Chapter 23: The Missing Gloves
"Beastcorp is glad to see you alive."
Jethro’s face twisted slightly, assessing the man standing before him. His clothing was a design of corporal menace, consisting of a suit made from carbon-black fabric, hanging long and sharp on his muscular frame. His biceps threatened to bulge out of the sleeves, but were held firm by the strong fabric, and his palms were replaced with bionic fists, resting on the hilt of a slender, high-density aether blade.
Apart from his terrifying 6’7 build, his face— or lack thereof —was what stilled Jethro.
A smooth and contoured black helmet covered his entire head. It had a somewhat triangular shape. Upside down with very short rectangular horns poking out on top. A thin visor sliced around the eye area, and spilling beneath the helm was long strands of metallic-black hair, falling over his mighty broad shoulders.
"Are they now?" Jethro said cautiously. "You’re not exactly a welcoming face."
The man stood emotionless for a moment, not that Jethro could tell from that rigid mask. "I apologize for my threatening appearance. Unfortunately, there is nothing I can do in that regard."
Jethro let out a sigh. This guy didn’t sound so bad. He leaped onto the bed and sat, easing himself into a more comfortable posture. "So. What do you want? If it’s the health bill... eh, you’re going to have to add it to my queue. I’m not so great on credits right now."
"You do not have to worry about that. Your care here has been provided by Beastcorp itself, there are no bills."
Jethro snapped his head at him. "Really?" He seemed rather surprised, taking another look at his reflection only left him wondering even more. ’A procedure like this would’ve caused millions back in my world.’
Realizing the masked man was still standing and watching, he slowly turned his direction. "So you all must want something then."
The man remained still. "The situation is intense. Because of this, President Velara Ardent wishes to speak to you. Ask you a few questions."