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“The purpose of this meeting is simple.” Victoria began. “A pair of monsters attacked the city. Three separate incidents in the upper district, two in the middle and one near the southern warehouses. The Black Sheep intends to put an end to these hunters. As such, we propose a ceasefire between our factions so we can focus on eliminating this new threat to our city.”
The elevator chimed as its rusty gates slid shut, descending once more. Someone new would be arriving soon.
“And since when do you care about this city’s fate? Have you seen the state of it? Crime runs rampant, drugs flood the streets, and people die every day. We’re not ones to judge, but we both know your motive has nothing to do with the city’s well-being.” The white-dressed twin stepped forward, arms crossed. If your memory served correctly, her name was Melanie.
“We care about the city’s well-being because it belongs to us.” Victoria shot back. “It gives us money. It gives us resources. We are its rulers, and as rulers, we need to ensure it remains profitable. And let’s not pretend you’re any different. So, spare me the sanctimonious act.”
“You? Rulers? Please.” Melanie scoffed. “You take and take but give nothing in return. We know exactly what goes on behind closed doors. White Fang, do you know why no one allies with the Black Sheep? Because they’ll stab you in the back the second you stop being useful. That’s why every other faction stands against them.” Miltia, her twin, nodded in silent agreement.
“A family of spies, assassins, and smugglers accusing us of disloyalty? That’s rich. And ironic.” Victoria stepped forward, closing the gap between herself and Melanie, Bayfor keeping close behind. “No, the others oppose us because they lack the guts to do what’s necessary to survive. That, and they let their pride cloud their judgment.”
She let the words hang for a moment before continuing. “The Black Sheep didn’t even exist a few years ago. Do you remember the old days when the noble families tore each other apart? Of course you don’t. You were still in diapers when that happened. We ended that chaos. We put aside our differences, joined forces. That was the only way this city could survive. Through an iron fist.” Her voice dripped with anger. Genuine or rehearsed? Hard to tell. But it sounded convincing.
“And what are you implying we should do? Follow your orders? Believe every word you say? Worship the ground you walk on? Sorry, but this city isn’t yours. As dangerous as those monsters are, we still see you as the greater threat. So why should we agree to a truce?” Miltia retorted, her voice soft at first but growing sharper with fervor.
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