Arrival of a ghost

[After Lunchtime]

"Now that's out of the way, I should plan for the future." 

In the previous world, Max was strong as hell. But here, it's a different story. Knives were pretty easy for Max to handle since he was stronger than any normal human. Guns, though, were another matter. And then there were tanks, missiles, even nukes. It's dangerous out there, especially if he's not strong enough for what's coming next. Plus, there are always exceptions, like skilled secret organizations that operate in the dark and control the world. Even with proper planning and forces, it would be hard. 

Although it's all in the future, he plans to get stronger smoothly without drawing attention to himself. As these thoughts swirl in his head, he spots a clothing store across the street.

"Let's start with that."

"Rock and roll, baby."

Later that night, in a back alley, the sound of someone crying can be heard. A guy in a school uniform, bruises covering his face, is on the floor sobbing. Two guys stand before him. One is fat, wearing black clothes and gold chains around his neck. The other holds a pocket knife and has a creepy smile on his face.

"Hey... you know, I'm really a busy man. I don't have time for this. Just do what you were told," the fat guy says.

"Yeah, dude. We can finish this the soft way—give us the money, and you'll be safe—or the hard way, which is more exciting for us," the second guy says, laughing maniacally.

"Please, that money is for my father's treatment. I won't give it to you even if you kill me," the bruised guy pleads.

The two thugs stop for a moment, then burst into laughter again. "Hahaha… did you hear that?"

"Hahaha… is he an idiot or something? Dude, you're not the first one. We've dealt with guys like you many times before. What do we do at times like this, bro?" the fat guy asks his partner.

"What else? Beat him until he breaks. He'll do anything we say like a good little doll. After all, it's $10,000, right?" the fat guy said.

"How did you…?" the bruised guy asked, shocked.

"One of your friends ratted you out. You really have some shitty friends, huh?"

"No way, they would never—" The guy with the knife punched him in the gut, making him curl up in pain.

"Urgh…"

"Look, kid, we're not your average school bullies. We're gang members. We can kill anyone and get away with it. Above us, there are mafia guys we have to pay monthly. We have a target to reach."

"Kids don't know the dark side of the world. Sigh…"

'Is this how it's going to be? What wrong deeds did I commit to suffer like this?' Regret filled his face. 'Dad, I'm sorry for being so weak.' Tears flowed down his cheeks.

"Yo! That's not so nice," a voice called out, shocking them.

They looked up to see a shadowy figure sitting on a balcony above with bright blue eyes, scaring them like a ghost.