Zealot opened the door and stared into the darkness.

It was always dark in Father's office. Zealot wasn't sure why – such an edict did not exist. One of the perks of the title, he guessed – the ability to remain unknown, to be nothing more then a whispered name, a fleeting thought. Zealot stood at the doorway, hands folded in respect, waiting until he was named.

"Enter, Solon."

Zealot smiled as he stepped forward. Father had chosen a worthy name for him this time. Solon, the wise and skillful lawgiver…Zealot already knew his job would be judgment. "You asked for me, Father?"

He heard a slight rustling, and it was clear that Father had stood up. "Yes, Zealot Solon. Word has reached me that you claim to have a power…"

Zealot nodded. "Yes, and what I claim is true, as you have heard today and in the days before."

"And how do you know the truth of your power?"

"I received a vision, and Deus gave me his blessing."

"As I give you ours." Father sat back down again. "You have a gift, Zealot Solon, and I want you to use that gift. On the desk before you is a leather sheath. Take it."

Zealot reached out his hand and found the object. "I have it, Father. How may I use this item?"

"It's a dagger, my son. It has the same taste for Demon blood that you do. Take it, and keep it with you always. It shall help you in the times ahead."

"Yes, I understand," Zealot said as he drew the shining blade.

"A warning, though. The blade is partly Demon itself, so do not let it cut you, lest you be corrupted."

He quickly sheathed the blade and stuck the pouch inside his robes.  "Yes, Father. I understand. Where shall I hunt?"

"Have you ever heard of the Manji clan?"

"No Father. What is it?"

"It is a family of ungodliness. Isao Manji, the Father of the clan, must be slain. Find him and rid the world of his evil. Kill every Demon you sense."

Zealot nodded and backed out of the room. "Yes, Father…."