Chapter 55 — Nocturne Op55N1
The city bled neon through the midnight fog. Atop Misty's Esoterica, Alaric leaned on the railing, watching Night City's skyline smolder beneath dark clouds. The storm wasn't coming — it was here.
Behind him, Judy, Evelyn, Panam, and Rogue gathered. No words. Just presence. His harem — loyal, fierce, unbroken.
Panam broke the silence first. "We really going in like this?"
Alaric smirked. "Like we always do. Headfirst… and together."
Judy shifted closer, her hand brushing his. "Whatever happens… I'm not walking away."
Evelyn's voice came soft but sure. "You're stuck with us now, Alaric."
Rogue folded her arms, eyes narrowed in approval. "Let's burn the city down if we have to."
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[System Update — Harem Loyalty Points]
Panam: +3 (Readiness for fight)
Judy: +4 (Emotional support)
Evelyn: +3 (Affection)
Rogue: +2 (Battle-ready trust)
[Total: Panam 58 | Evelyn 66 | Judy 65 | Rogue 39]
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At Embers — Hanako's Fate
This time, Alaric didn't just walk in. He owned the moment.
Hanako sat across from him, posture regal but eyes shadowed by fear. Arasaka agents closed in fast — betrayal in motion.
Alaric leaned in. "You can trust me… or die with them."
Hanako hesitated — then gave the smallest nod.
With a swift move, Alaric drew his pistol, downing two guards before they blinked. The restaurant erupted.
He grabbed Hanako's wrist, voice low and sharp. "Stay behind me. I'll get you out."
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[System Alert — Hanako: +5 Trust Potential]
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They cut through Arasaka forces, a storm of lead and steel, Alaric shielding Hanako with ruthless precision.
On the extraction point, Panam rolled up with the Basilisk. "You're late!"
Alaric pulled Hanako up beside him. "Traffic."
Panam's eyes flicked to Hanako. "This the ice princess?"
Hanako's lips pressed tight. "I prefer Hanako."
Alaric chuckled. "She's with us now."
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