During their conversation, Zumi announced that he had to return home for some important business and take his high school GPA exams so he could attend college. Carmella and Bethany were saddened by the news but didn't want to keep him from his responsibilities. Suddenly, Bethany had an idea: she could also take the exam and use the opportunity to learn more about the world while staying by Zumi's side. Carmella thought it was a brilliant idea, and they spent the rest of the night chatting.
The following morning, as they left the vampire settlement, Zumi, Bia, and Aurora said goodbye to their vampire friends before heading back to Jasmine's house. There, they checked on her father and continued their earlier conversation as promised. They were seated at a table with Jasmine, her father, both Gale brothers, and Jasmine's younger sister, who Zumi had seen arriving before he left for the dungeon. She was introduced as Lena, Jasmine's older sister.
Lena was a young woman with long, dark hair and striking features. Her large, expressive eyes drew attention, complemented by a subtle makeup look that highlighted her natural beauty. Dressed in a black crop top and shiny, form-fitting leggings, she exuded a sporty yet stylish vibe. The jacket she wore featured red accents, adding a vibrant touch to her ensemble.
She thanked Zumi for saving her father, and he humbly responded, "It was no problem." Zumi then revealed his plan to take over the entire underworld of crime in New York and unite all families under his rule. Each family would still retain their name, but Zumi would be the ultimate kingpin.
Lena's eyes widened at Zumi's bold declaration. A hush fell over the room as everyone processed his audacious plan to unite the underworld of New York under his reign. Jasmine and her father exchanged surprised glances, while the Gale brothers leaned forward, their expressions calculating.
"You certainly don't lack ambition, kid," Sebastian said, a hint of amusement in his gruff voice. "But taking over the underworld is no small feat. What makes you think you can pull it off?"
Zumi met Sebastian's gaze steadily, a confident smile playing on his lips. "I have the power, the connections, and the vision to make it happen. Under my rule, the families will prosper like never before. No more senseless bloodshed, no more turf wars. We'll work together, pooling our resources and influence to dominate the city."
Iruka, Jasmine's father, stroked his chin thoughtfully. "It's a tempting proposition, Zumi. But how do we know we can trust you? How do we know you won't just use us to gain power for yourself?"
Zumi's expression softened. "I understand your concerns, Iruka. But I give you my word, bound by honor, that my intentions are pure. I don't seek power for power's sake. I want to create a better future for all of us, one where we can thrive without constantly looking over our shoulders."
Jasmine spoke up, her voice filled with conviction. "I believe in Zumi. He saved my father's life, and he's proven himself to be a man of integrity. If he says he can unite the families, then I trust him."
Lena nodded in agreement. "Jasmine's right. Zumi has shown his strength and his heart. I think we should give him a chance."
The Gale brothers exchanged a glance, a silent conversation passing between them. Finally, Alex turned to Zumi. "Alright, kid. You've got our attention. What's your plan?"
Zumi leaned forward, his eyes sparkling with determination. "First, we need to establish a council, with representatives from each family. We'll meet regularly to discuss territory, resources, and any disputes that arise. I'll act as the mediator and the final authority."
He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "Next, we pool our intelligence networks. We share information on rival gangs, law enforcement, and any threats to our operations. Together, we'll be able to anticipate and neutralize any challenges before they become problems."
Iruka nodded slowly, a glimmer of respect in his eyes. "Go on."
Zumi's voice grew more passionate as he laid out his vision. "We also need to invest in our communities. We'll funnel a portion of our profits into education, healthcare, and infrastructure. We'll create jobs and opportunities for our people, giving them a reason to be loyal to us. Of course, I won't beg or coerce anyone to follow me, and I refuse to be naive enough to expect blind loyalty without ulterior motives. There will be no tolerance for traitors, and anyone who dares harm my people will feel the full force of my protection. Those who stand with me are extensions of my family, and I will defend them at any cost. Currently, I have the Dojima family and the DreadMire family by my side. Just the mention of these two powerful families sends shivers through those who hear it; they are known as the most feared and undefeated forces in the underground realm. In particular, Queen Carmella DreadMire, leader of the DreadMire family, is known for her ruthless nature and unmatched strength—making her the most formidable woman in all of the underworld."
Zumi's words hung heavy in the air, a declaration of his unwavering resolve and the formidable alliances he had already forged. The mention of the Dojima and DreadMire families sent a ripple of awe and trepidation through the room, their reputations preceding them as the most fearsome and undefeated powers in the underworld.
Iruka leaned back in his chair, his expression a mix of admiration and caution. "The Dojima and DreadMire families... their names alone command respect and strike fear into the hearts of many. To have them as allies is no small feat, Zumi."
Jasmine's eyes widened, a newfound appreciation for Zumi's connections dawning on her. "Queen Carmella DreadMire... I've heard whispers of her ruthlessness and unmatched strength. They say she's the most formidable woman in the underworld."
Zumi nodded, a hint of pride in his voice. "Carmella is a force to be reckoned with, and her loyalty is not easily earned. But she stands with me, and together, we will bring order and prosperity to the underworld."
The Gale brothers exchanged a glance, their expressions calculating. Sebastian spoke, his tone measured. "You've certainly made some powerful friends, Zumi. But what assurances can you give us that aligning with you won't paint a target on our backs? The Dojima and DreadMire families have their share of enemies."
Zumi met Sebastian's gaze steadily. "I won't lie to you, Sebastian. There will be challenges and risks. But I give you my word that I will protect those who stand with me. My allies are my family, and I will defend them with every ounce of my strength."
He paused, his voice growing more resolute. "I am not asking for blind loyalty, nor will I tolerate traitors. Those who dare to harm my people will feel the full force of my wrath. But to those who stand by my side, I offer the chance to be part of something greater, to shape the future of the underworld and leave a legacy that will endure."
Lena, who had been listening intently, spoke up. "Zumi, your vision is compelling, and your alliances speak volumes of your influence. But what of the other families? How do you plan to convince them to unite under your banner?"
Zumi smiled, a glint of determination in his eyes. "I will earn their respect and trust through my actions, not just my words. I will demonstrate my strength, my integrity, and my unwavering commitment to our shared goals. And if some refuse to see reason, I will not hesitate to use the full might of my alliances to bring them into line."
Zumi leaned forward, his voice lowering. "Make no mistake, this path will not be easy. There will be those who seek to undermine us, to cling to the old ways of chaos and conflict. But together, we have the strength and the vision to overcome any obstacle."
He looked around the room, meeting the eyes of each person present. "I ask you now, not as a would-be ruler, but as a friend and an ally. Will you stand with me? Will you help me forge a new era for the underworld, one where we rise above the petty rivalries and build something greater than ourselves?"
Silence hung in the air for a moment, the weight of Zumi's words settling over the gathered individuals. Iruka was the first to speak, his voice filled with newfound respect. "Zumi, you have proven yourself to be a man of honor and courage. You saved my life, and you have shown a dedication to the well-being of others that is rare in our world. I will stand with you."
Jasmine nodded, her eyes shining with admiration. "You have my support as well, Zumi. I believe in your vision, and I will do whatever I can to help make it a reality."
The Gale brothers exchanged a final glance before Sebastian spoke. "Alright, kid. You've got us. The Gale brothers are with you. But know that we'll be watching, and if you ever betray the trust we're placing in you, you'll have us to answer to."
Zumi inclined his head, acknowledging the weight of Sebastian's words. "I would expect nothing less. Your trust is not something I take lightly."
Lena stood, a smile playing on her lips. "Well, it seems we have a consensus. Zumi, you have the support of the Morita family. We will stand by your side as you work to unite the underworld."
Zumi felt a swell of gratitude and determination rising within him. "Thank you, all of you. Your support means more than you know. Together, we will build a future that will be remembered for generations to come."
As the meeting concluded and the others began to disperse, Zumi couldn't help but feel a sense of destiny settling over him. He knew the road ahead would be fraught with challenges and dangers, but with the strength of his allies and the clarity of his vision, he was ready to face whatever lay ahead.
The underworld was on the brink of a new era, and Zumi would be the one to lead it into the light. With Bia, Aurora, and now the support of the Morita, Dojima, and DreadMire families, he knew that anything was possible. The future was theirs to shape, and Zumi was determined to make it a future worth fighting for.
Zumi addressed the Gale brothers, saying, "The Hyatt Centric Hotel has been acquired by my secretary, Gia, and is now registered under my name. Before I make my entrance into the underworld as Zumi Kogane, I intend to use the hotel as my base to gather allies and trusted individuals. I want both of you to manage the hotel during my absence. Should you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to Gia, and she will ensure you have everything you require."
The Gale brothers nodded in understanding, their expressions a mix of intrigue and determination. Sebastian spoke first, his gruff voice filled with a newfound sense of purpose. "Consider it done, Zumi. We'll make sure the Hyatt Centric Hotel becomes a fortress, a base of operations that will strike fear into the hearts of your enemies."
Alex chimed in, a smirk playing on his lips. "And we'll keep an eye out for any potential allies or useful individuals who pass through. You can count on us to be your eyes and ears on the ground."
Zumi smiled, grateful for their unwavering support. "I have no doubt that the hotel will thrive under your leadership. Your reputation alone will ensure that no one dares to cross us."
He turned to address the others, his voice filled with conviction. "As for my entrance into the underworld, I will not do so as Zumi Gold. That name is too closely tied to my past, to the boy I once was. No, I will forge a new identity, one that will strike fear into the hearts of my enemies and inspire loyalty in my allies."
Iruka leaned forward, curiosity etched on his face. "And what name will you choose, Zumi?"
Zumi's eyes gleamed with fierce determination. "I will be known as Zumi Kogane, the Golden Warrior. A name that speaks to the strength and resilience of my spirit, and the unbreakable bonds I share with those who stand by my side."
Jasmine smiled, her admiration for Zumi growing with each passing moment. "Zumi Kogane... it suits you. A name that will be whispered in the shadows and shouted from the rooftops."
Lena nodded in agreement. "And with the Hyatt Centric Hotel as your base, you'll have a place to gather your strength and plan your next moves. Gia sounds like a valuable asset, someone who can keep things running smoothly in your absence."
Zumi's expression softened at the mention of Gia. "She is more than just an asset. She is a true friend and a brilliant mind. I trust her implicitly, and I know that she will be instrumental in our success."
He stood, his presence commanding the room. "My friends, we stand on the precipice of a new era. An era where the underworld will be united under a common cause, where the strong will protect the weak, and where justice will prevail. It will not be an easy path, but with your support and the strength of our convictions, I know that we will succeed."
The Gale brothers rose to their feet, their postures proud and unyielding. "We're with you, Zumi Kogane," Sebastian declared. "Until the end."
The others murmured their agreement, their eyes shining with the promise of a brighter future. Zumi felt a swell of emotion rising within him, a sense of purpose and unity filling the room.