Requiem of Steel
Staring vacantly into a holographic wall painting, Jac’s mind wandered, a multitude of thoughts simultaneously crossing every synapse and then blinking out like a collapsing star, almost matching the tumult of the painting nearby. The painting shifted and warped into various images, a war of color and shape being fought tooth and nail to match the personality of the man who stood next to it. Intellect tests said he was brilliant, though he considered them about as useful as those who administer them. Because of them the government has endeavored to extend an invitation to join the Science Committee at least annually, which he promptly returns to sender or even blatantly ignores, feeling his place to be on the streets helping people the only way he truly feels he can. Though technically a freelance detective, he is considered one of the best officers in the city, even gaining honorary status with the sector C police department. Which is where he is now, waiting for the Police Chief to finish his briefing of another two officers, likely the same case he was called here for. A brief tap on the shoulder was all that was needed to grab his attention, his grey eyes immediately locking onto the poor intern with a steely gaze.
“Excuse me detective, the Chief is ready to see you in his office.” The almost timid man stammered, refusing to even meet Jac’s gaze for more than a moment. With the merest nod and a reassuring smile he found his way through the cubicles, almost as if he lived here in the offices his entire life, before finally stopping at his destination. He hit the door panel and strode calmly through as the door slid open and closed with a rasp. Not even a second through the door Jac scanned the room, clearing his throat as he notes Geralt with his back turned, examining a large stack of case files. Swiveling in his chair, the Chief of Sector B’s police force coughed and immediately began briefing Jac.
“We’ve had a recent rash of disappearances that match the MO of the Paradox.” The Chief, noting Jac’s raised eyebrow, continued on. “As you well know, the Paradox was apparently imprisoned for those crimes, though taking this in consideration either we made a horrible mistake and the real Paradox is running around out there, or we’ve got a copycat on the loose. Regardless I needed the best man in the city on this case, and that’s you.” And with that, Geralt hands him the relevant files with a slight nod of his head. “Those documents cover everything that was a part of that case, witnesses, suspects, evidence, and the previous and current victims as well. You need to find them Jac, you’re the only person I know who can.”
Jac gives a quick glance at the files and looks Geralt in the eyes “You’ve been my friend ever since the thaw 4 years ago, your daughter will be fine, I promise.” And with that he walks out of the room, stopping only to hit the door panel on the way out.