"Commander? May I come in?" I said through the door to her office. If I had known any better, I could've waited for about a few more hours until I had decided to report what happened during my first patrol. Still, I couldn't allow my exhaustion get to me as even my breathing became heavy with impatience.

All night long, all I could think about were the hooded men that tried to sneak past me. "But for what reason?" I kept asking myself that throughout my guard duty. Looking back, I wanted to dismiss that as some sort of joke played to play on soldiers. But, looking at the fact that this was my first time doing an actual job, I don't exactly know what to expect from people like them. However, it was sure to say that if it was a joke, there should be laughter. But there was none.

All the dark figures only gave me panicked voices. But really, at this point in time, I don't even know what to think of it anymore. All this thinking had gotten to the better of me during my duty, unfortunately. I barely even paid attention to anything around me as I walked around aimlessly, thinking that West was North, losing count on my steps in the process.

I can barely even remember what happened past midnight. Though I didn't sleep, last night felt like a dream more than anything. It could barely pass a memory, or a single afterthought at all.

But as my eyelids began drooping in front of my very own eyes, the door made a loud creaking noise as Commander Lucien opened it. I looked up to her, wearing a red nightgown that could barely even fit her. She looked like she had a good night's sleep. At least she got that, anyway. "I thought you heard me say 'yes' a few seconds ago..." she growled, her face making a slight frown. Whether she was infuriated with me or just slightly annoyed, I couldn't even tell anymore.

I am really getting sleepy...

"Well, come in! Before anyone sees..." irritated, she grabbed my hand and dragged me inside. My body's responded quickly as my senses snapped me back to the waking world.

I then realized what kind of situation I was in. "I'm sorry to disturb you at this hour, commander!" I immediately said, bowing as straight as I could. The sudden surge of adrenaline kicked the remainder of the sleep that was on my eyelids. Commander Lucien merely waved her hand, dismissing the disturbance. "I'm here to report something..." with this, I immediately caught her attention. Looking awfully pleased, she crossed her arms in front of her chest as she grinned. "Oh? First day on the job? My, my, I didn't expect this from you~"

Hesitation had built up inside me in the form of a lump in my throat. My nerves were getting to me, but I spoke to rid myself of these thoughts immediately. "Last night, there were a few hooded men that were lurking around the outpost..." I paused. Commander Lucien's smile faded as she narrowed her eyes, focusing on my words alone.

Knowing I had her attention somehow improved my mood, so I continued, "I was unable to see their faces, but seeing as they were quick to run from me, I could only assume that they wanted to pass through here to Atlas without clearance." she nodded at my explanation while still holding a serious expression.

"Have they dropped anything during their run?" she pressed.

"I have searched the grass before I returned to my post. I have found nothing, unfortunately..." I bowed my head apologetically.

"Understandable..." she said, smiling as she did so. I did, however, expect her to dismiss it as a mere mistake, but it was still my mistake. Silently, I told myself to do better next time, or else there won't be a next time.

However, the fact still remained: their appearances did not make any sort of sense. Commander Lucien held her chin with her hand and closed her eyes. Seeing that, though, I was sure she was thinking about their motives. It had to connect to something, after all. As much as I hate to admit it, I did not know what this was at all.

"Commander...?"

"Yes?" she looked up as she smiled. Sure enough, it was a face of satisfaction.

"I'm still lost here..." I laughed sheepishly as I scratched the back of my head with my right hand.

"Ho? Why is that?" Commander Lucien smirked, raising her eyebrow as she chuckled quietly.

"Does their appearance here mean anything?"

She merely sighed at this with a somewhat disappointed face. "You reported this to me, but you don't know why?" she narrowed her eyes at me fiercely. The sharp gaze made my hair stand on end.

"I'm sorry if I sound ignorant about it, but I've been thinking about it during my duty..." I admitted quietly. It was true, though, and I don't intend to pull wool over my superior's eyes. She, at least, deserved that much.

With that, though, she was surprised that I was quick to admit to my mistake in the first place, as if this was the first time someone treated her with respect. She cleared her throat, and spoke calmly, "If you don't know, there is a rumor about a drug smuggling incident back at the Capitol..."

"What!?" I yelled, but I didn't mean to. Although I couldn't help it as much as the next person would. The commander could only flinch at the volume of my voice. Nevertheless, she continued with a forced sigh, "Yes, but right now we don't have any leads, nor do we have any evidence suggesting that these men you saw last night were connected to the drug distribution. For all I know, it may just be a coincidence..."

Even though my mind wanted to argue back, I couldn't find the resolve to do it. I merely stood there on the spot as I took in her explanation, and slowly realized with a defeated sigh that she made perfect sense.

Perhaps I was overthinking it.

It could be that, or that I wanted to do more than what I was expected to do so in a short amount of time. I knew that deep in my heart that this job was meant to be boring and that one shouldn't expect much from it, but I just wanted to make something out of the ordinary. Along with my own expectations to this job, my was sincerely disappointed with myself.

I knew I needed to do better. Although, the opportunity that that will arrive is as good as any other's guess.

"Regardless, thank you for your report, Von Zayne."Commander Lucien spoke as she gave me a small smile. "We'll have to be more vigilant from now on." she added. She walked to the front door and opened it. "Now, I'm sure you're tired from staying up all night. Go, you earned some sleep~"

Now that she has mentioned it, my body was now beginning to give up on me. Despite the situation about the drugs not going anywhere, I was still happy that my efforts last night are getting recognized by my superior. For now, that was all I could accept. My eyes were already drooping, and sweat was trickling down my forehead as my uniform was now beginning to become damp. I straightened myself and gave her a lazy salute. "Yes, ma'am..." I said weakly, excusing myself through the door she opened herself.

My mind didn't exactly function on the walk back to the barracks. Still, I did all I could to stay awake. I heard a few of my comrades greet me, but all I could do was give them a small wave and a "g'morning..." as I fought both my sleep and the distance back.

More or less, I was like a walking zombie as I made my way to my own bed. I looked around, and saw that everyone was off to their morning duties. I stopped as I glanced at the bed in front of me. It was clean and fresh, and my body was already screaming at me that I rest immediately the moment I saw the warm bed before me. But, as fate would have it, I groaned silently as I slowly took of my clothes, throwing them near the clothing crate before snuggling underneath the bed sheets.

As I laid there for a few minutes, I could no longer fight the sleep in my eyes as I slowly drifted into the clutches of slumber. My body was now heavier, and the chirping of the birds outside only lulled me deeper in sleep. It was only the second time I stayed up all night, and it wouldn't be the last so long as I remain in the army.

With that, though, I sighed contently, letting the final grasp of sleep take me at last.

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I woke up a few hours later, as my body was now reacting to the heat around me. Though the entirety of the bed was now covered in sweat, I felt refreshed. More or less, at least. Still, I couldn't deny the fact that the sheets were now wet. But instead of actually getting up, I remained there for a bit. It was true that duty was calling, I can't help but get in a bit more rest. It may be greedy and I may be pushing my limits here, but I felt like I needed it.

After all, I still need to take in my current situation.

I don't need to over think too much, though, with what happened with the three hooded men last night, but I couldn't just walk around without really resting my thoughts here. It had only been a day since my graduation and I'm already in the thick of it all. I wouldn't complain, but for someone ordinary, it would be a lot to take in.

Though, I wouldn't have the gall to say I'm ordinary anymore.

I would be surprised that anyone would be able to remain calm in my situation. My heart remained a steady, fast beat ever since I got here, and since I still have to get used to my new environment, I had to remain somewhat vigilant. Regardless of what I need to settle within the depths of my mind, though, my nerves were no longer on edge. Settling on the calmness of my body, I got up.

I looked to my right and saw my untouched trunk at the foot of the bed. My hands made their way well unto the back of my neck as I realized that I still haven't fully unpacked yet. The only items that I managed to scrape out of there are my clothes and, beyond that, nothing more. As much as I wanted to unpack this now so I wouldn't bother later, there were still duties that I need to attend to today. The possibility that there would be more if I didn't get to do these in time is high, so I really can't afford to slack off.

I took my uniform and threw it over me. It was still a few days until wash day from what I heard, so I had no choice but to tolerate my garments a bit more in the coming days. Besides, what's going to happen otherwise, right? As much as I hate to admit it, I have gotten used to the fact that I run around with used clothing on me. I sighed as I strapped the sword sheathe around my back as I headed for the watchtower.

The fact that I still needed to go to the watchtower to get my daily memo almost flew over my head. There would be several things that I would like to blame this on, like the fact that the training back at the encampment had a schedule. It was so straightforward that I didn't need to think in order to go through the day. Other ones like everyone back at the encampment had relied on their P.U.P.s for updates and memos, but I still had to convince myself that I was no longer training. I am now out in the field doing possibly life threatening jobs, and that I need to get used to this as soon as I can.

It only took about a moment to run to the watchtower, tear the notes from the bulletin, and head back into the mess hall. One note didn't mean anything, unfortunately, aside from it being a reminder to do our jobs within the week. Unfortunately for me, I was too caught up in moving here that I didn't get the chance to have a closer look on the calendar just outside the barracks tent.

The fact that there was so much things to keep track of on the job makes me feel even more nervous about it than anyone.

However, the other note was from the commander herself. This was an excuse note, one that would make sure that I would get lunch regardless of being late to the initial serving. This took me by surprise, actually. To think that she is this considerate of her subordinates makes me wonder why people talk behind her back in the first place.

Moving that train of thought aside, I handed the excuse note to one of the servers. He gave me a disgusted look before heading back into the kitchen with a frown. I decided to sit down on one of the many empty tables in the hall, one that was closer to the kitchen. A few moments later, he came back with a tray. On the tray was a chunk of longtail steak, boomshroom salad, and butternut ale. I gave him my thanks before mumbling something inappropriate. Looking at the sun's rays, I'm sure that it is still a few minutes after noon. More or less, I had the whole afternoon for myself and one task.

I took out the two notes from yesterday. I sliced a bit of the longtail steak and shoved it in my mouth as I had decided on which task I shall do today. On one hand, a rabid pack of Blue Wolves. Wolves themselves can be ignored since they can be docile and they tend to mind their own business, but the danger of being bitten by one is quite frightening, especially in a pack. The risk of getting mauled by rows of sharp teeth isn't worth risking your life over a bounty. Moreover, it is even more dangerous that the pack itself is full of rabid ones. For this case, I have to play the waiting game; I have to pick them off one by one. The unpredictability of these creatures can make life on prairie living hell.

On the other hand, though, a buzzwing nest. For all my life, buzzwings aren't that dangerous but they are common pests. They tend to hang around crops and disturb the locals by their noisy buzzing wings. Though a bite from a buzzwing can be treated by herbs, several unattended bites can often lead to sickness and, in incredibly rare instances, death.

If I had to choose between a buzzwing nest and a pack of rabid blue wolves, I'd rather choose to exterminate the pests rather than shepherd death into my hands.

Once I had decided on what I should be doing today, I finished up the last scrapes of the boomshroom salad and gulped the last bit of ale before heading toward the well to freshen up. Normally, I'd find it unwise to get wet when my clothes are already damp with sweat, but again, I had to suck it up in the meantime. After splashing a few handfuls of water on my face, I went out to the outpost entrance. The loud metal thuds of my armor echoed through the silent outpost as my footsteps were hastened by excitement. Greeting the day's sentinel, I headed out onto the same path I had taken to Fraxinus.

It only took a few minutes for me to get to the village. It wasn't far, but the second journey here made it unreasonably boring and quick. Much to my displeasure. I took out the request for the buzzwing nest for more details, but the only detail was that it was nearby.

I sighed in defeat. If only they could be more specific.

Looking around, it would seem the villagers are all inside their houses at this time of day. I could only groan at this. Now, I had to search for it myself. However, at the same time, I was also thankful for the lack of people around. I think it would be best if I only focused on my task, rather than bother the villagers.

It would seem right that way.

Taking another glance around me, there was no sight of the nest, nor was there any noise of buzzing to begin with. I figured it would be best for me to look around at a vantage point. That way, I could maximize the time spent searching for it. As luck would have it, there was a fairly large hill that was west of the village.

I headed there excitedly. However, the excitement in my eyes was drain immediately at the sight of what was in front of me: thick patches of grass. Groaning, I tread over it. It felt too much work for such a simple action. Not to mention, it can easily drain one's stamina if they're not used to it. I have seen people sweating from just treading a few meters.

But, with patience and tolerance, I was able to reach the foot of the hill that had fairly low grass. Looking around, the grass looked like they were parted to make a pathway. Following the trail, I noticed it lead straight toward the village. But disregarding the details, I climbed up the hill.

I thought it was the heat of the Sun getting on my nerves, but the sound of buzzing was getting louder and louder as I approached the top. It only got louder from there as I reached the summit. There it was, a large buzzwing nest producing so much noise that you can barely hear your own voice.

I have dealt with buzzwings in the past, as they were the main pests to look out for when having a big farm with tons of crops. Though they are quite big and are the size of a large ball, they are fairly weak but they shouldn't be underestimated in a big swarm. Looking at the nest, however, it would only seem that this one was fairly new and that the little bugs are still reproducing. Still, this one would grow larger if left unchecked and it probably is the reason why the crops around Fraxinus are destroyed and withering.

All one has to do is to kill them as fast as they can before they get engulfed in a swarm. Cracking my knuckles, I unsheathed my perfectly polished sword that I didn't get to use for a while. The oil on the blade allowed me to see my own reflection. I swung the blade against a nearby buzzwing. I felt the sword slice through the flesh of the insect with relative ease, getting quite a good feel of the handle as the buzzwing corpse fell flat on the grass with a soft thud.

Now that is a sharp blade.

I wasted no time in slicing them up one by one. The level of sharpness that my sword had in the moment as unnerving, even for me, but I kept swinging. With each passing moment, corpses fell one after the other in a cruel symphony of greenish blood. But, as the swarm was thinning down, I heard a loud scream at the foot of the hill. Instincts immediately took over me as I ran toward the opposite end of the hill peak. Looking down, I saw a man with purple hair lying on the grass between rocks.

I knew I had to get this random person out of the area. But, as fate would have it, the buzzing became louder. I looked back at the nest. The next thing I knew, the nest itself was writhing, as if it was going to explode at any minute as the buzzing became louder and louder.

Then I remembered something my father had said to me when he was teaching me a lesson on how to deal with common farm pests. The memory played itself in front of my eyes in full clarity that I doubt I was even reminiscing to begin with. "Buzzwings reproduce only once a season, but when they do, son, the larvae grow so fast that the nest can't handle the amount all at once." Father began explaining in a gloomy tone. It was clear in his face that he was sick and tired of dealing with these pests every time a new season comes. He turned to me as he took out a rusty machete. "That's why we need to destroy the nest once we find it." without any hesitation, he yanked my arm and placed the machete in between my fingers. "You sure you're up for the task?" I nodded as I looked back at the rusted blade in my hands.

And that was when I realized that I was too late to stop the larvae from growing. The buzzing became a thundering growl as the nest bursts open with a newer, thicker swarm. I felt all the eyes of the buzzwings on me, but they ignored me. I looked back and ran to the fainted man.

I had to get him out of here as fast as I can.

Sliding down the hillside, I stumbled toward him. Kneeling down, I shook his body. "Hey! Wake up!" I yelled. He did not respond at all. Violently shaking him once more, I yelled again, "Hey! Hey!" It was clear that he was out cold. I looked up, the buzzwing swarm was getting nearer. I was left with no other choice. I needed to carry the man. Unsheathing my sword, I threw him over my shoulder and ran.

I don't know what this guy was thinking running around aimlessly, but I have to tell him off once he wakes up. I don't want to deal with people who would throw away their lives senselessly again. Doubts began to plague my mind, and I was already imagining unlikely scenarios that further fueled my fears. The moment was too much for my mind to handle. But, as the distance between me and the buzzwing swarm became greater, the unthinkable happened.

Pain.

Raw pain surged through my body from my right arm. Strength had left my legs as I tumbled down on the grass along with the man I was carrying. The echoing agony continued for longer than I would've wanted, but it faded eventually. I knelt down as I caught my breath. I noticed that I was already having cold sweat drip down from my face unto the grass. The pain was still there, and it remained there in my arm. I could feel the pain reaching into my right chest as it pulsated. Soon, the pain died down, but I was left with a dry taste in my mouth as well as the familiar numbness that came with it.

It was a feeling I knew too well for the short time I had it.

I felt my body move on its own. My mind was practically begging for control. My numb hand had already reached for my sword, and I was forced to feel it slowly dragged out from the oily sheath. My eyes were now locked on the unconscious man before me, completely blocking out the buzzing noise from the swarm nearby. Then, the desire to kill and take the man's life was growing bigger by the moment.

It was this point that I was screaming at myself. I felt like crying, even. I let out a silent yell at my muscles to obey my will and my desire to not harm this man, and as I was feeling helpless from my attempt, the numbness faded, followed by a ringing sound in my ears. Of course, what followed after that was another surge of pain from my right arm as I felt the sense of control coming back into my very muscles as I saw them cramp and spasm. I fell to the ground, screaming uncontrollably. My throat was beginning to become dry from all this. Fortunately, the pain did not last, and I was already grasping for air before I even knew what was happening.

I hastily picked myself up, grabbing my sword as I stood up.

Though I regained control, the same empty feeling that was this lust for killing remained. I looked down at the man, who was now lying face down. Taking a deep breath, I told myself that it was not the correct choice. Then, I saw the sky darken as both me and the man on the grass were now enveloped in the shadows of the swarm surrounding us.

Then, like a click in the dark, my mind had given me a new, twisted idea: If I was not to harm this man, then maybe the carnage in wiping these annoying insects would be an appropriate second choice.

I felt my mouth form a dark smile as I realized what I needed to do. I took my blade and held it in front of me. I could see myself clearly, even from the green blood and oil that covered it. My messy brown hair was even messier then usual, but what really made my stomach sink was my eyes. Instead of the deep orange that I would usually see, it was a shade of bloody crimson.

I shook my head. I knew that wasn't me; that was the Eclipse. So this was the curse at full circle, huh? Whatever the case, my mind is still my own, and if I can protect this man while having this desire to take so many lives, then I can get through most of my life with a smile.

Raising my sword, I brought the blade down with my weight against a charging buzzwing. The insect in question was sliced cleanly in two. I felt some of its life on my blade before flowing to the mark on my hand to be absorbed. I felt a bit relieved. I swung again, another died. I did it again, and so died another.

Each ounce of buzzwing blood was flowing into my hand. The pain and guilt of taking a life was there, but it was overthrown by the thrill of the fight. The blood lust was fading; I felt so alive.

A few moments had passed, the buzzing became quieter as I killed more and more buzzwings. Soon, only one had remained, its pitiful noise was significantly quieter than what it was before. But, knowing full well that they can return the next season, I skewered the lonesome insect. It's blood sprayed unto the grass as it's corpse slid off my sword. I went back up the hill to the nest. I remember the first time I had destroyed a buzzwing nest, and this wouldn't be the last. As I sliced it into many bits and pieces, there were no more buzzwings left to protect it, and what was left of the nest was an empty husk.

Though I felt alive killing all those insects, my mind was whispering in the back of my ear that I should feel bad about it. My own internal self argued that those were lives. However, even my doubts agreed that I needed to exterminate every last one of those things to survive and to protect this foolish person that wandered off here.

As I slid down the hill and walked back to where I left the unconscious man, he was already awake. He looked around, only to gag at the smell that was the rotting buzzwing corpses around him. Then, his eyes were now on me. "What happened?" the purple haired man asked me as he clutched his head with his left hand. "You passed out near a buzzwing nest." As soon as he heard that, he panicked and began checking himself for injuries. I only let out a small chuckle. "Don't worry, you're fine." I said with a small wave. He sighed in relief before averting his gaze from me. "How can I ever repay you?" he said, lowering his head in shame. "Just be careful next time. There won't be someone to protect you the next time you pass out..." I said bluntly.

As much as it feels uncomfortable to use my authority, I really don't have that much of a choice. I needed this man to understand that he's not safe alone, and that I won't be there to save his skin the next time.

"Oh, uh... Alright. I'll head back to the village..." he mumbled as he scurried off the grass back to the village. But before he did that, he actually turned around and bowed. "Thank you for saving me!" with one final act of gratitude, he disappeared behind the hill to Fraxinus.

On my end, I was happy he was safe. But no matter how relieved I am that this whole situation was over, I couldn't help but feel a bit of unease with him. I can't quite put it myself, but there is something strange about the man.

Not that he was foolish, no. In fact, it was more than just a simple act of making a mistake.

The right arm was writhing in pain that was much more uncomfortable than what I'm used to. I didn't feel like it was a big deal, but the discomfort in my right arm only faded when he was gone. I could only think of it as something to do with the void, like Nolva. But unlike Nolva, she didn't give me such discomfort when she was around me. What's more strange, however, were his eyes. One of them was a perfect shade of purple, much like his hair. But the other one was a color of light blue. What's more was that his blue eye had glowed when he laid his eyes on me.

Perhaps I'm overthinking this a little bit too much. I have to admit, exterminating all those buzzwings did make me feel a bit exhausted.

With one strong stroke, the blood that was on my blade was now splattered on the grass. Finally, I had the chance to sheathe my sword after a long day. Looking around, these buzzwing corpses would most likely serve as fertilizers for the grass. After straightening my back, I finally headed back to the outpost.

The walk only took several minutes, though. The same amount of exhaustion overcame me as I arrived at the front entrance of the outpost. Looking up the sky, the Sun was already starting to set. I don't know how much time I spent exterminating those buzzwings, but it seems that today's work will have to end today. I lazily walked past today's sentinel with a small smile and wave before heading back to the barracks.

Walking toward my side of the tent, ignoring everyone else that had already arrived from their day's work, I threw my sword onto my bed and plopped on it with a tired grunt. I spent at least five minutes wallowing in the softness of the sheets. But, even though today's work was over, it didn't mean I had nothing to do. I slowly turned my head to the left, finally able to take in fresh air after a while. It was also when I saw my untouched trunk at the foot of the bed. Realizing this, I slowly and agonizingly went over to the trunk.

As I opened it, I've already came to the conclusion that I was going to be here a while...

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I couldn't remember much about what happened at beyond sunset yesterday. All I knew was that everyone in the outpost got drunk for some reason. Even the commander herself. But, for a guy that drinks moderately, I couldn't get off just like that. I still haven't lasted a week here and I wouldn't dare let myself get drunk soon.

At least, as I woke up today, I felt refreshed. There wasn't anything to it, but it felt like I was back at my home in the middle of nowhere again. The wind was generous today, as the falling rays of sunshine on my bed just weren't as hot as I expected them to be. But like all things should, I needed to face the day ahead of me with diligence.

As much as ordinary as it may seem to be, it was now my third day here in Acies outpost. I jumped off my bed and did some morning stretches. After a few minutes of warming up my muscles for a new day, I took off my clothes and threw them unto the clothing crate that was still noticeably empty aside from two of my already used garments.

Pushing the thought of wash day back into the mind, I wore a fresh set undergarments and wore my uniform. With that, I grabbed my sword and headed out to the bulletin to get yet another memo.

Give me a few weeks here and I would already be used to the routines here.

I had noticed that no one had taken today's post as sentinel yet, which I found odd considering there would always be one every morning. The lack of the sentinel's presence made me somewhat nervous of my surroundings, even when I was already surrounded with armed men. It was only when I tore off the memo from today that I was the sentinel for the morning shift.

I only stood there with visible confusion on my face. I didn't have any sort of experience with this, and I haven't got the chance to even observe what the sentinels should do during their duties because of my already pending tasks. That, and I got too caught up with the night patrol for the thought to even cross my mind.

But before the panic could even get to me, I heard the sound of shattering glass and the familiar aroma of pink smoke. "Private~" I heard Commander Lucien's cutesy voice as I turned around to face her. I sighed, but that one sigh meant two things: I was grateful that she was going to instruct me, and that I was going to deal with her flirting as we go along with it.

Then I remembered what actually happened last night...

Everyone was dead drunk and I was still sitting there happy munching away at dozens of boomshroom kebabs. It was until the commander saw my lonely self that she went full on seductress on me and tried to get my attention off my food and into her. I tried to dutifully back off before anything escalated, but I only got a bonk to the head that may have caused me to forget everything. I may or may not have felt my face being dragged into the dirt, but that's besides the point.

But now, seeing as though she was sobered up, I had to deal with her again. Not that I wouldn't enjoy being with my superiors. That would just be disrespectful.

So, I straightened myself up, gave her a salute, and greeted her before standing at ease. "Alright, then. Let's get started, shall we~?" I merely nodded as she pulled out a parchment scroll. Her eyes darted quickly from the top of the scroll to the bottom a few times. She sighed as the smrik on her face faded before explaining what I needed to do in a, surprisingly, bored tone, "All you need to do is to watch over any outside activity at the landing atop this watchtower. That's it, really. It's no different than foot patrol at night." she shrugged as she rolled the scroll and put it away. "If there are any transportation that comes through here, they must stop in front of the outpost near the booth over at the main road..." she pointed at the main entrance. I took a peek myself, and saw a wooden booth on the side of the road. "If they don't, well..." she scratched the back of her head. "...just stop them. Use force if they don't comply, alright~?" she smirked as she took out a potion with pink liquid. "Don't let me down~" With that, she gave me one of her signature winks before throwing the potion down at her feet as pink smoke erupted from the place it shattered. The smoke engulfed me in an instant, causing me to cough uncontrollably for a few seconds. The fresh scent of roses filled my lungs, then came the prairie air.

Then, she's gone...

Although that was a bit surprising that she didn't drone on and be all flirty with me, I was still taken aback from how fast it went. Well, to be honest, a sentinel's job isn't that hard to begin with. After realizing the simplicity of my morning job, I quickly climbed the flight of stairs that lead to the top platform of the watchtower. It took a while, but as I arrived there, I could see entire outpost area from that height. Even the activity inside the outpost. However, monitoring the happenings in the outpost wasn't part of my job today.

I looked around, and saw the pathways that needed to be overlooked from here. There was the main road, leading north toward, I'd assume, another outpost, and from that branched another pathway leading west to Atlas. The main road itself was right in front of the Acies Outpost, and the crossroads that lead to Atlas were slightly north from the main entrance. Looking to my right, the remainder of the main road turned left and it began heading east, presumably toward Corona, while there was a slightly visible grass pathway that branched from it leading to Fraxinus. Though, I could only guess that the main road was heading toward Corona since the village itself was a destination meant for travelling merchants and trade dealers. The commerce in Corona meant that the two outposts near the borders, Acies and Arenae, had the privilege of resupplying there.

Besides, Corona wasn't that far from here from what I remembered three days ago...

Though it was a small area to overlook, the fact that I have to remain vigilant for any travelers that come around these parts was all it took for me to not get bored as soon as a few minutes had passed. I decided to take a seat and wait.

But as seconds became minutes and minutes became hours, the heat of the Sun was already getting to me. I admit the constant breeze was a welcoming gift from the world, but it didn't help as much as I wanted it to. But, as luck would have it, I heard the sound of footsteps that were echoing from the stairs behind me. All of that came from a comrade to tell me that my shift was over. I sighed in relief. "Finally..." I muttered to myself.

The heat was becoming unbearable...

I climbed down the flight of stairs as I looked back at the watchtower. As soon as I left my post, another soldier climbed the stairs and took my place. All I could do was wish him good luck as sweat dripped from my forehead to emphasize what I meant. All that was left was to eat lunch at the mess hall.

I do have to admit that I felt like I wasted some of my precious time watching over the outpost, but I can't say that I wanted to disobey orders. As much as I wanted to go out and mercy-kill the pack of rabid wolves that ran around the village this morning, I had to suck it up. I was in no position to complain. After all, if the commander wants me to be sentinel, I might as well comply.

These thoughts ran by me as I quickly wolfed down what was supposed to be my lunch. I was out in a trance, and my comrades just stared at me with confused and, others, worried looks. Even I didn't realize that I had already sat at the mess hall by the time my senses returned to me. "What...?" I mumbled. They didn't respond and instead went back and focused on their meals.

Perhaps the heat was taking a toll on my mind today...

As I left the mess hall alone, a shadow had been cast at the entrance of the hall. I looked up, and I was greeted by the sight of a worn down rune chariot staring back at my face. It had the chassis of a kingdom rune chariot, but it had lacked the gleam that was supposed to show nobility. The once velvet coating around the carriage was now a disgusting grimy color. The golden rims that ran along the sides had faded. The carriage itself floated above the ground as the crystals that acted as the wheels glowed a bright pink. To top it all off, a dented bronze plaque that was hammered above the windshield with rusted nails to show the name of the owner: Augustinus.

Whoever was the owner of this rune chariot, I felt kind of bad for them. But, whatever the case may be, a rune chariot was still a rune chariot. If it still works, it still works. Besides, I wasn't raised to be picky, either. I didn't have the privilege to choose, after all.

I walked around the carriage as I headed toward the barracks. But before I could even think about doing anything else, I caught a glimpse of a speeding kalta as I glanced toward the main entrance. As I realized what it meant, I was frozen to the ground as the sentinel after my shift announced what happened with a booming voice that allowed everyone in the outpost to hear him. "RUNAWAY KALTA MANNING THREE SUSPICIOUS PERSONS! KALTA RAN AS SOON AS IT WAS STOPPED FOR INSPECTION!"

As soon as he finished the announcement, the door to the commander's office had burst open by Commander Lucien herself as she ran outside whilst dragging a person with her. The man she was dragging along the ground had a slick mustache, wore a worn down set of golden armor with a puffy neck brace. He seems to be an officer, if one could call him that anyway.

"Lieutenant Augustinus, I suppose you will let me use your rune chariot?" Commander Lucien asked the poor lieutenant she was holding by his neck brace. The commander herself was in no mood for flirting. She wore an annoyed expression with an air of seriousness whilst holding the man with a firm grip.

As soon as he understood what she meant, he struggled to break free from her, before letting out a defeated sigh. "Alright! Alright! ALRIGHT! But please! I'm begging you! Don't damage it, please!" he pleaded to her before letting him go, allowing him to fall face first unto the dirt. All Commander Lucien could do was pout while crossing her arms. "I wish you men would put more trust in us women..."

Commander Lucien turned to me and it was at that moment that her eyes met with my gaze. "Ah, Private Von Zayne, perfect timing~" She then walked up to me, grabbed my right wrist and dragged me along with her. "Come..." Fortunately, she wasn't too forceful with her pull, allowing me to walk in pace with her. I tried breaking free, but she wasn't keen on letting me go. "Uh... Commander?" I asked her. "Hm?" she muttered as she picked up the pace, not even giving me a quick glance. I noticed that we were already approaching the rune chariot. "What are going to do...?" "We're going to chase..." she answered as she opened the door of the chariot. "Now, get in!" I climbed as soon as she ordered me to.

As dirty as the outside was, the inside was quite alright. At least the inside looked nice since the outside was an absolute mess. But I could only spend five seconds admiring the interior before Commander Lucien ordered me to move over to the right side behind the controls. For an ordinary person like me, the appearance of the main controls of the chariot was enough to make me confused as to what to even do. However, one thing was for sure: my eyes were fixed on the large circular crystalline floating in the middle of the panel.

I felt the commander sit beside me in front of the crystalline. "Let's hope this thing works well. I don't want my nails to break from this..." I heard her mutter out loud as she placed both her hands on the crystalline. As she did, it shone a bright white light. Then, I felt the rune chariot spring to life. I felt my lips form a big smile as I realized that this was the first time I'd be riding in a rune chariot.

However, looking at Commander Lucien, the smile had faded as soon as it formed. She was struggling with something; she wore a stern expression, her body shaking. The rune chariot was itself was shaking, too. "This is taking more from me than I expected..." she let out a pained yelp. The rumbling chariot fell to the ground. The crash was heavy enough to throw both me and the commander off of our seats.

As soon as I was able to move around again, I felt her body leaning against mine. "Commander!?" I cried out. I tried lifting her up for her to sit down, but she remained limp. Her eyes were still closed as I allowed her to rest beside me. It seems that the chariot itself drained all of her strength. "I'm sorry..." she whispered.

It seems like I had to operate this thing in her stead.

With no time to waste, I gently moved her aside, still allowing her head to rest on my left shoulder afterward. I fixed myself on the spot as I faced the crystalline in front of me. I gulped as my hands hesitated to place themselves on top of it.

If an experience sorcerer like her was struggling operating this wagon, how could someone like me stand a chance? But, a part of me wanted none of these thoughts. "No..." I said to myself out loud. I didn't have a choice.

There was still people to stop...

The last traces of hesitation left my body as I placed both my hands firmly on the crystalline. I surge of power suddenly went through me. The gem itself was now glowing a bright white like before, but the rune chariot didn't move.

"Move..." I thought to myself. Then, the chariot obeyed me as it launched itself backwards.

"Move, but slowly..." I thought again. The chariot was now turning toward the outpost entrance.

But before I could even grasp the thrill of controlling this machine, pain had greeted me. I looked at my right arm. Dark energies were swirling around my arm. Then, the crystalline glowed a dark red light before the chariot itself fell to the ground once more, motionless

"NO!" I yelled in my mind. As my mind shouted curses of frustration, the dark energies that swirled around my arm began to enter the crystalline. As it did, the dark red light had slowly faded by the second until it had the same white light. Of course, the pain was still there, and I felt my right arm muscle screaming at me at the sheer intensity of it that I couldn't even feel the cold sweat that was now trickling down my face. But, I couldn't give up here. I shouldn't. I held the crystalline tighter as I readied my thoughts.

I wasted enough time as it is...

"MOVE!" my mind ordered as the chariot, sprung into life and charged forwards. Now, I found myself outside the outpost and was now following the main road toward Corona. It all happened too quickly, and panic soon overcame me as I realized that I was already controlling the chariot with my thoughts alone. But, the panic was soon replaced with joy, and the joy was now replaced with thrill.

Though I could not feel it, the roaring wind that was hitting the windshield was busy burying the sounds of the outside. I regained my composure, reorienting my thoughts to focus on the task at hand. I felt the commander's soft breathing on me, but I didn't let it faze me at the slightest.

I knew that, at this speed, we were sure to catch up with the rogue kalta. Corona was still far from here, and I doubt that the kalta would be able to reach the village even when we were delayed in giving them a chase.

My thoughts were soon proven correct as I saw the sight of a running kalta in front of me. Luckily, it was also the same time when Commander Lucien awoke from her nap. "Private...?" she squinted at me whilst rubbing her eyes. It was clear that she enjoyed her cute little nap. After all, she told me herself that a lady needs her beauty sleep.

"Good morning, Commander Lucien!" I said nonchalantly as I egged the chariot to go even faster. "We are currently chasing a kalta, and, if you would do me the honor, I would like your assistance in taking this rogue beast down." The commander looked at me with utmost suspicion. But once she had seen my hands firmly gripping the crystalline that controls the chariot, she simply giggled at that realization. "Okay, handsome, if you insist~" I heard a loud pop beside me. I then turned my head to look, but she was already gone.

I looked back at the road. My eyes went wide as I realized what was in front of me.

The kalta had already stopped.

Fear had already filled the entirety of my soul at that point. It was only mere seconds until impact before my mind had already screamed the word "STOP" over and over again. The rune chariot had obeyed, but it didn't stop immediately. All I could've done was hold on for my dear life as it inched forward. Then, silence came and the rune chariot was finally idle.

I quickly and desperately climbed out of the machine to catch my breath. I knew for a fact that it was going to be a while before I would do that again. I don't know if it was in the heat of the moment what I had decided to avoid doing, but it sure involved something about speed.

Despite that traumatizing experience, however, I do have to admit that using a rune chariot was quite nice. I wouldn't mind having my own, one day...

I heard a loud groan, presumably in pain, from a man just behind the kalta. I immediately shook my head and ran up to the immobile beast, almost forgetting what I went out here to do. Unsheathing my sword, I assumed a stance as I approached behind it, only to find all three hooded men already tied up thanks to Commander Lucien.

"You're just in time, private." she said while wearing a playful smirk. The men at her feet could only growl, feeling frustrated at their state of helplessness in their current situation. Commander Lucien leaned to right, glancing behind the kalta. She immediately flinched with joy as her eyes were fixed on the rune chariot. "Oh! And you actually managed to get Lieutenant Augustinus' chariot in one piece~" I nodded as I made my way to the three men. I knelt down beside them and pulled down their hoods.

I recognized none of these men.

Just to be safe, I stood up and raised my sword to them. Of course, they were already harmless, I just wanted to warn them not to do anything funny. Meanwhile, Commander Lucien was already examining their cargo. "Hmm... Interesting~" she said as she pulled out pouch after pouch in all of their bags. "What is it, commander?" I added after a while. The pouches never seemed to end, they all just kept piling on in one place. "Powdered Voidstone..." she said, holding out another pouch in front of her.

"Hold your nose, private." she ordered as she unfurled one of the ties on the pouch. Once I had a firm pinch on my nose, the commander opened the pouch. Inside of it was black powder that shimmered in the sunlight. The scent coming out of it was so thick, it had actually made my eyes tear up. Noticing that I was already turning pink, she had closed the pouch and threw it onto the nearby pile. I finally let go of my nose as my body was practically begging for air.

Grasping for air, the commander spoke once again, "It seems we have a pitiful bunch of smugglers here~" she said as I turned to them as well. They could only bow down to avoid looking at our faces. "It's a shame, really. They are pretty cute..." Commander Lucien could only pout as she pulled out another bundle of ropes from thin air.

However, I had some other ideas in mind...

"Who ordered you to smuggle these things in?" I asked them in a serious voice, pointing my sword to them one by one. I could feel the commander's questionable expression from outside my vision, but I ignored it. "What would it matter?" growled one of them. "You'd just make it worse for us!" I do have to admit, he does have a point. But, I wasn't backing down any time soon. "That may be true..." I continued as I sheathed my sword. "Or..." "Or what?"

I could only smile at this. "Or if you tell us, we might consider decreasing the severity of your punishments." Then, I felt a sharp gaze pierce my sides. I turned to my left and only saw Commander Lucien looking at me with narrowed eyes. "Private Von Zayne!" she spoke up as she walked up to me. "You do not have the authority to do such a thing!"

Realizing this, I backed away in silence. "Right..." I mumbled. "My mistake, commander..." She only sighed loudly as she took out a glass bottle. This time, it had blue liquid inside it. She shook the bottle for two seconds before splashing the contents on the three men, drenching their clothes in potion. With a snap of her fingers, all three of them were now floating in the air. Then, she clapped twice, and they were slowly drifting towards the rune chariot.

Commander Lucien began walking back toward the rune chariot, leaving me with the kalta which was staring at me with its beady eyes. A shiver was sent down my spine. I quickly caught up to her. "I'm sorry about what I said, commander. I shouldn't have done that..." I apologized before thinking about doing anything else.

I was beginning to fear that I was pushing my luck. The look in her eyes earlier when she woke up from her nap already told me that what I was doing was disobedience. Now, what I've just shown her was plain arrogance.

I really should've have said all those things.

Silence had only greeted my apology as Commander Lucien had stopped in her tracks. For a moment, I thought that I was going to get reprimanded for my actions. However, once the three culprits were safely in the chariot, out of sight, she merely let out a tired groan.

"Regardless, your efforts today were astonishing for a rookie..." she muttered as she turned toward me. "It's alright, I forgive you. Besides, how can I forgive someone this cute and hardworking, hmm~?" she threw me a playful smirk before climbing back inside the chariot.

I simply don't know if she chooses to overlook my mistakes. Regardless though, I was glad that I was off the hook.

For now...

Σ-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-

Two months had passed since my chase against a smuggler kalta. It was now the 15th of Fire Month and to no one's surprise but my own, things didn't change much at all in the Acies Outpost. However, I only spent six days before fully embracing the daily routines here. Soon enough, I was becoming the most hardworking soldier out of everyone in the outpost. Much to Commander Lucien's delight.

Even though void season is just right around the corner, the pain was absent for the most part, and I was happy about that. At least I didn't need to worry about waking up drenched in cold sweat every morning.

Still, I had my fair share of boring night patrols and life threatening extermination missions, but life here had become the norm for me. At the very least, I was really happy about how things went about here. I had almost forgotten that I was merely a prairie boy just four months ago.

Time flies fast, and it soars...

As I was finishing up on my laundry for today, the Sun was already setting and I was mentally preparing for a relaxing night ahead of me.

However, a surprising sight had come rearing itself in the late afternoon.

A shining rune chariot had appeared and was entering the outpost. This, of course, had caught everyone's attention, including mine obviously. This was a different rune chariot. It was shining, akin to sunlight, and it wasn't afraid to show off it's radiance. It was maintained perfectly; it's crystal wheels were glimmering fearlessly, and the chassis was undoubtedly beautiful. To top it all off, it didn't have the bronze plaque that was pathetically nailed atop the windshield. Instead, there was a golden plaque that had the inscription of the Kingdom's royal family name: Carlos

Commander Lucien had already stepped outside to greet the person manning the beautiful chariot. The chariot door swung open, and it was clear from everyone's expression that they were expecting someone important to come out those doors.

Through those doors, out came Colonel Levon.

My body moved on its own, somehow. I didn't want to trouble myself with things that don't involve me, but I wanted a hear in this conversation.

"Commander Lucien, I assume you read the memo?" he asked her like one would to an old friend. Commander Lucien merely shrugged at this and smiled proudly. "Of course, but why here in Acies? There must be someone back at the Capitol, right~?" The colonel could only let out a hearty laugh. "That may be true, but there is someone here that's fit for the job. I already have the approval of His Regent Theodore." "Alright~ Tell me, who is it?"

Colonel Levon didn't answer her immediately and instead looked around until his eyes had fallen on me. Commander Lucien followed his gaze until she, as well, had her eyes on me. "Private Von Zayne...?" she asked him, the look on her face had become worrisome. Colonel Levon nodded slowly. Commander Lucien could only allow herself to agree on the colonel's decision.

I had decided to put down my basket of laundry as both of them walked toward me. I gave them a salute before standing at ease. "Good afternoon, commander..." I nodded to her. "...colonel." then at him. They both nodded back. "My apologies for disturbing you today..." the colonel had started, but I merely shook my head with a smile. "No, it's quite alright, colonel." he answered with a nod before continuing.

"I am here to inform you that you will be changing posts." the colonel said. I could only raise my eyebrow at this. Change outposts? That soon? Instead of arguing, I nodded with a solemn expression. "I understand. But I have a question..."

"Go ahead, private."

"Which outpost will be working in? And where?" the colonel smiled at me before shaking his head. "No, not an outpost."

"Huh? I'm sorry, I don't..."

"I think it's better for me to explain on the way than telling you now. Go and pack your belongings. I'll wait for you here..." Colonel Levon said with a warm smile and a small nod.

I could only stand there, mumbling a silent, "Huh?" before turning around, carrying my laundry basket back into the barracks.