The Grimm

by Marutectz552

Fighting for what one believes in is nothing new, fighting for people is laughable but one para-human simply did what had to be done. Whether villain, or hero is applied is only relative to a man who holds his word. Seven years is plenty of time, but when fighting for people who laugh and demonize those who remained quiet? It is all smiles and laughs until actions overshadow words.

4. Chapter III

Worm

The Grimm

Chapter III

Sitting mainly in front of a desk while various work went along outside in muffed intervals did Grimm find himself smiling politely, "John Smith?" Nodding in accordance to an alias which served it's usage despite the man reading off a resume, "Harry's put a good word in for you, mister Smith. I've known the man for nearly fifteen years, good man." Dressed up in somewhat business oriented clothing involving pants, a tie and dark red cuffed long sleeves did said para-human reply modestly in admitting, "He's an absolute hard ass, but I only asked if you'd have me work shifts available since it pays better."

The plague only a desk overflowing with paperwork only revealed in clear bold letters. Danny Hebert, Senior Management. Shifting through an almost thinned out resume recently edited, cleared up and made partially respective did enough favor when an older man chewed it over, "You do realize I taught him how to work, son. Hard ass don't come close on my bad days." Grimm shrugged plainly pointing out with a wry grin, "Don't mean I can't learn from the best around. Harry's good, but I'm doing this for myself and a friend who needs to get off his ass. Working long nights, I can do it and as long I can enjoy one day on my weekend, I never complain."

Fading hairline aside did the man rub a scalp musingly, "We work twelve hour days, six to six. If you show up, bust your ass and never be late on Friday, Sunday and Tuesday?" He offered realistically as Grimm found that suitable given most times going out involved Saturday without a doubt. Plus it'd be easier to ignore Scorch's painful ass of an existence sleeping away most days. Bitch hasn't stopped texting me about updates involving that meeting, I read it once and left it at that! And last night's stunt fucking pissed me off, real damned good.

Every damned media outlet had not ceased playing footage from aerial overviews of a fire molding into single word. Grimm. Scorch's damned sense of humor in using his past exploits came full into biting him squarely in the literal ass. Outlets were furiously digging up old newsreels seven years ago, it'd been buried for so long that many didn't have a clue as to who, or what was associated with that word given it'd been reopened. Professor Henry is going to get rich off me, again. Son of a bitch, if I see that bastard's face try to psychologically bullshit people about me personally, I'll be tempted to pay him a fucking visit when I have time off.

Other than that he'd stayed away from television entirely in favor of getting himself and Rascal some useful cover, "Sounds good, Danny." Offering a hand which they shook on firmly giving some exception given he had a worker's grip, "Harry's place doesn't do full time, but I'm hoping my luck will change. Should I forward you my friends resume, I can get him in tomorrow easily if you have time open?" He offered genuinely curious trying to not sound too hopeful yet apparently workers were needed especially after last night's fire show.

"It'd be best if you do, I had three people hand in their resignations because of what happened down the street from us." Hebert's face visibly grimaced as if dealing with scheduling issues making Grimm slightly cheer for having something positive going right for once. Guess you're good for something after all, woman. Getting me a job, away from you and Rascal starts earning a paycheck instead of mooching my place's food. But speaking about me...

Glancing towards smouldering columns of smoke from a near sunken cargo ship, "Crazy stuff! Thought capes were just heroes and villains you'd hear about, I mean is that technically normal for this city?" Guessing modestly made Danny shake his head out of sheer exhaustion, "More often, or not you'll find Brockton's seen better days, son. Keep your nose clean, it'll work out and be prepared for paperwork since we're unionized. If you make it a few months, I'll have higher hopes for both that and you finding your rhythm eventually."

Obviously not getting anymore than that made Grimm nod while getting up, "Understood, sir. When do I report in for work?" Smiling more so happy to enjoy a no non-sense attitude did his newest boss make it clear, "Next Friday, John. Gives you time for you and Harry to hash out problems, other than that enjoy a weekend. We'll discuss future days on and off, if you cut it here first off." There wasn't any hope save for earning what little good in working did to most people. Grimm again nodded before leaving out of a door past machinery where men and vehicle loaded up product, or whatever had been shipped for exportation.

Busy place, I might need ear plugs! Whistling quite overwhelmed before heading out an employee entrance towards a parking lot where ambulances and fire-trucks kept coming, or going from what had happened twelve hours earlier. Smoke lingered as thin coating of ash remained in places not touched due to winds carrying it all over a city's area. Overall it'd been a nice drive despite being stuck in traffic for an hour, or two due to emergency vehicles hauling away bodies and maintaining an inferno dying off naturally.

Getting into a parked truck did one pocketed phone start vibrating much to his irritation, "Great!" Swiping upwards answering an unknown number yet he knew who exactly was calling, "Didn't I tell you not to call me on a work day, woman?" Apparently that advice had been ignored when Scorch's voice smoothly retorted, "You're getting a new job, John. I'm sure you'll have plenty of time this week for work related opportunities, but I'm afraid I have some interesting news regarding your scheduled meeting tonight."

Grimm literally slammed backward groaning loudly not even trying to fight off a migraine when he tensely bit out, "Are you serious? Tonight!" Scorch's quiet laughter didn't bother hiding she'd gotten off on making him aggravated as a habit, "Yes, tonight John. Kaiser doesn't waste time unless he's certain about getting progress, if you don't lose value to our group. And besides shouldn't you be pleased, a little Thinker gets to have a clean slate without as much as him getting dirty by those who are his betters?"

Rolling eyes while tapping a steering wheel warding off age old rhetoric that never ceased to sound generic, "Rascal and I's business is simply our business, woman. You and your boss's business is your own, so don't forget that much. Casual, dress or gear?" Bypassing any urge to spit out a few choice words followed her revealing, "Coil never reveals himself unless he chooses too, John. Grimm, Kaiser and Coil eyes only at your usual place before go, we'll be there in person, it's not exactly a simple meet and greet after all like during at a certain bar."

Hazel eyes narrowed remembering exactly how that night had gone down almost too perfectly. Friend invites me out, we go to a place checking out reviews and said friend blurts out, 'Know a para-human once calling himself Grimm.', oh yeah what a great fucking subtle topic to mention. Unfortunately someone had been listening which devolved into a group meeting up, talking and debating politics relatively in a civil social gathering. Rarely did their unique topics get touched upon, or were blown off in favor of mundane bread and circus events akin to sports rigged entertainment. And in that moment Scorch had been chatting along with them.

Drinks get heavier and heavier with himself getting slightly buzzed to a point where later on said woman approaches. Less than wary proceeded to ask for a dance, drink and number which should have sent red flags raising immediately. Not exactly a ladies man, Christ I should have high tailed it out of there moment 'Grimm' came up. Barely anyone outside home knew about it, or rather cared about it since that point years ago. And in two nights Grimm's name had reappeared far more in a polarized environment as opposed to when nearly a decade ago it'd been different.

Things no longer stayed where they had a chance to have people talk about what had to be said. And personally it'd been momentum going against them again, "I'll see you tonight then." Jawline twitching rigidly did little to ward off imagining a metallic stake through her face when she hardly seemed surprised, "Enjoy your afternoon, John. We'll go out for coffee soon enough, Kaiser wanted some additional details for future endeavors before Coil gets a chance. It's not often you find clear cut help, or do you disagree?"

Smiling in response to some sort of potential money being offered wasn't too awful, "Rascal's debt comes first, Scorch. Let's see how much it'll take to fuck your wallets, now good bye!" Clicking a red phone symbol before smashing his forehead onto an innocent leather steering wheel gave much needed quietness. Wind from off an ocean swept into his truck's cabin giving off a deceptive enjoyable day considering charred rubble smouldered not even a block away. More reminders of what it'd cost for doing what few dared trying to imagine.

God, I can only imagine if I were an alcoholic despite being surrounded by them. Reaching over pulling up a near empty pack of cigars did he light one up naturally, "But we all choose our poison's, don't we?" Looking outside seeing men wearing hard-hats driving fork lights, or operating machinery meant for large bulks of shipping materials gave off a sense of normalcy. Shame I never could hold a job before being Grimm, I just couldn't stand doing the same old shit day after day and now I wish I'd learned how too.

Lazily starting up a truck which rumbled accordingly made him smile cynically aware, "But there's no going back once you stand by your word, good or bad. Even if it kills me, everyday." Inhaling deeply before exhaling through nostrils sampled spicy wooden and burning in making his eyes close contently when getting moving. Pulling out of a parking spot just before slamming brakes when some random kid jumped out literally in a near panic when he barked out, "Fucking Christ, girl! Look up when you walk, or I'd have killed you!"

Raising a hand out of sheer irritation when some teenager looked down guiltily didn't help him in any way, "Just watch yourself, alright?" She had long hair while wearing thin like glasses but continued walking towards a working area, Grimm just shook his head wondering whether younger people had common sense presently. Man, I'm getting tired of surprises today. Bad enough I had a busy couple of days, but getting screwed for hitting some kid? I'd be locked up faster than screaming for legal assistance, if they got my prints.

Pulling out a main street while taking another puff relaxed him relatively, "Time to get some other stuff going, Rascal. You and I got some brain storming to do, so better pray." Stopping at red light while grinning rather crookedly, "Or else I'll reconsider being the nice guy. All I'm doing is finishing last and I'm getting really sick of pretending it doesn't bother the ever living shit out of me." It'd be a good day until being called back to another place he'd only wish never existed. But sometimes rolling with punches only gave a man incentive to throw one back eventually.

---

Once again Grimm arrived early while being let in ignoring stares of bitter disbelief, grudging respect and overall general indifference. A few stared trying as if he were some kind of a puzzle, an irony considering he himself hated solving puzzles genuinely. Guy does what he's told to do, and everyone loses their minds. Or is it because I act too kind? Ignoring that entirely while seeing less people tonight indicated whatever Empire did last night, it'd lay low and given no para-humans present meant it'd have been an off day.

"Mongrel." Inhaling slightly on a half done cigar did he turn seeing the snowman make an appearance while wearing casual getup, "Sup!" He offered tipping a camouflage cap loosely making another sneer appear, "Didn't you hear yet?" Alabaster's smug smirk grew when throwing over a newspaper making said para-human read headlines. On Brockton Bay's paper read in bold lettering with a picture of himself half frazzled due to some police cruiser's released footage of him staring up in clear gear, "They're calling me, 'The Grimm?' Sounds charming, I almost feel loved again."

The albino man's smile refused to die considering he outright insulted him again, "You're famous for hiding again, mongrel. All I hear is, 'Grimm monster', or some bullshit when you're just a gutless fuck who had his chance to do our people good...but fell flat." An end burned leisurely while a smile appeared in response finally due to someone provoking what had been boiling. Okay fuck face, let's play ball. Grimm's coming out for fun, I'm not in the mood for playing nice guy.

Chuckling good naturally while nodding along, "True, but guess what snowman?" Alabaster shot back all too naturally, "What? I hurt your feelings, Mo..." Piping exploded outward from walls and from above a ceiling an caved inwards when tendrils, stakes and numerous pieces sent an albino bellowing when crimson liquid started flowing. Yet he lived barely in heaving out shallow rapid breathes, "No, I just want to break your fucking jaw. Sound good?"

Shouts came around both ends of a hall whose walls broke inward leaving only an albino and himself free from interruption. Now, just go to sleep...oh, why isn't he dead? Blinking away disbelief when the man suddenly grinned, "Not bad, Mongrel! Not bad at all, but you think this is bad?" All along flesh immediately regressed back into place as a man brutishly pull himself free while cracking joints and limbs all too loosely. What the shit is this bull? Usually everyone stops breathing, but who just pulls themselves from getting staked in their chest?

Alabaster's face turned into a leer that promised more than just fist fighting, "What? We ain't human, mongrel so take a hint. We're capes, we're inhuman and we all have our little ways to make us live the life, right?" Stakes got smashed aside in clear displays of strength even when Grimm inhaled trying to figure a more creative way involving decapitation. Let's find out if cutting your head off works, I needed new ways to be creative anyway. Bring it on, snowman.

Yet before either of them took another step an immense heat surged behind fiercely melting an open pathway. Both para-humans looked to an incredibly pissed off Scorch who waved a hand sharply in sending molten droplets into sinking holes, "Are you two finished, or do I have to end it?" Kaiser's blood family relative allowed flames forming along surfaces slithering to a point it'd gotten extremely uncomfortable. Grimm almost coughed trying to breathe through thinning oxygen that reminded him of times higher up on mountains, "Well?"

"Just having a bit of fun with this mongrel, boss lady." Snowman stated nonchalantly backing off mainly out of respect leaving blue eyes trailing over towards the other para-human, "Yeah, what he said." Exhaling smoke despite sweating along his back due blistering heat simmering around in a condensed hallway before metal material returned to original positions. Sporadic squealing and groaning soon left only stone, or pieces of loose wiring exposed yet almost everything went back into place leaving Scorch to turn down a potential inferno. You just got saved from being my personal voodoo doll snowman, I'll remember your bullshit for another day.

Moving past while deliberately bumping into him didn't lessen metallic pillars straining audibly despite an enforced tolerance. It didn't take long for his supposed warden to hiss out, "What in the hell were you thinking? Are you trying to dig yourself a hole, or a grave?" Hazel eyes rolled naturally when not even humoring to answer outright, "Both. Snowman's and your own, woman! I think you should know playing nice guy gets old after a bit, don't ya agree?"

Roughly kicking a door open into an empty locker room hardly improved an internal rage burning after years of being funneled. Bitch thinks I'm playing, but not tonight. Of course she followed while in her outfit to laugh coldly unimpressed, "You think you're dangerous, John? Only to people who aren't capes, but to most of us? You got a long way to go, if anyone got their hands on you then you'd be dead faster than acting tough." She brutally tore into what he'd assumed otherwise, if only barely snorting in response finding it all earnest.

"Stop trying to fish for a kiss, or something." He got right up into her face looking down launching a fist where it landed on a locker effectively entrapping Scorch, "I have my limits of tolerating shit, woman. And do you remember last time I had enough? Couple hundred people ended up making national headlines, I think without a doubt Empire would be just as welcomed or cheered, don't ya think?" One of few relatives who'd Kaiser apparently trusted leaned within inches of a cigar's end that burned brighter due to shimmering air getting dangerously ignited.

Despite lines being crossed for either para-human who'd potential inflict grievous injury did an approving voice ask, "Isn't this what you wanted, John?" The fake name which reminded him in not being able to use an original, or risked further scrutiny from those who'd dig into who possibly was Grimm. Probably already doing it, Thinkers, human and everyone else's mother at this point. Putting my name out there like that, I'm just waiting for my face to be plastered all over every T.V and getting people I'd known screwed further.

Curling fingers which rattled metallic doors on a locker it'd been pressing against, "You damn well know there's a difference between making points and shafting someone. You really made me out to be some arsonist, I'm not exactly a fan of fire works or was that whole spectacle your idea for advertisement?" Scorch's facial expression bordered onto coy indifference before lightly moving under an arm to remind him knowingly, "It's all apart of an image, John. You can be a hypocrite all you want, but once you stepped out from that 'safe' space you call normalcy? You've stepped into the real world where you see no one can be trusted, no one will 'rise' as you've hoped and as such you'll be stuck being a punching bag for government powers who'll lap up every little...act."

Grimm grinned bitterly aware of far smarter people twisting messages to make it appear as if they were innocent victims, "Uncle Sam loves his white hat, woman. Think anyone with a brain can't think it, I'm just a kick starter for people finally to get that idea it's good to fight back. It's natural, but you want me to be a walking case of mass destruction and mass murder for the sheer joy of it. Stop playing psychologist when I know what makes me tick, alright?" Offering to open up a locker where gear and weapons remained untouched despite harboring paranoia someone would screwed with something out of peer pressure.

"Someone's got to do it, Grimm." Scorch lightly mentioned leaning nearby curling another smile to make him grit teeth, "Why not you? You clearly know when, where and what to do in order for that idealist inside you to be proven right, so why not be what needs to kick start it?" Her mouth started wane on his patience given this debating in itself was not what he'd ever willingly humor, if anything it'd make him already humor doing similar acts. Once had been enough, once to show that even those who'd been silent their whole lives had enough and yet smarter people had hijacked that message to forever justify they were right for trampling over them. Either in the name of profits, moral supremacy ironically and dismantling what made them a nation for progressive utopia.

Keep pushing it, bitch, Slipping out of clothing to shoot back, "Ladies first, I'm sure your outfit will just have people line up. Least one of us can be considered a lesser evil, or should I think otherwise?" Referring to Empire's supposed ideology didn't do her any favors, or even make him considering it to actually be practical. They were far more stuck than he'd ever be, at least he could walk around in public albeit with less chances of being assaulted, or strung up. Presently those who spoke out were harassed, used as scapegoats for local and state assets to assist those being useful idiots and playing victim for an image of moral superiority.

"You can use old news all you want, Grimm." Blue eyes sparkled literally underneath dimming lights when she made way to leave, "But the fact is? Our people are being crushed by forces within, beyond and you're one of a few who finally...did something." Hazel orbs stared right towards a hanging balaclava where one small mirror cracked reflected his own flat expression. Kaiser's cousin clearly loved fucking with people, or maybe he'd been too susceptible after unable to resist getting last words even if he'd been beaten at step one.

Funny, a person who I considered my best friend said something similar. Difference was at least he'd known why I did it, but like I told him. Changing into clothing while rolling wrists to hear them crack out of natural stress, "Everyone expects me to want more. To follow a script, but I'm a terrible choice to do anything except following." Scorch's silence indicated she'd left moments ago leaving him alone to stew with an internal frustration that'd been growing for years again. It'd reached points nearly to what finally made it all happen seven years ago, it'd be the same song and dance despite forcing people to finally look at themselves.

"Just another day." Commenting mainly of out familiarity did bring some sense directing himself to live with it, "Might as well focus on whoever this Coil guy is! Rascal and I get a clean slate, new identities and go from there like I stated. Nothing more, or nothing less." Adjusting a vest while cracking his back to feel bone pop felt incredibly relieving. Too much stress often aged people prematurely, he'd felt fare older than being in his mid twenties at this point.

Gonna have to pick up a new pack of ammo from some local gun shop, it's not cheap buying rounds when lacking income. Securing both pistol and shotgun respectively, Grimm made his way out of a locker room puffing out smoke lazily again. Heading to where usually other para-humans had congregated only revealed unmarked vehicles covered by tarps, or few people who sat on some couch near a corner looking up a flat screen television. Overall a lack of activity meant it'd be an off day without too much issue.

"In other news, PRT sources have confirmed with channel twelve correspondents that events for these several nights will garner a response to this notorious string of deadly violence. Twenty seven Brockton Police officers lost their lives when responding to calls related to gang shoot outs, ' It is utterly horrifying that this 'Grimm' is flaunting his, or her power in such monstrous manners that bring back memories of times when cape activity nearly caused untold amounts of grief, anger and loss to our great community.'" Grimm stared watching images of covered up bodies being loaded onto ambulances with crowds of people holding up signs, protesting and calling for even far more extreme measures. Leaning against an entirely covered car did he see an image of himself staring at some hovering police cruiser's camera, "This is the best image we've acquired to showcase Brockton Bay's latest cape's arrival on our streets. If you see any individual wearing similar clothing, call PRT or Police hotlines immediately to put this monster behind bars. Nearly sixty lives have been lost in this rampage.'"

Already they were causing mass hysteria with fear mongering in calling criminal activity as some mindless rampage involving innocents. The man watched images of carefully doctored interviews involving professor Henry again, "I cannot stress enough, whoever is using the name of 'Grimm' is a mentally ill para-human whose disillusion to an original event is cascading downward into bringing innocents people, it will inevitably occur. It's not the original, I'd stake enough considering that event had been a lone wolf despite witnessing such horrors on that day. Political violence is not as easy to define, but this is simply motive of a self-destructive individual whose rage will need to be curbed. Perhaps PRT specialists who theorize in cape psychology could make such a person be an upstanding, reformed and asset against other villains who cannot be reasoned with.'

Wryly smirking to find some pride in being mistaken for a copy cat certainly made things smoother, "Thanks for your opinion, jackass." More headlines appeared with an inferno of a cargo ship embolden by one word brought upon some PRT official who seemed quite relaxed, "Does the Protectorate have any information for public safety and assurance of this cape calling his, or herself 'Grimm', Director Piggot? Surely the Wards, or those who've made names for themselves will be able to reassure Brockton Bay's various communities who hold them all in high regards, or is right to assume your organization is monitoring these events?"

Some obese looking woman who looked more akin to an overweight dyke made Grimm snicker as grey eyes hardly appeared unnerved, "I cannot confirm, or deny as per Protectorate policy under para-human laws to reveal specifics. But we are monitoring this latest cape, it's a reality we often contend with when new generations arise, monsters tend to appear and we cannot hope to predict which will end up on a productive, fortunate and paragons of a side further placing ourselves as enforcers of the rule of law.' The reporter asked a question on recorded broadcasts pertaining to theories as to who, or what Grimm represented. Several watching inside that open area including said man himself were curiously for various reasons aside.

"Originally we had information pertaining to an original, 'Grimm' whose actions began what protocols in safe guarding our members of legislation, if so I can speak freely to confirm...it is a he, the original despite to have presently regardless of personal vendettas. He was confirmed male based on Thinker deductions, presently this copy cat has no motive other than vile beliefs, cape and monster are objective when actions cannot be overlooked." From there more legislation footage from Federal Hill in the capitol followed senators, representatives and other officials who weighed on Brockton's recent wave of cape violence offering only hollowed promises of monitoring situations. It literally only made headlines because nothing important had been coming up at all, or it'd been too quiet lately given such coverage exploded.

"They got my good side, who knew?" Snickering for personal humor's sake he continued viewing said broadcast, "Protesters marched out in Brockton City Hall earlier today, 'Damn capes! Unmask them all, lock them up!' Anti-cape anti sentiment has been rising steadily with groups for and against legislation dehumanizing active known heroes, or wanted villains. But with projected para-human emergencies growing steadily, it is uncertain whether political officials in both parties will consider bills until further projections solidify demographic alterations. Democrat majority leader spoke to reporters after one session of congressional hearings, 'We must think of our minority communities under are besieged by extremist racists, attacks on minorities have been prudent ever since bills were passed combating lingering old way, for we are all Americans who stand by in the name of equality, liberty and rights.'" Grimm rolled both eyes due to hearing that kind rhetoric which had all but alienated a silent majority who'd been said nation's population, not excluding global he and anyone with paled skin were the damned minority in all certainty.

One of several people watching threw a half full beer at said image harshly cheering, "Yeah, I wonder who does all that evil racist shit? Damned gas lighting." Nodding quietly in agreement did media outlets cycle through images of again what had happened earlier that night. Between yesterday and today they'd be hearing about it for quite some time. Blame white people for all of America's problems, instant glory and agreement since it's all about power of hating yourselves. Glad to know Endbringers were just road blocks, I can't wait until another one hits us, or Europe wherever it'll slaughter us all until extinction.

Boots clacking against a tiled floor drew his eyes to where Scorch's smug expression gave enough off to see where she'd been hinting, "Happy?" Haughty features weren't put off by his scowl when leaning next to where he rested trying to simmer down, "What did you expect, John? Some knight to stop blaming our people? You're a pawn in their games, a catalyst in hindsight." She explained without even considering it'd dug into his heart secretly fearing that unvoiced truth. It'd always been expected, it just flat out grounded on beliefs he'd been keeping firm too for years and it never got old to doubt oneself more effectively.

"You going to shut up if I offer a cigar, or what?" Turning away while mechanically tossing the last one in his pack who she took easily. Handing off a lighter while closing both eyes mainly in preparation for getting himself and Rascal clean slates enforced civility finally, "How good is Coil? And does your cousin trust him enough? No bullshit, please."

Scorch hummed momentarily taking in a spiced flavor rather appreciatively, "As far as you trust yourself, John. Pay him enough, he'll have you in another country." Handing back a lighter into an opened palm which got pocketed in a pant leg, "Great! And he's a cape?" She nodded knowing barely enough to smile deceptively coy, "Coil's probably one of the most dangerous men, aside from Kaiser and no one knows him other than those who work for him. We've tried extorting him once, but it never went any where."

That certainly wasn't just peachy and cheerful news giving little to ward off anxiety. Starting to see why no one looks into cape underground, it's practically a felony to criticize PRT, or Protectorate policy without getting ridiculed. Thinkers from what he knew hounded any attempt, agencies both para-human and human worked together jointly in crushing dissent where ever it cropped up. And lately amendments to their original rights were up for debate, a not so pleasant decline for supposed security given his exploits in Brockton Bay already.

"Glad to know the mob is in town, what else?" Joking mainly to loosen up made blue eyes crinkle visibly despite wary warnings aside, "Don't treat him informally, or else you'll be leaving town with your face revealed. Kaiser and Coil have agreements in place, so don't push it." Shrugging innocently while taking advice was only naturally inclined, it'd be business first and leaving it at that. Wouldn't be too difficult shutting up since it was akin to an interview, if he was lucky enough.

At least things are going smoothly, I'm tired of playing hide and seek with her. Whoever Coil is, I'm just glad her attitude changed enough. From upfront came heavy foot steps causing everyone including Scorch to stand upright save for himself. The hell sounds like a tank? It almost sounds like someone's wearing...

Coming into view old salutes of iconic motions dipped over chests when a crown stood out curling and ending from where ears into jagged angles. Empire's symbol had been embed into stretching across an armored front weaving with dull red along a bicep and continued over shoulders akin to some draped cape. Metallic silver stood out when a helm more mixed of medieval times where symbols of rebirth were ingrained around facial cheeks, "Cousin." Scorch lowered her gaze despite smiling fondly when Grimm blinked realizing that Kaiser stood in front of them, "How was the drive?"

Armored legs carried Empire's figurehead where his voice matched confidently while placing a hand onto her shoulder warmly, "It's always good to see family, even if you and I barely get along. Coil's scheduling is rather tight lately, so we have to move it along." Brilliant blue eyes were barely visible yet similarly glinted to steel when addressing him rather neutrally, "You better appreciate that Thinker of yours, Grimm. But I can overlook it, if you behave yourself...I have ears and eyes everywhere in my organization mongrel."

Exhaling smoke in response while baring teeth in raising a hand meekly, "Guilty as charged! Do you want cash, or check?" An armored Max Anders came within inches of a burning cigar when his own reflection stared back where hazel eyes met with practiced habit. Think you're scary pal, I'd say your cousin one ups you in all honesty. Though maybe playing tough is a little difficult, but I'll hold my ground even against you if I can.

Around them an armor started to shift as an entire car rattled mainly in a stand off, "You're not as confident when someone knows what they're capable in doing, John. Knock your shit off, or I'll personally rearrange your head off a spine." Whistling sharply while a car ceased to rattle as armor ceased shimmering, "Whatever you say, pal. I'm just trying to get by, it ain't worth a dick measuring contest in front of your friends. After all, I gave my word I'd pay off Rascal's debt and seeing who can form stakes faster is...unproductive, right?"

Kaiser seemingly smiled pleasantly stepping away intoning quite brazenly, "Know your place, Grimm and maybe you'll actually be worth something. It's bad business when your word is only worth as much as you work for it, I like that much." Apparently being considered useful warranted some measure of being tolerant, if only from a bunch of capes who'd found him repulsive. I even showered today, so I can't be that bad? Whatever pal, as long as you keep them from trying to piss on my day then I'll be a good little boy.

Scorch remained oddly tight lipped not willing to say anything to her blood cousin, "You've made headlines, Empire's hasn't been tied despite two successful attempts in uprooting us. As long as you do your job, we'll discuss employment." Grimm's eyebrows shot to their literal height when laughing out negatively, "Let's not! Do you know how irritating it is dealing with an image, I'd rather not discuss anything until what goes down today is finished. No offense, I'm pretty sure our tolerance is reaching an end here."

Gesturing towards a blond who had similar eyes probably marking them as indeed relatable, "Your cousin is quite a pain in my ass, I don't need influences that just happen to follow me around. I work for a living outside being this little gathering of friends and family." Flicking ash onto a tiled floor while absently rubbing said pile underneath boots, "As I've said literally day after day, 'no thanks' and goodbye having me running around for Empire. Is it that hard when someone says no, or what huh?" Slowly but surely Kaiser's helmet turned towards him where eyes barely were visibly as armor shimmered again leaving it not as a potential career decision.

"Who would you turn too? The PRT?" Grimm's mouth curled while spitting out a snark grunt, "When hell freezes over, or I'm singing kumbaya high on acid. Do you think I'm desperate, or stupid falling for this scam?" Blowing out bluish smoke when pieces of loose metal started tearing themselves off a tarp underneath where an entire car rattled loudly. Only this time stakes squealed protesting when several hovered just over his shoulder, "Don't threaten me when I can tear apart entire fucking buildings apart piece by piece, Kaiser. God as my witness I've done it before well outside when I had time to myself, so tell me honestly?"

Thumbing over to where a blond woman stonily met her cousin's gaze almost tensely, "What do you get out of it? Family gatherings?" One by one metallic spears formed up leveling right behind both shoulders as if aiming themselves rigidly, "Nah, I think Empire and I will never be buddy, buddy. Pieces of ass aside, I fight for my people's survival when your shtick is thinking there's a chance to reverse what can't be undone. We're a dying race all due to either of our own policies, choices and most of them wanted to believe the beautiful lie...that we all can just get along, hold hands and hope it goes happily ever after!"

If Empire's leader seemed less than amused no one could tell save for him retorting blandly, "You'll never survive in this world, Grimm. Everyone else thinks you're just some ungodly murderer, but you're just another piece of shit. Useful, but barely." Almost similarly pieces of armor broke off matching with near polished surfaces, "What makes a man like yourself any different? You care about our people's survival, it's the only reason why this country thinks otherwise and how much longer will it take for your movement to learn a lesson?"

Kaiser smiled could visibly be interpreted as savagely pleased, "They don't care about themselves since America lost it's soul. You're fighting for a dying belief, while I'm fighting a dying world." Grimm's throat tightened when Kaiser's own metallic control ceased as again stakes were placed back into their respective origins. He gestured towards a closed off area motioning to Scorch, "We'll need to discuss a few private matters, alone. Wait until we're done, John and maybe you'll get a decent paycheck like every other serf you claim works."

Not even needing an excuse he shot back happily, "Gladly!" Whatever personal issues Kaiser, or Scorch had was better off with him not even humoring that dynamic. Family itself was a but word, another cost for times they lived in. And ironically enough, Endbringers brought that meaning back after it'd been taken for granted. Grimm could only grit his teeth when leaving behind another twisted reminder he'd never be able to considering normal as but a word again. It never could be regained after seeing enough for a world that was dying for decades prior to para-human's emerging to appease a simple thing called insanity.

---

"Coil say where we'll be meeting, Kaiser?" Scorch spoke unusually clipped much to Grimm's visibly joy while smoking contently from behind them. Kaiser's armored form visibly had been leaning against a van's interior while two armed men drove, or kept eyes around them. Since the two cousins had ended whatever being internal matters, Scorch's respirator remained in place not once even being removed as blue eyes opened. It'd be a quiet ride surprisingly, a rarity that kept on giving enjoyment to a third para-human.

Someone got bitched out, or I'd bet my bottom dollar it'd been fun to hear. They'd been parked outside in another random parking lot nearby run down business's, or rather friendly territory where no one would get too curious. A phone beeped silently making eyes look over when armor retracted around one hand which revealed an almost amused snort, "Head to the Rock. Looks like there's probably others meeting tonight, I expect you both to behave and conduct yourselves as apart of Empire regardless of personal...grievances."

Grimm raised a cigar all too good naturally, "First round on you, or me?" Kaiser didn't verbally grace that offer save for making it clear, "Try to not disappoint yourself, John. Don't expect you'll be welcomed as warmly as I've done." Scorch's silence didn't entirely seem comforting given she got told specifically, "And no drama tonight, cousin. How he put's up with your sense of ambition, I'll chalk it up as a quality trait of patience."

Hazel eyes narrowed mainly out of exasperation, "Thought you put her up to it? Stalks me like I'm a damned deer, or is that news to you?" Again Kaiser didn't respond immediately in favor of watching out past a wind shield momentarily chewing that information over, "You'd expect me having you walk around without eyes, or ears?" He finally stated factually unbothered by a loud groan of irritation since it wouldn't be going away soon. Fuck me, I can't even go anywhere now without looking over a shoulder. What a kill joy, not like I advertise myself or Empire for sale.

Traveling through scummier portions of a boarded up building left little imagination it'd been once thriving centuries ago. Old mills layered in brick, warehouses boarded up and numerous homes seeing better days reminded one para-human too much of a home town. Hell, it also got close save for frequency and had more drug addicts shambling across sidewalks. Other than that it'd been a nice place to raise anyone without losing their sanity, if only barely considering he'd moved out after years of finally coming down to it.

"All these places fold up, or move out of country?" Asking mainly for conversations sake as Kaiser seemed willing to humor some attempt at passing time, "Out sourced labor, Grimm. Most employees under me happen to come from around here locally, a small price to pay since I tend to give back jobs to our people." It was fairly straight forward enough given an agreeing nod to that practice since it was only natural, "Perks of having a free-trade policy by Uncle Sam for a dollar store, eh? Think it'd be easier nationalizing some industry?"

Kaiser's humoring mood bordered on sardonic imagination of indifference, "No." Scorch's eye sockets looked over signaling an immediate end to that subject. Man run's a gang and business, can't say I'm kind of curious for his opinion. But guess cape and not cape shit is separated, I swear it's hard to find good conversations. Still it certainly tried alleviating some tension which he'd outright ignored, it never hurt too bad to make things livelier. Apparently though luck didn't hold out when the van sped up past several lingering vehicles where drugs got exchanged, it'd been commonly seen given it'd take a genius to notice oddities.

Turning several blocks past overhanging street lights whose dull glow swept through an interior dousing them all in either red, or green. Scorches glass eye sockets flashed causing a shiver running up his spine due how alien it'd appeared. And Kaiser's armored helm on occasional revealed flesh with eyes either staring up at him through a rear view, or from peripherals. Reminds me of a time when I'd be preparing in the service. Mock missions, and all that glorious horse shit. Almost gets close, even if I didn't enjoy it.

An oppressive stillness settled inside a van's interior much to an urge to either shift legs, or ward off stiffness. But even Grimm didn't dare break it. It simply came naturally, an awkward reasoning aside for sudden tension. He was literally riding with people who'd kill him, people who'd view him as a useful means to an end. And Kaiser's very word depended on himself to get another clean slate. Or else being stuck with a blond menace whose blood relation didn't put him on very good terms, more so it'd get worse off eventually.

Bumps due to increasing pot holes got more prominent with him swaying with smoke smouldering on orange embers. Overall it all screamed increasing sketchy, dangerous and very unnerving considering they were all killers in some fashion. Killing doesn't make you dangerous, it just puts a target on your back. And I'm not even close to having this kind of uneasiness, I sure as hell picked an express way to hell apparently. What an absolute A-grade fucking mess! On and on a vehicle gradually took several more turns expertly avoiding what limited police patrolled such scummier places, a common occurrence due to Brockton Bay's sheer size and priorities.

"Usual spot, boss?" The driver spoke up quietly making Kaiser nod accordingly, "Behind the Rock." They took a small detour cutting through garbage laced side alleyways pressed in between two store fronts of grim decaying industrial fronts. Overhead a partially covered moon did little to see shadowed angles drenching them all in pitch black intervals. Yet two pairs of similar blue eyes never stopped looking back to him hawkish. You're lucky I can stare right back, I don't just wear these tinted glasses for show ya know.

Coming around a bend did momentum slowly end when coming up into some roughed up parking lot. Ahead were crooked angles were some half twisted cars, or rotting piles of garbage give a pleasant view of where anyone wished to end up. The double doors were opened allowing Kaiser access in stepping out as an entire vehicle groaned in relief, "We're early." He observed walking ahead as Grimm eyed less than savory conditions exhaling smoke to stem a rapid beating organ called a heart. Scorch motioned to follow behind when her arms folded themselves behind almost akin to those who'd wore a uniform decades prior.

The building itself had paint peeling off walls due to liquid condensation running once whitish coloration into a stewing mix of chipped brick. Five stars, I'll remember to not come down to this place as long as I can manage. Wonder if inspection codes failed to notice lead, heh. Smiling to himself more cynical than anything did he follow a pair of cousins towards an entrance where he knocked audibly in nearly breaking rusted hinges. Someone opened an eye hole slot briefly when Kaiser did as so much speak despite a door way opening with creaking stress. He went in unbothered with Scorch motioning him to follow in leaving no possible way to back out, an irony since he'd backed himself in for someone else's sake.

"I'm still smoking inside regardless if it's legal, woman." Stating more humorously did she not respond while he eyed some sort of lanky man with eyes down. He'd seen better days, a possible meth addict yet refused eye contact with anyone save for a dirtied up floor. An entire kitchen area still seemed to be active given grease infected surfaces, a scummy freeze partially opened and other such sanitary conditions made it all appealing to order any meal. Maybe getting drinks here isn't the most wisest course of action, shit I'm half tempted to wonder if the alcohol isn't laced with ruffies or something sketchy. But who'd come down here looking a cape, I'd say?

Kaiser's armored back pushed past where an opened up area had various seating arrangements in place. Tables were grouped in corners, a bar had a dozen, or more chairs prepared where some bartender cleaned glasses in some rare show of professionalism. The floors were cracked with dirtied prints ranging from black to a crushed gray. I wouldn't be surprised if people did some fucked up version of Russian Roulette, died as a result with bodies being taken away. God damn, where the hell am and how did I end up in this piece of heaven?

Rugged leather couches were along walls near tables as a logo stood out prominently underneath dim flickering lights. Empire Eighty-Eight had their own section, "Get comfortable, it'll be a bit until others show up." Grimm saluted halfheartedly in formal military fashion conveying he'd listen to the man's advice, it wouldn't do any good trying to half ass said place bothered him personally. Still getting a few drinks in me would be worth it, I'd rather be buzzed and enjoy something relatively as old as the city itself. But I think I'll wipe glass extra carefully, I'll get hand sanitizer next time since I'm being stupid tonight.

Heading over towards dented up bar top where wood had pieces up in random intervals, "You got rum and cola in stock?" The bartender nodded simply when he fished out a twenty from his wallet, "Meetings are on the house." A man said quickly trying to avoid Kaiser's eyes who'd taken up residence on a couch's central position over viewing an entire room. Surprisingly it'd had to have been reinforced given his armor sank himself deeper into an unassuming piece of leather. Yet Grimm wasn't one to not make a decent impression at any bar he'd ever gone too.

"And this is on me, pal." Tossing a bill over without concern making said man wearily glance over but took it nonetheless. Guess he needed permission, not like the man cares too much. It's just good business being polite, besides making some friends, or having good impressions is always a plus to make them look better. Puffing out smoke garnered an employee whose haggard look lightly slide over an ash tray, an old sign they'd been around before it'd become illegal to smoke in any interior building which still pissed many off.

Overhead swaying lamp shades once had been pristine were a crusted green leaving an audible tint in the dimming lighting. Shadows looked greener, depressing and the lack of music playing created a stifling atmosphere making his back tense up. Fuck it, first come and first served! I'm asking if they have some sort of stereo system to play classical music, or something to at least make things somewhat bearable. A glass far more larger than most places ever would legally serve earned one cigar raising all too kindly, "You guys got radio, or blue tooth to play some tunes? Place feels like a graveyard, no offense pal."

A placid smile remained in place when he gestured towards an end of said bar where an outlet for phones could be possible. Grimm lightly took a mouthful of liquid before downing it, "Thanks man, appreciate it." Flicking on a screen while going through applications did he find the spot exactly before allowing connections to occur. Setting up a playlist which he'd named, 'Real Purpose', it'd at least set some comforting appreciation for older musicals. Orchestra just required only sound, no or little lyrics and hopefully would bring some unique impression to enjoy it.

Waiting momentarily until low instrumentals started playing in corners and from above embedded in speakers concealed by dim lighting made his lips twitch. Not often I find a place get the monopoly on playing music, maybe this place ain't too bad. God help me, I'm walking on glass aren't I? Hooking up a charger underneath certainly wouldn't be needed to worry about sudden cut offs helped, so he stretched an arm before heading over to where blue eyes glinted underneath a helmet due to angling deliberately. Scorch's face remained concealed behind red eye sockets on a respirator but did comment when hearing instrumentals, "Interesting tastes, Grimm."

The brim of a polished hat partially lengthening shadows partially made his eyes wince, "Man's gotta keep his secrets! Even you two gotta appreciate some of the best in history, you can't go wrong." Both blood related capes didn't seem to mind, if only Kaiser folding arms closing his own eyes in a rare show of quiet approval. Ah, shit I forgot to get this back pain off. Placing a shotgun off his back onto the table where a barrel angled towards some far corner while he checked a safety switch, it'd be harmless without risking muzzle flashing people. But the open glock remained in place just in case for appearance's sake alone.

"Beethoven." Kaiser spoke up recognizing the symphony making Grimm grin pridefully, "One of many in my little piece of heaven. You won't find this playing on afternoon radio, it took me ages until I got a truck able to play on my phone." The man's eyes remained closed trying to figure out which one exactly in a rarity of similar interest, "Fifth symphony. An original sound track?" Finally settling to dispel some awkwardness aside, Grimm found himself in his element to lightly trace unseen rhythms with a lone finger.

"It's a modern edition, cleared up and made it easier but I like the older one. It's just not free to listen too, if ya get what I mean." Referring to pay for premium selections made an armored cape hum lowly yet made no move to have it turned off. Holy shit, I think I may have found his good side and I don't plan on fucking that up. Resisting an impulsive urge to continue speaking, he resisted partially until pulling out a book which he'd brought along. It'd been stuffed yet managed to not be too wrinkled save for displaying a title.

Reading while absently flicking ash into an ash tray, Kaiser and Scorch looked over eying his action relatively hawkish. Pages only got moved over his head bobbed slightly in tune with a symphony playing overhead, "Is that your preferred hobby?" Grimm didn't look over in favor of drinking in words from a man who'd lived thousands of years ago, "Mostly. Cigars, drinks and talking with people who love good conversation is mainly my thing, I like it simple." He admitted truthfully well aware they were trying to find ways to exploit him in being tied to Empire's employment, but it'd been far more effective while being left alone.

It never makes me laugh whenever you have old hobbies, it throws everyone for a loop. Silently trembling in sheer joy did he finish a chapter before starting another, "You smoke?" Looking partially over in seeing blue eyes stare back visibly, "Only on occasion." Resisting to shiver due to how clipped the man's voice gave nothing except for steel indifference. Scorch seemingly crossed both her legs trying to not speak up, if only barely when her cousin's presence crushed every possible sense of free will.

"What do you want to know?" Grimm spoke mainly casual frequently looking towards a back doorway expecting others in showing up eventually, "You were ready to kill me, earlier." The man hardly seemed to change his indifference, "Morals don't belong in war, Grimm. You'd have already lose an argument, if you fell back onto them." That debate sparked an old lingering excitement inside a man who'd served much to their unknown understanding. Of course morals didn't belong in war, they'd only destroy men and he'd been no exception in that regard.

"Afghanistan, two thousand ten." Three words were enough to draw incredulous looks from a man who asked simply, "Armed forces?" A nod followed without preamble in saying, "Armor corps. U.S army, I'm well aware morals are just words...in peace time. Cliche as it sounds, being trained to shoot a man is pretty effective in conditioning us all. Took me an entire year to put myself back together, it wasn't a pleasant time."

Scorch looked over mainly to her cousin who questioned again indifferently, "Then why fight for your people?" Grimm's eyes remained fixated on texts grinning visibly with a cigar smouldering, "Because I chose too. Got caught up during some interesting trends, researched what caused wars and dug deeper to be laughed at. Friend of mine was far more thorough, we hooked up and went to rallies during those 'fun' years...I almost got killed." He admitted recalling days when an entire public wanted to string them all up for speaking out about what had been happening. It still continued slowly, as if being constricted piece by piece and everyone was conditioned to ignore it in favor of humor, crack downs and other such methods.

Flipping another page while taking another decent drink of alcohol to relax further, "Not much else to say, Kaiser. I'm just another white guy living his life, right?" Puffing out smoke through nostrils made him wince due to sheer heat alone for allowing a taste to form again. Damn, I'm nervous as all hell. I can't escape being interrogated, guys just as bad as his cousin. No wonder they're related, I can see the connection.

Scorch's voice softly interjected giving some credibility, "I did say I was trying to ask him despite him acting as a loose cannon, Kaiser." Grimm whistled almost painfully when blurting out, "Oh, my heart! Where's the trust, girl?" Blue eyes narrowed in a slight show of warning yet nothing came from save for clear warnings. Apparently mentioning a gender was pushing limits, it'd almost appeared as if total control wouldn't be given up at all. And truth be told, Grimm went with it considering he'd been through similar strict conduct years ago.

"And yet you hid yourself?" Hazel eyes finally looked up mildly annoyed when bringing up that same damned fact, "Because I did what I wanted too. Took a step back, I made my point." Kaiser's low chuckling didn't agree when an armored hand settled on taking a book out of his hands. Grimm didn't bother resisting since it'd just draw trouble, he bitterly wanted to hear what wanted to be said in an illusion of willingness. Empire's leader flipped over cover and back while skimming through lines modestly taking in what had been written millennia ago in the hands of someone in the most powerful of civilization that ever existed.

Tracing text momentarily before a book got tossed lightly onto the table's surface, "War is all about victory, it's nothing less given history is written by victors. You just don't want to be the one in the war who becomes the victor, or made to be the enemy by those who win." Grimm's expression turned slightly amused in finding that logic far too plain, "But you're neither. You'd rather be forgotten because you have no ambition, a determent that leaves every man unable to go forward and therefore unable to go back without hating yourself. How typical, you just want to slip by because it'd give nothing except to be the joke."

Raising a glass somewhat gratefully in an old manner akin to one who listened, "Better men than me are born, or live. Someone's got to find them!" Whether he loathed such views, or found them mundane Kaiser never bothered to reveal it. He looked over towards his blood relative momentarily though as if sharing a decision that gave little away.

"Is that Thinker worth it, Grimm?" Said para-human only grinned while inhaling on a cigar, "I think it's best I'll find out the old fashioned way. By simplifying in rolling with the punches." Kaiser didn't respond to instead look up where voices could be heard largely. Apparently their time being alone was up, it seemed others were showing up. And unfortunately, or fortunately Grimm wouldn't considering anything as a god given miracle to simply return back to his reading. After all it rarely happened in what was only to enjoy a good conversation unexpectedly nowadays.

Quite a gathering, if I have anything to say about it. Grimm eyes took in various people ranging from african to other mixed groups, if only considering he and two other para-humans had pale complexions went by numbers alone. It didn't take long before tastes in music came up, "What kind fucking shit is this? Sound like ass!" Some possible para-human heaved out looking straight out of some gang with a bandana covering near visibly pissed eyes. He waved a handgun absently aiming it sideways towards the bar tender who remained tight lipped.

"Hey, fuck face!" Grimm watched an almost heated confrontation start up mainly by his own doing, "The shit is this? Pissing, dance and all that?" Kaiser hadn't moved save for leaning back onto the couch whereas Scorch remained where she sat, "Yo, Skid? Can I pop this bitch ass looking white skeletor motha' fucka up?"

Some other gang member bared lost teeth when another man cackled, "Why waste the bread? Addict's man, addicts...you gotta think ahead, brother!" Leaning over while puffing on freshly opened cigar as an older one remained dead, "Who are they?" Kaiser didn't respond at first again in favor of simply nodding along with another symphonic pace quite unbothered, "Merchants." They appeared more akin to drug dealers considered most started pulling wrapped white bundles, or some of them started injecting syringes while dealing out cards, guns and bullets with money in some pile on their side of a bar getting comfortable.

One of these Merchants who wore some sort of half face covering blue cloth bared teeth far too smugly when calling out, "If it ain't the white hooded man himself! Shit brother, I thought your kind hid out in the woods and burnt crosses on weekends." Kaiser's eyes finally opened looking utterly irritated despite wearing a helmet covering the growing sneer. Even Scorch looked over not bothering to hide their unified annoyance, "Heil Himmler, what up! Eh?" Making a show by doing an iconic gesture which seemed to follow an exaggerated stomping motion.

Unoriginal, but funny as fuck I'd give it. Grimm resisted offering in a few others he'd seen others pull off and make tense conversations devolve into enjoyable times. Striding over with hands in pockets while bent over did a leering provocation be heard, "Oh c'mon man! I bet you did Nazi see that coming, get it? Nazi you see?" The cousins hardly looked amused given their group's intended rhetoric, Grimm couldn't but savor that knowing consequence. There would be a reason why he avoided corny jokes aside, it wouldn't work given his intentions politically speaking.

As much I love jokes, I don't think he's being funny for just good sport. Wryly finding that almost too obvious save for Kaiser's less than amused mood, "You're ruining what my people have crowned as an achievement, Skidmark. Don't press my patience, I was finally content." Crooked teeth were baring almost gleeful in provoking Empire's leader before moving towards towards Scorch, "Well holy shit, I see tits and tight leather! Woo, where do ya find all these guys? Churning out fine ass little uniforms, finally coming out of the closet, eh?"

He pulled out a little baggy filled with either had to methamphetamine, or possibly heroin given some of appeared akin to tar. Now that'll clog some veins up, or else I'll quit smoking. Waving it around tauntingly, "Want a taste? Ya white folk love it, it's my number one product on this side of town and by lord, I love that bread dishing out. Especially them college kids, oh so good I can't Nazi anything but hearing them beg."

The blond's face tiled over revealing reddish eye sockets when smoothly retorting, "Aren't you going to ask your daddy when talking about strangers?" Even Grimm winced realizing that burn when said man's smile turned nastily impressed, "Oh shit! We've hit a nerve, I bet your tight as fuck and I'd say you were asking for it. Mommy's not here holding ya hand, girlie!" Raising eyebrows rather amazed did a para-human notice Scorch shift an arm subtly. This is why I keep my mouth shut, I tend to listen and watch since you never know who's a winner. Fucking hell, I guess this isn't just for show if he picked up on that topic.

Even though the man's eyes traced hungrily over an unknown relative of Kaiser who had his eyes closed again. It left little to understand he'd allowed it, "Is it not interesting why your kind happens to fill the gutter?In, out of prison and here I thought negros learned about their betters." Skidmark made an impressive show of making a slave impression. His voice tingled on some sort of british off shoot making even Grimm question whether open borders made this even more funnier in hindsight, "Yes'a mistress! Me sa be white, I's a good boy and slave to masta ya?"

He tossed the bag lightly where it landed in front of a young woman, "Snort it, or crank it up your ass girlie. You'll thank me later!" Realizing an empty glass after trying to down water, Grimm figured getting up to head over towards a not so harassed bartender. Taking a drag did little when the man forcibly held out an arm, "Whoa now! Hold up there, ya looking like a damned mass shooter! And the hell you smoking, shit on a stick?"

Grimm raised said stick rather mildly casual, "Cigar." Taking said drag to puff out smoke making the man wave an odor away coughing a bit, "And you were close. Mass murderer, actually." Shaking ice inside a glass rather obviously, "And I'm getting another drink. Want a henny, or a beer?" Offering that made the blue clothed merchant whistle out in sheer shock. If anything kindness seemingly always threw people for a loop, if they didn't understand it.

"Well my lord, am I seeing this right? Or am I not Nazi-ing it?" Grimm retorted good naturally by stating rather bemused, "I'm apart of the Kool Kids Klub! Didn't you hear about it, I also have a friend whose about this tall right about here..." He raised a salute to his temple while grinning openly before angling it to just where a bar had been conveniently located, "...and holy shit! I guess he's over there! Hey, hey, hey I think we found him!"

Skidmark looked visibly stunned before straining to not laugh to instead hunch over, "Oh shit, I almost crapped my pants." Snickering rather loudly to wipe away a tear, "Damn! Mind if I use that one?" Grimm shrugged mainly to keep things relatively entertaining, "Go on ahead man. You'll probably sound funnier, I just work for a living." That caused another laugh of genuine amazement when a thumb pointed over rather amazed.

"Where the hell do you find your guys, Kaiser? Huh?" Smoke miraculously managed to get him to step away coughing again, "God damn! Shit stinks!" Even if it'd ceased the question got asked with said merchant waving bluish smoke away, "Who you supposed to be? Captain Klux?" Grimm's smile widened when coming out to say almost far too innocently, it'd caused several to look over not believing it.

"I'm the black hood." Skidmark blinked once, twice and finally slowly looked to an armored Empire leader, "Damn, I think your new dog is tripped on acid." More amusement followed when said supposed dog quietly, "Bark, bark...woof, woof." He got passed finally heading back to a bartender while again lazily tossing a ten dollar bill despite overhearing, "What in the actual fuck? Whose this white and black Joker, eh?"

It didn't take long when another glass appeared with several green pieces of fruit giving an unseen gratefulness. Rum and limes, oh god! I'm in love! Tipping a cigar good naturally while heading back where Kaiser finally graced a name, "Grimm." Said man looked over when taking a seat again, "Don't humor this loser, I only stomach so much. It's bad enough it's ruining a good choice in music, am I understood?"

Grimm nodded in return not willing to make anything less strange aside given Skidmark's face lit up, "Whoa, hold on!" Leaning over a table which got Scorch to tilt her head over partially, "This is Grimm like Grim Reaper? Or Grim...ah, shit I got nothing right now." He muttered before going back on an outfit surprisingly enough, "Guy dresses up like some mass shooter, man you white folk sure love your colors. But Grimm?"

Said para-human didn't bother responding to instead go back to reading since he'd done enough trying to make things funnier. Good luck trying joking about that word, I'll start dishing out dollars if you manage pal. Skidmark didn't appear to let up by snapping fingers, "Hey, hey, hey! It's rude ignoring someone talking to ya." Hazels eyes looked up yet tinted glasses made it appear he was ignoring an aggravated merchant who found that genuinely disrespectful. Kaiser, or Scorch seemingly found some silent fulfillment in him unintentionally pissing the guy off.

"Oh acting tough for the girlie, isn't it?" Grimm came close to biting a tongue when Scorch looked over towards Kaiser seeking approval to say something. Yet he let it continue for whatever reasoning that didn't make things civil anymore. Are you shitting me, really? Does it look like these two and I match clothing, or are you brain dead from smoking that shit in a bag? But if a blue eyed armored cape had told him to stay quiet, he'd acquiesce since it was too natural for him to not really do anything save for observing.

Skidmark inched closer trying to see right through lenses which reflected greenish light, "Oh I like white guys like you, is it cause I'm black? Think ya better, guess having small dicks is quite a lady thing." Grimm ideally resisted trying to not point out larger ones tended to ruin chances of having children, or so what had been researched considering it was besides a damned point. Aggressive much pal, or is that just natural intelligence? Guy flips out when clearly hearing I've been told to knock it off, I'm starting to wonder why so many of his people just go in and out of prison. Can't see a hint unless someone point's it out.

But apparently Kaiser was making an unseen warning come full circle, if he dared believing these capes were friendly. Grimm didn't need to be a genius when Skidmark pulled out some knife clearly in attempt to appear threatening as an equal to Kaiser for some damned reason, "See I hate whtie folk who like to smile, say what ya want to hear and all while promising shit. We tend to not like bullshit, but other brothers are smart to be them, 'Shut the fuck up, now be quiet', kinds underneath these devil blue eye guys. Ya ring a bell, Grimmy cracka?"

Apart from not appearing to hear warnings did a gloved hand raise itself until some metallic spear literally came within inches of piercing a chin. Kaiser's armor literally vibrated when his voice came smugly pleased, "Back to your side of the room, merchant. Or are you threatening to break a truce we've got in place? I'm sure lynching is still a habit my men would pick up, we've been itching for some blood." Skidmark's throat swallowed briefly when feeling a tip lightly tap dried out skin until he backed off mainly from getting too close. And from beside him Scorch's leather outfit started illuminating a dull reddish orange with flames licking upwards.

"Keep Captain Klan on your side of town, and we're cool...Kaiser." Grimm's heart thundered when blood rushed into his ears from seeing that loathing behind that blue clothe. And people wonder why, don't they? Can't change what make's people different from us, we don't think, believe or act the same way at all. Exhaling out smoke considerably from seeing arguments appear in open view, it'd never change facts given most people played ignorant. And truth be told he had a single word, if racial slurs started being a hot commodity for playing tough guy.

Eying both cousins who ceased in their clear agenda of keeping underneath their thumbs, "You two are assholes." He left it at that in favor reading while listening over deliberate talking, yelling and in a vain spiteful attempt to blend out musical symphonies. I just got fucked playing funny guy, I should probably not do it often anymore. Captain Klan, I can't say that's not original and almost a little too extreme.

Occasionally more people showed up looking towards speakers wondering what music had been playing. Some seemingly gravitated in between where they sat, or in between merchant members who began lighting up tightly packed bundles of white paper. And it didn't take long to smell a skunk like odor trying to kill off tobacco. Wow, petty much? Fucking capes, I should have called into work today and earned some overtime.

Leaning back idly flicking a shotgun's trigger switch back on safety for good measure turned out prematurely unneeded, "Which one is Coil?" Asking making blue eyes glint underneath lighting as a negative answer came clipped, "No one here is him. You'll find out, Empire and Coil are strictly between us." Between a somewhat crowded room filling up, Grimm noticed nearest towards where walls and windows met with iron bars did one table remain unused. Above one brighter light remained where only two people would be able to sit. And it all looked incredibly sketchy akin to some mob movie he'd seen truly.

Time seemingly passed to a point where orchestral music drowned out over various conversations, or laughter when cards got pulled out. Within the merchants specifically who were deliberately being obnoxious pulled out phones, they started texting and from behind where every cape appeared was dragged several women who'd seen better days. And conveniently enough they were white skinned with hands slapping asses as they dipped below a table. If that's not an intentional pissing contest, they certainly love to rub it in. God help them, because I'm not willing to play hero when they got themselves mixed up with those people. But Skidmark wasn't wrong, meth and other heroin players move onto the one group which uses it most.

Kaiser hardly shifted yet Scorch's fists tightened in cracking knuckles silently enraged. Think you're good enough, woman? Try it, piss off your cousin and go save them. Good luck trying to keep them alive from withdrawals, it just gives them an excuse to find more. Grimm flipped another page well aware of most what was occurring had been due to him personally, or mainly through Kaiser's shrewd foresight to let anger stew in securing two para-humans.

"You have a lot to learn, Versengen." The man wasn't unaware in seeing gloved hands retract below a table, "Both as family and in leading." Reddish eye sockets turned towards similar colored eyes which didn't ignore, or acknowledge an intentional provocation. It simply came down into being wasn't worth mentioning considering Grimm agreed mainly for keeping himself clear of drama, "Pick your conflicts, learn your enemies habits and win the war when victory is secured. We've lost many, too many and there's little time to adapt from old strategies."

She looked towards one loaded shotgun despite glancing to Kaiser who looked over finally making a gaze appearing steeled. Oh hell, no! Preemptively reaching in placing said safety locked firearm aside, a barrel tilted accordingly over out of sight. Speaking fairly annoyed did he add his two cents, "Buy your own, please." And funnily enough Kaiser didn't say anything to dissuade somewhat of an act of wisdom. Even if getting into a shoot out wouldn't have done much, it'd probably draw police presence as little who'd dared patrolling scummier neighborhoods.

"It's disgusting." Her voice stated mainly in what lingered on their table, or to heads bobbing between legs. You don't get out much, do you? Grimm's observation bordered on sheer joy in seeing an up-bringing being torn apart, "How you can stand for it?" Kaiser's answer didn't shed any sympathy when referring to pleasantly realities, "Because they deserve what they placed themselves into, Versengen. And it'll always continue when livelihoods disappear, I'm amazed you'd even grace that filth your attention but as they say we'll just...live and learn."

Somehow if that wasn't family it'd have gone far more differently in one para-humans mind. Taking another mouthful of drink before exhaling contently did they remain quiet while favoring some sort of atmosphere. Occasionally bellowing cheers of cards being thrown at others met, even when heads and mouth's were currently making a game enjoyable. And it didn't long before things got far more exquisite in hindsight. Money was offered when hands and legs were spread along booths, it got closer to actual brothel within minutes of hooting jeers. Least some people are having a good time, I'm stuck playing the quiet game.

Time passed relatively without incident despite getting a third drink after finishing several chapters to lean back relaxed. Grimm partially just drifted towards an almost tempted napping session, but laughter and hooting kept him very much awake. And in that span a leg propped itself accordingly onto one spare chair leaving little room for discomfort. However both cousins seemingly eyed either himself, or others who strayed too close. No one recognized the recent para-human whose name was being used by public outlets, or so he'd hoped.

"Hey, check that out!" Opening eyes blinking away pleasant shivers of alcoholic origin did a pair of people look specifically towards him, "Yeah, it matches." Unlike most they were apparently of asian descent at best. Kaiser's armor shifted briefly when one of them seemingly shrugged as if suggesting something relatively ballsy. Scorch's head shifted over as well in response realizing when the two agreed to get up curiously enough. Alright, what am I missing here? I sure as hell didn't give them any reason, I think?

Both approached holding their respective bottles of some foreign beer as they were dressed in colors of red and green. Yet they stood well out reach when a man's softly accent voice spoke directly to the para-human sitting centrally, "Kaiser, may we sit and talk?" Blue eyes glinted underneath were they were partially visible, "You may, at your own risk if you waste Empire's time. We have business with Coil tonight, so make it quick and to the point."

The two sat nodding stiffly well aware they'd be offed quick, "Lung wants a sit-down." Grimm raised an eyebrow accordingly not knowing who'd they mentioned, "Possible truce, if you're willing to hear him out. We were sent here just in case you'd show up personally, also we were told about..." Their slanted eyes looked over to where he sat reading seemingly undisturbed. But again tinted glasses kept hazel eyes from seeming scrutiny.

"You moved in our my territory, did he expect us to roll over?" One of them seemed to be eying the only para-human who seemingly frightened them, "Lung's curious about your latest...employee. This Grimm man, who sits next to you." Kaiser's voice turned sly to remark, "Empire business. Lung wants to meet, we meet here and on my time. Can I expect a truce with a mad dog who's threatened by someone I use to my own end?"

Scorch's quivering form hid obvious laughter given her actions validated a per-planned intention that Kaiser capitalized on. Son of a bitch, I'm getting screwed over again. And it's one thing having PRT up my ass, but other gangs? They seemed genuinely unnerved torn on whether to be relieved, or cautiously suspicious of a man encased in armor. Yet they didn't show disdain for being treated akin to stray dogs, "We'll send word. Thank you for hearing us out, Kaiser...and you too, Grimm." That didn't settle well inside his guts at all given their loathing.

The two asian gangsters left without preamble heading out a backdoor with their task seemingly accomplished. It didn't take long before Grimm asked exasperated, "What in hell's name was that all about?" Motioning to a younger relative whose smug tone brokered little disappointment, "An insurance policy, Grimm. No one survived to report back to an enemy of ours, but only a name was left behind and it's quite effective considering no one knows you...so far. All they know is Empire and you are tied together, simple as you'd say."

An incredibly longer puff of smoke exhaled signaling irritation, "I hate you." Scorch's hand reflexively tried stemming a strained laugh yet failed entirely, "We've been looking for an excuse to finally bring others to a table, Kaiser allowed it." Referring to an elder man whose eyes closed again taking solace in hearing some music above them. Yet again because of what had happened, it'd set in motion events he wasn't going to ask for details about.

Oh joy, I am seriously going to start drinking more often at this rate. Book marking where he left off left little enjoyment when Kaiser's helmet looked over to him fully, "You know your place, don't ruin what makes you valuable. I intend to use what little you can provide, whether you want to assist us willingly or not." The man didn't speak again leaving a pair of hazel eyes rolling behind glasses when stretching an arm to lay flush against a couch's top.

Just then the front door opened without warning hushing an entire bar full of capes, gangsters and dealers in a singular act. Grimm cocked his neck over in seeing a door several feet in front of him until an unexpected sight caused his eyes raising. What in the actual shit, am I seeing? Striding in without worry came some sort of ridiculous looking clown of a cape he'd ever witness. Along with half a dozen armed masked men followed behind setting up a wall of flesh, bullets and trained looking soldiers whose expressions forced many to slow movements.

The darkened coloration some tight skinned suit blended perfectly underneath dim lighting where a person sat in an unused chair sharply. Hands folded over each in a clear posture of watching all and leaving no one to do, except stare back. White swirling patterns reminiscent of a snake curing and wrapping around said exterior seemed far too disorienting to make his stomach twist. No visible eyes, mouth or nose could been seen at all. It was simply a blank black mask seemingly staring at nothing and whoever it was looked over to where they sat.

Kaiser stirred quietly ordering them both, "Behave yourselves, Coil and I will take a while." Coil seemed eerily still drinking in a hushed exterior despite symphonies playing clearly. He apparently didn't mind the music, as far as Grimm understood. And yet his spine tingled in sheer damning warning when staring behind tinted glasses. Why is he staring at me, specifically? My gut's screaming at me to haul ass, I'm getting a real bad fucking feeling here. And last time I had this kind of feeling, I watched an IED blow some humvee into damned pieces.

An armored cape sat parallel to Coil as words started to be exchanged in low tones. Grimm never felt someone slide over until Scorch's voice startled him immeasurably, "That's Brockton Bay's most dangerous man, no doubt. No one knows who Coil is, or what he does." Mildly annoyed in being close proximity did he inevitably ask, "Sounds like a real nice guy. Should I ask him for a job, or you that scared?"

A gloved hand lightly settled along his dipped forearm, if only out of playful warning. Grimm didn't react visibly save for biting an interior cheek fighting back urges to remove it, "Power is what Coil is entirely, Grimm. No one asks him for a job, he'll ask you long before that idea goes off." The costumed Thinker's head tilted lightly when Kaiser remained rigidly sitting when a note got passed involving names. It was read without ever being flipped over.

"There's always an apex predator on the food chain, woman." He stated more attune to how much everyone else seemingly shrunk away from Coil's stilled form, "You're just pissed it ain't you, or your cousin." Scorch's silence vindicated that assumption given he'd gotten a hint, or two in how to tell her off without resorting to physicality. But a gloved hand traced further down towards his wrist in successfully tensing up flesh on a touch alone. Grimm didn't exactly enjoy anyone, or even held indication in having hands on him at all.

A respirator's tip came within inches of his ear lobe garnering an irritated grinding of teeth, "You think you know me, but I know you far more than yourself. Kaiser is just being funny, you'll never stop enjoying what makes you so...good." Ignoring every sensible urge to throw an elbow back right underneath to crack a jawline almost killed him figuratively, "Once upon a time you weren't shy about doing what needed to be done. And now you're only looking for excuse to do it again, and again because no one else does it."

She leaned away enough despite feeling warm through his arm due to air heating up gradually. We all know our devils, woman. I just laughed at mine, I just looked in a mirror and it only smiled right back at me. Grinning to himself did the man simply lean back without worry, if only just ignoring a finger lightly tapping an inner arm. Sometimes people tried too hard, it caused a tingling sensation run up his spine finding it unwelcome due to blood flowing quickly. And yet it never changed when a man simply committed himself in going with momentum's flow.

End Chapter III

Author's Note: Couple things to mention, you've gotten your first glimpse at Worm's main driven character. Now, whether she, or the others show up is probably not going to be viewed in my eyes as day to day. Maybe, they'll come across each other but as of present? Not likely, the Undersiders will come as they form up, whether we see it mentioned, or if Grimm happens to come across it. Odds are, it's not likely given he's being more, or less dragged around while waiting under waning patience in setting up new identities for himself/Rascal.

Will Rascal make his debut, without a doubt eventually but mainly this is just world building with plenty of dialogue to really set the tone in terms of other characters showing up. But as you can see, Skidmark and Kaiser do not like each other which in canonical events, he's denied a seat at the table dealing with a certain gang whose appearance will be showcased. Whether you enjoy the ideas of dynamics between internal hierarchies, or can't stomach topics is on you as a reader to comment, take in or simply shrug it off. But as you can see, notoriety rises along with actions whether they're clouded in deception (As you noticed), or with limited information considering Grimm's exploits.

It's not fully explained, to my understanding despite assuming of ideologies asides...why, or what is a cause for it. Skidmark isn't stupid, I make that clear and the Merchants are full well encompassed proven dangers to people in all forms of life. Case in point, look above and you determine whether that's not just all show before it escalated quickly whether, Grimm was being genuinely kind or enjoying some form of interest. But what is mentioned, is real enough in the sense if you can research and determine through numerical evidence, along with other sensible reasoning aside. Yet this brings me to a point few stories do not place much effort into, what makes a leader of any group stand out, or rather how they operate.

So we have a very clear indication of Kaiser's personality, demeanor and other forms of what you'd be able to visually imagine. Scorch's relation though, now that's the kicker in terms of what we'd imagine in such circumstances. Again I'll stress this issue, Skidmark wasn't kidding around, he's a shrewd, observant man and very aware character despite what we've seen...least officially stated, being street smart is essential in running arguably a profitable underground trade. And notice how Grimm reacted, he simply didn't bother getting into it, until said guy considered him a two face joker.

People whether by race, or if you deem it so, are different according to nature based on historical fact. Get over it, if I'm being callous save for not going further into slang territory since I easily could've, but your imagination is enough in humoring whenever words are mentioned. Everyone will lose their minds, but mainly it's also showcasing a point. It's not all sunshine and bullshit rainbows, even in Brockton Bay where most gangs are split off racially and if you think I'm bullshitting? Apart from the merchants, which gangs are solely in whose camp?

But that's not the mark, it's only fact as far as I'm concerned. Internal power struggles, both exterior and interior of any group is well within plausibility yet whether Scorch's mentioned, 'ambition' is mentioned by Kaiser. What does it mean? Who knows, it's on you to decide that much. And now let's get to the real threat who walked right through a front door: Coil.

Coil is quite an enigma in both canon, as well as this alliteration of portrayal. He's not someone known as good news, Kaiser's explicitly kept himself separated as dealing with the most powerful man in that city? Even idiots wouldn't dare, if they valued to live in that sense. Someone will ask me, "Is he technically the main villain to beat, or contend with?" My response is thus, Coil's a man few willingly you'd go against and if need be? He'll contact you long before anything, funny how he tends to come off as all knowing...right? Just don't ever assume whenever that character appears, it won't end up well enough that someone is going to pay a price one way, or another.

Either way be prepared for the upcoming chapters, we're about to find out some even more things best left forgotten. I'm only saying it as it is, if you thought the tone of this chapter was mundane and more character focused, it's meant too. The further we go, the further we find ourselves surrounded by what makes many a man shiver whenever they as a monster find other monsters. Grimm maybe relatable to many readers, or not...but he's no saint, nor is he harmless and unfortunately that just might not cut it enough in this world we find ourselves walking among.

Leave a review, have a nice day and enjoy the weekend.