Falling Stars

Chapter-10 : Shadow Of a Serial Killer

After the triumphant return from their mission, Gabriel felt an overwhelming sense of pride and relief. The superplasma star explosion had been neutralized, and Earth was safe for now. The team enjoyed a few well-deserved days off, reuniting with family and friends, but the wheels of the Celestial Elimination Department never stopped turning.

Gabriel was back at headquarters, catching up on the endless stream of reports and updates when a memo caught his eye. It was marked "Confidential" and addressed to senior staff. As he opened it, his heart sank.

The memo announced the hiring of a new member to the department: a man named Vincent Kane. Gabriel's blood ran cold. He knew that name all too well. Kane was a notorious serial killer whose capture had been a major case during Gabriel's time as a police officer. He had been behind bars for years, but now, it seemed, he was being brought into their fold.

Gabriel stormed into Commander Torres's office, the memo clutched in his hand. "Commander, what the hell is this?"

Torres looked up from his desk, his expression unreadable. "Gabriel, I was expecting you. Sit down."

Gabriel remained standing, his anger barely contained. "How can you hire Vincent Kane? He's a monster!"

Torres sighed, rubbing his temples. "I understand your feelings, Gabriel, but let me explain. Kane has been working with a special division in exchange for a reduced sentence. His expertise in certain areas has proven invaluable. The higher-ups believe his skills could benefit our operations."

Gabriel couldn't believe what he was hearing. "He's a murderer, Torres. How can you trust him?"

Torres met Gabriel's gaze, his voice firm. "We don't trust him, Gabriel. But we believe in using every resource available to protect our planet. Kane is under strict supervision. One misstep, and he's back behind bars."

Gabriel felt a mix of rage and helplessness. "This is a mistake, Commander. I know Kane. He's manipulative and dangerous. He can't be trusted."

Torres nodded. "I appreciate your concerns, Gabriel. I really do. But this decision has been made at the highest levels. We have to make the best of it."

Gabriel left Torres's office, his mind racing. How could they bring a killer into their team? And worse, how would Amelia react when she found out?

As he walked down the hall, he ran into Amelia, who immediately noticed his troubled expression. "Gabriel, what's wrong?"

He handed her the memo, watching as her eyes widened in shock. "Vincent Kane? Are they serious?"

Gabriel nodded, his jaw clenched. "I don't know how they can justify it, but it's happening. And there's something you should know. Kane and I have... history."

Amelia's eyes softened with concern. "What kind of history?"

Gabriel took a deep breath, the memories flooding back. "Kane was a case I worked on years ago. He was a serial killer, targeting young women. It took months to catch him, and when we finally did, I testified at his trial. I saw the devastation he caused, the lives he destroyed. I never thought I'd have to face him again."

Amelia placed a comforting hand on his arm. "Gabriel, this is insane. We need to keep a close eye on him. We can't let him cause any more harm."

Gabriel nodded, grateful for her support. "Agreed. We'll have to be vigilant. I just hope the higher-ups know what they're doing."

---

A week later, Vincent Kane arrived at the Celestial Elimination Department. Gabriel watched from a distance as the man he had once put behind bars was introduced to the team. Kane's demeanor was calm and composed, but Gabriel could see the calculating look in his eyes.