The sun hung low over Tokyo High, casting long shadows across the streets and rooftops. James Lee moved with deliberate precision, flanked by Yamagishi, Kazutora, and Hiroto, each trained, loyal, and alert. The city itself was alive with tension, and every movement, every whispered rumor, and every potential ally or opponent flowed into the system within his mind. Today's goal was clear: expand Valhalla's ranks and influence faster than ever, recruiting main cast members outside Toman and solidifying control over school and street networks.
He first approached Atsushi, Takuya, and Makoto near the gym, subtly showcasing Valhalla's abilities. In a fluid demonstration, Yamagishi and Hiroto neutralized a small group of delinquents with perfectly timed maneuvers, drawing immediate attention from the trio. James Lee's calm, commanding voice cut through the murmurs. "Talent alone isn't enough. Leadership, coordination, awareness—these define true strength. Join Valhalla. Together, we'll become something greater than mere factions or fights."
Makoto, cautious but curious, stepped forward. "If what you say is true, prove it."
James Lee nodded slightly, a faint smirk crossing his lips. Without hesitation, he activated a multi-level dungeon above the school—the Rooftop Gauntlet. The simulation tested combat skill, team coordination, and tactical decision-making against progressively stronger opponents, as well as environmental hazards designed to force adaptability. Each stage challenged individual skill and collective teamwork. Every successful maneuver, every carefully executed counter, every strategic command amplified the recruits' growth and loyalty. By the end, Atsushi, Takuya, and Makoto had fully integrated into Valhalla, their skills honed, perks unlocked, and loyalty cemented.
With his team now expanded, James Lee moved into the streets. Small gangs and independent fighters became both combat and recruitment opportunities. Every encounter was calculated: he displayed superior tactics, exploiting weaknesses while teaching recruits to do the same. Perks like Quick Reflexes, Eagle Eye, Tactical Vision, and Aura of Authority allowed him to anticipate enemy moves, neutralize threats, and subtly manipulate outcomes. Each victory not only strengthened the gang's physical power but amplified its reputation. Whispers of Valhalla's precision, strategy, and coordinated dominance spread through school corridors and alleyways alike.
Throughout it all, James Lee kept careful tabs on Takemichi and his friends. Loyal to Toman, Takemichi remained outside his reach but offered invaluable insight. Every movement, every social interaction, every strategic choice became data James Lee could analyze. Observation Mastery allowed him to predict conflicts and identify opportunities, while Influence Mapping highlighted potential allies or threats long before they acted. He never interfered directly, instead using the information to advance Valhalla's position, ensuring the gang expanded without disrupting Toman's timeline.
As the sun fully set, James Lee paused on a rooftop overlooking the city. Valhalla had transformed from a fledgling gang into a powerful, organized network, rapidly growing through combat, recruitment, and strategic influence. Each fight, each dungeon, each successful recruit, and each unlocked perk contributed to exponential growth. Combat honed strength and agility; dungeons trained awareness, coordination, and leadership; and the careful application of perks and cards ensured tactical superiority in every encounter.
James Lee looked at his recruits, now a capable, loyal, and well-trained team, and then at the city streets beneath him. Every battle won, every recruit gained, every strategic move taken, brought them closer to dominance. Valhalla was no longer a name—it was a force, growing faster, stronger, and more unyielding with each passing moment. He let a faint, confident smile cross his face. Every step, every challenge, every perk, every card, every recruit was part of a single, unstoppable trajectory. Valhalla would not just rise; it would rule.