Synthorian

'Misthophoroi' - A Sci-Fi Mercenary RP

@Indy CooperI think she'd be great as a weapons platform. Strap a Kinetic Battery to her back and you have walking artillery.

'Misthophoroi' - A Sci-Fi Mercenary RP

@Indy CooperNot big enough for a Tylon unless she wants to be the alien equivalent of a donkey. They average between 7 to 9 feet tall, with some rare exceptions.

'Misthophoroi' - A Sci-Fi Mercenary RP

Should have a CS ready in a couple of days.

'Misthophoroi' - A Sci-Fi Mercenary RP

@Indy Cooper Exactly that. Their species thrives on war. So mercenary work for them tends to be the best option if they are exiled or if they get bored of civilian life

'Misthophoroi' - A Sci-Fi Mercenary RP

@Tsar Gatto I do have a custom race in mind that would suit this wonderfully. Tylons are soldiers from birth, so seeking war for them is second nature. Money, not so much. They don't understand how virtual numbers or paper notes have any value.

'Misthophoroi' - A Sci-Fi Mercenary RP

Great! So assuming from what I read of the Ooc Op, custom races are A-OK?

'Misthophoroi' - A Sci-Fi Mercenary RP

Hello gents. This RP looks like what I have been craving for for a while. I have checked over all the open positions on the ship, but I see a lack of Security post/resident brawler.

⊰Manifest Anima: Planes Divided⊱

Hidden Backup

---

Time

Day 2~Night

Location

Cedarvale Apartment Complex in the Lobby-Entertainment District, Ominar

---

Casually a dark skinned woman, dressed in a black leather capris and lacy, loose tank, pushed the door open. She stepped into the lobby of Cedarvale’s Apartments despite knowing no one was around. Her thick soled boots clicked across the tile floor as she moved deeper in, her dark eyes moved about the scene for any signs of life. At first she didn’t see anyone causing her lips to smile in comfort. Gently she lowered herself into a crouching position and opened her large hand bag’s top.

About six small rodents scampered out, then spread out to complete their preprogrammed task. Each vanished from sight quickly while she rose upright, pretending to have just arrived and wait patiently for additional information. In her wake, a week old cat skirted toward her. His half chewed ear rubbed against Afua’s leg then followed the motion with the rest of his bloated body. From an observer’s standpoint, he appeared to be over fed but on closer inspection they would noticed he was more overripe and seemed ready to spill out at any moment. Feeling the wiry fur brush against her leg, the necromancer lowered once again to pet the corpse affectionately.

As she casually looked towards the front entrance through the pane glass of the door, she could see 2 large black vehicles park in front of the building. Their headlights remained on, as the truck in front trembled as something huge disembarked from the back. It's massive figure slowly walking towards the entrance. The door opened, and a sudden thud made the undead cat turn and hiss in alarm.

“Ow…” The massive wolf-like creature rubbed its head, grimacing. Clearly, it hit its head against the doorframe.

From what she could see though the now open door, the beast covered the entire doorframe and then some, as she could no longer see the street on the other side. Its black fur was pristine, glistening against the dull light of the lobby’s lights. It wore a t-shirt that was probably oversized by human standards, a 6XL, that fit the creature perfectly, with a custom made shoulder holster containing a large hand cannon under the beast’s left armpit.

“I take it, Mr. Crowley might be not much for subtlety?” Afua pointed to the large weapon in the Canine Licenti’s holster, placed on display for everyone to see and likely assume the worst. There was only three individuals that knew where Ms. Patel was: Darius, Mr. Cortes, and Mr. Crowley. It was very slim he was a local in the apartment because she seriously doubted he was stupid enough to forgot about the low door frame and the ledger’s last recorded new tenant was nearly a month ago, plenty of time to get use to it. Mr. Cortes wasn’t accustomed to hiring Licentia due to his racial views so he was the least likely. Darius wouldn’t have sent someone else unless she was made aware and with good reason, her phone silent since she arrived.

That left only one plausible option for the Shetani (demon).

She casually rose upright and turned to face the werewolf, her cat still hissing in irritation at being startled. Her arms crossed over as she then added, “What are you here for?”

The wolf squeezed himself through the door with some effort, he was far too big to just walk through, so he bent his head down and slid in right shoulder and head first. As the ceiling was reasonably high in the lobby, he could stand somewhat upright. Afua could only guess, but it seemed that his height was around 10 feet fully upright.

“If he wanted subtlety, he would have had Mr. Cortes removed by now.” Rubbing his scalp again, he paused on how to word his following sentence. “The men that have decided to get out of bed today and follow through with Mr. Cortes’ orders are to be taken away for interrogation, presented to Mr. Cain in person as a gesture of goodwill in account for an earlier encounter.” He almost dictated that from memory.

“Not without stepping on Darius’ paws,” Afua commented quietly. Darius did his best not to step on Mr. Crowley’s toes in the business district, through he could’ve easily used his connections and contract with Mr. Crowley to create an underground black market. It was something she had wondered about until the Fox told her it was out of respect and understanding that if he fucked with another’s territory, he should expect the same gesture in kind and he didn’t desire an internal war of the wills.

“The gist of it is…” The wolf interrupted Afua’s thoughts. “He wants us to work together to bring those clowns back alive.”

She noted the mention of gesture for an earlier encounter, her eyebrow raised and a dark scowl crossed her expression, “Might you be telling me that Mr. Crowley is partly or fully responsible for the baas’ condition?”

“I don't really know the details about what happened down there, all I know is that he feels partly responsible for something.” The wolf replied, shrugging his shoulders.

Afua inhaled, her feet kicked the floor a moment then placed her hands into her pockets, “There’s better ways to make up for an incident than gift wrapping thugs. Namely if Cortes’ hand is forced, him end up pulling his hand before the baas has any chance for damage control. In the underworld, that’s outright dangerous not to follow your own rules and expect others to, could create more issues than needed.”

She ran her fingers through her dreadlocks a moment then added, “So you’ve got orders to capture them? I’ve been told to merely keep them from hurting a Ms. Vorobyova rather than stop them escaping. Mainly if they are captured, then Mr. Cortes assumes we’re onto his game and springs it early. This way, they can keep their cards hidden until we’re ready.”

A tumbling was heard coming from upstairs, and the Wolf’s ears twitched, focusing on the sounds above. “It seems like they already started…”

“Oh they started already,” Afua said, cryptically, as she eyed the roof area. Her eyes went completely white and hazed over the pupil, adding to her undead motif theme, “My little pet sees them in the kitchen. Ms. Vorobyova be trying to make the scene calmer and warn them off, but they aren’t quite buying it. Oooo, she be a shapeshifter like Mr. Cain too.”

“They’re thugs. They aren’t going to calm down.” Rex replied casually as he drew his revolver.

Afua nodded in agreement, her hand raised out and warned him to pause, “Not yet. They haven’t touched her and Mr. Cain told me to make note of her actions.”

The wolf grumbled. “Fine… I just wanna get this over with, I can’t leave my wife on her own…”

“Sounds you are insecure, through being a bielie I don’t see how-” Afua stopped mid sentence as her eyes widened and she abruptly took off up the stairs, her voice shouting back to Rex, “Come on!”

⊰Manifest Anima: Planes Divided⊱

A Walk into the Shadows

♤ Darius M Cain ♤, Ｓ z a y e i s, & Logan Crowley

---

Time

Day 2~Just After Midnight

Location

Underground Tunnels (The Abyss)-Lower District, Ominar

---

‘No...no, he can’t be here,’ Darius mentally screamed when he felt the flare of energy. He could only describe it as dark and cold as the sensation numbed him, its powerful grip swelled upon his being and caused him to still in fear. The kitsune barely felt the Russian mage lift his arm and wrap it over the thicker man’s neck, Boris’ figure pressed against Darius to support the petrified fox. It took a moment for the human to notice that Darius hadn’t moved, drawing his eyes to look at his boss and become completely confused.

Darius, his breathing heavy and deep, had lifted his golden eyes to stare at the nightwalker who had materialized in front of him. His ears pinned back and black lips curled back to give him a more feral appearance than the intelligent creature he usually presented himself to be in public. His fur bristled as his expression tightened into aggression, though it wouldn’t do him any good in his state.

He hated that look as memories surfaced whenever it appeared. It was often connected to disappointment, but the source varied either from his past attempts to outfox the nightwalker to whenever Szayeis saved him from being killed. Usually the source determined the aftermath that followed and that put Darius on edge. It had been three years since they had met face to face. For some humans, that was considered a long time but for most Licentia… that was more akin to a week than years.

The more recent ones, one being six months and another a year, were more distant means of communication which put him more at ease. They never made him feel like the frightened, weak child he did now.

It was Boris’ questioning voice that broke the reaction Darius had slipped into and rip the kitsune back into the present, “Who’s this, Darius?”

Golden eyes shifted to the Russian and observed him a moment, all aggression curled into ash when realization crossed his features. Then Darius returned to face Szayeis. How to answer the question was the most difficult task for him. Benefactor? No. Tormentor? Sometimes. Father? That would require love, according to any human that knew the definition and something Darius slightly doubted existed in the nightwalker. At least not the type that one would consider narrow and straight.

“That’s… a complicated question,” whispered Darius as he tried not to lean heavily into the metal mage. He knew Mr. Crowley was still lurking about and would show up when it was convenient for him, which Darius hoped never came. The last thing he wanted was Logan meeting Szayeis while he was in his wounded state. It took several moments to steady his racing heart and calm the raging instinct to either fight or flight, before his found his voice. He had no doubt Szayeis would’ve noted it, “I was hoping you would’ve arrived at a more… convenient time.”

Expression largely unchanged at seeing his son’s response, Darius would note a slight glint in the nightwalker’s eyes, a subtle expression of amusement at the Kitsune’s response to his presence. Terror, hatred, and unwilling subservience. “I save your life, time and time again, boy and yet, every time you see me you become an ugly, primal…” he gestured at Darius as if to indicate the entirety of his expression and body language, “...thing.”

He shook his head again and as he looked up at the Fox his expression had shifted, now slightly bemused. He began to circle Darius, the act of a predator surveying its prey, something that he knew was sure to draw forth caution in the Fox, while also stirring his hatred far more.

Darius’ head jerked to follow Szayeis’ movements as he watched the nightwalker circle. Every nerve ending in his brain tried to tug him into running, but that was an action that never ended well. Not then, and certainly not now. His tails hugged tightly to his figure physically showing what he desperately wanted to hide, his head able to only go so far, hindered by Boris who was still holding him upright and didn’t understand what was going on. Or why, for the first time, he was witnessing fear in Darius.

“I had intended to come offering gifts and the potential for better business, but you seem to have other ideas. Or am I to interpret that differently?” He again gestured at Darius, but this time specifically at his face. He stopped stalking, and held up a finger, “Don’t answer that.” It was not a request, but an order, something which the Fox’s subordinate was unlikely to pick up on--though the man would almost certainly detect the condescension in his words.

“If you’d rather I leave you alone, I suppose I could...given certain circumstances,” he smiled, displaying the malice, charisma, and devious manipulative intelligence that dwelled within him for the first time in their conversation. The expression, despite the nightwalker’s current form, was barely human.

To reinforce the impression, he raised his cane, and struck it once against the ground, eliciting an echo and causing a silent and invisible--but quite detectable--eruption of vis, which shot straight into the rubble of the collapsed tunnel. A distinct grinding coupled with a strange hum became immediately audible, and as it did Szayeis smirked at the two, before looking away from them and returning to his stalking. The moment he did so, the sounds ceased and the rubble settled back into place, “Or you could perhaps attempt to be civil, instead of acting like the feral Kitsune I found all those many years ago. Unless you’d like to end up like your father,” he shot Darius a glance, before looking away again, his words implying not just a descent into insanity for the Fox, but likely also death--after all, Szayeis had killed the Kitsune’s birth parent to save him.

At the threat, Darius cringed. All aggression slipped from his posture as his ears continued to be pinned back and head turned away, unable to continue the eye contact. It was a look Szayeis had witnessed numerous times. One of submission, acceptance and even realization that the nightwalker held the leash. Every bit of that threat Darius knew Szayeis could and would make happen the moment he was of no use to the nightwalker. It was a fear he couldn’t escape.

“Unless, of course, you have some kind of alternative, mmm?” He stopped, his position in the middle of the tunnel, opposite the rubble, his presence effectively blocking off their retreat. Yet, his demeanor made it seem as if he wasn’t even aware he had done it, implying an effortless sort of analysis, not to mention an ability to do just exactly what needed to be done in most situations.

Indeed, as manipulative men went, Szayeis was a fine specimen, and one day, he would have the world admit him as the best of them.

One day.

But that was a thought for later. For now, it was the impudent little Fox he had to deal with and honestly, that suited him just fine. After all, licentia lived forever so he was hardly short on time.

“Forgive me, I…overreacted,” Darius spoke, his ears still pinned to his skull through the growling tone had ceased. His head lifted to look at the ‘monster’ that raised him, his eyes still having difficulty in holding contact, as he continued, “I’m not my best when I’m wounded and instincts tend to be hard to control at the unexpected, a fact you will undoubtedly remember. I was hoping I wouldn’t be a mess when we met face to face and I could be able to present proper hospitality.”

‘And time to collect then brace myself against you,’ Darius added silently, his eyes still lowered in case Szayeis wasn’t satisfied with his attempt to be civil.

“I see,” he said, no amusement in his expression, making it impossible for Darius to tell if his apology had been accepted or not. After a long silence, he chuckled, “Very well,” he replied. “So, tell me, have you done anything in regards to the pestilence in your city?” When he uttered the word, it was as if an intense disgust came over him--but it was for but a brief second that it appeared before vanishing once more. Darius would know that the only beings that could invoke such disgust in the nightwalker were the prae.

Meanwhile, Boris would remain quite confused.

Darius remained still, his figure trying to rein everything he felt, as he listened to the nightwalker. His eyes careful to retain whatever contact he could stand before he spoke, carefully phrasing his words, “It’s been slow progression, mainly to avoid their attention. Each time I raise to a position they feel is unsuitable, they find ways to put me back to where they feel I belong. Sometimes I’ve gotten lucky enough to find loopholes that require they play nice, but as I’ve said it’s slower than expected.”

It wasn’t a lie, but it wasn’t the full truth. He had been following the path with the least collateral damage, the primary reason that his progression was slow and painfully lacking effect upon the prae. Boris, unsure what to do, twisted a bit then pressed a hand against the wound that started to seep a trickle of blood down the fox’s side.

“Hmm, I see, I suppose that is to be expected. They may be scum, but they are not complete idiots,” he paused, tapping a finger against the top of his cane, looking as if in thought. “Any particular notable developments of late?”

“Yes…” A voice came from behind Szayeis. “Me…” Logan Crowley always had this strange uncanny ability to show up at the worst moments. Something Darius grew to dislike overtime, but it was unavoidable. Crowley was like a mosquito, an annoying constant buzz in Darius’ ear, and impossible to get rid of. But it sure as hell was a better alternative to the Nightwalker, whether Darius liked the idea or not.

“I was always curious about Mr. Cain’s adoptive daddy. And now I finally get to meet him.” Logan’s purple irises inspected the creature before him, a sharp exhale escaping through his nose as a smirk emerged on his face. “Your reputation for ridiculous fashion sense proceeds you.” He was clearly mocking the Licentia, obviously unimpressed.

A presence shifted into existence just behind him and while his first instincts were to raze everything in his vicinity or shadow walk to gain distance, neither option would make him appear strong. Instead, he moved not at all, but kept his senses at peak performance so he could react if needed. However, it appeared to be one of the boy’s acquaintances, how disappointing.

He raised an eyebrow, but did not move in the least, his body betraying not even the slightest line of tension. He didn’t even turn to look at the man, instead using his unique senses to observe the man without overt notice.

His visage was familiar and it brought a small smile to his lips. “Ah, Mr. Crowley,” he said, his tone one addressing an old friend or rival, “...your reputation precedes you. I had intended to meet with you, but not so soon. I must be quite important for you to have dragged yourself from your home into these sewers.” All the while, he maintained the smile, his eyes locked on the Fox’s as if to say ‘You have some explaining to do, little one.’

“Or, perhaps Darius has garnered your attention, as he should. I taught him well.” His grin widened almost imperceptibly, as the look in his eyes shifted again. The nightwalker did not appear to care if Logan saw his expression for some reason.

Nothing, in Darius’ mind, screamed pawn or gnat like being caught between hungry, and dangerous giants in a game he was still learning. It was the nature of manipulation and shadows after all to continually shift and change hands. The Fox swallowed at the verbal conversation between the two as he caught Szayeis’ eyes focused on him. His arm tightened about Boris, the Russian still distracted by trying to stop the blood, and tried to not give anything away to betray he knew this whole ordeal would end terribly.

“I’m here to discuss with Darius how disappointed I am with his performance with dealing with his current problem, you know her very well.” Logan casually walked around Szayeis, placing himself in between the fox and the Licentia, hiding the Kitsune from the being’s view. “Krysta.”

“You see, I have been observing the situation for a while. And I have noticed something quite annoying.” Logan’s face turned into a scowl. “I assume this is how you teach your children. Force them to battle it out and see which is the strongest. That’s how you always presented Darius’ challenges. Contracts. You are very good at those.” He paused to let his tone and message sink in.

“You see. Your little… challenge, is causing some issues with my contract. Issues that are costing me time and money. Now when I have found out that you were the one handing out the cards, it made things a little more complicated. I was going to give Darius another chance, but now…” He looked back at Darius, the disappointment in his face was gut wrenching. “But now, I have to take matters into my own hands. Krysta is no longer the problem, you are. You are playing a very dangerous game by stepping on my toes…”

His head turned back to Szayeis, seemingly in thought. “Getting rid of you right here and now would be too easy, and damn boring. So, how about a wager? Your shard contract is the prize.”

“Ah, I see, so your influence has gone to your head,” he said, smile still present as the man stepped between him and his Kitsune. He sighed, shook his head, and rubbed his temples before letting his hand fall back to the cane that stood planted between the floor and his hands just before him.

It was odd, he had outright ignored 90% of what the man had said. As his head rose to regard the man again, his smile had faded and he looked rather serious. “You look down on those who regulate the darker recesses of human society and you idealistically think they can be removed in time. I have lived over one thousand years and have numerous records and first hand accounts of human civilization. I can tell you that this is simply not how their psychology works. Of course, you humans have a tendency to see either the best or the worst in your own so I do understand your bias.” He paused a moment, as if taking the measure of the man, “Nonetheless, you have done well for yourself. Too well in too short a time. Building wealth takes time, and you’ve not had enough of it. What is it you really want, Mr. Crowley?”

He had heard the man’s earlier conversations with Krysta’s minions, after all, he’d watched the entire encounter and had had reason to. Beyond that, Ominar had always been something of a point of interest--what with his son living there--and when the prae had arrived he had been driven to do as much research on the players of the city as he could.

He’d found odd things about Crowley then and, in typical licenti fashion, he had not forgotten a single detail. It was with this knowledge and the knowledge of the experience of many humans and licentia before him that he asked his question and made his argument.

Of course, on the inside, he found one thing strange: Why was it that the human made him almost treat him as an equal simply by being?

“Let’s not kid ourselves here Szayeis, we both have been watching each other for a long time. My long term interests do not concern you, but my current ones do. We both want the the Prae out of Ominar, for similar reasons. Your methods, however, are getting in my way.” Logan responded with the primary point. The Licenti didn’t need to know anything other than that.

“If you think my methods impede yours by design or in general, then you are foolishly not paying enough attention, besides, I just got here yesterday.” He flashed the man a smile, before letting it fade.

“That you did, but your strings expand beyond Licentia. And that concerns me.” Logan stared into the Licenti’s eyes. “My wager still stands, wanna know the winning conditions?”

He sighed, “I suppose I can humor you.” Something had subtly shifted about his demeanor, as if he was swiftly losing interest.

“Bored already? Then what I’m about to say should make things interesting. Whoever undermines the Prae the most, while also undermining his opponent, wins. We can use any means necessary, both against each other, and the Prae.

“You win? Darius is all yours, and you can deal with what’s left of the Prae as you wish, I won’t stop you. Now if I win, I become Darius’ contractor, and take your place. Anytime you attempt to even step foot on Medius, I will send you back, and if you continue to try, then I will personally kill you.” Logan put his hand into his trench coat, and pulled out what appeared to be a scroll, which he hung above his head to let it unravel. “This is the contract between us for our little game, stating the terms and the conditions of this match…” The contract was written in pure vis, each word written in Licentian. Logan’s signature, written in vis, rested at the bottom of the scroll. “You don’t have to sign it, but know that if you don’t, I will kill you right here and now.”

The boredom slipped away, there was no smile, no expression, and not even any telling body language. He opened his mouth slightly, a frown forming, then slipping away again as his mouth closed. He sighed, “You are perhaps the least intelligent businessman I have ever encountered.”

“If you wish to test that theory, then don’t sign the scroll. I wouldn’t threaten you if we didn’t stand on equal footing” Logan was serious. This wasn’t a simple threat, but a warning.

Darius growled, deep and bared his teeth at the threat Mr. Crowley presented, “Logan Crowley, I would kindly appreciate it if you recall the contract’s legal applications. Voiding it will hurt you more than benefit or get your point across. In addition, if you know kitsune as well as you seem to then you know I can’t allow that…”

“When presenting a game, you make the win conditions equal on both sides, not stilted in your favor. Otherwise, all involved will not wish to play as there is no real gain from doing so. Additionally, I would like to inform you of something. My life has no value.”

“You see, if you could actually destroy me, I would have made that a winning condition.”

Szayeis sighed, “If you kill me, everything you are fighting for will be meaningless. You will feel self satisfied for a brief time, and then, as the dominoes fall, your small victory will turn to ash in your mouth and you will know what it means to be beaten.” He paused a moment, looking at the scroll, “You may kill me if you wish, but I will simply not sign a contract whose losing conditions involve either my death or permanent exile from an entire realm, loss me a son and numerous other assets and even friendships, I dare say, while it’s win conditions give me nothing I could not have had without the deal.”

He lifted one hand from his cane, letting it rest at his side, “Furthermore, I can see that there is no love lost between you and I, as you humans say. Yet, I find it funny, for while that applies to you, I simply do not care. My life is as much a tool as everyone I arrange across the board, and having thought you would be...more intelligent, I had planned to work alongside you, even let you in on the finer attributes of my scheme. Except, here you stand, threatening my life, my freedom, and my happiness whilst giving no equally good alternative.”

“I would work with you, not against you, but I see--in your eyes--that the only thing you wish to do with me is fight, and then kill me. You are not just a terrible businessman, but you are a foolish man. if you are indeed a man at all.”

Szayeis tapped his cane against the ground once, but nothing happened.

Darius’ head twisted about behind him, his eyes narrowed on the tunnel and the warped metal. There was likely only one way to prevent this conflict and likely be heard by the ‘titans’ independently. However, he mentally hated the idea as he gashed his teeth over it a moment. It meant someone, him and possibly Boris, were going to have to risk dying when this ploy paid off.

Leaning into Boris, knowing that Szayeis would hear, the kitsune spoke quietly, “Open the tunnel behind us, now.”

“What?” Boris asked, his eyes widened and looked terrified at the notion of letting in the Djinn, “That thing will kill us-”

Just as Boris questioned Darius’ order, gunfire erupted from behind the rubble. “I’m sorry Darius.” Logan said. “But this is between me and him, let's keep it that way.”

“That’s where you’re wrong, Logan…” Darius’ eyes tightened and his fur edged on end, his figure stepped from Boris’ support.

He immediately turned, cold air forming around his arm, outstretched, sending a bolt of ice towards Darius’ and Boris’ feet. They both could quickly feel the coldness crawl up their legs and towards their torso. They were freezing solid.

Without moving at all, Szayeis stared. The rubble turned to dust and the ice shattered and then dissolved into puddles on the floor.

The Djinn stumbled back into the tunnel, in completely solid form, wounded and bleeding as magnetically accelerated steel bolts ripped through its body, its wounds attempted to heal quickly, but it couldn’t keep up with the sheer firepower. As it stumbled and fell on its back, its left arm was ripped clean off, one of the bolts just passing by both Logan and Szayeis, leaving them to feel the shockwave of the rogue round, making Logan’s coat move with the gust of air.

“Ugh, fine.” Logan grunted, raising his arm again.

However, before he did anything, Szayeis glanced at him and smiled, “Teleport that man, and he will come out the other side in shreds.”

His hand quickly shifts to Szayeis. He knows, it won’t do anything major, but it will disorient him. Szayeis suddenly felt like he was coming apart, his body dismantling atom by atom, and coming back together again, right in front of Logan.

The slipped out of his fingers as it was quickly kicked aside, clangs echoing throughout the tunnel as the cane skirted across the concrete. Logan’s hand shot out and grabbed Szayeis by the throat. He knew it was momentary, as the Nightwalker could easily slip through his fingers if he wanted to, unless he had already accepted his fate.

The cane slid across the floor of the tunnel, and then dematerialized. One of Szayeis’ hands moved up and wrapped its fingers around the wrist of the seeming human. His other arm drew back, as if holding a spear, and thrust forwards. Something wild had come into the nightwalker’s eyes, like a mixture of remembered fear, hatred, disgust, and rage.

As Logan noticed it, the cane would already be impaled through his torso, below his heart, not hitting anything vital. The nightwalker exhaled slowly, and as he did so the tension in his body slowly seeped away and the look in his eyes first became a dull flame, then embers, before extinguishing.

“Let go, Logan,” he said, as if his throat was not being crushed, his voice entirely unaffected. “You wish to fight, but you have already lost. Besides, if you kill me, you lose far more, and as I said, I will not be signing your contract.”

The cane’s head pulsed inside the ‘human’s’ body, emitting slowly escalating sound waves. “In approximately 5 seconds I will liquify your body. Withdraw.”

During all this, Darius had been focusing on his magic. He ignored the pain coursing through his veins and continued, his shadow twisting then shifting. It raced up his legs and darkened his usually brightly orange fur as it swallowed him. Sounds of bones cracking and breaking were heard causing Boris to step back in worry, the Kitsune’s figure taking a new shape. He was on all fours with his fox like form covered with what appeared to be spiky fur and a larger head, the gaps in mass filled in by shadow like canvas covering the holes.

With no thought in his head, Darius lunged forward at Logan’s seemingly exposed back. His large muzzle dipped with teeth flashing then went to sink into the shoulder.

Logan took the cane with his free hand, and slowly pushed it out, teetering on the 5 seconds as the head of the cane came out and the hole began to heal itself. “Go ahead. Do it.”

“I take no joy from this,” he said, and then promptly he reorganized the spell matrix of his spell, liquified both of Logan’s arms and blasted him back, straight at Darius’ mouth. He landed on his feet and tapped the cane against the ground, immediately feeling his entire body relax as his form returned to its more...malleable natural state, though it retained the same appearance.

Instead of landing in Darius’ mouth, what was left of Logan’s body exploded in a shower of blood and gibs, sending shards of bone matter into Darius’ mutated face as he passed through the cloud of blood.

Darius’ jaws snapped down on nothing. Cuts of where the bone sliced into him gave a crimson taint to his dark fur and scratched at his eyes, digging one stubborn piece out. His haunches were still raised while his head turned about in alert, seeing anything besides Szayeis to rip into pieces.
Boris stepped forward, his eyes narrowed on the beast before him, “Darius…”

The fox’s head jerked about and settled on the human mage, his teeth still displayed in a feral fashion. Darius’ paw took a step towards Boris.

Unfazed by the gore, Szayeis lifted the cane and tapped Darius’ nose and, in a gesture that Aeris was sure to feel, drew on the girl’s unique healing power and weaved it with an illusion. The fox would feel an overwhelming wave of calm and relief suffuse him, and any primal rage that remained would find no one ‘cept Szayeis, to target, as Boris had become invisible, hidden by an illusion. “Wake, child,” he said firmly, yet, his senses kept track of his surroundings. After all, the man had talked up his abilities and this had felt too easy.

Darius shuddered and his eyes settled on Szayeis, darkness swirling and breaking the usually golden irises. The ripples of shadow embedded and gradually faded when the energy of the healing caused it to retract back, no longer present. Awareness and intelligence took its place causing Darius’ figure to begin to crack, shift and revert back to his original shape. The kitsune was on his knees as he trembled quietly, weakened by his push past his limits, and still covered in whatever bone attached itself to his flesh. Usually it would’ve been healed when he shapeshifted back, but even the wound from the arrow by Krysta hadn’t vanished.

“Is… is he gone?” Darius asked in a raw and shaken voice.

The cloud of blood from Logan’s explosive exit remained suspended in the air. Suddenly, the sickening sound of twisting meat echoed within the tunnel. Within the cloud, a body was forming, very rapidly.

The torso formed first along with the head, its dead eyes staring deeply into Szayeis’ as its limbs grew. Clearly, Logan was not human. At least in the natural sense of the word. “I’m disappointed.” Its voice gargled as the organs were still forming. “I was hoping that we would use good old fists instead of vis…” As he spoke his voice became more and more normal until the end of his sentence, when he fully formed.

“But… this does conclude my test…” Logan said with a smile, his clothes reforming from the shreds left by his own suicide. “You would make quite the asset for Armax. You held your ground despite the possibility of death, and called out an unfair contract. Well played, Mr. Aka’Aeria.” Logan seemed far more polite than before. Was this a test? Or was he trying to fool Szayeis?

Szayeis’ eyes shifted over to what would be a gruesome sight for most, but was sadly not for him. “Ah, so my instincts were correct, you’re not human,” he said, as if it was common sense. Of course, he couldn’t help but wonder what the man really was. “I see, so you expect me to ally with you, now that you’ve attempted to kill me? Amusing.”

However, while he said the word, he did not smile, instead he glanced at Darius, “No, but it appears the conflict has been solved, in a fashion.” Sighing a moment he shook his head and then, finally, smiled slightly--something occurring to him. “It’s rather funny that you felt it necessary to test me. You’d think the fact that I’m an internationally recognized criminal and threat to human society would be enough to convince you. Especially considering the fact that I still roam free despite having accrued the hatred of so many.”

“Nonetheless, well played. However...” he began, trailing off. As he did so, his cane slipped down in his hand and struck the ground again. The smile remained on his face as he met Logan’s eyes. For a very brief moment an excruciating pain would resound throughout the inhuman man’s body, before--as swiftly as it had appeared--subsiding. “...it appears you have taken in a spell matrix.” His smile widened.

Logan winced slightly at the nudge of pain, his hands still in his pockets. “I guess I deserve that for playing you.” He took a hand out of his pocket, and placed it on his chest where the cane originally stabbed him. A strange purple light beamed on the spot, and the matrix was dismantled. “But there is a cure for everything.”

“Now… to the real reason I’m here.” Logan walked up to the trio. “We both want to get rid of the Prae, but we have different ideas as to how we can go about that. Darius and I, wish to avoid needless casualties, you wish to make it hurt for them, no matter the cost. What if we could combine our efforts, and find a middle ground?”

“I’m listening,” he said, his smile shifting to a considerably more conservative look of amusement. It appeared that the businessman was in fact capable of speaking his language. Granted, he’d almost been told how to. Testing him had truly been a waste of time, but no matter.

“Apologies for the needless violence. But there are a few… imitators out there. Wanted to make sure you were the real thing, even if it did take some time off your busy schedule.” He took a look at Darius for a moment, realizing his suit was practically destroyed. “Need to send this man a nice suit…” He said seemingly to himself.

“So, back on topic. I have the information network that you need to get your hands on the right Prae, while you have the manpower to get the job done. I have the hardware you need, and you have the influence to spread the resistance’s cause. Etcetera and etcetera.” Logan paused as he thought on what to say next. “But let’s not bore each other with the details. My conditions are that we avoid innocent casualties. I’m assuming that yours, are to find the Prae responsible for your unfortunate run in with the Prae…” He watched Szayeis’ reaction. “Apologies if I have brought up bad memories. But your past isn’t exactly hidden away. I came across some Licentia that mentioned your name when asked about their previous encounters with the Prae. I can find and get you the people responsible. How you deal with them, is up to you.”

Initially, he was receptive nodding thoughtfully and listening whilst keeping a close eye on Darius’ condition. It was surely a good thing he’d left Aeris at the Fox’s mansion, the thought made him smile slightly, but it didn’t last, for in the next moment words he hadn’t heard from any human mouths were uttered. His vis surged, his jaw muscles tightened, and he forced himself to breath deeply in an attempt to disperse the cocktail of dangerously explosive, negative emotions. Through gritted teeth he responded, “I would ask, that you never speak of that again,” the nightwalker said as--slowly--his vis retreated from the environment around them.

“Fair enough.” Logan nodded casually. He thought it would trigger him, but there was no way around mentioning it. It was the core of his motivations, and it was an important thing to note. His motives were tied heavily to his emotions, and that’s something he wished to test in their little squabble. He saw his eyes and how his rage manifested. Logan could tell it would be far worse for the Prae he would hand over to Szayeis in the future.

Taking another moment or two to calm himself, Szayeis took in deep breaths until he could, properly converse without having the constant urge to KiLL, he winced slightly at the intrusive thought, his mind clearing of red. He cleared his throat, “Regardless, I do think that sounds far more reasonable than your prior suggestion. I would like to...” he gave Logan a look before continuing, “...that what we are doing is still effectively treason and rebellion. These things tend to get messy.”

He paused again and then sighed, managing a slightly weak chuckle, something that made him irritated though he showed it not at all. “I can temper the vast majority of my plans to...minimize casualties, but I’ll have you know there will be chaos. As to your offer.”

He paused for emphasis, his pupils narrowing to slits, “I do not need help, dealing with the prae.” The words said, Szayeis’ expression lightened and he nodded his head to the man, before he knelt down and, in a rare gesture of kindness, placed his hand on Darius’ side and gave the Fox a considerable pulse of vis. When he was done, he spoke again, “Boris, get to ground and call ahead to the mansion, he’ll be needing treatment when he arrives. Find a way back on your own, I’m taking Darius, he’s too weak to walk.”

Boris looked undecided as he watched the exchange between the Fox and the stranger, but nodded, “Alright, just...nevermind.”

Shaking off everything that happened, he began to rush past the bizarre man that literally been blown apart and reformed like some inhuman thing. In moments his figure vanished into the darkness toward the surface.

Meanwhile, Darius’ figure quivered at the touch on reaction then eased up. His golden eyes, dancing with confusion and curiosity, hadn’t left Szayeis as if staring at the nightwalker might yield information. However, nothing came naturally. When the vis pulsed, Darius let out a soft, vulpine whimper which sounded more like a squeak then focused on ignoring the pain. His breathing was heavy as he listened to Szayeis, acknowledging the holder of his pact’s will.

“I can deal with all the paperwork that comes up from our meddling.” Logan said as Boris made his way out. “And I don’t doubt your ability with dealing with the Prae. Like I said, I’m leaving that up to you. But of course, not all the Prae. That falls under the needless casualties part. But I can explain the reasons at another, more appropriate time.” He reached into his trench coat, and handed Szayeis his business card. “Give me a call when you are ready and have plenty of time in your schedule. We must discuss plans.”

“You and I will have a discussion over your… methods later,” Darius managed to force out at Logan, his tone showed his irked mood over the whole situation.

“That we will, Darius…”

With things more or less squared away, Szayeis simply nodded to the man and took the card, using more basic vis manipulation to slip it into a pocket somewhere. “Noted,” he said in acknowledgement, before he stood and then began pulling shadows from their surroundings. Boris appeared to already be gone, surely finding a way to call the mansion.

Szayeis sighed as he looked down at Darius, before shaking his head and continuing the process it took for him to properly transport the Fox to his home. After all, normal beings were not built to shadow walk in the normal fashion as nightwalkers were.

A crack of lightning was heard as a Rift ripped open in front of Szayeis and Darius. “Save yourself the vis. Call it a small part of me making it up to both of you for earlier events.” On the other side, they could see the bedroom of Darius’ mansion.

Szayeis’ eyes widened almost imperceptibly, his senses analyzing the rift for a moment, “Hmm, very well,” he said, and rather than engulf them, the shadows merely picked Darius up and carried him through the portal, after which Szayeis followed, vanishing into a shadow.

Briefly, he used his senses and the dark of night to notify him of Darius’ status, finding him safely in his mansion. Content with this, he departed entirely, heading off to recuperate and take care of other business. It was going to be an interesting day.

⊰Manifest Anima: Planes Divided⊱

Twist and Turns into the Abyss

♤ Darius M Cain ♤ & Logan Crowley

---

Time

Day 2~Just After Midnight

Location

Underground Tunnels-Lower District, Ominar

---

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?”

“Yes,” Darius commented, his eyes returned to tunnel’s end as they drew nearer, “According to the information of one of her friends, 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.”

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.

“She is close. Afua, would you so kindly send your little pets to flush them out?”

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.

“Afua, Boris let’s go now,” 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’.”

“I think you’ll be making her wait a little bit longer,” 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?

“Now, now…” 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. “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?”
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. “Two…” The man muttered under his breath. Counting something in his mind. “Are you sure you do not wish to talk… Angela?” 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, “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.”

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-”

“Do you talk to your mother with that mouth, Angela, let alone your employers?”
“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.

“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?” The man’s gaze turned to the stone ogre. “And what about you? Is this really worth the money Kystra is paying you? I’m sure you’re talents could be used wisely.”

“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.”

“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.” He looked back at Angela. “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.”

“And you, Rufus, your heart is in the right place, yet I can see that you doubt yourself, doubt the path you're taking.” He paused for a moment, reaching into his elegant trench coat to pull out a pair of business cards. “I think it’s time for both of you to leave. But please, consider my offer. Feel free to give a call at anytime.” 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. “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...” He inspected her handgun, and seemed a little disappointed. “...with more punch. Wanna make yourself presentable for the interview.”

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.”

“Then here is an advance.” 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, “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?”

“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.

“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.”

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?”

“Think about it realistically” Logan began. “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?”

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.”

“Oh, don’t worry about that. His time is short regardless. Now go get yourself some sleep. You could use it…” 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. “Darius… attempting clean up your mess, I see.”

“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,” He waved off both Afua and Boris, sending them to walk back to the exit where they stood alert and nervous, “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.”

“Everybody dies eventually Darius. We all do. Whatever the circumstances may be.” Logan pause to regard the fox for a moment before continuing. “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.”

“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,” 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, “Now what do you intend on doing?”

“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.” 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.