Narrator- As Drew finds his new purpose to continue alongside Dravity through this new challenge. Xifier moves on to further his own mission for his people. Some might say there journey is just getting started, but with that let's take a look at how far Zack's training has come. He now enters week 3, let's see what he's come up with.
Captain K makes his way to the dining hall, as he enters he lets out a cloud of smoke. He's swiftly greeted by the lower-ranking members and makes his way through the line to grab a bite to eat for himself and Zack. Just before he can leave though Captain H calls him to the Captain's table. As he approaches he can tell H had a little too much to drink, but nonetheless, he speaks up "What's going on H? Did your mission go well?" H stares off into the distance before answering "Yeah, It was cool. Just an influx of Materia nothing too crazy. Sit, Sit have a drink with me Captain N Is on his way too!" K hesitates but decides to sit so he can talk to N about next week. K lets out a cloud of smoke before speaking "Pour me one!" Captain H H's smile grows even more, as he pours K a drink he begins to talk "So how's the training going with, umm… uhh… What's his name!" K can't help but laugh, he answers "It's going better than I thought. As each week passes, he picks up on what Is being taught and applies his own spin on it." He let's out a large cloud of smoke as H passes him his drink, H responds "I see! Keep an eye on that kid. Some people don't show their true colors until the time Is right…" An awkward silence falls between them as they sip their drinks and begin to think to himself "Man, talking to H when he's sober Is already boring but when he's drunk It's even worst." He lets out another cloud of smoke and just as he went for another sip the door fly open "Alright someone promised drinks and bitches! Where they at!" The whole dinner hall just continues to eat as If this happens every night. Captain H stands and starts to wave, saying "Over here, Captain N!" K shakes his head and kills his glass, N makes his way over and says "Alright I see you got the drinks… But where the bitches at? Don't tell K scared them away with his ugly ass! HAHAHAHA" H laughs with him, K quickly responds "Nah, you got me fucked up! Bitch you built like a 4 foot 2 monkey off crack!" H continues to laugh even harder while N just stands there, K speaks again "Yeah that's what I thought, shut the fuck up. Anyway, sit ya ass down." N "Shut up! H pour me a drink!" H answers while pouring both H and K a drink "Gladly!" As they all take a drink in sync, N breaks the silence "Shit, just finished my mission for today. Ain't got shit to do tomorrow what's the move?" H agrees and looks at K, he lets out a cloud of smoke and passes It to N before speaking "I would love to do some hoodrat shit with ya'll, but I got to finish this training with Zack…" But before he could continue N cuts him off "Bruh! When have you ever cared about that shit! Come on, It's been a minute since we all went out and fuck shit up." he begins to cough but tries to continue speaking "Damn…This shit… Strong as fuck K!" N tries to pass It to H but he says no, K speaks up "Still a square I see. But anyway back on topic, I need to focus on this not only for Zack but also to beat J in the bet." N laughs before saying "I don't know why you worried, you always win these bets!" H nods in agreement, K lets out a cloud of smoke before talking "Yeah, Yeah. I know. But something feels different about this one. I don't think J Is going to make this easy. He said he only went 10%, but according to Materia readings In the training room he went about 20% towards the end of the fight." N downs his drink while H responds "20%? Hmm… For J to use that much he must have felt pressured." N shakes his cup in front of H, K replies "Yeah, he even started the match with Excalibur Skills too. After these 3 weeks, I would put Zack at… 16%. That's only through training exercises." N downs another glass before speaking "Seems like he needs some battle experience! Shit, let me at 'em, that little shit rubs me the wrong way. Got to put him In his place early!" H and K both laugh. As they calm down K lets out a cloud of smoke before saying "Well, glad to see we're on the same page N. For his final week of training, I would like to test his strength against you." N slides his cup over to H for another drink, as he waits he responds "So, you already had this planned out huh?" K "Yeah, yeah. For the final week, he will have 7 days to try and beat you." He lets out some more smoke before passing It to N. There Is a long silence before anyone speaks. N lets out a large cloud of smoke, then finishes his drink. As he starts to stand he says "Fine. I'll help you out! But I still want to go out tonight!" He turns and looks at Captain H. He stands as well and speaks "Same. Well then K, I hope that the training continues going smoothly. I'll stop by next week and see how he fares against N." K nods and exits the dining hall with them. As they each go their separate ways, K looks at the time "Fuck! It's been 5 hours! I better hurry, Zack's probably hungry."
As Captain K makes his way back to the training room, he stops by his room to pick up a special box to bring back to Zack. As he approaches the training room door he listens to see If Zack Is still at work, but to his surprise nothing. He looks down at his watch for the time "It's 2 in the morning he probably fell asleep…" As K enters the room he can see Zack sitting in the middle, with no movement, and no sound. As K approaches Zack he pulls up a chair and sits, he puts the box and food on the ground next to him. A few minutes pass, and he sparks another blunt. After a few hits, K finally speaks "Yo! You sleep?" to his surprise, Zack answers "No Captain! Just clearing my mind so I can focus on my training!" As soon as he finished speaking his stomach began to growl. Captain K can't help but laugh before saying "Man If you were hungry say something! Here." K passes Zack the plate of food he brought from the dining hall. Zack begins to eat, and once again silence. K continues to smoke while Zack eats eventually, Zack finally asked a question "Captain! May I ask you something?" K nods and lets out a cloud of smoke, Zack goes on "What made you Join the C.U.G?" K begins to laugh hysterically before answering "Man, I haven't been asked that In YeaRs." As he calms down he lets out another cloud of smoke before looking Zack in his eyes. A long period of silence falls before them until K speaks "I usually give a shitty speech talking about the opportunities that C.U.G has to offer along with the benefits and that's usually enough. But you're looking for something greater. So how about a story to go along with food?" Zack eagerly sits up and continues to eat, K "Still just a kid… Well, to tell you why I joined C.U.G you must know where I came from. I was born in West City, specifically the City of Smoke. Top 5 most dangerous cities in Kansai. I was born in the YeaR 181, month 8 during late spring. I had 2 older brothers, one of them was 12 and the other was 7. I had an older sister as well, she was 5. I lived in a single-parent household, my mother took care of us 4. She did everything to make sure we had the things we needed to survive. She worked In a really popular whore house, she made decent money but at the cost of her humanity. All 4 of us were accidents and eventually, 2 more came 5 YeaRs after I was born. Twin sisters. The money she was making became so trivially that she started to multiply shifts just to keep the shitty apartment and feed us at least one meal." Zack looks down at his food and thinks to himself "The smallest things, we take for granted. I never once had to think where my next meal came from. Let alone worry about the roof over my head." Captain K continues "As we saw mother less and less, my 2 older brothers stepped up and tried to help support the family. Around YeaR 186 the local gangs were at their all-time peak. There was a war brewing between the 3. North gang, South gang, and Central gang. North and South gangs were the 2 main ones, with seemingly eternal conflict. Both sides had 100''s if not 1000's of members of varying strengths and utility." Zack cuts him off and says "What about Central gang?" K hits the blunt and lets out a cloud of smoke before speaking "Aye, let me get there. Damn… Appreciate a free story." Zack becomes too embarrassed to speak and just nods his head and continues to eat, K "Now where was I… Oh yes, Central gang. The weakest out of the 3, but somehow they managed to survive every war and conflict between the other 2 gangs. They lacked members but made up for It in the quality of the people they possess. The oldest brother went to join the Central gang to make a name for himself and bring home some major money. At the time he was 17, and he left the crib when I was 5. For a YeaR straight he sent money to the house. At first, It was small amounts but It helped out a lot in conjunction with mother's money as well. But after a while, It stopped. Nothing came for months, the second oldest went out to look for him. He was 13, he was gone for months. Only big sis, me, and my 2 Lil sisters were left. Mother never returned, but she still sent money to us for about a YeaR. Just enough to keep the apartment. At the age of 7 I along with my 3 sisters were kicked out of the apartment. We lacked the money to afford the room. At this point, I had to choose me or my family. We found a small group of kids that were also In the same boat as us, we joined them. We all pitched in to survive, It didn't matter how small or how big. Help was help. After we settled down, I sat down with my sisters and told them I'm leaving to join Central gang. They begged me not to leave but in the end, they understood that was the only option. I left the next day, early in the morning. I made my way to the center of the city, and as I got closer and closer It slowly started to get more and more peaceful. No gunshots, screaming, ops, north or south gang member to be seen. I approached what seemed to be a generic government building. As I entered, the place was trashed covered in liquor, drugs, blood, and the smell was unbearable. I walked towards the front desk, damn near gasping for air. A female dressed in designer clothes notices me and speaks "Hello and welcome to Central gang headquarters! Do you have an appointment?" Confused as hell, I somehow managed to answer without sounding dumb "No, but I'm here to apply tho…" The lady just looks at me for a few seconds, and eventually says "Alright then, please take a seat and I'll let the recruiters know." I nod, she stands and walks towards a set of double doors. As she opens them, music and yelling are heard. But as soon as the door closes behind her the sounds of partying are gone. I step over decaying dead bodies covered in the stench of hard liquor just to find a place to sit. I wait for a few minutes which turn into hours, and at this point days. As I slowly lose track of time, I think to myself Is this what both my brothers did, and Is it even worth It? After what seems like days of thinking about or not whether I should leave, the double doors open music comes blaring out, along with a man. I take a good look at him, he has dull red hair set in a high twist ponytail. He's fairly tall with a light-skinned complexion and looks decently young, he has a figure of someone who hasn't missed gym day once in YeaR's. He was wearing a white T with the word GUNS printed on It, with baggy black cargo pants. He wore white combat boots, but they were splattered with red stains. As he walked away from the door he went to the front and stepped outside. I follow him, as I stepped outside a cloud of smoke hits my face. The man laughs before speaking "What you doin here? This Is no place for a kid." Still coughing from the smoke I try to form words "I came to join Central gang. I spoke to the lady at the front desk, and she said she'll go and inform the recruiters and told me to wait." The man shakes his head and says "Did you make an appointment?" I shake my head, the man scoffs at my response and lets out another cloud of smoke before saying "She wasn't going to come back. You didn't make an appointment." I look him In his eyes and respond "Deadass?" He nods and lets out another cloud of smoke… A brief period of silence falls between us, we both watch the night sky while the nightlife of the city surrounds us. He eventually speaks up "You smoke?" I think for a few seconds and remember Big bro used to smoke around us, I've always wanted to try It. I nod and the man passes me the blunt. I hit It… I let the smoke sit In my lungs, thinking about the events that lead me here today, and what I must do. As I release the smoke the man asks me a few questions "So what's your name kid?" I answer him "Kevin." He laughs and says "Bruh, Kevin?" I nod and take another hit before passing It back. As he grabs the blunt he asks his next question "Where you from?" I reply "About 30 minutes south, I stay with a group of kids along with my 3 sisters. We all pitch in to help and protect each other." The man nods and lets out another cloud of smoke before asking another question "So, why do you want to join Central gang?" He takes another hit and passes me the blunt, as I hit It I think about my answer. At first, It was for my sisters and the other kids back home. But should I say that, or say something a Lil edgier? I exhale the smoke and respond "The only reason I have right now Is to provide for my sisters and help show the other kids that there's a way to move forward no matter the situation." the man nods again before replying "There were 2 kids a while back that had a similar answer. 1 of them had potential but greed got to him. The other was soft and got killed within weeks of joining." At that point, I knew instantly who they were. Both my brothers have died. The man continues "It's not bad that you want to provide for the lesser but you have to keep in mind that others are trying to do the same thing by any means necessary." As he takes the last hit, he flicks the roach to the center of the road. As cars pass by, we sit in silence before I spoke up "What's your name sir?" The man chuckles a Lil bit before answering "Sir? Thanks for the respect but It's not needed. But I go by Ju." I ask some more questions "Why did you join Central gang?" He didn't change but I could tell this question meant a lot to him, he answered after a few seconds "I had no choice, I was born into Central gang and have been a part of It ever since. Eventually, I became the leader of Central gang and here I am!" He stands straight up and smiles." I can't help but smile too. He continues talking "A reason beyond that would just be fake. Kevin, I like your energy. You have respect but you keep It real. I can tell you grew up in a good home but It was plagued by unfortunate events." Ju begins to yawn, as he stretches he says "Well, I don't care If you join. We can start the process of your application tomorrow, for now, let's get some sleep." I nod and follow him back inside. He stops in front of the double doors and speaks "Sorry, but since you aren't an actual member yet you got to sleep in the lobby. Those are the rules kid." I nod and ask him one more question before he left "You guys got some water at least?" He thinks for second and answers "Yeah, but uhh… Member-only!" He laughs while entering the next room. I smack my lips and went back to the chair I was sitting In, a few minutes pass and I fall asleep.
As the morning light shined through the front doors and windows, the sounds of violence and chaos were vaguely heard from the inside of the building. I woke up and walked towards the front desk again. The same lady from last night Is there, she speaks "Sleep well? Sorry about the mess we just moved In not too long ago." As she smiles, I take a look around now that there's more light I can see. Nothing but lifeless bodies of all shapes and sizes some beyond recognition. I answer her "Yeah, I slept pretty well. Anyway, I'm here to join Central gang. I tried to last night but you never came back." The lady laughs and says "Sorry, got caught up In the party. We were breaking In our new headquarters. But this time I won't forget, have you made an appointment?" I roll my eyes and reply "Yeah, I spoke with Ju last night." Before I could go on she cut me off "You spoke with Ju? You better not be lying to me, little boy." I shake my head, but she just stares at me. After a few seconds she stands up and starts to talk "Alright then, I guess since you spoke to Ju. Follow me." I walk behind her, she goes to the double doors and opens them. As I walk behind her I finally see what's in the other room. It's nothing but empty bottles, drunk people, druggies, trash, guns, and money. I start to think to myself "Is this really what my brothers went through just to join? They seem so unorganized." I sigh, and the lady starts to talk as we make our way to the other end of the room "Once again sorry for the mess, some of the lower rank members should have started to clean this morning but I guess there still fucked up. Well, this Is as far as I can go. Good luck!" She blows me a kiss and walks away, as I open the door smoke starts to escape, and a lot of It too. I start to cough "God damn! Is there a fire?" As I continue to cough, I can hear laughter coming from inside the room. Eventually, a voice can be heard "Aye come In and shut the door behind you." I enter and shut the door behind me, most of the smoke has left the room but there's still a thin layer of smoke that floats throughout the room. As my eyes adjust, I can make out a desk a few feet in front of me along with couches on both sides. Not much else, unless you count the females that are sleeping on the couches and on the floor. I hear a familiar voice "So your still interested? Step up to the table kid." I slowly make my way around the sleeping females until I stand in front of the desk, It's Ju. He leans back In his chair and kicks his feet up on the desk and lets out a cloud of smoke before speaking "You kinda killed the hot box. But I'll let that slide." I apologize, but before I could finish he cut me off "Aye none of that soft shit. You saw the lobby, we don't care who or what you are If you stand In our way, you as good as dead. Now let's start the application. I'm going to ask you 5 questions, answer them how you want to. After that… well let us see If you even make It that far." I stand up ready to answer, I've been waiting for this very moment. Ju asks the first question "If you had a million cash now, what would you do with It?" I answer without hesitating "I would use It to support my family and help others that are in the same situation that we are In." Ju nods and moves on to the second question "If you had to kill someone to obtain your goal or become closer to It. Would you?" I took a few seconds before responding "Probably, but what you guys do that would only get me killed… So at this point yes." Ju nods his head once again letting out a cloud of smoke. The room becomes silent, he then asks the third question "You want to take a hit?" I slowly walk forward and grab the blunt and give my response "Does that answer your question." He laughs a Lil as I let out a cloud of smoke "I like your humor, Kevin. But that alone won't get you In. So here's your fourth question, If someone you loved died because of your actions what would you do?" This one stumped me for a few minutes. I hit the blunt a few more times before passing It back to Ju. After a few more minutes I finally answer "I would feel angry at first, but soon realize that my actions have consequences. If I choose to hurt others why should I be exempt? So the anger that I feel at first will then turn into hope. Now there Is nothing holding me back from obtaining my goals, they already hit me where It hurts most and I've accepted It. Now the only thing I have to do Is move forward and not disappoint." Ju claps his hands a few times while letting out a cloud of smoke "Good answer. Kinda fucked but that's reality. Well then, the final question." Ju stands and walks over to me, now that I'm closer I can see why he's the leader, he's more than just physical strength. His mind Is sharp, his Materia refined. Ju speaks up "Now look me In my eyes, Kevin." I look Ju In the eyes. Emptiness, loss of hope, death, he almost seemed lifeless. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a Desert Eagle Mark XIX and pointed It at my head and asked his final question "Now, what will you do?" This time I had my answer "I accept my fate, and pass my goals and hope to the people that followed and believed In me. I have faith that one of them will achieve It or pass It down once again." He takes the gun off safe, and racks It. After a few seconds, he pulls the trigger… Nothing happens. At that moment I've never felt more at ease. Ju laughs and pats me on the head "You have a strong mind and heart. Not too many people have what you got, especially as a kid. Here take It." He hands me Desert Eagle Mark XIX, It's heavy In my hands but feels right somehow. Ju speaks "Go ahead shoot It! Just not at me!" As he laughs I turn towards the wall and aim down the sites and pull the trigger. In an instant the gun flys out of my hands. All of the females that were sleeping in the room woke up and start yelling at me all while Ju stands and laughs. After a few minutes pass, Ju finally calms down and starts to corral the females toward the door, as I follow I can hear people In the other room. As Ju opens the door and the rest of the smoke started to funnel out, I got a good look at some of the people. Most of them are on the older side, maybe mid 20's to late 50's. A mixture of males and females. Ju starts to make his way toward the center of the room, as he passes the other members he greets them and has some small talk almost like their family. As Ju reached the center he began to clap his hands, the room focused on him. Ju spoke "Alright, good morning killas! Here's the schedule for today, I got some intel that North gang Is going to hit one of South gang supply houses. I'm going to take a small team, let's say 5 total." The members rejoice and scream in excitement. Ju quiets them down before trying to continue to speak "Alright we'll go over the plan when the other 4 members are selected, cause one of them besides me has already been chosen." He turns and points at me, the entire room fell silent. Everyone became fixated on me, I told myself I got to say something and I did "Yo! Names Kevin." As soon as I finished speaking a random member In the back spoke up "Who the fuck Is this?" The room erupts, each member says some dumb bullshit. I look at Ju and he waves me over, he bends down and whispers in my ear "Well how will you get their attention?" As leans back up he smiles. I take out the Desert Eagle Mark XIX that he gave me and pointed It at the ground, I put a round In the chamber and pulled the trigger. This time holding the gun with everything I got. As the shot went off the room fell silent, I cleared my throat and said "I guess you guys didn't hear me. I'm the new recruit and I'm here to get shit done. At this point just call me K, apparently Kevin Is too soft." Ju slaps me on the back and speaks "Alright you heard him! Everyone give K a nice warm welcome!" At that moment everyone brought out their guns and emptied their clips. I couldn't help but smile and neither could Ju. Once everyone was done Ju spoke for a few more minutes "Now K here, he's special. He may be a recruit but I don't want to see any of that fuck shit. Treat him like family! Alright get this place cleaned up, that means you too K." I nod and start helping the others clean. After a few hours go by we finished cleaning the main room along with the front lobby. We got rid of the dead ops and bottles, along with all the trash and blood stains. For a bunch of so-called thugs and killers, they sure know how to clean. As I talk to some of the other members, I soon realize that each one of them is unique and provide different utility to the gang. Mark Is the cook, he takes a small squad and goes out to get ingredients to prepare meals for the other members. Dee Is the local weaponsmith anything gun-related he's got you. Marie… I can't think of a nice way to put It, basically, she's a hoe for central to get intel on the other gang members and their movements by going to various whore houses and working. There are plenty of other members and they contribute just as much as the last one. I almost feel at peace. After a few more hours of talking with the other member Ju comes out of his office and starts to make his way toward the center of the room while talking "I see yall! Got this place all cleaned up and you got rid of the smell too." The members agree with him, Ju continues "Alright, I've selected the other 4 members." The room falls silent, waiting for Ju to speak again. Ju "K go ahead and come to the center, along with Dee, Chop, Kate, and finally Mak." A loud scream can be heard from the back "FINALLY! HAVE YOU RECOGNIZED MY SKILLS?" Ju laughs as he speaks "Mak just step up to the front before I change my mind." As the 5 of us come to the center, Ju gives some last-minute orders to the others "I want food to be done before we come back, along with next week's budget put together. We need to fix up the ole crib. As for you 5 follow me." The remaining members get started while the 5 of us follow Ju. We make our way to a set of stairs in the back of the main room. We go up to floor 3, but before he opened the door he turns around and calls me to the front. Ju "Alright K, this here Is the weapons vault. We have everything from pistols, SMGs, ARs, snipers, LMGs, grenade launchers, and explosives, you get the point. Very few people have access to this room, for obvious reasons. The 5 of you are free to take what Is needed for any mission, just know If I deem you unfit don't take a single step into this room." We all respond In sync "YES!" Ju "Alright then, let's get ready!" As Ju opens the door, the smell of gunpowder fills my nose. Dee on the other hand begins to spazz "Oh my god! We've got guns I've only dreamed about!" As Dee makes his way around the room, the others start to wonder as well. I can remember the layout of that room to this very day. Weapons of mass destruction lined up from one end of the wall to the other, in varying sizes. Dee "Not only do we have classics like AK-47s, Uzis, to AR-15s. We also have access to high-caliber weapons like Barret-M107, HK416 AR, and a shit ton of MG3s! Don't even get me started on some of the rarer weapons in here!" Ju can't help but laugh "Aye what can I say, I like guns." Kate scoffs at that remark and speaks "Bitch we robbed the government, these ain't even yours." Ju shakes his head "I wouldn't say we robbed them, we just uh… You know… Yeah, you're right. Fuck it, they have plenty." Kate smiles along with Chop. I continue to look around the room trying to figure out what I should grab, but not a second passes before Mak approaches me and starts talking "Well then K, what you thinkin about gettin?" I respond "Something that doesn't fall out of my hands when I shoot, along with something I can carry." Mak begins to walk around the room grabbing things off the wall and shelves. After a few minutes, he calls me over to an empty table and says "So, I pulled some weapons that you might like and you could use at your current level. Take a look at these and tell me what you think." I nod and start to look at the table, there was a decent selection. As I went to pick up one of them, Dee comes from behind and started to talk "That one there Is an uzi, It has an open-bolt design and Is one of the first weapons to use a telescoping bolt design to allow for a more compact gun. That's a good choice but It does lack range, Its max distance Is about 200m." I mess around with It for a few minutes before putting It down, as I set It down a gun catches my eye as I go to pick It up Dee starts to ramble once more "That one Is a personal favorite out of the SMGs for me. Skorpion EVO 3, is lightweight, and compact for easy conceal and carry. Along with a switch for semi, 3round burst, and full auto." I bring It up to my shoulders and aim down sites, It was light, and my movement didn't feel restricted. I place this one off to the side. As I look at the table some more Ju starts to talk "Alright, we can do this later hurry up. We still got a job to do!" We respond In sync once again "YES!" Dee and Mak quickly start grabbing things off the shelf. While Kate was filling a bag full of explosives and ammo. I quickly grabbed 2 Uzis and the EVO, along with a bag of ammo. As we finish up Ju starts to give us a rundown of the plan "Alright, Chop your our eyes. Find a good spot to post up and scout the area, here's the address we'll meet you there." Chop nods. Grabs his guns and heads out. Ju continues "Next up Is Kate, once Chop gets into position, we need you to blow a hole In that bitch and start the chaos!" Kate smiles and responds "Did you even need to tell me that!" Ju "You right! Dee and Mak will take orders from Chop, he's your eyes so make sure you listen. I'm looking at you Mak." Mak smacks his lips before speaking "What you mean by that? I'm the best listener In this room!" I couldn't help but laugh, Mak "So you find that funny huh, well then let's just hope you can make It back." I quickly reply "Put a 100 on It!" Mak laughs but answers "Man I'll put 1000 that you won't make It back!" Ju butts In "Alright then how about I double It then, I like a Lil rivalry." We both respond In sync "YES!" Ju "Alight, that just leaves me and K. Well enter from the back, better not slow me down or make me look like a fool!" "Come on now Ju, I got you!" Ju "I hope so, I just 2 bands on you. But anyways we ready?" Once again we answer In sync "YES!" Ju "Alright then, lets good get this party started!"
As we approach the South's supply house, we stop. Kate splits off from us along with Dee and Mak. Ju brings out a flip phone and makes a call "Aye Chop you in position?" A few seconds pass "Bet well then, help Kate get close to the front so she can blow a hole in that bitch. And have Dee and Mak make the push. Me and K will come through the back." A few more seconds pass "Sounds good, stay up!" He hangs up and turns toward me "You ready K?" I froze up, but not even a second goes by before Ju smacks the back of my head and says "Aye don't ever do that, especially now! Not only Is your life on the line but mine, Kate, Dee, Mak, and Chop." I respond "Got It, won't happen again. I just got a lil nervous don't want to disappoint ya know." Ju smacks the back of my head again this time way harder than before and says "Don't lie to me, but most importantly yourself. It's ok to be scared, everyone Is. No matter how strong you are, fear is always there. The difference Is the weak let the fear control them while the strong control fear. Remember that." I take a deep breath and answer "YES!" We wait for a few minutes. More and more South members show up and enter the building, eventually Ju's phone rings and he answers "Yurrr… Bet. You say 300 North members… Cool, I counted 500 South members entering the building… Bet, I'll call you If plans change." He hangs up and says "Well, there's more people than I planned for on both sides. But the plan should still work. Now In 5 minutes, Kate will approach the front and take out the guards while Chop supports. After that, she'll plant the explosives on the front. In about another 5 minutes the North members should be there. At that point, the explosives will go off hopefully taking some of the North members out while also alarming the South members. That's our cue to head towards the back to catch the important figures trying to escape and push In from there, while Dee and Mak hit the front while Chop supports. Also don't worry about Kate, If the explosions stop either we did our job or she's dead." I reply "How much time we got?" Ju smiles and answers "That's better, and 3 minutes." For those 3 minutes, I try to clear my mind thinking of nothing but what I want to achieve and protect. Once those 3 minutes were up the plan was In motion. Kate slowly made her way towards the front, but she never once attacked. The South members just fell like flies. As she reached the door, she started to plant the explosives. Once that was done she collected the bodies and went back into hiding. Ju speaks "Smooth, we got another 5 minutes. Check your ammo and ready your guns. It's time to show you what Central gang Is all about K!" I respond "YES!" As I ready my weapons, the 5 minutes fly by and I can start to see the North members approach. I start to worry, 6 of us versus 300 North and 500 South members. Even If they take each other out, the sheer numbers they have Is frightening. As they got closer, Ju's smile grew. Then out of nowhere, the explosives go off. Ju jumps up and starts to run to the back of the building, as I stand up I get one last look and all I see are body parts and guns falling from the sky. I couldn't help but smile. While me and Ju head towards the back he speaks up "Alright, you don't have to do anything crazy just give me some cover fire and take a few people out I can do the heavy lifting!" I laugh but still answer "I got you!" As we get closer Ju stopped and waited outside the back doors. While gunfire and explosions can be heard we stood there and waited, and waited. Finally, the door opened, In an instant, Ju shot and killed 2 of them. I readied my weapon but in the time It took to do that Ju has already killed 8 more until what looked like one of the leaders finally walked through the doors. The man looked terrified, but that didn't stop Ju. He slowly approached the man saying "As one who has sinned by the gun, death by the gun Is his atonement. I learned this the day I stepped Into power, yet every leader I've killed across both gangs seems to share one thing In common. Do you know what that Is?" The man fell to his knees pleading for his life, begging for mercy, crying like a child. As I stand and watch I almost feel happy like I've been waiting for this moment my whole life… Justice. The man continues to cry, begging, but Ju doesn't bat an eye. All he does Is let out a sigh and say "Man at least do something different, I've killed at least 30 leaders on both sides since I've been leading and they all beg the same way. At least tell me your name." Just as the man started to speak Ju shoots his head off. He then calls me forward, as I get closer he starts to talk "K, don't be like them. Stay true, and accept your actions." I nod and look down at the lifeless bodies killed in front of my very eyes. It's different seeing old bodies that have been dead for days. Seeing live people just fall becoming stagnant never moving again. Ju pats me on the head and says "The fun just started. Don't get caught up now, It's time to show your true colors K." I let out a deep breath and answer "YES!" He smiles and walks through the back doors, I follow. As we enter the noise matched the chaos, bullets flying everywhere, explosions still going off. Ju starts to yell "KATE! KATE!" off In the distance a voice can be heard "I'm good, stop slacking and get to work!" Ju laughs and says "You heard her, now you're the front man. I'll cover you, got It!" I smile and laugh "Ju, just sit back and watch. I think I get It!" Ju becomes surprised and gives a thumbs up. I ready both Uzis and start spraying without a care in the world. I counted each person I killed as they fell. "1…2…3…4…5…6…7…8…" Ju heard me and spoke up "I'll count, you just focus." As I continue to push forward, I slowly become more in tune with my guns. Each shot I took was more accurate than the last, as I reload not a single moment Is wasted. We continued to push further into the building clearing room after room. Until we finally caught up to Kate. Ju asks her a question "So how's It going?" Kate scoffs and replies with an attitude "Fuck off, you know exactly how It's going!" Ju can't help but laugh, as he stands there and continues to hold a conversation with Kate. I keep covering them, killing one person after another. As I reload, I speak up "So… are you two like a thing or something?" Ju answers immediately "Yeah, we've been seeing each other for some time now…" But before he could continue further Kate cuts him off "Hell no. He's nothing but a self-centered, dirty, ugly, ignorant ho!" I could help but laugh and neither could Ju. But At that moment, I slacked. A handful of South members pushed us…My heart stopped, this Is where It ends. In an instant, their bodies fall. Ju keeps laughing but speaks "Come on K, I thought you said I could sit back?" Kate, on the other hand, was surprised and also dumbfounded "You put your life on a kid, I don't care how good he Is that's just stupid. See this Is what I'm talking about…" As she rambles on, Ju walks over to me and says "See, she does like me. But you got to stay focused, the job isn't done yet." He stands and goes back over to Kate, she quickly stopped talking and Ju gave her some orders. She smacked her lips but replied "YES!" And went out the back, Ju gave me a thumbs up and pointed towards the front, and said "Let's make out way outside and see what Dee and Mak are up to." I nod, as I continue to clear the rest of the rooms I run out of ammo for my Uzis and switch to the Skorpion EVO 3. We approached what seemed like the front or what was left of the front. To my surprise, I see both Dee and Mak fighting side by side. I can't tell what gun Mak Is using but he never once stopped to reload, on the other hand, Dee seemed like he was out of ammo and just picking up guns off the hundreds of dead bodies. I couldn't help myself and ran to support them. As I got In range Mak noticed me "Aye! The new recruit made It out, welcome to the front lines. Post up and get to work!" I reply "YES!" We continue the fighting for about an hour. At that point, the North member's numbers started to thin, as they tried to make a retreat a loud boom can be heard from far away, and like before the bodies just dropped. Dee makes his way to me and Mak and says "Don't worry K, that's just Chop. Best sniper I've ever seen, now that I think about It he's one of the only few too. Snipers can be hard to get for your average gang…" Mak cuts him off and says "Aye! We got a job to finish!" Dee nods and goes back to killing. A few more minutes pass and eventually, no one stands but us. Ju walks towards us clapping. Dee and Mak stand proud, and so do I. Ju speaks "Good job, collect anything of use and let's head back. I already told Kate to get what we came for, so she'll meet us back at the crib." We reply In sync "YES!"
About an hour later we all meet up at the crib. But this time we go around back. We had a few vehicles and some turrets for whatever reason. Dee and Mak talked about their fight on the outside while me, Ju, and Chop listened. We were waiting on Kate to show up. Another hour passes before Kate arrives. She pulls up in a truck with a few big crates in the back. As she parks and steps out Mak speaks up "Damn what took you so long?" Kate angrily responds "I don't know maybe I was the only one getting these damn crates full of who knows what. And had to drive here and not be seen by the other gangs!" Mak laughs and says "shit, could have asked for some help… Not saying I would have but maybe the recruit here could have!" He continues to laugh, but Kate's had enough she pulls out an Fn Five-seven and points It at his head, and says "Go ahead and say some more bullshit again, I've been waiting for ass to die. Might as well do It myself." Mak puts his hands In the air and continues to laugh "Please don't shoot!" Just before Kate could do anything Ju comes out and claps his hands "Alright, good to see everyone's safe! Now K and Mak get those crates off the truck." Mak sighs, while Kate chuckles a lil. While Mak and I start to move the crates, Ju keeps talking "That was a great performance. Excellent teamwork too! This will be the new squad for the more important jobs, so get used to each other." Kate slams her foot into the ground and says "There's no way I'm working with a bunch of fuck boys like yall, I rather clean and do maintenance all day than deal with yall bullshit…" Just before she could continue Ju cuts her off "Remember what I told you earlier Kate?" At that moment Kate not only stopped talking but looked embarrassed, but she still responded "Yes Ju…" Just as Mak and I finished removing the crates off the truck Dee speaks up "So what's in the crates? New guns, materials, MONEY?" Ju responds "Close, something even greater!" We only get excited to see what It Is. Mak "Come on, the suspense Is killing me!" Ju rubs his hands and dawns an evil smile "Alright, let me show you." We all gather around one of the crates, waiting for Ju to open It… As he opens It, It smelt familiar. Like… But just before I could finish my thought Kate beats me to It "There's no way you had us fight South and North gang for hours just so you can have some crates full of dope!" We all stop and look at her like she's crazy, she quickly changed her statement "I mean… I guess that's cool…" Ju clears his throat and says "Now that I can talk, yea we did. Not only for our personal use but to sell as well. We need some more cash to better equip ourselves. There's going to be a war soon and we must win this one If we want to help the city. This Is only the beginning and the key to our success Is right here." To my surprise, he didn't point at the crates, but instead at me. Everyone quickly started to yell and talk over one another, but for the first time Chop spoke "Shut up and let him finish!" Ju "Thanks Chop." He nods and Ju continues "Like I said K here Is the key. For his first mission, and probably his first time even carrying a gun he killed 426 South members and 63 North members. He left himself open once. Not one time did he hesitate to kill any of those people." I couldn't help but smile, and I picked up where Ju left off "Also I think a few people here lost a bet and owe me about…. 3 bands!" Mak sighs and Ju can't help but laugh. He pats me on the back and says, "See, this right here. A true killa. Someone like this only comes around every few years. We must train him and make sure he goes down the right path." Chop smiles and talks once again "I saw It with my own eyes. He didn't waste time on any action. He was the first to help Dee and Mak, he covered their blind spots before I could. And from the sound of It, Ju barely did anything." Dee claps his hands, Mak slowly follows. Kate speaks up "Yeah, he's pretty good. But don't let that get to your head like the fool next to you." I respond "I won't, I know exactly what I'm fighting for and the consequences that come from It. I just hope you stand by me the same way you do each other, 'cause I know I will no matter what!" The others all agree. We talk for a lil bit longer before we head inside to tell the other members about our plan. But before we do Ju stops us and begins to talk "Alright, we're going to be busy for the next few months so I'll give you guys a small break." The 5 of us get excited, but Ju continues "But I want our teamwork to get better so I'm going to put yall In groups…" The excitement slowly fades, Ju "Don't lose that enthusiasm now! Anyway, Mak and Chop, you'll be in one group. Dee and I will be the next group, and finally, Kate and K will be the last group!" Kate scoffs but doesn't say anything. Ju smiles and says "Good! No complaints, that's what I like to hear. Report to the weapons room 2 days from now. Also, K come get your money tomorrow morning." I nod, and we continue to head inside. As we talk about our mission and plan with the other members I slowly feel more and more at home. Like the family I always wanted. As the night progressed we eventually ate, cleaned up the crib, and did some last-minute chores before going to sleep.
Before I know It, It's the next day. I pick up my cot and some of my belongings and neatly stack them. I pick up my only possession, my Desert Eagle. As I make my way toward Ju's office I greet some of the other members getting ready for the day. They all gave me ideas of things to do In the city on my day off, along with some cash. When I approach the door, I knock. It instantly opens, to my surprise It was Kate. "Good morning Kate!" She doesn't respond, but I can hear Ju In the background laughing "Don't mind her, she's not really a morning person. Come, come!" I walk towards the desk, Ju then pulls out a bag and puts It on the table, and says "Good job the other day, not only did you come back alive but you pulled your weight. I threw a lil bit extra In there. Treat yourself, you deserve It!" I grab the bag and look Inside "GOD DAMN!" That was more than just lil bit extra, just before I could speak Ju cuts me off "Nope! Not a word, It's yours!" I nod and throw the bag over my shoulder, we talk for a bit longer before Kate finally speaks up "You guys talk like you've been friends forever. Let's go, I haven't eaten breakfast yet." I wave goodbye to Ju as Kate and I exit his office. Not a word Is said until we exit through the front doors, I go to break the silence "So… Where do you want to eat?" Kate doesn't respond but keeps walking down the street, I follow. We walk for about 20 minutes before we come to a shop. As she enters I stop to take a look "A watermelon shop? For breakfast? Weird." I enter, and there's a decent line. I stand next to Kate, a few minutes go by and the line has barely moved. I start to look over the menu and It's nothing but watermelon dishes, from drinks to sandwiches, to full-course meals all pretty cheap too. I ask Kate a question "So… What's good here?" She finally speaks "I get the cereal, It's watermelon milk with dried watermelon chips." I nod and respond "Sounds pretty good! I think I'll try that." A few more minutes go by and we come to the counter, a small boy no older than me comes and takes our order and to my surprise he recognizes Kate. He speaks "Welcome back Kate! The usually?" She responds with a smile "Yeah… Add another one too for this kid." The kid looks at me and says "Is this your lil brother or something?" She laughs and shakes her head before responding "Hell Nah! Let's just call him a friend of an acquaintance of the job I work for." The kid shrugs his shoulders and goes back to make our order. Kate and I find a table to sit at. I try to break the silence once again "So… Seems like you come here often." No response, I go to ask a question "Well then what else do you have planned for today?" She answers "Not much. Don't usually get days off like this. Ju probably did this for you." Just before I could answer the kid that took our orders came to our table and sat our food down "Will this be together or separate?" Kate responds "Separate, please. Thank you." He responds "Okay, pay when you're ready!" As he walks away I look down at the food. The watermelon crisp was cut In the shapes of guns, some of them I could recognize. I smiled, and Kate starts to talk "He does that every time, I always wondered how long It takes him to do that." I try to keep the conversation going "He has real talent. Does he do this for every order?" As she takes a bite she responds "I don't think so. If I'm going to be honest, I think I'm the only one who orders this." I look back down at the cereal and think to myself "The only one? There's no way this shit Is nasty right? No way…" I go for a bite… To my surprise It's amazing. The cool taste of the milk with a hint of watermelon flavor alongside the crisp texture of the watermelon chips. I speak up "This Is amazing!" Kate shows a small smile and says "Yeah I know." We continue to eat In silence enjoying the food and each other's company. As we finish Kate leaves a 10 on the table, I do the same but before I leave I go back to the front and wait for the kid that served us to come out from the back. As he comes closer to the counter he starts to talk "Is there something else I can get you?" I quickly respond "Nah I just wanted to say that you did a really good job on the food!" He smiles and answers "Thanks! I try my best!" I take a good look at him, he has straight black hair that falls to the tops of his ears. Along with light brown eyes. I can tell that he trains by his destroyed hands. I reply "I can tell. Anyway, the names K, you'll probably see me around. What's yours?" The kid's smile grows even more before answering "K, that's pretty cool. I also have one letter for a name. It's X!" I go to shake his hand but before I could Kate opens the door and starts yelling "Come on! We don't have all day!" X and I laugh as I leave I wave goodbye. When I step outside Kate talks again "Had me waiting out here, who the hell do you think you are?" I respond "I just wanted to get to know the kid. Do you even know his name?" She sighs before answering "No, and I don't care. As long as the food Is good, there will be no problems." I shake my head, we stand for a few minutes before I speak up "So… what's the move now?" We stand In an awkward silence for a few minutes before Kate speaks up "That's all I really wanted to do today. I guess we can do what you want for a few hours." I was surprised by her answer but I didn't hesitate to take her up on the offer, I respond "Cool, well first I want to get some food and clothes." She replies "Fine…" For the next 2 hours, we go around picking up clothes and food. She even helped pick some things out, sometimes she even looked like she was having fun. After we finished I looked at the time. To my surprise, the sun was beginning to set. Kate asked me a question "What's all this stuff for anyway? We got food at the crib and most of these clothes are for girls… No… Don't tell me…" Before she could even say anything else I stop her "NO! They're not for me, they're for some people I know. I want to go drop them off before the day Is over so let's hurry." Kate sighs in relief before saying "So where are we going?" I reply "30 minutes south of the main crib." She quickly cuts me off "We really shouldn't go that far. That's really close to the South gang's territory. But If you insist." I smile and answer "Thanks!" It takes about 45 minutes to get there, by that time the sun has set. As we continue to walk Kate speaks up "So where the hell are we going? There Isn't much out here. Just a bunch of bums and shacks." I reply "We're almost there just around this corner.." And just like that, back to where I started. I frantically look around for my 3 sisters, checking every shack. Some of the kids recognized me and pointed me in the right direction. As I approach the second to last shack I knock. I can hear some rustling to get to the door, but before It opened a shy voice started to talk "Who Is It?" I respond "Do I even have to say anything!" In an instant, the door flew open, and there stands one of my twin sisters. As she begins to cry, the other twin wakes up saying "What's all that noise, geez! I'm trying to get some sle…" When she comes to the door she stops and rushes toward me. Both holding on to me for dear life. A few minutes pass before I speak up "Where's big sis?" Someone taps me on the shoulder, and as I go to turn around I'm knocked to the ground. As I lay there, I reminisce about the past. Thinking about the good times we had. After a few minutes, they finally let go. We sit on the ground all smiling at each other. I finally break the silence "I got some food and some new clothes for you guys! I know this doesn't fix much but…" Big sis cuts me off and says "It's about time!" Too embarrassed to speak, I smile. "But, thank you! I knew you would come back!" the twins chime In "So what did you get us? Hopefully nothing ugly or nasty!" I laugh "Well this time I had some help. O by the way this Is Kate." I stand up and point toward her. My 3 sisters begin to circle her, almost analyzing her. Big sis asks the first question "Is this your girlfriend? If so, she's kinda old!" I look at Kate, for a second she was finna rip them a new one but she stopped herself before speaking "No I'm not his girlfriend. Were just.. Uhh… Friends. Also, I'm not that old… Am I?" One of the twins laughs while the other speaks "I like you! You're pretty just like mom!" Kate couldn't help but blush. Now that I get a good look at her Kate Is very pretty. She has a nice tan, along with a defined mature body. Her hair is straight and black falling just to her shoulders. Her eyes are a dark blue… As I start to get lost In thought, Kate snaps her fingers and says "Remember FRIENDS!" I laugh to play It off before switching the subject "How about we eat! I brought good food from around the city!" The four of them agree, and we enter the shack. As I prepare the food, Kate helps my sisters try on their new clothes and keep them busy. After about 30 minutes we start to eat, as I set the food down I explain the dish "Today I stopped by the docks and picked up some fresh shrimp. As we made our way through the city I picked up fresh fettuccine, alongside some spices and other things. Also no vegetables!" But just as I finish all 4 of them just finished the bowls, I laugh and say "Damn! Well, there's plenty more If you guys are still hungry!" As we eat, my sister tells stories of what happened while I was away, along with some of the past especially ones that make me look like a bitch. But as the night continued Kate didn't seem to mind the pointless conversations and somewhat stupid stories. As a few hours pass my sisters eventually fall asleep next to Kate and so does she. I finish cleaning up and put everything away. I step outside, the moon is full. The nightlife can be heard In the distance. Violence, ignorance, and sadness are all I hear now. I take out a blunt and light it. As I take a hit, the smoke sits In my chest. I slowly let my problems fade and soon my mind Is filled with nothing but good memories from not only the past but the current as well. After a few minutes I open my eyes, I could feel the tears running down my face but I felt nothing. As I go to wipe them away, somebody starts to talk. Startled, I pull out my Desert Eagle and turn. To my surprise It was Kate, she rolls her eyes and says "A lil late for that don't you think." I quickly apologize as I put my gun away, she laughs and keeps talking "I see why Ju believes In you. You have a certain aura that others lack. Something special." For the first time, something genuinely nice came out of Kate's mouth, I was at a loss for words but she kept going "At first I didn't like you and a lot of other members didn't either. But after that first job, you earned a lot of respect from the others." I respond "Thanks…" Kate sighs before talking again "You're so weird, but that's what makes you, you." She stands and walks over to me and kisses me on the cheek before she steps inside she says "Don't change Kevin." As she closed the door behind her, I look at the blunt and hit It a few more times. A few minutes pass, and as I go for the last hit of the blunt I think to myself "Are we still friends? Also how old Is she?" As I sit and get lost In thought I slowly fall asleep, holding onto my gun just In case.
I get up early, spark a blunt and watch the sunrise. As I go to take the last hit big sis comes out of the shack and starts talking "So, you're going to leave?" As I toss the roach to the ground I answer "Yeah. Sorry…" As I turn to look at her, sadness enters my heart. All we've done Is leave each other and hope that we come back. I take a knee and place my hand on her head and say "This time I promise I'll come back! I'll try and get some more time off. It might be next week or next month, It could be even longer than that. But I will come back!" She nods her head as I wipe away her tears. As I stand I change the subject "How about some breakfast? I learned something new while I was In the city, you might like it!" She nods and we got back Inside. Both the twins and Kate are still asleep. While they sleep big sis and I start to work on breakfast. After about an hour we finally finished, and we tried our best to recreate the watermelon cereal but It looks a lil different than the one that X made. I go to wake up the twins and Kate, but as I go to reach out Kate speaks up "Don't touch me." I sigh and reply "Whatever… Breakfast Is ready." The twins yell In excitement. We all gather around the table and look at the bowls. The first to break the silence was Kate with her laughter "WOW! You really tried to remake the cereal. This shit ugly as hell!" I smack my lips but before I could answer her big sis spoke up "I told him the same thing!" I quickly respond "Just five minutes ago you were helping me and saying It looked good!" She shakes her head and grows a devious smile before saying "I only said that so I wouldn't hurt your feelings bro." Kate couldn't help but laugh along with the twins. "Well next time make yall own food then!" As we finish our food Kate and I gather our things and get ready to leave, we said our goodbyes and start the walk back to the crib. While we were walking Kate broke the silence "Not a word about this to anyone, GOT IT!" I couldn't help but laugh, but I reply "Yeah, Yeah. Softy." She couldn't help but laugh too after that, the rest of the walk was In silence. But I didn't mind It. We eventually make our way back to the crib and report to Ju. As we enter his office, Mak was laying on the couch while Chop was sitting on the other. Ju jumps up from his chair and runs over to us, he hands me a blunt before saying anything. After I hit It I pass It to Kate, she takes a seat next to Chop. Ju then starts to talk "So, how was the break?" I answer "It was pretty good. Got to see the city, spent some of my cash, and got to see my sisters." Ju can't help but smile, Mak chimes In "How old are your sisters? Asking for a friend of course." I quickly answer "Not old enough creep." Mak rolls his eyes and goes back to smoking. Ju picks up where he left off "Good now that the break Is over It's time to get back to work! First up Kate!" She stands and passes the blunt to Chop, Ju continues "I need you to asses are current weapon and explosive supply. I need an inventory of everything we got, take Dee with you too." Kate nods and heads out, Ju goes on "Alright now the important stuff." Ju sits next to Chop and signals me to sit. Mak exhales some smoke and passes me the blunt. Ju takes a hit and starts to talk "So here's the deal. The North and South gangs seem to grow even more restless. Especially the North, I got intel that they're teaming with the government." Mak quickly chimes In "What this sounds like to me Is war?" Ju nods and takes another hit before speaking "Correct! Now that the North Is backed by the government that puts the South In a tight spot. They're going to be looking for some help from outside sources." Chop speaks up "Do we have anything on the South?" Ju shakes his head and continues "We can only go off the North. I give the South 5 months before they try and take on the North. But even If they triple their members and upgrade their firepower they won't have enough to combat the North and the government." Mak laughs and cuts Ju off "So that's where we come In, huh?" Ju claps his hands and responds "Exactly! In 5 months I'll select 50 of our strongest members to take on this job." I quickly speak up "Only 50? There's bound to be even more ops than last time, and better equipped at that!" Ju laughs hysterically as he answers "That's where these 5 months come into play, well specifically 4 of those months will be used to train up some key members of Central." Chop laughs as Ju goes on "What we have Is quality, each member has joined Central for a reason. Some might seem petty while others joined for a good reason. At the end of the day, we kill for what we believe In. We kill to push our agenda, and never look back. The enemy Is doing the exact same thing." At that moment we all locked eyes, I could feel that this mission could change the course of the city maybe even In our favor. It all came down to how we used these 4 months. Chop begins to talk "So, this could be our last job. What's the catch?" Ju takes a hit and says "Good question. The catch Is… We could die and Central gang loses while the South slowly falls and the North takes over with the aid of the government. And at that point the city we love falls." I look down and close my eyes. Images of my mother, my two brothers, my big sis, the twins, all the members of Central, even shop keep X. These are the memories that I want to remember and protect. As I open my eyes and look up, Ju stands and walks over to me and pats me on the head, and speaks "To make sure that we have the best chance we need K here to become the ultimate shooter." I cut him off before he could go on "What do you mean? There's no way I could! There are so many others that are stronger than me." Ju takes another hit, the room falls silent. Chop nor Mak say a word. Ju releases the smoke and says "See how no one agreed. They believe In me, and I believe In you. So by extension, they also believe In you. The 3 of us here will help you go beyond your limits. You'll succeed, where we have failed. You will become the master of all guns!" The doubt that I once had was overtaken by the acknowledgment of someone that I looked up to. I could feel a desire that I never felt before, prosper. I go to stand, Ju passes me the blunt. I hit It. As I let the smoke fill my lungs I release and speak "I joined Central for my sisters, to be able to provide for them. To give them a future that was taken from them. As I slowly lived for them, I realized what it meant to live for myself. To truly protect what you love, you must be willing to do everything and anything. I want to protect the memories of others so new ones can be made. Even If what we do Is deemed wrong, we know in our hearts what we're fighting for and that's all that matters!" Mak and Chop both stand, as we look each other In the eyes I can tell that there fighting for the same thing, they always have been. I smile and pass the blunt back to Ju, as he takes It he says "Good, now that we're on the same page I think It's time to get started!
For the next 4 months Ju, Chop, and Mak helpt with my training. Every day from sunrise to sunset. I had one job, becoming the ultimate shooter. I learned everything about guns from their mechanisms, to obscure facts. Chop helped me with my aiming and overall gun sense. Mak made me comfortable with any and all guns, along with cool shooting tricks and skills. Ju helped train my body and mind, putting everything that I've been taught together. As the months passed, I slowly become what they said. Master of all guns. At the end of the four months Ju, Chop, and Mak stand in front of me almost bursting into tears as If they were a proud father seeing their son's accomplishments. We had to win this, not just for us but for the people of the city! Halfway through the fifth month, Ju called us In for a meeting at his office. Chop and I was the first to show up followed by Dee, Kate, and Mak. We had a few minutes of downtime before Ju stood up from his desk. As he slowly walked to the center, the rest of us got quiet. He sparks a blunt, takes a hit, and slowly breathes out the smoke. Ju speaks "For the past 4 and a half months we've been training our bodies and mind. Sharpening our gun skills, and refining our purpose." He takes another hit and continues "Now's the time to show our dedication to the city. But It won't be easy, I'll be lying If I say It was. A lot of our members will die maybe even one of us or all of us." He lets the smoke out and smiles before continuing "But It looks like you guys already know that. So I'll keep It short. The plan Is… To be the last gang standing." As Ju goes for another hit Kate speaks up "What the fuck kind of plan Is that? You damn near had 5 months to make one, and this Is the best you got!" Mak laughs, while Dee panics. Chop sits by, this Is my opportunity to step up. I stand and walk over to Ju, he passes me the blunt and goes back to his desk, and sits. I hit the blunt, and as I let the smoke fill my lungs I'm reminded of the first time I meet Ju. As I release the smoke I speak "Ju doesn't have a plan cause he knew that I'll have one! So before I go on any problems?" Dee speaks up "I mean, I fuck with you K but… uh… You are still just a kid, what can you really have planned that can be better than Ju?" I smile and laugh, I go to take a hit before answering him "What I bring Is change. All I ask Is that you hear me out and decided If you want to follow." Dee nods and sits up, Kate rolls her eyes but continues to listen. I go on "Cool. Let's just get to the point. We have very little information about the situation. What we do know Is that the North and the Government are working together. We can assume that the North has acquired more members and weapons. Along with the ability to move freely throughout the city. For the past 4 and a half months, we've heard nothing about the South's movements. So we can assume that they have been doing the same thing as us." Mak cuts me off "This gets us nowhere!" I take a hit and continue where I left off "With this, we can safely say the North Is waiting for a move from either us or the South. Now we can go In like a bunch of ignorant monkeys and die or we can instigate and have the fight start on our terms. We can slowly hit key facilities tied to the North and make It seem like the South hit them." Kate chimes In "So far not bad, but why hit the North when the South Is easier?" I hit the blunt and reply "Good question Kate. If we hit the South, It's obvious that It's us. While we fight the South the North can just slide In and kill both sides. But If we hit the North, maybe the South will be more inclined to attack as well. And with that, It's a 2v1." Chop cuts In "Not bad. But what's the end goal?" I smile and answer "The goal Is to have the South make a full-on attack on the North's main government building. We'll hit random sites throughout the week and make a path for them. At that point, they should get the picture. While the North Is busy fighting the South, we can send some of our members to clean up the rest of the key facilities while our main squad pulls up and third parties." The room Is silent, I'm a lil nervous. Ju speaks up "What happens If the South doesn't take the bait?" I pause for a second before replying "We'll I thought about that. If the South doesn't take the bait we have to send the majority of our members alongside our main force to apply pressure to the North and hopefully, at that point, the South tries to make a move. If they don't we have a very slim chance of winning, almost zero at that point." I take a hit, the room stays silent for a bit… Mak sighs before speaking "Well not like Ju's plan Is better. I guess this works. Count me In K." I nod, walk over to Dee, and pass him the blunt. As he takes a hit he closes his eyes and thinks. A few minutes pass before he opens his eyes and says "Well, It's not a bad plan. For a potential final mission, I like It. Count me In too!" I look over at Chop, and with zero hesitation he speaks "I would have said yes to anything. You have my full support K!" Dee passes me the blunt, I take It and walk over to Kate. I take one more hit before passing It to her, she grabs It and takes a fat hit before saying "Shitty plan number 1 or shitty plan number 2?" She looks me In my eyes, as I look back I could tell she didn't want to lose. I speak up "Well shitty plan number 2 might let me see your soft side again…" Kate couldn't help but blush, at that moment Mak quickly stood up and said "AINT NO WAY! THAT'S YOU K?!" Kate swiftly replied "NO! NO! NO!" Dee and Chop couldn't help but laugh, Kate looks back at me and gives me an answer "Well, whatever. I guess you can count me In K." She passes me the blunt, as I slowly walk up to the front of Ju's desk I take my final hit before passing It back to Ju. As I do I say "What do you think? You In Ju?" Ju grabs the blunt and hits It until It becomes a roach, as he goes to put It out he answers "I started with nothing but a blunt and a gun. I still have both but now I have people to pass the blunt to and protect with the gun as well." I couldn't help but smile, I turn to the others and say "So everyone knows the plan, let's take one week to prepare and get the squads ready. After that, let's show everyone that Central gang Is here to stay!"
ONE WEEK LATER
As the days count down, the excitement grows. The urge to fight and to kill grows stronger. Not only In myself but the other members as well. The main room of the crib Is filled with weapons of mass destruction, bags filled to the top with ammo, and explosives. Every member suited up, ready to give their life not only for each other but for the future of the city. Ju and I walk around the main room splitting up the members into groups of 50 each with a selected leader. Chop, Mak, Dee, and Kate each have their squad of 50. They all have very specific and important jobs. Chop's squad Is reconnaissance, there are the eyes for the rest of the squads. Mak Is the first assault squad, his team Is the main push while Dee's Is the second assault squad. His job Is to sweep and clear what's left and to provide cover for Mak. And lastly, Kate's squad is where the heavy hitters are. Their main goal Is to cause controlled chaos, for that 1 week of prep time they went out and planted explosives In key areas around Northside territory. Their squad will be split into roughly 12 people and then be attached to the 3 squads will the remaining member's help where need be. That leaves Ju and Me, we'll help where we're needed. The day before we head out Ju calls me to his office. After I finish helping the other members prepare I make my way over to his door and knock, as I enter smoke escapes. I quickly shut the door behind me and make my way over to his desk. Ju leans back In his chair and kicks his feet up on the desk while hitting a wood. As he takes a hit he passes it over to me and starts to talk "You ready?" As I grab the blunt I reply "A lil nervous but nothing I haven't trained for." Ju smiles and continues "Good. Well, I can finish the last-minute details, go and see your sisters." I cut him off "Nah, I got to see this through. I can't just leave." Ju laughs at my response and says "Aye, It's ok. Go. Take this time and remember what brought you to this point. Cause It wasn't me, Chop, or Kate. It wasn't a single member here. It was the ones waiting for you at home." I hit the wood a few times, as I cough I pass It back. Ju speaks up "Gas, right? This Is from my personal stash. Now, just make sure you are back before sunrise." I smile and reply "Thanks, Ju. For everything." Ju nods and says "Don't thank me just yet, we still got a job to do!" We laugh, as I get to the doors and open them Ju quickly shoots his gun and hits the stereo system on the other side of the main room. Music starts to play loudly and the members start to turn up, I turn around to look back at Ju as he takes another hit he says "Leave the doors open." I nod and continue to the front. Before I leave I let the lady at the front know I'm heading out and I'll be back before sunrise. She nods and says "We'll be up and ready!" As she blows me a kiss I head outside.
I make my way south of Central gangs territory. Enjoying the nightlife along the way, I stopped by a few stores to pick some things up for my sisters. I also grabbed some watermelon cookies with white chocolate chips. To my surprise there taste better than they sound. As I got closer to where they stayed less and less noise can be heard. The South gang Is usually pretty restless, I speed up to where my sisters and the other kids should be at… Gone. Nothing stands… Not a single shack, no bodies. The smell of gunpowder and fire fills my lungs. I drop the toys and food I had bought and walked to the shack I once called home. Gone… Just the outlines of the walls, the few pieces of furniture that we had. And the outlines of my 3 sisters peacefully sleeping next to one another. It starts to rain. It picks up slowly washing the smell and evidence away. I look up at the sky and close my eyes, I felt every emotion In just a few seconds. I truly didn't know what to feel anymore. I fall to my knees and look down, opening my eyes only to see the debris of my sisters wash away. I feel tears run down my face but sadness didn't enter my heart or mind, as I looked around at the other shacks everyone suffered the same fate. Anger, sadness, vengeance, loneliness, despair all these emotions have left my body. As I sit there In the rain, all the memories from the past come flooding into my mind. From the times with my mother and brothers. From the time my 2 lil sisters were born. All the good times along with the bad ones repeat themselves, over and over and over. I stand and walk over to the bags and pull out the cookies, as I walk back I notice a body off to the side. A government member, clearly dead sits. I approach the body and check for anything Important. I found an official government phone and his wallet I open It and take his cash, but a picture falls out. As I pick It up and look at It, It's a picture of him, his wife, and 2 kids all smiling. I think back to the questions Ju asked me when I first joined "If someone you loved died because of your actions what would you do?" After that, I thought about what he said to one of the South gang leaders "As one who has sinned by the gun, death by the gun Is his atonement." As I go to stand one last thought crosses my mind, the first time I meet Ju "It's not bad that you want to provide for the lesser but you have to keep in mind that others are trying to do the same thing by any means necessary." I walk over to my shack and lay down In the rain next to where my sisters would sleep, I become stuck In my own thoughts "This Is what Ju warned me about, this Is what he was preparing me for. This very moment. There are so many paths I can take, but there's only one that will allow me to continue moving forward. I have to choose right here." I take one of the cookies out and take a bite, even though they were soggy and dirty. They were still bussin. As I ate the rest I sat up and walked around trying to find any remains of anyone, but no one survived. I made graves for all the kids, I placed a toy for each of them. Hoping that It will reach them. I look out towards the city, the lights can barely be seen through the rain. Faint sounds of gunfire and violence can be heard over the rain pelting the surrounding buildings. I take a deep breath and smile, I say these words aloud "I'm happy that you guys died! Now I have zero attachments, and zero worries. The only thing I have to do Is look forward and fight for people I've lost. I'm thankful for the memories that we made, these will help me fight so others have the same chance to experience memories as well." At that point, my body felt free. As the rain continued to fall and hit my body I felt peaceful and at the same time, I gave zero fucks about who was going to die. People with families, people providing for their families, weak or strong individuals, even kids. At this point, I truly didn't care. As I finish the last of the cookies, I look back at the graves and hope that I can live long enough to come back. I start the long walk In the rain back to the crib. Not a single thought crossed my mind, my head was empty. Void of thoughts and emotions. While I walk I look around at the people rushing to get inside, people getting robbed and killed. I continue to move forward, I'm a few steps away from the crib. But before I could open the door, It opens. It's Ju. He takes one look at me and passes me a blunt. I take It and hit It. We stand underneath an overhang and listen to the rainfall. Minutes turn into hours, the rain finally slows down. As we finish the blunt Ju finally speaks "Get some sleep. In the morning we'll see your resolve." I nod, and we enter the crib. The lady at the front desk Is sleeping. We enter the main room, the music has died down and most of the members have fallen asleep while some are still drinking and smoking. Before I make my way towards my cot Ju pats me on the head and says "Whatever choice you make, we'll stand by your side. That's what family Is for." He gives off warm smile and walks toward his office. I make my way to my cot and lay down, staring at the ceiling until It's time for the mission.
1 hour left before we start our plan. We start to split into our teams and gather our supplies. Chop takes his 50 members and starts to head out to get In position. After about 30 minutes I get a call from Chop saying there In position. I signal Kate to get her 4 groups In order along with Dee's group to get ready to move too. As Dee finishes up he walks over to the center of the main room and starts to talk "Aye K?" I respond "Yo…" Dee goes on " I just want to say… That… umm… No matter what I'm ready for any order you give!" I couldn't help but smile a bit before answering "Thanks, Dee." He smiles back and continues to lead his group. I took a second to think as well, I walk over to Mak, and before I could even say anything he speaks "Yeah, yeah. Stay sharp, and listen to the orders and all that other bull shit." I laughed at his response and say "Damn I'm not Ju. No need to be so serious!" He couldn't help but laugh as well. As we continue to talk to one another, the pressure I once felt was slowly fading and was replaced with confidence. After I finished talking to Mak I tell him to wait out back for one of Kate's groups. He gathers his members and heads outside. I look around for Kate and to my surprise, I can't find her. I head over to Ju's office to see If she Is there and she's not. Ju told me to check the weapons room. As I climbed the stairs, I heard the door open and close. I approached the door and opened It, there she was. She was collecting some last-minute ammo and explosives. I quickly spoke up "You almost ready? We got a few more minutes to prepare." Silence, she just continues to pick stuff up and place It In bags. I talk once more "I know we've gone over the plan, but I was thinking about going over It one more time before Mak and you leave." Still nothing. I couldn't help but laugh, I thought back to the day we had off. Most people would write that day off and forget about It. But to me, that was one of the few days I cherish. I speak up one more time "Kate… I…" My words got caught on my tongue, but she turns around and looks me In the eyes. The same dark blue eyes from that day, her hair grown a few inches since then as well. This time I speak from the heart "Kate after we get this job done I want to take you out!" Kate just stands there for a few seconds, then busts out laughing. But this time It felt different I couldn't help but laugh a lil either. After a few more seconds she calmed down and walked forward until she was just a few inches away, she looked me up and down before saying "Kevin, I'm a lil too old for you. But I'll make you a deal, If we finish this job I'll wait. Also If you happen to let's say become Central gang leader you don't have to wait as long." She leans In and gives me a kiss, I take my chance and grab her by the waist. After a few seconds, we pull apart, as she goes to grab her bags she continues to talk "Didn't think you'll catch on. Well then don't disappoint me, Kevin!" As she leaves the room I stand there and think "Is that all It took? And yo, how old Is she?" As I continue to wonder I can hear Ju walking up the stairs to enter the room. As he enters he says "So, you got everything together?" I nod and ask him a question "How old Is Kate?" Ju can't help but laugh before answering my question "Well I don't know her exact age but I can say she's either 1 to 2 YeaRs older than me or younger than me." I swiftly respond "How old are you?" Ju can't help but laugh some more "I feel like If I tell you I'll ruin the surprise." I roll my eyes and say "Whatever, you don't seem old so she can't be either. Anyway, Mak and group 12a and half of Dee's team should have headed out to their location to start." Ju nods and continues off of me "While they do that Chop and his 50 members should have surveillance on all key points on the North side. That will allow the second half of Dee's team to push with the help of 12b and 12c. All while 12k and Kate start the party with a boom!" I couldn't help but smile, In just a few minutes all hell will break loose. All we need now Is for the South to take the bait. At that point the government phone I found started to go off, I answered "Hello?" The person on the other side started to go off asking where I've been at, I answer "I got caught up with the uhh… Mission." The guy on the other end started to calm down and said there's been a change of plans. I quickly put the phone on speaker and tell Ju to be quiet. "Well, there's been a change of plans RG. Looks like the South has given In and decided to merge with us. Where to go and finalize the deal, If you are still In the area go to the address and start the process well be there eventually." I quickly respond "Got you, Cap!" Ju can't help but laugh a lil, The guy on the phone responds "Well good. Nice to see I still get respect around here. Get to work RG. Good Luck, these people are savages!" He hangs up, at that moment Ju and I grew the most devious smiles known to man. Ju starts to talk "Looks like we found a way to make the bait a guarantee." I nod and respond "Great observation Ju! Now it's time to show them who the real savages are!" Ju and I gather all the remaining ammo and weapons and load them up In an old flatbed outback. It was old and had a shit ton of bullet holes but somehow always got the job done. As Ju got In the driver's seat and started the truck he said "I stole this truck from the south on my first job, killed my first leader, and In the same night drove to the North side and killed a whole squad. Know what I didn't after that?" I shake my head, Ju revs the engine and says "I sparked a blunt, went to sleep, woke up sparked another blunt, and did the same thing again." I wasn't sure If I should be scared or hype but at least he's on our side. Ju "Spark that shit!" I reply "Say less!" As I spark the blunt Ju takes off to the address we got sent. I take the time to check up on Chop, everything Is going according to plan on his side. I call Kate, all the explosives are In place. I call Dee and Mak, and both of them are In place to start the assault. All that's left Is for me a Ju to start the true chaos. Before we get to the address I tell Ju to make a quick stop. We're about 5 minutes away. We stop and get out of the truck, we walk for a few minutes before turning a corner. The graves I made In the morning are still there along with toys. But most importantly the dead government guy was still there. Ju starts to talk "I see you, this Is where you got the phone from. Good thinking, go In with a disguise and start the chaos from the inside then BOOM!" I nod and reply "Correct that should tip off the South, then when the rest of the government officials show up we can really start the fun." As I strip the dead body of his gear and weapons, I notice Ju take the time to pray at the graves. As I finish I walk over to his side and pray with him. Ju takes a deep breath and says "I feel your pain, but at the same time I can't. All I can do is help you down your path. Like I said whatever you choose I'll stand by you no matter what K." I didn't say a word but yet I feel like I said a million. I swap into the government gear and pick up his weapon. It felt well crafted and light but durable. Ju laughs a lil and says "You don't look half bad." I smack my lips and reply "Bruh… Hop In the back." Ju laughs some more "Don't crash the whip!" As he gets into the back I turn the truck on and head towards the address. As we get closer a bunch of buildings come into view. Warehouses and factories. I start to slow down, looking for the address. I eventually find the spot, as I approach a warehouse that sits in the back next to the sea I'm stopped by some South gang members. One of them speak up "The fuck you doing here?" I hold back my temper and reply "I here to finalize the deal so that the government can merge with the south." The 2 guards look at my truck and then back at me and say "I thought the government had more money than this." Before he could continue I cut him off "Well can't drive around In a nice whip with a bunch of savages like yall around now can I!" The guard quickly raised his gun at me, I didn't flinch. A few seconds pass and the second guard speaks up "Alright, let em threw!" The other guard starts to talk again "At least you're not a bitch!" I laugh, and as I drive away I say "Well see who the bitch Is!" They lead me to a place to park my truck. As I step out, they start to check out my truck. I have to think of something quick or they find Ju. "Aye, government property. I don't care If we're still enemies, I die or don't report back In, end of the deal." They back off In disappointment, I sigh In relief. A few more South members approach me. One of them looked like the main leader he starts to talk "You must be one to finalize the deal?" I answer "Yes! I'm here to start the process before my Captain arrives." He nods and continues "Sounds good you can call me Juki, I'm the leader of the South gang. Follow me and we can start." As he turns, I take one last look at the truck. I got 10 minutes to do what I need to do before Ju follows. We walk inside the warehouse. I take a look around, conveyer belts caring blocks of what seems like metal down a line. Then they enter a big furnace-like structure and on the other side there poured into molds. After that, there pushed to a collection point where It seems like some type of tempering process happens. Juki starts to talk "It's so nice that we struck a deal. We run the largest gun factory on the continent. We sell to everyone. The Yin, Nara, Silva, Leon you name It! We take pride In our work. Without war, crime, and other so-called evil acts we would go out of business." I couldn't help but feel disappointed, but I still find a way to answer "What exactly are hoping comes out of this deal? More buyers, money, power?" Juki laughs and turns around "Those are too simple. I don't expect a low-ranking government lackey to understand, so I'll spell It out for you. Status!" I roll my eyes and reply "Isn't that the same as power?" Juki shakes his head and answers "No, no, no. You got It wrong, look at It like this. What's your last name?" Before I could even answer he answers for me "Nothing right. You were probably born In this cursed city and lived your life In fear. At any point, one of the gangs can come and kill your whole family without reason. You live your day-to-day life watching others being taken advantage of kidnapped and sold. Murdered In broad day. And who saves the day?" I stand In silence, Juki continues "The government right? WRONG! They let us get away with this cause they profit from It not only from a monetary standpoint but from a mental standpoint as well. Let's say the government somehow stops the gang war. Not only do they look good in the public eye, but now they control everything that the gangs once did. North had transportation, the South has production. The government can now profit from war through weapons of mass destruction and move them across the country swiftly and for free." At this point, none of this surprises me, but the one thing that stands out Is the real purpose of the government starting to make deals with North and South. There has to be a greater reason. I decide to speak up "So If you were to obtain this, how would you gain status? Doesn't the government already watch over the city?" Juki claps his hands and speaks "Now there's a good question. You are correct, the government does watch over the city. But with this deal, we'll be able to have more control and have the resources to branch off and become our own city or better yet country. I'll pay homage to where I started, Juki Smoke. Got a nice ring to It huh?" I can't help but sigh, Ju seems like the only one In this city with a brain. I reply "Pretty corny If you ask me." Juki scoffs at my remark but just before he could answer I continue "Well, what your asking for Isn't too outrageous. But do you honestly think the government would fund you to start your own country? And on top of that let you live peacefully like you guys ain't murder thousands, rob thousands, sell thousands. Do you really think they finna let that slide? Be honest with yourself." I start to walk around, I head over to where the molds are being cooled. I touch It, It's the same as the weapon on my hip. Same weight and everything, the only difference was quality. I toss It back and talk some more "Let's say the government found a way to make what you guys do, but better. Then what? There's no need for yall, just the factory right?" Juki starts to get impatient, he says "Is that a threat? Cause If It Is, we're more than ready to move." I smile and pull out my phone. I look at the time. Exactly 10 minutes have passed. I put the phone back In my pocket. I start to count how many members are In the room. Juki frustrated starts to yell "SO WHAT IS IT! DEAL OR NO DEAL!" I walk up to Juki and look him In his eyes, all I see Is fear. Someone who realized that he Is nothing but a pawn to this world, nothing more than trash. "For a low-ranking government lackey, you sure seem to be scared." I start to laugh, I go to turn around. I take a few steps before Juki spoke up "So the deals off then. We'll then seems like you should go. Let me show you out." Juki raises his arms, and the 107 members I counted raised their weapons and pointed them at me. I stand there laughing, menacingly. Just before Juki could give his command the front door opens. Ju walks In "Damn It's been a minute since I've been In this bitch. What's the deal Juki!" Juki rolls his eyes and says "Not only Is the government here but now this piece of shit Is here. Leave Ju, there are bigger matters at hand than simple violence." Ju can't help but laugh, he continues to walk forward until were side by side. Ju sparks a blunt and hits It a few times before answering "Well, I'm here for let's say expert violence. If that's a thing." Juki laughs a lil "So what do you want?" Ju hits the blunt and says "Do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed for I am your god. I have strengthened you and helped you. I will uphold you with my righteous Glock." As he goes to hit the blunt again, a gun goes off. The 107 South members quickly turn there heads to try a figure out who shot. To there surprise no one shot from there side, but as soon as they look at Juki he falls to his knees. His head completely gone, spewing blood from his neck. Ju can't help but laugh, he finishes hitting the blunt as says "Well then how many are there K." I answer "107 total. Want me to handle It?" Ju shakes his head and hits the blunt, as he lets the smoke out he puts his hand on my shoulder and says "Let me flex a lil. Tonight I'll show you what It means to be the leader of Central gang." I nod, this Is the first time I saw Ju's power and It was just a piece of It too. He reached for his left cargo pocket and pulled out a Glock 20 with a round drum that holds 50 rounds. He hits the blunt until It's a roach. He flicks It to the side, the room Is still, silent. The roach hit the floor and all hell let loose. All 107 members let It rip, but Ju didn't move. Neither did I, not a single bullet hit us let alone got close to us. After the noise died down I take a look around. All 107 members dead, I turn to Ju who's about to spark another blunt and say "How the fuck did you do that? There's no way! Is that your Materia?" Ju hits the blunt and shakes his head before saying "Nah, they all had AR's so I just guessed that they'll have the standard bullet capacity of 30. At that point I aimed for the most accurate bullets and deflected them at the others to ricochet off of one another to kill all 107. I used 20 rounds, could have gotten by with 15. But I didn't want to cut It too close." A part of me couldn't believe what he just said, but at the same time why would he lie. I shake my head a laugh before speaking "You say I can pass you up, and become the first Gun Master but you go and pull this out. How am I supposed to compete?" Ju smiles and pats me on the head and says "It took me YeaRs to learn the ins and outs of every weapon. You did It In just a few months, at this point you should be able to do everything that I can do!" As I stand there the government phone goes off, I quickly answer It and put It on speaker phone. "Report, RG!" I swiftly think of a reply "We started the process to finalize the deal, but they decided to advance there own goals. So we had a small disagreement." The Captain sounds puzzled but most of all surprised "A small disagreement? Don't tell me they chose to fight? And you won?" If I don't answer this right our cover can be blown, I have to think of something quickly. But In the nick of time Ju started to shoot his gun and said "COME ON GOVERNMENT LACKEY! SHOW YOURSELF!" I pick up where he left off "There's still a few more South members! I could use some backup!" The Captain replies "Were 5 minutes out. Hold on till then RG!" He hangs up. As I put the phone away Ju speaks up "Aye, I got an idea. How about you kill me when they arrive, then get some more details from them. After that, BAM! We kill them." I roll my eyes. But as I think about it, It's not too bad of a plan. I reply "Sounds good. But who will do the killing?" Ju raises his hand and smiles, I nod and we wait. After about 5 minutes we hear a few vehicles pull up outside, followed but gun fire and explosions. As we wait, we get into position. The gunfire slowly quiets down, and then the doors to the warehouse open. 50 government members enter, as they do I take the final shot and kill Ju. I go to turn around and what sounds like the Captain greets me "Well down RG! You might have a promotion waiting for you at HQ." But as he got closer he started to get suspicious. Just before I could say anything he quickly yells "We have a fake! Quickly call and tell HQ! NOW!" A few from the back left the warehouse, but just as they were leaving the rest of the members readied there guns. The Captain slowly approached me and said "So how long have you been a fake? Since this morning?" I laugh, and start to walk forward while talking "It doesn't even matter. You sent those bozos to warn the others, but that only guaranteed there death!" The Captain starts to yell "STOP MOVING OR WE'LL SHOOT!" I stop, and look the Captain In his eyes. As I go to take another step I say "Go ahead, I'm right here." At that point he Captain and the remaining members fire. Without any hesitation Ju stood up and deflected every shot. But this time he didn't kill anyone, He walked until he was by my side and said "Yall had better aim at least." The government members start to frantically reload and ready up to shoot again. As soon as they were ready Ju beat them too It. All of there bodies fall to the ground except the Captain's. As the Captain looks behind him, he clenches his fist and says "You don't seem like South members. There to stuipd to do something like this. And the North Is under our control. So who are you?" I walk forward until were face to face and say "Central gang. Were the heart of the city." I take out my desert eagle, point It at his head, and pull the trigger. As he falls to knees, a rush went through my body. A mix of excitement and satisfaction filled me. I couldn't help but smile. Ju slaps me on the back and starts to talk "So… What about the few that escaped?" I reply "They'll warn the North and other government members. What we need to do now Is somehow get the South to attack." Both of us start to look around the warehouse for a way to contact the rest of the members. Ju found Juki's office and called me over. As we check the room out we find a landline. Ju picks It up, someone answers. "Master Juki, have you finished the deal?" Ju replies "Yeah. No deal. Maybe next time you should think about your plan a lil bit more. And also the government will invade shortly. Good luck!" Just as Ju goes to hang up the phone, we can hear the screams of frustration from the South members. I quickly tell Ju to call Chop to see If the South started to move out. Chop confirms that they are moving In on the North. After that I call Mak and tell him to start the main push on the North. Ju and I start to make our way to the truck. As we get Inside Ju speaks up "Where to next?" I stop to think, we can either push behind Dee or we can clear building next to explosive squads. Ju starts to pull out and i finally give him an answer "We should find a way to push the North's HQ. I feel like the South will rush and we can use the chaos to help put a dent on there North's forces." Ju replies "Say less!" He starts to make his way back to the North side. For a old truck it sure was bommin. Ju starts to talk "We should be In North territory In 5 minutes. Hop In the back, I got a surprise back there." As he gives me a thumbs up, I roll down the window and hop In the back. I start to move a bunch of guns and ammo around until I find It. A FN Minimi, or SAW for short. It has a tripod along with a vertical foregrip. Ju opens the back cab window and starts to talk "We got 3 extra barrels, and a total of 1000 rounds. MAKE EM COUNT!" I give him a thumbs up. I start to hear gunfire and explosions In the distance. They start to grow louder and louder. I load up the 1000 round belt, and grab the extra barrels. As I go into a good supported crouch Ju starts yell at me "WHEN I HONK, LET IT RAIN!" I take a dep breath and steady my aim, Ju hit a hard right.