Empire of Zoo(chapter 94)

prevously in chapter 93

Mariah leaned back slightly, her posture regal yet guarded. Her fingers tapped rhythmically on the stem of her wine glass. "You have quite the reputation, Mr. Henry. Creator of Orchid, a drug that rivals the Steel Serpent. It's intriguing."

Cornell smirked, his interest piqued. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Intriguing is one word for it. Lucrative is another. But then again, we're all about making money, aren't we?"

Henry nodded, acknowledging their shared motivations. "Precisely. I'm here to propose a partnership that could be immensely profitable for all of us."

Mariah took a measured sip of her wine, her eyes never leaving Henry's. The liquid glistened in the low light, a stark contrast to her dark lipstick. "And what exactly do you envision this partnership entailing?"

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Chapter 94

Henry leaned forward, his gaze earnest and direct. "My proposal is simple: we combine our resources to control the distribution of Orchid. By working together, we can dominate the market, ensuring a steady and substantial profit."

Cornell's eyes narrowed further, curiosity turning into genuine interest. He swirled his wine, watching the liquid catch the light before taking another sip. "You're talking about a drug empire, then. What makes you think we need you?"

Henry's smile was subtle but confident. "Because I bring something unique to the table. Orchid is not just any drug; it's a product that can easily surpass anything currently available. With my distribution network and your local influence, we can control the supply and demand, keeping prices high and competition low."

Mariah's skepticism was palpable. She placed her glass down gently, her fingers lingering on its rim. "And what's the split? How do we ensure this partnership remains beneficial for all involved?"

Henry steepled his fingers, considering his words carefully. "A three-way split of the profits, equal shares. Additionally, I'll provide the necessary security and logistical support to ensure smooth operations. In return, I expect cooperation in distribution and influence."

Mariah's eyes sparkled with a mix of intrigue and caution. She leaned in, her voice low and deliberate. "Influence is a powerful currency. You're asking for a lot."

Henry nodded, his demeanor remaining calm and composed. "I am. But the potential benefits far outweigh the risks. Together, we can create a network that not only enriches us but also ensures our dominance in this market."

Cornell swirled his wine again, the liquid catching the light as he pondered Henry's words. "And if things go south?" Henry met his gaze without flinching. "Then we handle it as businessmen should—efficiently and effectively. Our interests must remain aligned, and any threat will be dealt with swiftly."

The tension in the air was almost tangible, a silent understanding passing between them. Mariah finally nodded, her posture relaxing slightly as she reclined in her chair. "I suppose we can give this a shot. But mark my words, Henry, one misstep and this partnership ends."

Cornell raised his glass, a grin spreading across his face as he leaned back in his seat. "Here's to new ventures, then. May they be as profitable as promised." Henry did not raise his glass but nodded in agreement. "To new ventures. Let's make history."

The three of them sat back, each lost in their own thoughts, the slow jazz continuing to play as a soundtrack to their newly forged alliance. The candlelight flickered, casting shadows that hinted at the power and ambition that now bound them together. Mariah, ever the politician, couldn't help but bring the conversation back to her roots. "You know, I didn't get into this business to stay in the shadows. Harlem deserves better than what it's been handed. If this partnership is going to work, we need to think about the future, about legacy."

Cornell scoffed lightly but not dismissively. "Legacy is nice and all, but I've always believed in living in the now. Money and power are what keep the world spinning." Henry listened, absorbing their perspectives. "Legacy and power aren't mutually exclusive. This partnership can secure our present while shaping the future. With the profits we generate, we can reinvest in our territories, build our influence. Harlem can thrive under our control." Mariah raised an eyebrow, her interest piqued. "You're suggesting we use our gains to improve the community, to build a stronghold that's more than just fear and money?"

Henry nodded. "Precisely. A community that thrives under our rule is a community that remains loyal and profitable. We can be more than just criminals; we can be leaders." Cornell chuckled, shaking his head. "You talk a big game, Henry. But I have to admit, there's sense in what you're saying. A thriving community means less heat from the cops and more respect from the people."

Mariah's expression softened slightly, seeing a glimmer of possibility in Henry's words. "If we're going to do this, we do it smart. We control the drugs, yes, but we also control the narrative. We become the benefactors of Harlem." Henry's smile returned, seeing the agreement forming. "Exactly. This is about more than just making money. It's about building something that lasts, something that can withstand the test of time."

Cornell raised his glass again, this time with genuine enthusiasm. "To building an empire, then. One that lasts." Mariah clinked her glass against his, her eyes locking onto Henry's. "To a future we can shape. Together." Henry nodded, his empty glass remaining on the table as a symbol of his unyielding focus. "Together."

The jazz music played on, a fitting backdrop to the alliance of three powerful individuals, each driven by their own ambitions but united by a common goal, although, henry was laughing in his mind, "empire," he scoffed in his mind, "the only empire these idiots are building is a fucking zoo for apes" he though as he sighted in his mind, "but harlem is already a hell hole, although couttonmouth is going to be dealt with by luke cage and killed by mariah, i am investing in her, not him" he though as he then got up.

-scene change-

Late at night, Luke stood in front of a large pond, breathing deeply, the tension thick in the air. The man behind from him sneered, his voice filled with disdain. "What are you doing here, nigga?" he spat as he held luke at gunpoint. Luke's eyes hardened, but he stayed calm as he removed his hood and his earphone, as the young man said again "I'm not gonna ask you again" that is when luke said, " Young man... I've had a long day. I'm tired. But I'm not tired enough to ever let nobody call me that word." He turned around, his presence imposing. "You see a nigga standin' in front of you? Across the street from a building named after one of our greatest heroes?" The young man's response was cold, his gun cocking in his hand. "Yeah, a dead one." Luke exhaled sharply.

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A/N: Is Henry racist? Do I make him a racist? If so, then I might have to pull some of my favorite lines from Tobias Whale, the White Ninja.