to the olde - open; joining

Let him think that. The lion's smirk widened as Corvus mentioned being the 'more competent brother,' a tall tale for all to hear. He could talk all he wanted, but Stryker knew that those that spoke about their greatness were never as good as they spoke of. Jervis was the same way. Eventually Corvus would learn his lesson. Nonetheless, Stryker would let him talk big. The members of the Coalition of the Condemned had already entered into his playing field and were well into his game. Their hearts and minds were already encapsulated in his grip. Any attempt to release his subjects would result in disdain and his removal, especially after his younger brother's signature false truths. The Kingpin would let him run rampant though. He liked watching him scramble.

A snort echoed out from Stryker's throat. "Well, you can blame Caesar for his lack of flare. It was rather... disappointing." His head momentarily shifted behind him. Neon orbs searched for a glint of bright yellow in the distance, but was met with nothing. Unsatisfied, the Kingpin's gaze returned to his brother. "I merely worked behind the scenes." A well-earned end for Snowbound, but not how he would have imagined it. Although Stryker had managed to spill some blood, it was never as much as he liked. The clan that let his parents die without a fight due to their pacifist culture deserved to suffer. Luckily, he had Atbash on his paws currently. Vigenere was an added bonus too. Their time would come, just like the rest. Fate worked in mysterious ways, especially after his prolonged absence.  "Your presumed taste would involve a lot more impulse and unintelligible plots, so I wouldn't be the one to speak." A light hearted wink came Corvus' way. To note, his attempts would be miscalcuated too. His unorganized web of lies would bite him in the ass, especially during pressing times. If his brother had changed over time, he would have given him the benefit of the doubt, but Stryker still saw his younger brother from years ago. Unlike Corvus though, Stryker could string a web of lies and get away with it over time. The black lion was too impatient, wasn't he? At least he thought so, especially since Corvus always had a distasteful agenda. Perhaps he was doubting his capabilities though.

A hum left Stryker nevertheless. Another animal to their dwindling numbers was always welcome. "Then so be it," he declared. "Welcome to the Coalition of the Condemned, brother of mine."