The empty whiskey bottle lands directly inside the metal trash bin. A few feet away, under the protection of a store canopy, Markus is leaning against a wooden post. Drizzling rain is falling, obscuring the vision all around him. Flashes of lightning illuminate the night sky, and in the distance, the roar of thunder can be heard.
The streets of Montillo are nearly devoid of life. Sometimes, a person dashes from one building to another through the rain. Metal lamppost dotted along the streets provide islands of light in the darkness. Nearby stores still show some activity through the windows. Customers shopping, friends watching the weather, or patrons enjoying a meal.
Markus’ fingers feel numb inside the shooting gloves, and his eyes are glazed. The air is chilly, but his body feels warm. Whatever hesitations felt before leaving the estate are now gone. There’s no going back, not until the task is done.
Directly across the street is a single story saloon. Monica, and the Crimson leader, plus many other members are expected to be inside. Even from his position, Markus can hear their cheers and laughter. His fingers keep fiddling with the combat vest underneath the colorful poncho. Another hand keeps tapping on his concealed AMD-65 assault rifle.
From the darkness, an image flies toward Markus. It’s Aurora coming back from scouting the saloon. She quickly takes cover under the store canopy, then starts shaking off the rain. Slowly, she hovers closer to Markus.
“I’ve got good news and bad news.” Aurora says to Markus. She continues drying herself with a tiny cloth as she talks. “The man in the black suit is inside, sitting at the bar with some associates. Their backs are to the entrance. I also saw plenty of Crimsons at booths and tables. However… I didn’t see Monica. She’s not inside anymore.”
Markus is quiet. He thinks for a moment before responding. “It doesn’t change anything. Maybe killing their leader is enough to break their operation. When I go inside… just watch my back.”
Aurora stares suspiciously at Markus. She doesn’t see the whiskey bottle anymore, but smells a hint of liqueur in the air. He’s looking at the saloon, with eyes shining in little light. She says to him “Are you really alright?”
“What do you mean?” Markus asks back. He turns to face Aurora, but is greeted with a serious stare from the fae. He loses his nerves at the sight. “Not really… I’m about to do something I thought I would never do. I’m scared… about how I’m going to face myself tomorrow, or when I see my family and friends eventually.”
Aurora sighs, and puts on a gentle smile. She says “It’s okay. Think about it this way. If nothing is done, there is no tomorrow for you. Or everyone at the estate. You protected yourself and us earlier today, so you can do it again.”
Revisions in progress.