Pathless
In the desolate slums of the Ninth Ring, survival is a daily struggle for Vyke, a 15-year-old orphan scraping by on scraps and street fights. Taken in by Ratchet, the gruff but well-meaning owner of an auto repair shop, Vyke has spent his life dodging gangs and dreaming of a way out. But despite Ratchet’s care, Vyke finds himself entangled in dangerous situations, including repeated beatings by Rusty's gang, while contributing little in return.
With little patience left, Ratchet finally gives Vyke an ultimatum: it's time to stand on his own. Leveraging some old connections, Ratchet secures Vyke a job near the edge of town, giving him a rare opportunity to escape the cycle of violence and poverty. Although the prospect of independence is daunting, Vyke knows he must take this chance or be left with nothing.
On the eve of his departure, Vyke discovers a strange, high-quality knife in the junkyard—an object far too refined for the slums. It's a glimpse of something from the upper levels, a world far beyond his reach. Vyke hides the knife, unsure of its origin, but certain it could change his fate.
As Vyke’s final days at the repair shop unfold, he reflects on his years of mooching off Ratchet and the two brothers, Arny and Barny. His bond with them, especially Ratchet, is deeper than he wants to admit, but the time has come to sever those ties.
