--- Part 8: The Devil You Know ---
She checked in at the Guild desk located at the entrance to the government VR research labs. Perusing the activity boards she saw only one name was listed as being on the surface. She frowned, it was early evening but there should still be many more people listed there. She then chided herself for being stupid. The whole security blanket ban was in effect thus no missions. It would seem that you could earn a lot of trust by being the Hunter that killed Falz.
She shrugged and walked towards the rendezvous point. If she did solve this mystery, she would no doubt need that Hunter's assistance, it was always useful to have that kind of sheer power for backup. The lights were all on but the shops and other areas were closed, no hunters equalled no business. It gave her the feel of walking into a trap and she shivered slightly despite not being cold. She was just glad that she always walked around fully armed.
She descended the ramp and saw that no one was there. Walking to the window the thought occurred to her that she might be early for whatever meeting was coming. Staring down at the blue-green globe beyond the window, she almost did not hear the voice quietly summoning her.
"Psst!"
She turned to see the source of the noise, the FOnewm Hopkins hiding in his little alcove. She approached him.
"How long have you been standing there?" She asked.
He ignored her question. "Did you come here alone? Did anyone follow you?" His tone was hushed but urgent.
"Followed? No. What are you talking about?"
She was surprised when he grabbed her by the wrist. A jolt and she found herself in a familiar room. The circular room had no visible exits and was sparsely decorated with strange ornate objects. She had been here before a couple of times before.
"I do apologise for the secrecy, but it was quite necessary." Said Pagani, the mature FOnewm seated before her. He turned to face Hopkins.
"If you'll excuse us, me and the young lady have many important things to discuss."
"I did good didn't I?"
"Yes you did." Said Pagani as he placed a small object into Hopkins' hand.
Hopkins smiled and took a step back. He pressed a button on his forearm panel and vanished.
"A faithful lad but not the brightest star in the sky if you catch my drift. Unlike you of course."
Sue cocked her head to one side.
"I do apologise once more, I forget how direct Hunters would prefer me to be. I am hoping that you will listen to what I have to tell you before you pass any judgement."
With that Sue crossed her arms. "I make no promises." She said coldly.
"Of course not and I would not expect you to. I have followed you throughout your career as a Hunter and would say I know you better than any other person on this ship." He paused.
"Sue... I have something to tell you... I AM your father."