaking as the girl was completely terrified, frozen in shock after watching Ricky dismembering her best friends.


    Ricky''s vision blurred with rage at the thought of this guy vanishing away made his veins in his neck feel like they were on fire, blood vessels threatening to burst from the pressure of his fury.


    His grip on the sword tightened, muscles straining with the raw force of his intent as his entire body exploded with a fierce red lighting.


    With all his might, Ricky pulled back his sword, eyes narrowing into a fiery blaze of determination.


    His arm swung forward, putting everything he had into cutting through the distance between them with the pure, unrelenting intent to kill Kurt.


    The Ebony Blade carried the weight of his anger, the sheer fury of his refusal to let Kurt escape.


    Every ounce of strength, every drop of his rage, coursed through his body and into the strike.


    The air itself seemed to wail as the cursed blade tore through it, a force so absolute that reality seemed to bend for just a moment.


    "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Ricky roared, his voice raw, tearing from his throat like a beast unchained.


    His body burned as the red electricity swarmed around him like a budding tornado of locusts, his muscles screaming, but through all the pain, that memory of Rachael vanishing forced his grip to tighten through it all.


    The Ebony Blade carried his fury, his sheer refusal to let them escape, and the world itself seemed to recoil from the force of his will that sliced through it.


    A thin, deathly line rocketed through Kurt just as his fingers brushed against Kitty''s in a perfect, absolute swing.


    For a single, frozen moment, everything was still as the red electricity coursed around Kurt''s form that was submering into a blue smoke.


    BOOM


    The explosion of power detonated outward, consuming the space where Kurt and Kitty had stood.


    The red electricity twisted and coiled like a furious storm, illuminating the battlefield in erratic bursts of crimson light.


    It was not just an attack, it was a desperate, all-consuming refusal to let them go.


    For a heartbeat, Ricky thought he had done it, that his blade, his rage, his his relentless will had severed Kurt''s escape before it could fully take hold.


    But when that spell of electricity vanished, there was only one thing.


    Emptiness.


    The smoke dissipated, leaving behind nothing but scorched air and the echoes of crackling energy.


    No bodies.


    No victory.


    No satisfaction.


    BAM


    Ricky''s body crashed into the ground, sending debris flying in all directions as a thick cloud of smoke billowed into the air.


    When it finally cleared, he was hunched over, chest heaving, breaths ragged and sharp.


    But something had changed.


    The usual deep green of his eyes had been consumed by a violent shift, one pupil now burned a searing, bloodthirsty red as a single realization tore through his mind like his ebony blade.


    They were gone.


    "F*************************CK!" Ricky roared out his curses, his voice raw with fury.


    Rage exploded from within him, an uncontrollable force that threatened to consume everything in its path.


    His body pulsed with surging energy, green and red intertwining in a volatile storm, his very essence teetering on the edge of sanity of mindless berserk rage.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    "F*CKING DAMMMMMMMMMIT!" Ricky bellowed, his body erupting in another volatile wave of energy before it suddenly dissipated, leaving only the sound of his ragged, heaving breaths.


    "Good, control it." Alexander murmured from his shoulder, unshaken by the display as he knew Ricky had the strength to harness what would drive lesser men to madness.


    As Ricky''s chest rose and fell, his breath heavy with lingering fury, the storm within him teetered between chaos and control, until he slowly slowed his breathing.


    "It''s all in the breathing!" Asteiron called out from the side, peeking from behind a streetlight as he had been there the whole time, unsure if his assistance was needed or if he would only get in the way.


    "Ha~" Ricky let out a breathy laugh, ripping off his helmet as he tilted his head back, eyes fixed on the sky with a manic glint.


    "I can''t believe I let him get away, f*ck!" Ricky''s laughter twisted into a snarl, his expression darkening as frustration carved itself deep into his features.


    "If it makes you feel better, those types are my weakness!" Asterion called out again from behind the same lamp post, offering Ricky some moral support with an easy chuckle.


    Asterion was a relentless and pure fighter, excelling only against opponents optimized for close combat.


    However, powered individuals like Kurt or those with incredible speed were his absolute weakness, something that made Ricky sigh.


    "Is it weird that it does?" Ricky''s frustration melted slightly, his chuckle returning, more genuine this time.


    "Not at all." Asterion grinned, his own laughter joining Ricky''s.


    Alexander watched the two of them before puffing out his furry chest with exaggerated pride.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Alexander''s booming laughter drowned them out, shaking the air around them, until it suddenly stopped.


    "I don''t get it," Alexander said shamelessly, holding up a paw toward the sky while striking a dramatic pose.


    Ricky and Asterion exchanged a glance, then burst into laughter again.


    Sigh


    "Damn~" Ricky sighed heavily, falling onto his ass and slicking his hair back while sheathing the ebony balde.


    "Is something the matter?" Asteiorn asked, seeing the mood shift as Ricky just chuckled.


    "It''s nothing, it''s just-"


    "I''ve just been acting like some hormonal chick on her period." Ricky sighed, slicking his hair back in an attempt to calm himself.


    "Everything has been so stressful, but ironically enough, my mind hasn''t felt clearer than it does right now." Ricky realized since after being overwhelmed with frustration for so long, actually venting it out in that fight left him feeling better.


    "Roses do not bloom through the comfort of a soft bed, but through a prickly bush of thorns," Alexander said poetically, patting Ricky''s cheek from his shoulder as he chuckled at the gesture.


    "Indeed, after all, you are only one man." Asterion chimed in, adding to Alexander''sbeautiful statement that he made a mental note of it.


    "It is natural for you to feel like you have to bear this weight, and I wish I could tell you what to do," Asterion explained, his voice steady yet regretful.


    "But honestly, I think this is a path you must walk alone." Asterion wanted to offer guidance, but in the end, this was something Ricky had to come to terms with himself.


    "Yeah, I guess you''re right, but I think I need to just relax and stop f*cking whining and get sh*t done." Ricky said, looking upwards since it felt like he had been putting it off for too long.


    But I think a part of that had to do with the fact that Ricky had gotten too comfortable.


    Power had a way of making people soft, and even though he''d never admit it, he didn''t feel as sharp as he was against Dracula.


    The hunger that once drove him into this brutalizing figure almost had dulled at the edges, blunted by indulgence, luxury, and the ease that came with the things being handed to him.


    Still, deep inside, right here and right now, there was a gnawing feeling, something restless and unsatisfied.


    Ricky wanted to be the leader, the man everyone thought he was but he was beginning to realize that he didn''t just want to sit on a throne.


    He wanted to keep building, keep climbing, keep proving that he was the kind of man who didn''t just take power but held onto it with a grip that could break bones.


    Because for all his bravado, all his swagger, Ricky had forgotten what it meant to bleed.


    To struggle.


    To lose.


    Power had insulated him, wrapped him in a cocoon of control where people bowed before him, not because they had no choice but to respect what he had grown from.


    But in that bubble, he''d grown careless, mistaking dominance for invincibility, mistaking comfort for progress.


    That distorted vision, that reel that continuously played like a loop in his head, even now, watching Rachael get ripped from his grasp sent a jolt through his chest, a feeling he hadn''t experienced in a long time.


    It was like losing Abraham all over again.


    Like watching Henry fall.


    Like that slow, sick realization creeping in, the one that told him, despite everything, he wasn''t untouchable.


    He wasn''t beyond suffering.


    And worst of all, he wasn''t beyond losing the things he cared about.


    His fingers curled into fists, nails digging into his palms before he loathed this feeling, this weakness.


    It made him feel like he was slipping, like he was falling back into the person he thought he''d outgrown, the boy who used to let sh*t happen to him instead of making it happen to everyone else.


    It was at this moment the coven members all slowly started to trickle back into the scene, because this wasn''t just a fun little party, this was real.


    Sometimes, life isn''t about the battles or the victories, it''s about the spaces in between.


    The uphill struggle, the triumphant peak, the inevitable descent and then, the flat ground.


    That quiet stretch where you walk from one mountain to the next, one adventure to another, one war to the one waiting just over the horizon.


    Everyone here, whether it was that lowly warlock, just a flicker on the world''s radar, or Dexter, whose name would be forgotten by history, or even Ricky, whose presence was starting to cast longer and darker shadows, they all felt it.


    That same realization sinking into their bones.


    Life, up until now, had felt unremarkable.


    Comfort had dulled the edges of their existence, turned the pages of their stories blank, stripped their words of meaning.


    The fire that once drove them had burned low, leaving only embers.


    But maybe that was the point.


    Maybe it was the lack of flavor that made this moment taste sharper.


    Maybe it was the stillness that made this step feel heavier.


    Maybe, just maybe, the emptiness before was the only reason they could truly see what lay ahead.


    And what lay ahead was Big Ben.


    No more words of rebuttal needed to be said.


    No back-and-forth excuses as they argued amongst each other to escape those fears they had long since buried.


    They were ready.


    That fight, watching from the sidelines, feeling the weight of it settle in their chests, and Ricky experiencing it firsthand, had shaken them.


    It had torn them from the numbing embrace of comfort, stripped away hesitation, and left them with only one choice.


    Forward.


    Up the hill.


    "I know it''s been hard." Ricky suddenly turned around, his back revealing the entire coven, silently gathered without a word of debate.


    "F*ck, it''s been hard for me too." Ricky laughed, looking down, shedding that skin of invincibility, that illusion of being larger than life.


    "But this is real. All of this is real." Ricky raised his arms, Big Ben looming in the distance, its presence undeniable.


    Alexander slowly smiled, and the rest of the coven didn''t just look at Ricky.


    They looked up to him.


    "The pain is real, the fear is real and yet, we''ve forgotten, hell, I''ve forgotten."


    "I forgot what it felt like to hurt, to have a wedge driven into my side with every step forward. I forgot that FEAR!" Ricky gripped his chest, his fingers digging in as if trying to rip the feeling out of himself.


    The coven members stood rigid, some biting their lips, others shifting uneasily, the weight of his words pressing down on them.


    "We went through so much, all of us gave everything at that castle, and then what? We settled into New York and forgot!" Ricky''s voice rose, the anger he had been swallowing now spilling out, raw and real.


    And that anger, it was contagious.


    A slow burn in the eyes of those who had once fought by his side, now stirring, now remembering.


    "We forgot what it was like to feel fear. And when that monster showed up on our shores, we weren''t ready, goddammit, I wasn''t ready!" Ricky''s voice cut through the night, his chest rising and falling as he scanned the faces before him.


    The coven members ducked their heads at first, guilt gnawing at them, but slowly, their gazes lifted, drawn not by obligation, but by the sheer weight of his words.


    Here he was, Ricky Luciano, the man at the pinnacle of their belief system, standing raw and exposed before them.


    He wasn''t preaching from a throne, wasn''t barking orders from above, right now, he was one of them.


    And in that moment, his vulnerability made them feel seen.


    "I thought I was pissed at myself because of all the stress I was dealing with, but that''s not it." Ricky exhaled sharply, shaking his head.


    "I''m angry, angry that I let it happen. Man, I''m furious that Merlyn sent that thing into a city where my kids live. Where your kids live. Where your families live. Where the Luciano family lives. Where we all LIVE!" Ricky''s voice carried, stronger now, the confession spilling from him like a weight finally lifted, it wasn''t just stress, it wasn''t just the pressure of leadership.


    It was personal, that thing got too close, to his woman, his kids, his blood.


    What if Ricky hadn''t been there?


    What if that thing had torn through New York unchecked, leaving nothing but blood and ruin in its wake?


    The thought made his blood boil, it had happened under his watch, right under his nose, and he had only just realized it now.


    It drove him mad.


    "How much more will we let him take from us?" Ricky''s voice thundered, his chest heaving with rage.


    "From YOU?!" Ricky arm shot out, pointing at the coven, at the witches and warlocks who had once stood with pride but now clenched their fists, their knuckles turning white.


    "They treated your coven like spare f*cking parts, and you LET THEM!" Ricky roared, the raw fury in his voice cutting through the air like a blade.


    "You let them take everything from you while telling yourselves that you''d get your revenge one day." Ricky''s glare swept over them, daring them to deny it, daring them to keep swallowing the lies they''d told themselves for so long.


    His voice dropped, but it hit harder than ever.


    "Today is that f*cking day."


    Something ignited.


    A long-buried hunger, an anger that had been dulled by time and comfort, now it burned, searing through them like wildfire.


    The coven didn''t just hear Ricky''s words.


    They felt them.


    They all thought they had joined for revenge but deep down, that wasn''t the truth.


    They had joined to escape, to run from that worthless feeling that clawed at them when they got home, when they sat alone with their thoughts, when they realized that nothing they did could fill the hollow space inside them.


    And what had they done since leaving their old lives behind?


    Just complain.


    They complained to Ricky, they complained to each other, they filled the silence with empty words, avoiding the truth until it caught up to them, until it cornered them and forced them to look in the mirror.


    "I ain''t begging you to follow me, I just won''t."Ricky exhaled, shaking his head as his voice was low, steady, but it carried a feeling of resignation.


    "I ain''t begging you to throw away your lives for me. I ain''t even asking you to chase my petty revenge." Ricky let the words settle, let them feel the space between them.


    "I''m just gonna ask one question. One question that''s driving me forward right now." Ricky''s eyes locked onto them, unwavering, and holding one, single finger.


    "Can you live with yourselves if you turn away from the very thing that makes you feel small right now?" Ricky asked, his voice thick with the weight of the question, one that mirrored the shadow Merlyn had seemingly cast over him.


    "Cause I can''t." Ricky''s voice rang out, resolute as his eyes burned with a fierce clarity, like a man who had finally seen the path ahead and refused to look back.


    "I''m done trying to mitigate that drive to push all of you forward. I''m done flipping coins over stupid disagreements, and I''m done avoiding Merlyn." Ricky''s words cut through the tension like a knife, each sentence a declaration of his own reckoning, his refusal to remain stagnant any longer.


    "But the real question is, are all of you done avoiding Merlyn?" Ricky glanced over them, his gaze fierce and unwavering.


    There was no more room for doubt, no more space for hesitation, only action.


    "If so, then come with me." Ricky took a step forward, his presence commanding, his energy undeniable, his leadership solidified.


    "If not, just leave." Ricky''s words softened, but there was no mistaking the finality in them.


    Ricky was done asking others to follow him, he was done with waiting, done with second-guessing.


    He knew what he wanted, and he knew exactly how he was going to get it.


    Sure, there would be struggles, setbacks, moments of doubt, but if he succeeded, if he finally reached that pinnacle of power he''d been chasing, and when he finally turned back, only those who followed down his path would be the only ones to reap the rewards.


    He wasn''t going to waste time trying to convince anyone anymore.


    If they were on board, fine.


    If they weren''t, that was on them.


    He had come too far to let worthless arguments or petty grievances slow him down now.


    Ricky would pander when he had to, sure, but only for the moment, never letting it hold him back.


    He had bigger plans, and nothing, not even the distractions of others, would stand in his way.


    It was time for action, time for results, and finally wasn''t looking back, he was looking forward.


    Towards that peak.


    And Alexander smiled, a knowing, almost proud expression crossing his face.


    He''d been through it himself, watched the transition from hesitation to clarity, from doubt to resolve.


    It wasn''t something that could be taught; it had to be experienced firsthand.


    Only then could you truly understand the weight of commitment, the power of certainty.


    Ricky had finally crossed that threshold, and Alexander could see it in his eyes as that hunger was back, sharper than ever.


    He had stopped chasing approval and started chasing something much greater, his own vision, his own truth.


    It was the only way forward.


    He didn''t need to say anything, Ricky had already made his choice, and Alexander knew that from here on out, Ricky was going to stop asking for permission to lead.


    "Chuck-"


    "Already on it, master." Chuck''s voice echoed through the room, the dark, hollow chuckle reverberating in the silence.


    As he spoke, the headless bodies of Brian and Meggan lay sprawled on the ground, leaking out puddles of blood that Boney was using as paint.


    Boney, standing nearby, was hastily drawing blood runes on the floor, sloppy work, but done nonetheless as Ricky watched them, his gaze steady as he took in the scene.


    These were heroes, he knew that much.


    They had probably saved countless lives, fought for something greater than themselves.


    But now, as they lay there, defeated, broken, and Ricky couldn''t help but feel the weight of their history pressing on him.


    They were good people once, but they were in the wrong place at the wrong time and now, they were nothing more than a stepping stone on his path.


    It didn''t matter that they were heroes.


    The power in his hand was what mattered, the power that could shape the world as he saw fit, and the power to turn these heroes into his undead.


    "Get up."


    The runes began to glow with a sickly green light, their energy pulsing as the headless bodies of Brian and Meggan twitched violently.


    But even as those bodies writhed, the other half of Team Excalibur was facing their own nightmare.


    Kurt, the blue-skinned teleporter, had actually fallen victim to Ricky''s attack.


    His teleportation abilities had been disrupted, and as he attempted to shift, the ebony blade cut through his mutant power as his lower body was completely vaporized, his legs becoming lost in the moment where he crossed dimensions to teleport, probably still there drifting into nothingness.


    Right now, they were at a cliff side as Kitty stumbled forward, staggered and fell flat on her face before crawling forward towards him.


    "Kurt! KURT!" Kitty''s panicked scream rang out, her voice cracking with desperation as she tried to reach him, to save him, but it was too late.


    Kurt was already lying in a pool of his own blood, his body twisted and mangled beyond recognition.


    Yet, in his eyes, there was something unexpected, peace.


    He wasn''t crying, wasn''t struggling.


    He was calm, his fingers gently tracing the cross necklace he always wore during missions, a symbol of his faith.


    His thumb rubbed over the grooves of the cross slowly, as if savoring a final moment of connection.


    "I do not fear death," Kurt murmured softly, his voice barely above a whisper.


    "I am ready."


    Kurt couldn''t save everyone, he couldn''t save Brian and he couldn''t save Meggan, but he saved Kitty.


    That was enough and as his words hung in the air, a calm acceptance of what was happening took root in his very soul.


    The fight had taken so much from them, but for Kurt, this was the end of the road.


    He had lived with a purpose, and now, that purpose had led him here.


    There was no regret, no anger, just peace.


    However Kitty stood frozen, unable to process the weight of it all.


    The loss, the brutality, the inevitability of death since it wasn''t just Kurt she had lost; it was the whole idea of what they had fought for, everyone close friend she had made, gone by the hands of a man once called a hero just like her.


    Sniff


    Hic


    Kitty''s heart pounded in her chest as she crawled desperately toward Kurt''s mangled body, the blood pooling beneath him and staining her hands.


    She could barely hold back the tears, each one feeling like a weight she couldn''t lift as she placed her hand gently on the back of his head, her fingers trembling as she cradled him in her arms.


    Kurt''s smile, even in the midst of death, was a soft and warm thing.


    His eyes, though growing dull, held a kind of peace that made the situation feel all the more tragic.


    Kitty bit her lip, the words trapped in her throat, but she knew she couldn''t leave without saying what was in her heart.


    "Goodbye, Kurt," Kitty whispered through a choked sob, her voice quivering with sorrow, disbelief, and the depth of the pain she felt.


    Kurt tried to respond, his lips parting, but the words never came as his smile faded slightly, the life draining from his eyes with the steadiness of a candle burning out.


    He attempted to speak again, but his voice fading into nothingness, but the air was thick, heavy, and it was clear his time had passed.


    Kitty would never know what Kurt was trying to say and because of that, it would forever haunt her.


    Kitty held him tighter, pressing her face into his chest, feeling the coldness of his body seep into her skin.


    A quiet sob racked through her body, the fog of the night surrounding them as her tears fell freely.


    She didn''t care about the blood staining her hands or her clothes.


    All that mattered was Kurt, the man who had fought so hard, who had always been so strong, even in the face of death.


    To save her.


    She pulled him into her embrace, wishing she could turn back time, wishing she could stop the inevitable.


    But she couldn''t, all she could do was hold him in this final moment, mourning the loss of a friend, a comrade, and the pieces of her own heart that were now gone with him.


    And as the fog rolled in, and the fight around them continued, Kitty whispered through her tears, barely able to breathe through the pain.


    "I love you, Kurt."


    DING


    (Legendary Servant) Brian Braddock, The Headless Dullahan: Once Captain Britain, Brian Braddock is now The Headless Dullahan, a fearsome undead who is capable of commanding an army of undead. Unable to attain his full potential due to his lack of head, his sorrow because of it is turned into a scythe that he carries in hand, he is a harbinger of death.


    Abilities:


    Soul Reaping Scythe: A weapon able to sever and damage souls, able to piece through connections with a single strike.


    Necrotic Aura (Passive): Drains the life force of enemies nearby.


    Ethereal Command (Passive): Commands undead with ease, bending them to his will.


    (Epic Servant) Meggan Puceanu , The Wraith Steed: Transformed into The Wraith Steed, Meggan now serves as Brian''s ethereal mount, her skeletal form bound to him. Her head floats beside her, a constant presence. Though no longer human, their bond as lovers endures beyond death.


    Abilities:


    Necrotic Charge (Passive) : Gallops across the battlefield, sending waves of necrotic energy that drain life from enemies.


    Necrotic Empathic Metamorph: Able to control her form into any rideable form for her rider.


    Storm of Despair (Passive) : Conjures storms of shadow and grief, sapping the will of enemies.


    Undead Bond: Shares Brian''s necrotic powers, amplifying his aura, and they fight as one entity, bound by love and death.


    Ricky raised an eyebrow at the summon, recognizing the possibility of two beings merging, but he''d never seen it done quite like this.


    "Kill me~" Corpse Collolious moaned from the side, as always, repeating its incessant, pitiful plea.


    It had become so habitual that Ricky, along with the rest of his undead servants, had long since tuned it out as it was the only thing it ever said, a ceaseless echo of desperation.


    With a brief, almost dismissive wave of his hand, Ricky gave a silent command as his newest creation, the Dullahan, mounted its wraith-steed with a slow, deliberate grace.


    The skeletal knight took its place in the ranks, joining the growing army without a sound.


    Ricky''s gaze swept over the group, his eyes briefly lingering on each member of the coven.


    They all stood in unison, their decision clear without a single word spoken as he didn''t need a grand speech this time, there was no need for empty promises or dramatic proclamations.


    A single nod was all it took, a quiet acknowledgment of their shared purpose.


    With that, he turned his back to them and began his slow walk towards Big Ben, the looming structure in the distance serving as both a symbol and a destination.


    The others fell in line behind him, their footsteps echoing in the desolate streets as they marched together, determined and unified.


    The world around them may have been broken, but they were moving forward.


    As the scene played out in Merlyn''s orb, he watched intently, his expression shifting from intrigue to subtle annoyance.


    He pinched his chin thoughtfully, dragging his hand down to his beard, a frown deepening across his face.


    The sight of Brian and Meggan being converted into the undead didn''t bother him, not at all.


    It seemed that he was more frustrated with the fact that he only managed to claim two of them.


    It was a pitiful return for all the effort that had been put into preparing that skirmish.


    But that wasn''t what really gnawed at Merlyn''s mind, no, what truly unsettled him was the sight of Ricky.


    It wasn''t the power, the brutality, or even the resolve that Ricky had shown during the fight with Team Excalibur, it was something else.


    As Ricky and the coven made their way toward Big Ben, something about the way he carried himself lingered in Merlyn''s thoughts.


    ''It''s not enough.''


    The disappointment was palpable, hanging heavy in the air as Ricky''s fight, his strength, his resolve, they all felt like scraps to Merlyn.


    It was as if he had expected something more, something grander from this piece of the puzzle.


    As he contemplated this, a flicker of thought crossed his mind, leading his gaze to a single, twisted branch that seemed to stand out from the rest.


    His eyes narrowed in frustration, and with a quick, deliberate motion, he opened a portal.


    A hand emerged from the rift, long fingers reaching out with an eerie precision, as if responding to some silent command.


    Merlyn''s hand brushed against it lightly, placing that twisted branch on those horrid fingertips.


    He let go, and the hand receded back into the portal, leaving only the chilling whisper of its presence behind.


    "Fate is what I decide, not you." Merlyn''s voice was quiet but firm, the words carrying the weight of someone who believed in their absolute control over destiny.


    He wasn''t about to let anyone dictate the course of events when he could shape fate itself, or at least, that is what he believed.


    Arriving atop the spiraling tower of Big Ben, Ricky and the coven stood before an unexpected sight.


    Instead of the typical light fixture that would normally adorn the tower, a glowing orb of light hovered in midair, its brilliance the true source of the tower''s illumination throughout the night.


    The orb was mesmerizing, its light pulsing with a life of its own, casting an ethereal glow across the surrounding cityscape.


    Ricky felt an odd pull toward it, an irresistible attraction as if he were a moth drawn to its radiance.


    His gaze fixed on it, something deep inside him awakening in response and Alexander, too, stood transfixed on his shoulders, his pupils dilating as he stared at the orb with a mixture of awe and curiosity.


    Asterion, usually enamored with literally everything, stopped what he was doing and took a moment to admire the beauty of the orb, his breath catching in his chest.


    Without a word, Ricky reached out, his hand hovering just above the glowing sphere, then touching it lightly and the instant his fingers made contact, everything shifted.


    The air hummed, a strange energy crackling around them and suddenly, the cacophony of the urban world fell silent, replaced by the soft sounds of birds chirping.


    Ricky''s eyes darted around, searching for the source of the noise, only to be greeted by an astonishing sight.


    Before him stretched a lush, verdant paradise; fields of green, towering trees, and vibrant flowers, all rising from the very ground beneath their feet.


    The landscape seemed to have sprung from the earth itself, wild and untamed.


    It was so vivid, so full of life, it felt like a stark contrast to the cold, industrial reality of Britain.


    The beauty of the scene was overwhelming, as if they had stepped into a dream, a world untouched by time and human hands.


    The lush greenery seemed to pulse with life, the ground itself teeming with the kind of vitality that could only exist in a place free from corruption and decay.


    It was as if the orb had opened a door to another world entirely, a world where nature and life reigned supreme.


    This was Otherworld.


    "Greetings, Ricky and his compatriots." A voice echoed from the side, drawing Ricky''s attention.


    He turned to see an undead skeleton, its bones blackened with age and damage, and its hollow eye sockets ablaze with a flickering green fire.


    "I am Jenkins, the esteemed butler of Her Majesty Morgana Le Fey." Jenkins'' voice was deep and measured, with a formal tone that carried an air of quiet authority.


    "I am here to be your esteemed guide."


    Author''s Note: Sorry if the chaps leading up to this felt a little boring but I kinda wanted to really exemplify how sometimes, sh*t is normal and a pinch bit boring, maybe I went overbaord and It didn''t reall bring the effect I wanted but that was the reason, anyways enjoy.

 Chapter 181 - 172: Valley Of Whispering Mists

    Chapter 181 - 172: Valley Of Whispering Mists


    "You''re Jenkins?" Ricky said, pointing at the undead skeleton who bowed in a refined manner.


    "Yes, Sir Ricky," Jenkins replied, his hollowed-out voice carrying an eerie calm.


    He recognized Ricky by the knightly armor, and Ricky couldn''t help but notice the butler''s composed posture.


    "And you''re the butler-oh sh*t~" Ricky''s words trailed off as realization hit him, his eyes widening in shock.


    "Is there anything troubling you, Sir Ricky?" Jenkins asked, wondering if there was something wrong with how he addressed Ricky.


    "Yeah, when I pushed Rachael out of the way, I instinctively sent her to Transylvania." Ricky sighed, rubbing his forehead in frustration as he could already feel the impending chaos that would come from this mistake.


    He looked over at Asterion and Alexander, both of whom exchanged a knowing glance as their faces contorted in understanding, as if they both instantly grasped the gravity of the situation.


    Lilith and Rachael were fully aware of each other''s existence but despite both sharing a connection to Ricky and forming relationships with him, they couldn''t stand each other.


    "It''ll be fine, right?" Ricky asked, glancing at Asterion and Alexander, both of whom looked away, rubbing their shoulders uneasily.


    "Yeah, it will be fine."


    Meanwhile at Transylvania,


    Rachael, who had tried to run back to the teleporter, clutched her stomach and slowly sank to the ground, wincing from the cramps.


    "You idiot~" Rachael muttered, her voice tinged with frustration not at Ricky, but at herself.


    She had gone to such lengths to appear strong, only to be shoved aside before the fight could even begin.


    Her first grappled with her own weakness, which loomed over her, making her feel so small.


    "Ms. Rachael, are you-"


    "I''m fine, Eric," Rachael interrupted with a chuckle, patting the young boy''s head as he smiled up at her, but then his eyes suddenly turned red.


    "Don''t." Rachael''s words stopped him in his tracks as she yanked the child back, her gaze shifting upwards to Likith slowly emerging onto her terrace, flanked by her vampiric knights.


    Lilith took a different approach from her father since rather than relying on an army of ghouls, she had established a military order of vampires, with high-ranking vampires serving as commanders, their influence trickling down through the ranks.


    These knights were mid-ranking vampires, each of them having spent considerable time training with swords and other weapons like the guns humans had been using for decades now.


    "I thought I smelled wet dog," Lilith chuckled, holding her hand above her mouth as she gazed down at Rachael, who snarled slightly in response.


    "And I knew I smelled rotten tuna," Rachael shot back, her words dripping with sarcasm as her eyes locked onto Lilith as the playful glint in Lilith''s gaze darkened, turning deadly.


    "If I wasn''t so worried you''d cough up a furball, I''d personally come closer," Lilith said, her tone light and cold while raising her gaze above her as Rachael scoffed.


    "Those are cats, and we both know what would happen if you came closer," Rachael shot back, her eyes turning golden while Lilith''s flashed a deep crimson.


    "Only your complete embarrassment." They both spoke in unison, each scowling at the other as Lilith''s gaze then shifted to the boy, who was glaring at her hatefully.


    "Is that-oh my." Lilith leaned over the terrace, her gaze falling on those familiar red eyes as Eric stared up at her, his teeth slowly emerging.


    "You''re a vampire-"


    "I''m half-vampire," Eric interrupted boldly as the knights immediately unsheathed their swords, but Lilith raised a hand, halting them, as Rachael''s eyes pulsed with power.


    "My apologies, you''re a self-hating half-vampire," Lilith mocked, her voice dripping with disdain.


    The other vampires sneered at Eric, scornful of his audacity to look down on their race while appearing so weak.


    "Lilith, we-"


    "Let me guess," Lilith interrupted, her tone dripping with amusement.


    "You''re here because of how pathetically weak you are, and my darling Ricky sent you here?" Lilith chuckled, already anticipating the question as Rachael, her gaze turning hateful, didn''t deny it and instead looked away.


    "Very well," Lilith said, her tone mocking, enjoying every second of this exchange.


    "I shall grant you asylum." Lilith laughed, turning away from Rachael, but paused when she noticed the sidelong glance.


    "Guides won''t be necessary, since you already know your way around." Lilith said, turning her back towards the two as the knights followed her back in.


    Rachael gritted her teeth but said nothing.


    Ricky had sent her here for a reason, and she didn''t want to make things harder than they already were and reluctantly, she kept quiet, her frustration simmering beneath the surface.


    "Enjoy your stay."


    Sigh


    "Yeah, they''ll be fine." Ricky shrugged, marching forward with his makeshift army, all of them tense as they realized they had crossed into Otherworld.


    "Gentlemen, do not fret." Jenkins said dutifully, trying to ease the tension.


    "Big Ben does indeed travel into the lands of Avalon, but only to its outskirts." Jenkins gestured toward a specific line, where the environment seemed entirely drained of life.


    Interestingly enough, that line marked the border of Avalon''s outskirts, its boundaries defined by a dead, barren land, life nowhere to be found.


    It was like a signal, a warning, that they had crossed into the lands of Gorre, where Castle Le Fey stood.


    "Geez," Ricky muttered, stepping onto the dead grass that marked their entry into the Land of Gorre and Jenkins, his eyes glowing with green flames, looked sadder.


    "Yes, well, it''s a tragic story," Jenkins said heavily, walking forward onto a half-destroyed path as the makeshift army followed him in silence, taking in the desolate scenery.


    "Let me guess, she was left with only this crappy territory?" Ricky said, his voice tinged with sarcasm only to see Jenkins shake his head at this.


    "No, Sir Ricky, the lands of Gorre used to be a paradise, contrary to its current environment. It rivaled Avalon," Jenkins replied solemnly, as Alexander crawled down onto the land as he scooped up some dirt, sniffing it and rubbing it between his fingers.


    "Salt and sulfur," Alexander muttered with an impressed gaze, though it quickly shifted to disgust and disappointment.


    "What a foolish decision," Alexander muttered, scrunching up his face before crawling back onto Ricky''s shoulder and plopping down.


    "Well, don''t just keep it to yourself, Alexander." Ricky whispered, the gerbil looking around before closing his eyes.


    "Am I to assume that Merlyn salted the earth?" Alexander asked, his gaze shifting to Jenkins, who slowly ducked his head as the gerbil shook his head in disapproval.


    "What a barbaric practice," Alexander remarked, able to respect the defeat of Morgana, but unable to respect what Merlyn did afterward.


    Although Alexander was a brutal conqueror, there was a common belief that he had indulged in such practices as salting the earth.


    However, that wasn''t true at all.


    Alexander the Great did not use salt to destroy any territory as his approach to conquest was not focused on total destruction but on integration and control.


    While he was ruthless in battle and occasionally ordered the destruction of cities such as Thebes which he razed as a warning to other Greek city-states, there is no historical record of him salting the earth.


    Instead, he typically rebuilt and re-populated cities, often naming them after himself like with Alexandria in Egypt.


    He even often sought to integrate local cultures, appointing local rulers, and even adopting customs of the regions he conquered, such as in Persia and Egypt.


    His strategy was always to build and expand, rather than devastate, ensuring the long-term stability of his vast empire.


    Salting the earth and ruining the resources that would support a kingdom or empire was something Alexander found utterly disgusting.


    To him, it was a waste of vital supplies, troops, and equipment that could have been repurposed to strengthen his own forces.


    That was a big reason why he left the cities intact in the first place, he saw no value in destroying what could be used to fuel his expansion.


    "Yes, when Merlyn sealed Morgana away, he used our country of Gorre as an example to all the others within Otherworld, a warning to bow toward Avalon, to Camelot." Jenkins''s eyes flickered, his mind drifting to the horrifying screams outside the castle walls.


    He remembered how Morgana fell to her knees, crying tears of hatred, forced to listen for seven days and seven nights as Merlyn made her endure the torment.


    "It is best not to bring up such topics in front of Her Majesty," Jenkins continued, his voice tight with discomfort.


    "It''s a very touchy subject."


    The conversation grew stale after that, and Ricky took his time, though he was eager to speed things up but he had never been to the castle before, so his magic portal wouldn''t help him here.


    Ricky kicked pebbles along the road, his frustration growing as he couldn''t just leave his guys behind.


    Begrudgingly, he followed Jenkins, trudging along the narrow path that wound deeper into the heavy valley, the thick haze of mist swallowing them whole.


    "Ugh, so boring~" Ricky sighed, glancing to the side at Bucephalus marching along with the army.


    The horse turned toward him, gave a disdainful scoff, and then turned away.


    Bucephalus didn''t respect Ricky, and every time he tried to mount the steed, the horse would throw him off, only allowing Alexander to ride him.


    "Do not fret, Ricky. You shall win Bucephalus''s respect soon enough," Alexander encouraged with a reassuring smile, knowing it was only a matter of time before the noble beast would allow Ricky to ride on his back.


    "Why does it have to respect me to f*cking ride it? It''s not like I''m asking him to be my slave or anything," Ricky laughed, unable to believe this stubborn horse was still acting this way. Bucephalus glared at him in response.


    "It is a pride thing, Bucephalus is a purebred warhorse from Olympus and thus only recognizes those who take part in wars." Alexander explained, gesturing towards Bucephalus who raised his head as if confirming his master''s words.


    "I was literally just fighting-"


    "Yes, but that was a battle." Alexander corrected, holding up his paw as if it were a matter-of-fact only for Ricky to have a deadpan expression.


    "That''s actually such a stupid reason," Ricky muttered, glaring at the horse as Bucephalus glared back, nostrils flaring as he raised his head higher, meeting Ricky''s gaze.


    It gave him a mocking expression, almost snickering at his feeble strength as Ricky''s eyebrow twitched at this look.


    "You wanna go, you f*cking go donkey? Cause I''ll throw hands right now." Ricky challenged, reaching for his blade but instead of turning away, Bucephalus didn''t back down.


    Instead, he marched right up to Ricky and stopped his hooves right in front of him as they sized up each other.


    Snort


    The warhorse exhaled sharply, standing tall as if daring Ricky to act as the latter laughed, unsheathing his blade as sparks of red electricity flashed, only for Jenkins to swiftly intervene.


    Ahem


    "Excuse me, Sir Ricky, Sir Bucephalus," Jenkins interjected smoothly, stepping between them before things escalated further.


    Both Ricky and Bucephalus jerked their heads toward him, their glares momentarily shifting from each other to the butler.


    "What?"


    Snort


    "We''re at the Valley Of Whispering Mists." Jenkins gestured to the mountain rage induced into a thick fog.


    "And?" Ricky said, actually having Bucepahlus agree with him as to why this stopped their coming squabble.


    "And it is where Castle Le Fey lies, enshrouded under its natural protection," Jenkins dutifully answered, his tone carrying the weight of old knowledge.


    Ricky and Bucephalus shared one last glare before both turned their attention back to him.


    "And?" Ricky asked, watching Bucephalus glare even harder towards Jenkins who slowly nodded his head as if to understand the confusion.


    "The mist acts as a natural defense, inducing hallucinogenic effects that drive those afflicted into a state of delusion," Jenkins explained, watching Ricky frown and rub the back of his neck.


    "Oh, so basically a mindf*ck," Ricky muttered, shifting uncomfortably as he''d had enough flashbacks for one lifetime.


    "I''ll just use my force field-"


    "The valley requires a two-hour trek on foot," Jenkins interrupted, explaining why that wouldn''t work since even if he didn''t need to breathe, his makeshift army did, at least the coven part.


    "The air within your force field wouldn''t last the entire journey." Jenkins gestured for Ricky to move forward, while the rest of the convoy exchanged uneasy glances.


    Meanwhile, Cedric kept his sharp gaze fixed on the undead guide, calmly studying the scene with his eyes.


    "Jenkins, buddy, just get to the point." Ricky sighed, gesturing toward the undead skeleton who nodded dutifully while pulling out an orb.


    "This is a magical device created by Her Majesty to convert the hallucinogenic effects of the mist into breathable air, making a pocket of clean space. However, it doesn''t fully neutralize the mist completely, so please do not stray outside the barrier." Jenkins funneled magic into the orb as it slowly began absorbing the surrounding mist.


    "Now, squeeze together, even a couple of breaths can induce the effects." Jenkins urged, stepping forward as the convoy hurriedly squished together while Ricky followed behind.


    As they walked into the mountain range, Ricky didn''t feel anything at all, his toxic immunity cleansed his body of the residual mist that the magical device couldn''t completely neutralize.


    However, for the convoy, their skin prickled uncomfortably, as if tiny needles were pressing into them, though that was the extent of their discomfort and even Bucephalus remained unaffected, much less Asterion.


    Alexander, however, was a different story.


    Unlike the others, who quickly shook off the hallucinatory effects that had been blocked, Alexander, with his small gerbil-sized tolerance, succumbed almost instantly as his pupils dilated heavily as his vision warped.


    ''Where am I?'' Alexander thought, his mind clouded with confusion as the scenery around him twisted and reshaped itself.


    He glanced down, expecting to see his small gerbil feet, but instead, he found himself wearing boots.


    When he lifted his gaze, there was no mountain range ahead, only a desk, and a man slumped in his chair, surrounded by cup after cup of wine.


    ''Why am I here?'' Alexander muttered, staring at his hands, real, human palms, rough with calluses layered upon calluses and then, an understanding dawned on him.


    ''Right, I came to report to my father about becoming a master at Kamar-Taj.'' Alexander remembered after recognizing his own reflection in the nearby mirror, his form now that of his nineteen-year-old self.


    Up to this point, he had followed his master, Aristotle, to his place of origin, where he had learned and mastered the mystic arts.


    It was there that he earned the spear now in his grasp, his reward for completing his training.


    Before Alexander stood his father, Philip of Macedonia, a revered commander and king, once hailed as one of the greatest generals in history.


    Yet, the man before him looked nothing like the legends had described.


    Philip''s once-proud stature was slumped, his face lined with exhaustion, his regal presence dulled by the stench of wine as his eyes, once sharp and commanding, now held only a distant emptiness.


    "So what if you''ve become a mystic master?" Philip scoffed, reaching over to refill his cup, his gaze barely acknowledging Alexander''s presence.


    "Worthless, it means nothing." Philip''s words were hollow, drowned in the bitterness of the wine he poured.


    "You''ll still never amount to anything, neither you nor I." Philip spoke heavy words, dousing the tongue that had uttered them in another stream of wine before slumping in the chair and gazing at the ceiling.


    Alexander''s grip on his spear tightened, his knuckles paling under the pressure as he stared at his father, Philip of Macedonia, a man once revered, now slouched over a desk, drowning in his own disillusionment.


    The air reeked of aged wine and defeat, the dim candlelight casting flickering shadows over his father''s worn features.


    "We are all but pawns in the game of the gods." Philip muttered, swirling the wine in his cup, his gaze distant, unfocused.


    "Our lives, our choices, they all mean nothing in the hands of the Fates."


    The words were spoken with such certainty, such bitter finality, that they gnawed at something deep within Alexander.


    He had traveled across the world, endured grueling training, mastered the mystic arts, all in pursuit of something greater than himself.


    To be like his father, Philip of Macedonia.


    Yet here he was, a man who had once shaped empires, reducing all ambition, all struggle, to insignificance.


    "We are mere figurines." Philip continued, lifting his cup in a mock toast to the unseen gods above as his smile was hollow, his voice void of hope.


    Alexander felt a surge of defiance boil in his blood, his eyes radiating pure outrage at the will he had so much revered turned into such loathing bitterness


    Was this truly the conclusion of a man who had once been called great?


    A man who had commanded armies, carved his legacy into history, and raised a son meant for more?


    His father had once believed in power, in destiny forged by one''s own hands and now, he sat here, undone by his own doubts.


    "Do you truly believe that?" Alexander finally spoke, his voice steady but laced with quiet anger.


    "That everything we do is meaningless, that everything you''ve built is meaningless?" Alexander asked, gripping his chest and squeezing at his heart that ravaged against his chest.


    Philip exhaled through his nose, as if amused by his son''s resistance.


    "Look around you, boy. Look at history, look at me." Philip gestured vaguely to himself, to the empty chamber around them.


    "Even the greatest among us are nothing more than whispers in the wind, waiting to be scattered. The gods play their games, and we are the pieces they move for their amusement." Philip pranced his fingers in the air, as if they were being dangled by the strings held in the sky,


    However, contrary to this man''s acceptance, Alexander''s jaw clenched as he had come here expecting recognition, perhaps even pride, but instead, he was being handed a lesson in futility.


    He refused to accept it.


    "Then let them try to move me," Alexander said, stepping forward, his spear radiating with power.


    "Let them reach down from their thrones and see if I break, for my story will not end as mere tales spoken in pastime!" Alexander''s voice thundered, his chest swelling with defiance as his heavy armor clanged against his form.


    The marks of countless battles etched into the metal seemed to speak of his struggle, the raw force of his will reverberating through his every word.


    His gaze was sharp and unyielding, his eyes locked with the figure of his father, a man who had once stood taller than gods in Alexander''s eyes, but now seemed a shadow of that former glory.


    The weight of destiny bore down on Alexander''s shoulders, but he refused to bow, he refused to break.


    "And I will not let you merely escape into the shadows of the world''s history!" Alexander''s voice cut through the silence like a blade.


    The air between them crackled with his conviction as his hand reached up to adjust his spear, an emblem of his newfound power and purpose that he gained from Kamar-Taj.


    "I shall seek glory, for the both of us."


    Without waiting for his father''s response, Alexander turned sharply on his heel and strode out of the room, his footsteps echoing through the cold stone halls like the steady march of fate itself without even sparing a look back.


    Inside, Philip remained seated, his hand still clutching the half-empty wine cup as he was silent, but the weight of his son''s words hung in the space like an unspoken promise.


    The old king''s eyes seemed to soften, a flicker of recognition, of something long buried, stirring beneath the surface.


    "Then show them, Alexander." Philip''s voice rumbled from behind, low and laden with a strange mix of disdain and something else, something buried deep within.


    "Show them what fear truly looks like." Philip''s words hung in the air, fragmented and raw, carrying the weight of his own failures and weaknesses.


    There was a brokenness to them, but also something more, something unspoken, a quiet plea, a final reach toward his son.


    The words reverberated in the cold, silent room, echoing off the stone walls like a ghostly whisper.


    Alexander, his back still turned, remained motionless, his hand resting on the doorframe as though the gravity of his father''s statement had struck him at his core.


    Time seemed to stretch, the silence thickening like a heavy fog as the challenge, the dare, lingered between them, filling the space with a tension that was impossible to ignore.


    Philip''s words were not simply a taunt, they were a plea, they were a subtle hint as to how he had fallen from his mighty throne into the hollow man before him.


    With a long, slow exhale, Alexander turned to face his father as his eyes glowed with a fire that could ignite the very earth beneath them.


    When he spoke, his voice was so calm, so eerily, but beneath its surface, sat a current of power, a quiet storm of resolve that made the air itself tremble.


    "I will show them."


    As soon as the words left his mouth, the world around Alexander shifted, the mist pouring in around him as he seeped deeper into his own mind.


    The powerful, confident form of the nineteen-year-old conqueror melted away, replaced by the frailty of his childhood body.


    His once strong, capable hands were now small and covered in cuts, streaks of red tracing his pale skin like the marks of some forgotten struggle.


    Bruises dotted his arms and legs, and his face, usually set in a steely expression of resolve, was now streaked with tears, his eyes wide with helplessness.


    He stood there, a boy, a child who had once feared the very world that now surrounded him.


    One that felt far too big, too cruel.


    His stature shrank further with each passing moment, the once towering presence of Alexander now a trembling, vulnerable figure, consumed by his own insecurities.


    He felt small and weak, in need of someone to hold him, to soothe him.


    "Alexander?"


    The voice, soft and soothing, broke through the haze of his thoughts as he looked up to see Olympias, his mother, standing before him.


    She was as beautiful as ever, her presence radiant, a warm glow that seemed to pierce through the darkness of his emotions.


    Her face was etched with worry as she bent down to him, her eyes filled with a love that wrapped around him like a comforting embrace.


    "Mother, I-" Alexander choked on his words, the shame of his vulnerability threatening to suffocate him.


    He wanted to say something, apologize for his weakness, for not being the man he had always been meant to become, but his voice cracked.


    He couldn''t, for he was but a mere child again, lost in his own pain and grief of trying to be what others asked of him, but failing time and time again.


    Alexander wasn''t born a fighter, nor was he a great commander who stood at the forefront of legends past and present.


    At one point in time, he was simply a boy, one who had to learn, to struggle, to carve his name into the annals of history with blood and fire, one who had to cry.


    But before he could say anything else, Olympias enveloped him in her arms, pulling him close.


    Her warmth was a soothing medicine to his fractured soul as she cooed softly, trying to ease his pain, her voice gentle and yet so tender.


    "It''s alright, it''s alright~"


    But Alexander''s sobs only grew louder, his body shaking with the weight of his own internal torment as his cries echoed through the room.


    "Why am I so weak?" Alexander whimpered, closing his eyes tightly, as if willing himself to disappear.


    The man who would conquer nations had been forged from this very weakness, a weakness that haunted him from the moment he could understand the world.


    A weakness that had stayed with him, even as he grew stronger, even as he forged his empire.


    But here, in this moment, in the safety of his mother''s embrace, he was a boy again, weak, fragile, and unsure of the power he so desperately sought.


    "You''re are not weak-"


    "I am!" Alexander hissed through gritted teeth, his head ducked in shame, tears falling to the ground like raindrops as his breath hitched as his fists clenched at his sides.


    "Everyone else easily understands the way of the sword, the way to hold a spear and I-"


    Sniff


    "I fail every time-"


    A soft, melodic chuckle broke through the anguish and Olympias, her voice warm and soothing, reached him like a lifeline, despite his struggle.


    "And that is your strength." Olypmpias spoke as if it was the easiest thing in the world, gazing towards her loving son who thought he heard wrong.


    "W-What?" Alexander jerked his head up, eyes wide with confusion.


    "Others were born with strength, with talent, able to hold the weight of their power, but you, my darling Alexander, were born with something no other man before you has ever wielded." Olympias said sweetly, gazing down at him with affection, continued


    "Will." Olympias said, her voice imbued with certainty, as if she had known it all along.


    "Will, a will that reaches towards the sun, you were given the strength of perseverance." Olympias lovingly said, gently holding his cheek and wiping away the last tear he would ever shed with her thumb.


    Alexander''s breath slowed, and for a brief moment, the storm within him quieted as he processed her words.


    "Never forget that, my dear Alexander. Never forget to stand tall, to never give up."


    Her words hung in the air, a balm to his wounded spirit and there, in his mother''s embrace, the boy who had once been lost in doubt began to understand, strength wasn''t just about wielding a sword or a spear.


    It was about pushing forward, no matter the odds, no matter how many times he stumbled.


    His will was his true weapon, unyielding, relentless, and far more dangerous than any blade or army.


    This will was built upon humility, the understanding that he wasn''t the strongest today, but he could be tomorrow.


    It wasn''t arrogance that drove him, but the quiet recognition that strength wasn''t something you were born with; it was something you earned, day by day, through struggle and growth.


    They say Alexander the Great was born with everything, and that was true, he had all the tools available to him to become the conqueror who would terrify the known world.


    But what set him apart from other figures in history was that he used those tools to their complete advantage.


    Where others might have faltered, used their royal heritage as a shield of negligence, Alexander harnessed every lesson, every hardship, and turned it into a stepping stone toward greatness.


    Funneled it all towards his will.


    From that point on, Alexander never cried again.


    His will became unbreakable, not at first, but forged from every callus that slowly formed over his hands, the scars that littered his skin, he persevered through the pain to forge himself into the deadliest weapon.


    The boy who had once wept in the arms of his mother now stood unyielding, his gaze set toward the horizon, never flinching.


    Days turned into nights, and yet, Alexander never stopped.


    He swung the sword with precision, held the spear with resolve, and shot arrows that cut through the air with the same certainty he had found within himself.


    His strength wasn''t born of talent alone, it was carved from the relentless determination to push forward, to overcome, to rise no matter how many times he fell.


    It wasn''t merely his victories on the battlefield that made him great, it was the unyielding spirit within him, the will to conquer not just empires, but his own doubts and fears.


    But a man''s will can turn bloody just as fast.


    "Master Aristotle, I-I can''t." Alexander, now grown to the ripe age of thirteen, hesitated, looking away as the mist funneled him even deeper into his own mind.


    Before him stood an old man, his mentor in the ways of life, now asking him to follow him into the place where his knowledge truly took root.


    "You can''t?" Aristotle''s voice was sharp, challenging, as though questioning the very fabric of Alexander''s resolve.


    This man, the father of Western logic and the guiding hand behind many of history''s greatest minds, was none other than Aristotle, Alexander''s master, his mentor.


    "You have arms?" Aristotle asked, his voice unwavering as he had a curious smile on his lips.


    "Well, yes-" Alexander replied, feeling a bit unsure of where this conversation was headed.


    "You have a will?"


    "Yes, master, but-"


    "And you have legs, capable of moving with those arms and that will?" Aristotle continued, his gaze sharp and steady while his smile stretched further.


    "Yes, master." Alexander answered, confusion starting to give way to understanding.


    "Then you can come to Kamar-Taj with me." Aristotle''s words were simple, yet their weight felt profound, as if a door had opened before Alexander, one that led not just to a place, but to a destiny he had yet to fully comprehend.


    "But my mother-" Alexander hesitated, his words trailing off as he lowered his head as his gaze fell to the ground, his mind torn between his duty and the future that lay before him.


    Aristotle, ever the calm and thoughtful mentor, closed his eyes, allowing the weight of silence to fill the space between them.


    The quiet stretched, and for a moment, Alexander wasn''t afraid of this unknown region, but the thought of leaving his mother all alone.


    "Your Majesty, it''s your mother!" An attendant rushed toward the young prince, breathless and wide-eyed.


    Panic flickered in the servant''s movements, his urgency pulling Alexander''s attention away from his mentor.


    "She is having one of her bouts, and you are the only one who can calm her down," The attendant explained, his voice strained with concern as he bowed deeply at Alexander''s feet, the posture of respect a stark contrast to the fear in his eyes.


    "I-"


    "Go," Aristotle said simply, nodding his head for he understood all too well.


    Alexander bowed respectfully before him, following the attendant as Aristotle watched the boy depart with sad eyes.


    CRASH


    CRASH


    Alexander''s footsteps faltered as he approached the castle''s private garden, the sound of his mother''s shrill scream cutting through the air like a blade.


    His heart clenched, a familiar, unsettling mix of concern and frustration rising in his chest.


    "DO YOU NOT GET IT? I GAVE BIRTH TO THE SON OF ZEUS, HIS FATHER IS NOT PHILIP, A MERE HUMAN!" Olympias'' voice cracked, filled with fury and something far more tragic, delusion.


    Her words echoed against the stone walls, and a silver platter flew through the air, narrowly missing an attendant who scrambled to the side, cowering against the garden wall.


    Alexander''s gaze shifted toward the woman who had once been his pillar, his mother.


    The fierce, regal Olympias, who had once instilled in him the belief that he was destined for greatness, now stood before him in a twisted parody of that former glory.


    Her once-beautiful face was distorted by anger and madness, her wild hair cascading around her shoulders as if she were a goddess in the throes of divine wrath.


    Her eyes, once filled with love and pride, now burned with something darker, a deep paranoia that consumed her, making her lash out at everyone around her, even those who loved her most.


    The sight of her like this brought an ache to Alexander''s chest, and for a brief moment, he saw not the great queen or the mother who had inspired him, but a woman lost, adrift in her own mind.


    Alexander''s heart sank as Olympias spiraled further into madness as her once-eloquent words, the sharp commands of a queen, now twisted into incoherent ramblings that barely resembled the mother he had known.


    "Mother." Alexander whispered again, his voice strained with helplessness, but Olympias paid it no mind.


    "Oh, there he is, my darling Demi-god~" Olympias chuckled, her voice eerily light, as if she were speaking to an object, not a son.


    Her eyes flickered with something too wild, too untamed to be love, yet she tried to fill them with a forced emotion.


    Her head jerked suddenly, her ears brushing against a leaf, as if the wind were whispering things only she could hear.


    "Come, come, to the trees, to the leaves, and hear their whispers of your greatness!" Olympias gestured erratically toward the plants in her garden, their vibrant life forcing itself into the scene with a vitality that bordered on unnatural.


    The leaves fluttered, as if moved by some unseen force, and the flowers seemed to stretch toward her like followers to a queen.


    "They speak to me, they tell me that you are not of the blood of that weak Philip," Olympias raved, her voice rising to a fevered pitch.


    "But the blood of Zeus, THE PROMISED KING!" Olympias laughed then, a manic, hollow sound that rattled the very air.


    Her hands clawed at the space around her as if trying to clutch the very air, the leaves, the earth that held her together.


    "Mother, what you need is rest-" Alexander began, reaching out to gently pull her away from the maddened grasp of the trees but Olympias''s mind snapped in that instant.


    "NOOOOO!" Olympias shrieked, her voice high-pitched and filled with a manic desperation.


    With a sudden burst of strength, she pushed Alexander aside, her frail body moving with surprising force as she lunged toward the trees.


    "I-I NEED TO HEAR THE TALES, I NEED TO HEAR OF YOUR GREATNESS!" Olympias cried, her voice trembling with a crazed edge as her eyes began to overflow with tears, though they seemed as much a plea as a release.


    "COME, come, let us hear them together~" Olympias spoke, her voice shifting from frenzied excitement to something softer, a fragile cry for help that Alexander could not ignore.


    Yet he stood frozen, his heart heavy with disappointment as he watched his mother unravel before him.


    "I can''t." The words left his mouth like a stone dropped into still water, heavy and final.


    "What?" Olympias''s face paled, her eyes wide in disbelief as the young Alexander felt incredibly uncomfortable and wanted to leave, from all of this, from all of his problems.


    "I-I''m going to Kamar-Taj with my master, Aristotle." Alexander''s statement hung in the air like an anchor, and for a moment, Olympias stood still, the wind rustling through the trees around them, whispering like a warning.


    "No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no-" Olympias''s voice became frantic as she shook her head violently, her body trembling with the exertion of her own inner conflict with the winds crashing into her ears before she looked up at Alexander, her eyes wild, desperate.


    "You can''t leave." Olympias''s voice turned cold, sharp, her gaze locking onto him with a deadly intensity.


    It was no longer the pleading look of a mother, but something darker, something protective in the most twisted form.


    "YOU CAN''T LEAVE!" Olympias screamed, her voice tearing through the air like a blade.


    Before Alexander could react, she lunged at him with a fierce, frantic dedication as he turned to face her, his eyes full of sorrow, but before he could speak, her hands were at his throat, tightening with an unnatural strength.


    "YOU CAN''T LEAVE, YOU CAN''T LEAVE, YOU CAN''T LEAVE!" Olympias repeated, each word a choking command, her grip tightening around him as if she would never let him go.


    Alexander gasped for air, his hands instinctively reaching to pry his mother''s fingers from his throat.


    But when he gazed up, upon the madness looming in her eyes, there was this subtle hint of desperation so raw it felt untouchable, something he couldn''t fight.


    It was as if losing him would mean losing the last bit of herself, that last shred of sanity.


    He tried to push her away, to break free, but the love he had once seen in her eyes, now twisted with so much hate, made him falter.


    The image of her love, however warped, kept him from striking back against his own mother.


    "Sleep."


    The words came out soft, almost a whisper, and in an instant, his mother''s body went limp, collapsing toward the ground.


    Alexander caught her, cradling her gently in his arms, but his gaze turned upward toward Philip as his hand stretched out in a silent plea.


    Philip met his son''s eyes for the briefest moment.


    It wasn''t anger that flickered in Philip''s eyes, it was something far more unsettling: resignation.


    An empty, hollow look that spoke volumes, somehow torn as though he wanted to say something, but the words never came.


    Instead, he turned away, walking with heavy steps, his back retreating further from Alexander.


    "Leave."


    The word was final, hollow and with that, Philip was gone, leaving Alexander alone with the weight of his mother''s fragile form in his arms as he lowered his gaze.


    "Yes, Father."


    Alexander''s words echoed through the air, heavy with anger and frustration as a firm hand settled on his shoulder, grounding him as Aristotle''s calm presence beckoned him away, pulling him into the next memory.


    The mist swirled around Alexander''s figure, his senses overwhelmed by the disorienting effects.


    Aristotle, ever the steady presence, gently guided him forward, trying to help him stay grounded as the fog thickened around them.


    Meanwhile, the attendants rushed to his mother, lifting her gently to carry her back to her dwelling, concerned for her well-being.


    Alexander took a hesitant step, and the mist reverberated around him, distorting his perception further as it seemed to come alive, curling and shifting in unnatural patterns.


    In an instant, they were transported to another moment, one where Alexander stood behind his father, the weight of his rage consuming him.


    His young belief in justice and rightness surged as he swiped his hands through the air, the air thick with tension.


    "HOW COULD YOU LET THIS HAPPEN? HOW COULD YOU GIVE AWAY MY SISTER TO THAT FIEND WHO''S TRYING TO USURP YOUR RULE!" Alexander''s voice cracked with fury, his golden aura flaring around him like a firestorm.


    Philip stood, unmoving, gazing out at the empire he had built, now feeling as if it were nothing more than a playground for forces beyond his control.


    His eyes were distant, as if he had already checked out from the very reality his son fought so desperately to protect.


    "It doesn''t matter, nothing matters." Philip''s voice was cold, devoid of any fire, any will, any strength, and when the wine cup slipped from his hand, it fell with a dull thud, unnoticed.


    His gaze shifted skyward, as though searching for something beyond the earth beneath his feet, something that was beyond his reach, beyond anything that Alexander could understand.


    "FATHER, WHY-"


    "I am not your father, boy." Philip''s voice hissed through clenched teeth, his words sharp and venomous.


    He turned abruptly, and Alexander staggered back, recoiling as though struck as the truth in his father''s tone cut deeper than any blow could.


    "What are you-" Alexander took a step forward, desperate for some kind of explanation, but before he could get any further, Philip''s attention was drawn to a flicker of movement at the edge of the terrace.


    A shadow, creeping slowly and with deadly intent, an assassin climbing silently toward them.


    It was a split second, a brief moment in time, but Philip''s hollow gaze shifted, catching the movement with unnatural precision.


    His eyes met the assassin''s, then locked onto his son but before Alexander could react, Philip''s instinct kicked in, almost instinctively.


    In an instant, he shoved Alexander away with all the force he could muster, throwing him off balance.


    SPLAT


    The sound of metal sinking deep into flesh was sickening as Alexander''s body hit the ground hard, and his eyes widened in shock, unable to comprehend what had just happened.


    Only to look up in horror, his breath catching in his throat as an assassin''s sword had not struck him, but his father.


    "NOOOOOOOOOOO!" Alexander''s scream shattered the air, his voice raw with agony, the sound of it echoing in the chaos of the moment.


    His body surged with energy, a golden aura radiating outwards as his spear cleaved through the air.


    The assassin barely had time to react before his head was severed cleanly from his body, his form crumpling to the ground but the act of vengeance came too late.


    Philip was already falling into the cruel grasp of death.


    "Father, FATHER!" Alexander cried, desperation coating every syllable as he dropped to his knees beside the dying man.


    His hands, glowing with golden light, reached toward him, but Philip, with all the strength he could muster, grasped his wrist.


    "I am not your father, b-but-" Philip''s words were strained, his voice ragged and broken.


    His hollow eyes, once so distant, now flickered with something Alexander had never expected to see again, love.


    COUGH


    COUGH


    Blood spilled from his mouth, staining his lips as he shuddered, his body failing since despite the pain, Philip''s face softened into a pained smile.


    His hand, trembling with the weight of his own death, reached up to touch Alexander''s cheek gently.


    "You will always be my son."


    Alexander was left speechless, watching Philip''s hand fall limply as his blood stained his hands.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    Alexander''s breath came in ragged gasps, his eyes, once young and full of ambition, now burned with the fiery rage of vengeance.


    The golden light that once radiated from him flared wildly, now twisted and corrupted by the blood of his father.


    His hands trembled with the weight of the world, dripping with blood, as his soul fought to contain the storm brewing within him.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"


    The roar ripped from his throat, a sound so guttural it seemed to tear the very air around him as the world around him dissolved into a swirling vortex of blood.


    The sky darkened as every scream, every tortured face, every drop of innocent blood that had been spilled in his wake, spiraled around him and his mind shattered under the weight of it all.


    His father''s limp body was caught in the chaos, swept up by the torrent of his rage, a grim reminder of the moment that had led him here.


    The bodies of the fallen, the faces of the kingdoms he had conquered, surrounded him.


    The winds of his fury howled as the tornado of destruction and hatred wrapped around him, pulling him into its eye, drowning him, suffocating him with the consequences of his actions.


    Alexander''s eyes burned with madness as he gazed down at his own hands as they were stained, soaked with the blood of countless lives.


    Ashes from the ruined kingdoms fluttered in the air, their faces flickering like ghostly memories.


    In the next moment, the tornado collapsed in on him, pulling him deeper into its fury, drowning his conscience, smothering any remnants of the man he once was.


    In the end, all that remained was one thing, pure, unrelenting hatred.


    The mist faded, slipping away like a forgotten dream, and Alexander''s mind was plunged into a memory.


    His hands trembled as he stared at them, the blood staining his palms, dark and warm.


    The sound of ringing filled his ears, drowning out everything else, a relentless hum that blurred the world around him.


    Yet one voice remained.


    "Alexander~" The voice cooed again, its sweet tone dripping with venom as it curled around him like a snake, slithering through his thoughts, twisting them into knots.


    Two cold, green hands rested on his shoulders, the touch like ice against his armor.


    "Alexander~"


    The name was spoken again, but this time, it was laced with something darker, something more sinister.


    The dread within him grew heavier, like a stone sinking deep in his stomach as his fists tightened, the blood still staining his palms, but it wasn''t enough to wash away the crushing weight of that voice.


    "Alexander."


    "Alexander!"


    "ALEXANDER!"


    "Huh?" ALexander said, looking up only to see Ricky weirdly looking at him after they exited the Valley Of Whispering Mists.


    "Are you okay, man? You''ve been quiet for like, two hours." Ricky said, his voice laced with concern as he noticed Alexander muttering to himself, completely distant.


    Cough


    "Yes, I am quite alright!" Alexander let out a hearty laugh, masking the turmoil beneath with a thin veil of assurance, concealing the deep scars within him that had yet to fully heal.


    "Alright man, if you say so." Ricky said, looking forward as Alexander remained quiet, staring up at the huge castle enshrouded in a thick barrier.


    Alexander had been so out of it that they had already reached the famous Castle Le Fey, and now, everyone was waiting.


    The convoy stood watch as Ricky took a step forward. Morgana, in her true form, sat on her balcony, observing the scene with a fierce intensity.


    This was it. All the effort she had poured into freeing herself had led to this moment, and it felt surreal to see one of her greatest enemies willingly release her. But she didn''t complain.


    For today would be remembered in the future of Camelot, the day Morgana was finally free from her prison.


    "You ready?" Ricky asked Morgana, looking up while unsheathing the ebony blade.


    "I''ve only been waiting a couple centuries," Morgana lightly joked, though there was an undeniable urgency in her tone, the desire to step foot outside her castle almost palpable.


    "Well, a deal is a deal," Ricky said, raising a smile as his sword crackled with a red intensity.


    "Here goes nothing."


    Meanwhile In New York,


    "What if we tighten the budget-"


    "No, we absolutely need this to rework the ventilation system," Chores said, sighing heavily as he stood before none other than the CFO, Samuel Frost.


    "We don''t have enough. We need to cut or pause its construction," Samuel pinched the bridge of his nose, clearly frustrated as he hated being in this position, but it seemed they had no choice.


    Usually, when they needed more funds, they''d turn to Ricky, who had the uncanny ability to pull out bars of gold from thin air.


    Ricky''s wealth seemed endless, stored away in his mysterious pocket dimensions.


    He''d already invested $10 million in cash into the company, propping it up in the face of numerous setbacks and of the 450 gold bars he''d taken from that Sicilian fault, he''d used 15 already.


    But to Samuel''s disappointment, Ricky had to leave, as he always did, leaving him and Chores to deal with the lingering setbacks of the company.


    Though, it was hard to complain too much since every time he looked at his paycheck, the large sums staring back at him kept his complaints in check.


    It was a difficult balance between frustration and gratitude, but the pay was more than enough to keep him pushing forward, dealing with the problems that Ricky often left behind.


    "What if we move things around-"


    "Chores, Slick already told us that the workers cannot be touched, and the construction on your combination of those four sectors into one mass production cycle is heavily siphoning our funds." Samuel revealed, watching Chores chuckle and rub the back of his neck.


    "How much-"


    "It''s 65%, the workers are 20%, and the other 15% is on all the equipment that we are overspending on to expedite the shipping process." Samuel adjusted his glasses, handing Chores a piece of paper as he bit his lip.


    The ventilation system was a big aspect in their plans since it wasn''t just about providing fresh air; it was crucial to the overall efficiency of the entire operation.


    With the new production cycle integrating multiple sectors, air quality was an essential factor in maintaining optimal conditions for the workers.


    Chores wanted to revolutionize what America thought of factories, a vision that Ricky threw money at,


    But without it, in his plan, the machinery could overheat, the workers could become fatigued more quickly, and the entire system could collapse under its own weight.


    But that wasn''t all, the ventilation system also had a strategic purpose beyond just function.


    It was tied to security, keeping certain areas sealed off and limiting access as the design had been carefully laid out to ensure that no one could tamper with sensitive operations, especially when dealing with large investments like the gold bars Ricky had put into the project.


    As much as Samuel could see the potential, he couldn''t ignore the growing pressure on their budget.


    "I''m sorry Chores, I really am since I know how much work you''ve been putting into this but I can''t-"


    "No, no, you''re not at fault." Chores rubbed his face, tapping the table they were both sitting at since right now, he was in Samuel''s office.


    "It''s my fault, I shouldn''t have started right when Ricky left but just waited." Chores shook his head, pinching the bridge of his nose since this was really important ot him.


    This factory, this company, it was Chores'' way of proving himself.


    It wasn''t just a business venture; it was his declaration to Ricky, to everyone around him, that those long years spent refining himself with Daedalus research, his studies, and the Covens alchemy department hadn''t been in vain.


    Chores was ready.


    Ready to stand on his own, to take the world by storm, to show that he could do something significant, something that mattered not to the people around him, but to the world.


    Chores was ambitious, young, and burning with a relentless drive.


    His desire to prove his worth was palpable in every action, every decision but there was an unsettling impatience beneath his ambition.


    He wanted to be great now, to show everyone immediately what he was capable of, and that need to prove himself often led him to push harder than anyone else could understand.


    It wasn''t that he didn''t believe in the process; it was that he believed he could push past the waiting, the refining, and leap straight into the outcome.


    He wanted it all, right now.


    And yet, he always needed more time.


    More time to refine the designs, more time to perfect the plans, more time to comb through Daedalus'' research to improve his blueprints.


    Time was something Chores never seemed to have enough of, and that troubled those around him.


    People, especially those closest to him, could see the strain building in his shoulders, the sleepless nights, the obsessive energy that consumed him.


    But Ricky, always the steady force, believed in him.


    Ricky had faith in Chores'' potential, even if the path wasn''t as straightforward as they all hoped.


    Lucky, the back, the Luciano family, and literally everyone else warned that it was reckless, that throwing money into the project without fully knowing the outcome was a dangerous gamble.


    But to Ricky, that money in the storage system was just that, money sitting there, unused.


    And sitting idle was worse than anything as he would rather put it to work, invest it, invest in Chores dreams.


    But that complete trust was almost burdening Chores.


    Chores wanted to prove to Ricky that he was right, that his trust wasn''t wasted on him, and it was slowly killing him.


    Chores would spend hours that turned into days, days into months, as he tirelessly honed every detail, refined every blueprint, and yet it was never enough.


    He could always see something more, some flaw, something else to improve.


    What was supposed to be a testament to his capability had, ironically, become his greatest burden.


    Because no matter how much time he spent, no matter how much he poured into the work, Chores couldn''t shake the feeling that it wasn''t yet perfect, and he wouldn''t stop until it was.


    "Just give me more time, just a little bit more time," Chores pleaded with Samuel, his voice softening as he watched the cold man sigh heavily.


    Though others saw Samuel as distant and harsh, Chores had always felt a sense of camaraderie with him.


    Despite Samuel''s unapproachable demeanor, the two had developed a strong working relationship, and Chores respected him more than he let on.


    "Two weeks, I can spare you two weeks, nothing more." Samuel said, rubbing his forehead since that was all the time he could spare.


    "I promise Samuel, I''ll find the money and-"


    Knock


    Knock


    "Grandma?" Samuel suddenly asked, the knocking of the door interrupting Chores who turned back to see his gradman, Morgana Frost.


    "Hello dear-ah, am I interrupting something?" Morgana asked, smiling lightly before her cold eyes reflected the image of Chores.


    "Yes Grandma, I''m currently talking with my boss-"


    "Oh, no, it''s no trouble." Chores suddenly held up his big hands, chuckling slightly while backing up.


    "Chores, we still need to go over the rest of the budget-"


    "Later, go be with your grandma." Chores smiled, warmly gesturing towards Morgana who waved at Sameul who pinched the bridge of his nose.


    "And besides, I need to deliver dinner for Barko anyway since he never leaves his lab," Chores added, shaking his head. Samuel frowned but nodded in understanding.


    "Fine, but don''t miss the 5 o''clock ferry," Samuel warned, raising a finger at him as Chores gave a light smile, nodding back before turning to leave.


    "Who is that dear, your friend?" Morgana asked, a tinge of hope in her voice as Samuel looked down at a couple of papers.


    "Something like that." Samuel nodded, causing Morgana to smile since to her knowledge, Samuel doesn''t have any friends.


    Samuel had always been an isolated soul, closed off from all forms of interaction, his focus consumed by his studies.


    So, seeing him form a connection with someone, especially someone like Chores, genuinely brought a sense of relief.


    It was rare for Samuel to let his guard down, and the fact that he had begun to trust and work alongside Chores meant something, even if he didn''t always show it.


    "Grandma, I really need to finish-"


    "Dear, I really need to speak with you," Morgana said, her gaze unwavering as Samuel furrowed his brows and looked up at her.


    "Then-"


    "Not here," Morgana interrupted, opening a portal and gesturing for Samuel to follow as he let out a light sigh, not exactly eager, but knowing that it was best to get whatever this was over with.


    "Fine, but I cannot stay for long," Samuel said, standing up and walking toward the portal as he stepped through, he was met with an odd scene.


    Before him stood his mother, father, aunt, brothers, sisters, cousins, all of them clad in golden robes, each marked with a distinct symbol, one only found at the gates of Camelot.


    The sight made Samuel freeze, his mind racing to process the meaning behind this unexpected gathering.


    "What is this-"


    "Hello, young Samuel," An orb placed at the center of the mass congregation spoke gleefully revealing itself to be Merlyn, its voice carrying a strange, unsettling warmth.


    Samuel turned his head, his heart skipping a beat as he saw his grandmother slowly donning a golden robe, her presence somehow more commanding than he remembered.


    "We have much to discuss."


    Author''s Note: I f*cked up in eariler chaps and forgot that Alexander''s mentor wasn''t Socrates but Aristole, mb and I''m sorry if their was any confusion

 Chapter 182 - 173: Castle Le Fey

    Chapter 182 - 173: Castle Le Fey


    "Here goes nothing."


    Sigh


    "F*ck~" Ricky exhaled sharply, rubbing his forehead as an uneasy silence settled over the room. Everyone exchanged glances, sensing something off.


    It was strange, after everything that had led to this moment, Ricky had just stopped, as if something had short-circuited inside him.


    "What?!" Morgana blurted out, her chest tightening with suspicion. For a split second, she feared the impossible¡ªthat Ricky had somehow grown a conscience.


    "I can''t believe I went through all that sh*t just to cap it off with something cheesy like ''Here goes nothing,''" Ricky muttered, shaking his head.


    A collective groan filled the air as everyone rolled their eyes while Morgana, however, didn''t react right away.


    Her expression stiffened, her gaze slowly drifting downward from the terrace, the weight of something unspoken settling over her.


    "Are you serious?" Morgana deadpanned, gazing down at Ricky with a long, drawn out stare.


    "Uh yeah, I mean, I say cheesy stuff like that all the time, but that''s on purpose, so it''s fine. But this time, I actually said it without thinking, and I just feel so-" Ricky clutched his shoulder, shuddering as if physically recoiling from the realization.


    "I feel so corny-"


    "RICKY!" Morgana screamed, grabbing at her hair in frustration as Ricky blinked up at her, unbothered.


    "What-oh, right. Freeing you from prison." Ricky remembered, raising his sword as Morgana let out a long, exhausted sigh.


    "Nope, it''s ruined," Ricky admitted, deflating, since there was no way to reclaim the moment, no way to make it special again as he had completely botched it.


    "Please, just destroy the barrier~" Morgana whined, sinking to her knees since at this point, this moment felt more agonizing than the last hundred years.


    "Anything to add, Alexander?" Ricky asked, glancing over his shoulder as the usually stoic gerbil looked just as deflated, lost in thought rather than reacting to the scene before him.


    "What about you, my little murder sword? Got anything to chime in for the big moment?" Ricky continued, now looking down at the weapon in his hand, as if deliberately dragging this out while at the side, Jenkins slowly shook his head.


    ''I simply find it ironic.'' The Ebony Blade finally spoke, its tone heavy with resignation.


    ''The very reason I was bound to Percival in the first place was to prevent the very act you are about to commit.'' The sword''s words carried a weight of centuries, its existence dedicated to stopping this exact moment, to act as Excalibur''s shadow.


    And yet, fate had played its cruel joke, placing it in the hands of someone who not only bore Percival''s likeness but was his own descendant.


    "Are you pissed?" Ricky asked, tilting his head since it felt like the Ebony Blade should have had more of a reaction.


    After all, this moment practically rendered its entire existence meaningless as the very purpose it was meant to fulfill was being undone, and yet, it remained eerily composed.


    ''No, if anything I-.........I feel relieved.'' The Ebony Blade hesitated, its voice softer than Ricky had ever heard it.


    The words settled in Ricky''s mind, their simplicity belying the depth they carried.


    There was no bitterness, no anger, only a quiet acceptance, as if the blade had finally made peace with itself.


    For centuries, the Ebony Blade had been burdened with grievances, but two stood above all others.


    The first was its resentment toward its wielders, those who claimed it, used it, and inevitably fell to its curse.


    The second was its sworn duty to uphold justice, to halt Morgana''s dark influence at all costs, to exist as the shadow cast by Excalibur''s mighty light, and to serve as the tool to the Black Knight.


    But before it was full of hate, before it became a weapon of burden, it had been something else, something beautiful.


    A creation forged from the starstone with a purpose, with power that rivaled the gods themselves.


    But it is said that all are born equal before being set into the arms of their creator.


    The Ebony Blade was once a perfect weapon, forged to be a beacon of light in a universe warped by evil.


    A sword capable of standing against forces beyond the comprehension of men, a tool designed to be an equal to the divine.


    But that beauty had been tainted, twisted once it was set in the hands of the eclipsing darkness that was Merlyn''s self-serving purpose.


    That purpose, one never truly its own, had been carved into the blade''s very essence, tormenting it.


    It towered over the original meaning of the blade, burning it from within, yet for so long, it had carried that duty, unable to escape its predetermined fate.


    That purpose, that duty, had consumed the blade and bound it in this endless cycle of hate and self-loathing, dragging it through countless years of torment and regret.


    But now, at the end of it all, the blade was letting go.


    For the first time since its creation, the Ebony Blade felt like the sword it had always been meant to be.


    The burden had been lifted and it was no longer weighed down by anger or the need to fulfill a purpose forced upon it.


    For the first time, it could finally exhale.


    The suffocating weight of hate, anger, and resentment that had festered in the blade''s core began to dissipate, replaced by a rare, almost tranquil calm.


    For centuries, the Ebony Blade had been nothing more than a tool, a weapon in the hands of others, a prisoner to the will of its creators and its wielders.


    It had always been used, never truly free to exist as it was meant to be.


    But now, in Ricky''s hands, it was finally being used in a way that honored its true nature.


    Not simply to act as another half, but to stand alone and cut through all that stood in the way of its true meaning.


    Ironically, it was still a tool, but Ricky felt the shift, the subtle lightness as if the blade itself was breathing, alive with newfound purpose.


    The chains, once visible in the cracks of its being, had dissolved, vanishing into the air as if they had never been.


    The red electricity that once surged around it now buzzed and crackled with a newfound intensity, but there was no longer any sense of struggle, no war within the blade itself.


    It was at peace.


    The air around Ricky grew still as the blade rose into the air, its form sleek and steady in the quiet.


    This time, instead of the usual crackling tension, the Ebony Blade hummed softly, a deep, soothing energy radiating from it.


    For the first time, the blade was simply free.


    It wasn''t a sword driven by hatred anymore.


    It wasn''t a weapon of vengeance or duty.


    It was free.


    Free to be the Ebony Blade.


    A light updraft of wind swirled around Ricky as he swung the blade in a graceful, downward arc, the motion fluid and powerful.


    Then, with a sudden, crackling surge, the air around them exploded into a storm of red electricity.


    The barrier that had once chained Morgana to this desolate castle, a prison built only as a bastion against her darkness, shattered effortlessly before the Ebony Blade''s power.


    It cut through it like butter, the once-impenetrable sealing barrier crumbling under the weight of the blade''s final, liberated strike.


    In that moment, the castle trembled, the space shook, and the sealing barrier that had once surrounded Morgana was finally destroyed.


    The scene felt anti-climactic to those who had no true connection to the events unfolding, as Ricky remained remarkably nonchalant, almost indifferent, about the monumental moment.


    His hands were steady, his gaze unfocused, like a spectator rather than someone who had just shattered the chains of a centuries-old curse.


    But for Morgana, this was everything.


    Slowly, with the grace of one who had lived far too long in confinement, Morgana reached her hand outwards, her fingers curling as if expecting resistance, as if the air itself would push back.


    But nothing came.


    The space before her felt impossibly empty as her hand pierced through the air with no barrier, no pushback.


    "Ha~" Morgana exhaled a soft, almost disbelieving laugh.


    Her body swayed slightly as the realization hit her, and she stumbled forward, her free hand clutching at her head as if to steady her mind against the dizzying freedom she''d just acquired.


    The world was hers again, and it felt so surreal.


    Unable to contain the surge of exhilaration and disbelief, Morgana hopped off the terrace with a swift, almost graceful movement, her cloak swirling behind her.


    She rushed forward, past Jenkins, past Ricky, past everyone who was too stunned to stop her.


    Her destination was clear, the ruined land of Gorre awaited her return, and with it, an action long overdue.


    WHOOSH


    The air seemed to shift around them, a charged breeze moving as Morgana''s hands crackled with dark green energy.


    Her magic spiraled outward in twisting tendrils, wrapping around her palms before she slammed it into the ground with immense force, sending a shockwave through the earth.


    "Are you going to do anything?" Cedric asked, stepping forward with a sharp glint in his eye as his tone was one of expectation, as if the whole scene should have triggered something from the others.


    "As long as she doesn''t attack me, I don''t f*cking care what she does." Ricky, however, shrugged, his gaze unfazed and more worried when looking at Alexander quietly remaining on his shoulder.


    With that, Morgana''s magic surged, and the very soil beneath her began to stir.


    The salt, the sulfur, the toxic remnants of her cursed land, all of it bubbled up from deep within her domain.


    Before she expelled the air with her breath, forcing the foul miasma to roll like smoke into the atmosphere, filling the land around her with the stench of decay.


    And then, amidst it all, her laughter broke free.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Morgana''s voice echoed, filled with madness and relief, her hands gripping her hair as if to hold onto the reality of her newfound freedom.


    Her eyes, wild with exhilaration, revealed the depths of her release, the weight of centuries of imprisonment finally lifted from her soul.


    She was free.


    HIC


    Morgana''s laugh faltered as the first hiccup of grief broke through, but it didn''t stop the floodgates from opening.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Morgana''s laughter turned into loud, ragged cries, her face tilted skyward, eyes wild and brimming with unshed tears.


    The sound echoed, raw and unrefined, reverberating through the air like the wail of a soul in torment.


    For the first time in centuries, she could truly feel the weight of her release, but funny enough, it was not what she had imagined.


    The pain howled in her voice, a mixture of sorrow, rage, and disbelief as she had lost everything.


    Everything she had built, everything she had claimed as hers, was gone.


    The land that once thrived under her power, the people who followed her every command, all were lost to the ravages of time and battle.


    Her people were dead, her land was dead, and all that remained were the undead, her only companions, slaves to her magic, soulless husks that never knew the warmth of life again.


    It was a cruel existence, locked within the stone walls of a forsaken castle, forced to watch the days pass by as her once-great city crumbled around her.


    What should have been hers, her destiny, her reign, had been stripped away, piece by piece.


    Thwarted at every turn, robbed of every chance at freedom, she had been mentally and spiritually destroyed, until she was nothing but a shadow of herself.


    Now, standing in the open air, the freedom she had longed for felt more like a curse than a gift.


    She was free, but what was left to claim?


    What could she do when all that was once hers had been reduced to ash?


    There was only one answer, one place that still held any semblance of her past, of her power, Avalon.


    The cursed kingdom that once thrived under her rule, now reduced to a hollow memory of what it had been.


    Avalon, the land where her fate had been forged, the place where it all started, Camelot.


    The very name of the capital stung her like a brand, a reminder of all she had lost, all she had sacrificed in the name of her ambition.


    Camelot, the city at the heart of Avalon, the city that had stood tall and proud, a symbol of power and glory, now only a shadow of its former self.


    But it was still hers, she had the bloodline, the claim, the right to rule and no one could take that away from her.


    Even now, with everything in ruins, Camelot was still the heart of Avalon, and in her heart, she knew that if she could reclaim it, she could rebuild everything.


    Her kingdom, her people, her power, it could all be restored.


    Morgana''s eyes narrowed, her hands clenched into fists.


    ''I won''t let everything I''ve fought for become meaningless with another failure.'' Morgana declared, wiping the tears away as her relentless drive overtook her.


    ''I will reach my throne, no matter what it takes.'' Morgana vowed, her eyes reflecting the near future of her new path.


    ''No matter what I have to do.'' Morgana swore solemnly, her voice steady with determination.


    She turned back to Ricky, who was simply waiting, his expression unreadable, as she took a moment to collect herself.


    Clap


    "I didn''t mean to burden you with such unpleasant actions." Morgana said, her regal form manifesting, dispelling the grief from moments ago as she slowly brought her hands together.


    Clap


    Clap


    With two sharp claps, a storm of necrotic butlers and maids emerged from the depths of Castle Le Fey, filing out in two neat single-file lines as their presence was chilling yet impeccably ordered.


    "We have a big campaign ahead of us, so let us relax and dine for tomorrow. Our march begins!" Morgana declared, gesturing to the necrotic servants, who silently began to serve.


    It seemed that Morgana had a servant for every single witch and even every undead under Ricky''s command.


    One such servant appeared before Boney and Chuck, bowing gracefully as they stood, ready for whatever came next.


    "As my esteemed guests, you will be treated with the highest degree of respect and given your own personal attendant," Morgana announced, her voice smooth and confident.


    "Ask anything of them, and they will fetch it to the best of their ability." Morgana smiled warmly, her gaze sweeping over the necrotic army that would fight alongside her, a force that would soon make her claim to the throne unshakable.


    The coven exchanged uncertain glances, a flicker of unease passing between them as they couldn''t shake the feeling of being useless, even now.


    Their time following Ricky had been spent on the sidelines, traveling to Lilith''s castle, bickering about their identities, and watching as Ricky fought against Team Excalibur.


    They had done little more than stand by, and yet here they were, seemingly rewarded for their lackluster efforts.


    Despite the grand spectacle unfolding, the coven''s pride felt bruised, their sense of purpose unclear.


    The coven members'' eyes lingered on Ricky, a mix of doubt and frustration etched across their faces.


    It was as if they were silently asking him if this whole situation was really all right but Ricky, noticing their gaze, wiped his face in confusion.


    "What? Do I have something on my face?" Ricky wondered aloud and yet, the coven continued to look at him, their eyes heavy with unspoken questions.


    "What?" Ricky repeated, growing slightly uncomfortable under their scrutiny as the coven quickly ducked their heads, but Eldric stepped forward, his expression somber.


    "We feel worthless," Eldric said quietly, the words laced with frustration.


    "Like we''re just tagging along rather than avenging our ancestors, our loved ones-"


    "So?" Ricky said, not even hesitating when cutting him off as his voice was blunt and unapologetic, forcing Eldric to pause, taken aback by the sudden interruption.


    "If you feel some type of way about it, then stop feeling sorry for yourself and do something about it." Ricky continued, raising his gaze, looking at him with a frown as if it was obvious.


    The words hung in the air, as if Ricky had thrown a challenge at them since it wasn''t his responsibility to be their therapist or to comfort them.


    They had a role to play, and he expected them to step up.


    They were here to follow him, but it was up to them to make their own path along the way.


    Eldric stood in silence for a moment, brooding as Ricky''s words settled in his mind.


    Finally, he looked at the necrotic butler assigned to him, a spark of determination flickering in his eyes.


    "Maybe I will." Eldric muttered, gesturing for the necrotic butler to move forward.


    Without another word, he followed it into the notorious Castle Le Fey, his steps heavier but with a new sense of resolve.


    As the last of the coven members filed into the castle behind their undead servants, the atmosphere shifted.


    Ricky watched as the group moved, his own servants trailing quietly behind him as the core group remained, standing outside the looming walls of Castle Le Fey.


    The last to leave was Cedric, he lingered for a moment at the entrance, his eyes scanning over the group.


    There was something in his gaze, an unspoken hesitation.


    He looked back at Ricky, but without saying a word, he turned and walked into the castle, leaving the others behind.


    Now, only Ricky, Morgana, Jenkins, Asterion, Alexander, and Bucephalus stood outside, all sort of wondering what to do next.


    "So, the chalice." Ricky said, sparking some much needed flavor into this stale atmosphere.


    "Yes, the chalice." Morgana chuckled, clapping her hands together and gesturing towards Ricky.


    "Allow me to personally show you the way," Morgana said, her voice soft, almost velvet her tone more a command than a request.


    She beckoned Ricky to follow her while turning towards the castle, his eyes instinctively traced downwards, drifting towards her plump ass, taking in the curve of her figure with an almost imperceptible glance.


    "Jenkins, dear, would you be so kind as to show his companions around?" Morgana asked, her tone more direct than polite, as she strutted toward the castle as Ricky followed behind her, placing his hands behind his head and just shamelessly staring at her ass swaying with the swerve of her hips.


    "I would be honored, your majesty," Jenkins replied smoothly, bowing deeply as he then turned toward the Minotaur, who was still marveling at the castle''s intricate architecture, while Bucephalus cast a critical glare around the surroundings, clearly unimpressed by the structure in comparison to the grandeur of Alexander''s.


    "Camelot''s not that far. Don''t you just wanna, like, go out and punch some sh*t?" Ricky asked, genuinely curious as to why, after gaining her freedom, Morgana was heading back to her cage.


    "Camelot is a day''s ride, and that''s excluding magical transportation," Morgana replied, her voice smooth, almost teasing.


    "Besides, I''ve waited hundreds of years for freedom. Waiting a mere day for my throne is nothing." Morgana side-eyed Ricky, a smirk playing on her lips as her heels clicked sharply on the floor.


    "Alexander the Great wouldn''t have waited a day for his throne, right, man?" Ricky said, glancing over his shoulder at Alexander, who stood silently, staring deeply into the distance.


    However, even though Ricky called out his monocure, something he never did, he didn''t even get a smug response but rather, silence.


    "Ah, yes." Alexander said, snapping out of his daze and forcing a smile as he stood up.


    "I think I, too, want to roam around the castle, really take in its sights." Alexander said, quickly scurrying down Ricky''s armor before hopping onto the ground.


    "Are you sure? Ever since that valley, you''ve been a little off-"


    "I''m fine." Alexander interrupted, but his voice lacked conviction, and his head turned to the side, a subtle shift that betrayed something deeper.


    Ricky, sensing the unease, tried to press further, but when he saw the tension in Alexander''s posture, he stopped.


    The sole reason being that whenever Ricky was at his lowest, during his most painful moments, Alexander never pried into his personal struggles and simply waited.


    Now, it was Ricky''s turn to extend that same kindness.


    "Alright, man." Ricky nodded, watching as Alexander gave a subtle nod in return.


    The two walked forward through the halls, with Alexander tracing his paw against the hard surface, his steps echoing faintly in the silence of the castle while walking in the opposite direction.


    "Merlyn always used to preach about Alexander''s tales," Morgana suddenly said, her voice cutting through the silence as she walked alongside Ricky through the maze-like castle.


    "He''d always bask in the glory of young Arthur''s legacy, how he rose from the shadow of his father and became a king that outshines everyone around him." Morgana continued, her tone smooth, almost flattering as she glanced at Alexander.


    It was an attempt to earn Ricky''s favor, but he merely looked to the side, his expression unreadable.


    "Well, Alexander ain''t just a king," Ricky muttered, his words catching Morgana slightly off-guard. From what she had heard, that was his greatest achievement.


    "What more could Alexander the Great be than the king who inspired men to follow him toward conquest after conquest?" Morgana asked, her gaze narrowing as she looked at Ricky.


    He turned toward her with a frown, clearly not interested in just the simple narrative she had in mind.


    "I won''t sit here and give you some fairytale bullsh*t about how he''s my friend and that''s more than being a king," Ricky suddenly stopped, holding up his hand before looking down.


    "But even if it''s cheesy and even if you don''t agree, people always tell me how great a king he was, but I never hear sh*t about how Alexander always did everything for those around him." Ricky said, his frown deepening as he shook his head, his tone carrying a mix of frustration and something more personal.


    "A lot of people gave up on me, treated me like a lost cause, and for a long time, I f*cking believed it. But Alexander, man, he and my pops Lucky are people you only meet once in a goddamn lifetime." Ricky laughed, slicking his hand through his hair while turning hsi head towards the ceiling.


    "I don''t understand." Morgana''s brow furrowed slightly as Ricky let out a long breath, looking away for a moment before meeting her eyes again.


    "What I''m trying to say is that they can look past all the sh*t in the ground and see the diamonds in people. I wanna be like that, not some king." Ricky''s words were heavy, filled with a quiet conviction, a deeper longing for something more than titles or power.


    Morgana was slightly taken aback by Ricky''s words, watching him as he seemed to process the weight of what he''d just said as hhe was trying to articulate the feelings that had been swirling in his mind for so long.


    "God, now that I think about it, maybe I''m trying too hard to be like Lucky in New York." Ricky muttered, a hint of frustration in his voice at the realization that dawned on him.


    "Alexander always says, ''You can''t be anyone other than yourself,'' and I think-" Ricky paused, the pieces falling into place, and then he let out a soft laugh.


    "F*ck, I think I just realized what he meant."


    As they arrived at the massive vault at the center of Castle Le Fey, Morgana flinched, her expression tightening as she turned her attention toward the vault, her mind suddenly shifting back to the task at hand.


    "Anyways, let''s just get this ebony family reunion over with, and not the good kind," Ricky sighed, his words causing the ebony artifacts to almost seem to flicker in the dim light, as if they didn''t fully understand what he meant.


    "Uh, yeah." Morgana replied, momentarily speechless.


    Ricky had this way of randomly spouting things that didn''t always make sense to her and yet resonated deeply, but she''d learned not to question it as she lifted her hand, signaling that it was time to move forward.


    Click


    Click


    Click


    The vault slowly began to mechanize under Morgana''s magic, each click echoing through the air like a never-ending series of gears turning. Ricky crossed his arms, leaning back slightly, waiting with a look of mild impatience.


    "Aren''t you guys a little excited to see your youngest sibling-"


    "No."


    The response came in unison, cold and almost mechanical as the Ebony Shield and Crown spoke for the first time since Ricky had pissed on them, an act that had left a literal and figurative rotten taste in their mouths.


    It was clear they hadn''t forgiven him, and they weren''t exactly thrilled to be dealing with him again nor coming in contact with their sibling.


    Morgana side-eyed this, watching Ricky talk to himself before hte vault to her castle''s treasure slowly opened.


    Artwork, jewels, gold, and silver, everything one could possibly imagine, was revealed before Ricky as the vault slowly opened, its contents practically spilling out.


    Yet, Ricky barely reacted as the overwhelming display of wealth no longer impressed him.


    Alexander was right: wealth gravitates around the strong, whether material or spiritual.


    But for Ricky, all the gold and riches had started to feel like nothing more than an endless tide of excess.


    ''I should steal some of this.''


    Despite the abundance of wealth surrounding him, the temptation tugged at Ricky as he was still that greedy man, the one who once would''ve taken it all without hesitation.


    But now, he fought the urge, trying not to push Morgana aside and snatch everything away from her.


    "Is this it?" Ricky asked, holding up a red ruby chalice, its gold accents gleaming in the dim light. Morgana shook her head.


    "No¡ª"


    "Got it." Ricky interrupted, a sly grin spreading across his face as he tapped the key tattoo on his arm. In an instant, the mark glowed and the space around him warped, materializing into a black portal that opened with an eerie hum.


    Without hesitation, he slipped the chalice into the void, a knowing look on his face as he closed the portal behind him.


    Throwing the ruby chalice inside without a second thought, Morgana was a little shocked at how bluntly Ricky stole from her, not even bothering to hesitate or make a show of it.


    "What about this?" Ricky asked, holding up an emerald chalice, its surface shimmering with a deep, almost unnatural glow. Morgana frowned, a hint of irritation creeping in.


    "No, it''s-"


    "Geez, so many chalices," Ricky muttered, cutting her off as he casually tossed the emerald chalice into the storage space as Morgana''s frown deepened, her gaze narrowing as she watched him.


    "It''s right here-"


    "What about this one-"


    "IT''S RIGHT HERE!" Morgana yelled, just as Ricky picked up a chalice covered in sapphires. He looked at the black chalice in her hand, then back at the one in his own.


    "Oh, good," Ricky said, nodding to himself, clearly satisfied with his find.


    Without a second thought, he tossed the sapphire-encrusted chalice into his storage space, then turned and walked toward Morgana, who was now facing him.


    "Are you enjoying yourself?" Morgana asked, her tone genuine, though her stare remained deadpan as she observed him and Ricky paused, his eyes narrowing in thought before he finally nodded.


    "Yeah, I think I am." Ricky replied, clearly satisfied with his answer as his hands gripped the ebony chalice, its surface coated in layers of dust.


    The chalice itself was completely black, with only the faintest red accents tracing four crosses, one on each side, pointing in different directions.


    Despite its age and the dust that clung to it, Ricky couldn''t help but be drawn to the water inside.


    It looked impossibly clear, as pristine and untouched as anything he had ever seen as he stared into it, entranced by its flawless surface.


    "So do I drink it or-"


    "Yes."


    ''Yes."


    Both Morgana and the ebony siblings frowned in unison as they watched Ricky bring the ebony chalice to his lips. His fingers tightened around it, as though instinctively drawn to the mysterious liquid within.


    "F*ck it," Ricky muttered to himself, shaking off any remaining hesitation. Without another thought, he tipped the chalice and took a long gulp.


    As the liquid passed his lips, his eyes suddenly dilated, a shockwave of realization hitting him all at once.


    Everything changed in an instant.


    Ricky''s world exploded into a kaleidoscope of unimaginable depth, each layer unraveling into a tangled web of realities.


    The water from the chalice wasn''t just a drink, it was a doorway and as it slid down his throat, it pulled him into a vast, swirling void, a plane of existence where time, space, and energy intertwined into a chaotic but perfectly orchestrated symphony.


    He was no longer confined to his body, no longer bound by the limitations of the physical world.


    His pupils, his vision expanded beyond what the eye could comprehend as everything, all events, all possibilities, all outcomes, played out before him.


    They were not just flashes or images, but lived experiences, shifting in real-time as if he were standing inside the very currents of time itself.


    Screens, like fragments of broken glass, plastered before him as they flickered and moved with precision, highlighting the exact possibilities of what would happen.


    Future events unfolded like a film reel, each frame giving him a glimpse of a life yet to be lived.


    It wasn''t just the present or the future, Ricky could feel parallel realities, parallel versions of himself, all playing out at once.


    Then, the colors flooded his vision, vivid, searing shades that distorted his senses.


    Blues, reds, yellows, and blacks blurred together into a violent, overwhelming flow of energy.


    It was like a flood of emotion, memory, and future all crashing into his consciousness as he could feel the weight of every possibility, every choice, and every consequence pushing against him.


    It was literally one second, but his mind felt completely burdened by the power unleashed on it as it all rushed into one cataclysmic response.


    "Holy sh*t-"


    THUMP


    Ricky''s face planted into the ground but instead of recoiling in shock, Morgana and the ebony siblings stood in the background, silently observing as if this was perfectly normal


    "HIYA!"


    Inside Ricky''s mental space, a new reflection of himself appeared, but this one was a bit different.


    With two large buck teeth and hair parted neatly at the sides, he waddled enthusiastically over to the other three.


    Sigh


    "Hey, youngest-"


    "OH BOY, OH BOY, OH BOY, IS IT GOOD TO REUNITE MY SIBLINGS AGAIN!" The Ebony Chalice gleefully shouted, waddling toward them and pulling the others into a tight, exaggerated hug.


    The siblings'' faces twisted in collective distaste, their frowns deepening, but they didn''t push the youngest away.


    They had learned long ago that there was no stopping the chaotic energy that came with the Chalice''s presence


    The Ebony Blade wasn''t joking when he said his youngest sibling was on the spectrum¡ªit literally was.


    The Ebony Chalice induced a power that allowed its user to gaze into the spectrum, into all the realities of the future, past, and present.


    It was as if the chalice granted access to the very fabric of existence, showing every thread of possibility woven into the timeline.


    The Chalice was not exactly a chalice as its form was as fluid as its power, able to become a gateway to everything, every possibility, every outcome.


    But, as with all Ebony artifacts, the visions came with a cost as it didn''t corrupt the mind or unleash hidden desires, but instead, they split its focus.


    Usually, this shattered the minds of those who dared to gaze into the spectrum, for it housed billions upon trillions of possibilities, and that was merely the beginning.


    The chalice revealed not just a single future, but infinite versions of every moment, every choice.


    The overwhelming weight of this knowledge splintered the user''s perception, leaving them lost in a maze of endless possibilities, unable to grasp a solid reality.


    "Fck, fck, fck, FCK, FCK, FCK!"


    Suddenly, a constant stream of curse words echoed through the air, a man''s anguished voice crying out as he fell to his knees. Ricky''s eyes darted around, trying to make sense of the chaotic vision unfolding before him.


    "What the-" Ricky muttered, his breath shallow as the scene unraveled in front of him.


    "I should''ve put more things in place, I SHOULD''VE F*CKING DONE MORE!" The man''s voice roared, filled with grief and fury, as he stared down at the grave before him.


    His hands trembled, tracing the cold stone, but his eyes were glazed with regret, surrounded by scattered bottles of booze, a symbol of his futile attempts to numb the pain.


    The scene twisted around him as if reality itself was falling apart.


    "What''s up with this guy?" Ricky muttered, staring at the chaotic scene unfolding before him. His eyes widened when the man, drenched by the pouring rain, slowly lifted his gaze to the sky. Ricky froze.


    It was him¡ªbut it wasn''t.


    The man before him looked completely ragged, eyes sunken, dark bags beneath them, and his aftershave only made the weariness of his face more pronounced. The same, but different.


    "What the hell... what is going¡ª" Ricky laughed, assuming this was some kind of flashback, a moment in his past, only for his gaze to fall on the gravestones surrounding him.


    ''Agatha Harkness.''


    ''Raven Darkholme.''


    ''Danielle Luciano.''


    ''Zatanna Luciano.''


    ''Johnny Luciano-


    They just went on and one, the names blurred together, each one a reminder of lost connections, people who had left his life one way or another.


    And then, his hands froze, tracing down to the final gravestone.


    ''Tommy ''Lucky'' Luciano.''


    The name hit him like a freight train as his breath quickened, heart racing as it all came crashing down.


    "WHAT THE F*CK IS GOING ON!" Ricky screamed, his voice raw with frustration as he staggered back, clutching his head in an attempt to wake from what he thought was some twisted dream.


    But it felt too real, too damn real.


    This wasn''t just some vision, it was him, but not him as the version of himself in front of him was a shattered reflection, torn apart by his failure.


    The man, ragged and broken, slammed his head against the gravestone with a sickening thud.


    "I should''ve expected it. I should''ve expected more f*cking rats, it wasn''t just one, it was an entire goddamn infestation." This version of Ricky''s words slurred with bitterness, and Ricky could feel the weight of the man''s anguish as he slowly gazed up at the sky, hollow-eyed.


    Ricky''s heart pounded in his chest, his eyes shrinking as something shifted in the air, a warning creeping up his spine.


    Then, that future version of himself turned toward him.


    "Do more." The words were dripping with cynical amusement as if seeing this version of himself, and the man, Ricky, held the Ebony Blade to his heart.


    He didn''t hesitate and with a sickening grunt, he drove the blade deep into his chest.


    "Wait, STOP-" Ricky tried to shout, but before he could move, the man''s hand reached out, fingers trembling as he collapsed to the ground.


    GASP


    HUFF


    HUFF


    HUFF


    "Ricky?"


    The sound echoed in the stillness, and Ricky''s head snapped toward it as his gaze shifted quickly, and he found himself staring at a surreal scene as day bled into night.


    He was lying on a couch, the flickering light of a green fire casting eerie shadows behind him. Morgana raised an eyebrow, watching him curiously.


    "If you''re worried, The Ebony Chalice usually incapacitates everyone the first time-"


    "AYE, CHALICE!" Ricky yelled, standing up and looking around until he saw all the ebony artifacts neatly placed at the side.


    ''Well, hiya-"


    "SHUT UP, WHAT WAS THAT!" Ricky interrupted the Ebony Chalice introduction, gripping both his hands around the handle and pressing down as if choking it.


    "What was what-"


    "WHY DID I SEE THAT? TELL ME!" Ricky demanded, his voice frantic and wild as his sudden outburst shocked Morgana, especially considering that when she had drunk from the chalice the first time, all it had given her was a splitting headache.


    "Ricky, what is the matter?" Morgana asked, trying to calm him down. A single strand of his hair dangled in front of his face as his crazed eyes locked onto hers.


    "This motherf*cker just showed me the gravestones of my family, ALL OF THEM!" Ricky yelled, shaking as the water spilled out.


    "Calm down, Ricky. Just wait," Morgana cooed softly, closing her eyes as she reached out, connecting with her body double in New York.


    But instead of witnessing an attack or some impending destruction, she saw Raven standing at the counter, wiping it off with a cloth as she paused, locking eyes with the doll.


    "What is it?" Raven asked, her voice tinged with concern as she looked at the doll. Morgana''s body double, which had been placed in Raven''s house to operate freely, finally stirred to life.


    "Is everything alright?" Morgana asked, her tone filled with anxiety. Raven furrowed her brow at the question, clearly taken aback.


    "To my knowledge, it is," Raven replied, still staring at the doll with a hint of confusion.


    Raven then stepped forward, gently grabbing Danielle by the arm and pulling her back just as she was about to approach the silent, curious woman.


    Raven''s eyes flickered back to the doll, trying to gauge what exactly was going on.


    "I see."


    That is all she said before closing her eyes again and opening it to a completely paranoid Ricky who didn''t care to even wait a second.


    "What are you doing?" Morgana suddenly asked, her voice sharp as she watched Ricky begin to put on the ebony artifacts, his undead minions gathering outside at his command.


    "I''m leaving," Ricky revealed, his words sending a shock through Morgana. She quickly stepped forward, attempting to stop him.


    "You can''t leave-" Morgana started, but Ricky cut her off with a scoff.


    "Like hell I can''t, watch me." Ricky said confidently, opening a portal with a wave of his hand.


    Before he could step through, Morgana reacted quickly, creating her own portal directly over his.


    The moment Ricky tried to enter his, he found himself walking right back into the same spot he had started from.


    Ricky shot her a deadpan stare, his eyes boring into hers as he sliced through the portal with a swift motion. But before he could make any progress, Morgana crossed her arms and effortlessly sealed it back up.


    "Really?" Ricky asked, his voice laced with disbelief as he studied this regal, unflinching queen who raised her gaze to meet his, her posture calm but unwavering.


    "If you think Merlyn will let it go-"


    "I don''t care-


    "You should." Morgana replied, her tone cool and measured as she closed her eyes for a moment, and when she opened them again, Ricky could see the subtle shift in her expression, a frown tugging at her lips.


    "He''s a monster, someone who cares about only one thing, and that''s even beyond me. But let me say this, he''ll do anything, ANYTHING, to get his way." Morgana placed a hand over her heart, squeezing it tightly.


    "I''m not threatening you, but speaking from my own life experience when I say he killed everyone I ever knew and loved." Morgana revealed, gazing deeply into his green eyes as if trying to sway him away from this decision.


    "You think I don''t know that if he attacks me once, he''ll attack me again?" Ricky said, watching as she opened her mouth to retort, but he cut her off, silencing her with his stare.


    "I know, I f*cking knows he will, and I know he''s using me for some grand scheme, but I just saw a vision, or the future, or something of me, standing before the graves of my family, and then I just killed myself." Ricky said, pointing to the chalice, which started crying at his words.


    ''T-That''s so sad~'' the Ebony Chalice sniffled, tears streaming down his face as Ricky gave him a disgusted look.


    "Can you shut the f*ck up?" Ricky asked the Ebony Chalice, gazing down at it like some sort of crazy person trying to tell the voices in their heads to stop speaking to them.


    "I''m not running away, I''m going to go make sure-"


    "You''re here because Merlyn wants you here." Morgana suddenly said, gazing directly into his eyes as Ricky frowned.


    "Camelot, Avalon, Otherworld are all controlled by Merlny and he sees everything, in fact, I bet he''s watching from outside the castle right now." Morgana said, pointing out a window that actually, in fact, did have Merlyn watching in on them, squinting as if watching in scrupulous detail.


    "I don''t know why, but he wants you here. He wants you to attack Camelot, and if you deviate from that plan, he''ll deviate from it as well." Morgana took a step closer, placing both her hands on his shoulders.


    "He''s been planning something for centuries, he has the resources to come after you, and I know it''s frustrating, but the only way to beat him is at his own game." Morgana said with a deep tone, locking her gaze with his as Ricky clenched his fists.


    "I can''t stop you, I won''t, but I''m speaking from experience when I say this is our only shot." Morgana''s voice was firm, her eyes steady.


    Never, not once, had Merlyn ever sat idle like this, and it had to involve Ricky in some way, somehow.


    Merlyn had come to Gorre after having enough of her, destroyed her entire army, sealed her away, and burned everything she ever knew, before salting the ground, rubbing it into the very soil.


    The memories of that defeat were burned into her mind, and she knew all too well how relentless he could be.


    "He''s a monster. He will never stop coming after you. It''s safer to go after him," Morgana said, her words steady. Ricky''s shoulder slowly relaxed as the weight of her words sank in.


    For all intents and purposes, she was right.


    Merlyn had been luring him to Otherworld and Ricky now realized that Merlyn could''ve sent those super powered people to New York whenever he wanted, but he only chose to send them once Ricky reached London.


    It was like he was luring him like some sort of mouse, placing cheese after cheese towards a trap.


    What unsettled him more, though, was that Merlyn wasn''t hindering him but empowering him which made it all the more annoying in his eyes.


    "F*ck~" Ricky said, sighing as he pinched the bridge of his nose and sat back down.


    "Fine, dammit-no, I gotta do something." Ricky suddenly muttered, his mind racing. Morgana bit her lip, watching him as he gave the order.


    However instead of opening a portal to the outside, Ricky''s command took a different turn.


    The undead army he had taken from New York was being returned, one by one.


    All except the named ones, the loyal ones he had kept close: Boney, Chuck, Corpse Colossus, and his new toy, the Dullahan.


    "If you want me to continue prancing around in the palm of his hands, I want half your army." Ricky suddenly said, watching Morgana issue a sigh of relief.


    "Of course-"


    "To go to New York." Ricky finished his sentence, watching Morgana contort her expression in unease.


    "Ricky, I understand-"


    "I''m not asking you, Morgana. This is what it''s going to take," Ricky''s voice grew cold, his eyes burning with a deadly determination.


    Morgana gritted her teeth, her gaze hardening, and with a swift motion, she snapped her fingers.


    Snap


    "Fine," Morgana muttered under her breath, her tone laced with frustration. In an instant, her undead surged out from the castle gates.


    But these weren''t the usual white skeletons and mundane zombies; these were darker, twisted versions.


    Their bones were completely blackened, a menacing aura radiating from them as they emerged, creatures of shadow and death, far more sinister than the usual fare.


    Ricky suddenly flicked a device through the portal, the trigger that Chuck had given him as it suddenly plopped onto the countertop in front of Raven.


    Raven raised an eyebrow for a moment before the realization hit her as she recognized what it was, the very thing that had irritated Agatha, much to her amusement.


    With a sly grin, she snatched it up and pocketed it.


    But her amusement quickly turned into curiosity as her gaze shifted to the sudden sight of an army of undead marching into her backyard as she raised another eyebrow, puzzled.


    It wasn''t just her backyard, though.


    The same portal had appeared at every one of their houses, from Raven''s to Irene''s.


    Each of his women looked out to see skeletons surrounding their homes, an eerie and unexpected invasion that none of them had anticipated but weirdly enough, it was for their protection.


    "Keep in contact with them. I want to know the second something happens-actually, I''ll just ask you myself. And before you think about it, I can tell if you lie," Ricky said, his gaze finally softening as he rubbed his head, then flopped down onto the couch, letting out a deep sigh.


    Sigh


    Ricky heaved a sigh, trying to steady himself, but that image lingered, gnawing at the edges of his mind as he stared up at the ceiling.


    "Care for a drink?" Morgana asked, stepping into his view with a knowing smile.


    For all intents and purposes, Ricky loved sex.


    It was a simple fact, reinforced by how willingly he conformed to the system that had granted him all this power.


    But not once, not once, had his lust for pleasure ever outweighed his lust for power more than it did in this moment.


    Gazing at Morgana, he saw the stunning woman who could make men weak with a glance but for what felt like the first time in his life, he didn''t want her.


    He wanted the power that came from her.


    Ding


    "Yeah, I think I''d like that," Ricky murmured, his fingers grazing her hand as Morgana raised an eyebrow, her smile deepening before she turned to pour them both a drink.


    [Mission Received: Morgana Le Fay]


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: SS


    Description: Morgana is a regal queen, exuding confidence and authority, yet beneath her composure lies centuries of buried pain and betrayal. Her insecurities remain hidden under the weight of her crown, but in rare moments, a mischievous, almost childish side emerges, a fleeting reminder that beneath power and duty, she is still human. If managed to open up to that side of her, then it wouldn''t be that hard to truly open her legs.


    Objective: Pelvic thrust repeatedly into her breedable hips.


    Reward: 750,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once:


    Rewards: 7 Legendary Gacha, 15 Epic Gacha, and 50 regular Gacha Or Morgana Le Fay Powers


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Unveil Her Queenly Form With Your Cock(Incomplete):


    Reward: Mythic Coupon


    Make The Queen Beg For Your Cock(Incomplete):


    Reward: 5 Legendary Coupons


    Bonus Missions:


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    [Do you wish to accept?]


    [Yes/No]


    Ricky''s eyes locked onto Morgana, but for what felt like the first time in his life, he saw only the mission, not the woman bending down before him.


    ''Yeah, accept.''


    Author''s Note: sorry for the last post, here ya go

 Chapter 183 - 174: Morgana Le F*ck (R18)

    Chapter 183 - 174: Morgana Le F*ck (R18)


    "Holy sh*t, is that Hell Wine?" Ricky''s attempt at playing it cool shattered the moment he laid eyes on the bottle Morgana retrieved from her cellar.


    The (Legendary Skill) Toxic Immunity granted Ricky an unparalleled resistance to an absurd range of poisons, so extensive that it would baffle anyone who truly understood its scope.


    Yet, the only thing Ricky cared about was the fact that, despite his already superhuman vitality making it difficult for him to get drunk, this skill had now made it outright impossible.


    It was the main reason he had started switching to cigars as alcohol had lost all effect on him, reducing drinking to nothing more than a social formality.


    The one and only time Ricky had ever managed to get drunk was during his trial, when he tasted the illustrious Hell Wine, Mephisto''s own concoction.


    It had been potent enough to bypass even his superhuman vitality and later, even with Toxic Immunity, it remained the only drink that could affect him.


    The problem was that he had a limited supply and Ricky didn''t like the demon enough to reach out again.


    Yet, he had been tempted, so f*cking tempted that he had seriously considered making another deal.


    And then, out of nowhere, Morgana pulled out a bottle.


    "It is." Morgana chuckled, watching Ricky all but drool as his eyes locked onto the swirling liquid pouring from the bottle into one of the two wine glasses.


    "Am I to assume you''ve met Mephisto?" Morgana asked, amusement dancing on her tongue as Ricky let out a heavy sigh, running a hand down his face that only made Morgana chuckle more.


    "Much like this hell wine, he is an acquired taste," Morgana said with a smile, filling Ricky''s glass before pouring her own.


    "Well, unlike this f*cking delicious hell wine, I have yet to enjoy Mephisto," Ricky muttered, taking a sip as the bitter yet demonically sweet flavor swirled across his tongue, a taste both intoxicating and infuriating in its rarity.


    Gulp


    "Oh, sweet baby Jesus, that is better than sex~" Ricky sighed in relief, already feeling the warm rush flood through his body as he downed the entire glass in one gulp.


    Morgana''s eyes lifted at his statement as she swirled the wine in her glass, a smirk playing on her lips. With a flick of her fingers, glowing with a soft purple hue, five bottles suddenly lined up perfectly in front of Ricky''s now-empty glass.


    There were many ways to a man''s heart, and for Ricky, one of them was really, really good booze.


    "I shouldn''t-"


    "I insist-"


    "I mean, if you insist." Ricky didn''t even let her finish, hungrily grabbing a bottle and ripping off the cap as Morgana stared at him for a long moment, her smirk widening with amusement.


    Gulp


    Gulp


    Watching Ricky down the entire bottle of hell wine like a sailor starved for years, Morgana leaned back on the couch, her gaze distant and thoughtful.


    She swirled the wine in her glass, watching the deep, purplish-red liquid swirl with a pensive smile playing on her lips.


    Her eyes fell to the reflection in her glass, focusing on her own image, distorted in the liquid.


    This wasn''t just a drink, it was liquid courage, a means to cast aside her pride and reach for the very thing she had wanted most.


    The last time she rejected the hand of a powerful man, she''d found herself chained for centuries and Morgana refused to make that mistake again.


    Morgana knew exactly what kind of man Ricky was and what it would cost for him to give her his full support.


    She understood the price, and she was willing to pay it since people had given up more for less.


    With that thought weighing heavily in her mind, she closed her eyes and drained the entire glass, savoring the warmth that spread through her.


    She wiped her lips with her thumb just as Ricky, about to reach for the next bottle, suddenly froze.


    "Woah, look at you." Ricky chuckled, his eyes wide as he watched Morgana grab another bottle to pour herself another glass.


    "I took you for someone who''d nurse their drink through the entire night, but here I am, slack-jawed and wrong." Ricky said, tipping the bottle toward her, ripping off the cork with a swift motion, all while Morgana smiled, amused by his reaction.


    "What kind of host would I be if I didn''t keep up with my esteemed guest?" Morgana asked, raising her glass with a playful smirk.


    "A sober one!" Ricky laughed, tipping the wine bottle to his lips and enjoying another stream of hell wine flushing down his gullet.


    Morgana laughed, joining in on the festivities and drinking her fill, though slower than Ricky, who reluctantly released the bottle from his lips.


    "Alright, I gotta ask you something that''s been on my mind," Ricky suddenly heaved, forcefully plucking the hell wine bottle away from his longing lips.


    Morgana opened one of her eyes, savoring her second glass, her curiosity piqued while staring directly at him.


    "If it is in my power then please, ask away." Morgana assured, closing it and savoring the taste as the armor filled her nose.


    "What happened with you and Percival in that throne room?" Ricky asked, his words causing Morgana to freeze, the liquid about to pour onto her lips halting mid-air.


    His question was loosely referring to a memory that had been on repeat in his mind when he was younger.


    However Morgana knew the exact moment he was referring to as she sort of sat there for a second before opening her eyes.


    "Ah, you''re referring to Camelot''s civil war," Morgana said, her gaze dropping along with her glass that she slowly sat down.


    "Uh, I guess," Ricky replied, unsure where that memory had come from but simply going with the flow as Morgana spoke.


    "Do you know what''s funny about the fall of the storied kingdom of Camelot?" Morgana suddenly laughed, swirling the wine glass around in her hand as Ricky raised an eyebrow.


    "It all started when it was exposed that Sir Lancelot was engaged in an affair with Queen Guinevere." Morgana said, smirking a little at how the chain events all started at that specific moment as Ricky laughed.


    "No f*cking way."


    "Yes way."


    "Did you, like, manipulate them into betraying Arthur so they could be together?" Ricky asked, his eyes curious as he watched Morgana shake her head slowly.


    "No, at that time, Camelot had reached its peak of prosperity, but the lands were surrounded by enemies, everyone wanting to carve out a piece of its glory for themselves." Morgana replied, a faint sigh escaping her lips at remembering the highest reaches her kingdom climbed.


    "So you joined their enemies and then laid siege to Camelot?" Ricky guessed, pointing the already half-empty third bottle at her as she smirked.


    "No, I had come to Arthur, my brother, in hopes of an alliance against the growing number of enemies surrounding not just the lands that belonged to me, but lands that I had ruled on my own." Morgana smiled, remembering the times when Gorre was still within the human realm.


    "Before Merlyn had destroyed it." Morgana then shrugged, knowing that the only living residents on Gorre were probably the scorch worms that thrive in such environments.


    "Well, after Arthur caught them in the act, he-" Morgana was about to say only for Ricky to lean forward, already knowing where she was going with this conversation.


    "No, don''t tell me-"


    "Yes, Arthur, my kind brother, forgave them." Morgana finished his interruption with her own, properly acknowledging it.


    "The f*ck, why?" Ricky asked, watching Morgana shrug, since she didn''t understand half the things he did.


    "Who knows, but he forgave them both." Morgana genuinely, for the life of her, couldn''t understand why Arthur did the things he did, since they were two sides of the same coin.


    One was willing to do everything for others, while the other only did things for herself.


    "So did that Lancelot guy kill him?" Ricky at least asked, thinking that''s how the civil war had to start, but Morgana chuckled.


    "No, it was actually my aide and Arthur''s bastard son, Mordred, who stabbed him and wounded him before all the kingdoms surrounding him invaded." Morgana revealed, watching the man with many bastards of his own sip on the hell win with a brooding expression.


    "Damn, I suck at guessing." Ricky said, licking his lips and setting down the second empty bottle of hell wine before picking up his third.


    "I want to ask if the other invading kingdoms killed him, but I''m guessing it''s not that simple." Ricky was about to say, only to double back on himself, realizing that two double negatives meant a positive.


    "Unfortunately, no. If things couldn''t get any more dire, a Nethergod invaded Earth." Morgana said, her words causing Ricky to stop drinking and look back at her.


    "But I thought the Starlight Citadel¡ª"


    "The Starlight Citadel isn''t what stops the Nether Gods and all those in other dimensions from invading Earth," Morgana interjected, her voice steady.


    "It merely stops those who leak out." Morgana words ensnared Ricky in yet another web of history, pulling him deeper into a truth he hadn''t even considered.


    "I swear to God, if it''s the power of friendship keeping them at bay, I''m gonna lose my sh*t," Ricky said, fed up with all the make-believe nonsense and just wanting something simple, something straightforward for once.


    "Hahahahaha~" Morgana suddenly burst out laughing at Ricky''s joke, genuinely finding it hilarious as she wiped her eyes.


    "No, Ricky-hahahahaha~" Morgana tried to speak, but she couldn''t stop laughing, her buzz amplifying the humor of the lukewarm joke as she doubled over with laughter.


    Ricky, feeling the buzz kicking in, poured himself a generous helping from his third, well, technically fourth, bottle of wine.


    Morgana wiped her eyes, the tears forming from laughter still fresh as she composed herself.


    "When all the forces invaded, war erupted, changing England forever as every side clashed on a single battlefield. I remember looking up at the sky that day, standing beside my half-brother, Arthur." Morgana said, her gaze drifting upward as if lost in that memory, remembering the moment when she fought side by side with Arthur.


    "It-"


    Morgana''s Narration:


    It wasn''t just two sides fighting, it was utter chaos, an eight-sided war where everyone fought for their own claim to victory.


    But as the minutes bled into hours, and the hours stretched into days, only two figures truly stood out amidst the bloodshed was the Nether God known as Necromon and the supposed king, Arthur Pendragon.


    The rest of us, Merlyn, the knights, myself, we were drowning in battle, fending off endless armies.


    And yet, had I known, had I truly understood, I would have stopped him.


    That day, Arthur was like a shining star.


    You couldn''t look away from him; even if you wanted to, something about him held you spellbound.


    Even as I fought, my eyes would catch glimpses of him, drawn to his presence like a magnetic pull.


    Every movement, every gesture, seemed to command attention, and for a fleeting moment, I''d forget everything else, consumed by his aura.


    But stars that shine the brightest, often burn the fastest.


    And Arthur burned himself down to his very last drop, pushing Necromon back into the void, sealing him away, only for Mordred to drive a blade into his back.


    No one ever tells you how stars die, only that they stop shining.


    But that day, the brightest star in Camelot was snuffed out and with it, everything fell apart.


    I think that''s when Merlyn finally snapped, when he became the man he is today as Arthur had always been his weakness.


    He could never refuse him, never deny him and when Arthur died before all our eyes, before his eyes, nothing could stop him.


    Nothing could stop his wrath.


    And I-.....I underestimated his wrath.


    I was foolish enough to believe I could take control without any proper preparations, that I could claim power amidst the chaos.


    I started a civil war within the city, and Sir Percival tried to stop me, until Mordred killed him.


    But I thought, if I could just get my hands on the Ebony Blade, I could stand against Merlyn.


    Of course, like every time before, I was wrong.


    The first thing he did when he entered that throne room was rip Mordred to pieces.


    I-...I couldn''t even stop him.


    I remember how desperately I tried to hold him back, but he tore through my spells with ease, unraveling them into nothing.


    Mordred twisted before my eyes, morphing into a grotesque monster as I stood powerless.


    Even as Arthur took his dying breath from Mordred''s hands, he forgave him.


    But Merlyn tortured him into an existence that shattered his mind.


    I couldn''t stop him, I couldn''t stop his wrath, I couldn''t stop his power, I couldn''t stop not when he laid waste to Gorre, I couldn''t stop when he set the innocent aflame.


    I failed Arthur.


    I failed everyone.


    Over and over, I watched as his cruelty grew, his brutality more feral, until there was no one left to challenge him.


    And in the end, he silenced every last obstacle in his way, with no mercy, no hesitation.


    I think, deep down, I was both jealous and disgusted by the truth, the real reason I had been allowed to survive, time and time again.


    It wasn''t because I could, it was because they let me, that Arthur let me.


    But now, with him gone, Merlyn had taken control.


    First, he created the barrier, a master spell held in place by the Sorcerer Supreme, one that strengthened the boundaries between Earth and other dimensions, preventing any outside force from invading again.


    Then, he hunted down every single person who had wronged Arthur and turned them into monsters.


    "And finally, he locked me away in this castle and burned them all. And made me listen through seven days and seven nights." Morgana finished, her drunken confession leaving her all but shattered under the flow of her own truth.


    "Aye, you don''t have to talk about it if it''s too much to swallow." Ricky said, suddenly stopping her from continuing as he watched as Morgana immediately downed her glass of wine.


    "I apologize for-"


    "Nah, don''t do that," Ricky said, suddenly stopping her, waving his hand as she looked up at him.


    "Do what?" Morgana asked, staring back up at Ricky swirling the bottle of hell wine in his grasp.


    "Do the thing where you apologize for literally doing nothing." Ricky revealed, knowing this back and forth all too well.


    "But I got carried away and-"


    "And my pops gets carried away when talking about the 1919 Chicago White Sox, but it''s like I always tell him, ''It''s in the past,''" Ricky said, rolling his eyes at the memories of Lucky freaking out whenever he brought it up.


    "Is it now?" Morgana said, laughing and feeling a little better as Ricky shook his head.


    "Of course not, I still hear BS about how Shoeless Joe would have wiped the league with his cum sock if he still played today." Ricky scoffed, knowing that the old man will literally never let it go.


    "Then why do you say it''s in the past?" Morgana asked, wondering why he would claim something was over when it never truly is.


    "Because sh*t like that doesn''t go away, it sticks with you." Ricky said, his gaze meeting Morgana''s as she slowly lowered her eyes.


    "It''s just that it doesn''t mean he won''t move on if I keep saying it." Ricky revealed, knowing it might be pointless but that didn''t he''d ever stop.


    "What?"


    "Well, one day my pops has gotta let it go, and although I wanna say he''s a lost cause, I just can''t give up on him like that." Ricky said, shrugging since it sounded stupid but if someone had to be the voice of reason, then he could probably be that if he just kept saying it.


    "Really?"


    "Yeah, the guy still rants about it whenever he gets drunk on whiskey. One of these days, he''s either gonna let it go, the world''s gonna run out of whiskey, or I''ll just sit here by the side constantly assuring him that it''s in the past." Ricky shrugged, taking a sip of the hell wine as Morgana looked back at her wine.


    "Does it bother you, having to constantly assure him?" Morgana asked, watching Ricky as he was about to take a sip, but instead, he laughed.


    "Nah, I already know he''s over it." Ricky chuckled, knowing full well his pops had already moved on. It surprised Morgana, who hadn''t expected that answer.


    "If it''s over and you know it, he knows it, then why-"


    "Cause he''s torturing himself, making sure to remind himself to never bet on the White Sox again." Ricky said, as if it were the easiest thing in the world, the wine swirling down his throat.


    "Ah~" Ricky let out a refreshed sigh, his words leaving Morgana speechless as she suddenly turned to him.


    "I don''t know, I think he knows it''s over, but he just reminds himself because he knows that if he lets go, then he has to let go of the ten grand he lost all those years ago." Ricky rubbed his nose, swirling the last drop of the hell wine in his glass before tossing the remainder back.


    He reached for the last bottle, already feeling the buzz settling in, knowing he was about to get completely drunk off his ass in a couple moments.


    "Y''know, now that I think about it, he''s a real money grubber." Ricky muttered, the buzz of the wine settling in as he shrugged his shoulders, feeling the weight of the alcohol begin to take over.


    "Has anyone ever told you that you have such an interesting way with words?" Morgana asked, her smile thoughtful as she regarded him, her gaze lingering for a moment longer than usual.


    "Depends on if it''s in a good or bad way," Ricky said, a half-smirk tugging at his lips as his words caused Morgana to laugh, the sound light and genuine as she tilted her head, eyes glimmering with amusement.


    "A good way Ricky, a really good way."


    4 hours later after the author also got drunk to really add authenticity,


    "And then, I smashed his face into the table!" Ricky laughed, drunk off his ass with Morgana not sitting across from him, but to the side.


    "Hahahahahaha!" Morgana''s regal demeanor completely wasted away with the hell wine, her childish side sprouting as she actually laughed at that piss poor joke of Ricky''s.


    When she leaned down to hold her stomach, Ricky''s five hell wine bottle deep eyes saw two vertical scars tracing down her back, rubbing his eyes as if he was seeing double only to confirm there were really two.


    "What''s-"


    BURP


    "What''s that?" Ricky slurred, poking at her back as Morgana jerked her head up.


    "What''s what?" Morgana also slurred, reaching behind her back to get it before her finger tips grazed her scar.


    HICCUP


    "Oh, that." Morgana hiccuped, smacking her lips together as if to prevent them from getting dry.


    "That wicked bastard ripped off my wings," Morgana drunkenly said, reaching for her wine glass as she had already gone through five bottles of hell wine, while Ricky had downed four of his own.


    It was safe to say Ricky was completely smashed, but Morgana was only slightly tipsy but still, the fact that she was letting her guard down like this, talking so openly, said a lot.


    "No way~" Ricky said, baffled beyond belief but Morgana immediately assumed wrong.


    "You had wings?" Ricky said, laughing as if she were joking only to see her completely serious.


    "Wait, you have wings-"


    HICCUP


    "Wait, which wings are you referring to? My fairy wings or the chicken wings you Americans have?" Morgana asked, watching Ricky, who was about to respond, only to freeze with his hand on his forehead.


    "Oh my god, I can''t remember," Ricky muttered, his words slurring as the alcohol took its toll.


    9 minutes later and four beers deep,


    "No, NO!" Ricky laughed, standing up while shaking his head at Morgana''s absurd statement.


    "Why would I make up such an absurd statement-"


    "Because that''s crazy, no one, NO ONE, says barbecue wings are better than lemon pepper wings. Nobody-"


    "I say that-"


    "Well, you''re wrong." Ricky scoffed, wobbling to the side as Morgana rose to her feet, meeting him with an almost amused glare.


    "I have never been wrong about anything in my life-"


    "Until now, you''re wrong." Ricky shook his head, unable to concede on this simple fact as Morgana scoffed at this outlandish statement.


    "Such a childish way of-YOUR WRONG!" Morgana was about to take the high ground until her childish side burst forward, yelling at Ricky, who laughed uncontrollably at her fiery retaliation.


    "I ain''t wrong-"


    "YES YOU ARE, BARBECUE WINGS ARE BETTER BECAUSE THE RICH SMOKY FLAVOR MIXED WITH THE SWEET SAVORY BARBECUE FLAVOR IS WAY BETTER THAN STUPID SPICES SLATHERED ON A CHICKEN WING!" Morgana stomped on the ground, her face flushed with passion, clearly unwilling to concede. Ricky''s jaw dropped in disbelief.


    "You did not, YOU DID NOT JUST F*CKING SAY THAT LEMON PEPPER WINGS ARE SIMPLY SPICES SLATHERED ON A WING!" Ricky yelled, his eyes wide with disbelief as he staggered back, hands thrown up in the air in dramatic shock.


    "HOW IS IT STUPID TO COAT CHICKEN WINGS WITH A MIXTURE OF OLIVE OIL, LEMON ZEST, SALT, AND BLACK PEPPER, THEN FRY THEM UNTIL THEY''RE COOKED THROUGH AND CRISPY!" Ricky yelled, his passion for lemon pepper wings clearly showing as he gestured wildly, catching Morgana completely off guard.


    "Wha-" Morgana could barely respond as Ricky slowly stepped forward, his intense gaze sizing her up, looking down at her.


    "Chicken wings, separated into drums and flats," Ricky began, his voice smooth, almost hypnotic.


    "Two tablespoons of olive oil and lemon pepper, the perfect combination of lemon zest, salt, and black pepper, with optional seasonings: a teaspoon of salt, one teaspoon chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper." Ricky''s words rolled off his tongue sensually, each syllable hanging in the air, making it feel as though the room itself had become charged, the temperature rising between them.


    Morgana was left speechless, caught off guard by the intensity of the moment.


    It was strange, almost surreal, but the liquid courage had somehow propelled them into an unexpected connection, one bound by an unlikely love for chicken wings.


    Neither of them expected this, this weird, almost absurd bond over something so simple.


    And yet, as they exchanged playful banter about sauces and seasonings, the air between them thickened with a strange tension.


    The intensity in their voices, the shared enthusiasm, it wasn''t just about food anymore.


    They were getting caught up in something much more charged, something more intimate.


    Both of them were slowly realizing, with a mix of surprise and something else, that this odd connection had sparked a heat neither had anticipated.


    "You think that''s good enough, huh?" Morgana asked, grabbing his collar and yanking him closer to her face as he laughed right before her eyes.


    "I f*cking know it is-"


    Ricky didn''t even have a chance to finish his sentence before Morgana suddenly pressed her lips onto his.


    The kiss was intense, unexpected, and charged with the strange energy that had been building up between them.


    It was as if all the playful banter, the tension, and the shared laughs had culminated into this one impulsive, heated moment.


    For a split second, Ricky was caught off guard, but then he kissed her back, the urgency and electricity between them escalating as everything around them faded.


    The heat of the moment, the wine, and the shared madness over something as simple as wings had brought them to this unexpected crossing of lines.


    The world outside of their small bubble ceased to exist, and all that mattered was the tangled mess of desire and emotions that had suddenly ignited between them.


    Their hands slowly traced each other''s backs, a frenzied, tangled dance as they fiercely gripped one another, their bodies pressed together in the heat of the moment.


    Breaths came ragged and shallow against each other''s tongues that clashed fiercely, each of them determined to hold their ground, not letting the other take control.


    The intensity of their struggle spiraled out of control, a whirlwind of passion that seemingly sucked everything around them into their self-made disaster of an entanglement.


    CRASH


    BAM


    Their bodies collided with tables, bookshelves, the floor littered with shattered vases and debris and yet, through the wreckage, neither one would yield.


    Each refused to break, their will locked in a brutal tug-of-war, unwilling to surrender to the other.


    "Do you even know who I am?" Morgana broke the kiss, her voice low and seductive as she whispered into his ear.


    Her fingers threaded through his slicked-back hair, pulling his head back as a soft to allow her more control as a teasing chuckle escaped his lips while looking up toward the ceiling.


    "I''m-MEEEEEEP!" Morgana first started out her sensual whisper only to squeal.


    Her words cut short as Ricky, in one swift motion, lifted her by the thighs, causing her to sound like some sort of muppet before she was thrown onto the bed.


    "Did-...did you just say ''Meep''?" Ricky laughed, looking upon the drunken and blushing Morgana who hid it under her regal form.


    "What of it-"


    HICCUP


    "What of it? Your brutish strength surprised me," Morgana hiccuped, her gaze unfocused as she looked up at Ricky, her eyes hazy and half-lidded from the alcohol.


    HICCUP


    "Now, pull down your pants and let me see if you''re full of them~" Morgana teased, her laughter light but laced with something darker as she dragged her bare foot along the bulge in his pants.


    "Oh, sh*''s gonna be full alright." Ricky drunkenly shot back, a smirk tugging at his lips as his fingers worked on his belt.


    His eyes never left Morgana, the tension between them thick as he slowly unzipped his pants.


    "If anything-" Morgana was about to drunkenly retort to his smirk, her voice slurring slightly, but her words faltered as the sudden sight of his cock flopping out of his pants.


    Her eyes widened for a moment, the fog of alcohol clearing just enough for her to catch her breath.


    However, before she could even attempt to compose herself, Ricky''s hand brushed against her skin, sending a shiver through her. His smile widened, a knowing glint in his eyes.


    ''Wet to the touch-'' Ricky muttered, activating his skill, but before he could even finish, Morgana''s body flushed, her breath catching in her throat at her insides lubricating just at his mere touch.


    "Mmmmmmh~" Morgana bit her lip, trying to fight the urge to give in, determined not to let Ricky hear the soft moan that threatened to escape her.


    Trembling, her body quaked ever so slightly as the effects of his skill reverberated through her, a soft shiver running down her spine as his hand continued to slide down her leg.


    Even as her body betrayed her, succumbing to his touch, her eyes remained sharp, deadly and unwavering.


    She refused to bend, her gaze fixed with an unspoken challenge, as she clenched her teeth, fighting back the moans that threatened to escape.


    She bit down fiercely, unwilling to give him the satisfaction, though the strain was evident in her jaw.


    "Your body is even better than my memory of it," Ricky said, slowly hovering over her as she made fierce eye contact with him, all while he leisurely started playing with her body, his hand slowly trekking up her leg, taking his sweet time.


    "Man, I just remember how torturous it was to dream of you every f*cking night and all I could ever do was look." Ricky muttered in frustration, his wine riddled breath steaming against her skin as he leaned down.


    "But now, all I''m gonna do is touch." Ricky finished, biting her earlobe as his hand slid up, slowly making its way to her most prized possession.


    His fingers gently traced the thin material covering her folds, teasing the delicate fabric as he began to move, savoring every inch.


    His thumb pressed down, finding the sensitive spot most men could only dream of discovering, the clit.


    His pointer and index fingers slowly traced the delicate folds, each movement calculated, while his middle finger caressed the covered seam, gently exploring the crevice that promised untold pleasure.


    "Y-You heathen~" Morgana hissed, her eyes rolling back to the bed frame as she tried to punch him.


    Before she could, his hand shot out, gripping her tiny wrists and pinning them above her head as her hair cascaded behind her, flowing upward like a red carpet.


    "I know, I''m the worst~" Ricky laughed, reveling in the moment, feeling a sense of satisfaction no one else could understand as he had wanted to know this body more than anyone.


    Though he had experienced it once before, puberty had been hell the second time since hge would literally get hard just from staring at a sign for too long.


    It only got worse when his dreams of Morgana in that throne room became a perfect scenario to vent his pent-up frustrations.


    But the reality was far crueler: he could never touch her.


    It was torture, pure and unrelenting torture but now, it was different.


    It was as though fate had gifted him this moment, wrapped in a neat bow, and he wasn''t going to rip it open.


    No, he was going to undo every layer, savoring the gift before truly receiving it.


    His breath lowered, ghosting across her skin, leaving a trail of heat as it caressed her most sensitive areas.


    His hand followed, gently tracing the curve of her body before moving to her most intimate place, each touch purposeful and slow, building the tension between them.


    He wanted to stir the pot, to push the boundaries, to see just how far he could go before everything boiled over.


    Ricky''s fingers slowly seeped into her crease hidden between her folds all while his breath trailing down toward her chest.


    At the same time, he used his teeth to slowly tug at the delicate tassels holding her breasts beneath the thin fabric, each knot loosening with a deliberate pull.


    Morgana watched, her breath coming in shallow, almost desperate gasps, unable to pry her gaze away from his eyes that locked onto hers.


    Pulling his head upward, the tassel clenched between his teeth, the final binding of her corset-like dress loosened.


    With a soft, deliberate release, her full, round breasts burst free.


    No longer constrained, they expanded, becoming the mountains they truly were, swaying outward with a gentle droop beneath their weight.


    "If it''s too much, you can always tell me to stop," Ricky said, his voice low, using her pride against her as the hesitation in her mind disappeared, replaced by the clear sting of her weakness.


    "Do-mmmmmmh~" Morgana tried to respond, but the words faltered as Ricky slid his middle finger deeper into her tight, wet crease before she eventually opened her green eyes, locking gaze with him.


    "Do your worst~"


    It felt almost like a declaration of war, as Ricky tore off her tight, black dress, revealing the stunning body he had long ogled in his mind but what stood before him was beyond anything he could imagine.


    Smooth, that was the first word that came to mind, as not a single trace of hair marred her flawless, fair skin.


    For all the wickedness that surrounded Morgana, her body held a vibrant, lifelike hue and instead of pale white, her skin carried a soft pinkish glow, making her seem ripe for the picking.


    Her breasts, as large as the mountains separating Gorre from Camelot, stood proudly, their two pink peaks pointing directly into the sky.


    Ricky''s gaze then shifted downward, focusing on the crown jewel below.


    Contrary to her ample, busty form, what lay at her waist were two small lips, pressed together so tightly it resembled the delicate curve of a peach.


    Everything that befitted a queen was embodied within Morgana''s form, a beauty so intoxicating it would drive any man mad, Ricky included.


    "Wait~" Morgana tried to command, but the words escaped her in a soft, breathy murmur as she watched Ricky trail kisses down her beautiful skin, each one leading to her soaking wet core.


    "Wait-Mmmmmmmmmmh~" Morgana tried to command, but her eyes widened, her breath hitched, and her moan was stifled as she bit down on her lips.


    Her hands reached out instinctively, grabbing at the disturbance of Ricky''s tongue, which had slid between her pressed lips, seeking to taste the divine.


    Suddenly, Morgana''s hands gripped his oily black hair, pulling it tightly as her body shuddered, feeling his tongue explore the depths of her wet, eager cave.


    Everything buzzed in Ricky''s ears, the dull ringing of his drunkenness clouding his senses.


    Sloppy, closing his eyes, the world fading away as he surrendered to the intoxicating taste of Morgana.


    Each brush of her slick, warm folds, his numbed tongue tasting the faint hint of metal on his palate, adding a uniqueness to the flavor.


    He felt every subtle shift of her body, his tongue moving with her, as though he were riding a wave instead of crashing into it.


    It pulled him deeper into the moment as he wasn''t thinking anymore, only doing, completely consumed by the sensation of her, as if everything else had ceased to exist.


    It was as if Ricky were painting on a rocking boat, his brush swaying with the rhythm of the movement, tracing each curve and edge with the momentum he had gained.


    "Stop doing that, stop~" Morgana almost whined, her queenly demeanor slowly chipping away as his tongue chiseled away at her walls.


    "Your-ha-.....haaaa~" Morgana tried to stifle her words, to quiet his efforts, but they fell on deaf ears as her moans slipped out.


    Morgana was no stranger to pleasure; her fingers had often done the same work that Ricky''s tongue now carried out.


    She had traced her walls, indulged in her own desires, but it was different when someone else took control.


    Even if every painting seemed the same, the way it was created would always be different.


    And every work of art leaves someone breathless the first time they gaze upon it.


    "Ah~" Morgana finally let out a full moan, the sound escaping her despite all her efforts to hold it back.


    It felt involuntary, instinctive, something even a queen couldn''t control, a raw, natural impulse.


    Her naked body writhed under the caress of Ricky''s tongue, the slimy pleasure radiating from every touch.


    His fingers dug into her thighs as they squeezed around his head, while Morgana gripped his hair tightly.


    "God, oh god~" Morgana moaned drunkenly, looking down at the embarrassing action unfolding before her, before slamming her head against the bed in helpless surrender.


    It was utterly frustrating for Morgana, the way it felt so good to be under Ricky''s touch, his hold, and as the feeling blossomed within her, the pleasure only intensified.


    Ricky''s tongue wasn''t aggressive, but powerful in its pursuit, swishing and swaying in rhythm with Morgana''s body as the sound of her reluctant moans was like applause, echoing in the air.


    "Ha-a-"


    "A-A-A-A-"


    "Mmmmmmmh-"


    "Ah~"


    Morgana was so indecisive about how to express her pleasure, interrupting her own moans as if erasing them before redrawing and rephrasing her reactions in a cycle of overwhelming sensation.


    A build-up began to form, and Morgana knew what it entailed but once it reached a certain point, she thought her body would explode, only to feel him delve deeper, as if controlling her very being, pushing her beyond her limits.


    The pent-up sensation surged, suffocating her in a sense of stillness that made her almost whimper.


    "Ha-AHH~" Morgana''s whimper escaped first, soft and cute, before a towering moan burst forth, accompanied by the trembling of her body.


    Her body spasmed with the overwhelming surge of pleasure, erupting from deep within her core and flooding her senses with its tantalizing effects, before washing over its source, Ricky.


    Huff


    Huff


    Huff


    Morgana felt almost numb in the moment, her breath escaping in shallow gasps from her black-painted lips, as every part of her body tingled, except the one where Ricky''s tongue had so thoroughly explored.


    Sweat began to bead on her smooth, beautiful skin, and just as it felt like she was reaching her peak, Ricky''s figure slowly rose into her view, blocking her view of the ceiling.


    Licking his lips, Ricky swept his disheveled hair back, the root cause of his satisfaction standing before him at the woman he was now staring down at


    He grabbed her legs, guiding them to bend in response to his desire, pulling her closer as her back slid against the silk sheets.


    Only halting when her lips, already wet and drooling out small thin streams of her nectar, pressed against his already swollen, veiny cock.


    Her lips, wet with anticipation, pressed against the tip of his erect, veiny cock.


    Morgana lowered her hazy gaze to him, her eyes locked on the obscene sight that no queen should witness.


    Instantly, she turned away, her face flushed a maddening red as Ricky''s drunken eyes lingering on not her expression, but her folds.


    Curious, he gently tugged at one of her folds, pulling it to the side as if it were a curtain with his thumb to reveal the perfect pink hue that hinted at the depth of her desire.


    Literally needing no other motivation, he immediately aligned himself with gates, saying a quick prayer before entering this holy site.


    It was then that Ricky pushed forward slowly, letting out a soft laugh as he drew in a deep breath, his head tilting back.


    "Fucking hell~" Ricky groaned, feeling the tightness embrace the tip of his cock, inching deeper with a slow, deliberate push.


    It felt as though her insides were collapsing around his cock, enveloping him in an intense, warm sensation, soft yet heavy, pulling him deeper into the dizzying haze of pleasure.


    "AHHHHH~" Morgana cried out, her hands reaching back, fingers clawing into the sheets like sharpened fangs sinking into flesh.


    The soft, gushing sounds of her insides parting to make way for his cock filled the air, a wet, rhythmic squelch that slithered into their ears like thick, warm slop being stirred in slow motion.


    Then, as if their bodies were perfectly aligned, the last inch of his cock slid into her, and everything seemed to merge as their bodies reacted to one another, instinctively.


    As if clicking into place.


    "HA~"


    "Woah~"


    Slowly, their breaths began to sync, each inhale and exhale adding to the growing tension between them.


    They sat there in stunned silence, both trying to process how perfectly they fit together, as if their bodies were always meant to align this way.


    Ricky felt an irresistible pull, almost compelled to lose himself in the depths of the sensation, surrendering to Morgana as she opened her longing eyes, watching him descend toward her while hoping he would surround her in a feeling of security.


    Then, as if two atoms had collided, they erupted into a fiery passion the moment their lips met.


    It was different this time, their drunken haze wasn''t set on merely battling one another but now delving into this numb feeling as if trying to understand it.


    Their naked bodies writhed against each other, moving with a rhythm all their own as Ricky''s hands slid down, guiding her legs to wrap around his waist, while her hands traveled to his back, her nails digging into his flesh, pulling him closer, urging him deeper.


    Then, as if their lips were pulled away by an unseen force, their eyes slowly opened, meeting each other''s gaze.


    For a brief moment, they stared, locked in silent understanding, before continuing.


    But this time, instead of merely locking lips, their bodies surged into motion as Ricky''s hips slowly pulled back, only to thrust forward again, their lips colliding once more in a round of fiery passion.


    The faint echoes of moans escaped with each movement, their bodies pressing together, flesh against flesh, skin on skin.


    Nothing could stop the rhythm they''d fallen into, each movement pushing them closer, binding them in their growing passion.


    It was as if fate itself couldn''t pull them apart, their bodies colliding and rising together in a slow, undeniable rhythm.


    His hips slowly pulled back, her tight folds clenching as if to hold him in, slick with her desire.


    The sensation of her longing engulfed him, making his cock slick as he propelled himself back inside.


    They locked into place once more, both of them gasping as they drove deeper, bodies instinctively connecting with each thrust, their breaths hitching in unison.


    The bed sheets contorted beneath their movements, caught in the rhythm of their dance, swirling through the room filled with the sounds of pleasure.


    They moved together, repeating the same motions, each one building on the last, until it culminated in something intense and unforgettable.


    The same process repeated, pulling away from her clutches as a slow drip of moisture slipped from her folds, the wetness releasing him before he slowly pushed back inside.


    It was boring, completely the same with no change in their movements yet their hearts pounded in their chests with every iteration.


    That same steady routine sent waves of electricity through their bodies, leaving them defenseless against each other, sinking deeper and deeper into the abyss of overwhelming pleasure.


    It was as if they couldn''t exist without one another, as if Ricky needed this connection with her, to be right next to her.


    His hand slowly traced along her exposed body, his hips moving with emphasis, each thrust deepening the bond between them.


    His cock stirred her insides, creating a concoction of pleasure that had ensnared them both, pulling them deeper into each other.


    Then, his hand found hers, gently prying it from the flesh of his back and pinning it down against the bed.


    He wrapped his fingers around hers, anchoring her to the mattress beneath them as he drove his hips forward, his cock plunging deeper into her.


    She seemingly squeezed back, holding him tightly, pulling him further into the depths of their connection.


    "Why~" Morgana moaned, her eyes slowly opening, revealing a gaze filled with loneliness, a deep, aching void that Ricky was slowly filling with his presence.


    "Why you?" Morgana asked, her voice trembling as she looked up at him, her body responding to his movements, the question spilling from her lips in a haze of intoxication.


    "Does it matter?" Ricky murmured, pressing his forehead against Morgana''s.


    No one in the world could have guessed how perfectly they fit together, how their bodies, their very beings, locked into place.


    And maybe he was right, maybe it didn''t need some deeper meaning, and maybe some things worked out the way it was supposed to from the very start.


    "No~" Morgana almost laughed, her eyes watering at how stupidly simple he always made things out to be, but for some reason, her heart beat like a drum to this side of him.


    "It doesn''t matter." Morgana cupped his cheek, her touch soft yet certain as she gazed at him as Ricky bit her lower lip before capturing her mouth in another kiss.


    This time, it was different.


    His hips still melted into hers, their flesh still ground together in a fevered rhythm, but something had shifted and it was that single moment of acceptance.


    For once, Morgana''s walls crumbled, yielding to the relentless force of Ricky''s pace and this time, she didn''t fight it.


    Their grips tightened around one another, their bodies shifting in a sloppier yet more urgent pace.


    Both of them quickened their movements, neither willing nor able to stop, as if their collision was inevitable.


    Then it was as if his rhythm melted as the heat between them became molten as his thrusts grew wild, his cock plunging in and out of Morgana''s drenched heat, each withdrawal leaving her juices clinging to his shaft before he drove himself back in with a wet, obscene squelch.


    Their bodies no longer just ground together; they slammed, slapped, and smeared against one another, their sweat mixing as Morgana''s walls clenched around him, desperate and greedy, milking every inch he gave her.


    The room filled with the mess of their union, ragged breaths, needy moans, and the wet, sloppy symphony of flesh meeting flesh in untamed, reckless abandon.


    Slap


    Slap


    Slap


    His hips crashed against her waist, each thrust plunging his cock deeper into mushy insides that clenched deeply as if it were involuntary.


    Their bodies trembled, locked in a desperate, fevered pace, reaching their fevered pitch yet neither of them spoke, no words could capture the raw, unrelenting need driving them closer, tighter, as if they could melt into one.


    However, all it took was one action to fully encapsulate the perfect culmination of what their bodies had been trying to say, trying to scream out with their fevered movements, their clashing hips, and the sheer, unrelenting intensity of their union.


    Bam


    Their bodies collided with a violent, desperate crash, the heat of Ricky''s skin burning through the thin barrier between them.


    The veins in his neck bulged, straining under the pressure as he gripped Morgana harder, their breath coming in ragged gasps within their own hot breathes that swirled around each other in their locked hold of their lips.


    Morgana''s body trembled uncontrollably, muscles tightening as the overwhelming force of their union sent shockwaves of pleasure spiraling through them.


    They both lost themselves, teetering on the edge of madness as their release came crashing down in a wild, frenzied explosion, each of them falling apart in the swell of burning ecstasy.


    His cock throbbed, balls tightening as a fierce surge of cum erupted, flooding deep inside her.


    The sensation was a brutal release, a wave of heat that swirled through her, flooding her senses in his white, thick cum.


    Morgana''s body trembled violently, her nerve endings being forced to squeeze out every drop of a reaction as she was overwhelmed by the tidal wave of pleasure that burst through her.


    Her pussy clenched, each contraction a deep, relentless pulse, pulling every ounce of pleasure from the depths of her climax as she melted into him, unable to escape the consuming force.


    It felt as though her pussy eagerly swallowed every pulse of his cum, his throbbing tip releasing a final, intense sputter as she took it all, her body trembling with satisfaction as she absorbed every drop into her womb that sprouted at his fertilization.


    "What the fuck was that?" Ricky gasped, his breaths sharp and uneven as he finally broke away from her lips, collapsing his head into the hollow of her neck, feeling her stil trembling from the force of it all.


    "I-I don''t know." Morgana stammered, her voice breathless, unable to form a coherent thought as her wide eyes stared up, lost in the moment.


    Their hands remained gently locked, fingers clutching each other as if they were hanging on for dear life.


    Slowly, they turned their gazes back to one another, the unspoken connection lingering in the air.


    Ricky''s lips brushed against her neck, tender but insistent, sending shivers down her spine as his kisses trailed along her skin.


    "Ha~" Morgana moaned, her hand slowly tracing up his back and gripping down onto the back of his head.


    Lost in a haze, Ricky selfishly focused on his own desire, his hand sliding over her smooth skin, finally grabbing and squeezing the soft, yielding flesh of her right breast, the pressure sending waves of heat through both of them.


    Honestly, Ricky was practically simmering in the afterglow, his mind drifting as he let the warmth of his release envelop him, tuning everything else out.


    But as he began to settle into the comfort of that haze, his body stirred again, instinctively drawing Morgana''s with him, he would suddenly pull back.


    It was as if Ricky was unknowingly pushing Morgana toward the edge, each subtle movement stirring her deeper, only to pull back at the last moment, his focus shifting elsewhere, leaving her teetering between anticipation and the ache for more.


    That childish side of hers, which had been dissuaded from the simmering heat of her climax, began to rise up, poking at her subconscious, a subtle yet insistent urge to push past it.


    "Are you going to-....you know~" Morgana whispered in Ricky''s ear, her voice laced with frustration, the tension in her body palpable.


    Unlike Ricky, who was teetering on the edge of his drunken stupor and fatigue, her words seemed to cut through his haze.


    His ear twitched in response, a subtle sign that her impatience hadn''t gone unnoticed as his smile raised with it.


    "What was that?" Ricky asked, trying to keep his tone steady, but the teasing edge slipped through despite his best efforts.


    "Are you-.....going to continue?" Morgana asked, her irritation flickering in her eyes, but it quickly vanished as Ricky''s charming gaze locked onto hers.


    It was as if the alcohol had completely stripped Morgana of her resistance, making her incredibly susceptible to his every move.


    The first shift in their connection left her almost pliable, like putty in his hands, as the force of their bodies intertwined.


    "Continue what?" Ricky laughed, his face settling between her breasts, a satisfied grin on his lips as if content with how things were unfolding.


    But Morgana''s face continued to flush, her lips painted in black trying to part as she breathed out a quiet sigh, only to press them together once again.


    She wanted to feel it, crave that fulfilling sensation once more, the pull of it deep inside her.


    "Continue making love to me~," Morgana whispered, her voice trembling with a mix of frustration and yearning, her body pressing closer to his, silently pleading for more, for that connection to deepen.


    If Ricky had been soft, those words whispered in his ear reignited something primal within him, causing him to immediately pull her body back against his.


    Caught off guard, a rush of adrenaline surged through Morgana as her eyes widened, her body suddenly thrust into an upright position.


    She found herself straddling Ricky, impaled on him, and he held her firmly, like a flag on display.


    His face buried between the mounds of her breasts as if unwilling to let go and compromising like this.


    "You''re like a baby~" Morgana slurred with a playful chuckle, her gaze softening as she looked down at his face buried against her chest.


    But just as she was about to wrap both arms around his neck, her hand paused mid-air, a sudden memory flickering through her mind.


    How it had felt, Ricky''s hand clasped so deeply in hers, that shared connection from the very beginning.


    As she gazed at their entwined hands, an involuntary smile tugged at her lips.


    In that quiet moment, she rested her head on top of Ricky''s, her cheek pressing against his hair.


    With a soft kiss, she stroked the back of his head, her free hand caressing him gently as a sense of tenderness washed over her.


    Closing her eyes, Morgana''s breath hitched as she slowly lifted her hips, a soft twitch of her lips betraying the sensation.


    But she didn''t hesitate for long, gently easing herself back down onto him, the movement slow and deliberate as the connection between them deepened.


    "Ha~" Morgana let out a deep breath, hearing her slick folds envelop his cock with a slimy pulse ringing throughout her ears.


    The hellwine had fully soaked into Ricky''s system by now, its effects nearly incapacitating him.


    His body felt heavy, drunk on the intoxicating combination of alcohol and Morgana''s touch.


    Every movement was sluggish, his mind hazy as he clung to her, the weight of his own body a distant memory.


    Morgana''s body slid relentlessly against him, slow at first, but then growing more erratic as she moved up and down.


    His cock pulsed, wet and throbbing, trapped between her slippery motions, and he could hardly keep himself upright.


    His hands gripped her desperately, the alcohol spinning his thoughts into a blur.


    Every sensation felt like it was crashing into him all at once, the only thing grounding him being the steady rise and fall of Morgana''s body.


    She mounted him slowly, her ass pressing upwards, her two cheeks giving a faint jiggle before she brought it downwards in a heavy motion.


    Clap


    Squelch


    Slamming herself down onto him with a wet, slippery friction that numbed his ears.


    Every drop of their skin meeting sent a shock of pleasure through him, the sensation all-consuming.


    "AH~"


    And everytime, as if it were on queue, Morgana would seep out a sultry moan from her black painted lips.


    They held each other so tight, their bodies locked in an almost desperate embrace, humping together with a frantic, clumsy rhythm as they tried to figure out the perfect combination of movements.


    Every slam of her hips sent shockwaves of pleasure through her body, rippling out pleasure through her insides that trembled around his cock that twitched with each hard, slick movement.


    The wet, sloshing sounds filled the room, drowning out everything but the rush of sensation coursing through them both.


    It was as if they were both drowning in the overwhelming heat of their naked bodies, the world shrinking to nothing but the space between them.


    Every touch, every brush of skin felt magnified, as if their bodies were the only things that mattered.


    The weight of their desperate movements, the slick glide of their connection, consumed them both entirely, until nothing else existed outside of their touch.


    Her ass bobbed atop his cock, over and over again, each motion steady but almost dull, lacking in subtlety.


    Yet, with every repeated motion, jolts of pleasure surged through both of them, each shift of her body sending waves of heat crashing into his senses.


    They adjusted their stances, finding their place within one another until they slowly morphed into a perfect sync as they neared the edge of their own release.


    The sounds of their flesh meeting, wet, desperate, and it all blended into a sensual symphony of their bodies slapping, grinding, and morphing into one another.


    "You can''t ever leave me~" Morgana whispered softly into his ear, the words slipping past Ricky''s drunken haze without him fully registering.


    Her possessive green eyes glinted with a dark intensity, catching the reflection of his lost expression.


    "Never, you can never escape me~" she murmured again, her voice sweet but edged with a dangerous desperation.


    Her childish side, unable to bear the thought of sharing him with anyone, clung to him fiercely.


    She wanted him close, wrapped up in her arms, and she vowed silently that he would be hers forever, no one else''s.


    "I won''t ever let you go, never~" Morgana reiterated, her voice dripping with a possessiveness that echoed deep within her chest.


    She vowed in her heart to never let this man escape her clutches, her grip on him tightening with every passing second.


    Her words seemed to carve themselves into his subconscious, repeating over and over in time with the movement of her hips, as if she was branding him, marking him as hers.


    With every slow, deliberate thrust, she whispered her vow again, her breath hot and urgent against his ear, her body moving like an unrelenting force that would never let him slip away.


    No one could ever truly understand the depth of Morgana''s loneliness, the ache that had gnawed at her for centuries. If only she had adjusted properly to her freedom, perhaps things could have been different.


    But the reason her difficulty was medium was simple: she hadn''t touched another man in ages.


    When she finally did, it was Ricky, and from that moment, she became ensnared, caught in his grip as much as he was in hers.


    Yet, Morgana wasn''t the type to simply indulge in fleeting pleasure.


    No, she would drag this into the abyss, if necessary, ensuring no one else could ever claim what was hers.


    She''d bind him to her with every ounce of her being, pulling him deeper into her world, until they were both lost in it, together, and forever.


    "Our children will rule the world~"


    CLAP


    Morgana slammed her hips down, impaling herself on his throbbing cock, her womb flooded with a scorching heat that made her body tremble with overwhelming pleasure.


    The intensity of the position snapped her fully awake, arching her back, her head tilted toward the sky, a dark chuckle escaped her lips as she licked them, feeling every inch of her body pulse and respond to his touch.


    Ricky slammed into her one final time, his body stiffening as he spilled inside her, the heat of his release mixing with the slickness between them.


    His head dropped, heavy and unresponsive, his breath shallow as the world seemed to slip away from him, falling into a drunken unconsciousness.


    Morgana, however, remained grounded.


    She lowered her gaze to his limp form, her fingers gently trailing the back of his head as she caressed him, her touch almost tender despite the mess they''d made.


    With a slow, satisfied smile, she pressed a kiss to the top of his head, soothing him into a deep, peaceful sleep.


    "I''m not like those other bimbo''s Ricky, I''m a queen~" Morgana whispered, her voice smooth and husky as she pressed her forehead softly to the top of his head.


    A satisfied smirk played on her lips as she leaned back, her eyes darkening with a mix of desire and command.


    "And you''ve shown me I''m ready for another." Morgana purred, her voice low and throaty.


    She watched as they both collapsed onto the bed, her gaze never leaving his sleeping form.


    Her chest heaved, still flush from their wild, messy encounter, but her mind was already plotting, already wanting more.


    "You''ve shown my I''m ready for a king~"


    DING


    Meanwhile at the Starlight Citadel,


    "There all dead~"


    Kitty''s voice crackled through the intercommunication device, trembling with grief.


    Her words reverberated all throughout the control room, hanging in the air with thick miasma of sorrow as she sobbed uncontrollably, holding Kurt''s disfigured, lifeless body in her arms.


    The scene unfolded in its entirety, the battle, the devastation, playing out before them as Saturnyne stood motionless, her gaze fixed, silently observing from the sidelines.


    At the forefront stood Lady Roma, bearing the weight of not only Saturnyne''s scrutiny but the countless gazes pressing down upon her.


    Not just from those present in the room, but from the silent judgment of the moment itself.


    Her head hung low, strands of hair veiling her expression as the haunting images of Ricky utterly dismantling Team Excalibur swirled around her.


    And through it all, her grief, her silence, Merlyn sat at his desk, a quiet, satisfied smile playing on his lips.


    He watched through the orb, a one-way monitoring device, as his plan clicked together, piece by piece.


    Every moment unfolded exactly as he had anticipated, each step falling seamlessly into place.


    Merlyn had deliberately withheld the crucial detail of how he knew exactly where Ricky would be to purposely divide her teams.


    By sending them on a wild goose chase, he ensured that only one team would be left to face Ricky directly since all the others would be at the other portals scattered around England.


    It was a calculated maneuver, designed not only to strengthen Ricky but also to ignite the fires of defiance within Lady Roma, his daughter.


    It was perfect, minimizing overall losses while maximizing her guilt and self-righteousness.


    So as he sat in the shadows, plucking one string after another, he finally tuned in to his communication orb, its faint glow casting an eerie light on his face.


    The pieces were already in place.


    He could see it all unfolding in his mind asLady Roma would inevitably come to Camelot, leading her forces as they defended against the imminent onslaught that was Ricky.


    Every move, every tactic, had been orchestrated with precision, and this moment was no different.


    Merlyn''s plan was almost complete, and it was only a matter of time before the chaos he had carefully constructed would come to a head.


    "My dear."


    The words echoed through the air, soft yet commanding, surrounding Lady Roma like an ominous shadow.


    She kept her head bowed low, her long black hair cascading over her face, as if it could shield her from the weight of her father''s words.


    "Did he-"


    "Yes, father. He killed them all." Lady Roma''s voice was hollow, tinged with sorrow and an undercurrent of something darker.


    The silence that followed was thick with the regret that came from this loss, but also with the looming sense of the chaos that Ricky had unleashed if left unchecked.


    "My darling daughter, I am so sorry." Merlyn''s tone carried the weight of sorrow, as if his heart ached not only for her but for the fallen souls.


    All around Lady Roma, the others lowered their heads, closing their eyes in solemn acknowledgment, granting the dead a moment of silence.


    "He''s coming-....that Ricky Luciano." Merlyn hesitated mid-sentence, only to spit out his name with utter disdain, as if the very syllables left a foul taste in his mouth.


    "And I think the problem with our approach is how we simply threw things at him one by one," Merlyn continued, guiding Lady Roma toward his inevitable conclusion.


    The others slowly nodded, their expressions shifting as his words took hold, the realization settling over them like an inescapable weight.


    "What I need to do-" Merlyn paused deliberately, his voice measured, calculated and then, with a slow breath, he corrected himself.


    "What we need to do is unite."


    The shift in his words was intentional, a carefully crafted moment meant to present the illusion of humility.


    He let the silence settle once more, allowing the weight of his supposed concession to sink in, as if lowering himself to the notion of joining forces was a sacrifice in itself, to allow for Lady Roma''s subconscious pride to understand that it was okay to lower itself to this idea.


    "What we need to do is join forces under the last stronghold of Camelot and stop this wicked fiend, this wicked man." Merlyn''s voice swelled with passion, each word carrying the weight of urgency and righteousness.


    The room, once subdued by grief and silence, slowly stirred and one by one, heads lifted, eyes drawn to the figure of Merlyn as he clenched his fist, as if grasping at straws, as if holding onto the last hope they had.


    The energy shifted, the despair turning into something else, something dangerously close to conviction.


    "We are strong on our own, but mighty as one!" Merlyn''s voice thundered through the chamber, reverberating with conviction.


    The others felt it, that small swell of pride, the embers of determination reigniting in their chests as their despair was being molded into resolve, their mourning into purpose.


    But amidst the growing fervor, Lady Roma remained still. Her head hung low, her shoulders trembling.


    Droplets of silent grief fell from her chin, staining the table beneath her. For all of Merlyn''s rousing words, the weight of failure still pressed upon her, heavier than any rallying cry could lift.


    "Saturnyne, order all teams to withdraw into Camelot, immediately." Lady Roma''s command cut through the charged air of her failure.


    Unlike Merlyn, who viewed his soldiers as mere tools to be used and discarded, she valued each individual under her command.


    Their lives, their loyalty, were precious to her, and it pained her to know they might suffer because of her earlier decisions.


    She didn''t want them to pay the price for her lack of judgment, for the gaps in her strategy.


    But Merlyn, standing at the heart of his own machinations, couldn''t help but smile.


    His gaze was one of cold satisfaction as he had anticipated this moment.


    His manipulations had pushed her to a breaking point, and now he knew that his influence was subtly guiding her toward the place by his side.


    In the end, it was never about the victory, it was about control and he had it.


    Or at least, he thought he did.


    Even though Merlyn had carefully planned for so long for such events to unfold as he intended, sometimes, not all the pieces clicked together the way he wanted them to.


    Because unlike her father, Lady Roma was naive.


    She still believed in the possibility of goodness, in the idea that things could be undone, that redemption was possible through sheer will.


    This idealism, this weakness, was something Merlyn had long ago abandoned.


    To him, the world was about power, control, and sacrifice.


    But Roma, despite her strength, still clung to notions of right and wrong, of loyalty and fairness.


    And that made her unpredictable, a variable that only now Merlyn would take notice of.


    "Saturnyne, take charge of the escort and evacuation while I buy time." Lady Roma words suddenly formed a slight crack in Merlny''s smile and shock in the others.


    "My dear-"


    "Gather my personal guard, we shall buy time whilst everyone evacuates into Camelot!" Lady Roma said selflessly, throwing herself into the flames to allow her compatriots time to escape.


    However, Ricky wasn''t headed to the Starlight Citadel at all.


    In fact, he didn''t care one bit about their organization, their purpose, or how they operated since Ricky only cared about one thing, kicking Merlyn''s ass.


    What Merlyn failed to account for was that by positioning Ricky as a threat to Otherworld, he had inadvertently propped him up in the mind of Lady Roma.


    Ricky wasn''t trying to destroy the realm, nor did he care about the political schemes unfolding within.


    All he cared about was tearing down the one person who''d been a consistent force against him, Merlyn.


    Yet, Merlyn''s plan had an unexpected success in one regard as he knew that his daughter would never abandon her post unless it was for the greater good, and so he cleverly set the narrative in motion.


    By framing Ricky as a dire threat to their people, he knew it would force Lady Roma into a position where she would feel compelled to take responsibility and supposedly ensure the safety of her people by coming to his side.


    While Ricky''s only goal was to engage in battle with Merlyn, the provoked reaction now caused Lady Roma to play directly into the trap her father had set, putting herself in harm''s way without even realizing it.


    Originally, he had worded Ricky as if he was coming to the Starlight citadel, but in doing so, Merlyn hadn''t accounted for one unforeseen variable, Lady Roma''s unwavering sense of duty.


    Lady Roma had been raised in the ideal image to stand by the side of Arthur, with the echoes of her father''s influence subtly shaping her character.


    But Merlyn''s love had blinded him to the fact that, in his effort to control and manipulate, he had unknowingly cultivated a hero in Lady Roma, one whose heart, full of devotion and sacrifice, would ultimately prove to be both her greatest strength and her greatest vulnerability.


    And it was only now that Merlyn truly realized the depth of his mistake.


    "No, you-"


    "I''m sorry, father, but I must do this." Lady Roma''s words were resolute, her conviction unwavering as she turned away.


    Her golden guards, her personal force separate from the rest of the teams, slowly appeared at the entrance, awaiting her command.


    "ROMA-" Merlyn''s voice broke with frustration, but before he could say another word, Lady Roma swiped her hand across the air, cutting the communication as she turned, walking down the hallway with determined steps.


    "You''re walking towards your death, you understand that, right?" Saturnyne''s voice cut through the silence, her arms crossed as she spoke with a tone of both warning and concern.


    Lady Roma paused, glancing back toward Saturnyne, her features softening as a heartfelt smile curved her lips.


    "I know."


    "But how can I ask others to die for a cause that I cannot die for myself?" Lady Roma''s voice was steady, laced with the weight of leadership and sacrifice.


    "Don''t be an idiot, come to Camelot." Saturnyne''s words were sharp, laced with a mix of frustration and care.


    "I know it is foolish, but I must try." Lady Roma shook her head, her expression resolute.


    "Tell my father, I''m sorry."


    BAM


    BAM


    Merlyn, in a fit of frustration, hurled his desk aside, the heavy thud echoing through the room as he stormed towards the swirling black artifact, a key piece in his carefully laid plan that was still in the process of being assembled.


    His mind raced as he realized he couldn''t leave Camelot just yet, there was still more to be done.


    Turning back to his desk, he scrambled toward the blackened orb, his fingers brushing over it as the tide of Chimera''s forces slowly made their way toward the land of Gorre as the image flickered before his eyes.


    "Yes, m-"


    "Speed up your attack," Merlyn said, his voice sharp and filled with urgency as he knew the final steps needed to be taken quickly, but as long as he achieved the intended result, nothing else mattered.


    "The Chimera horde will split, it w-"


    "It doesn''t matter, you were never supposed to win in the first place," Merlyn scowled, his eyes hardening with disdain as he cut off the orb as his gaze shifted to the other orb, which now displayed the image of his daughter leaving.


    For all intents and purposes, Merlyn could have left right then and there to save her, his beloved daughter.


    But as he reached out toward the orb, something inside him stopped him as he slowly clenched his fist, the weight of his decision pressing down on him.


    The thought of saving her, of abandoning his plan, felt foreign, almost impossible.


    He had always known the cost of this plan, but now, faced with the reality of his daughter''s sacrifice, the bitter irony hit him.


    She had become the very thing he had never intended to create, as if history was repeating itself, a force that threatened to unravel everything he had built.


    And yet, in that moment, Merlyn realized something he hadn''t anticipated: the depth of his own blind spot.


    "I suppose I should take a page from my foolish daughter''s book." Merlyn muttered under his breath, his voice bitter.


    "How can I ask others to sacrifice for a cause that I cannot sacrifice for myself?"


    Author''s Note: Ik what I said about posting earlier but I was just playing CK3 and watching Game of thrones, again.

 Chapter 184 - 175: Lady Roma Part 1

    Chapter 184 - 175: Lady Roma Part 1


    Author''s Note: webnovel = trash, can''t even post the entire chap that I put on my patreon here so I''m gonna post both parts but make sure you read the author''s note at the end cause it involves my burn out but don''t get all anxious, I ain''t dropping.


    In the dead of midnight,


    Snort


    "Peanut brittle?" Ricky snorted, waking up and muttering the words from his dream while blinking a few times, trying to register his surroundings as he scratched his head.


    The room around him was in complete disarray, bookshelves and tables scattered haphazardly.


    He glanced down, his eyes widening when he realized he was completely naked, barely covered by a silk sheet.


    Ricky scratched the back of his head, then turned to see Morgana, equally naked, clinging to his side.


    "Nice." Ricky muttered to himself, finally remembering most of the events that took place earlier before slowly lifting up the silk sheets to sneak a peek.


    "Nice~" Ricky whispered to himself again, seeing her tits heaving up and down, jiggling with her breath before unhooking himself from her claws.


    Stretching his arms above his head, Ricky let out a deep breath, his muscles relaxing with the exhale.


    He sat on the edge of the bed, the cool breeze from the terrace brushing against his balls as he nodded his head.


    As he leaned forward, scratching the back of his head, a window materialized before him, the soft light filtering in from outside.


    [Mission Received: Morgana Le Fay]


    Difficulty: Medium


    Character Sheet: SS


    Description: Morgana is a regal queen, exuding confidence and authority, yet beneath her composure lies centuries of buried pain and betrayal. Her insecurities remain hidden under the weight of her crown, but in rare moments, a mischievous, almost childish side emerges, a fleeting reminder that beneath power and duty, she is still human. If managed to open up to that side of her, then it wouldn''t be that hard to truly open her legs.


    Objective: Pelvic thrust repeatedly into her breedable hips.


    Reward: 750,000 IP


    Main Mission:


    Impregnante Once: (Complete)


    Choose: 7 Legendary Gacha, 15 Epic Gacha, and 50 regular Gacha Or Morgana Le Fay Powers


    Impregnate Twice:


    Rewards: ?????????


    Additional Missions:


    Unveil Her Queenly Form With Your Cock(Complete):


    Reward: Mythic Coupon


    Make The Queen Beg For Your Cock(Complete):


    Reward: 5 Legendary Coupons


    Bonus Missions:


    F*ck Morgana Until You Pass Out(Complete):


    Reward: Epic Skill Coupon


    Awaken Morgana''s Possessive side(Complete):


    Reward: Legendary Skill Coupon


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    ???????????????????


    Ricky rubbed his face, feeling the weight of his own choices as the whole point of getting closer to Morgana had been to squeeze as much out of these missions as possible, but he''d gotten too carried away with the hellwine.


    ''I''m only human, dammit.'' Ricky thought passionately, gripping his chest since he wasn''t perfect, and he accepted that.


    What were the odds that the second he''d resolved to take on this mission, a bottle of hellwine would just be handed to him?


    And from there, it had all gone downhill.


    Sigh


    "Baby steps," Ricky muttered, glancing back at the mission window before furrowing his brows.


    ''Possessive side?'' Ricky thought, his gaze drifting back to Morgana, still peacefully asleep in bed as he turned his attention back to the window.


    ''The good kind or the bad kind?'' Ricky pondered, scratching the back of his head.


    It wouldn''t hurt to have someone as smoking hot as Morgana infatuated with him, but sometimes, there could be too much of a good thing.


    Sniff


    "Whatever, now let''s focus." Ricky wiped his nose, shaking off the fog before looking at the screen in front of him, only to be struck by a sudden conundrum.


    Usually, he''d instantly choose Morgana''s powers, but now that he thought about it, maybe the gacha wouldn''t be such a bad idea.


    ''Let''s put it off for now and grab the coupons,'' Ricky thought, watching as the mythic coupon appeared on the screen.


    Received:


    (Mythic Skill) No Longer Human: A power that erases powers upon touch, reducing anyone or anything who possesses extraordinary abilities to mere mortals. The moment the user''s skin meets another''s, the effects are instantaneous, magic fizzles out, quirks and mutations fall dormant, and divine powers fade like forgotten whispers.


    Weaknesses:


    No ranged effect: The user can only activate the nullification through direct physical touch with the target.


    Temporary effect: The nullification lasts only as long as contact is maintained. Once contact is broken, the target''s abilities resume as normal.


    Limited to powered individuals: The ability has no effect on non-powered enemies. It only works on those who possess supernatural powers or magic.


    Cannot erase every aspect: The user can only choose one aspect to nullify at a time but in that time, whoever is affected cannot use it no matter what. Once the choice is made, the effects are locked in until the user disengages contact and reestablishes it.


    (Legendary Skill) Veil of Silence: A skill that allows the user to create zones of absolute silence, cutting off sound in a designated area. Within this veil, the user can move unnoticed, and all sound-based abilities are rendered ineffective. The longer the user maintains the zone, the more physically draining it becomes.


    (Legendary Skill) Fractured Image: A skill that allows the user to create three illusory copies of themselves. These copies are not physical but rather images that move and behave like the user. While the copies are intangible and can be destroyed by a single blow, if undisturbed, they are nearly indistinguishable from the real user and can never be discerned unless destroyed.


    (Legendary Item) Power Loan: A mysterious loanslip inscribed with arcane symbols that grants the user the ability to borrow power from their future self. The amount of power available to borrow is based on what their future self has accumulated, allowing the user to temporarily tap into extraordinary abilities or strength far beyond their current capacity. However, this power comes with a dangerous catch: if the user borrows more power than their future self has, the consequences are fatal.


    (Legendary Armor) Sunglasses of Clarity: A sleek, stylish pair of sunglasses that hold a hidden, legendary power, the ability to see through any illusion. Whether it''s a physical disguise, magical camouflage, or mind-bending illusion, these sunglasses allow the wearer to pierce through all deception.


    (Legendary Item) Soul Jar: The Soul Jar is an ancient, intricately designed vessel that possesses the powerful ability to trap and store a single soul. Crafted from an unknown, almost indestructible material, the jar''s exterior is adorned with runic inscriptions that glow faintly in the presence of souls. Though it can only hold one soul at a time, the jar offers the ability to transfer the soul from one species and transport it into another of the same species.


    (Legendary Item) Holy Ring: When worn, the Holy Ring can hide demonic, horrific, or cursed energies, preventing them from being detected by magical, spiritual, or supernatural means.


    (Epic Item) Dolly Parton''s Masters: A magical vinyl record that contains all of Dolly Parton''s songs, from her early hits to her most iconic anthems.


    Ricky stared at the new skills and items, scratching his chin as he contemplated his choices as his eyes drifted to the mythic skill he had just unlocked, and the more he studied it, the more intrigued he became.


    His gaze drifted downward, scanning through his other skills since lately, he hadn''t been acquiring abilities that dealt direct damage but rather ones with more unique, nuanced effects.


    It almost felt as if the next power he''d receive would be one that outshone all the others, a lethality that trumped everything he''d missed before, as if he were due for it.


    ''F*ck, I don''t know what to pick,'' Ricky muttered to himself as he knew he should probably go with Morgana''s powers, but with the new mythic skill in front of him, he found himself tempted to roll the dice and see if he could land something more lethal.


    3 hours later,


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, Ricky faced the moonlight streaming through the open terrace.


    The wind blew the curtains, revealing his brooding expression.


    For the past couple of hours, Ricky had been staring at the hovering blue screen in front of him, absentmindedly scratching his head as he was caught in a dilemma.


    It should''ve been obvious to pick Morgana''s powers, but something about the gacha drew him in.


    Sure, the items and powers he''d been getting as of late weren''t that great compared to the ones he received in the past, but that was gacha since there was no guarantee that luck would always be on his side.


    But that part of him, the gambler''s instinct, wanted to take a chance and see if he could get something better.


    But just as his hand hovered over the button, Alexander''s words rang in his mind, stopping him in his tracks.


    ''Focus your powers around your swordsmanship.''


    To any teacher or enemy watching Ricky, he would seem like a frustratingly powerful person.


    Unpredictable with time, whether it was his mentality or the powers he constantly gained, he was a mess.


    It was as if Ricky were a bundle of the unknown, something that could never be tied down to a single preconceived notion of fighting.


    And while that had its disadvantages, it also had its advantages.


    Even Merlyn was unsure what to make of Ricky.


    From his experience, those with powers usually gravitated toward a specific archetype, but Ricky was unconventional, to say the least.


    This was when Ricky began to doubt whether gacha was the right move.


    He wasn''t sure if he had enough time to fully understand all the new powers he had gained from it.


    Ricky had always trusted Alexander, and more often than not, he was right.


    But in this instance, even the conquered seemed to be leading Ricky astray, as doubt clouded his mind.


    ''Choose powers.''


    [Eldritch Abomination wishes to feed on Half-Faerie, will you allow consumption?]


    [Yes/No]


    Ricky paused for a moment, tilting his head as he pondered at the display.


    Normally, he''d feel a rush of power when making a decision like this, but it seemed the system had stopped that from happening.


    Usually, he''d throw caution to the wind and simply go with it, but that had backfired before, like with the Vampire Curse and the Holy Werewolf form.


    He had a feeling that if he chose ''Yes,'' he''d be consumed by it.


    Ricky regretted turning some of the skills into the Eldritch form, especially when he first got it.


    At the time, he''d been excited and impulsively started feeding everything into it without thinking.


    It was why Ricky wondered what would''ve happened if he hadn''t made those choices, if he hadn''t fed both forms into the skill.


    For once, he wanted to see what would happen if he didn''t follow the same path, if he chose something different this time.


    ''No.''


    Ricky ultimately chose ''No'' and the moment he did, he exhaled, feeling a chill spread through his veins.


    But before he could process it, that coldness quickly turned to a burning heat, surging through his body.


    Huff


    Huff


    Ricky staggered, his breaths coming in ragged gasps as he stumbled toward the terrace as his nails scraped against the stone railing, digging in for support as his body began to change.


    Muscles twisted and bulged beneath his skin, which rippled and raised in strange, painful contortions.


    His eyes, glowing an eerie green, shimmered as if something ancient and raw was awakening inside him.


    SPLAT


    Blood splattered across the stone, and with it, two delicate pixie wings, the kind one might find on a fae, tore through his back.


    The transformation was complete, and at that very moment, Morgana stirred in the bed, her senses alert to the chaos unfolding.


    Her eyes flared purple, widening in disbelief as they snapped toward the sound.


    Morgana''s breath caught in her throat, her gaze locking onto Ricky as his eyes, bloodshot and frantic, glowed with an unnatural intensity.


    His entire body was convulsing, as if his very DNA were being rewritten before her eyes as the transformation was far beyond anything she''d ever seen.


    The pixie wings, delicate and fragile, unfurled from his back, fluttering as they tore through his flesh, discarding bits of it like unwanted remnants.


    Morgana slowly sat up, her hands shaking as she watched in stunned silence, unable to comprehend the magnitude of what was happening as she had seen power before, but this, this was something entirely different.


    Ding


    Received:


    (Innate) Magical Energy Manipulation: All Faeries have a strong capacity to manipulate mystical energy, which they often use to perform spells or enchantments. Because of this, all faeries have a vast potential as Sorcerers (or Sorceresses).


    (Innate) Immortality: User, like most Faeries, is functionally immortal, immune to the effects of aging and ceasing to age upon reaching adulthood.


    (Innate) Wings: User possesses insectoid wings that extend from their back, allowing them to achieve flight.


    (Innate) Minor Nature Affinity: The user has a minor intrinsic connection to nature, allowing them to harmonize with and influence the natural world effortlessly.


    Chastiefol (Mastery: 9¡ú21%)


    (Unlocked) Second Form Guardian: In this form, Chastiefol transforms into a large stuffed bear. The Guardian is extremely durable and can protect its allies by shielding them from attacks or by acting as a powerful melee combatant.


    Race: Human¡úHalf Human, Half Faerie


    Strength: 66 (Middle realm of Superhuman)


    Stamina: 53 (Lower realm of Superhuman.)


    Vitality: 69 (Middle realm of Superhuman.)


    Agility: 59¡ú79 (Middle realm of Superhuman)


    Dexterity: 59¡ú64 (Middle realm of Superhuman))


    Intelligence: 40¡ú60 (Middle realm of Superhuman)


    Mana: 125¡ú150 (High realm of Superhuman.)


    Charm: 53¨C60 (Gracing superhuman levels, it is shocking that a bastard could grow this much and not be an incubus.)


    Appearance: 53¡ú60 (Have reached superhuman level of good looks, ones that are only portrayed in animated media that seemed impossible for regular minds.)


    "What the f*ck~" Ricky gasped, spitting as his face reddened in disbelief.


    Half of his body was in the midst of changing and all of the pain struck him like a tidal wave as he was all but caught up in it.


    Instead of simply integrating the traits of other races into his Eldritch Abomination skill, this transformation would leave a permanent mark on him.


    Ricky would now forever understand the consequences of blending with another race, each time he bred or absorbed their powers, the effects would leave an indelible change.


    It was agonizing, surreal, and something he knew he would never willingly repeat unless the new form was far better than the one he had now.


    Morgana stared in disbelief, her eyes wide with shock as she watched Ricky''s body contort and change before her.


    His features twisted in agonizing pain, his muscles shifting and bulging unnaturally as he gritted his teeth, struggling to stay upright, but it was all too much, even with his healing factor supplementing much of it.


    With a final, pained gasp, he collapsed, his body trembling from the intense strain.


    "Ricky!" Morgana exclaimed, catching him as he collapsed.


    Ricky groaned, his body twitching as his regenerative healing factor kicked in, black tendrils snaking across his skin, stitching him back together as he looked up, dazed.


    "How-you-I-" Morgana stammered, her mind racing with a thousand questions, but all that came out was a jumbled mix of disbelief.


    Ricky''s gaze shifted toward the night sky, his eyes distant, lost in the aftermath of his transformation.


    "Did I-...........did I just grow f*cking fairy wings?" Ricky whispered, his hand covering his face in disbelief as Morgana recoiled slightly at his blunt realization.


    "Wha-"


    "Did. I. Grow. Fairy. Wings." Ricky emphasized each word, punctuating every syllable as Morgana hesitantly glanced down at his back as the fairy wings slowly began to retract back into his body.


    "Yes?"


    "Oh my god, Lucky is never gonna let me live this down~" Ricky groaned, already seeing into the future on how he''d be called the tooth fairy.


    "Ya gotta promise me that you''ll never tell a soul, never." Ricky grasped her hand, pleading with her as if it was his final wish, his reputation hanging by a thread if this ever got out as the entire tough guy demeanor he had as a mob boss would fly out the window if anyone ever saw that he had fairy wings.


    "I-"


    "Promise me, dammit!" Ricky said, his tone overdramatic, but this was serious to him as Morgana, caught up in the heat of the moment, nodded her head.


    "I promise."


    Sigh


    "Good, good." Ricky sighed, feeling a little relieved at the assurance as Morgana chuckled and shook her head.


    "You grow fairy wings, and you want me to simply ignore it?" Morgana genuinely asked, turning her gaze back down to Ricky, who closed his eyes.


    "Yeah, basically." Ricky shamelessly said, his response causing Morgana to give him a deadpan stare before shaking her head.


    "I swear Ricky, sometimes you''re just-"


    "Frustrating, annoying, rash, impulsive?" Ricky sighed, listing off the four things that came to his mind, only for Morgana to place a thumb on his lips, stopping him.


    "Unpredictable." Morgana chuckled, rubbing his cheek as if soothing him, helping him back to the bed.


    Collapsing face first, Morgana settled right next to him, slowly stroking his hair as she looked at him with utter intrigue.


    "You know, when I first saw you, I thought you were just a slab of meat that looked good," Morgana joked, her gentle words causing Ricky to lift his head.


    In Morgana''s eyes, Ricky seemed like a perfect tenderloin, cut straight from the heavens themselves, a masterpiece of fat, taste, and flavor that others could only dream of.


    His appearance wasn''t half-bad either, but for Morgana, who had seen beauty after beauty over the ages, that wasn''t what drew her in, it only added to the allure.


    What truly lured her into Ricky''s gravitational pull was how utterly intriguing he was to her since Morgana had never met anyone like him, ever.


    And that was saying a lot, considering Morgana had met countless people over the years.


    But Ricky''s presence, his very voice, didn''t fit the typical archetypes she had grown to expect as he was something entirely new, something of his own.


    "Thank you?" Ricky groaned, his body aching as his muscles were being healed, his entire genome having been torn apart and pieced back together.


    "That''s not what I meant-well." Morgana laughed, trying to dissuade him, only to stop herself since that would be a lie.


    "Alright, maybe even after when I tasted you did I think-"


    Their words were abruptly cut off by a violent eruption of magic spiraling toward them, raw energy crackling through the air.


    Ricky''s danger sense flared like a siren in his mind as his body moved on instinct, hand snapping up, fingers curling as a barrier materialized into place.


    BOOM


    The impact sent a shockwave rippling through Morgana''s castle, rattling the very foundations.


    Dust and debris cascaded from the high ceilings as the magical explosion dispersed against Ricky''s defense.


    Ricky frowned, his gaze sharpening as he turned toward the source of the attack.


    There, standing in the open with an air of unwavering authority, was Lady Roma.


    The regal glow surrounding her was undeniable as if elegance and power wove into a single presence.


    Her piercing gaze remained locked onto Ricky, unreadable yet brimming with resolve.


    Flanking her in formation stood her Golden Guard Guardsmen, a legion of fifty warriors, each clad in immaculate armor engraved with ancient runes that pulsed faintly with mystic energy.


    Their shields gleamed under the dim light of the battlefield, spears poised at the ready.


    They were more than just soldiers; they were defenders of the realm, sworn to their leader''s will, and their intent was clear.


    Determination burned in their eyes, from the highest-ranking knight to the most unseasoned recruit.


    They had come prepared to stand against Ricky, to hold the line and buy time, time for the evacuation of the Starlight Citadel.


    All while charging forward, this misconception had snowballed, spiraling into the very moment unfolding now.


    "RICKY LUCIANO, COME ON OUT!" Lady Roma''s voice thundered across the terrain that would ensue into a battlefield, her magic power flaring with the intensity of her demand.


    The very air crackled under the weight of her authority, a white light radiating from her in pulses of sheer magical dominance.


    "What the f*ck?" Ricky muttered, scrunching his brows together as he tried to piece together the absurdity of the situation.


    This wasn''t just confusion but pure, unfiltered bafflement.


    Ricky had zero context for what was happening, yet here stood a fully armored battalion, their leader radiating righteous fury, as if she had personally been wronged by his very existence.


    Then, as if giving into her demands and lazily walking onto the terrace, Ricky stepped into view, completely naked.


    The Golden Guard Guardsmen, poised for battle, collectively faltered for half a second, their grips tightening on their weapons as if unsure whether to attack or avert their gaze.


    Lady Roma, however, did not waver as her piercing eyes bore into him, unimpressed, unamused.


    Ricky ran a hand through his disheveled hair, stretching lazily as if this wasn''t the climax of an imminent battle but rather an inconvenient wake-up call.


    "Uh, do I know you?!" Ricky yelled, leaning onto the terrace with a raised eyebrow, squinting down at Lady Roma.


    "Cause I don''t remember pissing off a bunch of golden magical knights!" Ricky added, his confusion was genuine as he had no idea who this woman was or what exactly he''d done to make her so furious.


    "You speak as though your hands are clean, as if your actions do not ripple across the realms!" Lady Roma shot back, her voice sharp with conviction while her gaze was piercing, fixed on the man she once thought she understood, now reconciling perception with reality.


    "You gettin'' any of this?" Ricky asked, turning back to Morgana, who was lounging on the bed, drawing circles on the silk sheets with a playful grin.


    "Just come back to bed~" Morgana purred, gesturing for him to come closer.


    Ricky side-eyed Lady Roma, then glanced back at the busty, naked woman on the bed, clearly torn between the two as the situation grew more bizarre.


    "You''re not the man I once believed in, you''ve made your choices and now stand and answer for them," Lady Roma said coldly, her voice laced with regret as she closed her eyes towards him in shame.


    "For f*ck''s sake, lady, can you at least tell me what I supposedly did before you start throwing around your moral judgment in my face?" Ricky groaned, turning back to her as she frowned, staring him straight in the eye.


    "You killed my faith in you."


    For all that Ricky was and all Lady Roma had come to know him for, she thought he was good.


    She knew he was a mob boss, she knew he killed, but Lady Roma had seen many heroes come in many shapes and forms.


    What she believed, what she was brought up on, and the figure she was taught to idolize, was Arthur Pendragon.


    This larger-than-life figure, who started as a weak, frail boy who managed to pull the sword from the stone.


    When Lady Roma looked at Ricky, or anyone for that matter, she saw, like most others, their outer image.


    In Ricky''s case, it was his mobster persona.


    But just like with Arthur when he was younger, it was difficult for most people to look past that exterior.


    Yet, Lady Roma always believed in looking beyond the visible flaws, wanting to see what lay inside.


    It wasn''t uncommon for a hero to come from a shady background, but what caught Lady Roma''s eye, what made the Starlight Citadel start to focus on him, wasn''t when he killed Dracula, it was when he went to trial.


    That''s when everything changed.


    That''s when Ricky stood on a global platform and declared himself to the world.


    Though it might have been brushed off and dismissed as just another fleeting action, chalked up to the latest stunt Ricky pulled, it had a lasting impact.


    His words, though seemingly insignificant in the grand scheme of things, created ripples that began to shape the tides of destiny.


    The declaration, his announcement as the Black Knight, sent shockwaves through circles that mattered.


    People started noticing him; figures of influence, leaders, and powerhouses began taking notice of Ricky Luciano.


    And that''s when the Starlight Citadel, too, began to watch.


    Ricky Luciano did what most mutants couldn''t do in that era, he stood out.


    For all that he was and all he would ever be, the thing that drew people to him in that moment was his courage.


    No mutant before him had dared such a thing in a time when society demanded that those with gifts hide in the shadows.


    Yet Ricky walked boldly into the light.


    That''s what made Lady Roma and the Starlight Citadel so captivated by him, because he stood up for who he was while most others lowered their heads.


    She had witnessed it herself, in the worlds within her cluster, where she saw firsthand what it truly took to show real courage.


    Lady Roma knew how easy it was to turn a blind eye, to stay hidden, to take the safe route.


    She knew that Ricky could''ve stayed in New York, built his empire, and profited without raising any suspicions.


    But he didn''t.


    Ricky actively went against the status quo, and that''s something most people will never do.


    Across the different worlds, with their varied timelines, Lady Roma saw that flicker of hope in him.


    It made her want to nurture that, to cultivate it into something more.


    But then, when she witnessed the horrors Ricky had committed, the true face behind his actions, it was as if the pieces of his redeemable side began to crumble away.


    The man who stood naked on the terrace wasn''t the hero she had imagined.


    Because, for all that Ricky had built himself to be in the public eye, it was hard for people to truly grasp how far he was willing to go.


    Most people couldn''t understand it, Lady Roma couldn''t understand it.


    And that was why she was here.


    Because Merlyn''s greatest mistake in raising her was in making her idolize Arthur so much that she believed sacrifice was more important than one''s own personal desires.


    He raised her to be too selfless, and it was that very flaw that now stood in the way.


    "Your what?"


    "Don''t play dumb-"


    "No, seriously, I have no idea who you even are." Ricky laughed, genuinely confiding in the truth as he was baffled as to why she was here and why she had started attacking him.


    "I mean, what''s your problem? Do you just come out of nowhere and attack people?" Ricky asked, frowning since he was the wronged party in this situation and yet, she was trying to make him out to be the bad guy.


    "SPEAK FOR YOURSELF!" Lady Roma yelled, her voice cracking with emotion as her heartbroken eyes locked onto Ricky.


    "You come to our world with such ill intentions, what have we ever done to you?!" Lady Roma shouted, her hand clutching her chest as if the pain were too much to bear.


    "What possible reason could you have to go to such lengths to commit such atrocities?" Lady Roma demanded, tears welling up in her eyes as she stared at him, her heart raw and exposed.


    Ricky, still standing there in confusion, glanced around, his brow furrowing deeper as he couldn''t understand why this was happening or what he had done to deserve this kind of fury.


    "Wh-WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?!" Ricky asked, utterly baffled by this woman, who seemed to be spewing nonsense at him.


    "The Ordo Draconum, Team Excalibur, and now Otherworld? What''s to stop your greed?!" Lady Roma''s voice cracked with both fury and disbelief, her words slicing through the confusion.


    Ricky paused for a moment, processing the names she had thrown at him and slowly, he wiped his mouth, a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips.


    "Ha~" he sighed, shaking his head as he raised his hand to his eyes, as though unable to prevent himself from the absurdity of the situation.


    "Hahahahahahahaha!" Ricky''s laugh bellowed from deep within his chest, erupting like a storm.


    He reached into the pit of his stomach, pulling out one handful of laughter after another, each chuckle louder and more unhinged than the last.


    "WHEN WILL POWER AND MONEY BE ENOUGH FOR YOU TYPES OF PEOPLE?!" Lady Roma yelled, her voice sharp with anger as she felt the sting of his laughter as her frustration was growing, and she began riling herself up even further.


    But even though Ricky was still completely confused by her, something shifted in him.


    He realized that, even if he did eventually understand who this woman was and why she was here, he wasn''t going to like her, not in the slightest.


    "Man, I f*cking hate people like you," Ricky sighed, his tone flat, almost bored, as he leaned over the balcony, staring down at her while Lady Roma''s eyes widened.


    "Wh-What?" Lady Roma recoiled, completely caught off guard by his sudden bluntness.


    "I said I don''t like people like you, cause, y''know, I might be a piece of sh*t," Ricky said, placing a hand over his chest with a smirk, before letting out a chuckle.


    "But everyone''s greedy" Ricky continued, casually leaning his hand against his head, his eyes fixed on Lady Roma, who stood there, visibly stunned.


    "I have never been greedy for money or power-"


    "Greed ain''t just about money or power, nitwit." Ricky scoffed, pointing a finger at Lady Roma before his smile slowly raised.


    "Everyone wants something they don''t have, that''s greed." Ricky said, knocking on the terrace with a confident grin, feeling a sense of satisfaction as Lady Roma stood there, momentarily speechless.


    It was then that Morgana caught sight of Lady Roma, her expression darkening.


    She quickly put on her silk black robe and moved toward Ricky and without saying a word, Morgana stepped behind him, wrapping her arms around his back and sliding her hands down to rest on his hips.


    "Let''s go back to bed~" Morgana whispered, pressing a soft kiss to his shoulder as she peeked at Lady Roma with a knowing glance, fully aware of who she was.


    He honestly wasn''t in the mood for some philosophical debate with this random woman, especially when Lady Roma''s eyes scrunched in irritation at his indifference.


    "DO NOT WALK AWAY FROM THE FACES YOU WRONGED!" Lady Roma screamed, gritting her teeth as Ricky turned back with a scowl.


    "B*tch, I don''t even know who you are," Ricky said, rolling his eyes and about to turn forward only for Lady Roma to beat him to it.


    "I AM THE DAUGHTER OF MERLYN AND PROTECTOR OF THE STARLIGHT CITADEL-" Lady Roma roared, listing off her titles, but she didn''t need to continue for long.


    The moment she mentioned Merlyn, Ricky''s previously nonchalant expression faltered.


    He stopped paying attention to the rest of her accolades, slowly turning back to her, his gaze sharpening as Lady Roma continued, oblivious to the shift.


    "What?" Ricky asked, his eyes, which had once held that casual disinterest, now hollow, as Morgana let out an exasperated sigh behind him.


    "That''s Lady Roma, the daughter of Merlyn and the leader of the Starlight Citadel," Morgana muttered with a venomous tone, knowing full well that Ricky wouldn''t let this go.


    "Ya don''t say," Ricky laughed, slowly backing up from her hold while shaking his head, his expression a mixture of disbelief and amusement.


    "Do you require any assistance?" Morgana asked, her tone already knowing what was about to unfold.


    "Depends on who those guys around her are," Ricky replied, gesturing his head toward Lady Roma''s entourage.


    He held out his hand, and the ebony artifacts flew toward him as if drawn by an invisible force, gathering in his palm with a metallic hum.


    ''Filthy humans and their breeding, must you do it when we are present!'' The Ebony Shield spat, his voice laced with disgust as he returned to Ricky''s side.


    ''And furthermore, you mate with that halfling, really?'' The Ebony Crown scoffed with a tinge of racism, looking at Ricky and Morgana with disdain, their actions akin to animals in heat.


    ''You get used to it,'' The Ebony Blade sighed, already weary of these kinds of exchanges, though not particularly interested in sticking around for the drama.


    ''I LIKE TRAINS!'' The Ebony Chalice cheered, its voice filled with childlike excitement while its siblings turned toward him in confusion, watching as he started prance around and dance in place.


    "Will you guys shut up-"


    "The guards-"


    "......"


    Ricky, suddenly bombarded by the ebony artifacts'' overlapping voices, cut off Morgana as they both fell into silence, the tension in the air thick as he glanced around.


    "Sorry, the voices in my head distract me sometimes. You were saying?" Ricky said, phrasing it in the worst way imaginable, causing Morgana to raise an eyebrow, her expression a mix of confusion and disbelief.


    "Right, well, those golden-armored soldiers around Lady Roma are known as the Guardsmen," Morgana informed, watching as Ricky''s naked body slowly morphed into his Black Knight form.


    "They were created by Merlyn when he first established the Starlight Citadel, an order whose sole purpose is to protect the leader of the Starlight Citadel." Morgana informed him, lazily gazing at the soldiers who were probably created in advance for Lady Roma to take the position one day.


    "They are comprised of warriors who were born into the Starlight Citadel, trained under its doctrines, and more or less are one with the Citadel itself," Morgana explained, gesturing to the guards as Lady Roma continued to babble, her guardsmen already poised for battle.


    "So, once again, would you like my assistance?" Morgana asked, walking up to him and slowly tracing circles on his breastplate as Ricky thought for a moment, but then shook his head.


    "Nah, cause, if I can''t even beat them up, then I can''t beat up that cunt Merlyn." Ricky said, planting a kiss on her cheek before striding over to the terrace, his eyes narrowing as he prepared for what was to come.


    Walking forward, Ricky steps off the terrace, but instead of forming a platform beneath him, he starts to plummet.


    Boom


    As Ricky''s body plummeted toward the ground, the earth erupted beneath him, sending dirt and debris spiraling into the air, breaking Lady Roma''s relentless tirade, her words halting mid-sentence.


    She watched, eyes narrowed in seething contempt, as Ricky emerged from the cloud of dust.


    His black knight form stood tall and imposing, the dark armor gleaming under the dim light of Other Worlds sun.


    "How dare you adorn my father''s creations?" Lady Roma hissed, her voice thick with fury.


    "Whatever, it''s not like it''s bound to my f*cking bloodline-oh wait, it is," Ricky chuckled, a smirk tugging at his lips as he casually flexed his hand around the Ebony Blade, a clear sign of his actual birthright to wield the artifacts.


    Lady Roma scoffed in response, her gaze darkening with frustration.


    "It does not matter, I shouldn''t feel threatened when it cannot even compare to Excalibur." Lady Roma''s words rang out, but the second they did, all the Ebony Siblings became deathly silent before slowly turning back to the Ebony Blade, whose gaze now became sharp.


    "Now you''ve done it-" Ricky laughed, knowing what happened last time someone compared the Ebony Blade.


    Boom


    A red torrent of aura exploded outward from Ricky''s entire being, the Ebony Blade''s fierce gaze locked forward, its expression twisted in pure hatred.


    ''That was a very, how you say, low blow,'' The Ebony Crown chimed in, its tone almost mocking, as it watched the Ebony Blade actually begin to convulse in anger.


    ''Well, Lady Roma does have a point, you do not compare-'' The Ebony Shield started to speak, only for the Ebony Blade''s body to erupt in a surge of fury.


    BOOM


    The explosion of red aura reached its peak, a violent surge of power that caused the guardsmen to brace themselves, their spears raised, while Lady Roma''s eyes widened at the sheer intensity of the hateful energy all directed toward her.


    ''Ricky, I rarely ask anything of you,'' The Ebony Blade continued, its form trembling as it clutched its heart, scarred from battles past.


    Even as it healed, the wounds, both physical and emotional, throbbed with undeniable pain.


    The Ebony Blade''s grip tightened on its chest, each scar a reminder of its history, its bond with Ricky.


    And Excalibur was to blame for many of these scars.


    ''I bid my time, I am quiet, and I always tend to myself, but now I ask of you one thing.'' The Ebony Blade''s voice erupted, its presence flaring with a pent-up fury that could only be satisfied by blood.


    ''Destroy the woman in front of you.'' The Ebony Blade uttered, its words sharp and laden with a weight that pressed down on Ricky''s chest.


    "I need her alive man, I''m gonna use her as a hostage-"


    ''Did I ask you to kill her?'' The Ebony Blade''s question echoed, clarifying that destroying her didn''t necessarily mean death, but the annihilation of her will.


    "Damn, uh, alright," Ricky replied, raising an eyebrow as the blade slowly started to calm, though Lady Roma and her guards remained alert, unwavering in their stance.


    ''You do not understand that name, it elicits such reactions from me. I do not like being compared to that-..........sword.'' The Ebony Blade muttered, his words dripping with hatred, seeping into Ricky''s mind as he tapped the blade against his shoulder and nodded.


    "Yeah, I''m the same way, not a big fan of being compared to others," Ricky said, knowing how annoying it was to meet the expectations of others, particularly Lucky.


    "Fourth configuration, on me," Lady Roma whispered, issuing a quiet command to her guardsmen as Ricky continued his conversation with the Ebony Blade.


    Slowly, the golden-armored guardsmen raised their shields and drew their swords, their figures tightening into a spear-like formation around her, each one poised for battle.


    "Does it have to be with you? ''Cause I kinda want to use some of my-" Ricky started, his voice laced with curiosity as he eyed the approaching formation, eager to test his skills and gauge how much he''d improved.


    Before he could finish, his words were cut off as the guardsmen charged, their synchronized movements a blur of polished gold and sharp intent.


    "Celestial Art: Earth Mother''s Grace!" Lady Roma commanded, her voice steady and authoritative, as her hands radiated a brilliant white light.


    The ground before them trembled and cracked, erupting in a surge of hands formed from the very earth itself.


    They reached upwards, converging into a tidal wave of stone and dirt, crashing toward Ricky with a ferocity that seemed unstoppable.


    But despite the overwhelming force of the spell, Ricky stood unfazed at the center of the oncoming tide.


    A translucent barrier surrounded him, shimmering in the chaos, shielding him from the earth''s violent embrace.


    He could''ve activated Full Counter, an instant response to redirect the power, but Ricky hadn''t resorted to that yet, and there was a reason.


    For the first time, Ricky didn''t want to reveal every card he had.


    Though this might seem obvious to most, Ricky was just beginning to immerse himself in battle tactics, and he was finally starting to grasp the importance of strategy.


    One of the simplest rules of combat was something everyone learned early on: never show your complete hand.


    In the past, Ricky had always been quick to show off his powers, believing it was the easiest way to avoid complications.


    But now, he was starting to understand the value of keeping some tricks up his sleeve.


    He wasn''t using Full Counter, and it wasn''t because he couldn''t, it was because he chose not to.


    When he''d first used Full Counter against Baron Blood, it was a game-changer.


    But because of it, Dracula had immediately altered his entire strategy, adapting to Ricky''s counter and rendering it nearly useless.


    Ricky realized that by showing his full hand too early, he was giving his enemies too much information to use against him.


    He''d learned the hard way.


    Now, for the first time in his life, Ricky was thinking instead of acting recklessly.


    He wasn''t about to let Lady Roma, or anyone else, see everything he was capable of as he knew Merlyn was probably watching, just as he had with the Ordo Draconum.


    Ricky wasn''t going to make the same mistake twice.


    As the tidal wave of earth hurtled toward him, Ricky made a choice as he wouldn''t rely on his usual power.


    Instead, he stood firm, letting the barrier surround him as the spell barreled down.


    This wasn''t about brute force, it was about playing the long game and for once, Ricky was using others'' expectations of him being reckless and impulsive to his advantage.


    Boom


    The spell crashed down onto Ricky, the earth shattering beneath the force as palms of stone struck one after another, relentless in their assault.


    As the spell consumed the air around him, Lady Roma''s guardsmen surged forward, using the spell''s force as a bridge to close the distance.


    Their bodies erupted in a radiant golden aura, which slowly funneled into the runes etched across their armor.


    The runes pulsed with energy, and their magic was converted into a blinding white light that surged across their bodies, rapidly enhancing their speed and strength to a superhuman degree.


    The guardsmen''s magic no longer just powered their spells, it transformed them into physical titans.


    At the lowest level, they were now superhuman, and their movements became a blur as they lunged toward the barrier protecting Ricky.


    The leftover dust and debris scattered in all directions as his sovereign aura suddenly expanded outward, washing over the battlefield like a tidal wave.


    The guardsmen, caught in the force, felt as if their feet were sinking into the very ground beneath them.


    Ricky''s will pressed down on them, an almost physical weight, as if the very earth itself was trying to pull them under.


    Their bodies grew heavy, as though their mass had tripled in an instant, and their charge came to a screeching halt.


    They were unable to advance, trapped in the invisible grip of Ricky''s willpower manifested.


    Ricky''s laughter echoed through the clearing, dark and mocking as he watched them struggle, unable to break free from the crushing pressure.


    "Well, would you look at that?" Ricky muttered, watching as the guardsmen, though staggered, refused to collapse.


    They pressed forward, still intent on breaching his barrier as his gaze swept over them before flicking upward, contemplating the moment.


    When you''re progressing, it''s hard to notice change unless it happens all at once.


    Lady Roma''s offensive magic was by no means weak, its lethality rivaled Dracula''s.


    Yet, instead of his barrier shredding like paper beneath its force, it pulsed with a faint green tint.


    It was like a sign that his willpower had strengthened it, his intelligence had sharpened it, and with it, his brain''s capacity had expanded.


    That expansion, in turn, enhanced his forcefield, making it more resilient than before.


    Ricky was no longer the same person who had fought Dracula, and though that much was obvious, the way he had grown made all the difference.


    And because he had grown, this fight would be different.


    Slowly, two ethereal arms sprouted from his back, forming with an almost divine fluidity.


    The Sunflare Bow tore itself from his flesh, manifesting between them as one spectral hand grasped the handle, flames licking along its grip, while the other pulled back the bowstring, imbued with the swiftness of the wind.


    "Aye, Lady Roomba, you''re gonna have to do better than that!" Ricky taunted, aiming to provoke her and test the limits of his barrier.


    "You-"


    Before she could finish, Ricky''s ethereal hand let go, releasing the void arrow that had been gathering at the string as it shot forward in an instant, streaking toward one of the guardsmen.


    BAM


    SPLAT


    "RICKTOR!" Lady Roma screamed, watching in horror as the void arrow tore through the guardsman''s stomach, ripping apart flesh and leaving a gaping hole in its wake.


    THUMP


    Ricktor, the fallen guardsman, collapsed to the ground as the black fire left behind cauterized the wound, ensuring no healing could mend the gaping hole as he gasped, struggling, as his life ebbed away before Lady Roma''s eyes.


    Then, as if to snap her out of her stunned silence, Ricky let loose another arrow.


    BOOM


    The projectile struck the random guardsmans known as Ricktor with a final blow, detonating on impact as his body burst apart like a balloon, chunks of flesh and armor scattering across the battlefield.


    CLAP


    Her gaze pulsed with renewed resolve, her entire body erupting in a radiant white light.


    The moment her hands came together, luminous tendrils shot outward from her being, latching onto the remaining forty-nine struggling guardsmen.


    Ricky, unbothered, pulled back the Sunflare Bow and released another shot as the void arrow rocketed forward, aimed straight for another target.


    BOOM


    A flash of white intercepted the projectile, stopping it in its tracks.


    A puff of black smoke erupted where the void arrow had struck, only for Lady Roma to emerge from behind it, her entire form glowing with divine radiance.


    With a single motion, she funneled her magic into her soldiers, weaving a protective barrier around them.


    "I WILL SUPPORT YOU FROM BEHIND!" Lady Roma declared, her white light surging outward, wrapping around the guardsmen and layering over their already gleaming golden armor.


    "YOU HEARD OUR LADY, MEN! CHARGE! WE SHALL NOT FALL TO THIS FIEND!" The guardsmen captain bellowed, reinvigorated by her blessing, his rallying cry igniting the morale of his soldiers as Ricky rolled his eyes.


    Within the next minute, they roared away their fears, turning their morale on its head before charging at Ricky.


    Though Lady Roma was capable of commanding devastating offensive spells, her true specialty lay in support.


    The once-daunting distance between them was rapidly closing, as the guardsmen, now strengthened in both body and mind, pressed forward, their enhanced physiques and fortified wills making them all the more formidable.


    BAM


    BAM


    BAM


    Spears slammed against Ricky''s barrier in a coordinated assault, their strikes echoing through the battlefield.


    Ricky responded with another surge of his sovereign aura, the force rippling outward.


    But these were no ordinary soldiers and unlike the opponents he was used to, these men had been born and raised for battle.


    Even without Lady Roma''s divine protection, they stood firm, their training under Merlyn having conditioned them to overcome mental hurdles that would break lesser warriors.


    Now, with both physical and mental shields bolstered by her magic, faltering was not an option.


    The relentless barrage continued, strikes raining down from every direction and yet Ricky remained still, as if waiting for something.


    Meanwhile, Lady Roma pushed her magic to its limits, pure white light coursing through her body, her once-dark hair gradually turning white as she wove another protective layer around her soldiers.


    With this final enhancement, their attacks nearly doubled in ferocity, spears stabbing from all angles, hammering at Ricky''s defense.


    From the nearby terrace, Morgana leaned lazily against the railing, watching the spectacle unfold with an unreadable expression.


    Lady Roma''s eyes darted toward her in that moment, noting the casual wave of her fingers, an action that only heightened her suspicion.


    Morgana, dressed in a loose-fitting black robe, didn''t seem to be preparing to join the fray, but rather, was simply watching, a quiet observer from the sidelines.


    This behavior, especially from someone of Morgana''s caliber, set Lady Roma''s nerves on edge.


    ''Something''s wrong.'' Lady Roma thought inwardly, her attention snapping back to Ricky.


    Despite being completely surrounded by her empowered guardsmen, Ricky remained unnervingly calm.


    His expression was unreadable, almost indifferent to the relentless assault as each spear thrust, each strike, seemed to have little effect.


    Then, the first sign of strain occurred.


    Crack


    A single, small crack appeared in his otherwise impenetrable barrier.


    Ricky raised an eyebrow, seemingly surprised at how long it had taken for this much to happen as he had expected more from forty-nine fully juiced-up guardsmen.


    "Man, I didn''t think it would take this long," Ricky muttered, his voice laced with genuine admiration as he felt the strain on his barrier.


    The strength of his defense seemed to double, but the toll was becoming evident.


    A slight headache throbbed behind his eyes as more cracks began to spider across the surface of his barrier, each one signaling that his control was slipping, if only slightly.


    Then, at his command, the same psychic constructs that had once appeared within Dracula''s castle began to materialize above the heads of the forty-nine guardsmen.


    They were shaped like cannons, their green tint glowing faintly in the air as they sprouted like weeds.


    But they didn''t fire.


    Ricky''s mind raced, unbothered by the incoming danger, as he focused on the psychic cannons hovering in the air.


    Without even a flicker of hesitation, he began to tinker with them, shaping their forms to his will.


    His control over his powers had grown so much that even in the heat of battle, he could manipulate these constructs with ease.


    The cannons, once solid and static, began to change as thin barrels started to form within each one, the green energy spiraling and condensing into the shape of a gun''s barrel.


    The cannons no longer resembled crude weapons of destruction, they were becoming something more refined, more personal.


    Ricky''s subconscious was working in overdrive, crafting these new weapons as if they were extensions of his own will as his mechanical energy skill was able to piece together this otherwise complicated machine construct.


    Each barrel condensed, merging the raw psychic energy into an intricate pattern of deadly precision, ready to fire.


    He could feel the power humming beneath his skin, the energy thrumming in time with his heartbeat.


    Meanwhile, the guardsmen, including their captain, noticed the shift.


    The captain''s eyes snapped to the horizon in the distance, a sudden tension rippling through his body.


    He squinted, trying to make sense of what he was seeing as the air around Ricky had changed, crackling with energy that felt both alien and familiar.


    "Captain?" one of the guardsmen called, his voice low and laced with uncertainty.


    "SHIELDWALL!" The captain roared, his eyes shrinking at the complete formation of these cannons, making his gut wrench from the danger looming over them.


    The guardsmen, responding in perfect unison, quickly retreating and forming a tight shield wall.


    Their golden shields raised in front of them, shimmering with the protection Lady Roma''s magic had imbued them with.


    But Ricky stood still, watching them with calculating eyes, his fingers barely twitching.


    The air around him shimmered with an almost tangible weight as the barrels of the psychic cannons, now fully formed, glowed brighter.


    A faint hiss sound from within the barrels, the condensed energy crackling ominously in the air and with a sharp snap of his fingers, Ricky activated the weapons.


    Boom


    Boom


    Boom


    The explosive bursts of concentrated psychic energy shot outwards, ripping through the air like bullets, streaking toward the shield wall.


    But Ricky''s method was far more devastating than just a simple barrage.


    The cannons fired one after another, each barrel in line with the next, systematically unleashing a circular barrage of pure mental energy.


    Each shot fired was a bullet of condensed force, spiraling around the target with the precision of a gatling gun.


    The shields of the guardsmen buckled under the force, and yet they held firm, gritting their teeth as the sheer power slammed into them.


    The first wave hit, creating a shockwave that rocked them to their core, but they didn''t break.


    They were seasoned soldiers, trained to withstand even the harshest of storms.


    As the cannons continued their relentless fire, the walls of psychic energy circled Ricky like a deadly dance.


    The captain''s face hardened, but he knew that holding the line was the only option now as they couldn''t falter, not when their lady''s power depended on them.


    But Ricky wasn''t just testing his enemies, he was also testing his limits.


    With every pulse of energy, his control over the constructs tightened.


    "ARGH!" Lady Roma grunted, her body tensing as the backlash of the relentless barrage of green energy bullets crashed down on her guardsmen. The sheer force rattled through her, but she gritted her teeth, unwilling to show any sign of weakness.


    The dozens of cannons, each a swirling vortex of concentrated psychic energy, unleashed a storm of bullets, raining down upon the shield wall.


    The guardsmen held their ground, shields locked together, their arms trembling under the weight of the unrelenting assault.


    They were powerful, but even they couldn''t escape the overwhelming power of Ricky''s focused fury.


    "Hahahahahaha!" Ricky''s laughter rang out, a manic, almost victorious sound that echoed through the battlefield.


    His eyes glowed with an unnatural intensity as he reveled in the torrent of energy that flowed from him, the sheer feeling of power unlike anything he''d ever felt before.


    For so long, he''d been constrained, his growth stunted, his ambitions hampered.


    But now, as the psychic cannons spiraled outward, each shot a reminder of how far he''d come, he could feel the weight lifting off his shoulders.


    Each bullet fired, each crack in the guardsmen''s defenses, felt like a step forward.


    It wasn''t just about pushing his powers, it was about pushing his mind; the barriers, the limits, that had once held him back felt like they were crumbling away with each attack.


    As the guardsmen struggled to maintain their shield wall, he couldn''t help but feel a rush of exhilaration.


    Lady Roma''s body surged with a blinding white energy, her aura expanding around the guardsmen as she reinforced their defenses.


    The pure white light formed a barrier, delicate but strong, wrapping around them like a protective cocoon.


    In response, Ricky''s green hellfire of bullets rained down upon them, clashing violently with the white, their energies colliding in a spectacular battle of auras.


    The white light, radiating purity and grace, attempted to shield the guardsmen, fending off the torrent of Ricky''s willpower.


    But the green aura was relentless, a force of nature, a predatory force that surged forward like a beast tearing at its prey.


    Each shot of psychic energy felt like a ferocious attack, chipping away at their shields, seeking to destroy the heart of their defenses.


    Through the chaos, Chastiefol, the ethereal weapon, slithered silently off to the side; controlled, deliberate, and patient, it hovered like a shadow, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.


    BOOM


    With an explosive force, Ricky''s green aura surged forward, crashing down onto the guardsmen and Lady Roma''s protective layer.


    The sheer pressure of his will seemed to push against them, an invisible force pressing their heads into the dirt beneath him.


    His laughter echoed through the chaos as the guardsmen''s legs began to wobble and buckle, their shields trembling in their hands.


    Despite their efforts to hold firm, the crushing weight of Ricky''s power slammed down on them.


    The psychic gatling guns unleashed their relentless barrage, pounding into them with a fury that made the air vibrate.


    The sheer firepower, condensed into this one devastating moment, overwhelmed them.


    The guardsmen could barely maintain their footing, their shields buckling under the assault.


    Ricky could feel the strain beginning to show, a satisfying tension building within him as he watched them struggle.


    ''How far can I push this?'' Ricky wondered, a spark of excitement igniting inside him.


    For the first time in what felt like forever, he was driven by something beyond just survival, he was driven by the rush of improvement, of pushing himself further.


    The crushing monotony of life in Italiano''s had weighed him down for so long.


    The endless, soul-crushing daily tasks, the grinding repetition of learning without ever truly feeling like he was advancing, it had all left him feeling stagnant, as though he were locked in a cage of his own making.


    But now, with every ounce of energy and power flowing through him, Ricky felt something different.


    The adrenaline coursed through his veins, and he realized just how much he had missed this feeling, this sensation of carving out his own path, of breaking free from the constraints that held him back.


    All that frustration, all that stress, he was unloading it all on these poor guardsmen.


    Each shot, each wave of power, was an echo of everything he had bottled up for far too long. And in that moment, Ricky didn''t just feel like a fighter.


    He felt alive.


    BOOM


    Another explosion echoed through the battlefield, sending shockwaves of force that rattled the guardsmen''s eardrums.


    The thundering sound reverberated in their heads, the force of the blast slowly chipping away at the white aura surrounding their golden shields.


    ''No, I-It can''t end like this!'' Lady Roma''s roar cut through the chaos, her voice laced with desperation.


    Her white light flared fiercely, attempting to counter the onslaught, but Ricky''s psychic abilities pressed down on her with relentless power.


    She refused to be beaten here, not like this.


    The Ebony Blade, watching from the shadows, couldn''t help but frown as he saw Ricky toying with the situation.


    It should have ended long ago, yet Ricky seemed to be using this as a moment to practice his growing psychic prowess, seemingly unfazed by the stakes.


    ''If this is just practice, and you''re not going to take this seriously, you might as well learn to use the Ebony Chalice.'' The Ebony Blade''s voice echoed in Ricky''s mind, calm yet sharp, as the two other Ebony entities, Crown and Shield, flinched in response.


    ''You''re kidding.'' The Ebony Crown muttered, its voice tinged with disbelief.


    ''YEAHHHHHHH, MY TURN, MY TURN, MY TURN!'' The Ebony Chalice''s voice sang with manic excitement, dancing in Ricky''s mental space as it was eager to be of use.


    All while Ricky''s brow furrowed, turning hsi face towards the last ethereal hand dangling the Ebony Chalice next to his face.


    "How the fck am I supposed to use a chalice here?" Ricky muttered aloud, gesturing towards the literal fight in front of him as he was already stretched thin, dealing with the army of guards and Lady Roma''s defenses, and now, this as the Ebony Blade sighed in his mind.


    ''My youngest sibling is not simply a chalice, but the form in which we address him, the youngest is the manifestation of the leftovers that were dropped into the water that cooled us all off,'' The Ebony Blade explained, his tone almost distant.


    The Ebony Chalice, which had been held in the last ethereal hand, suddenly began to melt like liquid water, its once-solid form distorting and dissolving.


    Ricky watched as what appeared to be water, infused within the chalice was actually a swirling white aura.


    The supposed liquid shifted and reformed, its glowing essence gathering into a aura-like mist, floating around the liquid remnants of the Ebony Chalice.


    Before Ricky''s eyes, he saw the ebony blob of liquid hovering in the air with an ethereal white aura swirling around it like a ring as he frowned, unsure of what he was seeing.


    "The hell am I gonna do with this-"


    Suddenly, as if completing the final piece of a puzzle, the Ebony Chalice collided with Ricky''s helmet.


    The force of the impact sent a ripple through his vision, and the facemask guarding it slowly began to shimmer and transform, shifting into its full design.


    The complete form of the Ebony Knight had been unlocked.


    Instinctively, Ricky inhaled deeply, as if to prepare for an attack, but instead, he breathed in the white mist.


    His green eyes twitched and began to convulse as a strange white layer shimmered over them.


    "Holy sh*t-" Ricky whispered under his breath, the world around him seemingly distorting as time itself froze, and he was suddenly pulled into a strange black room.


    All around him, millions of screens materialized, stretching into an infinite, endless void.


    Each screen flickered with strange, cryptic images that he couldn''t quite comprehend.


    It was a mental space, a dimension between realms, and his eyes sparked green as his mind raced to process the overwhelming influx of information.


    ''Control it.''


    BOOM


    The space around Ricky exploded in a burst of green aura, radiating from his very core.


    The Ebony Blade materialized at his side, its dark presence contrasting sharply with the overwhelming green sovereign energy that Ricky was emanating.


    "It''s like my f*cking mind is being split endlessly-" Ricky gritted his teeth, feeling the intense pressure as his psyche seemed to shatter and reform with every pulse of energy.


    The screens around him flickered faster, growing louder, almost suffocating him with the possibilities of what could be.


    "Then control even that." The Ebony Blade''s voice was calm, its sibilant tone cutting through the chaos.


    The ebony reflection of him stood at the side, watching Ricky struggle with an unreadable expression.


    Meanwhile, the Ebony Chalice danced around Ricky''s mind, its energy flowing like liquid, seemingly eager to be of service.


    Ricky''s eyes snapped open, now focused on the narrow margin of the vast, expansive realm of possibilities before him.


    With a concentrated thought, he cut off the overwhelming flow of options, forcing them into a small square, no more than twenty screens at a time.


    Each screen flickered with timelines, each one representing a different possibility, a different path and he observed them.


    He locked onto one particular screen, its contents drawing him in as if it held the key to everything.


    With a smooth, deliberate motion, Ricky reached out, his hand glowing with pure white energy.


    His fingers made contact with the screen, causing it to ripple, distorting the space before expanding into a vast movie theater-sized projection.


    The images unfolded in front of him, revealing layers of decisions, actions, and outcomes.


    As his green eyes flickered with an unnatural intensity, they shifted to pure white.


    The transformation was instantaneous and in an instant, the sovereign aura that had surrounded him, the thick, powerful shield that had protected him, vanished.


    It disappeared without a trace, leaving the guardsmen in stunned silence.


    They froze, caught completely off guard by the sudden shift in the battlefield.


    For the first time, Ricky felt an overwhelming sense of control.


    The possibilities were no longer scattered, chaotic fragments as he was the one shaping them now, and in that moment, everything seemed to bend to his will.


    Without having to materialize it.


    BOOM


    In the blink of an eye, Ricky erupted forward, his pyrokinesis violently propelling himself toward the shield wall of guardsmen.


    The force of his launch was so intense that the very air around him seemed to crackle, the power radiating outward like a shockwave.


    One of the guardsmen, panicked by the sudden surge, instinctively thrust his spear forward to intercept Ricky.


    But Ricky''s mind, now locked into a perfect flow of possibilities, was already several steps ahead.


    A screen, appearing like a digital overlay in front of him, displayed the trajectory of the spear in real time.


    Ricky tracked the weapon''s movement with pinpoint accuracy, observing how the blade was closing in.


    With precise, fluid motion, Ricky sidestepped the spear, his body moving as though it were part of the design.


    The weapon missed him by mere inches, its point grazing the air where he''d just been.


    In the same fluid movement, Ricky''s focus narrowed to the target before him as he plummeted into the group of guardsmen, his feet crashing into the ground with a force that sent the earth itself trembling.


    Without hesitation, Ricky''s hand surged forward, the Ebony Blade driving deep into the stomach of the closest guardsman.


    The blade tore through him like butter, slicing cleanly through the flesh with terrifying ease.


    The guardsman''s body crumpled as Ricky pulled the blade upward in a savage motion, splitting him in half.


    Blood exploded outward in a chaotic spray, splattering everything in its path as the guard''s torso slumped to the ground, lifeless.


    But before Ricky could even relish the moment, the remaining guardsmen moved swiftly to retaliate.


    Three spearheads spiraled through the air, each one aimed with deadly precision and without breaking his stride, Ricky swung his left arm outward, his body moving with fluidity as he didn''t even bother to look.


    CLANG


    The spears slammed into the Ebony Shield, sending sparks flying into the air.


    Without missing a beat, Ricky sliced through the gap between him and the three guardsmen, a red arc of electricity crackling through their bodies.


    In the next instant, their torsos were split clean in half, the force of the strike leaving only mangled corpses behind.


    CLANG


    A fourth spear came at him, but Ricky barely shifted his position, guiding the Ebony Shield downward with a subtle motion.


    The spear deflected with ease, but it wasn''t just the shield that felt different as there was an unexpected fluidity to his movements, smooth, just so effortless.


    For the first time in a long while, Ricky didn''t feel the familiar weight of clunky, disjointed combat.


    His strikes, his blocks, everything felt synchronized, natural.


    It wasn''t a struggle.


    It wasn''t about grinding out victories, clawing his way through the battle of people much more skill them him.


    Now, it felt like Ricky was dancing with the fight, his body and weapon moving in perfect harmony.


    He tasted what it truly meant to fight.


    And it was intoxicating.


    SPLAT


    SPLAT


    Blood splattered across the ground as Ricky''s movements flowed with unearthly grace.


    His strikes were seamless, each one a natural extension of his body, as if he were water, fluid, unstoppable.


    The more he absorbed the white aura, the sharper his focus became, his eyes glowing with an eerie whiteness as he honed in on the path he had chosen.


    But with every new step forward, the need to consume more of the aura grew stronger.


    Each moment of clarity required more of the energy to keep the momentum going as the hunger for it increased, but Ricky didn''t hesitate.


    He had never felt so in control of a battle before.


    The guardsmen, who had dedicated years to perfecting the art of the spear, now seemed like nothing more than puppets.


    Their movements were too slow, too predictable and Ricky could see their every intention before it even formed in their minds.


    They were training dummies, helpless against the unrelenting slashes of the Ebony Blade and Lady Roma, watching from the sidelines, could only bear witness in horror.


    Her magic had its limits.


    There were many things she could block, many ways she could amplify her power.


    But she couldn''t cut through the Ebony Blade and that realization sent a chill down her spine.


    Seeing the shift in their movements, Lady Roma quickly adapted, swiping her magic across the air with precision.


    Her spell transformed, converting her defensive aura into a physical enhancement that quadrupled the guardsmen''s speed.


    In an instant, the guardsmen reacted, leaping backward with impeccable coordination, barely evading Ricky''s oncoming strike.


    As Ricky swung the Ebony Blade forward, he realized, with a sinking feeling, that his target had already moved too far out of reach.


    The screens in his mind that had once laid the future out before him now seemed blurry and unreachable, drifting further and further from focus.


    He tried to inhale more of the white aura, desperate to hold onto the vision of what could have been, but it evaporated like smoke in his grasp.


    The possibility he had focused on was slipping through his fingers as his green irises flickered with frustration.


    The twenty guardsmen were retreating, falling back to Lady Roma''s side but just before the last of them could make their escape, Ricky''s ethereal hand shot out.


    In a swift motion, he yanked the nearest guardsman back toward him, pulling him from the safety of the group as the battle was far from over.


    "No longer human, magic," Ricky muttered under his breath, his ethereal arm glowing with a sharp blue light.


    It cut through the golden aura surrounding the struggling guardsman like a blade slicing through fabric, leaving the warrior feeling more fragile than a mere mortal caught in its grip.


    Because this ability had reduced him to just that, a man who had spent his whole life training and honing his magic, now was nothing more than a man.


    Lady Roma watched in horror, her mind momentarily paralyzed as she stood frozen, the overwhelming realization of her situation sinking in.


    Her magic was fading in the face of Ricky''s power, and for the first time, she found herself unsure of what to do next.


    "Aye, listen up, ''cause I''m only gonna say it once." Ricky''s voice snapped through the tense silence, harsh and commanding.


    His gaze locked onto Lady Roma, piercing and unyielding as he had enough of this drawn-out battle,


    "WHY WOULD WE LISTEN TO YOU, YOU ATTACKED US-" the Guardsmen captain roared, his voice full of defiance, only to be cut off by Ricky''s furious response.


    "THE F*CK, YOU ATTACKED ME FIRST!" Ricky bellowed, his sovereign aura surging outward, filling the space around him with a violent pressure while his eyes locked onto the captain.


    "I was relaxing, naked, with a busty babe, and all of a sudden, you just attacked the castle out of nowhere!" Ricky yelled, his frustration reaching its peak as he couldn''t believe the sheer ignorance of the situation, his words laced with disbelief as he waved his arms, as if to emphasize the absurdity of it all.


    "Even when I was standing right in front of you, F*CKING TALKING TO YOU, SWORD, ALL OF YOU ATTACKED ME, ME!" Ricky thumped his chest, his anger boiling over as he glared at them, his grip tightening around the struggling guard at his side.


    "Honestly, you lot piss me the f*ck off, but I''m gonna give you all one chance," Ricky spat, his voice seething with frustration as the Ebony Blade gleamed ominously in his other hand.


    "Either the easy way or the hard way-"


    "How-............ HOW DARE YOU!" Lady Roma screeched, her voice cracking with fury. Her eyes burned with seething anger as she fixed her gaze on Ricky.


    "YOU KILLED MY FATHER''S FACTION, YOU KILLED THE MEMBERS OF TEAM EXCALIBUR, YOU INVADE OTHERWORLD, AND NOW YOU TELL US TO SURRENDER!" Lady Roma''s entire body erupted in a maelstrom of magical energy, her aura flaring violently as she locked her gaze on Ricky, her fury palpable in the air as the magic around her pulsed like a storm waiting to unleash.


    "I WILL NEVER ALLOW-"


    CRACK


    The sickening snap of bones echoed through the air, cutting Lady Roma''s words short.


    The sound reverberated like thunder, and in an instant, the guardsmen''s necks was twisted with brutal precision.


    Thump


    Ricky tossed the limp body aside casually, his movements fluid and almost detached as it hit the ground with a dull thud.


    The remaining guards stared in stunned horror at the lifeless form, their faces a mix of fear and disbelief.


    With chilling calm, Ricky''s ethereal hand reached out, effortlessly pulling the ebony shield into his grasp as if it were the most natural thing in the world.


    "Alright, hard way it is,"

 Chapter 185 - 175: Lady Roma Part 2

    Chapter 185 - 175: Lady Roma Part 2


    "Alright, hard way it is," Ricky muttered, making up his mind as he wasn''t just going to raise the thirty guardsmen he''d already killed, he''d bring all fifty of them back as undead, then take Lady Roma hostage.


    "Lady Roma, we will buy you time. You must use it!" the Guardsmen captain declared, turning toward Ricky, actually aware that he would soon end up killing them all.


    "Y-You''ll die-"


    "IT''S AN HONOR!" the Guardsmen captain roared, charging toward his death as his fellow guardsmen pounded their chests.


    "TO SERVE!" they all bellowed in unison, charging forward after their captain.


    As fast as they had retreated, they now lunged toward their certain demise, and Ricky couldn''t help but laugh at the absurdity of it all.


    "YOU SHALL-"


    "Oh, save the theatrics and just f*cking BRING IT!" Ricky laughed, cutting off any potential monologues from the charging guardsmen.


    Without missing a beat, his ethereal arm reached into his own flesh, pulling out the Tungsten Blade and Venomous Fang Dagger.


    With a sudden burst of motion, Ricky lunged forward to meet their charge head-on.


    A sharp pain in his nose caused a steady trickle of blood to fall, the aftereffect of inhaling the Ebony Chalice''s aura.


    But he ignored it, realizing that focusing on the fading reality would only waste time as he was done messing around, he was going to kill them all.


    While their mastery of the spear greatly outmatched his own swordsmanship, Ricky made up for it by thinking outside the box, using his barriers creatively to stay one step ahead.


    "ARGH!" A guardsman grunted as his face slammed into a square barrier, placed just in time by Ricky.


    Instead of using the barriers as a single shield, Ricky began to minimize them, creating immovable objects around the guardsmen, funneling them into a twisted maze and making their movements feel constricted.


    SPLAT


    With only Ricky able to see the path ahead, the guardsmen felt an overwhelming sense of claustrophobia in the open space.


    They scrambled to block his relentless attacks but only felt cluttered together even when spaced apart all while each blow cut through their defenses with terrifying precision.


    One by one, Ricky shredded through them, cutting them down with the precision and cruelty of a butcher carving through meat.


    Each guardsmen that stepped into his path fell, their bodies crumpling to the ground like sacks of flesh, their lives snuffed out in an instant.


    It was as if Ricky had become a blur of motion, a force of nature.


    His once passive barriers morphed into offensive tools, slamming into the bodies of the guardsmen with bone-crushing force.


    Each impact sent them stumbling, dazed and disoriented, as if the very air around them was weaponized by Ricky''s will.


    No longer relying on brute force alone, his abilities now danced in perfect harmony with the Ebony Blade.


    The two became an inseparable force, cutting through the battlefield like a storm ripping through an open field.


    Ricky moved effortlessly between the guardsmen, his blade slicing through their flesh with deadly precision, while his barriers pushed them back, breaking their attempts to counterattack and regroup.


    They were trapped in his relentless assault, funneling into a one-sided slaughter.


    Where once Ricky might have relied solely on his blade, now this new understanding of his barriers amplified each strike, turning them into devastating weapons in their own right.


    The more he used his power, the more fierce he became and every movement, every slash, felt more brutal, more fluid, as if he was feeding off the very chaos he created.


    The Ebony Blade, too, responded, its hunger for destruction growing with each swing, as if it thrived on the bloodshed and violence Ricky unleashed against this woman that dared compare it to Excalibur.


    "YES, RICKY! DESTROY HER ARMY! MAKE HER PAY FOR HER WORDS!" The voice of the blade roared in his mind, its fervor growing with every enemy he cut down.


    It bounced in excitement, urging him onward as Ricky carved through the guards, his siblings standing off to the side, their gazes weirded out except the Ebony Chalice who was excited watching the show throughout the spectrum.


    "DESTROY EVERYTHING SHE LOVES!" The Ebony Blade''s fury was deafening, its anger at Lady Roma''s words pushing Ricky forward, the desire for vengeance now an unstoppable force.


    Amidst the carnage, Lady Roma''s voice broke through the madness, a quiet mutter under her breath.


    Slowly, she raised her hands, palms open as if offering a prayer to the heavens, or perhaps something darker.


    A pulse of energy surged from her, and behind them, a blinding light erupted with an otherworldly force, crackling through the air like a divine judgment.


    The light felt like a tangible force, reverberating across the battlefield, its power undeniable.


    The remaining guardsmen understood the gravity of the situation and instead of retreating, they charged at Ricky together, knowing they would fall before him.


    Their resolve was clear and they were willing to sacrifice everything to protect their cause, even their lives.


    They knew this was the crucial moment of the spell, and without hesitation, they threw themselves in front of Ricky, blocking his line of sight to Lady Roma while willingly throwing themselves towards the slaughter.


    Their bodies fell one after another, blood pouring from their wounds as they piled upon each other in a desperate attempt to shield her from his fury.


    The guardsmen captain, the last one standing, threw himself forward, aiming to halt Ricky''s strike.


    The ebony blade pierced into his stomach but instead of finishing the swing, the captain forced Ricky''s arm to stay steady, his muscles trembling as he anchored the blade downward, marking this moment as his final act of defiance.


    "What the fu-" Ricky muttered, stunned, as he watched the captain impale himself on the sword.


    But before he could process what was happening, he was interrupted by the most beautiful light he''d ever seen.


    Lady Roma, her hands raised high, held the light in the air as it radiated pure white beams, blinding in its brilliance.


    The guardsman captain, desperate to stop Ricky, struggled in vain, but before he could react, Ricky''s ethereal arms lunged at him like the pincers of a scorpion, striking with deadly precision.


    SPLAT


    The guardsman captain''s eyes widened in terror as the Tungsten Blade and dagger tore into his flesh, slicing him clean in two. Blood sprayed, but despite the agony, a twisted smile curled on his lips.


    As the life drained from him, he heard faint, echoing words in his mind, words that gave him a strange sense of peace in his final moments.


    "Celestial Art: Dying Star!" Lady Roma''s voice echoed, her spell coming to life with a surge of energy that sent a chilling wave through the air.


    Ricky''s danger sense, which had remained eerily quiet until now, screamed in his mind the moment he locked eyes with the spell.


    But instead of immediately countering, instead of forming a barrier to crush the spell in its tracks, Ricky found himself gripped by something different.


    A surge of anticipation flooded through him as he didn''t want to just stop it, he wanted to push himself.


    For the first time, Ricky felt a rush of excitement at the thought of testing the limits of his power.


    This wasn''t about simple survival, he wanted to see just how far his enhanced barriers could stretch, how far he could push them before they broke.


    Even with Chastiefol looming behind Lady Roma, a threat like no other, Ricky''s mind was locked on one thing: his barrier.


    This was his first power, the one he had taken for granted for so long, and now, it was time to see if it could stand up to the challenge.


    He felt the weight of the moment, a mix of determination and thrill, he didn''t just want to win, he wanted to improve.


    The Dying Star, its immense power funneling a stream of danger directly into Ricky''s mind, began to rise from Lady Roma''s outstretched hands.


    It was breathtaking, magnificent, like a distant star twinkling in the night sky, before it suddenly imploded on itself.


    For a fleeting moment, space itself seemed to twist, contorting as if the fabric of reality was bending under the spell''s weight.


    Then, without warning, that twisted energy exploded outward, sending the full force of the Dying Star surging toward Ricky.


    The air around him crackled, the white-hot light searing everything in its path as the intensity was unimaginable as the energy cascaded down on Ricky like a divine torrent.


    Blood trickled down his nose and eyes, his body feeling like it was being torn apart by the overwhelming purity of the spell.


    But still, he pushed forward, forcing his green barrier to expand, meeting the overwhelming light with all his might.


    "COME ON!" Ricky''s roar ripped through the chaos, his own energy surging to meet the blinding purity of the Dying Star.


    His green aura clashed with the white light, an animalistic force fighting against a godly one, as the two powers collided, their energies rippling out in a violent shockwave.


    THOOOOOOOOOOM


    The collision of the two energies unleashed a shockwave so powerful it sent Lady Roma flying backward like a ragdoll.


    She tumbled through the air, crashing violently into the ground, her body skidding to a halt.


    Dazed, Lady Roma slowly lifted her head, her eyes scanning the wasteland before her.


    Her breath hitched as she searched desperately, but there was no sign of Ricky as her eyes stung with the realization of her victory, yet it came at a brutal cost.


    "I''m sorry, I''m so sorry~" Lady Roma cried, her voice trembling as tears welled up in her eyes.


    She wasn''t celebrating her victory; instead, she was consumed by a deep sorrow, mourning the heavy cost of it all.


    So many had sacrificed for this moment, and now, as she gazed at the aftermath, she wished more than anything that it hadn''t come to this, that she hadn''t needed to give up so much to stop it.


    She gripped the ground beneath her, the weight of her loss anchoring her in place as the tears sprinkled onto the ground beneath her.


    "I''m sorry-"


    ''HOW DARE YOU USE MY POWER!''


    "Relax~" Ricky''s breath heaved as he stood, his voice cutting through the tension and Lady Roma, once overcome with sorrow, froze in an instant.


    ''YOU USED MY NOBLE BLOCKING POWER TO-''


    "Oh, stop your damn whining." Ricky interrupted, his tone sharp and dismissive, sounding out in the billowing heep of smoke.


    "I said I wouldn''t use you against Merlyn, not his asshole of a daughter." Ricky sighed, signaling that he was, in fact, very much alive, despite what she might have believed.


    The spell of the dying star had scorched the very earth around Ricky, reducing the ground beneath him to ash.


    The patch he had been standing on melted away, leaving him perched atop a small, dirt pedestal in the midst of a vast, charred crater.


    Ricky, to his own surprise, felt like he could have endured it but when the two energies collided in an explosion of power, his barrier faltered, and he was forced to use the Ebony Shield to shield himself from the full force of the blast.


    Smoke billowed from the crater, curling up into the air and to Lady Roma''s horror, Ricky emerged, virtually unscathed.


    The only real sign of damage was the black blood dripping from his eye and nose, which he wiped away with a swipe of his sleeve.


    "H-How-" Lady Roma stuttered, her voice faltering as Ricky flicked his hand towards her.


    In an instant, Chastiefol''s first form materialized, its massive green limbs wrapping around her with terrifying speed.


    Before she could react, all four of her limbs were seized by the enchanted weapon''s physical form of a teddy bear, holding her in place as she struggled violently.


    "No, NO! HOW DID YOU SURVIVE?!" Lady Roma screamed, her voice breaking as tears streamed down her face.


    She strained against the grip, but Ricky remained calm, flicking some dust off his shoulder nonchalantly, as if unaffected by everything that had just transpired.


    "I''ll give it to you, those spells trump Dracula''s, but you''re gonna need a little more kick at the end to really kill me," Ricky lectured, stepping closer to Lady Roma as he dismissed the fight as he wasn''t interested in continuing, he was done with her.


    "You''re not the man I thought you were." Lady Roma cried, her tone dejected at the mere thought that Ricky could be a hero.


    "You ain''t the first chick to ever tell me that." Ricky said, shrugging at her misplaced trust as he turned his back to her.


    "And you won''t be the last." Ricky muttered as his gaze swept across the battlefield, taking in the devastation he had caused, a disappointed frown tugging at his lips.


    It wasn''t because he regretted the carnage, no. It was the stark absence of one particular being that gnawed at him.


    Something, or someone, was missing from the chaos.


    "Man, Alexander would''ve loved this." Ricky sighed, scratched the back of his neck while sheathing the Ebony Blade who watched Lady Roma start to sob with a contentful smile.


    Morgana stood in the background, her lips curling into a dreamy smile as she watched Ricky.


    Her claim to the throne was materializing before her eyes in the form of the man she had obsessively admired.


    As Ricky turned to her, his cocky grin meeting her gaze, she couldn''t help but bask in the moment.


    "What''d you think of that?" Ricky asked, winking at her and flexing his arm as he knew it was cheesy, but he didn''t care, he was enjoying the moment.


    "10/10, you were marvelous," Morgana replied, her voice dripping with admiration but it was impossible to tell if it was genuine or fake.


    "You know how I do," Ricky laughed, slicking his hair back, clearly pleased by the compliment.


    Meanwhile, Merlyn stood in the background, his eyes burning with rage as he watched Ricky through his crystal, still in the midst of his little celebratory dance.


    The old man''s fingers gripped the wooden table with such force that his knuckles turned white with fury.


    Despite the fire building within him, he remained seated, his eyes narrowing into daggers as he watched the scene unfold before him.


    Then, Morgana slowly turned toward the crystal ball, a wicked smile spreading across her face. She seemed to peer through it, recognizing something, before swiping her hand through the air.


    BAM


    Lady Roma''s head jerked to the side, a powerful force slamming against her cheek.


    She crumpled unconscious, still maintaining direct eye contact with Merlyn through the crystal ball and Morgana waved at him with a mocking smirk before snapping her fingers.


    Snap


    The crystal ball dimmed, and Merlyn''s eyes clouded over, darkness swallowing them as Morgana''s message became clear, she had his daughter.


    The world around him seemed to vanish as the whites of his eyes seemed to be consumed by a void black.


    Gazing towards the side, he saw the orb monitoring the chimera horde that, in his haste, split into almost a couple different waves before he turned back to the dimmed orb.


    "Stupid girl," Merlyn muttered, his voice laced with an attempt at disdain but as the words left his mouth, he faltered, his eyes dropping in defeat.


    There was no real anger in his tone, only the weight of something darker, something he couldn''t quite name but only realized now.


    "You stupid girl."


    "Hahahahahahaha!" Morgana''s laughter rang out from the terrace, her voice bright and unrestrained as Ricky stood frozen, eyes wide at the sight of the unconscious Lady Roma.


    "Woah, chick fight," Ricky commented, turning toward Morgana, who was still laughing, a sense of therapeutic relief in her voice as she caught his gaze, pausing for a moment.


    "What? I''ve got a lot of misplaced anger toward her father. Can you really blame me?" Morgana asked, tilting her head slightly, a playful spark in her eyes.


    "Nah, I kinda understand," Ricky said, looking around as Morgana noticed it once again before leaning in closer.


    Morgana noticed his distracted look, the way his attention shifted, and with a sly smile, she leaned in closer, sensing the subtle tension between them.


    "Is something the matter? I thought you''d continue your cute little celebration~" Morgana teased slightly, watching Ricky unbothered as he shook his head.


    "I''m just a little shocked Alexander didn''t come running out here with that sh*tty donkey at the first signs of a battle."


    Meanwhile In Castle Le Fey,


    The ground trembled from the force of the battle outside, but instead of Alexander rushing toward it, he remained sulking, lost in thoughts of memories that hadn''t haunted him in the same way until he first entered that valley.


    Click


    Click


    Click


    The sound of hooves echoed through the hall as the mighty steed, Bucephalus, slowly made his way toward Alexander, stopping before him.


    "Do not look at me in such a way, Bucephalus." Alexander turned away, but the horse continued to gaze at him, unblinking, with a steady, knowing look, in that way.


    "She''s here, she''s back." Alexander murmured the words that had tormented his thoughts, and Bucephalus slowly lowered his head, as if understanding exactly who he was speaking about.


    "I thought-....I thought I could live a life without her intervention," Alexander continued, chuckling bitterly as if the idea was laughable from the start as his paws clenched together tightly.


    "But it seems I was foolish to think so." Alexander''s voice trailed off, eyes downcast in self-doubt.


    "Maybe it was my hope, my dream, that I could escape the fates, but it seems history is doomed to repeat itself." Alexander''s words hung in the air, heavy with resignation.


    Bucephalus, in response, took a slow step forward and stared at him, his large eyes reflecting a strange, knowing intensity that made Alexander pause.


    It was in that moment that a rising sensation stirred within his chest, something he hadn''t felt in a long time, weakness.


    He slowly gripped the fur on his chest, his fingers digging into it as he realized the depth of it.


    The weight of the weakness from his past had crept back into him, consuming him without warning, like a silent tide.


    Bucephalus remained still, his silence as profound as ever.


    But there was something in his unwavering gaze, something beyond just a look.


    That stare spoke a thousand words of encouragement, a silent urging that rekindled the fire within Alexander''s soul.


    It was then that Alexander''s desire to conquer surged once more, as if Bucephalus had reignited a spark long buried beneath the ashes of self-doubt.


    To conquer that feeling, the feeling of being small, the crippling fear that had haunted him for so long, the same fear that had brought him to the brink of his own death.


    Alexander''s heart pounded as he straightened himself, finally embracing the strength he''d forgotten as his past would no longer define him because that''s all it was, the past.


    Alexander would do what he has always done before, he would rise above it.


    "You''re right, what was I thinking?" Alexander slowly muttered, pushing himself to his feet. Bucephalus, with a quiet nod of approval, stood patiently beside him.


    Without hesitation, Alexander rushed forward, leaping onto Bucephalus''s back with practiced ease.


    He settled into the saddle, a triumphant glint flashing in his eyes as he straightened himself.


    "ONWARD, FOR I MUST ASSIST RICKY!" Alexander bellowed, his voice carrying across the vast castle grounds as Bucephalus responded with a fierce neigh, his muscles rippling with excitement.


    "FOR OUTSIDE THESE WALLS STANDS A BATTLE, AND I, ALEXANDER THE GREAT, NEVER RUN AWAY FROM A FIGHT, UNLESS IT''S TO CATCH MY ENEMY OFF GUARD, THEN CHARGE RIGHT BACK IN!" Alexander words ignited Bucephalus''s fury, the mighty steed stomping his hooves against the stone floor, shaking the ground beneath them. The sheer force of his stomps cracked the stone, the sound of it echoing like a thunderclap.


    "CHARGE!"


    BOOM


    The walls of the castle couldn''t withstand the might of Alexander''s steed, Bucephalus, as the mighty horse charged forward, smashing through the barriers that dared to stand in his way.


    With a powerful thrust, Bucephalus broke through the entrance, kicking up debris as he posed triumphantly at the opening as Alexander, feeling the momentum, scrambled up to the steed''s snout.


    "DO NOT FEAR RICKY, FOR I AM-......here?" Alexander roared, ready to charge into battle.


    But his confidence faltered as he took in the scene before him: Ricky, casually tossing dead bodies of the guards into a pile, with Chuck and Boeny helping.


    "You took too long, man. I already kicked ass," Ricky sighed, wiping his hands on his pants as he finished the last of the grim work.


    "But I-.....I was having a moment of reflection." Alexander started, looking genuinely wronged that he missed an opportunity to fight in a glorious battle.


    "Wait, woah, listen, they just showed up here and-"


    "Oh, I see," Alexander muttered, plopping down on Bucephalus''s snout as the horse glared at Ricky, showing the hatred for his rider.


    "Oh come on Alexander, it ain''t like that-"


    "No, I understand," Alexander muttered, turning his head away. Bucephalus seemed to understand, and he began to walk off to the side.


    "Come on, Alexander! ALEXANDER!" Ricky shouted, watching as the battle-hungry gerbil would go hungry this evening.


    "F*ck," Ricky muttered, facepalming, remembering how he''d promised to fight alongside Alexander, but forgot literally everything when Lady Roma said she was the daughter of Merlyn.


    "God dammit, get up."


    DING


    Author''s Note: Just wanted to say that I''m gonna be shortening the words and prolonging the chaps for the specific reason that I''m just not really enjoying writing this story as I once did. Don''t get me wrong it''s fun but man it went from a hobby to a chore. I ain''t gonna give it up cause I feel like it will be worthless since I invested all this time, pouring my hours into this f*cking story, just to quit and I feel like I''ve built a solid audience that just enjoys my writing and I don''t wanna give that up either. But f**********ck I do not enjoy this sh*t the same way I used to. It''s like i have to drag myself to my google doc and type away like I''m some slave. Ik that it''s a bummer cause it''s just way more satisfying to read all of it in one chap but it was either this or just quit. Honeslty, the real reason I''m still going cause of pure spite cause I feel like if I just drop it I''ll be no better than the people who pissed me off to start writing in the first place. I''ll also probs like put more chaps but the minium will be 4 and the max will be like everday, idk yet, I wanna try it out.


    Author''s Note 2: yall in webnovel ain''t gonna see it yet, this is like five chaps ahead and I ain''t gonna be a douche and start breaking it up for you guys if I didn''t for hte ones on patreon. I ain''t a f*cking monster like some people.

 Chapter 186 - 176: The Calm Before The Storm, Again.

    Chapter 186 - 176: The Calm Before The Storm, Again.


    As the sun slowly rose into the sky, its golden light washed over the lush green expanse of Avalon, painting the land in a serene glow.


    The rolling fields seemed to just stretch endlessly, vibrant and full of life, while Camelot stood at the heart of it all, a gleaming jewel cradled by nature.


    The towering trees that stretched like a line over this expanse seemingly mark the kingdom''s borders, swaying gently, their leaves rustling like whispered secrets in the wind.


    But on this seemingly ordinary day, the morning light did not merely reveal its golden shades of beauty.


    It awakened something else.


    Not under the veil of night, where the shadows creeped and figures prowled in secrecy, no, this time, the monsters rose with the morning sun.


    From the depths of the dirt, from the cracks in the earth, from the places men dare not tread, but were buried.


    Twisted forms, unseen horrors, rose up from the ground in which the bodies of the damned were buried, all beneath the dawn''s gentle embrace.


    Because on this golden morning, the sun did not bring its usual peace.


    It beckoned towards a slaughter, it beckoned towards the hunt.


    Those writhing forms, those monstrous abominations, were none other than the vanguard of the Chimera horde, hastened forth by Merlyn''s hand.


    Their grotesque masses split into relentless waves, a tide of horrors stampeding across the rolling fields beneath the golden sky.


    The earth trembled beneath their charge, their numbers stretching far and wide, surging toward the ancient line of trees that marked the kingdom''s borders.


    And upon the horizon, towering over the departing storm, six horrid knights sat atop the rolling hills as their steeds rotted with the wind.


    Their armor was corroded and blackened, bearing the scars of countless massacres.


    Their sunken eyes gleamed with the only relief the damned could ever lust for, the screams of their victims.


    DING


    (Legendary Undead) Death Knight (Guard Captain): A once-great warrior, now an undead commander bound by eternal duty. Clad in tattered yet resilient armor, his presence alone chills the battlefield, radiating an aura of dread and command. His spectral helm conceals a hollow, burning gaze that sees beyond the mortal realm.


    Abilities:


    Gravebound Spear: His weapon is imbued with necrotic energy, allowing him to summon it back to his hand if disarmed. When thrown, it erupts into shadowy tendrils that briefly bind foes in spectral chains.


    Corrupting Touch: Any attack inflicted or taken by a Wraith Knight has a chance to corrupt the soul of the attacker or victim. This corruption weakens their will, making them more susceptible to control, sapping their strength, or even twisting them into undead servants if left unchecked.


    (Epic Undead) Wraith Knights (Spearbearers): The 49 Wraith Knights are elite spectral warriors, remnants of once-loyal guardsmen now bound to eternal service. Each moves with deadly grace and silent discipline, their long, shadowforged spears piercing through both armor and soul. They do not speak, but their hollow eyes burn with spectral intensity, reflecting a fragment of the battlefield''s horrors. X 49


    The knights formed from their original flesh in a really cool, descriptive way, but Ricky couldn''t be bothered to care, he''d seen it all before, and it was getting a little old.


    The thing that tore his mind away was Alexander''s departing figure on Bucephalus, knowing he really needed a win as ever since this whole Merlyn ordeal began, the gerbil had been a little off.


    "Man, if only I had a commander to just go nuts with this group of experienced death knights, just f*cking charging forward into battle, with the only thing promised to them being the glory of victory." Ricky said with a sigh, casually tossing out the bait while using Alexander''s lingo to cast it out and waiting as it dangled in the open.


    Clop


    Clop


    Clop


    Slowly, Bucephalus clopped back into frame, Alexander perched on his nose in a pondering position but turned away as if uncaring towards Ricky.


    "I mean, I wanna do it, but I just suck at commanding," Ricky sighed, shaking his head, really selling the act.


    Bucephalus nudged forward, and with him, Alexander drifted right back into place beside Ricky, a horse''s head slowly moving over his shoulder with the gerbil slowly being turned towards him.


    "I heard tell you were looking for a commander?" Alexander coughed, looking almost unenthused while scooting closer to Ricky.


    "Yeah, I just don''t know if I could even lead these undead into battle without a horse-"


    "Say no more, I''ll take it from here." Alexander immediately declared, his furry chest puffing out as Ricky gestured for him to take the lead with a smirk.


    "Do your thing." Ricky laughed, holding up his hands as if giving the floor to Alexander as he slowly backed away.


    "ATTENTION!" Alexander roared, his voice booming as his mighty gerbil fist clenched the straws of fate and yanked them back.


    The undead all snapped to attention, their lifeless forms standing rigid as they received the mental orders from Ricky to listen to the small, yet imposing, gerbil.


    Alexander raised his gaze to them, the weight of his newfound command settling over the battlefield as his mopey attitude washed away as his commander''s title was once again adorned onto his mighty form.


    "I know what you''re thinking." Alexander continued, his voice resonating with a calm authority that rang out across the silent field.


    "And I know that all of you, even myself at one point, believed that a life only came with one death." Alexander paused, letting the weight of his words sink in, before adding.


    "And yet, here you stand before me."


    "Words could try to describe such realities." Alexander went on, his voice low and steady, seemingly putting himself on the same plain as these undead.


    "But even if they could, even if it were written with the ink of my blood and the quill of your bones, the truth remains: death is not the end." Alexander paused, his gaze sharpening as he looked out over his undead army.


    "It is your new beginning,"


    "Even the fates themselves couldn''t understand how we''ve been called back from the void, not to rot in the shadows of our graves, but to conquer once more!" Alexander declared, his words carrying the weight of something ancient and unyielding that shook the very bones of the warriors in front of them


    "We are defiers of fate!"


    "We were set to die, defy."


    "We were fated to rot, fight."


    "We were supposed to perish, thrive."


    "And we were all abandoned by death."


    "Reborn." Alexander preached, he spoke not just to their ears, but to the very wisps of their souls.


    He didn''t merely understand them, he had been them.


    Thrust into a body he never asked for, by the side of a man he didn''t choose, but even though he had been thrust into the body of a gerbil, even if others looked at him as a mere rodent, he was no less than Alexander the Great.


    And now, in this second chance at life, he had risen once again to lead.


    To lead them.


    "SO NOW I ASK OF YOU, WHO AMONG YOU WILL FALTER?" Alexander raised his voice, igniting the embers within their skulls and hearts, the sound of their bones clanking in unity.


    "WHO AMONG YOU WILL ALLOW THEMSELVES TO BE WHISKED AWAY LIKE MERE SAND INTO THE ANNALS OF TIME?!" Alexander asked, almost pleading for one of them to step forward, to defy his command, yet they only responded with the eerie chattering of their skulls in reverence.


    "NONE OF YOU, FOR I AM HERE!" Alexander thumped his chest, the sound echoing like the beat of a war drum, filling the air with unyielding force.


    "FOR I WILL NEVER ALLOW YOU TO REST UNTIL THE WORLD KNOWS OUR TALES, UNTIL THEY FEEL THE DREAD FROM THE VERY RUNES THAT SPELL IT OUT!" Alexander roared, holding his tiny spear into the air as the undead all followed in suite.


    "HAZZAY!"


    Ding


    [Do you wish to entrust these undead servants to your familiar Alexander the Gerbil?]


    [Yes/No]


    Ricky stared at the screen in surprise, not knowing this was even an option as he turned to Alexander, whose reinvigorated expression was enough to make him grin.


    It was ridiculous that this was all it took to make Alexander happy, but somehow, it was fitting.


    Even when he was a human, Alexander was always a very emotional and passionate man, utterly lacking temperance and moderation.


    If he felt something, he embraced it fully.


    If he commanded, he did so with unwavering conviction.


    That was simply who Alexander was, a man who never held back, never diluted himself for the sake of others.


    And that, more than anything, was what Ricky liked about him because no matter what, Alexander had never pretended to be anything other than himself, his friend.


    ''Yes.''


    DING


    [1st Legion Created]


    Commander: Alexander The Gerbil


    Vice-Commander: Bucephalus


    Squad Captain: (Legendary Undead) Death Knight


    Soldiers:


    (Epic Undead) Wraith Knights (Spearbearers) x 49


    Ricky felt his connection with the undead, but instead of having to constantly issue orders like they were mindless automatons, something had changed.


    The link remained, yet it no longer demanded his every thought, it was as if Alexander''s command had woven into the very fabric of their existence.


    For the first time, Ricky realized he didn''t have to micromanage them as they stood, they waited, and when Alexander spoke, they listened.


    ''This is pretty cool-''


    "Ricky, RICKY!" Asterion shouted from atop the castle, wearing a shower cap and a towel wrapped around his waist.


    "WHAT?!" Ricky snapped, turning to see Asterion holding a scrubber in one hand and a loofah in the other.


    "Are we leaving right this second, or do we have time for a shower?" Asterion called down from a bathroom window, genuinely curious as Ricky stared at him with a deadpan expression.


    Sniff


    Ricky was about to say something demeaning, only to catch a whiff of the air of the distinct stench of the undead as he paused, sniffed his own armpit, and immediately recoiled.


    "Yeah, we got time!" Ricky suddenly said, his words making Asterion smile as he turned back to the running shower.


    "Who knew you could reek of death and sex," Ricky muttered to himself, glancing up at Morgana as she met his gaze with a knowing smile, her fingers slowly undoing the knot of her robe.


    Turning away, she let the fabric slip off her shoulders, cascading down her back like silk and just before stepping into the bathroom, she cast him one last look.


    Without hesitation, Ricky summoned a staircase construct, tossing the ebony artifacts into the room as he bolted into the bathroom after her.


    ''Disgusting.'' The Ebony Crown scoffed from the side, its voice laced with contempt since it believed no two races should mix, especially not with filthy halflings.


    ''Do you all feel a tingle?'' the Ebony Chalice suddenly murmured, its tone uncertain as the other artifacts turned to him with mortified expressions.


    ''A what?''


    30 minutes later,


    Clap


    "Ah~"


    Clap


    "Ah!"


    Clap


    "AH!"


    As the shower poured down, the fog from the hot water clouded the glass pane within the shower as two silhouettes were vibrant.


    Morgana pressed into the glass, her tits squishing into them as one of her hands was pressed by Ricky''s hand, the other holding his waist that yanked her down, thrusting all that he was deep inside of her, over and over again.


    Morgana''s head tipped back, a sharp breath escaping her lips as she gritted her teeth.


    Her eyes fluttered, rolling back before settling against the curve of Ricky''s shoulder, her body momentarily trembling from the sensation before Ricky overwhelmed her further.


    CLAP


    With one, all endowing thrust, Ricky collided his hips into her plump ass, the sensation causing her very flesh to vibrate from the force before a warm stream erupted into her being.


    His balls endlessly churned out long thick ropes of his cum, endlessly dumping it into her being as her pink walls slathered in his white essence.


    "That''s the stuff~" Ricky muttered, placing his forehead on her shoulder while letting a chuckle escape as the sensation washed over him like the water above, letting it stream all across their bodies.


    Pressing a lingering kiss to her shoulder, Ricky felt Morgana shudder beneath his touch as a slow breath escaped her lips as clarity returned to her gaze.


    With a soft sigh, she reached out, patting his head, her fingers threading briefly through his wet hair.


    The warmth of the water still clung to their skin as they gradually turned off the flow, the steam curling around them in the quiet aftermath.


    Pressing a lingering kiss to his cheek, Morgana''s fingers trailed to the back of his head, giving it two gentle pats before she slowly, deliberately disengaged from him.


    A tremor ran through her as she stepped forward, her movements unhurried, each shift of her body savoring the lingering sensation between them.


    Unimpaling herself, his cum slowly streaked down her thighs before she sat down on the toilet to clean herself up.


    "Truly an animal." Morgana chuckled, watching Ricky lean on the shower door, enjoying the show before he lugged himself forward towards the mirror.


    "Do you gotta tooth-"


    Snap


    Without even needing to finish his sentence, Morgana snapped her fingers, and with a soft shimmer of magic, a toothbrush and a tube of toothpaste materialized in midair.


    They hovered for a moment before gently settling into Ricky''s waiting hands, the bristles already coated with a perfect swirl of paste.


    "Sweet." Ricky muttered, scratching the bristles against his teeth while brushing, looking at Morgana slowly cleaning herself off.


    Spit


    "So, hey, you wanna grab some grub before setting off for a can of whoop ass?" Ricky asked, spitting some of the toothpaste into the sink.


    "Of course, everyone''s probably already in the dining hall." Morgana chuckled as if it was obvious, watching Ricky have a realization at that remark.


    "Oh yeah, I forget these places have those."


    10 minutes later,


    Within the foreboding Castle Le Fey was a rather lovely dining hall, unlike the pale ghostly attire on its outside, the vast area spoke of a rich aura that welcomed those to sit down and enjoy.


    The air carried the mingling scents of herbs, roasted meats, and a lingering hint of something more arcane.


    Rows of long, sturdy wooden tables filled the expanse of the hall, their surfaces laden with platters upon platters of food while steaming plump bread, thick slabs of bacon glistening with fat, eggs scrambled with fragrant herbs, and fresh fruit both mundane and otherworldly.


    Goblets brimmed with dark mead and spiced wine, their scents blending with the ever-present aroma of incense that wafted through the chamber.


    The coven dined in murmurs and laughter since they all knew that they would eventually throw their life on the line, they wanted to have one last final meal before it was time to risk it all.


    Surveying it all was a long stretch of table, perched above the rest and meant to serve as the dining space for medieval lords, which also happened to seat Ricky.


    Tearing into a roasted duck leg, caught earlier that morning by Morgana''s undead servants, he paid no mind to the beautiful sorceress at his side.


    Instead, his eyes were fixed on a large map plastered along this high perched table, its terrain inked in careful detail, depicting the very lands they sat upon: Otherworld, Avalon.


    Ricky was lazily gazing at it, really more into this roasted duck then anything as this was his third serving of it.


    ''Man, I gotta ask Morgana to like, give me this recipe or something-........if there even is one.'' Ricky thought, tearing his teeth away from the meat to get a better look at it, only to realize it was just a plain roast.


    No golden crust, no visible herbs, not even a hint of seasoning and yet, it tasted so goddamn good.


    While Ricky was having his little revelation about how the undead could master and perfect such a craft, Alexander studied the map.


    He rubbed his furry chin, pacing slowly around it, absorbing its details with an almost immediate understanding.


    The two coven elders, Cedric and Eldric, sat on the other side of the table, across from the rest.


    Meanwhile, Asteiron sat at the side, his plate stacked high with roasted meat with Ricky but unlike the barbarians tearing into their food with his hands, he cut into his meal with a fork and knife, savoring each bite with refined delight.


    "Should we not at least wait and-" Cedric began, his tone carrying a hint of hesitation, as if trying to dissuade the advance and Ricky, mouth full, scoffed.


    "We''ve waited way too long and the last time we just sat around waiting, he sent a f*cking chimera to my shores." Ricky sighed, cutting Cedric off with a shake of his head.


    "We''re kicking his ass today, that''s final," Ricky muttered, knowing damn well there''d be some bullsh*t as he could almost feel a foreboding tingling in the deepest regions of his nuts.


    Snap


    Ricky tore off another leg from the roasted duck, signaling that was the end of that train of thought as Morgana took the opportunity and initiative to slowly trace a line from Castle Le Fey down toward Camelot.


    "The portals through which we will proceed begin here, my castle, Le Fey, in my lands of Gorre, all the way to here," Morgana said slowly, her black nail gliding across the table.


    But she didn''t stop at Camelot and instead, her fingertip came to rest at the treeline in front of it.


    Ricky''s eyes flicked over the map, keeping up with what was being said, until his brows scrunched when Morgana''s finger stopped short of the city.


    "Uh, you mean here?" Ricky asked, wiping his hands on his shirt before slowly nudging her finger toward the spot labeled Camelot.


    But Morgana simply dragged her finger back, stopping once again just before the treeline.


    "Unfortunately-"


    "No."


    "There is a-"


    "No."


    "Ricky."


    "No, what the hell?" Ricky interrupted, pressing his finger firmly on Camelot.


    "I got you out of the castle, and then we were supposed to attack Camelot. That was the plan, let''s stick to that plan." Ricky said, knowing to trust that tingle within his balls as Morgana simply chuckled at his forwardness.


    "Yes, Ricky but we can''t teleport right into there." Morgana said, prompting her sentence short to leave it hanging just in case he wanted to interrupt her or chim in.


    "Fine, why not," Ricky scoffed, pinching the bridge of his nose.


    Though none of them had been to Camelot, everyone, including the elders, assumed that Morgana should''ve been there before, especially to open a magic portal which is why it wasn''t Ricky who shared this same mentality but the rest, excluding Asterion who was savoring his bite of roasted duck.


    "Ricky, you have to understand that opening one portal to another isn''t merely cutting a hole through space, but casting a straight line," Morgana explained, her finger glowing with a purposeful hue to demonstrate.


    With her magic, she drew a line all the way toward the treeline, which faintly pulsed with light, signaling that the connection held.


    "But do you see this treeline, the one that happens to form a subtle ring around Camelot?" Morgana continued, her tone shifting into a question and prompting it towards him.


    "Uh, yeah," Ricky muttered, his gaze fixed on the treeline, which he suddenly realized formed a large, ugly circle around Camelot, but not the entirety of Avalon.


    "This treeline acts as a sort of natural barrier," Morgana explained, showing rather than just telling as she drifted her finger across the forest.


    Instead of a glowing straight line, the light began to wobble and dim, flickering like a weakening connection.


    "Although it is not a traditional barrier, it acts as one because its properties warp and wave the magical energies around it." Morgana continued, trying to explain the properties that usually fell in line with most areas within Otherworld.


    "Even I have trouble using magic within the forest, but even so, even if there wasn''t this natural barrier here." Morgana trailed off, her gaze distant as if considering something deeper.


    "Even if I could cast a magic portal into Camelot, Merlyn has stacked wards upon wards over the centuries, constantly improving them and casting barriers that would never allow for such an intrusion, even by my hand," Morgana explained, her tone laced with frustration at something being out of her reach.


    Sigh


    "Of course it''s like this, of course," Ricky sighed, resting his head in his hands and shaking his head.


    "Just a goddamn onion," Ricky muttered, tearing into the wing of the goose as his eyes drifted back to the map Alexander was studying.


    "So we shall teleport here-" Morgana began, her smile widening as she traced her finger back over the map, only to be interrupted by a small, yet insistent voice.


    "If I may be so rude as to interrupt, but can I suggest we teleport here?" Alexander suddenly cut in, tracing his small paw along the treeline, distancing it away from where Morgana had placed her X, and resting it atop a specific spot.


    "But that clearing is full of hills-" Morgana laughed, as if it were absurd, only for Alexander to shake his head.


    "Downward sloping, favored in our general direction towards the treeline." Alexander countered, his paw drawing along the terrain as they would appear atop the hills looking down onto the treeline rather than right next to it.


    "As you said, we cannot cross the treeline with magic, and thus, we are open to attack when approaching," Alexander explained, his eyes almost outlining a silhouette of a potential battle with varying outcomes.


    "An empty field is an understandable choice, but we want them running up to us rather than at us." Alexander gestured back to her X, his tone curious yet utterly dismantling her reasoning.


    Morgana hadn''t truly put much thought into the matter, confident that Merlyn wouldn''t step out of his little bubble and knowing they could handle any forces he sent their way.


    But when Alexander challenged her, she felt a stir of threat and knew she had to make sure she''d get the upper hand, even if it meant playing a poor hand she was dealt.


    "Even though it was nominal, our troops would need cover and the high ground since their numbers should far outweigh ours-"


    "How can you be so sure that we will be attacked-"


    "How can you not?" Alexander interrupted, his question prying at her lack of thought, sharpening the tension in the air.


    Morgana raised her gaze to meet the challenge, feeling the intimidation of the gerbil''s eyes, which showed not the slightest hint of fear for her authority.


    "It is not purely about numbers, our individual superiority-"


    "It''s always about numbers, be it 100 or 100,000," Alexander interrupted Morgana again, staring her directly in the eyes.


    "In a war, cannon fodder exists for the exact reason of being numbers." Alexander prompted, his words making Morgana want to retort but laughed at how absurd it was to degrade herself to continue arguing any further.


    "The reason bannermen exist and not the most individually strong troops is because, in an onslaught of enemies, throwing bodies at a battle could, and can, nudge the victor just enough to make a difference," Alexander explained, his words flowing as smoothly as the rivers of blood he had made with the deaths of his enemies.


    "What should happen is that Ricky should of course lead from here, I would lead my legion over there-


    Alexander continued, his paw tracing over the map, his eyes fixed on it as if he were standing right on the battlefield itself.


    To put it simply, it was as if every line and every contour appeared in his mind''s eye as though the terrain had come to life beneath his touch.


    Morgana''s eyebrows furrowed, feeling completely undermined by Alexander.


    Despite having led many armies and campaigns, she couldn''t deny that Alexander had won far more than she had ever accomplished.


    But what Morgana didn''t understand, like all those around the gerbil, was how Alexander stood over the map, watching him as his little feet merely stood over this mere paper.


    But to Alexander, the map was no longer a mere collection of lines and symbols, it was alive.


    Every curve, every contour, every mark told a story, and in his mind, the terrain itself came to life, propping up when he looked around the part he was standing on.


    He was just able to visualize the environment the map detailed with almost perfect clarity, as if the paper had transformed into reality.


    He looked down, almost sensing the feel of the grass beneath his feet, and then turned his gaze to the side, imagining the hills stretching out before him, each one offering its own tactical advantage.


    It all clicked into his mind as if he were once again in his commander''s tent from the past, always searching for any, just one, way to change the course of battle.


    Many of his victories hadn''t come from sheer strength, but from impeccable placement and perfect timing.


    Although he was but a mere gerbil, his presence once again made Morgana and the elders feel small.


    Alexander didn''t just embody this feeling, he made it clear with his words, reflecting on his thoughts that constantly dissuade any form of arguments from these figures.


    Morgana felt the sting of his challenge, wanting to get back at him but ended up feeling a mix of begrudging respect and frustration.


    She had momentarily forgotten that this was Alexander the Great standing before her, and the reminder left her both impressed and a little soured by the shift in power within the conversation she herself started.


    Because, though Alexander is often passionate and whimsical, when the moment demands it, when the moment asks him to be at the forefront.


    He becomes the forefront.


    His presence alone commands attention, and even the main story around him shifts to accommodate it.


    He doesn''t just follow the flow, he draws it.


    But as Morgana''s gaze lingered on the map, her face slowly soured, the weight of her frustration growing.


    Ricky, feeling the tension, slowly leaned in, resting his head on her shoulder as she side-eyed him, a mix of irritation and subtle amusement in her expression.


    "Oh come on, don''t get all soured cause of Alexander, that just how he is when it comes to this stuff-"


    "It''s not that, and I was not soured," Morgana refuted, her tone sharp, not only correcting the misinterpretation but also denying the very suggestion that she was bothered in the first place.


    However, Ricky could detect the obvious lie within her words but didn''t interrupt her and let her continue


    "I simply realized that one of us needs to secure that bastion, the Starlight Citadel," Morgana continued, her finger tracing towards the boundary on the map, moving farther down to hover over an obelisk that seemed to float above the nexus of realities.


    "Although it''s purely built as a defensive fortress, its observational capabilities stretches all across Otherworld, including Camelot." Morgana''s voice took on a more serious tone as she frowned, her eyes narrowing in thought.


    Alexander, who had gotten a little carried away with his explanation towards the elder, also turned his attention to the map, a flicker of realization crossing his face.


    But before he could voice his thoughts, Ricky cut in.


    "Wouldn''t he be all over it, like, fortifying the sh*t out of it?" Ricky said, tapping the desk with a slight furrow in his brow.


    The idea seemed strange to him after getting to know more about Merlyn, the master of Camelot and all its defenses, leaving such a powerful, floating fortress completely unguarded.


    "That would be the case if Lady Roma didn''t come herself," Morgana said, her voice sharp and sure, her eyes gleaming with a cold determination as she stared at the Starlight Citadel.


    "From my observations, understanding, and prior experience, Merlyn most likely ordered an evacuation into Camelot to bolster his numbers." Morgana paused, letting the words sink in before continuing.


    "Even if there are people within its walls, I''d still rather it fall under our dominion in the battle than leave it out in the open and besides." Morgana said, turning over to Ricky and caressing his chin slightly.


    "To further my point, it is a watchtower into your world, a monitoring station that can scan all across its plane, including the City of New York where your family resides," Morgana said, her words heavy as if using his family against him to convince him of how valuable it is as Ricky scratched his chin.


    "Well, are you just gonna stay up there the whole time or-"


    "I will only separate a needed few when occupying the citadel." Morgana stated firmly, her tone unwavering.


    "I will return before you make your siege against my claim." Morgana knew that to be the ruler, she couldn''t just take the throne from a distance, she had to be there, in the heart of it, to truly claim her crown as queen.


    "Speaking of which, can you check?" Ricky suddenly said, his gaze fixed on Morgana as she sighed, rolling her eyes at him as if the request was the last thing she wanted to deal with.


    "Ricky, I checked-"


    "Please." Ricky asked, his voice softer now but with a firmness that made it clear he wouldn''t ask again.


    He watched as Morgana parted her lips, ready to respond, but then shut them, her eyes narrowing in contemplation.


    With a deep, deliberate breath, she closed her eyes entirely, her senses, vision, and spirit distorting around her as if she was vanishing into her own thoughts.


    "?Co?mo esta?s?" Danielle hesitated, her voice soft as she sat on Raven''s lap, gently brushing her hair.


    "Muy bien, ?y tu??" Raven chuckled, planting a kiss on the top of her head in approval.


    Danielle smiled warmly, tilting her head forward slightly, clutching the ends of her skirt as a sense of accomplishment washed over cheeks as they reddened after finally getting it right.


    "Ricky has asked me to check on the situation." Morgana scoffed, her tone sharp as she smoothly transitioned into her vessels, crossing her legs and arms while raising her gaze to Danielle.


    "Now, Danielle, what do we call women who prance around Ricky like flies?" Raven asked cheerfully, her words dripping with venom.


    Morgana''s eyebrows twitched, a flicker of annoyance crossing her face at the subtle challenge.


    "I-I-"


    "It''s okay, honey, take your time," Raven whispered gently, offering encouragement without pressing Danielle into a corner.


    "A rompehogares?" Danielle asked curiously, turning her head up to Raven, who hugged her tightly, a soft smile playing on her lips as she held her close.


    "That''s right, good job, honey!" Raven exclaimed excitedly, her laughter bubbling up as Danielle lunged into her embrace, returning the hug with joy at the praise.


    Meanwhile, Morgana scowled intensely, her eyes closing as she turned back to the table. Ricky glanced at her, waiting for her to speak.


    "She''s fine, they''re fine." Morgana spat with a hint of disdain, leaving it at that as Ricky nodded, knowing that''s typically how Raven''s attention affected the women around her.


    "Hey, if you don''t want to go-" Ricky chuckled, brushing a stray lock of hair behind Morgana''s ear as she side-eyed him briefly before turning back to the map, focusing intently.


    "I don''t mind if Alexander here goes, but since I''m the only one who''s been to the Starlight Citadel before, it''s faster if it''s me," Morgana said, her tone pragmatic. It didn''t make sense for all of them to go.


    "However, although I could go about it on my own, I think it''d be better to have a small regime of the coven break off to follow me," Morgana said, her voice low and calculating.


    A glint of something, strategic, perhaps, flashed in her eyes as she looked up at the two elders, her gaze sharp and focused.


    Almost wanting to use their bodies to throw at any unexpected revelations.


    Eldric and Cedric frowned at this, not at her hidden intentions but the manner in which this thought was carried out as the reason they had remained silent all this time for good reason.


    It wasn''t their place to chime in on matters they weren''t experienced with, especially this kind of warfare.


    While they had certainly faced their fair share of battles, nothing compared to this.


    The closest they had come to this level of complexity was a defensive battle against intruders, but this was something entirely different.


    However, the reason they frowned wasn''t because they were against the idea of taking the Starlight Citadel as a bastion.


    It was because they, along with the coven members, had come to fight the Chimeras, not to secure footholds in a war that wasn''t originally theirs.


    Eldric, the stubborn old man, crossed his arms, his stance firm as if to show he would be rooted in place.


    He''d rather die fighting the Chimeras in hopes of finding his lost daughter than live without being a part of the battle.


    "I''ll-" Cedric began, his voice faltering for a moment as if he were weighing some noble sacrifice. He closed his eyes briefly, gathering his thoughts before continuing.


    "I''ll go." Cedric finally came to terms with his decision, his voice steady but with a hint of resolve.


    Eldric, in response, gave him a respectful nod, a silent acknowledgment of the weight of Cedric''s words and the path he was about to take.


    "Way to stick your neck out, Eldric." Ricky chuckled from the side, tearing off another piece of goose.


    The old man, Eldric, snorted in disdain, his eyes narrowing at Ricky''s lighthearted jab.


    "I''ve been sitting on my ass well enough, I ain''t come here to chafe it on some fancy Citadel." Eldric said, his gruff words speaking for the coven that had followed behind them.


    "Then, shall we get back to the war at hand?" Alexander asked, almost excited to once again step into the thrall of battle as he immediately took hold of the reins of the conversation, going in-depth into where they should set up if attacked.


    "Hey Asterion, you gotta second?" Ricky leaned over, watching Asterion beckon over an undead servant that was carrying more food as the minotaur turned towards him.


    "Of course, I have whole minutes set aside just for you," Asteiron joked, his plate now cleared of duck bones, only to be quickly replaced with another hot serving of roasted duck.


    "I know you''re like a crazy strong Demi-God, but could you take a backseat until we get to Camelot?" Ricky asked, rubbing the back of his neck. Although he wanted to squeeze out the Minotaur''s usefulness, he had something else pressing.


    "Of course," Asteiron replied, a hint of surprise in his voice.


    "Is there any particular reasoning for such a line of questioning?" Asterion added, intrigued that Ricky would willingly place him in the background, considering he was one of, if not the strongest here.


    "Cause of Lady Roma, she''s my card against Merlyn." Ricky said, revealing it to Asterion who understood as he sought to leverage Merlny''s daughter at his gates.


    "But I just feel like, I don''t know how to explain it, but like I feel-" Ricky tried to explain it, to voice out his reasoning but Asteiron understood.


    "You wish for me to guard her and make sure you don''t lose your valuable bargaining piece." Asteiron finished his sentence, putting it into words as Ricky nodded.


    Snap


    "Yeah, that." Ricky snapped his fingers, knowing that Merlyn might pull something to save him the trouble and he didn''t want that at all.


    Ricky didn''t care about Lady Roma, and although she was attractive, Merlin pissed him off more than his desire to bone her, which was saying a lot.


    "Also, I got another favor I want to ask of you, if that''s cool." Ricky said, knowing how shameless he was being but Asteiron gladly welcomed it.


    "Ask away."


    For the next couple of minutes, Ricky stood off to the side, engaged in his own ongoing conversation as everyone else settled into their own realm of thought.


    As the minutes ticked by on the clocks and the food dwindled until only empty plates remained, it became time for them to set off.


    Everyone, from Ricky himself to Morgana''s undead, slowly gathered outside the castle gates, the last two people finally appearing.


    "Listen, I know it''s asking a lot of you, but in return, when this is all over, we''ll hang out, just the two of us," Ricky offered, aware that he was always asking one-sided favors from Asterion.


    He wanted to give him something he might actually accept, especially since Asterion was the most unselfish person he knew.


    In fact, one time his guys had to inform him that Asterion was sleeping under a bridge to ''understand what a worm feels like,''.


    He was a very aloof person, and Ricky had never quite figured out what to give him in return for everything he offered.


    It just went to show that Asterion''s dedication to others was beyond anything Ricky had ever seen, and it only made Ricky feel like he owed him more than he could ever repay.


    But even now, Asterion was honestly delighted to tag along on Ricky''s adventure to see new things.


    Even coming to Otherworld had been more than enough payment, but for once, he decided to take Ricky up on his offer


    "Then I shall gladly assist you in whatever way I can." Asterion smiled, walking side by side with Ricky as they gradually crossed the drawbridge and approached the gathering crowd.


    "Hurry up, we have a victory that needs achieving!" Alexander beckoned, raising his spear as the undead legion behind him followed.


    "Alright, alright, relax," Ricky said, walking next to Alexander as Morgana nodded, her eyes narrowing in concentration.


    With a wave of her hand, she began casting the portal, her fingers tracing symbols in the air that shimmered with an ethereal glow.


    "Oh sh*t, I just remembered something," Ricky realized as the portal slowly materialized before all of them.


    "I got some more powers," Ricky said outright, not hiding it from Alexander, who merely sighed at the statement.


    "Of course you have," Alexander said, immensely troubled by his disciple, who gathered powers like he gathered bastards as he drooped his shoulders and turned to him.


    "Well, do they align with your swordsmanship?" Alexander asked first, watching Ricky walk forward with him, since everyone was waiting for him to go through the portal first.


    "I actually had some thoughts about the whole ''revolving my powers around the ebony blade'' thing," Ricky said, honestly putting his thoughts into view as they both stepped forward into the swirling purple vortex.


    "Ricky, you must understand-"


    "I''m just saying, it wouldn''t hurt for me to actually learn how to use all these damn skills," Ricky interrupted, stepping out of the other side of the shimmering portal beside Alexander, who stood tall on his steed.


    His gaze drifted, momentarily caught by the sight of Bucephalus'' imposing snout, the warhorse standing as still as a statue, nostrils flaring in irritation at him daring to talk back to Alexander.


    "I mean, I get these new powers every other f*cking day, shouldn''t I be, I don''t know, altering myself around that goal?" Ricky gestured vaguely, his words laced with exasperation as his hands signaled through the air.


    "Asterion agrees with me, right, Asterion?" Ricky said, turning towards Asterion, who had also stepped out of the portal but was now crouching down and observing a daisy growing out of a rock, poking at it.


    "See, look, Asterion gets it-......I think." Ricky said, gazing at Asterion, who wasn''t paying attention, before turning back to Alexander, who stubbornly crossed his arms.


    "Ricky, it''s out of focus, fighting is a discipline and you need to understand that first and foremost." Alexander exhaled through his nose, the slightest shake of his head betraying his thoughts before he even spoke.


    "I''m not saying it''s not a f*cking discipline-"


    "But you are saying that you should constantly shift your train of thought to every new power that pops up within you?" Alexander asked, trying to understand it from Ricky''s point of view but unable to completely grasp it from his own biases.


    "Okay, now you''re just blowing it out of proportion." Ricky scoffed, holding up his hand to stop him but Alexander merely shook his head.


    "Is it so over exaggerated to assume that every other day you might have a different power spouting within you?" Alexander grunted, this time looking at Ricky, who was about to say something but closed his mouth again.


    To Ricky, the whereabouts of his powers were obvious, but to Alexander, it was as if at any moment he could suddenly possess a new power, like an unpredictable force


    But the thing that made Alexander concerned was this very fact, since it seemed like every second, Ricky''s focus could shift to a new power sprouting within him.


    However, Alexander didn''t want Ricky to be like a field of scattered flowers, shifting constantly with each new bloom.


    He wanted him to be a large tree, deeply rooted, with bushes around it; strong, stable, and able to grow with purpose.


    "Fighting is a discipline because it requires focus, repetition, and direction." Alexander explained, knowing it was frustrating since Ricky was the type of person, from his observation, to get easily psych tracked, memorized by the flashy lights that constantly swirled around him.


    "But what''s more, is that you have a gift, you have talent, potential." Alexander explained, pushing it even further as Ricky just sort of sat there while the others slowly trickled in through the portal.


    "The talent you have is like this spear," Alexander said, materializing his spear with a flourish, the skill adornment commanding attention as he pointed the tip toward Ricky.


    "You either take care of it, sharpen it regularly, keep it clean and sheathed, or you neglect it, allowing it to dull and chip over time." Alexander smiled as he gazed at the spear, his reflection sharp in the blade.


    "But skill is how you wield that spear as even a dull knife in the hands of an experienced fighter can kill a weakling with the sharpest sword known to man." Alexander turned his gaze back to Ricky, his eyes intense and purposeful.


    "I know you''ve been successful in your implementation of your many sharp spears, using them to overwhelm your enemies with countless cuts," Alexander continued, his voice calm but carrying weight.


    "But one day, you''ll face someone with a sword as sharp as yours, and the hands to wield it with far better precision." Alexander let the words hang in the air, his gaze unwavering, as if challenging Ricky to truly consider the consequences of his approach.


    "AND FURTHERMORE-" Alexander boasted loudly, speaking from his very heart as he started to get carried away as Ricky sort of sighed.


    SIGH


    "Uh huh."


    "Woah."


    "Totally."


    Ricky muttered his response, knowing full well it was nearly impossible to interrupt one of Alexander''s tangents, so he let it play out.


    "Uh-huh," Ricky said, his lips pressed into a thin line, reluctantly agreeing to Alexander''s rant.


    But as Alexander continued, a twitch within Ricky''s mind shifted the focus, his thoughts slipping momentarily from the conversation as something stirred deep within him.


    He instantly glanced down, his eyes narrowing as the tiny pebbles on the ground trembled, rattling in place as if something massive was approaching that made him widen his eyes.


    "And another thing-"


    "INCOMING!" Ricky''s voice ripped through the moment, his instincts flaring to life as his hands shot up, and before Alexander could even turn toward the disturbance, the treeline erupted into chaos.


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!"


    Author''s Note: I appercaite the support and the messages cause it''s cool to see people really like this story as much as I liked writing it. Wish I could respond to any of the comments BUT WEBNOVEL F*CKING LITERALLY WON''T LET ME LIKE WTF IS THIS BILLION DOLLAR COMPANY DOING! Anyways, this site is just being weird lately but I do see the comments and appreciate them cause I read them all. Even if webnovel won''t even let me goddamn like one.

 Chapter 187 - 177: Waves

    Chapter 187 - 177: Waves


    "SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!"


    The forest, once deathly still, now screamed with the fury of an unholy stampede.


    From the abyss of the treeline, they came, those chimeric nightmares that had dug themselves from the earth of Camelot, had finally arrived.


    This horde, built for speed, had their bodies made up of a blasphemous fusion of nature''s fastest hunters.


    Their wiry, muscular frames rippled with the raw power of wolves and hyenas, spines bending like coiled springs before launching them forward in bursts of terrifying speed.


    Elongated, jagged skulls echoed the essence of predatory beasts, coyote-like snouts lined with serrated fangs, and jackal ears twitching at the faintest sounds.


    Their limbs, a grotesque fusion of raptor talons connected to the tendons of cheetah''s, struck the earth in rapid succession, their human fingers digging into the dirt and propelling them forward.


    BAM


    BAM


    BAM


    Ricky''s reaction was immediate as a mental wall materialized before them all in an instant, its translucent edges crackling with sheer force of his will.


    Without even realizing, the chimeras slammed into it at full speed, their mindless momentum sending sickening crunches through the air as their own bones snapped upon impact.


    Blood spattered against the invisible barrier, grotesque stains smearing across its surface but the creatures didn''t stop.


    They didn''t hesitate.


    They didn''t even acknowledge their fallen brethren.


    They adapted.


    Those behind leapt off their fallen kin, using them as platforms to launch themselves higher as if instinctively knowing there was an end.


    Some twisted mid-air, clawing and acting as stairs for their other brethren as sewn on hands stepped on them and trampled them to death before they took their place atop the growing staircase.


    They were just relentless.


    More surged forward, climbing over the crumpled bodies, their soulless eyes locked onto their targets, their prey, and they salivated at the taste of their living flesh.


    "Do you see this?" Alexander asked, seizing the opportunity of the sudden surprise attack that left the coven scrambling for their grimoires and Morgana preparing for the assault all while this gerbil used the moment as a teaching opportunity.


    "This is what happens when power lacks control," Alexander''s voice was calm, almost detached, as he gestured toward the relentless horde, oblivious to their own impending destruction.


    "Strength without discipline is nothing but wasted potential, it is merely throwing a tedious amount of power at a well-lined wall," Alexander described, gesturing his paw as he watched the chimeras form up the barrier.


    Alexander all but gestured lazily with a paw, as if to highlight the irony of the creatures battering themselves against Ricky''s mental barrier.


    Again and again, they slammed into it, spine-shattering impacts that sent shockwaves rippling through the air.


    Some collapsed instantly, breaking their own necks by their own blind aggression while others adapted, veering off, flooding outwards towards the side to see if this barrier showed signs of end.


    "Really, are you seriously gonna do this right f*cking now?" Ricky asked, feeling the tide slam against his mind but his eyes flared a greener tint.


    "I understand that you harbor such powers," Alexander continued, ignoring Ricky''s words all together, his tone measured, eyes never leaving the chaos beyond Ricky''s barrier.


    "But you must center yourself like a city, fortified and unshaken, rather than mere cannon fodder, thrown recklessly against the arms of war." Alexander gaze flicked toward Ricky, the smirk fading into something more calculated.


    "Power alone isn''t enough, it must be anchored, directed, otherwise, you''re just another beast in the horde, clawing at walls you''ll never break." Alexander referenced the very horde fighting against the invisible wall, uncaring as a massive line of horrific chimera creatures formed in front of his view.


    "It is what my mentor aristotle always said-........ah, what was it again?" Alexander suddenly continued, praising his mentor only to falter at the precipice of his own train of thought.


    "It was on the very tip of my tongue, hmmmmmmmmmmm~" Alexander tried to remember, pondering all while Ricky laughed as another, seemingly thousand, chimera lunged at the barrier.


    "Yeah, take your f*cking time, it''s not like I''m putting up a goddamn barrier that separates us from these things!" Ricky snapped, only using the barrier so that the others wouldn''t be caught off guard.


    Gazing around as the coven slowly got into position, exactly as Alexander had instructed for this very scenario, they began offering support to the undead, who crawled steadily towards the front lines.


    "Finally, FINALLY I GET TO TASTE THE SOULS OF MY MASTER''S ENEMIES!" Boney yelled, pumping himself up with excitement, while Chuck''s eyes glowed faintly with the subtle light of his magic.


    "Ah, I understand, master. Truly, this servant of yours will carry out your will," Chuck chuckled, his skeletal fingers crackling with dark magic.


    "Kill mE~"


    "kILL Me~"


    "kill ME!~"


    A massive mound of twisted, rotting flesh sluggishly dragged itself forward, its grotesque form propelled by a mess of limbs that writhed and shifted.


    The faces of the fallen mob bosses twisted in agony, their eyes rolled back, whispering out the voices of their damnation.


    Though it moved with the slow, deliberate pace of a snail, the creature''s ability to assimilate the flesh of its victims allowed it to continue its grotesque advance.


    As it neared, it found its place on Ricky''s right side, rolling to a halt as the amalgamation of flesh continued its cries for any reprieve of death.


    CLOP


    The wraith steed of the variant of Meggan Puceanu clopped slowly, its spectral hooves echoing against the ground, until it came to a gradual halt at Ricky''s left side.


    The headless dullahan, once a variant of Brian Braddock, rose up from the saddle, his sorrow palpable as it seemed to seep through the very scythe he gripped.


    His silent weeping radiated from the hollow space where his head once rested, the blade of the scythe trembling with the weight of grief that could not be expressed in words.


    "Is this necessary?" Morgana asked, her gaze flickering between Ricky and Alexander, who were bickering back and forth while everything unfolded around them.


    Asterion, ever the picture of calm, politely smiled and looked up at her with a serene expression


    However, instead of advancing forward, Morgana stayed near the unconscious Lady Roma, still bound by Chastiefol''s 1st form along with Asterion, having been personally asked by Ricky himself.


    "It is part of their process and usually, they''d be more angry if things were more dire," Asterion said, trying to put Morgana at ease only to do the exact opposite as she frowned.


    "I don''t know how to respond to that-" Morgana said, holding back her words, only for Eldric to step forward because for him and the coven, this was it.


    Nothing else mattered as their main objective, their reason for coming this far, his reason for following a man he did not like but respected or like, stood before them and with it, so did his resolve.


    "COVEN, READY YOUR GRIMOIRES, TODAY WE LAY TO REST OUR FAMILY!" Eldric roared, unable to hold back any longer as his voice echoed through the air, drawing the attention of every member of the coven.


    The ones who had been standing off to the side, lingering in the shadows of Ricky''s adventures, finally stepped forward.


    No longer mere bystanders, they were ready to take the stage.


    Everything clicked into place, and once it did, Ricky turned his focus back to the wall.


    Above him, his gatling gun-like constructs slowly began to assemble, since if the ground was filled with his forces, the skies were now filled with his influence, his will.


    The constructs stretched outward, pieces of psychic structures shifting and arranging to suit the mechanical energy flowing through them.


    Each movement was deliberate, a calculated dance of power and precision as Ricky''s will began to take shape above the battlefield.


    "Ah, I shall save my mentor''s words for later," Alexander shrugged, waving his hand over to Ricky, signaling that he was ready.


    Then, the psychic barrier that had been holding up this pseudo-mountain of mindless Chimera bodies, twisting and writhing among their fallen brethren, finally gave way.


    The wall that had kept them at bay vanished as if it was never there, leaving nothing to stop their advance.


    It was then that an avalanche of bodies erupted, the ground shaking beneath the force of their surge.


    Undeterred by their own destruction, the Chimeras surged forward in an unrelenting wave, crashing into the earth with a thunderous roar.


    BOOM


    The collision''s force was deafening, a violent eruption that sent bones shattering and grotesque limbs flinging aside.


    The mountain of carcasses buckled beneath its own weight, sending a cascade of twisted, wriggling bodies spilling down like a flood of death all while the living Chimeras rode the flood, surging forward like an unrelenting tide


    To these mindless beasts, only one thing mattered, their instinctive drive to tear through any obstacle in their path.


    "FOR MACEDONIA!" Alexander roared, rallying the charge as he surged forward with all his might.


    "What he said!" Ricky yelled, catching the signal, lunged toward the chimera horde, a wave of sheer force following in his wake.


    His three spectral arms materialized from his back, two of them drawing the corrupted Venomous Fang and Tungsten Blade from his flesh before the Stormcaller''s Glaive was pulled from his inventory.


    BOOM


    Another avalanche of chimera monsters descended with a deafening roar, only to surge upward again like an unstoppable tide.


    Rippling forward like an ocean in motion, its shadow stretched over Ricky, a crushing wave threatening to swallow him whole.


    The mass of twisted creatures sought collapsed in on him until, in an instant, a red streak of electricity tore through the chaos, crackling like a storm unleashed.


    SPLAT


    BAM


    The tide crashed down, but not as it had intended.


    It parted as if Ricky was Moses himself, slicing through the middle and utterly dissolving the momentum in an instant.


    Ricky couldn''t even count how many Chimeras he had just killed, but the moment their cut-in-half corpses hit the ground, more surged over them as if they were desperately trying to intimidate the mighty hydra, relentless as they stampeded their fallen brethren into mush under their own drive to consume.


    But before they could all swarm in around him, the air suddenly thickened with a faint, hissing sound, as if the very atmosphere was warning of something yet to come.


    BOOM


    BOOM


    The madness of Ricky''s psychic constructs rained down on the encroaching horde of Chimeras that sought to overwhelm him.


    Bullets, shaped by his mind, tore through the air, propelled forward by the miniature explosions of his pyrokinesis that ignited the constructs into fully-fledged machinery.


    Blood splattered into the air like fountains, but its spray was quickly drowned out by the sounds of bodies being crushed under the weight of his gatling gun-like constructs, ripped apart, and reduced to nothing more than a mound of fleshy remnants.


    But through all of it, Ricky saw it all as nothing more than a stepping stone, unfazed by the carnage beneath his feet.


    Crushing his foot forward, the sickening crack of a Chimera''s skull reverberated through the air as he pressed on it and used it as a mere springboard.


    The three spectral hands, imbued with the elements of fire, water, and air, swirled madly around his body as any Chimera daring to lunge at his blind spot was shredded under the onslaught.


    The spectral hands moved with a complete recklessness, their swings unrefined but devastating.


    They split the creatures into pieces one after the other, each swipe cutting down three or four monsters, but lacking the precision of true mastery.


    The real art of the slaughter, however, lay in Ricky''s two original hands.


    One grasped the ebony shield, a symbol of defense, while the other held the ebony blade, an extension of his will and sharpened for destruction.


    One guarded the body while the other carved through the oncoming storm.


    WHOOSH


    A gust of air reverberated as Ricky swung the blade across his body as the arc of the blade, moving with deadly precision, sliced through the air, and in its wake, a violent explosion of red electricity erupted, ripping through the space before it.


    The entire arc seemed to slice through the horde in an instant, cleaving monsters in half and leaving no room for escape.


    "FIREBALL!".


    "ICICLE SPEARS!"


    "LIGHTNING STRIKE!"


    The Coven members unleashed their spells from a safe distance, each one targeting the rear of the advancing horde, ensuring that they crippled the monsters without ever threatening Ricky.


    Flames erupted, shards of ice shot through the air, and bolts of lightning cracked through the sky, each spell causing devastation to the horde.


    They were a constant barrage, a wall of magic that battered the enemies flank relentlessly.


    But among the chaos, the Dullahan surged forward as the wraith steed''s hooves pounded the earth with unnatural force.


    The headless figure raised its massive scythe high, its mournful sorrow pouring it all into the weapon.


    The very air seemed to crack with grief as the Dullahan swung the scythe down with tremendous force, its momentum enhanced by the weight of its loss and fury.


    The strike came with the might of an entire storm, the scythe cleaving through the very air as it aimed for the heart of the horde.


    The wail of the Dullahan continued to echo, reverberating in the minds of those nearby, but there was never any hesitation in its attack.


    Every swing was driven by the anguish of its existence, every blow infused with the sorrow of a being who no longer knew peace.


    Green blood splattered across the Dullahan as it cut down the seemingly endless horde, its scythe a relentless force of death.


    Meanwhile, the Corpse Colossus continued its slow, monstrous advance.


    Its massive, goo-like body slowly crawled forward with the various limbs and arms able to pull its massive, twisted biology forward.


    However when the Chimeras lunged at it, they found themselves sinking into the soft, malleable flesh.


    Their sharp teeth and claws, meant to tear through it, only sank deeper into the goo-like surface of its supposed skin, swallowed by it in a horrific, almost slow-motion engulfment.


    The Chimeras struggled, writhing inside the mass of the Corpse Colossus like quicksand, trying to tear their way free, but it was futile.


    The beast''s very body was a prison, a living nightmare that consumed and assimilated any attackers that dared to challenge it.


    It continued to move forward, dragging the unfortunate monsters deeper into its viscous form, like a slug slithering through the muck, indifferent to the futile struggles around it.


    "GET SOME, GET SOME!" Ricky roared, his voice a battle cry as he crushed the endless horde with sheer, unrelenting power.


    A mountain of corpses piled at his feet as he kept cutting through them, his stance shifted completely at the endless slaughter.


    No longer striking forward, he began striking downward, the corpses piling on his very feet and prompting him up to the point where the horde had to almost climb up towards him.


    They clawed and teared their way up but those who managed to even make it close were mowed down by the relentless attacks that his gauntlet guns rained down.


    However, there was a growing problem that remained distant from Ricky''s perception.


    When Ricky formed that barrier, he halted the Chimera''s advance, giving everyone around him enough time to set up.


    At the same time, he reformed the scattered horde of the vanguard, bringing together their various forms into one unified, conjured group, a line.


    When Merlin issued the command to speed up their approach, it meant that the Chimera''s wouldn''t move in an organized march but rather as a sprawling mass, a horde of bodies shuffling toward Ricky.


    Only the fastest and nimblest creatures reached him first, but even they were quickly broken up and separated by their pure speed.


    But that brief adjustment, that momentary pause to allow Ricky''s forces time to power up, also allowed this relentless wave of Chimera''s to finally consolidate into a line.


    A line of bodies, held in place by the vast, ever-expanding flat barrier, which was suddenly released, unleashing the full force of their assault.


    The Chimera horde poured down on Ricky in a straight line, but he didn''t try to fight the entire stretch; that would''ve been impossible due to the sheer numbers.


    Instead, he focused on the center of the mass, standing at the forefront to halt its advance.


    In doing so, however, the outer edges of the line, which Ricky wasn''t able to engage with as ruthlessly, started to close in on him.


    While Ricky relentlessly cut through the middle, the rest of the horde adapted, tightening around him.


    He was too deep in the thralls of the battle to realize the shift, unaware that the line had transformed from a straight line into a U-shaped formation.


    If no one else saw it, Alexander did.


    Acutely aware of the situation and how this U-shaped formation would inevitably tighten into a full-blown circle, his mind started to churn with strategy.


    When an army separates from its commander, the army struggles like a headless chicken.


    Even if capable, without a head, a leader, the body just runs around in circles, bleeding to death.


    Seeing the danger of Ricky being trapped, Alexander made a decisive move as he veered Bucephalus off course, shifting the battlefield''s dynamics and breaking the rhythm of the horde.


    "TO ME, MY LEGION!" Alexander roared, abruptly changing Bucephalus'' maddened charge, stomping away from the Chimera''s as the undead spearmen began to turn towards him.


    Rushing off to the side, they wrapped around the entire line, the whole battlefield, positioning themselves on the outside of the encroaching wave.


    Clearing the threshold and repositioning his forces to the side of the battle, Alexander twisted Bucephalus to face forward as his eyes reflected the madness that was war.


    "CHARGE!" Alexander bellowed, his voice giving way to the mighty steed''s hooves striking the earth with a resounding force, the ground shuddering beneath their weight.


    Lighting crackled around Bucephalus, the steed leaning into its power, charging forward without hesitation or fear.


    Sparks swirled like a storm around its powerful frame, and from the depths of the divine, the Bulls of the Gordius Wheel began to take form.


    The ethereal chariot materialized, its golden aura shimmering with divine energy.


    The undead, ever loyal, immediately fell into formation, some of the fiercest among them, including the legendary guard captain, mounting the chariot.


    The conqueror himself rode atop Bucephalus, his form poised with authority, perched on the steed''s snout as they surged into the fray.


    BOOM


    The ground trembled beneath Ricky''s feet, his ears ringing from the deafening explosion of force.


    His eyes snapped toward the source only to see Alexander''s charge and the line of Chimeras that had slowly been closing around him was obliterated, broken open by Bucephalus''s sheer might, leaving a gaping hole in its wake.


    Before the gap could fully close, twenty spearmen, as if moved by some unseen command, poured through and wedged themselves in the breach.


    They moved in perfect unison, striking with precision, cutting off any chance of the line reforming.


    In an instant, one-third of the advancing horde was shattered, the tide of battle split with a single, calculated maneuver.


    "FORWARD, FORWARD, ON ME!" Alexander''s voice boomed, towering over the minds of the coven while urging the undead warriors to press on as he pushed Ricky''s charge even further.


    His command cut through the battlefield, a call to action that would reshape the very flow of the fight.


    BOOM


    With a deafening crack, Alexander''s charge crushed the other side of the Chimera''s enclosure.


    The force of Bucephalus''s assault sent the creatures scattering, their lines buckling under the weight of the attack.


    A handful of undead warriors dismounted from the chariot, their movements sharp and precise as they lunged toward the newly formed gap, ready to tear into the horde.


    Eldric''s eyes widened, his mind racing as he understood Alexander''s strategy.


    Without hesitation, he began channeling an immense surge of magical energy into his grimoire, his fingers moving rapidly through the pages as he prepared to assist in turning the tide.


    "QUICKLY, ATTACK THE BREACHED RANKS OF THESE FOUL CREATURES!" Eldric bellowed, thrusting his hands forward as a torrent of fiery spears rained down on the left side of the shattered horde.


    The coven and witches, seeing the opening, followed suit, unleashing their own devastating attacks in a coordinated surge.


    Morgana, witnessing the shift in the battle, raised her hands, her fingers crackling with dark energy.


    With a commanding motion, she directed the vast army of her skeletal undead, their blackened bones gleaming under the dim light, to surge alongside Alexander''s legion on the right.


    As the skeletons poured forward, Ricky, fueled by determination, spearheaded the charge, cutting through the chaos with relentless force.


    SPLAT


    With the head of the horde now in his sights, Ricky''s focus sharpened, his every movement a calculated strike.


    He trusted Alexander to guard his back, the general''s relentless assault breaking the horde into mere shallow waves, leaving them scattered and weakened.


    The coven, Alexander, Morgana, and Ricky each took command of one-third of the advancing swarm.


    What was once a monstrous tide of relentless beasts, now faltered, crushed and broken up under their whims, into small undercurrents.


    ''I gotta go forward,'' Ricky suddenly realized, his train of thought clear as his mind began to sharpen with each passing moment.


    The pull he felt wasn''t just instinct, his newfound understanding of his surroundings was crystallizing.


    Ever since his intelligence had begun to grow, things that once seemed complex were now falling into place with ease.


    It wasn''t that he instantly knew everything about how the world works or things like psychics, but after witnessing it unfold before his eyes, it became easier for him to grasp.


    The pieces clicked together in a way they hadn''t before as it wasn''t instant mastery, but an evolving comprehension, like a blurred image slowly coming into focus.


    A week ago, he might have dismissed or struggled to process what he was seeing, but now, he could grasp the logic


    His senses, his awareness, it all clicked as if he was breathing, and with a deep inhale, Ricky poured his strength into the next step, propelling himself forward with unwavering resolve.


    BOOM


    A deafening thunderclap rang through the air as Ricky gripped the ebony shield tight, its weight a comforting presence as he charged forward like a spearhead.


    With a single motion, he plunged into the heart of the massed Chimera, cutting through them with unrelenting force.


    His spectral hands whipped around him, flying about in a chaotic dance of destructive power, each movement perfectly attuned to the needs of their wielder.


    They swatted down anything that dared come near, clearing a path as Ricky pushed deeper into the center.


    Taking a page from Alexander''s playbook, Ricky split the incoming force in two.


    But instead of splitting his attention between both halves, he abruptly turned his back to one and charged forward with relentless determination.


    The Chimeras, their mouths salivating, lunged at him, eager to tear into his back.


    But before they could strike, a barrage of raw power descended upon them, smashing into their skulls and splattering their bodies into a disgusting mess.


    Controlling his gauntlet gun constructs to unleash a relentless barrage into one half of the horde, Ricky poured every ounce of his power into the ebony blade in his other hand.


    "YOU LIKE THAT, HUH? OH YOU LOVE IT!" Ricky yelled, demanding these mindless Chimera''s while boasting his own morale.


    With precise swings, his blade cut through any obstacle, any resistance, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.


    Streaks of electricity crackled around him, surging through the chaotic battlefield as they tore through the remaining Chimera.


    In an instant, the once formidable force was reduced to nothing more than scattered pieces.


    It was a blur after that, as if Ricky had turned on autopilot, his motions repeating the same strikes with the precision of someone chopping vegetables into small cubes, over and over again.


    Time passed, with more and more blood staining his ebony knight armor, until Ricky stood amidst the carnage, panting heavily.


    Huff


    Huff


    "Woah." Ricky muttered, his voice a mix of disbelief and exhaustion as he wiped the green blood off his helmet, his hand lingering for a moment as he took in the scene.


    Mounds of corpses were piled upon each other, the fallen chimera strewn across the battlefield in large heaps of charred and cut flesh.


    Despite their status as mere cannon fodder, the numbers were still staggering at nearly a thousand had fallen from his view, and Ricky himself had decimated a third of that force alone.


    Clop


    Clop


    "Well done, Ricky," Alexander praised, his voice carrying a tone of admiration as Bucephalus trotted over, the sound of his hooves resonating across the battlefield, and together, they surveyed the sheer destruction that Ricky had caused.


    "Yeah, well, I didn''t even realize they were surrounding me." Ricky admitted, frowning as he wiped the sweat from his brow as he had been so caught up in the heat of battle that he hadn''t noticed the encroaching horde until Alexander intervened.


    "Thanks for the assist," Ricky said, raising his fist as Alexander bumped it with a chuckle atop Bucephalus head, nodding in acknowledgment.


    "Do not simmer your accomplishment, it is normal to be taken by the tides of war, it happens to us all." Alexander stressed, showing that even he too became lost within the endless amount of blood that pooled around them.


    "I merely saw them encroaching, steered the legion you handed to me, and put them to good use, but if you had a plan-"


    "Nah man, I was just swinging my sh*t around and seeing what stuck, that really just opened up the whole thing." Ricky said, waving his hand at Alexander, who nodded his head while raising his furry chin into the air.


    "Well, I am an amazing commander, so I shall take your compliment in stride," Alexander chuckled atop of Bucephalus, laughing at his own joke, nodding to himself as Eldric slowly walked up to Ricky.


    "Aye, Eldric, good sh*t." Ricky patted his shoulder, giving him a thumbs up as the old man sternly nodded before gazing directly into his eyes.


    "May we take a second of this downtime to survey the surroundings?" Eldric asked, suggesting they halt their advance instead of moving immediately and Ricky, who had momentarily forgotten, nodded in agreement.


    Holding up his thumb to all the coven members waiting in the ranks, they surged forward like a Black Friday sale, with that same urgent look on their faces.


    Their purpose was clear, as they followed Ricky towards Otherworld for this very reason.


    Sitting down on a nearby boulder, Ricky had a sudden thought and pulled up his status screen.


    The list of words that defined him appeared, and he scrolled through it, recalling things with increasing ease.


    "Holy sh*t, I forgot about this."


    While Ricky''s mind was churning, the coven moved slowly across the battlefield, walking over the carnage with red-glowing crystals now held in their hands.


    These crystals, originally intended for paternity tests, had been reforged by the alchemy section for a much more intense purpose: scanning the dispelled blood of the fallen to match it with the user''s current blood.


    Each crystal pulsed with energy as they carefully combed through the bloodshed, their search relentless and precise.


    A lone witch, around fifty years of age, who had spent her life in the middle ranks of the coven, had joined this crusade with the same hopes as many others: to find her lost family.


    She had never expected to find them here, in the wreckage of battle, but the glimmer of hope was too strong to ignore.


    Unlike the others, her crystal began to light up slowly, first with a faint hue, shimmering like the first rays of dawn.


    The glow grew brighter the closer she got to a particular mound, an unnatural energy emanating from the spot.


    The intensity of the light surged, drawing her closer, as if the crystal itself was calling her.


    Then, with a sudden flash, the crystal flared to life, its intensity blinding as the energy surged through her as she staggered forward.


    A pale expression overtook her face, and her breath came in shallow, frantic gasps.


    Her hands shook uncontrollably as they reached out toward the Chimera''s corpse, but before she could make contact, her legs gave way beneath her.


    She crumpled to the ground, unable to hold herself up any longer, the strength draining from her body entirely.


    However, as the witch''s gaze locked onto the twisted form of the Chimera, her gaze shifted to one of its limbs.


    It was not the grotesque mishmash of beasts she had come to expect, it was human.


    A single arm, sown tightly into the body of this abomination as its pale features stuck out amidst the horrid fur.


    But it wasn''t just any arm.


    This arm, with its unmistakable birthmark, held a haunting familiarity.


    The witch''s breath caught in her throat, her pulse quickening as the memory surged forward.


    It was the same arm that had tucked her in as a child, the arm that had held her close in a protective embrace during the dark nights when she sought comfort.


    It was the arm of her mother.


    The recognition was like a knife in her chest as she had been so young when her mother was taken from her, shoved aside by the very woman who had once cradled her, her mother''s last act being to push her into her father''s arms before she was yanked away.


    And now, staring at that arm, her mother''s arm, twisted and corrupted into something monstrous, the memories rushed back in a flood of grief, anger, and confusion.


    The witch''s body trembled as she reached out, her fingers brushing the cold, lifeless limb, unable to tear herself away from the horror and the truth that lay before her.


    Sniff


    HIC


    The woman''s chest tightened with a wrenching pain, the weight of grief crashing down on her.


    Tears welled up, spilling down her face as her shaky hands worked to undo the delicate stitches that bound her mother''s arm to the monstrous Chimera.


    With trembling fingers, she carefully unraveled the thread, her heart pounding as she freed the limb.


    Once it was released, she pulled it close, cradling the arm to her chest as if it were the last piece of her mother she could hold onto.


    "AHHHHHHHHHHH!" A raw, anguished cry tore from her lips, a sound that seemed to echo across the battlefield.


    She clutched the remains of her mother so tightly, as if holding onto the last shred of the love she had once known.


    Each sob was a jagged tear, ripping through the seams of her heart at the realization that her mother hadn''t been graced with death but had been cursed to be a part of a monster this entire time.


    This same action, this same realization, began to spread like a plague through the coven.


    It wasn''t just one or two coven members, but dozens, who started to break down and it wasn''t even all their loved ones they had found, just fragments, pieces scattered among the hundreds of corpses.


    Yet, even in these rare moments of reunion, there was no joy to be had, no relief.


    The satisfaction of recovering fragments of their past was hollow, overshadowed by the monstrous truth that these loved ones had become part of this horrific, twisted world.


    It hurt, not because their family members were dead, not because they held their amputated limbs and body parts in their embraces.


    It hurt because they were right.


    Sometimes, deep in your mind, you have this nagging feeling that something so outlandish, so unimaginable, just can''t be true, that it''s impossible.


    But when that truth slams into you with an undeniable force, it shatters everything you believed.


    And that is the most painful truth of all.


    Even when the truth was laid bare before them, even with the Ordo Dracium revealing the full extent of their deeds and their purpose in attacking, a part of them still wished to believe it was all a lie.


    Though these witches and warlocks knew they were made of human flesh, fragmented, twisted, they couldn''t help but cling to that small shred of hope that it wasn''t true, that their family had been spared this horror.


    But the truth, as painful as it was, always cuts deeper than any lie.


    And as they held their loved ones'' severed body parts in their arms, they all understood, without a doubt, that everything they had been told was the cold hard unrelenting truth.


    There was no clinging to hope that it could be something different, no imagining some twist or turn.


    This was their reality, and it f*cking hurt.


    It shattered their hearts, tore at the very core of their souls, knowing that a part of their loved ones, their family, those they had grown up with and poured endless love into, had been living as these monstrous beings all along.


    They all began to break down, struggling to cope with this brutal reality.


    Yet, ironically, they were the ones who had it easiest compared to the others.


    The coven members who suffered the most were those still desperately searching through the mountains of corpses, only to find not a single piece of closure.


    This harsh realization drove those who couldn''t find their loved ones to desperation, the fear gnawing at them that their families wouldn''t find peace today, but instead would continue to suffer tomorrow.


    It shattered their sanity, tearing through them all and one such warlock to be consumed by this was Dexter.


    "Dammit, dammit, dammit-" Dexter huffed, his arms buried up to the elbows in the flesh of Chimeras as he scavenged through the heaps of corpses, his gaze hollow and unblinking.


    "DAMMIT, DAMMIT, DAMMIT-" Dexter roared, his voice echoing the frustration and fury of all those still without closure as they relentlessly combed through the bodies, finding nothing but emptiness.


    He scanned through the corpses with brutal efficiency and he was the first to realize that his loved one, his little brother, wasn''t among them.


    The realization hit him like a punch to the gut as his gaze shifted toward the treeline where they had first emerged from.


    Without hesitation, Dexter took a step forward, his mind focused solely on one thing: finding his brother and laying him to rest.


    He didn''t care for anything else at that moment, nothing mattered but the search.


    BAM


    Before Dexter could take another step, Eldric tackled him to the ground, his weight forcing Dexter into the dirt.


    The older man pinned him down with surprising strength as Dexter fought against him, desperation in his eyes as his nails dug into the dirt.


    "Please, PLEASE!" Dexter screamed, his voice cracking with anguish.


    His eyes burned with tears, his body shaking, but Eldric stubbornly held him in place, his grip unyielding despite Dexter''s frantic struggles.


    "Now that''s enough, son. That''s enough," Eldric muttered, watching as Dexter pounded the dirt beneath him, each hit fueled by raw hatred and desperation.


    "LET ME GO, LET ME-"


    "If you mindlessly charge into that forest, who''s gonna be the one to finally lay your brother to peace, huh? Who''s gonna be able to find your brother without your blood, huh?" Eldric asked, his voice low and sharp as he shoved Dexter''s head further into the ground, pinning him down as the man''s struggles began to slow, his sobs still wracking his body like an anchor.


    Dexter''s breath came in shallow gasps, his fists clenching the earth, but Eldric''s words seeped into his mind, forcing him to stop.


    He wept, not from relief, but from the crushing weight of reality, his brother was gone, and no matter how much rage he poured into the earth, it wouldn''t bring him back.


    HIC


    HIC


    Dexter sobbed uncontrollably, the image of his little brother torn away from his grasp while he bled out before him, completely helpless as he screamed out towards him for help, replaying over and over in his mind.


    That helplessness, that desperation, it was as if the wound was fresh every time he remembered his little brother''s cries.


    Eldric, too, felt the weight of loss settle on him, and when he realized his daughter wasn''t among the bodies, it hit him like a cold wave.


    But even still, without hesitation, he tackled Dexter to the ground, using his strength to pin him down, trying to quell the man''s frantic desperation before it consumed him entirely.


    "It''s true-"


    Sniff


    "It''s f*cking true, they were using us for spare parts~" Dexter sniffled, his voice breaking as the harsh reality settled in.


    His fist clenched tightly into the dirt below, as if grounding himself against the overwhelming grief that threatened to swallow him whole.


    Sniff


    "We were used as parts!" Dexter yelled, his voice raw with the anguish of being reduced to nothing more than a tool as his entire being, once full of purpose, now felt hollow.


    "All those raids, all those battles meant nothing more than for us to become these monsters!" Dexter bellowed, his fury erupting like a storm, as the weight of the truth shattered him.


    "Why couldn''t they have just hated us?"


    "Why couldn''t they have just killed us?"


    "Why did they have to turn us into these f*cking monsters?"


    "What did we do?


    "What did any of them do to deserve this?"


    Dexter poured his hate into his questions, his voice mounting once after the other until he couldn''t stand it anymore and slipped into a blind rage.


    HUFF


    HUFF


    "WHAT DID THEY DO!" Dexter screamed, grabbing Eldric''s collar, shaking him violently as he tried to vent his rage.


    "WHAT DID THEY DO, TELL ME!"


    "TELL ME ELDER ELDRIC, F*CKING TELL ME-"


    "Nothing." Eldric interrupted him, his single word cutting through like a knife, breaking the angry facade Dexter had put up.


    The fury draining from him in an instant as that single word just unclogged everything and forced him to crumple to his knees, defeated


    His head fell to the ground once again, the weight of everything finally catching up to him.


    Slowly, he pressed his forehead against the soft surface of the field, repeating that same word that had started it all, his voice barely a whisper.


    "Dammit, dammit, dammit-"


    Ricky watched from the sidelines, his own silhouette emerging while watching Dexter''s breakdown as he remembered that vision and the sight of his family''s graves made his stomach churn.


    "You need to get to the Citadel," Ricky said suddenly, turning to Morgana as she sighed slowly, walking over to him and massaging his shoulders.


    "Ricky, we must be vigilant, not reckless," Morgana sighed, trying to calm him down and Alexander, too, began looking at the Chimera, as if following Ricky''s gaze.


    "Merlyn sent these hordes to slow you down-"


    "Did he?" Ricky suddenly said, a realization dawning on him as he slowly stood up and walked over to a Chimera corpse, one that was devoid of any human parts.


    A sudden, aching premonition swirled in his head as he approached it, drawing runes in the dirt.


    The others watched with raised brows, confusion etched across their faces, until Ricky held up his hand, signaling them to stop.


    "Get up."


    Ding


    (Rare Undead) Carrion Chimera: A grotesque fusion of scavenging beasts, the Carrion Chimera is a mindless abomination made from the remains of hyenas, wild dogs, and other carrion feeders, with a thrashing snake tail that drips with necrotic venom. Used as disposable shock troops, these creatures swarm battlefields, snapping at the heels of the living and overwhelming enemies through sheer ferocity. Though weak individually, their pack mentality and unrelenting hunger make them a persistent threat, harassing foes and softening defenses for stronger undead to finish the job.


    It was then that Ricky kneeled in front of the undead Chimera under his control, watching as it sat patiently and slowly, he reached down and carefully held another corpse.


    The reason for his actions became clear, the reason he sat so quietly at the side for so long, was because of a skill he had long forgotten, one that suddenly resurfaced in his mind.


    Flesh Weaving: A twisted reflection of mundane craftsmanship, this skill allows the user to rapidly assemble, repair, or modify objects using basic materials. However, each act of creation or repair draws upon the user''s life essence, draining their stamina as the magic demands payment from the very fabric of their being.


    The evolution of Quickcraft had morphed into this grotesque skill, one Ricky hadn''t expected as his hands began to glow with an eerie light, casting a faint, unnatural aura around them.


    The payment was his life essence, but even if he didn''t heal instantly, his technical immortality rendered the cost null and void.


    No matter how much was drained from him, the cycle always reset, making the price little more than an illusion, a toll that could never truly bankrupt him.


    The corpse of a Chimera, similar to the one he had already revived, began to convulse, its limbs twitching and jerking as the energy coursed through it, twisting its form back into motion under Ricky''s control.


    Crack


    Crack


    Ricky patiently molded the corpse like clay, his hands moving with focused precision, as the body of the Chimera slowly took shape under his control as the flesh shifted and reformed, guided by his will.


    Alexander watched with keen curiosity, his eyes narrowing as he observed the skill on display.


    Ricky had received this ability long ago but had never had the opportunity to use it as, weirdly enough, there had simply never been enough fresh flesh lying around to experiment with.


    Although it is discriminatory against these witches and warlocks, Ricky had to understand this unique skill as he stood up.


    "I don''t understand." Ricky muttered, placing the corpse of the Chimera he had turned into wearable armor onto his new undead, frowning as he tried to process it all.


    "Me too, how do you mold it in such a way like a blacksmith-" Alexander said in slight awe, weirdly entranced at how Ricky molded the flesh into make-shift armor.


    "No, Alexander, that''s not what I meant." Ricky interrupted him, standing by the side of the now slightly armored cannon fodder added to his ranks.


    "Doesn''t this feel weird? Doesn''t it feel like he''s just gifting it to me?" Ricky said, laughing at how absurd it sounded.


    "Pardon?" Alexander raised his eyebrows, needing clarification as Morgana started to laugh.


    "Ricky, do not be misconstrued, Merlyn-"


    "But it doesn''t make any f*cking sense, literally none." Ricky said, gesturing towards the Chimera now under his control.


    "Don''t you understand it too? Why would he send these to me? Do you really think that smart-ass Merlyn would do it just to slow me down?" Ricky said, his tone laced with disbelief as he glanced back at the newly animated chimera.


    Alexander''s brows furrowed at the assessment, rubbing his chin as he thought it over.


    The more he thought about it, the more tedious and illogical it seemed to waste cannon fodder like this, not just to waste time, but for what purpose?


    What was Merlyn even stalling for?


    "What if he''s intentionally strengthening you?" Alexander suddenly asked, looking up at Ricky as Morgana chuckled softly.


    "HA!" Morgana laughed, seeing it as the joke it was but Ricky actually nodded his head.


    "No, no, he''s right." Ricky pointed at Alexander, pacing around as he shook his head.


    "He basically handed me the Ebony Crown and Ebony Shield on a silver platter, sent only four powered guys after me that became my Dullhan, and now he sends me this weak wave of Chimeras that we easily tore through?" Ricky asked, listing off all the things that were supposedly being thrown at him, but in reality, it seemed more like a gift wrapped in a custom bow with a tag from Merlyn himself.


    "It doesn''t make f*cking sense if it''s not that."


    "I think Alexander''s right. I think he''s actually making me more, well, powerful." Ricky said, his voice tinged with disbelief as the absurdity of the idea settled in as he paused, coming to terms with this strange realization.


    "When I say it out loud, it sounds f*cking ridiculous, but-" Ricky began, only to trail off as a creeping thought began to permeate the air, forming a question that lingered in their minds.


    At what point does your enemy ever actively seek to empower you?


    "My father would never do such a thing! HE WOULD NEVER CREATE SUCH HORRID CREATURES!" Lady Roma shouted, her voice sharp and filled with fury as she overheard Ricky''s statement.


    Asterion, standing nearby, calmly walked beside the floating Chastiefol, which obediently moved toward her in response.


    "He''s a good man and-"


    BAM


    Without hesitation, Morgana swung her fist and clocked Lady Roma across the face, sending her crumpling back into her own unconsciousness, knocked out cold once more, and the remaining part of her words lost in the impact.


    "Honey, the adults are speaking." Morgana smiled, patting Lady Roma''s unconscious cheek mockingly before turning back to the others.


    But as she did, her expression slowly shifted, her eyes widening in realization.


    Although those two couldn''t have known this fact, every year Camelot commemorates Arthur Pendragon''s death.


    They hold a festival brimming with life, fireworks lighting up the sky as Morgana always watched from Castle Le Fey, like a mere outsider in her own home.


    However, there''s a myth, a child''s story that emerged during the first festival.


    It says that if a great threat ever looms over Camelot, during the city''s greatest time of need, Arthur Pendragon will return to protect it.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Morgana suddenly burst into uncontrollable laughter, her voice echoing with madness.


    "No, NO!" Morgana sounded almost deranged, unable to believe what she was saying as she laughed hysterically, the glittering fireworks flashing in her mind.


    "What? Don''t leave us hanging, say it," Ricky said, clearly feeling out of the loop, his curiosity piqued.


    Alexander, equally confused, watched Morgana closely as she clamped her mouth shut, shaking her head in disbelief and yet, humored them.


    "There is this story, a child''s bedtime story concocted to soothe the troubled hearts of the young children, and I came across it when I still had spies in the city," Morgana said, shaking her head and crossing her arms at the stupidity of it.


    "But it''s just a mere fairy tale to lull children to sleep during the festival." Morgana said, her black hair swaying with the shake of her head.


    "..." Ricky and Alexander both looked at each other, then back at Morgana, before scrunching their brows at the same time.


    "Don''t leave us hanging."


    Sigh


    "It is nothing really, it tells of Arthur and how he sacrificed his life to save Camelot, giving his life for the great city and infusing his will into it." Morgana continued, her voice tinged with bitterness and slightly mockery.


    "And one day, when Camelot needs to call upon him once again, it will be in its greatest time of need against its greatest threat."


    "The f*ck?" Ricky frowned, exchanging a confused look with Alexander as Morgana''s laughter slowly dwindled since she didn''t find the memories coursing through her mind funny anymore.


    This was because, at one point in time, Morgana had been considered a threat to Camelot herself.


    When Camelot shifted into Otherworld and became situated in the land now called Avalon, she relentlessly attacked Camelot from the land of Gorre for nearly two to three centuries.


    Of course, she failed, but in the last battle where she once again didn''t succeed, Morgana now realized that Merlin''s face wasn''t one of rage, but of utter disappointment.


    It was as if he wasn''t angry that she attacked Camelot, but disappointed that she continued to fail.


    Up until this moment, Morgana had believed she had been sealed in Castle Le Fey because she was a threat.


    But now, that wasn''t the case.


    Because if Merlin was purposely strengthening Ricky, could there have been a time when he had been strengthening her too?


    Was that why he so readily agreed to teach her in the first place?


    "Am I not a worthy threat?" Morgana suddenly spat out bitterly, her voice sharp with resentment as she glared at the two as her question hung in the air, heavy with unresolved frustration.


    "Yeah, that''s what I don''t get, cause if anyone wants Camelot-" Ricky agreed, scratching his head before Alexander''s eyes widened.


    "I think that is the point." Alexander realized, looking at Morgana with wide eyes.


    "Morgana is not a threat to Camelot, but to Arthur, to Merlyn." Alexander pointed, his voice urgent as Morgana''s eyes widened in shock as the realization hit her, her breath catching.


    "You never had aspirations of destroying Camelot, but of ruling it." Alexander contieud, piecing his theory together amidst their very eyes.


    "You wanted to sit atop its throne. Why would you ever be a threat to it?" Alexander pondered, his voice trailing off as he tried to piece the puzzle together as Ricky frowned, his mind racing to connect the dots.


    "So Merlyn basically realized this fact one day-........ and sealed her away in the castle, sh*t." Ricky''s words grew quieter the more he spoke, his realization heavy in the air.


    Morgana just stared off into the distance, her expression unreadable, while Alexander ducked his head, as if processing the weight of it all.


    "Wait, so Merlyn sealed her away not because she was dangerous, but because she wasn''t a threat?" Ricky asked, rubbing the back of his head, his voice filled with confusion.


    "It appears so." Alexander''s eyes softened, closing them as Morgana started to laugh as she shook her head.


    "No, that does not make any sense, for I attacked Camelot multiple times-"


    "But did you ever wish for its destruction?" Alexander asked the question once more, looking at Morgana who opened her lips and closed it just as fast.


    "I mean, yeah, you attacked Camelot not because you hated it, but because you wanted it," Ricky said, driving the thought into her mind as Morgana pressed her fingers to her forehead, her laughter slowly fading as she processed the truth.


    Slowly, Morgana grew very, very quiet as the realization, though faint, began to loom over her but that''s when Ricky thumped his chest, breaking the silence with his own reasoning.


    "But I don''t wanna fcking destroy Camelot, I just wanna fck up Merlyn." Ricky said, frowning at this theory as to why Merlyn had gone to such lengths in the first place.


    "Yes, yes you do." Alexander muttered, rubbing his chin while pacing around since Ricky made a good point.


    From Alexander''s perspective, it made sense that he would come here since Ricky''s journey had been shaped by his retaliatory nature, with most of the conflicts he found himself in stemming from it.


    But what Alexander couldn''t yet piece together, despite his many observations, was something that set Merlyn apart from him at this moment.


    Whenever Ricky retaliated against anyone, it was true that he never completely destroyed the foundations on which the individuals he went after stood.


    He never obliterated their entire existence, not in a way that would cause their systems, their beliefs, or their essence to entirely collapse.


    But if you looked deeper, really peered into Ricky''s actions, the difference became clear.


    Because every time Ricky faced an enemy, be it Xarus, Dracula, or even Dewey, he didn''t just kill them.


    He dismantled them in a reckless and powerful way.


    It took time, yes, but he always did it and in doing so, he never outright destroyed the foundational beliefs or systems those enemies represented, but he shook them to their core.


    Xarus didn''t just have his rebellion defeated before it could even start, he had his entire foundation, the Jewish mob he had once controlled like puppets, completely unraveled and consumed by Lucky.


    Manhattan was completely consumed by the Luciano Family and absorbed into the criminal empire it was building upon today.


    With Dracula, it wasn''t just the fall of the vampire lord.


    It was the disintegration of the faction that had followed him as the structure of the vampire community itself was twisted and reformed.


    It wasn''t just destruction; it was a transformation.


    Ricky had accidentally fractured that entire empire, leaving behind a broken mess that was consumed by Lilith and Veredelt, leaving no space for Dracula''s reign to exist as it once had.


    And when Ricky went after Dewey, it wasn''t simply about taking down a man, it was about cracking the very foundation of the U.S. law and government.


    He didn''t obliterate it, no.


    Ricky cracked it wide open.


    Ricky''s actions, while seemingly personal, reverberated through the entire system, creating cracks that would be felt for generations.


    The ripple effects of his actions created a precedent that would shape civil law for years to come.


    Even a hundred years later, his confrontation with Dewey would be used as a key example in any civil case.


    Ricky had unknowingly become a part of legal history, a catalyst for change that forced the system to adapt and evolve in response to his mere revenge.


    Merlyn was utterly fascinated by this because Ricky wasn''t like any other threat.


    He didn''t just take down a person, a leader, or a faction, he touched and fondled the very essence of what they were, fractured their foundations, and changed the world around them.


    And that was a true threat.


    It was something Merlyn had been seeking but even then, he wasn''t interested in destroying Camelot outright.


    What he wanted, what he needed, was someone who could tear it apart, shake it to its core, and perhaps reform it into something else entirely.


    Ricky''s pattern of targeting individuals, the ones who held power, would eventually, in Merlyn''s mind, lead to the same thing: Camelot being transformed under his threat.


    It might not crumble in a traditional sense, but its very foundation would be cracked, and the once unshakable kingdom would be vulnerable, unable to remain untouched.


    And that was exactly what made Ricky dangerous to Camelot.


    Because he didn''t just threaten its figures, he threatened everything Camelot stood for.


    That was the kind of power Merlyn was drawn to, the kind of power he wanted to mold and shape into his own design.


    They didn''t understand it, but Merlyn looked through the orb with even more interest as he observed Ricky''s ability to manipulate the flesh of the Chimera''s, understood this completely.


    Of course, Merlyn knew a mere horde wasn''t enough, he knew mere cannon fodder wouldn''t be enough to stop Ricky because that wasn''t the point of it.


    He wanted to witness every surprise Ricky could offer, and that''s why Merlin hoped to be surprised when Ricky eventually came to Camelot, because, in the end, he didn''t care.


    It wasn''t about victory or defeat anymore, it was about what Ricky could become.


    That''s why he swiped the view away, shifting his focus to the approaching hordes, the slower, the stronger, more methodical Chimeras stampeding toward the forest.


    "Good, this shall be enough cannon fodder for him," Merlin muttered, swiping the view across the orb.


    But just before Merlin could further develop Ricky into a more suitable threat, a question formed within the orb, monitoring the three again, as it escaped Alexander''s lips.


    "You wish to get back at Merlin, I understand that," Alexander said, his gaze steady as he looked at Ricky.


    "But what would make you a threat to Camelot? What would push you so far?" Alexander paused, knowing that Ricky wasn''t the type to destroy everything in his path out of pride and up until this point, Merlyn hadn''t pushed any of his buttons that far.


    However, as the question lingered, Merlyn''s eyes slowly shifted, narrowing as the cause of it all became clear, the domino that would push Ricky to such hatred as the reflection in his view was undeniable.


    When Ricky asked Morgana to check in, her vessel only supervised his family, but the problem was that Ricky''s retaliatory mindset didn''t just fall under his family.


    But friends as well.


    At Brooklyn Port,


    Chores stood on the cliffside, admiring the view, but his attention was divided.


    Instead of simply enjoying the scenery, his eyes kept flicking to his watch, the seconds ticking away with a sense of urgency.


    A sudden flash of light cut through the air, drawing his focus as Chores squinted, raising his hand to shield his eyes, as shadowy figures began to emerge in the distance.


    The approaching wasn''t like the usual ones the coven wore, a detail that immediately set his senses on edge.


    His fist clenched instinctively, the weight of his connection to Ricky and the figures that often followed him tightening in his chest.


    But as the figure moved closer, Chores'' grip slowly loosened, his gaze softening as he recognized who was approaching.


    "Samuel?"

 Chapter 188 - 178: Rolling Hills Part 1

    Chapter 188 - 178: Rolling Hills Part 1


    "Samuel?" Chores unclenched his fists, a wide smile spreading across his face as he recognized the man who had called him here today, Samuel Frost.


    "H-Hello, Chores," Samuel stammered, his face pale as he nervously rubbed the back of his palm.


    "I know we already had this conversation before, but I thought you''d give me a little more time for the budget." Chores said, his tone lighthearted, forming a narrative in his head as if going off their last discussion.


    In his mind, Chores assumed Samuel had called him to discuss the budget as he was still juggling numbers, trying to make everything work with the limited funds they had, at least until Ricky returned so that they could hold out their hands once again.


    "I know, I did say that." Samuel muttered, his breath cold as he fidgeted in place.


    "Are you okay?" Chores took a step forward, scrunching his brows at Samuel, who ducked his head.


    "You''re looking a little pale, almost like you''re about to vomit," Chores said, his voice lined with concern since Samuel looked sick to his stomach.


    Being the decent guy he was, he reached out toward Samuel, only to notice the slight tremble running through him.


    "Chores, you are my only friend," Samuel suddenly confessed, his voice trembling with an unsettling sincerity.


    Chores simply blinked, caught off guard by the sudden proclamation, and unable to respond until he finally thawed out from his own shock.


    "Your only friend? What are you talking about-"


    "I-I usually keep a distance from everyone due to my research and work." Samuel continued, his voice wavering as if he were confessing a long-held sin.


    He seemed unable to engage in an actual conversation with Chores, instead rambling on, lost in his own thoughts, his own confession, as the words tumbled out.


    "And although our interactions always seemed brief, like passing words, I truly consider you my only friend." Samuel rambled on, trying his hardest to stand there and talk to Chores but the words continued to pour from his mouth like some sort of floodgate that had burst open.


    As if he were laying bare a sin, turning this moment into his own personal confessional.


    Samuel struggled to contain it, his voice unsteady, as if years of bottled-up emotions were finally breaking free.


    "Samuel?" Chores furrowed his brows, confusion creeping in as he had never seen Samuel like this before, and a hint of worry settled in his chest.


    But it wasn''t just the strangeness of the situation or the eeriness of the desolate meeting spot, it was genuine concern for Samuel himself, as Chores wondered if he was in the midst of a nervous breakdown.


    "I didn''t think you deserved to be there," Samuel admitted, ducking his head, struggling to get the words out.


    But as Samuel pressed on, Chores exhaled slowly, realizing that the man before him needed to speak his truth before he could respond, as if he had unconsciously stepped into the role of a priest, patiently waiting to hear his confession and forgive him for his sins.


    "When you first arrived at the alchemy guild, I saw you as nothing more than an outsider, someone who merely followed another outsider," Samuel confessed, fidgeting with his fingers but when he tried to look up at Chores, a wave of shame washed over him, forcing his gaze to drop once more.


    "I thought you were holding everyone back, always wandering around like you didn''t belong," Samuel continued, recalling the early days when Chores tried to immerse himself in the coven''s work.


    He could still remember how the witches and warlocks dismissed him, and even he himself had done the same, refusing to offer help or guidance.


    When Chores first arrived at the coven and its alchemy guild, he wasn''t met with open arms, but with begrudging disdain.


    Ricky was the only reason he was even allowed entry into their noble doors, and many of the members saw it as an insult.


    To the coven, Ricky wasn''t initially seen as the respected figure he became after defeating Dracula.


    Before that, he was nothing more than Agatha''s gigolo, a label that stuck to him in the eyes of many.


    But instead of feeling that disdain himself, the one who truly bore the brunt of it was Chores.


    They couldn''t outright hate Ricky, especially after he fathered Agatha''s child, but they could, and did, turn their disdain on Chores.


    "But what I eventually came to admire about you wasn''t just your persistence in waking up every day to complete the meaningless tasks we scornfully assigned you." Samuel continued, his voice softening at the memory.


    Softening at how they always gave him the most brutal cleaning tasks, but Chores always found a way to finish them, time and time again.


    From scrubbing the ash marks off the fireplaces to cleaning the endless piles of broken shards of glass, Chores literally went above and beyond.


    It was because of this effort, this sheer dedication to not be left behind, that had forced the coven to slowly acknowledge his presence, even if begrudgingly at first.


    Chores'' persistence was impossible to ignore, and though they resented him at times, they couldn''t deny the value he brought, even if it was in ways they hadn''t initially understood.


    "But the thing that made me grow to respect you was the fact that you were resolute in your respect towards our coven," Samuel genuinely said, remembering how when Ricky entered the fold, he never seemed to care about their values or traditions as he always did his own thing.


    Chores, on the other hand, embraced the coven''s traditions and customs whole heartedly, following them with a quiet dedication that earned Samuel''s respect.


    "Anyone can understand their own weaknesses and seek to improve them, but I think it takes a real man, a sophisticated man, to go above and beyond without hiding behind others." Samuel genuinely praised Chores in this moment, showing a hint of a small unwillingness that faded just as fast as it bloomed.


    "Many ambitious people think that their desires are the only thing that matters, but when you first came to the alchemy guild, you didn''t try to be different." Samuel paused, his voice growing more contemplative as if struggling to come to terms with his choices the more he talked.


    "You didn''t try to change how the guild flowed, how the coven flowed, and unlike your friend Ricky Luciano. You adopted our ways." Samuel''s voice shook as he spoke, reflecting the same steady stream that Chores followed within the coven.


    Even now, Chores continued to honor their practices, paying respect to his ancestors, joining them on their most holy days, and even sourcing various materials for coven members who struggled to find the proper ingredients for equipment and spells in this new metropolitan area.


    "You learned from us, starting at the very bottom as a mere scrubber, and worked your way up," Samuel said, his voice filled with quiet admiration as he couldn''t help but reflect on how much longer he had struggled at the bottom ranks compared to Chores, whose resilience had pushed him forward so much faster.


    "But what I truly admired was how you didn''t rely on Ricky Luciano''s influence, you took the path that all of us had to undergo when rising through the ranks." Samuel sniffled, wiping his eyes slightly and continuing to ramble on.


    "From a scrubber, to a field hand, to an assistant, to a student, and then a researcher, but you didn''t stop there, you started applying your research to our inventions, bringing something fresh and valuable to the table." Samuel listed, almost coming to terms with his decision and paying tribute to all of Chores sacrifices with this incessantly long monologue.


    "How you didn''t insult us when you didn''t understand something, but instead, you sought to improve it. You came to us first for permission, to avoid defacing us in any way when wanting to adjust our tools." Samuel continued, his words heavy with sincerity as his teeth gnashed together.


    "That three-year term was a time of change, a time where no one knew what was going to happen or how it would affect the coven." Samuel added, pausing as if lost in the memory, reminiscing about the time when the lines weren''t drawn in the sand.


    "You were one of the only pieces that didn''t seek to harbor change but instead sought to improve your surroundings." Samuel took a deep breath before continuing before finally looking up towards Chores, finally having the courage.


    "I do not like change, I''m not a fan of it, and in fact, I am against it even now," Samuel said, his tone steady, though his words carried a weight he hadn''t fully realized until now.


    He expected Chores to react, to show some sign of disagreement, maybe even frustration at not even letting him have a single sentence in, but what he saw instead was the smile Chores wore, a smile that, for a moment, felt more genuine than any he''d expected.


    But then, something broke within Samuel and with it, his voice faltered like the shattering glass in his soul.


    "But I-.....I''m sorry."


    The words felt like they tumbled out of him unwillingly as the apology wasn''t something he had planned, but as he looked at Chores, who stood there, patient and considerate, he couldn''t help but feel a wave of shame wash over him.


    "I''m so sorry~" Samuel covered his face, unable to believe the vulnerability that had slipped from his lips.


    Chores looked at him, surprise evident in his eyes, as if he hadn''t quite understood what was happening.


    "Hey, Samuel, listen." Chores'' voice was firm but gentle, a sharp contrast to the emotional storm brewing inside Samuel.


    "I''m sorry." Chores suddenly said, surprising Samuel completely.


    The apology came out so unexpectedly that Samuel froze, staring at him in disbelief, as if his world had suddenly shifted in a way he couldn''t quite comprehend.


    Samuel blinked, his mouth opening and closing as he struggled to find the right words as he hadn''t expected this turn of events at all.


    "I didn''t realize you were going through this rough patch," Chores admitted, his tone heavy with regret.


    "I think I just became so consumed with trying to prove that I was the man I promised Slick I would be." Chores sighed, shaking his head as he couldn''t shake the feeling that his own ambitions had cast a cold shadow over his friend''s existence.


    "So much so that I took away from your own feelings, and I''m sorry for that." Chores rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly, his guilt evident, but his words were so sincere in their apologetic nature


    "I should''ve treated you like a better friend, like how you always treat me." Chores said with a small smile, patting Samuel''s shoulder gently.


    Samuel covered his eyes, clearly fighting to hold back the emotions that were threatening to overwhelm him as his guilt all but crashed down on his subconscious in this very moment.


    "I don''t know if this is a distant parallel to you leading up to me wanting to innovate the factories and how I''m always drawing funds, but I want you to know that if it''s too much, I''ll stop." Chores sighed deeply, the words feeling heavy in his chest.


    "I never meant to overshadow you with my obsession. I was so focused on trying to do something great that I might''ve crushed the good guy in front of me." Chores voice faltered slightly as he looked at Samuel, a sincere apology in his eyes.


    No one could truly grasp the gravity of Chores'' words except for the two men standing there, confiding in one another.


    But this was Chores'' dream, something he''d kept hidden for so long.


    It had been dismissed, overlooked, passed around in conversations here and there, but it was Chores'' heart, his vision.


    He didn''t just want to innovate, he wanted to revolutionize the entire manufacturing industry.


    Chores envisioned a factory that didn''t just churn out products but embodied the cutting edge of progress, one that could compete with the most innovative brands.


    This wasn''t just about machines or labor, it was about systems, about creating something that could thrive on its own, something sustainable and forward-thinking.


    He had been pouring over Daedalus'' notebooks and research, ideas on self-sustaining labyrinths, on how to build spaces that weren''t just functional but could maintain themselves.


    To Chores, the labyrinth was more than a structure; it was an ecosystem, each part connected, each piece feeding into the other.


    A labyrinth, at its core, is an intricate system composed of various components, including monsters.


    But these monsters aren''t just random creatures, they serve a purpose.


    They must have properties, qualities that allow them to thrive and function within the labyrinth, and these properties must come from the labyrinth itself.


    In return, the labyrinth caters to these creatures'' needs, and the monsters, in turn, serve the labyrinth by helping to sustain and protect its complex structure.


    In this symbiotic relationship, the labyrinth feeds the creatures, providing them with the necessary conditions to survive, while the monsters help preserve the labyrinth''s integrity.


    Chores wanted to use the concept of the labyrinth as the foundation for a groundbreaking innovation, a factory cycle that was not only functional but self-sustaining.


    His vision was to create a system where every part of the factory, from the workers to the products to the machinery, worked in perfect harmony.


    Each element would be interdependent, feeding into the other, creating a balance that would benefit all involved.


    The workers would thrive in an environment that catered to their needs, the products would be of the highest quality because of it, and the factory itself would run as smoothly as any well-designed ecosystem.


    Chores aspired to be a pioneer of innovation as he dreamed of applying the teachings of Daedalus, not just to the realm of architecture or alchemy, but to the real world of industrial production.


    Daedalus had understood the principles of self-sustaining systems, and Chores wanted to prove that these principles could extend far beyond the confines of mythical labyrinths.


    He believed that the future of industry lay in this interconnected, symbiotic approach, where everything, from the smallest cog to the largest machine, worked together for the greater good of the whole.


    He was passionate about this vision, excited by the potential it held for the world, and was tirelessly working toward making it a reality.


    Every step he took, every idea he refined, was driven by the belief that this innovation could change everything, for the better.


    But when it came to Samuel, his friend, Chores found himself at a crossroads.


    Despite his dreams and ambitions, he was willing to set them aside, to sacrifice them, because Samuel mattered more to him.


    Their friendship was greater than any breakthrough or success.


    Chores had always put his friends first, and even if it meant giving up his greatest aspiration, he was prepared to do so because that was the kind of guy Chores was.


    Be it Ricky, Barko, or Samuel, they were his closest friends.


    Chores didn''t get out much, and while he was gentle at heart, his towering, imposing figure often made others stay away.


    People saw his size before they saw his kindness, and that made it hard for him to connect but with Ricky, Barko, and Samuel, he found trust and camaraderie.


    They were the few who saw beyond his appearance, who understood the real him, and in return, he held onto them tightly.


    They were his anchor in a world that often seemed to misjudge him, and that bond was something he valued more than anything.


    "Samuel, I understand that it has been rough as of late, both with the coven and the company," Chores said with a soft smile, his expression full of understanding.


    "Every company goes through tough times, but I suppose I''ve been overlooking you, I suppose all of us have been overlooking you." Chores paused, his gaze thoughtful since Samuel had really been bearing the brunt of the stress as of late and he decided that it was his turn to take on his fair share.


    "We get so caught up in our own dreams and ambitions that we fail to really see what''s around us, the people who''ve been there all along." Chores continued, his voice steady but filled with regret.


    "I think I''ve had my head down for too long, and I should''ve looked up once in a while." Chores said, feeling almost relieved that he was having this conversation with Samuel as it really opened his eyes.


    "I could''ve been a better friend to you, and to Barko."


    Sigh


    "Y''know, Barko''s been struggling too as his research isn''t going well, and he keeps needing more funds but the more he takes from Ricky, the more worthless he feels." Chores sighed, knowing that even now Barko was combing over his findings.


    "Now that I think about, seeing the bay over there on the horizon, reminded me of him since he operates so-"


    "Chores, I didn''t call you here for any of that, this has nothing to do with the budget." Samuel interrupted him, his voice breaking as more people slowly started to gather around.


    "Aren''t these-.......coven members?" Chores suddenly asked, his gaze sweeping over the crowd.


    He recognized most of them, but one particular face caught his eye, Samuel''s grandmother, standing quietly in the back, watching him intently.


    Morgana Frost.


    "Honey, it''s time," Morgana Frost spoke softly, opening her arms, her voice gentle yet firm as she addressed Samuel.


    "Yeah, Sammy boy, it''s time," Samuel''s father chuckled, his voice laced with amusement as he wrapped his arm around Samuel, pulling him closer while sneaking a dagger into his cloak and yet, he almost refused to take it.


    Chores raised an eyebrow but took a step back, not wanting to get in the middle of their family drama.


    It wasn''t his place, and he respected that as he quietly observed, waiting for the tension to pass, to continue their conversation on whatever it is this whole thing was.


    "But I-"


    "Samuel, do it." Samuel''s father squeezed his son''s shoulder, his gaze intense, drilling into Samuel''s skull as a small chuckle echoed at the side.


    "Let my poor nephew have a second to breathe, it is his first kill, after all." Samuel''s aunt chuckled, lecturing her brother as if it were all part of a well-rehearsed script.


    It was in that moment, the casualness of their words, the way they spoke about something so heavy, that Chores'' suspicion began to grow.


    The air felt charged with something darker than he had anticipated, the reality of what was happening starting to sink in.


    Something wasn''t right, and he couldn''t shake the feeling that he was witnessing more than he was meant to.


    "First kill?" Chores suddenly asked, his brow furrowing as he looked at Samuel.


    The confusion was clear on his face as he watched Samuel grab at his hood, his hands trembling slightly.


    Samuel''s eyes flickered up, meeting Chores'' gaze for a brief moment as if telling him to run before Morgana Frost raised her hand to start the proceeding.


    WHOOSH


    Suddenly, the wind slashed through the air, the sound of something cutting sharply followed by a wet, slicing noise.


    Chores didn''t even realize it at first, the first sensation he truly felt was his body shifting to the right, followed by his balance faltering.


    It wasn''t until he slammed into the ground did he feel that sharp, searing pain that he realized something was terribly wrong.


    Looking down, it was as if his brain finally acknowledged the nerves within his body, reacting to the sight of the gaping wound where his left leg used to be as blood poured from the severed portion below his knee.


    "ARGH!" Chores grunted, the pain radiating through him as his hands instinctively reached for the severed portion of his leg.


    His warm, scarlet blood spilled between his fingers, and the overwhelming sensation of the injury made his head spin.


    The spell had cut his leg clean off, leaving only the bloody stump where it once was.


    Blood spurted from the fresh wound, staining the ground beneath him as Chores felt the veins in his neck pulse with a violent intensity, threatening to burst.


    His vision blurred with the pain, but he forced himself to look up at them, his gaze filled with a mix of disbelief and yet, seething with anger.


    "WHAT ARE YOU DOING-"


    Snap


    The sound of Morgana''s fingers snapping shut Chores'' mouth instantly, his voice cut off as the pain in his body grew more intense as he tried to struggle, but his throat constricted with an invisible force.


    The giant slowly looked up at Samuel, eyes wide in disbelief, as Morgana slowly forced the gleaming dagger that his father had been nudging towards him this whole time, into his hands.


    "Samuel, dear, it''s either him or your kin," Morgana whispered into his ear, her words soft but laced with a chilling finality, as she watched her grandson grip the dagger with trembling hands.


    Then, one by one, they slowly backed away, leaving Samuel alone with his decision.


    They could guide his hands, but they knew they couldn''t force him to drive the dagger into Chores'' heart, as doing so would strip it of its true meaning.


    It had to come from Samuel, it had to be his choice, his own sin.


    "I''m sorry." Samuel muttered, his voice breaking as tears welled in his eyes as he truly didn''t want this, didn''t want any of this.


    Those persistent thoughts of how Chores had always been there for him echoed in his mind, suffocating him with guilt as he realized he was about to stab him in the back.


    Chores shook his head, raising a hand as if to stop Samuel from going through with it, as though trying to convey that he didn''t have to do this.


    But the words wouldn''t come out, caught in his throat, strangled by the spell cast on him at Morgana Frost''s behest.


    "I''m sorry."


    Samuel repeated it over and over again, each word slipping from his lips like a desperate prayer.


    His hands shook as he gripped the dagger, and in the eyes of all who watched, he lunged forward.


    Chores, sensing the movement behind him, made his way to the edge of the cliff, his heart heavy with the realization of what was about to happen.


    Splat


    Be it his family members, be it Merlyn, and be it Chores, they all watched with varying expressions as Samuel dug the dagger into Chores'' heart, whispering something under his breath, an apology, assumed to be for all the pain he had caused.


    His words, though unheard by all but two, hung heavy in the air.


    The act itself seemed almost surreal, as if time had slowed to capture this singular moment of betrayal.


    Samuel''s face was a mask of agony, his grip tightening on the dagger as Chores'' body stiffened, blood seeping through the fabric of his clothes.


    Cough


    Chores coughed, his mouth forced closed as blood trickled down his nose as his hand shakily reached for the dagger, but Samuel''s hand shot out to stop him.


    Chores, though his body weakened, still grasped onto the dagger with a mixture of desperation and defiance, wiping his blood onto Samuel''s clean, now dirtied, hands.


    "Forgive me."


    Samuel only uttered those two words before he ripped the dagger out, an arc of blood following it.


    Then, with a final, heart-wrenching push, he sent Chores'' body tumbling off the edge of the cliff, towards the cold, dark waters of the bay below.


    The silence that followed was thick, suffocating as everyone watched, their expressions ranging from satisfaction to indifference, as the figure of Chores disappeared into the abyss of the bay below.


    Merlny, sitting in front of his orb, nodded slowly, a dark approval in his eyes as he observed the dagger''s fatal strike into his heart as the length surely killed him.


    "He passed." Merlyn''s voice rang out, cold and final as Morgana first heaved out a sigh of relief, her posture easing as the others around her nodded in quiet approval.


    "Come now, Samuel." Morgana beckoned, her voice soft yet commanding as she took a few steps toward him, her eyes scanning the blood that stained his clothes.


    She reached out, her hand caressing his face, attempting to warm the cold, pale expression that had taken root there.


    "We must prepare," Morgana Frost whispered, gently pulling Samuel away from the sight of Chores tumbling down the cliff, his body disappearing into the river below.


    Only then did Samuel turn his back, allowing Morgana Frost to guide him away, as Merlyn stood quietly, watching the entire scene unfold.


    But it wasn''t with acceptance but pity.


    This whole ritual, this so-called sacrifice for a ''greater purpose'' was nothing more than a sham.


    A carefully crafted lie.


    Merlyn didn''t see these people as chosen warriors or noble martyrs.


    He saw them for what they truly were: disposable pawns, engineered from birth to dwell in the shadows, never meant to bask in the light.


    They weren''t individuals with destinies; they were tools.


    Tools to shape a world that bent to his will, his plan.


    This was never about cultivating heroes, it was about manufacturing killers.


    Merlyn needed operatives who could carry out the things he found beneath him, things he found tedious.


    He needed people who could slit throats without hesitation, who could erase lives without a second thought, who could sever ties to their own humanity because, in truth, they had never been given one to begin with.


    And that''s what this ritual ensured, a breaking point, a test.


    Those who flinched, who hesitated, who still clung to some shred of morality, they weren''t failures.


    They were simply human.


    This entire thing wasn''t an initiation into something greater, it was a condemnation, a silent decree that they would never have a place in the Holy Kingdom, never be welcomed into the golden halls of Avalon.


    They were not knights, not chosen warriors of prophecy.


    They were tools, minions.


    Only those within Camelot, the ones Merlyn had carefully selected, propped up, and molded into his vision of purity, would see the golden light of promise.


    Only they would know honor, glory, and the illusion of righteousness.


    The rest?


    They were forged for the dark and thus, discarded when the light would ensue.


    Meanwhile In Otherworld,


    "Yeah, I don''t know, I wouldn''t just completely wreck Camelot cause he threw a crab monster at my shores, I just wanna cap him to make sure he doesn''t do it again." Ricky said, shaking his head at the two of them.


    Although his intentions weren''t simply to warn Merlyn, Ricky was resolved to kill him.


    He knew all too well that leaving someone who had already attacked you would only bring more trouble down the line.


    He''d learned that lesson the hard way from Dewey and Joe Bananas, both of whom had shown him the dangers of letting people who crossed him alive.


    Although Ricky was petty and a bit cruel, he wasn''t about to burn all of Avalon to the ground just because one guy was messing with his stuff.


    He wasn''t pushed that far, yet.


    "Well, whatever the case, we''ll find out along the way so let''s get going." Ricky hopped to his feet, looking forward only for Morgana to once again try to wrap her claws around him.


    "Ricky, there isn''t a need to rush-"


    "I don''t wanna waste time, I just know that old man is doing something right now, I can just feel it, in my f*cking nuggets." Ricky said, impatience lining his voice as he literally felt something stirring within his balls.


    "I understand that, but you still need to absorb these undead into your army." Morgana replied, her tone steady, though her eyes were sharp with the knowledge of what needed to be done.


    "Morgana-"


    "I assure you that once we cross this threshold, I will make my way towards the Citadel and come back for the siege," Morgana gently said, her voice calm yet firm, soothing Ricky''s impatience.


    "But bolstering your army against Camelot is paramount since even if Merlyn is giving you this power, it doesn''t change the fact that he won''t hand over his life, much less Camelot, without a fight," Morgana urged, Alexander nodding from the side as he agreed with this statement.


    "Morgana is right Ricky, for the coming battle you need cannon fodder and-"


    "Oh, can it. I know you just want more troops under your little newly created legion," Ricky scoffed, seeing through Alexander''s whole act.


    Ever since he had turned the Chimera over to his servant and started grafting human flesh onto it, Alexander had been almost drooling, fantasizing about what he could do with it.


    "But is this not a perfect light infantry battalion for the legion?" Alexander hopped off Bucephalus, gesturing toward the mindless Chimera.


    "Although they could not compare to my warbeasts of the past, they could easily disrupt formations and-"


    "Alexander."


    "Even now, I can visualize where I would put them-"


    SIGH


    "Yeah, he''s gone." Ricky sighed, knowing that Alexander was lost in his own world, practically bouncing with excitement over the possibilities of using the Chimera to herd his forces in battle.


    "Ricky, it''s going to be alright." Morgana hummed, walking up behind him and resting her head on his shoulder. She wrapped her arms around his waist, holding him tightly.


    "I promise." Morgana kissed the back of his ear, her fingers gently stroking his chin, but Ricky couldn''t bring himself to fully believe her words.


    Honestly, now that he thought about it, taking advice from someone who had been constantly bested by the very person he wanted to kill didn''t seem all that reasonable.


    Morgana was hot, sexy, and definitely boosted his powers, but as he thought more on it, he realized that she was only truly effective as a sub-commander, someone who could work under someone like Asteiron or Alexander, but not necessarily lead in the way he needed.


    "Right now, you need to increase our-your army." Morgana immediately overstepped, causing Ricky to let out a long, drawn-out laugh.


    Ricky immediately clutched the hands wrapped around his waist and slowly unhooked them, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.


    "Alright, let''s get something clear."


    "First of all, you''re f*cking smoking, and even now, I''d prop you up against that tree and just go to town." Ricky said first as if it was the most important thing, giving her the dues that gorgeous body deserved


    "But this, all of this, is mine." Ricky spread his hands, gesturing towards the coven, then to his undead, and even to Asterion.


    Cough


    "No offense Asterion-"


    "None taken." Asterion waved it off, understanding what Ricky meant as he turned back to Morgana, crossing his arms.


    "Listen, you''re strong and I totally just want to use you in more ways than one, probably like six or seven just off the top of my head, but just ''cause we boned doesn''t mean everything I have is ours." Ricky laughed, selfish and greedy to his core as he didn''t even share a joint bank account with Lucky, let alone Morgana.


    "Your sh*t is yours, and all of this is mine." Ricky proclaimed, drawing the very land between them with an actual line.


    "You wanna share, fine, we can share, but that''s after I trust you, ''cause I don''t." Ricky revealed, looking directly at Morgana.


    Despite their intimate moment, he knew the truth, they were just using each other.


    Ricky used Morgana''s body to gain power and Morgana used Ricky to get her claim to the throne, there was no love, at least, not yet, or at least, from what Ricky perceived it to be.


    "I know what you''re doing, and I get how obsessed you are with getting on Camelot''s throne, but let''s make one thing clear." Ricky''s voice was cold, his eyes narrowing as they locked onto Morgana.


    "I only asked one thing of you, not to fight my battles, not to use your army, but to make sure nothing happens to my family while I settle my differences with Merlyn." Ricky''s eyes flared green, a clear warning that he wasn''t about to be manipulated, not this time.


    "And I swear to you, Morgana, if you don''t keep your end of the deal, I won''t keep mine." Ricky''s voice was low, almost forbidding as his gaze hardened towards her.


    "I''ll f*cking throw you back into that castle and lock you away just like Merlyn did." Ricky was brutal with his words as he took a step forward, his stance commanding, the air around him thick with warning.


    "Just ''cause I like sex, don''t mean I''m some pushover because of it. Not anymore, not after getting literal handfuls of busty babes around my arms, you''re just another one in the mix." Ricky''s usual playfulness was gone, replaced by this cold, almost disdainful edge that was rarely seen from his usual lighthearted approach.


    But in all honesty, Ricky wasn''t afraid to show his hand now.


    Ricky held the power, and Morgana needed him far more than he needed her and he wasn''t afraid to show it.


    Without their shared goal, she would become nothing but a liability, one he wouldn''t hesitate to discard if she didn''t hold up her end of the bargain.


    Merlyn wasn''t like Dracula, who remained unaware of Ricky''s true identity.


    Merlyn knew exactly who Ricky was in New York, and it wasn''t difficult to figure out the people close to him because of it.


    It all built up as the constant threats, the near misses, and that haunting vision of his family''s graves were slowly pushing him to the brink.


    These words, this worry, reiterated over and over again, because the memory continued to corse this his mind.


    Over and over again.


    Ricky couldn''t physically be in two places at once, but Morgana could, and that''s why he always emphasized this point.


    Merlyn had made Ricky realize just how weak his defenses were and unlike Camelot, New York was a sprawling, metropolitan mess.


    Ricky couldn''t fathom fighting a horde in such an environment, how it might take days, maybe weeks, to fight through them all, with the city so crowded and chaotic.


    It was nothing like a wide open clearing where battles could unfold with some semblance of order.


    "That was quite hurtful," Morgana said, holding her hand to her face as if trying to fake sadness, but Ricky could see right through it, she wasn''t fooling anyone.


    "But watch your words," Morgana continued, her eyes glinting a sharp purple as she fixed her gaze on him, a dangerous edge creeping into her tone.


    "I do not take kindly to be disrespected-"


    "Me neither." Ricky waved his hand, stopping her subtle sleight that was about to bubble up to the surface.


    "I ain''t asking you to be my f*cking slave, I''m asking you to hold up the bargain you came to me for." Ricky leaned in slightly, his expression unwavering as he wasn''t intimidated by her display of power, because it felt hollow to him since his danger sense didn''t even twitch, not a single tingle.


    "I get that you''re strong, but you are forgetting that you''re not strong enough, that''s why I''m here." Ricky said with a finality, slowly backing up to look at Morgana who was so half-hearted since she didn''t like to be relegated to such a task.


    The real reason she resisted cooperating with such a menial task was simple: it felt insulting.


    This wasn''t about her joining him in battle or taking the lead.


    No, it was about her being asked to monitor and report on his other family, his other women, keeping watch, making sure they were alright and to her, that was beneath her.


    Or maybe it was jealousy; it hadn''t been decided yet and couldn''t be ascertained.


    "Got it?" Ricky asked without asking, looking at Morgana who had no choice but to bow her regal pride and give into such a menial purpose.


    "Yes," Morgana begrudgingly admitted, her left eye flashing with a spark of purple, revealing that she had been lying the entire time.


    She could split her focus at the drop of a hat, and the power was clear for anyone to see.


    Ricky opened his mouth, ready to say something cutting, something demeaning, but the sight of Asterion shaking his head from the side made him pause.


    After a moment of reflection, he decided to swallow his frustration and listen to the advice and like a king, he would give in to his council, even if it grated on him.


    Sigh


    "Good." Ricky said, his voice heavy with resignation as he backed up, slicked his hair back with a swift motion, and silently accepted the situation.


    "I have a question, Ricky." Asterion said, raising his hand as Ricky glanced over at him and pointed, as if calling on him.


    "Shoot."


    "Would it not be beneficial to not play into the threat-"


    "I tried that, you probably missed it when you were off-.....doing whatever you do in your free time, but when we didn''t, the dickwad sent a f*cking Chimera to my shores," Ricky said, looking at Asteiron who had been a little out of the loop as he slowly nodded.


    "I see." Asterion rubbed his chin, understanding now as he tilted his head.


    "So if you don''t play into his game, he''ll retaliate and send Chimera''s-"


    "To my front doorstep, yeah, it''s a f*cking conundrum." Ricky muttered, pacing around while shaking his head.


    "This blows."


    To Ricky, it annoyed him that he was playing into his little game, his giant board game where he was being maneuvered like pieces.


    "Fine, whatever, let''s just keep rolling the dice," Ricky said, walking over to the wreckage only to see that Chuck had anticipated this already.


    Already gathering a pile of corpses at his ready, Chuck was tearing off the human parts alongside the disgusted Boney, tossing them aside to avoid incurring the wrath of the coven.


    But Ricky didn''t even entertain the back-and-forth with Chuck about him not knowing what he was talking about. Instead, he simply held up his hand.


    "Get up."


    Ding


    30 minutes later,


    Outside the forest, on the boundary of the treeline, sat Boney begrudgingly in a criss-cross applesauce position, using a knife to carefully slice away at a human hand before tossing it into the growing pile.


    "Stupid Chimera, no soul to devour," Boney muttered, his teeth clacking together in frustration.


    The entire fight had been a setup for him to feast on the souls of his enemies, only to realize, too late, that Chimeras didn''t have souls to consume.


    They were just walking, living automobiles, and when Boney went to devour his first kill''s soul, his mood was crushed by the harsh realization.


    Throughout the rest of the fight, his desire to slaughter his master''s enemies remained, but his bones just weren''t in it.


    Bam


    "Will you stop moping around? You are abstaining me from witnessing our master''s glorious plan unfold!" Chuck spat hatefully, his hand whipping out to smack Boney''s head clean off.


    The brute barely reacted, grumbling as he bent down, retrieved his skull, and placed it back onto his shoulders with a sluggish pout.


    Chuck, meanwhile, continued carving away at the human remains of the slain chimeras, his pile towering five times higher than Boney''s.


    Chuck''s movements were precise, almost reverent, each cut extracting not just flesh, but something deeper, something sacred.


    "I just thought I would devour-" Boney''s pout deepened, wanting to taste the sweetness of his victim''s misery.


    "How are you always so foolish?" Chuck interrupted, shaking his head in disgust as he paused, wiping the blood from his carving knife before finally looking at Boney.


    "Do you not understand what this means?"


    Boney tilted his head, the empty sockets of his skull reflecting nothing but confusion when gazing upon Chuck who was enlightened to such a degree that even the author of this very crappy fanfiction couldn''t even comprehend.


    Chuck exhaled sharply, exasperated beyond words as their master''s will was unfolding before them, and yet Boney remained utterly blind to its grandeur.


    How could Boney not understand?


    To Chuck, it was almost surreal since it always felt like their master''s will was bearing down upon them, and yet the brute stood there, tilting his head like a dog hearing a whistle beyond its range.


    "Carving the human parts from the dead chimera isn''t just about disposal," Chuck''s jaw clenched as he hissed, jabbing a bony finger at his towering pile.


    "It''s refinement, efficiency, every piece we carve is a piece of our master''s enemies stripped away, their souls efficiently siphoned as their suffering distilled into something greater." Chuck voiced beautifully, unable to put it into true words and yet, finding them anyways.


    "I-I don''t understand-"


    "It is practice!" Chuck bared his teeth, stepping forward as he spat, his voice rising with righteous fury.


    "To help us easily carve out the souls of our enemies and devour them, you buffoon!" Chuck revealed the glory behind Ricky''s doing as Boney stiffened, his skull rattling slightly atop his spine.


    His fingers curled tighter around the handle of his knife as he processed Chuck''s words, or at least attempted to and then after a long heavy pause, he realized.


    "Oh~" Boney said, understanding it like this as Chuck inhaled sharply, grinding his teeth.


    "Oh? OH!?" Chuck threw his hands up in exasperation, wanting to strangle Boney but keep himself in control, slumping back to his pile and getting back to his master''s glorious plan.


    SIGH


    "Master, why must I suffer with this fool?" Chuck muttered under his breath before returning to his own work, carving with far more purpose than his bumbling companion.


    Boney quickly turned to his own pile, now determined to catch up, hacking away with an energy that was more reckless than refined as Chuck stared at him for a long moment before dragging a hand down his face.


    "No, I mustn''t question his glorious purpose, I must focus on his will." Chuck muttered, getting back to work as his pile was dragged away by the new undead added to Ricky''s collection.


    DING


    Slowly, a Carrion Chimera arose at Ricky''s will, or at least what Chuck thought of it, morphing into the same litter as its other comrades, stretching over the hills.


    Exactly 969, fully armored in their brethren''s flesh, moved around like the automated undead as they were now under Ricky''s command as he sat there, gazing towards them all.


    It would''ve been more since the total that stormed him was around 3500, but about half of them were killed beyond recognition.


    Of that 1800, only the 969 had full bodies that Ricky wanted to use, while the others were transformed into armor.


    At first, the process was slow, but by the time he started converting the hundredth, it became much, much easier


    But the human remains were carefully cut off to please the coven members and stored in the coven''s magical storage bag by Eldric, who would take them back to the coven to put everyone at ease.


    Clap


    "Alright, f*cking finally." Ricky said, clapping his hands together after what felt like an unnecessary amount of time spent waiting to move forward.


    They hadn''t even made it into the forest yet, stuck right at the entrance, pacing and growing impatient.


    But now, at last, it was time to move.


    "Coven, you ready?" Ricky asked, pointing towards Eldric, who had their coven coming to terms with the whole situation.


    "Yes but-"


    "Great, Morgana, are you ready?" Ricky then turned back to Morgana, pointing at her as she simply crossed her arms and looked to the side.


    "Fantastic, Alexander are you ready-"


    "I have never been more ready in my life." Alexander seriously spoke, his eyes blazing for the thralls of war as Ricky clapped his hands.


    "And Asterion, are you ready!" Ricky said, happy to finally be moving forward again as Asterion smiled, happy he was happy.


    "Of course." Asterion said, holding up his thumb and standing next to Lady Roma, who was trying to yell something at Ricky, only for her mouth to be bound.


    It was sort of a trigger for Morgana to hear her voice, and every time she spoke, she would be punched across the face, resulting in Asterion saving the poor girl from any more brain damage by tying her mouth shut.


    "Then let''s just get on with it." Ricky said, walking forward as everyone marched behind him, stepping foot into the unknown domain ahead.


    The trees around them seemed to pulse with an unnatural energy, their branches swaying gently despite the absence of wind.


    It was a kind of beauty that almost felt wrong, too vibrant, too alive.


    Everyone, except for Ricky and Alexander, seemed entranced by the unnatural beauty of the place.


    The coven whispered in awe, their eyes wide with wonder at the spectacle of the vibrant trees and plants that lined their path.


    They marveled at the colors, these surreal textures, and the way the light filtered just right through the canopy of beautiful trees, casting strange patterns on the ground.


    Ricky, on the other hand, kept his eyes straight ahead, unfazed by the scenery.


    Trees were just that, trees, he didn''t see past the wonders and to him, it was all nothing more than a big ass obstacle that stopped him from just teleporting to Camelot.


    Alexander, though, stood still for a moment, his gaze drifting upward as a strange sense of familiarity washed over him, like the forest had been a part of his past, a place he had known once but had long forgotten.


    The feeling lingered, unsettling him more than the beauty around him.


    There was something about the trees, something that pulled at his memory, something he couldn''t quite place.


    Ricky''s makeshift army trudged deeper into the forest, the thick, almost suffocating atmosphere of the place closing in around them with every step.


    The silence of the forest was heavy, broken only by the faint rustle of leaves but as the group moved forward, something was off.


    Ricky, always alert, thinking some Chimera with an ugly face would jump out at him at any moment, so much so he was keeping The Ebony Blade unsheathed


    The more Alexander stood there, confusion etched across his face, the deeper the realization began to sink in.


    But it was too late.


    The second Alexander''s soul, his true, unfiltered life essence, crossed into the bounds of the forest, the very air seemed to pulse.


    His life essence, like a special vibration on the strings of the universe, rippled outward, reverberating through the entire expanse of the forest.


    It wasn''t unusual for living beings to enter this forest.


    The land had swallowed countless lives over the millennia, souls born and souls lost, their essences intertwined with the land in ways no one could truly comprehend.


    Every living being carried life force within them, but Alexander''s was different.


    It was unique.


    So much so that a being, long submerged in the bounds of nature itself, slowly stirred within the confines of an ancient groove of trees.


    A being that had not seen the world through her eyes, but rather her senses and yet, for centuries had finally had the will to open them, but her eyelashes seemed to struggle against the weight of time.


    Her form was almost human, yet impossibly intertwined with the very trees and vines that had grown around her, as if her essence had been absorbed by the forest itself.


    Or, maybe, was the forest itself.


    The struggle to open her eyes was evident; the roots and vines that had enshrouded her for so long snapped away.


    Her body, once wholly integrated into the natural world, was now emerging, taking form once more.


    It had been centuries since she had last felt the pull of the outside world as her eyes, though old and clouded with age, gleamed with a kind of ancient wisdom and a deep, aching yearning.


    There was a look of remembrance in her gaze, an echo of something that she had hoped would come to pass but never thought would come to fruition as she had watched it fail time and time again.


    But even then, with it the sight before her very divinity, her expression seemed to say she hadn''t expected this moment to come, hadn''t anticipated that her long slumber would end, that the world outside would call to her once more.


    And yet, it had.


    It''s why her cracked lips slowly rose up and with it, her voice came, barely a whisper, as though the words had to travel through the leaves and wind before they reached anyone''s ears.


    "Alexander?"


    The leaves whistled and rustled, softly carrying a name so beautiful and harmonious that it seemed to echo through the air, enchanting all who heard it.


    "The f*ck?" Ricky furrowed his brows, his confusion deepening as he turned back to expect Alexander also confused only to see something entirely different.


    The strong, unyielding general, who had always met challenges with confidence and no hesitation, now felt his heart sink into the pit of his stomach.


    To Ricky''s shock, the gerbil who had always stood tall and fearless was slowly starting to back away.


    Just as they crossed the threshold of the forest, Alexander, usually so resolute, began to actually retreat.


    Alexander''s trauma slowly began to surface, manifesting as a dark, unrelenting force that seemed to press down on him.


    Alexander fought to stand strong against it, but his mind was clearly weighed down by an unshakable shadow, one that seemed to grow with every passing moment.


    Ricky, watching this unfold, gripped the ebony blade tighter as even though his danger sense didn''t scream with urgency, he couldn''t ignore the unsettling sight before him.


    Alexander, usually so composed and unyielding, was reacting in a way Ricky had never seen before.


    "Alexander." Ricky asked, his eyes scanning Alexander''s still form with caution.


    The hesitation in his voice wasn''t just concern; it was a strange mix of suspicion and confusion, the way someone might approach a potential threat they couldn''t fully comprehend.


    "Yes Ricky?"


    "Why do the trees know your name?" Ricky asked, trying to stay composed, but his eyes were darting around, his suspicion growing as the wind stirred the branches, carrying an eerie whisper.


    "These aren''t simply trees-" Alexander began, his voice strained, but before he could finish, a faint smile tugged at the woman''s lips.


    The ground beneath her cracked, the long-settled dirt and mud shifting as she took a step forward, breaking free from the stillness that had bound her for so long.


    It felt as though she were approaching him through spirit, yet her physical form simply emerged from the grove.


    "It is you~" The trees spoke for her, whispering as the leaves weaved together, a chorus in sync with the women''s movements.


    She moved closer, and with each step, the earth seemed to bend to her will, like the very forest recognized her presence that wasn''t even there to begin with.


    Alexander''s eyes, the same ones that had stared down giants without flinching, shrank as the familiar weight of an old, lingering shadow slowly crept over him.


    It was like a dark cloud that had always been there, silently hanging above him, waiting for the moment to reveal itself.


    As the shadow took form, it loomed over him, pressing down with the same oppressive force that had haunted him for as long as he could remember, from the days of his childhood.


    "Alexander of Macedonia, you have finally returned~" The trees beckoned, their leaves rustling as the voice seemed to come from every direction.


    Ricky glanced around, confusion etching his face as the disembodied voice surrounded them.


    Even Morgana, who was often unfazed, paused mid-fit, sensing something far beyond the usual magic at play since even Merlyn should have had no reach here.


    The wind shifted, and the trees continued, their words laced with an eerie warmth that chilled Alexander to his core.


    "Oh, how I''ve waited, for so long, for the fated reunion of your revival~" The trees murmured, the warmth of their tone clashing with the cold dread creeping into Alexander''s veins.


    It was a sight to behold, even for Ricky.


    To him, to everyone, Alexander was always this larger-than-life, a figure of strength and confidence, wasn''t of mere myth, but a mere human as well.


    Ricky had never seen such a look on his face; fear, vulnerability, something rare and unspoken.


    The realization hit him like a cold wind: the legend that had walked beside him in battles, the man who had led them with a burning fire in his heart, was now confronted with something he couldn''t conquer.


    It was weird.


    In his mind, Ricky had thought that after gifting Alexander the legion, the past would be buried, that the grandiose display of power would sweep away any lingering shadows.


    After all, Alexander had always prided himself on rising above, moving beyond.


    But it seemed even Alexander couldn''t escape the scars of his past, scars that hadn''t even healed in death, leaving an unresolved wound that no army, no power could ever fix.


    "Gaea." Alexander muttered under his breath, his disbelief palpable as he had unknowingly walked straight into her domain.


    "What the f*ck is going on, anyone?" Ricky snapped, his gaze flicking between Asterion and Morgana.


    Asterion raised his hands in confusion, knowing the familiarity in the mother goddess but never truly encountering her, and Morgana shook her head, utterly baffled.


    "I-I didn''t think it was real, that the story was real." Morgana whispered, looking around since she always thought it was one of Merlny''s lies.


    "This is so dumb." Ricky muttered under his breath, shaking his head at how Morgana was really just playing it out and not just getting to the point.


    "Merlyn said he had a connection with the Mother Goddess Gaea and created this treeline, but I didn''t think it was true," Morgana said, her voice faltering as her entire belief system, once built on a foundation of concrete truths and lies, now teetered on the edge of disbelief.


    Snap


    "Wait, wait, I remember now, he was-"


    "My disciple~" The trees spoke, cutting Ricky off, their voice laced with a melodic tone as Ricky scowled, irritated at having the big revelation stolen from him.


    "Thanks for that, didn''t see that one coming." Ricky clapped his hands, giving the tree''s his mock thanks for beating him to the punch.


    "It is said that the mother goddess Gaea took Merlyn in as a disciple, but I assumed that was merely a story to legitimize his status as a priest within my tribe," Morgana whispered, her voice tinged with disbelief as she dug deeper into a backstory unknown to everyone except the two.


    The trees merely chuckled at this tinge bit, their eerie resonance filling the air, as if they knew more than they let on.


    "That is because it is, child," Gaea spoke, her voice smooth yet filled with an otherworldly weight.


    "He is my disciple, but the essence of life holds no religion for there is no belief in the life that flows through us all." The tree''s unknowingly gave way to the type of person Merlyn had always been, revealing a deeper connection and truth that no one had fully understood until now.


    "What are you doing? Why are you here, being all creepy and stuff?" Ricky asked, spreading his arms out to the trees like some kind of madman, but only receiving a soft, amused chuckle in return.


    "Why wouldn''t I be connected to my own domain, in my creation?" Gaea''s voice flowed through the forest, warm and unbothered.


    "If anything, I should be the one questioning you." Gaea tone carried the weight of a stern mother, gently reprimanding him, which only deepened Ricky''s frown.


    "That''s-.......that''s actually a fair point." Ricky muttered, wiping his mouth and shifting the blame from an actual forest, to the person who should''ve told them in the first place.


    "Aye, Morgana, what the hell?" Ricky immediately turned back to her, pushing the blame her way as she scrunched her brows in confusion.


    "How could you not tell us that this b*tch created this place?" Ricky continued, referring to Gaea with an unforgiving vulgarity, the anger in his tone making it clear that something about the situation deeply annoyed him.


    "Full offense." Ricky said towards Gaea, though instead of being insulted, she was rather amused by his brashness, her tone almost playful in response.


    While Ricky had no personal history with a strange figure who spoke through trees, the way her mere presence and tone had rattled Alexander was enough to ignite a deep-seated dislike for her.


    "I cannot account for all the blame, I thought Merlyn created Otherworld and merely spread out these half-truths and half-lies to confuse everyone around him!" Morgana said, flustered since how could she not be in such a state in the presence of the mother goddess responsible for all life essence in the world.


    However, at her words, the trees echoed a soft simmering chuckle as if unable to believe the words that came out of her mouth.


    "Merlyn acts as if he can create, but he knows nothing about the true beauty of life, only its hollow form." The trees chuckled, referring to the chimera''s lifelessly standing at the side as Ricky side-eyed them.


    "Well, I agree with ya there," Ricky muttered, knowing that if he was a monster, then Merlyn was a freak.


    "So, let me guess, you''re here to stop us," Ricky said, sighing as he readied himself, only to hear a chuckle in response.


    "Why would I stop you?" The tree''s curiously pondered, genuinely confused at such a train of thought as if it wasn''t obvious that a master should protect their once disciple.


    "Uh, because I am probably gonna kill Merlyn." Ricky truthfully said, unabashedly proclaiming his intentions as the tree hummed at such a thought.


    "I see, well, good luck."


    "...."


    "Are you not gonna, you know, stop us?" Ricky asked again, surprised since he thought they were about to be thrown down and he was going to fight some forest only to hear an even more confused response.


    "But why would I?" The tree''s reiterated, unable to see the logic even after Ricky explained it again.


    "I cannot stop life from dying, that is its beauty after all." The tree''s explained, knowing it would be hypocritical to prolong something that was designed to die.


    "Life buds, it blooms, it wilts, it dies, and the process repeats endlessly, even I will die one day." The tree''s continued, acknowledging that even the mother goddess would one day die.


    "I merely spoke to greet a former friend-"


    SPLAT


    To everyone''s shock, even the forest had rumbled slightly at it, but Alexander drove his tiny spear into his hand.


    The sharp pain jolted him out of his fear, and then, unrelenting, his anger surged forward like a famished tide, overwhelming him.


    "Do not speak as if you are my comrade, you are nothing of the sort!" Alexander proclaimed, huffing out his disdain, building up his courage that surged forth like the golden energy that spiraled around him when he used his adornment skills.


    "You are merely a conniving witch who whispers spells that tempt men and women alike." Alexander spat, wiping his blood on his fur as if to remember his weakness and look upon it if that fear ever rose back into his heart.


    "Do not listen to her words, they are filled with a hollow warmth, do not be fooled, even her love is but a placated lie." Alexander said, his voice steady but heavy with the weight of his past as he found himself standing amidst the wreckage of everything he had buried, pulling it out to face this woman once again.


    "Fair enough." Ricky nodded, believing every word of Alexander and even if he cared to check with his lie detection skill, it would still be the cold hard truth.


    Clap


    "Alright, everyone, stop listening to the talking tree''s and keep moving." Ricky clapped, the sound jarring everyone towards him as he got ahold of everyone''s attention.


    "Child, you truly do not believe-"


    "First off, if there''s anyone who doesn''t have a reason to lie, it''s Alexander." Ricky said as a matter of factly, marching forward as everyone weirdly followed, except Alexander who slowly beckoned Bucepahlus forward, walking side by side with Ricky.


    "And second, if Alexander says you''re a b*tch, you''re probably, without a doubt, a b*tch." Ricky''s logic was so illogical and yet, air tight as Alexander never had any reason to lie to him.


    Sure, Ricky had his own history, his own tragedies that he kept to himself, but never had Alexander shown himself to be anything but trustworthy as he had always been a solid presence, never leading Ricky astray.


    So, until proven otherwise, Ricky trusted him wholeheartedly.


    "What a peculiar fellow you''ve managed to befriend," The trees commented, their voice trailing through the air as they continued their slow, haunting march through the thin-spanning trunks.


    "It''s too bad he''ll end up like all the others, in time."


    The words echoed with a chilling finality, as if they already knew the inevitable fate awaiting everyone who stood by Alexander''s side, including Ricky.


    "This time it will be different, this time, I will be different." Alexander said as if it was a vow, resolving himself to change the course of fate.


    "Oh, I hope so, but as you know, hope is that of faith, not fate." The trees swarmed them all, their voices no longer filled with warm chuckles but rather the thralls of mockery.


    "Aye, tree lady, are you gonna start some sh*t or-"


    "No, I have a feeling that you will come to me in due time." The tree''s chuckled with a sense of foreboding, those words making Ricky annoyed and Alexander vigilant.


    Instead of lingering any longer, the trees suddenly quieted down, leaving the mystery hanging in the air, but a pungent fragrance of rage swirled around the tiny gerbil.


    Alexander had done the one thing he hadn''t been able to do in the past: confront her.


    And yet, even now, that whisper echoed through his mind, sending a wave of dread through him, as if he had been conditioned from childhood to fear it.


    "Hey, you alright?" Ricky asked, side-eyeing Alexander and pondering towards the gerbil who stewed in his own rage.


    "I am fine." Alexander said, becoming deathly silent as the words of Alexander slowly echoed within his mind when he was at his lowest point all the way back at the cave of regrets.


    "You know, a really cool guy once said to me, ''Right now you have a decision to make. Are you a man perpetually looking back at what he lost, or a man looking forward, to what he might become?''" Ricky smiled widely, reiterating the words that had stuck with him from so long ago as the gerbil wanted to glare but literally couldn''t, letting out a soft chuckle.


    "I didn''t think those words would come back to bite me."


    "Well, you said them to me, and I''m just so f*cking petty." Ricky laughed, nudging the gerbil as Alexander smiled slightly, looking down as Bucephalus slowly clopped forward.


    "Alexander, what''s going on?" Ricky finally asked, having been patient this entire time and finally deciding to be the first one to ask.


    Sigh


    "I knew Gaea, long, long ago." Alexander reminisced with a sad smile, remembering his past.


    "Well, how''d you come to know her?" Ricky asked, taking on the supportive role instead of the one who always needed to have his ass wiped.


    "I came to know all the patron Greek gods one way or another." Alexander subtly bragged, his exploits prompting a meeting with all the Greek gods at some point.


    "My father, Philip of Macedonia, had an ongoing vendetta with them, but although I wanted to hate them, to carry on the torch that was my father''s hate, how could I hate such divine beings?" Alexander asked this as a question, since it seemed only reasonable for a man so young to gaze up and idolize godly beings.


    "We both symbolized the Greek empire, through unity and belief." Alexander passionately spoke from the depths of his heart, pouring out what he truly believed when he first set out with his army.


    "Through my conquest, my reign, I''ve met them all be it Zeus, Ares, Hera, but the first one I ever met." Alexander left the end of the sentence hanging, as if able to properly tell a story and always leaving people hanging on their every word.


    "Was Gaea."


    "Wait but, if you knew Gaea was such a steel clad b*tch, then why did you throw that fit back with the guy who almost killed Asterion-"


    Snap


    Snap


    "F*ck, what was his name again?" Ricky asked, looking around for Asterion who smiled warmly.


    "Theseus." Asterion chimed in, oblivious to the Greek gods and their whims.


    In all honesty, Asterion had only ever interacted with demi-gods since the gods only ever saw him as a wild beast meant to prop up their bastards as heroes.


    Asterion was really ignorant of the pantheon he originated from but even that was probably for the best, considering their track record.


    "Yes, well, I think even back then, even I was in denial, always wishing to set out to prove that the gods were our benefactors," Alexander said, his voice laced with a deep, lingering regret.


    "But I think my father was right to say they only treated us as mere toys, to play with as they pleased." Alexander voiced, as if finally understanding what his father meant all those centuries ago.


    "I thought if I proved that a human could stand with the gods, they would respect me," Alexander continued, his voice quiet but heavy with the weight of his reflection.


    "But I think they feared what I had become, what I symbolized as humanity and I died before I could truly see what I, what my growing armies, were capable of." Alexander ironically said, remembering what his father had said but realized it was a warning too late.


    "I stood on my own and that is what they feared, that a human would be capable of such." Alexander said truthfully, his gaze distant, as if reliving the echoes of his past.


    "Well how did you guys meet, did she like, try to kill you-"


    "No, I met her through my mother, Olympias." Alexander explained, surprising Ricky with the reveal.


    "Oh-......did she kill her or something?" Ricky asked, thinking that was the root of his whole revenge thing but Alexander lightly shook his head.


    "No, my mother outlived even me." Alexander plainly said, surprising even Ricky who scrunched his brows.


    "Damn, then what''s the deal, did she use you as a dildo or something?" Ricky asked, watching Alexander downcast his gaze and slowly nod.


    "In a way, she used us all."


    Cough


    "Not as a fornication tool might I add." Alexander said right as Ricky was about to high five him, only to frown at him not taking advantage of the situation.


    "I didn''t know at the time, but she was spinning whispers in my mother''s ears, false words that drove her mad. No untrained mind can handle the stream of divine whispers; it grew into an obsession that wasn''t hers, and it consumed her." Alexander revealed, knowing that by the time he had left for Kamar-Taj, Gaea most likely corrupted her mind to a point where it could not be redeemed.


    "Both in mind and soul."


    "It destroyed my family, and I was too consumed with my own resentment and hate to understand that until it was too late." Alexander sighed, thinking he had come to terms with this in the afterlife while in Elysian Fields but it seemed that it wasn''t the case.


    "After my father passed, I thought conquering Persia would make it right, but it only deepened the pit within my heart, like broken glass, blood endlessly pouring into it, only for it to leak out from the bottom." Alexander beautifully described it, trying to fill his broken glass repeatedly rather than fix the leaking hole.


    Maybe this was why Alexander had always been so forthright with Ricky, trying to help him overcome his own past.


    Perhaps it was therapeutic in a way, he got to help a young, troubled man who also struggled with a hidden past, a past that made it hard for him to grow.


    Maybe, even now, Alexander was still stuck in the past.


    We will never know.


    "Deep." Ricky remarked, surprised at the maturity Alexander could show at times.


    He hadn''t expected the depth of it, especially when Alexander was so acutely self-aware of his own misgivings, far more than he was even now.


    "Yes, very deep." Alexander sighed, his words immediately making Ricky want to make a ''that''s what she said'' joke but holding back with dear life.


    "Only at the end of my life did I learn the truth of Gaea, and now, in this new life of mine, I''ve come to accept that the Greek gods weren''t what I thought they were." Alexander said, his voice quiet but firm as he paused for a moment, his gaze distant as if reflecting on the weight of those words.


    "If I had to give you advice based on my own failures, it would be this: never trust a god''s words at face value." Alexander''s words were resolute, staring Ricky dead in the eye as he gazed back at him with a raised eyebrow.


    "They are never as simple as they might seem; their words are always laced with intentions that are not our own." Alexander spoke, seeking to etch every word into Ricky''s brain as he slowly nodded at this before frowning.


    "Are they all like that?" Ricky said since banging a goddess was literally on his bucket list.


    "Unfortunately." Alexander and Asterion both sighed, shaking their heads, as they recognized how similar their experiences had been.


    Alexander had only ever met the gods, while Asterion had only dealt with the demi-gods, yet in the end, they both shared the same bitter disappointment, they both kind of sucked.


    "It''s why, when I talk with Asterion, I''m surprised he belongs to such a pantheon." Alexander explained, gesturing toward the minotaur, who nodded in acknowledgment.


    "Yes, well, although I''ve only met with them briefly, I can understand why I might come across that way, and I completely get it," Asterion understood completely, already living with this sort of zeal that came from being part of this religious sect.


    "Geez, the greek pantheon seems so f*cked." Ricky relented, knowing how hard it was going to be to bring himself to bone a goddess, not really that hard.


    Sigh


    "You have no idea." Asterion and Alexander both said at the same time, laughing heartily as they slowly walked along all while six figures slowly approached the rolling hills located outside the trees.


    Finally crossing the border with the heavy infantry of the Chimera army, six figures slowly emerged onto the hills.


    "Remember what you need to do, Lancelot," Merlyn said, his voice tinged with annoyance as he struggled to peer into the forest while speaking through an orb at the knight''s side.


    The head knight, grotesque in form, dutifully nodded, revealing himself to be none other than the legendary Sir Lancelot.


    "I shall carry out his will."


    Author''s Note: Sorry if my writing doesn''t feel the same, ngl, I''m just not feeling it as of late. It''s my bad but I don''t know, I feel off my game in terms of writing and I feel like i''m just spending way more time pouring over them then necessary Idk.

 Chapter 189: I’m taking a break

    Chapter 189 - I''m taking a break


    Lol before I even start I already know this sucks. I was a webnovel reader and I know that your heart probably dropped when you realized that this wasn''t a new chap.


    But just chill and listen or read or whatever.


    It''s just like the title says, and I''m taking a break. Ngl, idk how long it''s gonna be porbs not more than a month, but I''m just tired. All the f*cking time. And with these BS classes weighing me down, I don''t have as much time to write as I want and burned through all my stacked chaps while studying and shi. I want you all to know that this isn''t forever and I''ll eventually resume the story.


    Y''know, I read all about writers just expecting people to love and review and just comment on the story but I just never asked that.


    All I ever wanted was to f*cking prove that someone could write a decent story w/ smut, it ain''t f*cking, and it ain''t f*cking rocket science.


    I ain''t gonna prolong this cause I already explained my feelings about smut writers in my previous rant but I want you all to know, I just appreciate that you enjoyed my work.


    Throughout the months of people cycling in, I''m glad that I built an audience like all of y''all, and I''m sorry I let ya down, but I''m just tired.


    I want to take time to get back into my groove and just really build Chapters again while enjoying everyting I built up so far.


    But like I said before in an earlier post I ain''t just gonna give it up, I''m too spiteful. Too much of my damn time was invested in these character and building them up and I''d rather shoot myself in the face than just drop this story forever.


    I also feel like it''s good practice cause I feel my writings gotten better since chap 1 but that''s just me.


    But man, even right now, I feel relieved writing this cause writing is a lot. Idk if any of yall are writers but this sh*t hard dude. Writing is diffcult and it''s easy just to read and critize cause I do it all the time but, y''know, a single chap of revising and combing over is like three hours my time, less if it''s not 10,000 words.


    So if I had to say one thing to leave off, go to a story that doesn''t blow cock and just tell the author you appreciate them cause it does mean alot.


    I read all your comments, even though I haven''t been replying as of late, I read them all and I do know the ones that leave comments, I literally recongize you if when you just say ''Thank for hte Chapter'' because you do it every chap, and I acutally take that to heart.


    It''s not just a one off for authors, at least for me, it makes me feel like those three hours weren''t for jack sh*t.


    So when you''re reading a Chapter and the author doesn''t break up the smut chaps into like eighteen parts, tell em thanks, for me.


    LaughingFiend

 Chapter 190: Quick Update: Resuming In Early-Mid June

    Chapter 190 - Quick Update: Resuming In Early-Mid June


    Lol get rick-rolled this ain''t a Chapter.


    Basically, I just wanted to make a small post to give everyone who''s still waiting during my prolonged silence a quick heads-up that I''m gonna be resuming the fic in early June.


    This semester has actually been miserable, and I''ve only just started to get back into writing with the courseload gradually loosening up for the summer.


    Ngl, even though I haven''t been writing, I''ve been thinking a lot, mainly because I''ve been kind of stuck on how I wanted to progress Ricky''s character.


    Evolving a character is actually a b*tch, and I never thought this would be the hardest part since I always zoned in on the plot rather than the character, but I f*cking finally figured out where I wanted to go, and I feel like it ties everything I was going for in the earlier Chapters to this one.


    But for those who want a concrete date: I''m aiming to post something at the start of June, but if I don''t, I''ve literally tattooed it on my brain to post something by June 15.


    It might be a little slow at first, and I''ll probably break shiz into parts before I fully get back into my groove so be prepared for that.


    I''m also really thankful for the support, ''cause I''ve read all your comments, and it''s dope to see that people want me to hurry the f*ck up and post.


    I totally get that literal pit in your stomach when a story you actually enjoy goes on hiatus with some vague promise of coming back but no date, just this lingering uncertainty that it might never continue.


    I just wanted to make this post to quell that, ''cause I ain''t that big of an asshole.


    But what I''ve also seen is how my writing has acutally made people wanna write.


    I guess what I''m trying to say is thanks cause I never really thought my writing would have such an impact that other writers on this app had for me.


    Cause you get to a point where you wanna write, whether it''s because you want to give it a try or because someone inspired you, like Jmac did for me.


    I think it''s cool if you wanna start writing, and I think you should do it cause life''s too stupidly short to just second-guess yourself. And yeah, I know that sounds extra cheesy, but that''s how I order my pizzas, so just eat it.


    I guess what I''m trying to say is that it''s stupid if the reason you don''t want to write is because you tell yourself no one would enjoy it. I literally made a smut story because people piss me the f*ck off on this app and people still enjoy it. So, in my opinion, you''ll be way more successful than you think.


    Also, if anyone wants some juicy advice I''ve learned from writing that applies to literally everyone: don''t be afraid to be wrong.


    It''s cool to have an ego, I actually think it''s necessary on some fronts to write a good story, but too much of it will rot your story and yourself.


    I figured that out pretty early on, when I actualled argued with someone in my reviews. Then I just had this moment where I was like, ''Wow, I''m f*cking cringe'' and kinda just stopped.


    I think everyone who writes their own story has that moment where they''re all up on their high and mighty horse just because they created something.


    But you also forget that it''s the reader who actually adds value to it and gives your story meaning.


    Bro, some of you guys know more about my story than I do and I forget who the exact user was, but I straight-up got ratioed by my own plot and continuity.


    I completely forgot to mention that Ninfa, who was the wife of Profaci (who I killed off), had a son with him.


    I laughed at the comment ''cause I thought they were just trying to Mandela Effect me but nah, I literally forgot and had to change the f*cking plot and retcon it. LOL.


    But yeah, if I write something and y''all disagree, I don''t just skim it. I actually read it, and if I think you''re right, then I just change it or I apply it later within the story.


    Which is also cool, ''cause it''s like getting another perspective but that doesn''t mean I just bend and break to everyone''s suggestions.


    You gotta put your foot down sometimes too.


    But that''s my advice, take it or don''t, it''s whatever.


    Anyway, I''ve ranted way too long and I still got sh*t to do today, but yeah, I''m coming back.


    ¡ªLaughingFiend

 Chapter 191 - 179: Rolling Hills Part 2

    Chapter 191 - 179: Rolling Hills Part 2


    While Ricky and his makeshift army marched through the forest, Merlyn could no longer spy on them, their path was now beyond his sight.


    But in losing one watchful gaze, they had just gained another in its place.


    Instead of Merlyn''s eyes, it was Gaea who watched as the group pressed on toward the edge of her domain.


    Although the Chimeras marching under Ricky''s command had been granted passage, the second wave was forcefully expelled the moment Gaea sensed Alexander''s presence.


    These creatures, these hollow shells of life, grotesque amalgamations of monkeys, sloths, and other beasts, were repelled with an unseen force, cast out of her domain as if nature itself rejected their existence.


    For even if only for a fleeting moment, she wanted to watch Alexander, unbothered and unfiltered.


    "Are you truly from the Greek pantheon?" Morgana''s words broke the silence that had settled over them, filling the void left in the wake of Gaea''s sudden confrontation.


    "Yes, have you heard of the minotaur?" Asterion asked, turning towards her with a gentle smile.


    Morgana gave Asterion a quick once-over, fully aware that he was comparing himself to the version of his story told in myth.


    "The one who died in the maze?" she asked, eyeing him skeptically.


    "Well, it was a labyrinth, and I wouldn''t say I ''died'', I simply left Greece." Asterion corrected, trying to set the record straight but in a polite way.


    "Well, would you look at that," Morgana muttered, having met demi-gods before but showing a particular interest in this one that showed a certain humility.


    "I don''t believe we''ve been formally introduced," Asterion said, offering a slight bow as if being cordial to her status as a queen.


    "I am Asterion, forefather of all minotaurs, friend to Daedalus, and friend to Ricky." Asterion greeted, only to pause as he realized he had used Ricky''s name without permission.


    He glanced over, relief washing over him when he saw Ricky giving him a thumbs-up, signaling to him that it was indeed, alright.


    "I-I see." Morgana said with slight shock, actually bothered to the core at how Ricky managed to befriend such a polite being such as Asterion.


    To anyone meeting Ricky for the first time, the immediate impression would be his crassness and blunt demeanor, so much so that it was easy to overlook the fact that those around him were not the same.


    They were, in a nice way to put it, oddly unique.


    "How did you two even come across each other?" Morgana asked, unable to stop herself from the question forming in her mind.


    "In a cave." Ricky simply said, his words making Asterion chuckle since it was the truth after all.


    "A cave?" Morgana asked, thinking it was metaphorical but after seeing Asteiron nod in agreement, she showed a weird expression.


    "I basically stumbled into Daedalus'' tomb and found him." Ricky summed it up perfectly, getting straight to the point as quickly as he got there.


    "Ricky shined the light onto the darkness in which I surrounded myself in, opening the door to my concealment and allowing me to take in a breath of fresh air." Asterion said, closing his eyes while taking in all that life had to offer.


    "He showed me that there is so much beauty to life." Asterion spoke from his very heart, gripping it tightly as MOrgana gave him a weird look.


    "Even now, I am enthralled by Otherworld''s beauty; the rocks, the leaves, the dirt, the-" Asterion began, preaching his surroundings as if reciting poetry.


    Prancing on and on, his tongue spirling forward hymns that gave way to how he himself saw his surroundings.


    Only when Asterion finally stopped, instead of everyone bearing the same expression Morgana wore, Ricky and Alexander were clapping.


    Words could not convey the beauty that had spilled from Asterion''s mouth in that moment, even if one had tried.


    "Dude, that was f*cking beautiful." Ricky clapped, applauding Asterion and cheering him on in his passions.


    "Truly, truly breathtaking." Alexander voiced, clapping his paw together in appreciation for Asterion''s sudden talent.


    "Thank you, it means a lot to truly have your passions recognized." Asterion smiled warmly, happy to be appreciated by those he deems his friends.


    "When you mentioned I should write down my poetry, I started taking it more seriously than I first imagined," Asterion said, a hint of pride in his voice as Ricky nodded, happy to help even if it was just encouraging Asterion to embrace his passion.


    However, what they could never know was that this little conversation, this accidental push into the subject, would lead Asterion to become one of the greatest poets of the decade, writing under the pen name Asteroni and would go on to inspire many in the twenty first century.


    Asterion''s poems would speak of all that life gives, yet remind the reader that life itself is endless, just as his desires are, boundless and ever-reaching.


    Through his verses, he would capture the eternal yearning that defines his existence, blending beauty and longing into a tapestry of words that resonate with anyone who dares to dream beyond the confines of the world they know.


    Asterion felt thankful, grateful to all his readers who read even a single word, regardless of whether they truly liked it.


    At first, the harsh critiques stung, but over time, he learned to appreciate all readers, from those who adored his work to those who didn''t understand it.


    Every opinion, every reaction, whether good or bad, was a reflection of his words'' power to stir something within them.


    But as they reached the clearing, the edge of Gaea''s domain, Ricky felt his danger sense intensify, pulling his focus forward like a gravitational force.


    The friendly chatter gradually faded, swallowed by a deadly silence as the brief moment of warmth was drowned by yet another looming sense of danger.


    "Ha~" Ricky exhaled deeply, taking a slow step forward as his foot crossed from the forestry ground into the lush green field, seemingly passing the boundary.


    Above him, six grotesque knights stood upon the rolling hills, their towering figures blocking out the sight of Camelot, with an endless line of Chimeras stretching behind them like an imposing wave that triumphed that Ricky had fought earlier.


    It was then that Alexander, bracing himself for the coming battle, felt the weight of the 969 Carrion Chimeras placed under his command, threading to him as if forming the reigns that now fell under his tiny paw-like grip.


    There were no words, no exchanged glances, but they both understood all too well the meaning behind this action.


    "Let me guess, you''re some f*cked-up creation of Merlyn?" Ricky asked, laughing in the face of the six grotesque knights as he tried to provoke some kind of reaction, but they remained motionless, unbothered.


    "We are the six damned knights who once belonged to the Round Table, betraying our promised king. We atone for our sins by exposing them for all to see," Lancelot rasped, his voice barely intelligible, as if it pained him to speak.


    Making it clear that their grotesque forms were the physical manifestation of their past misdeeds, while also showing that Ricky''s words had no effect on them, leaving them unbothered and resolute.


    "So you''re just knock-off versions of the Seven Deadly Sins?" Ricky asked, raising an eyebrow as he scanned their grotesque forms.


    "How could we be the Seven Deadly Sins if there are only six of us?" Lancelot countered, his voice dripping with mockery as he twisted Ricky''s own words, turning the humiliation back on him.


    "Maybe that''s your lame shtick," Ricky mocked, tapping the ebony blade on his shoulder with a casual smirk, the ebony shield and crown seeming to scoff in unison at sheer appearance before them.


    ''How dare they all simply exist after betraying our master.'' The Ebony Crown hissed, hatefully spewing out his resentment towards these figures.


    ''They got off easy if you ask me.'' The Ebony Shield scowled, spitting out his disdain towards them within Ricky''s mind.


    ''So are you guys cool with me beating the sh*t out of them-"


    ''Yes.'' The Ebony Crown and Shield said before Ricky could even finish, showing how much they hated the six figures mounted atop these rolling hills.


    ''Huh, I guess we can agree on some things-''


    ''YEAHHHHHHHHHHH!'' The Ebony Chalice cheered within Ricky''s head, dancing around his elder siblings with his buck tooth teeth hanging out.


    ''Teamwork, teamwork, teamwork!'' The Ebony Chalice continued to cheer, his words causing his siblings to scowl at him.


    ''All together-.............siblings?'' The Ebony Chalice asked, holding his hand outwards, eager for his elder siblings to join him.


    However, to his surprise, everyone, including the Ebony Sword, calmly walked to their own corners of Ricky''s subconscious, keeping a respectful distance from him.


    "Ricky should I-"


    "Go, I got this in this bag." Ricky muttered to Morgana, watching her side-eye the former Round Table knights as she locked eyes with Mordred for a moment before quickly turning her gaze away.


    Cedric and a few other coven members made their way over to her as she opened a purple portal.


    But instead of charging forward or attempting to stop her, they merely allowed her to leave without so much as acknowledging her presence.


    The lack of reaction stung Morgana, a slight insult she couldn''t ignore and still, she let it go, stepping into the portal with the others.


    "So, does this guy speak for the rest of you, or is he just throwing his weight around?" Ricky asked, gesturing toward the other five knights who simply stared at him with hollow eyes, their expressions unreadable and unmoving.


    "I was the only one allowed their tongue." Lancelot said, black blood dripping from the side of his mouth as even speaking was a strenuous task.


    "Oh sh*t, wait let me guess, you''re the bastard who kept stabbing people in the back." Ricky laughed, pointing at Lancelot who squinted his eyes at these words.


    "That was Mordred, the one to my left." Lancelot proclaimed, introducing the disgraced knight in serpentine form, looking more like a naga than human.


    "Well, I forget the rest of you, so lay it on me. Who the f*ck are you?" Ricky joked, pretending to ponder while looking over the knights.


    Lancelot nodded, clearly unfazed by the mockery, as the others remained silent, literally unable to voice their complaints even if they wanted to.


    "I was Arthur''s sworn sword, the first damned knight to betray his promised king." Lancelot spoke with deep regret, for unlike the others who did not repent for their actions, he did so with a deep and mournful sorrow.


    "I am Lancelot du Lac." Lancelot formally introduced himself, his words causing Ricky to laugh as he slowly raised his ethereal arms that had stayed relatively hidden behind his figure.


    Snap


    Snap


    "Oh no way, you''re the guy that boned Arthur''s wife?" Ricky said, snapping a couple of times as the realization hit him, his words coming out in such a nonchalant yet vulgar way that it left Lancelot momentarily silent.


    "Although it is my sin to bear, it was-"


    "Oh who cares man, we all got layers, no need to go into some long tirade about how guilty you are or whatever." Ricky laughed, taking a couple steps forward as if taking the lead towards this formidable opposing army.


    "I mean, either way, I''m just gonna absorb you into my little army and simply steal the strings that Merlyn uses to dangle you around." Ricky easily revealed his intentions, watching as the knights continued to impassively look at him.


    "We shall see." Lancelot said, raising his gaze to Ricky, clearly unconvinced by his proclamation.


    "Oh, we f*cking shall."


    Merlyn simply watched the unfolding scene, his eyes fixed on the branch at Lancelot''s side, the same one he had given him at the beginning of this whole mess.


    His gaze then shifted, landing on Lady Roma, bound by Chastiefol''s first form as he grimaced, his thoughts lingering on her, his only remaining love and attachment in this world.


    Yet, despite the emotions clawing at him, he knew he could do nothing.


    If he interfered now, all of his careful planning might unravel, and he''d rather let Ricky destroy this army than risk everything by jumping in too early.


    "You sure you don''t wanna just surrender right now and save yourself an ass whooping?" Ricky asked, his voice light and casual as he looked toward Lancelot, who simply stared back.


    "I mean, we both know I''m just gonna kick your ass, so why not save you the trouble?" Ricky added, his grin wide, as if this whole situation was just beneath him.


    "You speak the truth, you are more powerful than me," Lancelot admitted, his voice heavy with reluctant respect as he knew deep down that he couldn''t defeat Ricky through strength alone, no matter how much he tried to deny it.


    "But after seeing your swordsmanship, your power, and the wit in which you command, I''ve come to one conclusion," Lancelot continued, his gaze unwavering as he sized Ricky up, having seen him in the thralls of battle but only one thing was clear on his mind afterwards.


    "You are nothing special in front of true power." Lancelot proclaimed, knowing that if they were hollowed in spirit, then Ricky was hollow in form as there was nothing truly special about him.


    "Wow, you''ve got quite the way with words," Ricky chuckled, his tone light, though his smile slowly rose up into a sleazy one.


    "No wonder you got your little promised king''s wife to kiss the tip of your cock." Ricky laughed, his mockery finally getting to Lancelot, who slowly scowled at the mention of Guinevere in such a vulgar way.


    "You better watch your tongue, you good for nothing stain on Sir Percival''s name." Lancelot spat back, seeing Ricky as nothing more than a vulgar boy hiding within a man''s body.


    "Uh oh, did I get the famed Lancelot a little riled up there?" Ricky smirked, pushing past his weak insult and drilling deeper into his previous jab, his eyes narrowing into crescent moons.


    "Did I push a sore spot there? Did I press a little too far? Well, let me go a little farther." Ricky grinned in an unhinged manner, his shamelessness clear as day as his words cut deeper, as everyone behind him sighed, bracing for the inevitable fallout.


    "O''l Lancelot, turned into a f*cking monster ''cause he couldn''t keep it in his pants, how ironic." Ricky proclaimed, his words striking a nerve as Lancelot slowly gritted his teeth, the anger bubbling up just beneath the surface.


    "Guess I can''t really talk all that sh*t since she must''ve been a hot piece of ass-"


    "ENOUGH!" Lancelot roared, his monstrous form bursting into a twisted black aura.


    The elongated blade that replaced his right arm gleamed with a sharp, menacing horror, radiating a deadly energy that seemed to distort the very air around him.


    Unable to stop himself, his manners and chivalry were cast aside, as his hollow eyes pulsed with a rage he thought he had long buried. With a roar, Lancelot bolted down the rolling hills, charging towards Ricky with a fury that matched the growing storm inside him.


    "HAHAHAHAHAHA! THAT''S IT, COME ON AND SHOW ME WHAT YOU F*CKING GOT!" Ricky laughed maniacally, his voice carrying through the air like a challenge.


    His psychokinetic constructs materialized around him, weapons springing into form at his disposal, ready to meet Lancelot''s wrath head-on.


    "NOW!"


    BOOM


    The Chimera hoard that Ricky had placed under Alexander''s command was finally put to good use.


    The general, with calculated precision, ordered them to ambush the main army, directing the creatures to flank from all sides.


    The creatures surged forward like a relentless tide, crashing into the rear of the enemy forces.


    "ON ME, ON ME!" Alexander roared, his voice cutting through the chaos of battle as he signaled his forces to converge.


    With Bucephalus thundering beneath him, he charged forward, his eyes locked onto the massive Chimera hoard ahead.


    His legion, spurred on by his call, surged forward in unison, flanking the grotesque beasts on both sides in a swift and brutal pincers maneuver.


    However, as the coven, the undead army, and even Ricky sprang forward into battle, Dexter remained shackled to the ground.


    It felt as though his feet were frozen in place, rooted to the ground by the horrifying sight before him. His eyes were fixed on a gargantuan undead bear, towering over the mere cannon fodder, its monstrous form serving as heavy infantry in the twisted army.


    But it wasn''t the bear itself that caught his attention, it was what lay attached and apart of its chest.


    There, sewn into the very flesh of the beast, was a child.


    The child''s eyes were rolled back, revealing only the whites of them, and the scalp was completely devoid of hair, leaving the small, twisted form completely vulnerable.


    Its mouth hung open, but no sound emerged, only the silent scream of agony, as if trapped between life and death.


    Yet, the sight was grotesquely familiar as these abominations littered the rolling hills, seemingly showcasing proudly the adolescent children sewn into their very being.


    But this bear was different.


    This child was his little brother.


    Then, as if his heart couldn''t ache any more, the bear unleashed a deafening roar, followed by a terrifying beam of magical energy that shot out, striking some of the Carrion Chimeras under Alexander''s legion.


    Dexter''s breath caught in his throat, he shook his head away but his eyes, however, couldn''t look away from the grotesque scene before him.


    His little brother convulsed within the bear''s chest, writhing in agony as the creature used him as nothing more than a conduit for its destructive power.


    "It''s all a joke," Dexter muttered, his voice hollow, as the weight of the situation pressed down on him.


    He fell to his knees, the words feeling like they carried the crushing weight of an unbearable truth.


    That wasn''t just a monster, some fallen member of his coven, it was his brother, his baby brother.


    His mind refused to accept the reality before him, yet the twisted sight made it undeniable.


    As the truth settled in, it shattered him into countless pieces, each fragment of his heart breaking a little more.


    He sank deeper into the ground, slumping forward, numb to everything around him, unable to move, to act as the world around him blurred into an intense ringing.


    "SNAP OUT OF IT, DEXTER!" Cedric roared, gripping the young man''s shoulder and yanking him back into reality.


    BOOM


    An explosion suddenly exploded next to them, dirt flying into the air and sprinkling onto them as Dexter merely gazed at him with a hollow gaze.


    "Listen to me, LISTEN TO ME!" Cedric seethed, grabbing his face and forcing his gaze to look him directly in the eye.


    "You must push forward, we must push forward!" Cedric spoke with fierce conviction, his voice cutting through the air despite the turmoil around them.


    He refused to let his gaze linger on the grotesque sight of the undead bears, their twisted forms stirring a deep, visceral unease within him and yet, he knew the battle couldn''t stop here, not with so much at stake.


    "You cannot die here, you cannot die without freeing him from his prison!" Cedric urged, his words sinking into Dexter like a weight, drowning him in a flood of guilt that twisted inside him.


    It stirred something deep within, that anger, almost buried and forgotten as Cedric''s words ignited it once more.


    "DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME, DEXTER!" Cedric asked, watching the young man become filled with a rage of conviction.


    "YES, ELDER CEDRIC!"


    BAM


    Meanwhile, Lancelot closed the distance with frightening speed, shooting toward Ricky like a dagger aimed for the heart as his embedded blade reached out, the extension of his rage towards him, aiming to pierce Ricky''s flesh.


    But just as the tip of the blade drew near, it slammed into an invisible barrier, green and shimmering with energy, that pulsed around Ricky, halting Lancelot''s strike in midair.


    It was then that a phenomenon occurred with the collision of an immovable object and the prospect of an unstoppable force.


    The tip of Lancelot''s blade plunged directly into the green barrier of Ricky''s will with a sound that could only be described as a violent clash between two worlds, green and black.


    As the blade made contact, it seemed to momentarily halt in midair, the raw power from both forces locking in an intense standoff.


    Lancelot''s monstrous form, fueled by rage and desperation, forced the blade forward with every ounce of strength, but the barrier was impenetrable.


    It shimmered like an unyielding force field, an unbreakable will manifesting in the form of an ethereal green glow.


    For a brief moment, it was as if time itself had stopped as these two forces met at the threshold, neither willing to give an inch.


    Up to this moment , Ricky had never encountered anyone in the otherworld who could pierce through his barrier, his mind, his will, and his unyielding win streak.


    Every adversary he''d faced, no matter how formidable, had either crumbled before his relentless resolve or faltered in the face of his indomitable force.


    And that win streak would continue.


    CRACK


    SPLAT


    The shock of the collision sent Lancelot''s arm jerking back violently as his shoulder immediately dislocated, his flesh splitting as his entire body was thrown backward by the intense backlash of inertia.


    The blow left him reeling, the sheer force of it stunning him for a moment, his arm useless and his face contorting in pain.


    "Ooooooo, so close~" Ricky taunted, lunging forward with the Ebony Blade to finish the job as he started to cut through the space between them only to feel his danger sense tingle.


    BAM


    Just before he could finish the swing to cut Lancelot in two, Ricky''s instincts kicked in and with lightning speed, he pivoted and delivered a roundhouse kick, his shin connecting with the scaly face of Mordred.


    The force of the strike was immense, sending a shockwave through Mordred''s body.


    Ricky felt the satisfying crunch of bones shattering under his foot as Mordred''s head snapped back, his features contorting in pain.


    Without hesitation or a moment''s thought, Ricky''s blade came down in a brutal arc, slicing through the air as a streak of red electricity ran down his spine.


    In the next moment, a sickening wet sound resounded as the ebony blade cleaved through him vertically.


    Mordred''s eyes widened in shock as his body was divided, his once menacing frame now reduced to two parts, crumpling to the ground with a horrifying thud.


    The lifeblood poured from the dismembered halves, staining the earth beneath him, as the treacherous knight was silenced once and for all.


    BAM


    Trying to catch Ricky off guard and pierce his blind spot, Lancelot gathered all his strength into his legs and lunged toward him with ferocious speed.


    But just as he closed the distance a small, shimmering barrier materialized right in front of Lancelot''s face rather than his entire body.


    SNAP


    The collision was instant and brutal as Lancelot''s face remained frozen in place while his body lurched forward, the force violently dislodging his spine.


    A grotesque crack echoed through the battlefield as his head snapped backward at an unnatural angle as his body went limp, collapsing to the ground like a discarded puppet.


    But Ricky wasn''t done.


    With a mere flick of his wrist, green flames erupted from his fingertips, engulfing Lancelot''s fallen form as the fire roared hungrily, consuming flesh, armor, and even the earth beneath him,


    A shadow loomed over Ricky as Sir Kay, Arthur''s foster brother, now twisted into the form of a winged beast, swooped down on him.


    His once-human feet had become makeshift talons, mangled to fit that of claws and extended to grip towards Ricky only to have the ebony shield to slam into them.


    CRUNCH


    Ricky mangled them even further as the force crumpled them backwards, showing Sir Kay that his attack had not only failed, but backfired.


    Flapping his wings, a gust of air resounded as he turned his head upwards only for his ethereal arms to launch towards the monster as it desperately tried to escape into the sky, only for three spectral weapons to pierce its body.


    Yanking Sir Kay back down, Ricky slammed him into the ground with bone-crushing force.


    Momentarily releasing his ebony shield and blade, his hands instead seizing the grotesque wings of the writhing knight beneath his feet.


    Sir Kay thrashed, a guttural snarl escaping his twisted form, but Ricky only tightened his grip, before violently pulling back.


    SPLAT


    Black blood spattered across Ricky''s body, yet he only laughed in a deep, unhinged tone, reveling in the carnage of fcking up Merlyn''s sht.


    With a casual toss, he discarded the torn wings, sending them fluttering uselessly to the side.


    Then, without missing a beat, he called back his ebony artifacts as they responded instantly, slicing through the air before landing perfectly in his waiting palms.


    "This can''t be it, Merlyn! F*cking come out and face me already!" Ricky bellowed into the sky, his voice echoing across the battlefield as he raised his shield.


    Sir Gaheris and Sir Gawain lunged at him in unison, but before their blades could reach him, a streak of red electricity flashed through the air, slicing cleanly across their waists.


    Ricky took another step forward, unfazed and behind him, both knights split apart, their bisected forms collapsing to the ground.


    His eyes burned with a fierce green glow as he lunged, his ebony blade driving straight through the final knight, impaling him in one decisive strike.


    Sir Agravain, his faceless mirrored helm reflecting Ricky''s fierce gaze, stood frozen as the ebony blade drove deep into his decayed flesh.


    His body jerked backward slightly, the weapon settling into his rotting core, yet he still attempted to swing his sword.


    BAM


    Ricky''s ebony shield intercepted the attack with a resounding clash and wasting no time, he lunged forward and slammed his helmet into Agravain''s, the impact sending fissures spider webbing across the burnt surface.


    Before the knight could react, Ricky''s blade arced upward in a brutal slash, cleaving through his rotted form, splitting him apart in a spray of blackened ichor that was now his blood.


    "MERLYN, I''M DONE PLAYING THIS F*CKING GAME OF CAT AND MOUSE! STOP BEING SUCH A PUSSY AND FACE ME!" Ricky bellowed into the sky, his voice laced with fury. His patience had long since burned away, scorched by the relentless gauntlet of knights and monsters.


    This whole ordeal, this over-the-top bullsh*t, was nothing more than an exhausting, drawn-out spectacle as he wasn''t here to play through some ancient drama.


    He wanted to end it right here, right now.


    Merlyn remained silent, only watching through his crystal ball as Ricky''s frustration mounted with each passing second.


    "Fine. I''ll just take your sh*t now, and then come kick your ass later." Ricky muttered under his breath, his eyes narrowing as he traced symbols into the dirt around Sir Agravain''s body. He then extended his hand, commanding it back to life.


    "Get up."


    But instead of the usual ding of confirmation, a heavy, unsettling silence hung in the air as Ricky''s brow furrowed in confusion since it was obvious to anyone he had killed them, and yet, there was nothing.


    Then, a slow, creeping movement behind him caught his attention as he didn''t need to look to know something was wrong.


    Turning, he saw a burnt figure rising to its feet, one that should have remained lifeless.


    Lancelot was still alive.


    "You cannot raise the dead of something that cannot be killed-"


    "Ugh, disgusting," Ricky interrupted Lancelot''s chilling monologue, his face contorting in disgust as he fought the urge to vomit.


    Lancelot''s body wasn''t merely reanimated; it was a grotesque fusion of insects and decaying flesh.


    Swarming creatures crawled over him, burrowing into the gaps in his skin, laying eggs that seemed to pulse as they began to heal and regenerate the dead areas of his form.


    The once-proud knight was now a horrific amalgamation of man and pestilence, a mockery of life, stitched together by the very creatures that had claimed his humanity and yet still, he clung onto life.


    The scene unfolded before Ricky like a twisted display of resilience of what immortality can truly look like.


    Sir Mordred''s body, once cut in two, began to scab back together, the torn flesh knitting itself as if by some unholy magic.


    His limbs reformed, cracking and creaking as the once-dead knight rose, whole again, though not in any recognizable form of life.


    Meanwhile, Sir Kay''s mutilated body slowly twisted and contorted as another pair of wings erupted from his back, grotesquely extending like a demonic mockery of flight.


    Sir Gawine, his form melted beyond recognition, gradually reshaped itself like wax in the sun, his body flowing and reforming until he once again stood.


    Sir Gaheris, not to be outdone, was reconstructing himself in a far more unsettling way.


    Ashes swirled around his disintegrating form, gathering to refashion his missing pieces that reshaped into his fully intact, flawed form.


    As for Sir Agravain, his attempts to reform manifested as familiar tendrils of twisted energy and strange, dark magic wrenched themselves from his body, trying to piece him back together.


    Although these knights didn''t possess the overwhelming power like Lady Roma, what made them truly dangerous wasn''t their sheer strength, it was their unnerving longevity.


    Merlyn had cursed them, binding them to a twisted, unnatural stream of immortality, a tether that wrapped tightly around his fingers.


    He wasn''t foolish enough to create beings that were beyond his control, but these knights had been powerful figures in their time.


    Their names were legends for a reason and remembered as powerful figures on their time.


    Merlyn, ever the manipulator, had stolen much of their power, siphoning their once-mighty abilities and transplanting them into these grotesque, horror-filled healing factors.


    It was this infusion of their former strength, paired with the unnerving regeneration bestowed upon them, that made these knights so terrifying.


    No matter how much damage Ricky inflicted upon them, their cursed forms healed, their bodies relentlessly stitching themselves back together.


    Merlyn had turned them into a perverse form of immortality, making them nearly impossible to defeat, not because of raw power, but because they could never truly die.


    "What the f*ck?"


    "What will you do now, Ricky?" Merlyn wondered out loud, seemingly waiting for Ricky to show him something that would once again surprise him.


    It was at this moment, as the knights slowly rose to their feet, that Ricky found himself trapped in a conundrum he never wanted to be in, yet one he couldn''t escape.


    Instead of succumbing to the situation, playing along, or cursing his fate, Ricky decided to show Merlyn one of his hidden cards as an idea flashed in his mind.


    ''Ah, what the hell.'' Ricky muttered, tossing his ebony shield aside, gripping the newly regenerated neck of Sir Agravain and in another fluid motion, he drove his sword deep into the knight''s heart.


    "It''s pointless, surrender or-"


    "You''re right, I can''t raise the living," Ricky said, laughing wildly as he turned back to Lancelot, the ebony blade once again impaling him.


    "But if I temporarily erase your immortality, can I still raise you from the dead?" Ricky mused aloud, his voice laced with intrigue.


    The knights were confused, not understanding his intent, until Ricky formed a barrier around himself, isolating him and his new experiment.


    ''No longer human, immortality.'' Ricky muttered in his mind, his arm swirling with blue rings as the energy flared wildly, causing Merlyn''s eyes to widen as he stood up from his seat.


    Honestly, although it was true that they were immortal, under the influence of Ricky''s new skill, nothing was truly immune to him anymore.


    As long as he touched them, disabled their immortality, and inscribed the runes of undead revival in the dirt, he could turn them into immortal undead at will.


    DING


    Then, before the eyes of the other five knights, they watched as Sir Agravain rose from one master''s hold into another.


    Merlyn felt his link to the knight sever, the strings of their control slipping from his grasp and falling into Ricky''s hands.


    BAM


    Merlyn slammed his hands onto the desk, leaning in as his eyes illuminated the scene before him.


    But instead of hatred or rage, a smile bloomed on his usually decrepit face, a grin, twisted yet sincere, free of half-truths and deceit that he always wore, a truly genuine smile.


    (Legendary Servant) Sir Agravain, the Hollow Betrayer: Once a knight renowned for his cunning, Sir Agravain''s punishment for treachery was far worse than death. Now converted into a death knight, his traits remain the same as they once were except under the control of Ricky.


    Abilities:


    Eternal Undone: Sir Agravain cannot be permanently slain since when he is struck down, grotesque tendrils of blackened flesh surge from his wounds, knitting his body back together.


    Marionette''s Grace: His movements are unpredictable and unnatural, making him difficult to anticipate. His attacks come from impossible angles, as if his body is merely a puppet animated by some eldritch force.


    Hollow Reflection: His mirrored helm warps reality, showing enemies their own worst sins and regrets.


    "No, NO!" Sir Agravain cried out, the transfer of ownership restoring his tongue, allowing him to spew his agony in a garbled, horrid symphony of wails.


    "From one master to another,have my sins not been punished enough? HAVE THEY NOT!" Sir Agravain screamed, his voice steeped in misery, echoing his eternal torment.


    "Oh come on man, what happened to wanting to murder and shi-"


    "I want to die! I have committed vile sins and I was atoning for them! I never meant to spend my life drenched in blood, moving from one wicked one to another!" Sir Agravain bellowed at his new master, clutching his mirrored helm, the cursed reflection of every regret he had ever borne.


    "All I ever wanted to do was to be buried in my garden and now, I shall never see it''s beauty again~" Sir Agravain whined, flopping down onto the ground since his life was a living hell deserving of wallowing.


    BOOM


    An explosion rippled behind Ricky, but he remained nonchalant as smoke billowed into the sky.


    Through the haze, Bucephalus charged forward, Alexander at his back, beckoning his undead to advance further as they stormed the breach in the enemy formation.


    "Oh, don''t do that. Don''t make me the bigger asshole, you attacked me first-"


    "Because I was forced to~" Sir Agravain whined, his head hitting the ground over and over again.


    "Alright, well, you can hate me even more afterward, but I gotta go steal all of Merlyn''s sh*t, that includes you damned knights or whatever you call yourselves," Ricky said, gesturing toward the five cursed warriors as four of them flinched.


    Their lives had been twisted into a cruel game of carrot and stick.


    Merlyn, the architect of their immortality, had filled them with such an overwhelming force of life that they could not die, yet they remained bound by his influence.


    They couldn''t escape it, but they could still resist, still struggle against the pull of his control.


    However, each moment they fought it, they only grew weaker, trapped in a cycle of resistance that sapped their strength.


    In this way, Merlyn had cleverly circumvented this resistance by dangling the promise of death before them, a death that would come once the promised king returned.


    It was a distant hope, a slim chance, but to these knights, it was the only lifeline they had left.


    They had accepted this, however reluctantly, and clung to the idea that they would eventually be freed.


    But now, faced with the prospect of being thrust into Ricky''s control, they realized just how hopeless their situation had become upon gazing at their once damned knight.


    Sir Agravain, still writhing in grief and regret, slowly rose to his knees at his new master''s command.


    There was no resistance because he couldn''t as his eyes turned toward the other knights, the weight of his own helplessness mirrored in their gazes.


    It was a moment of finality, showing the four what their fate could be if they were no longer bound to Merlyn and trapped by the grip of a new master.


    The lingering hope of death was fading, replaced by the certainty of their new servitude.


    It was in that moment, driven by the crushing realization of what could be their new fate, that the four knights defied Merlyn''s control with every ounce of strength they had left.


    Desperation flooded their veins as they resisted the pull, not charging at Ricky, but retreating from him, attempting to break away from the crushing grip of both Merlyn and Ricky''s power.


    They tried to escape, to distance themselves from the cruel joke life had played on them.


    But it was just saddening that Ricky wasn''t going to let them go so easily and with a wave of his hand, the air around them thickened.


    A barrier materialized, a shimmering wall of force that snapped into place, trapping them in a box.


    The walls of the cage pulsed with power, sealing them in with Ricky at its center.


    As the knights struggled against the cage, their movements became frantic as this all seemed like some cruel joke but Ricky was the only one laughing.


    But as the others floundered, their resistance crumbling under the weight of Ricky''s power, Lancelot remained steadfast. Unlike the others, whose desperation made them seek escape, Lancelot stood tall before Ricky, his posture unwavering.


    His eyes, cold and resolute, locked onto Ricky with a level of determination that was unshakable.


    While the others struggled against their chains, Lancelot had already accepted his fate as his will was bent but not broken, willing to fight under Merlyn''s control rather than bow to Ricky.


    He had no hope of regaining his freedom, not in the traditional sense.


    But he could still fight, could still make a stand, even if that stand meant serving under the command of another.


    His resolve was more than simple obedience; it was a battle against the notion of his power being usurped by another, even if that meant submitting to the control he had once fought against.


    "Do it now, Lancelot. You have done well in showing your weakness, for Ricky will think your attempt is worthless and give you time to act." Merlyn whispered into the damned knight''s ear, his voice a cold, insidious murmur meant for only Lancelot to hear.


    "Do you know what the cruelest type of man is?" Lancelot asked towards Ricky, his hollow black gazing through the creeks of his rusted black armor.


    "Let me guess, it''s me, I''m the big bad monster who-"


    "The greatest crimes are not committed by villains, but by those who believe themselves righteous." Lancelot spoke, his words drawing his body upwards along with the blade attached to his arm.


    "A man convinced of his own virtue will justify any cruelty, any betrayal, and so, he becomes far more dangerous than the one who knows what he is." Lancelot''s words hummed out, lunging at Ricky who readied his shield.


    CLANG


    "It is easy to denounce the monster, but far more difficult to understand the good man." Lancelot continued, his arm blade shot up into the air as Ricky slammed the ebony shield into it.


    "Do not trust the man who boasts of his goodness." Lancelot continued, watching Ricky slice off his arm before a spectral arm shot out towards his neck.


    "Trust the one who knows his own darkness and masters it," Lance muttered, his voice strained as black blood sputtered from his mouth. Ricky yanked him deeper into his sword, and with a flick of his ethereal hand, blue rings of light flickered to life, activating his new mythical skill. He traced intricate runes into the dirt beneath them.


    "Anything else to add before I make you into my pseudo-slave?" Ricky asked, his tone casual, unfazed by the weight of what he was about to do. Merlyn watched, a twisted smile curling on his lips.


    "We are all monsters, but some of us are just better at hiding it," Lancelot murmured, his voice thick and rasping as black blood dripped from his rotted chin. Slowly, he lifted the branch that had been hanging at his waist the entire time.


    Ricky, who had been staring indifferently at the ground while carving runes, suddenly froze as his eyes widened in disbelief, the calmness draining from his face as his danger sense screamed at a pitch far higher than anything he had ever felt before.


    Ricky''s gaze snapped to the side, locking with Lancelot''s, whose sickening, twisted smile seemed to stretch impossibly wide.


    Before Ricky could even think to act, Lancelot''s hand, trembling with unnatural strength, crushed the tree branch in his grip.


    "This time, I was better at hiding it."


    Crack


    The sound of the branch snapping was like a sonic boom, the sheer force of it warping the very fabric of space around them.


    The air itself seemed to buckle under the pressure, twisting and distorting as if reality itself couldn''t keep up.


    Ricky''s eyes widened in horror, realizing the gravity of the moment from the sheer ringing of his danger sense, but it was too late.


    Before he could move, before he could even think a single thought, before he could even comprehend what was happening, their bodies morphed together into something unnatural.


    A swirling vortex opened beneath them, an event horizon of shifting shadows and light, pulling them into a wormhole with a force that left no room for escape.


    The world around them bent and folded as the darkness enveloped them completely, erasing everything in a flash of blinding intensity as it was so fast that it left Ricky void of any last thoughts.


    "RICKY!" Alexander yelled, his voice cutting through the air with a raw desperation as he watched the young man vanish into the vortex. The space around them shuddered, the fabric of reality warping and twisting as if struggling to heal itself from the catastrophic damage caused by the wormhole.


    Alexander''s eyes burned with determination, his fists clenching at his sides as the remnants of the swirling darkness threatened to reclaim him. The world around him seemed to freeze for a moment, the very air thick with tension, as if time itself had momentarily stalled.


    "BUCEPHALUS, FORWARD!" Alexander roared, his voice a battle cry, as the chaos settled into an eerie silence. His eyes narrowed on the dark gate before him, a swirling abyss that could have led to any shadowed corner of the world¡ªor worse.


    Without hesitation, Bucephalus, the mighty steed, charged forward with an undeniable power.


    The beast''s hooves pounded against the ground, its body a blur of motion as it tore through the remnants of the distorted reality.


    But then, reality set in as before Alexander''s bead little eyes, the abyss began to collapse in on itself, its edges folding inwards like the jaws of a beast closing on its prey.


    The wormhole would close before Bucephalus could even make it halfway.


    Alexander''s heart skipped a beat as his eyes widened, a sudden wave of urgency crashing over him.


    Time was running out, and in that split second of hesitance a cold realization gripped him, the door was closing and he wasn''t going to make it while riding Bucephalus.


    But then, his gaze hardened, his chest swelling with an unshakeable resolve, one that only a man staring death in the face could possess as his mind was set.


    "Bucephalus, with all your might, you must launch me forward-"


    Snort


    "I WOULD RATHER DIE DOING SOMETHING THAN LIVE HAVE DONE NOTHING AT ALL!"


    The air around them seemed to freeze as Alexander''s declaration rang true in Bucephalus''s very bones.


    The sentiment could not be refuted and the mighty steed, adhering to its rider''s will, sparked something deep inside of him.


    BOOM


    Lightning struck the ground in that instant as a jagged crack of raw energy was seen splitting from the sky above.


    Bucephalus''s mighty body resonated with the light, its form outlined in the crackling brilliance as the beast jerked its head back.


    The force was immense, sending shockwaves through the air, and in the brief moment, Alexander scurried up onto the horse''s back, climbing with the urgency of a gerbil whose very life hung in the balance.


    Bucephalus, now with his master firmly in place, whipped his head forward, his powerful muscles tensing in preparation for the final push.


    WHOOSH


    The air around them rippled as if the fabric of reality itself had been torn and with this display of power, Alexander was launched forward with an unimaginable speed.


    His body, once tethered to the earth, was now nothing more than a blur against the backdrop of shifting space.


    The ground beneath him vanished, the wind a furious blur as he shot through the air, his heart racing faster than his body could follow.


    The wormhole was closing, its edges folding in like the jaw of a great beast, slowly shutting and swallowing its prey.


    Alexander''s eyes didn''t widen, but squinted as he reached out, his hand stretched toward the gap, his little finger grazing the edge of the closing portal before it missed.


    "I WILL MAKE IT!"


    Alexander roared, the sound reverberating through the air like thunder as he willed his claw forward, reaching for the impossibly small dot in the distance, no larger than a molecule.


    The gap between them was closing faster than he could move, the wormhole tightening with a relentless hunger.


    Yet, the burning fire within him, the fire that had sustained him through countless battles, surged to the forefront.


    His golden aura flared around him, a blinding light that surged from his body like a violent storm, pushing him forward with an intensity that defied the very laws of physics.


    His muscles screamed in protest as he extended his claw further, the strain of the distance and speed pushing his limits.


    Alexander couldn''t even see the dot as it had grown too small for any one being to gaze upon it and yet, he believed he could make it, that he would make it.


    With a final, all-consuming effort, Alexander reached out, his claw scraping through the last remnants of the wormhole''s grip, his fingers closing around the smallest fragment of the gap.


    And then, with a force that shattered the air itself, he reached forward towards the impossible for he was Alexander the great.


    The one who reached towards nothingness and disappeared.


    BOOM


    The battlefield erupted from the backlash of distorting space as Asterion, who had been rushing towards the space in pursuit as well, was blown backward by the sheer force of the explosion.


    The big brooding minotaur wasn''t nearly fast enough to reach it in time.


    "RICKY, ALEXANDER!" Asterion bellowed, his voice laced with urgency and desperation as he gazed up at the now empty space.


    The two, along with Lancelot, had vanished without a trace as the world seemed to hold its breath at the reality that the void had swallowed them whole.


    The four damned knights, who had been locked in a desperate struggle to escape, watched in silence as the barrier around them began to melt away. Asterion, still reeling from the loss, looked around at the disorienting sight before him.


    "Stop your meaningless escape and grab my daughter." Merlyn''s voice cut through the air, cold and commanding.


    His backup plan had been firmly set in motion at someone being compromised by the threat, forcing the four knights to slowly turn toward Asterion, who had fallen to his knees, a figure broken by the weight of his loss.


    But before they could fully process the scene, Asterion''s eyes burned with a fierce rage as a red aura began to radiate from the white minotaur, surrounding him like a storm ready to break.


    His grief twisted into fury as the pulse of his anger echoed through the air, shaking the ground beneath him.


    "What have you done with my friends."


    Meanwhile at the Starlight Citadel,


    Around 5 minutes earlier,


    A purple portal arrived within the lobby of the starlight citadel, acting as a door for the figures that slowly exited.


    "And here I thought it would be a warmer welcome." Morgana chuckled, looking around at the desolate and empty Starlight citadel.


    "Ah, as poorly decorated as ever," Morgana chuckled, her eyes scanning the same dull white and gold colors that had plagued the Citadel the last time he tried to seize control.


    The familiar scent of stale power hung in the air as black skeletons began to march out of the portal, their skeletal feet clanking on the stone floor.


    Soon, the coven members followed, with Cedric leading the charge, gazing around at the place he had only ever heard about.


    Clap


    Clap


    "Come now, you can gawk and awe after we take the command center." Morgana clapped her hands, grabbing the attention of the coven members who snapped their heads back to him.


    "This way," Morgana gestured, her hands extending as she directed the coven members to turn a specific corner as the others exchanged hesitant glances but obediently followed her lead.


    Cedric was the first to step forward, casting a sidelong glance at Morgana before rounding the corner.


    The black skeletons, moving like an eerie tide, blended seamlessly into the procession, their hollow eyes glinting as they carried the undead in their wake.


    As Cedric walked, he kept a vigilant eye on his surroundings as the corridors were impossible to get lost in, their layout too familiar.


    He quickly scanned over his shoulder to ensure no one had strayed, but before he could process anything further, he was swiftly pushed to the end of the corridor.


    "Morgana-"


    "Yes?" Morgana asked, her voice laced with impatience as she walked behind a timid witch, pushing her forward with a firm shove as the witch stumbled, barely managing to keep her footing.


    "Must you be so-" Cedric began, his words trailing off as he rushed forward towards the falling witch.


    "Yes, I''ve waited centuries and I''d rather not wait another second." Morgana interrupted Cedric, watching him catch the witch and help her to her feet.


    "So let us use it to its fullest rather than waste even a moment''s sliver." Morgana said, swaying her hips back and forth as she led them forward.


    Morgana led the charge toward the vault-like doors that stood between her and the beginning of her long-awaited destiny.


    However, instead of using magic or force to pry open the doors, they creaked slowly, revealing a lone woman standing on the other side of the corridor.


    "Greetings your majesty, I am Opal Luna Saturnyne." Saturnyne curtsied, addressing Morgana who swayed her hips back and forth while marching towards the control booth.


    "You can drop the act, I can already tell you are one of his drones-"


    "Actually, she is not."


    Then, on the big screen, Merlyn''s image appeared, his eyes locking onto Morgana as she glanced up at him as her fingers danced across the control panel, typing rapidly to gain complete control of the Citadel.


    "Saturnyne was supposed to be on the retreating vessel, heading towards Camelot," Merlyn sighed, his voice heavy with disappointment.


    "Yet here I find my daughter''s closest aide still lingering on the desolate Citadel." Merlyn''s eyes, however, told a different story, one of quiet resignation, as if he had expected this betrayal all along.


    "How pitiful." Morgana said, smirking after getting control of the citadel as she gazed back up at Merlyn.


    "But I am disappointed, Merlyn, since I thought you''d have something under those ragged sleeves of yours," Morgana said with a sly smile, tapping the control booth as it pulsed with a dark purple hue, signaling that she had, indeed, seized control.


    Sigh


    Merlyn let out a haggard sigh, his eyes lingering on Morgana, as though silently asking him to challenge her. It was a shame he had to finally play this card, after holding it back for so long.


    "Do it now, Cedric."


    Suddenly, both Saturnyne and Morgana turned, eyes wide, as Cedric lunged toward them.


    One hand held a small purple ball, glowing ominously in his palm, while the other gripped a dagger, its edge catching the dim light of the room.


    BOOM


    The floating purple ball exploded in Cedric''s hand like a pulse, radiating through the room.


    Immediately, any magic that had been gathering around the room instantly vanished, like vapor in the wind.


    Without a second''s hesitation, Cedric swung the dagger across Morgana''s throat, the blade biting into her flesh with a swift, practiced motion.


    SPLAT


    Blood poured from the gaping wound as Morgana''s hands instinctively shot up to clutch at her neck, her body already losing its strength.


    The warm crimson liquid seeped through her fingers, pooling around her as she collapsed to her knees, her breath ragged and strained.


    With every second, the flow seemed to intensify, drowning her in her own life force as she fell further, her body writhing, the floor beneath her slowly being stained red as she struggled to remain conscious.


    Saturnyne stood motionless at the side, slowly raising her hands with its cause being the dagger still pressed to her throat.


    Cedric didn''t move further, not even a twitch, waiting for Merlyn''s next orders.


    From above, Merlyn''s voice emanated through the orb, a low chuckle escaping his lips.


    "Oh Saturnyne, how could you do this~" Merlyn said, his voice dripping with mock sorrow, a theatrically pained expression playing across his face.


    "You can drop the act. I know everything." Saturnyne''s eyes narrowed, her gaze flicking to the bleeding corpse of Morgana.


    She didn''t flinch at the sight, her voice as cold and unyielding as steel as Merlyn leaned in closer to the orb, his chuckles echoing through the chamber.


    "Oh, you do now?" Merlyn asked, amusement clearly lacing his tone.


    He seemed to find the whole situation oddly entertaining, even with the blood pooling around Morgana''s still form.


    His eyes gleamed as if waiting for something to take place before he dropped this performance.


    Saturnyne''s lips twisted into a scowl as she glared at him, refusing to let his theatrics faze her.


    "I know it was you, I realized it was all because of you," Saturnyne said, switching her eyes as Merlyn slowly nodded.


    "You must be more specific, my dear, for I am responsible for too many atrocities to count," Merlyn said, nodding his head to the side before gazing back at her.


    "On my world-"


    "Yes, yes, I caused your civil war that killed millions, is that it?" Merlyn asked, admitting it with such a nonchalant demeanor that it actually left Saturnyne speechless.


    "And Morgana, you can stop messing around now." Merlyn side-eyed a certain witch huddled off to the side with the other coven members, the same one that Cedric had helped up after stumbling.


    "Oh, can I?" Morgana said, chuckling from the pack of shocked coven members as she slowly took off her ring, revealing herself.


    The device she''d been wearing began to hum softly, allowing magic to return to the room.


    What Cedric had denoted was an anti-magic EMP of sorts, disrupting the flow of magic and making it nearly impossible to cast spells while it was active while Morgana''s device neutralized the ripples and allowed the current of magic to flow once more.


    "So, is this one of the supposed ''weeds'' I''ve heard so much about?" Morgana asked, watching as Cedric''s grimoire began to open as she rolled her eyes, unimpressed by the display.


    "BILLOWING WIN-"


    "Crushing horde," Morgana uttered, her voice cold and commanding as she stuck out her hand that glowed with a purple hue.


    A massive surge of purple magic erupted from her hands, transforming into a torrent of damned souls¡ªtwisted remnants of those she had claimed before.


    The air itself trembled under the weight of the spell, and the seismic wind ripped through the space, sinking deeper and deeper into the ground.


    Cedric''s body began to sink into the very earth beneath him, as though it had turned to quicksand.


    The more he struggled, the more tightly the spell gripped him, pulling him deeper into its grasp.


    The souls, distorted and vengeful, wrapped around him, binding him to their eternal torment.


    His grimoire fluttered desperately, but the oppressive magic made it impossible to cast anything in his defense.


    The souls twisted and spiraled around Cedric, coalescing into dark, spectral chains that bound every inch of his being.


    Each link dug into his skin, anchoring him to the ground, and with a sudden, violent tug, they pulled him downwards.


    He was forced to his knees, the pressure unbearable as the chains held him in place.


    The purple light from the chains flickered as Cedric struggled to move, his efforts futile against the overwhelming force of Morgana''s magic.


    His breath came in short, ragged gasps, his body trapped beneath the weight of the spell.


    Through the heavy silence, Cedric heard the sharp, rhythmic sound of Morgana''s heels clicking on the floor.


    Each step resonated through the room, growing louder as she walked toward the monitoring booth.


    The entire point of bringing the coven members had been to disguise herself as one of them, a precaution to prevent herself from falling victim to plots like the one that had just unfolded.


    The Morgana who had been bleeding out, the one they had all thought was her, was in fact the original witch, the real Morgana''s true form, finally revealed.


    "I must say Merlyn, you are looking as wrinkled as ever." Morgana commented, walking forward and standing before the large projection of Merlyn.


    "Yes, well, it''s more about what''s inside, don''t you think?" Merlyn joked back, stroking his beard at the defiant sorceress who had finally been free.


    "I didn''t know you veiled yourself in rotting black waste," Morgana countered, earning a slight chuckle from him.


    "Oh, Morgana, still the same as ever," Merlyn replied. Morgana glanced to the side, watching Ricky fight Lancelot as she extended her hand.


    "Yes, well, it was fun catching up with you, but I have to go-" Morgana began to cast a spell, only to freeze, her eyes narrowing as she realized something crucial.


    Morgana''s teeth gritted together, her entire body trembling as the realization washed over her, there was a barrier suddenly placed around the Citadel.


    The second Morgana stepped foot into this place, Merlyn had already begun casting the barrier, calmly waiting for her to enter the trap.


    He hadn''t expected Saturnyne to be a part of it, but he would deal with her afterward.


    "You used him as a decoy-"


    "I played into your willingness to, how do you say, one-up me," Merlyn chuckled, his gaze settling on Morgana with a disappointed look.


    "You spent how many centuries trapped under my spell? Did you honestly think I couldn''t do it again?" Merlyn asked, genuinely curious, watching as Morgana furiously stared out the window.


    When Morgana turned back to the screen, her eyes widened as she saw the sight of Lancelot crushing the branch, a twisted smile on his face as the space around them warped and Ricky was transported away.


    The image on the screen flickered briefly, the shift in reality leaving her with a sharp sense of urgency.


    "But don''t worry, once Ricky returns then I''ll let you out-"


    "YOU BASTARD!" Morgana screamed, clutching her head as frustration boiled over.


    She was sick of being played with, and her control began to crack and in a childish fit of rage, she started brandishing her magic, the raw power swirling dangerously around her.


    Though cunning, her greatest flaw was her unwavering belief that in any room, she was the smartest.


    Merlyn, ever the calm and calculating presence, watched her tantrum with a disappointed gaze.


    He said nothing, letting her frustration unfold, until she finally huffed, exhaling sharply as the storm of her emotions began to calm.


    "Is it true?" Morgana suddenly asked, her voice laced with a hint of disbelief as her hair hung loosely around her face, casting shadows that framed her features as her piercing green eyes bore into Merlyn.


    "Yes, yes, I am a horrible scum-"


    "Is it true you sealed me away because I wanted the throne and not Camelot''s destruction?" Morgana asked, her tongue seething with anger as she glared at Merlyn.


    Merlyn stared at her for a long moment, his expression unreadable before knowing that she could no longer deny the inevitable which is the only reason he humored her at this moment.


    "I sealed you away because you were weak," Merlyn said finally, his tone cold and dismissive.


    "I taught you that the strong always dictate reality, and the weak were always meant to bend." Merlyn lectured, sighing at his sheer disappointment for the woman he had once hoped would be different, but like all the other Morgana''s, she was a failure.


    "But if you couldn''t disrupt the flow nor follow it, what use were you?" Merlyn genuinely asked, watching hsi words infuriated her to the very core.


    "MERLYN-"


    "But don''t worry, at least you can enjoy the show." Merlyn signaled, changing the view to the sight of New York and his little weeds that were slowly descending in on it.


    "I''m sure Ricky won''t be too pleased with you after he learns that you failed in your observations and let me abduct his children, then kill the useless ones," Merlyn''s words struck Morgana like a slap.


    Her eyes shrank, and she instinctively reached for her face, feeling the sudden surge of dread.


    The barrier had sealed her ability to contact her vessel, trapping her in this tense, suffocating silence.


    "You monster." Morgana whispered, unable to believe that she had yet again, played into his trap and was failing in the one aspect Ricky asked of her.


    "I am willing to be a monster if it means that Arthur-" Merlyn had a solemn gaze, only for Morgana to burst forth with a purple power.


    "ARTHUR IS DEAD, HE DIED, THIS IS ALL A F*CKING FANTASY!" Morgana screamed, slamming her palms onto the control panel and gazing up at Merlyn.


    "YOU CAN''T RESURRECT SOMEONE WHOSE SOUL VANISHED FROM HIS BODY, I SAW IT!" Morgana yelled, the memory of Arthur''s soul being ripped from his body flooding her mind.


    The image of his final moments haunted her, his essence torn away, leaving only an empty shell.


    She could still hear the echoes of that moment, and the thought of it made her voice tremble with both anger and disbelief.


    "We all saw, all of us saw the moment when Necromon ripped his heart out and took his soul with him as Arthur sealed him off, sacrificing himself to protect us, ALL OF US!" Morgana screamed, her voice cracking with fury as she locked eyes with Merlyn.


    But his expression remained resolute, unshaken by the storm of emotions surging within her.


    "A body cannot function without a soul. It''s impossible to resurrect him unless you want a hollow shell, like those grotesque beings you call Chimera''s." Morgana laughed bitterly, her disbelief swirling in the air as she stared at Merlyn.


    He remained silent, his cold gaze unwavering, waiting for her to finish her tirade, as if he knew something she didn''t, something that made her words seem meaningless in the grand scheme of things.


    "You can''t bring him back-"


    "I can, if I have enough energy." Merlyn''s voice resonated within the space, gazing at Morgana who looked up.


    "What?"


    "If I have enough energy, I can reach into the void and resurrect him." Merlyn spoke, his eyes filled with nothing but conviction as everything up until now had been for this very thing.


    "How is that even possible?" Morgana laughed, turning her head upwards towards Merlyn since it seemed unrealistic.


    "Unless-" Morgana was about to say something only for her face to pale, shaking slightly as Merlyn''s cold eyes stared back at her.


    "Yes, it is true, in Camelot''s greatest need, Arthur will be resurrected." Merlyn revealed, looking on towards Morgana who was left utterly speechless.


    "I have bound Arthru''s hollow shell of a body to the great city of Camelot, connecting them into a symbiotic union." Merlyn finally revealed his words leaving even Saturnyne shocked beyond belief.


    The reason Camelot had been stuck in stagnation for so long, unable to break free from the chains of medieval times, was because it couldn''t grow without Arthur.


    And Arthur couldn''t live without Camelot.


    But now, with Arthur''s body reduced to nothing but a hollow shell, Camelot itself, once a great city, had become a mere echo, a hollow shell of a theatrical play, trapped in time, playing out its last act without the force that had once breathed life into it.


    "Don''t you see?" Merlyn''s voice was laced with mania, his eyes gleaming with an unsettling fervor.


    "I''ve perfectly connected these two beings that shouldn''t be able to be formed into one, through the chain, the tether, that is otherworldly." Merlyn''s gaze shifted between Morgana and Saturnyne, who both stared at him, a mixture of disbelief and quiet horror in their eyes.


    "By harnessing the energy of the void and purifying it through the Starlight Citadel, I have kept the greatest symbiotic nature known to man alive! I HAVE KEPT ARTHUR ALIVE!" Merlyn laughed maniacally, his genius seemingly boundless.


    His words echoed with an intensity that shook the very air, as though the laws of reality themselves bent and twisted under the weight of his ambitions.


    If the rules of the ordinary world held true, it would be impossible but in the otherworld, this mythical land, the boundaries were different, and Merlyn reveled in that power.


    "But it all became ruined by that blasted Necronium!" Merlyn seethed, his fists clenching as the memory of that fateful event surged back, unraveling his carefully laid plans.


    The very thought of that neither god''s interference burned through him.


    Everything he had worked for, everything he had sacrificed, was destroyed in an instant by its chaotic force.


    "That horrid creature took Arthur''s soul with him and forced me to another alternative, which is what I''ve led up to today." Merlyn spread his arms wide, gesturing toward a grotesque creation unfolding before them.


    The air shimmered with dark energy as the massive construct emerged, its form twisted and unnatural, a perverse blend of magic and science. It was a monstrosity, a reflection of his desperation and obsession, born from the wreckage of his shattered plans.


    He smiled, a gleam of madness in his eyes, as if this abomination was the culmination of his brilliance, even if it came at the cost of everything he had once believed in.


    "Otherworld is not simply a dimension, but a living being, a living being that reacts out of instinct, like any other," Merlyn continued, his voice growing more fervent as he spoke.


    "And this, the limit of human innovation, will exemplify the connection I put in place when using Otherworld as a tether to connect Arthur and Camelot," Merlyn explained, his voice brimming with an almost manic excitement.


    "It will trick this being into believing that all of its feelings, its desires, are those of these two." Merlyn gestured to the grotesque black orb that loomed before them, its surface a shifting mass of mechanical tendrils and dark energy, pulsing with a rhythm that seemed far too alien for this world.


    It was an unnatural creation, a fusion of magic and science beyond comprehension, and yet Merlyn stood before it, utterly proud.


    "When Ricky threatens to destroy everything after he learns the truth of the reality of his family and comes to destroy everything, this machine will make Otherworld respond." Merlyn continued, his voice laced with a dark anticipation for what was to come.


    "Like any living being, Otherworld it will act on instinct." Merlyn''s gaze fixed on the grotesque orb, its pulsing energy intensifying, as though it understood his every word as he smiled, a twisted satisfaction on his face.


    "It''ll funnel energy to protect itself and thus, I will harness that energy to amplify this beacon and draw out Arthur''s soul from the void and finally bring his glory back into the known world." Merlyn''s eyes sparkled with fanatic intensity as he finished his words.


    "Finally, Camelot''s glory will return, and Arthur will rise again. The world will bow before him, and my genius will be immortalized as I prove her wrong." Merlyn held up his hands, laughing at it all since everything was coming to fruition as he had planned it too.


    What Merlyn is essentially saying is that the psychology of Arthur and Camelot have been bound together like a rope, tethered together by Otherworld.


    Otherworld isn''t just a place, it''s an actual living being, not like any normal dimension, but a being that exists purely to exist.


    It isn''t conscious in the way we understand consciousness; it simply reacts like any animal, acting purely on instinct.


    So, if Ricky threatens Arthur and Camelot to the point of complete destruction, he isn''t just threatening those two, it''s as if he''s threatening Otherworld itself.


    And Otherworld, acting on its primal instinct to protect itself, will respond defensively to the threat, leading to a cascade of events Merlyn can manipulate to bring Arthur''s soul back from the void.


    "A prophecy is just words that are meant to be morphed by hands." Merlyn muttered to himself, turning towards the two.


    "You''re probably wondering why I''m telling you this, right?" Merlyn suddenly asked, looking towards the completely shocked two.


    "It''s because I know it''s impossible for you to change the outcome I''ve set up." Merlyn subtly bragged, literally telling them that no matter what they did, he would get his way in the end.


    "Well, that wouldn''t stop you so I shall leave you with that." Merlyn chuckled madly, placing his hand before the orb.


    "Goodbye, Morgana," Merlyn said, cutting off the sight and communicating before leaving one last parting word.


    "I''ll see you when I''m ready."


    Author''s Note: You probs won''t see it now but I''m gonna take it slow with the Chapters coming up and probably break some of my super long Chapters up instead of posting it all at once like I usually did so I don''t get overwhelemed from it all.