Well, well, what is this? Could it be *gasp* that Thor finally got around to posting more of this oh so brilliant tale? The answer is...Literally! Things continue apace in this chapter, and I promise there should be enough violence for even the die hard combat gumby twinks out there. Plus there is some o so intriguing plot as the plans of the Black Spiral Dancers are revealed. All this and Jo! Now of course Tremere can get off my back about getting updates posted. Okay, before we start let me answer a few questions/opinions.

Jinroh: ...yeah, you're right. Smashing in the window doesn't make much sense. i guess I just got caught up in the general mayhem I was cuasing. I'll fix that any century now, thanks for the catch. As for my vampire story...which one? Arrrggh, I shall see about updates sooner or later, don't worry. Toss me a title though and I'll think about focusing on one.

Tremere: Yes, there is a reason. Wait and see if you can figure out what.

GrayFlank: Thanks for the kind words o horse that writes. No, there is nothing against bathroom mirrors, yes the players take advantage of this, yes there are evil ST tricks to mess with them anyways. As for the specialist remarks I think I blew it using that as the cliffhanger/shock ending twice. I'll have to adjust that. But anyways, on with the tale...

Fall of the Heroes: A Tale of Detroit

Chapter 10: Tears Not Seen in The Pouring Rain

Stinkface shoved his way through the crowded street. Behind him trailed his pack. His Pack. He thought the words with pride. He was leader, and he had been put in charge of this operation. He snarled with glee as he remembered Kendar's words as he placed him in charge. You are proud of your skills, now let us see if I should be.' It had been a simple order, but carried with it all he needed to know. This was his chance, his time for glory and success. The human cattle took one look at his dark and dirty face and scurried out of the way. Those that didn't were snarled at as he roughly pushed them aside. None dared shout out angrily at him as he walked off. For he was the hunter.

They entered into the dark alley and Stinkface paused to allow the packs to form up. He had been put in charge of two other packs. Together with his own he now commanded thirteen warriors. More then enough to crush any opposition that might dwell within the warehouse. He pulled off the ratty sock cap he wore and allowed his dark hair to hang limply around his dirty face. He snarled slightly as he eyed the others, meeting each of their gazes and assuring himself of their readiness.

Are you ready to taste the blood of our foes? To tear their hearts from their chests? Around him heads nodded and dark smiles split eagerly across dirty faces. Only Pugdog and Quiggis didn't seem so eager. Of course they were the eldest there. The other packs both being young and inexperienced. The two older warriors simply stood quiet and ready. Quiggis scowling angrily, Pugdog carefully watching Stinkface. Let us go then. A two pronged attack. My pack shall tear through the roof and come down from above. You others shall enter through the front and rear doors and attack from below.

No, it shall be a full frontal attack. Only three shall be chosen to go upstairs. The quiet whisper hissed through the dark alley. Stinkface spun around in surprised anger, looking for the speaker.

Who dares? Two shapes stepped out of the shadows. One a slender and beautiful woman with a wild mane of white hair. The second a tall and thin figure wrapped in black robes.

I dare. Endelon smiled as he spoke the words. His deep blue eyes glinted dangerously as they met Stinkface's gaze. Stinkface felt a tingle of fear pass through him. Why was Endelon here? Why did he seek to usurp his command of the packs? Stinkface knew Endelon would take his glory, leave him with nothing. He felt a low growl start to build in his throat. Suddenly a hand clamped down warningly on his shoulder.

A wise leader knows when to back down as well as attack, hissed Pugdog softly. Stinkface snarled at him and the older Dancer quickly stepped back again. He turned back to Endelon, who still stood with that eerie and easy grin on his face. He seemed relaxed and overconfident. But Stinkface saw that the dark blue eyes were watching him carefully indeed. He lowered his head slightly and looked away.

I accept your command, he said grudgingly. Endelon nodded. Behind him the strange woman laughed slightly. The packs quickly turned to hear the plan of the master assassin.


I don't believe it, muttered Argent as he looked at the screen. He frowned as he shook his head and turned away. It is only the slimmest of moons in the sky tonight, is it not?

Tomorrow night, agreed Syntax quietly. She sat in her chair, the dim lights of the computers washing over her frowning face. We must warn the tribes, we must assemble a force to stop them. She turned towards Argent. You must go and warn the council now, tonight. Argent nodded as he turned to grab his cane. Syntax stood up and turned to another computer. Her slender fingers danced over the machine as the hum of computers grew louder. Blue Storm, full information download to backup files.

Statement: It shall be done. The glowing spider faded away from the screen. More hums grew from the collection of computers. Argent stood up and started to head through the large and darkened room towards the stairs.

You should call Dominic. I shall need his help in getting the council moved to swift action. Syntax nodded as she walked over to a table and picked up a cell phone. Then she froze. Her gray eyes narrowed. Something was wrong. The sounds of her jungle had just shifted.

Argent, get back here! Even as the words left her mouth dozens of flashing red lights exploded into activity across her console. Syntax snarled as she turned to watch them. She had been a fool, had become too distracted by the translation. She had forgotten to keep an eye out for approaching danger. She watched the monitor of the lower level with an angry scowl. The powerful black furred shapes came smashing through the walls. They had entered via the Penumbra, and had thus avoided most of her defenses. Syntax snarled angrily as the Pattern Spiders swarmed to the defense of the lair. But they would need all the help she could give if they were to stop that many Spirals.

Argent cried out in surprise as part of the roof caved in and three Black Spiral Dancers dropped into the dark computer room. Argent spun towards them. His face twisting up into a snarl of anger as he shifted into the crinos. His cane was tossed aside as the powerful silver man-wolf bellowed a cry of challenge to the three dark shapes. Argent stood proud, the dim lights of the computers dancing over his bright silver fur. His eyes glinted as he bared his long white fangs. The three twisted shadows of the Spirals simply chuckled. Their beady yellow eyes flashing eagerly in the darkness.

That was when the black robed figure seemed to appear out of the darkness behind Argent. Syntax felt her throat go tight as she shouted a warning. Argent reacted quicker then she had expected, his arm lashing out behind him as he spun suddenly. But the dark robed figure only grinned as it almost lazily ducked beneath the swing. Its robe billowed open as it drew forth two blackened blades. Bright gleams of silver visible along the sharp, deadly edges, and within the twisted runes that were etched along the blades. The weapons flashed as green fire suddenly danced along the edges, coating them in lethal balefire.

The strike was fast and sudden. The flaming blades hummed upwards and disappeared deep into the silver fur of Argent. The aged Silver Fang grunted in surprise, his whole body seeming to freeze in place. He slowly lowered his head and looked down into the smiling face of the Dancer. Argent's eyes blinked slowly. He turned to look over at Syntax. His arm languidly dropped down to his side. His clawed hand relaxing. A sudden bright dribble of red poured out of his mouth. The glistening flow of blood splashed down lightly on his chest. Spattering the gleaming silver coat with droplets of crimson red.

He stood transfixed, facing death in this dark combat. Argent tried to smile kindly at her.

The Dancer snarled as he twisted his blades sharply, blood gushed out of the two holes and splattered on the floor. The Dancer howled in glee as it tore the blades out in a wide sweeping motion, ripping apart Argent's chest and showering the whole area in a spray of scarlet mist. Green fire hissed and crackled, burning Argent's fur and charring it black. The twin blades suddenly streaked back in, wide trails of boiling blood and spitting green flames hissing off of them as he slashed them across Argent's throat.

Get the other one, he snarled as he watched the Silver Fang crumple to the ground in a shower of gore. Syntax looked up as the three other Dancers cackled with glee as they rushed towards her. The horror of Argent's death was washed away in a flush of anger. She turned and ducked under her computer terminal. The Dancers snarled as they rushed over, peering into the darkness as they searched for her. But the shadows had seemed to swallow her whole.

Syntax felt the cold hard piece of anger in her grow larger. The ice burning with its very coldness. She allowed it to expand, demanded that it fill her. The skintight bodysuit seemed to disappear beneath a suddenly sprouting growth of midnight black hair. Her slender arms grew longer and thicker. Her delicate fingers thickened as her nails sharpened and hardened into deadly claws. Her mouth split open to reveal bright and sharp fangs. She let loose a howl of anger, its cry filling the dark computer room and seeming to come from everywhere and nowhere at once.

Syntax's eyes narrowed as she crept along on all fours. Around her the dim sounds and hissing whirrs of her jungle continued. She moved with the noises, using them to mask her own sounds. She felt the approach of the Spirals, their existence a dark stain within the clean order of the jungle. She slipped into a corner and peered out from under a large hard drive rack. She saw the Spirals slowly spreading out. Nervously looking around as they pressed deeper and deeper into the maze-like jumble of computers and wires. She watched as one leaned down and pushed aside some hanging wires as he peeked behind them. She grinned.

At her growled command the electrical spirits within the wires put down their thoughts of painting messages. They gave up their movement and instead concentrated only on being. The buildup created a massive surge within the wires. The Spiral howled in agony as sparks flew and danced around him. His tangled black fur stood on end, small blue sparks popping and sizzling off him. Smoke hissed from his mouth as more wires burst and sparked. Blood leaked from his nose as he babbled in pain.

snarled one of the other Dancers as they both rushed towards their suffering friend. As they approached Syntax leapt from her hiding place. A silent streak of black in the darkness of the jungle. Around her the lights suddenly blinked off, plunging this section of the room into near total darkness save for the sparks dancing about Pussclaw. The closest Dancer gurgled in shock as her claws tore into his throat. He lashed out for her, but she was gone already. He tried to call out to his ally, but only a hissed gurgle escaped his wounded throat. He collapsed to his knees as he fought for air. Syntax landed softly on the polished floor. She unplugged a thick power cable and whispered softly to it.

I am Rapes-the-World, snarled the last Dancer as two flashes of green fire split the darkness. He raised his flame coated claws as he spat out curses at her. The powers of the Wyrm call to you, corrupted one. They seek your soul. Allow me to send it to them! He turned at the sound of a few hushed words. He snorted as he saw her crouching silently in the corner with only a cable for protection. Feel the fires bitch, he hissed as he raised his flaming hands towards her.

Syntax suddenly lifted the thick black cable up. It seemed to harden and straighten in her grasp. The large metal prongs twisted and sharpened into three sharp copper points. Sharp flashes of blue sparks danced and hissed between the tightly clustered spikes. Rapes-the-World hissed in surprised fear as she hurled the spear straight at his chest. The metal blades bit deep, but the powerful electrical surge bit deeper. He wailed as he dropped to his knees. The green fire on his claws danced wildly as sputtering blue sparks coursed across his skin. He reached up and jerked the cable spear from his chest as he collapsed weakly to the floor.

Syntax sprang forward again in another silent leap. She dropped atop the Spiral with the wounded neck. Forcing him to the ground as her teeth found his throat. He whimpered in fear as her fangs cut deep into his rancid, oily, flesh. She twisted her head around with a snarl as she ripped out his throat. She spat aside the bloody remains with a disgusted hiss. The Dancer collapsed to the floor, blood frothing forth from the fatal wound. The sounds of the jungle suddenly changed. Without even thinking Syntax sprang away, even as another shape hissed down on where she had been.

You're fast for a Glass Walker, hissed the shape with a chuckle as it stood. Syntax snarled as she eyed the new foe. The female was slim and unimposing. However her right forearm was no longer that of a human, it was the powerful and clawed arm of a werewolf. The woman's hazel green eyes danced with hatred as she smiled at Syntax. From the side Syntax saw the advance of the robed figure. He too grinned at her with dead, emotionless eyes. He held up a bloody lump of muscle in his gore coated hand. It was a human heart. His voice hissed out quietly to her.

Don't be afraid. We all dieeven heroes.


Let me get this straight, said Mr. Barnes as he looked around the factory with a smirk. All of those, he vaguely waved his hand at the Dancers that were milling around the catwalks, are trying to catch their scent? You're literally going to try and track by scent?

Kendar stood silent and puffed on his cigarette. His gleaming yellow eyes narrowed slightly as they peered out from under his fedora. Inside of the pockets of his trench coat his hands curled into fists. Gorefist sensed his coming anger. She turned to glare at the ape, the sight of her milky dead eye causing the monkey to step back from her slightly. Gorefist sneered at him as he did so and turned back to watch the trackers. One of them suddenly raised his head and shouted down.

The scent goes to the roof and disappears, we don't know where!

What did he just say, muttered Mr. Barnes. The ape being unable to understand the tongue of the Garou. Kendar slowly turned to look at the pale faced, middle aged, monkey.

Where did they go from the roof? The scent goes away.

Oh, that. Mr. Barnes chuckled and shook his head. They hopped off into the parking lot before they disappeared. Kendar's eyes narrowed as his back straightened. Despite the fact he towered well over a foot taller then Mr. Barnes the foolish monkey didn't look the least bit fearful. I suppose I should have mentioned that already then? Sorry, I don't often track people by sniffing the ground.

Everyone outside, now! Homid or lupus forms! Kendar turned and stormed through the doors, champing at his cigar in annoyance. Where was it that they landed? Mr. Barnes waved vaguely over at one section of the parking lot. The trackers snarled as they turned and ran over to the area. Kendar turned back to Mr. Barnes. That cost us time. Lord Fer-guath has told me that time is of the essence.

So very sorry, said Mr. Barnes with a slight tilt of his head. I must not have read up enough on how to be a wolf. My fault entirely. Kendar glanced over at Gorefist, her lips curled back in a snarl of disgust. Suddenly Kendar felt an odd twinge from his pocket. He reached into his coat and drew out a mummified ear. Mr. Barnes recoiled slightly at the sight of the thing as Kendar pressed it to his lips. he muttered, that is ghastly.

growled Kendar deeply, we shall have the scent of Dominic soon. What is it you wished to tell me? Kendar quickly lifted the ear up to his own.

They have discovered information about the operation besides the creation of the chemical, Fer-guath's voice hissed faintly through the ear. They have also investigated one of the sites and learned about the preparations there. They shall all be heading back to that warehouse location the monkeys gave you. Kendar felt his teeth grind together at the thought.

But all I sent there was a few-

Worry not. Endelon is with them now, and they shall not stay. You must make haste there to trap Dominic and destroy him. Kendar nodded at the words, then he paused and glanced at Mr. Barnes.

Lord, what other use does the corporation have for us?

Now? Very little, they have played their part. Nothing can stop the ritual now. Just make sure that Dominic is dead by dawn. Kendar nodded again and slid the ear back into his pocket. He turned with a cold glare back to Mr. Barnes who shrugged slightly.

Kendar shouted loudly and the head of the pack doing the tracking peered up at him. We move now to the warehouse! Everyone get moving, now!

I just love those names, chuckled Mr. Barnes with a grin. Kendar turned slowly to look back at the monkey. Though don't you ever run out? I mean, how many of you can you really call Fleabag before it gets confusing. Mr. Barnes laughed and shook his head. Sorry, sorry, just a joke.

Contact your master for me, I wish to speak with him. Mr. Barnes shrugged. He pulled out a cell phone and quickly dialed a number. He handed the phone to Kendar. Gorefist walked up behind Mr. Barnes. An odd and eager smile on her face. Her good eye glinting anxiously.

This is Sands, came the crisp reply from the other end.

This is Kendar.

Ah yes, the head collector, said Sands with a small chuckle. I remember you. Still the leader, eh? Not been ripped apart yet? That's good. How goes the operation? Have you managed to get the Garou yet? I really need it done quickly you know.

I don't work for you, monkey. Your worm monkey friend has cost me precious time and patience. How valuable is he to you? Mr. Barnes grew suddenly tense. Gorefist pressed herself up against him as she hugged him from behind. He tried to shrug her off unsuccessfully.

Now see here Kendar, I don't think you understand what-

No! It is you who doesn't understand. He is a fool and he is weak. As are all monkeys. Barnes twisted in Gorefist's grip, his face becoming angry. You humans think yourselves better? We wolves know how to deal with failure.

Get off me you freaky bitch! Barnes elbowed backward, slamming his arm hard into her gut. Gorefist hissed in annoyance. But instead of letting go she suddenly bit down on his ear. Mr. Barnes howled in surprised pain as her teeth sank deep into the flesh, blood gushing out around her lips.

I agree, Mr. Barnes is in need of proper disciplinary action, sighed Mr. Sands. Kendar grinned as he watched Gorefist jerk her head back, ripping Mr. Barne's ear off in a shower of blood. But I assure you I shall deal with that in my own time and way. You would do well not to hurt him. I consider him a valuable asset of my company.

And why should I give a shit? Mr. Barnes staggered away from Gorefist. He growled in anger as one of his hands reached up to clutch at the bloody stump where his ear had once been. He spun on her in rage, his eyes flaring yellow. A strange green mucus seemed to start to seep out of his skin. The substance dissolving and burning at his clothes and hair.

Listen to me you flea bitten, inbred, freak. I don't know what they tell you down in those sewers and caves of yours. But me and mine are the true forces of the Wyrm's power in this city! Gorefist smirked at Mr. Barnes. She pulled aside one side of her leather jacket to reveal her large breast. She licked her teeth slightly as she ran the bloody remains of his ear along it, coating her small stiff nipple with his blood. If you think you're more important to the master then we are you're a bigger fool then even Barnes.

Tell me something Sands, snarled Kendar as he seemed to start to grow larger. You keep laughing about it, and I have to know. The shadow fell across Barnes. Gorefist smiled eagerly, her good eye growing almost as wide as the dead white orb next to it. Barnes spun around and looked up. His jaw fell open in terror. Why you think I'm called The Head Collector!

The last sounds Robert Sands heard through the phone were a horrible scream followed by the wet tearing of flesh. Kendar slowly closed his fist, crushing the tiny phone in it as though it were a child's toy. He held up the head and chuckled at it as he dropped it into a large pouch that hung from his waist. Gorefist walked forward with a laugh. He grabbed her and easily picked her up from the ground as his rough tongue lapped the blood from her breast.


taken a cab and not had to put up with all this darn walking. We could have even stopped for a bite to eat, literally stopped and eaten. I knew I should have gotten myself a second hot dog, but nooo, I had to get some for you guys. It might even have been better if I didn't need to keep an eye on you. Hell, it literally would have been better. I could have given this walking joke the laugh and flown. I could have been there by now, y'know?

The three walked through the Penumbra of Detroit. Tall office buildings stretched into the sky, only visible as ghostly outlines formed of pattern webs. Old houses long ago demolished stood bright and strong still. The sky overhead was a strange maelstrom of incredibly thick gray pollution and crystal clear skies that let the stars shine down with indescribable brilliance. Charlie glanced up at the thin sliver of moon in the sky. The brightly glowing moon almost seemed to be smirking about some joke known only to her.

Jo continued on with her description about why things would have been better if they hadn't had to travel through the Penumbra. However Charlie had totally shredded his clothes when he had gone to crinos. When faced with the thought of wandering around half naked through Detroit Charlie had happily agreed to just walk back to Syntax's lair this way. Dominic had also agreed, deciding it would be a safer and more effective method of travel. They had both tuned out Jo about eight blocks back.

They came out into the warehouse district Syntax occupied near the corner of Arnold Drive and Benedict Boulevard. The buildings here had little spiritual impact, and thus the area appeared more like a vast and barren stretch of ground. The ground burnt and ruined by the effects of Weaver and Wyrm.

From this perspective Syntax's lair took on a whole different light, thought Charlie with a touch of surprise. The silvery webs of the warehouse spun upward in intricate and artistic loops and spirals. The curving and flowing roof of the structure was offset by sporadic clusters of incoming webs. These message webs stretched away in all directions. Little pulses of glowing blue danced and moved along the delicate silvery strands. Bringing information in and out of the web. Charlie paused for a moment and looked at the structure with a slight touch of awe.

Move it pup! Charlie jerked back to his senses as he saw Dominic spring forward towards the web. He quickly ran after him, then came up short as he saw what had alerted Dominic. There, laying about a hole shredded through the webbing, lay the shattered bodies of some Pattern Spiders. Charlie peered through the hole and gasped in shock. Broken bits of Pattern Spiders were strewn all over the interior. Some still feebly twitched. Others lay motionless in pools of leaking blue blood.

What the hell, muttered Jo as she looked around at the carnage. The webs had been torn, and lay in tattered disarray. A few pattern spiders weakly roamed around trying to repair the damage. Their bodies still bearing the marks of their own wounds. Claw marks. Teeth marks. Bloody gashes torn brutally across their bodies.

gasped Charlie in fear. Dominic snarled as he drew forth Bonespur and stepped sideways. The air splitting around him as he reentered the real world. Jo and Charlie quickly followed him through. On this side the warehouse appeared mostly untouched. Only a hole in the wall and a few smashed boxes hinting at the ferocious butchery that had happened to the spirits. Dominic sprinted to the stairs. His long black coat billowed around him as he took the steps three at a time.

Charlie burst into the darkened computer room only moments after Dominic. He winced at the sight of the place. Monitors lay smashed and shattered upon the floor. Others had had their screens shattered in, small crackling fires burning within their broken shells. Wires had been ripped out of the backs of machines, their shredded ends occasionally popping or sparking. Whole banks of computers had been shoved over, the shattered pieces strewn across the floor. An acrid tangy smell clung to the air. A scent of burnt ozone from all the small electrical fires. A trace of smoke. A hint of spilled blood.

Oh Gaia, gasped Charlie as he looked around, stunned by the desecration of the room. Dominic continued to move through the room, his klaive at the ready and his eyes alert. Jo stepped up next to Charlie and looked around the room quietly. He shook his head. What could have done this?

One guess, said Jo stiffly as she pointed at one of the far walls. Charlie followed her finger to look at the large symbol scrawled on the wall. A symbol drawn in slowly drying blood. A symbol of a twisted and maddened spiral. The mark of the Black Spiral Dancers.

Dominic's voice was soft and cold as he dropped down to his knees behind a shattered rack of monitors. Jo and Charlie quickly rushed over to see. Dominic was kneeling next to the crumpled body of an elderly man. Lord Moros Argent, his throat slashed open and his chest torn apart. A bloody cavity marked where his heart had been forcibly torn from his body. The splattered red gore crusted his white shirt and snowy white skin. Charlie gagged slightly and turned away, unable to stand the sight. There are two dead Dancers over near the back corner, said Dominic as he stood up. One electrocuted to death, the other with a torn open throat.

Syntax didn't go down quietly, Jo murmured with a nod. She wouldn't have let them harm her jungle without a fight.

I didn't see her body.

Jo frowned and looked around curiously. Charlie slowly turned back towards them. He too looked about slowly. Yet there was no sign of the stern Glass Walker. She had to have been here, hissed Jo as she slowly circled through the computers. There's no way she wandered off and left the place with Argent.

Then where is she, asked Charlie as he bent over to peer under some tables. Do you think she was able to escape?

No way. If she had run off she'd be back here by now trying to fix things. Jo cursed as she continued towards the dark back corner of the room. Heading towards the dead Dancers.

Maybe they hunted her down and killed her in the streets, offered Dominic with a shrug as he followed her. Charlie scowled at the calm in Dominic's voice. Didn't he even feel anything for the death of his old friend?

Charlie walked back over to Argent. He knelt next to him, steeling himself against the horror of the great hero's passing. Charlie carefully wiped the blood from his face and folded Argent's hands restfully upon his belly. Charlie then slowly shifted into his lupus form. The brown wolf tilted its head back and started to emit a long, low, and mournful howl. Dominic looked back at him, then turned his dark gaze to Argent as Charlie mourned for the hero's passing.

Soon a second howl joined the first, a mournful cry for the fallen.


Snapback pulled the truck up next to the warehouse. Leona quickly sprang out the instant the stranger opened the door. She was more then happy to be out of the accursed driving machine. Even if soon she would be back in the room of blinking lights. However her joy was short lived as her sensitive ears caught the sad wail of a Howl of Mourning. One voice speaking of a great hero, the other speaking of a friend. She stiffened as her ears dropped back against her head in worry.

What's wrong doggy, chuckled Snapback, still taking far too much pleasure out of her time in a leash and collar. Leona snarled at him, frustrated at the limitation of human hearing. However even as she thought that she saw the stranger pause and cock his head slightly.

Something happened, he said softly as he turned and hastened into the warehouse. Leona right on his heels. Snapback cursed as he pulled himself out of the truck and trundled after them. They burst through the door. Leona caught the scent of blood and the sound of the howl coming from upstairs. The howl quickly died away as Dominic appeared on the stairway, klaive in hand, his face drawn and slightly pale. The Shadow Lord frowned slightly at the sight of them and then grunted.

Get up here, we have problems. The stranger lightly ran up the steps with Leona and Snapback close behind. The first thing Leona saw upon entering was the slightly built young man wearing shredded black slacks. Her mouth split open in a happy grin as she barked in loud greetings to her packmate. Charlie looked up in surprise as she bounded across the room and rushed against him. He staggered slightly as she rested her paws on his chest and growled happily at him.

hey there Leona, he managed while trying to push her off. She almost laughed at his nervousness. Probably the poor human didn't even realize she was only being happy. How strange it must be to not really know the difference between one growl and another. Snapback came up slower and swatted Charlie roughly across the back.

Shocked to see you lived, boy. Both Snapback and Leona looked Charlie over with a bit of surprise. He had grown much since last they saw him. His once nervous stance was now replaced by a more confident posture. His shoulders no longer hunched, instead they were thrown back and more square. A long curving scar traced down through his cheek and curled sharply under his jaw, adding a touch of menace to his once boyish face. Humph, looks like you grew a set of balls since last we saw you.

said Charlie with a weak smile as he massaged his sore shoulder. I'm happy to see you're both okay too. They then all turned to watch Dominic and the stranger. Leona fell silent as she spotted the dead form of Argent on the floor nearby. Dominic seemed to be discussing what he had learned at the factory. The stranger described the cave he had discovered under the lake.

But where's Syntax, said the stranger as he again looked around the ruined computer room. Leona looked around too, realizing there was no sign of the Glass Walker. Charlie turned and slowly walked back over towards Argent's body.

Missing, and we have no idea how to find her. Dominic snarled as he stroked his fingers along his short beard. If only we could learn what happened during the fight, then we-

Oh God! They all spun around to look at Charlie as he staggered back a few steps. His hand cupped over his mouth and his face having gone pale white. His eyes were fixed on a back corner of the room, they were wide with horror. Leona quickly scampered forward and followed his gaze. A dead Black Spiral Dancer lay on the ground. His throat torn open and thick pools of blood coagulating around him. One of his eye-sockets had been ripped apart, and was leaking blood from the empty cavity. A large black raven was perched on his nose. Her beak dug away at his second eye-socket, peeling back the dead gray flesh as it started to pluck out the eye. Dominic walked up to stand next to Leona and he too watched the scene.

Good idea Jo, there might be a clue, he said with a nod and smile.

Oh God There was a gagging and splattering noise as Charlie collapsed to his knees and lost it. Dominic glanced over his shoulder, surprised at the pup's reaction. Charlie choked and spat out some of the last dregs while gasping in a weak voice. Oh God, she alreadyshe ate one. Why does she need the second?

She did say she was hungry, offered Dominic with a shrug. There was another moan from Charlie as he again retched. The raven tilted its head back as it slurped down the last globules of the eye. It then cawed as it hopped off the body and shifted once again into the skinny dark shape of Jo. For a few moments it seemed as though she looked guiltily at the stranger. Her dark eyes seeming pained and worried. Then she shook her head and the moment passed, leaving Leona to wonder if she'd seen it in the first place.

Y'know, I sometimes literally love my job. Jo smacked her lips slightly as she hopped up to sit on a table. Once again there were a few more sick retches from Charlie. But as tasty as that was, it wasn't too informative. There was a fight. That robed Dancer with the flaming klaives and his pals burst in here. He killed Argent while the others attacked Syntax. She killed two and seriously wounded another. But Again Leona caught a scent of unease from Jo. Again she spotted that odd guilty look at the stranger. But then some others showed up and surrounded her. That's all I could see.

No body, muttered the stranger with a frown. Why is there no body?

We are left knowing as little as we did before, muttered Dominic.

Statement: That is an incorrect assumption. There was a wild hissing sound as one of the computer screens suddenly flared to life. Jo looked over in surprise at the suddenly active computer.

Wow, who would have thought that still worked?

Statement: Syntax did devise the jungle with the capability to survive even near lethal attacks. We shall endure. Leona growled slightly at the strange shimmering spider that formed on the screen. Its shiny blue body resting atop a wild pattern of weaving intricate lines.

Who are you, and why was I wrong, snarled Dominic as he walked over to the computer.

Answer to primary query: I am Blue Storm. Answer to secondary query: I possess information that Syntax deemed vitally important. It was, by her classification, the heart of their plan. Their; being identified as the Black Spiral Dancers tribe. Query: Do you wish this information?

Yes, I wish it! Tell me the plan now! Dominic leaned in close to the screen, his dark eyes glaring at the shimmering spider.

Statement: I cannot draw inferences from data, I may only state facts. Solution: I shall print out a copy of the data that you may infer from it as you may. There was a hiss and a few more sparks. Then came a low hum as one of the printers started to work. Dominic grunted in satisfaction as he walked over to retrieve the paper. The stranger stepped forward and looked down at the spider.

Tell me Blue Storm, do you know what happened to Syntax?

Answer to query: Yes. The stranger frowned slightly after it became apparent this was all the spider was planning to say. He growled at the screen, his hands clenching. Even as he raised his fist Jo quickly stepped in the way and smiled sweetly at the screen.

Describe what happened please.

Statement: The Dancer in robes and the female who was not a Dancer beat her horribly. They then gathered her up and departed. At last sighting she was in poor health.

What female who was not a Dancer, asked the stranger with a frown.

Never mind that, said Jo loudly as she elbowed him in the side. He stepped back with a sigh as he let her move him away from the computer. Don't you think we should be trying to find where they've taken Syntax? Jo turned back to the computer and began talking again to Blue Storm.

They all turned to Dominic as he looked over the papers in his hands. Leona was shocked to note the slight tremor in the Shadow Lord's hands. Their shaking causing the papers to ruffle slightly. His eyes were filled with worry and a trace offear? Leona whined softly, uneasy with anything that could cause Dominic such concern.

How bad is it, asked Jo from her spot in front of the computer.

Dominic looked up from the sheets slowly. This is worse then I could have ever imagined.

Does anyone else smell that, came the quiet voice of the stranger. He twisted his head and moved nearer to the stairs. Leona padded towards him and sniffed slightly, then her ears dropped against her head as she too caught the scent.

The piercing cry warbled up from the warehouse below. The stranger quickly fell back from the stairway, his eyes warily watching it. Leona backed up with him, growling as she watched the door. Jo suddenly shouted in fear as she dove under a table for cover. Two large gray furred figures dropped through the hole in the roof. Their red eyes shone brightly as they glared about the dark room. There was another crash as a second hole was formed. Three more shapes dropped into the computer room.

Get out of here, I'll hold them! Dominic bellowed the order even as he drew out his klaive and turned towards the charging trio of Spirals. The doorway suddenly exploded inward as more dark shapes swarmed into the room. Their red eyes flashed as their fang filled mouths slavered. A tall figure stood ominously in the doorway. His yellow eyes glowing from the shadows under his fedora.

Now you die!


Holy shit, screeched Jo, it's Kendar!

Charlie felt a stab of dread pierce his heart with those few words. Kendar. The Head Collector. Champion of the Wyrm. His name was known even amongst the tribes. Many were the brave Garou who had died in battle against the dread warrior. They needed to get out of here, fast. But how?

The roof, we can use the roof, yelled Jo desperately.

The ronin's voice carried sharply over the mad warbles of the Black Spiral's as he leaped up onto a bank of computers and then sprang through one of the holes in the roof. Charlie growled as he allowed the primal call of Gaia to flow through him. Thick brown fur coated him as his body expanded to that of the wolf-man. He snarled as he sprang forward through the gap in the roof after the ronin. There was another set of roars as Leona and Snapback followed.

The night air had gone dead and calm. The electric feel of a storm hanging heavy about him. The rooftop was dark and silent. But Charlie could see the flashing red eyes of the many dark shapes that ringed the roof's edge. The ronin turned towards them, his dark eyes narrowing as he let his hands fall to his sides. He jerked his jaw slightly upward, his face set and grim.

Charlie, get to the truck, I'll clear the way. Charlie nodded nervously as the ronin started to slowly advance. Below them they heard a roar as Dominic sprang into battle below. But he had little time to worry about anything other then his own problems. A svelte and deadly looking Dancer advanced with a snarl towards them. Behind it the others followed. The Dancer's good eye blazed bright red, the other was a large milky white orb that saw nothing. The ronin paused as he eyed the advancing Dancers. Charlie saw him seem to falter slightly, his face growing slack, but then he whispered to himself. Evil triumphs

In a sudden blur of movement the ronin sprang forward. His tan trench coat flaring up around him as he sprang for the Dancers. The dead-eyed one snarled loudly as it lunged forward to meet him. The Dancer came in with her arms wide, her mouth ready to bite. Behind her charged two more, their eyes agleam with bloodlust. The ronin charged straight ahead, apparently unconcerned by his much larger opponent. He rushed her straight on, heading for her fangs as he pulled back an arm to strike. Charlie and Leona both snarled in fear as they started to rush forward.

The Dancer howled in victory as she pulled up short, jerking her head back as her arms swung in to rend him apart from both sides. But even as her claws approached him the ronin seemed to fade away, his body shrinking to that of a red furred wolf. The Dancer hissed in anger as her claws caught nothing but air. Even as he passed between her legs the wolf howled as it sprang upward and clamped its jaws onto the throat of one of the surprised Dancers charging behind, one eye. Again the ronin changed shape.

Even as he bite down hard the wolf seemed to swell in size, transforming into the larger and more primal wolf-form of the hispo. The biting force of his jaws vastly increased as his fangs grew longer even as he was biting down. The resulting force nearly tore the Dancer's head clean off as he collapsed in a shower of gore. The ronin continued to transform as he spun around and shoved his paw towards the gut of the second Dancer. His arm grew more muscular and longer as he thrust it forward. The paw transformed into a clawed hand that tore deeply into the Dancer's belly. The ronin howled as he assumed his crinos form and tore his bloody hand free of the Dancer's shredded abdomen.

Charlie gasped in awe at the awesome sight of the ronin's appearance. His massive body was covered in a thick, shaggy coat of red fur that did little to hide the finely honed muscles beneath it. The thick mane of hair around his head remained, and was still pulled back from his face by the piece of silk. His tawny lips spread back from gleaming white fangs as he snarled a loud challenge to the other Dancers. As one they swarmed towards him. The ronin sprang forward to meet their charge. Their black shapes flocked in to surround him, pulling away from the path to the truck.

Follow me, Charlie bellowed to Leona and Snapback as he charged the edge of the roof. He ran straight on, knowing that their only chance was to get out of this trap. A thin and emaciated Dancer leapt into his path, it's eyes flashing with the green glow of balefire. Charlie snarled as he swept out his hand in a quick backhand. His claws caught the Dancer across the chest, slashing four bloody gouges across the mottled gray skin. The Dancer howled as it fell back and Charlie again rushed on. Over the edge, get to the truck!

The small, tawny, shape of Leona sprinted past him in an easy burst of wolfish speed as she sprang over the edge and dropped from sight. Charlie was about to leap himself when a blast of searing agony tore across his left leg. He bellowed in pain as he dropped to his knees. He turned around and looked at his leg, he snarled in surprise at the black whip that was wrapped tightly around his calf. Sharp black spines protruded from the whip and were cutting deeply into his flesh. He looked back at the thin Dancer who held the vicious weapon, a sneering grin on its twisted face.

Snapback, help! Charlie twisted around and grabbed onto the whip. He felt the barbs rip into his hands as he tried to pull it off his legs. But the harder he pulled the deeper and tighter the thorns seemed to dig. He glanced up in confusion to the dark gray and black shape of Snapback. The hunched metis stood nearby, a strange look of fear and confusion in his narrow eyes. Charlie snarled as he felt a flash of anger pass through him at Snapback's bizarre hesitation. He grabbed the whip again and pulled hard on it, his claws shredding into the spongy whip as he howled in frustration. His calf was torn apart as he ripped and tore the whip out of him in bloody strips.

It do you no good, snarled the Dancer as he jerked his wrist and pulled the whip back to him. He stepped forward and raised the weapon again. Charlie rolled to the side as the whip slashed down with a snap onto the rooftop. The Dancer jerked it back again as Charlie rose to his feet. Suddenly Snapback sprang forward, his powerful arm lashing out to crash into the Dancer's face and send him sprawling away. Charlie looked over in confusion as Snapback turned and rushed towards him.

Get going, boy!

Charlie paused to glance beyond Snapback to the ronin. He gasped as he saw a massive Spiral wrap its arms around the ronin's chest. However, even as it started to tighten its hold he seemed to drop out of its grasp as he reverted to his homid state. The ronin dropped to his knees and quickly spun about. For a brief instant his hand transformed into sharpened claws before he slammed them hard into the Dancer's gut. The beast howled as the ronin tore his hand back out and leaped away. The other Dancers falling back from him in surprised fear.

We're leaving, Charlie bellowed to him as he made ready to leap. The ronin nodded as he turned to make his way for the roof's edge as well. It was then that Charlie noted the one-eyed Dancer raising her hands and pointing them towards him and Snapback. The ronin noted it at the same instant and sprang forward. The ronin's hand swept out and smacked down along the tops of her arms, throwing off the Dancer's aim. However amidst a spray of blood the Dancer's claws suddenly shot off her fingers and hissed through the air towards him and Snapback.

The talons slashed into his lower back and legs, tossing him off balance and sending him tumbling over the edge of the rooftop. As Charlie spun through the air he thought he heard the deep bellow of Snapback as he too was hit. Then there was a sharp flash of pain as he slammed down hard onto the pavement below. Charlie groaned as he lifted his head, he was laying in the far end of the alley from the truck. Snapback lay crumpled near him. He could see Leona, her tail stiff with worry, as she crouched in the back of the truck. Of the ronin there was no sign. He pushed himself to his feet, his legs flaring in pain as he placed weight upon them. Charlie groaned as he limped towards Snapback and shook him. The metis slowly lifted his head and growled.

What happened?

Just get moving, snapped Charlie as he turned and started to stagger towards the truck.

A section of the warehouse wall was shredded open. Thick wooden boards splintering apart as they were tossed into the alley. Charlie looked up in dread as six Black Spirals stepped through the hole, putting themselves between the truck and him. They growled eagerly as they spotted the two wounded wolves, their red eyes shining above their fang filled smiles.

Nice knowing you, boy, muttered Snapback, his hunched shoulders slumping in defeat, his hand reaching into his pouch. As the Dancers started forward a sudden reddish glow outlined their bodies. Charlie looked up as he heard the loud roar of a motor. The Dancers spun around in amazement as the truck sped towards them. There was a loud crunch as the rear bumper slammed into one of their chests. The other Dancers springing to the sides of the alley to avoid the impact. The truck rolled easily over the bellowing Dancer as it continued towards them. snarled Snapback in surprise.

I didn't know she could drive, said Charlie softly as the truck roared towards them.

She can't, hissed Snapback as he stumbled out of the way. Charlie cursed as he too tried to avoid the truck. However his left leg gave out under him, the muscles unable to cope with the rapid motion and the claw wounds. There was a loud screech as brakes were applied hard even as the car smashed into him. He groaned in pain as he was tossed to the ground. Snapback quickly hobbled over and pulled at his arm. Get into the back. Move it you weakling!

What do I do now? I hate this thing! Leona twisted about in the driver's seat, her eyes wide and fearful. Charlie suspected it was more from the experience of driving then the danger of the Dancers. He and Snapback weakly pulled themselves into the bed of the truck. Charlie happily collapsed, his legs feeling as though red hot pokers had been driven through them. Snapback crawled up to the window in the back of the cab and shouted at Leona.

Shift the stick on the right of the wheel two notches down, then floor it! Leona pulled at the gear shift as the Dancers howled and charged forward. Floor it damnit!

I am flooring it, snarled Leona angrily. The Dancers closed in quickly, their fangs frothing with greenish bile as they slavered in anticipation of the kill. Charlie snarled as he forced himself to stand, at least he'd go down fighting. I've been flooring it!

The other it, the other it!!!

This one? The truck suddenly jerked forward with a wild start. Charlie cursed as he was thrown off balance and fell back to slam into the back of the truck. Snapback was shoved away from the window and slid across the metal to smash into him. The truck charged ahead, again Charlie heard a loud thump as Leona managed to run over yet another Black Spiral.
Suddenly his shoulder was torn open as a pair of claws were driven deeply into it. Charlie howled in pain as a large Dancer pulled itself into view. Its face and body were marked with stains and scuffs, suggesting it had been driven over and caught at the truck as it was dragged underneath. Another Dancer howled in glee as it sprang from the side of the alley to latch onto the passenger door. It laughed as, with a shriek of metal, it tore the door off its hinges and tossed it away. The truck jerked wildly as the Dancer reached in for Leona.

Even as they passed the far corner of the warehouse another figure entered the fray. Springing from the warehouse roof, the ronin's tattered coat fluttered around him as he sailed through the air. He slammed down on roof of the truck, his blood spattered hands scrabbling for a handhold.

Charlie was pulled back hard as the Dancer holding him used him as leverage to pull itself up. Reacting instinctively Charlie swiveled his head around and clamped his jaws down on the Dancer's wrist. His teeth dug deep into the putrid flesh and ground at the bone. The Dancer howled in pain even as Snapback rose up and struck it hard across the side of the head. The powerful blow tore its claws from Charlie's shoulder, and its wrist from his mouth. Blood sprayed from its torn face as the Dancer was cast away from the speeding truck.

At the same moment the ronin pulled himself off the roof to slide over the windshield and onto the hood. He reached over and grabbed onto the frame of the window, his hands practically in the face of the Dancer there. It paused in surprise as it turned to snarl at him. But the ronin quickly levered himself up and snapped out his legs as he smashed through the windshield in a shower of glass. Continuing the motion around his feet slammed hard into the Dancer's chest, knocking the shocked creature off the truck to collide hard with the alley wall behind it. The ronin then quickly halted the motion and landed on the running board.

We have to go faster, shouted Charlie as he slowly lifted his head to peer behind them. There were around eight large, dark, shapes sprinting after them. The narrowed red eyes of the Dancers burned with hatred as they pushed themselves to move faster after their fleeing prey. Their powerful muscles and feral bodies allowing them to move as fast, and even faster then the truck. Faster, Leona, faster!

I'm flooring it, screamed Leona in frustration as the truck continued down the alley in a wobbly pattern, its engine making a horrible grinding noise.

Shift gears! Shift the gears, Snapback ordered as he pulled himself towards the back of the cab again. He reached through the window and quickly shifted the stick. Charlie breathed out a sigh of relief as the motor started to run smoother and the gap between them and the Dancers started to grow again. Snapback also grunted in satisfaction. Well, now the hard part's over

Is that the street, asked the ronin softly as he looked ahead of them. Charlie turned to look and gulped in fear as he spotted the busy road ahead.

Go slower Leona, slower!

You said faster!

Shift the gears back, bellowed Snapback as he again reached into the cab.

Oh Gaia preserve, muttered the ronin as he pulled himself into the passenger seat and held on for dear life.

With a wild roar the truck shot out of the alley and into the road. Charlie was tossed back as Leona made a wild left turn, the tires squealing as they ground on the pavement. Even as Charlie tried to rise again he was tossed to the side as Leona made a sharp swerve to the left. There was a loud blaring of a horn as a semi sped past on their right. The massive rig only missing them by a few feet. Charlie looked back in wide-eyed terror as the truck jackknifed and flipped over on its side. It then occurred to him that either that truck and all the cars ahead of it were heading the wrong direction or

We're on the wrong side of the road!

Change lanes! Change lanes!

I did! How do I stop?

We're on the wrong side of the road!

Don't stop now!

Snapback tried to reach the wheel, but could only brush at it with his claws. To add to the problem Leona saw him coming and quickly let go and leaned back. The truck suddenly jerked to the right and clipped the back end of a Beetle, sending the smaller vehicle careening across two other lanes of traffic. There was a loud bang as the truck bottomed out upon leaping over the median, sparks spraying out as they scraped over the concrete. Snapback cursed loudly as he was thrown back from the window and tumbled across the bed of the truck to slam into Charlie.

Ease up on the gas, snarled the ronin as he reached across to grab at the wheel. The truck jerked around slightly as he weaved it at high speeds through traffic. Slow down!

How do I slow down?

Get off me, boy! Charlie was shoved to the side as Snapback sat up. There was a sudden clanging of metal and a large blue object flipped through the air and cracked into Snapback's face and shoulder. He grunted in surprise as he was thrown down again. Charlie looked back at the mailbox as it crashed to the ground amidst a shower of letters.

Brake! Brake! Charlie shouted the words as he realized they were swerving around on the sidewalk. The ronin had shouldered Leona back as he tried to drive, she stared in white eyed terror out the shattered windshield.

This one?

The ronin's cry came a split second too late as Leona reached over and shoved down on the brakethe parking brake. There was a terrible squeal as smoke suddenly sprayed out of the back tires. The truck twisted about and was suddenly brought to a bone jarring halt as they smashed into a light post. The few remaining pieces of the windshield were torn apart as the ronin was sent hurtling through it to hit with a sickening crunch against the cement pole. Charlie was hurled forward and slammed hard into the back of the cab, his face shattering against the rear window. Snapback was tossed over the side to crash hard against the concrete front of the building nearby.

There was a click as Leona undid her seat-belt.

I hate these things, she snarled as she leaped out of the cab. Are you all okay? Charlie nodded as he sat up, bits of glass embedded in the skin of his face. The ronin coughed up some blood as he pulled himself up by grabbing the hood. Snapback only rolled over and looked bleakly at the smoking wreck.

If you ever try to drive again, warn me. So I can run away first!

Charlie nodded, in full agreement with that plan as he slowly stood up, his legs still throbbing in sharp flashes of pain. Then he heard the screams. He looked over in surprise as cars screeched to a stop and pedestrians yelled in terror. He looked back at himself and Snapback, both still in crinos form. The humans took one look at the towering werewolves and fled in terror, many abandoning their cars in favor of flight on foot. The nighttime street becoming a clogged confusion of panic and fear. The ronin snarled as he pushed himself to his feet. He too was a sight, his rust colored hair was now stained bright red with blood. His coat had been torn and shredded apart. A few nasty gashes marked his arms and chest. He stumbled up to the passenger door of the truck and pulled out his wooden box from where it had been stored.

We need to get out of sight quickly, follow me. His voice, though soft, carried a unquestioningly forceful tone of command. He turned and grabbed Snapback, helping the wounded metis to move. Charlie weakly limped out of the truck where Leona rushed to aid him. Both she and the ronin transformed into crinos as well, to an accompanying chorus of louder screams from the few pedestrians who were standing, frozen with fear, in the street.

Where's Jo? What happened to Dominic?

Dominic chose to stay, muttered the ronin, he shall face what he wished to.

And Jo?

If there's one thing I know, it's that she can take care of herself. The quartet of wounded and tired warriors fled down the first alley they came to. But despite their own wounds and the danger of their situation, Charlie found himself worrying about Dominic and Jo. And about what had been on those papers to so frighten the usually coldly cynical Shadow Lord. He suspected if he lived through the night he too would be terrified by what information Syntax and Argent had died for.


Holy shit, screeched Jo, it's Kendar! She looked around in wide eyed fear as she searched for a way out. Dominic knew she'd have one, she always did. The Corax never entered a room without planning at least three escape routes. The roof, we can use the roof, yelled Jo desperately.

The ronin's voice carried sharply over the mad warbles of the Black Spirals as he leaped up onto a bank of computers and from there onto the roof. Charlie and the others quickly followed after him, all of them seeking to escape the trap. But Dominic waited as the dark shadows with red glowing eyes circled in around him. He knew the others would need someone to buy them time to get away. His own mouth split into a wicked grin as he watched the red eyed shadows come. He pulled open his coat, the black material swinging out as he pulled forth Bonespur. The silvery gleam of his klaive casting an eerie and pale glow across his face.

Who dares to face me? Dominic's eyes narrowed as he looked at the shadowy face of the figure in the doorway. Glowing yellow eyes met his stare evenly as a fang filled mouth slowly grinned. Dominic tensed in readiness. Then suddenly another figure sprang from the darkness to land in front of him.

I am Wyrm-mate, Ahroun of The Hive and I shall taste your blood, Render! There was a sudden growl from behind him and Wyrm-mate went stiff as he twisted his head around. A clenched fist smashed hard into his face, Dominic heard the crunching of bone as the Dancer was hurled back into a row of speakers. Kendar slowly turned back to look at Dominic, his yellow eyes gleaming. He snarled low in his throat, a message to the other Black Spirals to stay out of this fight. The dark shapes hissed as they fell back, circling along the walls and waiting.

I am Kendar, the Head Collector. You are he who rends the darkness, you are Dominic. Let us see if you are half of what you claim. Kendar tore open his coat and reached inside. He pulled forth a five foot long sword from within the dark recesses. The thick blade was covered with horrible carvings of screaming faces. Each of the faces' lips were sharpened to razor edges, and their mouths were filled with dagger-like teeth. The jagged edges of the blade gleamed dully, but despite the dirt it was obvious that the edge itself was kept razor sharp.

Kendar hefted the heavy blade with a grunt as he transformed. Soon he held the blade almost casually in one clawed hand. His massive crinos form stood around ten feet tall, however his hunched posture made it hard to be sure. His leathery hide was devoid of any fur, except for wiry tufts on his pointed ears. His grayish-black flesh was covered with many old and jagged scars. Disgusting green poison dripped from his maw as he snarled. Dominic raised Bonespur, the rune of duty gleaming brightly as he transformed. Black fur sprouted across his body, two white streaks shot down his back and a tuft of white burst across his chest as his body grew into full battle form. He charged forward with a loud roar.

Now you die, Render, bellowed Kendar as he strode forward and swung his blade about in a sweeping blow. Dominic was forced to come to a standstill and spring back to avoid the stroke. There was a haunting howl as the blade cut through the air. It almost seemed as though each of the morbid faces carved on the blade was screeching in pain and suffering. Kendar quickly reversed his swing and cut down and across again, forcing Dominic to continue to retreat. He snarled in annoyance as Kendar repeated the deadly pattern, that of a figure eight, with powerful swings of his blade. It was a simple technique, but it left few methods of piercing its defenses with his much shorter knife. Your head shall be mine!

Kendar suddenly lunged, his hulking body moving far quicker then seemed possible. Dominic dropped to a knee and narrowly avoided the sweep of the ghastly blade. But then a massive hand spun out and tore into his side. Picking Dominic up and tossing him like a leaf to flip through the air and over a row of monitors. He smashed down hard atop a computer console, the keyboard shattering under the impact. He snarled in pain as he rolled off the console to the floor, his entire right side having been easily torn open by Kendar's mighty blow.

Damn man, I wouldn't let him hit you again. That was literally bad. Dominic glanced over in surprise at the dark haired figure who crouched in the shadows under a table nearby.

He had thought her already gone. You have to get out of here. Now! He hissed urgently. A loud roar alerted Dominic to his danger. Kendar came leaping over the monitors, his blade held over his head. Dominic rolled to the side and only barely avoided the sweeping down stroke of the blade. It seemed to howl in frustration as it missed its target and tore a deep gash into the metal plated floor. Dominic spun onto his feet quickly and lunged in at Kendar's right side, hoping the trapped blade would leave the Dancer open to attack.

However Kendar almost contemptuously heaved his blade up again, shredding apart the floor as he swung it up and across at Dominic. The Shadow lord quickly blocked, a shrieking spray of silver sparks burst brightly in the darkness as the two blades snarled against one another. Dominic felt his whole right arm go numb from the massive impact. His right side exploded into greater agony as torn muscles were tensed. Such was the power of the blow that despite blocking it he was tossed back, staggering to keep his footing.

Is this the Render? Is this the terror of the tribes? You are nothing! Kendar's gleaming yellow eyes stared in cold hatred at Dominic as he advanced. His blade wailed through the air as it once again danced in the sweeping figure eight pattern before him. Dominic quickly fell back, knowing that he couldn't possibly match the Dancer for power. Nor could he risk stepping into range of that swinging blade. He raised his klaive as he continued to retreat, his dark eyes searching for any sign of weakness from the powerful warrior. But the pattern was simple, deadly, and constant. Despite the obvious weight of the sword Kendar appeared to hold it as easily as Dominic did Bonespur. Kendar's deep and gravelly voice snarled above the constant screams of the faces on the blade. Come Render, show me why I should fear you. You fight as would a sniveling girl pup!

Dominic moved in a blur of black with streaks of white. He sprang up and pushed himself off a large metal cabinet. As he arced over Kendar's head he twisted to lash down. But Kendar moved just as quickly. Swinging up his huge left arm as though to swat a fly. Dominic's blade slashed along the thick scaly hide of the arm, but he didn't have enough leverage to cause anything but the smallest of scratches. Kendar's blow however rocketed into his side, smashing him to the ground and popping apart a rib. Dominic gasped for breath even as he heard the descending wail of Kendar's sword.

With a sudden surge of aching muscles he pushed himself backwards and rolled to his feet. Kendar's blade tore again into the floor, and just as quickly ripped out again in a powerful upswing. Dominic barely blocked in time, his whole arm shaking with the pain of the blow as he was again tossed back. This time to crash onto the ground and roll back to his feet again. Kendar chuckled as he again started his slow advance, his blade hissing before him in the figure eight pattern. Again Dominic was forced to retreat, giving way before the seemingly unstoppable juggernaut.

Fall before me Render, beg for mercy and decry Gaia as the whore she is. Then I might allow you to live. Get on your knees!

I kneel to no one, man or wolf!

Then prepare to die, Render! Dominic heard the hissing behind him and knew he was approaching the back wall where many Dancers lurked, watching this battle with eager eyes. If he backed into them this fight would be quickly over. He growled as he stopped retreating and held his klaive at the ready as he stood in a large clearing of shattered computer equipment. The towering and unstoppable beast continued in slowly and surely, his great blade howling and screaming in the darkness. His yellow eyes gleaming with the perceived victory.

The glowing eyes.

The sweeping blade.

The passing of the blade before that ferocious glare.

Dominic grinned coldly as he raised Bonespur and slowly advanced.

It was a complicated maneuver developed by a great Shadow Lord bladesmaster and known as The Shadow Blade Step' The principal was that every time a blade and arm were swept before the eyes there was a brief moment of time when the attacker was unable to see his opponent. A moving blind spot.

If one was skilled, and gutsy, enough to attempt to move within this blind spot's shadow' as it swung, then it was possible to circle around your opponent unseen. It was a risky move at best, but when both blade and arm were thick, massive things, it was a risk that was worth a chance. Kendar advanced, his blade sweeping in the figure eight pattern.

To Kendar's shock Dominic seemed to just suddenly disappear. His great humming blade fell silent as he paused in dumbfounded confusion. Then he bellowed in agony as a klaive was jammed deep into his back. Dominic twisted Bonespur and tore it out to the side, slashing a deep gouge into Kendar's back. The fearsome warrior bawled in pain and dropped to his knees. Dominic sneered as he raised his blade to finish the job.

Kendar suddenly twisted around, his arm sweeping out to smash into Dominic's chest. The blow felt like the impact of a wrecking ball and sent Dominic flying back to crash down hard upon the floor. He coughed up a bit of blood as he snarled and pushed himself back to his feet. He heard a loud growl and looked up to see Kendar picking up a vast metal cabinet of machinery. The Black Spiral roared as he hurled the case at him.

Dominic sprang backwards and sprawled to the ground as the heavy cabinet smashed onto the floor and shattered it apart. With a screeching of metal and splintering of wood, the cabinet tore through the floor and dropped into the warehouse below with a resounding crash. Kendar slumped back, his hand clutching at the wound on his back, thick gouts of blood spurting from it to splatter upon the floor. His yellow eyes narrowed in pure hatred as he issued a low growl. Suddenly the hissing of the other Dancers fell silent as they started to close in.

Come on then, sneered Dominic as he raised Bonespur and bared his fangs. Who wishes to be the first? Who dares face the Render! His cries were suddenly cut off as Jo sprang out from under her hiding place with a shout. In the same instant the entire darkened room was suddenly flooded with a bright glare of light. The Dancers howled in pain, their hands reaching up to cover their pained eyes. Dominic snarled in frustration as he squinted against the flaring light. Then a slim body slammed into him, knocking him slightly off balance. He took a few steps forward to steady himself, and suddenly realized his error as he plunged down the hole made by the cabinet. He landed with a crash, Jo atop him.

C'mon, we have to get out of here! She scrambled to her feet and motioned towards the front door. Above him he heard the angered cries of the Dancers still blinded by the light. Behind him more of the dark creatures came through a shattered hole in the wall. Jo clutched to him tightly and pulled at his arm. Dominic looked one last time at the hole above him and snarled in frustration.

Come then! He grabbed Jo by the back of her jacket and easily lifted her onto his shoulder as he turned and sprang for the door. They burst out into the darkened alley, Dominic quickly leaping upward to a nearby rooftop. He sprinted along quickly, occasionally dropping again to street level before leaping once more to a roof. Behind him he heard the mad howls of the Dancers as they gave chase.


Dominic sank slowly to the ground and sat down with a soft grunt. The chase had been a near thing, but he had still had a few tricks up his sleeves. It would take the Spirals some time yet to track him and Josephine down. He rested his head against the wall of the alley and breathed in the tangy stench of rusting metal. Jo stood nearby, leaning against a rusted barrel and looking around at the gutted and abandoned factories around them. She scuffed her foot on the ground as she looked at a large piece of bent and twisted I-beam, then glanced at him.

You were going to stay, weren't you, said Jo quietly, you weren't planning on leaving. He opened his eyes slightly and looked over at her, certain that she could read the traces of guilt on his face. Oh man, what's with this whole tragic hero thing you have going? Why is it you Garou think it's so great to die in a hopeless battle? I liked you better when you were younger and stupider, literally.

Which part is literal. That you liked me better, or that I was stupid?

Der, stupid-der! It makes a difference y'know. She shoved her hands in her pockets and crouched down to rest on her haunches. She tilted her head forward and looked at him with a frown. The posture making her look eerily bird-like. I think I know what the problem is, she finally said. Slowly he turned to look over at her, her pale face was drawn and worried. But it annoyed him that she thought she knew him so well.

Why is that? Not all of Gaia's secrets are revealed to the Corax, after all.

No. But I got it from a dead Dancer's eye, and that's literally as good as sworn testimony for a Corax. Dominic frowned, suddenly wondering what it was she did know. Well aware that Jo had a way of finding out things you'd have sworn she couldn't even suspect. Jo leaned in slightly, her next words whispered with a hint of fear. Almost as though she wished she was wrong. It's about The Pit isn't it? That thing Syntax found. Dominic looked over at her, she nodded slightly, seeing the truth in his eyes. He sighed and turned away. She looked at him intently, dark eyes alert. What's the story?

It's a ritual. A new ritual

What for? I thought we ripped that place up good last time. She frowned as she thought things over. Even the ooze was messed up, there should be nothing there for them to use.

Don't you remember the chemical in the Allied factory? Jo paused, her eyes twitching about as she recalled the strange green liquid. Its pungent smell. Its acidic vapors. But mostly its powerful mutation effects on the banes who had fallen into it. She looked up at him fearfully, understanding dawning on her. he nodded. They're going to restore the energy of The Pit by re-infusing it with fresh waste. Waste they will pump in from above at the height of the ritual.

But why? The Maw was ruined. Quentin destroyed Tyranthraxus. Why do they need the energy of The Pit? Dominic slowly reached under his coat and pulled out the papers. He flipped them open to show a diagram of The Maw temple as it would appear for the ritual to be performed under the new moon. Laying at the center point was a large black crystal.

Apparently we didn't succeed as we thought we had. They recovered the crystal. They are going to try it all again. They are going to resurrect Tyranthraxus, The Corrupter of Souls.