Chapter 11 — Playing the Big Game
The Afterlife's back room wasn't built for comfort — it was built for deals.
Dim light, old-school decor, and enough weapons stashed around to arm a small warzone.
Dex sat at the head of the table, a broad smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.
Jackie lounged beside me, casual — but his hand rested near his piece.
I slid into my seat, calm, measured.
Dex leaned forward, folding thick fingers together.
"Gentlemen… and player," he added with a look at me, grin widening.
I gave him a nod, half a smirk.
"Dex."
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[System Notice: Dexter DeShawn — Trust: +10 — Respect: Gaining]
[Jackie Welles — Loyalty: +5 — Sees You as Partner]
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Dex started laying out the job — the Konpeki break-in, the logistics, the payout.
My HUD lit with a silent flow of data:
[T-Bug — Remote Access Handling]
[Yorinobu Arasaka — High-Risk Target]
[Evelyn Parker — Acting as Inside Contact]
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While Dex talked, the System dropped analysis in soft pulses.
[Dex's Confidence in Alaric — Strong, Watching for Loyalty]
[Jackie's Focus — On Dex, Split Attention: 30% on You]
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I spoke only when needed — sharp, precise.
Pointed questions. Clear answers.
Dex grunted approval after each.
"See, Jackie? Told you the man's got a brain to back that silver tongue."
Jackie gave me a sideways grin.
"Yeah, yeah… let's just hope his balls ain't too big for the job."
I smirked.
"We'll find out soon enough."
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[System Notice: Team Dynamic Stable — Leadership Edge Tilted Toward You]
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Dex leaned back at the end.
"Alright. Clock's ticking. Don't get dead."
I stood, giving him a solid nod.
"Don't plan on it."
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As I turned to leave, Dex's voice rumbled behind me.
"Alaric… play this right… you might just carve your name into this city's bones."
I glanced back, smirk curving.
"That's the plan."
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[Main Job Set: The Heist — Ready to Execute]
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Romance Targets After Chapter 11 Recap:
Evelyn Parker — Interest: +115 — Stage 3: Heated Flirtation & Touch Barrier Broken
Judy Alvarez — Interest: +45 — Stage 2: Guarded but Intrigued