They had settled back in New York, immediately the Savoy Hotel played host to them and it wasn't something simple, Issei knew that during these moments, Baki would be sure to inform him what was going on in Rochester with the guest there. 

Still, there was a pause, turning to face Magnolia, he hadn't exactly offered for her to take the kill. She had to want him, after all, that happened, what came with this, what they did, they deserved their multiple pounds of flesh. Was it right that they waited for what was to be given to them?

Only he calmed down, he knew she had to get back to the way she was. Currently, that was exactly what he was waiting for, it had been a day's ride back from Rochester.

This is where he was now, a drink in hand, a smoke in the other and his hair covering him like a thick curtain. It concealed his eyes, the anger and the vengeance he wanted to claim in the name of all they had suffered, this wasn't right, not to him at the very least. He wanted this and he would make sure to get it. 

"Do we not deserve Justice? Do we not deserve to hunt them down like the dogs they are!? WHERE IS THAT VENGEANCE!?"

His voice was filled with pain, almost like the thought of going through this hurt him but he had to do it, to sate the innermost feeling of making sure that this finally came to an end, where being hunted down like dogs were something that he didn't ever wish for himself but turn it around, he would do so with others. 

Issei bowed his head, hearing the door click open as in walked in Nola, she looked different. Even she felt different, there was that former look in her eyes, something told him that something wasn't sitting well. 

"You cleaned up, how does it feel to finally have a good sort of clothes on you?"

As he was saying this, Issei took a drag from the smoke as he closed his eyes, soon crushing the butt in the crystal ashtray soon after. It wasn't something he was going to be doing for a while but currently, it happened, he needed something to take the edge off and well, his old ways certainly wouldn't help right now. 

"It's better now Issei, what about you? Are you going to shave that hair to a better standard or that beard?"

Giving her a mock look of anger, he shook his head, making his hair stand out even more as he scratched his stubble soon after. He felt that it was quite fitting, though looking down at his outfit, he did need to get more colours besides red...

"Yes, like you can talk...what about your hair? It's been in an odd bob haircut for...well, a long while now. I preferred the long hair, it made you stand out more, beautiful even."

His eyes were distant than before shaking it with a red hue settling on his cheeks for a second as he turned away, finishing up his bourbon soon after. Now wasn't the time for such things but if he could distract her for a while, he knew that it would be better for her at the very least.

Nola rolled her eyes from his comment, the bob cut was rather nice, in her opinion. It was light, it was fresh but more importantly it was easy to maintain. Raising her right arm up, bringing her hand to the base of her hair, Nola ran her hand through it. Usually she would have used two hands to do this but her left side was still rather sore and tender. Plus she still wasn’t able to lift her left arm above her head but her range of motion had improved greatly since she woke only a few days ago. 

”I kind of like it this but you’re right, it isn’t me. I already decided that I’m gonna let it grow out. So yeah... it’s just a matter of time now, however long it takes to grow. I wouldn’t hold your breath though, probably wouldn’t bode well for you.”

She gave him a subtle smile then took a seat on the couch seated across from the chair Issei was sitting at. It was a rather comfy couch, one that she basically sank right into. One that she knew she was going to have a hard time getting out of. It was something that she clearly was going to worry about later. For now it was just time to relax some.

The room itself was rather quiet, causing her to close her eyes. She was moments from falling asleep that was until she heard Issei clearing his throat. The smirk on his face when her eyes sprung opened was quite the indication that he had done it on purpose. 

”I was just closing my eyes for a moment, a long blink...”

“Oh, is that right?”

Nola nodded as she adjusted herself in the couch, sitting herself a bit closer to the edge. She focused her gaze on the empty cup sitting next to Issei. Almost immediately her body craved... yearned for the taste of bourbon. 

”Do you have any more of that?”

She motioned her head in the direction of cup, causing Issei to glance down at it.

”I do, you want one?” 

Nola nodded her head once down.

”Alright then” He stood up and walked past her, she didn’t turn her head but could hear him fumbling with something. Was either the bottle or liquor or the glass. Hell it could have been and probably was both. Wasn’t much longer until he returned standing in front of her, holding the glass just out of her reach. 

”One and done, okay? There’s no getting drunk today, we have things to do.” 

”Fine, just the one...” She extended her right arm out towards the glass. Issei being Issei, held it still just out of reach for another moment. It wasn’t until Nola gave him an evil glare that he moved it closer. Wrapping her hand around the glass, Nola pulled it from his grasp then brought it into her. She held the glass just under her nose and breathed in its scent, though she did not drink it. 

”Feels odd being here.”

Issei raised an eyebrow.

”Here as in New York... feels odd that we are here and having to hide like this. Just doesn’t feel right, I don’t like it...”

Sighing, the dragon didn't like it, standing to his feet he turned his head to see the view of the city. All they had to do was get rid of these fucks, the ones that wished to take them out, so-called Warriors, a united front of street gangs. While innovated it was something that had not been done before but without structure, a true leader, there would be squabbles, some that ended in death. 

"We're hiding because we have too but once we take care of a few loose ends Nola, once we are sure that we have the upper hand that no one is ready to even take a glimpse at us without shitting in their pants or having a thought of 'Should I do this?' We'll be ready for that time, I'm not stopping until they're dead Nola, until they pay for what they did."

His true reasoning was to make them pay, he had been so close to losing everybody. What would have happened then? The dragon shuddered to think then, looking at her, his eyes widened at the look on her face. Something wasn't right, usually, it was met with a grin or something that showed him some kind of understanding or backing at the very least. 

Yet she was still thinking to herself, she seemed tired, the way her eyes closed before. Issei didn't know how to take it, had this been too much for her? A thought that didn't occur to him, a selfish one that held his own reasons for vengeance against her health or for that matter, mentality. It had been a while since they spoke in general. 

Shaking his head, she had to be alright, didn't she? This was the crimson princess, yet there was her voice again, stabbing him with the truth. She had wanted to run away from that all, did he unknowingly bring that back to the surface? A certain carnage that it caused, was this a nail in the coffin? 

"I...I don't like it either, what we have to do to get by, it's not fair and it certainly isn't for me in any way. I just want you...I don't know...I really don't know..."

For once, he shook his head. Issei didn't know in actuality, the thinking part, the plans, the way of getting revenge, it was her thing. The tactical mind, the way she did things, he was the fighter, the observer. Being thrust into this seat, being the one to make sure that she was safe, it was different, one that was finally coming at him. 

"I just want us to get through this, with whatever means possible, and the only way I see us surviving, and living and doing what we enjoy Red is with...cleaning the house of these...fuckers!"

Issei's steely eyes locked with hers, he admitted it. He was ready to make sure that all the parties involved with this would be the one to finally play the game with them, it was different once they could hit back. 

"Okay, that's all I want. Yet, what do you want? I just need to know that I'm doing the right thing here and I'm not putting you in any more danger, cause that's the last thing I would ever want."

Issei met her eyes, a soft nature to them now as he had to almost crouch down, making sure to get this right on a level like no other. She was the one that had got him here, it was time she realized that because Issei knew that it wouldn't be the same without her.

"What I'm doing today, I don't want you feeling like you have too. I know I never asked this back in the hospital, just tell me now, and I'll understand..."

Of course, he would, he was not unreasonable but he knew that he had put a tremendous amount of pressure on her. Was she tired? It certainly looked the case. Issei was willing to let her stay out of it if it would protect her in whatever way possible. 

Scenario after scenario played out through her head as she sat there idly on the couch. Each of which did not have a good ending. Was this really the case? Or was this just her mind trying to tell her something? Was it time to just call it quits... was it time to just go home? It was a rather promising idea, she would be safe there... they would be safe. It would be like the good ole days, well except Issei would be there. She was quite sure that he would fit in quite well. Smiling at the thought of it, at the thought of what could be.

”Nola?” 

His voice brought her back to the present, back to her on the couch, with the glass of bourbon in her hands.

”Huh?” 

”Are you okay... okay with this?”

She wasn’t really sure how to answer it. So to give herself another moment to ponder on it, Nola brought the glass up to her lips. The thought was to take a sip but there was something different about it now. The scent... it was no longer sweet, it was no longer tempting. It almost had a smell of decay, a smell of death wafting off of it. It immediately made her nauseous. 

”Ugh... what did you put in this glass?” 

Issei eyes glanced upon the glass in her hand with a bit of a confused look upon his face. “Bourbon? Why?” 

”Oh...” Nola glanced back down before raising up once more, taking another whiff. It still smelled the same, was still off putting. With the want to drink it now gone, Nola leaned over and placed it onto the end table then re situated herself onto the couch. 

”Uh...” She could see Issei wanted to inquire about what had just transpired with the bourbon incident but for some reason he shrugged it off and went back to what he initially wanted to know. “You still haven’t told me what you want...”

She went to open her mouth but quickly closed it then proceeded to take in a rather deep breath. One that she exhaled slowly, she was pretty sure that he wasn’t going to like what was next to come out of her. Though it was something she felt she needed to ask. 

”Well... I was kind of thinking...” she paused for a moment, for some reason she was nervous. Why she had the slightest idea but she knew she needed to continue. “What if we just got out of here? I can’t remember completely but I’m pretty sure you’ve said that you’ve been to the UK, it’s nice out there and more importantly it’s safe...”

Issei shot up in his seat. 

”I’m not saying we have to, I’m just saying it’s an option.”

Turning his head, Issei bitterly chuckled before he slumped down in his seat. He faced her with an odd look, one that said he didn't understand what was happening here, Nola had always been the one to go headfirst, what was going on here?

"Magnolia, what is this? I know what you're saying but what happened? Why now? They hurt you! They almost made me lose the one person that has understood me, why is that not an issue for you!?"

Meeting her eyes, the anger was shown as his lips quivered, for a moment it looked like a true moment of vulnerability, showing that she hadn't lost her bite, Nola growled meeting his eyes and her anger was there. 

"Oh trust me! IT IS! Do not even try to say that it isn't but haven't you seen this Issei!? When do you have enough!?"

"WHEN THEY DIE!"

And like that, they both stared at one another, both coming to separate conclusions. One thing was for certain, it was like they both had separate ideas on what to do. Something that Issei recognized as he chuckled, again it was bitter, it was especially odd with what was happening right now. 

"The UK, Magnolia, what makes you think they'll stop? Why would they? If we leave...we're submitting and we're saying you win! No, never is that happening with me still around!"

it felt weird, Issei calling her that, even he felt like he was talking to a stranger and currently, it felt exactly like that. What had happened to make her so...different? Why did she wish to suddenly hideout, again?

"And what makes you think this ends with them, Issei? I ran from that past of my title once, it haunts me here too! How do you know that this ends with them, huh!?"

Both stared at one another, realizing that this was something they wished just in different ways. Issei growled, clenching his fist, this wasn't right. It wasn't right that someone could hurt them, walking towards her, as he breathed out softly. 

"I just know-"

"NO, you don't! Alright!? I've done this and for once, I am trying to make sure we survive, that we weather this!"

Issei met her eyes, he didn't have an answer, her words were true. Yet there was something in him that called for blood, looking at her, that soft quality that only she gained in that short time they knew one another. Issei couldn't grip for a drink, cause there was nothing about this he could run from. 

"It's not right that we run, cause that's what we'll be doing. Let me protect you, this...this is not going the same way again, I promise you! I would take that bullet for you, ten times over! Yet I'm listening! I want to make sure that you feel safe! I'd follow you into hell itself and back again, you know that."

It was the words that got them looking at each other, softly again, it was silent, unbearably so as Issei waited, wondering what was going through her mind. It felt like this situation was pulling them in all sorts of directions.

The fact that he used her formal name heightened the tension in the room. For a moment there she felt like a child once again, one that was being scolded for not doing the proper thing. She could hear her fathers voice yelling out her name. “Magnolia May Dixon!!” Was a thought that sent a bit of fear through her core, one that she half expected to catch a backhand from but in the same instance made her rage. This wasn’t the years of her youth anymore, those were behind her, she made sure of that. 

With a bit of a grumble, Nola adjusted herself on the couch. It was probably just the way the conversation was going but she had quickly gotten uncomfortable and no matter what she did she couldn’t find the right spot. She grumbled once again and just decided standing was the only option. It was a bit of a struggle getting up, having to shimmy herself to the edge and heavily use her right side to push herself up. 

Issei seeing the struggle, stood up to lend a hand. Was a hand that she pushed away. 

”I’ve got it... I don’t need the help...” 

Issei threw his hand in front of him, palms facing her. “Fine! Just trying to help...” He shook his head then sat back down in his chair. 

She could see the frustration in his face, one that probably matched the one on hers. With a bit of a snarl, Nola walked herself around the back side of the couch.

”I understand that you’d protect me but you are not one of my guards, it is not your job to do that.”

”Well...”

Nola raised her hand in his direction. “I’m not done! Cause you’ve missed my entire point. You said you’d take a bullet for me.” 

”I would...” 

Nola sighed. “I don’t doubt you would, not at this point at least. Especially not after I had already taken two. Though what’s the point? Why even put ourselves in that situation again? You call it running but it’s not running, it’s surviving.” 

”Bullshit!” Issei exclaimed as he shot up out of his chair. “It’s running and you know it! You do what you want to do but I’m doing this with or without you. I’m doing this for Kiba... I’m doing this for Jasper... I’m doing this for myself but most importantly I’m doing this for you Magnolia.”

”Stop that!” 

”No!” He wasn’t even really sure what she was asking him to stop but regardless he wasn’t going to. 

”Nola... it’s fucking Nola... call me Magnolia one more time so help you god...” 

A bit of anger filled her core, the once melancholy look she had was gone. She fixated her glare onto Issei, it was as if a switch had been flipped. 

"What? You're going to fight me now? Really if I say that again!?"

He met her eyes, it actually seemed very different, so much so that he took a step back. His head turned with a swift growl as he found himself rolling his eyes in disbelief, did it really come to this? Bowing his head, Issei hadn't even noticed that he was edging closer and closer to the liquor cabinet as he clenched his teeth for the barest of moments.

"It seems I'm touching nerves all over then, first it was Maggie, now it's this Magnolia! What the fuck is the problem now huh!? Seems like I can't really do anything to just get this through to you! You're asking me what the point of this is! Why am I putting myself here, I've told you now! What the fuck is this problem now!? You never had it before! All of a sudden, it's surviving, yet before it would have been you shooting the shots!"

His eyes took a dark turn as he turned around meeting her eyes as he walked towards her, this was different, much so from the other times. Where Issei was controlled, his time of being the one person who knew that they could not always be that way had changed. Their roles were different, certainly to the point where they were both adjustings. 

Raising a fist, Issei held it against his temple as he could not even speak that much now, wondering where this was going wrong? Was he wrong in wanting this? He knew these people, he knew the Yakuza. Issei knew what he wanted to do, he said as much but now this turned to be a problem. 

"And what if my way is also surviving Red? What if I want to survive with you here!? Where we met, where everything made sense when we were just two fuckin people with fun in our minds! Where everything was calm, why can't we do that?"

For once, his voice was quiet as he took her glass of bourbon, downing it all as he could not even hold it in anymore. He needed that drink, Issei knew something was wrong when he was barely feeling a thing. This felt different, they had never done this before, they had never disagreed to this point. Sure there were the times in Los Angeles where it was petty, stuff that didn't matter. 

Yet this...was something else, where life and death was the matter, where surviving had been upped a level. Issei understood her side, yet the look he gave her was one that said so much more like he was cause for all of this. Maybe this was something he had come to a long time, she was running and then she met him, was this meant to him or was Issei the obstacle for her?

"I'm the reason. You said that I wasn't but the truth is, I was. If we hadn't met in that bar, what would have happened? Would you have reverted back to the side of yourself that you didn't like Red? I don't think so, I think me being here has been a liability for you."

It was then that Issei's voice did grow monotone, almost like this was just the way he had seen this going. Was he ever meant to feel this loyal? Was he ever meant to feel those type of feelings for her? Issei didn't even know now, the way he was feeling like this was just coming. 

"Maybe you are meant to go Nola. Maybe....-"

Issei didn't say anything more, reaching to grasp her right shoulder tenderly as he pulled her in for a hug. One that felt different, for a moment, he felt like he was torn into two. 

"I want you safe...I want you...to survive-"

Of course, before he could even finish the words, a knock sounded on the door to his suite. Signalling that one of his men had come with some news, Issei bowed his head, narrowing his eyes as he looked at Nola. Did he want this? No. 

Yet he would not be the one to ever put her into trouble she didn't want it, he wanted to protect to grasp her into his strength and let her know that nothing would ever hit her. Issei knew that, no matter what, he would always be there. 

Nola stood there within his grasp, her arms draped down to her sides. A mix of emotions coursed through her. The rage that had recently proceeded her slowly subsided, though she wasn’t in the least happy. It was quite evident from her lack of reciprocation from his grasp. They were both apparently on two different wavelengths right now, which was the first time during their still rather short history.

The want in her soul was to wiggle away from him, push him off of her but she didn’t. She just stood their idly, mind racing. Perhaps he was right, perhaps it was his fault. Then again maybe it was hers... If she didn’t feel the need to day drink, she wouldn’t be in this position. Then again she would have never met him. 

It had definitely been a roller coaster type ride up to this point and she wouldn’t have changed much, minus this whole ordeal. The only question was, to her, was it time to call it quits and head back home or was she to stay and see this out. Going home was the clearest path, one she knew was easy and safe. It still made the most sense to her but there was also another problem with that. 

She came to the US to get away from that part of her life, going back now would defeat the whole purpose behind leaving. 

”I...” She didn’t really know what she needed nor wanted to say. It was frustrating, it was confusing and it all culminated with a single tear streaming down her cheek. It was the first time she had cried in ages, normally she was not an emotional person like this. It was odd and it was different, was definitely something she didn’t like.

Thats when the knock at the door happened. Things went quiet then another knock occurred. 

”Hold on...” Issei spoke up. 

He slowly released his grip from her and extended himself away. Nola quickly rubbed the tear off her cheek, hoping that he hadn’t seen it. His demeanor had quickly changed though, he had witnessed it.

”Seriously, your safety is my top priority... doing this is the only way I can see that lasting for a prolonged period. Yes of course I want to do this, the dragon needs to do this but me... Issei... needs to do this for you. Do you understand that at least.” 

Nola bowed her head, giving it a subtle shake. 

The knock at the door happened once again, causing Issei to direct his gaze onto the door. “For fuck sake, I heard you the first two times. Come in if it is that important.” 

Slowly the door opened, Baki and his large frame entered. “Sorry to interrupt but we need to talk.” Nola looked up towards Issei as he directed his gaze back onto her. 

”Okay...”

”Okay?”

”I... need a few moments to myself.” She stepped back from him and gave him one last look before walking toward the door. Baki swung it opened and watched as she walked by. Giving Issei an inquisitive look once she had gone.

She wasn’t really sure where she was headed but it didn’t matter, she just needed a bit of time to clear her mind. Where ever that may be.

"....We got some news about those gangs, by the way...."

Baki wondered if he should have spoken with Issei about what happened, yet he knew the dragon was keeping him at arm's length. Only with the way his head was bowed, almost like a part of him was slowly torn apart there, it seemed...different. Much so to the hospital moments ago, Issei looked...defeated. 

"Go on, what have you learned?"

Issei sat down, straightening up as he fiddled with his red tie, it loosened slightly as Issei leaned back into the seat. It was blank look again, one that spelt so much for him as Issei turned to face Baki for a moment, the grappler and dragon seemed to be stuck there for a moment before finally, it ceased as Baki spoke again. 

"Samuel Markington is a leader of a group of street gangs that operate throughout Brooklyn, he was the one that organized the former hit. We learned that he was operating with a potentially dangerous ally in the Yakuza, we knew this already, but there is an unknown factor here in play Issei, how they knew you were going to be there."

It was then Baki was realizing how much Issei seemed to be lost, yet those words rung to him, like a bell calling for everyone to gather in the town centre. It was clear to all parties that this was going to be different without his other partner here to rein him in, at the very least. Issei resorted to torture, which even Lola seemed to say that he was against at the time, well, before Nola had ended up where she was. 

Issei shook his head as a brief sigh left him, not even bothering to even hear out Baki, he approached the liquor cabinet, pouring himself a hefty glass as if he was going to need it to get by. Maybe he would but he sat down on the countertop, taking a sip of his bourbon as he did, humming with a slight pause. 

"My crew knew, Kiba was loyal to a fault, it was very few in those circle that trul-"

Issei's eyes widened to the point, realizing his mistake, had it been possible? Something that he hadn't wished to see all this time, a possibility of her being involved with all of this, shaking his head, it couldn't be. Issei refused to believe that, she had been loyal to him, yet a woman scorned was something to regret down the line.

"You have something to tell me, otherwise, we could have Samuel Markington brought down within the next several hours. He is playing host to his mother's birthday party-"

"Do it then..."

Raising a brow, there were rules, everyone knew that. Family, children, wives, and the sort that had nothing to do with the life, was meant to be kept out of it. 

Baki could see that Issei then could care less for the rules but he wanted blood, if Samuel would be the one to start such a trend, it would be something that he would have ordered with no degree of hesitation in his body. 

"Issei, there are rules, your bosses would not like that you are fulfilling a vendetta and using a mother's birthday to go through with this. Think it through, for fuck's sake, this is not the time for you to get a new bloody reputation!"

Snorting, Issei was already sure that he was getting one. People blamed him, what was the difference now? Why not let it be for something that he had actually done? LA Had been different, so had NY a week or so ago, now the business with Samuel would be something he actually had a hand in orchestrating. 

"Reputation, Baki? They almost killed me, they probably turned one of my own people against me! And they were so CLOSE! To taking her, so FUCK THE RULES! I don't care, you kill him, you bring him here, you rough him up and I get some answers, but trust me on this, I want some answers and I want some blood! DO YOU FUCKING GET THAT!?"

Breathing out softly, Baki nodded, not saying goodbye as he walked out, leaving Issei on his lonesome as the young dragon was slowly getting used to such a sensation after all a while. 

Issei didn't know what it was but once again, like clockwork, that bitter feeling rose up in him as he reached for a packet of smokes, yet he ended up crushing the pack in his hand as he roared out! His eyes, dark and filled with desperation. 

Was this what waited for him on this crusade? Lonely nights filled with booze and smokes? Leaning back, Issei threw his head as he closed his eyes, letting the darkness take him for a moment. This would be the few moments where he could get this kind of thing, he would enjoy it....

She had found a random room on the opposite side of the building, looked like it could have been a waiting room of sorts but it lacked certain aspects of it. The main thing was the lack of seating, as there was only one oversized chair, one of which faced a rather large window. The window overlooked a field that was lined with trees. It was the perfect place to collect her thought, stepping in she closed the door behind her, Nola took walked over and took a seat.

There was something rhythmic about it as the trees swayed back and fourth from the wind. It was almost as if they were dancing, dancing to a tone that Mother Nature had created. It was peaceful, helped sooth her mind. Usually in times like these she’d take herself to a bar and drink herself to the next day but drinking was the furthest thing on her mind. Letting out a sigh she continued to stare out that window. 

How did things suddenly get so out of control? Never had she been in a position quite like this. The ambush in the Burger was a real wake up call to her, the once invincible Nola was not as invincible as she thought. Why though? Why all of a sudden have things take a turn? It was a question that she played over and over in her head. The likes of which she couldn’t answer. 

”Get it together, Nola.” She mouthed softly to herself, while tapping her head. It was as if she was trying to jar some answers loose. 

Still though, she had nothing. So she just continued to look out that window, it got to the point that the swaying trees became rather hypnotic. She could feel her eye getting heavier and heavier, with all thoughts of anything completely absent. After a few long blinks, Nola drifted off to sleep. 

Was almost immediately she began dreaming... 

Dreaming of a time when things were a bit more simple, back home in the UK. Back where she never feared for her life, back when people respected her... hell even feared her. Times were different back then... It was as if it was ages ago but in reality was only a few months back.

Suddenly things went black the dream drifted away then there was light, the light as she opened her eyes. Unwarranted by her, she had briefly fallen asleep. Not wanting it to happen again Nola gingerly stood herself up and walked over to the window. Leaning against the frame she continued to look out.

It was different this time, the wind no longer blew, leaving the trees eerily still. 

Thats when it hit her, causing her eyes to widen a bit....

She had come to the US to change her ways, that was the difference... She was trying to be someone that she wasn’t and it made her vulnerable. It changed her... it was the change that put her in the position she was in. It was her own doing... Perhaps all she had to do was stop trying to be someone she wasn’t. 

A smirk went upon her face, one that turned into a slight sinister grin. She took a few steps back from the window, giving the idle trees one more glance before turning about and out the room. 

The moment she needed she had, now it was time to get back on track. Back to Issei room she went, hopefully he was still there.

Moments later, Issei was on the phone, trying to figure how to play this. It was so different now, was it possible that she had survived such an attack? He didn't know but soon, Baki walked back in and they met eyes, the grappler sat down as he tried to calm himself down for what would be the next phase in their plan. 

"Samuel is going to be at his mother's within the next few hours, we have the people prepared to make the example of him but Issei, I'm asking you, do we really want this?"

Issei too had calmed down, with all that had come with this, the business of being involved with the life, it wasn't always meant to be like a game of survivor, who could kill who? No, it was meant to be a business, one that allowed for some money to be made and Issei hadn't been doing that in the last few months, he had been focused elsewhere. It led him onto a different path, one that didn't seem made for him, one that waited for him now. 

It was then that he had spent time in New York, he enjoyed it for what it was, the new times he had there, they spoke to him and it was like a new life, a new way of enjoying himself. It felt like home, so much so that his people noticed and now he wondered if this was the reason why he had been hit, there were many people who wished him dead. 

"Yes, we do. I want you guys to make sure that this does not look like an organized hit, alright? This has got to be landing on them, it doesn't matter what the minority will think but the majority, if this can be considered a classic gangland shooting, we'll be better for it."

Thank the gods, Baki thought to himself, finally glad that Issei picked up some sense, if they were doing this with no remorse, there should be smarts involved and Issei had been lacking that in the fast time that he seemingly had a change in personality, one that was already extending to somewhere beyond Baki's imagination. 

Only now he was thankful that he stuck around, in the time he had left the room before, he kept his ear to the ground and kept hearing of the possible traitors in Issei's former circle. Safe to say, the young man had made quite a few in his time but those in the circle were no slackers. Baki hoped for their sake that Issei never found out but he would, eventually. 

"Understood I'll be sure to tell the people that, what do we do about the current situation we both know about? One of your former people having a hand in this?"

It didn't go unnoticed the way the fire in Issei seemed to increase tenfold as if that very thought had been haunting him now. They both met eyes, telling one another that they couldn't believe it, Baki because he knew Issei was someone to reward loyalty. It never went unnoticed with him, he was someone that kept tight whereabouts on those in his circle. 

Issei already knew who, someone that had been one of his most loyal soldiers. It stung to come to that realization but it was the one person who had not been seen in the week leading up to his binge in New York, he just wondered why. 

"I already know-"

He never got to answer as Magnolia stormed back in, there was that look in her eyes that told him everything he would need to know. Only his blank face remained as Baki looked between the two, he was the one wondering what had happened between the two but left it for right now. 

"What are you doing here? Aren't you meant to be on a flight out of here?"

Issei watched her from his chair as he bowed his head, looking over some things, he realized something but that would come later. He was very much interested in what was going on with her, like how it had reached this far for her and then she suddenly rushed back? That didn't exactly scream...stable for him. 

"You were meant to be out of here, safe and away, what changed?"

Nola gave him a look, rolling her eyes in the process. Did he not understand her okay when they were last around each other. It seemed rather evident to her that she had already agreed to it all. Sure she was super enthusiastic at that time but she still agreed nonetheless.

"Uh, no... I did say okay. Pretty sure that was quite the telling tale that I was in. Unless you misunderstood..."

She paused for a moment, eyes shifting onto Baki then back onto Issei.

"I mean if you want me to leave I will."

The room went silent, seemed like all the focus was currently on her. Was a bit awkward in feeling but one that she shrugged off, though the hesitation in the response was kind of indication maybe she wasn't welcomed anymore. Perhaps they had already went with the notion that she was out, maybe they didn't need her.

"Alright... guess that answers my question.... Good luck then and goodbye..."

Nola turned back around towards the door to his room, Baki himself sidestepped but looked directly at her. "If you need someone to go with you to the airport, I can arrange that."

"Nope, I got it..."

She took another step, that's when she felt it. The forcefully grip around her right wrist, one that pulled her back a couple steps. One that basically turned her about. She knew it was Issei who did it, as he was the only one standing behind her. Though it was something that she really didn't appreciate. Jolting her arm, she tried to pull it away from his grip but with each movement he gripped down tighter.

"Fucking let me go!"

"Calm down!" He loosened his grip a bit, enough for her to pull it from him.

"I'm calm... just don't fucking do that shit again."

"Or what? You gonna stab me or something?"

She shrugged her shoulders at him, was a movement that indicated that anything was possible. No longer was she going to sugarcoat things, no longer was she going to that Nola that had came to US. It wasn't her and it hadn't worked out overly well for her to this point. She was once again herself, no longer hiding what she wasn't.

"So does that mean you'd like my assistance again? Cause I'm pretty sure that you need my help."

"We don't need your help."

She tilted her head sideways and crossed her arms over each other.

"Pretty sure you do... pretty sure you want it as well. So quit playing games and tell me what you have thus far."

Watching his eyes, they fixated onto her... went over towards Baki then settled back onto her.

"You're help will be nice... though just to get this straight, it's not needed...." He needed to get in the last of the words. If he needed this to win than so be it, she wasn't going to argue the point, cause in her head she knew the truth.

"Well?"

With a sigh Issei plopped himself back into his chair, he began telling her what was going on. He then explained that they were going to hit him while he was at his mothers birthday party. Which caused her to shake her head from side to side as he told her.

"What?"

"I don't like it... there are rules Issei... rules... we will not be those people to go against that."

"Bullshit!" He slammed his fists onto the arm of the chair.

Nola took a couple steps towards him and looked down at him.

"Calm down..." She gave him a smirk, was rather suiting that she would have been able to use that towards him. "I have a better idea and it involves fire and explosions." Nola put her hands together, fingertips touched each thumb then opened them quickly. Signalling what she thought explosion would be. All of which while mouthing "Boom".

"I'm thinking more of a series of timed car bombs then a burning down of their headquarter. Less risk of an actual gun fight but with all but more of the satisfaction..."

"Satisfaction? Really? They SHOT YOU! I'm thinking more personal...but...I've been told there are rules, and such, the rules about family being involved with our action is a surefire way to get...killed."

A part of him, one that wished for the up and close battle, the gun and the screams, one that seemed to be beholden to one entity rather than what he was doing right now. It felt different like he was trying to fight himself on every little whim. Closing his eyes, Issei leaned back as he kept himself calm for a moment.

"I'm hearing you out, more than willing to but the fact is, this is not the only group we'll be facing. Sending a message like this, it means something more than a declaration, it's us coming for their necks that no one is going to be safe..."

Baki gave them both a look, they were right. Yet the way Issei's eyes were switching, almost like this was something that he had been planning, he was holding something back. Giving Nola a look, she had certainly changed as well, were they changing? More than likely, due to being around one another? More than likely, yet it was interesting, Baki had heard stories of the two.

Anarchy was their shrouds and weapons, it was like they wielded them like no other, Baki knew his life had been similar to that of Issei's, to a point, it was worse. Something that he had slowly been planning for, nor did he forget how he wished to meet him. Issei the Dragon King, people echoed that name, in secret and sometimes with adoring love in their voices. Did the man even know who he inspired?

"Shouldn't you tell her about what we found out Issei? It's best she knows..."

Issei nodded, still trying to get himself under control as he looked up to meet her eyes. Knowing that this was going to be something that she might accept with ease or deny, only this was his side and so, he already knew, somewhat. 

"We learned that one of my former associates might be in league with the people that tried to kill us. Now, Red, I know you might want this but what happens with my former associates, I will be the one to deal with it, alright? Not you or Baki, me!"

Issei stood to his feet, stumbling, yet he knew he wasn't even drunk and something else was the matter. It was getting worse, something like this, he didn't need it and so, he plastered a smile on his lips.

Walking over to the liquor cabinet, he thought over Nola's plans, it was the best one that they had thought up in a small time. Baki had the people ready, even demotions experts, this was going to be good, a night of a lifetime some might have billed it. 

"Baki, how many explosives could we get in the next several hours or day?"

"Depending on the cars and what we'd need, a good dozen in the next several hours, I get where they are in the next few hours...unless you have need of me elsewhere?"

Issei shook his head knowing that this would be the first step, all it needed was a slight adjustment. He was ready for this, of course, turning his head, he met Nola's eyes as Baki nodded to the two, knowing that the two would need to talk or something. 

As Baki left, Issei smiled sadly, pouring himself a glass of bourbon, at this point, it would seem like the only thing which would be the one thing that held himself together. 

"Be happy...we go at it your way....Great stuff!"

The raw emotion was there for a moment before it switched, his voice turned monotone as he came to that conclusion of himself, hopefully. Did he had have to suddenly change again? No, he had to come to terms with it, seeing her do so with such ease, it made him wonder if he was a coward for not embracing his other side. One that followed orders with such ease and didn't rely...on others for what would come in the bloodshed to happen.

"Is there anything else you want to say before we get what is owed to us, payback?"

“Actually yes but first..."

Nola walked over to him and motioned for the glass of bourbon he held in his hand. He released it to her rather quickly, was probably expecting her to take a drink but it was something that she didn't do. Instead she turned the glass sideways, dumping the contents on the floor in front of them.

“Yo... what the hell?"

Once the glass was emptied she handed it back to him.

"There will be no more drinking Issei. You will need a clear mind.... A distorted one will put you six feet under and this I will not have.”

He looked at the glass in his hand then back at her. There was a bit of rage in his eyes, one that caused him to hurl the glass past her. It hit the back wall and shattered into pieces. Nola though sat idle and calm the entire time, not even flinching to the toss nor the shattering.

"Feel better?"

“No!” 

"Well you will, trust me.."

Nola walked over to the desk in the corner of the room and pulled the chair out from underneath it. She dragged it to where Issei chair was and placed it directly in front of him. She sat down, their knees almost touching each other, that's how close they were.

"Firstly, I wanted to let you know that my mindset is now where it needs to be. You were right, they need to be eliminated. All of them... I do understand that what I have suggested will probably start a chain reaction of things but this is what we need to do. This will be a statement." She scooted herself a bit closer. "This is why we need to go about this first strike the way that we do, there needs to be as little casualties on our end as possible. Our numbers aren't that fantastic to begin with. Does that make sense?”

Nola leaned back a bit, giving him a bit of space. 

“Once the car bombs go off, all the other will gather at their headquarters. Regroup, sort things out. That’s when we lock them in and burn it to the ground. You can have the satisfaction in that, you can light that match. That’s if you want, if not I can do it but for some reason I have a feeling you’d enjoy it so much more.”

”Then after that’s all done you can handle your former associate, that’s all you though.”

She gave him a playful smirk, trying to loosen up whatever tension was in the room. There was something still, something she could feel he wanted to say. So instead of beating around the bush she just upped and asked him. 

”What’s a matter? 

He huffed while sitting upright. “Why the sudden change? Earlier you wanted to leave and now... now you’re completely in. What the hell?” 

Nola shrugged. “I had a sort of revelation, I realized that me trying not to be myself was my downfall. It’s time for me to stop pretending.” She paused for a moment, letting him digest those words before moving on. “Anything else? Otherwise we have some things we need to plan out.”

“I had a sort of revelation, I realized that me trying not to be myself was my downfall. It’s time for me to stop pretending.”

Those words, they seemingly connected with him, he was silent for more than a moment that would help him. It seemed like this was actually happening, confronting himself, his past, all that he had done, all that he would do and had done in the name of loyalty, order, and anarchy. His personal code, his honour, was it real to him? Yes. 

So why had it been this difficult? Snorting, because he made it so, the way his life always seemed to be in...Escalation, running from his home, running here, crossing the lines with someone that had been as violent as him and had accepted herself. It was not something he thought he could do but he did, it was then that a playful smile lit up his features. 

For another moment, Issei was sure that he felt a quiet peace within himself, the way his eyes seemingly opened with a new kind of fire. One that seemed to hold the same protective gleam mixed with a different kind of observance, it was almost like a new structure to him but one that he was ready to work on. 

"No. Yes, there is, like weaponry and which one of is going where to oversee the plans, unless you want to trust Baki with the explosives, considering he has the people for that type of job."

Issei breathed out softly, his voice didn't lose that dangerous edge but it was like a sheathed sword. Lurking there, making sure that people knew that it was there, ready to be unsheathed and ready to be wielded and to kill its opposition for its wielder. 

"I do not mind making sure that you are going to be the one that leads the explosives charge, but it would be a comfort to make sure that you were there to make sure that they had no base of operations to run back too..."

A soft smile did not stop twitching at his lips, it was almost difficult seeing Issei in such light. Used to his smirks and winks, it was like he was slowly becoming a new person. Yet it was still the same Issei, one that had been okay with the way they had been up til now.

"Of course, it is your choice here, just that this is going to be finalized in moments and hey, what could be a better way to make sure that they know we're coming for them?"

Humming, Issei lightly walked over to the counter, pouring himself a glass of water and taking an oreo from a plate off to the side, barely glancing at the drinks and smokes that laid off to the other side. He bit down, giving her a meaningful glance. 

"I'd say nothing, you've nailed it..."

There was always something that he held back, yet here he was calm, almost like everything would be calm. Shaking his head, he glanced at Nola, clearly thinking about something else for a moment. 

"Hey, after we take care of all of this, you want to get some steaks in Detroit?"

Once again, the complete change was odd but Issei was still smiling like everyone was fine, for a moment, it felt a bit scary but the glance he gave to Nola made it clear that he was still...himself.

Watching him bite into that Oreo gave her a sense of normalcy, it had been the first time in a long time, that she remembered him munching on one. Come to think of it the Burger was the last time that came to mind. Sure he could have and very possibly could have had some while she was unconscious but this was the first time she had seen it since that faithful day. 

She sort of attributed them to being a device used when he was calm, when he was more centered but that could have just been her observation on things.

”Steaks in Detroit?” Seemed like a rather random inquiry, weren’t there perfectly good steaks in New York? It had to mean something else, there had to be something he needed to do out there. Maybe it had something to do with that associate he had mentioned, maybe he actually wanted her there when he took care of that loose end.

Either way she was down for the trip.

”Sure, steaks in Detroit sound wonderful. You know I’ve never had a steak in Detroit, actually I’ve never had anything in Detroit. Probably has something to do with the fact I’ve never been but that’s another story.” She gave him a smile as she stood from the chair and made her way over to where Issei was. Over by the water and plated Oreos. 

Taking one off the plate, Nola twisted it apart and have the creme a lick before putting it back together. 

”How well do you trust Baki? Cause to be honest, I can’t be in all those places at once and if they are his people they would probably listen to him a bit more than me.” 

”He is eager... willing to prove himself.”

”Think he can handle something to this magnitude? Cause if he can’t I will do it but I’d prefer to be by your side while that headquarter is burning.” 

Suddenly another idea popped into her head. Sure Samuel was the prime target in this, if only one person was to die it had to be him. Though what if... what if he was the last one to go. What if they were able to watch the realization on his face as his entire operation came crumbling down. All of which before he met his maker. 

”Speaking of burning things down, what if we leave Samuel for last? What if we make him watch his life go up in flames. Make him watch his men burn. Then and only then will we end him...” A smile beamed from her face to the thought of it. 

She looked over towards Issei who was about to pop another Oreo into his mouth, almost stopping in mid toss. 

”Sounds all good but how are we going to do that?” 

Nola shrugged. “I’m not exactly sure but wouldn’t that be fantastic? She chuckled for a moment, letting the chuckle subside naturally. “It’s just a thought, if we can manage it. If not he will perish in a car or in his headquarter. Either way is really a win. Just thought that would be a bit more... fun...” 

Nola raised the Oreo from her hand to her mouth, biting it in half. Seems they had most of the plan laid out, now they just needed to finalize things. Death would soon hit his operation... then... it was off to get those famous steaks.

Humming, Issei leaned back against the counter, almost sitting on it but he had his manners. 

"What about both? Burn him alive in the car?"

Issei's smile did not leave, in fact, it seemingly brightened as he looked around for some ice cream, humming, he looked over to the clock, noticing that they still had some time, finally, he found a pint of ice cream in the freezer as he let it rest on the table between them. 

"Grab a spoon, if we do this, we just have to make sure that we do it right. The other gangs would be on alert and that is something we'd need to take care of, naturally."

Scooping out a big bit, Issei ate some, barely suppressing the shiver that ran through him as he thought about the possibilities, he was making sure that he could still have what was necessary. 

For a moment, he caught Nola's eyes and wondered if she was having second thoughts on joining him for ice cream, what the heck was the problem? 

"It's not Oreos but pass me the plate, we'll do something amazing!"

Playfully rolling her eyes, Nola passed him the plate as he used as another plate to crush them together before sprinkling it all over the ice cream, causing Nola to grin for a second. 

Issei knew that he had her then, passing her the spoon, Issei was grateful that she started joining him then. Maybe this could have a sense of normalcy to it at the very least, he wasn't going to be like that former him who was so uptight, ugh! It was like being strung up, of course, he did have one thing right at the very least...

Intrigued, Issei gave Nola a sly look before continuing with his thoughts on the situation they were in. 

"If we can adjust and make it look like a regular kidnapping, as I said, the bombs will set a whole number of things off. One, is the Yakuza, my allies are still in there and they could be of value but chances are they are dead...."

Issei said flippantly as if they were but a pawn on the board for him, they were not so powerful. The ones that mattered were over here with him, he had those connections under his protection, that is what mattered for the future at the very least.

"Chances are, they'll make the connection, so we should be sparing nothing. If we take Sam alive, we might have a chance of figuring out who decided to play the mouse to our cat..."

Eating more of the vanilla ice cream crushed with Oreos, Issei felt like a small amount of peace within him, maybe due to the fact that he was discussing this with Nola and eating said ice cream that it felt that way. 

"If all goes well, you should be able to get a burger without getting shot and I won't have to go all Argh! ISSEI ANGRY!"

Chuckling at his own antics, Issei felt particularly in a newfound mood, not knowing why, once again, chalking it up to the simple moment that was going on here, his mind was revolving around it. Humming, he had to wonder what about it made it so...special. 

"And at least you'll have two lovely scars on you, ones that I should see, no? It'll be...lovely"

Issei's tone took a more different tone then as he winked at Nola playfully for the slightest of moments. 

“Well there's not much to see now, just a bunch of redness and some stitches but that’s after you peel away the bandages. They really aren’t that impressive, not yet at least.” 

It would be a while yet before those recent wounds were scar worthy, the sooner the better in her opinion. The damn stitches were starting to get a bit itchy and the areas themselves were still a bit tender. Up to this point she had been doing a good job hiding that fact, basically just grinning and bearing it. 

Taking a spoon, she dipped it into the ice cream taking a little bite then placed the spoon back onto the plate. It was creamy, it was crunchy... it was good but she wasn’t really that hungry. Mainly just took that bite because it seemed like the right thing to do in the moment. 

”Burning him alive in a car works for me too, really any sort of slow and painful death works for me. Really whatever way you look at it, word will travel fast. Any sort of action onto any of the people responsible for this.” Nola slid the fabric of her shirt off her left shoulder, exposing the bandage that covered one of the wounds she had gotten at the Burger. “Will result in heightened awareness across the board. Which is why we need to hit them hard and with authority.” 

“It needs to be a statement... come to think of it, Samuels death needs to be put on display. Perhaps make it public?” 

Idea after idea raced through her mind, there were so many things that they could do but that was a mute point. Something like that could be decided later. For now the car bombs were in motions and the idea behind burning down the headquarter was in motion. They just needed to get their hands on some gasoline and perhaps a flame thrower or two... those might have been hard to come by, they might just have to settle for a good ole Molotov cocktail. 

”I think you’re right about Samuel, he needs to be taken during the strike. He needs to live, we need to bleed him of everything he knows and then out him out of his misery. We need to put a bit of surveillance on him.”

”Surveillance? You realize that requires time... time is something we don’t have.” Issei gave her a smirk then dug his spoon back into the ice cream, taking the biggest spoonful she had seen. He had a point, that would take time... something they didn’t have. 

”Hmm...” She picked up the spoon she had placed down, scooped up another bit of ice cream and pushed it into her mouth. It was mainly to give herself another moment to think of it. 

”We could always wing it but that kind of defeats the purpose behind everything.” 

Placing the spoon back down, Nola made her way over to the window in his room. She started out of it for a moment and watched the passing by traffic. 

”You said he is going to a birthday party later, right?”

”Uh, yeah but you said that was off limits.”

”Yeah it is but when he leaves, all bets are off. We could probably set up an ambush a couple blocks down the road and grab him then. Otherwise I don’t know when we will be able to. We don’t know his schedule well enough.” Nola looked up, she could faintly see the reflection of herself in the glass. Giving herself a glance over, she gave herself a nod. “Yup, that’s what we will do. Can you talk to Baki, see if he can get us a couple guys... oh we will need some guns too. We grab him tonight and cause mayhem tomorrow.” 

Turning back about, Nola walked a couple steps towards him. 

”Sounds like fun, doesn’t it?”

Issei took one last scoop of the addicting ice cream he had a hand in creating before covering it, placing it back in the freezer in his stride. While he did so, he had listened to the ideas that Nola had in mind for what this could be leading to. 

"I think it does sound like fun but we have guns, did you really think I would unprepared for what would be....a great moment!?"

Turning to face her, Issei barely hid his smile, it didn't even seem like he was trying to but Issei casually strolled to the phone, calling Baki as he waited for his guy to pick up. 

It was a few moments into the call that Issei finally brought up the plan, of course, using sly words, you could never be too careful with these wiretaps these days. Issei was not going to be someone who got caught out that way, the feds had nothing on him at the very least.

Baki understood, knowing that these two always had something up their sleeves. If they could pull this off, it would be one that no one ever forgot, sending a message during these times, one to the LA Street gangs who thought they could get rid of them and then the head of the snake. 

"Good, it'll be a time before we get this done but at least, we'll be dealing with this first of all. I'll see you for the fireworks...hehe"

Issei's chuckle actually didn't go unnoticed because Nola raised a brow towards him as he hung up the call. Issei's head turned and he met her eyes, deciding that she seemingly needed an explanation, he shrugged with a cheeky wink in response. 

"We've done it, now all we need to do is execute the plan. How we move and how we adjust, it'd be for the betterment that we got this down, especially who you're going to be with when this all happens..."

Issei's smile remained, the way it didn't even leave during a moment of anger, worry, or sadness, it was getting worrisome. The way he was and how he could switch that on a dime as if the slightest little thing would be setting him off. It was not normal, especially for the people that knew him, yet as Issei himself came to that conclusion, they would too. 

"When the time comes, it'd be better for you to choose where you wish to lead the operation. I know where I'll be and you asked about Baki, him being the one to lead the operation with the explosives, he's the one with the guys and he is the one that knows he can keep them under his advisement, I'm not the one with expertise in that area..."

Gliding towards her, seemingly effortless, Issei kept himself with that soft smile that made him look at peace. It felt odd to witness, to see that he was being this at ease, knowing the man was anything but before.

"Making a death public, as I've said, you'd need to do it differently than before. As we move to do this plan, we handle it with a slight bit of ease than before. That means you'd be with me and I think I have the idea in making his death a little more than just meaningful, as you said a statement, one that makes sure they know we're coming for them because they know that this wouldn't just be a simple gangland attack!"

Issei's voice grew an octave, seemingly the excitement getting to him as he jumped up like a toddler who saw a giant teddy bear at one of those carnivals, he was taken with the idea and wanted to get what he wanted!

His jumping continued before Nola put a hand on his shoulder, bringing him back as a pout rested on his face now before he grew serious within seconds. 

"A statement that only a few would get, one that wouldn't be missed, now just to think up the idea...would be burning him inside his car be that significant in the long run or do we make this a more personal vendetta? I was going to suggest we carve him up like a pumpkin...let them find his body in front of the burning headquarters...."

For a moment, Issei's face flickered to a blank mask for the slightest of seconds before that eerie clown-like smile was back on his lips, how Nola was calming him down and keeping him centred was a miracle in its own right...

"LET'S DO IT! RED! HEHE Please! I'll even let you get the first poke! It'll be so...alluring! Do to them what they would've done to you!"

Issei's eyes were wild before he whispered this statement to Nola, seemingly trying to get her on board, even with a mixture of that playful side that was coming out more. Even, that smile wasn't removed, it was still there, going wider!

“Actually... lets just take things in stride. Let’s not commit on that just yet, I’m sure when his time comes we will know exactly how to end it. Cause really, the possibilities are endless.” Nola gave him a slight smirk before making her way to the window. 

Glancing out, she took in the view of the city. 

”How long until that birthday party is supposed to end?”

She could hear the footsteps on Issei coming towards her, stopping just behind her right shoulder. 

”A couple hours I think, it’s a family event... those things don’t usually last all night.”

Nola nodded. 

”How about a car, do we have one of those?” 

”Yes!” Issei stated before letting out a rather loud sigh. It was rather overly exaggerated, purposely meant for her to get the point of it. With a turn of her Nola glared over towards him. 

”Are these questions bothering you? Cause last I checked, I’m kind of in the dark. I’m just trying to figure out the details.”

”I’ve got everything we need, trust me... all we need to do is execute everything... well everyone...” He gave her a rather large smile, hoping she’d get the humor in it. 

Rolling her eyes at him, she just turned back towards the window then chuckled softly under her breath. 

”Okay... I trust you... tell me though, how are we going to kidnap him? Do you have a plan for that?” 

”Uh... 

“Guess that’s a no?” She didn’t really give him a chance to answer before continuing. “We need a decoy and an ambush. I will volunteer to be the decoy, you and a couple of the guys can be the ambush.” 

”No... Fuck no! You will not be a decoy, you realize that will put you right in harms way? That’s just something I will not allow.”

Nola turned her entire body towards him and directed her gaze up onto him. There was a brief silence... 

“Yes... yes I will. What guy do you know wouldn’t stop to help a woman in distress? Flat tire... over heated car... something to that extent.” 

Issei kept his eyes down onto her. “No!” 

”Yes! Trust me, it will be okay.”

”Don’t you think he will recognize you? I mean him and his guys already tried to kill you... us... they already know what we look like. If he recognizes you, you will be shot on sight and there will be nothing I can do about it. So no!”

”I’ll get a wig, change my clothes... whatever I need to do to change my appearance enough. All I need to do is get him to stop and get out of his car. Once I do that, you and the others swarm in. The margin for error should be rather small, this is what we need to do. And I’m rather okay with the risk, especially knowing you’ll be a part of the ambush. So yes... this is what we will do. Okay?”