Reinhard's truck trundled up the gravel path, its wheels kicking up small clouds of dust as it neared the Margrave’s keep. The weathered stone walls loomed over him, like a silent sentinel watching the horizon. For years, this fortress had been a home of sorts—no longer the battlefield it had been in his past life, but a pce of duty, nonetheless. Still, today, it felt different. The tension in the air, thick and oppressive, seemed to gnaw at the edges of his thoughts.

  He gnced over at his son, Heinrich, who sat beside him in the front seat, his youthful face drawn with both excitement and nervousness. At fourteen, Heinrich had already grown into a capable young man, but there were still many things the world had yet to teach him.

  "You alright?" Reinhard asked, breaking the silence.

  Heinrich straightened in his seat, his youthful gaze still fixed on the stone structure. "I’ve heard a lot about the Margrave’s keep, but I’ve never been inside. It’s... impressive."

  "It is," Reinhard agreed. "But it’s also a pce of hard decisions. Some of those decisions might affect us all."

  Reinhard couldn’t help but feel a pang of pride for the boy, but that pride was accompanied by a gnawing fear. There were threats to this pce that couldn’t be seen. And no matter how much Reinhard tried to leave his past behind, the memories always found their way back. The recollections from his previous life—of battles fought, comrades lost, and the haunting truth of how it all ended—always lingered in the background.

  He was a reincarnate, a man reborn with the memories of another life in the modern world. That life had been one of violence, where every moment had been a fight for survival. He had died with regrets, unanswered questions. But now, with the memories intact, there was something new at stake. He had family. He had his eldest boy and two younger daughters. And that was more than he’d ever had before.

  The truck came to a halt before the massive gate, and Reinhard put it in park. Two armored guards stood at attention, their shields embzoned with the Halderan coat of arms. As Reinhard stepped out, the guards gave him a respectful nod.

  One of the guards approached, his voice breaking through Reinhard's reverie. “Ah, Reinhard, good to see you again. Been a while since I've seen you—and your carriage.” The guard gestured to the truck with a smile. “We’ve been informed you have goods for the Margrave. As per protocol, we’ll need to inspect your cargo. Please step out.”

  Reinhard returned the greeting, stepping out of the truck and lowering the ramp at the back. He and the guard carefully opened the crate containing bottles of whiskey, the bel gleaming in the sun: Sunset Mist; 5-year Ashenoak-aged Single Malt Whisky. The guard's eyes widened at the sight. “Impressive,” he said, nodding with approval. “Everything checks out. You may pass.”

  “Thank you,” Reinhard replied, as he climbed back into the truck, his son Heinrich beside him. The gate opened with a grinding of metal, and they drove into the inner courtyard. The massive fountain in the center of the courtyard, its stonework worn but still magnificent, spshed in the quiet morning light. The guards on either side stood in their typical positions, watching the truck as it passed. Everything in this pce had its order, its pce.

  The mention of the Verminthar had already unsettled him more than he cared to admit. The Margrave had sent word earlier, whispering of strange sightings below Stonewatch—rge rats, many too rge to be normal, and the suspicion that something more sinister was brewing beneath the city. Verminthar. It was a name that resonated with his past encounters at the Grimstone Bastion.

  “Stay close,” Reinhard said to Heinrich. “It’s not the most dangerous of pces, but you never know when things can go wrong."

  Together, they drove through the gate and past the fountain that sat in the courtyard. The stone steps leading up to the main keep loomed ahead, and Reinhard parked the truck with a practiced motion.

  Heinrich nodded but remained silent as they drove toward the stairs leading into the Margrave’s keep.

  As he stepped out of the truck, he saw Franz, the Margrave’s head butler, descending the stairs to greet them. Franz was a tall man, impeccably dressed, his hair graying slightly at the temples, but his posture still strong and purposeful. He had always struck Reinhard as someone who valued tradition, duty, and efficiency—traits that the Margrave shared.

  “Good morning, Mr. Reinhard,” Franz said with a warm smile. “And this must be your son Heinrich. It’s a pleasure to meet you, young man.”

  Heinrich shook the butler’s hand with a polite but firm grip. “It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Franz,” he said.

  Franz’s gaze lingered on Heinrich for a moment, noting the young man’s composure. “I trust you’re here to learn your father’s trade?”

  “Yes, sir,” Heinrich replied.

  “Excellent,” Franz said with a smile. “If you need any assistance with your goods, feel free to let me know.”

  Reinhard shook his head, “No need. Just tell me where you’d like me to take them.”

  Franz nodded and turned to lead them inside. The keep's interior was simple but elegant—polished floors gleaming under the soft glow of magical lights, portraits of the Margrave’s ancestors lining the walls, and well-maintained pnters and suits of armor decorating the hallways. Reinhard couldn’t help but notice the military efficiency in the yout, reminding him of the many military establishments he’d encountered in his past. The Margrave’s estate, despite its grandeur, remained a reflection of his values—practical, efficient, and ready for anything.

  They walked down the hall towards the wine celr. As they neared the door, a figure appeared—Erich, the Margrave's court mage. Tall, slender, and ethereal in appearance, with his ptinum hair and piercing green eyes, Erich had always struck Reinhard as someone deeply committed to his craft. But there was also something else about the mage—an intensity that spoke of a deeper understanding of the world’s forces, something Reinhard could rete to.

  “Good to see you, Reinhard,” Erich said with a polite nod. “I’m here to inspect your goods for any... unwelcome surprises.”

  Reinhard smiled grimly. “No surprises today, I assure you.”

  Franz unlocked the heavy door to the wine celr, and the group entered. The celr was cool and smelled of aged wood and fine wine. Large barrels lined the walls, each neatly marked with its contents, and an ornate shelf housed smaller bottles. Reinhard id out the crate and opened it, carefully arranging the bottles for Erich’s inspection.

  The mage’s staff glowed, and a magical circle appeared around the bottles, shimmering with blue light. Reinhard watched as the patterns of the circle danced, the air seeming to hum with the power coursing through it. Heinrich, standing beside his father, was awestruck by the dispy. Reinhard could tell that his son was beginning to understand just how much magic permeated their world, but he had no idea how deep the well of power truly ran.

  Erich examined the whiskey bottles, his expression focused. The magical light around them seemed to pulse, revealing faint traces of arcane energy embedded in the gss. It was an unusual inspection method, but Reinhard knew it was necessary for someone of Erich’s stature. They couldn’t afford to miss anything, especially with the strange reports of Vermithar in the sewers.

  Erich completed the inspection, nodding with satisfaction. “These are safe to drink,” he said, his voice calm and measured. “And I must say, Reinhard, the quality of this batch is remarkable. I can’t wait to sample it.”

  They moved to the wine rack, pcing the bottles in their proper pces. But as Reinhard picked up the final bottle, Franz stopped him.

  “This one,” Franz said, “is for His Excellency. The Margrave wishes to taste it himself.”

  Reinhard nodded, and with that, the group made their way to the Margrave’s study. The Margrave’s study was a reflection of the man himself—well-organized, efficient, and slightly austere. Reinhard had met with the Margrave many times, but each encounter carried weight, especially now with the looming threat of the Vermithar.

  The study doors opened, and the Margrave rose from behind his desk. A seasoned veteran, his sharp features and bck hair with hints of gray made him look both regal and battle-hardened. His brown eyes were clear and filled with purpose. His military uniform, adorned with medals and a bck and white sash, spoke of years of service and sacrifice. The Margrave’s presence in the room seemed to command immediate respect.

  “Reinhard,” he said in a stern voice, “you’re just in time. I trust the shipment is as expected?”

  “Yes, Your Excellency,” Reinhard replied, his voice steady despite the unease building in him. He didn’t want to show it, but the tension in the air was palpable. The Vermithar were not something one could ignore. They were capable of bringing ruin to this nd, and if they were here... if they had infiltrated the city, things could get ugly quickly.

  The Margrave accepted the whiskey, nodding thoughtfully as he observed the color and aroma before taking a sip. “Very good,” he said. “I’m impressed, Reinhard. And I’ve heard the reports—any changes in fvor since the st batch?”

  Reinhard cleared his throat, mentally steeling himself. “Yes, Your Excellency,” he said. “This batch is much smoother, with hints of citrus, maple, and vanil custard. The ash oak barrels bring a subtle smoky fvor that adds depth.”

  The Margrave’s expression softened as he took another sip. “Excellent.” He turned to his butler. “Franz, bring us some cigars.”

  Reinhard, feeling the tension ebb away for a moment, nodded respectfully. “Thank you, Your Excellency. I also brought you a gift,” he said, pulling a small wooden box from his pocket.

  Franz examined the cigars, then passed them to the Margrave, who smiled approvingly. Franz prepared the cigars and handed them to margrave and Reinhard.

  “Thank you, Reinhard,” the Margrave said, “and now, to business. Stonewatch needs an airship dock, and I intend to build a drydock for ship construction. We need to modernize—especially with the Malyran and Deshien at our borders. The Emperor has provided a grant, but we’ll need your expertise to make this happen.”

  Reinhard nodded. The Margrave was a man of action. Reinhard understood the importance of such a project, and the opportunity it offered. His mind was already turning, strategizing.

  “And there’s another matter,” the Margrave continued, his voice growing colder. “I’ve received disturbing reports. The sewers beneath Stonewatch—there have been sightings of rge rodents. But I suspect they’re not mere pests. These aren’t just rats, Reinhard. I believe we have a rger problem on our hands. A Verminthar problem.”

  The word struck Reinhard like a punch to the gut. Verminthar. The creatures of nightmares. Deadly, cunning, and terrifying in their numbers. They spread disease and death wherever they were sighted. Corrupting the nd with Netherstone and dark magic. If they were truly here, Stonewatch would face a threat unlike any it had ever known. Reinhard felt the weight of the situation press down on him, but he did not flinch.

  “Verminthar?” he repeated, his voice grim. “Are you certain?”

  “I believe it,” the Margrave said, his eyes darkening. “Reports suggest a rge nest, deep in the sewers. And they are spreading. I need you to investigate this, Reinhard, if possible destroy the nest. if left unchecked, they could overrun Stonewatch itself.”

  Reinhard stood up, bowing respectfully. “Consider it done, Your Excellency. I’ll begin immediately.”

  The Margrave studied him for a long moment, his eyes narrowing. "Be cautious, Reinhard. If the Verminthar are as dangerous as we fear, the risk to the city is great. This is not a simple task."

  Reinhard met the Margrave’s gaze without hesitation. “It’s my duty, I will not let them harm the Empire or this city.”

  Franz handed Reinhard a leather pouch with a clink of ptinum. “For your work, Reinhard. And a small deposit for any supplies you might need.”

  Reinhard looked at the pouch in surprise. Twenty-five ptinum pieces. It was more than he had ever expected for a task of this nature, and it reminded him of the stakes.

  Before they left, Franz turned to Heinrich, handing him an ornate box. “On behalf of His Excellency, a gift for you. As you come of age, this medallion will open doors for you in any of the Margrave’s domains. It’s a token of trust.”

  Heinrich’s eyes widened. “Thank you,” he said, his voice filled with awe.

  Franz smiled softly. “I hope you will use it well, young Heinrich.”

  As Reinhard and Heinrich made their way back to the truck, the gravity of the situation weighed heavily on him. The Vermithar were not to be taken lightly. And as he looked at his son, he knew that his actions in the coming days would shape their future.

  They left the city at midday, selling and buying all the goods they brought with them. The ride home was much livelier this time. Heinrich was still buzzing with excitement, holding the medallion he had received from the Margrave like it was the world’s greatest treasure. Reinhard, sensing the importance of the moment, spoke with gravity.

  “That medallion is no ordinary gift, Heinrich,” he began. “You need to keep it safe, and above all, don’t talk about it to anyone. These are a rarity within the Empire and signal a deep bond to the liege. It’s rare, valuable, and many would want it. This will cut through much of the bureaucracy for you, and it shows how much the Margrave appreciates what we’ve done for his nds.”

  Heinrich listened attentively, nodding, understanding that this was no mere token of favor but something that carried real weight. It was a ticket to Heinrich’s education and future, and a sign of the family’s rising status in the eyes of the Margrave.

  They arrived home not long after, the afternoon sun high in the sky. Alice and the girls had already been hard at work preparing food for the gathering, and Reinhard and Heinrich quickly set about readying the grill and organizing the seating area. Mars, their direwolf companion, sat zily in the shade, watching the bustle of activity around him.

  As the afternoon passed, the first guests began to arrive. Friends and family gathered to celebrate Heinrich’s birthday. Children ran about, their ughter mixing with the sound of sizzling meat on the grill. Mars, ever pyful, joined them in their games, fetching sticks and receiving treats in exchange.

  Reinhard, standing near the grill, surveyed the scene, feeling a sense of calm. His family was safe, and the life he had built here was one worth protecting. He had seen enough destruction in his past life—a world torn apart by war and greed. He had been just another young soldier, caught up in the carnage of a crumbling nation. The memories came back unbidden—his sacrifice on the battlefield, a gauss rifle shot meant for his commander, and the feeling of emptiness as his country fell into ruin. His death had been for nothing, and his homend had been wiped from existence. But here, in this new life, he had a chance to build something different. His actions mattered. His family mattered.

  The sound of footsteps snapped Reinhard out of his reverie. Erich, his oldest friend, approached, greeting him with a familiar smile. “Reinhard, always lost in thought. You and I need to catch up,” he said with a grin.

  Reinhard returned the smile and nodded. The two of them excused themselves from the festivities and made their way down into the celr. As they descended, the sounds of the party above faded away, leaving only the quiet hum of the house’s battery system to break the silence.

  Reinhard’s workshop was a mix of old-world craftsmanship and otherworldly technology—tools and gadgets summoned from the memories of his past life. Erich was always fascinated by the inventions Reinhard managed to create here, and his eyes immediately fell on some new additions.

  “You never cease to amaze me,” Erich said, his curiosity piqued. “Every time I visit, there’s something new.”

  Reinhard smiled faintly. “I only summon what we really need. Things to make life easier around here. But I’m careful. There are things from my old world that should never see the light of day. The kind of technology that could bring chaos to this pce.”

  Erich frowned slightly. He knew bits and pieces of Reinhard’s past, but the full picture was always clouded in mystery. Reinhard didn’t talk much about the world he had come from, and when he did, it was usually with a grim tone.

  Reinhard’s thoughts drifted once again, back to that world—his world. Advanced technology, endless conflict. A world where war had become a way of life, and resources were dwindling. He had fought in that final war, giving everything he had for a cause that, in the end, had been meaningless. His country had been lost, and with it, any hope of preserving their way of life. But this world—this new life—was different. He had something to protect here.

  Sensing the heaviness of the moment, Erich changed the subject. “Reinhard, without you, we wouldn’t have the tools to fight the disease that swept through the Empire st year. And your innovations with irrigation have made these nds some of the most fertile in the realm. The Margrave owes much of his success to you.”

  Reinhard nodded, appreciating the shift. “It’s been fulfilling, helping in ways that don’t involve a sword or a gun.”

  Erich smiled but then leaned in, his voice lowering. “I came with news about the Verminthar activity the soldiers have been seeing around the sewers of Stonewatch.” He paused, letting the weight of his words settle before continuing. “I’ve spoken with schors, even consulted the dwarves at Grimstone Hold, and something’s not right. The Verminthar are bolder, more organized. Your mission into the sewers will help us figure out what’s driving them.”

  Reinhard opened a vault along the wall and began pulling out his gear. The mission ahead would require him to be stealthy, and his equipment reflected that. He id everything out meticulously on the workbench: his pte carrier, lightweight and durable; a body glove suit that provided flexibility and protection; a helmet fitted with night vision and thermal optics; an ATAK system that was pre-programmed, linked to the small fleet of autonomous drones that would scout ahead and feed real-time data to his visor, and a rebreather to filter out the noxious fumes that filled the sewers below.

  Next came the weapons—a suppressed Banshee chambered in .300 Bckout, perfect for quiet, lethal efficiency, and a Glock 19 with a suppressor as a sidearm. His belt held fshbangs, concussion grenades, and other tools of the trade. His backpack held even more surprises, a comprehensive first-aid kit, spare ammunition, rations, C4 explosives, teargas and thermite.

  Erich watched with wide eyes, fascinated by the technology. “This gear of yours, it’s… incredible. What’s this one do?” he asked, pointing to the ATAK system.

  Reinhard expined the various pieces of equipment, though most of it flew over Erich’s head. But when Erich pulled out a map of the sewer system, the conversation turned serious again. They began discussing potential risks, routes, and strategies for the covert mission Reinhard was about to undertake as well as integrating the map into his ATAK system.

  Meanwhile, upstairs, the celebration continued. Alice and the girls brought out the cake for Heinrich, and as he blew out the candles, the guests cheered. Alice sliced the cake with precision, passing out pieces to the guests while Mars waited eagerly by her side, hoping for a stray crumb.

  As Reinhard and Erich emerged from the celr and rejoined the party, Alice approached her husband, linking her arm with his. “You were gone for quite a while,” she teased. “Were you two talking business again?”

  Reinhard smiled sheepishly. “Yes, love. The Margrave has asked me to investigate the sewers under Stonewatch. I’ll need to leave soon.”

  Alice sighed, her expression softening. “That doesn’t sound good. Is there anything I can do?”

  Reinhard shook his head. “I’ve got this one. Just hold down the fort while I’m gone.”

  Alice smiled, leaning in closer. “Make sure to come back quickly, or you’ll be sleeping in the barn.”

  Reinhard chuckled, pulling her into a hug. “I wouldn’t dare stay away too long.”

  Their moment was interrupted by the sound of Annabel dropping her pte, and Mars, ever opportunistic, gobbled up the fallen cake. Annabel wailed in frustration, and Mars let out a triumphant bark, his tail wagging furiously.

  Both Reinhard and Alice ughed, their brief moment of peace broken in the most endearing way possible. Reinhard knelt down to collect the broken pte, while Alice consoled their daughter and cut her a fresh piece of cake. It was a small hiccup in what had been a perfect day.

  As the evening wound down and the guests left, the family cleaned up together, finishing just as the st light of the day faded. The children went to bed, exhausted from the day’s excitement, and soon after, Alice and Reinhard followed suit.

  Lying in bed, Alice turned to her husband. “When will you begin the mission?” she asked softly.

  Reinhard sighed, turning to face her. “Tomorrow. The sooner I leave, the sooner I’ll be back.”

  Alice smiled pyfully. “Then you’d better savor tonight, because when you return, the barn awaits.”

  Reinhard ughed, pulling her close. “We’ll see about that.”

  They both drifted off to sleep, the warmth of their shared life enveloping them like a shield against the dark days that y ahead.