

Be not afraid of the heart's desires.

Be even less afraid of achieving them.

MOTILITY

THEN...

Irene got to the train and was on her way to Valeria.

It was 12:38pm and the train had just left the station. She was browsing the messages her friends from work had been exchanging in their little group. Many of them were talking about the gig at the Skuller later that evening with the Pharoahtics performing there.

I hope the group have already arrived, I really don't wanna wait for a performance at the Skuller doing nothing but watching kids dance.

One of her work mates sent the text as she travelled, soon a reply came.

I heard that they arrived yesterday afternoon. It's rumoured that they're staying at the Luxor. Lucky them. :/

The texts kept flying in. Irene was soon searching for the Pharoahtics on the internet, not much was available as they weren't such a big deal in Arc Vale but when she refined her search, she found that they were quite popular back in Paridosa, especially Triccoli. This helped her identify who she assumed was her target; Brianna aka "Queen Lord." She was amazed by some of Brianna's work and was feeling terrible when she realized that she was about to potentially ruin her life.

Hena and Presto were seated further down the train and would keep an eye on her every so often to make sure that they never missed an important detail.

"N. Squad we are aboard the train with user K.O, she is yet to make or receive any calls but is constantly browsing her phone. Jorex, maybe you can manoeuvre your way into her phone and see what she's reading."

"Alright Hena, we're readily awaiting your arrival."

Piettro and the team had already set up strategic positions to make sure they didn't lose her no matter how she decided to get to the Haven.

"I'll see what I can do but if it's nothing important, this isn't going to become a gossip group," teased Jorex.

"Send the results to my MPC," said Adria, who was browsing through files of the Haven from the van. "Will do," responded Jorex. The train continued its journey towards Valeria and at the underwater intersection Hena and Presto were impressed.

"Pretty neat hey." Stated Presto.

"Oh yeah, the creativity to do this though. Mind blowing."

They both giggled as they shared the light moment.

"Alright people, looks like we know who the artist user K.O. is after. She goes by the stage name Queen Lord. Her real name is Brianna Maldovic and she's from Triccoli. The artists are performing at the Skuller later tonight and will likely be at the Haven after the performance. We're working with a tight window here people. They are already in Valeria and are staying at the Luxor.

This information is subjective, and it needs to be confirmed so N. Squad, Hena and Presto you need to find a way to get to the artists as soon as possible whilst keeping track of Irene."

"Got it Adria, thanks for the update." Responded Piettro. His team didn't move an inch.

"Hena, Presto and Paula you are to follow Irene and keep a close watch of the situation at the Haven. Feedback must be relayed to Adria. The rest of us will be on the artists."

"Copy that boss," responded Presto.

The train was at the Valeria station at 12:58pm.
"User K.O. has left the train. Confirm that you have a visual." voiced Presto.

"Affirmative, I have a visual." Paula tagged Irene visually but hadn't made any movements.

"We shall converge at the exit of the station."

"Copy that Presto."

Irene walked out of the station with her phone pressed against her ear, she was on the phone with Haley.

"Hey Hay,"

"Hey love, you alright?" Asked Haley.

"I'm good, on my way to work. Is everything alright?"

"Oh yeah everything is okay. I just wanted to make sure that you were okay."

"I'm okay."

"Good. Have a good day then."

"Thanks, you too."

Haley cut the call and Irene called for a cab. The driver quickly parked in the temporary parking slot.

Soon she was being driven to the Haven in the navy-blue cab. Presto, Hena and Paula were close behind and soon also called for a cab.

"To the Haven, how much?" Asked Hena.

"Four Narks." Answered the cabby dryly.

They got in and were on their way to the Haven.

\---

NOW...

"I bet we don't look like a couple of normal "back-stagers" to these Valerians, if only they knew." They laughed to each other. They were soon silent and focused on where the cab was headed.

"Since you're such a gentleman Pres, you'll be carrying our luggage to the closest place that we can spend a night, you book for one night only. Little lady we're going to the Haven."
Paula's instructions were coy but clear. Presto noticed how

awkward it would be being seen by the cab driver talking to Adria through the comms, so he pulled out a device that looked like a mobile phone to cover the potentially revealing situation.

"Can you hear me?" He was unsure of how else to start a conversation without causing too much awkwardness between him and Adria.

"Yes, Tarent?"

"Yes, I need your help. I'm looking for the closest accommodation to the Haven, need it ASAP."

"Alright give me a moment."

Adria turned to Ylkov back in the bus.

"Hey, I'm a little swamped right now, can you check for a hotel or motel closest to the Haven and assist the N. Squad please."

"Sure, I'll patch it through to the crew."

"Thanks, Ylkov."

There was a moment of silence of the comms as Ylkov search for Tarent's request. Meanwhile in the cab, the three soldiers were getting themselves ready for staring at each other as the silence caused a vacuum like atmosphere. Though the information on the mission wasn't very clear, it was obvious that there was a lot that was yet to occur and in a few hours' time things could get ugly quickly.

A slight crackle and Ylkov was speaking through the comms;

"You're in luck. There is a motel across the road from the Haven and it's open for service 24/7." With the improvised device still pressed. Against his ear, Presto responded;

"Great, name please."

"The Vine House and it looks pretty neat." Presto chuckled briefly.

"I'm sure that's our main reason for going there." He responded sarcastically.

"Good luck soldiers."
Again, silence.

"Looks like that area is sorted," Presto said to ladies.

"Yeah, so how are we going to do this?" His question was directed to Paula who sat on the far end of the seat, with Hena in between them.

"You can go and sort that out whilst we go and see what our friend is up to. You can decide the arrangement." Presto couldn't be any less bothered by the sleeping arrangements, the mission was the main priority. Paula and Hena turned and smiled at each other. They both had a silly thought on their minds of how Presto would feel about being alone in a room. He saw the smiles on their faces.

"How about you Ma'am any suggestions?" Presto was teasing Hena and they all knew it but it was only right to address the elephant on the bus.

"We all can share if you like but I'm not afraid of riding solo." Her tone was annoying to Presto but Paula loved it.

"Look I'm just thinking about the expenses, we're no billionaires you know."

"Oh, I know. However, I also know you're not that foolish. We all know your mathematics isn't that sloppy."

Presto was agitated. For some reason the pair were already in a mood to get rid of him for their infiltration into the Haven to track Irene.

"You two are obviously ready for a night cap. I need some cash." Presto teased the pair as he stretched out his hand towards Hena who had the cash they needed for the night.

"How much?" She saw that Presto was no longer willing to participate in their little game.

"I don't know, I'm sure three hundred Narks is enough for now. I'll let you know if otherwise."

Hena reached for a pocket in a smaller bag and got out a thick bundle of notes.
She handed him the amount he requested and then there was silence.

It wasn't long before they got out of the cab in the restaurant's parking lot. The restaurant was a large building with several glass windowed floors. For a moment Paula wasn't sure if they were up for the task.

"How are we supposed to find her in all that? It looks like one of those fancy places where the second you enter it you're approached by a waiter."

"That's true," responded Hena.

"We'll think of something, we can't let her out of our sight for too long."

Presto turned to see the motel where he was supposed to go.

"Well I'll take my leave let me know if you need anything."

"You're not going for a sleepover, you've got half an hour to get back here, no longer." Responded Paula.

"Got it sir." His tone now less cheerful.

They parted and right after doing so, Presto couldn't help but notice how serious things were. Five soldiers in the heart of mafia territory looking like a group of lost "back-stagers" (which in these parts was an uncomfortable situation). His walk across the road to the Vine House was as awkward as it gets. Many strange looks grazed him as he passed other pedestrians.

He increased his walking speed and was soon entering the reception of what was a rather large motel.

He approached the front desk where a lady stood with a very professional smile worn on her face to welcome him.

"Good afternoon sir, welcome to the Vineyard, how may I help you?"

"Good afternoon." Presto was smiling as he responded to the lady's warm reception.
"I'm looking for two of your most affordable rooms; one single, another for two."

"Of course, give me a moment please."

She typed quickly on the keyboard in front of her and waited a few moments before responding.

"There are two rooms available sir. The single goes for eighty Narks per night and the double for one hundred and fifty per night also. May I check you in?"

"Sure, that'll be great. For the double there'll be two ladies checking in later on today, but you can put the reservation under my name; Clive."

"That'll be fine sir. What is the duration of your stay and how will you be paying?"

Presto reached for the money in his trousers' front pocket and placed the notes on the counter.

"Cash for a night with the provision of extending the stay left open please."

"That is fine sir. Check out time is 10:00am and your change will be brought up to your room along with a complimentary snack, it's on the house. You also have the option of wrist bands or key cards to access your room, the choice is yours." She placed three wrist bands and three key cards on the counter for him to choose. He went for the wrist bands.

"Thank you, Yvonne." Her name was embedded in a name tag pinned to her uniform.

"You're welcome sir. Your rooms are on the 2nd floor. Will you be needing help with your luggage?"

"Thank you. I'll manage alone."

"Okay. Enjoy your stay."

Presto nodded politely, turned and headed for the elevator at the far end of the reception. As it went up, he started speaking with his compatriots.
"Hena and Paula come in."

"Yes Presto, have you managed?" responded Paula

"I have, I will be delayed slightly but your room is on the second floor. Room number 9951."

"Thanks, why will you be delayed?"

"I have to wait for the change and I'll probably have a snack. It's complimentary so don't order for me."

"Alright but don't take too long we've managed to locate Irene. We're apparently scouting for where to set things up later this evening...you'll be looking for two ladies, one named Violet another Jane."

"Alright, sure. My name here's Clive and you're under my reservation. What is the status at the Luxor?"

By the time Presto asked the question he was already in his room.

"Piettro here, it's good to hear that you're making progress. We've not been successful in locating our artist friends but we're close. Y' all better not get too comfortable we might be spending the night at your place tonight."

"Sure, thing boss. Keep us updated."

\---

THEN...

"Okay, before we enter this place are you sure we can trust this food?" Inquired Kyle.

"We still got a long way to ArcVale, the last thing I want is for my stomach to give me problems."

"Oh, come on man, where's your sense of adventure?" Scotty hadn't thought of what Kyle had brought up but he was extremely surprised when Brianna brought up the whole, 'where's your sense of adventure' line.

Maybe Kyle was right. Maybe the food would have a negative effect on their stomachs. They couldn't afford to risk that when they were only hours away from a performance.
"Queen, maybe Fleez is right." She immediately rolled her eyes.

"What? You're siding with Fleez? Look Scott, you're practically the one that dragged me and Fleez out here anyway. You lead the way now get us into that food joint and tell your intestines to toughen up coz I'm hungry and we're all eating." The menacing looks on her face matched the high pitch in her voice. She was infuriated by what was about to happen.

"Alright Cruella...no need to get your knickers in a

Knott." Fleez was as sarcastic as ever. Scott smiled as he watched the eye contact between Kyle and Brianna.

"Alright before we end up eating each other, let's go

grab some Jaroka chowder," Said Scotty.

The two looked at him and laughed.

"Who the hell says chowder?" Teased Kyle.

"Like seriously dude...you should've just stuck to food," Added Brianna. The three were back to being socially affluent and headed into The Farmer's Food Stop for a mouth filling meal. When they entered, the cool breeze that greeted them from the fans mounted in the ceilings was a good sign. The place was surprisingly sanitary and actually more inviting than they all expected. A waiter quickly came to them with a pen and paper in his hand.

"Welcome to the farmer's food stop, will your meals be take-away or sit in?"

"Takeaway, can we please have a menu?" Fleez was up to the task of trying to organizing everything (as usual). The waiter directed them to take a seat at the table closest to them. After three menus were brought to their table, they all browsed through and started ordering. The meals they ordered weren't too sophisticated, each one had remembered that they were working on a tight schedule and the coach waited for no one. Within ten minutes of their order the waiter approached them with carrier bags for each of them and a combined bill.
They all looked at each other and smiled.

"You pay for what you ordered." A stern look appeared on Brianna's face as she dished out her order. Scotty revealed a few notes with some coins and so did Brianna. Kyle had ordered a more expensive yet simple meal and didn't have enough cash on him to completely pay for his meal. Brianna looked at Scotty,

"You really think I'm gonna pay for his meal?" He said with a cheesy smile across his face. Brianna shook her head and removed a single note. She retrieved her previous payment from the booklet that contained the bill and looked at the total

amount. She realized her change wasn't much.

"You can keep the change."

The three quickly picked up their meals and headed towards the coach. The driver waited another five or so minutes before closing the doors and turning the coach's engine on. They were heading for the Arc Vale border and the thought excited the trio as they indulged in some juicy Jaroka chowder. Lisa watched Scotty get through his meal with a hint of savagery as he devoured his food speedily.

"You know, if I was wanting to have some you just made it very certain it's a definite no." She couldn't help but tease him about his eating. He looked to his side by turning his head. He stopped chewing halfway through a juicy piece of his steak. The comment was heard but he withheld his response. He paused a few seconds before he continued chewing as he was before she interrupted. This humoured Lisa and she laughed gently. She waited until he chewed and swallowed the mouthful.

"You know, I think you're a nice guy. You should talk

more." Scotty wiped his mouth with a napkin and

turned to her.
"Believe me, it's better this way." His face was blank but his eyes brimmed with an excitement caused by the delicious food. Lisa didn't quite know how to take his words but the seriousness with which he said them really showed her that he meant his words. Scotty felt a slight rush of pity as he silenced Lisa. He had bought two energy drinks for the remainder of the journey. Knowing that she too enjoyed the same flavour, he offered her one.

"Here, don't go kill yourself." He wasn't sorry for how he acted, he hoped the gesture showed her that he didn't mean to hurt her. Her facial expression revealed exactly how odd his choice of words were but there was something in his eyes that revealed a genuine sense of care and compassion. She took the gift and put it in the cup holder that extended from the seat in front of her. Scotty continued to indulge in his meal, he didn't want it to get cold. The coach was going uphill again but this time the road that left Jaroka was to pass through a tunnel that pierced the belly of the mountain and allowed for motorists to drive through the mountainous area, rather than around it. On the other side lay the capital of Rivine and thereafter a long stretch to the Arc Vale-Rivine border. They were almost there.

\---

NOW...

Upon crossing the border between Rivine and Arc Vale, Lisa got out her energy drink which was far from chilled. The scent of the energy drink spread through the bus. Shortly after that Scotty received a text. Though he was practically asleep, the vibration startled him. He unlocked the phone;

Tell her to leave me some of her drink man. I'd loooove to taste it. Haha!

It was Kyle. And this time Scotty did smile. For some reason his humour did amuse him. Lisa saw his reaction to the message and looked at him suspiciously.

"What is it?" She asked inquisitively.

"Oh, nothing. You've finally got around to having that drink then huh?"

"Yeah, I figured it would be best not to offend you. I can leave you some if you like."

"No but I'm pretty sure there's someone on the bus that might want some after you spread its aroma like that." Scotty smiled cheekily he had Kyle at the back of his mind. No sooner had he said that his phone vibrated again.

I heard that! Give her your phone. Or better yet give her my line and get hers.

He ignored Kyle's request. By the time he looked up at her she was holding her phone in her hand about to answer a call.

"Hello." She said gently. Although Scotty couldn't hear what was being said on the other side, her facial expression wasn't very comforting.

"Hi Lisa, it's Haley."

"I know sweetie, what's up?"

"I'm not sure if you're back in Valeria but the dates for the new period have been moved up a couple of weeks. You may want to keep that in mind."

"Thanks. I'll do that. I'm just arriving now. Let's catch up real nicely later okay.?"

"Okay, later then."

Haley and Lisa were both students at the Pultrax University in Pultrax. The area
of Arc Vale was considerably more peaceful than Valeria and Grayd but Arc Vale was too small for anyone to find a hide out. The safest place for anyone looking to hide was away from Arc Vale and though things seemed normal for the Pharoahtics, the locals could feel the stiffness in the air. The energy in Arc Vale was far from welcoming. The two dominant families were facing off and the whole district was feeling the pressure,

"I'm sorry, that was a friend of mine. You were saying something?" Lisa turned to Scotty remembering the expression on his face before she answered the call from Haley.

"Oh, well. We're going to be here in Valeria for a few days. Maybe we can meet up sometime, my friends would like to spend time with your friends when time allows." Scotty was trying his hardest to find the right words to say. He really wasn't that good at making new friends. Lisa saw his efforts and smiled.

"Well I'm not sure how much longer I'll be in Valeria for but I'm sure we can make a plan. I can get your contact though." She stared into his eyes intriguingly. This came as a strange thing to Scotty, he was doing this for Kyle. He called out the number to use (which unsurprisingly was Kyle's).

"You can reach me on that line."

Lisa looked at him suspiciously.

"You know for a secretive guy, it's strange how being professional makes you look like a liar. Why do I have a hunch this isn't your actual line?" Her smile was contagious and soon Scotty smiled back.

"Okay fine, you caught me. It's Kyle's...he's really attracted to you."

"Oh, you do realize that it's you that I'm attracted to, right?" Her smile vanished.

"Alright, alright. Maybe you can save that line and have one of your friends call
him."

She smiled again.

"Yes. That sounds like something I can agree to do. And how do I get in touch with you?"

"I'll be at the Skuller tomorrow, perhaps you can come through."

Scotty was trying to ignore the fact that Kyle had been texting him the entire time but now he was calling. Lisa looked at the phone's screen and laughed gently.

"Well, aren't you going to answer it?"

"No! He's being a nuisance." Lisa giggled. She couldn't resist the urge to look back and see what Kyle was up to. Their eyes collided and Kyle was smiling from ear to ear. Lisa waved goofily and Kyle waved back. Brianna wasn't interested in what was happening, Kyle had been keeping her updated of everything he was doing on the phone with Scotty.

"Damn Kyle, does that look like a girl you can handle, like seriously, stop embarrassing yourself dude." Brianna was agitated. Lisa turned around and continued her conversation with Scotty. Kyle turned to face Brianna.

"You know what Bree, it doesn't help to act like you're not in love with me for once. We both know it'll never happen." A grin smeared across Kyle's face knowing well he had provoked Brianna. The punch to his rib cage was harsh enough a response to shut him up. He jerked suddenly holding the affected area. He knew that he hadn't just provoked her but had insulted her; he felt guilty.

The remainder of the journey was silent between the two. She couldn't handle Kyle's annoying presence and she knew that if she tolerated any more it there would be serious trouble. Lisa hadn't managed to get a hold of Scotty's number, but she was glad that he invited her to the Skuller. As the coach finally came to a halt, she called her older sister. Soon everyone was in the station walking
towards the exit. Lisa's vehicle was waiting outside.

"Thanks for keeping me company and for holding onto my ticket. I may come over tomorrow but I'd prefer if we kept in touch. You know...over phone"

"You're welcome. I'm counting on seeing you at the Skuller.... or better yet, at the Haven. You've got Kyle's line."

"And you've got mine sir...remember that." Lisa blushed as she entered the dark blue vehicle. The engine purred as she was driven away. The driver pressed a few buttons to call Arina from the vehicle's in-built phone; she answered.

"Yes."

"I have picked Miss Lisa up. We're on our way. The others are at the station."

"What others?" Spoke Lisa; she was concerned for Scotty.

"Never mind Lisa, they were just being used to help you look regular. I hope you didn't do anything stupid." Arina's voice was and the blunt tone wasn't easy to avoid.

"No." Lisa tried her best to avoid the awkwardness Arina's question aroused. She knew well and good that she shouldn't have given Scotty her number but the hope of seeing him again made the action seem alright.

"I hope so sis, they're bigger things going on and you don't want to get yourself involved."

"I won't. Anyway, I'll see you soon. You can cut the call."

"I'll see you soon, drive safe." Arina cut the call. Meanwhile back at the station the trio were taking in the new location as they waited for Brant to send a ride to pick them up from the station.

"We've made it guys." Scotty was surprisingly positive.

"Well aren't you sparky." Brianna replied. The tension from Kyle's provocation still affecting her.
"What did Kyle do?"

"Ah come on she's probably just trying to piss one of us off. You're right Scott, we have made it and damn it feels good." Kyle spoke overconfidently.

Brianna's look was dark and Scotty was now concerned.

"What happened Bree?" Asked Scotty.

"It's nothing Scott, it's not like Kyle can grow up in the space of a few hours on a bus now can he?" She smiled sarcastically.

"No he can't. Let's enjoy ourselves guys we only have a few hours to get this right."

"Wait, why are we walking to the station haven't you called Brant?" Kyle knew he was wrong but he couldn't help that maybe Scotty was being a little too conservative by making them walk to the station.

"I'll call her at the Hotel. It's not like they don't know we're arriving today."

"Nope, I'm not walking anywhere Scott. I refuse!." Kyle was being dramatic but this time Brianna saw that he was right in doing so.

"I'm with Kyle." She said. The two stood behind their luggage which was starting to feel heavier.

"You two are unbelievable, we're already here aren't we?"

Scotty started walking back with the intention to argue out his point painted on his face but was stopped in his tracks when Brant's name appeared on his phone's screen as she called.

"Hello Brant." His face now somewhat expressing disappointment; he had already lost the argument.

"Hello Essay! I'm sure you're already in Valeria by now yes?"

"Afternoon Brant, yes we are."

"Well, calling would've helped. I'm sending your ride to your current location, which is?"

"We're at the main bus station, we just arrived."
"Alright, I'll be over at the Luxor soon after you arrive. Your rooms are ready and waiting, just tell them your name at the front desk and your good."

"Thank you, Brant."

"Sure thing Scotty. Soon then." Brant cut the call.

"So, what did she say?" Kyle asked.

"A ride is on the way." Scotty tried to hide the slight embarrassment in his voice.

"Aha! See! Yet you wanted to be boarding buses. You should be thanking me Scotty."

Scotty was in no mood for another argument with Kyle.

"You're welcome." He pulled out his phone and started messaging Annabel. It wasn't long before the navy-blue SUV stopped where the trio stood. The front window rolled down and the man in the passenger seat spoke;

"Pharoahtics?"

"That's us." Replied Kyle.

"We're here to get you to the Luxor. Courtesy of Miss Vorkandji."

"Who?" Kyle had no clue of whom the men spoke of.

"Brant, you dumb ass." Brianna was eager get to the hotel.

"Yes, Miss Brant Vorkandji. I can help with the luggage you may enter the vehicle."

"No we got it." Brianna opened the rear passenger door and ushered Scotty and Kyle in. Brianna sighed as she sunk back into the luxurious leather seats. Scotty was still on his phone smiling to himself as he and Annabel exchanged messages. The trip to the Luxor was so much more enjoyable because of the vehicle's air conditioning.

"This is nice, I can get used to this." Commented Kyle.

"Oh yeah, if only it weren't so damn expensive." Brianna responded coyly.

"Oh come on, enjoy the moment for once will you?"
"Shut up Fleezy! Why can't you be like Scotty for once?"

"Huh?" Scotty looked at Brianna after hearing his name.

"How's Annabel?" Teased Brianna.

"That's not what you said Queen." Scotty didn't like it when Brianna teased him.

"Exactly Bree." Kyle decided to side with Scotty seeing as he had no constructive response to Brianna's rhetorical question.

"Well if you must know, I was telling Kyle to be more like you sometimes."

"Oh. Be more like me Kyle, you might just finally woo her." Scotty teased Kyle. He always tried his luck with Brianna. It was almost as though the attempts were the only way for him to keep his mind off the absence of female companionship that could tolerate his in-your-face flattery. It had practically become a game that Brianna always won.

"Do I look like I want to be a depressed sadist with a girl so strange not even her own family gets her?" Kyle was unimpressed by Scotty's comment but it seemed as though the ride would seem more interesting when all three were actually involving themselves. Scotty smiled.

"Yet her sister happens to be the love of your life. Or rather the only other female that won't tolerate your rubbish." Scotty pulled out his earphones and plugged them into the phone.

"Let me know when we're there." He said as he pushed the rubber pieces into his ears. The rest of the journey was filled with music for Scotty as Brianna and Kyle had what was obviously a series of arguments that always seemed to be won by Brianna. Every time Kyle looked at Scotty with a facial expression clearly trying to beckon Scotty to bail him from Brianna's victorious clasp he shook his head and smiled to himself. Annabel had been messaging Scotty and they had agreed to have a good long chat once he was at the hotel. It came as a surprise
however, when he received a message from an encrypted number.

I've been watching you Scotty a.k.a Essay. Welcome to Arc Vale. I will be in touch soon.

His face was pale but this wasn't the first time he had received a dodgy message on his phone (last time it was a prank). He brushed it aside and soon they were at the hotel. They approached the front desk and behind it stood two well presented ladies. Kyle's face immediately lit up. He was first to speak.

"Reservation for the Pharoahtics please." He said with an emphatically cheesy smile smeared across his face.

"Welcome to the Luxor Pharoahtics, we have been expecting you. Your rooms are on the fourth floor. Will you have bands or cards for access?"

"Oh, fancy. We'll have cards right guys?" He turned to Brianna and Scott. Both seemed to be unbothered.

"Yeah sure." Brianna answered dully.

"And you Scott?"

"Yeah Yeah..."

He turned back to the lady.

"Cards it'll be Helena." He couldn't resist the urge to direct his attention to her hazel eyes; she looked down shyly.

"That is fine. Your stay for two nights is paid for. If you need anything, just call."

"Anything?" Kyle asked flirtatiously.

"Yes sir. You will have your response promptly."

"Right."

She handed them the cards to their rooms. Each with the room number
embedded on the front.

"Enjoy your stay."

Her smile was dashing and Kyle was drawn to her for a few moments before Scotty pulled him back.

"You can remain if you want to, we need to go."

"Relax grumpy." He shrugged and turned back to Helena.

"I'll take those but I look forward to seeing you more."

She smiled politely.

"I'm sure you will." Her compatriot was trying to hold in her smile; Helena was always being hit on by male guests, such reactions had almost become a norm. Kyle winked at her, turned and headed to the elevators across the room looking back with a smile as he did so. She shook her head gently.

THEN...

By the time it was 2:15am everyone agreed that maybe it was best to call it a night.

"I can drop you all off," offered Brant. She was the only one there with a vehicle and luckily enough she knew where everyone was located.

"Sounds good to me," Replied Queen Lord.

The four all started heading off the roof top and said goodbye to the waiters. Queen Lord dropped off her glass on the counter.

"Thanks for the company, I didn't quite catch your name."

"My name is Irene, the pleasure was all mine." Queen Lord and her compatriots climbed into the elevator as the lights on the roof top were turned off. The waiters were standing near the elevator waiting for the elevator to come back up.

"I think the Pharoahtics are pretty cool, I might take some time to listen to their beats," Said one of the waiters.

"Meh, if you ask me they're just a one hit wonder kind of crew. Here today, gone tomorrow. Watch my words, they ain't going nowhere." Said another.
"I don't know about them career wise but they're good people and I think they'll probably do just fine whatever they decide to do." Irene's comment made the previous waiters' comments seem a little uncalled for. Besides, back home they were more than just your regular rap crew. The elevator soon returned and in good time too, the group of waiters selected to serve the roof top weren't exactly familiar with one another. The ride down was silent.... Brant pulled up to the Luxor, this was Fleezy and Queen Lord's hotel of residence.

"Thanks a mill Brant, really appreciate the hospitality," Said Queen Lord.

"Don't mention it. Keep in touch and all the best with your trip."

"Sure thing." Arina got out of the car to escort Fleezy up to the

entrance.

"I had a good time tonight Fleezy." Arina was uncharacteristically shy as she and Fleezy walked towards the hotel entrance.

"I did too, it's a shame you're too egotistic to come up for a night cap." Fleezy was still hoping to get lucky. Arina let out a slight giggle that made it obvious that he wasn't going to get any luckier.

"Nice try playboy but on a serious note though, thank you for the wonderful evening. You've made my night."

"Well, you're welcome." As they approached the entrance Queen Lord caught up to them,

"Good night Arina." She said with a smile on her face. Queen Lord was hoping to help Fleezy get lucky. She would hold it against him for a life time that she played the perfect wingman.

"Fleezy, you should be heading up now..." Arina was clearly uncomfortable with the tension between them and she was failing to hide it. Her breathing suddenly quickened as she felt the sensation to linger a little longer. He stepped in a little closer, his breathing becoming heavier with the thought of what was happening.

"Yeah, I really should." He never moved an inch; their eyes were locked and there was a passion in their eyes that burnt at the thought of how they had managed to bond so easily that night. The connection was mutual and they were locked in the moment, waiting for something to happen. Fleezy was usually confident at times like this but he found himself battling with his own thoughts. He was dying to feel her skin and just let go of the blood boiling urge he was feeling within but she had made it clear she wasn't up for that.

"Maybe I should be going now." He said, but the expression on his face didn't change. He was still locked in her gaze.

"Maybe you're right." She licked her lips and blinked slowly as she showed no sign of giving into the urge that was holding her back. Fleezy bent his neck as he drew his face closer to hers. The body heat radiating off him and sumptuously rubbing onto her.

"You don't wanna leave and I don't want you to go."

She nodded submissively, her eyes watering with the thought of his body close to hers. His posture eased and he shuffled his feet closer to hers, he wasn't holding back what his intentions were and she wasn't resisting his advances. His head bent so close to hers that she could feel his breath hit her face. He could hear her breathing intensify and couldn't help but notice that she had goosebumps running from her shoulders down to her elbows.

"Fleezy," She gently said as his lips brushed against hers. He didn't respond. He leaned in further and the softness of her lips rubbed against his. She never responded but she never resisted either. As he leaned in further and parted his lips to part hers, his arm grabbed her waste. He could feel her body weaken
he pulled her closer. Suddenly the moment was ruined by a hooting car in the parking lot, it was Brant. Arina giggled at the stupendous timing of her compatriot.

"I guess this is goodnight," She said. Fleezy had his eyes closed, not even trying to hide his annoyance with Brant's hooter.

"I guess so too...there's a couple of hours between now and sunrise and my room isn't so far." A cheeky smile lit his eyes up.

"Fleezy, this isn't the way I want you to remember me."

"And how exactly is that?" Brant hooted again, she was getting impatient.

"I'm not a one-night stand girl."

Fleezy opened his eyes wide with surprise.

"You think I spent all that time getting to know you as a one-night stand girl?" Arina remained silent as she didn't know how to answer Fleezy's question. Brant turned her car engine on signaling that she wasn't going to wait any longer.

"Look, if you're really interested in getting to know me, keep in touch and next time we're in the same city we'll see how things unfold. Goodnight playboy." Arina leaned in for a hug and Fleezy held her tight.

"Goodnight Arina." As she walked away Fleezy brushed his hand through his hair and sighed emphatically. Wow, what a girl, he thought to himself as he saw her get into Brant's car and drive off. He turned round and walked into the hotel's entrance. As he walked in his eyes were greeted with a mocking face from Queen Lord.

"Well, that was intense." She said, barely holding back some laughter.

"Shut up Queen." He said as he walked side by side with her into the elevator.

"Don't you just hate it when that happens. Talk about a one-night stand gone bad."
"I didn't consider it that way."

"You never do Fleez, not until you get them into your bed."

"Well, she was different...she said no but she genuinely wanted to just talk to me."

"Maybe you should actually try and stay in touch Fleez. She looks like she's a good person." The elevator stopped and they exited it. They walked down the corridor until Queen Lord reached her room door,

"Wanna come in?" She asked mockingly.

"I need some company." She continued as she laughed by herself as she opened the room door and entered her room.

"Good night Fleezy."

"Good night Queen." Fleezy walked on to his door.

He never expected to get lucky with Queen Lord. She would never give it up for practically anything. After entering her room, she rested her head against the door and sighed to herself. She really did need some company. Despite everything that she put out on display (the tough act and the hardcore lyrics), she was lonely and if it wasn't for her crew-mates she'd probably had been depressed. She threw herself on her bed and shut her eyes. After a couple of minutes, she opened her eyes and looked at her phone. She found a missed call

from Essay. This worried her very much. She was expecting a call but what she noticed was that the call was almost an hour ago and Essay still hadn't showed up at the hotel. She wasn't sure whether to call him back or text but she had a feeling that silence would probably serve the best cause. She decided to call Fleezy.

"Yo," He answered after two missed calls.

"Have you heard anything from Essay?" She too was sounding sleepy but more worried than anything.

"Nah... what's up?"
"I found a missed call from him."

"And... have you tried to call him back?"

"No, I think it's best that I keep quiet, maybe the time he called was the only time he could talk."

"Let's see what the morning brings alright?"

"Alright."

"Take it easy Queen, everything will be alright."

NOW...

Scotty was anxious about what lay ahead. He and Jordi were being driven by her bodyguards and though it was nice to have an easy way to get to the place he was told to be, he still had a gut feeling that things weren't alright.

"You think I'm making the right move?"

"Not only are you being rhetorical but you're also being skeptical mister. Look I've been in Arc Vale for a while and most of the time, if you're really meant to meet your worst fate then you meet it. No need for a stalker making anonymous phone calls."

Scotty tried his best to fake a smile. Her words were encouraging but then again, she'd probably never been in a situation anything like the one he was in now.

"Yeah well, thanks."

"Ease up mister. Maybe if you let me know who you were talking to, I could help...maybe"

"If I knew, I think I would have. I hate the suspense just as much as I hate the fact that I'm dragging you into all of this. Fact is Jordi, this is not my comfort zone. At all!"

"I know but you know what, I think you'll be alright."

They continued talking about random things that kept the negativity away from their conversation but that was just a
simple distraction for Scotty; he knew that this wasn't just another trip. As Jordi explained why she hates using air travel Scotty's phone vibrated. He looked at the screen to see a message notification. There were only four people that would be trying to reach him at this time. He unlocked the phone after excusing himself; it was Annabel.

Hey sweetie, hope you had a great time tonight. You're probably asleep by now but I miss you and I'm looking forward to seeing you soon. Get in touch soon okay.

"What's up?" Jordi was intrigued by the facial expression on his face.

"Never mind."

"You bet your ass I will. Come on, you are smiling and frowning at the same time."

"Really? Well ignore it. It's best I just focus on what lays ahead."

"Okay mister."

The rest of the journey was a light conversation accompanied with gentle music being played by Jordi. She tried her best to lighten him up but it always seemed like a lost cause. Scotty was worried about his meeting and despite her best efforts Jordi couldn't do anything to really change his aura. Soon the vehicle pulled into Molepa Bay. The blue lights that lit up the pier were dim but bright enough to be seen from the entrance.

"I don't see anyone." Jordi said observantly.

"Me neither. I'm sure they're close by."

"Did they mention anything about how to meet up and the likes?"

"No but I'll have to be where the pier starts and wait from there. Shady right?"

"Kind of but then again, this is Arc Vale." Scotty smiled hopefully. Jordi seemed so sure that nothing terrible was going to happen that he started to think it too.

"Well, I have to go. Thank you."

"No problem mister, I just wish we had more time and better circumstances, you know?"

"Yeah but I'm sure this isn't the last time we'll meet up."

"Of course not, I'm sure you've got a gig soon and if you get out on the stack,

I'll read it. I might even steal your number from Brant." She winked at him and leaned in for a hug. The awkwardness seemed to pile up for Scotty when he had to respond. He hugged her back.

"Alright lady, I salute you." He opened the door and she smiled as he stepped outside the vehicle.

"Irom, escort him to the pier please." She instructed one of her bodyguards.

"Yes, m' am." He got out of the passenger seat and walked with Scotty down to the pier.

"We need to keep an eye on him Lodreba. I want to know who he's meeting with and where they're taking him."

"I understand m' am but that won't be easy we're just the two of us right now and we need to get you home."

"Then make sure you tell Oric when we're back okay?"

"Yes m' am."

Irom was a large man and though he looked mean and tough he still maintained a sharp look about him. The walk to the pier was silent and slow. The air was cool and breeze coming in from the dam was chilly but Scotty couldn't even feel it he was way too tense for that to affect him.

"Look kid, what you're getting yourself in doesn't look safe. Kids like you don't belong here."

Scotty didn't know what to respond. The sound of Irom's voice was just as shocking as the revelation that he gave him.

"Here, I hope you know how to handle one of these."
Scotty looked at Irom, he was holding a gun and was handing it to him.

"I really don't think I need one."

"I think you do kid. If you're by the pier you ain't staying in Valeria tonight and if you're going to Grayd, you'll definitely need it."

"Why are you helping me?"

"Because you're a good kid and you're a good artist too. Take it. If you don't need to use it, toss it when you're in the clear."

Scotty was hesitant. His mind was full of questions but Irom's voice assured him that this was the best option. He took the gun and held it in his hand.

"Hide it, I don't think they'll know you have that. You better know how to use it."

"I don't."

"There's a clip that must be moved right above where your index finger will be once you hold the handle. That's the safety. After that, aim, breath, fire and don't let go of it under any circumstance. You got it?"

"I got it."

"Good. Well, later kid. Don't shoot yourself."

Scotty smiled, Irom turned around to go back to the vehicle where Jordi was. The silence was deafening. Scotty was nervous and after the vehicle pulled away, he knew that from that point on, he was alone. He pulled out his phone as he waited for something to happen. His nerves drove him to calling Queen Lord, maybe they were still waiting for him at the Haven but there was no response from her. Kyle's phone was always off so that was always going to be a lost cause. He could feel the fear of being so vulnerable creeping in; the cold air was no help either. He placed his phone back in his jacket's pocket and zipped it up. Now was no time to drop and break his phone. He started wondering if this was just
another prank; one that had him so convinced that he took himself so far from his friends that even his life was endangered. He speculated and speculated. He reached for the gun to see if the safety was on or not, perhaps walking back to the nearest place where he could find a cab or a bus would be best. He could just toss the gun in a bin somewhere once he reached a comfortable place. His right hand reached for the gun that he wedged behind him in between his trousers and his tucked-in tshirt, the metallic object was cold and heavy. He pulled it out and started to examine it whilst making sure he kept it out of the light. He felt the are above the handle and sure enough the safety clip was down; it was on. He looked around before placing the gun back where he got it from. Despite being alone the gun gave him a sense of courage and safety but it also plunged his mind into an array of scenarios that could arise if things really were to go wrong. He exhaled as he folded his arms in expectation of something to happen. He pulled out his phone again to check the time; it was 2:20am. It was going to be daytime soon and now he was getting very skeptical of what was going on.

"I'll give it to 2:30 and I'm out of here." He whispered to himself, The fatigue was beginning to take over his fear; all he wanted was to be back at the Luxor in his blankets. He begun to take steps to and fro; the countdown was on. Just as he started to enjoy the thought of getting out of this awkward situation, the sound of boat engine broke the silence behind him; his heart beat quickened and his hopes of getting back to the Luxor sank. His phone vibrated and he answered as quickly as he could.

"Mr. Accena, your ride approaches you will be picked up at the edge of the pier. Don't keep the boat waiting." The man hung up right after giving him the instructions. Scotty turned round and sure enough the boat's lights broke the darkness that covered the dam's area. He walked to the edge of pier and though
the sound was audible his ears seemed plugged; hollow-like. His heart raced and all that he was hoping for now seemed so far. The thought of running seemed justifiable but there was a small voice deep down that encouraged him to keep walking. The voice kept telling him that if anything is supposed to happen then it will happen. It reminded him that everything that was going on was because he had allowed it to. He kept walking and soon the small voice had taken over all the speculation that he had. He was where he was and nothing was going to change that. His resaons had brought him this far and they were valid enough to keep him going; he continued his walk to the edge of the pier. He reached the end of the pier and waited for the boat to come close enough for him to get it in. The centre console boat appraoched the pier and slowed down as it floated closer and closer to the pier's edge.

"Hop in sir." Said one of the men as it was close enough for Scotty to jump in. He did so and was offered a seat. The man that instructed him to jump in stood next to the sailor and clutched the console's frame. They were off and Scotty didn't even know what to do other than to keep quiet. He wished he knew how to navigate, he already had a good idea of Arc Vale's general points; if he could just figure which direction they were headed, he could know what city they were headed for. His efforts to guess were in vain. The only thing now was to keep track of time.

\---

THEN...

She opened her eyes and snapped out of the nostalgic trance. The train chugged along and she would stare out the windows as it passed through a couple of landscapes. Soon the train had arrived at the Molepa dam that received water from the three rivers and flowed into the Hortenka sea. There was a tunnel
there that passed under the Molepa dam. She could feel the train tilt slightly as it descended towards the entry of the tunnel. This was always her favourite part of the ride. She always imagined that as she passed under the water there'd be a school of fish somewhere close by hearing the train push on. The biggest worry that she ever had was that there'd be a train crash. The Molepa dam had an intersecting tunnel that ran under it. Trains going and coming from Pultrax to Hardolt also passed under the damn. The timing of each train had to be very specific and had to always be accurate. In the years since its construction there had never been a train accident in the tunnel and for her safety as well as others, Irene always hoped it would remain that way. The intersection was always interesting to see, she always hoped that someday she would see another train. Even though that meant that an accident was imminent or just evaded, the thought always got her a little excited inside. Soon the train was back in the tunnel and passed the intersection, the disposable phone she had been given rang. It was the same caller that she had been communicating with for the past two days. She answered the call and placed the phone on her right ear.

"You were successful with your operation. From now on you are under the security of the Haven's lions den. Do not dispose of this communication device nor destroy it. The only number you call is the one saved. The only number you answer a call from is the one saved. Do not make the mistake of letting this information out to anyone else. Have a good journey Irene." The call cut again.

She wasn't sure that she liked the way she had no say in some of the conditions that were imposed on her but no thing seemed to be going wrong, so she decided to just leave the worries for another day. The journey took exactly
twenty eight minutes. As she got off the train in Grayd, she was immediately greeted with a thick damp oily smell. The train station wasn't well kept and the lights flickered. It wasn't the main station but it was the one closest to her home. She could hear the bells of the docks sounding in the not so distant distance. She was always told that the docks are no place for a lady after sunset, so when she got off the train on her late nights she always kept her eyes forward or down and away from stirring away to the docks. Her step was neither slow nor quick, it was steady. After the day's events she arrived with a nervous tension in her belly and was really looking forward to getting home and relaxing. It was a ten-minute walk from the station to her apartment but this time it felt like it was taking ages for her to reach. She looked at her phone, it was 3:22 am and she knew she had at least another eight minutes to get to her apartment. As she walked, she was trying her best not to hurry but the nervous tension was rising and she could feel that there was something wrong. She could feel it in the air. As she left the station area and passed a couple of grocery stores, she heard what she thought were a couple of gunshots. She froze. Failing to take another step for she knew that if she did, she might be walking into a street gun fight (and you don't want to be doing that if you don't have a gun or an alliance). As she stood there wondering what to do, a car screeched into the main road that divided the dock area and the string of grocery shops she was passing. The headlights were a sharp white with blue streaks, she could immediately tell that it was an expensive car that was leaving what she was sure to be the same place the gunshots came from. The vehicle was a good four hundred meters away and was accelerating, the engine creating a thunderous sound as it sped up. She was petrified but she knew that if she didn't act now, she was going to be seen by
whoever was fleeing the scene. She ran back the direction she came so that she could hide behind the wall of the first shop she passed a few moments prior to the gunshots. She turned a sharp left and waited for the powerful vehicle to pass by. Her heart raced as she kept a keen ear to ensure that the engine kept producing the same sound and didn't slow down. A few seconds later and the car passed her by. She kept a fixed eye on it to make sure that she wasn't spotted, the car continued speeding down the road without any signs of slowing down. It was then that she realized that she knew that vehicle. She had seen it before but she didn't know where and when. The thought provoked her immensely. She hesitated to come out of her hiding place in fear that she was going to be seen by someone else. After waiting a couple of minutes, she decided to continue her journey back home. This time she wasn't holding back, her legs were carrying her as fast as she could. Looking only towards the point she would turn into the road that lead to the turn that eventually lead her to her apartment, she ran, and she ran, and she ran. She never thought of stopping even when a dog near the docks was barking rampantly. She eventually made the first turn and then stopped suddenly. There was a car parked in the street with its fog lights still on. She was so sure she was about to get

away scotch free but there it was and chances are the people in the car had already seen her. They had probably seen the whole thing. For a second, she was completely stuck for choices, she knew better than to turn and run because that would cause even more suspicion. All she could do was continue walking towards the car slowly. She wanted to cross the road and walk on the side walk closest to the left turn that was just meters after the point the car was parked and even that would have attracted too much unwanted attention, so she just
continued walking. Her headsets were dangling over her ears and she could hear the song playing, it was a classic.

"Please don't let me die listening to this song," she thought to herself. She was so sure that there was trouble waiting for her that she didn't notice the open door on the other side of the road. As she passed the building closest to her apartment she kept darting her eyes to and fro but there was no one in sight. She was hesitant as she approached a dimly lit door that was open enough for her to hear people speaking.

"You oversaw the whole transaction and now two of our guys are either dead or dying," shouted one of the voices.

"Well, why don't we go find out? It's not like there's

anyone there and besides, it'll be your head on the stick if it reaches the boss."

"I can't believe you even have the balls to bring up who's got immunity and who doesn't. Don't tempt me boy!" There was a moment of silence, Irene walked by silently and quickly across the road.

"There's someone outside!"

\---

NOW...

The two men ran outside quickly to see who they heard but Irene had already disappeared from their sight. They remained staring at each other angrily.

Irene approached her apartment door and looked back to see if she was followed but luckily enough, she hadn't. Her hands were shaking, and she knew that what she had just witnessed and escaped was too close a call. Whatever happened a few moments ago was a warning that she was working too late for
these times in Arc Vale. The response from whoever she overheard was enough proof that what was happening that night was no small thing that could be brushed aside. She pulled her key out of her bag, unlocked the apartment door, locked it behind her and rushed to talk to Haley who she found awake, texting.

"I see you survived." Said Haley jokingly.

"You should've seen it, it was bad. I nearly got spotted."

"Good thing you didn't. It's been a while there were gun shots in Arc Vale, I'm thinking of moving to Pultrax."

"Aren't you in school there?"

"Yeah, as weird as it may be I'd rather be alive there and suffer too much attention than dead here. Any day!"

"Lucky you, I'm stuck here till who-knows-when."

"Well, you can always come with. There's like a bunch of places you could work and you could work on your papers too. Plus, we could rent a place together, I can ask my dad to put in extra cash for you whilst you look for work. It's perfect." Her eyes were lit and full of excitement but Irene knew it wasn't that easy. She faked a smile, it was obvious Haley had no idea what was going on. Talking to her was only going to cloud her judgement; the cloning device was still in her possession and whatever her role was in the whole operation, it never felt good at all. She had to remain focused on getting it done and avoiding unnecessary trouble.

"Yeah well, just keep me posted. I don't want to run away from work, it'll look bad on my record."

"Sure. I left something to eat in the fridge for you. It's cold by now."

"Thanks." Irene dragged herself downstairs to look in the fridge. Her mind wondered and she knew that whatever was going on was much bigger than
what she thought. Meanwhile, as Irene ate her dinner Greg and Kew were busy communicating through the comms with the other soldiers who just realized that Scotty had disappeared from Valeria.

"There was some activity this side; a few gun shots fired but nobody knows what's going on right now." Greg's voice was sharp but confident.

"Explain what happened." Said Piettro.

"Not so long ago right about when Irene's train arrived at the station, there was some noise coming in from the harbor. Gunshots were fired, as mentioned earlier and I'm pretty sure the vehicle that drove away last was a V12, the first sounded like a mini truck but it's hard to tell." Greg kept his eyes fixed on the screen that displayed movements outside Irene's apartment.

"And what of Irene? Did she make it there okay?"

"Yeah she's fine but she arrived and entered in a hurry. No surprise there."

"Okay good. Well you keep a sharp eye on her. She's very much involved with what's going on. Scotty has gone AWL and it's possible he's headed that side. We'll update you soon. As for now Jorex, can you please tap into one; either Kyle or Brianna's phone. We're not going to stay here waiting for these two to wake up."

"Got it. By the way you may want to consider placing some cameras in the hotel outside their hotel rooms. Just in case their phones go off."

"Alright." As soon as Jorex got off the comms. Piettro and the five other soldiers huddled together outside a nightclub that had the Luxor in close view.

"Hena, Paula and Presto; good job on keeping Irene within sights we're working around the clock, so your heads-up comes from Greg and Kew in Grayd. Tarent and Lex we messed up big! Scotty has disappeared and we're here guarding two
people that might have already been removed from the equation. All we know for now is that if those two don't know what's going on then chances are, they'll start turning stones to find out. That could work in our favor. We need to keep the pair under heavy surveillance. So first things first you three can go back to the motel at the Haven and catch up on some rest. We're going to put it in some cameras. The six split up.

Oric had gotten word of what happened in Grayd and was furious with the news.

"What do you mean there's a mole?" Oric's voice trembled.

"Sir, we're on our way back with Pret and Fenzo but what we found here was no pleasant site. You were right, goods have been diverted to the south port on practically every shipment. All we found are the boxes and other casing material, the goods are gone. We had a little trouble, but it was nothing we couldn't handle. Axel's boys got away, but we got one before we left. It's possible there's going to be trouble in the morning. You should probably prepare for that."

"Alright, let me know when you touch base. Be hasty there's no sleep tonight." Just as Oric cut the call Jordi came through the front door. Oric wasn't pleased.

"Where were you? And don't make me ask your bodyguards for the truth." She could tell this was no time for secrecy. Something was wrong and it was written all over Oric's face.

"I went with one of the artists to the pier, I left him there. What's wrong?"

"What do you mean you left him there? You killed him?"

"No! He said he had a meeting with someone and that he couldn't tell me. I figured it had something to do with you." Jordi could feel the tension rise between her and Oric but it wasn't her that he was mad at it was how the news
she came with tied into whatever was going on.

"What's going on Oric?"

"We might be at war with you know who. That boy you were with, he had nothing to do us. You might have just given them exactly what they wanted. You need to keep in better touch Jo. Tell me about him and what happened."

"Alright let me go grab my phone first, I need to make sure Arina's alright." Jordi left the house and hurried to hers. Oric followed and called out to Irom and Lodreba; they approached him.

"What happened and why is Jo only coming home now?"

They explained the events of the night, Irom left out the fact that he gave Scotty his gun, he had just realized how silly that move was now that he was seeing things from Oric's point of view.

"Your duty is to keep her safe. Isn't it obvious that taking her to the pier at three in the morning to drop off some guy is a strange thing? And what's worse you do it without telling me. Did he say what he was doing there or where he was going?"

"No sir." Responded Lodreba.

"What are you, idiots? So we're now running a taxi company for little kids?"

"No, sir." Responded Lodreba again.

"No we're not. There's a storm coming and what you did tonight might get you fired, pray it doesn't." He dismissed them and returned into the house. His father came downstairs,

"What was that all about?" He asked agitatedly

"Jordi and her random trips. There's been activity down in Grayd and we've found out about the perpetrators; it was the Quantus."

"I'm not surprised. Times are hard son. Costs are high and the recent shipment
tariffs aren't helping either. They've heightened security and it's a new guy overseeing everything, he's still fighting for recognition, the fool!"

"Can't you talk to some of your friends, if things go well tonight, we'll need to have a counter plan to ease things up on both sides."

"I can but not tonight. I'll need to make calls tomorrow and arrange for meetings. You'll need to tag along;"

"Alright. You'll soon have to leave, I'm renovating the place but you can stay at the other place in Falls View."

"Alright. You remind me of your mother; always worrying about appearance."

Oric gave less than a halfhearted laugh.

"Well, it's not particularly for décor but it will look good and you'll see it when you return. Just don't come back with some bimbo." The pair laughed loudly just as Jordi returned to the house.

"Look at you two. Laughing like a war isn't about to happen. I've got word about what happened in Grayd. There were gunshots and FYI, I have a location for at least one of the men that got away. An address too but it will cost you."

"Great! We'll get to that but first tell me about that stranger."

Jordi frowned as she responded to Oric;

"He's not a stranger he's a good artist; musician actually. His name is Scotty Accena a.k.a Essay and he was here to perform with his friends. He needed a ride to the pier, but he couldn't tell me why."

"And you couldn't think to ask or at least tell me? It's late Jordi and you of all people know that times are never all that safe for a Fasceda at night."

"I went out for the concert!" She snapped.

"And you were supposed to return. You could've brought him home to pass time from here. Now we don't know what he's doing and what his involvement with Quantus is. You better hope that's the last I hear of him. Who were they
dealing with for the concert?"

"Brant! You can get more details from her if you like but for anything else from me, you have to pay me at least 150Narks."

Rudolf smiled.

"So opportunistic but as nice as that is to see, don't you ever do that again Jay. We already have enough stress. You go sleep now; Oric's got a long night but if you get in touch with Scotty, you tell him straight away okay? We'll deal with your little money dilema later"

"Yes dad."

"Good girl." Jordi turned sulkily and went to her house.

"She's coming with you, I can't keep her around."

"Good idea, she can go to school from there. When are you planning on getting rid of us?"

Oric smiled.

"As soon as possible. I must go now...Gromla and the guys will be at the docks soon."

"Okay, go with Irom. I'll be here doing some work with Lodreba, you can send him up." Oric nodded and left. He called out to Jordi's bodyguards and sent Lodreba to go and tend to his father's need. He left the compound with Irom in the passenger's seat. The drive to the docks was long and silent. Oric couldn't be bothered to think of a topic to start a conversation as he drove through the winding streets of Valeria. The air was intense and the night dark. The events of the night were creeping into the minds of everyone that knew about them. Oric's mind was focused on too many things to think about small talk. Scotty's presence wasn't helping with the whole situation. He was a constant negative presence at the back of his mind.

They arrived at the docks moments after Lorfenzo drove in.
The men were standing outside the truck; the moment was intense. Oric had a
decision to make after all the information was brought forward. He wasn't motivated to start a war but he was ready for one; going after high value goods was a sign that the Quantu's were ready to ignite a flame that for too long had been put out. They moved to the offices to strategize for what the next move was going to be. The more Oric, Gromla, Lofenzo, Pretodzi and Irom discussed the more Oric realized that retaliation was inevitable. He was nervous of what the outcome of this action would be for the business, the men he had become to accustomed to and his family. They soon all turned to him to find out if the plan that they had come up with was ready to be put into action. He paused and looked at their faces. Each carrying no emotion, no fear not even excitement. They waited for a few moments before Oric spoke;

"It's going to be dawn soon. Let's do this then."

All but Irom and Gromla left the office. The men made a couple of phone calls; they needed reinforcements. Pretodzi called one his friends that he usually worked with in such situations;

"Wake up, duty calls. Bring your boys and tell them it's on."

"Where?"

"At work, where else?"

"Alright, I'll be there. Any tools needed?"

"Bring them all."

The call was short; emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Lorfenzo called out to a couple other drivers; one truck wasn't enough. By the time it was 4:55am they were all on the way to Grayd. The trucks moved along and there was a heaviness in the air. Oric lead the mini motorcade and though he knew that at any moment all he needed to do was tell them it wasn't worth the trip, he knew that diplomacy was not the Quantu's way of handling things. Their actions were not going to be ignored. The trucks crossed the dam at a sturdy speed, Oric had
let his father know that they were going to Grayd to retaliate, he didn't support it but he also understood that something had to be done.

Jordi's phone rang a couple of times before picking up the phone.

"Yes dad?" Her voice clearly indicated that she had already fallen asleep before waking up to answer the call.

"Get in touch with your friends in Grayd and tell them to let you know if anything happens again, especially gun fire."

"Okay is everything alright?"

"Time will tell but Oric has gone there and we'll need to know what happens. We may need to travel soon so start packing."

"Okay," Rudolf cut the call. Jordi was worried sick for her brother. He always found a way to upset her but he always took care of her. Scotty crossed her mind too. What if everything that was happening was going to put him right in the thick of things? She sent messages to her friends to let them know what to do if anything happened. After a few minutes she decided to send a message to Scotty;

Hey, looking forward to your next performance. Hate to admit it but I miss you....a little.

Scotty and the men that were ferrying him to Grayd arrived at a bay area that seemed private owned a little before 5:00am. His eyes were heavy and though he was constantly alert he could feel the fatigue creep in. As soon as they got to a pier he was instructed to get off the boat. He was escorted off the pier whilst the man with the boat sped away leaving him and the large man to take him to where he was supposed to go. He was shivering, despite wearing some warm
clothes, he never forgot about the gun holstered to his waist line.

"Hurry up kid, we haven't got all night." Their pace quickened with the man remaining behind him the entire time. Scotty's heart beat quickened as the thought of being searched crossed his mind. The only comfort was that he hadn't yet been searched. Chances were they weren't going to search him anyway. The walk was short and soon they entered a fenced area with the warehouse at the far right end the point of destination. His heart raced and his attention shifted from the man to the building. They were soon in the large structure, the high roof and wide entrance not helping with shielding him from the cold wind that seemed to have suddenly increase in speed. A man appeared from behind the door that lead into a make-shift office. A crooked smile smeared across his face,

"Scotty Accena, welcome. Come in, take a seat."

Scotty entered the office cautiously. He entered the office; there were two chairs and there two seats in front of the very simple table.

"You can leave." The well-dressed man instructed the man that brought Scotty in from Valeria.

"You can call me Bill, Scotty. I hope your journey here was pleasant enough. I've really been looking forward to meeting you."

"It was fine thanks. A bit tiresome."

"Of course! A bumpy speed boat ride can get tiresome when you're constantly under pressure but I hope by now your worries are a lot less overwhelming than before."

"Yes, you can say that." Scotty wasn't uninterested to friends with Bill. All he was focused on at that point was getting the job done and moving on with his life.

"Good, let's get down to business then."
The man gave Scotty the briefing of what he was supposed to do in a few hours' time. Scotty's face became pale. He knew that what was bringing him this far wasn't a simple task but he had no idea it was this intense. He leaned forward against the table to nurse the urge to regurgitate but it was of little use.

"I hope it won't be a problem Scotty, you really are necessary in all of this and I'd hate to send you back without completing your task, it wouldn't make me look good. And if I don't look good people like you get affected too because as of now young man, we're in this together, câpiche?" Scotty nodded gently as he stared down at the floor between his legs. He breathed in and out before sitting up and looking at Bill.

"So when do we go?" He tried his best to sound confident but even he could tell fear rolled of his tongue like a sour cordial.

"We aren't going anywhere but you on the other hand are starting off soon enough. In the mean time make yourself comfortable, this might as well be your bedroom." The man stood up and started to walk out. He paused in the doorway and spoke;

"Do you know where you are Scotty?"

"No I don't." Scotty said.

"Good. At least you know where you're going." The man walked out and the entire warehouse echoed as men moved things about. It seemed like they were really working to finish something. There was banging and clinking and all kinds of metallic sounds being made but it was all hidden behind and encampment of thick plastic. He looked around to find a comfortable spot to rest whilst waiting for what awaited. Sure enough, in the corner near him there was a cardboard box with something in it. He sat on it and leaned against the wall. He exhaled and closed his eyes and tried to figure out where he was whilst trying to see where he was going. It was a blurry image and the lack of information was frightening.
Suddenly he remembered that he had his phone on him. He trembled at the thought of being caught using it but he was willing to take the risk anyway. He pulled it out only to find that only a small percentage remained before it would discharge completely. Missed calls and messages from Brianna, Annabel and others were unsettling to look at but he started browsing through them anyway.

Scotty, I've been calling you. I miss you and I want you back this side tomorrow or the other day like you promised you would be. Let me know how everything goes okay?

Annabel was always her over caring self but for once, he never had a problem with that, if anything it made him miss home even more. The agony of being so far away was the worst feeling. He browsed through the other messages and soon stumbled across Brianna's message, he could hear her voice even before he read the message, she was obviously mad at him;

Look here Superman, we're waiting for you. Tomorrow we start off be back soon and please don't mess this up. Be safe and stay warm and hurry back, I can't handle Fleez alone .

His eyes watered as he thought of how much trouble his friends were going to be in if he didn't respond. The urge to type an immediate response gushed through his veins but he was worried that he could put them in harms way. He pondered for a few moments for what to do and decided to text Brianna.

Hey, I don't think I'll be back in time for the trip back, it's a long story .
Heading out to some place near or in Larkaland, I don't know for how long but I'll try keep in touch. Tell Annie I'm alright, she'll probably be in touch with you guys. See you soon.

He felt like he was saying his final goodbye to his friends as he sent the message, It almost 6:00am and the sun was soon to rise but for Scotty that only meant more anxiety and caution and the balance between regret and success. Going to Larkland like this was far from what he wanted but he reminded himself that we don't always get what we want and when we have what's before us, we must try to make the most out of it. His heavy eyes were soon closed and he begun to drift away only to be disturbed by the thudding of many feet outside the office he was dozing in. He stood up abruptly and rushed to the door. The men were running out of the warehouse at high speed, some with guns in their hands. His eyes met with one of the men he rushed across the concrete floor.

"What's happening?" The adrenaline rush didn't even try to stop him from shouting out to this man.

"War!" He exclaimed as he exited the warehouse. The warehouse was soon empty and silent again but it was then that Scotty heard the gunshots and explosions in the distance that the man was talking about. At that moment he knew exactly where he was; in Grayd!

Oric rushed from behind the metal container he hid to help Gromla who had been shot in the leg. The entire mission had been anticipated by the guys that worked for the Quantus. They knew the previous attack was not the last and what a surprise it was for Oric when bullets from everywhere greeted their entry into the port area in Grayd. His heart raced as the bullets whizzed past
the car with a few hitting the hard metal. His mind immediately searched for somewhere to hide from the floury of gunfire, he drove on increasing speed as he did so and was soon out of fire reach and parked. The trucks followed close behind. Screeching as they too came to a standstill. As they spread out the gunfire was up again with only the road separating both parties; a boundary to tell friend from foe.

"We're gonna be sitting ducks if we let their reinforcements get here whilst this is going on. We need to retreat Oric." Gromla was right, this was no way to get the better of the Quantus. The retaliation was an absolute fail. He lifted him back and signaled to a close by man;

"Cover me!" He yelled as he dragged Gromla back to the vehicle. Gromla leaned against the car Oric drove as he pressed against his bleeding wound.

"Stay here, I'll be back." Oric returned to call back the men as they fired tirelessly at the enemy. He stood next to Pretodzi.

"We're leaving now Pret but I want you to leave scouts. We need word on the ground." Pretodzi nodded and rushed to the guys close by to tell them to start falling back to the trucks, letting three know what their mission was to be as the rest were to leave. Eventually they were all in the trucks and the three darted off in the opposite direction as the vehicles screeched away speedily to evade gunfire. They were out of Grayd speeding back to Valeria. Oric was sweating profusely and Gromla grimaced as he held his thigh. The plan didn't go as planned. As they drove back the sun was rising. Though there was little light, Oric was relieved to see a new dawn. The chatter on the radio came in as the scouts immediately had word.

"Boss come in." Oric signaled to Gromla to grab and answer the radio.

"Grom here. What's happening? Over!"
"There's a big problem boss. The Quantu's are already mobilising. Over!"

"Explain further. Over!"

"There's about four hundred of them. All armed, vehicles on standby. This looks like war sir. Over!"

"Stay steady and keep us posted of any movements or updates. Over!"

"Copy that. Over and Out!"

Gromla placed the radio back in the holster.

"What's our next move Oric, there's an army tailing us and we're not ready for that."

"Let's get ready, we have our men, we have guns. Start getting in touch with others now!"

As the war brewed in Arc Vale, word reached All Track that there was an uprising. This didn't sit well with Reid and his team. This was the last thing they needed given that Piettro and his squad were tracking down the disappearance of Scotty. It was 7:30am and everyone in the office was busy organizing counter measures after Reid had called for a meeting at 8:00am.

"Hera! This is not good. what's the status with Piettro and the guys , I want a detailed answer."

"Yes sir, give me ten minutes and I'll find out."

"Make it five."

"I'll do that sir." Hera blitz-walked out of the office and was soon in the operations room standing behind Jorex.

"Hi Hera, what's up?"

"We need a detailed updated from the guys in Arc Vale. The boss isn't happy and you know what that means."

"Yeah, like we haven't already been working overtime. Let me get to Adria." He opened the line between Adria and All Track.

"Hello soldiers and Adria in specific, what's the update with Scotty and the rest of the crew."
"Hi Jorex, let's see. Piettro what's the status with you guys over there.?"

"We're still waiting for Irene to get to Valeria. Hena, any word from you concerning her arrival?"

"No sir, she must still be on the train from Grayd. She's coming in early this morning as reported by Greg and Kew."

"Alright and as for us here at the Luxor, it looks like the two are still stationed. Brianna made a call to Brant, I'm pretty sure there'll be meeting at 9:00am. We're still waiting for the feedback from the tap on Scotty's phone, isn't that right Adria?"

"That is correct sir but it seems he had done some tweaking to his phone; it has somehow been disguised or cloaked. We can't even get a location but the number is active...for now."

Hena shook her head, it was not the kind of news she wanted to take to her boss.

"That isn't helping guys. I'm sure you already know that there's a war brewing in Arc Vale and if Scotty has somehow fallen into the hands of the Quantu's, who knows what schemes are being used surrounding his involvement, we need to get the three out and find out what's going on with Irene too. Something tells me she's still got a part to play in all of this. Besides, she's going to work much earlier than usual. I need more information." Hena's voice was drowned with worry and anxiety and there was every reason for it to be that way. Things were tense.

"Alright, we can only make a move for Irene when she has arrived. As for the artists we can try and lure them out for a quick word but as for Scotty that's a blind spot m'am and for now we can only wait for that event to come into play. If it hasn't already." Piettro was confident and with that he brought assurance to the whole team that things will be alright.

"Okay Piettro. I'll be back in five minutes. I hope to find good news."
"Yes m'am."

Hera left the room and went to do some other work whilst Piettro, Tarent and Lex moved towards the Luxor. Despite his confidence he knew that things were not completely in their hands but that was the risk they all took.

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ENEMY TERRITORY

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The gunfire was unnerving for Scotty. He was relieved to have finally been contacted by Bill and a few men at around 7:45am. He was half awake listening to the sounds of the war that the man shouted about a couple of hours earlier. His eyes were closed but were fully open when he heard footsteps approaching the room he sat in.

"Wake up Mr. Accena, this is no time for dreaming." Bill's mocking tone didn't help the fact that Scotty was sleepless and worried sick of what was about to happen. He stood to his feet to face Bill and four other men. Two of which were his transporters the previous night from Valeria.

"As we started to discuss earlier, you and my men are heading out to Larkland. It won't be a very long trip but you can catch a few winks on the way. You will do a job for me. There's a package you're to pick up for me there. You bring it back here and you're free to go. Simple right?"

Scotty paused for a few moments and responded.

"Yeah I guess but what's in it for me? I didn't agree to a peace keeping mission you know."

Bill laughed.

"You hear that boys, gunshots have toughened this little brute's resolve. Look here Scotty, your life is all you need to get out of this with. That's payment enough." The other men laughed forcefully. It almost seemed like they had no option.

"No! I need money sir and I need it right after doing this for you. I don't know why you chose me but I'm certainly not going anywhere without you stating what I'm working for."

Bill was surprised by Scotty's attitude.

"I was actually going to pay you at least two thousand Narks but with that attitude, you just lost five hundred."

Scotty remained stubborn.
"With your wealth I know this package costs a lot more. Pay me five thousand and you'll have me doing it happily."

Bill smiled sarcastically. He looked at his men but they were too obedient to respond so they just looked back at him.

"I like you kid, so here's what I'll do. I'll throw in three thousand five hundred if you can get part of the package to my friends in Cavalaria. That's good pay for a good day's work."

"No sir, five thousand and I can spend a night there too. No questions asked."

Again, Bill laughed, this time he laughed alone.

"You see Scotty, five thousand is what these boys earn after at least four of these kinds of trips and as you can tell, they don't like you. My price means my rules. Which also means, your safety. You don't want to be found on the shores of the Molepa dam dead and with no money, do you? No! Three thousand five hundred by the end of the day and that's that. Don't get on my bad side Scotty, it's a good deal."

"Okay."

"Good. Boys, it's time. Scotty get your head straight; you're going for a little joy ride."

The air was cool and the sun was bright. The six of them walked down to the pier that Scotty walked up the previous night. They (including Scotty) climbed on board the same centre console boat they had used to bring Scotty to Grayd. Bill stayed ashore with two men.

"See you soon Mr. Accena. Boys, try to keep him alive." He turned and walked back to the Warehouse. Scotty and his two companions were speeding off staying close to the shoreline before pushing away from River Vlaresta as its out going current worked the boat little more. Scotty sat behind the two men as the air filled his face. For a moment he was happy and almost free. He closed his
eyes as the boat bounced up down over the small waves. The wind was fresh and crisp and if the mission hadn't been so unnerving, Scotty would've thought they were on a small vacation. He smiled to himself before opening his eyes. The men were fixated on the boat's direction with their backs facing him. He snuck out his phone and to his relief, his phone was still on. Again many missed calls and messages from many people. Despite everything he thought would've happened it almost seemed like the phone was now more of a burden than anything but he couldn't take things for granted and he knew it was nothing to take lightly. He read Brianna's message first.

Look here loverboy, Annie's already been in touch and she's not happy Scott! Tell her yourself, I can't deal with all this right now. We'll wait for one more day. That's it! Get in touch man. Oh and Fleez says get a life. ;-).

He smiled again, the thought of his friends being alright was always a comfort. It was 8:10am and by now Annabel was already awake expecting some kind of response to the messages and unanswered calls. He responded to Brianna's text before responding to Annabel's;

Thanx Bri. I'll get in touch. I might be back this evening if it goes well. :-P

He looked up immediately after replying to see what the men were up to, they were chatting and kept looking forward. He put the phone away, he felt like he had spent too much time on the phone already; getting caught was not an option, even if things seemed to not be so stressful.
Brianna read Scotty's response as soon as she heard her phone ring. Her and Kyle had barely slept that night and after hearing about the situation in Grayd from her friends back in Paridosa, Brianna couldn't wait much longer to get out of Arc Vale. It was a comfort that Scotty was okay but she was hungry and the confectionery was only a few buildings down the road. It was the only shop that she could agree to meet up with Brant who had also called in early in the morning.

She sat for a few moments to take it all in before finally settling with calling Kyle.

"What's up Bri, is lord Scott finally back?" He asked sarcastically. She giggled.

"No, but he has been in touch. He might be back by the end of the day so that's nice. We just need to stay alive. I'm going down to meet Brant; she's coming through at eight thirty. You coming?"

"Yeah sure, where we meeting up?"

"The confectionary, what's it called......Alowa's Confectionary or something like that. I'm out in about ten minutes so, yeah."

"Alright, I'll meet you at the door."

Brianna cut the call and started preparing for their meeting with Brant in a short while. Her mind briefly wandered off as Scotty came to thought; she was happy he was okay but she was also worried. She wanted to find out about Larkland but she assumed that Brant might know more, her heart sank but she soon continued to get ready; the day ahead already seemed more jam packed than what she had planned for. Kyle had been messaging Arina most of the time he was awake. He had grown fond of her and she seemed to be attracted to him too. She had let him know about what was going on in Grayd earlier on and he had spent most of the time trying to convince her to seeing him due to the
prolonged stay. She asked him why the change in schedule but he insisted on only letting her know once they had met up (hoping of course that this would be enough to bring her to the hotel). She told him she'd think of coming over but not to his room; she didn't trust him.

Soon he was ready and standing outside Brianna's door waiting for her to open the door. He pulled out the phone and read Arina's last message.

I'll meet you at Alowa's..the confectionery down the road. I'll be there at around 11:00 so don't keep me waiting okay?

He smiled to himself, he was fond of Arina and for once it wasn't an infatuated attraction that lead him on.

Alright then. I'll see you there. I'll try n keep my hands-off u. :-P

He responded and tucked the phone away in his pocket just as Brianna walked out of the door.

"What are you doing Fleez?"

"Nothing, I was just putting my phone away." He tried his best to act like he hadn't just flattered himself when responding to Arina's message.

"Whatever man. Whoever she is, I hope she's worth the embarrasment."

"Oh but she is, you might actually get to see her soon."

"I'm not sure I want to Fleez. Let's go."

They walked into the elevator and were soon walking past the receptionist desk, Kyle took a glance and saw that Helena was working. He turned and smiled at her, she smiled back at him. He turned and they continued their walk to the confectianary.
They entered it and a delicious aroma greeted them. How welcome it was. They looked at each other and smiled.

"Have I been looking forward to this or what?" Said Kyle whilst rubbing his belly.

"Yeah tell me about it. Let's order something before Brant shows up." They walked over to the counter and behind it stood a young man with a very straight look on his face.

"Hey look at grumpy over here," whispered Kyle as they approached the counter; Brianna nudged Kyle with her elbow as she wore half a smile, it was true that he looked grumpy.

"Welcome to Alowa's what will you be having?" His voice wasn't much more welcoming either but that barely bothered the pair; their stomachs compensated for his lack of charisma.

"What's the special?" Brianna wasn't too concerned about the specifics; if a place could smell this good then chances were most of the food was probably delicious, especially the special.

"Well, it's cranberry waffles with pelecotine tart with any beverage of your choice and it's also been availed at a lower price than usual, so you're lucky."

"Indeed, I'll have that and you Kyle?"

"Yeah. Me too."

The young man pressed the screen in front of him as he entered the order.

"Will you dine here or not?"

"We'll dine here thank you, we'll be by the tables outside."

"Okay," He handed Brianna a slip of paper that had their order's details as well as the order number attached.

"You can pay up front or you can pay later, which do you prefer?"

Brianna reached for her little bag that she had carried from the hotel, pulled out a couple of notes and paid for the food. She got the change and they walked out to a free table. It wasn't long before their order was delivered to their table.

"Thank you," Kyle said as the young lady placed everything on the table. She smiled at him,

"You're welcome sir." She walked away.

"Kyle! Really man? Isn't Arina you're main focus right now?"

"Yeah but what's wrong with being friendly?"

"Kyle, you're not friendly. You're an uncontrollable flirt. I'm friendlier than you Kyle and I barely even care. Let's eat."

Kyle laughed and brushed Brianna's cold tone aside. They started to eat their breakfast and after a short while were talking less confrontationally. Brianna's phone rang and when she pulled it out of her bag Annabel's name was on the display; she was calling. Brianna rolled her eyes.

"Scotty better be here soon, I swear I can't handle this much longer."

She answered the cal...

"Hi Annie!" She said with the most sarcastic look written all over her face.

"Hi Brianna! How are you guys?"

"We're fine, just trying to enjoy breakfast with Kyle." Her cold tone barely hidden as she looked at Kyle.

"Oh okay, well Scotty isn't answering his phone and I really need to talk to him. I'm sure he's been in touch by now."

"Yeah actually he has. He said he'll be back by the end of the day if all goes well. I'll let you know by the end of the day what's happening."

"Alright. Stay safe Brianna, I hear there's a turf war going on that side and I'm told it could affect many people. You may want to stay indoors today."

"Thanks Annie, we'll lock ourselves up real soon. We'll be fine and so will Scott."

"Thank you, Brianna, I hope to see you all soon." She hung up the phone.

"What's with you and Annie, you always seem to snap when she's talking to you."

"It's nothing, it's a girl thing you know. Besides, she's not exactly my kind of person."

"And I'm the difficult one." Kyle shook his head and continued eating through his delicious breakfast. There was a brief moment of silence before Brant walked up to their table.

"Well aren't you two enjoying yourselves. You do realize there could be bullets flying around any moment now, right?"

"It's not that bad is it?" Brianna wasn't convinced there was something that big going on.

"I don't know how bad it is Bri but we need to get somewhere less open. I don't want to die today."

"I agree," added Kyle.

"Fine, let's get a carrier bag or something. There's no way I'm leaving this nice food for some random guy disturbing the peace."

Kyle called out to the waitress. She came through and soon everything had been packaged. They got into Brant's car and drove up to the hotel.

Piettro, Lex and Tarent were following the pair the entire morning, as they entered the hotel again there was a lot of chatter through the comms.

"Piettro, we have a problem," spoke Jorex.

"What is it?"

"There's going to be a turf war in Arc Vale and it's about to happen soon. Irene hasn't moved and by what I'm being told, the guys in Arc Vale are moving for the Molepa dam bridge."

"Okay. Hena and your team what's your status any word surrounding
the Fasceda's?"

"I'm on my way to the port sir and I'll be there soon. I will have a report in a few minutes."

"Okay, Godspeed Presto and for the rest of you at the restaurant what's the status with Irene?"

"She came in and was conversating with a random stranger, he's still standing near the entrance"

"And?" Piettro and everyone else was silently waiting for Hena's response.

"Nothing, it's hard to tell but he's wearing a cap and casual clothes. He might just be a civilian or a friend. I can't advise to make a move right now sir. It's probably best to see what he's waiting for."

"Fine. Greg and Kew you need to move from your location. Carry as much portable equipment as you can. Avoid confrontation if you can. If anything is going to happen I don't want you found in the cross fire. All but Scotty are here so let's be here. Adria, keep the engine running, we may need a quick getaway."

"Yes sir," responded Adria.

Greg and Kew started packing up the equipment. The tension was immense and both of them could feel it.

" We need to hurry mate."

"Yeah, Arc Vale....what a storm."

"Yeah but what else is new, it's Arc Vale."

They were soon all packed up and ready to leave when they heard a series of vehicles speeding through the streets. They ran out of the room and into the street to see what was happening. Greg caught a glimpse of one of the vehicles as it sped by, it was an military truck and it was headed straight for the bridge connecting Grayd to Arc Vale.

"Piettro come in."
"I'm here Greg, talk to me."

"It looks like the war's coming to Valeria. I'm not sure how many vehicles but I've managed to catch four filled with men heading towards the bridge. We'll delay to start off but we need to know what's going on."

"Thanks for that Greg, We'll keep you posted, you keep in touch. Presto what's the status over there.?"

"I'm only arriving now but from what I can see, whoever's coming here is already very well expected. The bridge is sealed off, there's no coming to Valeria using the bridge. There's definitely going to be a war sir."

"Okay. Jorex, any word on what you hear? Base?"

Jorex's voice sounded through the comms.

"I suggest an evacuation sir. If the targets can be relocated it would be best. For now user K.O.'s phone is very still and inactive whatever she's doing is not over the phone. I suggest going to another part of Arc Vale for temporary hiding."

"I agree," said Adria.

"Okay. We shall see how things unfold. Hena has the stranger been approached by anyone?"

"Not yet sir. I will inform you of all the progress..."

There was a silence over all the comms as the reality dawned on everyone that a war was brewing in Arc Vale and it was moments away from directly affecting them all. Piettro and his team were still waiting in the hotel's lounge having a coffee as they waited for movement from Brant, Brianna and Kyle who had decided to remain in Brianna's room for the time being.

"Brianna, look I'm probably going to leave Valeria soon and most of the people are too. Maybe we can go together."

"I know but I think I have to wait for Scotty, he could be back here without knowing what to do and we can't just leave without checking out."

"Well actually you can and just get in touch with him, don't you think?"

"He won't answer his phone," butted in Kyle.

"Send him a message."

Brianna started typing a message to Scotty to let him know what was going. She sent it.

"Alright so what do you suggest?"

"Well I'm going back to my office to make sure that everything is left in order and then at around 11 I leave for Fallsview. I have some friends there and can lay low until things subside. We can go together and wait for Scotty to come back. In the meantime start packing."

Kyle left the room to collect his goods and Brianna started packing up, there was a sadness surrounding them all but this was the best decision for the moment.

Irene stepped outside again, Paula and crew were watching the pair closely. She handed him a dark object and he tucked it away in his jacket.

"I'll stay back and keep an eye on Irene. Keep us posted if anything happens there. Hena and Presto you will follow that man." Hena and Presto nodded in agreement. She then pressed the button on the earpiece to activate the line.

"Team, we have movement, I'll remain here at the Haven whilst Hena and Presto will chase after the package Irene gave to the anon. Jorex I suggest you monitor Brianna's phone activity, she might be in danger too."

"Roger that Paula"

The man walked briskly and was soon standing at the bus station close by. Hena and Presto walked close behind and were soon standing next to him. It was tense but the man kept looking forward, it was obvious that he had his mind on
other things. Meanwhile Oric and his men were at the bridge waiting for the Quantu's retaliation to happen. Gromla was being attended to by some of the first aid team members on site but was keen to get back in action.

"Have you sent men to the other harbors too?" He asked Pretodzi.

"Yes they are already there sir. If there will be any activity there, they will let me know."

"Good. Stay close then." Everyone was in position and everything was suddenly still. The breeze swept through the air and silence pierced the troubled minds of the men that hadn't seen any gunfights in Arc Vale before but then again, it was innevitable, there was too much tension between the Quantu's and the Fasceda's. Soon the vehicles could be seen approaching Valeria, Everyone had their guns up and pointed in the same direction. The vehicles stopped. It seemed the Quamtu's weren't expecting the road to be blocked. There was no movement from either side but as Oric and Pretodzi stood side by side facing their enemies the radio muffled and one of the men at the harbor spoke.

"We have movement. Over!"

"What's the staus? Over!"

"There's about six speed boats coming our way with armed men in them. What's the course of action? Over!"

"If you can hold them off, do so. Over!"

"Copy that. We can hold them off. Over."

"Good. Keep me posted. Over and out!"

Oric looked at Pretodzi.

"So that's that sir. It seems the only thing now is to find out what will happen here on the bridge."

"They'll probably try and negotiate for a neutral place to fight.
That won't happen."

Pretodzi nodded and the stand off continued for a few moments before four men stepped out of one the trucks, it was Bill and and his men. They walked up to the blocked area slowly. Oric's and everyone else's eyes were fixed on them. They approached and when close enough they dropped their weapons and and stood still. He held a megaphone in his hand and lifted it towards his mouth.

"We will fight you if we have to but clearly that is not the best solution Oric."

"Go get me my megaphone and hurry." Pretodzi ran to the office close by and returned with a megaphone for Oric to use. He turned it on and spoke.

"Then turn your men around go home and return with the stolen goods, Bill!"

Silence.

Then Bill spoke again.

"Turning the men around is not a problem but the goods, that's another issue Oric and you know that."

"There is no other way to avoid what is about to happen and I will have it no other way."

"Fine, then let's meet in an hour in the centre of the bridge. Just you and your dignitaries and I with mine."

"Make it two hours and call off the men at the harbors, I don't want to kill them."

Bill made some hand suggestions to one of his men and he returned to the truck. A short while later the radio in Pretodzi's hand muffled again.

"They've made a u-turn, what does that mean? Over!"

"Stay there for now and keep me posted. Over and out!

"They're gone Oric, see you in two hours." Bill turned round and headed back to
the truck the convoy made the u-turn and the appending war was avoided, at least temporarily. The men in Valeria dropped their weapons and started dismantling the blockage after the vehicles dissappeared. Oric returned to the office where Gromla sat with a bandage around his thigh.

"Well that was close," he stated.

"Yes but it's not over Gromla. If anything there's still a lot to be resolved and if the meeting will go well then that could also spell out further confrontation. I've respected Bill but after this, I want to eradicate everything they have done. Arc Vale has become too small for both of us to dwell in it."

Oric got out his phone and called his father.

"Yes?" His faher's voice was just as flat as always.

"No war apparently. We're having some kind of a parlé at the centre of the bridge in about two hours."

"Good, very good. You should come get me. We have a lot to discuss with that family and if nothing is sorted by the end of the day..............something must be sorted by the end of the day."

"Alright, I'll be there soon." He hung up and faced Gromla and Pretodzi.

"Keep an eye on things, I'll be back soon. If anything happens don't even hesitate to get in touch alright?"

"No problem boss. We'll be here."

Oric nodded and left the office and got in his car which had a few bullet dents in the side.

"And Gromla, get someone to look at this." He shouted as he drove away.

By the time Scotty and his compatriots got to border between Cavalria and Arc Vale Scotty was already feeling a little lightheaded. He wasn't used to travelling
by water and the bumpy ride wasn't helping. One of the men turned round to see what he was up to as they approached the blockage that was also a border post.

"What's wrong boy, didn't have enough to eat this morning?" He teased as the boat slowed down. Scotty tried to force a smile but he was too unwell to.

"Yeah, I guess." He said weakly.

"Well, don't worry kid, we'll be there and you can eat whatever the hell you like. Just don't die on us, we're not in the mood."

Scotty nodded meekly and faced down to the floor. The two men laughed to each other and pulled into the path that allowed them to pass through the small gate. A voice shouted from one of the large ships blocking the passage through the border.

"Bad timing to be leaving Arc Vale don't you think?"

"We're not in charge Lorelo. You know how it goes. We can drop off your share now or on the way back. We'll be back by nightfall."

"You can drop it off now, you boys have a death wish. For all I know this is your last trip." The two men laughed as one of them reached for a parcel he had stashed away in the cabin. He reached up and handed it to Lorelo who bent over to get it. He was armed and there were several others with large guns strapped around their necks.

"Who's the sick-ling in the back?" He asked as he received the parcel.

"Ah, just some kid, he won't be any trouble."

"He better not, the trouble in Arc Vale is bad enough news for the people in Cavalaria and Larkland. Where are you headed anyway?"

"Bristonia, then Quiolka. It's just a routine run Lorelo don't stress it. We'll be out of your hair in no time."
"Oh I know. What I don't want is for your presence to cause any unnecessary commotion. I know you Arc Valians far too well."

"Not today, today we're not causing any trouble. It'll be alright."

"Good, be on your way." Lorelo signaled to someone on the deck of the large vessel and soon a small gap opened up for Scotty and the men to pass through. They were on their way to Bristonia, the port city of Larkland. Despite its fancy name it was a rather dilapidated city and most of the residents were sailors or traders that moved up and down river Gkrei and sailed to other colonies via the large Hortenka sea. Quiolka was one of the largest cities in Cavalaria but its state was very different to that of Bristonia. It was fancy and much more civilized. One wonders how there was never any commotion between the two districts but then again this wasn't Arc Vale, people here were less crime oriented. The boat sped up the river as the city Quiolka surrounded the entire river with much of the space near the river taken up by businesses that handled incoming and outgoing cargo. The ships here were all large and intimidating and the presence of the little boat was all but unnoticed by anyone (or so it seemed). They sped on and soon, in the distance another bridge could be seen stretching across the river; that was the border between Cavalaria and Larkland but there was still a way to go. Scotty pulled ot his phone again, it was almost 10am and there were a string of messages but no new missed calls. He leaned back to keep an eye on the two men who seemed to be fully fixed on where the boat was going. He read Brianna's message first.

Scott, we're going out of Arc Vale with Brant. Not sure where yet but the war could move up Valeria and we can't stay here.

Get in touch soon alright?
He was worried that things were bad back in Arc Vale but he was glad that Brianna was keeping in touch. He replied.

Still on the move to Larkland, not sure how much longer before arrival but I'll be in touch. You two stay safe. See n talk to you soon. ;)

He moved to Annabel's next but it was too long to read and by what he could tell by the first few words, she was worried and complaining about his silence. He decided to reply anyway (peeking at the men before doing so).

Hey babe. Sorry about the silence. I'll explain everything soon alright? Hang in there. Love you. xo

He sent it and snuck his phone away again. Only after that did he notice that he was feeling much better, maybe the tension of sneaking out his phone had an effect on his stomach but then again he was hungry and all he needed was to divert his attention to anything other than the fact that he actually was hungry. The boat sped along and as it did so he could see the edges of Bristonia in the distance but there was still some time to go before actually getting there. The sun was hiding behind thick clouds and when that happened a chilled gust blew at them. In those gaps Scotty remembered that this weather was not going to last much longer and by all means leaving Arc Vale was all that he had to do before the cold settled over Narkal. His mind drifted back to the one of the coldest times he had ever experienced. He and Fidel had only just started living together and everything was peachy until the cold came to test their resiliance. Visits from Brianna and Kyle were so frequent that they practically moved in.
Money was hard to come by for him and for the trio everything was so hard but Fidel was a good friend, he always made sure there was food for him and his friends when they couldn't manage and even though Scotty was always ashamed to ask, Fidel always knew that he never needed to. On the last day of the month before The Pharoahtics were called to record with one of Paridosa's most lucrative record labels, The Pharoahtics were up and about transporting goods for a company when the jacket he wore got hooked to an object and almost threw him into the river Heilora. He was able to avoid what would've been a cold catastrophe and slipped out of the jacket which ended up landing on the dark, cold surface of the river's slow current. As soon as he slipped out of the jacket the cold wind tensed him up and he wrapped his arms around his chest. His warm breath was visible and the harder he breathed the colder his lungs felt. The rush of the cold wind nearly knocked him off his feet but he was able to pick up the goods he dropped and rushed to the shed they were transporting them to. When inside he and Kyle took a short break to discuss Scotty's continuation; if he could manage or not.

"I don't think I can manage man. It's too cold."

"Oh come on Scott, we won't get paid if we don't finish this load and you know you need the money."

"We can get paid for what we've worked for."

"We've barely done anything."

Their argument lasted a good fifteen minutes before Kyle finally gave Scotty his jacket as a way to prove him wrong, only to realize that he was right afterall; it was way too cold to work without a really thick jacket with a hoodie. He remained in the shed until Scotty had hauled enough boxes to catch a rest. They continued to exchange turns wearing the jacket and carrying the boxes until (after almost four hours) they were done and completely worn out. They stood
uncomfortably close in the large jacket waiting for the man to pay them. He came into the shed with the money, a spare jacket and thanked the two.

"One day you'll remember this day young man," he said to Scotty.

"And when you do, know that whatever lead you to remember this day, is worth remembering too." The man left and soon they were on their way back home. Scotty had just got paid enough for at least two weeks of sub-comfortable living in his apartment but was completely shell shocked when he got back and found Brianna waiting for him and Kyle with a huge smile on her face.

"We've got a recording session with Genie Records boys, tell me that isn't enough to warm you up." She was ecstatic and the trio celebrated that night. From that day everything seemed to go rather smoothly for the Pharoahtics. One thing lead to another and soon they were performing at the Festival.

Scotty sat at the bac of the boat with a slight smile on his face. The memory came back to him at the right moment, he knew now that all he had to do is get through the day's work, get back to his friends and be back on his way. They had made quite a bit of money in Arc Vale and with this about to happen, Scotty knew for sure that when he got back to Triccoli things were certainly going to change for the better. He had fulfilled the promise he made to himself a long time ago and now, more was to come. All he had to do was to keep going. The man next to the one driving came to the back of the boat to sit with Scotty.

"Alright kid so where we're going we're not exactly welcome, so you keep a sharp eye and do whatever you're told. There'll be some merchandise to grab and you'll be doing that for us. You get in, you get it and you get out. Simple. you clear?"
Scotty nodded.

"What am I getting?"

"Don't worry about that, we'll point it out once we're there. All you have to do is get in, get it and get out. Yes?"

"Okay."

"Good, now you can open the cabinet over there...there's some food for you. Eat but leave me and my friend some."

Scotty was relieved to hear that he was going to have some food. He was concerned about what he was grabbing for these men but he was more concerned that it could have negative implications if he found out and told his friends. He opened the cabinet and there was a small cooler-box-like container. He opened and in it was some smoked chicken and some plain vegetarian sandwiches. There were also three bottles with what looked like granadilla juice, it looked very natural with the seeds still visible. He got a bottle, a piece of chicken and two sandwiches and didn't hesitate to start eating. The man got out a sandwich and a piece of chicken before getting the container and taking it to where the other man was steering the boat closer and closer to Bristonia. Scotty ate away and the memory played back in his head as the food tingled his taste buds and fondled his stomach. The tasty smoked chicken sat well in his belly, another piece wouldn't have been a bad idea but he decided to focus on what lay ahead and getting back home where so much now seemed so possible. The sun appeared again and the air was less cold again. The large bridge now drew closer and the waves seemed to have a greater impact on the boat and the current from the Hortenka sea was stronger as you got closer to where river Gkrei fed the Molepa dam. The boat bounced up and down and at times it felt as though the entire boat was briefly suspended in mid-air. Scotty clutched the edge of the seat after one of the larger waves almost knocked him off the seat
to the floor. The bridge was much closer and the speed was reduced as the boat was entering the harbor area of Bristonia, Larkland. His heart settled and his mind was less swirly but he was worried about what lay ahead, his turn to spring to action was coming up and both men were clearly concerned about getting this job done as soon as possible. The man that spoke to him earlier turned around;

"You see the bridge?" He asked. Scotty nodded confidently.

"That's the border between Cavalaria and Larkland. You keep heading upriver and you'll eventually leave Narkal. None of us can leave Narkal that way because none of us know where the Hortenka sea would lead us. Maybe you'd be interested, yes?" He smiled cheekily.

"No, I think getting the job done is what I'm most worried about, Narkal is too big for me." The man turned and faced his friend.

"You see, I told you he's smarter than you." He said to him. They laughed together and continued their discussion. Scotty shook his head and continued to wonder as he took in the view. The buildings were less frequent as they drew closer to the border just a lot of plain fields with plants in them. There was no way of sneaking into Cavalaria without being noticed, at least not from Larkland. The man turned around again.

"When we arrive, you shut up and let us do the talking. If anyone asks you anything, you keep quiet and let me and my friend do the talking. No matter what they say, you don't say anything. Clear?" Scotty nodded again. He was more interested in finding out what things looked like on the other side of the bridge and getting out of all of this as soon as possible. A sudden stomach upset made Scotty feel naesious and him wishing he was back home laying on his back, sleeping. The boat cruised on and the urge to pull out his phone was growing more and more. He knew that whatever Brianna and Annabel had to say was
important especially for the trip back home but he couldn't take the risk right now. Being found out would prove to be more catastrophic than anything. He resisted and focused on not regurgitating all that nice food.

Hena and Presto stayed close to the stranger as they all waited for a bus to pull up and pick them up. Presto could tell that he was uneasy but he was good at hiding it.

"I'm telling you man, this weather is not gonna help me in any way." Hena decided to start talking to Presto, the silence would get too awkward if the bus wasn't going to show up any time soon. Presto didn't know how to react but Hena's facial reaction nudged him to respond.

"Oh yeah man, I was hoping to hit the coast this year but I'm waaaay too late."

"You can still go man. It's still a little sunny." They smiled goofily when the man's posture eased up (making it obvious that he had dropped the suspicion that he was being followed by the pair).

"No, I don't want to freeze to death. Besides, the only place worth going is so far from here I might as well forget it." Hena was about to ask where that was but Presto nudged her, hinting that he had no idea where that was.

"Yeah man, we can go next year. And you man, do you ride the waves too?" Hena was ridiculous at acting cool but she was a stranger enough to the man they were following to not pull it off. He turned around with an uneasy smile on his face to answer Hena's question.

"No, I don't. I'm not that kind of person."

"Ah man! We gotta hang man, what you into friend?"

"You're not from here are you?"

"No sir, was camping in Larkland at the famous campsite there and we are here
for a few days before heading back to Cavalaria you know. Before setting out for the winter hunting grounds. I'm an outdoor enthusiast."

"I'm not an outdoor enthusiast and I'm not interested in your lifestyle. A piece of advice though, don't be so friendly around here. This is not a friendly place. Alright?"

"Alright man. Well we're gonna share a bus ride. Good meeting you." Hena backed off. The trick worked, the man was oblivious to the fact that Hena and Presto were actually following him. They continued their amusing conversation. Soon the bus came to a halt where the three of them stood. They boarded the bus and soon they were on the move. Hena and Presto continued their conversation as they tried to avoid eye contact with the man they were following. He sat directly opposite them and he couldn't get his eyes off them. Eventually this irritated Hena.

"Need a painting?" She asked sarcastically.

"No." His response was filled with discomfort.

"Well if you don't want to talk, stop looking then."

The man shifted his eyes away from them and focused on where the bus was headed. They continued their conversation like nothing happened, making sure to keep an eye on the man who kept his gaze forward.

By the time Oric got home most of the day's events had already reached his father and he was ready to discuss the way forward with Oric. He parked in the driveway and walked into the main entrance of his father's house. He was already up and drinking a glass of scotch talking with Lodreba. Rudolf lifted his glass towards Oric as a way to offer him a drink.

"That's the last thing I need. I need a wake up kick not a knock out punch."

Rudolph laughed.
"We're celebrating son, it'll be my pleasure."

"No, we can only celebrate after the talks, I'll grab a caffeinated drink."

Oric soon returned from the kitchen to the lounge with a long, slim can of his favorite energy drink. He made sure there was always a case in everyone's house, including Jordi's. He sat next to his father and they started talking;

"The guns are put aside Oric, stop being so glum."

"Dad, I'm not being glum. On my way up here I was informed that the Quantu's have a job in Larkland and it's gonna pull quite a lot of luggage, good luggage."

"So?" Rudolph seemed uninterested in this and Oric was not keen on trying to convince him to be but he still needed to let him know what was happening and why it bothered him so much.

"So? So not only are the Quantu's pulling large figures in Larkland but they're also pulling allies from Cavalaria too. They're doing all this amidst the rumors of a war and the recent news that they poked a large hole in our business. How would that sound if you were one of our partners?"

Rudolph nodded gently; the news made him go silent for a few moments.

"Lodreba, you can leave now. Just go up to Jordi's and ask her to come over. Then start preparing for departure for Fallsview. Get the maids to do that and don't forget to prepare yourself too. Oric, where's Irom?"

Lodreba nodded and left the room.

"Oh, I forgot about him. I'll find out."

"Good, they come with Jordi and I to Fallsview. And about what you just told me, wait. Their actions have put things that we cannot yet manipulate or orchestrate into our favor. It's bad news, yes but our partners are happy."

Scotty moved uncomfortably and responded.
"They are, yes and that's good but I'm not going to keep them happy for me to only beg them for their support if things don't go our way. We're in a risky place dad."

"We're in a tough place Oric and the news has put you on edge, you need to calm down not hype things up. What do you suggest?"

"The talks will likely confirm a ceasefire but I bet you five hundred Narks the goods will remain theirs, the Quantus don't do refunds for stolen goods. I want to know what's happening in Larkland and Cavalria. I think it's time to start using your friends in Mobilia too, just to ruffle some feathers in Grayd as a way get a better view of things.

"As far as the goods are concerned, they won't hold onto them. At least not all of them. I'll be there to talk with you before leaving for Fallsview."

Jordi walked in as they discussed what they were going to talk about and other problems that lay in front of them.

"Good morning gentlemen, someone looks like an abandoned puppy." Jordi teased Oric. He shook his head.

"Welcome to the real world, take a seat."

She sat down and though he always made sure there was a caffeinated drink available, it always seemed as though there was something wrong every time Oric had one in Rudolph's house. She sat down and Rudolph wasted no time in filling her in with what was happening. She tried to argue that she could go to a different part of Arc Vale and live with her friend until things calmed down but both men were very adamant that she goes with Rudolph to Fallsview.

"I don't want to go dad."

"Look Jordi, time is not with us alright? Remember you mentioned something about the location of the guy from the other night or something like that, I don't know." Oric was trying hard to remember what she had told him but he couldn't
pinpoint the exact information.

"Yeah, I remember. The guy who was involved with the shoot out that sparked everything right?"

"We don't know if it sparked everything Jordi." Oric Interrupted.

"Whatever Oric. Well, yeah the guy I was told about ran from the scene and was with some guy before he parted. His address is well known and as I said, it'll cost you."

Oric shook his head and handed three hundred and fifty Narks.

"Here, now give me the address."

"Make it five hundred and I'll give you his number."

Oric and Rudolph smiled.

"You're just like your mother, never a dull moment with you around. Give her the money Oric, that's valuable information. Jordi, you can go get ready. That five hundred can come in handy in Fallsview. Hurry now."

Oric handed her the money after she wrote down the information on piece of paper on the coffee table and walked out of the room quickly.

"Good, so what are you thinking son?"

"For there to be a shoot out that means that there's something that isn't right about the theft. I know the Quantus are not our friends but one thing's for sure dad, they do not steal from shipments here at the port that's too petty, even by their standards. If they are heading that way then we'll be wasting our time having that meeting on the bridge."

Rudolph nodded gently, Oric was right.

"I suggest we bring it forward at the meeting and bring the man to the meeting if possible. Let's not go to Grayd searching for one man that we don't know anything about."

"Okay, I'll call Bill." Oric pulled out his phone and called Bill Quantu for the first time in many years.
"Oric, I didn't even know I had your line." Bill spoke cheekily.

"Bill, what's happening is unnecessary. We both know that we'll have you any day but what's bothering me is why your men are coming to my port and threatening the fragile peace that we enjoy."

"Oric, you need to stop being so arrogant. We've never had peace just patience. My men work for me and if I order them to do something, they'll do it. I didn't order anything against you or your business."

"Then why are my goods missing? And why was the packaging in your port when you don't even use my connections?"

"What am I your teacher? If you're going to cry over spilled milk, you might as well bring a diaper change when you come for the meeting. If you'll even manage."

"I'll be there Bill and those goods better be there too," Oric cut the call. Rudolph frowned at what he heard as Oric and Bill frustrated each other.

"You two need to sort your problems out soon. This is not the time for turf wars Oric. All four sections of Arc Vale are having a good time despite the intensity. People are living here now and they're beginning to settle despite your bickering and constant torment. Don't forget that without the people here, there is no Arc Vale."

Oric shook his head.

"You're now sounding like a councilman. We're not diplomatic and if those goods aren't with the Quantus in the next forty-five minutes, the flood sirens will go off and there'll be war."

Oric got up and left the house to go and get ready for the meeting. Rudolph didn't even try to stop him. Oric got out of his father's house and drove down to his house. He got to his house and he could already feel the energy drain from his body.

That meeting better not take too long.

He said to himself as he pushed the front doors open.

The sun was hidden behind a large cloud and the cold wind filled Scotty's nostrils. The speed boat was slowed down to not have too much of a bumpy effect as they drew closer to Bristonia port. The man returned the lunch box where Scotty sat and gave him a look. For once it wasn't a menacing look. It wasn't suspicious or inviting either but it was a look and that was all Scotty needed to stay away from his phone. He was tempted to check his inbox knowing well and good that the battery could soon be drained. The man went back to where he was standing but they were too close to the bridge for Scotty to pull out his phone again. As the boat cruised on one of the men got a call and Scotty could barely hear what he was saying but after straining his ears towards the man's direction he could hear his voice. It didn't seem to be bad news but then again, he barely said anything. He put his phone back in his jacket's inner pocket after the call ended and they continued their brief conversation. Scotty was eager to figure out what was going on. Maybe something had happened in Arc Vale. Maybe they had won. His heart raced and with the thought that Brianna and Kyle were in danger, things started to look dismal. What if everything was going according to Bill's plans? He wondered for a while before the man turned round and came back to get something from the cabinet. He opened it slowly whilst talking to Scotty.

"You like action kid?"

Scotty's heart pounded against his chest as the man pulled out some kind of a gun from the cabinet next to where the food was stored.

"I don't like guns, if that's what you're asking about."
"I never said anything about guns, I asked if you like action."

"No."

The man held it in his hands and looked at Scotty sternly.

"Well that's too bad coz where we're going. There's going to be a lot of that and you my friend will be a part of it all." He smiled mockingly.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Scotty was worried.

"It means we're getting off the river now, you won't get to see Bristonia port and all it's splendor." He turned and went to stand next to the man steering the boat, who begun turning the boat towards the right bank. Scotty was anxious and his eyes felt heated up which didn't work well despite the fact that the wind kept forcing his tears to trickle from the sides of his eyes. The boat turned a hard right pushing him to the edge of the seat before he used his feet to stop the eminent fall. They drew closer to the river's bank with bridge now in full view but still far enough to have a blurry effect on the eyes. They coasted along the banks until the came across a small pier with a rope wrapped around a pole for docking boats to be tied down.

"I'll stay." Said the man at the steering wheel.

"Alright, keep a look out. We won't be long."

Scotty was nervous but what he thought was a sign of gunfire coming along now looked like a precautionary measure and it being daytime, everything seemed a lot less frightening. He turned to Scotty and gestured his head as though to say 'come.' Scotty got up, feeling the gun shift as he did so; it remained in a stable enough place for him to not take any action. They got off the boat and walked up the pier. As they did the man talked to Scotty about what lay ahead and why he was such an important part of the mission. He tried not to look interested but for some reason the more the man spoke the more confident Scotty felt. By the time they got to the end of the pier, Scotty felt like he could be able to do anything but reminded himself that this was a risky job
and that it wasn't to be taken lightly. Even though the man explained it like it was a simple thing, the specifics went through Scotty's mind and he maintained his cool.

"You better not freeze kid, the boss is banking on this success." The man noticed how Scotty suddenly zoned out.

"I won't." He said with a slightly surprised look on his face.

"Good."

They walked up the path that lead to the pier and then up the road that lead the path lead to. Soon they were passing some small buildings. It was silent but the buildings weren't empty. Most of the people there were keeping to themselves. Scotty thought of them to be dodgy con men. This was no area to be found lost in and not knowing what to expect; an attack seemed iminent with every step they took forward.

"What is this place?" Scotty asked as they walked slowly keeping their eyes peeled and ears wide open.

"This is bridgetown. This road branches off from the bridge and is often used as a shortcut through Cavalaria but the cost can be high and the risk, even higher."

"Who built it.?"

"What do I look like, the mayor. Shut up kid, this is no place to talk in low tones. Heck, this is no place to talk at all, unless you're in a shop. Okay?"

"Alright."

The pair walked on as the man kept the gun in his hand. The silence was nerve wrecking and for a moment Scotty thought of also pulling out his gun. He could feel the eyes of the people in the ghost-like shops staring at him. It felt like walking through a ghost town in an outlaw/western movie except everything was real and ten times worse because he could actually get killed, they both could. They walked passed the the buildings and started climbing up the road but
branched off towards a large field close by. It was filled with daisies and a large farmhouse in what looked like to be the centre of the flower filled space of land. They walked on towards the building slowly. The man kept looking to and fro making sure they weren't being followed by anyone. Scotty thought this was silly. If anyone was to be on them they'd probably be in the house or back at the shops. The house was three stories high and it looked splendid despite the tension of heading towards it like they were about to rob it.

"Alright kid, you're going to talk to whoever's going to answer that door and you're going to say whatever you need to say to get them to keep talking to you. The people in that house own the property, including the shops. These are not normal people kid and whatever you do don't take any food from them. If they invite you in stay there until I come downstairs alright?"

Scotty felt weak after hearing the instructions. He was imagining stealing something and squeezing through tight spots when he was back on the boat but this was like nothing, he imagined nor was it something he was good at. His stomach cringed and his facial expression was of clear and absolute fear. The man laughed gently.

"Good luck kid." He turned around and started heading back the direction they came. Scotty wanted to turn round with him but it was too late he thought to himself. Maybe the owners had already seen. The man headed back to the main road but Scotty knew he did that to avoid any glares from the farmhouse; that would be suspicious of the two approaching together. The man was going to make his way into the house another way and Scotty was going to be the distraction. He approached the house and could hear some music playing inside. It was slow music and it sounded strange considering the location and how it
appeared but then again, what did he know about the people of bridgetown?

He walked up to the door and knocked, there was no answer and no movement. He waited a few moments and then knocked again. A dull male voice came from behind the door.

"What you want you scum?"

Scotty was surprised by the response and almost took offense but he remembered the shops they had walked past on their way and maybe the men there worked for the man.

"A moment, if you please."

"I don't take kindly from strangers. State your business or leave," The man was bitter and his voice made that very clear to Scotty but he was urged to go the door by a younger female voice. Much younger by what he heard. The man's footsteps came closer to the door and Scotty was more intrigued than scared by who lay behind the dull gray door. He opened the door and Scotty's heart shot up a few beats. The man had no eye in his right eye socket and he could see all the gory details that were there to see.

"What do you want?" The man paid no attention to the fact that Scotty's face showed just how bewildering his lack of care for showing this abnormality in public was.

"Uhhhhhh.......I sell eye patches and today's your lucky day because it's on promotion and I'm also here to discuss other things you would be interested to buy as a potential client."

"The eye patch, I'm interested in but I don't think you have anything else I could be interested in."

"Give me five minutes and I'll have you rethinking everything you just said."

"I doubt it kid. You look like a crook to me." The old man's face wasn't very wrinkled but he sure knew how to wear a straight face that made him look older than he might have been. Scotty was about to try and say something before the
female voice butted in.

"Who is it?"

He turned round to face the female that was speaking.

"Some kid saying, he could convince me to buy an eye patch and other goods."

"What goods?" She replied, with an interesting tone in her voice.

"Why don't you talk to him, he actually wants to come in." He laughed gently as though to be mocking Scotty. Scotty wasn't sure to be offended or scared of the man's reaction but if he didn't go through with this, the awkward day could turn out to be worse so he resisted the urge to confuse himself with the "what ifs" and the "maybes" of things unknown.

"Well, let him in. What's your problem Qkres? It's not like you have anything better to do."

He turned round with and agitated look on his face.

"Do you have the eye patch on you?"

"No but if you're interested, I can return with it."

"Okay, come in and don't sit in my chair."

Scotty didn't know how to respond to that so he followed the man into the house closing the door on his way in. The man walked on down the corridor and pointed to the living room as he did so. Scotty peeped in to see which chair he thought would be his only to be shocked by how good looking the girl that was talking to him was.

"Hello, my name is Brolan and I'm here to......"

"I know what you're here to do Brolan, come take a seat just don't sit in that chair." She interrupted him. Scotty walked to the chair where she sat knowing that she would eventually look at his phone to see what he would try and advertise. His heart raced and he sweated.

"Relax Brolan I'm actually interested to see what you're selling. Apart from the
eye patches my dad can buy one for himself."

Scotty's mind raced to find what he could falsely sell to the people here. For a moment he thought of selling some of the Pharoatics' music but his face was all over their work and he wasn't disguised enough to get away with pretending to be someone else. All of a sudden Scotty realized how foolish he was for agreeing to sign up for this. If anyone there remembered his face, that could spell disaster. However he was already there an all he could do is continue riding his luck and that was that.

"Okay that's good. Well I'm here to sell many goods and maybe if you give me a bit of a hint, I could actually help you chose the right goods."

"Okay but then where are they? They're back in Larkland." He said, hoping she wouldn't ask too many questions.

"Okay, that's very strange people from that district don't come here very much."

"Yes, but the business is growing and we want to help you enjoy being our customer. I can deliver them to you myself if you want." Scotty started enjoying the string he had her pulling on, maybe he could actually get away with it.

"Fine, show me. My name's Heralina by the way and I like your face."

Scotty smiled, trying to hide how awkward it was to find such an attractive girl in such a deserted place like this. He pulled out his phone and said thank you as he did so. He opened the phone and tried not to focus on the messages Annabel and Brianna had sent and rushed to a browser to search for the store he used to buy things from when he was shopping online.

"Do you have a device of your own and a charger?" He asked as he typed in the site's address. She nodded and pulled out her device. He got it and typed in the site and started explaining the site and showing her the goods she could buy
online. He lead her through the site's various ways of shopping and she was intrigued and interested. Her father walked into the room with a smile on his face. They seemed to be very sad people and Scotty could see that she had something to say about their livelihood but it was obvious she was scared of getting it out. He sat down in his chair and started talking to the pair about how prices of goods that they needed were so exaggerated, he was against most new businesses but was still interested in the price.

"For the low price of twenty Narks you can buy four in different colors and it comes with a cleaning kit so you don't need to worry getting your filth all over it."

The man laughed and so did his daughter. She nudged her knee against his thigh and smiled at Scotty as her father drifted away by staring out of the window. Scotty didn't know what to make of her gesture but he wasn't going to let it distract him from what he was really there for. He suddenly realized that he hadn't discussed the exit strategy and now he started wondering what would happen if he left before the man was done doing whatever he was doing upstairs. He decided to sit it out and try make the situation with Heralina less complicated. He looked at her dashing face and tried to fake a friendly smile but hers was clearly not hinting for friendship. He paused, she smiled and said softly;

"He hasn't laughed like that in a while you know."

"That's nice maybe he can laugh more when he has his patches isn't that right old man?"

He smiled.

"I'll tell you what, I'll be smiling to the grave if someone worthy can get her away from me. She thinks I'm too old to live alone."

She blushed.

"He thinks he's the strongest man on earth, what he needs is to move to our
home in Cavalaria." She stared deep into his eyes as she spoke, her conviction prompted Scotty to make an offer he wasn't even supposed to make.

"Well, there's a small boat close by and maybe you can catch a ride on the way back."

She smiled.

"No. We can't just leave here, the men that work this area will become riotous. We don't need that now do we daddy?"

"What you need girl is a husband. I can't keep controlling these men alone. I have better things to do."

Scotty started getting uncomfortable with the way things were going. He asked Heralina if she was interested in buying any goods from the site as a way to keep the conversation from going the direction that he saw it going.

"Yes, there's lots but since you say I can order online, why don't you just bring them over. It'll probably be best to deliver to our home in Cavalaria."

"Sounds good to me but for now is there anything you would like to order?"

"Yes, I like the furniture and some of the clothes in the store look very attractive. Maybe you can help with that."

Scotty and Heralina spent the next few minutes talking to each other about different products that she was interested in.

"Why don't you just take her to Cavalaria Brolan. You can bring her back when she wants to come back can't you?"

"I really don't think so Qkres. It's a one-way trip, I have a few things to do but she can catch a ride if she wants."

"No, I'll be fine daddy and Brolan stop listening to this man, he just wants to have time to do things he knows are not good for his health."

"Well I can't impose myself; this is for you both to decide. I must be a good sales rep right now." He laughed subtly but that didn't move them. They both zoned
out and Scotty felt even more awkward to be in this situation. She continued looking through the site and smiled at something else she saw. Scotty was getting anxious, he wondered whether he had overstayed his welcome in this strange house.

"Well, I don't want to leave without making some kind of a deal, you could be very important customers especially you Qkres, not many people buy eye patches."

Heralina smiled.

"I'll buy the patches right now, when can I receive them?"

"Depending on the location of the store, it could vary from a few hours to five days so that won't be such a problem for you. The closer the store is, the quicker the delivery."

"Good, I'll order now maybe his face won't be so frightening to look at." She smiled teasingly. Scotty started to wonder what the man's story was for him to lose his eye but Heralina soon interrupted him.

"Don't think about it too much Brolan, so I'm ordering the goods now. Should I put your name for the reference?"

"Yes, Brolan is fine."

She entered it and got the check out receipt. She smiled;

"So I ordered from Mobilia, there'll be here in Cavalaria tomorrow morning."

"Great!"

"You're welcome Brolan, how can I get in touch with you for anything else?"

Scotty froze for a moment, there was no way he was going to give her his line. As pretty as she was, Bridgetown people were too strange for Scotty.

"Well this is strictly my work line but I can get your line and contact you once I'm home, if you like."

"No, I want the work line Brolan. I want to keep things professional with you. I
like you that way."

He smiled,

"It's against company policy, sorry but what I can do is send you to one of the chat rooms I'm found in. Or if you're that convicted to be professional you can email the company and ask for Brolan's contact details. If they agree, I can go through and do it but otherwise we can communicate unprofessionally too."

She hesitated for a moment, uncertain whether to tell him that she didn't enjoy nonprofessional interaction because she wasn't very good at socializing.

"Well, which do you prefer? Chat room or personal line?" Asked Heralina.

"Personal line is fine. I mean, I'd really want to get to know you and help you get your furniture sorted and clothes delivered too."

She laughed childishly.

"Okay, you can do that. You need my line saved or can I just write it down on paper?"

"Paper is fine." Said Scotty.

She stood up and got a pen and paper. She wrote down her number and smiled at Scotty. They shared the normal pleasantries of a farewell and Scotty was at ease as he felt he had done his part. He avoided looking at the staircase as he walked out of the house. She walked out with him and remained in the doorway as he left. He looked back at her as she waved.

Oric was dressed and ready for the meeting. He was more tense than nervous. Despite avoiding the war, there was still a lot to do as far as resolving the dispute was concerned. He changed his car and was on his way to pick his father up when Gromla called him.

"Grom," Oric answered.
"Boss, they are already at the site where the meeting needs to be what do you want us to do?"

"Wait for me, I'm on my way." Oric cut the call and parked the vehicle in front of the house. His father came out dressed in his favorite suit, an all white three piece with a gold chain hanging from the waistcoat's pocket.

He walked up to the vehicle with Lodreba escorting him and instructed him of where to park when Jordi is done. Lodreba nodded and went back into the house. Oric and his father left the estate and were cruising through Valeria to meet their arch-rivals.

"What's the plan dad?" Oric asked as he maneuvered the vehicle through the bends of the bendy roads leading to the busier parts of Valeria city.

"Well, first we have to get there, don't you think?"

Oric smiled, his father never liked the way he drove. He always seemed to be a bit too fast for his comfort.

"We'll get there." He answered confidently.

"Alright then we'll cross that bridge when we get there, literally."

They laughed casually and Oric continued to speed to the port area. Soon they were driving the streets of the busy city and his speed was much slower than before. He weaved through the roads passing the old shoe factory as he did so.

"What happened to the factory?" His father asked.

"Burnt down. It's been out of service for a little of a year now."

"Then why are there men standing outside?"

Oric slowed down to see what his father was so concerned about. He looked out of the window down towards the parking lot where a group of men stood. They weren't doing much and they weren't many either, a little over seven but they looked very out of place considering that the area had been closed off from public use. Oric got out his phone and called Lodreba.
"Yes Boss."

"Lodreba, the old shoe factory has some suspicious activity going on, get some men to take a look asap and keep me posted. Also, don't drive near it when you're on your way."

"Yes boss." Oric drove on towards the port.

Hena and Presto got off the bus at the same stop as the man that got Irene's device did. He walked a few meters before looking back to see if they had followed him. They were following him and didn't take their eyes off him. He quickened his pace and so did the two. He was about to start running before Presto spoke.

"Stop running. We already have you laddie."

He stopped and turned round.

"What do you want from me?"

"Give us the device." Said Presto. The man's eyes widened; he was spooked.

"No!" He exclaimed. Hena grabbed him by the arm before he could run for it. Presto grabbed the device from where it was hidden and opened up the small box. The device was there.

"What's going on here? We don't want to torture you for the information so just make your life easier and we'll help you out you'll be in need of it."

The man was quiet for a few moments but after seeing how things had turned out he let them know what was going and how complicated things would become if he didn't take the device to the men waiting at the old shoe factory.

"Look, we're not going to take you there but instead you're coming with us, if they call you, you're still waiting for the device from the girl. got it?"

The man nodded. They headed back to the bus station to wait for the next bus. Hena pressed on his comm to update the rest of the team.

"Base come in."
"I'm here," responded Adria.

"We have the device used to clone the target's device. We have the culprit too. Suggestions on how to proceed, he's an asset."

"Put him on the train and get him to Grayd to meet with Adria. He must be removed from the equation immediately." Ried's voice boomed through the comms.

"Got it sir but he has some friends waiting for him at the old factory."

"Crack em down and get one or two out if you can. There's a situation on the bridge and it's a good distraction for you to get out. For the purp's friends, observe before advancing on them. The quicker we get to the bottom of this the better."

"Yes sir," responded Hena.

"Expect us soon Adria."

"Sure thing Hena."

The comms went silent and Hena walked into the bus with Presto and the man.

"What's your name?" Asked Presto. The man was resistant until Hena nudged his rib cage.

"My name's Heqlar, what's wrong?"

Presto laughed.

"What's wrong? Do you have a federal warrant to be cloning people's devices?"

"No," responded Heqlar.

"Then that's what's wrong Heqlar. We're taking you in for your own safety my friend. You're friends won't be so lucky if they decide to be as stubborn as you are, so cooperate and who knows maybe jail won't be your final destination. Understood?"

Heqlar nodded submissively. Hena got on the comms after getting the nod from Presto when they had eye contact.

"GK come in, how far?"

Greg and Kew had arrived in Valeria and were already at the restaurant looking like a couple of lost backpackers. They had been arguing as to whether bothering the others was worth it but decided to have a meal at the fast food
place across the road from the restaurant.

"Who in the world is GK?" Asked Greg.

"You and you're partner. How far?" Hena seemed agitated by their ignorance.

Greg and Kew smiled at each other.

"We're in Oliver's House, you in some kind of trouble?"

"No. I'll be with the suspect heading south to Grayd you meet up with P at the restaurant. He'll be in touch. I hope you game ready."

"For what exactly H," Greg said sarcastically.

"We're not exactly in on whatever's going on there mate." He continued.

"A fight"

"Of course, we are. That is what these bags are for no?"

"Good."

Piettro, Tarent and Lex had been waiting for Brianna and Kyle to leave the room they were in with Brant when Hena started speaking on the comms. He waited for her and Greg to end their talk before butting in.

"Hena, we're still at the Luxor so if anything is to happen at the old factory, only one of us can come over, Lex that's you. Tarent and I will continue to wait for any movements. If there will be any gunfire stay safe people and keep us all posted. Lex will be at the restaurant pronto. And Hena, don't lose the suspect. We know you're female but that's no excuse."

"Got it. P will be at the rendez-vous too. Base, see you soon."

"Alright Hena, hurry back," responded Adria. The bus ride wasn't as long for Hena and Heqlar who got off at the station nearest the Valeria train station. She looked back at Presto as she walked Heqlar and a concerned look covered her face for a brief moment but was wiped off with Presto's slight nod, encouraging her that everything would be alright. She stayed close to Heqlar as they walked to the ticket booth to get tickets for Grayd. As soon as they got their tickets,
they sat in the waiting bay. Hena wasn't too concerned about the man but rather about the gravity of everything going on. As much as everything was going well so far she had been through too much with the team, this mission was different from the rest. Everything was seemingly stranger than usual with the trips to Grayd and back being a constant activity, she knew far too well that they were catching people's eyes and though there were no alarm bells raised yet, the threat of an awkward situation was always present.

"What's your deal anyway?" Asked Hena.

"What do you mean?" The man was calmer than before and that eased the tension between them despite the fact that he had been practically abducted.

"Why are you going around stealing people's personal information? You know that cloning devices is practically identity theft, right?"

"I know but I had no choice. I have to make money lady and if that's what I have to do to keep me and my family alive then that's what I'll do. We all fall on one side of the fence unfortunately I see you as an obstacle."

Hena was surprised to hear the man's response, he was so sincere.

"Well, your family also has to fall on one side of the fence too Heqlar and with the things going on right now, where you fall is now going to cost you. I don't want to interrogate you but if you come out clean, things might come out better for all of us. Who do you work for?"

Heqlar remained silent and that's all that Hena needed to know that the conversation was over. They waited for the train to arrive. She waited for Heqlar to stand up before walking with him to one of the train's open doors. A few minutes later and they were on the move. Hena pressed on the comms' activation button.
"A, we're on our way. Advice on proceedings please."

"Okay, Ylkov will be at the station to meet you."

"Got it."

Presto continued the bus ride to the restaurant. As he took the ride, Piettro spoke to him over the comms.

"Presto come in."

"I'm here boss."

"I'm still waiting for my report."

"We decided not to intervene with affairs at the port with the man and the device coming into the picture, we had to abort but I believe the AllTrack people have intel too, isn't that right Jorex?"

"That's right." Jorex's jovial voice streamed through the comms.

"We do have some intel it's basically just on the ground observations through surveillance devices. I can actually tell you right now that Oric, his father and a group of their thugs are heading to the bridge's centre for their meeting with the Quantu's. What for, we don't really know but whatever's going on is no small agenda. Getting direct intel will be difficult but right now our priority is the device matters. Scotty has disappeared from our sight but we're hoping he will soon pop up with activity on the river Gkrei confirming a small vessel passed Cavalaria main harbor this morning with three men on board. If they pass the harbor again we may be able to identify Scotty and maybe see what role he's playing."

"Alright thanks Jorex, that's good to know. We need to make sure everything is tight from now on. Intercepting Scotty is looking more and more likely with the removal of Brianna and Kyle being eminent."

"Alright Piettro. I'll be here keeping an eye on things." Jorex continued what he was doing and Piettro sat reading the news paper in the lounge area of the Luxor with Tarent staying close by.
"It's time Brianna," said Brant.

"We need to go."

Brianna nodded meekly and lifted her bags. She texted Kyle to come out and meet them as she went about collecting the few loose things she had hanging around the room. They started off and Kyle met them in the hallway.

"We have movement on Brianna and Kyle's floor Piett." Adria spotted them as soon as they had left their rooms.

"Great work Adria, we'll take it from here." Piettro and Tarent got up and walked slowly to the lobby's elevator doors. The doors to the elevators opened and Piettro immediately stepped forward to intercept the trio.

"Pardon me Brianna and Kyle may we please have a moment?"

Brianna was stunned by both the surprise of the approach and the immediate thought that something had happened to Scotty. Her face wore nothing but worry and as rare as it was, she was dumbfounded.

"What's wrong?" Responded Brant.

"We'd like to have some time with Brianna and Kyle please." Piettro insisted.

"Well, I'm their manager and I insist that you first tell me what's going on before taking them in. I'm responsible for what happens to them here and I don't think you can push too far mister."

"Oh, but we can lady. We're here on National Security business and these two as well as their missing friend, need to come with us."

"Who do you represent?" Brant was getting agitated and Tarent saw it clearly expressed all over her facial expression.

"We're a paramilitary unit working under the council. We intervene when things threaten sectors that can spread across Narkal, like the Pharoahtics' involvement with what you may already know to be a turf war between the two dominating families. We're not here to hurt anyone miss......"

"Vorkandji."

"Miss Vorkandji. In fact, you may also come along if you so please but we must talk to the pair alone." Tarent had intefered to avoid Piettro from escalating the situation.

"Well, mister..."

"You can call me Mr. Heralveski."

"Well, Mr. Heralveski I know far too well that even asking for an ID isn't enough in these parts and you know it. So why don't we sit in the lounge area and talk from there."

Tarent nodded gently, Piettro was mad and the look on his face amused Tarent but he couldn't show it. He patted Piettro on the back and hinted towards the lounge area but Piettro stood still.

"You go, I'll catch up in a moment." Insisted Piettro. He pressed on the comms and spoke to Adria.

"Base come in, we have the celebrities but we must first explain everything to the manager to get them out, stay online as we talk. Feel free to butt in and advise in case of anything."

"Copy that Piett, I'm on standby."

All five were soon seated in the lobby and Tarent spoke as gently and briefly as he could explaining that the Pharoahtics were being used as pawns in the whole situation going on. Brant had her concerns but he was well capable to ease her tension.

"Miss Vorkandji, I assure you these two will be safe in our hands and your reputation will not be tarnished. What's more, if you insist on coming with us your discretion is necessary. There's no two ways about it. It's probably best to heed our request, it won't be made again."

Brant was silent for a few moments and Adria didn't object either. The comm lines were active when the soldiers at the Haven updated Adria that they had left to get their gear together and would be moving on the team as Lex went to the old shoe factory to keep track of everything going on. Adria stated that from
that point all the soldiers were to keep their comms active until they were all in the same location. Jorex had also come in and agreed to help stay online too.

Brant eventually made the decision to tag along and though Piettro wasn't for the idea, it seemed that was the best way to not waste too much time in Valeria. They all went over to Brant's car.

"I don't think there'll be enough space for all of us, besides the road is closed off, the Quantus and the Fasceda's are doing their thing."

"Then we take the train." Said Piettro.

Brant stood for a few seconds as she analyzed the situation. She was already late for her appointment at The Skuller and was delaying her trip to Fallsview.

"Fine but I must leave everything in order."

"You can use your phone but we're not going to leave you here, it could be risky, for all of us." Stated Piettro. He was right. Brant was quite well known for her work with artists and her continued service to the community of Valeria. However, disappearing without "checking out" could also lead to unnecessary tension. She pulled out her phone and called The Skuller. She explained that she he to head out of town for some time concerning issues to do with the Pharoahtics.

"Is everything okay boss? Maybe we can send someone to come with you." Spoke Larianella: she was Brant's PA and was concerned about Brant's safety, considering everything that was going on.

"No, no. I'll be okay but what you can do is send one of the guys to come collect my car at the Luxor. It'll be in the main parking space and the keys will be at the front desk."

"Okay boss. What about your trip to Fallsview?"

"We can put that on hold, I'll be in touch alright?"

"Okay, we'll be here. I'll be in touch in case of anything too."
"Good idea." Brant cut the call and left the keys at the front desk in the reception before they all left the Luxor for the bus stop across the road. There was little conversation in the group and even Kyle and Brianna were silent for once but every so often they exchanged eye contact and for some reason Kyle's face was obviously hiding a cheeky look or a childish smile to lighten up the mood but because almost every time he and Brianna's eyes met Tarent was also looking at him, he had to wear a serious face and this made Brianna laugh on the inside. The walk was short and soon they were all aboard the bus. It was as though everything was just moving along automatedly. No one seemed to be in total control and yet everything still made an awkward sense that made everyone in the group comfortable enough to continue travelling without overthinking anything. They all begun to feel as though they were a part of something bigger than themselves and they were right for doing so because as they traveled to the train station Paula, Greg, and Kew were also aboard the bus taking them to the old factory with their military gear as well hidden as possible. The buses rolled on through the streets of Valeria and whilst this was going on the Quantus and the Fascedas had almost concluded their talks.

"So, can we peacefully finalise this meeting with you handing over my goods or would you rather I forcefully get them from you." Rudolf had been the main voice of the meeting; he was the most grieved after the expensive goods had been stolen by the Quantu's henchmen. Bill and his father, Brolu had been reluctant to return the goods but as the meeting went on, they seemed willing to return the goods for the sake of maintaining a calm atmosphere.

"Alright Rudolf, we can return the goods but you also need to remember our cut must never be forgotten. That's the agreement." Brolu was staring straight at Rudolf when making the demands and though everyone else seemed ready
for battle with their guns held firm, the eerie silence was only broken by the four men speaking; it was intense for them all.

"I won't forget Brolu as long as you stick to your end of the deal by staying away from Valeria and maintaining your distance from the other areas you do not control in Arc Vale. What has happened the past few hours is not good. You go and bury your lost soldiers and we'll bury ours. There is no need for further dispute." Rudolf spoke and the men behind him stepped forward and headed to the truck to carry the stolen merchandise back to where it belonged. Rudolph, Oric, Bill and Brolu all stood in silence as everything was moved across the bridge and loaded in a truck to take back to Valeria. Despite the conclusion of the talks there was nothing calm about being there. There were still things going on and all four men knew that this was not the last confrontation. If anything, the tension was only worsened by the peace talks but neither family was willing to pay the cost of a turf war. After the men loaded the truck and drove the goods away the four men shook hands, got in their vehicles and drove back to their respectful cities. The war had been evaded.

Lex was hiding at a distance viewing what was happening in the old factory's parking lot when Greg, Kew and Paula spoke through the comms. He directed them to his location and they were observing as things seemed to be very still. The men were clearly not audible enough for the soldiers to make out their words. One of them looked at their wrist and looked at the entrance where Heqlar was supposed to have entered by then. He got out a mobile phone and pressed it against his ear. Soon Hena spoke through the comms.

"Heqlar here has a phone call does anyone know if it's worth answering?"

"Hena, let him answer and tell him to tell them he is delaying, tell him to make up
and excuse that will stall until Piettro and his squad are clear of Valeria too."

"Got it."

Hena allowed Heqlar to answer the phone and told him the excuse to make. He did as told and the men at the factory bought it. The soldiers continued waiting until Piettro spoke through the comms to confirm that they were at the train station and were soon to be on their way out of Valeria. Everyone was safe.

"What shall we do to these guys?" Asked Greg.

"We need information from them. They can probably take us closer finding who's behind everything but we can either get the information from them or follow them. What do you suggest Adria?" Presto asked.

"Following them is too risky right now. We have the guy and the device. Stay put for now and observe. Try and find out if any of them make calls to anyone else."

"Got it but I suggest that we just tranquilize the lot and get them out of here to a safe location and interrogate from there. It's too open for any valid information and we're too far away to hear what they're saying." Presto was ready to take them down and get out of the open. He and the other four soldiers didn't carry all that gear to sit around in the open.

"What do you think Piett?"

There was a brief pause.

"From here, I think you should get information as soon as possible. If they're more mobile than you are, you'll lose them. You have eyes on the ground so this is your call. Just keep us all informed."

"Got it Piett." Responded Presto.

The team at the old factory created a plan. They were to wait for another ten minutes to observe before making a move for the men in the parking lot. It was a silent wait. The sun beamed down and though it wasn't very hot, staying low, hidden and still was beginning to be uncomfortable for Lex who had set up his
sniper rifle at a separate location to make sure he was keeping an eye over everything. He moved uncomfortably before speaking through the comms informing and complaining that the ten minutes had passed but just before Presto and the team made their move, the man that called Heqlar put the phone to his ear to answer a call. The scene suddenly became more intense as after he cut the call. He dialed Heqlar number but he delayed answering the call. It seemed as though the call had made all five men in the parking lot uneasy. Lex could see through the scoped just how observant they had all become. Whatever they had been told had them on edge and Lex was worried.

"Presto, you better be careful when heading down, the men are somewhat uneasy."

Presto was about to respond when Hena spoke through the comms.

"Another call for Heqlar here, advise please."

"Tell him to answer and that he will be at the location in five minutes and that he has the device,"

Heqlar answered and Hena confirmed after the call that the men were only pushing for time. Lex stared through his scope and after the man that received the call spoke to the rest of the men, they seemed to be less tense.

"Presto, I think moving in would be a good idea now. They're not so tense."

"Copy that." The men continued to talk to each other as Presto, Paula, Greg and Kew moved in from their hidden location. As the solders moved along the ground towards the area where the men stood, Lex kept scanning the surroundings as well as the area the men stood, the coast was clear and Presto and the team were moving swiftly and completely unnoticed. Their guns were raised and aimed in the direction they were headed and loaded with tranquilizers. As soon as they were in range Presto and his team aimed and shot. With all five
men stunned and laying on the ground unconscious, the team moved in and tied them up. They were pulled into the two vehicles they drove to the factory in and were left there as the team surrounded the vehicles and started making plans for their next move.

"We have two SUVs packed nicely and ready for us to move but we have to make this move together. We can either take the risk and drive them now in broad daylight which could be a huge risk because we clearly don't know which side these goons belong to or we could wait for the cover of nightfall and by what I can tell, they're running on a tight schedule." Presto spoke to the team and they were all silent for a few moments before Piettro spoke through the comms.

"We're almost in Grayd and you better move. Whoever those guys are working for will be waiting for them. Start heading for Grayd slowly and if the phone rings well, then you'll have a better clue of what to do but get away from there, now!"

"Copy that Piettro."

As soon as the comms went silent on Piettro's end Hena's voice crackled through the comms as she announced her arrival in Grayd. The signal was not so strong despite her receptor being closer to the base than the rest of the soldiers. She met Ylkov at the station, he had booked a taxi to pick them up and soon as she forced Heqlar into the back seat with a gun pointed to the back of his rib cage he sat down and they drove to the motel where Greg and Kew had checked out not so long ago. Everything in Grayd seemed to be busy and hyper after the war had been evaded but there was also a lot of damage from the previous night's exchange of gunfire. As the taxi drove down the street where it was all staged, the bullet holes and shattered glass was evidence enough that there was action going on earlier. Only the driver was able to keep his eyes forward as the car drove past a building that had been completely disintegrated by what looked like to be an explosion.
Hena was keen to ask but when her eyes met the driver's eyes in the rear-view mirror, the suspicion he wore kept her away from asking what happened. Clearly the war's effect had taken its toll and people in Grayd were still tense, who wouldn't be. Many could've died and though the damage was bad, it could've been a lot worse. The taxi parked in front of the entrance. Heqlar was shoved out of the vehicle as Ylkov paid for the fair. He thanked the driver and entered the Motel behind Hena and Heqlar. They approached the front desk and Ylkov asked for a room for four. The lady asked how long they would stay, Ylkov said it would only last a night or two as they had some business in town but he would confirm if a checkout was needed the next day. The young man who had just started a new shift nodded and soon they all sat in the room waiting for word from Adria on what to do next. Hena told Heqlar to place everything he had in his pockets on the coffee table in the centre of the large room. It was a suite for a family of four but it would serve the purpose of a safehouse whilst everyone was being evacuated from Arc Vale and more specifically, Grayd. Ylkov turned on the TV and started watching the news to see what else was going on around Arc Vale. The war and the gunshots had been a constant topic but there was no mention about the meeting on the bridge. The news presenter stated that 'The two families had come to a peaceful agreement but confirmation's illusive and the truce at that point was still only a temporary speculation'

"Well that's convenient." Hena said. Ylkov nodded gently, he was always a man of few words. It never bothered Hena though, she was used to his silence. She sat and waited for word from the other people who were all heading to Grayd. The entire operation seemed to have gone by smoothly despite a few close calls but the mystery of what was really going on remained a constant and Scotty's absence wasn't helping with the tension either.
As Presto and his team drove through Valeria they were silently observing their surrounding. The fact that they were travelling in vehicles who's owners were unconscious in the back whilst their associates remained unknown, it seemed to be a silly move to Lex until the phone rang. Lex reached into the man's pocket and pulled out the phone. The soldiers looked at each other as though questioning each other who was to answer the call. Presto, who was driving, spoke.

"Well, answer it but don't speak too quickly and keep a low voice."

Lex answered the call and put it on speaker.

"Hello," Spoke a female voice.

"Hello." Lex answered and kept silent.

After a few seconds of utter silence, she spoke with an obvious hint of agitation attached to her voice;

"Well I'm not calling to socialize you know. Do you have the device or not."

"No, I'm on my way to pick it up."

The lady exhaled violently.

"Time is going, where are you?"

"Headed to the pickup and then heading back."

"Look, stop wasting my time okay? If you don't have it in fifteen minutes the deal's off."

"I will have it in five minutes. I need to change the place of meeting."

She stayed silent. Presto looked in the rear-view mirror with his left eyebrow raised. Lex saw his expression and shrugged it off.

"Meet me at the Axel in thirty minutes and if you don't have it on you don't show up."

"I won't disappoint you."

"You better not, I'm tired of your excuses." She hung up and the entire seemed to be less tense.

"How did she miss the voice?" Lex was baffled, he barely even tried to change his voice.
"It must have that voice cloaking software." Paula responded.

"Either way we need to know where the Axel is." Presto wasn't concerned about the luck they just had. Their suspect was closer than they thought and they had a short drive to Grayd to make and that's only if they sped up.

"You're in luck, it's close to the motel where Ylkov, Hena and Heqlar are." Spoke Adria.

"However, it's not a place for crowds. It's crawling with Quantu personnel and right now only friendlies are going to get close without raising any alarms."

"And you know this how?" Presto replied,

"We've got intel too you know." Interrupted Jorex.

"We had intel about the location about heads of the family meeting up at the Axel which is a private bar and a favorite for Brolu, who happens to be Bill Quantu's father. The men you took down look like mercenaries hired by the Quantus and have been doing their dirty work undetected. What you've come across is a lucky break because they rarely show their faces anywhere during daytime, or so I'm told. So, if you will meet with whoever the lady is, it must be in a dark location and don't speak to her or anyone in person. There's a dummy package at the motel to be picked up but you must travel with stealth. Everyone in Grayd is on edge and I mean everyone."

"Thanks, Jorex." Responded Presto. Presto told Greg and Kew who were in the other vehicle with the other unconscious mercenaries to take the vehicle to an isolated location away from the attention in Grayd. It was still sunny and they couldn't afford to be moving around in two large vehicles such as the SUVs, one was enough. Greg agreed and they agreed to meet at the border between Arc Vale and Mobilia later that day. The drive through Valeria was long and fairly slow.

However, for Scotty and the two men the cruise to Cavalaria was the exact opposite. It was fast and windy. Scotty was a lot less tense as the boat cruised
down the river. He sat in the same position he sat on their way to Bridgetown. The package the man got from the house was concealed in a box and was obviously very heavy; it barely moved even as the boat bounced up and down. Scotty snuck out his phone (which was now even closer to giving in) and saw the messages Brianna had sent through. She updated him of how things were going in Arc Vale. The last message let him know that they were going to Grayd and that he had to hurry. He was nervous but responded quickly and told her that he was going to be back before dark if things went well. He ignored Annabel's message despite suffering the guilt of keeping her in suspense. He placed his phone back in the pocket and hoped that it would last the rest of the journey. As the boat sped along the wind dried out his face but he was too worried about making it back before his friends left him behind. His heart pounded as he thought of what would happen if he was to be left alone. Travelling back to Paridosa alone would be long and tiring. The last thing he wanted was to travel back with the heat of helping a heist right behind him. Being alone made it even worse but there was nothing he could do and that wasn't going to change any time soon. Whatever was waiting for him in Cavalaria was going nowhere and all he could do now was endure and make sure he did what he had to do and continue. He thought of the worst-case scenario of having to be alone in Cavalaria if things didn't go well, where he had to find his way back to Grayd without the two men. The thought gave him the chills, it almost weakened him. He recollected his thoughts and set his mind straight ahead. He had come this far without anything bad happening and if things weren't much more difficult, he would make quite a large amount of money for work that compared to what he'd done in the past was turning out to be a piece of cake. He switched his thoughts to how proud Kyle and Brianna would be when they were all back together. The thought warmed his heart and he exhaled as the boat cruised on
towards Cavalaria. After what felt like an eternity, the port they had passed earlier was in clear sight and his heart raced. The weather was very warm but the tension was getting things done as quickly as possible. The man that carried out the heist back in Bridgetown had told Scotty that he was the one that would carry part of the goods to the intended destination. Scotty wanted to ask why but the man's intense attitude made it eminent that this was not up for discussion. He would through the port to a warehouse and deliver the large wooden crate and walk away without any change in plan.

"If anything goes wrong you let us know but don't try to do anything stupid." Scotty nodded as he received the instructions.

"What if I need to protect myself?" Scotty asked.

"You run back to the boat and don't get caught. If they ask you any questions, tell them you don't know anything alright?"

Scotty nodded again. As the boat pulled into the port, there were men in suits waiting for the boat to dock. Scotty got off the boat and was handed the box as the other man spoke to the men in the suits.

"He'll go with you and you can examine the goods from the warehouse. We'll be here waiting." Said the man that had been steering the boat the entire time.

"He won't be long." Said one of the men wearing the suit.

"Good, the boss doesn't need to be kept waiting."

The men nodded and one of them shoved Scotty as though urging him to walk towards a dark SUV that was parked a short distance away from the collection point. Eventually he got into the vehicle and soon, they were on the move going to the destination. Scotty hadn't parted with the box, he had it placed it on his laps and was not willing to place it anywhere else. The trip was silent and uncomfortable. The SUV wound through streets and was soon on the main road cruising steadily. There was no way he was going to manage getting back to the port by foot if things went wrong, it was too far and the twists and turns when
leaving the area were too many to remember. His heart begun to sink as the worst-case scenario started to circle through his mind. He started asking himself why Bill was so keen on using him when there were thousands of people his age and size that were more than capable of carrying out this job too. He entertained speculations that placed him in the middle of a plot to assassinate him. He was starting to be nervous and the discomfort increased with the distance. The two men that sat opposite him never took their eyes of him. He tried controlling his breathing as the thought of him being assassinated intensified. Controlling his breathing however was of no use, the pressure of going to his possible death was not stopping him from sweating aggressively. One of the men's facial expression displayed some sort of discomfort. He spoke;

"What's the problem kid, you don't look so good."

Scotty was expecting some kind of confrontation as he felt the sweat trickle down the side of his head.

"I'm fine."

"Then stop making everything more uncomfortable than it already is. Do your part and everything will be alright. Do your job and you'll be alright."

"I know."

The man nodded gently and continued looking at him bluntly as though confirming that Scotty hadn't made him or his friend uncomfortable enough for them to react. Soon the vehicle turned off the highway and branched off to a farm-like location that seemed very peaceful and inviting. Under different circumstances, Scotty would have been looking out of his window and drifting away into the distance but even after the man's partially reassuring words, Scotty was not ready to drop his guard down. Until he was back in Triccoli with his friends, he was never going to be comfortable with what was going on around him. This "mission" needed to end and it needed to end soon. That's all
Scotty cared about and that was exactly what he was going to fight for, no matter what it took. The vehicle drove down a gravel road raising a cloud of dust as it sped down the road towards an area covered in trees and a mansion that looked lavish and iconic considering the surrounding landscape. His hands clutched the box with the contents sitting steady and unmoving. He was more nervous about the trip back than getting the goods to their intended location but the worry wasn't helping anyone, not even himself. He exhaled silently and let go of the negative tension that was weighing him down. Soon the SUV drove into the courtyard after passing a well secured gate. He was ushered out of the vehicle and he carried the box with him as he was lead by one of the men that sat next to him in the vehicle. Scotty thought about what to call the man that he was delivering the goods to but figured that if they were this silent then this wasn't going to make anything worse if he called him 'sir.' They were soon in a large room that he could only make out to be the lounge area, he wasn't used to being in lavish private buildings of such grand designs. The Pavadis lived well but he never really entered their residence. He and Annabel would meet in different places most of the time but it was a rare occasion for the two to be together at her house. The thought soon left his mind when he was told sit on a couch in the left corner of the room. He went to take a seat as humbly as he could trying to raise as least tension as possible. One of the men that drove up from the port with Scotty walked up to him and asked for the box. Despite the urge to let him take it from him, Scotty resisted and denied to obey the instruction.

"No, I think I can hold onto to it until I get it to the man I was told to give it to." His voice was frail; he didn't even know who the man was. The man smiled at him.

"Okay, then wait." He walked away and started talking with the other man that Scotty came from the port with. After a few minutes Scotty heard footsteps
descending the stairs that lead to the large room. He may not have not known the man the goods were intended for but surely he was not amongst the men that transported him to this mansion of a home. Scotty was right, the man wasn't with or even like the men that ransported him to the mansion from the port; his attire ensured of this. He was too well dressed to be a henchman and his posture too posh to not be the owner of the grand home.

"Where are my goods boys?" He asked cockily. The man that asked for the box pointed towards Scotty. His heart raced. Bill was far less impressive compared to this man but that could also mean that this man was much less tolerant and maybe even less understanding. He clenched his jaw as he looked at Scotty.

"Well, are you going to sit there stiff as a statue or are you going to give me my parcel?"

Scotty got up immediately, lifting the box as he did so. He walked up to the man feeling weaker as he did so; those sandwiches were well digested by now and the tension he was experiencing made his enzymes much more active, he was beginning to feel hungry. The man opened the box and browsed through the items as he spoke to Scotty.

"What's your name boy?"

"Alan." Scotty said, trying to hide the lie he felt compelled to tell. The man smiled as though hinting to Scotty that he knew that he was lying to avoid unnecessary confrontation.

"You can call me Mr. Mariona and you can tell the man that sent you that I'm not impressed and that he must get in touch with me." His eyes sharply pierced Scotty's. His stern look made Scotty feel uneasy but he wasn't willing to let that distract him from the fact that Mr. Mariona's words wouldn't count for anything if the men that came with him decided to take time to bully Scotty; they looked like they easily fell into that category and Scotty knew that stereotype far too well. Scotty nodded in agreement. After Mr Mariona looked through everything
he called one of the men to take the box away. He got the box from Scotty giving him a cheeky look as he turned round and walked away.

"So, Mr. Alan, you've done your job is there anything else we need to discuss?"

"No, sir."

"Not even the fact that your boss is in the middle of a potential war? You know it's not safe for you to head back that direction? You could end up as collateral damage and trust me, that's no way for a good guy like you to go."

"I have a deadline sir and it's probably best if I meet it, regardless of the situation there."

Mr. Mariona nodded gently.

"That is true but before you go, take a walk with me."

Scotty was shocked with this gesture. Had he done something wrong? Was the shortage of goods going to be placed on his head? He had so many questions running through his mind but he was obliged to agree. He nodded. They walked out of the front door and into the courtyard.

"Now look Scotty Accena, you're a valuable asset now to more than just the Quantus. I like you because you're smart but these petty jobs you're doing, aren't going to do you any good. Every time you find out something new it's like you lose all the composure you have, your face is an already solved puzzle. I don't like that with people I deal with, especially coming up kids like you. So, stop accepting petty jobs simply because you're broke. I'm no guru but these jobs are for the guys you've been travelling with and if you need to be tested to be trusted then you're of no value. You're replaceable but you're not so replaceable as you appear to be. We've got an eye on you kid. Oh and you can lose the gun now."

Scotty was confused, he was expecting a threat but Mr. Mariona's words came out more pleasant than he expected. The fact that he already knew his real
name was baffling but there was no way he was going to give up the gun. The trip back was too complicated for him to do that.

"Thank you, sir. I would like to know where you got that name from but I'm Alan and I do not have a gun on me. If you have any jobs for me, I'm willing to consider them sir but if not, I need to be on my way."

Mr. Mariona smiled wildly.

"Alright Alan. You travel safe now kid. When there's an offer for you I'll be in touch. Have a safe trip back son."

Mr. Mariona patted Scotty on the shoulder and walked back to the mansion. Scotty was still and rooted to where he stood. Shortly the two men that drove him to the mansion walked out of the mansion and called to him, it was time to go.

The journey back to the port was even more uncomfortable for Scotty as the men decided to take a detour before taking him back to the men waiting for him in the boat. They drove off the main road and before Scotty could voice his opinion one of the men spoke to him.

"Easy kid, all you have to do is stay in the car and let us do what we have to do. It won't be long."

Scotty nodded and hoped with every bone is his body that his phone was still on. The vehicle came to a halt in the parking space outside what looked to be an almost abandoned air field. All the men left the vehicle to go to their meeting and disappeared behind the corner of the closest building. Scotty took his phone out and to his surprise, it was still on. He turned his long range network on to send Anabel a message but as soon as he did that his phone rang; the caller was unknown. He answered out of fear that his phone would drain out before he got the chance to communicate with anyone.

"Hello," Scotty said in a lowly voice.

"Scotty is it?"

"Yes."
"Scotty my name is Jorex and I have been trying to track you down for quite a while now. Don't worry about how I got your number all you need to know is that some people in some high places have their eyes on you and in a good way. They're worried about you. I'm tracking your exact location, can you keep your long distance communication on?"

"Yes but not for much longer my battery is on two percent. What's going on Jorex?"

"Scotty, you have been involved in things you weren't supposed to get mixed up in and frankly, that's not good for the council. Certain arrangements aren't meant to be tampered with and your involvement in whatever is going on has got the council worried. I now have your location, we will be in touch."

Jorex cut the call and Scotty's body shuddered as he processed the information he had received. He browsed through the messages and missed calls he had received whilst he was preoccupied by the Quantu's errrands. Kyle and Brianna were now on their way to Mobilia and they were safe and sound but Scotty had a bad feeling about everything. He dialed Brianna's number, which rang for a few seconds before she answered.

"Scott!" She said in an excited voice.

"Queen, how are you guys? Where are you?"

She was explaining herself to the rest of the people in the vehicle as the call had raised an alarm. He heard her asking for permission to disclose their current situation and a man in the back ground agreed as long as she doesn't take too long on the call.

"We're in Grayd Scott and we're okay. The war is over but things are not well. Apparently we also have some explaining to do."

"I know. We've been involved in things we shouldn't have, especially me but I'm okay. I'm heading back soon. I don't know how soon we will meet but keep me posted." Scotty kept a sharp eye out for the return of the men as he spoke
to Brianna.

"Okay but where are you Scott? Despite your efforts to make everything seem alright it seems as though we are only growing further apart physically. I need a better description of what's going on."

"Look, I've been moving about and I'm still doing that. I'm in Cavalaria but I'm heading to the port to head back to Arc Vale. If things go well I'll be with you guys soon but don't let Annabel get too worried about me alright?"

"Too late Scott, my phone has already made her a favorite contact because of her frequent texts and calls. She said she'll take things into her own hands the last time we talked. I don't know what that means but if I were you, I'd hurry back Scott. It's already heading towards second sun and soon it'll be dark."

Scotty assured Brianna that everything was going to be alright and told Kyle to stay strong; whatever lay ahead was only going to be more testing for all of them. He cut the call and exhaled. He started thinking about his apartment back in Paridosa. The last thing he wanted was to be late for his rent but then, surviving Cavalaria, Arc Vale and Jorex's people was a bigger issue for Scotty. He placed his phone back in the pocket and waited for the men to return. The men appeared from behind the corner with no expressions on their faces. Scotty couldn't tell whether something was wrong or not but if Jorex had access to his phone's information and was against the men that were walking towards the vehicle, then Scotty could be in real trouble. He sat there uncomfortably trying his hardest to make out whether something was wrong or not but it seemed irrelevant when they were all in the vehicle driving towards the docks. His thoughts continued to race as the truth that lay ahead for Scotty continued to worry him. The SUV sped along and soon the docks were in sight. Everything seemed a little less intense but getting back on the river wasn't exactly the comfort zone Scotty needed to get him out of the pickle he had apparently got
himself in. The vehicle came to a halt, Scotty was told to wait in the car. The two men that brought him to Cavalaria talked with the men that transported Scotty to the docks for a short time, exchanging some goods wrapped in a thick plastic. A man returned to the vehicle and opened the door.

"You can go now."

If ever Scotty had thought of someone as completely uninterested in anything, the man that told him to go fat the description to a fault. Even his facial expression seemed to force Scotty to leave without him taking any offense at all (not that he had reason to anyway). He climbed onto the small speedy boat and soon the trio were heading back to Arc Vale. Scotty almost let his mind start thinking of how great it would be getting paid, be on his way and make the largest profit he made in years but before his thoughts wondered, he remembered a phrase he was once told; 'Never smile at the third sun because soon, night falls.' How right he was to remember it for as they reached the border between Arc Vale and Cavalaria, the river border's patrol signaled for the boat to park; it seemed passage to Arc Vale had been denied. Scotty's heart raced and the men tensed up. This was unexpected for them but for Scotty he had a bit of a clue but couldn't tell whether this was the council's doing or not. The men parked the boat and tied it down. They sat in the boat and waited for someone to approach. Scotty looked at them and was tempted to ask them what was going on but their intensity wasn't inviting him to approach them. They sat for a few minutes before two officers came up to the boat with a clipboard. They were asked about what they were doing and if they bringing anything to Arc Vale. The men pulled out the plastic-wrapped goods and showed it to the officers. One of the officers asked what was in the wrapping but both brutally expressed their apparent ignorance. There was a brief silence then the guard without the clipboard looked at Scotty.
"And you....why don't you fit into this picture?"

Scotty was shocked.

"What do you mean man? Are you looking for a model for your painting?"

The two men Scotty came with chuckled mockingly. The officer's face tensed up.

"Look kid, don't get on our bad side. As far as we're concerned you're just as much a suspect as these two criminals."

Scotty stepped back.

"I don't know what picture you're trying to paint sir."

"What are you doing with these two? Aren't you meant to be doing something else?"

Scotty was about to explain that he had no idea who these two were when another officer arrived and ordered the two officers to let them go.

"They're okay to go but the boy stays, he's got a bone to pick with the authorities." He said coldly.

Scotty sighed heavily and the two men smiled to each other as they got back on the boat. They sped off until the boat was out of sight. The officer called Scotty to the office and sat him down on a stool.

"Whatever agreement you had with those men and the Quantu's just got canceled. You will be picked up soon and taken to your next point. Is there anything you need right now?"

"Yes, am I allowed to make phone calls to my friends because I need to call them to let them know what's happening."

"If you have a phone of your own, you can go ahead. However, if you heighten the situation you will suffer the consequences."

"May I please have a charger?" Scotty asked, with a slight smile on his face. The officer handed him his phone and he immediately called Brianna but she didn't answer. Instead she responded with a message;

Hey, cant tlk. R u ok?
Brianna

All good. Lost the deal, with some officers at border between Cav n Arc V. Might be on the move soon to another location.

Scotty

w@? hw? wer u goin?

Brianna

I don't know but I will fill you in properly when I can. If Annie gets in touch, tell her to call me.

Scotty

Cool.

Brianna

Scotty placed the phone to the side as he rested; the change of events seemed strange but a lot less exciting than before. He didn't enjoy being held against his own will. The minutes turned to hours and soon the sun was disappearing behind the contours of the planet's curve and under the rise of the landscape's prowess. The air grew colder as the water vessels passed the check point quite frequently. The officer that detained him came in and gave him some food to eat as he assured Scotty that the people looking for him will soon be there for him. He sighed and slumped back in the seat. Darkness fell and Scotty received a message from Brianna that let him know that they were headed to Mobilia but were not going to be allowed to communicate with anyone for the night. Soon after the message arrived Scotty got another call. This time it was a known caller ID; it was Annabel.

"Hey Annie..." Scotty said in an unusually soft voice.

"Hey baby. Have you been picked up yet?"
"No. Wait this was your doing? You had them pick me up?"

"Yes Scott, you have no idea what you've gotten yourself involved with honey. I thought you would just go to Arc Vale, finish your performance and head back. I know you love adventure Scotty but what you've gone and involved yourself in, is not something you were going to get yourself out of. You've been marked Scotty and right now, you're as vulnerable as a bird in water." Annabel was worried for Scotty and she had every reason to.

"What do you mean Annie? What's going on?" Scotty was confused, he couldn't see the bigger picture.

"Scotty, just do as your told from this point on will you. You're in a lot more danger than you think and if you think you can magically escape what you've helped the people in Arc Vale know and achieve, you're wrong. You won't get out, not by yourself. I can't explain it right now but you're in safe hands now. I don't know how soon we can meet again. You need to do somethings before you're cleared and free to be the Scotty of Pridosa. I'm sorry baby, I didn't see that you going to Arc Vale was a terrible move but you will be alright. Your friends are being processed they're a little less affected but things aren't well so, just sit tight and you will soon know what's next."

"Wait, Annie are you telling you don't know what's happeining?"

"No, Scott I don't know."

Scotty shook his head. He wasn't shocked but he was less confident because everything he had just gone through was not in the hands of the one person (other Brianna and Kyle) that Scotty could trust. The gravity of the situation sent shivers down his spine and all he could do, was slouch back in the flexible office chair. He exhaled and realized that if what he had just gone through had him asking too many questions then this will definitely not answer them. He leaned back, forcing the back of the chair to bend in the same direction. As his mind wondered to just what could possibly happen, Scotty drifted off into a gentle
sleep but was soon woken up by a sharp pain in his lower back. He startled up arching his back forwards, hoping to move whatever object was making him so uncomfortable so that he could return to his tranquil state. He reached for the object and almost yelped when he realized that the gun that he had been travelling with this whole time was still tucked in. He held onto it for a moment wondering what to do but had no option but to let go when a trio of what appeared to be soldiers in all black uniform walked through the door. They were lightly armed but were menacing to look at,

"You can place the object on the table Mr. Accena. You won't be needing it anymore." One of the men had noticed his arm move frantically upon his entry. Scotty reached for the weapon nervously, got it out and placed it on the table before him. The man tensed his upper lip but Scotty remained silent.

"Do I need to worry about anymore of those Mr. Accena? I ask because we need to go now."

Scotty was startled by what the soldier said.

"You don't need to worry about anymore, this one isn't even mine but where are going?"

The soldier appeared less tense but just as observant as before.

"Good. We are going back to your home Mr. Accena and we need to hurry. The transportation waits for no one."

"But I don't know you and I haven't been told anything about going back home." Scotty wasn't trusting these men one little bit.

"Our names are not important but you can call us as you like. We have been ordered to take you home, the easier you cooperate the better things will be for you. Your choice."

Scotty didn't know whether to put up a fight or not. All he could do was comply. As he stood up he put the phone in his back pocket, making sure that they saw it as he did so. As they walked out of the office Scotty saw the vessel that was waiting for them on the landing port. As they walked to it he noticed the logo
printed on the side of the ship. The letters under the logo were IGMA but Scotty didn't know what they stood for. Soon however, he would.

***

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OLYMPUS AWAKENING -

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l"""Since the inception of this Colony, one thing has remained common; progress. Progress in every way and everywhere. From Olympus to Larkland, from Thaumaturgy to Loxhead and back again. Everything that has brought us this far has kept us going thus far and it will all continue to do so. We have made order out of the chaos that destroyed our livelihood on the planet that is now all but a wasteland and nothing will emerge that will take us back to that state. We cannot allow it, we will not allow it. That is why what has been brewing in Arc Vale must be stopped with an immediate effect.There is no room in Narkal for war and if there are any disputes that must be settled with bloodshed take the battles to the places where blood can flow without staining the soil of this well built community. Take those battles away from Narkal. The council hereby passes judgement that all arms in Arc Vale be laid down before the military lays them down for you. For those that seek further violence step forward and sign with the military or state your claim and your disputes will be relocated for you to satisfy all your violent craves. Narkal was birthed from death and destruction but that is not the fate of this colony....no. Not even if a few selfish indivuals attempt to disrupt the progress achieved thus far. The war in Arc Vale..is over!"

Councilman Karravieno's speech was aired across all mediums, across all districs and the mood in Narkal was tense and stiff. The news had already spread to all the districs in Narkal and it seemed that it didn't sit well with anyone that the details of what had occurred had been kept hidden. For the first time since any public announcements made by the council were made live, there were no names mentioned. Despite the fact that the judgement had been passed, there were no names mentioned on air and that had many listeners wondering just as
to what was going on in Arc Vale. The night was chilly across the Colony but the peace that Narkal had been enjoying for many years was being tested. Not only in Arc Vale but in the homes and businesses of all Narkal dwellers alike. The online buzz was directed to Arc Vale and everyone was trying to get in on what exactly was going on there. The rumours poored in and the opinions scattered to and fro. Amidst the commotion of it all the AllTrack team was busy tracking as much suspicious activity as possible but their hands were even more full when Brianna, Kyle and the soldiers arrived at the AllTrack warehouse. Jorex had been allowed to take a break from the lab that was a few kilometres away from the warehouse so that he could meet the soldiers and the artists and help them settle down. The place was heavily guarded and it was of little surprise after hearing the speech that had been aired.

"Welcome back guys." Jorex spoke to Piettro and the other soldiers as they escorted Brianna and Kyle in.

"Thanks Jorex. Any word on Scotty?" Piettro's question intrigued everyone. Scotty's absence had become somewhat a large anomaly. Brianna and Kyle were probably the most concerned, Their faces pierced Jorex; he wasn't supposed to tell them anything before sitting them down in an interrogation room.

"Look, Scotty isn't here but you will be told about his whereabouts as things unfold but right now, the work to stop the tension in Arc Vale from escalating is our primary objective. Your friend is going to be alright." Jorex hated the fact that he had to keep the information of what was about to happen to Scotty and he hated the fact that his friends were completely clueless as to what he was going to have to endure. Kyle could see that whatever Jorex was hiding wasn't good. He nudged Brianna and hinted that she got in touch with Scotty, she nodded despite knwoing that, that wasn't the correct time to be involved with sending Scotty messages at random, she had to trust Jorex and the AllTrack team.
They all walked into a hallway and were placed into separate interrogation rooms, For the soldiers, this was normal but for Brianna and Kyle, this was by far not normal. They gave each other halfhearted smiles as though to wish each other good luck. The doors were looked and they both sat waiting to be attended to. Brianna took the time to send Scotty a text.

In Mobilia now. At AllTrack waiting for you. What's going on Scott? We're worried. Get in touch ASAP!

A Lady walked in on her sending the text. She was wearing military uniform and was not wearing a friendly face at all.

"You can give me that phone Brianna, external communication must be limited right now, you're not exactly helping unless you follow the rules."

Brianna handed her phone to the lady who got it and left the room only to be followed by another lady with a tray of food. She didn't say anything but just placed the tray on the table and left the room. The silence was intense and uncomfortable for Brianna and Kyle. Though they both weren't in an uncomfortable place, they were far from comfortable. Everything felt so overwhelming for them and they had every reason to feel that way. Meanwhile, the men that had been tranquilized again when they came to consciousness in Grayd at the motel were all fully awake and handcuffed in a holding cell in Mobilia. They were all silent but none of them were looking friendly at all (not like they ever would given their situation). They looked at each other knowing far too well that their mission was all but compromised they all started fiddling with their nostrils but were interrupted by one of the guards.

"Sorry boys, no suicidal actions here, those pills have already been removed from there. Nice piercings though. You have all been allowed one call though, not individually but collectively. Will any of you take the honors?" He said teasingly.

However, they all remained silent and continued to stare at each other. The guard sighed and continued what he was doing on the office computer placed on the desk.

Everything in Arc Vale was still just as tense, Oric had escorted his father out of Arc Vale and he was in Falls View and so was Jordi. The Quantus had gathered at the bar to discuss the way forward was but all that was happening was squabbling about Bill's failure to get the goods from the Fasceda's. The third sun had gone and everything in the night seemed chaotic and unruly despite the streets of Arc Vale remianing fairly peaceful. The two men that went with Scotty to Bridgetown arrived at the Bar to give Bill a full report,

"Where's the boy?" Bill asked frustratedly.

"He was taken away from us by border control. Apparently he has a bone to pick with the authorities." The man said sheepishly.

"And you couldn't even think to contact me?" Bill was fuming. Scotty was not supposed to slip out of his grasp. The man kept quiet as the entire bar froze. The entire equation had come to an abrupt end. The entire plan was flawed. If the Quantus were ahead of the game at first sun, they were far behind when Bill got the news. The tense night turned into a bitter one for the Quantus. All that they had pushed for had gone down the drain. Bill already knew that everything had collapsed and if that wasn't all he needed to know that the war against the Fascedas was over, then absence of the Mercinaries was the final nail. He slouched back in the chair and took a large gulp from his large glass of beer.

"The truth is men, women, ladies and gentlemen that the war is over. The night is done and the fat lady is singing her lungs out." He drank the remaining beer with another large gulp, got up and stumbled to his vehicle. The night across Narkal was fell and it fell with heaviness that many felt dearly but with the night came a revelation that not even Scotty was ready for;

The Pavadis were in Olympus for the gathering of the council. Annabel and Moura had both tagged along to support their father. She was always looking at her phone waiting for Scotty to respond but he never did. It wasn't until the speech was done that she received a text from Scotty;

Miss you loads. I Love you Annie. See you soon. ;-)

She was in the middle of responding when her father came into the room.

"Annie, put your phone down. We need to talk."

She tried to continued but after his vocal gesture she turned the screen off and followed her father into the appartment's living room. He sat her down and called Moura too.

"Look girls, as you know things aren't well in Arc Vale but what's even worse is that your boyfriend has been involved in the whole thing. What you thought was him going to perform was him going to get involved with a few other things too. Now we can't say exactly what but he won't be returning to Paridosa as we thought. Now I know he's important to you Annie and because of that he has to be taken elsewhere for the time being. He's going to leave Narkal." He was tired and disappointed but Annabel was upset.

"What do you mean he's leaving Narkal, where can he possibly go? Can't you just interrogate him? I'm sure he hasn't done anything wrong, maybe he was just in the wrong place at the wrong time."

"Look Annie, he's going to Earth with a group of soldiers. He has to learn that if money is what he needs there are better ways of earning it. So he's being taken
to Earth so he can earn the money he needs. That's better than the punishment he would've gotten Annie. That's the council being fair to you, to us, to Scotty and his friends. You know I don't like your relationship but because you're everything like your mother I can only do what I can to keep him safe. So he must go. It's only a short while but when he's back. A lot has to change and if you can't oversee that, we're risking a lot more than your relationship by continuing to support you. He has to go now Annie. Give him some time. He needs it and so do you." Mr. Pavadi left Moura and Annie in the living room and went to his room. Everything about him was depressing but he wasn't complaining about work, he just needed some rest. Annie reached for her phone before Moura could talk her out of talking to Scotty. She sent him a text knowing well that this could be the last time that they would talk to each other.

Scotty was strapped in one of the air ship's passenger chairs as it took off. He felt the tension and the excitement of heading back home. The fact that he had lost the deal with Bill was stressing him out until he convinced himself that maybe it was for the best. He sighed and closed his eyes but opened them when his phone vibrated. The airship took off slowly and Scotty read the message that Annabel had sent him as it did so.

Scotty baby, you're not coming home. Don't be mad or silly. You were supposed to be punished (criminally) but instead you have to go to Earth to earn your freedom and some pay. I will wait for you so just come back to me when you're done okay? I love you more. See you soon. ;-)

Annabel

The moment Scotty put his phone away, his heart sank. He was looking forward to seeing Annabel and his friends again. All that was just a distant memory now. He could feel the vessel shift from normal flight into intergalactic travel speed. Narkal was all but a tiny blip in the cosmos now; a memory to be returned to one day. The vessel wasn't his alone though. There were a few soldiers and some other individuals being transported to earth. They all looked rather menacing and uninviting. If it wasn't for their extra restraints, Scotty would never have easily agreed to be in the same cabin with them (not that he had much of a choice to begin with). One of the soldiers stood up as the vessel dropped out of intergalactic speed;

"Alright felons, the instructions are clear you work your post until your time is due. For some of you it's a one way trip. There's no returning and that means you won't be working with those that will be. When the ship lands on earth, you stay in a single file while you get suited up and posted. Until then sit back and relax." She turned round and strapped into her seat. The vessel came to a hovering halt as it rested on a metallic base. What Scotty thought was earth proved to not be so. Two soldiers got up and left the vessel. Clattering could be heard in the distance that sounded like a metal works plant. The sounds were all too familiar to Scotty as once upon a time he and Kyle were working for a smelter what also had a section where some of the metals were moulded and worked on. Though in Narkal it was a lot less noisy, here he could tell that there was a lot more hammering, drilling and bolting going on. His ears were peeled and as one of the soldiers shouted out, the response startled everyone on the ship. The soldier was asking for the crates with supplies for the trip to earth to be brought closer to the vessel but was answered with insults and threatening
shots were fired. Everyone in the ship ducked as though they knew where the shots would come from. The two rushed in and shut the gateway behind them.

"Let's get out of here. There's gonna be a coup! Send a message to Mobilia and get us out of here." The lady that spoke to the prisoners earlier shouted the instructions to the cabin operators as the ship ascended swiftly. The pilots fiddled with the control panel and soon they were flying away from their stop.

"Captain, your through to Mobilia." Spoke one of the pilots.

"This is Captain Lano. The pick up in a Bovamo was unsuccessful. The locals have retaliated as feared and are hostile. Goods were not picked up but we shall proceed to earth base 6." Captain Lano was interrupted when the ship was hit whilst being prepared to switch to intergalactic speed.

"Captain, we're hit! The IGS Drive has already been activated. We're at the mercy of the spin m'am!" As the pilot spoke the vessel sped up and started to spin violently in a continuous spin throwing Captain Lano to the floor. The images in Scotty's eyes soon became one big blur that soon forced him into a dizzy unconscious state. The vessel, heading to earth spun speedily and was clear of the vessels that pursued it too. The ship was silent as everyone on board was unconscious. Their fates were now in the Landing's hands.

The AllTrack's Intergalactic Military base team was stunned. The radio devices were still playing the feed as they could hear the ship whiz and whirl with no one to respond to the controller's efforts to communicate.
"What do we do sir?" Asked the controller.

"We wait for them to land. In the mean time send a message to HQ in Olympus, tell them about the situation in Bovamo. If things are that bad, we cannot allow any complaisancey to linger here. And keep an ear on that connection, their lives are in the balance now." The officer in charge was tired but the turn out of events was traumatizing enough to eliminate all wariness from him. A standby team was assembled incase the vessel hurtling towards earth was in some kind of trouble. His gut urged him to send the backup team immediately but that too was a risk. The coup could've already begun, maybe the vessel was being pursued. He paused and thought for a few moments as the team faced him at attention. Their eyes cold and focused, their breathing steady but heavy.

"Bovamo, has rebelled. The specifics are yet to be confirmed. Your trip is to make sure IMV-4's status is confirmed. As we speak, the ship has spun out of control but is still on the trajectory towards earth. Surrounding scanners are down so it's hard to tell if they're being pursued. You will not land on base 6 but on base 7. You keep a low profile and watch your backs. This attack is a complete surprise, Bovamo has caught us sleeping so it's time to wake up and turn their lights off. Feedback must remain constant, carry extra ammo and extra batteries. You travel now soldiers and you travel well. Dismissed."

The orders were given and within minutes the IGV-9 was taking off.

Annabel was finally catching some sleep when she heard her father get up and start speaking to someone sternly. It was bad news and she knew it. Her worst
fear of Scotty being involved in air crash or worse was dark enough to pin her to her bed. The thoughts wondered through her mind and practically paralyzed her. Her father wasn't getting off the phone, something was very wrong. The thoughts on her mind darkened as Scotty's absence loomed over the bed she slept in like a haunting ghost, eating at her guilt and regurgitating it back as fear. She was frozen. The tension intensified when Mourie walked into her room, turned on the light and didn't smile. Her face wore danger and that was the last thing Annabel needed.

"The Vessel Scotty was being transported to earth in, is spinning as it crashes down. Everyone on the vessel is either dead or unconscious. I don't know about you but what worries me most, is that there's a coup ....... In Bovamo. We both know that's not a coincidence Annie."

"Look I didn't know they were going to use that root. You're making it look like I sent him there." Annabel was offended but that didn't move Mourie. The silence grew intense as the pair stared at each other but was cut short when they were called to the living room by their father.

"Look ladies. Things are intensifying. The coup in Bovamo needs investigating and the tension in Arc Vale needs softening. Now I know you two haven't always been good girls but I also know you're both not ignorant. What's going on can affect more than we know, infact it can potentially end all that we know. Annie, tell me about your ex. You never quite told me how and why he left Narkal so mysteriously. I know his hands had ties with the Quantus and the metal works industry. What happened?"

Annie's guilt flooded the room like a Tsunami. Even she knew she was careless for letting Scotty go, knowing all too well that Vitt and his family got a hold of Bovamo after being exhiled from Narkal. Vitt was passionate and he was the only child. Her being with Scotty angered him everyday but that wasn't all; his family were in charge of providing the materials that kept the metal works in the upper part of Paridosa running. His anger drove him to forming a formidable gang that terrorised the streets of Arc Vale for both the Quantus and the Fascedas. This was until the Quantus tried to seize the transportation business that supplied the metal works. Vitt's gang was apprehended and his family was banned after the military and the Fascedas intervened. Upon leaving Vitt, his family and his gang left Arc Vale on a transportation ship to Bovamo without the council knowing. Annabel however, was informed by Vitt himself that when he built his empire on Bovamo, he would come to Narkal and make her his Queen upon taking her away. Back then she thought of his words as a silly fantasy but that appeared to now not be so. Her father shook his head.

"It's been years Annie. Years. You've seen the imports from Bovamo. You've looked at the manifests, the countless hours the accounts offices have spent processing just how much Bovamo has contributed to Narkal's growth. All under your watchful eye as you paraded as Scotty's lover. You made us believe in him. The entire council vouched for him and had done it again but when you had the option of deciding his fate, you allowed him to leave when there were alternatives right here on Narkal. I know you never meant for the coup but seeing how you handled Scotty's case, I'm beginning to think behind those eyes is a smiling face. Waiting for your Prince charming to rescue you. If he does, then lucky you but if he gets in my way of maintaining the peace in Narkal ... Annie, I will put him down. I will put him and that silly fantasy of you and him getting back together down. Now go back to your room. Mourie pack up, you're coming with me. This one is on lockdown!"

Annie tried to plead her case but it was of little use. Her father had already stood up to go get ready. Mourie patted Annabel on her back as her face sunk into her hands. Annabel was wrong for not letting their father know about Vitt but now the present was more important.

"Annie, go sleep. There's nothing else you can do. It'll be first sun soon." Mourie started to walk towards her room when Annabel burst out crying. Her cries were muffled by her hands.

"I've killed them Mourie, I've killed them both! All it took was for me to say no twice and none of this would have happened."

"Annie. Go to sleep. You made the decisions you had to make. Things have played out as they were meant to play out. If you think I'm happy to leave the room right now, think again. Enjoy being young Annie, before you end up in dad's shoes. He could lose a lot more than you can even imagine and if things don't get better ... By third sun he could lose us both too ... No matter what he says." Mourie walked away, leaving the room in a heavy silence. She was right though, if things didn't get better things were about to get so much worse. If anyone in Narkal was in danger, Scotty was too.

***

