#ThatSirRossi

[thatssirrosi]

Demands w @InkedSoul_

Javi:: <Plans were coming together, finally. It had been weeks since my last meeting with Tyson. I’d checked in occasionally to see how things were going on his end, and of course checked in with Kelly, but there had been nothing official. We were trying to distract and deflect as much attention form the wolf encampment as we could, which meant I had to stay far the fuck away and it was making me twitchy. I liked to be hands on in these types of situations, I hated giving up that control. It’d be over soon though. When it was, Tyson and his group would be free of the cartel shit, even if they decided to keep running for me, which I hoped they would. It was profitable as hell for all involved. Breno had just given me the final run down of where this meet was supposed to happen. None of us were under the guise that it would be a friendly little sit down with Nogales and his men. This would be an all out war, thankfully we were prepared. Tyson was to surround the location with those willing to fight with him, along with my own men and wait for the signal to drop. As long as the location didn’t change, we were ready. I gave a nod to Breno and then ordered Henrique to get the helo ready for our departure. Everyone else was in place since the night before to eliminate any extra attention. Right now it was going to be on Breno, Henrique, and myself as I made my presence known.>

Tyson: - I had spent the better part of the past few weeks just trying to get the other wolves ready for what was going to be happening. We had to be prepared for anything from there being an agreement to stop or there needing to be dead bodies piled up. I was sitting in my recliner in my bedroom thinking of the different things that we needed and ran through mentally which wolves I knew that I wanted to take. Everyone wanted to participate but some of my guys were going to have to stay here with the women and kids. We weren’t going to be able to take guns on us but there were a couple humans that I knew would be with Javier that wouldn’t be front line with him, instead they would be back on the line with the wolves and I knew they would cover those of us that were back there. I wasn’t too worried about what I thought was going to happen but I was concerned about the other wolves. I got up from my chair and looked out the window that faced the backside of the property. I took in a long breath and sighed deeply. I had plans in place that would take care of the property and leave someone in my place just in case something happened to me while we were out there. I could see the other wolves hanging with their families and preparing themselves. I was just waiting for word to where we needed to be. I wasn’t sure at this point whether Javier was just going there first or not. I kept my phone in my pocket and nervously played with it.-

Javi: <As we flew in to the meet location, I watched out the window, noting little things that otherwise might be missed if no one thought to look for them. Little shifts, little discolorations in the trees. Our men. Some of theirs as well. Further in. Surrounded by the wolves and humans waiting for the signal. Sitting ducks if it came down to it. And that tension in my gut said it was a high chance it would. When we got close and began the landing procedure, I saw Salazar Nogales and his three corporals standing in a rigid and very formal line. The tension ebbed off them in waves. We waited until the blades stopped and the engine died down before I followed Henrique off, Breno behind me, Henrique and Breno held open their suit coats to show the weapons they wore, Salazar’s men did the same. There was no use pretending we were not armed, it was better to be honest in that respect. We also banked on them having at least two they didn’t show, because we certainly did. “Javier, it is good to see you again, old friend. I believe we have many things to discuss. If you will follow us, please.” We followed them in to the small trailer they had set up and took seats, well I took a seat across from Salazar, Henrique and Breno stood at my back. Then it was on to business. Onto Salazar’s unwarranted attacks on my people, encroaching into my territory, threatening those under my protection. Several of these issues had been surprises apparently based on the red anger brewing on Salazar’s face. Calls were made, orders barked…the tension only grew and I wasn’t sure what that meant for those outside these walls. He had a traitor or several in his mix, would they choose now to make their presence known?> 

Tyson: -The wolves and I stayed hidden like we were supposed to. We didn’t want to cause people anymore tension and we all knew that if the other cartel saw us they would start shit. No one sees us as anything other than a threat. I didn’t blame them, no one knew about us. I’m sure the other cartel had no idea that Javier was using us to run drugs for him. I wasn’t angry but I was anxious watching Javier go inside to meet with the other leader. I was in hopes that when he got in there they would discuss things and maybe come to an agreement. Maybe split the area or something. I knew the other wolves were nervous as well to see what was going to have to happen. We had discussed already that there would be a sign if we needed to fight and I was up front towards the meeting place waiting to see what Javier was going to do. Looking over my large shoulder I could see some of Javier’s men and they didn’t look very well either. I wasn’t one to go looking for a fight but this other cartel was dangerous and everyone knew it.-

Javi: <Each word spoken was terse, an undercurrent of the threat that was developing. I had brought to light an ugly situation in Salazar’s house and he was none too thrilled about it. The more we talked, the more things unraveled. After a few hours, it was easy to see some of his soldiers growing more restless. It was minor at first, a little twitch here, a fidget there. It increased the more Salazar swore this would end. No blood would need to be shed. He would never encroach on my land, on my people. It felt off enough that I was not set to ease by his placations and promises. As far as I was concerned my people were still in danger even with these promises. Until Salazar got his house in order I didn’t see that changing either. I didn’t see that happening, not without persuasion and nothing was more persuasive than an all out war. I pushed back my chair, ready to make my intention known. Salazar must have realized it because he jumped up, or tried. He almost made it before a loud pop rang through the room, followed by several more. A burning pain sheered through my side but I was more focused on the man who fell behind Salazar, eyes wide and so familiar to me. My gaze remained on him as I spoke to Breno, telling him to let the others know to stand down. He slipped from the room, Henrique unwavering at my side, though he pressed closer allowing me to lean slightly on him. Salazar was alive, bleeding heavily from his chest, “I will finish cleaning house, Javi. Your man saved my life. We are indebted. I will recall my men, set things back in order.” I nodded once> See that you do, Salazar. That land, those people, are off limits. Any hint of betrayal and you will get no other warning or courtesy from me. 

<He agreed, his men swore their oaths before I turned to leave, Henrique whispering in my ear about getting seen. I nodded again, slightly, and told him eventually, first we needed to see Tyson to let him know things were settled.>

Tyson: -Standing here not knowing what was going on wasn’t my forte. I was usually front and center at everything that was going on with my pack. But, this time was different. This path we’d chosen had taken us here being at the mercy of other men and their decisions. This is what the pack as a whole wanted and I knew that this was the choice all those years ago that I needed to make and for some odd reason this was the chance I had to go back and fix what should have been done. Turning my back on this decision is why most of the pack had left. Sure, I had some of my wolves stay and open businesses for themselves. But, most of them had to move on as they weren’t trained in any other field than being a wolf. Making their families. Hunting. I couldn’t blame them because that’s how most wolves were raised. Usually if you knew a trade other than being a wolf and being in a pack is because someone in your family was a human or you started as a human. Wolves only wanted this way of life.. Nothing else. Humans saw life for what it was. I knew that making this decision to be runners was the best thing for everyone in this pack and the growth of the pack and here now we were with our lives at the mercy of other men. Angry men. Men who didn’t care about anything other than making money and names for themselves. I silently prayed that Javier wasn’t in there fucking everyone. Even more praying that the other man involved wasn’t a fucking idiot. That’s when I heard the pop. I didn’t know where it came from but I motioned for everyone to stay still. Not to move. Mumbling when I saw Javier- Fuck

Javi: <Henrique led me from the building, one hand at the small of my back as he watched the others to make sure they didn’t pull any backhanded bullshit. We knew Tyson was close and since the others knew we had them surrounded it should have been no surprise as we walked past the vehicles towards where the wolves were waiting. When we cleared the sight of the building, Henrique leaned in and asked how I was. We glanced down and I pulled the jacket open just enough we could see the blood pooling along my side. The bullet appeared to be a through and through shot along my side, if I’d been over one inch it likely would have missed me completely. But we didn’t want to show weakness so we kept walking. We could patch it up later. It took a few more minutes before I came face to face with Tyson, nodding as our eyes met> It’s over. Anyone that wants out will be protected as well as those that continue to work with us. Your land, your pack, they will not be touched again. 

Tyson: -I could tell Javier was just slightly limping, not enough for a human to notice unless they were watching him closely. I nodded when he said we wouldn’t be touched again. That was great news as I knew that was Javier’s main concern and I didn’t want any wolves to be in harm's way doing something they enjoyed doing.- You ok? -I could smell blood and I knew there was a shot inside where the meeting was.- Do we need to get you somewhere? -I knew for myself I wouldn’t want to show weakness in front of my enemies. But, I wasn’t sure how bad things were and how far Javier would take them. We were all safe now so there weren’t any worries. I looked towards the building Javier walked out of to make sure there wasn’t any movement behind us-

Javier:  <My lip quirked slightly at the question, I knew I wouldn’t be able to conceal the injury from a wolf but it was still something that struck me off guard. He wasn’t falling over me to fix it or with concern but it was a genuine question, asked in a way that was similar to my most trusted would ask. Not enough to draw attention if anyone over heard. So many lacked that tact. I gave a small nod at Tyson, then towards the direction of the helicopter.> We can continue the discussion later, once all is cleaned up and taken care of. 

<My eyes flashed down for a moment to indicate the need for medical attention> You can ride with us, if you would like or you can give the news to your people and we will meet up later. 

Tyson: -I looked around after Javier asked me if I wanted to ride with them in his helicopter. I saw all my wolves looking towards me for answers. I nodded to them and signaled for them to return home. They didn’t need to be here any longer and the smell of Javier’s blood was heavy in the air. I wasn’t sure if my help was going to be needed stitching and cleaning him up or if Javier’s men had this handled but I figured it would be best to follow my wolves home. I had faith in Javier and knew he wouldn’t be doing anything that he couldn’t get himself out of. I nodded at him- Come to the ranch when you’re done getting this -motioning to his body- cleaned up and we’ll talk. -I watched Javier as he nodded and walked stiffly to his helicopter, loaded up and left. I was the only wolf not in wolf form because I wasn’t sure if any of this was going to need me to have a gun handy or not. I shifted quickly and fell in line behind the other wolves as they made their way back. It was getting late and my body was feeling strange. A buzzing feeling. Things felt strangely calm on the property when we got back. I sat on the back porch watching over the land and I could see lights on in the wolves houses. I took a long drink of beer before getting up to head to bed. On my way to my bedroom my knees got weak and out of the blue…. -

[thatssirrosi]

Introductions and planning w/@InkedSoul_ & @GrowlsNHowls

Javi: <The heavy silence filled the car the closer we got to Tyson’s property. Kelly’s nervous energy was filling the car and it made me glad that I had decided to help him with the move after all. Initially he was going to drive himself but I worried for him. Even though his former boss and hunter had been taken care of, I didn’t want to leave him unprepared for anything else that might come his way. My hope was that Tyson and his wolves would be able to educate my nephew on what was in store for him so he could properly defend himself should the need arise. It also wouldn’t hurt to have another set of eyes on the property with the issues they’ve been having. Tyson had agreed to the meeting and tentatively agreed to let Kelly stay, if Kelly agreed. He still wasn’t sure he wanted to live with everyone or off on his own. Damn stubborn child that he was. Glancing over, I tapped his thigh with the back of my hand> Doing okay, kid? I promise Tyson isn’t going to bite your head off.

Kelly: ::I hated this. This uncertainty. This change. I knew I couldn’t stay in my home any longer but still I hated the unknown of what was to come. Especially since none of this was my want or my fault even. I didn’t ask to be bitten, didn’t ask to have a psycho for a boss, and sure as hell didn’t know my property fell into the territory of an Alpha unwilling to share the space. Even though I was there first. Uncle Javi was certain his business associate would be able to help, but I wasn’t going to count on it. I was already untrusting before all this, now even more so. But if I could help Uncle Javi after he helped me then I would. Maybe I could live off the edge of this town we were driving through, Breno said we were close. If that was the case…it was remote, I could just exist with my dogs and not be surrounded…maybe. Still, I had agreed to the meeting. I jumped visibly when Uncle tapped my leg and flashed a small smile at him:: I’m good, just nervous. I’m not good with people. It’s why I lived where and how I did. I’ll do my best not to offend him while were there.

Javi:: <I sighed and flashed a matching smile at Kelly.>  I am not worried about you offending him, Kelly. Tyson is fair and I think it’ll be mutually beneficial to all of us to have you there. Plus your dogs will have plenty of places to run out here. 

<Henrique pulled through the large gate and drove around to the main house> Just be yourself and let the chips fall where they may. 

<The car parked and Breno and Henrique exited the car first. Tyson was expecting us and I had already come to know that he was alerted to our presence long before he actually saw us. While we were here, I was hoping to also get a plan in place for protecting his land and my business. I opened the door and stepped out, leaning back in and grinning> C’mon kid. You can ogle Breno later.

Kelly: ::My cheeks flamed red at the final sentence and I shook my head grateful for the fact I could hide most of my face behind my hair at times like this. Totally the type of first impression I wanted to make on the wolves I was about to meet. I stepped out of the car and cracked my back, my body unhappy with me for the long periods of inactivity. I mumbled under my breath that I wasn’t ogling anyone and quietly followed the three men into the house.::

Tyson: -I nodded a welcome to Javier and the man he brought with him and lead them into the dining room of my house. It was large and had a lot of seating. It’s where most of the meetings here with the other wolves happened so I figured this would be the best place to talk. The least I could do was make everyone comfortable. I walked in and pulled out the closest chair to me and sat down. I knew the man with Javier was a new wolf. I could smell it all over him- So talk to me. What do we have here? How can I help you two? -I pointed to the man with Javier- 

Javi: <One thing I appreciated about Tyson was that he didn’t mess around wasting time with niceties. It was always straight to business. I glanced over at Kelly who was ducking his head behind his hair and then spoke> Tyson, this is my nephew, Kelly. Kelly, this is Tyson. Kelly has run into a bit of trouble, not of his own violation mind you, and is in need of a fresh start and maybe a bit of…mentorship into the ways of your kind. I have taken care of nullifying the immediate threat against him but he still needs a fresh start. I believe this arrangement can be beneficial to you both. Kelly was a park ranger so experienced with threats of animals and humans, and can operate a gun for threats. He’s a keen eye for things that are out of place. He can help keep an eye on things, isn’t that right, kid?

Kelly ::I rolled my eyes slightly at the ‘kid’ comment but the rest of what Uncle Javi said was true. I did need that fresh start. Finally I lifted my gaze so I could properly see the Alpha. He was pretty much what I expected from someone Javi worked with. Tattoos covered much of his skin, dark hair, his eyes sharp and knowing, and an energy that practically vibrated off of him. I didn’t know if that was a wolf thing or just a drug dealer thing, though it was different than the energy from Uncle and his men. Tyson had a presence that commanded attention. I let out a soft puff of air and nodded:: Nice to meet you, Tyson. What Uncle Javi is trying to say is I was attacked and turned against my will or knowledge, because of that, my former boss tried to kill me since he was a hunter and I didn’t know it, and then there was an Alpha there claiming I was on her land and she wanted me gone. So now I’m here. I’m a hard worker, that much is true. I don’t know shit about wolves or rather human wolves, so I could use some help with that. I’m not great with people. I raise my dogs and lived far enough away I was usually left alone. Animals are quieter, less…everything wrong with humanity. 

Tyson: -looking Kelly over as he spoke. He was new to this life and quite different than me in the wolf sense. But, he did look like he’d fit in well with everyone and he’d have to learn how to be in a pack. I thought it over while he spoke and looked at Javier. I could see the pride for his nephew in his eyes as he watched him speak. I could see his love for him and smell it in the air so I knew this was important. All new wolves needed help and lord knows we needed help around here with all this shit going on. I looked to Kelly- I’m not a bitten wolf and most of us here weren’t bitten. We were born like this. I’m from a very long, very old line of royalty. But, I do have a small handful of wolves that were bitten and they’re much like you. If you prefer to be alone I have an empty house by the lake that you’re welcome to. There’s a lot of dogs out here that we own other than us of course. -chuckling to myself and looking to Javier- We need the eyes but are you ok with him running orders with my boys

Kelly: ::I chewed my lip and listened as Tyson spoke, something about him made me want to sit up straighter and I was guessing that was the whole Alpha thing, or maybe the born wolf thing, or royalty. Honestly I had no clue but I was going to do it regardless. I gave a slight nod before he turned the attention to my uncle:: I’d prefer to be on my own at first I think. Another reason I lived where I did was because I raise and train service dogs…which I now realize might not go over so well…..

Javi:: <I bit back a small chuckle as Kelly’s words trailed off. I hadn’t even thought about how that would look to other wolves. It had always been part of who Kelly was. Deciding to give him a bit of reprieve I cleared my throat and turned my attention back to Tyson> If you need an extra pair of hands for running, then I trust Kelly will be up to the task, but don’t think I’m putting him here to watch you, Tyson. I trust you know what you are doing and we’ve not had any issues yet. This is more about the problems we have been having from the outside. 

Tyson: -I nodded and smiled- It’ll be easier for you to bond with the others if you go on runs with them. It’ll also help with your shifting at first. It’s not the most comfortable thing and we go through the adjustments as children when it’s not so jarring. But, they’ll help get you adjusted to needing to get the run out and hunt. Training dogs? That’s your business. We all have businesses in town to cover how we have money. You might want to look into that. It’ll cover your finances fairly easily. The mayor here is one of us that runs his own pack in town so there’s not much snooping around here from cops or anything. -I jotted down directions- Your nearest neighbor is out of sight. I think it’ll work best for your solitude. The only thing you’ll see is the deer in the morning coming to feed. The man who built the house left feed in the shed. The others will be glad it’s someone else’s responsibility now. We meet every Monday night for pack business and to lay out runs and watches for the week. The only thing I ask is that you respect everyone and they’ll respect you. Also, don’t tell anyone Javier is your uncle. They don’t need to know it’ll just make them intimidated and they won’t be themselves around you. Like I said, I think you’ll fit in well. The key to your house is hanging by the back door it’s marked, you’ll know it’s yours. -grinning- I’d welcome you here normally with a bonfire and dinner with the wolves but everyone is on a detail or a run. It’ll have to wait until Monday. 

Kelly: ::I couldn’t help snorting out a laugh when Tyson said it wasn’t comfortable to shift, that was the understatement of the century. I shrugged a shoulder about the business:: It wasn’t my primary source of income but it was decent, not like I can go back to doing animal control now. I don’t mind feeding deer or anything else. 

::I laughed out loud at the mention of keeping my relationship secret:: I have never used my uncle’s name for benefit before. I only called him this time because I was out of ideas, no offense Uncle, but we both know mom hated having to call you for favors and never wanted me to lean on that either. 

::I glanced back at Tyson as I took the proffered directions:: I’d rather they not know the relationship either, they’ll either like me or hate me based on my own personality, not what they think I can do for them with my connection.

Javi:: <I rolled my eyes but still smiled soft at the mention of my late sister.> She would understand this one, Kel. She’d want me to do what I could to keep you safe. I think Tyson can better provide that here than I could. 

<My focus returned to Tyson> I appreciate your willingness in this, Tyson. I did speak with Kelly about the threats moving in and he will be keeping an eye out as well. I think we need to move soon though and catch them both off guard because I am certain they expect we are still in the dark as to who is behind the attacks. I just need to know if you want to bring the fight here or take it to them?

Tyson: -I thought long and hard about the question Javier asked me. Where did I want this to happen at? Bringing it here would be good because then it’s on our time and our property which we know. But, the humans here. We would run the risk of someone seeing that didn’t need to. Taking it to them would mean we would have to learn their property, look for wolves in the area and possibly stopping business here to do that- I’m not sure Javier. I see the good and the bad. I’m just not sure what would be best. What are your thoughts? We have the room obviously to house everyone if we brought it here. We could detail there and learn what needs to happen for that. 

Javi: <I gave a slight nod as Tyson spoke. This was the same circle that I’d found myself in. There were costs and benefits to each. Innocent people would be caught up either way though I’d prefer them to be the ones residing away from here, which was not something I prided myself on. I was only human after all and always looked out for my best interests and hoped that would trickle down among my associates. This was one of those cases. Especially with Kelly now living here. I had to think of what was best. I glanced at Breno and nodded once as he led Kelly out to find his new place. He didn’t need to be here for this. I waited until they’d gone and the focused solely on Tyson> There’s no easy answer. I already have scouts on the two cartels. I will have information within days regarding their numbers and weapon situation. I think the best bet will be to lure them here, if we get lucky they start taking each other out before we have to lift a finger. We can send the humans and those not wanting to fight to safe houses and gather everyone else here to be ready. Does that work for you?

Tyson: -slowly nodding- The humans here won’t be able to know that there’s anything going on other than the humans that know about us. We’ll have to lure them here behind the walls to be safe. Your nephew being here complicates things with danger. But, I trust that if something were to happen you would understand. I’ll do my best to keep him safe and show him the ropes around here. He’ll need to be taught how to be a wolf so that he falls in line with the others. I think he’ll make a fine wolf though. Let me know what your scouts find out and I’ll get a couple of my guys down there as well to keep an eye between them and us. Maybe a few of them will be into big game hunting and getting glimpses of the wolves will get them interested enough to make them come hunting this way. -grinning big- I have an order for guns from my contact in San Antonio coming in this weekend for the wolves. I need them to be safe here if not in wolf form and their significant others as well. I have a friend that was in the army and owns a gun range here that’s coming to show the others how to handle themselves and stay hidden… This is getting very interesting. 

[thatssirrosi]

Strategy Meeting w/@InkedSoul_

Javi: <It was obvious Tyson was less than pleased with the way I was handling the little situation regarding the body on his land. I rush for no one and refuse to jump because someone demands it. I earned my position and I will damn sure make it known that I require respect. However, that didn’t mean I was not taking the matter seriously. Henrique had set out within hours to see what was going on and we had been in constant communication. When the text came through with the head, I immediately forwarded them to both Henrique and Breno to start the search. The death was brutal, unlike anything we’d seen in the territories in a long time and it troubled me. Especially being on Tyson’s property and doubly so after Tyson found and eliminated the threat on my own property. Someone was getting stupid. I put out feelers to see if anyone was taking claim but after two days it was still radio silence. There were rumors, of course there were. I did not operate on rumors though. For now, we were beefing up security in Tyson’s territory as well as those I had nearby. I was just about to call Tyson to see if he had discovered anything when Breno came in. “Boss, we got a potential on the vic. According to the vine, his buddy limped into Nogales a few hours ago. Claiming some she devil attacked them while they were scouting. Said she was coming for his boss. He’s freaking out that she’ll come for him still since he left his buddy not he land after she warned him to remove it.” I let the words rattle around in my brain while I grabbed a bottle of water before I turned back to Breno> So the dead body wasn’t a warning to Tyson other than letting him know he was being watched then you think?

<Breno nodded, “That’s what it sounds like. Which means the Nogales clan is looking into that territory as well as the gang outta SoCal. What’s the plan?” I let out a sigh and shook my head.> The plan is we head to Tyson’s and we figure this shit out. Get the heli ready and I’ll message him to let him know we are on our way.

<Breno took off and I pulled out my phone, sending a quick message to Henrique and Julian and then one to Tyson ~Got some information, on my way to you now. Watch your back~ I hit send and tucked my phone in my pocket before jogging out to the landing pad where Breno was waiting. We’d be there in a little over an hour and then we needed to figure out a plan of attack.>

Ty- -admittedly I was worried. Not just for the wolves here but for their families. None of us needed any of this happening right now and with the land security just being finished I wasn’t secure enough here. I wondered if we needed more wolves and if I needed to call some of my father’s old friends here to maybe help out with everything that was going on. None of it made sense. I knew that Javier and his family had people out watching them trying to take over what they were doing but this was shit right here at my property. I mentioned to the other wolves that they might think of sending their wives and girlfriends away until things calmed down here but no one seemed interested in any of it. All they kept saying was that if there was trouble here the woman would want to be here to take care of the land too. Thankfully the women here were all wolves. It wasn’t the same in current time on this property. There were more wolves than anything else but there were humans and vampires on the property too. I was glad that we had not made the transition on the property yet at this time. I was talking with one of the wolves about the small part of the property that was still waiting for the fencing to be finished off and about the metal gate that would be installed at the front of the property with cameras when my phone went off. Looking down at my phone seeing the text from Javier. I sighed and put my phone down- He’ll be here soon to talk. Get the other wolves to my house. We’re going to need to take care of all this mess with Javier.

Javi- <While in the air, I sent messages to several of my Captains telling them tributes were still due despite the meetings being canceled. They were giving instructions as to where and when to deliver them which was also a test of their loyalty right now. So far Tyson’s was the only territory that was having issues and I was growing less and less certain of who could be trusted. I did have extra eyes on my territories, including those closest to the borders and so far it had all been quiet. I wasn’t confident it would stay that way though, that was a magnet for trouble. Breno came over the intercom to tell me we were approaching Tyler and to prepare for landing. I glanced out the window and saw the pickup truck with Henrique behind the wheel waiting at the gate. We left the makeshift airport, Tyler wasn’t exactly bustling enough to have one but one of the landowners on the edge of town had no problems letting us use his property for a fair rate, and heading towards Tyson’s in silence. I wasn’t going to repeat myself and I knew Breno could fill Henrique in on the intricacies later. We pulled through the gates to the land and the truck pulled around to Tyson’s home where I was told he would be waiting. I walked up to the front door, Breno and Henrique behind me, and knocked>

Ty- -I could smell Javier when he pulled up to the property but, I didn’t have the energy anymore to meet him outside like I would normally. When I heard the footsteps up the doorway and the knock I called out loudly from my kitchen- Come in -I took a long drink from the beer I had been drinking as I looked out over the back of the property from my island. The past few weeks had been exhausting with the wolves and bodies chopped up. I couldn’t help but wonder if this was a mistake. I had always wondered what would have happened had I done this when I was living in my time and now I knew. Everything in me told me that it was going to be better than this but was this what I was avoiding when I turned Javier down the first time. Should I have just left well enough alone? Something had sent me back to this time for a redo and I knew that but I couldn’t help but wonder what other bullshit I was going to end up dragging all the wolves through. I decided I needed to try to find a witch or someone that could help me figure out what it was that I’m back in this time for.- 

Javi- <After I heard Tyson’s voice, I let myself in, Breno and Henrique on my heels as I walked towards the kitchen which seemed to be the standard meeting place around here. The tension and stress from the last few days and weeks showed clearly on Tyson’s face. I didn’t relish telling him what was going on, but it was necessary. What was happening was probably inevitable given the location and the desirability of the land, but I wondered if my presence sped up the issue or if the timing was going to happen regardless. The benefit was I was involved so these two factions wouldn’t be able to steamroll over the wolves. I sighed as I stepped up to the island> Tyson, one of these days we will meet under better circumstances. Before I tell you what we found, has there been any more trouble?

Ty- -laying my beer down I took a deep breath. I realized just how tired I must have looked and sounded. There was too much laying on my mind right now- Not that I’m aware of. But, a dismembered body is actually enough for my taste. What’s going on? -I looked at Javier while he spoke to me. I guess it was the first time I really looked at him. He looked just as tired as I did. What was happening around here? Was this all because of him? Because of the drugs? Because of us? I never needed my father in my life but right now I needed him to tell me if this was shit they were dealing with too or if this was my issue to deal with.-

Javi - <I let out a slow breath at the news there hadn’t been any other troubles. That was something at least. Even if he did have a point about the body, though that was, well that was still troubling even if it was done in some obscene form of protection or warning. I still wasn’t sure how to take that one. I settled a hand on the island and faced Tyson> I am glad to hear that nothing else has happened. Based on the information we’re hearing, this seems to be a misguided attempt to make a land grab here. 

<I motioned to my men> The dismemberment wasn’t a message to you it seems, at least not in a direct way though it did warn us to potential problems that could come. This territory, it is highly coveted. That’s the problem it seems we are running into. The question that we need to ask is what do we need to do to defend it?

Ty- -scrubbing my hand down my face as Javier spoke. My property… they wanted my land? Fuck. What else was going to happen?- I have a bunker built on the back of the property for the women and the children. The wolves are doing double runs right now. They sleep then they run. They’re all taking shifts and I am too. We’re still running your drugs like normal to hopefully keep the money coming in like it should. But those of us that own other businesses in town are having to take a couple days and make sure we’re seen around town so that no one gets suspicious. Especially the cops in town. No one needs them sniffing around here any more than they already do. The fence is close to being done. The men out there say they’re pushing to be done by the end of the week. I’m not really sure at this point what else we should be doing. I have your men watching as well. I don’t know how this one man wasn’t found and I don’t know where he belongs but we burned his body and disposed of the remains after. What do you think? -I was honestly at a loss for what else we could do. The wolves are around here as much as they possibly can be. Even their females are taking watch shifts.-

Javi-<I nodded slowly as I listened to Tyson speak. The bases were covered but I wasn’t sure it was enough. This needed to be nipped in the bud and quickly.> From what we’ve gathered, that man belongs to a cartel out of Nogales.We can only assume whoever killed him and sent the message back to the cartel had been tracking him and it was pure chance they found him on your property. It does not appear they were able to gather much information, especially as his partner is barely able to form complete sentences other than the warning he was sent back with. I think…

<I paused and took a slow breath because what I felt we needed to do was not what I wanted to do, but I could think of no other options. I let out the breath and steeled my features to show my confidence> I think we need to be proactive rather than reactive now. We need to head them off, lead them away from your land and then attack or get the two fighting cartel to attack each other first and then we, meaning my men and whoever else wants to participate, will take the rest out. 

<I gave a slight nod. I knew that if we can get them away from here and focus their attention elsewhere that would be in the best interest of the wolves. It went beyond drugs when there were this many innocent lives at stake>

Ty- -I sat for a long time silent, thinking. I heard Javier say we needed to basically go to war with this other Cartel but for some reason it wasn’t forming anything in my mind other than us doing whatever it was that Javier felt like we needed to do. I mean he had been in this business so much longer than I had at this point and no matter how much older or wiser I actually was than Javier, I never had any experience with this. None of my father's wolves stayed or warned me of anything. I hadn’t even had any idea to ask them before they left. I thought long and hard about what he was saying needed to be done and I nodded looking to the property where the wolves were starting to gather- I guess that’s what needs to be done. We’ll have to take the fight to them. I’m not worried about the wolves as we’ll hang back. I’m sure we’ll be a surprise to the Cartel. I’m sure they’re not expecting dogs at their front door. But, once we do this. Do you think we’ll be safe? We’ll need to make sure the wolves know that ending this now will make the future safer for their families. -I sighed and watched the wolves for a minute. Once we finished this with that Cartel I was going to have to find someone to help me figure out how I can bridge this time and the future where I should actually be so that maybe I can get back to my time.-

[thatssirrosi]

Problem’s on the front lines

<Breno and Henrique sat before me, the evidence piled before them. I lifted one of the pictures from the pile and studied it carefully. My lips curled into a frown and I lifted my gaze to my men. They looked pissed off and nervous. An edge I hadn’t seen on either in a long time. They have been working tirelessly with the wolves Tyson had sent over as well as the men we had over on his land. Guesses and speculation fueling most of the investigating but now, now we had further proof that a small little wanna be cartel had decided they wanted to move this way and Julien’s brother was leading the charge. He was going after areas where they had recently had changes in position or newer to my organization, obviously thinking that meant they would not be loyal to me. Perhaps because he never understood the concept of loyalty or family. He was hellbent on getting the wolves especially and I wasn’t sure why. Sure the territory was profitable but I had others that earned me more. Tyson’s men had nothing to add about the value of the property or the town itself as far as why it would be so valuable to outsiders. Either way it meant that I would need to speak with Tyson about this threat further so that he would be prepared. Then I told Breno and Henrique to prepare for war because we were going to stop them in their tracks and make them regret even attempting to take over that territory. I reached for my phone when it started dancing on my desk. I read the desk and felt my frown deepening. Tyson never contacted me without reason, but I certainly did not appreciate him attempting to give ME orders. He may order his wolves around but he needed to understand that I did not work for him. I had done everything to help without question but this was over the line. My fingers flew over the keyboard in reply ~You will show some respect, Tyson. I do not take orders from you. You either call me with the problem or you can wait tell Henrique when he arrives in a few hours.~ I set my phone down and my guards on the other side of the desk. They knew better than to speak just yet. I pushed back from my desk and stood, smoothing down my jacket and slacks> Henrique, head over to Tyson’s and see what the fuss is about. You can also fill him in on what we discovered. If he tries to demand anything again, this arrangement is finished. Understood?

<Henrique blinked and glanced at Breno for a moment before he turned back to me, “Something happen, boss? I thought you were making the trip with me.” I arched a brow at him and he wisely averted his gaze, “Apologies, boss. It’s just I was confused is all.” I gave a single shake of my head> This is why I have you, to handle things for me, correct? Tyson is making demands and as worked up as he is, that is unacceptable. This is not a punishment or slight. It is how business is done. You can explain that to him as well. While you are there filling him in on what you and Breno discovered, Breno and I will be making a little visit south to shore up some other matters, which should only take a few hours, and then if necessary, we will head out towards Tyson’s. 

<I dismissed Henrique and then Breno and I headed towards the landing pad. By the time we flew to the location and finished up business, Henrique would be at Tyson’s and hopefully getting a handle on the situation. Plus he needed to scout out a landing area for us. I was no longer going to be spending 12 hours traveling there and back now that the helicopter was back from servicing. I didn’t care if Tyson thought it would kick up a fuss. I would land a town over and arrive to the land by car but this was far more efficient. I buckled in and put on my earphones, keying the mike up so I could talk to the pilot. Once we were in air, I gave him the destination and then sat back. Breno was nervous, but I wasn’t sure if it was the flight or the fact we sent Henrique on his own. Either way it was time for my men to remember that I was the one in charge. 

An hour later we landed and my associate was waiting for us. I nodded and lifted a hand in greeting as we got closer, “Sir Rossi, it’s a pleasure as always. Breno, nice to see you as well. I had them set us up in the conference room to save time, I hope that will be ok?” I nodded toward Breno to have him scout the location as I turned to our host> Providing security is in place, I believe we can accomplish everything we need here, Hector. 

<Breno came back a few moments later and gave the all clear. We were lead into an empty conference room with a typical 12 person table that held two very large duffel bags. Breno stepped over with Hector and opened the bags to reveal the cash that lay inside. It was apparently a good month for this little territory. Hector motioned for us to have a seat and offered drinks which we both refused. I wasn’t here for pleasantries. He frowned slightly and then began. Two of his men were assaulted by a rival gang and a threat had been left for me with them. I passed the message to Breno and grumbled> This ends now. Hector, do not send your men out alone on runs and always make sure one is armed if possible. I will send my own message and there will be no middle men when I do. Let me know if you have further issues. 

<I pushed back from the table and indicated to Breno to grab the bags. We were halfway to the door when Hector stopped us. “Sir Rossi, if…you should know that I will not betray you, nor will my men. We have a good arrangement and no matter what is offered it will not make a difference to us. No one here will be disloyal, I promise it to you.” I nodded and then shook his hand> I trust you, Hector. We will get this taken care of and you will not have to worry. 

<I don’t know if what I said reassured him I believed him or not, but I could see the relief on his shoulders. When we made it back to the helicopter I told Breno to check into Hector’s men. There was something he wasn’t telling me and that would not slide. Now though, it was time to see if the other problem had been resolved.>

[thatssirrosi]

Protection Details w/@InkedSoul_

Javi: <It had taken a few days to clean up the property and remove evidence of what had happened. Heads were about to roll for daring threaten me on my own land. Things were falling into place. I was not one to act irrationally. Everything had to be carefully planned before I would move forward. Especially in this situation. There were too many innocent people around for it o go any other way. Now though, it was time to head to Tyson’s and finalize the arrangements we’d made for his land and the exchange of protection. Breno, Henrique, Julian, Michael, and Geoff were all coming with me. It was a good thing we had the three row SUV, which I made sure Breno and Henrique had ‘roughed up’ so it wouldn’t look so out of place as we rolled through town. Tyson was so adamant about that, it had made me laugh even if I could understand his point. It wasn’t as though the locals were not very well aware of what was going on. I’d almost pay to see them try to start shit about it though. We were doing the meeting at Tyson’s because I wanted Geoff to get started on the property and my hope was before we left, the crew would already be in place planning. Henrique pulled in to the compound about an hour or so later and we all piled out of the vehicle. I swore we looked like one of those damn clown cars. Clutching my hot lemon water, I led the path up to the meeting hall. Breno hated when I did that but damned if I was going to not show who was in charge of the damn operation. Besides, I was pretty certain I wasn’t going to get shot at on Tyson’s property. I gave the door a quick knock, then pushed it open to let myself in. Tyson was already there waiting with a few of his wolves. I gave them each a slight nod of greeting and then stopped in front of Tyson.> Evening, Tyson. If there’s no new trouble to report, are you ready to get started? 

Tyson: -Getting home hadn’t taken as long as I thought it would. I was healed but when I got close to the property I could hear the other wolves howling, they could tell I had gotten into trouble. By the time I’d gotten to my house, they were all there waiting for me like I knew they would be. I had delivered the package and come straight back here so I knew I looked like shit. I explained what had happened and that Javi and a couple of his men would be here to talk about some planning for some better security and the wall and stuff that we’d already agreed on. I didn’t mention anything yet about possibly moving a couple wolves there for a while because I wasn’t sure which wolves would agree to it. I knew none of the wolves with families would go, but there were a couple wolves with no real ties here. I had a feeling they would likely volunteer to go when it was put on the table. I knew that when Javi got here we would all be talking and for once I was going to suggest the wolves be in on the discussion. I knew Javi was used to it just being him and I talking about stuff but with this big of a decision I wanted them to know they were able to make their own decisions without me making it for them. I told them to decide who was doing the run tonight and patrols and the rest of them needed to stay. I let things be quiet around the property for a few days after I had gotten home and promised the wolves that the next time I decided to do a run I would take someone with me. Dinner was finishing up and the wolves were talking about having a patrol all together and about that time I could smell Javi and his men hit the property line. I walked towards the door when I heard Javi’s foot steps and waved when he came in.- No trouble my way back. Package was delivered. Wolves know what happened, nothing else has been discussed. 

Javi: <I gave a curt nod at Tyson’s words. I liked he didn’t mess around with idle chit chat, it saved us both time and energy better used for business. I gave a quick glance around the room as me and my men filed in. This would be the first time it was a full house and something told me it wasn’t the last either. I did a quick round of introductions with the men I’d brought with me, focusing more on Geoff as the contractor and then Julian and Michael as my eyes and ears essentially. I took a seat and watched the wolves watching us. It was apparent a few weren’t pleased with the thoughts of outsiders but that they respected Tyson enough to trust him.> I know Tyson has filled you in, but I want to reaffirm the situation. We are not coming in to try to take over or change anything. As soon as the wall construction is done, Geoff and his crew will leave. That should help eliminate outsiders trying to come on your land. We discussed swapping out a few members from each of our stations as a way to help each other. My men don’t have the skills you do just like my men have some skills you don’t. Now, Geoff is here to go over planning and he’ll be at your disposal if you have questions for him. Tyson, are you okay with the two guys coming here?

Tyson: -I sat down near the wolves showing them that everything was ok and not to worry. Javier made himself and his men known and thankfully the wolves were friendly and accepting. I knew there were going to be some changes and they knew some of them but not all of them and that was ok. I trusted Javier and his men and I knew that the more the wolves got to know them they would trust his men as well.- Yes. The wolves and I have decided that one of the large houses towards the back of the property near the lake and where the bunker will go is one of the houses and the other is this house across from my house towards the left, it’s smaller but I think it’ll do well for one of your men and he’ll be close to my house in case of an emergency. -nodding and pointing towards where the house is- If you want when we’re done I can give you guys the keys and you can make your choices. I trust that you have places for two of my wolves to return home with you. @BrandedInsanity and @FuckedNWrecked have agreed to relocate to your place. -standing up crossing my arms looking across the wolves- They’re my oldest friends and my strongest protection on the property. They’re the best at security detail and my best shots. I know that they’re going to fit in the best with you. The planning with Geoff, I assume, you’ll be doing with me and him? -looking to Javier-

Javi: <I listened carefully to Tyson and glanced at Julian and Michael to see if they were okay with the arrangement. They were quiet for a moment before Julian leaned in to whisper, “We don’t mind bunking up, boss. Don’t wanna put nobody out.” My eyes darted towards Tyson and back> Discuss it with Tyson, it’s his property and his rules. I have places set up for both your men. The upper level of the garage is split into open floor plan apartments. I don’t have space for individual houses for my men but no one has complained yet. They are spacious and sound proof for extracurricular activities, then the woods and property are open for exploration. If those arrangements do not work for you, I can set you up nearby but it will not be as close, obviously. 

<I glanced towards Tyson’s men to see if this would be an issue or not. It wasn’t the same as wolves, I kept my men closer and we didn’t need the space as a wolf might.> If you’d like my assistance with planning then yes, it will include the three of us, which would give the others time to get acquainted before we take our leave. 

Tyson: -nodding as I listened. Both Justin and Tanner nodded in agreeance that it would be plenty of room for them- I’m sure it will be enough room and I’m sure they would prefer to be close to you and the other men. I only have extra houses because this is a compound and always has been. My father’s pack was large and when he passed most of the older wolves left and abandoned their houses so they’re empty. If Julian and Michael would prefer to be closer to the house or in my house I have extra rooms -pointing upstairs- The only rules here are simple, I tattoo humans here in my studio for competitions so they’re in and out. None of them know what’s happening here on this property just that my family and I live here. I’ll expect that it’ll stay that way. No guns out in the open for any of them to see obviously. -I looked around at the wolves who were all used to the rules and the humans coming and going from my studio. Javier’s men didn’t seem phased- If anyone asks you’re my cousins looking to relocate here and you’re staying with me until you decide and find a place to purchase. I’m actually buying some property not far from here to turn into a business I think. We’ll use that property to cover your staying here up just in case anyone asks. As long as everyone’s ok with that?

Javi:<I nodded slowly once more as I listened. It made sense. There did seem to be far more houses than wolves. At least those I met. I simply figured they were hiding from the strangers, which I wouldn’t blame them for either. Julian spoke before I had a chance, “We can bunk in the house closer to the main building if that’s alright with you. That way we’re close enough and still not taking up too much space.” I shook my head and let out a soft laugh. I knew there was more to the story, Michael wanted to watch over Julian in case his brother showed his face, Julian wanted Michael around for the same reason but more so it was because he wanted to prove himself. This way there could be no distrust or deception.> Some of my men have grown very used to always having someone nearby. We try to work in teams for protection. 

<As soon as Tyson mentioned tattoos, I saw Michael’s eyes widen as his smile grew. They’d both be in Tyson’s chair before long if either had a say about it.> They are used to concealed carrying but they will always be armed, there’s no going around that. Neither will pull their weapon without reason though. Discretion has always been our method of survival. As for your plan, that sounds plausible and easy enough that if anyone were to ask, the men should be able to remember. Justin and Tanner will not have to worry about that as such. They can simply say they are new associates should anyone ask. While my core team has been with me for years, it’s not unheard of for me to take on new employees and train them up. Some stay, others go out to other families. Are we ready to start planning then? 

Tyson: -I nodded and cleared my throat before telling the wolves they were free to leave. I stopped Tanner and Justin to go home and pack and asked the other wolves to show Julian and Michael to the nearest empty house to mine and to give them the keys before turning to look at Javier.- You’ll need to carry Justin and Tanner’s things with you. I’m sure they’ll want to run and not ride. -I watched as everyone spread out to where they needed to be which just left a couple of Javier’s men, Javier and I.- We can go into my studio, it’s sound proof in there and quiet. We’ll be able to watch the property and talk without interruptions about the plans for the property and the wall that’s going to be built. -Motioning towards my studio leading Javier and Geoff into the room. I knew that we’d need to get all the plans laid out and a count of how many men were going to be here with him and a list of names so that the wolves and Javier’s men would know who was coming and who was going. Things were progressing perfectly-

[thatssirrosi]

Shots Fired (W/ @InkedSoul_)

Javi : <I stared at my Second, my bodyguard, one of my oldest friends and waited patiently for him to spit out what he wanted to say. I was still sporting the black eye, albeit fading now, that he left me when he was last in my presence. He knew then that was a one time opportunity. I had been expecting it after the news I delivered. Anything further however, would result in a much different outcome than what I hoped either of us wanted. Breno scrubbed his hand through his hair, but his gaze never wavered. Henrique stood at the door and watched us both. I quirked a brow up and inclined my head slightly, indicating shit needed to get moving. He let out a low puff of air and his shoulders slumped slightly, “Javier, I need to apologize for my actions. I won’t apologize for being angry or hurt by yours but I never should have let my anger overtake me like that. Thank you for being honest and thank you for letting me get my anger out. I know without your permission, things would have gone a lot differently.”  I nodded slowly and lifted my glass, tipping it in his direction.>Water under the bridge now, Breno. Now I want you to use that information and that anger and help take them down. After that…

<My words were cut off by angry shouting coming from the front of the house. Henrique drew his gun and ran from the room, Breno following behind after checking for my go ahead. I had pushed back from the chair and grabbed my own gun from the drawer. I had no doubts my men could handle the situation but I would rather fight by their side than to hide like some coward. There was chaos and panic the closer I made it to the front entrance. I heard words parsed through the air, gunshots, dead body, fence deactivated. My blood chilled more though when I heard Henrique shouting for assistance. “It’s Campbell. Move your asses.” My men were like me when it came to knowing our dealers and because of the shit going on at Tyson’s property, several have been spending time there getting to know the group involved. As soon as they heard it was him, they took charge and before long, they were carrying the kid in to the small room we had set up in the front of the house for situations such as this. It was clean and sterile and the doc would be arriving as soon as he could. I ordered those now looking for something to do to secure the property line and find out what happened then holstered my weapon and joined Breno, Henrique, and our medic Paul in the small room. Tyson didn’t look great but I held no doubts it could have been far worse. The medic started to clean him, looking for the wound while I moved up near the head of the bed> Care to explain?

Tyson: -Holding my hand to my side where the bullet entered, not to keep myself from bleeding but more to keep the wound open. I didn’t want a bullet in me and I sure didn’t want to have to have someone cut me open to get it out later. I walked the best I could through the gate and up to the house, groaning when I finally got noticed and Javier’s men had helped me inside with all the people running around me quietly I’m sure trying to figure out what happened and get things cleaned up. I grumbled in annoyance when they took me into a room that looked sterile but I didn’t see any medical personnel and Javier was already questioning me. Sighing loudly- Man, I was just doing a run. The box is by the tree next to the dead man. I was going to stop and talk to you about the wolves agreeing to the bunker on the property and where we all agreed for it to go. But, when I ran up I smelled a human that was… nervous. I watched him for a few minutes and you guys hadn’t noticed he was here. 

-I stuck my finger into the bullet hole to keep it open, growling loudly- When I saw him reach for his gun I lunged.. He shot, I killed him. He was going to shoot one of your men or you I couldn’t tell who he was looking at. Stupid fuck. I can’t wait for a doctor Javier, my skin is healing with the bullet in me. I need you to pull it out for me. 

-pointing around the room realizing that I’d just blurted all that out without any warning and I was sure I looked crazy as fuck. Javier knew we were wolves but I was sure he had no idea what was special about any of us or me for that matter. I looked at his face to try to read him.- Or anyone that knows what they’re doing -clearing my throat- I don’t want to have to have surgery later. 

Javier - <My eyes narrowed as Tyson spoke. They were either getting brave or stupid. I lifted my gaze and communicated silently with Breno who didn’t even hesitate before bolting from the room to handle the situation outside. Anger boiled beneath the surface at the fact that my property had been breached and tampered with, though I knew it would be handled. As for my men not noticing the intrusion, that would be handled with privately as well. I couldn���t stop the chuckle at Tyson’s demand of me removing the bullet and I shook my head as I laid a hand on Paul’s shoulder> Trust me, Tyson. The last thing you want is me coming at you with a sharp implement. Paul will remove the bullet, the doctor is on his way to double check there is nothing else going on, standard procedure. 

<I lifted my gaze to his and gave the slightest shake of my head as my eyes darted to Paul and back. Breno and Henrique knew the truth, as did the few others who’d been monitoring the property, but none of my extended staff knew the details. We’d learned that wolves could heal quicker than humans but to what extent I had no clue. Either way, I knew it was imperative to act now and question later. Paul was moving around the room, gathering the equipment he needed and I settled against the wall and out of the way> Thank you for handling the situation, Tyson. I’ll get answers and then handle the rest. I’m glad you’ve agreed to the bunker, as you know, security can never be too tight. 

Tyson: -I nodded and moved my hand as I watched the man Javier called Paul gather everything he needed. I moved my hand out of the way and laid flat on the table that I was leaned up against. I helped him shove the scalpel in the direction the bullet was knowing I’d have to break skin again. I clenched my jaw and tried to distract my mind from the pain- Obviously you’re being watched and my property is too. I can’t help but wonder if this is actually a problem you brought to my door. I have to do what I can to keep my people safe. You should probably wear a bullet proof vest. I’m afraid that someone would be dead had I not taken this run myself to reach out to you. I know we’re only business associates but, i would hate to see anything happen to you that could be avoided. 

-grunting when I feel Paul pull these bullet out and drop it into something metal close to me. Hearing the metal clink together I noticed that he was working quickly to bandage me up. I sat up and held the gauze to my side and swallowed thickly- Do you have a lot of problems with people trying to kill you that I should know about? Do I need to look into a bullet and bomb proof shelter? Panic rooms maybe?

-I was half joking and half being completely serious. What had I gotten us into? I didn’t remember my father having anything like this happening when they were running drugs before. I was really starting to question my luck lately- I know this is no joking matter but do I need to send a couple wolves here? They would be able to smell a human approaching quicker than your men would be able to see them to realize they were there. 

Javi: <I watched Paul’s eyes widen and Breno bite back a chuckle at the slew of questions and comments pouring from Tyson’s mouth. Most others we dealt with were too afraid to question me about anything. This is where Tyson differed from them all, why I knew that if we all played our cards right, this partnership would be quite lucrative for everyone involved. I shrugged a shoulder and my lip curled up in one corner> Many people want me dead, Tyson. They think they will be able to simply take all that I have. Normally they don’t come near my property though. That was sloppy. 

<I passed over a bottle of water from the mini fridge and shook my head> The fencing and bunker should be enough. I think they are watching you to try to take over the territory from me, harming you or your people would be counterintuitive for them. 

<I snorted at the look on Paul’s face at the mention of wolves and waited until he was finished with Tyson before sending him out of the room with an order to keep everything that happened in the room quiet for now, then returned my attention to Tyson> If you feel that would be wise, I wouldn’t turn the offer down. Since we have men at your compound, it would balance the scales. Other than this situation, have you had any other troubles I need to be aware of?

Tyson: -shaking my head as I check under the gauze and see that my skin was already closing. I pulled the gauze off and threw it in the nearest trash can looking around the room for clothes to put on and settling for the scrubs that sat on a shelf in the room. Sliding the pants on I started talking again- Sorry, I’ve never been involved in anything like this before. I haven’t ever had anyone watching me to kill me or anyone I know. I mean… I’ve been in some stupid shit before but nothing like this. When I get home I’ll make sure that the wolves work out who can come and start running patrols here as well. With someone out there as brazen as this guy was thinking he could just sit in a tree watch and kill people who knows what else is being planned for you, or worse for the wolves. Things have actually been quiet at my place which is good because it frees us up some. I have some younger wolves that are single and don’t really have ties anywhere that would make for good runners here. They won’t be in a rush to come back home like the others. Did someone get the package? Who was the man I killed?

-My adrenaline was still flowing pretty good and I couldn’t sit still and realized I was pacing and rambling- Sorry. It’s been a while since I’ve had to do anything aggressive. I usually don’t get involved in anything like this. I’m not sure how you handle this all the time. 

Javier: <I’m sure my eyes flashed a look of surprise when Tyson was flipping the gauze into the trash and the skin was remarkably free of any lingering evidence. If I hadn’t seen the bullet hole with my own eyes I would have thought he was pulling something for attention. I averted my gaze just before the strip show started  and arched a brow when I saw Breno’s gaze linger a moment longer than it had reason to.I let out a low sigh, even as Tyson spoke> If this is too much for you to handle, we can dissolve our partnership now before any more hardships land at your feet. There is no need for you to risk your people, Tyson. We could…

<I shook my head and then held up a finger to pause my thought as I walked to the door to talk with Henrique who had just popped his head in. They were getting rid of the body, the packaged had been secured and put up but he had something he wanted me to see. He popped open the bifold wallet that was empty save for two slips of paper. No ID, and there had been none on his body either, just a card and a photo. The photo was a nice tight shot of me sitting on my bed one night watching something on my computer screen. There was a set of crosshairs hand drawn in just between my eyebrows where they creased in concentration. I rolled my eyes at the unoriginality of it all, trying not to show that I was phased in the slightest at just HOW that image was taken. I pulled out the sheet of paper with my name on it and unfolded it carefully, my gaze carefully snagging on the key words. I let out another slow breath before I turned to the pacing wolf in the room> The man you killed is of no consequence. He was a dead man before he set foot on the property, I am only sorry you had to be the one to end him. I wouldn’t want that on your conscious, Tyson. Again, if this will be too much for you, we can work out other arrangements. I will still assist in securing your compound as that was already promised, how much further we go I will leave up to you to decide.

Tyson: -I took a deep breath realizing I was way too hyped up for what was happening right now. I could feel the wolf in my mind sprawling out and relaxing as I steadied my breathing. I could feel Javier’s man Breno’s eyes on my body when I put on the clothes that I’d found. I didn’t care but it was kind of curious. I took another deep breath as I watched Javier interact with the man that had walked in with a wallet. I could smell the blood in the air of the man I killed and I was half proud of myself. I’d protected Javier and the people here from who knows what would have happened. I could smell the worry on Javier as he looked at the wallet and its contents.- I’m not worried about having to kill someone to keep you and your people here safe, Javier. I’m more worried about how long he’d been watching you undetected. But, I think sending some wolves here will resolve that issue. If you’ll just make room for them here with you so that if they decide to stay they feel welcome. I’m not interested in breaking any business agreements that we have because they’re far too profitable and we would all lose out on money that are doing good for the people we all care about. We’ll go as far as you and I decide we need to. If there’s more that needs to be done we’ll figure it out along the way. I guess I need to stop burying my head in the sand and maybe do more patrolling myself. Maybe get my wolves some more combat training since you’re putting a target on all of us

-I start chuckling- I guess we’re extended family now. You owe me one since I saved your life -beaming big- 

Javier  - <I couldn’t stop the low chuckle at the grin and Tyson’s words. He was cocky and his confidence had seemed to grow with each of our interactions. Having wolves on our side would definitely be advantageous. I would feel better when I had to travel to the other territories knowing there was extra eyes on my men. I motioned for Henrique to join the three of us in the room, the closed the door> When you figure out which wolves you can spare, we will make sure there is a place for them to stay. We’ll offer the same arrangement you have for my men on your land. Henrique and Breno can assist with training as there are no others I trust as much as these two. Since you’re here, we can also discuss the rest of the plans for your property. I have a feeling it’s going to be a long night, so I hope you have no other plans.

<As I spoke, Henrique slipped out and then returned with my laptop and files, Breno had cleared off the bloodstained table and soon we were getting down to business.>

[thatssirrosi]

Decisions

<By the time I arrived home after my meeting with Tyson, Breno, Henrique, and my contractor were waiting. I dropped my leather jacket on the rack and made my way to the bar. I grabbed a glass tumbler and dropped a few cubes of ice in before pouring a sparkling water, topped off with a lemon. After taking a nice slow sip, I turned my attention to the three men sitting in my living room.> Gentlemen, we need to get started on this sooner rather than later. Geoff, I will arrange a meeting for you and Tyson as soon as possible to go over the actual plans, but we need to get the permits and all that out of the way first. The mayor has been sniffing around, which presents problems for all of us, I want him taken care of. 

<Breno’s brow shot up and I gave a slight nod. He smirked and tipped back his own drink, “I’ll arrange a meeting with him and feel him out.” Henrique chuckled low at that then cleared his throat, “We met up with Michael and Julian while you were meeting with Tyson. They confirmed that there’s a new player in town and that Cale is leading the charge. He’s trying to get in with the Cabella cartel out of SoCal.” I sighed heavily as I sat down in my overstuffed leather chair opposite the couch the three were on and then waited for more details. Geoff settled in with his drink and listened as well. He may only be a contractor on the outside, but it was a multi-faceted position when it came to Geoff. There was a reason he was in the circle for this conversation. He needed to know what he and his men would be facing when they were working on the property, but he also needed to be prepared to pick up the fight if it came down to it. I listened carefully and before long we were starting to formulate a plan. I wanted to take the fight away from the wolves if I could. Not only because they were making me a pretty penny, but also because they were a family of sorts, many of them innocent in the whole thing around them. I was not one who liked to involve innocent people or use them as collateral. It was beneath me to do so. Only cowards would attack those who were not directly involved in the situation, which was something the Cabella’s were known for. 

They were not known for having much in the way of brain power. They usually relied on firepower which, yes, could go far but only for so long. We would plan and not only would we take rid them from this territory, I’d take their territories as well. I was done playing with children. The three men across from me began doing their own planning, for the wall, the men needed, the materials and how to coordinate everything with Tyson. Meanwhile I pushed up from the chair and went to my office. I slid the panel to the side, placed my palm on the screen and waited for the safe to pop open. Inside, I found the file I’d acquired on Cale. I promised Julian I would only use it if I need to, with this threat, it was clear that I needed to. I meant what I had told Tyson. Julian wouldn’t hesitate to end his brother should they come face to face. However, I wanted to avoid that possibility. It would break Julian and he was too great of an asset to me. I gathered those and protected them as much as I could, it was far more beneficial that way. Everyone in my core group had their skills and weaknesses. They performed multiple titles because I didn’t trust all that many to get close to me. Yet, I was going to be trusting Tyson far more than I did others in my territories. There was a protective instinct when it came to him. Not because he’d nearly doubled the cash flow already from that area either. I threw the folder down on my desk along with the damning evidence I had on the thumb drive. I heard Breno let out a low laugh in the other room and I cringed as I glanced back at the file. Breno would understand, eventually. Though he might need some time. Which actually…I could send him to Tyson. He was a good muscle for Ty and he could watch for Cale there. I scrubbed a hand over my face, now to figure out how to break it to him that the person responsible for the death of his fiancé. >

[thatssirrosi]

Trouble on the Horizon.

<“Boss, you wanted to see us?” I raised my gaze from the ledger I was reviewing and waved Henrique, Breno, Michael, and Julian into the office. Each of the four had been taking turns observing the Campbell kid and his pack and I wanted a report before I reached out for a meeting to expand the terms of the contract. I already knew it would happen, I knew it the moment I’d met with the kid. There was something just something about him. Breno, Julian and Henrique took their seats with a confident ease while Michael was a little more apprehensive. It made sense in a way, he was the youngest among my crew. He’d only been part of the upper echelon for about six months after working his way up the ladder for the past several years. It was well known meetings in my office could go one of two ways. The fact he was nervous though had me taking notice. With my employees, I was a fair man until I was crossed. Enemies didn’t even get that far. I leaned back in my chair and crossed a leg over my knee, hands steepled on my stomach. My eyes ran over each man and then I locked my gaze on Michael.> Something on your mind, Michael?

<The blond cleared his throat and I watched the other three shift in their seats. Apparently they were all quite aware of what was going on and only Michael was afraid to bring it up to me. Interesting. Finally he steeled his spine, “The thing is, Mr. Rossi, Sir, we noticed some activity around the place. We were doing what you said, being seen but not observed. Obviously Campbell and his crew knew we were there, as you intended, but we’re fairly certain they don’t know how closely we were watching and…” I raised a brow and leveled him with a stare> Fairly certain, Michael? You either are or you are not. Continue.

<He swallowed hard and nodded once, “As I was saying, we noticed some activity. Others observing the area. Not necessary the ranch or compound or whatever you want to call it, but outsiders who were nosing around. Heard a couple trying to find a place to score, caught one of Campbell’s kids and was chatting him up. I think, I mean that is, the four of us think it might be have been someone from that new crew that’s been trying to expand.” My eyes narrowed and my gaze shot towards Henrique.> Explain to me why I am just now hearing about this Henrique and why you decided to let Michael be the one to break the news. 

<Henrique shrugged and one corner of his lip twitched, “Because he needs to learn, Boss. We talked it over and felt the kid was ready to be more than a silent observer. He’s the one who gleaned on to the fact this asshole was skulking around and trying to weasel into Campbell’s base. Put a chip on the vehicle and everything.” My brow shot up and I turned my attention back to Michael> Is this true?  Please, continue to explain this to me then. I will determine if the others made the right call with this or not. 

<I sat back and let Michael explain, then Henrique and Breno each gave their own detailed accounts of what they had learned. Julian remained silent until every one else had their say then he sat forward, his voice soft, enchanting. This was how he lured people in constantly, he was as quiet as he was deadly though. “Boss, I wanna go back, I’ll keep an eye on the place…” There was something in his demeanor and I asked the others to leave for a moment to give us some privacy. Once we were alone, I canted my head slightly> You know who this is, don’t you? 

<Julian shook his head, “Not for certain, but I think it might be Cale, my brother. He was…” He sighed and I nodded. Cale was a wanna be gangster. He talked a big game but couldn’t follow it up if you gave him a map. That made him dangerous though, he was irrational and impulsive and the fact he was moving in on my turf pissed me right the hell off. Laredo was fragile right now, I needed Campbell secured. I pinched the bridge of my nose and flashed to the time I’d brought Julian under my wing. Cale had thought he was hot shit even back then and because Julian had both the brains and brawn Cale had resorted to blackmail and manipulation to get him to reign him in. It had been a brutal fight taking Cale down then and Julian had spent months recovering emotionally and physically from it. I did not relish putting him in that situation again. Even if he was asking for it. I sat back in thought. Julian sat quietly in expectation before I gave him a nod> Set yourself up on the edge of town, close to Campbell’s property. I can’t afford to let Henrique or Breno go with you long term, but they can help you get situated. You can either bring Michael or…

<I didn’t even get the rest of the sentence out when he was nodding, “Michael will be fine. He knows…I’ve told him my story.” My brow lifted but I left it alone. It was his story to tell after all.> I’ll call Campbell and arrange a meeting. The sooner we secure him, the better. Plus he’ll need to be informed of the potential for trouble. 

<I brought the other three back into the room and explained the change in plans. Henrique and Breno didn’t want to leave me for the week that I gave them to help Julian and Michael set up, but I promised I would be fine. It wasn’t as though they were my only bodyguards but they were the ones I trusted most. It was only a week, what could possibly go wrong?>

[thatssirrosi]

Meeting with @InkedSoul_

Tyson: -I had put on the suit I had brought with me. Grumbling looking at myself in the mirror and kicking myself for not making time to get a better suit to meet with this man before this meeting. I needed to make a good impression and like I knew what I was doing so that he would continue to give my pack his business. I needed this to work for so many different reasons and I needed him to not flip his shit when I told him my father died. Likely he never told anyone that he was sick other than my family and his beta. Hopefully this man wouldn’t try to fucking kill me when I told him. Straightening my tie I looked twice more in the mirror, once to check the suit and once to just stare at my own face. He’d see that we were at least related because I looked like my father so I had that going for me. Grabbing my room key, truck keys, and my wallet before walking out of my room. I gave it one look over wondering again if I was going to live to come back to it. Walking out of the hotel I could feel eyes on me from the elevator all the way out of the door. I stepped up into my truck and drove to the place I had scoped out the night before.- Here we go boys.

Javier: <On the drive to the meet, my Tenientes called and filled me in on the location we were meeting at. The Falcons had seen someone skulking around last night though the person never tried to actually break in, just looking around. I wondered if it was the man I was meeting with, which would show he at least had a small sense of self-preservation if he was trying to get an idea of what he was walking in to. If it wasn’t him, then the Tenientes had orders to call in the Sicarios to handle the matter. I hated meeting at new locations, but sometimes it was a necessity. The cameras were now in place at least. Henrique pulled around back and parked the car. Giving the location a quick once over before he opened my door and I stepped out. I smoothed down my suit jacket, patting the holster tucked under my arm, just in case. I watched as the truck pulled up, eyes narrowing slightly when I noticed a younger than expected man behind the wheel. I canted my head towards my driver/bodyguard> Go and see who that is. Get rid of them if you can before Campbell shows. We don’t need any witnesses if this goes south.

<I then slipped through the back door. I pulled off my sunglasses and let my eyes adjust to the slight dimness in the room. >

Tyson: -pulling up the meeting place, before I even got out of the truck I could smell everyone in the place smelling of alcohol and drugs. This really wasn’t my scene but I needed this job so I had to suck it up and power through. When I parked I saw two men dressed in suits walk towards me. I was prepared for this. I knew they would treat me like an outsider since they all knew my father and not me. Hell I was sure he never even mentioned me. I took a deep breath before getting out of my truck, I tucked my keys in my pocket and put my hands up defensively looking around as I saw a man dressed even better duck into the back door. I didn’t get a good look at him but I saw the expensive suit and his gun catch the sunlight as he got out of his car.- They’re expecting me. I’m Tyson Campbell

Javier: <I watched through the window as my guys approached the man in the truck, all while trying to ignore the overwhelming stench of the buildings previous occupants. Obviously this place needed a deep clean and that should have happened prior to this little meeting, but some things could not be avoided. I would make sure it happened before the next one, that was for certain. This place would make a nice little clubhouse, it had the bones to make it happen. It would all depend on how much time I was going to be spending in this area. I pulled my attention back to the window and watched the three men converse. Henrique glanced back towards me and gave me the signal that the truck guy was not only legit, but who we were expecting. I waited a brief moment, then gave a slight nod and waved him on with two fingers in the window. The windows were too dirty to read lips but I could almost feel the nervous apprehension from the kid. I couldn’t wait to hear this story as to why he was here rather than the man I had been told I was meeting with.>

Tyson: -I cleared my throat and smoothed my jacket out as I followed the men into the building. It was a smaller place but it looked fairly nice inside, I was a little impressed. The men made no facial gestures when they talked it was direct and short which I guess I should have been prepared for. They were likely security for the man I was meeting. I did my best to stay as calm as possible. Had anyone here been a wolf though they would have heard my heart thumping from 10 miles away. I followed closely behind and observe as much as I could rather than try and break the tension. I knew they were leading me to the man but I was more curious if he and I would be alone in a room or out where everyone could see us. I wanted to ask but when the man looked back at me it seemed like he was warning me not to move or breathe out of place or he’d likely kill me. Normally I would be a smart ass and grin or wave but something told me if I did I wouldn’t be walking out of here. As we walked up to the man I was here to see the other two men stiffened up. I stuck out my hand to be as friendly as possible- Hi, I’m Tyson. 

Javier: <When they approached the building, I moved from the window and walked over to the small alcove where I requested a fresh bottle of water, then waited. As they walked in, Henrique glanced at me and gave me a slight nod, telling me the kid was on the up and up, which was good. I really wasn’t in the mood for bloodshed just yet. Henrique had a way of vetting people with only a few words needing to be spoken, it was why he was my right hand man for so many years. The kid stuck out his hand and while he seemed a bit nervous, he showed no fear. It was an admirable trait and one I didn’t see often. Most kowtowed to me, waiting for me to acknowledge them before they would even utter a sound. I stuck out my hand and shook his> You’re not who I was expecting. Care to take a seat and explain? 

<It wasn’t a question as much as it was an order. I was already walking to the small tall table off in the corner and watched as Henrique and Breno moved to watch the doors, giving the slightest appearance of privacy.>

Tyson: -He has a decent handshake which my grandfather always told me was the sign of a good man. He was dressed nice and well kept, obviously he cared about how he looked to other people. His men seemed loyal, the big one looked like he would take a bullet for him which meant he treated his people good that worked for him. This place we met really needed some work inside. He didn’t fit in here.. hell none of these men looked like they belonged here which was probably drawing more attention than they’d like. When his men moved to stand guard that’s when it all felt real. This wasn’t a normal business meeting. I was talking with a dangerous drug dealer asking him for business and they were trying to keep him from being shot or something. The thought was sobering of what I had become. When he spoke and started walking to the small table I followed but i threw me out of a lost moment. I’m sure I looked dumb as fuck. Clearing my throat- Oh. Uh… -sitting down at the table with him- Yeah you were likely going to meet my father. He passed away a couple of weeks ago. I found out he hadn’t told anyone he was sick so it was sort of a surprise for people who didn’t live on property with the family. Sorry about that.

Javier: <I cracked open my ever present bottle water and took a sip as I watched him carefully. His nerves almost seemed to get the best of him but somehow he found himself again. I nodded slowly at the explanation and furrowed my brows. A few weeks would explain some of the disturbances in the distribution. Though that was something Valereo and Enric should have been aware of. Something I should have been aware of. I offered a small frown when the weight of his words sunk in though, because this was about more than my operation.> I am sorry to hear about your loss. 

<I took another sip and thought about the predicament this put the area in. I lifted my gaze to his once more and lowered my voice just a touch> You know who I am and what I do, I am assuming you’re here to find out if the arrangement I had with your father can be passed on to you? Tell me what you have to offer me to make this mutually beneficial. 

Tyson: -I couldn’t help but feel and I’m sure look defeated. I was in way over my head because this was just not something I would do or associate myself with so I decided I was just going to be as honest as possible with this man. Either he’s going to kill me or he’s going to accept me either way it didn’t really matter much anymore. I looked him in the eyes as I spoke- Yes I know about the deal you had with my father. His.. assistant told me about it after the funeral. I’m here to offer you I guess continuance. I think the family stopped for a while because of how sick my father got so quickly, but they’re all ready to go back to work and I think I can keep them in line. I haven’t ever done anything like this before. They all know what they were doing though and I have my own business that does well for itself so I know I can run the business side of things. I think my family just wants to keep things business as usual. Is that something you think we can do? -I was bouncing my leg at this point and it was a hard enough bounce that I could see small ripples in the water bottle that he had with him. I was trying my best not to look like a kid or like I was too nervous to control myself, but I would have felt better had my father told me about some of this before he died.-

Javier: <I took in everything about Tyson as he spoke. Not just the words, but the way he carried himself and the unspoken principle within him. I got the impression this wasn’t necessarily something he wanted to do for himself, but for those around him. I held up a finger to him to wait a moment, then waved Henrique over. Leaning back to whisper into his ear, he stood and pulled out his phone from his pocket. He typed quickly then showed me the device. It was everything he could pull up on Tyson Campbell as well as his business. It wasn’t that I didn’t trust him at his word, but in my line of work, I needed to see results. I handed the phone back and Henrique handed my the folder I’d brought with. He walked back to his post and then I returned my attention to Tyson.> If I do this, if you do this, you need to understand that this is not something you will be able to walk away from. Your father’s death has put a hiccup into things and my competition is already circling. I pay the best, provide the best protection, and if you screw me over there will be no place on earth for you to hide. I came here to find out what the problem was as well as details for what I expect from my distributors. 

<I opened the folder and spun it towards him, outlining the schedule, the payout, and the contact points.> If you’re truly interested, sign on the third page and I’ll get the copies to you, we can give it a trial basis of three months where you and yours will be watched.

Tyson: -I listened and tried my best to take everything I could in. I knew it was going to go this way so I wasn’t surprised when he proposed this. But how the fuck was I supposed to let people watch the pack. Did he even know what we were? Protection from what? Us? I held back the laugh that was bubbling up in my chest. With us being watched some things were going to have to change around pack lands. We were going to really be aware of who was watching us and where we changed. This was going to be a challenge for us but I had a feeling maybe that’s what was already going on. Maybe I needed to work that out with the other wolves better. When he offered three months to try it out I was pleased, I could handle that.- The men that will be working for me were the men that were already working for my father minus his ... assistant. He’s parted ways in a retirement fashion. But all the other men are there and know what to do and when to do it. They stopped because of me. I didn’t know what was happening and I started to make changes that didn’t need to be made. -I didn’t want to be honest about that but he needed to know that sometimes I make real fucked up decisions. I took the pen and scribbled down my name- This watching.. You’ll be watching? Or your men? Just trying to know who to expect. 

Javier: <I watched as he processed what I was offering and the demands I was making. They were fair in my opinion. I needed to protect my investments and with the competition circling, I could not be too careful. I knew this land was different, I had the notes from my Falcons. Their secrets were never a concern of mine. I nodded slowly at his words and the admission that followed> Are you saying, had you been informed, you’d have not made those changes? We all make mistakes when we do not have all the information. That is why I came today rather than sending another. 

<I dropped my voice lower as he signed the paper> I know who you are now, and I know what your father was, Tyson. Your secrets and those of your kind, those are your own. As long as my product is moved and I am paid, we will have no issues. As I’ve just had to relieve the two men who were previously handling this are so for now, I will be the one observing. Well, if not me then Henrique or Breno over there will be in touch. 

<I took the folder and signed my name below his, then reached into my inner jacket pocket to pull out a crisp white business card with only ten digits on there. I slid it over to the young man> This is my number, should you need it. Otherwise, you’ll get a copy of the papers with your shipment and a general number for you to call should there be problems. Did you have any further questions for me?

Tyson: -I was taken back a bit by his response in knowing what we were. Taken back enough that I was pretty sure I blinked hard and my mouth fell open a bit. Him knowing our secret made this transaction a lot easier than before. At least the guys would be able to do the running a little quieter than a normal drug dealer and at this deal as it stood we would make more money than we were making before with my father running things. The boys would be pleased with that. I took his card and shook my head- No… No questions at all. It should be business as usual when I get home tomorrow. The pack was just waiting on word from me that the deal was still on. I’m sure they’ll all be pleased with our agreement. -I stood up and took his hand in mine shaking it.- I’m glad I was able to meet you. But, I do ask if you come to the ranch you’re going to need to do it discreetly. The police in the town are crooked and they’re on my dime but if any of the troopers or the surrounding area cops see you, they’ll start looking at my property again and I’d like to avoid that as much as possible. -pointing at the big SUVs outside- Try coming down in trucks and wearing jeans like you fit in there. -I nodded my head and started to walk away from the table- We don’t need your protection as you can see. I look forward to seeing you soon. Bring your family if you have one. The land is beautiful and my guest house is huge. You could take some vacation time. -with that I turned and walked out the back of the building towards my truck. Maybe the people in the hotel wouldn’t be staring at me now when I went back. He was nicer than I thought he would be… I was glad he didn’t kill me-

[thatssirrosi]

Intro SL

<“Boss, you don’t gotta…” I narrowed my eyes and silently dared the little pissant in front of me to continue with his train of thought. He swallowed hard and then sunk back into his seat. I steepled my fingers, cracking them out of habit and eyed the two men sitting in front of me.> I do not need you telling me my business. The numbers in Laredo have been falling and since no one can give me an answer as to why, I will go and find the answers for myself. 

<I hit the small button my desk to get the attention of my gatekeeper and requested they have my driver pull my car around as well as the file for Laredo ready to go. “I’m sure it’s only a little misunderstanding, we can get there and back before…” I didn’t let him finish that thought before I pushed back my leather chair and stood, smoothing down my white button down shirt with my hand as I did. The two before me were supposed to be taking point in Laredo but had failed me time and again. How they didn’t see this was their final moments was beyond me. I gave a nearly imperceptible nod to my guard Breno as I moved around the desk, gathering up my jacket and pulling a sealed bottle of water from the mini refrigerator.> You are both dismissed. 

<I heard the quiet pop of two suppressed rounds being fired as I left my office, gathered up the file, and slid into the backseat of my Maybach s600. Henrique shut the door and sealed me off from the sounds of the world around us. Once he was in the car, I gave him the meeting location and then slunk down into the buttery soft leather seats and perused the file before me. The area was fraught with potential, which made the entire situation frustrating to say the least. I needed someone I could trust. I needed to find out how the now deceased Valereo and Enric had failed so miserably and where this Campbell person fit in.>