Knives In The Shadows

by OddBingo

At 20, Bingo Heeler, known as "Knives," has made a name in Melbourne's underground as a skilled bounty hunter. Her sharp instincts and blade expertise make her deadly, but her growing reputation brings danger. As enemies close in and secrets weigh heavy, Bingo must navigate a world of shifting alliances while keeping her double life hidden. How long can she survive the shadows?

12. Itsy Bitsy Spider

January 1st

9:45 PM

So the day is finally here.

Bingo stood in her bathroom, her shadow stretching long against the tiled walls under the bright lightbulb overhead. The air was thick with a mix of soap, faint traces of her perfume, and something sharper—anticipation. Her fingers gripped the edge of the sink, steady but cold, as she leaned forward. The mirror in front of her reflected a stranger.

Carefully, she dragged the eyeliner across her lower lash line, the black pigment darkening her gaze into something unrecognizable. Each stroke was deliberate, her movements calculated, almost ritualistic. She'd done this before—but never like this. Her hand paused briefly, and she studied her reflection.

Her hair, typically cropped and practical, was teased into a deliberate mess, framing her face with a calculated nonchalance. The smudged makeup around her eyes sharpened the angles of her jaw and hollowed out her cheekbones. Black nail polish added to the illusion, its glossy surface catching the faint light whenever her hands moved. The effect was striking—intimidating even.

Her clothes were worlds apart from the tailored efficiency of her usual bounty hunter gear. The black turtleneck hugged her lean frame, the fabric soft yet unyielding. Her leather pants creaked faintly as she shifted her weight, the sheen of the material giving off a dangerous edge. Over it all, she wore a long trench coat, its high collar cutting sharply against her neck and shoulders. The hem swayed slightly when she moved, giving her an almost spectral presence.

Her heavy combat boots added weight to her step, a deliberate contrast to the light-footed agility she relied on in the field. Around her wrists, the leather straps adorned with silver studs were subtle but effective—just enough flair to sell the gothic image without tipping into caricature.

Dangling from her ears were black star-shaped earrings, an odd addition to the ensemble but one she'd chosen with purpose. They weren't her. None of this was her. But that was the point. She wasn't Bingo tonight. She wasn't Knives. She was someone else.

She stepped away from the mirror, studying her reflection with a small, satisfied smirk. The adrenaline thrumming in her veins made her pulse quicken, though she kept her expression calm.

Honestly… I've been itching to kill again. she thought, the admission rolling through her mind like a whispered confession. It's been too long. I can feel it building inside me—like a storm that's finally breaking... I feel like a fucking psycho. Her heart thumped harder at the thought, sending a ripple of excitement she quickly stifled. She couldn't let that part of her take over—not yet. Not until the moment was right.

She adjusted the holsters beneath her coat, the familiar weight of her knives a comforting reminder of what lay ahead. The blades were hidden but accessible, their cold steel resting against her thighs. If Nyx figured her out, if he saw through the disguise, she'd be ready. But for now, she'd let him see what she wanted him to see.

Nyx will be expecting Knives. she mused, the corner of her lips twitching into a wolfish grin. Not whoever this is.

She ran a hand through her messy hair, tilting her head as she took herself in one last time. The person staring back wasn't Bingo Heeler. She wasn't the girl who grew up chasing dreams in Brisbane, nor was she the mercenary whose name whispered through the underground. This was someone new—someone dangerous.

I don't even look like me anymore. she thought. I don't even feel like me. And maybe that's a good thing. It felt like shedding an old skin, slipping into something darker, sharper. She wasn't just hiding tonight—she was transforming.

The clock ticked closer to the hour. Her chest rose and fell steadily as she exhaled, grounding herself. She leaned back over the counter, touching up the eyeliner just slightly, before stepping away entirely.

This is it, Bingo. she told herself, the thought sharp and unyielding. The second Spider falls tonight. One step closer to unraveling the web.

Her fingers brushed the trench coat's hem, tugging it into place as she turned toward the door. Her boots thudded softly against the wooden floor as she moved through her apartment, her shadow cutting across the walls like a phantom.

Tonight, she wasn't just a hunter. She was an idea, a force, a reckoning. And God help anyone who dared to stand in her way.

She grabbed her phone off of the nightstand, texting Havoc as she headed out of her apartment.

Knives: 'Are you ready?'

….

Havoc: 'Yeah. Disguise and all… do you really think they'll fall for the security bit?'

Bingo just smirked, closing and locking her apartment door as she walked down the hallway of her complex.

Knives: 'Those idiots will believe anything. It's New Years, people will be getting drunk and high off their asses.. that, and it's at a strip club, mate.. they'd be more focused on looking at tits anyways.'

Havoc: 'True.. right on. If anything goes south though, that'll make getting to Nyx even more difficult.

Knives: 'That's not an issue. I'll see you at the club.'

And with that, Bingo finally made it to her car, starting it up, buckling in, and driving off…

….

Bingo pulled into a side street a few blocks from the club, parking her car under the cover of shadows. The thumping bass from the building echoed faintly, even at this distance, mingling with the chatter of people lining up outside. She stepped out of the car, her trench coat swaying slightly as she adjusted it. A familiar figure leaned against a nearby lamppost, his posture relaxed but his eyes sharp.

"Havoc." she greeted, keeping her voice low.

Havoc straightened up, giving her a once-over and chuckling. "Damn, Knives. You really went all out! You almost look like the vocalist for some underground emo band."

Bingo smirked, raising an eyebrow. "Says the guy who looks like he just got kicked out of a goth rave."

Havoc spread his arms, showing off his outfit. He was dressed in a black mesh top layered beneath a black jacket that hid his gun holster. His black jeans were ripped at the knees, paired with heavy boots and a thick leather belt adorned with chains. The makeup around his eyes gave him a sinister yet oddly charismatic edge, he had.

"Admit it," he said, grinning. "We look good."

"Good enough to get through the front door without anyone batting an eye maybe? If there isn't much security." Bingo replied, her gaze shifting to the club in the distance. The neon sign above it pulsed with vibrant colors, casting an otherworldly glow over the crowd outside.

The two of them began walking toward the building, taking their time as they observed the scene. A line of partygoers stretched down the block, dressed in everything from cocktail dresses to leather jackets. Security guards loomed at the entrance, their black uniforms and earpieces marking them as more than just bouncers.

Havoc whistled under his breath, his eyes narrowing. "Nyx really upped his security game. That's at least six guys out front, not counting whoever's inside."

"Paranoid bastard." Bingo muttered, scanning the perimeter. She spotted two more guards patrolling the side alley, their hands resting on holstered weapons. "Makes sense, though. He knows we're coming for him. Or at least, he knows someone is.."

Havoc crossed his arms. "Think they're expecting us to try the front?"

"Doesn't matter. We're not going in that way." Bingo's tone was firm, her eyes darting toward the side of the building. She tilted her head, signaling Havoc to follow as she led him down a quieter street. "There's a back entrance. It's probably less guarded, but we'll have to be careful."

The pair moved with practiced ease, sticking to the shadows as they approached the rear of the club. The alley was dimly lit, the faint smell of spilled alcohol and cigarette smoke lingering in the air. Bingo motioned for Havoc to stop as they reached the corner. Peering around it, she spotted a lone guard stationed by the back door, his posture relaxed as he scrolled through his phone.

Havoc leaned in, his voice barely above a whisper. "Looks like we've got a slacker. You wanna handle him?"

Bingo smirked, already pulling a knife from the concealed holster beneath her coat. "Don't I always?"

Without waiting for a reply, she moved swiftly, her boots making barely a sound against the pavement. The guard didn't notice her until it was too late—her arm snaked around his neck, pulling him into a chokehold, while her other hand pressed the cold steel of her knife against his throat.

"Shh…" she whispered, her voice cold and calm. "Just go to sleep…"

The man struggled briefly, but Bingo's grip was unrelenting. Within seconds, his body went limp. She eased him to the ground, checking to make sure he was unconscious before pulling his keys from his belt.

Havoc stepped forward, giving her an approving nod. "Efficient as always."

Bingo didn't reply, instead turning her attention to the door. She tested the keys until one clicked, then slowly pushed it open. The music inside was louder now, the bass reverberating through her chest. She glanced over her shoulder at Havoc.

"Stay sharp, mate." she said, her voice low but firm. "We're in spider territory now."

Havoc smirked. "Always am."

With that, the two of them slipped inside. The music hit them like a wave, its bass pounding through the walls and floors, vibrating in their chests as they moved. The air was thick with smoke, alcohol, and sweat, swirling together into an intoxicating cocktail that made the place feel like a den of chaos. Neon lights bathed the room in shifting shades of red, blue, and purple, highlighting the stages where topless dancers swayed under the hungry gazes of the drunken patrons crowding around them. Shouts, laughter, and the clinking of glasses filled the space, blending into the deafening beat of the music.

Bingo and Havoc paused near the edge of the main floor, their eyes scanning the scene. Havoc's expression remained calm, though his sharp gaze darted to every exit and every armed guard lingering near the walls. Bingo, meanwhile, crossed her arms, her lips pulling into a faint smirk as she observed the madhouse.

"This place is disgusting." she muttered under her breath, though there was a dark amusement in her tone.

"It's a cesspool, yeah" Havoc agreed. "Perfect for people like Nyx to do business."

Bingo's eyes shifted upward, toward the second story. It was partially visible from their position, lined with tinted glass and guarded entrances. Through the windows, shadowy figures could be seen milling about—VIPs, no doubt, sipping expensive drinks and making deals that fueled the city's underworld.

"So," Bingo started, her voice low as she leaned closer to Havoc, "if I recall correctly… Nyx was meeting with some very important people tonight. Drug dealers, traffickers… scumbags like that. You reckon they'd be upstairs in the VIP section?"

"No doubt about it." Havoc tilted his head, his sharp eyes locking onto the guards stationed at the entrances to the second floor. They were well-armed, their stances rigid, eyes scanning the crowd below. "Looks like they've locked it down tight, though. Getting past them isn't gonna be easy."

Bingo tapped a finger against her chin, her gaze fixed on the second story. "Hmm. I wonder… if one of those guards has access to the meeting itself. Could make things easier if we 'borrowed' that access."

Havoc smirked faintly. "So what's the plan? Walk up there and ask nicely?"

Bingo shot him a sidelong glance, the corner of her mouth tugging upward. "Something like that." She looked back toward the stairs leading up to the VIP section, her mind racing. "I say we get up there and scout the situation. See what's what—how to get into the meeting, when it's gonna start. If we're lucky, we won't need to blow our cover just yet."

"Risky," Havoc said, folding his arms. "But I trust you."

"You better." Bingo quipped, turning on her heel and nodding for him to follow. "Let's move."

The pair slipped into the crowd, weaving between drunken partygoers and leering patrons. Bingo kept her movements smooth and deliberate, keeping her head low as she sized up the guards blocking the stairs. One of them was larger than the others, his sheer bulk and confident stance marking him as the leader. He exchanged a few curt words with another guard before turning back toward the staircase, his expression grim and professional.

"We'll need to distract them," Bingo murmured to Havoc as they passed by. "One guard at least. Make them leave their post."

Havoc nodded subtly, his lips barely moving as he replied. "I saw a side hallway near the bar. Might be a good spot to lure one out..."

Bingo's eyes flicked to the bar, then back to the guards. "Good. If I can get one alone, I can… persuade him to give us access."

Havoc smirked, but his tone was serious. "Don't get carried away, Knives. We don't want to tip them off too soon."

"Relax, I'll keep it clean." Bingo's smirk mirrored his as she veered toward the bar. "You hang back, keep an eye on the floor. I'll handle this."

Bingo approached the bar, her posture relaxed but her mind sharp. Her eyes scanned the crowd for her next target. She noticed a lean, wiry brown dog with a jittery demeanor breaking away from the group of guards near the stairs. His shoulders were tense, his movements restless—nervous energy practically radiating off him. A smirk tugged at her lips.

Perfect.

As he leaned against the counter to place his order, Bingo slipped beside him, her presence quiet yet deliberate. She didn't look at him right away, instead letting the moment breathe before speaking in a smooth, conversational tone. "Busy night, huh?"

The guard glanced at her out of the corner of his eye, his wariness evident. But there was curiosity there too. "Yeah. You could say that… are you, uh… a guy or a chick?"

Bingo chuckled lightly, keeping her tone ambiguous, almost teasing. "Let's keep that a mystery, yeah? Adds to the fun." She leaned in ever so slightly, lowering her voice just enough to make it personal. "You don't seem like you're having fun, though. Rough shift?"

The guard hesitated, his eyes darting briefly to his drink before he shrugged. "..Something like that."

Bingo tilted her head, her smile shifting into something more conspiratorial, a mix of charm and subtle danger. "Maybe I can help. There's a quiet hallway over there—no prying eyes, no interruptions... let's go have a chat, yeah?"

His eyes flicked toward the hallway she gestured to, then back to her. She could see the conflict play out in his expression—the suspicion warring with the temptation. After a moment, the latter won out, and he nodded cautiously. "Alright. Lead the way."

Fucking idiot.

Bingo turned, her smirk growing as she walked ahead, her movements calm and purposeful, the rhythmic pounding of the music fading as they entered the dimly lit hallway. Her steps slowed, and Havoc's earlier words echoed in her head: Stay clean.

But she wasn't here to stay clean. She was here to get results.

The second they were out of sight, Bingo struck. Her knife was in her hand before he could react, the cold blade pressed firmly against his throat. The guard froze instantly, his breath catching in his chest as fear overtook him.

"Don't scream," Bingo whispered, her tone chillingly soft, her gaze locking onto his with a cold, unyielding intensity. Her knife didn't waver, and neither did she.

"W-what the hell—" he stammered, but she pressed the blade just enough to shut him up.

"Quiet." she hissed, her voice dropping to a razor-sharp whisper. She leaned closer, her breath ghosting his ear. "Now listen carefully. Nyx. What time does he get here, and when does his little meeting start? Tell me everything, or you won't leave this hallway."

The guard's throat bobbed against the edge of her blade as he swallowed hard. "H-he's already here," he stammered, his words tumbling out in a rush. "The meeting starts in ten minutes! that's all I know..!"

"Fine. I'm gonna need your access card, though." Bingo spoke and then studied him for a moment, her expression unreadable, before she noticed his hand trembling as it reached toward his pocket. Her eyes narrowed dangerously. "Easy…" she warned, the edge of her blade grazing his skin.

"I'm just—grabbing my access card!" he blurted, his voice cracking as he fumbled for it. The plastic card shook in his hand as he extended it toward her. "Here! Just—just take it, please!"

Bingo plucked the card from his fingers with her free hand, her smirk returning as she leaned in close, her voice a deadly purr. "Smart move. Now here's what's going to happen... You're going to turn your ass around and walk out of here. You're going to go home, and you're not going to tell a soul about this." Her smirk sharpened into something predatory. "Because if you do? I'll find out. And when I do, I'll carve you into tiny, tiny unrecognizable, and untraceable little pieces."

The guard's face turned ashen, his breathing shallow as she slowly drew the knife away from his throat.

"Now," Bingo said, her tone calm but final, "..Walk away."

The guard stumbled backward, his eyes wide with terror as he clutched at his neck as if he still felt the blade there. He cast one last panicked glance at her before turning and bolting down the hallway and out of the exit door.

Bingo watched him go, casually flipping the access card between her fingers as if it were a playing card. She let out a satisfied sigh, tucking it into her pocket before turning and heading back to the main floor. Her movements were as smooth and unhurried as if nothing had happened.

When she rejoined Havoc, she held up the card with a triumphant grin. "Looks like we've got a meeting to crash."

Havoc raised an eyebrow, smirking as he took in her calm demeanor. "Efficient as always, huh?"

"You know me," Bingo replied, her voice light but her eyes gleaming with determination. "Now, let's get upstairs and crash the party."

Bingo and Havoc began their ascent to the second story of the club, the bass-heavy music reverberating through the walls as they moved. At the base of the stairs, a burly security guard scrutinized them briefly before Bingo casually flashed the stolen access card. The guard gave a curt nod and stepped aside, granting them entry without a second thought.

As they stepped onto the second level, the atmosphere shifted. It was more exclusive, more refined—but no less chaotic. The dim lighting was punctuated by the neon glow of the bar, where patrons sipped on expensive cocktails, their laughter and conversation blending into the pulsing music. Across the room, the VIP section stood out like a fortress: a closed-off area guarded by two imposing men in tailored black suits. The crowd partied obliviously nearby, dancing and drinking as though the world outside didn't exist.

Bingo's eyes scanned the room, her sharp gaze lingering on the VIP section. The guards were stiff and alert, their postures practically screaming that whatever was behind that velvet rope was important. She nudged Havoc, tilting her head subtly in their direction.

"Yeah…" Havoc muttered, crossing his arms as he leaned against the bar beside her. "It's gonna be one hell of a night." His voice carried a mix of anticipation and weariness. He exhaled sharply, his dark eyes narrowing as he surveyed the scene. "We know Nyx is here.. I'd bet good money he's back there, kicking back and having a great time before his little meeting."

Bingo hummed thoughtfully, her fingers drumming lightly against the bar's edge. "We can't just bust in there guns blazing. Not yet, anyway." Her voice was low, calculated. "We've got to make it look like we're part of security for this meeting. That way, we can get in, scope the place out, and see the entire thing unfold."

Havoc turned to her, a crooked smirk tugging at his lips. "You've got a plan, don't you?"

Bingo shrugged, though the gleam in her eye betrayed her confidence. "I think so.. But first, we need to figure out who's calling the shots for the guards. Every crew like this has a chain of command. We find the top dog out here, convince him we're hired muscle, and we're in."

Havoc nodded, his expression turning serious. "Alright. I'll keep an eye on the bar area and see if I can spot anyone giving orders or acting like they own the place. You focus on the guards by the VIP section—watch how they move, who they talk to."

Bingo smirked, tipping an imaginary hat at him. "Got it. Let's play nice for now."

The two split up, each blending into their surroundings with practiced ease. Bingo sauntered toward the far side of the room, her sharp eyes fixed on the VIP section. She noted every detail: the way the guards subtly checked their comms, the occasional glance toward the crowd, the way they shifted their weight like men who were used to standing for hours but weren't entirely comfortable.

One guard caught her gaze, his expression tightening as if he could sense her calculating stare. Bingo smiled faintly, her demeanor casual as she turned her attention to a passing server with a tray of drinks. She didn't look back, but she could feel the guard's eyes on her.

Good. Let him wonder.

Meanwhile, Havoc leaned casually against the bar, nursing a glass of whiskey he didn't intend to finish. His sharp eyes darted across the room, picking up subtle cues—like how a man in a navy blazer seemed to command the bartender's attention without saying a word, the way people moved out of his way as he walked. Bingo's right. Chain of command.

Havoc's voice crackled in her earpiece, low and calm. "Got a potential lead. A guy in navy, six o'clock from me. Looks like he's in charge of something.. Might be worth cozying up to?"

Bingo casually raised a hand to brush a stray hair from her face, subtly activating her mic. "Copy that. Keep an eye on him. I'll see if I can catch his attention without raising suspicion."

As Bingo began to angle her way back toward Havoc, her mind raced through the possibilities. If Nyx was already here, the meeting was bound to be a critical turning point in the Black Widows' operations or at least fit Nyx. She had to stay sharp, play her cards right, and keep her blade ready.

Because once she and Havoc got inside that VIP section, all bets were off.

Bingo weaved through the thrumming crowd with the grace of someone who belonged, her movements deliberate yet casual. She kept her gaze sharp, her focus locked on the man in navy Havoc had pointed out. He was a tall and broad-shouldered Dalmatian, carrying himself with the kind of confidence that came from authority. People moved around him with deference, whether consciously or not, and he stood at the edge of the bar like he owned the place.

"Anything else on him?" Bingo murmured into her mic, keeping her tone light as though she were humming along to the music.

"Not much yet." Havoc replied. "But he's been chatting with a few guards near the VIP section. Might be the handler for their security team."

"Perfect." Bingo said under her breath. She adjusted her posture as she neared the man, softening her expression into something disarming. Her lips curved into a faint smile, her demeanor confident but approachable.

When she was close enough, she sidled up to the bar beside him, pretending to scan the menu. She waited until the bartender approached, then gestured to the man in navy. "Whatever he's having," she said, her voice smooth. "It must be good if you're drinking it."

The man glanced at her, his sharp blue eyes flickering with mild curiosity. "That so?" he said, his tone skeptical but not dismissive.

Bingo tilted her head, letting the smile linger. "Absolutely. I figure you look like the kind of guy who knows his way around a drink—and probably a lot more." She tapped her fingers lightly on the bar. "Busy night, isn't it?"

The man studied her for a moment, his expression unreadable. "You're not from around here, are you?" he asked, his tone carrying the faintest hint of suspicion.

"Depends on what you mean by 'around here,'" Bingo replied easily. "If you're asking whether I've been to this club before, nah. But I've been in enough places like this to know how things work.. look, we got sent here for tonight to ensure that the meeting with Nyx goes smoothly. We're your extra muscle.. my name's Vain."

The Dalmatian raised an eyebrow, his blue eyes narrowing as he studied her. "Vain, huh?" he repeated, as if testing the name on his tongue. His skeptical expression softened just a touch, though the edge in his voice remained. "Funny. I wasn't told about any extra muscle."

Bingo shrugged, her smile unfaltering. "We're last-minute additions. Someone higher up didn't want to take any chances with tonight's meeting. You know how it is—Nyx's reputation speaks for itself. Better overprepared than under." She motioned subtly to the bustling club around them. "And let's be real—this place is a security nightmare. Too many moving pieces, too many opportunities for someone to get stupid."

The man's lips twitched in what might have been a smirk. "You think you've got the chops to handle a job like this?"

Bingo leaned against the bar, her posture relaxed but her voice sharp with confidence. "Let's just say I've been around long enough to handle bigger jobs than babysitting a VIP section. My partner and I aren't here to mess around—we're here to make sure your little meeting stays quiet and clean." Her gaze flicked toward the VIP section, then back to him. "But hey, if you don't need us, we can head out. You can take the risk. Your call."

The Dalmatian tilted his head, his curiosity clearly piqued now. There was something about her—a mix of casual ease and razor-sharp intent—that made him hesitate. He exhaled slowly, then gestured toward the bartender, who handed him another drink. "Alright, Vain," he said finally, his tone neutral but with an undercurrent of respect. "You've got my attention. Who's your partner?"

Bingo glanced over her shoulder toward where Havoc stood, his dark fur blending seamlessly into the dim lighting of the second story. "That's him," she said, tilting her head slightly in Havoc's direction. "Big guy, quiet type. You won't even notice he's there—until it matters."

The Dalmatian followed her gaze, his eyes narrowing slightly as he assessed Havoc. After a long pause, he returned his attention to Bingo. "Fine. You're in. But screw this up, and I'll make sure you both regret it. Got it?"

Bingo's smile widened, sharp and self-assured. "Crystal clear."

The man reached into his jacket and pulled out a sleek black keycard, sliding it across the bar toward her. "This will get you into the VIP section. Stick to the perimeter, watch the exits, and don't make any sudden moves. Nyx doesn't take kindly to surprises."

Bingo pocketed the keycard with a nod. "Understood. You won't even know we're there."

As she turned to leave, her mic crackled softly in her ear. "Smooth," Havoc murmured, his tone carrying a hint of amusement. "Didn't know you were going with 'Vain.'"

"It fits, doesn't it?" Bingo replied under her breath, her lips barely moving as she approached him. She handed him a subtle nod before speaking again. "We're in. Let's keep this tight. No unnecessary noise."

Havoc gave her a brief, approving glance as they began moving toward the roped-off VIP section. The guards stationed outside gave them a once-over, but as soon as Bingo flashed the keycard, they stepped aside without a word.

As they entered, the atmosphere shifted immediately. The music was muffled, the air heavier with the scent of expensive cigars and imported whiskey. The lighting was dim but luxurious, casting long shadows across the room. Bingo's eyes swept the space quickly, taking in the opulent décor, the cluster of sharply dressed individuals, and the imposing figure seated at the head of a private table.

Nyx.

He was unmistakable—a sleek, Jack Russell in a tailored black/red suit, a sure sign that he was a spider.. He leaned back in his chair, a glass of amber liquid swirling lazily in his hand, his expression calm but unreadable at the moment.

Bingo and Havoc exchanged a brief look, their unspoken understanding clear. They had their entry. Now, it was time to play their parts—and wait for the perfect moment to strike.

There he is. Bingo thought, looking at him as she stood near the door with Havoc. That's him.

"Who the fuck are you two." Nyx asked the two.

"..We're a part of your security." Bingo replied.

He didn't buy it.

Nyx's piercing eyes flicked between Bingo and Havoc, his calm demeanor betrayed only by the slight tightening of his jaw. His grip on the glass in his hand didn't waver, but his tone carried an edge sharp enough to cut. "I don't recall asking for extra security," he said, each word deliberate. "So I'll ask again—who the fuck are you, and why are you in my room?"

Bingo didn't flinch under his scrutiny. She took a small step forward, just enough to make her presence known without encroaching too far. Her posture remained poised, her tone smooth but firm. "Vain and Crow," she said, introducing them both with a slight nod. "We're last-minute additions—your guy at the bar cleared us. Higher-ups wanted extra eyes on the floor tonight, especially with so many unknowns floating around. You know how it is—better to have us and not need us than need us and not have us."

Nyx's gaze lingered on her for a moment, weighing her words. Then it shifted to Havoc, who stood silent and stoic by her side, his hulking frame radiating a quiet, intimidating energy. Havoc didn't say a word, but his mere presence seemed to punctuate Bingo's explanation.

Nyx leaned forward slightly, setting his glass on the table with an audible clink. His lips curled into a faint smirk, though the amusement didn't reach his eyes. "Higher-ups, huh? Funny, because I'm the higher-up around here. And I don't like surprises." He gestured vaguely toward the other occupants of the room, a mix of sharply dressed individuals who were now watching the exchange with interest. "You're in my world now, Vain. If you're lying to me, you won't leave this room."

Bingo's heart thudded in her chest, but her expression didn't waver. Instead, she matched his intensity with a calm confidence of her own. "With all due respect, Mr. Nyx, we're here to keep you alive. You can question our presence all you want, but at the end of the day, we're on the same side. My partner and I? We're not here to play games. We're here to make sure this meeting goes off without a hitch."

Nyx leaned back again, his smirk widening slightly. He reached for his glass and took a slow sip, his gaze never leaving hers. The tension in the room thickened, the air almost stifling as everyone waited for his response.

Finally, he set the glass down and waved a dismissive hand. "Fine," he said, his tone light but laced with warning. "You're in. But don't forget—you're disposable. Step out of line, and I'll have your heads mounted on my wall." His eyes flicked to Havoc. "Big guy included."

Bingo inclined her head, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "Crystal clear."

Nyx's attention shifted away from them as he returned to his conversation with the others at the table. The room seemed to exhale, the tension easing slightly, though Bingo remained on high alert. She and Havoc moved to the edges of the room, positioning themselves near the exits as instructed.

As they settled in, Havoc's voice came through her earpiece, low and dry. "You're good at this. Almost too good."

Bingo allowed herself a small, humorless smirk, her eyes scanning the room. "Comes with the territory. Just stay sharp—he's not buying it completely. We've got to be ready for anything."

Havoc's chuckle was almost imperceptible. "Always am."

From her position, Bingo could see Nyx gesturing animatedly as he spoke, his voice low but commanding. This was her first real glimpse of the infamous "Spider" in action, and she couldn't help but study him. The way he carried himself—every move calculated, every glance measured—reminded her of a predator, weaving an invisible web that ensnared everyone in the room.

This is it, she thought, her fingers brushing against the hidden blade tucked beneath her jacket. Just have to wait for an opening..

Nyx's voice cut through the low hum of conversation as the heavy door to the room swung open again. This time, three figures stepped inside, their tailored suits sharp under the dim lighting. The first was a sleek border collie with a confident stride, his eyes sharp and calculating. Behind him was a grizzled bloodhound, his expression unreadable but his presence commanding, and bringing up the rear was a broad-shouldered malamute, his towering frame exuding quiet strength.

"Ah, there they are!" Nyx called out, a grin spreading across his face as he leaned back in his chair. He gestured for the newcomers to join him at the table. "Gentlemen, glad you could finally make it! Everyone, let me introduce Haynes, Colt, and Dawn. These three fine fellows flew in all the way from New Zealand."

The border collie, Haynes, nodded in acknowledgment as he strode to the table. A sleek leather briefcase hung at his side, its polished exterior glinting under the chandelier's soft light. "Pleasure to be here," he said, his tone smooth and laced with an accent that hinted at his Kiwi roots. He placed the briefcase carefully on the table before glancing around. "Anyone got a cigar?"

Nyx chuckled and reached into a drawer beneath the table, pulling out a box of fine cigars. He slid it across to Haynes, who plucked one out with a satisfied smirk. "Only the best for you, mate," Nyx said, watching as Haynes expertly clipped the end of the cigar and lit it.

Haynes exhaled a plume of smoke, leaning back in his chair with an air of casual authority. "Cheers, mate. Now, shall we get to business?" His sharp gaze flicked across the room, momentarily resting on Bingo and Havoc at the edges before returning to Nyx. "What's the priority tonight? The guns? The drugs? Or…" He smirked, his teeth flashing as his voice dropped to a conspiratorial tone. "..The bitches?"

The table erupted in laughter, the sound echoing against the opulent walls. Even Nyx let out a chuckle, shaking his head in amusement. "Straight to the point, huh, Haynes? I like that. But let's take it one step at a time. First, I want to make sure we're all on the same page about the shipment routes. No point talking about inventory if we can't move it cleanly."

Yeah, fair point," Haynes replied, leaning back in his chair. "Which is exactly why I should—"

"Who's the bloke and the broad over there?" Dawn cut in, his voice gruff as he gestured toward Bingo and Havoc.

Shit.

Nyx barely spared a glance in their direction, waving a dismissive hand. "Just security. They're not important."

Dawn wasn't convinced. His sharp gaze lingered on Bingo, and a sly smirk tugged at the corners of his mouth. "The broad looks like one tough cookie. You sure we should be talking about the whole women side of the operation with her standing right there?"

Colt sighed, clearly annoyed as Dawn got to his feet. "Now, Dawn, leave her alone, yeah? She's not even part of the meeting."

"Yeah, yeah, don't get your knickers in a twist," Dawn muttered, brushing him off as he made his way toward Bingo. He moved with the confidence of a man who thought he owned every room he walked into.

Bingo's muscles tensed, but she stayed calm, her eyes fixed on the meeting. Her mind raced, calculating every possible outcome of this interruption.

Dawn stopped in front of her, leaning one hand against the wall beside her head. The smell of cigars and whiskey clung to him as he looked her up and down with a cocky grin. "Hello there, Miss Security," he drawled, his voice low and mockingly smooth. "What's your name?"

Out of everyone in this room, he had to come to me! Fuck, I cannot stand men sometimes...

Without shifting her focus from the table, Bingo replied coolly, "Vain."

Dawn tilted his head, as if testing the name. "Vain, huh? That's cute." He leaned in slightly, his smirk widening as he tried to catch her gaze. "So, what's a girl like you doing in a place like this? You really just here to babysit, or is there more to your story?"

Bingo's tone didn't waver as she kept her eyes locked on the group at the table. "I'm here to do my job. And my job doesn't involve making small talk."

Dawn chuckled, amused by her sharp reply. "Feisty. I like that." He glanced over his shoulder toward the others, who were still deep in their conversation, before lowering his voice. "Tell me, Vain… you sure you're not wasting your talents on this gig? A girl like you could be doing a lot more."

Bingo finally turned her head, her sharp gaze meeting his. Her expression was cold, her words sharper than any blade she carried. "What I could be doing isn't any of your business. Now, unless you have a real reason to be here, get out of my face and let me do. my. job."

Dawn blinked, caught off guard by her icy tone. For a moment, it seemed like he might push further, but something in her eyes made him hesitate. He straightened up, raising his hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright. No need to bite my head off."

As he sauntered back to the table, Havoc's voice crackled quietly in Bingo's ear. "Handled that well. You've got a fan now."

"Shut it." Bingo muttered under her breath, her focus already back on the meeting. Dawn might have backed off for now, but she knew his type—he'd be watching, waiting for another opportunity to get under her skin.

About thirty minutes had passed. The air in the VIP section had grown thick with smoke and the stench of corruption. Bingo and Havoc stood silent, their positions unwavering as they absorbed every word of the conversation. The men at the table spoke freely about their plans—the drugs they were smuggling, the guns they were importing, and the girls they were exploiting to push their agendas. It was disgusting, every word like bile in Bingo's throat. And yet, at the center of it all, Nyx sat comfortably, his arrogant smirk never wavering, playing the role of a kingpin with ease.

"—And that's why it's important to move certain shipments that way, mate," Haynes concluded, his thick accent cutting through the ambient noise. "Last thing you need is the coppers catching on and fucking you over."

The men chuckled, exchanging knowing looks, but Colt leaned forward, his tone shifting slightly. "By the way, Nyx… What happened to your mate, Archer?"

At the mention of the name, Nyx's expression darkened. His jovial demeanor soured as he exhaled heavily, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. "Oh… Archer got fucking murdered by some bitch. Her name's Knives."

The name hit Bingo like a gunshot. Her ears perked, but her face remained carefully composed. She didn't move, though the storm brewing inside her made her blood feel like molten fire.

"Damn," Dawn muttered, leaning back in his chair. "What'd he do to piss her off so bad?"

"Yeah," Haynes added, curiosity gleaming in his eyes. "Must've been something big if she went out of her way to take him out."

Nyx scoffed, his lip curling in disdain. "That idiot shot her sister instead of her. She was supposed to die that day, but he fucked it up. Honestly? He should've killed both of those bitches. Would've saved us all a lot of trouble."

The men nodded grimly, muttering their agreement, but Nyx wasn't done. His voice dropped, dripping with venom. "She didn't just kill him, though. Oh, no. She tortured him. Recorded the whole fucking thing and sent it to all my mates as a little 'warning.' The nerve of her. I swear, when I get my hands on her, I'll kill her so dead she won't even have a name to spit on..."

"Fucking hell…" Haynes muttered under his breath, shaking his head.

Bingo stood stock still, her hands clenched into tight fists at her sides. The memories surged unbidden, sharp and searing—Bluey's scream, the blood pooling on the ground, the panic in her sister's eyes. She remembered holding Bluey in her arms, the overwhelming fury that had consumed her, and the fire that had fueled her hunt for Archer. Now, here Nyx was, casually discussing how Archer should've "finished the job."

How dare he?

The rage bubbled under her skin, threatening to explode. Her breathing quickened, her nails digging into her palms as she forced herself to remain still. The room faded slightly, her vision tunneling on Nyx.

"Knives. Ease up." Havoc's voice crackled softly through her comms, calm but firm.

His words snapped her back, grounding her. Slowly, she unclenched her fists, though the anger still simmered, barely contained.

"I'm.. fine," she muttered under her breath, her lips barely moving. But even as she said it, she knew it wasn't true.

"Yeah… and honestly? If it were up to me? I'd go back to Brisbane right now and kill her sister myself to make a point, yeah?" Nyx chuckled darkly, his words dripping with malice.

Haynes, Colt, and Dawn froze, staring at him in stunned silence.

"Bloody hell," Haynes muttered, shaking his head. "That's unhinged, mate."

But for Bingo, those words weren't just unhinged—they were unforgivable.

Her vision narrowed, her pulse roaring in her ears. Without thinking, her hand slipped into her coat and closed around the familiar handle of a knife. Her body moved before her mind caught up, and in a flash, the blade was flying through the air.

SCHLING.

"AGHHH!"

Nyx howled in pain, clutching his arm as Bingo's knife embedded itself deep into his flesh. Blood seeped through his fingers, staining his crisp shirt. Haynes, Colt, Dawn, and the others at the table shot to their feet, eyes wide with disbelief.

"HOLY FUCKIN' HELL!" Haynes yelled, stumbling back as chaos erupted.

The sound of Nyx's scream reached the hallway, and within seconds, the door burst open. Three guards stormed in, their faces contorted with confusion and fury.

"What the hell is—" The lead guard's sentence was cut short as another knife whistled through the air and buried itself in his chest with a sickening thunk. He looked down in stunned silence, blood bubbling at his lips before he collapsed to the ground.

"SHIT!" The second guard fumbled for his gun, but before he could aim—

BANG. BANG.

Two gunshots echoed through the room, and the remaining guards dropped, each with a clean bullet hole in their heads. Smoke curled lazily from Havoc's revolver as he stepped forward, his expression unreadable. "So much for playing it safe..."

Nyx groaned, his hand trembling as he yanked the knife out of his arm, blood dripping onto the floor. He turned, his panicked eyes locking on Bingo as she stepped out of the shadows. The calm, detached demeanor of "Vain" was gone, replaced by the cold, predatory gaze of Knives.

"You… it's you.." Nyx hissed, his voice laced with both pain and rage. He staggered back, clutching his injured arm. "Bloody fuckin' hell… How did you know to find me here!?"

Bingo didn't flinch, her voice cutting through the air like one of her blades. "I'm not wasting my breath on you." Her eyes burned with lethal intent. "You die tonight, Spider."

Nyx's face twisted in fear as the realization sank in. He stumbled back toward the door behind him, blood trailing from his arm.

"Fuck this.." he muttered, turning and bolting through the doorway.

Bingo growled, her muscles tensing like a coiled spring before she launched herself after him. Her prey was running, and she wouldn't let him escape.

Havoc sighed, shaking his head as he holstered his revolver. "Damn it, Knives.." he muttered, breaking into a jog to follow her.

The chase was on.

Haynes, Colt, and Dawn sat there with the others.. Haynes just took a big swig of his glass and stood up.

"Boys. Let's get the FUCK outta here!"

"Good deal." Colt added

"Yeahhh that's enough for one night." Dawn added on as well.

…

The sound of Nyx's boots pounding against the floor echoed through the darkened corridors of the club. Blood dripped steadily from his arm as he shoved open a door that led into the main area. Music thudded heavily in the background, the bass shaking the walls as patrons danced and drank, oblivious to the carnage behind closed doors—at least, for now.

"OUT OF THE WAY!" Nyx bellowed, barreling into the crowd. He shoved a drunken patron to the floor and nearly trampled another as he forced his way toward the exit. "Guards! GUARDS! KILL THEM! SHOOT TO KILL!"

Behind him, Bingo—Knives—burst into the room, her eyes locked onto her prey. Havoc was close behind, his revolver in hand, his expression calm but alert. The room erupted into chaos as club-goers screamed and scattered, ducking behind tables and chairs as Nyx's guards, stationed throughout the club, drew their weapons.

"There they are! TAKE THEM OUT!" one of the guards yelled, raising his pistol toward Knives.

BANG!

The shot never landed. Havoc fired first, his revolver's report deafening in the enclosed space. The guard's head snapped back, and he crumpled to the floor.

Another guard charged toward Knives, his knife glinting under the flashing strobe lights. With a fluid motion, Knives pulled a blade from her belt and threw it.

THUNK.

The man froze mid-stride, the blade lodged deep in his throat. He gurgled and fell, clutching at the knife as blood pooled beneath him.

"Keep firing!" a third guard screamed, pulling out an assault rifle. He sprayed bullets wildly, forcing Knives and Havoc to duck behind cover.

Havoc peeked out from behind a toppled table, his revolver steady in his hand. He exhaled slowly and squeezed the trigger.

BANG. BANG.

Two guards went down instantly, precise shots between their eyes. Havoc smirked to himself. "Amateurs." he muttered.

Meanwhile, Knives moved like a shadow through the chaos, weaving between tables and the panicked crowd. A guard lunged at her with a baton, but she sidestepped effortlessly, grabbing his wrist and twisting it until the weapon clattered to the floor. Before he could react, she drew a blade across his throat in a clean, efficient motion, spraying blood.

Another guard approached from behind, but Knives seemed to sense him. She spun around, slamming her elbow into his nose before plunging a knife into his chest. She yanked it free with a sickening squelch and kicked him onto the ground, her eyes scanning the room for her next target.

"Fall back! FALL BACK!" one of the remaining guards yelled, clearly panicked.

"Not happening." Havoc muttered, stepping out from cover. Three quick shots rang out, and three more guards dropped like stones, their blood staining the club's once-pristine floors.

Nyx was nearing the exit now, his breaths coming in ragged gasps as he shoved through the last of the fleeing patrons. He glanced over his shoulder and froze in horror.

Knives was still coming, her face splattered with drops of blood but her expression was eerily calm. Her knife gleamed in her hand, ready for more. Havoc trailed just behind her, his revolver still smoking.

"Fuck! You useless bastards!" Nyx shouted at his remaining guards. "STOP HER!"

One of the guards charged at Knives with a roar, swinging a baton. She ducked under the wild swing and drove her blade into his gut, twisting it for good measure and stabbing him again and again, before shoving him aside harshly.

Another guard aimed a shotgun at Havoc, but the moment he pulled the trigger, Havoc sidestepped, the shot splintering the wall behind him. Calm as ever, Havoc raised his revolver and fired a single, precise shot. The guard dropped without another word.

Knives and Havoc stood amidst the wreckage of bodies, their breathing steady, their eyes locked on the fleeing Nyx. The club was silent now, save for the distant echo of Nyx's footsteps and the faint bass of the music still thumping through the walls.

Knives took a step forward, wiping her blade clean on a fallen guard's shirt. She glanced at Havoc, her voice cold and resolute.

"He's not getting away." she snarled as she ran towards Nyx, who had made it out of the exit. Havoc followed close behind.

Nyx crashed through the exit door, the metal slamming against the wall as he stumbled into the dimly lit alley. His breaths came in short, frantic gasps, each exhale sharp and desperate. Blood dripped steadily from his wounded arm, leaving a crimson trail as he sprinted down the narrow path.

"Fucking hell… fucking hell…" he muttered between gasps, his boots splashing through murky puddles. Glancing over his shoulder, his heart nearly stopped.

Knives and Havoc had just stepped out of the doorway, their silhouettes illuminated by the flickering neon sign above the exit. Knives' icy gaze bore into him like a predator locking onto prey, while Havoc casually adjusted his revolver, his steps calm yet purposeful.

"Shit!" Nyx hissed, stumbling as he turned a corner into the open street. The muffled bass of the club faded behind him, replaced by the blaring horns and screeching brakes of startled drivers. A car slammed on its brakes inches from him, the driver shouting obscenities as Nyx darted past.

Behind him, Knives emerged from the alley like a phantom, her knives glinting under the dim streetlights. Havoc followed a second later, his revolver raised as he scanned for any threats.

"MOVE!" Knives barked, weaving through the honking cars with ease. Her eyes never left Nyx, her focus razor-sharp.

Havoc took a different approach, walking straight into the street with a cold, unbothered confidence. A car screeched to a halt in front of him, the driver rolling down their window to yell. Without so much as a glance, Havoc leveled his revolver at the man's face, silencing him instantly.

"Keep.. driving." Havoc said coolly, stepping aside as the terrified driver sped off.

Nyx glanced back again, his panic mounting. He could see Knives gaining on him, her movements swift and relentless. The crowd on the sidewalk began to scatter, some screaming, others pulling out their phones to film the chaos.

"Yeah… keep following me…" Nyx wheezed, his breath ragged as his legs pumped furiously. Despite the pain radiating from his injured arm and the sharp ache in his lungs, adrenaline kept him moving. The Jack Russell was fast—faster than most—but desperation gave him an edge tonight. He darted through the labyrinth of alleys and side streets, every step a gamble, every turn calculated to throw them off.

The sounds of pursuit echoed behind him—Knives' quick, precise steps and Havoc's heavier, measured strides.

They weren't just chasing him.

They were hunting him.

"Come on, come on…" Nyx muttered to himself, spotting his destination in the distance. The old warehouse loomed ahead, its silhouette sharp against the faint glow of city lights. He pushed harder, his boots slamming against the pavement as he neared the large metal door.

Without hesitation, he yanked the door open and slipped inside, vanishing into the shadows. The door creaked loudly, groaning on its hinges, and he left it slightly ajar before disappearing deeper into the darkness.

Moments later, Knives arrived, skidding to a halt in front of the warehouse. Her breath came steady, her hand instinctively brushing against the knives holstered inside her coat. She glared at the open door, the darkness inside an almost tangible force. It felt like the place was swallowing the light whole, a void designed to lure in the unwary.

Havoc caught up a second later, his revolver at the ready. He slowed to a stop beside her, scanning their surroundings with sharp, calculating eyes. "A warehouse.." he muttered, his tone low and wary.

Knives stepped forward, her gaze narrowing. "Of course, it's a warehouse. Where else would rats like him hide?"

She pushed the door open further and stepped inside, the pitch-black interior swallowing her whole. The heavy, musty scent of rusted metal and damp concrete filled her nose. The faint dripping of water echoed somewhere in the distance, the sound bouncing off the cavernous walls.

Havoc followed, his gun raised. "Careful, Knives. He's not stupid. He'll have a plan."

Knives ignored him, her voice cutting through the silence like a blade. "NYX!" she called, her tone sharp and commanding, her voice echoing through the darkness. "You can't keep fucking hiding from me!"

Her words hung in the air, unanswered. The oppressive silence pressed in on her, the kind of silence that made her every step sound deafening. She paused, scanning the room, her muscles taut with anticipation.

"Come on out, you coward.." she hissed, her voice lowering into a venomous growl. "Let's get this over with!"

A soft metallic clink echoed in the distance, like a chain shifting or a pipe being struck. It was faint, almost imperceptible, but Knives caught it. Her grip tightened on the handle of one of her blades, her eyes darting toward the sound.

Havoc stayed close, his voice barely above a whisper. "He's leading us into something. Stay sharp."

Knives' lips curled into a smirk, her blood pumping with a mixture of fury and adrenaline. "Let him try," she murmured, stepping further into the abyss. "It won't save him."

The silence stretched on, thick and suffocating. Then, another metallic clink echoed through the warehouse, faint but deliberate.

Knives froze mid-step, her sharp eyes scanning the shadows for the source. Her ears perked up as a soft thud reached her—a small object hitting the ground near her feet. Something round. Something glowing faintly red.

"What the…" Bingo muttered, looking down just as the object began emitting a series of rapid, mechanical beeps.

Beep. Beep. Beep.

Her blood ran cold as the realization hit. Havoc, standing just a few feet behind her, immediately caught on as well.

"CRAP!" they shouted in unison.

"Bomb!" Havoc barked, already moving as the beeping grew louder and faster, the urgency of it making the hair on the back of his neck stand on end.

Without hesitation, Knives and Havoc dove in opposite directions, their instincts overriding everything else.

BOOM!

The explosion tore through the stillness of the warehouse, shattering the heavy silence with a deafening roar. Heat and light erupted from the small device, the force sending Knives and Havoc flying through the air like ragdolls.

Knives hit the ground hard, rolling several feet before slamming into a rusted support beam. She grunted, the wind knocked out of her as debris rained down around her. Her ears rang sharply, drowning out everything else. The acrid stench of burnt metal and smoke filled the air, clawing at her throat.

Havoc landed a few meters away, skidding across the cold, dusty floor. His revolver clattered from his grip, spinning off into the darkness. Groaning, he pushed himself up onto one knee, shaking his head to clear the haze.

"You okay?" Havoc called out, his voice muffled in Knives' ringing ears.

Knives coughed, forcing herself upright despite the ache radiating through her body. She wiped a trickle of blood from her lip, her eyes blazing with fury. "Yeah… just pissed off."

The explosion had left a gaping hole in the floor, exposing old wiring and concrete beneath. Smoke curled upward, shrouding the area in an eerie, stifling haze.

In the distance, Nyx's voice echoed, his laughter cutting through the aftermath like a knife. "What's the matter, Knives? Too slow?"

Knives snarled, her grip tightening around the handle of a blade she'd instinctively held onto during the blast. Her teeth bared in anger as she turned toward the direction of his voice.

"Havoc," she growled, her voice laced with venom. "Get up. I'm not letting this bastard walk away."

Havoc, already on his feet, retrieved his revolver from the debris. He smirked, a dangerous glint in his eye. "Oh, I'm right behind you."

Suddenly, with a loud clang, the lights snapped on, illuminating the warehouse in a harsh, glaring glow. Bingo and Havoc froze, their eyes scanning the room as the horrifying reality hit them: explosives. Dozens of them. Lining the walls, tucked into corners, and strapped to support beams. My god. The place was rigged to blow sky-high.

A slow, mocking clap echoed through the warehouse, drawing their attention upward. Nyx stood on a metal walkway high above them, his silhouette framed by the harsh light. His injured arm hung at his side, but in his good hand, he gripped a submachine gun with a trembling eagerness. His face twisted into a deranged smile, eyes wild with madness.

"Alright, Knives… Havoc… I've played your little game of cat and mouse," Nyx sneered, his voice dripping with manic energy. "But now? You're gonna play my game." He spread his arms theatrically, gesturing to the room around them. "This whole place? Rigged to blow. No one's leaving here alive tonight—not you, not me. We're gonna dance until this bitch goes up in flames!"

He threw his head back and laughed, the sound echoing through the cavernous space. "I'm taking you both straight to hell with me! Let's see how good you are when the clock's ticking, huh?"

Knives tilted her head slightly, her eyes narrowing as she took in the scene. Despite the tension, she didn't flinch. She simply scoffed, a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. "You're really leaning into the whole 'crazed villain' shtick, huh, Nyx?" she called up to him, her voice calm but cutting. "Here's the thing, though… before any bomb goes off? You're already dead."

Nyx's grin faltered for a moment before twisting into a snarl. "Big talk from a bitch who's walking straight into my trap!" he snapped, aiming the submachine gun at her.

Havoc glanced at Knives, his revolver gripped tightly in his hand. "You think he's bluffing?" he muttered under his breath.

Knives' eyes didn't leave Nyx. Her smirk faded, replaced by a cold, deadly determination. "Doesn't matter," she replied softly. "Bluff or not, he's going down."

"Bold words, Knives!" Nyx shouted from above, his finger hovering over the trigger of his submachine gun. His manic grin widened as his voice boomed across the cavernous warehouse. "Let's see if you can back them up! You've got two choices: stop me, or get blown to pieces trying!"

Knives rolled her shoulders, gripping her blade tightly. Her expression was unflinching, her voice sharp and steady. "Guess we're gonna try." She took a single step forward, her body coiled like a spring, ready to explode into action.

"Snarky bitch…" Nyx muttered under his breath, adjusting his aim. Then, his crazed smile returned, and he raised his voice once more. "RIGHT THEN! Five minutes, Knives! Five minutes until this place is dust! So let's make it count!" With that, he squeezed the trigger, unleashing a spray of bullets down at them.

The thunderous roar of the gunfire tore through the warehouse, sparks flying as the rounds ricocheted off metal beams and crates. Knives and Havoc darted in opposite directions, each moving with calculated precision.

Knives hit the ground in a low roll, narrowly avoiding the hail of bullets, before springing to her feet and dashing toward the cover of a stack of crates. Her mind raced as she eyed the walkway above. I need to get to him. If I can get close, he's dead.

Havoc, on the other hand, slipped into the shadows, his dark coat blending seamlessly into the dim corners of the room. He moved like a ghost, circling the perimeter and firing carefully timed shots at Nyx. Each shot was deliberate—not to kill, but to force Nyx to shift his position, disrupting his aim.

"Quit hiding!" Nyx roared, firing a burst of bullets in the direction of the muzzle flash. "Come out and die like a man!"

Knives used the distraction to her advantage, sprinting between cover points, her movements fluid and silent. She could see the staircase leading up to the walkway, but Nyx's erratic gunfire made a direct approach impossible.

"You think you're clever, Knives?" Nyx called out, his voice dripping with venom as he scanned the room below. "You're just a rat in a maze! And I'm the one holding the cheese!"

"Cheesy is right.." Havoc muttered under his breath, his revolver raised. With a sharp crack, he fired again, the bullet striking the metal railing just inches from Nyx's leg.

"Goddammit!" Nyx stumbled, momentarily distracted as he shifted his aim toward Havoc's position.

Knives seized the moment. She darted out from behind the crates, running full tilt toward the staircase. Her boots thudded against the ground as she sprinted, her knife gleaming in her hand.

"THERE YOU ARE!" Nyx shouted, spotting her movement. He swung the submachine gun toward her and let loose another torrent of bullets.

Knives dove to the side, sliding behind another stack of crates just as the bullets tore through the air where she had been moments before. Splinters and shards of wood flew in every direction, but she remained unscathed.

"Come on, Spider.." she muttered under her breath, peering out from her cover.

Meanwhile, Havoc shifted to a new vantage point, his revolver steady in his hands. He lined up a shot and fired, the bullet striking the walkway near Nyx's feet. The sharp clang of metal startled the Jack Russell, causing him to stumble backward.

"KEEP STILL, YOU BASTARD!" Nyx screamed, his frustration boiling over. He fired another wild burst, but Havoc had already moved.

Knives took a deep breath, her grip tightening around her blade. She knew she had to act now, while Nyx was distracted. With catlike agility, she burst from her hiding spot and bolted toward the staircase, her feet barely touching the ground as she ascended the metal steps.

Nyx caught the movement out of the corner of his eye and turned, his grin returning. "Oh, you're making this too easy!" he taunted, raising his gun to fire.

But Havoc was quicker. A single, well-placed shot rang out, striking the submachine gun and sending it clattering from Nyx's hands.

"SHIT!" Nyx yelled, his eyes widening in panic as he scrambled for his backup weapon.

By the time he looked up, Knives was already on the walkway, her blade glinting ominously as she stalked toward him. Her gaze was locked on his, cold and unrelenting.

"You've run out of games, Nyx," she said, her voice low and deadly. "Now it's just you… and me."

Nyx backed away, his hand fumbling for the knife at his belt. "You think you've won?" he hissed, his bravado faltering. "This place is still gonna blow, and you're going with it!"

Knives smirked, twirling her blade in her hand. "Then I guess I better make this quick."

Below, Havoc reloaded his revolver, his eyes scanning the explosives scattered around the room. "No pressure.." he called up to her, "but we've got about four minutes to settle this and get the hell out of here."

Knives didn't respond. Her focus was solely on Nyx, the prey that had finally been cornered.

Nyx pulled a knife from his belt with his good arm, the blade glinting under the dim light of the warehouse. His movements were quick and precise, belying his injury. Despite the blood dripping from his wounded arm, his grin remained wide, his confidence seemingly unshaken.

"Let's see if you're as good as they say.." he snarled, circling her like a predator.

Knives didn't respond. She simply raised her blade, her stance steady, her gaze fixed on Nyx's every move.

"Nothing to say? Fine by me…" He lunged suddenly, his knife flashing in an arc toward her throat.

Knives sidestepped, the blade slicing through empty air. She countered immediately, her knife slashing downward toward his exposed side. Nyx twisted his body just in time, the blade grazing his shirt but not his skin.

"Close, sweetheart.." he taunted, his voice laced with mockery. "But not close enough!"

He spun on his heel, bringing his knife around in a quick, sweeping motion aimed at her midsection. Knives parried the strike, their blades clashing with a sharp clang that echoed through the warehouse. Sparks flew as the force of the impact reverberated through their weapons.

Nyx pressed forward, his attacks relentless. He slashed high, then low, mixing his angles in an attempt to throw her off balance. Knives weaved through his strikes, her movements precise and economical, her blade deflecting his with a sharp ping each time.

"You think you're better than me!?" Nyx growled, his voice rising in frustration. "I've killed more people than you could count! You're just a kid playing dress-up!"

Knives didn't flinch. She ducked under a wild swing, stepping into his guard and driving her knee into his stomach. Nyx grunted, stumbling back a step but quickly recovering. He came at her again, his knife thrusting toward her chest.

She pivoted, catching his wrist with her free hand and twisting sharply. The knife clattered to the floor, but Nyx didn't hesitate. He drove his elbow toward her face with his uninjured arm.

Knives leaned back, narrowly avoiding the blow, but Nyx pressed the advantage. He tackled her, slamming her against the metal railing of the walkway. The impact rattled the structure, and for a moment, the world spun as they grappled for control.

Nyx's hands closed around her wrist, attempting to disarm her. "Not so tough now, are you?" he sneered through gritted teeth, using his weight to pin her against the railing. "Without that fancy little knife of yours, you're nothing!"

Knives' eyes narrowed, and with a sharp twist of her hips, she broke free from his grip. She spun, her blade flashing in a deadly arc aimed at his throat. Nyx barely managed to duck, the blade slicing a shallow line across his cheek.

"Bitch!" he spat, staggering back and wiping the blood from his face. "You're gonna regret that!"

He charged at her, swinging wildly with his fists. Knives sidestepped, her blade cutting across his forearm in a clean, precise motion. Nyx roared in pain, but the injury only seemed to fuel his rage.

He threw a vicious haymaker with his uninjured arm. Knives ducked under it, slamming the hilt of her knife into his ribs. The force drove the air from his lungs, but he didn't stop. He spun on his heel, his foot lashing out in a desperate kick.

The blow caught Knives in the side, forcing her back a step. Nyx seized the opening, grabbing a loose pipe from the walkway and swinging it toward her head.

Knives raised her blade just in time, the knife meeting the pipe with a deafening clang. The impact jarred her arm, but she held firm, locking eyes with Nyx.

"What's wrong, Knives?" he snarled, his breath ragged. "Losing your edge?"

She didn't answer. Instead, she stepped inside his guard, her movements fluid and unrelenting. She slashed at his leg, forcing him to stagger back. Her blade followed, striking his shoulder, his side, his thigh—each cut calculated to weaken him, to wear him down.

Nyx was panting now, his movements slower, more erratic. Blood dripped from a dozen cuts, staining the walkway beneath them.

"Three minutes… heh…" Nyx wheezed, blood pooling at his side as he forced himself upright, a crazed grin stretching across his face. "You know what? I've been saving this… for someone strong. And you—" he pointed his bloodied hand at Knives, his finger trembling with a mix of pain and adrenaline—"you're gonna be the first to witness it."

Knives tilted her head, her grip on her blade tightening. From below, Havoc shifted uneasily, his gun still trained upward. Nyx reached into his blazer with a shaking hand and pulled out a syringe filled with a glowing red liquid. The substance shimmered, almost alive, as if it were coursing with power.

"What the hell is that?" Havoc muttered, his voice echoing faintly in the tense silence.

Knives narrowed her eyes, her focus locked on Nyx. She didn't respond—didn't dare give him the satisfaction of her curiosity.

Nyx held the syringe up, his grin growing even wilder. "This isn't an augmentation, no—none of that experimental bullshit. This—" he gestured with the syringe, the red liquid catching the dim light—"this is pure adrenaline. A cocktail I've been cooking up just for a day like this." He laughed, the sound unhinged and raspy. "It's not gonna make me superhuman, no, but it's gonna give me just enough of a kick to put you down for good!"

Knives raised an eyebrow, her stance shifting slightly. She didn't trust him—not his words, not his theatrics—but she didn't underestimate him either.

Nyx wasted no time. He plunged the syringe into his neck, the glowing liquid disappearing into his bloodstream. His body convulsed for a moment, his hand trembling as he yanked the empty syringe out and smashed it onto the walkway with a sharp crash.

A guttural growl escaped his throat as he hunched over, his breaths turning ragged and feral. His muscles tensed and swelled ever so slightly, his veins bulging unnaturally along his neck and arms. Even his injured arm hung less limp, the pain seemingly dulled—or entirely ignored. His eyes snapped up, glowing with manic energy, his pupils blown wide as if consumed by the drug coursing through his system.

"Nyx…" Havoc muttered under his breath, now aiming his gun directly at the Jack Russell's head.

Nyx snapped his head toward Havoc and snarled, a crazed grin splitting his bloodied face. "Stay out of this, you bottom-feeder. The little heeler's mine!"

Knives felt her pulse quicken as Nyx bared his fangs, his entire body trembling with raw, unrestrained energy. She stepped back, bracing herself, but before she could react, Nyx let out a roar and launched himself at her like a predator unchained.

He moved faster than before, closing the distance in a blink. Knives barely managed to sidestep his first strike, his fist slamming into the metal railing with a deafening clang. The impact left a visible dent, and the vibration rattled up the walkway.

"What's the matter, ROOKIE?!" Nyx barked, spinning toward her with another swing of his fist.

She ducked under his wild punch, her blade slicing across his torso in retaliation. The wound barely phased him—he grinned through the pain, blood trickling down his shirt as he came at her again, relentless.

Nyx threw a flurry of strikes, his movements erratic but devastating. Knives dodged and deflected, her blade weaving through his attacks like a serpent, but the force behind his blows was monstrous. A missed swing slammed into the railing again, nearly tearing it loose.

"You think you're better than me?!" Nyx roared, his voice distorted with adrenaline and fury. He lashed out with a kick, catching Knives in the ribs and sending her skidding across the walkway. "You think you've got what it takes to KILL me?! I'm NOTHING like Archer!"

She grunted, rolling to her feet just as Nyx closed the gap again. This time, he grabbed her wrist mid-swing, his grip like iron. "Gotcha now!" he hissed, twisting her arm. Knives grimaced but used the momentum to drive her knee into his gut.

Nyx barely reacted, his other hand slamming into her shoulder to shove her back. His smile widened. "That all you got?!"

Knives didn't waste time answering. She spun out of his grip, her blade flashing upward to cut deep into his shoulder. Nyx roared in pain but countered instantly, ramming her with his good arm. The impact sent her staggering, her feet barely keeping her grounded.

"Come on!" Nyx taunted, his voice cracking as he raised his fists. "This is the best you can do?! You think you can take me out before this whole place goes up in flames?!"

Knives didn't hesitate. She lunged forward, her blade aimed at his throat. Nyx dodged at the last second, his injured arm swinging up in a desperate but powerful block. The hilt of her knife connected with his wrist, and the blade clattered from her grasp, falling to the walkway.

For a moment, the two assassins stood locked in close quarters, their breaths heavy and hot, their eyes burning with mutual hatred. Nyx's grin faltered, replaced by a wild snarl as he headbutted her.

Knives stumbled back, stars flashing in her vision. Nyx didn't let up, barreling into her with unrelenting force. She caught his wrist mid-strike, twisting and flipping him over her shoulder. He crashed onto the walkway, the metal groaning beneath his weight.

Knives pounced, retrieving her blade and pinning him down. But Nyx was far from done—he grabbed her wrist with his injured arm, roaring through the pain, and threw her off him with a surge of manic strength.

"You're one.. tough.. cookie…" he spat, staggering to his feet, his body trembling with exertion. "But if I go down.. you're going down with me!"

Knives steadied herself, her blade gleaming as she advanced again. Nyx met her charge with a crazed laugh, his bloodied figure a portrait of desperation and chaos!

Nyx's fists came down like hammers, relentless and brutal. Knives barely managed to block the first few strikes, but her movements were slowing. Every dodge, every parry, every step back was costing her precious energy, and Nyx knew it. His adrenaline-fueled assault was like a storm—wild, chaotic, and overpowering.

"Where's that fire now, huh?!" Nyx barked, slamming his knee into her stomach. The force knocked the wind out of her, and she crumpled to the metal walkway, clutching her ribs.

Knives gasped, her vision blurring as she tried to push herself up.

Get up… she thought, her body screaming in protest. Move, damn it!

Nyx's shadow loomed over her. "You're slowing down, pup!" he sneered, grabbing her by the collar of her shirt and yanking her to her feet. "Where's that big, bad assassin I've been hearing about?!" He punched her across the face, her head snapping to the side. Blood dripped from her lip, staining her fur, he then punched her again.. and again.. and again..

Havoc, watching from below, gritted his teeth. "Knives, come on!" he shouted, but his voice was drowned out by the chaos around them. His grip tightened on his gun, but he hesitated. "Goddamn it..!"

Nyx shoved Knives against the railing, his grip like iron as he pressed her over the edge. "Look at you," he spat, his crazed eyes narrowing. "Just another rookie BITCH out of her depth. You think you're tough? You're nothing! HA! And to think you thought you could take me on?!"

Knives struggled, her body trembling as she tried to push him off. Her mind was a whirlwind of pain and desperation.

He's too strong… I can't—no. NO. I can't lose. I WON'T lose.

Something shifted inside her—a deep, primal instinct clawing its way to the surface. Her heart pounded like a war drum, her breathing turning ragged. The pain in her body dulled, replaced by a searing heat that spread through her veins like fire.

Nyx leaned in close, his breath hot against her ear. "Any last words before I drop you, little red—"

Her head snapped up, and Nyx froze. Her eyes were no longer filled with fear or exhaustion—they burned with an intensity that sent a shiver down his spine. Her pupils were razor-sharp, her gaze predatory, almost feral. Her lips curled back, revealing fangs that glistened under the dim light.

"What the hell—" was all Nyx managed to say before Knives let out a guttural growl and exploded into motion.

With a wild burst of strength, she wrenched herself free from his grip, slamming her head into his with brutal force.

"FUCK!" Nyx staggered back, clutching his bleeding forehead, but Knives didn't stop. She was on him in an instant, her movements erratic and animalistic.

"Knives?!" Havoc called from below, his voice laced with both awe and alarm. The way she moved—it wasn't normal.

She wasn't just fighting anymore..she was hunting, once more.

Knives ducked under Nyx's wild swing, her body twisting unnaturally as she drove her fist into his ribs. The crack of bone echoed through the warehouse, followed by Nyx's pained grunt. She followed up with a slash of her blade, the cut shallow but precise, drawing a line of crimson across his chest.

"Stay still, you crazy bitch!" Nyx roared, swinging his fist in desperation.

She dodged effortlessly, her movements unpredictable and fluid, like a storm given form. She closed the distance in a flash, grabbing his wrist and twisting it for good this time.

Nyx screamed in pain, but Knives didn't let up. She slammed her knee into his stomach, jabbed his chest a few times, then grabbed him by the back of the head and smashed his face into the railing. Blood splattered across the metal, and Nyx stumbled, dazed and barely able to stand.

"I'm.. gonna enjoy tearing you apart.." Knives muttered, an animalistic grin on her face. That saying with the dark makeup she was wearing was terrifying..

Havoc watched in stunned silence, his jaw clenched. This wasn't the Knives he knew. This was something else entirely—something monstrous. Her eyes burned with an unrelenting rage, her lips pulled back in a snarl as she stalked toward Nyx.

Nyx swung his fist in a last-ditch effort, but she caught it mid-air, her grip like a vice. "What are you..?!" he choked out, his voice trembling.

Knives didn't answer. She slammed her forehead into his again, her strength sending him crashing to the floor. Before he could react, she was on him, her blade flashing as she drove it toward his chest.

Nyx barely managed to roll away, the blade missing by inches. He scrambled to his feet, but Knives was faster. She pounced, slamming him into the wall with enough force to make the structure tremble. Her blade pressed against his throat, her eyes boring into his with a look that promised death.

Knives was trembling as her chest heaved with ragged breaths. Blood dripped from the blade's edge, and Nyx lay sprawled beneath her, coughing and wheezing. His eyes were wide, glazed with pain and fear.

"You're… you're insane," he choked out, his voice a broken rasp.

Knives tilted her head slightly, her lips curling into a snarl as her bloodlust flared. "I'm FULLY aware!" she growled. Without another word, she dropped the blade and slammed her fist into his face with brutal force.

The crack of bone echoed through the warehouse. Nyx's head snapped to the side, but Knives didn't stop. Another punch followed. Then another. And another. Each strike landed with increasing ferocity, Nyx's face becoming a mess of blood and swelling. He tried to raise an arm to shield himself, but she swatted it away like it was nothing.

Knives snarled, her knuckles splitting from the sheer force of her punches. Her mind raced with images of her sister in the hospital, hooked up to machines, her body limp and fragile.. she thought about how her family was put in DANGER because of these guys, each punch got heavier and heavier.

She was pissed..

Havoc stared from below, frozen as he watched the scene unfold. This wasn't the focused, pragmatic Knives he'd partnered with. This was something darker, more visceral. Her movements were wild, her strikes relentless, each one filled with raw hatred.

"Knives, stop!" he called out, but she didn't hear him, he started to run towards the stairs.

Nyx gurgled, spitting blood as he tried to speak. "Y-you think this… is gonna fix shit…?" he wheezed, laughing.. his words are barely audible. "This is... NOTHING!"

Knives roared, slamming his head back against the metal floor of the walkway. "SHUT YOUR MOUTH!" she screamed, her voice raw and unhinged. She raised her fist again, ready to finish him off, but before she could deliver another blow, Havoc's hand clamped down on her shoulder.

"Knives, that's enough!" Havoc barked, his voice sharp as he grabbed her shoulder and yanked her back with all his strength. "We've got less than a minute before this place goes up in flames!"

Knives didn't move right away. Her gaze remained locked on Nyx's mangled, bloodied form, her chest heaving with each ragged breath. Her fists trembled at her sides, stained crimson, her knuckles raw from the relentless assault. She was caught in the storm of her emotions, her bloodlust and fury battling against a faint whisper of reason.

"He deserves it.." she muttered, her voice low, venom dripping from each word.

"Maybe he does!" Havoc snapped, stepping into her line of sight and forcing her to look at him. "But if you stay here, you'll die too. This isn't how you end it. Not like this."

Her eyes flickered, the burning intensity in them faltering as Havoc's words cut through the haze. Slowly, painfully, she let out a sharp exhale and stood upright. Her bloodied fists unclenched, though her entire body still trembled with pent-up rage. She stared down at Nyx one last time, her lips curling into a bitter snarl.

"…Rot in hell," she spat before turning sharply on her heel.

"Finally." Havoc muttered, grabbing her arm and pulling her along as they sprinted down the narrow walkway toward the warehouse's exit.

Behind them, Nyx coughed weakly, blood bubbling from his lips. Through the pain, a crazed grin spread across his face. "You're gonna burn… with me…" he wheezed, his broken laughter echoing through the cavernous space, mingling with the relentless blare of the countdown alarm. "You're gonna BURN! WITH ME! DO YOU HEAR ME KNIVES!?"

10… 9… 8…

Knives and Havoc barreled through the shadows, their boots slamming against the metal walkway. The structure groaned ominously, shuddering as flames licked along the walls and crawled up support beams. Smoke thickened the air, making it harder to breathe. The piercing wail of the alarm cut through the chaos, each shrill note a reminder of how little time they had left.

7… 6…

"Move! MOVE!" Havoc shouted, shoving Knives forward as a section of the ceiling collapsed behind them, sending a rain of sparks and debris crashing down.

Knives gritted her teeth, adrenaline coursing through her veins as she leapt over a fallen beam, the heat from the spreading fire biting at her heels. The sound of the ticking timer was deafening now, each beep hammering into her skull.

5… 4…

The ground beneath them trembled, the vibrations of the impending explosion rippling through the warehouse. Knives stole a glance over her shoulder at the inferno consuming the space, flames roaring like a living beast, devouring everything in its path.

3…

2…

1…

BOOM!

They reached the exit just in time. The shockwave hit them like a freight train, throwing both of them forward with brutal force. Knives hit the ground hard, rolling across the rough concrete as chunks of debris rained down around her. The roar of the explosion was overwhelming, a thunderous cacophony that drowned out everything else.

The warehouse behind them detonated in a cascade of fire and shrapnel, the walls buckling outward as the flames surged skyward in a towering plume of destruction. Metal twisted and screeched, beams collapsing with a series of resounding crashes.

Knives lay on her side, coughing violently as she tried to catch her breath. Her entire body ached, her muscles screaming in protest as she pushed herself up onto her hands and knees. The world around her was a blur of heat and smoke, the acrid scent of burning metal filling her lungs.

Havoc groaned beside her, his face streaked with soot and sweat. He sat up slowly, clutching his side as he turned to look at her. His eyes widened slightly as he took in the state she was in—her knuckles raw and bloody, her hair matted with sweat and ash, her expression distant and cold.

"What the hell was that?" he asked, his voice low and strained.

Knives didn't answer right away. She stared at the flaming wreckage of the warehouse, her reflection flickering in the fiery glow. Her hands trembled slightly as she wiped them on her pants, her jaw tightening as she tried to suppress the storm still raging inside her.

When she finally spoke, her voice was cold and detached. "...That was me making sure he got what he deserved."

Havoc stared at her, a mixture of unease and concern flickering across his face. For the first time, he realized just how far she was willing to go—and it left a chill in his chest.

Somehow, Bingo and Havoc blended into the panicking crowd as they both walked away. Bingo was deep in her thoughts.

Knives didn't say a word as she turned her back on the blazing inferno, her shadow cast long against the flames. The warehouse burned violently behind her, the explosion leaving nothing but rubble and the twisted remnants of Nyx's madness. Havoc hesitated for a moment, staring at the destruction before shaking his head and following her lead.

"Let's get the hell outta here," Knives muttered, her voice flat but firm. She tilted her head slightly, catching the faint wail of sirens in the distance. "Cops are on the way." Without looking back, she quickened her pace, disappearing into the maze of streets.

Havoc groaned as he pulled himself to his feet, brushing ash and soot from his jacket. He cast one last glance at the scene behind them before muttering under his breath, "This girl is insane…" Despite the chaos of their escape, a flicker of grudging respect crept into his tone.

As they slipped away from the fiery carnage, the streets around them erupted into a frenzy. People spilled out of nearby buildings, gawking at the rising column of smoke. Chaos blanketed the scene, panicked voices and frantic footsteps drowning out the sirens that were drawing closer. Knives and Havoc moved silently, their pace unhurried but purposeful, expertly blending into the growing crowd.

For Knives, the noise and confusion faded into a dull hum as her thoughts swirled. Her mind latched onto the image of Nyx's lifeless body and the rage that had driven her to nearly destroy him.

Another filthy spider… dead by my hand. she thought, her fists clenching instinctively at her sides. Nyx. His bounty? 215,000 AUD. That's what his life amounted to. But he's leaving behind a drug empire… trafficking rings… poison that'll keep spreading. And me? I'm no cop. I'm not here to fix the mess he's made.

Knives shook her head sharply, pushing the intrusive thoughts aside. The blood still smeared across her knuckles was proof enough of her work. Nyx was finished. That was all that mattered.

Havoc walked beside her, his gaze darting around cautiously as they melted further into the night. He stole a glance at her, watching as she seemed lost in her own world. Her expression was distant, yet her body language radiated the tension of someone who had just come down from a high-stakes fight.

Finally, he broke the silence. "You alright?"

Knives didn't answer immediately, her eyes focused straight ahead. When she did speak, her voice was low, her words clipped. "I'm fine. Let's just get out of here before the cops start asking questions."

Havoc didn't press further. He knew better. Instead, he shook his head and followed her through the winding streets, blending further into the chaos until they were just another pair of shadows vanishing into the night.

…

Eventually, Havoc and Bingo split ways for the night, each disappearing into the shadows of the city. By the time Bingo returned home, the clock had ticked past 1 a.m. The faint hum of streetlights outside her window was the only noise breaking the silence. Wrapped up in her blankets, Bingo lay in bed, her body exhausted but her mind restless.

Two down… six more to go, she thought, staring up at the dimly lit ceiling. The weight of her mission pressed on her chest, but tonight, it felt lighter. Her eyes flickered to her personal phone on the nightstand. After a moment of hesitation, she reached for it, scrolling through her contacts before pressing the call button.

The line rang twice before a familiar voice answered. "Yeah? What's up, Knives?" Judo's tone was calm but alert, as if she'd been waiting for this call.

"I killed another spider." Bingo said bluntly, her voice quieter now that she was away from the chaos.

There was a pause on the other end. Then, "…Oh. How are you feeling?" Judo asked, her voice tinged with concern.

Bingo exhaled, her fingers idly tracing the edge of her blanket. "Honestly? Killing this one felt… different. Like I was doing the world a favor. Nyx was a parasite, a scumbag. I don't feel guilty about it."

"Nyx," Judo repeated, as if turning the name over in her mind. "I see… He was one of the nastier ones, no doubt. Well, he's dead, and you're still breathing. I knew you could pull it off, Bingo. I just… I wish I could've been there with you. Fighting at your side."

Bingo smiled faintly at Judo's sincerity, though her expression softened with gratitude. "Judo, you do more than enough. You're watching over Bluey, and that's all I could ever ask for, okay? I couldn't do this without knowing you've got her back. That means everything to me."

On the other end of the line, Judo was quiet for a beat before she replied, her voice warm but a little shaky. "…Thanks, Bingo… That really means a lot."

"No need to thank me," Bingo said with a small chuckle. "Just keep doing what you're doing. I appreciate you more than I let on."

The silence between them was comfortable now, like the weight of their shared responsibilities made their bond stronger.

"Alright," Bingo finally said, her voice softening. "I'm gonna let you off the hook now. Gotta get some rest before this whole thing starts again. Happy New Year, Judo."

Judo's voice brightened slightly, the warmth returning. "Happy New Year, Bingo. Get some sleep, alright?"

"I'll try," Bingo murmured before hanging up.

Bingo rolled onto her side, the soft glow of the streetlights outside filtering through the blinds and casting faint patterns on her ceiling. She closed her eyes, willing her racing thoughts to quiet. The adrenaline from earlier had long since faded, leaving behind a restless kind of exhaustion. Yet, her mind wouldn't let her drift off entirely.

Next on the list… Nyx and Archer's partner in crime… Axel.