Another job complete, another contract fulfilled. Astrid's lungs burned from exertion and smoke inhalation, but it was good to get into the cool night air, away from the conflagration she'd left behind her. Her head pounded with every heartbeat, still high on epinephrine, and the radiating pain in her chest. Those weren't too bad, her vest protected her from the worst of it. No, it was her arm that stabbed through the haze of red in her eyes. She gritted her teeth and kept walking. The client would pay for medical costs, and considering the problem she just troubleshot for them, they'd have plenty of cash to spare. Sirens blared, firemen rushing to contain the flames. They might just be able to save the building, but it was far too late for the men inside and the research they were working on. The rat kept her head down and kept walking, letting the rain wash away her heat and rage and blood.

Sequel to this piece!

Art by themefinland
Astrid © HelzimGiger

Original art can be found here.

Some MORE thematically appropriate music.