Post by Oath Breaker on Jul 26, 2016 3:07:16 GMT -5
Tijuana, Mexico
Nighttime.
Night was always a time man feared. Something about the darkness seemed to imply evil and danger in the very fiber of man. Even the Native American Indian tribes of North America did not hunt man or beast at night, preferring to camp down and build fires.
That belief was so engrained that the tribes rarely even put up guards or sentries out to guard. That fact had been utilized by the Army against the Indians to force great devastation and misery upon the peoples of the plains.
The night was friendly place for many beasts of the land though, and humans could be trained to overcome the night and the effects of night. He was such a man, fueled by the unholy power within.
The man walking the streets of Tijuana was shrouded behind the long hair hanging loosely about his head. The blue jeans and button up shirt were the same that anyone on these streets wore.
Tom O Hawk was among the denizens of the depraved world once again, using subtlety to slip back into control of the world. This allowed him the freedom and access to come here to the streets of Tijuana, where anything and everything was available at his fingertips.
Tommy saw the undertones of this world like others did not. The small groups of three or four men keeping their eyes on the streetwalkers were not interested in their services, but rather the wallets of those they serviced. Working in concert they would roll any big spenders and shuffle off to another area. The other streetwalkers were thin, too thin to be natural and too thin to be caused by lack of food per se, rather lack of food because the heroin didnt make you hungry. Much the opposite, the heroin made you forget the very idea of food.
Many more dark tones reigned on the street, and this is where Tommy made his home. This was his comfort zone, but Tijuana had all sorts of things to offer. One of the businesses that thrived was the business of magic, the black or the white. Magic was simply an additional avenue to power.
Tommy was tapped into the occurrences of the world through means no one would understand.The connection between physical and spirit realm is the world we live in. His heritage and ancestry saw to it he had this in spades..
Tommy knew that there was a woman, a bruja of little skill who had been involved for a short time period before passing the duties off to another bruja. Of course, seeing this woman would not be difficult. She saw many people to help with the kinds of small problems they were used to.
The woman whose name he did not yet know was located atop a small strip club. That in and of itself surprised him, but he realized she was simply another source of consolation to the lost souls who went to the club.
This strip club was just like many in Tijuana, where you could get a lap dance and then be entertained by something even much more intimate if you had enough pesos.
The path to find the club was guided by the senses he had, not directions. The person was not far away, taking lefts and right like someone from TJ would. He was following the scent, the feel in the air.
Here it was, a dirty two-storied building with not much happening outside. There were words painted on the walls, but he did not care about them. Instead, he moved around to the entrance.
The man sitting on the stool was at least four hundred pounds supported by an out of shape five and a half foot frame. His greasy hair was thinning and food and debris were in the scraggily beard on his face, but the smell from the man was the worst thing. And Hawk could only chuckle under his breath at how this man reminded him of a seriously out of contention version of T.U.B.
Tommy ignored the name of the club, simply entering with a nod to the doorman. He walked inside and took a look around. This was the kind of place he expected, but even it was lower than he originally pictured.
The stages were filled with women dancing, not one or two but dozens. There were men throughout the half filled club, some with women on their laps talking, others receiving a lap dance and many more in the corners or against the walls receiving head from their strippers. He watched one of the dancers take a man with her to the back, entering a small booth no doubt to have intercourse.
This was the type of den that you could do anything at and find anything at. He had been to these places before during his military life, and he had been home here. He had been away for so long he wanted to take a piece, but there were more pressing duties than the desires of his loins and flesh. He could ignore the remains of his mortality, his fleshly desires.
Tommy walked over to the bar and took one of the empty stools. The man seated on his right was tall and powerfully built. Black jeans and black leather vest were the only clothes covering his body, but there was plenty of ink partnered with it to cover him.
The man looked at Tommy, “¡Alguien está sentando allí a gringo! ¡Levántese!” (Someone is sitting there gringo! Get up!)
Tommy looked back at the man, his own eyes burning into this mans powered by all the hatred within. He looked over at the man, dismissing him instantly as an ego-inflated blowhard.” Me estoy sentando aquí. Ahora el movimiento lejos y nosotros no tendremos un problema.” (Im sitting here. Now move away and we wont have a problem.)
The man looked rebuked.
“¡Usted hijo de una perra! ¿Voy a?” (You son of a bitch! Im going to ) The man was about to point at Tommy, but he would not be allowed to insult him in such a way.
Tommy grabbed the mans finger and bent it all the way back until he was holding onto the mans hand with the finger broken, dislocated and bent in ways it never should have been.
The man dropped down to his knees, crying out in pain. His hand had just been destroyed, never to fully recover for the rest of his life. He was looking up at the man, but he suddenly realized that this was not a man but a monster. A demon from Hell come to punish him.
“Ahora vaya lejos, y nunca preocúpeme otra vez.” (Now go away, and never trouble me again.) Tommy said plainly. He shoved the man down onto his back then turned to the bartender.” Déme tres tiros de tequila, estante superior, y el don?t me da cualquier regado abajo del crap.” (Give me three shots of tequila, top shelf, and dont give me any watered down crap.)
The bartender quickly went to the end of the bar and opened a sliding cabinet. He pulled out a bottle of Patron Anejo Tequila. He moved over to the man and set three shot glasses out before him.
Behind the man the biker was leaving, not wanting to look at this longhaired gringo anymore. The bartender poured the three shots and looked at the man.
Tommy downed the first shot, savoring the flavor of the fine tequila. He then followed with the next two shots. He grabbed the bottle from the bartender, “¿Dónde está la bruja?” (Where is the witch?)
The bartender looked to the back where the sex booths were, ”Encima de las escaleras por las cabinas. Ella está allí.” (Up the stairs by the booths. She is there.)
“Gracias.” (Thank you.) Tommy threw a few ten dollar bills on the bar to pay for the half bottle of tequila. He took the bottle with him and headed for the stairs. He was happily surprised no one paid attention to him because scuffles and fights were so routine here.
Tommy walked past the crowd, ignoring the blowjobs and naked women as he moved to the stairs. Many of the booths doors were left open, and he saw the dirty workers after long days of work @#%$ the women in the booth or performing even more depraved acts.
Tommy stopped at the stairs and looked up. He slowly began climbing up the stairs, looking forward to the meeting he was about to have. This was simply a small step, little action in a larger plan. This would send shockwaves and fear through the forces aligned against him and in turn send shockwaves of changes throughout his wrestling career.
At the top of the stairs was simple wooden door with several symbols painted on it and handmade symbols hung from the wood. He opened the door and walked inside the room. There was a line of chairs against the right wall, and none of the chairs was occupied.
Tommy sat down on the chair and took a sip from the bottle.
After several minutes a voice came out to him from behind the slightly open door against the wall opposite the entrance.
“Venido en hombre joven.” (Come in young man.) The old womans voice said.
Tommy stood up and moved to the door. He pushed the door open, stepped inside and shut the door behind him.
The room was dark, lit only by a few candles in the corners. The center of the room had a low table covered with wax from the many candles burned on it before, but the middle of the table was kept clean and clear. The walls were lined with shelves containing dried herbs, bottles of oils and liquids and all manner of handmade charms and symbols.
The woman sitting on a pillow at the table was older, in her late fifties although her body was kept fit and trim by her exercise routine. She liked her yoga and running to keep her body and mind linked in health.
A simple white shirt paired with a black skirt with colorful designs and flowers on it covered her body.
Tommy took another sip from the tequila bottle.
“No hay necesidad de una botella de valor aquí. Usted es seguro.” (There is no need for a bottle of courage here. You are safe.) The bruja said.
“¿Cuál es su nombre?” (What is your name?) Tommy asked as he sat down on the pillow opposite of the woman.
The woman smiled kindly, ”Mi nombre es Doña Gracia, y le ayudaré mi amigo. ¿”Qué apuros usted? (My name is Doña Gracia, and I will help you my friend. What troubles you?)
Tommy took another sip, then looked up at the woman. His eyes were cold and dangerous,” ¿Usted no me conoce?” (You dont know me?) Tommy was smiling now, enjoying the advantages he had here.
“No.”
“Soy él reborn del fuego y furia. No puedo ser parado o ser silenciado. Soy el messiah oscuro... que usted ha trabajado contra mis agentes. Usted ha proporcionado consuelo a mis enemigos mientras que me pide más energía. ¿Qué debo hacer con alguien como usted que me traicionaría?” (I am He reborn of fire and fury. I cannot be stopped or silenced. I am the Dark Messiah you have worked against my agents. You have provided solace to my enemies while asking me for more power. What should I do with someone like you who would betray me?)
The womans eyes went wide. She felt the power of the man grow over her, and she could sense nothing outside of the room. Her heart seemed to stop momentarily, and she wanted to flee, but there was no fleeing this man.
“Había trabajo que usted se realizó, magia usted se realizó. En el extremo, usted era demasiado débil y absurdo para esto. Usted pasó esta tarea encendido alguien más de gran alcance que usted. Simplemente dígame que éste era. Dígame lo que deseo, y le dejaré para continuar estos servicios trifling que usted ofrece a los hombres después de que acaben con las putas abajo.” (There was work you performed, magic you performed. In the end, you were too weak and foolish for this. You passed this task on to someone more powerful than you. Simply tell me who this was. Tell me what I want, and I will leave you to continue these trifling services you offer to the men after they finish with the whores downstairs.)
Her options were limited here. She had to make a decision, and her heart would not allow her to simply give into this beast of the field. She reached under the table, feeling the sculpted handle of the knife there. She felt the grip, but she also felt his power across the breech between them. He was speaking the truth.
“Le diré que su nombre, pero yo necesite algo.” (I will tell you his name, but I need something.) Bold were her words, and she had the determined look in her eyes to back up her thoughts.
Tommy enjoyed this, “¿Usted estipularía con mí?” (You would bargain with me?)
“Sí, haría un comercio.” (Yes, I would make a trade.) She leaned back now.
Tommy allowed her to act as a confident woman. He could break her, take her down and force the information out of her easily enough. That would bring the authorities, and greater scrutiny on what Malum was working on here below the border. ”Para una puta, usted tiene bolas enormes. Dígame lo que usted desea, y si no me molesta le lo concederé.” (For a whore, you have huge balls. Tell me what you want, and if it does not annoy me I shall grant it to you.)
“Hay un hombre en el policía federal que nos ha incomodado, intentado tomar el dinero de nosotros y parar mi práctica aquí. Topping de Bys yo, él trabaja indirectamente contra usted también. Pido solamente usted quitarlo de modo que pueda continuar sirviéndole, señor.” (There is a man in the federal police who has bothered us, tried to take money from us and stop my practice here. Bys topping me, he indirectly works against you as well. I only ask for you to remove him so that I may continue to serve you, Lord.)
“Una bruja con una lengüeta torcida. La haré, porque capitán Morales ha cruzado las trayectorias con mí antes.” (A witch with a twisted tongue. I will do it, because Captain Morales has crossed paths with me before.)
“Sí, sé de quién usted habla. Ahora, déjenos hablan de quién ha estado trabajando contra mí, pero de quién es también bastante sly seguir encubierto.” (Yes, I know of whom you speak. Now, lets talk about who has been working against me, but who is also sly enough to remain concealed.)
They began speaking. She told him everything he needed to know. The man was good, and now he would be given a choice, and his selfishness would not outlast his need for life.
Tijuana, Mexico
Later that night
He made his way through the streets with ease. This was the kind of event you walked to, and possibly drove away from. He had the needed item in his back pocket. He finally reaches the home. This man, El Diabólico, Gilberto Rodriguez Pereyra was a man who lived well in this upscale neighborhood. The homes here were at least half a million dollars US. Something about this area reminded him of JFK, and his need to landishly exploit his wealth to all around him.
This was not a gated or guarded community though, and that worked to Tommys advantage. He walked right up the steps with the manicured bushes and well kept yard. He walked right up to the door and knocked.
The lights on inside the house indicated that at least someone in the home was still awake. In this business, odd hours were kept as a matter of course. Who knew when such specialty help would be needed after all?
Finally, someone came to the door. The heavy wooden door was pulled open revealing a young woman in khakis and a tee shirt. ”¿Sí? ¿Cómo puedo ayudarle?” (Yes? How can I help you?)
Tommy smiled, his charm turning on for the young woman. “Sí, urgente estoy del cuestión del una del en de Gilberto Rodriguez Pereyra del buscando.” (Yes, I am looking for Gilberto Rodriguez Pereyra on an urgent matter.)
The young woman nodded, ”Él es mi padre. Por favor, venga en y espere en la biblioteca y lo conseguiré.” (He is my father. Please, come in and wait in the library and I will get him.)
The woman opened the door and pointed to the right. Tommy smiled and walked into the library. The walls were covered with bookshelves containing thousands of leather bound volumes. The entire house did not speak of the work the man did.
A picture on one of the shelves got his attention. There was a man, older and distinguished looking. He was slender, and there was a woman with him flanked by the same young woman he had just met and an even younger boy.
The family? Tommy thought to himself.
His thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of a man. He was alone. Rodriguez was a slender man with a placid, sober expression, conspicuously red hair and lots of jewelry on his person. Silver rings depicting an owl, a skull and a serpent; gold, amber, red, black and jade necklaces, the last of which contained the spiked teeth of an animal Tommy did not recognize.
He spoke in a calm voice, “No creo que hemos satisfecho a sir”. (I do not believe we have met sir.)
“No, no hemos tenido el placer, pero su reputación se separa de par en par y lejos.” (No, we have not had the pleasure, but your reputation spreads wide and far.) Tommy explained.
They shook hands, each offering a firm grip. The man took notice at the ease in which his hand seemed nearly crushed under to hoof of the larger Cherokee.
“¿Cómo puedo estar de ayuda?” (How may I be of assistance?) He asked.
Tommy looked the man in the eyes,” Hay una bruja que intenta causarme gran daño.” (There is a witch trying to cause me great harm.)
“Esto es serio. Siéntese por favor.” (This is serious. Please sit.) They both sat down in chairs facing each other.
“Sí absolutamente.” (Yes, quite.)
“Por favor, explique esto a mí”. (Please, explain this to me.)
“Una mujer nombró originalmente a Doña Gracia intentado para dañarme. Ella es un tonto, e inepta en tales cosas. Ella pasó tan este deber encendido a una bruja mucho más de gran alcance. Este hombre tenía cuidado, el echar encanta para ocultar su identidad, encubriéndose y en el extremo él podía trabajar contra mí sin revelarse.” (Originally a woman named Doña Gracia tried to harm me. She is a fool, and inept in such things. So she passed this duty on to a much more powerful witch. This man was careful, casting charms to hide his identity, concealing himself and in the end he was able to work against me without revealing himself.)
Rodriguez shifted in his chair uncomfortably, starting to realize what was happening.
“La perra me dio un nombre del hombre que ella empleó para hacer el trabajo. Ella hizo un reparto. EL Diabólico, Gilberto Rodriguez Pereyra era el que esta' que trabajaba contra mí. Tan aquí debo verle. Soy un hombre que usted conoce que... soy renacimiento a través de fuego... soy el messiah oscuro.” (The bitch gave me a name of the man she hired to do the work. She made a deal. El Diabólico, Gilberto Rodriguez Pereyra was the one working against me. So here I am to see you. I am a man you know , I am rebirth through fire I am the Dark Messiah.) Tommy explained calmly.
Rodriguez was starting to get riled, ”¡No encuentro esto divertido! ¡Usted ahora saldrá de mi hogar!” (I do not find this funny! You will leave my home now!)
Gilberto began to rise. Tommy didnt move. The man pulled an automatic pistol from his back, but with the flick of his finger Tommy knocked the pistol away. He raised his hand up, and the man was lifted into the air. He slowly squeezed his hand, the mans entire body began pressing in upon itself as the invisible force squeezed down on his body. Gilberto wanted to scream, but he found he had no voice with which to do it.
“Esto era absurdo. Usted creyó que era un pretendiente, así que le perdonaré. Ahora usted trabajará para mí.” (This was foolish. You believed I was a pretender, so I will forgive you. Now you will work for me.) Tommy remained calm, his voice still a conversational tone so the mans family would not come barging in to complicate matters.
“¡No, nunca trabajaré para usted!” (No, I will never work for you!) He tried to sue his power to force himself free, but he was dealing with something he had never encountered. Thirty years of experience, since he was ten years old, and this had never happened.
“Vi a su hija cara a cara, y si usted sabe quiénes soy entonces usted sabe que puedo conseguir uniforme más cercano a ella. Usted también tiene una esposa hermosa, y un hijo joven. Usted hará como ordeno, declara lealtad a mí y entonces, y solamente entonces, puede usted garantizar la seguridad de su familia.” (I saw your daughter face-to-face, and if you know who I am then you know I can get even closer to her. You also have a beautiful wife, and a young son. You will do as I command, declare loyalty to me and then, and only then, can you guarantee the safety of your family.) Tommy waived a finger at the man menacingly as he hung in mid-air.
The man tried to yell, but it came out as a hoarse whisper, ”¡Usted no puede tocarlos!” (You cannot touch them!)
Tommy laughed. He was enjoying the conversation. “Yo lata, y yo voluntad a menos que usted me ayude. Solamente le estoy preguntando que hacer las mismas cosas que usted ha hecho contra otros, pero este vez las blancos estarán de mi elegir. Hay un hombre, y usted lo acosará. Usted lo perseguirá y lo torturará de cada manera posible hasta que él es así que desigual nada puede ahorrarlo. ¿Usted entiende?” (I can, and I will unless you help me. I am only asking you to do the same things you have done against others, but this time the targets will be of my choosing. There is a man, and you will harass him. You will hound him and torture him in every way possible until he is so ragged nothing can save him. Do you understand?)
Tommy waited, but he was not receiving an answer. Tommy increased the pressure of the grip. He also sent a small bolt over to the bookcase. The family portrait on the shelf cracked in half. That action got Diabolic Gilberto Rodriguez Pereyras attention,” ¿Usted entiende?” (Do you understand?)
He looked away from the man torturing him. Gilberto knew he was trapped by these circumstances. The fractured picture was something he could not let become reality, “Sí, entiendo.” (Yes, I understand.)
Tommy released his hold. The man fell back down into the chair. Gilberto looked like he had aged many years while held in the grip, “Bueno. Ahora, hay una acción que requiero para demostrar su lealtad. Hay un hombre que debe ser matado, asesinado en hecho. Usted hará eso como pacto de la sangre, señalando su lealtad a mí.” (Good. Now, theres one action I require to show your loyalty. There is a man who must be killed, murdered in fact. You will do that as a blood pact, signaling your allegiance to me.)
“¿Quién es él?” (Who is it?) Gilberto.
“Capitán Morales es su nombre, y creo que usted le conoce.” (Captain Morales is his name, and I believe you know him.)
Rosarito, Mexico
3 A.M.
The salt air rising up the rough rock wall carried the ocean humidity into his lungs. He knew he was at the moment where his familys lives would be decided. If he did as he had been instructed, then they would be safe. If he refused, then it was no stretch to say that Hell would befall them.
The steel was cold against the sensitive skin of back. He saw in the distance a pair of headlights as they came over the hill onto the top of the cliff. The Suburban pulled up next to his BMW, and parked.
The man who stepped out wore green canvas pants and a black, short sleeve tee shirt. His tanned skin and wiry muscles spoke of the mans athleticism. He walked over to his friend, and spoke in English.
“Do you know how late it is?” Captain Morales asked, annoyance easy to discern in his voice.
“Of course I do!” Gilberto fired back angrily. “I have a family Im not with! Im sorry to interrupt your partying! “
“Shut-up”! Morales snapped. “Whats the big deal?”
“Someone knows about our relationship. He came by my house. He threatened me! He threatened my family!” Gilberto didnt have to go far to find his anger at the situation. He would use his frustration to drive this performance.
“Who was it?”
Gilberto looked him right in the eye, “He said the Cartels would know him as Mr. X, and that would be a name you knew.”
Captain Morales was frozen. The man known by that name had done everything evil under the sun. Why he would be showing up now was unknown. Captain Morales paced around for a moment, ”What did he say?”
”He said that you had moved against some of his interests.” Gilberto moved his hand behind his back.
Morales shook his head, “No! I work for the Cartel! I protect all of their interests! I am one of their best men! You know this! We have worked on their behalf for years! What more could they want of us.”
Captain Morales was looking out across the ocean.
Gilberto pulled the pistol out, “He doesnt work for the Cartels anymore.”
“Who does he work for then?” Morales turned around.
The loud crack seemed to deafen him as he squeezed the trigger. Captain Morales couldnt understand what just happened. He looked down, and grabbed hold of his midsection. He pulled his hands away, and saw the sticky, red liquid covering his fingers. The look of confusion morphed in slow motion into confusion over the betrayal.
Captain Morales moves forward, and Gilberto shot him again. Morales fell into him, and so he continued pulling the trigger until he had emptied the entire magazine. Captain Morales fell down to his knees, and looked up at his friend. None of this made sense n to Gilberto.
“¿Por qué usted me ha traicionado? Dios Querido…” Morales fell to the ground dead.
Gilberto dropped the pistol. He saw the blood stains on his short, and tears began poiuring out of his eyes. He had crossed the line into new territory, dark, murky waters that had no real firm footing. He couldnt believe what he had done.
The hand on his shoulder startled him, causing him to literally jump. Tommy smiled, ”No reason to worry. You did as you had to do.”
Tommy kneeled down. He ripped open where the bullets had torn into the flesh. Hand covered in blood, he marked symbols upon Gilberto as he spoke.
“
?? ? ?? ?? ??. ? ? ? ??, ? ?? ? ? ?? ? ? ?? ?? ? ?? ??” Tommy smiled as the ceremony completed.
“What was that?” Gilberto asked as he kept staring at the dead body.
“The bond, which cannot be broken.” Tommy explained. He put his arm over the mans shoulders, “Walk with me, and let us speak of what you will do now and to whom you shall do it.”
New York City, New York
Apartment Building
4:30 PM
Now that he was all by himself in his quest, there was less strain on his time. He had shifted almost all responsibilities away from himself, but there were some things he was duty bound to do as a brother and a friend.
The letter had been recieved just a day befor with him in Chicago. He had almost tossed the hand-addressed letter aside before realizing what it was he was holding in the mail sort. Very few people took the time to hand write letters anymore, and even those who did didnt normally use such an expensive brand of paper.
The handwriting he didnt recognize because no one wrote out by hand anymore. Everything was all emails and text message, anything hand written was now printed chicken scratches, but in the event a letter was written it was simply typed and printed for consumption. Instead, the ivory colored linen paper had been handwritten by his brother due to the sensitive subject.
Eric had always been an immensely private individual. He never shared his personal life outside of his immediate family. Of course, like many wrestlers, Eric had experienced his wild days. During that time, he had competed extensively in Texas, New York and Japan. He had many loves, but none were ever closer to brother Eric than pizza and tattoos. It was his brother that got him interested in wrestling and led him to Freezer Burn to begin his training.
Apparently, all that had changed once upon a time in New York. During his wild days, Eric was not a sophisticate. He had enjoyed being the bad boy, the wild one and the one man women could not tame. During this time he met a woman from a good family name, and they began seeing each other. They had fallen in love, but fate had worked against them.
The woman had a famous last name, but her family money had been drained away years before. Her father was broke, her brother was destitute and she herself was only a few months from the same. Unbeknownst to Julia, her father had arranged marriage to one of the men from the newly crowned rich in the 'dot com' industry.
The union was like something out of the old world. The parents arranged it, and the son wanted the family connections to further his own ambitions. Julia had been married once before, but such issues could be overlooked in such new times. However, the womans relationship with Eric Hawk could not be overlooked.
Eric was a wild spirit, and he was not ready to settle down. Despite her love, she sacrificed her own feelings for her family. What she never told Eric was she had been pregnant at the time of their separation. Six months later, and only two months after the marriage, Julia gave birth to twins.
Julia remained silent for six years, but on a chance meeting in New York Eric met his children. A man cannot be blinded forever, and as he stared into his own face in his son and the face of the women in his family Eric knew the truth.
Angry and confused, Eric confronted her later away from the children. Julia confessed, but she and her husband had ignored the issue to keep their union whole and to protect the children.
Eric Hawk was not a poor man, and he had connections in the legal world as well. Threatening action, they came to a decision about the children. Eric would be their uncle, and would be allowed to visit. When the children came of age, they would be told the truth about their father.
Julias father died thanks to a drunken driver, but she and Eric were never together again. He harbored too much resentment at her failed attempt to conceal his children from him. The letter revealed that Eric had visited the children at least once a month whenever possible, but now he was forced to hide from them.
They never wanted for anything, although to be sure he had set-up handsome trusts in their names in case anything ever went wrong. Eric asked his brother to become Uncle to the children. He could no longer see them until this business was settled, but Tommy must be sure they were cared for in case anything ever happened.
So now Tommy Hawk stood outside on the stoop while a little Guatemalan maid went to get the lady of the house. He didnt know what he should tell her, but she must be made aware of the danger the children would be in if the truth were ever discovered. Some precautions would need to be taken.
The lady of the house came to the door. Tommy could imagine how utterly amazing she would have looked ten years ago when she and Eric had met, because now as she stood barely closer to forty than thirty she was a ravishing beauty with sandy blonde hair falling around a soft, delicate face.
“May I help you?” She asked, seeing something extremely familiar in the man, but knowing she did not recognize him.
“Yes maam. My name is Tommy Hawk; Eric Hawk is my brother. I need to speak with you concerning Eric and the two little matters between you and he.” Tommy spoke calmly.
Julia was worried, but she stepped aside and motioned him in. “Please come in. Lets talk in the den.”
Julia led him down the hallway and into an open room. The entire house had been redone recently; using a very modern look inside with the same classical look outside was an interesting paradox. She offered him a seat on the couch, then took a seat on the couch across the large coffee table.
“Would you like something to drink Tommy?” She asked.
Tommy smiled, ”No thank you, Im fine.”
“Youll have to forgive my shock, but your brother and I had agreed to keep such matters private.” Julia seemed nervous; ”We did not want to burden the children with this information until they were old enough to understand the truth. With Iseas passing, things have become even more complicated.”
“I understand, and I would not be here unless the matter was of the most urgent nature.” Tommy assured her.
There was a flush come over Julia. She had real concern on her face. Tommy thought the emotions from the past still remained, and he got the feeling from the letter Eric had rebuked her efforts to rekindle the relationship they had lost long ago.
“Is Eric okay?” She said quickly.
“He is recovering. There are matters I cannot discuss, but Eric was seriously injured by people who wished to do our family harm. You would not find such information in any paper, news report or gossip column. As far as anyone is concerned, Eric is on an extended vacation. He will not return for some time.” Tommy began. He kept his voice calm and reasoned trying to alleviate the heavy burden of his statement.
Julia seemed to morph through a series of emotions before regaining her composure, ”So he will not be visiting anymore?”
”He cannot.” Tommy looked down. ”I did not even know about Erics children until recently when he told me. I had to dig through private records for three days to get a hint of the money he has been putting aside for them. No one else other than myself knows this information, and it must remain this way.”
“Im not telling anyone!” Julia snapped. “I dont want this to get out! I loved your brother, but I married Isae for my familys sake. Such news would damage their family, and I must prevent that.”
“Of course.” Tommy looked her right in the eyes, “There is a danger.”
“What danger?” Julia didnt catch on.
“There are men trying to hurt Eric.”
“So?”
“These are not men above hurting a man through his family.” Tommy watched to ensure she understood.
“You mean my children ”
Tommy nodded, “If anyone found out.”
Julia leapt up off the sofa, “You coming here could put them in danger!”
“no.”
Julia pointed an accusing finger at her as her voice raised, “Yes! They might know you’re here!”
Tommy stood up slowly. He made sure his arms were slightly away from his body, giving him even greater size than he already had over the five foot six woman. He was a monster before her, but his voices power came without much of an increase in volume. “Sit down and lower your voice Julia, now.”
The directness and power seemed to snap her back to reality. The children were at home, and neither of them wanted to upset them. She sat back down and looked carefully at the man across from her. She had just seen the same intensity and power Eric used to swagger around with all the time. Tommy Hawk was more up front, and much less fun loving than her former lover, but such reserve was not to be underestimated. He had all the power and strength of his brother and then some to spare.
“They are not in harms way because I have seen to it for today. I cannot return to the house though. Coming back would endanger them. I am here to let you know someone else will come to visit. He will check on you and the children. Another friend will be available if anything should ever frighten you, or worry you. He is a friend here locally, and he can protect you if the need arises.” Tommy was back to the civil, conversational tone.
Julia was struggling with what to do. Her children were in danger from the man who refused to love her anymore.
”Everything will be fine.” Tommy continued. “Today, I want to meet my niece and nephew, and next week my friend John Peters will be here. Hell visit once a month, just like Eric used to do.”
“How will I know him?” Julia was beginning think smartly now, a mother protecting her cubs.
Tommy pulled a picture out from the inside jacket pocket, “Here he is. He will be carrying a cane. Theres no one I trust more than this man. On the back are my numbers, Hawks numbers and the number of a friend of ours living in New York named Dre. He can respond most quickly in an emergency, but we dont expect that to happen.”
“I just I cant believe all of this.” Julia was lost.
Tommy stood up. He walked around the coffee table and offered his hand to her. She allowed him to help her up, ”Julia, I dont know you and you dont know me. Trust me when I say I will not allow anything to happen to my brothers children. I would give my life to protect them. I just learned about them, and my heart is breaking not being able to embrace them and tell them what is happening.”
‘Eric spoke of you in respective terms. He knows youre a strong woman. He was angry about you not telling him, and the man can hold a grudge. He still loves you a little bit though, and that will never change. You just stay strong for your children, and act as though nothing is wrong because it isnt. No one will bother you, but if it were to happen there are people to protect you. Understand?”
Julia took several deep breaths, preventing the tears from forming and falling. “I understand. Do you want to meet them?”
“If youll allow it.”
“Of course I will. Eric normally takes them to a show or shopping, but this time Im just going to introduce you. What should I say about where Eric is? Julia wondered how to cover it.”
“Theyre children, tell them hes away for a long time on business. Hell be back to see them, but their Uncle Tommy and Uncle John will be visiting now.” Tommy thought that sounded good.
Julia liked the sound of that. She walked over to the doorway and called upstairs, “Thomas! Alexandria! Please come down here! I want you to meet someone!”
Thomas and Alexandria? Tommy felt his insides twist and break as he heard his brother's middle name for the first time since choldhood.
“I named him after Eric and his .. and your .. mother. I did love him.” She said as she put the picture in an antique box on the shelf by the doorway.
Tommy Hawk felt his world spin. Something about the simple names brought it all back, but he fought it off. The twins came bounding down the stairs into the room. They were fraternal twins, not identical. Best in the long run as Erics genes in facial features would not make for a handsome woman. Tommy was one of the few people to know what Eric had looked like with hair, and he was looking at it right now in the young boy. The girl was cute, and had inherited the strong body from her father and graceful features of her mother.
“Yes mom.” Alexandria asked.
Thomas was more precautious, “What is it mom?”
“Thomas, be polite.” She lightly scolded him. “I want to introduce you to Uncle Erics brother. This is Uncle Tommy.”
The two children looked up at the large man.
”Hes even bugger than Eric!” Thomas exclaimed.
Alexandria hid behind her mother.
Tommy was all smiles as he stepped forward. He bent down slightly and offered his hand to Thomas, “Good to meet you Thomas.”
Thomas shook his hand. Tommy acted like the young boys grip might break his hand, “You’re a strong young man Thomas. I bet youre one of the strongest kids in school!”
“The strongest!” Thomas replied.
“Dont be boastful Thomas.” Julia said from behind.
“Its true mom!” Thomas said without looking back.” I can do more push-ups and pull-ups than any of the other kids!”
“Youre a strong young man!” Tommy was nodding.
Julias look of concern slice through him.
“A pleasure to meet you young man.” Tommy walked past Thomas and kneeled down in front of Julia. He poked his head around her to look at his niece, ”Hello Alexandria. Thats a beautiful name you have there.”
She was shy, looking at him briefly then looking away. “Thank you.”
Eric stood back up, not wanting to force her.
“Kids, Uncle Eric had to take a long business trip overseas. Uncle Tommy is going to join him, but they didnt want you to think they forgot about you. So their other brother, Uncle John is going to come visit you.”
”When will Eric come again?” Thomas inquired.
“As soon as he can.” Tommy nodded at the youngster. “He promises.”
They seemed disappointed.
"I've seen you on TV." piped up Thomas with some sense of eagerness.
Julia didnt want the moment to linger, “Back upstairs, and finish your homework.”
“Mom!”
“Mommy!”
Neither liked the idea.
“Upstairs.” She rubbed their heads as they left.
“Nice to meet you Uncle Tommy.” Thomas said before racing upstairs.
Alexandria just grinned then ran off.
Tommy watched them run off, ”They seem like amazing kids Julia.”
‘They are.”
There was an awkward pause between them.
“I should be off. Expect John to call on you next week.” Tommy smiled before heading out of the house. He descended the stairs to the car still waiting on him.
The drive to the Sofitel only took ten minutes in sparse traffic. He pulled up to the huge window and Tommy peered inside from behind the tinted glass. He could see the patrons, but he was really staring behind the bar.
The shoulder length blonde hair seemed to bounce with energy as she moved about the bar filling orders. She had that kind of gregarious, energetic aura that infected everyone around her. Those cool blue eyes welcoming even the hardest stares until they relented.
There she was, the woman who could easily help him forget all of his troubles and pain. He could even forget that she’s white skinned. Just a word and they would be together again, but he had to remember the cost. She would be put in danger, she would be known to Tommy and his people.
He ignored the thoughts, remembering everything he imagined with her. Eric had children he now knew, and he could have children too. They had discussed it, spoken about it on numerous occasions if he wanted it with her. All he had to do was ask, and she would run away with him.
Tommy grabbed the door handle, and he pulled it open unlatching the door. It had just opened when she turned and looked out the window. He could see into her eyes. He saw all the wonderful times, every smile and embrace they had ever known together. Looking into that face, he couldnt allow his own selfishness risk her face being twisted with pain.
Tommy pulled the door closed. He stared into her eyes. It was as if she knew he were there.
They pulled away, and he saw her shake her head and return to work before they pulled off. He looked out the window at the passing landscape of cars, people and storefronts realizing just how lonely he was in the world. He had isolated himself completely.
He just never realized how much it could hurt until just now. Luckily, his chosen career offered him a release for such anguish and frustration, and there were plenty of people he could target this PPV. Spencer Adams, CJ Phoenix and Lester Parish would thoroughly ensure he would have enough victims to expend the excessive emotional trauma, and replace it with the warm, vibrant feeling of mortal wounds of the flesh. He may have exerted every use of his dark magic from the little he knew before in Mexico, but for a change, something in the air gave him the aura of never needing it again as the chain reaction had already begun to protect those worth protecting.
“Family is taken care of. Showdown is mine.”
Nighttime.
Night was always a time man feared. Something about the darkness seemed to imply evil and danger in the very fiber of man. Even the Native American Indian tribes of North America did not hunt man or beast at night, preferring to camp down and build fires.
That belief was so engrained that the tribes rarely even put up guards or sentries out to guard. That fact had been utilized by the Army against the Indians to force great devastation and misery upon the peoples of the plains.
The night was friendly place for many beasts of the land though, and humans could be trained to overcome the night and the effects of night. He was such a man, fueled by the unholy power within.
The man walking the streets of Tijuana was shrouded behind the long hair hanging loosely about his head. The blue jeans and button up shirt were the same that anyone on these streets wore.
Tom O Hawk was among the denizens of the depraved world once again, using subtlety to slip back into control of the world. This allowed him the freedom and access to come here to the streets of Tijuana, where anything and everything was available at his fingertips.
Tommy saw the undertones of this world like others did not. The small groups of three or four men keeping their eyes on the streetwalkers were not interested in their services, but rather the wallets of those they serviced. Working in concert they would roll any big spenders and shuffle off to another area. The other streetwalkers were thin, too thin to be natural and too thin to be caused by lack of food per se, rather lack of food because the heroin didnt make you hungry. Much the opposite, the heroin made you forget the very idea of food.
Many more dark tones reigned on the street, and this is where Tommy made his home. This was his comfort zone, but Tijuana had all sorts of things to offer. One of the businesses that thrived was the business of magic, the black or the white. Magic was simply an additional avenue to power.
Tommy was tapped into the occurrences of the world through means no one would understand.The connection between physical and spirit realm is the world we live in. His heritage and ancestry saw to it he had this in spades..
Tommy knew that there was a woman, a bruja of little skill who had been involved for a short time period before passing the duties off to another bruja. Of course, seeing this woman would not be difficult. She saw many people to help with the kinds of small problems they were used to.
The woman whose name he did not yet know was located atop a small strip club. That in and of itself surprised him, but he realized she was simply another source of consolation to the lost souls who went to the club.
This strip club was just like many in Tijuana, where you could get a lap dance and then be entertained by something even much more intimate if you had enough pesos.
The path to find the club was guided by the senses he had, not directions. The person was not far away, taking lefts and right like someone from TJ would. He was following the scent, the feel in the air.
Here it was, a dirty two-storied building with not much happening outside. There were words painted on the walls, but he did not care about them. Instead, he moved around to the entrance.
The man sitting on the stool was at least four hundred pounds supported by an out of shape five and a half foot frame. His greasy hair was thinning and food and debris were in the scraggily beard on his face, but the smell from the man was the worst thing. And Hawk could only chuckle under his breath at how this man reminded him of a seriously out of contention version of T.U.B.
Tommy ignored the name of the club, simply entering with a nod to the doorman. He walked inside and took a look around. This was the kind of place he expected, but even it was lower than he originally pictured.
The stages were filled with women dancing, not one or two but dozens. There were men throughout the half filled club, some with women on their laps talking, others receiving a lap dance and many more in the corners or against the walls receiving head from their strippers. He watched one of the dancers take a man with her to the back, entering a small booth no doubt to have intercourse.
This was the type of den that you could do anything at and find anything at. He had been to these places before during his military life, and he had been home here. He had been away for so long he wanted to take a piece, but there were more pressing duties than the desires of his loins and flesh. He could ignore the remains of his mortality, his fleshly desires.
Tommy walked over to the bar and took one of the empty stools. The man seated on his right was tall and powerfully built. Black jeans and black leather vest were the only clothes covering his body, but there was plenty of ink partnered with it to cover him.
The man looked at Tommy, “¡Alguien está sentando allí a gringo! ¡Levántese!” (Someone is sitting there gringo! Get up!)
Tommy looked back at the man, his own eyes burning into this mans powered by all the hatred within. He looked over at the man, dismissing him instantly as an ego-inflated blowhard.” Me estoy sentando aquí. Ahora el movimiento lejos y nosotros no tendremos un problema.” (Im sitting here. Now move away and we wont have a problem.)
The man looked rebuked.
“¡Usted hijo de una perra! ¿Voy a?” (You son of a bitch! Im going to ) The man was about to point at Tommy, but he would not be allowed to insult him in such a way.
Tommy grabbed the mans finger and bent it all the way back until he was holding onto the mans hand with the finger broken, dislocated and bent in ways it never should have been.
The man dropped down to his knees, crying out in pain. His hand had just been destroyed, never to fully recover for the rest of his life. He was looking up at the man, but he suddenly realized that this was not a man but a monster. A demon from Hell come to punish him.
“Ahora vaya lejos, y nunca preocúpeme otra vez.” (Now go away, and never trouble me again.) Tommy said plainly. He shoved the man down onto his back then turned to the bartender.” Déme tres tiros de tequila, estante superior, y el don?t me da cualquier regado abajo del crap.” (Give me three shots of tequila, top shelf, and dont give me any watered down crap.)
The bartender quickly went to the end of the bar and opened a sliding cabinet. He pulled out a bottle of Patron Anejo Tequila. He moved over to the man and set three shot glasses out before him.
Behind the man the biker was leaving, not wanting to look at this longhaired gringo anymore. The bartender poured the three shots and looked at the man.
Tommy downed the first shot, savoring the flavor of the fine tequila. He then followed with the next two shots. He grabbed the bottle from the bartender, “¿Dónde está la bruja?” (Where is the witch?)
The bartender looked to the back where the sex booths were, ”Encima de las escaleras por las cabinas. Ella está allí.” (Up the stairs by the booths. She is there.)
“Gracias.” (Thank you.) Tommy threw a few ten dollar bills on the bar to pay for the half bottle of tequila. He took the bottle with him and headed for the stairs. He was happily surprised no one paid attention to him because scuffles and fights were so routine here.
Tommy walked past the crowd, ignoring the blowjobs and naked women as he moved to the stairs. Many of the booths doors were left open, and he saw the dirty workers after long days of work @#%$ the women in the booth or performing even more depraved acts.
Tommy stopped at the stairs and looked up. He slowly began climbing up the stairs, looking forward to the meeting he was about to have. This was simply a small step, little action in a larger plan. This would send shockwaves and fear through the forces aligned against him and in turn send shockwaves of changes throughout his wrestling career.
At the top of the stairs was simple wooden door with several symbols painted on it and handmade symbols hung from the wood. He opened the door and walked inside the room. There was a line of chairs against the right wall, and none of the chairs was occupied.
Tommy sat down on the chair and took a sip from the bottle.
After several minutes a voice came out to him from behind the slightly open door against the wall opposite the entrance.
“Venido en hombre joven.” (Come in young man.) The old womans voice said.
Tommy stood up and moved to the door. He pushed the door open, stepped inside and shut the door behind him.
The room was dark, lit only by a few candles in the corners. The center of the room had a low table covered with wax from the many candles burned on it before, but the middle of the table was kept clean and clear. The walls were lined with shelves containing dried herbs, bottles of oils and liquids and all manner of handmade charms and symbols.
The woman sitting on a pillow at the table was older, in her late fifties although her body was kept fit and trim by her exercise routine. She liked her yoga and running to keep her body and mind linked in health.
A simple white shirt paired with a black skirt with colorful designs and flowers on it covered her body.
Tommy took another sip from the tequila bottle.
“No hay necesidad de una botella de valor aquí. Usted es seguro.” (There is no need for a bottle of courage here. You are safe.) The bruja said.
“¿Cuál es su nombre?” (What is your name?) Tommy asked as he sat down on the pillow opposite of the woman.
The woman smiled kindly, ”Mi nombre es Doña Gracia, y le ayudaré mi amigo. ¿”Qué apuros usted? (My name is Doña Gracia, and I will help you my friend. What troubles you?)
Tommy took another sip, then looked up at the woman. His eyes were cold and dangerous,” ¿Usted no me conoce?” (You dont know me?) Tommy was smiling now, enjoying the advantages he had here.
“No.”
“Soy él reborn del fuego y furia. No puedo ser parado o ser silenciado. Soy el messiah oscuro... que usted ha trabajado contra mis agentes. Usted ha proporcionado consuelo a mis enemigos mientras que me pide más energía. ¿Qué debo hacer con alguien como usted que me traicionaría?” (I am He reborn of fire and fury. I cannot be stopped or silenced. I am the Dark Messiah you have worked against my agents. You have provided solace to my enemies while asking me for more power. What should I do with someone like you who would betray me?)
The womans eyes went wide. She felt the power of the man grow over her, and she could sense nothing outside of the room. Her heart seemed to stop momentarily, and she wanted to flee, but there was no fleeing this man.
“Había trabajo que usted se realizó, magia usted se realizó. En el extremo, usted era demasiado débil y absurdo para esto. Usted pasó esta tarea encendido alguien más de gran alcance que usted. Simplemente dígame que éste era. Dígame lo que deseo, y le dejaré para continuar estos servicios trifling que usted ofrece a los hombres después de que acaben con las putas abajo.” (There was work you performed, magic you performed. In the end, you were too weak and foolish for this. You passed this task on to someone more powerful than you. Simply tell me who this was. Tell me what I want, and I will leave you to continue these trifling services you offer to the men after they finish with the whores downstairs.)
Her options were limited here. She had to make a decision, and her heart would not allow her to simply give into this beast of the field. She reached under the table, feeling the sculpted handle of the knife there. She felt the grip, but she also felt his power across the breech between them. He was speaking the truth.
“Le diré que su nombre, pero yo necesite algo.” (I will tell you his name, but I need something.) Bold were her words, and she had the determined look in her eyes to back up her thoughts.
Tommy enjoyed this, “¿Usted estipularía con mí?” (You would bargain with me?)
“Sí, haría un comercio.” (Yes, I would make a trade.) She leaned back now.
Tommy allowed her to act as a confident woman. He could break her, take her down and force the information out of her easily enough. That would bring the authorities, and greater scrutiny on what Malum was working on here below the border. ”Para una puta, usted tiene bolas enormes. Dígame lo que usted desea, y si no me molesta le lo concederé.” (For a whore, you have huge balls. Tell me what you want, and if it does not annoy me I shall grant it to you.)
“Hay un hombre en el policía federal que nos ha incomodado, intentado tomar el dinero de nosotros y parar mi práctica aquí. Topping de Bys yo, él trabaja indirectamente contra usted también. Pido solamente usted quitarlo de modo que pueda continuar sirviéndole, señor.” (There is a man in the federal police who has bothered us, tried to take money from us and stop my practice here. Bys topping me, he indirectly works against you as well. I only ask for you to remove him so that I may continue to serve you, Lord.)
“Una bruja con una lengüeta torcida. La haré, porque capitán Morales ha cruzado las trayectorias con mí antes.” (A witch with a twisted tongue. I will do it, because Captain Morales has crossed paths with me before.)
“Sí, sé de quién usted habla. Ahora, déjenos hablan de quién ha estado trabajando contra mí, pero de quién es también bastante sly seguir encubierto.” (Yes, I know of whom you speak. Now, lets talk about who has been working against me, but who is also sly enough to remain concealed.)
They began speaking. She told him everything he needed to know. The man was good, and now he would be given a choice, and his selfishness would not outlast his need for life.
Tijuana, Mexico
Later that night
He made his way through the streets with ease. This was the kind of event you walked to, and possibly drove away from. He had the needed item in his back pocket. He finally reaches the home. This man, El Diabólico, Gilberto Rodriguez Pereyra was a man who lived well in this upscale neighborhood. The homes here were at least half a million dollars US. Something about this area reminded him of JFK, and his need to landishly exploit his wealth to all around him.
This was not a gated or guarded community though, and that worked to Tommys advantage. He walked right up the steps with the manicured bushes and well kept yard. He walked right up to the door and knocked.
The lights on inside the house indicated that at least someone in the home was still awake. In this business, odd hours were kept as a matter of course. Who knew when such specialty help would be needed after all?
Finally, someone came to the door. The heavy wooden door was pulled open revealing a young woman in khakis and a tee shirt. ”¿Sí? ¿Cómo puedo ayudarle?” (Yes? How can I help you?)
Tommy smiled, his charm turning on for the young woman. “Sí, urgente estoy del cuestión del una del en de Gilberto Rodriguez Pereyra del buscando.” (Yes, I am looking for Gilberto Rodriguez Pereyra on an urgent matter.)
The young woman nodded, ”Él es mi padre. Por favor, venga en y espere en la biblioteca y lo conseguiré.” (He is my father. Please, come in and wait in the library and I will get him.)
The woman opened the door and pointed to the right. Tommy smiled and walked into the library. The walls were covered with bookshelves containing thousands of leather bound volumes. The entire house did not speak of the work the man did.
A picture on one of the shelves got his attention. There was a man, older and distinguished looking. He was slender, and there was a woman with him flanked by the same young woman he had just met and an even younger boy.
The family? Tommy thought to himself.
His thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of a man. He was alone. Rodriguez was a slender man with a placid, sober expression, conspicuously red hair and lots of jewelry on his person. Silver rings depicting an owl, a skull and a serpent; gold, amber, red, black and jade necklaces, the last of which contained the spiked teeth of an animal Tommy did not recognize.
He spoke in a calm voice, “No creo que hemos satisfecho a sir”. (I do not believe we have met sir.)
“No, no hemos tenido el placer, pero su reputación se separa de par en par y lejos.” (No, we have not had the pleasure, but your reputation spreads wide and far.) Tommy explained.
They shook hands, each offering a firm grip. The man took notice at the ease in which his hand seemed nearly crushed under to hoof of the larger Cherokee.
“¿Cómo puedo estar de ayuda?” (How may I be of assistance?) He asked.
Tommy looked the man in the eyes,” Hay una bruja que intenta causarme gran daño.” (There is a witch trying to cause me great harm.)
“Esto es serio. Siéntese por favor.” (This is serious. Please sit.) They both sat down in chairs facing each other.
“Sí absolutamente.” (Yes, quite.)
“Por favor, explique esto a mí”. (Please, explain this to me.)
“Una mujer nombró originalmente a Doña Gracia intentado para dañarme. Ella es un tonto, e inepta en tales cosas. Ella pasó tan este deber encendido a una bruja mucho más de gran alcance. Este hombre tenía cuidado, el echar encanta para ocultar su identidad, encubriéndose y en el extremo él podía trabajar contra mí sin revelarse.” (Originally a woman named Doña Gracia tried to harm me. She is a fool, and inept in such things. So she passed this duty on to a much more powerful witch. This man was careful, casting charms to hide his identity, concealing himself and in the end he was able to work against me without revealing himself.)
Rodriguez shifted in his chair uncomfortably, starting to realize what was happening.
“La perra me dio un nombre del hombre que ella empleó para hacer el trabajo. Ella hizo un reparto. EL Diabólico, Gilberto Rodriguez Pereyra era el que esta' que trabajaba contra mí. Tan aquí debo verle. Soy un hombre que usted conoce que... soy renacimiento a través de fuego... soy el messiah oscuro.” (The bitch gave me a name of the man she hired to do the work. She made a deal. El Diabólico, Gilberto Rodriguez Pereyra was the one working against me. So here I am to see you. I am a man you know , I am rebirth through fire I am the Dark Messiah.) Tommy explained calmly.
Rodriguez was starting to get riled, ”¡No encuentro esto divertido! ¡Usted ahora saldrá de mi hogar!” (I do not find this funny! You will leave my home now!)
Gilberto began to rise. Tommy didnt move. The man pulled an automatic pistol from his back, but with the flick of his finger Tommy knocked the pistol away. He raised his hand up, and the man was lifted into the air. He slowly squeezed his hand, the mans entire body began pressing in upon itself as the invisible force squeezed down on his body. Gilberto wanted to scream, but he found he had no voice with which to do it.
“Esto era absurdo. Usted creyó que era un pretendiente, así que le perdonaré. Ahora usted trabajará para mí.” (This was foolish. You believed I was a pretender, so I will forgive you. Now you will work for me.) Tommy remained calm, his voice still a conversational tone so the mans family would not come barging in to complicate matters.
“¡No, nunca trabajaré para usted!” (No, I will never work for you!) He tried to sue his power to force himself free, but he was dealing with something he had never encountered. Thirty years of experience, since he was ten years old, and this had never happened.
“Vi a su hija cara a cara, y si usted sabe quiénes soy entonces usted sabe que puedo conseguir uniforme más cercano a ella. Usted también tiene una esposa hermosa, y un hijo joven. Usted hará como ordeno, declara lealtad a mí y entonces, y solamente entonces, puede usted garantizar la seguridad de su familia.” (I saw your daughter face-to-face, and if you know who I am then you know I can get even closer to her. You also have a beautiful wife, and a young son. You will do as I command, declare loyalty to me and then, and only then, can you guarantee the safety of your family.) Tommy waived a finger at the man menacingly as he hung in mid-air.
The man tried to yell, but it came out as a hoarse whisper, ”¡Usted no puede tocarlos!” (You cannot touch them!)
Tommy laughed. He was enjoying the conversation. “Yo lata, y yo voluntad a menos que usted me ayude. Solamente le estoy preguntando que hacer las mismas cosas que usted ha hecho contra otros, pero este vez las blancos estarán de mi elegir. Hay un hombre, y usted lo acosará. Usted lo perseguirá y lo torturará de cada manera posible hasta que él es así que desigual nada puede ahorrarlo. ¿Usted entiende?” (I can, and I will unless you help me. I am only asking you to do the same things you have done against others, but this time the targets will be of my choosing. There is a man, and you will harass him. You will hound him and torture him in every way possible until he is so ragged nothing can save him. Do you understand?)
Tommy waited, but he was not receiving an answer. Tommy increased the pressure of the grip. He also sent a small bolt over to the bookcase. The family portrait on the shelf cracked in half. That action got Diabolic Gilberto Rodriguez Pereyras attention,” ¿Usted entiende?” (Do you understand?)
He looked away from the man torturing him. Gilberto knew he was trapped by these circumstances. The fractured picture was something he could not let become reality, “Sí, entiendo.” (Yes, I understand.)
Tommy released his hold. The man fell back down into the chair. Gilberto looked like he had aged many years while held in the grip, “Bueno. Ahora, hay una acción que requiero para demostrar su lealtad. Hay un hombre que debe ser matado, asesinado en hecho. Usted hará eso como pacto de la sangre, señalando su lealtad a mí.” (Good. Now, theres one action I require to show your loyalty. There is a man who must be killed, murdered in fact. You will do that as a blood pact, signaling your allegiance to me.)
“¿Quién es él?” (Who is it?) Gilberto.
“Capitán Morales es su nombre, y creo que usted le conoce.” (Captain Morales is his name, and I believe you know him.)
Rosarito, Mexico
3 A.M.
The salt air rising up the rough rock wall carried the ocean humidity into his lungs. He knew he was at the moment where his familys lives would be decided. If he did as he had been instructed, then they would be safe. If he refused, then it was no stretch to say that Hell would befall them.
The steel was cold against the sensitive skin of back. He saw in the distance a pair of headlights as they came over the hill onto the top of the cliff. The Suburban pulled up next to his BMW, and parked.
The man who stepped out wore green canvas pants and a black, short sleeve tee shirt. His tanned skin and wiry muscles spoke of the mans athleticism. He walked over to his friend, and spoke in English.
“Do you know how late it is?” Captain Morales asked, annoyance easy to discern in his voice.
“Of course I do!” Gilberto fired back angrily. “I have a family Im not with! Im sorry to interrupt your partying! “
“Shut-up”! Morales snapped. “Whats the big deal?”
“Someone knows about our relationship. He came by my house. He threatened me! He threatened my family!” Gilberto didnt have to go far to find his anger at the situation. He would use his frustration to drive this performance.
“Who was it?”
Gilberto looked him right in the eye, “He said the Cartels would know him as Mr. X, and that would be a name you knew.”
Captain Morales was frozen. The man known by that name had done everything evil under the sun. Why he would be showing up now was unknown. Captain Morales paced around for a moment, ”What did he say?”
”He said that you had moved against some of his interests.” Gilberto moved his hand behind his back.
Morales shook his head, “No! I work for the Cartel! I protect all of their interests! I am one of their best men! You know this! We have worked on their behalf for years! What more could they want of us.”
Captain Morales was looking out across the ocean.
Gilberto pulled the pistol out, “He doesnt work for the Cartels anymore.”
“Who does he work for then?” Morales turned around.
The loud crack seemed to deafen him as he squeezed the trigger. Captain Morales couldnt understand what just happened. He looked down, and grabbed hold of his midsection. He pulled his hands away, and saw the sticky, red liquid covering his fingers. The look of confusion morphed in slow motion into confusion over the betrayal.
Captain Morales moves forward, and Gilberto shot him again. Morales fell into him, and so he continued pulling the trigger until he had emptied the entire magazine. Captain Morales fell down to his knees, and looked up at his friend. None of this made sense n to Gilberto.
“¿Por qué usted me ha traicionado? Dios Querido…” Morales fell to the ground dead.
Gilberto dropped the pistol. He saw the blood stains on his short, and tears began poiuring out of his eyes. He had crossed the line into new territory, dark, murky waters that had no real firm footing. He couldnt believe what he had done.
The hand on his shoulder startled him, causing him to literally jump. Tommy smiled, ”No reason to worry. You did as you had to do.”
Tommy kneeled down. He ripped open where the bullets had torn into the flesh. Hand covered in blood, he marked symbols upon Gilberto as he spoke.
“
?? ? ?? ?? ??. ? ? ? ??, ? ?? ? ? ?? ? ? ?? ?? ? ?? ??” Tommy smiled as the ceremony completed. “What was that?” Gilberto asked as he kept staring at the dead body.
“The bond, which cannot be broken.” Tommy explained. He put his arm over the mans shoulders, “Walk with me, and let us speak of what you will do now and to whom you shall do it.”
New York City, New York
Apartment Building
4:30 PM
Now that he was all by himself in his quest, there was less strain on his time. He had shifted almost all responsibilities away from himself, but there were some things he was duty bound to do as a brother and a friend.
The letter had been recieved just a day befor with him in Chicago. He had almost tossed the hand-addressed letter aside before realizing what it was he was holding in the mail sort. Very few people took the time to hand write letters anymore, and even those who did didnt normally use such an expensive brand of paper.
The handwriting he didnt recognize because no one wrote out by hand anymore. Everything was all emails and text message, anything hand written was now printed chicken scratches, but in the event a letter was written it was simply typed and printed for consumption. Instead, the ivory colored linen paper had been handwritten by his brother due to the sensitive subject.
Eric had always been an immensely private individual. He never shared his personal life outside of his immediate family. Of course, like many wrestlers, Eric had experienced his wild days. During that time, he had competed extensively in Texas, New York and Japan. He had many loves, but none were ever closer to brother Eric than pizza and tattoos. It was his brother that got him interested in wrestling and led him to Freezer Burn to begin his training.
Apparently, all that had changed once upon a time in New York. During his wild days, Eric was not a sophisticate. He had enjoyed being the bad boy, the wild one and the one man women could not tame. During this time he met a woman from a good family name, and they began seeing each other. They had fallen in love, but fate had worked against them.
The woman had a famous last name, but her family money had been drained away years before. Her father was broke, her brother was destitute and she herself was only a few months from the same. Unbeknownst to Julia, her father had arranged marriage to one of the men from the newly crowned rich in the 'dot com' industry.
The union was like something out of the old world. The parents arranged it, and the son wanted the family connections to further his own ambitions. Julia had been married once before, but such issues could be overlooked in such new times. However, the womans relationship with Eric Hawk could not be overlooked.
Eric was a wild spirit, and he was not ready to settle down. Despite her love, she sacrificed her own feelings for her family. What she never told Eric was she had been pregnant at the time of their separation. Six months later, and only two months after the marriage, Julia gave birth to twins.
Julia remained silent for six years, but on a chance meeting in New York Eric met his children. A man cannot be blinded forever, and as he stared into his own face in his son and the face of the women in his family Eric knew the truth.
Angry and confused, Eric confronted her later away from the children. Julia confessed, but she and her husband had ignored the issue to keep their union whole and to protect the children.
Eric Hawk was not a poor man, and he had connections in the legal world as well. Threatening action, they came to a decision about the children. Eric would be their uncle, and would be allowed to visit. When the children came of age, they would be told the truth about their father.
Julias father died thanks to a drunken driver, but she and Eric were never together again. He harbored too much resentment at her failed attempt to conceal his children from him. The letter revealed that Eric had visited the children at least once a month whenever possible, but now he was forced to hide from them.
They never wanted for anything, although to be sure he had set-up handsome trusts in their names in case anything ever went wrong. Eric asked his brother to become Uncle to the children. He could no longer see them until this business was settled, but Tommy must be sure they were cared for in case anything ever happened.
So now Tommy Hawk stood outside on the stoop while a little Guatemalan maid went to get the lady of the house. He didnt know what he should tell her, but she must be made aware of the danger the children would be in if the truth were ever discovered. Some precautions would need to be taken.
The lady of the house came to the door. Tommy could imagine how utterly amazing she would have looked ten years ago when she and Eric had met, because now as she stood barely closer to forty than thirty she was a ravishing beauty with sandy blonde hair falling around a soft, delicate face.
“May I help you?” She asked, seeing something extremely familiar in the man, but knowing she did not recognize him.
“Yes maam. My name is Tommy Hawk; Eric Hawk is my brother. I need to speak with you concerning Eric and the two little matters between you and he.” Tommy spoke calmly.
Julia was worried, but she stepped aside and motioned him in. “Please come in. Lets talk in the den.”
Julia led him down the hallway and into an open room. The entire house had been redone recently; using a very modern look inside with the same classical look outside was an interesting paradox. She offered him a seat on the couch, then took a seat on the couch across the large coffee table.
“Would you like something to drink Tommy?” She asked.
Tommy smiled, ”No thank you, Im fine.”
“Youll have to forgive my shock, but your brother and I had agreed to keep such matters private.” Julia seemed nervous; ”We did not want to burden the children with this information until they were old enough to understand the truth. With Iseas passing, things have become even more complicated.”
“I understand, and I would not be here unless the matter was of the most urgent nature.” Tommy assured her.
There was a flush come over Julia. She had real concern on her face. Tommy thought the emotions from the past still remained, and he got the feeling from the letter Eric had rebuked her efforts to rekindle the relationship they had lost long ago.
“Is Eric okay?” She said quickly.
“He is recovering. There are matters I cannot discuss, but Eric was seriously injured by people who wished to do our family harm. You would not find such information in any paper, news report or gossip column. As far as anyone is concerned, Eric is on an extended vacation. He will not return for some time.” Tommy began. He kept his voice calm and reasoned trying to alleviate the heavy burden of his statement.
Julia seemed to morph through a series of emotions before regaining her composure, ”So he will not be visiting anymore?”
”He cannot.” Tommy looked down. ”I did not even know about Erics children until recently when he told me. I had to dig through private records for three days to get a hint of the money he has been putting aside for them. No one else other than myself knows this information, and it must remain this way.”
“Im not telling anyone!” Julia snapped. “I dont want this to get out! I loved your brother, but I married Isae for my familys sake. Such news would damage their family, and I must prevent that.”
“Of course.” Tommy looked her right in the eyes, “There is a danger.”
“What danger?” Julia didnt catch on.
“There are men trying to hurt Eric.”
“So?”
“These are not men above hurting a man through his family.” Tommy watched to ensure she understood.
“You mean my children ”
Tommy nodded, “If anyone found out.”
Julia leapt up off the sofa, “You coming here could put them in danger!”
“no.”
Julia pointed an accusing finger at her as her voice raised, “Yes! They might know you’re here!”
Tommy stood up slowly. He made sure his arms were slightly away from his body, giving him even greater size than he already had over the five foot six woman. He was a monster before her, but his voices power came without much of an increase in volume. “Sit down and lower your voice Julia, now.”
The directness and power seemed to snap her back to reality. The children were at home, and neither of them wanted to upset them. She sat back down and looked carefully at the man across from her. She had just seen the same intensity and power Eric used to swagger around with all the time. Tommy Hawk was more up front, and much less fun loving than her former lover, but such reserve was not to be underestimated. He had all the power and strength of his brother and then some to spare.
“They are not in harms way because I have seen to it for today. I cannot return to the house though. Coming back would endanger them. I am here to let you know someone else will come to visit. He will check on you and the children. Another friend will be available if anything should ever frighten you, or worry you. He is a friend here locally, and he can protect you if the need arises.” Tommy was back to the civil, conversational tone.
Julia was struggling with what to do. Her children were in danger from the man who refused to love her anymore.
”Everything will be fine.” Tommy continued. “Today, I want to meet my niece and nephew, and next week my friend John Peters will be here. Hell visit once a month, just like Eric used to do.”
“How will I know him?” Julia was beginning think smartly now, a mother protecting her cubs.
Tommy pulled a picture out from the inside jacket pocket, “Here he is. He will be carrying a cane. Theres no one I trust more than this man. On the back are my numbers, Hawks numbers and the number of a friend of ours living in New York named Dre. He can respond most quickly in an emergency, but we dont expect that to happen.”
“I just I cant believe all of this.” Julia was lost.
Tommy stood up. He walked around the coffee table and offered his hand to her. She allowed him to help her up, ”Julia, I dont know you and you dont know me. Trust me when I say I will not allow anything to happen to my brothers children. I would give my life to protect them. I just learned about them, and my heart is breaking not being able to embrace them and tell them what is happening.”
‘Eric spoke of you in respective terms. He knows youre a strong woman. He was angry about you not telling him, and the man can hold a grudge. He still loves you a little bit though, and that will never change. You just stay strong for your children, and act as though nothing is wrong because it isnt. No one will bother you, but if it were to happen there are people to protect you. Understand?”
Julia took several deep breaths, preventing the tears from forming and falling. “I understand. Do you want to meet them?”
“If youll allow it.”
“Of course I will. Eric normally takes them to a show or shopping, but this time Im just going to introduce you. What should I say about where Eric is? Julia wondered how to cover it.”
“Theyre children, tell them hes away for a long time on business. Hell be back to see them, but their Uncle Tommy and Uncle John will be visiting now.” Tommy thought that sounded good.
Julia liked the sound of that. She walked over to the doorway and called upstairs, “Thomas! Alexandria! Please come down here! I want you to meet someone!”
Thomas and Alexandria? Tommy felt his insides twist and break as he heard his brother's middle name for the first time since choldhood.
“I named him after Eric and his .. and your .. mother. I did love him.” She said as she put the picture in an antique box on the shelf by the doorway.
Tommy Hawk felt his world spin. Something about the simple names brought it all back, but he fought it off. The twins came bounding down the stairs into the room. They were fraternal twins, not identical. Best in the long run as Erics genes in facial features would not make for a handsome woman. Tommy was one of the few people to know what Eric had looked like with hair, and he was looking at it right now in the young boy. The girl was cute, and had inherited the strong body from her father and graceful features of her mother.
“Yes mom.” Alexandria asked.
Thomas was more precautious, “What is it mom?”
“Thomas, be polite.” She lightly scolded him. “I want to introduce you to Uncle Erics brother. This is Uncle Tommy.”
The two children looked up at the large man.
”Hes even bugger than Eric!” Thomas exclaimed.
Alexandria hid behind her mother.
Tommy was all smiles as he stepped forward. He bent down slightly and offered his hand to Thomas, “Good to meet you Thomas.”
Thomas shook his hand. Tommy acted like the young boys grip might break his hand, “You’re a strong young man Thomas. I bet youre one of the strongest kids in school!”
“The strongest!” Thomas replied.
“Dont be boastful Thomas.” Julia said from behind.
“Its true mom!” Thomas said without looking back.” I can do more push-ups and pull-ups than any of the other kids!”
“Youre a strong young man!” Tommy was nodding.
Julias look of concern slice through him.
“A pleasure to meet you young man.” Tommy walked past Thomas and kneeled down in front of Julia. He poked his head around her to look at his niece, ”Hello Alexandria. Thats a beautiful name you have there.”
She was shy, looking at him briefly then looking away. “Thank you.”
Eric stood back up, not wanting to force her.
“Kids, Uncle Eric had to take a long business trip overseas. Uncle Tommy is going to join him, but they didnt want you to think they forgot about you. So their other brother, Uncle John is going to come visit you.”
”When will Eric come again?” Thomas inquired.
“As soon as he can.” Tommy nodded at the youngster. “He promises.”
They seemed disappointed.
"I've seen you on TV." piped up Thomas with some sense of eagerness.
Julia didnt want the moment to linger, “Back upstairs, and finish your homework.”
“Mom!”
“Mommy!”
Neither liked the idea.
“Upstairs.” She rubbed their heads as they left.
“Nice to meet you Uncle Tommy.” Thomas said before racing upstairs.
Alexandria just grinned then ran off.
Tommy watched them run off, ”They seem like amazing kids Julia.”
‘They are.”
There was an awkward pause between them.
“I should be off. Expect John to call on you next week.” Tommy smiled before heading out of the house. He descended the stairs to the car still waiting on him.
The drive to the Sofitel only took ten minutes in sparse traffic. He pulled up to the huge window and Tommy peered inside from behind the tinted glass. He could see the patrons, but he was really staring behind the bar.
The shoulder length blonde hair seemed to bounce with energy as she moved about the bar filling orders. She had that kind of gregarious, energetic aura that infected everyone around her. Those cool blue eyes welcoming even the hardest stares until they relented.
There she was, the woman who could easily help him forget all of his troubles and pain. He could even forget that she’s white skinned. Just a word and they would be together again, but he had to remember the cost. She would be put in danger, she would be known to Tommy and his people.
He ignored the thoughts, remembering everything he imagined with her. Eric had children he now knew, and he could have children too. They had discussed it, spoken about it on numerous occasions if he wanted it with her. All he had to do was ask, and she would run away with him.
Tommy grabbed the door handle, and he pulled it open unlatching the door. It had just opened when she turned and looked out the window. He could see into her eyes. He saw all the wonderful times, every smile and embrace they had ever known together. Looking into that face, he couldnt allow his own selfishness risk her face being twisted with pain.
Tommy pulled the door closed. He stared into her eyes. It was as if she knew he were there.
They pulled away, and he saw her shake her head and return to work before they pulled off. He looked out the window at the passing landscape of cars, people and storefronts realizing just how lonely he was in the world. He had isolated himself completely.
He just never realized how much it could hurt until just now. Luckily, his chosen career offered him a release for such anguish and frustration, and there were plenty of people he could target this PPV. Spencer Adams, CJ Phoenix and Lester Parish would thoroughly ensure he would have enough victims to expend the excessive emotional trauma, and replace it with the warm, vibrant feeling of mortal wounds of the flesh. He may have exerted every use of his dark magic from the little he knew before in Mexico, but for a change, something in the air gave him the aura of never needing it again as the chain reaction had already begun to protect those worth protecting.
“Family is taken care of. Showdown is mine.”
