Apo’s crew had never liked Hisania. They felt that because of him, Apo had not become the ruthless warlord of the slums. And to a degree they were right. Ending him was their one sure fire way to ignite Apo’s rage.
“Guys…guys…” Trying to not fight a losing battle, Ripa continued to talk. “Look, you really don’t wanna do this.” The increasing pain racing down his throat suddenly began to dissipate.
A rattling hiss floated through the air. Feeling the air around him shift, he took note that everyone’s once-menacing glare was now downcast. Each, in turn, kneeled, prostrating themselves. A slight tickle at the base of his neck caused the few remaining hairs there to stand on end. The blood, once trickling, now froze in place.
Ripa was all too familiar with this chill. He had experienced it
