Life isn’t so Simple Anymore!

Chapter 159: First Night Out as Heroes!
The city of Krey lay sprawled out before them, a sprawling metropolis of lights and shadows. The night was alive with the hum of distant traffic and the occasional blaring siren, a symphony of urban chaos. From their vantage point on a weathered rooftop, Boundless, Diablo, and Glutton gazed down upon one of the last remaining sources of darkness in the city – the notorious nightclub known as "Club Neon."


The rooftop was their vantage point, a place where they could watch over the place they planned to infiltrate and hit tonight. The chilly night air ruffled their costumes and whispered through the alleys below. Winter was coming in. It was late fall, and the weather was changing accordingly.


Glutton's costume was designed with a blend of practicality and symbolism, reflecting his commitment to justice and protection. The base of the outfit was a durable, form-fitting black material, providing both flexibility and protection from small arms.


Emblazoned across his chest was a stylized emblem representing justice. The emblem depicted a set of scales, perfectly balanced, symbolizing the fairness and equality that Glutton strived to uphold as a hero. The scales were surrounded by a golden halo, signifying the hope and inspiration he aimed to bring to those in need.


The emblem extended into a cape that cascaded down Glutton's back, flowing gracefully as he moved. The deep black color of the cape represented his unwavering determination and passion for defending the innocent, a seemingly stark contrast to the heroic ideals he planned to keep.


His arms were protected by reinforced gauntlets, bearing engraved patterns of interconnected links. The gauntlets were equipped with a retractable grappling hook, an essential tool for traversing the city's rooftops and accessing hard-to-reach places. Plus, they were really freaking cool. How could he be a hero without a grappling hook?


Glutton's lower body was covered by sturdy black pants with hidden pockets to store various gadgets and equipment. On the sides of his pants, there were subtle silver stripes, reminiscent of the sharp claws of a predator, reminding criminals that he was not to be underestimated.


Completing his ensemble were sturdy boots, designed to provide stability and support during combat. The soles of the boots were engraved with circular patterns, symbolizing the cyclical nature of justice, which Glutton believed would eventually catch up to the wrongdoers.


On his belt, Glutton carried a belt filled with miscellaneous goodies, a testament to Mr. Theo's financial support. He also had a high-tech communication device that allowed him to stay in constant contact with his team.


As Glutton stood on the rooftop, his costume accentuated his transformation from an overweight, bullied child to a young, determined hero. The symbols embedded in his attire were a constant reminder of his purpose and the responsibilities he had taken upon himself to protect the innocent and uphold justice.


Cindy Armani, or as she was now, Diablo, stood ready and eager on the rooftop, her heart pounding with a lust for fighting. Her costume was a striking blend of sleek design and functionality, tailored perfectly to support her in beating the hell out of criminals.


The bodysuit she wore was a deep, obsidian black, emphasizing her hidden nature and muscular frame. The material was both form-fitting and flexible, allowing her to move with precision and agility during her missions. Small, detailed patterns adorned the fabric, resembling faint, dancing flames, a testament to her unyielding determination as a hero.


Across her shoulders and down her arms, vibrant crimson accents surged like fiery trails, symbolizing the inferno of her unwavering spirit. They seemed to blaze with an intensity that matched the fire in her green eyes. The accents seemed to come alive as she moved.


A tactical belt, carefully fastened around her waist, held an array of gadgets and tools essential to her crime-fighting efforts. Each pouch and compartment was strategically placed for easy access, allowing her to respond swiftly to any situation. She only had one because Mr. Theo listed a lot of good points about having one. She couldn't solve all of her problems with her fists, a point that even Miss Devil agreed with.


Her dark, concealed mask protected her identity, its smooth surface giving no hint of the young girl beneath it. Only her round, bright green eyes peeked out from the mask, showing a mirror to the soul behind them. The mask not only shielded her identity but also added an air of mystery and intimidation to her presence. Diablo's hidden brutality and eagerness for combat showed in her eyes.


On her chest, an emblem commanded attention – a trident engulfed in blazing flames. This powerful symbol embodied her burning fighting spirit and was a reference to the person who inspired her down this path. It served as a warning to criminals, a reminder that Diablo was always ready to collect their sinful souls. Her boots were sleek and sturdy, providing both comfort and support during long hours of patrolling.


As the moon bathed the rooftop in a silvery glow, Cindy felt a sense of purpose wash over her. She was no longer just an ordinary girl; she was Diablo, a hero ready to pummel the hell out of evil and better herself as a fighter.


Zoey Winters felt a little bit embarrassed at this situation she found herself in. Standing on top of rooftops, looking down on bad guys while dressed in tights. Maybe she really was growing up. Instead of feeling excited about this situation, she only felt how embarrassing this was.


Her bodysuit shimmered like the starry expanse, with deep purples, blues, and pinks blending seamlessly, reminiscent of a sprawling nebula. The fabric itself looked like it held the secrets of distant galaxies, hinting at the wonders of the cosmos. As she moved, the colors shifted and swirled, just like the dance of planets in the vastness of space.


Boundless's suit was made of a highly durable and flexible material that provided excellent protection without compromising mobility. It was designed to withstand various forms of attacks. The suit's texture, soft to the touch, concealed its remarkable strength, making it appear like any other ordinary costume to the casual observer.


Across her suit, countless tiny galaxy-themed patterns were carefully embroidered, paying homage to the stars without resorting to impractical LED lights. These intricate designs glowed softly in the dark, giving her a mesmerizing yet functional appearance. The luminescent patterns not only added to her alluring cosmic vibe but also served a practical purpose. They acted as a subtle source of light, enough to provide visibility during low-light situations without compromising her stealth.


Her cape cascaded down her back like a fluid, interstellar phenomenon. It was a beautiful chaos of colors, mirroring the breathtaking collision of cosmic entities. The edges of the cape seemed to extend infinitely, giving her an otherworldly appearance, as if she were truly a celestial being. Despite its majestic appearance, the cape was designed to detach easily with a swift motion, preventing enemies from using it against her in combat. She's seen the movies. Zoey's hero's boots bore the iridescence of mother-of-pearl, akin to the inside of a seashell.


Around her waist, a utility belt held essential crime-fighting gadgets she had personally crafted. Each pouch was strategically placed and protected its contents with a magnetic seal, ensuring nothing would fall or be lost, regardless of her physical exertions.


Upon her head, she wore a headpiece resembling a crown of stars, holding in place her galaxy-themed mask. The mask, designed with both aesthetics and practicality in mind, allowed for a clear field of vision and unobstructed breathing. Its material was reinforced, providing ample protection against potential attacks targeting the head.


Boundless took the lead in infiltrating Club Neon. She led the kids down the roof, across the street, and a bit of distance away from the entrance of the club. There was a line of excited people waiting to go in and have fun. Unfortunately for them, their fun tonight was going to be ruined by their heroic exploits. Well, if everything went right anyway.


With a casual punch through a bathroom window, the trio of heroes made their way inside Club Neon through the men's bathroom. Boundless was greeted by a man pissing in the urinal who stared at her. She could see that his cheeks were flushed, and he didn't react like a normal person would when seeing a costumed freak like her breaking into a nightclub. So, he was drunk or drugged up and wouldn't run to the nightclub's bouncers to report them.


"Ho th' hell're you guysh?" He slurred.


"Don't mind us." Zoey calmly told him off. "Diablo, led us to the back room." She asked nicely.


Zoey already forgot the layout of the nightclub that Prometheus showed them. She was a C+ student at best and a D+ at worst. Do not ask her how she's been recommended for several college scholarships despite this. Maybe some schools value athletic ability more than academics, a guess that Zoey was completely fine with.


"Alright." Cindy took the lead after they left the bathroom.


Music reverberated through the air like a thunderclap after they left the bathroom. The club came alive with a symphony of wild cheers and hoots, echoing off the walls and mingling with the beats of purely electronically created songs. The atmosphere was electric, and the crowd responded with fervor, their hands raised in euphoria.


On the dance floor, men and women moved with abandon, some holding glasses of alcoholic drinks while others let their hands roam freely to perform lustful dance moves. The women, adorned in miniskirts and heels, matched the energy of the men, their hips gyrating seductively in response to the rhythmic music.


A diverse range of ages filled the club, with most falling between the vibrant ages of twenty-one and twenty-nine. Older patrons occasionally swayed awkwardly, donning forced smiles, and sipping their drinks at the bar. Their demeanor seemed to contrast with their droopy eyes and relaxed brows, hinting at hidden delight.


Meanwhile, the younger crowd exuded exuberance, puffing their chests and chatting animatedly with bright grins. They weaved through the masses, reveling in the thrill of the night, not even noticing the watchful eyes of the imposing men in black suits and thick shades stationed near the entrances and exits.


The club was a multi-level spectacle. On the upper floors, the black-suited guards maintained a watchful eye for VIP clients, sticking out like sore thumbs in comparison to the party animals littering the dance floor. The mid-level hosted the eccentric DJ, his extravagant hairstyle, and teal-colored sunglasses setting him apart as he deftly manipulated a complex sound system. His hands danced across a myriad of buttons, orchestrating the music that drove the crowd into a frenzy.


Descending to the lower level, the dance floor pulsed with sweaty excitement as bodies writhed and moved in sync with the pulsating beats. The thinly veiled allure and occasional flirtations added a layer of sensuality to the scene. Behind the bar, disinterested bartenders served drinks with practiced efficiency, their expressions betraying their detachment from the revelry around them. The flight of stairs and the single elevator at the top of it served as both entry and exit points, surrounded by the ever-watchful security personnel.


They needed to make their way across the dance floor to those stairs and eventually into that elevator. Zoey couldn't think of a way to do so discreetly, and time was not on their side dressed up like they were at a costume party. Hopefully, Prometheus accounted for this during the planning stage. She kind of zoned out when they reached the third step of the plan.


"Diablo, Glutton, what's the next step?" Zoey asked as if she was testing them.


"Distraction." Jack happily reminded her.


"Let's do it, then." Zoey nodded, giving them the go-ahead.


Cindy reached into her utility belt and pulled out a tablet. "Get ready to run to the elevator." She warned them before pressing on the screen a couple of times.


In an instant, all of the lights in the club went off. Boundless, Diablo, and Glutton rushed across the dance floor, knocking down people in their way with ease. Party people screamed and shouted at the sudden darkness blanketing the scene, giving the trio even more of a cover. Boundless used this opportunity to knock out several bouncers on their way up the stairs. People were starting to use the flashlight app on their phones. They needed to hurry, and taking out some of the bouncers would help them if they got caught mid-way.


The lights flickered briefly, and multiple bouncers saw them. They shouted at the sight of them. Boundless, Diablo, and Glutton fought to take them out as they came toward them. While the gangsters were well-built and large, they were no match against Zoey's Victorious Boxing. Critical knockout blows, debilitating strikes that were good enough to momentarily incapacitate them, or just avoiding them entirely.


When the lights came back on, the three heroes were heading down the elevator as the well-dressed gangsters started pulling out their phones and walkie-talkies. "We might have company on the way to and on the way back." Zoey chuckled. "Sneaking is a lot harder than I thought it would be." Jack frowned. "They were set up pretty well. Good thing Mr. Theo said stealth was optional." Diablo could feel herself shaking in excitement.


Zoey was glad to know that stealth was optional. She wasn't really known for being sneaky or anything. Maybe it wasn't the best first impression to her students. But no one could be good at everything, right? That could be a good lesson.


"Hands up, freakshows." Multiple guns were pointed at them as they arrived at the bottom floor.


Jack and Cindy looked at Zoey while slowly raising their hands. Zoey only madly grinned as she felt herself getting amped up. Prometheus said these outfits can handle gunfire, right? Let's see just how well they can do that.


Zoey rushed forward with her arms held in front of her face, covering her vulnerable head. Bullets fired, and her two students let out screams.
 
Chapter 160: Boundless, Diablo, and Glutton!
Zoey had Focus activated as a shower of bullets headed directly for her. She watched in slow motion as the bullets impacted against her suit. She could feel an ache, but that was from the bullet's force rather than the bullet tearing through her suit. Wanting to avoid her students seeing the deaths of multiple gangsters, Zoey rushed toward the center of the men.


"Stop shooting!" A bullet whizzed by a gangster's head.


"You fucking idiots are gonna kill me! Stop shooting!" A gangster said while still shooting.


"She's there! Kill her!" A gangster was unloading his magazine toward the costumed freak.


By bringing herself to the middle of them, they had to stop shooting, or they'll hit each other with their gunfire. It also induced a mass panic among the well-dressed criminals. Some of the men didn't stop shooting even when Zoey got in the middle of them. So, they started running when bullets started flying their way.


Diablo and Glutton used this opportunity to their advantage. They swooped down on the criminals without hesitation. The fear they felt being held at gunpoint was already being processed through their system. Through excessive violence done in the name of justice, of course.


Glutton smashed his weighted gloves down on the head of a man who tripped, knocking him out for a good long while. Diablo drilled her fist into a man's stomach for aiming his gun at her. The man screamed in agony from his internal organs being affected by the punch. As the two junior heroes were cleaning up the scene, they both looked toward their mentor every now and then.


"We have a lot more training to do if we wanna be effective heroes…" Glutton muttered while looking at the droves of bodies left behind by Miss Devil.


"Save some for me, Boundless!" Cindy kicked some of the bodies out of her way as she chased behind her mentor.


"I guess I'll clean up here…" Glutton looked at the dozens of bodies around him.


He started by taking all the guns of the criminals and dismantling them like a professional. At the beginning of his hero career, Mr. Theo taught him how to handle guns. Jack took the critical components of the guns and left behind the bodies. So, if they did get up, they couldn't shoot at them. The criminals weren't the focus of this mission but ruining the source of their money. Mr. Theo said the core of Tears's criminal gang was here in Club Neon.


Jack eventually caught up with Cindy and Miss Devil. They were stopped in front of a doorway. When Jack made it next to them, he was shocked out of his mind by the size of this place. Was this place really underground?! It looked like a giant factory!


The large drug factory was a sprawling underground complex hidden beneath the city's surface, carefully concealed from prying eyes. Accessible through a series of hidden entrances and secret passages, it existed as a clandestine hub for illegal drug production, distilling substances that fueled the criminal activities of the Tears gang.


The factory's entrance was camouflaged behind a nondescript facade, leading down a narrow, dimly lit tunnel that stretched deep underground. The further one descended, the more the air became tinged with an acrid smell, a mixture of chemicals.


Upon reaching the heart of the facility, the enormity of the operation became apparent. Vast chambers opened up, each dedicated to specific stages of the drug-making process. The air hummed with the sound of machinery, creating an eerie symphony that resonated through the corridors.


In the first chamber, large metal reactors stood tall, resembling the imposing figures of a dystopian world. They hissed and emitted clouds of vapor as chemical reactions took place within, transforming raw ingredients into the precursors of the illicit drug. The dim, reddish glow of various indicators and screens illuminated the room, adding an ominous aura to the scene.


Moving forward, one would encounter the distillation column, an impressive tower of gleaming steel that reached the ceiling. It served as a vital component in the purification process, separating different components based on their boiling points, allowing for the extraction of the purest substances. Thick glass tubes crisscrossed the room, conveying the distillates from one level to another, creating a mesmerizing display of flowing liquids.


Venturing deeper into the labyrinthine complex, the next chamber housed the extraction tanks, where skilled chemists carefully extracted active ingredients from organic sources. The space was filled with rows of vessels containing various plant matter and jars filled with potent chemicals.


Amidst the chambers, walkways, and platforms provided vantage points for the supervisory personnel, dressed in protective gear to shield themselves from potential hazards. They monitored the process with a cold, businesslike demeanor, ensuring that every step of the operation ran smoothly.


Throughout the factory, the pungent scent of chemicals and drugs permeated the air, an ever-present reminder of the illicit activities taking place within its walls.


Finally, at the core of the factory, stood the packaging and distribution station. Here, the final drug product was carefully processed, measured, and packaged into various forms for distribution. Pill presses thumped rhythmically, shaping the drugs into small, potent pills, ready for the streets.


The entire facility operated like a well-oiled machine, each component working in sync to produce a large volume of drugs, fueling the illegal operations of the Tears gang. The factory, hidden beneath the surface, remained a significant and dangerous center of criminal activity, perpetuating a cycle of violence and addiction that plagued the city.


"Do we have any explosives?" Zoey asked her students.


They both shook their heads. "We'll have to do it the old-fashioned way then." Those were the only words the two junior heroes heard before Boundless punched a large metal rack that towered near the ceiling. The two watched in absolute shock as the rack started a domino effect and began crashing into other racks filled with taped boxes. A pleased grin appeared on Boundless's lips as a worker in the factory came over to them. The men above seemed to be yelling and taking out their phones.


He was shouting something at Zoey, but with the sound of many things crashing and falling, it was impossible to hear him. It was only when he walked up and harshly grabbed Zoey's arm that she reacted to him. Considering he was an enemy in the war on crime that Zoey was participating in, she saw little reason to treat him innocently. It would be different if he was being forced here to do drugs, but from how he was acting underneath that protective costume, he looked pissed off that Zoey was ruining the drug-making process.


Zoey lightly socked him in the face and knocked him out cold. "I'll handle the assembly line. You guys try and destroy whatever you can over here." Boundless gave the order. "Yes, Boundless!" Cindy and Jack got to have some fun wrecking a factory.


Zoey effortlessly knocked out any workers that came her way as she began pulling shit, pushing shit, breaking shit, throwing shit, and generally, whatever else she could do to fuck up the huge ass assembly line. Once a pile of bodies lay wherever she came, the workers suddenly got the idea that she wasn't one to fuck with, and maybe it was time to get the fuck out of here.


Some of the fuckers got the idea that since they couldn't do anything about the sparkling bitch, the kids would be easier targets. "Sorry, kids, I need some reason for Tears not to shoot my brains out. You little fuckers ruining his shit is going to save my life once I get out of here." The drug-making worker in a protective suit said while closing in on Diablo with his co-workers.


Diablo just got done pulling multiple fire alarms, causing water to shower over the entire factory. Glutton made his way back to the elevator. He was waiting for their backup to arrive to take them out. After all, there was only one exit out of this place. Either they would be waiting for them to come up, or he would be waiting for them to come down.


"I'm at the elevator," Glutton told Boundless and Diablo through their wireless communication device.


"Got it!" Diablo responded as she tackled a grown man to the ground.


Her fists pounded into his face until another man grabbed her by the arm. At the interruption, she thanked him with an uppercut to the chin, freeing her arm. She grinned at the other men, using her finger to gesture at them to come at her together. The men were momentarily confused about how to proceed.


A little girl just kicked the ass of two grown men. They were grown men as well. Should they risk getting their ass kicked as well, or just say fuck it and hope these costumed maniacs deal with Tears before he can deal with them? Unfortunately, Diablo didn't give them the opportunity to think about their next action. She decided for them, and she decided that it was way more fun to beat them up. And ran at them.
 
Wow, can not believe that there's been so few posts for such a long story.
Anyway, while I had quite a few hangups at the start, your writing has really improved and I'm loving the story!
I do think that the sense of scale needs to be expanded soon, she's gotta go to other cities and see other mage branches!
 
And I do think that she should reenter the magic world, probably as an independent or with another faction.
 
Chapter 161: Tears.
Darkness shrouded the opulent penthouse, the only source of light coming from the twinkling cityscape below. The room exuded an aura of wealth and power, with plush velvet curtains drawn shut, obscuring the outside world. Shadows danced across the walls as Tears, the sole remaining criminal leader in Krey, stood near the floor-to-ceiling windows, gazing out over his empire.


His piercing eyes, the color of icy sapphires, mirrored the cold and calculating mind that resided behind them. A confident smirk played on his lips as he observed the glittering lights of Krey, the city he was cleanly taking over with the help of his boys. With his competition dealt by with some fatass playing hero, an opportunity to seize more power had presented itself, and Tears was not one to let it slip through his grasp so easily.


A flick of his finger on his phone beckoned a well-dressed large man to come through his suite promptly, his face obscured by thick dark glasses. The air seemed to thicken with tension as he stood in front of Tears, awaiting his command.


"I just got an interesting text," Tears' voice echoed through the room. His voice seemed tempered and calm on the surface. "Gather some boys. I think our little vigilante isn't satisfied just taking down Lamar and maybe Dino."


As he spoke, the bodyguard leaned in closer, hanging onto his every word. Working for a gangster and getting into crime wasn't his idea coming out of high school. It just turns out, when you don't give a crap during school, the world shows it also doesn't give a crap about you. The only thing that he found that worked for him was using his naturally big body to his advantage. Somehow that ended him up here to Tears, drawn by the promise of wealth, power, and the safety of knowing that no one was going to fuck with a big criminal.


"I hope you don't fuck it up," Tears continued, his voice taking on a menacing edge. "For your sake." The bodyguard ensured that the boys he was calling were coming in hot with as much firepower as they could get.


The pent-up rage that had simmered within Tears found its way to the surface, fueled by the possibility that someone was trying to fuck over everything he's had to work for. He had worked meticulously to build his criminal empire, and this little fat fuck dared to disrupt his carefully laid plans.


"This city belongs to me and no one else." Tears declared, his voice rising with fervor. "I am not like Dino and Lamar!"


After the bodyguard reported to him about gathering the majority of their boys, Tears couldn't help but get a little confused. Why the hell would there be trouble at Club Neon? Only he and a special few people knew about what went on at Club Neon. Tears knew that none of those that did know about the business that allowed him to pay his men would ever talk about it if they valued the lives of themselves or their loved ones. So that meant they either got lucky, or someone slipped up and gave some mutts a lead.


Tears paced the dimly lit penthouse like a contemplative thinker, his thoughts a maelstrom of uneasiness. On one hand, he was pissed off that someone was trying to figure out that Club Neon was anything other than just a simple club. On the other hand, he felt a surge of caution, a voice in the back of his mind warning him not just to let his men handle this.


He couldn't risk it. Club Neon was too important to his business. Tears suited up and armed himself as he made his way to the entrance of his building. A driver working for the company drove him to Club Neon. On the way there, he occasionally tapped his arm with his finger throughout the entire ride. It could be seen as a depiction of his slight anxiety at this possibly turning out to become a bigger nuisance than he thought. As the night deepened, Tears met up with his most trusted boys at the club to tell him what the fuck was going on.


"Get everybody the fuck out of here. The club is closed for tonight," Tears declared, his voice dripping with authority. His men exchanged nervous glances before ordering everyone out of the club in a calm and orderly manner. A difficult endeavor, considering they were either drunk out of their minds, drugged out of their minds, or confused by the loud and tough bouncers shouting at them. But eventually, everyone was kicked out of Club Neon with promises of half-off vouchers for the unexpected situation. Tears was then told what was going on, and he felt like taking out his pistol and shooting all of them for their uselessness.


"Who the fuck is behind this?" Tears snarled, his icy gaze sweeping over his boys. "I want names, and I want them now!"


His help exchanged uneasy glances, fear flickering in their eyes. None of them wanted to be the bearer of bad news, but one of them finally mustered the courage to speak up.


"We... we don't know, boss," a guy wearing a stained wife-beater stammered. "They came out of nowhere. We didn't see them coming, and they hit us hard and fast. They even turned off all of the lights somehow! We had to rely on the backup generators to restart the power just to know they were here."


Tears seethed with frustration, his mind racing with possibilities. His grip on his pistol tightened as he considered his options. He shook his head. It wasn't the time to get rid of them yet. Those motherfuckers were still in here. After taking the elevator, there was only one way in and one way out. They were going to be riddled with bullets after coming up the elevator.


"I don't care who they are or where they came from," Tears growled. "Stay here and wait for them. I want to see their corpses turned into Swiss cheese!"


The boys nodded, knowing the consequences of failure. They all took up positions near the elevator, scattering throughout the club like newly recruited soldiers, waiting for any signs of life coming up the elevator.


As the night wore on, Tears paced the now-empty club, the silence deafening. He couldn't shake the feeling that some fuckery was happening in his drug factory. The very foundations of his criminal empire were being shaken, and he didn't know what was happening to it. Was he a fucking idiot for sitting here waiting for them to come? Should he have just rushed down in the elevator with the boys?


In a moment of rare vulnerability, Tears allowed his mind to drift back to his early days in the city – a time of struggle and survival, where he clawed his way up from the bottom rungs of society. He remembered the hunger for survival, the relentless pursuit of power, and the cruel sacrifices he had made to become the man he was today.


He had always known that power came at a price, that there would be those who sought to take what he had taken from others. But this... this was different. He had not foreseen this threat, and it ate away at the edges of his sanity.


As the first rays of dawn painted the city in orange hues, Tears made a decision. He couldn't wait for his men to handle this – he needed to confront these assholes personally. He had to deal with this threat personally. Until he saw their corpses himself, this wasn't going to end!


He had always been a man of action, and now was no different. When he was crawling up through the city's underground hierarchy, he didn't just sit and fucking wait, hoping that things would turn out well. He took life by the balls and made fucking sure they went the way he wanted them to go. Tears took the modified assault rifle of a yawning asshole and headed toward the elevator with as many boys he could fit inside it. He was prepared to face these assholes with all the fury and ruthlessness he could muster.


The time had come for Tears to show them that he was not to be fucked with. That he was a force of nature. He would stop at nothing to protect his empire and crush anyone who dared to stand in his way. The slow ride of the elevator nibbled on his already jumping nerves. Tears was armed to the teeth along with his boys. They were all ready to do as he asked. Otherwise, they might not see their loved ones later on today.


When Tears and his boys reached the bottom of the elevator, they saw their boys piled up in a corner with guns disassembled all over the floor. The doors to the elevator opened, and as they all stepped out, something exploded, and everything turned into chaos. They could see nothing but white, and breathing was difficult. Tears tried to pull the trigger on his rifle, but he couldn't gather enough strength in his trigger finger. Everything was getting blurry. Why did he feel so damn sleepy…? What the fuck…?


'I'll have to thank Boundless for bringing us to that expensive first-aid class,' Glutton thought to himself while covering his mouth and nose. "Now I know to cover my entrance and exits when going into a place in case of an emergency." Glutton focused his eyes on the person dressed differently from the other armed criminals. "I hope you're important enough to get us out of here, Mr. Fancy Suit."
 
Chapter 162: Mission Complete!
Boundless, Diablo, and Glutton stood over Tears's unconscious body. Diablo slapped him awake, holding almost nothing back while doing so. Tears screamed at being woken up so violently and painfully. His eyes frantically paced around as he desperately tried to understand his situation.


"Yeah, this guy looks familiar. This is probably Tears." Zoey could remember some delinquent with a lip ring that looked similar to this guy.


"Who the fuck are you, mentally deficient motherfuckers!? Do you know who I am?! Do you know who you're fucking with!?" Tears squirmed angrily with his hands and legs restrained by zip ties. "I'll kill all three of you! I'll murder your families! You won't live safely in this city once I'm out of here!" He threatened viscerally.


"Diablo, Glutton, how do you think we should handle a villain like this?" Boundless was curious. She knew how she would handle it but was interested in how her students would go about it.


"Based on HQ's file about this guy's list of crimes, I'd say we should ruin him so that he can never hurt anyone ever again," Diablo suggested with an eager smile and clenched fist.


"That's going too far…" Glutton shook his head.


"Too far? He's killed innocent people and made money from their suffering! A lifelong relationship with a hospital bed is charitable at this point." Diablo argued.


Glutton took a moment to breathe and think. Thinking back to his reasons for becoming a hero. The words that Miss Devil told him long ago that stuck with him all this time. She didn't teach them how to fight for the purpose of hurting people but to protect the weak and innocent. If a person like this, who thrives on the suffering of others, was allowed to be processed by the legal system when he had his hands in the pockets of the police department and maybe even the courts. What would happen?


"It just doesn't seem like a heroic thing to do." Glutton shared his opinion.


"Well, you can worry about living up to your standards of a hero all you want." Diablo narrowed her eyes at him. "I'm going to give him the punishment he deserves for all of the innocent lives he's ruined." Diablo stood over the still screaming and cursing Tears.


"Wait!" Glutton stood in front of her with his arms stretched out.


"Are you seriously protecting this jerkwad?" Diablo couldn't believe what she was seeing.


"I'm not protecting him! Just give me a moment to think!" Glutton requested.


Diablo punched Glutton across the face, knocking him off of his feet. "You can think all you want when we're finished with the mission. This isn't the time to be thinking about what kind of hero you want to be. You should've done that when you first put on the costume, idiot." Diablo used the chance to break Tears.


Boundless watched silently at her students. She didn't intervene at any point. Cindy didn't hesitate to beat the shit out of Tears mercilessly. Tears's threats died in his throat when he was being ground-pounded by a person more than half his age. With fresh pain flowing throughout his body then came the begging, pleading, and promises of wealth and servitude.


It was only when Diablo was planning to utilize some of her wrestling moves to break him in a more crippling manner that Zoey stepped in. She grabbed her by the collar like a little kitten and lifted her up. In the other hand, she picked up Tears's barely conscious body. "HQ, it's time for evac at Club Neon." Zoey phoned in to Prometheus.


"Understood. We'll be waiting outside." Prometheus responded.


"Come on, Glutton," Boundless told the boy with a bleeding nose.


Glutton glared at Diablo while Diablo just crossed her arms and turned her head as they all got on the elevator. When they made it to the top of the elevator, they were greeted by several gangsters pointing guns in their direction. Zoey dropped Tears and Diablo as she rushed to the nearest gunman.


Diablo and Glutton hid behind Tears's body as bullets started flying. Zoey utilized her fighting skills and track skills together. It was a rare occurrence. She had to admit. Her fist slugged a guy across the face and dropped him while she continued running to the next person closest to her. The bullets flew behind her in an effort to keep up with her, ripping through the club's equipment and walls.


"Stop fucking firing! We're over here too!" A gangster screamed before getting clocked in the jaw and crumpling like a puppet with its strings cut.


Zoey never stopped moving while taking out the men. The gangsters didn't let up with the gunfire as their fear overtook the logical part of their brains. They didn't see the other men they worked with while firing. They only saw the other men being taken down by a freak in a sparkling costume and knew that they didn't want to end up like them.


Boundless ripped and tore through their impromptu formation like a hurricane. Her fists were undeniable. However, she didn't just punch and then run to the next person. Zoey has long since learned to do more than just punch in a fight. While she's never been in stakes as high as this in the normal world, it was just a little step higher than when she was fighting delinquents some time ago.


Zoey uppercut a gangster in the jaw, and as he was lifting off of the ground from the force of her punch, she grabbed him by the throat and tossed him at the men still firing at her before rushing off to the next criminal. Her fist found itself at home inside the man's stomach, and before he could spew his lunch, she grabbed him and tossed him at his friends. Zoey's aim was accurate and strong. On more than one occasion did some of the thrown criminals get shot by their own friends.


But Zoey reasoned it was better than her being shot. It was fucking impossible to prevent deaths in a situation like this, with frightened idiots holding down the trigger and not thinking with their brains. She may be acting like a superhero, but that doesn't mean she was a fucking miracle worker. Her life was more important than the lives of some scumbags willing to kill people on the orders of some man they barely knew just for money.


Gunfire was a lot harder to avoid than Zoey thought without relying on magji. Her high body stat, Dash, Endurance, and Focus, were the only reasons why she hasn't had to resort to mahna so far. Only when Zoey started to see the men shaking in fear did she suddenly realize something… She probably could've used Fighting Aura to avoid this whole situation in the first place! Terrifying them into dropping their guns and surrendering.


'But this is way more fun, right?' Inner Zoey argued.


'Not when we have the kids with us.' Zoey argued back.


By this point, seeing so many of their allies being taken down despite shooting at this maniac with several automatic weapons. The gangsters realized they were out of their league. They began fleeing the club while dropping the weapons on the scene. None of them wanted to suffer the same fate as the others.


The sounds of groaning and crying plagued the nightclub. Zoey motioned to the kids to come on. They dragged Tears as they came along behind her. She could feel them looking at her brightly, but Zoey didn't get a big head over it or anything. It was natural for students to look up to their teacher, she thought with a smile. Although Cindy's eyes might be glowing a little too brightly…


Outside the club, a black limo was parked out front. The window rolled down, and Little Imp popped his head out in his human disguise. "Get in!" He happily told them while unlocking the doors. Zoey helped the kids throw Tears's body in before getting in themselves. As they took off from Club Neon, Zoey coughed to get her students' attention.


"I want you both to know that you didn't fail on your first mission, but you still have plenty to improve on," Zoey told them straight up in teacher mode.


She looked at Jack first. "Glutton, a mission is not the place or time to be deciding how you want to enact your brand of justice. That should be decided beforehand. However, you did a great job in watching our backs, looking out for potential danger, and capturing an important target." Zoey lectured.


Then she looked at Cindy. "Diablo, unless they're being brainwashed or something, you don't attack your friends. I understand your feelings, but that is no excuse for you to hit your friend. You should apologize to Glutton. Just because you have a difference of opinions doesn't make it right for you to force yours on others because you have the strength to. You should have acknowledged Glutton's concerns and focused on taking Tears away instead of forcing your own way. There would be time after the mission to do it your way still if Glutton's way didn't work out. You did a good job progressing in our martial art during the mission, but you need to keep an eye out more for potential danger like hidden weapons or making sure you have an escape route if you need to run." Zoey didn't hold anything back for her students.


"I'm sorry for hitting you, Glutton." Diablo immediately apologized. "I'll try to think more before acting," Cindy told him.


Glutton didn't say anything back. He just looked at Cindy before turning away. Cindy didn't get angry that he didn't accept her apology. Miss Devil taught them that you can't expect people just to accept your apologies. If they don't forgive you, they don't forgive you. All you can do is just prove with your actions that you're sorry and try to do better in the future.


For Zoey, playing superheroes was a lot more fucking dangerous than she thought, but she's already come this far. Maybe it was because they went after the head poncho for their first fucking mission. Zoey felt slightly embarrassed now that she thought about it. She was still kind of a fucking dumbass even after all this shit she's gone through. They could've just gone after petty crimes before working their way up to Tears. Hell, she could've gone after Tears solo without introducing these two to the hell difficulty of shutting down a drug empire. But maybe this experience would be good for them. Teaching was a weird ass skill.


"When Meditating later, think back to how you could've done better on this mission," Zoey advised them.


"Yes, Boundless…" The two responded, properly reflecting on their actions during the mission.
 
Chapter 163: The Aftermath of a Successful Mission.
The city of Krey was on the cusp of a great change, and the air was thick with anticipation as the sun showed off its glorious brightness high in the sky early in the morning. The Krey at News newsroom was a hive of activity, with employees putting the finishing touches on their stories. The citizens of Krey were about to bear witness to news that would shake the very foundations of their city.


As the clock struck 7 a.m., the news anchor took her position with solemnity, her eyes reflecting the gravity of the situation. The weight of the news she was about to deliver was palpable, and the city held its collective breath.


"Good evening, Krey," she began, her voice steady and resolute. "Tonight, we embark on a journey into the dark underbelly of crime that has plagued our city for who knows how long. We are about to expose the malevolence that was Tears, the criminal mastermind behind an insidious criminal empire that has wreaked havoc on our streets. Tears is the name that many might know him by, but his actual name is Jason Brooks."


The screen behind her came alive, displaying chilling statistics of the damage that drugs, gang violence, and other similar crimes have done to Krey. Numbers and figures danced across the screen, painting a grim picture of the destruction wrought by this man's organization.


"For years, Tears operated with impunity, spreading the poison of addiction through our streets, violently harassing members of the public, leaving countless lives shattered and terrified in his wake," the anchor said, her voice tinged with sorrow for the lives lost and broken.


The screen then transitioned to a web of corruption, revealing the names of public figures supposedly entangled in Tears' back pocket. They were being funded with his drug money and, in turn, ensuring that nothing happened to Tears. No investigations into his group and lenient sentences for any members of his gang caught by the authorities. As the names flashed across the screen, gasps could be heard from the citizens of Krey, who were appalled by the extent of the corruption that had taken root. There were people in high positions within the police force, the court, and even hospitals.


"But amidst the darkness, a glimmer of hope emerged," the anchor continued, her voice gaining strength. "Three enigmatic heroes, whose identities remain shrouded in mystery except for one named Glutton, stepped forward to challenge Tears and his empire. Their acts of valor and bravery have earned them the admiration of our city."


The screen displayed images of Boundless in action, fighting fearlessly against the criminals that had once held the city in their grip. She appeared as a symbol of hope and defiance, and her actions stirred the hearts of many. In the background of the shaky video, Glutton and Diablo could be seen staring with glowing eyes at Boundless.


"These courageous figures, driven by a desire to protect the innocent, fearlessly confronted Jason Brooks and his gang," the anchor narrated, her voice filled with admiration. "Their relentless pursuit of justice culminated in the takedown of a criminal empire that had evaded the grasp of our own law enforcement for years."


As the news report unfolded, the citizens of Krey were taken on a journey of revelation. They witnessed the shaky but epic video of what had unfolded at Club Neon, where Boundless had confronted Tears's gangsters with unmatched bravery and heroic fighting prowess. Eyewitness reports were shared, providing chilling accounts of the confrontation. Traumatized gangsters with blurred faces recounted the terrifying feeling when encountering the mysterious hero. Her punches struck with a force that defied belief. Their guns were basically useless in the face of her speed and strength.


"I've never seen anything like it, man," one gangster stammered, his voice trembling with fear. "That motherfucker, She was like a fucking tank or something! She took down our boys in seconds like it was nothing! While she was being shot at!"


Another gangster, his eyes wide with terror, added, "I tried to shoot 'em, but the bullets just bounced off 'em! It was like they were wearing bulletproof armor or something!!"


"And in a moment that would mark a turning point for our city, these heroes emerged victorious, bringing an end to Jason's reign of terror," the anchor declared, her voice tinged with pride. "Their actions have exposed the inadequacies of our law enforcement and left us with hope for a brighter future. If the law can't do it, we can count on our heroes to save us in our time of need."


As the news report came to a close, the anchor's voice resonated with a sense of hope and determination. "Tonight, Krey stands united in the face of darkness, inspired by the courage of these costumed heroes. They have shown us that justice is not just a word but a force to be reckoned with. As we unmask the malevolence that once held our city captive, let us move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and unity. We may not know who you three are, but on behalf of Krey, I thank you for making this city a safer place to live. If you ever wish to get in contact with us, please just let us know, and we'll set up an interview at any time."


The screen faded to black, leaving the citizens of Krey to process the revelations that had unfolded before them. The heroes, whose identities except for one remained unknown, had become symbols of hope and inspiration for a city in need of change. The night was filled with whispers of their deeds, and the city looked to them with newfound admiration and respect. However, not everyone was particularly happy about this.




In the aftermath of the news report exposing Tears' criminal empire and the involvement of corrupt public figures, the walls of the police department were closing in on Police Chief Richard Lawson. With mounting evidence and public outrage, it didn't take long before he faced the consequences of his actions.


It only took a few hours until a squad of determined officers from an independent investigation unit stormed into the police chief's office. The once powerful and imposing figure of Chief Lawson now appeared disheveled and defeated as he was handcuffed and escorted out of the building.


His arrest sent shockwaves throughout the city's law enforcement, and whispers of corruption within the police department reached a crescendo. The people of Krey demanded justice, and those officers who had remained loyal to the ideals of true justice felt a newfound strength to stand up against the corrupt. While those corrupt officers felt terrified at this change happening within their order. If someone as powerful as the chief can be arrested in broad daylight in front of everyone, who's to say they also can't be held accountable for the actions they've done? Perhaps it was time to turn over a new leaf…




In the halls of the Krey Courthouse, Judge Margaret Turner was also facing the wrath of the law. As law enforcement officers surrounded her courtroom, her authority lost its grounding as she was now silenced by guilt and fear. Witnesses didn't hesitate to put Margaret's business for everyone to see. Evidence of her unfair rulings and more came forward, recounting tales of bribes and unfair judgments, casting a dark shadow over the judicial system's integrity. The judge's expression turned pale as she realized all of her wealth and power meant nothing at this moment. As she was led away in handcuffs, Judge Turner's downfall served as a warning to others who had allowed themselves to be swayed by the allure of power and money. The citizens of Krey saw hope that the courts would be cleansed of corruption, ensuring a fair and just legal system going forward.


Zoey also made a post for people to remember that everyone sentenced by this judge should have their cases canceled or undergo a new trial with a judge who has not been proven to be corrupt. How the fuck would it be fair to those people in jail right now because she wanted dollar bills stuffed in her pockets?




Dr. Benjamin Evans, the esteemed hospital director, was under investigation at Krey General Hospital. The hospital had been a key player in Tears' operations, providing resources to him that he couldn't get anywhere else so easily. He'd have been put on a list faster than you could say drug dealer if it wasn't for Dr. Benjamin Evans supporting Jason Brook's drug empire. Now, the hospital's reputation was in tatters. Patient confidence was shaken, and the once-revered Dr. Evans became the face of mockery and shame. As investigators combed through anonymously submitted evidence, they found a trail of embezzlement and illegal payments that led straight to the hospital director's door. The arrests sent shockwaves through the medical community and forced the hospital to initiate its own internal investigations to root out corruption and save face from public backlash. The hospital had turned into a battleground of trying to keep its doors open and preventing its patients from leaving. The citizens of Krey started to question who they could trust with their health and well-being.




Beyond the walls of public institutions, an influential businessman, Robert Smith, was also ensnared in the net of justice. For years, he had danced in the shadows, manipulating the strings of power and amassing unimaginable wealth through his dealings with Tears. But the heroes' exposure of Tears' empire also revealed Smith's dirty secrets. The once untouchable mogul found himself stripped of his power and hauled before the courts, his wealth now crumbling under the weight of his dirty dealings. As Smith's businesses faced bankruptcy and his ill-gotten wealth was seized, the citizens of Krey rejoiced, seeing it as a victory against the exploitation of the weak and vulnerable. But more for the reason of eating the rich. People rejoiced when bad things happened to rich people. It only multiplied when that rich person was an actual bad person.




With each arrest, the city of Krey began to reckon with the extent of corruption that had taken root in its very foundation. The heroes' actions ignited a spark of hope, but it was only the beginning of a long and arduous journey to restore Krey to its peak.


As the news of these arrests spread, more individuals who had once been complacent in Tears' reign began to fear the wrath of justice. Some sought redemption by coming forward as whistleblowers, providing crucial information to dismantle the criminal empire piece by piece or snitch on anyone who's wronged them. Others, however, chose to remain in the shadows, clinging to their power and hoping to escape the vigilant eyes of the law.


Boundless, Diablo, and Glutton planned to use the investigative resources of Mr. Theo to aid them in completely wiping out evil from Krey. This was only the first step. Neither Diablo nor Glutton had any plans to stop anytime soon. For Boundless, this was only temporary until she felt that she could trust her students to start sticking it out on their own. Being a superhero isn't really her thing. The whole working for free part wasn't her thing, but the attention was nice. She liked people complimenting her costume and how tight it made her booty look.
 
Chapter 164: Life Still Isn’t Simple…
[author]


Comment/Review the story, readers, and give me ideas on possible skills, situations, developments, etc., of things you want to see! No guarantees that I will add what you want. But it helps to have ideas out there. Please point out any mistakes you notice or anything you're not clear about. I'll try to answer them and fix them to the best of my abilities.


Shout-out to special Patreon members: Tuan Nguyen, Blacklionpride24,


[/author]




Some time ago…


As Poison and Jinx frantically and miraculously escaped the devastation caused by Victor's sudden suicide attack, they found themselves suddenly emerging in a random and unfamiliar corner of the city. The air crackled with residual energy from the teleportation, and they struggled to steady themselves after the disorienting journey. As they looked around, they found that they had arrived in an abandoned and dilapidated alleyway.


Tall buildings towered on either side, their once grand facades now faded and marred by the passage of time. Broken windows and graffiti-covered walls added to the sense of desolation that permeated the area. The street lights flickered weakly, casting eerie shadows that danced in the dim illumination.


The alleyway was narrow, barely wide enough for a single car to pass through. Piles of trash and debris littered the ground, evidence of neglect and abandonment. The scent of decay and dampness hung heavily in the air, a stark contrast to the bustling streets of the city just a few blocks away.


Despite the chaos and danger they had narrowly escaped, there was an eerie silence in this forsaken corner of the city. It was as if time itself had stopped in this forgotten place, and all that remained were the ghosts of its former existence.


Poison's upper half barely clung to life. The once proud daemon, with her emerald-green hair and deadly poison, was now broken and on the brink of death. But she refused to let go, clinging to the last shreds of life with a tenacity born of rage and hatred. Zoey's master managed to take her lower body in that dangerous magji technique of his, but an injury like this was nothing for a Second Grade daemon infinitesimally close to becoming a Daemon King.


The pain was excruciating, every breath a struggle as her body fought to remake. Her vision blurred, and her consciousness wavered between the realms of the living and the dead. But within the depths of her being, an unyielding boiling pot of poison bubbled- a poison fueled by rage and a thirst for vengeance. She glowed with an intense green light as if resonating with the very essence of her deadly poison. With a primal scream that echoed through the desolate alleyway, she began the arduous process of rebuilding her broken body.


Muscles, tendons, and bones started to regenerate and weave together. The pain intensified, but Poison gritted her teeth, refusing to succumb to the agony. Her determination was unwavering, her mind consumed by a single thought: revenge. Her emerald-green hair, now matted with sweat and blood, seemed to pulse with mahna as her body fought to heal itself. Slowly, inch by inch, her lower body began to take form. Muscles rippled, and bones knitted together, guided entirely by her will and mahna control.


Time seemed to lose its meaning as Poison's body underwent its transformation. What would be impossible for a magjistar to heal was condensed into minutes for this daemon whose essence thrived on mahna and the thought of vengeance. But every second felt like an eternity to her, each heartbeat a testament to her relentless will to survive. As her lower half gradually formed, Poison's mind delved into the deepest recesses of her being, tapping into her magji shard. The essence of poison that flowed within her was not just a weapon of destruction but a source of power and regeneration. With newfound clarity, she honed her control over this toxic energy, channeling it to accelerate her body's recovery. After all, the only difference between poison and medicine was the dosage…


The intensity of her magji shard's glow intensified, casting an eerie glow over the alleyway. It was a sign of her indomitable spirit, her defiance in the face of death. Jinx, the small white fox, watched with concern, sensing the pain their companion was going through. And then, like a phoenix rising from its own ashes, Poison emerged anew. Her lower body had been reconstructed, whole and strong. She stood tall, her eyes burning with an unquenchable dripping poison. The pain was still there, an ever-present reminder of the cost of survival.


But she was no longer broken; she was remade, reborn from the brink of death. At this moment, she shed her old self, leaving behind the daemons she had painstakingly gathered and raised who had been swallowed up by that insane suicidal magjistar. She was Poison, the daemon closest to the path of becoming a Daemon King, and she would stop at nothing to achieve her vengeance.


With newfound purpose and power coursing through her veins, Poison looked to the city before her. The lights of Krey twinkled in the distance, and she knew that her nemesis, Zoey Winters, lurked somewhere in its heart. A sinister smile curved on her lips as she took a step forward, her movements fluid and confident. Jinx happily hopped on top of Poison's shoulders. The two were very hungry…


The headquarters she had meticulously built over the past year was destroyed, reduced to nothingness by the unstoppable force of Victor's final stand. Poison and Jinx had managed to escape, but the cost was immeasurable – everything she had worked for, all her plans for revenge and conquest, shattered in an instant.


Fueled by anger and a thirst for vengeance, Poison's mind was consumed by thoughts of Zoey Winters, the student of the very man who had brought about her downfall. In Poison's eyes, Zoey had become the embodiment of all her pain and suffering, the living reminder of her humiliation. In the depths of her anger, Poison vowed that Zoey would pay for the destruction of her empire, for the loss of her pride, and for the scars she now bore both physically and emotionally. The city of Krey would burn under Poison's wrath, and she would make sure Zoey suffered the most.




The high-profile fighting press conference between Zoey Winters and Simon Birch was a highly anticipated event, drawing reporters, fans, and fighters from all corners of the fighting world. The venue, a large conference hall in the heart of the city, was packed with excitement and tension as the fighters and their entourages took their places on the stage.


The atmosphere was electric, with bright spotlights illuminating the stage and a large backdrop displaying the logos of both fighters and their respective gyms. The crowd buzzed with anticipation, their murmurs filling the air as they eagerly awaited the fighters' appearance. The press conference was hosted by a charismatic emcee who knew how to work the crowd, hyping up the upcoming fight and encouraging the reporters to ask tough questions. The reporters, a mix of seasoned veterans and eager newcomers, jostled for position, their cameras and recording devices ready to capture every moment of the heated exchange.


As the time for the fighters' entrance drew near, the tension in the room reached a crescendo. The emcee's voice boomed through the speakers, introducing Zoey Winters first, the crowd erupting into cheers as the formidable and unbeatable "Devil" stepped onto the stage. Zoey exuded quiet confidence. She gave off an atmosphere that no one could deny. This was a top-of-the-line fighter—someone who could demolish the average person without even trying.


Next came Simon Birch, the currently undefeated Fighting Tournament League wrestler known as "Mr. Ground N Pound." He walked onto the stage with a swagger, his imposing presence drawing both cheers and boos from the crowd. Birch was a burly man. His muscular frame was similar to Zoey's but with more length to his limbs than the short young woman.


The emcee wasted no time stirring up some drama between the fighters before letting the reporters ask their questions. Simon was the first to answer any questions from the audience. He had a very self-assured smile on his face. Zoey simply crossed her arms with her legs propped on top of the table, looking as if this whole thing was a waste of time.


"Simon, how do you see The Devil's fighting style, and how do you plan to counter it in the ring?" A young woman reporter asked.


"I see that it ain't worth squat, and Devil?" Simon scoffed. "I've seen scarier things back on ma' Papa's farm late at night. This scrawny little butterfly ain't nothing but smoke and mirrors."


"Devil! How do you respond to that?!" An eager beaver excitedly jumped while waving their hands before she pointed to them.


"I don't fight to be scary. I fight to win." Zoey kept her response brief.


"The Devil is a rising star in the fighting scene, with an impressive record just like yours. What's your take on her achievements, and do you think she stands a chance against you in the ring?!" A professionally looking bespectacled reporter asked.


With a demeaning snort, "Her achievements? Well, buttercup, I reckon she's just been fightin' a bunch of no-names and pushovers. Her record might look pretty on paper, but let me tell ya, it ain't worth the paper it's written on. She's delusional if she thinks she stands a snowball's chance in hell against me. Mr. Ground N Pound ain't gonna be stopped by some little gal playin' pretend fighter." He laughed.


"Devil! How do you handle the pressure of a high-profile fight like this, and what do you do to keep your nerves in check before stepping into the ring?" This reporter decided not to ask her what she thought of Simon's words.


"What pressure? There's only been one fighter so far that has managed to excite me in the ring. Unfortunately, I don't believe…" Zoey looked at Simon. "He will be the next."


"OI! GIRLIE! You tryna say I ain't worth your time?! You agreed to this fight!" Simon shouted at her.


"I simply humored you." Zoey looked at her nails, not even looking at him.


"Why I oughta!" Simon shot up from his seat and started walking over to Zoey's table.


Multiple men on his side desperately held him back. It took four grown men to stop him from making it over to Zoey's side of the stage. He glared at her while yelling. "We can go at it right and here and now, ya' damn publicity stunt!"


"Mr. Simon! Please!" His team begged him not to start anything.


"Ha." The Devil finally looked at him for the first time during this entire press conference. "I wouldn't care either way. In the ring or right here, you'll still be another soul collected by me."


The press conference reached its climax as the audience went crazy at this exchange. The emcee desperately tried to take control of the charged atmosphere. The press conference concluded with both fighters squaring off for a face-to-face staredown, their eyes locked in a silent battle that spoke volumes. The Devil stared up at Mr. Ground N Pound in a dismissive manner while he glared at her, looking as if he was ready to eat her in one bite.


The atmosphere in the room was electric, with the reporters scrambling to capture the intensity of the moment. Flashes of light were rapidly snapping every second. The fighters' fans cheered and jeered, adding to the frenzied energy of the press conference. Cameras flashed, recording every second of the heated confrontation.


As the fighters left the stage, the reporters rushed to file their stories, their articles and videos dominating the headlines in the days leading up to the fight. The press conference had set the stage for an epic showdown between two formidable fighters, and the anticipation among fans and fighters alike reached a fever pitch. Even those with no interest in the fighting community heard about this exciting fight coming soon. The fighting press conference had delivered all the drama and excitement expected from a high-profile showdown. The rivalry between Zoey Winters and Simon Birch had been stoked, ensuring that the upcoming fight would be one for the ages.
 
Chapter 165: Starlight University!
In Luminaurora, the disappointment and anger among a group of young magjistars intensified. They had once believed in Zoey Winters when no one else did, trusting her claims about an imminent daemon invasion. Their dedication to her words had been unwavering, as they saw it as their chance to become famous magjistars and leave their mediocre lives behind as just young magjistars with nothing to their names. Climbing the ranks in an instant and outclassing all of their peers as magjistars.


But the truth shattered their hopes like fragile glass. The promised daemon attack never came to pass, and Zoey's credibility crumbled with it. They felt betrayed, and their dreams of fame and heroism shattered into pieces. They had risked everything for her cause, and she had let them down. As the weight of the deception bore down on them, the frustration within the group grew into a wave of uncontrollable anger. They saw Zoey Winters as the reason behind their shattered dreams, the one who had manipulated their trust in the first place. It was time for them to take matters into their own hands, to teach Winters a lesson for playing with their lives and ambitions.


In a dimly lit hideout, away from prying eyes, the once enthusiastic group gathered with solemn expressions. Jacky, her fiery spirit now consumed by a vengeful rage, spoke with an intensity that reverberated through the room, "That bitch made a fool of us. Spouting all that bullshit… And for what?!."


Tara added with a hint of bitterness, "I never trusted that bitch in the first place." Timmy's face contorted with frustration as he clenched his fists, "We were ready to become big damn heroes, and she freaking lied to us! Why would she do that?! What did she gain about lying about a daemon invasion?!" Kara, known for her level-headedness, couldn't hide the frustration in her voice, "I was willing to give her a chance to prove that she was innocent. That the government we grew up with was wrong in this case, but they were completely right. There was no invasion, Zoey was a liar, and we're stuck here still treated like dumb kids at the bottom."


Tristan, the voice of reason among them, interjected cautiously, "I understand being angry but resorting to violence won't solve anything. How about we just confront her and ask her exactly what happened at the trial? All we know about what happened at the trial was that Victor Kahn went crazy, became a traitor to magjistars everywhere, and Zoey Winters was exiled from the magjistar community."


Lea, who had always remained stoic, now spoke with an uncharacteristic intensity, "If we think her answer is satisfactory, we accept it and do nothing. However, if she lied just to save her own skin, we'll deal with the famous prodigy of the late Victor Kahn together. As talented as she is, there is no way she could take all of us on at the same time. We're some of the best in our generation!"


The group unanimously agreed that Zoey needed to be held accountable for her actions. However, their first plan was not to inflict harm but to confront her and get the truth out of her. Although some members might want to cause violence first and then ask questions, ultimately, more members thought it would be best if they didn't have to fight with Zoey. Memories of the Prodigy Hunt still flowed through their minds. Who knows how strong she has become since then?


"If need be, we should invite some of the Connate Faction prodigies she hunted in case things do turn out wrong, just as a backup," Timmy suggested.


"The less chance we have of getting beat up sounds good to me." Cassie laughed in support of Timmy's plan.


As they left the hideout to prepare, their emotions were a tangled mess of anger, betrayal, and disappointment. Even if Zoey had an acceptable explanation for her actions and words, it still wouldn't eliminate their grievances at being denied fame and status among their peers. If there was one thing every teenager dreamed about was rising past their status as dumb kids and becoming famous or popular. Respected by everyone and loved by everyone. Someone denying them a chance to reach that position in life would inevitably be seen as their worst enemy. Because now they have to live out reality as they always did. Unspecial and completely ordinary.




Zoey arrived at Starlight University with her parents to see if this was the college for her. She was excited despite the neutral look on her face. If she decided to stay here, Zoey would no longer be living with her parents but on her own. For the first time, she'll be staying on her own, caring for herself, and living by herself. No one at all but Zoey Winters and whoever she may or may not invite inside her PRIVATE dorm room.


She had read some five-star reviews online and was secretly excited at the fact that the walls were very soundproof. Starlight University was one of the top universities in the world. The campus seemed like a haven for athletes, a paradise where she could have all the fun and excitement she wanted without having to study her ass off to keep it. All she had to do was make sure she did good while on the track team.


As Zoey and her parents continued their tour of Starlight University, they were immersed in the stunning array of state-of-the-art facilities and luxurious amenities. Each stop brought something new and impressive, leaving Zoey and her family in awe. First on the list were dorms that looked like five-star hotels. The individually keyed bedrooms with solid wood doors and designer carpet caught Zoey's eye immediately.


There was so much room for activities, furniture, her weight-lifting equipment, a computer, a TV, and anything else she wanted to bring! Zoey could tell from her parents' reaction that they were just as amazed as she was. They came from the lower middle class to be able to get something like this… a sight they figured was only for the exclusively wealthy.


They were then taken to the rooftop of the dorms. When Zoey thought about a rooftop, she certainly didn't think about a fucking infinity-edge swimming pool with a sun deck and poolside cabanas on it. There was even a separate area for hot tubs. Where she was from, roofs were typically empty. In this fancy-ass place, roofs were just another area for fun activities. She could see men and women enjoying themselves in the pool, playing around, or just talking while listening to loud music. It wasn't her environment, but she liked having more than one option.


Then, there was this building on campus that the tour guide took them to on a cart. It was called StarHub, a giant building complex with an indoor gym, game rooms, and study rooms. After seeing all of the amazing gym equipment, Zoey wasn't sure about bringing her equipment at home to campus anymore. They had better stuff than her. Although working out in front of a bunch of people would be a new experience, imagine the gains her body stat would get inside this place!


The game rooms were a big miss for her, though, despite her love for games. You would be gaming in close proximity with other gamers. Something that Zoey only had to do a few times for some gaming tournaments her brother signed them up for. It wasn't an experience she liked. Gaming was most comfortable in the comfort of your own room with no one around. She'd have to pass on the game room. And for the study room? Hahahahaha!


As they moved on to Starlight University's dining options, Zoey was amazed by the wide range of choices, from fast food to health-oriented restaurants. They had so many delicious fast food places here. More places than what Zoey could order back home through delivery services like DashBoys or SnackTime. The gang violence really scared off a lot of service dashers from delivering to Krey or in Krey. And Zoey couldn't just ask her parents to drive to the places and pick up food for her. What if they got involved in gang violence just because she was a little fucking hungry? She'd feel fucking bad for like the rest of her life, probably.


The tour guide then mentioned that the 500,000-square-foot indoor and 40-acre outdoor recreation facilities were open to any and all students. The on-campus bowling alley also caught Zoey's attention. She wasn't really interested in bowling, but like she said before. Having a lot of options was a good thing, in her opinion.


Then came the worst part of the tour for Zoey. They learned about the gigantic library on campus and explored it despite Zoey's hesitance. Her mom just seemed eager to explore each and every inch of this fucking place when Zoey was the one coming up here, not her. She didn't wanna be trapped in some funky-smelling library for half an hour while she flirted with the tour guide. Sure, he was a little handsome, but this tour wasn't about him. It was for Zoey! And Zoey hated, no wait, hate is too strong of a word. She did not find studying or reading enjoyable. Unless they were like comics or manga or something. Pictures just made everything better. Sorry, it was just a fact of life. Zoey was sure the bible would be far more popular if it had more pictures in it instead of just words.


But once the most boring part of the tour was over, they still had goodies at this university to show or explain. The tour guide mentioned something about safe rides on campus.


"Our university offers a safe ride program to ensure the safety of our students, especially during late-night hours. The program operates using marked vehicles and trained drivers. You can request a ride by calling a dedicated phone line or using a mobile app. The program runs from evening until early morning, and you may share the ride with other students heading in a similar direction." Miguel explained. "Most students tend to use our safe ride program after returning from the on-campus movie theater, the arcade, or weekly massage sessions.


Zoey was already convinced when she saw her dorm room. There really wasn't any need to throw even more luxuries at her to try and convince her to stay. Fuck, at this point, did she even care about the track and field team? Miguel did not need to try as hard as he did in showing them the good parts of Starlight University. A robot could have done the same thing, and Zoey would still have been seduced.


"Thank you for the great tour, Miguel. We'll certainly send a reply back to your university with our answer." Bruce shook the young man's hand.


"Thank you for coming out and giving us a chance. I hope to see you in the future on campus, Zoey! I'm a big fan!" Miguel waved as they left to go to their car.


"Thanks for supporting me." Zoey felt a little awkward now.


'Do you think he was a fan of your fighting or a fan from track?' Inner Zoey snickered.


'Shut up…' Zoey knew her fame in track was entirely thanks to her fighting career. The only famous people in track were those that won the Olympics, and even then, it was hit-or-miss.


"Zoey, I understand that you're a grown woman who can do whatever she wants, but I'm pleading with you. Please practice safe sex while you're up here." Alicia felt the need to mention it.


"Oh my goddd…" Zoey groaned.


"I'm just saying. This is important, you know. Bruce, tell her." Alicia felt the need to throw her dad into it.


"Don't do anything you'll regret!" He smartly responded.


"I won't… Can we please stop talking about this now?" Zoey did not want to have a sex talk with her parents.


Somehow, she has luckily avoided that conversation growing up. Maybe it was because she never had friends before high school. She was going out with James for a while, but they didn't say anything to her about it during that. Well, whatever! Zoey knew enough about sex. She's seen more than enough of it, growing it on the internet and reading about other people's experiences of it. That was good enough, right?


'We're going to get our brains fucked out!' Inner Zoey shouted in celebration.


'Shut up. No, we're not.' Fantasy and reality were different. Having a bunch of wild platonic sex in college sounded fun and exciting in her head, but adding the realism of her personality ruined that almost immediately.
 
Chapter 166: Everett’s in Trouble?
Amidst the turmoil that had fractured the magji world, the Sinclair estate stood strong as a testament to the chaos that was raging beyond its property. Inside the grand mansion, a different kind of struggle was unfolding. Elizabeth Sinclair, the heiress of the Sinclair family, found herself locked in a battle of a much more personal nature. Her usually vibrant green eyes were clouded with a mix of nausea and annoyance as she stumbled into the luxurious bathroom. Her steps were unsteady. Her body was weighed down by the recent events that had plagued her body.


As she reached the bathroom, a bout of nausea overtook her, and she barely made it to the toilet in time. The sounds of her retching echoed in the room, a stark contrast to the usual elegance that characterized the Sinclair estate. This was a fight Elizabeth could not control, one that left her feeling vulnerable, helpless, and pissed.


Outside the bathroom, concerned servants exchanged worried glances. They had witnessed the bout of sickness that was plaguing their Young Lady and were unsure of its origin. Their first thought was to hire a member of the Star Clan to come take a look at their Young Lady, but she vehemently refused and said it was nothing more than just a cold and that she would get over it. It wasn't unusual of the lady to reproach their concerns, as she was rather stubborn. She'd rather tackle her problems head-on rather than rely on others.


A senior servant approached Lucas Sinclair's study, knocking gently on the door before entering. Lucas, the patriarch of the Sinclair family and a peak A-grade magjistar, looked up from his desk with a mix of confusion and weariness. He had been scrambling to acquire as many pieces remaining of this branch of the OM, a task that weighed down heavily on his shoulders. Lucas wasn't the only one who wanted to snatch up the power void left by Victor Khan's second and final cleansing. All of the factions were attempting to get their piece of the pie. It was mayhem, an underground war to see who could gain the most political standing and power left over.


"Lord Sinclair, I apologize for disturbing you," the servant began, his voice respectful. "It's Miss Elizabeth. She's not well and hasn't been getting better."


Lucas's face scrunched up at the news, his thoughts immediately shifting from matters of the political grab-bag to the well-being of his only daughter. He rose from his desk, his strides purposeful yet weary as he followed the servant through the hallways of the mansion.


Inside the bathroom, Elizabeth's challenging ordeal continued. The sounds of her vomit reached Lucas's ears before he even opened the door. The sight that met his eyes was not the confident, strong young lady he was accustomed to seeing but a fragile figure hunched over the toilet. Her elegance as a member of the Sinclair Family was all but a figment of the past.


He knelt beside her, his hand hovering uncertainly near her back. "Elizabeth," he murmured softly, his voice a mix of worry and empathy. "What's happening?" Elizabeth's pale face turned to him, a mixture of exhaustion and reluctance in her eyes. Another wave of nausea overtook her, and her body convulsed as she retched once again. Amidst her distress, her gaze met her father's, and at that moment, their shared realization struck them both like lightning.


Lucas's mahna pulsed with recognition, a mix of emotions flooding his features. Elizabeth's own realization mirrored his, and her love magji, usually a well of power and strength, surged within her with unprecedented intensity. Lucas had fully grasped the situation after sensing Elizabeth's body with his mahna. A fierce wave of mahna exploded from his body as rage filled his mind. "It was him…That gully! He dares!? My princess! My one and only daughter?!" Lucas walked out of the restroom with hostility flaring off of him.


Another wave of nausea hit Elizabeth, her grip on her phone faltering as she instinctively reached for the toilet once more. She wanted to reassure her father, to convey that it wasn't what he thought, but the sickness held her in its tight grip. Amidst her own struggle, Elizabeth's fingers moved to her phone. Despite the haze of nausea, she managed to type out a message to Everett's sister, her fingers stumbling over the screen. "Protect Everett!!!" the message read, its urgency evident.




At home, Zoey was trolling some losers over the internet and leveling up her Fighting Aura skill at the same time before getting a message on her phone. She frowned as she comprehended the words. Just reading them wasn't enough because it was confusing enough. Why the hell was Everett's girlfriend telling Zoey to protect Everett? It was a shame, but she'd have to spare Michaeljk36 from breaking his monitor from her trolling.


Zoey put on her cursed boxing gloves in preparation for whatever was coming. She rushed throughout the house and ordered her brother to stay in his room along with her parents. Her mom tried to question her, but she really didn't have time. Alicia was thrown into her room on top of the bed as her dad locked the door while she ran to the front door.


"Barrier!" Zoey formed a barrier around her house as she waited for whatever was coming to come.


She could sense a large amount of unrestrained mahna quickly heading in her direction. They weren't trying to hide themselves at all. Zoey started stretching since it's been a while since she's fought anyone who used magji. Ever since she was exiled from the magji world, she's kind of just been living her life in the normal world. She was still friends with her magjistar friends. They just couldn't go out on cases or be seen doing magji around her. Zoey didn't know if she counted as a normal person now or if they were just trying to ignore her existence after almost fucking her over. She hasn't forgotten that shit they put her through. As a petty ass bitch, she was still going to get her payback. One way or another.


Then, the incoming source of danger finally arrived. Several minutes after Everett's girlfriend texted her. Zoey was surprised to see that it wasn't a daemon at all but a magjistar. She didn't recognize the man, but there were few people she'd be able to recognize in the magji world anyway. He looked pissed the fuck off. Wonder what he was mad at her brother for?


"Hello? Can I help you?" Zoey asked with some politeness.


"I have no business with you, Zoey Winters. I am here for that gully you call a brother." Lucas's voice was quiet and demanding as a fierce torrent of emotion raged within him.


"Gully?" This motherfucker did not just use that definitely racist term to refer to her brother. "His name is Everett, Everett Winters." Zoey corrected him.


"My precious little girl, my Elizabeth, has been violated by that little dark beast!" he declared, his fury a palpable force that blew Zoey's hair and clothes back.


"Violated?" Inner Zoey came out. "Are you saying they had sex?" Zoey was a little confused. She knew her brother wasn't a rapist or anything of the sort. Hell, the worst thing she could say about him was that he was a little annoying sometimes because he cared too much. Whenever Zoey was punished after a fight with her mom, he'd come in to check on her when she wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone.


"I'm saying that little worthless human has impregnated my princess! Now stand out of my way while I personally show him the consequences of overstepping his position in this world." Lucas balled his fists, a visible pink aura of mahna surrounding his figure.


Impregnated!? Zoey hasn't even kissed a boy in all eighteen years of her life so far, and her brother has already had sex!? Did thirteen-year-olds move so fast nowadays? Her brother was nothing but a computer potato. There was no way he was the reason for this. It was that girlfriend of his that seduced and tempted her innocent brother!


"You magjistars and your superiority complex…" Inner Zoey clenched her fists while not sure whether to be proud, angry, or envious of her brother getting a headstart over her. "The only way you'll get to him is through me, asshole. I'll do you a favor and help you calm down a little so we can discuss this like normal adults."


"Don't mock me, child!" Lucas kicked off the ground and appeared in front of Zoey with astonishing speed.


Proving that he was a peak A-grade magjistar with his speed. Zoey could barely raise her guard in time to block the heavy fist of a well-trained magjistar. She was sent sliding all the way to the edge of her barrier with a painful ache in her arms. A grin slowly started to form on her face as she measured the power of Lucas. "This might end too soon if I use my magji. Let's see how long you can last against me at half of my full power." Zoey felt the Balance of the World shackling half of her strength as she made her heart oath.


"A mere gully thinks she can stand against the power of love? Do you know how long the Sinclair Family has stood at the top of the magji world?" Lucas glared at the child.


"Not long enough if I never heard about it." Inner Zoey chuckled as she let her arms hang loose at her waist.


Zoey hunched over as she entered her Playful Boxing Style. A complete no-guard style of fighting that would allow her to express herself freely however she wished. It was something she picked up and developed during her delinquent days. She could've used this while fighting in the YFTL, but it wasn't appropriate at the time. Zoey kept this in her back pocket for really fun fights.


"I knew I should've just had her homeschooled instead of trying to fit in with you gullies. You're all insufferable disgusting pieces of filth!" Lucas pushed off the ground and headed toward Zoey at blinding speeds.


His leg whipped out with enough force to break several of her bones if it landed. With a giggle, Zoey simply leaned her head down low, avoiding the kick entirely. Lucas didn't seem finished as he spun after the missed kick and aimed downward with a second kick to bury Zoey six feet under. Zoey leaned back, just narrowly avoiding the A-grade magjistar's follow-up kick. A cut appeared on her cheek as she nearly rammed her fist into Lucas's vulnerable stomach. His eyes widened at her reaction speed, but he was an experienced magjistar. Lucas performed a third spin and countered Zoey's punch with his foot.


The two were sent far away from each other. Zoey was leaning against the barrier she placed while Lucas was near her front door. She grinned at him as she was just getting warmed up. He's already pushed her to use 60% of her full strength in only a few seconds. This was going to be fun.
 
Chapter 167: Lucas vs Zoey!
Beneath the brilliant sun, the stage was set for a one-on-one battle between two magjistars at the peak of their strengths in Zoey's front yard. Lucas Sinclair, his aura radiating with the intensity of his love magji, advanced steadily toward Zoey, who stood ready like a fighting machine. The tranquility of the day seemed almost at odds with the impending battle that hung in the air: gentle breezy wind and warm solar rays.


Lucas struck first, his mahna-charged fist lancing toward Zoey's face with the swiftness born of his uncontrollable hatred for her kind. Zoey's eyes narrowed, her instincts guiding her body into a seamless slip maneuver. The world around her seemed to slow as Lucas's fist grazed the tip of her nose. The breeze of its passage sent her dreadlocks flying in all sorts of directions. She flowed with the motion, her small frame slipping gracefully out of the strike's path but, at the same time, curving her fist to strike with just as much force as he sent toward her.


Undeterred, Lucas followed up with a low kick aimed at Zoey's legs. His foot arced toward her shins, seeking to unbalance her while double-arm blocking Zoey's fist. Zoey responded by altering the direction of her counterpunch toward Lucas's thigh. The kick similarly switched directions and firmly kicked Zoey across the face.


Seizing the opportunity, Lucas pressed forward. He spun and landed another direct kick on Zoey's body. Kick after kick. It seemed like Lucas's strength was only growing. Zoey tried defending or avoiding his blows, but there was a substantial difference between the two at the moment.


Lucas's expression hardened, his love magji intensifying as his emotions surged. He lunged forward with a rapid series of kicks. His kicks were like a flurry of petals caught in a gust, a violent whirlwind. Zoey's Playful Boxing Style took over, her movements a mesmerizing blend of swaying, ducking, and unusual punches. She avoided one kick to the side and slipped under another. The choreography of her defense was as seamless as a performance. Zoey was being pushed hard enough to bring her to her full strength.


Zoey saw an opening – a fractional flaw in Lucas's onslaught. She channeled her mahna, unleashing a series of quick, debilitating strikes. Her fists became a blur as she aimed for Lucas's knees, aiming to weaken his lower body—her punches thrown at unusual angles connected with deadly precision, delivering subtle yet strategic blows that promised cumulative pain.


Lucas staggered slightly, his defenses momentarily compromised. Yet, his love magji continued to surge in response, his determination unwavering. He lunged forward, his arms reaching out in an attempt to crush Zoey with his superior mahna. His fingers caught Zoey's wrist, his grasp strong and unyielding. But Zoey's grappling training kicked in. Her skill and power allowed her to pull the middle-aged man toward herself and capture his waist in a tight hug. As he repeatedly brought his fist down on top of her head, Zoey lifted him up off the ground and, in one swift and devastating moment, buried him head-first into the ground.


She leaped away, rubbing her aching skull. Noting to herself that it was far safer doing a German Suplex from behind than from the front. The better option would've been crushing him with a bear hug till something snapped, or she could've blacked out from too many blows to the head. Though, with Endurance backing her up, Zoey was confident she'd probably come out on top even if this asshole was stronger than her at full power.


Zoey watched as Lucas dug himself out of the hole she buried him in, with blood dripping down his face and flames spewing from his eyes. Now separated, both combatants assessed their options. Zoey's eyes gleamed with a mixture of respect and excitement. To think that he still wanted to keep going. At least he was serious about his daughter, even if he was a racist piece of shit.


She knew that to counter Lucas's love-fueled magji. She needed to dig deeper into her own arsenal. With a subtle shift in the control of her mahna, she prepared to take this a bit more seriously. Although she wouldn't use Twisting Force, there were other non-lethal options she could rely on.


Lucas's eyes bore a mixture of rage and frustration. His love for his daughter fueled his every move, but he sensed the depths of Zoey's power. That dead troublemaker was a decent teacher when he tried. With a resolute exhale, he focused his love magji, his aura intensifying to a blinding hue. His next move was charged with raw intent. His Heartbreaker carried the weight of his emotions.


Zoey's instincts guided her to respond with a display of sheer speed. She unleashed a move from her core fighting style Boxing Series: Infinite Fist, her fists becoming a barrage of blinding afterimages. Lucas's Heart Breaker met her onslaught, a collision of mahna that sent shockwaves all around them. The impact rocked the ground beneath them, each fighter momentarily locked in a battle of titanic force. Zoey's infinitely adding more and more punches to Lucas's singular but overwhelming powerful knee strike headed toward her chest.


Punch after punch was being eaten and devoured by Lucas's attack. Zoey was losing! Haha! She was actually losing in a close combat fight with a magjistar! A single magjistar as well! She didn't think anyone other than Victor would be able to do something like this. Although this guy was a racist piece of shit, Zoey could spare some respect for him as a decent fighter.


Just like she said before, it was time to take things up a notch. As Zoey was quickly being overwhelmed, she slowly transitioned into using one of her magji techniques: Mahna Gathering Bomb! Each time her fist made contact with Lucas's knee, a small portion of his mahna would be stolen, and, as a result, his attack was weakened. The stolen mahna was being gathered in the air above them as they continued their clash against one another.


Lucas gritted his teeth in anger as he broke off the clash and made some distance from Zoey. His chest heaved up and down as he used this opportunity to catch his breath. The two combatants found themselves locked in a brief, tense standoff. The magji barrier shimmered around them, the grass beneath their feet bearing witness to their struggle. Lucas's breathing was ragged, his aura wavering as the strain of his emotional power took its toll. Zoey's stance remained just as steady as it was at the beginning of the fight, her eyes flashing with a mixture of joy and eagerness. Although, she was far more wounded than Lucas was because she started this fight with a handicap.


In that small moment where they locked eyes, the rhythm of their battle ebbed, and it seemed like tensions were beginning to fall. The sun cast a warm glow over the yard. With a guttural growl of frustration, Lucas took a step back, allowing his love magji to subside. Zoey was confused but lowered her fists, her excitement lowering immensely.


Their battle, a clash of strategy, emotion, and strength, had etched itself into the very fabric of their surroundings. The magji barrier, once pulsating with their force, now hummed with a sense of quiet fulfillment. As the breeze stirred the grass the world settled into a calm stillness. The fight was over.


"Victor Khan left a real disgusting abomination behind as his legacy…" Lucas Sinclair grumbled as he realized that going all out to defeat this girl was more trouble than it was worth.


"I do my best." Inner Zoey grinned at the compliment.


"I will never accept that gully brother of yours in my noble family. That tainted abomination in my daughter's stomach will never see the light of day if I have anything to do about it. Consider this farewell, Zoey Winters." Lucas turned to leave.


Only to realize Zoey Winters was standing in front of him with a strangely different appearance. As if summoned by her indomitable will, a brilliant radiance ignited at the center of Zoey's forehead. A vivid light, akin to a starburst in the midst of a cosmic night, radiated outward with an intensity that seemed almost otherworldly. The force of this luminescence thrust Zoey's head backward, her entire form enveloped in an ethereal glow that cascaded across her body like liquid fire.


Yet, even as her head was thrown back, Zoey's legs remained rooted to the earth, the very ground bearing witness to the might she was about to unleash. Her muscles, once compact and unassuming, began to bulge subtly, their contours defined by a newfound vigor. Veins, once hidden beneath her skin, surfaced in a complex network of pulsating energy, each thread a conduit for the overwhelming power that surged within her.


Her hair, seemingly imbued with a life of its own, ascended to the sky as if lifted by an invisible force. These once-tamed locks became a visual representation of the storm within her, a tempest of energy seeking its release. A transformation beyond the physical ensued. The very laws of gravity seemed to lose their grip on Zoey's hair, causing it to rise in defiance as if caught in a perpetual updraft. Her skin, once a canvas of unassuming brown, now bore the signs of her metamorphosis – a ruddy hue that whispered of the tremendous energy coursing through her.


Her pupils, once windows to her soul, disappeared in a sea of blank whiteness. The void in her eyes was a testament to the magnitude of the power she had harnessed, the conscious sacrifice of her normal sight in exchange for the blaze of otherworldly might. In this climactic moment, Zoey's transformation stood as a symbol of her anger and rage at the magji community. It was as if the very fabric of reality had bent to accommodate her, her body and magji intertwining in a symphony of overwhelming force. The air crackled with terrifying energy. This was Overdraft!


Zoey gently placed her palm on Lucas's shoulder. Lucas cried out in agony as his shoulder instantly popped out of place, and his legs were straining to stay rooted to the ground from Zoey's unstoppable power. She looked into his eyes, no longer smiling after hearing his disgusting words. "You're going to leave my niece or nephew alone. If I hear of anything happening to that innocent baby, there will be no more Sinclair Family. Do you remember the Hanma Clan? The Sinclair Family will be just like them. Forgotten and destroyed. Although, your daughter and the 'abomination' in her stomach will be the only evidence of the Sinclair Family. My brother will be able to see his girlfriend and kid whenever he wants. And if anything happens to him, the Sinclair Family will be destroyed. Do I make myself clear, Mr. Sinclair?" Zoey asked.


In the middle of this polite request, Lucas Sinclair was being pressed further and further into the ground as the bones inside his body were being crushed. He screamed, shouted, and yelled while unleashing all of his power, but it was useless to resist. Lucas didn't feel an ounce of love flowing through his heart but a heart-stilling, terrifying fear. Overdraft was a technique that every magjistar worth their salt knew about. But the consequences of utilizing such a technique were too much for the sane magjistar even to consider learning. No one with even a modicum of brain cells would rely on this technique. Not even the bottom-of-the-barrel magjistars who have to survive case by case.


"I asked you a question." Zoey's pupil-less eyes bored into the man.


"I-I-I understand!" This was the true face behind Victor Kahn's legacy…


A freak of nature that could even overwhelm a peak A-grade magjistar like himself… She tossed him toward the barrier after hearing his words. "Go. My only advice to you is to try and become a better person if you want to see the Sinclair Family survive this generation." Lucas didn't turn back as he hobbled his way through the barrier and on the way home.


Zoey sighed as she turned to go back into the house. Now she had to have a talk with her brother and parents about him becoming a daddy at the age of fucking thirteen. Maybe she should take birth control and carry around condoms with her when she gets to college… Although Zoey could afford to raise and take care of a child, she refused to have any children until she was in her thirties, at the very least. The further she was away from her mother's age when she had her, the better.


'We'll also need to teach our nephew or niece about sex education during their teens so they don't turn out like their parents.' Inner Zoey added.


'True. Momma never had a sex talk with Everett or me. It's no surprise things turned out this way. If I weren't a fucking loser, I'd probably be pregnant by now, too, with how little I knew about sex from our schools and parents.' Zoey agreed as she closed the door behind her and relocked her magji gates.
 
Chapter 168: The Meeting Between 2 Families.
The sun climbed higher in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the bustling city. Winters and Sinclairs would be coming together, their lives now connected by the growing life inside of Elizabeth's stomach. Zoey, deciding to be responsible since she was a grown-ass bitch now, had taken the initiative to organize the gathering, driven by the feeling to establish a stronger bond between the two families. Nephew/Niece or not, they were going to be raised in a loving and supportive family if she had something to do about it. Not a struggling family, not a separated family, and not a family that was constantly at war with each other.


Zoey considered herself kind of lucky compared to other people raised by single parents. Bruce didn't show up in her life until Zoey was early in her teens. Before that, she kind of hated her mom. It was only because of her stepdad that she realized how useful it was to have a mom, even if Zoey couldn't relate to that mom with some of the simplest things. Girl stuff was girl stuff. Zoey didn't have enough courage to go to Bruce with her girl shit, even if she somehow felt more comfortable talking with him than the woman who literally raised her from birth. All in all, Zoey thanked God that Bruce wasn't a child predator.


She wasn't religious but yeah. Zoey would've been a full-class meal for Bruce if he was. It's so fucked up how her mom raised her. Although Zoey couldn't entirely blame her mom, she could still feel justified in the way she personally felt about it. It was just the way her culture raised their kids for the most part. Zoey saw it all the time on social media about how other black children are raised with whoopings, no sense of privacy for themselves or their belongings, and other messed up stuff. But it was normal to the previous generation. Maybe they just didn't know better or just didn't understand that children were fucking people too? She honestly couldn't wrap her head around it.


On the way to the meeting place, Zoey had to take her parents through Luminaurora. Her family, who had little to no experience with the magji world, was now going to see the heart of the magji world and all of its inhabitants.


Amidst the vibrant hum of anticipation that wrapped around Luminaurora, Zoey's family found themselves on a magical tour that would witness the good side of the magji world. As they ventured through the heart of this hidden city of magjistars, the enchantment of Luminaurora began to unfurl before their eyes, captivating their senses and leaving them awestruck.


Tink happily led the way as their tour guide, their heart brimming with a blend of excitement and pride. Behind them walked Zoey and her father, Bruce, his eyes wide with a mixture of curiosity and uncontained enthusiasm. Everett, matching his excitement step for step, seemed to radiate an infectious energy that rippled through the atmosphere.


The city streets were adorned with flying newspapers that heralded the latest big news—the death of Victor Khan—an event that seemed to have captured the entire city's attention even months after. The LuminauroraTimes, a publication that held sway over the magji community, had its presence woven into the fabric of the city. Its influence was undeniable, shaping conversations and directing focus like a conductor guiding a symphony.


As they strolled along the bustling streets, Zoey's family found themselves amidst a diverse array of magji races—fairies flitting through the air with iridescent wings, Viperians exuding an air of power as they slithered gracefully, Walkers towering over their surroundings with their shaggy fur and incredible height, and Succubi who seemed to possess an otherworldly beauty that was difficult to look away from.


"Look at that, Dad!" Everett's voice was tinged with awe as his gaze locked onto a group of fairies. His finger pointed upward, tracking the path of the small, humanoid creatures that darted through the air in sync like a group of synchronized swimming teams. Each doing their best to clean up trash, pretty up Luminaurora, or help anyone in need.


"Those are fairies, just like me," Tink proudly explained with a wide smile. "Their jobs are to serve magjistars. We're drawn to magji like bees to flowers."


Everett's excitement seemed to know no bounds as he animatedly watched in awe, "And over there are Viperians. They're strong, venomous, and their bodies are infused with a tangy-like magji Kind of hard to stomach unless you have a preference for it. They're like walking magji powerhouses!" Tink explained next while pointing at a couple of snake people bonding over a cup of something. They had human upper bodies and snake lower bodies.


Zoey's mother, on the other hand, seemed more subdued than usual. Her usual vibrant demeanor had taken on a hint of uncertainty, her eyes darting around as if she was taking in every detail with heightened awareness. Zoey could almost feel her mother's fear, a clear indication of her unfamiliarity with this world of magji wonders. Zoey didn't know how to feel at seeing this.


As they walked further, their path crossed that of a Luminari, a figure adorned with a prismatic aura that could glow with every hue imaginable. The luminous figure seemed to capture the essence of every color, a walking kaleidoscope that painted the world around them with a surreal, dreamlike quality.


"Whoa, they're pretty." Bruce's quiet exclamation captured the sentiment that was echoing within his heart.


Tink's explanation flowed like a river, "They're called Luminari. They can control light through mahna and are a big reason why Luminaurora is so bright. Although you guys probably won't see it, nighttime is when Luminaurora is really alive."


A sense of wonder seemed to blanket the surroundings as they ventured deeper into the magji world. As they continued their journey, they stumbled upon a curious shop, a magjismith's shop. Here, magji tools, creations of the magji world's artisans, lined the shelves. The air hummed with an undertone of mahna as if each tool held a whisper of the magji that had crafted it.


"Magji tools," Tink confidently gestured toward the array of artifacts as if they were made with their own sweat and blood. "The Magjismiths are like blacksmiths in your world. They craft everything from weapons to everyday items, all infused with mahna or magji."


Bruce's eyes danced with fascination as he examined the craftsmanship on display, "Do they accept human money here?" He asked curiously. "Nope," Tink answered with a smile.


And then there were the Daemonic Objects, creations whose purposes often held great power at a dangerous cost. These objects seemed to defy convention, embracing temptation and violence. "Zoey, can you buy me this?" In Everett's hand was a black harp.


"HIYAH!" Tink chopped down on Everett's head with their hand.


Zoey caught the harp before Everett could drop it and returned it to the shelf. "Humans are more susceptible to the control of daemonic objects since you guys have no control over your mahna. Be careful!" Tink warned them.


Zoey pulled her family out of the shop as they were getting mesmerized by more and more daemonic objects. She felt no desire to buy any of them. Why was she only learning now that Daemonic Objects had that feature? Hell, she was surprised magjistars even knew that much about something with the name Daemonic in it.





Anyway, the meeting between the Winters and Sinclair was set at a cozy and neutral location, a quaint café nestled in the heart of Luminaurora. The air was tinged with the rich aroma of freshly brewed something and the sweet scent of pastries, mingling to create an atmosphere that seemed to wrap everyone in a welcoming embrace. Soft old-timey tunes played in the background, weaving a melody that accompanied the hum of conversations and occasional laughter. Outside, small tables were arranged under the shade of colorful umbrellas, providing an inviting space for customers to gather and enjoy the outside weather.


As the appointed hour neared, the anticipation grew thicker, an invisible thread connecting the hearts of those who were about to meet. Both families arrived, each step carrying a mixture of anxiety and apprehension. Zoey's heart wasn't racing all that much.


In a private room of their own that could fit all of them, Zoey sat flanked by Everett, Bruce, and Alicia, their presence being necessary as she couldn't do this family meetup alone. Tink floated near her hair. Everett hid behind her on the edge of the couch, using her status as a strong scary magjistar to ground him as he observed the approach of the Sinclairs. Elizabeth walked at the forefront, her pouting face syncing well with her family members. Lucus Sinclair, the authoritative head of the Sinclair Family, strode with a measured grace. His face and body were uninjured. Beside him, Charlotte Sinclair exuded a sense of quiet strength, her kind eyes harboring a wealth of wisdom earned through years of experience. William Sinclair was the only Sinclair member smiling.


As the two families drew closer, very few smiles were exchanged, the air filled with the melody of awkwardness and discomfort. Everyone entered the private room and took a seat where they felt comfortable.


"Sinclairs. We are the Winters. I am Zoey Winters, ex-magjistar and student of Victor Khan." Inner Zoey introduced herself.


"I'm Tink! Zoey's best friend and Everett's regular friend!!" Tink introduced themselves.


"I am Bruce Murphy, just a regular ole human. I work with data software." Bruce sheepishly explained.


"My name is Alicia Winters…" Alicia took a good look at each member of the Sinclair family, especially the young vixen who seduced her only son.


"Everett Winters…" Everett made sure to stick close to Zoey as Elizabeth's dad glared at him.


"Lucus Sinclair, Patriarch of the Sinclair Family, a pure-blooded A-grade magjistar." Lucus glared holes into Everett's shaking frame.


"Charlotte Sinclair, A-grade magjistar and Madam of the Sinclair Estate." Charlotte gave a polite bow.


"William Sinclair, D-grade magjistar and famous waste of the Sinclair Family." He smiled.


"Elizabeth Sinclair, B-grade magjistar, heir to the Sinclair Family, and mother of Everett Winter's child." Elizabeth dropped a nuke for conversations to begin.


"Is it smart to go through with this pregnancy when she's so young?" Alicia spoke up as she reigned herself in from saying what she really wanted to say to the little slut.


"What are you saying?" Charlotte questioned, meeting Alicia's eyes.


"Maybe we should think of other alternatives instead of going through and supporting this pregnancy." Alicia tried to convince the slut's parents.


"I'm keeping our child!" Elizabeth shouted as she caught on, her magji coming to life with a burst of pink aura.


"Mom, what the hell?" Inner Zoey looked at her mom in disapproval. An abortion? Was she fucking for real?


"It's safer for the girl and the children's futures." Alicia didn't give up. Why should her baby be attached to this soul-sucking succubus of a girl?


"I'm surprised to say that I agree. To think I'd be willing to agree with a Winters… Maybe you all aren't as incorrigible as I thought." Lucus spoke up.


"No! No! No!" Elizabeth shut down that avenue for them, her magji growing stronger by the second.


"Elizabeth, control your magji, or you might harm the baby's development." Charlotte sternly warned her.


Charlotte's words of concern worked on Elizabeth when she realized she could hurt her child. Almost instantly, her love magji was reigned in and no longer pressured those within the room. She started taking calm and relaxing deep breaths. Zoey used her mahna to protect her family from Elizabeth's show of magji.


"Looks like the baby ain't getting killed, so what do we do now?" William's voice was cheery as he rested his head in his hand.


"Could we not just support the children and try to help them the best we can?" Bruce softly added his input.
 
Chapter 169: A Pretty Productive Meeting?
"Bruce, they're fucking thirteen! They're having grown-ass sex, and there's a goddamn baby on the way! I'm going to be a grandmother!" Alicia's voice pierced through the room.


Bruce's response was calm and measured, "You are right, but it has already happened, and the children don't seem unhappy about it." He spoke slowly, almost as if trying to navigate a treacherous terrain.


Zoey imagined it as if he was talking to a child. It would be humorous if her mom wasn't completely serious about this whole thing. Not that Zoey wasn't taking this seriously, but the fact her dad had to talk down to her mom like this was embarrassing and funny. It was upsetting, honestly.


Amid the brewing storm, Elizabeth turned to Everett, her voice carrying an uncertain note, "Everett, do you want to have this baby?"


Everett's response was nonchalant, "I don't mind."


"Everett Benton Winters!" Alicia redirected her intense emotions toward her youngest.


Everett's retort was sharp, his voice uncharacteristically raised, "What's the big deal? It's just a baby. We're rich enough to take care of another mouth. I don't get why you're freaking out, Mom!"


Which was a rare occasion in the Winter household. The voice raising was saved for Zoey and Alicia. Mostly Alicia and rarely Zoey. Bruce didn't raise his voice unless he was being supportive. Everett never liked it when his mom raised her voice, so he rarely raised his voice.


Alicia's response was more of an explosion than a sentence, "It's not just about money; it's about caring and bringing a new life into this world! It's about being responsible, even when you don't want to be! You won't have time for your games or your tournaments or anything you used to find fun!"


"Quit projecting your failures on Everett." Inner Zoey defended her brother.


"Excuse me?" Alicia turned her highly strung emotions at Zoey.


She looked at Zoey with a look that would've made her shrivel with fear. Before she got the box, that is. It was a look that promised punishment in the near future if she didn't agree and follow Alicia's orders. Inner Zoey stared into her mom's eyes and clearly repeated herself. "Everett won't turn out like you. He'll be a great parent. He'll have people that love him and support him while he's taking care of his child. I'll even babysit if I have to." Zoey felt something rising inside of her. Years upon years of buried trauma from her mom's crap parenting were boiling, wanting to explode.


"I did my fucking best to take care of you two! I had no one to rely on but myself! I worked two-three jobs just to feed you two! And this is how you treat me?!" Alicia made it all about herself, just like she always does.


Inner Zoey couldn't take it any longer, "This isn't about you! It was never about you! Stop playing the victim! This is about Everett and Elizabeth! Can't you see beyond yourself and realize that the world doesn't revolve around you?"


As if on cue, Alicia's emotions spilled over, tears streaming down her face. Zoey's patience for her mother's emotional displays was wearing thin. She held her nose bridge, a mix of frustration and helplessness contorting her features. Alicia's sobs filled the room, but Zoey found herself unable to muster any sympathy.


"The baby is staying. I'll hit anyone who has any problems with that. And this is the end of our first meeting…" Zoey declared.


William, ever the provocateur, added his own commentary with a smirk, "A productive first meeting between families."


"Don't push me, William." Inner Zoey glared at William as the Sinclair Family started to leave.


"Thank you, Sister-in-law…" Elizabeth said on her way out.


Zoey ignored it for the most part. The little temptress was the root cause of all of this by sinking her little claws into her innocent little brother. He was nothing more than a cute little hermit. An innocent hermit who was more than happy to spend days on end just clicking and clacking on his keyboard and computer. Whatever… Zoey would rather not be in this position at all, but Everett has said his piece, and Elizabeth has said her piece. All she had to do was help them out to the best of her ability.


As the family meetup concluded and the two families began to leave the café, the Winters Family encountered something strange. Unbeknownst to them, a complex circle made of intricate symbols and lines began to shimmer and glow with a soft, eerie light beneath their feet. A bright flash of light blinded them as they didn't understand what was going on. Shocked gasps and yells came from the Winters Family, completely confusing them.


Zoey was not in the mood for any type of shit right now. She activated Overdraft and was ready to pound anyone or anything that was willing to involve her family. As her eyes recovered from the bright light, she saw a large group of young magjistars standing in front of her. Some smiled, some were posing, and the others looked angry.


"Listen, I don't know why you involved my family in this, but I'm only going to tell you this one time. Let us go, and I'll play with you all another time. Isn't there a rule about not involving family or something in the magji world?" Zoey asked.


"Nope. That's not a thing!" Tink happily added, not concerned in the slightest.


"Heh, you should've thought about this when you decided to involve our families with your little prodigy hunt." One of them snarked.


"Do you know how hard my father forced me to train after that day?" One seemed filled with rage.


"These are the consequences for defying the Connate Faction, gully!" Another one shouted.


A group of prodigious magjistars, young and brimming with ambition, emerged from the shadows. Their eyes were sharp with wrath as they assessed the individuals before them. A spike of anger rushed up Zoey's spine as she recognized the faces of some of these prodigies. They were from the prodigy hunt she went on with Victor, and these fuckers still haven't gotten over it?


It looks like there was no need for prodigies in the OM if they had the time to set up a fucking ambush for someone that was exiled from the magji community. Sure, she was here, but she wasn't like working for the OM anymore. All of these assholes had the time to be here and do this for her. Over one little fucking lost. They were willing to involve her family in this petty shit.


'I told you we should've torn this place to the fucking ground.' Inner Zoey dug her claws into Zoey's weak spot.


'It's not what Victor would've wanted…' Zoey softly argued.


'Do you think he would've wanted your family to be in danger?' Inner Zoey retorted with spice.


'I'll… deal with it…' Zoey could feel herself being tempted by the deepest part of herself.


"Stay behind me," Zoey told her family.


The prodigies slowly surrounded Zoey and her family. Zoey saw little need to hold back against people willing to threaten or hurt innocent people. Non-magji people, at that. If these were what the magji world considered prodigies, they were better off without them.


"Attack!" Someone yelled.


"Combo Volume I: Combo Time!" Zoey wasn't kidding around.


They really didn't hesitate to attack her family with magji… Zoey vanished in the sights of most as she appeared near the magjistar, rushing toward her family. He manifested a large blade of ice and swung it toward her mom. In an instant, Zoey shattered the sword into pieces of ice. Her fists landing on his chest forced his body to dent inward.


Right upper chest, left upper chest, right middle abdomen, left middle abdomen, right lower abdomen, to left lower abdomen. Almost instantaneously, the bones in his body were broken as Zoey grabbed him by the face and tossed him toward the female prodigy kicking toward her brother. The ice magjistar was sent flying into the kick as Zoey blinked behind the high-flyer. As the girl's foot sunk into the already broken ice magjistar, Zoey grabbed her from behind and suplexed her directly into the concrete ground. Her neck nearly snapped if the sound of the crash was anything to take note of.


Zoey circled around her family, brutally crippling or nearly murdering anyone who was brave enough to charge at her or her family. It wasn't until crying, groaning, and moaning plagued the battlefield that the prodigies understood that close combat wasn't an option. So, they began firing ranged magji. To Zoey's frustration, they did it while surrounding her instead of all from one direction.


In her desperation to protect her family from harm, she hugged her family before blinking away to avoid the magji attacks. Lightning, fire, water, sound, and all sorts of other magji were used. Zoey unlocked several more of her sealed magji gates, raising her power to an all-new level but at the same time straining her body more than ever.


At this point, Zoey was nothing but a blur as she blitzed her way through all of the prodigies. One unlucky prodigy suffered a vicious punch to the face that was damaging enough to knock them flat off their feet and bury them head-first. There was a genius that took a blow to the side, and his body lurched like a shrimp before becoming an art piece in the wall. It didn't take long before a majority of the prodigies were beaten down and unable to get up.


The survivors fled with magji tools suited for escape. While the rest took a nap for the time being. Unfortunately for them, Zoey didn't know the number for the magji ambulance, nor did she particularly care to do so. She led her family out of the dark building while she still had control over her body despite the severe muscle tears and internal injuries plaguing her all over her body.


Tink tried to help with the magji they knew was suitable for healing, but that magji was meant for small injuries like cuts and stuff. To remedy this, Tink activated Overdraft of their own to gain more mahna to heal Zoey with as she led them out of Luminaurora and back home. A horribly aching pain plagued Tink's body, but they didn't surrender to the pain as they healed Zoey, knowing the pain she was going through was ten times worse than what they were going through.


'We need to destroy it to the ground!!! There's nothing worth keeping here!' Inner Zoey continued to tempt Zoey.


'It hurts…' There was no part of Zoey's body that didn't hurt right now. It hurt to walk, it hurt to breathe, it hurted really, really badly!!! Tears flowed down Zoey's eyes as Bruce lifted her up and gave her a piggyback ride once they made it out of Luminaurora.


'I'll uh… talk to you when you're sleeping…' Inner Zoey could tell this wasn't a good time.
 
Chapter 170: The Life of an Injured Gal.
A giant 50-foot version of Zoey could be seen rampaging through Luminaurora. Daemonic fire-breathing hellhounds from her hands unleashed purplish-black flames across the magji city. Her feet stomped and crushed anything unluckily enough to be caught in her path. She laughed as she saw the magjistars rise up in defiance to protect their city. Pathetic spells reached her gigantic body, doing nothing to halt her destruction of this infuriatingly backward society. Sometimes, she would hesitate seeing the innocent magji races fleeing or suffering damages from her attack, but with the sea of spells constantly flying at her, it was easy to take her mind off of such things.


"You damn gully! We should've killed you when we had the chance!" A survivor shouted.


"A gully should have never been allowed into our society in the first place!" A magjistar firing a fire spell at her yelled.


"This monster should've been given to the Learned Faction to dissect! Gullies aren't supposed to be able to wield magji in the first place!" A fellow wearing glasses muttered while healing injured survivors.


A smaller version of Zoey could be seen standing on her shoulder, constantly shouting into her ear. "They killed Victor. They've been trying to kill you all this time. They even tried to kill your family the other day! How much longer are you going to sit by and let them walk all over you like some little bitch?! We have all this power, all this potential, and you're just going to waste it?! Break them all! We'll build a new Organization of Magjistars. One that will be better suited for good, kind people like us. One that doesn't kill and try to hurt the people you care about." She tempted her further. "But first, we need to raze everything that this place stood for into the ground. Before creation comes destruction, remember?"


The giant version of Zoey looked at what remained of the Luminaurora. The desperate survivors fleeing to the best of their ability, the remaining Peacekeeping Order fighting to the last man while insulting her with their racist remarks, and those from the Connate Faction and Learned Faction using everything in their arsenal to put her down. "Who knows who they'll take from you next? It could be Bruce, it could be Everett, or it could even be your new little niece or nephew…" Small Zoey continued. "Do you think they would spare any one of them if given the chance to hurt them or use them against us?" Small Zoey pointed at the magji cop, hurling insults at her while doing his utmost to kill her.


Giant Zoey could see a myriad of expressions looking up at her. It wasn't until she was blasted in the gut with a combined spell from the Learned Faction and Connate Faction that she got closer to her decision. They cheered at the success of their attack. Zoey was knocked to her ass from the impact of the spell. Their shouting and cheers to kill her, finish her, and destroy everything that was related to her reached her ears.


Big Zoey raised her fist in anger but hesitated just before swinging in their direction. Small Zoey couldn't allow this to happen. Tiny Zoey was just about to bring up images of what the magjistars would do to her family if they found them without her around but felt her influence weakening.


"Fuck… I ran out of damn time…" Little Zoey cursed in frustration.




Zoey woke up to the sound of her alarm blaring at five in the morning. She yawned in anger as her sleepless streak was broken once again. The first time it happened was during the joint case, the second time was after the trial, and this was the third time! Why did sleeping have to feel so damn good?! That brief frustration erased the faint memories of whatever dream she just had. It didn't feel like a nightmare, but it didn't feel like it wasn't as happy as a normal dream either.


She sighed as she felt the terrible ache and painful spasms of her muscles screaming as she stretched. The only damn thing she could train when she was injured like this was her mind. Finals were coming up soon, and their results would be sent to the colleges of their choice. Not that Zoey was worried about which college would accept her. It was probably harder to find a college that wouldn't accept her when they learned about her background besides her grades.


Training magji was out of the question because magji was linked to her body's state. Magji uses the body as a pathway. An injured body makes it more likely for magji to injure the body further or have her magji go out of control. As a fighter, Zoey knew the importance of properly resting. While she had the Box to cheat a bit for her, Zoey still couldn't push her body as much as she wanted to. Pretty damn close, but she didn't have unlimited energy.


Zoey spent the rest of the morning reluctantly studying since she was already up. There was always some fucking test or quiz even when they were like a week or two away from Graduation. It wasn't until around ten in the morning that she received a text from Alexander inviting her to come study for finals with him and Lindsay. She didn't know why in the world was this cute bastard inviting her for something they both knew she didn't enjoy doing. But she was more than thankful to have someone by her side to distract her while she suffered.


She was really good at complaining. Maybe it was a part of her generation or something, but it felt good to complain. Even when she was only being slightly inconvenienced, like it wasn't even anything major, it could be like someone slightly bumping into her, apologizing, and then going about their way. She could use that incident as motivation to whine about the degeneracy of today's youth, and no one could stop her. Free speech was really amazing when you think about it.


Alexander and Lindsay lived in fancy ass apartments in Krey instead of living with their families in Luminaurora for some reason. Zoey didn't know how they managed to convince the landlord to rent out to some kids, but money was a superpower of its own. The money she got from daemon cases was no joke. Maybe they flashed enough cash, and the landlord just decided to let them be despite their age.


Back when she was a poor bitch, there were probably only a few things she wouldn't be able to turn a blind eye to with enough money flashed in her face. Zoey sighed. Money was truly one of the greatest things in the world and the cruelest villain. She used to be a part of the eat-the-rich crowd, but now that she was rich, it was an entirely different story. No longer did her stomach hunger for the green dolla bills of the wealthy.


As Zoey took a riding app on the way to the richy rich apartment complex, she listened to music on the way there. When she approached her friend's upscale apartment building, she was not too surprised by the modern and stylish exterior. The building's architecture is sleek and contemporary, with large glass windows that reflect the city lights. A doorman stood at the entrance, offering a friendly nod as she walked in.


Entering the building, Zoey stepped into a lobby that was more like a chic lounge. There are comfortable couches and trendy artwork on the walls. The atmosphere is casual yet sophisticated, with upbeat trending music playing softly in the background. A digital kiosk allowed visitors to announce themselves, and there was a small café corner with coffee and snacks.


She headed to the elevator and was greeted by a touch screen that let her select her friend's floor. The elevator had an urban, minimalist vibe, and the ride was quick and smooth. Zoey arrived at the 18th floor, and as the doors opened, she was met with a corridor lit by modern LED lights that changed colors subtly.


Lindsay opened the door dressed in something a lot more fashionable than what Zoey was wearing to her surprise… She wore some high-waisted, tailored trousers paired with a tucked-in button-up blouse in a muted yellow color. The blouse had a subtle pattern of small stars, and she stepped into a living space that perfectly reflected their youthful luxury. The glasses with a slightly oversized frame didn't dissuade from the cool beauty look she was giving off.


"Hello, Zoey." She greeted her in that serious voice she always had.


"Hey, Lindsay. Nice outfit." Zoey complimented.


Zoey was wearing a sleeveless tank top made of a soft and breathable fabric for her girls and during training. The tank top had a scoop neckline and fit her comfortably. Paired with the tank top were some black leggings. The leggings fit closely to her legs and were made of a comfortable fabric that allows for easy movement. They were a solid black and showed off her nice perky little butt pretty well. For shoes, she just had a pair of sneakers. The sneakers had a sporty design and provided support and cushioning for her feet.


"Thanks… you too?" The bitch worded it as a question. So they weren't close enough to be honest with each other yet, huh?


"Mhmm." Zoey made her way inside the apartment.


Inside the apartment, Zoey saw bean bags and plush couches that invited her ass to lounge on them as soon as possible. The sun brightly shined through the large windows, lighting up the room. They also provided a view of the city below, and there was even a hammock hanging on the balcony.


There was a mini-fridge stocked with an assortment of sodas, energy drinks, and water. Snacks were spread across the apartment in various places. The entertainment setup was a centerpiece. A large TV that was hooked up to a gaming console, surrounded by bean bags and floor cushions for comfortable lounging.


"Zoey! You made it!" Alexander greeted her from the living room, playing a video game. "I was scared you weren't going to come because of how much you hate studying."


It was a rather surreal sight to see magjistars living it up in such a modern setting. She still held a grudge against most magjistars, but Lindsay and Alexander weren't included in that. They haven't done anything wrong to her and have always treated her well. Sure, they still had their faults as magjistar-raised people, but everyone had little faults like that. You can't control the environment you're raised in.


"I gotta pass finals if I want to graduate," Zoey explained.


"I don't think the school would be willing to force the local supercelebrity into repeating the 12th grade even if you just didn't show up anymore." Alexander laughed.


"I'd rather not take my chances." Even if Zoey knew Alexander was right.


"Now that Zoey is here, let's begin studying. We can play after we finish." Lindsay stood in front of the giant TV hung across the wall.


"Awh! Lindsay! Come on! Just wait until I die, please!" Alexander moved his head to try and get a better view of his character. "We have all afternoon to study and play!" He argued.


Lindsay rolled her eyes as she stepped out of the way. While she'd loved to get their studies out of the way, she supposed there was no reason to be in such a hurry to do so. She took a seat on one of the XL bean bags and scrolled through her phone. Zoey did the same, sinking herself into the comfortable bag chair and almost immediately falling asleep from how soft it was.


'A quick nap wouldn't hurt. I'm still an injured patient…' She reasoned to herself as her eyelids drooped.
 
Chapter 171: Hanging with Magji Friends!
"So, like, are you two living together?" Zoey asked the question that was racing in her mind.


That would be so cool. Like Zoey didn't know if these two were fucking or just crushing, but like could you imagine living with someone you weren't averse to fucking? Like you're literally next door from each other. She couldn't see how they would be able to keep their hands off of each other.


They could be fucking in each other's beds, on the bean bags, the couch, the kitchen table, the kitchen, the bathroom, the hallway, the closet, and shit, if they're feeling risky enough, just outside their doorway in the hallway. It sounded so sweet. The freedom of it all blew Zoey's mind. And in this rich ass place, Zoey knew they had insulated walls or something similar to block out sounds. They could be as loud as they wanted and do whatever they wanted!


If Zoey wasn't going to live on campus at Starlight University, she would definitely start to think about getting a place of her own. Sure, she was the hugest fucking virgin in the world or whatever, but still! That didn't mean she would be one forever. When she gets her cool-ass boyfriend or fuck buddy, she'll be able to… Actually, maybe she shouldn't show off how much of a freak she is to whoever might be the lucky boy to take her virginity…


'Fuck that shit.' Inner Zoey protested. 'We're fulfilling as many fantasies as we can with that lucky fuck. Who knows when we'll get the chance to do it again?'


'But we're rich! We can have like any pick of guys we want, right? As long as they're a good fuck, I might even keep a useless one.' Zoey inwardly laughed.


'Hmm. That's a good point. We're a rich, capable bitch who can take care of herself without the need of a man… I guess we can kind of do whatever we want, huh? We have so many options!' Inner Zoey started to realize.


"What? No!" Lindsay was the first to respond in a surprisingly harsh rejection.


"Nah, she stays on the floor below me." Alexander didn't seem to take offense to the question like someone else.


Zoey might've stumbled upon something…


"I was just wondering. I mean, we are adults now. And rent do be expensive…" Zoey continued.


"You know very well that we get paid more than enough to be self-sufficient." Lindsay adjusted her glasses.


"Doesn't hurt to save some money. We are about to go to college soon and take care of ourselves by ourselves…" Inner Zoey picked up on Lindsay's anxiousness.


"A girl and a boy that aren't related shouldn't share a place together! It's completely inappropriate." Lindsay crossed her arms.


"We're adults, Lindsay." Zoey reminded her.


"Regardless!" Lindsay stood strong.


"Besides, just because a man and a woman live together doesn't mean they have to do inappropriate things together. They could just share a place and pay the rent together." Zoey added.


"True. They could be great friends. Like you and me." Alexander smiled while pointing at himself and Lindsay.


"I suppose you aren't incorrect…" Lindsay took a moment to think about their words.


"Do you think a man and woman can't be friends without doing nasty stuff?" Zoey had to fight herself to keep a grin from appearing on her face.


"I didn't say that!" Lindsay defended herself.


"You kind of hinted at it, though." Zoey needled her.


"Why are we even talking about this!? We should be studying! Zoey, stop distracting us! We can talk about this later." Lindsay tried to take control of the situation.


"Come on, we've been studying for hours. We can afford to take a short chit-chat break." Inner Zoey explained.


"I ordered some pizza on DashBoys." Alexander knowingly or unknowingly helped Zoey out.


Lindsay let out an audible sound of frustration as she glared at the two of them. Inner Zoey literally had to hold Zoey's lips to keep them from turning up into a smile. It felt like she was trolling Lindsay but in real life. This was kind of exciting…


"But, like, seriously, you don't think a man and woman can just be pals even if they're living together? Like what if you and Alexander were living together? Do you think you'd have sex with him or something just because you're living together?" Zoey didn't hold back.


"I'm not talking about this, and if you continue, I'll leave." Lindsay put up her ultimatum.


Zoey inwardly sighed as she had to give up. There was nothing she could do if Lindsay was going to rage quit. It was fun while it lasted, though. She could barely remember the last time she'd seen Lindsay on the backfoot.


"Fine." Zoey agreed. She didn't wanna ruin the mood by teasing Lindsay too much.


Inner Zoey wanted to go further. She wanted to pressure Lindsay. Maybe she should've said something like, "I'd probably have sex with Alexander if we lived together. I mean, he's cute. But that doesn't mean we still couldn't be friends. Just friends who occasionally have sex with each other." If she said this, she did not know how Alexander would react though.


If he reacted negatively, it would ruin the whole vibe, honestly. It was probably for the best that she didn't say that. Zoey was not a good gambler. Fixing social situations was not one of her skills.


"Starlight University… Isn't that the college we're going to, Lindsay?" Alexander suddenly remembered.


"Yes…" Lindsay was slightly in disbelief that he was asking her this question. Did he really forget which college he was going to?


"I didn't think that magjistars would go to college too," Zoey stated.


"Normally, we don't. Most magjistars only go to school till the end of high school before starting their career in the magji world." Lindsay explained.


"Why did you two choose to go to college?" Zoey wondered.


"I was going to work under my father and grandpa in the magji world, but I have kind of grown to like the human world…" Alexander sheepishly rubbed the back of his head.


"My reasons aren't too different from Alexander's. The non-magji world is fascinating, and I believe holds a great amount of potential to change the magji world for the better. While I'm going to university, I also plan to join the government branch of the OM as an intern." She shared.


"Don't tell them you're friends with me. You'll have a hard time rising up if you do that." Zoey advised.


"I'll… take that into consideration…" Lindsay seriously decided to hide anything in her background involved with Zoey.


"I'm like public enemy #1, and recently, did you know those Connate Faction prodigies I beat up a long time ago tried to hurt me and my family?" Zoey shared.


"What?!" Alexander exclaimed with a look of anger on his cute little face.


"Yeah, well, I had some business in the magji world with my family, and when we were leaving, we were ambushed," Zoey told the story.


"Are they okay? Is that why you've been looking like it hurts to do everything all this time?" Alexander pointed out.


"Everyone but me is fine. I had to use Overdraft in its upper stages just to make sure they were all safe." Zoey sighed. "Everything seriously hurts…" Even now, there was a constant pain all over, even when just breathing.


"Overdraft…" Lindsay softly gasped as she heard Zoey utter the name of the forbidden magji technique.


"Well, it's good that your family is okay." Alexander let out a relieved sigh.


"..." Zoey narrowed her eyes at him.


Missing Zoey's hint to show concern for her, too, Alexander clenched his fist. "If you ever need help, don't feel afraid to call me! I'll back you up whenever!" Alexander somewhat made up for his ignorance with this touching statement.


"How fast are you nowadays?" Zoey wondered.


"I'm looking to get a tattoo that says Fast as Lightning on my chest." He grinned.


"I don't think… that'll be a good idea," Lindsay spoke up, to Zoey's surprise. Zoey agreed with Lindsay.


But Zoey only thought it wouldn't be good as a tattoo because she was a sexual deviant. Could it be that Lindsay was thinking that way too? No way, right? But it would be super funny if Lindsay played this super serious bookworm girl most of the time just to be an undercover freak like Zoey!


"Maybe just an image of a lightning bolt could work better," Zoey suggested.


"That would be more fitting. The symbol of lightning would be more catching than just words." Lindsay nodded.


Alexander agreed with their suggestion as the pizza finally arrived. The trio enjoyed their junk food as they turned on some shows on Alexander's massive TV. Think of it like a baby version of the screen at the movies. That's the type of TV that Alexander had in his home. Zoey was thinking about buying this big ass TV at her place, but she rarely watches TV unless her friends are over. It would be a waste of money when her TV now worked perfectly fine and could satisfy herself and her friends.


"I'm never leaving the human world…" Alexander said before burping.
 
Chapter 172: Doing Cool Stuff with Magji Friends.
As the trio prowled the luminous streets of Luminaurora, Lindsay's keen senses picked up a subtle shift in the atmosphere. The city's ambient glow seemed to dim ever so slightly as she glanced to her left. There, emerging from a cafe, was a group of regular young adults, seemingly no different from the everyday crowd. Their casual attire and carefree demeanor showed the remarkability of the Star Clan's healing prowess. She knew they were the Connate Faction prodigies they had been tracking.


Instinctively, Lindsay discreetly signaled to her companions, Alexander and Zoey, to prepare for confrontation. They had been searching for a while for this moment, but the real thing felt entirely different. The stakes were higher, and the adrenaline surged through their veins as they prepared for battle.


The Connate Faction prodigies, who were just regular young adults, went about their day after leaving the cafe. They were chatting, laughing, and joking with each other down the street. It was clear that they thought nothing about their failed attack earlier in the week.


With the tension mounting, Lindsay's heart raced as she knew this was the moment they had been searching for. Lindsay made the first move, pulling out her wand and reciting a spell. Lindsay sent out a quick, freezing ray from her wand.


The Connate Faction prodigies were unable to react as Lindsay struck from the shadows. But now that they were frozen into statues, she was confused about how to proceed. If it were a daemon, she would break them into pieces. But killing a fellow magjistar? Even if they were the type of magjistars she refused to allow in her organization when she became Head of Magji, it was impossible for her to follow through and actually kill another human being.


Luckily or unluckily for her, the choice was taken from her. Several rocks empowered with mahna were thrown at their incapacitated and frozen bodies. The Connate Faction prodigies were shattered into ice statue pieces. Zoey let out a small smile at revenge despite the major ache in her arm. Payback was a bitch, wasn't it?


"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" Lindsay exploded in rage at Zoey, making her complicit in murder!


"What?" Zoey looked Lindsay in the face.


"I didn't sign up to kill people! Do this on your own, I'm not helping you anymore!" Lindsay started to walk off.


Zoey just shrugged before looking at Alexander as several people began to look at them. Before going on this Round Two prodigy hunt, they all disguised themselves in animal masks. So, unless they were de-masked, no one could tell who they were. "Are you out, too?" Zoey asked him.


"I'm a little less lenient on people willing to hurt my friends and their family." Alexander rubbed the back of his mask. "I'll try and soothe things over with Lindsay after we're done. She probably didn't think about how you felt having to defend your family from those guys." He tried to excuse her behavior.


Zoey was relieved she could count on Alexander… "Thank you…" Zoey softly told him. He didn't know, but she was very worried that he would turn his back on her, too. She wondered if he would choose the magjistars over his friendship with her, but then again, she wasn't asking him to murder anyone. Just help her get a little payback.


Maybe she was a little out of line for killing those guys after Lindsay froze them… But did she regret doing so? Mostly no. Just a little because of the way it made Lindsay feel, but Lindsay was always a little sensitive. Did she really think she could become Head of Magji if she can't even handle killing people who deserve it?


They were willing to hurt and kill a family of non-magji people just to get back at her for beating them up! Zoey didn't even cripple any of them! They just lost a fight and couldn't handle it. No matter what anyone said, Zoey felt 100% justified in her actions.





Alexander and Zoey continued with the prodigy hunt, both disguised with animal masks and roaming the streets of Luminaurora. Their disguises, though far from perfect, helped conceal their identities. Zoey's mask was that of a cute polar bear, and Alexander had a cheetah mask. It was a crude attempt at anonymity, but it was good enough as long as they avoided getting their mask taken off. Their mission was clear: to hunt down the Connate Faction prodigies who had ambushed Zoey and her family. They've been hunting since early morning. Zoey used this chance to look over Alexander's progress as a magjistar since she was injured and didn't want to worsen her injuries. Although, it seemed like he didn't need much help from her Teaching-wise.


In the time she's been going off on her solo-dolo, he's already ranked up to a B-grade magjistar, leaving Zoey in the dust. When she was still a magjistar, she was a D-grade magjistar. No one was willing to recommend her to climb up, so she was stuck at the lowest grade as a magjistar, no matter how many cases she successfully solved. She wasn't saying he could beat her in a fight. Zoey was just acknowledging his progress since the last time they fought with each other.


On the account of Alexander hunting the prodigies in Zoey's place since this morning, the Peacekeeping Order was also on the hunt to apprehend them for making a public disturbance. Unfortunately for them, and luckily for Alexander and Zoey, the public security was not in a good place right now for some reason. Alexander could grab Zoey and speed away before the Peacekeeping Order could trap them or surround them. His lightning magji was very, very amazing in Zoey's opinion.


"All the factions are like fighting to take what's left of The Council after Victor's you-know…" Alexander explained.


"So that's why no one really cares what we're doing," Zoey said.


"Yep. Pretty lucky for us." Alexander grinned.


With him and his lightning magji, they could scour the city at impressive speeds looking for any vulnerable out-and-about Connate Faction prodigies. Although he wasn't averse to killing them, Alexander still just left them with more severe injuries than any outright kills. Any spotted prodigy would be flash-kicked across the skull at speeds few could react to. This was enough to instantly incapacitate anyone who didn't have an impressively strong body, which was a majority of magjistars.


'Maybe we should've learned lightning magji…' Zoey discussed with herself.


'Combo Magji is superior.' Inner Zoey instantly shut her down.


'It still would've been pretty cool…' Lightning was badass.


'No way, bitch. It'd be totally boring. We'd end every fight in seconds with super speed!' Inner Zoey argued.


'I guess so. With Combo Magji, we do have time to warm up before things get really crazy.' Zoey could understand what she meant now.





Luminaurora, the hidden city of magjistars, had always been a place starved for events and excitement. It existed in secrecy, shielded from the prying eyes of the human world. Life in Luminaurora was usually marked by tranquility and tradition, a tightly-knit community where the magically mundane was the norm. But now, a new topic has formed. The death of Victor Khan had become a sensation that transcended the boundaries of this secluded city and even became news across several OM branches across the world. It was an event that gripped the imagination of every magjistar, young and old alike. Even though the results of his death hadn't changed much for the world at large, the city had become a boiling bubbling pit of anticipation for the next hottest news.


LuminauroraTimes, the preeminent newspaper within the city, had seized upon the sensational story with a fervor that matched the mood of the entire population. The headlines screamed in bold, black letters, "Mysterious Terrorists Unleash Mayhem in Luminaurora!" The newspaper, known by its abbreviation LT, had become the chief purveyor of news and information in the city. It was a publication with a legacy, and its headlines held sway over the minds of magjistars.


The entire city was abuzz with the story. People from all walks of life couldn't stop discussing the frightening actions of these enigmatic figures who had donned animal masks to hide their identities. LT had gone to great lengths to paint a vivid picture of chaos and disruption, emphasizing the terror and dangerousness of these criminals. They were depicted as dangerous terrorists who had sought to unleash terror upon the city. The articles spoke of the battles in the streets, no regard for the common man or authority, and the disruption of daily life with pictures in store shops. Public sentiment was divided; some saw them as a result of Victor's death. The significant drop in official power in the nation would lead to the rise of those who seek to bring the nation to chaos, while others just branded them as crazy criminals.


The trio, known only by their animal masks, were public enemies number one, two, and three. The city was torn between those who were planning to leave Luminaurora because of how public security had degraded and those who decried their actions as inhuman and unforgivable.


As Alexander, Lindsay, and Zoey read the headlines, the atmosphere within Alexander's place was far more calm in comparison. Alexander couldn't help but sport a sly grin beneath it. "This went a lot better than I thought it would," he remarked, his voice tinged with amusement.


Lindsay frowned as she stayed silent. Her glasses glinted with stoicism as she replied, "I still think there was a better way this could've been done." Zoey ignored Lindsay's words. If there was a better way to get revenge than beating the shit out of people, she didn't know it. Or didn't want to think about it. These headlines were proof of her revenge. Although she wasn't completely satisfied and would always hold a grudge, she certainly wouldn't go out of her way to assault any more magjistars anytime soon.


"They deserved it," Zoey shared her thoughts.
 
Chapter 173: Drama with KCC?!
AN: Alright! you guys finally caught up with the rest of my readers on other websites where i had more of this posted. maybe you knew this or not but you've been getting spoiled or tricked. (depending on how you look at it) So chapters will now be released every Saturday and Sunday. I hope you continue to stick around and enjoy the story I've made so far.

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the city of Krey. In the heart of this bustling metropolis stood Krey's Community Center, a testament to the remarkable transformation that had taken place within its walls. As the city lights began to twinkle to life, so did the center's vibrant social media presence. Positive posts flooded its profiles, celebrating the stories of delight and joy that unfolded daily. Hashtags like #LocalHeroes and #KCC proliferated across the digital landscape, resonating with a growing online community.


On the center's DigiConnect page, a colorful mosaic of images and videos unfolded. A child's beaming face, paint-smeared hands, and a canvas filled with abstract art, all accompanied by a caption, "Exploring creativity at #KCC Art Class." The post garnered a flurry of reactions, comments, and shares, creating a digital gallery where the world could witness the blossoming talents of young artists.


Meanwhile, over on GramShare, a carousel of snapshots told stories of change and personal growth. A split-screen image showcased Sarah, once entangled in the grip of gang violence, dressed in gang apparel on the left and on the right, the same Sarah, now confidently smiling inside an office dressed in a professional outfit. A simple swipe across the screen revealed a transformation that was nothing short of remarkable.


ChirpChat buzzed with activity as well, where snippets of wisdom from the center's life skills classes were shared with the hashtag #EmpowerYourself. One post featured a photograph of a group engaged in a budgeting workshop, calculators and notepads in hand, learning the art of financial management. The caption read, "Turning dreams into financial plans at #KCC." It was a visual representation of individuals taking charge of their futures, one spreadsheet at a time.


The community center's Beetube channel was a treasure trove of stories, where videos captured the heartwarming moments of a single mother, Amanda, working hard to master cooking skills in the culinary class for her young son. Close-ups of her hands expertly preparing a dish were interspersed with snippets of her sharing her newfound culinary prowess. Comments flooded in, praising her journey from kitchen novice to confident cook. All because her son said her cooking sucked.


In the midst of all this digital activity, a series of short video clips showcased the smiles and laughter that echoed through the center's walls. Children gleefully played in the community gymnasium, playing dodgeball, volleyball, basketball, and all sorts of other physical activities. A young boy narrated, "I used to think this place sucked because my grandma made me come here instead of hanging out with my friends outside, but this place is lit AF." These candid moments, recorded and shared online, embodied the sense of belonging and joy that the center offered.


And through it all, a chorus of voices, both young and old, could be heard through video testimonials. Faces of community members filled the screen, each expressing gratitude for the positive changes they had experienced. "This place gave me hope," one person said, while another declared, "I finally feel like I belong and don't have to force myself to go along with things I didn't want to do just to fit in."


The hashtags #KCC and other hashtags relating to Krey's Community Center dominated social media conversations both inside Krey and outside of the local area, punctuating each post with a badge of honor, a symbol of a collective commitment to making a difference. These digital markers were more than mere words; they were emblems of a thriving city's pride and joy bound by shared values and a common vision.


"Krey's Community Center gave me a second chance," exclaimed Marcus Thompson, a tall, muscular man who had found hope and opportunity within the center's welcoming embrace. "I couldn't find a stable job that didn't judge me because of my criminal record before, but now I'm working hard and actually happy when doing it."


The center's receptionist, Grace Turner, a young woman with a warm smile, was often the first face newcomers encountered. Her voice was filled with politeness and empathy as she greeted them, saying, "Welcome to Krey's Community Center. How can I assist you today?" She played a crucial role in making people feel at ease. Like they truly belonged. Grace was one of the most popular people at the community center, even though it seemed like she was surgically attached behind the front desk.


Mr. Garcia, a middle-aged man who exuded positive masculinity and toughness, welcomed troubled individuals with open arms. "We believe in second chances and providing support to individuals who are ready to make positive changes for themselves and those around them," he explained. "We take anyone and everyone willing to make a positive change for themselves and those around them. We will find a place for you at Krey's Community Center. It doesn't matter if you're young, old, disabled, poor, or anything! If you have the will to make the world a better place, Krey's Community Center has a spot for you!"


Beyond the warm reception and employment opportunities, the core message of Krey's Community Center resonated deeply: Making a place where people feel like they belong. For many, this sense of belonging was transformative.


"People sometimes resort to desperate measures to find their place in life," explained Sarah, a community member who had benefited significantly from the center's programs. "Krey's Community Center offers an alternative path, one that doesn't involve joining gangs or selling drugs or doing crimes. It's a lifeline for our city."


"Prior to the center, there were few places for kids to have fun without getting in trouble. Now, my son has a dedicated place where he can learn, have fun, and stay out of harm's way. It's been a game-changer for our family," shared Tom, a devoted parent who found solace in the community center's safe environment for his son.


"They never really taught us these essential life skills in school, from learning to cook and manage finances to relationship advice, car maintenance, home repairs, and more. Thanks to the center's classes, I've become more self-reliant," Maria, a young woman in her early twenties, explained as she adulted with pride.


"Several months ago, I was involved with a gang. The center's self-defense and combat sports programs provided an outlet for my energy and a renewed sense of purpose. It rescued me from a perilous path," Carlos, a muscular and tattooed young man in his late teens, shared with pride.


"As a single mother, finding affordable childcare was an uphill battle. The center's after-school programs have been a blessing. My kids are not only safe but also thriving," Ella, an early twenties mother with long brown hair, expressed her gratitude.


"The sense of community here is extraordinary. Despite our diverse backgrounds, we're united by the common goal of making the world a better place. It's akin to a second family—an extended family encompassing people from all walks of life," Sofia, a woman in her forties with neatly styled silver hair, emphasized.


"I've witnessed firsthand how gang violence has waned since the center's inception. Instead of kids loitering on the streets and engaging in unproductive activities, they're channeling their youthful energy into productive endeavors. It's like a guiding light in our city, demonstrating that positive change is attainable," Jeffrey, a man in his fifties with a well-kept beard and attire, recounted.


"Krey's Community Center is more than a physical place; it's a movement. It has shown our city that we can transcend challenges and collaboratively forge a brighter future," Isaac conveyed his enthusiasm. Sporting a buzzed haircut and donning the Krey's Community Center T-shirt during his interview, his passion was palpable.


The impact extended far beyond individual stories. Gang violence, which had once plagued Krey's streets, had significantly decreased. Graffiti had been replaced by vibrant murals, showcasing the talents of local artists. The community had united in an effort to clean their city, picking up trash and restoring a sense of pride. Educational services at the center addressed gaps in learning. Scholarship programs and tutoring services empowered students to excel. Life skills classes covered topics like resume building, knowledge of common law, and finance– practical knowledge that empowered adults to lead independent lives.


"The community center offers a comprehensive range of classes," noted Amanda, a mother who had taken parenting classes there. "From mental health to self-defense, it equips us with the skills we unfortunately are often not taught growing up. Sometimes even by our parents."


"Krey's Community Center has become a beacon of hope," concluded Marcus. "It's not just a place; it's a symbol of positive change in our city. And it's changing lives every day. It's changed my life, and I couldn't be more thankful…" Marcus had his arm wrapped around an Asian woman before kissing her on the cheek.




The stage was set for Senator Emily Reynolds's grand introduction to the citizens of Wellville. The location chosen for her speech was no ordinary venue; it was the heart of the state itself. In front of a majestic backdrop of Wellville's skyline, with its iconic buildings illuminated against the evening sky, Senator Reynolds stood at a podium adorned with the city's emblem. The city's residents gathered in the open plaza, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights and the anticipation of change.


The senator's arrival was met with cheers and applause as she stepped onto the stage. Emily Reynolds was an elegant woman in her early forties with a poised demeanor that exuded confidence. Her attire was carefully chosen—a stylish, tailored pantsuit in a shade of deep blue that conveyed authority and professionalism. Her auburn hair was neatly coiffed, and she wore minimal jewelry, opting for a single pearl necklace that accentuated her grace.


As she began her speech, the gathered crowd listened with rapt attention. News reporters, their cameras rolling, captured every word she spoke. Behind her stood a team of staff members, all dressed in matching attire, their expressions neutral and controlled.


"Krey's Community Center has shown us what's possible when we invest in our communities and give people the tools they need to succeed and survive," Senator Reynolds declared, her voice carrying a blend of sincerity and determination. "It's a shining example of what we can achieve when we come together to make a difference for the better of those around us. That's why I believe we should replicate its success in other cities facing similar crime and economic challenges like Krey."


The backdrop of the city's skyline lent an air of grandeur to her words, and the symbolism was not lost on anyone. Emily's presence radiated hope, and her vision for change struck a chord with the citizens. She spoke of revitalizing struggling neighborhoods, providing opportunities to those who had been left behind, and creating a brighter future for all.


However, as the senator continued her speech, not all in the crowd were convinced. A few reporters from local news outlets raised their hands, eager to question the senator on the specifics of her plan.


"Senator Reynolds, how do you plan to fund the expansion of Krey's Community Center to other cities?" one reporter asked. "And will the success of the original center be replicated without any compromise in quality?"


Emily Reynolds responded with a well-rehearsed answer, "We intend to secure a combination of government grants and private donations to fund the expansion. The success of the original center has proven that this approach can make a significant impact on communities. I will ensure that the quality will remain at the top, sparing no cost to ensure it is on par or even greater than the original."


Another reporter pressed on, "Will you be consulting with the individuals who spearheaded Krey's Community Center, including Zoey Winters, who has played a pivotal role in its success and creation?"


The senator's response was carefully worded, "While I deeply respect the efforts of those involved, the expansion of the centers is a crucial endeavor that demands decisive steps. We will, of course, consider their valuable insights, but the gravity of addressing the needs of cities in distress calls for unwavering commitment and expeditious progress."


A reporter from a news station Emily wasn't familiar with was called on, "Considering the importance of community involvement and local leadership in the original center's success, how do you plan to engage with grassroots organizations and community leaders in the new cities?"


"Community involvement is paramount. We will actively seek partnerships with local organizations and leaders to ensure that the centers are deeply rooted in the communities they serve." Senator Reynolds replied.


As the senator addressed the crowd and responded to questions from the press, the atmosphere was charged with both anticipation and skepticism. The plaza, bathed in the soft, ambient light of the evening, served as a metaphor for the city itself—a place where the promise of progress met the watchful eyes of its residents. Emily Reynolds's eloquent words resonated with many, igniting hope and optimism in the hearts of those who believed in her vision. Her poised demeanor and stylish attire projected an image of competence and professionalism, further enhancing her appeal.


However, beneath the surface, a subtle undercurrent of doubt persisted. The questions raised by reporters, both familiar and unknown to the senator, hinted at concerns about funding, quality, and the role of the original community center's leaders. These questions hung in the air, waiting for satisfactory answers. The biggest question was if she could live up to the original massive success or if she would fail, hurting her political career.




Zoey lounged in her favorite gaming chair. The soft glow of her three computer monitors cast a warm, bright light in her room. Her injured body still throbbed with discomfort, but she had found an entertaining way to pass the time while she recovered. She was in the midst of an intense online match, surrounded by a team of players she had never met before. They communicated via voice chat, coordinating their strategies as they faced off against an opposing team. Zoey was deliberately hindering her team from winning the game by frequently blocking their shots, stopping their movements, and sometimes just straight-up killing them. it had triggered an expected reaction.


StrikingConuil, one of her teammates, had reacted with a level of fury that was both astonishing and comical. Most players would have just blocked, reported, and muted Zoey before kicking her out of their game, but StrikingConuil let his rage get the better of him.


In the voice chat, StrikingConuil's enraged voice blared through her headset. He unleashed a torrent of insults, threats, and profanities, each word laced with venom. "You're a fucking idiot, Blue! I can't believe we got stuck with a dumbass like you on our team!"


Zoey, however, remained unfazed. She responded with a calmness that contrasted sharply with StrikingConuil's raging outbursts. "Hey, StrikingConuil, settle down, okay?" she said with an innocent tone. "I'm just trying to learn how to play the game."


Her words only fueled StrikingConuil's anger further. He spewed more vitriol, growing increasingly unhinged with each passing moment. Zoey could hear the frustration in his voice, and it only encouraged her to continue her trolling. She leaned into her microphone, her voice dripping with mock sympathy. "StrikingConuil, do you need to do some breathing exercises? You sound really upset. Maybe you should take a deep breath and relax. Here, do it like me." Zoey began breathing in and out into her mic.


StrikingConuil's response was a string of expletives that made Zoey nearly choke while she was trying to breathe in and out! He couldn't seem to find any words beyond a few choice profanities, which he repeated in a furious tirade. "Fuck you, Blue! I hope you get cancer and die! I can't even play the game! I can't fucking even move!!!!!!" He sounded like he was on the verge of tears.


Zoey was actually dying. No, she was physically dying in her chair. This guy was going to make her laugh to death. Oh god, her body hurt so much already, and he was torturing her through laughter. Maybe trolling wasn't as safe of an activity as she thought it was, with her body still healing from Overdraft.


Despite the aching, aching pain, Zoey couldn't help but make a few more playful comments, each one calculated to keep StrikingConuil's fury burning. In the end, their team lost the match, but StrikingConuil's rage persisted. He left the game with a final flurry of insults, promising all sorts of creative punishments for Zoey's supposed crimes.


Zoey leaned back in her chair, her laughter echoing through her room. It was a strange way to spend her time, but there was something really, really satisfying about baiting a reaction out of people. Since she couldn't fight until her match with the ground-and-pound guy, trolling was a guilty pleasure that allowed her to unwind and revel in the absurdity of online gaming.





Sometime later, Zoey's phone was blowing up for some reason, and she logged into her social media accounts, and the posts flooded in like a tidal wave. Messages, comments, and mentions overwhelmed her, all related to the same topic: Senator Reynolds and Krey's Community Center.


The news of Senator Emily Reynolds's speech and her ambitious plans for replicating the success of Krey's Community Center spread like wildfire, and Zoey's loyal fans and the citizens of Krey couldn't help but take notice. The social media platforms that had once been filled with praises for the community center were now buzzing with a different kind of energy.


"Hey Zoey, did you see this speech by Senator Reynolds? She's talking about expanding Krey's Community Center to other cities! Is this legal?" A follower linked the post to her.


Zoey furrowed her brows in confusion. She had been busy gaming all day and hadn't checked her social media feed yet. The message's urgency caught her attention, and she quickly clicked on the link to watch Senator Reynolds's speech. The video played, and Zoey listened intently to the senator's words. Her expression shifted from confusion to expressionless as she watched. Senator Emily Reynolds, a name she had never heard before, was indeed discussing the expansion of Krey's Community Center's success to other cities.


The questions flooded in, and Zoey couldn't ignore them any longer. "Zoey, I thought you were the face of the community center. Did you give this lady permission to use your success like this?" Someone asked, "Is it just me, or is Senator Reynolds trying to ride on your coattails, Zoey? What's going on?" Another person posted.


The comments continued to pour in, and Zoey didn't exactly know how to feel. She couldn't help but wonder if someone stealing the format of her community center was really bad or not. While there were a few hiccups in the beginning, it turned out far better than she thought it would. Would it be bad if this was spread to other cities?


"Zoey, are you going to sue Senator Reynolds for this? It's your legacy!" Someone asked.


The question hung in the air, and Zoey laughed at how ridiculous that sounded. She wasn't some greedy bitch who wanted to hold tightly the methods of success for her community center to herself. Better cities and communities were good for everyone. But, she knew nothing about this Senator Reynolds. Lucky for her, she had a good friend who knew all sorts of things about all sorts of people! And she had another good friend who would know exactly how Zoey should react to this event.


Zoey's first step was to consult with Angelica, her trusted Social Media Manager and, lately, personal secretary. Zoey dialed Angelica's number, and after a few rings, her voice came through the line.


"Hey, Angelica. What should I do about this Senator Reynolds person?" Zoey asked directly.


"I'll handle it. You stay quiet about the situation while my people and I do some investigation about whether you should align yourself with Senator Reynolds or not." Angelica promptly answered.


"Cool. So just don't say anything and keep going about my business?" Zoey wanted to clarify.


"Correct," Angelica replied.


"Thanks. Uh, bye then." Zoey responded.

"Bye, Zoey. Have a wonderful day." Angelica ended the call as she began looking into Senator Emily Reynolds's financial backers, her political alliances, and any potential ulterior motives behind her sudden interest in the community center.

As the call disconnected, Zoey decided to look up the senator lady. It wasn't like she was doing anything else. Why not spend some time learning about the government? Zoey watched some videos and speeches made by Senator Reynolds. "She doesn't seem like an evil politician," Zoey muttered to herself as she scrolled through news articles and videos of Senator Reynolds addressing various crowds. The senator's speeches were filled with promises of positive change, community support, and empowerment. Zoey couldn't deny the appeal of Senator Reynolds's words, but as a pessimist, she couldn't help but wonder if there was more to this lady.
 
Chapter 174: The Prelude to the Big Showdown!
The global community of fight enthusiasts was ablaze with anticipation as the date of the epic showdown between Zoey Winters and Simon Birch drew nearer. The media frenzy surrounding the event was relentless, thrusting both fighters into the blinding spotlight. Their fans throbbed with excitement as every major news outlet clamored for their piece of the action. Reporters swarmed like hungry bees, eager to capture quotes, stories, and even the slightest glimpse of the fighters that could satiate their insatiable audiences. Cameras flashed incessantly, capturing images of Zoey and Simon at every turn, their faces illuminated by the bright lights.


It seemed that wherever they went, a horde of microphones and recording equipment followed. News vans lined the streets, satellite dishes perched high, ready to transmit every soundbite and image to a global audience hungry for the latest updates. The air buzzed with the hum of drones capturing aerial views of the city and sometimes of the fighters themselves.


Fans, both die-hard and casual, were equally eager to be part of the spectacle. Social media platforms transformed into virtual arenas of debate and anticipation. Hashtags like #DevilVsGround&Pound and #BattleOftheUndefeated trended daily, their digital reach extending to the farthest corners of the internet. Memes, GIFs, and fan art flooded the digital landscape, adding a humorous and sometimes absurd dimension to the fervor. Even fellow fighters, those who had tasted victory and defeat in the unforgiving Fighting Tournament League, couldn't resist weighing in on the match. Old rivals and potential future opponents offered their opinions, their voices echoing through podcasts, interviews, and other pieces of media. Some praised Zoey's evolving fighting style with a heavy focus on striking and an amazing stage persona, recognizing her as a terrifying force to be reckoned with. Others admired Simon's upfront, honest, no-nonsense attitude, acknowledging his place as a potential top fighter in the fighting world. Everyone couldn't help but add their two cents about this upcoming fight.


Zoey Winters, a fighter known for her terrifying demeanor and scarily calm approach to all her fights, found herself navigating this chaotic sea of attention just as calmly as she did at their press conference. Her entrance into the world of media scrutiny was met with disinterest and boredom. She faced reporters' questions with measured responses, revealing exactly her thoughts on the fight and completely disregarding Simon Birch and all those who supported him by not even treating him like a real opponent! Most of them knew it was just how The Devil was, but it still irked them! The fighter whose leg she broke received the same treatment!


The mind games and psychological warfare between the fighters extended beyond the press conferences. They exchanged verbal jabs, taunts, and provocations on social media, fueling the anticipation and tension for the fight even more. Social media became a battlefield of words, with each fighter's loyal fanbase fiercely defending their champion. Simon's tweets were a mix of bravado and insults. He painted Zoey as a pretender, a fighter whose undefeated record was built on the backs of no-names and plants by the FTL. "It's all a damn sham!" he tweeted, "You think a scrawny little butterfly like that could possibly last this long in the fighting world? I'm telling ya, it's nothing but a mirage. And I'm shattering that mirage for all of you to see. Just wait for the match."


Zoey's responses were minimalistic yet impactful. She posted videos of her old intense training sessions at the gym, showcasing her unmatched striking prowess and precision. There was no caption or anything for the videos, it simply embodied the words: "Actions speak louder than words." Her injury from pushing Overdraft too far was healing nicely, but she wouldn't be at 100% in time for the match. Not that she was worried about it. A handicap like this should be good enough, Simon. He was a normal human. She actually checked this time at the press conference.


As the build-up to the clash ramped up, fans and analysts dissected every interaction, trying to decipher who held the psychological advantage. Some believed that Simon's brash confidence masked a hint of insecurity, that his need to taunt and belittle his opponent was a sign that he saw Zoey as a legitimate threat. On the other hand, Zoey's calm demeanor and calculated responses were seen as a sign of unshakable self-assuredness. She didn't need to engage in Simon's theatrics; her confidence came from within, from an unbreakable belief in her own abilities. It was a quiet confidence that spoke volumes.


The media frenzy showed no signs of abating. It was a storm of anticipation and hype that would only intensify as the battle between Zoey Winters and Simon Birch drew closer. Fighting fans around the world were gripped by feverish excitement, and the world watched with bated breath as the two relatively young but very popular fighters prepared to clash in the ring.


Simon Birch, with his imposing frame, rugged demeanor, and impressive winning streak, had emerged as a force of nature within the Fighting Tournament League. He had bulldozed his way through opponents, leaving a trail of defeated fighters behind him. But what fueled this seemingly unstoppable juggernaut? What motivated him to relentlessly pursue victory in a world defined by blood, sweat, and glory?




Simon's story began far from the neon lights of the fighting arena, in the heart of rural America, on a sprawling farm that seemed worlds away from the glamour of the fighting world. He was a product of hard work and resilience, molded by the tough demands of farm life. His father, a stern man who only knew how to give tough love, had instilled in him the values of discipline, perseverance, and the importance of believing that a man showed his true self through his actions not his words.


The Birch family's existence revolved around the farm, with Simon observing his father's ceaseless toil—working the land, tending to livestock, and weathering the unpredictable storms of life. It was a life of manual labor, of sweat-soaked days and sleepless nights. But it was also a life that was ingrained in Simon, his intense training regime that he has now. He learned the value of hard work, the satisfaction of seeing the fruits of one's labor, and the resilience to confront adversity head-on.


However, life on the farm was not without its hardships. The Birch family faced financial struggles that threatened to strip them of their home and livelihood. Simon was angry at his surroundings. He was furious that something like this was happening to his family, of all people. And he lashed out.


Simon's father saw his son getting into trouble more and more often. It wasn't until he was told that the boy liked fighting that he decided to punish him by giving him exactly what he wanted. He had a friend who owned a gym and sent Simon to that gym. If he wanted to shape up and fix his attitude, he might as well put all that fighting to good use and try to figure out a way to make some money! Simon's father didn't know if his son had any talent for fighting or anything like that. He just knew the boy was caught fighting a lot at school. It was just his way of punishing him that actually turned out well for their family. His friend started Simon's training, teaching him the fundamentals of wrestling, focusing all that angst he had toward the world toward fighting.


As Simon grew older, his prowess as a fighter became increasingly evident. He possessed a natural talent for combat, a raw power that, when focused in the ring, transformed into a devastating force. But it wasn't merely the pursuit of victory that motivated him; it was the burning desire to provide for his family, to lift them out of the financial abyss that had shadowed them for years. Plus, it felt really nice to be adored and loved by people when he was nothing but a farmer's boy in school.


Struggles and sacrifices marked Simon's journey from the farm to the world of professional fighting. He faced opponents who were bigger, faster, and more experienced. Yet, he remained unstoppable, drawing strength from the lessons of his father and the unwavering support of those around him. With each hard-fought victory, he inched closer to his new dream of becoming rich and famous.


It was this fierce drive, this unwavering determination, that had propelled Simon Birch to one of the top young talents of the Fighting Tournament League. He had become the living embodiment of the American Dream, a testament to the power of relentless labor and unwavering resolve. Nevertheless, success brought new challenges and ever-tougher opponents, all eager to dethrone the undefeated upstart.


The impending fight against Zoey Winters was not just another bout for Simon; it was a chance to prove himself on the grandest stage, to etch his name into the annals of fighting history as one of the greatest combatants of his generation. However, there were personal stakes beyond the match itself, ones that weighed heavily on Simon's broad shoulders. The farm that had been the Birch family's pride and heritage, the land that had been passed down through generations, was now teetering on the precipice of foreclosure. The financial burdens that had plagued his family for years had resurfaced with renewed ferocity. It wasn't enough to just keep the farm afloat. He needed to buy his Ma and Pa a bigger farm!


Simon understood that a victory over Zoey Winters would not only secure his place in the pantheon of the top talents of their generation but also provide the financial lifeline his family desperately needed. It was a burden he willingly carried, an additional layer of motivation that fueled his already formidable drive.


As the world watched and speculated about the outcome of the fight, few were privy to the full extent of the personal stakes for Simon Birch. It was a story of resilience, of a fighter who had risen from humble beginnings to the top of his sport. The battle in the ring was not just about victory or defeat; it was about securing a better future for himself and his family—a future that hung in the balance as he prepared to face the faker, Zoey Winters.


In the world of professional fighting, success was seldom a solitary pursuit. Behind every formidable fighter stood a network of unwavering support comprising coaches, trainers, friends, and fans. These relationships were not only vital for physical preparation but also played a crucial role in shaping the fighters' mental and emotional states in the lead-up to a high-stakes showdown.


On the other side of the ring, Simon Birch also had his own support system—a group of individuals who had been instrumental in shaping his career and preparing him for the battle ahead. His trainer, Coach Mitchell, was a former wrestling champion who had recognized Simon's potential early on. Under Coach Mitchell's tutelage, Simon had honed his fighting skills to the peak.


Coach Mitchell was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes. He had pushed Simon to his limits, demanding nothing less than excellence. Their training sessions were grueling and designed to test Simon's endurance and strength. Coach Mitchell knew that to maintain an undefeated record, Simon had to be in the best shape of his life. In a dimly lit wrestling room, the thud of bodies hitting the mat resonated with authority. Coach Mitchell circled Simon, his eyes sharp and discerning. "You're good, Simon, but good isn't enough. Don't forget, this girl also got some wrestling training. We don't know how good she is because she's a striker, but assume she's better than you and keep training."


Beyond Coach Mitchell, Simon's friends had also played a crucial role. They were his confidants, the ones who provided emotional support during the toughest moments of his career. They reminded him of the sacrifices he had made, the hours of training, and the pain endured. They were his anchors, keeping him grounded in the face of growing fame and popularity.


Among his friends was Jake, a towering presence with a gentle demeanor. Jake had witnessed Simon's journey from elementary school all the way to now. He understood the pressure Simon was under, and his reassuring words were a boost to Simon's confident demeanor. "You're on the brink of history, man," Jake said, his voice low and steady. "No one's done what you've done. You've got a legacy to protect and an undefeated fake to defeat."


And then there were Simon's fans, a passionate and devoted bunch who saw him as a symbol of resilience. They believed in his ability to overcome any obstacle, and their unwavering faith in him added to the weight of expectations. Simon understood that his success was not just a personal triumph but a source of inspiration for those who followed his journey.




As the date for the most anticipated fight in recent memory approached, the world couldn't stop talking about the impending clash between Zoey Winters and Simon Birch. The media frenzy that surrounded the bout was nothing short of spectacular, drawing in reporters, fans, and fellow fighters from all corners of the globe. Both Zoey and Simon found themselves thrust into the spotlight like never before, and the cries clamoring for their attention reached a deafening crescendo.


Even those with no interest in the fighting community had heard about this exciting fight coming soon. The buzz was inescapable, and the anticipation among fans and fighters alike reached a fever pitch. The fighting press conference had delivered all the drama and excitement expected from a high-profile showdown.


The rivalry between Zoey Winters and Simon Birch had been stoked, ensuring that the upcoming fight would be one for the ages. The battle of words had only just begun, but it was a precursor to the physical clash that would determine who would emerge victorious in the unforgiving arena of combat.
 
Chapter 175: Zoey's Debut Fight in the FTL!
Inside the colossal arena, anticipation hung thick in the air like a tangible force. The venue, known for hosting some of the most high-profile fights in the world, was a sight to behold. Its towering stands seemed to touch the heavens, and the ceiling was adorned with a stunning display of colorful lights, giving the arena a surreal, almost otherworldly feel.


The audience had gathered from all corners of the globe, and the atmosphere was electric with excitement. As they took their seats, the spectators marveled at the grandeur of the venue. The rows of seating seemed to stretch on infinitely, and every inch was filled with eager faces. Fans waved flags and banners, ones bearing the name of their favored fighter, encouraging quotes, insults, pictures, and more, creating a diverse sea of colors that added to the spectacle.


In the front row, friends and family of both fighters had secured their spots, their faces a mix of pride and excitement. They didn't even recognize each other as they happily chatted before the match. Each side was convinced that their fighter would emerge victorious, and the stakes had never felt higher.


The crowd's energy was contagious, spreading like wildfire through the arena. They roared with excitement, their voices blending into a deafening sound wave that reverberated through the venue's walls. It was as if the collective heartbeat of the crowd echoed through the arena, a steady drumroll of anticipation.


Every eye was trained on the entrances, waiting for the first glimpse of the fighters. The jumbotron suspended above the ring currently displayed a live feed of the backstage area, where Zoey Winters and Simon Birch prepared for their grand entrances. The crowd erupted into cheers as they caught sight of the fighters in their iconic attire.


A young girl in the audience, barely able to contain her excitement, tugged at her father's sleeve. "Daddy, look! It's The Devil!" she exclaimed with a cute little scary voice, pointing at the screen. Her father nodded, a proud smile on his face as he lifted her onto his shoulders for a better view. She crazily screamed like a monster in support of her favorite fighter.


Meanwhile, a group of friends in the middle row debated fiercely about the upcoming fight. "I've been following The Devil's career from the beginning," one of them said, "and I'm telling you, she's going to wipe the floor with this farm boy." His friend shook his head. "You can't underestimate Mr. Ground-and-Pound, though. He's kicked the asses of people way bigger and tougher than him. I just can't see how she's going to pull out the win for this." "THE DEVIL HAS DEFEATED A SUMO WRESTLER!!! I DON'T WANNA HEAR SHIT ABOUT A SIZE DIFFERENCE!"





As Zoey's students eagerly awaited her match to begin, their youthful enthusiasm filled the air, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation in the crowd. They chatted among themselves excitedly. The fight they've been waiting months for is finally happening!!!


Ricky, one of the older kids in the group, couldn't contain his excitement and started punching toward his classmate. "Miss Devil is going to freaking kill this guy!!!" Cassie, a young girl with bright eyes, chimed in while weaving and dodging his punches with ease, "Do you think she's going to use her Devil's Twist?!"


Cindy added, "Mr. Ground-and-Pound won't stand a chance against Miss Devil. She's like the strongest fighter in the world." Her admiration for her teacher showed through the shine in her eyes.


Jack exclaimed, "I can't wait to see the fight. We should have made a bigger poster to cheer her on with."


Jonathan innocently exclaimed, "I can't wait till I get matches of my own! All these people cheering for me! It's going to be dope as hell!" His words also reminded the others that all of this could be for them in the future.


Sherry, with a thoughtful expression, shared, "My mom said that this might be hard for Miss Devil because her opponent is a grown man."


Keith asked, "Do you think she'll finish him with a wrestling move? Like the moves, she taught us?" His curiosity sparked a discussion about the possibility of seeing Zoey's signature move.


Clementine giggled and said, "Like, totally. Miss Devil's gonna show that loser who he's calling a poser, up close and personal." She cracked her knuckles.


Lily gazed at the screen with excitement. "Go, Miss Devil! Collect his soul!!!" She passionately screamed in support.


Otto, the biggest of all Zoey's students, watched with wide eyes, genuinely excited to see his teacher in action. Although he could probably be the loudest one out of all of the students, he quietly waved the big crowd sign they made together as a class.


Devin and Allen, two buddies who often goofed around together, exchanged playful banter. "I bet this won't even go past the first round!" Devin boasted. Allen laughed, "I bet it won't even last thirty seconds!"





"I'll never get used to this," Alexander said with a smile on his face.


"It is certainly an experience…" Lindsay pushed up her glasses as she sat next to Alexander.


"It is very exciting—all of humanity at its most bare and savage. Despite looking forward to nothing more than brutal violence and savagery, very few of their souls are actually tainted by dark desires." Caroline Hines looked at the crowd in joy.


"Aren't you a fighter too?" Alexander asked.


"That's correct. I use it as a mental exercise for purifying tainted souls." Caroline nodded.


"How does that work?" Alexander questioned.


"It helps keep me in shape for purifying wicked ones." She answered simply.


"Ugh…" Joseph's face scrunched up as he tried to control his connate magji from looking at all these people's emotions. It was an overlord on his senses. So many people that were feeling excitement and joy. If it wasn't for his teacher's training, he would've been sucked up by the great ocean of emotions surrounding this fight and lost himself entirely.


"Do you need to step out, Joseph?" Lindsay asked in concern.


"I'll be fine…" Joseph gritted his teeth. "I've trained too hard to allow so many humans to defeat me with sheer numbers." He did his utmost to control his magji.


"You got this man." Alexander cheered him on.


"Yeah, thanks…" Joseph rolled his eyes behind his thick, dark sunglasses. Wearing a blindfold brought too much attention in the normal world.





"This place sure is loud…" Tink carefully hid within Everett's shirt.


"Zoey is famous, so yeah." He didn't really know what else to say to that.


"I don't think I ever seen this many people in one place before. Not even in Luminuaurora." Tink shared.


"What do magic people even do for fun?" Everett wondered.


"They have small parties!" Tink knew that much, at least. They served at a few of them.


"They don't have fighting things like this?" Everett was surprised.


"Nope." Tink popped the p.


"I'm surprised with how violent they are…" Everett shared.


"GO ZOEY!!!" Callie shrieked while frantically waving a large supportive sign.


"Go Zoey…" Katlyn hid her face as she sat next to this embarrassing girl while waving a small flag.


People from all facets of Zoey's life came to support her whether she knew it or not. People from Krey's Community Center, classmates from school, people from Starlight University, and even a well-known Senator personally came to see her fight.


"I don't see why I had to personally come here instead of just watching it at home…" Senator Reynolds looked at her secretary.


"You cannot truly understand Zoey Winter's popularity until you've seen it for yourself. This is good for you. Act like it." Secretary Jackson glared at his boss. "You never know who is watching, so put a smile on your face, please."


Emily Reynolds grumbled as she put on her public smile as the sensory overload of the venue was taking its toll on her.





And then it happened. The arena's speakers roared to life, pumping out the familiar theme songs of the fighters. The ground trembled beneath the collective roar of the crowd as Zoey Winters and Simon Birch made their grand entrances. Zoey, shrouded in a sea of red smoke like she was coming from the deepest part of Hell, walked to the ring with her theme song blaring ominous and foreboding music, blanketing the crowd in an atmosphere of horror and joy. Her supporters cheered her on despite the tone of her entrance, their voices echoing through the venue. Her eyes had a slight mischievous shine in them as she walked to the ring, ignoring the hands of fans desperately wanting a handshake or high five while passing by her.


Simon, equally imposing in his demeanor, made his way to the ring to the thunderous chants of his fans as loud patriotic music played. They chanted the words of the song like a war cry, the sheer volume enough to send shivers down anyone's spine. "AMERIKA!!!" They screamed.


The two fighters, now inside the ring, stood face to face once again, just like at the press conference, their eyes locked on each other. The crowd continued to go wild as the match was seconds from starting, a palpable tension gripping their hearts. It was a moment of pure electricity, the calm before the storm. The referee, standing at the center of the ring, raised the microphone to his lips, and the audience held its collective breath, knowing that the next words he spoke would signal the beginning of the most anticipated fight in recent memory.


"Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, fighting fans from around the world! Welcome to one of the greatest spectacles in combat sports history! Tonight, under this colossal roof, we are about to witness an event that will go down in the annals of time. This is more than just a fight; this is a clash of titans, a battle of wills, a spectacle of skill and strength!" He started speaking.


"In this corner, we have an unstoppable force of nature, the embodiment of fear, the one and only, The Devil!" A majority of the crowd went wild at the introduction, forcing the referee to pause his words momentarily. "She's the queen of Hell, and no one has been able to challenge that title since her debut! Tonight, she's here to prove that she's not just a fighter. She's a legend in the making!"


"And in the other corner, hailing from one of the largest states in this great country, one of Amerika's great patriots, the embodiment of freedom and hard work, Simon Birch!" An equally loud cheer erupted for Simon. "He's faced adversity head-on and defeated giants in his path. Tonight, he's here to show the world that hard work and determination can overcome any obstacle! Like a true Amerikan!"


"Now, let me remind you all of the rules. This match will be a display of skill, courage, and sportsmanship. No low blows, no eye gouging, and no unsportsmanlike conduct. This is a fair fight, and may the best fighter win!"


The venue seemed to pulsate with energy as the fighters received their final instructions. Every member of the audience could feel the weight of the moment, a shared understanding that they were witnessing history in the making. The arena's lights dimmed, and a spotlight shone on the center of the ring, where the fighters faced off.


"So, without further ado, let the battle begin! Ladies and gentlemen, are you ready?" Thunderous cheers exploded in response. "Fighters, are you ready?" They both nodded. "Then, for the love of the sport, for the glory of competition, and for the legacy that will be written tonight, let the fight commence! FIGHT!" He shouted, and all hell broke loose.

AN:
Comment/Review the story, readers, and give me ideas on possible skills, situations, developments, etc., of things you want to see! No guarantees that I will add what you want. But it helps to have ideas out there. Please point out any mistakes you notice or anything you're not clear about. I'll try to answer them and fix them to the best of my abilities.

Shout-out to special Patreon members: Tuan Nguyen, Blacklionpride24, Xedron, Zaki
 
Chapter 176: The Devil Has Come to Play.
The two fighters didn't hesitate to get closer to one another. Simon took the first move with a quick jab to test the range between them. He knew that he was far larger than his opponent. But for some reason, he didn't feel like that was much of an advantage. Must be the nerves of performing in front of millions of people.


She blocked the jabs with her gloves as she locked eyes with him. Simon didn't like that look in her eyes but didn't let it unnerve him. He knew she was nothing more than a fake. Sure, she might have some training, but her undefeated streak was nothing more than a sham.


In what world can a girl defeat a sumo wrestler but later in the future struggle against a girl in the same weight class as her? Simon and anyone else who had some common sense knew that it didn't make sense. The naysayers might say she was just holding back against the foreign girl, but Simon knew that was bullshit. She was a phony, and her fighting record was fake.


Using his larger size and the length of his arms to his advantage, Simon threw multiple fully extended punches. Still looking directly into his eyes, she blocked each of his punches with those stupid boxing gloves. It didn't matter what area he was targeting on her body. She didn't need to look at where he was throwing his punches. She seemed to have all the information she needed on how to defend just by looking at where he was aiming in his eyes.


At the same time, she was getting closer and closer to him. Punch after punch, it didn't matter. She would deflect it, alter its angle, stop it before it could fully extend, or purposely punch his arm before he could pull it back. With every strike, Simon felt the jarring impact course through his arms and shoulders. Zoey's blows were like bolts of lightning, her gloves finding their mark with unerring accuracy. The sharp sting of her jabs, the dull throb of her hooks – each sensation served as proof that maybe she did have some skill in striking.


Simon, his mouthguard a foreign object in his jaws, tasted the saltiness of sweat as it trickled from his brow and into his mouth. It was a reminder of the grueling preparation, the hours spent in the gym, and the relentless pursuit of victory. "Do you think this is a game?! Quit messin' around and fight!" Simon bellowed in frustration.


As Simon threw a thunderous right hook, Zoey slipped beneath it with uncanny agility, her smaller form a blur of motion. She smiled as her head returned to its original position. Zoey tapped her cheek with her gloves right in front of Simon and the crowd. Begging him to land just one hit. Come on, it's just right there. The crowd roared in amusement at the sight of this while the others booed at the poor sportsmanship.


Just as Simon was about to rush like a mad bull and gore her with nothing but his body and physical strength, the bell rang, and the referee stood in front of him, crossing his arms. Simon's charge was stopped before it could begin as he returned to his corner. He met with his coach, who was looking at him, not looking too pleased. "Keep that temper under control, boy. This match is all over if you aren't in control of yourself. She's proven, she's quick-footed like a rabbit. All you need to do is stay calm and play to your damn strengths. You ain't a damn boxer, are ya boy?" He advised.


"Right!" Simon responded as his gym buds helped him refresh for the second round.


It wasn't until the second round was about to begin that Simon realized that the girl was still staring at him! Was she looking at him the entire time while they were on round break?! 'Ain't she a bizarre one…' Simon shook his head. Ignoring the freaky girl as he signaled to the crowd. He was going to end the match here and now! They responded with loud cheers and words of encouragement.


The second round began in a different manner than the first. Simon dropped his guard as he slowly walked toward Zoey. He walked as if he were going on a leisurely stroll, not in the middle of a fight that was being seen by millions across the world. She looked at him with amusement in her eyes. Did she think this was funny? Oh, he'd show her funny in a second.


An air-shaking crack sounded throughout the arena as the world started to fall for some reason… Simon's head smacked against the ring floor as everything sounded muted in his ears. He could hear his heart beating along with the dull roar of the audience. But that didn't make sense. He hadn't pulled out his new tactic yet. Why were they cheering?


"Five." A white and black blur was counting something.


"Seven." Simon realized what was going on.


"Nine." Simon shot up to his feet in fighting position as he looked into the referee's eyes.


"You're good to continue, son?" He asked.


"Yeah." Simon couldn't feel his mouthpiece in his mouth anymore.


The second round began once again with the crowd chanting Zoey's ring name. She smiled at him. "Maybe you should've stayed at the farm, cowboy."


"I'll show you a cowboy!" Simon placed his guard up as he neared Zoey, on the lookout for any surprise attacks like before. "Not just anyone can dance with the devil." She stoically mocked as he sent a flurry of enraged punches her way.


Shoulder block, parry, deflect, blocked, bob and weave, and dancing around him. As Simon seemingly lost himself in fury, throwing wild punches all around himself as Zoey spun him around the octagon multiple times over. He eventually let out a scream as he charged her. They both fell to the mat as Simon tackled Zoey. A sadistic smile filled with satisfaction appeared on his face as he raised his fist.


Just as he was about to bring his fist down, he could feel himself being tackled off of the girl. She was smiling at him. The sound of the ring's buzzer finally registered in his ears, and the referee yelled at him to get to his corner. "I had her…" Simon balled his shaking fist. How did that round go by so fast? And why was he so tired…?


"All you have to do is get her again, boy. If you can get her once, you can do it again. And get that damn temper of yours under control!" Coach Mitchell slapped the back of his head.


Simon took a deep, deep breath. "Yes, sir." As he focused ahead, he saw that the girl was staring at him again. But when they locked eyes, she waved at him before tapping her still-unblemished cheek. And all that calming was rendered moot in an instant. The final round started up, much to the excitement of the crowd.


In the heart of the ring, under the unforgiving spotlight, the tone of the battle shifted like tectonic plates. Zoey Winters, the adored fighter known for her striking prowess, made an unexpected move that left both the audience and Simon Birch in stunned silence. With a lightning-quick takedown, she had taken Simon to the canvas, and now, their fates were entangled in the world of ground combat.


The hushed anticipation that had settled over the venue was a stark contrast to the earlier cacophony of cheers and gasps. It was as if time itself had slowed, granting every spectator a front-row seat to the impending beatdown. Simon, a giant of a man who had bulldozed his way through countless opponents, found himself in a new position. Beneath Zoey, his waist heaved up and down with the effort of fighting off the inevitable. Her tiny frame, in comparison to his, had transformed into a dominant force, and the malevolent glint in her black eyes sent shivers down the spines of those watching. They were as black as the abyss, devoid of light or compassion, reflecting an evil that sent shivers down the spine.


The audience, a sea of wide-eyed faces, watched as Zoey mounted Simon with predatory grace. Her knees pressed into his sides, effectively pinning him in place. It was a position that sent shockwaves through the crowd, a revelation that Zoey Winters was taking on Simon on his turf! With her gloved hand raised high, The Devil wore a sick, sadistic smile that seemed to materialize from the depths of her dark origins. Her gloves, once symbols of competition and boxing, were now instruments of impending torture. The crowd, unable to look away from the upcoming violence, held its collective breath.


The air was thick with apprehension as The Devil was about to unleash a barrage of ruthless punches. However, Simon tried tossing her off of him with just the force of his waist. But Zoey wasn't sitting on his abdomen, she was sitting on his chest! Even as he thrust his lower body in the air, it did nothing to rid the she-demon on top of him.


"Leave the fighting to real fighters, farm boy." Vicious blows straight outta Hell rained down on top of Simon's face. He desperately blocked with his forearms covering his head, but they did little to soften the blows. Each blow was a visceral, brutal impact, a percussion of brutality that resonated with bone-crunching intensity. The sound of her gloves meeting Simon's flesh reverberated through the venue, a grim reminder of the unforgiving nature of real fighting.


Simon, trapped beneath the onslaught, could feel every strike like a sledgehammer to his defenses. The taste of blood filled his mouth as his blood leaked under the relentless assault. It was a taste of defeat, a reminder to him that in the world of fighting, there were no guarantees of victory. Simon misjudged his opponent and was paying for it…


The crowd, once raucous and frenzied, watched in a state of shock. The atmosphere had shifted from one of excitement to one of grim fascination. Simon's blood was staining all over the ring as he tried his utmost to escape her mount. Every time he wiggled out of her mount, she would wrestle him into a new position to continue pounding on his face. No matter how hard he tried to escape, there was only more endless torture waiting for him under the Ruler of Hell.


Simon, his vision blurred by blood, pain, and swelling of his face, could sense the weight of the moment. It was a defining instant in his career, a test of his resilience and willpower. With every ounce of his strength, he fought to weather the storm, to push back against the relentless tide of Zoey's ground and pound. But Zoey, her now-bloody sadistic smile undiminished, continued her assault with unwavering savagery. Her strikes were calculated and merciless, a relentless onslaught that left no room for survival. The crowd, unable to tear their eyes away from the gruesome spectacle, bore witness to the end of Mr. Ground-and-Pound's undefeated legacy.


The canvas, now stained with blood and sweat, bore witness to the brutality of combat. As the seconds ticked away, Simon's world narrowed to the agonizing dance of Zoey's strikes. The taste of blood, the scent of sweat, the sound of impact – all merged into a buffet of suffering. It was a moment that would be etched into the annals of fighting history, a moment when The Devil revealed the depths of her cruelty.




Multiple staff members of the Fighting Tournament League had to aid the referee in pulling The Devil off of Simon—a slumped and twitching bloodied figure. Multiple adult men were holding her back as the referee tried his utmost to regain control over his ring. The crowd cheered and booed at the same volume. It was a mixture of emotions swimming through the audience after the stunning display.


Even after The Devil was disqualified for excessive force and not stopping when she was warned, she still had a smile on her face. This was a pretty good debut for officially entering the Fighting Tournament League. Zoey thought of this plan with Coach Scott days before the match began. This way, she could get a good number of fighters willing to challenge her, male or female. If she could defeat a popular and strong fighter like Simon Birch, no man would be willing to underestimate her in the FTL.


The 'loss' didn't really bother her because Zoey and everyone else watching knew that it wasn't a real loss when her opponent looked like a corpse in the ring, and she was still raring to go. Not to mention, Zoey was rather happy that Simon was a normal human. It allowed her to handicap her inhuman strength to more of a normal woman's strength. Making this fight much more fun than just overpowering him. A fight isn't all that fun if there's barely a challenge. Zoey defeated Simon with tools that any other man or woman fighter could use.
 
Chapter 177: Another Controversy!?
Fighting fans across the globe received a grim reminder that The Devil had her name for a reason. That brutal single minute of non-stop bloody violence was watched on repeat by millions. Clip by clip of The Devil's malevolence and joy at causing such suffering was seen by all. There were more than a few who did witness the video, even if they weren't interested in the fighting community at all.




The airwaves crackled to life as the iconic intro music of Fighting Talk Radio heralded the start of another gripping episode. Hosts Maria Collins and Alex Turner settled into their chairs, their expressions somber, their voices reflecting the gravity of the situation.


"Good evening, fight fans," Maria began, her eyes locked on the studio microphone. "Tonight, we're diving deep into the aftermath of that unforgettable match between Zoey 'The Devil' Winters and Simon Birch."


A hush fell over the studio as the hosts acknowledged the seismic shockwave that had reverberated through the fighting community and far beyond. The fight had transcended the realm of sports, raising questions about the very essence of fighting sports. Maria, a former fighting champion who knew the relentless grind of the fight game, leaned forward, her fingers tracing the contour of her old championship belt. "We can't ignore the impact this has had on the fighters themselves," she said, her voice tinged with empathy. "These athletes step into the ring, but they're still human beings. The mental and emotional toll of such brutality can be staggering."


Alex, a respected sports journalist with a reputation for unflinching honesty, nodded in agreement. "Absolutely," he chimed in. "But what's equally significant is the public reaction. Social media has been ablaze with comments, ranging from outrage to blind worship."


He scrolled through the flurry of tweets and posts on his tablet, each one a testament to the passionate voices of fight fans worldwide. Petitions had sprung up, gaining thousands of signatures within days. Calls for stricter regulations within the Fighting Tournament League (FTL) were growing louder by the day.


Their first guest, Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a sports psychologist, joined the conversation. "It's essential to understand the ethical concerns," she noted, her expression serious. "In the pursuit of entertainment, we cannot forget the well-being of these fighters. The FTL needs to step up and take responsibility. Something like this should have never happened under the Fighting Tournament League's watch. She was allowed to torture that poor innocent man far longer than she should have under the eyes of the referee."


The studio's atmosphere grew charged as the expert panel engaged in a passionate debate. Among them, Professor Michael Hayes, a sports ethicist, argued that combat sports inherently carried risks. "These guys are grown men and women, okay?" he asserted. "They know the risks that come with the job. We don't need to baby them because one little fight got out of hand."


"Out of hand?! He's hospitalized, for God's sake!" Dr. Mitchell retorted.


"He picked a fight with someone he shouldn't have. There are consequences for doing things you aren't ready to do. Everyone can agree with this, right?" Professor Hayes shrugged.


"He should be hospitalized for participating in a sport?!" Dr. Mitchell couldn't believe what she was hearing.


"There are risks to every sport. I'm just saying if it was me. I wouldn't go around challenging someone who calls themselves The Devil and expect to get away scot-free." Hayes argued.


"Just because of a stupid persona, she should be allowed to do whatever she wants?" Dr. Mitchell questioned.


"She isn't allowed to do what she wants. Why do you think she got a loss for an obvious win? There are consequences for breaking the rules, too, and I say it's fair that Zoey has a loss for her first official FTL match. She should've stopped when Simon was practically crawling away from her." Professor Hayes explained.


The phone lines opened up to fan call-ins, allowing the voices of the community to be heard. They shared their thoughts about the match, grappling with the controversy surrounding it. Some called for reforms within the FTL, while others questioned the callers before them, argued amongst each other, and shared whether they supported Simon or Zoey. As the episode drew to a close, Maria and Alex offered their closing thoughts. They acknowledged that the FTL stood at a crossroads, facing another decision that would shape its future. The welfare of its fighters, the ethics of the sport, and the expectations of the fans all hung in the balance.


"Let's see how the Fighting Tournament League responds to this intense controversy." Maria Collins ended the podcast.




The lights dimmed in the Sports Unleashed studio, and the camera's red recording light blinked to life. The host, Chris Reynolds, leaned forward, his face a mixture of excitement and animation.


"Good evening, sports enthusiasts," Chris began, his voice sounding happier than usual. "Tonight, we're delving headfirst into one of the most talked-about moments in the history of combat sports—the clash between The Devil and Mr. Ground-and-Pound."


The screen behind him came to life, displaying highlights from the now-infamous match. Each punch, each strike, each grimace of pain was etched into the collective memory of the audience.


"Let me tell you, analyzing The Devil's movements on the screen is way easier than in a stadium with thousands and thousands of people around you. Now that I'm watching these highlights on the screen instead of in person, I'm noticing a lot of ingenious fighting tactics and talent from her." He chatted while replaying certain scenes of the match and explaining them. "If you see here, Zoey plays an unbelievable defense game. If you're a newcomer to boxing or fighting in general, BURN THIS FIGHT INTO YOUR WRINKLY BRAIN! LEARN EVERYTHING YOU SEE HER DOING! This is the epitome of Defensive Boxing."


Eventually, it was time to come to the next segment of his livestream. The screen displayed a montage of social media posts, each one a snapshot of the global reaction. Petitions had sprung up, demanding stricter regulations within the Fighting Tournament League (FTL). The number of signatures was climbing by the minute.


"Clearly, this fight has ignited a passionate response," Chris commented, his fingers tapping the desk in contemplation. "We've seen petitions gaining thousands of signatures within days. It's clear that the public is demanding change." He gave a mocking laugh. "Change for what? A softer version of FTL? That's what boxing and those other combat sports are for. If you can't handle the heat, stay out of the kitchen. Leave our violent sport for us real fighting enthusiasts to enjoy."


Many of Chris's fans agreed with his thoughts on the Zoey controversy. "Like, I'm not crazy to support Zoey Winters. She's an excellent fighter. I have no doubt in my mind that she'll become champion soon enough. Well, as long as she doesn't get barred from the organization or something… But that'd be ridiculous. Zoey is going to change the Fighting Tournament League for the better! She's been doing it since she was in the Youth Fighting Tournament League!" Chris's support for The Devil was firmly planted in the eyes of the public.




The Global Sports Network studio buzzed with energy as host Samantha Turner prepared to delve into the controversy surrounding the recent match between Zoey Winters and Simon Birch.


"Good evening, sports fans," Samantha began, her voice steady. "Tonight, we're diving deep into a topic that's sent shockwaves through the fighting community and beyond. Zoey Winters' match against Simon Birch has sparked a worldwide debate."


The screen behind Samantha displayed graphic images from the match, the intensity of the fight etched on the fighters' faces. The video clips showcased The Devil's relentless assault and her disturbing joy at causing pain.


"It's hard to put into words just how brutal that match was," Samantha remarked, her expression somber. "But the fallout from it has been equally intense."


The studio monitor shifted to display social media feeds filled with hashtags related to the fight. Petitions calling for stricter safety regulations, banning Zoey from the FTL, stripping that referee of his uniform, and other such topics within the Fighting Tournament League (FTL) were prominently featured, their signature counts steadily rising in real-time. Samantha turned her attention to the screen, her brow furrowing with concern. "These petitions are gaining traction fast," she said. "People are demanding change, not just for the fighters' sake but for the sport itself. It is unknown what the FTL's official stance is on this controversy. As they have stayed completely silent so far even with thousands of posts and emails sent to their social media, website, and emails."




The Fighter's Insight podcast, known for its in-depth analysis and candid discussions about the world of combat sports, tackled the controversial Zoey Winters vs. Simon Birch match in its latest episode. Hosted by the charismatic Max "Mad Max" Harris, the show provided a platform for experts and fighters to share their perspectives.


The episode began with the sound of a ringing bell, reminiscent of a fight about to commence. Max's voice then filled the airwaves, setting the stage for a riveting discussion. "Ladies and gentlemen, this is Mad Max, and tonight, we're diving deep into the heart of the fucking storm," he declared. "The Zoey Winters vs. Simon Birch match has stirred up a huge fucking controversy in the fighting community. It's time we break it down, piece by piece."


Max introduced his first guest, former fighter and renowned trainer Milly "The Scorpion" Rodriguez. Milly's no-nonsense approach to fighting analysis had earned her a dedicated following.


"Milly, you've seen countless matches in your career," Max began. "But this one was different. Zoey's crazy fucking beatdown on Simon Birch—it's been described as 'savage' and 'brutal.' What's your take on it?"


Milly didn't mince her words. "Max, this fight wasn't just about winning. It was about dominance. Zoey wanted to send a message, and she did it with fists and blood. It was a masterclass performance in setting her reputation in the FTL going forward. No one will underestimate Zoey for anything after reducing Simon Birch to that in the ring."




In a ChirpChat Post by @FightFansUnite:The Zoey Winters vs. Simon Birch fight has ignited a global debate. Some say it was a showcase of skill. Others argue it was a brutal mismatch. What's your take on it? Join the discussion using #FightersDebate #DevilvsG&P.


There was an image attached of Zoey's face and Simon's face staring at each other in the ring. "Zoey's a beast, but it's not her fault that Simon challenged her and fucked around and found out that The Devil wasn't as sweet as he thought. 😤 #FightersDebate" Amy343 responded.


"I've seen worse in the octagon. These fighters know what they sign up for. #DevilvsG&P" Gnarled Fingers posted.


"We can't ignore the need for safety measures. Fighters' health should always come first. #FightersDebate" Tigerfan commented.


"Simon showed heart out there. We'll always stand by him. 💙 #TeamSimon" Drea shared her love for her favorite fighter.




In a GramShare Post by @MMAInsiderOfficial: MMA History Made: Zoey Winters vs. Simon Birch! The world watched in shock and awe as these fighters clashed in the octagon. What's your reaction to this unforgettable bout? Sound off in the comments below! #MMAHistory #ZoeyvsSimon


There was an image of Zoey with her fist raised, mounting Simon attached to the post.


"Zoey is a true devil! Simon had no chance." Asmodeus posted an image of an animated cartoon character laughing.


"That was hard to watch. Simon's a warrior for even stepping into the ring with The Devil. o7" Grant saluted.


"This fight is a wake-up call for the FTL. Time for some changes, folks." Haggis Hunter gave her thoughts.


"Zoey is unstoppable! Can't wait to see who challenges her next." Buysie stated.


"Simon gave it his all, and we're proud of him. Let's hope for his speedy recovery! 🙌 #TeamSimon" Noreen008 gave her support to Simon.


"Analyzing the stats, Zoey's dominance was expected. Simon's a strong fighter, but this was an uneven match from the start. #MMAHistory" chris commented.


"My son and I watched this together. He loved every second of it and wasn't traumatized like some of you liberal pussies. 👨‍👦 #FatherSonTime" Kevin565 posted.


"Zoey's a legend in the making. I dream of facing her one day. #DreamingBig," Katherine Winters shared.




These online campaigns or petitions aimed to bring attention to the brutality of the fight and called for stricter regulations in the Fighting Tournament League. The petitions garnered thousands of signatures within days, and the global outcry against The Devil's actions grew stronger with each passing hour.


"I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw that match. It was like something out of a nightmare. We need stricter rules in the FTL to prevent this kind of brutality. Zoey Winters should be held accountable!"


"I used to enjoy watching fights, but this was on a whole new level of violence. It's time for the FTL to step up and protect the fighters and people like me who are watching from such harm. I signed the petition for everyone's safety."


"I've been following the FTL for years, but this match was straight-up disturbing. Zoey's actions were beyond ruthless. It's high time we demand a change in the league's regulations. No one should go through that, and no one should have to see a grown man like that."


"I've seen a lot of fights, but this one crossed the line. The Devil's reign of terror has to end. Joining the petition is the first step towards making the FTL accountable for the safety of its fighters."


"My heart ached watching that match. No one should endure such brutality in the name of sport. These petitions are our way of saying enough is enough. The FTL needs a wake-up call."




But as the world raged against and with Zoey Winters, the woman who had unleashed chaos in the ring, her thoughts weren't all that worried. Sitting alone in her room, she read multiple comments about what people thought about the match on numerous videos. The joy she had felt in the ring, the adrenaline-fueled high of victory, didn't diminish because people were raising up a stink because of her actions in a match again.


It was like the Donald thing all over again. Zoey didn't really give much of a care toward it. People were too sensitive nowadays. Sure, Simon might be hospitalized, but it wasn't like she permanently injured him to the point where he couldn't fight again. That leg break with Donald was accidental, but he was still fighting and going strong, from what she could see. Simon's face wrapped up like a mummy while he rested in a hospital bed was doing rounds across the internet. She made sure to hurt him just enough to look scary but not bad enough that he couldn't have a normal life or anything.


That picture was usually shared along with Zoey's smiling, fighting face in the ring while she was pounding him into the dirt. Painting her as an unapologetic villain who deserved nothing less than the death penalty, imprisonment, and whatever else these people could think of. She doubted she would receive any serious punishment, if any punishment at all.


The FTL has contacted neither Zoey nor her team, but considering how much of a fuss people are making about her debut match, they'll come out with a response soon. As badass as it would be if they didn't respond at all and treated this outrage like it didn't exist, that just wasn't how the real world worked. People were even donating money to these petitions to have Zoey suffer some kind of punishment. And when money is involved, almost anything is possible.


All in all, this whole situation was just really funny to Zoey. It was just a fight. People are acting like she murdered someone on live television and was still walking free.




Simultaneously, on the other side of the story, Simon Birch, hospitalized from his encounter with The Devil, found himself staring at the white ceiling of his VIP hospital room. The defeat he had suffered wasn't just one that made his bandaged face ache. Simon suffered from nightmares. He grappled with the realization that Zoey Winters, the woman he had dismissed as a phony, might not have been as much of a fake as he thought. It was pathetic…


In the midst of this internal struggle, Simon received countless messages and interview requests from reporters eager to capture his thoughts on the match. The world wanted to know how he felt about being defeated so decisively by a fighter who had shattered the traditional norms of the sport. He declined all interview requests as he went black on social media. While he doubted the world would let him forget this mistake, he could at least delay facing reality for just a bit longer.




Meanwhile, back at Zoey's gym, her students were buzzing with excitement. They couldn't contain their enthusiasm when they watched the match and witnessed their teacher's strength in the ring. Now, when it was time for class, they couldn't even focus enough to focus on their lessons. Zoey gave a resigned smile as she let them crowd around her ask her questions one at a time. She picked on them one by one as they asked her questions after questions. Zoey had to be careful about how she handled them. While it was fine for her to be a fight-crazy individual, she had to temper her students because of the crazy potential they held. She had a feeling she failed with Cindy as the little girl emulated her a bit too much in her superhero alter ego. She couldn't let that happen with the others. There was only enough room for one Zoey in this world.


'What about me, you bitch?! After all, I've done!' Inner Zoey questioned.


'We're one person, stupid!' Zoey shouted back.
 
Chapter 178: The Heroes of Krey.
Senator Emily Reynolds had always done everything to further her career by any means. To her supporters, she was a beacon of hope, an ear for the people, and a symbol of what others in the government should strive to be. The winter air in Eelanos was crisp, nipping at the noses of its bustling denizens. As Senator Reynolds made her way through the city's streets, her smile radiated warmth, and her presence drew a crowd. She shook hands with the people, a firm grip, and posed for photos with children and adults, her eyes twinkling with charm.


Sometime later in her office, Senator Reynolds chuckled softly, her laughter genuine. "Oh, Jackson, this is turning out far better than I could've ever thought. I've already made the necessary arrangements. Winters need not be bothered with such matters. We'll use her likeness, her success, and the data we've gathered to bolster our efforts in other parts of the state."


Jackson couldn't hide the judgment etched into his features. He understood that Senator Reynolds saw Krey's Community Center's success as a ladder to climb higher in the political arena. "Must we really ignore Zoey Winters and not simply ask for her support?" Secretary Jackson questioned.


"The girl's a publicity risk. This is already her second controversy as a fighter, where people actively want something horrible done to her as punishment. I can't risk someone like that besmirching my name and reputation that I've built so far with these people. You have to think long-term, Jackson. From the way she's going, there's no doubt that she's going to get involved in another scandal, while I luckily managed to avoid any controversy over these past years." Senator Reynolds lit up a cigar as Jackson frowned at the impending smell. "The girl will be good for mentioning to the public, but having her as an ally? If her career turns out for the better, we'll try and get in contact. If not, I can continue to ignore her existence." She explained.




With the city's cold embrace as their backdrop, Zoey and her two young students, Cindy and Jack, ventured forth as the city's publically known heroes. They prowled the streets, their breath forming an ethereal mist in the chilly winter season air. Each step resonated with purpose as they sought to protect their community from the shadows that lurked within. Their destination was a place where crime often reared its ugly head, the dark underbelly of Krey's nightlife. The trio had become a vigilant force thanks to Prometheus's help, determined to prevent others from racking up the crime statistics in Krey.


As they patrolled from the rooftops, Zoey's watchful gaze lingered on her young students. Cindy, an enthusiast in using fear and violence to deter criminals, had come a long way since they took down Tears's criminal empire that had reached nearly every crack of the city. She was growing stronger and more skilled as Zoey's Teaching skill from the Box worked its magic. While all of her students benefited from it, Cindy and Jack were essentially getting extra benefits from it because of the hero stuff.


Jack, a stern but kind-hearted boy, had also grown in both strength and experience. His goody-good nature and enthusiasm for heroism were even known to the people of Krey. While Zoey and Cindy's alter egos were known as well, Jack was in the lead in terms of popularity since he was doing it longer than them. Yes, the children were comparing how popular they were to each other because what else would young children do if not compete with each other when their being heroes?


They finally reached the location shared with them by Prometheus, which took them past a group of rowdy troublemakers, their laughter echoing through the narrow alley. Zoey remained on the rooftop, allowing her young proteges to take the lead. After all, this hero thing was to confirm if they could handle it safely and grow into their own. She was just watching over them to make sure they were doing it safely and not stupidly.


Cindy exchanged a wild grin while Jack simply rolled his eyes. They descended down the building, confronting the troublemakers with confidence. The leader of the unruly group, a burly man with a sneer, eyed them arrogantly. "What do we have here? I didn't know it was Halloween already." His group laughed at the joke.


Jack squared his shoulders, his voice steady. "We're here to keep this city safe and clean. That disgusting stuff you brought into the city, we're confiscating it." Cindy's fists clenched at her sides, her aura radiating with violence and eagerness. "Make this good for me and resist. I dare you." She smiled.


The troublemaker's cronies laughed, but a flicker of uncertainty crossed their leader's face. He had heard whispers of mysterious heroes in Krey, and these kids fit the description. Jack and Cindy's unwavering determination and the confidence that came from knowing they had the skills to protect their community wasn't as much of a deterrent for adults as they thought. The drug traffickers didn't understand why they should be afraid of two snot-nosed kids even if they were playing heroes. They were just fucking brats.


Cindy shook in visible joy as the men menacingly laughed as they came closer. "Sure, heroes. I'll just give you my shit, no problem. After all, I wouldn't want no trouble with two heroes like you." The leader chuckled as he reached into his coat.


It was at this that both Jack and Cindy's pupils dilated like a cat as they rushed forward as instincts guided their movements. The drug dealers were stunned as their leader was taken down in an instant by the two kids. Cindy landed a flying punch to his face that smashed the back of his head on the ground while Jack tossed some object that hurt the guy long enough to prevent him from pulling out whatever he was about to pull out. His eyes glazed over after falling to the ground.


Neither Jack nor Cindy hesitated after moving in to take down the leader. While Jack wanted to convince them to stand down after that showing, Cindy wanted another thing entirely. And that was to put down every criminal here in the most violent way she could, apparently… Jack rolled his eyes as Cindy struck a drug dealer with a spinning uppercut to the jaw that made his legs weak. He collapsed to the ground with no control over his body as she socked him with a finishing straight, knocking him on his back.


One criminal snuck up behind her and grabbed her under her armpits like a baby. The drug dealer immediately regretted this choice of action as Cindy contorted like something out of a horror flick as she snaked around him, wrenching his limbs to bend in ways they weren't supposed to. Jack had no choice but to rush in to help Cindy as she was putting this guy in a submission move he had never seen her perform before. There was another criminal heading her way to help his friend. It wouldn't be right to stand by and watch even if he didn't agree with Cindy's methods.


Jack used the incredible material of his costume and blocked the brick that was aimed at Cindy. After blocking, he dove in with a single-leg takedown using all of his strength and weight. They both went down to the ground. Despite losing weight, it wasn't as if Jack got smaller or anything. He was still a big kid, just with more beef than stomach now. Jack reached into his utility belt and tased the man until the built-in safety mechanism kicked in, automatically turning it off because it became too much.


Cindy leaped off the guy who lost consciousness from a triangle choke and ran toward the last remaining criminal with joy in her eyes. Unfortunately for Cindy, he had no interest in being beaten up by children. He quickly ran with all of his might and left behind his friends and the kiddie heroes. Although she wanted to chase and leave Jack to deal with these guys, she still held some rationality. She let out a breath as she centered herself with the meditation technique Miss Devil taught her.


The two watched over the criminals as they waited for the police to arrive. When the police arrived, they waved and immediately departed. The police waved back with smiles on their faces. Although they had their own feelings about children participating in vigilantism, who wouldn't appreciate someone making their jobs easier? Plus, they did the city a great service not too long ago by taking down Tears. Since things are working out fine, why bother making things complicated?


Hell, even the mayor of Krey praised them for their heroic exploits. If they were willing, he said he would've been willing to grant them medals for their work. However, the trio of heroes were hesitant to do any interviews or reveal any parts of themselves to the public. The public didn't understand why they were so shy about interviews and the like but appreciated the trio of heroes regardless. This was thanks to Zoey believing they didn't need that type of publicity as heroes. If they were going to be heroes, they were going to be heroes for the right reasons, not for fame, acceptance, or whatever else that wasn't justice. It sounded cringy as hell but Zoey had to be responsible for these two. She was the adult, and they were the direct product of her actions. As easy as it would be to let them run loose on the city playing heroes, something inside her refused to allow that. It would've been fine if it was just Zoey by herself doing it, but these were her students.
 
Chapter 179: Back on the Prowl!
The moon quietly watched over the star-filled night sky as Zoey went to the beach with Caroline. Tink was flying alongside them as support. Ever since Zoey was exiled from the magji community, it's been forever since she's gone out hunting daemons. Tink has just been living with Zoey's family ever since the trial. It made Zoey wonder if Fairies had their own places to live, but she kind of doubted it. They probably lived with magjistars who they served.


Prometheus gave Zoey a call about a mass missing person's case at Krey Beach. He asked her if she was interested in dealing with the daemon infesting the waters out here, and she agreed. Her body was in tip-top shape, and the side effects of pushing Overdraft nearly to the limit were finally gone. She could hunt daemons like crazy now.


Zoey didn't have any upcoming fights or other responsibilities, so she could go around cleaning evil daemons for a while. There was graduation coming up and a hell of a lot of tests for passing the 12th grade, but she'll get by. Probably… There was nothing some late-night cramming couldn't solve! She wouldn't get A's or B's, but C's were a passing grade in Amerika!


"How did you find out about this wicked creature?" Caroline asked.


"You can find out where daemons are hiding by watching the news. When people go missing or strange accidents are reported, it's usually daemons." Zoey hid the fact that Prometheus told her to go here, and she listened.


"I… was not aware of this information…" Caroline pulled out her phone and started tapping on it.


"What're you doing?" Tink curiously asked.


"Downloading news apps," Caroline answered.


"I want a phone…" Tink longingly gazed at Caroline's outdated flip phone.


"I'll get you a phone." Zoey didn't see a problem with it. Tink was her friend, and she had money to spare.


"Really?!" Tink excitedly pulled Zoey's hair.


"Sure," Zoey responded.


The trio approached the shoreline of Krey Beach, the rhythmic crashing of the waves providing a soothing backdrop to their mission. The moonlight danced on the water's surface, creating a shimmering pathway that beckoned them forward. The night air was crisp and carried the scent of salt and seaweed. It caressed their skin with a cool, refreshing touch, invigorating their senses. In the distance, the shoreline disappeared into darkness, where the sand met the water's edge in an ever-changing embrace. As they stood there, gazing out into the abyss, the moonlight painted their figures with a silver hue, casting long shadows that seemed to stretch toward the endless horizon. Tink's tiny form flitted about, leaving trails of sparkling light in her wake. She was kind of acting like their lantern since it was so dark out.


"How do you think we should get this foul creature to surface?" Caroline questioned.


"I can't swim, so I was hoping you had something planned," Zoey revealed.


"Wait, what?" Caroline tilted her head.


"I can't swim," Zoey repeated.


"Then why did you even… Why are you… Huh?!" Caroline couldn't fathom what was going on inside Zoey's head.


"It is what it is." Zoey shrugged.


"If you can't swim, why did you come to the beach to fight a water daemon?" Caroline had to ask for her own mental health.


"Just because I can't swim doesn't mean I can't kill a daemon." Zoey crossed her arms. Did Caroline think she was stupid? Why would she get in the water in the first place to fight on the daemon's home turf?


"How are we going to get the daemon out of the water then?" Caroline didn't understand.


"Like this." Zoey cuffed her hands to enhance the sound of her voice. "HEY DAEMON! COME OUT OF THE WATER OR ELSE!" Inner Zoey shouted, utilizing all of her Fighting Aura that had rapidly leveled since she started trolling people online.


Silence filled the beach after Zoey's yell. Caroline felt herself on the verge of having a migraine. Was this really The Chosen One's student? She felt that maybe Zoey wasn't as admirable as she thought outside of fighting…


As Zoey's defiant challenge hung in the air, an eerie stillness settled over the beach. The rhythmic symphony of waves crashing on the shore ceased as if nature itself held its breath. The moon, a pale guardian in the night sky, cast an otherworldly glow on the scene. For a few calm heartbeats, nothing happened. The darkness of the ocean's depths remained impenetrable. Caroline's skepticism deepened, and even Tink was starting to doubt if the daemon would listen to Zoey.


Then, from the inky blackness of the water, a disturbance rippled across the surface. It started as a subtle ripple, like a shiver crawling up one's spine, and it soon evolved into a sinister surge. A grotesque, humanoid form began to emerge, its body undulating with seaweed, algae-covered all over its body. A large tidal wave headed straight for them along with its surfacing. The daemon that had been the source of people going missing in the water stared at them with seaweed hanging from its head, covering its face. Eyes like abyssal voids fixated on Zoey and Caroline, glowing with a malevolent hunger that sparked a small sense of astonishment in Zoey and seriousness in Caroline. It smiled as the mini-tsunami consumed it and surged toward Zoey and Caroline. Zoey didn't think her shout would actually work!


Caroline, her eyes aflame with unwavering determination but also disbelief recited her personal mantra, each word resonating with the solemnity of a vow etched deep within her soul. "My mind is clear. My body is healthy. My spirit is pure." Each word seemed to be the key to utilizing her magji as the mahna flowing from her was more noticeable now.


Utilizing her internal energy, she chanted a spell. "Heaven's Barrier!" A large yellow dome formed around Caroline. The large wave passed all around her as she rested safely underneath her barrier. She formed a long staff made of yellow internal energy for the battle ahead, and Zoey couldn't help but be a little envious. Which spell allowed her to shape her mahna into anything she wanted like that?


While Caroline decided to defend herself from the incoming wave, Zoey chose the questionable option of charging right ahead. Tink hid inside Zoey's bra as she utilized Dash and broke through the wave entirely. The water daemon let out a bone-chilling, inhuman wail right at Zoey as she was pouncing toward it. It was a sound that echoed with the agony of taken souls and the wrath of a hungry beast.


Which meant nothing to the excited Zoey, who tackled it to the ground with enough force to cause the sand around them to erupt into the air. As she pulled her fist back, she didn't immediately pound its face into submission. Instead, she chose to ask it a question. "If I asked you to stop eating people, would you?"


It responded by leaping forward to eat her face with its hot horrid breath. Zoey leaned backward as she used the momentum of the daemon's pounce to throw it back toward Caroline. Caroline, who was already ready and in position, caught the toss with her staff. The daemon spine was nearly folded as it crashed against the tip of Caroline's staff. With a skillful twirl of her staff, she swung it against the fallen daemon's skull right back toward Zoey.


Zoey grinned as the daemon was flying toward her. She caught it by the neck, and with a flex of her muscles, a loud cracking sound began to emanate from its skull as she squeezed. Inner Zoey wanted to laugh, but Zoey didn't want to scare Caroline, so she held it in as the daemon's brain exploded out of its skull in a goopy mess.


"Yuck," Tink commented as she flew out of Zoey's clothes. With a soft chant of a spell, she cleaned Zoey of the Daemon's innards as Caroline walked over to them.


"See, my plan worked." Zoey gave a small smile.


"Indeed it did…" Caroline didn't understand why this daemon was so foolish.


Daemons avoided their kind to the best of their abilities. A daemon would never willingly reveal itself to them unless under dire circumstances. Even if they were starving, they'd rather reveal themselves to the public and attack regular people than attack a magjistar. So, Caroline was very confused about why it decided to leave the waters and fight them on the beach. Was it possible that Zoey had something about her that made daemons hate her?


Caroline caught the magji shard tossed at her by Zoey. She tossed it back at her. "Monks have no need for the hearts of the wicked," Caroline told her. "Ow." Zoey rubbed her cheek from the tossed daemon heart. She didn't expect Caroline to throw it back…


"Sorry…" Caroline didn't think Zoey would fail to catch it.


"What now?" Tink asked.


Zoey pulled out her phone and checked her messages with Prometheus. "There's something strange happening in the city, but let's save that for tomorrow." There was school in the morning!


"..." Caroline pulled out her phone and started looking through the apps she downloaded earlier.


On their way back, Caroline pointed out that she didn't see any strange news popping up while she was looking. "That's because you don't know what to look for yet. Daemons are sneaky." Zoey lied her ass off. "But you said-" Caroline was interrupted before she could continue by Tink's shout.


"Do you think I could hunt daemons on my own?! I've been practicing a lot!" Tink excitedly asked Zoey as they flexed their tiny fairie muscles.


"You can, but you'll have to use Overdraft if you want to kill them," Zoey answered.


"What?! But that hurts! It hurts a lot! Like all over! For super long, too!" Tink whined.


"We have to train your mahna control some more before you're ready to deal with any daemons on your own yet," Zoey told her.


"But that's so boring! Ughhhh!" Tink rested in Zoey's hair.


"It's the only way you'll be able to fight like I do." Zoey thought the way she fought was cool, too.


"You train to control your internal energy as well?" Caroline spoke up.


"Victor told me how important it was and kind of forced me into the habit of practicing it," Zoey remembered it was when she was forced along into all those high-grade cases. Fun times when she didn't know whether she would live or die… What she would give for those days again.


"My masters told me people of this generation disregard that type of training. But then again, you are The Chosen One's legacy… It only makes sense." Caroline started muttering by the end of it.


"I don't know how other magjistars do it. I just do what I was taught." Zoey wasn't on particular good standing with other magjistars to find out this stuff. Plus, she didn't want to text Alexander and Lindsay at this hour with a question like that.


"It's a shame what happened to The Chosen One…" Caroline sounded genuine, and it made Zoey feel kind of awkward.


"Yeah, but it's alright, I guess…" Zoey rubbed the back of her head.


She would always hold a grudge against the OM, but Victor didn't want her life to turn out like his. So, she wouldn't desecrate his final wishes by making herself the enemy of magjistars everywhere. Even if the other voice in her head really wanted her to.


'I'm literally right here? What the fuck?' Inner Zoey reminded her.


Zoey smiled as she knew what she said.
 
Chapter 180: We're Switching Gears!
The night draped the city in a shroud of impenetrable darkness, its secrets concealed beneath the faint, distant glow of streetlights that cast eerie, elongated shadows. Poison, a figure of malevolence, lingered within the obscurity of an alleyway. Her emerald-green hair framed her face like a sinister halo, and her glasses gleamed with hunger. She was the ruler of the night, the empress of poison, and tonight marked the expansion of her sinister empire. Around her, a gathering of gangsters, low-lives, and the criminally insane stood, their expressions ranging from fearful apprehension to unwavering loyalty. The mere presence of Poison was enough to send shivers through their spines. She hadn't had much hand in assembling her gang. That was more of Ethan's job but they heard more than enough about her to know that the title Maneater wasn't just for reputation.


"Listen closely," Poison's voice sliced through the stillness, a venomous whisper that resonated with a chilling edge. Her gang members listened closely, their eyes locked on her, their hearts beating with a turbulent blend of fear and anticipation. "Tonight, we are here for one purpose and one purpose only. To get what has always been ours." Running a criminal organization requires funds. Funds that not everyone was happy to lend out to criminals.


She raised her hand, "Let's get this done." There was no rousing speech. Poison saw little reason to inspire them over a task as small as this. Nods of agreement rippled through her gang, their readiness on visible display. As they approached the Slangin' Kings' hideout, the palpable tension in the air thickened. It was an ordinary but high-profile bar. Plenty of the Slangin' Kings were seen heading in and out of this place. Tonight, it would crumble and be taken under new management. With a signal from Poison, her men surged into action, moving like a violent wave, their movements loud and uncoordinated. Guns raised in their hands, and the night ruptured with the deafening roar of gunfire. Bullets sliced through the air, shattering liquor and sending glass flying everywhere.


The Slangin' Kings, caught unaware, scrambled for cover, their panicked shouts drowned by the relentless barrage of bullets. Yet, Poison's gang remained unrelenting. Poison couldn't deny the ruthless efficiency of human weaponry. The ease with which it ripped and tore through the weak bodies of humans was rather impressive. The gangsters fell like sacks of meat, their lives extinguished with cold, mechanical precision.


However, as she watched her victims crumple to the ground, another feeling welled up inside of her. The gun provided a peculiar distance, a layer of separation between her and the lives she ended. There was no visceral connection, no intimate confrontation with the irrevocability of death. Poison had always favored the personal touch, the up-close and intimate method of taking a life despite being a Poison daemon. Her claws, infused with deadly poison, allowed her to feel the vitality drain from her victims, to peer into their eyes as they confronted their impending demise. It was a romantic intimacy she savored. While she could still witness the terror in her victim's eyes, with their desperate pleas for mercy echoed in her ears. There was a difference as one was only seconds while the other could last as long as she wanted it to.


Death and terror filled the bar. Poison couldn't keep herself from smiling as the delicious aroma wafted into her nose. But she didn't lose control as things weren't yet finished. As her men finished off the Slangin' Kings, Poison made it to the back of the bar. She opened the door to the small office that should be back here and was greeted with multiple rounds from the man in charge of Slangin' Kings. Her claws stretched and moved as she effortlessly blocked the bullets with each individual nail, trimming them. Without missing a beat, she closed the door behind her while doing this as he unloaded all of the bullets in the magazine in terror at what he was seeing.


"What the fuck are you bitch?! What the fuck!? What the fuck?!" His gun clicked uselessly as he continued to pull the trigger.


"Something beyond what your little fragile mind could ever understand." Poison slowly swayed her way over to the man hiding behind his desk.


"Why the fuck are you doing this to me? I never stepped on anyone's toes. All I wanted was a little piece of the pie myself. Those costumed freaks and whatnot made this city free real estate for scumbags like us! Don't you think it's a little fucking much to try and kill all of us?!" He began babbling to himself.


"Your fear is delicious…" Poison reached down to caress his face.


His fear overrode any logical action he may or may not have made when coming face to face with an actual monster in human skin. He used the pistol in his hand to attack the she-monster in front of him. The grip of the gun smashed across Poison's chin but did little to stop her innate daemon instincts. A terrified, helpless prey was the most delicious to a daemon.


Her claws easily punctured through his skin as she let loose some of her restraints. Her extended nails reached deep into his chest as she tenderly scratched his rapidly beating heart. "Shh, shh, shh… It's going to be over soon my dear…" Blood was spilling from out of his mouth as he tried to garble some words.


The last thing to run across Tyrone's mind was that maybe it wasn't so bad to go out by a bad monster bitch like this… Poison pierced his heart and pulled her claws out of his chest. She sighed as she wouldn't get to enjoy this meal until she had everything situated here. The humans couldn't get wind of her true origins, not even the slightest bit. While fear had its uses for a leader, there was a limit to its influence she noticed.


Amidst the chaos and carnage, Poison's gang emerged victorious with few casualties. The Slangin Kings were mostly wiped out as the corpses of its members were scattered around them. Poison didn't give any thought to the members that weren't present at the bar. Ethan said there was supposed to be a meeting here for all the important members of the gang, so if they weren't here, they weren't important. Poison turned to her gang. Her green eyes were as beautiful and menacing as ever. "I'll deal with the bodies," she informed them. "You all head out and return to your homes. Next time you all report to work, Ethan will have your pay ready. Are there any questions?"


Her gang members shook their heads as they looked forward to payday tomorrow. With their boss at the helm, they stood poised to get paid for little risk, one job at a time. All they had to do was follow her directions, and they got paid! Who cared if they had to hurt, kill, or commit crimes here and there? Bills didn't care about your circumstances. Families and people needed to eat! And money was the only way to do that.




Krey At News began a special report in the dead of night, the flickering glow of the studio's lights casting eerie shadows on the concerned anchor's face. "Ladies and gentlemen, we bring you a startling turn of events tonight—another dark, formidable gang has emerged right in the heart of Krey's criminal underworld. A new, mysterious gang has surfaced in our city, which has slowly been reviving and eliminating crime rates, creating a storm of uncertainty and fear." She looked into the camera.


"This unknown gang, as yet unnamed, has swiftly risen to notoriety through their audacious and merciless criminal actions. In recent weeks, reports of brutal clashes and territorial disputes have flooded our city's streets, leaving law enforcement agencies grappling to maintain control. As we delve into the depths of this unfolding story, the identity and motives of this enigmatic gang remain shrouded in secrecy. Will we have to rely on our local heroes to save the day yet again? Or will our law enforcement finally step up and do their jobs? We don't know, but we hope to find out sometime soon! We urge citizens to exercise extreme caution and promptly report suspicious activities. Be careful when walking at night, and stay safe, Kreyians. Our news team will continue to monitor this developing situation closely. We implore you to stay vigilant and stay tuned for further updates on the rise of this shadowy, enigmatic gang in the heart of Krey.




In the aftermath of the successful job, Poison found herself seated in the bloody office chair of the rival leader. The air hung heavy with the acrid scent of gunpowder, blood, and other fluids. The once relatively decent bar now lay in disarray, its walls scarred by bullet holes, its floor littered with shattered fragments that shined in the dim light, and splintered wood and debris littered the floor.


Ethan, the young man standing in front of Poison, was lost in her eyes. He possessed a timid demeanor, his fair features accentuating his youthfulness. His soft brown eyes held a hint of shyness, which starkly contrasted the intensity radiating from Poison. As he stood in front of her as she and the fox elegantly ate the corpses of the dead gangsters from the bar, the only thought going through his mind was how amazing she looked.


Poison's voice cut through his daydreaming. "Our next move is crucial," she said, her gaze unwavering. "We gained some extra capital, but we need to seize this momentum and solidify our control over this city." Ethan nodded, his eyes never leaving her. "I understand," he replied, his voice soft but resolute. "What's our next plan?"


Poison leaned closer, her glasses catching the faint glimmer of shattered glass on the floor. "We need to gain control over resources that actually run the city," she explained. "The police, lawmakers, hospitals, banks. All of these petty crimes were to build up the funds to do that."


As Poison talked to Ethan about their next plan of action, he couldn't help but think back to the first time he had met Poison. His heart beat as he thought back to the time he was nearly eaten alive by this dangerous beauty. He never believed in God or the Devil, for that matter. But Ethan had to thank whoever was in charge of letting him meet Poison back then. She gave his life purpose, a purpose he never really had before.


Poison glanced at him, her emerald eyes holding a hint of displeasure. "Are you listening to me?" She crossed her arms. "Of course!" Ethan replied promptly. "Repeat back to me what I said, and if you don't do it correctly, I'll have to punish you. You know this, right?" Poison smirked. That smile felt like an angel was seducing him as Ethan wondered exactly what kind of punishment she would give him…


Their conversation was interrupted by the distant wail of sirens. Poison and Ethan exchanged a knowing look, a silent understanding passing between them. He grabbed the suitcase filled with the stolen money of the Slangin' Kings and prepared to escape with his monster queen. "I'm waiting," Poison reminded him, giving little mind to the incoming police officers. Ethan gave a resigned, nervous chuckle as he effortlessly recited back to Poison her words.


She clicked her tongue in disappointment. "Lucky you." Jinx created a portal for the three of them as they disappeared from the bar that police would soon swarm.
 
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