Chapter One
Prologue: A Few Words
I did not have an education. I did not have a family. I did not have a job. I did not have a place to call my own or a friend I can really trust.
I was taught on the streets of Seattle. My family were the squatters in the alley. My job was trying to survive. My friends were crooks, thieves, and murderers. This is where I lived. This is where I am.
I am in the Shadows of the Sixth World. These shadows are my home. They are my future. I sell my knowledge and skills to those who want them. I perform the tasks I am told to do. I think not why I do them. Why? Because I'm not paid to. I am always willing to go forth. Why? Because this is part of where I live. I am always willing to do what ever it takes. Why? Because I have to.
I have seen the wonders of the Sixth World. I have seen the magic dance across the sky. I have seen dragons fly off in the sunset. I have seen spirits walk across the street. I have seen the electronic majesty of the Matrix and the towering structures of light and steel. I have seen the face of humanity change.
I have made wonders of the Sixth World. I am one with the magic that dances across the sky. I have talked with the dragons that fly into the sunset. I have called the spirits that walk across the street. I have danced in the majesty of the Matrix and stood in the towers of light and steel. I am part of humanity's changed face.
I have seen the horrors of the Sixth World. I have seen a baby cry. I have seen children die. I have watched people suffer and seen them tortured. I have watched sacrifices be made that would bring tears to anyone's eyes.
I have brought the horrors into the Sixth World. I have made babies cry. I have made childrne die. I have made people suffer under torture. I have made sacrifices that bring tears to my eyes.
Why do I do this? Why do I watch it pass? Why do I build these things? Why do I carry on?
The answer is simple.
I am a Shadowrunner.
And I have no choice.