Sebastian paced back and forth in the alley near the event place, frustration gnawing at him like a persistent itch. His pride had taken a bruising blow, and he couldn't simply let it slide. The audacity of that stranger to insult him, Sebastian Ceres, in front of the goddess of the gala! It was intolerable.
Sebastian's fury surged like a tempest within him, threatening to consume reason and restraint. With an explosive burst of anger, he unleashed a powerful punch onto the nearest tree, the impact echoing through the quiet night.
The tree quivered under the force of his blow, its leaves rustling in protest. Sebastian's knuckles throbbed with pain, but he welcomed it as a fleeting distraction from the seething rage that coursed through his veins.
His loyal guardian, Malik, emerged from the shadows, concern etched into his features. The older man had served the Ceres family faithfully for years, and he knew how headstrong and impulsive the young master could be.
"Please, young master," Malik implored, his voice carrying the weight of experience. "You must calm down. This anger will not serve you well."
Sebastian's chest heaved as he tried to regain control of his emotions. He knew Malik was right, but the humiliation he had suffered earlier still stung like a fresh wound.
"Damn it, Malik," he seethed, his voice laced with frustration. "I can't believe I let that insolent wretch get the best of me in front of everyone."
Malik's expression softened as he regarded Sebastian with paternal concern. "It happens to the best of us, young master. But now is the time to reflect and strategize, not to let anger cloud your judgment."
Sebastian nodded, trying to quell the tempestuous emotions that threatened to engulf him. He knew Malik was right, but he couldn't simply let this affront slide. His pride was at stake.
As the cool night breeze rustled through his disheveled hair, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a discreet burner phone, a device specifically designed for clandestine communications. It wasn't the first time he'd used it to request certain "services" from his covert connections.
With a deep breath, he dialed the number he knew all too well, and a voice on the other end answered, its tone laced with familiarity and indifference.
"What's up, Sebastian?" the voice inquired, devoid of any emotional inflection.
"I need a killer," Sebastian replied curtly, his irritation still palpable.
"Ah, straight to the point. Who's the target?"
Sebastian hesitated for a moment. "I don't know his name, but I'll send you a picture. He's become a thorn in my side, and he needs to be dealt with."
Silence descended over the line as the image of the mysterious offender was sent to the contact. It was only a matter of time before the recipient reviewed the information.
After what felt like an eternity, the voice on the other end finally responded, cautious and measured.
"Are you sure you want to target him? You're treading on dangerous ground."
Sebastian's frustration surged anew. "Why? Who is he? What's the big deal?"
A sigh echoed through the phone. "I'm sorry, Sebastian, but he's on a B star confidential."
Sebastian's confusion deepened. "B star? What's How come"
The underworld operates on a tiered system of confidentiality. the categorize individuals and information into different 'stars.'
E-Tier (Entry-Level):
The E-tier represents the lowest level of recognition in the hierarchy. Individuals in this tier are typically newcomers or those with little to no influence or power. They have limited access to confidential information and are often seen as expendable assets in various organizations. E-tier individuals may be unaware of the existence of higher tiers and are usually assigned basic tasks or missions.
D-Tier (Developing)
The D-tier is where individuals begin to demonstrate their potential and gain some recognition. Those in this tier are considered competent and may handle more complex assignments. They have a slightly wider access to confidential information, but it remains limited. Individuals in the D-tier may receive mentorship from higher-ranked members and start building their reputation within their respective organizations.
C-Tier (Competent)
The C-tier is populated by skilled individuals who have proven their capabilities. They have earned a degree of respect and trust within their organizations. Members of this tier enjoy access to a broader range of confidential information. They may lead missions or teams of lower-tier members and are seen as valuable assets.
B-Tier (Advanced)
The B-tier comprises individuals who have risen significantly in prominence. They have established themselves as accomplished professionals in their field. Those in the B-tier often lead critical missions and have access to highly sensitive information. They are regarded as reliable and influential figures within their organizations.
A-Tier (Elite)
The A-tier represents an elite group of individuals who are among the best in their respective organizations. They hold positions of significant authority and influence. Members of the A-tier are privy to top-secret information and are entrusted with critical assignments. They may have specialized roles, such as strategists or mentors to lower-ranked members. The 5 Beast is on this list.
S-Tier (Supreme)
The S-tier is the pinnacle of the hierarchy, with individuals who wield unparalleled power and authority. These individuals are the high elder, founders, or masterminds behind organizations or factions. They have access to the most closely guarded secrets and control the highest-level decisions. S-tier members are feared and revered, and their actions can shape the course of entire organizations or even nations.
The movement from one tier to another is not solely determined by skill but also by one's reputation, accomplishments, and the recognition they receive from peers and superiors. Advancement typically involves increasingly complex and high-stakes assignments, as well as the navigation of political and interpersonal dynamics within the organization or society they belong to.
And in the History, only 1 Person Breach the boundary, Damien the elusive SS-tier figure guard of the President of the Metropolis.
And no one has ever meet him, except few people
--
"B star is one tiers above your current status, Sebastian. You're in the C star, and you don't have the clearance to access information that high up."
Sebastian clenched his jaw, anger simmering beneath the surface. He had heard of the tiered system before, but he hadn't realized just how high up his target was ranked. However, he was determined to uncover the identity of the enigmatic figure who had dared to challenge him.
Sebastian spoke into his phone, his voice laced with impatience. "Listen, I don't care what it takes. I need that man eliminated. How much do you want?"
The voice on the other end remained calm and composed. "To take down someone on the B Star confidential list, you're looking at a minimum of 500 million Zennys."
"500 million?!" Sebastian's eyes widened in disbelief. The sum was astronomical, even for someone of his family's stature. His pride was stung by the audacity of the demand.
"Yes, brother," the voice continued. "These individuals are not your average targets. They operate in a different league. If you're serious about this, the price reflects the risk involved."
Sebastian occupies the role of the heir to the Heracles family, a position that is both prestigious and demanding. While the family's name carries weight and legacy, Sebastian's own fortune is not limitless. He possesses assets, including non-liquid ones, totaling 750 million Zennys. This substantial wealth allows him to maintain a comfortable lifestyle, but it falls short of the exorbitant sum demanded for eliminating a target on the B Star confidential list.
The Heracles family is one of the prestigious Ten Great Families in Metropolis, known for their mastery in water-based defense strategies. They are revered for their contribution to the city's security and their history of producing exceptional Water Marshals who have played crucial roles in safeguarding Metropolis.
Sebastian, as the heir of the Heracles family, carries the weight of expectations placed upon his shoulders. His family has a long tradition of producing distinguished individuals, and his father holds the esteemed position of Water Marshal. The Heracles family's expertise in water defense has earned them both respect and influence in the city.
Sebastian's situation is complicated by the internal dynamics of his family. As the heir, he faces rivalry and competition, particularly from his cunning brother, Sirius Heracles, who also aspires to become the next head of the Heracles family. This sibling rivalry adds another layer of complexity to Sebastian's life, as he must balance familial expectations with his own ambitions and desires.
Sebastian gritted his teeth. He knew that challenging someone on the B Star list was a dangerous game. But his obsession with Adriana and his bruised ego compelled him to act, no matter the cost. "Fine. I'll gather the funds. But I need it done discreetly and quickly."
"Understood. We'll proceed with utmost discretion. Once you have the funds ready, contact us."
Sebastian ended the call, a deep sense of determination burning within him. He knew he would have to navigate a web of secrets and deceit to acquire the vast sum required. But he was willing to pay any price, when he got Adriana, he will get Her wealth too, his father is on the proceed to have him to marry adriana in the coming weeks. The demand for 500 million Zennys to eliminate his adversary is a formidable challenge, and he must now strategize and mobilize his resources to achieve his goals.