The last twenty-four hours had been a waking nightmare. Each time Grey awoke he found his captor waiting for him, pinching his limbs and squeezing until the bones shattered. Every time she finished she would place him in the center of his palm before casting him in a warm glowing aura and smuttering a single spell.  

“Mend.”

Grey felt his bones snap and twist back into place, the broken cartilage healing itself with all the pain imaginable. The pain was worse than the actual breaking of the bones themselves. It was usually at this point that he’d pass out, only to awaken later and relive the experience over again.  

Finally Grey awoke to find himself in an location completely alien to him. The giantess held him in hand as she navigated through a series of dimly lit corridors. The decaying brickwork of the walls and ceiling surrounded them as passage arched into low tunnels that were lit only by occasional torch that lined the dampened walls.

“Just in time.” his captor spoke. “I was starting to think you wouldn’t wake up this time,  but don’t worry blondie I’ll restrain myself for now. I need you to be awake for this next part.”

The low flickering flames of the torches did little as Grey’s eyes strained to adjust to his new surroundings. He wasn’t sure where the giant had taken him, but by the looks of it it was clear that these were passages very few used.

As they traveled in silence Grey’s eyes began to adjust to the dim light allowing him to see a door that stood at the end of the tunnel. It appeared to be made of wood, affixed with iron reinforcements that had reddened with rust due to years of oxidizing. As his captor approached the door she stopped, raising her hand and knocking in a sequence of knocks that appeared well rehearsed.

“Enter.” a low voice echoed from within.

The giant gripped the iron handle and opened the door to reveal a small yet surprisingly lavish room inside. The room was made of the same brickwork as the corridor leading to it but was adjourned with decorations that gave it a much more comforting aesthetic. A small chandelier hung from the ceiling, and bookshelves lined the walls as a aged and dusted red carpet decorated with intricate designs laid strewn across the floor. On the other side of the room was a large bed made with crimson sheets that was paired with a impressive canopy with equally matching curtains. Despite the romm’s exuberant appearance Grey couldn’t help but be assaulted by a strong mildewy musk the air so densely it made it hard to breath.

In the center of the room, stationed directly in front of the door was a small wooden desk, papers strewn across its surface, and a ink well that sat on the corner. An old giant in yellowing stained white robes sat at the table. He appeared absolutely ancient, with long drooping jowls and wrinkles across his face that made him akin to a prune. What little hair that remained on his balding scalp came down as long white single strands, and his skin had taken on a sickly gray color, making it a wonder on how long it had been since he had last seen daylight. The most notable thing about this giant besides for his aged appearance was the blindfold he wore. It was black with a gold design that resembled eyes which reflected the flicking glints of light off the nearby candles. This effect gave him an uncanny gaze that made it almost seem as if he could still see through them.

“You’ve returned Jade.” the man spoke in a raspy yet surprisingly stern voice.

The giantess bowed, tightening her grip around Grey as she did.

“I have Lord Rowin.”

“I assume that your mission was a success?”

“It was not M’Lord.” the old giant’s face grimaced, and he opened his mouth as if to speak. “But wait!” Jade quickly added, surpinging even Grey as it was the first time she seemed to express anything even close to concern. “I would not have returned empty handed. I found something that I thought important enough for you to know about.”

The old man paused for a long moment, filling the room with an uncomfortable silence before raising a weak hand and motioning for her to continue.

“During my stake out of the property believed to be Amelia’s last known location, neither her nor the owner of the home returned. Instead a human arrived. This human showed knowledge of Amelia and not only that was able to discern my motives for being there. Upon my initial capture of said human he displayed the uncanny ability to use magic. Illusions to be precise.”

“Illusions?”

“Yes M’Lord. Simple illusions but most definitely magic in origin. I would like to add that he does not fit any of the physical records of a member of The Trinity, nor does his magic match the descriptions of those claimed to be wielded by them. Upon capture he appeared ignorant of these power, though I have yet to determine whether or not this was a ploy in an attempt to get me to lower my guard.”

“It wasn’t.” Grey said out loud.

He felt the giant’s hand grip around him, made all the more painful by the soreness in his limbs.

“Watch your tongue you filthy wretch!” Jade threatened. “One more word out of line and i’ll-”

“Bring him to me.” the old man said suddenly, silencing her at once.

“Of… of course Lord Rowin.”

Jade approached the desk quickly, gently settling Grey on its surface before retreating a few steps back. Grey couldn’t believe how sheepishly she obeyed him. This was the same giant Grey had witnessed slaughter he own kind with no hesitation and tortured him for hours just for her own amusement. As far as he could tell she was a league all her own, yet somehow this old man controlled her, terrified her even. There was something more to this old man then just a decrepit appearance, and while he was unsure what Grey knew it was something to be cautious of.

Looking up at the face of the old giant, Grey watched his head turned slightly as if to listen to Jade’s footsteps as she retreated back. Keen hearing despite his age apparently. The old man stunk of a smell that mimicked the room, mildew and other associated smells that was associated with thus who survived to such old age.

“What is your name human?” he asked after a moment.

“I… I… uh...” Grey muttered unsure how to respond.

“Answer quickly human or I-” Jade began.

The old man lifted his hand shakily before snapping together two bony fingers in a snap that reverberated across the small room. It was more than sufficient to silence the giantess.

“Now then human, your name, and if you could please speak clearly, my hearing is not what it used to be.”

A statement Grey doubted.

“I’m…” Grey began nervously. “I’m Grey.”

The old man went silent.

“Grey...” he uttered to himself. ”That is a name I have not heard in many years...” he leaned in further, almost as if to examine him with  the use of his fake golden eyes.

“Do you recognize me?” he asked wearily.

“Recognize you? I don’t know-”

“Jade.” the man interrupted. “Describe this human to me.”

“Of course Lord Rowin.” she answered immediately. “He is a human of average height and slim frame. His skin is fair, with green eyes and medium length ashy blonde hair.”

“I see.” the man muttered, sounding far less interested. “Well then, ‘Grey’… how is it that you know Amelia?”

Grey remained silent. These people were dangerous, that was clear. He didn’t know why they wanted Amelia but he was sure that after witnessing Jade in action it wasn’t for benign purposes. Still Grey found himself in a unique position, if he played his cards right he might be able to gleam some info about what was going on, that or be tortured to death. Either way that was a risk worth taking at this point.

“First,” Grey said breaking the silence. “Let me ask you the same question. How do you know Amelia?”

The room fell quiet as Grey’s words hung in the air. Peering over his shoulder Grey could see the mortified expression on Jade’s face, her mouth hung agape as she looked between him and the old man..

“Lord Rowin, I apologize for this human’s behavior. I will make sure he doesn’t-”

Jade stopped as both her and Grey heard the sound of weak hoarse laughter coming from the man. Turning back to him Grey saw the giant, mouth open, yellow teeth exposed as his head rocked slightly as he laughed. Eventually slowing to a stop he sat with a grinning expression as he opened his mouth to address Grey.

“You speak boldly for a human.” Rowin stated. “Just like he used to… Very well, let's make an exchange. A question for a question. For every answer you give me I will give you one in return. However, you must answer truthfully and I will hold myself to the same standards. Does that sound like a deal?”

Careful Grey.

“It does.” he answered without hesitation.

“Very well, I believe my first question still stands. How do you know Amelia?”

“I met her once.” Grey answered. “She saved my life and we parted ways soon after.”

Rowin remained silent as he thought over the response.

“Is that all?”

“Depends, is that another question your asking me?”

Grey was at first unsure how that response would be received, but as the old giant began to laugh again he was able to relax.

“Very good, it appears I’m dealing with a real haggler. I’ll respect your answer and now I believe I owe you an answer.

“In what now feels like a lifetime ago I was both Amelia’s teacher, and a close friend. In my youth I served the royal family as their expert on magic, being quite adept at my young age. I was made responsible for Amelia’s training in magic as she grew I was even appointed as her trusted confidant long after her abilities surpassed my own.”

The old man’s gaze seemed to stare off, as he spoke. As if looking a time long gone. Suddenly he turned to Grey, as if remembering where it is he was.

“Perhaps I’ve said too much. Back to the matter at hand I believe it is my time I ask a another question. So tell me, Do you know where Amelia is?”

“I don’t.” Grey answered hesitating.

“Now Grey,“ the old man sounding troubled. ”Remember we agreed to be truthful with one another.”

“I remember, and I’m telling you the truth.” he insisted. “You can cast a lie detecting spell on me if you like but you’ll find I don’t know.”

“A lie detecting spell? How do you know of such a thing?”

“Is that a question?” Grey said snarkily.

The old man did not smile this time.

“That will be unnecessary, as for your honesty I’ll choose to believe you. This time.” Rowin said. “Now what is it you wish to ask next?”

“What do you plan on doing after you find Amelia?”

“Straight to the heart of it.” he said. “You see Amelia’s return is… problematic to say the least. She’s been gone for over a century and things have changed a great deal since then. There are many alive today who revere her as a symbol of our kingdom’s power, there are those that see her as an incarnation of The Wandering Woman herself. If she were to suddenly remerge in today society well… people may be surprised to find she is not the person once thought to be. We intend to invite her to retire to the shadow, remain out of the eyes of society and if that outcome is not possible then well we will take precautions to make sure her legacy remains untarnished.”

“By that you mean kill her.”

“Is that a question?” Rowin asked coyly.

“More of a statement actually, but I think I’ve got the idea.” Grey said.

“Very well, now for my next question. How did you learn to use magic?”

“I’m afraid this question has the same answer as the last.” Grey answered playfully. “I don’t know.”

“I find that hard to believe Grey. Your magic must have a source, as all magic does. A human could not have learned to use magic out of thin air.”

“You sure about that? There are other humans just like me that awoke to their powers suddenly, I’m just another example of that.” Grey answered in defense.

A small smile formed across Rowin’s lips.

“Is that what you think?”

Grey was taken aback by his response. Something about the way he said it, implied there was much more than he knew..

“Your ignorance speaks for you.” Rowin said. “You are free to ask me whatever question you want next.”

Grey hesitated. There was a lot he still didn’t know. So far he had gotten lucky with the questions he had been asked, and while the old giant appeared amused with his sharpness at first Grey could tell it was starting to lose its charm. There was something very dangerous about this giant, something that even under his welcoming facade worried him. Still thus far he had learned a lot from Rowin. The old man was a wealth of knowledge, and so far Grey had been shooting in the dark. He needed to know more, about himself and the role he played in all of this, Amelia and her sudden return into the world, and so much he didn’t even know enough to ask. But he’d only get so many more questions before Rowin tired of this game. He needed to make this next one count.

“I need to know what happened to Amelia and Grey.”

There was a long pause before Rowin responded.

“Interesting.” he said, as he reclined back into his chair. “Very interesting indeed. I suppose the time has come for me to share this story with another. I suggest you listen closely human, for this is information very few alive are privy to… for me to answer your question to satisfaction, I need to know. What do you know about this other Grey?”

“Not much. Almost nothing in fact, I know he was a human but that's about it.” Grey said honestly.

“Indeed he was. Grey was a human, and a prince your kingdom in an era long since passed.In fact the way in which you speak reminds me a great deal of how he used to be, albeit a bit more rough around the edges, and not nearly as polite.

“Due to what I can only describe as extraordinary circumstances Prince Grey and his envoy were captured by a human catcher whilst away from The Capital. Grey was then purchased by castle staff, intended to be served to the royal family during that nights dinner but upon learning of his lineage the king and queen sought fit to give the prince to their daughter instead. After all a prince would serve as a appropriate meal for a princess.”

“But things didn't go that way.” Grey interrupted.

“You know the story already?”

“I know Amelia loved him.”

Rowin nodded.

“That she did. Grey was unlike other human she had met before, being a breed all of his own. Well mannered, well educated, quick to speak but clever enough to say the right things. At first her interest in him was purely out of fascination but the longer she kept him around the more those feelings changed. Soon he became her little secret. A secret she kept from everyone, but me.”

“You?” Grey said surprised.

Rowin smiled “Of course, I was Amelia’s confidant. She shared everything with me, Grey among them. In fact for a time I had the honor of considering the prince a close acquaintance of mine.”

“Grandfather you can't be serious!?” Jade exclaimed in surprise.

It was the first time Jade had broken her silence since Grey and Rowin’s discussion began. Looking as the old man’s face furrowed in anger, Grey could help but become nervous.

“You shall remain silent as I speak,” the old man declared harshly. “and I have warned you many times about addressing me in such a familial tone, I suggest you watch your mouth from here on out.”

Jade snapped straight as she ducked into a low apologetic bow.

“Yes Lord Rowin. Forgive me Lord Rowin.”

Rowin’s expression softened as he leaned back in his chair once more. Grey couldn’t help but watch Jade from the table, her ashamed gaze cast down on the floor.

Grandfather? He was her grandfather? That was something he was going to need to unpack later.

“Where was I... oh yes. It wasn't long before their relationship took an… unnatural turn. A romance blossomed between them in secrecy, one that even I remained unaware of for a time. Thing did not stay that way for long as not soon after Amelia's parents were poisoned, killed by a human assassin sent by your kingdom to obtain justice for the ‘death’ of their prince.

“This was the conflict that sparked the great war between our kind, and Amelia rose to inherit the title of queen. There are many stories that say that Amelia lead the war on a path to avenge her parents, but in truth she couldn't have been more against the violence. When she returned after her first month on the battlefield-hoping her presence would he more than enough to deter the human forces-she returned mortified of what she saw. The humans put up a surprisingly fair fight after the first few battles, taking a number of are kind with them. Amelia was heartbroken by the war, watching both giants and humans alike killed in this conflict. So with the help of Prince Grey they concocted a plan to end the war, a plan they invited me to ordain. They would have a marriage, one that hoped to unify the human and giant kingdoms under one house, thus ending the war. It was a foolish idea that would have lead to chaos and the ruin of both our worlds.

“I knew that this marriage needed to be stopped, but I was conflicted, unsure on how to proceed… and that's when ‘her’ voice called to me. The voice of the Wandering Woman herself.”

“Great. He’s delusional.”

“The voice spoke, guiding my actions and telling me what must be done. I followed her instructions to the letter and went about setting her plans in action. Despite my fondness for the human prince I orchestrated his death, and when it came I knew it wouldn’t be long before Amelia realized I had betrayed them. I couldn't face her on my own, not only had she long surpassed me in skill as my student, but I lacked the resolve it would have taken to kill her. However, the Wandering Woman provided me with a solution. A curse. An ancient form of magic that would seal Amelia away and assure she would never return. Even now I recall the words...

“To be cast into the void,

and exist with no end.

Until your final words,

are said to him again.”

“Those were the words I spoke, I hear them clearly in my mind as I did the day i spoke them, but curses are tricky things to create. Not only do they require a great deal of power and mastery to perform, but each one must be designed like a puzzle. As to every puzzle there is an answer, to every curse there is a method to reverse it. I had thought the curse impossible to undo, yet it has been. For that that to happen it would take more than just Amelia to accomplish, it would require Prince Grey’s involvement as well.”

“But... if he’s dead, then how could that happen?”

Rowin stared at him for a long moment, the reflection of light gleaming out the corner of his golden “eyes”.

“I think I've said enough. Grey, it was a pleasure to speak with you. You are certainly a breed of your own when it comes to humans, but it is clear you lack the knowledge I seek. Though it's come to my attention that I am conflicted on what to do with you. Perhaps I am in need of guidance...”

The old man’s gaze shifted to Jade. .

“Leave us.”

“Of course Lord Rowin.”

Jade bowed before leaving, shutting the wooden door behind her. Once he heard the door close Rowin raised his hands in the air and began to speak.

“Wandering Woman, mother of magic and watcher of our people, I seek your wisdom now! ”

Grey rolled his eyes.

“Okay this is a little too much even for me.”

Knowing the giant couldn’t see him, now seemed to be the perfect time to escape. Jade was gone, and while he knew she was skilled enough to catch him if given the chance, without her in the room he could attempt to find a way out. The room was so old, Grey knew if he looked hard enough he might find a hole leading somewhere else. At the very least there was plenty of things to hide behind.

Before he could take a single step however the candles in the room were blown out, as a cold breeze swept through. As far as Grey could tell this room was underground, far from any window or connection to the outside, and with their door closed there was no way a draft that strong could have-

She’s here.

The candle in the room relit suddenly, but the flames that burned on the candle wicks glowed with an uncanny purple flame. With this now strangely lit fire, it was difficult to make out many of the objects inside. Eventually Grey’s eyes began to adjust as he instinctively looked up towards Rowin. He sat in front of him just as he was a moment ago, his arms raised in the air, but as Grey looked more closely a great sensation of terror took hold as soon realized they were no longer alone.

Behind the blind old man stood a figure, a figure shrouded in robes with thier head tucked tightly behind the cowl of a dark hood. The figure leaned closely from behind, it’s face positioned besides his ear as Grey could faintly recognize the movement of lips whispering something in the darkness. Rowin nodded silently as the figure spoke, their faint voice and completely unintelligible. After a moment the figure stopped, standing at full height and turning it’s shadowy gaze towards the table. Grey watched in horror as the lips of this figure pursed into faint smile just as the candles went out, leaving the visage of the smiling figure imprinted in the darkness.

…

The new prison Grey found himself in was much roomier when compared to the pouch he had traveled in over the course of the past few days. It even allowed for a nice view as he was carried through the castle halls.

After the events with Rowin, Grey was once more handed off to Jade, yet looking at she  appeared now she couldn’t have been more different than how she was on the road. Her hair was neatly combed and she wore makeup that attempted to cover her scars. Instead of her dark leather armor she was now dressed in a fine black dress, something that Grey still had a hard time believing despite seeing it in front of him.

“You know it’s a shame.” she said after a bit. “After all the trouble you’ve given me I was really hoping that I would be the one to deal with you, but Lord Rowin’s orders are final, and I can’t say that a public execution isn’t appealing. I’ll have to make sure to stop by and see you off.”

Grey ignored her, instead remained silent and taking a moment to reflect on what Rowin had ordered His status as a magic capable human was substantial. The Trinity had been causing a stir within giant society and while many dismissed their abilities as just rumors, there were those who were starting to believe the stories of magic using giant killers. It was decided that Grey’s death may serve a purpose and ease the consciousness of other giants. So in a few days the royal palace would host a dinner party where Grey would be served as the main event. Devoured alive by the Queen herself, a symbol of authority and dominance even over this new breed of humans.

To assure he wouldn’t escape before the party the cage Grey was locked in was enchanted with spell that would block any magic he tried to cast while inside. It was identical to a spell Grey had witnessed one of Jule’s friends use after capturing Zeke.

As for where he was being taken Grey didn’t know, though he was surprised by how quickly the scenery had changed from Rowin’s lower chambers into the castle. One moment they were walking dark corridors and dimly lit stone halls then the next they were in a lavish hallway with royal portraits, expensive carpets, and windows draped with silk curtains.

“Getting a good look of the castle?” Jade surmised after watching him. ”I know how you think, and I want you to know that even if you did escape you’d have a harder time finding your back than you’d think.”

“I suppose you don’t want to test that theory, would you?”

Grey watched as she instinctively smirked.

“I hate to say it but I’m gonna miss you.”

“Becoming sentimental all of a sudden?”

“If I was I’d be breaking your leg one more time for good measure.” she mocked. “Just don’t miss me too much when the queen is about to swallow.”

“I think i’ll take her over you anyday.”

“I’m sure you’re girlfriend would disagree.” Jade said as she patted her stomach.

Grey didn’t so much as look her way as he responded.

“You better pray to your Wandering Bitch that I don’t find a way to escape.”

“On the contrary, I’ve been praying that you do.” she teased. “You see if you escape then it’ll be up to me to catch you and once I do catch you that’ll be it. You’d be mine. No queen, no Rowin, no mission. Just you and me and there’s a lot I’ve been dying to do since I got my hands on you.”

“So long as you get granddaddy's permission first. Don’t want him getting mad again.”

By the fact that Jade shook the cage enough to make him fall after saying that, Grey took it as a sign that he had won that exchange. A small comfort.

Before long Jade turned a corner and approached a set of doors that lead into a grand kitchen. Grey’s nostrils were immediately met with the alluring aroma of delicious foods being prepped as meats, vegetables and other goodies hung on the wall, and baskets of fruits and breads were splayed on the counters.

Once Jade stepped inside a nearly middle aged woman wearing an white apron turned to greet her. The woman had an olive like complexion, with raven hair and somewhat stout figure.

“Oh, Jade. Welcome!”

Jade put on probably the fakest smile Grey had ever seen as she brought up her voice in an attempt to sound cheerful.

“Olivia good to see you.”

The raven haired giant smiled.

“How have you been? I swear it's been months since I last saw you.”

“I’ve been very busy lately.” Jade struggled to say through a smile. “Just running errands for Lord Rowin.”

“And how is your grandfather doing?”

“Well considering his age he is doing very well. Did you get the instructions he sent?”

The woman looked somewhat startled.

“Oh yes, yes. Just moments ago actually.” she turned her attention to the cage Jade held in her hands. “Is this the one?”

“Yup, this is him.”

The giantess crouched to get a better look inside. Grey unsure how he might want to approach this giant shifted awkwardly as her eyes fell on him.

“So this is the human everyone's been talking about... can he really use magic?”

“He can, but it’s not what you think. His magic is limited to illusions and simple ones at that. It's how we believe he’s been pulling off all these claims of other powers. You don’t need to worry though, I’ve placed a magical seal over the cage so you won’t have to deal with any of his tricks.”

“Wandering Woman grace us, how is he able to do such a thing?”

“My grandfather and others are looking into that, we just need you to keep a close eye on him until the party. He’s a crafty one so it’s best to be on high alert when dealing with him, even without his magic.”

Jade held the cage out to her, and Olivia took it cautiously.

“Remember he is to be kept alive and well fed until the royal party.”

Olivia nodded. “Oh yes, I’ll keep him right as rain till then.”

“Good. Now if you excuse me I’m sure you have a lot prep to do.”

Jade gave Grey one final glance before departing, disappearing behind the doors and out of sight. After she left Olivia sighed with relief.

“That woman gives me creeps.” she said out loud to herself.

“We have something in common then.” Grey said in return.

The giant raised the cage to her face and looked him over.

“Sure. Now what am I going to do with you until the party?”

“Well personally I’ve always wanted to take up cooking, so I wouldn’t mind if you gave me a few pointers.”

The woman chuckled.

“Well at least you’ve got a sense of humor.”

“What can I say, it’s part of my charm.” Grey shrugged throwing it off as nonchalant.

“Quite, but I’m afraid I don’t have the time to deal with your charm today so uh...”

Olivia looked around the kitchen as she decided what to do.

“Ahh well, I guess so long as you’re in your cage I can put you with the others.”

Olivia lowered the cage, holding it firmly against her chest as she made her way across the kitchen. Her ample bosom pressed against the bars, swelling slightly as if tempting him to cop a feel. While the thought appealed to him Grey held himself to higher standards than that, though that didn’t stop him from admiring the view. After a moment of watching the jiggling mounds sway against his cage Grey turned in time to see what looked like a large glass tank with a lid that the giantess carefully removed.

Inside Grey got a glimpse of what looked like a village. The floor was covered in a green material that was meant to resemble grass, and the buildings were mostly uniform, though small even by humans standards, maybe about large enough to fit only a couple people at a time. More surprising than the fake grass and cramped buildings however, was the fact that Grey saw this village was inhabited by other humans. They were all clothed in simple attire and seemed physically at least in very good condition. Many of these humans looked his way as his cage was brought into view,  being set down in the middle of the “town” Grey watched as men and women alike crowded out of their makeshift homes to see what was going on.

“Alright now, listen up.” Olivia announced. “This here is a special human. He gonna be served directly to the queen herself in a few days. Make sure to keep him well fed and looking good for the party. If any of you start any trouble I’ll make sure you’ll be the first to be served to the guests. Understood?”

With that the giantess closed he lid over the enclosure, sealing them inside. Grey watched the crowd of humans that surrounded his cage, he was speechless. They looked at him with such confusion and concern, and while some openly talked about him no tried talking to him. But what surprised Grey more than their reclusive behavior, was just how many of them there were in here.

Before Grey could begin to ask questions the crowd parted as two large men approached the door to the cage.

“Move aside, boss wants this opened up.” one of them announced.

The first man took out a small object, almost like a sharp stone, wedging it in the doors lock as he fought to pry it open. The other man helped, using the strength of his upper body to pull the door back. Grey watched in amazement as the lock broke and the door was flung open, granting him his freedom.

“Wow thanks for that. I really’ don’t know what to-” Grey began only to be silenced as the two men rushed in and pinned him to the ground.

“Hey!?” Grey exclaimed in confusion. “What the hell are you doing!? Get off!”

Grey tried to throw them off but the two men hand nearly a hundred pounds over him, making struggling a losing battle. Still trying to figure out what was going on, a voice spoke, one that made his blood run cold as he heard it.

“My, my, my, aren’t we a sight for sore eyes.”

Grey stopped struggling as he had heard the voice before. He struggled to lift his head as he looked up and saw a face, a face he had not seen in many years. The face of a smiling man, with small scars littered across the side of his face.

“J… jack?”

“Hello Grey. It's so good to see you again.”

Then everything went black.