Story 652: The Blade's Redemption

The cathedral's dim candlelight flickered as General Viktor "Bloodfang" Kruger ran his combat knife across his gloved fingers, feeling the cold steel press against his flesh. The war had carved deep scars into his soul, but this moment—this ritual—was a reminder of who he was. A soldier. A killer. A survivor.

The undead hordes outside clawed at the iron doors, their guttural moans echoing through the ruined sanctuary. Kruger exhaled slowly. There was no fear in his eyes. Only resolve.

"You hesitate, General."

The voice came from the shadows. Dr. Sylvia "Plague Mistress" Voss stepped forward, her blood-red cloak billowing. Her golden eyes gleamed with amusement, though the scars on her face betrayed the horrors she had endured.

Kruger chuckled darkly, pressing the edge of the knife to his palm once more. "I don't hesitate," he growled. "I calculate."