I wake up. I stretch out and get up, still half asleep. Yesterday, the incident with Reaper, was... draining to say the least. Why does it have to be like this? I don't understand.

I don't really have time to think about it though, as I'm working the lunch rush at Hellfire today, so I can't be late. I get dressed in my usual attire, blue jeans and a grey t-shirt, and begin towards Hellfire, my footsteps echo through my house, two stories tall with decor reminiscent of the Renaissance. Always did like the aesthetic of that era. An era of peace and enlightenment compared to that which came before. It almost reminds me of the Era of Peace...

I decide not to think about it and continue put the door and down the street. I'd take my car, but Hellfire is only about block or two away. It's not worth it.

About halfway to Helllfire, I run into Justified. He's on the phone, arguing with someone.

"I'm telling you," he replies, "the war hasn't started yet. I will not steal from Reaper and piss him off more than he already is!"

Justified hangs up. "What's this about Reaper?" I ask.

Justified jumps out of his skin. "You startled me," he replies, "I'd tell you, but I am sworn to secrecy."

"Oh come on, if you're planning on stopping the Author Slayers, let me help. I don't want anyone to be erased."

"Fine. Tell me, M.S., does Reaper have the essence of Hell?"

The essence of Hell... Reaper said the Loyalists were after it, wanted to use it to return Andrew to this world. Should I tell him? Maybe if Andrew returns, Reaper will give up on his genocidal crusade? Would he just sink deeper into his mad obsession?

No, this is bigger than Reaper. I can't sit idly by and let Andrew stay erased. If I did, I'd be no better than the Author Slayers.

"Yes," I explain, "but you didn't hear it from me."

"Thanks," Justified replies, "call on The Loyalists anytime you need a favor."

Justified makes another call.

"We have confirmation," he explains, "but hold off until we have the device ready."

I decide not to go any deeper down the rabbit hole and leave without asking about the device. I continue towards Hellfire. I have just betrayed Reaper's trust, but it was for a greater good. I don't regret it. I may love Reaper, but I have a life of my own, priorties of my own. I don't regret my decision, and to any allies of Reaper's, I'm not sorry...