Chapter 34 — "A Deal with the Devil"
(Start of Act 2)
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The Afterlife pulsed with low beats, the scent of oil, chrome, and old gunpowder thick in the air. Mercs and fixers traded stories like bullets — but all eyes subtly flicked toward Alaric as he strode in.
Clad in a black armored coat, half-zipped, muscle-coiled under synthweave, he moved like he owned the place. Because in his mind… he did.
Behind him? Nothing. Evelyn and Judy stayed at the apartment — by his command. They didn't argue. They trusted him.
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At the bar, a familiar voice sliced through the crowd.
"Alaric."
Takemura stood near the back, alone, posture stiff. No Arasaka suits this time — just a battered coat and a sharp, watching gaze.
Alaric approached, lips quirking.
"Didn't think Corpo dogs drank here."
Takemura gave a tight nod.
"I do not. This is business."
He leaned in, voice low.
"Saburo Arasaka is dead. His son… Yorinobu… betrayed him."
Alaric gave a slow smirk.
"Yeah, I was there. He choked on his old man's power trip. Literally."
Takemura's jaw tightened.
"And you — you hold the key. The engram. Johnny Silverhand."
Alaric's eyes darkened slightly, feeling the faint flicker of Johnny pacing in the back of his mind.
"So what's your play, Goro?"
Takemura straightened.
"We hunt Yorinobu. You… help me clear my name. I help you fix your condition."
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[System Alert — Side Quest: Playing for Time — Active]
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Alaric chuckled low.
"Fine. But this time, I set the rules."
Takemura's eyes narrowed, but he gave a shallow nod.
"Agreed."
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As they parted ways, Alaric caught a flicker of silver in the corner of his eye.
Johnny stood there — arms crossed, sneer etched on his ghostly face.
"Teaming up with a Corpo dog now? Cute."
Alaric smirked.
"Stay outta my way, Johnny… or I'll bury you again."
Johnny chuckled darkly before fading.
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