Dawn of the Night: The Awakening of a Loser

Chapter 3: Chapter 3: A High-Stakes Game



Lately, Ian's been feeling this gnawing unease, like he's being watched 24/7, no matter where he goes. Walking through bustling, vibrant streets, surrounded by the hustle and bustle, the laughter and chatter, he feels like he's got a bullseye on his back. Even the reflections in store windows seem like spies in the shadows. His sharp intuition tells him he's in deep shit, and it's all because of his special ability. After some serious sleuthing, he concludes that a mysterious organization with a thing for abilities has him in their sights.

Sure enough, one day, while Ian's on his way to sniff out more clues about abilities, he's ambushed by Zhao Qiang and his goons in a secluded, grimy alley. Zhao Qiang, with a smirk that could rival a sly fox, confronts Ian with his crew, setting up a clear case of bullying with numbers.

"Kid, today's your last day. Hand over your ability, and maybe you'll get to keep your body in one piece," Zhao Qiang sneers, his eyes gleaming with greed and malice.

Ian isn't fazed. He stares Zhao Qiang down, a cocky grin spreading across his face. "You think you can take my power with these small fries? Dream on."

Seeing Ian's defiance, Zhao Qiang's temper flares. He signals his cronies, and they lunge at Ian like rabid wolves. Suddenly, the alley becomes a battleground. Zhao Qiang thought his numbers and supposed knowledge of Ian would make this a cakewalk, but boy, was he wrong. Ian doesn't just hold his ground; he kicks ass.

Ian cleverly uses the junk lying around, turning it into impromptu weapons, hurling them at his attackers. He dodges blows with the grace of a seasoned fighter, countering with precision. Zhao Qiang's crew, once cocky, now look like a bunch of clowns tripping over themselves. Zhao Qiang watches, his shock turning to fury—he never expected Ian to be this badass.

As the fight drags on, Zhao Qiang's side starts losing steam. His goons' faces show fear and regret; they're probably wishing they'd stayed home. Meanwhile, Ian's confidence shines, like he's the master of this fight.

"Feeling my power now, huh?" Ian taunts while dodging another attack.

Zhao Qiang, gritting his teeth, tries to turn the tide, but his efforts are as effective as a fly against a windshield. After a relentless barrage from Ian, Zhao Qiang and his crew are left beaten and bruised on the ground. Zhao Qiang, now just a dusty, battered figure, watches Ian with dread as he warns, "Listen up, don't mess with my powers again. Next time, I won't be so nice."

After the victory, Ian doesn't feel much joy. He knows the organization won't let this go; this win is just a breather. Back at his place, the scene sends him into a cold sweat. His home is trashed, and Sarah, the one he cares most about, is gone, leaving only a note on the table. The note ignites his rage and worry—Sarah's been kidnapped by the organization, demanding his ability in exchange for her life.

"Damn it!" Ian slams the note down, fists clenched tight. He paces, his mind racing with guilt and resolve. If it weren't for him, Sarah wouldn't be in this mess.

Cooling off, Ian starts plotting Sarah's rescue. He knows it's a trap, but there's no backing out for Sarah's sake. Memories of her—stunning beauty and comforting smile—fuel his determination. He vows to bring her back, no matter what.

He carefully analyzes the situation, knowing the organization's leader, Elder Liu, is cunning. This kidnapping is part of a larger, sinister plan. But Ian's strategic mind is up for the challenge. He rallies some fearless friends from past adventures, explains the situation, and they're all in. Together, they gather intel on the hideout—a secluded, fortified factory.

Under the cover of night, Ian leads his team, navigating through the complex terrain and dodging patrols. Once inside, they move silently, taking down guards with precision. They find Sarah, but just as they're about to escape, Elder Liu and his reinforcements block their way.

"Think you can just walk out?" Elder Liu mocks with authority.

Ian, eyes blazing with fury, retorts, "Let us go, and I'll forget this ever happened. Otherwise, you'll regret it."

Elder Liu laughs, "You think you're getting out? None of you leave here alive."

The battle resumes, fierce and desperate. Ian, protecting Sarah, fights with all he's got. He senses Elder Liu's dark agenda—to siphon his powers during the fight. With this realization, Ian unleashes his ultimate ability, blasting through the enemies like a tidal wave. Amidst the chaos, they make their escape.

Once safe, Ian looks at Sarah, overwhelmed with guilt and love, "I'm sorry you went through that."

Sarah, leaning into him, whispers, "As long as I'm with you, I'm not scared of anything."


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