Life's Pursuit {Book 2}

Chapter 19: Dangerous Gamble

The rigid snow planet of Contraxia was a destination of many. Loki and Oveaus had begun to lose track of how long it had been since they left Alfheim but their lead was strong. Their ventures led them to the ice planet, which Loki seemed to be handling the best out of the two of them, given his Jötun blood was a formidable aid in the cold.

Contraxia was a gathering place known for its population of passing Ravagers. During a messy visit to Knowhere, the pair caught word of a group of Ravagers that had found and stashed a fractal with them after leaving another neighboring planet. This was their chance after many failures. If they could secure at least one before returning to Alfheim, there would be more hope restored.

Following the Ravagers had brought them to Contraxia, and their destination led them to the brothel known as the Iron Lotus. Even from a distance, Loki and Oveaus could see the groups of people flocking in for relaxation and pleasure. It was a dirty business and even the two princes masked repulsion the best they could. It was pleasure for Ravagers. Nothing about the Iron Lotus was appealing to them.

They stood outside of the entrance, gathering their bearings before stepping inside. Loki spoke. "Do you remember the description of their clan leader?"

Oveaus, fighting a shiver from the cold wind, hid his hands beneath his cloak but stood tall all the same. "He is of the Lem species, rumored to be a sorcerer and leads four other members in the Krugarr Ravager Clan."

"Good. We can split up to start and congregate again within the hour."

Oveaus nodded. "I can agree to that. But can we avoid action before we've reunited? I'm not exactly sure how powerful this Lem sorcerer is."

Loki took in Oveaus' words. He was more than aware about his personal lack of magic since banishment from Asgard, but Oveaus had been scarce with his own use of magic as well. While it was clear Oveaus possessed some, Loki wondered why he wouldn't use it unless absolutely necessary. This made it difficult for him to understand the elf entirely and that frustrated him.

"I won't be making contact with the fractal without you if that's what you're implying," Loki replied. They both had come to the decision that since Oveaus was the only one with magic, he should handle the fractal. It was a difficult surrender Loki had to come to terms with but he managed.

"Just wanted to make sure we are in one accord." Oveaus said, his voice smooth and showing no hint of fear. The trembling in his hands was still obvious but it was likely from the dropping temperature.

"May we be successful," Loki breathed, and the two of them split as they entered the Iron Lotus' main hub.

The temperature was noticeably warmer in the hub and Loki lifted back the hood of his own cloak upon entry. He didn't fear being recognized as he didn't expect anyone to know who he was. There were dozens of Ravagers, some huddled around tables, laughing and playing cards, while others sat at the bar drinking their fill. Loki winced at the smell of alcohol and sweat that filled the space. Asgard's ale never smelled so bitter and the sweat was foul, but no one else there seemed to mind.

Up ahead in the back of the hub, the Iron Lotus' famous Love Bots were performing on a stage for hollering Ravagers. The drunkenness was obvious as the catcalling rose above the noise. Despite the sound, Loki remained focused and thought about how he would stay blended within the crowd. He couldn't take on the form of a Ravager without his magic but his skill in stealth remained. Scanning the crowd was his best bet to begin with. Oveaus was likely doing the same. Clans usually remained banded together so if they found Krugarr the Lem, they would find the rest.

Approaching the bar, Loki observed the appearance of all who were seated. None fit the description of Krugarr but maybe he would overhear helpful conversations that would spur on his search. He tried to ignore the eyes that noticed him as he took a seat on an empty stool. Sitting there, he ignored the bartender and sharpened his ears. There had to be something he would hear, some sort of information he could use.