The Collective (6 page)

In the distance Isnor surveyed the crowd and whispered to
himself. “Is this new?”

“I come here. Fight through your whole gang. And when it’s
time to leave with the prize                  you tell me double or nothing?”
Abel spat out his words in disgust. “I only have two words for you
Warden....BRING IT!”

“That’s what I wanted to hear. No whining is allowed in my
home.” Warden smiled fiercely.

Abel assumed his fighting stance. How tough could Warden
be? Abel thought. He sat around all day watching others fight and do his
bidding. One solid punch would end this quickly. Luchi stepped timidly between
them. His tone revealed even he was not privy to the seldom used rule. “Fight?”

Relying on his quickness, Abel lunged at Warden. With his
size, Warden’s speed was deceptive as he effortlessly ducked under Abel’s
haymaker. Off balance Abel pivoted to strike again. Unexpectedly, a piece of
granite slammed into the side of his face. Falling to the ground Abel realized
it wasn’t stone, but Warden’s fist. The crowd yelled their leader’s name. Abel
succumbed to darkness.

*******

The room was larger than the one Abel occupied before the
tournament. It was airy, sparsely decorated and a metal fan hung from the
middle of the ceiling. The walls were covered with paintings. Light shone in
from the window opposite the bed were Abel slumbered. Keera and Isnor hovered
over him as he lay motionless. He had a tough bout, but it was the final fight
that endeared him to the fans. Challenging Warden was one thing, living to tell
about it was another. Still, Warden had Abel and his companions moved to one of
the nicer spaces in his home. Access to natural light in the sleeping quarters
was often associated with status in Warden’s family. It was not clear what
purpose Abel was to serve. The fact that he was still alive spoke to his value.

Abel’s eyes fluttered open. His first image was of the
heavenly Keera whispering encouragement to him. He closed his eyes to refocus
and opened them to find Isnor hovering too close for comfort. Abel jumped back,
pulling himself up on his elbows. He saw Keera smiling softly on the opposite
side of the bed. Then it hit him. The tournament?

“Wait! The water!” Abel shouted through his hoarse voice.

He looked at Isnor and Keera hoping for good news. Keera
shook her head slowly as Isnor grimaced and stared at the floor.  Abel closed
his eyes and lay flat on his back. Not only was the water lost, but now he was
farther from home and his ultimate destination. Warden had stolen the victory
he was so sure of a few days ago. This whole idea was a waste of time, he
thought. It bore nothing for his efforts.

Isnor could sense the frustration. He felt responsible for
Abel’s current situation. In his experience as a spectator, Abel had what it
took to win. He defeated all challengers before him save one. Was the rule real
or something dreamed up by Warden to deprive Abel of the winnings? Warden was
rarely known to engage in physical combat. What was so different about this situation?
Why was Abel so special? Maybe Warden realized he could not convince him to
join forces. Abel’s anger stayed keenly focused on avenging his family.  What
is fair is fair though. He should get some form of compensation. Isnor finally
spoke up. “You put on a real show kid. Everyone’s surprised you got a swing on
Warden. Sorry about the prize. I guess I never saw a first-timer win the thing.
You definitely deserve something for your troubles.”

Coming through the door with Luchi, Warden intervened. “And
he will receive something for his troubles.”

He tossed a bottle of water to Abel, who caught it
instinctively. Luchi was carrying two bottles for Isnor and Keera. A third man
entered unarmed, but was undoubtedly one of Warden’s guards. He settled silently
near the door.

“If I may, that was a great fight with Goll.” Luchi said
clearly astonished by Abel’s skills.  “Where did you learn your technique?”

Abel sat up on the bed so his feet were touching the floor.
He cracked open the water and took a long swig. “My father. He was Special
Forces in the old army.”

“Yeah, those guys could really fight. The regular army was
tough, but Special Forces were on a whole other level. I’ve seen them in action
before.” Luchi responded with wonderment.

“Really? When?” Isnor questioned.

Warden interrupted. “Luchi please. I need to speak with my
guest.”

“Excuse me Warden. Great fight Abel.” Luchi nodded to the
rest of the group then exited the room.

“What was that about?” The merchant wondered aloud.

Their host looked at each of them in turn. “Luchi has seen
many things in his time. You should sit down and talk with him when time
permits.” Warden fixed his gaze on his last competitor. “How are you Abel?”

“Been better.” Abel said as he rubbed his neck.

“It makes one a better person to have hardships and to have
overcome those hardships only blaming oneself for mistakes made.” Warden
continued “Abel it’s unfortunate what happened. We normally don’t broadcast the
first-timer rule. The fact is, few people get to the final round let alone win.
And the rare ones that do refuse to fight me. They’re too busy trying to gain
my favor. You on the other hand chose to challenge me. I respect that.  And
believe me I don’t respect many people.” Warden’s voice had a twinge of
sincerity, but Abel was not so easily swayed by his explanation.

“That’s how you show respect, by knocking someone out?
Things really are done differently around here.”

Warden walked closer to the bed. “I would be lying if I
said I didn’t enjoy it, because I did. But not for the reasons you think. A man
in my position must set limitations on physical engagements. I’m not fighting
the gangs directly anymore. I don’t travel to trade with the Water Facility or
Bourdain. My tournament is the only real connection to the outside world. It’s
how I                         gauge the plight and struggle of the common man.”

“And recruit new talent.” Keera snapped, unable to hold
back.

Warden stopped his speech. Smiling at Keera he looked back
at Abel and winked. “She’s a feisty one. But I thought she knew better than to
speak.”

Taking another sip of water, Abel rose to his feet. His
eyes had no fear as he stared at Warden. He had lost in the ring, but that was
with a four challenger warm-up. Abel wondered how he would fare if he was rested.
“Her name is Keera.”

Warden raised his arms in mock appeasement. “Okay, okay.
Keera, you’re correct. But how else do you propose we fight against the
corruption in this country? Do you have a better solution? Yes. I bring people
here with the hope of fortune, but many find a fraternity that they never
thought possible.”

“Is that an invitation?” Abel asked smugly.

“No.” His host said softly. “Unfortunately your display in
the arena will not allow me to invite you into my fold just yet.”

Isnor groaned. “Pity.”

Ignoring Isnor he continued. “Indeed. But I know you, Abel.
Or I should say I know men like you. And I know you do not want to leave empty
handed. So I have a proposition for you.”

“A proposition?” Isnor exclaimed, amazed at the man’s gall.

“I’m listening.” Abel said coolly.

“It would seem certain events have linked our paths.”
Warden started.

“Go on.” Abel pressed.

“There is a man that goes by the name of Tommie Gun. As
part of Xonox’s circle, he was privy to classified information pertaining to
Xonox’s tower. Security clearances, number of guards, secret ways in and out,
the whole layout. In the name of personal gain, Tommie defected. Before I could
attain this sensitive information from Mr. Gun, he was discovered and forced to
take refuge in the Grazen Woods.” He purposely let the last bit of information
linger.

“What are you saying Warden?” Isnor demanded.

Warden was still focused on the tournament winner. “What
I’m asking is I need someone who can handle themselves to escort Tommie back to
my home. Once here, I can analyze the plans and discover the weaknesses in
Xonox’s defenses. Destroying that House will weaken the remaining seven and
pave the way for an uprising.”

“You want Abel to go into the Grazen Woods! Everyone knows
those woods are a death trap. No one ever returns.” Keera was tense as she
spoke, realizing the dangers Abel would face.

Warden attempted to calm her. “The tales of the Grazen
Woods are exaggerated. People don’t die there, they stay there to live off the
forest. Never mind.”

“What do I
get
?” Abel asked.

“You’re not serious?” Keera said nervously.

“All the weapons you can carry and the use of one of my
personal vehicles fully stocked.” The host responded without hesitation.

“No. I mean what do I get.” Abel reiterated, emphasizing the
last word.

Warden whispered. “Oh. Yes. Unswayed. I see.” The man who
had built a kingdom on the edge of nothingness sought to sell him on the idea.
“What if I told you I have a better offer than just water?”

“Better than water?” Isnor quipped. “Watch out kid!”

“Isnor. Some respect please. You are in my home.” Warden
reminded him and then turned back to Abel. “If you get Tommie and the plans
back safely to me, you can keep the guns and I’ll give you a case of water.
Or...”

“Or what?” Abel asked impatiently.

Warden knew he had his interest now. “You can join me in
the assault against Xonox. I guarantee you at least twenty soldiers under your
command as well as anyone you want to bring in.  Think of it Abel, with my
resources and your fearlessness, Xonox will burn for all he’s done.”

Abel stared at the floor contemplating the offer. Keera was
sure he should not take it and voiced her opinion. “Thanks, but no thanks.
We’ve heard enough of your promises. How about compensating Abel for the four
people he defeated in the arena. Don’t listen to him Abel!”

She was beside herself and Abel wanted to assuage her
fears. “Keera, calm down. Can we have a second, Warden?”

“Sure. I’ll be outside.” Warden stepped out of the room.

“Abel, we don’t need his help.” Keera spoke quickly sensing
Abel’s willingness to accept the offer. “What has it gained us so far?”

Isnor agreed. “She’s right lad. Let’s cut our losses.”

“I understand your concerns.” Abel chose his words
carefully. “But I did not come this far to leave with nothing. Worst case
scenario I can’t find the guy and we have ammo and a car from the deal. But
what if I do find him? Warden’s right, I can do a lot more damage with his army
behind me. This isn’t your fight, so I understand if you both decide to leave.”

“We’re with you whatever you decide.” Keera leaned over and
clutched his hand.

“That’s right.” Isnor put his hand on his shoulder.

“Good.” He was glad they supported him. Their loyalty was
more valuable than any of Warden’s twenty men. Abel called out. “Warden!”

“Well...” Warden answered as he came back into the room.

Abel walked toward Warden. “Stock the car and don’t skimp
on the ammo.”

Three days had passed since Abel competed. His wounds and
pride were fully healed. Warden’s people had taken good care of him. Keera and
Isnor were by his side to ensure he reached full strength. As day broke, Abel
geared up for the journey ahead. His vest and cargo pants were scrubbed to look
like new. Warden provided boots, a compass, goggles, a machete, submachine gun,
two handguns with all the water and ammo he could carry. This mission was too
dangerous for Keera and Isnor. Abel planned to drop them off in Bourdain, which
was slightly out of the way. The jeep was parked behind the warehouse. A red
‘W’ insignia was across the hood. It was fully fueled as Warden had promised.
An M-16 with a grenade launcher was tucked in the back in case he got in a
tight spot. Abel was ready for anything.

The trio climbed aboard and drove to the main gate at the
side of the building. As they approached the exit, one of Warden’s guards
halted the vehicle. “Hold on.”

There was no imminent threat, but the delay was odd. After
a few minutes of waiting, Isnor piped up at the guard. “Is there a problem?”

Warden appeared from the side door with one unarmed escort.
“No problem Isnor. I just think there was some miscommunication.” He looked
from the merchant to Abel. “This mission is far too hazardous for you and
Keera. I would prefer you stay here as my guests while Abel is gone.”

“Thanks Warden.” Isnor stayed seated in the jeep. “We
appreciate the offer, but I need to get back to my shop, Keera needs to get
back home...”

“But I insist.” The tournament host cut him off and
motioned to the guards. “Help them with their bags.”

“No...” Keera pulled her backpack to her chest as the guard
reached for it.

“Hey, no need for that.” Abel said with a steady voice,
hoping to avoid a tussle that would injure his friends.  “Isnor and Keera will
stay.”

“The heck we will.” Isnor said infuriated at the request.