36

To maintain the original chapter's length and essence while improving readability and consistency, here's the revised version:

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Chapter 36 - The Real Assassin and S.H.I.E.L.D.

"A certain anime's super player!" Locke exclaimed.

Originally, Locke had agreed with the Red Devils to store a ledger page from the New York Brotherhood in a Manhattan Harbor warehouse. He planned to notify them once it was secured, but the Red Devils changed the rendezvous to the Continental Hotel.

Locke had no objections. The Continental Hotel enforced a strict no-violence policy, becoming a sanctuary in the killer world. No one dared to break this rule, not even for revenge, as exemplified by the tale of John Wick's dog.

Reflecting on this, Locke felt fortunate. Despite being an orphan, the existence of such sanctuaries like the Continental Hotel in Texas allowed him to live comfortably.

"The news of you dismantling the New York Brotherhood has spread across the dark world," the Red Devils informed him.

The NYPD claimed credit, but those in the underworld knew better.

Locke chuckled, observing the patrons at the bar who were clearly his peers. Their eyes shifted away from him upon his gaze.

Raising his phone, Locke said, "You had Dumby meet me for more than just sharing this obvious news."

Destroying the Brotherhood had elevated Locke's reputation, as expected.

This was advantageous, possibly increasing his fee for assignments.

"The real reason," the Red Devils continued, "is that several organizations are interested in recruiting or eliminating you. Two stand out, and one is already on the move."

Locke raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh?"

It was predictable that his actions against the New York Brotherhood, a notable player in the dark world, would stir reactions.

"One is the Roman Brotherhood, revived three years ago by Callum Lynch. They trace their lineage back to the Medieval Revolution," the Red Devils explained.

Locke pondered, "I'm not familiar with them."

"They're genuine assassins compared to the tainted New York Brotherhood."

"Why would they come after me? Revenge?"

"No, rumors suggest the New York Brotherhood had something they wanted. Now that you've dismantled them, it likely falls to you."

"I have nothing," Locke stated plainly. "If anything exists, it's with the NYPD."

The Red Devils chuckled, "You claim innocence, but I doubt you took nothing. Regardless, if they come, be prepared to deal with them."

New York Brotherhood, Roman Brotherhood—what a tangled web.

"Why didn't they act when the New York Brotherhood was active or in turmoil?" Locke wondered aloud. "Why now, after their demise?"

"If they seek death, let them come," Locke declared. "I'm prepared to oblige."

"Don't worry, my friend. I hold no ill will toward you."

"Ha, I know. But if you did, Dumby would be in trouble," Locke joked, gesturing playfully to Dumby across from him.

The Red Devils nodded solemnly. "There's another organization interested in you. I'm unsure of their identity."

"What?" Locke frowned at the seriousness in the Red Devils' tone. "Is there anything in the criminal world you don't know?"

"I'm not all-knowing, Locke," the Red Devils replied. "This mysterious group has been elusive for three years. Even I only recently confirmed their existence."

"A secret society? Snake Shield?" Locke guessed.

The Red Devils shook his head. "Do you know Victoria Knox?"

Locke smiled, recalling his arms supplier. "Blonde, charming. She was my first supplier when I started in Texas."

Victoria Knox had supported him from the beginning, even offering credit when he had none.

"I planned to contact her again recently," Locke admitted. "But I haven't."

"Two weeks ago, Victoria Knox was ambushed in Chechnya during a deal," the Red Devils revealed.

"Dead?" Locke asked, concerned.

"No, she was captured. This mysterious organization is likely behind it."

"No way," Locke murmured. Victoria Knox was skilled—she wouldn't be easy to capture.

"My sources are reliable," the Red Devils assured him. "There are whispers that this organization now has you in their sights. Be cautious, and if possible, help me gather intel on them."

Locke grinned, "So, should I be careful or take your assignment?"

"You're my friend. I want you safe," the Red Devils replied. "As for the reward, it depends on the information you can provide."

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