Chapter 66:

Chapter 56 - going back to the hood (Part 6) - Taking back the street (battle of wits)

A boring life at school, or maybe....


Once we reach there our home, looks like a large group of people gather here, seems like they are looking for someone. Mika is like going out for blood

“These asshole is going at it huh?”

“Yeah looks like it but hang on”

“Hey!!!” I ask Hardware and Mika to stay put while i head out. One of the shout out at me

“Hey homie nice dress you’ve got there!!”

“Well awfully dress thats what you mean eh brotha?” Everyone laugh at me Mika seems to be really upset about it.

“You know what homie, i heard that you going to make things change around here but guys like us ain’t buying it!! You new here and you don’t have what it takes to be around here!!” Yeah i’m been missing for years in this parts of neighbourhood kinda understand what he meant though but i have no time for this shit.

“So what would that be then homie?” I crack my fist the. One of them said to me

“Well we know you and what you have been doing messing up with our boys, we ain’t going battle you with strength but with skill”

I look at him and wondering what he will propose.

“Well then . I’m listening depends on what are you trying to convince me” i have no time for this, and i rather take them down and drag them to the police.

“1st battle - is a dance battle” looks like i need Mika and Mariam for this though

“Alright anything else?”

“2nd battle is rap battle” sound interesting kinda wanted to be in a rap battle

“Then….”

“And lastly a basketball one on one against our best baller” now this got interesting

“Sounds a good offer but how i know you not shitting me?”

“Well, if we win you get out of this town but if you win will follow you homie… so what it will be” Mariam instantly jump off and face them

“The dance i’m dig, loved this” everyone were surprised by this

“Shit its Mariam!!” Looks like they started to discuss again

“Hey homie looks like we going to change this battle it ain fair against Mariam lets make it against two groups” looks like they changing it again but i’ll go with their flow.

“Then what would that be then homie?”

“Dance battle with two vs two since we up the game its between boys and girls then”

Mariam instantly agreed “i dig”

“Fine, i’m cool with it”

“Nice, then let us begin but before that change your gear we going to battle”

“Cool” i change my clothes and Mika change to her normal wear. Mariam asked Mika to be her partner and she agreed while i need to fine another guy. Mariam then asked Amin to be my partner.

“Finally!!!” Geez he is getting excited

“You know how to dance?” I didn’t see Amin dance though

“Train by honey herself” uh huh

“Then we all set”

We meet outside again, to see the guys is prepared with a boombox. We see their challenger and Mika recognise one of them.

“Is that Latifah?”

“Mika! Still the cry baby again boohoo” whoa, they must have a history together

“Never know you can dance? I thought you love to fool around…” some of the guys were shouting

“Ohhhh!!!!!”

Those guys is mocking them both.

Latifah then started with a up front facing Mika. Latifah is an African American slightly taller than Mika who is 5’6 while Mariam is 5’5 they were about the same size. While Fiona is another African American with a really beautiful body.

The gritty streets of Compton, LA, come alive with energy as a crowd gathers to witness an intense hip-hop dance battle. Graffiti-covered walls and the distant hum of traffic set the urban backdrop. The neighbourhood kids including Naomi create a circle, eagerly awaiting the showdown.

On one side of the pavement stands Mika and Mariam, a fierce and dynamic duo with Mariam natural skills in dance. Mariam and Mika getting ready as they stretch and warm up, their confidence is blazing. Their streetwear outfits exude attitude and style, setting the tone for the battle.

Facing them are Latifah and Fiona, they look a formidable duo with a unique blend of grace and power. Latifah's locks sway as she adjusts her cap, and Fiona's sneakers squeak as she bounces on her toes. Their urban attire reflects their authentic vibe, and their smiles hide a competitive fire.

A boombox sits at the center of the circle, blasting a bass-heavy hip-hop track that reverberates through the neighbourhood. The beat drops, and the crowd knows they're in for a treat.

Mika and Mariam start things off, moving in perfect sync as they unleash a rapid-fire sequence of sharp isolations and intricate footwork. Their chemistry is undeniable as they weave and spin, commanding the attention of everyone present.

Latifah and Fiona respond with a dynamic display of power moves. Latifah executes a flawless windmill, while Fiona throws herself into a series of gravity-defying headspins. The crowd erupts in cheers, impressed by their athleticism.

Mika and Mariam are undeterred. They transition into a stunning combination of popping and locking, each movement precise and synced to the beat. Their control over their bodies is mesmerizing, and the audience can't help but be drawn into their groove.

Latifah and Fiona shift the tempo again, showcasing their fluidity and grace with a captivating freestyle. They seamlessly blend contemporary dance elements into their routine, surprising everyone with their versatility.

As the battle rages on, the two duos exchange moves, each pushing the other to new heights. The neighborhood kids are captivated, and the pavement beneath them seems to vibrate with the intensity of the performance. I’m really impressed with it.

In the final moments of the battle, all four dancers step forward, forming a tight-knit circle. They freestyle together, feeding off each other's energy and creativity, creating a mesmerizing dance conversation.

The boombox reaches its climax, and, with one last burst of energy, Mika, Mariam, Latifah, and Fiona hit a jaw-dropping finishing move, freezing in a dramatic pose as the music fades.

The crowd erupts into thunderous applause, unable to declare a clear winner. It's not about victory or defeat, it’s about the passion, artistry, and unity that these four incredible dancers brought to the streets of Compton.

Mika, Mariam, Latifah, and Fiona share smiles and high-fives, celebrating the love of hip-hop and the unbreakable bonds they've formed through their shared passion. But one of the leader of the group said to me

“Alright homie, this is your game I’ve got to admit, they really sick with that cool moves…”

Mariam instantly meet with Latifah and Fiona

“That is some insane moves!!! Love battle again!!!”

“You not bad yourself, Mariam!!”

Mariam hold their hand

“How about you two and Mika join me to the studio!!?”

“Huh?!” Both of the were excited but were confused because of her sudden request.

This time is our turn between Amin and me.

“You ready bro?”

“Are you?” Amin is really fired up

The moon hangs low in the night sky, casting a silvery glow over the lively streets of Compton, LA. A crowd gathers under the flickering streetlights, drawn by the promise of an electrifying hip-hop dance battle. The distant sounds of the city provide the backdrop, setting the stage for this epic showdown.

On one side of the dimly lit pavement, me and Amin, we are black horse among the side, we warm up to stand ready for the battle. Our intense determination evident in our eyes. Amin adjusts his baseball cap, exuding confidence and energy. Our urban attire exudes style and swagger.

Facing us are two local guys, James and Marcus, look like they have a street-savvy style and swagger. James' sneakers squeak as he bounces with anticipation, and Marcus's baggy pants sway with each step. Their urban outfits reflect their authenticity, and a competitive fire burns in their eyes.

A vintage boombox sits at the center of the circle, its speakers crackling with a bass-heavy hip-hop track that reverberates through the quiet night. The beat drops, and the crowd knows they are about to witness something extraordinary.

Me and Amin dive into the battle, our movements perfectly synchronized as we deliver a hypnotic fusion of sharp isolations and intricate footwork. Looks like our chemistry is undeniable, and seamlessly weave and spin, capturing the full attention of the mesmerized onlookers including Mariam and Mika who is actually cheering us.

“WOOOO!!!! ALEX!!! HONEY!!!!” Mariam is cheering us.

“WOOO!!!! BABE!!!! THATS HOW YOU DO IT!!!!” Mika is jumping with excitement

James and Marcus respond with vigor, unleashing a burst of raw, urban energy. James' body moves in fluid waves, and Marcus executes explosive power moves, including dazzling windmills and jaw-dropping freezes. The crowd erupts in cheers, impressed by their gritty style.

But me and Amin remain unfazed. We set a transition into a mind-bending combination of popping and locking, our movements precise and flawlessly timed with the music. The control that we have over their bodies is awe-inspiring, and the audience is left in a state of amazement.

James and Marcus shift gears, showcasing their freestyle prowess, blending traditional hip-hop moves with elements of breakdancing. Their versatility and mastery of the streets are undeniable.

As the battle escalates, all four of us form a tight-knit circle, engaging in a hypnotic freestyle exchange. Our bodies communicate in a language only dancers understand, and the night air is charged with excitement.

The boombox reaches its zenith, and with a final surge of energy, Me, Amin, James, and Marcus execute a breathtaking finishing move, freezing in a dramatic pose as the music fades.

The crowd erupts into thunderous applause, bearing witness to an unforgettable dance battle. Me and Amin are declared the victors, having won the battle fair and square with our skill, creativity, and sheer passion.

With smiles and nods of respect, Alex, Amin, James, and Marcus acknowledge the shared love of hip-hop that unites them. The streets of Compton will never forget this night as a celebration of dance, community, and the enduring power of self-expression.

But that’s all have to end because the next battle is about rapping.

Rap is more than just words and music; it's a lyrical and rhythmic exploration of the rapper's inner world. Rapping, at its core, is a hybrid of spoken word and musical performance that may transport listeners to another world and move them to action.

The words a rapper uses are more than just words; they are weapons, tools, and instruments. Rappers weave complex metaphors, wordplay, and rhymes into their verses to paint a picture of their inner lives and the world around them.

A good rapper's flow and timing are like a well-choreographed dance; every phrase should fall right on the beat. The artist's inner world is represented through the music through the artist's cadence, tone, and vocal skill.

Rap music is notable for its ability to convey tales of struggle and success. It's a forum where underrepresented people may expose systemic injustices and advocate for change. However, it is also a place for artists to open up about their own lives, including the challenges they've faced and the victories they've achieved.

Rap music is a highly competitive field where performers are always trying to outdo one another. The arenas where a rapper's wit and lyrical prowess are put to the test are freestyle bouts. Freestyling is a form of rap that allows performers to demonstrate their lyrical and rhythmic prowess in an unrehearsed setting.

Rap is more than simply music; it's a cultural phenomenon that has united and transformed entire neighbourhoods and even entire movements. People of all backgrounds can find common ground in their appreciation of the written and spoken word through this method of communication.

The lyrics of a skilled rapper can be used as a devastating tool, a soothing salve, a source of strength, and a bridge to others. Rapping is an art form that has proven time and again that the spoken word can change the world, whether on a concert stage, in a recording studio, or on the streets.

With me and Amin is a bit tired from the rap battle, but I had to soldier on. Only then Hardware suddenly wanted to volunteer to rap.


“move aside Alex, this time its my turn” Me and Naomi including others were not convince with his idea but it doesn’t hurt to let him.

“Trust me homie!! Rapping is in my blood!!” This is something I want to see.

Under the dimly lit streetlights, all of us has gathered for a late-night rap battle. The atmosphere is charged with excitement, and there's a buzz of anticipation. On one side of the improvised stage stands Hardware and across from him is Chris, who is going to be his rival in the rap battle. The host is Naomi and she started the talk.

HOST (Excitedly): Ladies and gentlemen, it's time for a rap battle you won't forget! In one corner, it's Hardware of Compton! And in the other, it's Chris, the machine gun talker Let the battle commence!

The crowd roars with anticipation as Hardware steps forward, his intimidating presence on full display.

HARDWARE (Confidently): I'm Hardware, the rap sensation,

My rhymes are fire, no exaggeration,

I'm here to show Chris there's no debate,

I'll leave him in my lyrical earthquake!

The crowd claps and cheers, impressed by Hardware's strong start. Chris, however, takes a different approach and starts talking in a comedic, theatrical manner.

CHRIS (With exaggerated gestures): Hardware, my man, you're all about the tough,

But I'm here to tell jokes, call your bluff,

I'll bring the humor, I'll bring the fun,

You won't know whether to rap or just run!

The crowd chuckles at Chris's witty response. Hardware, now thoroughly confused, attempts to regain his composure.

Oh damn, that is really funny from that guy.

HARDWARE (Trying to recover): Chris, this is a rap battle, not a comedy show,

I'm here to lyrically defeat you, don't you know?

I'll hit you with rhymes that cut like a knife,

And I'll win this battle, that's no joke, right?

But Chris remains in his comedic character, using humor and witty anecdotes.

CHRIS (Continuing theatrically): Hardware, my man, you're all about being hardcore,

But your rhymes are slower than a dinosaur's roar,

I'll make you laugh 'til you're on the floor,

With my humor, I'm the one they adore!

The crowd bursts into laughter, and even Hardware can't help but crack a smile, realizing he's been caught in a comedy skit rather than a rap battle.

HARDWARE (Laughing): Chris, you got me there, that's true,

Your humor's got me, what can I do?

You win this round with your comedic act,

But next time, it's rap, that's a fact!

The host declares Chris the winner amidst the laughter and applause from the crowd.

HOST (Chuckles): Ladies and gentlemen, the winner is Chris, the joker rapper! He had us all entertained tonight!

Chris takes a bow while Hardware shakes his head, still chuckling, as the crowd disperses, leaving behind a night filled with unexpected laughter and an unconventional rap battle.

Now that’s was quick while all of us were looking at Hardware.

“Ah come on Homie you know what….ah shut up” we all look at him and wondered

“Hardware….I think Chris is right, you are a dinosaur…” Mariam is talking to him while Hardware is still in denial of that defeat but seems the rap battle is still on because it has to be a guy and a girl.

Now its time for Mariam to make the rapping battle but Mika suddenly step up and said to Naomi.

“Naomi….I’m not just dance….I’ll show ya…”

INT. COMPTON STREETS - NIGHT

The gritty streets of Compton, LA, are alive with energy as a small crowd gathers for a late-night rap battle. It's tense, and the anticipation is electric. On one side of the street park stands Mika, a teenage girl with a fierce determination and a gift for music, Opposite her is Destiny, a street-smart rapper known for her lyrical prowess.

HOST (Energized): Ladies and gentlemen, get ready for a rap battle that's about to light up the night! In one corner, it's Mika, the young sensation! And in the other, it's Destiny, the streetwise wordsmith! Let the battle begin!

The crowd roars with excitement as Mika steps forward, her confidence radiating.

MIKA (With determination): I'm Mika, the lyrical queen on the rise,

I'll take this battle and claim the prize,

My rhymes are fire, my flow's so tight,

In this rap showdown, I'll shine so bright!

The crowd claps and cheers, impressed by Mika's undeniable presence. Destiny, known for her quick wit, grins mischievously.

Destiny (Smirking): Mika, you may have your dreams, it's true,

But I've been rapping these streets longer than you,

I'll bring the heat, I'll bring the might,

In this battle, it's gonna be a long night!

The crowd acknowledges Destiny's experience with enthusiastic cheers. Mika takes a deep breath, ready to unleash her lyrical talent.

MIKA (Starting her rap with precision): My words are my weapons, my verses so sharp,

I'll leave you in awe, like a work of art,

I may be young, but I've got the might,

In this rap battle, I'll win this fight!

Mika's rhymes flow effortlessly, impressing the crowd with her skills. Destiny, however, remains unfazed.

Destiny (Responding with confidence): Mika, you've got heart, I see it's true,

But in this rap battle, I'll school you,

With every line, I'll bring the hype,

In the end, you'll know I'm right!

Destiny's verses are filled with clever wordplay and punchlines, keeping the crowd engaged. But Mika isn't one to back down.

MIKA (Building up her rhymes): Destiny, you're strong, I won't deny,

But I'm the future of rap, reaching for the sky,

With each verse, I ascend to new heights,

In this battle, I'll own the nights!

Mika's performance becomes even more electrifying, leaving the crowd in awe. The intensity of her delivery and the complexity of her rhymes set a high bar.

Destiny (Bringing her A-game): Mika, you're a rising star, that's clear to see,

But in this rap battle, you'll remember me,

I'll keep rhyming strong, with all of my might,

In the end, you'll know I shine so bright!

As the battle reaches its peak, both girls deliver their final lines with undeniable passion and skill.

HOST (Excitedly): Ladies and gentlemen, it's been an incredible battle! But tonight, the victory goes to Mika! She takes the crown by a landslide with her undeniable talent and determination!

The crowd erupts into applause and cheers, acknowledging Mika's impressive victory. Mika extends a hand to Destiny in a show of respect, and they exchange smiles. In the streets of Compton, a memorable rap battle has unfolded, showcasing the power of determination and the talent of the rising star, Mika.

Mika jump towards me, and hug me with full of passion.

“I did it!!”

“Yeah….”

Mariam was even excited because of this. Naomi was crying

“"I'm proud of you, Mika," Xavier said with a warm smile.

He then spotted Kyo and brought him over to join them. Xavier nodded respectfully at Mika.

"There is so much talent here that I wanted to bring them all in," Mariam remarked as she scribbled down the names of the prospects, while eagerly awaiting the next battle. The upcoming challenge was a physical one, a street basketball match with no rules except to score points. Dunks, three-pointers, and layups were all worth a single point.

“Hey homie this is the final match we seem to be evenly match, but man, this is most exciting time of my life!!”


“yeah at least I’m having fun..” I sincerely did, because all this time always facing a lot of shit.

“Next battle is basketball, like the usual, one of you best boys and one of your best girls to play the basketball match one on one…”

“then this will be the decider of all of this…”


“you got that right homie”

“Let do this!!”

Under the shimmering glow of the streetlights, a gritty basketball court in Compton transforms into an arena of intense competition. The night air is filled with excitement as a crowd of neighborhood onlookers gathers to witness a one-on-one street basketball showdown between Mariam and Leslie. This match has no rules other than scoring points, and both players are known for their skills and determination.

The anticipation in the air is palpable as Mariam and Leslie stand at opposite ends of the court, a basketball in between them.

MARIAM (Confident): You ready for this, Leslie?

LESLIE (Smiling): Born ready, Mariam. Let's light it up.

With that, the match begins. Mariam dribbles the ball with finesse, her sneakers squeaking on the pavement. She makes her move, quickly driving toward the basket and executing a smooth layup, scoring the first point.

MARIAM (Grinning): One for me.

Leslie wastes no time. She takes possession of the ball and starts showcasing her agility, dribbling behind her back with finesse. With a swift crossover move, she evades Mariam's defense and gracefully makes a layup, evening the score.

LESLIE (Confident): We're just getting warmed up, Mariam.

The match unfolds with a series of intense plays. Mariam's strength and determination contrast with Leslie's speed and finesse. They engage in a fierce back-and-forth battle, scoring points with impressive layups and mid-range jumpers.

As the game nears its conclusion, Mariam manages to steal the ball from Leslie with a lightning-quick move. She takes off toward the basket, gathering her strength for a dunk. The ball makes a suspenseful swirl around the rim before finally dropping through the net.

MARIAM (Breathing heavily): Two for me.

With the score at 2-1 in Mariam's favor, Leslie remains unfazed. She dribbles the ball down the court with unwavering determination. Using her agility and basketball IQ, Leslie executes a beautiful crossover, leaving Mariam momentarily stunned. She then sinks a spectacular three-pointer, reclaiming the lead with a score of 3-2.

The night air is filled with tension as Mariam knows she has one last opportunity. She takes a deep breath, dribbles the ball down the court, and makes a powerful drive toward the hoop. With a skillful layup, she ties the score once again.

The seconds tick away, and the crowd watches in anticipation. Mariam has possession one last time. She dribbles and then pulls up for a mid-range jump shot, releasing the ball as the final seconds expire. The shot swishes through the net.

The buzzer sounds, and the crowd erupts into cheers. Mariam has won the match by the narrowest of margins, with a score of 4-3.

MARIAM (With a smile): Great game, Leslie.

LESLIE (Nodding): You too, Mariam. Until next time.

As the neighborhood applauds both players for their incredible display of skill and determination. Well then its my turn to match with their leader.

I warm up, but it seems that this guy talk to me.

“I was supposed to be with the college basketball but because I had no money to pay, I had no chance to play with the best…” some history, maybe Mr Hawk could help him.

“I’m going to play with everything I’ve got homie, no mercy…”

“Then let the battle begins” we both handshake street style. It's the final showdown between two legends of the neighborhood: Alex and Tyrone. The air is charged with anticipation as a crowd of neighbours, knowing they're about to witness a no-holds-barred, one-on-one street basketball match.


“WOOOO!!!! GO ALEX!!!!” Mariam and Amin is cheering me

“GO!!!!!! TYRONE !!!!!”

Both players share a steely determination as they face off under the flickering streetlights. The atmosphere is tense, and there are no rules other than to score points. This isn't just a game; it's a blood-and-grit battle for supremacy.

The crowd hushes as Alex takes the first possession. He dribbles the ball with precision, moving like a blur. In a swift move, he drives to the basket and slams a powerful dunk, scoring the first point.

Its a loud cheering from everyone

Alex (With fire in his eyes): That's one for me.

Tyrone, never one to back down, takes the ball. His movements are calculated and powerful. With a sudden burst of speed, he fakes left, then drives right, leaving Alex momentarily bewildered. Tyrone nails a layup, tying the score.

Tyrone (Determined): We're just getting started, Alex.

As the match intensifies, both players showcase their unique skills. Alex relies on his strength and agility, while Tyrone's agility and precision are unmatched. They exchange basket after basket, with layups, mid-range jumpers, and even the occasional three-pointer.

The night air becomes charged with raw energy as the match nears its end. The score is neck-and-neck, tied at 4-4. With seconds left on the clock, Alex grabs a rebound and makes a daring dash for the basket. Tyrone defends with all his might, but Alex executes a powerful spin move and goes for a layup.

The ball hangs in the air for a heart-pounding moment, then falls through the net as the buzzer sounds.

The crowd erupts into cheers as Alex wins by the narrowest of margins, 5-4.

Alex (Breathing heavily): That was one hell of a game, Tyrone.

Tyrone (With a nod of respect): You too, Alex. You earned it.

The neighbourhood onlookers, in awe of the sheer intensity of the match, offer their applause for both players. Mariam and Amin hug me to congratulate me.

“That is some basketball match!!” Mariam give me a high five.

“Yeah bro!! That is our captain!!”

Look like the leader is Tyrone, he approach me

“Yo homie, looks like you won fair and square, as promise we going to follow you…”

“Nah homie, what I want is cooperation with your group…”

“i’m cool with that and we will of service…”

“About your sports career maybe I could ask someone who could be of help…” I think Mr Hawk will think something out .

“Heh…that is something homie…Compton is all yours…”

Finally we manage to convince Compton, with that the next mission will be the Chinese group.

Mika suddenly said to me

“I’m really sleepy, gotta go to bed…” Naomi suddenly said to her

“Uh uh, we got a party to start” Mariam is shining right now with Latifah, Fiona and Destiny with their talents that potentially for music.

“Hey girls!! Come on!! We’ve got a party to start in Alex house”

“Hey where the hell am I suppose to rest?!”

“Just sleep outside then” Mariam just kick me out from her house

“HONEY!!! You better not enter the house!!” Amin is also kicked out.

“Huh!! But!!”

“No buts!! If I seen you two Bozo even a peek, that will be the last thing you will see..”

“Uh huh….” I’ve got a feeling that Mariam is doing something crazy again especially with Naomi but I’ve got to go somewhere else as well.

“Bro…just rest at Naomi’s place…Xavier already prepared for us for the bed…”

“What about you homie?”

“I’ve got a place to go…” I need to talk to Mr Hawk privately, but I’ve also got a feeling about that another person is going to call me.

Suddenly Mika called me

“Hey babe someone wanted to talk to you” I pick up her phone and its Maruk.

“Hey kid…how are you?”

“Fine sir…”

“About Soro, he is training someone with him, just don’t be surprised got it…”


“yeah, that’s the last thing I wanted to know”

“Hahah, anyway far cousin, I wanted your help…for tonight…”

“Uh huh….talk about timing…”

“Just wait for Soro’s instruction”

He hang up and now I took my bike, Amin called me

“Bro!! Where are you going?”

“Got some errands that I need to go”

“got it!!” Looks like Hardware, Tyrone is calling Amin to join him. I head towards the meeting place where tower city is. Once I reach there, looks like Soro is there but with someone, a kid looks like almost at the same age as Sam.

“Hey Soro…”

“look after the kid for me….”

“I’m not a babysitter…”

“You have no choice rather would you take my job?”

“whatever…” I give him a middle finger. But I’m surprised is the kid is talking to me, what the hell? She is only 2 years old

“From…where?”

“Uh…Compton…” she just nod while taking a lollipop,

“Maruk will meet you there in Compton, its a simple job”

Soro then talk to the kid.

“Just be easy got it?”

She only thumbs up but she got it wrong only giving him a middle finger. Man that’s cold blooded.

“Just make sure you meet your grandfather got it?”

She only nod and instantly hold my arm.

I started my job but gotta asked her name.

“What’s your name kid?”

“Maya….you ?”

“Alex….”

“Soro….stupid…..”

“Yeah he is stupid….”

We head out while I look behind him, he suddenly disappeared into the darkness.

The city streets is dark and eerily quiet as I slowly ride my bike through the shadows. Maya securely strapped behind me in a specially designed baby carrier. My priority is to keep the kid safe.

A sound of revving engines fills the night air. That is something, this pathway is really pitch black. Only the sound of a revving engine could be heard.

“What the hell was that?” I suddenly spotted something behind me

I glances in the rearview mirror and spots a group of menacing figures on bikes is pursuing me. This is not part of the deal.

I grip the handlebars of the bike, my heart pounding as I navigate through the labyrinthine streets, while weaving between cars and alleyways. I know that a gunfight is out of the question, especially with Maya on board.

The pursuers gain ground, drawing closer with each passing moment. They open fire, bullets whizzing dangerously close. I accelerates, my bike roaring to life as I make maneuvers through the perilous situation.

Despite the chaos and danger, damn man this is crazy, I need to focus on one thing: getting Maya to safety. I took a sudden turn into a narrow alley, narrowly avoiding the barrage of gunfire. The pursuing gang members struggle to keep up, momentarily losing sight of me.

As I emerges from the alley, I can see the familiar streets of Compton in the distance.

“Almost there Maya!!” She only nod but I was impressed with her calm demeanour. I’ve got a feeling that someone is look at me now.

One of the gang member is getting close to her, damn that bike is fast but suddenly the guy suddenly passed out and crash at the car.

“What the hell?”

“Its….Soro….” That bastard, he used me as bait to take down his assume target.

I knows we almost there, but the danger is far from over. The pursuing gang members regroup and continue their pursuit.

With the finish line in sight, I pushes my Bike to its limits. The wind whips through my hair as I races toward the heart of Compton. I suddenly can hear Maya's soft cries, and I had say something to soothing to her, assuring that we’re almost safe.

“Maybe I could punch Soro after this…” she nod and giggle at me

“Yeah…!!” She become spirited

Surprisingly I don’t see anymore of the gang members behind me.

Finally, we reach Compton's well-lit streets, where the atmosphere changes. It become peaceful.

Alex breathes a sigh of relief as I slows down and safely reaches the destination. I dismounts from the bike, carefully unstrapping Maya from the carrier. Maya clings to me, safe and unharmed.

Alex (Whispering to Maya): “ We made it, Maya. Back in one piece, you’re safe now.”

Maya then kiss my cheeks and smile at me

“thanks….Mr Alex….” She is really cute but I already see Maruk waiting for her.

“Maya….” She run towards Maruk, Maruk smile at me.

“I never expected that you never pull that gun of your’s….”

“I told you I made a promise…”

“Well at least she is safe….plus about Damien….he is targeting the Chinese largest family, the one that involved with the 102, your old gang…”

The old Chinese gang, could it be the Yù Shī Huì family of the Lotus Jade family

“Jade Lotus…”

“Yep that’s the one.. the least I could repay for the help that you give…”

“Ah, its nothing…” Maya then hugged me and said to me

“You…happy…. inside…sad…” I knee down towards her and said to her

“Yeah, everybody does…” she is smiling and kiss me again

“thanks…” she heads back with Maruk and instantly disappears again. They really like a ghost. At least I’m done my job. Gotta head back to my house but I forgotten about something. I head there without any care, I entered the room but instantly something hit my head and I went blank. What the hell?