Kutsk Island, Gear Alley.
Night had fallen, and dim streetlights cast yellow halos over the alley entrance. The air was thick with the smell of low-grade alcohol and cheap tobacco, mixed with the rotten stench rising from the sewers-the distinctive smell of this neighborhood.
But tonight, the warehouse deep in Gear Alley was brightly lit.
"Hey! Boys!"
Kid planted one foot on the long table and raised his cup high. He grinned, baring sharp teeth, his eyes blazing with madness and swagger.
Overhead, a flag bearing a bent gear cast a twisted shadow in the yellow light-their newly made gang emblem, symbolizing absolute control over this neighborhood.
"Raise your cups!"
Below him, the gang members hauled their injured bodies up and raised their cups. Some had bandaged arms, some had gauze wrapped around their heads, and some limped, but every face was filled with excitement and fervor.
"Boss Kid is the strongest!"
"Boss Kid beat the shit out of Schneider!"
"Our Gear Alley is the best!"
Cheers, whistles, and clinking cups swelled into a sea of noise.
Kid tipped his head back and gulped down a mouthful of cheap beer, letting it run down the corners of his mouth and drip onto his open shirt. He raised his arm, wiped his mouth carelessly with his sleeve, and burst out laughing.
"Hahahaha!"
His laughter was rough and unrestrained, echoing through the cramped warehouse and making the overhead light bulb tremble slightly.
In a corner, Killer leaned against the wall, holding a cup of liquor and watching his brother with a warm smile.
His long blond hair hung loose down his back, gleaming softly in the dim light. He did not yet wear a mask-a faint smile rested on his delicate features, his eyes gentle and clear.
Watching Kid surrounded, flattered, and