Gia, ever the diligent assistant, piped up. "I'll arrange for transportation to the hotel whenever you're ready, Zumi. And I'll make sure the Gale Brothers are prepared for your arrival."
Zumi reached out, giving Gia's hand a grateful squeeze. "Thank you, Little Hawk. I don't know what I'd do without you."
As the morning progressed and the others began to join them, Zumi's thoughts turned to the message he had received from Kathy the night before. The prospect of having the Yamato siblings serve as the house's personal bodyguards filled him with a sense of comfort and security. Knowing that he could provide a safe haven for those he cared for.
Gia pulled up Zumis' car in front of the house, the engine humming softly as she parked. Zumi slid into the passenger seat, excitement bubbling in the air. Back at home, Bia, Ana, Aurora, and Kasumi stayed behind.
As Gia drove toward the hotel, she glanced over at Zumi, a mischievous grin on her face. "Get ready to see what the mafia can do in just one night. The Hotel is about to look completely different. With the Gale Brothers in charge, their connections are insane."
When they arrived, Zumi was taken aback. The hotel had transformed into something incredible overnight. It loomed large and majestic, a striking modern skyscraper with a sleek, reflective glass facade and a series of cylindrical towers that reached for the sky. Warm golden lights illuminated the building, casting a luxurious glow against the darkening sky.
Guests flowed in and out, their faces lit with smiles as if this transformation was the most natural thing in the world. At the top of the central tower, the letters "HC" stood proudly, accompanied by the word "KOGANE," signalling that this was now the domain of a new mafia family in town.
Surrounding the hotel was a serene body of water, perfectly mirroring the grandeur of the structure. Neatly lined trees and parked cars added to the urban charm, creating a scene that radiated sophistication and modernity. It was a breathtaking sight, a true standout in the city skyline, and Zumi couldn't help but feel a thrill at the power and mystery that enveloped them.
As Zumi and Gia stepped into the grand lobby of the Hyatt Centric Hotel, they were greeted by a sight of opulence and sophistication. The space had been completely transformed, with gleaming marble floors, plush velvet furnishings in rich shades of burgundy and gold, and dazzling crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow overhead.
The Gale Brothers emerged from a side room, their sharp suits and confident strides exuding an air of authority. They approached Zumi with wide grins, their eyes glinting with pride at the hotel's stunning metamorphosis.
"Zumi, welcome to the new Hyatt Centric Hotel," Sebastian said, his deep voice resonating through the lobby. "Or should I say, welcome to the heart of the Kogane empire."
Zumi couldn't help but return their smiles, his heart swelling with gratitude and admiration for their unwavering loyalty and efficiency. "Sebastian, Alex, you've outdone yourselves. This is beyond anything I could have imagined."
Alex chuckled, clapping Zumi on the back. "Anything for you, boss. We've made sure that every detail reflects the power and prestige of the Kogane name."
As they led Zumi and Gia on a tour of the hotel, the true extent of the Gale Brothers' work became evident. From the state-of-the-art security systems to the luxurious suites designed to cater to the most discerning guests, no expense had been spared in creating a fortress that would serve as the backbone of Zumi's growing empire.
Gia, her eyes sparkling with excitement, couldn't contain her enthusiasm. "This is incredible! The Hyatt Centric Hotel will be the talk of the town. No one will be able to ignore the rise of Zumi Kogane and the Kogane family."
Zumi nodded, his mind already racing with the possibilities that this new base of operations presented. With the hotel as a symbol of his power and influence, he knew that he could begin to make the necessary moves to unite the underworld under his banner.
As they reached the penthouse suite, reserved exclusively for Zumi's use, the Gale Brothers paused. Sebastian turned to Zumi, his expression serious. "Boss, there's something else you should know. Word of your ambitions has already begun to spread through the underworld. Some families are intrigued, while others are wary. We'll need to tread carefully and build alliances strategically."
Zumi's gaze hardened, a flicker of determination igniting in his eyes. "I expected as much. But we will face these challenges head-on. With the strength of our convictions and the loyalty of those who stand with us, we will forge a new era for the underworld."
Gia, ever the diligent assistant, chimed in. "I'll begin compiling dossiers on the key figures we should look out for."
"Good," Zumi said, excitement bubbling in his voice. "Now let's see this suite!"
As they stepped inside, Sebastian led the way, with Alex and Gia trailing closely behind. Zumi's jaw dropped in awe at the sight before him. The suite was nothing short of breathtaking.
Dark, elegant walls framed the space, adorned with intricate mouldings and shimmering golden accents that caught the light perfectly. But what truly stole the show was the massive aquarium that dominated one wall. It was alive with colour, showcasing a vibrant underwater world where schools of fish danced and a sleek shark glided gracefully among the coral.
The furnishings were equally impressive—plush, dark sofas invited relaxation, while a stylish coffee table added a touch of sophistication. The polished marble floor gleamed, reflecting the warm glow of ornate chandeliers that hung from the ceiling, casting a soft light throughout the room.
In that moment, Zumi felt enveloped in an atmosphere of grandeur and tranquillity, where modern luxury met the enchanting beauty of the ocean.
As Zumi stood in the middle of the opulent penthouse suite, he felt a sense of awe and accomplishment wash over him. The Gale Brothers had truly outdone themselves in creating a space that exuded both power and tranquillity, a perfect reflection of the Kogane family's rising influence.
Gia, her eyes wide with wonder, couldn't help but marvel at the stunning aquarium that dominated the room. "This is incredible," she breathed, her fingers tracing the cool glass as she watched the colourful fish dart and swirl within. "It's like having a piece of the ocean right here in the heart of the city."
Zumi nodded, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "And that's exactly what we want, Little Hawk. A sanctuary amidst the chaos, a place where we can gather our strength and plan our next moves."
Sebastian cleared his throat, drawing their attention back to the matters at hand. "Boss, we've also taken the liberty of setting up a secure communications room. From here, you'll be able to coordinate with your allies and keep tabs on any potential threats."
"Excellent work, Sebastian," Zumi said, his tone filled with genuine appreciation. "You and Alex have truly gone above and beyond in securing the hotel and creating a base worthy of the Kogane name."
Alex grinned, a glint of pride in his eyes. "We're just getting started, boss. With the Hyatt Centric Hotel as our foundation, there's no limit to what we can achieve."
As they continued to explore the suite, Zumi's mind raced with the possibilities that lay ahead. He knew that the path to uniting the underworld would be fraught with challenges and obstacles. Still, with the unwavering support of his loyal companions and the strategic alliances he would forge, he was confident that he could succeed.
Gia, ever attuned to Zumi's thoughts, spoke up. "Zumi, I've already begun compiling those dossiers on the key figures in the underworld. I'll have them ready for your review by tomorrow morning."
Zumi placed a hand on her shoulder, a gesture of gratitude and affection. "Thank you, Gia. Your dedication and resourcefulness never cease to amaze me."
As the sun began to set over the city skyline, casting a warm glow through the expansive windows of the penthouse, Zumi felt a renewed sense of purpose settle over him. The Hyatt Centric Hotel was more than just a building; it was a symbol of the change he would bring to the underworld, a beacon of hope for those who had been oppressed and exploited for far too long.
With the Gale Brothers by his side, Gia's brilliant mind at his disposal, and the love and support of his found family back at the mansion, Zumi knew that he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. He was Zumi Kogane, the Golden Warrior, and he would own up to that name when the time came.
Zumi dismissed the Gale brothers, saying he would stay in the room for a bit and asked them to continue looking after the hotel. "Yes, sir," they responded. Alex took his leave, and Sebastian handed Zumi and Gia a platinum card. He explained, "This card gives you access to every room in this building. Only you and Gia will possess it, establishing you both as the highest authority in this hotel."
As he spoke, Gia's card began to turn gold. "When you are present in the hotel, Gia's card will be gold. Gold cards are given to those who work under you, like my brother and me, as well as anyone else you acknowledge in the future. Gold cards can access all rooms except your suite; the only gold card that can access yours is Gia's, and it bears her name. Your card is the only platinum card, but if you leave the hotel and Gia is present, her card will turn platinum, as she will be in charge when you're not around."
Sebastian continued, "The cards have a few recognition systems to identify the owner. Just drop your blood on the card, and it will be bound to you; nobody else can use it." Zumi and Gia did as instructed, and once their blood fell on the card, it glowed slightly with a gold and platinum hue, and they could feel a connection with the plastic.
Sebastian added, "If the cards are ever stolen, the thief won't be able to use them, and you would know right away if someone other than you is touching them. That's all. I shall take my leave now." He then left the room.
Zumi looked to Gia, and said, " Go and get some books of every high school subject of the advanced level from grades eleven and twelve, and also buy two laptops, one for me and yourself and come back here with them. If you have a lot to carry, call on one of the Gale Brothers to help you carry it up. Also, text me their numbers."
Understood, Sir. She quickly pulled out her phone and texted Zumi the contact information of the brothers, then left the room to follow all the instructions Zumi had given her.
Zumi settled onto the couch in his new suite and dialled Kathy's number to check in on her. After three rings, she picked up, her voice brightening. "Hey, Master! What can I do for you?" she asked, a blush creeping across her cheeks.
"I just wanted to see how you're doing. How's everything going?" Zumi inquired.
Kathy smiled, her excitement evident. "I'm great! Hinata and I share a lot in common. We were just training in the backyard with her sister, Sakura."
"That's wonderful to hear! Are all the Yamato siblings together now?" Zumi asked.
"Yes, they're all here," she replied.
Suddenly, Zumi's tone shifted to something more serious, prompting Kathy to switch into a focused mode, knowing he was about to give her a direct order. "Tell Kaito that all siblings are to report to the Hyatt Centric Hotel tonight at four in the evening. This is an official order."
"Understood, Master!" Kathy responded promptly.
Zumi softened his tone as he added, "I miss you, Kathy. See you soon!" He hung up, leaving Kathy blushing and momentarily speechless on the other end of the line.
Zumi sat in silence for a while, reflecting on his life so far. After about fifteen minutes, Gia returned with Sebastian, who was carrying a box filled with books and the laptops he had asked her to buy. Sebastian set the box down beside Zumi and took his leave.
"Welcome back, Gia!" Zumi said, gesturing for her to sit next to him. Without hesitation, she complied. "Let's study together for a bit since you'll be coming to school with me."
Hearing this, Gia beamed with excitement. She hated being away from Zumi, so the thought of going to school with him made her incredibly happy. Just then, the system pinged: "You have fulfilled Gia's desire to go to school with you. Request value plus 2."
"I'll study hard!" Gia exclaimed, her enthusiasm infectious.
Zumi and Gia spent the next few hours poring over their schoolbooks, their heads bent close together as they reviewed various subjects. Gia was a quick study; her sharp mind easily grasped the concepts and committed them to memory. Zumi couldn't help but marvel at her dedication and intelligence, feeling grateful to have such a capable partner by his side.
As the afternoon wore on, they took a break to grab a quick lunch from the hotel's gourmet kitchen. Sitting at the sleek dining table, Zumi filled Gia in on his plans for the Yamato siblings.
"I've asked them to come to the hotel this evening," he explained between bites of a savoury sandwich. "I want to officially bring them into the fold, to have them serve as our personal bodyguards and allies."
Gia nodded, her eyes sparkling with approval. "That's a smart move, Zumi. The Yamato siblings are fiercely loyal and incredibly skilled. With them watching our backs, we'll be able to focus on our larger goals without worrying about our safety."
Zumi reached across the table, giving Gia's hand a gentle squeeze. "And with you by my side, I know we can take on anything. Your brilliance and unwavering support mean the world to me, Little Hawk."
Gia blushed, a pleased smile spreading across her face. "I'll always be here for you, Zumi. No matter what challenges we face, we'll face them together."
As the clock struck four, Zumi and Gia made their way down to the lobby to greet the Yamato siblings. The Gale brothers were already there, standing at attention with their signature air of authority.
The doors to the hotel swung open, and in walked the Yamato siblings, their strides purposeful and their expressions determined. Kathy led the way, her eyes immediately seeking out Zumi's. Kaito followed close behind, his broad shoulders and imposing stature commanding respect. Hinata and Sakura brought up the rear, their lithe forms belying the deadly skills they possessed.
Zumi stepped forward, his presence filling the room. "Welcome, my friends. I'm glad you could all make it."
Kathy bowed her head, a gesture of deference and loyalty. "Master, we are here to serve. Your word is our command."
Kaito nodded, his deep voice rumbling with conviction. "The Yamato family stands with the Kogane empire. Our strength is yours to wield."
Zumi felt a swell of pride and gratitude at their unwavering loyalty. He knew that with the Yamato siblings by his side, his vision of a united underworld was one step closer to becoming a reality.
"Come," he said, gesturing towards the elevators. "Let us discuss the future in a more private setting."
As they made their way up to the penthouse suite, Zumi couldn't help but feel excited about this new chapter of his life, but also a bit nervous.