The Journal of Grimmology is proud to present a testimony five years in the making. The author of this story has requested his name struck from this article, but they have organized an inbox by which to send further correspondence. Any questions regarding the article may be sent to this address, and we wish to note that derogatory and hateful responses will result in the revoking of this privilege. We hope you will approach this story with an open mind and continue to uphold the standards that make individuals like these able to share their experiences with the world.
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It is hard to think about the Grimm without invoking images of roaring cannons and shining warriors, but in my long career I have come to appreciate the true reason behind humanities continued success. Dust and Aura are certainly powerful, but like any tool it can do nothing on its own. It must be wielded by people who turn their latent strength to practical application.
I have survived over 200 flights and have over 70 Nevermore kills to my name. The ability to adapt the tools at my disposal, to the ever changing circumstances of the skies has been the single greatest benefactor to my continued livelihood. I might not be as strong as a Nevermore, and there isn't an aircraft to this day that can compete with their maneuverability, but by golly I can outthink those buzzards, and that's all I need to come home with another kill on the tally.
To be honest, I find it more likely my plane will kill me than some Nevermore. All tools break eventually, and more often than not, they break while in use. A Nevermore you can fly away from, but a stalled engine 16,000 feet above the sea? Well, it's moments like those when you feel that standard issue pistol against your hip.
What I faced that day was no Nevermore… I stared into that reflection beyond the glass and knew myself for the fool that I was. The nation of Haven believed this would cause hysteria should this story be disclosed, yet I know now that is no excuse. I must confide with you the details of that day, to give you a taste of the fear I felt, to prepare you for what must one day intrude upon the boarders of our civilization.