Chapter 57 — Knives Out
The Afterlife felt different this time. Colder. Quieter. The usual merc bravado hushed under the weight of what Night City had become — a city perched on the edge of war.
Alaric pushed through the heavy doors, eyes scanning the crowd. Rogue leaned by the bar, glass in hand, her sharp gaze locking on him.
"Word is… you're really going through with this," she said, stepping close.
Alaric smirked. "You doubted me?"
Rogue's lips twitched. "No. That's the problem."
She leaned in, her voice dropping. "Come back alive. You owe me… another round. And I don't mean drinks."
Alaric brushed a thumb along her jaw. "Count on it."
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[System Alert — Harem Bond Points:]
Rogue: +5 (Bold parting)
[Total: Panam 55 | Evelyn 63 | Judy 61 | Rogue 42]
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Out back, Panam leaned against her Caliburn, arms crossed. Judy and Evelyn stood beside her — Judy nervously toying with her holoband, Evelyn resting a hand on Judy's shoulder.
Alaric approached, his smirk softening.
"You're really doing this," Judy said, voice tight.
Evelyn shot him a look, half challenge, half fear. "Don't you dare not come back."
Alaric stepped between them, arms slipping around both their waists.
"Ladies… when have I ever left you wanting?"
Panam shook her head, but her smile broke through. "Cocky bastard."
He grabbed Panam's hip, pulling her close for a heated kiss — one she melted into, gripping his coat tight.
Evelyn snorted softly. "Showoff."
Judy just blushed, looking away with a shy smile.
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[System Emotional Points:]
Panam: +6 (Dominant Kiss)
Evelyn: +3 (Playful tension)
Judy: +4 (Soft reaction)
[Updated Totals: Panam 61 | Evelyn 66 | Judy 65 | Rogue 42]
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Alaric pulled back, glancing at the skyline.
Johnny appeared beside him, arms crossed. "You sure about this?"
Alaric gave him a smirk. "I'm sure about them."
Johnny gave a rare nod. "Then let's burn this city down."
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[Next Chapter Preview]
Chapter 58 — Last Caress
The battle begins. Arasaka Tower. Alaric leads the charge… with blood, steel, and the ghosts of Night City following.
(And one last promise whispered into Panam's ear…)
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[System Note: Emotional Points Summary will be updated after next major event.]