The Time Keeper

Chapter 34 - New Materials

Climbing out of bed, I still mulled over the remnants of the lucid-like dream, or possibly even nightmare. Despite the lingering unsettling feeling, I knew it was just a dream though the thoughts of it meaning something deeper or the fact it could be due to the overuse of my ability.

I went about my new morning routine, putting on my suit ready to go to work, feeling the comfortable fabric against my skin. Walking down the stairs to the dining room and kitchen, I noted that Caius still hadn't returned. Where could he be? Not that I cared, of course. It was merely curious confusion that floated through my mind.

With a shrug, I decided to continue with my routine undeterred. I stepped outside and walked through the streets, making my way to the town centre. The early morning sun casting a warm glow over the cold stone, and a gentle breeze carried with it the promise of a new day.

I picked up breakfast from the bakery along with a coffee and finished it up just as I turned onto Argyle Lane to see the Den up ahead. My new routine feeling comfortable and familiar to me as I finally felt as though I had adapted to this new life. Leaving my old routine and habits of my old life behind, and settling into this new environment.

As I approached inside, Lucas was stationed at the lobby desk instead of Jean who I was used to seeing. I guessed that the crew rotated around, taking turns seated at reception. It would be my turn at some point if that was the case.

I waved to Lucas to say good morning but he just gave me a glance and looked back ahead at the door with his arms crossed, leaning back in his chair. As I mostly expected.

I walked past, making my way towards the meeting room. As I pushed open the door, I was met with an unexpected sight. Fleur was engaged in a conversation with Felix. It was surprising to see him here, considering I had only encountered him once before at the library.

Curiosity piqued, I approached the pair, Fleur noticing my presence first. She greeted me with a warm smile. "Good morning, Elias. I was just catching up with Felix here. He has some interesting new information about what's going on around town."

Felix glanced up from the book he was reading, his gaze lingering on me for a moment before he nodded in acknowledgement. His silence seemed to speak volumes, and I couldn't help but wonder what thoughts were hidden behind his piercing eyes.

Before I could inquire further, Darius walked up to us, his presence commanding attention. "Good morning, Elias," he greeted with a nod. "I hope you're feeling well-rested. Alexei left something for you yesterday before he departed for the capital."

My interest piqued, I raised an eyebrow. "Good morning to you too Boss. What did he leave me? Was it the revolver he mentioned?"

"No no, I'm not actually sure what it is. I never went to look for myself," Darius replied. "Although I did manage to issue you one. I've already signed off on it and it's ready for your use.

Darius motioned for me to follow him, and I fell in step beside him as we made our way out of the meeting room and into the familiar corridors of the Den.

We reached a small armoury tucked away behind a reinforced door. Darius unlocked it with a key from his pocket, revealing a collection of firearms neatly organized on racks. The sight sent a shiver down my spine.

Darius approached one particular rack and reached for a polished black revolver. It gleamed under the dim lighting, its handle wrapped in worn leather. He handed it to me, the weight of it settling comfortably in my grip.

"Remember, Elias," Darius cautioned, his voice carrying a note of seriousness. "A firearm is a tool that demands respect and responsibility. It is not to be taken lightly. Take the time to familiarize yourself with it, practice proper handling and maintenance."