Kai's Position

Kai took a deep breath, his gaze piercing into Ethan's as if trying to penetrate the layers of naivety that surrounded him. The weight of the truth hung heavy in the air, and he knew he had to deliver it with the gravity it deserved.

"Ethan," he began, his voice low and steady, "I know you have no idea what you're stepping into, but you should know this, White Tiger isn't just a gang; they're a force that controls this city. They have their hands in everything—drugs, weapons, even the police. You think you've been living in a safe bubble, but that's just an illusion. You've been sheltered in one of the quietest parts of the city, while chaos reigns just beyond your doorstep."

Ethan shifted uncomfortably, the reality of Kai's words sinking in. "What do you mean? I've seen some rough neighborhoods, but I thought it was just… you know, how it is."

Kai shook his head, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. "No, it's not just how it is. It's how they want it to be. White Tiger thrives on fear and control. They manipulate the streets, dictate who lives and who dies. You think those fights you saw were just for fun? They're a way to assert dominance, to remind everyone who's in charge. And trust me, they don't take kindly to anyone who challenges that."

Ethan's heart raced as he processed the information. "But why? Why would they want to control everything?"

Kai's voice grew more intense as he replied, "Power is everything in this world. It's what keeps people in line, what makes them obey. White Tiger has built an empire on that power, and they'll do whatever it takes to maintain it. They'll crush anyone who threatens their reign, and that includes you if you're not careful."

Kai's voice softened, the intensity of his earlier words giving way to a more vulnerable tone. "Look, Ethan, I know what I'm asking you to do is a lot. It's not just about fighting or proving yourself; it's about stepping into a world that's dark and unforgiving. I get it. I really do. It's hypocritical of me to push you into this when I hold your life in my hands. I could end it all in your sleep if I wanted to."

Ethan's heart raced at the thought, but he held Kai's gaze, refusing to show fear. "So why don't you?"

Kai pondered as he replied, his expression earnest. "It's probably because I see something in you, you have potential. A part of me knows you can overcome this challenge and climb to the top. You have the fire in you, and I want to help you harness it. Plus, I don't have much of a choice either. I told you I couldn't switch hosts right? I would rather you grow and develop your potential than kill you and maybe wander around with an extra ghost companion."

Ethan felt a shiver at the thought, and a sense of relief at how honest Kai was, but doubt still lingered. "But what if I fail? What if I can't do it?"

Kai leaned in closer, his voice low and steady. "You won't fail. Not if you listen to me. I've been in this world long enough to know how it works. I was practically the number two to the leader of White Tiger. I've seen the inner workings, the strategies, the betrayals. I know how to navigate this landscape, and I won't let you do anything that could jeopardize your life or your mission."

Ethan's eyes widened in surprise. "You were that high up? What happened?"