Damian's Assassin

"Sir, this is Speck in Ohio, Southeast Sector. We're seeing something strange out here. Not sure what to make of it. You got someone free to take a look?"

"I'll be right there," Dusty said, retrieving his shirt. He hung it up only for it to ring again. "What, Sofi?"

"Someone's going to ask you a question tomorrow morning. The answer is Mercy Hospital."

"Is that all you'll give me?" he asked.

"Yep."

"I'm headed to Ohio. I'll be back later."

"Dusty, you need to get some rest," she said, concern in her voice. "The world can wait for you to sleep for a few hours."

"Bad guys don't stop doing bad things just because I need a nap," he said. "I'm okay, Sofi, I promise."

"I worry about you."

"You're the only one."

"You'll have to get used to it pretty soon," she said.

"Damn Oracles!"

"Have a good trip."

"You'll get yours," he promised. "Any minute now Darian's going to beat down your door."

"Remember: Mercy's."

He hung up and tucked the phone away, amused. He closed his eyes and summoned his power to Travel, one of the most useful gifts Damian granted him. When he opened his eyes, he was in Speck's backyard. Speck was waiting for him, at his feet a creature Dusty couldn't identify. Grimly, he realized he wouldn't be catching a nap for some time.