36

Ramirez Gonzales.

I step onto the gravel-pattered road, a place that reeks of desperation and decay. This isn’t exactly my favorite part of the city—it's a breeding ground for wannabe gangsters and hoodlums trying too hard to play mafia. It makes no sense that a South Snake like Michael would pick this grimy alley to settle things with me. If he had done his homework, he’d know that location will never matter when you’re about to lose. Am I supposed to be intimidated by this backhanded environment?

As I move closer, I see his men scattered around, lounging in postures that scream they’re with Michael and waiting for me. I came alone, because Michael isn’t worth mobilizing my men. He’s not that kind of opponent.

“Boss, he’s the Fire Lord for real,” one of the younger thugs mutters, glancing……