Extra Pages: The Author's Odyssey
Chapter 213: Mana Oath [2]

Jonathan's internal struggle was evident. The prospect of a [E] rank dungeon was a double-edged sword—rich rewards awaited, but the risk loomed large.

"Lucas, I appreciate the offer, but it's too risky. Our members might not be ready for such a challenge," Jonathan replied, a hint of reluctance in his voice.

Most of the members are at [F+] rank or [F] there are only a few [E] ranked members in a gang and Lucas already killed three of them.

Jonathan doesn't want to lose members.

I leaned back, crossing my arms. "Jonathan, you have something valuable here. Don't you want your gang to rise above its current status? This dungeon is a stepping stone, an opportunity to reshape the Black colour gang's destiny."

His eyes flickered with uncertainty, torn between caution and the allure of potential growth.

"You have my word, Jonathan. I wouldn't offer this if I didn't believe your gang could handle it. I'm not here to lead you astray," I emphasized, my tone resolute.

After a moment of contemplation, Jonathan sighed. "Alright, Lucas. We'll accept your offer. We'll send a group to attempt the dungeon, but I can't promise immediate success."

A satisfied smile played on my lips. "That's all I ask, Jonathan. This is the first step towards something greater. Make the most of this opportunity."

Saying that I took out another piece of paper from my Jeans pocket.

But this piece of paper is different, It's Mana Oath paper.

I don't believe in Jonathan at all that's why I prepared the Mana Oath.

Mana Oaths are used to take pledges between two parties with the System as the overseer.

If any party breaks the Mana Oath, they are directly judged by the System itself.

This serves as the safest guarantee. As a result, the use of Mana Oaths is very widespread in society.

"Then we will create a Mana Oath, For safety measures you know. I'll provide you with the necessary information to clear the dungeon. In return, I will get 60% of the loot and 10% will go to Sunless guild."

"60%? And 20% But Lucas-"

"Also don't try to negotiate with me, after the dungeon is mine, and information is also mine, I should get 60% and Sunless guild 20% and the rest of 20% is yours.

It seems Jonathan at least had the wisdom. he understood that I wasn't negotiating.

I was informing him what the dividends were.

Jonathan bitterly smiled. It seems that he understood where the fault lay.

Had he kept his composure when we were talking a few minutes before and not gotten swept by me, he might have been able to put up proper negotiations.

But the moment he lost to my momentum, he already lost any chance at negotiating.

Jonathan, realizing the gravity of the situation, reluctantly nodded. "Fine, Lucas. We agree to the terms of the Mana Oath. The Black colour gang will uphold its end of the deal."

I handed him the Mana Oath paper, and we both placed our hands on it as the System initiated the binding oath.

Then both of us inserted a trace of our energies inside the Oath.

Rip-

The paper flew into the air and got torn into two pieces.

One piece flew into me and the other into Richard.

The warm feeling inside my soul told me that the Oath was now bound.

"See. It wasn't hard."

"Yes, you are right Lucas."

After the mana oath was completed, I started to explain to him how to clear the dungeon.

While doing that I couldn't help but let out a small smirk inside of my mask.

With all of this Black colour, gang will be in my hand.

The leader will still be Jonathan but I'm going to be the Mastermind behind the scenes.

It will take some time but I'm sure that in the future Black colour Gang will greatly help me.

Now I almost have all the pawns that I needed.

Isabella with here Evergreen Clan, My father's guild that will be my Guild in future, and Jonathan with his gang.

Last but not least my own Master Yato. With the help of Yato, I'm sure I will become very strong.

Anyway, let's focus on the conversation with Jonathan first.

"As long as the Black colour gang follows through with the dungeon exploration and provides the necessary information, we have a deal," I stated, sealing our agreement with the binding power of the Mana Oath.

Jonathan's expression revealed a mix of resignation and determination. "We'll fulfil our end, Lucas. But if anything goes wrong, we expect your support."

I leaned back, a smirk playing on my lips. "Don't worry, Jonathan. I've ensured that this is a win-win situation. Now, focus on preparing your team for the dungeon. The future of the Black colour gang depends on it."

With the business concluded, I rose from the chair, ready to depart from the Black colour gang's headquarters.

"Lucas, one more thing," Jonathan interjected, a serious tone in his voice.

I raised an eyebrow, urging him to continue.

"Be cautious with the Red Wolf gang. Your information might have stirred things up, and they won't take it lightly. They're a dangerous bunch," he warned.

I nodded, acknowledging the caution. "I'm well aware, Jonathan. The Red Wolf gang won't catch me off guard. Now, let's see how this unfolds."

As I exited the room, leaving the Black colour gang's domain, the intricate dance of alliances, risks, and power plays continued in the vast tapestry of the city's underworld.

The threads of fate woven in that dimly lit room would soon intertwine with the looming clash between the Black colour and Red Wolf gangs, creating ripples that would shape the future of this narrative.

Back in the city's bustling streets, I pondered the unfolding events, knowing that every decision carried weight and consequences.

The countdown to the auction continued, and with each passing moment, the stakes escalated. The city held its breath, unaware of the invisible hands manipulating the strings behind the scenes.