Free Demon Warriors 1: Hondo by Lynn Hagen Page A

two warriors who had just joined them. “I want you to find the reporter who wrote the story about the break-in.” He walked over to the bar and picked the paper up, his eyes scanning over it. “Sexton Fenton. And find out how he found out about the break-in.”
    “No problem.” Rainerio nodded, leaving with Phoenyx.
    “Someone needs to guard the Black River. If whoever took the crystal truly knows how to use it, then we need to catch them in the act,” Hondo pointed out.
    “I’ll send over Ace Boogey and Torky. That should keep the two out of trouble for a while.”
    Hondo shook his head as he snorted. “Sending two hoodlum brothers to watch for something as valuable as the crystal, are you sure that’s wise?”
    A knowing smile broke across Panahasi’s face, his eyes sparkling in the dimly lit room. “They know that if they cross me, I’ll blink them out of existence.” The leader winked at Hondo.
    Hondo would rather have Panahasi raving mad than see him so calm and playful. The boss man was lethal in this mood. He had no doubt Torky and Ace Boogey would think twice before crossing the Demon Warrior leader, but whether they still do it was the million dollar question.
    “Where’s Chris?” Panahasi asked as he took a seat at the bar.
    “Hondo let him go out on a date,” Kane offered as he flipped through a magazine from the coffee table.
    Hondo shot daggers at the instigator.
    “I didn’t know you were so freethinking.” Panahasi raised a brow in surprise.

    “I’m not. They’re just friends.” They better be, or Snooke was gonna wish he was never hatched under a rock.

Chapter Six
    “I’ll have the three-piece special.” Chris leaned against the counter and fit his fingers together, waiting for Snooke to place his order. His eyes moved over the dining area, watching the mystical beings of the demon realm enjoying their meals.
    Although this was technically called the demon realm—because of the Demon Warriors—it was inhabited by a variety of paranormal creatures who visited here, most deciding to call it home. But only the demons were born with supernatural powers.
    “Here you go.” The vampire behind the counter slid Chris’s paper boat of chicken across the counter. Once Snooke had his, they decided to walk back to Chris’s house instead of eating in the dining area.
    “God, I love these wings,” Chris said as he bit into his tender chicken. It wasn’t often he came here, preferring home-cooked meals, but it was a treat when he did.
    “I practically live out of that place.” Snooke chuckled as he licked his fingers. “What do you want to do now?”
    “We could head over to Bernard’s Buybacks and see what used video games or movies they have.”
    They both turned on their heels and headed toward the used video store. “So is Kane seeing anyone?” Snooke asked as he dropped the ravaged chicken bone and picked up a fresh one. “That you know of?” he added on as he took a bite.
    Chris grinned at the way Snooke was trying to sound casual. He’d never played matchmaker before. This could be fun. “I haven’t seen him with anyone. As far as I know, he’s single.” Chris caught the look of sheer joy on Snooke’s face before he hid it.

    “That’s cool.”
    Chris had to swallow his mouthful before he choked on his food from the giggles. “You are a terrible actor. Admit it, you want him.” Chris bumped his shoulder against Snooke’s, teasing him to no end.
    “He likes long walks across the street from his apartment in the basketball court, sunsets that never happen, and meaningless relationships.” Chris stopped walking as peals of laughter erupted from his belly.
    “You are such a shithead.” Snooke wiped his mouth, laughing along with Chris. He liked having a friend, someone who he could relate to. Although Chris loved his band of warriors, somehow Snooke seemed more on his level. He didn’t feel like the runt of the group, but an equal.
    “Let me guess. Hondo