One by one, the crowd had left, while Trevor remained behind. He needed to reflect further on what had transpired. While he should feel content with the absence of further protest, instead doubt arose. Doubt that he was even correct in his assumption, or even confident in the human’s and hellhound’s abilities. Most survivors are either too young or too old, making them scarce. And if any skilled individuals existed, they had never received any prior training. Can they find time to prepare for the Pencari onslaught? Perhaps, the one we have on hold. If he possesses information, perhaps we can gain an advantage... for a good while.
He stood up from his seat and meandered through the longhouse, considering everything as he pondered the next steps. First, focus on acquiring information, then discuss with Aralt and Ronan... or perhaps consult his father if he’s rested enough. And at that moment, possibly...
He stopped and his eyes widened. An idea popped into his head. An unconventional choice for their type, but the potential is there. He searched for the ‘phone’ that was stored in his leather pouch and began utilizing the device. The ‘phone’ vibrated, trying to get into contact with his son. And it would take a minute before he got a response, “Mph, Dad? What is it?”
Oh right, fuck, honey said he was taking a nap.
“Sorry to wake you, son, but this is important. I need you to answer me. Have you found any human inventions recently?”
While asking, he heard the bed creak. This further confirmed that, without a doubt, Raygnar was napping. Releasing a soft groan, he replied, “Uuum... only a few toy models of stuff. Books? What else... oh right, I found a rifle.”
“A rifle?”
The appearance resembles one, but it’s highly peculiar. Remarkably silvery and shiny... with some weird patterns. It looked to be unlike our world. I think it was from humans in the past. I stumbled upon the rifle unexpectedly in a pit that I think was part of a military fort.
“A... what? Military--? How would you know that?”
“Well, one, it is highly guarded. Or well, it would be. The location is enclosed by steel walls and the sole means of entry for me was to climb over. Two, in that location, a range of only these metallic carts could be found, each equipped with a massive weapon on their top.. And there is just one building, which I believe actually leads to a base because they didn’t want enemies to really know their location...at least their floor plan.”
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Trevor pondered this. He hated having to put this much pressure on his son, but he had no choice. “Son, I need you to do me a favor. That Military fort. I need you to inspect the place, uncover any valuable findings, and retrieve them. Ok?”
“Wait... really? You sure?”
“We have no choice. If we are doing what we are doing, we need every bit of advantage we can get. The Elves and Dragons hated the humans for a reason. They were threatened by their kind for a reason. And we need to find and use that reason against the Pencari. Of course, you need to get people with you in case anything dangerous tries to do anything funny. Understand?”
“Um. Of course, Dad, but who would be the best to bring?”
Before Trevor could respond, he caught sight of movement in his peripheral vision. He drew out his sword and pointed in the general direction. Fixing his gaze on the spot where the entrance was, he acknowledged the person present. Because of the dark clothing, it was challenging to notice anything except for the red eyes. “You shouldn’t be sneaking around, boy. Especially of your race.”
“There is nobody here, and the environment was safer.” Nahele murmured, “And you aren’t a threat to me...”
“Maybe, as long as you behave. You’re only here alive is because of that friend of yours. Regarding that, is he human? Or is he a Pencari...like you?”
Nahele shook his head, “Human. Doesn’t like his mask off; habit of preventing a Pencari from finding him.” The Pencari examined the place, taking in everything that was there. “I heard a voice...”
“It’s from this.” Trevor revealed the phone in his hand. “Human invention. My son is trying to replicate it because he believes it is the best thing for us. Faster way to communicate, especially in dire situations too.” He then talks through the phone to his son, “Anyway, think about what I said. You should have at least three people with you, ok?”
“Ok Dad, I’ll let you know,” Raygnar’s voice emitted, “in the meantime, I need to rest more. I’ll see you later.” Then there was a click; the call ending.
Trevor exhaled and stored the phone back to the leather pouch. Then he turned back to Nahele, “Since you are staying here... and it is of goodwill that you are not restrained and jailed, you will need to provide answers to us.” He crossed his arms, “I am going to talk to the leaders about what we need to do in the future, and you are the only one with possible information about the Pencari. While I cannot force you to, it is very vital to everyone’s lives, including yours, that you answer them. We will do the talks tomorrow as everyone is getting settled in. Can I depend on you and possibly your friend to give us the knowledge of our enemy?”
The elf closed his eyes, his fists clenched tightly to the point of shaking. He squinted his eyes for a brief moment, pushing back the most vile moments he unfortunately witnessed, along with the tragedies. He then remembered his words: One day, they have to repent. They cannot do this forever, Amonor.
“I... I will,” Nahele started, “I will be there, and answer your questions.”