The Thin Line

[Shinros]

So my last story was King's Fall, I wrote it without an outline, this story is with an outline just like the Abasement of Greyfall. The Thin Line is part of the Greyfall "saga" and I am using this story to also keep my third person writing up to snuff. After seeking some advice from some helpful fellows I produced the outline for this story. I hope you all enjoy it. 

 

For those who want to read The Abasement of Greyfall

 

http://www.bolterandchainsword.com/topic/361685-the-abasement-of-greyfall/?do=findComment&comment=5471570

 

 

Prologue 

 

 

The grey smog filled the office, it encircled the room completely. The foul smelling smoke was his own doing, he didn’t mind the odour but he was surprised that his guest didn’t move an inch on his seat, he was still, he appeared to be in absolute control. That was the one thing he liked about Marius. The lines on his nut-brown skin bore the mark of clear age; it was the sign of a smart individual. He was similar to his old friend in a way, it was why he has lived as long as him. Many have called Vidar an old dog because of it. 

     Marius, his "friend" was an ecclesiarchy priest, members of the Cathedrum quarter rarely ever come to the Factorum Sites or even the Housing Blocks. Vidar was partly to blame because he was the leader of the Grey Hounds, it was a gang in crude terms but he considers his group to be more of a fraternity. His merry band of misfits were made up of those who wished to be more in this life than a cog in a simple machine. Vidar adjusted himself on his seat, while Marius still gave the air of control until he raised his hands and placed a file onto the desk. 

     Vidar rolled the cigar in his mouth. ‘What’s this?’ he asked. 

     ‘Just look.’ Marius replied. Vidar didn’t need to hear anymore. He opened the file and what he found were seven pictures, all murder scenes. Strange symbols marked their bodies, the old dog furrowed his brow as he stared at the pictures. 

     ‘So, why have you come to me? Couldn’t you have given this to the Arbites or Enforcers?’ 

     ‘I have, I’ve investigated this matter myself before going to them. Trail leads nowhere, some of the deaths occur in closed rooms.’ Hearing the words coming from Marius’ mouth was causing Vidar’s skin to crawl. He has killed people, but he doesn’t mutilate them, he likes to be clean. Easier to sleep that way, but the issue was his supposed friend mentioning the closed rooms. 

     ‘What the hell is this?’ He had no idea what to make of the information or where to start. Or what the crude markings or the body meant.

     ‘I don’t know either but I was hoping if you had any information considering you live close to the underbelly of this city. I would also appreciate it if you break down some doors if able. If you solve the murders? I might even reward you. Service to Emperor so to speak, no one will ask any questions.’ 

     ‘Hmm, are you using a favour for this?’ 

     ‘Yes.’ That was it, the priest saved him from execution at one point. He had no idea why but he owed him for that. The fact he was using it now meant whatever was happening was serious. Vidar frowned, he hated working with the church, he hoped his fellow hounds were ready for a bumpy ride. 

Edited July 3, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Chapter 1

 

Chatter, screams, whips and cranking gears. That was his life, it was the life given to all factorum workers. Aldus Gartfort was an ordinary man of Tyriod, of this city. He stood on his section waiting for the lasgun to come up the conveyor belt, when it was in front him he pulled the lever activating the stamping machine, imprinting the weapon with the imperial aquila. 

     His work environment was grey, devoid of life and colour save the weapon which was a prim green and the aquila which was made of solid gold. The weapons he held in his younger days were more crude, but he quickly dropped the bad habit when his parents became ill. It wasn’t long after that they passed away. 

     Rather than returning to a life his parents didn’t want he signed up to the PDF, the issue was he was quickly kicked out for reasons he couldn’t understand. From there his life got worse. Aldus ended up here. He pulled the crank again, the stamping machine fell on another lasgun and as it rose the machine hissed, leaving behind sublime gold. That was when the siren consumed the workplace, the day was over for now. 

     Aldus stretched, his back was aching. But that didn’t stop him from leaving quickly, on the way out through the double doors his co-workers were gathering together to form groups, most likely to head to the nearest bar. Those who were whipped by the overseer were acting like nothing happened, it was normal. That was what Aldus hated, the grey overalls, the work and how everyone was doing nothing about it. 

     Upon exiting the factorum he was greeted by the muddy grey sky, not even one single light beam could get through. Aldus cursed. ‘For frek sake…’ 

     ‘Still upset?’ A gentle voice bought his attention down from the skies, he was greeted by someone he didn’t expect to see. She still had smooth pale skin, a round face with a scar on the cheek. The only thing that was new was the cape that came with white feathers and she was wearing flak armour. It was his ex-partner, Kira. She gave him a warm smile. ‘Ah, moody today aren’t you?’ 

     ‘The answer is still no.’ Aldus said firmly, he continued walking onward but Kira followed.

     ‘You can make a difference Aldus. It’s obvious you’re tired of this place.’ He didn’t look at her as she started to talk, she was everything he wasn’t. She had the thing he could never obtain. 

     ‘I can’t join your gang.’ 

     ‘It’s not a gang!’ Kira responded harshly, obviously she gets upset whenever he refers to the Winged Angels in such a fashion. In truth the Winged Angels weren’t a gang but more of a vigilante group. But some do see them as another criminal enterprise who want to throw their weight around. Aldus knew she was speaking the truth but he wanted to be spiteful for some reason. He sighed and glanced at her. 

      ‘Will they accept criminals?’ Aldus’ question stone-walled her, he then rubbed his neck as her eyes drifted away. In the past Kira ran off several weeks ago to join the “guardians” of the downtrodden. Aldus was then quickly kicked out of his parents apartment since it required two tenets or more. The governing body and the Imperium at large likes to be efficient. He was lucky that he could find a new place to rent. All of those events happening at once made him somewhat bitter, he knows Kira has tried to apologise but he couldn’t help but act this way. To many in the city joining a gang was the way out, to a world full of colour. They had the connections and the means to free someone, Aldus wasn’t ready to make that plunge. Not again.

     Kira eventually returned her gaze to him, she became determined. ‘I could talk to the leader of my flock, he could vouch for you!’

     ‘Now wa-’ She quickly ran off, she seemed excited. As she made some distance she turned her head back and smiled, to Aldus she was saying to trust her. That was when his heart fell, he didn’t finish his statement, he let her vanish into the crowd. Aldus couldn’t help but frown, he was tired of his life but the reason why was simple, he was weary of killing people. Even as a criminal, he thought he was a hero, a person keeping his small street clear. It was the same as PDF soldier, that was when his career in murder started. It didn't take him long to be kicked out, was he too violent? Too strict? Or perhaps a noble didn’t like his face so they had him removed? 

     Eventually he stopped thinking about it and headed home, thankfully he lived nowhere near the Housing Blocks, the New Order freaks have started hanging around the area and he wanted nothing to do with them. On the way back he spotted Grey Hounds shaking people down, the grey coloured flak armour and the brown dog symbol imprinted upon it gave away their allegiance. 

     Aldus forced himself to look away, he kept walking down the pavement until he arrived at Yrian’s Chronicles, a simple book shop and it was where he was staying. He headed inside, the doorbell rang, Yrian smiled but as he noticed who it was his wrinkled face drifted to a frown. ‘It’s you.’

     The young man smirked at Yrian’s bitterness, it was obvious he didn’t want him here, but it was Aldus’ rent money that was helping keep the store open. He barely had any customers, because most in the city save nobles can’t even read save their clocks to go to work. Civilians were cogs to be used and replaced. No need to dirty your hands, just watch the animals kill each other. That was a lesson he learned in the PDF when it also came to low-grade crime. ‘Yes I’m back, no lashes this time Yrian.’ he tried to speak in a jovial manner, but the old man grunted. 

     Aldus walked towards the counter, he paid no heed to the dusty bookshelves or the creaking floorboards. Yrian returned his gaze to a book he was reading, he sighed after a moment. ‘What do you want?’ 

     ‘Need to ask you something, what do you think of the Winged Angels?’ Yrian’s eyes came up again as the young man asked the question, the old clerk actually fell into thought before responding. 

     ‘They’re better than the other lot, keep the streets clear of filth at least.’

     ‘Until an innocent gets caught in the crossfire.’ Aldus replied. 

     ‘True, but it’s better than nothing. Too many in this city become part of the environment, a grey stone that will add further to the misery of this world.’ Aldus was shocked to hear such a thing from his landlord. He didn’t know he cared about such things. 

     ‘So what are you then?’ he asked. 

     Yrian sighed before speaking. ‘Just grey stone, like you. Now leave me alone.’ Aldus frowned, he then shrugged and went to the back. It was essentially a storage room, the boxes littering the area were full of books. Aldus paid no heed to Yrian’s useless collection and headed upstairs, there wasn’t much of the upper levels save a corridor and three rooms. One belonged to him and the other was owned by Yrian. The last room at the end of the corridor was both the shower and the toilet.

     Being here that was when the aches returned, a cascade of pain ran down his back like a tide. Aldus stretched, he yawned and entered his room and as he closed the door he grimaced. He owned nothing here save the alarm cloak on the desk, a day would come when Yrian would want him gone. He hoped such a day would never arrive. He walked towards the window and opened it, allowing the breeze in. After that he undressed and threw his grey overalls onto a chair, he yawned one more time as he set the alarm on the cloak and went straight to bed. 

     While lying there the conversation he had with Kira came to him, especially the words “Trust me.” She didn't outright say it but the smile was a clear sign. He wanted to trust her, deep down he wanted his life to gain meaning again. Unlike him, she found it. He wondered if her world had any colour within it? Aldus would like to see it, someday. But if he was realistic, it would never happen. The Winged Angels hate and despise criminals, even ex-criminals. That was their single truth, it was why they fight against the dark tide seeking to claim the city. He could never be like them even if he wished he could be.   

 

[Shinros]

Chapter 2

 

Aldus yawned as his eyes opened, his head drifted to the window, he then looked at his clock and cursed. He woke up early again, he was about to turn on his bed to get back to sleep until the sound of a crowd drifted through his open window. As the seconds ticked away the sound grew in height, Aldus grunted and got up from bed. He walked towards the open window. 

     What he saw outside made him frown, everyone was gathered around an alleyway, the Grey Hounds were trying to keep people back. He had no idea why they were acting like enforcers, but he had to guess this was about reputation. If people in the area felt unsafe they weren’t going to pay the supposed “protection” tax. If people don’t pay, that leads to violence. Aldus could see the body in the alleyway, he thought it was just another murder or gang killing, but he caught the hint of a white cape with feathers.

     It wasn’t normal to see a Winged Angel here, especially in a place with a high concentration of Grey Hounds, with that realisation his body moved by itself. He had to check, he had to make sure. She was smart, she wouldn’t do something so stupid. As he came downstairs Yrian was up, readying the store to open. He said nothing to him, the old man didn’t care what Aldus was doing, he didn’t expect him to.

     Aldus continued onward, he headed outside straight towards the crowd in front of him. He pushed through the men and women, all the way to the front and when he got there he froze. It was Kira, lying dead in a pool of her own blood, eyes wide open. She wasn’t wearing flack armour, nor a vest. Strange lines were carved into her stomach. Two Grey Hounds were squatting, looking over her corpse. A man and woman. ‘Today was supposed to be normal…’ Aldus said in a hushed tone. ‘I would go to work… finish and then… then… she…’ 

     His eyes darted around, chiefly to the Grey Hounds guarding the entrance. His breathing began to slow, his grief started to twist violently, turning into something else. He walked up to one of the gang members guarding the alleyway. The young man he was standing in front of had short blonde hair and brown eyes. His general appearance was unkept and he wasn’t even wearing his armour properly. 

     Aldus was about to speak, but the gang member readied his blade, he began speaking first ‘Shove off, no one is meant to get any closer.’ Aldus’ grey world started to change, the grief was transforming. 

     ‘D-Did you do this?’ His voice was shaking, he couldn’t help it. 

     ‘So what if we did? What’s your damn problem? You want me to cut you open or somethin’?’ The thug tapped the back of his blade on Aldus’ shoulder. That was when his world turned red, a brilliant and wonderful red. Aldus' fist flew into the face of the Grey Hound, he didn’t get the chance to react. Aldus fist twisted the young man’s face on impact, there was also a crunch as he sent the thug to the ground. After his assault there was silence, eyes wide with shock and horror. 

     Aldus twisted to the second and last guard who was also stunned, his grief became a honed blade. He ran towards the second gang member, a woman. Again like the young man she was slow in raising her weapon. She was wielding a hand-stubber. Aldus didn’t strike her in the face, instead he wrapped the whole of his right arm around her neck, gripping it like a vice. He started squeezing, the woman flailed, she began firing her weapon as she tried to free herself. The gunshots caused the crowd to scatter.

     Ironically to Aldus the sounds were muffled, he could only hear his own heartbeat, his grief and his rage. Until a certain sound cut through it, one he didn’t expect to hear. It was clapping. His red vision darted to the alleyway to see the two Grey Hounds who were examining Kira’s corpse. The woman was copper-skinned, she has piercing green eyes. She was also holding a bow, a pack of arrows were also slung over her back. While the man was muscular, his skin was dark in colouration and scars lined his arms and face. He was the one clapping. ‘Are you going to let her go? You’re about to break her neck aren’t you?’ 

     The man’s voice was gravely, somewhat deep. Aldus caught a hint of expectation in it. ‘You killed her!’ Aldus hissed. ‘Freking murderers!’ He squeezed tighter on the neck he was holding, the gang member was gasping, it almost sounded like yelps to his ears. 

     The muscular man shook his head. ‘No, we didn’t kill her. Found her dead on our turf, crap like this can start a war, one we don’t need at the moment.’ Aldus wanted to believe him, but he sounded almost disappointed. But looking into his brown eyes Aldus could tell he wasn’t lying, but at the same time it was obvious that he wanted something. He released his grip, the gang member dropped to the ground, she began coughing harshly. 

     ‘So do you know something!?’ Aldus demanded. 

     ‘How about you be more respectful before we kill you? Stop and think.’ the woman next to the man added herself to the conversation.

     ‘Shut up!’ he shouted. ‘Ju-’ Aldus didn’t get to finish, a metal bar was slammed into the side of his head. It sent Aldus sprawling to the ground, his vision turned blurry due to the impact. But even if that was the case he saw more Grey Hounds standing around him. Words wer being exchanged between them, Aldus tried to keep hold of the red haze, but it was slipping away. The grey haze quickly returned to take its place, that foul colour which was devoid of meaning, slowly the grey haze shifted to absolute darkness.  

 

 

Aldus’ eyes slowly opened, his head hurt. He groaned in pain but he was now in a murky room which was dimly lit. He was also sitting on a chair and his hounds were bound. Aldus cursed to himself as he realised his situation, what he did on the street quickly came by like a high tide. Even if he was a dead man, he would do it again. The fact he was set in front of a door meant he had some time, the Grey Hounds wanted to either make an example of him or they wish to talk. 

     He hoped it was the latter, he took a deep breath and waited. After about ten minutes or so the door opened revealing the muscular man and copper-skinned woman. But they were with someone else, an old man with wrinkled-olive skin, he was also wearing an eyepatch with the symbol of the Grey Hounds stitched upon it. 

     Unlike the other gang members he was wearing a grey suit with a military jacket laying upon his shoulders. The muscular man pulled a chair from the side and set it front of him, while the copper-skinned woman closed the door. The old man then took the seat in front of him. He sat there for a time staring, Aldus said nothing he wasn’t stupid. If he did something wrong here, the old man will kill him. 

     The seconds steadily ticked away, the old man’s escorts were now standing behind him waiting, Aldus tensed as the old man reached into his jacket, his heart then started thunder in his chest but he relaxed as he saw the cigar. The old man lit it up, that was when he began speaking. ‘Graham and Cornelia are telling me you attacked my men. Most wouldn’t dare to, what would make you do such a thing?’ 

     The words of the old man caused Kira’s corpse to flash within Aldus’ mind, he started to wrestle with his bounds. The smouldering anger was returning, but he tried to keep a level head. His life was on the line. ‘You killed her.’ he said flatly. 

     A snicker erupted from the old man’s mouth, he shook his head. ‘No, we didn’t kill her. I like my Dogs to be clean about their kills, but before we move further I have a proposition for you.’ 

     ‘What sort of proposition?’ 

     ‘I, Vidar wish to extend a hand to you. I want to join my merry band. You might be interested since you girlfriend was killed.’ 

     ‘She wasn-’ 

     ‘Spare me, your reaction told me you’re a man still in love. Going by Graham’s description of the event. But I also learned something else.’ Vidar leaned back slightly, he grinned. ‘You’ve killed before. What are your credentials? Don’t worry I’m not going to kill you if you refuse my offer, but I know you won’t.’

     Aldus considered what he was going to say, this was a step forward. ‘When I was younger I ran with a small gang, nothing major, nothing big. Shaking people down or beating people up who moved on our tiny streets. I was a housing block resident back then.’ 

     Vidar slowly nodded. ‘I see, there are many small groups in those areas, but now they are solidifying themselves under the Order of the New Dawn. Strange folks aren’t they?’ 

     Aldus winced, he didn’t want to think about them. Their fanaticism was a strange sight to see, their rhetoric normally shifts to an anti-Imprieum stance as well. If one wanted to avoid being burnt at the stake by the priests or their miltia you would steer clear of them. ‘I know them.’ said Aldus. ‘Yes, they are strange but you were asking for my credentials?’ 

     ‘Yes, right. Please do go on.’ 

     ‘Well, after my parents fell ill I left the crime scene. Didn’t take them long to die, in their memory I joined the PDF. Got some basic training, cleared houses that held seditionists. Normally they’re outgunned. Solid slug weaponry can’t get through flak armour and lasguns tend to cleave right through cloth and even chainmail. After a while I got kicked out for reasons that are beyond me.’ Aldus watched Vidar nod earnestly, was he impressing him or was the act a simple show? He couldn’t tell. He eyed the military jacket. ‘You’re ex-military as well?’ He recognised the structure of the jacket, but it had no iconography. 

     The old man nodded at his question. ‘You’re correct. But that was a long time ago, just to let you know most of the Grey Hounds are ex-military.’ He spared a glance at Graham. ‘Graham is like me, you were a sergeant weren’t you?’ 

     The muscular man gave a curt nod to the question ‘Yeah I was. One of the unlucky ones who got to retire. Brass wouldn’t take no for an answer.’ Aldus raised his eyebrow at the mention of being unlucky, what did he mean by that? Vidar quickly returned his gaze to him. 

     ‘Tell me boy, what’s your answer?’ Vidar’s face became grim, how he answered would determine whether he would live or die, so his answer would be obvious.

     ‘I will join you.’ 

     ‘Good, Cornelia cut his bonds.’ The woman nodded, she walked behind Aldus and cut the rope holding his hands. When the limbs became free he bought them forward and rubbed his wrists, Cornelia returned to her original spot. ‘Now Aldus, since you are one of us I have a job for you. One that you’ll be interested in.’ The old man reached into his jacket again, he pulled out a photo and handed it to him. It was a picture of Kira’s murder scene, Aldus gritted it his teeth. 

     Anger flooded his system, she needed justice. She didn’t deserve to die this way, no one does. But in this drive he saw something in the picture. He pushed aside the markings and lines on her body, his gaze honed in on a word, written in her own blood, on the ground ‘Stop.’ Aldus said out loud. 

     ‘Aye, know anything about that?’ Vidar asked. 

     ‘N-No, but I assume you are investigating this murder right?’ 

     ‘Murders, son. Not murder. Your girlfriend is the 8th victim. Got a serial killer on our hands. The death of your girlfriend has made things serious for me, a Winged Angel dead in my territory? That’s bad news, could mean war considering how uptight those lot are. Even though they are fighting the New Dawn cult they have the numbers to wage war with us as well. Those angels have a lot of star-eyed filled fools ready to throw their lives down at the chance of some better tomorrow.’ 

     Aldus stared at the image intently for a few more moments, his eyes then came up to Vidar. ‘Can I really join this investigation?’ Cornelia scoffed, no one in the room reacted. But the old man smiled again, displaying his pearly white teeth. ‘Glad you’re on board. You got good eyes young man, I can tell. You’ll join Graham and Cornelia, some of my best. Perhaps you might even find justice?’

     His new “boss” was incredibly satisfied, but why wouldn’t he be? Aldus has given him everything he wanted. That was the truth of the situation, but Aldus knows if he was murdered Kira would do anything to find the perpetrator. What he does now was for her and perhaps he might also give some peace to those who were killed as well. Kira would expect such a thing from him. He can’t let her down.

Edited June 29, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Tried to correct chapter 2 on my phone, it ruined the paragraph indentation. I can only fix it when I get back home in several hours. Sorry about that. Edited June 29, 2020 by Shinros

[Graceless]

Hey Shinros, I'm enjoying the story. Keep going.

 

Off to read your other stuff now 

[Shinros]

Hey Shinros, I'm enjoying the story. Keep going.

 

Off to read your other stuff now 

Thanks, I hope you enjoy whatever story your going to read. The next chapter for The Thin Line is coming either today or tomorrow. Got caught up by real life which has delayed things. As I mentioned in my opening post I wrote King's Fall without an outline, don't know how some authors do it very hard to avoid plotholes when you just wing it. 

[Shinros]

Chapter 3

 

Aldus was escorted out of the murky room. Proper introductions were done as they left. The old man then turned to Aldus and tapped his shoulder. ‘Well I’ve got paperwork to do. These two will take you home, expect a package.’ Aldus said nothing in return, he gave a simple nod. He had to be careful now, Vidar had power over him. He couldn’t make any mistakes. The leader of the Grey Hounds tapped his shoulder again and walked down the dimly hallway. Once he was gone Aldus scratched his chest, his gaze shifted between Graham and Cornelia. 

     ‘Sorry about this…’ He had a feeling his apology was going to be useless, essentially he had been given to the veterans of the gang which meant they have expectations. Cornelia crossed her arms. She frowned at him. 

     ‘Save it, the Old Dog gave his decision. He won’t change his mind.’

     ‘Old dog?’ 

     ‘It’s the other name for Vidar.’ Graham added. ‘Now, let’s go. Follow me.’ Aldus did as the muscular man asked, they all walked through the base. To his eyes it appeared to be a community centre, there were halls which were converted into either an armoury or training ground. Some held beds and bunks, he also had a feeling Graham was taking the long way. This was essentially a tour so to speak. Eventually he was taken to a lift, Graham pressed the down button. Silence was still held between them all, even as the lift arrived and as they entered. Graham then pressed the button for the ground floor. The machine shuddered and took them downstairs. Aldus who was becoming weary of the silence, he tried to strike up a conversation. 

     ‘Is there a reason so many of the Grey Hounds are ex-military?’ Cornelia said nothing, which he expected. It was obvious that she disliked him which will make things difficult. Surprisingly Graham responded. 

     ‘We got nothing better to do, we are men and women who are trained to kill and destroy the enemies of mankind. What happens when we are abandoned? Left to rot in a factorum?’ 

     ‘I get it.’ said Aldus. 

     ‘Do you?’ Graham’s eyebrow perked up slightly. ‘You were just a PDF soldier, but I am a fair man, we’ll see what you can do.’ That was it, Graham said nothing more to Aldus. The lift doors then opened revealing an underground parking lot. They walked towards an armoured car, it was fitted with plates and the symbol of the Grey Hounds was imprinted on the driver’s door. Cornelia headed to the passenger seat to the front, Aldus was about to go to the back but Graham stopped him. ‘Just a moment, come with me.’

     The request confused Aldus, but he complied. Graham took him to the back of the car and opened the boot. There was nothing there save a metal pipe, dented and covered with blood. Graham picked it up, he turned it over for a few moments. A smile then graced his lips. ‘One of the boys whacked you with this, it didn’t cave in your skull though.’ He pushed the pipe closer to Aldus’ eyes. ‘Look at the dent, the one who smacked your head in had bruised hands as well.’ 

     ‘I… don’t understand.’ said Aldus. Those words were the only thing that came to his mind as he stared at the bloodied weapon. The longer he stared at it, that was when red lines began to crawl across his eyes, a strange sensation then gripped him. He could only describe it as... satisfaction, but where was it coming from? He rubbed his temple, the lines retreated at the gesture. ‘Can you tell me the point of what you are showing me? Maybe I just got lucky?’ 

     ‘Hmm, luck. My comrades could have used that. Probably would have saved them from being torn apart by aliens.’ Graham returned the pipe and closed the boot, Aldus couldn’t help but reach for the back of his head. It didn’t hurt, there were no stitches either. That fact caused a chill to run through his body. Graham chuckled at this for some reason. ‘I actually think we can be friends, not too many people who are lucky in these parts.’ 

     The Grey Hound kept chuckling and walked around to the driver’s seat, as the door slammed Aldus jumped and hurried to the seat in the back. All the while he vehemently denied what Graham just said, if he was truly lucky Kira would be alive right now.  

 

 

 

Aldus’ face was pressed on the window, again silence reigned between them all. It was different compared to his criminal or PDF days, they were all loud and boastful. Ironically he didn’t partake in most conversations, he was silent like Graham and Cornelia. He expected his drive back home to be eventful, but the world-his world was still grey. 

     Everything was still the same so far, they passed lesser gangs shaking down those who walked on the wrong roads, workers who were hunched over rubbing their backs after hours of work. The pleasure houses were still running, their blinking bright signs attracting men and women who were beaten down by life and finally the bars. The drunk stumbled out, they were slurring and cursing their overseer. Aldus sighed at all of this. ‘They’re lucky you know.’ said Cornelia. 

     Aldus blinked in surprise, he could see Cornelia was staring as well. Graham’s eyes were on the road. ‘What do you mean?’ he asked. 

     ‘Think about it, their lives are ordinary. They worry about simple things and have simple wants. You're at the edge of the abyss now Aldus, darkness is ahead of you. The PDF is a children’s show compared to what we deal with.’ A smirk lined Graham’s lips, he said nothing but Aldus was beginning to feel uneasy. 

     ‘But I am doing something that matters.’ he replied. 

     ‘So are they. We can let you off, Vidar won’t mind. We’ll explain that you didn’t have the stomach for this.’ Her words made him sit upright. Frustration and anger flooded his system, the emotions were simmering, they were ready to begin boiling. 

     ‘What do you know?’ Aldus’ voice was level and firm. ‘Freking monsters killed someone I cared about. A person who made my word a little brighter each day even though we weren’t together anymore. She deserves justice.’ 

     ‘And you’ll be the one to deliver it then?’ Cornelia's gaze was still directed outside. 

     ‘Who else? The Enforcers are corrupt and the Arbites only care about the laws of the Imperium being broken. They see us as animals.’

     ‘I’m jealous of them you know.’ Aldus raised his eyebrow, was she suddenly changing the subject? ‘Not knowing anything, only dealing with basic aches. Drowning themselves in alcohol with friends.’ Now she looked back, just enough so he could see a part of her face. That was when he saw it. Her eyes, the green eyes were dull and without life. How come he only noticed this now? But that one fact did little to quiet the anger, his drive to crack the mystery surrounding Kira’s death. 

     ‘You’re not going to change my mind. Do remember I-’

     ‘We’re here.’ Graham interrupted. The car slowly grew to a stop near the pavement. They were also right in front of the alleyway where Kira was killed. Cornelia took her attention away from Aldus, she seemed done with the conversation. Graham jabbed his thumb in the direction of Yrian’s Chronicles. ‘Try not to look at the alleyway.’ Aldus couldn’t help but stare, the body was gone. Most likely collected by Enforcers, all that was left were blood stains. There was no tape either limiting access to the area and there was no one around investigating the crime scene. 

     ‘No one cares.’ Aldus said under his breath. He got out of the car, he didn’t say his goodbyes to his new “allies” because Graham drove off as soon as the door was closed. Aldus didn’t take anymore time to linger on the alleyway, he was fully aware of what Tyroid was like now. He headed home, the store was still open. 

     Yrian glanced up from his book upon entry, he raised his eyebrow. ‘Oh, you’re alive. I thought you were dead.’ He actually sounded disappointed which strangely made Aldus smile for some reason. 

     ‘Seems so old man.’ 

     Yrian sighed in response. ‘There is a package upstairs for you. Some hooligans dropped it off a few hours ago. I wanted to reject it, but I didn’t have much choice when it comes to these blasted gangs.’

     ‘How big was it?’ 

     ‘It’s not that large, somewhat heavy but I’m warning you. Don’t bring trouble to my store, whatever you’re involved in keep it outside.’ 

     ‘Don’t worry. I won’t bring my troubles in here.’ 

     ‘Good.’ The old man’s attention returned to the book, Aldus took that as a sign he no longer wanted to talk, So he  headed to his room. When he entered he found the package sitting on his bed. It wasn’t that large; it was wrapped in cardboard and tape. Aldus hurried and opened it. What he found inside was a flak vest. It was grey and had the symbol of the Grey Hounds imprinted on it, the snarling dog.

     As he held the armour his fingers began to numb, he then clutched the armour to his chest. He didn’t scream or cry in grief. Such emotions would get in the way of justice. It was in that small moment his PDF training slowly trinkled back to him. The memories slid gently into his mind, he was ready.  

Edited July 7, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Small edit update, the armoured truck changed to a car. Felt it would fit better. Chapter 3 has been updated. 

 

Chapter 4

 

Aldus twisted and turned on his bed, he couldn’t sleep, it was difficult. It was now early morning and strangely he didn’t feel tired. There were no aches creeping through his body or fatigue. He couldn’t stop thinking about getting to work, that was when a knock graced his door. Aldus furrowed his brow, Yrian never bothers him, not if it has to. He grunted and answered the door. It was Graham. He crossed his arms. ‘Hurry up and get ready we got a job.’ 

     ‘Right, I’ll be downstairs in a minute. I hope Yrian didn’t cause you any trouble.’ 

     ‘The old man is alright, he just grunted upon seeing me. He knows how the city works.’ Graham's words didn’t reassure him he imagined he would get an earful whenever he comes back. ‘Anyway, hurry up we can’t waste any time.’ Aldus nodded, he closed the door and did as Graham asked. When he was fully suited up, he tapped the flak vest and headed outside. Graham was waiting for him in the corridor. 

      They said nothing to each other as they went downstairs, Yrian was reading his book as always and Aldus had no desire to disturb him. They both headed outside and the armoured car was parked in the same place as yesterday. But they didn’t enter the vehicle, Graham guided Aldus to the boot again he opened it and within the boot contained weapons. Autoguns, blades, lasguns and stubbers. Graham picked out a lasgun, he shoved it into Aldus’ hands. ‘You’re ex-PDF, I hope you’re not rusty with the weapon.’

     ‘You aim at centre mass with most weapons, lasguns barely have any kick-back which makes them useful weapons. Can recharge their power packs on the fire as well.’ Aldus checked the sights, the power pack and the muzzle as he replied to the Grey Hound. The motions came easy to him which made Graham raise his eyebrow. 

     ‘When was the last time you used a weapon?’ 

     ‘It’s been about five years.’

     ‘How interesting.’ Graham closed the boot. ‘Hope you don’t get cold feet.’ The muscular man walked to the driver’s door and entered the vehicle. Aldus took his place in the back, Cornelia was in the car she was looking out to the alleyway. She didn’t greet him but her eyes drifted to Graham as he started the car and began driving.

     ‘Do you think this one is going to be quick?’ she asked. 

     ‘Maybe.’ Graham replied. 

     ‘So what exactly is the job? Is it related to the murders?’ Aldus pushed himself into the conversation. Cornelia didn’t react to the act. 

     ‘In a manner of speaking.’ said Graham. ‘We’re going to clear out a small community centre that was taken over by the New Dawn or you can refer them to the New Order cult.’

     Cornelia scoffed ‘all of them are crazy, thinking the world will change.’ 

    ‘True, but they’re armed and they are fighting against the Winged Angels.’ Aldus' finger twitched as Graham said the name of the supposed guardians of Tyriod. Perhaps this cult was connected to Kira’s death. But when it comes to gangs nothing was simple, he knew that much.

     ‘But there is more to it?’ said Aldus. 

     ‘Yeah, there is.’ Graham replied. ‘The centre they took over is somewhat close to Winged Angel territory, getting rid of the fanatics should help smooth things over with the bleeding hearts but at the same time this is an outside job. Vidar is pulling out his favours for this.’ Cornelia’s eyes hardened at the explanation.

     ‘Outside job?’ she said firmly. ‘I get it, you don’t trust me but you should tel-’

     ‘Not now, we have a new blood remember?’ Aldus kept his mouth shut in this instance. It was obvious there was a sort of history that was beyond him at the moment. It was not a good idea to try and pick at wounds before a mission. Also as Graham said he was a new blood, he doubted either would tell him what was going on. The rest of the journey was met with silence, that was until they arrived at a run-down building. The paint was chipping off, while the brick work appeared to be in shambles, wooden planks also covered the windows. 

     Aldus grimaced ‘why are we parking right outside? Why not a few blocks down and hit the back entrance? The enemy most likely knows we are here now.’ 

     ‘You sure it’s only been five years mate?’ Graham was looking back to him, curiosity was lacing his eyes. ‘Most would be rusty after working a facoturm job for so long.’ All he could do was give a casual shrug in return to the question. Graham chuckled and shook his head. ‘Anyway, the New Order aren’t trained. They’re simple civilians who are waving around weapons while chanting their nonsense. Now let’s go.’

    That was it, they all got out of the armoured car Graham pulled out a hand-stubber from his belt while Cornelia readied an arrow. Aldus’ palms began sweating as he held his weapon, his grip upon it tightened. They all approached the door carefully, Graham pushed it open and took point.  

    The inside of the building matched the outside, the painting was peeling off, sections of the walls seem to be falling apart. Aldus noticed they had two places they could go, a set of stairs heading upwards and the double-doors in front of them. Cornelia made hand-signs towards the double doors, there were people on the other side. Question was how did she know? Graham gave a curt nod to her, they both approached the double-door. Aldus followed their lead. 

     Cornelia suddenly did something strange, she pressed her ear upon the double door. ‘N’yob…?’ she said in a hushed tone. 

     ‘Let’s head in. Gun down anyone you see.’ Graham said sternly, Cornelia nodded in return, she stepped back, giving Graham space. The Grey Hound’s hand grasped the handle, he gave a count. ‘1… 2.. 3!’ He barged into the room, Aldus tensed and followed. What they found were six individuals kneeling among the corpses. They were wearing tattered red robes, each of them were praying. Their entry caused the strange cultists to shoot up in surprise. 

      Graham and Cornelia didn’t hesitate, Graham fired his gun dropping two, Cornelia did the same but the speed at which she knocked her arrows surprised Aldus. His delay gave the last two the chance to charge him. He cursed and fired his lasgun, the red beam seared through the air cutting them down. 

     With the enemy dead Graham shifted his gaze to Cornelia. ‘Is that it?’ The question made her kneel and touch the ground, she closed her eyes for a few moments and as she opened them she shook her head. 

     ‘that was it.’ she answered. 

     ‘Good, now search the bodies.’ Cornelia did as Graham asked, Aldus also followed the order. First he examined the two he killed, one was a man and the other was a woman. Both were one the eldery and they had a spiral tattoo imprinted on their foreheads. The only thing he found on them was a tattered leather book. When Aldus realised this his stomach turned, they had no weapons. They were strange deviants but they were unarmed, this was murder. A priest may disagree but Aldus felt differently about the situation. 

     He took the book, his eyes then drifted to the other corpses. They were all Winged Angels, old white feathers were among the corpses. Each corpse was wearing full-flak armour, they even had long-range radios. ‘What on earth is going on?’ Aldus said under his breath. 

     Those words were like a trigger, the radio on a nearby Winged Angel began to fizzle. It was a low hum, Aldus looked around Graham and Cornelia weren’t reacting to it. He decided to approach the corpse, the one before him looked like a leader of sorts, his white armour was more embellished, the golden angel imprint and there were bird skulls on his belt. Aldus picked up the radio, he adjusted the settings and eventually a voice came through. The signal wasn’t all that clear.  

     ‘Mic..heal? A..re you a..live? D..ammit…’ The voice was broken, but also recognisable, something wasn’t right. She was dead. Aldus began speaking into it, he didn’t hesitate.  

     ‘K-Kira?’ 

     ‘Wha...t? I-’ 

     ‘What are you doing?’ asked Cornelia. Aldus quickly turned around, he clumsily switched off the radio. Both of his fellow gang members were staring at him, he tried to quickly answer the question. His eyes drifted to one of the strange cultists. Graham crossed his arms as he noticed this. 

     ‘It doesn’t matter if they don’t have weapons.’ Graham stated firmly. This was fortunate, the question was a way out. But he had to admit he was concerned about that one fact.

     ‘I’ve only killed people who had weapons.’ Aldus answered. ‘At most we killed a group of people who believed strange things.’ 

     Graham shrugged in return to what he just said. ‘And? In the guard we kill people for less.’ A moment of conflict brushed against Aldus’ heart, he wondered how many times he would have to do something like this? He sighed and shook his head, he got up to his feet. 

     ‘Alright, I see your point.’ He truly didn’t, he wasn’t in the mood for an argument. Plus he was far more concerned about the radio in his hand. Graham didn’t say much else, he gave the order to leave and that was it for the day. Even the drive back home was uneventful save the fact he couldn’t stop thinking about the radio. 

     When Aldus was dropped off at Yrian’s Chronicles neither Graham or Cornelia said goodbye, he didn’t expect them to. As he walked into the shop Yrian looked up, he stroked his chin for a moment before returning to reading. If the old man wanted to talk he would have said something, Aldus went upstairs to his room.

     The first thing he did was sit on his bed and switch on the radio, again there was static. But eventually the voice returned and it was far more clear. 

     ‘Aldus?’ Hearing his name made him clutch the radio tightly, his eyes began to water. 

     ‘You’re meant to be dead.’ he replied. 

     ‘I’m sorry, but I can explain. What you saw in that alleyway was a double. An insurance.’ Her answer made him blink in confusion, allowing the tears to fall. 

     ‘Excuse me?’

     ‘All I can tell you is that I work for someone powerful. Things went wrong and now I’m in hiding.’ This was a lot to take in, he shook his head trying to process what Kira was telling him. 

     ‘So.. what now? I joined a blasted gang to seek justice. What was the point?’

     ‘I had a feeling you would do that. But I think you’re in the right position. Which one did you join?’ 

     ‘The Grey Hounds. Didn’t have much choice. I... had to kill people today.’ 

     ‘You might have to kill many more in the future Aldus. On the Grey Hounds? They’re criminals but they’ll do. I can only rely on you for this, I can’t trust anyone else. You have to keep going. Don’t Stop.’ 

     ‘What about the Winged Angels?’ The question caused the static to return, Kira’s voice became a garbled mess. Aldus cursed, he tried adjusting the settings again but her voice wouldn’t return. He sighed and turned the radio off, he then headed to bed. His mind started to swim with strange thoughts and his heart became conflicted. Today, something amazing has happened but at the same time he still didn’t feel right with the murders. But as Kira said he had to keep going, she wanted him to do this. 

 

[Shinros]

Chapter 5

 

Aldus was sitting outside, on the pavement waiting for Graham to turn up. The lasgun which was given to him was resting across his lap, all the while he was speaking into the radio or adjusting it. Eventually it clicked and her voice came through. 

     ‘Sorry.’ Kira sounded sorrowful, which was strange because she was always upbeat. 

     ‘Don’t worry, where are you? The signal is quite poor.’

     ‘As I said I’m in hiding, I can’t tell you where I am. Perhaps it was by the Emperor’s grace that you found that radio?’ 

     ‘So the Emperor caused this?’ 

     ‘I think so, I think meeting you wasn't by chance. Keep going, I-’ She was cut off as the armoured car came around the corner, it parked in the same place, right in front of the alleyway. It was Graham and Cornelia. Static enveloped the radio, he cursed and switched it off. He got to his feet and brushed himself down as Graham exited the vehicle. 

     His fellow gang member was smiling. He seemed pleased. ‘You’re up early Aldus.’ 

     ‘Is that a problem?’

     ‘Well I hoped I wouldn’t have to get your arse out of bed everyday. Anyway, I want to let you in on something. It’s the place we are heading to today.’ 

     Aldus raised his eyebrow, he was confused. ‘Is something wrong?’ 

     ‘No, the issue is the person we are going to see. Just… don’t eat the food and try not to annoy Cornelia.’ His confusion didn’t stop, he slotted the radio into his flak vest.

     ‘Alright I’ll try to remember the rules, let’s go.’ They both headed to the car, as Aldus took his seat he could see Cornelia was in a foul mood, her arms were crossed, her body was brimming with anger. Graham was acting like nothing was wrong, he started up the car and began the journey. 

     The drive was ordinary until they turned on a road leading towards the center of the city, Aldus raised his eyebrow. The change was almost immediate, the stores were higher quality in terms of goods and customers. Instead of old book shops, markets holding only canned goods there were fresh fruit and vegetables, perfume was on display on the windows and the customers were wearing fresh suits and gowns. The cars parked on the roads were absolutely sublime, each car was bright in terms of colour and their hulls held no dents. 

     Aldus' mouth finally started to move. ‘What the hell? Why are we here?’ 

     ‘To get the reward for the job.’ Cornelia replied, her voice was level; he couldn’t tell whether she was upset or not despite her body language.  

     ‘From who?’

     ‘Lady Eva, leader of The Hunters.’ 

     ‘The what? Is it a gang? I’ve never heard of them.’ 

     ‘Yes it is a gang.’ Graham added. ‘One that most on the bottom of the ladder never hear about. They mainly operate in the housing blocks, but they’re the arm of the nobles. They want someone dead or a business burned? They turn to them, since the Enforcers don’t do jack for those on the bottom they will call on us. But that’s changed in the last few years.’

     ‘You’re referring to the Winged Angels.’ said Aldus. 

     ‘And the New Order.’ Cornelia remarked. 

     ‘Ok, so they’re our enemies. Why are yo-we doing work for them?’ 

     ‘Vidar needed information, they had it. Anyway, enough questions.’ Graham appeared to be getting annoyed, he was tapping his fingers on the wheel. Aldus decided to say nothing further, Cornelia also appeared to have no interest in further conversation. The environment has also shifted as well, they were no longer surrounded by stores, but instead mansions and homesteads lined the road. 

     Aldus was amazed, winged angels dotted the buildings, statues of the emperor consumed gardens and the world around him seemed so bright and vivid. He could even see the light from Tyriod’s sun breaking through the smog filled sky. He had to admit, he wished he lived here. He was captivated, but his sightseeing stopped as the car came to a screeching stop. 

     He jumped as this happened, his seat belt held him in place. ‘W-What’s going on!?’ he exclaimed. His eyes darted around until ahead of him he saw a checkpoint but the people guarding the checkpoint made him clutch his lasgun. They were all wearing flak armour, most of their heads were shaven, braided or their hair was combed to one side. Their weapons were a curious sight as well, they didn’t wield guns, only crossbows, blades and bows. 

     Graham looked back, but his eyes weren’t reserved for him but he gave an odd gaze to Cornelia as well. ‘Those are Hunters, don’t do anything stupid, don’t agitate them either.’ Aldus gave a nod but Cornelia didn’t react. Graham sighed and shook his head, he took the car forward, they were stopped. One of the hunters approached the driver’s window, he tapped his blade upon it. 

     The man's blonde hair was combed to one side, the other side of his head was shaved. His blue eyes seemed dull like Cornelia’s, which set Aldus on edge. Graham lowered the window, he forced a smile. ‘We’re expected.’ said Graham. 

     ‘Oh really?’ The Hunter gave Graham an arrogant smile, his eyes drifted to Cornelia. ‘It’ been a long time, you’ve finally decided to come home?’ 

     ‘Shut up Julian, just let us pass.’ Cornelia’s response made Graham close his eyes for a few moments, he was getting annoyed. 

     Julian licked his lips. ‘So what’s it like living in the dirt Cornelia? Tel-’ 

     ‘Lady Eda is expecting us? Do you want to keep her waiting?’ Aldus interjected himself into the conversation. It was evident Julian didn’t like that, he frowned while Graham ironically chuckled. 

     The Hunter kissed his teeth. ‘Move on, don’t cause any trouble.’ Graham didn’t waste any time he rolled up the window and continued driving. The Hunters let them through, but Aldus noticed that they were all staring. Their eyes seemed vacant to him and hungry as well. The road beyond the checkpoint was empty save cobbled walls and fields of grass. But in the distance on a small hill was a mansion. 

     As they creeped forward Aldus could tell Graham was becoming anxious which was strange to see.  He was sweating while Cornelia appeared absolutely calm. Aldus wasn’t sure how to react in this situation. He didn’t get much chance to process what to do, they were now at the mansion. In front of it were more Hunters. Graham shut off the car, he took a deep breath. ‘Make sure you leave the weapons in the car.’ He didn’t say anymore, Cornelia and Graham left the vehicle, as did Aldus. Their weapons were left behind.  

     Being in front of the mansion Aldus was again in awe, but unlike the other buildings there were no angels, the building was white and plain. The arches holding up the roofs did have dancing figures holding up pantry dishes, he didn’t know what to make of this. ‘Alright. Get in a line arms up.’ The Hunter called. 

     The words of the female Hunter brought Aldus' eyes downward, she was leading the Hunters in the front of the house. Her eyes were brown, her face was round and her black hair was combed to one side. She called out again, specifically to him. ‘Get over her. Now.’ 

     Graham and Cornelia’s were already in place, their arms were up. Aldus did as the Hunter asked, he quickly took a spot next to Graham, he held his arms up in a T pose with the others. First, the Hunter searched Cornelia when she found nothing, she moved to Graham next. She patted down his legs, checked his arms and as her hands reached his chest the Hunter furrowed her brow. She reached under his flak vest, his fellow gang member frowned at the movement. 

     She searched for a moment until she pulled out a sheathed knife, she wagged her finger at Graham and slotted the blade into her belt. It was as she stood in front of Aldus where he caught the hint of lavender, the Hunters were rich enough to buy perfume. The smell was both joyous and troublesome to him. He barely noticed her hands moving up and down his body but strangely she grasped his head which broke the spell the musk had over him.

     The Hunter was staring deeply into his eyes, she then chuckled at him. ‘You’re eyes are blue.’ she whispered. Aldus brow furrowed, his eyes were green, not blue. 

     ‘What are you doing? Can we hurry this up?’ Graham's voice was firm, he wasn’t happy. The Hunter released her grip, she nodded and smiled at Aldus, she walked towards the mansion door and opened it. 

     ‘Please head inside, be on your best behaviour dogs.’ Aldus could see the insult, but he said nothing. They all entered the mansion, he wondered what would await him inside?  

Edited July 7, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Chapter 6

 

The foyer was lavish, carpets, nude statues and bright lights filled the room. There were also two sets of curved stairs that head upwards to the second level. In the middle of the foyer stood a maid, Aldus noticed her black skirt was short and she was wearing boots. They’re also bodyguards as well, the uniform made that clear. The maid bowed to all three of them, she smiled at Cornelia. ‘Are you returning to fold Cornelia?’ 

     The question caused the bowman to frown, she pursed her lip at the maid. ‘Shove off Lisa, don’t talk to me.’ Lisa bowed again and gestured to the door on the right. 

     ‘Please follow me, Lady Eda is waiting for all of you in the dining hall.’ Graham grimaced, Cornelia’s mood appeared foul, but Aldus didn’t know what to think. The maid escorted them into the room and what they found was a dining hall, the table was covered with food, four chairs were present. At the head of the table was a woman wearing a black gown, her white hair was tied back and each of her fingers held silver rings shaped into skulls. Aldus assumed that was Eda, she rose from her seat. 

     As she stood up right Aldus was able to get a look of her face, her features were soft and her nose were aqualine but he noticed something else, her eyes were a soft purple. Eda gestured to the empty seats. ‘Please sit and eat you must be tired.’ Her voice was also soft as well, it was easy to listen to. But he recalled Graham’s warning, “don’t eat the food.” Aldus sat, so did the others.

     Lisa then walked to the table and began serving the food, there was a host of meat available, even fish but little vegetables. Eda leaned back, her eyes landed upon Graham. ‘How long has it been Graham?’ 

     ‘Too long.’ he replied. ‘Anyway, the job is finished. We got other work to do so I don’t think we can stay long.’ 

     ‘Oh really? I worked so hard to make all of this food, look Cornelia is even drooling.’ Graham’s eyes didn’t leave Eda but Aldus could see she was right. Speckles of saliva were dribbling from her lips, Lisa was also whispering in her ear and as she stepped back Cornelia’s dull eyes started to burn with life.

     ‘Lady Eda, please give us the information. We’ve come a long way.’ Graham appeared smaller to Aldus, but Eda’s presence was steadily becoming larger. He froze as Eda’s gaze locked upon him. 

     ‘Who’s this Graham? A new member?’ 

     ‘Yes he is new, I-’

     ‘He’s involved, I can tell. What’s your name young man?’ Eda interrupted.  

     Aldus tried to speak clearly. ‘My name is Aldus. I just joined recently.’

     ‘So what happened? Was someone you know one of the murder victims?’ Those words were like a trigger, the red haze started to appear. He was still angry, still hateful even though he knows the body in the alleyway wasn’t Kira. But Eda didn’t need to know that, nor did Graham or Cornelia. 

     ‘Yeah, my ex-girlfriend was killed.’ His lips were dry, he licked them, the gesture didn’t help. But the haze retreated. 

     ‘So you want revenge?’ The question asked by Lady Eda caused him to think, the drive was still there. Kira told him to keep going no matter the cost. 

     ‘Justice.’ Eda sighed at his answer, she shook her head. 

     ‘There is little justice in our line of work.’ Eda started eating and as she swallowed the piece of meat she dabbed her lips with a napkin. ‘The kind of threat we're dealing with doesn’t care about justice. But I’ll tell you something if you eat.’

     Aldus looked down to the foot, the meat was a bright red and cut into squares. Carrots were littered on the side of the plate without much else on it. Graham was watching him as was Eda, while Corenlia was still staring at her food drooling. Aldus picked up the fork, the action made Graham’s eyes widen slightly. But he didn’t care, he needed information. He had to do whatever it takes, Kira faked her own death eating a piece of meat was nothing next to that. 

     He planted the fork into the piece of meat, it squirted out a slight amount of blood. It was quite rare. He placed the meat in his mouth and chewed, the meat was somewhat salty. It was chewy, but he had to admit it tasted good. Better than anything he has eaten before in any bar he has frequented. As he swallowed the piece of meat Cornelia attacked her food like an animal, she was using her hands. Aldus jumped at the action, Graham shook his head but their host seemed awfully pleased. ‘Thank you Aldus, that’s all I needed.’ Eda picked up her wine glass and took a sip. ‘What do you want to know?’ 

     ‘Wait. You’re allowing us to ask questions?’ Graham’s eyebrow was raised, he was surprised. 

     ‘No.’ Eda replied. ‘Aldus can ask the questions.’ Graham grunted at the answer, Aldus tried to think of something useful to ask. An answer strangely came quickly to him. 

     ‘I’ve only seen one murder scene, but there were strange lines on the body of my ex-girlfriend. Do the lines have any significance?’ 

     ‘Good question, I’ve seen all the murder scenes. It’s not hard to get access to the pictures. Enforcers are awfully lazy on Tyriod. The lines I think have meaning, when you get the chance put the photos together. You might see something.’ Aldus made note of the hint, he moved to the next question. 

     ‘If you have access to the pictures of the murder scenes I wish to ask you about the message left behind by the latest victim.’ 

     ‘Stop, right?’ 

     ‘Yes, do you have any idea what that means?’ Eda shook her head gently to the question, Aldus cursed to himself. ‘Ok, so you’ve asked us to clear out a community centre held by the New Order. Are they connected to the murders?’ 

     The question made Eda frown, she kissed her teeth. ‘Blasted deviants, they like to poison the world’s food supply. To tell you the truth I sent you to kill their elders. They were there to… bless the grounds taken by some of their supposed holy warriors. Be glad that you killed them, you did the Emperor a service.’

     ‘So they aren’t connected?’ 

     ‘Well, I will let you in on something. I did background checks on all those killed, every single person was either connected to or part of the Winged Angels.’ 

     ‘What!?’ Graham shouted, the Grey Hound then rubbed his mouth as he digested the information. He then slammed his fist on the table ‘The cultists are trying to start a war aren’t they!? They Planted that corpse in our territory!’ 

     ‘That seems logical.’ said Eda. ‘The Winged Angels have the support of the bottom feeders, the Angels are just as fanatical as The New Order. Both wish to remake Tyriod, they’re rivals in a sense. If The New Order can cause a war, that would take the heat off them for a time.’ Aldus listened, but he wasn’t sure about that explanation. Something just felt off, he had no idea why he felt that way. 

     ‘I don’t have any more questions, thank you Lady Eda.’ said Aldus. 

     The noble smiled in return. ‘Think nothing of it darling, but I’ll let you go. Graham here seems eager to leave.’ That was it, Graham rose right away he thanked Eda as he dragged Cornelia away from the table. She was screaming for more meat as they left. Aldus hurried after them. Still he wondered why Eda wanted him to eat before asking any questions? In the end he felt he was a little closer to unravelling the mystery. 

 

 

Eda was looking through the window, the child might not be lost to her but the new addition to the Grey Hounds was an interesting curiosity. He took to the meat well, hopefully he comes back for more and then she can wrap him around her finger. She kept staring even as they left in their junk-heap in which they call a car. It was only the sound of plates moving where she turned around.

     Lisa was picking up Aldus’ plate. ‘Wait.’ she said. ‘Just a moment.’ The square meat pieces on the plate looked strange, the red vibrancy seemed more dull. The maid placed the plate back down and stepped back. Eda then walked forward, she picked up a square chunk and popped it into her mouth. She wrenched at the flavour and spat the meat onto the floor, she didn’t make that. It also tasted like normal meat, not the kind gathered by her Hunters. 

     She reached for a wine glass and took a few mouthfuls to clear away the foul taste, her mind quickly shifted back to Aldus. She thought he was red, but he might be blue. If that was the case this might be a problem. Was it happening now? Was the end coming? She found it was always best to act first. ‘Lisa.’ The maid stood at attention. 

   ‘Yes my lady? What is your desire?’ 

   ‘Make the preparations to leave the world.’ 

   ‘It shall be done.’ The maid left the room, Eda then spared another glance at the plate of food. An odd sense of uneasiness rippled through her. 

   ‘The hounds are red… not blue…’ she said under her breath. 

 

[Shinros]

Chapter 7

 

 

It’s been a few days since the meeting with Lady Eda, at the moment Aldus was looking up to the Grey Hound main base, smog was leaving several of the chimneys and the reinforced plating covering sections of the building seem to be starting to rust. The reason why he was here was because Graham hasn’t picked him up for days, it didn’t help either that Kira hasn’t contacted him as well. For a time he was becoming frustrated until a Grey Hound came to Yrian’s store. 

     They left a message to go to the base. Vidar wished to speak with him, he was waiting on the 5th floor. Aldus sighed and entered the base, on the way to the lift some of the Grey Hounds gave him strange looks. The kind that said “outsider” he didn’t like it. He hasn’t been here since he joined the gang so in a way no one knew him. Aldus pressed the button to head up and as the lift door opened he stepped inside and pressed the button for the 5th floor.

     The journey up didn’t take long, when the lift dinged the doors opened, Aldus walked out of the lift and what he found was his boss standing in the hallway, in front of a door. As their eyes met he called him over. ‘Come here Aldus.’ 

     He did as he was asked, he walked towards the Old Dog, when they were face to face he noticed the cigar in his mouth. ‘What do you need?’ Asked Aldus. 

     Vidar pointed to the door. ‘In there is a lead. When Graham gave me the information I thought that was it, sent the info to the one who hired us but guess what?’ 

     ‘What? We aren’t continuing the investigation?’ To Aldus that would be the worst outcome, but Vidar chuckled to his words. 

     ‘It’s the opposite, our.. contractor wants us to get to the bottom of this. They know something, they don’t want to risk themselves. So they are still relying on us.’ The old dog puffed on the cigar, when he blew out a gout of smoke he cursed. ‘Dammit... Should have known better. It’s too late now.’ He then pointed to the door next to the one that contains the lead. ‘In this room is the lead’s wife, this is getting serious. I need to know that I can rely on you.’

     ‘I… don’t understand.’ 

     ‘At the moment several people are being worked over for information. I have a feeling if we fail the church will put us on the chopping block. If you can’t get information out of the lead in twenty minutes I’ll kill his wife.’ Aldus’ eyes went wide in shock, Vidar lowered his hand and placed it into his pocket.

     ‘So, that’s the job for today. In you go.’ That was the order, Aldus broke into a sweat but he obeyed. He walked into the room holding the lead and closed the door. What he found made his gut turn, it was a Winged Angel, he was without his cape but he recognised the white armour. His olive face was bruised and his brown hair was a mess. The Winged Angel frowned upon his appearance. 

     ‘I always knew you lot were scum. This city will never get better as long as people like you exist.’ Aldus said nothing, he walked up to the bound Angel and stared for a few moments. The Angel chuckled. ‘You’re new aren’t you?’ 

     Aldus tensed at the remark, he wondered whether he should admit such a thing? But it seemed the Angel had the advantage over him. ‘I’m only here for justice.’ 

     The man laughed at him, it was the harsh kind. ‘So why are you hanging around with criminals then!?’ 

     ‘Didn’t have much choice in the matter. Kira wanted me to do this.’ Uttering her name made the body language of the Angel change. He shook his head slowly. 

     ‘You’re him aren’t you? Her ex right?’ 

     ‘So she talks about me?’ 

     ‘All the time damn time. Shame she’s gone, she would be disappointed if she saw you in that uniform though.’ Aldus narrowed his eyes at the Angel, he didn’t understand or has any idea how pragmatic she actually was. 

     ‘You don’t know her.’ Aldus said firmly. 

     ‘Oh really? I’m sure I don’t understand the woman who cries that the one she cares for is wasting hi-’ Aldus punched him in the face, blood splattered on the ground. As the Angel’s face came back to him his lip and cheek was bruised further, he spat blood onto his armour. ‘F-Frek you. Once a criminal, always a freking criminal.’

     ‘You don’t know me, but you better start giving me information on the murders.’ As he said murder the Angel chuckled. 

     ‘So, I’m being tortured for the sins of bloody deviants. Heretics that seem to want to tear down our world.’

     ‘Is the New Order cult actually involved?’ 

     ‘Cause they are bloody involved! Or are you too busy shaking down innocent people to notice!?’  

     ‘Or perhaps that’s your own bias talking?’

     ‘Have you actually seen what the heretics are like!? Have you actually fought them!? They drag people away in the night!’ Aldus clutched his hands, he knew all those who were killed were connected to the Winged Angels in some fashion. Logically it would be easy to say the strange cult are the culprits since they’re warring with the Winged Angels. Yet, the answer seemed too simple, too easy. 

     ‘You’re lying.’ 

     ‘What!? Shu-’ He punched the angel in the face again. Kira told him to keep going, he needed to find the culprit. It was his duty, his reason. For once in his life he felt he was doing something relevant. Aldus grasped the man’s hair, he said the first thing that came to his mind. 

     ‘I don’t think the leaders of the gangs would jump into a war so easily. To me it seems they know each other, at most you might get a skirmish, a few deaths but they would smooth it over. They like business, their business got interrupted by the Winged Angels and the New Dawn or New Order, I personally don’t care for either name. I think these murders are a way to force the other gangs to pick a side.’ 

     ‘Y-You think we will kill our own? All those people… Just for you to fight the heretics?’

     ‘I never mentioned that those killed were connected to the Winged Angels, how did you know that?’ Aldus’ question caused the man to turn white like a sheet, he gulped. ‘So you know something, I hope you’re aware that your wife is in the other room. If you don’t give me something the actual criminals will kill her.’ 

     Speaking of the man’s wife caused him to break into a sweat, Aldus released his grip, the Angel’s head sagged slightly as he let go. ‘Martha is in the other room..?’ 

     ‘Yes, my fellow gang members will kill her if you don’t give me something. I can tell you’re a good man.’

     The Angel bit his lip, he shook his head. ‘Ok, fine... There are rumours surrounding those killed. They were strange, they liked to gather around and whisper of patrons and the like. They approached me actually, specifically Kira. She talked about a better and brighter tomorrow. There was a benefactor who was interested in us but wanted to see if enough members were interested before they would lend help.’

     Aldus crossed his arms as he heard Kira’s name, he truly wondered what she was involved in? ‘I assume this is a noble right?’ 

     ‘Yeah, at least according to her. Apparently not of all of them like Eda, they want the city to become better, like us.’ He narrowed his eyes at the statement given by the Angel, Aldus shook his head. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing, nobles didn’t care for the poor, they call them bottom feeders for a reason. 

     ‘Nobles don’t care about people like us.’ 

     ‘That’s what I said, so I turned her down. A lot of people did actually, nobles are a sore topic among the Angels. I think… that’s why she was killed. I-’ The door opened revealing Vidar, Aldus turned to him. 

     ‘Time’s up?’ 

     ‘Yup, come out here.’ Aldus spared a look at the dejected Winged Angel, he gave him the information because the life of his wife was on the line. He felt dirty staring at him, perhaps it was guilt that was brushing against his heart? But what’s the point of such an emotion after he assaulted him? He left the room, Vidar closed the door on his way out. 

     ‘So tell me boy what did you learn?’ 

     ‘Apparently, Kira, my ex-girlfriend, was part of a group who was trying to get the Winged Angels to accept a benefactor. According to our lead he guesses that she was killed because nobles are a sore spot among the Winged Angels.’

     ‘Hmm, interesting. I assumed the Winged Angels didn’t touch the murders thinking it would spur us on against the New Dawn eventually. Issue is some of the murders happened in closed rooms.’ 

     That piece of information caused Aldus’ mind to spin, a closed room could only mean suicide. But Kira was found out in the open, why would her body double kill herself? ‘Boss, I don’t understand.’ 

     ‘This means something nefarious is going on boy, something evil. If my hunch is correct things are going to get bad. Anyway, you did a good job but the wife and the Angel have to die.’ 

     ‘W-Wait what!? Why!? I did as you asked!’ 

     ‘Loose ends and all that. We can easily blame it on the New Order, it won't be hard to plant their corpses. Aldus, as I said something evil is coming towards us, we need to cover our tracks. We need to be careful. You did a good job, head home and get some rest.’ The Old Dog tapped Aldus on the shoulder, he entered the room he left and in a few moments there was a gunshot. Aldus wiped his hands down his face, he should have expected this. He should have seen this coming. After all, the Grey Hounds are criminals. 

 

 

Aldus was standing in front of Yrian’s Chronicles, his knuckles were aching. He sighed and headed inside. The doorbell rang, Yrian looked up. ‘Oh you seem especially tired today.’ for once he sounded earnest which was strange, Aldus also spotted a package on his desk. 

     ‘What’s that? It might be mine.’ The old man never gets mail, considering the work he was doing Vidar might have sent him something.  

     ‘No, it belongs to me.’ Yrian reached for the package, he opened it and pulled out a small dataslate. ‘I’ve found the information on here quite fascinating. How is your investigation going?’ The old man then reached under the counter, he pulled out a plasma pistol. One shot from that would end him, question was where did he get such a thing? Aldus raised his hands. 

     ‘W-Wait, Yrian what are you doing?’ 

     ‘Need to see if you’re a heretic or not. So tell me, how is the investigation going?’ 

     ‘W-Well, I think… I think… something evil is at play here. Those killed belonged to a group who wanted the Winged Angels to accept a new benefactor. They were killed for this. I think most see this as a ploy to get the gangs involved in the war between the New Order and the Winged angels.’

     ‘You’re smart I give you that, well done.’ He lowered the weapon, Aldus sighed in relief but he was still in danger. The weapon was still on top of the counter. ‘Aldus, I work for someone important. But as you said evil is gathering. Don’t know from where though. Do forgive me for threatening you.’

     Aldus blinked in shock, he remembered what Kira said about working for someone important. Perhaps Yrian and Kira had the same boss? He decided to keep the thought to himself, Yrian seemed to be in a “good” mood. ‘So you work for someone important, were you using me to do your investigation?’ 

     The old man smiled. ‘My… you are smart. You’re correct, but why do you think I revealed such a thing to you now?’

     The question was a surprising one, was the old man testing him? ‘You didn’t want to tip your hand too soon until something tangible turned up. Are you being watched?’ Yrian smiled, he took that as a yes. ‘So what is this evil?’ 

     ‘Can’t tell you yet.’ Yrian offered the dataslate to him. ‘Take a look, the images of the murder scenes are there.’ Aldus grumbled, he took the device and turned it on, he quickly found the images and saw they were arranged. The lines were connected, forming what seemed to be a map. ‘Do you know where that is?’ 

     The question was an interesting one. It appeared to be the housing block area, the symbols on Kira’s corpse made up the middle part of the map, there was an X on top of a building. He focused on the symbol then it hit him. ‘That’s the Winged Angels main base… why?’

     ‘Why indeed, Vidar your boss had me rearrange the pictures. I’ve already sent the information to him. It’s not going to be pretty Aldus, what happens after this will be bloody.’ 

     ‘You mean war right?’ 

     ‘Indeed, I imagine Vidar wants to deal with this situation right away. But I think it’s too late, whatever you find in that base the ecclesiarchy will kill all of you. They wish to have useless criminals spring the trap and then clean up the mess afterwards.’

     ‘We’re trapped? I’m a dead man walking?’ 

     ‘Well yes, your survival will greatly depend on how you handle yourself from here. Don’t stop.’ Those words were like a trigger, he returned the dataslate to the old man and went upstairs without a word. Soon as he reached his room he switched on the radio, the static only lasted for a few moments. 

     ‘Aldus, it’s been awhile.’ 

     ‘Is that all you have to say!? I’m a blasted scapegoat! What’s in the Winged Angel’s main base!?’ Anger threaded his voice, he couldn’t contain it. But Kira responded calmly. 

     ‘I can’t tell you.’

     ‘Why!?’ 

     ‘Think of it as a test, remember what Yrian said. From this point on you can’t trust anyone.’ He was still angry but the old man did state his survival will greatly depend on what he will do from now. He said not to stop, but the ecclesiarchy wants them dead. 

     ‘Frek sake…’ he said under his breath, he was about to speak into the radio but the static returned, Kira always leaves or an interruption takes place at the most troublesome times. Aldus wiped his mouth nervously, he had to think. He had to find a way out, yet the best advice he had was not to stop.

 

[Shinros]

Chapter 8

 

 

Aldus was sitting on the pavement again, waiting to see if Graham would arrive. He tried switching on the radio but he was met with static, He became frustrated, angry even. He didn’t get much time to dwell on the emotion as Graham arrived, when he exited the car. Aldus could see that he appeared to be in a good mood. He slotted the radio back into his vest. ‘So what’s the job today?’ Asked Aldus. 

     ‘No job, the boss wants everyone to relax today. What’s also interesting is that he is letting people leave the gang if they want.’ There was a way out, but if Vidar was letting people leave what was the point of the test? Or perhaps the information he gained changed things? Yet, there are no guarantees. He had a feeling the ecclesiarchy will hunt down anyone connected to whatever is in the Winged Angels base. 

     ‘I’m not going to leave.’ Aldus said firmly, his remark caused a smile to grace Graham’s lips, he did something surprising and sat down next to him. 

     ‘Thought you would leave, maybe I was wrong about you. Cornelia took the offer though.’ 

     ‘What? Why?’ 

     ‘Remember the dinner?’ 

     ‘It was just food.’ 

     ‘No, it wasn’t just food. Calling a group The Hunters is pretty on the nose don’t you think?’ Aldus didn’t react, his mind came to the answer rather quickly but strangely he didn’t care. All he was focused on was the base. 

     ‘What is Vidar preparing for?’ 

     ‘You don’t care about the meal I take it? Never took you as a person with a strong mind and gut. But on Vidar? Normally when he gives us a day off things normally get hairy’ The Grey Hound didn’t directly answer the question, Aldus frowned.  

     ‘Is it war?’ He decided to be plain. 

     ‘Maybe.’ 

     ‘You don’t trust me then?’ 

     ‘A little bit. You got a good head on your shoulders, you’re pretty lucky but I’ve only known you for a week or so. After all, Cornelia has just jumped ship.’

     ‘Aren’t you afraid to die Graham?’ The question made Graham sigh, his gaze became heavy, he then chuckled lightly. 

     ‘The Emperor owns our lives, but our blood belongs to someone else. War has been my meat and my wine. I lived to spill the blood of the Emperor’s foes. Then one day, when we were all left behind, I stopped for a few moments. Thinking why things turned out this way, why did the brass decide to strip me and my comrades of our battlefield, of our church? Our meaning? Do you understand me Aldus?’ 

     What Graham just said sounded absolutely insane, was everyone in the Astra Militarum the same way? Aldus considered his answer for a few moments before speaking. ‘I don’t know, I just want things to make sense. I wanted to gain some meaning in my life. Now? I don’t know what to think. In the last week, I’ve killed and injured people who don’t deserve it. Before all of this started I thought I was going to be some kind of vigilante hero, unravling a murder.’

     Graham shook his head, he tapped the back of his finger on the radio. ‘Is that how you cope?’ 

     ‘What?’ 

     ‘Seen you talking into it.’ Aldus glanced at the device, Graham was both right and wrong. 

     ‘Yeah, in a manner of speaking.’ 

     ‘Right. So let me ask you something, what do you think of the situation? If you don’t know what you are doing why are you still sticking with the Hounds?’

     ‘Because I can’t stop.’ 

     ‘Why can’t you? You haven’t crossed the line yet, at least in my eyes. You can walk away from all of this, find a new girl and settle down.’ Graham’s words provoked a flash in his mind, Aldus could hear the cranking gears, the stamping press and the whips. The grey world was still waiting for him. He doubted the overseer would even ask any questions about his absence. The sight of his old workplace frightened him, it was absolutely terrifying. That was when Graham nodded in understanding. ‘You’re enjoying this aren’t you?’ 

     ‘What!? No! I’m not! I… hate this, I hate… not being in control of my life.’

     ‘I get it.’ Aldus wondered if he actually does. Were they just empty words? ‘Things don’t make sense, everyone and everything is unravelling around you. But there are people who can help put things in perspective.’ Aldus was about to say who, but Kira said not to trust anyone. The situation was changing quickly. Graham even stated he didn’t fully trust him.

     ‘No, I’m alright. Maybe I just need a day off?’

     ‘Alright, fine.’ Graham got up, but something unexpected happened. His fist flew into Aldus’ face, he didn’t expect the blow. His head slammed onto the pavement, Graham continued punching him until the world turned into a black pit.

 

 

He awakened to a dimly lit room, Aldus’ face hurt. The position he was in was similar to the one when he met Vidar, he was sitting on a chair. His hands were bound. The only difference was the infernal static from the radio. ‘You’re trapped.’ said Kira. 

     ‘D-Dammit, w-what’s going on?’ 

     ‘An ending. An insignificant one.’ she replied. 

     ‘What the hell are you talking about!?’ The radio clicked off as the door opened  revealing a bald man with pale skin, he was wearing purple robes. His garments were replete with spiral trinkets and tiny vials containing black fluid which jingled together with each step. To Aldus' eyes the man appeared young but his presence held a sense of age that seemed beyond even Yrian. Graham was also with him, the bald man stood before him while Graham closed the door. 

     ‘Are you alright?’ the bald man asked, he pushed forward a gentle smile. The question floored Aldus, he was disgusted. 

     ‘What’s wrong with you people?’ he hissed. ‘You’re trying to act friendly after you assaulted and kidnapped me!?’ Graham twitched at his outburst, his hand began moving towards his pistol.

     ‘Control your anger Graham. Remember your lessons. Don’t let the red creature in.’ the bald man said calmly. The tension drained from Graham’s face, he apologised. 

     ‘Sorry father, my anger got the better of me.’  

     ‘Do not worry, the blind rarely understand what they do. I wish to open the eyes of this one before he dooms us all. Now let us start again.’ He placed his hand upon his chest. ‘Aldus, I’m Father Kythotan, a humble priest of the New Dawn sect.’ Aldus blinked in confusion, he shook his head.

     ‘You said that I am going to doom you all? How?’

     ‘That’s the crux of the issue at the moment. The New Order sect wants you dead, while I think we can take a softer approach.’

     ‘Sect? What?’ 

     ‘Our fraternity is divided into sects, we are all Disciples of Saint Alessia. My brothers and sisters are quite upset at what you did to our Elders.’ 

     ‘Graham was involved as well.’

     ‘He was doing holy work so he is exempt from punishment. What you do here will determine what happens to you. Please corporate.’

     Aldus was trapped again, he was about to be used again. But what choice did he have? ‘What do you want to know?’ 

   ‘Thank you Aldus, so tell me what do you know of the murders? Be truthful, I’ll know if you are lying.’ 

     ‘All right.’ He recalled the images, there were eight in total including the double of his ex-girlfriend. ‘They're eight murders, most likely they were killed by their own because they wished to get a noble involved in their work. Issue is some feel that a… evil or force might be involved in this situation.’

     ‘Do you know what that evil is Aldus?’

     ‘No, I don’t know what it is.’ Kythotan, bought his hands together. His smile turned sad. 

     ‘It’s you Aldus. I can see it. it’s not you directly but you are a carrier of the force. When it will act or activate I’m not sure hence why I bought you here. Vidar wants you dead, being ex-military he has fought against evil many times. His intuition is telling him things will get bad, and they will.’

     ‘Why should I believe anything you say? This is insane.’ 

     ‘Ignorance is a powerful tool to control the masses. You’re old life? Everything is deliberate, the bars, the pleasure houses and factorums. Each part is a facet to control the population. Joining a gang pulls back the curtain slightly, just a small crack with us? You see everything. The Imperium then provides lines, ones that someone shouldn’t cross and if they do? They are deemed a heretic and killed. You passed that line ages ago.’

     Aldus tried to digest what he was told, it was crazy. He has become caught up in something beyond his understanding. He wanted nothing to do with this, he had no desire to get involved anymore. ‘So what do you want me to do?’ 

     ‘Join us. If you do we can protect you from the Grey Hounds and whatever the Winged Angels are planning. S-’ Kythotan’s head suddenly popped, it exploded showing Aldus in a gout of blood. He screamed in panic as Kythotan’s body flopped onto the floor. Graham's eyes went wide, he cursed and drew his hand-stubber, he pointed it at him. 

     ‘What have you done witch!?’ He shout caused more guards to burst in the room and as soon as they saw the corpse they pointed their weapons at him.

     ‘I-I don’t know! I did-’ They fired their weapons, the bullets were curving away, when they emptied their magazines they stared at him in shock. But they didn’t have long to dwell on that emotion, each and every single person burst into flames. The fire was multi-hued, from blue, to pink to even orange. They all screamed as they died and as Aldus tried to move his hands he found he was free, he didn’t linger. 

     Aldus ran out to the corridor, he was met with more guards and the same horrific scene repeated. Everyone suddenly began dying around him as me made his way out of the base, strangely fear didn’t grip the eyes of those here and they were all bald like Kythotan. But he didn’t get long to dwell on the strange irregularities for in time he found the way out. He was then greeted by even more guards. Again, their bullets curved away and they burned, to ash. He was out on the street in the housing block area. 

     Eyes were cast upon him, screams erupted on the pavement. Men, women and children cried witch! Again and again. Aldus kept running, he didn’t know where to go but that was when the radio sparked to life. ‘Aldus, you need to go to the base.’ The voice of Kira made him turn around into an alleyway. That was when the tears fell. His life was gone, it was only a matter of time before the Adeptus Arbites were going to come for him. 

     ‘Go to the base.’ Kira repeated. 

     ‘Shut up! Just…’ he slid down to his bottom, held his head but Kira kept talking. 

     ‘Think, after that scene you are now trapped. If you stop a fate worse than death will come. Go to the base. I’ll meet you there, I know a few people who can sneak me in.’ He didn’t care about the base or the murders anymore. What captured Aldus attention was a meeting with Kira. That was all he needed, she most likely had the answers he sought. He needed to understand why this was happening and why she put him through all of this.  

 

[Shinros]

Chapter 9

 

Aldus was walking towards the Winged Angels base, guards were present. They were watching for cult members, their “base” was far more ramshackled compared to the Grey Hounds. The building was almost falling apart, but the question was how did the Winged Angels get access to military grade armour? Aldus scanned their weapons, each were wielding lasguns. 

     He grimaced, he grabbed the radio and switched it on. ‘How am I meant to get past the guards?’ the radio sizzled with static for a few moments, Kira’s voice eventually came through. 

     ‘Approach, they’ll let you in.’ The radio clicked off, Aldus wanted to ask why they were expecting him but what would be the point? Soon they will be face to face so he did as she asked. He walked towards the gate, the Winged Angels pointed weapons at him. Aldus raised his hands. The leader of the guard detail walked towards him, he was wearing a feathered cape. 

     ‘Why are you approaching, what’s your business?’ Aldus decided to be plain, he was weary of all of this. 

     ‘Kira sent me here.’ The name caused murmurs among the Winged Angels, the leader leaned in towards him. 

     ‘If she sent you I’ll escort you to the meeting place. But I can only let you in as a prisoner. You look like a Grey Hound after all.’ he leaned back and turned to the others. ‘I’m taking him in, watch the front.’ His order was met with nods. The leader of the squad then bound Aldus’ hands and took him into the base. He was met with stares but no complaints, even within the very hallways. He swiftly taken to a set of stairs, he looked back to his “escort”. 

     ‘Where exactly are we going?’ asked Aldus. 

     ‘Downstairs.’ the Winged Angel replied. ‘Don’t worry Kira is on her way.’ Aldus said nothing further, he let the Angel guide him down the steps. They kept going down for what seemed like an age. Until they arrived in a one-way corridor, there was a door at the end of the hallway. His escort unbound his hands, he pointed towards the door. ‘Wait in there. She will be here soon.’ 

     Aldus rubbed his wrists, the bindings were right. The Winged Angel then gave him a curt nod and saluted at him. ‘For a better tomorrow.’  

     He then went back up stairs. Aldus now had a feeling that this was it, the end of a very strange road. He walked onward and entered the room. It was well lit, but there was an odd curiosity in the room. In front of Aldus were nine mirrors, they were set in a line. He furrowed his brow, he wondered what strange purpose they might hold. As he took a step towards them he saw the door opening in the mirror, someone entered. It was the person he expected to see. 

     He quickly turned around, but there was no one there. The door was closed. Aldus was confused, was his mind playing tricks upon him? ‘Tricks? Not at all.’ The voice made him turn around towards the mirrors. Within the mirror Kira was standing next to him, but she wasn’t actually there beside him. Aldus shook his head in disbelief.

     ‘What the hell is this?’ 

     ‘Clarity.’ Kira said calmly. The reflection on one of the mirrors shifted, displaying the Grey Hound base, Vidar walked out with several others. They were talking while smoking, all that disappeared as a pillar of blue light crashed down upon the building from the skies. That image was held as Kira continued speaking. ‘You’ve done so well. There was a bump in the road but you got here in the end.’ Aldus' mouth hung slightly seeing what was happening before him, what could he say or do? Was it even real? ‘It’s very real.’ Kira answered. 

     ‘What are you?’ The question made “Kira” smile, she started clicking her fingers one at a time. 

     ‘Curiosity or thought. The thing that makes people peek behind the curtain.’ Another mirror changed, it was his work place. A blue pillar of light fell down upon it, annihilating it completely. ‘Change and destruction…’ “Kira” continued. Her eyes turned a brilliant blue. ‘I’m you.’ she said calmly. 

     At the end of the description all of the mirrors shifted, displaying various areas of the city from the Cathedrums, Factorums and noble houses. All was destroyed by the pillars. From the ruins four-armed monsters surged out from the rubble attacking those who were distoranted by the destruction. The only mirror lift was the one that held him and Kira. Aldus shook his head. ‘W-What i-is happening?’ 

     “Kira” chuckled at his question. ‘There it is, more questions, more thought. Every act, every waking moment you make yourself the right vessel.’

     ‘V-Vessel?’ Her grin turned wide at the new question.

     ‘Yes vessel do you want to know how this all came to be?’ 

     ‘I-’

     ‘Of course you do, I’m you after all.’ “Kira” stopped clicking her fingers, she pulled out a hand-stubber, the mirror made it look as if she was pointing it at him. ‘Each of the eight were my disciples and below them they had subordinates. Kira, infiltrated this group hoping to learn something about the strange ills that gripped this world. But she came under my sway soon enough. All of them dreamed of a brighter and better tomorrow, unfortunately as Kira played her part in the ritual she got cold feet seeing the truth of what awaited her. She tried to warn you. To fuel the ritual the chosen vessel must investigate the murders.’ The explanation caused certain pieces of the puzzle to click into the place, the smile on “Kira’s” face grew.

     ‘D-Did she actually love me? I guess she didn’t after…’

     ‘Do you know why she had second thoughts? Soon as she learned you were to be the vessel, I revealed that truth to her as she died. Mortal anger makes for a great fuel when it comes to mysteries. But in the case of her love? You were not part of her work, her master allowed the relationship for a time until she had to join the Winged Angels.’ 

     ‘Who is her-’

     ‘Enough questions, you’ve done enough. Are you ready to ascend? To become the anchor that will bring the new tomorrow?’ The question from “Kira' ' caused tears to fall from his eyes, his world was turning grey again. Everything he did was pointless, all of his thoughts and desires served whatever evil that wished to be born. He watched the creature within the mirror beginning to press the trigger on the gun. His world crawled almost to a stand-still, Aldus closed his eyes. Waiting for what was about to come, but his eyes flicked open as someone crashed through the door behind him. 

     Aldus quickly turned around to see Yrian in golden power armour, he had a bolter in his hands, standing with him was a priest with nut-brown skin. “Kira” wailed in anger, her voice was distorted, no human throat could produce such a sound. Aldus was still confused. The old man gave his signature frown. ‘Sorry.’ he said flatly. 

     Yrian fired several times, the shells detonated on impact blowing a hole in his chest, both of his arms were also destroyed. Aldus collapsed, his own lifeblood was pooling on the ground all the while “Kira” was still screaming in anger. Yrian walked forward and shot each mirror, bringing silence to the room. Aldus continued to gasp for his life, he tried to speak, to ask why did this happen. The old man didn’t even look at him as darkness again claimed him.

 

[Shinros]

Epilogue

 

 

Aldus gasped again, how many times was consciousness lost to him and he awoken somewhere else? This time he was lying on a bed, it was set in front of a viewing window in space. He took the time to look down at himself, fresh skin has been grafted to his chest and his missing arms were now metallic. When he realised this he tried to rise but a familiar voice stopped him. ‘Wait, lie down for a moment.’ Yrian was sitting at his side, he was reading a book the same one he always read in the store. 

     ‘Where am I?’ Aldus’ throat burned with each word spoken. 

     ‘On the commandeered ship called the Emperor’s Fist.’ The old man replied. ‘Questions are dangerous things aren’t they?’ 

     ‘What?’ Yrian chuckled, he closed the book and regarded Aldus. His gaze this time was heavy, he felt small in front of it despite the one before him being an old man.

     ‘The evil on Tyriod was using the investigation to fuel a ritual. Certain types of…. Evil become more empowered in the face of certain emotions and thoughts. In the end Aldus you gave me the perfect excuse.’ 

     ‘I-I don’t understand?’ Yrian got up from his seat, he walked towards the window. That was when he pulled out a remote from his jacket and pressed the button. The bed Aldus was lying on moved forward, now he could see the planet. His home. It was a red orb, brimming with fire and cracked rocks which drifted through space. Colossal ships surrounded it in its entirety. ‘Did I do this?’ 

     ‘No I did, but as I said you gave me the perfect excuse. You remember the Disciples of Saint Alessia?’ 

     ‘Yeah, the weird cult.’ 

     ‘Interesting aren’t they?’ 

     ‘I’ve barely interacted with them Yrian.’ 

     ‘You will face them again soon, but the point is they’re heretics. They were entrenched not only in the housing blocks but across the whole city. The Winged Angels knew something was wrong, but could do nothing about it so they turned to a benefactor. Eventually Marius notified me of the murders, I saw the signs and took the appropriate actions. I stopped the ritual at the right point to prevent a full scale invasion by this evil and triggered the uprising from heretics. Since your world did not produce anything important we decided the exterminatus protocol was the correct course of action. Many in my work still underestimate the breed of heretic that took hold of the world.’

     ‘So… it’s my fault.’ 

     ‘Well yes, but you were ignorant and you should count yourself lucky. I was going to leave you for dead but I changed my mind. It was difficult keeping you alive with my gifts. Anyway, as I said you helped out with my paperwork and protected the Imperium. Good job!’ The old man smiled, but a whole world was killed. All of its people are gone, they’re just space dust now. 

     ‘Are you going to kill me Yrian?’ 

     ‘No, I wouldn’t have given you new arms otherwise. You’re going to replace Kira after all. She kept talking about you all the time, I now understand why she likes you at least little.’ He then held up the book he was reading. ‘Do you know what this is?’

     ‘That’s the book you’re always reading.’ 

     ‘Indeed, it’s… a journal. One that belongs to Ansel Hasley.’ Yrian walked over, he handed to the book to Aldus. His new metal limbs felt strange, he actually had better dexterity compared to his old limbs. He frowned and opened the first page, the title was “Our End.” Aldus furrowed his brow. ‘Make you sure you read that several times. The evil in that book has even stopped a special team I sent to investigate. In time we will go to the world in the book..’ 

     The old man walked away, leaving him with the book and the dead world. Aldus closed the journal, he laid back on the bed that was when everything hit him. He was a pawn in a game he didn’t understand, he wept uncontrollably. It was all he could do.    

Edited July 9, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Right, I hope people enjoyed the story. My third person writing is pretty rusty, I might need to practice more. 

Edited July 12, 2020 by Shinros

[Graceless]

Hi Shiros

 

Sorry for the slow response, kept on meaning to catch up with your story but there was so much I wanted a clear run at it. Just gone from Chapter 4 to the end this afternoon.

 

Good job, I enjoyed it and was genuinely interested in where the story was going. In my mind I could see this as being a novella/short story including in the omnibus version of your books! A bit of a background story as to how Aldus came to be working with Yrian.

[Shinros]

Hi Shiros

 

Sorry for the slow response, kept on meaning to catch up with your story but there was so much I wanted a clear run at it. Just gone from Chapter 4 to the end this afternoon.

 

Good job, I enjoyed it and was genuinely interested in where the story was going. In my mind I could see this as being a novella/short story including in the omnibus version of your books! A bit of a background story as to how Aldus came to be working with Yrian.

Thanks! It was what I was aiming for. I'm working on another short story which deals with deathwatch. I think it would be better if I finish the whole story first then upload it. I think when I'm tired from work it causes the overall quality to fall. Been also reading a few books in the mean time and have started to consult a thesaurus to aid my writing. Anyway, I'm glad you enjoyed it!