Chapter 20: The Interrupted Assassination

Daniel was brought to this world by surprise. He was born and grew up on Earth, but through a strange magical ritual, he appeared in a world that seemed to have been spawned from the imaginings of a fantasy writer. However, he was delivered into the world without the expected benefits being summoned is supposed to provide. He doesn’t even have magic, which is a part of nature in the world he’s in now.

He has stayed afloat using his knowledge of modern troubleshooting and repair techniques, as well as several modern technologies that didn’t exist prior to him, and which he could find ways to develop.

And now, he’s lying on the floor of one of his fellow personnel on the fort blocking one of the few ways through the mountains separating the demons from the Allied Kingdoms. If it stopped there, it would just be another day in the military for him.

However, this comrade is a gatonine woman who, until very recently, vehemently expressed disgust for his very existence. Yet, the story gets stranger, were Daniel telling the story.

They managed to get Gwenesphia to sleep on Treia’s bed, and Treia had intended to keep watch or simply relax, since she’s a night shift watchstander, and would be awake when Daniel and Gwenesphia are asleep.

However, Treia is the one laying against Daniel’s chest, fast asleep. She had a good cry after seeing her memory crystal device repaired, and even Gwenesphia remarked on how clear and smooth the voices were. Daniel suspects that Treia’s sonic crystal was broken long before she dropped it, and it was working because it was still conductive. However, Daniel also cushioned the crystal so it wouldn’t rattle or buzz against the metals of the frame. Given that another person remarked on it, Daniel suspects that everyone simply accepts the hollow sound of voices recorded, like old recordings on vinyl records.

Daniel shifts a little, and Treia stirs. She opens her eyes, noticing Daniel looking at her. She instantly sits up with a tense posture. “D-Daniel! G-Good morning. I was… This wasn’t what you think…”

Daniel sighs. “I don’t think anything. Thanks for sheltering me.”

She blushes, asking, “W-Wh-Wh-...?”

“Your room?”

She flinches. “Oh! R-Right. Of course.” She looks away, saying softly, “I promised to repay you. I will.”

“Right, right. I know.” He climbs to his feet, stretching. Gwenesphia is fast asleep, and she looks exactly like one would expect, given her biological state at the moment. Her tail is flipping slowly back and forth, drawing attention to the posture she’s sleeping in.

Daniel asks, “Will she be alright?”

Treia confirms softly. “Yes. It’s a natural cycle we go through. She can still function. She just gets dulled senses in the presence of a man. Particularly one she has affection for.” She crosses her arms. “I hope I don’t have to explain further.”

“I got it. Thank you. Do you mind watching over her? I’ll make my way out first so no one catches me leaving your room.”

She replies with a gentle nod. “A-alright. I agree.”

Daniel heads for the door, putting his boots on. However, as he reaches for the door, a small tug pulls at his shirt’s back. He looks, and Treia averts her eyes. “Listen… B-Be careful… I don’t know if anyone else is part of it.”

“Thank you, Treia. I’m sorry for causing you worry.”

She whirls, looking away. “I’m not concerned about YOU! I just… You’re an important asset, since you can fix magic devices. It’d be stupid to let you get hurt-KILLED-. To let you get killed, is what I meant.”

Daniel chuckles, but he doesn’t poke fun at her. She’s being defensive because she doesn’t want to express what she’s actually thinking or feeling. He’s not sure what they are, but she’s hiding her feelings all the same. 

“I’ll be careful. You be careful, too. I’m concerned for your safety by helping me.”

She spins with rosy cheeks. “Wh-Wha…!?”

Daniel smiles and nods. He leaves the room and heads for the common area of the base. From there, he gets water and stops by the Quartermaster to get his rations for the day. Then, he makes his way to the office building to wait for Commander Leiwelles to arrive. He yawns a little from some residual exhaustion, but he feels pretty good overall.

Eventually, Commander Leiwelles makes her way in. Other than when he met with her following her bath, she’s in a relatively dressed-down state; her hair isn’t pulled into a neat bun, and she has her uniform mantle haphazardly draped on her shoulder instead of straightened and tied off to her jacket in a proper manner. She remarks with seemingly no interest, “Daniel. Bright and early. As I would expect.”

Daniel nods politely. “Commander. Good morning.” He salutes her, and she replies, “At ease. Anything to report?”

He replies as he follows her into her office, “Nothing pressing, Commander. But, would you have time to do a room inspection today? The more thorough, the better.”

She looks at him skeptically, her hands behind her head as she works on her hair. “On whose room?”

“My own. I refrained from returning to it last night because I believe someone broke in.”

“Why do you think that?”

“Simple things. Scratches around the keyhole, a lighter smell in the room than it was when I left; similar to a different or more expensive soap than what I use… That sort of thing.”

She cocks her head. “Do you have a suspect?”

“No, Commander. I was wondering if this world has… uh… ways of determining that. We called it ‘{Forensics}’. Finding hairs, fingerprints, blood,... any clues that can uniquely identify who it was.”

“We have a couple investigation specialists here at the Garden. You seem awfully calm, though.”

“I have very little of value, Commander. I also have a room where no one would look for me for a long time, I suspect.”

“Mmm… Are you accusing my fort of containing ally slayers?”

“No Commander. I am fairly confident I’m not viewed as an ally by most of the fort.”

She scowls at him for a moment, but he keeps a respectful tone and posture. He adds, “I don’t know if anyone has murderous intent. But, I would like to find out if someone did in fact break in.”

Commander Leiwelles sighs, dropping her facade. “I have heard a rumor. However, I have an idea for a solution.”

“I’m listening.”

“Are you familiar with ‘Trial by Combat’?”

“Sort of. It was a concept in my world. An ancient and outdated one, but no less known to me. I fight against the other individual or a representative to prove my innocence.”

With an affirming nod, Leiwelles explains, “Mostly accurate. In this case, we’ll be determining which of you is right and protected by the gods.”

Daniel chuckles. “We might as well skip to the execution, then. I’m pretty sure they don’t have any feelings for me. I’m not even a shadow in the annals of their subconscious.”

She scoffs. “You can be surprisingly refined when you choose to be, can’t you? Regardless, more will be learned this way than by mere investigation. Do you accept?”

Daniel agrees with little reluctance. “Why not? If you think this will work, then I’ll do it.”

She nods as she confirms. “I do. Let’s go.”

*********************

Treia jogs out into the common area of the fort, where a large crowd of off-duty soldiers are gathered. Commander Leiwelles is up on the announcing stage with Daniel standing next to her. She waits a little longer as the crowd grows a little more.

“My beautiful Flowers of the legendary Flower Garden! Hear this! I have grown tired of the complaints and the suspicion! Let us end this farce once and for all. Daniel of the Otherworld shall face trial by combat! Let his innocence or guilt be proven by his strength and the shade of his blood!”

The warriors of the fort, mostly women, but the few men as well, cheer. Only a couple remain silent; Treia and Gwenesphia. They share a glance with each other, nervous about the immediate future.

Leiwelles declares, “I need a volunteer; someone who will ensure a fair and thorough trial.”

A few hands go up, and Treia flinches. Daniel hasn’t shown himself to have any real combat ability. He’s never held a weapon, and he’s never sparred with anyone -mainly because most of them would kill him ‘accidentally’-. In this case, it seems like Leiwelles is INTENTIONALLY courting his death.

The Commander studies the hands for a moment. She perks up, “Ah! Bellstram! How about you?”

A shiver runs up Treia’s spine. Daniel has met an undue level of hostility since coming to Fort Peony, but one person is highly suspected to have actually attempted to kill him once already, and plotted to do so a second time more recently. Now, the Commander, knowing this, has chosen Bellstram for a battle -potentially to the death- involving Daniel.

Just before Treia can call out, Gwenesphia exclaims, “Commander!”

Leiwelles looks at the lieutenant with her icy gaze. “What is it, Lieutenant? If Daniel truly is innocent of his crimes, as you believe, he will be able to persevere.”

“That’s… Daniel’s not…” Gwenesphia struggles to put her thoughts into words. Technically, she shouldn’t know about Bellstram, since Bellstram still thinks only Treia knows anything.

Treia hesitates, unable to call out. She closes her eyes, trying to summon the courage to take a stand for someone she admittedly misunderstood.

Treia blurts out without thinking, “Commander! The gods do not reside on the battlefield of mortals! There will be no divine protection here. And, Daniel was forsaken by the gods when he was sentenced here. If you think so lowly of him, why bother with this? Just kill him and be done.” She flinches when she realizes what all she just said. She believes it all to be true, but taken the wrong way…

Leiwelles smirks. “Oh? That’s an interesting take, Sergeant. Looking after your comrade, Bellstram, are you? I suppose you bring a valid point.”

“N-No, that’s… I meant…”

“Perhaps, Daniel, you would agree to saving us all some time, yes?”

Daniel glances at Treia, and it causes her to flinch. She tries to object, but the words stick in her throat. Daniel then looks at Leiwelles, and then down at the ground. “I’d prefer to take my chances, Commander.”

Leiwelles smirks. “Very well. Trial by combat it is. Bellstram will be the opponent.”

Bellstram draws her sword with a smirk. Daniel could use a weapon if he had one, but he doesn’t. They face each other on the ground in a large circle formed by the soldiers of the fort. Leiwelles explains from the stage, “Innocence or guilt will be determined by incapacitation or death. The accused may surrender and confess at any time. All skills and weapons belonging to either party may be used.”

Treia watches in horror. It’s descending out of control. Daniel doesn’t stand a chance. Bellstram swings her sword to loosen her joints and check her armor’s fitting. Daniel simply assumes a ready brawler’s stance -a complete amateur, considering his lack of fear-.

She twitches.

Treia starts to call out, “Daniel! You have to…”

The bell for the west gate starts chiming loudly, drowning out the cheers for the impending fight. Everyone looks, and in the sky, there rests three stars in the middle of the day.

However, guiding beacons of the night, these are not. They are a communication from the scouting regiment belonging to the reconnaissance teams much further into demon territory than the controlled zone.

And, the colors of these flares, lingering in the sky, reveal the threat that must be communicated as soon as possible. With three red flares, there’s only one possibility.

Commander Leiwelles murmurs during a lull in the chiming of the bells, “Dragons…”

****************

The fort’s alarms are raised. Three flares in the sky seem to have told everyone what they needed to know. And, immediately following, the base descended into a form of controlled chaos. However, contrary to what Daniel might have expected, the base is not bolstering defenses in preparation to defend. They are making preparations to evacuate.

Daniel is surprised, to say the least, and he manages to catch Treia, asking, “What’s going on?”

She explains, “Dragons! Dragons are coming.”

“What about defending…?”

“Are you crazy!? We’re pulling back to the main garrison, where there might be enough firepower to stop them. But, as it is, we will barely slow them down. It’s how it has to be. Get what you can’t live without, Daniel, and hurry to a cart.” Treia helps organize evacuations, while Daniel finds Leiwelles, similarly directing troops.

She spots him, stating, “Now’s not the time. Prepare to evacuate, Daniel.”

He shakes his head. “Commander, I think I’ll stay.”

She looks at him.

“I have secretly been preparing some… ‘spells’ from my world. Maybe they can’t stop a dragon, but let me at least try.”

“It’s futile, Daniel. Dragons can withstand a siege.”

“You were about to have me slain, Commander. Allow me to choose how I die. Final request.”

She hesitates, looking away. She murmurs, barely audible over the uproar, “I wasn’t trying to have you slain.” She sighs. “Set your otherworldly traps and prepare to-...”

“It’s not that simple. I’ll have to remain present at least long enough to see the enemy. Once I’ve confirmed success or failure, I’ll retreat.”

“Why should I believe you won’t simply surrender to the enemy?”

“I was brought here as a prisoner. The only intel I would have to sell is on this fort, which you’re about to abandon. Otherwise, I’m the weakest human in this world, possessing no magic. Give me a chance.”

She sighs. “Very well. Do what you want, Daniel. We’ll leave an extra mount for you to catch up.”

He nods gratefully in agreement.

“Leave two!” shouts Gwenesphia as she jogs up, having overheard enough of the conversation. “I’ll stay with Daniel.”

Daniel turns to the lieutenant, thinking quickly. She smiles at him, saying tenderly, “I won’t abandon you…”
“Gwen… Please go.”

She blushes. “G-Gwen?”

He smiles tenderly. “Don’t you remember? What we did last night?”

Her eyes widen, and she tries to think. She squeaks, “W-We just… We only…”

He whispers, “I need you to be safe, Gwen. You and them…” He touches her abdomen gently, and she squirms lightly, but she takes his hand for a moment. She gets what he’s saying, but she doesn’t remember.

He kisses her gently, adding softly, “I promise I’ll come back and give them siblings, but… Please go. I can’t protect you and enact my plan.”

She hesitates, but she blushes. “I… I don’t…”

Daniel sighs. “I was afraid of that… I guess it wasn’t that memorable…”

She flinches, but says, “D-Daniel, I…” She pouts, but she says tenderly, “K-Keep your promise, Daniel… I won’t forgive you if you don’t.”
He reassures her gently, “I will. Please go with the evacuation. I’ll catch up.”

She nods reluctantly, joining one of the carriages.

Daniel and the Commander share a glance, and she gives a subtle nod as her silent blessing.

Daniel bows his head just as subtly, and he jogs to his own room. He needs to gather his gear.

As the last of the carts and horse-like mounts are leaving the fort, Daniel finds Treia arguing with the last cart, on which is the Commander. “I’m not leaving! I have my own reasons to stay!”

“Daniel’s methods don’t require help, Sergeant! Get in!”

Daniel jogs up, carrying his rifle and shoulder bag full of ammunition and explosives. “What’s going on?”

Treia replies, “Daniel, I’m going to stay. I told you I owe you an unpayable debt. And, if a cowardly otherworlder is going to make a stand, what would I be if I fled?”

Daniel replies, “Intelligent?”

She glares at him, and he sighs. “Listen, I don’t need help, and I’ll be catching up as quickly as I can. Please just leave me behind.”

“No.”

Daniel glances at Leiwelles, who is hesitant. Daniel is relatively expendable, or he’s the only one who stands a chance. Those are the two options Leiwelles is weighing for him. For anyone else, she doesn’t want to waste their lives.

And, on that, he and she agree.

Daniel turns Treia by the shoulder, saying, “Commander, I’m afraid it’s come to this. If she insists…”

Treia straightens her posture, believing for that moment that she convinced him.

However, he throws his weight onto her, pinning her to the ground. He wrestles her arms as she shrieks at him, “DANIEL!? WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?”

He manages to pull her arms behind her, tying them, and then he uses the same rope he pulled from his bag to bind her legs, sashing them together to hogtie her and completely immobilize the flexible feline woman. She squirms violently and snarls out threats and demands, but Daniel ignores them.

Once she can’t escape, he stands up, saying to the Commander, “Please forgive this indignity, Commander. She’s being irrational.”

She sighs and nods, hopping down to help him load Treia into the cart. “YOU CAN’T DO THIS! DANIEL! DANIEL DON’T DO THIS! LET ME HELP YOU! YOU BASTARD!”

Daniel pets her head once she’s in the cart. “Treia… Thank you for everything. I know I couldn’t lie to you and get you to go. Please, understand. I want you to be safe. Tell Lieutenant Gwenesphia that I’m sorry I deceived her. If I make it through this, I’ll accept punishment.” He smiles at her, and her eyes go wide with horror. “COMMANDER! COMMANDER, PLEASE! DON’T DO THIS!”

Leiwelles hesitates. She stands up, holding out a hand and declaring with her powerful voice, “Daniel, I have used you for my own ends, and I intended to use you further. So, I command you as possibly my last order to you; survive your ordeals. If you truly are a Divine Summon, save this world from itself, or survive as a soldier to fight another day. These are the only choices I allot to you. Disobey me at your peril.”

He chuckles but bows. “As you wish, Commander. I will do my very best.”

She acknowledges him with a nod, instructing the driver of the last cart to move. She watches as Daniel sees them off, turning away in a quiet shame.

Daniel doesn’t care, though. He has needed to test his weapons, and he didn’t want to do it where the others would see. Unfortunately, he’ll be testing them in the thick of battle, and against enemies so terrifying, a fort at the end of the world isn’t even going to try.

Which reminds him, the reconnaissance teams are still west of the fort. If they try to flee the enemy, they’ll likely need all the time they can get. He jogs to the west gate, opening it so that the scouts can continue through without impedance. If the dragons are truly such a grave threat, then the gate alone will do little, since any troops with the dragons will advance at a pace similar to that of the dragons themselves.

Once that’s done, Daniel makes some simple preparations. He stages training dummies on the wall with armor and weapons, making it look like the fort is still manned at a glance; particularly from the air. He doesn’t know how long it will take for the dragons to arrive, since he doesn’t know how far the perimeter the recon teams form actually is. There are also other factors at play as well. Are the dragons escorting an infantry? If so, they’ll likely advance at a rate the slowest can move -at their own quickest, of course-. If they are fully aware of Fort Peony -which would be shocking if they weren’t-, they could launch vanguard attacks to try to catch the fort off guard. However, it’s likely the dragons are the siege weapons, rather than the vanguard. They’ll rest until the infantry can advance no further, and obliterate any defenses with strong attacks. Treating them like tanks is fitting, since his weapon is modeled after an antitank rifle, even if its crude design would make true arms makers of his world weep with its shoddy craftsmanship. 

Once he has some fake soldiers staged, he carefully ventures out into the clearing in front of the fortress on the west side. He digs a few holes, placing landmines he crafted. He then lays out some fuses that he made, connected to the landmines, since he wasn’t sure how best to make a pressure trigger. However, he has knowledge of many kinds of battles of history. He’s far from an expert, but he can use his own creativity to do the best he can to fill in the gaps. With a flammable oil he managed to blend, he makes a wide trail that will be easy to hit with a flaming arrow, even for him. And, once lit, will contact the fuses. It won’t be elegant. However, if he can distract his enemies with theatrics, he might be able to give them pause and draw out his real targets.

Daniel knows that if he fails to kill the dragon, he won’t make it far, even with a mount. Which is why, when the recon scouts suddenly burst out of the clearing as he’s making final preparations, he calls out to them. “There are a couple of mounts left! Hurry!”

“D-Daniel!?”

“Don’t delay! I’m earning my full pardon! Go! Regroup with the main garrison!”

The lead officer hesitates as the other scouts nod, jogging ahead. The scout commander bows briefly, running after her troops. “They should be only a short distance behind! May the gods protect you!” Fortunately, the mounts of this world, which share more traits with rhinos than with actual horses, are actually pretty large and strong, making it easy to carry multiple people. 

Daniel is content with his decision. He’s afraid, but he feels ready. It’s not specific, but it’s only natural that the enemy would be advancing at a pace only slightly slower than the retreating recon soldiers. He has only a little more time.

He returns to the top of the wall, readying his rifle and his revolver. He also sets a small fire next to himself and prepares some flaming arrows. As with all things, he gets the gist of archery. He knows which way to point the sharp end of the arrow. He intentionally made the oil field large enough that even he can’t miss. And, if he does, he has an extra try or so. From there, he just needs to distract the enemies long enough for them not to notice the fuses.

Trees begin cracking and rumbling, but it’s a fair distance behind the sounds of marching. Foot soldiers of the demon army are the first to emerge from the tree line. There are obvious fantasy monster-like races; small goblins and imps leading as the apparent cannon fodder, oni-looking demons and more bestial animalistic races that resemble tigers and wolves as heavier infantry, and ogres and lumbering monsters with four legs as wall breakers.

Leading the militia appears to be a female being with two, deer-like horns emerging from her silvery blue hair. Stripes pattern her skin, and she bears an ornamental staff made of something resembling ceramic; most likely the tusk of some great creature like an elephant. 

Daniel tries not to draw attention to himself, keeping himself hidden low on the ramparts and shouting through an echo horn, “YOU THERE! TURN BACK! YOU SHALL NOT CROSS THIS BARRIER! THOSE WHO TRY SHALL BE MET WITH THE GRIM FACE OF DESPAIR!”

A few of the beastmen fire arrows at the wall, and Daniel braces in his secluded spot. The shields of several of his dummy soldiers take hits, wobbling. He shouts out screams and calls without the horn, making it seem like the arrows have landed some hits behind the wall. He doubts it’s superbly convincing, but he keeps up the act. “YOU FOOLS! YOUR IGNORANCE WILL BUY YOU NO MERCY WHEN YOU FACE THE JUDGMENT OF THE GOD OF DESPAIR!”

Daniel peeks over the wall. The goblins are cautiously marching forward. They’ve already passed the line of the land mines, and the heavy infantry are at the mines. The wall breakers are getting close, but his rifle should make easy work of the wall breakers. 

Daniels smirks at himself. Highly unlikely.

He lights a couple of fuses at his feet, which race towards the fireworks launchers he made. They spew flames and sparks, and the warriors flinch, bracing behind shields.

Daniel fires the flaming arrow next, and the fire hits the oil, erupting in a massive line of raging flames. The goblins are engulfed in the flames, shrieking and squealing as they burn, and those that escape the flames flee.

Daniel continues the show, “MWAHAHAHAHAHA! TURN BACK NOW, YOU PATHETIC WEAKLINGS! TURN BACK OR PERISH!”

The woman, who seems to be something similar to an anthropomorphized Kirin of asian mythology, snarls orders as the surviving goblins flee backwards, and the wall breakers bellow, lumbering forward.

Daniel sighs. He’s a little relieved honestly. The heavy infantry are crossing the lines, and some begin throwing dirt on the flames.

However, fifteen explosions thunder out, ripping holes in the landscape as ten times as many lives are snuffed out, including several of the wall-breakers, who are dismembered by the blasts, while shrapnel maims and wounds the infantry soldiers. They collapse, some of them into the fires, and they cry out. The battlefield is filled with screams and cries. Daniel knows that black powder is relatively easy to make with the right ingredients, but because of magic -like so many other things his world relies on-, it hasn’t been invented yet. As such, explosions without chanting or triggering spell detection -and enabling spell cancellation- are unthinkable.

The Kirin appears to be flustered by the loss of nearly half of her forces in little over a minute. However, all of it is just to draw out Daniel’s real target. He NEEDS to face the dragons, because he assumes the warriors of Fort Peony could pretty easily handle the rest of the forces, or at least delay them properly. If he can’t defeat the dragons, little changes. They can still march on the main garrison. But, the main garrison should easily be able to handle everything else.

And, if he can thin their numbers in the process, all the better.

Daniel calls through the horn, “HuaHAHAHAHAHA! WHAT’S WRONG, MUHDAME!? I HAVEN’T EVEN USED ANY REAL MAGIC YET! DON’T TELL ME THIS IS TOO MUCH! I HAVE SO MUCH MORE TO TEACH YOU!”

Daniel can see it. The Kirin is getting frustrated. She’s pacing back and forth as her lines crumble around her. The goblins have completely abandoned the battle, and the beastmen have fallen back behind the bodies of the wall breakers -those that have survived-. 

The Kirin pulls a small curled-tube from her belt and blows in it. The sound is similar to a clarinet with a single tone.

Soon after, a bellowing roar emerges from the forest behind her. And then, a second, even deeper one.

Crimson wings emerge from the treeline, and with a broad and mighty sweep, they lift a massive reptilian body into the sky. It looks about like he would expect -and dreamed and fantasized about in his old world-. Its scales glimmer in the evening light, and magical power glows in its thick, armored belly scales. 

Daniel shouts without the horn, “I call BULL! Dragons can’t fly!”

His heart is racing. He won’t get many shots at defeating it. He calls through the horn, “THAT IS YOUR TIDE CHANGER? YOUR FINAL DRAW? THAT PALTRY BAG OF SCALES WILL BE NOTHING BUT THE LINING FOR MY BOOTS!”

The dragon roars in a rage.

It sweeps its great wings once more, and it gains momentum towards the wall. Daniel snatches his rifle and braces against the wall, hiding for a moment as he takes a deep, courage-boosting breath.

Daniel pulls the bolt of the rifle up and back a little, checking the breach of his crude weapon. One of his brass shells is inside, ready to be fired. He closes the bolt, ready.

Suddenly, he is jostled when a massive impact slams the wall near him, and he looks. He doesn’t get long. A massive, blindingly bright jet of fire scorches the wall, and the stone melts away like butter, while the flame is swept away from Daniel towards the other end of the wall. He realizes dumb luck -which is sort of what he was counting on- is the only reason he’s alive. He idly hoped that if the dragon’s fire reaches him, he’d be snuffed out of existence in an instant before the pain could even register.

In the off chance he got the opportunity, he needs to hit the dragon before it realizes he’s the threat. He rolls up to a kneel, taking aim.

For a moment, he flinches.

Daniel served on an aircraft carrier, and the first time he approached it, having come from a small town, it was the largest single object he had ever seen. It was a colossal titan of human construction; a vessel of war larger than almost anything else on the water. Daniel remembers the feeling of being so small in comparison to the massive iron monolith. 

That feeling returns in the face of the largest living creature Daniel has ever seen with his own eyes. Its head appears to be comparable to an orca’s in size, maybe a little larger. Its body is easily larger, and its tail sways across the ground, immune to the fire of the oil still burning weakly.

Daniel can hear the Kirin taunting him. The dragon snorts as it surveys its handy work and scans to the left towards Daniel. Its glowing purple eye pivots, and it locks onto Daniel. It’s fully aware of him now. Its lips curl back, and it begins inhaling as it rears its head back.

Thankfully, it’s too late.

Daniel steadies his breath and solidifies the stock against his shoulder. He exhales slowly and pulls the trigger.

****************

Continue to the next chapter here:
Chapter 21: The Feldrok Sorcerer

Chapter 19: The Cup Game

Treia goes off watch, yawning as she makes her way to her room to retrieve her bathing bag. She keeps it just inside her door so that she can go to the bathhouse right away. She hates being dirty more than most other things. 

As she’s making her way to the bathhouse, she spots Daniel getting water.

One of the east gate watchstanders headed to the baths as well says from nearby, “Ugh… I’d watch yourself, Treia. I heard Daniel tried to get you into trouble with the Commander.”
“What?”

“Evening Barracks Quarterdeck supervisor told my Lieutenant that Daniel was following the Commander around, and your name came up.”

“I…” She swallows hard.

Please tell me it was just the device… Was he able to fix it? Wait! That’s it!
She approaches him haughtily. She has to choose her words carefully, but she can maintain the image while fishing for information. “You! Weed. Don’t you have anything more important to be doing right now?”

Daniel turns and his gaze cools. He just went into his ‘shut up and take it’ expression that he always wears. He replies, “I report directly to the Commander, Sergeant. Please excuse me.”

“I don’t think I will! That’s pretty presumptuous of you, thinking you’re important enough to be close to the Commander! You should be ashamed of yourself for lying like that. If you’re just going to waste time, why do you even stay here?”

He surprises her when he pulls out a folded up piece of paper. He unfolds it and hands it to her. She reads it briefly, and her jaw drops.

“{If anyone confronts you, show them this letter. Effective immediately, Daniel is cabin boy to Commander Leiwelles, direct report. Signed, Commander Leiwelles, Commanding Officer, Fort Peony.}”

Treia tosses the letter back, and he manages to catch it. She crosses her arms, saying bitterly, “Fine. But, what’s so great that you did today that you can think you’re better than dirt, Weed? Huh?”

Daniel replies, “Nothing, I suppose. I’m taking my leave.”

She watches, a little disappointed, as he walks away.

She heads to the bathhouse. She doesn’t pay attention when the others try to express solidarity for Treia and disgust for Daniel. Her mind is on her family recording. Will she ever hear her youngest brother’s voice again? Will she be able to find comfort in her siblings reassuring her and telling her they love her?

Will Daniel even try to fix it?

She winces at this last notion. She’s treated him poorly since the day he arrived, and the Commander ordered her to continue to do so. It would be more surprising if he doesn’t break it if he figures out it’s hers, let alone repair it.

As she reaches her room to return her bath bag and toss her dirty clothes into her hamper, she takes a seat against her door once more, sighing. 

She opens her eyes and stares ahead blankly. The image of her three younger siblings stares at her. Her eyes water, and she looks away. 

She snaps her eyes to her tea table. The image of her siblings is floating there, staring back at her with big, happy grins as they crowd into the hologram.

Treia trips over her arms and legs to scramble to the tea table, and she stares at the apparition as her hands tremble on the edge of the tea table. 

Sure enough, she sees a magical device used for storing a memory; both an image and a voice recording, through magic. And, the image of her siblings is as crisp and beautiful as it’s always been. She reaches for the ghostly apparition, and as she touches, she feels the projection crystal, which causes the image to waver as the magical effect is distorted by her hands. She gasps as tears well anew in her eyes. She touches the various parts of the jewelry box-like object. It’s present. It’s solid. It’s sitting on her tea table in her room, projecting the image.

However, there are two components, and terror grips her heart. Daniel has no idea. There’s no way he does. He has no idea that her brother is gone, and that this is the only way she’ll ever hear his voice again.

Even if it’s a little distorted and buzzy. It’s been that way for a long time. But, it’s still his voice in there.

She hesitates as she hovers her finger over the activation for the voice. She doesn’t want to know. She doesn’t want it to be gone. She wants to linger in the hope.

She swallows hard, tapping the activation point.

She chokes on her own breath as three children squeal in glee; two boys and a girl. Her tears swell, and she whimpers.

“Big sister! Big sister! We love you! We love you lots and lots, so come home quickly! Okay!? Ngeeeeee!” Tears start to trickle down her cheeks as she listens, staring at the images with a distant stare. Something is… strange, but she can’t place it yet.

“Big Sister Treia, I’ve always looked up to you, so I hope you’ll accept this little gift and remember us. Because we’ll always be praying for you to return safe and sound and with lots of stories! A-And, I’m learning to cook your favorite meals, just for you! So hurry back!” Her younger sister, Hestori, speaks. Her voice is relatively mature, given that she’s almost ten years younger than Treia -and was only eight years old for the recording-. And, it’s silky smooth.

“Big sis! Big sis! Today, Hestori, Barlen and me all went to the river today ALL by ourselves! We caught lots and lots of swimdarts and splaships! Just like you showed us! I love you more than these two do, so…” Two other voices shriek, “HEY!” Treia scoffs, her tears pouring steadily from her eyes as she laughs tenderly. Germeil, her middle brother, was boisterous and too brave for his own good. He got his siblings in almost constant trouble with their parents and with Treia, who often had to babysit them while their parents were working. His voice is the loudest, but he also sounds kind and giddy, just a happy and joyful person to be around. He sounds exactly as she remembers the last time she saw him.

“Hey big sis Treia… I miss you. I want to be big and strong when I grow up. Stronger even than you! Th-That way… I can protect you, finally. S-So, wait for me, big sis!” Treia stares in horror and disbelief at the device. The lullaby begins, and tears pour from her eyes. 

He promised to become strong. He would become her protector to pay her back for the time she defended him from a fangtongue. Her hand drifts to the left side of her belly, where she was slashed by its blade-like tongue as she dove onto Barlen to protect him. That was only a year before sickness claimed him, two months after he recorded that message.

However, it’s not the message that has her frozen, swirling in a torrent of memory.

It’s his voice. There is no rattle. There is no buzz. There is no hum or crackle. There are no pops or silent spots. 

Barlen’s voice was perfect, as if he were standing in the room with her. Hearing his voice -the voice she knew all too well, and had to fill in with her memories every time she heard the recording- just speak to her is too much. Her brain is stalled.

She pinches her cheek, feeling pain, but unable to look away from the device. She whimpers, “Barlen… Germeil… Hestori…” 

Treia breaks into sobs as she slumps onto her tea table, hugging the device tenderly. Her feline ear touches the activation button again inadvertently, and the cheer starts, before the voices speak.

Crystal clear voices, perfectly emulating the speakers as they were the day they recorded it. The most beautiful and clear rendition of their family lullaby that has ever existed.

Treia clutches it even closer to her cheek, crying as the voices bring her comfort and resolve, as well as a flood of memories, both good and bad. All of them tender and full of love.

***************

Bellstram lingers in the darkness of a closet that has yet to be used. Entering the room was easy. It’s the perfect location, since few know this room now has an owner. The owner is also the most hated person in the Fort. In fact, it was a perfect sequence of events. The watchstanders watching over him were dismissed, and now he’ll be all alone in a room for several hours.

Whenever he shows up. 

Daniel presents the only hole in the story of how he ended up disappearing for a week. If he saw her, he can claim she pushed him. If she tries to claim she was attacked, it would be clear to everyone that saw her that she wasn’t attacked. She had no real injuries or damage to her equipment.

Daniel has a weak and pathetic presence, and he would be easy to kill. The Commander even pretends to like him to earn his trust. That way, he won’t question why he suddenly has the luxury of a private room.

Because, he’ll be missing for a week once more. And this time, she will be able to verify the job is done.

Bellstram passes the time meditating, listening for him to enter. She knows he lingers in the smithy long into the night, but tomorrow is her off day, so she won’t have to worry about being needed and can catch up on her own sleep. She had to make sure she got inside long before anyone would see or notice her.

Suddenly, banging on the door occurs. It goes on for several seconds. Bellstram remains silent, though it’s strange. It should be getting close to the time he’ll return.

“Daniel! Daniel, it’s me! Treia! Please open up!”

Surprised, Bellstram hesitates.

Bellstram doesn’t want the door to be opened by anyone else. If anyone comes in for an inspection and finds Bellstram in his room, the deceit will be ruined.

However, Treia hasn’t said anything about their discussion from before. In fact, she seems to hate Daniel even more than anyone else. Though, she must’ve been an actress in a previous life, because she’s really selling the desperation.

Bellstram cracks the door open, peeking through the crack. She whispers, “Hey, quiet down.”

Treia’s eyes go wide. “B-Bellstram? Wh-What…?”

“Shhhh! I’m here for the same reason you are.” Treia looks like she’s been crying, but what about is unclear.

“The s-... Where’s Daniel?”

“He hasn’t come back yet. Listen, I’ll take care of the messy part. You just…”

Treia doesn’t pay attention. She seems to have lost interest the moment Bellstram revealed Daniel isn’t here. She instantly turns up the hallway, and she trots away, as if she’s desperately trying to find him.

Bellstram’s instincts crawl. She slips out of Daniel’s room and jogs after Treia. However it happens, a deep part of Bellstram wants to ensure she witnesses it.

Of course, she doesn’t actually know what’s going through Treia’s head right now.

******************

Earlier, Daniel is making his way out of the bathhouse, having cleaned up after his time in the smithy. He doesn’t mind the smell of the smoke, but it’s nice to have a room, finally, to justify bathing daily. It’s his own space, and he’s able to stash his custom made creations where he can keep them clean and intact. He also can build up a stockpile of bullets without anyone asking questions. He still hasn’t tested either the rifle nor the revolver he managed to finish today, but because he over-designed the basic components, they both should work.

However, as he’s headed for the barracks, Gwenesphia catches his attention. “Daniel!” She waves him down, jogging closer.

“Lieutenant. A little late for you to be awake, isn’t it?”

She smirks, “Thank you for your concern, but I’m off tomorrow, so I’ll be alright.” She smiles warmly. “Since we both seem to be off for the moment, would you keep me company in the break area?”

“I… Me?”

With a nod, she adds, “I haven’t been as kind to you as I wish I would have been, and… I want to try to clear the fog. Please?” She folds her ears down cutely with big eyes to plead.

Daniel hesitates, but he asks again. “Me? You sure?”

She nods warmly. “Of course! Who else?”

“Uh… almost literally anyone?”

She scoffs. “Come on!” She takes his hand and pulls him to the break area, which is attached to the barracks building, but separate. There’s only a couple of others in the break area, sitting and chatting, and Gwenesphia gently -but forcefully- shoves Daniel onto one of the longer cushioned seats. She plops down beside him, and her tail swishes a little behind her as she sits awkwardly. She sighs, trying to break the tension a little, though Daniel’s not sure what’s happening. Gwenesphia has been one of the more amenable individuals at Fort Peony, but they haven’t interacted that much.

She clears her throat, saying, “Daniel… Will you indulge me a little further?”

“I… Sure.”

She smiles brightly. Without further hesitation, she lays down on his lap, sprawling across him as she stretches and finds a comfortable position. She sighs contentedly. Her voice goes soft as she gingerly swirls her finger on his knee, “I… wanted to talk a little about myself, if that’s alright.”

“I don’t mind.”

She wriggles a little, finding that perfect comfort spot, and Daniel sits patiently. “I’m the youngest of seven siblings, so my family’s nobility will be pretty dried up after my eldest siblings get their titles and inheritance. And, I’ve come to terms with that. But, I joined on my terms to the advance guard so I could get stationed here, rather than being conscripted to the regular army. There were talks, and… I wanted to serve somewhere meaningful if I was going to have to serve.”

“I get that. I’m surprised even noble houses can be conscripted from.”

“My father’s a baron, so he’s expected to muster troops for the general army, which then get loaned out to the Empire for the war. Any family with more than three children are also subject to conscription, starting from the youngest adults, especially those unmarried.” She blushes a little. “Obviously, that included me. But, Fort Peony has become my home. I trust and respect everyone here.” She stops her finger swirling for a moment, murmuring softly, “That includes you.”

“Are you sure you should?”

She scoffs a little against his thigh, rolling onto her back to look up at him. “A ‘lecherous man’ shows up at a base full of women, and he doesn’t even look at them, let alone harm them. I don’t know what you’re attracted to, or what your reasons are, but… I want to know the truth about you. I shared, so it’s your turn now.”

“I told you, didn’t I? I did what I believe is right.”

“Then, why did you have to expose the princess? Why didn’t you explain to your kingdom? Th-That kingdom? Isn’t the King an otherworlder like you?”

Daniel sighs. “You ask valid questions, but I don’t like confrontation. Her corset was in the way, and her skin has to be in contact for the spell I had a companion perform. It shocked the princess’s heart back to life. If I had delayed, she would have been unrecoverable. We were lucky as it was. There wasn’t time to hide her or make the others leave. There wasn’t time. I knew what to do to save her. The consequences other than her death were the furthest things from my mind.”

She smiles gently. “And, did she survive?”

“She did. She was recovering when the decision to banish me was made.”

She nods as she listens. “That’s good. Hey, Daniel?”

“Hmm?”

“Do you want to touch my chest?”

“I have no urge to do so.”

“So… you don’t find me attractive…?” She pouts on his lap.

“I didn’t say that.”

The feline woman cocks her head. “Say it clearly then.”

“Mm… That’s forward. You’re attractive. But, I’ve overcome many urges in favor of self-control in my life.”

“I see.” She takes his hand and places it on her abdomen. She says softly, “Feel free. I won’t mind.”

With a scoff, he asks, “Are you sure you want to be doing any of this? Rumors are certain to arise.”

“Shut up and rub my belly. Rumors are just words. I know they’re wrong.”

Daniel hesitates, but he gingerly moves his hand across her abdomen in small, swirling motions. She hums with a smile, stretching again. She murmurs tenderly, “Thank you…”

Daniel relaxes as the young woman rests on his lap. He loses track of time, and when he looks at her after a bit, she’s completely asleep. He sighs quietly. “I see…”

He doesn’t have anywhere to be, so he relaxes quietly.

However, after a short while, the door to the break area bursts open. “DANIEL!?” 

He looks towards the door to his left and behind the sofa-like thing they were sitting on. It’s sergeant Treia, and she looks like she’s been scrambling around. Her eyes are full of hurt and tears, and Daniel immediately goes on guard. He bolts out from under Gwenesphia’s head, and she jolts awake. However, he can’t focus on her. He moves away from her, “Sergeant? What can I do for you?”

Treia’s eyes lock onto him, and her face twists. She groans in a strange, strained tone.

There are only a few yards between him and her, and the sofa won’t stop her for long. He knows the gatonines are deceptively strong and agile. She can likely pounce the distance between them without needing to crouch.

And, she does. Daniel braces, blocking his face and neck with his arms. However, he isn’t hit high, where his easy-to-target vitals are. He’s tackled low, and his foot catches the corner of the coffee table, toppling him. He manages to slow his fall with his left arm, and he can feel Treia’s arms wrapped around his waist firmly.

Daniel’s thoughts and heart are racing, screaming up to speed from his relaxed and groggy state a moment ago.

However, as he tries to get footing, he hears sniffling and sobbing…

…From his waist. Treia is clinging to him and crying. She’s not trying to eviserate him with her sharp teeth. She’s not trying to strip his pants and target his masculine parts. She’s clinging to his waist as she cries into his abdomen.

“...RRRYYYYY!!! DANIEL! PWEEAZE F-F-FORGIB MEEEE!!! WAAAAAHHHH!!!” 

Confused, Daniel looks at Gwen, who is sitting up with wide eyes. And, the small handful of others that were relaxing in the break area are also gathered around, watching the scene.

Daniel asks, “S-Sergeant? What are you…?”

She snaps her gaze up, all but pouring buckets of tears from her eyes as she whimpers desperately. She pulls her face closer to him, the only brief instances that she releases his waist, but she grips his shirt’s chest tightly as she pleads, “PWEASE FORGIB ME D-D-DANIEL! I’M SO SOWWWY!!!” It’s strange to hear her speaking so poorly as her sniffles and sobs choke her words. 

Daniel relaxes on his back, keeping his hands up and ready, but disarmed and diplomatic as well. “I don’t know what I need to forgive…! Sergeant, I don’t understand…”

Her face twists, and she looks down. Tears are dripping continuously on his chest and neck, and she chokes out. “I-... I treated… I said… such terrible things… P-please… I’m so s-s-sorry!” She sniffs deeply, and her nose slurps in an undignified way. “I-I’ll do any-any-anyth-thing! Please forgib me!”

“O-Okay! Okay! Please calm down! I have no idea what’s going on.”

She slumps onto him, sobbing unintelligibly into his chest for a long time. Everyone watches awkwardly.

Gwen kneels next to them, placing a hand on Treia’s shoulder as the latter finally begins to calm down. “Sergeant… Wh-... What’s going on?”

Treia whimpers, “I can’t do it anymore… I can’t… I can’t hate him… I don’t want to… He’s… I…” She looks up at Daniel, choking out, “Thank you…! Thank you so much! Thank you, Daniel! I-... I can’t repay you! I’ll dedicate my life to, but I can’t pay you what it’s worth!”

A flash of recognition probably slipped across Daniel’s face, but he deflects. “I… I don’t know what you’re talking about, Sergeant. I haven’t done…”

She throws her arms around his neck, hugging him. “Stop lying… Please, stop lying… I-It works better… better than ever… Thank you… I… I was so scared… So scared I’d never hear his voice again…”

Gwenesphia, apparently knowing enough about her comrade, asks softly, “Did something happen to your memory crystal, Treia?”

Treia has to nod while she sniffles before she can form words to answer. “I… I dropped it… A-And it stopped working.” She stares into Daniel’s eyes with her own watering once more. “I’m sorry, Daniel! I’m sorry I couldn’t ask you myself! I… I wanted to, but… I’m sorry…”

Daniel sighs. “You have lovely siblings, Sergeant. I’m glad I could help.”

She sniffles, hiding her face in his damp chest once more as she clings to him. “I-... It’s the only way… I can hear his -Barlen’s- voice… I thought it was gone…”

Daniel replies softly as he pets her head, “I’m sorry for your loss. I’m sure they’re proud of the work you do.” Her ears flick a little, but she nuzzles her cheek against his chest.

She whimpers, and her grip tightens on Daniel. “They’d be ashamed of me… of how dreadful I am…”

“Don’t worry about it. I didn’t give anyone here a reason to redeem me. I don’t feel there’s anything needing it, but if you need it, I forgive you. So, you don’t have to worry anymore. The books are square as far as I’m concerned…”

She shakes her head against his chest. “Not good enough…” She looks into his eyes with determination. Her eyes are red, and her cheeks are soaked, but she has a strong sense of resolve. “I owe you everything, Daniel. I will repay you.”

“There’s nothing to repay. I just fixed a thing. It’s everything to you, and I’m happy for you. But, it’s just a trinket to me.” He smiles. “So, there’s nothing owed. My fee has already been paid.”

She cocks her head. “F-Fee?”

“Yes ma’am. I’ve already asked for a fee, and it was paid. All set.”

One of the women lingering nearby asks, “T-Treia? Are… Are you two saying… Daniel can fix magical devices?”
Treia glances at Daniel first, but she addresses the woman who just spoke with a nod.  “Yes.” She sniffles. “He was able to make my memory crystal work after being dropped, and it works better than before.” Her eyes water, “It… It was their voices… exactly as they sounded.”

“I-Is that true?” asks one of the younger junior officers.

Gwenesphia is the one to answer this time. “I didn’t witness the memory crystal, but Daniel is the reason the bathhouse heater and the central air started working again.”

The women glance at each other. Daniel replies, “I… wouldn’t say I can fix everything. I got lucky with-...”

Gwen covers his mouth with a smile. Before she says anything, the young officer points out, “I heard from the medical team that Daniel is immune to magic… or something. How can he fix magical devices?”

Gwen replies, “He can’t make magic crystals, like an artificer or artisan could. But, he can fix anything else. Isn’t that right, Daniel?” She keeps her hand on his mouth, preventing him from being deflective. He sighs, nodding.

She smiles. “You have a terrible habit of stealing your own pride, Daniel.” She releases his mouth, and Treia sniffles. “Agreed… An artificer alone would charge thousands of Valden for repairing it… And, it might lose the memory…”

Daniel replies gently, “That was a risk. The memory stone is a stone, rather than a crystal, but if its, uh, {runes} are damaged, it would have been.”

She stares at him with a distant expression.

He sighs. “Dropping it could potentially damage the memory stone, which I couldn’t have repaired. Please continue to be careful with the device.”

She smiles, scoffing. “I will… Thank you, Daniel. And, I will repay the debt I personally owe you. I promise.”

“I wish you’d let it go.”

She glares at him softly, and he sighs. “Do what you want, Sergeant.”

She takes a somewhat soft ‘sassy’ tone, “I don’t answer to you.”

He cocks his head a little, and she grins. The sergeant hugs his head one last time, kissing his cheek affectionately. 

Suddenly, she flinches, though, and turns serious. “D-Daniel… Can I talk to you in private for a minute?”

“I… sure. Though…”

Gwenesphia states, “I’ll serve as intermediary for all our sakes.”

She makes eye contact with Treia, which seems to be acceptable, and Treia nods in agreement.

She climbs off of Daniel, and all three climb to their feet. Treia states, “Please come with me.” She leads them to a secluded meeting room in the office building, and she verifies no one followed them. She murmurs, “Daniel… Has anyone tried to get you alone since you returned from being lost?”

“You mean other than you two?”

They nod. “Not really. I can count on one hand the number of people here who talk to me without hostility.”

Treia flinches a little, and she murmurs, “Sorry…”

“I don’t hold it against anyone. It’ll make leaving easier if and when the time comes.” He hums, “Mmm… Let’s see… The Commander, I guess, is the only person who’s taken me aside. She’s obviously the one that asked me to repair the memory crystal.”

Treia nods to confirm. “I was… I shouldn’t say right now… But, I WILL tell you soon, Daniel. I promise.”

He’s understandably confused, and she continues with her original thought. “I… think… Do you know what happened the day you fell, Daniel?”

“Only that something hit me. I didn’t get a look at it, though. I assumed it was an animal.”

Treia and Gwenesphia share a glance. Treia sighs. “It was Bellstram. She was on free scouting at the same time, and she expressed how you disappeared before you ever returned.”

Gwen adds a subtle nod, adding, “She also made a point of celebrating your disappearance. That part, unfortunately, is not unique to her.”

Treia adds coldly, “This part is… She was lying in wait in Daniel’s barracks room this evening. Something very few people know about because he received it from the Commander very recently.”

Daniel asks, “Bellstram broke into my room?”

Treia confirms softly, “Yes. I was trying to find you, and she answered the door. I think… because she thought I was on her side…”

“Because of how you’ve been treating me,” observes Daniel pragmatically.

She nods softly. “I’m…”

“Please stop apologizing, Sergeant. I forgive you. I’d like you to understand what I did and why I did it, if you’ll allow it, but another time. I don’t have any allies here, and I don’t have any evidence. I’ll just have to wait until Bellstram tries something, I guess. If I’m lucky, I’ll survive.”

The two women pout a little. However, Gwen just as quickly perks up. “I don’t think we have to risk it. The Commander. I have it on good authority she’s REALLY good at interrogations. REALLY good, if you know what I mean.”

Daniel says it with a little humor and without thinking, “What? She can magically detect lies?”

Gwen and Treia’s eyes both go wide. Gwenesphia nods, asking at a whisper, “Y-Yeah… How did you know?”

Daniel laughs. “I didn’t. It’s just the most logical conclusion from what you insinuated.” Or, the most predictable if this was a story.

Treia asks, “Should we go wake the Commander?”

Gwen replies with her hand on her chin, “I don’t think we need to do that… We can wait until morning.”

“But what if…?”

“We can wait, because I’ll sleep in Daniel’s room with him.”

“Huh?” ask both Daniel and Treia in unison.

Gwen smiles with a slight blush, and Treia sighs. She turns to Daniel, saying matter-of-factly, “Daniel, ignore her. She’s in heat. It’s not a good idea to be alone in a room with her.”

Gwen whines, “What!? That’s wrong!”

Daniel looks at her, and then at Treia, who retorts, “I can smell it on you. And, could you be any more obvious with an idea like that?”

Gwen squirms a little. “I didn’t say I wasn’t… But, it’s a good idea. No one will try anything with someone there, right?” She purrs softly, “And, if we’re awake the whole time…” She leans towards Daniel, and Treia puts herself between them, fending off the gatonine Lieutenant. “No. I’ll do it. I’m in my right state of mind.”

Gwen puts her ears back, whining like a child, “That’s not faaaairrr! You just want to keep him to yourself!”

Treia keeps a straight face, saying bluntly, “No. I want to keep him from getting killed. And, it’s not time for me to go to sleep, so I can watch over him.”

As Gwen tries to reach Daniel and Treia holds her back, Daniel remarks in surprise, “Wait! You’re serious, aren’t you?”

Treia glares at him a little. “About Bellstram?”

“N-No. About Lieutenant Gwenesphia…”

They both freeze, and Gwen blushes. She asks sheepishly, “A-... Are there no races in your world that go into heat, Daniel?”

He chuckles nervously. “N-Not people. Though, I guess humans go through a ‘light’ version…”

Treia scoffs. “Humans have it lucky. Come tomorrow, she’s going to be dazed, hot, cold, hungry, thirsty, empty, and pitiful until the infirmary opens. And, if that wasn’t clear, that’s what she’ll feel like… the aroused version.”

The feline woman purrs with a pouty and pleading expression, “You could cure me tonight, Daniel…”
Treia urges, “She’s not thinking clearly, Daniel. The Commander might kill you if she loses a Lieutenant to pregnancy now of all times.”

Daniel chuckles. He says as diplomatically as he can, “Thank you both, but I have a better idea.”

Gwenesphia instantly gasps. “My room? I can’t believe I didn’t think of that!” She purrs, “I have a VERY soft and comfortable cover and pillows, Daniel…”

“No. I’ll handle it. You two, go ahead and…”

Treia sighs in disgust. “You’re not sleeping outside, Daniel. Both of you will stay in my room for the rest of the night. Gwen can watch me, I can watch Gwen, and no one will know where you’re at. Will that work?”

Gwenesphia pouts. “No.”

Daniel thinks for a moment. “Are you alright with that?” 

Treia crosses her arms and looks away. “I owe you. I would be a disgrace to my siblings if I refused to help you now.”

“I won’t ask you if…”

She grips his shirt and presses her head to his chest, hiding her face. “Don’t… please don’t… Just… agree. Please.”

“Okay… I’ll be in your care, then.”

Gwen teases, “Me too, Daniel. I’ll keep you safe.” Her tone is devious, and Daniel is concerned that Gwenesphia might not be nearly as rational as she has appeared so far this night.

But, they just have to make it to morning, when the Commander will be awake.

****************

Continue to the next chapter here:
Chapter 20: The Interrupted Assassination

Chapter 18: The Broken Mechanic

Treia groans at the dining table. “Geeeezzz. I hate that guy so much. He’s so pathetic.”

A few of the other women at the table with her nod in agreement.

“I mean, how can a guy be so pathetic? He’s worse than a little boy.” She puts her cheek on her fist, grumbling as she toys with her food. “It’d have been easier if he didn’t come back.”

“Indeed. How did he even make it back? Especially with no magic.”

One of the medics is sitting nearby, and she murmurs, “I was surprised the potion didn’t actually work. Talk about a waste. Can’t believe I agree with him on something.”

Treia grumbles, “What’s worse, he doesn’t even contribute anything anymore. We’re supposed to just have a scummy freeloader just floating around doing whatever he wants?”

“Right. Why does the Commander keep him around?”

Gwenesphia finally tries to speak up, “Because…”

Treia cuts her off with a scowl, “BECAUSE, she was obviously hoping he was lying about having no magic. He’s supposed to be a divine summon, supposedly, but he’s the most useless person in the world!”
The others nod in agreement. But, Gwen tries to refute, “That’s not…”

Treia snaps at her, “He’s a spineless coward! He doesn’t deserve to even be alive. Why do you defend him? Would you trust him to fight alongside us? Would you trust him to sleep next to you in a tent? He’s a bad person, Lieutenant. I don’t care how polite he seems. I HATE that I have to see him.”

One of the women murmurs as she cuts her food, “It’d be a shame if something happened to him. He’s weaker than before. He might get hurt falling.”

Bellstram adds, “He goes in and out of the smithy every night. Lot of sharp objects in there.”

Gwenesphia gasps, glancing at the others. “Y-You can’t talk like that! You can’t threaten…”

Treia stands up, saying coldly, “Who’s threatening? He doesn’t care about his own life. Why should any of us?”

Gwen is silent for a moment, but only because she’s shocked and doesn’t know what to say.

Treia says quietly, “I’m off to bed. Good day, Ladies.” She makes her way out. She reaches her room and closes her door. She sinks to a seated position against her door, clutching her head in her hands. She feels sick. She agreed with those points wholeheartedly at one point, but to really hear herself, now that she has to intentionally do it…

She lies down on the floor in front of her door, feeling pretty scummy herself. The hopeful part of her heart is desperate to believe the Commander is just playing cold and heartless. She’s always been a brave and intelligent sort. She’s not usually an overly friendly person, but to think she might actually want Daniel disposed of without saying it explicitly…

She kicks her foot, feeling her leather training helmet tumble across the floor. It wouldn’t really matter normally, but she hears it hit a stand, and her gaze snaps up. She watches helplessly as a precious personal treasure falls from the stand; a small magic device that depicts her and her siblings, with a voice recording of her little brothers and younger sister singing their favorite lullaby to her.

It hits the floor, flickering briefly, before the glowing magic image dissolves. Treia stares in horror. She scrambles across the floor, fidgeting with the device. However, it refuses to turn back on. “No! No! Not this! Anything but this…!”

She straightens instantly, “Daniel!” She winces. 

The obvious aside, there’s no way she can approach him and not lose her image of hostility towards him. That would almost be worse than the look of disgust she’d get from him for even pondering asking.

But, there’s no one on base that can repair this device, save for maybe one. Her mind races as she tries to find possible angles.

As she considers possibilities, her eyes water. It’s a simple little magical device, but it’s the most valuable thing Treia owns, especially since it’s the only way to hear her youngest brother’s voice now.

She stands up, wiping the tears from her eyes. She hides the device in a shoulder bag and leaves her room. She knows exactly who will be able to help her.

*************

Commander Leiwelles makes a copy of her weekly status report to be sent to the forward operating base that’s the main base from which Fort Peony is technically staged. It’s not an easy route in or out of the valley, so traffic is minimal, but she does make regular reports to ensure they’re up to date on any non-urgent happenings. Her favorite part about her station is that it’s quiet, for the most part. She’s heard that the far southern base near the ocean is almost continuously hammered with attacks, keeping that fortress at an uneasy state of tension. They lose few troops, but it will undoubtedly turn into a real battle at any time, and has on several occasions.

The demons leave her little corner of the world alone. For that, she is thankful to the gods.

A knock comes at the door. She keeps her sigh internal. Her office has been unusually busy the last few weeks. “Enter.”

Treia enters, saluting politely. “Commander; Sergeant Treia.”

“What is it now? Giving up already?”

“Commander… I need help.”

Leiwelles cocks her head. “Help? With what?”

Treia presents the small magical device, saying, “I… I need Daniel’s help. But,... there’s no way he’ll help me. Not after what I’ve said. And… if I am to… keep doing it…”
The Commander massages her chin briefly. “I see… You believe Daniel can repair this device?”

Treia looks down. “I know no one else here can. And, I also know we’re not likely to see an artisan or artificer all the way out here otherwise. Please… Can you please have him repair this for me? I dropped it, and it stopped working. I’ll pay. I’ll apologize. I’ll even… continue what I’ve been doing…”

Leiwelles knows what the device is. She doesn’t necessarily know what Treia’s is loaded with, but they’re a common miniature magic device popular with noble families for preserving a small moment in time. It’s something to lift one’s spirit without fail.

“I see. Quite the predicament.”

“I beg of you, Commander. Please do this for me. It’s precious to me.”

“Yes, yes. I understand. Hate truly is the ugliest gown, is it not?”

“Commander?”

“No one who wears hate wants anyone else’s hate to outshine their own. And, no one who wears hate actually wants to see anyone else’s in the first place, even if they agree on what they hate. People wear it because it’s ‘in style’, and yet, no one can bear to look at it for too long. So very fascinating…” The Commander trails off as she stares off into the distance, making a poetic and slightly dramatic point.

However, it’s not lost on Treia. She frowns softly. Leiwelles is saying that it serves no actual purpose, and no one actually sympathizes. They only use it as an excuse to flaunt their own.

The Commander waves her hand at her desk, “Set it on my desk. I’ll see to it Daniel takes a look in a little bit, after you’ve disappeared.”

“Thank you so much Commander! I don’t know how to thank you properly!”

“Oh, don’t worry. That time will come. Now, carry on. I have to finish writing my weekly report.”

Treia nods and bows, trotting out of the room.

Leiwelles finishes her report, and she rolls and seals them with her magic stamp, handing them to her secretary to be sent. “Reports for Command. Send them tomorrow.”

“Yes, Commander.”

She returns to her office for a moment, retrieving the precious device and the bag to obscure it. She carries it under her arm, heading for the barracks. It’s still early in the morning, so Daniel should still be sleeping. First bell will ring in around a half an hour. 

She approaches the barracks front desk, and the deck sergeant perks up. “C-Commander!” She salutes, adding, “Good morning, Commander.”

“Good morning. I’m looking for Daniel’s room.”

The sergeant flinches a little. “His… room? Commander?”

“Yes. The room he should be in right now, yes?”

The sergeant turns pale, and the Commander’s eyes narrow. “He has been given a barracks room, has he not? I have not received any reports of reaching capacity.”

“I… We’re not at capacity, Commander.”

“Oh? Then… Where is Daniel’s room located?”

“He… never asked for one, Commander.”

She stares at the pale and trembling sergeant. She sighs. “I suppose I should be proud, shouldn’t I?”

The sergeant cocks her head in confusion, but Leiwelles turns and walks out. She heads to the infirmary, since he might still be recovering.

However, she’s met with a similar absence. “Commander?”

“Lieutenant. Have you seen your patient?”

“Which patient, Commander?”

She narrows her eyes. “The one who’s a waste of your services.”

“Oh! Don’t know, Commander. He snuck out and refuses to follow instructions.”

“I see. I’ll take my leave, then.” She makes her way out again, looking around. She doesn’t see anyone out of place at the moment. The Quartermaster notices her, and she asks, “Commander? Looking for someone?”

“I am. Have you seen Daniel?”

“Not yet, Commander. Have you checked behind the dining hall?”

“I have not. Why would I check behind the dining hall?”

“I think he sleeps back there.”

Leiwelles cocks her head. She’s baffled. She understands the stance many of her soldiers have taken. It’s deeply rooted and wide-spread, apparently. But, she underestimated the almost cruel level of neglect and malicious apathy.

She walks around behind the dining hall, and to her surprise -though, she shouldn’t be, apparently-, she finds two watchstanders sitting on the ground next to each other, bored, as a third person is sitting against the wall of the dining hall.

The guards spot her first, and they both scramble to their feet. “C-Commander!” They salute her. 

The commotion causes Daniel to look up, and he looks at Leiwelles with weary eyes. He climbs to his feet as she walks to within a few steps of the three. Daniel mimics the salute, saying quietly, “Commander… Pardon my…”

“Silence, Daniel.”

He halts and nods obediently. She looks at him, and the other two briefly. She tells Daniel, “I’m surprised you’ve lasted this long, Daniel. Seems this location wasn’t secluded enough.”

The two guards look at her in confusion, realizing that she’s insinuating something. However, Daniel says nothing. 

She dismisses the two watchstanders with a motion of her head and the order, “You two, leave us.”

“Commander?”

“Think he’s capable of killing me?”

They hesitate, and she scowls at them. They quickly bow, “We’ll take our leave, Commander! B-Be careful.”

She watches as they walk away for a moment. Once they’re out of earshot, she murmurs, “Daniel. Join me in my office.”

“As you wish, Commander.” She leads him the opposite way, heading to her office. There, she orders her secretary to retrieve breakfast for herself.

Once the secretary is gone, she closes the door and walks back to her desk chair, taking a seat with a sigh.

“Daniel… I don’t know what to say.”

“Understood, Commander.”

“I doubt it.” She sets the treasured crystal projection device on her desk, and she sighs. “Why am I only now learning of all of this?”

“All of what, Commander?”

“Don’t play dumb. You’re terrible at it.” She glares at him, and he doesn’t flinch. He has a glassy expression, but he’s making eye contact with her. It’s not the first time he’s been reprimanded by a superior. The level of discipline he has maintained at her fortress has put most of her seasoned soldiers to shame. 

She clarifies, “Have you been sleeping outside all of this time?”

“Anywhere that’s out of the way, Commander.”

“You KNOW that isn’t what I meant. And, what about your blanket?”

“I misplaced it.”

She clenches her fist. “Any reason you’re not using your barracks room?”

“I don’t have a barracks room.”

“You should. What did the barracks officers tell you?”

“I-...”

“Tell me the truth, Daniel. I already know.”

He looks down. “They told me that they don’t have any spare rooms for men.”

The Commander sighs in disgust. “We’ll deal with that later. Take a look at this.” She slides Treia’s device across the desk, and Daniel steps forward. He asks, “May I?”

“Please do.”

He picks it up, turning it over in his hands. She explains, “It’s a sort of personal treasure that holds a moment in time. It projects an image, and uses the sonic crystal with a recorded voice to project the recording.”

Daniel asks, “Was it dropped?”

“It was. Can it be repaired?”

Daniel seems to be inspecting every surface of it, and every piece. It looks like a small crystal peeking up from a small jewelry box, and he opens the lid, leaving no portion of the device unexplored.

“The sonic crystal is cracked. I can restore the image projection crystal with some certainty, but I don’t know if I can restore the voice. These appear to be standard magic crystals, but smaller, which means they’re made of salt, so… I can try something, but I don’t know if it’ll work.”

“What happens to the voice recording?”

“I don’t know. It looks like this other part is a source of some kind, so I’m hoping it’s the ‘memory’, since it’s the only other thing that ties to both projection crystals, by the looks of it. As long as the memory is intact, the crystal should just be what turns that into sound.”

“Have you repaired this kind of device before?”

“No. But, Earth has similar devices. What I described is essentially how we did it. Just, instead of crystals, it was a diaphragm.” He sets the device down.

“How would you repair the sonic crystal, if you think you can?”

“The crack is a complete fracture, it’s just being held together by the device’s frame, by the looks of it. It still seems to have a glow, indicating the magic is still stored, but it can’t conduct properly. I’d… be willing to try to melt additional salt on the surface, since the surface is the most important part. I don’t know what the consequences of this will be, though.”

“I see… Salt can be melted?”

Daniel confirms with a nod. “It’s a high temperature, though. If I remember right, it’s comparable to silver or gold. Maybe a little higher.”

“So, you’d need to use the smithy, yes?”

“Definitely. And, in fact, I’d prefer to avoid melting the whole crystal, since I don’t know what it’ll do. If I can adhere the surfaces of the crack with a little bit of thickness into the crystal, it should hold well enough. To do that, I’ll need extra salt and tools to precisely melt just where I want the melting to occur.”

“You think this will work?”

“If not, I’d be willing to attempt melting the crystal entirely, though I worry about what will happen to the stored energy.”

“I see… Would you be willing to try?” asks the Commander. “This is a priceless personal effect for a soldier this far away from home.”

Daniel nods in understanding. “I’ll do everything in my power, but I can’t promise it’ll work. That said, I have to remove the crystal, so it should be able to be repaired by a proper artificer if I fail without losing the memory.”

She agrees warmly. “Very well. You may work here and the smithy at your leisure. I’ll send you with a note to the smithy and the dining hall. Use what you need.”

“Thank you, Commander. I’ll begin, then.” He carries the device to the low tea table nearby, and he sits on the floor. Leiwelles continues her work, but she glances at his progress from time to time.

To her surprise, he does get the projected image to appear, depicting three gatonine children; two boys and a girl. Daniel nods with satisfaction that the image projection is working once more.

Leiwelles can’t help but smirk, though she ensures he doesn’t see it. He carefully checks the components, and with a delicate hand, he pulls two uneven halves of a crystal from the inside of the box. The crystal indeed seems to have broken in half from the fall, and he ensures to collect any small chunks that fell off. He keeps the crystal together.

It’s been a little over an hour, and he stands up and approaches the desk. “I’m prepared to work on the crystal, Commander.”

She nods and hands him the note she promised. “Show this to the appropriate supervisors. If they give you any trouble or resistance, return to me immediately. I want to see this device repaired.”

“Will do. I’ll try not to cause trouble, Commander. If the furnace is in use?”

“Use your best judgment. I’m trusting you on this.”

“I understand the stakes, Commander. I shall return as soon as I can.” He bows and begins to excuse himself.

“Do you intend to ask, Daniel?”

“About what, Commander?”

“About that device’s contents. I am clearly not a gatonine.”

“Your husband could be. You could have adopted. You could be asking on behalf of someone. I assume that if it was relevant to my work, you would have told me. But, it’s personal, and clearly not my business. Commander.”

She smirks. “Very well. Good luck, Daniel.”

He excuses himself, leaving the room.

Leiwelles focuses on her own work, reading reports that have been delivered and penning responses for different changes of personnel. Soldiers come and go from a military base. Some are approved by her before hand, others show up in issues of communication, like Daniel, due to a kingdom falling into chaos. And, Bromlund is falling fast and hard. The Stalvaltan Guard seems to be dominating the southern third of the kingdom singlehandedly, which is no surprise. The Stalvaltan Guard is considered one of the top military forces in the world, specializing in both offensive magic and armed combat. They don’t even have a mounted cavalry, as a small squad of soldiers can disrupt a cavalry charge alone, and their standard infantry have never been defeated. True, they’ve never battled at a ludicrous disadvantage, but they’ve demonstrated why they shouldn’t be underestimated. If their numbers were greater, the war with the demons would be an afterthought in the pages of history.

Leiwelles looks at the report more closely. A magic artisan of the Royal Court was supposedly chosen from one of the children of the Stalvaltan Grand Duchy, but it couldn’t be the same, could it?

After a few hours pass, a knock comes at the door. The Commander states in her usual tone, “Enter.”

The door opens, allowing Daniel to enter. His face is covered in soot and sweat, and he has several burns on the exposed skin of his arms and face. She cocks her head, but he simply states, “Commander, I believe I was successful. I’ll reassemble the device now.”

He takes a seat on the floor where he was, and she stares at him for a moment. She asks, “Are you alright, Daniel? Do you need medical attention?”

“I’m alright, Commander. I was careless.”

She scowls at him, and he says in his most diplomatic way possible, “No one did this to me. I couldn’t find gloves or a shield to fit me, so I went without. I’ll survive, though.” He begins fidgeting with the device, and the bell outside begins to ring. It’s the last bell of the day, indicating the end of the work day. She looks at the window, where the sun is setting, causing a beautiful glow on the horizon. She then looks at Daniel once more. She sighs, “Take a break, Daniel. You can finish tomorrow.”

“If it’s alright, Commander, I’d prefer to keep working. I’ll move out into the hallway if you’re going to close up your office for the night.”

“And leave you to pick the lock?”

“Pardon, Commander, but… could I not have any other night?”

She scowls at him for a moment. He’s not wrong.

“Fine. I’ll let you stay in the waiting area outside. But, once I’m done with my bath, we’re headed to the barracks to clear up the misunderstanding. You have until then to get to a stopping point.”

Daniel moves his work pieces out into the waiting area of her office building, and he takes a seat on the floor at the coffee table once more. She sighs, locking her office door. She and her secretary make their way out of the building for the time being.

******************

Daniel turns the sonic crystal over in his fingers. It’s much smaller than a typical magic crystal, but he imagines that only really affects its longevity of service. He couldn’t recharge it, but even melting the crystal down doesn’t seem to have discharged its stored charge. Or, if it has, it only lessened it some, since the salt molecules were still in contact with each other the entire time.

He still has a lot to learn about the magic of this world if this is to be his profession, though he suspects he’ll be lucky for that to be the case. Wenlianna and her family must be rather angry with him, since he left without saying anything and ultimately agreed with Rikuto’s plan to do so. He was a useful asset, but not much else. Wenlianna made it clear exactly what their relationship was from the very moment they met until the last time he spoke to her. He doesn’t mind, but he also can’t forget it.

He plugs the crystal back into place, but he wonders how it got broken in the first place. If the box was dropped, there doesn’t seem to be enough to cause that kind of force directly on the crystal, thanks to the small cradle it sits in. That said, never let it be said that Daniel is completely brainless. He coils a simple spring out of leftover wire he had from the smithy, and he uses it with a small piece of fabric to ensure a snug, but shock-absorbing seating. He also does the same for the other crystals, ensuring they don’t lose conductivity with the mana delivery components.

He also makes sure all of the other fittings are put back together and closes the box, activating the device. The image comes up; the three young gatonine children with big happy, adoring grins. He smiles, and he activates the sound. However, nothing happens. 

But, he doesn’t give up. He never actually removed the cover from the memory components, and the image was working, so he didn’t want to chance it. But, now he has to check. He opens the box back up and inspects the inside.

Sure enough, the mana delivery tubing is slightly ajar on the memory unit feeding the sonic crystal, so he restores everything the way it’s supposed to be. The unit itself reminds Daniel of a polished river stone, but with magic runes on it. What material it is remains a mystery, as the stone has an unnatural silvery blue tone that looks almost transparent, but also like it’s glowing.

Once he pieces it back together, the Earthling mechanic activates the sound again.

Three voices suddenly cheer, which startles him. It’s about the same volume three excited children would be, which startled him mainly because it was so quiet until just now.

All three exclaim, “Big sister! Big sister! We love you! We love you lots and lots, so come home quickly! Okay!? Ngeeeeee!”

Daniel can tell they’re orating a hug on the crystal.

Then, what sounds to be a girl’s voice speaks next. “Big Sister Treia, I’ve always looked up to you, so I hope you’ll accept this little gift and remember us. Because we’ll always be praying for you to return safe and sound and with lots of stories! A-And, I’m learning to cook your favorite meals, just for you! So hurry back!”

Next, a young boy speaks. “Big sis! Big sis! Today, Hestori, Barlen and me all went to the river today ALL by ourselves! We caught lots and lots of swimdarts and splaships! Just like you showed us! I love you more than these two do, so…” Two other voices shriek, “HEY!”

A different young boy speaks with a much softer voice and a slight weariness. “Hey big sis Treia… I miss you. I want to be big and strong when I grow up. Stronger even than you! Th-That way… I can protect you, finally. S-So, wait for me, big sis!”

The recording ends with a touching lullaby sung by all three, and Daniel smiles. He says softly, “I can say with confidence, all three of you have succeeded. Your big sister is sure to make you proud.”

He stands up and puts it in the bag that Commander Leiwelles gave it to him in, and he carries it to the bathhouse, waiting outside.

Gwenesphia, the gatonine morning guard, exits the bathhouse and notices Daniel. She approaches, saying, “Oh! Daniel? What are you doing?”

He replies, “Waiting.”

“Waiting? You mean for men’s hour? That’s still quite a ways away.”

“I don’t have anywhere else to be at the moment, so I’ll wait.”

“I see… Do you want to go sit in the break area… f-for a short while?”

Daniel smiles. “Thank you, but I shouldn’t. I got quite dirty today. I wouldn’t want to ruin the furniture.”

“That’s… Wow… You are dirty. What were you doing?”

With a chuckle, he replies, “Working in the smithy. I received a specific task from the Commander.”

“The Commander? Wh-... What was it? It wasn’t anything weird, was it?”

“It was weird for it to be asked of me. But, I was just reforging something for her. It was nothing.”
“I see…” She sighs. “Listen… I just… I want you to know…”

“Do you need something from our esteemed outcast, Lieutenant?” The voice that asks is cool and stern; none other than the Commander.

She flinches, whirling to face the imposing woman. “C-Commander! I… I was just talking to him.”

She replies with a cold scowl, “Oh really? Are you two friends now? Is that why I found out today about all of the other things that you ladies have done on my behalf?”

“C-Commander?”

Leiwelles ignores her. “Come, Daniel. We’re getting you a barracks room. It’s a shame it took this long.”

Gwenesphia flinches a little. Daniel bows at her nonetheless, saying politely, “Please excuse me, Lieutenant.”

She watches them walk towards the barracks.

As they walk, Leiwelles remarks, “I didn’t expect you to give up and wait for me outside the bathhouse.”

“I finished early, Commander.”
“Finished?”

He nods to confirm. He begins pulling the device out, but she interrupts him. “Wait. Not out here.” He eases the device back into the bottom of the bag, continuing to carry it secluded.

“Daniel, I have a question. Would you like to be my cabin boy for the time being?”

“Cabin Boy, Commander?”

“That’s right. Run errands on my behalf around the base, clean my office, and do… personal requests.” She glances at the device. 

“I’d be honored, Commander, so long as it won’t cause trouble.”

She scoffs. “Everything you’ve been putting up with, you deserve to cause some trouble.” With a sigh, she adds, “Starting now, you report directly to me. Understood?”

“Yes, Commander.”

“Good.” She slows a little as they approach the door, and Daniel quickly steps ahead, taking hold of the door and opening it for her. She smiles and nods approvingly, walking through. Daniel follows behind, and she approaches the barracks office counter. “Commander. Good evening.”

“Good evening, Sergeant. I need the key to Sergeant Treia’s room. I’ll be performing an inspection.”

“Oh… Uh, of course, Commander.”

“Thank you.” The Sergeant looks up Treia’s room, and then retrieves the staff key, handing it to Leiwelles. She then turns, “Come, Daniel.”

“Yes, Commander.” She hands the key to him and leads the way, while the Barracks Duty Sergeant leans out over the counter in surprise.

They find Treia’s room, and Daniel unlocks and opens the door. He opens it for Leiwelles to enter, and she walks inside, with Daniel following behind. He closes the door, and she looks around. “Good. Set it down… mmm… Tea table should be obvious enough.”

Daniel walks to the tea table in the center of the room, which is wide and low to the floor. He pulls the device out of the bag, setting it on the tea table. The holographic image is always running, it seems, and so he does one final check on the voice. He starts the voice recording, and the children cheer. Then, the girl begins speaking, “Big sister Treia…”

As the children state their messages, Daniel remarks, “I hope it didn’t lose any of the message. Like magic crystals, the stones used for memory are beyond me.”

Commander Leiwelles smiles softly for once. “I assume this means you know whose device it was.”

Daniel scoffs. “The evidence is pretty strong towards one conclusion, Commander.”

“And… you still chose to repair it?”

“I don’t care what they think of me. I’ve been used all my life, this world and my own.”

“I’ve heard she has a pretty poor opinion of you, Daniel. To the point, she was disappointed that you survived your ordeals.”

Daniel sighs, listening to the children talk for a moment. “I promised someone I wouldn’t speak of giving up on life, Commander. I came back because I didn’t have the courage to stay in the water and go over the waterfall. I was afraid.” He stands up when the recording finishes, and he faces her. “I long ago accepted that I will always be an asset to the women around me. I don’t have the charisma or attractiveness to be a person in their eyes. But, if I can focus on my purpose; the things I’m good at, I don’t need validation from anyone.” He smiles at the device. “If I can accomplish something, the accomplishment is its own reward.”

He straightens his posture, revealing that he’s been slouching and she hadn’t really realized it. Leiwelles is an average-height woman in this world, and she has to look well up to make eye contact with Daniel when he’s standing at his full height. “To my knowledge, it’s fixed, Commander. Feel free to place the credit where you see fit.”

She smirks. “Are you sure? Clearly, I have a secret asset.”

He chuckles. “Nothing new, here, Commander.”

She laughs a little. “I don’t understand you, Daniel. But, I appreciate what you did.”

They leave Treia’s room, and Daniel ensures the room is locked. They return the key, and the Commander then gets a room assigned to Daniel. He’s provided a blanket and pillow, as well as a key. She also tells the Sergeant to put a note on his room that she is to be present for every inspection of Daniel’s room.

And from there, Daniel officially has a place to sleep after coming to the base.

Of course, it’s still early for him, so he makes his way back out to the smithy to continue making his defense equipment. Not only that, he can move them to his barracks room.

If he can continue to lay low, then he’ll be able to manage. One day at a time.

**************

Continue to the next chapter here:
Chapter 19: The Cup Game

Chapter 17: The Strange Occurrences Around Fort Peony

A week has passed. The Fort nicknamed ‘the Flower Garden’ rests at the northernmost valleyway through the treacherous mountains dividing the known world. Fort Peony is almost entirely manned by women of many of the allied races, all tried and tested warriors in their own right, though this post serves political and ceremonial purposes more than combat. Its difficult terrain on both sides limits the advancement of troops, making it the relatively safest ‘Frontline’ fortress in the world.

It also happens to be the place to which an otherworldly stranger was banished from his kingdom; a relatively disposable body meant for the machine of war. His alleged crime makes him lower than scum to many of the personnel on base, but his personality doesn't match the crime at all. The irony of those claiming he must like men due to avoiding the women most of the time is lost on most.

And, since heading into the demon wildlands a week ago, he hasn't returned.

Treia watches the forest ahead, feeling guilty that she never got to the truth she knows is hidden. He disappeared after it was revealed that he repaired the magic devices around the base. She has mixed feelings, since she knows what was said about him, but knowing in spite of that, he made things better for everyone is difficult to reconcile.

A handful of bodies emerge from the woods in formation, and Gwen twitches, quickly losing the spark of hope. It's one of the returning recon teams, who've been deployed for over a month. Treia approaches the gate, and the leader calls out, "Recon Team Sable, returning from recon. Eight individuals." She names off her subordinates, and the watchstander compares them to the recon log's departures.

"Confirmed. Open the gate." The gate is opened, and Treia replies with her diplomatic smile, "Welcome home, Sable." Even though it’s past curfew, recon teams are the exception, and she only casually glances to make sure the returning recon team members all look familiar, which they do.

"Thanks." The soldiers walk past, but the leader, Urihove, lingers behind. “Sergeant, can you tell me if anyone reported any attacks in the controlled zone?”

“Attacks?” asks Treia confused. “No, why?”

“We saw signs of a scuffle during our return, near the cliffs overlooking the river. Someone or something went over the ledge.”

“Oh… No, no one reported…” Treia trails off. Her thoughts begin to race. However, outwardly, she can’t prove anything. And, she’s not so sure she wants to. “We did have a report of a boar attack, but I assumed that wasn’t what you were saying.”

“No. There were no signs of an animal present.”

“Oh… Uh,... I’ll log the report and begin warning anyone exiting. Any idea… Any signs of who attacked who? Class of demon to watch out for?”

Urihove glances around briefly. She replies quietly, “I’m not sure, but it looked like two sets of boots; someone big and someone small. Prints were too faded to determine race.”

Treia nods as she digests the information, feeling an itch in the back of her mind. “Very well. I’ll put out warnings to the watchstanders and anyone passing through. Please report to your supervisor.”

“Thanks. I’ll do that right away. I’ll take my leave.” She makes her way into the base, and Treia leans against the wall.

After her watch, Treia meets up with Bellstram, who is headed to the baths as well. “Hey, Bellstram! How’s your shoulder feeling?”

“My what? OH! Fine. It was a much lower impact than I thought. Just bruised from landing hard on the dirt.”

“That’s good.” Treia glances around as they walk towards the bathhouse. Why Bellstram wanted to hide it, she’s not sure, but she whispers, “Recon returned a little while ago. They might’ve picked up Daniel’s trail without knowing it.”

“WHAT!?” yelps Bellstram in a surprisingly shocked tone. 

It catches Treia off guard a little, but maybe it was worse than she feared. Bellstram clears her throat, asking, “I-I mean… What makes them think that? H-He hasn’t returned for over a week. Surely he’s dead.”

Treia cocks her head. “I… Is there… any chance, the ‘boar’ you…?”

“Was Daniel?” Bellstram seems to tense a little. Her eyes glance around a little as well, though something seems a little off. But, she croaks out quietly, “Y-Yes! H-How did… How did you know?”

“I knew it. So, he attacked you? How did he sneak up on you? Was it an ambush?”

“I… Uh… That’s…” Bellstram suddenly halts, dropping her towel in a clumsy fumble. “Dang it! I-... I gotta go get a clean towel! Please excuse me!” She snatches her lightly dirtied towel and hurries off back towards the barracks, and Treia watches her for a moment in surprise.

Bellstram doesn’t return to the bathhouse during the time Treia is there.

As Treia bathes, she ponders what could have happened to Bellstram. She didn’t have any obvious injuries when she returned, and she didn’t seem particularly fearful. In fact, she’s been quite happy Daniel was gone, like many of the other personnel stationed at the fortress. 

Treia was present at breakfast time, getting her last meal before going to sleep in preparation for her night watch when Bellstram said those words. She was smug and in good humor about the statement.

That was what Urihove told Treia after returning.

But, Daniel is almost twice as tall as either Treia or Bellstram. He’d be a threat to…

Treia’s thought trails off. He’s not a warrior or soldier. He’s intelligent, but he’s always in a casual stance. He’d be easy to push over. He’d be easy to ambush. The only reason he noticed Treia that one night was because she was sloppy, and he only barely saved himself from getting caught. Any other time, she could easily do whatever she wanted, such as when he’s sleeping in some secluded corner of the base or stranded beyond the gate.

The ledge likely led to the river, which leads to a waterfall. If Daniel IS the one who went over the ledge, it’s unlikely he survived. Or will even be found.

Treia closes her eyes tight. Her heart squeezes with guilt as she tries to convince herself that it’s all right in the end.

Treia does her best to put it out of her mind. She heads to the game room, where there are a handful of tomes, some simple board games, and other basic hobbies to distract herself with.

***********

A couple of days later, during the night shift, something seems to bump and slide against the eastern wall of Fort Peony. The watchstanders, who were just talking about the lack of moonlight being a pain during watch, glance at each other. Jeonoir looks over the edge, calling out, “Who goes there!?” She scans the area around the wall, but she finds no one right away.

“Daniel… o-other…world…”

It’s directly below her, next to the gate itself. “Daniel? Wait!” She leans way out over the wall to look down at the bottom of the wall. There, she finds a body slumped in a seated position against the wall. “What are you doing?”

The man coughs, murmuring, “D-... Daniel… from… otherworld… Returning from…” He begins coughing. He’s barely audible, and his voice is wavering and quiet.

Jeonoir orders, “Archers, line up and ready-nock.”

“Yes Lieutenant!”

Jenoir jogs down to the ground level where the man-door pass through is. She cracks the door open cautiously, listening for an ambush. She uses the door as a shield to swing outwards, and she leans around it, still ready to retreat, but able to see him. “Speak up. What are you doing?”

“Return… f-free…” He coughs, losing strength. “Daniel…”

Jeonoir looks around. There are no eyes looking at them. There are no presences in the distance observing them. It’s just Daniel, and he seems pretty worse for wear.

The harefolk Lieutenant sighs. She checks behind her, and several of her guards are present. She orders, “Mind the door. I’m going to check.”

“As you wish, Lieutenant.”

She closes the door behind her, cautiously approaching with her hand on her sword. “Daniel of the otherworld has been missing for over a week. Do you have an explanation?”

Daniel doesn’t respond. He has his right hand wrapped at his waist, and he seems to have lost consciousness. His face is bruised and scratched, and his clothes are torn, with blood stains all over him, most, if not all, of which looks to be his own. She prods him with her sword, “Hey. I’m talking to you.”

His eyes suddenly flutter open, and he all but whispers, “[I’m sorry… Please repeat…]”

“What language is that!?”

“[En-English]… Sorry… I’ll… I’ll wait here…”

“Wait? For what!?”

“F-First bell…”

His head slowly sinks downwards, and he loses consciousness again. She cautiously tugs open the rag around his hand, revealing nothing hidden, but a terrifyingly dark hand with pale skin, like his flesh was peeled off and laid back on his hand.

As she studies him, his breathing slows, and his hearbeat sounds like it’s also dropping off.

He’s not faking it.

Realizing he’s actually in a medical emergency, Jeonoir calls out, “Medical emergency! Medical emergency! Ring Medic now!”

The watchstanders up top snap into action with a shout, “MEDIC!” “RING MEDIC! THREE ONE THREE!”

The signaller begins pounding on the metal cone with the beater sticks, ringing three sharp, loud, distinct gongs, followed by a pause, then one gong, then a pause, and then three gongs, repeating this cycle over and over.

Orders from up top reach Jeonoir’s ears as the archers take stations. “ARCHERS! READY! SPEARS! READY! OPEN THE GATE!”

“OPEN THE GATE!” The gate begins rumbling open, and the warriors just inside the tower Jeonoir exited from quickly storm out, joining her with their weapons and shields at the ready, guarding them.

Jeonoir orders, “Help me get him inside!”
Several of the soldiers sheath their swords and join Jeonoir in dragging the tall human inside, and just as quickly as it all began, the watchstanders open the gate. All the while, the conical gong continues to ring until the entire fortress is lit up with lanterns and torches. A swarm of warriors, some in their pajamas or wrapped in towels with boots alone sprint to the location with spears or swords in hand, while the on duty medics sprint towards the area. Jeonoir waves them down as the gate and portcullis are locked down once more, and the medics make their way to her, dropping their leather bags nearby and inspecting the patient.

“Is that him!?”

“How the hell did he survive that long!?”

“How did he make it back!?”

“CLEAR THE WAY!” Commander Leiwelle’s voice breaks over the din of the soldiers gathering and securing the area.

The medics inspect Daniel’s injuries and take his pulse. “We’re sure he’s human, right?”

“Yes! No evidence otherwise. No baseline.”

“Pulse and breathing weak. Unconscious. Flesh detachment on right hand. Multiple lacerations. Severe bruising. No obvious signs of broken bones.”

“Agreed.”

Commander Leiwelles jogs to a stop with her own pajamas and her cuirass loosely thrown over top. She has her sword drawn, but her eyes go wide when she sees Daniel. “What’s his status?”

“Alive. Barely, Commander. He’ll need a potion. But… Should we…?”

“Do it.”

“Yes, Commander.” The brewing question doesn’t need to be asked. Someone on base needs medical attention.

Just as the lead medic is withdrawing a healing potion vial from her bag, Daniel’s left hand snaps up, and he groans. The other two medics seize his hands, trying to calm him. “Calm down, Daniel! We’re helping you! Relax!”

He coughs as the lead medic starts tugging on the cap. Daniel chokes out, “No… It… It won’t… work…”

The medic halts, and she glances at Leiwelles.

“Wh-What do you mean?”

Daniel groans. “No… magic…”

“You don’t need an affinity for potions, Daniel. It’ll make you feel better and save your hand. Just relax, and…”

“No. It’ll be wasted… I’ll be…” Daniel tries to climb to his feet, but the medics pin him down. “You’re in no condition to move!”

The lead medic looks up at the Commander once more. She’s staring down at them for a long time, thinking deeply. She says calmly, “Daniel, we have no reason to believe it won’t work. Potions work on all living things.”

Daniel shakes his head. “It won’t. Please, don’t waste it. I can’t afford to…” He coughs. “Pay…”

Leiwelles sighs in disgust. She orders, “Give it to him. If it works, great. If it doesn’t, then he’s no worse off.”

The medic confirms the order with a nod, feeding the potion to Daniel. He tries to resist, but the Commander orders, “Daniel, if you have any respect for me at all, drink. Prove to me it won’t work.”

He hesitates, but he reluctantly nods, and the medic is able to help him drink the potion.

It should work within a couple of minutes as the high magic content of the potion is absorbed by the body.

However, nothing happens. None of Daniel’s minor scratches close or fade, let alone his right hand.

The warriors watching begin to murmur, as it’s yet another thing that shouldn’t be possible.

Leiwelles says with a slight humor, “Well, at least we can confirm he’s not an undead.”

Daniel coughs. He remarks, “Tastes like… [rasp]berries.”

She chuckles. She asks, “Any signs of attack?”

“Negative, Commander!” call the watchstanders from above.

“Fell… river…” murmurs Daniel.

“What?”

“I fell… into the river… climbed out… downstream.”

She sighs. “Understood. But, we still need to take caution. Take him to the infirmary. Do what you can to clean and dress his wounds. I want two guards watching him at all times. Don’t let him do anything foolish.”

The medics nod. “Understood, Commander.”

Leiwelles and Jeonoir watch as the medics retrieve a stretcher from the youngest’s bag, and they load Daniel onto it. With a couple of spare soldiers, they carry the otherworlder to the infirmary.

“How long was he sitting outside?”
“I… We heard a thump, and challenged him as soon as we discovered he took a seat against the wall. He just kept trying to tell us who he was and that he was returning. It was no more than a few minutes once we knew he was there.”

“And, you’re sure about that?” The Commander looks directly at the Lieutenant. 

“Y-Yes, Commander! I admit I was suspicious at first, but as soon as I realized it was a medical emergency, I ordered the signal.” She flinches, “Oh! He did also speak in a language I didn’t understand. When I asked him, he said ‘ING-lesh’, I think. Then, ‘Sorry. I’ll wait here.’”

“Wait here? For what?”

Jeonoir looks away. “‘First bell’, is what he said.”

It’s no secret that Daniel’s no one’s favorite person, and he’s spent more than one night outside of the fort thanks to hostility. It borders on cruelty, since he doesn’t fight back or speak harshly or complain. In fact, he was so quickly accustomed to it, he adheres to the rules to avoid additional confrontation.

Leiwelles murmurs, “He genuinely believes none of you are trying to kill him. Stand down from emergency response. Watchstanders, resume the watch.” She walks back towards the barracks building, carrying her sword in a relaxed position.

**************

Gwenesphia jogs into the infirmary. During the emergency call, her duty is to bolster manning of the west wall, which is opposite of where the emergency was. However, word spread quickly. Once they were allowed to stand down, she bursts through the door, asking, “Is it true!?”

“We’re busy! Get out!”

She sees the three medics preparing treatments and wraps for the human otherworlder as he lies on the treatment table. She sighs in relief. It’s definitely him. “C-Can I just…”

“No. He’s unconscious. Get out, or I’ll report you, Lieutenant.”

She flinches, but she nods obediently. But, there are two soldiers standing in the back of the medical room. “Wh-What about them?”

“Take it up with the Commander. Last warning.”

“I’m going! Apologies.” She retreats from the room and takes a deep, relieving breath before exhaling all of the residual stress. He was pretty beaten up, but he’s still alive. Her guilt would eat at her for a long time.

Treia, like Gwen, was at the west wall. Her watch ended at midnight, but she normally sleeps during the morning and day, so she would normally be awake at this time. However, curiosity drew her to the infirmary, where the odds have been beaten. Gwen gives Treia a reassuring nod. “It’s him.”

Treia is silent for a moment. She nods her head once. “Good. I’ll be able to thank him and go back to hating him with a clean slate.” She walks away swiftly, and Gwenesphia smiles.

She makes her way back to sleep so that she can wake up bright and early. She makes her way first thing to the Commander’s office, meeting the senior officer as she is arriving at her office in the morning. “Lieutenant. About to go on watch, aren’t you?”

“Yes, Commander. I’ll keep it brief.”

“What is it?”

“I was kicked out of the infirmary last night before I could check on Daniel, but there were two others that were in the infirmary who weren’t kicked out.”

“You his wife?”

“What? N-No. I just…”

Leiwelles sighs, “I ordered two guards on Daniel at all times to ensure he doesn’t try to do anything foolish.”

“Commander-...”

“Not sinister. I don’t want him trying to wander around and work. That’s all.”

“Oh…” Gwen straightens her posture, “Commander; request guard detail for Daniel.”

“Any particular reason why?”

“He’s always been polite with me. I’d like to find out what he’s hiding.”

Leiwelles sits down at her desk, stretching and yawning briefly. “Fine. You can have second watch. AFTER standing your gate watch.”

“Of course, Commander. Thank you.”

“What is it?” Leiwelles leans to look past Gwen, and Gwen looks behind her. Treia flinches, and she’s standing at the door, which was left open. “I-... Commander, I…” She glances nervously at both of them.

The Commander sighs. “Take your leave, Lieutenant. Sergeant, you may enter.”

Treia enters, but she says, “A-Actually… I’d like to… speak to both of you, Commander.”
Curious, but aware of the hesitancy. She states, “Close the door.” 

Treia nods in reply, and she closes the door. She then approaches the desk as close as she’s allowed, standing alongside Gwen. “Commander, Lieutenant;... I believe Daniel is in danger.”

Leiwelles scoffs, tying her hair into her usual bun. “I read the logs, Sergeant. Are you sure you wish to play this game?”

Treia looks down. “I intentionally locked him out because of curfew on two occasions, Commander. I wanted to force him to use his magic.”

Leiwelles sighs in disgust. “As was proven last night, Daniel doesn’t have any magic capacity whatsoever.”

“I know, Commander. I acknowledge what I did. However, I’m truly concerned that he’s in danger now.”

“Why the change of heart?”

She looks away for a moment, her triangular cat ears flicking nervously. “I didn’t know he was actually useful. I felt guilty using the hot water and air.” She looks at Gwenesphia, murmuring, “I… I think… someone is going to try to kill him.”

“That’s a bold claim, Sergeant. I assume this won’t be like the storehouse.”

She looks down. However, she quickly looks up, saying, “I was right, though! He did break into the storehouse.” She flinches under the Commander’s gaze narrowing. However, she stands her ground, “I think someone pushed him over the cliff in hopes he wouldn’t make it. Recon Team Sable reported an apparent scuffle that matches his disappearance.”

“Do you have any idea who, Sergeant?”

“I… I have only suspicions, Commander. I believe others can corroborate my suspicions, but it’s… regrettably, only hear-say.”

Leiwelles sighs. “Who was it?”

Treia squirms, but the Commander growls, “You started this, Sergeant. Speak.”

“Bellstram… said some suspicious things.”

“Bellstram? And, what did she say?”

Gwenesphia’s eyes widen, and Commander Leiwelles notices, looking at her. “So, you heard it, too?”

Gwen flinches, and she squeaks, “Oh! I’m not sure if Sergeant Treia means the same conversations, but Bellstram has made several comments about Daniel’s negligence causing him to slip down a hill and fall into the river over the cliffs. She made these remarks the day he failed to return.”

Treia agrees with a nod. She adds softly, “She had also forgotten about her shoulder injury when I asked about it. And, when I thought at first that Daniel had attacked her, she seemed hesitant to agree… She then made an excuse and has avoided me since. She was also surprised when I told her that the Recon Team’s report indicated Daniel’s trail. I think she thought he was still in the controlled zone.”

Leiwelles studies both of them for a moment. She murmurs thoughtfully, “She was on a free-scout on the same day…” She pages through old logs, finding the entries. She nods as her memory is proven correct. 

However, she states the obvious. “Unfortunately, Bellstram is not the only woman on this base that seems to want Daniel dead.” She makes a point of looking directly at Treia, who looks down and confirms with a disappointed nod.

After a moment of silence as Leiwelles thinks, she asks cautiously, “Sergeant; have you confronted Bellstram about this matter?”
“No, Commander.”

“Good. And, have you confessed your regrets to anyone else but the two of us?”

“No… Commander?”

“I see. Then, I’d like you to express your disgust that he survived. The more vitriolic, the better. I want you to create suspicion that YOU were the one who arranged it. Naturally, you weren’t in the logs that day as departing or returning, but all the better.”

“C-Commander?”

“You dislike him anyway, correct? I’m only asking you to express your feelings. Just do it in a way that makes you the prime suspect. I want to see who will object to my next move.”

Gwen murmurs cautiously, “Commander,... This sounds extremely dangerous…”

“For Daniel, yes? We’ll survive without him. Unfortunately, everyone knows you’re relatively soft on him, Lieutenant, so just man your watches as laid out. Sergeant? Do you have any other questions?”

Treia glances at Gwenesphia, and then looks to the Commander once more. She asks nervously, “Commander… Do… YOU want Daniel gone?”

The Commander smirks cryptically. “I can’t exactly claim joy at his return. Take your leave, Ladies. I’ll determine the final watchbill soon.”

The two women glance at each other, and they bow, leaving the room.

*******************

Daniel walks wearily out of the infirmary after the medics leave for dinner. He’s not supposed to leave, but he’s able to walk and move. His hand wasn’t quite as bad as it looked and felt, but his fingers are still gravely tender and aching constantly, and his body is still sore all over.

Daniel reaches the Quartermaster before she closes up the storehouse, and the night watch sergeant is present. He’s pretty sure her name is Treia. She twitches with a start when she sees him, but she scowls. 

“You? Why’d you have to come crawling back, huh? Do you even HAVE a reason to live anymore?”

Daniel keeps his practiced blank expression. He replies softly, “Apologies. I suppose I don’t. Please excuse me, Sergeant. Quartermaster, can I get my ration for the night?”

The Quartermaster replies quietly, “Sure…” She retrieves one of the ration packs and hands it to him. Daniel nods politely. “Thank you. I’ll take my leave now.”

Daniel starts to walk away, and Treia snarls, “Hey! Is that all you’ve got to say for yourself? You think I LIKE having to watch over my shoulder? Huh? You realize this is a military fortress, right? How are we supposed to be expected to do our jobs if we have to constantly worry about being dragged off by scum like you? You should’ve done both worlds a favor and stayed in that river. At least then, you could feed nature.”

Daniel is quiet for a moment, and she glares at him. Daniel replies softly, “If I tried to explain how I was saving her life, would you believe me?”

“And why should I, huh? You, a disgusting weed, saved a princess’s life? You’re pathetic to lie about that.”

“Then, I have nothing else to say.”

“Huhhh? That’s it? You’re giving up that easily? Maybe you are just scum.”

He is quiet for a moment, and she crosses her arms, though her feline ears lay flat to the sides. “Your guilty conscience is obviously getting the best of you now, but you still crawled back here. Why? Huh? Just waiting until you can rationalize…”

“She drowned.” She halts, and Daniel growls in the first angry tone she’s heard from him. “She drowned in the river, and everyone else gave up when she didn’t have a heartbeat. Her corset was in the way. I don’t regret what I did. I don’t care that you hate me. If you can’t stand me, get rid of me yourself. You’re right. I didn’t have the courage to stay dead.” Daniel bows, growling more softly, “I’m taking my leave.” He walks away, and Treia stares at him for a moment.

She snaps, calling out, “Y-You’re… Anyone can say anything! Just…”

He ignores her, and she seems to give up. He sighs. He eats his ration on the move, walking slowly to the smithy once more. He needs something to take his mind off of everything.

He’s been thinking everything she was saying on his own. He didn’t need to hear it, but hearing it out loud makes it even harder to deal with. He knows he did the ‘right’ thing, but would it be easier if he ceased to exist? He doesn’t add much, even if he can pretend to be an artificer for brief periods of time.

In the smithy, Daniel resumes what he had been tinkering away at most nights he could. His parts were still stashed in their corner, untouched because they serve no immediate purpose to anyone else.

He has the base parts for it forged, and he continues filing down rough spots on the moving parts. He’s making a crude bolt-action rifle. It won’t have the perfection of a carefully-machined rifle, and it certainly won’t have a proper rifling, though he did make a boring tool for getting at least some turn grooves in the barrel. If he can get the bullets to spin at all, it’ll vastly improve performance. 

It’s a quick and dirty design, and he overdesigned certain parts, because he intends to use a bullet roughly the size of a 20mm round, which is larger than a .50 caliber. Of course, he’s making all of the parts himself, so it’s not going to be perfect. However, with enough powder behind it, a thick enough barrel, and a hard enough core, his rounds should hopefully be able to penetrate even heavy armor and stone, and if his hopes pan out, potentially penetrate a dragon’s scales. Failing that, if he can hit internals when it opens its mouth to attack or roar, he might be able to stop them.

That’s the hope, anyway. He does his best to make reproducible bullets, and he mixes the black powder from various chemicals and materials he was able to scrounge around the base. Nothing about his rifle will be perfect, but if he can fire more than once, and it can take down anything larger than himself, then he’ll have succeeded. And, in any case whatsoever, it serves as a distraction to keep his idle mind and hands busy.

It’s tedious, of course, working without the use of the pads of his fingers, which are the most injured from his slip. But, he is able to work.

Daniel is making bullets when the two women who were watching over him in the infirmary finally arrive. He slipped away when they got comfortable in chairs to talk about the revolution occurring in the kingdom of Bromlund.

“Hey! Are you stupid!? You’re supposed to be in the infirmary.”

“I’m feeling much better. I’d rather work.”

“Sorry. The medics haven’t released you. Get back to the infirmary.”

“I’m almost done with this. Can I finish?”

“No. We have orders to keep you from doing anything stupid.”

“I’m just tinkering. Nothing difficult. I was going stir crazy.”

The guards sigh in disgust. “Don’t make me get the medics.”

“Why would you? Wouldn’t you rather be doing anything else?”

“Our job is to watch you. Doesn’t matter what we want to do.”

“I encourage you to watch me here. More difficult to escape, even if you sit outside.”

The other guard pats her shoulder, “He’s right. Who cares, anyways? It’s himself he’s endangering.”

“I swear I’m all right.”

The first guard sighs. “When anyone asks, we told you.”

Daniel agrees wearily, but politely. “Thank you.” He continues tinkering on the individual bullets, and the guards glance at each other awkwardly. It’s hot and stinks a little inside the smithy, so they make their way out to watch the stairs. It has the added bonus of telling anyone who might come looking where they are, including their reliefs.

And, when that time inevitably comes, the new watchstanders peek in on him, verifying that he’s still working.

“Hey! Aren’t you going to sleep?”

“Eventually. I’ll let you know.”

“Alright. No funny business. It’s hot in here. We’ll be outside.”

“Don’t mind me. I’ll be here.”

Daniel finishes twenty of the bullets, checking each one in the receiver to ensure a snug fit, and that the bolt can lock into place. Given that he’s making it with crude methods, he’s got a working device that should be able to keep him safe. If it works as he hopes, all the better. If it works half as good, just fine. If it kills him, then his problems are over.

After finishing the bullets, he tucks them into his battered shoulder bag, which he managed to return with. He’ll retrieve the rifle components if he needs it. He then heads outside, telling the two women watching him that he’s going to sleep. They nod, “About time.”

However, when he walks towards the dining hall, they ask in confusion, “What are you doing?”

“Going to my usual spot.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Can we talk later? I’m tired. All you have to do is watch me, right?”

Daniel walks to his normal spot and takes a seat against the wall of the dining hall, where the residual heat helps keep him warm.

The two watchstanders glance at each other uneasily. “Y… You’re going to sleep here?”

“Yes. Warmest spot on base. Please don’t mind me.” He lays his head back and drifts off to sleep rather quickly, given that he’s worn out.

*******************

Continue to the next chapter here:
Chapter 18: The Broken Mechanic

Chapter 16: The Weed in the Garden

“I’m telling you, Sergeant, I did inventory twice, as always. Nothing was out of place.”

“How can that be!? I know he broke in here last night!”

“I don’t know what to tell you. Inventory is exactly the same as it was when we closed up shop last night.”

“Th-... Then, he must have done something!” Treia, the gatonine night watchstander, insists passionately. It’s clear she saw Daniel doing something in the vicinity of the storehouse, but there’s no evidence anything was touched.

“We don’t have any signs of contaminating anything, and nothing was even moved.”

Gwenesphia, the morning lieutenant about to go on watch, approaches for her watch station’s rations. “What’s going on here?”

Verbeinne replies, “This one here believes Daniel broke into the storehouse last night.”

“What? Why would he do that?”

Verbeinne answers, “Well, I can say with certainty he didn’t steal anything. And he always seems to need a blanket.”

Treia retorts, “I saw him break in last night.”

“You did?” asks Gwenesphia. “Did you not raise the alarm?”

Treia flinches. “I… I didn’t ACTUALLY see him enter, but… But, I know he did! He was sneaking around, and I saw him study the door.”

“Sergeant, accusing Daniel without actually witnessing it isn’t helping anything.”
“I know what I saw, Lieutenant! Why would you defend him? He’s scheming something at night!”

“This looks like a heated conversation.” All three of them snap to attention and salute the Commander as she approaches. “Is there a problem?”

Verbeinne catches her up on the conversation so far.

“I see.”

Gwenesphia states, “Daniel doesn’t seem like the type to do that, though, Commander. He’s quiet and keeps to himself, and he seems rather polite.”

“Do you have evidence of this, Gwenesphia?”

“I… don’t. No, Commander. O-Other than any time I’ve interacted with him, he’s quiet and polite.”

Treia states, “He’s hiding something. We need to be careful.”

“We should be wary of traitors, spies, and enemies in all forms. We should not treat our allies as such without cause.” She looks specifically at Treia, who flinches. However, the Commander states without changing the target of her gaze, “Quartermaster, I’d like you to verify the cooling unit is broken before I send off the repair request.”

Surprised, Verbeinne hesitates. Leiwelles looks at her, and she flinches this time. “Uh, o-of course, Commander. But, it’s been out of service for a few weeks now, as I mentioned yesterday.”

With a nod, Leiwelles instructs, “Show me.”

The four walk into the back of the shop, and Verbeinne opens the door of the trunk-sized box with a cooling crystal powering it. She puts her hand inside, explaining, “It should be cold enough to…” She flinches, staring at the device.

Leiwelles walks forward, placing her hand inside. “I don’t understand. It feels quite cold to my hand. Should it be colder?”

“No… It’s… It wasn’t working yesterday… Commander.”

“Are you certain?” The Commander makes a point to look at Treia. “Is it possible the issue could have corrected itself?”

“N-No…” Verbeinne suddenly gasps. “Daniel…”

This surprises the other two, and Treia quickly says, “Wait wait wait! You’re trying to imply Daniel fixed that thing? It’s a magic device!”

Gwenesphia murmurs, “W-Wouldn’t that mean he has to have magic, then?”

Leiwelles walks past them, saying dismissively, “I’m a military commander, not a Magic Artificer. I just thought it might be odd that one of you claims someone broke in here, and another claims a broken device is now working again. But, what do I know?” She walks to the door, stating, “If anyone needs me, I think I’ll be taking a bath. A nice, hot bath.”

All three of the others gasp in shock together. 

Gwenesphia squeaks, “Th-then, does that mean… The barracks?”

Leiwelles smirks over her shoulder, and Treia quickly snaps, “Hang on, Commander! That’s absurd! Pardon my saying so, but if he is the one who did it, then how does no one…” She trails off. She shakes her head, asking sharply, “WHY wouldn’t he tell anyone? Why would he act so suspiciously if that’s all he was doing?”

“Why indeed?” With that, the commander leaves the storehouse, and the others glance at each other, deep in thought.

***************

It’s Daniel’s day off once more, and as usual, he is on a free-scout beyond the fortress. With permission, anyone on base can go off base to search for collectible items. It’s a little odd to Daniel, since he could be meeting up with the enemy. However, it seems the actual recon unit stays much further out, and they keep tabs on the enemies. What Daniel is allowed to do is find curiosities in the area. The trap he found ended up being one set by the recon teams, since metal glints mean kingdom soldiers, and as such, can attract lower-intelligence demon soldiers.

Daniel uses his notebook to continue learning the plants of the area. He doesn’t have everything written down, but he can identify useful plants and toxic ones, at least with a fair amount of accuracy. Not that he’s putting everything he finds into his mouth, of course, but there are a few different kinds of berries and other fruit-bearing plants that are edible. Most aren’t very lucrative to turn in, but they are a nice addition to meals and snacks.

As Daniel is walking, though, he finds a rather steep hill overlooking a sheer drop, over which Daniel can’t see from his distance created by the hill. He murmurs to himself, “Must be where the river flows into the mountains. Better keep my distance.”

He hears a twig snap somewhere behind him, and he sighs. “Of course I jinxed myself.” He whirls, looking for whatever’s stalking him. He’s hit before he can see it, though, and he coughs. His stomach floats as it sinks in, and he grits his teeth. He wants to shout curses, but he braces for the first of many impacts.

He slides on his back down the steep hill, quickly being swallowed by tumbling dirt and leaves knocked loose by his fall, and he is unable to see what hit him. Daniel tries to turn himself around with his hands, and he can feel the terrain tearing away at his skin and clothes. Suddenly, he feels himself drop once more. He’s gone over the cliff. 

Daniel feels his breath give way, again preventing him from fully screaming or cursing. Instead, he can only grunt and wince in pain as he tries to gain his bearings. He tries to collect a breath, but it’s just as quickly snatched away from him as he slams the water that was below him.

He can feel his mind blank out, and what little sense he has fears he’s going to black out. However, light fills his eyes once more, and his lungs are on fire. The wind was knocked out of him, but he’s alive, and as far as he can tell, he can move. He must’ve hit a deep enough portion of the river. Though, his entire body is in pain now, so it’s hard to say.

Regardless, he quickly aligns his feet with the river bottom, finding whatever footing he can so he can kick upwards. He kicks his feet continuously, reaching for the surface with his lungs demanding he inhale.

He gasps in a breath as soon as his face breaches the water, and he coughs on what droplets of water manage to follow his lifesaving breath. He treads water for a moment as he catches his breath, looking around with a dazed fog still clouding his mind.

But, he’s able to tell he’s in the bottom of the valley from the upper mountain near Fort Peony. The river is moving at a moderate pace, so he’s covering a lot of ground beyond his control. Additionally, the water is rather cold. He’ll have to find a way out and navigate back to the fortress.

Or, he could just ride the river.

Daniel keeps his head above water, swimming as well as he can through the current towards the south side of the river, the side that the fort will be on. The present walls of the cliffs are too steep for him to even exit the water right now, but being closer to shore will be imperative once he has the option to climb out. He follows the wall of the river valley, listening for signs of rapids or the impending waterfall.

He knows there’s a shoreline near the waterfall, but he prays to himself that he can exit the water long before that. If he messes up, he’s probably not going to have any more chances.

***************

Gwenesphia stops by the afternoon watchstander station as curfew is getting closer. Daniel had already gone out beyond the gate before she learned what the Commander revealed. Daniel hadn’t mentioned any of it, but apparently, he’s the mysterious artificer that repaired the barracks central air, the bathhouse water heater, and the storehouse cooling box. Any one of those three would be achievements, and he did all of them in a few days in the dead of night, even after how poorly everyone on base has treated him. For starters, she wants to know why he’d go so far, even for people who treat him poorly.

Her relief, Lieutenant Phrea, a bovine woman with a much larger stature than anyone else, but a gentle disposition, is checking over the west gate’s logs before curfew and turnover.

“Afternoon, Phrea.”

“Oh! Gwen! Welcome back. Leave something behind?”

“No, nothing like that. I was wondering… Has Daniel returned?”

“Mmm… No, not since I took watch. He’s running out of time.”

Gwenesphia is silent for a moment. She asks, “H-Hey… Do… Do you think you could make an exception tonight? I-If he ends up being late? He’s been working pretty hard…”

“I don’t particularly care to break the rules, Gwen. Less so for someone like him. I have a sister the Princess’s age. What he did…”
“What if… It’s not what we think?”

“Then he’s got some bad luck. I have no interest in forgiving him because he can make excuses. And, I’m certainly not going to break the rules. I’m sorry, Gwen. If he’s not back by curfew, he’s spending the night outside.” Phrea turns away, making it clear she’s done talking about it. She’s not in the wrong, of course. But, Gwen was hopeful.

She murmurs softly, “He’s the one that fixed the bathhouse.” She walks away, paying no mind when Phrea tenses and glances over her shoulder with surprise.

The hours tick by, and still no sign of the strange otherworlder. Treia is passing by with her watch team to go relieve the watch for the night, and she spots Gwen sitting on the well. She approaches, saying softly, “Lieutenant? Shouldn’t you be headed to bed soon?”

Gwenesphia looks up at her from her seated position. “I’ve been… worried.”

“Worried? About what?”

The gatonine lieutenant looks away. “Daniel still hasn’t returned. He’s not even outside the gate like the other times. He’s never been this late before.”

Treia cocks her head. “Did he leave for an overnight trek?”

“No. He said he’d be back today. Everyone else already returned. Bellstram had to go to the infirmary because she injured her shoulder. She said she was attacked by a pig…”

“A pig? Like a wild boar? Out here?” Treia finds that a little strange.

Gwenesphia nods as she answers, “That’s what she said. Knocked her against a stone, apparently.”

Treia sighs, crossing her arms. “If you’re worried about the weed running into it, I’m sure it’ll be fine. Things that don’t belong are the hardest to get rid of.”

“I wish everyone could be a little nicer to him… I don’t think what they said about him is true.”

“Why are you so insistent on that? Why would a King lie? If anything, since that King is apparently an otherworlder as well, I’d assume Daniel would’ve just had it all covered up for him.”

“Why would he stay here, though? Knowing how much so many of us dislike him. I was hoping to ask him.”

“Who knows? It couldn’t possibly be that what the report said is TRUE and he’s just searching for an opportunity. I’m sure all of those fixes were just so we’d let our guard down. Then, one of US is who’s missing.”

Gwen is quiet for a moment. 

Treia sighs. She murmurs, “I don’t want it to be true. I don’t want it to be him… I slept like a baby today… I hate it that HE’S the one to thank…”

Again, Gwen is quiet, and Treia grumbles, “Geez… Listen, if he returns, I’ll let you know right away, alright? I’m not letting him in past curfew, but I’ll tell you right away.” She adds as she walks towards the gate she mans, “Besides… Idiot wouldn’t ‘break in’ anyways, even when someone opens the door for him.”

“Y-You did that?”

“W-... Well, he was right. I was going to turn him in if he did… But he didn’t even TRY to accept my fake hospitality!”

Gwenesphia frowns. “It’s times like this I’m surprised he stayed more than a week…”

Treia frowns. “Listen… It’s not like I feel great now… I wanted him gone, but not like this… I’m sure he’s just lost. He’ll find his way back eventually. The mountains are easy to find, and so is the river. If he can’t navigate back with those two giant clues, there’s not much any of us can do to help him.” She finally turns and starts walking, “I gotta go relieve the watch. I’m taking my leave, Lieutenant.”

Night falls, and Gwenesphia checks one last time. She doesn’t even make it to the gate before Treia spots her, and the night watchstander shakes her head. Worried, Gwenesphia reluctantly turns in for the night. She has her own duties to upkeep for the fortress, and she can’t shirk them for personal reasons. Especially because, until this particular day, no one REALLY had any concern.

The next morning, Gwenesphia reluctantly gets her breakfast before watch. As the soldiers of Fort Peony are slowly filing in, Hertalma steps out of the kitchen area to call out, “Hey! Anyone seen the scumbag? He’s late again.”

Gwenesphia twitches, but she says nothing. She hasn’t, so calling out would only be disruptive. And, no one else answers, prompting a few hums of, ‘No,’ as they carelessly continue eating.

Bellstram chides sourly, “Idiot probably fell off a cliff when his back was turned. He’s a city weed. He doesn’t belong out here on the frontier.”

A few of the women snicker. It hasn’t spread beyond the three others that were present when the Commander revealed that Daniel repaired the various things that came up working mysteriously; things almost everyone uses regularly, and no one really wanted to dig down to the answer. The first question the Commander asked, ‘Is it possible it started working on its own’ was because it’s possible. Magic devices can be finicky. Only artificers and artisans know how they truly work. But, if Daniel was the one who repaired them, it also gives credibility to the doubt that he has no magic, like he claims.

Hertalma retorts coldly, “Well, if any of you do see him, tell him to report to the Commander. I’m done with him.” She returns back into the kitchen. This time, Gwen moves to say something, but she stops herself, to her shame. She’s still not certain, herself, if Daniel really was the one to repair the devices. But, he’s the only one who fits. Especially given the incident with Treia trying to catch him breaking into the storehouse. The Quartermaster staff went over every item, but found no signs of tampering. The only evidence anyone had been in the room was a slight scuff of dust on the surface of the cooling box’s bench, and it could have occurred during inventory.

Gwen finishes her meal in silence, making her way to watch. She relieves as normal, but begins pouring through the logs. A handful of people come and go into the demon wildlands every day. She finds the log entry of Daniel departing on a ‘single day’ trek, written by her alternate when she’s off. However, no matter how thoroughly she searches the pages, including blank pages, she can’t find any signs that he returned. No one reported finding any of his equipment. No one reported finding a body. No one reported any blood. True, it’s only been one day, but Daniel doesn’t seem like the type to desert his post. He also wouldn’t go beyond the recon perimeter.

Her entire watch passes by slowly. She does her best to wear her usual expression, but her concerns are only growing. As soon as she’s able, she heads to the Commander’s office.

The secretary smiles and nods at her, meaning the Commander is free. She knocks on the door.

“Enter.”

Gwen walks in, saluting crisply. “Commander, Lieutenant Gwenesphia. I… Permission to speak freely, Commander.”

“Go ahead.” Leiwelles is studying a map that she received via letter from the main command post east of the mountains. It shows arrows depicting troop movements, but the entirety of the troop movements are internal to the allied kingdoms. At a glance, it looks like a few of the other kingdoms are invading Bromlund.

Gwenesphia pays it no mind, though. Their duty is to the frontier, and the only reason they’re receiving an outdated troop movement map is to show a glance of what might be delaying shipments, troops, or anything else. Fortunately, Fort Peony’s remoteness and preparedness keep it from being immediately affected by smaller shipping delays.

“Commander, I… I think we should send someone to look for Daniel.”

“Has anyone searched the base?” asks the Commander without apparent interest.

“Not… thoroughly, no. But, he was never logged back in. And, he won’t violate curfew. I… heard someone tried to offer to let him in last time.”

“Oh? Who was it?”

“I don’t know, Commander. I think it might have been a test, in all actuality, and he passed.”

“Hmm. Good to hear. But, what makes you think he needs found?”

“He was supposed to report back yesterday before curfew. He was even late for his morning duties…”

“Yes, that I heard. Has it crossed your mind that he deserted, Lieutenant?” Leiwelles looks up finally, and Gwen looks to the side.

“I don’t think he has it in him. Not on the wildlands side.”

Leiwelles sighs, turning towards her window. She asks with a little coldness, “What’s he to you? Has he been sweet talking you, Gwenesphia?”

“What!? No! Of course not, Commander! I just… The more and more I see, the more I think… What if someone framed him in his kingdom? What if the Princess…”

“Careful now. It’s not wise to accuse royalty of anything.”

“Apologies. Regardless, I can’t help but wonder, Commander.”

Commander Leiwelles turns around, pacing her office. “I received a letter yesterday, after everything that happened. The timing couldn’t have been more or less perfect. Would you like to know what it told me?”

“I… If you think I’ll benefit from it, yes Commander.”

“I do. It was a reply to a request for information. I’ve got some contacts in most kingdoms of the Alliance. Friends, mercenaries, nobles. When I asked about Daniel, the reply I got was curious. Do you know when Daniel was summoned?”

“Not exactly, Commander. I had heard Mornistae performed a divine summon about a year ago.”

“Mm-hmm. Now, look outside.”

Gwen is confused at first, but she walks to the window, peering outside. “Look at the well.”

Again, Gwen doesn’t understand, but she looks at the well. A few people are drawing water from the pump. It was the first real time Gwen talked to Daniel like a person. She asks softly, “What am I looking for, Commander?”

“That pump that we all use every day; do you know when that was invented?”

Gwen shakes her head. But, she realizes why the Commander must be asking. “Wait… Daniel?” She looks at Leiwelles, who smirks and nods.

“Curious, isn’t it? Is it considered invention if it was a historical technology from another world?”

The gatonine lieutenant’s ears flick. She stares blankly at the Commander. “H-... How?”

“That’s not all I received in this letter. It seems he pioneered many things and proved capable of most magical device repairs, excluding crystals, as he’s claimed to me. And yet, the one thing he doesn’t deny are the written facts about why he was sent here. I, too, think there’s more to it. However, I can’t ignore the fact that someone accused of such things was stationed here, of all places.”

“Commander! If we keep treating him like a criminal, then what incentive does he have…?”

“Regardless; Daniel knew the risks going beyond the gates. We’re not responsible for him during that time. He will have to return on his own or not at all. If he returns, we’ll know he’s not a deserter. If no one else dies, we’ll know he’s not lying in ambush for those who’ve most likely earned his ire. If he never returns, then… Well, I suppose we’ll never actually know, will we?” She turns back to her desk and her paperwork, stating, “Is there anything else?”

“Wh-... What if he’s hurt and can’t return, Commander?”

“If we receive a report and a location, I’ll decide then. Until such a time, I expect the utmost professionalism to continue.”

Gwen bows, “Of course, Commander.”

“Good. Then, starting tomorrow, there will be no more free scouting until further notice. You may take your leave.”

“C-...”

Leiwelles scowls at Gwenesphia, who flinches. “Did I say something foolish, Lieutenant?”

“N-... No, Commander. I just…”

“You know how many soldiers go looking for others and join the lost? More than I care to count. I pride myself in being no great fool. If you disobey me, do it at your own peril. Now go. It sounds like someone else has something to talk about.”

Gwenesphia hesitates, but she reluctantly bows once more and makes her way out. She passes by the reconnaissance squad leader. They’re about to rotate out the recon teams to give the active teams a break. The demons don’t often make any attacks on Fort Peony, but it’s important to stay alert.

However, Gwenesphia is stuck. Commander Leiwelles, the commanding officer of the fort nicknamed ‘The Flower Garden’, just definitively said that Daniel is on his own. For a moment, Gwen had thought the commander was at least hospitable to Daniel, if not harboring some genuine respect. However, that hypothesis was just obliterated.

Gwen knows she should still be cautious, but something about everything doesn’t sit right with her. She grew up being taught not to blindly trust any one of her senses without hearing what her heart and soul each have to say. And, both of them agree that something is off.

Unfortunately, her options are limited.

************

Daniel lays sprawled out on the boulder along the raging river around ten yards away from the fall edge of the waterfall he saw on his way to Fort Peony. He almost escaped the river much further upstream, but he slipped back into the water when a log floating down the river caught his pant leg.

Now, he’s gripping a boulder with all of his strength, soaking wet and shivering as water dribbles from him. It’s all he can or wants to do right now; cling to the rock he was able to drag himself onto, and try to catch his breath and warm up in the brief amount of sunlight. His right hand burns, mainly in his fingers, where he partially ‘degloved’ his hand, detaching the skin from the under layers and nearly pulling it from his hand entirely as he was slipping away from the rocks he had first climbed onto.

He coughs. His ribs ache, his lungs burn and are still trying to expel excess moisture. He couldn’t scream if he tried; his throat is hoarse and sore. His muscles feel like melted jelly from treading water and swimming for so long. He coughs, murmuring to no one in particular, “I dunno who the heck would do that in a barrel… Braver souls than I…” He lays his face on the boulder, still clinging to the boulder with his whole body.

After the sun sinks behind the mountains, he finally wearily climbs to his feet on the boulder, staying in a low crouch to move towards the main shore. The “road” is actually below him, barely visible from his current location. There is a small wooded area at his level, obscuring the slope or cliffs that he’ll have to cross to reach the road. 

Daniel makes his way through the wooded area, climbing downward carefully when he can. He has to be careful. He wraps his right hand with rags when the air makes it feel like it’s freezing, and he has to keep it close to his abdomen just to avoid excruciating pain. If he falls, he’ll likely go into shock, assuming he doesn’t faint anyways. As far as he can tell, he’s not bleeding profusely anywhere, and though he’s light-headed, he is able to drag one foot in front of the other and keep himself upright and awake for now.

Once he’s in eyesight of the road, he walks west towards the fort. Even if he wanted to, he wouldn’t make it anywhere else without starving or dying. At least at the fort, he has a chance. He trudges slowly, careful not to overexert himself in this precarious state. His internal clock is suggesting that it’s almost nighttime, but he doubts he’s going to make it to the fort tonight. In fact, he has no idea how long he’s been gone. He’s lost time several times as he was climbing to the road, let alone escaping the river. He might’ve fallen unconscious on the boulder that he pulled himself out on. He has no idea.

All he can do is try to survive. Or, failing that, at least he tried.

******************
Continue to the next chapter here:
Chapter 17: The Strange Occurrences Around Fort Peony