OVERCOME

OVERCOME CHAPTER 9

Following the intense classroom violence, the school's atmosphere turned tense and uncertain. News of the fight reached the ears of higher-ranking gang members, particularly the Red God gang. They gathered in Class 1A to reassert dominance and address the incident.

Zeke, Mikey, Jax, and Erlik realized the dangerous line they had crossed. Consequences loomed, as they anticipated facing the wrath of more powerful gang members. As the Red God-influenced students from neighboring classes gathered in Class 1A, it looked like a big fight might break out, with around 20 poised for action. The classroom was tense, and the situation seemed on the brink of a full-scale conflict. However, just when it seemed things might get ugly, one of the Red God members received a message that stopped them in their tracks. He quickly shared this message, and it directed the group to retreat. This unexpected twist left Zeke, Mikey, Jax, and Erlik surprised and relieved. Slowly, the classroom returned to normal.

As the school day progressed and classes ended, Erlik and the Red God members received a mysterious message, prompting them to gather. Erlik, sensing something unusual, informed Zeke, Mikey, and Jax that he had some school-related matters to attend to, and the three of them went home.

On the other side of the school, behind a closed, spacious room, all the Red God members had gathered. In the center, ten members who had previously bullied Zeke were present, covered in blood and kneeling on the floor. Willie Dean, their leader, had blood on his hands, and the sight sent shivers down the spines of those who had assembled.

Amidst the chilling atmosphere, Willie Dean stepped forward and began speaking with a cold, authoritative tone. "How many times have I warned all of you," he began, "not to engage in unnecessary fights that tarnish the Red God's reputation? I won't issue further warnings. The next time anyone jeopardizes our gang's status, I'll make sure they pay with their lives."

Willie Dean's eyes locked onto Erlik, a hint of malice in his gaze, as he said, "Erlik, consider this your last chance. Abandon the Red God now. If I catch you meddling in our affairs once more, I won't show you any mercy."

Erlik replied, his voice tinged with relief, "I want to leave this gang anyway. Thank you." Willie Dean let out a sinister laugh and warned, "Then, the next time we cross paths, we'll be enemies." With that, Erlik left the room and made his way home.

In the middle of the night, the school group received a video featuring the ten members who had previously bullied Zeke and Honey, apologizing for their actions. Erlik then messaged the group, asking them to meet early on Sunday morning. Zeke, Mikey, and Jax agreed. On Sunday, they all gathered at the park, although Honey was still out of contact. Erlik arrived with Lucas. Zeke and Mikey playfully approached Lucas, while Jax and Erlik shared intense glances. Lucas stepped between them, saying, "Stop that intense staring."

Erlik proceeded to explain what had happened the day before. After hearing the story, Zeke declared, "Then you're not a member of the Red God anymore. What about Lucas?" Erlik replied, "Lucas also left with me." Mikey inquired further, "What about the other members of your gang?" Erlik clarified, "They're all with the Red God. They never liked me from the beginning."

Zeke was lost in thought. Erlik noticed and asked, "What's on your mind, Zeke?" Zeke replied, "Nothing." While they were all trying to get in touch with her, Honey had turned off her mobile. Jax added in, "Let's go meet up with Honey; things will become clearer." Everyone agreed, and they set off.

Zeke, Mikey, Jax, and Erlik couldn't find Honey at her home, and with the house locked, they decided to pass the time by hanging out near the gaming center. They played games well into the evening before parting ways to return home.

When Zeke got home, his mom shared some surprising news: his brother would be returning in just two days. She was overjoyed, but Zeke couldn't shake the anger he felt toward Leon, despite his outward appearance of happiness.