36. "Hollows Gang and it's Fangs"

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A man sat at a large blackjack table in the center of the room, his eyes sharp and calculating.

He greeted Hammer and Bullet with a chilling stare, his voice smooth and confident. "Welcome to Hollow Road, Mr. Hammer and Mr. Bullet," he said, his words laced with a hint of menace. It was clear that he knew who they were, and that their reputation had preceded them.

The hall was a cacophony of sights and sounds, with gambling machines blinking in a kaleidoscope of colors, and the scent of smoke hanging thick in the air.

The tension was palpable, as players chased the promise of fortune with every spin of the roulette wheel or flip of a card.

Hammer and Bullet, two seasoned members of the Enforcer's crew, exchanged a silent glance as they surveyed the room for potential threats.

They were used to dangerous situations, but this was different. They were in the heart of Hollow Road, the stronghold of The Hollows, the ruling underworld syndicate of Scion Qing city.

Their attention was drawn to the person sitting at the table, exuding an air of authority that matched their own leader, The Enforcer. Mr. Prime Hallow Fang, as he was known, gave them a chilling glare as they approached and gestured for them to sit.

"Hello, Mr. Prime Hallow Fang," Hammer and Bullet greeted him with deference as they took their seats.

The game was black jack, a cunning card play that required skill and strategy to outwit opponents.

The table was set, and the game began. The cards were dealt with a swift flick of the dealer's hand, and the tension in the air grew thicker.

Hammer and Bullet played with precision, their eyes sharp as they studied their cards and Mr. Prime Hallow Fang's moves.

As the game neared its climax, Hammer and Bullet exchanged knowing glances, communicating silently with a shared understanding.

They were in their element, strategizing and calculating their moves, using their wits and skills honed through years of experience in the underworld.

Mr. Prime Hallow Fang's expression remained unreadable as the final hand was played. The moment of truth had arrived, and Hammer and Bullet held their breaths as the cards were revealed. Victory or defeat hung in the balance.

The tension broke as Mr. Prime Hallow Fang's face broke into a slow, satisfied smile.

Hammer and Bullet exchanged a disappointed glance as they realized they had been outplayed. Mr. Prime Hallow Fang's prowess in the game was unmatched, and he had emerged as the victor.

"Nicely played, gentlemen," Mr. Prime Hallow Fang said with a nod of approval, his chilling glare replaced by a sense of satisfaction. "Perhaps luck will be on your side next time."

Hammer and Bullet exchanged a glance, acknowledging their defeat with a nod of grace.

They were seasoned warriors, well-versed in the art of choosing their battles, and they knew that this was not one they could win. It was time to get down to business.

"Can we talk about why we came here?" Hammer spoke up, his deep voice carrying authority and determination.

Prime Fang stood up from his ornate throne-like chair and gestured for them to follow him.

His stride was confident and purposeful as he led them through the corridors of his opulent place, adorned with lot of eary things like skulls or masks, to a private room tucked away from prying eyes.

The room was lavish, with a single table in the center and three couches surrounding it.

Wine glasses and bottles adorned the table, promising a taste of luxury. Prime Fang settled into his seat with ease, exuding an air of power and control.

"Ahhh! Take your seats," Prime Fang said, his voice smooth and commanding. Hammer and Bullet complied, sitting down across from him, their eyes fixed on the formidable leader.

Prime Fang leaned back in his seat, exuding an air of authority. He was a formidable figure, with his sharp eyes and sharp wit. He exuded a sense of confidence that demanded respect.

"First, we'd like to ask if you are willing to do us a favor," Bullet spoke up, his voice sharp and to the point. He knew they needed to tread carefully, choosing their words wisely with the formidable Prime Fang.

The tension in the room was palpable as Prime Fang leaned in, his piercing gaze fixed on Hammer and Bullet. He took a sip of wine, savoring the taste before he spoke.

"Well, it depends on the favor," Prime Fang replied, his voice measured and controlled. He was not one to be easily swayed, and he expected a compelling argument from Hammer and Bullet.

The room fell silent as Hammer and Bullet exchanged a glance, assessing their options. They knew they had to choose their words carefully, as their task success hung on this discussion.

...

On the other hand,

Vivienne's doubt was palpable as she questioned Olivia's solution. Her eyebrows furrowed, and her voice carried a hint of skepticism. "Are you sure this is alright, and they won't cause trouble for us?"

Olivia, who was already brimming with disdain towards the shop owner and their store, waved away Vivienne's concern with a confident smile. "No need to worry. I was already considering having them expelled from the prestigious Magre Heart due to their notorious behavior, as witnessed by me personally."

Vivienne nodded, somewhat reassured by Olivia's resolute tone. "Well, alright then, as long as it's not a trouble for you."

Olivia extended her hand towards Vivienne, sealing the deal with a firm handshake. "Okay, then. Let me know when you're ready for the grand opening, and before that, give me all the details of how you want to design or decorate your store. I'm here to help."

Vivienne nodded in agreement. "I will inform you, and as for the decoration, we already have a plan in place. We'll send it to you tonight."

Rhiannon, who had been eagerly listening to the conversation, couldn't contain her excitement. Her eyes twinkled as she chimed in, "So let's go, boss and Ms. Olivia, and have a small celebration for this incredible opportunity!"

Olivia's smile widened as she nodded in agreement. "Alright, let's go."

With a wry smile, Vivienne followed her friend and Olivia, feeling a sense of gratitude towards the latter for her invaluable assistance in this endeavor.

Vivienne trailed behind Olivia and Rhiannon as they made their way to Olivia's parked car. Vivienne's curiosity got the best of her, and she couldn't resist asking, "So which place are we going again?"

Olivia turned towards Vivienne with a warm smile. "The same one as before, Twin Angelic Stars," she replied.

They reached Olivia's car, and she unlocked the doors with a click of her remote. The sleek black vehicle gleamed under the streetlights, exuding an air of sophistication. Olivia gestured for Vivienne and Rhiannon to get in, and they settled into the plush leather seats.

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