In the darkened hideout where Abomination had taken refuge, the only sound was the faint hum of machinery and the occasional drip of water from the ceiling. The hideout was a far cry from the comfort and power he had once known, but it served its purpose—keeping him hidden while he plotted his next move. He was leaning against a wall, brooding over his latest failed attempt to capture Lucas, when his communicator buzzed. The name flashing on the screen made him scowl: Zane.
Abomination answered the call, his voice a low growl. "What is it, Zane?"
Zane's voice crackled through the device, tinged with annoyance. "Have you caught Lucas yet? You're running out of time, Abomination. I need that Alpha Energy."
Abomination clenched his jaw, his frustration palpable. "I haven't caught him yet. He slipped through my hands. I need more time."
Zane's sigh was audible even through the communicator. "More time? You promised results. What's the problem?"
