[center][h2][u]Twist and Turns into the Abyss[/u][/h2] [h3][color=silver]♤ Darius M Cain ♤[/color] & Logan Crowley[/h3] [hr][sub][h3][u][b]Time[/b][/u][/h3][h3]Day 2~Just After Midnight[/h3][h3][u][b]Location[/b][/u][/h3][h3]Underground Tunnels-Lower District, Ominar [/h3][/sub][/center] [hr] The Abyss. It was adapt name for Ominar’s old, underground sewer that laid on top of the very city’s fountain. Nowadays it housed criminals and those abandoned by society, most Licentia kin chased down into it's depths by the Prae’s relentless prejudice and fear they might vanish in the night. Numerous hovels collected over the last year and half creating ghetto areas where everyone scraped by in filth and desperation together. Here the strongest survived and if you weren’t careful than you often became a corpse in some unknown gutter. Things had become rather crowded within the last few months as individuals, from Licentia to humans, had edged their way deeper into the wounding underbelly left to fester and rot on its own. Secret and filth became the alternative to prison, a fact many loathed to their core under the Prae’s ruling, the system weaving itself through the concrete to nearly anywhere in Ominar. This made tracking their numbers difficult since navigation was a hassle without advance technology or magical assistance. Even for the Prae. Deep in an unexplored tunnel, one of many, three individuals causally strolled through an old subway tunnel. Their feet walked along the tracks voided of any electrical energy that once filled it. The slum activity faded behind them the farther they wandered as a single humanoid fox lead the pair of humans deeper. Darius lifted the flashlight and waved over the scene, chasing away the shadows back into their isolated corners. Water drip mingled with each footstep that echoed off the metal walls in the tight confinements, the only life beside them were the scritching and scratching claws of several rats. Afua, Darius’ employed necromancer, idly stroked the half decayed rat riding her shoulder. The dangling flesh left a slimy trail she didn’t bother to notice while her eyes darted into the shadows. Each time the torch passed in her vision, only the reflective lights of rat’s eyes glowed back at them. She smiled at the display and reached up to trace the ridged corpse’s back of her little pet a little more. While Afua and Darius verbally didn’t protest over the conditions, Boris had no trouble bitching about it. “What are we doing here?” The Russian mage asked, his tone echoed briefly off the walls causing Darius’ head to snap toward the rear. He grinded to a pause while his expression became cross at the impatient and rather low intelligent goon. His flashlight faced forward, Darius had been about to reply when Afua beat him to the quick. “You be a mighty edgy like a rat trapped in a dark place, bru,” her tone was light and teasing, through her eyes gleamed with intention to provoke. Her hand lowered to her necklace, her Focus, before giving an idle hum from her native country of Africa. She had migrated over a year ago and her accent had retained its thickness in her roots, sometimes making it difficult to understand, “We be in here to find Krysta, Darius’ little thorn in his paw. Be not that right, baas?” [color=silver] “Yes,”[/color] Darius commented, his eyes returned to tunnel’s end as they drew nearer,[color=silver] “According to the information of one of her [i]friends[/i], I believe she’s having a slight meeting to rally an attack on one of my casinos. I can’t condone that or allow it.”[/color] Boris just snorted, his thick arms crossed over his chest, and followed in the fox’s wake. They walked in silence for a bit longer until they reached a large, roomy cavern of the train tunnel. Darius gestured for the pair to come to a stop as they drew a confused look at each other. Cautiously, he pointed to his ear that flicked with the sounds of the surface, muffled slightly, ringing in his attention before he made a request of Afua. [color=silver] “She is close. Afua, would you so kindly send your little pets to flush them out?”[/color] Afua smirked and crouched down, her arm reached out to allow her pet to step down onto the floor. Gradually her stachel at her waist wiggled furious as she opened the flap and in moments twenty cobbled together rats swarmed out into the sewer’s floor. Their partly decayed features, all in different stages, twitched and sniffed then became abruptly still. Grasping her Focus, Afua poured her Vis through it to make her orders clear. “Now, my little ones. Fan out and search every little crevice for our little guests, if any resist then kill them,” with those last words, she waved her hand for them to scatter into the darkness. Her dreadlocked head, bunched into a ponytail, turned to Darius at the task being done, “It will take a few minutes and if anyone is within my area, they will be flushed out or killed. Satisfactory, baas?” Darius nodded his approval then silence washed over them. Everything seemed to go back to normal with the water continued to drop in a steady beat and faint sounds of traffic above, the flashlight the only light peering through the shadows in the underground. Idly Darius’ yellow eyes slid from the right to the left to absorb any unsettling hints to an ambush. Gun fire broke out in the untouched darkness drawing a smirk from the fox’s muzzle and his attention turned over his shoulder when he made his orders. [color=silver] “Afua, Boris let’s go now,”[/color] Darius barked. His right foot shot forward and immediately his paw flipped the light off in one motion, pocketing it. Underneath him, his shadow warped and twisted like a living thing. It jerked along his leg up to his arm then into his hand. The quivering and excited mass extended from his rib side into the outline of another arm. In its grip was a sharp, dangerous katana designed to slice through a body easily. Meanwhile his actual fingers reached into his holster then tightened about the handle of his glock. He drew into his real hands and looked for a target immediately. Voices became clearer the closer they got as figures, illuminated by a dim glow light, came into view. “You’re such an over sized baby, Rufus. It’s just a rat like I said,” came a female voice, mocking her companion. “Easy for you to say, the damn thing didn’t bite you. And look, it brought filthy friends.” A female redhead, dressed in a duster and baggy pants hunched over Afua’s deceased pets. A disgusting, thick pile of about ten to fifteen rats were riddled with bullets. Their patch quilt bodies were easily blown to pieces then scattered across the shit covered ground. Picking one of the corpses up the tail with her gloved hand, Angela Reeds then continued, “Looks like it’s actually been dead for some time. I wonder what made it move about on its own?” “Does it fucking matter?” Rufus snapped, the thicker giant like human shifted to retreat deeper into the tunnel, “Come on all already, Krysta will not be happy to be kept waiting.” “Yeah, yeah don’t get your boxers in a knot. I’m commin’.” [color=silver] “I think you’ll be making her wait a little bit longer,”[/color] came Darius’ voice slithering from the darkness and emerged into the dim light. The katana held in an extra set of arms that extended enough to prevent crippling his gun hand that rotated the glock to face the pair. Angela grinned a wickedly dangerous one, “Well, shit looks the boss and his lackeys decided to pay us a visit. Krysta won’t like this in the least, but if we kill you before she knows then all will be forgiven.” Her brown eyes turned to Rufus to retort to his earlier comment, “Still don’t think it matters now genius?” Without another word, her hand whipped out a an FNP handgun. The muzzle flashed when the bullet exited the muzzle and darted the Kitsune as Boris reacted. The Russian man lifted his hand, the wristband on his thick hand and hidden under his jacket, glowed with a lifting gesture of his hand. A rumble then the metal screeched up to erect a wall in the way. The bullet pinged then rocketed to the side where it embedded into the wall causing the woman to frown in disappointment. “Fucking metal mage,” her hand jerked to the side to take out Afua. The illusion smiled when the bullets hit air, the image vanishing into thin air. Meanwhile, the necromancer hadn’t been lazy while she focused her Vis into a fist size gem and brought it into a bright glow, illuminating the tunnel in deep red. A decaying and patchwork beast materialized when its Vis, stored within the device, as she reached down to give it ‘life’ from her own magic. It wasn’t true life but an extent of her own. Binding the creature to her own Anima through a Vis string, she fed it energy and an understanding that it lived solely to serve her. An ancient magic, it had been rarely practiced by the public and in her hands it was a dangerous magic. Bones and muscles were a mixture of a canine and tigerlike features, the corpse rose upright onto its feet. A pair of purple irises emerged from the darkness, observing the exchange in silence as a violent confrontation is about to begin. A humanoid silhouette attached to those eyes steps forth, quite casually despite the current situation. It’s steady steps echoing the abandoned train tunnel with the clacks of expensive dress shoes. To Darius, the face behind the silhouette, and the striking purple eyes were recognisable. He had seen it many times in the media, and it only became clearer as the man stepped into the dull red light of Afua’s crystal. The hell was a man like him doing in a place like this? “[color=ed1c24]Now, now…[/color]” The voice was smooth as silk, yet held an aura of intimidation and judgement over the two parties as the eyes looked upon Darius and his crew first, and then turning to Angela last. “[color=ed1c24]I’m sure your little squabbles can be solved in a less violent manner. The last thing I want to see is such potential wasted on either side. So how about we all have a little chat, hmm?[/color]” Angela laughed. Her sound echoed off the wall as she faded it into a smirk, her eyes twinkled in a murderous streak at the newcomer then flipped over to Darius, “Friend of yours? If I had known a few failed assassin attempts would’ve gotten your attention so easily then I would’ve done it ages ago.” Her gun twitched, the only warning, when she jerked it up to fire at Darius. The gun went off, the bullet leaving the barrel seemingly in slow motion as the necromancer and the mage attempted to react, but they would be too slow regardless, and if not stopped, the bullet would penetrate Darius’ skull. Though the bullet didn’t even get to travel very far. As soon as Angela blinked, she heard the sound of ruffling clothes, and as her eyes opened again, the bang of the bullet bouncing around the tunnels walls, the unknown man stood before her, his pose relaxed with a fist placed just before the barrel of her gun. A metal wall rose behind him in the distance where Darius stood, and the undead creature under the necromancer’s employ reeled back at the sudden change of the man’s position. His eyes stared intensely into Angela’s, as his fist opened into a palm, to reveal the crushed bit of lead gently resting on the skin of his hand. “[color=ed1c24]Two…[/color]” The man muttered under his breath. Counting something in his mind. “[color=ed1c24]Are you sure you do not wish to talk… Angela?[/color]” The man uttered her name. How the fuck did he know? Darius watched the fear seep into the woman, her hand trembling as she reached for another weapon on instinct. The Kitsune doubted she would get very far. He barely blinked or moved, a fact because he didn’t need to since he had once witnessed this particular man’s combative skill personally. A test to ensure he wasn’t easy to kill should the Prae wanted to overcome an obstruction in their way and try to make him ‘vanish’ was needed before the contract had been signed. His golden eyes looked to a shock Boris and Afua, both rattled by the speed, then made his comment,[color=silver] “Counting down to when your patience wears down, Mr. Crowley? Boris, Afua would you be kind enough to put your toys away for the moment? I believe our unexpected guest has everything in hand.”[/color] With that, he let his black katana and arms dissolve back into the dark shadow at his feet then suck right into him. His other hand holstered his glock to prevent any misfire, despite the odd look both employees gave him. Grudgingly, Boris spat then cursed under his breath in Russian before placing his Focus away. Afua, idly, petted her frankenstein creation then hunched over to place it back into the gem with a bright light. The immediate call out then return had taken a lot of Vis that would quickly replenish if she didn’t use anymore magic for the time being. Angela, who’s nervousness grew, tightened her finger on her trigger held in the man’s hand. Her eyes looked rattled and wild as Rufus debated on his next move. The half Licenti had been surprisingly quiet during the whole outbreak of conflict. On closer look, his skin gave off a rocky coloring showing his magical talents. He was part rock giant and that meant strength, durability and height were his advantage. It explained his form being about seven foot tall compared to the others within the tunnel. “Angela, I think we should leave now.” “I’m not done with this bastard-” “[color=ed1c24]Do you talk to your mother with that mouth, Angela, let alone your employers?[/color]” “I cut ties with my family a long time ago. I enjoyed putting a bullet through someone’s head a bit too much and she thought something was wrong with me. As for Kystra, she condones it,” Angela scoffed, her finger tightened a bit more. Another bullet slide in the chamber and her adrenaline filled her veins, the idea of killing something that might provide a challenge made her grin widen even when the fear tried to drown it out. “Angela…” Rufus cautioned, his half giant figure began to approach. “[color=ed1c24]And what if I tell you that there are better places to kill than in a train tunnel, or crawling through sewers for a low life criminal. Better pay, lifestyle, and challenging targets… hmm?[/color]” The man’s gaze turned to the stone ogre. “[color=ed1c24]And what about you? Is this really worth the money Kystra is paying you? I’m sure you’re talents could be used wisely.[/color]” “Money doesn’t concern me, you can keep it. It’s the thrill and bragging rights to killing someone that is impossible or view to be beyond it. The idea of being on the edge of a blade where your own life might be cut short or rise beyond the human limits is an experience I can’t get enough of. That’s all that matters to me and Kystra is the fastest way I can get it,” Angela answered as her eyes turned to Rufus, noting his feet come to a halt. Her ally’s blue eyes studied the faster than the naked eye being before him, then absorbed what was said, “It’s not the thrill or money I’m interested in. People I loved have gone missing and I know friends that have suffered a similar loss. It’s to prevent that hurt and learn why is my reason. I don’t expect you to understand it,. Kystra’s right that Mr. Cain is going too slow on overcoming the Prae control and that something I want to change.” Rufus inhaled, “Even if we have to rip the Fox and his organization apart to do it, leaving everything in ashes.” “[color=ed1c24]You will destroy Ominar and the good people in it. Doing the very thing you are trying to prevent. But there are other ways… Ones that will prevent more casualties.[/color]” He looked back at Angela. “[color=ed1c24]If challenge is what you seek, then I can easily provide it. The only thing Kystra can provide is merely momentary satisfaction. That adrenaline rush… your endless thirst for combat. You are the wolf that I seek.[/color]” “[color=ed1c24]And you, Rufus, your heart is in the right place, yet I can see that you doubt yourself, doubt the path you're taking.[/color]” He paused for a moment, reaching into his elegant trench coat to pull out a pair of business cards. “[color=ed1c24]I think it’s time for both of you to leave. But please, consider my offer. Feel free to give a call at anytime.[/color]” He placed a business card on top of Angela’s gun perfectly, and handed the other to Rufus. On the card it stated: Logan Crowley - CEO Armax Innovations and Investments International 0-805-564-5897 Angela recognised the name. AIII was the proprietary owner of a renowned private military company, Armax Security. Their mercs are the best in the business, and see constant action around the world. While Rufus, recognised them for Aegis Real Estate Interdimensional. A massive real estate company that also does charity work by providing Licenti refugees with free homes on Medius. Rufus narrowed his eyes at Logan, his height advantage caused him to lower himself in order to look into Logan’s, “I don’t know how a mafia boss could do anything to ensure law and order. He’s nothing more than a parasite feeding off the helpless and desperate to gain a foothold over them. It’s disgusting and I can’t see how any good comes from it.” His head lifted upright and straightened up to continue, “I think I’ll stick with Kystra. At least she’s not willing to work with the Fox.” Angela, on the other hand, had been brushing her thoughts over the card. Her face debated on the opportunity to take on things like Logan or even get a lucky shot into the back of the man’s head. Another smile crossed her lips when she replied, surprising even Rufus, “Why not? Kystra has kept me on a short leash since I tried to kill ol’ Foxy over there and I’m still twitching to end him.” The man nodded to Angela. “[color=ed1c24]Good. Then we shall meet later today to speak terms. And as itchy as your trigger finger is, you will get to scratch it very soon. Go along now, get yourself refreshed, and rearmed with something...[/color]” He inspected her handgun, and seemed a little disappointed. “[color=ed1c24]...with more punch. Wanna make yourself presentable for the interview.[/color]” Angela raised her eyebrow, “Easier said than done. I’m not exactly made of money and not many are willing to add more punch to a powder keg.” “[color=ed1c24]Then here is an advance.[/color]” The man handed her what appeared to be a Credit Chit, with more than enough cash to set her up with some serious hardware. Rufus gave Logan a look that asked if he was really willing to set fire to all of Ominar until the man moved. He stepped past her towards Rufus, and clasped him by the shoulder to walk him over out of earshot of Darius. His strength was surprising, capable of dragging Rufus over even if he attempted to resist, “[color=ed1c24]Now, Rufus. Me and the Kitsune have a small agreement. But it does not mean we are allies. You see, when he dies, I take all of his properties, preventing the Prae from taking over that little district. He is playing the long game, while I am playing a more… forceful one, though discrete. While I haven’t got anything against the people of Priscus, I do have a lot against their leaders. They are the problem here, and I seek to resolve that particular issue as quickly, and as quietly as possible. And the reasons for that are quite obvious, don’t you think?[/color]” “Aye, but the fox is poison and what happens after you get the Prae out?” Rufus asked, his eyes assessing the reaction to his question and sought to determine his would be answer. “[color=ed1c24]We avoid war. The criminal underworld can keep it in shit holes like this,” He gestures to the tunnel they were in. “while the surface and the hard working prosper. Even if Darius is a rotten apple, he is sadly needed. He keeps other like him check. And we don’t want more individuals like him. Better to have only one, than several.[/color]” Rufus huff at the thought, his head twisted at the fox who idly stood there. His vision heated in hot, burning hatred and blame before trying to argue farther, “And who do you think makes them in the first place?” “[color=ed1c24]Think about it realistically[/color]” Logan began. “[color=ed1c24]People come from all kinds of lives, parents, childhoods. But we all know that this stems from desperation and poverty. You know the slums, right? Desperate people, just trying to survive, from the crime, and the OCPD raids. That desperation leads them to work for people like him. I plan to eliminate that desperation, that poverty. With that out of the way, crime dwindles, and dies. When you live in comfort, what reason do you have to commit atrocities?[/color]” Rufus inhaled, “Fine, we’ll see where your path leads but do me one favor. Don’t let Darius outlive his usefulness. When he is no longer doing whatever the shit you want him to or steps out of line, don’t let him get away with it.” “[color=ed1c24]Oh, don’t worry about that. His time is short regardless. Now go get yourself some sleep. You could use it…[/color]” He the Licenti go, and watched him hesitantly leave, looking back at Darius with a glare of hatred. With both now former agents of Kystra gone, Logan casually strolled over to Darius and his people, his dress shoes clicking against the cold ground. “[color=ed1c24]Darius… attempting clean up your mess, I see.[/color]” [color=silver] “If I didn’t, would you think I would’ve lasted this long? After all, while I might thrive in chaos… it brings unsettling memories best avoided,”[/color] He waved off both Afua and Boris, sending them to walk back to the exit where they stood alert and nervous,[color=silver] “From that look Rufus gave me, I take it you make it clear our truce was temporary and likely something else in regards to my life? He wouldn’t go so easily unless he knew I would be killed at some point.”[/color] “[color=ed1c24]Everybody dies eventually Darius. We all do. Whatever the circumstances may be.[/color]” Logan pause to regard the fox for a moment before continuing. “[color=ed1c24]Being part owner means that I have to worry about every little detail. It’s my job to do so. You could have told me you were having some issues, they would have been resolved quickly.[/color]” [color=silver] “Not everyone is that patient and Kitsune aren’t known for their short, natural life spans. I’m not very happy with how far I let things get, but I’ve been distracted with news of an old friend in town. I’m currently waiting for him to pay a visit,”[/color] Darius spoke, leaving out the identity. His paws fitted themselves into his pockets and hung there loosely in a calm manner even with the conversation leaning on death,[color=silver] “Now what do you intend on doing?”[/color] “[color=ed1c24]Well, I would like to fix your problem, but since my business partner is being a little uncooperative, I guess I will leave him to it.[/color]” Logan stated. “You have a free path to Kystra now, the rest is up to you. Keep in mind that I will be watching very closely. I’m interested to see how this all turns out. Good Luck, Darius. Hope you can broker some sort of resolution without causing another mess.” With that, The Director of AIII walked away towards the exit behind Darius, leaving him to listen to the man’s footsteps and think on his words carefully.