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Chapter 13: The Currency of Power
Lex Navarro sat in a dimly lit backroom of one of Los Soles' many safehouses. The walls were covered in peeling paint, and the table in front of him was scarred with cigarette burns. Across the table sat Marco, his usual smirk replaced by a rare expression of seriousness.
"You did good in the tournament, Navarro," Marco said, lighting a cigarette. "You didn't just win—you made an impression. That means something in this world."
Lex leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable. "What happens now?"
Marco exhaled a cloud of smoke, leaning forward. "Now, you start climbing. The tournament earned you points—enough to jump a rank. But I don't think you understand just how this works yet. So, let me break it down for you."
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The System of Points
Marco pulled a crumpled piece of paper from his pocket, spreading it on the table. On it was a crude chart, listing ranks and their corresponding points.
"In Los Soles, rank isn't just about how long you've been around," Marco explained. "It's about what you've done. Every fight you win, every job you complete, every peso you bring in—it all adds to your points. The more points you have, the higher your rank. Simple."
Lex studied the chart, his sharp eyes taking in every detail.
The Ranks of Los Soles:
1. Peón (Pawn): 0–99 points.
These are the grunts, the fresh recruits. They run errands, deal with street-level jobs, and earn just enough respect to avoid getting stomped on.
No privileges, no perks.
2. Soldado (Soldier): 100–499 points.
The backbone of the gang. They handle small-time deals, guard operations, and occasionally lead crews of peones.
Access to basic equipment like handguns and knives.
3. Teniente (Lieutenant): 500–999 points.
Trusted members who oversee territories or operations. They're responsible for mentoring lower ranks and keeping them in line.
Access to higher-grade weapons and protective gear like bulletproof vests.
4. Capitán (Captain): 1,000–2,499 points.
Regional leaders who coordinate between lieutenants and the higher-ups. They report directly to the Jefes.
Perks include armored vehicles, access to smuggling routes, and a cut of larger profits.
5. Jefe (Boss): 2,500+ points.
The elite. Jefes run entire sectors of Los Soles' empire. They dictate strategy, negotiate alliances, and decide who lives and dies.
Practically untouchable, with access to the cartel's full resources.
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Earning Points
Marco tapped the chart with his finger. "You start as a peón, like everyone else. But you? That tournament win earned you 600 points. You're a teniente now."
Lex's eyebrows rose slightly, though he kept his tone neutral. "What does that mean?"
"It means you've got responsibility," Marco said. "You'll get your own crew, your own territory, and access to resources. But it also means the bosses are watching you. Screw up, and you lose points—or worse."
"And the points?" Lex asked. "What can I do with them?"
Marco grinned, leaning back in his chair. "Points are currency. You need a gun? Spend points. You want a better vest? Spend points. Hell, you can even buy a favor from someone higher up if you've got enough. But use them wisely. Spend too much, and you drop rank."
Lex nodded, his mind already spinning with possibilities.
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The Weight of Rank
The promotion wasn't just about perks. It came with expectations. As a teniente, Lex would be responsible for overseeing peones and managing operations within a small territory. It was a step up from street-level deals, but it also meant more risk.
Marco leaned forward, his expression turning serious. "The bosses like you, Navarro. But that can change in an instant. They're giving you this chance because you proved yourself. Don't waste it."
"I won't," Lex said, his voice steady.
Marco smirked, tossing him a small notebook. "Good. Here's your territory. Start building your crew. And remember—every move you make either adds to your points or costs you. Make them count."
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A New Beginning
As Lex left the safehouse, the weight of his promotion settled on his shoulders. He had stepped into a new world, one where every decision carried consequences. The points weren't just a measure of rank—they were a measure of power. And Lex Navarro intended to climb higher than anyone had before.
For now, though, he had a crew to build and a territory to secure.
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