Damn, I might actually finish this story! Weird. It’s been rattling along in my head for so long…
I never cared for the night watch. There is more order during the day. People do not interfere with each other as much. This suits me. The gloom is different at night, too; chilly, and weak. I had to wear an extra shirt under my Guardian tunic and longcoat. Those who like that kind of gloom are not to my taste, either. Even the Guardians who prefer to work the night act strangely, all too ready to allow their enthusiasms to distract them. Many nocturnal disturbances of the peace are resolved when a pursuing Guardian gets distracted from the chase. But I thought one night would not hurt, and it was a favor to Jak. Favors were valuable things to have. It was rare when his impulses led him to think things through, or plan for misfortune; it was in my own interests to encourage him to do more of that.
At least, that was what I told myself as I trudged through the darkened streets. I even believed it; my thoughts were different, then. The idea that I might have been willing to help someone, for no reward? Surely I would have laughed at that!
Surely.
The first I heard that things were amiss was when the iron bells started their clamour. The bell of a Guardian can be heard anywhere in Seacity, and they ring until help arrives. I could hear first one, then another, then a dozen, all calling — and all in the direction of the Razor District. I ran towards their sound, for I had no choice. I was a Guardian, summoned by the bells, whether I wished it or not. No one can say that I wished to. No one.