IN THIS PRESENT CRISIS / typhoon visit

[Stryker]

The smell of salt lurked in the air. The Typhoon's stank reminisced within their space for the first time since his takeover, causing a lowly growl to exit from Stryker's throat. Slitted eyes focused out onto the horizon and he set off into the underbrush, following the scent while concealing himself in the shadows. Paws tracked on the swamp's floor in silence. His claws slide from out their sockets, prepping to attack the stranger and take them down with ease. As the pirate faded into view, the lion came to a halt. His chest lowered to the floor. Yet his neon hues couldn't help but look above the bush at the silhouette in the distance. Settling on the familiar feather and that damned accent, this could only be one feline.

The lion froze in his spot. Sophiea slipped past him without any acknowledgement and he held his breath. A narrowed gaze watched as the two exchanged greetings. With his teeth ready to bare and claws ready to strike, he awaited Sophiea's response, as it would make or break her fate.

'Others have been getting sick.'

Well, that was quite an excuse. Her response was smart and concise, putting Tanglewood's true state behind them. The reality of the situation that not only was Vigenere not sick, but neither were the others. They were all underneath Stryker's paw, unable to revolt or escape his grip. A few have tried. Their efforts were met with punishment nonetheless, resulting in Sophiea's successful compliance. After all this time, she had remained quiet and stayed within her specific orders to the Kingpin's satisfaction, especially in the presence of her dearest friend and The Typhoon's leader. Needless to say, things were falling into place.

Had he expected the Captain to show up on his doorstep though? No. Not at all. The surprise was welcome though, as it made his plans much easier. After two years, their reunion would finally come around to Goldenluxury's distaste and Stryker's gratification.

His eyes drifted to the accomplice though. The small feline was present too. Keona posed a threat if she escaped, but one he could deal with if need be. Acquiring Goldenluxury was only the first step in their process and if their enemy was alerted, so be it. They were damned either way. The Coalition of the Condemned would have leverage. Nonetheless, his claws flexed in the mud as he stared from the darkness. She was small enough to dominate over and acquire easily, but also fast enough to escape. Stryker's thoughts wandered as he considered the possibilities before him.

The lion settled on a decision. Soft steps prowled carefully behind the captain and he positioned himself strategically with ease. From the dark, he lowered to his haunches once again. As Goldenluxury finished her grateful words, a small smile spread across her lips and Stryker knew it was his time to strike. 

From the depths, the Kingpin emerged. Stryker sored through the air and aimed to dive at Goldenluxury's back leg with his venomous teeth sinking into her lower shin. If successful, he'd pull her backwards in an attempt to throw her off her feet and collapse to the ground. With a wicked glare, he'd stare down at her and try to place his paw upon her chest, holding her down with sheer strength.

"Long time, no see, Goldie Locks."