The bald giant excitedly tugged at his mask so he could take a couple of easy breaths, then the guy who'd been press-ganged into service grinned and said, "My name is Artest...
We didn't really help with anything. It was all thanks to Boss Alexei..."
Alvin waved off Bald Artest's "false modesty" and smiled. "We can see what you've done. Your fallen comrades will have proper funerals, and their families will receive generous compensation...
If you're willing to give up your old 'business,' I can introduce you to a new job...
Would you be interested?"
How could Bald Artest possibly refuse? What had he been working so hard for?
First, to keep himself alive. Second, to hear those very words from Alvin...
Bald Artest nodded frantically and said, "I'd love to! Serving Mr. Battleaxe has always been my dream...
Oh, um, could I call you 'Principal Alvin'?"
Alvin looked at the cunning guy who was trying his hardest to join Hell's Kitchen's "camp." He smiled and nodded. "What you call me is up to you..."
Then Alvin gestured in a circle over his head and smiled. "Harlem will soon undergo a massive redevelopment. If you want to leave your old identity behind, this is a great opportunity...
A few days ago, you asked me if this place could become another Hell's Kitchen.
To be honest, I'm not sure yet!
Because the first thing that has to change if you want to transform a neighborhood is the people who live there.
It depends on your resolve...
You can't expect me to tell the cops to turn a blind eye to the crap you've pulled, can you?"
Bald Artest nodded repeatedly. "Yes, yes...
Um, but why does this place need to be rebuilt?"
The local tough looked around, puzzled. "There's nothing wrong