Two long, rectangular packages were brought forward by the office staff and handed over to Na and Darno. The two men exchanged a look of pure confusion, their eyebrows shooting up in unison. They had no idea what was happening or why Max was presenting them with gifts; after all, he had already authorized a substantial financial bonus for their successful operation against the Gilt Rats.
As they tore into the packaging at the same time, their eyes widened, reflecting the metallic sheen of what lay inside.
’I guess Wolf was right,’ Max thought, a small, satisfied smirk playing on his lips as he watched their reactions. ’They really do appreciate the gesture. I’m actually a bit surprised that even Na seems touched by it. He’s usually so hard to read.’
"Damn, this is incredible!" Darno exclaims, lifting the contents of the box. "Can I try it on right now? I want to see how it looks in the mirror."
"I would save it for special occasions," Max advised, his tone shifting back to that of a leader. "Those items signify that you are now a core part of the Billion Bloodline group. You aren’t just hired muscle or temporary associates anymore. When you wear those, you represent the Bloodline in every way, just like the rest of the inner circle. You’ve proven your loyalty and your worth. If you accept the gift, you accept the responsibility that comes with it. You should only wear them when you’re truly needed for the heavy lifting."
They understood the gravity of his words immediately. The "gift" was more than just equipment; it was a badge of office. The two of them nodded solemnly.
"Well, you don’t have to ask me twice," Darno said, his usual cocky grin returning. "I’ve wanted one of these ever since I saw the others wearing them. It’s like a rite of passage."
Na remained a bit more hesitant, his fingers tracing the fabric. "I already have my own Vow to keep me busy, but I will accept this as well. It’s an honor."
With that silent agreement, two new Rangers were officially added to the upper echelons of the group. As for when they would make their public debut in their new colors, only time would tell.
Max glanced at his watch. The hands were ticking toward the evening hours, and he imagined the other students were already gathering for the senior event. He couldn’t help but wonder exactly what Donto had planned for the unsuspecting freshmen.
The gathering was taking place at a massive, multi-level bowling facility on the edge of the campus district. It was a famous local spot; during the day, it was a family-friendly alley, but at night, half the building transformed into a high-end nightclub capable of accommodating thousands of guests.



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