For three months, Kael worked tirelessly under Ravok, smuggling drugs, securing alliances, and establishing his presence in Velrath's underworld. The profits soared, and Ravok's empire expanded faster than anyone anticipated. Kael's sharp mind and unrelenting drive turned him into a vital asset.
Despite their success, the partnership between Kael and Ravok was built on mutual benefit, not trust. They worked together, shared victories, but always kept a wary distance. Kael understood the rules of the underworld—trust was a currency few could afford.
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Meanwhile, back in Zareth, Kavor solidified his grip on the city. With his growing political influence and brutal enforcement, he became untouchable. Under his rule, Zareth transformed into a dystopian stronghold, its people suffocated by his iron fist. While Kavor's name became synonymous with power, Kael's name faded into obscurity.
But Kavor was not content. News of Ravok's growing dominance in Velrath reached his ears, and jealousy burned within him. Despite his power, Kavor couldn't stomach the idea of another empire rising unchecked. His target was clear: Ravok.
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One fateful night, Ravok was found dead in his estate, his cybernetic arm torn apart in a calculated attack. Whispers of betrayal spread quickly, and suspicion fell on Kael. The tension between them had always been apparent, and many believed Kael had orchestrated Ravok's assassination to seize control.
Kael, though innocent of the crime, saw the opportunity in the chaos. He moved swiftly, consolidating power before Ravok's lieutenants could challenge him. With strategic alliances and a show of strength, Kael claimed ownership of Ravok's syndicate, earning both fear and respect.
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Now at the helm of Velrath's most powerful crime empire, Kael became a force to be reckoned with. Neighboring city gangsters and syndicates sought his trade and alliances, drawn to his charisma and sharp business acumen. His operations stretched far and wide, making him one of the most respected figures in the underworld.
But one name remained absent from his network: Kavor.
Kavor, though politically untouchable, watched Kael's rise with growing hatred. Despite his power, he couldn't stand the thought of Kael, a fugitive, building an empire to rival his own. Their worlds were destined to collide, but Kael, now a formidable leader, was no longer the boy Kavor had framed.
Kael's rise had only just begun, and in the shadows of Velrath, he prepared for the inevitable reckoning with the man who had once destroyed his life.