The Janitor Who Was A Killer

Mia stood frozen, watching Vardan disappear down the hallway. A chill ran down her spine.

She remembered that same unshakable presence in James—the way he moved, how his eyes seemed to pierce through people like he could see their every thought. Now, Vardan carried that same weight.

But he wasn't James.

He was something new.

Mia clenched her fists. If Vardan kept pushing down this path, it wouldn't just be gangsters he'd attract. The organization wasn't kind to those who threatened their control, especially someone like Vardan who already carried the legacy of one of the old Seven Wings.

"I have to stop him… or at least slow him down."

---

Later That Evening

Vardan stood on the rooftop of an old warehouse near the city's industrial district. His hands rested on the edge of the building, eyes locked onto the street below. He had been following rumors for days, tracing the movements of the city's most dangerous gang—the Iron Serpents.

They ruled the underworld with brutal efficiency, controlling the flow of weapons, drugs, and information. Their leader, Darius 'The Cobra', was infamous for cutting down anyone who challenged him.

"Perfect." Vardan's grip tightened.

From the shadows behind him, Mia's voice broke the silence. "Are you seriously doing this alone?"

Vardan didn't turn. "I told you. I have to."

She stepped forward, folding her arms. "And I told you, this is suicide. Darius isn't just a street thug. He's ex-military. Even the organization respects him."

"Good," Vardan said, a faint smirk touching his lips. "That means he's exactly the kind of person I need to beat."

Mia exhaled sharply, brushing her hair back in frustration. "You're insane."

Vardan finally turned to face her. "Maybe. But I can't wait around for the organization to make their move. I need to force their hand. You understand that, right?"

Mia looked away, biting her lip. She did understand. She had been part of that world long enough to know that waiting meant death.

But Vardan wasn't like the others. He wasn't raised in darkness like her, or like James. He still had a chance to walk away.

"Fine," she muttered. "But I'm coming with you."

Vardan raised an eyebrow. "You?"

"Don't underestimate me," Mia said, stepping beside him. "I know how the Serpents work. I can get you inside without triggering alarms."

Vardan studied her for a long moment before nodding. "Alright. But if things get too dangerous—"

"I can handle myself," Mia cut in, narrowing her eyes. "Just focus on Darius."

As the two stared down at the Serpents' hideout below, the streetlights flickered, casting long shadows over the cracked pavement.

Vardan tightened the bandages around his hands.

Tonight was the first step.

One way or another, the organization was going to notice him.