Paraquat, large town on the imperial planet of Krablokistan has always been somewhat lawless, but recently the crime rate has risen alarmingly!
The town elders, not wanting to endanger themselves, have decided to reinstate the position of Marshall of Paraquat. Similar to Sherriff or Judge, the Marshall has the power to sentence miscreants the Black Hole of Paraquat – supposedly the hardest jail to escape from on the planet. The newly appointed Marshall is one Viscos Labormarti, ex-Guardsman and former prize fighter.
One of Viscos’ first high profile collars was Strangler Arris, an unpleasant thug with a reputation of violence and a short fuse, also a known substance abuser. The Marshall apprehended Arris shortly after he entered a well documented Spinejuice den. Once incarcerated, it was simply a matter of a kangaroo court and a swift sentencing. Simples. The Black Hole is also known as the Iceberg, as 90% of the facility is below ground. The Black Hole proper is 18,000M below the surface of Krablokistan, and fully automated. The armoured lift is only scheduled to go up
or down once a month. Whilst waiting, Arris is kept in the holding cells above ground
which are generally the province of drunks and petty criminals. The lift is due to return in 10 days, so time is an important factor.
Meanwhile, associates of Arris moved swiftly, a hefty bribe to Chank. He is the Cyber hound technician allocated to the upper section of The Black Hole. As is often the case with low paid individuals, a bribe accompanying a threat can work wonders for integrity realignment . Three months technician salary and the retention of all currently viable limbs is a persuasive argument. Chank then disables the normal patrol protocols which gives a brief window of opportunity for a message to be given to Arris regarding his escape.
Two members of the Guild of Thugs approach the rear of the Black Hole giving Arris his instructions regarding his breakout. Durk Radon and Slashette talk to the impassive Strangler Arris. His nickname come from his huge gnarled hands that have ended the lives of many an unfortunate Paraquat resident.
“Some offworlders are coming to break you out within the next few days” Radon explains. “They’re not cheap, but they come with good credentials”.
Arris’ only reply was “They’d better be good! If I have to dig myself back up I’ll take your other arm!”.
With that the pair leave the vicinity to make some final preparations for the escape of their fearsome leader.
The story continues…..
Paraquat Welcomes Careful Drivers 