Origins

By Gwyndolyn Russell

With the battle on Skao over, the Godeater sets off once again. In the search for the next artifact, Spectre discovers the history of the alpha hunters is not quite what it seems. Now she wants to find the truth, putting the search for the artifact on hold while she leads the Black Wolves into battles against old and new enemies.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Gwyndolyn Russell
• Release date: Sep 30, 2023
• ISBN: 9781088095416

Book preview

The Thin Hex Line

Origins

Gwyndolyn Russell

INTRO

The Captain's Quarters may have been one of the better rooms of the entire Godeater. Out of all the apartments, it certainly was. A spacious two bedroom with an open floor kitchen, dining room, and living room. A warm gray tile flooring with interior lighting, soft gray walls with white inlays, and bold accents of red and black upon decor such as curtains, dressers, furniture, and paintings. Various metal sticks stuck out here and there along with small bits of bedding.

The savarl, Rum, perched on a stick in the far corner of the living room.

The turkey-sized creature chattered its teeth and puffed out the bright plumage on its chest.

Spectre took a seat in the middle of the 'U'-shaped sectional in the middle of the room. Phantom headed into the kitchen to fix a drink for both of them.

Spectre breathed in deeply and rubbed her mouth. So…this is… her thoughts still had not straightened out.

She had only barely recovered from the near possession that was Mako back on Skao. Her body was still tender to the touch and most noises made her jump if not cause her skin to crawl. Even now she was fidgeting around and scratching at her ear when the background static of white noise got too loud.

Without Mako there in her brain, all of the neurons were firing, many of which were suppressed by the medical AI to improve her daily life.

It felt like she was at the bottom of the ocean trapped beneath the mighty pressure of gravity. The water felt like static raining down on her skin.

What are you trying to say? Phantom called from the kitchen.

He made his way around the counter with two glasses of iced water.

The sound of his steps made Spectre look up. Her blue and green eyes fell on his dark frame making his way towards her.

Her heart skipped a beat. He may have looked dark and brooding, but he was the light in her life. His presence pushed the static away. Lifted the weight of the ocean from her body.

He sat down next to her, nearly hip to hip. The cold of the air shifted to warm radiating against her skin.

He handed her the glass of water and leaned against the back of the couch.

He twisted around to face her.

Spectre stared at him for a solid minute before she completed her thought.

This is, uh, happening? She looked down at the water rippling in the glass. She had no clue she was shaking so bad.

You saw what I saw. Phantom set his glass down.

He took the glass from Spectre and put it on the table, too. When he looked back, Spectre was looking down at herself. Her nails caressed the skin of her exposed belly. The tattoos squirmed to life with curious beasts watching her fingers.

Could it be wrong? She asked.

How? Dr. Reynolds has many years behind her. Phantom squeezed her hand.

But I'm sterile…! She took a sharp breath.

Hey, relax. Phantom adjusted himself. He touched her cheek and made her lift her chin. Look at me.

Spectre sank into those glowing blue eyes.

We don't need to worry about how, Lucy.

Oh, the natural rasp of his voice tickled her.

We finally get to do the one thing we've always wanted. He smiled down at her. We finally have everything.

As reality set in for her, Spectre leaned back against the couch. Her hands remained on her exposed belly.

They'll come for him…. She whispered.

The first alpha to be born… Surely, it was a prize possession. If Apex or the Venators found out, nothing would stop them from stealing the baby for their own.

We'll hide it as long as we can. Phantom kissed the side of her head.

It wasn't until morning the next day that Spectre had settled on everything.

There was work to be done. Unable to hide the size of her stomach, Spectre elected to remain isolated in her quarters. Phantom, Stalker, and Dr.

Reynolds were the only visitors allowed.

Over the course of the next few weeks, Phantom handled a minor remodeling of the second bedroom. A nursery built in its place and with Stalker's help, easily converted back to normal.

Spectre meanwhile handled the usual paperwork and decision making as Queen of the Wolves. An endless task these days.

I talked to Stalker today, Spectre said, unraveling the halter top from her chest. About the mission board.

Did you implement the rank system? Phantom asked, stepping into the bedroom.

Yeah and pre-ranked everyone based on their latest performances. Naked now, she stepped into the bathroom to get the hot water running. Think it'll introduce a new dynamic to competition.

There'll be a lot of punching up. Phantom sat down on the edge of the bed and pulled his shirt off.

That's what I'm hoping for. Plus with open seats for lieutenants…

I told you, I don't want any lieutenants. Phantom grumbled.

Spectre slipped into the shower.

What was that? She called over the running water. I can't hear you over the shower!

Phantom pinched the bridge of his nose. With a breath, he laid down on his side and scrolled through the tablet at some of the latest mission reports.

The usual engagement against Venators. Typical escort and hit man clients.

Overall, the numbers were good and they were steadily climbing by the day.

They had even received requests from colonies to have alphas stationed there. Spectre hadn't decided if that would be a plausible line of action yet however. The requests would just sit there for months.

Something clattered in the tub. Phantom perked up, broken from his thoughts. He listened in closer. Perhaps she just dropped a bottle. He could just hear her curse over the splattering water. Something tickled the back of his neck.

E-Erik…! Spectre called.

Phantom jumped up off the bed and darted across the room. He nearly fell against the sink on his way into the bathroom.

What's wrong? He clung to the wall as he pulled the curtain back.

Spectre was bent over, a hand on the wall, the other between her legs. The steaming hot water continued pouring over her head and bare frame, quickly washing away the black and red blood down her thighs.

L-Luc? He stared at her wide eyed, unsure what he needed to do.

It feels really tight. She took a breath. G-get Stalker! She waved her hand. The doctor, too!

Phantom shot up straight and turned to get one of the towels hanging against the wall. He tapped behind his ear. Stalker! He ripped the towel off the hook.

What's going on? Stalker crackled over the radio.

Get Reynolds. It was all he could think to say.

He tossed the towel onto the edge of the tub and turned the water off.

Phantom grabbed Spectre's hand. He wanted to get her out of the tub, but her wobbly legs weren't budging. Instead, he helped her sit down and used the towel to cushion her head against the wall.

They're on the way. Phantom assured her. He turned to get another towel.

Erik! Spectre gasped.

He collapsed against the edge of the tub. I'm right here. It's okay.

The door!

He left the towel there on the tub and rushed out of the bathroom. Across the apartment and to the front door. He unlocked it.

The door slid open.

Where is she? Stalker asked, panting.

Bathroom. Phantom stepped to the side.

Dr. Reynolds rushed in ahead; she was barefoot, running across the cold steel floor.

Stalker stumbled in and grabbed his knees. The door shut behind him.

Oh, fuck. He gasped. I need to work on my cardio. Jav was right, all this sitting around has me fucked.

Phantom bit back a laugh.

Reynolds poked out of the bathroom. We can't move her.

What do you mean? Stalker straightened himself.

Get me more towels and hot water. She demanded and dipped back into the bathroom.

Both men scurried off. Phantom hurried for more towels, gathering every single one from the entire apartment. Stalker went to the kitchen to heat up water in a large bowl.

Reynolds snatched the towels from Phantom as soon as he returned with them. Then she took the bowl from Stalker.

Neither were allowed in the bathroom. They sat on the edge of the bed together and waited patiently.

Can't believe this is really happening. Stalker sighed. He smiled and scratched his cheek.

You're telling me. Phantom rubbed his hands together.

It took several more minutes before they heard the surprisingly sweet sound of a crying baby.

Reynolds cooed at the infant.

Moments later, she stepped into the bedroom, the baby wrapped in one of the towels. He still cried, but he was calmer now.

Phantom jumped up to his feet to meet her at the door. She slowly handed the infant off.

R-Reynolds! Spectre called.

Reynolds' eyes widened. Phantom held the child to his chest and she hurried back into the bathroom.

Oh my god! Reynolds shouted.

Phantom and Stalker shared eye contact as he gently rocked the crying infant against his chest.

Then more crying. Louder. Inside the bathroom.

They looked up, confused, and watched as Reynolds stepped out with a second infant wrapped in a towel.

I’m not sure how… Her brow narrowed as she eyed the infant in her arms. None of the scans picked up this little fella’. She smiled sweetly and helped Phantom cradle the second baby in his arms. Twins!

Phantom held his breath and gazed down to both little bundles in his arms.

Tiny and frail, they had stopped crying shortly after being in his embrace.

Now they gazed up at him, each with a single blue eye and a green eye. Just like their mother.

It was like holding two tiny little planets. Beautiful little things.

Did you hear me, Phantom? Reynolds asked.

Phantom looked up. I’m sorry?

I need you to bring them and Spectre to the med bay. I’ll go ahead and clear a room. Reynolds smiled.

Right. Phantom nodded.

She hurried out of the room. Stalker stood up and headed into the bathroom.

He grabbed one of the spare towels off the sink.

With all of their vitals checked and no abnormalities detected, everyone was permitted to go home. A quick walk back split Spectre and Phantom from Stalker and left them alone in their own room with the sleeping infants.

It wasn’t for a couple more weeks that they would make their first appearance since returning to the Godeater. Late into the evening, they ventured into the Lounge, which to their surprise, had been spruced up. The usual haze was gone. Their entry prompted a sudden silence that left the low volumed television the only noise in the room.

Spectre and Phantom stood side by side, each with a baby wrapped up in satin blankets.

I can’t be the only one, Jackal called from one of the barstools, when I say, I want to see the baby! He paused in thought. Babies, apparently?

Yeah, is that two? Tempest stood up from the table.

Ho’, shit, there’s gonna be two of them runnin’ ‘round now? Feral hopped up from his seat to join them at the door.

Uh, y-yeah, Spectre nervously smiled.

Mozam jumped up from the couch. He made his way around and stopped right in front of Spectre. He scratched his chin. Toyed with the blunt hanging on his lip. He analyzed the infant boy as it gazed up at him curiously.

Name? He grumbled sleepily.

Micah. Spectre smiled.

Mozam shoved his hands between Spectre and the baby and scooped Micah into his arms and against his chest. Before she could object, he was away and back on the couch with his feet kicked up on the coffee table.

Hey, that ain't fair! Feral whined.

Tempest jumped up next and snatched the other baby from Phantom. He didn't walk very far before grabbing the infant by either side and raising him up above his head in the bundle of blankets.

Looks pretty human to me. Tempest said.

Feral dipped in next to him to get a good look as well. The baby cooed and grasped at the air in front of his face.

He's got Spec's eyes! Tremor snatched the infant from Tempest. He was just large enough that one hand comfortably held the baby.

What's this one's name? Tempest asked.

Niklas. Phantom answered. He seemed relieved at how excited everyone was to see them.

Mozam had nearly instantly fallen asleep with infant Micah laying upon his chest, nibbling on a finger.

Jackal took the opportunity to snatch the baby up for himself. He cradled Micah against his chest and made his way over to Spectre as Reaper joined them.

What do you mean by that though? Spectre asked.

I expected a tail, Jackal said. Or horns.

Spectre almost laughed.

I was thinking something more like the eos. Tempest said.

Feral took Niklas from Tremor finally. The baby stared up at the skeletal dog face and waved a tiny fist up and down.

Luckily none of it seems to have surfaced. Phantom said. Doc said it may appear in puberty though.

Given Micah from Jackal, Reaper hugged the infant to himself. It was the cutest little bundle of coos and oohs he had ever seen. Those ocean deep eyes gazed up at him, trying to figure out what was going on around him.

Such a blessing. Reaper brushed his finger across the baby's cheek. A beautiful little gift.

Hey, Eu, Feral stood next to Eulogy who was sitting kicked back at the end of the table. He hadn't made any motion to get up or say a word since Spectre and Phantom arrived.

Wanna say 'hello' to your new brother?

Eulogy opened an eye and gazed up at Feral holding the infant up for him to see.

It's 'nephew', dipshit. Eulogy grumbled.

His name is Niklas. Feral teased.

With a huff, Eulogy looked away as he took the infant and cradled him in his arm.

Now the problem is introducing them to the Wolves. Spectre sighed and rubbed her mouth.

Everyone has been worried sick about you. Warbear said. They'll be happy to know this is why you've been MIA.

I take it nothing's fallen apart? Spectre smiled.

Naw, man! Feral laughed. Phantom took over!

Really? She looked up at Phantom.

The Alpha Killer chuckled and rubbed the back of his neck.

"Not really. Made sure everyone had what they needed to keep operating.

Revenant handled everything else."

Good. What about the next artifact? Or a sign of Surtr? Spectre looked at Stalker who was now holding Micah.

Nothing. No leads. Without Mako, translating Sumerian is painful.

Why don't we bring him back online?

You're joking, right? Tempest raised a brow. He nearly killed all of us to protect you.

Spectre rubbed her mouth.

We can't let him go freely as he pleases. Tremor agreed. Mako could do anything before anyone realizes it.

ONE

The human mind was a mysterious, unnerving thing. It had been well over a month, nearly two months since they left Skao and Reaper had not thought about it at all. He was not even considered a leader figure among the Black Wolves and he was hardly there for his own Syndicate team thanks to the sheer chaos that was the war between the Venators and Black Wolves with the addition of eos to top it all off. Evacuations had only just begun when Skao started to collapse on itself. There was no thinking. Only survival.

Reaper had done everything in his power to save as many people as he could. He wasn’t the last to leave, however. He remembered Feral practically throwing him onto a shuttle as it took off. He feared he would never see any of the old alphas again. He didn’t know the details from then on.

All he knew was the aftermath and how many came back on stretchers. The Black Wolves were determined to leave no one behind, not even a body.

Unfortunately, Reaper heard the awful news: The Venators had escaped with prisoners.

So did they at least. Reaper didn’t know how many, though he had seen a few Venators escorted through the ship once.

Reaper was more than grateful to Spectre and the Godeater for taking him and his men in especially after the heartbreaking loss of the Syndicate and its crew members. His heart still ached at their loss. Reaper had not made a status report yet to the Federation Admiral as he should have. He had been focused on helping out everywhere he could.

The aftermath was a bloody mess. Severe injuries across the board, half of their vehicles down for the count, some of which abandoned in the planet’s collapse. They should have found a neutral station to dock at. Repair the ship and tend to everyone’s needs. Yet they were on the move. Nowhere in particular, just away from the Venators and eos. Away from clear danger.

They were off in no man’s space. A location not even charted on the maps.

By now, everything had gone back to what Reaper could declare was probably normal. Plenty of work to do, no one screaming, no bodies laid around. Everyone he thought was dead was back on their feet and working within the month. If the rumors were true and all alpha hunters were machines, then Apex and the Order had some secret advances Reaper could only dream of.

Things changed though once Spectre and Phantom made their big reveal.

No one had known completely what happened. Last most of them saw of Spectre, she was in that hellhound armored form like many of their brothers. Then she and Phantom were out on the main landing of the hangar, both holding up the twin infant boys for all of the alpha hunters to see.

Reaper didn’t know what to expect from them. They all cheered. Roared and howled. Perhaps it was just because of Spectre and Phantom. Perhaps there was a newfound excitement among the younger alpha hunters.

They were human after all. Who didn’t want to come home to a family that loved them? Especially after seeing the little bundles of joy. Now they were another giant leap forward and far from their chains and shackles.

There was happiness on the ship again. Reaper truly had no clue how glum it had been. With new breathing through the halls, everyone was back to normal and working away to keep the ship running. Alphas still came and went out of the hangars on their own personal ships to handle far away missions. It seemed just about every day a ship left and a ship arrived.

Reaper helped organize a new shipment in the hangar. While they were being unloaded, they had gotten mixed up and many crates marked for the armory had been stacked in with medical supplies and food supplies.

Reaper worked with a handful of alphas to properly separate everything.

Just when he thought they were done, he spied an ammunitions crate sitting between crates of saline and antibiotics.

With a sigh, he picked up one crate to set aside and grabbed the munitions.

The other crates were already gone. He would have to deliver it himself. At last he was feeling ready for a break after all of that work. Maybe he could find Jackal on the way and get lunch.

Reaper set off from the middle of the hangar and up a quarter mile to the airlock. Then through the winding halls until he found the armory. A tap on the pad by his elbow opened the door.

The door shut behind him.

Silence.

Not even the sound of a rustling piece of paper. A few crates were scattered around, many of which matched what he carried. He headed over to the counter.

Hello? He called.

He couldn’t even hear the air rushing through the vents.

Hello? He repeated and set the crate down on the counter.

The door swooshed open, making him turn.

In walked a man of about average height. Black from the head down in tight, form fitting clothes, a plate carrier and a completely smooth, solid chrome finished mask that covered the front half of his head. Reaper had come to know them as the Faceless Ones. A squad of five alpha hunters. All of them were mute and known as untouchables among the younger alphas.

No one messed with them. No one looked them in the eye. Much like he saw done for the old alphas and Revenant, crowds naturally dispersed like schools of fish for passing sharks.

This was the first time Reaper had seen a Faceless One alone. They were always in pairs at least, if not all five of them together. He approached the counter and slapped the little bell at the side of the counter. It rang out a few times and echoed in the quiet.

Reaper smiled at the Faceless One. I don’t think anyone is here right now.

The Faceless One’s shoulders dropped. He rubbed the back of his neck and pointed at Reaper.

Help you? Reaper perked up. I can try. What do you need?

The Faceless One held up two fingers, then pumped his fist up and down in the air.

Reaper headed around the counter and scratched his head. He looked over all of the neatly organized shelves, racks, and open crates. He thought about the gesture.

The Faceless One tapped on the counter. Reaper looked over at him. He repeated the gesture, slower this time as if that would clarify.

Reaper shrugged and frowned. I, honestly, can’t tell what that means. Is that, uh, He took his best guess, A grenade?

The Faceless One took in a silent, deep breath and touched a gloved knuckle to the center of the mirror for a mask.

The door opened again. The Faceless One didn’t even look up. He must have been thinking of a better way to explain it.

Captain Reaper? Usarak’s soft voice called from across the room. He didn’t get a step into the door before something at hip level to bump headfirst into him. What are you doing behind the counter?

The creature that walked into him was the long-legged karjerya. It had gotten so attached to Usarak that it followed him everywhere.

Reaper rubbed the back of his head. Oh, Usarak. I was dropping off this box, but he needs something. There’s no one here.

No one’s here? Usarak sighed. The laziest guys on this ship. He stepped up to the counter. Guess I’ll have to let Revenant know.

Usarak was the shortest of the three. Hardly taller than Spectre. He leaned against the edge of the counter on an elbow and gazed up at the Faceless One. The way he moved often reminded Reaper of Spectre. Like he had taken a page out of her book. Usarak was smooth and relaxed. He put no effort in projecting himself as anything more than himself. At least, Reaper thought so.

I take it you need your ammunition for that new job, right? Usarak asked.

The Faceless One nodded.

Usarak headed around the counter and towards the back. He rummaged around for a few minutes then returned with two short crates. He set them down on the counter.

The Faceless One eyed both crates and gave a thumbs up.

I really hope that’s enough ammo. Usarak’s smile was just barely visible behind the pointed teeth and tusks of his mask. I threw in an RMN as well for the trouble. Heard there’s some big ones out there and you might need that.

The Faceless one gave an enthusiastic nod and grabbed the crates. Usarak tapped on the mounted display and started making the notes in the system.

Serviced and happy, the Faceless One headed out the door with the two crates.

Wow. Reaper sighed. How did you know that’s what he needed?

They’re headed out on a job, Usarak shrugged and tapped the display again to turn it off. Other than that, I wouldn’t have known.

They really can’t speak at all? Reaper asked and followed him around the counter.

Naw. Usarak shook his head. That’s what we all assume. No one knows anything about them though.

Usarak perked up and stuffed his hands into the pockets of his jacket. Hey, I’m headed to the cantina for lunch. There’s space if you’re done here.

I was gonna head that way myself. Reaper smiled.

Usarak tapped the keypad to open the door. Reaper headed out first and Usarak followed right behind him.

How you like the Godeater? Usarak asked.

It runs pretty different from a Federation vessel.

I could only imagine! Usarak smiled.

Tauro, the hatchling karjerya, bounced around in a circle and bumped into Usarak’s leg.

Relax, boy, Usarak scratched the side of its face. We’re gonna get food.

How did you come about having an eos? Reaper asked.

Happened on Skao. Saved the little guy. His leg was all busted up. Usarak smiled. He won’t leave me alone now.

Reaper laughed. I know someone who was like that.

Really?

Yeah, Reaper stuffed his hands into his pockets. Not long after basic. He was part my unit, actually part of my squad. Still no clue why he wanted to be my friend, but he’s never left.

Oh, you’re talking about Jackal, huh? Usarak nodded.

Reaper opened his mouth to respond, but the devil himself nearly walked right into him when they rounded the corner. Jackal had jumped back with a gasp.

Fuck, you scared me. Jackal gripped his chest. Man, everyone walks around corners like no one else exists.

Where have you been? Reaper asked. Haven’t seen you in a while.

A little bit of everywhere. Jackal smiled. Been mostly helping Stalker with some remodeling. They’re building a school wing for the kids.

What do you know about remodeling? Reaper teased.

I think they just like having someone like me around to do all the heavy lifting! Jackal flexed his arms.

You’re from Mars, aren’t you? Usarak asked.

Uh, yeah. Jackal frowned.

Martians are a lot taller than I thought. Usarak touched the chin of his mask. I mean, I heard you were big, but you’re almost as big as Warbear.

Jackal blinked. He could picture Warbear in his head and to think he looked anything like that metal behemoth frightened him. He looked down at himself; he wasn’t some hulking mass, was he?

I don’t think there’s any dens on Mars either, is there?

No. Reaper frowned. None on Venus either.

I wonder why.

Hey, Jack, Reaper looked up at him. We were going for lunch. You still busy?

That’s a good idea honestly. Jackal grinned. I’m starving.

They moved on down the hall, squeezing by a stationary group of alphas talking in a doorway.

How has Spec been doing? Have y’all seen them lately? Jackal asked.

Reaper shrugged and frowned.

They’re all okay. Usarak nodded. She stays pretty busy between all of the paperwork, diplomacy and now the twins.

Take it she disappears like this often? Reaper asked.

All the time. You can usually find her in the Lounge late at night.

Speaking of disappearing, Jack, where’s Fenris? It’s pretty weird seeing you without her. Reaper looked up.

Uh, yeah, Jackal shrugged. I don’t actually know. Fen’s kind of being doin’ her own thing. She still stays a— A stack of boxes and folders floated down the hall and smashed right into Jackal.

Jackal stumbled back and the boxes and folders scattered across the floor along with the woman who had been carrying them.

Fuck! Jackal yelped. He knelt down over the smaller woman to make sure she was okay.

Monsoon propped herself up against the wall with a groan. She rubbed the side of her head and shut her eyes tight. Her dark skin flecked with blues and yellows from the soft white light shining in the halls. A one piece top tight enough to show off the ripples of a well toned body beneath tucked into tiny shorts that did nearly nothing to hide her with the way she sat on the ground. Caramel hair fell over her shoulders and covered the confused expression on her face.

Jackal couldn’t help, but stare at her. His dark eyes may have lingered a bit too long on those slender, cybernetic legs with tightly locked plates clean and shiny by a fresh coat of crimson paint.

The fuck are you gawking at? Monsoon snapped at him suddenly.

Jackal cleared his throat and put on a smile. "Let me help you up, miss.

That looked like it hurt." He held his hand out.

Monsoon glared at him for a few seconds. She seemed reluctant to take his hand. He helped her up and knelt back down to start scooping everything up. Monsoon snatched the papers out of his hands as soon as he picked them up and quickly organized and stacked them all.

Hey, Mon, Usarak knelt down to give both of them a hand.

Could you handle your boys better? Monsoon scolded him and shook a handful of papers. You demons are the fucking worst!

Hey, it was an accident. Usarak handed her the few he picked up.

She opened her mouth to say something more on it, but she saw how they looked. No masks. They didn’t even stand the way an alpha typically did.

Her face softened and she sighed.

I’m sorry. She said, lowering the stack of papers. I didn’t realize you didn’t have masks. She took the rest of the papers from Jackal.

I’m the one who ran into you. Jackal picked up the boxes and smiled.

It’s my fault really, miss.

Monsoon huffed.

Would you like some help carrying all this?

She perked up and glared up at Jackal. Why would I want help? She snatched the stack of boxes from his grasp.

She smiled at Usarak and hurried off on her own.

Damn. Jackal sighed and watched as she walked off.

That was Monsoon, Usarak stuffed his hands into his pockets. She’s one of Tempest’s lieutenants.

For an alpha, she’s pretty, uh… Jackal cleared his throat.

I wouldn’t get your hopes up, Usarak raised a hand. Mon don’t like anyone. Especially people who hang out with demons.

What do you mean by that anyway? I hear a lot of alphas refer to themselves as that or some other names. Reaper asked.

Teams. Usarak smiled. He started down the hall again. Tauro walked beside him for a few leagues then darted ahead just to loop back around and run past them in the opposite direction.

Right. Reaper nodded.

You’ve got the largest group, the Demons, Usarak said. It felt odd being on this side of the conversation