Following the devastation of the main city, certain areas become uninhabitable due to being overrun by creatures. These are designated Disambiguation Zones, where Aurelia often conducts her missions. These zones are teeming with Class A and B creatures. Zones 1 to 13B harbor Class A and S creatures. Additionally, there are No Hunting Zones 1 to 3, inhabited by Class S and above creatures.
These No Hunting Zones pose extreme danger, claiming numerous lives. Private Hunters are strictly forbidden from entering. Despite this, some Hunters opt for private employment, undertaking tasks rejected by the Hunter's Association. They earn commission from these private missions and they do earn a lot despite the risks.
In addition to these zones, another area emerged, formerly the location of the main city. Now colloquially known as the N105 Zone, it's a lawless city overrun by criminals, drug lords, and other nefarious elements. It represents a hidden underworld, shrouded in secrecy and rife with darkness.
Only those who know know.
For those uninitiated, five leaders control the N105 Zone. Diamonds control the East, Spades control the North. Clubs control the West, Hearts control the South and Joker controls the Central. It is not confined to a single race or species, immortal or otherwise enter this lawless underworld, and all sorts of nefarious things occur there.
There is a rumor that Aurelia is a covert underworld leader, but you are going to keep it a secret.
Seated at her usual spot in the café, Aurelia sips on her coffee, waiting patiently for her companion. However, as the minutes tick by, she can't help but feel a twinge of irritation. Glancing at her mobile phone, she notes that he's four minutes late, adding to her growing impatience.
Six minutes later, the man enters the cafe and spots her inside. He has an unreadable look on his face as he nears her and takes a seat. He then launches into a tirade, explaining to her the reason behind his tardiness and blaming it all on the sudden delay in the train schedule even though he could've taken a cab.
"Alexis."
He awaits a scolding; his shoulders turned in as he looks down at his lap. Aurelia watches him for a few seconds; this man is huge, with broad shoulders and a slim waist. A powerful adversary and her second in command. He can take ten grown men and send them all to the hospital but he's terrified of her.
"Order something for yourself," she says instead. "My treat."
Upon hearing her statement, he brightens up and eagerly places an order for himself using his phone to scan the code to purchase food and drink. She shakes her head at his familiar behavior, knowing all too well that he tends to act impulsively. Suddenly, she lets out a sigh, catching his attention once more.
"Is something the matter, boss?"
"An Elf."
"Elf?" he asks in confusion and lets out a gasp as he knows which Elf she is speaking about, leaning close. "Did you meet the legendary elf disguised as a human being destroying cores in one of your missions?"
She nods.
"Holy shit, is he as hot as his wanted poster?"
Aurelia raises her gaze to meet her second-in-command, her expression turning stern as she notices his evident excitement. Leaning in closer, she gestures for him to do the same, prompting the other man to mirror her actions, eager to hear her words.
"He's even hotter than how he looks in the wanted poster," she says. "His voice is to die for."
The wanted poster they are talking about is displayed to all who enter the N105 Zone. A large photo of him takes the most space and the bounty is shown below with his supposed name. The photo shows his side profile, where he is overlooking his shoulder. An obvious choice of photo because it shows off his jawline.
Wearing a silver mask that complements his silver hair and icy blue eyes, he is dressed in an attire of the same hue, with dangling silver earrings adorning his pointed right ear. These accessories add an ethereal touch to his already otherworldly appearance.
"Goddamn," he whispers.
"No, that's not the problem here," she says as she sips her drink.
As if on cue, the waitress arrives with his drink and snack, setting them down on the table with a gentle clink. Their conversation pauses momentarily as they watch her deftly arrange everything. With a nod of gratitude, he thanks the waitress, his attention swiftly returning to his boss as she prepares to continue their discussion.
"Then what's the problem?" he asks. "Does he know who you are?"
She sighs. "Yes."
He turns serious suddenly. "We might need to start looking to keep your presence secure, boss," he says swiftly. "If the Elf knows, other nastier people might have a better chance of finding you. It's too risky for us to meet here, let's deal online instead."
She nods.
Alexis offers a resigned shake of his head in response, fully aware of the risks and constraints of leading a double life. Aurelia, feeling the weight of her burdens, rests her head in her hands, attempting to find solace amidst the mounting stress that threatens to overwhelm her.
"Give me updates."
Sitting with crossed legs, she attentively listens as her second provides updates on the activities within N105, including whispered discussions of clandestine plans. He also briefs her on the projects she has entrusted him to lead, detailing both the advancements and obstacles encountered. She offers solutions and advice, which he diligently records on his phone.
Alexis frequently acts as her liaison with N105, serving as her representative in dealings with others. With much at stake, she opts to remain in the shadows, ensuring her clandestine activities do not intersect with her personal or professional life. She steadfastly maintains the separation between these spheres, a burden she has shouldered for many years.
"How're you heading back?" she asks.
"Lynux is picking me up."
She nods. "Head back safe."