After All

The Patriarch Resurfaces

Riria was tending to her garden when she saw Karl approaching. She was a formidable woman, with sharp eyes and an imposing presence, a stark contrast to her serene surroundings. As Karl reached her, Riria looked up, sensing the urgency in her brother's demeanor.

"Karl, what brings you here?" Riria asked, wiping her hands on her apron.

"We need to talk," Karl said, his voice grave. He glanced around to ensure their privacy before continuing. "It's about Marie, the girl I've taken in."

Riria's eyebrows furrowed in concern. "Marie? What about her?"

Karl took a deep breath before speaking. "Her parents were murdered by Marika. I've been looking after her because she's in danger. Marika is ruthless, and we both know she won't stop until she gets what she wants."

Riria's expression hardened. "Marika? That woman has always been a thorn in our side. What's her interest in this girl?"

"I don't know," Karl explained. "She is working with another ruthless warlord. We need to confront Marika before she does more damage."

Riria nodded, determination flashing in her eyes. "Then we should act swiftly. I'll gather the necessary information and prepare our gear. Where do you plan to confront her?"

"Santa Fe," Karl replied. "It's where she's most active. If we're going to stop her, we need to catch her off guard."

Riria agreed. "Let's do it. We'll leave at first light."

The next morning, Karl and Riria arrived at Santa Fe, a place known for its remote beauty and hidden dangers. The town had an eerie calm, the kind that only comes before a storm. The streets were empty, save for a few locals going about their business, unaware of the brewing confrontation.

Karl and Riria navigated the winding alleys of Santa Fe with practiced ease, their senses alert for any sign of their enemies. They finally reached an old warehouse on the outskirts of town—a place Karl had learned Marika frequented.

"Stay alert," Karl warned as they approached the building. "Marika won't be alone. Maxie Bogues, her right-hand man, is probably with her."

Riria nodded, her hand instinctively resting on the hilt of her weapon. "Understood. Let's move."

Inside the Mansion, the atmosphere was thick with tension. Marika, a tall woman with a commanding presence and a cold gaze, stood with Maxie Bogues, a burly man with a brutish demeanor. They were discussing their next move, completely unaware of the impending confrontation.

Karl and Riria entered the warehouse cautiously. As they stepped into the dim light, Marika's eyes narrowed, recognizing the intruders.

"Well, well, if it isn't Karl Marino and Riria," Marika said, her voice dripping with malice. "What a pleasant surprise."

Karl stepped forward, his face a mask of determination. "Marika, we're here to end your evil plans."

Maxie Bogues cracked his knuckles, his eyes gleaming with a dangerous glint. "You think you can do that, old man?"

"I'm not here for chit chat," Karl said firmly. "I'm here to end this."

Marika smirked. "Very well. If it's a fight you want, it's a fight you'll get."

Without further warning, Marika lunged at Karl, her movements swift and precise. Karl met her with equal ferocity, their blows exchanging in a deadly dance. Riria, meanwhile, squared off with Maxie Bogues. Despite his size, Riria's agility and skill allowed her to land several effective strikes, keeping him on the defensive.

The clash of combat was intense. Karl and Marika fought fiercely, their skills honed by years of conflict. Karl managed to land a solid blow, pushing Marika back. However, she quickly regained her footing, her eyes flashing with hatred.