Chapter 5: Alien Echoes and a Dangerous Opportunity
The information Aslan had brought had electrified the air in Echo's dilapidated headquarters. Chitauri technology… the terrifying legacy of an invasion that had bloodied the skies over New York City only a few months earlier, a threat that had challenged even the world's mightiest heroes. The words meant something different to everyone in the room. To Shadow, this was a threat too great to handle, and possibly a trap. To Aslan, it was a daring step out of their misery and into true power. To Kael, this information was an unexpected but potentially game-changing move on the chessboard in his mind.
The risks were obvious. These pieces of technology were likely on the radar not only of other ambitious gangs, but also of government agencies, perhaps more secretive entities like S.H.I.E.L.D. Going after such a treasure would put Echo directly in the crosshairs of players in a league he was not yet ready for. But the reward… The reward seemed worth the risk. Chitauri technology, no matter how small, could give Kael's group an advantage far beyond conventional weapons, exponentially accelerating their progress toward empire.
Kael made a cool assessment before making his decision. He called Aslan over and questioned him in detail about the rumor's source, its potential location, the activities of other groups in the area, and possible security measures. The information Aslan had gleaned from the streets was scattered but valuable: a particular warehouse complex in the abandoned Red Hook industrial zone was frequently mentioned. The area was rumored to be controlled by a ruthless gang known for technological plunder, the "Iron Fists." The Chitauri parts were rumored to be in a container damaged and forgotten during the war.
"We will do this," Kael finally said, his voice firm and clear. He saw Shadow start to object, but Kael's gaze silenced him. "But not stupidly, but intelligently. We'll scout first. Aslan, you're coming with me. Shadow, you'll stay here and keep the headquarters secure. Zero... you're not to leave Shadow's sight." This last sentence, directed at Zero, was both a command and a threat.
The next night, Kael and Aslan infiltrated the dark, haunted streets of Red Hook. Abandoned warehouses, rusted cranes, and broken windows were the ghostly remains of a once vibrant industrial area. The air smelled of mold and rotting metal, mixed with the salty smell of the sea. Using Kael's echoing street knowledge and his own instincts, Aslan expertly guided them through the shadows, toward the warehouse complex at the center of the rumor.
Their observations from afar suggested that the situation was more complicated than rumored. The warehouse complex was indeed controlled by the Iron Fists; there were armed men patrolling the area and makeshift watchtowers positioned at strategic points. But Kael's keen eyes and Aslan's resonant attention, combined with his observational skills, noticed more: Some of the men were armed with modified, strangely energized weapons beyond the standard street weapons. They had already obtained and begun using pieces of Chitauri technology.
The container, the real target, stood in the most fortified area of the complex, in a floodlit area. There were at least four guards around it, and the container itself appeared to be intact. It would be difficult to get inside.
While Kael was assessing the situation, an unexpected opportunity presented itself. Two members of the Iron Fists were arguing heatedly in a hidden corner during a patrol. Kael deciphered their conversation through the whispers carried by the wind and Aslan's lip-reading abilities (which were made even more effective when combined with Kael's own powers of observation). One of the men complained that their leader was using Chitauri technology only to consolidate his own power and was not sharing the spoils fairly. The other tried to silence him, talking about the consequences of betrayal.
This was the crack Kael had been searching for. The seeds of disloyalty. If he could exploit this disgruntled soldier's weakness, he could open a door to infiltrate. His plan took shape instantly. He motioned to Aslan to stand back and wait at a distance. He himself, blending into the shadows, began to follow the patrol route of the disgruntled of the two arguing men. His goal was to catch the man alone and make him an offer he couldn't refuse: a chance to break free from the Iron Fist's unjust leadership and become part of Kael's rising power. If he could gain the man's loyalty, he would not only gain entry, but also vital information about the inner workings of the Iron Fist and Chitauri technology.
As Kael approached his prey, he felt the familiar tingling in his fingertips again. This time, his goal wasn't just a container full of alien junk; he also wanted to undermine his opponent's power from within, and use the power of loyalty to his advantage once more. As he moved through the shadows, that faint smile appeared on his lips again. The game was becoming more dangerous, but also more enjoyable.