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SKULL
Some time ago...
SKULL, ALONG WITH FOUR others, portaled into the world called Eious. Turning toward one of them, he once again re-read his lieutenant’s name inscribed on his shoulder badge. Not that Skull would bother to memorize it himself. The man himself was not worth remembering; average build, average face, average everything, really.
Skull turned to face Thaddius, who paused in his steps at the sound of Skull’s voice. “I know this may prove difficult for you, Thaddius, but this is your chance to show the Dark Master how worthy you are—or aren’t.” Skull clicked his tongue. “If not, you know what he does to those who are no longer useful to him.” Rather than a threatening tone, Skull’s tone was empty and bored. “Go, now. Begin Corruption and prove that you are worthy to be in our ranks.”
Thaddius bobbed his head up-and-down.
As he walked away, Skull turned to the other three men. “Now, we must set up a training base. One where men will be broken and rebuilt as we desire, taught only the art of killing, where we can spread pain and Corruption.” At the thought, Skull felt... excited. Thrilled.
He grinned and gazed at the three men with him. “Let’s begin.”
***
AIDAN
I WAS WELL HIDDEN at the top of the walls around the outer part of the city. The marketplace was alive with people under me, going to and fro, like ants scurrying about. Multitudes of tiny stands scattered around the large area burst with a variety of goods. Some sold freshly killed meat, while others offered clothing, and still others potions and herbs. There were also small buildings that sold armor and weapons. Despite the fact that I was on a job, I found enjoyment in observing the lives that I had never had, although I would never outwardly admit that. Movement caught my eye. Bavyl, my target, scouted the marketplace for new buyers. The loathsome opium-dealer had double-crossed one of the king's advisors more than once and refused to pay up. Now, came the time of retribution.
I grabbed my bow off my back, unsheathed an arrow, and aimed it directly for Bavyl’s heart.
