I begin to reconsider the wisdom of relying on Network Zero for information.
This evening has been eventful, as many of the rest. Guillermo has joined our dysfunctional little family, to keep our numbers consistent after Agnes left us. He seems fairly competent, but I will wait and see how it goes later on.
We decided on investigating a shadowy vision near a wearhouse. Arriving at the wearhouse, we all walked inside - and promptly walked into Bob Barker's version of hell.
To summarize quickly, it was a version of a game show, in which many of us were forced to relive turning points in our lives - and all for the benefit of a Host, as well as Birkin, who was keeping Ilsa captive. Max had to fight some mages who, from what I gathered, massacred a group of people he knew. Chronos had to prevent Chernobyl's destruction, while Nadya had to stop being beaten by someone (which culminated in an apartment building catching on fire). Guillermo...had to consider how to handle all the women he'd loved and left over the years.
I...well, I had to relive my first encounter with the supernatural, which I had figured. When my scenario presented itself, Viviana was already feeding on Alex. I had a split second to consider how to resolve my conflicts with my past. Would I try to shoot Viviana? Would I push her off Alex and give him a chance to run?
I drew my revolver...and shot Alex in the head.
In doing so, I ended Alex's fear and pain, provided Viviana sustenance, and cemented my acceptance of how I am today. I serenely holstered my revolver and looked up at Birkin.
"I have no issues with where I am in my life."
I had the satisfaction of seeing William Birkin briefly taken aback. I smirked and then looked to the Host, asking him if I might take my seat again. He acquiesced.
In between each scenario, the entire space darkened. During one of these breaks, we heard Marcus enter. He granted us Ilsa's sword and told us that when things started to break down, we needed to be able to move.
Finally, we saw Rose's scenario. An apparently locked away memory, showing her father's connection to the supernatural. Before we were able to learn more, Marcus enacted his plan.
He broke much of the illusion and kept Birkin busy while we freed Ilsa and took down the Host. Oliver shot spectacularly, bringing the bastard of an angel down. Max forcibly carried Ilsa out as we exited through a portal to get outside. Another rip in the ground with the bodies of the dead (and a catatonic Nadya) later, we were on our way home. Max, Guillermo, and I returned Ilsa to the Purcell manor.
Additionally, my blood has...changed. It is hard to describe, but I feel...different. More confident, more strategizing. I suppose I will see what unfolds in the future.
