The sequel (with notes) (Another note!)

The weather had taken a turn for the worse, but it was only trying to match my mood. I was getting soaked, but I was already in such a dark humor that it barely registered.
“I hate my life.” I said to myself as I stood there staring at the back door of the theater. I was getting paid, but that was hardly a consolation. The target was late and I was beginning to think they must have gone out the front door with the rest of the crowd. Cheerful couples and families watching a feel good children movie. Made me want to puke.
I continued to stare at the door and didn't bother to look down as a rat wandered past down the alley. It ignored me too. I must not smell as bad as the garbage littered around me. The smell was pretty awful and I was feeling a little nauseous because of it, but such is the life of a Shadow. A Shadow, I thought to myself. What a crock of shit. I had always believed Shadows were the coolest people. They went where the danger was and retrieved the un-retrieviable.
Only most never lived very long or quit once they found out the truth. The truth was the job sucked. Once in a while you might get lucky and some idiot would hire you for way too money to get an easy lift. I had my share of those, but not enough. No, most were like the crappy job I was on now. Tailing an ex to retrieve back a ring. Sounded easy enough when the man came to me, but his ex was now with Ongz and fucking with him was almost suicidal. And I had enough of suicide missions when I went to Wreaclast.
As much as I hated to, I smile remembering the mission. Until I remembered the concussions. I got my ass kicked to New Zealand and back again. And for what? Sure I had the fifty large Whale had paid me to take the job, but I never came back with the jar, so instead of paying for my expenses, he and Fire Kid did a tap dance on my face. It took most of the money left to get released from the hospital. I wish I could blow it off as business as usual, but now I knew that it was stupidity unleashed on the world and I was not immune. I could see clearer now, but mostly in hindsight and a fat lot a good that did.
I looked down at my watch, but rain had gotten under the glass and the second hand was not moving. “Just fucking great! Can this day get any worse?” I shouted to the sky as it pelted me with increasing larger drops. Another heavy sigh and I checked the alley again. Nothing had changed except the bum down the way had moved on.
Oh shit! The bum was gone and I never noticed! This was not good. I was having another hindsight moment and turned to leave and save my sorry ass! This time I would happily refund the asshole's money. The prick didn't deserve a woman as fine as Bunnu anyway. But it was too late.
“Going somewhere Moon?” It was Whale again and he had his gun pointed at my stomach.
“Home Epsilon, I just want to go home.” I said, but I had no conviction in my voice. He smiled and shook his head no.
“I'd ask you to come along nicely, but where's the fun in that? He smiled. I was happy to see he was still missing a tooth from when the agents from GGG paid him a visit. “Oh, and there's someone else that wants to say hi.” I tried to turn around, but got sucker punched instead. I fell hard to the filthy ground and looked up to see Fire Kid sneering down at me.
“Consider yourself lucky Moon.” He snarled, “Mr. L. wants to see you or you would be dead already!” He made a finger gun and pretended to shoot me with it. I just sat there looking up at the two of them. Normally I would have said something stupid and gotten hit again or worse, but I had one of the those rare moments of clarity and just struggled to get up. Not that it mattered. Fire Kid hit me again in the stomach and Whale kept me from falling so the Kid could do it again.
“Finished?” I gasped and the Kid smiled and started to throw another punch, but Whale stopped him.
“Mr. L. wants to see him alive Kid.” He said and the kid lowered his fist.
“Thanks Epsilon.” I managed to squeak out between gasps.
“Awww, you don't need to thank me Moon.” He said cheerfully right before he tased me. “It was my pleasure.”

When I came to, I found myself sitting in a plush recliner. I blinked several times and wiped the drool from my chin while getting my bearings back. As conscientiousness returned fully, I took in the room. It was a nicely decorated place. The curtains went perfectly with the design on the very tasteful furniture. I only wished Daemon could see this place. His tastes were more than a little suspect.
In the center of a the room was a coffee table and on it, with a coaster under it of course, was a glass of something that looked temptingly like alcohol. I looked around some more, but I was alone. So I sat up and reached for the glass. One sniff I and I knew it was a Scotch. I sighed heavily and put it back. Can't stand the stuff. Reminds me of sheep's piss.
As I sat back into the chair to contemplate where I was I heard a door open behind me.
“Mr. Moon. Or should I say Yu?” It was Lachdanan. I should have guessed. Lachdanan was renown for his expensive tastes in everything including women.
“Yu is just for tax purposes.” I replied. It was my standard answer to the question.
“No it's not.” He answered. I squinted my eyes as I looked him over better. He was fit with what was probably a five hundred dollar haircut. He was being very smug, but then again, he seemed to have reason to be. He continued, “I deal in information Moon, and you have quite a background don't you?” It was a rhetorical question and I knew better than to interrupt. But that never stopped me before and this time was no different.
“Don't believe everything they tell you Lachdanan.” I shot back, “I may have a past, but it is neither interesting or any of your business.” He smiled a thin smile of contempt and just looked at me.
“Insulting my intelligence will not get you very far MoonYu.” He said with the right inflection and that drove the point home. Everyone assumed it was Moon then Yu, but really was Mo then Onyu, the ancient deity of double entendre. My parents thought they had a sense of humor when they named me and I still hated them for it! Bob and Becky Johnson, but they named me for a long forgotten God no one else ever had heard of! But he had made his point and I knew I was bested for now.
“What do you want Lachdanan?” I asked.
“Yes, that is the only important question isn't?” He was arrogant to the point of forcing myself not to try and punch in him the face. “I assume you heard about Hardlicker? He said and raised one eyebrow. I hate when people do that. Mostly because I never could.
“Sorry Lachdanan, I was out of the country recently and haven't bothered to catch up.” It was a mental slap to his face and he reacted to it as I thought he would. Lack of interest was like a fist to the groin to his type. But he recovered quickly.
“And that is why you are still a beggar and I am a prince.” He said. His smile was even worse than before. I had to resist with all my might to slug him. “Had you cared to be the least bit informed, you might know that Hardlicker has been sighted again.” That got my attention alright! Hardlicker and I had unfinished business and I swore I would make him pay if it took me till the end of time! But I needed to play it cool now.
“And that interests you why?” I asked. I was pretty sure he would already knew about why I wanted to find Hardlicker, but I wasn't going to give him one for free if I could avoid it.
“ Hardlicker has something of mine and you are going to get it back.” He stated. It was delivered with self confidence that was grating to hear.
“You know the deal.” I said, “My fee is not negotiable, plus expenses.” It was a bluff. I would happily chase Hardlicker to the gates of Hell for free so I could throw him through it personally. He threw a wad of cash at me. I just wish I hadn't bungled the catch. I must have looked pretty pathetic juggling the wad several times before it hit the ground and exploded into a mess on the floor.
“You know you make me think that there actually may not be any gravity.” He said and gave me another one of those looks that I hated. But again I could not help myself and asked why.
“Because you suck so much, there is no need for it.” He answered and flashed miserable grin of his. I finished picking up the cash and put in my pocket before responding.
“What's wrong with your nose?” I asked and he looked at me funny not understanding. I smiled and jabbed him with a left that caught his nose square. “It's broken.” I said as I answered my own question. I laughed as I headed for the door, but stopped and turned around.
“Ah, what am I looking for?” I truly felt stupid now, but he did hire me. He was holding his nose with one hand, but managed to flip a folder at me, all the while glaring.
I opened the folder and there in front of me was a picture of an ball. It looked unusual to say the least. I looked at Lachdanan with the question clearly on my face.
“It's the Exalted Orb.” He said. His voice made me laugh. Holding his nose made him sound like a bad duck impression. His eye's were burning through me, but I couldn't stop laughing.
“Right! I said wiping the tears from my eyes, “Be back shortly.” I turned my back on him and opened the door. When am I going to learn. Fire Kid punched me in the face and as I fell back onto my ass, then Whale tased me again!

I awoke in my office to the phone ringing. I opened the bottom drawer of my desk and pulled out the cold pack and cracked it to get it chilling. I keep a supply handy as I often need them. Next I opened the filing cabinet and grabbed the bottle inside it. I looked at the label and winced. Southern Comfort! I don't remember ever buying this, but it would have to do. I took the cap off and took a pull off of it and stared at the phone. It was still ringing.
“What?” I asked when I answered it.
“Took you long enough Moon.” Came Daemon's voice on the other end. I hated myself for doing it, but I smiled. Alex was one of the few people in the world I didn't automatically think was trying to fuck me over. I sure he would if it came down to it, but I would probably deserve it.
“Herbert, this is not a good time.” I said knowing he hated that joke.
“Time to give that one a rest Moon.” He said and I could hear the pain in his voice. I snickered under my breath, but even that hurt. I felt around my body and found that I had been worked over plenty while out. “Anyway the reason I'm calling is that Hardlicker called me asking for you.”
“That was fast, Lachdanan just hired me to find him.” I said as I dug through the other drawers looking for my aspirin. I found the bottle and grimaced. Only one left. Who the fuck leaves one aspirin in a bottle? I thought to myself and grimaced again because it had been me.
“I think he already knew that. Anyway he wants to meet you.” He said.
“Only to kill me Alex, only to kill me.” I said.
“Still on about that?” he chided me, “Very unprofessional.”
“That's my style and it has worked for me so far.” I lied. I knew he wasn't buying it, but once a smart ass, always a smart ass. I could hear him saying something, but I had put the phone down so I could get the top off of the aspirin. I took the one pill and washed it down with another pull from the bottle. I looked again at the label and wondered what the hell I was thinking when I bought it? It was too something. I couldn't quite figure out what I disliked about it. I picked the phone up and he was still talking so I put it back down and went to the bathroom. When I came back there was silence on the other end.
“Alex?” I said cautiously. There was no response. I was about to hang up, but I heard a flush on the other end. Fucker! I hate how he always wins these little contests! I almost put the phone down again, but I needed to hear what he had to say about Hardlicker. I heard him pick the phone back up and the bastard started right in the middle of the sentence where he had left off!
“...Tomorrow night at Wittgenstein's place on the waterfront. And Moon, try dressing up. Its a classy place.” then he hung up. I fell into my chair steaming. I had several good comebacks ready and his hanging up prevent me from using them! I know he planned it that way, but I still let it get to me. I had my personal reasons for wanting to find Hardlicker, but I also wanted to get paid this time. Lachdanan retainer would barely cover getting my suit out of the dry cleaners and cab fair to Wittgenstein's place. I heard it was expensive, but I wasn't going to pick up the check tonight.
I went to my safe in the closet and turned the dial one to the left and opened it. It was a crappy safe, but I only kept my dry cleaning ticket in it. I walked down to Elynore's store and had to sit through another one of his lectures on how his place is not a closet and if I ever want to use his service again, it will be money first. I agreed and once I got my suit I said goodbye by flipping Elynore off. I left him standing there sputtering out curses.
It made me smile. Elynore really knew how to insult someone, but I never let it get me down. I would drop the suit off again after the dinner. It was my only good set of clothes and safer there than at my place. My place. The thought of it sent shivers down my spine. I resisted going there as much as possible. It wasn't a bad neighborhood or anything. It was that the place depressed me like no other. Mostly because Daemon had picked out the curtains. Hideous things made me queasy!
I looked up at my windows and saw a light on. I never leave a light on. Mostly because half of the time the electricity is shut off, but also to make sure anyone ransacking the place has to use up their batteries in their flashlight.

I entered my apartment and looked around. Someone had gone through my stuff again. It has gotten so bad that I don't bother to lock the door anymore. I went to the kitchen and opened the fridge, but they had taken my beer. I stood there contemplating suicide and murder at the same time. But I had to get ready for tonight. At Wittgenstein’s place I would be able to indulge in some fine micro brew and a nice thick steak. That cheered me up a little, but I never get my hopes too high. Life enjoys fucking with me and I have come to learn the signs of it coming. If I was right, this one was going to be huge.
I quickly showered mostly because I can only get three minutes of hot water. The others in this apartment house say theirs work fine, but mine never does. But I should be grateful for this place. My last hole burned down before I got back from Wreaclast and took everything I owned with it. It would have bothered me more, but really I was only out fifty bucks. Plus the Red Cross found me this new place. I tried to keep it clean by not staying long, but I did come back now and then.
I got dressed and looked in the mirror. I almost panicked as I didn't recognize my reflection at first. I really spent way too much time wearing that old trench coat! But I settled down and took a couple of deep breaths and realized my breath smelled like a troll's! I mentally slapped myself for forgetting that I was actually human and should behave like one once in a while. I didn't want to end up like Xpire. Poor bastard.
Finished I went outside to hail a cab. “Cronk!” I yelled with my hand up and the taxi came right over.
“Fuck you Moon!” Cronk said. “How did you know it would be me?”
“New mission, Daemon calling, has you written all over it.” I replied and he nodded just before jumping on the gas and throwing me back into my seat.
“Buckle up, don't want to get hurt too soon do you?” He sneered. I laughed and started to put on my seat belt, but thought better of it. I took the two ends and stuck them together behind me and gave them a tug. The belts both gave away!
“Really Cronk!” I exclaimed “I can't believe you tried that old trick!”
“Can't believe you almost fell for it!” He hooted and took the next corner hard enough to make the tires squeal and throw me across the cab. I grabbed a hold of the handle, but it broke off in my hand. I could see the edges had been cut.
“Been planning this long?” I asked politely.
“Since Singapore.” He smiled in the mirror. I laughed again. I had earned this one. I had tracked down Spoonman and Nightmare90 and hired them to throw Cronk off the Hitlon's roof into the pool! Only it turns out Cronk can't swim and he almost drowned! Hilarious!
“How did that go anyway?” I asked as he took another turn and I went sliding across the seats into the door. I was glad it didn't open.
“I asked them why me and they said they felt like they owed you! So I asked him why 90? And he said 'funny story' then they threw me off the roof. Great guys.” He said laughing himself. “Where you find them?”
“Eighteen thousand feet and we had the same conversation!” I yelled as I was thrown again across the seats.
“Oh that wonderful! Did you at least know how to swim?” He slammed on the brakes and I bounced off the partition. “And we're here. That will be twenty six dollars bitch.”

I got to the restaurant and tipped Cronk a fiver. He looked at me like I had given him a dead chipmunk.
“Look me up if I survive this one. I buy the first round at Moonlight33's.” And he smiled. “Then you can buy the rest.” I said as I walked away.
“Hey Moon!” He shouted and I turned around to see him flip me off as he drove off. That made me feel much better. At least some things don't change.
I got to the front door and the doorman opened it. “A pleasure to see you Mr. Moon.” He said and I nodded. I had never met him before, but he may have overheard Cronk. I looked at his name tag. It said Mark. I smiled, but something was up. I could feel it.
“Ah, Mr. Moon,” Said the Maitre d. “Your party in expecting you!” Again I had never seen this man before, but behind the bar was Bex and busing a table was Luca. GGG was here in force and I could only assume the Doorman and Maitre d were members too. I was escorted through the crowded restaurant to a table where Daemon was. Sitting with him was Vakirauta! This was unexpected to say the least! I thought Hardlicker was going to be here hoping I wouldn't make a scene, but I would have. Hell, I was planning on it.
“Thank you Chris.” Was all Vakirauta said as I was shown to my seat. The Maitre d didn't acknowledge it at all, but simply moved off, back to the front.
“I must say this is a pleasant surprise. I was under the impression that I was meeting someone else.” I shot a nasty look at Alex, but he was giggling behind his menu.
“This is important Moon.” Vikarauta said with a serious face. We need you to focus on the mission and not some personal vendetta.” He smiled to soften the blow, but he wouldn't have left his villa if it wasn't important. I sat there staring at him trying to think this through when a waiter placed a drink in front of me.
“Excuse me. I didn't order this.” I said and the waiter pointed to the bar.
“She said you did.” He replied as if that made a difference. I looked over to Bex, but she was busy filling another drink order. I looked at the glass with suspicion. The last time I saw her, she gave me a concussion as well as another pain in another body part.
“You alright Moon?” Asked Alex. “Look like someone just kicked you in the balls.” He said with a straight face, but he started giggling again. It was most unbecoming until I saw Vakirauta trying suppress laughter too.
“You know what?” I said looking at the two of them enjoying my discomfort. “Fuck it.” and I took a sip. It was unsweetened ice tea. I was stumped. I wasn't sure what it was going to be, but that had to be the last thing! I looked over the glass at the two of them and they were both grinning. Vakirauta's was warm and non-threatening. I wish I could say the same about Daemon. His always made me ill.
“The food better not be this plain.” I said and put the glass down. “And none of that vegetarian crap either.” Vakirauta's smile vanished, but Daemon's only got wider. “what did I miss just now?” I asked.
“Oh, just that BaconRulez made Vakirauta's last meal here with bacon infused oils and hid more inside his tofu.” Daemon was way too pleased with this, but it was nice seeing someone else being the butt of a joke for a change.
“I was sick for a week. Thank you very much.” Vakirauta snapped. But the corners of his mouth started to go up. “It was awesome though.”
“And that was an ear infection, not the bacon.” Added Daemon.
I would have commented, but the waiter came back with help as they put several dishes in front of us.
“Does it matter that I didn't order anything yet?” I asked him and he shrugged.
“Got my orders Moon. Bex said your medical report from your last stay in the hospital was not encouraging and you need a better diet. I wouldn't say no if I was you.” And with that he did an eye roll. I sighed heavily and knew I was beaten again. Fortunately BaconRulez really knows how to cook and the meal was delicious. And once again he hid his trade mark bacon in our dishes. I saw Vakirauta spot it, but pretend not too.

The meal was excellent and after we finished, we retired to the lounge. I ordered a double Maker's Mark, but when it came, it was a cup of hot green tea. I closed my eyes and imagined strangling Bex with the strings for the tea bags, but when I opened them, I drank my tea.
“Now, someone want to fill me in, or am I to go stumbling about in the dark being hit over the head occasionally and then after much trouble and tribulations, finally retrieve the object Lechdanan hired me for? I asked both of them. Alex looked to Vakirauta, but he was busy looking at the hot blonde that just entered the lounge.
“Huh, what?” He stammered once Daemon kicked him saving me the trouble.
“Hardlicker.” Said Alex. And Vakirauta had a blank did I miss something kind of look on his face. “Hardlicker.” He repeated.
“Oh right!” He replied finally. “Ah, yes. He has the orb and Lechdanan wants it back. Only its not his either. It belongs to Pavshuas. Lechdanan stole it from Pavshuas and Hardlicker won it in a poker game that afterward Lechdanan found three extra aces in the deck. He knew Hardlicker had cheated him and he wants his prize back. Only it's not his and Pavshaus wants it back too.” He explained.
“But why is GGG here.” I said motioning to the restaurant. That got them both uncomfortable.
“We're not really sure.” Alex said and that must be really hard for him to say. “We only know that they are watching all of us. And I mean all of us. Be careful what you say. It's almost like this is a game for them.” He whispered looking this way and that. Vakirauta too was starting to sweat. He wiped his forehead with his napkin and used the movement to hide his pointing towards the door and the Maitre d. My not understanding must have been plastered all over my face.
“What?” I finally blurted out after the two of them tried several times to draw my attention to the Maitre d.
“Really Moon?” Vakirauta was visible upset now. “Do I have to spell it out for you?” He hissed.
“I guess so.” I replied sarcastically, but Bex come over with our refills and they both sat back, obviously scared.
“They are trying to point out that the Maitre d is Chris the Wilson, but they are both too big a pussies to say it.” And she left with the empties. I smiled at the two of them and they both were blushing.
“Pussy A and Pussy V or I know Pussy Senior and,” But Daemon cut me off.
“Stow it Moon. If Chris is out, something big is happening and we wont be able to save you this time!” He said.
“This time? When have you ever saved from anything! Hell, remember Paris?” I threw back in his face.
“Paris?” Asked Vakirauta. “That was you?” It was my turn to finally know something one of them didn't and I was going to relish it, but life doesn't work that way for me. Michael the waiter brought a phone to the table and told me that a Mr. Solwitch was the other end. I sank a little and picked the phone up.
“Moon you fucking bastard! I ought to gut you and make you eat it so I can rip it out again!” came the voice on the other end.
“Hi Solwitch. Long time no want to see.” I answered. That earned me a snicker from both Daemon and Vakirauta.
“I am going to enjoy destroying everything you hold dear before you beg me to end your miserable worthless life!” He continued. I tried again.
“Listen Sol, I'm sitting here having a nice time with Alex and Vicky, so you mind getting to the point?” that got Vakiruata glaring at me and Daemon was smiling that horrible sick grin of his.
“Fine. Asshole. I want you to forget trying to help Lechdanan and fuck Hardlicker and Pavshaus! The orb is fucking mine and if you don't deliver it, I am going to invent new ways to rip the flesh from your body! I'm going to feed your...,” He kept ranting, but I had put the phone down and picked up my new cup tea and smiled to my seatmates. We clinked glasses and each took a sip. Except this tea tasted different. I looked over to Bex and she was smiling and doing a cute little wave. Ah fuck me! At least I was fortunate to see both Daemon and Vakirauta fall face first into the table before I joined them.

Just once I would love to wake up after falling asleep naturally. The knock out drops Bex used were brutal. Every joint in my body was aching and my headache was experimenting with new styles of death metal music from what I could discern. I was afraid to open my eyes. Afraid that they would have discovered some new way of hurting me that the rest of my body had yet heard about, but I had to open them sometime and I slowly cracked open my left eye.
So far so good. I opened it a little more and saw I was in a small brightly lit room with a table in front of me. More importantly there was a bottle of Advil and a glass of water next to it. I greedily opened the bottle and took six to start. The water was tap water, but it did its job. I closed my eye again and waited for the Advil to play bouncer to the mosh pit of pain that was my body.
I had no way of tracking time, but finally I could feel the rave getting out and I opened both my eyes this time. Sitting in front of me was Mark. The doorman at Wittgenstein's. I smiled at him as the Advil finally kicked the last straggler out of my head. I reached for the bottle and took two more for moral support. The first six had done a great job, but they must be exhausted by now. I downed the rest of the water and put the glass back on the table and waited him out.
“Moon, I should apologize about the Nicophinine, it's after effects are quite unpleasant, but I'm not going to.” He said in a New Zealand accent. At least he wasn't trying to hide it anymore. I felt like telling him that his American accent was worse than shopping for mirrors with Bermal Berist. Extremely painful to endure without laughing.
“Apology accepted.” I said with a shit eating grin. It was a calculated risk. Had they wanted me dead, I would have been a goner long ago. No, they needed something from me.
“You're reputation precedes you Mr. Moon. And if you wish, this interview can end much like your others do.” He said with a straight face. I normally have a hard time when people threaten me. Makes me want to push them harder, but the fog of stupidity cleared and I sat back and nodded my understanding. But a thought struck me and I sat forward again.
“My dinner companions?” I inquired.
“Are none of your concern Mr. Moon.” He replied quickly opening a folder in front of himself.
“I think this will go much better for both of us if you humor me.” I too know the art of subtle threats and it was his turn to think. He moved his hand to his ear. He was getting instructions from someone listening in. It was not surprising. Rarely do the real movers show their faces unless forced to.
“Right.” He said, “Vakirauta was released as soon as he awoke.” He face showed his disapproval. “It seems he has a benefactor that has some pull around here. I do not know any more than that other than I saw him enter a large limousine that promptly drove away.” It had to be Charan. I heard he held great sway with the one known as Chris the Wilson. Either that or it was poker night.
It made me feel better knowing that he was free and clear, but truthfully, I never worried much about Vakirauta. He had an air about him that I felt he would always land on his feet. Part of me hated him for it, but I could respect it. No, I was worried about Daemon. I knew that GGG had been eager to grab him before and while he was a strange mix of pseudo-zen bullshit and Carnie, I would miss him if anything happened. Plus where would I get my information? I'd probably have to retire!
“What about Alex “ I asked. “Where you keeping him?” I didn't have any real leverage, but it doesn't hurt to try and fake it.
“Ah yes, Alex.” He spat. “The infamous Mr. Daemon.” He stressed the word infamous. I could see he was not pleased and that made me smile.
“How'd he get away this time?” I asked cheerfully. The dark expression on his face told the story.
“Wish we knew.” He sighed and sat back in his chair. Only it had the tiny rubber piece missing off of the back leg and he thought he was going to tip over. I stifled my laugh as I needed to hear more about Alex rather than enjoy his embarrassment over such a trivial event. “I loaded his body in the back of the van with you and Vakirauta and locked the door shut myself. When we opened it, he was gone. Stranger still was he should have been out cold for another two hours!” He shook his head is disgust, but suddenly he perked up a bit and smiled at me. I didn't like it one bit.
“But we still have you Mr. Moon and time for you to earn your release.” His voice conveyed everything I didn't want to hear. He started to sit back again and stopped himself in time, but I couldn't keep the snicker to myself. His glare would have melted steel if he hadn't just almost tipped himself again, but the spell was broken and I no longer feared him at all. I was going to make out of here and when I did, I was going to find Alex and...And what? Then a sick thought struck me. Spoonman and Nightmare90!
So freshly at peace again with my inner demons, I picked the folder up and saw the picture of the orb again. Under it was a heavily retracted description. I looked over the top of the folder at Mark and tried to do the one eyebrow trick, but I knew I had blown it again.
“This tells me nothing.” I said flipping the folder back at him. I must have got to him. His reaction was to slam the folder shut and leave the room. I wish that made me feel better, but I've been in this type of room before and when the lightweight leaves a heavy takes his place and I usually come out worse for wear physically. This time I was not chained to the floor and was deciding if fighting back was wise. I might get one of them, but I was still God knows where and with how many GGG agents waiting outside the door?
I didn't have to wait long. Bex entered the room and I cringed. She approached the table and reached behind her back. I was preparing for a pipe or even a gun, but she had a ticket that she put on the table in front of me.
“Be there on time.” Was all she said and I nodded. She turned and left the room with the door wide open. I sat there for a time and tried to think things through. I finally picked the ticket up and looked at it. It was a fucking bus ticket to New Jersey! I closed my eyes again and sighed. This was going to suck.
I got up expecting to have an armed escort show me to an elevator, but when I got outside I found I was in the basement of my apartment building, next to the laundry. Mother fuckers! I screamed in my head. I would have screamed out loud, but I didn't want to disturb my neighbors. I rubbed the growth in my face and let out a breath I didn't realize I had been holding. This is it. I told myself. I'm going to find this Goddamn orb and shove it up someone's ass! Then it will be time to retire and get out of this crappy profession for good! I'll fucking go join Scrotie McB on the beach and tell the rest of the world to fucking kiss off!

I got to Atlantic City and stood there in the bus station. I had no idea where to go next. I had been banned by all, but one casino. I sighed. It had to be the Onionspam Palace. I shivered at the thought of it. He had bought it cheap after Trump went to jail for election fraud. Turned out he wasn't an American after all and maybe not even human. But if you thought Trump was in love with himself, Onionspam would stalk himself because he was so in love with his own personality. So of course he renamed the casino after himself!
I hailed a cab and looked inside. No Cronk. I was both relieved and disappointed. It was a strange sensation, but the ride was uneventful. I arrived at the front and the doorman waited for me to exit. It was Mark again. As I went past he told to go to the penthouse, but I already knew that. I got a little revenge, I stiffed him. No tip and he looked angry holding his hand out like that. I though about getting a drink first, but while I didn't see her, I could just imagine what I would be served this time.
I rode the elevator up and tried not to look at the camera staring back down at me. The door opened and there guarding the hallway was Spoonman and Nightmare90. I gave them a look and we all laughed.
“Don't worry Moon, GGG made sure that we let you through.” Spoonman said.
“What about on the way out?” I asked with a smile.
“Funny Story.” Said Nightmare90 and we all laughed, but I still went to the window to make sure there was a pool.
“Listen guys, after this is all over, I think I might hire you myself again.” and they nodded.
“Singapore?” Ask Nightmare90.
“Something like that.” I said and we laughed again. I doubted I could pay back Vakirauta properly, but Daemon had it coming. I got stuck with the bill at Wittgenstein's place. It was stuck inside the bus ticket. That brought me back down to Earth. First things first.

I went to the door and knocked.
“Who is it?” He asked and I knew he would be looking through the peep hole as I kicked the door in. Laying there on the floor was Hardlicker. Found the fucker at last!
“Time to pay the bill Hardlicker!” I snapped and took a step towards him. Except he pulled a giant hand cannon of a gun and pointed at me.
“What the fuck is wrong with you?!” He screamed getting to his feet, but never taking the gun off of me.
“Oh, and I'm here for the orb too you cheap bastard.” I said smiling, but I wanted to throttle him. Only the gun was keeping me from choking the shit at of him!
“Fuck the orb!” He yelled. “I'm sick and tired of you accusing me of being cheap!”
“It was your turn to pay asshole!” I snarled taking a step forward, but he raised the gun higher and I stopped.
“That was three years ago!” I could see him hoping the guards would come, but they were good mercs and GGG had paid for them to let us be. “I can't believe you are that upset over a thirty six dollar bill!”
“Thirty six dollars and eight cents , plus tip. Only I had just a twenty on me, you son of a bitch!” I was still trying to think of how I could get to him with him shooting me.
“It was your turn! I paid the last time!” He pleaded.
“Then why did you leave through the fire door after you said you had to go to the bathroom?” I fired back.
“Because of the fire you idiot!” was his comeback.
“You set that fire you stupid son of a bitch!” I screamed “The owners made me pay for the pizza and beers and the new restaurant! Only I didn't have that kind of money, so I worked it off. Remember Athens?” I took another step.
“One more step Moon and I swear to God I will shoot you!” He warned.
“I highly doubt it!” I snapped. Except he pulled the trigger on that hand cannon! He missed, but the bang was deafening!
“...” He said holding his hands over his ears. The gun was still in his hand, but he was distracted. I jumped the table between us and the two us went over the back of the sofa. I was better at this kind of fighting and easily got the gun from him and the two of us faced off again.
“....” He yelled. I still couldn’t understand him. My ears were still ringing like mad and I nearly was deaf!
“Use a suppressor if you are going to fire a gun indoors!” I yelled. I still couldn't hear his reply, but I know it was 'What?' I shook my head in disgust. I let the clip fall to the floor and then separated the barrel from the rest of the gun and tossed it one way and the rest the other way.
He was beginning to recover, but I couldn't let that happen yet and pushed him back down over the overturned sofa. I looked around the room and there on another table was the orb. I picked it up. Didn't look special and certainty didn't feel special. Then something more important caught me eye! It was his wallet laying on the ground! I picked it up and took three twenty’s out of it.
“Now we even.” I said and walked out into the hallway. Right into Spoonman and Nightmare90. I sighed yet again and held out my arms. At least I didn't have to wait for the elevator.

I made it back in one piece from New Jersey and went straight to Lachdanan's place. Whale was waiting at the door, no sign of the Kid. That made me nervous.
“He's waiting for you in the study.” He said.
“What, not going to tase me Epsilon?” I asked.
“If you had been stupid enough to bring the orb with you, sure. Would have made my job a lot easier.” He paused, “You really weren't that stupid were you?”
“Not this time.” I said and walked past him into the study. I closed the doors behind me. Lachdanan was sitting in a chair by the fireplace. When I turned around from the doors, he had a gun pointed at me.
“Good to see you Moon. I assume you came back with my property?” He asked smugly. I walked over to his extremely expensive decanters and lifted the top off one and smelled. Nope, put the top back on and try another. It was unfamiliar to me, but the aroma was pleasant. I poured a measure into one of his expensive crystal glasses and walked to the fireplace.
“Got my money?” I asked and took a sip. It was not good as I hoped it would be.
“It's on the table, but this gun says you may want to answer my question first.” He at least had a suppressor on the end and the caliper was small enough that the kick would not throw his aim off. I smiled and took the orb out of my coat pocket. Thank God Whale hadn't frisked me! Lachdanan's eyes got wide and I flipped to him. He caught it, but I threw my drink in his face too! I took another step and punched him right in the nose as he tried to bring the gun back around.
“Moon!” He screamed. “I just got the splints off yesterday you asshole!” He said with tears in his eyes. Or was it brandy? Didn't matter. I had the orb and the gun now and went to the money. I opened the case and there was my cash. I smiled and turned to face him again.
“Pavshaus says hi.” I said and his eyes got wide. “Anyway, I fulfilled my contract and returned the orb, now I really must be going.” I smiled and closed the case. I went to the door and paused. I was going to stride right through, but I had one of those moments of clarity and stopped myself. I looked down at the gun and shrugged. Why not? I emptied the clip through the door. The noise was painful again, but at least it wasn't ear shattering!
I pushed the doors open and on the other side was Whale and the Fire Kid. I had got them both. Whale was sitting down holding his hand. I had actually hit the taser, but it must of hurt like a son of bitch. Fire kid wasn't as lucky. He was laying flat on his face with a pool of blood growing larger. I knelt down next to him and I could still feel a pulse. Good, he wasn't dead. I flipped him over and saw that he must have been trying to spy though the keyhole. The bullet had only grazed his head, but head wounds bleed like a son of bitch. As I got up, he started moaning and I smiled again.
“See you around Whale.” I tossed him the now empty gun. He just sat there looking at me.
“I think I need to retire while I still can.” He said and I laughed. I was thinking the same thing.


I was back at the office thumbing through the cash. I never had this kind of money before and if I knew life, something would sure it didn't last. Plus I still had to get the orb back to Pavhaus. Or Solwitch possibly. I didn't really care who it belonged to, I just wanted GGG off my back. I was brought back to the real world by the phone ringing. I stared at it and decided against answering it. Probably Daemon calling to torment me subtly again.
I got up and headed for the door except I stopped when I saw the silhouette. I relaxed when I recognized the shape. It was Peachii. I was behind on rent again and she could smell money a mile away. I opened the case and took out enough money to pay up the arrears and then I thought for a moment and took more out to cover the next month. Secretly I was hoping not ever to return, but she had been good to me, what with all the break-ins and such.
I opened the door smiling and with my hand out, holding the money. The smile disappeared. She was pointing a gun at me. I tried again and smiled holding the cash higher and further out. She expression didn't change, but she did take the cash. Only she didn't lower the gun.
“Hand over the orb Moon.” She said.
“What orb?” I answered cheerfully, but she wasn't buying it.
“Solwitch has a price on your head and more if the orb is recovered.” She stated. The gun never wavered and I wasn't sure she would miss like I thought Hardlicker would.
“How much?” I asked again trying to be cheerful. It was beginning to work. I could see the corners of her mouth start to move.
“Just give me the orb Moon!” She said, but she was starting to laugh under her breath.
“Would you be willing to take less not to shoot me?” I asked jokingly and it worked. She let the gun fall away and smiled.
“Late again I will shoot you!” She said bringing the gun back up, but I stepped forward and kissed her forehead.
“Thanks Peachii, I really owe you this time.” I didn't let it show, but I was shaking badly.
“Aw, this makes up for all the times I trashed your office while you were out.” She said and walked away. “But don't be late again bitch!” She said over her shoulder. I was extremely relieved and turned for the elevator. Except Bex was there!
“Try that honey shit on me and I will kill you.” She snarled waving her gun in my face. “And I won't miss.” My shoulders slumped and I hung my head a little.
“Why can't you people just call and ask me to go?” I pleaded.
“We tried, but you wouldn't answer the phone.” She slapped me up against the head and I just shook my head and followed her out to the car. Luca was driving this time and Bex didn't bother to get in.
“Home Jeeves!” I commanded and Luca turned around to look at me and smiled. Then the fucker tased me!
“I prefer a quiet ride Moon.” He said as I slipped to the floor and darkness.

I awoke to the sounds of water hitting the sides of the boat I had to be on. I opened my eyes and sure enough, I was on a small cabin cruiser or something like it. I Sat up quickly and wish I hadn't. The roof was low enough that I wailed my head pretty solid and nearly passed out again!
I made it to the stairs and trying to hold my head and the handrails at the same time. It was like a ballet for the blind. It didn't go well. I finally made it to the hatch and exited to the deck. Strange. I couldn't see anyone else. I looked to the bow, but no one was there. Towards the stern, The wheel was turning itself and the boat obeyed. Right, so the auto pilot was steering the boat, but where was everyone else?
I reached into my coat and felt the orb still there. At least that was still there! I wasn't so sure about my sanity. I looked forward and I could see land getting closer. And closer at way too fast a speed! I tried to time it and jumped overboard, but right after I hit the water the boat slowed down and eased onto the beach. I on the other hand had landed on a rock and sprained my ankle! And I was now soaking wet when I could have simply got off the front of the boat on to dry land. Fucking life! I swore then that when I died, I was coming back to haunt life forever!
Still, here I was with no clue to were I was. Then I rolled my eyes and looked heavenward. “Really?” I asked the sky. “Wreaclast? Again?” I pleaded to no one. Why couldn't it have been a nice bed and breakfast or even a cruise ship with attendants waiting on me hand and foot? But this getting me nowhere and I set out on the clearly marked path ahead of me. I ankle hurt like a bitch, but I was hungry and thirsty and just waiting for death to take me seemed too long an ordeal. So limping and dripping, I set off.

I got about three miles or so when I was able to hitch a ride on a wagon to the nearest town. The driver didn't talk and I didn't feel like it either, so we rode in silence. When we got to the town, I looked for something to pay him with, but when I pulled out the orb so I could check the rest of the pocket, he suddenly looked terrified and whipped his horse hard to get away. I stood there looking at his rapidly retreating wagon and I narrowed my eyes to a slit. I hefted the orb once or twice and a wick thought hit me and I smiled a nasty evil smile.
I limped to the nearest restaurant and ordered a large meal and lots of beer. I sat there gorging myself when the owner came for his money. I pulled the same thing. I searched my pockets until I took the orb out and he freaked and the rest of the restaurant followed his lead and scrambled out ever available exit. I smiled and put the orb back in my pocket and as I worked my way through the tables, I sampled a morsel here and there.
Next it was into the clothing store. I tied on this and that and found a nice pair of pants (strangely rare around here) and a new clean and dry shirt. I fished through and out came the orb. The shop keeper and his assistant locked themselves in the back. I was really starting to enjoy this! I was laughing when I left the store and there was an armed angry mob waiting for me! I stopped for a moment and thought why not? I held the orb up and shouted some nonsense. They broke and ran. I laughed my ass off and went in search of Vakirauta's place.
It took much longer than I thought it would. First, no one would stop to give me a lift. As soon as they saw me, they would take off running. Word gets around fast here! But finally I saw his place ahead and relaxed. All I could think about was sitting down and taking my weight off of my ankle. I was so happy right then and there that I failed to notice the shadow crossing mine. I did remember to collapse and black out when the object struck the back of my head.

This time I came to suspended by chains off the floor. It was hurting my arms, but at least it took the weight off my ankle. I glanced around and figured it had to be Solwitch. I saw the figure of someone through the lace curtains that Daemon would have hated. They were approaching and I was rapidly trying to think of a witty remark to piss Solwitch of with, but it was Pavhaus instead!
“Pav old buddy!” I exclaimed. But he wasn't smiling and mine faded quickly.
“Moon.” He said in a toneless greeting.
“Ah Pav, mind getting me out of these chains?” It was worth the shot.
“Mind? No, I don't mind.” He said with a straight face. “What I do mind is the bullet still lodged in my leg where Bex shot me. But have its not like you couldn't have just given yourself up that day.” His eyes narrowed and I could see the anger rising even as he was trying to play it cool. I sighed. I knew I was never going to win this argument, but I wasn't going to let it go either.
“I told you to let her go and cut your losses, but no, you had to keep going on about a set of rules I never agreed to.” I really wished I would keep my shut, but sometimes I really can't help myself.
“Just so you know, I decided to let her go. I knew you well enough to know that you would let her die and then try to guilt trip me the rest of my life. But letting her go was your idea.” He snarled, “That's when she took the gun away and shot me!” He now had his face right in front of mine. At least he had brushed his teeth!
“Ah Pav?” I muttered and he kept his face right in front of mine.
“What?” He hissed.
“Look down.” I said He got a confused look on his face and looked down. My knee caught him right in the wrong place and he fell off of the step stool he had climbed to get in my face. I used my feet to pull it closer and take the weight off my arms. Now I was able to stretch and wiggle my way out of the chains.
I got down to the floor and had to stretch over and over again to get the kinks out of my shoulders, but I noticed that my back felt better. Must of been the hanging there had re straightened my spine! I couldn't help but smile. But I saw Pavhaus trying to get up. I started to kick him again and stopped. Why was I here anyway?
“Pavhaus?” I called to him and he looked back at me with the most accusing look I have ever seen! “I think I have something of yours.” I pulled the orb from the coat and tossed it to him. Bad move. He was still trying to help the pain by holding his balls and missed the catch. The orb shattered on the ground! He shot me another accusing look and I had to cringe.
“You fucking asshole!” He squeaked. I must of hurt him more than I thought I had.
“My Bad!” I yelled and went to see if I could salvage any of it.
“Stop!” He sounded better. I looked to him and he had made to a chair and sat down taking deep breaths. I looked down again at the pieces and something made me pick one up. It had Made by Udja written on part of it. It was my turn to be confused and I joined him at the table and sat down. My sprain still hurt.
“Is this a fake?” I asked and he lost the I will kill you look and replaced with a more sheepish look.
'They're all fake Moon.” He said and laughed till the pain of it made him stop.
“What?” I was astonished! “And what do you mean all of them?”
“It's a scam. I got Udja to make a bunch of dupes and I have been using them to get things for free since.” He confided. It was my turn to laugh.”
“If they are all fake, why does Solwitch, Hardlicker and Lachdanan want it so badly?” I inquired.
“They don't know it's fake. They think there's only the one and the person that possesses it gets to buy what they want with it. Only the real last orb was hidden away long ago. Possibly by GGG or even Charan.” He explained and I had to nod. But something else was nagging at me.
“If GGG knew it was a fake, why did they help me search for it?” I asked and he almost laughed again, but he was still holding his balls from the pain.
“Because it made it seem like the one Hardlicker had real value! Only the real orbs had long ago been used up and only the last one was around for me to make copies of it and live the easy life. Till Solwitch stole it and tried to make himself a living God with it. That's when Lachdanan found out about it and had Fire kid steal it. Little fucker burned down Solwitch's new temple too.” This time him managed a laugh without too much pain.
“I need a beer.” I said and he pointed to the other room. I hobbled into the kitchen and opened the fridge. Inside were several ice cold Sam Adams Boston lagers. At least he has taste. “Want one?” I shouted back and he made an affirmative sound and I brought the two bottles back to the table.
“Sorry about the chains Moon, I just didn't want you to flee again. I had to make it look like I had the real orb again.” He apologized. Then he pointed to a closet. “Got fifty more in there, but you have to be careful using them. Don''t want the value to decrease.”
We sat there sipping the beer and I thought of something!
“Pav, you got a cellphone?” I asked and he looked at me not understanding. “I need to call Daemon.” He still didn't look like he understood, but handed his phone over. I punched the buttons and I heard Alex pick it up.
“Pavhaus?” He asked.
“No Moon, long story” I said. “Listen Alex, I needed you to get to Wreaclast as soon as you can. I will have a chartered flight waiting for you in New Zealand. Just ask for Spoonman and Nightmare90.”
“Nightmare90? Why 90?” He asked.
“Ask him to tell you. It's a funny story.” I hung up the phone and Pavhuas and I clinked our bottles.
“you really are a bastard Moon.” was all he said.
“Yes I am.” I answered and drank my beer.

The End.