Chapter 23: A Pact with Shadows

Jihan's mind raced as he studied the Broker.

She was different from the Syndicate thugs—calm, calculating, and completely in control.

But that didn't mean he trusted her.

"Who are you really?" Jihan asked, his voice steady.

The Broker smirked. "Someone who understands power better than you do."

Jihan's eyes narrowed. "Then prove it. Tell me who's pulling the strings behind the Syndicate."

She chuckled, stepping closer. "You think taking down a few enforcers means you've seen the real picture?"

She reached into her coat, pulling out a sleek tablet. With a tap, a digital map of the city illuminated the screen, covered in red markings.

"This," she gestured, "is the true hierarchy of power."

Jihan's gaze locked onto the map.

Different factions. Rival leaders. Secret organizations.

At the center was a single name: Black Crown.

His jaw tightened. "Who are they?"

The Broker's smirk vanished. "The ones who truly run this city."

The Real War Begins

Jihan clenched his fists. "So, the Syndicate is just a pawn?"

The Broker nodded. "A strong one, but still just a piece on the board."

She turned the screen off. "You want to climb higher? You need to start thinking beyond street fights and gang wars. You need strategy."

Jihan crossed his arms. "And you expect me to just follow your lead?"

The Broker's eyes glinted. "No. I expect you to work with me."

Jihan scoffed. "Why would I do that?"

She stepped forward, lowering her voice. "Because if you don't, the Black Crown will kill you before you even get the chance to fight."

The words sent a chill down Jihan's spine.

This wasn't just about the Syndicate anymore.

This was bigger.

A Dangerous Proposal

The Broker extended her hand. "You need intel. I need muscle. Together, we can break the system."

Jihan stared at her hand, his mind calculating the risks. Could he trust her? Or was this another trap?

After a long moment, he smirked. "Fine."

He shook her hand.

The Broker smiled. "Welcome to the real war."

New Mission Unlocked: Shadow Conspiracy

Objective: Uncover the secrets of Black Crown.

Jihan exhaled.

This was only the beginning.