Norman Badeaux's Questionnaire

1. What town or city do you live in? Why do you live there instead of anywhere else? Describe your home.

Link Answered before Norman Badeaux's first Contract.

I call New York City my home. The Big Apple, the city that never sleeps—it's the perfect place for a guy like me. The hustle and bustle, the endless energy, and the diversity of people all make it the ideal spot for Luna Building Maintenance and my other, more... personal activities.

Why New York? Simple. It's the kind of place where you can blend in and stand out all at the same time. Here, I can be the charming, hardworking blue-collar guy during the day, fixing leaks and repairing broken windows. But when night falls, I can become something more—someone who protects those who can't protect themselves. Plus, the city's got its fair share of dark alleys and hidden corners, perfect for when I need to let the wolf out.

My home is a small apartment in Queens. It's nothing fancy, but it's mine. It's a cozy one-bedroom with a decent view of the skyline. I've kept it simple but functional—just the way I like it. The living room has a worn but comfortable couch, a coffee table that's seen better days, and a TV mounted on the wall. The walls are decorated with a mix of old family photos and some of my favorite job sites, a little bit of my history and a testament to my work.

The kitchen is small but well-equipped. I don't cook much, but when I do, I like to make hearty meals that remind me of home back in New Orleans. The bedroom is my sanctuary. The bed is large and comfortable, perfect for those nights when I need to recharge after a long day. There's a small desk in the corner where I do my paperwork and planning, and a closet that's always more organized than you'd expect for a guy like me.

The best part about my apartment, though, is the sense of security it gives me. I've reinforced the doors and windows, and I've got a few hidden surprises for anyone who thinks they can break in. It's my fortress in the middle of the chaos that is New York City. It's not much, but it's home, and it's where I can be myself, whether that's Norman the handyman or Norman the protector.

So, why do I live here? Because New York City is the perfect blend of opportunity and anonymity. It's a place where I can do what I do best—both in my business and in my mission to help the mistreated. And my little apartment, modest as it is, gives me the base I need to keep doing just that.

2. How do you get your money right now? What do you spend it on?

Link 🔞 Answered after Contract 1,
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3. Describe your Ambition. What are you striving for? How far would you go to achieve this? Would you kill for it? How close to death would you come for it?

Link Answered after Contract 1,

My ambition is simple yet fierce: to create a world where fairness prevails, where the weak are protected, and where bullies get what they deserve. Growing up in the rough streets of New Orleans, I saw too much injustice. My childhood was meager—scraping by with hardworking parents who struggled to make ends meet. Good people, like my parents, always seemed to get the short end of the stick while the powerful and the abusive thrived.

I've seen too many abusive husbands and tyrannical bosses taking their misery out on those weaker than them, trying to mask their own powerlessness by exerting control over others. It sickens me. Bullies are the bane of my existence, and I’ve dedicated my life to standing up to them, making sure they can't harm anyone else.

I believe strength exists for one reason: to protect the weak from the hardships of life. That’s what drives me every day, both in my business and in my personal mission. Whether it’s through Luna Building Maintenance or my more covert activities, I strive to make a difference, to level the playing field, and to give the underdogs a fighting chance.

How far would I go to achieve this? As far as it takes. I’ve already risked my life countless times, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. If killing is necessary to protect the innocent and punish the wicked, then yes, I would kill for it. I've taken lives before, and I know I will again if it means creating a safer world for those who can’t defend themselves.

And how close to death would I come? I’ve danced on the edge more times than I can count. Every fight, every confrontation with those who abuse their power, brings me face to face with death. But that’s a risk I’m willing to take. I’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain if it means a world with less suffering, less fear, and more fairness.

In the end, my ambition is driven by a deep-seated hatred of bullies and a burning desire to see justice served. I won’t stop until every last one of them knows what it’s like to be powerless and afraid, and until every person who needs protection knows they have someone they can rely on—someone who will fight for them no matter the cost.

4. What was the most defining event of your life (before signing The Contract), and how did it change you?

Link Answered after Contract 1,

The most defining event of my life happened on a humid summer night in New Orleans, long before I started looking to become a contractor. I was 21 and working odd jobs, trying to scrape together a living. One night, I got a call from a friend, Maria. She was in tears, terrified. Her husband, Frank, had come home drunk and violent, as he often did. But this time, it was worse. He was threatening her with a knife, and she didn’t know where to turn.

I rushed over, heart pounding, knowing I had to do something. When I arrived, I could hear the shouting from outside the small, rundown house. I kicked the door open and saw Frank standing over Maria, who was curled up on the floor, bruised and bleeding. He turned to face me, knife in hand, and I felt a surge of rage and protectiveness like never before.

Frank lunged at me, but I was ready. I tackled him, and we crashed to the floor. The next few moments were a blur of fists and fury. My werewolf instincts kicked in, giving me strength and speed beyond any normal man. I pinned Frank down, and in the heat of the moment, I grabbed the knife from his hand.

As I held the knife, something in me snapped. I saw all the pain and fear he had caused Maria, and I knew I couldn’t let him do it again. I plunged the knife into his chest, once, twice, three times, until he stopped moving. The room was eerily silent, save for Maria's sobs and my own heavy breathing.

In that moment, I realized something profound: the world is full of Franks, and someone has to stand up to them. I felt a strange mix of horror and relief. Horror at what I had done, but relief that Maria was finally safe. That night changed me forever. I understood the power and responsibility that came with my strength. I couldn’t just stand by and watch as good people suffered.

From that day on, I knew my purpose. I became a protector, a guardian for those who couldn’t defend themselves. It set me on the path that eventually led to Luna Building Maintenance and my role as a husband-for-hire. I embraced my werewolf nature, using it to help those in need and punish those who deserved it.

That night taught me that sometimes, you have to become a monster to fight monsters. It was the first time I killed, but it wasn’t the last. Each time, I remember Maria and how she looked at me with gratitude and relief. It keeps me going, knowing that what I do makes a difference, that it saves lives and brings a little more justice into this unfair world.

5. Name and briefly describe three people in your life. One must be the person you are closest to.

Link Answered after Contract 1,
  1. Carlos Ramirez Carlos is one of my closest friends and a true testament to the resilience of the human spirit. He’s a Latino guy, tough and loyal. I met him when he was just a teenager, living under the tyrannical rule of his abusive father. It was one of the first times I intervened in such a situation, and it was Carlos's father that I killed to save him. After that night, I took Carlos under my wing and hired him at Luna Building Maintenance. Over the years, he’s grown from a scared, beaten-down kid into a strong, dependable man. He’s got a natural knack for repairs and a work ethic that’s second to none. Carlos and I have a bond forged in blood and sweat, and I trust him with my life. He’s more than just an employee; he’s family.

  2. Nadia Petrova Nadia is one of the most compassionate people I know. She’s a Russian-American social worker who dedicates her life to helping those in need. We met during one of my husband-for-hire gigs when she reached out to me to help a woman in a dire situation. Nadia and I connected instantly—her fierce dedication to justice mirrored my own. She’s become one of my girlfriends, and our relationship is built on mutual respect and shared values. Nadia’s strength lies in her ability to navigate the bureaucratic mess of social services while never losing sight of the human beings she’s helping. She often assists me in finding those who need protection and support, and her insights have been invaluable.

  3. Rachel Goldberg Rachel is a breath of fresh air in my life. She’s a Jewish barista who works at a cozy coffee shop I frequent. Rachel and I met when I was doing some repair work for the café. Her quick wit and genuine warmth drew me in, and she’s been one of my girlfriends ever since. Rachel has an incredible ability to make people feel seen and heard, and she brings a sense of normalcy and comfort into my chaotic life. Despite her own struggles and the prejudices she faces, she remains kind and optimistic. Rachel is also great at networking and has introduced me to several clients and allies through her connections. She’s a reminder of the simple joys in life and keeps me grounded.

These three people are my "darlings," each playing a crucial role in my life. They represent different aspects of my mission and my heart. With Carlos, I share a bond of brotherhood and survival. Nadia fuels my sense of justice and purpose. Rachel, with her warmth and connections, brings balance and a touch of normalcy. Together, they form the backbone of my support system and drive me to keep fighting for a better world.

6. How was your childhood? Who were your parents? What were they like? Did you attend school? If so, did you fit in? If not, why not?

Link Answered after Contract 1,

My childhood was tough but filled with valuable lessons. Growing up in New Orleans wasn’t easy, but it shaped me into the man I am today. My parents, Jean-Claude and Maria Badeaux, were hardworking folks who did their best to provide for me and my two younger sisters. My father was a dockworker, spending long hours loading and unloading ships. He had the strength of an ox and the patience of a saint, always coming home tired but never too tired to spend time with us. My mother was a housekeeper at a hotel, a job she balanced with taking care of us kids and managing the household.

They were good people, but life wasn’t kind to them. We lived in a small, rundown house in a rough neighborhood. My parents were often taken advantage of by their employers, paid just enough to keep us from starving but never enough to get ahead. Despite their struggles, they instilled in me a sense of right and wrong, a strong work ethic, and the importance of standing up for those who can’t stand up for themselves.

I did attend school, but fitting in was another story. I was always the kid with patched-up clothes and hand-me-downs. The other kids made fun of me, and I quickly learned to defend myself. I got into more than a few fights, often protecting other kids who were being bullied. My grades were average; I wasn’t the smartest kid in the room, but I worked hard and did my best. I had a few friends, mostly other kids from the neighborhood who understood what it was like to go without.

School was more a place of survival than learning for me. The teachers did their best, but the system was overwhelmed, and resources were scarce. I found solace in shop class, where I discovered my knack for working with my hands. It was one of the few places where I felt competent and in control, and it set the stage for my future career in building maintenance.

Looking back, my childhood was a mix of hardship and resilience. My parents taught me the value of hard work and integrity, even when the world seemed unfair. School was a battleground, but it also gave me the skills and determination to carve out a better life. Despite the challenges, or maybe because of them, I learned to stand up for myself and others, a lesson that continues to drive me every day.

7. Have you ever been in love? With who? What happened? If not, why not?

Link Answered after Contract 4, Tower of God

Yes, I've been in love. Her name was Elena Garcia. We met when I was twenty-three, shortly after I moved to New York City. Elena was a nurse, working long hours at a local hospital. She was kind, intelligent, and had a smile that could light up the darkest room. We met at a community center where I was doing some volunteer repair work, and she was helping with a health clinic.

For a while, things were perfect. We made plans to build a life together, dreaming of a future where we could combine our passions for helping people. But life had other plans. Elena's job was demanding, and she often worked double shifts, leaving her exhausted. I was consumed with my own work, both the legitimate side and the more dangerous, clandestine activities. The stress and strain of our separate lives began to take their toll.

Eventually, Elena gave me an ultimatum: choose between her and my mission. It was the hardest decision I've ever had to make. I loved her deeply, but my drive to protect the weak and stand up against injustice was a part of who I am. I couldn't walk away from that, even for her. We parted ways, and it broke my heart.

Since Elena, I've had other relationships with incredible women who understand and support me in ways that fit into my life now. My relationships with Nadia and Rachel are just as meaningful, though different. They respect my mission and have found ways to integrate their lives with mine. Nadia and I share a deep connection through our mutual dedication to helping others and Rachel brings a sense of normalcy and warmth to my life, with her quick wit and genuine care creating a balance I desperately need. Both women understand the complexities of my life and stand by me, making their relationships with me unique and deeply cherished.

In the end, my love for Elena taught me the cost of my commitment to my mission. While it was a painful lesson, it reinforced my resolve to protect those who need it. My relationships with Nadia and Rachel have shown me that love can take many forms and that with the right people, it can thrive even amidst the chaos.

8. What are your worst fears? Why?

Link Answered after Contract 4, Tower of God

My worst fear is losing control and letting the beast inside me hurt the people I care about. I walk a fine line every day, balancing my aggression, my bestial nature, and the need to protect. But the truth is, no matter how much control I think I have, there’s always that chance—just one slip—and everything could come crashing down. The last thing I want is to be the monster in my loved ones’ nightmares.

I’m also scared of becoming the very thing I hate: abusive or overbearing. The people I help, especially the women, are often coming out of toxic situations—abusive husbands, manipulative partners. They’ve been through hell, and the last thing they need is for me to be another controlling figure in their lives. I’m aware of that, so I do my best to be kind, responsible, and respectful. But the fear lingers. What if I push too hard? What if I cross a line I don’t see until it’s too late?

It’s a constant battle, keeping the beast in check and making sure I’m not causing more harm than good. I’m proud of the work I do, of the lives I’ve helped turn around, but the fear of becoming what I despise is always there, lurking in the back of my mind. That’s what keeps me grounded, keeps me careful. I don’t ever want to be the reason someone else suffers.

9. What is (are) your most prized possession(s)? What makes it (them) so special?

Link Answered after Contract 4, Tower of God

When it comes to prized possessions, I don’t really have much in the way of fancy things. My life’s been more about people than objects. But if I had to choose, there are a couple of things that mean the world to me.

First off, my dog. That abused pup I found during the contract in Brazil—he’s been through hell and back, just like me. He’s a reminder that even in the darkest places, you can still find something worth saving. He’s more than just a pet; he’s my companion, my little slice of normalcy in a world that’s anything but normal. When things get rough, knowing he’s around helps keep me grounded.

Then there’s my tool belt. Sounds simple, but it’s got history. That belt has been with me since the early days, back when I was just trying to make ends meet with Luna Building Maintenance. It’s seen countless jobs, fixed more broken things than I can count, and helped me build a reputation as someone who gets things done right. It’s more than just a belt—it’s a symbol of everything I’ve worked for, the blood, sweat, and tears I’ve put into helping people in any way I can.

Lastly, there’s my old revolver. It’s not the fanciest weapon, but it’s reliable, and it’s gotten me through some tough spots. It was my father’s before me, passed down when I first came of age. It reminds me of the man he was—strong, dependable, and always looking out for his family. Carrying it reminds me that no matter what, I’ve got to stay strong for the people who rely on me.

These things aren’t just possessions—they’re pieces of my story, reminders of where I’ve been and what I’m fighting for. They’re special because they keep me grounded, remind me of what really matters, and give me the strength to keep pushing forward.

10. What is the biggest problem in your life right now?

Link Answered after Contract 4, Tower of God

Right now, the biggest problem in my life is keeping the beast in check. Every day, it feels like the line between man and monster gets thinner, and the beast—well, it’s not as easy to control as it used to be. The more I tap into that power, the more it seems to push back, like it wants to take over for good. I’ve built my life around protecting people, but if I lose control, I could become the very thing they need protecting from. That terrifies me.

It’s not just about control, though. There’s this constant tug of war between using the power I’ve got and not letting it consume me. I’m always walking a tightrope. I need the beast to do what I do, but every time I let it out, I can feel it digging its claws in a little deeper. How long before it’s too deep to pull back?

And then there’s the other side of it—what happens when I can’t use the beast? There are contracts where brute force and savagery won’t cut it, where I need to be strategic, careful, and in control. I’m always worrying if the next job will push me past that point of no return. The fear of hurting someone I care about or going too far in a fight is always there, and it weighs on me.

To make matters worse, spending time with the darlings has gotten harder lately. Between the crew, the job, and the constant stream of contracts, it feels like there’s less and less time to just be... normal. I miss the days when I could just hang out, grab a coffee with Rachel, help Nadia with one of her cases, or just relax with Carlos and the guys. The work never really stops, and that’s starting to take a toll. I worry that if I don’t make time for the people who matter, I’ll end up losing them too.

So yeah, keeping the beast in check, balancing that power with who I am, and finding time for the darlings in the middle of all this madness—that’s the biggest problem I’ve got right now. And it’s not one that’s going away anytime soon.

11. Describe a typical morning. How do you get ready to face the world?

Link Answered after Contract 4, Tower of God

Mornings are my quiet time, the calm before the storm. I try to keep them as routine as possible, no matter how crazy life gets. It’s the one part of my day where I’m just Norman—the guy who fixes things, not the guy who tears them apart.

I usually wake up early, before the sun’s even fully up. The first thing I do is check on the dog. He’s always right there, ready to start the day with me. We go for a quick walk around the block, nothing fancy, just enough to stretch our legs and get some fresh air. It’s a grounding moment, a reminder that there’s still normalcy in my life, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

After that, it’s straight to the shower. Hot water helps clear my head, lets me shake off any lingering nightmares from the night before. It’s my reset button, washing away whatever darkness might’ve crept in while I was sleeping. I think a lot in the shower, planning out the day, preparing myself for whatever’s coming.

Once I’m out, it’s time for breakfast. Nothing too complicated—eggs, toast, maybe some coffee if I’m feeling like I need the extra kick. I eat quickly, efficiently. Mornings aren’t for lingering—they’re for getting ready, mentally and physically, to face the world.

Then it’s time to gear up. I grab my tool belt and make sure everything’s in place. It’s not just about the tools—it’s about the mindset. That belt represents the work I do, the lives I’ve built and repaired. Wearing it reminds me that no matter what happens, I’m here to fix things, to make them better.

Before I head out the door, I take a moment to breathe. Just one deep breath to center myself. Sometimes, I’ll look in the mirror, remind myself of who I am, what I stand for. It’s not always easy, but I’ve got people depending on me, and I can’t afford to let them down.

By the time I step outside, I’m ready. The world can throw whatever it wants at me—contracts, fights, chaos—but I’ve got my routine, my purpose, and my people. And that’s enough to keep me moving forward, no matter how dark things get.

12. If you were going somewhere special that you wanted to look your best for, what would you do to prepare? What would you wear? How long would it take you to get ready?

Link Answered after Contract 4, Tower of God

Now, that’s a funny question. I’m bold when it comes to just about anything—fights, contracts, taking down the scumbags of the world—but when it comes to getting dressed up for something fancy? Yeah, that’s a different story. I’ll admit, I get abnormally shy about those kinds of things. It’s not really my scene, and I always feel a bit out of place.

But if I had to prepare for something special, where I needed to look my best, I’d take my time. First off, I’d start with the basics—a long shower, making sure I’m as clean and fresh as possible. I’d probably spend more time than usual making sure everything’s just right. Then I’d trim up the beard, making sure it’s neat, and maybe even throw on some aftershave, just to feel a bit more polished.

Now, clothes—that’s where it gets tricky. I’m used to my work clothes, so dressing up is a challenge. I’d probably go for a tailored suit, something simple but sharp. A dark color, maybe charcoal or navy, because black feels a bit too serious for me. A crisp white shirt, no tie—I’m not a tie guy. I’d make sure the shoes are polished, even if it feels weird wearing anything other than boots or sneakers.

I’d probably second-guess myself the whole time, wondering if I’m overdoing it or underdoing it, but eventually, I’d settle into the look. Once I’m dressed, I’d take a moment to get used to it, maybe do a quick once-over in the mirror to make sure everything’s in place.

How long would it take me? Longer than it should, probably. I’d be overthinking everything, trying to strike the right balance between looking good and not feeling like a total imposter in fancy clothes. But once I’m ready, I’d push past the shyness, step out the door, and remind myself that no matter what, I’ve faced scarier things than a fancy night out.

When all’s said and done, it’s not about the clothes—it’s about showing up for the people who matter, making sure they know I’m there, even if I feel a bit out of place. That’s what gets me through the fancy stuff—knowing it’s just another way to show I care, even if it makes me sweat a little more than a good old-fashioned brawl ever could.

13. What will you do for your next birthday?

Link Answered after Contract 4, Tower of God

Honestly, I’m a simple guy. I don’t need much for my birthday. If everything goes to plan, I’ll keep it low-key. First off, I’ll probably have a little get-together at the company. Nothing big, just a casual thing with the crew—maybe order some good food, share a few drinks, and just enjoy the company of the people who’ve got my back. My team’s like family, and spending time with them, especially on a day like that, means a lot. Plus, it’s always fun to kick back and relax with the folks who usually see me knee-deep in chaos.

Then, if I’m lucky, I’ll head home for a smaller, more intimate celebration with the ladies—Rachel, Nadia, and whoever else is around. I’d keep it simple, maybe cook something nice or grab takeout. A quiet night, just us enjoying each other’s company, no pressure, no contracts hanging over our heads. That’s the kind of thing that makes me feel grounded.

At the end of the day, it’s not about the party or making a big deal out of it. It’s about the people I’m with, the ones who’ve stuck by me through thick and thin. That’s what matters most to me—spending time with the people who make this life worth living. So yeah, that’s the plan. A little time with the crew, a little time at home, and just appreciating the good things in life.

14. What is your greatest regret?

Link Answered after Contract 5, This is a lot

My greatest regret? Giving too many second chances and the benefit of the doubt. It’s funny, considering the fact that I’ve got more blood on my hands than most, but I’ve always tried to make sure people are guilty before condemning them. You’d think being a serial killer would mean less hesitation, but no—I keep trying to see the best in people, hoping that maybe, just maybe, they’ve got some good left in them.

At this point, it’s becoming a real pain in the ass. How many times have I given someone a second chance, only for them to screw it up and make things worse? Too many. And each time, it’s like a punch to the gut. I let people go, give them the space to change, and what do they do? They dig their own graves even deeper. And here I am, left to clean up the mess.

I try to be fair, to make sure they’re really guilty before I take that final step. But it’s a complicated process, one that causes more headaches than it’s worth. I get caught up in the details, trying to justify every action, every decision, when deep down, I already know the truth.

Maybe if I wasn’t so focused on giving people chances they don’t deserve, I could just end things cleanly and move on. But that’s not who I am. I’ve got this annoying habit of trying to make the world better, even if it means holding out hope for the hopeless. And that’s my greatest regret—believing people can change when, most of the time, they don’t.

15. What is the nature of your Gifts? Are they inherent potential? Do harbingers just grant your wishes?

Link Answered after Contract 5, This is a lot

Truth is, I don’t really know for sure where my Gifts come from. I’ve thought about it plenty, but there’s no clear answer. What I do believe, though, is that those Gift coins don’t just grant random powers—they seem to take something from deep inside me, something primal, and push me down an evolutionary path based on my feelings and desires.

It’s not like I ask for these powers outright. They just... show up. I’ll usually learn about them after the fact, like a natural extension of who I already am. All of my powers seem connected to the Eldritch Beast, that monstrous part of me that I can’t fully control. Some of these abilities only surface when I’m transformed, when the beast is in charge. Then there’s the tattoos. The arcane markings on my arms and torso, they’re part of the puzzle too. They’re not just for show. I don’t remember getting them, but they seem to grow and shift as I gain more powers, almost like they’re part of the process. They tie into the beast, the Gifts, everything.

So, no, I don’t think harbingers are just out here granting wishes. My Gifts feel more like a reflection of who I am at the core—rage, protection, power—and they evolve alongside me, in ways I can’t fully control or predict. Whether that’s a blessing or a curse, I haven’t figured out yet. But I know one thing: whatever these Gifts are, they’re shaping me into something... else. Something more.

16. How do you feel about spirituality? Are you religious? What do you believe?

Link Answered after Contract 6, Fill In The Blanks

I wouldn’t call myself religious. Never been the kind of guy who follows any specific dogma or spends time in a church. But I do believe there’s more to life than just what we see. Call it spirituality, call it karma—whatever it is, I’ve learned over the years that the way you live, the things you believe in, and the way you treat people? It comes back around.

Growing up in Louisiana, I was mostly raised by my grandmother. She was an old Catholic woman, real traditional. Rosary beads, saints on every shelf, and mass every Sunday like clockwork. She’d talk about God and redemption, and while I respected her faith, I never fully connected with it. But what did stick with me was the idea that your actions shape your life, long term. Maybe it’s not heaven and hell, but there’s a balance to things. You can’t just go through life screwing people over and expect things to go smoothly forever. At some point, it catches up to you.

I guess in that way, I’m spiritual. I believe the energy you put out—the way you treat others, the choices you make—it shapes the path you walk. The beast inside me is proof enough that things aren’t just black and white. You can’t escape the consequences of your actions, no matter how hard you try. You carry your choices with you, and they mess with your availability, your energy, your outlook on life.

I don’t follow a book or pray to anything specific, but I live by a code. I try to do right by the people who need it and protect the ones who can’t protect themselves. I know I’ve got my demons—literal and figurative—and I know that if I don’t keep them in check, they’ll drag me down. That’s as close as I get to religion.

So no, I’m not religious, but I do believe in something bigger, something that keeps the balance. You treat people right, fight for what’s good, and it’ll keep you grounded. Cross that line too many times, though, and you’ll feel the weight of it, whether you believe in God or not.

17. How do the events of the Contracts conflict with your worldview? How do you react when everything you thought was true is put in doubt?

Link Answered after Contract 6, Fill In The Blanks

The Contracts? They’re where I learn who I really am. Each one pushes me to my limits, not just physically but mentally. They’re the place where I develop myself, sure, but they’re also a testing ground for my beliefs and the strength of my convictions. I’ve always believed in standing up for the little guy, putting bullies in the ground where they belong, and these Contracts? They throw some of the worst offenders my way.

Here’s the thing, though—what I thought was true? It gets turned on its head constantly. I’ve seen things in these Contracts that make me question everything I thought I knew about the world, about people, about what’s right and wrong. But here’s the deal: I don’t get shaken by that. I expect it now. The world isn’t black and white, and neither am I.

Some people might call me inconsistent. Hell, I know I’m a hypocrite half the time. I’ll preach about protecting people while tearing someone apart with my bare hands. And I’m fine with that. I don’t need to be consistent or clean or morally pure. What matters to me is that, at the end of the day, I’ve kept regular people safe. If that means I’ve got to break a few of my own rules or make choices that would’ve shocked the younger version of me, so be it.

These Contracts are messy, and they’re brutal. I’ve had to face down my own worst instincts and still come out swinging. But that’s the job. It’s not about holding onto some perfect worldview—it’s about adapting, about figuring out who I am when everything I thought was true falls apart.

In the end, as long as I’m still standing, as long as I’m keeping people safe, the rest doesn’t matter.

18. Give a brief description of the other Contractors you see often. What do you like or dislike about them?

Link Answered after Contract 7, Fire In The Sky

Most of the contractors I used to run with? Well, they’re not around anymore. Dead, gone, whatever. It’s a brutal line of work. But lately, I’ve been meeting some new faces, and they’ve stuck with me more than most.

First, there’s Liv. Beautiful lady, talented and gentle. She’s got this calmness about her, a strength that doesn’t need to shout to be noticed. Liv’s a straight shooter, which I respect a lot—no games, no drama, just honesty. In a world full of liars and manipulators, that’s something I can admire. We’ve worked well together, and she’s someone I’d trust to have my back in a tight spot.

Then there’s Wren. Funny thing is, she looks a lot like Liv, but personality-wise? Complete opposite. Duplicitous, backstabbing—she’s got all the tricks of someone who’s been playing the long con for a while. And yet, somehow, she likes me. We’ve got this strange chemistry, and I can’t quite put my finger on it. It’s like we vibe, despite knowing she’s not someone you’d ever want to turn your back on. There’s something there, and as much as I don’t trust her, I can’t say I dislike her either.

Finally, there’s Kanni. She’s solid—great gal, no nonsense. We’ve worked together on buildings and renovations, and she’s been a real help in expanding Luna Maintenance and Construction out to Seattle and the West Coast. I owe her for that opportunity, and it’s been good working alongside someone who knows the value of hard work and loyalty. We’ve got a strong professional connection, and I respect her a hell of a lot.

These three? They’re a mixed bag, but they’re the ones I see the most now, and in this line of work, you learn to appreciate the ones who stick around.

19. Describe the perfect room.

Link Answered after Contract 7, Fire In The Sky

If I had to design the perfect room, it’d be all about simplicity and comfort—nothing fancy, just the essentials for a working man. First off, you’d walk in and see a pool table dead center. I love a good game to unwind, and there’s nothing better for breaking the ice with friends or contractors after a long day.

On one side, I’d have a large fridge, fully stocked with cold cuts and beer—ready for anyone who drops by. There’s an oven in the corner, with a fresh batch of hot wings always in the works. Something about the smell of wings makes any room feel like home.

Then I’d want a small table with a stack of books, right next to a comfy reading chair. I don’t get much downtime, but when I do, I like to read—something gritty and real, nothing too highbrow. There’s gotta be a bar, too. Not a big, flashy setup—just a few base spirits and the right modifiers to mix some solid pre-prohibition cocktails. Keep it simple, but good.

And, of course, space. I need a large area where I can work on cars, projects, whatever I’m messing with at the time. It’s where I get my hands dirty, where I feel grounded. Throw in a good stereo system to keep the tunes rolling, and you’ve got the perfect vibe.

That’s it. No frills, just a room where I can unwind, work, and spend time with the people that matter. Simple, just the way I like it.