The transport came later than expected, but it did little to change the mood. The crew took care of the bodies while the rest found a spot to sit, stuffed into benches on the small cruiser. Doctor Kalio did what he could to patch everyone up, but several people were in severe conditions, especially after the lengthy wait. The ride back to the capitol was quiet, only the sound of the ship’s engines filling their ears.
Sam had left to speak with the captain, or he was off to do some work, Lanada wasn’t sure. They didn’t bother to look as they played a mindless mobile game on their Circle, trying to distract from the mood. Just as they thought he’d be gone until they landed, he entered the sitting room.
“Ildar, small town east of Falderheim, was just attacked. The Geldor are being fought back, but the Monarchy has a small garrison there. They won’t last long. Protections there were stretched pretty thin after Ingalderin,” Sam sighed.
“Are we going there?”
“No, the 5076th has another mission to do, they’re only taking us back to the Capitol. We’ll be getting another ride from there.”
“Damn. Well I hope they can manage without us.”
“They’ve redirected some forces, but I doubt they’ll get there in time. Everyone in the area was shot down or chased away by those guns. It was all planned out. I think it’s safe to say the Geldor have the town at this point.”
“What’s even the point? That’s a small little town far from the Capitol, or anything really. The Monarchy can fight and win it back easily, especially from the cliffs around it. The terrain makes transport difficult, I don’t see it being a good base either. They don’t benefit at all from this.”
“Maybe they’re just trying to get a win. We made it easy for them. Distracted by that cannon, and all our military are mostly north in Ingalderin and the Capitol.”
“That’s suspicious.”
They said nothing more as Sam sat down next to Lanada, rubbing his face in his hands.
“What do you think Lactain will do?” he asked quietly.
“Overreact. Bomb them. I don’t know. Why are you so unusually concerned?”
“Just maybe, Lanada, your words are actually getting to me.”
❂
The Capitol was overcast in the late afternoon; the usual conflicted weather of the Filaise Strip. The jungle breathed out humidity with help from the coming rain, casting a mist over the trees and the rest of the compound.
Lanada was quickly separated after leaving the ship, Sam splitting off to do some work. The rest sorted out their downed ship and the bodies, tasks that Lanada was happy not to help with. They had already helped bag the dead, enough even for their strong stomach.
They took a short break in their room while they settled down, their mind still racing. After a couple episodes of Love Dove, Lanada was still feeling unsettled, stir crazy.
They traveled back to the deep part of the Capitol, finding another block to immerse themself in. They tried just some novelty shopping first, missing tasteful decorations for their new apartment. That didn’t work. They found some good street food at one of the shopping courts, finding an ample table in the plaza to eat at. The food was only satisfactory.
They sighed as they continued to the usual club, caving in to their desires. The music was already too loud though, hitting their head with every bass hit. It was already giving them a headache. It was as if they had aged twenty years since the last time they had been in there. They stopped just in front of the door, trying to evaluate their feelings. Alcohol, beautiful people, and a fun time were on the other side of that door, but their head was swimming and their head was hurting. Each beat was like a gunshot.
They sighed and shook their head as they turned around in shame, lacking the energy to even peek inside. They trudged to a nearby bench, bending into their arms in exasperation. Their most recent battles sprinted across their mind, none of the thoughts holding any permanence. All that remained were the feelings.
“HUUUUHHHHHGHHHHAAAAA!”
A loud screech, moan, or some strange combination brought Lanada’s head back up. In front of them was Gerry, who was dramatically about to fall to the ground as if he were going to faint. A human was on his shoulder, releasing so he could perform his gesture.
“Gerry! Gerry I can’t believe it!”
“Hah, you look like shit, Lanada!”
“So do you, how much did you drink?”
“Hah, a lot. Sorry hon, but we’ll have to do this another time,” he excused his human companion, who gave him a quick kiss before walking back into the club.
“Sorry about your date…”
“Nah, I’m much more excited to see you. Where’ve you been? Whatcha been doing? How’s STAR treating you? I’m guessing badly looking at your face.”
“I’ve been surviving, that’s about all I can say.”
“Oooo, is the rest ‘classified’ or something?”
“No, I’m just exhausted. This war they have going with the Geldor, it’s getting rough.”
“Yeah, Ingalderin… Were you there? Fighting them?”
“Yep. They tried to bomb the city. Twice. Planted charges through the tunnels, then sent in bombers to finish the job.”
“Wow, glad I got out of there. You were still there to protect the city though, I’m sure you’re proud.”
“No. It’s all so unnecessary. They keep dragging us in deeper though, every damn day. The Geldor just took Ildar. I bet Lactain is throwing a temper tantrum right now.”
“When isn’t he? I want to hear everything though!”
“Not that interesting. I can give you some stories if you want. I’m more curious about you though, what happened? I know you moved out of Ingalderin, I was so confused! And why haven’t you been answering my messages?”
“I had to get a new Circle and a new number. Umm… Follow me, let’s get out of the public’s gaze for now, then we’ll talk.”
Lanada nodded and followed Gerry’s quick strides. It was as if he was in a full sprint while keeping both feet on the ground. They only needed to follow around a couple corners though, arriving at a rather small apartment. Gerry did a quick look side to side before unlocking the door and entering, being sure to close and lock it after Lanada. He looked scared, even though he had been beaming the entire time.
“Love Dove?”
Gerry turned on the TV for some background, inviting Lanada to sit on the couch with him. The apartment was smaller than his last place, but he seemed to be making it work, his belongings neatly packed away with the usual decorations.
“So, those gang people, right?”
“Is that why you’re here?”
“Yeah. I’m glad you gave me that gun training.”
“Oh Gerry… I’m so sorry.”
“Hey, you’re off saving the world; with STAR or from them. Nothing you could do.”
“Yeah… Tell me everything then.”
Gerry paused a moment, obviously trying to find the right words.
“Let’s get some weed going… By the gods…”
He looked disgruntled as he packed a bowl, starting it to hand off to Lanada.
“So, after you left, things were okay for a while, it was about a month after when things started. First, a couple people in black coats came to my door knocking. I was in my room at the time, so they didn’t see me. I acted like I wasn’t home, and after knocking a couple more times, they left. I thought that was it.
“Then, the very next day, three people showed up. They knocked, I tried to act like I wasn’t there, but it didn’t work that time. They broke the window to get in, they already had their guns out. I remembered what you said, and I was going to try to fight them, but… but I got scared, so I jumped out the back window and ran away. I waited five hours before going back, luckily they were gone.
“Then a few days went by with nothing happening, so I started my hookups again. I talked to this one guy, he was hot as fuck. So naturally, I invited him over. Yeah, he turned out to be one of the goons too. I was confused why he brought rope and a bat, but I just thought it was a kink thing. No. He knocked me out and then tied me up. When I woke up, it was night and another person was there with him. They asked me a bunch of questions about you, why you joined STAR, where were you now, what did I know, all kinds of stuff, I didn’t know most of the answers.
“Luckily they had tied me to that really shit chair, the one we broke a bit when I tried fighting you? They were looking at me the entire time though, so I waited for nearly an hour before even testing the ropes. I think it was two hours in when I got my chance. I rocked the chair back, and it broke. As soon as they heard the noise, they turned and started shooting. I had that gun in the kitchen though, and I got to it in time, then shot them before they could shoot me. Then, I called the cops.”
“You called the cops?!”
“What was I supposed to do? I was in a panic, I had just killed TWO PEOPLE and I don’t know how to hide a body! They broke and entered, so it was self defense! The cops came and sent in a team to help clean up, then they questioned me a bit. I didn’t tell them about you or the gang though, just that they had broken in and attacked me. I thought the gang would appreciate that I didn’t rat them out.”
“Um, how would they know that? And they don’t care, they see someone talking to a cop and they’re dead.”
“I know, I know, I’m getting to that.”
“Oh no.”
“Yeah. So now that the gang thought I sold them out to the cops, they sent a large van down my street. There were like five people that came out, I was watching them from my window. I don’t know if they saw me or not, but they just opened fire on my apartment. I hid in my room until it stopped. They were shooting for a straight couple of minutes until they quit, and I had that gun aimed out my bedroom door.
This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.
“They ended up coming upstairs and into my apartment. I shot them all from that hallway, using it as cover. I don’t think they expected me to fight back like that. Afterwards I had five dead bodies in my house. I was in a panic, so I started packing up, that was originally when I was going to leave. But I really liked the apartment and the area and my whole life there though, so after thinking a bit, I decided to go to STAR.”
“Oh my gods. STAR?!”
“I didn’t say I was thinking a lot!”
“How are you even still alive?!”
“I thought STAR would protect me! I had gang members shooting up my house every other day! I thought they could have someone stationed there to monitor or guard me, or that they would hide me until the gang was dealt with, something to help. Instead they made me fill out a really long form. I don’t think I even did it right.
“The next day I was just basically hiding in my apartment afraid. Same with the next two days. Then there were like five of their cars. They looked really angry. I grabbed what I had packed and jumped out of the back window again. I only stopped to tell the bureau that the apartment was no longer being occupied by me, and I fled. I decided to come here, figured it would be the safest, especially with you around. I changed all my contacts as well.”
“Damn, Gerry... I’m so sorry.”
“I know. I’m safe now though, and we’re reunited. That’s all that matters.”
“I’m glad. Are you still connected to your people in Ingalderin? With your co-op?”
“Barely. I had to go quiet for a while when I moved. I’ve been talking to some people here though, and it’s a start. I’m still tracking down my contacts from Ingalderin. I lost them when I, uh, smashed up my old Circle so the scary gang people couldn't track me or follow me anywhere and I hope it worked!! Things are getting back on track, basically. It’s hard to recruit though, everyone chooses the Monarchy or the Geldor over us.”
“Those people are dangerous, I doubt you’d want those people anyways… I was so worried about you.”
“I was worried about you, you’re the one being toyed around with by STAR.”
“Yeah. It pisses me off. There are some good people here though, but we’re all following the same orders. At the end of the day, none of them—us are good. Everybody is complicit in this mess. And the more they see each other die, they just become more blindsighted by rage. STAR is falling apart. I’ve seen so many die in these battles, and all it’s led to is even more death.”
“Shit. Heavy. Give me the details, if it’s not too bleak.”
“I’ll give you the PG version.”
“Come on, I’m not a kid! I can handle it! I watch slashers, porn, the news…”
“No Gerry, the PG rating is for myself.”
❂
Lanada was happy they had reconnected with Gerry. A large part of their stress had been lifted knowing he was okay, and with his new number they were texting back and forth at their usual rate. Even after they left, Lanada video called Gerry, talking until they fell asleep. They wished they hadn’t slept, and that night, just talking to him, could last forever.
Unfortunately though, it was over in an instant as it became day. Lanada groaned awake, checking their Circle for more notifications. Sam had been frantically calling them, his last message stating he was on his way over. Coincidentally, Lanada heard him knock on the door, his usual pattern thudding through the apartment.
“Lanadaaaaaa!”
Lanada was sleepy and not in the mood for Sam’s energy so soon after waking up. They let out a feeble “come in!” then rolled back over.
“It’s loooooocked!”
“Uggghhggghhhh!”
Lanada stormed up, allowing Sam in. His face was scrunched up from stress, his body shaking as he sat on a kitchen stool.
“The Geldor officially have Ildar under their control. They released a statement after the Monarchy retreated, listen to the translation.”
He poked around his Circle to play an audio file, leaving Lanada swaying around nearby. It was too early for such a shock.
“The Geldor have established Ildar as an autonomous zone, the first place free from this oppressive Monarchy. We invite you to witness our future; a new standard for peace that we will spread across Mikoril. All of Lactain’s police and soldiers have been driven away, taking any sympathizers with them. When they return, we will be ready to protect you against Lactain and his cronies. Come join our fight, or join our peace in Ildar.”
“Oh fuck. That's gonna piss him off.”
“Yeah. There's no way they have the forces to defend that town after Ingaldrin.”
“They have to know Lactain will retaliate. They’re putting all those people in danger.”
“I’m guessing it’s a recruitment tactic. If Mikoril does attack and innocent people are killed, that’ll only make them hate us more. Even if nobody dies, shutting down the zone will make some progressives angry. STAR already sees everyone in that town as a Geldor sympathizer. If they attack, they won’t be gentle that’s for sure.”
“Do you know STAR’s plans yet?”
“No, they scheduled a briefing in two days. I’m going to talk to Reyna, and then Rendell if I can. You should come with me.”
“Yeah, of course. I like the change of heart.”
“I’ve always wanted peace Lanada. You’ve just made me think about things differently. The Monarchy isn’t interested in protecting people. I have to make my own decisions if I want to help anyone.”
“Aww look at you trying to save the world! It’s cheesy, but I appreciate it nonetheless.”
“Whatever. Let’s go.”
Sam looked worried as he led Lanada to the STAR office, keeping a quick enough pace that Lanada was fighting for breath in his stead. He fidgeted endlessly on the elevator, rocking his feet and finding new ways for his fingers to move. Lanada stood still meanwhile, their head spinning. When they got to the office, it was busy with agents and operatives, chattering and walking about as they frantically served their tasks.
“Reyna, we need to talk.”
“Yeah, what is it Sam?”
“What are the plans with Ildar?”
“As of right now, we’re waiting for enough of our operatives to finish their assignments. We need to recoup our forces to liberate the town. We’ll be launching a full assault, no holds barred. We’ll need bombs to draw them out. They’re all holed up there as far as we know. Thought that would be obvious.”
“Yeah, we can’t let that happen.”
“Why not?" Reyna looked confused.
"You want to bomb Ildar Reyna? Do you hear yourself?!”
“Not what I want. Those are our orders Sam.”
“This will only escalate things! Innocent people will get caught up in this!"
"Things have already escalated. We haven't had time to breathe since Ingalderin and we can't let them get ahead, you know this. They invaded and captured a town, forced anyone who’s not with them out. What would you even suggest we do?”
“We need to get the Geldor out! The rest of those people have nothing to do with them! We can’t kill them just because the Geldor took their town! It’s still those people’s homes!”
“They chose their allegiance when the Geldor first came. Anyone left in that town is with them. And after what we’ve been through, we’re not taking any chances Sam. Not with those terrorists, and not with our strategies.”
“It’ll be a massacre! Those people aren’t fighters!”
“That’s because they’re only fighters in training.”
“Right well they won’t have a chance to train if you just kill them all!”
“Exactly, Sam. Either way, these orders come from the top. King Lactain himself. Even Rendell doesn’t have a say. Sorry Sam.”
“I’ll go speak to Rendell then.”
“It won’t change anything.”
“I don’t care. If I find King Lactain, I’ll talk to him too.”
“There’s nothing you can do, Sam. Good luck though.”
“How are you fine with this?!”
“I can’t disobey direct orders, Sam. You understand that better than anybody. You’ve always tried to act better than us, it reminds me of Randy.”
He flashed Reyna a very bitter look.
“Not wanting people to die isn’t acting better, Reyna.”
He didn’t wait for Reyna to respond before he turned and walked out the door, waiting for Lanada to slam it behind them. He stood for a moment, putting pressure on his face. Lanada was largely uncomfortable with their superiors, so they let him take the lead. He’d be able to talk them down most likely as well. STAR still loved him, no matter how much he hurt them,
“Rendell’s office is on the 14th floor. She should be there now.”
Lanada and Sam went back to the elevator, climbing the few floors in between them and Rendell. When they arrived, the hallways were shorter, with fewer doors. The plaques were even larger, only having the office holder’s name rather than the service itself. Rendell’s door was close to the elevator, waiting for Sam to knock in his usual intensity.
“Rendell, we need to talk.”
“Sure Sam, Lanada. What’s up?”
“The attack planned for Ildar, it needs to stop. Innocent people are going to get killed, and the Geldor will only grow.”
“Uhm. Say what?”
“If we attack the Geldor, all those people living there will be killed! We need to think about this differently, find a new approach.”
“Too late for that Sam, we’ve already got a plan made. Whatever their reasons are, I’m sure they know what they’re doing. Just trust your superiors Sam, when have we let you down? You’re moving up in STAR, you’ll be able to make these decisions sooner than you think.”
“This isn’t about me. I’m saying those plans are wrong. We can’t carry them out! The Geldor want us to come in and kill them! They want STAR to look like murderers!”
“They are murderers, Sam. We won’t just sit idly while they occupy a town. It doesn’t matter what their plan is, we’re taking back Ildar. That’s final.”
“But—”
“That’s final. Sam.”
Sam glared at Rendell for a few seconds, a note of shock and disappointment in his eye. He only turned and walked out, discouraged. When the door closed behind, he didn’t bother immediately walking to the elevator.
“What can we do now?” Sam looked to Lanada.
“You’re asking me?”
“Yeah.”
“You’re the STAR guy, you know more about their official channels and rules and everything.”
“None of that matters anymore. All that matters is protecting those people.”
“Right. Then, I would suggest we try to get a ship and get to Ildar first. Maybe we can take out the Geldor there before the military is even close. Something like that. Maybe convince the people there to evacuate? Even just tell them about the attack?”
“I can’t think of anything better. Don’t know where we’ll find a ship though. Or a crew that would take us there. STAR doesn’t allow any unofficial travel, they would be breaking a lot of rules and regulations.”
“What about Bofi?”
“Who’s that?”
“Captain Jenill? You’re telling me you still don’t know her name?”
“Right. She was just assigned a new ship after her last was shot down, most of her crew should have stuck with her too. I know where her apartment’s at, follow me.”
With new direction, they went back down the elevator, entering the civilian sector. Bofi’s apartment was a bit further than Lanada’s, not being an official STAR agent herself. After knocking, she was very sleepy upon opening the door, still not dressed for the day.
“Bofi, can we come in? We need to talk.”
“Lanada? Sam? Yeah, come on in. What are you doing here?”
Sam waited to respond until the door was closed.
“STAR is planning to attack Ildar to free it from the Geldor.”
“Yeah? I know…”
“They’re saying the people from Ildar that didn’t evacuate are all with the Geldor now. They’ll be using bombs to start the attack. It sounds like they want to wipe out the city. The Geldor definitely don’t have the numbers to defend that town either. Those people will die when they have to defend themselves. It’s like, the Geldor and the Monarchy want a massacre!”
“Shit, I see what you mean. Did you talk to Reyna? Rendell?”
“Yeah, they won’t listen though. Or at least they won’t break their orders.”
“Shit. Why are you here then?”
“We need a ship. We need to get to Ildar first.”
“What good will that do?”
“I don’t know. Kill the Geldor first? Maybe we can talk them down, find evidence of their plans, something to stop King Lactain or change his mind. We’re down to our final options here.”
“I just got a new ship, they really wouldn’t like it if my first flight in it was against regulation.”
“I know it’s risky, but we have no other option. I’m sorry it has to be you.”
“Don’t be, I’ll help. I’d rather lose my position than see all those people die. My crew only follow orders from me, they can help without getting in trouble. We’ll be ready for you. One hour? Still need the engineers to do a final evaluation of the ship before we can take off.”
“Thank you. Thank you so much, Bofi.”
“Aww Sam! My first name? You know it?”
“Lanada told me, but if I’m going to be asking you to break orders, might as well be on a first name basis.”
“Yeah, especially since I’ve always called you Sam.”
“That’s all in the past, no need to fret over it.”
“Heh. Go get ready. The new ship is called the Fera, it’s a cruiser so it’s a bit smaller. Had to downsize with the crew we lost.”
“It’ll be perfect anyways, good luck.”