Carrick and his team were thrown into a dark cell in the basement. They heard water dripping and faint screams. Domino sneered at them, his eyes shining with victory.

"You're fools," Domino said. "You thought you could sneak into our mansion and steal from us?" He laughed. "We knew you were coming."

Carrick's eyes narrowed. "How did you know?" he asked.

Domino smiled. "Victor thought he was clever, but we caught his spy. We turned them against you."

Carrick's anger grew. "Who was it?" he demanded.

Domino leaned in, grinning. "Someone very close to Victor. They gave us information and led you into our trap."

Carrick's mind was racing. Who could the traitor be? One of Victor's trusted friends?

Carrick's anger flared, but he kept his cool. He knew he had to stall for time. Perhaps Victor will attempt a rescue operation.

Domino leaned in, his voice dripping with malice. "After I kill you, I'll make sure your mother suffers too. One of our loyal servants will poison her, and she'll die a slow, agonizing death."

Carrick's heart skipped a beat. He couldn't let that happen. With a surge of adrenaline, Carrick made a split-second decision. He would pretend to cooperate, gather information, and wait for an opportunity to escape and protect his mother. He now wish he had killed Domino during that raid.

"Domino, you win," Carrick said, feigning defeat. "I'll tell you everything. Just spare my mother."

Domino's smile grew wider. "Oh, Carrick. You're no match for me. But I'll enjoy watching you beg."

Carrick's heart skipped a beat. He couldn't let Domino harm his mother.

"Please, Domino," Carrick begged, trying to sound desperate. "Have mercy. My mother has nothing to do with this."

Domino laughed, the sound echoing off the cold walls. "Mercy? Do you want mercy? You should have thought of that before you crossed me, Carrick."

And with that, Domino left the cell, leaving Carrick and his team to their fate. But Carrick's mind was already racing with plans, determined to outsmart Domino and save his mother. He was handcuffed and also chained to a chair, there was no way he could escape.. unless..

'System, is there a way to boost my attributes without leveling up?'

«Yes. Host just needs to use gold coins. 10 gold coins will give you 1 point in any attribute you wish to allocate it. This is not a temporary boost. 10 gold coins can also give you 100XP. Nevertheless, you can only use this method once every thirty days.»

'That means my five hundred gold coins will only amount to fifty points. I accept. Convert it all and add twenty points to Strength, twenty points to Agility, and then ten points to endurance. I need to be fast and overwhelm the guards with strength if I am to succeed.'

«Ding! 500 gold coins have been converted to Attribute points.»

«Ding! Congratulations! Host's Strength is now at 55 points.»

«Ding! Congratulations! Host's Agility and Speed is now at 55 points.»

«Ding! Congratulations! Host's Endurance is now at 50 points.»

«Ding! Host is now comparable to a level 5 individual. With active skill Undying Resolve, Host will become comparable to a level 10 individual.»

Carrick felt his body tingling, and then he could feel the handcuffs could not hold him any longer. With a slight yank, the handcuff broke in two and he was a bit free. With a hundred points in strength, he was able to break free from the chains. Now his next plan was to free his teammates, steal the crates, and if possible.. take his mother away from here to the Alistair family mansion.

Carrick's eyes shone with determination as he assessed his situation. He had broken free from his restraints, and now it was time to free his teammates.

"Alright, guys, let's get out of here!" Carrick exclaimed, his voice low and urgent. "Leave the basement and return to the ballroom. From there, make your way back to the Alistair mansion. I'll take care of the crates."

His teammates stared at him in awe, still trying to process how Carrick had broken free. "How did you...?" one of them started, but Carrick just shook his head.

"No time to explain. We need to move, now!"

With his 100 points in strength, Carrick quickly freed his teammates, who nodded and quickly made their way out of the basement.

"Be careful," Carrick called after them. "Domino will stop at nothing to get what he wants."

As his teammates disappeared into the darkness, Carrick turned his attention to the crates.

He sprinted to the next room where the crates were kept. The moment he opened the door, he came face to face with four burly Mafia guards, the whirlwind symbol was embroidered on their breast pocket, that was the Gale family's symbol.

Carrick stood facing the four big bodyguards. They were guarding the crates. Carrick was not afraid. He was ready to fight. He was already pissed at Domino's antics, perhaps he will use these guys to quell his anger.

The first bodyguard, a really big guy with a beard, swung his fist at Carrick. But Carrick was too fast. He moved out of the way just in time. Then he punched the guard in the nose. The guard was shocked as his eyes rolled back and he fell down unconscious. The strength behind that punch was terrifying. These guards were level 4 each, so to Carrick, they were a bit weak.

The second bodyguard, a man with a shaved head, tried to tackle Carrick. But Carrick was too quick. He dodged the tackle and grabbed the man's arm. He twisted the arm and made the man fall to the ground. Face first to the concrete floor, he too was knocked out cold.

The third bodyguard, a mean-looking guy with a big grin, swung his fist at Carrick again. But Carrick was ready. He ducked down low and then with the force of a tsunami, he gave the guard an uppercut. The guard was out cold before he landed on the cold floor.

The fourth bodyguard, the biggest of all, grabbed Carrick and tried to hold him down. But Carrick was strong too. He wrapped his legs around the big guy's head and squeezed tight. The big guy tried to shake him off, but Carrick held on. Then with a punch at the back of the neck, the guard slumped and was unconscious.

Carrick then focused his attention on the crates. He possessed a pocket dimension, a secret space where he could store the crates. He quickly moved the crates into the pocket dimension, feeling a sense of satisfaction.

But now, it was time to rescue his mother. Carrick made his way to her room, his heart pounding with anticipation. He burst through the door, ready to face whatever lay ahead.

But the room was empty. Carrick's mother was nowhere to be found. His eyes narrowed. This was Domino's doing. He knew it.

"Domino, you coward!" Carrick shouted, his voice echoing through the empty room. "I'll find you, and I'll make you pay!"

But there was no response. Carrick knew he had to move fast. He quickly made his way to the ballroom, his eyes scanning the room for any signs of Domino or his guards.

The music and laughter of the guests masked the tension, but Carrick could sense the danger lurking beneath the surface. He knew he had to be careful.

As he made his way through the crowd, Carrick spotted Victor, his eyes locked on him with a mixture of concern and admiration.

"Carrick, what happened?" Victor whispered, as Carrick approached him. "We were worried sick about you."

Carrick shook his head. "No time to explain. I have to get out of here now."

Victor nodded, understanding. "Go. We'll cover for you."

Carrick nodded, and quickly made his way out of the mansion, his heart heavy with the knowledge that he had left his mother behind.

But he vowed to return, to rescue her and bring Domino to justice. This was far from over.

Carrick sat in Victor's office, sipping his whiskey. He was angry and frustrated about the failed rescue mission. The quiet office couldn't calm him down.

He couldn't believe Domino had tricked him again. Now Carrick worried about his mother's safety. He imagined her suffering at the hands of Domino and the Gale family.

Victor looked serious, his eyes showing their failure. "Carrick, I'm sorry. We didn't expect Domino to be so prepared."

Carrick stared out the window, his voice filled with frustration. "It's not your fault, Victor. I knew the risks. But I won't give up."

Carrick had a secret reason for not giving up, but he kept it hidden from Victor. He had the system with him. And besides, he wanted to get his beloved mother out of the hands of the Hale Family.

Victor leaned forward, his elbows on the desk. "We'll regroup, plan again. We won't let Domino win."

Regroup and plan again? Not a chance. Carrick had already received a message from the System that he needed to build up his own force as soon as possible, or else taking down the Gale family, rescuing his Mother, becoming the Mafia Lord. All will be nothing but a pipe dream.

Carrick turned back to Victor, his eyes narrowing. "I've been thinking... We can't take on the Gale family head-on, not even with the Alistair family's strength."

Victor's brow furrowed. "What are you suggesting?"

Carrick leaned forward, his eyes locked on Victor's. "We need to change our strategy. I've been thinking about this nonstop since we got back. We can't match the Gale family's manpower or resources, not yet."

Victor nodded thoughtfully. "Go on."

Carrick took a deep breath. "I think it's time for me to build my own force, separate from the Alistair family. A private army, loyal only to me."

Victor's expression turned skeptical. "Carrick, that's a bold move. You're talking about going up against one of the most powerful families in the city. Do you have any idea how much resources and manpower that would require?"

Carrick nodded. "I do. And I'm willing to take that risk. I've been thinking about this for a while now, and I believe it's the only way to take down Domino and the Gale family."

Victor leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. "I understand your determination, Carrick. But have you thought this through? Building a private army takes time, money, and connections. And what about loyalty? How can you ensure these mercenaries will stay loyal to you?"

Carrick smiled, a hint of confidence in his voice. "That's the beauty of it, Victor. I've been thinking about that too. I have a plan to ensure loyalty, and it doesn't involve just throwing money at them."

Victor raised an eyebrow. "I'm intrigued. Tell me more."

Carrick leaned forward, his eyes sparkling with intensity. "I'll offer them something more valuable than money. I'll offer them a purpose. A chance to be part of something bigger than themselves. And I'll make sure they know I'll do whatever it takes to protect them, just like they'll protect me."

Victor nodded slowly, a small smile on his face. "You've been thinking about this a lot, haven't you?"

Carrick nodded. "I have. And I'm convinced this is the only way to take down Domino and the Gale family."

Victor stood, his expression serious. "Alright, Carrick. I'll support you. But you need to promise me one thing."

Carrick stood, meeting Victor's gaze. "What's that?"

Victor's voice was low and urgent. "Be careful. Domino won't hesitate to crush anyone who opposes him. And if he finds out you're building a private army..."

Carrick's jaw clenched. "I'll be careful, Victor. I promise."

Victor's expression turned thoughtful as he paced the room. "Carrick, I understand your determination, but I have to express my concerns. Building a private army is a massive undertaking. Are you prepared for the risks involved?"

Carrick nodded. "I've thought it through, Victor. I know the risks, but I believe it's the only way to take down Domino and the Gale family."

Victor stopped pacing and faced Carrick. "And what about the morality of it all? You're talking about creating a force that will potentially harm others, maybe even innocents."

Carrick's expression turned somber. "I know, Victor. But I'm not naive. I know the world we operate in. Sometimes, difficult choices need to be made to achieve a greater good."

Victor sighed. "I'm not questioning your conviction, Carrick. But what about the loyalty of these mercenaries? How can you trust them?"

Carrick leaned forward. "That's where my plan comes in. I'll handpick each member, ensure they share my vision. And I'll make sure they know I'll do whatever it takes to protect them."

Victor raised an eyebrow. "And what makes you think they'll stay loyal? Money and power can be great motivators, but they can also turn people against you."

Carrick smiled wryly. "That's where my... let's call it 'insurance policy' comes in. I have something that will ensure their loyalty, something beyond just money or power."

Victor's curiosity was piqued. "What is it?"

Carrick hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. "Let's just say I have a way to guarantee their loyalty. Something that will make it more beneficial for them to stay with me than to betray me." He didn't plan on telling Victor that the system has a soul contract that ensures that the mercenaries won't betray him. As soon as they even think of betraying him, they will die an excruciating death.

Victor's eyes narrowed. "Carrick, I hope you know what you're doing. This sounds like a delicate balancing act."

Victor sighed. "Alright, Carrick. I'll support you, but please be cautious. The stakes are higher than ever."

Carrick smiled, gratitude in his eyes. "Thank you, Victor. I won't let you down."

As Victor nodded, a knock at the door interrupted their conversation.

"Enter," Victor called out.

A loyal guard stepped in. "Sir, we've received intel that Domino is mobilizing his forces. It seems he's planning something big."

Victor's expression turned grim. "Carrick, it seems your plan just got a lot more urgent."

Carrick walked out of Victor's office with a determined look. He had a plan and was ready to put it into action.

His first step was to visit the city's underworld, where he could find mercenaries and black-market dealers. He had paid for a list of the best mercenary groups in the country.

Carrick arrived at the Red Diamond bar, a place known for illegal activities. The bouncer, a huge man, looked him up and down before nodding.

"What brings you here?" he asked.

"I'm here on business," Carrick replied with a smile. "I'm looking for Jack Harris."

The bouncer's face changed from curious to cautious. "What do you want with Jack?" he asked.

Carrick handed him a roll of hundred-dollar bills. "Tell Jack that Carrick wants to discuss a job."

The bouncer took the money and disappeared into the crowded bar. A few minutes later, he returned with a rugged-looking man in his mid-40s.

"Carrick, this is Jack Harris," the bouncer said before melting into the crowd.

Jack's piercing gaze assessed Carrick. "What's the job?"

Carrick gestured to an empty table. "Let's talk."

Over whiskey and cigars, Carrick outlined his plan. Jack listened intently, his expression unreadable.

"You want me to join a private army to take down the Gale family?" Jack summarized.

Carrick nodded. "That's right. And I'm willing to pay top dollar."

Jack snorted. "You're either very brave or very stupid."

Carrick smiled. "Let's say I have a score to settle."

Jack leaned back, his eyes narrowing. "I'm in, but I have conditions."

Carrick raised an eyebrow. "Name them."

"First, I choose my team. Second, we get to keep our gear. Third, you guarantee our safety."

Carrick nodded. "Done. But I have conditions too."

Jack raised an eyebrow. "What are they?"

"You and your team must be loyal only to me. No side jobs, no betrayals."

Jack smiled, a cold glint in his eye. "You've got my word."

"Now for your troubles." Carrick handed Jack a wad of cash. It was about three thousand dollars.

With Jack on board, Carrick's recruitment efforts gained momentum. Next, he met Alex, a tech expert with a talent for hacking.

"I'm in, but I need better gear," Alex said, eyeing Carrick's equipment.

Carrick smiled. "You'll get the best. And a 10% cut of all profits."

Alex's eyes widened. "Deal."

Then, Carrick recruited Lila, a skilled sniper with a troubled past.

"I'm in, but I need protection," Lila said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Carrick's expression softened. "You'll have my protection, Lila. And a new identity."

Lila's eyes filled with tears. "Thank you."

Just as Carrick was about to leave the building. The bouncer came up to him and handed him a piece of paper. There seemed to be a note written on the paper.

"Seems you've got a job that requires not only manpower, but also talent. Meet me at Helios Hotel in one hour and we will talk. The name's Maximus Perch of KWE mercenary."

Carrick's legs almost went jelly.. he had just received an invitation from the leader of the Killer-Wolves Mercenary group? The most powerful man in the entire Mafia society? Leader of the strongest mercenary group in the world? Is this a prank?

«Ding!

Host should accept the invitation.»

Carrick didn't think twice and left the building, boarded a cab towards Helios Hotel.

*

Carrick arrived at the luxurious Helios Hotel, where Maximus Perch, leader of the renowned KWE Squad, had agreed to meet. As he entered the suite, he was greeted by Maximus's imposing figure.

Maximus, a towering giant with piercing blue eyes, extended a massive hand. "Carrick, good to meet you."

Carrick shook his hand firmly. "The pleasure's mine, Maximus. Your reputation precedes you."

"Now, before I join you, I want you to convince me just as you convinced the others. Recruit me." Maximus said.

"Alright." Carrick replied.

Maximus smiled, gesturing to a seat. "Let's get down to business. What makes you think I'd be interested in joining forces?"

Carrick leaned forward. "I've heard about the KWE Squad's impressive track record. I believe your skills would be invaluable in my... endeavor."

Maximus raised an eyebrow. "And what exactly is this endeavor?"

Carrick outlined his plan to take down the Gale family, leaving out no details. Maximus listened intently, his expression unreadable.

When Carrick finished, Maximus leaned back. "I'm intrigued, but I have conditions."

Carrick nodded. "Name them."

"We'll only be business partners, not employer and employee. The KWE Squad remains autonomous."

Carrick nodded thoughtfully. "I understand. But before we discuss terms, I'm curious... Tell me your story, Maximus. How did you become the leader of the world's most famous mercenary group?"

Maximus's expression softened, a hint of nostalgia in his eyes. "It's a long story, but I'll give you the short version."

He leaned forward, his voice taking on a reflective tone.

"I grew up on the streets of Moscow, son of a former Spetsnaz operative. My father taught me everything he knew. I honed my skills in the Russian military, then went mercenary."

Carrick listened intently as Maximus continued.

"I met my core team – Starlet, Kelly, and Elixir – during a job in Africa. We clicked, and the KWE Squad was born. We took on high-risk missions, built our reputation, and never looked back."

Maximus's eyes sparkled with pride. A fake expression he had honed in the past.

"We've worked for governments, corporations, and even other mercenary groups. But we've always remained loyal to each other. That's the secret to our success."

Carrick's eyes locked onto Maximus's. "I understand. Loyalty is everything."

Maximus nodded. "Exactly. And that's why I'll only partner with someone who shares that value."

Carrick smiled. "I think we're on the same page, Maximus." Just then he saw Maximus' facial expression change.

"It seems Mister Carrick, that you and I are more alike in more ways than one. Perhaps it's best I tell you the long version of my story." Maximus said with an unreadable expression.

"Why the change of heart? How are we alike?" Carrick became a bit puzzled. The system wasn't saying anything which was unlike the all-knowing system.

"Allow me to tell you the story of my rise to fame. Perhaps it will help you reset your path on how to take down the Gale family."