Eric's investigation into the Crimson Circle consumed his days and nights. The deeper he dug, the more he realized the scope of their operations. They weren't just a small-time criminal gang—they were an intricate network tied to smuggling, arms trafficking, and even political corruption.
But Eric wasn't intimidated. If anything, it fuelled his determination. The Crimson Circle wasn't just an obstacle; it was an opportunity—a way to dismantle the organization protecting the five men and ensure their crimes couldn't be hidden behind layers of power.
Eric started by sifting through the files he had copied from Lukey's laptop. The emails mentioned various codenames, transaction records, and cryptic meeting locations. It was a puzzle, and Eric's incredible understanding thrived on puzzles.
One name appeared repeatedly in the emails: Garrison Logistics, a seemingly legitimate shipping company. It didn't take long for Eric to uncover their real purpose—they were a front for the Crimson Circle, moving illicit goods under the guise of legitimate business.
[You analyse Garrison Logistics' financial records. Inconsistencies detected: multiple unexplained transactions linked to offshore accounts. New lead acquired: Garrison Logistics warehouse in District 12.]
As he pieced together the Crimson Circle's operations, Eric realized he couldn't take them down alone. He needed allies—not partners, but people with skills he could use. Even though he could gain skills through his incredible understanding, he didn't have enough time and energy to focus on multiple aspects. He needed someone with a platform that could anonymously publicize the information he collected on the illegal activities done by the Crimson Circle.
Through a long screening process, Eric discreetly reached out to a female reporter known as Mary Dane, who ran a popular online podcast that allowed viewers to anonymously report crimes. He hacked into her emails and proposed a deal where she would publicize the information according to his plans. In exchange, she would gain valuable, exclusive stories to boost her platform.
After a cautious exchange of encrypted messages, Eric sent Mary the information he gained from breaking into Garrison Logistics' private servers.
The data Eric provided was a goldmine to Mary: detailed shipping manifests, encrypted communications, and even a list of high-profile clients.
Among the names on the client list was a politician Mary recognized—Senator Mark Harlow. A man publicly praised for his "anti-corruption" stance, Harlow's involvement in the Crimson Circle was proof of their influence.
While Eric gathered intelligence, he didn't neglect his physical and mental preparation. His martial arts training evolved as he sought out new instructors. Using his incredible understanding, he mastered techniques in half the time it took an ordinary student.
He spent hours sparring with professionals, testing his limits, and refining his reflexes. His growing arsenal of skills included:
• Muay Thai for its devastating strikes.
• Jiu-Jitsu for grappling and submissions.
• Krav Maga for practical combat situations.
Every session left him bruised and exhausted, but his progress was undeniable.
[You master advanced techniques in Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, and Krav Maga. Combat efficiency increased. Physical endurance improved.]
Eric's next target was the Garrison Logistics warehouse in District 12. He planned the infiltration meticulously, studying blueprints, analyzing guard shifts, and using surveillance drones purchased through Shade.
On the night of the operation, Eric approached the warehouse dressed in black, his gear optimized for stealth. His grappling hook allowed him to scale the outer wall without alerting the guards.
Inside, he moved like a shadow, avoiding cameras and guards with precision. He reached the central office, where he planted a data extractor in their mainframe.
As the extractor worked, Eric searched the room for anything of immediate value. He found a ledger hidden in a locked drawer, detailing shipments of illegal arms.
The extractor beeped softly, signalling completion. Eric retrieved it and slipped out the way he came.
Back in his apartment, Eric analysed the data. It revealed the structure of the Crimson Circle—key members, supply chains, and even hidden safehouses.
He also discovered something chilling: the Crimson Circle was preparing a large shipment of military-grade weapons. The delivery was scheduled for the following month, with Garrison Logistics as the intermediary.
Eric knew he couldn't allow the shipment to go through. It wasn't just about revenge anymore—it was about stopping something far bigger.
[You uncover the Crimson Circle's arms shipment plan. New objective acquired: Disrupt the shipment and cripple the organization.]
As Eric prepared for his next move, he realized something important. To take on the Crimson Circle and protect his identity, he couldn't remain Eric Thorn. He needed to become someone else—something else.
Using his incredible understanding, Eric began crafting his new persona. He designed a suit of lightweight armour, incorporating elements of his ballistic vest with custom enhancements for mobility and durability.
His mask was sleek and intimidating, equipped with thermal vision and voice modulation. He tested it rigorously, ensuring it was both functional and fearsome.
By the time he finished, he stood before a mirror, unrecognizable. Eric Thorn was gone. In his place was a vigilante—a symbol of justice and vengeance.
[You create your vigilante persona. Suit equipped: Lightweight Combat Armor. Mask equipped: Tactical Mask with Thermal Vision and Voice Modulation.]
Eric's first act as the vigilante would be to disrupt the Crimson Circle's shipment. He had two weeks to prepare, and he intended to use every second.
The game had changed. The stakes were higher. But Eric was ready.
This wasn't just about revenge anymore—it was about taking down the entire system that allowed monsters like the Crimson Circle to thrive.