Fallout : Equestria - New Roam Innovatus

by Delvius

Chapter XI - Making Ready

Chapter XI
Making Ready
"He is best secure from dangers who is on his guard even when he seems safe."

The tension was suffocating.

We hadn't gotten too far away from Road Town before I finished my report and sent it on to Vesperius. My one distraction from the volatile situation had run its course. And so I sat, wordless and motionless. To my left was Skyfire, who hadn't spoken a word, and to my right the legionaries, who had their guns trained on the pegasi on the seats opposite to them. I half expected the slightest cough to turn our cramped cabin into a bloodstained and bullet-riddled metal cage. Every single person in the APC was a trained combatant, skilled in the ways of killing. A fight in here would be nightmarishly brutal.

The legionaries and the pegasi were having staring contests. The pegasi had their unsettling bug-eyed helmets, and the legionaries for their part upheld stoic, battle-ready expressions. The pegasus captain Breezetail sat opposite of me; his head turned between me and Skyfire regularly. I knew not how he was feeling of the situation. If he had his helmet off, would I see a furious and hateful glare thrown Skyfire's way? Or would it be directed at us? Would he have looked even mildly curious and reasonable, piecing together the necessity in Skyfire's actions? Perhaps in his eyes I would see fear and uncertainty for what was to come. As much as I wanted to try speaking to him to gauge his feelings of the circumstances, I felt it appropriate to wait a little longer and see if the situation would resolve itself. I knew nothing about these people, my kin from another land. Any words I spoke would likely harm rather than help.

The minutes ticked by, and I grew increasingly anxious. I was never a chatty person, preferring to let the world around me provide the comforting sounds of life. But by the gods, I'd have stood on a podium and given an hours-long speech if it meant breaking that deathly silence.

Surprisingly, my own tolerance for quiet was not the most feeble in the cabin. The centurion pulled at the collar of his armor, cleared his throat, and with anxious glances darting all around he leaned next to a legionary and spoke, "Ferva, uh... what drama is unfolding here?"

The question drew quite a few looks from both parties. I guess everyone knew the explanation to follow, if it came, would shed light on Skyfire's arguably heinous actions -- and my involvement in them. I took in a deep breath and sat still; Skyfire drew herself in, trying to look small.

"Well sir," Ferva replied, pointing the barrel of his gun over at Skyfire and at me, "That mare over there is with these pegasi. Or was, at least. See, the dignitary managed to convince her that her little group here was screwed if they kept up their pillaging. So she decided she'd turn herself and the rest of the lot over to us so's to earn some pardon and goodwill from lord Vesperius. Apparently, she plans to take on jobs to earn a keep for herself and her friends, and to further prove their non-hostile intentions. That right, dignitary?"

I shifted uneasily on my seat, feeling all the eyes on me. "I made a passing suggestion to her, yes... and she thought on it, feeling it in the best interests of her group. We had a, ah... fairly civil discussion, and came to an agreement. So yes, that's about right."

Skyfire looked over her friends... well, likely former friends, but with Skyfire's actions laid out in the open, I could finally see just how they would take the news. They avoided her eyes, turning their heads away from her. Skyfire's ears flattened down against her head, but her eyes hardened and she spoke in a low but surprisingly sure tone, "I know what I did, guys. You must hate me for it... but if you just think, we really were seriously screwed. I did what I thought was best for us. You know that, right?"

They didn't respond directly, preferring to grumble and sneer from behind their masks. Breezetail sat limply in his seat, his immobilized armor rendering him without bodily motion. If I didn't know any better, I'd have thought there was a skeleton in there instead of a pony.

Skyfire looked them over, her expression pained. Then her eyes narrowed, slowly, dangerously -- and all of a sudden she growled and leaned forward. Her eyes were puffy and red, glistening, but she let no tears fall. "Yeah, go ahead and hate me, then! I would too if I were you. Where's the fucking loyalty, right? Where's the trust? It's almost like all our years together meant nothing, right? That I'd turn us all over to a bunch of zebras just cause they said they could keep us alive -- I must be so gullible."

She trembled and bowed her head, scowling. "But... fuck, what are we if not the product of our upbringing? We wanted to change the Enclave. We wanted to get them to start treating everyone fairly, to get their heads out of their assess and see that there were others worth saving. But we're stubborn, just like them. And though we won't admit it... they've gotten to our heads. They're fucked up ideology is in us. We were ruthless, tactless, and that's what got us kicked out. Remember that?"

She was almost shouting now, and her eyes were alight with a fury the likes of which I couldn't ever fathom directing at my friends. On our side of the cabin, everyone was stunned. The centurion and his soldiers had their eyes wide, and they looked to each other as if needing confirmation that they were seeing the same thing.

"Remember that, guys? Remember on the thunderhead?" she pressed. "We were so... crazy. If it weren't for that, we could still be with our families. Begrudged, disliked... but at home. Now we're out in the wasteland, half-starved and without any plan. Yeah, we get to live by our morals now. Fucking great, right? Right?! Oh, except for the fact that our desperation was starting to drive us to the very savagery that got us exiled! Yeah, it's just great! We are living the dream baby, and that dream is... fucked! It is fucking fucked!"

At last she drew back and sat against her seat, her chest heaving. Still she shed no tears, but her eyes were wet and rippled with veins. Now, the cabin was a fairly tight place. Each occupant must sit shoulder to shoulder with one another -- that meant that my skin touched Skyfire's, and at the time, seeing the rage in her face and feeling the heat of her hide, I had every desire to squirm away.

"So excuse me if I just decided to make the best of our fucked up situation by making sure you jackasses don't starve to death cause of your own tactless fuckups! There's my loyalty -- hate me all you want, but I did what I had to do for all of you!" she finished, crossing her forehooves over her chest and huffing. She shut her eyes and sat quietly, still trembling. She started to sniff.

The pegasi said nothing, but they sat with their heads low and their bodies limp. Breezetail looked to his sides, his head turning sluggishly, and sighed. Then he too bowed his head.

I looked to Skyfire and was moved by pity. I had been in similar circumstances, but I'd never had to confront head-on the very people whom I'd 'wronged'. Marediolanon, Vesperius had told me, was glad for and inspired by my actions, despite what they may have initially felt. Skyfire had no such consolation. So I moved gently, trying to wrap a forehoof around her.

At the touch of my hoof she jerked back, glaring at me before turning away, unwilling to look anyone in the eyes or to accept any comfort. I withdrew, feeling devastated inside. Not that she was my friend, but I had hoped we were at least getting somewhere. The look she'd given me was almost one of hate, and suddenly it felt like we were back to square one.

I slumped in my seat, feeling drained. So much for the situation resolving itself.

Things had lightened up slightly by the time we arrived. Skyfire had ceased trying to bottle everything in and cried quietly in her seat, facing away from everyone. In itself, it was a depressing sight and yanked at my heart, but afterwards she was able to look us in the eyes without fiery loathing. Still, she couldn't meet my own gaze without seeming confused or annoyed.

When the door opened and the legionaries carried the immobile pegasi out and into the fields towards the Palatine hill, a small crowd gathered. Mostly they were the engineers and gardeners left behind to build roads and plant bushes and flowers, but a few of Vesperius' praetorians on patrol came to have a look. Skyfire's bloodshot eyes wandered all over, eyeing the zebras and the fields and the city around her with crookedly pursed lips and skeptical glances. Though her opinion of me seemed to have been morphed by her emotional tantrum, I was still the only Roaman she knew; and in that tumult of strange faces, she walked closely by my side, as if seeking solace in my presence.

"We're approaching lord Vesperius' tent," I said. "If you've anything to say, say it to him. And, uh... relax. He really doesn't seem like the type to pry you apart and judge you."

She nodded wordlessly, clearing her throat. I had known Skyfire for less than a day and already I had seen so much of her. Her brash and reckless attitude, her fiery fervor, her deep love for her squad that could drive her to do nearly anything... and also I was seeing a pattern. When she wasn't cocky, she was emotional -- very emotional indeed. It was too soon to say for sure, but it seemed like she would bottle things up, release... then bottle things up again, and release again. This worried me. Myst had exhibited similarly troubling tendencies, and had nearly committed suicide. The thought brought back fresh memories of Myst crazily galloping towards her death, and I shuddered.

I wanted no more of that. I wished Skyfire would come to trust me. Things were odd between us, and certainly despite my good intentions I'd had a hoof in the actions that so deeply troubled her. But I felt that if she just cleared her head and figured out how she felt, we could get past this. I was of the opinion that we could become friends, that we should become friends. After all, if not me, who else would look out for her in the strange Roaman wasteland? If she got what she wanted and suddenly worked for the Legion, who would be there to hear her troubles and to keep her company? I had freedom in the Legion, a job that ironically had no obligations. I could watch over her and help her; her, my kin, who alone among her fellows had dared to do the necessary.

As the original crowd of Legion personnel dispersed, a new congregation approached: the people of Spiderhole, all nearing me with keen curiosity. Delvius and the tribal elders led them; the former praetorian grinned and galloped quickly over, overtaking the older zebras. The rest of the people followed eagerly.

"Goldwreath!" Delvius said with relief, darting past the legionaries and their pegasi luggage, seemingly without care for the presence of other winged ponies. He got right up to me and heaved a sigh, smiling. "I know I said I'd watch things in your absence, but I really must repeat myself: I didn't actually think you'd go off on jobs for the Legion just cause I told you so. I pride myself with having initiative, but that... that was just crazy."

I smiled wanly. "You prodded me towards it, but don't take full credit. I had initiative long before I met you. We're similar like that, I suppose. The mindsets of civil servants, eh? Always making us throw ourselves into the fire..." I chuckled mirthlessly.

He gave a half-smile, perhaps sensing the twinge of bitterness in my tone. Oh, it was nothing new. I loved my job and what I had dedicated my life to, but it was so frequently marked by pain and sacrifice -- the bitter pill all guards had to swallow.

"Oh yeah, and all the good it brings us." He smirked and shook his head. Then he looked to the side and looked Skyfire up and down. He threw a quick glance over his shoulders at the other pegasi -- still being carried off to the hill, all the while under the curiosity of most of the Spiderhole congregation -- and snapped back to me and Skyfire. His eyes lit up with wonder.

"Well now, Equestrian pegasi! I never thought I'd see the day. You know, miss, your kind proved to be some real tough fighters during the war. I'd take my helmet off to you, but I don't have it. So just settle for my respect, if that's worth anything to you," he said, brimming with hospitality, his tone utterly devoid of sarcasm or spite. The friendliness of his statement made me arch a brow. Skyfire looked away but cast him furtive glances.

"Er... sure," she replied. "And thanks, I guess. Ah... uh..."

She looked over to me, her eyes seeking help. Okay, I understood: this was an awkward encounter for her. It probably would've been fine if the rest of her day hadn't been so full of stress. I cleared my throat.

"Anyway, thank you Delvius," I cut in, "For looking over things. If you'll pardon us, we've got to go. Our day... my assignment... is far from over." I grunted under my breath, my body already asking for rest. After dealing with Skyfire's predicament, I promised myself. Then I'd take a seat next to Myst and, well... blank out. I needed a few hours of no troublesome thoughts.

The zebra looked between us, and though he didn't seam eager to, he stepped aside and put on a smile. "Oh, of course. Jobs are a messy affair. And when you're dealing with Equestrians, well now, there'll be some politics involved. Better untangle that mess ASAP, right?"

He took a step back and gave a bow. "I'll take my leave, then. I've got a few plans of my own... gotta get equipped, and then busy. Legion needs all the help it can get, and this zebra's no freeloader. Farewell, Goldwreath! And to you as well, miss...?" He looked over Skyfire again.

Skyfire gave me another uncomfortable look, lightly shaking her head. I sighed and looked at Delvius, then shrugged. The zebra frowned.

"Er, yes... alright then! So, uh... I'll... catch up with you later." And with that he gave another bow, half-hearted this time, and cantered off down the hill to the main Legion camp. He threw looks back at us as he went.

I shook my head again and prodded Skyfire on towards the hill. "You needn't entertain him. He was part of something a while back, something horrible. He took the chance to escape from it. Maybe he is trying too hard to shake his past off, trying too hard to show a new him. But he means well... I think. I'm giving him a chance. And if you should encounter him often, you ought to give him one, too."

Skyfire took a deep breath and let it out, trotting up the hill, saying, "One problem at a time."

At the crest of the hill was a formation of guards, half of them assembled on each side of the entrance to Vesperius' massive purple tent. As we approached, the centurion and his legionaries threw the flaps aside and came out -- no longer in custody of the pegasi. He and I exchanged looks as we passed each other, and he gave a grateful smile and a nod. I returned the gesture, and he and his troops moved on back to the camp while Skyfire and I made for the tent.

I couldn't help but worry as we approached. Many little things conspired to tighten the tension in my gut. Chief among these were the ominous guards right outside the tent -- their black armor seemed to suck the light out of the air, and their unreadable expressions unsettled me. Their ability to block off the only exit should things turn bad in the upcoming meeting was very real, and I remembered all too well Skyfire's threat.

All that, not even including my distrust of anyone who would call themselves praetorians and then act disgracefully. I knew these weren't Imperius' lackeys; I knew I was being too judgmental. But I had seen the worse that the praetorians were capable of, even if they'd been a knock-off order that had nothing to do with the Legion. To erase that memory, I would have to see the best of Roam acting just like that: the best of Roam. Until then, I would reserve my trust and admiration. I had their symbol on my flank, and if they didn't prove themselves worthy of their title, then I at least would.

I cast the guards glances as we entered the tent, my nerves on edge. I threw aside the flaps and stepped in after Skyfire. We were greeted by the rear ends of the kneeling pegasi, who were prostrated before a long wooden table. Behind it stood Vesperius, who himself was almost almost totally hidden behind by a plethora of screens and diagrams and maps projected into the air by apparatus built into the table itself. The interior of the tent was devoid of all light save the electronic blues and reds of the holograms.

Now, the displays projected over the table were really quite complex, very detailed: the kind of stuff that would make an apparent control freak like Vesperius feel like a god in his own right. But despite all that was happening right in front of him -- the flickering and constantly-updating streams of data hovering holographically in front of his face in mesmerizing neon colors, the prostrated pegasi thrown right at his hooves, the fact that Skyfire and I were standing in plain sight? All of that didn't even seem to register to him as he stared off to the side, as if deeply analyzing a certain object on his table. A white thing, a... a coffee mug? Yes, and filled with the dark liquid, too.

For a long moment, absolutely nothing transpired in that tent. If I had to guess, Vesperius was on some five-minute staring break or something. At least I had an idea of what was going on; for Skyfire, whose whole foreseeable future was at the mercy of Vesperius, it certainly must have been an odd and gut-wrenching experience to wait to be noticed and then promptly judged. Even her friends were beginning to stir, their heads looking around and to each other as if wondering if anything at all would happen.

Then there was a beep, and Vesperius took up the coffee mug to take a sip. He allowed himself a satisfied sigh, and just like that he sat down again. This time his eyes were fixated on all the data before him, and his hooves expertly tapped away at the holographic interface. Reports piled together on one side of the table, maps hovering in the center, charts on the other end... the speed with which he organized his workplace astounded me. But we really needed his attention now.

I cleared my throat. "Lord Vesperius?"

"Hm?" He looked past one of the maps at me. "Yes, Goldwreath?"

So he knew I was here. Well he really hadn't acted like it. I wondered if I should feel insulted or if this was something I'd have to get used to.

"The job is done," I said, hoping to speed things along. "All the details were in the report."

He nodded before diving back behind his interfaces, still manipulating them as easily as ever. "Oh yes, I read it. Very interesting developments, yes, very interesting. Pegasi confirmed to be of Equestrian origin. Skyfire's proposition is interesting, and not unlike what you had to go through. You made the comparison yourself. Still, the whole report was much to take in. Had to think of ways to... proceed. How to welcome and treat the pegasi, specifically. Political introduction? No, war is two-hundred years over. No point on dwelling on that. Warm and friendly talk? Too inexperienced, didn't bother. Spent all of a minute trying to decide. Ran out of time. Had to follow my schedule; gave myself needed break and coffee dosage. Then back to work."

I groaned, rolling my eyes and almost face-hoofing. "All well and good, sir, but uh... when will you be able to tend to this situation? I think you can agree with me when I say this should be addressed soon."

"Oh, of course. Soon will be in a minute. Very important this, I know. Reorganized my whole afternoon schedule for this meeting. Still, I'm afraid I can only allocate ten minutes maximum. No needless drama or tension. I have my decisions at the ready, anyway."

His last sentence sent shock into every pegasus in that tent, me included. The Equestrians gasped and nervously murmured to each other, their former anger replaced with pure anxiety. Skyfire looked to me, her eyes wide. "He's decided already? But... but I haven't even made my case yet! How fucking comprehensive was that report of yours, huh? Are you expecting me to accept this? I don't trust some damn text to explain what happened in detail."

The glare she gave me was as piercing as a knife and hot as flame. I was at a loss for words; I understood her apprehension. I would have demanded to make my case, too. But actually, I had been comprehensive in my report. In it was everything I knew about Skyfire and her squad -- yes, enough for Vesperius to make conclusions. I just didn't think he'd actually do it. I'd expected him to at least hear her out. What was I supposed to tell Skyfire now?

I swallowed and stared her down. "Comprehensive enough," I said sternly. "But I am on your side here. I didn't expect him to reach conclusions already. Just trust me when I say he'll be fair."

That didn't sit well with her at all, and she opened her mouth to express herself. But at that moment Vesperius called, "Skyfire, step forward."

He was looking straight at us now, all the holographic interfaces sent to the sides of the table. The gap in the middle gave us clear sight of him as he sat, leaned back casually, coffee in hoof.

Skyfire looked between us repeatedly before giving me a scowl and stepping forward. Her friends had their eyes on us, and they raised their voices to project disparate motivations. It seemed like some, at least, had accepted the inevitable and were hoping for the best; others were furious still, calling Skyfire out as a traitor. And still others just shook their heads and lamented quietly their own grievances -- wishing things were different, that their fortunes were otherwise. But whatever it was they all said, the fact was that they were here now, and they had to deal with whatever was to follow.

Skyfire got right up to the front of the table, giving Vesperius a tense look. Vesperius raised a brow and looked her over. I instinctively put a hoof on my gladius, just in case.

Skyfire cleared her throat. "Sir, please at least listen for a moment," she said with surprising restraint. Vesperius brought up his mug and took a drink. "My squad and I, we really didn't mean to do anything destructive here. We were just... desperate." She fiddled with her hooves. "I mean, we did everything we could to not go there, but... but we had to. So if it takes anything to fix what we've done, I claim responsibility. I can work. I'm fit enough. They aren't. That's just simple facts."

Vesperius nodded and shrugged. "All well and the same, my decisions are simple and final," he said plainly, and Skyfire's ears flattened against the back of her head. She looked hurt that her plea hadn't even given him pause.

"Oh, don't look so devastated," Vesperius said, his tone sincere -- but with the way he partitioned his time, and apparently even his emotions, it was hard to tell how sincere his sincerity was.

"Despite what you and your friends may fear, I'm actually not going to obligate you to render service to make up for your wrongs. You will be held not as prisoners in some cell, but in a medical ward as injured and malnourished soldiers in need of recovery -- because, and I dare you to tell me I'm wrong, that is exactly what you are. You will be maintained here, nursed back to health. Your armor and equipment will be tended to. Yes, even the skytank that I know you left out there, unmentioned to Goldwreath, hidden perhaps under rubble or in some basement. And then in a few weeks time, I will release you from my 'custody', resupplied, and free to do as you wish. I would suggest against going back out into the wasteland, but if you so decide, then by all means. I'll not keep you."

He lifted up his coffee for a drink. "Does that sound fair?"

My jaw dropped. Skyfire's jaw dropped. And though I couldn't see see their faces, I was damn sure the other pegasi had their jaws down, too.

One of the pegasus mares spoke. "I'm sorry, what?" she asked, clearly dumbfounded.

"Hm?" Vesperius turned to her. "What? Oh, you mean what I just said? I meant every line, my dear, in case you were wondering."

"But why?" she pressed.

Vesperius shrugged. "A number of reasons, some purely technical, others... moral in nature. You attacked Road Town, a settlement outside of Legion jurisdiction -- hence, you perpetrated no crime against the power I represent. If anything, you ought to be judged by the people whose homes you destroyed. But Road Town, well now, Road Town... they are a strange bunch. They don't accept our authority, but leave it to us to deal with affairs that concern them. They are Roamans, of course, and I have not the heart to abandon them. Still... most irritating. Believe me, your incursion was not the first event they asked for help with."

He shook his head. "Whatever the case, they left your fate to me when they allowed Golwreath here to take you away without so much as a single line of protest. Those are the technical reasons. As for morals? Well, I am not a condemning person. I don't use my power to cause suffering, or at least I don't want to. I can't stand the thought of it. I have a set of values that would have me give everyone what I am giving you now... but of course that is impossible. I can certainly try, but the Legion would be stripped of all of its resources, reduced from a wasteland-reclaiming fighting force to a glorified charity office. And the good we would do then would be short-term."

He looked them over. His surprise offers had earned him their full attention. And so he continued, "But to seven foreigners in need of aid -- without a home, without direction, and without a plan for the future -- I can spare at least my personal account. That would give you what you need without compromising my army's taxed supplies. I think it's a win-win. Well, not for me, but that's beside the point."

Surely I wasn't the only one who'd heard that. This was not my council; I had no role here, and so I kept quiet. But Skyfire must've been wondering the same thing as me when she asked, "Your... personal account?"

Vesperius smiled wanly. "Yes... yes, my personal account. My own money." He leaned back in his seat, tapping his forehooves together. "Make no mistake, Skyfire, there are plenty here who would have you killed or tortured. And not just for what you have done today, but what your nation has done before, too. I suspect the same animosity still lingers in Equestria. But that hatred has no place in me. It is a distraction, and I have no time for such nonsense. I would reestablish the friendship our people once had, for the wasteland is sorely lacking in kindness. And so if it takes every last denarius in my account to properly treat the descendants of friends of old, then it will take every last denarius in my account. That, dear Skyfire, is just simple facts. The facts of me, laid out for you, so you needn't ask me the why's. They are what they are; take them as you will."

Having said his piece and ended with finality in his tone, Vesperius brought all the displays back to the center of the table. His work resumed, and he was engulfed in a holographic sea of data.

We, meanwhile, were silent. I had no hoof in the matter, of course. Vesperius' offers were given to Skyfire and her friends. It was up to them to accept. But all the while I stared into the holograms, catching glimpses of Vesperius, and I couldn't help but be moved to admire his incredible generosity. I had expected him to be fair, not totally selfless just because he wanted to be. I supposed that, squeezed somewhere between the confines of his beloved schedule, was a person deeply ingrained in his morals.

At that moment, my respect for him skyrocketed. I no longer doubted his sincerity.

Skyfire looked to her squad, her eyes begging for advice. The shock must have overtaken them, because for a moment they didn't even move. But then they gave each other eager nods, giggling gleefully and letting out deep sighs.

"We're saved," one of them sniffed, shaking his bowed head. "We're gonna... gonna live. Bless you, Celestia! Bless you..."

That was all that Skyfire needed. She smiled and turned to the holograms that shrouded Vesperius. "We are truly, truly grateful," she said shakily, her eyes seeming to go wet, "And are more than happy to accept. Thank you. Thank you so, so much."

"You are welcome," the zebra replied, unseen behind his data. "Now, if you plan on benefitting from my offer, you ought to go outside and let my guards know. They'll take you and your friends to the appropriate facilities. Enjoy your stay."

Skyfire turned around, glowing with joy and relief. She passed by me and gave me a look-over, her eyes soft and kindly for the first time ever. After the smoldering anger and simmering suspicion I'd had to deal with the past few hours, this was a most welcome change. I smiled back, still wrapping my head around how incredibly well the whole meeting had gone. It was one of those few times things too good to be true actually came to be, and she knew it.

She took a deep breath and went out. Moments later, she and her friends were being brought down the hill to a smaller set of tents situated a ways off from the main Legion camp -- judging by the big red tent in the middle, I was sure it was the medical station. Same place as Myst was being treated in. I watched them for a moment.

"Goldwreath," Vesperius called, and I turned. Still hidden behind all the holographic interfaces, he said, "We will talk later tonight. There are things that need to be discussed. But for now, know that you did well -- and be assured, also, that I'm going to make good on my promises. They will be safe here, as will the people of Arachnia. I know you're very emotionally invested in all of this. I am too, though I often don't seem like it. So I suppose my statement is affirmation to both of us."

I nodded. "Of course, sir. I'll take my leave."

But I lingered for a moment, and finally spoke. "Sir?"

"Hm, huh? What?" came his reply. He was obviously starting to get busy all over again. "You're still here? Surprising."

"I just want to express my own gratitude, sir. I was driving myself insane worrying about what could have happened. But you handled it well, far better than I had hoped. Nothing went wrong that could have... and you have displayed your quality, and it is remarkable indeed, if I may say. I know I was the one with a job, but... very well done, lord Vesperius."

"Mm... thanks." He spoke with just a little more emotion then, as if actually taking some pride in himself, however momentary and subdued. "Well, I try. I just gave up about a month's salary; it's really not that much considering the good I'm hoping to accomplish. But the source of my good is Jupiter's good judgement. Thank him, Goldwreath. Not me. Now, please. I've work to do."

I smirked and left. Once outside I spared a moment to take a deep, revitalizing breath as the afternoon sun sank in the sky, casting shadows across the field; these were the vanguard of the approaching evening. In a few hours it would be sunset, the second I would witness in full beautiful detail since leaving Marediolanon. Oh, it had been such a long day... but at least it was over. I could take a break, and try to enjoy myself a little.

A cool breeze wafted by, as if the environment were aligned to my mood. Ridiculous, but still, I smiled. Perhaps I was lucky and I had yet to see the worst of the wasteland, but beauty was beauty regardless of the horror around it. It was to be appreciated, cherished. And at that moment my eyes beheld the majesty of Roam, slightly tarnished -- the old temples, the fields, the aqueducts high overhead. I could almost see it all restored... oh, but that would take much more time. Still, by the Legion's efforts and some initiative on the parts of others... dreams could come true. And it was an encouraging thought.

I took a moment to consider what to do next. Skyfire and her friends would need some time for themselves, if only to come to terms with each other. Meanwhile, there was a whole Legion camp just a little ways off. Despite the absence of the bulk of the local legion, the place was brimming with activity -- there were soldiers, but there were the Arachnians, too; and they were all hoofing it between the tents, standing in line for something or other, and just plain mingling. It was good that they were getting over their trauma. Or at least, were seeming to.

It was a bustling place, filled with life. I couldn't help heading over, if only to pour fuel on the flames of my euphoria. All I wanted was a good afternoon. I had earned it, I liked to think.

I trotted downhill, humming contentedly to myself.

The thing I was immediately grateful for was that I wasn't swamped by Arachnians. Delvius had said that they considered me their hero. I had no doubt that I had helped them, but I certainly hadn't made any serious sacrifices. Not like Tavish had. Those of them that saw me smiled and greeted me with lines like 'Hello, good praetorian', and that was enough for me. These people had lives to rebuild. Better that they thought on that rather than ways to reward me for actions any decent person would have done.

As I moved deeper into the camp, which was a good size of some several hundred meters in area, I became acutely aware of how many tents were barren and closed off, their flaps pegged into the ground. Clearly the very same legion that had left earlier that day had intentions of returning. The notion of continued Roaman military action in and around the capital both reassured and worried me. On the one hoof, the Roaman government was back. It was a good thing for the nation, but if Marediolanon's reaction to them was any indication, the indigenous wastelanders would be wary of soldiers touting Roaman symbols and coming to alter their lives forever. Change was scary, I understood that. But wasteland life was the lowest standard of living achievable; surely any change brought could only improve things. I hoped they would see that.

I strolled through the isles between the empty tents, leaving behind me the festive atmosphere that'd formed between the Arachnians and the off-duty legionary gardeners and engineers. They had plenty to do between them; there were shops and stalls on the outskirts of the camp, where I assumed legionaries could go to spend their salaries, and there were fenced-off areas for recreational sports like wrestling and hoofraces. I'd have mingled, joined in the camaraderie, but my mood was held up just fine by a strange sense of belongingness. I felt myself pulled deeper into the camp -- called into it by the Roaman banners, and the perfect grid-patterned organizational scheme, and the hoof-dug ditches and fortifications. I imagined the centuria urbanae of Marediolanon running hectic between these tents, acting as a small part of a larger community, unified by our common loyalty to Roam. I looked and saw not merely dirt, but paths; the places where daily routines took place, where the formations and the drills were held. I could almost smell the mornings as the soldiers here would have: the saltiness of sweat, the sweet-sour of posca, the fragrance of rushed breakfasts...

I stopped in an open area where ash was scattered over the ground -- here was where the hearths were lit, every night. I turned and looked at it all, listening to the wind-rustled flaps and seeing the dust blown into the air. Perhaps it is in the heart of all Roamans, who hold Roaman values close, to never feel without home. For Roam was home, and Roam was an idea -- immortal and indestructible, manifesting in the world constantly. I belonged to this camp. I belonged in this city. I belonged with these people. In them, I was complete. I was of them as much as I was of myself. One Roaman people, one Roaman dream... now and forever.

I took a deep breath and bowed my head, closing my eyes. Riding on the wind was a pleasant humming noise, distant but steady. I couldn't imagine what produced it, but it calmed me. It entered me and it filled me with good thoughts -- all the beautiful things of life that order and civilization could bring. There were hardly any moments ever after that could match the peace of this one.

In fact, it was so peaceful that my thoughts and senses turned into this sort of mental mush. The world slid away and phased back in, like falling asleep for but a second and waking feeling refreshed. When I came to, I knew that surely not even a minute had passed. But now I heard metal striking an anvil, and it was coming from a blue tent on the other side of the hearth-ground -- it stuck out from all the other tents, which were a dark purple. How I hadn't noticed it before, I don't know.

I cocked my head and trotted over slowly, making my way around. When I came to the front I saw a big, burly zebra. He was large and muscled, coated with sweat, and hammering away at a hunk of glowing metal upon a wide anvil. But what struck me most was his horribly disfigured face -- the bones of his muzzle were flat and had grown sideways, like he'd been smashed against a wall repeatedly as a newborwn foal. To be honest, yes he was ugly. But he didn't seem frightening. Why, he was humming a tune to himself as he worked, and he seemed in no way tense or hostile. I had the feeling that so long as I didn't treat him differently on account of his face, there'd be no problem between us. And anyway, I wasn't petty enough to base my interactions with people over their looks... though honestly, I really was tempted to turn away and move along.

Then the zebra caught sight of me and gave me a quick look with his vibrant sky-blue eyes. His jaw contorted into a curved stretch of bone and flesh that I assumed was a smile. "Afternoon, praetorian. You must be lost. Lord Vesperius' tent is back down that way." He pointed behind me with his hammer. "There aren't any patrol routes this deep into the camp. But you know... you do look new. Haven't seen you around here before, anyway. What's your name, friend?"

Well, certainly seemed friendly enough. At least, he spoke normally and was easy to understand. And really, he didn't look so bad... no worse than some of the really terrifying injuries I'd seen outside of Marediolanon.

"Goldwreath," I replied after some hesitation. He gave me a nod as he started hammering away on his work again. "And... yeah, I am new here. Well, actually, I arrived a few days ago. But I was knocked out, had no idea what was going on in the world around me. Good thing I ended up in friendly places."

"Mm, thank the gods for that, eh?" He smirked and laughed quietly. "Anyway, name's Caminus, and I'm glad you're here. Legion needs all the bodies it can put to work. You have been working for them, I assume? You sure look like it. That armor's seen better days, and so have you. What's your unit, Goldwreath?"

Now I didn't think this was the sort of information that could be classified as confidential; surely everyone here knew that Vesperius had (apparently) his own private force of individuals he could call on. At least, Vesperius hadn't made it seem like a secret. And anyway, I was among friends in this place.

"Well, friend, if you're looking to start a good conversation, would you mind me stepping into your tent? I've had a long day and I could use a seat," I said.

He motioned inwards, pointing his hammer over his shoulder. "Of course, go ahead. If you can deal with a blacksmith's humble abode, that is."

I nodded gratefully and stepped passed him, throwing aside the blue flaps of his tent. Inside, the walls were lined by shelves and racks of various armor and weapons -- swords, spears, and shields on one side; guns, ammo, and attachments on the other. And against the wall between those two sides were mannequins dressed in a plethora of ceremonial and combat uniforms. There were suits of praetorian and legionary lorica segmentata, auxiliary lorica hamata, and officer musculuta. All of excellent make, too. Clearly this zebra was a master at his art.

It was hard to believe that he lived in here, though. A small table adjacent to two seats, and an old mattress laid plain on the dirt? Very Spartan of him. I took my seat as he followed me inside, wiping sweat off his brow.

"I did say humble," Caminus said, taking his own seat.

"Place is fine, don't worry," I smiled, hoping to look sincere. "I mean, you've got a roof over your head and a place to lay down. Legion provides food, I assume? Hell, it's better than what most people would have. Oh, and about the Legion; to answer your question, my unit's the Dignitary Auxiliaries. Vesperius' private task force, apparently."

There was a pleased glimmer in his eyes. In fact, it'd been there even before I'd told him -- like he'd already known and had just asked out of formality. "Ah, that makes sense," he said. "Though you look like a praetorian, I've long known their order to keep out of actual combat. They keep to their post, no matter what, and their post is always at the side of some important person or some other. Unless said person heads off to fight, they stay in their usual routes. So the moment I saw you in that armor..." He looked me over, and I saw pride in his eyes. "Well, I knew there were only two possibilities: either new blood was brought into their ranks that deviated away from their routine, or your service to the Legion was of a different nature. Seems I guessed right. And well now, Dignitary Auxiliary... that's a position to be proud of, Goldwreath."

"Why's that? The pay good or something?" I laughed.

"Well, that's one thing," he replied, and I drew back in surprise. He shrugged. "Vesperius is a generous fellow. Spend enough time around him and you'll see. I admire a great many things about him -- his generosity, his humility... and especially his faith. He attributes the good things he does and witnesses to the gods. In our time and age, Goldwreath, for people to believe good beyond themselves is a rarity."

He took a deep breath and leaned back. "And he's another reason why your position is a prestigious one. Vesperius does his best, and selects only the best; that you are in his private force means he sees you as something more, a cut above the everyday legionary. His reputation as a fair and calm leader will lend itself to you, and likewise the merits of your actions will reflect on him. You are in a very good position, economically and socially. To squander it would be a terrible waste, but he trusts you enough to make good on your duties and be humble in your privilege. And of course, the work is good. Easy or not, it's my understanding whatever jobs he would send your way are for a worthy cause."

"I... I suppose." He rose a brow at me. "Ah, you'll have to forgive me if I seem a bit unsettled. I was inducted into his service not quite knowing the... the gravitas, the weight of my position. I accepted his offer out of my need to keep busy. I didn't know anything about the pay or the reputation... all good things, certainly, but I didn't know..."

He waved a hoof at me. "Ah, well in fairness many go into the job not knowing. Vesperius doesn't like to tell them about the privileges at first; it may cloud their decision to join, and morph their intentions. He rewards good work, but hopes not to encourage profiteering. He takes many risks, Goldwreath, and only hopes that in return those in his employ work because they believe in good like he does."

I took a moment to absorb that. "Well, I do," I said. "It is hard to say one is good without seeming self-righteous, but I never had the intention to put myself first out here. I left home, I left my people -- maybe even made them hate me for a time -- because I knew that we couldn't stay isolated forever. There was a whole world out here that needed us. Roam needed us. My only goal in this wasteland is to make it better. So I will go from place to place, do what needs to be done, to accomplish that. That is my direction. Without it, my life is without meaning."

The zebra blacksmith stared at me for a long moment. "If that is true, then you too have my respect and admiration. I have seen many of your fellows in the order, and when I look at them, I see... so little fire, so little of what Vesperius would want from them. Good people, but their hearts are elsewhere. With you, though, I sense a certain surety. And that is good. Vesperius and Roam shall be grateful... if you keep your intentions pure and carry out your work well."

I nodded. "You speak as though you know him well," I noted. "You must be a good friend of his."

In an unsettling display, he pursed his lips slowly into a smile. "Something like that. I'm an advisor of sorts. An ear that listens. A fellow believer in his hopes and dreams. Every night, he prays to the gods. He prays for good to win in the minds of all people. And the gods listen, he says. He claims they send him signs, give him assurances... and sometimes appear to him, too. Many would call him crazy if he shared his dreams, but I would do no such thing. I would encourage him along this path, see his faith deepened. He believes that the gods walk the world, taking our form to speak with us. What a wondrous thing if that were true, no? What a blessing it must be to converse with a god, a paragon of virtue in this chaotic world, and maybe never even know it. Imagine hearing their words, and becoming convinced that they're just one of us... and that we could be capable of godly acts, too.

"Why, you could even be talking to a god right now. Ha! Imagine that, eh? Ahahaha...!"

It was certainly a crazy notion. But some people were inclined to such thoughts: the faithful, the deep believers. I was... not one of them. I had only started wading into this faith, which had surrounded me all my life, but to which I had paid little attention to until recently. You'll excuse me if I took all such people with a grain of salt.

After his bout of hearty laughter, he calmed down. "In any case, though, it's good we had this talk. You see, I smith and maintain specialized equipment for Vesperius, and he distributes them as he sees fit. He typically gives them out to his DA's. And you? You're one of them. Heck, you look like you could use some new gear, anyway. So tell me, Goldwreath... what do you want?"

I cocked my head sideways. "What do you mean?" I asked slowly.

He gestured at all the gear around us. "This equipment gets put on one body or another eventually. Yes, it's free; after all, I make a living here by being accommodated, not by acting as a merchant or a vendor. And I'm fine with that. Profit isn't really in my list of priorities, anyway. So you go ahead and take your pick. Any set of armor, any one gun, sword, shield, and all the ammo you can carry."

"Truly? That's mighty generous of you, Caminus. Why, you're making me feel guilty just accepting," I laughed, but I meant it. Don't get me wrong, I was as excited by the prospect of obtaining new stuff as much as the next guy would've been, but I really didn't feel right taking his work without compensation. I placed my trust in his statement that he didn't need the money, because if I found out he did and was just being nice, I'd do all I could to pay him back.

At his behest, I stood. I placed myself before all the fine gear and, with some trepidation, began to earnestly and eagerly consider each piece. I analyzed the impressive sets of armor and all of the rifles, pistols, shotguns, swords, spears, and shields on display. With such variety in equipment, I was truly tempted to select the best pieces -- even if my training for such equipment was limited at best. I checked my want; I'd pick out what I needed, what I knew I could use, and nothing else.

And actually, that wasn't a lot. The truth was that I didn't need much. My armor was scraped and dirty, but its integrity was in no way seriously compromised just yet; what's more, this praetorian lorica that Tavish had given me as a disguise back in Spiderhole had been modified while I was unconscious to accommodate my wings. That utility just couldn't be matched by any of these finely crafted suits, not unless I asked Caminus to deface his work. No, I couldn't do that. My armor was fine. I needed a new cape, though; the one that came with the disguise had all but disintegrated in my recent exploits. So I picked out a fresh purple cape and set it over my back, clipping it around my neck.

Next were the weapons. Contrary to what Vesperius had assumed, the 'standard firearms' he'd provided for my previous mission were... beyond my training. What can I say, Marediolanon's weapons training course was fairly narrow: shotguns and other short-ranged weaponry all utilized in a thorough close-quarters-combat training regimen. The use of rifles was rare, and I didn't trust myself enough to risk lives in a firefight on my ability to use them. So I picked out the most durable and most-dependable looking shotgun I could lay my eyes on -- a gorgeous thing with a long body and short barrel, with a drum magazine and a handle that fit the pressure-trigger comfortably against my hoof. And what else would I need? Oh yes, a sidearm. Thankfully pistols counted as close-ranged weapons. I fixed my focus on a sturdy revolver and settled on that.

Lastly, a good shield. Up until now any scutum I'd used was never totally mine. Now I had the chance to have one I could call my own. It wasn't a hard choice; all scuta were pretty much the same, minus decals and personal effects. So I took one of them up, was happy with the handling, and let the matter settle itself.

I lugged my chosen equipment over onto the table for Caminus to look over. He smirked and gave me a look.

"You're being frugal, Goldwreath." He shook his head with a smile. "Well, I trust you know what you're doing. If this is the equipment you feel will keep you alive out there, then so be it. Now, you'll need some ammo, of course." He stood and trotted over to a large chest, and after rummaging through the contents he pulled out boxes of ammo; why, they must've totalled hundreds of rounds and shells! I got the feeling I wasn't going to want for ammo any time soon.

"I do hope you'll be able to carry all this around. One benefit of being part of a military organization: you won't be struggling with ammunition, I guarantee it. Now, as your supplier, I'll give you an introduction to your equipment. This is my area of expertise." Caminus smiled proudly and stood tall, and began pointing to my chosen equipment in turn.

First, at the shotgun. "Here you got yourself the late-war 'Tankbuster' model of shotgun. Don't let the conventional aesthetic fool you; the thing has miniaturized rails in the barrel that produces powerful electromagnetic fields, accelerating pellets and slugs to incredible velocities. This gun, it punches right through anything that isn't a tank. Name's ironic in that sense, but you'll have no trouble blowing holes through hatches and through certain obstacles. Any poor sod this thing is aimed it will drop dead instantly; him, and probably the five or so guys behind him, too. If you're one for combat in enclosed spaces, nothing beats the power of the Tankbuster. Now, the rails do require power -- for that, there's a slot in the butt for a miniaturized power cell; I've given you a few of those. In the case that you're unable to power the rail mechanism, the weapon still works. Just without the extra kick that gives it its name."

I regarded the weapon with newfound awe, greatly pleased in my choice.

Next he turned to the revolver and the shield. "Nothing too much here. Standard .44 caliber magnum. Good range, good power, and a firing rate as fast as you can put pressure on the trigger. Then there's the bulletproof legionary scutum, made of lightweight metal composite alloys and emblazoned with the imperial-era IPQR logo and accompanying golden laurels. Collapsible for easy storage. Edges feature magnetic lining, so if ever you find yourself forming a shield wall with some allies, that'll give you some extra cohesion."

He stepped back and looked me over as I handled and got a feel for my new stuff. I was excited to try them out in combat, and not excited at the same time. I didn't fancy the idea of having to kill, but I had accepted the nigh-inevitability of it. The memory of cutting down one of Imperius' soldiers flashed in my mind, making me pause. It was a terrible recollection... but I had done it out of necessity, and in the end, things were better for it. So as long as anyone I put down had to be put down, as long as I only killed out of absolutely necessity... I was convinced I could handle that. I didn't like it, but the matter was beyond me.

Minutes later I was outside of Caminus' tent. I had loaded my saddlebags full with the ammo -- the weight would have been cumbersome if I hadn't donated to him the bits and pieces of other equipment I'd had to make do with on my previous ordeals. Slung across my neck was the Tankbuster model of shotgun. The revolver was ensconced firmly in a holster strapped to my foreleg. The new cape got its first taste of dirt as it dragged over the ground, moved by a light breeze. The shiny new scutum was in its collapsed form and hung on my torso, acting as a counterweight to the revolver and gladius on my other side.

"Well, the moment has come for us to part," Caminus said. "I've work to do. It seems its just every few days now when a new DA gets inducted and Vesperius requests some new equipment. It keeps me busy, my work; busy but satisfied. Now you take care out there, Goldwreath. And remember: the gods are watching, and they help you in ways you may not realize. Vale, true to Roam."

"Vale. True to Roam, friend," I replied. "Thank you, Caminus. Be well."

"You too, Goldwreath."

With that, we turned our backs to each other and went our separate ways. The sky had darkened significantly now, and was composed of the dark shades of purple that accompanied... what was it called? Dusk? Yes, dusk. I must've spent an hour in that tent.

Now, I'd given Skyfire and her friends enough time. Now was my chance to meet those people for real, and determine just what their life would be like in this new land.

"Goldwreath! Don't just stand over there dude, get over here," Skyfire beckoned, gesturing for me to take a seat on the chair opposite to her own. She sat next to a bed, on which lay a ragged pony stallion with a light blue coat and white mane and tail -- the colors of the sky, it seemed. His grey eyes seemed surprised that Skyfire had invited me over.

Now, the medical center of this Roaman camp was composed of a set of tents -- smaller, auxiliary ones surrounding the biggest in the middle, which could house two dozen sick or injured all at once. There was a plethora of equipment, all idle and unused but impressive in diversity. Lining the walls were tall apparatuses hung with medical tubes and braces, and powered-down machinery with screens that possessed what looked like robotic arms tipped with precision points for surgical operations.

Here Skyfire's squad were all laid in beds on one side, hungrily gobbling down a meal. It didn't smell like anything in particular. Porridge, perhaps? Oatmeal? Well, for the famished anything was good. Zebras dressed in medical gowns tended to them as they ate, taking their blood pressure with sphygmomanometers and checking their hearts with stethoscopes.

Myst wasn't in this tent, though. I frowned. I was sure she was being tended to in one of the auxiliary tents, but I had hoped to keep see her myself immediately. I arrived and stood before Skyfire, wiping the disappointment from my face -- not quickly enough, apparently.

Skyfire gave me a smirk. "What, you embarrassed or something? No need to look so dour. Take a seat, lemme introduce you to my captain here," she said.

"That's up to me, Skyfire. Officers should introduce themselves," the stallion said gravelly, with the voice that I immediately recognized as Breezetail's.

I sat down as Skyfire rolled her eyes. "Fine," she drawled. "Go ahead, captain."

Breezetail and I looked into each other's eyes. For his part, he showed some hesitation; or maybe he was just thinking on what to say. He lay silent for a moment, his expression one of deep thought as he looked at me.

"Well, you must be Goldwreath. Skyfire went into great detail about how you two met. And as for you and I? We met earlier when I wanted to smash your face in," he said. "Kinda glad I hadn't, I guess -- but mind you, you struck first with that EMP shenanigans. Anyway... Captain Breezetail, Enclave First Recon. You know plenty about us by now. More than I would've let on had I met you first instead."

He glared at Skyfire accusingly, and her smug smirk died. The mare sighed and looked away with a huff. She now looked only slightly troubled by what she'd done, though. She must've known all along that what she was doing would save them -- and Vesperius' surprise generosity and lenience had obviously cleared away much of the tension. Nonetheless, trust had been broken... and I didn't expect things to be totally okay between them again any time soon. But here, at least, I was seeing no hate. Just the expected anger. She had saved their lives and given them options for the future, after all, even if through a dangerous gamble. Surely he saw that and appreciated the thought behind it all.

Breezetail looked back to me, the anger in his eyes fading. "But here I am spilling my guts out anyway. After all, we're practically at your mercy here. Though... I guess I can't really hold a grudge against you. These are your people's lands. And, well, much as I want to smack Skyfire upside the head for pulling that damn stunt and blatantly disregarding our trust, she wasn't exaggerating when she said we were becoming something we hated. Glorified raiders... and damn well did she guess right when she said we would only have been screwing ourselves over with that kind of plunderer's life. Ain't smart to make enemies in unknown places." He closed his eyes and sighed, shaking his head. "What can I say to justify what we did? Nothing that can be excused. But that kind of desperation, well..."

"Oh, no need to explain to me, sir," I interjected. "And yes, I said sir. I'm new here. I've only just started to get into the swing of wasteland life, if we're being totally honest. You and your crew ? You may have done some questionable things, but I can't judge. I know little of hardships and tough choices, and I defer to those with greater experience in those regards. So if my lord Vesperius can forgive, well then I'd better take it as an example. Besides, Captain Breezetail, it's my understanding that your people stood for something good. What that good is, I don't quite know yet. But so long as I see you keep true to your morals now that you aren't keeling over from starvation, then you'll be alright by me."

He pursed his lips and gazed at his squadmates with thought. Then he turned back to me. "We'll try. We're here in this land now, in the fabled Roam... great enemy of old Equestria. But really... fuck that. World would've been better off without the war, and grudges are poison. So though it's all a haze in my mind, our future is here. Enclave sure as hell won't take us back, and the rest of Equestria's deep in the shit. At least here I see some progress, some chance for civilization to take root again."

He took a deep breath and nodded to himself, even as my mind raced to process some key words. Enclave. Equestria. My head exploded with all sorts of images, my curiosity piqued. I listened intently as he continued, "Oh, we'll make some good out of ourselves here, I'm certain. We're just not sure how. Without your intervention, none of this would be possible; we have you to thank for all this. So tell me, Goldwreath, what would you have us do?"

I smiled bashfully and shook my head. "I only know so much, sir. Legion needs all the personnel it can put to work. Reclaiming the bones of an old empire isn't easy. If you were just zebras from tribes or something, well I'd suggest becoming auxiliaries. But your people are clearly a cut above the average person's skills and talents. Ask Vesperius, he'll know what you can do if you're set on working for us."

He nodded again, but this time seemed a little troubled. "Alright. Now, I did aid we'll make good of ourselves here. We won't raid towns or pilfer settlements. If we're going to live here we'll need supplies, but supplies don't come free. We get that. Your leader's generosity is truly appreciated, but we can't possibly take it without payment. So we'll work, just as Skyfire proposed. But I would like to make it clear now... if we get into business with this group, we will be treated as equals and not subservients. We will work with you, not for you, for the progress that the Enclave are too stubborn to embrace. You'll forgive me for my insistence. I just want to make sure you people are better than the bigots mine have become."

Skyfire and I exchanged glances. She was giving me a funny look as she leaned back in her seat, both eyes on me with one eyebrow raised. Was she judging me, or just waiting to see how I'd react to all this?

I licked my lips. "Well, sir, your conditions are noted. I'll see to telling lord Vesperius. I do hope we turn out to be what you expect, of course, but we do our own things here. Cultural differences can arise, you know that," I said.

"Oh, yeah, well, obviously," he rolled his eyes. "That's why I will learn as much as I can about what your Legion does here. How they work, what they intend... and it is for that reason that I am ordering Skyfire here to accompany you. She will be my eyes and ears on the field."

Skyfire smiled. I was surprised.

"You're... ordering it?" I asked, dumbfounded. Now, bear with me. When I proposed my offers to Skyfire earlier that day, she was a conflicted mare burdened with the weight of betraying her friends. She accepted my offer because she needed to, because working with the Legion was all she could do to buy her squad a place in an unknown land. That was the reason, right? And even if it weren't just that anymore, why did she seem glad for it? She didn't need to do anything now. She could literally abuse Vesperius' generosity, her and the rest of her squad... and yet here she was smiling at me like I was some friend of hers.

... I couldn't quite complain, though. That's what I'd wanted. For her and I to be companions and friends, because why not? Why not befriend people of your own kind if it could be done? Ah, there was so much she could tell me! About Equestria, about what it was like now -- and this Enclave I kept hearing about. And most definitely, if I was going to run around all of Roam on errands for Vesperius, doing it alone would be most tiresome. And dangerous. Myst was a delight, oh yes certainly, and she too had agreed to join me. There was a thought forming in my mind, of me and friends taking on this land together. Working for a better future, together. Living a life of good, together. Understand, I embraced this brave new world of the outside with nothing behind me. No certainty, no guidance aside from my own morals, no friends. It was to be a life spent for Roam. Good on its own merits, but... lonely, and full of pain. The thought of my new life not being quite so dreadful filled me with hope.

"Skyfire and I had a talk, and after an evaluation of the offers you made... I can only see it as good. She does fair by your people, until such a time as the rest of us can do the same, by working to pay off the debt we owe you for all of the astonishing generosity you have shown us. What's more, she will gather intelligence for me so that I can evaluate what the future actions of my squad will be. Ultimately, these two agenda will serve to bring the ultimate goal to fruition. That is, that our two peoples can coexist here in peace. Do you object to my reasoning?" the pegasus captain asked.

I shook my head, using the seconds to get my surprise under control. "No, certainly not. I agree with you every step of the way, sir. It's just... I mean, I gave the propositions, but I didn't actually expect acceptance. It was tense, you know. A few hours ago I was tasked with dealing with the threat you posed in any way I deemed necessary. We were enemies. Now here we are... the world just moves so fast."

He smirked. "Well, since you insist on calling me 'sir' cause you say you're inexperienced in wasteland life, here's a bit of advise: life moves fast out here. Sometimes trying to rationalize stuff just gives you a headache, clutters your thoughts. Just let stuff happen, take them as they are. Works wonders for keeping sane in an insane world."

I let out a puff of air and nodded, my eyes narrowed in thought. "If you say so, sir."

"Good! Now if you don't mind me, Goldwreath, I haven't had a good rest in days."

I stood. "Yes, of course sir. Be at peace. You're safe here; you and your squad. Rest well, captain." I rendered the Roaman salute and turned to leave. Skyfire followed.

Once outside, she stood next to me. "Well, that went just about as I thought it would," she said, stretching and cracking her neck. "Gotta say, Goldwreath, you've got a pretty silvery tongue there to say something to me that, when said to someone else, still seems convincing. I ain't articulate for shit, but you seem good with words. Good on you."

"I practice," I replied, looking at her. When she had done stretching and saw me staring, she cocked her head sideways.

"Huh, what?" she asked.

I cut right to my point. "You wanted this, didn't you?" I questioned, not hoping to sound in any way apprehensive or disgruntled, because I was far from either. I just needed to hear it from her. "You want to go into that wasteland with me." She gave me a long look and smiled, looking away bashfully.

"How come?" I pressed.

She looked at me with a simple smile, then shrugged. "Eh, you're cute. Mares like checking out stallions from the rear, too," she said, and my eyes popped wide and I reeled back.

"Wh-whaaa-?" I mumbled, mouth agape, shaking my head as I felt my crimson cheeks turn even redder.

The mare broke into laughter, wrapping a hoof around my neck to keep herself from falling to the floor. "Celestia's mane, Goldwreath! Geez, it's nothing to get worked up about. What, mares never told you you're cute or something?" She broke into more laughter.

"As a matter of fact, no they haven't. Except for my mother," I said. It may have been a mistake. The mention of my mother made her eyes water and her outburst turn to wheezing. I grumbled out my extreme discomfort, wondering how my very serious series of questions had resulted in this drama.

After a while Skyfire composed herself, though she couldn't help but giggle for a little longer. "Alright, alright. Sorry -- that was weird on my part, I'll admit," she said, detaching herself from me and wiping a tear from her eye.

"Damn straight," I muttered.

She sighed and rolled her eyes, then regarded me smugly. "Shit, Goldwreath, what do I say? The first reason aside, staying in one place? Ugh, I can't! I need to fly. It's way too boring for me." She placed both forehooves underneath her sockets and pulled, making her eyes bulge out as she stretched the skin. "So boring! I'm damn glad Breezetail had the sense to put me on this assignment. Celestia bless that stallion for knowing me so well."

I suppose I could understand that. As a pegasus locked up in a Stable all my life, I'd always been more restless than most. The urge to fly and be free had always been with me, though I'd simply been forced to temper it. Truth be told, now that I had no metal roof over my head the only thing keeping me from taking to the skies was a fear of the unknown. The sight of the outside had put me on my haunches the first time; if I saw this world from high up, it would be wondrous, but also incredibly daunting. I would embrace that experience, in due time. No rush.

"So those are your reasons?" I asked. "Following me around because they're your orders, because you can't stay in one place, and because you think I'm... er... cute?" I shifted from side to side, feeling jittery inside. "Good to know, I suppose."

Skyfire smirked. "Wow, that really threw you off, huh? Gotta remember that. Could make for some good... entertainment... if things get too boring. " She chuckled. "Nah, but seriously, not just cause you're cute. More to it than that. I can't say I trust you too much just yet -- shit, we've known each other for, what three hours? I've yet to see all of you, you know? And I'm sure there's more about me you'd wanna know, too. But hey, you've been pretty good to me so far, and that's all I really care about. Good company's a must in the wasteland. Enclave couldn't understand that with their heads so far up their asses, they were practically eating their own shit. Seclusion just ain't the way to go anymore, not with people starting to get smart again. So I'll work with you and hope for the best. That's not so hard to understand, is it?"

"No. No, I suppose not," I smiled, at last satisfied. I would've been willing to let her accompany had she not spilled as much as she did, but I was glad she was being honest.

I looked out towards the ruins. "Well, that's settled then. Mind you, we won't be heading out just yet. For one thing, we've got to wait for Vesperius to get your equipment back in working order. Hopefully it's a priority for him and it'll be done soon. I've also got a few loose ends to tie up here. So you just go about how you want first -- check out the camp, talk to people if you're feeling like it. I'll just find you when it's time to head out."

She gave me a quick salute and smiled brashly. "You got it, boss. See you around, Goldwreath." She winked at me, and with that she jumped and took to the air, flying towards the camp whilst hovering a few dozen feet above the ground. Those who saw her pointed and looked amazed.

I felt that the whole encounter had gone quite well -- except perhaps for that awkward comment of hers. It was hard for me to imagine that such a headstrong mare could so casually toss around such flirty statements. Or was it actually flirting? Agh, I didn't know. Not like I'd ever had experience. Mares were strange. Maybe I should have asked mother...

Anyway! Certainly much would need to be affirmed, but so far I was amazed at how incredibly well things had gone since arriving back at the camp. Was all this success perhaps just predecessor to dire disappointments, or indicative of even more fortune? I couldn't say. Certainly I hoped for the latter, but this being the wasteland and not the cozy and controlled Marediolanon, I had to expect much ill circumstance in the future. Ill circumstances like death, lost trust, ruined relations. All depressing, but very real. That was the truth of the matter that was simply beyond me.

Of course, I had some power to maintain the things closest to me. As a subject of thought, I could relax on anything pertaining to Skyfire for now; Delvius was still a puzzle I had to work through -- but definitely no more a puzzle than Myst, whose every move and thought perplexed and frustrated me, while also enticing my deepest curiosities. Curiosities that demanded satisfaction. She was probably still out cold, but I could hope.

I turned around and approached the auxiliary medical tents, looking for her.

"Thank you. That certainly saves me time," I said, bowing gratefully to the medical zebra who'd been patient enough to stop and entertain a lost pony's questions.

I followed his directions. The furthest tent was where Myst was at. Just as Delvius had described -- though this applied to all the medical tents -- she was being housed in a red and white field tent, this one situated at the very edge of the formation of aid stations that formed this camp's aid station.

I deduced that, given the largest of the tents had only Skyfire's squad as patients, there was no reason to believe the other tents were occupied. These were, after all, auxiliary tents, to be filled when the primary facility was overtaxed. It led me to question why Myst hadn't simply been placed in the main tent. Did Vesperius feel the isolation would be good for her? He couldn't have known her preference for solace. Or perhaps he simply believed her injuries were more severe and required less outside disturbance? That didn't comfort me. I swallowed and turned my trotting to a canter, hurrying towards it.

At last I reached out with a hoof and made to pull aside the flaps, when a tension in my body stopped me cold. I couldn't say why, or how, but my mind was suddenly filled with adrenaline. Combat instinct. I felt jittery, ready to lash out at some invisible opponent like my own life depended on it. This sensation was so compelling and sudden I reflexively pulled out my gladius and, with ionized blade, stormed inside the tent.

My eyes quickly scanned the area. The layout was much less conducive to a communal healing experience. There were only three beds here, arranged in a semicircle before the entrance, each accompanied by all sorts of advanced medical equipment. And it was dark -- all lights were off, save for the flashing bulbs of the various machines. The outside light could not penetrate the interior, for the walls of the tent were braced on the inside by a thick foam padding. The floor was made of wooden planks instead of being just plain dirt, and each of the three beds were sectioned off from each other by translucent glass. The vibe emitted was almost that of a true hospital rather than a crude field tent.

None of this put me at ease, though I still could not fathom the source of my sudden impulse. I could not at all reason out why I was so ready to kill something, or how I had come to feel that way. Perhaps if some innocent, ordinary Legion surgeon came up to me and assured me all was well, I would've been placated and let my irrational instinct fade. But there was not a soul in sight, and the darkness only heightened my sense of alertness.

I moved forward. The faint lights were barely enough to make out any details. For vision I used the illumination of my gladius' blade, and held it out in front of me as I walked past each bed. Each one empty, their areas pristine and untouched. All except for the last.

"Myst!" I breathed a sigh of relief and moved forward, looking down at her. Poor mare. To the light of my blade, she was pale and sickly looking, marred by patches of burnt fur and raw hide. She was breathing, though, and I thanked the gods for that. All the tubes going into her nose and into her skin irked me, but I knew those were for her speedy recovery, regardless of how ghastly a sight they were. But I supposed, all considered, she looked far less terrible than I'd feared.

I didn't want to touch her, because who knew what injury I may have aggravated. Still, there couldn't have been harm in lifting the blanket so I could see how the rest of her fared, right? I spotted a nearby lightswitch and flicked it. White light bathed us from above.

I motioned to sheathe my blade. Then my eyes caught a glimpse of a dark shape and I jumped back, scared witless with ice in my veins, pointing the gladius at the form I'd mistaken for shadow just moments before.

A moment of intense panic and pure reflex ensued, one which almost made me slash down to cut this thing in half. I abstained only through sheer awe and terror at the sight before me. This figure... whatever it was, it in shape resembled a pony or a zebra -- but one so massive and bulky even my own size was dwarfed. Clad head-to-hoof in thick black mesh and armored at the torso and joints by huge metal plates, whoever this was appeared to be some unholy marriage of armored mechanical suit and genetically modified super-soldier. How else to explain the terrifying proportions of the limbs -- thick and robust, encased in a machine shell of pistons and mesh? Not even mentioning the body, which was endowed with a veritable chassis adorned with countless utilities of war: nooks and hooks for holding weapons, built-in scabbards for all sorts of blades, and even compartments for the safe storage of explosives.

And then there was the helmet. Bulky and round, with breathing apparatus that protruded from the front like some hungry maw. The glass visor was old and cracked, dusty and scraped. I could see nothing in those black eyeslots: no sign of life or of a person, and that only terrified me further.

Immediately, I knew the source of the panic that'd gripped me ever since stepping inside this place. The very aura exuded from this thing prompted in me extreme prejudice and judgement. I needed to kill it. I needed to strike it down. It was a danger to everything within miles of here. The very nature of its appearance screamed 'killing machine'. 'Murderer'. 'Freak of nature'. And surely it must've been all these -- in a world full of all the wonders of magic, it takes a special kind of evil to induce dread without ever even being noticed. If indeed this thing had the arcane at its command, it could only be that much more of a threat.

It must feel Justice's burn! roared a voice in my head.

Every fibre of my being was screaming for its death; the unity of my decision was absolute, almost as if it had been made artificially so, for I doubt one could ever be so sure of anything. I would've stabbed it, right in the face. Oh yes, I would have, gladly... if not for an abrupt and extremely jarring neutralization of my emotions, like mountains of ice dropped suddenly on flowing lava. My passionate want for its death was suddenly reduced to a discomfort. I hadn't wanted to believe this thing was even a person, let alone one deserving of dignity. But as my hearing was flooded with a calm humming noise and my tense limbs were made numb, I found myself forced by suspicious exhaustion to take another look at this terrifying creature.

I looked over its... his? Her? Ugh, I looked over the armor again, and saw it slagged; sections of the metal and the mesh were melted together, broken into jagged patterns that pierced inward as well as protruded outward. A fine layer of ash covered the entirety of the suit, and in some places -- particularly the joints -- dark liquid dripped slowly from bleeding wounds. The figure was slumped where it sat, unmoving and derelict in all appearance. There was no rising or falling of the chest to indicate breathing, no reaction to the presence of my blade. Was this thing dead?

Then I saw the lone medical tube lodged right into a bloody hole in the mesh, right at the neck. I saw also a bunch of empty syringes on a nearby table, as well as the hollowed out husks of painkiller bottles.

I grimaced at the sight of all this. Then from within the metal confines of the helmet a deep, hoarse voice intoned sluggishly, "Mm... rightfully wary are the startled when a surprise presents itself -- and to those who've not gotten used to my presence, and often even then, a disturbing sight must be the one clad in blackest armor. But to kill me? I who am currently a simple patient in need of medical aid? In better times I'd challenge you to try. But as an injured knight would be foolhardy to joust, so too would I be nonsensical in provoking whosoever has the advantage."

A he. At last I had something definite to call this thing. Male -- and articulate at that. Not merely some brute creature of war like I had feared. I didn't feel better about him at all, though.

He leaned forward, growling with pain the whole while. The very beastly sound rattled me, and I backed away, tightening my grip on the blade.

"But you too would make for a mysterious case if you were cut me down without even knowing my name, or my purpose, or my affiliation. Strange introductory circumstances these are, oh yesss..." A pondering, curious clicking noise rattled from his throat as he seemed to fall into thought. For a moment he said nothing. Then he turned to me sharply, boring his unseen eyes into me.

"But not unsalvageable. So, I put my good foreleg forward for you..." He stretched out his massive right foreleg to me. Its span was a whole leg's segment longer than my own, and nearly twice as thick. "... and lay my title for you to hear. I am Predator. Not a name of my own choosing, but it will do."

I looked down at his extended foreleg and paused. I could say much on why I hesitated, but it would all ultimately boil down to the same thing: I was scared of this guy and didn't trust him. So many unknowns. If indeed he had needed medical aid, why would he settle for such mediocre treatment? There were two other empty stations here, yet he chose to sit right next to Myst and settle on painkillers. That fact alone threw up a whole slew of red flags up in my mind. Now here he was, posing as a civil and decent being despite all evidence making him out to be a threat. Damned if I could just take his leg in greeting without second thought.

But in the end, Roaman tradition prompted me to extend my own leg forward. I grimaced and swallowed as I made contact -- the very feel of his armored limb was deathly cold and ominously heavy. I had no doubt he could crush bones with its mere weight.

We held the position for a brief moment, neither motioning to embrace the gesture fully. I drew back and took in a deep breath, my skin crawling.

"Apprehension. Nothing new to me. Fear is a tool indeed, but one can clearly see its opposition to establishing connections," he said.

"You'll excuse my lack of enthusiasm for this encounter, then," I said, sheathing my gladius. As much as Predator's presence irked me, my oddly murderous impulse had passed, replaced instead by a perpetual distrust. "For indeed, you are a frightening sight. Your admittance of your own... eh, 'quirks', doesn't quite help your case, I'm afraid."

"The knowingly-frightening wouldn't expect as much." He stretched out his good leg again, but this time just relieve himself. He groaned with satisfaction. "This is my state of being. It stirs suspicion and fear in the hearts of others. A mere... side-effect of being myself. One cannot escape one's nature, and in my case that nature is one of proficiency in the arts of death."

"Oh, I have no doubt. You certainly look the part." Why was I even prolonging this conversation? It was pointless and put me ill at ease. There were many people I could tolerate in my life, many situations I could endure for the sake of civility and decency. This was not one of them. Was I discriminating against Predator and depriving him of the patience I had so readily extended to others in the past? I hate to say, but yes. Between his obvious occupation and capabilities, and his proximity to Myst, I simply could not find it in me to be gentle and subtle with my desire to have him at a distance.

With that in mind, I pointed at one of the empty stations. "There're two open beds in this tent. I suggest you head over to them, instead. Surely a surgeon will come to you, and their attention would be much more valuable than the meagre help you've given yourself. I'm not comfortable with your presence around my friend," I said, making my desires clear. "I'd rather keep her company myself. I'm sure you understand."

He looked at Myst, then back at me. "Your friend, hm? Most fortuitous. Desolate she appeared; to my mind, the thought came that maybe she was some poor soul the Legion found left for dead. Under that presumption, it seemed only decent to keep her company. To be alone in the dark is not pleasant. To wake up alone in the dark? That is worse."

"I'm sure it is," I said, holding back the urge to roll my eyes. "Now, if you don't mind. I'd like to look keep her company -- on my own."

He stood, presenting his full and unbridled size. He must've stretched a meter from shoulder to shoulder and stood five feet tall -- massive proportions for any zebra or pony. The gravity of his presence emanated lumbering might, and when he stepped forward I was so sure he'd pulverize me for suggesting such an inconvenience. My hoof instinctively went to my blade again.

But he made no such lethal gesture. Instead he simply brought a foreleg up to his neck and yanked out the tube with one swift motion, sparing me from listening to the sickly sloppy sound for too long. He grunted with pain.

"Ugh." I shuddered. "Sorry to ask this of you, but I'm sure you'll be fine," I said, not quite hoping for it. "You're a big guy."

"For you," he replied plainly. Then he stepped to the side and lumbered off. His passing was like a dark shroud being lifted. Suddenly Myst's bed area seemed brighter, as though the whole time the light had been muted. He went over to the bed just opposite us and sat down.

Now that he was away I could at least pretend to be at ease. I sat next to Myst and reclined, trying my best to feel as I had wanted upon coming to this place -- relaxed, patient for her awakening, eager to see her. But I could feel Predator's eyes on me. The creep was staring at us from the dark, sitting totally still like some gargoyle. It was disturbing. Unnerving. Would he do anything to us? I sat vigilant regardless, hoof on my gladius. Had he never mucked up my very simple plan to rest in Myst's presence, I'd have slept contentedly. Now I was on full alert, ready to defend myself and the mare next to me at Predator's first move.

But nothing. He just sat there watching me, and I him. A stalemate that lasted for a time I cared not to measure.

In our contest, I was surprised but haughty in my victory. Eventually, he stood -- and in so doing broke eye contact first. I don't know, perhaps he never believed us to be in some tense circumstance, but I know I certainly believed it.

In all our stay here, none had intruded. If the surgeons had believed Myst to be in need of attention, they would have come -- and, though I loathed to think it, they would have tended to Predator, too. But despite his obvious injuries no one had arrived to help him. This lead me to wonder if they even knew he was in here at all.

Predator spent a moment stretching. Then when that was done he looked straight at me. I could not fathom the intent in his eyes, for I could not see them. Perhaps that was just as he desired. Before long he took a tentative step towards the exit and, seeming to overcome some kind of hesitation, hastily made towards it. The weight of his steps reverberated throughout the whole tent. He threw aside both flaps and disappeared into the darkness outside.

Just like that, contact with Predator ended for the night.

"Freak," I muttered to myself. Then I looked down at Myst. Still breathing, still healing. The stoic expression I'd upheld for who knows how long softened as I reached out and brushed her soft cheek, careful not to make contact with her wounds.

How much longer? The wait for her awakening was growing worrisomely long now at three days, even if I had been unconscious myself for two of those. I wanted to hear her voice again. I wanted to confide in her and recount all the happenings since, and to likewise hear her own tale of the underground anomaly. Little at that moment could I appreciate more than simply talking with her, to know that she would live and continue on with me. Poor mare. To have been so unlucky in life, and now so unlucky to suffer further. Injustice of the highest echelon, for what could one so meek have done to deserve all that? If not injustice, then was that simply the way of the world? If so, fuck the world. It needed to change, not her. It was the very edict of civilization to rescue people, especially the weak, from the horrors of savagery, under the principle that all had worth. And in Myst I had seen much of that worth; not in her skills, nor in her achievements, but in her capacity to feel and to think. That was what made people people.

I sighed as I looked her over, my heart aching with pity. By impulse I bent over to kiss her forehead, and with the gesture whispered a prayer. "Be well, sweet mare," I said.

For a long while I simply stared at her. Then I looked aside and saw yet another figure before me, and once more I yelped in surprise and jumped, crashing into a table. I drew my blade and stood in a rush. But no, no threatening figure or frightening abomination stood before me. Just Vesperius.

He stood with both eyes wide open, staring cross-eyed at my blade. Carefully balanced on his back were two small plates filled with food, and next to one of these was a mug of coffee.

He glanced back at his coffee questioningly. "Hm. Maybe I really ought to have accepted that praetorian escort after all. Or maybe I've drank too much?" he muttered, "Coffee doesn't do that, though. Or does it? I must be hallucinating again. Wondrous." He shuddered. "Gods I need sleep."

I swallowed and blinked hard, making sure that the person before was indeed Vesperius and not some sort of, as he put it, hallucination. My hooves trembled as I swallowed to ease my dry throat. "Ah, n-no sir," I managed after a moment, sheathing my blade and praying he wouldn't take offense at what I'd done. "I'm no hallucination. You simply caught me by surprise. I was in a thought-trance, I think... and in those moments I'm almost completely detached from the world. My perception was never the best to begin with, but in those times it's just pathetic."

"Oh." He looked almost disappointed. "Shame. I really could've used a hallucination. Could've turned it lucid. Oh wait, that only applies to dreams." He shook his head and put a hoof to his temples. "Oh yes, really need sleep. Or maybe more coffee. That always helps." With that he laid the two plates of food down on the nearby table, and with one swift chug downed all of his coffee. His pupils dilated. "Much better."

"Um. Sir, maybe you need to sit down..." I beckoned.

"Oh yes, yes perhaps I should," he replied, and he sat down next to the bed just like me. "Don't worry about me. Work days are tiring, and this is no different. I've gotten used to it. Still, there was one more item on the to-do list, and that was to talk to you, as I earlier said. It just so happened to be dinner time, so I thought I'd obtain some rations before heading out to find you. I was correct in assuming you'd be here."

"Oh. Why, thank you, sir. Your consideration humbles me," I said, picking up one of the plates and looking over its contents. It wasn't much -- just some steamed grain porridge with sauce and strips of meat, with spices and herbs tossed in. Still, it looked appetizing enough, and I'd forsaken my stomach to watch over Myst. Sitting here quietly eating would be a nice change from the tense hours before -- and it certainly helped that Vesperius was such a placid fellow I felt absolutely no need to adhere to some convoluted code of conduct, as I would've had to in the presence of larger egos.

"Talk to me about what, though? Why schedule this meeting with me?" I asked after a moment.

To this he simply shrugged. "Well, a topic or two. At the time I considered asking you about the pegasi you brought in, for example, and how things are in that regard. However, recent reports tell me that you've quite snugly settled those matters. If you are at peace with them and whatever arrangements they have proposed, given they are reasonable, I am certain I will have no trouble myself when some time later this week I look over the official paperwork. It is not enough to agree verbally, you know. These things have to be legitimized."

"Of course. And yes, matters with the pegasi are quite fine as of now." I thought of Skyfire and her willingness to journey with me and smiled. "Incredibly so, actually. I almost can't believe it. Like I said earlier, sir, you're partially to thank for that," I replied.

"I've granted myself some pride for it," he said. "Just the right amount. So, if those matters are settled, we can move on. Next, I must speak with you about Arachnia -- or as those people you brought with you know it, Spiderhole."

At this I straightened up. "What of it, sir?"

"I determined the matter was of great significance. I sent a detachment accompanied by a few of my finest dignitaries to pacify the situation there, and to recover Thanus' legionaries," he said, making me balk. I opened my mouth to speak, but he continued, "Now, now. I understand the level of turmoil present there. I've read the reports, and ever since you arrived here I've had an agent of mine interview -- not interrogate -- some of the denizens you brought with you. It is indeed a great big mess, a headache of the highest degree, but I cannot allow Imperius to establish his own pseudo-Legion and claim to be affiliated with us, and in so doing tarnishing our reputation. I also certainly cannot allow my own soldiers to be held captive, even if they may be treated fairly. So I will do with Arachnia as my legates do with the other shelters. That is, I will establish talks with them and come to a beneficial agreement. If that cannot be achieved, well..." He drew back and took a deep breath. "It may call for more aggressive measures. But I hope it needn't come to that."

I sat there solemnly for a moment, remembering my ordeals in the troublesome and convoluted political mess that was Spiderhole. I wasn't so sure about this at all, but Vesperius was far more experienced than I in these matters. And if he could indeed pacify Spiderhole before it became a big enough factor in Legion operations, who was I to complain? The memory of the place and of what happened there was in the background of my mind, but heavy and dark. Yes, it would be good to hear at some point that Spiderhole was no longer a problem.

"I defer to your judgement, Vesperius," I said after a while. "I hope you have more luck there than I had. All my efforts there were for naught. The result of my failure was tragedy."

"Don't blame yourself. From what I hear, Imperius was at fault for the slaughter there. I for one cannot fathom what goes through the minds of people like him." He shook his head. Then noticing the somber and heavy mood that ensued, he smiled and brushed a hoof to the side. "Ah, but enough of that. The matter will settle itself. For now, let us eat. The food is getting cold."

He picked up his own plate and started to go through it. I did the same. Vesperius seemed to take solace in the silence, liking it and taking refuge in it from the hustle of his work. In this way we were alike, at least for that time, for I too simply desired for the day to end already. It had been an exhausting set of events from waking up to sitting where I sat.

Yet after a while Vesperius broke the silence and said, "I overheard you, you know." I gave him a quizzical look. "All that you said to her. Indeed, your perception was very minimal. I entered just as you brushed her cheek, and stopped to observe. Did you not notice me?"

"Um. I, uh..." I could feel my cheeks going warm as I shifted uncomfortably. Eck, so much for not needing to fuss over myself in his presence. "No. No, sir... I didn't."

"You have feelings for her, don't you?" he asked.

I sighed and bowed my head. "Yes, sir."

"Clearly. There was a fire in your eyes when you drew your sword that could only have been the protective instincts of one so emotionally invested in another. Your actions spoke for themselves."

"I would have done the same for any in need, sir," I replied. "But yes, I suppose I was predisposed to such actions. Especially for her." I looked over to the mare. "I just... I just wanted to keep her company. To keep her safe. It felt like... my duty, but one not obligated. I wanted to be here, and it was a want unlike any other desire I've ever had. I expected no returns, yet hoped that maybe she'd wake up. I desired merely her presence, yet am left wanting for something more."

I shook my head and sat there in my confusion. "These feelings perplex me."

"I take it you must've never loved before?" Vesperius questioned. I thought on it.

"No, sir. But isn't love stretching it? I've known her for about four days."

He smiled in a rare show of open emotion. "Oh. Well, I can't claim to answer that. All I know is that there're few things worth valuing in the wasteland -- and willing companionship is chief among these. Perhaps it is not love, but if she desires to be with you then I am certain that the tumult of your experiences shared will meld you two in a bond strong as the sturdiest shield wall. And like that shield wall, you two will face the malice and the horrors of the world and not break. Such is the case with any genuine friendship you can find, before or since. But indeed, there is always room in there for love. You can hope, Goldwreath."

"Well, I'm quite glad there's that, then," I replied, smiling faintly. Then I frowned again as I looked her over. "Still, one thing at a time. My primary concern right now is her immediate well-being. How long will she be out, and when does wake, how will she fare... things like that. I cannot for the life of me pass a moment wherein concern for her isn't rooted there somewhere in the rear of my thoughts. It's almost maddening. And then there are the potential dangers to her..."

I grimaced as Predator came to mind. With him gone, I was able to think back on our encounter and objectively deduce that I had been extremely biased and not just a little bit rude. Maybe it was the sheer uncertainty and strangeness about him. Maybe it was the fact that he seemed to have a keen interest in Myst. More likely, maybe it was the severe distrust planted in me by that inexplicable aura. Or perhaps it was all of these combined. All I knew is that when one encounters an abnormal fellow creepily eyeing one's friend, then by all intents and purposes said fellow must be dealt with prejudice. Still... if our next encounter wasn't under such stressful circumstances I would certainly give him more of my standard consideration. The wasteland was a wild place, I kept reminding myself. The natural diversity among persons was heightened by the extreme living conditions of the outside. Every single one of these new faces I met had a story, and surely Predator was no different.

"Oh. Well, worry not too much. You and your friends are all quite safe here, in this camp. Not a single soul passes through these grounds that I am not made aware of," Vesperius assured, sounding deadly serious. I looked at him and saw intense surety in his eyes. "Not. A single. Soul. The gods watch over us, Goldwreath. All who dwell here have only friendly intentions."

It was at that point that I desired to bring up my encounter with Predator, and to test Vesperius' statement. But I refrained if only because I believed to already know the answer. Had Predator indeed been some intruder looking for quick aid, he certainly didn't need to barge into the camp. An ambush on a patrol and a quick pilfering could easily result in medical supplies. What's more, for all his shadowy vibes, he had made no attempt to stealthily leave this tent just earlier. So did Predator indeed fall under Vesperius category of 'known, friendly' souls? Gods, the thought of it disturbed me despite my concessions that I had been too harsh on the guy.

As tended to be the case with me, I must've let my doubts show on my face. Vesperius offered, "I can nonetheless order a guard detachment to watch over her, if you so desire. I understand you may find the idea of letting strangers watch over her to be most refutable-..."

"With all due respect sir, I do," I interjected. "Just... wanted to make it clear now. Time is very valuable for you, I know. No point making you drone on for something that'll have no yield."

"Mm," he shrugged, "Alright then. Indeed, time is important to me. Why, I've just spent half my eating time talking with you. I suppose if I eliminate my pre-sleep meditation I can still stomach this..." He looked down at his plate of food, and sighed. He looked up at me with a tired smile. "Be glad you're not me, Goldwreath. A life governed by strict scheduling is predictable, and so has little to fear... but oh, so tedious. Oh well, it has its ups and downs."

"Sir, if you're attempting to excuse yourself for an immediate withdrawal, by all means go on," I told him. "You have my thanks for the food, for I had nearly neglected myself in that regard, and for the talk especially -- it put me at ease. I suppose I can sleep a little easier tonight knowing some loose ends are being tied for me."

"Alright then." He stood, carefully balancing his plate on his back once more. "When you're done just put your dishes on the table nearest the door. A nurse comes through here every few hours to check on patients and the like. And, oh yes, this camp isn't quite equipped with auxiliary barracks I'm afraid. The people of Spiderhole have made due the past few days sharing what little space the legion here could spare -- which includes this tent. So yes, you can decide to lay your head on one of these beds, or right where you sit, next to her. Just don't be surprised if you wake up in the morning with a few neighbours."

I nodded. "Noted."

He gave me his own nod. "Goodnight, Goldwreath," he said, and promptly left.

Given the trend of the past few hours, someone would waltz in while I was least vigilant and surprise me. But even though it mustn't have even been late evening, I was oh so tired, and was nearing the point of being unable to care if I were being watched or not. I removed myself from all the heavy articles upon me -- shield, weapons, ammo... and these I laid carefully and compactly, in the manner taught to me by Horus, against the wall. My gladius I kept close and my armor on, though. Just in case. Those done, I promptly finished my rations, laid the plate near the entrance as Vesperius instructed, and returned to my spot next to Myst. I let out a breath and, faster than I would've expected, slipped into sleep.

Entry #9
Nothing new today, though I did make some good Friends in the centuria. We'll see how that goes, I suppose.

Skyfire added to party. This feisty pegasus mare uses her speed and maneuverability to strike enemies from the air. She is an ideal scout and a valuable asset when the bullets start flying.