The group quickly established a temporary base within the abandoned warehouse, turning it into a makeshift garage and workshop. As they settled in, a trio of futuristic bikes and two neon-decorated sports cars arrived, their neons is contrast on the dark ground. their riders dismounting with a sense of cool confidence. The pale skin of bald mens, adorned with geometric tattoos, exuded an air of local gang affiliation.

The seem leader of the group, a man with a white shirt, and glooming blue tosca tattoo on his arms approached Wanderer, his voice carrying a hint of challenge. "This is our ground. And your cars are parked on top of it."

Wanderer nodded, his expression calm and unfazed. "Yes, we're aware of that. And we're willing to rent it if you want."

The bald gang leader eyes Wanderer with a mixture of suspicion and interest. He glances at the temporary base and the garage setup on the hangar.

"Rent, huh? You fellas got the dough to pay us?"

Wanderer replied, "We just merchant and sellsword who wanna find fortune with Series 9."

The gang leader nods slowly, assessing Wanderer and his group. "Merchant and sellsword, eh? Well, if you's got the money to pay, we might be willing to let you use this ground. But it's not gonna be cheap."

Wanderer expresion is unreadable and speak “200 credit per month,, we still dont had income”

The gang leader scoffed. "200 credits per month? You're either a bunch of cheapskates or just plain stupid. That's nowhere close to what it's worth. This here is prime real estate, in this shithole."

Wanderer grinned, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Good.. alright give me a insight."

The gang leader, enjoying the negotiation, leaned in closer. "Alright, listen up. The rent ain't gonna be 200 credits per month, no way. That's insulting. If you wanna use this ground, you gotta pay 500 credits per month. And that's the minimum, you understand? If you wanna keep your stuff safe, you better be able to cough up the dough. No exceptions."

Wanderer glanced at his lieutenant, who stood nearby. "Alright.. 300 credit,, again.. we still dont had a job and we are still struggling.. lets dog help other dog "he said with raise his eyebrows a bit.

The gang leader huffed, still not satisfied with the offer. He rubbed his chin, considering the offer carefully. A few moments later, he spat out his answer. "Heh, alright, listen up. I'll tell you what, you pay me 300 credits per month, and we'll let you use the ground. But if you don't pay on time, I'm kickin' you out. And if you cause any trouble, the rate increases. Capice?"

Wanderer nodded. "Good.. deal "he offer his hand" what i should.. call our new landlord? hmhm? heh"

The gang leader smirked, taking Wanderer's hand and shaking it firmly. "Ha! You can call me Skull. And you better remember my name, 'cause I'm the one you'll have deal with if you don't pay up. I'm the landlord around here."

Wanderer nodded. "Skull.. alright.. we are.. from village man.. can you tell us what is series 9 in your eyes? do they.. like your.. kinda big boss?"

Skull let out a derisive snort at Wanderer's question. He crossed his arms and shook his head. "Series 9? Big boss? Hah! They're nothing but a bunch of freaks and outcasts. Sure, they can throw some weight around, but they ain't no organized force like us. Besides, they're all scattered and divided, no proper leader and no unity. They're just a bunch of thugs and miscreants with no real power."

Wanderer humming. "mhhm.. i see.. can i say they like kinda.. broker in this realm?"

Skull grinned, "Yeah, you could say that. Series 9 is like a broker, but a chaotic and violent one. They're constantly fighting and backstabbing each other, and their loyalties change with the wind. They have no real allies, just temporary ones. They'll make deals with anyone who can pay them, but they'll betray them just as quickly if it serves their own ends."

Wanderer nodded, "How many gang beside skull?"

Skull smirked, proud of his gang's dominance. "Heh, there are other gangs around here, sure. But none of 'em come close to us. We're the Kings of this stretch of wasteland. We got the guns, the muscle, and the numbers. The other gangs are all small-time riffraff, nothing to worry about. We own this town."

"Alright.. nice to meet you skull.. i hope no point gun to each other.. because we peaceful.. killer "wanderer lower his and mask smile

Skull let out a dry chuckle, his demeanor shifting. "Aye, let's hope it stays that way. But this wasteland ain't no peaceful place, friend. Trust me, I've seen things you wouldn't believe. People killed over a drop of water, just for a scrap of food. We live by the sword out here, and the best way to stay alive is to be the one holding the sword. Don't go getting too comfortable here. Stay sharp, stay vigilant."

Wanderer smirked. "Okay.. nerd "

Skull narrowed his eyes at the jab. "Nerd? Heh, you got a lot of nerve calling me that, mister. I ain't no scholar, I'm a survivor. I've lived through more hell than you can imagine. I might be a gangster, but I ain't no fool. I know how to read people, and how to read a situation. You better watch your mouth, friend. This ain't some fancy bar where you can just run your trap."

Wanderer nodded. "Hmhm.. tell me.. are you school by chance? judging your.. tongue ,, you not like those pirate".

Skull tilted his head, intrigued by Wanderer's question. "School? You really think I wasted my time sitting in some classroom, learning about history and math and all that crap? Nah, I'm a product of the wasteland, kid. I learned everything I know the hard way, through blood and pain. I've been fighting and clawing my way to the top since I was a kid. I ain't no soft-handed scholar, I'm a hardened survivor."

Wanderer nodded. "Alright.. nice to see you skull.. i think its time you go..".

Skull chuckled at Wanderer's dismissal. "Heh, yeah, I should get goin'. I got business to attend to. But you better keep your word, and pay your rent on time. I'd hate to have to come back here and kick your ass."

wanderer casually gave him a wave. "Yes,, "

Skull smirked at Wanderer's wave, impressed by the mercenary's casualness. "Heh, you're either real cocky or real stupid. But I like that about ya. I'll be seeing you around."

After watching the gang members leave with their vehicles, Wanderer turned to Chrome and his other lieutenants. "I see swat wannabe."

Chrome nodded, a smirk spreading across his face. "Heh, they do think they're something special, don't they? Just a bunch of wannabes trying to carve out a corner for themselves in this wasteland."

Wanderer crossed his arms, contemplating the situation. "But they might be useful. If they really have numbers, we might not even need to risk ourselves while dealing with Series 9."

This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

Furqan chimed in, his tone serious. "That's true, but relying on them is a risk in itself. They're unpredictable and untrustworthy. Plus, who's to say they'd support us against Series 9? They may just as easily side with them for the right price."

Wanderer nodded, acknowledging Furqan's point. "Well, his advice rings true. This place is heavily irradiated. Water is expensive. We might need more purified water for the whole crew; we can't rely on the local market."

Chrome crossed his arms, deep in thought. "He's right about that. This place is a dump. The radiation is killing us slowly. We need a steady supply of clean water if we're gonna survive here, and the markets are drying up fast."

"Alright," Wanderer said,"For now, we’ll tighten our rations until we find a solution. We’ll check the Series 9 market and see what they offer."

Furqan nodded, and the others agreed. "Right. We'll need to make our rations last as long as we can. And we'll need to find a way to get more supplies. The Series 9 should have what we need, at least for now."

Oboro who lean on the hangar wall then added, "I'll keep an eye out for any signs of trouble. If those gangs try anything, I'll know before they even lift a finger."

"Good. Better careful than sorry. Let’s roll," Wanderer commanded.

they then took a couple jeep and drive toward sin city. while the rest stay in their new base. As they moved deeper, they reach the west sector of sin city. a Nexus Prime.

its was market area, was a chaotic labyrinth of makeshift stalls and tents, Oboro kept a watchful eye on their surroundings after park their jeep on parking lot. its surrounding area is dark. the street lamp is off. with only light can be seen on the vendor stalls showing their colorful wares,

Nexus Prime, District The Labyrinth, lived up to its name. The place was a maze, bustling with traders and filled with the cacophony of voices and haggling. Only the main road provided a clear path through the chaos.

Navigating through the market, their senses were on high alert. A peculiar stall caught their attention. It advertised "pets," but the creatures on display were anything but ordinary. Some were breathtakingly beautiful, while others were disturbingly mutated. Wanderer, his expression hidden behind his mask, turned to his lieutenants.

"Wanna dog? Or woman?" he joked, trying to lighten the mood.

The group glanced at the various "goods" on display. Chrome let out a whistle as he looked at one of the "women" for sale. "Heh, how about that one, eh?" He elbowed Wanderer and grinned.

Wanderer shot back, "You have a wife, buddy. I’m talking about a new maid." He wiggled his eyebrows, trying to keep the banter going.

Chrome laughed and slapped Wanderer on the back. "Heh, yeah, I’ve got a wife, but that don’t mean I can’t appreciate a little eye candy."

Furqan shook his head, trying to rein in his companions. "Focus, people. We're here for supplies, not to browse for maids. Let's stick to the mission."

Later, they ventured deeper into the market, spotting drones hovering above and gang members observing from balconies and rooftops. Their geometric tattoos and vibrant clothes set them apart from the commoners. They soon reached a stall showcasing a mutant with green skin. Wanderer and Furqan exchanged glances; this green mutant resembled a woman named Jil they had encountered in the mermaid settlement just days ago.

Wanderer approached the shopkeeper, a fat middle-aged man. "Hey, man... what makes these mutants unique besides their green skin?"

The shopkeeper perked up at their interest, realizing they had potential buyers. "Ah, you got a good eye for beauty there, lads. This here mutant is a true gem. But her uniqueness doesn't just stop at her skin color, no sir."

He leaned in closer, lowering his voice to a whisper. "These mutants ain't just green. They got special powers, special abilities. I won't tell you what they are; you gotta buy 'em to find out, but trust me, it's worth it."

Wanderer scoffed, "Do you think I’m going to buy a random Pokémon? Hah!"

The shopkeeper looked taken aback but quickly regained his composure. "Hey now, don't be so dismissive, friend. These mutants ain't just a toy. They're useful. They can do things regular folk can't do. Imagine having a mutant with super strength, or the ability to heal any wound. Or even just someone who can work through the harshest conditions. They'd be worth more than their weight in gold."

Wanderer raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite himself. The market was full of surprises, and he couldn't shake the feeling that they were on the brink of something significant.

Wanderer leaned against the makeshift stall, his eyes narrowing as he considered the shopkeeper's words. "Ahh... I see. They had faster regeneration, huh? Interesting. But why have I never seen something like them before in the wasteland?"

The shopkeeper's expression shifted, a sly smile creeping onto his face. "Ah, now you're starting to see it. These mutants are rare, that's why you don't see them a lot in the wasteland. They're prized possessions, and not many people have 'em. But the ones who do, they're sitting on a gold mine. Trust me, you won't find anything like them anywhere else."

Wanderer raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Alright... how much for that man?" He gestured toward a mutant displayed nearby.

The shopkeeper's eyes lit up, sensing an opportunity. "Ah, that one? He's a fine specimen, I assure you. I'll tell you what, seeing as you're clearly a discerning customer, I'll let him go for a special price—just for you. Ten thousand credits."

Wanderer glanced at his companions, who exchanged disapproving looks. He turned back to the shopkeeper, determination in his voice. "You know, we actually want to look for a water purifier. How about eight thousand credits, and you give us a link about the water purifier from your friend?"

The shopkeeper perked up at the mention of water purifiers, clearly knowing something valuable. "Water purifiers, eh? You want one of those? Well, you're in luck. I happen to know someone who can help with that." He leaned in closer, lowering his voice. "But I'll need something in return. I'll lower the mutant's price to eight thousand, and give you a contact for the water purifier if you do me one little favor."

Wanderer frowned, skepticism creeping into his tone. "What?"

The shopkeeper grinned, a sly look on his face. "There's a rival gang in the area. They've been causing us some trouble, and I'd like them dealt with, if you catch my drift. You take care of them, and I'll give you what you want."

Wanderer shook his head, incredulous. "Damn... do you think this is a video game? You can't just ask your customer to do your dirty work for a discount."

The shopkeeper shrugged, undeterred. "Hey, I'm just a businessman. I know what I have to offer, and I know what I need. If you're not interested, then you're free to walk away. It's just a simple job: you take care of my problem, I take care of yours. No harm, no foul."

Wanderer crossed his arms, contemplating the offer. "Wait, no... my price in the wasteland is high. You should give us a better cut."

The shopkeeper considered for a moment, then nodded. "Ah, I see you're a tough negotiator. Fine, I'll sweeten the deal. You take care of my problem, and I'll give you the mutant for six thousand credits, a contact for the water purifier, and a discount on future purchases. Fair enough?"

Wanderer smirked, "I mean, look at us. Do you think you're talking to amateurs right now? We can stand with the Skull Gang, you know."

The shopkeeper's eyes widened as he took in the sight of the well-armed group in front of him. He swallowed nervously,. "A-ah, I see. My apologies. I see I'm dealing with professionals here. Alright, let's make it seven thousand for the mutant, the water purifier contact, and a discount on future purchases. I'll even throw in some extra fuel and gear for good measure."

Wanderer chuckled, shaking his head. "Humpf... you even offer a future discount, huh? You’re a brave man indeed. I respect that."

The shopkeeper tried to act tough, but the tremble in his voice betrayed his nerves. "S-so we have a deal then? You take care of my little problem, and I give you what you want?"

Wanderer rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Tell us about your rival... and why I should help you."

The shopkeeper leaned in, lowering his voice further. "My rival gang goes by the name 'The Jackals.' They're a bunch of thugs and cutthroats, causing trouble anywhere they go. They've been messing with our operations for a while now, raiding our supply convoys, and even tried to muscle in on our market here. We need them dealt with if we're going to continue conducting business."

Wanderer nodded, processing the information. "I see... but do you pay tribute to local gangs? They do nothing about it?"

The shopkeeper shook his head. "No, we're not in league with any of the local gangs. We prefer to operate independently, without any unwanted attention from the locals. That's why we need you. You're outsiders; you can handle the Jackals without causing too much of a stir in the region. The local gangs won't bother us if you take care of the problem quietly."

Wanderer sighed, weighing his options. "I see... alright, let's see what we can do. But you better bring my water purifier when I'm done."

The shopkeeper nodded, relief washing over his face. "You got it. You take care of the Jackals, and you'll get the mutant, the water purifier contact, and the future discount. No tricks, no funny business. I promise."

With the deal struck, Every credit saved was a credit earned, and in this wasteland, every credit counted. The intel on Series 9 would have to wait. A side quest. A necessary evil. ?