The Spider's Shadow (AparinaAkumu x LukeDeadwood)

[AparinaAkumu]

Reference Images

Yuri Chio (a.k.a Katachi or Snowy)
Shadow Wolf and the way all the shadow creatures sort of look

For most the night was like any other. The moon waning, the sky full of stars with the occasional disruptive cloud. A comfortably cool night of late summer. Fall was just around the corner, and many people were heading home from camping for the season. That made it a perfect time for the retreat planned by a rather unlikely group.

The leaders of a local ring of crime had decided on having a group outing followed by a camp out. They talked business casually over some fishing and bow hunting, and had an overall nice time with the rings chief organizer. The group mostly stayed together in some nicer RVs and camping trailers, but one man had a tent set up and the nearest campsite to the parking areas. His RV had been checked for a sabotage and discovered, so he rode with a trusted member of the group and pitched his tent before the others arrived. Just for safety.

This man was woken up in the night by sounds around his tent. He pulled his knife and prepared to meet his attacker. The park they were in known for its safe areas and no animal attacks in over fifty years, so it only occurred to the man that an animal might be present after he was face to face with one. A large wolf with red eyes barring its fangs.

Before the man could close up his tent, or climb out of it, the lupine was on him. Cries and grunts of the struggle muffled by the tent itself as it came down around them, and the struggle lasted incredibly short for a wild attack.

In the darkness, the shadowy figure of the wolf emerged with clearly dampened fur. Though it acted very unusual for a creature of the forest. It went around, systematically staging the scene. The knife it had been harmed by was rubbed against to coat in both the animal and man's blood, effectively hiding any other human trail. The wounds of the animal kept it near the tent until it stopped bleeding. Finally it went to closed bags and sealed containers to open and toss them around as if they were meaningless.

Only once that was done, the wolf taking one last look around, would the creature step just out of an initial search area and begin to change. Soon enough a human man whose white hair had a single streak of black in the fringe between his red eyes, was left standing and coated in blood and similar wounds to the animal that his form replaced. He retrieved a duffle bag and pulled out a book before scanning over the marked page and humming thoughtfully. He then retrieved a radio, dialing in the code before announcing softly, "wild dog attack. No attention grabbed. Will create a ruckus before leaving to establish proper timeline." Only once he got a confirmation did he look to the radio and smile. A black shadow coating his hand and enlarging around it before he crushed the device and dropped the pieces back into the duffle bag. Except a little chip of a tracking device. That he wiped clean with his shirt and threw into the brush near him. After all, it didn't matter to him if his boss got caught. So long as he got paid.

Then he went about setting up for the ruckus he was to cause to gain the attention of others, well, to cause a scene he could easily escape through.

 

[LukeDeadwood]

For many nights had the hunt stretched on. Starting back from before the planned retreat, day after day tracking the crime ring’s movement up to the present time. A figure sat perched high up on a tree, well away from the group held no fear that he would be caught. One solid fact that was proven time and time again throughout his years of hunting was that nobody ever looked up until it was too late.

Removing his cap Es’kit glanced up at the night sky, the borrowed light from the moon causing the faintest of glows in his eyes. A light breeze from the shifting temperature in the air brushed against his bangs and he released a sigh. His mind was endlessly churning with thoughts as his right hand drifted into the pocket of his coat, pressing against the piece of neatly folded paper he’d drawn up with everything he needed to know of his target. Eyes on the prize he tore his gaze from the star-filled sky, drifting to the lone tent as he place his cap back in it’s rightful spot. A smirk filled with a silent promise of danger and thrill to come played at his lips.

The night was perfect. If he played his cards right he could leave with more than one victim in his bag. Tricky. But doable. The men oblivious to his presence were like a farm to him, numbers adding up in his head. If he could grab the target himself and two or three others, he’d be set for easily half a year. Use the target first, then turn him in to get the money attached to his name, then repeat the process with the remaining few. An excellent chain to grow brood after brood, and let the cash flow in when he was done with them. A flawless system he’d been living by through the majority of his life since his “teenage” stage. Only, this time around, it didn’t seem quite so flawless.

Es’kit had been ready to make his move. He slid his thick jacket off, revealing a rather tattered black tank top, the matte black of his carapace faintly glinting through as four distinctly spider-like appendages seemingly grew out of premade holes of the loose fabric; accompanied by a smaller abdomen greatly resembling that of a widow’s sprouting from his lower back, though was made for mostly accommodating the spinneret. And lowering his cap, he covered the two smaller eyes that formed just above his brows, preferring to keep them covered. He was little more than a shadow as he travelled from one tree to the next in one grand leap, his added features making it easy to travel in silence. It would only take a moment. Drop down on the tent to take the target by surprise and to silence him with a bite. That’s all it would take.

But he hadn’t anticipated movement from an unknown, unanticipated variable. Instinct halted his movement and he hunkered down, the claws as the end of his legs keeping him glued into place as he watched what seemed to be a wolf make it’s presence know. Though, immediately Es’kit knew it was more complex than that. He knew something abnormal when he saw it. But it didn’t dampen the feeling of his thrill and careful planning getting squashed, a scowl forming in place of the previously existing smirk. ‘Damn.’ He’d been too slow. Beaten by just a minute.

He said not a single word, not making even a sound as he watched the murder take place. Unfazed by the violent act it seemed to end as quickly as it began. From one Hunter to another, it was impressive. Still there was disappointment in his chest, ‘wasteful’ flashing through his mind. A dead body had no use for him. He required live prey. And while he could still snatch up the other souls unaware of the event, they just weren’t the one he’d signed up to catch. Disappointing.

With an internal sigh he continued to observe, tilting his head as he watched the creature stage the scene. All the more peculiar, an undeniable curiosity bubbling up en lieu of his disappointment. Without much added thought he acted upon said emotion, stalking the wolf to see where it would go. Who was behind this shadowy creature that disturbed his hunt? He wanted to know. It just wasn’t often he came across other non-humans on a hunt. And oh did he find his answer.

His breath hitched just faintly, a feeling of awe swelling in his chest. ‘Oh.’ He was well aware of magic and the extent of its existence and power. But there was never any telling who was behind it. He’d been expected it to have been a summoned creature, not an actual man. Or rather, a demon perhaps? Or some semblance of one. A pleasant surprise. Quickly finding himself forgetting about his previous plans he tilted his head wanting to watch and creep closer, to listen to him. But not too close. Es’kit didn’t want to risk detection.

 

[AparinaAkumu]

As the white haired man went about his preparations, a very faint sound could be heard from his duffel bag. The device was a secondary radio, that he hesitantly fished out of the bag and clicked to alert the noise maker that he had received the initial sound.

"Snowy, you close to our last location? Where are you?" The casual voice came over the phone. The man visibly recoiled at the voice but sighed and held down the speaker button to respond, "I got another offer. What do you want?"

"That's just it, I um, I have a client. Yup and they want to have a meeting." The voice was trying its best to be convincing but the man on the other end didn't seem to be a professional. Clearly just a human who didn't know what they were dealing with.

"A meeting? You mentioned it was extra for the chance to see me in person?" The white haired man, Snowy as the voice said, was clearly bored already as he proceeded to pack his things and prepare a scene. Tying a bundle together before lighting it.

"Of course, I gave them the whole deal. They already got a radio for you and everything." At this point Snowy wasn't really listening, and instead had fished out a lighter and was working on a fuse.

"I'll radio back in two hours. Stand by," he said before tossing the device into his duffel. He tossed the lit bundle at the fire pit near the tent of the now deceased target before pulling on a jacket, picking up his pack, and heading off into the woods deeper.

Ten or so minutes would pass until the albino reached a path, and he looked towards the sky to check his direction. Once certain he would follow the path north to a separate area away from the RV campers. Not bothering to look back as the loud bangs came from the nearby camping areas. Similar to gunshots, and alerting real wolves in the area of fresh meat to draw them in. Not to mention any campers awake would startle.

 

[LukeDeadwood]

Ever still did Es’kit remain silent, listening and watching. Snowy? An alias, no doubt. Or nickname at the very least. Either way, it was good to have a name to stick to the unknown face now. And the knowledge that was a hitman, obviously, given the murder and the set-up of the scene. He’d seen all types throughout his hunts.

Curiosity continued to rise the more he eavesdropped on the conversation, watching with rapt attention. He was less concerned about the so called ‘meeting’ this Snowy character couldn’t care less about, and was much more interested in the little bundle he held. Killing was easy. Rigging explosives required more finesse, even if it was something as simple as fireworks. Not that the bar was set very high… It was appalling to see how many morons littered the dark and grimy world of criminal activity. ‘I’m just being rude at this point.’

Only briefly did his gaze turn back to the now temporarily oblivious campers, making a silent promise to himself to return for a victim before following behind the stranger who’s alias and occupation he knew, curiosity leading him along like a cat after a mouse.

It was a rather unfair advantage he supposed. Some would call him crazy, some would call him stupid just as he would they. But his plans were slowly changing and he wanted to level to playing field. It just wouldn’t be interesting if he left without introducing himself. A non-human deserved that much.

Once he deemed they were a decent enough distance away from the ruckus did Es’kit finally decide to slip out from the cover of the trees. Not a sound was made as he briefly knelt on the ground, allowing just enough time for his spider features to hide before taking a stand to continue the “chase on foot, pulling his jacket from his waist to don it again as he went. It was still early in the game, and he couldn’t reveal all of his secrets just yet.

With every step he was cautious yet determined, making sure to not make too much sound while also not faking too far behind. Even with the noise in the background from the camp he was careful. But wondering thoughts ran through his mind one immediately after the other.

Had this man been scoping the target out for as long as he himself had? He had to have been. He clearly had these paths mapped out to be navigating them the way he was. Even if the man could shift the way he can, his presence still should’ve been noticed. Es’kit would’ve frowned from his lack diligence, succumbing to a brief spell of carelessness, if he wasn’t so intrigued.

 

[AparinaAkumu]

As Snowy walked he had this feeling. Usually the man wouldn't listen to a gut instinct and would just keep walking as normal. However the pocket watch pinned to his suspender strap began to tug at him. The power the artifact held trying to keep its new master safe. After all, if he just discarded the item it wouldn't have a chance at a meal for itself.

So Snowy allowed the magic to cover him again. This time it was small, just covering his hair and ears to create a shadow of deer ears above his head and turn his bright white hair dark. Allowing him to hide better with his similarly dark coat, pants, and duffel as well if need be. Only then had he thought he heard something behind him.

Still it wasn't certain, and he didn't feel the need to worry about it. Perhaps a wild animal. Instead he kept walking along the path until it opened up at a lake. There the path split into three trails, one to either side of the water and another through a small thicket before coming out to a small highway near a motel and convenience store. Here the man paused and pulled out his watch, the shadows covering his head retreating to the device as he checked the time.

I might catch a fresh sandwich at the gas station if I keep this pace, he thought with a smile. Snowy then put his watch away and looked around at the calm a moment. The dark, inky water looking so inviting. He made a note to come back for a night swim once the scene was cleared.

That's when he remember his error. He had been so worried about his schedule that he hadn't bothered cleaning himself up. "Shit," he muttered as he quickly stepped off the path towards the water. He then stripped his jacket and inspected it for blood, before removing his button up as well. From there he looked for a new shirt in his duffel and checked his pants for any noticeable blood as he tied his shirt around a larger stone to throw into the murky lake.

 

[LukeDeadwood]

The more they walked, the more intrigued Es’kit grew. One moment Snowy looked like a regular human, white hair glinting faintly in the moonlight that filtered through the trees. Then the next moment, all Es’kit had to do was blink and the man he was following looked different. He could’ve missed him if he wasn’t so attentive. Sudden ears — a deer’s? — sprouting and hair changing color just wasn’t enough to throw him.

Though he did find himself wondering if Snowy was going to try and leave looking the way he did. Es’kit was well aware they were nearing the edge of the woods, and the blood the albino was coated in only screamed that his committed murder after all. The exit wasn’t far from the upcoming lake, so he hoped—

The thought ended the instant he caught sight of Snowy stopping made him pause in turn, curious if maybe he’d been caught or if the man’s mind was changing in some way or another. On the side of caution Es’kit ducks behind a tree, peaking around it to see what the shifter’s movements were.

The faux worry disappeared as quickly as it came as he watched the man step towards the water. Good. Not only had Es’kit remained undetected, but Snowy was going to fully clean up before reuniting with civilization. He’d have been disappointed if such a rooky mistake had been made.

Taking his chance Es’kit slowly began to make his way closer, keeping his distance still but wanting to steal a closer look. As the male begins to partially undress he leans against a tree, and with a tilt of his head shamelessly looks over the figure to see what all he could get a look at in the dim lighting.

A moment passes and a vague urge makes a finger twitch, a hand drifting to his pants pocket where a lighter and pack of cigarettes sit in waiting. He waits a bit longer, continuing to watch Snowy rifle through the duffel bag before indulging himself. The pack of cigarettes is opened but barely touched, only two or three missing before he pulls out one of the sticks and lighting it. He takes a deep drag, almost lazily as he never once takes his eyes of the man. Only once he’s got a second breath of the cigarette in does he finally announce his presence.

“Well, while I can’t say I’m not a little disappointed about the night’s events, I also can’t say I’m not intrigued. It’s not often a man’s bounty gets killed before he can get to it.” He says, more calm than what should be considered rational given the way he’d watched Snowy stage a literal bloody scene. “Guess I should’ve just be faster, hm? That’s what some would say at least.”

 

[AparinaAkumu]

By the time the words broke Snowy had paused his movements. The sound of a lighter being flicked was recognizable albeit quiet. It made him wait to hear or smell something to determine if it was rogue hikers having a fun night or something more serious. As he smelled the cigarette smoke and heard the voice behind him, he couldn't help but smile a little. So, he had stepped on some toes huh? That never ends well.

Snowy stood with a clean shirt in his hands and turned to face the sound partially. It's not good to leave your back turned and frankly he wanted to see what he was up against. Though his features remained a mix of amused and confident as he eyed his competition.

"That's a bad habit, you should switch to something lighter," he commented first as he looked over the man. Similar build but from the way he dressed he definitely appeared a tad wider. From the quiet and the mention of career it was safe to assume more muscle. As it was, at this angle anyway, Es'kit would be able to see the very slim build of the man who effortlessly caused such damage. He looked healthy yet incredibly skinny. An odd and very unnatural mix.

"I hate standoffs, usually I'm just in and out of a job. So what is it you want," he offered with a sigh as he pulled on the new shirt. Even as his fingers buttoned up the piece his eyes didn't leave the potential threat not far from himself.

"I can't just hand over cash, but I'd hate to make an enemy over a business transaction," he confessed as he left the last couple buttons undone in order to situate his pocket watch. Best case scenario the man hadn't seen everything. Worst he had and was stronger than what the albino could do with his artifact. He didn't want to make any sudden moves in case he needed to get out of there fast.

 

[LukeDeadwood]

The notion of bartering or bribing had Es’kit smirking in amusement. While he was just a tad miffed about the loss of the target, did that really justify a fight? Although he supposed others would be far less kind about it. Just another brutish moron they’d be then if they really tried to duke it out with a hitman. He shakes his head at the thought as he takes another puff.

“Well I suppose I am a little upset over the loss of the cash. I did have some plans after all.” He takes another puff, cooly gazing at the man. A little smaller than himself though it wasn’t by much. But it was still clear he didn’t look overly natural. But Es’kit was hardly picky about how a body looked. All he really cared about was that they were clean and breathing.

“Anyone else I was going to grab tonight would’ve just been bonuses. If I’m being honest though, their bodies were what I was most interested in, not the prices on their heads. Though I suppose there’s a better one in front of me now, so that makes up for it.”

Es’kit makes no sign that he knows how odd and potentially just creepy that sounds. Especially with the way he’s shamelessly eyeing Snowy as he takes to dressing. Not that he actually cared how the man took his statement. “But as it stands, I don’t want anything. Not yet anyway.” He tilts his head back, falling silent for a moment as he takes a longer drag from the cigarette, exhaling a steady stream of smoke before regarding the albino once more.

“I just wanted to meet the…new competition. It’s hardly fair if I know you and you don’t know me, wouldn’t you say?” Without looking away he takes the cigarette and snubs it out on the tree he’s leaning on, flicking the ashes away before pocketing the butt. “Name’s Es’kit. Designated world-wide bounty Hunter. It’s Snowy, right? Charmed.”

It feels all too like a game when he freely gives his name. He wasn’t worried. Any information that could be found on him is fake and was planted there by himself. And those that knew were either too traumatized to say anything or were labeled as crazy due to the outlandish details.

 

[AparinaAkumu]

The man listened closely but didn't make any moves from his stance. Shirt buttoned mostly, resting more on one leg than the other, with his arms at his sides at rest. Just standing there comfortably. Even as the strange words caught his attention.

Their bodies? Supposing he's not just a morbid human...he didn't keep that line of thought long. Too many possibilities and none of them really good. Especially alone in the dark with potentially a true demon.

He also didn't have time to make a proper response to such a comment, if there was one anyway. The man continued to speak and easily introduced himself. Probably an alias, certainly? It was an odd sounding name. Yet the albino man visibly recoiled at the name as it left Es'kit's lips.

"No, just what he decided to call me," he sighed as he turned away from the man. It was brief, just long enough to pick up the rock and shirt bundle and toss it into the water. A small display of strength with how effortlessly he threw it. However, the shadows had taken over his arm under his shirt in the process. A keen eye would catch the detail on his hands but only if it was quick enough to manage a glimpse before it fell away. Once again revealing pale fingers.

"I prefer Katachi. Suits me a little better," he offered as he looked at the man again. Friendly competition? That didn't seem likely in this sort of work. Even so, Katachi checked his watch and pulled his jacket back on.

"If that's all, I'd like to catch a meal before bed," he offered a peaceful parting of ways. Still he half expected a brawl.

 

[LukeDeadwood]

Stifling a laugh at the way the man recoiled at the use of the alias Es’kit casually reached up to the collar of his coat; using the feint excuse of fiddling with the buckle to hide his grin. Well, now he had some “ammo” so to say. He could easily tease. For the time being he decided to keep it casual.

While he missed the brief detail of the shadows covering the albino’s hand, he did have his suspicions. He had a little feeling that it wasn’t super strength and had more connections to the shadow form Katachi had taken earlier. It was just speculation for the time being. Time would give him all of his answers.

“Well then, Katachi-” he was right, it did sound better than Snowy. Felt better coming out of his mouth. But it didn’t change Es’kit’s mind about any potential teasing in the future to come. “-If you’re all caught up, I suppose I should go on my own way, hm? I do still have to circle back to the campsite, scope out who’s left before I lose my chance…”

Es’kit tilts his head slightly as he trails off, vaguely thinking of all the different faces he’d seen during his time of watching the group from afar. Some of them had been quite nice. What were the chances he’d be able to nab one of them? He’d just have a see.

With a low chuckle Es’kit pushes himself off the tree. He turns, unafraid to show his back as he throws a wave over his shoulder. “Maybe I’ll see you again, maybe I won’t. Till then, try to watch your tail a bit better, yeah?” Chuckling again he disappears into behind the brush.

He waits until he’s sure he’s far enough away from the lake clearing before he removes his jacket once more, rolling his shoulders as his spider legs are once more revealed. With a silent leap he’s takes to the trees again, thoughts drifting as he hurries back to the scene of the crime. He was going to have fun tracking this new encounter.

 

[AparinaAkumu]

Katachi remained quiet, not bothering to answer as the man finally left. Once out of sight he would allow the shadows to cover his ears again. They even took a few forms before returning his white hair to its natural state. Now that he felt rather certain he was alone, he started off again.

The trail that led out of the woods ended in a small parking lot behind a gas station. At the right angle in the daylight you could see the edge of the lake barely visible from the top of the path. Down the road was a few cabins people could rent, and a main building and motel across the road.

Entering the gas station, the female manager gave a tired look before a pretty smile covered her face. "Hey hon. Couldn't sleep again?" She asked as the white haired man wordlessly stepped to the deli counter and picked up one of the warm aluminum wrapped sandwiches. Another nod would be his initial response before he looked for the bottled tea he liked from the fridge.

"Yeah, decided to go for a short hike. I'll have to visit in the daytime to go swimming though," he offered discussion for the woman. She was sweet and had made his stay in the cabins tolerable. Though he felt no remorse for lying to her. Just because he got paid to kill doesn't mean he wanted innocent people hurt. The less she knew, the better.

 

[LukeDeadwood]

Es’kit is back at the campsite in what feels like no time at all. In the time it took him to follow Katachi and have his little introduction, the situation seemed to be a mix between settled and hectic still. A small handful of the men from the organization seemed to be gathered around the destroyed tent. Examining the scene and potentially even trying to pick up traces of tracks belonging to the beast they were never going to find.

The rest of the organization seemed to be scrambling to start packing. Any other regular camper that had yet to leave undoubtedly would’ve called the cops in response to the startling disturbance. It would make sense the majority would want to clear out before that happened. The less risk the better. But it also meant Es’kit would have to act quick.

He treads carefully as he starts to circle around. Stealing someone at the edges of the bustling crowd was the safer bet. ‘Careful…’ he silently reminds himself as he hunkers down on a lower branch, eyes darting back and forth between the various figures. Tall. Short. Lanky. Beefy. Tan. Pale. So many to choose from in such a short amount of time.

He eventually settles on a darker haired male — a brunette — that steps out behind an RV. The call of nicotine to divert to subtle yet otherwise apparent anxiety to leave that was given away by the impatient bounce of his heel. ‘He will do.’

Es’kit drops from the tree, as close as he can get to the figure without leaving the cover of the bushes. Intentionally making noise to draw the man’s attention. The oblivious prey whips his head around, dropping the lit stick to reach for a hidden gun. The assumption that it was the blood-thirsty still hanging around.

Es’kit waits. ‘Closer…’ His Hunter instincts begin to kick in. His spinneret behind creating a near invisible ball of thread as he drags his tongue across his fangs, already preparing to bite. ‘Closer…and now!’ Just before the man can either enter the bushes or lose interest Es’kit leaps forward.

Faster than the target can blink he uses the thread to pull the gun from the man’s hand before a shot can ring out. And before he can shout Es’kit clamps a hand over his mouth, behind him in an instant while forcing an arm behind their back, subduing them as he forces their head to the side. In an instant he bites down on the man’s neck, fangs puncturing the skin to pump the paralytic venom into his fangs.

It takes mere seconds for the man’s body to involuntarily stiffen. As Es’kit’s pulls the paralyzed body back into the bushes he pauses just enough to retrieve the fallen gun before his spider legs get to work on cocooning the poor man. “Sorry,” he begins to say, though lacks the genuine remorse. “But you’re gonna have to take the place of your fallen friend. Don’t worry though. I’ll make sure you’ll have more than enough fun.”

 

[AparinaAkumu]

Katachi was able to exchange some pleasantries with the gas station manager before he walked down the road. Already a few cop cars whizzed by, and one stopped and had him stop to be questioned. He responded with perfectly faked expressions, tone, and body language. As if he really did just take a walk to the lake and back for the sandwich. Luckily he was escorted to his cabin and told not to go very far before they left him. However he sighed and set his pack down on the bed with annoyance. Someone had seen him. He'd have to find new accommodations.

He spent the hours of remaining darkness looking at area maps he had collected from the nearby towns and counties, crossing them with the bus route schedules and finding a place on the other side of town where he could transfer enough busses to safely hide his trail. He also never knew if that bounty hunter was gonna look for him, or had seen him come back to the cabin anyway. Better safe than sorry. He caught the first bus into town with his belongings.

By early afternoon he had circled the area twice, going so far on one trip to see the county line a town over and then back. Finally he stepped off his last bus, checking his watch. While riding these busses he had his hair covered by the dark veil of his shadow. It kept a very natural coloration and no hint of being irregular to the naked eye. Anyone who did think it looked just a bit strange wouldn't have enough time to get a second look anyway as he walked down the street. His watch told him the time, and was used to focus on his thoughts. An internal dialog that he could never truly remember or express. Just thinking.

He snapped back to the world around him as he looked up at the sign on the hotel. It was nicer than he liked, more modern, plus a bit pricey. However he had cash and stepped inside to rent the room with a fake ID. One showing him with his black hair. The name attached to it, Anthony, would be difficult to tie back to him.

Feeling secure in his new location, he was about to settle in when the radio made that infernal sound again. Crap, he thought, I forgot about the kid. So with a sigh he answered it with the signal and listened closely to the reaction.

"Dude, seriously. Meeting tonight? C'mon its an easy job and they're paying way too much for it. Just a quick cash grab!" The mix of nervousness and urgency told the albino that this kid had outlived his usefulness. If he wasn't a captive, he certainly was annoying. Still if he could make a deal and kill this kid in the same night it would be more convenient.

"Sure," he calmly responded as he checked the time, "eleven-thirty at the corner of South and Wessen. I'll approach you." He then changed the signal on his radio to disconnect it and sighed softly. A call to the hotel reception had a wake up call set for eleven. Who would expect a professional murderer to set up a meeting a block over? It was bold, and usually a rookie mistake. But he knew better. Until then, he finally got undressed and into bed for some sleep.

 

[LukeDeadwood]

Before long the brunet’s body is wrapped up snug in tight in the cocoon. Only his face is excluded so he can breathe; thanks to the paralysis Es’kit isn’t worried about the man shouting. It’s hard to shout loudly when one’s jaw couldn’t move. Hauling the body over his shoulder Es’kit merges back with the darkness. He circles back around the open area, hearing the faint sirens in the distance.

“Time to go…” he mutters to himself, straying far from the designated path that leads back to the basic parking lot. A rustic truck is hidden, tucked well away behind a series of trees and brush. The dark green coat enables it to blend in exceptionally well in the darkness. He makes his way to the back and opens the door to the bed. His extra appendages makes opening the cover and rolling the cocoon onto the cushy padding a breeze. He shuts the door, his spider features recede, then he’s climbing into the driver’s seat, waiting just long enough to be certain he won’t be seen before starting the vehicle.

The next hour and a half or so is spent not only to town, but well into the countryside on the other side of it as well. Deep in on the old paths marked ‘Private Property’, territory practically invisible to the human eye lies Es’kit home. A wooden house resembling that of a ranch looks nice and quaint on the outside, but holding special secrets within the series of caves underneath.

He parks around the side and shuts the engine off, hopping out and making his way back to the bed. The muffled, slurred curses are a sign the paralytic is wearing off. Es’kit doesn’t mind. He likes them feisty at the start. Because his second venom always mames them melt.

With a cheery whistle he’s once again hauling the cocoon on his shoulder as he walks around to the back of the house where a set of double doors leading into the “basement” wait. It’s even darker inside as he makes his way down the steps and let’s the doors fall shut behind him. The light switch is down at the bottom and when flicked on reveals a rather lavish, open room, surprisingly livable for a basement and looking more like it should a living room.

Es’kit ignores it and turns to the left. The hallway has multiple doors on both sides, but they’re left untouched as he takes another left turn around a corner and heads to the room at the far end. This time he leaves the room dark as he shuts and locks the door behind him. When he drops the cocoon down and tears it open, he’s expecting the sluggish resistance his captive gives. Es’kit plays around. Letting the man think he’s got a chance. Then, just like before, he puts the man in a hold and bites down on his neck, using his secondary venom. All it takes is the gasp and Es’kit knows he’s got him.

Noon rolls around and Es’kit is back in his truck. Feeling satisfied like a hungry man after a meal he whistles, tapping his fingers against the steering wheel as he rolls back into town. Briefly he stops at a local gas station for two cups of coffee before he’s on his way again, pulling up to the police department. The bustling conversations and people going back and forth is everything he’s used to by now. But he ignores the cops and detectives as he beelines for a desk located further in the back of the station.

The desk he stops at is littered with a mess, resembling the older male sitting at it just a little too much. Es’kit sets one of the cups of coffee down, setting it next to the other three already occupying the space. Without even a ‘good morning’ he’s plopping down in the empty seat in front of the desk, disregarding the scattered mess of paperwork as he props his feet up on the surface.

For a moment his eyes drift across the planning board that is, quite possibly, an even bigger mess than the desk. There’s all sort of reports and pictures pinned to it, little red threads connecting things that would seem inconsequential to those who didn’t pay close attention. Blinking he swears he catches the familiar sight of the new face he’d bumped into just last night, but decides to pocket it just for the time being.

Throwing his head back he takes a generous gulp of his own coffee before sending a mischievous grin in the detective’s direction. “Afternoon Reid. Fun night?” The addressed man can only sigh miserably, tired and all too used to the bounty hunter’s antics.

 

[AparinaAkumu]

Among the commotion at the station is a particularly loud boy. He doesn't look like much, clearly isn't into anything heavy. Sitting in one of the offices and eating a sandwich. One of the other detectives stepped over to Reid's desk, with little more than a nod at the familiar bounty hunter, and handed the disheveled man a folder. The front once he opened it had a sketch of the white haired man they were looking for, with some rough estimated intell, and the mug shot of the red haired young man in the other room.

"Charles Jameson" was the name on the mug shot, but everything the boy signed said 'Red' and he scribbled out his last name a lot. But age wise he was old enough to drink, and the list of his petty crimes mostly included drunk and disorderly. A few medical reports were included in the file and recently were mostly broken hand bones, ribs and nose. However he had a second medical history report from the hospital included with a pretty nasty upbringing. On paper he seemed like he'd be a tough hardened criminal but the young man eating the convenient deli sandwich like it was the best food he's ever had wasn't really trying to cause waves.

"The DA is on his way now with his immunity papers. We got a radio confirmation and address to meet for your guy," the other detective informed Reid.

 

[LukeDeadwood]

With a curious tilt of his head Es’kit watches the interaction between the two detectives, not bothering with greeting the second one. He’s silent just long enough for Reid to give a response. “Good. I’m stretched thin enough as it is. The sooner we get this over with, the better.”

That sounded like the detective he knew. Good ol’ Reid always piling on case after case. More than what everyone else considered healthy. But it was also well known throughout the station and even other branches from other cities that Reid was a bonafide genius, connecting dots that otherwise seemed invisible. From extreme cases to those that had long since been cold, he was the man to count on.

“Oh? What have you been up to?” Much to the Reid’s internal relief Es’kit picks his feet off the desk so he can sit upright. The detective brushes away stray specks of dirt as he leans forward, turning the file around so he can look at it. Out of all of Es’kit’s talents, reading upside down was not one of them. He has to bite his tongue to keep from smirking as his eyes landed on the face he’d met recently, actively reminding himself to play dumb. It’d be a pain if he told anyone he’d ran into the albino the sketch was depicting. “What’s this one all about?” He asks as he looked between the different photos and the notes, glancing up at Reid with a catlike curiosity.

Reid looks at him, the minutest traces of suspicion in his tired gaze. Although the full details remained unknown to the rest of the station, there was definitely history between the two. “…assassin. Only started looking into him just recently. But from what I’ve gathered, he’s professional in making the deaths look like accidents or natural occurrences. It’s executed well enough even I’ve struggled finding connections with older cases.”

Es’kit feels compelled to ask if Reid though it was connected to last night’s “incident” he just so “happened to hear about while passing through the gas station”. He decides against it from the lack of notes mentioning details of the woods and let’s Reid continue. “The redhead kid is in the other room. He’s the only solid lead I’ve got. We’ve worked a deal with him in exchange for catching our guy.”

“Interesting…” is the only thing Es’kit has to offer. He blatantly ignores Reid’s stare in favor of switching his gaze between Katachi’s sketch and the mugshot of the “Red” character. Gears start to turn in his head the longer he stares and Reid sighs, a question being asked in a tired, yet knowing tone that if the question wasn’t asked the bounty hunter would try his patience extremely so: “Do you want to tag along?”

 

[AparinaAkumu]

It isn't long after the exchange that a couple officers rushed from various desks to assist as a crash was heard in the office housing the redhead. The boy had finished eating and was being restrained with one man holding his chest and arms and the detective who had dropped off the file was protecting the DA that had just delivered the papers to be signed. As he escorted the older man out the muffled yelling got released into the main room briefly. Something about getting him killed.

With a sigh the detective and DA spoke softly together as the chief came over to check on things.

"Didn't anyone tell him before that he would need to meet him? We never even discussed sending an officer as no one in the precinct even remotely matches the boy," the DA was laying into the two in a professionally polite way. The chief simply trying to reassure him it was brought up, but the detective admitted it hadn't been.

"If we told him that then the kid wouldn't have made the call," he admitted. The chief was visibly annoyed and the men went silent before the chief looked at the detective.

"We are going to have a unit nearby, I'll see if I can't reach out to the next precinct and ask for their lead officer. He's ex marine, sniper. Tell the kid he'll be under full surveillance and put an ankle bracelet on if it'll calm him down," the chief was about to step away again when one of the other detectives waved him over to a desk and held out a file.

"For crying...Reid! We think it's another one," the gruff man growled as he went back to his own office. The detective who found the recent file handed it off to Reid while the DA and first detective returned to the room to dismiss the additional officers and try to calm their witness.

The new file was from the police response this morning. Pictures of the crime scene showed that Katachi had succeeded in attracting wild animals as well. The remains had been tampered with, most of the fish the men had caught were half eaten or missing, and the place was a right disaster. It wasn't long before an evidence box was additionally provided, with pieces of a shattered radio and remnants of the fireworks bundle covered in ash. No fingerprints, no murder weapon, and the body had various types of blood on it which while a second human type did come up there was too much animal and victim blood to be salvaged for DNA or typing.

 

[LukeDeadwood]

Whereas the detective’s question got only a response in the form of a smirk, the sudden crash and following event had fully succeeded in pulling Es’kit’s attention from the file. He finally got to see the redhead with his own eyes, a faint “oh” leaving his lips. He truly hadn’t seen the male when he’d entered station. When Reid had told him “in the other room” he had really meant it.

He promptly begins to stares at the young and watches the policemen attempt to calm the rightfully due panic attack. After having seen Katachi’s work he could understand why certain would fear for their lives. Their life would be taken in the blink of an eye. And clearly the witness didn’t want his short life to end so abruptly. And knowing what he knew, he wouldn’t feel safe either. After all, what could mere humans do against the supernatural being they didn’t even know was supernatural? A big fat nothing.

For a moment there’s a pang of sympathy. Es’kit remembers well how weak and afraid he’d been once. A long time ago. But soon enough it’s swept away as an idea slowly begins to take shape in his head. ‘They could work…’ He thinks to himself. He can feel Reid’s stare on him again. Just from listening he’s well aware that the details of last night’s murder are now reaching Reid. And if the victim’s identity was found out, then the detective knows that Es’kit knows something. After all, Reid’s the only who knows when he’s takes up a hunt and who it is. But because of the current company around them he knew Reid wouldn’t call him out. Otherwise his ethics would end up being questioned as well, and the detective was overwhelmed enough already.

That reason is what makes Es’kit finally face the detective, a broad grin to balance out the tired scowl the man was giving him. “I hate you so much” was exactly what the expression read and he was like a spoiled child going unpunished as he began to dig through the new file. While he got to witness the act first hand, he was curious as to what all evidence the detectives had scrounged up during their late-night and early-morning investigations. He whistles as he reads the details. They’re what he thought they would be, but it doesn’t make it any less impressive. Katachi knew what he was doing. And he liked that.

“You know…” Es’kit begins as he thumbs at one of the papers in the file, briefly glancing up at Reid. He can see the man visibly bracing himself for whatever idea he’s about to throw out there. “I wasn’t always a bounty hunter. I still know plenty of things from my days as a merc. Fighting rings, exterminating rabid animals, body-guarding…” He’s smug as he shuts the hard enough that it makes a low ‘fwap’ and drops it down on the desk. “An ex marine is cool and all, but don’t you think I might be a bit more…equipped? I mean, don’t you think the kid having a more personalized guard around might make him a bit more relaxed?”

Reid had already extended the offer for him to tag along on the case, and usually that was enough. But he was being extra pushy this time and getting more involved like he was insinuating was a risky business. Reid knew that. But he also knew he was in a bit of a corner. Damn did he really hate Es’kit.

 

[AparinaAkumu]

It didn't take long for the DA and detective to get the boy seated and signing his papers. Pretty much an option for conspiracy or walk free was an offer he couldn't refuse. Especially as the detective and DA tried their best to convince him he would be fine.

The light brown hair of the detective was still shedding from his recent buzz cut as he rubbed the back of his head. The DA went into the chief's office to discuss arrangements and the detective returned to his desk in time to hear the bounty hunter's offer. He stayed quiet a moment but did look over at Es'kit, finally leaning back in his own chair and looking directly at the man.

"What's in it for you? Aren't bounty hunters pretty monetary beings?" His voice didn't hide the smirk on his face or the slight snicker. If anything it was more apparent from the mid-range tones of the younger detective's voice. Brown eyes even had a hint of a smile in them.

Often the younger guys, detectives and regular officers, picked on Reid and the strange bounty hunter they'd taken to calling Kitten behind his back--since they often compared his catch to bringing in mice. But none of them could really confront the man with how traumatized the catches seemed when they got brought in. Many of them wouldn't even talk for a while, or came off sounding like they'd lost their mind.

 

[LukeDeadwood]

Es’kit didn’t budge even the slightest when he heard the detective’s comment. If the man really knew, he was bound to take off running for the hills. The bounty hunter’s motives generally weren’t for the light of heart. Or rather, those with high moral standards, he supposed was a better way of putting.

After what seemed like forever the silent stand-off between Reid and Es’kit came to an end as the former sighed, taking his seat. A sign of defeat. Es’kit would’ve just shown up either way even if he’d been told ‘no’. With a broad grin Es’kit finally turned to regard the other man, tilting his head with an expression that was easily compared to a child getting caught with their hand in the cookie jar and getting away with it.

“Well, why don’t you ask my other catches? I’m sure they’ve told you plenty.” He snickered, knowing full well nobody actually believed all those men about his…exploits. It was nothing more than an inside joke at this point. “Who knows? Maybe I’m just curious.” Taking a more serious tone, he glances back to Reid. “Maybe I wanna see the infamous assassin for myself. Maybe I wanna make sure the guy who killed my catch gets what’s due.”

It was bullshit, that last excuse. For the most part anyway. But it was a more than logical response, given how he’d read the report of that morning’s case just minutes prior to now. An easy explanation plus proof, presenting itself just like that. Like child’s play. Es’kit couldn’t ask for the puzzle pieces to come together any more easily.

Reid snorts, not believing the words that came out of Es’kit’s mouth. But he plays along anyway for the hunter’s sake. “Thought the victim’s name from this morning was familiar…” he mutters, finally reaching for the coffee that had been brought to him. It was lukewarm by now, but nevertheless he still drinks it like it’s his only lifeline.

 

[AparinaAkumu]

The detective couldn't lie, Es'kit got results. The people he's brought in claim all sorts of nightmarish things if they say anything about the encounter. He had read one statement where the criminal captured claimed the bounty hunter had some spider-like creatures that lived in his cellar. It had become a bit of a joke, a few of the officers asking the bounty hunter if that's why he sounded like such a family man.

Though the event was written off as drug induced and no one said another word. Without the tox screen coming up with anything, they really couldn't blame Es'kit for the trauma or try to go after him for anything. Even the DA just believes he uses whatever good date rape drug is floating around to help his catches. Common technique, easy access and admittedly efficient. His exact words had been, "who knows what those get laced with anymore" and that had been the end of the topic around the precinct.

"He got a meeting for us at eleven-thirty pm, address is in the file. The chief will still have the sniper there if he can but I'd leave that for the better," the detective sipped his own drink at his nearby desk and filled out some reports as he spoke. Barely glancing back at the bounty hunter.

"Besides," he said after a moment to finish a page, "best to tell the chief you're tagging along as we prepare to leave. Otherwise he'll be a bit upset." The detective did pause a moment before glancing to the red head in the other room. He looked like he was ill and possibly about to be sick. So he glanced back to Es'kit and nodded his head towards the young man.

"You wanna talk to the kid? He's met the guy in person a couple times. Maybe he'll feel better not talking to someone with a badge."

 

[LukeDeadwood]

As the other detective speaks Es’kit let’s his gaze shift away to the kid in the other room. He’s only half-way listening, merely nodding along with the important parts and perking up at the offer to speak to the kid in person. With a smirk he looks towards Reid yet jokingly regards the other man. “Ah, you sure that’s a good idea? Might just traumatize him too.”

He laughs while Reid scoffs and rolls his eyes, muttering lowly to himself about how there’s just not enough coffee in the world to help him deal with the bounty hunter. “I’ll pass the word on to the chief on my way to get another cup. Just…behave.”

Raising his hands in mock surrender Es’kit feigns an innocent look as he watches Reid take a stand and turn away. “Scout’s honor, cross my heart…just don’t drop dead from a heart attack, yeah?” Reid doesn’t give a verbal response. Instead the middle finger is flashed over his shoulder and the hunter cackles at the sight, grinning ear to ear in mischievous glee.

Shaking his head at his own antics he gives the remaining detective a faint “see ya” before standing. He stretches his arms up as he makes his way to the room the kid was left alone in. Glancing around for the nearest clock he double checks the time, waiting briefly before knocking on the door to at least announce his incoming presence before walking in.

“Hey. Red, right?” He asks as he shuts the door behind him, recalling the scribbled signature he’d glanced at back in the file he flipped through. He takes a seat in the open chair, as unprofessional as they come as he throws his right leg over the arm and sits with a crooked slouch, arms crossed as he looks at the kid with a grin. “Name’s Es’kit. Heard you’ve got a whole exciting day planned today. I take it you’re not so thrilled about that, huh?”

 

[AparinaAkumu]

Red had barely moved when there was a knock at the door, much less as it opened. Though when Es'kit sat so comfortably and introduced himself Red seemed to relax just a bit. Though it was hard to tell if his face was so white because of his natural complexion or if he really did feel sick.

"What kind of name is that?" He asked after a moment. He really didn't want to talk about tonight. He had a very bad feeling about it and had seen first hand the aftermath of what Snowy did. He was the only person left who even called him that for starters.

"You don't look like a cop," he mentioned as well after a second. He didn't really know what the man looked like. Red supposed he didn't look too much like trouble though, he was skinny and not incredibly tall wearing a tee shirt under his open flannel and black jeans. Even with his black hoop earring he didn't look too menacing, and he wasn't. His moves were all roof running and evasive. He wasn't really a fighter.

 

[LukeDeadwood]

Es’kit snickered at Red’s initial response, gazing at him with amusement. “It’s my name. What kinda nickname is Red?” He countered with a smirk. “And you’re right. I don’t look like a cop cause I’m not a cop. Having a badge isn’t exactly my style, y’know. A few too many legalities there.” Although the temptation was there, he didn’t make the comment that he at least looked better than Red did.

With a slightly dramatic stretch Es’kit raises his arms and folds them behind his head, making use of them as a mock pillow. “To make it clear, I’m a bounty hunter. I hunt the bad guys in ways the cops can’t. And I can also hit them a lot more than the cops technically should. It’s a lot more fun in my opinion.”

He shamelessly grins at the admittance and looks Red over, fully taking in the young man’s appearance with a silent appreciation: the kid looked like a runner in place of a fighter; while Es’kit always enjoyed a good fight, he also loved a chase. Having the chance to tackle them down to wrestle them into a submission, or chasing them into a corner where a traps lay in wait… He does well to shove those thoughts into the far reaches of his mind. For the time being, anyway.

“So, kid, unless you plan on doing something extra stupid, you don’t have to worry about cuffs or anything like that. Unless you’re into that sorta stuff~.” He smirks with a wink before laughing, a sign he’s doing little more than simply teasing Red.

 

[AparinaAkumu]

The ginger tugged on his red hair in silent retort to Es'kit asking about his nickname. An easy one, he supposed, or a dumb one. But he liked it more than Charles or Charlie. He also hated Jameson as a last name, especially since he liked the drink and didn't want comments about it.

"Yeah. They have strict laws about everything anymore. I'm scared to take a pen from the bank," he joked. But at the mention of a bounty hunter he raised a brow. Es'kit outwardly didn't look too much stronger than him. Then again, Red was a little stronger than he looked. He just didn't have enough weight to show muscles off.

"I thought bounty hunters just made TV shows," he admitted with a shrug. The comment about the cuffs, though, got a strange look from the kid. Instead of repulsion or returned laughter, he was contemplative. Unknown to Es'kit this kid swung both ways and had tried a few things. But for his safety, he didn't bring it around. A lot of the people he had fallen in with were against that sort of thing. Most of his sorts of things.

So the kid just shrugged and looked through the window. He could still see part of the station and a few officers but not much. The way Es'kit talked was perfectly casual, but the ginger was used to the systems.

"So they sent you in here to babysit?" He asked bluntly.